South Africa: Treasury, Presidency working on plan to reduce poverty gap

The National Treasury is working with the Presidency and the Department of Social Development to tackle the poverty gap, and this will include looking at an alternative for the R350 SRD grant, says Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana.

Godongwana said this when Ministers in the Economics Cluster responded to questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday.

The National Treasury is working with the Presidency and the Department of Social Development and other partners to consider various options for reducing the national poverty gap.

This includes considering of what might replace the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant. However, all options also need to be considered with respect to their availability as well as their fiscal and revenue implications before a final decision can be made, he said.

He said that in terms of achieving sustainable relief for vulnerable households, the baseline budget for a social assistance grant is about R205 billion for 2022 to 2023.

The social wage comprising of a range of government interventions including social services, free basic service and others is around 60% of non-interest spending. This is about R1.5 trillion per annum.

Treasury to announce economic reforms in medium term budget

Meanwhile, National Treasury will use the November Medium Term Budget Policy Statement (MTBPS) to announce economic reforms that form part of the economic reconstruction and recovery plan.

What we are going to require to structure and change and make sure this economy can recover is mobilize all of South Africans to work together to ensure that this economy is brought into a better performance.

To unlock the growth potential of the economy, our focus will be as National Treasury, accelerating the implementation of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan because we are working on the basis that government as a collective has agreed on a plan.

Focus on growth and job-creating structural reforms; maintaining fiscal sustainability, which in our view, includes effectiveness and efficiency of spending with a greater emphasis on capital expenditure than on consumption expenditure, I think we will be dealing with this matter in detail in the MTBPS, he said.

Godongwana also said government would also focus on strengthening the capacity of the state.

Recent announcements, which demonstrate governments commitment to accelerate the implementation of structural reform to support growth include among others, moving with speed to deal with bottlenecks blocking the release of spectrum, he said. SAnews.gov.za

This story has been published on: 2021-09-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
South Africa: SA crosses 14 million mark for COVID-19 jabs

South Africa has now administered over 14 million COVID-19 jabs, with more than six million people fully vaccinated as of 8 September 2021.

According to the latest data by the Department of Health, the country administered 217 613 vaccines on Wednesday.

This means there are now 14 126 008 administered vaccines, translating to 10 359 616 people who have either received a shot of the Johnson & Johnson or Pfizer, of which 42% are men and 57.75% are women.

In addition, the number of adults that have been fully vaccinated stands at 6 888 163. Of these, 127 651 people were fully jabbed in the past 24 hours.

Meanwhile, National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said there are 7 338 people who tested positive in the last 24 hours, bringing the total number of laboratory-confirmed cases to 2 836 773.

According to the NICD, this increase represents a 13.3% positivity rate.

However, the public health institute, noted that the current surge in COVID-19 infections seems to be showing signs of a sustained downward trend.

Although the total number of cases today is higher than yesterday and higher than the average number of new cases per day over the previous seven days, the number of new cases and positivity rate have decreased nationally compared to last week, the NICD Acting Executive Director, Professor Adrian Puren, said on Wednesday.

While there have been provincial disparities in the timing and extent of the third resurgence, Puren said all nine provinces are currently displaying a drop in daily new cases.

The provinces of Gauteng and Limpopo have already met the end-of-wave threshold criteria.

While the latest trends certainly provide some good news, Public Health Surveillance and Response Head, Dr Michelle Groome, cautions that now is not the time for complacency.

She added that wearing masks, hand hygiene and social distancing remain important measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, the number of hospitalisations and deaths have also decreased compared to last week, while 253 more people lost their lives, pushing the death toll to 84 152.

According to Groome, high vaccine coverage is essential to limit the impact of the virus on the lives and livelihoods in the coming months.

We all have a part to play by getting vaccinated and encouraging our family, friends and colleagues to do the same, appealed Groome.

The information is based on the 16 878 061 tests, of which were 55 355 performed since the last reporting cycle.

Globally, as of 8 September 2021, there have been 221 648 869 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 4 582 338 deaths, reported to the World Health Organisation.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Corruption a stumbling block to an improved public service

Public Service Commissioner Michael Seloane says that corruption still remains widespread in the public service.

He was speaking at the release of the commissions Quarterly Bulletin titled: The Pulse of the Public Service for the first quarter of the financial year.

The commissioner said one of the biggest challenges breeding a culture of corruption in the public service is employees who conduct business with the state.

South Africa continues to face the challenge of widespread corruption within its public service. Corruption scandals are precipitated by shady, widespread public sector patronage, crony capitalism, abuse of power and abuse of authority, corruption and unprofessional behaviour in government. [P]ublic servants who conduct business with the statein many instances, service delivery is affected negatively because companies that are appointed to render services are not given on the basis of merit but are given to people that have close proximity to power, he said.

Seloane said while collecting data for the quarterly bulletin, the commission found that employees who were alleged to have been involved in irregularities or corrupt activities complained that they were pressured to do so through instructions from senior managers and executive authorities.

Employees are often too afraid to defy unlawful instructions and, in many cases, bear the brunt of unlawful conduct while the executive authorities and senior managers who issued the unlawful instructions claim ignorance and/or go scot free, he said.

The commissioner warned, however, that lower ranking public servants still have the responsibility to report any wrongdoing to law enforcement authorities.

There are several Acts and Laws applicable in the public service which place a duty on an employee to abide by the legislative framework and to report irregularities to a higher authority. Public servants are urged to ensure that irregularities and unlawful instructions are reported to the relevant authorities as required by the legislative framework, Seloane said.

He highlighted the importance of ethical leadership in government.

It is imperative to ensure that all instructions to public servants are within the parameters of the law. Through ethical leadership, we will be able to influence a positive culture change and improve the image of the government. Leaders need to demonstrate ethical leadership by making ethical decisions and taking disciplinary actions, he said.

Non-payment of supplier invoices

Seloane urged the national Treasury to take action against national and provincial departments that repeatedly do not pay their suppliers within the stipulated time frame as this has a detrimental effect on businesses.

National departments accounted for 481 unpaid invoices with a cost of at least R491 million.

The PSC is concerned with the lack of reporting on the consequences management approach adopted by the National Treasury to deal with the repeat default in departments and provinces. The realityis that the non-payment of suppliersnegatively impacts the operations of suppliers, with many becoming bankrupt, and thus being counterproductive to government's job creation problem, he said.

The commissioner said these invoices were mainly from the departments of Public Works and Infrastructure and its property management entity, Water and Sanitation, Mineral Resources and Energy and Home Affairs.

Of concernis that some departments are still not submitting the required exception reports to the national treasury. Despite this being a compliance requirement, non-submission of these reports violates paragraph 4.6 of national treasury instruction notewhich stipulates that such information should be submitted within seven days. This shows a serious disregard for accountability in the departments in these departments [and] no measures are in place to deal with this disregard of accountability by departments, he said.

Provincially, the Eastern Cape, Gauteng, North West, Northern Cape and Free State led the way in non-payment.

Whilst the Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng and North West are known repeat defaulting provinces, the Northern Cape is for the first time showing such a high number of invoices not paidwith the related cost of R 195 109 935, he said.

The PSC said that it has recommended that compliance oversight for payment of suppliers be included in the performance contracts of ministers and MECs.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Equitable access to vaccines is key to fight COVID-19

President Cyril Ramaphosa has once again put the spotlight on the equitable access to COVID-19 life-saving vaccines, as poorer countries continue to battle with obtaining the much-needed jabs.

In his opening remarks during the virtual 13th BRICS Summit on Thursday, President Ramaphosa called on the five emerging countries to safeguard people's lives and livelihoods through safe, fast and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines for all.

We must also ensure equal access to COVID-19 vaccine, diagnostics, as well as therapeutics because that is the only way in which we can collectively respond to this pandemic that engulfs the world.

He also urged Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) to contribute their fair share to the Access to COVID-19 Tools Accelerator and support the waiver of COVID-19 vaccine patents.

South Africa and India have been leading the race in having intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines waived for developing countries to fast track the access to jabs, now backed by over 100 nations.

We welcome the decision of our Ministers of Health to operationalise a virtual BRICS Vaccine Research and Development Centre, he told the members.

In addition, he said BRICS countries should remain steadfast in continuing to support the global economic recovery and enhance the resilience of all public systems.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on human life, livelihoods, economies and communities around the world, he said in his prepared speech.

As much as we have known sorrow and hardship, we have also known solidarity and cooperation. Our collective response has demonstrated what can be achieved when we work together.

He believes that BRICS cooperation has been orientated towards concrete responses to the pandemic.

President Ramaphosa has also called on BRICS to be equally bold and determined in seeking reform of the United Nations Security Council to enable Africa to take its rightful place among the collective of nations in this crucial body.

We are now in the final decade towards meeting the Sustainable Development Goals.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsanaro, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping also attended the meeting, while Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the summit for the second time.

President Ramaphosa encouraged member States to remain focused on the attainment of better health outcomes, as they also pursue quality education, decent work, climate action, peace and justice.

Lastly, we must strengthen our cooperation, deepen our partnership and actively strive towards a world of better health, better opportunity and shared prosperity for all.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi thanked all the members for their full cooperation during its Chairship of BRICS.  SAnews.gov.za

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Hong Kong: CS backs Qianhai, Hengqin plans

Chief Secretary John Lee attended a press conference online organised by the State Council Information Office today on the development of Hengqin and Qianhai.

Mr Lee, together with officials from the central government, Guangdong and Macau, introduced the latest developments of Hengqin and Qianhai areas and the opportunities brought about by the plans with a view to taking forward together the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

During the conference, Mr Lee said that with the support of the central government, the governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Shenzhen have all along been striving to elevate the development of Qianhai and assist professional businesses in Hong Kong to settle in the area.

He said Hong Kong will make good use of the advantages of one country, two systems and participate in steering the development of modern service industries in Qianhai, and leverage Hong Kong's competitive edge as an international financial, maritime and trade centre as well as an international aviation hub, thereby expanding the room for development for Hong Kong's professional services.

Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation is set to scale new heights with the central government's promulgation of the Plan for Comprehensive Deepening Reform & Opening Up of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Co-operation Zone. Hong Kong and Shenzhen will leverage their advantages as core cities of the bay area and strengthen the knock-on effect in the development of the region.

Mr Lee noted that Hong Kong's business and professional sectors are well prepared for the new opportunities for Hong Kong people and enterprises arising from the Qianhai plan.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to strengthen collaboration with the Guangdong Provincial Government and the Shenzhen Municipal Government, taking forward the development of Qianhai and creating broader room for development, he said.

In his response to questions from the media regarding Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation, Mr Lee pointed out that more than 40 years of co-operation under the national policy of reform and opening up has created a unique tale of the two cities, which fully demonstrates the complementary and win-win relationship that leverages Hong Kong's advantages in serving the country's needs.

The promulgation of the Qianhai plan will foster Hong Kong-Shenzhen co-operation at a higher level under which the two cities can serve as dual engines to drive development in the bay area, he added.

As for financial co-operation, Mr Lee indicated that the Qianhai plan mentions in particular the further opening up of the financial industry, including the adoption of early and pilot implementation in various areas such as mutual access between the financial markets of Hong Kong and the Mainland, cross-boundary use of renminbi and facilitation of foreign exchange management.

It also mentions the promotion of green finance co-operation between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, exploration of constructing a set of green finance standards, and provision of services to Mainland businesses when they leverage on markets in Hong Kong and Macau to finance their green projects.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to strengthen collaboration with the Shenzhen Municipal Government in terms of financial services and contribute positively to the bay area and our country.

Regarding youth development, Mr Lee explained that the Hong Kong SAR Government welcomes the Qianhai plan's specific mention of the facilitation provided for the young people in Hong Kong and Macau to study, work, reside, live and start businesses in the Qianhai co-operation zone.

The Qianhai area will be able to provide premium development opportunities for Hong Kong's youth, while the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to enhance various youth programmes to facilitate their integration into the overall development of our country.

The central government's promulgation of the Qianhai plan and the Plan for the Development of the Guangdong-Macao Intensive Co-operation Zone in Hengqin demonstrates the country's key strategic planning, under which the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area would enrich the implementation of one country, two systems with a view to enhancing Hong Kong's integration into the overall national development.

This story has been published on: 2021-09-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
Hong Kong: CE visits school's citizenship class

Chief Executive Carrie Lam visited Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Lui Yun Choy Memorial College in Tseung Kwan O today to join a citizenship and social development class and hear student views on the upcoming Policy Address.

Mrs Lam was also briefed on the school's science, technology, engineering and mathematics education curriculum and viewed a display of teaching materials including robotics, augmented reality and 3D printing technology.

She then took part in a Secondary 4 students citizenship and social development class where she learnt more about the teaching of the first theme under the subject, Hong Kong under one country, two systems and the position and duties of the Chief Executive.

At the teachers invitation, Mrs Lam explained to the class Hong Kongs unique advantages under one country, two systems, the organic integration of the central authorities overall jurisdiction over the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the citys high degree of autonomy, as well as the constitutional arrangement of the dual responsibility of the Chief Executive to both the Central Peoples Government and the Hong Kong SAR.

Mrs Lam said: The citizenship and social development subject, which has become a senior secondary core subject this year, allows students to build a broad knowledge base and cultivate positive values by learning issues about Hong Kong, the country and the contemporary world, and to become a new generation with a sense of social responsibility and national identity, an affection for Hong Kong and an international perspective.

The Education Bureau will continue to provide relevant support to schools.

The Chief Executive then attended a session with students on the upcoming Policy Address. Assembling 60 of the school's senior secondary students and about 1,000 students from 17 other Tung Wah Group of Hospitals schools through video conferencing, more than 10 pupils voiced their views in the hour-long exchange which covered education, youth development, environmental protection and more. The students also discussed heritage conservation and development of art and culture.

To be delivered on October 6, the Policy Address will map out Hong Kongs future developments and integration into the national development with a long-term vision, Mrs Lam noted. It will also offer proposals on land and housing as well as long-term infrastructure development.

This story has been published on: 2021-09-09. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
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Australia funds digitally transformative tech projects in Vietnam

The Australian Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology of Vietnam announced on Thursday the award of grants totalling nearly AUD 1.4 million to four high-tech projects through the Aus4Innovation Program.

The four projects, selected from nearly 70 applicants who responded to the call for proposals from Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants Round 3  Enhancing Digital Transformation  will be implemented through well-established partnerships between leading universities in both Australia and Vietnam, together with industry partners and local government agencies.



The first project is "Augmented reality to improve access to healthcare in remote areas" - an initiative to employ augmented reality technology to improve the effectiveness of remote tele-mentorship between experts in urban centres and less-experienced healthcare staff in remote areas. Ultimately supporting better outcomes for urgent and complex patient cases, the project will be delivered through a partnership between the University of Tasmania and Bach Mai Hospital (AUD 387,245).

"Smart Eye to improve sugar industry productivity" is the second project which develops a system incorporating drone technology and artificial intelligence of things (AIoT) to allow local farmers in Thanh Hoa province to monitor the nutrition levels and disease prevalence in sugarcane fields, thereby improving productivity and reducing production costs. The grant will be delivered through the University of Wollongong and VIGREEN, a tech start-up (AUD 300,000).





"AI/IoT Technology to enhance search and rescue capacity" is the third project that aims to enhance search and rescue operations in Vietnam during natural disasters by using the latest digital transformation technologies, including aerial vehicles (UAVs), artificial intelligence (AI) and remote sensing technology. The initiative will be delivered collaboratively by the University of Technology Sydney and Le Quy Don Technical University (AUD 440,000).



The last project, "AI-powered dashboard for environment ecosystem management", is an initiative that brings together leading experts in artificial intelligence, machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), environmental engineering and conservation biology to transform the environmental management of Tram Chim National Park. Work will be led by the University of Wollongong and Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (AUD 250,000).

Adapting the most advanced technologies developed and tested in Australia, these projects are expected to deliver practical values to the innovation ecosystem and create lasting socio-economic impact in Vietnam.



Congratulating the winners, H.E. Ms Robyn Mudie, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam said: Building on the success of previous Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants, were delighted to continue supporting initiatives that address Vietnams most pressing socio-economic growth challenges. International collaboration in emerging areas of science and technology, like AI and IoT, will be especially important as the country recovers from COVID-19. The healthcare, natural disaster management, sustainable agriculture and nature conservation sectors all provide opportunities for widespread digital transformation that will have a lasting positive impact.



This pandemic is reminding us that digital transformation is essential for future social and economic development. The projects selected for funding are not only practical in how advanced technologies are applied in areas of critical need in Vietnam, but they are also very meaningful in todays context. We look forward to embracing these state-of-the-art technologies into our innovation system, and the positive spill over that they will facilitate here in Vietnam. Vice Minister Bui The Duy from the Ministry of Science and Technology added.



Aus4Innovation Partnership Grants delivered funding rounds in 2019 and 2020, providing support for eight high-tech projects. This third round was approved by the Australian Government in response to COVID-19 and supports Vietnams sustainable recovery from the pandemic. Information about projects funded in the three rounds can be found on the Aus4Innovation website.


Integration of technologies and culture captures visitors hearts at 2021 CIFTIS

People's Daily Online) 16:21, September 08, 2021

Exhibits that integrate technologies with traditional culture are capturing the hearts of many visitors at the 2021 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing, offering more channels for audiences to better appreciate Chinese cultural items.

People visit the digital Palace Museum experience area at the 2021 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) in Beijing on Sept. 7, 2021. (Photo/Xinhua)

Digital technologies and high-precision 3D data collection have brought some national treasures housed by the Palace Museum closer to visitors. At the digital Palace Museum experience area, visitors can appreciate cultural relics based on the digital resources displayed on screens. For instance, visitors can learn about every detail of the digital version of the museums Emperor Taizong Receiving the Tibetan Envoy, a painting on silk by Yan Liben that shows a friendly encounter between the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and Tibet.

At Epson China's exhibition booth, a large screen showcases the charm of Dunhuang Grottoes in northwest China's Gansu province via an advanced projector developed by the company.

Cultural and creative products related to the Age of Awakening, a critically-acclaimed TV drama in 2021 which tells the story of the founding of the Communist Party of China, are also on display.

Moreover, the CIFTIS set up an exhibition area for the integration of culture and technologies, where the audience can enjoy the magnificence of Chinese culture thanks to the application of a series of technologies, such as virtual reality and naked-eye 3D display technology.

Integrating technologies with culture has become a new trend in the modern service trade and among the younger generation. As Chinas overall national strength has grown considerably, the countrys people have gained a stronger sense of their own cultural identity. CIFTIS will not only showcase Chinas cultural and scientific achievements, but also facilitate exchanges among different cultures and bring cultures of different countries to China.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Chinese FM attends first meeting of FMs from Afghanistan's neighbors

Xinhua) 08:17, September 09, 2021

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attends the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries via video link in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 8, 2021. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday attended the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries in Beijing via video link.

Noting that Afghanistan is now standing at the crossroads of history, Wang said that the country is still facing severe challenges, such as humanitarian issues, people's livelihoods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Some international forces may also use political, economic and financial means to create new troubles for Afghanistan.

The neighboring countries, more than anyone else, want to help Afghanistan get out of chaos, he said. They should exert a positive influence on the situation development on the basis of respecting the sovereign independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan.

Wang stressed that the United States and its allies should learn profound lessons and assume their due responsibilities on the Afghan issue.

"The common view of the international community is that the end of military intervention by the United States and its allies should be the beginning of them assuming their responsibilities," Wang said.

"They are more obligated than any other country to provide economic, livelihood and humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, and help Afghanistan maintain stability, prevent chaos and move toward sound development on the premise of respecting the sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan."

He said the neighbors should guide and urge the Afghan Taliban to unite with all ethnic groups and factions, build a broad and inclusive political structure, pursue moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, draw a clear line with terrorist forces, and establish and develop friendly relations with other countries, especially neighboring countries.

The Taliban has recently made positive statements on issues such as forming a government, fighting terrorism and making friends with its neighbors. "We welcome the statements and the key is to transform them into concrete action," he said, adding the two most important points are broad inclusiveness and resolute crackdown on terrorism.

Afghanistan's neighbors should play a unique role in providing a good external environment for Afghanistan's stability and reconstruction and meanwhile addressing their own legitimate concerns, Wang said.

He proposed six aspects for coordination and cooperation at the current stage, including helping Afghanistan strengthen epidemic prevention and control, keeping port gates open, strengthening management of refugees and emigrants, providing humanitarian assistance as soon as possible, deepening anti-terrorism cooperation and carrying out anti-drug cooperation.

Wang announced that China has decided to urgently provide 200 million yuan (30.96 million U.S. dollars) worth of grain, winter supplies, vaccines and medicines to Afghanistan, according to the needs of the Afghan people.

He said that China has decided to donate 3 million vaccine doses to the Afghan people in the first batch. China is also ready to provide more anti-epidemic and emergency materials to Afghanistan under the China-South Asian Countries Emergency Supplies Reserve.

Participants positively evaluated a series of consensuses reached at the meeting and agreed to institutionalize the meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries.

The first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries was chaired by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Also attending the meeting were Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov and Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Vepa Khadzhiev.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Du Mingming)
China's opening-up policy will not waver at any time: FM spokesperson

Xinhua) 08:21, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Opening-up is China's basic national policy that will never waver, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Wang Wenbin made the remarks in response to a question on the remarks by some people in the United States concerning Chinese government's efforts to strengthen market regulations.

The Chinese government has stepped up efforts in anti-monopoly oversight and investigated and punished acts of unfair competition to maintain orderly and fair competition in the market, Wang said, adding that such move is in line with relevant laws and regulations and is the common practice of managing economic activities in many countries.

"It is fundamentally conducive to the fair, orderly, and sustainable growth and development of the Chinese economy, and is good to the world economy in the long run. Chinese and foreign investors, business operators, and consumers will eventually benefit from it," he said.

Opening-up is China's basic national policy that will never waver, Wang said, adding that as a matter of fact, China is making ever greater strides in opening-up at a high level.

China has announced it will implement across the country a negative list for cross-border services trade and support Beijing and other localities in piloting the alignment of domestic rules with high-standard international free trade rules. The State Council issued measures to promote trade and investment facilitation and deepen reform and innovation in pilot free trade zones, in an effort to enable trade, investment, international logistics and the financial sector to better serve the real economy.

"China will, as always, provide better safeguards for foreign investors to do business in China. We will work with other parties to uphold openness and cooperation for mutual benefit, share development opportunities and jointly promote world economic recovery and growth," Wang said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China-US green cooperation set to progress amid twists

Global Times) 08:28, September 09, 2021

US urged to stop hostility toward China, avoiding politicizing climate issue

China and the US are making a somewhat bumpy journey toward climate cooperation, with Chinese officials and experts still calling for partnership between the two countries to tackle climate change, but urged the US to change its hostile attitude toward China and treat China-US cooperation more sincerely.

They made the call shortly after the two countries' tense relations had spilled over into their climate talks, with a certain US government official blaming China for not doing enough on climate issues, although the blame is more like an unpleasant sound rather than an interruption of the two countries' ongoing climate talks.

Vice Minister of Commerce Wang Shouwen on Wednesday called on China and the US to play an "ensemble" of low-carbon cooperation. He made the comment during the China Provinces-US States Green & Low-carbon Cooperation Seminar and Matchmaking in Xiamen, East China's Fujian Province.

"China and the US share common ground in advancing low-carbon development, and that cooperation will not only serve each other's goal of cutting carbon emissions but also contribute to strengthening bilateral economic and trade cooperation," Wang said.

According to information provided by the Fujian Provincial Department of Commerce,the event, which focuses on enhancing climate cooperation between Chinese provinces and US states, has attracted about 260 local government representatives and businesspeople from the two countries, including representatives from US industrial giants like Dell, DuPont and General Motors.

Officials from several US states including Ohio and Washington also said during the fair that they hope China and the US can carry out more pragmatic cooperation in green areas to cope with climate change challenges together.

The conditions for China-US climate cooperation are becoming increasingly ripe not only as China is going to great lengths to meet its carbon neutrality goals, but as the US has seemingly reemerged on the global stage of climate cooperation, with moves like rejoining the Paris Agreement and US President Joe Biden's reported attendance of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference.

Experts stressed that China will always open its door to cooperation and dialogue in green development, but they criticized the US for showing an "insincere" attitude, placing the two countries' low-carbon partnership, which could be carried out "in any aspects" theoretically, under much uncertainty.

US climate envoy John Kerry reportedly said recently that China can do more in terms of tackling climate change, implying that China's efforts are insufficient as long as it continues to build coal-fired power plants.

"The US has shown hypocrisy and short-sightedness on the issue of climate cooperation with China. It has politicized the climate issue and taken it as a diplomatic tool against China, and yet tried to shift the blame to China," Li Haidong, a professor at the Institute of International Relations at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times.

He Weiwen, a former economic and commercial counselor at the Chinese consulate general in San Francisco and New York, also criticized the US for "finding fault" with China, as blaming China for not doing enough in tackling carbon emissions does not hold water.

"Power generation using coal, petroleum and natural gas accounts for about 60 percent of overall power generation in China and the US. Power generation using recyclable energy accounts for 29 percent in China, compared with the US' 20 percent. But this does not include carbon emissions from California wildfires and wars the US launched," he said.

He also said that compared with the US, the UK shows more sincerity in conducting climate cooperation with China.

Shortly after Kerry wrapped up climate talks with Chinese officials earlier this month, Britain's senior climate change official Alok Sharma also arrived in Tianjin to meet his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua. Sharma was later quoted by Reuters as saying that he "welcomes China's commitment to climate neutrality by 2060 and looks forward to discussing China's policy proposals towards this goal."

General climate

Chinese officials and analysts also stressed that China and the US' climate cooperation can't succeed without an improvement in their general economic and trade relations, urging the US to change their crackdown policies against China in other sectors like high tech and finance.

According to Wang Shouwen, the Vice Minister of Commerce, it will be unable to step up cooperation focused on green development and low-carbon economy without healthy and stable bilateral trade ties. He also noted that the nature of China-US economic and trade relations is mutually benefit and win-win.

His words echoed remarks made by China's State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who warned that antagonism from the US could hobble climate cooperation like desert to an oasis during his talks with Kerry.

Wang Shouwen and Wang Yi made the remarks after Kerry recently pointed out that the climate issue is not a geostrategic weapon, suggesting that the US will work with China on climate change but crack down on other sectors.

Xiao He, an expert from the Institute of World Economics and Politics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that climate cooperation involves a lot of details that could cause controversies, such as clean technology standards and capital flow, and it's very difficult to proceed with such cooperation if the members involved don't trust each other.

"The US should create conditions to alleviate China's burden, as a low-carbon push is already adding economic costs to China," he told the Global Times. "But now they are doing the opposite."

Lin Boqiang, director of the China Center for Energy Economics Research at Xiamen University, also told the Global Times that the premise of China-US green cooperation is that the US should show more sincerity and a cooperative attitude. But their crackdown measures, like starting anti-dumping investigations into Chinese energy exports and concerns about so-called technological theft, are creating obstacles to China-US green partnership.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
"Endless wars" U.S. launched on terror cost much more than 9/11 attacks -- Nye

Xinhua) 08:35, September 09, 2021

Twenty years after 9/11, these are the lessons we should be learning and the plans we should be making.

WASHINGTON, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- While the 9/11 attacks killed several thousand Americans, the "endless wars" that the U.S. launched as part of the global war on terror "cost much more," renowned Harvard University professor Joseph S. Nye has said.

"The damage done by Al-Qaeda pales compared to the damage we did to ourselves," Nye, dean emeritus of Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, told Xinhua in an email interview.

By some estimates, nearly 15,000 American military members and contractors were killed and the economic cost of the wars that followed 9/11 was more than 6 trillion U.S. dollars, Nye said. "Add to this the number of foreign civilians killed and refugees created and the costs were enormous."

"The opportunity costs were also large. When President Barack Obama tried to pivot to Asia -- the fastest growing part of the world economy -- the legacy of the global war on terror kept the U.S. mired in the Middle East," said Nye.

"The problems of terrorism remain" though some say that despite these costs, the United States prevailed in the global war on terror with Bin Laden and many of his top lieutenants killed, and there has not been another major terrorist attack on the U.S. homeland with the scale of 9/11, he noted.

U.S. national flags fly at half-mast at the Washington Monument in commemoration of the 19th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Sept. 11, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

LESSONS FOR U.S.

"Looking forward, when the next terrorist attacks come, will presidents be able to channel public demand for revenge by precise targeting, explaining the trap that terrorists set for us, and focusing on creating resilience in American responses," said Nye.

"Twenty years after 9/11, these are the lessons we should be learning and the plans we should be making," he said.

As a counterfactual history of the past 20 years, imagine what the world would be like if U.S. President George W. Bush had avoided the tempting rallying cry of a global war on terror and responded to 9/11 by carefully selected military strikes combined with good intelligence and diplomacy, said Nye.

Or, if he had gone into Afghanistan, imagine that he had got out after six months, even if that had involved negotiating with the Taliban, he said.

"What 9/11 illustrates is that terrorism is about psychology, not damage," said Nye.

The Tribute in Light art installation is presented to symbolize the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center site in New York, the United States, Sept. 11, 2020. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)

The professor said he believes that "future historians will regard Sept. 11, 2001 as important as Pearl Harbor was on Dec. 7, 1941." The surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor killed some 2,400 American military personnel and destroyed or damaged 19 naval craft including eight battleships.

"In both cases, however, the main effect was on public psychology," said Nye.

"The 9/11 terrorist attacks were a horrific shock to our psyches. Images of victims jumping from towers are indelible, and intrusive security measures disrupted our lives," he said.

For years, President Franklin D. Roosevelt had tried to alert Americans to the Axis threat but failed to overcome isolationism, and all that changed with Pearl Harbor, according to the professor.

In the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush advocated a humble foreign policy and warned against the temptations of nation-building, but after the shock of 9/11, he declared a "Global War on Terror" and invaded both Afghanistan and Iraq, Nye said.

"Given the proclivities of top members of his administration, some say a clash with (then Iraqi President) Saddam Hussein was predictable in any case, but probably not in same manner and level of cost," said Nye.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China to provide emergency aid of 200m yuan, including food, 3 million vaccines to Afghanistan

Global Times) 08:58, September 09, 2021

Neighboring nations to cooperate to arrest, eliminate fleeing terrorists

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi addresses at the first Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the Afghan Issue Among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan. (Photo/Chinese Foreign Ministry)

China and all other five Afghanistan's neighboring countries will work together in handling new challenges caused by the US' hasty pullout from Afghanistan and the latest situation in the country, with China announcing an emergency humanitarian aids including foods, medicines and COVID-19 vaccines on Wednesday after the Afghan Taliban on Tuesday announced key members of its new interim government.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the Foreign Ministers' Meeting on the Afghan issue among the Neighboring Countries of Afghanistan on Wednesday, where he said the future of Afghanistan is still full of uncertainties as the government established by the Taliban is "interim."

Wang said to the foreign ministers from Pakistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan that all Afghanistan's neighbors can cooperate in fields including helping Afghanistan to strengthen COVID-19 epidemic prevention, keeping border ports open, strengthening management and control on refugees, providing humanitarian aid, deepening counterterrorism cooperation and conducting anti-drug operations.

Wang announced that China will provide 3 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine to Afghanistan, as well as emergency humanitarian aid worth 200 million yuan ($31 million) including food, medicines and other materials for winter.

Wang urged the Taliban to take concrete actions to contain and strike terrorists, and called on all parties to strengthen intelligence sharing and border control to arrest and eliminate terrorist groups that flee Afghanistan.

Wang also stressed that the US and its allies should take full obligation to provide economic and humanitarian aids to the Afghan people because they are the creators of the problems in Afghanistan.

What can China do?

China will keep calm and pay close attention to the Taliban's acts in the next steps and will not recognize the interim government immediately, said Pan Guang, a senior expert on counterterrorism and Afghan studies at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, noting that among those announced names in the interim government, many Taliban officials are still on the UN sanctions list. What China can do now is maintain necessary contacts with the Taliban in the fields of normal economic activities and people-to-people exchanges.

According to an Aljazeera report on Monday, an anonymous representative of the Taliban said "We have sent invitations to Turkey, China, Russia, Iran, Pakistan and Qatar to take part in the [ceremony] of announcing [the composition of the new Afghan] government."

Senior Taliban officials and spokespersons have frequently mentioned China in media interviews as they want to stress China is the country that could provide significant economic support, and to use the ongoing China-US tensions to hint or pressure the West that "if you don't build ties with the Taliban pragmatically, China could play a bigger role in the county," said Qiu Wenping, an expert on Afghan studies and counterterrorism at Fudan University.

"China might send representatives to attend the ceremony held by the Taliban to announce its new government but will not recognize it so soon. The Taliban needs to do more to prove that it has cut off ties with terrorist groups, and to show inclusiveness by including more non-Taliban political figures, such as some leaders in the previous government like Hamid Karzai and Abdullah Abdullah," Pan said.

SCO and Afghanistan

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit is scheduled for September 17 in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. China and Russia will have close coordination with key countries in the region like Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Pakistan, who are also SCO members to deal with the challenges from the latest situation in Afghanistan, said Pan, who is also director of the SCO studies center in Shanghai.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a phone conversation with Tajik President Emomali Rahmon on Tuesday that China is ready to work with Tajikistan to build a community of development with rich connotation and an indestructible community of security. Tajikistan is a neighbor to Afghanistan, and some 30 percent of the population in Afghanistan is Tajiks, the second-biggest ethnic group following the Pashtuns (about 40 percent).

The two leaders exchanged views on the situation in Afghanistan and agreed to continue deepening counter-terrorism and security cooperation and jointly maintain regional security and stability.

Pan said if the Taliban fail to show inclusiveness in the new government, it will offend its neighbors like Tajikistan, Iran and Uzbekistan as they all have compatriots or people with the same ethnic or religious identity in Afghanistan, so this is why China keeps urging the Taliban to be inclusive in forming a government.

Qiu said Pakistan, which is also a SCO member, has close ties with the Afghan Taliban, and the Taliban also expressed that it wants to participate in the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative and to be connected with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, so Pakistan will have a major role to play.

"But India's role will be much more embarrassing, as its inflexible decision in diplomacy makes it hard to change its stance to deal with the new situation. New Delhi might consider strengthening supports for Pakistani Taliban, which is a terrorist group challenging the Pakistani government which has attacked Chinese nationals, to add some more leverage for itself by making trouble for other countries."

An expert on counterterrorism and Afghan affairs in Beijing, who asked to remain anonymous, said that "due to the previous terrorist attacks at the Kabul airport, the IS-Khorasan is the terrorist group that the Taliban can decide to cut off, but the Taliban is unlikely to deal with all terrorists in Afghanistan with the same standard."

"The Taliban may keep some terrorists in the country as bargaining chips to make deals with other neighboring countries and major powers worldwide, so it is unrealistic to expect the Taliban to have a clear and absolute cutoff with all terrorists in Afghanistan at this moment," according to the expert.

The East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a major concern for China and the Taliban are aware if it wants to maintain a sustainable ruling of the country, China is the only major power that could provide meaningful support. Therefore, it would take some actions on the matter to meet China's request, the expert said.

The biggest war profiteerUS. (Graphic: Deng Zijun/GT)

Prioritize internal affairs

The political structure of the interim government shows the Taliban want to ensure its political dominance and absolute control in the country and it means the Taliban at this stage will prioritize solving internal problems rather than responding to expectations from the international community, Chinese analysts said.

Although the key positions of the interim government are dominated by Taliban members, the Taliban might share some grass-root positions with non-Taliban forces in the country, analysts said.

Some of these Taliban senior members are on the UN sanctions list, which remains a major concern for the international community and also increases the difficulty for this interim government to be recognized widely and restore normal international exchanges, said Chinese analysts, adding that it will be difficult for the US and other major Western countries to establish ties with the Taliban's interim government.

Mullah Hasan Akhund was announced as prime minister of Afghanistan's caretaker government on Tuesday, with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Abdul Salam Hanafi named as the acting deputy prime ministers, media reported.

Sarajuddin Haqqani, son of the founder of the Haqqani network which is designated as a terrorist organization by the US, will be the acting interior minister, the Taliban's main spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, informed during a news conference in Kabul. Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, son of the late Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar, was appointed acting defense minister. All these appointments were for an interim government, Mujahid told a news conference in Kabul.

Who lead Afghanistans interim government? Graphic: Feng Qingyin/GT

It was not clear what role in the interim government would be played by Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, the Taliban supreme leader. He has not been seen or heard in public since the collapse of the Western-backed government and the seizure of Kabul last month, Reuters reported.

When governing major cities like Kabul, the Taliban at this moment urgently needs capital, which is made worse due to the sanctions imposed by the West. The shortage of foreign reserves and obstacles in restoring normal exchanges with the outside world mean the country is facing a humanitarian crisis, said a Chinese expert on Afghan studies in Beijing who asked not to be named.

"The US should consider being pragmatic to prioritize the interests of the local people, and remove unnecessary sanctions against the country, or those sanctions would cause crisis to harm local ordinary people. Otherwise the stability won't be sustainable and sooner or later the country will return to be a safe haven of terrorist groups," he said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
U.S. is indeed destroying its image by discrediting China with lies

09:01, September 09, 2021 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

Some U.S. politicians, out of the intention to contain and oppress China, are always looking for outdated instruments from the Cold War toolbox, frequently discrediting China and provoking conflicts with lies they have fabricated.

Such dangerous practice mirrors Washingtons inaccurate understanding of China and China-U.S. relations and reflects these U.S. politicians ignorance about international situations. It will only lead to a loss of all sides and be abandoned by the times.

To frame up China, these U.S. politicians fabricated and spread lies in a ridiculous manner.

U.S. Congressman Michael McCaul recently issued a so-called report that once again made hypes about the Wuhan lab leak theory. The report exaggerated the Wuhan Institute of Virologys budget for central air-conditioning by 1,000 times to prove theres something unusual about it.

In an open letter, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Ford confirmed that from December 2020 to early January 2021, under the direction of former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the Office of Policy Planning under the U.S. State Department instructed relevant officials to bypass biological scientists to brief this false argument inside the Department that the coronavirus is a biological agent deliberately unleashed upon the world by the Chinese government.

There are more such cases. In a word, the fabrication and spreading of rumors by these U.S. politicians are totally immoral.

Besides, some U.S. media organizations have also joined the origin tracing show of these U.S. politicians and played a very indecent role, frequently citing the so-called intelligence reports and anonymous officials with insinuations.

After the publication of the illogical and deceiving report by McCaul, The Washington Post even claimed in an article that it presents a convincing case that the lab leak theory must be investigated thoroughly, with or without the Chinese governments permission. Theres no trace of independence, objectivity, and authenticity these U.S. media outlets have long bragged about in such articles.

To advocate science-based origin tracing, the Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. wrote articles that stated Chinas stance and facts and tried to contribute them to some U.S. media organizations. However, the ambassador was rejected every time, which further revealed the hypocrisy of the so-called freedom of the press and speech in the U.S.

To start a new Cold War against China, some U.S. politicians are making troubles for China-U.S. relations with all means possible. Some Chinese enterprises were listed as Communist Chinese Military Companies just because the Chinese government once awarded their founders. Some Chinese students were said to have a military background and repatriated just because they saved photos of military training, an almost mandatory course for Chinese college students, in their phones.

To persuade more U.S. citizens to believe that China is an imaginary enemy of the U.S. and to make mischief between China and other countries, they not only requested Washington to expand the Countering Chinese Influence Fund, but also mobilized media, think tanks, and enterprises to launch a comprehensive social war against China.

Even in the U.S., rational voices are warning the danger of taking China as a threat. Bruce Jentleson, William Preston Few professor of public policy and political science at Duke University, noted that the China threat is being inflated in ways that are counterproductive for foreign-policy strategy and distort domestic politics in dangerous ways.

It would be absurd and dangerous to apply the Cold War playbook to todays China-U.S. relations, or take China as the U.S. rival and imaginary enemy, just like when Don Quixote tilted at windmills.

In todays world, where economic globalization is taking place in a profound manner, countries are seeing integrated interests. The demand for cooperation between China and the U.S. is rising rather than going down when the world faces increasingly more risks. U.S. politicians who want to decouple with China through political manipulation and win the so-called new Cold War against China by bloc politics are just ignorant about the development of China and the world.

The international society is generally worried about the dangerous acts of the U.S. politicians seeking confrontations with China. Even the allies of the U.S. are not willing to be included in an anti-China alliance.

Washingtons China policy should not be abducted by these politicians or established on presumptions and lies. Such practices of the U.S. politicians would only lead to a poorer image of the U.S..

It is a fact that China and the U.S. differ in ideology, social system, culture, and history. No one is able to change the other. The right approach remains to find a way of peaceful coexistence between the two major countries based on mutual respect, which is the only path that the China-U.S. relations should seek, and the only way left for the two countries.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by Peoples Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
China-Europe freight trains make over 10,000 trips this year

09:06, September 09, 2021 By Lu Ya'nan ( People's Daily

A container is being loaded onto a China-Europe freight train in a logistics park in Hohhot, north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, March 23, 2021. (People's Daily Online/Xia Liang)

The China-Europe freight train service made its 10,000th trip this year as the train X8015 started its engine and headed for Duisburg, Germany from Wuhan, central China's Hubei province on the last day of August, carrying auto parts, electronic products, daily necessities and anti-pandemic materials.

Statistics showed that China-Europe freight trains made 10,030 trips in the first eight months this year, sending 964,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), up 32 percent and 40 percent, respectively. Loaded containers accounted for 97.9 percent of the total.

"The China-Europe freight train service is on a robust growth," said the director of the Freight Transport Department of China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. (China Railway).

According to him, China-Europe freight trains have made over 1,000 trips in each of the past 16 months, and the monthly number of trips has been kept above 1,300 since May this year. The service has made positive contributions to stabilizing international industrial and supply chains and promoting the "dual circulation" development pattern.

The 10,000-trip milestone this year arrived two months earlier than that a year before. Behind such performance were optimized management, improved efficiency, and expanded handling capability of ports.

"We have constantly optimized our working procedure, shortened the time of transshipping, improved efficiency, and made good use of digital platforms," said Gao Qiang, deputy director of the cargo-loading workshop of the train station in the border city of Alashankou, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. Over 4,000 China-Europe freight trains have passed the Alashankou port his year, he added.

Since the beginning of 2021, the ports in Alashankou and Khorgos of Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and Manzhouli of north China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region have successively launched expansion and upgrading projects, which has significantly improved the handling capacity for China-Europe freight trains.

The west, central and east routes of the China-Europe freight train service witnessed a year-on-year growth of 37 percent, 15 percent and 35 percent, respectively, in the number of trips made by China-Europe freight trains from January to August this year.

Besides, railway authorities also collaborated with port supervisors to facilitate customs clearance and improve customs clearance capability and efficiency, which effectively reduced the time of shipment.

Wang Bo, senior logistics manager with LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd., the world's most valuable solar technology company, introduced that the company is now seeing halved transportation time and reduced warehousing cost thanks to a freight route tailored by the railway department specifically for photovoltaic products.

"China-Europe freight trains have significantly counteracted the impacts from COVID-19 for enterprises and become a regular logistics channel for our deliveries to European clients," Wang said.

Since this year, local railway departments have enhanced communication with foreign trade enterprises to learn their logistics demand, and issued targeted plans of transportation.

Zhengzhou, central China's Henan province, had its 10th overseas station of the China-Europe freight train service after a train arrived in it from Italy's Milan this July. In June this year, a new freight route was opened between Wuyishan, southeast China's Fujian province and Russias Moscow, integrating the Chinese tea production center closer into the Belt and Road. Northern China's Shanxi province also launched its first freight routes to Paris and Turkey's Mersin this summer, facilitating the transportation of dozens of commodities such as metal products, agricultural produce and electromechanical devices.

So far, the China-Europe freight train service has opened 73 operation routes to some 170 cities in 23 European countries, carrying over 50,000 types of cargos. It has facilitated synergetic production in and outside China, lowered logistics cost for enterprises, and offered support for the economic and social development of the Belt and Road countries.

The China-Europe freight train service is a manifestation of China's major country responsibility for what it has done to alleviate the COVID-19 pandemic - transporting anti-pandemic materials as soon as possible and as many as possible.

According to the Freight Transport Department of the China Railway, anti-pandemic materials have been taken as a priority by the China-Europe freight train service. Since the pandemic broke out, China-Europe freight trains have transported 12.8 million anti-pandemic items weighing 99,000 metric tons to European countries, making positive contributions to international anti-pandemic cooperation.

"The China-Europe freight train service will still in a high demand as the Chinese economy recovers stably," said the director of the department.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Chinese envoy stresses importance of peacekeeping transition strategy

Xinhua) 09:07, September 09, 2021

Peacekeepers participate in an international peacekeeping drill, code-named "Shared Destiny-2021", at a combined-arms tactical training base of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) in central China's Henan Province, Sept. 7, 2021. (Xinhua/Liu Fang)

What transpired recently in Afghanistan is proof that the so-called democratic transformation imposed from the outside would inevitably end in failure. The international community and the United Nations should learn the lessons and continue to provide effective and strong support to post-conflict countries, such as Afghanistan, in their reconstruction efforts, a Chinese envoy said.

UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Wednesday stressed the importance of UN peacekeeping transition strategy.

Peacekeeping operations are an important means for the United Nations to maintain international peace and security. A properly formulated and effectively implemented transition strategy is key to the success of a peacekeeping operation, said Dai Bing, charge d'affaires of China's permanent mission to the United Nations.

The issue is also a common topic that requires Security Council members to take stock of lessons learned and strive to continuously improve, he told an open debate of the council on the issue of peacekeeping transitions.

Dai underscored the need to optimize the overall planning of UN peacekeeping operations.

UN peacekeeping operations should always follow the goal of political settlement. Timely adjustments in the mandate and priorities should be made in light of the evolution of the situation on the ground. The protection of civilians, human rights, and transitional justice are all means to serve the political process, and cannot replace the political process itself, he said.

The Security Council, at the early stage of peacekeeping deployment, should incorporate peacebuilding plans with the aim to lay the foundation for long-term peace and stability in the host country. As the situation gradually stabilizes, the formulation of a clear and feasible exit strategy should become an important element in promoting a smooth transition, he said.

Anita Kiki Gebe, deputy joint special representative of the United Nations-African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), awards UN peace medal to a soldier of the 2nd China Medium Utility Helicopter Unit (CMUHU02) in El-Fashir, Sudan, July 17, 2019. (Xinhua)

Supporting the host country in nation-building is a top priority, said Dai.

A country emerging from conflicts usually sees its infrastructure in ruins. The transition from peacekeeping to peacebuilding is key to national reconstruction, he said.

Reconstruction is primarily the responsibility of the country concerned. But a post-conflict country, due to its vulnerability and fragility, is hardly capable of independent development during this transitional phase. The United Nations and the international community have the responsibility to provide targeted support to such a country so as to build and improve its self-driven development capacity, he said.

It should be emphasized that political and social stability hinges on steady economic development. In formulating a transition strategy, priority should be given to key sectors, such as infrastructure, agriculture, resource utilization, education, and poverty eradication as these are all important conditions for long-term peace and stability of the country concerned, he said.

What transpired recently in Afghanistan is proof that the so-called democratic transformation imposed from the outside would inevitably end in failure. The international community and the United Nations should learn the lessons and continue to provide effective and strong support to post-conflict countries, such as Afghanistan, in their reconstruction efforts, he said.

Members of the 19th batch of Chinese peacekeeping forces to Lebanon lay a wreath to pay tribute to martyrs including Du Zhaoyu on the occasion of Qingming Festival in Khiam, Lebanon, April 4, 2021. (Photo by Ding Wendong/Xinhua)

Dai also stressed the importance of formulating a transition strategy that is in line with the local conditions. Post-conflict transition involves the rebuilding of state institutions, national reconciliation, security sector reform, among others. These are all sovereignty-related issues that cannot be separated from the specific political, economic, and cultural conditions of the country concerned, he said.

"In designing a transition plan for a UN peacekeeping operation, we should fully heed and respect the wishes of the country so as to ensure convergence and complementarity with national development strategies and priorities, which are independently formulated and determined by the country."

It is also essential to make timely adjustments in light of the evolving situation on the ground, he added.

For many years, China has actively supported reconstruction and development of post-conflict countries, especially developing countries, and provided support in the field of economic development, education, health, and infrastructure, focusing on helping them improve their independent development capacity and achieve a greater degree of self-reliance and self-sufficiency, he said.

The China-UN Peace and Development Fund has actively supported relevant countries in undertaking cooperation projects on counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, good offices, mediation, and sustainable development. China stands ready to work with the international community to continue its positive contribution in helping post-conflict countries in achieving peace and sustainable development, said Dai.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Bangladesh's COVID-19 vaccination drive gets boost with China's Sinopharm jabs

Xinhua) 09:19, September 09, 2021

DHAKA, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- People lined up in long queues to receive the Chinese Sinopharm jabs outside a COVID-19 vaccination center on Tuesday morning in Bangladesh's Chandpur district, as the inoculation of the second doses started in the area.

"Chinese Sinopharm vaccine doses are being given here through our union Parishad. People are very much satisfied with the first doses of the Chinese (Sinopharm) vaccine," said Md Billal Hossain Patwari, chairman of Chandpur's Ashikati Union Parishad, the smallest rural administrative and local government unit in the country.

The vaccination drive is also running smoothly elsewhere in the country thanks largely to China's continued support.

To fight against the alarming spike in COVID-19 cases, Bangladesh has signed an agreement on the co-production of the Chinese jabs locally.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between China's Sinopharm Group, Bangladesh's Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Incepta Vaccine Ltd., a local vaccine manufacturing company last month.

Bangladesh began the COVID-19 vaccination drive in January to contain the pandemic that has spread across the country.

Amid uncertainty over the timely arrival of vaccine shipment from India, the Bangladeshi government later halted administering the first doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

In June, the vaccination drive resumed in parts of the country with the China-donated Sinopharm vaccines.

The resurgence in COVID-19 cases since June prompted the government to impose a strict lockdown from July 1 to Aug. 11.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China's resilient food systems inspire Africa amid pandemic: experts

Xinhua) 09:22, September 09, 2021

NAIROBI, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China's ability to sustain the resilience of its food and agriculture systems at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has been an inspiration to African countries, experts said on Wednesday.

Speaking at a side event of the ongoing African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) 2021 Summit in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, the experts said Africa should leverage best practices from China including the use of E-commerce to minimize the pandemic's shocks on agricultural value chains.

Mbelwa Kairuki, ambassador of Tanzania to China said that African countries were keen to draw from China's success in averting widespread disruption on its food systems during the pandemic.

"China demonstrated competence and resilience in the areas of food security and agriculture in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic, offering vital lessons for Africa," said Kairuki.

Kenya is hosting the African Green Revolution Forum 2021 summit virtually from Sept. 7 to 10 under the theme of "Pathways to Recovery and Resilient Food Systems".

Among high level delegates that are expected to participate in the four-day summit include Heads of State and Government, ministers, representatives of multilateral lenders, industry executives and innovators.

Chinese and African experts participating at the side event stressed that sharing experiences on mitigating impacts of COVID-19 on food systems was crucial to averting hunger, malnutrition and loss of rural incomes.

Nie Fengying, director general and research fellow with Agriculture Information Institute of Chinese Academy of Agriculture Science said that widespread uptake of electronic commerce proved effective in sustaining food supply chains even as stringent coronavirus prevention measures were enforced.

According to Nie, a vibrant digital commerce infrastructure combined with cold chain facilities ensured that supply of agricultural commodities was not interrupted in China at the height of the pandemic.

She said that China's expertise in logistics, enactment of supportive policies to spur growth of electronic commerce in rural areas could offer vital lessons to African countries whose food supply chains were affected by the pandemic, resulting in a spike in malnutrition among vulnerable demographics.

Fadel Ndiame, deputy president of Nairobi-based Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) said the continent should apply lessons learnt from China's ability to stabilize food systems in the wake of the pandemic to enact policies that spur agricultural innovations.

Ndiame noted that agriculture could be the next frontier for China-Africa cooperation adding that it promises immense benefits including revitalizing rural economies, food security and jobs for the youth.

Han Jiqin , professor and dean with School for International Education of Nanjing Agricultural University in China said that China-Africa agricultural cooperation anchored on knowledge, skills and technology transfer is key to boost crop yield in the continent besides tackling supply chain hitches occasioned by the pandemic.

Han said that by upscaling public and private sector investments in modern farming systems like China, African countries will be able to withstand pandemic's aftershocks like decreased supply of staples.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China to provide millions worth of supplies to Afghanistan

Xinhua) 09:28, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China has decided to urgently provide 200 million yuan (30.96 million U.S. dollars) worth of grains, winter supplies, vaccines, and medicines to Afghanistan according to the needs of the Afghan people.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the announcement on Wednesday when attending the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries in Beijing via video link.

Wang said China has decided to donate 3 million vaccine doses to the Afghan people in the first batch. China is also ready to provide more anti-epidemic and emergency materials to Afghanistan under the China-South Asian Countries Emergency Supplies Reserve.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Interview: Japanese expert hails qualitative leap in China's Tibetan studies

Xinhua) 09:38, September 09, 2021

TOKYO, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Tibetan studies in China have made rapid progress and achieved a qualitative leap in recent years, while the electronic age of Tibetan language supports the vigorous dissemination and development of Tibetan culture, said Kibaki Tanaka, a Japanese Tibetan culture expert.

Tanaka, a researcher at The Nakamura Hajime Eastern Institute, has visited Tibet seven times between 1985 and 2007. He has published dozens of books on Tibetan culture and thangka, a traditional Buddhist painting, and has promoted the spread of Tibetan culture in Japan by planning and holding thematic painting and photo exhibitions.

He told reporters in a written interview that China has established a Tibetology research center and its affiliated publishing house has published a large number of Tibetology-related books. In addition, many excellent books on Tibetan culture in the Tibetan language have been published in China.

The expert said "The Chinese Tripitaka," published in the Tibetan language by the Tibetan research center, is an amazing work.

"Before the book was published, I have always used the scanning copies of woodcut prints for my research, and this movable type printing edition of 'The Chinese Tripitaka' has proofread the four woodcut prints. The publication of such a valuable document is a great achievement for future generations and researchers around the world," he said.

Tanaka was also deeply impressed by the development and application of the Tibetan language input method in China.

"The development and application of the Tibetan input method is huge social progress. After it was installed on computers and smartphones, it is easy to use and fast to input, which is really huge social progress," he said.

In 1997, the research center of the Tibet University developed the international standard of a basic set of Tibetan coded characters for information technology and information interchange. Since then, the Tibetan input method, Tibetan character recognition system, Tibetan office software operating system and other Tibetan software and application systems have been developed, bringing the Tibetan language with a history of more than 1,300 years into the electronic era.

Thangka, the Tibetan painting on cotton or silk, was also an important object of Tanaka's study. He believed thangka originated from hanging scrolls of Buddha paintings in India, which were introduced to Tibet along with Buddhism from India. The spread of thangka to the Chinese mainland can be traced back to the Mongol Empire, after which it went through the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties.

"Most Chinese thangka painters use thangka paintings of the 18th and 19th centuries as models for their creation," Tanaka said. "But if you want to restore thangka murals from the 15th and 16th centuries, you need to use thangka patterns from that era as a model, and currently there are not many Chinese painters studying thangka paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries."

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
PLA on alert amid US' provocative destroyer, carrier activities in South China Sea

Global Times) 09:49, September 09, 2021

A fighter bomber attached to a naval aviation brigade under the PLA Northern Theater Command receives power-on inspections in its hangar after completing a recent round-the-clock flight training exercise. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Yu Zhengqing and Zhang Qiang)

The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Southern Theater Command on Wednesday vowed to stay on high alert and safeguard China's sovereignty and security, and protect peace and stability in the South China Sea, after it warned off a US destroyer that trespassed into Chinese sovereign waters in the region on the day, a few days after a US aircraft carrier entered the region for a provocative deployment.

On Wednesday, the US guided missile destroyer USS Benfold trespassed into areas adjacent to the Meiji Reef in the South China Sea without China's permission, and the naval and aerial forces of the PLA Southern Theater Command conducted whole-process tracking and monitoring of the US destroyer and warned it off, said a PLA Southern Theater Command spokesperson in a written statement.

The spokesperson, Air Force Senior Colonel Tian Junli, pointed out that the US move seriously violated China's sovereignty and security. It was the latest ironclad proof of US' navigation hegemony and militarization of the South China Sea.

"More and more facts have proved that the US is the biggest risk maker and the biggest breaker of stability and peace in the region," Tian said.

Tian stressed in the statement that China has sovereignty over the islands and nearby waters, and the troops of the PLA Southern Theater Command will stay on high alert. The troops will firmly perform their duties and missions to safeguard China's sovereignty and security, and protect peace and stability in the South China Sea.

According to monitoring by the South China Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative (SCSPI), a Beijing-based think tank, the USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier entered the South China Sea via the Bashi Channel on Monday. The carrier's deployment was confirmed by the US Pacific Fleet later on Tuesday in a tweet.

It was the sixth time a US aircraft carrier entered the region this year, the SCSPI said.

Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military expert, told the Global Times on Wednesday that the US destroyer's trespassing into Chinese sovereign waters and the US aircraft carrier's deployment in the South China Sea are provocative moves aimed at China, and they could be coordinated with the UK's HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier, which was operating near Japan.

The USS Carl Vinson carried the US Navy's first fully integrated air wing to deploy overseas with both the F-35C fighter and the new CMV-22B tiltrotor, according to a report published on August 2 on the website of the US Naval Institute.

As the first carrier to get the F-35C, the USS Carl Vinson went straight to the South China Sea with the aim of deterring China, but China has already developed a number of anti-stealth radar systems, so the F-35C can be detected, Fu said, noting that China also has countermeasures against the vertical take-off and landing-capable CMV-22Bs, which could land on islands and reefs in the region.

China is fully capable of and confident in dealing with such provocations, Fu said. "The PLA cannot be defeated within the second island chain."

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
China to further promote trade of traditional Chinese medicine services

Xinhua) 10:02, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China will further explore the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to address health issues and develop TCM services trade, said guests at the 2021 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS).

Chen Zhu, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, called for making TCM cooperation part of the Belt and Road Initiative to allow it playing a bigger role in combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chen made the remarks in a video speech at the opening ceremony of the fourth Belt and Road Forum for TCM Development, which was held Sunday in Beijing on the sidelines of the recently concluded CIFTIS.

Huang Luqi, deputy head of National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, said at the same occasion that China has exchanged TCM clinical experience with about 150 countries and regions, provided TCM products to more than 10 countries and regions based on their demands, and sent TCM doctors to 28 countries and regions to help fight the pandemic.

Huang noted that TCM service trade institutions have consolidated and expanded their business globally through developing telemedicine and distance education.

In May, the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) and the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine jointly issued a circular supporting the development of national export bases of TCM services.

As one of the first bases, Guang'anmen Hospital affiliated to the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, located in Beijing, has set up online diagnosis and treatment services covering the United States, Canada, Japan and some European countries, and has served hundreds of overseas COVID-19 patients.

Vice Minister of Commerce Wang Bingnan said during the CIFTIS that by the end of this year, the MOC and the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine will expand the list of export bases.

Beijing supports outstanding domestic TCM institutions to set up TCM centers overseas in cooperation with local institutions to provide TCM treatment and health care services, said Du Feijin, deputy director of Beijing Municipal People's Congress Standing Committee, during the CIFTIS.

Huang Junhua, vice chairman of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, said that Guangxi and ASEAN countries have a broad foundation and prospects for cooperation in the field of traditional medicine, as they are geologically close and share similar cultural backgrounds and spectra of diseases.

Guangxi's medical institutions have launched TCM services in hospitals in Cambodia and Laos, and have signed cooperation agreements with hospitals in Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand to provide TCM services to the local people, he added.

This year's CIFTIS, held from Sept. 2-7, attracted more than 12,000 enterprises. Representatives from 153 countries and regions signed up for the event, according to the MOC.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China strengthens crackdown on irregular off-campus tutoring

Xinhua) 10:56, September 09, 2021

A student shows her drawings at a primary school in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Sept. 1, 2021. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China has pledged stern actions against irregular off-campus tutoring activities featuring curriculum subjects.

Unlicensed institutions and individuals offering backdoor curriculum subject-tutoring services such as household services and consulting will be investigated and handled in accordance with the related law and regulations, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Education.

The document also clarifies other types of irregularities in off-campus curriculum subject-tutoring activities, including those violating regulations on who can provide such services and when, where and how such services can be provided.

Primary and secondary school teachers are banned from being paid for offering extra lessons, the circular says.

It bans conducting curriculum subject-tutoring under the disguise of summer camps or training of art, sports, science and technology, adding that offline institutions cannot provide such services through online channels, including livestreaming and online conferencing.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China welcomes Taliban's announcement of caretaker gov't: spokesperson

Xinhua) 11:02, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China attaches importance to the Taliban's announcement of the formation of a caretaker government in Afghanistan, together with some important personnel arrangements, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Wednesday.

According to media reports, the Taliban announced on Tuesday night the formation of Afghanistan's caretaker government, with Mullah Hassan Akhund appointed as the acting prime minister.

"This has ended the more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan and is a necessary step toward Afghanistan's restoration of order and post-war reconstruction," spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a press briefing.

China's position on the Afghanistan issue is consistent and clear, said Wang, adding that China upholds a policy of non-interference, respects Afghanistan's sovereign independence and territorial integrity, and supports the Afghan people in choosing a development path that suits their national conditions.

Wang said China hopes that Afghanistan will build a broad-based and inclusive political framework, adopt moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, fight firmly against terrorism of all kinds and establish friendly relations with all countries, particularly with neighbouring countries.

China stands ready to maintain communication with Afghanistan's new government and leaders, and hopes that the new government will broadly absorb opinions from Afghan ethnic groups and parties, and meet the Afghan people's aspirations and the expectations of the international community, Wang said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China releases first batch of gamma photon data from dark matter explorer

Xinhua) 11:14, September 09, 2021

Photo taken on Nov. 2, 2017 shows Chang Jin, chief scientist of Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE) and vice director of the Purple Mountain Observatory (PMO), introducing the science achievement of DAMPE at the PMO in Nanjing, capital of east China's Jiangsu Province. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- China has released the first batch of gamma photon data obtained by the Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE), according to Science and Technology Daily on Wednesday.

The National Space Science Data Center (NSSDC) and the Purple Mountain Observatory (PMO) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Tuesday released the scientific data collected by the DAMPE, also known as Wukong or Monkey King.

According to the PMO, Wukong's satellite platform and payload have been working normally. It has finished the full-sky scan 11 times and collected about 10.7 billion cases of high-energy cosmic rays, obtaining the most accurate measurement results of cosmic-ray electrons, protons and helium nuclei above the trillion electron volts energy region.

The released data were recorded from Jan. 1, 2016, to Dec. 31, 2018, including 99,864 cases of gamma photon data and 1,096 records of related satellite status files. They can be accessed from the NSSDC and the PMO.

The NSSDC and the PMO said they will release more scientific data of gamma photons, carry out data analysis, and develop application technologies and tools.

Wukong was launched on Dec. 17, 2015, to observe the energy spectra of high-energy electrons, including positrons, and gamma rays in space to find evidence of the existence of dark matter particles. It also has carried out research on the origin of cosmic-ray and gamma-ray astronomy.

Wukong's payload has four parts: a plastic scintillator array detector, a silicon array detector, a calorimeter, and a neutron detector. It has extremely high energy resolution in gamma-ray observation and is expected to better study dark matter.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
We Are China

Full Text: Human Rights Action Plan of China (2021-2025)

Xinhua) 11:19, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The State Council Information Office of the People's Republic of China on Thursday released the country's fourth human rights action plan "Human Rights Action Plan of China (2021-2025)."

Please see the attachment for the document.

Full Text: Human Rights Action Plan of China (2021-2025)

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China to continuously improve eco-environment: action plan

Xinhua) 12:37, September 09, 2021

Photo taken on Nov. 11, 2020 shows black-headed gulls near the Jijiang Yangtze River Bridge in Jiangjin District of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality.(Xinhua/Wang Quanchao)

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- China will fight and win the battle against pollution and continuously improve the eco-environment, a human rights action plan said Thursday.

Titled "Human Rights Action Plan of China (2021-2025)," the document was released by the State Council Information Office.

According to the action plan, China will take further actions to prevent and control atmospheric pollution, and coordinate its commitments to reducing air pollutants and greenhouse gas emissions.

The average PM2.5 intensity in cities at or above the prefectural level is expected to fall by 10 percent while the total emissions of nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds are expected to drop by more than 10 percent respectively.

China will also strengthen water treatment and protection, said the action plan. It will continue the environmental protection campaign to treat black and malodorous water bodies in cities and largely eliminate such phenomena in urban built-up areas.

In terms of soil conservation, China will consolidate and improve the safe use of agricultural land, reduce the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and treat the pollution caused by agricultural plastic film.

The treatment of sewage and solid waste will be improved during the period, according to the action plan. China will achieve full coverage of sewage pipe networks in urban areas, and ensure that treatment to render sewage sludge harmless reaches 90 percent. A basic system for dropping, collecting, transporting and disposing of sorted household garbage will be established in cities at the prefectural level and above.

The country also aims to improve law-based environmental governance, said the action plan. It will improve its eco-environmental legal system, formulate and revise laws and regulations, and steadily push forward the formulation and revision of environmental standards.

China will take resolute action against illegal and criminal activities in the eco-environmental field in accordance with the law, said the action plan.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
North Macedonia marks 30th anniversary of independence

Xinhua) 12:43, September 09, 2021

A parade is held to mark the 30th anniversary of the independence of North Macedonia in Skopje, North Macedonia, Sept. 8, 2021. (Photo by Tomislav Georgiev/Xinhua)

SKOPJE, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- North Macedonia on Wednesday marked the 30th anniversary of its independence.

In a video message to the citizens, President Stevo Pendarovski said that on this day 30 years ago came true the dream of all generations that fought and died for the country's freedom.

"Today, we have the privilege of having our own independent state and at the same time a great responsibility to invest in it to be a worthy home for every one of us," Pendarovski said.

Pendarovski, accompanied by Prime Minister Zoran Zaev and other officials, laid wreaths on the graves of former Presidents Kiro Gligorov and Boris Trajkovski, contributors to the country's sovereign statehood.

To mark the occasion, the authorities organized a series of events, including music performances and a parade of health workers, police and army members, athletes and firefighters.

Over 95 percent of the country's citizens voted in favor of independence in 1991. North Macedonia has been a candidate for European Union (EU) membership since 2005.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Xi extends Teachers' Day greetings to teachers

Xinhua) 13:20, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on teachers to provide good guidance to students, as he greeted teachers across the country ahead of China's Teachers' Day that falls on Friday this year.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a reply letter to representatives of model teaching units named after late geophysicist Huang Danian, a professor at Jilin University. Huang helped China make advances in deep-earth exploration.

A good teacher should be one who has both profound knowledge to share and moral integrity to lead, said Xi, urging model teachers, along with all their colleagues in colleges and universities across China, to continue to cultivate their virtue, focus on teaching and keep on innovating.

Xi said teachers shall provide good guidance to students and nurture them into capable young people who have good and all-round moral, intellectual, physical and aesthetical grounding and are well-prepared to join the socialist cause.

Following Xi's important instruction on learning from Huang's exemplary deeds, the Ministry of Education in 2017 started to identify and honor model teaching units. The first 201 such units were selected from 200 colleges and universities.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
U.S. strategy to counter China in Pacific ineffective, self-defeating: The Guardian

Xinhua) 13:27, September 09, 2021

LONDON, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Biden administration's proposal to spend as much as 1 billion U.S. dollars annually in some Pacific island nations as part of efforts to counter China is a flawed foreign policy initiative likely to fail, The Guardian said in a report on Tuesday.

"The proposed initiatives seek to make the region a U.S. strategic priority by employing programs largely divorced from on-the-ground realities, an approach that will probably prove ineffective at best and self-defeating at worst," the report said.

The explicit purpose of the U.S. increased engagement is to counter challenges by China to U.S. preeminence in the Pacific and beyond, it said, noting that it is problematic because it is motivated by security concerns not necessarily shared by island leaders, who see climate change, not China, as the major threat to Pacific futures.

The initiatives are also conceived in zero-sum terms, designed to undermine Chinese influence rather than addressing the critical needs and priorities of island nations themselves, the report added.

"Island leaders do not want to be forced to choose between China and the United States, or to be played as pawns. Rather they wish to chart their own course," it said.

The U.S. efforts to integrate Pacific island states into the hard and soft power dimensions of its strategy accelerate the militarization of the region, placing some island nations at greater risk in the event of conflict, the report noted.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Commentary: China's strengthened economic regulations aim healthy longer-term development

Xinhua) 14:21, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- China recently launched a series of anti-monopoly probes and stepped up economic regulations over some tech companies. These measures do not indicate a departure from decades of market opening and engagement with the world, they rather reinforce that the commitment of the world's second-largest economy to reform and opening-up remains unchanged.

Many insiders as well outsiders have taken notice of these enhanced regulations. Chinese authorities' talks with leading online game enterprises and platforms such as Tencent and NetEase held on Wednesday suggest the same.

A closer look would reveal that China's strengthened regulations are specific and problem-oriented. They should not be taken as a wide-ranging crackdown for the sake of cracking down on private companies, but prescriptions for certain persistent ailments.

The latest measures targeting online gaming giants, which include shortening the duration of online gaming services available to minors, are aimed at improving youth development.

The regulations and investigations involving corporate giants with a huge trove of Chinese data aim to protect the privacy and data security of numerous consumers, as well as the security of the state.

For some tech giants -- known as "platform companies" in China -- which play a dominant role in their respective markets, the regulations and investigations address unfair practices such as the notorious "er xuan yi," or "choose one from two." The monopolistic demand of some platform companies from much smaller merchants, if goes unchecked, could undermine fair competition, stifle market access and innovation, and ultimately harm consumer interests and the entire economy.

There are also regulations and investigations that seek to balance the relationship between big platforms and their workforce, ensuring workers' legitimate rights and interests vis-a-vis big capital.

In a nutshell, the broad stroke that China is cracking down on tech companies is biased.

It is worth pointing out that with the rapid development of the digital economy, other major global economies have also been moving to beef up supervision and regulation over giant tech companies. Governments across the Atlantic are making efforts in digital industrial policy formulation, increasing their regulatory and governance capabilities in preventing monopolies in the digital economy, safeguarding data security, bridging the digital divide, and combating illegal tax evasion.

China is not regressing as some media accused. On the contrary, it has adopted a more forward-looking approach to the universal challenges and issues facing many countries.

In forestalling and defusing the risks brought about by the disorderly and even barbaric expansion of capital, China is also putting people first and not corporate giants. The country aims to promote common prosperity for all and not just a few.

In its pursuit of a unified, open, competitive and orderly market, China has not and will not stop promoting fair competition, market reforms, a supervision system and strengthened anti-monopoly regulation. The country will strive to build a high-standard market system.

Tech companies are encouraged to perceive the big picture and serve the country's economic and social development. They are also urged to play active roles in promoting scientific and technological progress, market prosperity, improvement of people's lives, and participate in cross-border competition.

China's firm determination and prudent practices will optimize its economic structure, capital markets and governance in the longer term as well as reduce risks and facilitate fair market competition.

China will also unswervingly promote high-level opening-up, protect property and intellectual property rights, and enhance policy transparency and predictability.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Commissioner's office of Chinese foreign ministry urges British politician to stop smearing national security law in Hong Kong

Xinhua) 15:42, September 09, 2021

HONG KONG, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Office of the Commissioner of the Chinese Foreign Ministry in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Thursday expressed strong disapproval of and firm opposition to certain western politician's wanton remarks that smeared the national security law in Hong Kong.

The spokesperson of the office said certain western politician turned a blind eye to facts and confounded black and white, which shows an ulterior motive to disrupt the lawful administration of the HKSAR government and damage Hong Kong's stability.

The spokesperson said it is a blatant interference in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab recently made irresponsible remarks on social media about the Hong Kong police's law-based arrest of several members of the notorious anti-China group "Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China."

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Australian treasurer provokes China, risks wellbeing of Australian people: Australian Financial Review

Xinhua) 15:43, September 09, 2021

CANBERRA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg was risking the wellbeing of the Australian by provoking China with the so-called "China plus" strategy, reported the Australian Financial Review, citing a Chinese scholar.

"The so-called 'China plus' strategy is in essence 'China minus'," Chen Hong, director of Australian Studies Center in the East China Normal University, was quoted by the business-focused daily as saying.

"Frydenberg is purposely trying to dictate Australian businesses to redesign themselves for an economy without China," Chen said.

"This is a war cry for substantive decoupling, which shows Canberra's determination to position China as an adversary, not a partner," he added.

Frydenberg alleged on Monday that China's combination of economic power and global connection poses "new and significant challenges for many countries", and Australian businesses should not "overly rely on one country".

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged the Australian side to abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological bias, stop playing up "coercive China" narrative for selfish political gains, and do more to enhance mutual trust and promote practical cooperation between the two countries.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Politicizing virus origin tracing is just another turning point in the downward spiral of US hegemony

16:05, September 09, 2021 By Ye Zhu ( People's Daily Online

Just how poorly the US has fared in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is beyond anyones expectations, and yet it is really a common phenomenon in the US. When it comes to the US anti-pandemic performance, the country has adopted the same hegemonic approach that it has taken in international politics, economics, the military and in other domains.

A pedestrian walks past a COVID-19 mobile testing site in New York, the United States, Sept. 6, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)

The US approach to turn the process of tracing the origin of the coronavirus into an act of espionage has demonstrated the countrys hegemonic control over the health sector. The US has conducted intelligence-based virus origin studies and used public opinion as a tool to disrupt normal scientific origin tracing process all in an attempt to smear China. In May, the US president ordered that the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and other intelligence agencies investigate the origins of the coronavirus within a period of 90 days. After 90 days of work, the US intelligence community could only release an inconclusive report. However, the US president then criticized China for concealing important information. The US is always able to trump up a charge against other countries as long as it is out to accuse them.

The US has attempted to marginalize the World Health Organization (WHO) and seek hegemony amid the pandemic. During the Trump administration, the US withdrew from the WHO and refused to pay money it owed the organization, making the WHO a victim of US hegemony. The current US government, while reviving support for the WHO, acted beyond the WHO framework by ordering the intelligence community to do something that should have been done by scientists. All these facts have proved that the US has treated the WHO in a selective and utilitarian manner, using the latter as a tool to maintain its hegemony while discarding it when it doesnt suit US interests.

American attitudes toward scientific and global health issues are based on the presumption of guilt, and the country handles its relationship with international organizations and applies basic norms governing international relations in a selective way. The US always puts its own interests above that of all other countries and discredits and meddles in the domestic affairs of other countries. Also, as a demonstration of its hegemony, what the US did to deal with health issues is not any different from declaring wars on other countries based on fabricated evidence.

Alex Lo, a columnist with the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post, said in an article that the obsession of American politicians, including no fewer than two presidents, with the Wuhan lab leak origin theory of the COVID-19 pandemic is mainly motivated by two goals, and neither of which has much to do with public health or fighting the next pandemic.

One goal has to do with a racist fear that may be called the new yellow peril and is combined with Americas perennial communist paranoia. The other is simply the natural reflex of politicians to blame others, while never taking any responsibility themselves, for disasters of their own making. The latter impulse is, for example, amply and shamefully demonstrated by US President Joe Biden in his blaming of the Afghan government and army for the fall of Kabul, rather than reflecting on his own incompetence, Lo wrote.

The US always imposes American democratic values and human rights on other countries. However, in the midst of a health crisis, the US itself has become a major loser in the fight against COVID-19, as well as a major spreader of the coronavirus. On Sept. 7, the number of COVID-19 cases in the US exceeded 40 million, which equals the total population of the State of California. A commentary by the New York Times said that this reflects the incompetence of the US government in controlling the pandemic. With more than 160,000 new cases a day and a total COVID-19 death toll surpassing 650,000, there are still 47 percent of Americans who are not fully vaccinated.

The US is a hoarder of COVID vaccines. To realize the target of ensuring that 70 percent of American adults could receive at least one shot by July 4, the countrys Independence Day, the US continued to hoard vaccines, which in the end resulted in millions of doses of vaccines being wasted. At the same time, the vaccination rate had only reached 10 percent in 70 countries and regions around the world, and even less than 1 percent in 12 countries. A commentary by the Washington Post has pointed out that the greatest failure of the US in the COVID fight is that it only cared about the COVID-19 situation within its own borders, without offering any substantial aid to other countries in containing the virus.

The US labels itself as a lecturer on human rights, but its true hegemonic nature has already been seen for what it is. US media have said that the US started to undergo a decline after its invasion of Iraq in 2003. Today, the fall of Kabul has sounded the death knell for US hegemony. Politicizing the origin tracing of the coronavirus is just another turning point in the downward spiral of US hegemony.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Commentary: BRICS can play bigger role in anchoring tumultuous world

Xinhua) 16:23, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Since its inception in 2009, the emerging-market mechanism of BRICS has grown from strength to strength as its members can always come together to tackle shared challenges and achieve common goals.

On Thursday, leaders of the five BRICS countries -- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa -- are scheduled to meet at a virtual summit for the second year. As they gather, they are facing a still rampant pandemic, an increasingly uneven global economic recovery as well as a torrent of rising non-conventional global security challenges.

BRICS represents more than 26 percent of the world's landmass, 42 percent of the global population and over 20 percent of the global gross domestic product (GDP), which puts it in a good position to play a vital role in dealing with this changing world. The time is now for the BRICS countries to reinforce their cohesion within the mechanism, and build up new consensus for more dynamic cooperation.

The top priority is to contain the pandemic as early as possible. To do that, the BRICS countries should not only strengthen their coordination in cross-border prevention and control measures, but also pool more resources and talent for vaccine cooperation, the most potent weapon to vanquish this deadly pathogen.

China launched the BRICS Vaccine Research and Development (R&D) Center-China Center this May, a move to implement what Chinese President Xi Jinping proposed at last year's summit. It is necessary to accelerate the construction of the vaccine R&D center, carry out production cooperation and help bridge the global vaccine divide.

As some U.S. politicians are peddling the so-called "Wuhan lab leak" theory in order to politicize the origins-tracing of the virus, the BRICS countries should jointly reject such ill-founded conspiracy theories and support a scientific and fact-based approach to solving the mystery of the disease.

The BRICS countries should also work together to further stimulate global economic rehabilitation. At the moment, the pandemic is accelerating the widening of the North-South development gap. Thus, the BRICS members should step up macroeconomic policy coordination, and collectively stabilize the global industrial and supply chains.

An open, fair and non-discriminatory business environment will not only benefit the BRICS members, but also the whole world. Thus the five leading emerging economies need to enhance global trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and oppose all forms of trade protectionism.

They also need to defend the world's present multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at its core, which involves endorsing necessary reforms to the organization, and pushing for an earlier settlement of the WTO's Appellate Body crisis.

With common goals for high-quality and more sustainable development, the BRICS countries should fully implement the Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2025, and strengthen practical cooperation and exchanges on e-commerce, services trade, intellectual property rights protection, green development and other fledging fields.

Last but not least, the BRICS members should also stand together to uphold true multilateralism on the world stage.

Multilateralism is an important cornerstone of the existing international system. Yet this cornerstone is being eroded as some Western countries are seeking to form exclusive clubs out of self-interest in the name of multilateralism. Those are hegemonic moves and unilateral actions in disguise, and should be opposed.

The BRICS group includes five countries with diverse political systems and cultures, of different sizes and on four different continents. With major projects like the New Development Bank and BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution innovation center, the framework itself is a successful example of multilateralism and proves that win-win cooperation based on mutual respect can transcend ideological differences and bear fruits.

Throughout the years, the framework has also inspired emerging countries on how differences can be shelved for common development and how to advance South-South cooperation.

Xi once compared the BRICS economies to the five fingers of a hand, saying they are "short and long if extended, but a powerful fist if clenched together."

Looking into the future, as long as the BRICS members can stick together through thick and thin, they can not only achieve greater development for themselves, but always help make this world a better place.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
China, Maldives enjoy mutual, tangible benefits from BRI cooperation: Chinese envoy

Xinhua) 16:24, September 09, 2021

MALE, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- China's new Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin has said that China and the Maldives enjoy mutual and tangible benefits from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation.

In a recent interview with local and Chinese media, Wang cited the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the expansion and upgrading of Velana International Airport, and the construction of 7,000 social housing units in Hulhumale as examples of the successful projects of bilateral BRI cooperation.

The Chinese envoy noted that China and the Maldives have enjoyed mutual understanding and respect since the establishment of their diplomatic ties in 1972.

She added that China would like to work with the Maldives to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties in 2022.

In the interview, Wang expressed gratitude for the Maldivian people's support for China-Maldives relations while calling for their further efforts to deepen the traditional friendship and "strengthen practical cooperation in various fields".

The China-Maldives ties have remained resilient in the COVID-19 pandemic and "China will continue to provide the Maldives with vaccines to help fight against COVID-19," Wang said.

The Chinese ambassador also congratulated Abdulla Shahid, the foreign minister of the Maldives, on his election as the president of the upcoming 76th session of the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA).

"China highly appreciates the Maldives' firm support on issues concerning China's core interests. China will, as always, provide support to the Maldives," Wang said.

When replying questions, she also noted that the Communist Party of China (CPC), which has made happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation of the Chinese nation its abiding goals, is leading China in marching towards the goal of building China into a great modern socialist country.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Xi's proposals for deepening BRICS partnership

Xinhua) 16:38, September 09, 2021

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has been advocating deepening the partnership among BRICS countries, and has put forward manifold proposals in this regard on various international occasions.

The 13th BRICS summit is about to kick off on Thursday. The following are some of Xi's proposals for strengthening the partnership among the emerging-market bloc that groups Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Nov. 17, 2020

Addressing the 12th BRICS summit via video link in Beijing, Xi called on BRICS countries to uphold multilateralism and work in solidarity to overcome global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and a virus-hit world economy.

Xi said China will work with other parties to flesh out the BRICS partnership on the new industrial revolution at a faster pace, citing upcoming measures including the launch of an innovation center in Xiamen, Fujian Province, for such partnership.

"When the wind is strong and the tides are high, we must be even more focused on our direction. We must keep pace and work as a team to break the waves and navigate steadily toward a brighter future," Xi said in his speech.

Nov. 14, 2019

In a speech entitled "Together for a New Chapter in BRICS Cooperation" at the 11th summit of BRICS in Brasilia, capital of Brazil, Xi said the BRICS countries should grasp the trend of the times, respond to the call of the people, and shoulder their responsibilities.

BRICS countries should work to foster a security environment of peace and stability, he said, urging the five members to safeguard peace and development for all, uphold fairness and justice, and promote win-win results.

BRICS countries should also maintain close strategic communication and coordination and speak in one voice for a more just and equitable international order, he added.

July 26, 2018

At the Plenary Session of the 10th BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Xi urged BRICS countries to deepen strategic partnership and work to open up a second "Golden Decade."

"Let us work together with the rest of the international community for an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity," said the Chinese president in a speech titled "Turn Our Vision into a Reality."

"We should call on all parties to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations and to settle disputes through dialogue and differences through consultation," Xi said, adding that the BRICS should jointly work for a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, equality, justice and win-win cooperation.

Sept. 4, 2017

When addressing the ninth BRICS summit in the southeastern Chinese city of Xiamen, Xi said the five countries should find areas where their respective development policies and priorities converge, and work to build a big market for trade and investment, achieve smooth flow of currency and finance, and realize infrastructure connectivity.

"Despite our differences in national conditions, our five countries are in a similar stage of development and share the same development goals. We all face an arduous task in growing the economy," Xi noted.

"With a focus on structural reform and sustainable development, we need to expand our converging interests and share experience on innovation, entrepreneurship, industrial development and production capacity to boost our economic development," said Xi.

Oct. 16, 2016

At the eighth BRICS summit in the western Indian state of Goa, Xi said BRICS countries should take the lead in opening-up and international cooperation by prioritizing such sectors as economy and trade, financial circulation, infrastructure connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.

The Chinese leader urged the five countries to strengthen coordination and communication in major international issues and regional hot issues, in a bid to jointly tackle global challenges such as natural disasters, climate change, infectious diseases and terrorism.

July 9, 2015

At the seventh BRICS summit in the southwestern Russian city of Ufa, Xi called on BRICS countries to build a four-pronged partnership -- safeguarding world peace, boosting common development, promoting diversified civilization and strengthening global economic governance.

July 15, 2014

In a speech at the sixth BRICS summit held in Brazil, Xi said BRICS countries should carry forward the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, and develop a closer, more comprehensive and more solid partnership.

March 27, 2013

When attending the fifth BRICS summit in South Africa, Xi said BRICS countries should forge a strong bond among them through building this partnership, and work hard to push forward cooperation in economy and trade, finance, infrastructure, movement of people and other fields.

"No matter how the international situation may change, we should stay committed to pursuing peaceful development and win-win cooperation," he said.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
Spanning four continents, a glimpse of civilizations through gold masks

Xinhua) 16:47, September 09, 2021

Photo taken on Sept. 2, 2021 shows a golden mask discovered at the No. 3 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province. More than 500 pieces of relics have been discovered in recent months at the legendary Sanxingdui Ruins site, dazzling archaeologists with their historical value as well as the display of creativity and ingenuity. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese archaeologists announced Thursday that new discoveries have been made at the legendary Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

Among hundreds of major findings in the No. 3 sacrificial pit, a complete gold mask dating back about 3,000 years has attracted worldwide attention.

The newly found mask measures 16.5 cm high and 37.2 cm wide, and weighs around 100 grams, larger but lighter than the broken gold mask unearthed from the No. 5 pit earlier this year, according to the Sichuan Provincial Cultural Relics and Archaeology Research Institute.

Experts believe that the findings will shed more light on the ancient Shu civilization and promote exchanges and mutual learning between different civilizations.

NEW ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDINGS

When the gold mask was found in No. 3 sacrificial pit in June, the relic was covered in mud. The heavily deformed goldware was crumpled into a ball like a piece of manuscript paper and its shape was indistinguishable.

Chinese archaeologists took it out carefully. After preliminary cleaning and unfolding, a pair of big eyes appeared. It turns out to be a gold mask, one of the largest face masks in the ancient Shu civilization unearthed so far.

Ran Honglin, a researcher with the Sichuan Provincial Cultural Relics and Archaeology Research Institute, is in charge of the excavations in the Sanxingdui Ruins site.

"According to our observations, the facial features and size of the gold foil mask are similar to those of the bronze heads of Sanxingdui. We speculate that this gold mask is not an independently used artifact, but is used to cover the bronze head," said the expert.

Ran added that in terms of craftsmanship, the mask has not been remelted or recast. Gold is highly malleable, and can be hammered into thin sheets and then inlaid into its desired shape.

So far, archaeologists have unearthed various important cultural items, including pieces of gold masks, bronze ware, jade and ivories.

The Sanxingdui Ruins site was accidentally discovered by a farmer when he was digging a ditch in the 1920s. Covering 12 square km, the ruins are located in the city of Guanghan, about 60 km from Chengdu, and are believed to be the remnants of the Shu Kingdom, dating back at least 4,800 years and lasting over 2,000 years.

In 1986, a large number of unique relics were unearthed in the No. 1 and No. 2 pits, drawing global attention. So far, more than 50,000 pieces of relics have been unearthed at Sanxingdui.

GOLD MASKS AND ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

The ancients in different civilizations have forged masks from gold. Apart from the gold masks in the ancient Shu civilization, the mask of Agamemnon discovered at the ancient Greek site of Mycenae, the mask of Tutankhamun in ancient Egypt and the mask of the Aztec god Xipe Totec are world-renowned works of art and prominent symbols of their respective civilizations.

"People in ancient Egypt especially worshipped the sun god. Wearing a gold mask, one would have the same appearance as the sun god. There is also the worship of the sun god in South America. It also explains the origin of the gold mask in Greece, as the sun god is a major god in Greek mythology," said Li Xinwei, a researcher with the Institute of Archaeology under the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.

"It's quite likely that the ancient Shu civilization also worshipped the sun. As gold was valued by the civilization and used to forge masks, it may be related to such worship," Li added.

Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass also believes that gold is a representation of the sun. "Gold is always connected with the sun god and also in China, it's connected with the religious beliefs."

Instead of gifts to the gods, the masks of Mycenae were offerings to the deceased, Constantinos Paschalidis, curator of Antiquities at the National Archaeological Museum, told Xinhua in an interview.

Paschalidis noted that the Mycenaen death-masks are very precious and rare objects which were created for very important people.

The sheets of pure gold of some 24 carats in today's terms were hammered from the backside. The repousse technique was used to form the shape, according to Paschalidis.

Mexican archaeologist Edith Ortiz Diaz also pointed out the similarities in the craftsmanship of gold masks in different ancient civilizations.

"We can say that, from the point of view of goldsmiths, this marks the initial advances in metalworking. First grinding, then beating the metal to form a sheet," she said.

MUTUAL LEARNING BETWEEN CIVILIZATIONS

Experts from different parts of the world warmly welcomed the latest archaeological discovery at the Sanxingdui Ruins site, noting that the recent findings are "great news" for the global archaeological community.

"The discovery of the gold mask in China is one of the most important discoveries of the 21st century," Hawass said.

Although there are countless mysteries about how ancient civilizations communicated with each other, archaeologists believe that the new discoveries in Sanxingdui will promote the global archaeological community to conduct more in-depth research and investigation and to trace the development of ancient civilizations.

"This is a great great event. Although China, the Aegean and Mycenae are very far away, and we cannot have a direct connection between them, one may see that this is more or less a huge archaeological discovery. And it is a huge joy and a cause for celebration for archaeologists all over the world," Paschalidis said.

Li has been deeply involved in cross-cultural research and committed to archaeological cooperation with foreign counterparts. Li noted that he often marvels at the splendid civilizations of other countries and regions.

"Clashes are a requisite for the birth of civilizations. As civilizations evolve, clashes and fusions prove even more essential. We should eulogize these civilizations and respect the unique development path of each one," he said.

"Only with such an approach to different civilizations can we build a community with a shared future for mankind," noted the Chinese expert.

(Web editor: Xia Peiyao, Liang Jun)
HEFEI, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- A cargo flight route linking Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province, and London was launched Tuesday.

A signing ceremony of a cooperation agreement on the flight was held in Hefei Tuesday, marking the official opening of the route.

The air freight route, coordinated by JD Logistics, Inc., the delivery arm of e-commerce giant JD.com, is expected to fill in the gap of cargo flight between Anhui and Europe, and meet the demand of air logistics from Hefei and its surrounding areas to Europe.

More international air routes will be launched in the next two years, linking Hefei with Japan, the Republic of Korea and countries in South America and East Europe, according to JD Logistics, Inc.

The total foreign trade of Anhui reached 376.6 billion yuan (about 58.3 billion U.S. dollars) in the first seven months of 2021, up 27.1 percent year on year, local customs data showed. Enditem




Anhui's foreign trade soared 21 percent year-on-year to 61.44 billion yuan ($9.51 billion) in August, hitting a record high on a monthly basis, local customs said.

The eastern Chinese provinces exports stood at 36.27 billion yuan, up 17.5 percent, while its imports rose 26.6 percent to 25.17 billion yuan.

In the first eight months of the year, the provinces imports and exports totaled 438.71 billion yuan, up 26.4 percent from the same period a year ago. The growth rate was higher than the national average of 23.7 percent.

Exports increased 26.4 percent to 255.18 billion yuan during the Jan-Aug period, 3.2 percentage points higher than the national average. Meanwhile, imports grew 26.5 percent to 183.53 billion yuan, compared to the national 24.3 percent.

Chinas foreign trade increased 23.7 percent year-on-year to 24.78 trillion yuan between January and August, largely benefiting from the worlds growing demand for high-value-added and labor-intensive products, China Daily said, citing experts and business leaders.




By Li Wei

Americas global anti-terrorist operations after 911 have not really curbed the rampant terrorist activities. As its military counterterrorism approach has left one mess after another around the world, now, out of selfish interests, it is shifting its strategic focus to major-country competition, bent on creating more new troubles.

US becomes humanitarian crisis maker in pursuit of self-interests under the name of counterterrorism

The US was the victim of the 911 terrorist attack, yet, as it turns out, it has turned itself into the victimizer that forces American democracy upon other countries in the name of counterterrorism. Its anti-terror operations, partly to serve its own purposes, havent really put a brake on terrorism but have instead created more troubles for the world and more space for terrorist activities.

The US-waged Afghan war might carry some anti-terror elements in the beginning, but it deviated from the original path after US troops destroyed al-Qaedas training camps in Afghanistan and killed Bin Laden. For one thing, it tried to support a regime in Afghanistan that adopted American-style democracy, which quickly toppled when the 20-year-long war came to an end, even before the US troops were fully withdrawn. For another, what the US troops were up against in Afghanistan were not terrorist organizations, but the Taliban.

The US launched the anti-terror war in Afghanistan in order to bring up a pro-America regime and therefore obtain the strategic geopolitical advantage of containing surrounding countries. The result cannot be clearer: Afghanistan becomes the hotbed of terrorism, the country is in endless chaos, and the people there are living in dire agony.

What was worse, the US launched the second Iraqi war in 2003 still in the name of counterterrorism. To overthrow the Saddam regime and implement the so-called democratic reform of the Middle Eastern country, Washington even fabricated such false intelligence that Iraq possessed weapons of massive destruction and had connections with al-Qaeda. The war not only destroyed Iraq but also gave birth to Islamic State (IS), which has seriously damaged the national security of Iraq and Syria and become the bellwether of global terrorism, posing grave terrorist threats to the international community.

In addition, the US-led NATO has militarily interfered in the Libyan situation, leaving the country in the grip of battles among tribal warlords and its people in defenseless misery. The US also launched armed attacks against Syria to overthrow the current government thats not to its liking, leaving the country in a protracted civil war and peoples lives always on the line.

Its clear to all that the US, for its own interests, has gone amuck interfering in the internal affairs of other countries under the pretext of counterterrorism. It is not only a trouble maker but also a maker of refugees and humanitarian crises.

From counterterrorism to major-country competition, America creates unrest around the globe

The American hegemony is all but exhausted. Washington is so anxious to maintain it that it has shifted its strategic focus from counterterrorism to major-country competition.

However, the old way of maintaining hegemony with military strength has come to a dead end. Since the US was founded over 200 years ago, it has waged or participated in more than 200 wars, and its military operations more and more end up in crushing defeat, as well proved by the fiasco in Afghanistan.

On the other hand, American-style democracy is no longer viewed as the universal truth. Many developing countries that were under the colonial rule of the US-led West were forced to accept the American democratic system after gaining independence, but the political superstructure was so incongruous with the economic foundation that many of them have been plagued by constant turmoil and economic stagnation. A growing number of developing countries have realized western democracy cannot save them.

Refusing to accept its falling domination, the US thinks its the emerging countries rapid development that has challenged its superpower position, so after its international anti-terrorist operations have hit the wall, more than once, it decided to turn its eyes to China and Russia. While Washington cannot wait to veer from the anti-terror road, international terrorist forces centered on al-Qaeda and IS havent veered and continued to take the US as their arch target. In other words, Americas wrongdoings in counterterrorism have exposed its people to terrorist attacks.

The only way to uproot the soil that breeds and spreads terrorism is improving peoples lives through development. Only when we base our actions on the overall interests of the world can we fundamentally solve the terrorist issue facing the international community. Those at Capitol Hill must realize that the age of unilateralism is gone for good.

(The author is a researcher from the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations)

Editor's note: This article is originally published on haiwainet.cn, and is translated from Chinese into English and edited by the China Military Online. The information, ideas or opinions appearing in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of eng.chinamil.com.cn.
Members of an assessment team from the UNIFIL Headquarters inspect the communication facilities of the 20th Chinese peacekeeping engineering contingent to Lebanon on September 7, 2021.

BEIRUT, Sept. 9 -- On September 7, local time, Beirut, the 20th Chinese peacekeeping engineering contingent to Lebanon passed with high standards the military capability assessment of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), which is the first military capability assessment the contingent has received since its deployment to the mission area in south Lebanon last month.

The assessment team is composed of personnel from seven departments of the UNIFIL Headquarters. In light of the increasingly complex security situation in the mission area as affected by the Covid-19 epidemic, domestic economy collapse and long-term anarchy in Lebanon, the inspection team conducted a special inspection of the contingents plans for epidemic prevention and emergency response. It acknowledged and affirmed the professionalism and military capabilities of Chinese peacekeepers, and wished success for their following missions.

The military capability assessment is designed to assess whether the peacekeeping forces have the ability to carry out peacekeeping operations and deal with emergencies effectively. The assessment involves a wide range of subjects, including 99 items in seven categories, such as combat training, armaments and equipment management and logistics support. Passing the assessment indicates that the contingent is fully capable of carrying out the UN assigned missions.

According to Li Guanglei, deputy leader of the 20th Chinese peacekeeping engineering contingent to Lebanon, the contingent will undergo examinations for the mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) qualifications, as well as equipment inspections of the UNIFIL .

The Chinese peacekeepers will always keep high professionalism in fulfilling missions, in an effort to make positive contributions to jointly creating peace and stability in southern Lebanon, Li said.
Former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani said Wednesday he fled his country last month for the United Arab Emirates to avoid bloodshed in the streets of the capital of Kabul as Taliban insurgents took control. He denied plundering government funds as he left.

"I left at the urging of palace security, who advised me that to remain risked setting off the same horrific street-to-street fighting the city had suffered during the civil war of the 1990s," Ghani said in a statement. "Leaving Kabul was the most difficult decision of my life, but I believed it was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her 6 million citizens."

The 72-year-old Ghani said he had worked for 20 years to create a democratic government in Afghanistan but acknowledged he had failed to ensure "stability and prosperity," the same outcome as for other Afghan governments for decades. The UAE said it welcomed Ghani "on humanitarian grounds."
Blinken agreed to testify before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee next Tuesday, although other congressional committees are likely to investigate the withdrawal as well.

The criticism was especially pronounced after 13 U.S. service members died in a suicide bomb attack at the Kabul airport in the waning days of the withdrawal. Islamic State-Khorasan, an Afghan offshoot of the terrorist group operating in the Middle East, claimed responsibility for the attack.

Opposition Republican lawmakers and some Democratic colleagues of President Joe Biden have attacked his handling of the withdrawal of troops, American citizens and thousands of Afghans who worked for U.S. forces as interpreters and advisers during the war.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has agreed to testify next week before a congressional panel examining the country's chaotic military withdrawal from Afghanistan at the end of its two-decade war, the longest in U.S. history.

The formal withdrawal ended more than a week ago, but about 100 Americans remain in Afghanistan, with U.S. officials vowing to help them get out if they want to leave. Thousands of Afghans are also looking to move to the United States or other countries to escape life under Taliban insurgents who took control of the country.

National polls of U.S. voters show wide support for Biden's decision to end what he has called a "forever war" in Afghanistan, but not the way the withdrawal unfolded.

Blinken, the top U.S. diplomat, is likely to face tough questions about why the U.S. did not start evacuating American citizens sooner, especially since Biden announced his intention in April to honor former president Donald Trump's agreement with the Taliban to end the war and withdraw American forces.

Lawmakers have also attacked U.S. intelligence-gathering for failing to forecast the rapid takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban and the collapse of the Afghan government, with President Ashraf Ghani suddenly fleeing to political asylum in the United Arab Emirates.

Republicans say they want to focus their questioning on Biden's performance in the final weeks and days of the war, while Democrats are hoping to examine the whole of the American war effort that was conducted under four presidents -- Republicans George W. Bush and Trump, and Democrats Barack Obama and Biden.

Bush launched the war in late 2001 to eradicate al-Qaeda terrorist training grounds where the September 11 attacks against the U.S. were spawned. Nearly 3,000 people were killed in the U.S in attacks using hijacked U.S. passenger airliners. The 20th anniversary of the attacks is on Saturday.

Biden has called the withdrawal an "extraordinary success" and defended the decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan, saying he would not pass on responsibility for managing U.S. military involvement there to a fifth U.S. leader.
Hyundai, Lotte, POSCO and nine other major conglomerates on Wednesday launched an alliance to foster hydrogen energy for the future. The alliance aims to curb climate change as the global hydrogen market is expected to grow to W3 quadrillion by 2050 (US$1=W1,168). To tap into that market, the 12 conglomerates agreed to invest more than W40 trillion to establish a hydrogen ecosystem from production to consumption.

Chiefs of major conglomerates pose for a photo at an event at KINTEX in Ilsan, Gyeonggi Province on Wednesday.

Their inaugural event convened at KINTEX north of Seoul with SK chairman Chey Tae-won, Hyundai chairman Chung Eui-sun, Lotte chairman Shin Dong-bin and POSCO chairman Choi Jeong-woo as well as the CEOs of Hanwha, GS, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Doosan, Hyosung and Kolon.



People gather to look at a Hyundai hydrogen truck at KINTEX in Ilsan, Gyeonggi Province on Wednesday.

Chung, who led the initiative, said, "Korea has been slow in creating a hydrogen ecosystem compared to Europe and Japan, but domestic businesses are globally competitive and more than able to achieve the task." "I hope the alliance will motivate other businesses, politicians and the financial sector," he added. Chey said, "As a new industry for Korea, the hydrogen ecosystem will contribute significantly to national growth."
The streaming platform of the world's biggest content provider said Wednesday the date has finally been decided.

Disney Plus will land like a giant space ship in Korea's streaming landscape on Nov. 12.

The service will cost W9,900 a month or W99,000 a year (US$1=W1,168). Seven people can share an account and four can watch simultaneously while on the move.

Netflix charges W9,500 a month and YouTube Premium costs W10,400.

Disney owns the Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars blockbuster franchises as well as National Geographic. In just two years since its launch, Disney Plus has burgeoned to attract 120 million subscribers worldwide compared to Netflix's 209 million.

In the second quarter of this year alone, 12 million people signed up, dwarfing Netflix's 1.54 million.

Industry watchers expect Disney Plus to grab a huge market share here with its appeal to children and young people. The local telecom partner is LG Uplus.
Some 431 people have been given expired coronavirus vaccines and several complained of side effects, according to health authorities.

But the side effects were mild, including muscle aches, chills and slight fever, authorities said. Most were given expired Pfizer vaccines and the rest AstraZeneca vaccines.

A 27-year-old man who received his first dose at Korea University Guro Hospital on Aug. 28 said he still feels pain in his armpits and chest. His worries have been mounting since he heard that the vaccine had passed its expiry date. "How can a university hospital make such a stupid mistake?" he said.
Actor Jung Woo-sung has donated W100 million for emergency relief efforts in Afghanistan, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Representative in Korea said Wednesday.

Jung, who has been working as the goodwill ambassador for the agency said he wants to "help Afghans under threats of violence and terrorism."

"Thousands of Afghans have been displaced, killed and injured," the UN has warned, as a result of the disorderly withdrawal of U.S.-led occupation forces and the takeover of the Taliban.


Psychological warfare is one of North Korea's most effective weapons, but how has it been able to manipulate South Korean governments and public opinion so effectively even though its official propaganda seems so laughable?

O Hye-son, the wife of North Korean defector and lawmaker Thae Yong-ho, explains some of leader Kim Jong-un's manipulations in a master's thesis she wrote at Ewha Womans University.

"North Korea's method of criticizing South Korea differs according to the disposition of the South's government, but the content largely remains the same," she remarks. The North is of course hostile to both conservative and liberal governments here but understands that they need to be handled differently.

Pyongyang typically takes a more openly hostile approach to conservative South Korean administrations to bring liberal public opinion here on its side, but liberal governments like the current Moon Jae-in administration are more likely to be patronized and taunted.

O analyzed the top five talking points that appeared in North Korean state media from 2012 to 2020. She found that they criticized South Korea regardless of the political views of the presidential administration when it comes to reunification policies and joint military exercises with the U.S.

But when they focus on conservative groups in the South, the North loudly slams the most rightwing factions and seems to be backing the liberals here to extend the rift between them.

"North Korea's view of South Korea remains hostile even if the government here is progressive. It wants to control South Korea and seeks to create conflict within the South."

O herself comes from an elite family in North Korea who enjoy the best connections. Her great-uncle was O Paek-ryong, a partisan who fought against the Japanese colonialists alongside North Korea founder Kim Il-sung. He later served as director of military affairs at the Workers Party. She herself worked as an English translator in North Korea's Foreign Ministry until she defected to South Korea with her husband in July 2016.
More information on the 1986 slaying of a man found dead at Canyon Lake came to light Tuesda
Since starting school in August, Comal and New Braunfels ISD schools have both had to deal with outbreaks of COVID  including some campuses r
New Braunfels, TX (78130)

Today

Morning clouds will give way to afternoon sunshine. High 92F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Generally clear skies. Low 69F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph.
Woburn, MA (01801)

Today

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low around 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 15, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) today announced an additional purchase by the U.S. government for its neutralizing antibody therapies authorized for emergency use as a treatment for COVID-19. As part of the agreement, Lilly will supply 388,000 doses of etesevimab to complement doses of bamlanivimab previously purchased by the U.S. government, with approximately 200,000 doses expected to ship Q3 2021 and the remaining to be shipped in Q4. This transaction is expected to generate approximately $330 million in revenue in the second half of 2021.
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Press Release

September 9, 2021 De Lima: Duterte has no credibility unless he discloses his SALN Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima maintains that Mr. Duterte could never gain any credibility in his defense of the anomalies behind Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation until and unless he publicly discloses his Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) which he refuses to do. "Duterte continues to hide his SALN from the people. That SALN could be hiding billions by now, but we cannot know because Duterte's appointed Ombudsman cares more about protecting corrupt public officials than the public coffers," she said. "As long as Duterte hides his SALN, he cannot prove to the public that the billions awarded to his Chinese cronies did not also find their way into his bank accounts," she added. The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has been probing the Department of Health's (DOH) pandemic funds following a Commission on Audit (COA) report that cited the deficient use of the funds in 2020 that could have bolstered the Duterte government's response to the COVID-19 crisis. A Senate hearing last August revealed that the bulk of the pandemic contracts went to Pharmally, a small company whose offices can no longer be located and that has been the government's biggest provider of medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Duterte already admitted links to all persons involved in the anomalous transactions, including his former economic adviser, Chinese businessman Michael Yang, and ex-Budget Undersecretary Lloyd Christopher Lao. De Lima stressed that the chain of corruption in the Pharmally scandal is not rocket science, noting that billions were awarded to Duterte's cronies. "Assuming even that the PPEs purchased were not overpriced, the fact that a firm close to the President has bagged the contracts already creates a presumption of undue favors given to Pharmally," she said. The lady Senator from Bicol even likened the situation with Pharmally to that of Sen. Bong Go whose family got billions in government contracts. "Apparently, plunder and Kleptocracy run in the President's official family, and the Senate and COA are the only institutions still making it hard for them in getting away with their plundered loot," De Lima said. "Paano pa kaya nakakatulog ang mga mandarambong na ito sa gitna ng pagnakaw nila sa pondong panlaban sana sa pandemya, habang patuloy na nagugutom at namamatay ang mga Pilipino? Wala na talagang sasama pa sa mga taong ito!," she added.
Press Release

September 9, 2021 Drilon: 2022 proposed nat'l budget leaves in limbo funds for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots, health workers' SRA

Drilon emphasizes the need for booster shots as vaccine efficacy wanes after six months, leaving healthcare workers vulnerable by October Senate Minority Leader Franklin M. Drilon lamented how the funds for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots and the special risk allowance of medical frontliners remain in limbo while the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) is certain to receive P28 billion funding in the proposed 2022 National Expenditures Program (NEP). Drilon explained that the administration of vaccine boosters is made necessary by the fact that the efficacy of vaccines wanes after six months, leaving the healthcare workers, who were among the first who were vaccinated in the country, vulnerable. "Will we ever reach herd immunity when the vaccines' efficacy wanes after 6 months? Ang ibig sabihin po, yung mga health workers natin na una nang nabakunahan noong Marso, ay vulnerable na ulit sa Oktubre dahil humina or humupa na ang proteksyon ng vaccine matapos ang anim na buwan. Dapat po itong lagyan ng tiyak na pondo. This being part of the unprogrammed funds is symbolic of the government's priorities" Drilon pointed out. "Nag-mutate na ang virus. Ang style ng gobyerno sana mag-mutate na din," he added. The funding for NTF-ELCAC is part of the programmed appropriation while the funds for COVID-19 booster shots in the unprogrammed fund. The unprogrammed funds may only be released when total revenues exceeded the target or through loan or aid, he noted. While the funding for the booster has been left to chance, the funding for NTF-ELCAC is guaranteed in the NEP, Drilon noted. Drilon pointed out the skewed priorities when he asked, "Ano po ang ibig sabihin nito? Ang NTF-ELCAC ay nasa programmed fund o may tiyak na pondo. Ang booster shots ay unprogrammed o mapopondohan lamang kung may labis na pera, kung sakaling kumita ang gobyerno ng sobra sa inaasahan o kung may magpautang o magbigay ng grant o aid." In the face of these challenges, the proposed investment on the health and social services sectors is grossly inadequate, according to Drilon. The government is targeting to vaccinate 70% of the population by the end of the year and 90% to reach herd immunity by 2022. But as of September 5, only 15 million individuals have been fully vaccinated, he noted. "Only when we effectively manage the threat of COVID-19 can economic activity resume. But how can we do that if we continue to disregard as we have disregarded in this budget the health sector?" Drilon said. DOH only ranks 4th in the departments that will receive the biggest budget in 2022, with P242 billion behind the Department of Public Works and Highway and the Department of Interior and Local Government that will receive P686.1 billion and P250.5 billion, respectively. "Billions are allocated for intelligence and confidential funds but we cannot even bother to take care of the health workers by funding their Special Risk Allowance. There is no line item in the budget for hazard pay. Not a single peso is allocated for our medical front liners' meals, accommodation, and transportation allowance," the minority leader said. Drilon called the P5 trillion proposed national budget the "most detached from reality" for prioritizing funding anti-insurgency against the backdrop of rising cases of COVID-19 in the country due to the spread of the Delta variant. "For the past 23 years that I have been analyzing the budget, the 2022 budget, is the most detached from reality and has the most skewed priorities," Drilon said. "Are we saying that insurgency has become a bigger, more dangerous threat than COVID-19 and its fast-mutating variant?" Drilon asked. "Why is anti-insurgency a budget priority for the next fiscal year? Are we saying that the NTF-ELCAC is more needed than our education sector?" he lamented. Amid rising incidence of hunger, Drilon also questioned why the proposed budget does not provide funds for social amelioration program or ayuda, while the budget for Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program barely increased. Drilon said the government should provide economic stimulus "in these times when our people are in such dire need."
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September 9, 2021 Quotes from Sen. Lacson's interview on ANC On 'enabler' yarn: "First let me rectify. Ang salitang enabler, galing sa dati naming kasamahan sa Senado at nag-evolve." "We are not enablers. I am not an enabler I criticize when I need to criticize. I praise when I need to praise. What's wrong with that? Ever since I started my career as a senator, personal credo ko, 'ang tama ipaglaban, ang mali labanan. What is right must be kept right, what is wrong must be set right.' What's wrong with that?" "I think that's a wrong sense of righteousness, mali man o tama kasi kasama ka sa partidong yan, doon ka nakasuporta. I'm not like that." On Anti-Terror Law hitting boundaries of civil liberties: "Ang perception, ang good law tied up mo sa bad govt perceived to be committing abuses, there you go. Ang perception nag-persist yan. But if you examine the provisons of the ATA maraming magandang madulot para maiwasan." On claims that the present administration is abusing intention of Anti-Terror Law: "It's too early to say that." "The implementation of laws passed by Congress is another thing whether it is this or past or future admin, there will be LEAs who will abuse the implementation of any law, not necessarily ATA." On corruption: "Pag double standard ang pinatutupad ng leader, you will not succeed." "It's not fair to judge them (PRRD admin) this early or at this time dahil sa pandemic. Pero ang dami na nating nakikitang lapses. At lumalabas ang issue ng corruption sa pag-procure ng medical supplies. These are very disheartening to say the least, frustrating, revolting. Amid the pandemic makikita natin bilyon bilyon ang pinagsasamantalahan, talagang nakakagalit." On DBM-PS row: "As far as we're concerned because we're exposed to documents and testimonies, pwede pagsuspetsahan na may attempt mag-cover up. Hindi pa tapos ang investigation after 1st hearing. Anong statement sa Malacanang? Itigil ng Senado ang investigation. Veiled message yan especially sa allies ng Palasyo na ang pagiimbestiga di dapat ituloy." "24 republics kami, nobody can impose on anyone among us senators. Walang isang senador pwedeng sabihan. Not even the President can tell the Senate what to do. We will exercise our mandate of oversight." "I suggested to the chairman of BRC to summon some documents. For example Minutes ng BAC sa PS DBM, di pa nakikita. Records like ITR, other documents necessary to qualify to participate in a bidding. And hindi ko lang naipresent sa last hearing, sa susunod na hearing, establish ko timelines. The moment Lao was appointed as OIC and Exe Dir of PS DBM Jan 2, Feb 4 he wrote CSC requesting for a reclassification of employees as confi employees. Fortunately denied ito ng CSC." "Ang question, bakit kailangan ang confidential employees sa isang ahensya ng govt na nagprocure? Doon pa lang kita mo na premeditated plunder. There's no such thing in or statutes. It's a phrase coined by FMD. Parang pinlano. Then by March or May pati FDA naglabas ng circular loosening requirements. Instead of requiring mag-submit ng certificate of notification, application, and so forth, naging license to operate na lang Nang makapag-deliver ang PHarmally hinigpitan na naman. Kailangan cert of product registration, etc." "In the absence of evidence we can only speculate. But if we get someone to testify or get sufficient docs to show sino ang kanyang backer, we have gone beyond the realm of speculation. But in the absence of solid evidence... we can only speculate and we can only suspect." "Inamin ni RRD yan (friendship with Yang). Anong masama sa pananaw ng utang na loob. Pero pag binigyan mo na ng favor you've given back the favor ibang usapan na yan. Pareho na dapat treatment. Pag nagkamali di mo na dapat suportahan." On possibility of syndicate behind PS-DBM row: "Apparently may sindikato na involved. We're working on something that would further open up itong kaso ng Pharmally." "We hope so. We haven't talked to the person yet. He already manifested his intention to fully cooperate." "I hope pagka nag-testify ang sinasabi ko, mag-open up lahat. Maraming mabubuksan dito. I hope chairman of BRC and my colleagues will still continue this investigation. That's all I can say now. We're waiting for developments and I hope this can open up a whole lot of info." On level of corruption in DOH/DBM: "Mind-boggling. Kasi dati nagkakaroon tayo hundreds of millions of pesos. Ngayon hindi na, tens of billions ang nawawala sa pera ng bayan. At a time may pandemic, at a time ayuda di inakakarating tapos makaakita ka ng ganito." On overpriced ambulances: "Right away the DOH officials, instead of promising an investigation to be conducted right away, justify agad nila. When I exposed that, I was trying to, di ba may adage saan nahuhuli ang isda kundi sa bibig." "Float ko ang AED, ang explanation agad, marami pang listahan ng equipment, ang contents ng ambulance. Di alam kasama sa list ng P1.5M na procured ng local govt." "We went beyond that. We got docs from PCSO na nag-procure din ng ganoong ambulance, P1.6M isang unit. Kuha kami private sector P1.6M. Sa DOH P2.5M per unit, replica of what DOH delivered in Sept 2020. LGU bumili Nov 2020. So P1M per ambulance. You can just imagine." "I'll just quote what lawyers are fond of quoting. The thing speaks for itself. Kita natin ang level ng corruption. Right now I am not ready to compare this admin with past admins, particularly before Pnoy's admin. But the level of corruption ang lumalabas isa-isa, hayaan natin na nakikita ng tao yan, kung ano level ng corruption. It runs to tens of billions of pesos ang attendant ng corruption." On RRD running for VP: "Kami ni SP Sotto, we run on our own merits. We won't delve or discuss the qualifications or disqualifications or weaknesses the other candidates have. We want to raise the level of the campaign." "Iba ang method of campaign ngayon ... Present natin what we can do. Let's not put down the other candidates." On possible Smartmatic irregularities: "There are reports we keep receiving, di lang 2019 or 2016, nagsimula ito 2010. Worrisome, bothersome ang reports na dumarating sa amin, Smartmatic may have been compromised we're looking into this." "Sino ang nasa admin? Even during the hearings in the Senate this was exposed by SP Tito. Transmission nauuna sa election. He presented documents to that effect. It is a cause not only for worry but it's a cause for alarm. If the mandate will not be respected by the govt or ang mandate ng tao di masusunod malaki problema natin. We're continuing to look into this." On F2 logistics bagging contract with Comelec, is this a concern? "Not just the area of warehousing. Maraming pwedeng magkaroon ng intervention. And we're trying to piece them together and find out how to check possible weaknesses sa election and transmission processes." "May joint congressional oversight sa elections." "Warehousing is just 1 aspect kung saan pwede magkaroon ng interventions... We're looking deeply into all these aspects na pwede magkaroon ng sabihin nating dayaan. Ang dayaan di sa precinct level or agaw balota. In this day and age of modern tech iba ang usapan, it's computerized." On supposed silence vs drug war: "That isn't true. Bakit nakakulong ang pumatay kay Kian? I spearheaded the inv in the Senate. Even earlier, I was exposing abuses by police officers, kay Kerwin Espinosa and Marcos. Who headed the investigation of those shenanigans? Ako rin. Chairman ako ng committee on public order." "Drowned out ng propaganda dahil may nag-invent ng word enabler in-attach sa akin. Pagdating sa trolls, I have a Twitter account lagi labas enabler ka. I won't admit that. Even earlier in the campaign of admin vs illegal drugs I was calling them out. Kung tama ang pag-implement sa kanilang drug war I was also supporting them especially the police where I came from. It's unfair to say earlier on wala akong ginawa at ngayon lang nagsasalita. You can go back and check the records in the Senate, I've been very consistent." "I have not been an enabler. I stick to what I think is right." On Sen de Lima: "Nasa court ang kaso. Nag-undergo ng trial. It's on record. Ako nag-file ng reso to allow LDL to participate in Senate proceedings. Not only in committee hearings but even sa session. Co-author ko riyan si FMD. Unfortunately hindi na-adopt because we're only 2 or a minority. Kung di adopted ng majority what can we do?" "This is another troll operation. Kasama ako sa pagpapahirap kay LDL. When she was granted medical furlough and PNPI was taking too much time before that cout order could be implemented, I called the camp commander. LDL knows this. She sent me a message thanking me for my effort. FMD took the cudgels and asked me being CPNP baka pwede tulungan si LDL, mauubos oras ng furlougu. When I called camp commander he went to LDL cell and informed her that same night, the court order was implemented and brought her to the hospital." On changing sentiments on RRD: "I can only speak for myself I've been very consistent. If you keep your ears close sa ground, iba narinig mo. Even common taong narinig natin, even media, even business community, nag-iiba ang sentiment. Yan narinig namin sa ground. I don't know about the others." On anti-drug war under PML admin: "Nag-usap kami ni SP. We'll take care of the fight vs illegal drugs but he'll do it more holistically. Focus ng admin masyadong law enforcement. I think we talked about this. Iba ang approach na gagawin. Maraming pwedeng gawin para labanan illegal drugs aside from law enforcement. SP knows about this" On winning over local officials na walang proyekto kasi anti-pork daw kayo? "One of my advocacies long before I have always advocated for distribution of national resources sa LGUs. Naroon ang disconnect, ang daming mayors, governors, brgy chairman sa corridors and hallways." "May disconnect, di address ng NG ang LG needs and priorities. So laging national. One of our advocacies, and we are sorting out how to implement this, bigyan ng enough funding not only for devt but to address the health concerns." "Health Facilities Enhancement Program ng DOH, ang pondo sa central govt. walang laman district hospital kasi pondo sa NG It's about time magkaroon ng redistribution. This is apart from Mandanas ruling increasing the IRA. Ang daming unused appro di nagamit because of poor planning." "Let's activate local devt councils. Only 20% ina-adopt ang ine-endorse ng RDC. Tanong ko kay then Sec Avisado bakit 20% lang? Sabi niya tama. Ginawa niya in fairness to him naglabas ng circular, kung walang encorsement ang RDC di re-release-an ng pondo. That's a good first step toward distributing resources of govt to LGUs." NTF-ELCAC asking for P28B budget: "P29-29B is a bit too much to fund NTF-ELCAC campaign vs insurgency. Sabi nila 3500 na lang armed regulars. We gave them P16.4B for 2021 na di masyadong nagamit. To make matters worse di nagagamit nang tama. There are LGUs nabigyan ng pondo, Davao City P1.5B. Mismo Mayor Sara nagsabi di kailangan yan kasi walang surrenderree. Sa Davao Norte 2000 surrenderees, zero ang NTF-ELCAC." "While it is a good concept, ang implementation again nanroon ang problema." "Sa distribution mali na. P28-29B is too much. Di nila kaya, absorptive capacity." "We have to scrutinize, look at itemized budgeting for NTF-ELCAC. And they will have to justify." Regrets supporting ATL and NTF ELCAC due to implementation? "NTF ELCAC may frustrations ako because of what I've been hearing from other LGUs." "ATL I don't have any regrets at all... a good law implemented by a bad govt that's another matter. Why blame the law itself? Maglagay tayo ng how to institute checks and balances." On whether RRD admin is a bad govt: "In terms of implementation of some laws we passed." "Generalizing this govt is also unfair. There are good things that came out of decisions made by this govt. Econ managers of admin were doing all right but we're hit by pandemic, doon nagkaroon ng diskaril." "We started hearing on budget principles. Ang projections sometimes do not jibe with existing conditions. For example 2020 ang real GDP growth rate natin -9.6, sa 2021 project sila 6-7%. So I asked SOF and Chua, how could this be viable? Galing tayo sa -9.6, project kayo 7-9 na growth. These are macroeconomic assumptions, kung mali assumption mali decision mo. A mere 1% off ka sa projection mo sa GDP growth rate that would translate to P14.7B deficit." "While delta variant is to be blamed, ang ma-blame mo rin govt response. We're not responding accordingly sa prevailing situation. To make matters worse, may corruption involved. Naroon ang problema."
Press Release

September 9, 2021 Pangilinan: Bigger agriculture budget would ease hunger, save jobs A BIGGER agriculture budget, especially during the pandemic, would ease hunger and save jobs, Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan said Thursday, noting that the massive cut in the Department of Agriculture (DA) budget despite the sector having suffered from the African swine fever and substantial job losses. "Ang ating industriya ng magbababoy, nawalan ng halos 100 bilyong piso noong isang taon dahil sa ASF. Samantala, ang budget para sa agrikultura sa 2022 ay P72 billion lamang. Kulang na kulang (Our hog industry lost almost 100 billion pesos last year due to ASF. The 2022 budget for agriculture is only P72 billion. That is really very meager)," he said. "Makakatulong ang mas mataas na budget ng agrikultura upang masiguro na hindi magugutom ang ating mga kababayan at masasalba ang mga trabaho sa sektor ng agrikultura (A bigger agriculture budget would help ensure that our people won't go hungry and jobs in the sector would be saved)," he added. The government economic team is currently briefing the Senate on the proposed 2022 national budget. The budget proposal from the DA of about P250 billion was slashed to P72 billion for DA and its attached agencies. As this includes the budget of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) the remainder of P72 billion is DA's budget. When Pangilinan asked for a clarification on the DA budget cut, Undersecretary Tina Canda of the Department of Budget Management (DBM) said that the DA was unable to comply with the requirements for the evaluation of its requested budget. The DBM said that justifications for each DA program were not submitted to the DBM. At the briefing, Economic Planning Secretary Karl Chua, citing a June-July survey, said the agriculture sector lost over a million jobs or about half of the jobs lost during the period. Pangilinan, who was Secretary of Food Security and Agricultural Modernization in the Aquino administration, said given this, government should focus on the agriculture. "Kalahati nung nawalan ng trabaho ay galing sa agri sector so dapat naman mabigyan ng kaukulang pansin sa budget yung pagsuporta sa kanila (Half of those who lost their jobs came from the agriculture sector so it should receive a proportional budget attention)," he said. Pangilinan asserts that government must be strategic in securing food for 110 million Filipinos, and increasing the budget of the Department of Agriculture should be one of the basic steps. "Eventually we should have maybe double, triple, or quadruple the agriculture budget over a period of maybe 5, 6 years kasi talagang napapag-iwanan (because it's left behind)," he said. "I remember I manifested this before. During my first term in the Senate, the budget for infrastructure combined was about P200 billion. Today it's over a trillion in a span of maybe 10-15 years. This is DOTR and DPWH. Mahalaga ang infrastructure pero mas mahalaga ang pagkain. So sana strategically pagka hinihingi yung P250 billion, eh wag naman sana P72 billion lang ang ibigay," he added.
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September 9, 2021 Poe to NEDA: Provide timely data to support PSA amendments Sen. Grace Poe asked the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to submit the necessary data on the projected impact of the proposed amendments to the Public Service Act (PSA) on covered industries such as power generation, transportation, broadcasting, and telecommunications. "Liberalizing certain sectors is going through a hurdle because of national security concerns that we have to balance with economic concerns. If you're not going to make our argument strong enough by providing data, we might not be able to get what we want from here, which is the spirit of the lawliberalizing our economy," said Poe. Poe raised that while NEDA is the lead agency assigned to the PSA, there has been feedback saying the agency's support to the crafting of the bill has been found wanting, particularly on research and data. The senator asked the agency for information on how the Philippine economy and local sectors and industries will benefit from the passage of the bill. "We will tackle the amendments by next week. If you're really serious about having a successful version of the bill passed, I think that you should give us projections for telcos, airlines, and shipping, especially the foreign ownership limits in all countries," Poe said. The President certified as urgent the immediate passage of three measures that will boost the country's economic recovery in the pandemic, one of those being the PSA. NEDA Sec. Karl Chua indicated that should the PSA be passed, there will be marked interest especially in the telecommunications and transport sectors, considering the huge gap between what the country can provide and how much it actually needs. Poe asked NEDA to be at the forefront and take responsibility in ensuring that his agency delivers due contributions to the bill to protect the public's highest interest. ______________________________________________________________________________________ [FILIPINO TRANSLATION] Poe sa NEDA: Magbigay ng napapanahong datos para suportahan ang pag-amyenda ng PSA Hiniling ni Sen. Grace Poe sa National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) na magsumite ng kinakailangang datos sa inaasahang epekto ng panukalang pag-amyenda ng Public Service Act (PSA) sa mga industriya tulad ng power generation, transportation, broadcasting at telecommunication. "Liberalizing certain sectors is going through a hurdle because of national security concerns that we have to balance with economic concerns," sabi ni Poe. "If you're not going to make our argument strong enough by providing data, we might not be able to get what we want from here, which is the spirit of the lawliberalizing our economy," dagdag pa nito. Ayon kay Poe, bagama't ang NEDA ang lead agency na nakatalaga sa PSA, may ilang punang kulang ang suporta ng ahensiya sa pagbuo ng panukala, partikular sa pananaliksik at datos. Tinanong ng senadora ang ahensiya kung paano magbebenepisyo ang ekonomiya at lokal na sektor at industriya sa pagpasa ng panukalang ito. "We will tackle the amendments by next week. If you're really serious about having a successful version of the bill passed, I think that you should give us projections for telcos, airlines, and shipping, especially the foreign ownership limits in all countries," sabi ni Poe. Nauna nang sinertipikahan ng Pangulo bilang urgent ang agarang pagpasa ng panukala na magpapalakas sa economic recovery ng bansa sa gitna ng pandemya, isa na doon ang PSA. Naunang nagpahiwatig si NEDA Sec. Karl Chua na dapat ipasa ang PSA na magbubunsod ng interes sa sektor ng telekomunikasyon at transportasyon, lalo na't malaki ang agwat sa pagitan kung paano makakapagbigay at kung gaano kalaki ang aktuwal na pangangailangan ng bansa. Hiniling din ni Poe sa NEDA na pangunahan at akuin ang responsibilidad sa pagtitiyak na maibibigay ng ahensiya ang kontribusyon nito para sa panukala upang maprotektahan ang interes ng publiko.
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Lowe is wanted for murder and is known to carry a 45 caliber weapon. Lowe should be considered armed and dangerous. He is believed to be accompanied by his girlfriend Jamia O. Robinson, 21 year old black female, five feet eleven inches tall, weighing 196 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Any information as to the whereabouts of Clarance Lowe, please contact the INV/TFO Mario Grady at 601-431-0489 or mario.grady@usdoj.gov. Lowe is considered armed and dangerous. If you have information or know the whereabouts of Lower, please call Crime Stoppers at 601-355-8477.
Moroccan social democrat party RNI won a majority of seats in the parliamentary elections held Sept.8, followed by its PAM counterpart, and conservative Istiqlal, while voters dealt a hard blow to the PJD, according to the provisional results announced by the Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit.

RNI won 97 seats, PAM 82, Istiqlal 78, socialist USFP 35, while MP took 26 seats, the UC 18 and the PJD came eighth with only 12 seats. Other parties had 12 seats.

Turnout in the legislatives indicated a renewed interest in politics. 50.35% of Moroccos electorate voted compared to 43% in 2016.

Turnout was as higher in Moroccos Sahara with 66.9% in Laayoune, 63.7% in Guelmim and 58.3 in Dakhla.

Without the new electoral law that changed the way seats are allocated on the basis of registered voters instead of casted ballot, the PJD, which fiercely opposed the adoption of this law could have won even less than 12 seats.

As soon as the counting of votes began and as it was sensing its imminent defeat, the PJD started complaining about irregularities at the polling stations.

The results signal the end of an era for the PJD which led the coalition governments in Morocco for ten years and which has now joined the club of small parties in parliament as it lost 86 constituencies nationwide since the last election of 2016, according to provisional numbers presented by the Interior Ministry.

The vote is a punishment for the PJD which failed to meet the aspirations of the people and fell short of materializing its promises.

The party was perceived as too inefficient and its leadership had disappointed by its lack of insight and proactiveness especially in the vital fields of economic and social policies.

Under the 2011 constitution, the King appoints the head of the government from the party that won most seats. This means the RNI will have to start coalition talks to form a new cabinet that has to implement the recommendations of Moroccos development model to curb poverty, inequalities and boost growth.
Sudan has confiscated a shipment of arm from Ethiopia onboard Ethiopian Airline for fear that the arsenal was destined for use in crimes against the state, reports say.

Authorities were reportedly of the arrival of a weapons shipment from Addis Ababa on an Ethiopian Airlines flight into Sudan. Customs told media that the weapons had originally been sent from Russia to Ethiopia in May 2019 and were held by authorities there for two years. Addis Ababa has informed Khartoum of the existence of the weapons which were exported by licensed arms trader.

The arrival of the shipment comes amid diplomatic tension between the two countries on two fronts namely the conflict in Ethiopias northern Tigray region and Ethiopias construction of a giant hydropower dam on the Blue Nile. Also on Wednesday, Sudan summoned Ethiopias ambassador to Khartoum after 29 bodies were found on the banks of a river which forms the border between the two states, Middle East Monitor (MEMO) reports.
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98(Recast) Roundup: Experts call for Ugandan youths to grasp opportunities in agriculture to confront pandemicPeter Muyimbo2020Muyimbo 1+120201+1 

KAMPALA, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Experts have stressed the significance of the agricultural sector and encouraged the Ugandan youths to seize opportunities to improve their life during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Agriculture is an important sector and there is a lot of money to be made. I believe that the Ugandan youths can get a lot of opportunities in agriculture in different commodities, value chains for them to realize their dreams," Antonio Querido, UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) country representative told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Querido said the youths need to consider agriculture as a business that can improve their livelihood.

A new World Bank report published recently showed that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many workers in the African country lost their jobs because of the devastating pandemic that forced businesses to close, which has pushed up the unemployment rate.

Many of them resorted to agriculture and exploitation of natural resources to fend for themselves and families.

At a rice farm run by Chinese firm Zhong Industries Limited in the central Ugandan district of Kalungu, over 1,000 employees from different parts of the country did not lose their jobs during the pandemic, said a local manager Isaac Ocen.

Querido said the government and other stakeholders should guide the youths to appreciate modern agriculture which is different from the "hand-hoe" agriculture practiced by their forefathers.

"We have more technology, more use of sophisticated machines like drones. The focus has to be on the business side of agriculture, how we manage to do agriculture that looks at what the market needs, and the return on investment will be high," Querido said.

The FAO expert also said a resilient agricultural system is critical for ensuring food and income security even when pandemics like COVID-19 hit.

With support for the youths, Querido said, they can be critical labor forces that can revolutionize agriculture to increased food supply and ensure income security.

Peter Muyimbo, an expert at Uganda's Ministry of Agriculture told Xinhua that several projects have lined up that the youths can embrace to improve their livelihood.

In the new financial year which started on July 1, Muyimbo said, Uganda and China have started the third phase of the China-Uganda South-South cooperation project through a tripartite agreement with FAO.

Through the project, small scale farmers in rural Uganda will benefit from the on-the-farm training to boost production. Chinese technicians and experts will continue to share skills and technology on the agronomic practices with local farmers. Local youths can take advantage of this project which could create a complete value chain with access to the market.

At the end of the second phase of the project in 2017, about 3,000 farmers were trained in cereals, horticulture, aquaculture and livestock in Uganda, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

The expert said Uganda can learn from China on how it transformed its economy through agriculture and dragged millions of people out of poverty at an unprecedented level.

"It is important that this population (youths) is lifted out of poverty. China has done it in the past 40 years," Muyimbo said.

Ocen said many youths who learned running rice farm from the Chinese have started their own farms because they have gained the skills of planting and harvesting the crops.

The sector has given them an opportunity, he said. Enditem

XINHUA NET Sep. 8th, 2021

 
[September 08, 2021] LiveToBeHappy, Inc. Announces New Investor Relations Partnership with Alpha IR Group CHARLOTTE, N.C., Sept. 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LiveToBeHappy, Inc. (OTCM: CAVR, soon to be LTBH), a land developer and community home builder in the Southern U.S., with a differentiating technology marketing platform, today announced a partnership with the Alpha IR Group (Alpha IR), to help the Company complete its business transformation and enhance its go-forward investor messaging and engagement strategy.

Kevin Vincent Cox, Chief Executive Officer of LiveToBeHappy, Inc. (LiveToBeHappy), commented, We continue to make strong progress in advancing our transformational M&A strategy, which will reposition LiveToBeHappy as a vertically integrated, leading real estate company with a broader footprint, more diversified revenue stream, and a differentiating technology marketing platform. To complete our strategic messaging associated with these capital markets activities, and to provide a more holistic solution for our investor relations needs post close of these transactions, we have selected the Alpha IR Group to be our advisor moving forward. We are thrilled to be partnering with a strategic investor relations firm like Alpha IR as we look to sharpen our investment brand. We look forward to the expertise and guidance that the team will provide throughout the process and as we pivot to growth. Chris Hodges, CEO & Founder of Alpha IR Group, commented, We are excited to be partnering ith a dynamic company like LiveToBeHappy, with such strong growth potential. LiveToBeHappy has an experienced leadership team with deep real estate, technology knowledge and proven backgrounds driving transformational growth and platform integration. We are confident that Alpha IRs strategic and targeted approach will be instrumental as LiveToBeHappy enhances their investor messaging and brand awareness to drive shareholder value in the future. About LiveToBeHappy, Inc.

LiveToBeHappy, Inc. is a land developer and community home builder in the Southern U.S., with a differentiating technology marketing platform. LiveToBeHappy, Inc.s wholly owned subsidiary, Sinacori Builders, is a residential land development and custom single- and multi-family home builder in Charlotte, NC. Looking forward, LiveToBeHappy, Inc. has several pending acquisitions under Letters of Intent which are expected to transform the Company into a vertically integrated real estate development company with a broader footprint and more diversified revenue stream. For more information, please visit our website at www.livetobehappy.com. About Alpha IR Group

The Alpha IR Group is a holistic investor relations and transactions/crisis advisory firm that protects, enhances and builds the investment brands of Americas leading companies. Alpha IR brings significant Wall Street, financial, and large agency experience to its clients, while retaining a small company, holistic approach. With deep sector expertise and senior-driven programs, Alpha IR is the right choice to manage its clients reputations, credibility, and ultimately, their valuation. The firm has offices in Chicago, New York, and Boston and represents over $100 billion of equity value trading on todays public exchanges. For more information, please visit: www.alpha-ir.com. Investor Contacts: Alpha IR Group

Lisa Fortuna or Sam Cohen

LTBH@alpha-ir.com



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There is lot of scope for American and Indian defence industries to go for co-production and co-development of equipment: Rajnath Singh. co-production and co-development of equipment: Rajnath Singh.
GE Renewable Energys Grid Solutions business recently commissioned the first ever fully digital high voltage substation on the African continent in Thies, 70 km from Dakar in Senegal.



This key 225 kV substation project is part of Senegals national electricity company Senelecs transmission and distribution grid expansion, reinforcement and reliability enhancement program to be completed by Vinci Energies West Africa.



This flagship project was made possible due to the robust synergy among Vinci Energies West Africa teams, the technical support of our team Omexom and the digital expertise of GEs Grid Solutions. This first ever digital substation on the continent is a great example of how to successfully combine the ongoing energy transition with a needed digital transformation to make the Senegalese electricity network more reliable and efficient, said Wassel Bouaouda, Vinci Energies.



Grids digital substation brings the flexibility of software-based applications, resulting in more opportunities for remote maintenance and upgrades. It also opens the door to a more secure and efficient exchange of data between multiple devices.



The advantages are that real-time data can be analyzed to optimize asset use and maximize system reliability. Such advantages are crucial for substations - not only to supply electricity to the homes, but also to manage the power flowing into the grid from various renewable energy sources.



Eric Amoussouga, Sales Director, GEs Grid Solutions Business, Sub-Saharan Africa, said: A digital substations advanced functionalities with its footprint reduced by up to 50% as well as accelerated deployment are a key enabler of the energy transition.



Moreover, by replacing the copper cables with fiber-optic cables - which do not conduct electricity, this makes it safer for workers during maintenance activities. We are proud to have commissioned the first ever fully digital substation in Africa, contributing to the increased reliability of Senegals electricity grid.



The project contract signed between GE and Vinci Energies in 2018 included the delivery, commissioning, installation and the supervision of GEs Grid Solutions digital substation, panels, digital control system, current transducer optic and voltage transducer optic.  TradeArabia News Service
Brent is expected to regress lower from $75 per barrel (/b) in the second-quarter (Q2) to end Q3 and Q4 2021 at $73/b and $64/b, respectively, and to average $58/b in 2022, a report said.



The balancing of cyclical demand headwinds with structural supply tailwinds, points to neutral-to-bearish on oil prices for the rest of 2021, added the latest Oil Market Weekly from the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG), a leading global financial services group and one of the largest banking institutions in Japan.



Oil prices are expected to remain range bound with hesitancy to push the market in either direction for the remainder of this quarter, but near-term volatility may overshoot on both ends temporarily.



Under the weight of higher Opec+ output, steadily rising shale, the eventual return of Iranian supply, juxtaposed with a more normalised demand profile, we lean short oil further out along the curve, MUFG said in the report.



Oil prices have remained in a holding pattern for most of the thin liquidity summer period, with hesitancy to push the market in either direction.



However, as we move towards autumn, we believe that we are on the cusp of a leg lower in oil prices. Key behind our bearish oil price narrative is our conviction that the focus will shift from demand  the profile of which is becoming increasingly normalised and close to pre-virus levels  to higher supply, stemming from (i) higher Opec+ production, (ii) the eventual return of Iranian barrels, and (iii) gradually rising US shale output, the report said.



These positive supply impulses, in conjunction with the likely steady build-up of oil inventories, are set to become increasingly front of mind going forward.



Week in review and week ahead



Oil prices have remained directionless this week, maintaining a similar trend throughout the summer. Telling this week has been Brent crude slipping below its 100 day moving average, while the gap over the 50 day marker has widened  bearish signals that may prompt selling pressure.



We are tactically neutral-to-bearish for the week ahead, with attention firmly on data-driven macro trends stemming from delta variant apprehensions, and less on the micro forces of ongoing tight fundamentals, the MUFG report said.  TradeArabia News Service
The General Authority of Ports, Borders and Free Zones Security and the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) have announced that travellers from Oman can visit the UAE.

This is in conjunction with the announcement of the protocol governing those coming from the Sultanate via land crossings from September 1, Emirates news agency WAM reported.

Based on this, all those coming from Oman have to present a negative PCR test result, conducted no more than 48 hours before the date of arrival, in addition to undertaking a rapid nasal PCR swab while in the vehicle upon arrival.

Travellers will also have to take a PCR test on day four of entry if they stay four consecutive days or more, in addition to another PCR test on day eight if they stay eight consecutive days or more.

The two authorities underlined the importance of complying with all precautionary measures in place, including wearing masks, maintaining physical distance and sanitising luggage.

Those suffering from chronic diseases and individuals with Covid-19 symptoms are advised to avoid travel.

All those arriving from Oman will be guided to Covid-19 screening centres while adhering to all precautionary and preventive measures, said the two entities.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has announced updates to its Phuket Sandbox programme - which was pivotal to the Kingdoms tourism recovery  with the 'Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension'.

Following approval from the Centre for Covid-19 Situation Administration in Thailand, the programme provides fully vaccinated travellers from the Middle East with opportunities to visit multiple Thai destinations without the need to quarantine.

Launched on August 16, the programme reduces the mandatory stay in Phuket from 14 to 7 days for Mena travellers who received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. Following the initial seven days, another seven days can be spent in select destinations, including Krabi (Ko Phi Phi, Ko Ngai, or Railay), Phang-Nga (Khao Lak or Ko Yao), or Surat Thani (Samui Plus  Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, or Ko Tao).

Director of the TAT for Dubai and the Middle East, Chaiwat Tamthai, said: We are delighted that the Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension programme signifies the progress of Thailands plan to gradually reopen to fully vaccinated travellers from the region.

"The launch of the Phuket Sandbox from July 1, Samui Plus from July 15, and now Phuket Sandbox 7+7 Extension aim to inspire confidence and ensure the health and safety of visitors from the Middle East, as well as preparing more destinations for travellers to experience.

The existing entry measures in place for the Phuket Sandbox programme remain unchanged for the 7+7 extension. Travellers planning to spend another seven days in designated destinations must obtain a Transfer Form issued by their hotel in Phuket indicating that they have stayed in Phuket for seven nights, which they will need to present together with two negative Covid-19 test results - conducted on day 0 and day 6 in Phuket.

After completing the 7-night extension in Krabi, Phang-Nga and Surat Thani (Samui Plus), a Covid-19 test needs to be conducted on Day 12 to receive a Release Form from the travellers hotel in order to continue their journey to other destinations in Thailand.

If the stay in Krabi, Phang-Nga or Surat Thani (Samui+) is less than seven days, travellers must proceed directly to Phuket International Airport on the day of departure. At the port of entry back into Phuket, they will need to show a plane ticket or proof of their international travel from Phuket.

Travelling from Phuket to selected areas in Krabi, Phang-Nga, or Surat Thai is available only via approved routes and modes of transport.

While in Thailand, travellers from the Middle East are urged to follow D-M-H-T-T-A precautions to prevent the spread of Covid-19: D  Distancing, M  Mask wearing, H  Handwashing, T  Temperature check, T  Testing for Covid-19, and A  alert application.-TradeArabia News Service
Airports Council International (ACI) World has announced a major new evolution of its industry-leading Airport Service Quality programme as the third annual Customer Experience Global Summit kicked off here.

ASQ surveys measure passengers satisfaction while they are travelling through an airport and provide the research tools and management information for airports to better understand passenger views, what they can improve, and the services passengers want from them.

To ensure that this programme addresses what members and passengers need and to remains relevant and responsive to changing passenger attitudes, expectations, and needs, ACI announced to participants at the global summit a major new evolution of the ASQ Departures Survey:

New key performance indicators to better monitor the evolving customer journey;

New demographic and behavioural questions to better understand passengers needs and expectations; and

Customer emotional response will also be measured through the questionnaire to understand how this impacts their level of satisfaction with the airport experience.

New ASQ Departures Plus - offered only via tablet - will include the capacity to choose additional questions to deploy from a catalogue of pre-defined ones.

In creating these improvements, ACI has ensured that key historical data  which is so important in benchmarking performance over time  will not be lost as 70% of the KPIs are the same (or slightly improved) and the remaining 30% are new opportunities to better understand todays passenger journey.

Our Customer Experience Global Summit is all about bring industry leaders together to discuss and explore how we can continue to prioritise the voice of our customers and ensure that we continue to meet their needs, ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira said.

We are bringing a good number of delegates physically to Montreal with a hybrid meeting and we welcome the industry back to our first global summit since 2019.

ACI has evolved the ASQ programme to reflect the changing expectations of passengers to gain a deeper understanding of passenger profiles and behaviours.

More than any other time in the programmes history, this responsive approach has been important to ASQ remaining the key industry programme assisting airports to understand how to increase passenger satisfaction and improve business performance in this fast-changing landscape.

We are excited to bring the global summit back to the international aviation events calendar as it comes at a crucial time for our industry as we navigate a recovery and look to rebuild global connectivity with the customer at the heart of our plans.

We would like to thank Amadeus for the continue support provided for the ASQ Awards, and also all sponsors that helped to bring this event to the aviation community.

The third edition of ACI Worlds Customer Experience Global Summit is being held as a hybrid conference at Montreals Palais des Congres until September 9 exploring the theme Gateway to the new travel journey: Share. Rethink. Evolve. The event comprises physical and virtual elements.

-- TradeArabia News Service
Dubai national carrier Emirates has announced that it will be restarting services to Saudi Arabia from September 11 and St Petersburg from October 8.

Starting from Saturday, Emirates will begin operating 24 weekly flights to the kingdom, including daily flights to the capital Riyadh, daily A380 flights to Jeddah, daily flights to Dammam and three weekly flights to Madinah, said the statement from Emirates.

Flights to Riyadh will increase to double daily from September 16, and plans are underway to boost frequencies across the other gateways by the end of September, said the statement from Emirates.

To Riyadh, it will operate EK 2817 daily, departing Dubai at 1640hrs, landing in King Khalid International Airport at 1740hrs local time. On return, EK 2818 leaves Riyadh at 2010hrs, arriving back in Dubai at 2320hrs, said the statement.

To Jeddah, EK 2803 will depart Dubai daily at 1600hrs, landing in King Abdulaziz International Airport at 1800hrs local time. On return, EK 2804 will leave Jeddah at 2000hrs, arriving back in Dubai at 0100hrs the next day.

To Dammam, EK 2821 will take off from Dubai daily at 2050hrs, arriving at King Fahd International Airport at 2120hrs. The return flight EK 2822 will depart Dammam at 2245hrs and arrive in Dubai at 0100hrs the next day, it stated.

On Madinah operations, Emirates said the EK 2809 will fly three times weekly departs at 1630hrs and arriving at Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport at 1800hrs. On return, EK 2810 leaves Madinah at 2000hrs and is back in Dubai at 2340hrs, it added.

Starting from October 8, Emirates will boost its Russia operations with flights to St Petersburg from its hub Dubai flying four times a week, which will then become daily flights starting from October 21.

EK 173 departs Dubai at 0910hrs, arriving at St Petersburg Pulkovo Airport at 1415hrs. EK 174 leaves St Petersburg at 1645hrs, arriving back in Dubai at 2345hrs local time. EK 175 takes off from Dubai at 1545hrs, arriving in St Petersburg at 2050hrs and EK176 leaves Pulkovo Airport at 2315hrs, landing in Dubai at 0615hrs the next day.

All flights will operate on the Boeing 777-300ER in a three class configuration. Emirates flight EK 173 and 174 will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, while EK 175 and 176 will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturday and Sundays.
Help India!

The arrest of youth activist Adil Pathan has raised the question of whether the complaints recorded against him were severe and substantiated enough to subject him to the MPDA Act? Or was this an actual misuse of power and the law?

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Omer Khan | TwoCircles.net

MAHARASHTRA  The arrest of 26-year-old Adil Khan Nader Khan Pathan of Katkat Gate Maharashtra on August 15 under the stringent Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities (MPDA) Act has raised concerns about the misuse of the law in the state, with Adil Pathans lawyer and family stating that Adil Pathan was targeted because of a local political dispute.



Adil Pathan is a youth activist who joined All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM to do social work. He has completed his SSC from Iqra Boys Urdu School and HSC from Maulana Azad College of Arts, Commerce, and Science.

An order for his arrest was issued by the Commissioner of Police, Dr Nikhil Gupta on August 12.

The police, in their official statement, has said that Adil is a dangerous person to society and a potential threat to the law and order for the city in the future. The family, and lawyer of the accused, have strongly contested these claims.

According to his friends and family, he was targeted because of a local dispute between political parties. As per them, he (Pathan) is a scapegoat of the local political rivalry. The NCP (Nationalist Congress Party) and the INC (Indian National Congress) have also used the situation to trap Adil in this case, they said.

However, the police have filed five cases against Adil out of which three are pending in court. In two recent cases, which were registered in the Begumpura police station, Adil has been shown as an accused in both matters. As per reports, the Police have also recorded camera statements of two people against Adil with the condition to not to reveal their names.

Member of Parliament (MP) Imtiyaz Jaleel from AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen), who represents Aurangabad in the Parliament, visited Adil Pathans house on 17 August and spoke to his family about the case.

Adil Pathan is not a criminal. He has his democratic right to participate in public protests and rallies, MP Jaleel said, adding, There are many professional criminals that are active in the society, but unfortunately, the police is targeting only some. I dont think they (who are targeted by police) are the culprits. As far as I am concerned, instead of working under pressure from any political party, the police should work with an open mind.

MP Jaleel said that Adil Pathan was not the main accused in many of the cases but still he has been punished with the MPDA Act.

Many criminals are roaming free and a person who is not proven guilty is being arrested under the MPDA Act, he added.

According to Advocate Khizer Patel, who represents Adil Pathan, he (Pathan) has been charged with MPDA in two separate cases.

One charge is under section 160 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the second charge is when a lady lodged a complaint that many rushed into her house, tore her clothes, and scuffled with her.

In the City Chowk, Chikalthana, and Begumpura police stations, Adil Pathan has been charged with rioting, terrorizing people, endangering their lives, attempting to murder, brawling in public areas, and molestation.

Speaking on the case, Advocate Patel told TwoCircles.net that first and foremost, the woman filed the complaint only after two days. If it was so awful, why didnt she get up earlier? Second, in another instance under Section 160 of the IPC, two groups were fighting, and Adils name is recorded on the 13th number of the FIR.

Patel said that the case against Adil Pathan does not meet the requirements of the MPDA Act. According to the Act, an order can be issued against a person who uses his influence and resources to secretly organize and carry out harmful acts in violation of the law. Slumlords, bootleggers, and narcotics criminals are among them. People who directly or indirectly create or intend to cause injury, danger, alarm or a sense of insecurity in the general public or a segment of it may be held, the Act says.

This is the misuse of the MPDA act. Adil Pathan has never done anything that would define him as a dangerous person, Advocate Patel said.

Adil Pathans family said that he was targeted for his social work and his growing popularity.

Pathans uncle Shera Khan said that Adil has been doing social work and assisting those in need. Adil has aided a large number of people in his community, he said.

Rebutting the police claims that Adil engages in extortion, Khan said everyone in the locality adores him and have no issues against him.

Khan said that Pathan has accomplished a lot in a short span of time. It was because of the social work that he decided to enter politics. He was also planning to run in local ward elections and his popularity was growing quickly, which could be why he was targeted, Khan said.

Pertinently, in the past ten months, the city police have detained eight people under the stringent MPDA Act. Shaikh Gaffar alias Bablu Shaikh Sattar, Pawan Ishwarlal Jaiswal, Baban alias Gabrya Bhagaji Makle, Amol Vaijanath Galate alias Galhate, Anil Ambadas Malwe, Shaikh Chand Pasha P Shaikh Naeem, Syed Sharif Syed Musa, and Adil Khan Nader Khan Pathan are among the people apprehended by CP Dr Gupta from October 3, 2020, to August 15, 2021.

MPDA Act went into effect on June 11, 1981, after being passed by the state government. The Act enables the district magistrate and the commissioner of police to use MPDA provisions to detain someone who, in their opinion, is acting in a way that endangers public order. Under the Act, each of these two bodies has the authority to issue an order mandating the detention of such a person.

From Harsul prison, Adil Pathan has sent a letter to his family asking for support and calling the case against him bogus.

Dear brothers, I truly need you all today. My adversaries, in collaboration with the police, have ensnared me in a major investigation. The MPDA case that they have filed against me is completely bogus. They informed me that I am a big goon in the city that does extortion, looting with a weapon, and abduction, and the people are also afraid to file a complaint against me. But I am fine and will continue to help others. God is on my side, the letter, a copy of which is with TwoCircles.net, states.

Adil Pathans arrest has raised the question of whether the complaints recorded against him were severe and substantiated enough to subject him to the MPDA Act? Or was this an actual misuse of power and the law?
Children with face mask back at school after covid-19 quarantine and lockdown.

Getty

Pediatric coronavirus cases are surging as children return to classrooms across the country.

On Tuesday, The American Academy of Pediatrics announced that about 252,000 cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the past week, from Aug. 26 to Sept. 2. The figure marks the largest number of weekly confirmed cases in the age group since the pandemic began.

After experiencing a dip earlier this summer, cases of the viral disease in children "have increased exponentially," the AAP said. For example, from Aug. 5 through Sept. 2, over 750,000 cases of COVID-19 were reported among kids.

Citing data available as of Sept. 2, the medical association added that children have made up 15.1% of total cumulated cases of COVID-19.

Students in Wendy Verrall second grade class make their hand into a smile to show they are happy, since their mouths are covered, during the first day of class at Tustin Ranch Elementary School in Tustin, CA on Wednesday, August 11, 2021.

Paul Bersebach/MediaNews Group/Orange County Register via Getty

RELATED: Over 80 Nev. Students Potentially Exposed to COVID After a Parent Sent Their Sick Child to School

While most children who catch COVID-19 do not experience severe symptoms, a record high of almost 2,400 children were hospitalized with the virus between Aug. 26 and Sept. 2, according to data from The Washington Post.

The AAP stated in their recent report that "severe illness due to COVID-19 is uncommon among children," but stressed the need for further research to determine possible side effects in young patients.

"There is an urgent need to collect more data on longer-term impacts of the pandemic on children, including ways the virus may harm the long-term physical health of infected children, as well as its emotional and mental health effects," the academy said.

COVID-19 vaccines are not currently approved for children under the age of 12. While those 12 and up are eligible to receive the inoculation at this time, "vaccination coverage among children ages 12-17 years is lower than in older groups," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

RELATED: Children Hospitalized for COVID Hit Record High in the U.S. This Weekend, per HHS Data

Story continues

As of Wednesday, the CDC reports that 62.3% of the U.S. population 12 years and older is currently fully vaccinated. 64.3% of Americans 18 and up are also fully vaccinated, and 82.1% of Americans age 65 or older are as well.

The spike in pediatric COVID-19 cases comes as many students begin a new school year where mask mandates remain a divisive issue in some places. Texas  where Gov. Greg Abbott has banned mask mandates in schools  has seen the highest rates of children hospitalized with the coronavirus, per ABC News.

"We're calling this the fourth wave ... but it has certainly been by far the most impactful surge -- really hitting children and adolescents," Dr. James Versalovic, pathologist-in-chief at Texas Children's Hospital, told the outlet Tuesday.
The Assyrian Church of the East Elects New Patriarch

Bishop Awa Royel, the Patriarch-Elect of the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East. The Assyrian Church of the East on Wednesday elected their new patriarch in Erbil after Mar Gewargis III Sliwa stepped down due to health reasons.

The church on Wednesday elected Mar Awa Royel as the new patriarch in a ceremony held in St. John the Baptist Church in Erbil's Ainkawa neighborhood.

"We believe that the patriarchal election is a gift from the Lord, so therefore we depend on his blessings and the grace of God and the prayers of the faithful. That is a very sublime and very high responsibility, but the Lord gives it as he wills," Royel told Rudaw after his election.

"The Assyrian Church would like to stress the fact that our roots are here in Iraq, and in this blessed land, in the region as well," he added.

In 1933, the seat of the Assyrian Church was moved from the Middle East to the United States. In 2006, construction of a new patriarch began in Erbil and the election of Royel's predecessor saw the return of the authority of the church to the place of its roots.

"By bringing back the patriarchal sees, since 2015 with the election of his holiness Mar Gewargis and now with this election, the church wants to stress that our roots are here and we will keep them here by the grace of God, so that our church and our people can remain and continue to keep their heritage, and their language, and their culture and civilization," he said.

Gewargis had expressed his intention to step down in February of 2020 due to health reasons, but election of his successor was delayed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Gewargis welcomed Pope Francis to Erbil in his historic visit to Iraq in March.

Royel previously served as bishop, presiding over the diocese of California. He was the first American-born bishop of the Assyrian Church of the East. He had also served as secretary of the Holy Synod of the church since 2015.

There are only a few hundred thousand Christians left in Iraq. Following the US-led invasion of 2003, sectarian warfare prompted followers of Iraq's multiple Christian denominations to flee, and attacks by the Islamic State group (ISIS) in 2014 hit minority communities especially hard. According to data from Erbil's Chaldean Archbishop Bashar Warda, there were more than one million Christians in Iraq before 2003. Fewer than 300,000 remain today, many of them reside in the Kurdistan Region.

Additional reporting by Farhad Dolamari.
by Melani Manel Perera

Sri Lankan Catholics cannot yet meet for Mass due to the risk of contagion. Yesterday, Catholic associations took turns in reciting the rosary online. The vaccination campaign is proceeding but some 3,000 new cases were reported today.

Colombo (AsiaNews)  At the request of the Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcom Ranjith, Sri Lankas Catholics marked Mary's birthday yesterday with a day of prayer.

Writing on social media on Monday, he asked the faithful to celebrate the feast of Our Lady with a day of prayer seeking intercession to save our country and the entire world from the COVID-19 epidemic.

I want all of you to say the rosary, recite the litany of Mother Mary, and fast without eating meat, he said.

Under current restrictions, Sri Lankan Catholics are still unable to meet for Mass. Consequently, the archdiocesan faith team prepared materials in Sinhala, Tamil and English to enable families to pray at home.

From noon to midnight, Catholic associations alternated in the recitation of the rosary, repeating the invocation "Save our Motherland and the entire world from COVID-19, Amma (mother)! Catholic school children also joined in prayer.

Sugandhi Fernando, a teacher at the Holy Family Convent in Bambalapitiya, told AsiaNews that she was very happy [with the initiative] even though the prayers were held online.

The children arranged a small altar for Mother Mary and prepared birthday cards too, she explained.

Dr Hemantha Herath, deputy director general of health services, said the current pandemic situation in the country does not allow schools to reopen.

Students who are scheduled to sit for exams will have to be vaccinated as soon as possible.

Since the start of the pandemic, 10,689 deaths have been reported in the country. Today the epidemiology unit of the Ministry of Health reported 2,917 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total number of active cases to 74,122.
by Shafique Khokhar

During Sunday service, a group of Muslims opened fire and attacked Christian homes. For the secretary general of the Pakistan Minority Rights Commission, great efforts are being made to protect minorities, yet violence is increasing.

Lahore (AsiaNews)  Christians were attacked once again last Sunday. The targets were a Pentecostal church, The New Hope Church of Pakistan, in Sheracote, a district in Lahore, and the homes of some faithful.

A group of Muslims opened fire during Sunday service at 2.30 pm, injuring several people, both men and women. A pregnant woman was among the victims; for some, the injuries are life threatening.

I was cleaning a room when suddenly I heard shots coming from the street. I fainted for a while, said Rukhsana Bibi, one of the victims of the attack.

After regaining consciousness, I remembered my three-year-old son was playing in the courtyard. I ran out to him. While I was rescuing my son, a stone broke a window and a piece of glass injured my hand.

According to witness accounts, Christians, especially women in Sheracote, had been the victims of harassment in previous days; families going to church were mocked and insulted with offensive language.

Last Sunday, things got worse, threats and insults were followed by an actual assault against the church and homes.

The attackers had military-style weapons and fired directly at the houses, said Christian journalist Simon Aleem. They wounded several people, including the New Hope Church pastor, Rev Asif Nawab Masih.

Roheel Zafar Shahi, secretary general of the Pakistan Minority Rights Commission, also reacted to the incident.

The government is making great efforts to protect and safeguard minority places of worship, he said. Unfortunately, in the last three years, incidents and abuses against minorities have increased by 40 per cent.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Russian security services accuse Ukrainians of sabotaging gas pipelines near Simferopolis. Tatar activists arrested. Russians launch plans to desalinate water and guarantee water supplies to the population. Kiev wants to take back the peninsula.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - The Russian security service FSB accuses the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence of sabotaging gas pipelines in Crimea with the help of the Majlis of Tatars, considered by the Russians a terrorist organization. According to the an FSB investigation, revealed on September 7, "the sabotage took place on August 23 in the village of Perevalnoe, near the capital Simferopolis; it was carried out by the section of Ukrainian counter-intelligence stationed in Chersoneso, the so-called Tauria team.

For a payment of 2 thousand dollars each, the conspirators would have been smuggling explosives into Crimea since the end of July. The FSB arrested the Tatar activist Nariman Djeljal, accused of being the "mediator" of the operation, together with the "immediate implementers" Asan and Aziz Akhtemov.

At the end of August the Russian administration in Crimea has approved a project of seawater desalination, entrusted to the Rostekh group for 78 billion rubles (just under one billion euros); the sum should be allocated by the Moscow government. Nine hydroelectric stations were built for their operation, as revealed by the Kommersant newspaper.

After the annexation of Crimea in 2014, the Ukraine authorities closed the North Crimean freshwater canal, which supplied the entire peninsula, which has been in severe water shortage ever since. In 2013, before the conflict with the Russians, Crimea used about 727.3 million cubic meters of water for the population, agriculture and industry. Already in 2014, consumption had been reduced by four times, to 172 million, as data from the Institute of Economics and Industrial Production of the Russian Academy of Sciences attest.

The official desalination plan, which runs to 2024, calls for an investment of 9 billion rubles (103 million euros), 10 times less than the project entrusted to Rostekh. Desalination stations are very expensive in production and maintenance, and their installation could raise water rates for the population by a lot.

It is not yet clear how these projects will be financed, especially since very expensive imported machinery will be needed, not to mention that Crimea is under international sanctions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj wants to take back the peninsula, and shutting off the freshwater supply is just one means. Recently, Kiev has relaunched the discussion on Crimea internationally with the so-called "Crimean Platform", seeking support for the return of the stolen territories.

Ukrainian Deputy Premier Aleksej Reznikov, who is responsible for the reintegration of the "temporarily occupied" territories, stated a short time ago that Ukraine will deport about half a million Russian citizens after taking back Crimea. According to the calculations of the Ukrainian government, that much in fact is the number of Russians who would have moved to the peninsula from 2014 to the present. He specified that according to Ukrainian laws all of them would be "illegally" on the Crimean territory.

This is not the first such statement by members of the Kiev government, which considers Russians relocated to the peninsula "complicit in Moscow's crime." In fact, since the annexation the population of Crimea has decreased, except for a slight increase in the inhabitants of Sevastopol. For Moscow, the annexation is instead "the restoration of a historical injustice," and excludes any possibility of restitution to Ukraine.
Manila (AsiaNews) - The Philippine parliament is tackling the scourge of child brides: on September 6 the House of Representatives approved a bill banning the practice of marriages involving minors. According to the most recent data the practise affects over 800 thousand girls every year in the Southeast Asian archipelago.

In reality it is legalized sexual abuse of minors, in some cases forced to marry as young as 12 years old. This problem is particularly widespread in the region of Mindanao, the large southern island with a Muslim majority.

According to a Unicef report, nearly 20% of Filipino girls between the ages of 13 and 17 have been sexually abused. Over the past 10 years, more than 1.2 million girls between the ages of 10 and 18 have given birth to at least one child. It is estimated that every 5 minutes a woman or girl is violated in the Philippines.

Thanks to this bill, any kind of sexual assault or harassment will be punished with a sentence of 16 to 30 years in prison.

Father Shay Cullen, a 78-year-old Irishman of the St. Columba Missionaries, knows the problem well. In the Philippines since 1969, Father Shay has been at the forefront of the fight for human rights and against all forms of slavery and abuse.

In 1974, Father Shay founded the Preda Foundation (People's Recovery Empowerment Development Assistance) in the city of Olongapo, 120 km northwest of the capital Manila, where he hosts girls and young women victims of sexual violence in 5 different facilities.

I just came from a meeting with a 14-year-old girl that we are trying to save from an arranged marriage," she tells us. "Her family is protesting, saying that it is their right and that the girl has given her consent.

"It is a form of human trafficking by the parents or relatives, who for a payment or as Dowery, which can be money or animals or a piece of land give their young daughter, as young as 12 years to an older man as a live-in partner. Local government officials usually give their approval for a fee," reveals Father Shay.

"The greatest impact is not on Philippine society it is on the child, who suffers trauma for life. It is the trauma that the child suffers by being sexually abused, against her will, by a man twice or three time her age and size. For many years local officials arranged and approved the union especially if the child had been raped. The rapist agrees to pay compensation to the parents and a fee to the official for making the amicable settlement and allows the man to marry the child. It is fake relationship. This still continues today in many places. The new law will make every arrangement illegal.

Father Shay Cullen was one of the Philippine delegates to the pre-conference of the Convention on the Rights of the Child passed by the United Nations in 1989 in Helsinki. "The Philippines has come a long way," he reveals, "Awareness of a crime like paedophilia has increased, and over the years there have been numerous convictions against rapists and condescending families. Unfortunately, not enough."

That's why there is still a need for Preda and its valuable work alongside the girls who are victims of this trafficking: "It's true, the law on the age of consent (currently set at 12, ed.) is about to be changed. However, it will take years for it to be implemented and understood by the population: we are talking about a practice that is now ingrained in people's mentality".

For many years the Preda Foundation together with local NGOs have been lobbying and sensitizing the population for a faster awareness of the phenomenon. "Muslim laws have allowed the spread of this malpractice especially in the poorest and most peripheral villages," reveals Father Cullen. "How do I explain all this delay in passing the law? The only plausible explanation is that politicians are corrupt or subject to the influence of paedophile groups and have therefore allowed for 90 years a 12-year-old girl to be sexually abused by a 20-50-year-old man without any legal consequences."
He succeeds Mar Gewargis III Sliwa, who resigned in February 2020 for health reasons. The election postponed several times due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The position is a "very sublime and very high responsibility." Goals include nurturing "identity, language, culture and civilization".

Erbil (AsiaNews) - The synod of the Assyrian Church of the East, which met yesterday in Erbil, elected Mar Awa Royel as its new patriarch, succeeding Mar Gewargis III Sliwa who had resigned in February 2020 for health reasons. The solemn vote and ceremony took place in the church of St. John the Baptist in Ankawa, a Christian suburb of the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, in the north of the country.

Interviewed by the Kurdish news agency Rudaw, the new patriarch called the election "a gift from the Lord" on which "we depend" for his "blessings," along with "God's grace" and the "prayers of the faithful." "That is a very sublime and very high responsibility, but the Lord gives it as he wills." Finally, he wanted to recall "the roots" of the Assyrian Church that "are here in Iraq," in this "blessed" land and region.

In 1933, the see was moved from the Middle East to the United States because of the geopolitical situation in the region and the persecution of Christians, starting with the Assyrian-Armenian genocide that took place in World War I. The first steps toward return in 2006, with the construction of the new patriarchal see in Erbil and the election of the last patriarch, with full authority in the place where the history of the Assyrian Church originated.

By bringing back the patriarchal sees, since 2015 with the election of his holiness Mar Gewargis and now with this election, the church wants to stress that our roots are here and we will keep them here by the grace of God, so that our church and our people can remain and continue to keep their heritage, and their language, and their culture and civilization, he said.

The choice of the new patriarch has been postponed several times because of the Covid-19 pandemic, which has made it difficult to bring together the bishops and the main representatives of the Assyrian community of the East. Despite his less-than-optimal health, Gewargis himself wanted to welcome Pope Francis in person to Erbil during his historic apostolic trip to Iraq last March.

Son of the diaspora, Mar Awa David Royel was born on July 4, 1975 in Chicago, United States, and from a young age showed commitment and attachment to the local Assyrian reality. At the age of 16 he was ordained as a sub-deacon and the following year he became a full deacon. The ordination took place at the hands of Patriarch Emeritus Mar Dinkha IV. In 2008 he was elevated to the rank of bishop (the first American-born member of the Eastern Church to hold that position) of California, finally yesterday's appointment as patriarch after serving as secretary of the Synod since 2015.

The Assyrian Church of the East [Orthodox] is present in Iraq, Kuwait, Syria, the Gulf, India, the United States and Australia. Of the Eastern Syriac rite, the historic see is in Baghdad while the current one is in Erbil. Divided into 19 dioceses, it has about 330 thousand faithful scattered throughout the world.
by Steve Suwannarat

Thailand plans to arrest illegals who oppose Myanmars military junta. Myanmar refugees will be accepted only if the international community foots the bill. Hitherto, exiled Myanmar groups and media relied on Thailand, but now Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha and Myanmars strongman General Min Aung Hlain are cozying up.

Bangkok (AsiaNews)  Tensions and conflicts in Myanmar have historically found an echo in Thailand. Now however the Thai government plans to leave no room for the adversaries of Myanmars military regime.

In the past, during Myanmars long military dictatorship, Thailand has been a place of refuge for opponents. Now Thai authorities want to identify and arrest those who are illegally in the country and oppose the military junta in power in Myanmar.

Furthermore, the Thai government informed foreign embassies in Bangkok that only a few people seeking asylum in the country will be accepted and for a limited period of time, as long as the international community provides funding.

This is the usual line adopted by Thai authorities; however, for decades, Thailand accepted a large number of Myanmar refugees, mostly ethnic Karen, putting in them in nine camps along the border.

At present, they number around 130,000, many of them Thai-born, generally integrated into local communities despite the lack of rights and documents that would allow them, for example, to freely move and have access to educational, health and welfare services.

Following the election of a democratic government in Myanmar, Thailand started however to encourage their return.

Likewise, Thai authorities remained relatively tolerant towards Myanmar dissidents until recently, granting them some freedom of action against their countrys dictatorship, provided it did not involve weapons.

This included independent mass media, which were for a long time the primary source of information on Myanmar under military rule as well as during the civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi.

Recently, the situation has soured and could get worse after Myanmars self-styled government-in-exile called for military action against the ruling junta.

For Thailand in fact, the prospect of a new massive influx of refugees on the western borders remains a frightening possibility, especially in view of the pandemic situation.

Now, increased restrictions must be seen in terms of the closer relations between the militaries of Thailand (also in power albeit in a civilian cloak) and Myanmar, as well as the personal relationship between Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha, a former coup general, and the leader of Myanmars military junta, General Min Aung Hlain.
After 24 hours, the authorities released students detained during a raid against the Maizi Christian Music High School. Nothing is known of school principal Xu since he was arrested. Meanwhile, the members of the (Methodist) Mingdao Church in Fuzhou (Fujian) will soon be able to pray again in their place of worship. Since 2019 it is protected as a local heritage site.

Beijing (AsiaNews)  The authorities in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, have arrested all the staff and several students at a local music school, ChinaAid reported.

Last Saturday, more than 30 Communist officials, including special SWAT officers, police agents, and Religious Affairs officials swooped down on the Maizi Christian Music High School. Before this, police took into custody Principal Xu while he was taking his child to school.

During the raid, school assets, including pianos, computers, and documents, were seized. The students were released after 24 hours. Staff were kept for questioning in the following days.

A day before the raid, Principal Xu warned several teachers that the police might raid the school, which trains students to serve in church worship teams.

Xus fate remains uncertain. Since students are under 18, local Christians fear that he might be accused of proselytising among minors. The school has not yet hired a lawyer in the case.

According to Freedom House, China is home to about 60 to 80 million Protestants and about 12 million Catholics.

The arrests in Harbin come as Christians in Fujian mark the upcoming reopening of the historic Mingdao Church in Fuzhou (picture 2).

Rev Chen Anti, pastor of the (Methodist) Church of Heavenly Peace, told the faithful that they would soon be able to pray again in the sacred place once some required equipment is purchased, China Source reported on Tuesday, citing an article published by the China Christian Daily.

Built by the Church of England in 1870s, the original structure was renovated in 1928. In 1903 it became the home of a school for blind girls.

Seized during the Cultural Revolution, it was returned to the Methodist community in 1999.

In 2018, Fuzhou authorities declared the church a protected heritage site. The latest restoration work began in April 2019 lasting for more than a year.

(Picture 2: China Christian Daily)
On Sept. 17, FDA officials will be meeting with a panel of outside experts to review data about Pfizer booster shots. The Pfizer vaccine is the only one to receive full-fledged approval from the FDA, which is likely to ease the administration of those boosters. The other two vaccinations on offer in the United States  Moderna and Johnson & Johnson  are still being administered via emergency use authorizations.
The morning of Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, was especially beautiful, with clear skies and cool temperatures and none of the humidity that plagues Baltimore during the late summer. The day was shattered at 8:46 a.m., when the first airliner hit the World Trade Center in New York.
Every chef we contacted was so incredibly busy already, Mayhugh said, whether they were preparing for the upcoming dinner or determining their next pivot. And yet they all dropped what they were doing to help out. It cemented for me that when you reach out to people in hospitalityno matter what theyre doing, they will help you out, she said.
The MH-60S Seahawk fell off the deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln on Aug. 31. One crew member was rescued and five were declared dead after a search. Five sailors on the carrier deck were injured.
Thats for personal reasons, whether that be personal safety or they just dont think they need it because theyre young and healthy and dont think theyre high risk, Rose said. I support everybodys personal decisions to whether they want to get vaccinated or not  I will not tell anyone whether they should get vaccinated.
The latest deaths attributed to Ida happened between Aug. 30 and Monday, but were just confirmed as storm-related by the Orleans Parish coroner, the Louisiana Department of Health said in a statement. Nine of the New Orleans deaths  of people ages 64 to 79  came from excessive heat during an extended power outage, while the two others were from carbon monoxide poisoning, the department said.
From a very early age my parents instilled in me humor, he told an audience. Instead of getting angry and frustrated  and we all do, dont we, disabled or not?  my parents taught me how to use humor to get through challenges. And, in turn, I learned how to use humor to make others feel comfortable around me. Because, lets face it, when we meet someone who is different, we get uncomfortable. We dont know what to do, what to say. Is this person mentally capable? I found using humor broke down that barrier right away and let people know, Hey, Im OK with who I am, so please be yourself around me.
Severe storms were possible in the Baltimore area before 2 a.m. Thursday, fueled by an approaching cold front, according to the weather service. The storms could include damaging wind gusts, isolated flooding, isolated hail and a tornado, weather service forecasters say. A forecast for Baltimore indicated that wind gusts could reach 18 mph during the repeated storms beginning Wednesday night.
Hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash in residence at UB

Hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash will be working with UB students this fall as part of a residency with the UB Arts Collaboratory.

Over the course of several weeks, students from UB and Buffalo State College, along with Buffalo-area artists, will have an opportunity to engage with one of the most important artists and innovators of our time  and he is making an ongoing commitment to UB. 

BUFFALO, N.Y.  Grandmaster Flash, one of the virtuoso creators of hip-hop and leader of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, the genres first act to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, will be in residence at the University at Buffalo this fall. He will direct the next Working Artists Lab as part of a full semester of hip-hop inspired programming presented by the universitys Arts Collaboratory.

The residency at UB gives me a chance to tell hip-hops whole story. The sights. The sounds. The places and the moments, says Grandmaster Flash. Its important that we get this history right. For the next generation to take music and art in new directions, they have to know where that music and art came from, who made it and how.

Grandmaster Flash in the 1970s emerged as one of hip-hops trendsetting innovators. He created an entirely new way of making music, as a DJ backspinning records, cutting and scratching. That new musical vocabulary propelled hip-hop as an art form that became part of a sweeping cultural phenomenon whose growth and influence is as great as any musical development to come out of the 20th century.

The fall 2021 lab will be the first time Flash has worked directly with university students in a revolutionary career punctuated by multiple awards, including a Grammy, a Lifetime Achievement recognition from the Urban Music Awards, a BET Hip Hop Award, and Swedens Polar Prize, which the BBC has called the Nobel Prize of Music.

The UB Arts Collaboratory Working Artists Lab with Grandmaster Flash is presented in partnership with the UB Department of Theatre and Dance, the UB Department of Art, IACE International Artistic & Cultural Exchange Program, the departments of Theatre and Africana studies at SUNY Buffalo State College, and FITZ Books.

This is a momentous occasion for UB, says Bronwyn Keenan, director of UBs Arts Collaboratory, an innovative strategic initiative in the universitys College of Arts and Sciences that fosters collaboration and experimentation across the university and the surrounding Western New York community.

Over the course of several weeks, students from UB and Buffalo State College, along with Buffalo-area artists, will have an opportunity to engage with one of the most important artists and innovators of our time  and he is making an ongoing commitment to UB.

This is not one-and-done.

Like other Working Artists Lab participants, Keenan says Grandmaster Flash plans to return annually and continue working with students, engaging with the community, cultivating relationships and watching the growth of the innovative work that hes starting at UB.

If you look at the potential for this lab and who might participate in the future, you would have a long list of participants, says Keenan.

Grandmaster Flash will join students via video conferencing in advance of his three-day in-person residency, which begins Sept. 30 with him hosting a private incubator session with scholars and local hip-hop luminaries. A master class from Flash on Oct. 1 will follow, as will a session on Oct. 2 where students will share their work with him.

A complete and more detailed schedule is available online.

Flash will also show his film Hip-Hop: People, Places & Things, a personally curated firsthand history of the genres inspirations, origins and innovations, to students on Sept. 30.

This film is essential viewing for those who want to understand and grasp the origins of hip-hop, says Kennan, who met Flash at an event she organized several years ago while working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Its a celebration of growth that takes us back to the musics beginnings exploring the four elements that came together in the 70s: MCs, DJs, graffiti and dance.

Grandmaster Flash produced the film as a creative enterprise and history lesson that marries personal photos and archival footage. In studio with his DJ kit, a back projection and soundtrack, Flash lays out the history of a movement that he helped write, telling stories from the flight deck of the art and ideas to emerge from the neighborhoods and innovators that began a global revolution.

He shared the film with me and my reaction was immediate: This is something that should be made available to higher education students, says Keenan. If you want to get the origin story right, the academy is the place to go.

After some thought, Flash agreed, and work began on mapping out his UB residency.

I hope to inspire students to get out there. I want them to make it happen. Do something different, says Flash. I didnt handle vinyl by the edges. I put my fingertips on the records surface. That was different and a lot of people didnt like the way I was treating the records. I may not have been the first DJ, but I was the first DJ that showed how a turntable could be an instrument.

Now I have a chance to work with students and encourage them to do the same, he says. Its important to me.
Campus News

UB has record fundraising year

By ERIN WAAS

What the University at Buffalo has accomplished in the past 18 months, especially during a year when private support to education grew at only 1% nationwide, is nothing short of remarkable. 

Thanks to unprecedented alumni and donor commitments and enthusiasm, UB raised $115.7 million in support of its Boldly Buffalo campaign in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021  the highest total UB has ever raised in a single year.

The support came from more than 19,000 donors, the most who have given in a fiscal year during the campaign.

We have been awed by the unwavering support of our loyal donors and volunteers, says Rodney M. Grabowski, vice president for university advancement. These results show the confidence they have in the Boldly Buffalo campaign  our $1 billon effort to ensure that UB will continue to provide a world-class education to our exceptional students, empower our remarkable faculty to provide the highest level of instruction and research, and fuel the innovative programs and discoveries that benefit not only our community here in Western New York, but ultimately, our world.

Since its launch in 2013, donors have committed over $784 million to Boldly Buffalo, which has surpassed its original goal. The university announced the campaigns impact and success in April 2021, when it also announced that the campaign goal would be extended to $1 billion, thanks to the enthusiasm and engagement of record numbers of donors, alumni and community partners. This is the second consecutive year that UB has set a fundraising record and increased donor engagement with the university. During the campaign period, UB has also connected with more than 107,577 of its 273,000 alumni worldwide.

The campaign has continued to succeed even as the philanthropic landscape has changed amid the COVID-19 pandemic, as the crisis led to shifting economic circumstances and donor priorities. In recognition of this success, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) awarded UB the prestigious Silver Recognition in Fundraising Improvement for CASE District II at its Winter 2021 awards ceremony.

During the past fiscal year, a record 19,671 donors  more than 13,000 of whom are alumni  made commitments across the university, supporting such varied initiatives as scholarships, student emergency funds, capital improvements and faculty support of research and endowed faculty positions  eight of which were established in this fiscal year. About 3,500 donors made their first-ever gift to the university, while more than 16 gifts exceeding $1 million were committed  the most seven-figure gifts ever in a single year. Commitments ranged from modest annual and crowdfunding donations to large bequests and in-kind gifts of software, demonstrating the strength of the UB community in supporting all levels of the university.

Among the many notable gifts UB received this fiscal year, are those that advanced the work of students and faculty who were on the front-line of COVID-19. Read on for a few other examples of the generosity and impact of donors.
Research News

UB ice scientist among authors of new IPCC climate change report

The edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet. For a decade, glaciologist Sophie Nowicki has played a lead role in coordinating international efforts to understand how climate change is impacting the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets. Photo: Jason Briner

By CHARLOTTE HSU

The IPCC report also shows that human actions still have the potential to determine the future course of the climate, as some of the impacts could be slowed and others could be stopped by limiting warming.  Sophie Nowicki, Empire Innovation Professor of Geology College of Arts and Sciences and UB RENEW Institute

How will climate change impact Earths ice sheets in the 21st century? And how much will sea levels rise as a result? For a decade, glaciologist Sophie Nowicki has played a lead role in coordinating international efforts to answer these and other questions about the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets. The resulting research, conducted by a global community of scientists, is now helping to inform decision-making worldwide on issues relating to climate change. Projections from a major ice sheet modeling project called ISMIP6, which Nowicki co-leads, are among the data included in the latest report from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). And Nowicki is one of 18 lead authors of a chapter on ocean, cryosphere and sea level change in the new IPCC publication, released in August as the first installment of the IPCCs Sixth Assessment Report on climate. Two key takeaways from the analysis: Climate change is widespread, rapid and intensifying. However, we can still slow the warming  if we act now to make deep cuts to emissions of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases. It is indisputable that human activities are causing climate change, and climate change is already affecting every region on Earth, says Nowicki, Empire Innovation Professor of Geology in the College of Arts and Sciences and UB RENEW Institute. However, the IPCC report also shows that human actions still have the potential to determine the future course of the climate, as some of the impacts could be slowed and others could be stopped by limiting warming, she says. The report stresses the need for immediate, rapid and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.

End of century a very human timescale

Consequences of a warming world will include increasing heat waves, longer warm seasons and heat extremes that could endanger health and agriculture more often, according to IPCC projections. Sea level rise will contribute to more frequent and severe coastal flooding in low-lying areas and coastal erosion. The intensity of these and other impacts will depend on what actions the global community takes today to reduce emissions, Nowicki says. So, in some ways, this question lies at the heart of the IPCCs findings: What kind of world do we want to leave behind for our children, for the next generation? The end of the 21st century, a focus for the IPCC assessment, may seem distant, but it is really a human timescale, she notes. Sea level change affects everyone on the planet, says Nowicki, who has two school-aged children. How much sea level will rise by the year 2100, when my children will be in their 90s, depends on what we do in the coming years. Sea level will continue to rise in response to the climate change that occurred in my grandmothers lifetime. This change is already committed (or locked in) and not reversible. But the much larger potential sea level change due to current and future global warming is highly uncertain. We can still slow down changes in the polar regions and corresponding sea level rise, but we need to do so now  before irreversible changes are triggered in the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets. NASAs Sea Level Change Team has created a simple online tool that helps people envision some of these potential futures, says Nowicki, who is part of the NASA group. The tool shows how sea levels could rise around the world from now through 2150, drawing from the latest data in the IPCC report. Users can view different emissions scenarios to see how cutting greenhouse gases emissions could help to lessen the effects of climate change on oceans.

Working on IPCC report a new experience

The IPCC is the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. The organizations reports are a key input for international negotiations, providing information on the status of climate change, including impacts and future risks, and options for adaptation and mitigation. The IPCC has three working groups: Working Group I, dealing with the physical science basis of climate change; Working Group II, dealing with impacts, adaptation and vulnerability; and Working Group III, dealing with the mitigation of climate change. The August report presents the contributions of Working Group I to the IPCCs Sixth Assessment Report. Nowicki has extensive experience with large collaborative projects: As co-lead for ISMIP6  the Ice Sheet Model Intercomparison Project for phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project  she pulled together over 60 ice, ocean and atmosphere scientists to generate new estimates of how melting ice sheets could impact global sea level by 2100. The effort was born through a workshop she organized several years ago. Data from ISMIP6 informed the IPCC report, as well as studies like a 2021 paper in Geophysical Research Letters that models future scenarios for the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets, and a 2021 study in Nature that shows how deep cuts to emissions could dramatically slow down the process of sea level rise this century. Even with all these past projects, working on the IPCC report was a completely new experience for Nowicki. As an IPCC author, your task is to assess the current scientific knowledge on climate change, including our past, present and future climate, she explains. You have to be impartial and cannot push forward your favorite research topic or ideas. Your role as an IPCC author is to combine multiple lines of evidence, not create new research. Everyone in your chapter needs to agree on what is written, but the assessment goes further than simply your chapter team, she adds. Scientists from other chapters and other IPCC reports provide feedback on what you write. In addition, external experts and governments review successive drafts of the reports. Each review comment needs to be addressed. It is a rigorous, transparent endeavor that in the end captures the current state of knowledge.

READER COMMENT
Research News

Modified headphones translate sign language by using Doppler

The headphone-based system uses Doppler technology to sense tiny fluctuations, or echoes, in acoustic soundwaves that are created by the hands of someone signing. Photo: University at Buffalo.

By MELVIN BANKHEAD III

SonicASL is an exciting proof of concept that could eventually help greatly improve communication between deaf and hearing populations.  Zhanpeng Jin, associate professor Department of Computer Science and Engineering

A UB-led research team has modified noise-cancelling headphones to enable the common electronic device to see and translate American Sign Language (ASL) when paired with a smartphone. Reported in the journal Proceedings of the ACM on Interactive, Mobile, Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies, the headphone-based system uses Doppler technology to sense tiny fluctuations, or echoes, in acoustic soundwaves that are created by the hands of someone signing. Dubbed SonicASL, the system proved 93.8% effective in tests performed indoors and outdoors involving 42 words. Word examples include love, space and camera. Under the same conditions involving 30 simple sentences  for example, Nice to meet you.  SonicASL was 90.6% effective. SonicASL is an exciting proof of concept that could eventually help greatly improve communication between deaf and hearing populations, says corresponding author Zhanpeng Jin, associate professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at UB. But before such technology is commercially available, much work must be done, he stresses. For example, SonicASLs vocabulary must be greatly expanded. Also, the system must be able to read facial expressions, a major component of ASL. The study will be presented at the ACM Conference on Pervasive and Ubiquitous Computing (UbiComp), taking place Sept. 21-26.

Communication barriers persist

These are the acoustic soundwaves created by signing the phrase "I need help."

Worldwide, according to the World Federation of the Deaf, there are about 72 million deaf people using more than 300 different sign languages. Although the United Nations recognizes that sign languages are equal in importance to the spoken word, that view is not yet a reality in many nations. People who are deaf or hard of hearing still experience multiple communication barriers. Traditionally, communication between deaf American Sign Language (ASL) users and hearing people who do not know the language takes place either in the presence of an ASL interpreter, or through a camera setup. A frequent concern regarding the use of cameras, according to Jin, includes whether those video recordings could be misused. And while the use of ASL interpreters is becoming more common, there is no guarantee that one will be available when needed. SonicASL aims to address these issues, especially in casual circumstances without pre-arranged planning and setup, Jin says.

The illustration on the left shows the modifications made to the headphones. The right shows what a user sees on their smartphone. Photo: University at Buffalo.

Modify headphones with speaker, add app

Most noise-cancelling headphones rely on an outward-facing microphone that picks up environmental noise. The headphones then produce an anti-sound  a soundwave with the same amplitude but with an inverted phase of the surrounding noise  to cancel the external noise. We added an additional speaker next to the outward-facing microphone. We wanted to see if the modified headphone could sense moving objects, similar to radar, says co-lead author Yincheng Jin (no relation), a PhD candidate in Jins lab. The speaker and microphone do indeed pick up hand movements. The information is relayed through the SonicASL cellphone app, which contains an algorithm the team created to identify the words and sentences. The app then translates the signs and speaks to the hearing person via the earphones. We tested SonicASL under different environments, including office, apartment, corridor and sidewalk locations, says co-lead author Yang Gao, who completed the research in Jins lab before becoming a postdoctoral scholar at Northwestern University. Although it has seen a slight decrease in accuracy as overall environmental noises increase, the overall accuracy is still quite good because the majority of the environmental noises do not overlap or interfere with the frequency range required by SonicASL. The core SonicASL algorithm can be implemented and deployed on any smartphone, he says.

SonicASL adaptable for other sign languages
Today

A good deal of sunshine. High 84F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 51F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.

Tomorrow

Sunshine and some clouds. High 71F. Winds N at 10 to 20 mph.
Rev Babila Fochang W. Musa

Presbyterian pastors of Bali origin have called on armed separatists fighting for the dependence of a country they call Ambazonia to lift the ban on activities of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon, PCC.

The plea is contained in an emotional epistle to the separatist fighters in Bali written on behalf of Presbyterian pastors of Bali origin by Rev. Babila George Fochang (President) and Rev. Elvis Voma (Secretary).

On September 4, 2021, armed separatists in Bali Subdivision banned all activities of the PCC on grounds that the leadership of the church failed to blame the military for the August 22 incident at PC Ntanfoang which left a Christian death and the parish pastor injured.

On Sunday, September 5, 2021, the PCC Moderator Rt. Rev. Fonki Samuel Forba asked all pastors to leave Bali.

However, Rev. Babila George Fochang and Rev. Elvis Voma in a letter to the separatist fighters said the Church is a Divine institution in the hands of men with errors and flaws.

As such, they prayed that the Holy Spirit should guide us to be careful that we do not throw the bathwater together with the child. May the Holy Spirit also help those who placed the ban and soften their hearts towards a reversal of their decision.

Below is the entirety of the letter titled, The Stance of PCC Bali Pastors on the Recent Happenings in Bali Nyonga.

In times like these, we the people of Bali, sharing our identity, culture and feeling the pains of times together, have the challenge to seek Gods face and make our community what we would want posterity to say of us. As the Scripture says:

"We are hard-pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair, persecuted, but not abandoned, struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body..."(II Cor. 4:8-10).

These words of Paul to the Christians at Corinth kind of comforts us that others have had similar challenges like the ones we are facing today as the Christians of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) in Bali subdivision.

Our faith is being tested to see how as a people we remain steadfast in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us make a difference in the midst of the trials and rise more mature instead of being downcast. We are the ones to make our place better and we should stand tall for that goal as a people of one common ancestry.

Way back during the First World War, British soldiers entered Bali on October 21, 1915. They captured the Basel missionaries and interned them on October 23rd.

From then on, the Christians in Bali suffered great persecution.

The church house was locked and the keys were given to the Divisional Officer in Bamenda. This did not stop the propagation of the gospel. Mr. Hunt, the Divisional Officer eventually handed back the keys, and Church services recommenced.

Today we are faced with another harsh reality whereby the PCC Christians of Bali cannot worship in their own houses of worship. The land of Bali deserves better and God alone holds the key to chat a new way forward for us all.

We pray that the Holy Spirit should guide us to be careful that we do not throw the bathwater together with the child. May the Holy Spirit also help those who placed the ban and soften their hearts towards a reversal of their decision as He did to Mr. Hunt. Our people should have the opportunity to worship the Lord in freedom with the opportunity to make intercession for Bali, the PCC, and the world at large plagued with crises.

The Church is a Divine institution in the hands of men with errors and flaws. May all Bali people focus on making Bali grow in lips and bounds leaving a good legacy for our progeny.

Let us, therefore, remember the Christian saints of Bali and the founders of Bali Nyonga now resting beneath the earth and live in forgiveness to one another where we have gone wrong in all ways. We should consider the faith of our kin and reason together for God's Church doors to be opened, that is, the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon and all her institutions.

There is no birth without labor pain and Bali is going through labor pain. Though tears may tarry for the night, joy comes in the morning (Cf. Ps 30:5).

May the innocent blood of Ma Grace bring in greater fruits of righteousness, justice, and peace in Bali. She is thus one of the martyrs of our time and part of History which we cannot deny. Let us as Bali people take our communitys fate into our hands and bring in a rebirth of positive history. The PCC in Bali is for the people living in Bali and we should take it and make it grow despite the stake of time.

May a new dawn to make peace with God and one another come on Bali Nyonga.

May God console and speak to all of us in times like these.
North West Lawyers Determined To Move On With Strike Wilson MUSA

Nicholas Nkongho Manchang, Divisional Officer for Bamenda II Subdivision has prohibited all activities of the North West Lawyers Association within his administrative unit.

The Sub-prefectural decision no. 70/2021 prohibiting the holding of all public meetings by a certain group called North West Lawyers Association in Bamenda II Subdivision is dated Thursday, September 9, 2021.

That with effect from the date of signature of the present decision, a certain group called North West Lawyers Association is hereby prohibited from holding any public meeting in Bamenda II Subdivision, Nkongho Manchang said.

He said his decision is based on the fact that the North West Lawyers Association is operating illegally, holding undeclared meetings.

The Divisional Officer for Bamenda II warned that any group of persons who contravene this order shall be punished in accordance with the provisions of the regulation in force.

The Brigade Commander of Ntarinkon, the Commissioner of the 3 rd and 4 th district police are each in their respective spheres of competence charged with the strict implementation of this decision, he said.

Bamenda II DO bans North West Lawyers Association (c) WhatsApp

Nkongho Manchang says his decision respects the constitution as well as law no. 90/053 of 19 th December 1990 relating to freedom of association. He draws his powers from decree no. 2008/377 of 12 th November 2008 defining the powers and duties of heads of administrative units and those to assist them in the discharge of their duties.

It is not known if the DOs decision is related to the ongoing socio-political situation in Cameroon North West and South West Regions.

Cameroon-Info.Net recalls that Cameroon's state forces have been battling to dislodge armed separatists who pitched their tents in the North West and South West Regions since Anglophone protests transformed into an armed conflict in 2017.

Corporate demands by Common Law Lawyers and Anglophone Teachers led to protests in November 2016. The street demonstrations later morphed into ongoing running gun battles between state forces and armed separatist fighters in the predominantly English-speaking regions, leading to untold destruction of human lives, their habitats, and livelihoods.

Tit-for-tat killings, kidnappings, arsons, maiming, and outright terror have become part of daily lives in some parts of the English-speaking regions.
Baltimore Police said they had identified three teenagers shortly after Fabian Mendez, 41, was run over and dragged with his own car during a carjacking in the 100 block of N. Conkling St. around 9:30 on April 2. One was captured at the scene and confessed, a second was arrested days later and also confessed, according to police charging documents.
I feel so sad now when I see what has happened, he said. I knew from the get-go this was a war of ideologies. Now, after 20 years, weve replaced the Taliban with the Taliban. We need something beyond F-35 [jets] and Tomahawk missiles.
Theres got to be other kids in this county, in this country, and in this world who this is the model for them  to help them get what they need and to learn the best way they can, he said.
From its start in 2011, the domino event was designed to have local engineers and the community working together, said Suko, an engineer who first started creating domino topples in high school in New York. He then went on to create topples for commercials, television (he was featured on Martha Stewart Living) and world records before scaling back on his domino job in 2006 to focus on family.
Every organization has their part in the recovery process and we deal with immediate assistance in the first two weeks, Molineaux-Burrows said. To have this one-stop-shop in this area is great and it is between the two hardest-hit areas.
Clay Center, KS (67432)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 83F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low near 65F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph.
Please enter the subscriber's NAME and ADDRESS in all capital letters with no punctuation as it appears on your paper. This information can be obtained by looking at the label on the front of your paper. Note that Drive, Street, Road, etc. are all abbreviated to DR, ST, RD, etc. with no punctuation after it. (123 MAIN ST).
They make the dough and sauce, of course, but their own sausage too, according to the menu. The Chicago-style pan is available in two sizes, 9- or 14-inch. You can add toppings to the baseline cheese ($12.95 or $20.95), including goat cheese ($2.10 or $2.80), or choose a specialty pie, like Uncle Jerrys classic sausage ($15.05 or $23.75). Order by phone for takeout, dine inside or grab a seat outside at the dog-friendly picnic tables.
The bonus with this particular coupon scam is simple: The coupons arent fakes. The movie attempts, with sporadic success, to get at real, corrosive socioeconomic problems underneath the caper structure. The Mexican coupon factory worker, we learn, makes $2 an hour; his pregnant wife urges him to help these women out so they can all benefit. Jojos credit has been permanently ruined after getting hacked. The companies losing out in the scam can handle the losses, Connie figures. Rulewise, she says, just before the music comes up on the soundtrack to make the point, its time to start bending em a little.
There, Sam Wasser, a conservation biologist, analyzes elephant DNA in his lab. Usually, the samples come from ivory seizures. He and his colleagues sequence the DNA from little pieces of each tusk to figure out where the poached elephants lived and track the ivory traffickers. It can be heavy work, Wasser said. Using the same tools to potentially help a living elephant reunite with her family really is a breath of fresh air, he said.
One reason, they say, is that consumers in rich countries are becoming more aware of the seafood industrys environmental problems, including overfishing and the health risks of some seafood. Another is that todays plant-based startups do a better job of approximating fish flavor and texture than earlier ones did  an important consideration for non-vegetarians.
In the report filed in federal court, the department outlines its own views on its work during the first half of the year to comply with a consent decree that followed a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into CPD after the killing of teenager Laquan McDonald by Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke. The consent decree mandates an overhaul to boost professionalism and address a wide variety of issues including training, the use of force, and transparency.
The first robbery happened in the 300 block of West Ontario Street about 1:45 a.m., police said. Three men had been walking on the sidewalk when three males, armed with handguns exited a black SUV, according to a police media notification. The three people with guns took the victims phones and wallets before fleeing and there is no one in custody, it said.
Gaeger said that Houston, sitting behind Jackson, handed Jackson back the gun Houston purchased from Jackson to load it. At that point, Houston thought Jackson was going to rob him and feared for his life, Gaeger said. According to Gaeger, Houston said he grabbed the gun because he was afraid, and the gun went off.
Frerichs has been held captive by the Haqqani network, a militant group affiliated with the Taliban, for the past 19 months after he was kidnapped on Jan. 31, 2020. Frerichs was taken captive by someone who met with him in Kabul on the ruse that they would hire him on a project, according to his family and U.S. officials. The captors delivered Frerichs to the Haqqani network in Khost, a province bordering Pakistan.
Outside, the man was chased down the street by Hampton, and then Jefferson, who was wearing a black hat and no shirt, also confronted the man, prosecutors said. Jefferson and Hampton then allegedly attacked the man, knocking him to the ground. The mans wallet fell out of his pants and Jefferson took it, prosecutors said. They then continued to hit and kick the man, prosecutors said.
Doherty, a Democratic political operative and former chief of staff to then-Cook County Commissioner Jeffrey Tobolski, has been charged with bribery conspiracy alleging he funneled payments from a SafeSpeed agent to Sandoval in exchange for the senators help in Springfield. Doherty is also accused in a 10-page indictment with conspiring with Tobolski to shake down a real estate developer doing business in McCook.
These migrating birds tend to take flight in darkness. Researchers are not clear on why birds prefer to fly at night. However, there are a few theories. Scientists speculate that birds travel after sunset for safety to avoid predatory animals such as hawks. Birds may also like traveling in cooler temperatures.
HIV stigma is still rooted in fear because of images that appeared in the early 1980s of people dying of AIDS-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New treatments help HIV patients reach a stage where it is undetectable and unable to infect others, and help patients live longer and healthier lives. But health officials say stigma and transmission of HIV are still issues, particularly in the Black community.
I am not an ideologue, Sullivan said, before making a reference to Rauner. I actually think its really not healthy to be an ideologue if you want real outcomes  especially if youre going to run as a Republican in a Democratic-leaning state where theyre the supermajority in the legislature. I think we tried that experiment previously and it did not work.
But legislation didnt reach the floor before the General Assembly adjourned its spring session, and talks have dragged on throughout the summer. Lawmakers and the governors office, along with their allies in organized labor and the environmental movement, so far have failed to reach an agreement on phasing out two other power plants: the coal-fired Prairie State Generating Station in southern Illinois, which serves communities across the state, and the city-owned coal plant in Springfield.
Wed started out early that morning, arriving at the tiny parking lot near the trailhead just before 8 a.m., when our car took the fourth of 14 spots. The semi-early hour meant temps hadnt yet soared; the trail wasnt yet crowded; and perhaps best of all, by the time we returned to our car some two hours later, we still had most of a glorious day ahead of us.
China has pledged stern actions against irregular off-campus tutoring activities featuring curriculum subjects.

Unlicensed institutions and individuals offering backdoor curriculum subject-tutoring services such as household services and consulting will be investigated and handled in accordance with the related law and regulations, according to a circular issued by the Ministry of Education.

The document also clarifies other types of irregularities in off-campus curriculum subject-tutoring activities, including those violating regulations on who can provide such services and when, where and how such services can be provided.

Primary and secondary school teachers are banned from being paid for offering extra lessons, the circular says.

It bans conducting curriculum subject-tutoring under the disguise of summer camps or training of art, sports, science and technology, adding that offline institutions cannot provide such services through online channels, including livestreaming and online conferencing.
El Salvador on Tuesday became the first country to formally adopt the cryptocurrency bitcoin as legal tender, amid concerns over financial risks of the move.

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele announced on Monday via social media that ahead of the formal adoption of the currency, his government had purchased 400 bitcoins, which were trading at around 21 million U.S. dollars.

The country's Legislative Assembly has approved legislation making the cryptocurrency bitcoin legal tender in the country on June 9, which would take effect on Sept. 7.

The change means bitcoin should be accepted as a way of payment in the country, while the U.S. dollar, which has been El Salvador's official currency since 2001, will remain legal tender.

Although the move delighted the currency's supporters, polls showed that Salvadorans are wary about the volatility of the cryptocurrency, and some criticized it for its potential for illegal use, such as laundering money or financing terrorism.

Meanwhile, international financial organizations, including the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and Inter-American Development Bank, have expressed concerns about the Central American nation's bitcoin adoption.
China's securities regulator has pledged to roll out more measures to expand opening-up, while calling for strengthening cross-border regulatory cooperation.

China will study and introduce relevant measures to further expand opening-up, including expanding the country's Stock Connect programs and increasing the supply of international futures products, according to Yi Huiman, chairman of the China Securities Regulatory Commission.

Major global financial centers, with developed capital markets, should offer services to global investors and facilitate cross-border financing and investment, Yi noted, stressing that the centers should not be used as the platform and tool for governments to suppress other countries.

Adhering to the principles of mutual respect, effective communication, mutual benefit and win-win results, China will carry out pragmatic cooperation with relevant parties in areas including the supervision of China-concept stocks, cross-border audit supervision and law-enforcement cooperation, Yi said.
China has released the first batch of gamma photon data obtained by the Dark Matter Particle Explorer (DAMPE), according to Science and Technology Daily on Wednesday.

The National Space Science Data Center (NSSDC) and the Purple Mountain Observatory (PMO) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences Tuesday released the scientific data collected by the DAMPE, also known as Wukong or Monkey King.

According to the PMO, Wukong's satellite platform and payload have been working normally. It has finished the full-sky scan 11 times and collected about 10.7 billion cases of high-energy cosmic rays, obtaining the most accurate measurement results of cosmic-ray electrons, protons and helium nuclei above the trillion electron volts energy region.

The released data were recorded from Jan. 1, 2016, to Dec. 31, 2018, including 99,864 cases of gamma photon data and 1,096 records of related satellite status files. They can be accessed from the NSSDC and the PMO.

The NSSDC and the PMO said they will release more scientific data of gamma photons, carry out data analysis, and develop application technologies and tools.

Wukong was launched on Dec. 17, 2015, to observe the energy spectra of high-energy electrons, including positrons, and gamma rays in space to find evidence of the existence of dark matter particles. It also has carried out research on the origin of cosmic-ray and gamma-ray astronomy.

Wukong's payload has four parts: a plastic scintillator array detector, a silicon array detector, a calorimeter, and a neutron detector. It has extremely high energy resolution in gamma-ray observation and is expected to better study dark matter.
You are here: China

Chinese authorities on Wednesday summoned leading online game enterprises and platforms, including Tencent and NetEase, for talks.

These authorities include the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA), the Office of the Central Cyberspace Affairs Commission, and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Online game companies and platforms for trading game accounts and game streaming were asked to profoundly understand the importance and urgency of preventing minors from online game addiction. They should implement relative regulations aimed at boosting youth development.

They were required to fully and faithfully impose the time limit on underage gamers and banned from providing online game account trading services for minors.

The authorities ordered the enterprises and platforms to tighten examination of the contents of their games. Obscene and violent content and those breeding unhealthy tendencies, such as money-worship and effeminacy, should be removed.

The platforms must also resist unfair competition to prevent excessive market concentration or even monopolies in the industry.

They were urged to break from the solitary focus of pursuing profit or attracting fans and other erroneous tendencies, and change game rules and designs inducing addictions.

Restrictions were demanded on game advertisements involving celebrity endorsement.

The platforms were asked to place stricter management on the services of livestreaming games, including banning large rewards and rewards from minors.

The Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee and the NPPA will work with relative departments and local authorities to strengthen supervision and deal with rule violations.

A platform for preventing online game addiction among minors will be launched to accept and process relevant clues, and companies failing to follow the requirements will be stringently punished.
Probes should be further implemented into the actions of both offering and taking bribes, according to recent guidance released in China.

The guidance was jointly issued by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the National Supervisory Commission, as well as a series of Party departments and top judicial authorities including the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate.

It demands strict investigation and punishment on offering bribes, especially those involving multiple bribes, huge sums of money or bribing multiple individuals.

The focus should also be put on bribe-offering involving CPC members or state employees, major projects, food and medicine, among others.

The guidance urges the protection of the legitimate rights of individuals and enterprises involved in such cases and prohibits overuse of methods like detention, search and arrest.

Institutional norms on punishment on bribe-offering should be improved, and limitations on market access and qualification acquiring should be studied, the guidance adds.
The Chinese government on Wednesday unveiled a plan for the green development of the country's agricultural sector over the next five years.

The plan, jointly issued by six departments including the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, identified resource protection, pollution control, restoration of agricultural ecology and the development of a low-carbon agricultural industrial chain as the key tasks for the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025).

The plan set quantitative objectives for the agriculture sector to be achieved by 2025, which include attaining an overall pass rate of over 98 percent in routine quality and safety tests of agricultural products.
"The Handbook of the Belt and Road 2020" was published by China Social Sciences Press (CSSP) at a book launch seminar on Tuesday in Beijing, held by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS).

Co-edited by Chinese and British scholars, the book summarizes the achievements jointly made by the countries taking part in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) since 2017.

"The BRI has greatly responded to people's practical needs in the age of globalization, especially against the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Cai Fang, co-editor of the book and chief expert of the National Think Tank at the CASS. "I hope this timely research handbook will provide more insights into the BRI for the people across the world."

Built upon the first edition of "The Handbook of the Belt and Road" published by CSSP in 2018, the new book arrived at a critical time in the high quality development of the BRI, shedding light on its influence in the green development of the world.

The new edition consists of 155 clauses and sub-clauses, and elaborates on the achievements in the construction of major projects and dialogue platforms, as well as China's efforts in building long-term financial mechanisms such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the Silk Road Fund.

The handbook also highlights the construction of multilateral green-themed platforms including the BRI International Coalition for Green Development, the BRI Green Investment Principles, and the BRI Green Investment Fund, demonstrating China's determination in building a low-carbon Belt and Road.

Jeremy North, managing director for books publishing at Taylor & Francis Group, delivered a speech via video at the event.

On behalf of the publisher of the handbook's English version, North weighed in on the development of the BRI, and recalled the launching moment of the English version of the first edition of the handbook, "Routledge Handbook of the Belt and Road," in 2019. North said he expects to further cooperate with CSSP.

Nearly 60 government officials, experts, and guests from multiple countries attended the book launch either at the event or through the internet.
China's environmental authorities and internet companies on Tuesday proposed to tap into the potential of the green economy and coordinate industrial digitalization with low-carbon development, in a bid to better tackle climate change and deliver China's carbon neutrality goal.

The proposal was made at the first China Digital Carbon Neutrality Summit, an event for environmental and internet policymakers, scholars, and industrial leaders to discuss and explore digital solutions for the country's green and low-carbon transition.

According to the proposal, all industries are encouraged to apply digital technologies, such as big data, cloud computing, blockchain and AI, for their low-carbon transformation. Eco-friendly technologies will also be adopted to optimize China's energy structure, improve energy efficiency, and help people develop green lifestyles.

In September last year, China unveiled that it aimed to attain its carbon dioxide emissions peak before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Such efforts have been renewed later in the country's 14th Five-year Plan (2021-2025), which stipulates that China's energy consumption per unit of GDP and carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP will be reduced respectively by 13.5% and 18% between 2021 and 2025. It also aims to increase the share of non-fossil energy in total energy consumption to about 20%.

All these targets add urgency to the transformation and upgrade of traditional industries. Wu Hequan, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, believed that achieving these targets required joint efforts to adjust the energy structure and industrial composition, as well as carbon sink.

As far as Wu is concerned, green development, electrification, and digitalization are key to reducing carbon emissions. "The realization of the carbon emission poses both opportunities and challenges to the IT industry," Wu said at the summit on Tuesday. "What matters is to strengthen technological innovation and use it to achieve carbon footprint reduction."

Still, given the uncertainties brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, many experts at the summit called for joint efforts from the international community to address climate change based on the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities.

Most recently on Sept. 7, Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng met via a video link with Alok Sharma, president-designate of the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26). The two sides agreed that China and Britain should strengthen dialogue and cooperation to tackle climate change.

"We spoke about the importance of climate action, our goals for the COP26 and COP15 (the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity), and opportunities for enhanced UK-China cooperation on clean energy, low carbon trade and investment and green finance," Sharma tweeted on Tuesday, calling the discussion "constructive."

Xie Zhenhua, China's special envoy for climate change affairs, also held a meeting with Sharma in Tianjin last Sunday to exchange ideas concerning bilateral cooperation on climate issues and the preparations for the COP26.

Over the years, China and Britain have maintained a good cooperative relationship in tackling climate issues. Back in June 2014, the two sides released the China-UK Joint Climate Change Statement, which agrees to intensify bilateral policy dialogue and practical collaboration. In October 2020, the then Chinese Ambassador to Britain Liu Xiaoming also pointed out the enormous potential for the two sides to join hands especially in promoting "renewable energy, green finance, and green Belt and Road," in a bid to "boost green recovery" in both countries and the rest of the world.
Chris Tang, secretary for security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, said on Thursday that the security bureau and all disciplined services will strive to ensure that the three upcoming major elections in Hong Kong will be conducted in a safe environment of social stability.

Tang noted in an article that the 2021 Hong Kong Election Committee's subsector ordinary elections scheduled for Sept. 19 is the first key election held in accordance with Improving Electoral System (Consolidated Amendments) Ordinance 2021, which is related to the effective administration of Hong Kong in the future.

The Legislative Council General Election and the Chief Executive Election are scheduled for December 2021 and March 2022 respectively.

Tang said that the security bureau will formulate a security plan to deal with possible security risks and ensure that all election-related activities can be carried out smoothly and orderly.

In recent years, the Legislative Council had been inefficient, chaotic and even plagued with violence, indicating that there were loopholes in Hong Kong's electoral system, Tang said, adding that this had allowed anti-China troublemakers to enter the political system of the HKSAR, seriously undermine Hong Kong's constitutional order, and even endanger national security.

In order to plug the loopholes and bring order to chaos, it is important and necessary to improve Hong Kong's electoral system to safeguard the constitutional order established by the Constitution and the HKSAR Basic Law, he said.

As a member of the Candidate Eligibility Review Committee, Tang said that he and other committee members will work to make sure all candidates will be those who sincerely uphold the HKSAR Basic Law and bear allegiance to the HKSAR.

Anyone making a pretense will not be allowed to slip through and enter the HKSAR's administration system, he added.
 Flash

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday attended the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries in Beijing via video link.



Noting that Afghanistan is now standing at the crossroads of history, Wang said that the country is still facing severe challenges, such as humanitarian issues, people's livelihoods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Some international forces may also use political, economic and financial means to create new troubles for Afghanistan.

The neighboring countries, more than anyone else, want to help Afghanistan get out of chaos, he said. They should exert a positive influence on the situation development on the basis of respecting the sovereign independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan.

Wang stressed that the United States and its allies should learn profound lessons and assume their due responsibilities on the Afghan issue.

"The common view of the international community is that the end of military intervention by the United States and its allies should be the beginning of them assuming their responsibilities," Wang said.

"They are more obligated than any other country to provide economic, livelihood and humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, and help Afghanistan maintain stability, prevent chaos and move toward sound development on the premise of respecting the sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan."

He said the neighbors should guide and urge the Afghan Taliban to unite with all ethnic groups and factions, build a broad and inclusive political structure, pursue moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, draw a clear line with terrorist forces, and establish and develop friendly relations with other countries, especially neighboring countries.

The Taliban has recently made positive statements on issues such as forming a government, fighting terrorism and making friends with its neighbors. "We welcome the statements and the key is to transform them into concrete action," he said, adding the two most important points are broad inclusiveness and resolute crackdown on terrorism.

Afghanistan's neighbors should play a unique role in providing a good external environment for Afghanistan's stability and reconstruction and meanwhile addressing their own legitimate concerns, Wang said.

He proposed six aspects for coordination and cooperation at the current stage, including helping Afghanistan strengthen epidemic prevention and control, keeping port gates open, strengthening management of refugees and emigrants, providing humanitarian assistance as soon as possible, deepening anti-terrorism cooperation and carrying out anti-drug cooperation.

Wang announced that China has decided to urgently provide 200 million yuan (30.96 million U.S. dollars) worth of grain, winter supplies, vaccines and medicines to Afghanistan, according to the needs of the Afghan people.

He said that China has decided to donate 3 million vaccine doses to the Afghan people in the first batch. China is also ready to provide more anti-epidemic and emergency materials to Afghanistan under the China-South Asian Countries Emergency Supplies Reserve.

Participants positively evaluated a series of consensuses reached at the meeting and agreed to institutionalize the meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries.

The first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries was chaired by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Also attending the meeting were Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov and Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Vepa Khadzhiev.
 Flash

The true number of U.S. COVID-19 cases by the end of 2020 was likely more than 100 million, said a new study by researchers at Columbia University.

"At the end of last year, you may recall hearing news reports that the number of COVID-19 cases in the United States had topped 20 million. While that number came as truly sobering news, it also likely was an underestimate," wrote National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins in a blog post on Tuesday about the study published by science journal Nature.

In the study, researchers at Columbia University estimated the percentage of people who had been infected with SARS-CoV-2 in communities across the country through December 2020.

They started with existing national data on the number of coronavirus cases both detected and undetected in 3,142 U.S. counties and major metropolitan areas. They then factored in data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on the number of people who tested positive for antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. These CDC data are useful for picking up on past infections, including those that went undetected.

From these data, the researchers calculated that only about 11 percent of all COVID-19 cases were confirmed by a positive test result in March 2020. By the end of the year, with testing improvements and heightened public awareness of COVID-19, the ascertainment rate, or the number of infections that were known versus unknown, rose to about 25 percent on average.

"Many cases went undetected due to limited testing early in the year and a large number of infections that produced mild or no symptoms," Collins said.

Collins said the revised number, which is nearly a third of the U.S. population of 328 million, illustrates "just how rapidly this novel coronavirus spread through the country last year."

The United States surpassed 20 million confirmed COVID-19 cases on New Year's Day, according to data from the Johns Hopkins University (JHU).

As of Wednesday afternoon, the country's caseload was over 40,412,000 with a death toll of 652,175, according to a tally by JHU.
 Flash

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday pledged to learn the lessons from past missions to improve peacekeeping transitions.

UN peacekeeping missions are never intended to be permanent, and transitions come with no "on-off" switch as transitions are complex processes -- individual to each country context, he told a Security Council open debate on the issue of peacekeeping transitions.

"They involve a careful reconfiguration of the UN's presence, strategy and footprint in a country. And they begin not only when a mission is nearing its end -- but when the first boots hit the ground. Success depends on early and sustained collaboration among field missions, host governments, UN Country Teams, and local and global partners. And it depends on building trust with the people and communities we are there to serve," said Guterres.

He pledged to constantly improve the transition process, and learn from the lessons of past missions, including political engagement, national leadership, transition financing, and rebuilding.

The first lesson is that political engagement needs to be sustained throughout a transition and beyond, he said. "After a transition, we need to intensify our focus on collaborating with local and national governments to rebuild vital systems."

The second lesson is the importance of national leadership and ownership of the transition process, he said.

Peacekeeping missions can help put a country on the right track. But only national stakeholders can keep it there over the long term, he said. "We want to make sure that national government institutions, partners and civil society groups -- especially those representing women, minorities and young people -- are all working together to carry peace forward, and build truly representative, responsive and accountable institutions."

The leaders and people of countries in transition must be the ultimate architects of peace, with the United Nations and the international community playing a supporting role, he added.

The third lesson is the importance of sustainable transition financing, he said.

The closure of a UN peacekeeping mission often coincides with shrinking and less predictable aid flows as global attention wanes. This "financial cliff" can be a huge risk for a country still taking those first tentative steps toward sustainable peace and development, he warned.

The UN Peacebuilding Fund aims to partially close these gaps. But much more resources would be needed, he said.

"I welcome the General Assembly's decision to convene a high-level meeting on financing for peacebuilding next year. As demand for support from the Peacebuilding Fund continues to outpace available resources, we must build momentum. We need to match the rhetorical commitment of member states to peacebuilding with concrete outcomes in how this commitment is financed."

The fourth lesson, he said, is to support national authorities as they protect people and rebuild for the future.

When a UN mission closes, the risks to civilians and vulnerable groups do not simply vanish, he said. "We need to help governments establish stronger security and protection systems. We need to ensure that parties to conflict live up to their obligations under international law. And we need the help of this (Security) Council to address any remaining threats to civilians."

Peace is a long process, whose path is seldom straightforward. And the role of the United Nations and the international community remains essential as these countries continue their journeys, he said.

"Peace is possible. Peace is necessary. Peace is the only pathway to a sustainable future. I look forward to working with this council to continue strengthening the transition process, and pursuing our shared goal of peace -- for all people in all countries," said Guterres.
 Flash

Another 38,975 people in Britain have tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total number of coronavirus cases in the country to 7,094,592, according to official figures released Wednesday.

The country also recorded another 191 coronavirus-related deaths. The total number of coronavirus-related deaths in Britain now stands at 133,674. These figures only include the deaths of people who died within 28 days of their first positive test.

The latest data came as the Office for National Statistics (ONS) have released provisional counts of the number of deaths registered in England and Wales in the week ending Aug. 27, 2021.

On death registrations where COVID-19 is mentioned on the death certificate, there were 769 deaths involving coronavirus in the week ending Aug. 27, an increase from 654 deaths in the week before.

"It's not surprising, for several reasons (vaccinations, changes in working patterns, the removal of lockdowns, and so on) that the people who, sadly, do die of reasons involving COVID-19, are on average younger than they were during the pandemic peak at the start of 2021," said professor Kevin McConway from the Open University.

Nearly 89 percent of people aged 16 and over in Britain have had their first dose of vaccine and more than 80 percent have received both doses, the latest figures showed.

More than half of all teenagers aged 16 to 17 in England have already received their first dose, just over four weeks after the green light was given for this age group to be offered the vaccine.

It comes as a new campaign has been launched on social media to encourage more vaccine uptake among younger adults and children eligible for the jab.

The chief medical officers of Britain's all four nations are reviewing the wider benefits of vaccinating healthy 12 to 15-year-olds, such as minimising school absences, after Britain's vaccine advisory body, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), declined to recommend a widespread rollout to the age group on health grounds alone.

To bring life back to normal, countries such as Britain, China, Germany, Russia and the United States have been racing against time to roll out coronavirus vaccines.
 Flash

Russian President Vladimir Putin and European Council President Charles Michel on Wednesday expressed readiness for cooperation to stabilize the situation in Afghanistan and avoid the risk of terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking.

Putin and Michel held a telephone conversation to discuss in detail the situation in Afghanistan, the Kremlin said in a press release.

It said both parties stressed the importance of maintaining peace, preventing violence, and launching a practical intra-Afghan dialogue to guarantee the country's integrity, with due consideration for the interests of all groups in the country.

Earlier on Wednesday, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia has not yet planned to hold talks with the newly formed Afghan government but will establish contacts through its embassy in Kabul and continue to monitor the situation.
 Flash

Moscow and the whole international community have reasons to worry about U.S. military biological labs' operations near Russia, deputy chairman of the Russian Investigative Committee Alexander Fedorov has said.

The concern is caused by the "uncontrolled and unrestricted expansion of foreign biological infrastructure belonging to the U.S. military" near Russian borders, Fedorov was quoted by Sputnik news agency as saying Monday.

In May, first deputy secretary of the Russian Security Council Yuri Averyanov also voiced concern over U.S. and NATO military biological programs adjacent to Russia.

He noted that the deadly microorganisms created or studied at these facilities could "accidentally" be released into the environment, potentially causing mass casualties among civilians.
 Flash

General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a message of congratulations to Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on the 73rd anniversary of the DPRK's founding.

In his congratulatory message, Xi noted that over the past 73 years since the DPRK's founding, the WPK has united and led the DPRK people to make relentless efforts and achieve great successes in advancing the socialist cause.

As a comrade and friend, China is sincerely happy about that, he added.

Noting that the DPRK people are now thoroughly carrying out the decisions made at the 8th Congress of the WPK and going all out to promote economic and social development, Xi said China is confident that under the strong leadership of the WPK Central Committee headed by Kim, the DPRK people, forging ahead in unity, will surely build their country better.

He stressed that the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK, which has kept growing stronger over time, is a precious treasure shared by the two sides.

Xi recalled that in recent years, he and Kim have maintained close communication and guided bilateral ties to steadily move forward and continuously produce gratifying results, which has further enriched the China-DPRK traditional friendship.

Emphasizing that he attaches great importance to the development of the China-DPRK relationship, Xi said he is ready to work with Kim to promote bilateral friendly and cooperative relations for steady and sustained development and lift the ties to higher levels, so as to create more benefits for both countries and their people.


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Choteau, MT (59422)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 74F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low around 40F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.
I have been stuck here for a while. Allow me, readers, to step away from my usual and be real for a minute! Have you ever heard the term, writers block? Let me break it down for you; A writer's block is somewhere you find yourself wanting to write, but as soon as you start you are staring at a blank page, for the longest while words are in your head but yet; it seems hard for the words to transfer from your brain to a paper or a document.

That is the place where I have been for the last eight (8) months. It may not be the first time I have been here, but it is perhaps the longest it has lasted.

Pouring from an empty cup

You know, let us keep it very real, we have a very bad habit of giving, giving and giving some more, until we have absolutely nothing left because as our grandparents may have told us, you must be kind and have a giving heart.

I know my Caribbeans can definitely relate; even my internationals too. While nothing is wrong with giving and I am in no way telling you to be unkind, it can be draining if you are trying to stretch yourself thin until you have no more strength or ideas left in you to give.

For those of you who drive, if you continue driving a car and the gas tank is on E, chances are that that car will eventually shut off. Its the same for writers.

What do I do to get out of here?

When I am here, I feel unmotivated and absolutely unworthy of my craft. It drains me dry. That is my emotion and not what God says about me. Sometimes when we find ourselves in situations like these, we wallow in them, sometimes longer than we should. Be honest with yourselves; I'm not lying!

Seasons change

there is a quote we use every so often, especially since the most recent leap year 2020, and living in a pandemic, nothing last forever. Rightfully so, remember the scripture says,

For everything, there is a season, and a time to everything under heaven:

2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.

(Ecclesiastes chapter verses 1 - 4).

Additionally, the word of God also tells us that,

5For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. (Psalm chapter 30 verse 5)

In conclusion, no matter how much you enjoy being creative, your brain is a part of the process and in a time such as today where self-care and mental health are on the lips of everybody it's important to give, but your brain is constantly working. It needs rest and if you don't rest it you will not function.
Carpinteria, CA (93013)

Today

Cloudy early, becoming mostly sunny this afternoon. High 66F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 56F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.
Christian Beamish took leave of his position at Coastal View News in October 2020, to pursue his surfboard business, Surfboards California, full time. He continues his monthly column. The former Associate Editor of The Surfers Journal, Beamish is also the author of Voyage of the Cormorant (Patagonia Books, 2012) about his single-handed expedition down the coast of Baja California by sail and oar in his self-built Shetland Isle beach boat. He lives with his wife and two children in Carpinteria.
Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Marketsize was valued at USD xx million in 2019 and is expected to reach US $ xx million by 2026, at a CAGR of xx% during a forecast period.

Vacuum mixing of bone cement has been used in cemented hip-joint replacement procedures to improve the mechanical properties of bone cement.

The report covers the current estimated and forecasted data for the Vacuum Mixing Devices Market on a global and regional level. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the Vacuum Mixing Devices Market for the period 2019  2026, wherein 2019 is the base year and the period from 2020 to 2026 is the forecast period.

Request for Sample with Complete TOC and Figures & Graphs @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/report/sample/13531

Data for 2016- 2018 has been included as historical information. The study provides a detailed perspective on market growth, throughout the above forecast period in terms of revenue estimates (in US$ MN), across the different geographies, which include North America (NA), Europe (EU), Asia Pacific (APAC), Middle East & Africa (MEA) and Latin America (LATAM).

The report provides qualitative and quantitative insights on the Vacuum Mixing Devices industry trends and a detailed analysis of market size and growth rate of all segment in the market. The global vacuum mixing devices market is segmented by Product by Modality, End User and Region.

Key Players Operated in Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Market

Zimmer Biomet, Heraeus Holding, Stryker, DJO Global Inc., Johnson and Johnson, MDM Medical, Summit Medical Group, Merit Medical Systems, Malcom, Reitel, Morita, Cardinal Health, Exactech Inc., Smith & Nephew plc, Cook Group Incorporated, Biopsybell S.R.L.

Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Market Dynamics

The growing applications of vacuum-mixing devices in clinical research help in expansion of the global market, as it is in relation to its growth by growing adoption rate among professionals. Benefits associated with an advanced form of vacuum-mixing devices provide a suitable environment for mixing bone cement.

Companies involved in the vacuum-mixing devices benefited by growing their product portfolio, which provides advance features and suitable environment. Clinical difference that omit such harmful conditions play a significant role in the expansion for their product line in terms of sales.

Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Market COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS

The top players contribute a significant share to the global vacuum mixing devices market by their presence in most of the developed and developing economies, as well as the premium cost of the products offered by them and the comparably high adoption rate. The vacuum-mixing devices market consists of several small- to medium-sized companies that compete with one other, and only a few large enterprises.

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Global vacuum mixing devices market penetration through various sales channels is also expected to remain a prominent strategy, wherein manufacturers choose influential marketing to turn consumer decisions to their favor. Large-scale promotion of their products through press conferences and advertising campaigns are to be prioritized the market players to sustain revenue growth.

Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Market SEGMENT ANALYSIS

By Modality

Vacuum mixing devices manufacturers are focusing on increased production of portable formats, by making more investment from bench-top to portable. Competitive pricing of the products and endeavouring launch of reusable vacuum mixing devices to successfully lift up their profit pools, drive the global vacuum mixing devices market in the forecast period.

In addition, the global vacuum mixing devices market key players are shifting their focus toward development of vacuum mixing devices offering high computability with samples of varying viscosities. This move does not only have a profound contribution to the relevance of their product portfolios but also gives these players an edge over their potential competitors.

By End User

Ambulatory surgical centers commended the largest market share of global vacuum mixing devices market, by evolution of vacuum cement mixing systems and vast clinical applications.

Ambulatory surgical centres are among the prominent end-user of the vacuum-mixing devices market. Proven results of using vacuum mixing technologies have generated confidence amongst end-users, this leads to grow the global market in the forecast period. Growing commercial applications of vacuum mixing devices as well as influence of mixing systems to reduce porosity and mechanical strength of bone cement foster the global vacuum mixing devices market by forecast 2019-2026.

Rise in the number of traumatic cases and dental cases, which require the use of vacuum-mixing devices, is among the main factors driving the growth of the vacuum-mixing devices market in the region. Presence of market leaders with premium pricing for their vacuum-mixing devices is the opportunity for global market to increase revenue. In developing countries of North America, end users tend to prefer products from local or regional manufacturers over branded products from international players. And the adoption of reusable vacuum-mixing devices is comparably more in developing regions. These all factors drive the global artificial disks market in North America.

Global Vacuum Mixing Devices Market Key Players

 Zimmer Biomet

 Heraeus Holding

 Stryker

 DJO Global Inc.

 Johnson and Johnson

 MDM Medical

 Summit Medical Group

 Merit Medical Systems

 Malcom

 Reitel

 Morita

 Cardinal Health

 Exactech Inc.

 Smith & Nephew plc

 Cook Group Incorporated

 Biopsybell S.R.L.

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According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Fuel Cell Technology Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.2% during the forecast period. Growing private as well as public investments is influencing the market growth. However, factors such as high catalyst cost and lack of proper fuel infrastructures are hampering the market growth.

Fuel cells are used for converting chemical energy into electrical energy. However, the fuel is mainly full from the outside; thus making these cells feel as if the engine is converting fuel power without actually burning it. In addition, the dramatic shift and focus towards generation of renewable energy coupled by government initiative has kept the future of the market robust.

Based on the type, proton-exchange membrane fuel cell segment have a huge demand across the world due to higher power to area ratio than the other types due to the higher associated installation costs. By geography, North America is expected to grow at a faster rate due to increasing the demand for the fuel cell by improving the infrastructure and decreasing the cost of the fuel cells.

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Some of the key players in Fuel Cell Technology market include AFC energy (UK), Ballard Power Systems Inc., Ceramic Fuel Cell, Doosan Corporation, FuelCell Energy, Hydrogenics, Kyocera (Japan), Panasonic Corporation, Plug Power and Toshiba Corporation.

Types Covered:

 Alkaline fuel cells (AFC)

 Direct carbon fuel cells (DCFC)

 Direct Methanol Fuel Cell

 Microbial fuel cells (MFC)

 Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell

 Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cell

 Proton-Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell

 Protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFC)

 Solid Oxide Fuel Cell

 Zinc air fuel cells (ZAFC)

 Other Types

Fuel Types Covered:

 Anaerobic Digester gas

 Hydrogen

 Methanol

 Natural gas/ Methane

 Other Fuel Types

Applications Covered:

 Transport

 Stationary

 Portable

Regions Covered:

 North America

o US

o Canada

o Mexico

 Europe

o Germany

o UK

o Italy

o France

o Spain

o Rest of Europe

 Asia Pacific

o Japan

o China

o India

o Australia

o New Zealand

o South Korea

o Rest of Asia Pacific

 South America

o Argentina

o Brazil

o Chile

o Rest of South America

 Middle East & Africa

o Saudi Arabia

o UAE

o Qatar

o South Africa

o Rest of Middle East & Africa

Place a Direct Purchase Order @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/checkout/12077/Single

What our report offers:

 Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments

 Market share analysis of the top industry players

 Strategic recommendations for the new entrants

 Market forecasts for a minimum of 9 years of all the mentioned segments, sub-segments, and the regional markets

 Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)

 Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations

 Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends

 Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments

 Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

 Company Profiling

o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)

o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)

 Regional Segmentation

o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the clients interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)

 Competitive Benchmarking

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According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Organic Dairy market accounted for $18.00 billion in 2017 and is expected to reach $41.00 billion by 2026 growing at a CAGR of 9.6% during the forecast period. Technological advancements for developing innovative products and governments of numerous countries are encouraging organic farming practices are some of the key driving factors for the market growth. However, high cost and restrictive regulations may hinder the market growth.

Organic dairy products are procured from livestock which is raised from side to side organic farming methods. Additionally, these products offer a number of health benefits such as boosting metabolism, strengthening immunity, reducing muscles and joint pain, and minimizing the risk of cancer and heart diseases.

Based on the distribution channel, supermarkets segment is expected to have a huge demand during the forecast period due to the ease of use of more shelf-space and a large number of products to choose from which is a bringing factor more buyers and are usually located in the central parts of cities. By geography, Europe region is growing in constantly due to growing demand for organic food products, as a result the large part of Europes agricultural land is being managed for organic farming .

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Some of the key players profiled in the Organic Dairy include Whole Foods Market, Wallaby Yogurt Company Inc, Stonyfield Farm Inc., Purity Foods Inc., Organic Valley, Kroger, Horizon Organic, BJs Wholesale Club, Ben & Jerrys Homemade Inc., Aurora Organic Dairy and Arla Foods A.M.B.A.

Packaging Types Covered:

 Bottles

 Cans

 Pouches

 Tetra-packs

 Other Packaging Types

Product Types Covered:

 Organic Butter

 Organic Cheese

 Organic Cream

 Organic Fluid Milk

 Organic Yogurt

 Other Products

Distribution Channel:

 Convenience and Grocery Stores

 Direct Sales

 Discount Stores

 Hypermarkets

 Online/E-Retailing

 Organic Specialty Stores

 Supermarkets

 Other Distribution Channels

Regions Covered:

 North America

o US

o Canada

o Mexico

 Europe

o Germany

o UK

o Italy

o France

o Spain

o Rest of Europe

 Asia Pacific

o Japan

o China

o India

o Australia

o New Zealand

o South Korea

o Rest of Asia Pacific

 South America

o Argentina

o Brazil

o Chile

o Rest of South America

 Middle East & Africa

o Saudi Arabia

o UAE

o Qatar

o South Africa

o Rest of Middle East & Africa

Place a Direct Purchase Order @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/checkout/12078/Single

What our report offers:

 Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments

 Market share analysis of the top industry players

 Strategic recommendations for the new entrants

 Market forecasts for a minimum of 9 years of all the mentioned segments, sub-segments, and the regional markets

 Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)

 Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations

 Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends

 Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments

 Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

Free Customization Offerings:

All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

 Company Profiling

o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)

o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)

 Regional Segmentation

o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the clients interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)

 Competitive Benchmarking

o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances

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According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Mobile Video Surveillance Market is accounted for $1,401 million in 2017 and is expected to reach $3,196.93 million by 2026 growing at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period. Some of the key factors fueling the market are increasing demand of intelligent and scalable mobile video surveillance solutions, rising demand for cloud-based mobile video surveillance solutions, and growing adoption for IP cameras. However, high initial cost and privacy issues related to the usage of data provided by these systems hamper the growth of mobile video surveillance market.

Mobile Video Surveillance is an appliance which enables embedded image capture capabilities that allows video images or extracted information to be compressed, stored or transmitted over communication networks or digital data link. Digital video surveillance systems are used for any type of monitoring.

Based on the application, drones segment is expected to grow at a significant rate during the forecast period. A drone is a flying robot that can be remotely controlled or fly autonomously through software-controlled flight plans in their embedded systems, working in conjunction with onboard sensors and GPS.

By Geography, Asia Pacific is anticipated to grow at the constantly during the forecast period. Continuous rising demand for mobile video surveillance systems in the transportation sector, increasing terrorist and crime activities, increased government spending on security equipment and initiatives to implement security cameras in public places help to drive the mobile video surveillance market in Asia Pacific region.

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Some of the key players in Global Mobile Video Surveillance market are Avigilon, Axis Communications, Bosch Security Systems, Dahua, Flir, Hanwha Techwin, Hikvision, Infinova, elco, Tyco International and United Technologies.

Systems Covered:

 Analog Video Surveillance

 IP Video Surveillance

Applications Covered:

 Buses

 Drones

 Police Cars

 Trains and Trams

 Transport Vehicles

Offerings Covered:

 Hardware

 Service

 Software

End Users Covered:

 Transportation

 Law Enforcement

 Industrial

 Military and Defense

Regions Covered:

 North America

o US

o Canada

o Mexico

 Europe

o Germany

o UK

o Italy

o France

o Spain

o Rest of Europe

 Asia Pacific

o Japan

o China

o India

o Australia

o New Zealand

o South Korea

o Rest of Asia Pacific

 South America

o Argentina

o Brazil

o Chile

o Rest of South America

 Middle East & Africa

o Saudi Arabia

o UAE

o Qatar

o South Africa

o Rest of Middle East & Africa

Place a Direct Purchase Order @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/checkout/12086/Single

 What our report offers:

o  Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments

o  Strategic recommendations for the new entrants

o  Market forecasts for a minimum of 9 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets

o  Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)

o  Strategic analysis: Drivers and Constraints, Product/Technology Analysis, Porters five forces analysis, SWOT analysis etc.

o  Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations

o  Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends

o  Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments

o  Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

 Free Customization Offerings:

o All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

o Company Profiling

o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)

o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)

o Regional Segmentation

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o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances.

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According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Automotive Cyber Security Market is accounted for $1.09 billion in 2017 and is expected to reach $6.81 billion by 2026 growing at a CAGR of 22.6% during the forecast period. Some of the key factors influencing the market are increasing amount of vehicle electronics and the growing adoption of advanced vehicle technologies. However, high installation cost of cyber security solutions and the high price of connected vehicles in which these security solutions are installed restricts the market growth of automotive cyber security market.

Security in automotive industry have grown along with autonomous vehicles and connected cars. This results in the increase in the level of cyber-attacks in the automotive industry. The vehicle comprising of various electrical components that are connected by means of an internal network is easily accessible to hackers. The hackers could take complete control on safety of critical components such as engines or brakes by gaining access to a peripheral electronic control unit.

On the basis of electric vehicle, hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) segment has a growing prominence because, as this vehicle combines a conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) system with an electric propulsion system. The presence of the electric powertrain is intended to achieve either better fuel economy than a conventional vehicle or better performance.

By Geography, Asia Pacific is anticipated to exhibit the considerable growth due to the increasing vehicle production, changing in-vehicle electronic architecture, increasing in-vehicle services connected to the external cloud, and expansion of leading OEMs amongst automotive component suppliers. The market growth in this region can also be attributed to the increasing sales of connected vehicles and government initiatives regarding the use of environment-friendly electric vehicles.

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Some of the key players in Global Automotive Cyber Security market are Aptiv, Continental AG, Denso Corporation, Escrypt GmbH, Guardknox Cyber Technologies Ltd., Harman International, Honeywell International Inc., Karamba Security, NXP, Robert Bosch GmbH, Saferide Technologies Ltd, Symantec Corporation, Trillium Secure Inc. and Vector Informatik GmbH.

Forms Covered:

 External Cloud Services

 In-Vehicle

Vehicles Covered:

 Commercial Vehicle

 Passenger Car

Electric Vehicles Covered:

 Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV)

 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV)

 Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)

Securities Covered:

 Application Security

 Cloud Security

 Endpoint Security

 Hardware Security

 Network Security

 Wireless Network Security

 Other Security

Components Covered:

 Hardware

 Software

 Services

Applications Covered:

 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) & Safety System

 Body Control & Comfort System

 Communication System

 Infotainment System

 On-board diagnostic (OBD)

 Powertrain System

 Safety systems

 Telematics System

 Other Applications

Technologies Covered:

 Consulting

 Integration

 Managed Security

 Unified Threat Management

 Other Technology

Regions Covered:

 North America

o US

o Canada

o Mexico

 Europe

o Germany

o UK

o Italy

o France

o Spain

o Rest of Europe

 Asia Pacific

o Japan

o China

o India

o Australia

o New Zealand

o South Korea

o Rest of Asia Pacific

 South America

o Argentina

o Brazil

o Chile

o Rest of South America

 Middle East & Africa

o Saudi Arabia

o UAE

o Qatar

o South Africa

o Rest of Middle East & Africa

Place a Direct Purchase Order @ https://www.trendsmarketresearch.com/checkout/12088/Single

 What our report offers:

o  Market share assessments for the regional and country level segments

o  Strategic recommendations for the new entrants

o  Market forecasts for a minimum of 9 years of all the mentioned segments, sub segments and the regional markets

o  Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)

o  Strategic analysis: Drivers and Constraints, Product/Technology Analysis, Porters five forces analysis, SWOT analysis etc.

o  Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations

o  Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends

o  Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments

o  Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements

 Free Customization Offerings:

o All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:

o Company Profiling

o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)

o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)

o Regional Segmentation

o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the clients interest (Note: Depends of feasibility check)

o Competitive Benchmarking

o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances.

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Spane, 9 SEPTEMBER 2021 In this day and age, Karl Peter Trebbau Millowitsch has become a well-known name that leaves a major benchmark on many individuals hearts. This article helps everyone to know about the biography of Karl Peter Trebbau Millowitsch which is also regarded as pedro trebbau. He is actually a zoologist who dedicated their whole life to wildlife. Peter loves animals and doesnt get afraid of any animal in their life. The main purpose of his life is to promote the conversion of the flora and fauna, and he started his journey when he heard about the background of his grandfather that his grandfather has a huge involvement in building a zoo. After hearing about his grandfathers huge involvement in the zoo, he decided to study zoology and became the director of a zoological park. After that, peter decided to go to Venezuela for enhancing his knowledge.



It was the best opportunity for peter to gain enough knowledge about the animals by studying in Venezuela, but he faces so many hurdles in their daily life. During the second world war, the residents of Germany get only two options, including surrender and live, and Peter chooses to live. After that, his family owned a theatre and gets huge popularity in the area. His family also introduced him as an actor in the films. Before and during the world war, trebbau experience several problems and get familiar with the geography of Venezuela. He has an ability to interact with wildlife animals and other species without getting afraid, and he is also familiar with the people of Venezuela. There are many individuals who dont have enough information about the life of pedro trebbau, and they can visit the pedro trebbau website to get familiar with his whole life. If needed, interested individuals can click here or visit our official website to know more about pedro trebbau lopez.



Before entering Venezuela, peter takes a semester to learn the Spanish language at the Barcelona university, due to which he didnt experience any problem understanding the language. After returning to Germany in 1957, he returned to Venezuela in 1958 for further studies, and then, he was appointed as a director at El Pinar Zoo. He also got several awards during the realm of television, like the USA Academy of Television Sciences and Arts Award. The family was a major duty for him, and he always wanted to build his family in Venezuela. He and an 18-years old lady named Helena Lopez Fraino started their journey in the wildlife from then. He kept a lion with himself only to give shelter and better care to the lion. Individuals with expectations to know about pedro trebbau lopez venezuela and other details can feel free to visit this site.







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Litchfield, CT (06759)

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Cloudy early with scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 81F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Thunderstorms. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Connecticuts incarcerated population has been steadily declining for more than a decade and is now at a 32-year low, even as those identified as being more high-risk are serving more of their original sentences than ever before, Lamont said. Spending millions of dollars in annual operating costs on buildings that have historically low numbers of incarcerated individuals inside is just not a good use of resources.
Just two months ago Biden prematurely declared the nations independence from the virus. Now, despite more than 208 million Americans having at least one dose of the vaccines, the U.S. is seeing about 300% more new COVID-19 infections a day, about two-and-a-half times more hospitalizations, and nearly twice the number of deaths compared to the same time last year.
Though most officials say mask compliance hasnt been a major issue in day-to-day life, opponents of mask mandates have made their presence known at protests across the state. In South Windsor, council members adjourned their meeting early on Tuesday when a member of the public refused to wear a mask; in Bristol, a board of education meeting was suspended in mid-August when a group of people walked into the meeting and refused to comply with the masking policy.
When anyone feels alone, we as a community need to make sure were the light that we need to be to walk people home safely - whether thats back into the fold of family or to a safe place where everyone can be their best self, Rev. Chris Solimene, pastor of the Avon Congregational Church, told the rally.
Overall, 115,800 children  or 77% of all children in the First Congressional District  will benefit, officials said. Since families with children under the age of 6 will receive the highest amounts, 3,100 children in the district will no longer be in poverty. Families who have children in poverty would receive an average of $4,700 per year, while the average benefit  including older children  is $2,600 per household, officials said.
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Reaching the town of Jeremie in the most remote part of the earthquake zone cleared the way for aid agencies and governments to start the long task of helping Haiti rebuild  the same mission the helicopters operating off the Arlingtons flight deck had done farther east, said Capt. Eric Kellum the ships commanding officer, after docking back at Pier 10, Naval Station Norfolk on Wednesday.
Lubbock, TX (79409)

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Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph..

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In its June 30 order, the top court had said a candidate shall be entitled to exercise the option of opting-out of the exam. (Photo: PTI/File)

New Delhi: Candidates who opted-out of the CA exam conducted in July because of COVID-19 related difficulties will not lose any opportunity, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) told the Supreme Court on Thursday.

The apex court, which was hearing an application seeking a direction to the ICAI to conduct back up examination for opt-out candidates, asked the applicants to make a representation on this to the institute.

A bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar was told by ICAI's counsel that an appropriate decision will be taken on the representation within two weeks.

Senior advocate Ramji Srinivasan, appearing for the institute, told the bench that there will be no loss of opportunity to candidates who had opted-out from the July exam as per the top court order.

In July itself, we had said those candidates who have opted-out pursuant to your lordships' leave, will have their back up in November 2021 along with the main cycle. It will not be treated as an attempt and they will not lose any benefits. They will get the benefit of the same old syllabus, Srinivasan told the bench, which also comprised Justices Hrishikesh Roy and C T Ravikumar.

In its June 30 order, the top court had said a candidate shall be entitled to exercise the option of opting-out of the exam if he or she or any family member has suffered COVID-19 in the recent past and the fact is certified by a registered medical practitioner.

That will not be considered as an attempt in the examination as such and the candidate will be permitted to appear in the back up examination, to be conducted for the old as well as the new syllabus, subject to conducive situation prevailing at the relevant time, the court had said.

During the hearing on Thursday, advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the applicants, referred to the June 30 order about back up examination and said those who had opted-out would essentially lose one attempt.

They (ICAI) should be directed to hold a back up examination instead of saying that you appear in the regular exam cycle, Bhushan said, adding that from next year the syllabus will be new.

Let me assuage the apprehensions of my friend. There will be no loss of opportunity to people who had opted-out, Srinivasan said.

On the issue of holding back up exam, he said there were logistical problems last year and the institute needs about five to six months to prepare for examination.

The bench told Srinivasan that these candidates can appear in the November examination but asked whether it was possible to conduct one more examination under the old syllabus.

Srinivasan assured the bench that no candidate will lose his or her opportunity.

The bench said for the time being, it is not disturbing the examination cycle and the ICAI can take appropriate decision on the representation to be filed by the applicants.

You make representation. The institute is very open to all suggestions, the bench told Bhushan.

Bhushan said the institute should consider having back-up examination even if they have it after November.

The bench observed it will not force them to have back-up examination as the ICAI has given up this idea due to its experience.

We don't wish to continue this petition in view of the stand taken by the institute that all aspects brought to the notice of the institute will be taken into account and appropriate decision which is in the best interest of the candidates will be take provided the same is consistent with the policy and extant rules, the bench said in its order.

The bench permitted the applicants to make representation to the ICAI.

In its June 30 order, the apex court had made clear that a candidate need not produce RT-PCR test if medical certificate issued by registered medical practitioners for his family members is produced along with request for opting out of the July examination.
Hyderabad: Meghana Musunuri, founder-chairperson of Fountainhead Global School and Junior College is the first person to be part of Google's Women Entrepreneurs on the Web and who has completed all five circles of the program.

Winning the Global Teacher Prize Award is akin to a Nobel Prize for her.

Teachers are extremely passionate but the recognition that they get is limited. It is very important to be out there and tell the world what all you are doing and that makes the difference, she said in an interview with Deccan Chronicle. Excerpts:

How did you get into teaching?

On returning to India from London, I started the school as I was very passionate about teaching. Moreover, my roots are here. That is what made me to come back and integrate new-age technology and teaching. It was experimentation, so to say. With Google, we developed teaching tools and started using them from 2012 onwards. I have been operating my administration on Google, which was new then. We trained our teachers, staff and blended technology with education to bring out the best in us. Last year, when the pandemic forced a shift from offline to online classrooms, we hardly faced any difficulty in the transition as we were using these tools for long. I had teachers and educators from other schools who wanted to know how we did it and they are learning from our experience."

Did the Global Teacher Prize Award take this initiative into account?

The award looks at your overall contribution to society. It takes into account how you have made education interesting for students and also how it has helped them in real life. There were lots of rounds and lots of parameters before they closed in on 50 teachers. The school has worked towards reviving the Meedi Kunta Lake and that contribution is very important. Apart from contributions from me and my faculty, children used money meant to celebrate their birthdays for saving the lake. These real-life aspects have enriched the experience of teaching. We believe that locally we must make an impact and our efforts towards that helped in reviving the lake.

You teach social studies, English and maths. These are three different subjects. How do you manage?

Social studies as a subject is labelled dry and often children wonder what they would do by learning history. The onus is on teachers to make it interesting and create a learning curve that can help shape ones future. We have created tools, samples and also practical models to make it interesting.

Similarly, children fear maths but our effort has been to mix maths and art. This has produced amazing results. I strongly believe that a teacher should strive to handle multiple subjects. In fact, I encourage all my teachers to teach different subjects as it evolves their respective teaching abilities.

Are you looking forward to more interviews for the Global Teacher Prize Award?

Yes. There are more interviews lined up and I am looking forward to it. Next in the line is a round for the top 10 category globally.
The court directed principal secretary (panchayat raj) and the Swachh Andhra Corporation managing director to appear before it in person on September 16. (Twitter)

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh High Court on Wednesday directed two senior government officials to present themselves before it on September 16 in a case dealing with painting ruling party YSR Congress flag colours on waste-to-wealth centres in the state.

The court was hearing a petition filed by P. Suresh Kumar, Krishna district head of Jai Bheem Access Justice, a social organisation.

Petitioner's counsel Sravan Kumar raised objection over painting waste-to-wealth centres with ruling party colours using government funds.

Agreeing with the petitioners argument, the court directed principal secretary (panchayat raj) and the Swachh Andhra Corporation managing director to appear before it in person on September 16.
Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Thursday expressed confidence about having a BJP Mayor in the Kalaburagi city corporation, as he said that discussions on alliance with JD(S) to gain control over the urban local body that got a fractured mandate, was at the preliminary stage.

"The discussions are still at the preliminary stage, I don't want to say anything now itself. But be rest assured of one thing that it will be BJP Mayor," Bommai said in response to a question on JD(S) corporators deciding to join hands with the party that offers them the Mayor's post.

Four newly elected JD(S) corporators of the Kalaburagi city corporation, whose support the Congress and BJP will need to gain power, are said to have decided to join hands with the party that offers them the Mayor's post.

The corporators, along with party leaders from Kalaburgai on Wednesday had met JD(S) supremo and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda and former Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy here and held discussions on the future course of action.

The recent elections to the 55-member Kalaburagi civic body had thrown up a hung verdict, with the Congress winning 27, BJP 23, JD(S) 4 and one Independent.

The halfway mark is 28, making JD(S) corporators the "kingmakers".

Both Congress and BJP have made attempts to seek support of the JD(S) to gain control of the corporation. Congress veteran Mallikarjun Kharge, who hails from the region, has reached out to Gowda, while Bommai has held talks with Kumaraswamy.

Stating that he had spoken to the JD(S) leader on "going together" in Kalaburagi Corporation, Bommai on Tuesday had hinted at BJP joining hands with the regional party.

There are also reports that both Gowda and Kumaraswamy may not be on the same page on whom to support. While Gowda is inclined towards allying with the Congress, Kumaraswamy seems to be looking towards the BJP.
Sucharita said Lokesh is indulging in 'corpse politics' as he was going to meet the parents of akilled girl student Kota Anusha some seven months after the death. (DC Image)

Vijayawada: AP Home Minister Mekatoti Sucharita said on Thursday the state government is contemplating the setting up of fast-track courts to try cases relating to attacks on women.

The home minister, however, objected to the burning of Disha act copies by Telugu Desam MLC Nara Lokesh and other leaders during the day and claimed the YSRC government is swiftly acting against the culprits in cases of attacks on women and girls.

Addressing the media here, she said Lokesh and TD have no respect for laws, and hence he and his associates have burnt copies of the Disha act. TDs tradition and culture are to burn things and violate laws, she alleged.

Earlier, Lokesh along with Telugu Mahila president Vangalapudi Anitha and some other leaders burned copies of the Disha act at Lokeshs house in Karkatta in Undavalli. They alleged that there was no use having the act as there were continuous attacks on girls and women in the state. They said this showed chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy was unable to govern the state properly.

Sucharita said Lokesh is indulging in corpse politics as he was going to meet the parents of akilled girl student Kota Anusha some seven months after the death.

Rejecting allegations of police inaction following the murder of engineering girl student Nallapu Ramya, the minister said the government offered Rs. 10 lakh as aid to the family, gave a job to Ramya's sister as a junior assistant, allotted five cents of land for erecting a house and also allotted five acres of farmland to the family for cultivation.

She said the government is planning to establish a fast-track court if possible to punish the accused in such cases in a quick manner.

Sucharita stated that the TD government was inactive when it came to taking action against the guilty when attacks on women occurred during its term. She recalled that in 2018, Sugali Preeti was killed in Kurnool but the then TD government ignored the case.

She said the case was handed over to the CBI by the YSRC government. If Lokesh really is concerned about women's safety, he should ask Parliament to enact stronger legislation quickly.

The minister said, Our government has filed charge sheets in 1,600 cases within a weeks time after such incidents occurred.

In a separate press meet, AP Womens Commission chairperson Vasireddy Padma alleged that Lokesh was playing politics with corpses. The attacks on women and girls are unfortunate, but the government is taking stern action to curb the trend. The YSRC government is doing justice to every family, she said, and urged Lokesh to stop misleading the people with false propaganda.
Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao after he was welcomed by minister Mohd. Mahmood Ali upon his return from Delhi, at the Begumpet airport on Thursday. (Twitter)

Hyderabad: Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao returned to the city on Thursday after a nine-day visit to Delhi. He arrived at Begumpet airport by a special flight where he was welcomed by home minister Mohd Mahmood Ali and senior officials. Rao headed straight to Pragathi Bhavan on arrival.

He had left for the national capital on September 1 to lay the foundation for construction of a TRS office in Delhi.

During his stay he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, union ministers Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and submitted several representations seeking funds for Telangana and clearances for projects.

Official sources said that Rao held a meeting with CMO officials at Pragathi Bhavan on Yadadri temple renovation works and also on holding the monsoon session of the Legislative Assembly from September 22.

Special secretary in the CMO, Bhoopal Reddy, who handles Yadadri temple renovation works, briefed him about the progress of works. Rao told officials that he would be visiting Yadadri temple in a week or two along with seer Sri Tridandi Chinna Jeeyar Swamy to review the progress of works and finalise the date of inauguration of the temple. The Chief Minister has invited Modi for inauguration tentatively in October or November.

Rao told officials that as Modi had assured to take part in the inauguration, all pending works should be completed on a war-footing and the temple should be ready for inauguration any time after Dasara.

He sanctioned Rs 1,200 crore for renovation of the temple, the works of which were launched in October 2016. Around Rs 1,000 crore has already been spent.

Rao wants to perform Maha Sudharshana Yagam with nearly 1,000 to 1,500 Ruthviks marking the temples inauguration.
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The Fort Worth Stockyards is bustling with activity, as visitors and locals come to see the famous cattle drive. Cattle drives are held twice 
Pictured is 2nd Lt. Frank Maloney, assigned to 1st Bn., 7th Cav. Regt., 1st Cav. Div., after arriving to Camp Drake in Japan, 1949. Veterans of the 1st Cav. Div. like 92-year-old retired Capt. Frank Maloney, a veteran of the Korean War, have paved the way for new generations to forge their own legacy.
In an unprecedented move, United States President Joe Biden's administration is demanding the immediate resignation of 11 officials who were appointed to the military service academy advisory board by former President Donald Trump or face dismissal.

The individuals that the Democratic leader's party is asking to resign include Sean Spicer, the former Trump White House press secretary, Kellyanne Conway, the former senior counselor to the president, and H.R. McMaster, the former national security adviser. The Republican businessman appointed the officials during his presidency to the advisory boards of the Naval Academy, Air Force Academy, and West Point, respectively.

Resignation or Forced Dismissal

On Wednesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed the Biden administration's request has been made. The official said that the Democratic president's goal was the same as previous presidents, which was to ensure that qualified individuals were the ones holding positions on the boards.

Psaki said she would let others evaluate whether or not the officials asked to resign were qualified for their positions. She reassured that the Biden administration's requirements did not include which party they were aligned with but whether or not they were aligned with the values of his administration, CNN reported.

The total number of Trump appointees that the Biden administration is asking to resign is 18, includes Michael Wynne, retired Gen. John Keane, Meaghan Mobbs, David Urban, John Coale, and Russell Vought. The request noted that the officials had until 6:00 p.m. to resign or they would be forced to remove from their positions.

Read Also: Biden State Dept Takes Rescue Credit of American Family in Afghanistan, GOP Rep. Mullin Debunks Claim Saying They Tried to Sabotage It

The United States president has the authority to appoint six people to each of the board of visitors while Congress fills in the rest. During Trump's presidency, his selected appointees were highly political and controversial and received pushback from Twitter users, ABC News reported.

Refusal To Step Down

In a Twitter post, Vought, the former director of the White House budget office and was appointed to the board of the Naval Academy, declined the request. He captioned the post with, "No. It's a three-year term." Spicer, who was also appointed to the Naval Academy, tweeted similarly, saying Biden should focus on Afghanistan.

On the other hand, Conway said that she would not be stepping down from her post and counter-argued that Biden should be the one to resign as president of the United States. Keane said it was "very disappointing" that President Biden did not plan to uphold the previous president's appointments which have been the tradition in American politics for a long time.

The official noted that when individuals that Trump appointed joined forces with appointees from the Barack Obama administration, the advisory board was "quite stronger" due to its non-partisan partnership. Keane said that one thing appointees shared is the desire to assist and support one of the United States' most esteemed and beloved institutions, the Washington Post reported.

This weekend, McMaster is scheduled to be honored at West Point as a 2021 Distinguished Graduate award recipient. Psaki dismissed accusations that Biden's request for the Trump appointees to resign was politically motivated.

Related Article: Anthony Fauci Faces Widespread Criticism After Leaked Documents Showed Contradiction to His Previous Claims

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White House press secretary Jen Psaki suggested there may be additional restrictions placed on unvaccinated individuals ahead of President Joe Biden's announcement on new COVID-19 measures on Thursday.

Biden To Announce the Next Phase Against COVID-19

In a recently published article in The Hill, the White House said that President Biden will announce additional steps in his administration's COVID-19 response on Thursday, which includes testing, requirements, and school measures based on a person's vaccination status.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said "There are six steps the president's announcing, there will be new components. Some of that will be related to access to testing, some will be related to mandates, some will be related to how we ensure kids will be protected in schools."

Moreover, following the release of the employment report last week, the president said that his administration is looking for measures to make it safer for students to return to school and for employees to return to work, according to a recently published report in Your News.

Read Also: Federal Agency: Businesses Can Require COVID-19 Vaccine, Offer Incentives, Can Universities Do the Same For Staff, College Students?

Officials Finalising the New Steps To Combat the Pandemic

Early this week, authorities were still refining details, but the address would include several components relating to schools, private businesses, and government employee obligations. The address was originally scheduled for Wednesday, but a White House source informed a news outlet later Tuesday morning that the date is still subject to change and that it will instead take place on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Psaki gave little information about the requirements that could be enforced on unvaccinated Americans. She told reporters on Air Force One on Tuesday that the federal government lacks the power to require everyone to be vaccinated, according to a report published in CNN News.

Furthermore, Biden's coronavirus team has been in charge of developing the following steps. There are still certain limits to what the administration can do, and it is still expected that the federal government would not be able to impose a wide vaccine requirement, as officials have previously said.

Biden To Meet His Advisers Before Delivering a Speech

In a recently published article in 247 News Around the World, Biden, who will meet with his COVID-19 advisors on Wednesday, gave a speech six months ago in which he said that the US had "made significant progress" against the virus.

The president's address on Thursday may allude to a recent declaration by the leaders of various government health organizations that third doses of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccinations, often known as booster injections, will be available around September 20. The booster dosages, on the other hand, have yet to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Biden has already mandated that all government workers and contractors get the COVID-19 vaccination or follow rigorous testing and social distancing procedures. To continue receiving Medicare and Medicaid money, Biden also ordered nursing facilities to encourage their employees to receive the vaccination.

As schools reopen and instances of the highly transmissible Delta form have been on the increase, the government is juggling how to convince more Americans to be vaccinated against COVID-19 while also trying to make a third dose of the vaccine accessible in the autumn.

Related Article: Biden Administration Plans to Require Full Vaccination For All Foreign Travelers as Part of Border Reopening Program



@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Fears anew when Taliban death squads enforcing Sharia rule causes the international community to be concerned for the welfare of all Christians left in Kabul. It is of record that the Taliban has an awful history regarding the human right for anyone not agreeing to their impositions.

Taking power from Biden's unwieldy pullout, a humanitarian, and now a religion crisis as the enforcement of Sharia law could get its Christians wiped out by the Jihadi terrorists.

The alarm has been sounded by many that converts and Christians will not be secure as no one is trying to secure their safety, notwithstanding the helplessness of the west after August 31.

Sharia law to bring a religious crisis in Afghanistan

The group European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) of the European Parliament are saying the EU is sending many Christians to mass murder if no action is taken to negotiate with the Terror Islamists, reported the Express UK.

The 63 groups of members of the European parliament were alarmed when Joe Biden took many allies out of the loop on the August 31 deadline. Biden reasoned out that these minorities have been on edge in Afghanistan, which is an Islamic country. On the other side, the situation only changed when the Jihadis took over the country.

The US president has allegedly compounded not only Americans and allies left already getting hunted, but Christians are also facing death and a debacle in leadership. Should Taliban death squads enforcing Sharia rule come knocking, which will be another one on Biden's hands.

Read Also: Taliban Commanders Condemn Fighters Reckless Firing on Premature Celebration Over Fall of Panjshir Killing 17

Christians under fear of reprisals

As many as 10,000 converts are in Afghanistan right now, which is under the Sharia punishable by death for Muslims abandoning the faith. This under the Terrorists Jihadis would be catastrophic in the coming days, as noted by the Hill as more Christians fear for their lives.

From 2001, when the Taliban was defeated, and NATO kicked out Jihadis, allow local Islamic faiths to grown, but the return of Jihadis is dangerous for them. The victory of the Jihadis and ruling Kabul has made Christians run for their lives for possible persecution, with executions and scaring by the lawless terrorists.

ECR spokesman said those who escape need to run to Pakistan, which is equally brutal as the Taliban. Many non-Muslim are victimized by blasphemy laws which the Diplomat said must be repealed.

This situation is similar to Syria, where 1.2 million followers have dwindled to almost 550,000 in 2021. The ECR spokesperson calls to the European Union and the west that the plight of Christians has been left to the mercy of the Taliban, and they might be persecuted. It suggested that the Jihadis must accept conditions before any talks on women and non-Islamic minorities even begin in the country, including the 'Humanitarian Corridors.'

Concerns over Christians and women who should not even leave deserves a peaceful life in the country and not live in fear. If the Taliban death squads enforcing Sharia rule come to the fore, it will be another crisis for those left in Afghanistan. "There will be no democratic system at all because it does not have any base in our country," Taliban leader Waheedullah Hashimi adds.

Related Article: Afghan National Resistance Front Push Back Taliban Attacks in Attempts to Capture the Panjshir Valley

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Nancy Salzman was sentenced to 42 months in prison for her involvement with NXIVM, a large sex cult, due to being the former president and being a co-founder of the group, after the 66-year-old pleaded guilty in March 2019.

The suspect helped the shadowy self-help group and its leader, Keith Raniere, in manipulating thousands of members hiding under the notion of personal growth through sacrifice. Despite Salzman working with authorities against the group's founder, Raniere, prosecutors requested for the high end of the recommended range of 33 to 41 months of jail time.

Sentencing of Sex Cult Co-Founder

In an August sentencing memo, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanya Hajjar wrote that many of the teachings of the NXIVM that Salzman promulgated "disparaged or humiliated" women and made abuse victims responsible for the crimes. The documents added that the suspect assisted Raniere's teachings and helped promote those which were designed to maintain power and control over members of the group.

Prosecutors argued that Salzman instructed that members of the group and anyone who opposed Raniere or NXIVM, including family members and friends, were considered "suppressive" and urged others to avoid them at all costs, The Daily Beast reported.

Salzman's sentencing on Wednesday came after a Brooklyn federal court hearing that involved several former members of NXIVM. They detailed the abuse that they experienced during their time in the group.

A longtime NXIVM member, Ivy Nevares, released an audio statement that was played in the hearing ahead of the verdict. The victim detailed how Salzman was instrumental and essential to the group's existence, along with the crimes it committed against its followers. Nevares worked for the suspect for more than 10 years. She detailed the abuses she endured from the co-founder, which include financial ruin to mental manipulation.

Read Also: Biden Administration Pressures Trump Appointees; Resign or be Forcibly Dismissed

Salzman said during the hearing that she was also a victim of Raniere, arguing against Judge Nicholas Garaufis that she did not deserve to be imprisoned. However, Garaufis rejected the plea for leniency, arguing the suspect had 20 years of working with NXIVM to leave the group whenever she wished, the New York Post reported.

Serving Time for Her Crimes

The suspect's jail time won't start until Jan. 19, 2022, after she undergoes an undisclosed medical procedure. Prosecutors asked for a long term due to Salzman's blind devotion to the cult's leader and cruel actions against NXIVM members.

Toni Natalie, Raniere's ex-girlfriend and one of the early members of NXIVM, delivered an emotional victim impact statement, criticizing Salzman, calling her the leader's "evil partner" before Garaufis delivered the sentence.

Salzman's defense lawyers have requested a sentence of two years in home confinement, arguing that their client "accepted responsibility for enabling the horrific crimes Raniere committed." The legal experts added the suspect suffered from "debilitating physical pain" and "emotional anguish" after her daughter, Lauren Salzman, was included as a member in NXIVM. The younger Salzman pleaded guilty to charges related to the group and the leader's "sadistic attentions."

Her lawyers said the suspect was not taking care of her mother, whose health was deteriorating and would be "gravely impacted by her incarceration," the New York Times reported.

Related Article: Biden State Dept Takes Rescue Credit of American Family in Afghanistan, GOP Rep. Mullin Debunks Claim Saying They Tried to Sabotage It

@ 2021 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
The Yakuza crime lords of Japan are one of the most notorious gangsters with strict and bizarre rituals that differentiate them from other organized crime organizations globally. Members adhere to a strict code that is followed or be meted with severe repercussions, or cross them it will be a reckoning.

Stories and reports about them are in the media, from the tattoos and severed fingers, with the terrible revenge they are capable of should anyone of the members get offended. One of these stories even involves displeasure over their boss's botched operation of his private part.

Mafia boss orders assasination after botched up surgery

Most Japanese men cannot complain if an operation of their privates goes wrong, but not for a Japanese mafia boss. Identified as the mafia godfather of the Yakuza, Satoru Nomura, who became mad and required someone to pay for an unsatisfactory surgery over increasing the size of his private part, reported the Sun UK.

His subordinates called him the God or Emperor, which Nomura demanded. When his member surgery got botched up, he allegedly ordered a hitman to teach the nurse a lesson for the wrong result, noted the Vice.

Failing to assassinate the nurse for the personal infraction, the head of the Kudo-kai Yakuza crime lords was caught and will be hanged for avenging the chief's privates, as they attempted to kill the nurse but failed.

Read Also: LA Most Notorius Gang 'MS-13' With Over 10,000 Members Commit Horrific Crimes, Beheading Victims Including Women and Children

How the Nomura 'hit' attempt in 2013 went down happened this way, contrary to the one that circulated but was not the exact story. One of his men stabbed the nurse in the head after she helped with the post-surgery care after the penile enhancement.

But the nurse treated the mafia godfather with the same care as others, who have undergone the same operation. Nomura said the procedure hurt while the nurse was removing hair from his crotch, and she remarked the tattoos must hurt more. The crime chief felt scorned, the reason why she was attacked, but she luckily survived.

Later Nomura was caught red-handed for directing the slaying of the head of a fishing cooperative who defied the will of the Yakuza.

Distinct practices of the Yakuza

Members of the Japanese mafia have to get tattoos and fingers cut as a reminder of their mistakes. Other activities they do are drugs, prostitution, gambling, loan sharking, and protection rackets as sources of income. Yakuzas have even claimed their eradication of petty lawbreakers and crimes tolerated by authorities cited Global Initiative. If there was any violence on the street level, it was assumed to be between crime families only.

Before, custom declared that bosses ordering a hit would pay a large sum and grovel to be pardoned, then authorities would send their minions to jail. But the Japanese police are targeting mob bosses who attack civilians, not those going after rival gangs related to the Samurai honor code that Yakuza crime lords follow.

Related Article: Heavily Armed Bank Robbers Strap Civilians as Human Shields on Getaway Vehicles to Escape, 3 People Killed

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An elderly woman with dementia from Colorado is set to receive a $3 million settlement after winning case over police officers' rough arrest of the 73-year-old last year, officials said on Wednesday.

The victim, identified as Karen Garner, was arrested by then-officer Austin Hopp after the woman left a story without paying for items she took that were worth about $14. The incident occurred in Loveland located about 80 kilometers north of Denver.

Rough Arrest of Elderly Woman With Dementia

Body camera video recordings showed how Garner turned away from Hopp, who then grabbed her arm and pushed her down to the ground in a rough arrest. The victim later filed a federal lawsuit after she claimed that the incident resulted in a dislocated shoulder after the police officer pushed her handcuffed left arm into the hood of his patrol car.

During the announcement of the proposed settlement, City Manager Steve Adams apologized to Garner and her family for the traumatic experience. Sarah Schielke, Garner's lawyer, confirmed the settlement proposal, NPR reported.

"The settlement with Karen Garner will help bring some closure to an unfortunate event in our community but does not upend the work we have left to do," Adams said during his announcement. The victim's lawyer and family members plan to hold a press conference on Wednesday to discuss the details of the settlement.

In another statement, Adams said the community did not act in a manner that upheld their values, integrity, and policies enforced in the city and among police officers. The announcement came after the lawsuit detailed how Garner was denied medical assistance while being held at the station for hours despite complaining of her injuries.

Read Also: Cyberattack: Germany Protests Against Russia Over Stealing Data Ahead of Election

Authorities charged Hopp with two felony counts of second-degree assault causing serious bodily injury and attempting to influence a public servant. The police officer was also charged with a misdemeanor count of official misconduct, Reuters reported.

Building Back Trust in the Police

A second officer who was involved in Garner's arrest, Daria Jalali, was charged with three misdemeanor counts of failing to report the use of force, failure to intervene, and official misconduct. A spokeswoman for Hopp's attorney said the suspect did not have any comments regarding the case. Two lawyers, who were representing Jalali, also did not comment on the case.

Schielke released internal police documents that showed at the time of Garner's arrest, three police supervisors considered the officers' use of force was "reasonable and appropriate." Police Chief Bob Ticer on Wednesday addressed the issue and said there was no excuse, under any circumstances, to consider Garner's arrest as appropriate.

Body camera footage of the arrest also seemed to show the three officers involved in the arrest laughing during the incident. All three officers resigned following the incident. Allisa Swartz, Garner's daughter, said in May that the suspects deserved to go to jail for what they did to her mother.

Loveland authorities also announced changes to policies and practices within the police department. These include improved use-of-force review and opportunities for residents to engage with department leadership. "We have agreed on steps we need to take to begin building back trust," Ticer said, CBS News reported.

Related Article: Watch: Indonesia Prison Fire Kills 41, Injures 80 in Crowded Block With More Than 3 Times Capacity

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Chinese authorities announced $31 million in assistance to the Taliban's interim administration, more than three times the amount the FBI is paying for information leading to the arrest of Sirajuddin Haqqani.

Taliban Considers China as Their Most Important Partner

In a recently published article in MSN News, a Taliban spokesman said last week that because China is willing to invest and develop their nation, it is their most significant partner and offers a fundamental and exceptional chance for them. Furthermore, China is their gateway to global markets.

In a video conference with counterparts and senior diplomats from Pakistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced the $31 million in aid. Afghanistan will get food, winter supplies, vaccinations, and medications from China.

Furthermore, China said on Wednesday that the Taliban's new interim administration has put an end to "anarchy" in Afghanistan, calling it a "necessary step" toward restoring order, while maintaining its position that the Afghan militant group should form a broad-based political structure and pursue moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, according to a published report in Livemint.

Read Also: China Pledges Taliban To Remain Its Embassy in Afghanistan, Communist Country To Increase Humanitarian Aid

Blinken Criticized the Designation of Global Terrorist of the Dreaded Haqqani Network as the Interior Minister

Secretary of State Antony Blinken sounded a note of caution, noting that several of the key players, notably the recently appointed interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, who the FBI seeks, and four Guantanamo Bay graduates, had a checkered past.

Blinken said during a press briefing at Ramstein Air Base, where he met with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, said "It certainly does not meet the test of inclusivity, and it includes people who have very challenging track records," according to a published article in Daily Advent.

He also added in his statement that the country's involvement with the Taliban and a government, whether temporary or permanent, will be in the national interest, interests of the United States, and the interests of its allies across the globe.

Taliban Formed a New Government

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced a hardline temporary administration headed by Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, with important positions held by high-profile Taliban members, including the interior minister, who is a specially designated global terrorist of the feared Haqqani Network.

Wang, on the other hand, reaffirmed China's position that the Taliban should form a broad-based, inclusive political system. He expressed his hope that Afghanistan would develop a broad-based, inclusive political system, pursue moderate and sensible internal and international policies, fight all forms of terrorism, and live in peace with its neighbors.

Meanwhile, When asked whether China will recognize the new administration, Wang said the Chinese embassy in Afghanistan is still operational, despite Beijing's calls for an "open and inclusive" government. It can also be remembered that China pledged to remain its embassy after the full withdrawal of the U.S. in Afghanistan.

Furthermore, following the Taliban's takeover of power last month, China, along with Pakistan and Russia, has maintained its embassy in Kabul open, and its ambassador has spoken with senior Taliban leaders. In July of this year, a Taliban team led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar traveled to China and met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Related Article: Taliban Will Form New Members of Cabinet Amid the Economic Turmoil

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According to White House press secretary Jen Psaki, the US administration is not in a hurry to recognize the Taliban's newly established government.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki Released a Statement on the Taliban Interim Government

In a recently published article in The Indian Express, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said during the daily briefing that no one in the government, including the President and the national security staff, would imply that the Taliban are valued members of the international community. Psaki stressed also that this is a caretaker cabinet that includes four former Taliban militants who have been imprisoned.

She also said that the decision to recognize the so-called "Taliban government" would be dependent on the militants' behavior. She further emphasized that recognizing the Taliban is not a priority. It will all be determined by the Taliban's actions. The whole world, particularly the United States, will be watching, she added.

These events occurred shortly after the Taliban declared its new caretaker administration, putting an end to days of uncertainty and rumors of internal infighting within the organization, which allegedly delayed the unveiling of the new Afghan regime, according to a published report in Yahoo News.

Read Also: Taliban Will Form New Members of Cabinet Amid the Economic Turmoil

New Cabinet Composed of All Men

The Taliban proclaimed their new temporary administration after two decades in the wilderness, telling the world that they had reformed and were ready to be inclusive. The caretaker Cabinet, which is completely made up of men, is made up of long-time hard-line members of the militant organization, including a US-designated terrorist.

The lack of inclusiveness was noticed by a State Department spokeswoman, but Kate Clark, co-director of the Afghanistan Analysts Network, a policy research group headquartered in Kabul, said it was unsurprising, according to a published report in NBC News.

Clark said, "The Taliban never gave any hint that they wanted to include people other than themselves in the government. Anyone who thought they might make concessions or try to appease international opinion, or indeed, the opinions of other Afghans, to be honest, I think is a bit delusional."

Some of the Taliban Interim Government

Acting Prime Minister

Mohammad Hasan Akhund was the chairman of the Taliban's Rehbari Shura, or leadership council, for a long time. Before his death in 2013, Akhund was close to the Taliban's first commander, Mullah Mohammad Omar, and served as foreign minister and then deputy prime minister during the Taliban's control of Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001.

Acting Deputy Prime Minister

Abdul Ghani Baradar was the Taliban's political head and a founding member of the terrorist organization. When the group last governed Afghanistan, Baradar, who was also loyal to Omar, served as defense minister. According to a United Nations sanctions notice, he went on to become a top military commander and assisted in the leadership of assaults against coalition troops.

Acting Interior Minister

According to the FBI, the US government classified Sirajuddin Haqqani as a terrorist in March 2008, and a $10 million reward has been offered for information leading to his arrest. The head of the Haqqani network, which has been designated as a terrorist group by the United States, is sought for interrogation in connection with a January 2008 assault on a hotel in Kabul that killed six people, including one American.

Acting Foreign Minister

When the Taliban were in control, Amir Khan Muttaqi served as minister of culture and communication as well as minister of education. Later, he became a member of the Qatari peace commission and negotiating team, which conducted negotiations with the US. Muttaqi headed the Taliban's Invitation and Guidance Commission during the insurgency, which aimed to persuade government officials and others to defect to the organization.

Furthermore, the temporary administration, according to a State Department spokesman, is made up entirely of Taliban fighters or close allies, with no women and this raises the U.S. government a big concern.

Related Article: China Unveils $30 Million Aid To Taliban Interim Government, US FBI Wanted Sirajuddin Haqqani Now Serves as Interior Minister



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The use of Ivermectin as a treatment for COVID-19 has resulted in an overdose, with unauthorized use that people should dissuade. A warning has been given not to take it, but people still do despite what can happen. Desperation and fear over the virus prompt people to take chances with anything that is a shadow of a cure.

Self-medication of Ivermectin that leads to overdose

A patient was admitted to Westmead Hospital, Australia, where the individual overdosed on the drug, which many are turning to as unproven drug therapy for COVID-19, cited News Au.

Sources say that after taking the alternative covid drug, the person went to the hospital with complaints of diarrhea and vomiting as a side effect of ingesting it. Allegedly, the drug was purchased online, with other readily available dangerous cures sold, reported Sciencealert.

Fortunately, the patient was cured, which caused concern over the number of individuals ingesting the unproven drug. Moreover, a message for those with SARS-CoV-2 or confirmed to be sick with the virus must steer away from it. It gets worse than diarrhea and vomiting uncontrollably, and these are mild side effects from taking it. Though other side effects may be mild, if anyone does take it, they will experience seizures and a life-threatening coma.

Read Also: New Coronavirus Possible Cure May Target Human Cells, Not the Virus

Desperation and fear urges COVID-19 patients to take a chance

From the onset, when media exposed news of Ivermectin as a cure for SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 in lab studies, that drove interest in whether it would work as anti-virus therapy if taken in by drugs, noted the Conversation.

Moving forward, the proof it works in stopping the coronavirus is not accurate by anecdotal, so it is an inconclusive cure. This confirms the idea that self-prescription is dangerous. If some claims and testimonials work that is not a valid fact and not proven, the public should ignore them.

Several organizations have issued a warning not even to consider taking Ivermectin, which includes the World Health Organization, the US Food and Drug Administration, and the NPS Medicinewise, among a few others.

Increased demand for Ivermectin

Community pharmacist reports the demand for the COVID drug has increased, as those desperate for a cure are willing to risk their lives on an unproven treatment.

In Australia, Ivermectin is used to cure infectious parasites in people and is very used in veterinary medicine in parasitic infections. Only one prescription is allowed for human use, Schedule 4, a sought-after drug that the public can access only with approval from a licensed doctor.

Best to keep in mind that the drug is not entirely 100% reliable and has side effects to consider before using. Only a doctor has the expertise to recommend it to a patient. Any use of the drug to treat SARS-CoV-2 is only limited to a specific clinical trial with controlled conditions and chosen subjects that are continually monitored.

The bottom line is it is not safe to resort to such unproven treatments, though many are showing prescriptions for the drug Ivermectin used for COVID-19, and the public can buy more imports online.

Related Article: Anti-Parasite Drug Ivermectin May Be Effective Against COVID-19

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Sean Spicer, Donald Trump's former press secretary, and Kellyanne Conway, former president's senior adviser, are among 11 former White House officials who have been urged to quit from military service academy advisory boards or face termination. Jen Psaki, the current White House press secretary, acknowledged the request, insisting that the decision was motivated by qualifications rather than politics.

Spicer and Conway have been named to the Naval and Air Force Academies' advisory boards. According to CNN, which was the first to publish the request, other Trump-era appointments that received notice included former national security adviser HR McMaster, who is on the board of West Point, and former director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought.

Several Trump appointees refused to accept Biden's demand

Air Force Academy retired General John Keane, Michael Wynne, Meaghan Mobbs, and David Urban on the West Point board, and John Coale on the Naval Academy board, are among the other appointees who have been requested to leave. On Wednesday, Psaki told reporters that the president's goal was to guarantee that board members were competent and shared his principles.

Several members nominated by Donald Trump to military academy advisory boards are refusing to resign after the Biden Administration informed them they would be fired if they didn't. Sean Spicer was one of those fired, and he spoke out against the other 17 on his Newsmax show on Wednesday.

Spicer spoke out after another appointee, Kellyanne Conway, tweeted that Biden should resign instead, and a third board member, Russ Vought, the former director of the Office of Management and Budget, stated that he will complete his three-year term. President Joe Biden ordered 18 people to resign or be dismissed by 6 p.m., prompting charges that his administration was politicizing what should be nonpartisan advisory boards.

Six of the resigning appointees are from the Air Force Academy, six from the Military Academy, and six from the Naval Academy. The boards are made up of presidential appointees and members of Congress who are responsible for providing advice on anything from morale and discipline to the curriculum, as per Daily Mail.

Spicer stated on his show on NewsMax that the Trump nominees were removed because they wanted to incorporate leftist ideology into the curriculum, such as critical race theory, and they didn't want any resistance. On Wednesday, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki defended the action, despite accusations that the administration was risking politicizing the boards.

Read Also: Donald Trump Beats Joe Biden in 2024 Presidential Election Poll After Afghanistan Chaos, Civil Unrest Brexit Warning

Trump appointee slammed Jen Psaki's suitable to her role

Following a request from the Biden administration, some notable members of former President Donald Trump's administration have openly refused to resign from their seats on the advisory boards of military academies. Biden's choice was disappointing but understandable given the need to deflect from a news cycle that he buried in several self-inflicted crises and declining poll ratings, according to Conway.

Sean Spicer, the White House press secretary from January to July 2017, has stated that he would not quit and that he will file a lawsuit against the Biden administration over the incident. Spicer was appointed to the Naval Academy board after serving as a commander in the US Naval Reserve.

Per Newsweek, Spicer slammed White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki for her remarks regarding his suitability for the job. Meanwhile, Russell Vought, the head of Trump's Office of Management and Budget (OMB), published the letter he received on Twitter and stated that he would not resign.

Meaghan Mobbs, an Afghanistan veteran who serves on the Military Academy board at West Point, likewise declined to quit. Retired generals H.R. McMaster, Jack Keane, and Guy Swan, Washington attorney John Coale, retired colonel and Pentagon officer Douglas Macgregor, and lobbyist David Urban was among those asked to resign.

Coale expressed his displeasure with the decision, and Urban told CNN that he agreed with Meaghan Mobbs' judgment. On Wednesday, Psaki highlighted the administration's request for resignations.

Related Article: Joe Biden Receives Hostile Welcome in New Jersey; Protesters Call The President Worthless as He Visits Storm-Damaged Northeast

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A starving father was forced to sell his daughter to support the rest of his family as Afghanistan's economy continues to deteriorate. Mir Nazir, 38, said he would "prefer to die" than flog his child, but that he has had little choice since the Taliban took control of the country.

Following the crippling effects of the pandemic and an inevitable drop in international support for their newly-claimed state, the hardline group faces an uncertain economic future. As a result, Afghan residents are struggling to make ends meet, with hunger and famine looming large in their minds.

Mir Nazir, an ex-cop, told The Times of London that he is already in talks to pawn his youngest daughter as his family struggles to make ends meet after the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan's economy. After losing his job as a cop only days before the Taliban took over, Nazir said he couldn't afford rent, let alone food.

Afghans experience severe hunger

"Don't think I am any different to you," Nazir told Times writer Anthony Loyd, despite his nearly inconceivable decision to sell his daughter. His decision comes as the UN World Food Program warns that one-third of Afghans are now hungry, with two million children suffering from malnutrition, as per the NY Post.

Per MIRROR, the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan has thrown the country's economy into turmoil. Many banks are closed, and money is scarce.

The United Nations has announced that an international assistance meeting will be held in Geneva on September 13 to help avoid a looming humanitarian disaster, according to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Experts said the Taliban would struggle to avoid economic collapse without the help that has kept the nation afloat for years.

Western countries have stated that they are willing to engage with the Taliban and give humanitarian help, but that official recognition of the government and larger economic aid will be contingent on the action, not just promises, to protect human rights. And, if Afghanistan's economy continues to deteriorate, it is believed that the country could devolve into a narco-state.

The Taliban's rise in recent years has been fueled by a thriving drug trade, which has been bolstered by cash obtained through extortion, kidnappings, and claimed support from outside allies. As they seek to retake control of a country they governed from 1996 to 2001, the group's yearly income is said to have soared to as much as $1 billion per year.

Read Also: Watch: Indonesia Prison Fire Kills 41, Injures 80 in Crowded Block With More Than 3 Times Capacity

Taliban will let 200 US, allies leave Afghanistan

Despite US efforts to curtail the country's illicit drug trade, the country's narcotics sector is now estimated to account for up to 60% of the Taliban's revenue. Experts believe that as the Taliban's hold tightens and the terrorists strive to increase their revenue, the output will skyrocket.

On Thursday, it was also announced that the Taliban will let 200 US and other civilians leave Afghanistan today on chartered planes, according to a US official. The announcement came nine days after the final deadline for the United States to leave the country passed.

The removal of foreign aid, which accounted for three-quarters of government spending, has exacerbated Afghanistan's poor economic situation. Following the Taliban's takeover, the previous government's cash reserves were likewise blocked.

The World Food Program (WFP) claimed it was having difficulty getting supplies into the nation, although18.5 million people in the country relied on help. The Taliban's repressive leadership, which has revealed an all-male government of hardliners, has added to the hardships experienced by an already destitute country.

Its fighters are said to have opened fire on a demonstration and apprehended female protesters screaming "freedom." Clips also show Taliban militants with canes hitting women at a demonstration outside a university, which took place just one day after the schools reopened with segregated courses. A pregnant police officer was reportedly shot dead by the Taliban in front of her children and husband in a heinous door-to-door execution, The Sun reported.

Related Article: Taliban Stops Six Planes Full of Evacuees From Leaving Afghanistan; Americans Reportedly Onboard

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Samsung has opened up pre-orders for consumers to take advantage of the machine. This year Samsung will take the foldable mobile phone of the boutique route in the past, and "switch the runway" to focus on the mainstream mobile phone route. Samsung has noticed that the sales response of foldable mobile phones in the Taiwan market this year is quite good, and it is expected that it will reach 20%~30% smoothly before the end of the year. High-end market penetration target.

Chen Qimeng, deputy general manager of the mobile and information division of Samsung Electronics in Taiwan, pointed out that the estimated sales of Samsung\'s foldable phones in Taiwan this time are much more positive than in the past, especially the Galaxy Z Fold3 with a large screen; Many, if it were not for the limited number of pre-orders, the actual sales may not be more than that.

Compared with Galaxy Z Fold3, the pre-order performance of the sweeter Galaxy Z Flip3 is still better. According to the data from Samsung in Taiwan, the sales ratio of Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 is about 3:7. Galaxy Z Fold3 supports S Pen, successfully attracted Note users to transfer, and pre-orders were in short supply.

Chen Qimeng believes that after telecom companies start to sell Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3, the 48-month contract plan for telecom channels (some models can start at 0 yuan) will attract more consumers; it is possible that Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3\'s sales ratio will become 2:8.

Chen Qimeng also pointed out that this phenomenon has the same experience in the Galaxy S21 series; because the telecom industry has pushed for about 48 months, the mobile phone has a minimum of 0 yuan to start the plan, which makes the Galaxy S21+ sales performance bright; the customer group is mainly to buy a single phone Samsung The flagship store uses the higher-end Galaxy S21 Ultra as the main sales model.

After the official launch of the Z series this year, Taiwan\'s Samsung will also strengthen the sales force of telecommunications companies. It is estimated that telecommunications channels will account for 30% of the overall sales of the Galaxy Z Flip3 and 55% of the overall sales of the Galaxy Z Fold3.

Will Samsung\'s folding screen phones bring new challenges to the galaxy s10 plus screen replacement industry?

With the rapid updating and selling of Samsung and other brands smart phones, another industry associated with it, the mobile phone accessories industry has also grown rapidly. The so-called mobile phone accessories are what people usually call the secondary products of mobile phones, especially when the smart phones are popular nowadays, consumers have a huge demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement. The number of smartphones on the market that is increasing year by year will stimulate people\'s demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement. The upstream raw materials of the galaxy s10 plus screen replacement industry chain mainly include plastics, lithium salts, integrated circuits, positive and negative materials, connectors, etc., and the downstream are mobile phone brands, mobile phone sellers, channel sellers and operators. Oriwhiz (Shenzhen DongYe Tengfei Electronics Co., Ltd) is a professional iPhone, iPad, iMac, Mac Book, Xiaomi, Huawei, Samsung, Sony, LG, ASUS repair parts and repair tools supplier. For technical consulting or more information about galaxy s10 plus screen replacement, send an email to: info@oriwhiz.com.

Analysis of the current market demand status of the global galaxy s10 plus screen replacement industry

The global population of nearly 7 billion provides the basis for the continuous growth of the mobile phone market, and with the continuous improvement of population quality, having smart phones has become an inevitable choice for people to meet their personal communication needs. According to statistics, as of January-June 2021, global mobile phone shipments were 2.481 billion units, a year-on-year increase of 21.5%.

With the continuous advancement of technology, people have higher and higher demands for quality and enjoyment, and most consumers have begun to pay attention to the quality and function of galaxy s10 plus screen replacement. The galaxy s10 plus screen replacement follows the continuous development of mobile phone products faster and faster. According to statistics, as of January-July 2021, global shipments of galaxy s10 plus screen replacement are approximately 2.579 billion pieces.

In terms of import and export, according to statistics, the import value of Chinese galaxy s10 plus screen replacement in 2019 was US$701 million, a year-on-year decrease of 2.23%, and the export value was US$20.624 billion, a year-on-year increase of 6.84%; as of January-November 2020, the import value of Chinese galaxy s10 plus screen replacement was 5.88 Billion U.S. dollars, and the export value is 18.969 billion U.S. dollars.

Analysis of the demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement in the market segments of the mobile phone accessories industry

From the perspective of global mobile phone accessories market demand, according to statistics, as of January-March 2020, China\'s export demand for smart phone galaxy s10 plus screen replacement was 898 million, a year-on-year decrease of 7.49%. The demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement is closely related to the output of mobile phones. According to statistics, as of April-June 2020, the export demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement in China is 1.39 billion. From the perspective of market demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement, according to statistics, as of July-September 2020, the export demand for galaxy s10 plus screen replacement in China was 1.207 billion. In terms of galaxy s10 plus screen replacement shipments, according to statistics, as of 2019, the annual shipment of Chinese galaxy s10 plus screen replacement was 5.38 billion, a year-on-year increase of 3.3%.

The galaxy s10 plus screen replacement supplier

Oriwhiz (Shenzhen DongYe Tengfei Electronics Co., Ltd) is a professional iPhone, iPad, iMac, Mac Book, Xiaomi, Huawei, Samsung, Sony, LG, ASUS repair parts and repair tools supplier. Oriwhiz team aims to provide the best quality cellphone replacement parts and repair tools to all customers. We provide comprehensive solutions for cellphone, digital devices, computer repair shops with powerful and handy cellphone repair packages, repair tools, and repair machines. Browse our product category to select an item you like or contact us for wholesale and distribution issues via: info@oriwhiz.com.
The time has come. All the anticipation and excitement for the iPhone 13 and other Apple devices have come to this: an event slated on September 14 with an interesting title, "California Streaming."

Apple announced the event on Tuesday, presumably set for the debut of iPhone 13 with the new iOS 15, as well as the Apple Watch Series 7, MacRumors stated. It will be held at the Steve Jobs Theater on the Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California.

Similar to the more recent Apple events, such as the WWDC, "California Streaming" as the title connotes will be held virtually, with no in-person media attendees. It will also stream pre-taped segments featuring the new products being released.

Apple senior vice-present for marketing Greg Joswiak tweeted a short video that came with the announcement, telling people that he will see them "real soon."

Were California Streaming on September 14th. See you real soon.  #AppleEvent pic.twitter.com/OjOvJFXlHd  Greg Joswiak (@gregjoz) September 7, 2021

Read Also: iPhone 13 Leaks Tease Satellite Upgrades, New Epic Colors: Specs, Release Date and MORE

How to Watch Apple's 'California Streaming' event

People can watch the event through the Apple website, on YouTube, and on the Apple TV app. Apple on Tuesday offered the YouTube livestream ahead of the event date.

Aside from the iPhone 13 and the Apple Watch Series 7, Apple is also expected to announce a new line of less costly earbuds, the AirPods 3.

There are also new MacBook Pro and iPad models being lined up, but with Apple's multiple events this fall, these new Macs are not expected to be unveiled during the September 14 event.

What to Expect: iPhone 13, Apple Watch Series 7, AirPods 3

The iPhone 13, as what we learned from previous leaks, will be similar to the iPhone 12 but with some design alterations such as a smaller notch. Improvements are expected to the cameras, with new sensor-shift optical image stabilization and an enhanced Ultra Wide camera for the Pro models. In addition, it will come with a video version of Portrait mode and artificial intelligence-based capabilities, Tech Spot revealed.

Likewise, a speedier five-nanometer-based A15 chip is expected to run the iPhone 13, together with faster 5G technology, and for the Pro models, a 120Hz ProMotion display. An always-on display has always been rumored, and this is also a big possibility, as well as larger and more powerful batteries and bigger storage space.

As for the Apple Watch Series 7, a design overhaul is expected. This new Apple smartwatch may have a flat-edged design similar to the iPhone models and a thinner frame for wider display space, MacRumors said. The display will get closer to the front cover owing to a new lamination method, with casing sizes increased to 41 mm and 45 mm from 40mm and 44 mm. A faster S7 processor is also coming, together with a larger battery. No improvements in its health sensors are expected.

The cheaper AirPods 3 will have a design similar to the AirPods Pro and may offer silicone tips, MacRumors added. It will have shorter AirPods Pro-like stems and will have a less costly price point without Active Noise Cancellation.

Related Article: iPhone 13 Price Gets Bad News: New Apple Flagship Phone Could Be More Expensive Than iPhone 12
California distributed 600,000 direct payments for its first batch of expanded Golden State Stimulus checks last week. The total amount estimated was $354 million, which was deposited directly to registered bank accounts. The payment release schedule for other incoming payments was also revealed.

California touted its largest state tax rebate program, which aims to distribute $12 billion stimulus payments to support 66 percent of California's population. Eligibility, delivery schedule, and amount expected are explained through various internet sources.

Fourth Stimulus Check: Golden State Payments Release Schedule

According to KTLA, the first round of Golden State Payments was distributed on August 27. Payments would be delivered every 14 days thereafter, although no exact date was announced.

By estimate, the second batch could be sent by September 10 and the third batch by September 24. The cumulative payments should reach $12 billion in total.

Eligibility and amount will be determined through the 2020 tax returns information. Californians who completed and submitted their tax returns don't have to do anything except wait for their payment's delivery. Tax returns benefits could be delivered on or before October 15.

On the other hand, Californians who have not submitted their 2020 tax returns should do so now to qualify for Golden State Payments. The deadline for submission is October 15.

Also note, eligible recipients who receive their state tax refund by paper mail would have to wait significantly longer than direct deposits. Payments by mail are scheduled to come out on October 5 at the earliest. Afterwards, it will take three weeks or more to get delivered.

Read Also: iPhone 13 Release Date, Rumors, Updates: Possible Announcement Date, Specs, Price, New MagSafe Charger and More

Fourth Stimulus Check: Golden State Payments Eligibility and Amount

The amount receivable from Golden State Payments will depend on two factors: the adjusted gross income and the number of dependents claimed.

Only Californian taxpayers who earn $75,000 or less qualify for the program. Eligible recipients who claim at least one dependent get an additional $500 tax refund payment.

The California Franchise Tax Board released an online calculator and eligibility assistant to help residents monitor their status.

Fourth Stimulus Check Update: Petition for $2000 Stimulus Checks Monthly

While Californians enjoy a state exclusive benefit of stimulus checks, millions of American families continue to petition for another wave of payments from the IRS and federal government.

Stephanie Bonin, one of the many Americans who suffered financial problems during this coronavirus outbreak, petitioned through Change.org about recurring payments for the duration of the pandemic. Bonin emphasized, " Congress needs to make sure that we won't be left financially ruined for doing our part to keep the country healthy."

Approximately a year after it gets posted, her petitioned has already gained 2,862,934 signatures at the time of writing. The petition is marked as one of the "top signed on Change.org" with an end goal of three million signatures.

The US House of Representatives and US Senate have yet to acknowledge or support this online petition.



Related Article: Tax Refund Delay 2021: 2 Reasons Your Payment Is Delayed, How to Change Address If You've Moved
Disney Plus officially released the movie trailer for "Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales," scheduled to premiere on October 1. Fans can expect the Lego animated series' signature humor paired with the dark side of "Star Wars" lore. Details on the storyline and how to watch the film have also been revealed.

To the excitement of "Star Wars" and Lego fans, "Lego Star Wars Halloween Special" shares the same production team with "The Lego Star Wars Holiday Special" from 2020. According to USA Today, "Terrifying Tales" is written by David Shayne, directed by Ken Cunningham, and animated by Atomic Cartoons.

Notable cast and crew included in the film are:

Christian Slater: Ren

Dana Snyder: Graballa the Hutt

Jake Green: Poe Dameron

Matt Sloan: Darth Vader

Mary Elizabeth McGlynn: NI-L8

Raphael Alejandro: Dean

Tony Hale: Vanee

Trevor Devall: Emperor Palpatine

'Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales' Halloween Special Trailer and Storyline

"Star Wars" said the film would take place after the events of "Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker," where Poe Dameron and BB-8 make an emergency landing on the volcanic planet of Mustafar and meet Graballa the Hutt. "The crime boss has purchased Darth Vader's castle and is renovating it into the galaxy's first all-inclusive Sith-inspired luxury hotel."

To entertain their guests, the Darth Vader's servant Vanee would tell three stories. Comicbook highlighted them as:

"The Lost Boy" is a story of how young Ben Solo first meets Ren

"The Dueling Monstrosities" is a story of Darth Maul and General Grievous being reborn

"The Wookiee's Paw" is a story about what might have happened if Luke Skywalker's greatest wishes had been granted

The official trailer for the film was recently posted on Star Wars YouTube Channel. The video is embedded below.



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How to Watch 'Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales' Online

As previously mentioned, the "Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales" will premiere on the Disney Plus channel. The subscription service costs $7.99 a month or $79.99 per year. Disney Plus is available for the following devices:

Apple TV iPhones, iPads, and iPod touch models

Android phones

Android TV devices

Chrome OS, macOS, or any Windows PC

Google Chromecast

LG TV

PlayStation 4

Roku streaming devices

Samsung

Sony TVs with built-in Android

Xbox One

To subscribe to Disney Plus, interested viewers have to follow these steps:

Head to Disney Plus official website

Click on "Sign Up Now"

Provide your email address

Generate your password

Choose your subscription plan

Provide you payment information

Click on "Start Watching" to complete the process

Disney Plus is also available for mobile platforms through the App Store. Users could register to one account and login to different devices for their convenience.

Other Disney Plus Films You Can Enjoy

Besides "Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales," Disney Plus has a lot of different films to offer that should help maximize your subscription service.

Marvel's "Shang-Chi and the Legends of the Ten Rings" could stream in Disney Plus by mid-October, and "Spider-Man: No Way Home" some time in 2022.

Related Article: Burning Man 2021 Live Stream: Festival Dates, How to Watch Online With Virtual Reality
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has peered through a Small Magellanic Cloud just outside of the Milky Way 210,000 light years away from Earth and captured yet another breathtaking sight: the star nursery NGC 346.

This star cluster, NASA said, visible at the center of the Hubble image, contains dozens of hot, blue, high-mass stars, which comprise half of its kind in the entire Small Magellanic Cloud galaxy. Other smaller, compact clusters are also seen throughout the region.

Brilliant, hot, young stars shine bright in this @NASAHubble image of the Small Magellanic Cloud.  Learn more about this nearby  only 210,000 light-years away  star-forming region in space: https://t.co/LHYGHpeo8P pic.twitter.com/SIM1QbhtYh  NASA 360 (@NASA360) September 5, 2021

Dynamic Star Cluster with Intensely Active Newly Formed Stars

NGC 346 is a dynamic stellar area where hot new stars jostle amid the gas and dust surrounding them. As such it is filled with young blue stars clearly seen in Hubble's image that was released on August 30, Space.com revealed.

According to the NASA statement, the "torrent of radiation" from NGC 346's hot stars would eat into denser areas, "creating a fantasy sculpture of dust and gas." NASA describes a dark, intricately beaded edge of the ridge also seen in the NASA image in silhouette, as "particularly dramatic." Small dust globules encroach the cluster that "point back to towards the central cluster, like windsocks caught in a gale."

The radiation crashes into the dust and gas that surround it, thereby eroding the cluster and exposing more star-forming regions As that occurs, the dust and gas are funneled away along the radiation's path, adding up to create a spectacular sight for Hubble to capture. The Small Magellanic Cloud, NASA added, is one of the most "dynamic and intricately detailed star-forming regions." At the center pf the region is the NGC 346, wherein "arched, ragged filaments" with a unique ridge surrounding it.

Read Also: NASA Hubble Telescope Captures Picture of Rare Cosmic Event: It's a Lightsaber!

Hubble Captures Rare Herbig-Haro Phenomenon

Hubble also recently captured a rare cosmic phenomenon, the "Herbig-Haro" object, which is formed when a young star expels jets of material that collide with clouds of dust and gas close to it. The rare celestial phenomenon was first observed in the late 19th century by American astronomer Snerburne Wesley Burnham, Hindustan Times noted. It happens when newly formed stars eject spurts of rapidly moving ionized gas, which is so hot that its molecules and atoms lose their electrons, thus making the gas highly charged.

May the #HubbleFriday force be with you! 



But this cosmic view isnt a lightsaber  it's a Herbig-Haro object, formed when a young star ejects jets of material that collide with nearby clouds of gas and dust.



Learn more about this celestial phenomenon: https://t.co/8ZXhxm5TCg pic.twitter.com/FgBnO3IQ7a  Hubble (@NASAHubble) September 3, 2021

These streams of ionized gas then collide with the clouds of dust and gas that surround the newborn stars at speeds reaching hundreds of miles per second. These high-energy collisions would then result in the Herbig Hero object seen in the Hubble photo.

Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC 3) captures images at optical, ultraviolet, and infrared wavelengths, NASA further said in a separate statement. As such, it takes celestial images at a wavelength range similar to the range sensitive to the human eyes and a range of wavelengths that are slightly too short (ultraviolet) or too long (infrared) for the human eyes to see.

While Herbig-Haro objects expel a huge amount of light at optical wavelengths, they are also difficult to observe due to the surrounding dust and gas that absorb much of the visible light. As such, Hubble's WFC3's capability to peer through the universe at infrared wavelengths makes it possible for the space telescope to observe beyond clouds of dust and gas, including the stunning NGC 346 star cluster in the Small Magellanic Cloud, and the Herbig-Haro object.

Related Article; Hubble Telescope Pictures: NASA Observatory Snaps Rare Galaxy Phenomenon, Iconic Eagle Nebula
The newest 2021 iPad Pro is easily one of the most powerful tablets on the market to date. Its M1 chip provides incredible performance superceding any of its predecessors. Samsung is looking to take on the latest iPad with its Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra coming soon. Rumors of its specs make it a formidable competition to the iPad Pro.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Rumored Specs and Design

According to Phone Arena, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra will be positioned to be the competitor of the latest Apple iPad Pro.

It will be fueled by Samsung's forthcoming flagship chip, the Exynos 2200. With it, the device will most likely feature a new AMD GPU. According to alleged benchmark scores, the Exynos 2200 looks to be at the same level as the M1 chip that is fitted in the 2021 iPad Pro models.

It is possible that the company powers it with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 898--perhaps providing the North America and China market with the Snapdragon chip while the rest of the models get the Exynos chip. For now, though, that is all speculation, Phone Arena said.

Samsung is not holding back in giving their tablet with top-of-the-line specs, providing it with the company's best display. Regardless of the processor, it should be paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage.

The Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is rumored to have a slightly bigger body than its predecessor the Tab S7 Plus, with almost non-existent bezels. This would mean a 14.6-inch 120Hz screen. For its battery, it should be around 11,500mAh.

Samsung Tab S8 Series will have first Ultra model - like their S series and Note series and Exynos 2200 will be equipped with it !



Tab S8+ model will be equipped with Snapdragon 898 in both Wi-Fi and LTE models !



Source pic.twitter.com/l8n9aEB7g3  Fardin Niloy (@FardinNiloy3) September 6, 2021

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2021 iPad Pro Specs Make It a Very Powerful Tablet

The 2021 iPad Pro was released in May, fitted with the latest Apple M1 chipset and the Apple 8-core graphics GPU with an Octa-core CPU, GSM Arena said. With its 8 GB RAM, it has options for internal memory ranging from 128 GB to 512 GB. For its 16 GB RAM, buyers have the option for a 1TB or 2TB internal memory.

Its 12.9-inch screen is a mini-LED LCD 120Hx display with Dolby Vision. It is also optimized for the Apple Pencil. It has three pro cameras fitted with a LiDAR scanner, as well as a front-facing camera that can unlock the device using Face ID.

The M1 chip is really its piece de resistance, as it provides mind blowing performance. It supports Thunderbolt which helps it connect to other devices with ease and high performance.

Much needed gadget update..

The 2021 iPad Pro M1 11" with the magic keyboard. #Apple #ipadpro2021 pic.twitter.com/fuA1LlmT44  Abinash Mohapatra (@twistedfork88) September 4, 2021

Samsung Tab S8 Ultra vs. 2021 iPad Pro

The Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra is set to be unveiled along with the Galaxy S22 series, Phone Arena said. The model is suggested to cost around $1,320 in the South Korean market.

When purchasing a 2021 iPad Pro, the 11-inch display starts at $799 for its lowest internal storage and for the 12.9-inch display, the price starts at $1,099.

Considering its strong processor and the technology Samsung has developed for its devices' displays, it could easily be one of the best Android tablets of 2022. The iPad Pro positions itself to be just shy of a computer with its capabilities, providing flexibility and creativity for its users.

While both are very powerful pieces of technology, it is also important to factor in the designated use of the tablet--if it is for creative purposes, or if it is meant to replace or become an extension of your computer, or if it is simply as an extra gadget. It is also worth considering your other devices, if you already have other Apple devices in your ecosystem or you are integrated with Samsung's.

At the end of the day, it is how the tablet best suits the user and their lifestyle and needs.

Related Article: How to Watch Apple California Streaming Event, Get First Look at iPhone 13! [Live Stream Link]
The September child tax credit is nearing its delivery schedule. Unfortunately, millions of families have not yet received their July and August payments. IRS confirmed glitches in their system that created massive backlogs on their services.

Eligible parents should have received $600 worth of child tax credit by now. September payments are also expected on the 15th. However, payments might have been delayed instead.

Child Tax Credit 2021: IRS Glitch on Payments

WLWT5 reported details for the delay. They said IRS experienced a glitch in its systems that caused payments to be mailed instead of being directly deposited into accounts. David Wovrosh, a member of the Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati, said, "The IRS is backlog tremendously right now, I mean, they can try to call, they're usually available until about seven o'clock local time, but you're going to be on the phone for at least an hour trying to get ahold of people. "

Fortunately, there are two ways to track child tax credit payments.

Open Your Child Tax Credit Portal

The IRS launched an online portal that helps people check their eligibility, payment history and update personal information immediately.

To emphasize, users need to log in to their IRS account. They should open the "Processed Payment" section for the child tax credit information. Transactions would be labeled as "CHILDCTC." If the transaction does not reflect on your payment history, then your child tax credit must be delayed in the IRS systems.

Submit a Payment Trace

After checking through the first process, eligible filers who have not received their child tax credit payments should consider filing a payment trace. They could request the trace by downloading and submitting Form 3911.

Note that the IRS decides child tax credit eligibility based on the filer's 2019 or 2020 tax return and their number of dependents. Failing to submit these documents would automatically disqualify you from the program and forfeit the child tax credit payments.

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It is also worth mentioning that a second cause for IRS payment delays is wrong banking information or mailing addresses. IRS would have to re-route payments, creating another backlog in the process.

Recipients who might have provided the wrong bank account information could update the changes through IRS online tools. For residents who recently moved or changed address, you have to update both the IRS and USPS database to receive your payments properly

Child Tax Credit September 2021 Schedule of Payment

With two of the payments underway, Cnet reported the last four rounds of child tax credit schedules for this year.

Sept. 15

Oct. 15

Nov. 15

Dec. 15 (last payment of 2021)

IRS released half of the child tax credit budget as recurring monthly payments, with the other half receivable in 2022.

For people experiencing delays with the IRS, you could reconsider canceling the payments altogether and receive the child tax credit in one lump sum instead.



Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Check Update: $2000 Online Petition, $600 Golden State Payments Release Schedule
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"D.P." / Courtesy of Netflix



Lee Jung-min, a 29-year old office worker in Seoul, recently saw the new Netflix military series "D.P.," already having been a big fan of its original web comic, "D.P.: Dog Days."



He couldn't stop watching the six-episode series about soldiers in the D.P. unit, standing for deserter pursuit, whose job is to track down military deserters, although he has nothing to do with the military police unit.



"The series made me feel sad and contrite as the Netflix drama depicts real-life cases in the army that might have happened to me," said Lee, who completed his 18-month military duty a few years ago. "Some say the South Korean military has improved a lot, but I think it still has a long way to go."



Set in 2014, "D.P." tells the backstories of soldiers who flee from the military after constant physical and verbal violence and power abuse by superiors through two D.P. officers of Private Ahn Jun-ho (Jung Hae-in) and Corporal Han Ho-yeol (Koo Kyo-hwan).



All able-bodied South Korean men must carry out military service for about 18 months in a country that is still technically at war with North Korea as the 1950-53 Korean War ended in a truce, not a peace treaty.



So the pains and struggles of young men serving in the armed forces have often been the source of social debates and literary and cinematic interpretations for decades in the country.



The TV series "D.P.," a Netflix original series released on Aug. 27, is the latest work that sheds light on the dark side of the military where most of South Korea's twentysomethings spend nearly two precious years.



Written by Kim Bo-tong, the author of the original webtoon, who is a former D.P. soldier, the series explicitly depicts the pervasive violent culture in the South Korean military through bullying and mistreatment of soft-hearted boys by cruel senior soldiers in barracks.



And it points the finger at higher-ups, who were also victims of bullying as juniors, as they try to cover up the hazing scandals, as violent incidents could harm their chances for promotion.



"D.P." takes a different approach from many previous military-themed Korean TV series or variety shows, including "Descendants of the Sun" (2016) and "The Iron Squad" (2021), which had focused only on bright sides, like romance with soldiers or military camps that give soldiers the chance to toughen up physically.



The unprecedented real-life portrayal of the military has been winning rave responses from men in their 20s and 30s, who are skeptical about views that the Korean army has improved and abuses are a thing of the past.



They contend that the military has remained the same, citing the recent sexual harassment cases in the Air Force and in the Navy, and low quality meals and poor living conditions for soldiers, all of which have drawn media attention earlier this year.



In addition, this week local human rights group reported that a seaman killed himself after enduring months of bullying and verbal and physical abuse while serving in a Navy destroyer and his plea for help went unanswered by senior officers, including the destroyer's captain.



"I know the D.P. unit is too special to represent the entire military environment," said Goh Dong-wan, who said the two-year military service was the most difficult time in his 35 years of life. "But the absurdity and bullying in the military resonate with Korean people."



The growing voices from young people have drawn attention from politicians in the run-up to the presidential election next March.



Gyeonggi Province Gov. Lee Jae-myung, the front-running presidential candidate for the ruling Democratic Party, wrote on social media on Monday that he recently binge watched the popular Netflix drama.



"Those are the deepest-rooted practices to which people have turned blind eyes under the pretext of moral education," he said, referring to violence in the military. "The reality is always beyond our imagination. Those long-standing abuses have been continuing secretly and silently."



He then vowed to end the "history of brutality" and change the barracks culture if he is elected president.



Hong Joon-pyo from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) promised to replace the draft with a volunteer military system, reacting to the drama on Facebook.



However, the Ministry of National Defense said the military environment in 2021 has changed in many ways from the time in which "D.P." is set. In 2014, the nation was shocked by the death of a soldier in an artillery unit, who had suffered months of beating, torture and other cruel treatment by his seniors.



Those violent practices have decreased in recent years and the permission to use mobile phones among rank-and-file soldiers last year has bettered the atmosphere remarkably.



According to recent data by the defense ministry, 42 soldiers died by suicide in 2020, down sharply from 97 tallied in 2011. The number of AWOLs fell to 122 in 2018 from 643 in 2013.



"We've been making constant efforts to improve the culture in barracks," Defense Minister Suh Wook said in a parliamentary session on Wednesday. "(The Netflix series) provides some fresh momentum for the military to look for blind spots."



The ministry said as part of the military's efforts to reform its judiciary system, the D.P. soldiers will be replaced with senior military officers from next year in accordance with a recent law revision. Currently, there are some 100 conscripted D.P. soldiers in the Army unit.



Han Jun-hee, the director of the series, said it is not only a military drama but also a human story that people can easily find around them.



"The military is a microcosm of this society, which has human relationships, conflicts and victims and perpetrators," he said in a media interview last week. "I know there's some improvement in the military, but I think this series will play a role in keeping our guard up against military violence and remembering it." (Yonhap)


"The Sacrifice" / Korea Times file



A South Korean film distributor has canceled its plan to release a Chinese movie depicting the 1950-53 Korean War from the perspectives of the country amid backlash from war veterans and political conservatives.



The Korea Media Rating Board said the company, Wisdom Film, withdrew its application for an age rating for the movie, "The Sacrifice," on Wednesday. A motion picture cannot be released without the agency's classification.



Culture Minister Hwang Hee also confirmed the cancellation.



"It cannot be released because (the importer) gave up its content rating," Hwang said during a parliamentary committee session Wednesday.






A scene from the film, "The Sacrifice" / Korea Times file



By Kwak Yeon-soo



A screening of a Chinese film about the 1950-53 Korean War has been canceled in Korea after facing an enormous backlash from Koreans. The film is accused of glorifying the Chinese troops that fought against South Korea and killed numerous Koreans and U.N. soldiers.



"The Sacrifice" revolves around the Battle of Kumsong, the final battle between the Chinese People's Volunteer (CPV) Army and the U.N. Command before the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953. It depicts China's victory and the deaths of thousands of South Korean soldiers.



The movie drew media attention when the Korea Media Rating Board (KMRB) classified "The Sacrifice" as intended for audiences 15 and older last month. The film was aimed at the internet protocol TV (IPTV) platform, not for cinema release.



The KMRB came under fire for giving the controversial movie the green light to be broadcast here.






Kakao and Naver logos



Lawmakers criticize big-techs for 'greed,' vow to regulate



By Anna J. Park



Thursday was another day of free fall for Kakao and Naver with their share prices closing at 128,500 won ($109) and 399,000 won, respectively, falling 7.22 percent and 2.56 percent from the previous session.



With their shares already falling 10.06 percent and 2.5 percent, Wednesday, the two have lost a combined 19 trillion won in market capitalization in just two days, following the announcement of a government plan to strengthen financial regulations on big-tech platform companies.



The move by ruling party lawmakers to curb expansionary moves by such platform companies worked as a catalyst for the stocks' decline.




Cover image of the book "The Letters of Saint Andrew Kim Dae-geon" Courtesy of Research Foundation of Korean Church History





By Park Ji-won







Marking the 200th anniversary of the birth of Saint Andrew Kim Dae-geon (1821-46), the Research Foundation of Korean Church History under the Archdiocese of Seoul has published an English translation of "The Letters of Saint Andrew Kim Dae-geon," one of the three memorial books on his activities as an important early figure in the Catholic Church in Korea.







"He was such a strong and interesting person. He was even cool with his execution. He scolded the executioner to cut his head well. There are so many interesting and inspiring episodes in this historic letters," Rev. Cho Han-gun, director of the foundation, told The Korea Times Wednesday.







Records show that Kim, Korea's first Catholic priest, wrote up to 21 letters dating from February 1842 to August 1846 when he tried to return to Korea from Macao where he had attended a seminary. He was ordained in 1845. The English book includes 19 of the letters, as two of them are missing. He wrote most of the letters in Latin, but wrote the 21st letter in Korean and 9th letter in Chinese characters. As they were written in the middle of the 19th century, near the end of the 1392-1910 Joseon Kingdom, it gives a look into what life was like in those days.







"How could my death not be felt acutely by your bodies and souls? But before long God will send you shepherds more reliable than I. Do not be sad, but practice love, so that after serving God as a single body, after death we shall meet eternally before God in bliss, as I hope a thousand, ten thousand times. Goodbye!" he wrote at the end of the last letter.







Some letters include stories of his travels in China in a tiny boat in which he was almost killed by a large wave, and his agony as a persecuted priest under the heavily neo-Confucianist regime of Joseon which forbade outside religions as well as travel without official permission.







"We hope that the book will share the deep faith of Saint Andrew Kim Dae-geon and his pioneering spirit with the world," Cho said. "The book could also inspire many, by showing a young Korean intellectual who was able to speak and write in many languages, and through his personality and strong mentality overcome difficulties in the historical context of Korean Catholicism."







He added that Korea is the only country where Catholicism arrived through books rather than missionaries, saying Koreans taught themselves and accepted Catholicism of their own free will.







To let readers better understand the meaning of the letters, the book also includes explanations of the historic background of the Joseon Kingdom. The book is available via the foundation.


"Descending Sunrise  Mesmerizing Mesh #11" (2021) by Yang Hae-gue / Courtesy of the artist and Kukje Gallery





By Park Han-sol







Sacred Paper Cutting is a tradition that forms a significant part of "gut," or Korean shamanistic rituals, performed in regions including Taean County of South Chungcheong Province and parts of Jeju Island.







It involves folding the paper multiple times and cutting out particular patterns to create different shamanistic objects, which are then used to decorate the ritual site in order to drive out evil spirits or commemorate the deceased.







Inspired by this practice, artist Yang Hae-gue recently unveiled her latest hanji (traditional Korean paper made from the bark of paper mulberry trees) collage series, "Mesmerizing Mesh," at Kukje Gallery in Jongno District, Seoul.







A site of sitting gut, or shamanistic ritual, decorated with Sacred Paper Cutting in Taean County, South Chungcheong Province / Courtesy of Korea Cultural Heritage Foundation





A glimpse of her paper artwork was offered last year at her solo exhibition, "Haegue Yang  O2 & H2O" held at the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA), Seoul. One of the showcased pieces was her talisman, "Five Doing Un-Doing," which consisted of five banners representing the elements of water, wood, fire, earth and metal  each with the bottom edge embellished with objects made from Sacred Paper Cutting.







"Mesmerizing Mesh" is a continuation of this methodology, coupled with the artist's extensive research as well as consultation with shamans and scholars devoted to shamanistic studies across the nation.







The hanji series can be divided into two groups: pieces that feature abstract patterns designed to drive out evil spirits and others with a more figurative motif of "nukjeon" (soul sheet), a visual symbol of the soul of the deceased. In her works, paper becomes more than a means of reproducing reality, but a medium that connects the spiritual and the secular.







"Telepathy-Powered Soul Sheets Abreast  Mesmerizing Mesh #37" (2021) by Yang Hae-gue / Courtesy of the artist and Kukje Gallery





Yang's pieces reflect the work of the shaman, who transforms a seemingly trivial, everyday material like a sheet of paper into a sacred object, where the spirit is "blown into" it to console the soul and resolve the cause of its "han" (a sense of permanent, deep sorrow.) In other words, she focuses on the entangled relationship between physical matter and the soul that can only be witnessed at particular moments like a shamanistic ritual.







Such a philosophical foundation of infusing the soul and value of life into objects in Korea's Sacred Paper Cutting is shared in the paper folk art traditions of other countries  Mexico's "Papel picado," the Philippines' "Pabalat," India's "Sanjhi" and the Slavic nations' "Wycinanki," among others.







Yang's 12-piece collage series, "Mesmerizing Mesh," will be on display at Kukje Gallery's K1 hall until Sept. 12. The exhibition will then continue in the gallery's newly-built Rizzoli Studio from Sept. 15, joined by six additional works from the series.


The parents of Cho Keonoo pose with neonatology professor Kim Ai-rhan at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, Sept. 3, with their baby who was discharged from the hospital after five months of intensive care after being born as a 288-gram "preemie." Courtesy of Asan Medical Center



By Bahk Eun-ji



A premature baby weighing only 288 grams and measuring 23.5 centimeters, small enough to fit into an adult's palm, was recently discharged from hospital following 153 days of treatment. Doctors say it is a miracle that the "preemie" overcame less than a 1 percent chance of survival.



According to the department of neonatology at Asan Medical Center Seoul, the infant, named Cho Keonoo who was born after 24 weeks and six days gestation, was released from hospital in good health, Sept. 3



It is very rare anywhere in the world for a premature baby weighing less than 400 grams to survive and Keonoo was recorded as the smallest preemie to survive here.



He was the first child for the parents who were married six years ago. At the 17th week of pregnancy, doctors told them the fetus was not thriving in the mother's uterus and was unlikely to survive.



The couple visited Asan Medical Center in Seoul at the end of March with a desperate wish and the medical team led by obstetrics and gynecology professor Chung Jin-hoon attempted to save the baby.



The mother was hospitalized on April 1, but had to deliver the boy in an emergency Caesarean section three days later, and the 153-day miracle began.



The infant was born weighing only 288 grams and in the hope that he would get better and healthy, the medical staffers called him "Palpali" (882), which is the backward pronunciation of his birth weight in Korean.



The neonatal care team led by professor Kim Ai-rhan made efforts for Keonoo who was a very difficult case even for the veteran team because they could not apply the techniques usually used on ordinary premature babies because of his ultra-small size.





A medical staffer takes care of Cho Keonoo, who was born prematurely, at a neonatal intensive care unit at Asan Medical Center in Seoul, in this April 8 photo, four days after his birth. Courtesy of Asan Medical Center
Korean Ambassador to China Jang Ha-sung / Korea Times file



By Yoon Ja-young



While 97 percent of people in Beijing have received COVID-19 vaccine injections, Korean diplomats in the Chinese capital seem reluctant to receive the shots. More than half of them, including Ambassador Jang Ha-sung, have not been vaccinated yet, leading to speculation that they are shunning Chinese vaccines.



According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs data submitted to Rep. Thae Yong-ho of the main opposition People Power Party, only 35 out of 79 diplomats working at the Korean Embassy in Beijing have been vaccinated so far.



The low vaccination rate there contrasts with that of the Korean Consulate General in Hong Kong. Among 10 Korean diplomats working there, nine have been vaccinated, while the remaining one person also plans to receive the shot within this month.



As Hong Kong offers Pfizer vaccines unlike mainland China, where Sinopharm or Sinovac vaccines are available, the low vaccination rate of the Korean Embassy in Beijing is leading to speculation that diplomats there are reluctant to receive Chinese vaccines.



According to the Hankook Ilbo, the sister paper of The Korea Times, many Korean diplomats in China are reportedly delaying vaccine injections until they come to Korea on official duty. Korea's Consul General in Qingdao also told the newspaper that he plans to get vaccinated in Korea.



While it is up to each person to decide whether to get vaccinated, the Hankook Ilbo pointed out it is not advisable for diplomats to avoid vaccination, since they are expected to come in contact with a lot of people as representatives of Korea.



It also contrasts with other Korean residents in China who have no other option than to receive Chinese vaccines. Ambassador Jang, whom Cheong Wa Dae complimented as an expert on China when designating him as envoy to Beijing, did not receive a vaccine shot and had to quarantine himself for two weeks when he visited Korea for a medical checkup in July.



The Hankook Ilbo reported that one of the heads of a Korean diplomatic mission in China who received a Chinese vaccine shot told the newspaper that he trusted the Chinese vaccines despite questions raised by many over their efficiency and safety as they have already been proven.



Rep. Thae, a former North Korean diplomat who defected to South Korea in 2016, however, said it is ironic to see diplomats of the "pro-China" Moon Jae-in administration shunning Chinese vaccines.



It was reported last week that North Korea also turned down Chinese vaccines, suggesting they should be redirected to countries in greater need.






A district court on Thursday sentenced a South Korean man believed to be the nation's largest drug supplier to 10 years in prison.







The Changwon District Court in this southeastern city also ordered a forfeiture of 667 million won ($570,000) from the 26-year-old after convicting him of selling a massive amount of imported illegal drugs across the country via the Telegram messenger.







The man, also known by his Telegram ID "Vatican Kingdom," was charged with selling 640 grams of methamphetamine, 6,364 ecstasy pills, 3,560 grams of ketamine, 39 LSD blotter papers, 280 ml of synthetic cannabis and 90 grams of cannabis from April 12 to December 10 of last year.







He reportedly imported those banned substances from a global drug supplier via international courier services for online advertising and sales here through Telegram.







"Vatican Kingdom" was arrested in January this year, along with a number of accomplices involved in domestic sales and distribution networks and drug buyers.







They received deposits from buyers in virtual currency and used the so-called throwing method, in which drugs are left in a specific place.







"The defendant systematically traded drugs through SNS-based bold technique, which was difficult to detect, during a period of only eight months. He needs to take strict responsibility for his acts as drugs worth several hundreds of millions of won were distributed nationwide," said the court. (Yonhap)


Rival parties should stop political maneuvering



The ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) is stepping up its offensive against Yoon Seok-youl, a leading presidential contender of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), over allegations that he attempted to meddle in politics while serving as prosecutor general. Yet the DPK is also inviting criticism for resorting to political maneuvering to foil Yoon's presidential ambitions.



The political meddling scandal erupted last week after online news outlet Newsverse reported the allegations. The report said a prosecutor in charge of investigation intelligence at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office pushed the United Future Party (UFP), a predecessor of the PPP, to file complaints against three ruling bloc figures ahead of the April 2020 general election. The prosecutor was identified as Son Jun-sung, a close aide to Yoon.



The story alleged that Son asked Kim Woong, a former prosecutor and now a PPP lawmaker, to lodge defamation complaints against Rhyu Si-min, a prominent liberal figure of the ruling bloc. Other targeted figures were Choe Kang-wook and Hwang Hee-seok who won a National Assembly seat on the ticket of the minor liberal Open Democratic Party, a satellite party of the DPK. Son allegedly delivered the actual letters containing the complaints to Kim for him to get the UFP to file the accusations with the prosecution.



Yoon should now strive to clear up the allegations that he might have instructed Kim to punish the three figures who allegedly colluded with seven journalists to spread "fake news" about his wife who was purportedly involved in stock price manipulation. If the allegations are true, Yoon may face criminal charges for abuse of power as the prosecution chief at the time. His alleged involvement might have been aimed at intervening in the elections. Such an act, if verified, cannot and should not be tolerated as it could pose a serious threat to democracy.



But, those allegations have yet to be confirmed. Yoon, Son and Kim have all denied any involvement in the scandal. On Wednesday Kim held a news conference, but failed to give a sufficient explanation, deepening the mystery of the scandal. Yoon, for his part, strongly accused the DPK of staging a political maneuver against him based on "groundless accusations."



The PPP also denounced the DPK for waging a mudslinging campaign against Yoon in a move to force him out of the presidential race. In this situation, the DPK had better refrain from its offensive against Yoon and his party. Continuing an attack on Yoon without presenting any evidence will only undermine the DPK's credibility and stymie fair competition in the upcoming March 2022 election.



Most of all, it is urgent for the law enforcement authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the scandal to get to the bottom of it. All the parties involved should cooperate in revealing the truth. The rival parties and their presidential hopefuls should stop slandering each other and play fair by engaging in heated policy debates to offer better visions for the future.


By Donald Kirk





WASHINGTON  Millions remember exactly what they were doing when first hearing about awful events. The day John F. Kennedy was shot, Nov. 22, 1963, I'd been sleeping after an overnight shift for a paper in New York.



For some reason I had to call about paying a parking ticket. The woman who took the call was weeping. I asked her what was wrong, and she told me Kennedy had been shot. I forgot about the parking ticket while pursuing on-the-street stories for the paper.



Nearly 38 years later, I had boarded a bus near the central post office in Seoul on the night of Sept. 11, 2001, when I got a call from EBS, the Educational Broadcasting System. The voice on the line asked urgently, what did I think about what had happened?



What the hell happened, I wanted to know. Amazed by the question, the voice told me that a plane had flown into the World Trade Center in New York and what's your comment? I had no trouble conjuring a spontaneous expression of shock.



She also asked if I had any contact in New York who might comment. I had just the man  a retired journalist whom I'd known when we were reporters in Chicago. I had often visited his condo on the 58th floor of a high-rise in central Manhattan with a full view of the World Trade Center rising six miles south.



Having dispensed that information, I got to my place in time to see, live on Korean and foreign TV networks, the Trade Center's twin towers crumbling in clouds of ashes, dust and debris.



That was 20 years ago as of Saturday, Sept. 11. The date remains in infamy more than a week after the Americans withdrew their final troops from Afghanistan, forfeiting the country to the Taliban. Now we shudder to think what the Taliban will do as they exert their authority over the country's recalcitrant tribes and regions.



Each of these cataclysmic shocks raises questions of "what if"  what would have happened "if"  if they had never happened. We can speculate forever about what Kennedy might have done, what kind of president he would really have been if he had completed his first term and served another four years after that.



Having covered Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia before migrating to northeast Asia, I've often wondered if JFK  had he lived  would have pursued a course quite different from that of his successor Lyndon Johnson, who poured more than 500,000 troops into Vietnam before he decided not to run for reelection and his successor, Richard Nixon, began

withdrawing them all. Would JFK have come to terms with the communist forces from "North" Vietnam that won less than a dozen years after his death  or would he have poured in still more troops, invaded the North and made sure the U.S.-backed Saigon regime won?



The "what if" questions about what we call "9/11" are still more troubling because they have direct relevance to the present. What if the planes had not flown into the World Trade Center and then the Pentagon, killing nearly 3,000 people?



Would George W. Bush, having been president for less than a year, have never ordered troops into Afghanistan with the urgent mission of driving the Taliban out of power and destroying the strongholds of al-Qaida, whose leader Osama Bin Laden boasted of the raid's success? And if the U.S. had not plunged into Afghanistan, would Osama have ordered still more deadly attacks, leading to a much more violent struggle?



We also have to ask another hypothetical: What if the presidents after George W. Bush, that is, Barack Obama and Donald Trump and Joe Biden, had wanted to keep American troops in Afghanistan?



That's a tough one, but we do know these presidents, all so different in outlook, style, strategy and tactics, sensed the national mood and believed enough was enough. Was Biden, then, right to respond in a way that led to retreat and defeat, complete humiliation and loss of the investment already made in lives and treasure?



These are not esoteric questions. They are relevant to American allies everywhere, notably Korea  Japan too. Having fought a "forgotten war" to save South Korea from Communist invasion by the North Koreans and Chinese, might American leaders someday decide South Korea isn't worth fighting for? That's one we might be asking on the 20th anniversary of the bloodiest attack by a foreign adversary on American soil.





Donald Kirk, www (donaldkirk.com) spent as much time covering the Vietnam War as watching the confrontation on the Korean Peninsula.


By Baek Byung-yeul







Kwon Oh-kyong, a distinguished professor of electrical engineering at Hanyang University, has won the 2021 Korea Best Scientist and Engineer Award for his contribution to the development of display technology, the science ministry said Thursday.







Since 2003, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies have recognized scientists and engineers who have achieved outstanding research results. The ministry said they chose Kwon as this year's awardee for his contribution to the country's display industry.







"Kwon succeeded in developing active matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) technologies for both mobile and large-sized TV displays, contributing greatly to Korea becoming a display powerhouse," the science ministry said.







The professor developed pixel circuits and drive circuits for AMOLED displays that can be accurately controlled to very low current levels, which were considered practically impossible, enabling the mass production of AMOLEDs for mobile devices.







He also developed AMOLED pixel circuits and drive circuits that can be controlled to current levels and compensate for the degradation of OLEDs, as well as succeeded in the mass production of AMOLEDs for TVs that can be used for a long time.







Kwon continues to work on developing and commercializing the latest AMOLED technologies that can guarantee high resolution and image quality for smartphones and virtual reality devices.







He has published numerous papers in prestigious display-related journals and conferences, and holds 310 domestic patents and 418 overseas patents, including 228 registered in the United States.







To commemorate Kwon's achievement, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Korean Federation of Science and Technology Societies will hold an award ceremony on Sept. 10, granting him a presidential certificate and 300 million won ($256,265) in prize money.


SKI's battery business chief Ji Dong-sup, right, shakes hands with EcoProBM Chairman Lee Dong-chae, after EcoProBM signed a three-year deal to supply key materials for SKI's high-nickel batteries at SK headquarters, downtown Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of SKI









By Kim Yoo-chul







SK Innovation (SKI), the country's leading battery producer, is considering building its second overseas battery plant in Europe in collaboration with U.S. carmaker Ford, according to industry sources, Thursday.







Romania, Hungary and Poland are viewed as the top candidates for the SKI-Ford project, which is expected to cost around 11 trillion won, with Hungary gaining an edge over the two other eastern European countries because SKI has operations there, they said.







"SKI and Ford are set to announce a plan to establish a joint venture in Europe sometime in October, at the earliest possible date," one source said. Regarding the specifics, SK officials declined to comment.







It's very feasible that the two companies will sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the venture in Europe, because Ford has aggressively pursued its vehicle electrification strategies focusing on the United States and Europe.







The forthcoming deal will include a 50:50 joint venture to produce fuel cells for electric vehicle (EV) batteries, because SKI is one of the most valued battery partners from Ford's standpoint, one source told The Korea Times. Ford, the No. 2 U.S. automaker, has plants in Germany, Turkey and Romania, while SKI is on track to build its third battery plant in Hungary.







Last month, Ford announced it was seeking to build a battery plant in Europe.







A number of European countries, such as the U.K. and Spain, are said to have submitted proposals to attract the plant. However, given various financial, administrative benefits and competitive labor costs proposed by eastern European countries, the two companies are "very near" selecting one of the aforementioned eastern European countries as their location for the venture, said the sources.







SKI's aggressive battery expansion plan came after it settled a multi-billion-dollar lawsuit with LG Energy Solution (LGES) in the United States. SKI is supplying EV batteries to Ford and Volkswagen.







On a related note, EcoProBM, Korea's top producer of materials for use in EV batteries, signed a three-year deal with SKI under which the local parts supplier will provide key materials for SKI's high-nickel batteries. In a regulatory filing, EcoProBM said it will sell high-nickel NCM cathode materials to SKI throughout 2024.







SKI's share price fell by 1.39 percent to 248,000 won, while news of the battery materials deal with SKI boosted EcoProBM's stock, whose price surged 6.21 percent to 357,600 won, Thursday, data from Korea Exchange (KRX), showed.














A woman charges her car with Home & Service's electric charger in an apartment complex garage in Seoul on Sept. 8. Courtesy of SK Broadband





By Kim Jae-heun







Home & Service, an affiliate of one of the country's largest broadband internet access providers, SK Broadband, is starting an electric vehicle charging business.







SK Broadband revealed on Wednesday that the firm has been chosen by the Seoul Metropolitan Government as its "2021 Electric Vehicle Outlet Charger Installation and Operation Assistant."







The electric vehicle outlet-type charger is a simple charging system that can easily be set up on a wall in the parking lots of apartment complexes or office buildings.







People can use the outlet-type chargers conveniently in apartment complex garages at night, which takes up less spaces compared to installing special electric vehicle charging stations. This convenience also solves the problem of charging spot shortages.







Another advantage of using outlet-type chargers is that people use them mainly at night when the usage of electricity is comparatively cheaper than in the morning or afternoon.







As an inefficient charging infrastructure is one of the obstacles to expanding the use of electric vehicles here, SK Broadband's electric charging business, especially in apartment complexes, is expected to contribute to the popularization of electric vehicles.







Home & Service was launched in 2017 to oversee SK Broadband's high-speed internet and IPTV installations as well as its repair services. It currently has 6.2 million customers in the country and will start electric charging services in apartment complexes in Seoul starting this month.







In particular, it is expected to become one of the most competitive companies in the electric charging business, based on its stable maintenance and management system for information and communication facilities, installed in 97 percent of apartment complexes in Seoul. Home & Service employs 5,000 skilled service personnel at 150 centers established nationwide.







The SK Broadband affiliate plans to implement real-time monitoring functions around the clock and 365 days a year to strengthen its customer service.







"We will do our best to provide optimal charging services to Seoul citizens through the existing communication infrastructure installations and operation capabilities accumulated via SK Broadband. The company has been chosen as the customer's No. 1 choice in the business for 11 consecutive years, and we will take the lead in SK Group's eco-friendly management practices by contributing to the expansion of the electric vehicle ecosystem," a Home & Service representative said.


A researcher tests the safety of the KGC's ginseng at the corporation's laboratory in Seoul, Sept. 8. Courtesy of the KGC



By Kim Jae-heun



The Korea Ginseng Corporation (KGC) has increased the scope of its safety inspections to strengthen product quality.



Previously, the corporation conducted safety inspections on 293 items, which not it increased by 139 to 432. This will be applied to 9,490 ginseng fields in the country covering a total 4,290 hectares.



Since 2019, the government has been applying stricter rules on quality control of agricultural products. It also raised safety standards for ginseng products to increase the number of checklist items to 150 from 100.



As awareness of crop safety has been rising overseas, the KGC has preemptively increased the number of inspection items up to 432 to better assure customers of its product quality.



Based on its reinforced safety system, the KGC conducts safety inspections seven times over the course of eight years, from the stage of selecting cultivation sites to harvesting ginseng and manufacturing it into final products before shipping.



Safety tests begin with the soil where ginseng is planted. Ginseng can only be grown in fields that test negative for organochlorine, which the World Health Organization designates as a toxic substance.



Even during the six-year period of ginseng cultivation, the KGC continues its quality and safety management. The ginseng corporation adopts stricter standards to allow less than 30 percent of harmful ingredients in its ginseng products than what the government deems acceptable. If a plant does not pass this test, the KGC will discard it, even if it is six years old and ready to be processed into consumer products.



The KGC's safety analysis is at a global level. It is the first ginseng corporation to be recognized by the Korea Laboratory Accreditation Scheme for its capability in six fields, including quality management system, crop protection agents and heavy metals.



The safety analysis issued by the KGC has the same international effect as an official report by an overseas inspection agency.



"KGC products are trusted by consumers through our constant research and development based on strict quality control. In the future, we will continue to produce ginseng that customers can consume with confidence by further increasing safety inspection items," a KGC official said.






UNICEF Korea Committee Secretary General Lee Ki-cheol, second from left, and Asiana Airlines CEO Jung Sung-kwon, third from left, pose for a picture during the "Change for Good" ceremony, held at the airline's headquarters in Seoul, Thursday. Courtesy of Asiana Airlines





By Kim Hyun-bin







Asiana Airlines and UNICEF have collected more than 15 billion won ($12.8 million) in inflight coin donations over the last 27 years. The donations were received through the airline's "Change for good" campaign and will be used to send medical and relief supplies to children around the world.







"Coins donated by passengers to the 'Change for good' campaign to help children in need over the past 27 years have totaled 15 billion won. We would like to thank those who have contributed to the cause," Asiana Airlines said.







Asiana Airlines CEO Jung Sung-kwon and UNICEF Korea Committee Secretary General Lee Ki-cheol held a commemorative ceremony at the carrier's headquarters in Seoul, Thursday.







The campaign collected foreign coins that could not be used in the country to help children in need and marks the first social contribution activity held by the airline. The campaign kicked off in 1994 and reached 1 billion won in 1998, 5 billion won in 2010, 10 billion won in 2014 and an accumulated 15 billion won in September of this year.







"There were limitations as the coronavirus has drastically reduced the number of flights, but it is more meaningful that amid the COVID-19 period, we were able to reach 15 billion won. We would like to thank all the passengers who have contributed to the fund," Jung said. "Asiana Airlines will recover from the coronavirus pandemic and work to contribute further to society," he added.







"We have worked with Asiana Airlines for 27 years to show love to children worldwide, and this project is the longest-running corporate sponsorship project for the UNICEF Korea Committee," Lee said. "We ask for the company to continue their support to help children in need globally. We would also like to thank our employees, flight crew and donors for their support.










A Chinese businessman was sentenced on Wednesday to two years in prison after admitting that he illegally exported marine technology with uses in anti-submarine warfare from the United States for the benefit of a Chinese military university.







Shuren Qin, who founded a company that sold oceanographic instruments, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Denise Casper in Boston after admitting he illegally exported devices called hydrophones that can be used to monitor sound underwater.







Prosecutors had sought 7-1/2 years in prison for Qin, who must also pay a $20,000 fine. His guilty plea was conditional, allowing him to appeal a ruling by Casper to not suppress the evidence against him.







The marine biologist was charged in 2018 amid rising U.S. concerns about China's national security threat, a continued focus of the Biden administration. Qin, 45, had already served three months in jail after his arrest.







Defense lawyers said he founded LinkOcean Technologies Ltd in China in 2005 to provide oceanographic instruments to scientists, and immigrated to the United States with his family in 2014 as a permanent resident.







Prosecutors said Qin from 2015 to 2016 exported hydrophones to Northwestern Polytechnical University, a Chinese military research institute involved in underwater drone projects, by deceiving a U.S. supplier and without obtaining export licenses.







His lawyers say Qin was unaware of the university's intended purposes for the products, which also had civilian, scientific uses.







"These are not top-secret technologies," said Qin's lawyer, Sara Silva.







Qin, who lives in Wellesley, Massachusetts, in the Boston area pleaded guilty in April to 10 counts, including conspiring to commit export violations, visa fraud, money laundering and smuggling.







Prosecutors originally also accused Qin of exporting unmanned surface vehicles and robotic boats, and alleged he supplied $8 million in goods to Chinese government-controlled entities.







He instead only admitted to charges concerning 60 hydrophones worth $100,000. (Reuters)


In this Aug. 2018, file photo provided by the Allen Coral Atlas, a shark swims in Ailinginae Atoll in the Marshall Islands. Researchers have completed a comprehensive online map of the world's coral reefs by using more than 2 million satellite images from across the globe. AP-Yonhap



Researchers have completed a comprehensive online map of the world's coral reefs by using more than 2 million satellite images from across the globe.



The Allen Coral Atlas, named after late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, will act as a reference for reef conservation, marine planning and coral science as researchers try to save these fragile ecosystems that are being lost to climate change.



The group announced completion of the atlas Wednesday and said it is the first global, high-resolution map of its kind. It gives users the ability to see detailed information about local reefs, including different types of submarine structure like sand, rocks, seagrass and, of course, coral.





This Sept. 1 screenshot provided by the Allen Coral Atlas shows a map of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. AP-Yonhap
A man remembers the fallen victims of 9/11. UK Army and Air Force ROTC placed nearly 3,000 flags this morning in front of the administration building and had speakers read out the names of fallen victims of the terrorism attacks of September 11th, 2001 on Tuesday, September 11, 2018 in Lexington, Kentucky. Photo by Michael Clubb | Staff
At the tip of the spear: One veterans experience with the aftermath of 9/11


Administrative Assistant II About Tulsa Community College

Tulsa Community College is committed to creating equitable and inclusive work environments to support the success of the full range of our employees.



We believe that employees who feel valued and respected will create policies, programs, practices and services to effectively meet the needs and exceed the expectations of our increasingly diverse student populations.



We encourage candidates to apply who have demonstrated capacity to create inclusive work environments, to work effectively on increasingly diverse teams, and to serve the increasingly diverse college community.



We are committed to hiring and retaining a racially diverse, culturally competent staff at all levels of the organization who not only reflect the demographics of our students, but also continue to deepen their skills and competencies to serve the full range of our community.

Job Summary:

Provide general administrative and office support for the Continuing Education (CE) department. Assist customers/students with inquires and provide excellent customer/student service.

Campus: Northeast

Classification: Staff

Position Type: Full-time

Curricular:

If Faculty, Contract Length:

Job Code Number: 3994F-8-21

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate's degree or equivalent education in any field.



3 years of administrative, clerical, or office support experience.



Demonstrated records and basic bookkeeping skills.



Experience with Microsoft Office 365 and customer service software

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with software used in Higher Education.

Starting Salary Range: $13.42 - $15.19

Work Schedule:

Regular Hours:

Monday  Friday 7:30 am  4:30 pm

Posting Date: 08/31/2021

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Advertised Department: Continuing Education

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Do you have a passion for technology and helping people with their website issues? Come join the LOCALiQ family and you, too, can be a part of giving back to our community.

LOCALiQ, part of Gannett Co., Inc.,is a company that values innovation, passion and a healthy work/life balance. Our employees have a drive for success and we strive to create a thriving company culture where you'll enjoy coming to work every day! We work to help local businesses all over the nation and world reach more customers online. The company has been listed as a Best Places to Work and are a Premier Google Partner.

What we Offer: As a part of Gannett Co., Inc., the nation's largest media and marketing solutions company, we offer a dynamic, community-focused environment where individuals are rewarded for exceptional performance. We offer competitive salaries and benefits, including health care, dental and vision coverage, flexible spending account, 401(k), paid vacation time, personal and sick leave, and tuition reimbursement.



Job Summary



We are looking for a Website Services Consultant (WSC) to execute on service processes in support of our companys LOCALiQ website solution. This role will provide technical support and consultation in aid of our clients' digital marketing plan. The WSC will be responsible for providing post-launch support of our website solution. In this role, the WSC will help develop processes to support the delivery of the LOCALiQ website solution, execute upon website support requests, and provide general website support and consultation.

The WSC will also assist with high-level domain troubleshooting, basic web development tasks, and light management of our CRM solution.

Key Competencies:

Experience with HTML, CSS, and WordPress

Utilizing business processes, marketing and technology concepts

Ability to quickly master a CMS environment

Troubleshooting technical issues related to website support and configuration

Ability to multi-task and handle multiple competing priorities

Expertise in customer relationship management

Ability to communicate and work with staff across multiple departments, to solve problems

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Good analytical and systematic problem-solving skills

Incorporating constantly evolving technologies and processes into the client solution delivery process

Job Requirements:


Multiple Positions Available, Roseville, CA: Limited domestic travel, telecommute and/or occasional relocation to multiple client locations nationwide to Software Developers: (1)- Analyze, design, develop enterprise web-based application using ASP.Net, C#, MVC, .Net Core, Java Script to decommission legacy applications developed on mainframes. Create Unit test cases, validating code to satisfy all test cases and providing production and release support. Work with Cobol, JCL, IMS DB, DB2, CICS, CA7); DotNet (ASP.NET, C#, MVC, Bootstrap, .Net Core, Java Script, JQuery, Microsoft SQL Server) and Unix Shell Scripting. (2)- Analyze, design, develop implement, and continuously expand data pipelines by performing extraction, transformation, and loading activities (ETL). Work with SQL Server, Power BI Desktop, Power BI Service, Excel, Team Foundation Server, SQL Server Data Tools. Test, troubleshoot, maintain existing applications. Java Developer- Analyze, design, develop interactive user interfaces using Java, J2EE technologies, JSP, AJAX, CSS, HTML technologies for end users to collect the time-sensitive data for business needs. Work with business objects, Enterprise Java Beans, Data access objects, Servlets and Java server, AngularJS, NodeJs, JSON consuming JavaScript functions in multiplatform environment. Test, troubleshoot, maintain existing applications. Software Quality Assurance Analyst- Utilizing Rational Quality Manager platform, create test scenarios based on client requirements, mapping scenarios, test cases, widgets using Requirements Traceability Matrix (RTM). Work with Oracle SQL Developer, Oracle 11g, IBM Rational Quality Management, MS Office Suite, MS Visio, JIRA, Selenium, MyEclipse, Tortoise SVN, GIT, SOAP, REST API, Java, SQL, TCP, MQ, HTTP/s, LDAP. Reply to: Global Touchpoints, Inc., 3017 Douglas Blvd, Suite 300, Roseville, CA 95661

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Conagra Brands is looking for Production Technicians to staff its Armour plant in Ft. Madison, Iowa! The Vienna Sausage capital of the world is looking for candidates that have a strong work ethic, possess strong technical skills with a solid mechanical aptitude, capable of making equipment adjustments based on sound decisions and have the desire to work in a team-based environment. Main Responsibilities What you will do: Make the best quality food by learning, using and maintaining the highest food safety standards possible.

Follow standard operating procedures to operate various pieces of processing and packaging equipment

Work with a safety-first mindset to keep yourself and others safe.

Diagnose and troubleshoot problems with machinery and partner with maintenance staff to resolve issues

Calibrate processing and packaging systems daily to meet required specifications

Participate in start-up, change over and shut down of operating equipment Perform sanitation procedures in order to conduct periodic facility sanitation requirements Be responsible for executing all required quality processes and documentation

Participate in Continuous Improvement initiatives in order to increase platform performance

Assists in training new employees

Attend meetings and trainings as required

Perform additional related tasks as assigned Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent

Must be able to effectively use the English language, in verbal or written form

Must be able to effectively communicate and interpret work instructions and safety rules

Ability to pass criminal background check and pre-employment drug test.

Repetitive arm and hand motions during working shift

Able to stand on feet continuously during working shift

Able to lift 40 pounds consistently

Must be able to perform physical tasks for extended periods of time including: standing, walking, climbing, bending, pushing, pulling and twisting over surfaces

Willing and able to work any shift schedule, including nights and weekends

Willing and able to adhere to all safety standards and wear all necessary personal protective equipment

Willing and able to adhere to all grooming requirements necessary for a food manufacturing environment Our Benefits: We care about your total well-being and will support you with the following, subject to your location and role: Health: Medical, dental and vision insurance, company-paid life, accident and disability insurance

Wealth: great salaries, matching 401(k) and stock purchase plan

Growth: online courses, virtual and classroom development experiences

Balance: paid-time off , flexible work-schedules Our Company: Conagra Brands is one of North America's leading branded food companies. We have a rich heritage of making great food, and a team thats passionate about innovation and growth. Conagra offers choices for every occasion through iconic brands, such as Birds Eye, Marie Callender's, Banquet, Healthy Choice, Slim Jim, Reddi-wip, and Vlasic, and emerging brands, including Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP, Duke's, Earth Balance, Gardein, and Frontera. We pride ourselves on having the most impactful, energized and inclusive culture in the food industry. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com or click "APPLY" today! Conagra Brands is an equal opportunity employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, pregnancy, leave status, disability, veteran status, genetic information and/or any other characteristic or status protected by national, federal, state or local law.

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Location: 2013-Sanipac



Job Title

Fleet Shop Admin Clerk

Primary Location

Eugene, Oregon

Employee Type

Employee

Job Description

Sanipac a Waste Connections Company. Is looking for a Parts Admin Clerk to work with our team in Eugene, OR. This position is very heavy in data entry and administrative duties. You will also assist in purchasing, stocking, and delivering parts. Individual must have strong computer skills including experience with creating Excel spreadsheets. This position will include driving a company vehicle so requires a good driving record. You will also be handling heavy truck parts and batteries that weigh up to 50 lbs. Schedule is Monday - Friday, 9:30am to 6:00pm. The Hourly wage will be $16.00-19.00HR DOE. Job duties: Assist the Maintenance Manager with general clerical work, data entry and parts inventory. Answer vendor phone calls and assist with ordering as needed. Actively work with vendors, mechanics and management as needed. Perform work daily on specialized maintenance software, including the initial setup of the software. Complete special projects as assigned by the Maintenance Manager, and all other duties as assigned. Performs the initial processing of Accounts Payable and maintain the PO log. Reviews the mechanic's daily work orders for service's performed and parts that were used Prepare reports as needed and file/record the reports as required. Negotiate with vendors for better pricing and terms. Actively search for and develop stronger vendor relationships. Inventory purchasing, tracking and distribution Maintain parts room in accordance with Company policy All repair order data entry into company maintenance tracking program Warranty tracking Requirements include : Work Schedule will be Monday-Friday 9:30am-6:00pm with occasional Overtime / Weekends as needed. 2 - 4 years shop administrative experience Excellent organization and communication skills Must be detailed oriented with a high degree of accuracy Must be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while prioritizing workload Automotive/Heavy Duty parts experience a plus Loud shop environment Be able to meet aggressive deadlines and multitask Basic office clerical experience including Microsoft Word and Excel Inventory management preferred Parts or supply purchasing preferred To be considered for any of our current openings you must complete an application at www.wasteconnections.com . Application information and additional instructions can be found once you select your position of interest. We offer excellent benefits including: medical, dental, vision, flexible spending account, long term & short term disability, life insurance, 401K retirement and unlimited opportunities to "Connect with Your Future". Waste Connections is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran)


Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Partly cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 87F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 68F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.
Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 87F. Winds ENE at 10 to 15 mph..

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Over the past few months, a rising number of migrants have attempted to cross from Belarus into the EU via Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. The numbers are small  amounting to a few thousand people at most (roughly 4,000 entering Lithuania, 340 Latvia and 870 Poland). What has been the response of the EU, which presents itself as a paragon of democratic humanitarianism? It has given its member states on the Belarussian border the green light to meet the innocent victims of imperialism with barbed wire, the deployment of soldiers, imprisonment in prison camps and the construction of a wall along the border.

This disgusting hypocrisy is fully consonant with the criminal immigration policy of the EU in the Mediterranean and elsewhere. The imperialist ruling class of Europe, complicit in displacing these desperate human beings in the first place, treats its own victims as little more than a nuisance, whose presence in Europe would threaten to destabilise an already fragile political situation.

The EU has cast blame for the uptick in migration on the Belarussian dictator, Lukashenko, who it accuses of directly assisting this migration from Iraq and North Africa. It claims migrants are being flown directly to Minsk in an attempt to blackmail Brussels into ending the sanctions that the latter has imposed in an attempt to achieve regime change in Belarus. Lukashenko of course has his own interests. Undoubtedly he has taken note of how Erdogan in Turkey has made lucrative deals as the EUs border guard, and has decided to similarly leverage Belarus position.

State of emergency

In response to the uptick in migrants crossing into the country, in July Lithuania declared a state of emergency. The government has since increased its military presence on the Belarussian border and has laid barbed wire in key locations. Plans are in place to build a permanent border fence topped with razor wire by September 2022, at a cost of 152 million to the public purse.

Lithuanias Prime Minister, Ingrida Simonyte, said:

The physical barrier is vital for us to repel this hybrid attack, which the Belarus regime is undertaking against Lithuania and the EU.

The description of refugees, fleeing for their lives, as a hybrid attack speaks volumes about how the ruling class in Lithuania and the EU generally regards these innocent men, women and children as less than human. Since 10 August, the Lithuanian government has forcefully pushed migrants back into Belarus (a practice euphemistically known as refoulement). According to the interior ministry, 2,000 refugees have been denied entry in this manner.

The 4,000 refugees that have made it into Lithuania have been placed in detention centres under atrocious conditions. Reporter Ewa Wokanowska described the situation at Kazitiskes refugee centre:

123 people are being accommodated in an old school building, which has been abandoned for 20 years. It has broken windows, no hot water, no heating and widespread mold and damp. Ive seen suffering, but I give you my word, I have never seen people held in such degrading conditions. There are six families sleeping in one classroom: adults and children. Half of the people are sick with various diseases. They've been asking for a doctor for two months now. The doctor is not coming.

The images in this article are of the Kazitiskes refugee centre / Image: Ewa Wokanowska

These refugees, trapped at the EU border, are now at genuine risk of not surviving the winter.

Last year, during the protest movement against Lukashenkos regime, Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, commenting on the decision to host Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, said that in Lithuania people seeking shelter can feel safe and no one would be handed over [to Belarus]. When it suits the EUs political interests, the latter fully respects the democratic right to asylum. But no such hospitality or solidarity is extended to families fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and North Africa.

In July, Lithuania passed a law that curbs the right of appeal for rejected asylum-seekers and makes it possible to deport refugees even while appeals are under consideration. Egle Samuchovaite, from the Lithuanian Red Cross, described this law as a potential human rights violation... It enshrines the current bad situation in Lithuanias detention centers in law and leaves vulnerable people in an even more vulnerable situation.

Other planned changes to the migration system, described by Simonyte as speeding up final decisions on asylum applications even provoked criticism from the Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner, Dunja Mijatovic. She said the changes remove, in the case of an emergency situation, significant safeguards in the asylum procedure.

Of course, under the EUs bourgeois regime, human rights law is like an umbrella full of holes: useless precisely when it is actually needed. The EU apparently has no problem with militarising its borders to keep migrants out, but it would like its member states  as far as possible  to keep a paper commitment to the right to asylum, in order to save face on the world stage. Such is the hypocrisy of the EU.

To be clear, Lithuania now has some of the harshest asylum laws on the planet. Coupled with a demonstrated willingness to repel refugees, its likely that most who make it into Lithuania will be deported, irrespective of whether this puts their lives at risk.

Refugees turned back at gunpoint

Following Lithuanias example, Latvia also declared a state of emergency on 10 August. The government sent soldiers to the border and a 173km border fence, costing 30m, is now being planned. Soldiers have ordered refugees back into Belarus at gunpoint and had told them to walk tens of kilometers to official border crossings.

When questioned on these practices, the EU executive commented that:

Such measures are acceptable, as long as the fundamental right of the persons concerned to be protected against refoulement (pushback) and access to the asylum procedure are respected at all times(!)

What an eloquent expression of the perverse logic of the European bourgeoisie! One wonders what fundamental rights are worth if they do not exclude this kind of treatment. This comment amounts to support for the brutal measures used by border guards and soldiers, while totally ignoring the real situation in which refoulement is well underway and usual asylum procedures totally disregarded. After they are pushed back, many refugees find themselves trapped between borders in extremely precarious situations. Meanwhile, if they make it to an official border crossing they end up barred and ignored.

Elsewhere, the Polish government has doubled the number of troops on the border to deter migration and plans to build a 100km border fence, apparently modelled on Hungarys 2015 Serbian wall.

Poland has faced criticism for its vicious handling of refugees trapped near the village of Usnarz. Soldiers are allegedly breaking the Geneva convention by ignoring verbal declarations from refugees that they want to apply for protection in Poland.

Image: Ewa Wokanowska

People were asking the border guards for protection and the border guards were pushing them back, said Piotr Bystrianin, a refugee advocate. 32 refugees, including a child, have been stuck in the small area between borders for three weeks with no clean water or shelter. Half of them are sick and some havent eaten in days.

Given the severe humanitarian situation, the EU Court of Human Rights has asked that the Polish and Latvian authorities provide all the applicants with food, water, clothing, adequate medical care and, if possible, temporary shelter. However, they also clarified this should not be understood as requiring that Poland or Latvia let applicants enter their territories.

Calling for supposedly civilised countries to show the most basic decency towards other human beings means nothing if in the next breath you affirm their right to block the border and push refugees back.

These are precisely the practices that are trapping refugees in the first place, and people are dying as a result. In encouraging harsh border control and accepting pushbacks, the EU is fully complicit in the suffering it creates.

In any case, many EU member states simply ignore Brussels directives and the empty rulings of its human rights courts. For example, Poland and Hungarys have opted to simply ignore the EUs demands on meeting immigration quotas and to respect gay rights.

Despite this defiance, the EU is quite happy to look the other way on various issues to preserve its tenuous unity. We may get platitudes from some corners of the EU establishment against the obvious brutality of border policy and the horrific treatment of refugees, but were never going to get any real action to protect them. As their continuing policy over Libya, Morocco and Turkey make clear, this is the exact border policy the EU actually wants, but which it cannot publicly admit.

While Brussels has confirmed that we do not finance fences'', they clearly condone them on the Belarussian border. So far, they have released 36.7m to Lithuania to boost border control. Under pressure from Lithuanian PM Simonyte, who is trying to get EU support for the expensive fence project, EU commissioner Yiva Johansson has said the EU is now ready to fund extra measures to ensure a good protection system for external borders.

While the exact details of further financial support are still being finalised, Johanssons wording foreshadows that the EU may break earlier promises and begin, not just supporting fence building projects, but financing them also.

Other forms of EU support include increasing the number of Frontex (European Border and Coast Guard Agency) officers on the Belarussian border and sending Europol officers to investigate security risks. In fact, the EU is so desperate to stem migration that theyve pressured Iraqi Airlines to cease its flights from Baghdad to Minsk.

Blaming Belarus

If the EU is to be believed, the situation is purely Lukashenkos fault. He shouldnt have told refugees that the EU-Belarus border is open when it is in fact guarded by soldiers, dogs and razor wire. In the EUs eyes, whatever the plight of refugees, the borders of the union must be maintained.

It is true that Lukashenko, in supporting this migration, is using refugees as political pawns for his own ends. But he is only able to do so because the EU treats migrants like insects. It is the EU that is sending dogs and soldiers to meet them, and it is the EU who has been letting refugees drown in the Mediterranean for years, having even made it a criminal offence for ships to rescue them.

Last year's protests rocked the Belarusian regime to the core. Despite being a genuine mass movement involving hundreds of thousands of workers on the streets, right-wing liberals like Tikhanovskaya muscled their way into the leadership.

The EU has shown consistent support for Tikhanovskaya, no doubt confident that their business interests would be secured should her clique ever come to power. At the same time, the EU has adopted wide-ranging sanctions against Belarus. As is always the case, imperialist sanctions inflict indiscriminate hardship on ordinary workers, and actually strengthen Lukashenko by giving him a rallying call against EU sanctions to potentially build support around.

Given the economic links between Belarus and its neighbours, these sanctions are having unforeseen consequences in nearby EU countries. For example, in Lithuanian weve seen the near-closure of a health centre in Druskininkai.

As mentioned, a precedent has been set in the EUs dealings with Turkish President Erdogan, who has threatened to allow refugees into the EU at various points in the past. Scandalously, every time the EU has come to some sort of agreement, whereby they pay Erdogan huge sums of money to hold back refugees by force.

Erdogan has become a loyal border guard. The EU leaders, in their constant attempts to block migrants, have shown themselves to be a vile, racist gang, despite all their democratic pretensions. The EU also funds horrific detention camps in Libya and Morocco, paying huge sums to dubious Libyan militias to hold back refugees from crossing the Mediterranean by force.

It is no wonder, given this disgusting history of rotten deals, that Lukashenko might see migration as leverage to secure some sort of deal with the EU. The deal he is offering, which causes great chagrin to the EU leaders, is essentially to become the EUs eastern border guard in exchange for overturning sanctions. However, given that the EU has so much riding on the possibility of regime change in Belarus, Lukashenko may never get such a deal. Whatever the eventual outcome, refugees will continue to suffer.

The EU tries to present a progressive image, but internal freedom of movement is supplemented by brutal exclusion of imperialisms desperate victims, who arrive from further afield.

Demonising refugees

In light of recent events, the usual nationalist tropes and talking points are being wheeled out about refugees stealing jobs, or being terrorists in order to justify these anti-human policies. In Poland, Deputy Foreign Minister Marcin Przydacz told reporters: These are not refugees, they are economic migrants. Meanwhile, Latvian politician Dainis Liepins has claimed refugees should not be accepted because they include Islamic terrorists.

Image: Ewa Wokanowska

The NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent Taliban takeover will only exacerbate the situation further, with many thousands of refugees fleeing the country, potentially hoping to enter the EU through Belarus.

Lithuania, Latvia and Poland were all involved in NATOs imperialistic adventures in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their ruling classes must also bear their share of the responsibility for the flight of refugees.

Imperialist aggression in the interest of the capitalist class creates huge misery, and millions of refugees. The capitalist nation state, standing in defence of its borders, then brutally blocks and deports refugees, creating yet more suffering. And the EU, as bosses club for the European capitalist class, has shown itself to be as bad as any in this regard.

As internationalists and Marxists we must always stand on the side of the oppressed masses. It is our aim to unite workers across borders in defence of conditions, we oppose immigration controls and fight for genuine freedom of movement, something only possible through socialist revolution, an end to class exploitation, and the overturning of the capitalist nation state.
The latest title from Wellred Books, The History of Philosophy: A Marxist Perspective, is out soon. This book explains the development of philosophical thought over more than 2,000 years. It is vital reading for any revolutionary who wishes to arm themselves with clear philosophical ideas that can change the world. Read more here about why you should get your copy today.

Attend the online book launch with the author, Alan Woods, at 4pm (BST) on 26 September.

AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AT A SPECIAL PRE-ORDER PRICE UNTIL 26 SEPTEMBER.

Alan Woods book on the history of philosophy takes a unique look at the development of philosophical thinking from the Ancient Greeks, through the Renaissance and beyond, until the final emergence of dialectical materialism, the philosophical outlook of Marxism, all from an openly Marxist standpoint.

Alan is a renowned Marxist theoretician, who has been an active participant in the revolutionary movement for over 60 years. He has written extensively on many subjects, from Bolshevism: The Road to Revolution, to his response to latter-day revisionism in Reformism or Revolution. He has also written several books on specific historical processes, from the transition from the Franco dictatorship in Spain, to the national question in Ireland, to the history of the United States, and much more.

The Marxist theoretician, Alan Woods, has written a number of other books including Bolshevism: The Road to Revolution; Reformism or Revolution and many others / Image: In Defence of Marxism

When considering this latest work, one might ask the question: Is it really necessary to study philosophy to understand the world?

As society has evolved over time, science has advanced human knowledge. As that storehouse of knowledge has grown, it has become abundantly clear that the philosophical approach we adopt can either assist us in achieving greater clarity and understanding, or else it can obfuscate reality.

As Alan Woods explains, philosophy in the true sense of the word really began with the Greeks. It was an attempt to break free from the superstition and myth that had gripped the minds of primitive human beings, and to understand the world as it really is.

Ever since that epoch, philosophers have been divided into roughly two camps. On the one hand there were the materialists. The early Greek philosophers all adhered to this outlook. Materialism takes as its point of departure the view that there is a material reality independent of the human mind: a reality that can be known and analysed. Later there emerged those adhering, on the contrary, to an idealist outlook. They viewed the material world as unreal and only a product of the mind  ultimately the mind of God  which gives existence to everything else. As the book explains:

Materialism rejects the notion that mind and consciousness is something separate from matter. Thought is merely the mode of existence of the brain, which, like life itself, is only matter organised in a certain way. Mind is what we call the sum total of the activity of the brain and the nervous system. But dialectically, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. This view corresponds closely to the discoveries of science, which is gradually uncovering the workings of the brain and revealing its secrets. By contrast, idealism persists in presenting consciousness as a mystery, something that we cannot comprehend. It mystifies the physical and causal link between the thinking mind and the human body. This so-called mind-body problem arises because of the fact that mental phenomena appear to be qualitatively different from the physical bodies on which they appear to depend. Consistent materialism, however, maintains that mind and body are of one substance.

In his book, Alan Woods analyses the different currents within both the materialist and the idealist trends. The ancient Greek materialists made some amazing discoveries thanks to their philosophical approach: from the idea that all matter is made up of atoms, to the fact that the world is a globe, that our planet orbits the sun, and so on.

All this knowledge was lost and forgotten following the collapse of the ancient civilisations. In the medieval epoch, Europe made very little progress under the domination of the Catholic Church and the extreme idealism it preached.

During this period, the far more advanced ideas of the Ancient Greek materialists were preserved in the Islamic world, from whence they later re-emerged, providing the ideas which contributed to a rebirth in Europe. With the Renaissance and later the Enlightenment, there was a break with mysticism, and a return to a genuinely scientific outlook, which allowed for immense progress in science and technique.

This book also explains the development of the dialectical approach to reality. Dialectics explains that the world is in constant change and movement. This was an approach already present among some of the Ancient Greek philosophers, later re-emerging in the works of Hegel. It would become a key element in the development of Marxism.

But as Alan Woods explains, the problem with Hegel was his idealist approach. For him, dialectics appeared as a characteristic of human thought. Finally, it was with Marx and Engels that the conclusion that dialectical development is a fundamental characteristic of matter, was reached. Dialectics was thus combined with materialism  which up until then had a mechanical, static, approach to understanding reality  producing what became known as dialectical materialism: the philosophy of Marxism.

The chapters of this book were originally intended to be part of another book, Reason in Revolt: Marxist Philosophy and Modern Science, written by Alan Woods and Ted Grant and published in 1995. It was decided, however, that this would make the book excessively long, the subject of the history of philosophy meriting a separate text.

After a long wait, we are now publishing those chapters as a book in its own right. Through its pages are explained how over 2,000 years of human thinking of various philosophical schools finally produced the Marxist outlook. Marx and Engels took the best of the works of past generations of great thinkers, producing a method that allows Marxists to look beyond the immediate reality in front of us. It is a method that allows us to look at how things were, how they have become and how they are most likely to develop in the future.

Marxists do not study history as a series of isolated events: as lists of kings and popes, of wars and revolutions, disconnected from each other. Rather, we look at each development as part of a long historical process. This process began with early, primitive humans, and their struggle for survival. It proceeded through the emergence of class societies. Passing from one form to the other, in the course of the development of class society, humanity has developed an increasingly detailed knowledge of the world in which we live. Finally, this long historical process has created the material prerequisites for ending class society itself. The potential now exists to unleash the flowering of a new society, where humans will achieve true freedom, where no human will exploit another, and no human will oppress another.

In this text, Alan Woods analyses over 2,000 years of the history of philosophical thinking, from the brilliant insights of the philosophers of Ancient Greece, down to Karl Marx, who drew upon the best of millennia of philosophical ideas / Image: International Institute of Social History

Down to the time of Marx and Engels, the history of philosophy represented a genuine seeking after a scientific, rational approach to the development of human understanding. Since Marx and Engels day, bourgeois philosophy has dedicated all its energies to denying the final conclusions of thousands of years of human thought. This inevitably entails a denial of rational thought and its replacement with unscientific thought. Its task is to deny the very idea that human society moves forward in a progressive manner.

That is how one explains the emergence of postmodernism. Adherents of this so-called philosophy try to present it as something new. In reality, it merely contains a rehash of all the old ideas of the idealist camp. A genuinely scientific approach to the development of society inevitably leads to the conclusion that capitalism is not the final goal of history but merely one phase which must give way to a superior form, socialism. For this reason, all latter-day bourgeois philosophy is dedicated to denying rational thinking. It is this that explains the growth of the school of postmodernism, with all its variants such as poststructuralism, postcolonialism, queer theory, and a whole host of so-called theories based on identity politics.

Desperate to disguise its real content and to appear original  which it is not  it uses all kinds of incomprehensible, convoluted, and intentionally ambiguous language. In reality, postmodernism is a bourgeois philosophy that reflects the dead-end of the capitalist system itself. In seeking to justify its own existence, the bourgeoisie of today is forced to abandon the philosophical outlook of its own revolutionary past, turning against the best traditions of the Enlightenment.

In the hands of the modern bourgeoisie, philosophy cannot answer any of the profound questions facing humanity, and neither is that its intention. Its sole purpose is to entangle, confuse and demoralise the thinking youth in order to deter them from taking the road of revolution. Dialectical materialism, on the contrary, provides a method that allows us to achieve clarity, drawing out the connections between events and facts in order that we might intervene in history decisively to alter its course and liberate humanity. Unlike the bourgeois professors whose incomprehensible language is deliberately designed to daunt the reader, Alan Woods writes in a clear, accessible style to theoretically arm revolutionaries with these marvelous ideas. The resulting book is a sharp weapon for cutting through postmodern, academic rubbish  a weapon with which every class-conscious worker and young person should arm themselves.

Attend the online book launch with the author, Alan Woods, at 4pm (BST) on 26 September.


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The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business (www.CanadaAfrica.ca) and APO Group, the leading Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, today further announced details of the largest ever conference to promote business, trade and investment between Canada and Africa in the organizations 27-year history.

The Accelerating Africa 2021 conference (https://bit.ly/3gsTfVA) will take place from 26 to 28 October 2021, with a programme of online and in-person events that bring together ministers, CEOs, entrepreneurs, thought leaders and policy makers from Canada and all over Africa.

With a primary focus on Canadas role in Africas economic restart after COVID-19, the conference will address challenges and advance opportunities for greater trade and investment between Canada and the African continent.

APO Group is the Chambers Public Relations Strategic partner, and it joins Ivanhoe Mines Ltd, the lead sponsor of the Accelerating Africa 2021 conference, which is open to all for complimentary virtual attendance  thanks to the organizations generous supporters (register here https://bit.ly/3jPdaAa)

The Chamber joined forces with APO Group earlier this year, and the two organizations have worked together on major engagements in Canada and Africa, following the visit of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to the African Union, the African Continental Free Trade Agreement leadership, and several African heads of state and cabinet ministers.

Our existing work with APO Group has seen millions of dollars in media exposure across the African continent, said Sebastian Spio-Garbrah, Chair of the Board of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business. We believe APO Group will be key to making a success of the biggest conference in our 27-year history, and our partnership will continue to play an important strategic role in Canada-Africa trade and investment.

APO Group has a peerless reputation within African media and Public Relations. Through its game-changing partnerships with globally-renowned organizations like Bloomberg and Getty Images, APO Group is able to deliver uniquely African stories to new international audiences, demonstrating to the world that Africa is open for business.

We see it as our responsibility to ensure Africa gets the international recognition it deserves, said APO Group Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard ( www.Pompigne-Mognard.com). The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business is uniquely placed to drive trade and investment opportunities by bringing together all the major stakeholders across both markets. Ultimately, we share the same goal, which is to challenge negative perceptions about Africa and remove barriers to investment. Events like Accelerating Africa 2021 provide the perfect forum for facilitating new conversations and relationships that promote economic success all over Africa.
Council President Julio Guridy said the vote Wednesday came after council received an opinion from its solicitor that it was not legally bound by a memorandum that it would not approve any Cabinet-level appointments until the next mayor takes office. After OConnell formally nominated Roca last month, at least three members of council said they would not budge on that position, taken after OConnell nominated Community and Economic Director Leonard Lightner as managing director.
A woman who was a passenger in the car that was hit was taken to the hospital and died, he said. He didnt know what kind of car she was in, or the condition of the driver in her car.
I do say there are people in the world that decided to do something horrible to us, he said. But our country came together, if only for a moment. It seemed like there was a togetherness, a unity in our country, and heroes not only in New York City but all around the world and around the U.S.
There are people who are dying like [every] 40 seconds, every day, because they feel that they are alone, and they feel like they cant talk about their mental health, they said. And I just hope that, with my run, Ill hopefully break down [some of that] stigma, even if its just a little  even if its just in my community  just so that we dont have that happen so often.
Two people were taken by ambulance to a hospital after the 10:14 p.m. crash at Route 873 and Grove Street, dispatchers said. The vehicle snapped a pole in half, causing downed wires.
More than five years after the horrific rape and murder of 14-year-old foster child Grace Packer, two state lawmakers have introduced a package of bills in her name intended to plug holes in the child protection system.
The school bus driver shortage has been going on for many years with no signs of improvement, he said. We need to look at why thats happening and identify steps the state can take to address the problem.
The community also now has a Spanish language radio station (La Mega 101.7FM), which ranks in the top 10 in ratings among all local radio stations and No. 1 among Spanish Radio with Latinos. (Full disclosure: I am the owner of La Mega and the host of its Morning Show.) The stations regular programming features daily discussions of local politics, the importance of voting and publicly supporting Latino candidates. La Mega has had a measurable impact on the level of engagement by Latino voters.
The four days of painful experiences my wife had to go through in Halifax, being the sole American Muslim wearing the veil (hijab) in the crowd of thousands at a convention center, were very scary. And I will never forget the pain and agony my young children, ages 6 to 12, went through on four sleepless nights without their mother.
Some of the U.S. citizens in Afghanistan are naturalized Americans. They came to the U.S. in the last 20 years, became citizens, and some returned to their homeland to live permanently. Some decided to remain there despite the recent takeover by the Taliban. Some would like to return to the U.S. but discovered they could not bring their extended families with them.
A model walks the runway during a gala fashion show at the Indigenous Art Exposure event at the Zootown Arts Community Center on Sept. 4. Yolanda, one of the designers at the gala, showcased several lines of work from the series she created for the "MMIW to her Live" series aimed to spread awareness in the around the state.
Trigger Warning: this story contains descriptions of suicide and guns.

Halston Witt is a gun owner.

The freshman biology major from South Dakota says her desire to carry a gun for self-protection was sparked by an incident that occurred at her home when she was young. A man pounded on the door over and over, demanding entry, until finally giving up and leaving Witt and her mother alone.

Witt grew up around firearms and hunting. She recalled a Christmas when her dad gave her a .22-gauge shotgun with her name engraved on the side. She was in elementary school.

It was kind of jarring, she said. My cousin got an iPod.

Now, nearly a decade later, Witt hasnt turned away from guns. She wanted to bring her pistol, purchased legally by her father, to campus this year, but left it at home in Watertown, South Dakota. She did not know the rules in Montana, and didnt feel comfortable bringing her gun into the dorms.

As Witt started her first day at the University of Montana, she was caught between two realities involving guns on campus: the current policy, which requires her to check her gun into a police locker, and a new law being challenged in court that would have meant she could carry it anywhere on campus, out in the open or concealed.

For UM administration and the Montana University System, the issue of guns on campus has become more than a theoretical debate. House Bill 102, one of the most unrestrictive gun laws in the country, passed in the Montana legislature this spring.

The bill would allow anyone to carry a gun on campus, openly or concealed. It would overrule UMs current policy  one that has been on the books since 1987 and requires students who want to bring guns onto campus to check them into a gun locker. The policy says nobody except law enforcement may carry on campus.

In May, the Board of Regents was preparing to implement HB 102 by its original June 1 deadline. But after two meetings seeking public comment  most of which urged the board to fight against the legislation  the regents sued the legislature on May 19, arguing it had overstepped its bounds.

On May 28, three days before the bill would have become law, a Lewis and Clark County judge temporarily barred it from going into effect. Ten days later, on June 7, the judge indefinitely extended the order to prohibit enactment of HB 102 until the lawsuit could be heard in court.

Because Montanas constitution explicitly gives the Board of Regents authority over affairs on campus, the legal battle will determine more than just whether guns should be on campus. Instead, a larger question is at stake: Who has the right to control the Montana University System?

A long-standing policy

For years, gun advocates in Montana have sought to loosen restrictions. The political climate in 2021 gave them the window of opportunity they were looking for: a majority Republican legislature, with a Republican governor at the helm for the first time in 16 years.

At a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing in January, Rep. Seth Berglee, a Republican state representative from Joliet, Montana, introduced HB 102, legislation he has been trying to pass for eight years.

Berglees bill changed Montanas concealed carry laws to allow permitless carry anywhere one can open carry, rather than obtaining a concealed carry permit from a county sheriffs office. The bill also allows concealed guns in banks and bars, which usually only allow firearms on their premises when people are open carrying.

Most notably for the states universities, HB 102 stipulated that the Montana University System couldnt ban guns on campus, and in setting gun policy, it can only follow the guidelines from the legislature. The bill would also allow permitless concealed carry on campus.

Berglee cited several examples of states that allowed guns at universities.

Campus carry exists in more than a dozen states, but only Utah matches HB 102 in explicitly requiring guns be allowed on every college campus. That Utah legislation, and most other gun-friendly campuses, still mandate that gun carriers have a concealed carry permit, though  differing from HB 102s proposed permitless concealed carry.

If I can boil it down, anyone can physically bring a gun into a space, Rep. Berglee said in a recent interview with the Kaimin. I should legally be able to bring one, too.

Under HB 102, MUS could mandate holstering guns on campus, restrict firearms at controlled events and allow students in residence halls to object to their roommate bringing their gun.

At the January hearing, the National Rifle Association, along with interest groups from around the country, testified in favor of HB 102. But most of the hearing consisted of opposition speeches. Many were from students and educators. Some, like Montana State University student Daisy Khoury, had seen the dark side of guns.

When I was 13 years old, one of my best friends committed suicide right in front of me. He shot himself in the head with a handgun, Khoury said. Guns have no place on a college campus, or near any school.

Despite almost an hour of opposing testimony, the bill passed the Senate Judiciary committee on Jan. 20. And after it ran through the state House and Senate on party lines, Gov. Greg Gianforte signed HB 102 into law before the legislative session was even halfway over.

Caught in court

Because of the injunction, HB 102 wont be implemented until it is worked out in court, a process that could take years, according to UM law professor Anthony Johnstone. So the bill changes nothing for students while it remains embroiled in court.

In this case, the Board of Regents really felt like we needed some clarity on what roles the board has and what the legislative role is, said Helen Thigpen, executive director of government relations and public affairs for the Commissioner of Higher Education. This suit is to find where that line is, which is sometimes described as murky.

The murky line has been tested before. In 1975, the Montana Supreme Court heard a case called Judge v. Board of Regents, which centered around a bill allowing the legislature to regulate specific budgets of college departments through a committee. The court sided with the university system, strengthening its precedent of college campus control.

The Montana Federation of Public Employees has also brought a suit against HB 102 in a Bozeman court.

Either court can rule the law is unconstitutional or not, and that would be that, Johnstone said. But it is likely either verdict will be appealed to the Montana Supreme Court. It could be in the process for a long time.

Guns on campus today

There have always been guns in and around UM, as firearms are often considered part of the states culture. Compared to other states, Montana has the highest rate of gun ownership per capita, at 66.3% of people, according to a 2020 report from the Rand Corporation. The national average is 48%.

With the bill tied up in court, MUS policy still rules. Any student who wishes to bring a gun on campus must store it in a campus gun locker, or keep it unloaded in their locked car.

The number of students who keep their guns in UM police lockers varies, but it is not more than a couple dozen, according to Brad Giffin, chief of UMPD. The number also changes often, as any student can take their gun out of the locker.

But Giffin also said many students are not aware of UMPDs gun locker, and often break the rules.

People who dont want to store their guns are possibly bringing them on campus, he said. We recommend people check the gun in, but they are also allowed to store them in their cars as long as it is unloaded, secured and the car is locked.

This may be the answer for students like Witt, who feels protected having a gun.

As an 18-year-old woman who isnt large, I use it for self protection, Witt said. When I stop alone in Baker, Montana, while driving home, I feel more comfortable being armed.

Witt does want to eventually bring her pistol to campus. She could leave it in her car, or UMs gun locker. Before orientation on campus, Witt didnt know either was an option.

While the amount of students who do not follow university gun laws in Montana is uncountable, some say they exist. State representative Braxton Mitchell, a 20-year-old Republican from Columbia Falls, published an opinion piece in the Missoulian June 10 stating he knows students who bring their guns on campus because they feel an obligation to keep others safe.

I can name countless friends in our university system who currently conceal carry on campus and have firearms in their dorms, which is currently not allowed, he wrote. These students are responsible and have the background and knowledge to safely own and equip firearms.

UM strategic communications director Dave Kuntz said he has not heard about cases of students violating gun policy, and little is known about students with firearms outside of UMs campus.

Should HB 102 become campus policy, Giffin said, a top concern for UMPD is accidental discharge and easy access to guns.

Long-lasting trauma

Roughly 200 people die from guns in Montana each year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In 2019, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services reported that 60% of the states suicides were by gun, and 72% of youth suicides were done with firearms.

Tracee Anderson, interim director of the Curry Health Centers counseling program, said the easy accessibility to firearms that could come if HB 102 becomes campus policy is a concern for her office as well.

Our fear is that easy accessibility to firearms could mean more suicide attempts, Anderson said. Look at the experience students have when they are in a new space. Theres trepidation, anxiety, uncertainty  typical challenges to coming into a new environment. But we dont know what will happen.

The last gun death at UM reported by the Kaimin was student Kole Swartz, who died in 2015 after accidentally shooting himself at a home in Clinton, Montana.

Khoury, the MSU student who testified against the bill, has personal experience losing a friend to suicide. It still affects her today.

Her parents were there for her. She had a therapist. But Khoury explained that the process of coping with the loss of her friend was deeply personal.

Khoury struggled. She said in high school she abused drugs, was hospitalized and tried to kill herself.

By the end of high school, she did not have a plan for college or anything else.

But Khoury said she has grown since her friends passing. She decided to apply to MSU on a whim, and is studying to be a forensic psychologist.

When she heard about HB 102 in January, she reached out to her dean and MSU president Waded Cruzado. She talked to representatives in MSUs student government, the Associated Students of Montana State University, who set her up to talk at the hearing.

She raised concerns HB 102 would make students with gun trauma feel unsafe at colleges and threaten their mental health.

The bill just instilled fear in me, Khoury said. Some people feel safer being armed, but those like me feel safer knowing there is not a gun in my area.

She followed the bill as it progressed and landed on Gianfortes desk. But like many other students, she did not know about the lawsuit, or that it had stopped HB 102 from taking effect.

Her first week of school was filled with thoughts of which passing students backpack could contain a firearm.

Witt, the freshman biology major at UM, is a stark contrast to Khoury. She said on her first day walking to class she felt comfortable at UM. She wasnt carrying her gun, but UMs campus seemed safe. Besides, she carries mace and a knife.
Isabel Kennedy, Brendon Galbreath's sister, holds a sign outside Missoula City Hall demanding transparency and accountability from Missoula Police regarding her brother's death during a rally in downtown Missoula on Aug. 20 in honor and remembrance of young Galbreath. Galbreath lost his life back in early August after an incident with Missoula Police that started as a traffic stop and ended in an officer involved shooting.
For UM administration and the Montana University System, the issue of guns on campus has become more than a theoretical debate. House Bill 102, one of the most unrestrictive gun laws in the country, passed in the Montana legislature this spring.
Regional

BJP and CPI (M) activists clash in Tripura

Vehicles in flames after clashes between BJP supporters and CPI(M) activists, in Agartala, on Wednesday. (PTI)

AGARTALA, SEPT 8 (PTI) | Publish Date: 9/8/2021 1:23:07 PM IST

Violent clashes erupted between activists of the ruling BJP and the principal opposition, CPI (M), in different parts of Tripura on Wednesday.

Trouble started at Udaipur town in Gomati district of Tripura after CPI(M)s youth wing Democratic Youth Federation of India took out a procession and a few activists from the rally allegedly attacked a ruling BJP activist who was passing by, injuring him seriously.

Police said a group of BJP activists, who were camping nearby, retaliated by attacking the DYFI procession. Police said two to three persons were injured but their political affiliation was not known.

According to sources, CPI (M) party offices in Agartala, Bishalgarh and Kathalia, were also vandalized and set on fire, after the Udaipur clash.

The clashes follow an earlier round of violence on Monday between workers of the two parties, when former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar was allegedly prevented from proceeding to Dhanpur.

Police said the injured BJP activist from Udaipur, who was in a critical condition, was shifted to G.B Pant hospital in Agartala.

A large contingent of police had to be deployed to disperse the mob and avoid further rioting. Officers also said a group of unidentified miscreants also vandalized CPI (M)s Udaipur party office, while a vehicle belonging to the former Left Front Minister Ratan Bhowmick was set ablaze.

Agriculture minister Pranajit Singha Roy rushed to the spot soon after the clash and took stock of the situation.

Later speaking to the media, the minister said that the youth wing of the CPI (M) had brought out a rally without seeking prior permission from police.

When police tried to stop the CPI (M) rally, they indulged in violence, injuring several people. A BJP activist- Mofiz Miah, who was passing by, was attacked and critically injured. Besides, a hotel was vandalized and some houses were ransacked, Singha Roy told the media.

He said the government would take legal action against those involved in the violence.

Meanwhile, Union Minister of State Pratima Bhowmik led a protest march at Dhanpur in Sonamura sub-division protesting the Mondays violence.

Later in the evening, BJP Sadar district unit also held a protest rally in the capital city- Agartala. The CPI(M) state party office at Melarmath was set on fire and a newspaper office near the main road was also vandalized.
International

Fire kills 41 inmates, 80 hurt at crowded Indonesian prison

Debris inside a charred prison cell after a fire at Tangerang Prison in Tangerang, Indonesia, on Wednesday. (AP)

JAKARTA, SEP 8 (AP) | Publish Date: 9/8/2021 1:40:48 PM IST

A massive fire raged through an overcrowded prison near Indonesias capital early Wednesday, killing at least 41 inmates, two of them foreigners serving drug sentences, and injuring 80 others.

Televised footage showed firefighters battling to extinguish orange flames while black smoke billowed from the compound. Indonesian Red Cross officials evacuated the victims to ambulances and dozens of bodies in orange bags were laid in a room of Tangerang prison on the outskirts of Jakarta.

Most of the 41 killed were drug convicts, including two men from South Africa and Portugal, but a terrorism convict and a murder were also killed, Indonesias Justice and Human Rights minister Yasona Laoly told reporters.

He expressed his deep condolences for the family of the victims and pledged to provide the best treatment for injured victims.

This is a tragedy that concerns all of us, Laoly said. We are working closely with all relevant parties to investigate the causes of the fire.

The preliminary investigation into the cause of the fire that started around 1:45 am pointed to a short circuit in one of 19 cells in prison Block C2, Jakarta Police Chief Fadil Imran said. Block C2 was stuffed full with 122 convicts.

After the fire was extinguished, hundreds of police and soldiers were deployed around the prison to prevent prisoners from escaping, Imran told reporters near the scene.

The situation is now under control, Imran said, adding that at least 41 inmates were killed and 80 were injured.

Eight are hospitalised with severe burns and nine with light injuries are being treated at a prison clinic, the Justice and Human Rights ministry said. Another 64, many suffering smoke inhalation, were evacuated to a mosque in the compound.

Tangerang prison was designed to house 1,225 inmates but has more than 2,000, said Rika Aprianti, spokesperson for the corrections department at the Justice Ministry.

She said 15 prison officers guarding the cell block were unhurt.

Laoly vowed to make efforts to prevent a similar tragedy, including to fix electricity problems at 477 prisons across the vast archipelago nation.

Jailbreaks and riots that led to fire are common in Indonesia, where overcrowding has become a problem in prisons that are struggling with poor funding and large numbers of people arrested in a war on illegal drugs.

In April last year, inmates angered by restrictions on family visits and the early release of 115 other inmates to curb the spread of the coronavirus set fire to a prison on Sulawesi island. Earlier in 2020, inmates set fire to a prison in Banda Aceh during a riot.

No deaths were reported from those fires.
Business

India and Portugal to sign pact on employment

New Delhi, Sep 8 (PTI) | Publish Date: 9/8/2021 1:35:28 PM IST

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the signing of an agreement between India and Portugal on the recruitment of Indian citizens to work in that European country. The agreement would set an institutional mechanism for partnership and cooperation between India and Portugal on sending and accepting Indian workers, an official statement said.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the signing of an agreement on the recruitment of Indian citizens to work in the Portuguese Republic between the government of India and the government of Portugal, it said.

Under this agreement, a joint committee will be set up to follow up the implementation of the same.

Signing this agreement with Portugal will add a new destination for Indian migrant workers in an EU member nation, especially in the context of many Indian workers who have returned to India following the COVID-19 pandemic, the statement said, adding that it will provide new opportunities for skilled Indian workers and professionals. With the conclusion of this agreement, Portugal and India will have a formal arrangement for recruitment of Indian workers, the statement said.

It said Indian workers would have enhanced job opportunities to work in Portugal and the government-to-government mechanism proposed in the agreement will ensure that the movement of workers happens smoothly with the maximum support from both sides.
International

Pakistan set to host meeting of Afghanistans neighbours

ISLAMABAD, SEP 8 (PTI) | Publish Date: 9/8/2021 1:44:36 PM IST

Pakistan will host a virtual meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistans neighbours on Wednesday to discuss the latest situation in the war-torn country.

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will chair the meeting to be attended by China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, according to Foreign Office.

The Taliban seized control of war-torn Afghanistan in mid-August, ousting the previous elected leadership which was backed by the West. The Foreign Ministers meeting on the Afghan issue is taking place at the invitation of Pakistan.

The meeting will review the evolving situation in Afghanistan to address common challenges and realise emerging opportunities to ensure regional stability and prosperity, the FO said.

The moot is expected to provide an opportunity to neighbours of Afghanistan to work together for a shared objective of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, which is essential to forge strong economic linkages and realize connectivity agenda. The meeting will build upon the discussions, held at the Special Representatives/Envoys level, on September 5.

The neighbours of Afghanistan have a vital stake in the stability of the country. A peaceful, stable, united, sovereign and prosperous Afghanistan will contribute towards transit trade, people-to-people exchanges and security in the region.

The meeting is being held a day after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. The meeting may also discuss the issue of recognising the new government.
International

Turkey, Egypt agree to continue normalisation talks

ANKARA, SEP 9 (IANS) | Publish Date: 9/9/2021 2:28:38 PM IST

Turkey and Egypt finalised the second round of talks for reconciliation of bilateral ties and agreed to continue political consultations.

The two sides agreed to continue these consultations, confirming their desire to make progress in areas under discussion and the need for further steps to facilitate normalization of their relations, a statement by the Turkish Foreign Ministry said after two-day talks in the Turkish capital of Ankara.

The second round of consultations was held between the delegations from the two sides, who addressed bilateral issues as well as a number of regional topics, such as the situations in Libya, Syria, Palestine and the Eastern Mediterranean, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying.

On May 5, the two countries held the first round of normalisation talks in the Egyptian capital of Cairo, the first direct high-level meeting held by the two sides since 2013.

The relations between Ankara and Cairo deteriorated in 2013 following the ouster of former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, who was supported by Turkey.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-08 19:56:38|Editor: huaxia

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Syrian soldiers are seen in the Daraa al-Balad area in the southern province of Daraa, Syria, on Sept. 8, 2021. The Syrian army on Wednesday hoisted the Syrian flag in the Daraa al-Balad area in the southern province of Daraa, following a Russian-mediated agreement with the armed rebels in that area. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army on Wednesday hoisted the Syrian flag in the Daraa al-Balad area in the southern province of Daraa, following a Russian-mediated agreement with the armed rebels in that area.

State news agency SANA said the army hoisted the Syrian flag after scores of rebels laid down their weapons and surrendered themselves while others chose to be transported to rebel-held areas in northern Syria.

Over the past couple of weeks, the Russians have put in a lot of effort to make success a deal for defusing the months-long tension in Daraa.

The deal mainly allows rebels who want to reconcile with the government to lay down their weapons in exchange for a pardon while others who reject the government are allowed safe access to rebel-held areas in northern Syria.

The deal was faced with many snags, as the rebels were demanding access to Jordan or Turkey, as the situation in rebel-held areas in northern Syria wasn't satisfactory for them.

However, the deal seems like it worked out finally.

SANA said the army is deploying in Daraa al-Balad amid preparations for combing the area in search of weapons and tunnels left by the departed rebels.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) recently placed the number of internally displaced people in Daraa province as a result of the recent tension at 38,600, including almost 15,000 women and over 20,400 children.

The Syrian army entered Daraa in 2018 after the rebels there were dislodged to the rebel-held areas in the northwestern province of Idlib. However, the tension has continued in Daraa with attacks taking place occasionally. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 00:38:24|Editor: huaxia

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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attends the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries via video link in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 8, 2021. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)

BEIJING, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday attended the first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries in Beijing via video link.

Noting that Afghanistan is now standing at the crossroads of history, Wang said that the country is still facing severe challenges, such as humanitarian issues, people's livelihoods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Some international forces may also use political, economic and financial means to create new troubles for Afghanistan.

The neighboring countries, more than anyone else, want to help Afghanistan get out of chaos, he said. They should exert a positive influence on the situation development on the basis of respecting the sovereign independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan.

Wang stressed that the United States and its allies should learn profound lessons and assume their due responsibilities on the Afghan issue.

"The common view of the international community is that the end of military intervention by the United States and its allies should be the beginning of them assuming their responsibilities," Wang said.

"They are more obligated than any other country to provide economic, livelihood and humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people, and help Afghanistan maintain stability, prevent chaos and move toward sound development on the premise of respecting the sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan."

He said the neighbors should guide and urge the Afghan Taliban to unite with all ethnic groups and factions, build a broad and inclusive political structure, pursue moderate and prudent domestic and foreign policies, draw a clear line with terrorist forces, and establish and develop friendly relations with other countries, especially neighboring countries.

The Taliban has recently made positive statements on issues such as forming a government, fighting terrorism and making friends with its neighbors. "We welcome the statements and the key is to transform them into concrete action," he said, adding the two most important points are broad inclusiveness and resolute crackdown on terrorism.

Afghanistan's neighbors should play a unique role in providing a good external environment for Afghanistan's stability and reconstruction and meanwhile addressing their own legitimate concerns, Wang said.

He proposed six aspects for coordination and cooperation at the current stage, including helping Afghanistan strengthen epidemic prevention and control, keeping port gates open, strengthening management of refugees and emigrants, providing humanitarian assistance as soon as possible, deepening anti-terrorism cooperation and carrying out anti-drug cooperation.

Wang announced that China has decided to urgently provide 200 million yuan (30.96 million U.S. dollars) worth of grain, winter supplies, vaccines and medicines to Afghanistan, according to the needs of the Afghan people.

He said that China has decided to donate 3 million vaccine doses to the Afghan people in the first batch. China is also ready to provide more anti-epidemic and emergency materials to Afghanistan under the China-South Asian Countries Emergency Supplies Reserve.

Participants positively evaluated a series of consensuses reached at the meeting and agreed to institutionalize the meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries.

The first meeting of foreign ministers of Afghanistan's neighboring countries was chaired by Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Also attending the meeting were Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin, Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov and Deputy Foreign Minister of Turkmenistan Vepa Khadzhiev. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 03:36:08|Editor: huaxia

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NEW YORK, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- While the federal government sharpens new strategy to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, the return of unvaccinated school children to classrooms, cold weather in the northern states and the upcoming holiday season could give the coronavirus new opportunities to spread in the United States, further fueling the cases and hospitalizations consistently on rise.

"I don't know if we've peaked for all time, but the wave that was currently ongoing seems to have crested and is falling in some states but is rising in others," Andrew Noymer, an infectious disease epidemiologist and demographer at the University of California, Irvine, was quoted on Wednesday by The Wall Street Journal as saying.

According to The New York Times, the 7-day average of confirmed cases of the pandemic stood at 152,393 nationwide on Tuesday, with its 14-day change striking a 1-percent increase. COVID-19-related deaths were 1,499 on Tuesday, with the 14-day change realizing a 34-percent rise.

STATES WOUNDED MOST

Altogether 650,532 Americans have died from COVID-19 as of Wednesday, averaging more than 1,100 deaths per day since the first coronavirus death was reported in this country, according to data compiled by Johns Hopkins University. Some states have sustained especially large death tolls.

New Jersey, which faced a brutal early surge of COVID-19 infections in spring 2020, has the nation's highest coronavirus death rate, totaling 303 fatalities per 100,000 residents since the start of the pandemic last year, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Mississippi has the second-highest death rate, at 291 per 100,000 people, a toll driven partly by a recent wave of infections that's left Mississippi with the nation's third-highest rate of new cases per day in the last week.

New York has suffered 279 deaths per 100,000, the country's third-highest rate. The death rate statistics published by the CDC list New York City (403 deaths per 100,000) separately from the rest of New York State (184).

Another five states have death rates above 250 per 100,000 residents: Louisiana (273), Massachusetts (265), Arizona (261), Rhode Island (261) and Alabama (253).

Some 15 other states have suffered more than 200 deaths per 100,000 residents, including larger states like Pennsylvania (221), Florida (218), Michigan (217), Georgia (217) and Illinois (210).

BLOCK AND SHORTAGE

One big news related with the pandemic on Wednesday was that Florida's Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper agreed to set aside a stay on his ruling and blocked the Sunshine State's mask mandate ban, effective immediately. With the motion to vacate the stay granted, Republican Governor Ron DeSantis' ban, which requires districts to offer parental opt-outs or face a financial penalty, is now on hold for at least the duration of a forthcoming court challenge in appellate court.

The back-and-forth legal battle began after Judge Cooper found the governor's ban unlawful last month following a lawsuit brought by pro-mask parents. Cooper ruled a 2021 law, the Parents' Bill of Rights, protecting a district's choice to install protections like a mask mandate provided it meets certain criteria if challenged.

DeSantis has maintained his executive order and connected administrative rules are lawful, continuing to defend the action as protecting a parent's right to choose what's best for the health and wellbeing of their children.

On Tuesday, northwestern U.S. state Idaho's public health leaders announced that they activated "crisis standards of care," allowing health care rationing for the state's northern hospitals because there are more coronavirus patients than the institutions can handle.

The state health agency cited "a severe shortage of staffing and available beds in the northern area of the state caused by a massive increase in patients with COVID-19 who require hospitalization," reported NBC.

The Idaho Department of Health warned residents that they may not get the care they would normally expect if they need to be hospitalized. The move came as the state's confirmed coronavirus cases skyrocketed in recent weeks. Idaho has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the United States.

STRATEGY AND MILESTONE

U.S. President Joe Biden on Thursday will present a six-pronged strategy intended to fight the spread of the highly contagious coronavirus Delta variant and increase U.S. COVID-19 vaccinations.

White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki told reporters on Tuesday that the strategy would be "working across the public and private sectors to help continue to get the pandemic under control."

Asked about possible new mandates, the spokeswoman acknowledged that the federal government cannot broadly mandate that Americans get vaccinated, adding that "we need to continue to take more steps to make sure school districts are prepared and make sure communities across the country are prepared."

Also on Tuesday, White House COVID-19 Data Director Cyrus Shahpar tweeted that three-fourths of U.S. adults have been vaccinated with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

From Sunday through Tuesday, 1.51 million doses were administered, with 681,000 newly vaccinated and 105,000 additional doses, he said, noting that there was "as usual, lower reporting over the holiday weekend" of Labor Day.

The United States reached the 75 percent threshold about a month after hitting 70 percent. Previously, Biden had hoped to achieve the 70 percent mark by July 4. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 12:50:35|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a message of congratulations to Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on the 73rd anniversary of the DPRK's founding.

In his congratulatory message, Xi noted that over the past 73 years since the DPRK's founding, the WPK has united and led the DPRK people to make relentless efforts and achieve great successes in advancing the socialist cause.

As a comrade and friend, China is sincerely happy about that, he added.

Noting that the DPRK people are now thoroughly carrying out the decisions made at the 8th Congress of the WPK and going all out to promote economic and social development, Xi said China is confident that under the strong leadership of the WPK Central Committee headed by Kim, the DPRK people, forging ahead in unity, will surely build their country better.

He stressed that the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK, which has kept growing stronger over time, is a precious treasure shared by the two sides.

Xi recalled that in recent years, he and Kim have maintained close communication and guided bilateral ties to steadily move forward and continuously produce gratifying results, which has further enriched the China-DPRK traditional friendship.

Emphasizing that he attaches great importance to the development of the China-DPRK relationship, Xi said he is ready to work with Kim to promote bilateral friendly and cooperative relations for steady and sustained development and lift the ties to higher levels, so as to create more benefits for both countries and their people. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 13:15:36|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on teachers to provide good guidance to students, as he greeted teachers across the country ahead of China's Teachers' Day that falls on Friday.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a letter to representatives of model teaching units named after late geophysicist Huang Danian, a professor at Jilin University who helped China make advances in deep earth exploration. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 16:12:06|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chris Donahue, the last U.S. soldier to depart from Afghanistan, boarded a C-17 cargo plane at the international airport in Kabul on Aug. 30, marking an end to America's two decades of war in the battered country.

The chaotic scenes of the hasty U.S. military withdrawal are eye-popping: crowds of Afghans were chasing a U.S. plane as it taxied along the runway in the airport; some of those who clung to the plane fell to their deaths after takeoff; the U.S. soldiers opened fire on civilians following a deadly terrorist attack targeting the airport.

The appalling picture best demonstrates the inhumanity of the "America First" doctrine, the thinly-disguised "law of the jungle," under which Americans' lives matter but the others' do not.

"AMERICA FIRST"

The U.S. administration of President Joe Biden has stoutly defended its withdrawal decision, insisting that the exit from Afghanistan is in the interests of the United States.

"This focus on narrow national interest is what (former U.S. President Donald) Trump called 'America First.' Biden would never use that term," but they share the same lodestar, said a recent article published by The Atlantic.

Actually, putting "America First" is entrenched in the United States' political genes. Former U.S. President Richard Nixon once said "our interests must shape our commitments, rather than the other way around," showing America's own interests are the only thing that the U.S. government cares about.

From isolationism that advocated non-involvement in European affairs to the Monroe Doctrine that competed for dominance in the Americas, from Wilsonianism and "internationalism" that devised and pursued U.S. global hegemony to Trump and Biden's hegemonic practices, the U.S. foreign policies have seemingly varied over the years, but with the underlying aim unchanged: to put "America First."

The COVID-19 pandemic has further unmasked "America First" as a self-serving slogan. Since the onset of the outbreak, the United States has astonished the world by intercepting other countries' response supplies, forbidding exports of medical materials and hoarding vaccines.

LAW OF THE JUNGLE

After WWII, the United States, with superior national strength, designed a set of so-called "international rules" and on that foundation, built various global agencies and mechanisms, most of which have been under the control of Washington and its allies, leaving weak countries scarce chances to decide their own fates.

As suggested in The False Promise of Liberal Order, a book authored by Patrick Porter, professor of international security and strategy at the University of Birmingham, the world shaped by America came about as a result of coercion and compromise, sometimes brutality.

However, the international landscape has been drastically changing in recent years as emerging economies keep burgeoning. Facing a relatively declining power and a sharply rising strategic anxiety, Washington has adopted a utilitarian attitude towards the "international rules" it once underpinned, supporting the ones that enhance U.S. interests but discarding those unfavorable.

Many powerless countries have succumbed to the world's sole superpower's wanton behaviors, which range from quitting international treaties and bodies to prioritizing domestic legislation over international law as well as imposing unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction.

"America First" is pulling the world back to the age of "law of the jungle."

ANXIETY AMONG ALLIES

Today, more countries are suffering from the United States's reckless movements to put "America First," and its allies are no exception. Claiming that the Nord Stream 2 pipeline linking Russia and Germany is threatening the energy security of Europe, Washington has repeatedly opposed the project and imposed unilateral sanctions.

No wonder Joseph W. Sullivan, a senior advisor at the Lindsey Group, said in an analysis published in Foreign Policy that the Biden administration "continues to pursue U.S. interests in a way that hurts the rest of the world."

Moreover, the United States indulges in forming ideological cliques and fomenting antagonism. In August, the White House announced that in December Biden will convene leaders from "the world's democracies" at a virtual Summit for Democracy, to be followed "in roughly a year's time by a second, in-person summit."

However, news portal Politico said in an article that Biden's proposal for the summit has "spurs anxieties and skepticism" among U.S. allies or partners.

More ironically, a recent poll commissioned by the Alliance of Democracies Foundation among 50,000 respondents in more than 50 countries found that nearly half of the respondents see the United States as a threat to democracy.

"From the COVID-19 pandemic to global trade rules, from climate change to economic development, the United States is actively frustrating the priorities of most of the world's democracies. In the process, U.S. foreign policy is -- in the name of democracy -- compounding the global crisis of democracy and delegitimizing U.S. power," said an article released by the website of Foreign Affairs magazine. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 16:17:14|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has been advocating deepening the partnership among BRICS countries, and has put forward manifold proposals in this regard on various international occasions.

The 13th BRICS summit is about to kick off on Thursday. The following are some of Xi's proposals for strengthening the partnership among the emerging-market bloc that groups Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

Nov. 17, 2020

Addressing the 12th BRICS summit via video link in Beijing, Xi called on BRICS countries to uphold multilateralism and work in solidarity to overcome global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic and a virus-hit world economy.

Xi said China will work with other parties to flesh out the BRICS partnership on the new industrial revolution at a faster pace, citing upcoming measures including the launch of an innovation center in Xiamen, Fujian Province, for such partnership.

"When the wind is strong and the tides are high, we must be even more focused on our direction. We must keep pace and work as a team to break the waves and navigate steadily toward a brighter future," Xi said in his speech.

Nov. 14, 2019

In a speech entitled "Together for a New Chapter in BRICS Cooperation" at the 11th summit of BRICS in Brasilia, capital of Brazil, Xi said the BRICS countries should grasp the trend of the times, respond to the call of the people, and shoulder their responsibilities.

BRICS countries should work to foster a security environment of peace and stability, he said, urging the five members to safeguard peace and development for all, uphold fairness and justice, and promote win-win results.

BRICS countries should also maintain close strategic communication and coordination and speak in one voice for a more just and equitable international order, he added.

July 26, 2018

At the Plenary Session of the 10th BRICS summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, Xi urged BRICS countries to deepen strategic partnership and work to open up a second "Golden Decade."

"Let us work together with the rest of the international community for an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world that enjoys lasting peace, universal security and common prosperity," said the Chinese president in a speech titled "Turn Our Vision into a Reality."

"We should call on all parties to abide by international law and basic norms governing international relations and to settle disputes through dialogue and differences through consultation," Xi said, adding that the BRICS should jointly work for a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, equality, justice and win-win cooperation.

Sept. 4, 2017

When addressing the ninth BRICS summit in the southeastern Chinese city of Xiamen, Xi said the five countries should find areas where their respective development policies and priorities converge, and work to build a big market for trade and investment, achieve smooth flow of currency and finance, and realize infrastructure connectivity.

"Despite our differences in national conditions, our five countries are in a similar stage of development and share the same development goals. We all face an arduous task in growing the economy," Xi noted.

"With a focus on structural reform and sustainable development, we need to expand our converging interests and share experience on innovation, entrepreneurship, industrial development and production capacity to boost our economic development," said Xi.

Oct. 16, 2016

At the eighth BRICS summit in the western Indian state of Goa, Xi said BRICS countries should take the lead in opening-up and international cooperation by prioritizing such sectors as economy and trade, financial circulation, infrastructure connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.

The Chinese leader urged the five countries to strengthen coordination and communication in major international issues and regional hot issues, in a bid to jointly tackle global challenges such as natural disasters, climate change, infectious diseases and terrorism.

July 9, 2015

At the seventh BRICS summit in the southwestern Russian city of Ufa, Xi called on BRICS countries to build a four-pronged partnership -- safeguarding world peace, boosting common development, promoting diversified civilization and strengthening global economic governance.

July 15, 2014

In a speech at the sixth BRICS summit held in Brazil, Xi said BRICS countries should carry forward the spirit of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, and develop a closer, more comprehensive and more solid partnership.

March 27, 2013

When attending the fifth BRICS summit in South Africa, Xi said BRICS countries should forge a strong bond among them through building this partnership, and work hard to push forward cooperation in economy and trade, finance, infrastructure, movement of people and other fields.

"No matter how the international situation may change, we should stay committed to pursuing peaceful development and win-win cooperation," he said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 18:52:10|Editor: huaxia

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Travellers on Singapore Airlines flight SQ325 pick up luggage in the baggage hall at Singapore's Changi Airport on Sept. 8, 2021. The first batch of vaccinated travellers arrived Wednesday in Singapore via the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) from Frankfurt, Germany. The country implemented the VTL to facilitate fully vaccinated persons to travel into Singapore under reduced border measures. (Photo by Then Chih Wey/Xinhua)
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 19:30:50|Editor: huaxia

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-- New finds at China's legendary Sanxingdui Ruins site have dazzled archaeologists with their historical value as well as the display of creativity and ingenuity.

-- Some of the bronze wares discovered during the current excavation had never been seen elsewhere in China, nor have they been recorded in the world's history of bronze wares. "I've never seen anything so unorthodox before," said an expert.

-- The excavation has entered a critical stage, with more items yet to be unearthed and expected to defy the conventional wisdom of archaeologists.

CHENGDU, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- More than 500 pieces of relics have been discovered in recent months at the legendary Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province, dazzling archaeologists with their historical value as well as the display of creativity and ingenuity.

The relics, discovered at the six new sacrificial pits of the ruins, include golden masks, jade and ivory artifacts and bronze wares that were exquisitely built and uniquely shaped, said the Sichuan Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration on Thursday.

The new finds bring the total number of items discovered at Sanxingdui to nearly 2,000 after the excavation of No.3 to No.8 sacrificial pits began in October last year.

An archaeologist works at the No. 8 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province, Sept. 2, 2021. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

"The new discoveries demonstrate once again that imagination and creativity of the ancient Chinese far surpassed what people today had expected," said Tang Fei, chief of the Sichuan Provincial Cultural Relics and Archaeology Research Institute.

Tang added that the excavation of the new pits has entered a critical stage, with more items yet to be unearthed and expected to defy the conventional wisdom of archaeologists.

Originally discovered in the late 1920s, the Sanxingdui Ruins have been dubbed as one of the world's greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century.

Located in the city of Guanghan, around 60 km from the provincial capital Chengdu, the ruins covering an area of 12 square km are believed to be the remnants of the Shu Kingdom, dating back some 4,500 to 3,000 years.

While overseeing the excavation work, the Sichuan Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration is also coordinating with top archaeologists in the country to restore the relics and conduct research on their historical value, after which the relics will be exhibited in museums.

Photo taken on Sept. 2, 2021 shows a golden mask discovered at the No. 3 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

GOLDEN MASK

A highlight of the new finds is a golden mask that was unearthed in mid-June in the No.3 sacrificial pit.

When unearthed, the mask looked like a piece of scrunched paper and its shape was difficult to discern. After restoration work that took less than a week, a complete golden mask was unveiled.

Weighing about 100 grams, the mask is 37.2 cm wide and 16.5 cm high, with hollow eyes and eyebrows, round ears, a high nose, and a large and slightly open mouth. The formidable-looking golden mask is by far the most complete mask unearthed at Sanxingdui.

Photo taken on Sept. 2, 2021 shows a golden mask discovered at the No. 3 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

"It depicts the 'god' of all worshipers at Sanxingdui," said Ran Honglin, a researcher with Sichuan Provincial Cultural Relics and Archaeology Research Institute.

"The facial features and size of the gold foil mask are similar to those of the bronze heads unearthed before," said Ran. "We figure that the mask was used to cover the bronze head, as opposed to being a stand-alone artifact."

In terms of craftsmanship, Ran said that the mask has not been remelted or recast. "Gold is very malleable. It can be hammered into thin sheets and then inlaid into the desired shape," he added.

Photo taken on Sept. 2, 2021 shows a part of a bronze altar discovered at the No. 8 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

UNIQUE BRONZE WARES

Some of the bronze wares discovered during the current excavation had never been seen elsewhere in China, nor have they been recorded in the world's history of bronze wares, according to archaeologists.

"They are so unique that even we don't know how to name them," said Zhao Hao, an associate professor with Peking University, who oversees the excavation of the No.8 pit.

For instance, a bronze altar was found in the No.8 pit. On it stand bronze figures in various sizes and poses. Some are dancing in colorful gowns. Some are carrying sacrificial offering on their shoulders, with tattoos on their calves. There is also a collar-wearing mythical creature in the scene.

"The complexity of the item is eye-opening. The altar depicts the scene of a sacrificial ritual, presenting people's understanding of the whole world," Zhao said.

Another altar discovered in the No.3 pit looks very different, with heads, dragons and unidentified animals on it. With no handy names, experts simply call it "peculiar" for now.

"It's just peculiar. I've never seen anything so unorthodox before," said Xu Feihong, a lecturer at Shanghai University who oversees the excavation of the No.3 pit.

"However, the craftsmanship, form and content of these cultural relics are very complex and rich in archaeological information," Xu added. "They have defied our previous understanding of bronze wares and posed great challenges to our research."

Photo taken on Sept. 6, 2021 shows a bronze mythical creature discovered at the No. 3 sacrificial pit of the Sanxingdui Ruins site in southwest China's Sichuan Province. (Xinhua/Wang Xi)

During excavation, archaeologists also found some items that seemed misplaced in time. One bronze head, for instance, bears a striking resemblance with the Japanese fictional superhero Ultraman, and a jade knife looks almost identical in shape and size to the ones used today.

"You can directly put the knife on a dinner table serving Western cuisine without it looking out of place," said Li Haichao, an expert with Sichuan University.

(Reporting by Hui Xiaoyong, Xiao Lin, Tong Fang, Zhang Chaoqun, Li Qianwei, Zhou Erjie; Video reporters: Yang Hua, Xiao Lin, Tong Fang, Liu Hai, Chen Juwei; Video editor: Luo Hui) 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 21:20:10|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The recent preposterous accusations by a bunch of Western politicians against the Hong Kong police's law-based arrests of some members of a notorious anti-China group have once again revealed their hypocrisy on issues related to the Chinese city.

Hong Kong is a society under the rule of law. No organization or individual has any privilege above the law. The Hong Kong police's operations are in line with the national security law, and have defended the sanctity of the rule of law.

A year after the implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong, the city has returned from chaos to stability and tranquility. The law has deterred anti-China forces in Hong Kong and blocked the intervention of external forces.

However, as stability returns to Hong Kong, some Western politicians are getting increasingly agitated. The reason is that they want to continue intervening in Hong Kong affairs and stirring up chaos there so as to disrupt China's development.

Those Western politicians have been used to tap human rights, democracy or freedom of speech as excuses to justify unlawful groups and individuals in Hong Kong. Their remarks and actions have already exposed their sinister intention to sabotage the rule of law in Hong Kong, obstruct the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's law-based governance, and undermine the city's long-term peace and stability.

The double standards held by those Western politicians have also been brought into the sunlight.

While those Western politicians attempt to justify the criminal actions that put Hong Kong's stability in jeopardy, Western governments have never been weak in cracking down on acts that challenge national security, unity and social stability in their own countries.

The United States itself has the world's strictest national security laws, which applies to every inch of its territory. Washington has been relentless in cracking down on national security crimes and even willfully abuses the pretext of national security to undermine the legitimate rights and interests of other countries.

With the implementation of the national security law in Hong Kong, the city has already built up a solid law-based fortress against anti-China and destabilizing forces. The people in Hong Kong can now continue to enjoy their basic rights and freedom in accordance with the law.

As for those ill-intentioned Western politicians, no matter how hard they will try in the future, their scheme of intervention will always be doomed to fail. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:54:11|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- China will donate 100 million more doses of COVID-19 vaccines to developing countries within this year on top of a donation of 100 million U.S. dollars to COVAX, said Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday.

Xi made the announcement in Beijing while addressing the 13th BRICS summit via video link.

China will strive to provide a total of 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to the world by the end of this year, said Xi, noting that China, to date, has provided more than 1 billion doses of finished and bulk vaccines to over 100 countries and international organizations.

Xi urges BRICS countries to advance building of community with shared future for mankind

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Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 23:15:19|Editor: huaxia

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File photo taken on Oct. 12, 2017 shows huge tanks that store contaminated radioactive wastewater in Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. (Xinhua)

The Japanese government decided in April to start discharging radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant into the sea from around spring of 2023. The decision triggered strong criticism from neighboring countries.

TOKYO, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will dispatch a team of experts to Japan's Fukushima Prefecture in December to review the country's plan to dump radioactive water from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant into the sea, an IAEA official said Thursday.

The plan was proposed after China and South Korea, as well as local fishing communities, have voiced strong criticism against releasing the contaminated water accumulated at the plant since the 2011 massive earthquake and tsunami catastrophe in northeastern Japan.

"The agency is firmly committed to ensuring that the review is comprehensive and objective and that the results are conveyed to the international community," Lydie Evrard, head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security of the IAEA, said at an online news conference.

The Japanese government decided in April to start discharging the water into sea from around spring of 2023.

The decision has received strong criticism from China and other neighboring countries.

China has expressed serious concerns about Japan's decision to discharge contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear station, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian saying that China urged the Japanese side to take a responsible attitude and treat the issue of nuclear waste disposal with caution.

Meanwhile, South Korea has also voiced its "grave concerns", with Foreign Ministry spokesman Choi Young-sam saying "it will be difficult to accept if the Japanese side decides to release the contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant without sufficient consultations."

People protest against Japan's decision to dump radioactive wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific Ocean outside the Japanese embassy in Seoul, South Korea, April 14, 2021. (Photo by Xu Ruxi/Xinhua)

Evrard said the IAEA will select the inspection team members from 11 countries including China and South Korea.

IAEA staff may travel to Japan sometime next year to present the results before the actual discharge of the nuclear water, she said.

Water pumped into the ruined reactors at the Fukushima plant to cool the melted fuel, mixed with rain and groundwater, which has also been contaminated, is being treated using an advanced liquid processing system to remove most contaminants.

However, substances like tritium -- a radioactive byproduct of nuclear reactors -- are hard to filter out.

According to some marine experts, traces of ruthenium, cobalt, strontium, and plutonium isotopes in the wastewater also raise concerns.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-10 00:52:42|Editor: huaxia

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic (2nd L, Front) attends the ceremony of laying the foundation stone for a COVID-19 vaccine production factory in Belgrade, Serbia, on Sept. 9, 2021. Construction of the first Chinese COVID-19 vaccine production facility in Europe started in Serbia on Thursday. (Photo by Predrag Milosavljevic/Xinhua)

BELGRADE, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Construction of the first Chinese COVID-19 vaccine production facility in Europe started in Serbia on Thursday.

The factory is planned to produce 30 million vaccine doses annually starting in April 2022, and is expected to supply Serbia and several countries in the region and Europe with the Chinese-developed Sinopharm vaccines.

The foundation stone for the new factory was laid by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in the presence of Chinese Ambassador Chen Bo, according to a press release from the president's office.

Vucic said that he was proud that Serbia, together with partners from China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was "trying and seems to be able to solve some global problems."

"This is not a partnership of interest but a proof of friendship," Vucic said.

Back in January this year, Serbia started a mass vaccination campaign with the Sinopharm jab, which has been most widely used among Serbian citizens along with products from other manufacturers.

In June, Serbia started to produce Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine at the Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera "Torlak" in Belgrade.

Chinese vaccines, including Sinopharm and Sinovac, have been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) for emergency use.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday while addressing the 13th BRICS summit via video link that China will strive to provide a total of 2 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to the world by the end of this year, noting that China, to date, has provided more than 1 billion doses of finished and bulk vaccines to over 100 countries and international organizations.

Since the pandemic broke out, China has sent medical aid and batches of vaccines to Serbia and helped build two "Fire Eye" laboratories for PCR testing. Chinese doctors spent months helping set up prevention measures in the country. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-10 02:37:31|Editor: huaxia

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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang attends the seventh summit of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Cooperation via video link, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 9, 2021. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday called on Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries to broaden the areas of cooperation and jointly promote sustainable and inclusive development within the subregion.

Li made the remarks via video link at the seventh summit of the GMS Economic Cooperation, which was hosted by Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen.

Also attending the video summit were Lao Prime Minister Phankham Viphavanh, Myanmar's State Administration Council Chair Sen-Gen Min Aung Hlaing, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and the Asian Development Bank President Masatsugu Asakawa.

Noting that the current COVID-19 pandemic is still fluctuating globally, and instability and uncertainty in the global economy are increasing, Li said the economic recovery and sustainable growth of countries in the subregion are facing new challenges.

"We should build consensus, enhance political mutual trust, broaden cooperation areas, improve cooperation levels, and jointly promote the sustainable and inclusive development of the subregion," Li said.

Li called on the GMS countries to deepen cooperation on water resources for the benefit of coastal nations. They should also work together to prevent and control the pandemic, strengthen trade and investment, and jointly promote economic recovery, said Li.

Since last year, China has been providing the five Mekong countries with annual hydrological data on the Lancang River, and has taken the initiative in launching the Lancang-Mekong water resource cooperation information-sharing platform website.

"We are willing to jointly hold the second Lancang-Mekong water resource cooperation ministerial meeting and cooperation forum, and strengthen the capacity of integrated river basin management and water resource management through solidarity and cooperation," he said.

In terms of COVID-19 prevention and control, Li vowed to continue providing vaccines and other medical aid within China's capacity by making the Mekong River countries a priority, and to carry out cooperation on epidemic surveillance and infectious disease prevention, making use of the special funds for public health that have been established.

Li called for strengthening trade and investment by speeding up the ratification and implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and implementing the protocol on upgrading the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area, so as to inject vitality into countries' development.

"We should leverage the exemplary role of the upcoming operation of the China-Laos railway, speed up the construction of the China-Thailand railway, the Phnom Penh-Sihanoukville Expressway and other major projects, and advance the building of a regional power-coordination center," he said.

In terms of sustainable development, Li called for strengthening cooperation on tackling climate change and environmental protection, as well as discussing new models of tourism cooperation in light of the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

"We should draw on each other's respective strengths and make concerted efforts to promote the coordinated development of the GMS Economic Cooperation and the Lancang-Mekong cooperation mechanisms through upholding openness and inclusiveness," he said.

"We welcome enterprises from all countries to invest in China," Li said, adding that domestic and foreign enterprises will be treated equally, and China's development will bring new development opportunities to the Mekong River countries.

China is willing to work with the Mekong River countries to promote regional economic integration, safeguard regional peace and stability, and make new contributions to subregional integrated development and common prosperity, he stressed. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 09:47:11|Editor: huaxia

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ACCRA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) suspended the membership of Guinea, which has been gripped by a military coup, said a communique issued by the ECOWAS late Wednesday.

The decision was made at a virtual meeting of the organization, convened by ECOWAS Chairman Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, to discuss the political developments in Guinea.

"The authority expressed deep concern over the political developments in the Republic of Guinea following the coup d'etat of Sept. 5, 2021 and their consequences for regional peace and stability," the communique said.

The regional bloc demanded the immediate restoration of civilian rule in Guinea, adding that the "defense and security forces should maintain a constitutional posture."

It reaffirmed its strong opposition to any political change by unconstitutional means and condemned, in the strongest terms, this coup in Guinea.

The communique added that an ECOWAS mission led by Ghanaian Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey with representatives from Nigeria, Burkina Faso and the ECOWAS Commission would visit Guinea on Thursday.

On Sunday, Mamady Doumbouya, a lieutenant-colonel, announced that his forces arrested Guinea's President Alpha Conde and dissolved the government and national institutions. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:42:53|Editor: huaxia

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YAOUNDE, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- A military tribunal in Cameroon's restive English-speaking region of Southwest has sentenced four men to death after they were found guilty of the massacre of seven school children, a lawyer told Xinhua on Thursday.

"According to the judgment, they will be sentenced to death by a firing squad," Walters Atoh, lead counsel of the accused told Xinhua on phone.

The judgment was passed by Lieutenant Colonel Tchinda Yeneyo Jackson, a judge at the Military Tribunal in Buea on Tuesday.

In October last year, gunmen stormed a private school in Kumba, a town in the war-torn region killing seven children and wounding a dozen others. Atoh said the four convicted persons were sentenced for their role in the massacre that was widely condemned.

"There were 12 accused persons. Out of the twelve 12 persons, four of them were discharged and acquitted. Eight were convicted and sentenced to prison. Out of the eight, four were convicted and sentenced to five months in prison whereas four others were sentenced to death," Atoh said.

Since 2017, separatist fighters have been clashing with government forces in Cameroon's two English-speaking regions where the separatists want to create an independent nation they called "Ambazonia". Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:47:20|Editor: huaxia

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TRIPOLI, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah on Thursday met with visiting German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, and discussed the latest developments and the upcoming elections in Libya.

"The meeting discussed the latest developments in Libya and the possibility of pushing forward the elections to be held later this year, as well as any challenges facing the elections," according to a statement issued by the Libyan Government's information office.

Maas commended the good progress they have seen in Libya, hoping Libya to keep on this path.

"Elections and the withdrawal of foreign forces are important next steps, and the conclusion of the Second Berlin Conference on Libya must be implemented," he added.

In February, the UN-sponsored Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF) selected a new executive authority of a unity government and a presidency council, ending years of political division in the country.

The new executive authority's main task is to prepare for the general elections to be held on December 24 this year, as approved by the LPDF. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 23:40:43|Editor: huaxia

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DAR ES SALAAM, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Tanzania will host the first-ever East African Community Regional Tourism Expo from Oct. 9 to Oct. 16 in the northern tourist city of Arusha, an official said on Thursday.

The expo aims to attract tourists and promoting investment in the tourism industry within the East African Community (EAC) member states.

Mary Masanja, the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, told a news conference in the capital Dodoma that hosting of the tourism expo will be rotational in all the EAC member states of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan.

Masanja said the hosting of the tourism expo in the East African regional bloc was approved by EAC ministers of wildlife and tourism in July 2021 under a Tourism Marketing Strategy (2021-2025).

She said the East African Regional Tourism Expo will be a forum for bringing together state and non-state tourism actors to showcase the rich and diverse tourism attractions and investment opportunities in the region.

The official said the expo will also be a platform for business-to-business engagements and dialogue aimed at the recovery of the tourism and wildlife sectors.

According to Masanja, the expo will address various issues, including tourism resilience and crisis management, digital tourism marketing, promotion of multi-destination tourism packages, collaboration and cooperation in combating poaching and illegal wildlife trade in the region.

"The expo is also a great opportunity to strengthen conservation of natural and cultural resources as well as stimulating tourism growth, particularly conference tourism," she added. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-10 04:06:07|Editor: huaxia

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Tunisian President Kais Saied (R) meets with Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah in Tunis, Tunisia, on Sept. 9, 2021. Tunisian President Kais Saied on Thursday discussed bilateral relations with visiting Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, Tunisian presidency announced in a statement. (Tunisian Presidency/Handout via Xinhua)

TUNIS, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian President Kais Saied on Thursday discussed bilateral relations with visiting Libyan Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, Tunisian presidency announced in a statement.

On his official visit to Tunisia, Dbeibah was accompanied by his countries' ministers of health and interior.

"This meeting represented an opportunity to review the strong brotherhood and the fruitful cooperation between Tunisia and Libya in various fields, and to reaffirm the unity of destiny and the coherence of development, stability and security of the two countries," read the statement.

The two sides agreed on the need to find common solutions to some issues and difficulties related to health, movement of people and goods at the crossings points, debts, and Tunisia's contribution to the reconstruction of Libya.

They also discussed ways to intensify coordination and exchange of information to secure borders and combat terrorism and organized crimes. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 19:28:26|Editor: huaxia

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KIEV, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Over 5.6 million Ukrainians have received the first COVID-19 vaccine dose and 4.4 million people have been fully vaccinated as of Wednesday, Ukrainian Health Minister Viktor Lyashko said on Facebook.

Ukraine has given over 10 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines since the start of the campaign, with 3.5 million jabs carried out last month, the minister said.

Lyashko noted that 57 percent of health workers and 30 percent of educators are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

The current population of Ukraine is over 43.4 million.

The number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations has been growing steadily in Ukraine over the past couple of weeks.

As of Thursday, 2,306,939 COVID-19 cases and 54,175 related deaths have been reported, while 2,217,563 patients have recovered, said the country's health authorities. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:26:15|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on Sept. 12, 2021 shows a scene of the joint strategic exercise "Zapad-2021" by Russian and Belarusian armed forces at a training ground in Belarus. Russian and Belarusian armed forces kicked off their joint strategic exercise "Zapad-2021" on Sept. 9. The drills were held at nine training grounds in Russia, the Baltic Sea, and at five training grounds in Belarus. (Photo by Henadz Zhinkov/Xinhua)

MOSCOW, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Russian and Belarusian armed forces kicked off their joint strategic exercise "Zapad-2021" at a training ground in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod region on Thursday.

Servicemen from Russia, Belarus, Armenia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia attended the opening ceremony, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.

The drills will be held from Friday to Sept. 16 at nine training grounds in Russia, the Baltic Sea, and at five training grounds in Belarus.

In total, 200,000 personnel, about 80 aircraft and helicopters, 760 units of military equipment, and 15 ships will participate.

The exercise "is purely defensive" and aimed at training troops to conduct military operations in modern conditions and increasing the operational compatibility of the military command bodies of Russia and its allies and friends, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Nikolai Pankov said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 23:43:29|Editor: huaxia

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BELGRADE, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Construction of the first Chinese COVID-19 vaccine production facility in Europe started in Serbia on Thursday.

The factory is planned to produce 30 million vaccine doses annually starting in April 2022, and is expected to supply Serbia and several countries in the region and Europe with the Chinese-developed Sinopharm vaccines.

The foundation stone for the new factory was laid by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in the presence of Chinese Ambassador Chen Bo, according to a press release from the president's office.

Vucic said that he was proud that Serbia, together with partners from China and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was "trying and seems to be able to solve some global problems."

"This is not a partnership of interest but a proof of friendship," Vucic said.

Back in January this year, Serbia started a mass vaccination campaign with the Sinopharm jab, which has been most widely used among Serbian citizens along with products from other manufacturers.

In June, Serbia started to produce Russia's Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine at the Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera "Torlak" in Belgrade. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 13:16:18|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Mu variant of COVID-19, first detected in Colombia, has spread to 49 U.S. states, India's Wion news channel reported.

Nebraska is the only U.S. state which hasn't detected it so far, said the report on Tuesday.

The new virus variant is reportedly more transmissible than the Delta variant, which has currently ravaged several parts of the world, said the report.

"The Mu variant has a constellation of mutations that indicate potential properties of immune escape," the World Health Organization (WHO) was quoted by the report as saying.

In the United States, California has reported the highest number of cases of the Mu variant with 384 cases, according to the report.

The United States reportedly witnessed a peak of the Mu variant cases in mid-July, said the news channel. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 13:52:08|Editor: huaxia

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DAMASCUS, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Since the United States entered Syria without the consent of the Syrian government in 2014, its presence here has never helped to end a civil war, but rather increased instability in the country, said local political experts.

In Syria, the U.S. intervention was based on the pretext of fighting radical groups such as the Islamic State (IS), which was created in the wake of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003.

The experts pointed out that since the United States launched an international war on terrorism following the Sept. 11 attacks, its policy was defined mainly by military interventions to reshape the Middle East in accordance with its own vision and agendas, not for the benefit of the people in the regional countries.

Muhammad Omari, a Syrian political expert, told Xinhua that terrorist threats still exist in Syria and that terrorist groups are covered by foreign powers, which constantly provide them with arms and gear to prolong their existence and further destabilize the country.

It's not a secret that the United States supports the Kurdish fighters in Northeast Syria and encourages the rebels to create a sort of regional autonomy.

Imad Salem, another political expert, agreed with Omari, stressing that the U.S. presence impedes any progress of the Syrian army in the east of the Euphrates region, which is controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The United States doesn't really want to fight terrorism and its existence in the region has only brought "destruction and catastrophes," Salem said, adding that Washington not only supports the SDF but also emboldens the sleeper cells of the IS to "carry out operations targeting the Syrian army, especially in the Syrian desert."

The analysts also believe that the United States connives in the terrorist groups' stealing of oil and other natural resources in Syria, worsening the tough economic situation of the Syrian people.

"Today there are sanctions and economic terrorism imposed on Syria amid a lack of capacity by the Syrian state to provide basic needs of the Syrian people" due to economic pressure, which would also be conducive to "creating a climate for growing terrorist organizations in the country," Omari said.

Citing statistics and facts, the political expert said that the rates of terrorism and extremism were much lower before the U.S. forces entered Syria than after their entry.

"I believe that the military occupation and the devastation, destruction, economic and social effects it leaves behind, ... create a suitable environment for terrorist organizations to exist and grow in these countries," Omari added.

The experts pointed out that the United States has taken control of key gas and oil fields in eastern Syria while imposing suffocating economic sanctions to throttle the Syrian economy in government-controlled areas, which has created a tough humanitarian crisis in Syria with a lack of basic necessities amid skyrocketing prices.

The dire situation in Syria has spillover effects. A direct negative result of the economic situation is the refugee flux to the European countries, which adds to the already existing refugee crisis there.

The experts believe that the real intention of the United States is to weaken Syria and force the Syrian government into succumbing to the American policy in the region and accepting Washington's dictation.

With time, the example of Syria can make it clear that the American strategy only destabilizes the Middle East while doing little to keep terrorist organizations at bay.

A sure conclusion, Salem said, is that the staggering costs of the "War on Terror" and its impact on the situation in the Middle East have created instability, chaos, destruction, and a lack of security. Enditem
Time Bank of Zimbabwe Limited, the first locally owned commercial bank to be established in the country, is set to reopen soon its doors to the public, the banks owners said in a statement ahead of the scheduled resumption of operations.

Standing the test of time, in order to deliver economic empowerment to both yourselves (clients) and ourselves through innovative banking services, the bank said in a statement seen by The Herald Finance and Business yesterday, adding, an exciting time is coming.

Time Bank was licensed in 1997 and began operations the same year. Mr Chris Wesley Takura Tande was the founder of Time Bank.

At that time there was no commercial bank, which was owned by local Zimbabweans. However, there were merchant banks and discount houses, which were owned by local Zimbabweans.

Time Bank managed to break new ground and established itself on the market.

The bank was very innovative in its business approach. Thereafter a number of commercial banks, which were locally owned, followed suit. However, in 2004 a number of banks were closed by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) for one reason or another, some which were hotly contested by the owners.

During that period Time Bank was also closed and had its banking licence cancelled, but disputed the reasons for its closure and cancellation of its licence. It was the first bank to take RBZ to court over its unlawful closure and cancellation of its licence.

There was then a period of protracted legal battles between the bank and RBZ. The legal battles went on for many years.

However, later on as events unfolded it turned out that Time Bank had been closed unlawfully and also that its licence had been cancelled unlawfully by the central bank.

In fact it became clear that the Reserve Bank had taken about US$5 million from Time Bank unlawfully before closing the bank and this created financial problems for Time Bank.

Time Bank requested the RBZ to refund the money and the former Governor of RBZ Dr Leornard Tsumba agreed to refund the money but his term of office ended prematurely before he had overseen the return of the funds.

However, after Dr Gono Gono took over the reins as Governor of the RBZ, he allegedly reneged on the decision to refund such money to Time Bank, forcing the bank to apply to the courts to compel the central bank to refund the money in early 2004.

The RBZ responded by closing Time Bank and putting it under a disputed curator. It appears Time Bank was punished for demanding its money back. During the period of curatorship RBZ then cancelled Time Banks licence in 2006 unlawfully, a highly placed source said.

Time Bank then applied to court for the reinstatement of its licence and in 2009 the court ruled that the banks licence be reinstated.

However, despite the reinstatement of its licence, Time Bank could not resume operations because the RBZ, under Dr G Gono, refused to hand over its assets, documents and affairs of Time Bank in the normal way at the end of curatorship, from the former curator of Time Bank and RBZ to the directors of Time Bank, because the RBZ and the former curator of Time Bank could not account for all such assets and documents. This resulted in further legal disputes.

However, while such disputes were raging on, Time Bank made a unique decision which distinguished it from all the banks that were closed.

Time Bank after the end of curatorship, under its directors and in terms of its business policies and values, made a decision to pay all its known depositors and employees their full amounts, in 2006 and that was at a time when the Zimbabwe Dollar still had some good value.

Time Bank is probably the only bank in the banking history of Zimbabwe which managed to pay all such depositors and employees their full amounts without borrowing from RBZ or getting new money from its shareholders or from Deposit Protection Corporation or raising new deposits in order to pay old depositors, a source said.

The source noted this showed that the bank valued its clients and staff members despite the difficulties it was going through. It further showed that the bank despite its problems had enough financial resources to pay its creditors, hence such banks did not deserve to be closed.

In 2015, the new Governor of reserve bank, Dr John Mangudya, after hearing both sides of the dispute, resolved the dispute between Time Bank and RBZ decisively and fairly.

In particular, the RBZ and Time Bank negotiated and entered into a settlement agreement under which the RBZ agreed to refund the US$5 million, which it had taken unlawfully from Time Bank before closing the bank Furthermore, the RBZ and Time Bank agreed on the procedures for the incomplete handover/ takeover of the assets and documents

Notably, the decision of Dr Mangudya on the mentioned refund was the same decision, which the former Governor Dr Tsumba had reached earlier, but in between them Dr Gono had made a different decision on the matter.

Thereafter, the RBZ issued a notice to the public advising that Time Bank and RBZ had resolved all their legal disputes and that Time Bank can now operate. Following such Public notice Time Bank is now set to reopen.

From the experience of Time Bank it is clear that some of the banks which were closed by RBZ should not have been closed at all. Herald
At the end of spring, the nation appeared to be on the precipice of winning the war against COVID. But coronavirus case rates increased tenfold between the beginning of July and the end of August, hampering the countrys economic recovery and putting a damper on the nations health and spirits entering a new school year.
The causes of the fire are being investigated by five prosecutors from the city and capital. The cause of the blast is currently unclear, though the connection to oxygen supplies has been suggested.
The prime minister on Thursday also attributed the incredible amount of energy required to battle the pandemic and preparation needed to seek another term in office as the reason for him not doing so. Suga though urged the public to continue practicing social distancing measures like working remotely so that we can return to safe and prosperous daily lives.
Given the dire statisticswe can no longer allow unvaccinated people back into the workplace until we better understand how they might interact with our customers and their vaccinated co-workers, Kirk Limacher, Uniteds vice president of human resources, wrote in a memo to employees, obtained by the Daily News.
But the hiring spree is also luring dozens of social workers away from non-profit school-based clinics to similar DOE jobs with higher pay. The job openings have sparked a staffing crisis for the non-profits right before the start of the school year, potentially interrupting services for kids who relied on the clinics, providers said.
During a full day of arraignments in Manhattan Supreme Court, Assistant District Attorney Kaitrin Roberts told the court of how the well-oiled organization, code-named Main Event, pumped narcotics into the streets of Harlem for more than a year while under the watchful eye of the NYPD and investigators from the Manhattan DAs office.
We are always anxious to provide services and programs in areas of need, under-served neighborhoods, said Sharon Greenberger, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater New York. The Bronx was at the top of that list. Today was almost a religious experience, when you take into account it was 30 years in the making for community activists.
In the PBAs view, any testing mandated by the department must be concluded on job time and at the citys expense, and any test received outside of the [officers] regular working hours should be subject to overtime compensation, Lynch said in a note to union members.
Before the recent spate of violence, the 47th Precinct had seen five homicides since Jan. 1. None of the shootings are believed to be connected, although three of them happened within less than a mile of each other.
The gunman casually entered Prince St. Jewelers inside the City Point mall at Albee Square in around 4:45 p.m. on Tuesday and began waving his pistol around demanding money and jewelry, police said.
Marina Verbitsky flew into a tantrum upon learning she and her family would not be allowed to board their flight departing from Floridas Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night. JetBlue employees explained to her that she and her family were too late given the plane was already taxiing on the runway
Last Tuesday police said he was trying to disappear and limit investigators ability to track him. But he apparently failed in that attempt, since investigators tracked him to a hotel parked near Dakota Dunes using the OnStar navigation system on a vehicle hed stolen from one of the victims.
Various right-wing cable outlets and websites have pushed unproven and sometimes risky alternatives to vaccines, including the anti-parasitical drug ivermectin, which in large doses, can be dangerous. Some parts of the country have reported problems with human beings purchasing and consuming animal-grade versions of the drug. The FDA issued a warning last week that medicines intended to deworm livestock should not be taken by people.
The murder of a child is difficult to understand under any circumstances, Kristi K. Johnson, assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles field office, said. Im proud of the quick investigative efforts by FBI Agents, the Santa Barbara Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection and our Mexican counterparts which led to the arrest of Mr. Coleman as he entered the United States, and I look forward to delivering justice for the young victims and their family.
Two of the weapons in the home were a short-barreled version of the AR-15 and a sawed-off shotgun, police said. Both weapons require special permits from the ATF. Downey didnt have those permits, or regular permits for the other 14 weapons, according to the feds.
Another deputy arrived at the scene moments later and tried arresting the suspect, but the 57-year-old Crystal River resident kept resisting and ended up being shot with a taser, according to the video. He still struggled with the deputies even after being tased but was eventually taken into custody.
The ongoing investigation has finally revealed why Riley, who lives in Brandon, was at the Lakeland home Saturday evening and then again early Sunday morning: he was planning to go out with search teams after Hurricane Ida and a friend, who lived in the area, had offered to make him a first aid kit.
Within the first week, I had almost 10 students come up to me and personally thank me because they wouldnt know where else to go if they hadnt seen that flag, Wallis told the Star. That spoke to me a lot for them to be able to come to me and say that. It meant that I was doing what I intended to do.
A UPS logo is on the shirt of a driver as he enters a United Parcel Service store with packages in Jackson, Miss., Monday, July 26, 2021. The Atlanta-based company said Thursday, Sept. 9, that it plans to hire more than 100,000 people for the busy holiday shipping season, many of whom will get job offers within 30-minutes of applying. UPS needs to snap up workers as fast as it can because of the tight job market. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP)
You would have to have blinders on and a sack over your head to believe the (NRA) board is making decisions without input from Mr. LaPierre, he added. ... You cant leave the fox in the hen house when the fox is killing the chickens.
Gibson  whos on track to become Bronx borough president next year after winning her Democratic primary  was among 48 Council members who voted in October 2020 to expel King after the ethics committee found he had fostered a toxic workplace environment, made sexist remarks to an aide and demanded a $2,000 kickback in return for giving government funds to an employee, among other alleged wrongdoing.
The flight was the first to take off from the Kabul airport since American forces left the country at the end of August. The accompanying scenes of chaos, including Afghans plunging to their deaths from the sides of military aircraft on takeoff and a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 U.S. service members, came to define the end of Americas two-decade war.
Chipmans nomination had stalled for months and he was widely seen as one of the administrations most contentious nominees. The White House and top Democrats had been pushing to try to save his nomination for weeks without success.
Some business owners had complained that the federal supplement made it harder to fill open jobs. Those pleas led governors in about 25 states to cancel the $300 payment early and to shut off the two emergency programs in most of those states as well. But academic research has found that so far, the early cut-offs in jobless benefits have led to only a small increase in hiring in those states.
Branding Cheney a RINO, or Republican in name only, Trump urged his legion of supporters in Wyoming to rally behind Hageman in what is likely to be a scorched-earth battle against one of his most strident critics in the GOP.
The paper went on to report that Pope Francis himself had approved Novells resignation as a priest. Novell will now have to ask for the Popes permission for a dispensation from the priestly vow of celibacy and obedience that all bishops in the Catholic Church must take when they enter the clergy.
We were understandably stricken. We had this one elderly man that we know who died in a basement in Cypress Hills, says Michelle Neugebauer, executive director of the Cypress Hills Local Development Corp., one of the groups running the pilot program. Its this incredible tragedy. And we keep thinking: Wow, if we could have really had the full funding, maybe we could have gotten further. Maybe we could have prevented some loss of life if there was this investment in small homes. 
And while Washington and the private sector consider bold next steps in improving our cyber security, there are immediate measures that can be taken. Through a process called red teaming, companies can retain an adversary to audit their network, find vulnerabilities and score vulnerability levels. They could pursue internal phishing exercises and provide mandatory training for all employees and conduct vulnerability assessments that analyze the architecture of a companys defense, firewalls and access control and identity management. Having a confidential report detailing the vulnerabilities allows the company to develop a strategy to identify and mitigate their vulnerabilities. It is safe to assume that is a new generation of ISIS and Taliban terrorists interested in carrying out attacks using the internet will find a way to partner with far better equipped bad actors in places as far away as North Korea and Russia. They will be shown the strategies and the techniques to take down a democratic digitized society while sitting in dark and distant villages.
Cosby, who has denied the allegation, is concerned the legal case would be the medias main focus when he toured, and therefore decided to halt any plans, representative Andrew Wyatt told TMZ.
Not to beat a dead horse, but Kimmel underscored his point by calling out the gaping hole in the logic of those who would take the ivermectin non-cure over proven preventative vaccines out of a distrust for big pharma. The veterinary drug itself, after all, is made by Merck, one of the largest firms out there  and the manufacturer itself has urged people not to use the drug for COVID.
IMDb TV, which is free to watch and owned by Amazon, snapped up the show and brought in longtime Judge Judy producers Randy Douthit and Amy Freisleben. But there is some new blood: Sheindlins granddaughter, Sarah Rose, will join the show as a legal analyst.
He was extremely witty and loving and generous. He really enjoyed life and made life so much fun for other people, she said, adding that he was regularly recognized in public but not always quickly placed.
The very private couple, who wed in 2017, didnt reveal the name or gender, but the actress did offer her thoughts on what its like being a new mom.
One of the special things about [metro Orlando] is theres so much of that going on in so many different areas, he said. Between the job creation happening in Lake Nona, businesses coming to the Lake Mary and Heathrow area, and the road projects in Apopka ... All these areas are marked by their availability of land and have their own attractive aspects.
Disney Cruise Line switched last month to require all passengers on all of its U.S.-based ships 12 and older to be fully vaccinated. Those 11 and under can sail, but must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid PCR test or lab-based PCR test taken within three days and 24 hours ahead of departure. Beginning Sept. 13, all guests will also be required to take a COVID-19 test at the terminal before boarding.
COVID-19 patients in AdventHealths ICUs have dropped 25 to 30%, said Oliveira. Inside the ICU, 35% to 45% of the patients on ventilators still die, Oliveira said. This is a slightly higher rate of death than he saw in past waves. A study led by Oliveira, published in PLOS ONE in March 2021, concluded that about one out of five of AdventHealths COVID-19 intensive care unit patients died from March to May 2020, and about one out of four who needed mechanical ventilation died.
Im just blown away at people who say we shouldnt get vaccinated because there is some far off risk of getting a reaction to it, said Commissioner Marty Sullivan. We have lost almost as many people to coronavirus, for which we have a vaccine, as people that were lost in the 1918 [Spanish] flu, for which there was none.
To think that two Reserve Soldiers would perpetrate such brazen acts of fraud is beyond belief, said Director of the Criminal Investigation Commands Major Procurement Fraud Unit, Frank Robey. However, for these two, greed was more important than being faithful to the trust put in them by our government, and it was their undoing. They will be held fully responsible for the acts of fraud they committed.
Federal prosecutors lost contact with Pierce after Aug. 23, when he appeared at a hearing for another client facing charges in the Capitol riot, according to a prior court filing. Pierces colleague Ryan Marshall  who is not a licensed attorney and is facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania  showed up on Pierces behalf in at least two of his cases, first telling prosecutors Pierce had a conflict, then saying the attorney had been in an accident and was headed to the hospital.
In the review of this case that was closed by a previous administration, the State Attorney delegated the Executive Team to review all the case material, including the videos of the critical incident, the statement said. The only reason left for the State Attorney personally watching the video in this case would be to invoke an emotional response, not to provide any additional information. It is the responsibility of the State Attorney to make decisions that are founded in law and on facts, not based on emotion.
Kornegay proposed the board adopt a mandate  with a medical exemption, not a parental opt-out  for schools in the red, or at the 5% threshold. The board deleted that proposal, however, in part because the legal standing of school mask mandates remains uncertain in Florida as some school boards and parents battle Gov. Ron DeSantis over his ban on such mandates.
The state has withheld some money  the monthly equivalent to the salaries of school board members who voted for the mandate  from the Alachua and Broward county school districts, the first two to adopt mandates. It has threatened to do the same to Orange and others. For Orange, that could mean a loss of about $31,182 a month.
Prosecutors have not provided James Stote with any kind of immunity for any possible criminal conduct, spokeswoman Paula McMahon said. Its not appropriate for us to speculate about potential charges in any investigation, including this one. Prosecutors will make any appropriate comments about the case in the courtroom as the case proceeds through the justice system.
One could argue that, but for the strenuous actions over two decades by local political and business leadership to diversify our economy, that figure would have been even [higher], said Hank Fishkind, an Orlando economic consultant with more than 30 years experience. Nevertheless, to the question, Were we able with great effort to significantly diversify the areas economy? The answer is no. You can see it in the data.
The nonprofit, Grow United Inc., which is based out of a UPS Store in Denver, provided more than half a million dollars last fall that Republican strategists used to advertise little-known independent candidates who did no campaigning of their own in three key Senate elections  one in Central Florida and two in South Florida. The ads appeared designed to appeal to voters who might otherwise have voted for the Democrats in the three races, all of which were ultimately won by Republicans, helping the GOP retain control of the 40-member Florida Senate.
People who are vaccinated can get COVID, and they can spread the disease. But studies have found that vaccinated people carry less virus and can be infectious for a shorter period of time. That makes a difference not only in the spread of disease but in the impact on society.
FEMA will soon decide whether to make that mistake or instead invest in better alternatives. Solar panels can be installed on rooftops across the island, bringing sources of power right to where people use it so that no one is dependent on unreliable long-distance lines. The only people I know who didnt lose power during Hurricane Maria were those with solar, which is why I installed it on my own roof.
The willfully ignorant deceit of Volusia Councilman Fred Lowry to his Baptist churchgoers, to whom he said, We did not have a pandemic, folks. We were lied to, together with his own COVID-19 vaccine refusal before becoming infected (Volusia Councilman Lowry, promoter of conspiracy theories, catches COVID-19, Sept. 8), has endangered hundreds of lives. Coupled with any number of other outlandish far-right beliefs, it creates a crisis of compassion, if not outrage, for many of us around the country.
There is a difference between a peaceful protest and a riot, and Floridians do not want to see the mayhem and violence associated with riots in their communities, DeSantis spokeswoman Christina Pushaw stated in an email. We will immediately file an appeal, where we are confident that the 11th Circuit will correctly apply the law and uphold HB 1 to ensure Floridas law enforcement agencies have the tools necessary to combat riots and keep Floridians safe.
Yet Fried has continued to slam DeSantis handling of the pandemic, including on Tuesday when she panned his assertion that the decision to get a vaccine or not is a personal choice that doesnt hurt me or anyone else and his comment that breakthrough cases among those who have been vaccinated are common.
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Moscow court orders seizure of former minister's $22 mln property

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

10:48 09/09/2021

MOSCOW, September 9 (RAPSI)  Moscow's Gagarinsky District Court has ordered that a $22 million property owned by former government minister Mikhail Abyzov be seized, the press service of the court told RAPSI.

The court also ruled to collect from Alfa-Bank about $31 million and about 5,6 billion rubles (near $76 million at the current exchange rate), according to the statement.

In turn, representatives of Alfa-Bank announced their intention to appeal the court decision. According to them, Alfa-Bank does not understand the essence of the claims.

Alfa-Bank believes that the claims against the bank are unreasonable. Earlier, the prosecutor's office pointed to "signs of an antisocial deal." However, the bank's actions, on the contrary, were of a purely social nature. First of all, the credit institution defended the interests of its depositors, including millions of ordinary Russian citizens. All actions of the bank were aimed at ensuring the principle of repayment of issued loans and strict fulfillment by the bank of its obligations to depositors, the press service of Alfa-Bank told RAPSI.

This May, the Moscow City Court ruled in favor of the Russian Prosecutor General's Office, which sought that over 32.5 billion rubles ($435 million at the current exchange rate) worth of funds owned by Mikhail Abyzov were forfeited to the State.

In October 2020, Moscow's Gagarinsky District Court ruled to seize 32.5 billion rubles jointly and severally from Abyzov and a number of companies.

According to investigators, Abyzov, being the beneficial owner of a number of offshore commercial organizations, created and headed a criminal community: acting in complicity with other persons, he fraudulently stole funds in the amount of 4 billion rubles ($54 million) from Sibirskaya Energeticheskaya Kompaniya and Regionalnye Elektricheskiye Seti. Later, the embezzled funds were moved overseas.

The fact of the legalization of funds by Abyzov and other defendants was established thanks to effective interaction with Russian finance watchdog Rosfinmonitoring and with the assistance of the competent authorities of the Republic of Cyprus, as the Investigative Committee had informed earlier.
YouTuber to stand trial for alleged spreading misinformation about COVID-19 vaccine

 Moskva city news agency, Igor Ivanko

16:05 09/09/2021

MOSCOW, September 9 (RAPSI)  Anton Myslivets, owner of a channel on YouTube and VKontakte social network, will face trial for alleged spreading misinformation about COVID-19 vaccine, press service of the Prosecutor General's Office told RAPSI.

Myslivets launched the channel to spread false information on scientific and socio-political issues, that was presented as reliable, the statement reads.

He participated in the production of a video saying that vaccine against the coronavirus was allegedly developed to reduce the population of Russia, and its use has a lethal effect.

Myslivets created a real threat of forming a negative attitude among the population towards the measures taken to prevent, treat and counter the spread of the coronavirus infection, and also encouraged dangerous actions in the form of refusal of necessary medical care, prosecutors say.
Russian government extends moratorium on inspections of small businesses

 government.ru

13:26 09/09/2021

MOSCOW, September 9 (RAPSI)  Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has signed a decree extending a moratorium on scheduled inspections of small businesses.

The decision was made following a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and representatives of United Russia political party on August 22, where the head of state spoke in favor of extending this measure.

The Cabinet of Ministers notes that the extended moratorium will affect about 100,000 small businesses. Nevertheless, measure is not to apply to facilities that may pose a potential danger to human life, organizations operating on the basis of licenses, and enterprises using nuclear energy.

The moratorium will relieve businesses from unnecessary burden, will allow companies not to be distracted by inspections and recover faster, Mishustin said at a government meeting on Thursday.
Justice Ministry, human rights commissioner to monitor rights of prisoners together

17:46 09/09/2021

MOSCOW, September 9 (RAPSI)  Minister of Justice Konstantin Chuychenko and Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova have signed an agreement on the implementation of public control over the observance of human rights and freedoms in prisons and pre-trial detention centers.

As part of the signed agreement, the parties agreed to cooperate in improving the current legislation, including observance of human and civil rights and freedoms in correctional institutions and pre-trial detention centers of the penal system of the Russian Federation, the ministry said in a statement.

In addition, interdepartmental cooperation will include joint work in such areas as strengthening interaction with non-profit organizations and implementation of legal education on the forms and methods of protecting human and civil rights and freedoms.




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The European health regulatory body has listed Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) -- a neurological disorder -- as a "very rare" side effect of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, known as Covishield in India.

GBS is a serious nerve inflammation, which may cause temporary loss of feeling and movement (paralysis) and difficulty in breathing.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), in a new update on Wednesday shared that a causal relationship between AstraZeneca vaccine and GBS was "considered at least a reasonable possibility".

Therefore, the condition should be "added to the product information as a side effect".

"The frequency category allocated is 'very rare' (that is, occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 persons), which is the category of the lowest frequency foreseen in EU product information," the EMA said in the update.

The incidence of the side effect remains extremely rare, with only 833 cases reported worldwide from about 592 million administered doses of the adenovirus-based AstraZeneca vaccine, as of July 25.

Reported cases concern suspected side effects, i.e. medical events that have been observed after vaccination, but which are not necessarily related to or caused by the vaccine, the regulatory body said.

The EMA further recommended that patients must talk to their healthcare professionals before taking AstraZeneca vaccine, if they previously had GBS after being given the vaccine.

It added that people should seek immediate medical attention if they develop weakness and paralysis in the extremities that can progress to the chest and face.

A study, published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Annals of Neurology in June, described an unusual variant of Guillain-Barre syndrome characterised by prominent facial weakness in seven cases from a regional medical center in Kerala, India. The cases occurred within two weeks of the first dose of vaccination.

"Six out of the seven patients progressed to areflexic quadriplegia and required mechanical ventilatory support," said Boby Varkey Maramattom, from the Department of Neurology, Aster Medcity, Kochi, Kerala.

"The frequency of GBS was 1.4 to 10 fold higher than that expected in this period for a population of this magnitude. In addition, the frequency of bilateral facial weakness, which typically occurs in less than 20 per cent of GBS cases, suggests a pattern associated with the vaccination," he added.

While the benefits of vaccination substantially outweigh the risk of this relatively rare outcome, the researchers stressed that clinicians should be alert to this possible adverse event and look for this rare neurological syndrome following administration of Covid-19 vaccines.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine against Covid, developed using the same technology as AstraZeneca, was also listed for GBS recently.

The EMA has also included pain in legs and arms or stomach and influenza-like symptoms in the product information as side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
The agitating farmers at the mini-secretariat in Karnal seem to be digging in as they have started converting their temporary camps into a 'Pucca Morcha' (permanent protest) after the administration refused to accept any of their demands.

Showing solidarity, several organisations have started 'Langar Seva' at the protest sites to help the farmers, while local residents are also contributing their bit. A makeshift dispensary with first aid services and one ambulance have also come up at the protest site.

"We have come here with a team of four doctors to take care of the farmers' medical requirements. We are setting up four makeshift dispensaries here," Swasima Singh from the Five Rivers Heart Asociation told IANS.

The Municipality Corparation has set up four movable toilets at the site, while eight water tankers and a total of 42 cleaners have also been deployed.

Meanwhile, more farmers are coming to the site to join the agitation. Despite the agitating farmers having to spend their night on carpets, they are happy as the union leadership has decided to continue the protest.

The protesters also include a good number of women participants, who are raising slogans against the administration.
A day after the central government hiked MSP of wheat and other agricultural produce, the Congress has said it is nothing but a cruel joke.

Congress spokesperson Jaiveer Shergill said on Thursday, "Nation has witnessed highest fuel (lifeline of Agri sector) price hike in 75 yrs & lowest MSP hike for wheat in 12 years -- BJP only believes in 'snatching away' & not supporting the farmers -- Current MSP hike is a cruel joke on farmers already paying the price of anti-farmer BJP Govt."

Congress Chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala too hit out at the government and said the hike is nothing compared to the increase in input cost of the produce.

He said there is only 1.75 per cent hike in the MSP of sugarcane while that of wheat has been increased by only 2 per cent and other items are less than 10 per cent. The price of diesel, pesticides and fertilizers and other items have increased by several times, he said.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday approved the increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all mandated Rabi crops for Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2022-23 with an aim to realigning the MSPs in favour of oilseeds, pulses, and coarse cereals over wheat.

This has been done to encourage farmers to shift to a larger area for these crops and adopt best technologies and farm practices, to correct demand-supply imbalance, a Cabinet communique said.

The government has increased the MSP of Rabi crops for RMS 2022-23, to ensure remunerative prices to the growers for their produce. The highest absolute increase in MSP over the previous year has been recommended for lentil (masur) and rapeseeds and mustard (Rs 400 per quintal each) followed by gram (Rs 130 per quintal).

The differential remuneration is aimed at encouraging crop diversification.

For wheat, there has been an increase of Rs 40 per quintal while for barley, it is Rs 35 per quintal, over the last year.

The MSP for RMS 2022-23 for wheat has been announced as Rs 2,015 per quintal considering the cost of production for 2022-23 as Rs 1,008, for barley, it is Rs 1,635 against Rs 1,019, MSP for gram has been announced as Rs 5,230 against the cost of production of Rs 3,004, for lentil, it is Rs 5,500 against Rs 3,079, for rapeseed and mustard at Rs 5,050 against Rs 2,523 and the MSP for safflower has been announced as Rs 5,441 against the cost of production of Rs 3,627.
The genomic sequencing report submitted to the Karnataka government has suggested that SARS-CoV-2 virus is changing and currently the Delta and sub-lineages of Delta are spreading across Bengaluru Urban and picking up new mutations.

The report said, of these mutations, N439 mutant has already exihibited potential to increase the fitness of the virus.

The report cautioned: "We need to monitor any increase in the frequency of these mutations. As that might be a signal for a new variant, which may not be covered by the protection from vaccines," the report quoted in bold letters.

This report comes ahead of a similar report of results of 300 samples sent for genomic sequencing is expected to be released soon and discussed by the Committee for Covid-19 Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) which is to meet on Thursday for discussing the findings.

Strand Precision Medicine Sciences, a genomics-based research and diagnostics company mandated to conduct genomic sequencing by the Karnataka government to help detect trends in mutations has submitted its report to the health ministry on September 1.

The report has also been sent to the Karnataka Covid Task Force, Chairman of Genomic Surveillance Committee, Karnataka; Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner and health commissioner, BBMP.

Samples processed include 34 sequences from children, 28 sequences from vaccinated individuals, partial as well as fully vaccinated and 6 fully vaccinated individuals. The investigations were conducted on 298 complete sequences.

The outputs suggested the identification of four lineages and all are delta or sub-lineages of delta. The report also said, three lineages, Delta and two sub-lineages of Delta AY.4 and AY.12 were found across Bengaluru Urban and in all groups.

The report also spoke about new mutations. "This sequencing showed 133 mutations in spike protein alone. Many of these are known mutations," the report said.

"We found several new mutations at low frequency (>0.3percent<4.5percent) in the spike protein in the 439-446 positions, in Delta, AY.4 and AY.12. Some of these are novel and not yet reported in global databases," the report mentioned.

N439K mutant found in 7 sequences, N440Y/T/F mutant in 8 sequences, L441Y/S/G/A/C/D/V found in 7 sequences, D4421/V/Y/F in 9 sequences, S443E/V/Y/W/F in 7 sequences, K444F/N/V/T/S/V mutants found in 7 sequences.

However, experts opine that Genomic sequencing results are not a cause for worry as most samples collected from persons who were being treated at home.

Strand Precision Medicine Solutions was tasked with the responsibility of study of mutations through genome sequencing by the Covid Task Force in Karnataka. The sequencing indicated 30 percent mutation in the Delta AY.4 variant and 3 percent in AY.12 mutant.

Total 298 swabs were collected from Covid-19 patients in Bengaluru for genomic sequencing also showed that Delta and its sub-lineages AY4 & A12 were found to be dominant across the age groups in Bengaluru.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal returned to the national capital after attending a 10-day vipassana camp in Jaipur.

Kejriwal finished his session on Wednesday. The other meditation practitioners present there clicked their pictures with the Delhi CM as he came out.

As he left the camp, Kejriwal was seen taking out some money from his pocket which he donated at the centre.

He was off-mobile, -TV, -newspaper and -laptop facilities during these 10 days and meditated in the vipassana centre.

The Delhi CM left for the airport straight from the vipassana centre.
The supreme leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada will lead the new Taliban government in the war-torn country, the group has announced.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that the group will reject foreigners' intervention over the name and structure of the next government, reports TOLO News.

"We will not allow anyone to interfere in Afghanistan's affairs. The government name, its type, and form belong to the Afghans and they will decide," Mujahid said.

The Taliban also said the new government is the "Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan".

"The new government in Afghanistan has officially started its work under the name of Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan," said Anaamullah Samangani, a member of the Taliban's cultural commission.

Thursday's development comes after the Taliban on Tuesday night announced the formation of Afghanistan's caretaker government.

Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund has been appointed as the Acting Prime Minister, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Abdul Salam Hanafi were named Acting Deputy Prime Ministers, while Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, son of Mullah Omar, was appointed as Acting Defense Minister.

Amir Khan Muttaqi has been appointed as Acting Foreign Minister, and Sarajuddin Haqqani, son of the founder of the Haqqani Network terror group, was named Acting Interior Minister.

According to the Taliban, the appointments were not final as these were acting positions, and the remaining posts would be announced later.
Chamber announces Ham Fest Breakfast canceled

Trigg County Chamber of Commerce officials in Cadiz, Kentucky, have announced that due to rising COVID cases in the county, the annual Ham Festival Breakfast has been canceled.

Chamber Membership Director Beth Sumner told the News Edge Wednesday afternoon the decision was made to cancel the breakfast because they feel its best under the circumstances but adds they will still host the Ham Festival recognition ceremony.

She adds it was important for them to be proactive to cancel the breakfast.

Sumner is encouraging the public to attend the recognition ceremony on October 7th in downtown Cadiz.

Despite the cancellation of the breakfast, the 2021 Country Ham Festival is still a go. Cadiz Mayor Todd King said at Tuesday nights city council meeting that if they were to cancel the Ham Festival, the decision would happen in the next two weeks.

The Ham Festival is set for Friday, October 8 and Saturday, October 9th.

The first ham festival was held in 1977 and was the brainchild of the Trigg County Extension Office. Despite rain hampering past festivals, 2020 marked the first time the entire festival was canceled which was due the COVID-19 pandemic.

https://www.wkdzradio.com/2021/09/08/chamber-announces-ham-fest-breakfast-canceled/news-edge/
Paul Kagame has ruled Rwanda since 1994, first as vice president and minister of defense and then since 2000 as the president. Under Kagame, democratic norms have been flouted within Rwanda, while Rwandan troops have operated ruthlessly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

by Vijay Prashad

On July 9, 2021, the government of Rwanda said that it had deployed 1,000 troops to Mozambique to battle al-Shabaab fighters, who had seized the northern province of Cabo Delgado. A month later, on August 8, Rwandan troops captured the port city of Mocimboa da Praia, where just off the coast sits a massive natural gas concession held by the French energy company TotalEnergies SE and the U.S. energy company ExxonMobil. These new developments in the region led to the African Development Banks President M. Akinwumi Adesina announcing on August 27 that TotalEnergies SE will restart the Cabo Delgado liquefied natural gas project by the end of 2022.

Militants from al-Shabaab (or ISIS-Mozambique, as the U.S. State Department prefers to call it) did not fight to the last man; they disappeared across the border into Tanzania or into their villages in the hinterland. The energy companies will, meanwhile, soon start to recoup their investments and profit handsomely, thanks in large part to the Rwandan military intervention.

Why did Rwanda intervene in Mozambique in July 2021 to defend, essentially, two major energy companies? The answer lies in a very peculiar set of events that took place in the months before the troops left Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda.

Billions Stuck Underwater

Al-Shabaab fighters first made their appearance in Cabo Delgado in October 2017. For three years, the group played a cat-and-mouse game with Mozambiques army before taking control of Mocimboa da Praia in August 2020. At no point did it seem possible for Mozambiques army to thwart al-Shabaab and allow TotalEnergies SE and ExxonMobil to restart operations in the Rovuma Basin, off the coast of northern Mozambique, where a massive natural gas field was discovered in February 2010.

The Mozambican Ministry of Interior had hired a range of mercenaries such as Dyck Advisory Group (South Africa), Frontier Services Group (Hong Kong), and the Wagner Group (Russia). In late August 2020, TotalEnergies SE and the government of Mozambique signed an agreement to create a joint security force to defend the companys investments against al-Shabaab. None of these armed groups succeeded. The investments were stuck underwater.

Paul Kagame has ruled Rwanda since 1994

At this point, Mozambiques President Filipe Nyusi indicated, as I was told by a source in Maputo, that TotalEnergies SE might ask the French government to send a detachment to assist in securing the area. This discussion went on into 2021. On January 18, 2021, French Defense Minister Florence Parly and her counterpart in Portugal, Joao Gomes Cravinho, talked on the phone, during whichit is suggested in Maputothey discussed the possibility of a Western intervention in Cabo Delgado. On that day, TotalEnergies SE CEO Patrick Pouyanne met with President Nyusi and his ministers of defense (Jaime Bessa Neto) and interior (Amade Miquidade) to discuss the joint action plan to strengthen security of the area. Nothing came of it. The French government was not interested in a direct intervention.

A senior official in Maputo told me that it is strongly believed in Mozambique that French President Emmanuel Macron suggested the Rwandan force, rather than French forces, be deployed to secure Cabo Delgado. Indeed, Rwandas armieshighly trained, well-armed by the Western countries, and given impunity to act outside the bounds of international lawhave proved their mettle in the interventions carried out in South Sudan and the Central African Republic.

What Kagame Got for the Intervention

Paul Kagame has ruled Rwanda since 1994, first as vice president and minister of defense and then since 2000 as the president. Under Kagame, democratic norms have been flouted within Rwanda, while Rwandan troops have operated ruthlessly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A 2010 UN Mapping Project report on serious human rights violations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo showed that the Rwandan troops killed hundreds of thousands if not millions of Congolese civilians and Rwandan refugees between 1993 and 2003. Kagame rejected the UN report, suggesting that this double genocide theory denied the Rwandan genocide of 1994. He has wanted the French to accept responsibility for the genocide of 1994 and has hoped that the international community will ignore the massacres in the eastern Congo.

On March 26, 2021, historian Vincent Duclert submitted a 992-page report on Frances role in the Rwandan genocide. The report makes it clear that France should acceptas Medecins Sans Frontieres put itoverwhelming responsibility for the genocide. But the report does not say that the French state was complicit in the violence. Duclert traveled to Kigali on April 9 to deliver the report in person to Kagame, who said that the reports publication marks an important step toward a common understanding of what took place.

On April 19, the Rwandan government released a report that it had commissioned from the U.S. law firm Levy Firestone Muse. This reports title says it all: A Foreseeable Genocide: The Role of the French Government in Connection with the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The French did not deny the strong words in this document, which argues that France armed the genocidaires and then hastened to protect them from international scrutiny. Macron, who has been loath to accept Frances brutality in the Algerian liberation war, did not dispute Kagames version of history. This was a price he was willing to pay.

What France Wants

On April 28, 2021, Mozambiques President Nyusi visited Kagame in Rwanda. Nyusi told Mozambiques news broadcasters that he had come to learn about Rwandas interventions in the Central African Republic and to ascertain Rwandas willingness to assist Mozambique in Cabo Delgado.

On May 18, Macron hosted a summit in Paris, seeking to boost financing in Africa amid the COVID-19 pandemic, which was attended by several heads of government, including Kagame and Nyusi, the president of the African Union (Moussa Faki Mahamat), the president of the African Development Bank (Akinwumi Adesina), the president of the West African Development Bank (Serge Ekue), and the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (Kristalina Georgieva). Exit from financial asphyxiation was at the top of the agenda, although in private meetings there were discussions about Rwandan intervention in Mozambique.

A week later, Macron left for a visit to Rwanda and South Africa, spending two days (May 26 and 27) in Kigali. He repeated the broad findings of the Duclert report, brought along 100,000 COVID-19 vaccines to Rwanda (where only around 4 percent of the population had received the first dose by the time of his visit), and spent time in private talking to Kagame. On May 28, alongside South Africas President Cyril Ramaphosa, Macron talked about Mozambique, saying that France was prepared to take part in operations on the maritime side, but would otherwise defer to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and to other regional powers. He did not mention Rwanda specifically.

Rwanda entered Mozambique in July, followed by SADC forces, which included South African troops. France got what it wanted: Its energy giant can now recoup its investment.

This article was produced by Globetrotter.

Vijay Prashad is an Indian historian, editor and journalist. He is a writing fellow and chief correspondent at Globetrotter. He is the director of Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research. He is a senior non-resident fellow at Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, Renmin University of China. He has written more than 20 books, including The Darker Nations and The Poorer Nations. His latest book is Washington Bullets, with an introduction by Evo Morales Ayma.
St. Louis Police Chief John Hayden speaks at a press conference on Wed., Sept 8, 2021, announcing his retirement from the department set for February of 2022. At left, on the steps of St. Louis City Hall, is interim Public Safety Director Dan Isom.
An Arizona-based startup company sought to take advantage of the growing recognition of wind turbines as an a green power source raised$1.9 million by promising its technology could generate power for a "tiny fraction" of the cost to produce any other form of power, according to the Securities and Exchange Commission. All three of the company's top executives must repay "ill-gotten gains" under permanent injunctions obtained by the SEC. (Teun van den Dries // Shutterstock)
Why: 15 violations (seven high-priority), led by 27 live flies landing on dirty dishes, on various clean plates and rolling cart, on a bag of croutons, on a bottle of caramel syrup, on a sealed bin of plantain chips and on a clean hanging pot in rear kitchen area. Inspectors spotted a pair of pest-control snafus in the kitchen, including fly sticky tape hanging over food preparation area and a faulty device causing an accumulation of dead flies stuck to wall above and around bug zapper. Inspectors told the operator to replace its fly tape and clear out dead or trapped birds, insects, rodents, or other pests inside pest-control devices. Inspectors also ordered Las Vegas to stop selling and throw away its sliced ham and cheese for medianoche sandwiches, chicken noodle soup and cooked lamb due to temperature abuse. The state allowed Las Vegas to reopen Sept. 2 after discovering three minor issues.
We dont have $2 million sitting on the table right now to fund it, he said. It would be nice to have more people working. But its not necessary in order to keep our city safe. The police department could say the same thing.
According to police, video shows two men entering the Extra Space Storage facility, at 1440 S. Dixie Highway near Wiley Street, with a crowbar and two others later entering through the same door. They were also seen carrying a ladder and tools commonly used in burglaries, authorities said.
Bullard, who has a lengthy criminal history that includes arrests for robbery, grand theft of a motor vehicle, trespassing, and burglary, is charged with possession of weapon or ammunition by a convicted felon and a probation violation. Hes being held at the Joseph V. Conte Facility on a $2,500 bond.
Franklin Hartley, 41, through his lawyer, told Broward Circuit Judge Michael Usan that he was not willing to accept a criminal conviction and lose the ability to clear his name because he took a plea. His position is that he did not commit this crime, and he decided that going to trial is preferable to taking a plea and getting it over with, said Hartleys lawyer, Michael Gottlieb, in an interview outside the courtroom.
Video sent to CBS12 News from a viewer shows flames shooting into the air as rescue crews roll to the scene.
The task force has spent the past five years targeting offenders of Floridas patient-brokering law. It is a crime for anyone to offer or pay any commission, kickback, or bribe to promote the referral of patients to or from a health care provider. Authorities have made 120 arrests, resulting in more than 80 convictions so far.
In this case, Books attorney said there was considerable doubt that his client was drunk at the accident scene. Book suffered from medical conditions that explained his inability to pass a field sobriety test, and he didnt need to take a breath test because there was no reasonable cause to suspect he was drunk, said defense lawyer David Bogenschutz.
A couple of National Police officers from Madrid, who were holidaying with their family in Torremolinos, have helped save the life of an elderly man who was spotted lying at the bottom of a hotel swimming pool.

With the help of another guest, they pulled the victim out of the pool and began resuscitation manoeuvres until he regained consciousness and was transferred to hospital by paramedics.

The incident happened this Tuesday (7 September), at around 1.20 pm, at the Sol Don Pablo hotel in the Costa del Sol resort.

Once the man was pulled from the pool, the off-duty officers checked for the vital signs of the man, who was unconscious and a bluish colour.

Immediately they began to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on the victim.

After a few minutes, the man regained a weak pulse and began to breathe unaided, before gradually regained consciousness.

Paramedics, who arrived on the scene, congratulated the two officers for their swift action and told them that it had been decisive in saving the victim's life.

The family of the man said he is under observation in hospital and recovering favourably from the incident.
The changing winds, with gusts of up to 45 km/h, has complicated the situation with the Sierra Bermeja fire, which has already affected the municipalities of Estepona, Jubrique, Genalguacil and Benahavis, this Thursday afternoon (9 September).

Despite the efforts of hundreds of firefighters on the ground, supported by 29 aircraft - including water-dropping planes and helicopters, a section of the AP-7 motorway has been closed to traffic again, in both directions.

So far, some 600 people have been advised to leave their homes on two residential developments in Estepona and one in Benahavis, since the fire was sparked on Wednesday evening.

However, there been no reports of personal injuries and it is believed that only one abandoned property that has been affected by the fire.

Extra support to tackle the blaze has been called in from Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Jaen and Seville, as well as the firefighting teams from Malaga province.

The fire started at 9.37pm on Wednesday in two different zones, which opens up the possibility that it was started intentionally, something that the specialists from the Forest Fire Investigation Brigade (BIF) and the Seprona nature protection service of the Guardia Civil are already looking into

The affected area / SUR

The Infoca forest fire brigade has pointed out that the terrain is difficult to work on, it has very steep slopes and a strong west wind is blowing in the area that is making fire-fighting tasks difficult.
Spain's coastguard service rescued three people who were found drifting in a dinghy off the coast of Malaga on Wednesday evening, 8 September.

Salvamento Maritimo sources said the boat was spotted in waters southeast of the city, and and one of their crews was mobilised.

The Salvamar Vega rescue vessel intercepted the dinghy at around 7pm, picking up three people, all men of Maghreb origin, and transferred them to the Port of Malaga.
Texas A&M CAPS held their fifth annual Suicide Awareness Walk during National Suicide Prevention week on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 7 p.m. in Rudder Plaza.
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Marvel's latest release, "Shang-Chi" was released in theaters for viewing on Friday, Sept. 3 and is expected to be released on Disney+ on Oct. 17.
With the anniversary of 9/11 approaching, The Battalion's Editorial Staff honors and recognizes those who lost their lives 20 years ago.
if the people of Biafra want Republic of Biafra, it will be a reality during my administration. ----Donald Trump Donald Trump I wi...
MBABANE  Businesses should start benefitting from the Reconstruction Fund next month.

This past Monday, His Majesty King Mswati III officially launched the Reconstruction Fund with contributions amounting to approximately E1 billion. The Fund is an intervention aimed at supporting all those who were affected during the civil unrest in June this year. Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade (CIT) Manqoba Khumalo, speaking on national radio yesterday, confirmed the said processes that include screening of qualifying businesses and said it would soon get underway. Applications for assistance are to be made through the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) while EswatiniBank is said to be the administrator of the Fund.

EswatiniBank is the only 100-per cent owned local bank and it also administers the E45 million Revolving Fund that was established to cushion small businesses from the effects of COVID-19. All applications should be in by tomorrow. The link for applications for businesses is https://ee.humanitarianresponse.info/x/K9GbqOdx. The minister said there would a screening process once all the requests had trickled in. There would be professionals to do the assessments even at businesses that have already been reconstructed so that the owners can be compensated for the expenses of rebuilding as well. The claims to the bank would be based on the information registered with the CIT ministry and NDMA.

processes

We target to finish all the processes by the end of September so that by the beginning of October (next month), we can start making payments, said the minister. For a start, priority, according to the minister, would be buildings, property and equipment. In essence, informal traders would have to wait longer before they could be compensated. He said the traders would know at a later stage on how they would go about making claims for the losses. Some informal traders had their wares looted during the protests. Government cant guarantee that the businesses would get full compensation at this stage, as it would depend on the number of requests, said the minister. Minister Khumalo said it was their wish for the fund to be sustained so that it could work as an emergency tool like in other countries.

contribution

Meanwhile, The fund received a E500 million start-up injection from government. At its launch this week, it received a contribution from Taiwan worth E330 million as well as from a number of local businesses including EswatiniBank, Public Service Pension Fund, Eswatini Royal Insurance Corporation (ESRIC), Eswatini Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (EPTC), Montigny, Dalcrue and Standard Bank. Other contributions were from Happy Valley, Status Capital, Swaziland Building Society (SBS), Stanlib, Sugar Industry, Balondolozi Asset Managers, Tibiyo Taka Ngwane, Letshego Financial Services, MTN Eswatini, Eswatini Electricity Company, Eswatini Development Finance Corporation (FINCORP), Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF), Inhlonhla Asset Managers and Eswatini Water Services Corporation (EWSC).

damages

Businessman Lincoln Motsa from Linac Investments, who operates retail stores operating under the OK Foods banner, was one of those who suffered extensive damages after more than half a dozen businesses were destroyed. He said the fund was most welcome by the business community. It will revive businesses and help us provide much needed employment to our fellow citizens. The recent riots left a lot of emaSwati without jobs. We now have belief and hope, he said.
MLIBA  Three police officers were supposedly part of a mob that attacked a man at Mliba Police Station and later burnt his homestead.

According to impeccable sources, last week Tuesday, residents of Mliba inclusive of the three police officers, allegedly formed a mob and attacked *Musa following an allegation that he had a hand in the death of a taxi man. The taxi man, Glen Dlamini, who was operating at Mliba Village, was allegedly hired by a young man on August 28, 2021 while at his workstation. The source claimed that along the way, which was to an unknown destination, the client supposedly informed the deceased to pick up two of his friends. When the said friends boarded the car, said to be a Toyota RunX, Dlamini realised that he knew one of them. The person he knew, it was reported, was someone whom they had a quarrel with, leading to seeking remedy to their quarrel through the courts. Dlamini was stabbed and later shot before being set alight inside his car in a forest at Njojane, under Hlane Constituency in the Lubombo Region.

Subsequent to this, it was said the police arrested two teenagers, aged 17 and 19 years old. According to impeccable sources, one of the suspects was Musas child and the community members alleged that he had a hand in the demise of Dlamini. Following these alleagations, it was gathered that the three police officers and the other residents converged at Musas homestead and were supposedly violent. Seeing what was happening, it was gathered that one of the neighbours contacted the Mliba Police Station, which resulted in police arriving at the scene. It was gathered that a senior police officer was able to temporarily calm the situation and later transported Musa from a secluded location to the police station in order to protect him.

Disappeared

Impeccable sources claimed that after the mob had noticed that Musa had disappeared, they purportedly informed his family members that they should contact him and relay that if he did not vacate the area by abandoning his homestead, it would be burnt to the ground. On the other hand, the disappearance of Musa was said to have not yielded any positive result as it drew the ire of the mob and led to them walking to the police station, which is about six kilometres from Musas homestead. Upon arrival at the police station, it was said the mob, inclusive of the three police officers, demanded to see Musa. Again, it was said the senior police officer, after evaluating the situation on the ground, permitted five people to engage Musa inside the police station. It was claimed that the five residents, who included the three police officers, were frisked before being let into the police station to engage Musa.

During the engagement, according to impeccable sources, the residents informed Musa to vacate his homestead with his family as they were no longer happy with his stay. Thereafter, it was later claimed that the residents left the police station and two hours later, the police released Musa as he had not been charged. He was released with the assumption that he was safe and there was nowhere he could be kept as he had not been arrested, said a source. However, while en route to his residence, Musa was said to have been attacked by the residents again. This time, it was said they beat him up and he fled again to the police station. Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati confirmed that an enquiry was opened following the attack on the resident. Vilakati said they had also received allegations that among the mob were police officers. She said they were still investigating.
MBABANE  Blocking of trade is terrorism against the economy and jobs.

This was a statement made by the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo, as the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) confirmed that it was going ahead with the intended border blockade today in three ports of entry linking SA and Eswatini. Khumalo was asked on whether his ministry had put in place a contingency plan to avoid frustration by the business community, following the planned border blockades to take place at Oshoek, Matsamo and Lavumisa. COSATU is expected to lead the blockades which will run concurrently, starting at 10am to noon. Activities expected to take place include mini picketing, rallies and motorcades. Blockades form part of the campaigns for the intensification and to advocate for the emancipation of emaSwati.

Terrorism

Minister Khumalo stated that they viewed the blockades as terrorism against the economy and jobs which had been started by different groups running a campaign against the economy in different ways. Khumalo said the country would focus on this going forward, adding that they were rejecting it and would make sure they defended such from happening. He said what was scheduled to be done by COSATU was unlawful and would affect jobs and their members who would also be disadvantaged by their actions. According to Khumalo, His Majesty King Mswati III made it clear during his speech delivered on Independence Day, when the Reconstruction Fund was launched, that there would be dialogue. We do not understand what is happening now. They must allow us to conduct the process of dialogue, he said in an interview.

Khumalo stated that there was no specific contingency plan that had been put in place except for the fact that when anything against the law including protest actions took place, they made sure that the law prevailed. He added that all the local ports of entry would be operational. However, he said they had no control over the South African side as they were not in charge. The minister stated that he also had a slot on the SA news channel, Newzroom Africa, where he appealed that COSATU should respect that Eswatini was a country which was governed according to its laws and could resolve issues in its own way, following the Constitution. He said it would be much against the law to conduct the blockades without having followed the Public Order Act. When reached for comment on the same issue, the Government Spokesperson, Sabelo Dlamini, said they expected an unhindered flow of trade between neighbouring countries and across the region. Dlamini had been questioned on whether government had engaged its South African counterparts to call COSATU to order regarding the planned blockades and whether there was any contingency plan on same.

Chief Police Information and Communications Officer, Superintendent Phindile Vilakati, who was asked whether they would ensure security today, stated that it was against their principles to discuss State security measures. Meanwhile, COSATU Deputy International Secretary Zanele Mathebula said the blockades would continue as planned in all the borders. Mathebula stated that the blockades would not be the end in activities marking the Eswatini Global Week of Action. The COSATU deputy international secretary stated that next week they would be holding a consolidation meeting with the outcomes of all the liberation movements they had engaged with during dialogues held this week.

She stated that they would do all in their power to force Eswatini authorities to facilitate dialogue. Mathebula stated that considering the speech of the Monarch on September 6, where he stated that emaSwati should think and behave like a First World country, this showed them that the regime was not in touch with the reality of the situation in his country. She stated that the Monarch talked about raising funds to deal with infrastructure and development in Eswatini, yet he had been doing that for the longest time and allegedly receiving money from SACU which was also allegedly topped up by SA, yet he was not even contributing towards improvement of the health system including providing quality health for his nation. Mathebula said the countrys government had not been contributing adequately to the education system as well as overall socio- economic situation.

Reaction

Further, she noted that with all these challenges, it called for a stronger reaction from the people locally and outside the borders. Mathebula said they were awaiting a mandate from the people of Eswatini on how they could move forward in assisting in every way they could in terms of seeking international assistance in order that emaSwati were granted all the demands they wanted. If it means that we conduct a boycott, we will do it and if it means that we continue with border blockades, we will do just that and if it means we call our government and others including the continent through the African Union in terms of a sanction, it will be done, she said. Mathebula said COSATU was not dictating what emaSwati should do but it was the Eswatini people who were supporting the uprising and pushing for political change, unbanning of political parties, human rights and justice, while they were behind them. She said they were supporting emaSwati because all the things they demanded were standards that were set up by international laws.
MBABANE - The Crown has filed an application to remove the affidavit of resigned police officer Cebile Cece Shongwe as part of the defences evidence in bail application of the two MPs.

The former police officer recently filed an affidavit confirming that she was allegedly informed by resigned Army Commander Jeffrey Tshabalala that MPs Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube were arrested allegedly as per the Kings instruction.

Shongwes affidavit has been attached to the MPs replying papers in the matter in which they seek to be granted bail after Judge Mumcy Dlamini dismissed their initial application.

Contention

The Crowns contention is that the applicants (Mabuza and Dube) were now seeking to bring in new evidence outside the court papers they filed when they launched their fresh bail application. In its application to strike out, the Crown stated that it wanted the court to issue an order striking out as a whole the confirmatory affidavit of Shongwe and others. In the event the court finds otherwise, the prosecution pleaded that it should be allowed to file any further affidavits rebutting the contents of Shongwes confirmatory affidavit.

The application was made before Judge Mumcy Dlamini and the defence asked that it should be given time to file its answering papers as it was opposing same. In the confirmatory affidavit, Shongwe, who is believed to have left the country upon resigning from the police service, confirms that resigned Army Commander Tshabalala informed her that the arrest of the duo was allegedly as per an instruction from the King. She further confirms that in the audio recording, which went viral on social media, the voices belong to her and Tshabalala, who was narrating to her how the initiative to arrest the two MPs came about. According to Shongwe, during the conversation with the former army commander, he overtly told her that it was the King who had directed that the two legislators should be arrested following the burning of property and looting that occurred in the country during the political unrest which also saw people being killed and injured. The veracity of these allegations is still to be tested in court.

In the audio recording, as per the confirmatory affidavit filed by Shongwe, the resigned army commander allegedly told her how the plan to have the duo arrested was hatched by the countrys authorities and how the national commissioner of police was allegedly given strict instructions by the King to arrest Mabuza, Dube and Siphofaneni Member of Parliament, Mduduzi Magawugawu Simelane.

Strike

The Crown is also seeking an order to strike out the confirmatory affidavit that was filed by Human Rights Lawyer Thulani Maseko, who is representing the applicants (Mabuza and Bacede). In the affidavit which the Crown now wants removed, Maseko submitted that on August 20, 2021, he was handed a number of statements of witnesses. I have perused them carefully and categorically state that the statements are all, in essence, of general nature, dealing with looting and damages suffered by the witnesses. Not one of these witnesses implicates the applicants (Mabuza and Dube), argued the lawyer. Maseko further highlighted that at this stage, he had not received any further statements or any evidentiary material, linking the applicants with the alleged crimes. During the pre- trial conference in August 2021, the prosecution undertook to serve us with audio and video recordings and further statements of witnesses by close of business on that day to date we have not received any, submitted Maseko. It was further his averment that the criminal case against the applicants remained weak.

Lawyer

The human rights lawyer also brought it to the attention of the court that he had a conversation with resigned police officer Cebile Cece Shongwe, who informed him about her conversation with the retired army commander. She informed me that the retired army commander told her that the arrest of the applicants was effected at the instance and instruction from His Majesty King Mswati III, who felt that the applicants were the cause of the political unrest and were undermining his authority, alleged Maseko. Further, the Crown is also seeking an order to strike out the confirmatory affidavits of Nomphumelelo Mkhonta, Phile Mabuza, Gugu Hazel Baxter, Richard Vilane and certain portions of the applicants affidavits. The Crown in this matter is represented by Principal Crown Counsel Macebo Nxumalo and Absalom Makhanya.
MANZINI  The police are offering a cash reward for information that will lead to the arrest and subsequent prosecution of people behind the burning of structures in the country.

The National Commissioner (NATCOM) of Police, William Dlamini, in a press release, said the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) was noting with deep concern and dismay the ongoing acts of sabotage being perpetrated around the country. He said the acts of sabotage were targeting various government structures, key community social services facilities such as schools, tinkhundla centres and imiphakatsi. The NATCOM said businesses also continued to bear the brunt of the debilitating and senseless acts of saboteurs. He said lately, they were witnessing the bombing of police camps and private homes of police officers.

Properties

It should concern all of us as a nation that while efforts are underway to rebuild properties damaged during the onset of the unrest that besieged the country in June, there are elements that are still hell-bent on sowing seeds of anarchy, causing more destruction and further undermining the peace and stability we have always known, said Dlamini. He said as a law enforcement agency, they condemned these barbaric and irresponsible acts of violence in the strongest terms possible, as they were a massive setback for the country. Dlamini said it was shocking and bewildering how the saboteurs had stooped so low as to target schools, which threatened the future of children and literally threw it into complete disarray.

Surely this is unacceptable!

He said as a police service, they wanted to assure the nation that they would not rest until they brought the offenders before justice so that law and order could take its normal course in the country. Dlamini said the police acknowledged that without the assistance and support of various stakeholders, inclusive of members of the public, they could not succeed in discharging their mandate. It is against this background that we appeal to the peace-loving citizens of this country to assist us with information that will lead to the arrest and subsequent prosecution of the perpetrators of the acts of sabotage. We have a cash reward for such information that will be proffered to the police, he said. The NATCOM, when sought for clarity on the exact amount of the cash reward, said: We did not state it deliberately as there are many cases where we seek assistance in. He said the value of the property destroyed also varied. Dlamini said the amount to be rewarded for valuable information shall be determined per case.

Worth noting is that property estimated to be over E3 billion was destroyed during the political unrest in the kingdom. These incidents have also continued as over the weekend, property valued over E1.2 million was burnt.

Meanwhile, the NATCOM further said as a measure to protect schools from the needless and senseless attacks, as the police they were appealing to the communities where these facilities were located, especially utilising community-based crime prevention structures such as the community police members, to continue ensuring their safety and security in partnership with the police. He said it would be remiss not to specifically flag and comment on the attack of the Matsapha Police Camp and the recent incident at Senior Superintendent Clement Sihlongonyanes homestead. It is very unfortunate that the police are now treated as enemies, which should not be the case. The police are servants of the public and are there for the protection of the nation, attacking them in the fashion we are witnessing is thus unwarranted.
MANZINI  In a twist of events, a suicide case of four years ago has now turned to be murder as police have arrested the wife to the late businessman, Bongani Dlamini.

The wife, Hlobisile Mamba of Ngololweni, stands accused of having murdered her husband in a case that was first investigated as a suicide in 2017. Police never closed the docket of the suicide case and four years later, they have made a breakthrough. Dlamini is the businessman who, on May 18, 2017, left relatives, family and friends with many questions on whether he had actually gunned himself down in a suicide, or if he was murdered. The businessman was found in his house located at Madonsa in Manzini with a gunshot wound, which it is believed caused his death. Reports at the time, were to the effect that he had shot himself in the right lower jaw. Dlamini ran restaurants and a welding and boiler-making company attached to other companies situated in the Lubombo Region.

Versions

This publication reported that versions of the businessmans death had differed among relatives and friends as there were allegations that the businessman heard weird noises from outside while at his home at 3am on May 18, 2017, and decided to walk out of the house through the bedroom he shared with his wife, Mamba. It was reported that the bedroom had a glass door and a balcony which Dlamini had used to exit, to check who the people were and what they wanted. While outside, it was reported that he was shot in the jaw and neck while checking where the noise was coming from. Another report, which the police had seemingly strongly believed at the time, was that the businessman took his firearm and shot himself just outside his bedroom door, possibly due to personal troubles that he was going through. It was suspected that the businessman had financial challenges. Having heard the gunshot, his wife came running to him, held him from the back and took him into the house. It was said he fell and became unconscious. That is when Mamba is said to have raised the alarm and police were informed that the businessman had committed suicide.

Dlamini was reportedly rushed to Mkhiwa Clinic, where he was certified dead upon arrival by a doctor. In addition, the pistol purportedly used in the incident was found and kept by the police as an exhibit. This publication reported at the time that on the contrary, other people who were close to the businessman shared that as far as they knew, he did not have personal or financial challenges which could have forced him to kill himself using his own gun. Meanwhile, fast forward to four years later, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has arrested Mamba, who is now a suspect in the murder of her husband.

Converted

The suicide inquiry file has now been converted into a murder docket. This was confirmed by Chief Police Information and Communications Officer Superintendent Phindile Vilakati. She said in the enquiry file that was initially opened in 2017, a 50-year-old man of Madonsa allegedly shot himself once in the head. Vilakati revealed that investigations carried out by the Serious Crimes Unit, popularly known as Lukhozi, had brought in new evidence which led to the arrest of the 37-year-old woman who was the wife to the deceased and she had since been charged with murder. She was 33-years-old when the incident happened.

Mamba made her appearance yesterday before Manzini Acting Principal Magistrate Sindisile Zwane. While waiting for her case to be heard, she had a serious and self-contained demeanour. Mamba would be seen looking down and then tapping her foot. Notably was that there were not relatives or friends who had come to give her moral support. When she was called into the accused dock, Mamba calmly stood and went slowly towards the dock. Meanwhile, Magistrate Zwane explained that Mambas matter was a capital case, which should be heard at the High Court. Zwane mentioned that Mamba would be remanded while awaiting bail. The matter will be heard on September 15, 2021.

Information gathered was that the enquiry file was never closed as investigations had been ongoing since 2017 when the incident took place. The sources within the police service revealed that after a post-mortem on the deceased was conducted, the investigators carried out investigations by bringing experts from different fields in a bid to conclude the matter. The sources said as the investigators were working hand-in-hand with experts, they allegedly collected pieces of evidence which they combined and resulted in the arrest of the late businessmans wife.

Evidence

In fact, the sources alleged that the pieces of evidence which were collected by the investigators from the different experts, which included the post-mortem results, led the police to believe that the late businessmans wife allegedly had a case to answer. As a result, they claimed that the police officers who were working on the matter also approached the prosecution with the evidence they had and it was convinced that the wife allegedly had a case to answer, hence her arrest. After the late businessmans wife was detained on Tuesday, the sources said she was taken to Mafutseni Police Station, where she was first asked to assist the police with information regarding the matter. Thereafter, they said she was arrested and charged with the murder of her husband. The sources claimed that the merits of the new evidence which the police had been putting together since 2017, would be presented in court when the matter is heard.

According to the charge sheet, on or about May 18, 2017, while at Madonsa in the Manzini Region, the accused person allegedly killed Dlamini, a 50-year-old man of the same area, allegedly by shooting him once in the left lower jaw, thus she is facing a murder charge. Madonsa is a suburb area, which is located on the east outskirts of the city of Manzini.



- ADDITIONAL INFORMATION BY SIBUSISO ZWANE
World leaders must unite and grab the unique opportunity presented by a post-Covid world to refocus on green goals and climate change strategies to ensure disadvantaged and vulnerable societies are not left behind.

This was the message from a high-level panel entitled Climate Action in a Post-Covid-19 Context: A Twofold Challenge, held at the inaugural Egypt - International Cooperation Forum (Egypt-ICF) which runs from September 8 to 9 in Cairo.

Addressing the panel, Selwin Charles Hart, Special Adviser and Assistant Secretary-General for Climate Action Panelists, described the world as being on a climate cliff if it fails to meet the 1.5 degrees Celsius Paris Agreement goal  but stressed that the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity to refocus green efforts.

We face this really great opportunity if we are able to address, in a comprehensive and coordinated manner, this dual crisis of climate change and Covid-19, he said. Covid-19 represents a once in a generation opportunity to do just this.

Without action, sea levels will rise, water scarcity will increase and devastating weather catastrophes, including wildfires, floods and droughts, as seen across the world in 20201, will become a more common occurrence, Hart told the Forum.

Hart urged countries to deliver on a $100 billion pledge  the annual sum needed to tackle climate change, adding that the world cannot give up hope on delivering on the Paris Agreement.

Dr Yasmine Fouad, Egypts Minister of Environment, addressed the Forum saying that the Covid-19 pandemic has placed increased strains on MEA countries, testing their social, economic, and environmental resilience.

She said climate change is not an environmental challenge. Climate change is a developmental challenge. It hits all development processes hard, she stressed. It doesnt differentiate between a rich, poor or developing country.

She highlighted Africa as a case in point, noting that despite comparably low carbon emissions, will be of the hardest-hit nations affected by climate change.

Ferid Belhaj, Vice President, Middle East and North Africa, World Bank Group, described climate change as an existential crisis for the Middle East and for Africa saying urgent action is needed before it is too late.

We need to move forward, we need to move fast, we need to move green, and we need to move now, Belhaj said. Climate change, however, is not only about safeguarding the planet for future generations but presents huge opportunities for job creation, he added.

Adding that he was encouraged by the plans and commitments taken by Egypt, Belhaj said climate change was an immense business bonanza for green growth that creates jobs, from scaling up climate-smart agriculture activities and decarbonising heavy industry and the grid with renewable energy.

With the MEA region facing a youth bulge that will need the creation of 300 million jobs, creating employment in the green sector could be the answer.

Dr Fouad urged countries to act collectively to create policies and said efforts addressing climate change should be made by the people and for the people.

Ian Bremmer, President and Founder of the Eurasia Group and GZERO Media, pointed out that the world needs to learn lessons from the Covid-19 outbreak, pointing out that less than two percent of Africa have been vaccinated against the virus. As with the pandemic, poor nations such as Africa will bear the most severe brunt of climate change, he warned.

Dr Zainab Shamsuna Ahmed, Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Nigeria, also addressed the Forum saying the world is failing to deliver on the promises of the Paris Agreement, describing it as a rolling train and doors are about to be shut.

However, Harry Boyd-Carpenter, Managing Director for Green Economy and Climate Action, EBRD, said time has not run out yet and urged global leaders to send strong signals through policy prescriptions such as setting a net zero target and to set a carbon price on emissions.

This would send a very powerful message to private sectors, businesses, and societies to switch to greener habits, he said.-- TradeArabia News Service
Startup founders undergo high levels of stress with twice the likelihood of them developing depression issues, says EMPWR, a UAE-based digital media agency dedicated to mental health, and an authority in mental health research in the region.

With only 2% of healthcare budgets in the Mena region currently spent on addressing mental health, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on young entrepreneurs and achievers could lead to an economic burden of $1 trillion, by 2030.

EMPWR, an exclusive mental health partner for Wamda and Microsoft for startups, created and published a research report on the mental health challenges and wellbeing of entrepreneurs due to Covid-19 in the Mena region.

Some 55% of startup founders said that raising investment has caused the most stress; the pandemic was the second most-cited reason, by 33.7% of respondents. 35.9% of founders rate the state of their mental health as bad, and 44.2% spend at least 2 hours a week trying to de-stress.

The report also includes a mapping of the mental health startups in Mena, a third of which were launched over this past year.

EMPWR has helped to formulate the questions for the survey, monitored the progress of the report, and led the project, along with Lara Fakih from Wamda.

EMPWR has also been instrumental in enabling the partnerships needed to generate the report  which included Labayh from the KSA; O7 Therapy from Egypt; Nafas from Oman; and My Wellbeing Lab, Takalam, Mindtales, and HAD Consultants from the UAE.

The report is the first to record data regarding the mental health and wellbeing of entrepreneurs in the region, with a specific focus on the impact of Covid-19 pandemic.

It has been fascinating to witness the impact of relationships between start-up co-founders and their companies, in the aftermath of the global pandemic, comments Ally Salama, CEO at EMPWR.

Many described their relationships with such partners and cohorts as being more like family. We found that entrepreneurs operating as a team were more likely to have a stronger sense of wellbeing, and suffer less loneliness. We have only begun to scratch the surface of this issue. Nuanced and detailed research is needed, to develop a more sophisticated understanding of this phenomenon, added Salama.

Other insights, uncovered by the report, include:

 A good relationship between co-founders can help startups navigate the pandemic-hit market. More than 95% of entrepreneurs view co-founders as family members and/or friends;

 More research is required around the pressure created by the need to achieve growth, fund-raising; as well as by the risk of failure;

 Many entrepreneurs live well below their means to fund their ventures, leading to stress that is detrimental to their health;

 Entrepreneurs are increasingly valuing their mental health more than ever, yet results show only 9.9% rate their mental health as good; and

 There is a critical need for accessible, and affordable mental health services, that cater especially to entrepreneurs.

In the past, EMPWR has worked with government entities  including the government of Canada, the Dubai Police, and the UAE government entity, Sharjah Capability Development as well as several leading corporates; to offer research related to mental health. EMPWR is also in the process of launching a culture-oriented, centralised, and comprehensive network, aimed at providing youth in the region with a peer-support and mental health resource.

This initiative will lead to the EMPWR app, and the upcoming EMPWR Hub, in an attempt to increase conversations around mental wellbeing, among young people in the region. EMPWRs extensive experience and strengths prompted market heavyweights like Microsoft and Wamda, to partner with EMPWR, to create this report on mental health and wellbeing report.

28% of the population of the Middle East is between 15 and 29 years old. Mental health issues are widespread among them but less than half are willing to seek help, due to cultural stigmas and stereotypes. Our attempt, at EMPWR, is to mainstream the conversation around the issue, so this silent epidemic, which is particularly rampant among the regions youth and entrepreneurs, can be addressed, Salama adds.-- TradeArabia News Service
AD Ports Group, the regions premier facilitator of logistics, industry, and trade, and France-based CMA CGM Group, a world leader in shipping and logistics have announced the signing of a 35-year concession agreement.

Under the terms of the agreement, a new terminal will be established in Khalifa Port, the first semi-automated container port in the GCC region, which will be managed by a joint venture owned by CMA CGMs subsidiary CMA Terminals (with a 70% stake) and AD Ports Group (30% stake). The partners are expected to commit approximately AED570 million ($154 million) to the project.

A state-of-the-art terminal

With construction starting in 2021, the new terminal is set to be handed over in 2024 with, in phase 1, an initial quay length of 800 m and an estimated annual capacity of 1.8 million TEUs. AD Ports Group will be responsible for developing a wide range of supporting marine works and infrastructure. This includes up to a total of 1,200 m of quay wall, a 3,800-m breakwater, a fully built-out rail platform, and 700,000 sq m of terminal yard.

The terminal will provide CMA CGM with a new regional hub and will enable the group to develop its service offering between Abu Dhabi and South Asia, Western Asia, East Africa, Europe and the Mediterranean as well as the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent.

With this major investment, the CMA CGM Group pushes ahead with its global expansion strategy as a leading terminal operator. The group currently operates 49 port terminals in 27 countries via its subsidiaries CMA Terminals and Terminal Link.

A hub for top shipping companies

CMA CGM Group is the third of the worlds top-four shipping entities to join forces with Abu Dhabis leading facilitator of trade, logistics and industry. The agreement confirms Khalifa Ports standing as one of only a few major ports in the world providing hubs for three of the worlds top shipping lines, as well as serving as an instrumental part of the global maritime trade connecting markets from east to west.

The UAE and Abu Dhabis central geographical location, at the center of international trade routes, enables the CMA CGM Group to implement strategic development plans, strengthening its position in the Gulf and providing the best services to meet its customers needs, the statement said.

Present in the UAE for 15 years, the CMA CGM Group employs around 450 people working within 10 offices to provide customers with the best maritime and logistics service solutions. The group connects the UAE to the world with 13 weekly services to 9 ports.

Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, said: One of the key factors that has greatly contributed to the economic growth of Abu Dhabi and the UAE has been our stable economic environment that is ripe for foreign investment. Coupled with competitive free zone and business engagement initiatives that aid foreign businesses in establishing a presence in the country with ease, the UAE has become a key investment destination among many of the worlds leading players seeking to extend their reach into the Middle East.

This landmark agreement with the CMA CGM Group is a prime example of those continued efforts and one that will significantly accelerate trade and the development of industry in the UAE and beyond.

As well as driving increased trade volumes through our port and elevating the UAEs economic development, we expect the facilitys capacity and added trade links with other high-profile port destinations will drive investment into local businesses and our industrial zones, fast-track the development of key sectors including manufacturing and logistics, and raise demand for manpower, he said.

This agreement will aid us to realise our long-term ambitions to become a top 10 ports, industrial, and logistics operator by expanding our capacity and growth across the region and beyond. In all, we project that over the next five years the CMA Terminals joint venture will drive the further development of the Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (Kizad), while simultaneously contributing significantly to the national GDP.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: The addition of a new container terminal at Khalifa Port, which will be managed by a joint venture formed in collaboration with CMA Terminals, opens a new chapter in our organisations efforts to become a key facilitator of global trade, and elevates Abu Dhabis standing as both a regional and an international hub for maritime trade.

With the addition of another leading worldwide shipping group company, will make Khalifa Port a hub for three of the worlds top four shipping companies. This addition creates opportunities to open trade routes to new markets in Europe, Africa, Western Asia, and South Asia. At home, we expect the presence of the shipping line terminal, which will link directly to Khalifa Ports upcoming rail terminal and utilise its services, to accelerate trade flows moving in and out of the UAE, while also encouraging CMA CGM Groups customers to consider establishing a presence in Abu Dhabi.

Rodolphe Saade, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group, said: The ambitious project we are launching in Abu Dhabi marks an important milestone in CMA CGMs development strategy in the region.

"This state-of-the-art terminal will contribute to enhancing Khalifa Ports position as a leading global hub and to boosting the region's economy, accelerating trade flows in and out of Abu Dhabi.

"It will also enable our Group to expand its shipping and logistics network in the region, where we see a lot of growth potential, he added. -TradeArabia News Service
A new multi-million regional data center set to be built in Bahrain will promote collective digital transformation with the aim of evolving local economies and enriching the lives of common people in the Arab nations.



The Arab Leagues Arab Federation for Digital Economy (AFDE) has entered into an agreement with UAE-headquartered ATDXT, a digital transformation company, to launch the first of its kind collaboration to enable digital transformation hub in the new data center in Bahrain focused on localized, data protection, enhancing security, and rendering digital transformation solutions.



The initiatives main hub in Bahrain will serve all member states of the Arab League. All member countries partaking in the initiative can leverage these solutions hosted in Bahrain, which is a key driver behind the Gulfs overall digital economy transformation efforts.



These solutions will be focused on supporting both government and private sector entities in Arab League member states, with the aim of improving the competitiveness of Arab economies and fostering their integration into the global economy.



ATDXTs eco-friendly, green, in-country, data center in Bahrain is designed as a technology solution hub to host advanced technologies and digital transformation solutions, which will be servicing Arab league states. These solutions will be extended to also be hosted locally in Arab league member nations such as the UAE, Oman, KSA, Morocco, Kuwait, and Jordan in the first phase with other states to follow soon after.



These simple, secure and affordable technology solutions will cover e-government services, e-commerce services; e-health solutions; secure digital tokens and fintech solutions; transportation solutions; digital identity solutions; telecommunication transformation systems; governance, crime management and cyber security systems; e-agriculture platforms; solar and renewable energy; and other business solutions.



GS Murthy, Founder & Executive Chairman, ATDXT Group, said: We are delighted to partner with the Arab League and incubate the first of its many multi-million-dollar regional hubs, in Bahrain. The focus of this initiative will remain to be on digital transformation enablement that will improve competitiveness of the Arab nations, and foster their integration into the global economy. We are confident that our best-in-class skill development initiative, focused on cutting edge technologies, will create immense job opportunities and future technology leaders across the Arab nations.



Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kingdom of Bahrain, said: I congratulate and appreciate the ATDXT Group, to choose the Kingdom of Bahrain to be the Digital Transformation solutions hub, reflecting the excellence of the investment environment in Bahrain, and the care and support provided by the competent authorities concerned with attracting investments and capital in the Kingdom, and the many facilities they provide to investors. This partnership will enable us to contribute to the transformation of the digital outlook of the countries of the Middle-East and to continue to provide leading services to our citizens, residents and region as a whole.



Ambassador Hossam Zaki, Assistant Secretary General of the Arab League, said: The League of Arab States along with the Arab Union is actively promoting the joint Arab strategic vision for the digital economy. Digital transformation and related topics, such as artificial intelligence and digital data are becoming the basic resource of this era. Im confident that this partnership will contribute to strengthening Arab cooperation in the digital world.



Dr Ali M. Al-khouri, The Advisor of the Council for Arab Economic Unity, and the Chairman of the, Arab Federation for Digital Economy in the Arab League, said: The Arab world is evolving at a rapid pace and our digital transformation is at the heart of this exciting development. Increasingly, Arab states are collaborating on digital economies for the benefit of the regions population. This digital transformation initiative with ATDXT is a leap forward in the digital space, and we look forward to all member states making the best use of this new offering in service of our wider collective prosperity.



Khalid Humaidan, Chief Executive at Bahrains Economic Development Board, said: We are delighted Bahrain has been chosen as the central location for this initiative and we look forward to serving the Arab worlds digital transformation goals across multiple sectors. Bahrain is well positioned to act as the main hub for the project. Its digital infrastructure, forward-thinking regulatory framework and its highly educated and tech-savvy population make it a favourable environment for projects like this.  TradeArabia News Service
Following a multi-year investment, Bank of America has launched the next generation of its global Virtual Account Management (VAM) solution to address the growing complexities that treasurers face today when managing global operations.

Business growth can make cash management unnecessarily complex and opaque as new bank accounts are regularly opened to support operations in different countries or subsidiaries, said Liba Saiovici, head of Global Receivables in Global Transaction Services at Bank of America. Whether companies are already operating worldwide or seeking to simplify their internal structure, our VAM platform can help them optimise their treasury operations.

New features of Bank of Americas enhanced VAM solution include:

 A single global view. From a single dashboard, clients have visibility of virtual accounts across countries with the ability to set up structures in 30+ currencies;

 Flexibility. Accessed through the banks CashPro platform, clients can manage virtual account structures and transactions via the new self-service user interface or via file transmission; and

 Digital account transition made easy. With VAM fully integrated into the banks CashPro and foreign exchange platforms, clients can now take advantage of our full suite of reporting and electronic payment and receipt types.

Since introducing VAM six years ago, weve acquired deep experience in understanding what our clients need most from virtual accounts, and weve built this enhanced solution to meet those needs, said Matthew Davies, co-head of Global Corporate GTS Sales and head of GTS EMEA.

VAM has multiple use cases beyond its most well-known one, being receivables reconciliation. In our view, nearly every company could benefit from its powerful capabilities.

The enhanced solution is currently available in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Netherlands. Subsequent roll-outs will occur in other countries and regions in the near future.

Bank of America is an award-winning provider of global transaction services. Most recently, the bank was named Outstanding Financial Innovator  2021 Global by Global Finance magazine.-- TradeArabia News Service
Egypts pioneering model for mapping Official Development Assistance (ODA) with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be rolled out to the region and beyond, the Egypt-International Cooperation Forum has heard (Egypt-ICF).

Opening the second day of the inaugural Egypt-ICF, Dr Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypts Minister of International Cooperation, explained how the ODA-SDG mapping model can help better understand the real-world impact of sustainable development projects on citizens in developing economies across the world.

Underlining the importance of working with other countries to develop their own bespoke ODA-SDG mapping models, Al-Mashat said: We will not be able to move forward unless we have strength and multilateralism.

We need to be more inclusive, there needs to be predictability when it comes to financing and the importance of multilateralism to accelerate the [sustainable development] goals, she said, outlining the integral role the ODA-SDG map can play in empowering developing economies.

In light of the Government of Egypts political will, the Ministry of International Cooperation is pushing towards inclusive and impactful engagement integrating the private sector and civil society.

All the UN projects are being implemented through NGOs and civil society across Egypt. (The ODA-SDG model) offers a robust example of how we can align globally on the sustainability agenda because of its adoptability and scalability.

Egypts ODA-SDG mapping exercise launched earlier this year showed how the countrys 377 ongoing development projects, worth more than $25 billion, were impacting its people and enabling its decision-making capabilities by highlighting opportunities and gaps in development cooperation, including financial and technical assistance.

The UNs Resident Coordinator for Egypt, Elena Panova, said Egypts pioneering ODA-SDG mapping exercise carried out by the country on a national level could become a global practice and support the work done by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to map ODA worldwide.

We believe (the mapping exercise conducted by the Ministry of International Cooperation) could be replicated in other countries, Panova said at the Egypt-ICF on Thursday, during a workshop entitled, Mapping ODA To SDGs: A Tool for Effective Policy Making.

The way forward could be that this methodology is being taken further by [other] countries [thus] complementing the OECDs work, Panova said.

Joining Al-Mashat and Panova for the opening session, Alfredo Abad, Head of Regional Representation, European Investment Bank (EIB), said the pathway set out by Egypts ODA-SDG map, helps us to understand at a government level where we position ourselves.

This is a very important tool to engage in dialogues with our partners. The challenge is to get accurate data and there are different ways of looking at the same things. But the approach of the Ministry of International Cooperation and the team is commendable. Integrating, including everybody, definitely this is the way.

Echoing the positive sentiment around the novel mapping model, Marina Wes, Country Director, Egypt, Yemen and Djibouti, Middle East and North Africa, at the World Bank Group, said: Its incredibly important for future decision-making prioritisation. Its really pathbreaking to see the leadership taking on this. I want to emphasise the timeliness of this exercise, as many of us prepare new strategies to recover from the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Walid Kamal, Country Manager, UNAIDS - Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS, said achieving the SDGs will help overcome the HIV-AIDS epidemic. After 40 years of efforts and work including different strategies and policies, I believe the SDGs are maybe the cornerstone for ending the HIV-AIDS epidemic, especially when we look at developing countries, he said.-- TradeArabia News Service
TIER Mobility, Europe's leading shared micro-mobility provider, has deployed its industry-leading e-scooter fleet across different locations in Bahrain.



This move came as part of TIERs ongoing expansion plans in the Middle East, which was achieved through a collaboration with Bahrains official authority, the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT). TIER's latest market launch marks Bahrain as the third country in the Middle East for the leading tech company to operate in.



With the mission to change mobility for good, TIER is looking to fully support the MTT in their goal towards developing the micro-mobility sector in Bahrain by providing the country with the latest generation of e-scooters and e-bikes in the market.



TIERs innovative e-scooters, which will operate on a 24/7 basis, will be located at prime residential and commercial spots around Manama. The local team of the Berlin-based company has worked in close collaboration with MTT to ensure the e-scooters are functioning seamlessly and with the highest levels of safety in place.



Currently TIER operates in 135 cities and 14 countries globally and the numbers are growing rapidly as part of their worldwide expansion project. Since its arrival in the region in 2019, the company has expanded their footprint to three countries; UAE, Qatar and now Bahrain, across four cities, Abu Dhabi & Dubai, Doha and Manama, with plans to serve more cities even further across the Middle East over the coming years.



Amir Melad, General Manager Middle East for TIER, said: We are proud to enter Bahrain as our third country in the Middle East and will continue to expand our micro-mobility services to new territories in the MENA region to foster greener cities. With TIERs cutting-edge e-scooters and e-bikes, residents in Manama can experience an eco-friendly, convenient and refreshing way of moving around the city.



The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications (MTT) has set out extensive master plans to facilitate micro-mobility within the country and TIER aims to support these policies by introducing new modes of transportation such as e-scooters and e-bikes. TIER has been licensed by the MTT to operate in Bahrain and reinforce the ministrys vision in developing micro-mobility within the Kingdom.



We are also very grateful for the immense support we have received from Bahrains Economic Development Board (EDB). It is great to see the efforts they are making in helping international companies, such as TIER, establish in Bahrain, added Amir.



To celebrate its launch in the city of Manama, TIER will offer first-time riders two complementary unlocks and 30 free minutes added to their account when registering with the code TIERBAH. To use a TIER scooter, riders can download the app, select an e-scooter on the virtual map and unlock it by scanning the presented QR code.



To end the ride, users can utilise TIERs hassle-free virtual parking system, where they simply need to locate a designated safe parking spot and click on the End Ride button.



Furthermore, TIER app users will have the option to unlock their e-scooters with an unlock fee of BD0.3 ($0.80) followed by BHD 0.1 per-minute ride charge. Riders will be able to make payments through a debit or credit card. Most recently, TIER launched Rider Plus, a subscription based package that offers users discounts of up to 50 percent for their rides which makes the service even more attractive for frequent riders.



TIERs e-scooters have the longest lifespan in the market and come equipped with an array of state-of-the-art safety features that ensure the smoothest and safest rides.  TradeArabia News Service
A total of 71 Oman Air volunteers were recently recognized for their commitment to community wellbeing as part of the Ministry of Healths National Vaccination Campaign at the Oman Conference and Exhibition Centre.



Abdulaziz Al Raisi, Oman Air Chief Executive Officer, accompanied by Hilal Al Siyabi, Oman Air Senior Vice President - People, who led the initiative, personally thanked the volunteers.



Oman Air has a social responsibility to the communities in which we operate, said Abdulaziz Al Raisi.



Im delighted and immensely proud of the overwhelming response of Oman Air staff in the National Vaccination Campaign at OCEC. They have shown, through their dedication in the last three months, compassion and consideration toward fellow citizens in an overarching objective to protect public health. That Oman has been able to diminish the spread of Covid-19 is due to the many volunteers who continue to make an impact, every day, he added.  TradeArabia News Service
Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group), the executive arm of the Sultanate for tourism development, has launched its new Creatourism programme, aiming to promote art, culture and heritage in various development projects and hotels of the Group.



The programme aims to support and encourage aspiring Omani artists and entrepreneurs specialised in the field of arts management to showcase their talents by getting involved in creative initiatives led by Omran Group.



The Creatourism initiative will give these artists the opportunity to deploy their skills and capabilities to operate shops, supervise exhibitions and organise artistic and cultural activities in various tourist facilities. This will in turn provide the necessary value-added services that will help enhance the touristic experiences in the country.



Along with the launch of the Creatourism programme, Omran Group also announced its very first competition where the winner gets the opportunity to manage and operate the art space at InterContinental Muscat Hotel.



The competition is targeted at creative Omani entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises specialized in the field of art. The Group encourages all those interested to send in their proposals in accordance with the conditions outlined in the competition.



Hashil bin Obaid Al Mahrouqi, CEO of Omran Group, said: Through our ongoing efforts, Omran Group has demonstrated unfaltering commitment to enhancing the tourism sector in the Sultanate. Creatourism is a unique programme that will bring together creative minds from all over the country, and we, in turn, will ensure that they are given ample opportunities to showcase their talents and contribute effectively to the tourism sector.



Promoting tourism and enhancing the overall experience has always been one of the important areas of focus for the country. We are confident that this initiative will receive an overwhelming response in the market and help the aspiring youth achieve their dreams.



Our first competition launched under the Creatourism programme seeks to attract Omani entrepreneurs and specialists in the fields of arts, culture, heritage, contemporary design and creative ideas. The winner gets a chance to create an art space of their own at InterContinental Muscat Hotel. While our plans to implement the same for other properties and tourist sites are underway, we encourage all those interested to seize this opportunity and participate in the first competition, Al Mahrouqi added.  TradeArabia News Service
Staybridge Suites Dubai Al Maktoum Airport, the residential-style hotel in Dubai South will host three country delegations for Expo Dubai 2020 that opens to the world in October 1.



The hotel is managed by Ishraq Hospitality, a division of the Mohammad &Obaid AlMulla Group that is supporting Dubai efforts in showcasing this global event.



Conveniently located near Expo 2020 and Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport, Staybridge Suites Dubai Al Maktoum Airport is the preferred choice for delegations from Norway, the Czech Republic and Romania, offering them a home away from home for the six-month-long spectacular international event.



Nestled near the new business district of Dubai South, perfectly located near Expo Dubai 2020 and Dubai Al-Maktoum Airport, the hotel was found to be the right choice for delegations of Norway, Czech Republic, and Romania as they are seeking a home away from home for the 6 months long grand international event.



The three countries pavilions at Expo 2020 offer an exceptional experience for visitors. The Norway Pavilion will provide an explorative experience into the deep blue sea, with innovations for the sustainable use of our oceans, while the Czech Republic Pavilion will focus on the technological breakthroughs of producing water from air using solar energy and cultivating the desert using subsurface cultures.



Romanias Pavilion will showcase the close relationship between its people and nature, promoting sustainable economic growth and scientific innovation.



Chady Kanaan, General Manager of Staybridge Suites Dubai Al Maktoum Airport said: It is our privilege to host these international representatives. We are eager to extend them genuine Arabian hospitality in an environment as welcoming and diverse as Dubai. We look forward to hosting the delegations and help them find their home within ours.



Our hotel offers the ideal blend of luxury and comfort with rooms fully equipped to take care of guests needs. We want visitors to explore Dubai while feeling at home, he added. Our hotel provides the perfect blend of luxury and comfort and the rooms are fully equipped to take care of the guests needs. We want visitors to explore Dubai, yet feel at home, he added.



The hotels 262 spacious and elegant suites have a contemporary, distinctive design to create a comfortable, home-like experience for guests. They come fully equipped with kitchen facilities such as a dishwasher, countertop cooking hob, microwave, fridge, coffee maker and essential utensils to enable guests to enjoy cooking and offer spacious living and workspaces, allowing guests to work and entertain friends.  TradeArabia News Service
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has announced the launch of its thrice-a-week service to Bahrain from the UAE capital. The inaugural flight which took off from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) was greeted with a water cannon salute on landing at Bahrain International Airport.

The new route will strengthen connectivity within the GCC by providing an alternative and ultra-low fare travel option for passengers between the two Gulf countries, said a statement from Wizz Air Abu Dhabi.

The first flight to Bahrain closely follows the recent announcement made by the Abu Dhabi Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Committee removing the need to quarantine for all vaccinated travellers arriving into Abu Dhabi from all international destinations.

Since its launch early this year, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi has announced a wide range of exciting routes to and from the UAE capital. These include Athens, Alexandria, Bahrain, Belgrade, Odesa, Sarajevo, Tirana and a number of others (see full list of routes here), with demand expected to increase following the change in travel guidelines.

Managing Director Kees Van Schaick said: "Today is an important milestone for us at Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and we are pleased to mark the occasion alongside our partners  Abu Dhabi Airport Company (ADAC) and Bahrain Airport Company (BAC)."

"The addition of the Abu Dhabi-Manama route provides a low-fare travel option for those wishing to fly the popular Gulf travel route. This new destination is the first route to be added to our flying roster since this weeks update to the travel guidelines regarding vaccinated passengers  it is an exciting moment for us all!," he added.

Abu Dhabi Airports CEO Shareef Al Hashmi said: "Today is another great step forward in the transformation journey of Abu Dhabi International Airport into a global transport hub, and we congratulate our colleagues and partners at Wizz Air Abu Dhabi on their inaugural flight to Bahrain."

"This development will connect our customers to new and exciting destinations and has been made possible by the hard work of all our team, implementing our comprehensive health and safety programme, across all of Abu Dhabi airports," he added.

Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah said: "BAC is delighted to welcome Wizz Air Abu Dhabi to Bahrain International Airport and we are certain that it will be a popular choice with travellers at both ends of the route."

"BAC is committed to strengthening our national airports global connections, to help boost tourism and the GCC economies. This is also yet another indicator that travel for business and pleasure is returning to normality as travel restrictions ease," he added.

The flight to Bahrain International Airport (BIA) will operate three times a week on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.-TradeArabia News Service
Washington, Sep 9 (UNI/Sputnik) The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has called upon American allies and partners to unite in an effort to mitigate the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and to hold the Taliban (banned in Russia) accountable on counterterrorism, spokesperson Ned Price said on Wednesday.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas co-hosted a ministerial on Afghanistan with allies and partners, Price said in a press release. Secretary Blinken urged unity in mitigating a potential humanitarian crisis and on holding the Taliban accountable on counterterrorism, on allowing safe passage for foreign citizens and Afghans who want to leave, and on forming an inclusive government that respects basic rights.

The US will continue to support the human rights of the Afghan people, including women and girls, and to ensure that the country does not become a safe haven for terrorism, the release said.

Representatives of Germany, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, France, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Norway, Pakistan, Qatar, the Republic of Korea, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations attended the meeting.

Conflict coupled with drought and COVID-19 has caused immense displacement, poverty, and food insecurity in Afghanistan. As a result, about 18 million people in Afghanistan are in need of humanitarian assistance, according to the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations' Directorate for Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Pacific.

The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization fears that the upcoming winter season will threaten hundreds of thousands of Afghans whose livelihoods depend on agriculture if urgent humanitarian assistance fails to come on time.



UNI/SPUTNIK GK 0822
Kabul, Sep 9 (UNI) Bearded, gun-toting members of the Taliban militia have taken over the Norwegian embassy in Kabul and smashed wine bottles and destroyed childrens books, the Norwegian Ambassador Sigvald Hauge has said.



Posting a picture of the Taliban militia inside the embassy, the Ambassador tweeted: Taliban has now taken over the Norwegian Embassy in Kabul. Say they will return it to us later.



But first wine bottles are to be smashed and childrens books destroyed.



Guns apparently less dangerous, he said.

The photo is by Aftenposten, Norways largest printed newspaper.



Aftenposten on its website showed bearded and turbaned Taliban militia men trying to tear a childrens book.



It said that 56 Taliban members have moved into a small piece of Norwegian land in Kabul.



A twitter post said: Reports the Taliban have moved into the Norwegian embassy in Kabul, where "the ambassador's wine collection...must be crushed," and kids' DVD and Christmas music CD were destroyed.



"But wooden skis with Kandahar bindings were carefully studied."



One picture showed the Taliban carefully looking at a wooden ski.

The Taliban during their previous stint in power in Afghanistan destroyed musical instruments as well as cassette tapes. Musicians have been persecuted during Taliban rule.

Since the Taliban's return to power, Afghan TV and radio stations have changed their programming to play Islamic songs exclusively.



UNI/RN
New Delhi, September 9 (UNI) The Delhi government will adopt a ten pronged approach to combat the air pollution menace of the national capital as a part of Delhi's winter action plan, Environment Minister Gopal Rai said on Thursday.

Issue of stubble burning, vehicular pollution, dust pollution, burning of waste, hotspots areas, smog towers, dialogue with neighbouring states, strengthening the Green Act, up-gradation of the war room and coordination with union government and their central agencies are the ten focus points that the government would work upon to develop the winter action plan, he informed during a press briefing.

The minister chaired a high-level meeting with the officials of the environment department, DPCC, development department and forest department earlier in the day where it was decided to focus on 10 major points to implement the winter action plan.
Geneva, Sep 8 (UNI/SPUTNIK) World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Wednesday called for a global moratorium on booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines until the end of the year so every country can have opportunities to vaccinate "at least" 40% of population.

"A month ago I called for a global moratorium on booster doses at least until the end of September to prioritize vaccinating the most at risk people around the world who are yet to receive the first dose. There has been little change in the global situation since then. I am calling for an extension of the moratorium until at least the end of the year to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40% of its population, Tedros told a press briefing.

UNI/SPUTNIK RKM 2046
ELIZABETH URBAN is News Editor for The Vidette. Urban can be contacted at emurba1@ilstu.edu. Follow Urban on Twitter at @eliizabethurban.

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Archives Call for City Council Memorabilia

In November of this year, the Gibraltar National Archives (GNA) will host an exhibition to mark the Centenary of the creation of the Gibraltar City Council in 1921.

The Archivist, Anthony Pitaluga, has already collected a considerable amount of material, which includes documents, plans, photographs, press cuttings and film footage.

However, the GNA is asking members of the public who may have potential exhibits or memorabilia to contact them in order to establish whether these could be used in the exhibition.

The exhibition to be held at the City Hall, will open to the public on Thursday 11th November 2021, and will remain open until Friday 17th December 2021.

The relevant contact details are:

National Archives, Convent Courtyard, Secretary's Lane Tel: 200 79461 / 200 40314

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

www.nationalarchives.gi
On Sept. 7, Pennsylvania lawmakers turned to their attention to a 737 million dollar national environmental initiative, the Chesapeake Bay Resilient Farms Initiative (CRFI).

The initiative supports Pennsylvania farmers who take action against climate change. It specifically calls for sustainable agriculture practices that reduce nitrogen output, improve water quality, and effectively decrease negative impacts of climate change on agricultural production.

"Last week, we all saw the devastating and deadly impacts of climate change as Hurricane Ida swept across our nation, leaving its mark not only on the hurricane-prone states to the south, but also Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey, said Governor Wolf.

As we rebuild, we need to rethink how we can all do our part to mitigate against climate change. Pennsylvania agriculture has stepped up to the challenge and has a plan; farmers are waiting to jump into action. We just need support, as was provided to the Mississippi River Basin, to get moving.

Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding, signed his support for the Chesapeake Bay Commission's proposal to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The initiative would impact the six Chesapeake Bay watershed states over the next decade. With the agriculture industry responsible for 80 percent of nitrogen reductions, this program is critical to increasing capacity and making this goal feasible for the industry to accomplish.

In agriculture, we not only have the responsibility to harvest food to feed the world, but we have the opportunity to harvest carbon and make a real impact on the climate of the world we leave for the next generation, said Redding. This plan makes implementing conservation practices realistic for our farmers through voluntary cost-share programs that help us to achieve our co-equal restoration goals.

Redding signed a joint letter with the agriculture secretaries of West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and New York that was issued to Vilsack on Aug. 25.

The proposed CRFI program is modeled after the USDA-funded Mississippi River Basin Initiative and targets the sub-watersheds  particularly the Susquehanna River  that have the greatest impact on the Chesapeake Bay and offer the most cost-effective solutions.

Out of the six watershed states, Pennsylvania faces, by far, the biggest challenge with the Susquehanna River providing half of the Bays fresh water. However, with a targeted investment in Lancaster, York, Franklin, Cumberland, Lebanon, Bedford, and Centre counties, Pennsylvania could achieve half of its reduction goals and restore more than 19,000 locally impaired stream miles.
Halls Sophie Garner-MacKinnon has been named the 2020-21 Gatorade Connecticut Softball Player of the Year, according to a release from Gatorade. Garner-MacKinnon is the first Gatorade Connecticut Softball Player of the Year to be chosen from Hall High School.
Thought for the week: God has made many promises to you, and He will keep every single one of them. Your job is to trust Gods word and to live accordingly.
Source: Xinhua| 2021-08-14 03:49:15|Editor: huaxia

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TRIPOLI, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- The Libyan navy on Friday said its coast guard rescued 113 illegal migrants off the country's western coast.

The migrants, rescued in two separate operations, are from different African countries, the navy said.

The migrants were disembarked at Libyan capital Tripoli's Naval Base and then handed over to the anti-illegal immigration department.

The department will look after the migrants and complete the procedures for their deportation safely back to their countries of origin, the navy added.

Libya has been suffering insecurity and chaos since the fall of the late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, making the North African country a preferred point of departure for illegal migrants who want to cross the Mediterranean Sea to European shores.

Rescued migrants end up inside overcrowded reception centers across Libya, despite repeated international calls to close those centers.

Since 2021, more than 20,000 illegal immigrants, including women and children, have been rescued, while hundreds of others have died and gone missing off the Libyan coast on the Central Mediterranean route, according to the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 13:51:17|Editor: huaxia

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Afghan people wait to enter Pakistan at the border crossing point of Torkham between Pakistan and Afghanistan on Sept. 3, 2021. The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan, located in a tribal town in Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has seen many people entering and exiting Pakistan since the Afghan Taliban's takeover of Kabul last month. During a recent visit to the border, Xinhua's reporters witnessed the return of normalcy in travel and trade between the two countries, with border guards allowing travelers with valid documents to enter and exit from the border, at both sides. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal)

ISLAMABAD, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan, located in a tribal town in Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, has seen many people entering and exiting Pakistan since the Afghan Taliban's takeover of Kabul last month.

During a recent visit to the border, Xinhua's reporters witnessed the return of normalcy in travel and trade between the two countries, with border guards allowing travelers with valid documents to enter and exit from the border, at both sides.

Speaking with Xinhua, people entering Pakistan and residents settled along the borderland stretch, hoped that peace will prevail in Afghanistan with no foreign interference.

They also hoped that the Afghan Taliban will continue with a positive approach to lay the foundation of a stable and prosperous Afghanistan.

Riaz Shah, a cab driver in the Pakistani border town of Landi Kotal, believes that peace in Afghanistan is vital for the prosperity of both Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the general public of Afghanistan wants to see the country progressing in a peaceful environment as the country has been battered by war and terrorism over the last two decades.

"I hope that things will return back to normal after Taliban's takeover, and all the promises which they have made about education and economic opportunities will be fulfilled," Shah told Xinhua.

Shah among other border residents is of the view that the U.S. invasion not only led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan, but also made the people living along the border in Pakistan suffer from increasing terrorist activities in the region.

Since entering Afghanistan, U.S. troops had caused more than 40,000 civilian deaths and turned around 11 million people into refugees.

He said that the Afghan Taliban have taken several positive steps.

"Afghans now want a breath of fresh air, after all their sufferings they deserve to live in peace. Common Afghans just want to earn their bread and butter in peace, without any threat of getting shot by a bullet or hit by a bomb," Wahid Ullah, a 38-year-old shopkeeper in Landi Kotal, told Xinhua.

Yaaraaz Shinwari, a Pakistani border town resident who has many friends and relatives living in Afghanistan, is optimistic that the Taliban will bring a positive change in the country by adopting a progressive approach.

"From the speeches and statements of the Taliban, it seems that they are off to a positive start, and people of Afghanistan and we living closest to them want it to continue," said Shinwari.

"We are very happy with the steps taken by the Taliban. They have allowed women to do business, work in a hospital, or whatever they want to do within the boundaries of Sharia law. We want them to keep the good things going."

The Pakistani youngster said that amid the improvement of the security situation in Afghanistan, tribal residents of Pakistan who live along the border would also be able to have sound economic activities with the people of Afghanistan. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 14:53:02|Editor: huaxia

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CANBERRA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg was risking the wellbeing of the Australian by provoking China with the so-called "China plus" strategy, reported the Australian Financial Review, citing a Chinese scholar.

"The so-called 'China plus' strategy is in essence 'China minus'," Chen Hong, director of Australian Studies Center in the East China Normal University, was quoted by the business-focused daily as saying.

"Frydenberg is purposely trying to dictate Australian businesses to redesign themselves for an economy without China," Chen said.

"This is a war cry for substantive decoupling, which shows Canberra's determination to position China as an adversary, not a partner," he added.

Frydenberg alleged on Monday that China's combination of economic power and global connection poses "new and significant challenges for many countries", and Australian businesses should not "overly rely on one country".

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin urged the Australian side to abandon the Cold War mentality and ideological bias, stop playing up "coercive China" narrative for selfish political gains, and do more to enhance mutual trust and promote practical cooperation between the two countries. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 17:33:17|Editor: huaxia

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ULAN BATOR, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Southern Mongolia's province of Dundgovi has started a vaccination campaign against the deadly foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) among high-risk animals, local media reported on Thursday, citing the provincial government.

The FMD is a viral infectious disease that spreads between cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep and pigs.

The FMD broke out in Erdenedalai district of the province last month, and more than 2,000 heads of livestock infected with the disease were killed and buried.

The livestock sector is a main pillar of the Mongolian economy with around 70 million heads of livestock in the country with a human population of 3.3 million.

The landlocked country is striving to develop its livestock sector in a bid to diversify its mining-dependent economy by raising its meat exports.

However, frequent outbreaks of livestock animal diseases such as FMD and mad cow disease are impeding the country's meat exports.

The country's meat exports have been suspended since June due to infectious animal diseases, according to the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 17:35:30|Editor: huaxia

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BANGKOK, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's food exports are expected to expand 7.1 percent year-on-year in 2021, boosted by growing demand from the global market and a weaker Thai baht, officials said Thursday.

The aggregated value of food exports would reach 1.05 trillion baht (about 32.07 billion U.S. dollars), said Industry Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit.

The country's exports value of food products increased by 4.5 percent in the first seven months of the year to 622.7 billion baht, lifted by strong demand from major trading partners such as China, the United States and the European Union (EU), Suriya said.

During the January-July period, Thailand's exports of food products to China surged 40 percent from one year earlier due to China's recovering domestic consumption, while exports to the U.S. and European markets also showed signs of recovery, he said.

Anong Paijitprapapon, head of the National Food Institute (NFI), said the Thai food industry is likely to further expand in the second half of this year in line with the global economic recovery.

Food exports value from August to December is projected to rise 11 percent year-on-year to 427.3 billion baht, according to the NFI.

Anong said the Southeast Asian country's food exports were also boosted by the depreciation of the baht, but warned that the situation of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising freight cost might weigh on food exports. (1 Thai Baht equals 0.031 U.S. dollars) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 17:43:01|Editor: huaxia

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MANILA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- At least three people died and 31 went missing in a powerful storm that lashed the Philippines since Monday, a government agency said on Thursday.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said tropical storm Conson affected nearly 84,000 people in Metro Manila and five other regions. Over 10,000 people have been evacuated to safety.

Days of heavy rains triggered flooding and landslides in several areas along the storm path, the agency added. Local officials said strong winds also toppled electric posts and blew away roofs.

The disaster agency said the missing people included fishermen who ignored the government warning and went fishing despite the rough seas.

The storm, which hit land in the central Philippines on Monday night and is forecast to exit the Philippines Thursday night, also damaged more than 3,000 houses in four regions.

"Power and communication restoration and clearing operations of roads are ongoing in affected areas," presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said in a statement.

The Philippines is also monitoring typhoon Chanthu, which is now battering the northern part of the main Luzon island and is expected to leave the country on Saturday. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 18:20:04|Editor: huaxia

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KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The dialogue relations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) established 30 years ago have promoted economic and trade exchanges and created huge business opportunities in the region, a Malaysian business leader said.

Ng Yih Pyng, deputy president of the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), told Xinhua ahead of the 18th China-ASEAN Expo that the achievements of the partnership are fully in line with the common aspirations of China and ASEAN countries, including Malaysia.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the dialogue relations between China and ASEAN.

"Malaysia was among the first ASEAN countries to establish diplomatic relations with China. The bilateral relations have a long history. China has been Malaysia's largest trading partner for the past 12 years. Although the COVID-19 pandemic had a huge impact on the world, the bilateral economic and trade between Malaysia and China have maintained stable development," Ng said.

According to the Chinese Customs, bilateral trade between China and Malaysia recorded a 35.2-percent increase for the first eight months of 2021 to reach 108.28 billion U.S. dollars.

Ng said that in recent years, China has made great progress in many fields, including digital economics, technological innovation, energy regeneration, intelligent transportation and e-commerce, to which the Malaysian government has also attached great importance in its own development strategy.

"We hope to learn more from China, (so we) can promote the technological exchanges between the two countries and achieve common development," he said, adding that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RECP) free trade deal, which was signed in November 2020, has opened a new chapter for the development of China-ASEAN relations.

The RCEP groups together the 10 ASEAN members -- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam -- plus Japan, China, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

On the upcoming 18th China-ASEAN Expo, Ng said the ACCCIM has never been absent in the past 17 years. "Despite the pandemic, this year we will still attend the 'Cloud Expo'. We will try our best to promote Malaysia-China economic and trade exchanges under the new normal," he said.

The 18th China-ASEAN Expo will be held on Sept. 10-13 in Nanning, the capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 19:52:03|Editor: huaxia

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NEW DELHI, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- U.S. automobile manufacturer Ford Motor Co. said on Thursday that it has decided to stop vehicle manufacturing at both its facilities in India as the company restructures its operation plans in the South Asian country.

"To cease vehicle manufacturing in Chennai (Tamil Nadu) and Sanand (Gujarat); Progressively wind-down manufacturing of vehicles for export at Sanand plant by Q4 2021 and Chennai engine/vehicle assembly plants by Q2, 2022; To continue engine manufacturing for export," Ford India said in a brief statement on social media.

Local media said Ford accumulated operating losses of more than 2 billion U.S. dollars over the past 10 years and was now looking to "create a sustainably profitable business in India."

The company, however, said it will in turn bring in completely built-up models to India like the Mustang Coupe, Ranger pickup, and even electric vehicles like the Mustang Mach-E.

"To serve customers with iconic global vehicles and electrified SUVs i.e. Mustang coupe and Mustang Mach-E. Customers to benefit from Ford's global plan to invest over 30 billion U.S. dollars towards delivering all-new hybrid and fully electric vehicles," the company said.

Reports said over 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by the company's decision.

After General Motors and Harley Davidson, Ford is the latest carmaker to cease production in India. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 19:58:53|Editor: huaxia

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COLOMBO, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Thursday left for Italy to attend the G20 Interfaith Forum which will begin on Sept. 12, his office said.

A statement from the foreign ministry said the prime minister was accompanied by Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris and Foreign Secretary Admiral Jayanath Colombage.

Rajapaksa is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the opening session of the forum which will be held at the University of Bologna.

An official from the Prime Minister's office told Xinhua that Rajapaksa will hold bilateral discussions with the Italian leaders and other world leaders on the sidelines of the forum.

Rajapaksa will return to Sri Lanka on Sept. 16. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 20:53:17|Editor: huaxia

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SUVA, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Fiji has recorded 179 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 and five new deaths from the pandemic, said the Ministry of Health on Thursday.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health James Fong said 87 of the new cases were reported in the Western Division, 90 in the Central Division, one in Kadavu and one in Vanua Levu.

Fong said there have been 403 new recoveries recorded since the last update.

There have been 48,502 cases so far reported during the current outbreak that started in April 2021, and 48,572 cases in total since the first coronavirus case was reported in March 2020, with 34,318 recoveries.

The coronavirus death toll currently stands at 533 in Fiji, including 531 in the current outbreak.

There are currently 154 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Fiji. Fong said five of them are in critical condition.

Fong said 96.5 percent of the targeted population in the country have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 52.5 percent are fully vaccinated.

He said the health ministry is planning to begin inoculating children under 18 years in the country, with those between 16 and 18 years being the first vaccine receivers of the group.

Fong said any decision on reopening schools will be contingent on how well this vaccination phase rolls out. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 21:20:41|Editor: huaxia

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Brunei recorded 3,154.9 million Brunei dollars (2,348.4 million U.S. dollars) total trade for June 2021, a 178.6 percent year-on-year increase.

The latest International Merchandise Trade Statistics released on Thursday by the Department of Economic Planning and Statistics at the Ministry of Finance and Economy showed that Brunei's exports increased by 145.8 percent year-on-year to 1,320.7 million Brunei dollars, which was mainly due to the increase in mineral fuel exports.

Mineral fuels recorded the highest contribution of total exports (75.1 percent) with a value of 991.8 million Brunei dollars.

Imports increased by 208.2 percent year-on-year to 1,834.2 million Brunei dollars.

The highest share of exports in June 2021 went to Singapore (27.4 percent), followed by China (23.1 percent) and Japan (18.0 percent).

The highest share of imports in June 2021 was from Saudi Arabia (60.7 percent), followed by Russia (11.1 percent) and Malaysia (7.9 percent). (1 Brunei dollar equals about 0.74 U.S. dollar) Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:08:17|Editor: huaxia

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PHNOM PENH, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- The National Assembly of Cambodia on Thursday ratified the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement (FTA), which comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries.

Ninety-three lawmakers, who were present during the parliamentary session, unanimously adopted the pact, which will be next reviewed by the Senate before being submitted to King Norodom Sihamoni for endorsement.

Signed on Nov. 15, 2020, the RCEP is a mega trade deal between 10 ASEAN member states (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) and its FTA partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Cambodian Commerce Minister Pan Sorasak said the Cambodian government has projected that the RCEP accord will boost the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2 percent, exports by 7.3 percent and investment by 23.4 percent.

"The RCEP agreement will become the core foundation for trade and investment in the region, further expand regional value chains and create more employment and market opportunities for peoples and businesses in the region," he told the parliament.

"It also gives support to the world on the multilateral free trade system," he added.

Cheam Yeap, chairman of the National Assembly's Commission of Economy, Finance, Banking and Audit, said that the pact will enter into force 60 days after six ASEAN member states and three of the non-ASEAN signatories ratified the agreement.

"This agreement will create an open trade and investment atmosphere for the region and will ultimately contribute to global economic growth and development," he said.

Covering a region with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of 26.2 trillion U.S. dollars, or about 30 percent of global GDP, the RCEP agreement is an unprecedented, modern, comprehensive, high-quality and reciprocal mega-regional trading arrangement that accommodates the broadest possible interests, conditions and priorities of different countries.

Once in effect, the deal will eliminate tariffs on as much as 90 percent of goods traded between its signatories over the next 20 years. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 22:57:49|Editor: huaxia

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PHNOM PENH, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- All secondary and high schools in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, are set for reopening next week as the country has achieved a high COVID-19 vaccination rate, an official statement said on Thursday.

"The Phnom Penh Municipal Administration decides to allow all public and private secondary schools and high schools in Phnom Penh to reopen from Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021 onwards," Phnom Penh Municipal governor Khuong Sreng said in the statement.

He said the schools must strictly comply with the standard operating procedure (SOP) introduced by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports.

The decision came after the Southeast Asian nation has seen success in its vaccination program.

The kingdom launched a COVID-19 inoculation drive in February, targeting to vaccinate 12 million people, or 75 percent of the kingdom's 16-million population, by the end of this year.

MoH's secretary of state and spokeswoman Or Vandine said some 11.36 million people, or 71 percent of the total population, have received at least one vaccine dose, while 9.16 million, or 57 percent, have received both required doses and 710,730 have received a third dose or booster dose.

Cambodia has shut down schools nationwide since February after the third wave of COVID-19 community transmission broke out. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 23:15:39|Editor: huaxia

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ISLAMABAD, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani President Arif Alvi said Thursday that his country attached great importance to the promotion of trade, business and commercial cooperation with friendly countries, according to a statement from the president's office.

Pakistan want to promote connectivity, regional peace and development by further expanding cooperation in the areas of trade, economy, culture and tourism, Alvi said while talking to the ambassadors-designate of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, Thailand and the high commissioner-designate of Nigeria, who made separate calls on him here on Thursday.

He said that Pakistan's unique geo-economic location offered tremendous opportunities for transport, trade, transit trade and information and communications technology connectivity to the entire region, said the statement.

"Greater regional integration would help drive growth and socio-economic development in the entire region," the president said.

While expressing satisfaction over the existing level of bilateral cooperation, Alvi stressed upon the need to hold regular meetings of institutional mechanisms to further solidify bilateral relations with friendly countries, according to the statement. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-09-09 23:43:50|Editor: huaxia

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PHNOM PENH, Sept. 9 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries on Thursday adopted a new strategic framework, aiming at dealing with challenges in the new decade, Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen said.

The GMS countries include Cambodia, China, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. The adoption was made during the seventh GMS Leaders' Summit, which was chaired by Hun Sen and attended by the leaders of other GMS countries including Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

"In our seventh Summit today, we endorsed and adopted a new strategic framework, the third for the GMS Program," Hun Sen said in his closing speech. "Again, we should be confident that this will guide us in coping with and overcoming a new set of complex and urgent challenges in this decade."

He said it's certain that the GMS countries are starting this new decade under a difficult crisis arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, with its serious and prolonged impacts on public health and economy.

He added that although there are now glimmers of hope, with the advent of the vaccines, the general expectation is that massive efforts are still needed to significantly control the disease and to bring back sustained growth to the economies.

Besides the pandemic, the world is also facing other challenges such as climate change, unilateralism and protectionism, he said.

"Now, more than ever, we must realize the crucial importance of cooperation and collaborative actions," Hun Sen said. "I believe that our joint efforts have a significant value over and above the sum of individual national efforts in addressing common problems."

"I therefore urge that we all commit to further strengthen our cooperation and to resolutely pursue the strategies and priority actions charted in the two documents that we endorsed today."

According to a press statement released after the meeting, the two endorsed documents were the GMS Strategic Framework 2030 (GMS-2030) and the GMS COVID-19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021 and 2023.

"The new strategy, GMS-2030, provides a new framework that seeks to help guide the subregion overcome new and continuing challenges and harness present and potential opportunities," the statement said. "It sets the Program's direction and priorities guided by the GMS vision of developing a more integrated, prosperous, sustainable and inclusive subregion."

It also aims at further enhancing community, connectivity and competitiveness while promoting environmental sustainability and resilience, enhanced internal and external integration and inclusivity, the statement said.

For the GMS COVID-19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021-2023, it was designed to help the subregion counteract and overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on public health and economy, it added.

Held once every three years, the GMS Leaders' Summit focuses on high-priority sectors such as agriculture, energy, environment, health, tourism, transport, trade facilitation and urban development. Enditem
This was confirmed by Ministry of Health (Minsa) Immunization Director Gabriela Jimenez , while commenting on the launch of "Vamos a tu encuentro. Vacunate ya" (We will come to you. Get vaccinated now) a strategy aimed at bringing the vaccination closer to those who cannot go to immunization centers.
#PlenoDelCongreso aprobo, con 119 votos a favor, el proyecto de Resolucion Legislativa 160.



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Presidente @PedroCastilloTe: Hoy tengo la especial satisfaccion de recibir a Angelica Espinoza y a su entrenadora Yvonne De la cruz para agradecerles enormemente por el gran triunfo obtenido, siendo la cuarta medalla de oro para el Peru en la historia de los Juegos Paralimpicos. pic.twitter.com/dbxNmo0drW
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESSS. Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan sent a letter of condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin over the untimely death of Russian Emergencies Minister Yevgeny Zinichev, the PMs Office told Armenpress.

Dear Mr. President,

With a deep sorrow I learnt about the tragic death of Minister of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation Yevgeny Zinichev during the fulfillment of his service duties.

On behalf of the people of Armenia and myself personally, please convey my words of support to Yevgeny Zinichevs family and friends, reads the Armenian PMs condolence letter.

Russian Emergencies Minister Yevgeny Zinichev died during the drills in the Arctic city of Norilsk as he was saving other persons life.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESSS. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan sent a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon on the occasion of Independence Day, the PMs Office told Armenpress.

The message runs as follows,

Honorable Mr. President,

I cordially congratulate you on the Independence Day of Tajikistan.

I sincerely wish Tajikistan development, as well as progress in the main directions of socio-economic transformations aimed at improving the welfare of citizens and increasing your country's role in the international arena.

I am convinced that the cooperation between Armenia and Tajikistan, based on the friendship of the peoples of our countries, can get a new impetus covering wider spheres of interstate cooperation through joint efforts.

I wish you, Honorable Mr. President, health, happiness and success, and peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Tajikistan.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. Aircompany Armenia transported more than 172 tons of humanitarian aid to Armenia during the 2020 war, its commercial director Gevorg Khachatryan said at a news conference.

He said the aid was flown into Armenia from various Russian cities, and the French cities of Lyon and Marseille.

We operated special flights to Beirut as well, and we transported humanitarian aid from there also. Its noteworthy that during the war flights were reduced from various countries. Many foreign airlines were refusing to fly to Armenia during that period, he said, praising Armenian pilots and crew that enabled Aircompany Armenia not only to avoid reducing flights but increase whenever needed.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESSS. Defense Minister of Armenia Arshak Karapetyan today received the parents and relatives of the servicemen and volunteers who went missing during the 2020 Artsakh War, the ministry reports.

The minister listened to the concerns and proposals of the families of missing servicemen, and answered to their questions, stating that the search operations still continue. He also taken into account the information provided by the parents of missing soldiers.

Arshak Karapetyan assured that all efforts are made to reveal the fate of all missing servicemen.

The minister tasked the responsible officials to examine the issues raised by the parents of the soldiers and report the details.

The defense minister also stated that such meetings will be held on a regular basis, assuring that the issue is under his direct attention.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESSS. Speaker of Parliament of Armenia Alen Simonyan met on September 8 with Speaker of Parliament of Serbia Ivica Dacic in Vienna on the sidelines of the Fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, the Armenian Parliament told Armenpress.

In his remarks Alen Simonyan said Armenia attaches great importance to the inter-parliamentary cooperation with Serbia.

He assured that the cooperation and active contacts will continue, contributing to the dynamic development of bilateral relations.

The sides highlighted paying mutual visits for boosting the inter-parliamentary partnership.

Alen Simonyan welcomed the decision of opening an embassy of Serbia in Armenia, which, he said, would give a new impetus for the development of the Armenian-Serbian relations and further cooperation.

The officials also discussed the current situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani border. Speaker Alen Simonyan presented information about the actions on releasing Armenian prisoners of war held in Azerbaijan.

The Serbian Speaker of Parliament reaffirmed his countrys readiness to deepen the cooperation with Armenia in all areas, including through strengthening the partnering ties between the parliaments. He emphasized that the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno Karabakh conflict has no alternative.

At the end of the meeting Alen Simonyan reaffirmed his invitation addressed to the Serbian counterpart to pay an official visit to Armenia.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. The Governor of Ararat Province Razmik Tevonyan tendered his resignation, his aide Kristine Poghosyan told ARMENPRESS.

The resignation can either be accepted or rejected within three days. As to the reasons of his resignation, I cant say, she said.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. The West 2021 (Zapad-2021) strategic military exercises held in Russia and Belarus have kicked off at the Mulino training grounds in Russia, the Armenian defense ministry reported.

The Armenian military is also participating in the drills, together with military contingents from Russia, Belarus, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia.

Russian Deputy Minister of Defense Nikolay Pankov said at the opening ceremony that the exercises will enable to develop universal approaches for readiness of troops, strengthen partnership and form new joint traditions of combat brotherhood. He emphasized that West-2021 drills are solely defensive in nature.

Around 200,000 troops, 80 warplanes and gunships, up to 760 armored vehicles, missile and artillery systems, and 15 ships are taking part in the exercises held on Russian and Belarusian territories.

The main actions of the drills will take place in September 10-16.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. On September 9, the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin hosted a conference entitled "Religious Freedom and Peace", which brought together religious leaders, leading scholars and experts from different countries to discuss the importance of preserving global cultural and historical heritage, as well as to elaborate recommendations for the protection of religious freedom and cultural heritage around the world.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, Catholicos of All Armenian Karekin II delivered a speech at the conference, speaking about freedom, peace and justice.

The ideas of freedom and peace are the same age as in the history of mankind and continue to be relevant today, especially when the existence of violence, conflicts and wars in different parts of the world are often tried to be justified with false agendas of freedom or peace, the Catholicos said in his speech, adding that understandings of the idea of freedom, no matter what foundation they are built on, must be unquestionably called to serve the harmonious and peaceful coexistence of the people.

Peace can bring fruits and remain alive if justice is in place. Forced peace, without justice, gives birth to pain and suffering instead of good, brings hatred and enmity in human life. Despite the universal realization and aspiration to the need of freedom and peace, violence, wars, ethnic hatred, and world-wide crimes based on them have not been overcome in the world to this day. Moreover, such actions continue to be carried out with the application of the latest modern scientific and technical achievements', Karekin II said, adding that the Armenian people have beared the consequences of the violation of freedom and ethnic hatred during its history. '' Such tragic events took place in the life of our people at the beginning of the 20th century, when one and a half million Armenians fell victim to the Genocide in the Ottoman Empire, the Armenian people suffered the greatest loss, being deprived of their historical homeland. The indifference to the first genocide in the history of mankind and the delay in the application of legal remedies led to other genocides, crimes against humanity, the tragic consequences of which were the Holocaust in the middle of the last century, the genocides of Cambodia, Rwanda and Darfur in the late 20th century. We encountered such tragic events also recently, when a large-scale war was unleashed by Azerbaijan against our people living in Artsakh. During the hostilities, which involved the Turkish Armed Forces and international terrorist groups, phosphorus weapon and other banned weapons were used against civilians and civilian settlements. Thousands of people died and became disabled as a result of these tragic events, settlements were destroyed, tens of thousands of families became refugees, many of them, both military and civilian, were taken captive even after the hostilities and are kept in cruel conditions in Azerbaijan to this day, with gross violations of international humanitarian law. We would like to once again express our appreciation to all the international humanitarian, ecclesiastical and inter-church institutions and organizations for their work on the release of Armenian prisoners of war and the preservation of religious and cultural values', the Catholicos of All Armenians said, adding that the bombing and destruction of religious sites during and after the war speak about the Azerbaijani policy of eradicating the Armenian trace from Artsakh, like it happened in 2003, when over 6 thousand cross-stones of the Armenian cemetery in Jugha were destructed, the territory of which was transformed into a shooting range.

At the end of the speech, Catholicos of All Armenians wished the participants of the conference productive work.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. The official visit of Prime Minister of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan to Georgia is over.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the Office of the Prime Minister, in the sidelines of the visit, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan met with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, President Salome Zourabichvili, paid tribute at the "Heroes' Square" in Tbilisi, participated in the dinner reception delivered on behalf of the Prime Minister of Georgia in honor of the Armenian Prime Minister.

Nikol Pashinyan held high-level talks with Irakli Garibashvili, discussing the agenda of Armenian-Georgian relations. A key topic of discussion was the prospect of opening an era of stability, peace and development in the region. The interlocutors agreed to expand the Armenian-Georgian cooperation, to promote the regional dialogue by joint efforts and programs. In this context, the Prime Minister of Armenia also had a productive meeting with the President of Georgia.

The official visit of the Prime Minister to Georgia ended in Batumi with an informal meeting with the Prime Minister of Georgia, during which the programs aimed at the development of tourism and measures aimed at improving infrastructure were presented to PM Pashinyan. The Armenian, Georgian

Prime Ministers expressed satisfaction with the negotiations and agreed to continue active contacts in both official and unofficial formats.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan returned to Yerevan this evening.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. Minister of Finance of Armenia Tigran Khachatryan met with the delegation led by the Head of the European Union Delegation to Armenia, Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin on September 9. The Ambassador expressed the positive position of the EU on the Action Plan the Government of the Republic of Armenia for the next five years, referred to the programs envisaged with EU support, ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the Ministry of Finance.

Greeting the guests, Tigran Khachatryan presented the Governments Action Plan for 2021-2026, as well as the introduction of a public financial management system and the reform strategy. In his speech, the Minister praised the close cooperation established with the EU and highlighted the development of relations with the Union in all directions.

Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin congratulated the Minister on the appointment. The Ambassador referred to the programs planned to be implemented with the EU support, which will be aimed at strengthening democracy in Armenia, stimulating the economy, development of SMEs, energy, infrastructure, etc.

Summing up the meeting, the parties stressed that the comprehensive package offered by the EU to Armenia is not only an opportunity to attract large financial resources, but also to strengthen and reaffirm European values in Armenia.
YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESS. The working visit of the delegation led by the Speaker of the National Assembly of Armenia Alen Simonyan to Vienna continues. Within the framework of the visit Alen Simonyan met with the President of the Austrian National Council Wolfgang Sobotka. The parties discussed in detail the steps to be taken for the immediate release of prisoners of war held by Azerbaijan.

As ARMENPRESS was informed from the press service of the National Assembly, Alen Simonyan highlighted Wolfgang Sobotka's contribution to the deepening and development of the inter-parliamentary and interstate relations between the two countries. According to the head of the parliament, Armenia considers it necessary to take steps to intensify inter-parliamentary cooperation and contacts.

The sides referred to Armenia-EU visa liberalization negotiations. The head of the Armenian parliament stated that today Armenia advocates the agenda of establishing long-term and lasting peace in the region. In its foreign policy, Armenia is guided by the principle of conciliation of interests, which allows Armenia to pursue a balanced and flexible foreign policy.

Wolfgang Sobotka praised the democratic achievements of the Republic of Armenia, a vividly proof of which is the recent early parliamentary elections. It was noted that Armenia welcomes Austria's efforts to strengthen peace and stability in the region, to create an atmosphere of mutual trust, to promote regional cooperation, as well as to resolve the Artsakh conflict within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs.

Wolfgang Sobotka expressed confidence that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be resolved in the format of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs. The parties discussed in detail the steps to be taken for the immediate release of prisoners of war held by Azerbaijan. Alen Simonyan thanked the Austrian parliamentarians for the discussions and statements condemning the aggression during the war unleashed by Azerbaijan against Artsakh in the fall of 2020.
LONDON, September 09, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, the prestigious World Branding Awards, the ultimate global brand recognition accolade  now in its 13th edition, saw 150 brands from 41 countries named "Brand of the Year" in a first-ever virtual awards ceremony held in the history of the Awards. The brands were nominated by over 115,000 consumers from six continents for the special biennial Animalis edition which focuses on awarding the best pet and animal brands from around the world.

Animal Planet, BuddyRest, FRONTLINE, KONG, ORIJEN, Pedigree, Petplan, PURINA Friskies, Rogz, Tetra, and Whiskas, were announced as this years Global Tier winners, amongst others.

Regional Tier winners included Vitakraft and zooplus (Germany), Happi Doggy and Kit Cat (Singapore), and PetSmart (USA), amongst others.

The proud National Tier winners from Turkey included Reflex (Cat Food), Spectrum (Dog Food), and VanCat (Cat Litter), amongst others.

"The Animalis Edition of the Awards honours the best brands in the animal and pet industries around the world and recognises those who have remained at the forefront of consumers minds. Given the challenges the global pandemic has caused to businesses, it is an astounding success, to say the least," said Richard Rowles, Chairman of the World Branding Forum.

"The Animalis Edition of the Awards is very competitive. Brands that win show that they have set the standard for what is expected of other pet and animal brands to be at the top of their game," said Danny Pek, Chief Executive of the Forum.

"A truly exceptional brand has to ensure that people know what they stand for," he added.

The award ceremony saw entrepreneur, Lara Morgan, and media vet, Joe Inglis, deliver keynote speeches to guests.

Now in its eighth year, the awards are organised by the World Branding Forum, a global non-profit organisation dedicated to advancing branding standards.

For more information and the full list of winners, visit awards.brandingforum.org.

Story continues

About the World Branding Forum

The World Branding Forum (WBF) is a registered global non-profit organisation. Its aims and activities are to raise the standards in branding for the good of the industry as well as consumers. The WBF produces, manages and supports a wide range of programmes covering research, development, education, recognition, networking and outreach. For more information, visit brandingforum.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005344/en/

Contacts

Press

Peter Michaels

peter.michaels@brandingforum.org
A Spanish man has been arrested in NSW after the seizure of more than 35 kilograms of cocaine labelled as "roasted coffee", headed for Australia from Colombia.

The packets of cocaine bound for Wollongong as air cargo were allegedly found inside a cardboard box that contained 67 bags of coffee.

In a joint operation between Colombian and Australian police, the cargo was targeted at Bogota Airport late last month.

Colombian authorities seized 35.6 kilograms of cocaine.

On Wednesday, Australian Federal Police arrested a 41-year-old Spanish man in the Wollongong suburb of Port Kembla, where he had been living.

During the search, police allegedly seized 1.84kg of cocaine and located a clandestine laboratory.

The man has been charged with importing a commercial quantity of cocaine, dealing with property suspected of being proceeds of crime, and trafficking.

The maximum penalty is life imprisonment.

AFP Detective Superintendent Craig Bellis said organised crime syndicates continued to target Australia.

"The AFP works closely with its international law enforcement partners to identify and track the movement of illicit drugs bound for Australia because no one nation can tackle the scourge of illicit drugs alone," Det Supt Bellis said.

"Our priority remains the same - identify and prosecute the organised crime syndicates and individuals involved, and stop the flood of these illicit and harmful drugs from reaching our communities."
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Likewise, Haines said, the Schine still qualifies for another $1 million from the state in the form of a Restore NY Communities Initiative grant awarded to the city on the project's behalf in 2018.

However, Bowers owes $9,186.55 in city, county and school district taxes from 2020-2021, city Treasurer Robert Gauthier told The Citizen on Wednesday, plus another $1,380.13 in city taxes from 2021-2022. The developer owed a similar amount last year, prompting the listing of the Schine property in a tax sale, but Bowers paid the debt by that October.

Meanwhile, the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation told The Citizen there have been no changes to the status of the project, but did not provide further comment. The office holds a preservation covenant through July 25, 2036 on the Schine, and therefore must approve any changes there, as a condition of grant money the state has awarded the project.

In October, Licata told The Citizen that the COVID-19 pandemic has slowed the developer's progress on rehabilitating the Schine  and prompted Bowers to reevaluate precisely how it will do so.
There could be changes coming to the New York State Fair's smoking policy.

Gov. Kathy Hochul is directing the state Department of Agriculture and Markets to conduct a review of fairs in New York. One part of the review will examine the state fair's smoking policy.

The existing smoking policy prohibits smoking in certain areas of the fair, including all buildings, picnic areas, the midway and kiddieland. The ban also applies to the grassy area at Chevy Court, the 9/11 and veterans memorials and the State Park at the Fair.

According to the policy, smoking is permitted at the fair "in other general areas that are not prohibited by New York State Law."

The impetus for the review is the legalization of marijuana in New York. Prior to the fair, it was announced that marijuana could be smoked on the fairgrounds.

State Fair Director Troy Waffner told The Citizen on Thursday that because tobacco products can be smoked at the fairgrounds, marijuana smoking was permitted.

"That was an issue this year," Waffner said.
NEW YORK (AP)  Besides packages, UPS is promising to deliver something else fast: job offers.

The package delivery company said Thursday that it plans to hire more than 100,000 people for the busy holiday shipping season, many of whom will get job offers within 30 minutes of applying.

UPS needs to snap up workers as fast as it can because of the tight job market. Competition for hourly workers is fierce, and many companies are offering higher pay, sign-on bonuses and even lowering their requirements, such as hiring those without a high school diploma. Take too long to hire, and an applicant can go elsewhere.

"Candidates want instant gratification," said Matt Lavery, UPS's global director of sourcing and recruiting. "We wanted to take away as many barriers as we could."

The speedy hiring applies to its most common jobs for seasonal workers: package handlers and driver helpers, who take a package from a truck and deliver it to doorsteps, but don't drive the vehicle.
The 2nd Circuit said it was successfully proven that Percoco accepted bribes and promised to perform official actions to further the interests of an energy company, Competitive Power Venture. And it said prosecutors had proven that Percoco, in a second scheme, agreed with Aiello to advance the interests of Aiello's real estate development company, COR Development Co.

The appeals court agreed with lawyers for Percoco and Aiello that a judge's bribery instructions to the jury fell short of the legal standard that was recently clarified in another New York state corruption case, but it said the error was harmless and the jury would have convicted anyway.

Prosecutors declined through a spokesperson to comment. Messages seeking comment were sent to lawyers for Percoco and Aiello, who has not yet reported to prison.

Trial evidence overwhelmingly showed that Percoco and his co-conspirators understood that payments to Percoco's wife for a low-show job as an education consultant" were in exchange for his help in getting energy company CPV a deal requiring New York state to purchase power from the company, the 2nd Circuit said.
The 2020 general election consumed the nation's attention years before it happened, and it continues to do so more than 10 months later. The race for president, of course, was the driver of this historical level of interest.

There's no question that the last election had a profound impact on this country, but when it comes to political campaigns and votes that affect our everyday lives, years like the one we're in now are much more consequential.

Odd-year elections mark contests for local races in Cayuga and Onondaga County, from countywide to town-level seats. For The Citizen, in a coverage area that includes 25 towns and a city, that equates to a big batch of candidates to inform readers about.

The reality is that we can't provide detailed coverage of every person running for local office. For larger stories, debates and profiles, our main focus will be on races for Cayuga County Surrogate Court judge, Cayuga County Legislature and Auburn City Council.

But we also have a tool for connecting all local candidates  by my count more than 175 of them this year  with our readers. That tool is our 2021 candidate guide, which will publish frequently online at the auburnpub.com homepage starting next week. We'll also run it in print closer to the general election on Nov. 2.
There is now an entire generation of Americans who were either not yet born or were too young to have understood the gravity of the situation the country found itself in when terrorists attacked the country on Sept. 11, 2001.

The enormous and shocking loss of life was the primary focus, of course, and the grief of those who lost loved ones that day is still very real 20 years later. Other ripples continue today, with increased security measures being enacted across the country and thousands of American military members being sent into danger zones around the world in what has become known as the War on Terror.

The country and the world were changed that day in big ways and small, and the events have become a part of who we are  whether people are aware of it or not.

And that's why it's so important for the stories to be told and for people to get together for respectful ceremonies of remembrance, so we hope that families will consider attending a local event this Saturday, Sept. 11  and bringing their children along.
We're at quite the inflection point as a nation, where myth has it that we are a democracy. As it was and continues to be in reality, we're a bastion for plutocrats and oligarchs, right-wing manipulators.

Our west is burning up and the east drowning in rain, and we've multi-billionaires competing to see whose rocket comes first.

Every consumable should provide its provider a profit, supposedly that's how markets are supposed to work, yet I'm lost when the workers of said products can barely scratch out an existence, yet their founder/CEO/president, what ever title they may possess, can spend billions on a flight of fancy, piping dreams of escape to the bedazzled and baffled alike.

The once Grand Old Party has succumbed to Elmer Gantry's dopplelganger singing songs of disingenuous promises of a better future if we build walls, ban Muslims, cut taxes for the already rich, impose tariffs and yes, the election was stolen.
Set aside bread, beer and sausages. Germany can claim its fame to fast cars and autobahn, its national highway network. The country is the biggest automobile hub in Europe, being home to some of the major carmakers like Mercedes-Benz, Audi, BMW. It is also home to highways that has no speed limits.

There is Nurburgring for racing, where experts are often seen testing supercars and hypercars, then there is autobahn for the rest of the lot. It is a highway network where driving fast is a licence that no other public roads in the world gives. However, all that could change if reports are to be believed.

As Germany heads to polls later this month, the Social Democratic Party (SPD), led by Olaf Scholz, is seen as the favourite to replace Chancellor Angela Merkel. If the SPD manages to win, they have promised to put a speed limit on autobahn to a maximum of 130 kms per hour (81 miles per hour). The proposal has already received nods from its possible alliance partners the Greens and Left party.

The discussion about a speed limit on German roads has been going on for years. Though a lot of people think autobahn is a highway without any legal speed limit, it is partly true. According to ADAC, Germany's national automobile association, around 40 per cent of autobahn has speed restrictions. There is a speed recommendation of 130 kmph to ensure safety of commuters. The speed restrictions are stricter at curves, near construction sites or cities.

Andreas Scheuer, Germanys Minister of Transport, said, The German autobahns are the safest roads in the world. We tend to have problems with road safety on country roads, that is what our focus must be."

Surprising as it may sound, the proposal to limit speed on autobahn is not due to safety concerns. It is actually to make the environment cleaner.

According to the German Environment Agency, a 130 kmph speed limit on autobahn could bring down greenhouse gas emissions by 1.9 million tons every year, about one per cent of Germanys overall transport emissions. It is nearly five per cent of total vehicular emissions on highways. The emission can drop further if speed limits are reduced more.

Scheuer also thinks that if number of ICE vehicles keep dropping with people opting for cleaner electric vehicles, the emission figures will also drop more drastically. "With automation and autonomous driving, the average speed will drop anyway. A driver of an electric car knows if you change the pace too often or drive too fast, you will quickly run out of range of your car," he added.

Recently, France has implemented a 30 kmph speed limit in most parts of Paris in an attempt to reduce accidents and making Paris more pedestrian-friendly. The French capital joined a list of other cities like Lille, Montpellier, Grenoble, Nantes and Rennes where similar rule already exists. In other parts of Europe, Lausanne in Switzerland or Hamburg, Bremen, Munich and Berlin in Germany also have similar speed limits for vehicles.
War-scattered Afghanistan might be low in terms of industrial richness but the country has the potential to encash its huge reserve of essential minerals. Afghanistan's mineral reserve is valued at up to $3 trillion and a huge chunk of this is attributed to lithium, the most essential mineral required for EV batteries.

Also Read: Taliban on the move: How thousands of desolate Humvees get new owners

According to a US Department of Defense memorandum report published in 2010, Afghanistan is sitting on high-value mineral deposits estimated to be worth between $1-$3 trillion. It has a rich reserve of various minerals including lithium, tungsten, lead, copper, iron, mercury etc. Experts estimate that the country may have the world's largest lithium reserves. In fact, if the lithium reserve in Afghanistan can be extracted, it is estimated it could beat Chile and Australia as well.

Clearly, the country has the potential to fuel the global drive for electric vehicles. The lithium reserve in Afghanistan is capable of reducing the price and scarcity of EV batteries significantly around the world.

The question is, what is barring Afghanistan from becoming the largest lithium source in the world?

Political turmoil

Afghanistan has once again been taken over by the Taliban and the political situation in the country is both fragile and extremely risky. With the pullout of US troops, the security situation has worsened and is worsening by the day.

Any investment in the country is highly unlikely in at least the near future. And even if peace does somehow prevail, the country's record in the past doesn't evoke much confidence for foreign companies to come and invest.

Lack of infrastructure

Despite having a vast reserve for lithium and other rare earth, Afghanistan lacks the infrastructure required to extract those minerals. The demand for lithium, cobalt and neodymium has been increasing worldwide. But, extracting these minerals require huge investment and infrastructure.

Several US, European and Asian companies have shown their interest in setting up mining infrastructure in Afghanistan to extract these minerals. However, the unstable political scenario in the country has barred them from doing so.

What now?

In the current geopolitical scenario, China can strengthen its hold in the EV battery market and global lithium reserve as well. The country has already shown its interest in investing in infrastructures in Afghanistan. It has also shown interest in extending its Belt and Road Initiative in Afghanistan as well.

The US Geological Survey study has revealed that a vast amount of high-value mineral deposits are located along the border with Pakistan. Coincidentally this is the area where conflict rages on. Besides China, Pakistan too might try its hand on the mineral reserves in Afghanistan.

This could propel the growth in the Afghan mineral industry, especially in the lithium and other rare earth required for the EV industry. China already owns the lion's share in the global lithium deposit and mines through various companies in Chile and Australia. It is also known for its aggressive push for electric mobility. The global EV battery market too is dominated by Chinese companies.

With the vast Afghan lithium deposit in China's hands, the country will be able to further strengthen its position in the global EV ecosystem.
TVS Motor Company has launched its new Apache RTR 200 4V (single-channel ABS) motorcycle in the market of Nepal on Thursday.

The new street naked motorcycle from TVS features the first-in-segment adjustable suspension. The front suspension unit comprises telescopic Showa forks with preloaded adjustment, backed up by a new Showa rear suspension.

Other performance-oriented parts on the motorcycle include adjustable brakes and clutch levers with 3-step-adjustment. TVS claims that other refinements in the brake system have been made for sharper and improved brake performance.

(Also Read: TVS Motor likely to launch a new scooter on September 16. Here's what it can be)

Speaking at the launch of the new bike in Nepal, R Dilip, President  International Business, TVS Motor Company, said, The TVS Apache series has been a testament to our commitment to delivering technological prowess to our aspirational customers and racing enthusiasts across the globe. In line with this ethos, we are excited to introduce our new TVS Apache RTR 200 4V motorcycle, which offers key segment-first features and technologies, which will further add to our philosophy of ensuring customer delight in Nepal."

The new TVS Apache RTR 200 4V motorcycle is the only bike in its segment to come with three riding modes - Sport, Urban, and Rain. The company claims that riders can switch between these modes on the go.

Shahil Agrawal, Managing Director, Jagdamba Motors Private Limited, said, The customers of Nepal have always responded positively to the race machine proposition of TVS Apache series. The new edition will only build on the excitement of the youth. We will continue supporting TVS Motor Company in creating a superior riding experience for TVS Apache customers."

(Also Read: TVS Motor Company files trademark for Apache RTR 165 RP name)

The new Apache RTR 200 4V will be available with single-channel ABS in Nepal. There will be a choice of three colour options including Gloss Black, Pearl White, and the newly launched Matte Blue, inspired by the TVS OMC race bike.
Changan Auto Aug. sales drop 7.19% MoM

Beijing (Gasgoo)- Changan Automobile sold 165,143 vehicles in August, down 2.52% year on year and dropped 7.19% month on month. In the first eight months, its cumulative sales raised 32.49% compared to last year, to over 1.5 million vehicles.

Sales of the groups self-owned brands fell 9.74% month over month to 120,753 vehicles, 84,208 of which were passenger vehicles.

Monthly sales of Changan Ford, the joint venture between Changan Automobile and Ford Motor, surged 48.97% from the previous year to 30,135 units, representing a 16.07% increase month on month. However, sales of its other joint venture, Changan Mazda, halved year on year with only 5,456 vehicles sold in August, indicating a 45.47% decline versus the sales results in July.

Changan Mazda acquiring FAW-Mazda (jointly owned by FAW Group and Mazda Motor) in whole may not have a favorable impact on vehicle sales.

In August, with 8,790 vehicles sold by Changan Mazda and 3,738 vehicles delivered by FAW-Mazda, the total retail volume of Mazda Motor amounted to 12,528 vehicles, fell 27.7% year on year. In addition, the Mazda brand has already started down a slippery slope, as the brands China sales peaked in 2017 at 300,000 vehicles and declined 30% to 210,000 vehicles in 2020.
Parts shortage dents Great Wall Motor August sales

Beijing (Gasgoo)- Certain automotive parts supply shortage, such as ESP from Bosch, dented the sales and production output of Great Wall Motors vehicles in August, but the market demand was so strong that many models from the company have received increasing orders.

The top SUV and pickup manufacturer in China sold 74,257 vehicles in August, representing a year-on-year decrease of 16.89% and a month-on-month decrease of 18.9%, the company said. For the first eight months of this year, the automakers total sales amounted to 784,023 vehicles, jumping 39.29% from a year ago.

Currently, the company is taking various measures, such as buying chips across the world, speeding its own chip business development, and enhancing the system building in auto chip field to ease the impact and meet market demands.

Great Wall Motor is accelerating its development and growth in overseas markets. Last month, it sold 12,399 vehicles in other markets, 81.1% more than the sales volume of August, 2020. By the end of August, its year-to-date sales in foreign markets surged 156.8% to 86,509 vehicles, accounting for 11% of the companys total year-to-date sales.

After entering into agreement with Mercedes Benz to buy a factory in Brazil from the Germany automaker in August, Great Wall Motor announced at the IAA show that it will launch the ORA Cat and the WEY Coffee 01 in Europe in 2022. The company aims to introduce more than 5 new energy vehicles in the coming 2 years and more than 10 models by the end of 2025.
Gasgoo Daily: New BYD Song PLUS EV to use Huaweis motor system

With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

New BYD Song PLUS EV starts to use Huaweis motor system

According to information from Chinas Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the new BYD Song PLUS EV turned to adopt Huaweis all-new electric motor system.

Huawei executives pay visit to Dongfeng parts company



Many executives from Huawei, including sales head of Huawei intelligent vehicles solution business unit and general manager of Huaweis company in Hubei province, paid a visit to Dongfeng Motor Parts and Components Group recently. Both parties talked about potential cooperation in connected and intelligent vehicle.

Over 37K vehicles sold during Chengdu Motor Show

A total of 37,730 vehicles were sold during the 10-day Chengdu Motor Show and the sales reached RMB6.516 billion.

New Subaru BRZ comes back to China

The new-generation Subaru BRZ will come back to Chinas market with deliveries to start from the end of March in 2022.

Photo credit: Subaru

Tesla sells 44,264 China-made vehicles in August



Tesla sold 44,264 China-made vehicles in August, jumping 34.26% month over month, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

China's homegrown PV deliveries fall 14.7% YoY in Aug. 2021



In August 2021, around 1.477 million locally-produced PVs (referring to cars, MPVs, SUVs and minibuses) were handed over to consumers in China, representing a year-on-year drop of 14.7% and a month-on-month decline of 3.3%, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

Dongfeng to sell 1.15% stake in Stellantis



Dongfeng Motor Hong Kong signed an agreement with BNP Paribas on September 7. The bank will help to sell Dongfeng Motors 36,060,000 common shares in Stellantis for a total of 600,399,000 euros.

Hesai partners with Black Sesame to promote autonomous driving commercialization



Hesai Technology, Chinas advanced laser radar manufacturer, has officially entered into a strategic partnership with Black Sesame Technologies, a Shanghai headquartered AI company focusing on autonomous driving computing solutions.

GAC FCA said to close Guangzhou plant



GAC FIAT CHRYSLER Automobiles Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as GAC FCA), Stellantis N.V.s Chinese joint venture with GAC Group, will halt work at its Guangzhou-based factory, and shift the production to the factory in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, according to a local media outlet.

Geely invests US$50 million in tech company ECARX



Geely Automobile Holdings Limited has signed a strategic investment agreement with auto intelligence technology company ECARX Technology Co. Ltd., the automaker announced on Tuesday.
Four Japanese automakers see two-digit drop in Aug. China sales amidst chip shortage

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Amid the industry-wide chip shortage, four Japanese automakers all logged double-digit decrease in their China sales last month. Honda Motor was the one suffering the steepest drop in August. In terms of year-to-date sales, Mazda Motor was still the only one posting decrease.



According to Kyodo, Toyota Motor saw its monthly China sales fall 11.9% from a year earlier in August, the biggest decrease it suffered so far this year.

Due to the decline in Aug. sales, the increase in the year-to-date sales of Toyota Motor's China business shrank to 18.7%, versus the 24.2% growth in Jan.-Jul. volume.



In early August, Toyota suspended production at one assembly line in Guangzhou, China, which it operates with its Chinese joint-venture partner GAC Group, according to a person familiar with the matter. After being reached for comment, Toyota China said the shutdown was a fact and it had adjusted its production schedule due to the shortage of chip-related components.

Despite the sales downturn, Toyota still kept enriching the product lineup for its Chinese market. On August 27, FAW-Toyota put the Crown Kluger SUV onto the market, aiming to filling in the gap in market deployment of premium cars.

Kluger; photo credit: FAW-Toyota



The Kluger is the first model under Crown, which was just claimed by FAW-Toyota as a premium car brand in mid-July. Its advent is expected to help the joint venture strengthen its presence in HEV segment and achieve the 1 million-unit annual sales goal by 2022.

Affected by the coronavirus resurgence and auto parts supply constraints, Honda Motor's China unit posted a 38.3% year-on-year slump in August with 91,694 new vehicles delivered. Of those, 17,376 vehicles were equipped with the hybrid powertrain system Sport Hybrid.

Accord; photo credit: GAC Honda



Both GAC Honda and Dongfeng Honda logged two-digit decrease in Aug. deliveries. The joint venture with GAC Group delivered 52,451 new vehicles, representing a 26.3% decline from a year earlier. Meanwhile, 39,243 consumers took delivery of Dongfeng Honda's vehicles, a 49.4% plunge year-over-year.

Honda Motor has never released sales of all-electric vehicles for Chinese market. The company plans to introduce 10 Honda-brand BEV models within five years. The first production model based on the Honda SUV e: prototype is scheduled to go on sale in spring 2022.

According to a media report released in mid-August, Honda will invest about 3 billion yuan ($464.16 million) in an existing factory of GAC Honda to increase its NEV capacity in China. The plan is to add capacity of 120,000 NEVs, with production starting as early as February 2024.

X-Trail; photo credit: Dongfeng Nissan



As of August 2021, Nissan Motor posted year-on-year decrease in monthly China sales for the fourth consecutive month. The external factors accountable for the decline in Aug. sales were still the coronavirus pandemic, shortage of raw material, and natural disaster, the same as the reason the company gave in July.

Last month, Dongfeng Motor Company Limited (DFL)'s passenger vehicle unit, namely, Dongfeng Nissan, delivered 113,166 new vehicles, which were 10.6% fewer than that of the prior-year period. The deliveries of Nissan-branded vehicles stood at 90,018 units, including 15,023 seventh-generation Altimas, 47,937 Sylphys, 5,126 Tiidas, 9,228 X-Trails, and 13,349 Qashqais. Meanwhile, DFL also delivered 5,808 new vehicles under Venucia brand, representing a 13.7% year-on-year growth.

During the past four months, the whole auto industry is facing a myriad of challenges due to external factors, which will also lay many uncertaines in the auto market for the rest of this year, said DFL's president Shohei Yamazaki.

Despite the challenges, Nissan Motor still kept launching new products to meet demands of Chinese consumers. The all-new X-Trail hit the market on Jul. 30 as Nissan's most globalized strategy model. Besides, presale of the Venucia Online V kicked off at the 2021 Chengdu Motor Show.

Mazda Motor Corporation's China deliveries dip 27.7% over a year earlier, suffering two-digit decrease in monthly sales for five straight months. The decrease in its year-to-date deliveries widened to 7.2%, versus the 4.1% drop in the Jan.-Jul. volume.

Changan Mazda saw its July deliveries flop 28.6% to 8,790 units, while FAW-Mazda encountered a 25.4% year-on-year decline with 3,738 vehicles delivered.



Mazda3 Axela; photo credit: Changan Mazda



With a delivery volume of 5,846 units, the Mazda3 Axela was still the best-selling model in August. In the meantime, the deliveries of the Mazda CX-4 and CX-5 reached 2,046 units and 1,727 units respectively.

Mazda Motor's China unit is going through a significant business restructure. Changan Mazda last month filed a request with China's top market regulator to acquire 100% stake in FAW Mazda Motor Sales Co. Ltd. (FMSC) and have signed several agreements with Mazda Motor, and FAW Group for the transaction. As part of solutions for the business merger, FAW Group will acquire 5% stake in Changan Mazda at an assessed consideration of the 60% equity interests it holds in FMSC.

As Mazda Motor's only China joint venture in the future, Changan Mazda will see great expansion of its production lineups and dealership network. The combination of Changan Mazda and FMSC's sales channels would start at the end of August this year, a local media outlet said last month, citing a dealer of FMSC. Nevertheless, the existing sale and after-sale services for FMSC's consumers will not be affected temporarily.
Geely invests US$50 million in tech company ECARX

Beijing (Gasgoo)- Geely Automobile Holdings Limited has signed a strategic investment agreement with auto intelligence technology company ECARX Technology Co. Ltd., the automaker announced on Tuesday.

Under the agreement, Geely will invest about US$50 million for the tech companys 1.51% stake via leading ECARXs B funding round. With the investment, Geelys latest move in the field of auto intelligence, both parties will work closely to build industry-leading intelligent and connected open platform for much more intelligent and safer mobility user experience.

Established in 2016, ECARX commits itself to building an open ecosystem platform for intelligent and connected vehicles with a focus on solutions that encompass the SoC, cockpit and vehicle operating systems, software, autonomous drive solutions and also vehicle driving chip sets.

In 2020 and 2021, the tech company has received strategic investment from Baidu, SIG (Susquehanna International Group, LLP), CVC (Corporate Venture Capital) and Hubei Changjiang Jingkai V2X Industry Fund LLP.

Currently, the tech company has set up offices in Hangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and Dalian in China and Gothenburg in Sweden.




Whether it be at Council meetings, via email or through social media, your words and your actions reflect upon the entire community, Vice Mayor Becky Daggett said. I implore you to take your responsibility as an elected official seriously and conduct yourself accordingly.

Councilmember Jim McCarthy, who attended the mayor's proposed special meeting, defended the councilmembers that were not present, noting that they were either out of town at the Arizona League of Cities and Towns conference or had made prior commitments.

The charge that the councilmembers do not value health and safety, and that they just casually skipped Council meetings is completely unfounded, McCarthy said. Personal attacks on fellow councilmembers and members of the public will not be tolerated. They must cease immediately, and permanently."

The statements by councilmembers were preceded by a public comment from local business owner John Conley, who called for the mayor to resign, citing a significant lack of leadership. Conley, who has lived in Flagstaff for 35 years, said the behavior was unprecedented in the city.
Where the defendant was traveling and where he was at certain times and dates is going to be crucial to this case, Barker said.

Dishman, a retired Army sergeant major, said he has consulted or reviewed cell phone data records for law enforcement hundreds of times in the U.S. and teaches courses on the technology for investigative purposes. He agreed that the cellphone data shouldn't be considered alone.

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I'm using this as bread-crumb activity, he said.

The motion was one of several that Brown Nichols took up during a hearing Thursday that will continue Friday afternoon. She didn't immediately rule on all of the requests, including one from the defense to determine whether statements that Gooch made to a detective were lawfully obtained. She said she needed more time to listen to the interview.

Brown Nichols denied a request from Barker to admit evidence that Gooch might have targeted Mennonites in burglaries as a teenager in Wisconsin. A childhood friend of Gooch's testified Thursday that he didn't recall Gooch saying he disliked Mennonites.

Gooch and Krause didn't know each other, and prosecutors aren't sure why he would have targeted her. Luke Air Force Base in metropolitan Phoenix is about a seven-hour drive from Farmington.
Wednesday, Sept. 8

On this date in 1850, Congress passed the Omnibus Bill, making Arizona and New Mexico one territory with the proviso that Nothing in this Act shall be construed to inhibit the United States from dividing said Territory into two or more Territories.

On this date in 1886, Geronimo and his band were assembled and marched from Fort Bowie to Bowie Station where they were loaded on trains bound for Florida. The 4th Cavalry Regimental Band played Auld Lang Syne as the Apaches boarded the trains.

On this date in 1936, a wild buffalo was discovered 4 miles (6 kilometers) south of San Simon. It was finally chased into a corral on the Melvis Smith Ranch where it tossed range cows over its head.

Thursday, Sept. 9

On this date in 1899, the Southern Pacific train was held up at Cochise and $10,000 stolen. Two Cochise county law enforcement officers were later caught and convicted of the crime.

On this date in 1921, Old Fort Rucker burned. The 42-year-old fort, situated far up in Rucker Canyon in the Swisshelm Mountains, had been serving as the home of cattleman Charles Rak and his wife at the time of the fire.

Friday, Sept. 10
Tucson collected more than $64 million from state sales taxes in the year ending June 30, making up 11% of its general fund revenue.

The complaint about Tucson's vaccine mandate was filed by Sen. Kelly Townsend, a Mesa Republican who has been one of the Legislature's most vocal critics of pandemic restrictions.

Separately, a coalition of educators, parents and advocates has sued to try to undo new Arizona laws that restrict local COVID-19 requirements. A hearing is scheduled for Sept. 13.

At least 29 public school districts in Arizona have enacted their own mask requirements, accounting for more than 334,000 students and nearly 500 schools.

The Arizona Department of Health Services on Tuesday reported 1,982 new cases of COVID-19 and 54 deaths. About 56% of people in the state have received at least one dose of vaccine.

When Tucson officials adopted the vaccine mandate last month, they estimated about 1,000 city employees were unvaccinated. It was not immediately clear how many still haven't received shots.

Brnovich last month published a legal opinion saying businesses can require their employees and customers to be vaccinated against COVID-19 but must allow reasonable religious and medical exemptions. He said government agencies are different because the Legislature specifically prohibited them from adopting vaccine mandates.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
TUCSON, Ariz. (AP)  Democratic state Sen. Kirsten Engel of Tucson resigned from the Legislature on Wednesday to focus on her campaign for the U.S. House.

Arizona's 2nd Congressional District race will be pivotal to the Democratic Party's efforts to retain the U.S. House majority, and this is not an endeavor to be taken lightly," Engel said.

I know how much work it will take to win this district, and I'm ready to take on that challenge whole-heartedly, Engel said in a statement.

Incumbent Democrat Ann Kirkpatrick is retiring. The district, which includes parts of Tucson and southeastern Arizona, has been highly competitive in the past, though it's unknown how the boundaries will change through the ongoing redistricting process.

Engel, an environmental law professor at University of Arizona, is in her first term in the state Senate following two terms in the House. She faces Democratic state Rep. Daniel Hernandez, who is best known as the intern credited with saving former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords when she was shot in the head.

State Rep. Randy Friese, another Tucson-area lawmaker, dropped out of the Democratic primary last week saying he needed to focus on his job as a doctor during the pandemic.
MESA, Ariz. (AP)  Sikh entrepreneur Balbir Singh Sodhi was killed at his Arizona gas station four days after the Sept. 11 attacks by a man who declared he was going to go out and shoot some towel-heads and mistook him for an Arab Muslim.

Young Sikh Americans still struggle a generation later with the discrimination that 9/11 unleashed against their elders and them, ranging from school bullying to racial profiling to hate crimes  especially against males, who typically wear beards and turbans to demonstrate their faith.

As the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11 nears, those younger Sikhs say much more is needed to improve how hate crimes against their community are tracked. The FBI didnt even begin tracking hate crimes specifically against Sikhs until 2015, and many local law enforcement agencies fail to record bias attacks comprehensively.

The onus is on a community organization like ours to identify the problem and then build support to ensure better reporting, said Satjeet Kaur, executive director of the Sikh Coalition. Formed in the wake of Sept. 11, the largest Sikh advocacy group in the U.S. documented more than 300 cases of violence and discrimination against Sikh Americans in just the first few months.
One of the most important lessons from the global war on terrorism is that the United States should be modest about what it can achieve with military force alone. Even the worlds most powerful military failed in its war to defeat the Taliban and stabilize Afghanistan. Addressing the challenges of failed states and violent extremism also requires diplomacy, international development and education for the marginalized populations, including women and children.

And yet, the hard power of military threat will continue to be a necessary component of U.S. foreign policy; the threat posed by jihadists remains potent. Given the magnitude of the 9/11 attacks and the psychological impact on the country, the United States had no choice but to respond. But it did so on al-Qaidas terms, not Americas.

Jihadists seized upon the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan and then Iraq in 2003 as proof that bin Laden was right all along  the U.S. was at war with Islam. Several high-profile incidents  including the torture of captured al-Qaida suspects, the prison for detainees at Guantanamo Bay and the scandal at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq where Muslim prisoners were ritually degraded, abused and humiliated  sullied American soft power, the ability to lead by example.
The Ninh Binh Provincial People's Committee has issued a plan to develop digital enterprises in the 2021-2025 and 2026 -2030 periods in a bid to help local businesses gradually master technologies and build new products, services, solutions and models based on digital platforms, thus promoting the development of digital economy and digital society in a fast and sustainable manner.

Accordingly, the province will accelerate the formation and development of digital firms, create favourable conditions for them to apply achievements of the 4th Industrial Revolution into production and business, thereby contributing to the province's socio-economic development.

Ninh Binh will focus on developing four types of digital firms, including:

Big commercial and service corporations in the socio-economic field that will transform their operations into digital technology and pour investment in core technology;

IT firms pioneer in researching, developing and applying digital technology in production activities;

Startups apply digital technology in producing new products and services;

Startups have innovation and creativity in digital technology.

Besides, the province will create favourable conditions for digital firms to apply achievements of the 4th Industrial Revolution in their production and business activities and commercialize the results of scientific and technological research to contribute to local socio-economic development.

According to the plan, by 2025, Ninh Binh will support local firms operating in the fields of IT and electronics-telecommunications in researching, developing and providing digital products.

In the 2021-2025 period, the province will strive to have at least two new digital firms and three others shifting to digital technology.

It will work to have at least 10 digital firms by 2030, meeting the requirements of building smart urban cities, e-administration, digital economy, and application of digital platforms in all socio-economic fields.

To fulfill the above targets, Ninh Binh has mapped out some specific solutions as follows:

First, disseminating and raising awareness of local people and businesses about developing digital firms and the "Make in Vietnam" strategy.

Disseminating and raise awareness of officials and civil servants about the development and application of digital technology in state management and in socio-economic development; promoting the use of products manufactured by domestic digital enterprises.

Second, improving mechanisms and policies to support digital enterprises' development and creating favorable conditions for them in terms of procedures, market access and providing a pilot environment for them to test new business models and new digital products.

Third, giving orientations and supporting from 1-3 local digital firms in developing key digital products of the province, turning them into a pillar of the province's digital business ecosystem before 2025.

Fourth, supporting small- and medium-sized enterprises in digital transformation by providing training courses, giving consultancy on digital transformation strategies and plans and organizing activities of the network of digital transformation experts.

Fifth, paying attention to developing numerous training forms and attracting human resources to meet the requirements of digital enterprises and digital transformation in small- and medium-sized enterprises.

In order to effectively implement the plan, the provincial People's Committee requires big corporations and enterprises based in the province to research, develop and produce key digital products, especially those in health, education, culture, tourism, environment, urban, transportation, agriculture, industry and commerce sectors.

Digital firms must constantly improve the qualifications of their workforce in a bid to meet their development requirements.

Related departments, sectors and agencies are requested to support digital firms and SMEs in the digital transformation process and application of digital platforms in production and business activities.

At the same time, these departments, sectors and agencies are asked to promptly finalise and implement mechanism and policies to effectively carry out the plan.

Translated by Nguyen Thuy
On September 8, the Taliban announced an acting government in Afghanistan and proceeded to appoint Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhunda as the prime minister of the government.

Speaking to global media at a press conference, a spokesman said the Taliban want "strong and healthy relations with our neighbors and all other countries based on mutual respect and interaction" and vowed to respect international laws and treaties provided they "are not in conflict with Islamic law and the country's national values."

Afghanistan has spent almost all of its contemporary history as a deeply broken and divided country. Unending struggles between various sectarian, ethnic and tribal groups have revolved around a lack of consensus as to who should run the country, and in turn, most of its governments have struggled because they lacked underlying political legitimacy. Be it the Soviet-backed state of the 1980s or the U.S.-backed state that just collapsed, the perpetual crisis of Afghanistan is vested in an inability to create stable, inclusive and trusted institutions that meet the needs of all its people.

The Taliban, after a 20-year hiatus, are now back in power. They claim that this time "it will be different," and the burden of proof is on them to demonstrate such. While America's two-decade crusade and ideological experiment was a horrific, costly and unproductive mistake, the Taliban must illustrate to the world that they are a legitimate, capable and reasoned government that is ready to represent, safeguard and uphold the interests of all of its people, as well as becoming a mature and reliable actor within the international community. The mistakes of the past must be learned. The Taliban must demonstrate that it will not facilitate international terrorism and instability.

Although the group had vowed that the new government would be "inclusive" this time around, international observers noted no women were included. Western media has also persistently run stories reflecting the status of women under the new establishment. While the Taliban have a very strict and conservative interpretation of their religion and traditions, inclusivity and fairness will be key if they wish to create a stable, prosperous and unified country that heals old wounds. This will be an important step in their bid for international recognition.

Many countries have signaled that they are not willing to recognize the new Taliban state at present. Given its previous record, many in the international community doubt the Taliban's words and that of its new government. Seeking recognition or further interaction with other countries must moving away from the past.

However, making these adjustments does not mean the Taliban has to sacrifice its values or ideologies. After all, many countries have sustained ties with highly conservative Islamic states, such as Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The Taliban's new government will have to prove itself to be responsible, pragmatic and trustworthy.

It has repeatedly stated that it sees China as a friend and partner and seeks trade and investment ties with Beijing. China is open to any opportunity to achieve mutual progress and prosperity, but it would ultimately rely on the new government forging stability and demonstrating the willingness to uphold the basic norms of international security. Only then can multilateralism and orderly diplomatic conduct with its neighbors be achieved. This Islamic Emirate cannot just be a parish state.

The new government stands at a crossroads with very important decisions to be made. It must start showing the world what kind of country it will establish and how it will heal Afghanistan's fractured society and build a state in which the people can find support. Only when they successfully achieve this can the ball be rolled forward in bringing the nation out of the horrific cycle of poverty, violence and war that has beset it for decades.

Who will the Taliban choose to be? And what will they do to demonstrate they are capable of governing? All remains to be seen on this interim government. Whatever it does is likely to lay the foundation for what a formal government will build upon. (Source: CGTN)
Those knots feel like an echo of Schrader's First Reformed, with Ethan Hawke as a tormented priest. That movie concluded, memorably, with Rev. Toller wrapping barbed wire around himself. In The Card Counter, nothing gruesome seems near the film's lifeless interiors. But the film's intense quietude and its central character's heavy gravity radiate something ominous. Such a regimented, restrained life is inevitably going to be released. The taut strings will break. Violence (surely) and redemption (maybe) will follow.

Tell is a heightened kind of character  a deadpan noir archetype who mostly expresses himself through the film's narration. But for a movie with moody monologues, it's oddly unstylized in its drab look. Sometimes, The Card Counter risks mistaking airlessness for minimalism.

Tell's rhythms are disrupted when he encounters a young man named Cirk (Tye Sheridan, a more natural presence), the son of a soldier who served years before with Tell. They meet at a presentation Tell wanders into by John Gordo (Willem Dafoe), a retired major now instructing police departments on interrogation techniques. Tell, we learn, served under Gordo at Abu Ghraib. Disorienting, horrifying flashbacks follow. And the cool veneer of The Card Counter snaps open with an unspeakable past.
Wind energy regulations will likely be more stringent in Gage County as the Board of Supervisors works through a series of changes to its policies.

Following multiple public hearings by both the County Board of Supervisors and Planning and Zoning Commission, the board took action on several changes to the regulations during Wednesdays regular meeting.

The board went through each of the proposed changes to the 23 page document during the more than five-hour board meeting Wednesday morning.

All changes voted on by the board are to a proposed document, which will be voted on at a future meeting to gain final approval.

While discussions regarding changes to the amendments date back around two years, board member Emily Haxby presented several additional changes for discussion Wednesday morning that members saw for the first time.

County Board Chairman Erich Tiemann suggested the board move forward with reviewing the regulations, even though planning and zoning officials hadnt seen many of the proposed changes.

You could pull something out of the sky that you want in this because you think its really important, he said. Planning and Zoning has given us a template, thats it. From that point we, work from there.
Kleefisch took aim at Evers immediately, accused him of siding with rioters and not doing more to quell violence that erupted last summer in Kenosha after Jacob Blake, a Black man, was shot by police. She also faulted Evers for closing schools early in the COVID-19 pandemic, but did not lay out any of her own plans for dealing with the increasing spread of the virus other than promising to keep schools open.

He may shut down our schools, he may shut down our economy, he may shut down our churches but today we begin to shut down Tony Evers," Kleefisch said.

Evers' campaign spokesman Sam Roecker countered that Evers has taken bold action to ... clean up the mess" that Kleefisch left behind during the Walker years.

Because of Governor Evers' steady leadership, Wisconsin is bouncing back stronger than before with a record surplus, low unemployment and $4 billion in tax relief delivered in his first term, Roecker said.
"Essential would be instructional pieces attached to the school day," Upham said. "Non-essential would be open houses, dances, those types of situations."

Upham said right now the open houses are postponed, and not canceled. Schools are given some creative leeway in how they want to handle that, he said.

Wednesday afternoon, Burlington Elementary updated its signboard outside of school to say its open house had been canceled. Principal Lori Booke said her teachers are planning a virtual open house, in which presentations, possibly in the form of videos or slideshows, can be sent to parents.

The presentations will address some of the same key goals of an in-person open house, including giving teachers a chance to introduce themselves, share classroom expectations with parents, go over some of what kids will be learning this year and lay out the best way to contact a teacher.

Booke said that though the open house was canceled, the school did have a meet-and-greet the week before school started. At that event parents could come in and drop off supplies, meet teachers, and see who else would be in their child's class.
The statement also blasted the body of examples cited by the Governor's Office to back Gianforte's claim that mandating masks for students was based on "inconclusive research." Adam Meier, director of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, said in the same press release that "a number of" studies indicate that universal mask use among children can adversely affect health and development, particularly among children with learning or developmental disabilities.

One study provided by the Governor's Office was not peer reviewed, the association pointed out, while the second study clearly supported masking, which the association said added to the confusion. Another provided example was not a scientific journal but an article in New York Magazine by an author of several articles contradicting "scientific consensus," and a fourth was about the spread of influenza, not COVID-19, the association's statement read.
The trooper will remain on paid administrative leave during an investigation by the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation and a review by the Morton County State's Attorney.

The trooper's name was not released at a Wednesday press conference held by the Highway Patrol.

"Out of respect to the trooper, the trooper's family, that name will not be released at this point," Iverson said.

Iverson said the trooper's dash camera did not capture the shooting because he had used his car to block the man's vehicle. Morton County Sheriff Kyle Kirchmeier said it wasn't immediately clear whether dash cameras on three deputies' cars recorded the shooting.

None of the officers were wearing body cameras.

The deputies are not on leave, Kirchmeier said. His department will conduct an internal investigation to make sure policies and procedures were followed.

"Our concern is not only for the family of the deceased ... but we want to make sure that both the trooper and the deputies are in good standing and making sure they are recovering and are prepared to continue their jobs," Kirchmeier said.

Iverson on Wednesday offered a word of sympathy from the patrol and the sheriff's office to Knutson's family.
The hospital has put out request for traveling health care workers to help with the surge, but there aren't many available as virus cases have increased around the country, Schaffer said. More than 500 volunteers have stepped up to fill shifts. A significant increase in cases could lead to discussion of delaying elective procedures to free up staff. Sanford has "slightly limited" those procedures, but delaying care could cause the need for more urgent care in the future, Schaffer said. Patients should discuss any surgeries with their doctors.

Schaffer also said that the new cases are a disease largely of the unvaccinated. Data from 22 Sanford hospitals show that of 135 COVID-19 patients, 126 were unvaccinated, and 37 out of 38 intensive care patients were not fully vaccinated. Only one person out of 26 who were on ventilators was fully vaccinated.

Masks in schools

More than 150 North Dakota health care workers have signed an open letter to superintendents, school board members and parents in the state to require masks for students, staff and school visitors, regardless of vaccination status.
Federal and state lawyers will meet in North Dakota next week to negotiate a settlement for money that the state claims it spent on policing protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline.

North Dakota filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2019, seeking to recover more than $38 million in damages from the monthslong pipeline protests five years ago.

State Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem and other state lawyers will meet with attorneys from the Corps and Justice Department at the federal courthouse in Bismarck on Sept. 16. U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal will preside over the negotiations, which are closed to the public.

We will know on the 16th if they are serious in settling, Stenehjem said.

Its the first sit-down meeting with state and federal lawyers to work out a settlement, Stenehjem said. Federal judges handling the case have strongly suggested the negotiations, he said.

If no settlement can be reached, a trial is set for May 1, 2023.

Thousands of pipeline opponents gathered in southern North Dakota in 2016 and early 2017, camping on federal land and often clashing with police. Hundreds were arrested over six months.
While it is beyond question that Rodriguez abducted and murdered Sjodin, the evidence now in the record has led the Court to conclude that errors were made that violate the United States Constitution such that due process demands a new penalty phase trial be held, Erickson wrote.

Erickson referred specifically to McGee's interpretation of sexual assault evidence. The judge said McGee offered opinions during trial that were not in his autopsy reports, namely that semen was found during his examination of the body and that the seminal deposit had occurred within 24 to 36 hours of Sjodins death.

New evidence demonstrates that McGee was guessing and his opinions were not scientifically supported by literature or any other expert who testified at trial, Erickson said.

Few trials are perfect. Admittedly, even fewer trials are riddled with error because expert testimony is later proven to be so unreliable that had all the circumstances been known it would have been inadmissible, Erickson wrote. But, these post-conviction relief proceedings have uncovered credible evidence demonstrating that in the trial of this case, the truth was obscured.

McGee did not immediately respond to a phone message left by The Associated Press.


WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden has announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant.

Speaking at the White House Thursday, Biden sharply criticized the roughly 80 million Americans who are not yet vaccinated, despite months of availability and incentives.

Weve been patient. But our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us, he said, all but biting off his words. The unvaccinated minority can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

The expansive rules mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans. And the roughly 17 million workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.

Biden is also signing an executive order to require vaccination for employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government  with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.
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On Sept. 5, Next Digital, parent media company of the now-liquidated pro-democracy Hong Kong newspaper Apple Daily, announced it will begin taking steps to shut down amid pressure from the citys National Security Law, or NSL.

The NSL bans acts and speech the Chinese communist government consider threatening to national security, including secession, subversion and terrorism.

The remaining four directors of the 26-year old company will step down to best protect shareholders, creditors, and former employees, they said in a statement. The former directors are Chairman Ip Yut Kin, Louis Gordon Crovitz, Mark Lambert Clifford and Lam Chung-Yan.

The Hong Kong Journalists Association distributed cash vouchers to former Next Digital employees, but when the Hong Kong government blocked employees access to their financial assets, the company was unable to pay outstanding wages to about 700 of its employees. The liquidation of Next Digital will allow payments to its staff members.

The Chinese Communist Government, or CCP, has repeatedly painted Next Digital as a threat to Chinese national security, publicly condemning its publications and investigating its headquarters. According to the former directors of Next Digital, the Hong Kong government has never indicated which articles published by Apple Daily violated the National Security Law.

But that did not stop the Hong Kong government from continuing their crackdown on Next Digital. The company gained popularity until its shares were suspended from trading by the CCP in June 2021. This was also the month Hong Kong authorities raided Apple Dailys headquarters and arrested Apple Daily executives on suspicion of colluding with foreign forces. Hong Kong authorities froze Apple Dailys assets and seized the employees bank accounts, resulting in the shutdown of Apple Daily and the publishing of their final edition.

Apple Daily, which published articles vehemently against Chinese communism, also peaked in popularity its final week, selling 1 million copies of its last edition.

Next Digital published the leading pro-democracy voice in Hong Kong. Its founder, longtime Acton friend Jimmy Lai, was a bold contributor to the fight for democracy and freedom.

Lai believes the NSL is an obvious example of the CCPs disrespect for the rule of law. In an interview with the Hoover Institute, he said:  this National Security Law will supersede the rule of law and that it is the death knell of Hong Kong.

Lai is the recipient of Acton Institutes 2020 Faith and Freedom Award. He is also currently serving a 14-month prison sentence in Hong Kong f0r allegedly colluding with foreign forces by funding a campaign that placed ads in American publications such as The New York Times, calling for U.S. sanctions against Hong Kong. On top of that, he is charged with violating the NSL for taking part in an unauthorized assembly during mass pro-democracy protests in 2019.

The 2019 protests prompted the Hong Kong government to impose the NSL in June 2020, on the eve of Establishment Day, the commemoration of the transfer of Hong Kongs sovereignty from Great Britain to the Peoples Republic of China. Since that day, activists, childrens book authors, and individual citizens have been the target of the harsh restrictions that seek to eliminate any public dissent, including the denial of basic human rights.

Hong Kong officials are quick to hit back at Next Digital, accusing them of smearing the Hong Kong NSL. They also defend their arrests of over 100 Hong Kongers, saying the police arrested those based on evidence strictly according to the law.

Next Digital Media was a major proponent of the inherent dignity that the rule of law promotes, protected and sustained by human rights which stem from natural law and democratic ideals. Former Next Digital directors believethat as a result of liquidation, no other rights are safe in Hong Kong.

The media company is hopeful that some of its legacy will live on, with a firm operating in Taiwan that still publishes an online edition, under new owners. Still, Next Digitals shutdown signals a dark new day for Hong Kong, as the CCP continues to restrict free speech.
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A police officer who dragged a schoolboy with autism down a hallway and aimed a kick at him was convicted of assault at a magistrate's court and and found guilty of gross misconduct by a board of his fellow officers. The officer, named as Christopher Cruise, 57, must pay 3105 ($4300) in fines and compensation and was told he would have been fired had he not taken retirement immediately after the incident, which occured at a special education school he was stationed in in Liverpool, England.

In the footage, the boy can be seen on the floor of a school corridor, when Cruise, a former school liaison officer, raises his leg threateningly as if he is going to launch a kick. The boy attempts to crawl through a door before Cruise reaches down, grabs him by the hood of his coat and drags him across the corridor while the boys legs trail behind him. The child was left with injuries to his knee following the attack in January 2020.

Cruise also reportedly threatened another childand a teacher who told him they would file a complaint about the incident. The leniency of the punishment has led to further anger online, especially given how appalling the CCTV footage is.

That said, here's something the U.S. could benefit from having:

His name will also be placed on the College of Policing Barred List.

Correction: Cruise, not Crewe.
On Monday, Marina Verbitsky and her husband and son arrived too late to board their JetBlue flight at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Apparently the boarding doors had closed and Verbitsky tried to convince the airline workers to open them. They refused. She became annoyed and began to curse at the crew. Then they told her that their bags were already on the plane and would be making the trip without her, she really became peeved.

According to police, Verbitsky announced that there was a bomb on the plane. Of course authorities then had to empty the plane and do a search. Guess what. No bomb.

So, the plane's takeoff was delayed and Verbitsky still didn't make the flight because she was (ahem) otherwise detained. From SF Gate:

Verbitsky is now facing a charge of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction, according to the sheriff's office. Her bail was set at $10,000, and a judge ordered her to undergo a mental health evaluation, the Sun-Times reported. Verbitsky posted bail on Tuesday. "It was a mistake," a relative of Verbitsky, who requested not to be named, told the Sun-Times. "She was nervous about the son needing to go to school. It was a mess but it was definitely not meant to be."

(via NextDraft)
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In 1979 I began team-teaching creative writing at the Attica Correctional Facility. The other teacher, Jerome Washington, was a highly regarded writer and activist from Trenton, New Jersey. He was in Attica on a murder conviction. His case was later retried and the charges dropped. My first trip to Attica was for orientation. The head guard dressed me down
If the workers at Mercy Hospital workers approve strike authorization, it does not mean a walkout will necessarily happen. The vote empowers the union to call a strike, should the union decide to do so once a contract expires. By law, a union must give a health care organization 10 days' notice of a possible strike. The CWA said it will announce results of the vote on Friday.

"We strongly believe it is unconscionable that CWA Local 1133 is threatening to take Mercy Hospital associates on strike, particularly as Erie County hospitals like ours continue to care for increasing numbers of Covid patients while managing the ongoing medical and emergency needs on our community," said Catholic Health spokeswoman JoAnn Cavanaugh.

Mercy Hospital will remain "open and operational" if a strike happens there, Cavanaugh said. The health system hopes to settle negotiations with the CWA "without delays or disputes," citing three recent agreements the system reached with SEIU 1199 at its facilities, she said.

The CWA has accused Catholic Health of "severe understaffing" that threatens patient care and has strained employees. The union contends this is a chronic problem, and that Catholic Health needs to hire "hundreds" of new workers to address it.
"They sent me a text that said essentially, 'I am afraid for my position as a shift supervisor. It's best if I have absolutely nothing to do with this,' " he said.

But Starbucks strongly denies any intimidation tactics and said such so-called "listening sessions" have been in place at the company for decades. The company held roughly 2,000 of them across the country last year  175 of which Williams attended herself, Starbucks said.

After the visits, Williams told workers that unionization "could impact your work life for years and change our culture forever," in a letter obtained by The Buffalo News. Issues, such as staffing, training and equipment repairs "can only be solved by us, from within Starbucks," she said.

"We firmly believe that by continuing to work together, without a third party between us, we are best equipped to listen, engage and address issues where needed," Williams wrote.

Stores at 1775 Walden Ave. in Cheektowaga and 9660 Transit Road in East Amherst will file election paperwork this week with the National Labor Relations Board to secure a union vote. They join stores on Elmwood Avenue, on Camp Road in Hamburg and on Genesee Street in Cheektowaga; which filed for elections Aug. 30. A union is supported by the strong majority of workers at all of the stores, workers said.
MORE COVID-19, REOPENING COVERAGE

Joy, anxiety, raincoats and long lines on first day of school for many: Wednesday marked the first day of school for many districts in Western New York, and The News checked in on Sweet Home, Hamburg and Buffalo Public Schools to gauge emotions of a more normal return and a "fresh start"  even if there were a few hitches. Read more

Hochul says requiring vaccines for teens 'an option' as GOP raises alarm: With still only half of eligible 12- to 17-year-olds vaccinated against the Covid virus, Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday that she is not ruling out mandating that the eligible teens get a shot to protect themselves and others against a virus that is still spreading in many parts of the state. Read more

Gusto's Theater Guide for Fall 2021
During a court hearing Thursday afternoon, Wachowiak recounted details from the scene at Bruks' home more than two years ago. It was a hearing that began March 9, 2020, just before the shutdowns triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Wachowiak testified Thursday he asked Yuriy Bruks if his wife had taken any drugs, because he thought the situation might involve an overdose. His wife had been drinking alcohol, Bruks allegedly told him. Tetiana Bruks was about to take a shower when her husband "heard a thump," he told the officer.

As the conversation between Bruks and the officer continued outside the home, Wachowiak said he noticed Bruks appeared "very wet." Bruks told him he was sweating from the shower, and that the shower had still been running when he pulled his wife out of it, the officer testified.

A few hours later, at the Cheektowaga police station, Bruks was in the lobby when Detective Donald Strozyk approached him. Strozyk wanted Bruks' permission to search his home.

"I'd like to speak to my attorney first," Bruks replied, Strozyk testified Thursday.

Near the start of an interview he wound up having shortly thereafter with detectives, Bruks signed a document acknowledging he waived his rights against self-incrimination, two police detectives testified Thursday.
WASHINGTON  The spread of the Covid-19 Delta variant has delayed plans to reopen the U.S. border to Canadians, but the border will open as soon as federal officials deem it safe, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Thursday.

Responding to questions from The Buffalo News after delivering a speech at the National Press Club, Mayorkas offered the most detailed comments the Biden administration has offered to date about why the border remains closed to vaccinated Canadians when vaccinated Americans were admitted to Canada more than a month ago.

"We had hoped that by now, we would have opened up travel through the ports of entry, but regrettably because of the Delta variant, we've been delayed in doing so," Mayorkas said.

America's land borders with Canada and Mexico have been closed to nonessential travel since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Told that the continued closure posed serious concerns to residents of the Buffalo area, Mayorkas said: "So the concern that people in Buffalo have is actually not limited to the people of Buffalo because certainly we have heard of that concern along the northern border with respect to Canada and quite frankly along the southern border with respect to Mexico."

Mayorkas also stressed that federal officials aren't taking those concerns lightly.
Details are still being worked out, but Neguse and other Democrats say the program should pay a living wage'' while offering health care coverage and support for child care, housing, transportation and education.

David Popp, a professor of public administration at Syracuse University, said a key distinction between the original Civilian Conservation Corps and the new climate contingent is that the U.S. economy is not in a depression  great or otherwise  as it was during Franklin D. Roosevelt's presidency.

While U.S. employers added just 235,000 jobs in August, the unemployment rate decreased slightly to 5.2% as the economy continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic.

Most of those being targeted for the new climate corps could find employment elsewhere,'' Popp said, noting a proliferation of help-wanted signs at retail businesses across the nation.

"I don't know that an unemployed coal worker in West Virginia is going to move to Montana to take a minimum-wage job to restore streams,'' he said.

On the other hand, some of his own students are highly motivated by the climate crisis and may want to spend a year or two on an outdoor job that helps address an existential threat to the planet, Popp said.
Sept 9 (Reuters) - Ganfeng Lithium's deal to acquire Argentina-focused Millennial Lithium is under threat after Millennial received a rival takeover offer from a battery maker it thinks is superior to its earlier agreement with the Chinese company.

Ganfeng, one of the world's biggest producers of lithium chemicals for electric-vehicle batteries, looked set to continue a recent run of M&A deals when it announced in July it had agreed to buy all of Millennial for C$353 million ($280 million), or CS$3.60 a share.

However, Canada-listed Millennial said in a filing on Wednesday it had received an "unsolicited non-binding proposal from a foreign-based lithium battery production company," without identifying the bidder.

The new offer values Millennial almost 7% higher at C$377 million, or C$3.85 per share. Ganfeng has been notified of the superior offer and has a "matching period" of 10 business days to propose an amendment of its existing agreement, Millennial said.

Ganfeng has yet to say whether it intends to revise its original offer.

Millennial's shares closed up 14.6% on Wednesday at C$3.78 and were trading up 1.9% at C$3.85 at 1700 GMT on Thursday. The Vancouver-based company has two non-producing lithium brine projects in northern Argentina, Pastos Grandes and Cauchari East.

"We ... see the situation as proof of increasing scarcity of quality upstream lithium assets," Daiwa Capital Markets analysts said in a note on Thursday.

Battery makers are increasingly looking upstream and investing in mines as a way of shoring up supply of key ingredients such as lithium and cobalt amid projections of looming shortages. ($1 = 1.2625 Canadian dollars) (Reporting by Tom Daly; editing by David Evans)
Mr. Tucker joins the next-gen investment firm to build out venture capital investment strategy; Notable companies in Manhattan Wests venture capital portfolio include Klarna, Lamba School and SpaceX

LOS ANGELES, September 09, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Manhattan West, a modern investment company with a vertically integrated platform of in-house services and investments, is pleased to welcome Reginald "Reggie" Tucker to the Venture Capital team as Managing Director. Mr. Tucker brings more than a decade of experience to Manhattan West, as a capital allocator in both public and private markets, venture capital and private debt. He will bring his deep network of limited partner and general partner relationships to the organization as it builds out its venture capital division, complementing the firms private equity, real estate and private debt investment strategies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005191/en/

Mr. Tucker brings more than a decade of experience to Manhattan West, as a capital allocator in both public and private markets, venture capital and private debt. (Photo: Business Wire)

Manhattan Wests entrepreneurial, energetic culture, and unique geographic and relational access to the fast-growing venture capital ecosystem in Los Angeles attracted Mr. Tucker to the firm. He joins a highly skilled, well-credentialed team with deep experience as allocators, investors and entrepreneurs that have generated significant momentum in recent months.

"Im thrilled to have the opportunity to join an emerging, minority-owned firm like Manhattan West with such a depth of investment experience, talent and intellectual capital," said Reggie Tucker, Managing Director - Venture Capital, Manhattan West. "Its an honor to join a firm where my core values and investment philosophy align perfectly. We think differently as investors and as a team, and our collective support for each individual investment strategy across the others on the platform will enable us to build several disruptive, leading-edge funds."

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Mr. Tucker will be charged with building Manhattan Wests new venture capital growth opportunities fund leveraging his markets, fundamental investment decision making, creative investment structuring expertise and broad network. His first fund will allocate across the venture capital opportunity set through fund investments, co-investments and directs as well as strategic investments in emerging and high-growth opportunities primarily in early to growth-stage.

"An investor of Reggies caliber and background joining Manhattan West signifies a true inflection point for the firm," said Lorenzo Esparza, CEO, Manhattan West. "Not only is Reggie uniquely skilled at sourcing opportunities across both hard to access funds as well as new and emerging firms and co-investments, but hes truly a leader in his field. Above all that, he will elevate our culture and is the perfect fit for the next-generation investment platform that we are building at Manhattan West."

Prior to joining the team at Manhattan West, Mr. Tucker served as Managing Director at Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) for the past two-plus years where he had oversight of all private markets. There he had direct oversight over more than $500 million in capital commitments per year as he helped build out the private equity and venture capital programs and related co-investment strategy. He also contributed to sourcing and evaluating new, niche and non-traditional investments for the "unique strategies" asset class. Mr. Tucker has held investment leadership roles at the New York State Common Retirement Fund (NYCRF) and the State of Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds (CRPTF).

Manhattan Wests vertically integrated platform of services and investments represents the make-up of a next-generation investment firm. Its creative thinking and "get things done" environment empowers the team to focus on establishing a high degree of trust with its clients, partners and shareholders while executing on strategic initiatives through its pragmatic approach and delivering high-quality results.

About Manhattan West

Established in 2016, Manhattan West was launched by a group of financial professionals that departed J.P. Morgan. Immediately, a culture of financial innovation took root and the business has been evolving ever since. With the addition of highly skilled professionals from elite schools and impressive work pedigrees, Manhattan West services high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients and families. Manhattan West provides financial services including business management, tax, insurance and planning. Additionally, clients have access to alternative investments in real estate, venture capital, private equity and private debt instruments. To learn more about us, please visit manhattanwest.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005191/en/

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Thailand hopes to welcome tourists to Bangkok, top cities next month Boats that are used to transport tourists around the Chao Phraya river are seen idle in downtown Bangkok

By Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand plans to reopen Bangkok and other key destinations to foreign tourists next month, officials said on Thursday, aiming to revive its battered travel industry after indications the number of new coronavirus infections may have peaked.

Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya and Chiang Mai will be added to a programme in which fully vaccinated visitors who commit to a series of tests can enter, under certain criteria, said government spokesman Thanakorn Wangboonkongchan.

The scheme is underway on the islands of Samui and Phuket https://reut.rs/3nioKWn, where about 70% of the local population were required to be fully inoculated https://reut.rs/3hhiGKa.

The plan to allow quarantine-free entry initially announced in June https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/thailand-targets-reopening-within-120-days-economy-flounders-2021-06-16 was questioned after new daily infections soared in August to as high as 23,000, with record fatalities on many days.

On Thursday Thailand reported 16,031 new infections, among more than 1.3 million overall, the majority since April. It has recorded 13,731 deaths.

Bangkok's reopening would be partial, however, starting with areas popular with visitors, Tourism Authority of Thailand governor Yuthasak Supasorn told Reuters, without elaborating.

Yuthasak is targeting 1 million visitors to Thailand this year. That compares to nearly 40 million in 2019.

About 88,000 have been recorded so far this year, a third of which went to Phuket, which opened in July.

Vaccinations could be an obstacle to an October reopening, however, with only 34% of Bangkok residents fully vaccinated so far, and just 15% of people nationwide given the required two doses.

It also comes as some countries place restrictions like quarantine on arrivals from Thailand, in part due to that low rate, including Britain https://reut.rs/3E15cM9, a key market.

Local hotel operators, however, hope slowing infections and more vaccinations will help.

"We hope that this particular situation resolves itself in time for this critical booking period," said Frederic Varnier, who manages Minor International's Anantara resorts in Phuket.

(Reporting by Panarat Thepgumpanat and Chayut Setboonsarng; Editing by Martin Petty)
Guantanamo Bay galvanised some in the Middle East against the US

What lessons, if any, have been learned from the 20 years of fighting terrorism across the world? What has worked and what hasn't? And today, as Afghanistan is once more ruled by the movement that sheltered al-Qaeda, are we any wiser than we were on the morning of 11 September 2001?

For an America reeling from the worst ever terrorist attack on the continental USA, the world was seen by some in sharp contrast. There were the good guys versus the bad guys. "Every nation, every region," declared President George W Bush, nine days after the 9/11 attacks, "now has a decision to make. Either you are with us or you are with the terrorists".

A so-called "War on Terror" had been declared. It has since led to the invasion of Afghanistan, then Iraq, to the rise of Isis and the proliferation of Iranian-backed militias across the Middle East, and the deaths of thousands of servicemen and women and many more civilians.

Terrorism has not been eliminated - every major European country has suffered attacks in recent years - but there have been successes too. To date, there has never been an attack approaching the scale of 9/11. Al-Qaeda's bases in Afghanistan were destroyed, its leaders hunted down in Pakistan. The self-declared Isis caliphate that terrorised much of Syria and Iraq has been dismantled.

The list below is doubtless contentious and it is far from comprehensive. It is based on my own observations of covering this subject across the Middle East, Afghanistan, Washington and Guantanamo Bay.

1. Share vital intelligence

The clues were there but nobody joined up the dots in time. In the months leading up to 9/11, America's two primary intelligence agencies, the FBI and the CIA, were both aware that some kind of plot was in the wind.

But such was the rivalry between domestic and overseas intelligence-gathering that they kept what they knew to themselves. Since then, the 9/11 Commission Report has exhaustively trawled through the mistakes made and major improvements have been made.

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Visiting the US National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Virginia in 2006, I was shown how 17 US agencies now pooled their intelligence on a daily basis.

Britain set up its own fusion centre: the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) where dozens of specialists from MI5, MI6, Defence, Transport, Health and other areas all sit together inside one building on London's Embankment, providing a continual assessment of the ongoing terror threat to UK nationals at home and abroad.

The city of Manchester mourned bombing victims in 2017

But the system is not perfect. Two years after the JTAC was established al-Qaeda carried out the 7/7 London bombings, using British nationals to kill more than 50 people. A massive plot to bomb multiple airliners in mid-flight was averted the following year with the help of Pakistan but Britain still suffered multiple attacks in 2017 including the Manchester bombing.

So even good intelligence-gathering and sharing can fail to prevent attacks if the wrong decisions are taken on prioritisation of tasks.

The 2015 Bataclan attack in Paris, which killed 130 people and for which the trial is currently under way, was partly the result of a failure by European authorities to share timely intelligence across borders.

2. Define the mission and don't get distracted

Of all the many reasons why Afghanistan has reverted to Taliban rule, one stands out: the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003. This ill-fated decision became a massive distraction to what was going on in Afghanistan.

Many US and British Special Forces, who had been successfully hunting down al-Qaeda operatives and working with Afghan partners to keep Taliban insurgents on the back foot, were withdrawn and sent to Iraq instead.

This allowed the Taliban and others to regroup and come back stronger. By November 2003, when I visited a US infantry outpost in Afghanistan's Paktika province, Americans were already describing their mission there as "Op Forgotten".

It is easy to forget that the original mission in Afghanistan was clear-cut and well-executed. After the Taliban rulers refused to hand over the perpetrators, the US teamed up with the Northern Alliance (Afghans opposed to the Taliban) to successfully drive out both the Taliban and al-Qaeda.

But in the years that followed the mission then got diluted, spinning off in numerous directions.

Life improved immeasurably during that time for most Afghans but billions of dollars spent on "nation building" have been squandered through corruption and waste.

3. Choose your partners carefully

Britain's partnering with its closest ally, the US, in the 2003 invasion of Iraq meant that the UK was the junior partner in nearly all the key decisions that followed during the subsequent occupation.

Urgent pleas not to disband the Iraqi army or ban all members of the Baath party from government roles were ignored or overruled. The result was a catastrophic alliance between disgruntled and newly unemployed Iraqi military and intelligence officers with fanatical jihadists. This became Isis.

The collective panic that followed 9/11 meant that US and British intelligence ended up cooperating with certain regimes with appalling human rights records. These chickens came home to roost.

For example, after Colonel Gaddafi's hideous regime in Libya was overthrown in 2011 journalists found a letter from a senior MI6 officer to his Libyan counterpart that discussed the extradition of an Islamist dissident to face arrest and mistreatment.

Today, violent jihadism is most resurgent in the poorly governed or ungoverned parts of Africa, posing a problem for who exactly the West should partner with.

4. Respect human rights or lose the moral high ground

Time and again people in the Middle East have told me: "We may not have liked US foreign policy but we always respected its rule of law. Until Guantanamo Bay."

Rounding up suspects "on the battlefield" - including in a few cases innocent civilians who had been sold for a bounty - and then wrapping them in nappies, goggles and earmuffs to be transported halfway across the world to a US naval detention centre on Cuba did untold damage to America and the West's reputation.

Detention without trial was something that happened in autocratic countries back home. Arabs did not expect it of the US.

Worse was to follow, with revelations of "enhanced interrogation", waterboarding and other mistreatment at CIA black sites where suspected terrorists simply disappeared. The Obama presidency put a stop to this but the damage was done.

5. Have an exit plan

The western interventions that preceded 9/11 were relatively quick and simple by comparison. Sierre Leone, Kosovo, even the Desert Storm campaign of 1991 - all had a finite ending.

But the US-led invasions of Afghanistan and then Iraq have resulted in what have been called "the forever wars". No one involved back in 2001 or 2003 envisaged that they would still be there two decades later. Put simply, the West did not understand what it was getting into and there was no realistic exit plan.

There is no doubt that if the West had not displaced the Taliban and Al-Qaida in Afghanistan in 2001 then more attacks from there would have ensued. The counter-terrorism mission in that country was not a failure but the nation-building one was never completed.

And today, the one abiding image most people will take away is that of desperate Afghans running alongside a departing USAF C17 transport, trying to escape the country the West has now all but abandoned.
IT Security

Ransomware Attack Disrupts Online, Hybrid Classes at Howard University

Washington, D.C.'s Howard University announced this week that its online and hybrid classes have been suspended in the wake of a ransomware attack. All university classes were cancelled on Tuesday, Sept. 7, and though in-person classes resumed on Wednesday, remote options remained on hold.

According to a university news release, the universitys IT team noticed unusual activity on the schools network on Friday, Sept. 3. Officials shut down the university network  including campus WiFi  over the three-day weekend in accordance with its cyber response protocol and to mitigate potential criminal activity. The release confirmed that the university experienced a ransomware attack and that the Enterprise Technology Solutions (ETS) department is working to address the incident and resume normal operations.

The university said that it will provide daily status updates to the community. According to Tuesdays update, the university is currently working with leading external forensic experts and law enforcement to fully investigate the incident and the impact. To date, there has been no evidence of personal information being accessed or exfiltrated; however, our investigation remains ongoing, and we continue to work toward clarifying the facts surrounding what happened and what information has been accessed.

The university is in the process of deploying an alternate WiFi system on campus. In the meantime, the universitys physical campus opened Wednesday to essential employees. Faculty may be able to access online academic modules and apps through wireless hot spots. Both of the universitys dining halls remain open, and nonessential employees have been asked to stay home.

According to the Washington Post, cyberattacks have been increasing recently, and they are especially prevalent during holidays and weekends while offices are closed. The University of California System experienced a cyberattack in spring 2021, and the University of Utah paid a $450,000 ransom to hackers in August 2020.

Theres been some big-name universities involved. Howard is just the latest one. Universities can be perceived by bad guys as having deep pockets. As long as people pay the ransom, its going to keep happening, said Lisa Plaggemier, National Cyber Security Alliance interim executive director.
Research

Survey: Accessibility Challenges Persist as Hybrid and Online Learning Continues

With fully online or hybrid course formats still very much in play at colleges and universities around the world, accessibility issues remain a key challenge, according to a recent study. To find out the state of accessibility in higher education, transcription and captioning company Verbit commissioned a survey of both higher ed professionals and students in North America, the United Kingdom and Australia about accessible materials and technologies in use on their campuses, their familiarity with students' accessibility needs, and the pain points involved. Respondents numbered 132 campus leaders and 100 students with a noted disability; responses were collected between April and May of this year.

The majority of respondents (72 percent) said their institution currently conducts at least half of all courses virtually or online, and 85 percent said they plan to continue in a fully online or hybrid format through the Fall semester. Most schools (89 percent) are using web conferencing tools for synchronous classes, with the most popular platforms being Microsoft Teams (77 percent), Zoom (62 percent) and Google Meet (57 percent).

More than half of respondents (54 percent) said that student engagement is currently their biggest challenge. Institutions have employed a number of strategies to help keep students engaged in remote learning environments. The top method used: sharing more videos to enhance lectures, cited by 93 percent of respondents. That's followed by creating opportunities for peer-to-peer engagement (86 percent), using interactive technologies (80 percent), encouraging students to keep video cameras on (79 percent), offering assistive technologies (79 percent), conducting attendance-based activities that affect grades (73 percent) and incorporating more Universal Design for Learning principles (66 percent).

Accessibility challenges ranked in the top three pain points for institutions, after student engagement and retention. And 75 percent of respondents suggested that COVID-19 had played an evident role in impacting inclusion and accessibility at their schools. The top challenges holding institutions back from investing more in accessibility: lack of budget and/or resources (cited by 40 percent of respondents), lack of buy-in for accessibility/inclusion technologies (38 percent), lack of staff knowledge (38 percent), lack of awareness of existing solutions (35 percent) and lack of time (27 percent). Another key factor: Less than half of students actually disclose their disabilities, according to 94 percent of survey respondents.

The most commonly offered accessibility accommodations for students include: recording and transcribing lectures (cited by 50 percent of respondents), providing live captioning and transcriptions during lectures (44 percent), providing note-takers (44 percent), recording lectures without transcription (35 percent), providing sign language interpreters (35 percent) and offering audio description (35 percent). But these types of services are rarely provided proactively: Just 8 percent of respondents said accommodations are in place everywhere throughout the institution. For many institutions, accommodations are provided only when a student reports a need for their classes to the disability department (cited by 46 percent of respondents), when a student requests them for specific content (41 percent) or when designing a new academic program (41 percent).

Ultimately, nearly all students surveyed (92 percent) said that high-quality accessibility tools and accommodations have a positive impact on their learning and engagement.

"Since these technologies do make a substantial difference to learners, it's likely that institutional leaders who do more to suppress faculty fears associated with using them and encourage more training will witness improved engagement, retention and success for their students," the report concluded.

The full report is available on the Verbit site (registration required).
A Cornell man has been charged with sexually assaulting an intoxicated woman at his home in early July.

Adrian L. Palmer, 40, 27272 225th Ave., was charged in Chippewa County Court with two counts of second-degree sexual assault of an intoxicated victim and one count of possession of methamphetamine.

Judge Ben Lane released Palmer on a signature bond.

According to the criminal complaint, the woman told police she was sexually assaulted by Palmer at his home on July 3. She had been at a street dance and had consumed multiple drinks that evening. She said Palmer took her to his home and sexually assaulted her there. She attempted to stop him, and said that intercourse was not consensual.

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Police performed a search warrant of Palmers home on July 20, where they located the meth. He was arrested the next day. He admitted to police he had sex with the woman, but claimed it was consensual.

Palmer appeared in court Tuesday afternoon, where he informed the court he was applying for a court-appointed attorney. Judge Steve Gibbs set a return date for Oct. 12.
MILWAUKEE  One person was killed and two others were seriously injured when a law enforcement pursuit ended with a crash in Milwaukee, authorities reported.

According to the Milwaukee County Sheriffs Office, all three people were in a vehicle being pursued by the Wisconsin State Patrol Wednesday night.

The State Patrol attempted a traffic stop, which led to the pursuit that ended when the fleeing vehicle crashed near an Interstate 94 exit ramp west of American Family Field.

A 26-year-old man died at the scene. Two others in the vehicle were seriously injured, but are expected to survive, officials said.

Milwaukee police are assisting the State Patrol in the investigation.

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A functional Natural Resources Board would acknowledge that Wisconsin residents are overwhelmingly opposed to another wolf hunt this November. In fact, a recent poll conducted by Remington Research Group and commissioned by the Humane Society of the United States found that nearly 70% of likely 2022 Wisconsin voters do not want the November hunt to occur because of the devastation to wolf family packs caused by the February hunt. The board continues to ignore the will of Wisconsinites despite continued public outcry at the past nine NRB meetings.

Not having a wolf hunt this fall is not just what people want; its what science and ethics demand. As top carnivores, wolves are crucial to mitigating ailments like chronic wasting disease in deer, and the beneficial ecosystem services they provide cascade throughout our forests.

The most common justification used by those few who want to trophy hunt wolves also falls apart under scrutiny. To put it simply: randomly killing wolves through trophy hunting and trapping does not protect livestock. Non-lethal methods, such as fencing, devices emitting noise and light, guardian animals, and proper carcass disposal are more effective at preventing conflicts with wolves from happening in the first place. Non-lethal tools simply work better.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The country's billionaires have already recovered from pandemic losses, with the heirs of the late taipan Henry Sy, Sr. still leading the pack with a collective net worth of $16.6 billion.

Based on the 2021 Forbes' list of the Philippines' 50 richest, the billionaires realized "a robust recovery" as their combined wealth jumped by 30% to $79 billion.

"Despite the ravages of COVID-19, the economy notched up double-digit growth in this years second quarter. Investor sentiment remained buoyant, fuelling a 13% rise in the benchmark stock index from a year ago," it said in a statement Thursday.

"The wealth of more than half the list members was up this year with four listees adding over $1 billion each," Forbes added.

The Sy siblings, namely Teresita, Elizabeth, Henry Jr., Hans, Herbert and Harley of the SM Group, gained $2.7 billion, securing the top spot anew with $16.6 billion.

Former senator and property giant Manuel Villar held on to his second spot as his net worth rose by $1.7 to $6.7 billion. Ports giant Enrique Razon, Jr. came third with a $5.8 billion fortune.

The top 10 richest in the Philippines are:

1. Sy siblings ($16.6 billion)

2. Manuel Villar ($6.7 billion)

3. Enrique Razon, Jr. ($5.8 billion)

4. Lance Gokongwei and siblings ($4 billion)

5. Jaime Zobel de Ayala ($3.3 billion)

6. Dennis Anthony and Maria Grace Uy ($2.8 billion)

7. Tony Tan Caktiong ($2.7 billion)

8. Andrew Tan ($2.6 billion)

9. Ramon Ang ($2.3 billion)

10. Ty siblings ($2.2 billion)

For the first time, Dennis Anthony Uy of fiber internet provider Converge ICT joined the list after the company went public and gained from the strong demand for connectivity amid the pandemic.

Forbes also said Betty Ang, co-founder and president of Monde Nissin, was considered as 2021's biggest percentage gainer. Ang climbed 20 spots to rank 18 after her wealth surged to $1.7 billion following the group's market debut.

The IPO produced three newcomers: Monde Nissin chairman Hartono Kweefanus (No. 11, $1.95 billion); the companys CEO Henry Soesanto (No. 25, $795 million); and brothers Keng Sun and Peter Mar (No. 35, $410 million), heirs to a biscuit business that was sold by their family to Monde Nissin.

Tycoon Lucio Tan, whose empire covers liquor and airline, saw his wealth decline to $1.9 billion. Tan-led Philippine Airlines recently filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The countrys trade deficit widened by 54.1% in July from the same month a year ago, the Philippine Statistics Authority reported Thursday.

Data from the agency revealed the difference between total exports and imports stood at $3.29 billion during the month, up from $2.13 billion in July last year. The latest deficit is smaller than the $3.39 billion tallied this June.

Total export sales climbed by 12.7% in July to $6.42 billion, noted the PSA.

All exported commodity groups registered positive growth rates during the period except for machinery and transport equipment, which logged a 5.4% decline. Coconut oil performed best among the groups with an annual 207.7% growth rate.

China replaced the United States as the Philippines top major trading partner in July. Exports to Beijing amounted to $1.04 billion, followed by Washington at $1.03 billion. Completing the pack were Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore.

The countrys overall imports also grew during the period, standing at $9.71 billion  a 24% increase.

Save for miscellaneous manufactured articles which contracted by 8%, all major commodity groups for imports expanded in July. Mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials topped the list, improving by 84.9%.

Philippine trade numbers reflect the gradual reopening of the economy although the (year-on-year) figures may have been bloated due to base effects, said ING Bank senior economist Nicholas Mapa on the latest figures.

Mapa also noted that trade activity might fall in August with the return of stricter lockdown measures during the month as authorities aim to quash the Delta-driven surge in COVID-19 infections.

Nonetheless, we forecast import growth to continue to outperform the export sector with the trade deficit likely staying elevated for the balance of the year, he noted.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  For the team behind online dictionary Marayum, their mission could not be any clearer: help the countrys indigenous communities keep their treasured languages.

The dictionary-making tool, which is financed by the Department of Science and Technology, currently has four languages  Asi, Kinaray-a, Cebuano and Hiligaynon  and the team is in talks with different language communities to widen its reach with 13 additional dictionaries.

Project leader Mario Carreon noted that the Philippines has 186 languages  34 of which are endangered, 11 are dying, while two have become extinct.

When a language is lost, you lose the spirit of the culture. Its really heartbreaking, Carreon told CNN Philippines.

Carreon, an assistant professor at the Department of Computer Science of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, said the community itself uploads and maintains the Marayum dictionary.

"What the website does, it just simply abstracts the community from the need to have technical knowledge in Information Technology to have an online dictionary of their language," he added.

Native speakers of an indigenous language can serve as contributors, he said, adding that the team recommends individuals with linguistic training to serve as reviewers or editors.

The Marayum team is comprised of UP graduates from various disciplines.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 10)  Ombudsman Samuel Martires proposed to enforce stringent penalties against individuals commenting on the Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALNs) of government officials.

I want to reconcile (Republic Act) 6713 with (Republic Act) 3019 on the SALN, provide safety nets so that a SALN can be published, but no person should be allowed to comment on the SALN of a particular government official or employee," Martires said during the House committee on appropriations budget hearing for his office.

What I'm proposing is to make stringent penalties that anyone who makes a comment on the SALN of a particular government official or employee must likewise be liable for at least an imprisonment of not less than five years, he added.

R.A. 6713 is the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, while R.A. 3019 is the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

A section of RA 6713 states that it is unlawful for anyone to obtain or use any statement, like SALNs, filed under the law for any purpose contrary to morals or public policy; or any commercial purpose other than by news and communications media for dissemination to the general public.

Bayan Muna party-list Representative Carlos Zarate pointed out that the Ombudsmans proposal is dangerous since those making commentaries are also guaranteed of the freedom of expression under the Constitution.

Martires remained firm, saying he will not yield to public opinion to release the SALN of any public official since this will violate Memorandum Circular No. 1, which he issued last year. The circular requires consent from the owner of the SALN for its release.

I am sorry to say that. I am willing to be removed from office to defend the memorandum circular I issued, he said.

Malacanang earlier said it is up to the Ombudsman to release the SALN of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The President last released his SALN in 2017. He declared a net worth of 28.5 million.

Ombudsman protecting top officials from the public?

For detained Senator Leila de Lima, Martires' actions show he wants "to protect public officials from the public, instead of investigating their wrongdoing."

His proposal to penalize those who would comment on SALNs would mean he has forgotten all Constitutional Law lessons he learned and wrote as a Supreme Court Justice, De Lima added.

During the hearing, Martires also questioned the public's interest on the SALN of top officials, specifically of Duterte.

De Lima hit back, saying: "Well, because the President is the highest official of the land, and therefore the people are more interested in his honesty and integrity than the rest of officialdom."

"Under his watch, Martires has undeniably stood the Office of the Ombudsman on its head, lacking the requisite zeal in running after corrupt public officials and even perceived to be protecting instead of investigating them. If it was all left to him, perhaps, I am sure he won't even investigate and prosecute the suspects in the Pharmally heist, especially if they include his patron Duterte," the senator added.

"For Ombudsman Martires, his job as Ombudsman is clear: keep the President's SALN away from the public, as he has already done after denying the request made by my lawyers, and protect the interests of public officials, rather than that of the public," De Lima said.

CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this report.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 8)  Some members of the restaurant industry and a local official decried the national government's last-minute announcement that Metro Manila will not yet ease to a more relaxed community quarantine status.

The retraction led to loss of money, effort, and time, restaurant owner Inchang Mendoza, Vikings Buffet Restaurant marketing consultant Stella Sy, and Manila City Bureau of Permits chief Levi Facundo lamented.

The Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) announced on Sept. 4 that the National Capital Region (NCR) will shift to general community quarantine with granular lockdowns.

Three days later, the government announced it will push through but the guidelines are being finalized for the implementation on Wednesday.

On Tuesday night, however, officials backtracked, saying the NCR will stay under the strict modified enhanced community quarantine until the experimental policy is finetuned.

Mendoza said her staff held several meetings and cleaned up the entire restaurant located in Manila in preparation for its much-awaited reopening.

They also bought hundreds of kilos of pork, chicken, and beef for the opening of the samgyupsal restaurant. she added.

The entreprenuer said she realized the meat and poultry products will go to waste since restaurants will remain prohibited from operating under MECQ to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

She said small businesses that are already bleeding from a year and a half of restrictions are suffering more because of the government's lack of planning.

Mendoza added she also worried about her 27 employees who are not getting paid if they do not go to work.

"Dear goverment, maawa naman kayo sa mga taong sobrang naapektuhan na nagta-trabaho ng maayos!" she said in a Facebook post. "Hindi kayang sumurvive ng small business owner sa ganyang eksena ng gobyerno!!! Bigyan niyo kami ng maayos na plano!!

[Translation: Dear government, have some heart for those wanting to work who are severely affected! Small business owners cannot survive if the government continues to perform like this! Give us concrete plans!]

Restaurant owners also criticized the government back in August when the IATF suddenly barred dine-in and al fresco dining when Metro Manila shifted to MECQ.

Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Final Word, Sy shared the same experience for the food chain.

"Kahapon ang saya-saya na (Yesterday we were all happy)...we were all excited kasi (because) it's been 40 days na walang pasok ang mga employees (that employees are not able to go to work). Out of 11 Vikings, we only had two stores open for the takeout pero ilan lang silang pumapasok (but only a few go to work)," Sy said.

However, the government's constant change in policy required them to always adjust marketing budget, she said. Stocks they bought for the reopening would now have to be sold as well, she added.

"Mahirap iyong ginagawa nila (What they are doing is very challenging for us) because it's been how many months na wala kaming negosyo (that we have no operations) for the buffet business," Sy said.

She also noted how this affected their employees who have to look for sideline work while their business is temporarily closed.

Sy added that the government should compensate losses of businesses due to their flip flopping.

Facundo, meanwhile, said his team dropped other important tasks just so they can accommodate the opening of essential businesses slated for Wednesday.

I just hate the fact that a lot (of) time was wasted," Facundo said in a statement posted by the Manila Public Information Office. "The most expensive investment we put in is time. We cannot bring it back anymore!

The Manila City official urged the national government to "think thrice" before making any announcements so it does not lead to confusion and wasted time and effort.

"Examine before proposing," Facundo said. "See if the plan is bullet proof. Plan ahead... Its not like all these happened only last night. Its been 16 months!
(CNN)  Taliban fighters used whips and sticks against a group of women protesting in Kabul on Wednesday following the announcement of a hardline, male-only interim government, in the group's latest crackdown on dissent in Afghanistan.

Videos and images received by CNN show the women chanting, "Long live the women of Afghanistan."

Some held placards declaring "No government can deny the presence of women" and "I will sing freedom over and over." Others held placards with the image of a pregnant police officer who was killed in Ghor province a few days ago. The Taliban told CNN they were not involved in her death, but have subsequently launched an investigation.

The fighters also beat a number of journalists covering the demonstration, according to witnesses.

This is just the latest case of female activists making a bold and public challenge to the Taliban's rule. Women in hijabs joined protests in Kabul on Tuesday, the largest since the militant group seized power last month. A small group of women demonstrators also took to the streets of the Afghan capital over the weekend to demand equal rights, one of at least three small protests across the country last week.

One woman at Wednesday's protest said: "We have gathered here to protest the recent announcement of the government where there are no women representation within this government."

She said a few of the protesters were "hit with whips and they tell us to go to our homes and recognize and accept the Emirate. Why should we accept the Emirate while no inclusion or rights have been given to us?"

As she spoke, she held a poster saying: "A cabinet without women is a loser, a loser."

She said a number of journalists who were covering the protest had been detained, and called for their release. "All those men who were here to carry out their duties as journalists were arrested. Why and how long should we put up with this?"

Another woman at the protest said the Taliban had "proved that they cannot change," adding: "We are asking the international community, especially those who during the last 20 years tried to provide women with their rights, where are those defenders of women rights today?"

The women also said the Taliban had beaten youths watching the protest. One said that a "16-year old who left home to go to school, his school bag on his back, he was taken in and beaten up, he had bruises all over his body, his arms. He escaped but two or three Taliban were running after him."

The editor of the online news outlet EtilaatRoz, Elyas Nawandish, posted photographs on Twitter showing images of two of his journalists who had been injured.

He wrote: "Taqi Daryabi and Neamat Naqdi, two reporters for @Etilaatroz have been severely beaten after being arrested by the Taliban. The reporters say they were each taken to separate rooms and then beaten by the Taliban. They were taken to hospital for treatment."

Marcus Yam, a journalist with the Los Angeles Times who was covering the protest, said on Twitter: "While some tried to put their hands on me, there was one fighter that kept interfering and at one point muttered 'foreigner.' There were others standing around with their whips ready."

The protests took place in Dasht-i-Barchi, an area of Kabul mostly inhabited by people from the minority Shia Hazara ethnic group, a group known to have been targeted by the Taliban in the past.

The Taliban have not commented on Wednesday's protest.

The latest demonstrations come a day after the Taliban cracked down severely on scores of demonstrators who marched in Kabul on Tuesday.

'Threat to stability'

No women, members of religious minorities or members of Afghanistan's ousted leadership were selected for acting cabinet positions or named to advisory roles in the announcement of the interim government on Tuesday.

This comes in spite of the Taliban's promises of an inclusive government and more moderate form of Islamic rule than when they were last in power two decades ago.

"We represent the whole of Afghanistan, and we talk on the level of the whole of Afghanistan and our struggle was based on the whole of Afghanistan. We are not people of one tribe or ethnicity, neither do we believe in this," Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said at Tuesday's news conference, outlining the interim government.

Fawzia Kofi, a former Afghan MP, peace negotiator and women rights activist, accused the Taliban of going against what they had promised, referencing a meeting with a senior Taliban figure.

"When I [first] met Taliban, Shabudin Dilawar elaborated their version of Islamic rights for women saying no barrier for women to become minister/prime minister, they act in contrary. Was that to get political boost?" she tweeted.

The National Resistance Front in Afghanistan (NRF), an anti-Taliban group which has been battling the militants' offensive in the Panjshir Valley, called the Taliban's caretaker cabinet "illegal" and a "threat to stability and security of Afghanistan, the region and the world."

"NRF believes that the establishment of a democratic, legal and legitimate government can only be achieved through the will and vote of the people in a general election that is also acceptable to the international community," it said.

According to photos and videos shared on social media, activists who marched on Tuesday shouted in support of resistance fighters in Panjshir and chanted against Pakistan, which they view as meddling in Afghan affairs.

Witnesses estimated the crowd at between 300 and 500 people -- many of whom were women wearing the hijab. The Taliban responded with gunfire, detentions and beatings.

Human rights group Amnesty International tweeted that it was "deeply concerned about reports on use of violence against peaceful protestors & journalists in Kabul by the Taliban."

Human Rights Watch tweeted: "In yet another indication that #Afghanistan's new rulers will not tolerate peaceful dissent, the Taliban again used force to crush a protest by hundreds of #Afghan women calling for their rights today."

Concern over lack of inclusiveness

Disquiet over the interim government's composition has been voiced both by Afghanistan's neighbors and by global powers. The Taliban have given no indication of how long the caretaker government will remain in place.

The secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, Ali Shamkhani, said that "ignoring the need for establishing an inclusive government" was a major concern in a tweet Wednesday, Iranian state news agency IRNA reported.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said his country hoped "that the political situation stabilizes at the earliest, leading to normalcy."

Speaking to regional leaders in Islamabad on Wednesday, Qureshi said the priorities for Afghanistan's neighbors included supporting the Afghan people and embracing the importance of national reconciliation and the country's multi-ethnic makeup.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said China was willing to stay in touch with the new Afghan leadership but also indicated that minority rights should be respected.

"We hope that the new Afghan regime, during the period of the interim government, will listen to the opinions of all ethnic groups and parties, and respond to the expectations from the Afghan people and the international community," he said, according to Reuters. "We noticed that the Taliban stressed that all people will benefit from the new regime."

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Wednesday the Taliban's actions were not cause for optimism as Germany assesses how to help Afghanistan's people amid food shortages, aid stoppages and the threat of economic collapse.

"We are prepared to provide humanitarian aid through the United Nations, and we will continue to talk to the Taliban, if only to enable the people for whom we bear responsibility to leave the country," he said.

"Any further engagement, however, will depend on the behavior of the Taliban. The announcement of a transitional government without the participation of other groups and yesterday's violence against demonstrators and journalists in Kabul are not the signals that give cause for optimism."

Maas was speaking ahead of a meeting with his US counterpart, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, at Germany's Ramstein Air Base, where thousands of people fleeing Afghanistan were flown in the massive US airlift operation last month.

The US State Department said Tuesday it was "concerned by the affiliations and track records" of some of those in the interim government. "We note the announced list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women," a spokesperson said.

While this has been presented as a caretaker government, the spokesperson said, "we will judge the Taliban by its actions, not words. We have made clear our expectation that the Afghan people deserve an inclusive government."

EU spokesperson Peter Stano said in a statement sent to CNN that from initial analysis of the appointments, "it does not look like the inclusive and representative formation in terms of the rich ethnic and religious diversity of Afghanistan we hoped to see and that the Taliban were promising over the past weeks."

Meanwhile, ousted Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said Wednesday that leaving Kabul as the Taliban entered the city on August 15 was "the most difficult decision" of his life. "It was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her 6 million citizens," Ghani said in a statement posted on his official Twitter account.

In the statement, Ghani also rejected as "baseless" allegations that he took with him millions of dollars belonging to the Afghan people. "These charges are completely and categorically false," he said.

CNN's Stephanie Halasz, Celine Alkhaldi, Jen Hansler, Sophia Saifi, Nic Robertson, Anna Coren and Hilary Whiteman contributed to this report.

This story was first published on CNN.com "Taliban fighters use whips against Afghan women protesting the all-male interim government"
(CNN)  El Salvador's "Bitcoin Day" did not go especially well.

The impoverished country's vaunted adoption of bitcoin as legal tender on Tuesday was marred by street protests, technical glitches and an extreme drop in the value of the controversial digital currency.

What went wrong?

- "Chivo Wallet," a storage app created by the government, wasn't immediately available on major app stores. By the end of the day, it had appeared on Apple and Huawei platforms.

- Hundreds of people marched against bitcoin in various protests across the capital city, the Financial Times reported.

- The price of bitcoin started the day around $53,000 before plunging by as much as 19%, according to data from Coinbase. The digital currency has since recovered some losses to trade near $46,270.

President Nayib Bukele, a right-wing populist who is the driving force behind the bitcoin initiative, took the dramatic price drop in his stride. "Buying the dip," he quipped on Twitter. He also joined online crypto supporters in praising major companies such as McDonald's for accepting bitcoin as payment.

Supporters have argued that adopting bitcoin as legal tender will help Salvadorans avoid costly fees on remittances from abroad, which totaled nearly $6 billion last year  around a quarter of GDP.

Bukele may succeed in ironing out the initial technical glitches, but the biggest risks from bitcoin will persist long into the future.

El Salvador does not have a currency of its own, instead relying on the US dollar. Adding another currency to the mix that's prone to wild changes in value will further complicate the government's budget and tax planning.

It's also a nightmare for households and businesses, who now have to devote time and resources to deciding whether to hold their funds in dollars or bitcoin. With crypto prices prone to wild swings, the stakes are high.

Another risk: Adopting bitcoin as legal tender may also encourage crime to flourish, according to the International Monetary Fund, which agreed to provide $389 million in emergency funding to El Salvador in April 2020.

"Without robust anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism measures, cryptoassets can be used to launder ill-gotten money, fund terrorism, and evade taxes. This could pose risks to a country's financial system, fiscal balance, and relationships with foreign countries and correspondent banks," the IMF said in July.

Big picture: Credit rating agencies are not impressed. In late July, Moody's Investors Service pushed El Salvador's debt deeper into junk territory, citing "a deterioration in the quality of policymaking" including the government's decision to adopt bitcoin as legal tender.

Moody's said the country remains susceptible to financing shocks that could jeopardize the government's ability to repay creditors starting in January 2023. That means El Salvador is likely to need another bailout from the IMF.

Other countries should follow El Salvador with extreme caution. The IMF urged governments to use new digital forms of money only when they can preserve financial stability, efficiency and equality.

"Attempting to make cryptoassets a national currency is an inadvisable shortcut," the IMF warned.

Chinese investors pour $1 billion into BlackRock's new fund

BlackRock's new investment fund in China  the first owned entirely by a foreign firm  has attracted $1 billion from Chinese investors in its first week.

The world's largest asset manager said Wednesday that the fund  which has now raised 6.68 billion yuan  was officially established this week and has attracted more than 111,000 investors. It started offering investment products to individual Chinese investors late last month.

"We are very proud of achieving this milestone for our China fund management business, and are grateful for investors' overwhelming support," said Rachel Lord, BlackRock's chair and head of Asia Pacific.

Remember: BlackRock's announcement comes days after the company was blasted by billionaire philanthropist George Soros for its efforts in China, which he called a "blunder." BlackRock's new product launch came just weeks after it recommended that investors pile into Chinese assets.

"Pouring billions of dollars into China now is a tragic mistake," Soros wrote in an op-edrote in an op-ed published Monday by the Wall Street Journal. "It is likely to lose money for BlackRock's clients and, more important, will damage the national security interests of the [United States] and other democracies."

Soros highlighted Xi's recent crackdown on private business, which he sees as proof that "the regime regards all Chinese companies as instruments of the one-party state." He also referenced "an enormous crisis brewing in China's real estate market," and Xi's efforts to redistribute wealth. These trends, he said, do "not augur well for foreign investors."

Who's right? Time will tell.

The humble shipping container

You probably don't spend much time thinking about shipping containers. But these humble building blocks of global trade have become incredibly scarce and extremely expensive during the pandemic.

Before the Bell's lead author Julia Horowitz spent the past couple weeks reporting on shipping containers and how they're contributing to a global shipping crisis. Backlogs are now looming over the holiday shopping season.

Before the coronavirus hit, companies could rent a 20-foot or 40-foot box with relative ease, allowing them to move goods at a low cost. But empty boxes remain scattered across Europe and North America, while supply chain delays mean even more are needed to fulfill orders.

Here's the result: One year ago, companies would pay roughly $1,920 to book a 40-foot steel container on a standard route between China and Europe, according to data from Drewry, a maritime research consultancy.

Now, they're spending more than $14,000, an increase of more than 600%. Meanwhile, the cost of buying a container has effectively doubled.

"We are seeing record high rates, particularly on the spot market," said John Fossey, head of container equipment and leasing research at Drewry, referring to the just-in-time reservation of trips on ocean carriers.

Experts in the container industry aren't sure when prices will ease. But they do agree on one thing: The situation isn't going to be resolved any time soon.

Gene Seroka, executive director at the Port of Los Angeles, has said that supply chain issues could persist until 2023.

This tory was first published on CNN.com, "El Salvador's bitcoin experiment is a warning to other countries."
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  A Silicon Valley-based fraud detection firm is expanding its global operations to the Philippines, betting on the growth of finance and telecom sectors in the financial technology space.

HyperVergewhich has been tapped by companies like CIMB, Home Credit, SquidPay, State Bank Of India, and Grab for its artificial intelligence (AI) solutionshelps firms from suffering financial fraud attacks, especially now that the world is dealing with a pandemic that has forced companies and consumers to embrace digital payments.

"The Philippines is fast becoming the new growth center in Southeast Asia," HyperVerge chief executive officer Kedar Kulkarni was quoted as saying in a statement.

However, the local fintech market remains at the "infancy" stage, making users vulnerable, Kulkarni warned

RELATED: PH fintech market lagging behind despite pandemic boost  Fitch Solutions

Last month, the Bank Marketing Association of the Philippines launched #FightFraudTogether information campaign amid rising reports of fraudulent transactions.

Data from the central bank showed that it received around 20,000 consumer concerns in 202013% of which were unauthorized and fraudulent transactions related to deposits, credit cards, and digital payment services.

This opens a "huge opportunity" for HyperVerge to grow its operations and take part in boosting the country's financial inclusion, its chief said.

"We want to help Filipinos gain more access to financial services, and our technology creates an information ecosystem that makes it easier for lenders to verify the information and detect fraudsters from the get-go," he said.

"Currently, we are working with three large financial institutions in the Philippines and we are keen on expanding our footprint moving forward," Kulkarni said, without identifying them.
(CNN)  UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plan to hike payroll taxes to raise billions in funding for health and social care will raise Britain's tax burden to its highest ever level, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

The independent research organization also said that further tax hikes could be on the cards, resulting in a permanent increase in the size of the British state and squeezing workers and businesses still recovering from the pandemic.

"Both [government] spending and tax will ratchet upwards over the next few years," the IFS said in research published after Johnson's announcement Tuesday, which broke a 2019 election promise not to hike income tax or national insurance.

"Taxes will reach their highest sustained level in the UK. This was always going to be an inevitable consequence of ever-growing demands on health and social care, and would have happened eventually irrespective of the pandemic," it added.

The tax increases come just six months after finance minister Rishi Sunak delivered Britain's biggest tax-raising budget in nearly three decades, lifting the rates of both corporate and personal income taxes.

The latest changes will push taxes to their highest-ever sustained share of the UK economy, according to IFS research economist, Isabel Stockton, meaning that workers and businesses will be paying more of their income in taxes than ever before.

The new "Health and Social Care Levy" unveiled Tuesday will raise almost 36 billion ($49.5 billion) over the next three years through an increase in national insurance contributions. National insurance is paid by the vast majority of workers in the United Kingdom  usually through an automatic salary deduction  and it qualifies them for certain social benefits and state pensions.

Under the plan, national insurance contributions will be increased by 1.25 percentage points for both employers and employees, amounting to a 2.5 percentage point increase on payroll taxes.

According to Johnson, the highest earning 14% of the population will pay around half of the revenue raised, with 40% of small businesses and those earning less than 9,568 ($13,172) a year not paying anything extra at all.

Still, workers will "overwhelmingly" bear the brunt of the new tax burden, with very little coming from pensioners, according to the IFS.

"This is the latest in a long line of reforms which have tilted the burden of taxation towards the earnings of working age people and away from the incomes of pensioners," said Tom Waters, a senior research economist at the IFS.

The money is intended to fix a longstanding funding crisis in health and social care, both of which face increased demand from an aging population.

Johnson described the plan as "the biggest catch-up program in the history of the [National Health Service]," which is grappling with a chronic backlog of non-essential treatments that has been made worse by the coronavirus pandemic.

While a portion of the funds has been earmarked for social care, the IFS on Wednesday cautioned that four decades of experience shows that NHS spending plans are "almost always topped up."

"If history repeats itself, the 'temporary' increases in NHS funding announced this week could end up permanently swallowing up the money raised by the tax rise, leaving little available for social care," it added.

UK government spending coming out of the pandemic is set to reach a record peacetime level, according to the IFS.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "National insurance hike sets UK on path to record level of taxes."
(CNN)  Bob Odenkirk is letting fans know he's doing well and is back to work on "Better Call Saul."

The actor took to Twitter from the makeup chair on set, writing, "Back to work on Better Call Saul! So happy to be here and living this specific life surrounded by such good people. BTW this is makeup pro Cheri Montesanto making me not ugly for shooting!"

In July, Odenkirk collapsed on the Albuquerque, New Mexico, set of "Saul" and later confirmed it was due to a "small heart attack."

He is currently filming the the sixth season of the show. After his scare, Odenkirk thanked everyone for the outpouring of love, tweeting, "Hi. It's Bob. Thank you. To my family and friends who have surrounded me this week. And for the outpouring of love from everyone who expressed concern and care for me. It's overwhelming. But I feel the love and it means so much."

"Better Call Saul" is a prequel to the AMC hit "Breaking Bad," which ran for five seasons between 2008 and 2013. That show introduced Odenkirk as Saul Goodman, an attorney for Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston.

Odenkirk has been nominated for four Golden Globe Awards and four Primetime Emmy Awards for playing Saul.

This story was first published on CNN.com 'Bob Odenkirk back to work on 'Better Call Saul' after health scare'
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 8) President Rodrigo Duterte again defended his former economic adviser, Michael Yang, who has been entangled in controversies hounding the government's procurement of supplies for its COVID-19 response.

Speaking at the PDP-Laban national convention Wednesday, Duterte argued that Yang  who has been linked to the embattled Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corporation  was only a "middleman" for the Philippine government and a foreign company providing medical goods.

"A Chinese doing business because we were encouraging everybody in the world to come to the Philippines and do business," Duterte said during the event  where he was also officially endorsed as the ruling party's vice presidential bet.

"Akala ko ba (I thought) we were trying to invite everybody to do business in the Philippines? Ang key diyan si (The key here is) Yang. Yang is known to me," he added.

Yang, a Chinese national who has been doing business in Davao City, made headlines due to his alleged ties to Pharmally  the government's biggest provider of medical supplies amid the coronavirus crisis.

The firm has recently been in the limelight of congressional hearings as lawmakers questioned the government's purchase of allegedly overpriced face masks, testing kits, and personal protective equipment.

RELATED: Senators disappointed that foreign-led firm got better govt deal than local manufacturer

On Tuesday, the Senate issued warrants of arrest against Yang and five Pharmally officials for their failure to attend the chamber's inquiries. Yang vowed he would be present in the next hearing scheduled on Friday.

Duterte, for his part, vouched for the innocence of his former appointee.

"Wala naman si Michael Yang. He has no manufacturing factory in Davao. Walang record 'yan. Hindi kriminal 'yan," the chief executive said.

[Translation: Michael Yang has no manufacturing factory in Davao. He has no record, he's not a criminal.]

In the same speech, Duterte also brought up criticisms of the Health department's handling of pandemic funds highlighted in the Commission on Audit's report. The President said he would resign if Health Secretary Francisco Duque or officials in the executive department are proven to have engaged in corrupt activities.

"Maski malayo ako sa mga transactions diyan (Even though I'm not directly involved in the transactions), being the President of the executive department and of the country, talagang mananagot ako (I would be responsible)," Duterte said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9) Former presidential adviser Michael Yang will be attending all succeeding Senate inquiries on the Health departments pandemic budget utilization, his lawyer said on Thursday.

This is to confirm the attendance of our client, Mr. Michael Yang, in all hearings of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee from September 10, 2021 until the same is terminated, Atty. Raymond Fortun wrote in a letter addressed to Senate President Tito Sotto and Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Richard Gordon.

Yangs camp, however, requested for an interpreter in the hearings as the Chinese businessman has difficulty expressing himself in English or Filipino and would prefer to answer the lawmakers' questions in native Mandarin.

With your Honors kind indulgence, in order to aid in communication, may we ask that an interpreter be made available in all hearings who can translate the Senators questions to Mandarin and later translate Mr. Yangs responses thereto to English, Fortun added.

The lawyer also asked for Yangs interpreter to be allowed by his side as a silent participant in case translations would require corrections.

The Senate earlier this week issued a warrant of arrest against Yang a former economic adviser of President Rodrigo Duterte due to his absence in the chambers hearings.

Yang has been put on the spotlight in the past days due to his alleged ties to Pharmally Pharmaceuticals Corporation, a firm that bagged billions of pesos in government contracts but is being questioned by lawmakers for deals that involved supposedly overpriced COVID-19 supplies.

Sotto said the warrant against Yang may be lifted once he appears in the probe. He added the Senate can also provide a translator for the proceedings.

Duterte has repeatedly defended his former appointee. In a speech on Wednesday, the chief executive said the Davao-based businessman was only a middleman and did not have any criminal record.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 8)  Mayors in the National Capital Region are calling for eased restrictions on individuals already fully vaccinated against COVID-19, in order to help revive the economy.

In a statement on Thursday, the Metro Manila Council told the Inter-Agency Task Force that it is confident it can balance protecting the public's health and boosting industries.

The council said it approved a resolution asking the IATF to "consider the easing of the COVID-19 guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals in the NCR subject to the conduct of an inter-agency and inter-disciplinary study to determine the appropriate policy therefore based on scientific and empirical evidence."

As of Sept. 8, 56% of the eligible population - or 5,492,344 persons - in the capital region have completed their vaccine doses. Meanwhile, 84.21% of the eligible population - or 8,262,558 individuals - have received their first shot.

By next month, the council projects that the number of fully vaccinated residents will increase to 77.57%, or 7,601,685 people. In three months' time, or not later than December 8, mayors said 87% will be vaccinated, taking into account the 12-week interval between AstraZeneca doses.

Earlier, Presidential Adviser for Entrepreneurship Joey Concepcion also proposed transportation bubbles for the fully vaccinated. Malacanang has said it is open to the idea should Metro Manila reach population protection - which means at least 50% have completed their coronavirus shots.
Uh-oh! It could be you, or it could be us, but there's no page here.
Editor's Note: Philippine General Hospital spokesperson Jonas del Rosario later corrected his statement, saying the doctors did not resign but merely did not renew their contract.

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  Ten volunteer doctors resigned from the Philippine General Hospital, further worsening the shortage of medical personnel attending to COVID-19 patients, the hospital's spokesperson bared on Thursday.

PGH spokesperson Jonas del Rosario told CNN Philippines' The Source that the 10 doctors were volunteers from the Department of Health (DOH).

Sinwelduhan po iyon ng DOH, he added.

Del Rosario said the PGH respected their resignation, but he admitted that it was a "huge loss" to the hospital amid the rise in COVID-19 cases.

He also bared that some nurses resigned while other health workers had to undergo quarantine after getting exposed to COVID-19 patients.

Even health workers from other departments were asked to help out in treating COVID-19 patients, but it was still not enough because there were non-COVID-19 patients who also needed care.

"The director has a request that all departments should be sending out some of their residents para tumulong, all hands on deck. Kahit di mo specialty yan, magpapadala and thats whats been happening just to augment. Even with that, kapos pa rin because we have other non-COVID patients pa to take care of," Del Rosario said.

[Translation: The director has a request that all departments should be sending out some of their residents to help, all hands on deck. Even if it's not your specialty, you'll likely be sent out and that's what's been happening just to augment. Even with that, it's still not enough because we have other non-COVID-19 patients to take care of.]

Del Rosario also said that he could not tell the reason behind the resignation, but he assumed that the government's compensation did not match the workload in the hospital.

"Maybe I can just hypothesize. Maaaring napagod na din, maaaring yung iba nagkakasakit, they probably look at PGH masyadong maraming trabaho. And then the truth of the matter is they probably could be earning more if they just work  less work, higher pay outside," he said.

[Translation: Maybe I can just hypothesize. Maybe they are tired, perhaps the others are getting sick, they probably look at PGH with a lot of work.]

"Ang narinig ko minsan yung sweldo na 50,000 (I heard that a 50,000 salary) a month, to a lot of people that is not enough. Because if they moonlight somewhere, they can earn twice as much," he added.

PGH has reached its full capacity, with over 100 COVID-19 patients still waiting to get admitted.

Del Rosario said the hospital's emergency room has been transformed into an extended intensive care unit just to provide ventilators and oxygen to dozens of patients amid the surge.

READ: PGH now fully occupied, 100 COVID-19 patients waitlisted
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The Food And Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday said there are no indications a specific COVID-19 vaccine brand results in more breakthrough cases compared to others.

FDA chief Eric Domingo reported that 242 or 0.0017% of the 13.87 million fully vaccinated individuals had breakthrough infections five months since the vaccination program started.

Data as of Aug. 29 sent to the FDA and international platform VigiFlow showed there were 180 COVID-19 infections among the 6.86 million who completed their Sinovac shots. Forty-seven breakthrough infections were recorded in the 2.03 million who got their two doses of AstraZeneca. For the single-dose Janssen, 11 breakthrough cases were tallied among the 3.56 million who received this brand. Four cases were also reported among the 1.23 million who got their two Pfizer doses.

Four breakthrough deaths were also reported for Sinovac and one for Janssen. Domingo said these five cases are senior citizens.

There were no reported breakthrough cases in those who received Moderna and Sputnik V shots. Those who were given Sinopharm have not yet completed their vaccinations.

"The pattern is very similar for all of them," Domingo said in a media forum. "The data, statistically, looks very similar for all vaccines."

Domingo said there are understandably more breakthrough cases for Sinovac since it was the first brand to be rolled out and it is the brand that is administered the most in the country.

A breakthrough case is described by health officials as someone found with SARS-CoV-2 in their system 14 days after completing their single- or two-dose COVID-19 vaccine. It takes the body 14 days to significantly build antibodies after receiving the shots.

Despite the breakthrough infections, Domingo said all the vaccines available in the country remain effective in protecting a person against severe COVID-19 infection and even death. He added there is no vaccine brand that offers 100% protection, so the public must continue to adhere to minimum public health standards.

"Kaya nga kung ikaw ay pipili, tataya ka pa rin doon sa bakuna dahil nakikita natin na meron siyang protective effect. Iba talaga ang mga numero sa nabakunahan compared sa general population," Domingo said.

[Translation: If you were to choose, you should still get vaccinated because we see that it has a protective effect. The number of infections greatly varies in those vaccinated and the general population (who are still unvaccinated).]

"It will not work 100% for everyone, but it does work for the great majority," he added.

Domingo also said there is no proof yet that Sinovac's efficacy wanes after six months since it was only rolled out in the country last March. He said a clearer picture may be seen in the data that will come in October.

"Out of 6 to 7 million, very low pa rin ang breakthrough and mortalities. Five months after, hindi convincing na may waning," he noted.

[Translation: Out of the 6-7 million vaccinated with Sinovac, the breakthrough cases and mortalities remain very low. After five months, the data isn't convincing that its efficacy is waning.]

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Rontgene Solante earlier shared a study in Thailand which showed that while the efficacy of Sinovac vaccine against the original coronavirus strain is 98.33%, it went down to 75% for the Alpha variant and 70% for the Beta variant. The vaccine's level of protection against the feared Delta variant dropped further to 48.33% six months after receiving the second dose.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The Department of Justice (DOJ), the Commission on Audit (COA), and the Office of the Ombudsman have signed an agreement to deploy prosecutors and state auditors as "resident ombudsmen" to graft-prone agencies.

Under the agreement, the Department of Public Works and Highways, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Land Registration Authority, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. were tagged as graft-prone offices. Other agencies may be identified later for being high risk for corruption.

In a statement, the DOJ said the resident ombudsmen will act on complaints and reports against erring officials and employees of the agencies, serve as watchdogs and implement anti-corruption programs, and monitor compliance with existing anti-graft laws and regulations.

"The MOA synergizes the investigatory powers of the Ombudsman, DOJ, and COA in the implementation of anti-corruption measures, thus aiding the Ombudsman and the COA in carrying out their respective mandates while also serving as a mechanism for the DOJ to attain the objectives of the Task Force Against Corruption," the DOJ said.

"The Ombudsman, COA, and DOJ shall jointly enter into agreements with partner agencies regarding the terms of deployment of the resident ombudsmen, which is expected to start rolling this month," it added.

The designation of a DOJ prosecutor or COA auditor as resident ombudsman will be approved by the Ombudsman first, the agreement read.

President Rodrigo Duterte last year formed the Task Force Against Corruption - headed by Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra - to look into alleged corruption in the "entire government."

Duterte has given the task force until June 30, 2022 - the last day of his term - to eradicate corruption in the government.
(CNN)  The US government and its NATO allies invaded Afghanistan almost immediately after the September 11, 2001, terror attacks, seeking accountability from al Qaeda and Osama bin Laden for murdering nearly 3,000 people. It began what would become a two-decade military odyssey in nation-building that ended messily last month when Americans handed control of Afghanistan back to the Taliban.

But the family members of 9/11 victims are still pursuing accountability from another country  Saudi Arabia  as well as seeking more information hidden by the US government in US courts.

Secrecy has fueled theories. The kingdom has denied any involvement, and the US long ago decided that Saudi Arabia, its strategic partner in the Middle East, had no role in the attacks -- though 15 of the 19 9/11 hijackers were Saudi citizens. So had bin Laden been, although he had been expelled from the kingdom and his citizenship revoked.

Suspicion of Saudi Arabia has persisted, however, and the dogged efforts of 9/11 families over the past two decades have forced the US, bit by bit, to share early leads that tied the hijackers to Saudi officials but were shrouded in secrecy and hidden from public view as classified information.

Persistence has yielded results. More details on those investigations could be forthcoming as a lawsuit against Saudi Arabia proceeds in court.

That lawsuit exists only because, after a years-long campaign by the 9/11 families, Congress passed a special law in 2016 allowing individuals to sue governments for terror attacks.

President Joe Biden has tried to keep a campaign promise to release FBI information related to 9/11 investigations by ordering a review of information at the bureau. A group of 9/11 families had asked him to stay away from Ground Zero unless the documents were released.

RELATED: Saudi embassy says it welcomes the release of classified documents related to September 11 attacks

A military commission case proceed at Guantanamo. Separate from the 9/11 families lawsuit, there has been movement this week in military commissions at Guantanamo Bay for 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and four others accused of having a hand in the attacks.

This military commission has been drawn out for many reasons, including issues surrounding the fact the US subjected the men to enhanced interrogation techniques -- in other words, torture -- and because of the Covid-19 pandemic. They appeared at pretrial hearings this week but the trial likely won't begin until 2022. It has been delayed several times. The five detainees were arraigned in 2012.

CNN's Ellie Kaufman has been covering the military tribunal against alleged 9/11 conspirators.

Justice takes a very long time. That both the 9/11 lawsuit and the military commission are still ongoing 20 years after the attacks is proof of the difficulty of achieving justice and accountability for a terror plot that not only brought down skyscrapers in Manhattan, left a gaping hole in the Pentagon and brought down four jetliners but also changed the way Americans live and travel.

First, the 28 pages. A first step in this long story of persistence by 9/11 families who blame Saudi Arabia was the effort to declassify 28 pages of the landmark 9/11 Commission report that investigated the causes of the attacks.

The only part of the report kept secret, the 28 pages were kept classified for years until they were released, under public pressure, during the Obama administration.

Saudi contacts with hijackers. Those long-classified documents confirmed that some of the 9/11 hijackers had been in contact with and received support from individuals connected to the Saudi government, CNN reported at the time of the release.

They included the stunning revelation that the phone number of Prince Bandar bin Sultan, who was then Saudi ambassador to the US, was in the phone book of Abu Zubaydah, who is currently held at the US military prison at Guantanamo Bay and was an associate of bin Laden.

Separately, the US Supreme Court has agreed to take up Zubaydah's request for information from CIA contractors about his detention and torture in Poland, where there is a Polish criminal trial regarding the CIA black site there.

In addition to Bandar's number, Zubaydah had the unlisted number of a guard who worked at the Saudi Embassy in the US. The 28 pages also described Bandar's financial support for a man, Osama Bassnan, who had been in contact with two of the hijackers.

CNN's Jennifer Rizzo wrote a more in-depth review of the 28 pages.

In 2020, as part of the lawsuit brought by 9/11 family members, the US Department of Justice accidentally included the name of another Saudi Embassy official, Ahmed al-Jarrah, in court documents. Read more about al-Jarrah from ProPublica, which reported he was investigated by the FBI, but there was no evidence to suggest he was at all involved in the 9/11 plot.

US presidents have sought to shield Saudi Arabia from US lawsuits, citing the need for national security and to protect Americans from retaliatory lawsuits.

The Trump administration fought against the release of al-Jarrah's name, for instance.

Obama vetoed a congressional effort to authorize 9/11 families to sue Saudi Arabia in federal court.

It was the only time during his presidency that Congress overrode an Obama veto.

"Obviously all of us still carry the scars and trauma of 9/11," he told CNN's Jake Tapper in 2016, pointing out that the US had set up a victim compensation fund for the families.

"The concern that I've had has nothing to do with Saudi Arabia, per se, or my sympathy for 9/11 families. It has to do with me not wanting a situation in which we're suddenly exposed to liabilities for all the work we're doing around the world."
(CNN)  A Florida judge ruled against Gov. Ron Desantis on Wednesday and allowed schools in the state to mandate face masks while the case is appealed at a higher level.

The ruling from Second Circuit Judge John Cooper, effective immediately, means the state of Florida must stop enforcement of banning mask mandates  which ends sanctions against several school districts that have implemented such mandates.

The decision comes amid heated showdowns between the state and some local school districts, which have insisted on requiring students to wear masks amid a surge in Covid-19 infections.

In late July, DeSantis, a Republican, issued an executive order that directed the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Department of Health to issue emergency rules giving parents a choice on whether their children should wear masks in class. The state threatened to withhold funding from districts that violated the order and required masks for everyone.

Even so, 13 Florida school districts have now implemented a mask mandate without a parent opt out in defiance of the governor's position.

Judge Cooper ruled against DeSantis' order two weeks ago, saying the governor overreached and did not have the authority to ban school districts from implementing mask mandates without a parent opt out.

DeSantis appealed that ruling, which led to an immediate pause on school mask mandates while a ruling was made.

That pause has now been lifted. In Wednesday's ruling, Judge Cooper said there was not enough irreparable harm to set aside the automatic stay triggered by the appeal.

"It's undisputed that in Florida we are in the midst of a Covid pandemic. Based on the evidence I've heard, there's no harm to the state if the stay is set aside," Cooper said.

Cooper added that based on expert witnesses it is clear the only way to protect children who are unable to be vaccinated is to keep children isolated at home, which would cause additional harm.

"It's undisputed that the Delta variant is far more infectious than the prior version of the virus, and that children are more susceptible to the Delta variant than to the form from a year ago," Cooper said.

"In particular for children under 12, they cannot be vaccinated. Therefore, there's really only one or two means to protect them against the virus ... either stay at home, or mask."

Cooper added that based on the evidence young students "arguably have no way to avoid this, except to stay home and isolate themselves."

"I think everybody agrees, that's not good for them," Cooper said.

The case will now go to the First District Court of Appeal.

"They'll thoroughly consider the arguments of all parties, and they'll make a decision, then it may or may not end up at the Florida Supreme Court," Cooper said.

Prior to Cooper's ruling, Gov. DeSantis said he was "very confident" he will ultimately win the court battle over his statewide ban on mask mandates.

"What we have found is, you know, in the trial courts in Tallahassee, state and federal, we typically lose if there is a political component to it. But then in the appeals court, we almost always win," DeSantis said when asked about Wednesday's hearing. "And so I don't think (the judge) is going to lift the stay ... but if it is lifted I am confident that that will be reinstated at the 11th Circuit."

DeSantis spoke from Palm Coast at an event promoting monoclonal antibody treatments as a method of preventing severe illness and death resulting from a Covid-19 infection.

This stoyr was first published on CNN.com, "Florida judge allows school mask mandates to continue despite governor's appeal."
(CNN)  Nancy Salzman, who created Nxivm alongside Keith Raniere, was sentenced Wednesday to 3 1/2 years in prison.

Prosecutors said Salzman was an enabler who helped Raniere remain the leader of a criminal enterprise and gain access to victims, but Salzman's attorneys say she was a victim herself  and possibly one of Raniere's first.

Salzman, 66, once the president of Nxivm, spoke at her sentencing in federal court in Brooklyn, more than two years after she pleaded guilty to a racketeering conspiracy charge.

"I know, your honor, that I put myself here," Salzman said.

US District Judge Nicholas Garaufis, who presided over Raniere's trial, said that Salzman should turn herself into authorities on January 19, 2022.

Prosecutors have said Salzman played a role in attempting to intimidate and investigate perceived critics of Raniere, which helped create a climate of fear within the organization. Her attorneys point out that she was the first of Raniere's co-defendants to plead guilty and helped facilitate others' guilty pleas.

Raniere was convicted of racketeering, child sexual exploitation, sex trafficking and other charges in 2019 and was sentenced to life in prison. Salzman and her daughter, Lauren, were also charged and pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy shortly before Raniere's trial.

The person Raniere was convicted of sexually exploiting when she was a 15-year-old girl spoke in court at Salzman's sentencing.

"Not only did she facilitate the environment for my abuse ... she provided an even worse environment for victims to heal," she said. CNN is not naming her.

Lauren Salzman will not go to prison, due in part to the fact that she testified against Raniere at his trial. And while Salzman will go to prison and have three years of supervised release, she will still serve less time than one co-defendant, Seagram's heiress Clare Bronfman.

Bronfman is currently serving her nearly seven-year sentence after pleading guilty to conspiracy to conceal and harbor people who were not in the United States legally for financial gain, as well as fraudulent use of identification.

"The conduct underlying the defendant's conviction warrants a substantial sentence," Assistant US Attorney Tanya Hajjar wrote in a presentencing court filing.

Salzman's attorneys, however, had asked for two years of home confinement and no prison time. They point to her serious health problems, her decision to plead guilty early and the fact that she is the caretaker for her elderly mother.

"Her decision and genuine remorse for her wrongful conduct had ancillary benefit for the Court and justice system at large, because, following (her) guilty plea, others, most notably her daughter Lauren, realized it was indeed possible to renounce Raniere, despite the many who still steadfastly remained faithful to him," Salzman's attorneys wrote in their request.

Human potential

Salzman is a former nurse who was specializing in a type of therapy called neurolinguistic programming when she met Raniere. Together, they started what they called a "human potential school" and developed a curriculum "designed to assist individuals with achieving their life goals," according to a court filing by her daughter's attorneys. Nxivm members called Salzman "Prefect" and Raniere "Vanguard."

The classes, called "Executive Success Programs," were pricey, multi-day lessons and prosecutors say Salzman pushed Nxivm members to take the classes and incur debt to do so. But prosecutors also allege that the classes Salzman helped Raniere develop "were designed to maintain power and control" over Nxivm members.

Salzman's 20-year relationship with Raniere was both intimate and business-like, her attorneys said, and since cutting off ties with Raniere she realized that what he saw in her was a worker who was "able to do things he was not, and for which she would allow him to receive credit."

In one letter presented by Salzman's attorneys in their court filing, an anonymous person said that she believes Salzman was one of Raniere's first victims.

"He used her to promote himself and kept her working all the time to keep the company and community together," an excerpt of the letter printed in a defense filing reads. "He kept her occupied all the time and hid from her what he was doing while she was hard at work."

One of the aspects of Nxivm that defense attorneys allege Raniere hid from Salzman was the existence of a secretive group known as DOS.

Allegations of abuse within DOS were at the heart of the prosecution case against Raniere. DOS was pitched as a female empowerment group to select women in Nxivm, and once women agreed to join they were pressured to give "collateral" to ensure they kept details of the group secret. Collateral could include explicit photos of themselves and even letters or statements making false or embarrassing claims that could be damaging if released.

Once in the group, women were known as "slaves" who were required to acquiesce to their "master's" every wish. Unbeknownst to many women, Raniere was the "grandmaster" of the group, and women were often directed to have sex with him, send him explicit photos of themselves, and some were even branded with a symbol that included his initials.

Salzman's attorneys point out that even prosecutors concede Salzman "was not aware of its existence" until details of DOS were revealed publicly.

Salzman's attorneys say she accepts responsibility for "enabling the horrific crimes Raniere committed," even when she wasn't aware crimes were being committed.

"Indeed, she herself feels the weight of responsibility for not making herself more aware of the enormity of what 'Vanguard' Raniere was doing at the helm of Nxivm, an entity that she had co-founded with him and that was her life's work," her attorneys said in a court filing.

The first to plead

Around the time that Raniere was arrested in 2018, several other high-ranking members were charged in connection with the case. Raniere and "Smallville" actress Allison Mack faced racketeering, sex trafficking and forced labor conspiracy charges. Bronfman, former Nxivm bookkeeper Kathy Russell, Nancy Salzman and her daughter Lauren all faced racketeering and racketeering conspiracy charges.

Lauren pleaded guilty to racketeering and racketeering conspiracy charges and testified against Raniere at his trial; she was sentenced to no prison time. Mack pleaded guilty to racketeering and racketeering conspiracy charges and gave what prosecutors called "substantial assistance." She was sentenced to three years in prison.

The last of Raniere's co-defendants to plead guilty were Bronfmam and Kathy Russell, who pleaded guilty to one charge of visa fraud and has not yet been sentenced.

"Salzman became the first defendant in the case to accept that many of the things she had been taught by Raniere were false, and that the man she had thought and had taught others was 'infallible,' was actually deeply flawed, and vicious to the core," Salzman's attorneys wrote.

Weighing heavily on Salzman, her attorneys say, was the fact that she introduced her daughter to Raniere and pushed her to take the classes she helped design and get more involved in Nxivm and its community.

"Nancy deeply believes that the pain to which her daughter has been exposed is entirely her fault and regrets her role in that debacle every day of her life," Salzman's attorneys wrote.
(CNN)  A plucky four-year-old dog named Baekgu has shown once again why dogs are man's best friend.

Baekgu's owner, a 90-year-old woman with dementia living in South Korea's Hongseong county, went missing on August 25, according to press releases from the county and provincial governments.

When police checked the security camera footage of a nearby farm, they saw the woman, identified only as Kim, and her little white dog leaving the village. They launched a search operation with the fire department, as well as volunteer residents who scoured the area as rain poured down.

Finally, 40 hours later, she was found in the middle of a rice field, about two kilometers (about 1.3 miles) away from her home. She had collapsed in a wet area where the rice grew tall and full, hiding her from view, and leaving her drenched and unable to get up.

She might not have made it if not for faithful Baekgu, police said in the press release on Monday.

Throughout the entire ordeal, as the weather got worse and the night grew cold, Baekgu stayed by her side  keeping her body temperature up, even as she began experiencing symptoms of hypothermia.

And it was Baekgu who authorities credited with the 90-year-old woman's eventual rescue. The search team sent out a thermal drone, which detected the little dog's thermal signature in the rice field.

The woman is now recovering in the hospital, said the press release  and on Monday, authorities awarded Baekgu a new title for his courage.

The National Fire Agency had introduced a regulation last year that allowed the appointment of honorary firefighters, fire ambassadors and rescue dogs  making Baekgu the country's first-ever honorary rescue dog.

Photos from the ceremony show a floral garland placed around Baekgu's neck, with a small crowd in attendance  as well as the provincial governor.

"At a difficult time due to Covid-19, Baekgu created an unbelievable miracle and moved everyone," said Gov. Yang Seung-jo.

Shim Geum-sun, the daughter of the 90-year-old, said they adopted Baekgu three years ago after he was attacked by a bigger dog.

"Baekgu especially liked my mother, and it's as if Baekgu returned our favor," Shim said. "I was so concerned as mom went missing for hours due to the rainy weather... I'm grateful and Baekgu is our family."
If you want to build something great that stands the test of time, you need a solid foundation. This is true for buildings and its true for organizations too.

Columbus Community Hospital is able to serve our community the way it does because of the support it receives from the Columbus Community Hospital Foundation.

Like a buildings foundation, the CCH Foundations success is based upon how it is put together.

The foundation was established in 2002  the same year the new CCH facility opened  to raise and manage donations for the hospital.

The foundation is run by a board of directors made up of local business leaders. This committed group of individuals operate the foundation as if it were their own business. They work together to ensure every penny of the foundation's money benefits our community hospital.

Since its creation, the foundation has raised millions of dollars through donations, estate gifts and fundraisers to purchase equipment for the hospital and help fund hospital improvements. Foundation funding has also supported several hospital programs and therapies, and scholarships for students and CCH employees.
Sens. Deb Fischer and Ben Sasse and Reps. Jeff Fortenberry, Don Bacon and Adrian Smith penned the letter in support of Gov. Pete Ricketts request for federal disaster assistance.

We supported Governor Ricketts in his request for this aid and were glad to see the administration act quickly in response, the states congressional delegation said Tuesday in a joint statement. This disaster declaration will provide Nebraskans with the resources to rebuild and recover.

The governor declared a disaster on July 22. That declaration allowed the state to use the Governors Emergency Fund to address damage from the storms, according to the Governors Office, and was necessary to request the federal aid.

About a month after the historic windstorm, Omaha was hit with flash flooding that collapsed some sewers and forced water into businesses and homes. Omaha officials said at the time that the city expected to apply for federal disaster aid in that case, as well.

However, it was determined that the flooding did not cause damage to the extent that Omaha or Douglas County would qualify for federal funding, according to Bryan Tuma, assistant director at the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.
The board approved Shaffners proposal to consider rescinding the districts existing health and safety plan on Sept. 20, with board president Brian Drapp and members Heather Dunn and Barbara Geistwhite voting against the move. Dunn said it was too soon to consider eliminating this years plan.

We are only into one week of school now. We havent even let our (existing) plan take hold for this year, she said.

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Shaffner declined comment after the meeting. However, at previous school board meetings he has opposed mandating universal masking in district schools. The CV school board on May 24 voted to lift the districts standing mask mandate for unvaccinated people as of June 5, a proposal introduced by Shaffner.

Days later, the state Education Department notified the district it has no jurisdiction to take such action and that the mask mandate would continue as enforced by the Department of Education and the state Department of Health.

According to the districts August 2021 back-to-school planning guide, the state order now in effect supersedes the districts own health and safety plan for this school year.
She wasnt happy about it.

I want to get rid of the pandemic as much as anyone, and in my opinion, the best way to ensure the pandemic ... gets pushed down to a very manageable level is by mandating masks, Pituch said in a phone interview. I feel like it should definitely be necessary unless you have a doctors note saying otherwise.

The state Education Department has said it does not track compliance with the state masking order. But most of the roughly 50 districts in the AP review said on their websites that masks are mandatory. Some do not readily advertise the exemptions in the state masking order. Others do, but require doctors notes or other medical documentation.

The medical exemption provision in the Health Departments masking order is similar to the one that was in effect for the 2020-21 school year. But masking in schools was not the highly contentious issue it is now. In York County, a hotbed of anti-mask sentiment, the South Western School Board abruptly adjourned an emergency meeting on masking Wednesday night after audience members refused to cover their faces. Board members left the stage as parents yelled and shouted.

Easier-to-obtain exemptions do not necessarily translate into mask avoidance. Laurel School District in Lawrence County does not require a doctors note, but Superintendent Leonard Rich said Thursday the statewide mandate has greatly increased mask wearing in his schools to perhaps 75%. Prior to the (Health Department) order, masks were virtually nonexistent, he said.

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It feels like the integrity is coming back, hopefully this new edition next year will finally correct these issues that have been prevalent and help get the story back on track, said James Gregory, a doctoral student in history at the University of Oklahoma who has researched the actions of other men in York's unit.

In the 2014 book Alvin York: A New Biography of the Hero of the Argonne, Mastriano repeatedly dismissed any notion that there is a legitimate dispute about the site where he claims this battle took place. He has claimed that we know with certainty the location of the York action, that it was discovered with 100% certainty and that it has been located and verified.

Mastriano's research into York helped earn him a doctorate from the University of New Brunswick in Canada. But Gregory and others interested in York's story argue Mastrianos research is plagued with errors  small and large  and that a walking trail to the battle location that he helped build actually takes visitors to the wrong spot.

University of New Brunswick officials involved in reviewing Mastriano's work indicated they do not discuss such matters without the consent of the student involved  in this case, Mastriano.
When it comes to how he feels about big tech, Jeff Bartos didnt mince his words.

From shadow-banning conservatives, censoring content online, biased fact-checking, and now funneling millions of dollars into our elections its become clearer than ever: Big Tech must be reined in, Bartos, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate from Pennsylvania, wrote on Twitter on July 1.

But even as the suburban Philadelphia businessman parroted a popular Republican talking point, he and his wife also were enjoying the financial benefits that come with investing in such big tech titans as Alphabet Inc., which owns Google, and Apple.

Financial disclosure forms that Bartos filed with the U.S. Senate as a requirement for his bid for the GOP nomination in 2022, show that he and his wife jointly and individually hold hundreds of thousands of dollars in stock in the Silicon Valley giants.

Bartos isnt alone. Disclosure forms filed by Val Arkoosh, whos Bartos neighbor in heavily Democratic Montgomery County, whos also running, similarly show individual and joint investments in Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft that run to the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Arkoosh also serves on Montgomery Countys Board of Commissioners.
To deal with the resurgence, Parkland had to close their private geriatric mental health unit to open it up to house medical-surgical patients.

We're having to house patients there, as well, in order to care for all the patients, Schnabel added.

Caring for COVID patients takes extra time and resources for the staff.

When you talk about it stressing our resources, they have to recognize that we have to do a lot of gowning up, masking up, etc., as we care for these patients, she said. So it's a lot of time spent for the staff to do that to be protected as they go in and out rooms to care for these patients.

Transferring patients to the St. Louis area through the BJC Transfer Center can be challenging, Schnabel said, as those hospitals are also inundated.

We really do focus on trying to keep the patients here, if we can manage them, versus sending them to a tertiary care center, she added.

Parkland can provide breathing assistance via oxygen, CPAP, BiPAP, and ventilators. But once a patient needs the next level of care, ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), they are transferred to Barnes-Jewish Hospital or Missouri Baptist Medical Center. ECMO, she said, takes the effort off the lungs and the heart.
Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.



WASHINGTON  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the country since Aug. 17 from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation formally known as Operation Allies Welcome.

DHS said in the latest updated released Wednesday that 17% of those arrivals are U.S. citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government there fell to the Taliban.

The remaining 83% are a mix of people. They include those with Special Immigrant Visas, for people who worked as interpreters or in some other capacity for the U.S. or NATO. There are also other visa holders as well as applicants for visas who have not yet completed their processing. The remainder are various types of vulnerable Afghans who would be threatened under the Taliban, such as women and human rights advocates.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through multi-layered security vetting but he declines to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.


The Taliban government currently does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve. These reserves were blocked amid last months political turmoil in Afghanistan.



WASHINGTON  U.S. veterans groups hope that news that private evacuation flights are starting up again for Western citizens in Kabul means Afghans considered at risk for past work with Americans will soon be able to leave again as well.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers, veterans groups and other American organizations and individuals have been pressing the Biden administration to do more to get out those vulnerable Afghans. They include thousands of Afghans who used to work with the U.S. military, and are eligible for what are known as Special Immigrant Visas.

James Miervaldis, a spokesman with a veterans group, No One Left Behind working on behalf of those Afghans, called the news, Awesome. Well start getting SIVs booked up.
Now they are older, and I am treated like the black sheep. They act like I'm beneath them, and it hurts. My brother ended up in prison and was out for only two months before he put his hands on me. Am I petty for having nothing to do with them? My mom was in prison for a long time and died two years after she was released. What am I supposed to do? Any advice would be appreciated. -- DRIFTING IN THE EAST

DEAR DRIFTING: Abusers have sometimes been victims themselves, or they grew up witnessing abuse, which is why they think it is normal behavior. Please accept that you can't fix what's wrong with your relatives (the younger ones included). Although you have been through much trauma at an early age, it is within your power to heal. Counseling can help you to do that. It is available in most communities through the Department of Mental Health.

DEAR ABBY: I have been in a relationship with a wonderful man, "Andy," for two years. I couldn't ask for a better partner. We are both divorced with children, and they get along like brothers and sisters.

Even though our marriages ended, mine wasn't an ordeal. My ex and I both knew it wasn't working anymore, and we still get along pretty well. But Andy and his ex-wife never got along and argued for 18 years, and herein lies the problem. He gives me no space -- ever.
After American troops departed Afghanistan, Gen. Frank McKenzie, the chief of the U.S. Central Command, said: "There's a lot of heartbreak associated with this departure. We did not get everybody out that we wanted to get out. But I think if we'd stayed another 10 days, we wouldn't have gotten everybody out that we wanted to get out."

"Heartbreak" is the right word. So is "betrayal."

Several hundred Americans and tens of thousands of Afghans -- who loyally served the U.S. mission over the last two decades -- have been left behind. As a nation, we've broken our promise to keep them and their families safe from the Taliban's holy warriors who now occupy their country and seek revenge.

"This is a moral disaster," proclaims a Washington Post editorial, "one attributable not to the actions of military and diplomatic personnel in Kabul -- who have been courageous and professional in the face of deadly dangers -- but to mistakes, strategic and tactical, by Mr. Biden and his administration."

Perhaps keeping American troops in place for 10 more days would not have made a big difference, although that's debatable. European leaders like British Prime Minister Boris Johnson strongly urged Biden to extend the U.S. military presence, and a recent ABC/Ipsos poll found large majorities of Americans favoring that course.
Yearning to attend live concerts again after a long pandemic-fueled delay? Hoping you can listen from the safety and comfort of home instead? This year, fans of the Charlottesville Chamber Music Festival have options.

The festival, led by co-founders and co-artistic directors Timothy Summers and Raphael Bell, opens Thursday evening for listeners who look forward to settling into seats at the Paramount Theater. Audience members also can buy tickets to livestreamed performances if they prefer.

The livestreamed performances can be viewed by ticketholders of live and virtual concertgoers alike through Sept. 30 at cvillechambermusic.org.

David McCormick, the festivals executive director, said offering both options will help make sure audiences can relax and focus on the music without worrying about whatever monkey wrenches the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic might wield at any given time.

There were many months of uncertainty in the planning stages. Is everybody going to be vaccinated at this point? Will things really be opening up? McCormick said. I think now we have a plan that will survive almost anything.
Despite being a Charlottesville General District Court matter, the hearing was held Wednesday in front of Judge Matthew Quatrara in Albemarle Circuit Court following the recusal of city Judge Andrew Sneathern.

The hearing, which had been delayed twice prior, lasted for more than two hours during which Quatrara patiently walked Hamilton step-by-step through the legal process, as the petitioner had opted to represent himself instead of hiring an attorney.

This case is of great importance to the community at large, Hamilton said during his opening statement. I believe that instead of removing statues we should re-contextualize them or add more.

Several of the arguments Hamilton attempted to make were quickly quashed as being irrelevant to the FOIA issue at hand, including a claim from the candidate that the Wednesday announcement from Mayor Nikuyah Walker that she was withdrawing as a city council candidate was related to his FOIA lawsuit. It remains unclear what led Hamilton to believe a connection existed, given Walkers openly expressed frustrations with a number of city government issues completely unrelated to Hamilton or the statue in question.
For 20 years since Sept. 11, 2001, U.S. presidents have been saying their anti-terrorism policies have worked, as evidenced by the fact that there have been no new attacks on America. While we should be grateful another attack hasnt occurred, past performance is no guarantee of future success. Fanatics are nothing but patient, as we have seen in Afghanistan.

Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark Milley has said the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan could lead to civil war and the possible reconstitution of al-Qaida. That should come as no surprise, as the goals of our enemies in the Middle East have been expressed openly for decades. Their actions have proven a commitment to killing Americans and destabilizing democracies and their economies.

Underestimating ones enemy is always a fatal error as we saw on 9/11. President Obama once dismissed al-Qaida as the JV team. In fact, it is the varsity. It is difficult to deter or destroy an ideology whose adherents are willing to die for its cause, especially when they believe they are carrying out orders from their god.
Why did he not do so?

One reason might have been that a fast-developing emergency necessitated emergency action. A mass resignation or walkout by police officers could qualify as such an emergency.

Lets be clear: We have no inside knowledge that such a dire scenario was in the offing. Perhaps some other sort of emergency came into play.

We are only seeking to understand what kind of situation might have arisen that would have justified the extraordinary act of firing the police chief without letting the City Council know.

And we are not the only ones to speculate that the termination was linked to police officer dissatisfaction with Brackneys approach. An extremely low level of morale was confirmed by a survey by the Central Virginia Chapter of the Virginia Police Benevolent Association, the results of which were released last month.

In turn, that survey confirmed some criticisms of the chief that had been collected by a city survey in 2020  the results of which were not released at the time. They were shared with the press and the public only after Brackneys termination.

The nature of the firing and Walkers subsequent comments also hint at possible friction over the larger issue of authority.
Her virtual teaching continued as first lady, from her office in the White House East Wing or hotel rooms when she traveled to promote administration policies. She grades papers on flights.

"It shatters the norms of what first ladies do," said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.

Jill Biden tries to keep her political identity out of the classroom and has said that many of her former students in Virginia had no idea she was married to the vice president. She also did not talk about it. Secret Service agents accompanied her for security, but she had them dress casually and tote backpacks in an attempt to blend into the campus environment.

But being first lady, for which there is no job description or pay, comes with a much higher level of visibility, security and scrutiny.

First ladies make numerous public appearances  with or without the president  to promote their own or the president's issues, garnering coverage from national and local news media. Vogue magazine splashed the first lady on the cover of its August issue.
On behalf of the Philomath Community Gleaners, I would like to thank the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians for its generous donation of $1,399 to our group for the purchase of food dryers and racks.

The food dryers are available for checkout to members who use them to dry produce such as berries, apples and mushrooms. The racks are essential to our operations, enabling us to move food in and out of coolers and to various locations in the Philomath Community Services facility.

We currently have 263 members, including 55 Gleaner families and 48 adoptee families (elderly or disabled), with 82 children under 18. Philomath Gleaners makes a huge difference in our lives, enabling us to feed our families healthful food that we could otherwise not afford.

Thanks to the tribe for this grant and all the good you do throughout 11 counties in Oregon!

Ann Morgan, treasurer

Philomath Community Gleaners

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The leaders of the Democratic Womens Caucus of Colorado on Tuesday slammed newly effective Texas state legislation on abortion, describing it as another way to suppress, control, and shame women over their healthcare choices.
How many games will the Broncos win during the 2021 season?

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President Joe Biden wont be making an appearance in Denvers Civic Center Park when he comes to Colorado Tuesday. The blighted area which was
The mobile telecommunications provider in Malaysia, Celcom Axiata Bhd is prepared to launch its 5G technology services by the end of this year.

The mobile network operator (MNO) said that it is on track with its 3G sunsetting plans, starting at the end of this month in phases until completion targeted by Dec 31, 2021. The telco is also working to increase 4G network coverage at 3,200 sites nationwide.

Local media reports quoted Celcom chief executive officer (CEO) Idham Nawawi as saying: "We have embarked on the 5G journey for a while and we have done more than 50 use cases throughout the year, such as in Langkawi, Petaling Jaya, Sunway and with other partners. We have had some discussions with the governments 5G special purpose vehicle (SPV) and yes, we are technically ready and prepared to roll out as soon as the network is available."

"We have spent some of the capital expenditure (CAPEX) that is needed for the 5G integration. Our core is in a way ready for 5G. It just needs to be connected to the 5G core of Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) so we can proceed with the services," he added.

He said the company has done two 3G sunset proof-of-concept between April and June in Semenyih and Klang, Selangor, and it has also completed the first pilot cluster 3G shutdown in Kuala Lumpur last month.

We are on track with our plan for nationwide 3G shutdown in stages from end-September until Dec 31, 2021," he said.

Mohamad Idham said Celcom is being very careful with the shutdown of its 3G network to ensure no implication arises on 4G users.

We will continue to work to raise the quality of our 4G network coverage and experience, as well as ensuring our customers have a seamless transition from 3G to 4G," he added.

Celcom currently has about 98% of devices on its network already on 4G devices, while less than 3% of its customers are still operating on 3G devices.

To date, Celcom has completed almost 95% of network upgrading works at approximately 9,500 sites, performed network optimisation at more than 3,600 sites, and delivered 4G coverage improvements at 3,200 sites, nationwide.
African telecommunications giant MTN Group and its Nigerian operation have had a good week with both the announcement of a new multi-country mobile payment deal for MTN Group and also a licence renewal for MTN Nigeria in the past few days.

The mobile money partnership is with African payments technology company Flutterwave. This partnership will allow businesses integrating Flutterwave in Cameroon, Cote dIvoire, Rwanda, Uganda and Zambia to receive payments via MTN Mobile Money (MoMo).

MTN MoMo is a fintech platform providing consumers and businesses with an electronic wallet, enabling electronic transfers and payments as well as access to digital and financial services.

At the end of June 2021, MTN MoMo had 48.9 million active users and 581,514 merchants. MoMo enables businesses to accept and make payments within the mobile money ecosystem. This new partnership will enable Flutterwave to offer MTN Mobile Money as a payment method to its business customers.

The new partnership will further expand on Flutterwaves previous collaboration with MTN  which involved Uganda and Rwanda  with the potential of deepening adoption of digital payments and e-commerce in Africa, a sector expected to be worth some $29 billion by 2022, according to Statista.

Meanwhile, MTN Group has announced that MTN Nigeria has renewed its operating spectrum and services licences in Nigeria for another 10 years from 1 September. MTN is Nigeria's largest mobile phone network and generates around a third of MTN's revenue.

Reuters quotes MTN as saying it paid about $174.3 million for the spectrum licence and about $910,750 for the unified access service licence.

This will be a major boost for MTN Nigerias plans to expand broadband and 4G access, notably in rural areas. MTN has said it plans to connect around 1,000 Nigerian rural communities to its network this year and an extra 2,000 communities next year.
Netcracker Technology, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NEC Corporation, extended its contract with Maxis, Malaysia's converged service provider, for its Digital OSS, which provides the underlying digital and automation foundation for Maxis including fibre optic footprint and next-gen IP network.

A joint press release said that the contract includes Netcracker Support & Maintenance professional services, with the combined offering helping to improve the customer experience for both B2C and B2B lines of business.

Netcracker Digital OSS gives Maxis the ability to automate network rollout, provide preventative maintenance, support fixed-line service fulfillment, and centralize network inventory with automated updates, it said. "This will drive cost savings, enable faster service creation, optimize productivity and improve efficiencies as the operator expands its network and standardizes operational processes," the release added.

We are thrilled to support Maxis as the leading operator in Malaysia, said Rohit Aggarwal, General Manager at Netcracker. We look forward to continuing our partnership of more than a decade so that Maxis can deliver operational excellence to its residential and enterprise customers.
In an interesting example of cooperation to avoid duplication, Tanzania is planning to use electricity infrastructure to deploy broadband services.

More precisely, the countrys Ministry of Communication and Information Technology has signed a partnership deal with the Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (Tanesco) to extend broadband connectivity using Tanescos already-installed infrastructure.

According to the Tanzanian Daily News website, this approach will triple the pace at which fibre optic internet connectivity is being delivered in the country.

Official figures show that national optical fibre connectivity is currently 8,319 kilometres, just over half the government target of 15,000 kilometres by the end of this year.

According to the Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Dr Faustine Ndugulile, the ministrys plan is to ensure that at least 94 per cent of Tanzanias citizens have access to broadband coverage. This presumably includes wireless connectivity: reports indicate a current internet reach of a little under 30 million people (the population is just over 61 million), the majority via mobile phones.

Another issue is the high cost of data. The cost per Mbps is estimated at $5, a price that could come down if fixed broadband is extended.

The plan is for TTCL to use Tanescos electric poles to distribute its fibre optic cables nationwide. Tanesco is currently linking dozens of districts to the national grid by building large-scale power distribution lines. The hope is that every home with electricity connectivity will also have internet access.

This new partnership should add more than ten regions in the Tanzanian mainland to the 21 that so far have fibre connectivity. There appears to be no precise timeline for the expansion, though the communications ministry and TTCL are said to believe it will at some stage expand broadband to at least 4,449.7km, more than twice the 1,880km targeted for the financial year 2021/22.
It may not be the worst intersection in the world, but on school days between 7:40-8:20 a.m. and 3-3:20 p.m. the corner of D Street and Mountain View Road is easily the worst intersection in Moscow.
Ongoing

COVID-19 tests will be given at the Coffee County Health Department on Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. To schedule an appointment, call 334-347-9574.

The DAV van service for local veterans will make runs to Montgomery and Tuskegee on Mondays and Fridays. The van will leave from the Hardees restaurant on Rucker Boulevard in Enterprise at 5 a.m. and from the Dothan Civic Center at 5:30 a.m. Due to COVID restrictions, there is only space for four riders each trip. Veterans who need rides to VA hospitals in Montgomery or Tuskegee can call 334-308-2480 to reserve a seat on the Enterprise van or 334-446-0866 for the Dothan van.

The Enterprise YMCA will hold square dancing classes every Monday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the main building located on Highway 27 across from Hobby Lobby in Enterprise. Singles and couples are welcome, dancing experience not required! For more information, call 334-237-0466 or 334-347-4513.

Enterprise Parks and Recreation is hosting senior aerobics at the Enterprise Farmers Market Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Make new friends, enjoy fun music and get moving!
Johnson became overwhelmed with emotion when expressing how the community and hospital have been affected by the rapid spread of the Delta variant. Unfortunately with this virus, he said, most ICU stays are followed by death.

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We are having too many, he said before pausing to gather himself. We want to continue to help people to do what they can do to help protect themselves and their families.

As part of a joint effort by FEMA and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Defense has sent two military medical response teams to Alabama at the request of Ivey. A 20-person Air Force medical team was sent to Dothans Southeast Health over a week ago.

Our team is very honored, humbled, and excited to be part of this holistic approach to responding to the crisis, Commander Maggie Parks said at a press event on the Dale Medical Center campus on Thursday. We look forward to working alongside the Dale Medical Center staff providing medical support and treatment to our fellow Americans in this local community during this time of need.

Johnson pleaded with people in the community to get the vaccine and teared up once again when describing COVID-19 patients in critical condition filled with regret.
Prosecutors have said Arbery was unarmed and was carrying no stolen items when he was slain.

The McMichaels and Bryan weren't charged in the killing until more than two months later, after the video was leaked online and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation took over the case. Now all three men are scheduled to stand trial this fall on murder charges.

Greg McMichael worked for Johnson as an investigator in the district attorney's office before retiring in 2019. Phone records introduced in court show he called Johnson and left her a voicemail soon after the shooting.

Johnson has previously denied any wrongdoing, saying she recused her office from the case immediately because of its relationship with Greg McMichael.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr's office is prosecuting Johnson. Carr sought the misconduct investigation last year, saying the first outside prosecutor he appointed to handle the case had been recommended by Johnson, who never disclosed that she had already asked that prosecutor to advise police in the immediate aftermath of Arberys killing.

That outside prosecutor, Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney George Barnhill, later recused himself  but not before sending a letter to Glynn police advising that he believed the shooting of Arbery was justified.
Lucas Bols has entered a joint venture with Edrington under the name Maxxium BeLux for distribution in Belgium and Luxembourg.

The 50/50 venture will see the full distribution of both Lucas Bols and Edrington portfolios and strengthens the partnership which started in 2009 in the Netherlands.

The Maxxium management team will be complemented by area leaders for Belgium and Luxembourg which have been recruited recently and the HQ will be based in Brussels.

We are very pleased to expand our successful long-term partnership with Edrington by establishing Maxxium BeLux together, said Huub van Doorne, CEO Lucas Bols. For Lucas Bols it represents an exciting opportunity to accelerate the growth of our portfolio of brands, particularly on leading cocktail brands like Bols Cocktails, Passoa and Pisang Ambon.

Huw Pennell, Edrington regional managing director Europe, added: Brussels is an important element of our European key city strategy for The Macallan and we are excited by the opportunities we see for the entire Edrington portfolio in Belgium.

The Maxxium BeLux company will begin operations on 1 October 2021, initially with the Lucas Bols portfolio of brands which is in the final stages of being transferred from its current distributor Remy Cointreau.

The Edrington portfolio will transition from its current distributor, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, to Maxxium BeLux in January 2022.
Two kids leave a Covid-19 centralized quarantine facility in HCMC's Thu Duc City in June along with a family member, June 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Huu Khoa

The latest coronavirus outbreak in Ho Chi Minh City has taken away the parents of 250 children and left thousands infected.

A total 250 orphans have lost either their fathers or mothers, or both parents to Covid-19, Dang Hoa Nam, head of the Department of Child Affairs under the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, told an online meeting on protecting children in the pandemic Wednesday.

"It is worrisome as many children have lost their loved ones, which easily causes psychological trauma," he said.

The epicenter of Vietnams fourth Covid-19 wave, which started late April, HCMC has so far registered 273,154 community cases and 11,074 deaths.

In the year to date, the city has recorded 14,800 children under 16 with Covid-19. Of these, 12,000 have recovered and 13 have died, according to the municipal Health Department.

Among the 3,052 existing child patients in the city, most have no or mild symptoms and are isolated at home for treatment, with doctors monitoring them from afar.

For children treated at home, doctors have set up online chat groups and hotlines to directly guide parents and caregivers on what to do every day and in case of emergency.

Those with moderate symptoms, respiratory failure, showing risks of growing severe or suffering underlying diseases (cancer, chronic kidney failure, hemophilia, obesity, etc.) must be hospitalized, said Nguyen Minh Tien, deputy director of HCMC Children's Hospital.

"The rate of children turning severe and critical in Vietnam is about 1 percent," he said, adding that it is much lower than 20 percent among adults.

According to the Child Affairs Department, for the ongoing wave, the nation has recorded more than 11,800 child Covid-19 patients.
Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Truong Son has called for lesser workloads for medics in HCMCs Covid-19 field hospitals, saying constantly overloading them can affect treatment quality.

At Covid-19 field hospitals across the city, a doctor and nurse have to take care of 140-150 patients on average, and each has to work eight-ten hours straight in protective suits, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte disorders, Son said.

Son, who is also head of the Special Standing Unit of the Ministry of Health in Ho Chi Minh City, mentioned the medics plight in a statement sent Monday to the HCMC Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control.

Each medical worker is in charge of a large number of patients and this will reduce the quality of treatment and care, he said, based on findings of the special standing unit that inspected and worked with a number of field hospitals treating Covid-19 patients.

In case doctors and nurses have to take the emergency shift, they will have to work 12 hours a day, he noted. When medics have to spend time completing administrative reports after finishing their professional work, they too have to work 12 hours a day.

"Excessive work pressure directly affects the health of medical staff," Son said.

Every day, Covid-19 medics are offered meals valued at VND120,000 ($5.27) per day; but if they get infected, they are treated like any other patient, and the budget for their daily meals drops to VND80,000 per day.

Medics who come from other regions to fight the pandemic in HCMC have found it difficult to consume food cooked in ways that are different from what they are used to. This makes them lose their appetite and their health is affected.

Even going out to buy snacks is a stressful process for the medics because they are strictly questioned and intrusively inspected by checkpoint task forces. Many have reported being asked to open their bags for checking.

Son said hospitals must now guarantee medics enough time off at the end of their shift, avoid their having to work nonstop for a long time, and restrict the use of medical staff in administrative positions.

When there is a lack of human resources for administrative tasks, students and volunteers can be mobilized, the ministry has suggested.

Food suppliers should also adjust their dishes to suit the taste of those from different regions and there should be no drop in the quality of meals for infected medics, Son said.

In the ongoing wave, more than 16,000 medics from the northern and central region have volunteered to work in HCMC and other nearby provinces.

HCMC has recorded 273,154 cases in the new wave and lost 11,074 lives.

Pham Duc Hai, deputy head of the HCMC Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control, said the city now has more than 117,300 staff in the frontline of the Covid-19 fight, including 24,000 from ministries and related agencies.

The Health Ministry said Monday that health departments across the country should ensure enough human resources at medical examination and treatment facilities and arrange backup teams in case medics contract Covid-19 and have to be isolated.

However, " those voluntarily quitting or violating regulations on professional ethics, the ministry would consider administrative discipline or deprive them of the right to use their practicing certificates," it said.

Since the pandemic began until Aug. 9, more than 2,300 medical workers in Vietnam have been infected with the novel coronavirus, according to the National Union of Health Workers. Three have lost their lives.
A health worker gives a woman a Covid-19 vaccine shot in HCMC's Thu Duc City, August 15, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Thanh Nguyen

The Ministry of Health has given the green light for switching between the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines based on availability, saying it has been done in many other countries.

In its announcement Wednesday it said further if the first shot was a AstraZeneca vaccine, the second could be a Pfizer or Moderna shot.

Both Moderna and Pfizer utilize mRNA to elicit an immune response.

Due to a shortage, several countries have looked into mixing Covid vaccines.

Vietnam first allowed AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines to be mixed in July.

Ho Chi Minh City, epicenter of the fourth coronavirus wave, has let many people who first got a Moderna vaccine to switch to Pfizer as the supply of the former has run out.

Vietnam has vaccinated over 23.5 million people, with 3.7 million getting two shots.
With domestic flights suspended due to the Covid threat, many foreigners living outside major cities have had their travel plans upended.

Wayne Watts, an Australian living in Da Nang, had booked a Vietnam Airlines ticket to Hanoi on September 7 for catching an onward flight the same day to the U.S. for work.

But last week the airline informed him his flight had been canceled.

"I knew the pandemic situation in Vietnam turned complicated but many people still have personal jobs to deal with and they need a flight to travel between localities," he told VnExpress International.

All public transport has in fact been suspended and he had to cancel his travel plans. "If I hire a private car, it would cost me up to VND15 million ($660) and it is not a smart choice for now."

Martin Well, a Briton living in the Central Highlands province of Gia Lai, also needed to fly to Hanoi for paperwork at his embassy in preparation for his marriage with a Vietnamese woman.

He said: "My wife is five months pregnant. We need to go to the British embassy in Hanoi to apply for a single status certificate so that we could get the marriage certificate. We need this to live together as our baby is to come in January."

"I totally understand Covid is terrible and messed up plans for all of the world but I dont know how to contact my embassy to deal with my personal issues."

Bunso Ako, a Filipino living in Da Nang, said he planned to visit Hanoi on September 11 for visa and work issues.

"I heard again from other foreigners that all domestic passenger flights had been canceled due to the pandemic situation. I called Vietnam Airlines to confirm and yes, it is true.

"I don't want to hire a private car because it is very expensive now. I only hope flights or trains will soon resume."

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) on August 30 instructed airlines to stop selling tickets on domestic flights until further notice and refund customers who have bought tickets.

Airlines now only operate flights carrying goods and passengers involved in Covid-related work.

However, international commercial flights carrying passengers to the U.S. and some Asian and European destinations are still allowed with reduced services.

Vietnam closed its borders and canceled all international flights in March last year, and has since allowed only certain categories of visitors with strict Covid-19 quarantine requirements.

Vo Huy Cuong, deputy head of the CAAV, said if the pandemic is brought under control by the end of this month, regular domestic flights could resume.
NERC CEO Jim Robb observed that in our hurry to develop a cleaner resource base, reliability and energy adequacy has to be taken into consideration. He added, I know that operators and planners are working very, very hard to preserve reliability, but theyre continually asked to do so and manage your grid under more and more challenging conditions.

If policymakers are aware of these warnings  and are at all concerned  they certainly arent acting like it. Since Europes green energy agenda seems to be the model for whats being proposed in Washington, perhaps Green New Dealers should pay closer attention to whats happening across the Atlantic.

Europes rush to decarbonize has come with economy-cratering consequences. Not only are utilities across Europe concerned that they wont be able to keep the lights on, but the cost of energy is soaring. Wholesale electricity rates in Germany  already the most expensive in Europe  have jumped 60 percent this year. In Britain, regulators are expected to approve a request from utilities to raise rates for a second time this year, just to keep up with costs. And in Spain, electricity prices are now double what they were two years ago.

A less reliable supply of power and soaring costs are not the right path forward for Americans. Instead, policymakers must put affordability and reliability front and center in the ongoing energy transition. A balanced electricity mix that preserves fuel security while using existing energy infrastructure and resources is not only a responsible approach, its the one Americans demand.

Matthew Kandrach is president of Consumer Action for a Strong Economy, a free-market advocacy organization.

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COVID-19 affected Cambodian students receive support. (Photo: TDO)

The delegation went to the accommodations of COVID-affected Cambodian students living in dormitories and hostels in Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy Districts, allocating 17 presents.

Each gift includes VND500,000 in cash and necessities such as rice, instant noodles, vegetables, antiseptic liquid, face shield and face masks.

Ms. Le Thi Thanh Giang, Chairwoman of the Can Tho City Union of Friendship Organizations, said that the presents aim to ease the difficulties of Cambodian students who are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program aims to give more motivation to Cambodian students to overcome the difficult time when they cannot return to their home country; at the same time, contributing to fostering the traditional solidarity and friendly relationship between the two peoples of Vietnam and Cambodia, she said.

Leung Ylang, a Cambodian student studying at Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, shared that he was very grateful for the gifts from the Vietnamese city. Due to the pandemic, I have not been able to go home for more than 2 years. I am very happy to receive the attention of the local authority in your country, he added./.




National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue was welcomed at Melsbroek airport. (Photo: VNA)

The visit, made at the invitation of EP President of the European Parliament David Sassoli, followed Hues attendance at the 5th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament (WCSP5) in Austria.

The delegation included member of the NA Standing Committee, NA Secretary General and Chairman of the NA Office Bui Van Cuong; Chairman of the NA's Committee for External Relations Vu Hai Ha; and Chairman of the NA's Budget and Finance Committee Nguyen Phu Cuong.

The top legislator has also been accompanied by Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan, Secretary of the Party Committee of Hai Phong city Tran Luu Quang, Deputy Minister of Public Security Lieutenant General Luong Tam Quang, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs To Anh Dung, Deputy Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Le Van Thanh, and Vietnamese Ambassador to Belgium and Head of Vietnams Delegation to the EU Nguyen Van Thao, among others.

The delegation was welcomed at Melsbroek airport by Andries Gryffroy, First Vice President of the Belgian Senate, Chairman of the Belgium-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians Group and President of the Belgium-Vietnam Alliance and other officials.

The visit aims to implement the 13th National Party Congresss foreign policy and strengthen Vietnam-European Union and Vietnam-Belgium relations.

It is also expected to promote international cooperation in the fight against COVID-19 and Vietnams vaccine diplomacy, and demonstrate Vietnams efforts to join hands with other nations and business communities in maintaining global supply and production chains and seeking solutions to boost sustainable economic recovery in the post-pandemic period./.
Welcoming the Vietnamese leader, Sassoli highly valued the countrys role in the region, stressing the EP and Vietnam share common interests in multiple areas and that the EP wants to enhance all-round cooperation with the country in such fields as trade and investment, COVID-19 prevention and control, and response to climate change, including challenges to water resources, saltwater intrusion, and drought.



Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue (L) and President of the European Parliament David Sassoli pose for a photo ahead of their meeting on September 8 (Photo: VNA)



NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue affirmed that the European Union (EU) is a partner of leading importance in Vietnams foreign and international integration policies.



The two sides have maintained high-level meetings; signed and effectively implemented many important cooperation agreements such as the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and the Framework Participation Agreement (FPA); and maintained regular cooperation and dialogue cooperation mechanisms, thereby helping to lift the Vietnam - EU comprehensive partnership and cooperation, including the ties between the Vietnamese NA and the EP, to a new height, according to the Chairman.



At the talks, the two leaders discussed issues to further intensify the two parliaments ties so as to help develop Vietnam - EU relations more strongly for the sake of both sides.



To promote economic and trade links comprehensively, NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue expressed his hope that the EP will help promote its member parliaments ratification of the EU - Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) to step up investment cooperation while continuing to facilitate the implementation of the EVFTA.



Regarding collaboration in the COVID-19 combat, he thanked the EP, relevant agencies of the EU, and parliamentarians groups in the EP for supporting and assisting Vietnam in the fight. He also echoed the EPs viewpoint that only solidarity, sharing, and confidence of victory can help people address the pandemics consequences and return to a new normal life.



Particularly, NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue said, as the pandemic is developing more complicatedly, it requires stronger inter-regional (between ASEAN and the EU) and global cooperation to continue maintaining achievements in socio-economic development.

He also voiced his hope that the EP will accelerate vaccine supply from Europe via the COVAX Facility and sharing of redundant vaccines, along with medical supplies and COVID-19 drugs, and cooperate with the country in vaccine production.



Vietnam is ready to make all-round preparations to become a regional vaccine production centre, the top Vietnamese legislator emphasised.



He also took this occasion to ask the EP to support the removal of the yellow card warning on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing against Vietnams fishery sector to help guarantee livelihoods for Vietnamese fishermen. He stated that the country has been exerting every effort to deal with the problem and gained positive outcomes.



The talks between the leaders of the Vietnamese NA and the EP in Brussels on September 8 (Photo: VNA)



With regard to bilateral parliamentary cooperation, the NA Chairman held that the achievements obtained so far should be promoted, and both sides should increase contacts at all levels.



Given this, he invited the EP President to visit Vietnam to discuss issues of common concern, including the establishment of practical and effective cooperation frameworks between the two parliaments.



For his part, Sassoli said the EVFTA is an exemplary cooperation model, adding that the EP has ratified the EVIPA and is promoting the remaining member parliaments ratification.



The EP sympathises with Vietnams current difficulties and will strive to seek vaccine and medical supplies for the countrys fight against COVID-19 as soon as possible, he noted.



The two leaders shared the view that relations between the Vietnamese NA and the EP are flourishing in both bilateral and multilateral channels, agreeing to increase the exchange of all-level delegations and share information and experience in parliamentary activities.



During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on issues related to international peace, security, and cooperation and underlined the role of international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in settling disputes and maintaining security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight.



They also agreed to closely coordinate and make active contributions to regional and international forums.



Following the talks, Hue received heads of the EPs Committee on International Trade (INTA), the delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and ASEAN (DASE), the EPs parliamentary friendship group. They looked into measures to reinforce ties in areas of common interest, including trade and EVFTA implementation./.
Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam (Photo: VNA)



He made the request at a working session with representatives from the MoET, the Vietnam Association for Promoting Education, and radio and television channels.



The ministry was also urged to coordinate with radio and television channels in setting the broadcasting timeline with the best coverage.



The Ministry of Information and Communications and network operators need to ensure the transmission line, Dam said.



The participants shared the view that learning online should be the main method, which would be supported by television lessons amid COVID-19.

Learning online should be the main method, which would be supported by television lessons amid COVID-19. (Photo: VNA)



According to the ministry, the learning and teaching have met a raft of difficulties during the first days of the 2021-2022 school year due to the impact of the pandemic.



In Ho Chi Minh City  the countrys current biggest pandemic hotspot, up to 77,000 students lack electric devices for online learning. In some other localities, 50-70 percent of students have no equipment, and students in many hamlets are unable to access the internet to study.



MoET Minister Nguyen Kim Son affirmed that the ministry will adjust the academic calendar and exams this year./.
Illustrative photo (Source: VNA)

Even with the supply chain and shutdown problems they have because of COVID-19 right now, Vietnams still going to do very well economically and its becoming, every day, a more important piece of the global supply chain - especially for things that affect American consumers, Adam Sitkoff, Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi, said on Bloomberg.

According to Mr. Adam Sitkoff, although the pandemic got in the way of further supply-chain gains and with the full vaccination rate still under 3%, Vietnam is attracting investment, including from further relocations out of China. He highlighted Vietnams best-in-Asia growth performance last year at 2.9%.

The article on Bloomberg stressed that analysts at Australia & New Zealand Banking Group Ltd. sounded a similar tone in a report on September 7, highlighting Vietnams longer-term prospects despite the current deep slump in domestic demand.

Beyond the near-term challenges, Vietnams medium term economic prospects remain favorable, analysts including Dhiraj Nim and Khoon Goh wrote in the report, which also warned of downside risks to ANZs 5.2% full-year 2021 growth forecast. The pandemic has not changed the countrys attractiveness as a manufacturing hub. There is also ample room for policy support to nurture economic recovery further.
Israeli soldiers guard the security fence near the West Bank city of Jenin, on Sept. 8, 2021. Israel's army said Wednesday it was extending the closure on the West Bank and Gaza due to a manhunt for six Palestinian escapees who tunneled their way out of jail on Monday. (Photo by Gil Eliyahu /JINI via Xinhua)

JERUSALEM, Sept. 8 (Xinhua) -- Israel's army said Wednesday it was extending the closure on the West Bank and Gaza due to a manhunt for six Palestinian escapees who tunneled their way out of jail on Monday.

"In an effort to locate the escaped prisoners, it has been decided to extend the general closure," an Israeli military spokesperson said in a statement.

It said the closure, originally planned to end on Wednesday at midnight, now will continue until Saturday night. Lifting the closure will be "subject to a situational assessment," the statement read.

The crossings for the transfer of goods into the Gaza Strip and the West Bank will open as planned on Wednesday. However, all of the other crossings will remain closed and Palestinians could pass through them only "under special or medical circumstances and on a humanitarian basis."

The closure has been imposed on Monday afternoon, right before the Jewish New Year.

Israel considers the main Jewish holidays as prone to attacks by Palestinian militants and regularly closes off the occupied territories during these times. Enditem

7

1

Editor: GSY
(Photo source: Xinhua)

At present, COVID-19 continues to spread across the globe and hit some parts of the world hard. It remains a huge challenge to put the pandemic under control. Two hundred and twenty million COVID cases have been reported all over the world with 4.5 million deaths from the coronavirus. No country can handle the pandemic on its own in a connected world. As the only superpower in the world, the US has put the health of people from all over the world at risk and made global health governance a place of US hegemonism and unilateralism where the US shifts blame to other countries and divides international cooperation on the fight against the pandemic.

Frequent acts of US health hegemonism

On January 30, the WHO declared the coronavirus a public health emergency of international concern. The US did not strengthen the prevention and control of the pandemic and failed to lead and promote global cooperation in combating the pandemic as a major country. On the contrary, the US sought to marginalize the WHO and used the pandemic to promote health hegemonism.

Under the Trump administration, the WHO became the primary target of US health hegemonism. On February 10, 2020, the White House proposed to slash the funds for the WHO and global health projects in the 2021 federal government budget submitted to the Congress. The financial support for the WTO would be cut by 52.8 per cent from $123 million to $58 million. As the pandemic continued to sweep across the US, the Trump administration shifted the blame to the WHO and intensified attack on the WHO. In April of 2020, Trump announced at a White House briefing that the US government would suspend the funds to the WHO. In May 2020, Trump announced that the US had withdrawn from the WHO and stopped giving any funding to the organization. In July, the US initiated the procedure to exit the WHO at the UN. Despite the blame for US hegemonism from the international community, the Trump administration was always at odds with international cooperation.

When Joe Biden took office, the US announced to return to the WHO in a high profile. However, the US did not reinforce the role of the WHO in global health cooperation against the pandemic, but sought to divide WHO member states to reduce the WHO to a tool of US hegemonism. On the one hand, the US has used the WHO to politicize the tracing of the coronavirus. At the World Health Assembly in May 2021, the US representative doubted the resolutions adopted at the assembly to cope with the pandemic. Regardless of the fair WHO investigation, the US put much pressure on the WHO and attempted to manipulate the proposed second-phase investigation into the origin of the novel coronavirus citing science and transparency. On the other hand, the US has been selling its own standards for COVID prevention, vaccine production and inoculation and attempted to turn the US standards into international standards. In addition, while claiming to support the WHO, the Biden administration bypassed the WHO and directed the US intelligence community to investigate the origins of the novel coronavirus.

Global health cooperation undermined

US health hegemonism has undermined global cooperation in combating the pandemic and failed to stem the pandemic. US violation of international norms and the idea of social contract and US exit from and re-entry into the WHO have weakened the authority of international organizations in global health cooperation against the pandemic and have fueled unilateralism, setting a bad example for global health cooperation. Reality has proven that US hegemonism is the biggest challenge for global health cooperation, which has undermined resource allocation in global health cooperation, pushed the world into the health crisis and brought great losses to the US. The US has reported more than 40 million cases with over 660,000 deaths. The US tops the world in daily new cases with more than 50,000 new cases per day. Under the influence of hegemonism, US politicians are bent on spreading political virus, which has cast a shadow over global health cooperation.

On the one hand, US health hegemonism has the tendency to politicize global cooperation in combating the pandemic. Due to US health hegemonism, the US has made global public health governance a venue for competition between countries. In the face of the global pandemic, the US has not only failed to pool its resources together for global anti-pandemic cooperation, but also politicized virus tracing, prevention and control and vaccine distribution, posing a great challenge to global health cooperation. The US resorts to zero-sum game, dodges its obligations and responsibilities, and seeks to dominate the global anti-pandemic narrative by all means, undermining the legitimacy and inclusiveness in global governance. Meanwhile, some US politicians have linked the pandemic to specific races for political purposes to intensify racial conflicts and racial antagonism, leading to incidents of discrimination and violence against specific races in many countries, including the US.

On the other hand, health hegemonism has increasingly become a tool to manipulate global health cooperation against the pandemic. To the US, global health cooperation has been a tool to blackmail international institutions and other countries. The US adopts international norms and mechanisms that serve its own interests, but abandon those that dont. The US challenges human ethics by employing diplomacy of coercion. At the same time, the US attacks those against it and adopts dual standards for itself and foreign countries, for its allies and non-allies, which has undermined the equity and fairness of global cooperation against the pandemic.

Build a health community for all

While posing a major challenge to humanity, the COVID-19 pandemic has made the idea of a community of shared future for humanity take roots in peoples hearts. Solidarity and cooperation are the most powerful weapon against the pandemic. Although humans are not immune from the pandemic, solidarity and cooperation can minimize the impact of the pandemic. All countries need to oppose health hegemonism in all forms, any attempts to label the virus, politicize virus tracing, smear pandemic control and prevention, or vaccine racism to clear all obstacles to global anti-pandemic cooperation and build a health community for all.

To oppose health hegemonism and build a health community for all, we need to uphold the common values of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom and safeguard the common interests of all humans. The common values of all humans are shared by all countries, all nations and all groups and the fundamental purpose is to safeguard the common interests of all humans. Health hegemonism is the product of Western-dominated values that not only deviate from the common needs and interests of all humans, but also harm the interests of Western countries. The COVID-19 pandemic has taught that only by adhering to the idea of a community for all and coordinating common interests of all people and nations, can we successfully fight the pandemic and achieve national interests.

At the same time, safeguarding and practicing multilateralism lies in opposing health hegemonism and building a health community for all. Global challenges require the efforts from the international community, and multilateralism is a necessary solution to global challenges. Global cooperation against the pandemic is committed to seeking global solutions and is an important part of multilateralism. In the face of global challenges, all countries need to follow the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits so that the torch of multilateralism can light up the road ahead for mankind. China advocates true multilateralism, openness and inclusiveness. China is committed to consultation and cooperation on the basis of international norms and will not provoke confrontation. China is ready to keep pace with the times. These ideas are Chinas solutions to global challenges and the weapons of the world to oppose health hegemonism.

Contributed by Xu Xiujun, researcher for Research Institute of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

Translated by Wu Zidan

Editor: Zhang Zhou
Two soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine were wounded by shrapnel in Donbas as a result of shelling by Russian-occupation forces, the Joint Force Operation (JFO) press center said.

"Today, on September 8, the Russian armed formations once again violated the ceasefire and fired at the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the area of responsibility of the Skhid (East) task force. As a result of enemy fire, two servicemen of the Joint Forces received shrapnel wounds," the JFO said.

It is noted that the wounded soldiers were provided with the necessary medical care and were hospitalized in a military hospital in a state of moderate severity.
Based on the results of the visit of President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky to the United States, four key areas have been identified, in which work will now be performed not only in order to successfully implement the agreements between the presidents of Ukraine and the United States, but also in order to make Ukraine stronger, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba has said.

"The first area is defense and security. We will work for the United States to further support the strengthening of Ukrainian defense capabilities, from training the Armed Forces of Ukraine to the transfer or sale of military equipment and weapons as needed to Ukraine," Kuleba said at an online briefing in Thursday.

According to him, the second block is energy. Kuleba said the meeting with the U.S. Secretary of Energy was effective. "We talked not only traditionally about gas, but also about renewable energy, hydrogen energy," Kuleba said.

The minister also said the third direction is the process-related and environmental transformation of Ukraine.

"It was not in vain that the president visited California, San Francisco and became the first, by the way, the president of Ukraine, who, in 30 years of Ukraine's independence, reached the western coast, where businesses, huge companies in the IT and aerospace industries are located. San Francisco, today every business is a digital business, and here huge opportunities are opening up for Ukraine, on which we will work," he said.

Kuleba said the fourth direction is the strengthening of democracy and the rule of law.

"We have confirmed our intention to develop Ukraine as a democratic state, as a stronghold of democracy in the region, and we will focus on this," the Foreign Minister said.

According to Kuleba, Zelensky's visit brought the U.S.-Ukrainian strategic partnership to a new level.
Appeal sent to Rada on appointment of early elections for Kryvy Rih mayor

Acting Mayor of Kryvy Rih Yuriy Vilkul has sent an appeal to the Verkhovna Rada on the appointment of early elections for the mayor of the city in connection with the death of the previous mayor Kostiantyn Pavlov.

"I appeal to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine with a request to schedule an early election of Kryvy Rih mayor of Kryvy Rih district of Dnipropetrovsk region in connection with the death of Kryvy Rih mayor Kostiantyn Yuriyovych Pavlov," a document released by the press service of Kryvy Rih Town Council on Thursday says.

It is noted that the new elections of the mayor of Kryvy Rih may take place as early as March 2022.

As reported, mayor of Krivy Rih Kostiantyn Pavlov was found dead on the doorstep of his house on August 15. The National Police of Ukraine opened criminal proceedings under Article 115 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (premeditated murder).

The investigation is considering three main versions of the incident - murder, suicide, as well as careless handling of weapons. The version of leading to suicide is not excluded either.

It is said that one wound from a Saiga carbine was found on the body of the deceased. The weapons seized at the scene were sent for a comprehensive examination.
Akkerman Solutions LLC is the first company in Ukraine has been honored to be certified in accordance with the UN 17 SDG

To achieve a better and more sustainable future for all, United Nations in 2015 set up the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals. They were published in a UN Resolution in 2017 that companies and organisations can be evaluated and certified, if they live up to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

UN 17 SDG include targets as No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Quality Education, Affordable and clean Energy, Decent work and economic growth etc. Bureau Veritas is one of the auditing companies that certifies companies in accordance with the UN 17 SDG.

Generally not a lot of companies has been certified until now. In Denmark it is around 20 companies, in Ukraine no companies has achieved the certification. Or rather no companies had achieved the certification, but Danish owned engineering and software company Akkerman Solutions LLC (former known as BIIR Ukraine) has just become the first company in Ukraine to be certified in accordance with the UN 17 SDG in August 2021.

Company owner Thomas Sillesen comments how business in Denmark look upon the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals, that Denmark traditionally have had a great focus on sustainability and renewable energy, being among others the leader in wind energy worldwide.

However, even in Denmark, achieving certification in the UN 17 Sustainable Development Goals is rare achievement. Around 20 companies so far is certified in Denmark, but the interest is massive, and a lot of companies are rushing to get certified. Like so often before, it is a movement, that will start slow, and then grow.

Mister Sillesen explains: We have seen the same with ISO9001 certifications. In the beginning nobody cared, but over time it changed, and now it is often a must, if you want to establish a business relationship with another company. In a few years time, UN 17 SDGs will also be a competitive advantage for companies that wants to do business. And I think most companies wants to do that, - Thomas Sillesen says with a smile.

Also the Akkerman Solutions LLS founder continues: In reality this was a no-brainer. Ever since I set foot in Ukraine in 2013, I saw Ukraines huge potential, but also knew, that it would be my obligation to try to combine the best of Denmark, with the best of Ukraine, to really make a special company. During all the years, we have tried to live up to this, and the UN 17 SDG is a natural proof we have actually achieved this goal so far.

Currently Akkerman Solutions LLC are growing pretty fast, and they will move in this direction.

More info about the company is available on official site and social media LinkedIn:

http://akkerman.dk/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/akkerman/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true
The logo of German utility and energy supplier RWE is pictured next to a traffic light outside RWE's lignite power plant in Weisweiler near the western German city of Aachen, Germany (Photo : REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay)

Activist fund ENKRAFT has taken a stake in RWE and is calling for a separation of the company's brown coal activities to remove the burden of a legacy business that has weighed on the value of shares in Germany's largest power producer.



ENKRAFT, which has a track record in investing in the renewable energy sector, now holds more than 500,000 shares in RWE -- worth 16.4 million euros ($19 million) at current prices -- it said in a letter to management seen by Reuters.



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This gives it the right to request items be put on the agenda of annual general meetings under German stock market regulation.



Activist investor Engine No. 1 has shown that small stakes can be effective when it won three board seats at oil major Exxon Mobil earlier this year through what sources said was a mere $12.5 million investment.



RWE has undergone a major shift in recent years and is now one of Europe's largest renewable players with an installed capacity of 9.4 gigawatts (GW), a result of the break-up of former division Innogy in a deal with E.ON.



The company plans to boost its renewables portfolio to more than 13 GW by the end of 2022 via net investments of 5 billion euros.



At the same time, it still operates legacy nuclear and coal assets, both marked for gradual shutdowns as part of Germany's efforts to raise its share of renewables and cut carbon dioxide emissions to be in line with the Paris climate agreement.



RWE is "no longer investible" for many under stricter sustainability criteria, ENKRAFT said in the letter addressed to RWE Chief Executive Markus Krebber, who took the helm in May.



RWE's EV/EBITDA multiple - a valuation metric that measures the ratio between enterprise value and core earnings - is 7.8, according to Refinitiv data, a steep discount to renewable energy pure plays including Denmark's Orsted and Portugal's EDPR, which trade at 17.8 and 14.7, respectively.



POTENTIAL TO RAISE VALUE



Separating RWE's brown coal, or lignite, operations would be a way to close that gap and create value, ENKRAFT said in the letter.



"We are convinced that a focus on the promising renewable energy business and a fast and possibly gradual separation of the lignite activities brings with it an enormous potential to raise value," ENKRAFT managing director Benedikt Kormaier said.



A spokesperson for RWE confirmed ENKRAFT's approach: "As is the case with every investor we have offered them to have a conversation about our business strategy."



At the end of 2020, RWE had 8.55 GW of lignite assets, accounting for more than a fifth of its total installed generation capacity and also making it one of Europe's largest emitters of CO2.



RWE's continued exposure to coal has caused concern among some investors, with Norway's sovereign wealth fund selling its stake last year and top-10 investor Amundi criticising the speed of its planned phase-out of the fuel.



Shareholders Deka Investment and Union Investment have also called for an acceleration of the group's brown coal exit, which under current agreements with the German government will happen by 2038 at the latest.



ENKRAFT also said an accelerated phase-out could possibly realise hidden reserves of up to 13 billion euros which it estimates are tied to RWE's purchase of carbon emission permits.



Krebber last month said there were no plans to change RWE's structure -- which spans offshore, onshore, solar as well as coal and nuclear -- adding that all technologies were needed to address the energy transition.



ENKRAFT also owns shares in renewable project developers PNE AG and Energiekontor.



($1 = 0.8461 euros)


Tesla CEO Elon Musk gestures as he visits the construction site of Tesla's Gigafactory in Gruenheide near Berlin, Germany (Photo : Patrick Pleul/Pool via Reuters/File Photo)

Amazon.com Inc told U.S. regulators on Wednesday that Elon Musk does not believe government regulations apply to the billionaire who heads Tesla Inc and SpaceX as the companies spar over rival satellite-based internet plans.



In a harshly worded filing with the Federal Communications Commission, Amazon accused Musk of ignoring a variety of government-imposed rules, including several Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.



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"Whether it is launching satellites with unlicensed antennas, launching rockets without approval, building an unapproved launch tower, or re-opening a factory in violation of a shelter-in-place order, the conduct of SpaceX and other Musk-led companies makes their view plain: rules are for other people, and those who insist upon or even simply request compliance are deserving of derision and ad hominem attacks," Amazon wrote. "If the FCC regulated hypocrisy, SpaceX would be keeping the commission very busy."



Both SpaceX and Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. The FCC and FAA declined to comment.



Amazon's Project Kuiper, a planned $10 billion network of over 3,000 satellites that will provide high-speed internet from space, faces stiff competition from SpaceX's Starlink network.



Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Musk are rivals in the private space launch business. Bezos' Blue Origin has challenged the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's decision to award a $2.9 billion lunar lander contract to SpaceX.



Amazon on Aug. 25 asked the FCC to reject a proposed SpaceX revision to its satellite configuration plans, saying it was at odds with FCC rules and left "nearly every major detail unsettled."



Last week, SpaceX accused Amazon in its own filing with the FCC of seeking to delay SpaceX's plan, saying it was "only the latest in its continuing efforts to slow down competition."



SpaceX added: "While SpaceX has proceeded to deploy more than 1,700 satellites, Amazon has yet to even attempt to address the radiofrequency interference and orbital debris issues that must be resolved before Amazon can deploy its constellation."



SpaceX suggested Amazon "as it falls behind competitors ... is more than willing to use regulatory and legal processes to create obstacles designed to delay those competitors from leaving Amazon even further behind."



Amazon's filing said "SpaceX has just one name for any private company that dares point out its flouting of laws and regulations: 'anticompetitive.'"


U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken attends a meeting with his German counterpart at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, as they will hold a virtual 20-nation ministerial meeting on the crisis (Photo : Olivier Douliery/Pool via REUTERS)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday said a provisional Afghan cabinet was not the inclusive government the Taliban had promised and that the Islamist group needs to earn the international legitimacy and support it seeks.



Blinken, visiting a U.S. air base in Germany that has been a transit point for evacuees from Afghanistan, also called on the Taliban to allow charter flights carrying Americans and at-risk Afghans to depart the country.



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Taliban leaders filled all the top posts https://www.reuters.com/world/india/taliban-fire-air-scatter-kabul-protesters-no-reports-injuries-2021-09-07 in the government named on Tuesday, while an associate of the group's founder was named prime minister and the new interior minister appears on a U.S. terrorism wanted list.



"We're assessing the announcement but despite professing that a new government would be inclusive, the announced list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates, and no women," Blinken said at a news conference.



Washington was "concerned by the affiliations and track records of some of those individuals," Blinken added.



Blinken and his German counterpart Heiko Maas held a joint news conference after convening a virtual meeting of 22 foreign ministers plus officials from NATO, the European Union and the United Nations.



Blinken said all those in the meeting agreed on the need to hold the Taliban accountable before giving the new government legitimacy.



"The Taliban seek international legitimacy and support. Any legitimacy, any support, will have to be earned," Blinken said.



The United Nations has said basic services are unraveling https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/un-says-basic-services-afghanistan-are-collapsing-2021-09-07 in Afghanistan with food and other aid about to run out.



Small numbers of Americans still remain in the country, and their family members and other Afghans at risk continue to try to leave, but flights have been largely grounded since U.S. forces left Kabul's airport on Aug. 31.



Planes chartered to carry people out of Afghanistan have been stuck at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, sparking calls for the State Department to do more to facilitate their departure.



Blinken said the United States was doing everything in its power to get the flights off the ground, but the Taliban was not permitting the flights to depart.



"We've made clear to all parties, we've made clear to the Taliban that these charters need to be able to depart," Blinken said.


Soldiers stand next to military vehicles as people gather to protest against the military coup, in Yangon, Myanmar, (Photo : REUTERS/Stringer)

Southeast Asian and Western countries have urged all sides in Myanmar to refrain from violence and allow in humanitarian aid, after a shadow government, formed by opponents of military rule, declared a nationwide uprising against the junta.



The National Unity Government (NUG) said on Tuesday it was launching a "people's defensive war" https://reut.rs/3zWzZY7 in a bid to coordinate groups fighting the military and convince troops and administration officials to switch sides.



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A military spokesman dismissed that as a futile effort to gain world attention.



Security forces were out in strength in Myanmar's biggest city, Yangon, on Wednesday, a day after protests and a flare-up in fighting between the army and ethnic minority insurgents.



"All parties must prioritise the safety and well-being of the Myanmar people," Indonesian foreign ministry spokesman Teuku Faizasyah said, noting that security was necessary for humanitarian assistance to proceed.



Indonesia has taken a lead among Myanmar's neighbours in trying to resolve a crisis triggered when the military toppled the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb. 1.



Britain's Ambassador to Myanmar Pete Vowles on Facebook condemned the coup and what he called brutality by the junta and urged "all sides to engage in dialogue".



Security forces have killed hundreds of protesters https://reut.rs/3sze8TG since the coup while some junta opponents have formed armed groups under the banner of People's Defence Forces.



They have also forged alliances with ethnic minority armies long at odds with Myanmar's military.



Big protests took place in Sagaing, Magway, and Mandalay on Wednesday, while media reported fighting between the army and Kachin rebels.



It was not immediately clear if the developments were in response to the NUG's call and it remains to be seen to what extent the shadow government can influence the course of events.



"The NUG declaration has received strong support on Myanmar social media," said Richard Horsey, a Myanmar expert at the International Crisis Group.



But he said it was not clear if opposition forces had the capacity to escalate the fight against Myanmar's well-equipped military and the NUG's declaration of "war" might backfire by making it harder for some countries to support it.



'BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD'



Chris Sidoti of the Special Advisory Council for Myanmar, a panel of international experts, said the NUG was frustrated by the junta's brutality and inaction by the international community.



"Violence is the cause of the suffering of the people of Myanmar, it is not the solution," Sidoti said.



"We empathise with the NUG, but we fear for what will happen as a result of this decision."



The NUG's defence ministry on Wednesday said 29 soldiers were killed in clashes in four regions and an unspecified number had defected. Reuters could not independently verify the information.



While Western countries have imposed sanctions to press the junta, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has led efforts for a diplomatic solution, but some members of the bloc, including Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia, are exasperated by the absence of progress on a peace plan the junta had agreed to https://reut.rs/3tplB8e.



"Now with the latest event, you really have to go back to the drawing board," Malaysian foreign minister Saifuddin Abdullah, told a news conference, referring to the NUG's call for a revolt.



An ASEAN envoy to Myanmar, Erywan Yusof, was quoted as saying at the weekend that the military had accepted his proposal for a ceasefire https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/myanmar-junta-agrees-asean-call-ceasefire-distribute-aid-kyodo-2021-09-06 to allow aid distribution.



But no side in the conflict has confirmed this.



Asked on Wednesday for his response to the NUG announcement, his office said: "The Special Envoy is monitoring the situation closely."



In Washington, a U.S. State Department spokesperson noted the declaration of a "people's defensive war" but called for peace to allow the aid and medicine delivery, the U.S.-funded Radio Free Asia reported.



"The United States does not condone violence as a solution to the current crisis," said the spokesman.



While most Western countries have condemned the army for ousting Suu Kyi's government, China, which has considerable economic interests in Myanmar, has taken a softer line in pushing for stability and non-interference.



The state-run Global Times newspaper warned against Western countries backing anti-junta forces militarily.



"If armed clashes are indulged and political extremist action is encouraged, then the country will be plagued by endless battles and trouble," it said in an opinion piece.


Kylie Jenner confirms she is pregnant with second child

Kylie Jenner and her daughter Stormi Webster share a moment at the premiere for the documentary "Travis Scott: Look Mom I Can Fly" in Santa Monica, California, U.S. (Photo : REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni)

U.S. model and media personality Kylie Jenner confirmed her second pregnancy on Tuesday night via a montage shared on her Instagram https://bit.ly/3yYVOVW.



In the 90-second video, the 24-year-old entrepreneur said she is expecting a baby with her boyfriend, the rapper Travis Scott. The couple already has a 3-year-old daughter, Stormi Webster.



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Jenner is the founder of beauty line Kylie Cosmetics, which is majority-owned by cosmetics maker Coty Inc.



The video montage opens with a positive pregnancy test and then shows Jenner and her boyfriend taking their daughter to the doctor's office for the ultrasound. The rest of the video captures celebrations from Jenner's 24th birthday party in August and clips of Stormi kissing her mother's growing baby bump.



"Are you pregnant?" Kylie's mother, Kris, asks as she looks at sonogram photos in the video. "This is one of the happiest days of my life."



In August, multiple outlets had reported that Jenner was pregnant, but Tuesday's Instagram video marks the first public confirmation.



Jenner, the youngest sibling of the Kardashian clan, kept her first pregnancy private until a few days after Stormi's birth, when she shared a first picture on Instagram.



"Keeping Up with the Kardashians", the reality series which made the family a household name, marked its final episode in June.



The show launched the beauty and fashion empires Kylie Jenner and her half-sister Kim Kardashian. Jenner's social media presence now counts some 265 million Instagram followers.


Special forces members take position during an uprising that led to the toppling of president Alpha Conde in Kaloum neighbourhood of Conakry, Guinea (Photo : REUTERS/Saliou Samb)

A delegation of West African leaders was due in Guinea on Friday to assess the situation following a military coup that ousted President Alpha Conde and raised fears of a backslide towards military rule in the region.



An elite army unit led by Mamady Doumbouya, a former French legionnaire officer, snatched power on Sunday and promised a new start in the West African country, where many had grown weary of Conde's authoritarian rule.



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Leaders from the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) condemned the coup on Wednesday and called on the military to release Conde, who was arrested during the takeover.



They also suspended Guinea's membership in ECOWAS, the region's main political and economic group, but fell short of threatening sanctions.



ECOWAS president Jean-Claude Kassi Brou and Ghana's foreign affairs minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway, will lead the bloc's delegation in Guinea, but the bloc provided few details.



One high-ranking regional official said ECOWAS wanted the junta to appoint a "credible" civilian prime minister as soon as possible to help steer Guinea back towards constitutional order.



The bloc had been due in the Guinean capital, Conakry, on Thursday, but two sources in Guinea's junta said the delegation was delayed to Friday.



ECOWAS did not immediately respond to calls for comment.



It could face a challenge trying to influence events in Guinea after struggling to impose its will in Mali, also in West Africa, where two coups since August 2020 have left military leader Assimi Goita in charge despite repeated ECOWAS warnings.



Those two coups and another in Chad in April have renewed concerns about the return of military rule in a region that had made strides towards multi-party democracy since the 1990s.



Life in the Conakry has started to return to normal, with traffic and street hawkers clogging the streets.



The only roads still manned by military checkpoints were those leading towards the Kaloum peninsula, the capital's administrative centre and home to the presidential palace.



Fears that the power struggle could hinder Guinea's production of bauxite, a mineral used to make aluminium, have begun to ease. The country's largest foreign operators say they have continued to operate without interruption.


A security fence surrounds the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S. (Photo : REUTERS/Al Drago)

As four of his fellow Proud Boy leaders sat in jail this summer, charged with conspiracy in the violent Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, the group's chairman, Enrique Tarrio, sent out a private audio message to colleagues around the country.



In the July audio, a copy of which was reviewed by Reuters, Tarrio said that "we are trying to f---ing avoid" a situation in which the senior members facing charges would cooperate with prosecutors. The four, who are jailed without bond, have pleaded not guilty.



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Raising the possibility that one of the four leaders may have been cooperating with authorities, Tarrio told fellow Proud Boy leadership he didn't believe that the man was doing so - and said he had spoken about the matter directly with that leader's wife.



"The bigger problem with that is the guys that are in prison right now are holding on to hope that everybody is f---ing staying put because they didn't do anything wrong," Tarrio said. "The moment that they think one of the guys flipped, it throws everything off and it makes everybody turn on each other, and that's what we are trying to f---ing avoid."



Asked about the audio message, Tarrio told Reuters he was simply trying to stop members from speculating that anyone had decided to help prosecutors who are examining the deadly insurrection. "What I was trying to avoid is them turning against each other because of media stories," he said.



Reuters was unable to determine if Tarrio is a target in the federal investigations of the Capitol Hill riot. He has not been charged in the case. Tarrio was arrested two days before the insurrection took place on separate charges; this week, he began serving a 155-day sentence for burning a Black Lives Matter banner and possessing a banned high-capacity rifle magazine in Washington.



Three former prosecutors consulted by Reuters said Tarrio's audio message to the group and his call to the leader's spouse to discuss reports of cooperation by her husband could warrant a review into whether Tarrio was obstructing justice.



Under federal law, the crime of obstruction of justice can occur if someone "corruptly or by threats or force, or by any threatening letter or communication, influences, obstructs, or impedes, or endeavors to influence, obstruct, or impede, the due administration of justice." Attempting to prevent someone from testifying can be construed as witness tampering, a form of obstruction.



"This shows a real effort to protect the group and deter defectors," said Daniel Richman, a former federal prosecutor who teaches at Columbia Law School. Still, Richman emphasized that the audio on its own does not prove an effort to obstruct justice.



Bruce A. Green, a former federal prosecutor who teaches at Fordham Law School, said the message "would be a basis to start an investigation." He agreed with Richman that the audio alone would not prove obstruction.



Mary McCord, a professor at Georgetown University and former acting attorney general for National Security Affairs, said the tape "raises the specter of possible efforts to influence the charged individuals not to cooperate." But she added, "There's nothing on that tape that would allow you to get an indictment on obstruction."



Without more information, she said, it would be difficult to assess Tarrio's conversation with the fellow leader's wife. The discussion could have been "benign," she said, but added that "a reasonable person" could be intimidated if the leader of an organization spoke to them about a family member potentially cooperating with authorities.



Told of the comments by the former prosecutors and asked if his communications may have amounted to obstruction of justice, Tarrio said: "Absolutely not."



'FELONY TERRITORY'



The day Reuters asked Tarrio about the July audio message, Aug. 27, he sent another, shorter private message to Proud Boys leaders, complaining that the leaking of the first tape to Reuters put him in "felony territory." Reuters also obtained this second audio. Both recordings were shared on the condition that Reuters not identify sources.



"You know it's hard enough to fight a f---ing entire government...," Tarrio said in the Aug. 27 message, "to have to worry about dudes in here f---ing putting you in felony territory. Not just regular felony, like a serious felony."



Tarrio told Reuters the reference to a "serious felony" was simply a reminder to members that they should not fight among themselves. He said there was no actual felony.



Tarrio was pressing his colleagues not to turn on each other years after he himself had cooperated with federal authorities. As Reuters reported in January, a 2014 court transcript shows that Tarrio cooperated with the FBI after being charged with fraud in 2012, even going undercover to aid in numerous investigations. That was well before he became Proud Boys chairman in 2018.



The Proud Boys have been a key focus in the federal probe into efforts by supporters of former President Donald Trump to thwart the results of last year's election by raiding Congress on the day of the formal certification.



The four senior Proud Boys held on federal charges - Joseph Biggs, Ethan Nordean, Charles Donohoe and Zach Rehl - were videotaped leading a crowd toward the Capitol on Jan. 6. In court filings, the U.S. government said they helped lead the offensive. The men dispute the charges.



In the July recording, Tarrio tried to knock down possible speculation on social media that Rehl, president of the Philadelphia Proud Boys, was cooperating.



The rumor spread after a journalist tweeted that Zehl's lawyer sought a delay in a pending case hearing, and asked: "What are the 'developments' that require 'ongoing conversations' with the government?" The tweet did not claim Zehl was cooperating. But Tarrio incorrectly described the tweet as asserting that Zehl was "talking or cooperating with the feds."



Tarrio told his fellow Proud Boys there was no cooperation. "And if there is anybody that will hold fast, it's f---ing Zach." Tarrio said later in the recording that "it's fine to question things but I just want you guys to know the truth. I got off the phone with Zach's wife this morning."



Tarrio said he spoke to Rehl's wife about the social media rumors. Reuters could not reach her for comment.



Reached by Reuters, Rehl's new lawyer, Jonathan Alden Moseley, initially said he was unaware of the Tarrio messages and of his phone conversation with Rehl's wife. He called later to add that he had learned the call did indeed take place and said he discussed the matter with Rehl's wife.



"It was about the stories that he [Rehl] might flip," Moseley said of the call. Moseley declined to comment on behalf of Rehl's wife, saying he is not her lawyer. But he noted that she does not share her husband's "activism."



Rehl, he added, is not cooperating with the investigation.


Morocco's long-ruling Islamists have suffered a crushing defeat in parliamentary elections to liberal parties, according to provisional results announced early Thursday.

The Justice and Development Party (PJD), which headed the ruling coalition for a decade, saw its support collapse from 125 seats in the outgoing assembly to just 12, Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit said during a press briefing following Wednesday's polls.

It was far behind its main liberal rivals, the National Rally of Independents (RNI) and the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM), with 97 and 82, respectively, and the centre-right Istiqlal Party with 78 seats in the 395-seat assembly.

The RNI, which was a junior member of the governing coalition, is headed by billionaire businessman Aziz Akhannouch, described as close to the palace.

And the main opposition PAM was founded by the current royal adviser, Fouad Ali El Himma, in 2008.

The Istiqlal (Independence) party, the oldest in Morocco, made a remarkable comeback, adding 32 seats.

The magnitude of the Islamists' defeat was unexpected as, despite the absence of opinion polls that are banned near election time, the media and analysts had believed the PJD would still take first place.

Swept to power in the wake of the 2011 uprisings around the Middle East and North Africa, the PJD had hoped to secure a third term leading a ruling coalition.

King Mohammed VI will name a prime minister from the party that won the poll to govern the nation of 36 million for the next five years, succeeding Saad-Eddine El Othmani.

The final results should be known on Thursday.

Turnout was 50.35 percent, according to the interior minister, higher than the 43 percent at the previous legislative polls in 2016, but lower than the 53 percent during the 2015 local elections.

But changes to the voting system meant that it was the first time Morocco's 18 million voters cast ballots in both parliamentary and local elections on the same day, in an effort to boost turnout.

In 2011, the North African kingdom adopted a new constitution devolving many of the monarch's powers to parliament and the government.

However, regardless of who holds elected office, major decisions continue to come from initiatives of King Mohammed VI.

The interior minister said voting took place "under normal circumstances" apart from some isolated incidents.

The short, largely lacklustre election campaign, with no big gatherings due to the coronavirus, had already been marred by accusations of vote buying.

The PJD and the RNI also exchanged heated barbs in the final days ahead of the vote.

Former prime minister and PJD leader Abdelilah Benkirane attacked the RNI boss, billionaire businessman and Agriculture Minister Akhannouch, in a fiery Facebook video on Sunday.

"The head of government must be a political personality with integrity who is above suspicion," he said.

Akhannouch retorted in an interview on Monday that the attacks were "an admission of failure" by his opponents.

Following the previous elections in 2016, the RNI leader secured critical ministerial jobs for his party, including the economy and finance and industry portfolios.

For the first time since the first elections were held in Morocco in 1960, parties' shares of seats will be calculated based on registered voters, rather than those who actually cast their ballots.

Whatever the result, political parties are expected to adopt a charter for a "new model of development" with a "new generation of reforms and projects" in the coming years, the king announced recently.

All parties are expected to sign up, regardless of who wins the election.

The plan's major aims include reducing the country's wealth gap and doubling per-capita economic output by 2035.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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The energy ministers of Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan agreed on Wednesday on a roadmap to supply Lebanon with Egyptian natural gas to generate electricity amid the ongoing Lebanese energy crisis.

The announcement came during a joint press conference in Jordan in which they agreed to revive the Arab Gas Pipeline to transport Egyptian gas to Jordan, where it will be used to produce additional electricity for the network linking Jordan with Lebanon via Syria.

Egyptian Petroleum Minister Tarek El-Molla stressed that Cairo hopes to export natural gas to Lebanon as soon as possible.

Egypt is working to speed up coordination for the delivery of Egyptian natural gas to Lebanon through Jordan and Syria, given Egypts keenness to ease the burdens of the Lebanese people and to contribute to Lebanon's support and stability, El-Molla said.

As per the agreement, Egyptian gas will be transported via Jordan and Syria to northern Lebanon to activate gas-operated power plants that have been dysfunctional for 11 years.

Lebanons energy crisis has significantly worsened when its two main power plants, which had been generating 40 percent of the countrys energy, were shut down in July due to fuel shortages.

A political vacuum has persisted in Lebanon for a year now, with the country scraping by without a government since Hassan Diab resigned as premier in August of last year.

Lebanons caretaker Energy Minister Raymond Ghajar expressed his gratitude to Egypt, Jordan, and Syria for the initiative they took to revive the quadripartite agreement to transport Egyptian gas to Lebanon through Jordan and Syria.

Lebanon hopes it will benefit in the nearest time possible from the Egyptian gas to feed the 450 megawatt Deir Ammar power plant, which provides more than four hours of electricity daily for the Lebanese people, Ghajar said.

The meeting comes after Damascus welcomed Lebanons plea to extend gas and electricity pipelines from Egypt and Jordan through Syrian lands to Lebanon.

In a statement in August, US Ambassador to Lebanon Dorothy Shea was cited as affirming ongoing negotiations with the World Bank to provide the funding required to purchase Egyptian gas, develop the electric transport lines, and fix gas pipes.

The Arab ministers also agreed to discuss the status of the Syrian infrastructure for electricity transmission.

The gas pipeline, which passes from Egypt through Jordan to Syria, from Homs in the centre of the country, has been repeatedly bombed by terrorists and armed groups. The section of the pipeline in Syria must now be expanded and maintained to function again.

Syrian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Bassam Tohme said the Arab gas pipeline is one of the most important joint Arab cooperation projects."

Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt signed the project's memorandum of understanding in 2000. Jordan joined in 2001, Tohme noted.

The Arab gas pipeline was implemented in three phases, the first from Arish to Aqaba with a capacity of 10 billion m3 per year, and the supply of natural gas from Egypt to Jordan began under this phase in July 2003.

The second phase, from Aqaba to the Rehab area in the north of Jordan, saw gas delivered to power plants in the north of the kingdom in February 2006. The pipeline was then extended from Rehab to the Jordanian-Syrian border in March of 2008.

The southern part of the third phase of the pipeline in Syrian territory, extending from the Jordanian-Syrian border to the city of Homs, was completed in July 2008. Egyptian natural gas began to be exported to Lebanon via Jordan in November 2009 and stopped in 2011.

Jordan's Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Hala Zawati said that Wednesdays meeting was based on the belief that cooperation between the countries sharing the gas pipeline is an effective and influential step in supporting strategic projects and promoting common interests, which will positively reflect on economic and social development in these countries.

Egypts natural-gas production rose to 7.2 billion cubic feet per day, up from 6.8 billion during fiscal year 2018-19 and 3.8 billion cubic feet in 2012, thanks to discoveries over the last three years, mainly from the giant Zohr Field in the Mediterranean Sea that was discovered in 2015 and is believed to be the largest-ever gas discovery in Egypt and the Mediterranean.



Zohrs daily production  estimated at 30 trillion cubic feet  exceeded three billion cubic feet in 2020, making up 40 percent of Egypts total gas output, according to previous statements by El-Molla.

Egypt plans to use its location on Europes doorstep to become a major supplier of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the continent, which is transitioning away from other fossil fuels.

Egypt has the infrastructure for the transport and handling of natural gas, with a main network of 7,000km of pipelines, as well as a distribution network of 31,000km, and 29 gas-treatment plants in addition to two LNG facilities.

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Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry held separate talks on Wednesday with Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as well as with South Sudan's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Beatrice Wani-Noah.

Shoukry's meeting with Nandi-Ndaitwah, who is currently visiting Cairo, tackled means of promoting bilateral cooperation at all levels as well as a host of issues of mutual concern, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ahmed Hafez said.

The meeting falls within the framework of promoting cooperation with all African countries.

During the meeting with Wani-Noah, Sameh Shoukry asserted Egypts support of the implementation of the peace agreement in South Sudan.

Shoukry also pointed out that Egypt will continue to support South Sudan against obstacles facing the country including the COVID-19 pandemic and the floods, noting that Egypt is committed to rehabilitating South Sudanese cadres in all domains.

Meanwhile, Wani-Noah hailed Egypts role in supporting South Sudan in all fields.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Ahmed Hafez also said the meeting tackled boosting bilateral relations and regional and international issues of mutual concern.

The two sides underlined the importance of maintaining current efforts to achieve strategic partnership between the two brotherly countries to serve mutual interests.

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Egypt's High Administrative Court upheld on Wednesday a previous lower administrative court verdict rejecting the parole of prisoners who were found guilty and sentenced to prison in cases related to terrorism and joining the terrorist-designated Muslim Brotherhood.

The court reasoned that parole is granted to convicts who display good behaviour, which is something lacking in members of the Brotherhood since they used violence as a means to gain power and exploited religion for nefarious purposes.

The court added that the possibility of rehabilitation and reform does not apply in the case of groups such as the Brotherhood.

The court's verdict is final verdict and cannot be appealed.

The case dates back to 2015 when a number of Brotherhood members who had been sentenced to prison petitioned for parole after serving two-thirds of their prison term, per Egyptian law, but were rejected by the Ministry of Interior.

The ministry's decision was then challenged in two separate lawsuits in front of an administrative court, which upheld the decision.

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Under-Secretary General of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Office Vladimir Voronkov lauded on Wednesday the Egyptian experiment in fighting terrorism and extremism.

During a meeting with Egyptian Awqaf Minister Mohamed Mokhtar Gomaa, the UN official underlined the importance of the Egyptian role in fighting terrorism.

Gomaa said the Egyptian state is serious in its anti-terror efforts and is ready to share its pioneering experiment in this domain with international organizations concerned with fighting terrorism.

The anti-terror Egyptian experiment is based on three dimensions; a humanitarian dimension, national interest and a religious dimension, he added.

Gomaa said previous experiments proved that military and security confrontation is not enough to eradicate terrorism but that the world needs a rational discourse.

He expounded the ministry's efforts to fight terrorism and extremism through training and rehabilitating imams and scholars to be able to protect society from extremist doctrine, renewing religious discourse and empowering women to be able to practice religious discourse.

The Awqaf minister is currently visiting Vienna to attend a celebration marking Egypt's handover of a replica statue of King Tutankhamun to the UN building in the Austrian capital.

The statue will be placed at the entrance of the building.

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Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry urged international and regional parties on Thursday to fulfil their role in providing the proper climate for pushing forward the Israeli-Palestinian peace process during the coming period.

As he held consultations in Cairo with his Palestinian and Jordanian counterparts  Riyad Al-Maliki and Ayman Al-Safadi, respectively  Shoukry said that promoting the peace path should achieve the desired security and stability in the region, a statement by the Egyptian foreign ministry read.

Shoukry affirmed Egypts unwavering stance to support the Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people.

The ministers discussed the latest developments of the Palestinian cause and the efforts made during the past period to work on reengaging with the Israeli-Palestinian peace process and the launch of serious and constructive negotiations, the statement read.

The negotiations, Shoukry said, should aim to reach a comprehensive and fair settlement on the basis of the two-state solution and ensure the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the borders of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The Jordanian and Palestinian top diplomats expressed their appreciation for Egypts initiative to reconstruct the Gaza Strip and provide developmental aid to Palestinian territories, according to the statement.

They also hailed Egypts continuous efforts to achieve Palestinian reconciliation.

Cairo has recently hosted several rounds of talks that included rivaling Palestinian factions  the latest of which was in February  in a bid to achieve intra-Palestinian reconciliation and end political division between Fatah and Hamas.

Thursdays three-way meeting witnessed discussions on the most prominent regional and international developments and stances towards a number of Arab issues.

The ministers also stressed the enhancement of joint Arab cooperation frameworks and agreed to continue their trilateral consultation in a way that achieves the interests of the three countries and their peoples.

The meeting comes ahead of the 156th ordinary ministerial session of the Arab League Council that is scheduled later on Thursday in Cairo.

The Egyptian-Palestinian-Jordanian consultation also comes only a week after a trilateral summit between the leaders of the three countries that was held in Cairo to discuss the revival of Israeli-Palestinian peace talks.

Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, Jordanian King Abdullah II, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and delegations from the three countries took part in the summit.

During the summit, Egypt and Jordan stressed their support to the Palestinian state and Abbas in the face of any unilateral movements that may undermine the Palestinian right to have an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The summit followed a meeting between Abbas and Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz.

After the trilateral meeting, El-Sisi had a phone call with his Israeli counterpart, Isaac Herzog, during which they discussed efforts to revive the peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis, according to the Egyptian presidency.

In May, Egypt sponsored a ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian factions to end an 11-day episode of Israeli military aggression on the Gaza Strip, during which more than 250 Palestinians, including 66 children were killed.

Egypt then sent General Intelligence Service Chief Abbas Kamel to visit Tel Aviv and Ramallah  in late May and again in August  to push forward the Palestinian-Israeli peace process and safeguard the Egyptian-sponsored ceasefire in Gaza.

During his visit in August, Kamel met with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and his national security advisor in Tel Aviv and with President Abbas in Ramallah.

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Ethiopian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Dina Mufti claimed on Thursday that Addis Ababa was able to "withstand pressure imposed by Egypt and Sudan" to internationalise the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) dispute.

We were able to withstand all the pressures to take the GERD file to the UN Security Council and to further internationalise and securitise it, Mufti said in a biweekly press briefing, citing an accusation that Egypt has refuted.

Ethiopia has frequently claimed that the two downstream countries attempt to exert unnecessary pressure on Addis Ababa in the GERD dispute through different means, including attempts to internationalise and politicise the GERD file, as its Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen said earlier in May.

Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry had responded to such claims in May that If (the GERD case) was internationalised, then it has been basically done with the consent of Ethiopia and the involvement of the African Union (AU).

In various statements, Shoukry stressed that Ethiopia also agreed and participated willingly in the GERD negotiations in Washington from November 2019 to February 2020, in which the US and the World Bank were entrusted to prepare a draft agreement and Ethiopia skipped the signing meeting citing "domestic reasons."

Mufti reiterated in the biweekly briefing the confidence in the ability of the AU to lead the negotiation over the GERD guided by the principle of African solutions to African problems."

Egypt and Sudan have reiterated on many occasions their commitment to the AU-sponsored talks to resolve the GERD crisis among the three countries.

However, the last round of AU-sponsored talks held in chair capital Kinshasa in April to revive the negotiations, which have stalled since January, failed to stir stagnant waters, with both Egypt and Sudan blaming Ethiopia for its intransigence.

Given the failed April session, the two downstream countries proposed the formation of quartet mediation committee led by the AU and including the European Union, the United States and the United Nations. Ethiopia rejected the proposal, accusing both countries of obstructing the AU-sponsored talks.

In early July, the UN Security Council held a session on GERD at the request of Egypt and Sudan in an attempt to settle the dispute.

In an interview with Bloomberg TV on Wednesday, Egypts top diplomat said the country has been committed over the past 10 years to reach a peaceful solution to the issue in accordance with international law, and we will continue adopting such an approach till the political will of Ethiopia to sign a deal is demonstrated."

Egypt and Sudan have been pushing for signing a comprehensive and legally binding agreement with Ethiopia over the GERD, while Addis Ababa refuses to sign such a deal, saying it seeks mere guidelines that can be modified at any time at its discretion.

Shoukry told Bloomberg that Egypt is keen to avoid any military conflict regarding the issue but all options are always open.

Egypt fears that the unilateral filling and operation of the massive hydropower project will significantly diminish its water supply.

Egypt, which is considered one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, receives around 60 bcm annually, mainly from the Nile. However, its needs stand at around 114 bcm, placing the 102-million-citizen country well below the international threshold for water scarcity, at 560 cubic metres per person annually.

Meanwhile, Sudan maintains that without a legally binding agreement the GERD will put the operation of its Roseires Dam and the lives of millions of Sudanese at "a very high risk."

The Roseires Dam is located only 15km away from the GERD and has a reservoir that is 12 times smaller than the storage capacity of the GERD's 74 billion cubic metre (bcm) reservoir.

However, the last round of AU-sponsored talks held in chair capital Kinshasa in April to revive the negotiations, which have stalled since January, failed to stir stagnant waters, with both Egypt and Sudan blaming Ethiopia for its intransigence.

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On the 69th anniversary of National Farmers Day in Egypt, which falls on 9 September, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi pledged support to Egyptian farmers to provide them a decent life.

I extend my greetings to the Egyptian farmer on his day, on which he obtained his independence, freedom, pride and dignity, El-Sisi wrote on his official Facebook page on Thursday.

National Farmers' Day has been celebrated since the issuance of the Agrarian Reform Law in 1952. The law redistributed agricultural lands nationwide to poor farmers in a bid to achieve social justice, a goal that was set by the 23 July Revolution 1952 that abolished the monarchy.

The president added that he is fully keen to support farmers and harness all required capabilities to secure a decent life for them.

Egypt's pyramids, Suez Canal and Aswan High Dam "are all indebted to the effort, the sweat and the genius of millions of farmers over the ages, El-Sisi said.

The state had been ramping up its efforts since 2020 to improve the standards of living, infrastructure, and services after El-Sisi launched the countryside-focused Decent Life Initiative.

The initiative targets 58 percent of Egypts 102 million-person population who live in 4,658 villages across the country, with an estimated budget of EGP 700 billion (around $44.6 billion).

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Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry has reiterated Egypts commitment to stand by all Arab countries to endure the current exceptional circumstances, voicing Cairo's welcome of the recent reconciliations between Arabs.

"The Arab region continues to face political challenges and insurmountable issues that obstruct achieving our development goals and legitimate aspirations," Shoukry told the 156th ordinary ministerial session of the Arab League Council that was held in Cairo on Thursday.

"The foreign interventions and foreign ambitions are still working relentlessly to seize our resources, distract us from our priorities, and plunge us into conflicts that only serve their interests," he appended.

The "flagrant" interventions, Shoukry added, resulted in depletion and exhaustion of Arab resources as well as led to polarisations and rivalries between Arabs, a matter that he said should come to an end.

Minister Shoukry said Cairo welcomes the recent Arab reconciliations, hoping these are completed based on mutual respect for national sovereignty.

The top diplomat voiced Egypt's "relentless" efforts to offer all means of support to resolve the decades-running Palestinian-Israeli conflict through reaching a fair, enduring and comprehensive settlement that restores to the Palestinians legitimate rights and establishes an independent Palestinian state on the borders of 4 June, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

The minister stressed the importance of supporting efforts to restore security and stability to Libya and help in holding Libyan elections on time on 24 December to strengthen the state institutions and fulfill the aspirations of the Libyan people.

He urged for an end to the humanitarian suffering in Syria and Yemen by pushing for a settlement to their internal conflicts that protects their territorial integrity and sovereignty.

He renewed rejection of repeated Houthi attempts to attack Saudi territories, voicing support for all measures taken by the kingdom to defend its national security and the safety of its people.

He also condemned any attempts to threaten the freedom of navigation in the Red Sea, pointing out ongoing efforts with regional and international partners to confront threats to global shipping routes.

GERD agreement

Shoukry also reiterated Egypt's stance on the decade-old issue caused by the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), stressing the importance of reaching a legally binding agreement.

Shoukry called for an agreement that preserves Addis Ababa's development goals, but without harming Cairo and Khartoum's water rights.

"Adopting the rules for filling and operating the dam as per a legally binding agreement between the parties involved will prevent the region from sliding into a more complex scene with undesirable consequences," the Egyptian minister stressed.

Ethiopia, an upstream country, has pinned hopes of development and power generation on the multi-billion dollar hydropower project, while Egypt, a downstream country, fears an impact on its water supply, and Sudan, the other downstream country, is concerned about regulating flows to its dams, which are located near to the GERD.

The two downstream countries have been negotiating with Ethiopia for ten years to reach a comprehensive and legally binding agreement on the filling and operation of the GERD, but to no avail, as the upstream country seeks mere guidelines that can be modified any time at its discretion.

Ethiopia has completed the first and second filling of its controversial dam in 2020 and 2021 despite a lack of agreement with Cairo and Khartoum.

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A Cairo court sentenced on Thursday a sacked judge and two others to 15 years in prison each for kidnapping and raping a woman at a private villa on the country's North Coast.

The woman, who was working at a real estate financing office owned by the second defendant, himself a friend of the former judge, was tricked into travelling to the North Coast under the pretext of organising a real estate conference, according to the prosecution.

The real estate office's owner persuaded the woman to stay with him at a villa owned by the Judge's second friend, the third defendant in the case, due to the lack of vacant rooms in the North Coast's hotels.

The judge and the first defendant assaulted and raped the woman inside the room, as per the investigation.

The police intervened the following day after being called by a neighbour who saw the woman trying to flee while two men  the judge and his first friend  chased her.

In order to cover up the incident, the sacked judge tried to offer the victim a large sum of money and marry her using an informal or unregistered marriage certificate  which is locally known as an urfi (customary) marriage  that predated the incident

Egypt has been cracking down on sex crimes, encouraging victims of sexual assaults to come forward.

Last year, a bill proposed by the justice ministry to keep the identity of sex crime victims confidential was approved.

The government has recently passed laws stiffening jail sentences and fines for sexual offenders.

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More than 20,000 people took part in Sundays demonstration against the governments coronavirus rules in the Netherlands, city officials said.

The organizers had said they expected 50,000 people to take part in the protest, according to Dutch News.

The demonstrators ranged from people claiming the government is creating medical apartheid by introducing coronavirus passes for events, to anti-vaxxers, conspiracy theorists, and extreme right-wing groups.

On Friday, Dutch Health Minister Hugo de Jonge confirmed the government is considering making the use of QR codes showing the user is either vaccinated, or has tested negative, compulsory for visiting museums and cafes.

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Local officials in Ethiopia allege that Tigray forces have killed more than 120 civilians in recent days following battlefield losses, in what would be one of the deadliest massacres of the country's 10-month war.

Sewunet Wubalem, administrator for the Dabat woreda, or district, in the Amhara region told The Associated Press on Wednesday that 123 bodies had been recovered and more were expected to be found.

``The attack on Sept. 4 was the most severe one, especially in Chenna Teklehaymanot village,'' the administrator said, adding the attack began on Aug. 27 after Ethiopian forces blocked an attempt by Tigray fighters to seize the city of Gondar.

Local residents blamed the Tigray forces for looting, shelling and killing civilians, Sewunet said. ``Children, mothers and even religious elders were also targeted,'' he said.

The death toll could be as high as 200, Bekele Yitbarek, head of the North Gondar Health Bureau, said. ``As far as I know, some (Tigray) fighters are still hiding in between farms and continue their killings,'' he said.

Spokesman for the Tigray forces Getachew Reda did not immediately respond to questions. He has told the AP that Tigray forces aren't targeting civilians as they fight in Ethiopia's Amhara and Afar regions, but multiple witnesses in recent days have alleged otherwise.

The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region has spread into other areas in recent weeks, displacing hundreds of thousands of people. The Tigray forces say they are trying to pressure the government to lift the near-complete blockade on food aid and other essential supplies to their region as some 400,000 people there face famine conditions.

The United Nations, United States and others are pressing for an immediate cease-fire and a path to talks to end a war that has killed thousands of people in Africa's second-most populous country.

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At least 125 villagers were massacred in Ethiopia's Amhara region earlier this month, doctors and local officials told AFP Wednesday, but rebels from neighbouring Tigray rejected claims they were responsible.

It was the latest reported mass killing in the 10-month conflict in northern Ethiopia between government forces and Tigray rebels that has claimed the lives of thousands and triggered a major humanitarian crisis.

"There were 125 dead in Chenna village... I saw the mass grave myself," Mulugeta Melesa, head of the hospital in nearby Dabat town, told AFP.

He said residents were "still searching for dead bodies around the area and counting is still going on".

The toll could not be independently verified and AFP was not able to confirm whether those killed were civilians or combatants.

A spokesman for the rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) denied its forces were to blame.

"We categorically reject claims of our forces' involvement in the killing of civilians," Getachew Reda said on Twitter, calling for an independent investigation into "all atrocities".

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission -- a state-affiliated but independent body -- said it was "alarmed" by the reports and that law enforcement was investigating to confirm the number and identities of the victims.

Northern Ethiopia has been wracked by conflict since November when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops into Tigray to topple the TPLF, a move he said was in response to attacks on army camps.

Though the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize winner vowed a swift victory, fighting has dragged on, with myriad reports of massacres and other rights abuses.

In a stunning turnaround in the conflict in June, the TPLF retook Tigray's capital Mekele and federal forces largely withdrew.

Since then the TPLF has launched offensives into neighbouring Amhara and Afar, displacing hundreds of thousands of people and triggering allegations of summary executions and indiscriminate shelling.

The TPLF has denied the charges, insisting it is merely trying to break what it describes as a humanitarian blockade on Tigray and prevent pro-government forces from regrouping.

Gunshot wounds



Chenna residents reported that the TPLF controlled the village in late August before fighting against pro-government troops broke out in early September, Sewunet Wubalem, administrator of Dabat district, told AFP.

The rebels then shot dead civilians over multiple days in early September before retreating, he said.

Chenna is located roughly 25 kilometres (15 miles) northwest of Dabat.

Some of the wounded were taken to the university hospital in Gondar, a city to the southwest of Dabat.

"The dead bodies are not coming here but there are some wounded civilians here," said hospital vice president Ashenafi Tazebew.

"We have received close to 35, 36 civilians but I am not sure they are all from the Chenna massacre. Most of them have gun wounds.

"Some of them, their families are already dead and they are asking to go to the funerals" even though they need treatment, he added.

'Beyond reckoning'



The war has caused immense human suffering in Tigray and beyond, with UN officials warning that 400,000 people face famine-like conditions.

Tigrayan leaders said Monday that 150 people died of starvation in August and that one million "are at risk of fatal famine if they are prohibited from receiving life-saving aid within the next few days".

Those figures could not be independently verified.

The TPLF has accused Abiy's government of imposing an aid blockade, and the UN, the African Union and world powers like the United States have repeatedly called for expanded humanitarian access.

On Monday, Ethiopia's peace minister Muferiat Kamil reiterated the government's position that the rebels were to blame for obstructing aid.

"It's TPLF who is choking the checkpoints, the humanitarian corridor, it's not us," she said.

The World Food Programme on Tuesday hailed the arrival of more than 100 trucks carrying food and other aid into Tigray, the first such convoy to arrive in two weeks.

"Although we have not yet been able to independently verify hunger-related deaths, we have received unconfirmed reports of deaths in displacement sites and we are gravely concerned regarding the life-threatening situation faced by millions of people in Tigray and neighbouring regions," Saviano Abreu, a spokesman for the UN humanitarian coordination office, told AFP Wednesday.

"It is extremely worrying that some supplies have not been able to enter at all, including fuel, without which we are unable to continue our operations."

He called for unimpeded access and warned that "the consequences of inaction are beyond reckoning".

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The trial of Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman, a militia leader accused of atrocities in Sudan's Darfur conflict, will start next April, the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced on Wednesday.

Abd-Al-Rahman, 70, an ally of deposed Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir, was a senior commander of the Janjaweed militia -- a notorious armed group created by the government.

He will be the first suspect to be tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity over the bloody conflict.

The court's first trial chamber, comprising three judges, "scheduled the opening of the trial... for 5 April 2022,' the ICC said in a statement.

The United Nations says 300,000 people were killed and 2.5 million people were displaced in the 2003-4 Darfur conflict.

Fighting broke out when black African rebels, complaining of systematic discrimination, took up arms against Bashir's Arab-dominated regime.

Khartoum responded by unleashing the Janjaweed, a force drawn from among the region's nomadic tribes.

In April 2007, the Hague-based court issued an arrest warrant for Abd-Al-Rahman, also known by the nom du guerre of Ali Kushayb.

He fled to the Central African Republic (CAR) in February 2020 when the new Sudanese government announced its intention to cooperate with the ICC investigation.

Four months later, he surrendered voluntarily.

In May this year, the ICC staged hearings to assess whether there was enough evidence for a full trial.

Prosecutors detailing 31 charges against Abd-Al-Rahman told the court that in August 2003 he, with the support of government forces, was responsible for brutal attacks on villages in the Wadi Salih area.

The men carried out murder, rape and destroyed homes, and many people who fled were later hunted down and killed in cold blood, they said.

Abd-Al-Rahman personally killed up to three male detainees with a "stick or axe-like object", according to the charge sheet.

Bashir, who ruled Sudan with an iron fist for three decades, was deposed in April 2019 following months of protests.

He has been wanted by the ICC for more than a decade on accusations of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

In August, Sudan and the ICC signed a cooperation deal, an important step towards any trial of the former leader.

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Germany's foreign minister arrived in Libya on Thursday to reopen the country's embassy in Tripoli.

``Today, we want to show with the reopening that Germany is and will remain a committed partner of Libya,'' Heiko Maas said upon his arrival in Tripoli. ``We want to have a voice in the Libyan capital again.''

German diplomats left Libya in 2014 due to the country's instability and spiraling violence and worked from neighboring Tunisia.

In October, a cease-fire agreement between Libya's warring parties including a demand that all foreign fighters and mercenaries leave Libya within 90 days led to a deal on the elections in December and the transitional government that took office in February.

Germany has tried to act as an intermediary between warring parties in Libya in the past.

In June, Germany and the United Nations hosted a Libya conference in Berlin on the future of the crisis-ridden country. At the conference, Germany vowed to keep up pressure until all foreign forces have been withdrawn from Libya.

On Thursday, Maas praised the country's efforts to reach more stability over the past two years.

``Today there's a national unity government, the oil blockade has been ended, and the weapons have mostly been silenced,`` Maas said, according to a statement from the German Foreign Ministry.

He added that ``Libya needs continued international engagement to achieve progress for all people in Libya.''

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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Qatar's foreign minister met his Iranian counterpart in Tehran on Thursday to discuss developments in Afghanistan, the Qatari diplomat and Iranian media said.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani held "talks on regional and international issues" with Iran's Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, reported Iran's ISNA news agency.

Sheikh Mohammed, who this week met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Doha, tweeted that he and Iran's foreign minister met "to discuss the developments in Afghanistan".

"The State of Qatar believes in the effectiveness of having a unified vision to ensure a comprehensive solution for Afghanistan," he added.

The two men also discussed improving trade relations, including by speeding up visa issuance for business travellers, Iran's official IRNA news agency reported.

Qatar is close to the US and hosts Washington's largest military base in the region, but it also enjoys strong ties with Tehran, with which it shares the world's largest gas field.

Iran, worried about the Taliban's return to power, on Monday "strongly" condemned its assault on Afghanistan's Panjshir Valley, which had been the last stronghold of resistance.

Iran had until now refrained from criticising the Taliban since the Sunni group seized Kabul on August 15.

Qatar has long acted as a mediator on Afghanistan, hosting the Taliban's talks with the United States under former president Donald Trump, and then with the now deposed Afghan government of president Ashraf Ghani.

Iran, which shares a 900-kilometre (550 mile) border with Afghanistan, did not recognise the Taliban during their 1996 to 2001 stint in power.

Already hosting nearly 3.5 million Afghans, and fearing a new refugee influx, Tehran has however sought to reach a rapprochement with the Taliban since their lightning seizure of Kabul amid the US withdrawal last month.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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Here are some milestones in the more than two-decade reign of King Mohammed VI.

1999: Breaks with father

On July 23, 1999, Mohammed ascends the throne at age 35 on the death of his father Hassan II, who kept a tight grip on power for 38 years.

He says wants to "lighten the burden of poverty" afflicting his subjects and promote "a new conception of authority".

He breaks with his father by allowing the return from exile of historic opposition leader Abraham Serfaty.

He also sacks all-powerful interior minister Driss Basri, who symbolised the repression of his father's reign.

Mohammed travels to the traditionally restive Berber Rif region in the north, which his father never visited, and opens the way for an amnesty for political prisoners.

The 2002 parliamentary elections are seen as a key step towards democracy, following rigged votes under the previous regime.

But his declared reforms preserve the monarch's wide powers and firm grip on strategic sectors.

2003: Casablanca attacks

On May 16, 2003, five suicide attacks kill 33 people, mostly Moroccans, and wound scores more in the economic capital of Casablanca.

Parliament adopts an anti-terror law which considerably strengthens judicial and police powers.

Another bomb attack on a Marrakesh cafe in April 28, 2011, leaves 17 dead, including foreign tourists.

In late 2018, an Islamic State-linked group murders two Scandinavian women hikers in the High Atlas mountains.

2011: Protests and reform

The Arab Spring sees tens of thousands of people march for reform in February 2011 with human rights groups also calling for further change.

In a July 1 referendum, Moroccans massively back what Mohammed describes as a "comprehensive constitutional reform".

It devolves many of his powers to the prime minister and parliament, while preserving his political and religious pre-eminence.

Islamist victory

On November 25, the PJD sweeps to victory in legislative elections, after decades in opposition.

But after another Islamist win in 2016, a new coalition government fills the most strategic ministerial posts with trusted men from the palace, weakening the political parties.

On Wednesday, the PJD suffers a crushing defeat in parliamentary polls to liberal parties, with its support collapsing from 125 seats to just 12.

2016: Social unrest

The Al-Hirak al-Shaabi ("Popular Movement") emerges in the Rif region amid anger over the death of a fishmonger crushed by a garbage truck as he tried to recover swordfish seized by police.

It sparks protests to demand development in the long-marginalised Berber region, which were also at the heart of the 2011 protests.

Hundreds of people are arrested and sentenced, with Hirak figurehead Nasser Zefzafi given 20 years for "plotting to undermine the security of the state".

Similar unrest rocks the mining town of Jerada in the northeast in 2017-2018.

2017: Rejoins African Union

Morocco rejoins the African Union, which it had left in 1984 in protest at the admission of the Sahrawi Democratic Arab Republic of the disputed Western Sahara that Morocco annexed in 1975.

- 2020: Normalisation with Israel -

Morocco normalises ties with Israel on December 10, 2020 in a diplomatic quid pro quo that sees Donald Trump back Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara.

2021: Algeria stand-off

On August 24, Algeria announces it is severing ties due to Rabat's "hostile actions".

Relations between the neighbours have been tense for decades due to Algeria's support for the Polisario which seeks independence in Western Sahara. Morocco, which controls around 80 percent of the desert territory, has offered autonomy.

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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday the al-Qaeda extremist group that used Afghanistan as a staging base to attack United States 20 years ago may attempt to regenerate there following an American withdrawal that has left the Taliban in power.

Austin spoke to a small group of reporters in Kuwait City at the conclusion of a four-day tour of Persian Gulf states. He said the United States is prepared to prevent an al-Qaeda comeback in Afghanistan that would threaten the United States.

``The whole community is kind of watching to see what happens and whether or not al-Qaeda has the ability to regenerate in Afghanistan,'' he said. ``The nature of al-Qaeda and (the Islamic State group) is they will always attempt to find space to grow and regenerate, whether it's there, whether it's in Somalia, or whether it's in any other ungoverned space. I think that's the nature of the organization.''

The Taliban had provided al-Qaeda with sanctuary while it ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. The U.S. invaded and overthrew the Taliban after it refused to turn over al-Qaeda leaders following the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the United States. During the course of the 20-year U.S. war, al-Qaeda was vastly diminished, but questions have arisen about its future prospects with the Taliban back in Kabul.

``We put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that to happen,`` Austin said, referring to the possibility of al-Qaeda using Afghanistan as a staging base in the future.

In a February 2020 agreement with the Trump administration, Taliban leaders pledged not to support al-Qaeda or other extremist groups that would threaten the United States. But U.S. officials believe the Taliban maintain ties to al-Qaeda, and many nations, including Gulf Arab states, are concerned that the Taliban's return to power could open the door to a resurgence of al-Qaeda influence.

Austin has asserted that the U.S. military is capable of containing al-Qaeda or any other extremist threat to the United States emanating from Afghanistan by using surveillance and strike aircraft based elsewhere, including in the Persian Gulf. He also has acknowledged that it will be more difficult without U.S. troops and intelligence teams based in Afghanistan.

Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared together in Qatar on Tuesday in a show of U.S. gratitude for that Gulf state's help with the transit of tens of thousands of Afghans and others evacuated from Kabul. Blinken also visited an evacuee transit site in Germany, and Austin visited Bahrain and Kuwait.

Together, the Austin and Blinken trips were meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Biden's decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he _ like the Trump administration before him _ has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia.

Austin, a retired Army general, has a deep network of contacts in the Gulf region based in part on his years commanding U.S. and coalition troops in Iraq and later as head of U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East. This week's trip, however, was his first to the Gulf since taking office in January.

Austin had been scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on Thursday as the final stop on his Gulf tour. But on Wednesday evening his spokesman, John Kirby, announced that the visit had been dropped due to ``scheduling issues.'' Kirby offered no further explanation but said Austin looked forward to rescheduling.

Austin indicated that his visit was postponed at the Saudis' request. ``The Saudis have some scheduling issues; I can't speak to exactly what they were,'' he said.

The Saudi stop notably was to happen two days before the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States that killed nearly 3,000 people.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online.

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) announced Egypt as its 32nd member state, AFC said on Thursday.

With the increasing importance of public-private partnerships in advancing the African continent, and Egypt in particular, we are pleased to accede to the membership of a renowned and trusted pan-African institution like Africa Finance Corporation, said Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.

Madbouly added that the government is already in discussions with AFC on pipeline projects, some of which include supporting COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing, working closely with the Ministry of Transportation to fund the high speed train, the Cairo monorail projects, as well as establishing a collaboration with the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (SFE) to fund renewable projects. "We are looking forward to implementing these projects in line with the countrys Vision 2030," he added.

AFC has already invested over $100 million in infrastructure projects in Egypt, including the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation and Carbon Holdings, a petrochemicals conglomerate.

The corporation has also identified a further $600 million worth of projects across renewables, natural gas, as well as the transport and logistics sectors, expecting to invest over $1 billion in Egypt in total.

Egypts accession expands AFCs footprint in North Africa, after Morocco had joined in June 2021.

As a member, Egypt will enjoy benefits including increased investment allocation, preferred access to AFCs structuring and lending solutions, reduced debt costs for projects, and access to advisory and project development services.

In July, AFC President and CEO Samaila Zubairu and a delegation of senior AFC executives visited Egypt to meet with Prime Minister Madbouly and Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait, who inked the instrument of adherence to AFC membership. They also met with Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala El-Said.

We had several meetings with key government stakeholders in Cairo and their urgency in driving the next phase of development is consistent with AFCs support for resilient and sustainable infrastructure that will benefit not only Egypt but the entire continent, Zubairu stated.

I look forward to working with our partners to strengthen manufacturing on the continent, in particular the production of Covid-19 vaccines, he added.

AFC was established in 2007 with the aim of fostering private sector-led infrastructure investment across Africa.

It is the second highest investment multilateral financial institution in Africa, having an approach that combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development and risk capital to address Africas infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

AFC invests in high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications.

The corporation has invested over $8.7 billion in projects in 35 countries across Africa since its inception.

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Representatives of various international financial institutions (IFIs) hailed Egypts efforts to match the development finances it secures from them to the United Nations global sustainable development goals (SDGs) agenda.

This came during the second day of the first edition of Egypts International Cooperation Forum (Egypt-ICF 2021), which concluded on Thursday.

They also said that such an action is anticipated to boost Egypts efforts regarding executing its SDGs agenda in light of Egypts 2030 Vision.

On Wednesday, Egypt-ICF 2021 kicked off under the patronage of President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, with high-level representatives from international development institutions and IFIs in attendance.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt, Elena Panova, asserted the importance of development finances in accomplishing the SDGs, including in Egypt, adding that she is looking forward to collaborating with Egypt in implementing its various development projects.

On his part, the Head of Regional Representation at the European Investment Bank (EIB), Alfredo Abad, noted that the EIB is working with Egypt in implementing projects in the fields of water, infrastructure, agriculture, and supporting the private sector through extending finances and exchanging experiences.

Regional collaboration in light of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was also one of the main pillars that the forum discussed.

The attendees asserted the necessity of benefitting from the AfCFTA in enhancing African countries infrastructure, particularly in terms of logistics, legislation, and technological solutions.

Africa constitutes 17 percent of the global population and about three percent of the global GDP. The continents countries need to focus on supporting industry and production as well as opening the borders for trade flow, said South Africas Trade Minister Ebrahim Patel.

He also stressed the importance of supporting digital technology and mobilising finances and investments in the continent for the sake of enhancing e-commerce among its countries; especially that COVID-19 has proven how e-commerce and digitisation do matter to economies amid the current unprecedented shocks.

Virtually, the Vice President for Middle Eastern Affairs at the US Chamber of Commerce, Steve Lutes, noted that the chamber is carrying out various projects in Egypt and other African countries as well as supporting all available opportunities to invest in the continent.

He added that the US is committed to encourage the ongoing economic reforms in Africa in particular, as well as reinforcing their digital transformation efforts.

Egypt is making significant efforts to collaborate with international companies for the sake of achieving its digital transformation strategy. Egypt is also able to attract giant international companies operating in the e-commerce field, and that was apparent [given] the inauguration of Amazons logistics centre in the country, Lutes explained.

On the other hand, Senior Advisor at the World Trade Centre James Hawley pointed out that there are significant challenges and obstacles that need real solutions to deal with and enhance intra-trade.

He also asserted Africas need to create electronic payment platforms, which will pave the way for trade flow to increase.

Moreover, facilitating intra-trade and e-commerce among African countries and decreasing value-added related taxes should be on the continents top priorities.

During the forums side events, the CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation, Hany Sonbol, said that Egypts government has been at the forefront of development cooperation, providing an innovative framework and a blueprint that can be replicated by other countries to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goals.

Trade finance is more important now than ever before to ensure that the worlds most vulnerable countries are anchored to the international trade system and that they are not left behind, as the trade finance gap  initially estimated at $1.5 trillion before the pandemic  has increased significantly to $3.4 trillion in order to be able to meet the SDGs, Sonbol expounded.

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Weeks after the federal government of Ethiopia engaged in a war in the countrys northern region of Tigray, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed still thought of it as a walk in the park and only a matter of time before the demise of the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front (TPLF).

The quick takeover of Mekelle, the capital of the northern region, sent a wrong signal, even to Ethiopias Western allies, that the federal government was in control and that the TPLF had become something from the past.

However, the now heavy cost of over a billion dollars from the coffers of an already battered economy has pushed the Ahmed government to pull out its forces from the region, allowing the Tigray Defence Force (TDF), militias affiliated to the TPLF, to take matters into their own hands and start an offensive against federal troops in the neighbouring regions of Amhara and Afar.

To the detriment of the federal government, the TPLF has allied itself with one of the incumbent Ethiopian governments worst enemies: the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). The OLA is widely believed to be the military wing of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), though it split from the group in protest in 2018 over a peace agreement between the latter and the federal government. It remains militarily active in western and southern parts of Oromia.

This TPLF-OLA alliance, based on an official announcement, seeks to topple the Ahmed government by force in a replay of the guerrilla warfare that terminated the communist Mengistu government of Ethiopia in 1991 and brought a multi-ethnic coalition to the fore until 2018 when Ahmed was sworn in as the countrys prime minister.

The coalition of the two organisations, officially labelled as terrorist, will exhaust the already drained resources of the Ethiopian government. The TPLF has taken control of the Christian holy site of Lalibila in Amhara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it has expanded its territorial gains in strategic locations in the country.

Moreover, the Tigrayan forces have entered the Afar region, a lifeline for the Ethiopian economy since the main roads and railways connecting landlocked Ethiopia to the sea port of Djibouti run through the region. As Getachew Reda, a former federal government minister and now spokesman of the TPLF, put it, the aim is to degrade enemy fighting capabilities, a reference to troops loyal to the federal government.

Apparently, both the TPLF and the OLA have set primary goals for secession, though it seems that the TPLF may have another goal: to seize control of key cities one after another and then launch a decisive operation against the government in Addis Ababa and topple it. This time round, the TPLF may honour a promise that another Tigrayan, the late Ethiopian prime minister Meles Zenawi, disavowed some 30 years ago: an independent Oromia in return for assistance by the OLA against the Addis Ababa-based government.

Apart from the military tactics that the TPLF and the OLA may have in mind, Ethiopias losses, financial and economic, have been countless. The local currency, the Birr, has been hitting a new low every other day, and today one US dollar stands at 67 Birr, versus 35 a year ago. Some foreign investors that warmly received news of the bold steps taken by the incumbent government to liberalise key sectors of the economy such as telecommunications are now declining to engage in business in the country because of the political uncertainty.

The Ethiopian economy that once boasted double-digit growth of more than 11 per cent a year has now reached a record low. Based on statistics from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the growth rate has dropped to two per cent this year against the backdrop of serious challenges including the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Tigray. Ethiopias foreign debt has reached $60 billion, in other words 70 per cent of the countrys GDP.

Alarmingly, Ethiopia may also be denied access to the immense opportunities provided to African nations by the US African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). This initiative aims at eliminating trade barriers between the US and African countries, and Ethiopia is a beneficiary. But US trade representative Katharine Tai recently fired a shot across the bows by saying that the continued war and human-rights violations in Tigray could affect Ethiopias eligibility to access the benefits of the act.

The issue of internally displaced people is also taking its toll on the Ethiopian economy and the countrys image worldwide. While the federal government and the TPLF have traded accusations on the party blocking access to humanitarian assistance to 5.2 million people in Tigray and neighbouring regions, the ultimate outcome is that the country is witnessing a severe humanitarian crisis.

This has given new life to the image of the country that the former Zenawi government worked its fingers to the bone to change: the correlation between Ethiopias name and poverty as well as wars and conflicts. Ten months of the conflict in Tigray since November last year have dealt a blow to Ethiopias hard-won gains over the last three decades.

Even so, a political settlement to the conflict still looks like a daydream because neither the Ethiopian government nor the TPLF is willing to engage in talks to that end. Both are working on mobilising resources to achieve gains on the ground before any talks can take place.

A disintegrated Ethiopia is not in the best interests of the region or the world as a whole. Ethiopia remains a force to reckon with in the troubled Horn of Africa region, and there is a crying need for the Ethiopian government to trigger a political process, inclusive of all the parties to the conflict, to bring the war in Tigray to an end and to manage its differences with the TPLF.

In the worst-case scenario, if the TPLF works towards secession, the federal government will need to take this issue on board and may reach a win-win recipe for future relations with the Tigrayans. For the moment, however, the war is derailing an entire country and leaving its mark on the livelihoods of 110 million people.

* The writer is a former press attache in Ethiopia and an expert on African and international affairs.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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South Korean Ambassador to Cairo Hong Jin-wook hosted the inaugural ceremony of the Egypt-Korea Digital Ambassador (EKDA) at Steigenberger Hotel in Tahrir Square, Cairo, on 6 September with the support of Mediance, a Korean marketing company in Cairo.

The event was attended by 15 newly-appointed digital ambassadors.

The main role of EKDA, forming the significant part of the embassys public diplomacy, is to digitally promote the Egyptian peoples awareness and understanding of the Korean culture and Egypt-Korea bilateral relations.

Moreover, EKDA is invited to join the embassys various online and offline events and serves as an advisory group for the embassys public diplomacy activities.

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Around 3,200 Egyptians applied for this honorary responsibility and 15 (13 females and two males) active online community managers were finally selected through several online and offline processes, which shows Egyptians' growing affection and interest in the Korean culture.

Presenting certificates of appointment to digital ambassadors, Ambassador Hong congratulated and encouraged the EKDA members to do their best to strengthen the two countries' bilateral relations as the faces of the Korean embassy.

"Aside from our all-time great government-to-government cooperation, we cannot take too much emphasis on the importance of public diplomacy in the sense that people-to-people exchange based on their mutual understanding is essential to make our bilateral relations sustainable," he stated.

Ambassador Hong stressed that as "every aspect of our lives is now getting more and more digitised, especially due to the outbreak of Covid-19, the role of digital ambassadors is becoming more important than ever to creatively promote the image of Korea and Korean culture in the online space of Egypt."

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Plenty of yellow billboards carrying the message The treatment is within you can be seen around Cairo these days. The same message is also being delivered in TV ads. Both are part of a campaign launched by President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi to encourage the public to donate plasma to reach self-sufficiency in it and its derivatives.

Blood plasma, which makes up about 55 per cent of the bodys total blood volume, is a yellowish liquid component of blood that holds proteins and other blood constituents. Awareness of treatment with plasma increased at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 when convalescent plasma therapy was used to treat severely ill patients.

Two-thousand people have so far donated their blood to Egypts six plasma donation centres in five governorates. Twenty more centres will be set up by the end of this year.

The campaign aims at producing plasma-derived medicines as the antibodies and proteins present in plasma used in therapies for many serious health problems and rare chronic health conditions, including autoimmune disorders, hemophilia, and liver and kidney diseases.

According to Khaled Megahed, the spokesman for the Ministry of Health and Population, the six donation centres can take up to 90 people and can collect 300,000 litres of blood annually. The centres operate from 8am to 10pm. Donors should be between 18 and 60 years old, and should weigh not less than 60kg. PCR tests must be performed twice with a negative result both times for blood donations to be accepted. Donations are to be given 14 days after the second PCR negative result, Megahed said.

The ministry, according to Megahed, has put up plasma centres in Cairo, Giza, Alexandria, Gharbiya, and Minya. Donations are allowed once every two weeks in order not to risk donors health, Megahed said, pointing out that donating plasma helps in activating bone marrow to produce new blood cells and renewing plasma proteins. He stressed that a free full health check-up of the donor is carried out periodically.

Donating plasma is simpler than donating blood, Nevine Al-Nahhas, supervisor of the national plasma donation project, told Al-Ahram Weekly. Citizens should not worry about donating plasma as all of the ministrys donating centres have the most advanced equipment and technology in accordance with international standards, Al-Nahhas said, adding that the body can easily restore lost plasma within 48 hours.

According to Al-Nahhas, the project for plasma manufacturing aims to produce drugs related to blood derivatives such as albumin-factor 8 and immunoglobulin. In December, parliament approved a law submitted by the government on regulating blood operations and collecting plasma for the manufacture and export of plasma derivatives.

The draft law included a road map for the collection of plasma and its derivatives in order to achieve self-sufficiency. It included five chapters consisting of 23 articles related to blood operations, plasma collection, manufacture of plasma-derived products and plasma transfusion with the intention of manufacturing its derivatives abroad and then returning them in the form of biological products. The law also covered the import and export of plasma as a raw material or as a material for any stage of the manufacturing process.

The Egyptian Arab Company for Drug Industries and Medical Appliances and the South Korean company SK Plasma signed a memorandum of understanding worth $330 million to build the first factory in Egypt, Africa and the Middle East for plasma derivatives as well as transferring plasma technology to Egypt, Al-Nahhas noted.

We currently import 100 per cent of plasma derivatives, hence the importance of the plasma collection and separation project, she said. Several international bodies have praised the plasma collection centres in Egypts Ministry of Health laboratories, so it was essential to have legislation that would guarantee the governance of the process, Al-Nahhas noted, adding that plasma and its derivatives treat life-threatening diseases.

Training cadres and personnel involved in implementing the plan is currently taking place, according to Ehab Serageddin, director of the Health Ministrys National Blood Bank Services. All the necessary equipment for plasma separation has been provided. The national plasma project would start by collecting plasma and manufacturing its derivatives in cooperation with the South Korean company SK Plasma until the construction of a factory in Egypt is completed, Serageddin said.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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A parliamentary delegation led by Parliament Speaker Hanafi Gibali participated in two conferences held in Vienna, the capital of Austria, this week. The conferences were the World Conference of Speakers of Parliament followed by the first global parliamentary summit on counter-terrorism.

Organised jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Austrian parliament in cooperation with the United Nations, the fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament discussed on 7 and 8 September several issues, including the global response to the coronavirus pandemic, climate change, countering misinformation, youth participation in politics, and gender equality.

The conference was preceded by the 13th Summit of Women Speakers of Parliament on Monday.

In a statement before the conference on Tuesday, Gibali stressed that Egypt had taken several steps in respecting human rights and achieving gender equality.

He said the Egypt has spared no effort in helping women play a more active role in political and economic arenas.

Gibali also indicated that the Egyptian state has exerted great efforts for safeguarding women against the negative impact of the coronavirus.

Egypt has been keen to draft laws that help extend legislative protection for women, according to Gibali, citing the new criminal procedures law which toughens penalties on sexual harassment, allowing women to play a greater role in public life.

The idea of holding an international conference for the worlds parliamentary speakers was first proposed in 2000. The Geneva-based IPU in collaboration with the United Nations decided that a conference for the worlds parliamentary speakers be held every five years to draft a declaration on a parliamentary vision for international cooperation at the dawn of the third millennium. The declaration also calls for, among other things, the United Nations to work with national parliaments, through the IPU, in the pursuit of peace and security, economic and social development, international law and human rights, democracy, and gender issues.

On Monday, Gibali met his Austrian counterpart Wolfgang Sobotka to discuss strengthening parliamentary cooperation. Gibali reviewed Egypts development efforts at all levels, particularly in fighting terrorism and improving the lives of citizens within the framework of the presidential Decent Life initiative.

Gibali and Sobotka, agreed that an Egyptian-Austrian parliamentary friendship association be set up to promote political and legislative cooperation between the two parliaments of Egypt and Austria, particularly in passing legislation aimed at fighting terrorism and also acting as a forum for reinforcing friendly relations between the two countries.

Gibali is also scheduled to participate in the first global parliamentary summit on counter-terrorism, organised by the IPU and the UN.

In a statement before the summit, Gibali reviewed Egypts experience in defeating terrorism and achieving stability, highlighting the role of parliament in passing legislation that helped the state win its war against terrorist movements.

In a meeting with Saqr Ghobash, speaker of the Arab Parliamentary Union and the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates, Gibali stressed the importance of the Arab Gulfs security to Egypt. The security of Arab Gulf countries is a red line for Egypt which rejects all forms of interference in internal Arab affairs, said Gibali, adding that Egypt rejects any attempts aimed at playing havoc with freedom of navigation in Arab Gulf waters.

A statement released by parliament said the summit was a window for MPs from around the world to discuss vital issues related to combating terrorism, providing support for the victims of terrorist crimes and the role of parliamentarians in fighting extremist agendas which lead to the spread of terrorism. The conference, in particular, would focus on the proliferation of terrorist crimes in the African coast and helping nations in this region to join efforts to find solutions to this problem, the statement said.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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The Palestinian cause was high on the agenda of the meeting in Cairo last week between President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Jordans King Abdullah II.

The summit followed a meeting between Abbas and Israeli Defence Minister Benny Gantz and ahead of an expected visit by Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to Cairo to meet with Al-Sisi.

After the three-way summit, Al-Sisi spoke with Israeli counterpart Isaac Herzog, with both agreeing on the need to boost efforts to revive the peace talks between the Palestinians and Israelis.

Wassel Abu Youssef, a member of the Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO) Executive Committee, told Al-Ahram Weekly that the Egyptian-Jordanian-Palestinian summit sent a strong message about the need to create a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with Occupied East Jerusalem as its capital.

The Palestinians rely on their strong partnership with Egypt and Jordan in the conflict with Israel, Abu Youssef said. I believe formulating a joint stance is very important. He said that problems had come as a result of Israels intransigence, as seen in Bennetts statements about a future Palestinian state and his adamant refusal of it before meeting with US President Joe Biden at the end of August.

The timing of the three-way summit was critical, Abu Youssef said, as it was taking place ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting and the Arab Summit meeting scheduled in Algeria later this autumn.

This confirms the Arab readiness, led by Egypt, to formulate a unified position to work on resolving the Palestinian cause. Abu Youssef said that the three-way summit went beyond previous cosmetic solutions that has failed to meet the aspirations of the Palestinian people to end the occupation and create an independent Palestinian state.

Political analysts agree that Egypt is the most politically and diplomatically competent power to play a prominent role in reviving the peace process between the Palestinians and Israelis. Egyptian diplomacy is influential due to its work in resolving many crises in the region and mediating between the Palestinians and Israel.

The analysts add that Egypts role is further bolstered by an Arab consensus and by Washingtons acceptance and support of Cairos efforts as it pursues mediation between the two sides on complex issues. These include a truce between the Gaza Strip and Israel, a prisoner-exchange deal between Hamas and Israel, and sponsoring talks on reconciliation between Fatah and Hamas.

Tayseer Mohaysen, a Palestinian political analyst, said Egypt had sucessfully restored its regional role, especially after the summit meetings in Iraq and Sharm El-Sheikh. Egypt has a historic, pivotal and fundamental role to play in the issues of the nation, he told the Weekly. I believe Egyptian action, whether in Iraq, with Jordan or with the Palestinian leadership and other countries, will coalesce in a strong position in front of Israel, forcing it to return to direct negotiations, or at least to end its repeated assaults on the Palestinians.

Despite doubts about Israels intentions, Egypts efforts make the entire world responsible for achieving peace in the region, especially if the Arabs adopt a stance that calls for achieving a comprehensive, permanent and just peace for the Palestinian cause. Egypts position is a booster to resolve the situation on the ground.

Iyad Jooda, a Palestinian political analyst, believes Egypt through its political and influential position can achieve breakthroughs on several issues, both Arab and Palestinian.

Talking to the Weekly, Jooda said that Egypts achievements, with its strategic relationship with Jordan on several issues, including bringing Iraq back to the Arab fold, strongly reflects the Palestinian condition. What distinguishes the Egyptian role and qualifies it to lead efforts to revive the peace process is that it is not reactive. Egypt operates according to a clear political strategy that is based on the need to achieve peace according to international legitimacy and international law. This empowers Egypt and allows it to be in a position to bring the parties together.

He noted that complaints by players about difficulties obstructing the progress of Egyptian efforts to revive the peace process had nothing to do with Egypts influence. He stressed that the obstacles were mostly due to Israel.

Clearly, the Israelis are not ready for a genuinely strategic process due to the circumstances of the incumbent Israeli government, Jooda said. If a member of this cabinet resigns, the government will collapse in favour of the radical right, he said, including the Likud Party which is waiting in the wings.

Jooda said that the Palestinians should not rely on the Israeli position, especially since the incumbent government is fragile and could crumble at any moment. At the same time, however, he believes that Egyptian moves rightly put the responsibility for the Palestinian cause on the shoulders of the world and the Quartet of Egypt, Jordan, Germany and France in coordination with the United States and other parties.

Domestic Palestinian issues were part of the obstacles to formulating a genuine peace process. Palestinian divisions are not conducive to formulating a single Palestinian vision or mobilising the masses behind major issues, he said.

He explained that Cairo understood this well and was continuing its efforts to end Palestinian divisions and achieve reconciliation, voiding Israels claim that there is no unified Palestinian partner to deal with. The PA does not control the Gaza Strip, where power is in the hands of Hamas, a group that rejects the peace process with Israel.

Egypt has coordinated with Qatar to transfer financial aid from Doha to the Gaza Strip via the PA in a bid to maintain official Palestinian representation in the Strip. It frequently states that the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip should proceed through official PA channels and in coordination with Hamas, in order to guarantee the broadest presence of the PA in Gaza.

Despite obstacles that await attempts to revive the peace process in the Middle East due to the myriad of regional circumstances, the Palestinians on the official and popular levels are counting on Egypts diplomacy to lay the foundations for the road back to peace.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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On Saturday, Egypt will see the launch of the new National Strategy for Human Rights, a document of around 100 pages that stipulates a set of government commitments to improve elements of socio-economic, cultural, and political rights in the country over the next five years.



Better access to job opportunities, education, healthcare, and religious freedoms are among the highlights of the document co-drafted by government officials and a group of civil society figures during a period of over a year.



According to government and civil-society sources familiar with the text, the document also shows a commitment to improving political rights. However, on this issue in particular there may be different reactions.



Chair of the Egyptian Organisation for Human Rights Essam Shiha said the state was offering a comprehensive overview of different types of rights in the new strategy, including the socio-economic rights that are the priority of the people and the political rights that have been heavily lobbied for by human rights organisations in Egypt.



The authorities have accommodated a good part of the ideas that civil society has introduced on political rights, Shiha said. But there is the context as well, which among other things includes the majority wish of the people to have stability and security, he added.



According to a government official involved in the drafting of the document, the text is designed for a five-year term. This, he said, was a recognition on the part of the government that the strategy is a step that can be followed by other steps.



Another government official said that it was important to note that the document is not just about the middle of the road of what the government and civil society could agree on. It is also the middle of the road of what different government bodies think is plausible and can be done.



Finding a consensus was hard work, he stated.



When we talked about the rights of elderly people or citizens with special needs, for example, we certainly would have wanted to commit to doing more, but we had to be mindful of budget constraints. So, we committed to what we are sure today that we can do, and we hope that we can do more, he said.



He added that the same applies to political rights and liberties. There had to be agreement among the many concerned government bodies [including the security side] on what could be done in view of the crucial security agenda.



Both government sources, who spoke to Al-Ahram Weekly on condition of anonymity, argued that it made perfect sense for the greater part of the document to be dedicated to socio-economic and cultural rights because the strategy is designed to be in line with national and government concerns.



They added that the right to an end of all forms of religion-based bias was a lot more important to the vast majority of the population than the demand to facilitate the right to demonstrations, for example.



According to Nigad Al-Borai, a long-time human rights activist who was involved in the consultations over the document, the references in it to political rights and liberties are not bad at all  in the sense that this is the first time that the government has taken upon itself the task of working towards improving these rights and liberties.



Looking at the glass as half-full rather than half-empty, this strategy offers a precedent in the sense that it is a commitment on the part of the government to working on improving the quality of human rights, including political rights and liberties, Al-Borai said.



He added that it was better to start somewhere than object to the document as insufficient and then get nothing from the government.



But neither Al-Borai nor Shiha overlook the voices within the human rights community that argue that the circulated content of the document falls short of their expectations, especially on the issue of pre-trial detention. Al-Borai is also aware of demands in some human rights quarters for the government to reconsider its position on some detainees associated with political activism.



These, he said, were legitimate concerns. However, he added that most such issues were already addressed in the text of the 2014 constitution and legal texts that have been public for a long time.



It is not as if we dont already have some decent legal and constitutional framing for human rights. We do. It is a question of the levels of implementation, he argued.



The difference between the 2014 constitution, which I think is a very good and very progressive text, and this new National Strategy for Human Rights is that the latter is a commitment that the government co-wrote, Al-Borai said. And it is quite something to have the government signing up to what it is willing to do, he added.



Human rights developments in Egypt traditionally get a lot of world attention, especially from the organisations concerned. They are also sometimes brought up in high-level political talks.



Egyptian officials for their part have often said that the countrys security bodies have to face up to militant groups that try to provoke instability.



We have international obligations, and the state has shown its commitment, especially within the UN Human Rights Council, to honour these obligations. It has been a work in progress, Shiha said. The very fact that we are now having this comprehensive strategy is part of this progress, he added.



The issue is not closed  as is the case with all other countries in the world, the debate on human rights in Egypt is an ongoing question, he said.



We do discuss all matters of human rights with the Egyptian government on a regular basis, but we do this behind closed doors for the most part to ensure a candid conversation and some good outcomes, said one Cairo-based Western diplomat.



With the upcoming release of the new National Strategy for Human Rights, the diplomat added, all the friends of Egypt will be in a better place to discuss the matter with the government.



Egypt, government officials say, will always act to address matters of human rights in line with the Egyptian agenda where security inevitably figures highly.



According to Al-Borai, what counts now is the implementation of what the government has committed itself to in order to keep the momentum going.



The release of the National Strategy, he added, had come side by side with a few, but systematic, releases of political figures that had been in pre-trial detention in Egypt, with some in a complex legal situation due to a sequence of charges.



Al-Borai and Shiha credit the hard and diligent work of civil society for having secured the release of the new strategy. It was, they said, testimony to the power of incremental steps.



We in civil society can help the government to improve its performance on human rights. We cannot just confine ourselves to criticism, even when criticism is due. We have to encourage the positive steps to keep them coming, Al-Borai said.



While some critics have called the new strategy an act of PR on the part of the government, Al-Borai and Shiha argue that the issue is not about the intentions of the government but rather about what the government is now committed to doing.



It is a strong show of political commitment, and we never expected to have all our concerns fixed in one go, Shiha concluded.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Morocco became the most recent Arab country to announce the normalisation of relations with Israel on 10 December as part of a bigger deal in which the US will recognise Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara.

The deal is widely seen as a carrot-and-stick package in which Morocco will agree to the normalisation in return for US support in claiming sovereignty over the long-disputed territory.

Outgoing US president Donald Trump has said he is offering win-win deals to the Arab countries to persuade them to normalise relations with Israel. Trump has presented non-repudiable offers under the so-called Abraham Accords to the UAE, Bahrain, Sudan and Morocco that include benefits long sought by each country.

However, implementing some of these deals may entail conflicts or large amounts of compensation, like in the cases of Morocco and Sudan. They are also seen as promises that have yet to be realised.

Sudan was officially removed from the US states sponsoring terrorism list by Washington on 14 December. However, a lobby of Democratic Party senators is trying to impede the delisting decision by pushing a draft resolution through Congress to make Sudan pay compensation to victims of the Al-Qaeda attacks on the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania in 1998 and victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks in the US.

This is in addition to the 2016 US Justice Against Sponsors of Terrorism Act (JASTA) that fines terror-linked states and makes them pay heavy compensation to the victims of the September 11 attacks.

According to Adnan Abu Amer, head of the Political Science Department at the University of the Ummah in Gaza, the US administration has exploited sensitive issues in the Arab countries by granting special privileges if they establish normalisation with Israel. They are issues that need a long time to be solved on the ground, however.

Trump has simply given hopeful promises about the internal affairs of Sudan and Morocco, Amer told Al-Ahram Weekly.

Algeria has been irritated by the Moroccan decision, with Prime Minister Abdelaziz Djerad lashing out at the decision to normalise relations with Israel, saying it was an effort to destabilise his country. He complained of a desire to bring the Zionist entity to our borders, a reference to Israel.

Algeria, which borders both Morocco and the disputed Western Sahara, has actively supported the Polisario Front, a separatist movement of the Sahrawi ethnic group in the area, and it is home to more than 100,000 Sahrawis living in refugee camps. Mauritania, which has the longest border with Western Sahara, also sides with the unrecognised Sahrawi Republic in the Western Sahara.

According to Mohamed Al-Hilali, head of the Moroccan Centre for Contemporary Studies and Research, a think tank, these developments should reduce the pressure on Algeria, which has devoted its efforts to defending the Sahara cause alone after the abandonment of Libya.

He told the Weekly that he considered neighbouring Algeria, Moroccos regional rival and the key foreign backer of the separatist Polisario Front, as betting on a zero-sum situation. Algeria should benefit from the situation of curbing separatists as it has begun boosting a similar narrative domestically.

But Moroccan-Israeli ties existed even before the normalisation. Israel and Morocco established low-level diplomatic relations during the 1990s following a thawing of ties between Israel and the Palestinians.

Those contacts were suspended in 2002 in response to the Second Intifada in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. Since then, however, the relationship has continued informally, with tens of thousands of Israelis travelling to Morocco every year.

Morocco considers that the normalisation is not a spur-of-the-moment decision, according to Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita in an interview with the Israeli Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper on Sunday. He said the issue was not about normalising ties because relations were already normal.

Were talking about [re-formalising] the relations, he added.

Bourita highlighted Moroccos connections to Israel through its domestic Jewish community and the estimated 700,000 Israeli Jews of Moroccan descent.

Morocco has an important history with the Jewish community, a history that is special in the Arab world, he told the paper. Its my understanding that just this past year 70,000 Israelis came to visit here.

According to Yehia Ghanem, a Middle East Affairs expert, Moroccan-Israeli ties have a special nature that cant be compared to the other normalising countries. They have existed for years. Its like a secret marriage thats only now being revealed.

Adnan Abu Amer focused on the long procedures that may take place before applying the normalisation decision. Theyre not decisions made just by the stroke of a pen, Amer said. Normalisation with Israel may just be the tip of the iceberg, and there are other government procedures to be taken by the Pentagon, Congress, the US Department of State and lawmakers, he said.

Amer believes that incoming US President Joe Biden will not pursue further normalisations unless there are further negotiations about political, security and demographic matters.

Al-Hilali said that what has been achieved in the Western Sahara is the culmination of a long political and civil struggle and a sign of a new phase that includes international support for the political solution proposed by Morocco, which is a solution based on expanding its autonomy over the Sahara.

US recognition of Moroccos sovereignty over the Western Sahara marked an official transition to a political solution after gaining UN and international recognition, Al-Hilali told the Weekly.

The Palestinians have denounced the normalisation deals, which have broken with decades of Arab League consensus that there should be no recognition of Israel until it agrees to a peace that includes the creation of an independent Palestinian state.

Al-Hilali said that the transfer from a clandestine normalisation limited to commercial exchanges to an open and political one had caused a popular shock.

Normalisation at this time is unjustified, especially since it comes during the lame-duck outgoing Trump administration that has been electorally defeated and is known for its bias towards tyrannical regimes and rejection of democratic choices, he said.

The agreements concluded at the Khartoum Summit in 1967 and the Arab Peace Initiative in 2002 state that no normalisation or Arab peace can be made except after resolving the Palestinian issue. But the fact is that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has neglected these principles by conducting Arab-Israeli normalisation without a real solution to the Palestinian issue, Amer said.

After the start of the normalisation wave that began with the UAE and Bahrain, Palestine recalled its ambassadors to the UAE and Bahrain in August and September, respectively, condemning the moves as a stab in the back and a betrayal.

It has been claimed that Ramallah has since quietly returned its ambassadors.

Egypt has historically led negotiations on the Palestinian issue. However, the new rapprochements between the Arabs and Israel may weaken its influence in leading peace efforts in the region, according to Amer.

The Gulf countries will appear as peace-brokers in the region after announcing open ties with Tel Aviv, he said.

Normalisation would do more harm than good, he said, as it distanced the Arabs from the Palestinian cause, made Israel seem a partner and not a foe, and lowered expectations for a real solution to the crisis and could force them to accept unsatisfactory deals.

Bidens presidency could be a shift in the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as he has a different approach from Trump on the issue.

Jordanian expert on Israeli affairs Ayman D Hunaiti, told the Weekly that the normalisation deals between the Arab countries and Israel would accelerate the search for a political solution towards the two-state solution. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas was eagerly awaiting Bidens victory, while for the Israelis, they were awaiting the return of Trumpism that implemented decisions that no previous US administration had dared to make, like the decision to move the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and the recognition of the Syrian Golan Heights as part of Israel.

Saeed Okasha, an Israeli affairs analyst at the Al-Ahram Centre for Political and -Strategic Studies in Cairo, told the Weekly that such deals could make the Palestinians more flexible in terms of their expectations about the two-state solution and more open to make major concessions to accept a modified version of Trumps plan, but under the auspices of the Democrats.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 17 December, 2020 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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One of the most highly anticipated issues under US President Joe Biden is his revamping of former president Donald Trumps key policies, especially those set just before he left office.

Among them were agreements made under the so-called Abraham Accords under which certain Arab countries normalised ties with Israel. Morocco received US recognition of its sovereignty over the long-disputed Western Sahara region last December in return for its normalisation with Israel.

However, some 25 US lawmakers have now called upon Biden to undo what they called a misguided decision by Trump with regard to the Western Sahara region. Thus far, the US State Department has said it does not have any updates concerning the decision.

Trumps move on the Western Sahara was a dramatic shift in US policy, and undoing it now could damage US relations with Morocco and possibly cause Rabat to reverse its promise to normalise relations with Israel.

But its US opponents say that it has alienated a significant number of African nations, according to the lawmakers letter to Biden.

As the recognition was part of the Abraham Accords, the Biden administration will probably not want to put the normalisation of ties between Morocco and Israel at risk, in addition to the fact that the Western Sahara conflict doesnt rank high in terms of the administrations priorities in the Middle East, said Anna Jacobs, a non-resident fellow at the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington.

Bidens team will likely support efforts to reinstitute the ceasefire between Morocco and Polisario and to re-start UN-sponsored talks, Jacobs told Al-Ahram Weekly, referring to the Polisario Front which wants to see independence for the Western Sahara region.

Algeria, which backs the Polisario Front, is working with high-profile lobby firms in the US to gain influence on the Western Sahara issue. The self-proclaimed Sahrawi Republic in the Western Sahara and then the Algerian government hired the US law firm Foley Hoag to promote the regions independence of Morocco.

In 2007, Morocco presented an autonomy plan for the territory to the United Nations that would grant autonomy for the region within the framework of the kingdoms national unity. Documents received under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) state that Algeria paid Foley Hoag $420,000 for its work between 2019 and 2020.

The [lawmakers] letter is a result of lobbying work undertaken by Foley Hoag. Biden will have no incentive to reverse the decision especially regarding a conflict of low intensity and between long-standing US allies that enjoy mostly bipartisan US support, said Samir Bennis, a political analyst specialising in Morocco.

From a legal perspective, once a sovereign state recognises the sovereignty of another state over a territory, that decision is irrevocable. The only exception to this rule is where there is a UN resolution, Bennis added in comments to the Weekly.

The US views Morocco as a stable partner in the region, meaning that Biden risks upsetting an important ally if he rescinds the recognition, Kelsey Norman, fellow for the Middle East at the Baker Institute for Public Policy at Rice University in the US, told the Weekly.

Washington will not want to lose Morocco as a major non-NATO ally in the region.

Israel will also not want to sacrifice the normalisation deal gained with Morocco, particularly since Moroccan King MohammedVI has promised he will facilitate direct flights for Jews of Moroccan origin and Israeli tourists to and from Morocco and re-open liaison offices that closed in 2002.

The package of the [normalisation] deal with Trump includes recognition of sovereignty, setting up a US embassy in the Sahara, some US investments and possibly more military cooperation in the area. The US benefits from the trilateral deal in terms of arms sale to Morocco, cooperation in fighting terrorism and the potential for limiting Russia-China influence in North Africa. It would not be expected of any US administration to forsake these strategic gains, said Abderrahim Chalfaouat, a professor at the Hassan II University in Casablanca.

Israel is not expected to forsake the deal either, and it will put pressure on the Biden administration not to reverse it, Chalfaouat added. The size of the strategic loss and expected pressure from pro-Morocco and pro-Israel lobbies will oblige the administration to remain in a twilight zone that recognises the trilateral agreement indirectly.

Morocco annexed the former Spanish colony in 1975, unleashing a 16-year war and then 30 years of stalemate between Morocco and the Polisario Front, an organisation seeking Western Saharas independence that is based in and backed by Algeria.

The Saharawi people have decided to continue the armed struggle to defend their legitimate rights to be an independent state, after being failed by the international community to reach independence after 29 years of the peace process led by the UN, especially with the lack of political will from the powers of the Group of Friends of the Western Sahara  the US, Spain, France, the UK and Russia, said Omeima Abdeslam, Polisarios UN ambassador on human rights in Geneva.

The Western Sahara has lacked international representation since the last UN envoy for the territory, former German president Horst Kohler, stepped down. The UN has a permanent mission in Western Sahara that has been monitoring the 1991 ceasefire between Morocco and Polisario to end the war and monitor the ceasefire.

A restart of negotiations under UN auspices is becoming urgent after the ceasefire deal comes to an end this year. The appointment of a high-profile UN envoy who could mediate between the two sides and negotiate a truce and a joint and sustained effort by the US, France, Russia and Algeria to keep up the pressure on both sides to restart talks and negotiate a mutually acceptable solution on the status of this territory is needed, Riccardo Fabiani, director for North Africa at the International Crisis Group, an international NGO, told the Weekly.

Jacobs said it was Morocco that was in the drivers seat in this conflict. The reality is that Morocco controls the majority of the region and has the backing (to varying degrees) of powerful allies, including the US, Israel and the Gulf states, and major European states like France. Many countries are looking to benefit from the economic development and connectivity of this disputed region, she said.

Polisario is primarily backed by Algeria, a country overwhelmed by its own political and economic challenges, and supported diplomatically by the African Union and countries like South Africa. But none of these countries will stick their necks out for Polisario, she added.

While Bennis believes that a comprehensive solution can be sought through the Moroccan autonomy plan, according to UN General Assembly Resolution 2625 adopted in October 1970, self-determination could be achieved through the creation of a sovereign and independent state, free association or integration within an independent state or autonomy.

The Moroccan autonomy plan would allow the Saharawi people to run their own affairs through their legislative, executive and judiciary bodies. The region would be headed by a head of government and have a parliament. Morocco would retain the attributes of sovereignty, namely the national flag, the national anthem and the currency, the management of foreign affairs, national security, defence, as well as the prerogatives of the king, Bennis added.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 4 March, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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The recent US withdrawal from Afghanistan has been problematic for both the US and Asia as a whole. The success in its fight against the US military of the Taliban group, which hosted terrorist groups in Afghanistan before the US invasion of the country in 2001, has raised fears of many governments around the world about international security.

The heart-breaking scenes of people waiting to flee the country at Kabul Airport, where dozens were killed in terrorist attacks and thousands more were left behind by the US and other planes taking refugees out of the country, should be added to the list of concerns.

The way in which the US left the country after a 20-year presence in Afghanistan has led to questions on whether the departure could have been managed better by the US Biden administration.

Speaking to Vanda Felbab-Brown, a senior fellow at the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology in the Foreign Policy Programme at the US think tank the Brookings Institution in Washington, Al-Ahram Weekly sought insight on these and other issues.

Felbab-Brown is director of the Initiative on Nonstate Armed Actors and co-director of the Africa Security Initiative at the Brookings Institution. She was a senior adviser to the Afghan Study Group established in December 2019 by the US Congress to provide policy recommendations that consider the implications of a peace settlement, or the failure to reach a settlement, on US policy, resources and commitments in Afghanistan.

The groups findings were made public in February this year, with many of them subsequently ignored by the Biden administration. The group called for an immediate diplomatic effort to extend the May 2021 withdrawal date for US forces from Afghanistan, the creation of conditions for an acceptable peace agreement, and continued basic support, with other donors, for the essential institutions of the Afghan state, including security institutions.

To what extent did the Biden administration abide by policy recommendations provided by the Afghan Study Group on the US presence in Afghanistan?

I would like to make it clear that I am speaking as a senior fellow at Brookings and not on behalf of the Study Group. I dont have a role as a spokesperson for it. The Study Group recommended that the United States stay in Afghanistan with a limited military force, but it outlined several other options. One of them was full US military withdrawal. Clearly, the Biden administration studied various options and decided to go with a full withdrawal, which in my view was the correct decision even though it would carry severe consequences like those we have seen in Afghanistan over the past few months.

The US withdrawal from Afghanistan was seen as catastrophic by many, especially in terms of its strategic implications and the evacuation process. Could Biden have done it better?

It is important to separate the strategic question of whether the withdrawal was the best US policy option from the technical execution of it. Let me start with the strategic decision. As I wrote in [the US journal] Foreign Affairs, I believe it was right even though it was inevitable that the United States would lose the gains it earned in Afghanistan and that the Taliban would come to power. Essentially, the Biden administration, like the three former administrations, had to choose one out of various options.

The first was to stay with an open-ended commitment and continue to fight for four or five years, yet without any prospect of defeating the Taliban. In fact, since 2016 or 2017, it was clear that the Taliban were slowly but surely leading the battlefield and that the Afghan political leaders were indifferent to that and unwilling to make the necessary adjustments to how they were governing Afghanistan. This includes the Afghan security forces. The weaknesses of the Afghan security forces that we saw in July, although far greater than anyone expected, were exactly the same as those they had in 2013. This became clear even in 2015 when the Taliban captured the provincial city of Kunduz. The Afghan political leaders ignored such problems as they did with other governance problems because they persuaded themselves that the United States could continue to fight in Afghanistan for more years to come.

Biden could not leave 5,000 or even 2,500 troops beyond the deadline because the Taliban would eventually attack them again. Accordingly, within the coming years, Biden would have faced the same dilemma, which was withdrawing and seeing things collapse or staying for another five or 10 years at the cost of $10 to $50 billion per year. There was no way out of this dilemma: Biden had to accept the defeat now.

Yet, on whether the withdrawal could have been done better, a set of diplomatic mistakes was made by the Biden administration. Those mistakes did not change the outcomes, but they could have reduced the irritation of the US allies. I also think it was possible to negotiate with the Taliban on extending the withdrawal deadline to the end of this year. This would have given the Afghans a slightly better chance to get over the psychological shock of the US withdrawal.

I told my Afghan friends that they should start seeking immigration to other countries, including the US, because it was clear that the Talibans takeover would happen.

The troops were evacuated before making sure that all US civilians had left the country. Was this the right thing to have done?

This argument has validity. From the execution perspective, it would have been technically easier to transport the civilians out of Afghanistan to avoid the insecurity and trauma we saw at the airport. However, the issue that the Biden administration was struggling with was that if they initiated the evacuation quickly in June or July, this would have been an important signal that it was certain that the Ghani government would fall.

There was also a considerable byplay going on between the Biden and Ghani administrations. In April, after Biden announced that the US forces would be out by 11 September, there was a big political reaction in the US and demands that visas should be given to vulnerable Afghans, including translators who worked for the US military. The Biden administration began to intensely focus on this issue, but there was a tremendous outcry and pushback by Afghan President Ashraf Ghani, who was complaining that by focusing on the visa process, the US was undermining his forces.

Ghani was pushing back against any early evacuations because he feared the psychological impact on his troops.

Should the world recognise the Taliban as the government of Afghanistan or should it isolate them as was the case before the US war on Afghanistan that started in 2001?

I think there is a third option, and there are indications that many countries are heading towards it. This involves engaging with the Taliban without necessarily providing them with a formal recognition, while avoiding isolation and sanctions.

The Taliban apparently are under economic sanctions that have squeezed the economy in a country where one third of the population faces acute food insecurity and 90 per cent of the population live in poverty. If sanctions are to be applied, they have to be smart to provide bargaining leverage in talks with the Taliban over their most terrible policies. One of them is the policy to allow terrorism to flow out of Afghanistan. The Taliban understand that if they allow their territory to be used for terrorism anywhere, they will pay a heavy price.

They will not reestablish links with groups like Al-Qaeda: the cost would be very high for them. Another policy that I would like to see us using our leverage with is the Talibans ban on women not leaving their houses without their male guardians, which was part of their policies in the 1990s. The Taliban are speaking about this now again. They also have another policy of not allowing women to hold any positions outside the household.

At the same time, I dont think we should rush into recognition because it carries many consequences, including the loss of leverage and giving room for governments to open embassies, and it is important for the Taliban. The Taliban is a brutal, authoritarian and religiously dogmatic group, and they will remain so. Bargaining over recognition and giving them access to their bank accounts will not transform the Taliban into a pro-pluralism and pro-rights entity.

Could Turkey, Iran or Qatar fill the gaps left by the US in Afghanistan?

I dont think anyone can fulfill the US role as it existed. By that, I mean $4 or $5 billion dollars per year, funding and training the Afghan security forces and army, and providing millions of dollars for civilian assistance. Even China or Russia cannot play this role.

That being said, since Afghanistan now has a smaller share of US foreign policy than before, there is a need for neighbouring countries like China, Russia and Iran, and more distant ones like Turkey, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar, to step up.

Pakistan has played a significant role in Afghanistan, although it has supported the Taliban in the past 20 years. Pakistan has already announced that it will work with the Taliban to reform the Afghan security forces. I think that China, however, will be cautious in how it will engage with the Taliban. There is a lot of talk about the minerals that exist in Afghanistan and that are worth $1 trillion, which has been known for the past decade. But the extraction has never been done, and even countries like China that bought licences for it didnt actually use them.

China is concerned about preventing terrorism leakage into its territories and any kind of Taliban support for its Muslim population. Chinas relations, and also Russias, with the Taliban have improved considerably over the past several years. China and Russia did this a few years ago on the assumption that the Taliban would come to power. But they then hoped that the Taliban would rule through a coalition. They now have their embassies open in Afghanistan, and they recently vetoed a UN resolution on Afghanistan as part of their approach to keep their contacts with the Taliban.

But, again, I do not overestimate that. The Ghani government hoped that China would come in with huge economic resources or military forces in 2014 and 2015, but this didnt happen.

The Taliban reportedly have American hostages, and dozens of Americans were killed in the airport blasts. Will the withdrawal affect the results of the next US elections, especially those for the House of Representatives in 2022 and the presidency in 2024?

I dont think so. You are right that the Biden administration domestically has faced a lot of criticism over Afghanistan in recent weeks, particularly from the Republican Party and some members of Bidens Democratic Party. However, by and large, the US population does not really vote on the basis of foreign policy. There are some exceptions, but they are very rare.

What will decide the outcomes of the midterms is the state of the economy, Covid-19 and social policies like abortion. Local issues will be far more important in the midterms than Afghanistan. Even, in the foreign policy context, issues like the flow of people to the United States from Central America will be more significant than issues happening in faraway places.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Leader of the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan Ahmed Massoud wrote on Facebook on Sunday that he welcomed a proposal by religious scholars to negotiate a settlement with the Taliban to end the fighting in the provincial capital of Panjshir.

The Taliban claimed on Monday to have secured control over the rugged Valley that was a symbol of resistance against Soviet forces in Afghanistan between 1979 and 1989 and then under the first rule of the Taliban between 1996 and 2001.

It was the only region the extremist group could not control. However, Al-Qaeda assassinated Shah Massoud, father of Ahmed Massoud, in 2001 before the US invasion of Afghanistan. This years Taliban takeover of Afghanistan severed communications between Panjshir and the north, which had provided supplies to the fortified Valley.

The Taliban managed to buy off opponents as it took over the country, head of Britains Armed Forces General Sir Nick Carter told the BBC.

I dont think we realised quite what the Taliban were up to, he stated, adding that the Taliban were not fighting to take over cities, but were paying them off and buying off other fighters.

Tribal loyalties could have further weakened the Afghan army, which was trained and armed by the US during its nearly 20-year occupation of the country. Ethnic Pashtun fighters sided with the Taliban, while soldiers from other ethnicities fled when they realised there was no point in fighting the extremist movement.

The fragility of the resistance in the Panjshir Valley may be evidence of the strong hold of the Taliban over the country. However, this may not last for long.

Afghanistan is a country of diverse ethnicities divided between the Pashtuns, who comprise about 40 per cent of the population, the Tajiks who represent about 20 per cent, and the Uzbeks and Shia Hazaras, each making up nine per cent of the population.

The Talibans oppression will provoke the Tajiks, who represent a large part of the Afghan political, economic and cultural elite. The extremism practised by the Taliban also harms the Shia Hazaras. Together, the Tajiks and Shias represent more than one-third of the population, which will make it difficult for the Taliban to rule the country without their support.

Another difficulty facing Taliban rule in Afghanistan is the attitude of neighbouring countries, with India unlikely to accept a regime in Afghanistan controlled by Pakistan, which contributed to the establishment of the Taliban.

The majority of the extremist groups leaders were educated in religious schools in Pakistan, and India may support Afghanistans opposition even though it does not share borders with Afghanistan to deliver military aid.

Iran is another thorn in the side of the Taliban, who have been implicated in suppressing and persecuting Shia Hazaras. Tehran may thus oppose the Taliban for religious reasons, particularly as this may increase the popularity of hardliners in the Iranian regime led by the newly elected President Ebrahim Raisi.

Despite US media reports that Beijing wants to invest in Afghanistan through its Belt and Road Initiative or in the promising Afghan mining sector, China has long been worried about Islamist and Buddhist movements in the region.

The Western media has accused Beijing of detaining a million adults and 3,000 minors from the Muslim Uighur ethnicity, though the Chinese authorities claim they are being held in vocational and cultural rehabilitation centres established to counter extremism and separatism.

Beijing fears that Afghanistan may turn into a safe haven for terrorists and that thousands of Uighurs may take advantage of their presence in Afghanistan to establish a launching pad to fight the Chinese authorities.

Should this happen, relations between Beijing and Kabul will be destroyed beyond repair.

The same applies in the case of Russia, which has been engaged in wars against extremist Islamist movements in Chechnya and Syria. Russia will do its best to prevent terrorists moving from Syria and Turkey to Afghanistan, from where they could wage a war against it.

Turkey wants to get rid of thousands of terrorists who fought in Syria under its supervision without tangible results. It may seize the opportunity to move them to Afghanistan, just as it did in Libya when it transported hundreds, if not thousands, of guerrilla fighters to the latter country to support the former Government of National Accord headquartered in the Libyan capital Tripoli.

Pakistan is trying to market the Taliban as an Islamist movement that has learned from its past mistakes and that will not persecute women and minorities like it did during its first period of rule.

Pakistan needs to play this role to market itself to the West as a moderate state that can contribute to converting extremists to moderates and hence remove the US embargo enforced since the time of former US president Donald Trump.

The West has accused Pakistan of creating Taliban rule in Afghanistan to counter India. Many observers believe that if Pakistan loses its presence in Afghanistan, it will vanish from the international stage since it does not otherwise have a role to play in neighbouring countries.

Islamabad also hopes that the Chinese Road and Belt Initiative passing through Afghanistan will improve its own economic conditions.

It fears that were it to lose its influence over the Taliban, the latter could demand the union of Pashtuns in Afghanistan and Pakistan or that Pakistans Pashtuns could draw closer to Afghanistan.

For all such reasons, the fate of the Taliban, as the sole ruler of Afghanistan or as a party in a civil war, depends on both its domestic policies and on the complicated state of international relations in the region and beyond.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Embassy of Chile

Wed 15, 4pm (Cairo time): Atacama Desert: Gateway to the Universe, webinar is organized by the Embassy of Chile in Cairo, on the occasion of the National Day of Chile.

It will introduce Chilean astronomer Eduardo Unda-Sanzana, Ph.D. in Astronomy, Director of the Astronomy Center at University of Antofagasta, who will offer a tour of the night skies of the Atacama Desert, in the Antofagasta Region in northern Chile, revealing some of Chiles most remarkable features, as well as introducing astrophotography techniques for capturing images of the night sky. The Antofagasta Region is home to some of the world's largest astronomical observatories and is famous for its extraordinary natural landscapes. Its location in the Atacama Desert makes this area an exceptional setting for observing the Universe.

To join or invite guests to join the online live event, please register your attendance by scanning the attached QR code or via the following link: https://bit.ly/3ybX2wC

French Cultural Institute

The Institute has launched its new website at the beginning of 2021. You can visit it through this link: www.ifegypte.com

The new website is carefully designed to meet your requirements and facilitate access to information. It is also fast, easy to use, and offers a variety of content and new ways to communicate with the institute. With one click, you can view the spaces devoted to French language courses, Arabic language courses, various events in all branches (exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events). In addition to contacting the institute directly by sending your messages to any of its sectors through its website. If you have difficulty completing the French language courses at the headquarters of the French Institute in Egypt in Mounira, Heliopolis, New Cairo, Sheikh Zayed and Alexandria, you can continue them online. It takes the health of its customers very seriously and has implemented strict health measures to provide you with the best possible educational conditions. Wearing a mask is mandatory for all and physical spacing is respected in the classroom and in the building.

For more information flock to the institutes website[email protected].

You can choose the branch you prefer and see the French language courses for adults and children that are appropriate for you and register there. You can also call the institute at the following numbers: 01205558639/01227484951/

01222196984, from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

French Cultural Institute

Madrasset Al-Huquq Al Frinseya St, Mounira, Tel 02 2791 5800

Media Library

Fri 10,10am: Story Time with actress, artist and translator Lamia Gouda, who takes us on a new storytelling hour.

Fri 10, 11am-1pm: For the start of the school year, the new scientific workshop for children from 8 years old by Taina Cluzeau, helps children discover the history of secret codes. How they are invented? How to decode them? How to create your own secret language. Between history, science and mathematics, Cluzeau will teach them how to become real secret agents.

Italian Cultural Institute

Registration for general language courses for the fall session is open until 11 September. For further information write to [email protected]

Italy has been celebrating the 700th anniversary of the passing of Dante Alighieri. Also, the Italian Institute continues to post videos in Arabic with translations from Dante Alighieris masterpiece The Divine Comedy to bring the Arab-speaking public closer to the work of the supreme poet. Videos are directed by Giabluca Barbadori, with the special participation of Ashraf Farouk, Amir Salaheddin, Sherine Hegazy, and Sara El-Mokadem.

The Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo, the Embassy of the Swiss Confederation in Egypt and the Traduxit Laboratory, in order to promote the translation and dissemination of Italian and Swiss-Italian poetry in Arabic-speaking countries, announce the second edition for the countries of Arabic language of the M'ILLUMINO / D'IMMENSO award. Deadline is 10 September.

Tues 14, 5pm (Online): Within the prestigious literature festival on 700 years on the death of Dante Alighieri, IIC Director Davide Scalmani will talk with professor Hussein Mahmoud on the recent Arabic translation of Dante Alighieris Vita Nova. For the festival programme, go to http://www.naxoslegge.com/

Tahrir Cultural Centre (TCC)

AUCs Tahrir Campus

Oriental Hall

Thurs 9, 3 - 4.30pm: History of Dance Dating Back to Ancient Egypt, a lecture by Amie Sultan presented by She Arts international three-day art and cultural festival.

Fri 10, 5-7pm: A lecture by Egyptian award-winning screenwriter Mariam Naoum.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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On 31 August, the United States ended the longest war in the history of the American Republic when the last US soldier left Afghanistan.

The moment was not one of jubilation and the declaration of victory, however, and nor was it one where moral and political courage commended the day. Instead, the world witnessed the sad ending of an overly ambitious US strategy of nation-building in Afghanistan.

The ones who celebrated were members of the very same politico-religious movement that the US had pushed out of power by the use of force 20 years earlier in October 2001. This year, the Taliban retook 90 per cent of Afghan territory, including the capital Kabul, in less than a month.

Other Islamist and terrorist groups in other countries joined the Taliban in celebrating the groups victory. Calls for jihad have been heard across the Middle East, in the Sahel countries in Africa and wherever there are terror groups that want to replicate the example of the Taliban. All these groups have been inspired by recent scenes of Taliban leaders in the Afghan presidential palace in Kabul. If the Taliban persevered for 20 years and never laid down their arms, why should other groups not succeed in doing something similar, either now or in the future?

Probably this is the gravest consequence of the Afghan debacle. Regardless of what US officials have said in explaining and justifying the decision by the US to withdraw from Afghanistan and the way in which this was implemented, the fact of the matter is that a great power, the United States, retreated in the face of an enemy numbering some 75,000 fighters armed with small arms and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs).

The day the last US transport plane took off from the Hamed Karzai International Airport in Kabul, with pictures of this being splashed on the front pages of newspapers around the world, US President Joe Biden delivered remarks from the state dining room at the White House in Washington.

In a lengthy and a robust defence of his decision to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan, Biden stressed that he had had only two options: either to leave Afghanistan as promised or to stay and face the consequences, namely escalation on the part of the Taliban.

He had chosen to leave, he said, because staying any longer would not have served US national interests. He underlined the fact that his country had gone to war against the Taliban in 2001 because the September 11 2001 attacks on New York and Washington had been planned by Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan. He went on to say that US forces had killed the mastermind behind these attacks, Osama Bin Laden, in May 2011, and suggested that this act should have put an end to the US mission in Afghanistan.

Biden also said that the assumption in the US administration that the Afghan army, trained by the US and equipped over the last 20 years, would be a strong adversary in the civil wars with the Taliban was not accurate. Another inaccurate assumption was that the Afghan government would be able to hold on to power for a period beyond the military drawdown in August this year.

It is hard to imagine that a great power like the US after 20 years of boots and intelligence agents on the ground throughout Afghanistan could have entertained such inaccurate assumptions.

Two major points stand out from the remarks delivered by Biden. The first is that the US will not relent in fighting terrorism anywhere in the world and will do this by acquiring over-the-horizon capabilities. The second, more related to US global strategy in the 21st century, is that the threats to the US have changed.

Biden brought up the threats posed by both China and Russia to US interests in his remarks, stressing that the US was engaged in a serious competition with China. As far as Russia is concerned, he said that

Washington was dealing with challenges on multiple fronts with Russia. Other threats to US national interests include both cyberattacks and nuclear proliferation, he said.

Biden did not articulate a coherent strategy on Afghanistan and neighbouring countries, especially Pakistan which has been a major strategic player in Afghanistan, and with the Taliban. If there is one country that can claim to have credible influence on the Taliban, it is Pakistan. But for tactical reasons Islamabad has always denied that it wields influence over the Taliban.

The US withdrawal from Afghanistan has created a serious power vacuum in South and Central Asia. Moreover, the fact that the economic and financial situation in Afghanistan is not promising for the foreseeable future does not augur well for security and stability inside Afghanistan and beyond its borders.

The most important question now relates to how the international community will deal with the Taliban and whether the leading powers will recognise the groups rule. Many countries, including the US, have indicated that they will judge the Taliban not by their words but by their actions.

The UN Security Council convened on 30 August to discuss the situation in Afghanistan and went on to adopt UN Security Council Resolution 2593, which demands that Afghan territory not be used to threaten or attack any other country or to shelter or train terrorists. It reiterated the importance of combating terrorism in Afghanistan and noted the commitments made by the Taliban in this respect. It also reaffirmed the importance of upholding human rights, including those of women, children and minorities.

It called on all the parties in Afghanistan to seek an inclusive negotiated settlement, with full, equal and meaningful participation of women that responds to the desire of Afghans to sustain and build on Afghanistans gains over the last 20 years in adherence to the rule of law.

The resolution provides a road map for the international community and the various political forces in Afghanistan, principally the Taliban, to manage peacefully the difficult period of transition from 20 years of some form of US protectorate over the country to a functioning state and government such that the country does not relive the insecurity and instability that predated the US war in Afghanistan.

At the time of writing, Germany is to host, on 8 September, a ministerial meeting on Afghanistan that will be attended by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and European foreign ministers. This will be the first international meeting on Afghanistan after the US withdrawal from the country. It is expected to reaffirm a commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 2593.

As far as Egypt is concerned, there has not been any official reaction to the events that unfolded in Afghanistan last month. This wait-and-see attitude could last for some time. For the time being, I would think that Egypt supports UN Security Council Resolution 2593, with a special emphasis on two principles.

Firstly, Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for terrorist groups or a launching pad for terrorist attacks against foreign countries. Secondly, it should not welcome leaders or members of the Muslim Brotherhood who will leave, or have already left Turkey after its rapprochement with Egypt.

* The writer is former assistant foreign minister.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 9 September, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly.

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Egypt becomes 32nd member of Africa Finance Corporation



Doaa A.Moneim, , Thursday 9 Sep 2021



The corporation expects to invest over 1 billion in Egypt



Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) announced Egypt as its 32nd member state, AFC said on Thursday.



With the increasing importance of public-private partnerships in advancing the African continent, and Egypt in particular, we are pleased to accede to the membership of a renowned and trusted pan-African institution like Africa Finance Corporation, said Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly.



Madbouly added that the government is already in discussions with AFC on pipeline projects, some of which include supporting COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing, working closely with the Ministry of Transportation to fund the high speed train, the Cairo monorail projects, as well as establishing a collaboration with the Sovereign Fund of Egypt (SFE) to fund renewable projects. "We are looking forward to implementing these projects in line with the countrys Vision 2030," he added.



AFC has already invested over $100 million in infrastructure projects in Egypt, including the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation and Carbon Holdings, a petrochemicals conglomerate.



The corporation has also identified a further $600 million worth of projects across renewables, natural gas, as well as the transport and logistics sectors, expecting to invest over $1 billion in Egypt in total.



Egypts accession expands AFCs footprint in North Africa, after Morocco had joined in June 2021.



As a member, Egypt will enjoy benefits including increased investment allocation, preferred access to AFCs structuring and lending solutions, reduced debt costs for projects, and access to advisory and project development services.



In July, AFC President and CEO Samaila Zubairu and a delegation of senior AFC executives visited Egypt to meet with Prime Minister Madbouly and Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait, who inked the instrument of adherence to AFC membership. They also met with Minister of Planning and Economic Development Hala El-Said.



We had several meetings with key government stakeholders in Cairo and their urgency in driving the next phase of development is consistent with AFCs support for resilient and sustainable infrastructure that will benefit not only Egypt but the entire continent, Zubairu stated.



I look forward to working with our partners to strengthen manufacturing on the continent, in particular the production of Covid-19 vaccines, he added.



AFC was established in 2007 with the aim of fostering private sector-led infrastructure investment across Africa.



It is the second highest investment multilateral financial institution in Africa, having an approach that combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development and risk capital to address Africas infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.



AFC invests in high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications.



The corporation has invested over $8.7 billion in projects in 35 countries across Africa since its inception.



https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/422714.aspx
New Delhi:

Stargazers are in for a treat as the glowing Christmas comet, the 46/Wirtanen, will fly nearby today, and will only be 7.2 million miles from Earth. People may even be able to see it without a telescope on Sunday, NASA said. This makes it the 10th-closest distance a comet has come to our planet since the 1950s. According to NASA, Comet Wirtanen is a member of the Jupiter family of comets, meaning its farthest point from the sun is near the orbit of the great gas planet.



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Although the comet known as 46P/Wirtanen will approach at a distant 11.4 million kilometres or 30 lunar distances from Earth, its still a fairly rare opportunity. Comet Wirtanen has already been visible in larger amateur telescopes, and while the brightness of comets is notoriously difficult to predict, there is the possibility that during its close approach comet Wirtanen could be visible with binoculars or to the naked eye, NASA said in a statement on Friday.

This will be the closest comet Wirtanen has come to Earth for centuries and the closest it will come to Earth for centuries, said Paul Chodas, manager of the Centre for Near-Earth Object Studies at NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. This could be one of the brightest comets in years, offering astronomers an important opportunity to study a comet up close with ground-based telescopes, both optical and radar, he added.

In a bid to take advantage of the close approach, astronomers led by the University of Maryland are planning an observation campaign.

For all the Latest Science News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps.
New Delhi:

The Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal on Saturday refused permission for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)s proposed Rath Yatra, citing intelligence reports of possible communal violence in areas where the party was planning to take out the yatra ahead of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled next year. BJP president Amit Shah was to kickstart the campaign titled Save Democracy Rally from the Cooch Behar district in North Bengal on Friday, from Kakdwip in the South 24 Parganas district on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district on December 14. The rath yatra was scheduled to cover all 42 Lok Sabha constituencies in the state, where the party aims to bag over 22 seats in the general elections next year. The BJP currently has two Lok Sabha seats in West Bengal --- Asansol and Darjeeling.

In a letter to state BJP chief Dilip Ghosh, the West Bengal government said it was unable to allow the yatra as intelligence reports indicated that in several districts, organisations with overtly communal agenda, such as the RSS, the Bajrang Dal and the VHP, would actively join the yatra. There is a grave apprehension of major breach of peace... during and after the yatra, the state government said in the letter.

Reacting to the development, BJP general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya criticised the Trinamool Congress governments decision and said his party would move a higher court against it, while Ghosh termed the decision totally undemocratic.

The BJP moved a division bench of the Calcutta High Court after a single-judge bench of Justice Tapabrata Chakraborty refused permission to the party to hold the yatra. The division bench had on December 7 directed the West Bengal chief secretary, the home secretary and the director general of police to hold a meeting with three representatives of the BJP by December 12 and take a decision on the rath yatra by December 14.

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Following the meeting between the two sides, state government officials had told the BJP that the decision will be conveyed to them by Saturday.

In the letter to the BJP, the West Bengal government said, The areas proposed to be covered by the yatra are, because of publicity and propaganda, gradually turning into communally sensitive pockets. Intelligence reports indicate that public perception is that the religious overtones of the yatra will be turned into communal propaganda.

In the letter, the government has mentioned that intelligence inputs were obtained from district magistrates, commissioners of police, superintendents of police and the assessment of the Intelligence Bureau on the routes proposed by the BJP for the yatra.

The large number of convoys in the Yatra would create a chaotic situation and cause traffic disruption on arterial roads and highways, the government said.

Furthermore, during the period cited, major festivals and events are scheduled, and it required a heavy deployment of the resources of the government, including the police force, the letter read.

According to the yatra schedule submitted by the BJP, there were plans to hold 158 meetings across West Bengal and the three segments of yatra would cover religious sites. The yatras would continue simultaneously for at least 34 days.

The government said, We are therefore of the opinion that, for the reasons which have been elaborately mentioned... it is not possible to allow the yatra as proposed by the BJP.

The state government, however, said permission for any particular meeting would be decided solely by the district authorities on a case-to-case basis.

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Therefore, for each meeting proposed, the BJP may apply afresh before the relevant district authorities with all required details, it said.

BJP national president Amit Shah was to kickstart the campaign titled Save Democracy Rally from Cooch Behar district on December 7, from Kakdwip in South 24 Parganas district on December 9, and from Tarapith temple in Birbhum district on December 14.

The rath Yatras were to cover all the 42 Lok Sabha constituencies of West Bengal.

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New Delhi:

KM Ashokan, the father of Hadiya, the 26-year-old Kerala woman who converted to Islam and married a Muslim man in 2016, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He also pledged his support for the partys ongoing stir against the Supreme Court verdict on Sabarimala temple. BJP general secretary B Gopalakrishnan gave former serviceman KM Ashokan the membership of the party on Monday.

In March, the Supreme Court had set aside a Kerala High Court order annulling Adiya (formerly called Akila Ashokan)s marriage with a Muslim man, Shafin Jahan. Ashokan had approached the top court alleging that his daughter was a victim of love jihad.

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After joining the BJP, Ashokan said that it was the only political outfit which was working towards safeguarding the Hindu belief. I was a Communist Party follower since my childhood. But of late the party is playing dirty vote-bank politics eyeing minority votes. I failed to understand if somebody talks about Hindus he turns communal in no time, he said adding he will actively participate in the ongoing stir in Sabarimala.

Like many Hindus of Kerala, I am also torn between my belief and law. I personally believe customs and traditions should not come under the preview of courts. Let religious scholars and other decide on such issues, he said as quoted by a leading daily.

The Kerala High Court had in May last year annulled the marriage terming it as an instance of 'love jihad', following which Jahan had approached the apex court. The matter came to the fore when Jahan had challenged the high court order annulling the marriage and sent Hadiya to her parents' custody.

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The Supreme Court had in August last year asked the National Investigation Agency to probe the case of Hadiyas conversion and marriage, as the agency claimed a "pattern" was emerging in Kerala. On November 27, 2017, the top court had freed Hadiya from her parents' custody and sent her to college to pursue her studies, even as she had pleaded that she should be allowed to go with her husband. On March 8, the Supreme Court had set aside the Kerala High Court order annulling her marriage to Jahan.

Hadiya is pursuing her mandatory house surgeon internship at the Sivaraj Homeopathic Medical College and Research Institute in Tamil Nadu's Salem district for completing her Bachelor in Homeopathy Medicine and Surgery (BHMS) course.

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New Delhi:

Former Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Pravin Togadia on Saturday held the wrong policies of the Narendra Modi government for farmers' suicides in the country and also said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should stop considering the farmers as a "vote-bank". Togadia, who floated Antar-Rashtriya Hindu Parishad (AHP), took part in a 20-km march --- from Dehgam to Gandhinagar in support of the farmers --- which was organised by the Rashtriya Kisan Parishad (RKP), an AHP wing.



"The government has betrayed and tortured the farmers to the limits. Enough is enough. Farmers are being crushed under a mountain of debt and are committing suicides due to wrong policies of the government. This government should resign if they cannot do justice to the farming community", said Togadia as quoted by news agencies. He also the prime minister of "betraying" farmers by "not keeping" promises.

Read More | Chhattisgarh Assembly Election Result 2018 LIVE | Who will be next Chief Minister?



"Modi had promised that recommendations made by the Swaminathan Commission for farmers in its report will be implemented in toto. But, as usual, he betrayed farmers on this promise too. The government has also fooled farmers in the name of Minimum Support Price (MSP) declared recently", the former VHP leader said as quoted by news agency PTI.



Commenting on the problems faced by the farmers in Gujarat, Togadia alleged the BJP government is favouring industries over farmers by supplying them with water and electricity. "Though a canal passes from Dehgam, local farmers do not get water from it. On the other hand, industries are getting water generously. Crop insurance is a scheme to fill the pockets of some insurance companies. If this continues, such protests would take place across the country", he said.

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Togadia pressed for several demands such as a total debt waiver for farmers, a separate budget for agriculture, better MSP, and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendation and said that, "If the government fails to act now, farmers would teach a lesson to the ruling BJP in the 2019 polls", he said.

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New Delhi:

Kesar or saffron as it is popular called is a wonder spice for complete rejuvenation and refreshing health and beauty. Of fine red and yellow threads and sweet fragrance, the wonder spice is an elixir of life. Its many properties include medicinal ones for great health and beauty. Owing to its several use and benefits for overall wellness of the body and the mind, and the painstaking labour of harvesting and processing it for consumption, kesar remains one of the most expensive spices in the world. Currently, it is priced around Rs 4 lakh a kg in India's Kashmir. While the commercial production in India is small, Iran is said to be one of the biggest producers of kesar. Over 90 per cent of global production comes from Iran. However, the ancient use of kesar in food as a complete wellness spice is traced to Greece. Today, many wellness experts and scientists have found more of its goodness in different forms. Hence, its use for health and beauty today has become a common practice across the world.

What is Kesar or saffron?

Kesar is produced from the red and yellow thread-like stigmas and styles of the flower which biological name is crocus sativus or saffron crocus. The flowers bloom in Autumn and gives off a sweetly intoxicating fragrance. When the flowers are in full bloom, the stigmas and styles are freshly and carefully picked, collected and dried. The crimson sun-dried form is used as a flavouring and colouring agent in food and as dye in cloth. It is said that the stigmas from a freshly picked flower yields an average 30 mg of fresh saffron or 7 mg dried ones. In fact, it takes thousands kesar flowers to produce a single gram of saffron.

Five Health Benefits of Kesar

Dried kesar or saffron has high carbohydrate content and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Owing to its high nutritional content and medicinal properties, the spice is used in food as seasoning or flavouring and to treat several ailments and health problems.

Kesar is used to treat common ailments such as pain, cough and cold. Saffron works as a pain reliever and an expectorant. Its intake helps to clear the phlegm in the throat. Kesar helps to treat asthma. Consumption of kesar helps to breathe better and treats chest congestion as it clears the air passage. Kesar treats stress and insomnia. Saffron works as an aromatherapy. It completely rejuvenates the body and mind. It busts the stress and induces a good and sound sleep. Kesar treats flatulence: The intake of saffron helps to reduce intestinal gas and treats bloating sensation. It also helps to treat heartburn caused by high acidity. Kesar treats Alzheimers: While there is no cure for Alzheimers, consumption of kesar can help arrest the onset of the disease and other neurological disorders. Kesar also helps to slow the progress of Alzheimers. Since Alzheimers also causes depression and memory loss, the resultant effect of consuming kesar is interrelated. It is said to help treat depression and boost the brain activity.

Five Beauty Benefits of Kesar

Kesar boosts ageless beauty: Kesar, apart from being used in food, is also used as a beauty ingredient. The rich content of vitamins and minerals in kesar or saffron is said to slow down the aging process as the intake of it improves the overall health condition. Kesar for glowing skin: Many believe that kesar is beneficial for the skin in many ways. The antioxidants present in it is said to treat several skin infections and beautify the skin. Hence, regular intake of kesar can help provide fairer and glowing skin. Kesar treats acne: The medicinal properties in kesar is said to help treat acne. Since it is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial, applying a paste of it on the affected spot twice or thrice a week can help rid acne from the face. Kesar rids scars and wounds: Kesar is said to be a wonder spice for blemish free skin. Apart from removing acne, application of saffron or kesar paste on wounds speeds up healing and helps remove scars effectively. Kesar treats dry skin: There are several kesar beauty recipes to boost the skin condition. One being, a mix of lemon juice in kesar paste. Application of it on the skin helps to tone and brighten dry skin. It also cures cracked lips.

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It is expensive, but if you get a hold of this wonder spice, do not waste it. Make the most of kesar for great health and beauty. Stay fit and beautiful.

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New Delhi:

The Tuticorin Sterlite Plant which was shut by the Tamil Nadu government over the alleged pollution after the killing of 13 people in police firing, is likely to be reopened as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Saturday set aside the state governments order. In May this year, the Tamil Nadu government had ordered to close the Vedantas copper smelter plant in Tuticorin (Thoothukudi) permanently after the killing of at least 13 people who were demanding the closure of the plant over alleged pollution.

Setting aside the shutdown order by Tamil Nadu court, the NGT directed the administration to pass a fresh order of renewal of consent within three weeks. The green court also ordered the company to spend Rs 100 crore over the next three years on the welfare of inhabitants of the area.

Also Read | Tamil Nadu government orders permanent closure of Sterlite Copper plant

However, the Tamil Nadu government expressed their reservations about the green court's decision and said that it will move the Supreme Court against the NGT order. Tamil Nadu cabinet minister for environment and pollution control, KC Karuppanan, said, CM Edappaadi K Palaniswami is firm on the closure of Sterlite."

On May 28, the Tamil Nadu government had issued a Government Order (GO) and directed the state Pollution Control Board to seal Vedanta groups Sterlite Copper plant permanently. The government had cited Constitutions directive principles of state policy (Article 48-A) enjoining protection of environment and provisions of the Water Act, 1974, to order the permanent closure of the copper factory "in the larger public interest".

Also Read | Tamil Nadu: CM hands over appointment letters to Tuticorin firing victims kin

The NGT order came after a committee appointed by the tribunal informed it that Vedanta was not given any notice or opportunity to explain before the closure of the plant. The Vedanta had offered to invest an additional sum of Rs 100 for the welfare of people, including construction of schools, hospitals and supply of drinking water.

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Riyadh:

Saudi Arabia has rejected as interference a US Senate resolution to end American military support for a Riyadh-led war in Yemen, and another holding its crown prince responsible for the murder of critic Jamal Khashoggi. The kingdom condemns the latest position of the US Senate that was based on unsubstantiated allegations and rejects the blatant interference in its internal affairs, the foreign ministry said in a statement released by the official Saudi Press Agency.

Though largely symbolic, the US Senate vote on Thursday dealt a fresh warning to President Donald Trump, who has staunchly backed the Saudi regime despite a global uproar over the Yemen conflict and the murder of journalist Khashoggi.

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On the Yemen measure, which more broadly attacks the presidents prerogative to launch military action, 49 Democrats or their allies voted in favour, along with seven Republicans, while another three Republicans abstained.

The Senate also approved a resolution condemning Khashoggis murder and calling Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabias de facto ruler, responsible for it.

The Saudi ministry warned that the kingdom would not tolerate any disrespect of its rulers.

This position by the US Senate sends the wrong messages to all those who want to cause a rift in Saudi-US relationship, the ministry said.

The kingdom hopes that it is not drawn into domestic political debates in the US to avoid any... significant negative impact on this important strategic relationship. The Senate resolution acknowledged the US-Saudi ties were important but called on Riyadh to moderate its increasingly erratic foreign policy.

The resolutions cannot be debated in the House of Representatives before January, and would likely be vetoed in any case by Trump.

But the Senate votes send a strong message to the White House over anger on both sides of the aisle towards Riyadh.

Khashoggi, a Saudi contributor to the Washington Post, was killed on October 2 shortly after entering the kingdoms consulate in Istanbul in what Riyadh called a rogue operation.

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The murder has tarnished Riyadhs international reputation, and Western countries including the United States, France and Canada have placed sanctions on nearly 20 Saudi nationals. UN chief Antonio Guterres on Sunday called for a credible probe into the murder.

Anger at the human cost of the war in Yemen has also prompted a harder line in Congress about the US militarys role in backing Saudi-led coalition strikes against Huthi rebels.

Since the coalition launched its campaign in 2015, the conflict has killed nearly 10,000 people, according to the World Health Organization. But some rights groups believe the toll to be far higher.

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New Delhi:

Bhupesh Baghel, Chhattisgarh Congress president, has been named as the new chief minister on Sunday. Baghel is credited with helping the Congress rise from the ashes of the deadly Naxal attack that wiped out the top party leadership of the state five years ago. Baghel, 57, is known for his political acumen with strong leadership qualities.

The decision to make him the chief minister was taken at the Congress Legislature Party (CLP) meeting held in Raipur on Sunday. He will take oath at 5 PM on Monday, AICC observer Mallikarjun Kharge said.

In the two-phase polls that took place on November 12 and November 20, the Congress had romped home to power in the state after 15 years with a two-third majority, winning 68 seats in the 90-member House.

The BJP, which was in power since 2003, was reduced to 15 seats.

Bhupesh Baghel: Heres all you need to know

# Baghel was born on August 23, 1961, in a farmer's family in Durg district. His political career started in 1980s. He was first elected as an MLA from Patan seat in 1993 and then consecutively in 1998 and 2003 from the same constituency.

# In the 2008 Assembly polls, he suffered defeat at the hands of BJP's Vijay Baghel, following which he was given ticket from Raipur for the 2009 Lok Sabha election, which he also lost to the saffron party's Ramesh Bais.

# He bounced back in the state in 2013 by winning from the Patan Assembly seat.

# After the formation of Chhattisgarh in 2000, he served as a revenue minister in the Ajit Jogi government (2000-2003).

# Baghel hails from the influential Kurmi (Other Backward Class) community, which accounts for around 14 per cent of the state population of around 2.5 crore.

# Baghel became the state Congress chief in October 2014, nearly a year-and-a-half after a Naxal attack in Sukma district in May, 2013, in which many of the party's senior leaders, including V C Shukla and then party chief Nand Kumar Patel, were killed. Shukla had died days after the attack.

# In 2013, the Congress, which had already dealt a blow, suffered another defeat in the assembly elections. It was then the party decided to entrust the task to revive the Congress' fortunes in Chhattisgarh and he didnt disappoint.

# However, things were not easy for him. The infighting within the Congress was at its peak with a group, led by former chief minister Ajit Jogi, having differences with several other party leaders.

# The state Congress unit expelled Ajit Jogi's son, Amit Jogi, from the party in 2015-16 after an audio tape purportedly revealed that the Antagarh Assembly seat by-poll in 2014 was fixed

# Later, Ajit Jogi, who was accused of acting as a 'B team' of Raman Singh, also quit the Congress.

# Despite the setbacks and differences, Baghel, along with then Leader of Opposition in the Assembly TS Singh Deo, continued to play a key role in mobilising and motivating Congress workers.

(With PTI inputs)
United Nations:

The UN General Assembly on Monday condemned North Korea's "systematic, widespread and gross violations of human rights" and its diversion of resources into pursing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles over the welfare of its people. It noted "with concern" that over 10 million North Koreans are estimated to be undernourished and that there is "an unacceptably high prevalence of chronic and acute malnutrition" in the reclusive northeast Asian nation.



ALSO READ | Saudi Arabia slams US Senate vote as 'interference'

The resolution, sponsored by Japan and the European Union, was adopted by consensus, though countries including Russia, China, Cuba and Venezuela disassociated themselves from it. Many expressed opposition to assembly resolutions singling out specific countries and said the Geneva-based Human Rights Council should deal with rights issues.

North Korea's UN ambassador, Kim Song, said his country "categorically rejects" the resolution, calling it "a product of (a) political plot and hostile forces."

He accused Japan of "provoking confrontation" with North Korea "by going back against the main trend in (the) Korean peninsula" when delicate political negotiations are underway.

Since North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reached out to South Korea and the United States early this year, the two Korean leaders have met several times and Kim held a historic summit with President Donald Trump with another one expected in the new year. But there has been no significant progress on Kim's commitment to nuclear disarmament, and as a result no lifting of UN or US sanctions against North Korea.

The resolution's approval followed the US failure to get enough votes to discuss North Korea's human rights record in the Security Council a week ago. It had succeeded for the last four years, and diplomats said the US is likely to try again in the new year when five new members join the council.

A statement released Monday by North Korea's UN Mission noted opposition to the US move and asserted again that the Security Council "is neither a place for discussion on any human rights issue nor a platform where a human rights issue is politicized to flare up confrontation."

Whatever the change in the Security Council's composition, North Korea said it shouldn't be used as a platform "where U.S.'s high-handedness and arbitrary practice would prevail."

The General Assembly resolution adopted Monday expresses "very serious concern" at reports of torture, detention, rape, public executions, the imposition of the death penalty, the absence of the rule of law, and "collective punishments extending up to three generations."

It also expressed concern at forced labor in North Korea and its "extensive system of political prison camps where a vast number of persons are deprived of their liberty and subjected to deplorable conditions" as well as "all-pervasive and severe restrictions, both online and offline, on the freedoms of thought, conscience, religion or belief, opinion and expression, peaceful assembly and association."

The resolution condemns "the systematic abduction, denial of repatriation and subsequence enforced disappearance of persons, including those from other countries, on a large scale."



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It "acknowledges" the findings of the U.N. commission of inquiry on North Korea in 2014. The commission said testimony and information it gathered "provide reasonable grounds to believe that crimes against humanity have been committed in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, pursuant to policies established at the highest level of the state for decades and by institutions under the effective control of its leadership."

The General Assembly strongly urged North Korea "to immediately put an end to the systematic, widespread and grave violations of human rights" by fully implementing UN resolutions and recommendations including closing prison camps and releasing all political prisoners.

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New Delhi:

As many as six people were killed and five critically injured in a boiler blast in the Nirani Sugars at Mudhol in Karnataka's Bagalkot district on Sunday morning, reported news agencyA ANI.

Visuals from Nirani sugars in Mudhol, Bagalkot where 6 people died and 5 were critically injured in a boiler blast earlier today. pic.twitter.com/PlzlwjCvkd a ANI (@ANI) December 16, 2018

According to reports, the incident took place when about 10 people were working in the distillery unit of the sugar factory. The intensity of the blast was so powerful that the three-floor building completely collapsed. The deceased are yet to be identified as their faces have suffered serious burn injuries.A A

(Details are awaited)
New Delhi:

The demolition drive of the Muzaffarpur shelter home where inmates were allegedly sexually abused began on Thursday, according to officials. Five-member team headed by executive engineer Suresh Kumar Sinha carried out the drive. The shelter home was run by 'Seva Sankalp Evam Vikas Samiti' which is an NGO run by convicted Brajesh Thakur, the prime accused in the sex scandal.

Bihar: Process to destroy Muzaffarpur shelter home begins under Magistrate's supervision. Over 30 girls living in it were sexually abused according to an audit report by Tata Institute of Social Sciences. Main accused Brajesh Thakur is in jail in connection with the incident. pic.twitter.com/hIo8qaeTCr  ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2018

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Orders for razing the building were issued by the municipal authorities last month after it was found that the structure was raised in violation of the approved plan, officials said. Municipal Commissioner Sanjay Dubey has set up the panel to look after the demolition job.

The building was vacated on Tuesday and shelter home was closed. It may take a few days to demolish the building completely as is located in a narrow alley, sources said.

The scandal at the shelter home came to light earlier this year in a social audit by the Mumbai-based Tata Institute of Social Sciences, which said that over 30 girls living there were sexually abused.

After the shelter home scandal came to light, Thakur and others were booked on May 30. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently probing the case. So far, 17 people have been arrested in connection to the same.

Bihar Social Welfare Minister Manju Verma had resigned following the Muzaffarpur case, when it came to light that her husband, Chandrashekhar Verma, had spoken to Thakur several times between January and June.

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New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Mumbai on Tuesday and lay the foundation stone for two key Metro rail projects and a mass housing scheme in Kalyan. The two metro corridors include the Thane-Bhiwandi-Kalyan stretch (Metro 5), a 24.9-km corridor that will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 8,416 crore, and the Dahisar-Mira-Bhayander line (Metro 9) that will run 10.3km and is to be built at an estimated cost of Rs 6,607 crore. The construction will begin in March 2019.

PM Modi will also launch a housing scheme comprising 90,000 units under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Lower Income Groups (LIG). Officials at the City Industrial and Development Corporation (CIDCO) said the project will be built in the Taloja node, around railway stations like Juinagar, Sanpada, Kharkopar and Bamandongri, and some bus terminals.

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Officials at the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) said the Metro 5 corridor, with 17 stations, is expected to carry 2.29 lakh commuters daily when it will be inaugurated in 2021. The elevated Metro 9 corridor, comprising eight stations, was expected to be completed by 2022 and will be integrated with the Dahisar-Andheri (Metro 7) corridor, they added.

Of the 90,000 houses, 53,000 will be built for the EWS category and the remaining 37,000 for LIG category. A large number of houses is likely to be built in the Taloja node. We will complete this project in three phases within three years, said a CIDCO official.

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Meanwhile, the Uttar Bharatiya Mahapanchayat will protest against the prime ministers visit by showing black flags. The members claimed that the central government had not undertaken many development work in Uttar Pradesh despite PM Modi being elected from the Varanasi Lok Sabha constituency. The Mahapanchayat announced the move after its interaction with Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray on December 2. He had urged the north Indians to question their leaders for the lack of development in Uttar Pradesh.

PM Modi will later proceed to Pune, where he will lay the foundation stone for the third Metro line between Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar, being implemented by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority on a public-private partnership basis. The Rs 8,313-crore 23-km long third metro line in Pune between Hinjewadi and Shivajinagar will connect the busy information technology part with Shivajinagar, where the other two metro lines will also join. PM Modi will fly to Delhi from Pune on Tuesday night, an official said.

(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi:

Indian national Hamid Nihal Ansari, who was released from a Pakistani jail on Tuesday, crossed the Attari-Wagah border to reach India, six years after he was detained by intelligence agencies for entering the country illegally reportedly to meet a girl he had befriended online. Ansari, 33, was met at the border by members of his family in an emotional reunion.

Ansari was released from the Pakistani prison after a court-mandated jail-term came to an end. Though his jail term ended last week, he was not able to leave for India as his legal documents were not ready. On Thursday, the Peshawar High Court gave the federal government a month deadline to complete his repatriation process.

#WATCH: Indian national Hamid Ansari crosses the Attari-Wagah border to reach India. He was lodged in a jail in Pakistan and was released today. pic.twitter.com/FYJAlAZGac  ANI (@ANI) December 18, 2018

Official sources told news agency PTI that the release became possible due to relentless pressure from India on Pakistan. According to the sources, India issued 96 note verbales to Pakistan seeking consular access and clarity on the charges against Ansari, on which India received no satisfactory response.

Hamid Nihal Ansari likely to be released today: https://t.co/G1WrcaD56S via @YouTube  News Nation (@NewsNationTV) December 18, 2018

The sources added that with his jail term was coming to an end on December 16, New Delhi had mounted pressure on Islamabad at multiple levels in the past few weeks, seeking to ensure Ansari's release and quick repatriation to India.

Ansari had gone missing after he was taken into custody by Pakistani intelligence agencies and local police in Kohat in 2012 and finally in reply to a habeas corpus petition filed by his mother, Fauzia Ansari, the high court was informed that he was in custody of the Pakistan Army and was being tried by a military court.

A two-judge Peshawar High Court bench, comprising Justice Roohul Amin and Justice Qalandar Ali Khan, on Thursday heard an appeal filed by Ansari through his lawyer Qazi Muhammad Anwar.

Anwar informed the bench that both the Ministry of Interior and authorities of prison, where he was lodged, were completely silent about his release and deportation to India.

After hearing this, Justice Khan asked the Additional Attorney General to explain how would they keep the prisoner in jail after completion of his term.

(With PTI inputs)





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New Delhi:

Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad said Monday his outfit would support parties such as the Bahujan Samaj Party in the upcoming general election. "We will not allow the Congress and the BJP rule alternatively (in the country)... The third front will rise and we will strengthen the Bahujan movement. We will also make the BSP go back to 'Bahujan hitaya' from 'Sarvjan hitaya'," Azad, who is also known as Ravan, said at the 'Agenda Aaj Tak' event in New Delhi.

Asked about which party the Bhim Army would support in the 2019 parliamentary polls, Azad said, "There are the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Uttar Pradesh, Tejashwi (Yadav's) party (RJD) in Bihar, (and) Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD). I will find others in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh."

The Dalit leader said he would unite the Bahujan parties in the run up to the Lok Sabha election and remove the Narendra Modi government from power at the Centre. The Bhim Army chief denied that he was causing any "split" in the Dalit politics of the country.

"I am not involved with politics at present. I am trying to strengthen the Bahujan movement across the country," Azad said, adding that he was focused on floating a pan-Indian students' wing in the coming days. The young Dalit leader accused the BJP of doing caste-based politics of the "highest" level.

Azad was arrested in connection with the caste violence in his home district of Saharanpur in Uttar Pradesh last year. He was released from jail in September.

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New Delhi :

The Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has stitched a pre-poll alliance for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh, according to sources. Ajit Singh's Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) will also be a part of the anti-BJP alliance which excludes the Congress party. Akhilesh Yadav-led SP and Mayawati-led BSP have also finalised the seat-sharing formula for next year's general elections. According to the sources, the Samajwadi Party will contest 37 seats while the Bahujan Samaj Party will fight on 38 of the 80 Lok Sabha constituencies. Three seats - Baghpat, Mathura, Kairana - will go to Ajit Singh's RLD. Singh is likely to contest from his stronghold Baghpat while his son Jayant Choudhary will once again contest from Mathura. BJP's Hema Malini had defeated Jayant from Mathura constituency in 2014.

The alliance, however, will not field its candidates on Amethi and Raebareli - the traditional seats of Congress chief Rahul Gandhi and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi. Earlier, the Congress party was also supposed to be the part of the grand alliance in Uttar Pradesh to keep the BJP out of the power. However, the Congress party was not happy with the number of seats Akhilesh and Mayawati were offering to it.

Also Read | Opposition unity in peril after Stalin's pitch for Rahul Gandhi as PM in 2019

Seeing the Congress party's poor track record in Uttar Pradesh during the past few years, the SP and the BSP were not so keen to include the 'Grand Old Party' in the alliance and were offering only Gandhi bastions seats. Also, Mayawati and Akhilesh were not happy with the Congress party's announcement that Rahul Gandhi will be the party's prime ministerial candidate for 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Meanwhile, denying such reports, Mayawati's top aid Satish Mishra told NDTV, "Till now whatever has come today in the newspaper or on TV, we don't know from where it has come, who is the source. There has been nothing like this, there are no discussions at this point".

The Opposition's bid to form an anti-BJP federal front hit roadblock after DMK president MK Stalin proposed Congress chief Rahul Gandhi's name for the Oppositions PM face. Opposition parties were of the view that the issue should only be addressed post-election. Reacting to Stalin's proposal, Akhilesh Yadav said that it was the personal opinion of the DMK chief and the alliance was not of the same view.

"People are unhappy with the BJP. Telangana CM, Mamataji and Sharad Pawarji had attempted to bring together all leaders to form an alliance. If someone is giving his opinion, it isn't necessary that alliance has the same opinion," ANI quoted Yadav as saying.

In 2014, the BJP had swept the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh by winning 71 of the 80 seats with a vote share of 42.30 per cent. Its ally Apna Dal also won 2 seats with almost 1 per cent of vote share. The Samajwadi Party and the Congress had won just five and two seats, respectively, while the BSP failed to open its account. With 22.20 per cent vote share, the Samajwadi Party came number two while the BSP and Congress were number three and four with 19.60 and 7.50 per cent vote share, respectively. The SP and the BSP together had 41.80 per cent of the vote share.

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In 2017, the BJP had again decimated all the parties in Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections by winning 312 of the 403 seats with a vote share of 39.7 per cent. Its allies Apna Dal and SBSP had won 9 and 4 seats respectively. The Apna Dal had got the vote share of 1 per cent, while the SBSP was able to get 0.7 per cent of the vote share. Together, the BJP-led NDA had received the support of 41.40 per cent of the voters. The SP had won 47 seats with a vote share of 22 per cent. The Congress in an alliance with the Akhilesh Yadav-led party had won only 7 seats with a vote share of 6.2 per cent. The BSP was able to win only 19 seats with a vote share of 22.2 per cent. The Ajit Singh-led RLD had won a single seat with a vote share of 1.8 per cent. If we add the vote shares of the three parties excluding the Congress then we will get the figure of 46 per cent, which was approximately more than 4.5 per cent of the BJP-led alliance's total vote share.

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New Delhi:

Union minister Ramdas Athawale has explained why Rs 15 lakh each, as promised by Narendra Modi before 2014 Lok Sabha polls, were never transferred into peoples bank accounts, saying it has been delayed due to some technical issues at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

In the run-up to 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister, had promised to bring back black money kept abroad within 100 days if he became the prime minister. During the campaigns, Modi had promised that every poor person in the country will get Rs 15 lakh in his account if all the black money was brought back. Modi went on to become the PM as the BJP registered a landslide victory. However, there has been no such transfer of money happened till now.

The Opposition parties, including the Congress, have mocked Modi and his BJP-led NDA government for failing to fulfilling the promise.

Party chief Amit Shah later said it was a "jumla" or election gimmick, which was seen as a self-goal that laid the party open to further ridicule.

Athawale said the money will come into peoples accounts slowly, not in a single instalment. He also blamed the RBI for delaying the process.

Rs 15 lakh will come slowly, not at a single time. We have asked for money from the RBI but they are not giving. So, the amount couldnt be collected. There are some technical issues, news agency ANI quoted Athawale as saying on Monday.

Ramdas also praised Modi for fulfilling most of the promises that he had made.

Narendra Modi is a very active Prime Minister. The Supreme Court has given a clean chit on Rafael's issue. All documents related to it have been submitted. Oppositions have no issue, they will all get wind out in three to four months. Narendra Modi will once again become the Prime Minister, he said.

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New Delhi:

At least three people were shot on Thursday evening when unidentified persons opened fireA on Trinamool Congress MLA Biswanath Dasas vehicle in West Bengal. Driver Selim Khan alias Babu and an associate of TMC MLA Saifuddin Khan were killed in the attack. Unidentified persons fired bullets at the Jaynagar petrol pump in South 24 ParganasA on the SUV for around five minutes before fleeing the spot, according to reports.

West Bengal: Three persons, including a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Safruddin Khan, shot dead by unidentified men at Jaynagar petrol pump in South 24 Parganas, yesterday. pic.twitter.com/dDiJbcNy2K a ANI (@ANI) December 13, 2018



"Three persons died on spot including my driver Babu Molla and associate Safiuddin Khan. It was clearly a planned attack and I was the target. I had a narrow escape because I suddenly changed my mind and got down at the party office. I have already spoken to my party leaders and the police. It is too early to say who is behind the attack,a the Indian Express quoted Biswanath Das as saying.A

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Paris:

Four family members of the gunman who went on a deadly shooting spree at a popular Christmas market in the French city of Strasbourg were released from custody on Sunday, the Paris prosecutors office said.

Three more people close to the attacker Cherif Chekatt, who was shot dead by the police on Thursday, were still being held, it said.

But his parents and two of his brothers were freed due to the lack of incriminating evidence at this stage, the prosecutors office added.

More than 700 French security forces had been hunting for 29-year-old Chekatt since Tuesday nights bloodshed, in which four people diedthe latest in a string of jihadist attacks to rock France.

Read More | Nations inch towards climate deal to realise Paris climate goals

Frances interior minister on Friday dismissed a claim by the Islamic State (IS) group that it was responsible for the attack.

Police have been focusing their investigation on whether Chekatt had any help in carrying out his attack or while on the run.

In an interview broadcast on Saturday evening, a man identified as Cherif Chekatts father said his son had become a follower of IS.

He would say Daesh is fighting for a just cause, the man, named as Abdelkrim Chekatt, told France 2 television, using the Arabic acronym for IS.

Also Read | Pakistan to complete fencing of 2,600-km-long Afghan border next year

I told him Forget about Daesh, dont listen to what they say. Dont you see the atrocities they commit? He added that he had had no knowledge of the attack.

If he had told me about his plans, I would have reported him to the police, that way he would have not killed anyone or been killed himself, the man said.

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New Delhi:

DMK president MK Stalins proposal to project Congress Rahul Gandhi as prime ministerial candidate has not only found a few takers within the ranks of the Opposition, but also didnt go down well with the BJP, with its party general secretary Ram Madhav asserting the PM's post was not vacant for another 10 years.

"We do not know if (any) other thing is cooking...no single party in country has the courage or stamina to take on prime minister Modi or the BJP," Madhav said, calling the opposition's unity efforts a "tamasha".

Targeting Stalin for his criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the government, the BJP leader said, "I pity some leaders...khud naam Stalin (a reference to Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin) hai... (and) he calls others fascists...We have seen the face of fascism in the state under the great DMK."

Speaking at an event organised to unveil a statue of his father and former Tamil Nadu chief minister K Karunanidhi in Chennai on Sunday, Stalin made a strong pitch for Rahul Gandhi as the prime ministerial candidate of the Opposition for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, saying the Gandhi scion had the ability to defeat the "fascist" Narendra Modi government.

"In 2018, on the occasion of unveiling Thalaivar Kalaignar statue, I propose, we will install a new prime minister in Delhi. We will build a new India, as the Son of Thalaivar Kalaignar, I propose the candidature of Rahul Gandhi from Tamil Nadu," Stalin said.

However, several Opposition leaders have expressed their reservations over Stalins suggestion. Leaders of the Samajwadi Party, the Telugu Desam Party, the Bahujan Samaj Party, the Trinamool Congress, the National Congress Party are understood to have reservations over naming any prime ministerial nominee for the Opposition alliance for the 2019 general elections.

Madhav said Stalin's proposal had not found resonance even within the parties the Congress wants in the proposed grand alliance.

Speaking on the Rafale deal, Madhav challenged the opposition to a debate in Parliament in the presence of all its members instead of seeking an "escape route" of a Joint Parliamentary Committee, which would comprise only 25-30 members.

"We are challenging the Opposition. If they are ready, let us debate it (the Rafale issue) in Parliament. They cannot take an escape route in the name of JPC and try and continue their propaganda of lies....this shall not be allowed."

"JPC is not more powerful than Parliament which is supreme," he told a press conference.

(With PTI inputs)

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Kabul:

Pakistan, Afghanistan and China on Saturday agreed to boost mutual cooperation in combating all terrorist groups and individuals without any discrimination to eliminate terrorism from the region.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmoud Qureshi, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani met on Saturday for the 2nd Pakistan-China-Afghanistan Trilateral Foreign Ministers' dialogue during which they discussed trade, development, ways to end Afghanistan's 17-year war and regional cooperation.

Following the talks, the foreign ministers signed a memorandum of understanding to boost mutual cooperation for elimination of terrorism in the region, Radio Pakistan reported.

The signing of the MoU was witnessed by Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani.

The three sides also took stock of the trilateral cooperation in their fight against terrorism and "underlined the need to further strengthen counter-terrorism coordination and cooperation in an effort to combat all terrorist groups and individuals without any discrimination", it said.

They also agreed to counter logistical capabilities of terrorists, deny terrorist use of the internet and take joint steps for de-radicalisation, as well as work together to break the nexus between the narco-trade and terror-financing.

The ministers also reaffirmed their support to the Afghan-owned, and Afghan-led inclusive peace process that is fully supported regionally and internationally.

China and Pakistan hailed the efforts of Afghanistan's President, especially for the comprehensive peace plans that came out of the second Kabul Process and the Geneva Conferences on Afghanistan.

They also called on the Afghan Taliban to join the peace process at an early date.

They underlined the need to further strengthen their relations, deepen cooperation and advance connectivity under the China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan and other regional economic initiatives.

The ministers agreed to promote China-Afghanistan-Pakistan trilateral cooperation under the framework of jointly building the BRI.

They agreed to continue the economic development cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The three sides will continue to implement and expand the "soft" projects such as exchange and capacity building programs, and explore "hard" projects of livelihood facilities and connectivity, it said.

China expressed its readiness to support Afghanistan and Pakistan in building immigration reception centre and drinking water supply schemes at each side of the Ghulam Khan Khel crossing point, and to explore cold storages at Chaman and Spin Boldak.

Wang said his country supports enhanced coordination between Afghanistan and Pakistan on major energy and connectivity projects, including the construction of Quetta-Kandahar railway and the Kabul-Peshawar Motorway and Railway.

The three sides expressed their determination not to allow any country, organization or individual to use their respective territories for terrorist activities against any other countries.

Later, Qureshi addressing joint news conference along with his Chinese and Afghan counterparts after the dialogue, stressed on a joint strategy to eradicate the menace of terrorism from the region, reported Radio Pakistan.

Only through collective efforts, terrorism can be wiped out and the objectives of peace and development could be achieved, he said.

"We all want peace and stability in Afghanistan. Pakistan will benefit the most from the peace and stability of the neighbouring country," Qureshi said, adding that Islamabad will extend its cooperation in bringing all the Afghan groups to the table of negotiations.

Qureshi said Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Wang said both Afghanistan and Pakistan are friends of China and his country was ready to extend every possible cooperation to build trust and confidence between the two countries. He said his country will also assist in establishing connectivity projects including a railway line between Peshawar-Kabul and Kandahar.

The Chinese foreign minister said the Afghan reconciliation process can be taken forward by bringing the Taliban to the table of negotiations.

Rabbani said Pakistan has an important role to play to bringing peace in Afghanistan, as the peace in his country was vital for the peace and security of the entire region. He said eradication of terrorism will pave the way for economic development and job creation and

Pak-Afghan relations are rooted in common faith and culture. "We desire to strengthen our relations with Pakistan".

Qureshi, along with Pakistan's foreign secretary Tehmina Janjua and other senior officials, reached Kabul on his second trip to Afghanistan since Prime Minister Imran Khan came to power in August. He held bilateral meetings with President Ghani, Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah and Rabbani and discussed, the recent efforts for initiating peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.

Qureshi underscored that bilateral engagement remains the most viable platform for addressing matters of mutual interest and in this regard the Afghanistan-Pakistan Action Plan for Peace and Solidarity (APAPPS) provides the most effective mechanism, a statement from Pakistan's Foreign Office said.

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ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in a statement said that the well-being of the Afghan people must remain the focus, as they have suffered extremely due to prolonged conflict and instability for decades.

While chairing the Foreign Ministers' online meeting on the Afghan issue also attended by China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, Qureshi on Wednesday stressed the significance of proceeding with a realistic approach in view of the changed reality in Afghanistan, according to reports. A shared approach would help Afghanistan on its path to peace and stability and would result in enhanced economic integration and realization of connectivity projects, he said.

During the meeting, Qureshi drew the attention of the international community to addressing the humanitarian crisis and preventing economic meltdown in Afghanistan as the key priorities. He expressed optimism that the meeting would lay a strong foundation for a healthy regional engagement on the situation in Afghanistan. The Taliban announced on Tuesday night the formation of Afghanistan's caretaker government, with Mullah Hassan Akhund appointed as the acting prime minister.

The last batch of US troops left Afghanistan at mid-night on August 30, one day before the August 31 deadline set by President Joe Biden, ending a 20-year war into the South Asian country.

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China-Pak open support to Taliban's 'terrorist govt,' know which countries are disagreeing
New Delhi: India and Russia have decided to join hands with Central Asian republics bordering Afghanistan to prevent the spread of Islamic fundamentalism and jihad from the Taliban-ruled Kabul terror group. On Wednesday, Ajit Doval and Nikolai Patrushev discussed the security of the Central Asian Republics in an India-Russia NSA level consultation. The meeting was attended by intelligence chiefs from both sides.

According to people aware of the developments, there are strong indications that Turkey and Pakistan are trying to gain a foothold in these republics through NGOs and providing technical assistance in Ankara's efforts to Islamise. The Central Asian Republics follow Islam but are not like the Taliban. It is believed that the Islamic Emirate of Taliban-ruled Afghanistan could be used to raise life under Sharia, with the support of Turkey and Pakistan, in its mission to spread radical Islam. The Al Qaeda-affiliated Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) has active cadres in Afghanistan and has a huge influence in Uzbekistan's Fargana Valley.

The Doval-Patrushev meeting deliberated on the security of the Central Asian republics, Russian negotiators said, as the situation in these republics was under control. But the threat will only increase when the Taliban, under the guidance of Pakistan, becomes ambitious to spread their cult in the Amu Darya.

Government of India and NSCN(K) signed a ceasefire agreement for a period of one year

Saba Qamar trolled as arrest warrant issued, know what people said

Living in a live-in with someone else even after getting married is not a crime- HC
Mumbai: The NIA chargesheet in the Antilia case has brought out several questions. In fact, recently, Maharashtra Minister Nawab Malik said, "Sachin Vaze was made the main accused in the NIA chargesheet. We have been saying from day one that former Mumbai Police Commissioner Param Bir Singh has leveled allegations against Anil Deshmukh to protect himself.'' At the same time, Nawab Malik also said, "Param Bir Singh has misled the CM and others.'' According to the information found in the chargesheet, the person behind the manipulation is not being questioned. Singh has implicated the minister at the behest of BJP.

On the other hand, BJP MLA Ashish Shelar said, "NIA is doing its job. Those who are questioning the NIA chargesheet can do what the court can do. The NIA chargesheet should not be used to play politics.'' Let me tell you all that the NIA investigation is making big revelations about Param Bir Singh and Sachin Vaze. In fact, a statement has been made to the NIA by a cyber expert named Ishaan Sinha which is shocking. In fact, Param Bir Singh had made a modified report of Jaish-ul-hind's threat to the Ambani family on Telegram from Ishaan.

This was the same report that Ishaan had given to the Delhi Special Cell after the blast outside the Israeli Embassy. Ishaan reportedly changed the same report to a poster threatening Ambani and prepared the fake report at Param Bir Singh's behest to prove that Ambani's threat had come from Tihar. Ishaan was reportedly given Rs 5 lakh by Param Bir Singh in his cabin in lieu of the report.

Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta declares drought a national disaster

Not even single tweet from 'Rahul-Priyanka' on death anniversary of grandfather

Dengue outbreak: BSP Chief Mayawati slams UP govt over 'lack of medical facilities'
New Delhi: The Modi government at the Centre is likely to make a big announcement for exporters today. According to sources, the Commerce Minister is likely to make a big announcement for exporters at a press conference at 4:30 pm. According to sources, a relief of Rs 50,000 crores could be announced to exporters. The old dues of MEIS and SCIES will be paid soon. It also plans to provide relief from losses to exporters due to rising freight.

According to media reports, the government is in the process of increasing exports. That's why big announcements can happen. At the same time, goods and fares are becoming costlier to export to exporters. Now the government is going to take steps to provide relief to these traders. There is also a plan to promote agriculture exports. India has become one of the top 10 exporting agricultural products in 2019 on the basis of farmers.

According to the World Trade Organization's (WTO) 25-year Agri export trend, India has become one of the top countries in the world in exports of rice, cotton, soybeans, and meat. India accounted for 3.1 percent of the world's total agricultural product exports in 2019 and Mexico 3.4 percent. Mexico replaced seventh-ranked Malaysia, while India replaced 9th-ranked New Zealand. China was ranked sixth in 1995 but moved up to number four in 2019.

Delhi to rain for next 10 days, MET department issued alert

Kangana's parents astounded by 'Thalaivii,' said 5th National Award confirmed

Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan meets Australian High Commissioner Barry O'Farrell
Another exciting piece of information has arrived from Hollywood. It appears like another baby is on the way. Jennifer Lawrence, the actress of The Hunger Games, is expecting a child!. The actress is expecting her first baby with husband Cooke Maroney, whom she married on October 19, 2019. The actress's representative confirmed the news to PEOPLE on Wednesday, after it Lawrence fans are overjoyed.

Lawrence and Maroney were first linked in June 2018, and they got engaged in February of the following year. The next year, the pair married in Rhode Island. Adele, Amy Schumer, Kris Jenner, and Emma Stone were among their close friends who attended the wedding celebration. According to reports, the wedding took place at the luxurious Belcourt of Newport estate, a house in Newport constructed by American architect Richard Morris Hunt in 1894.

Jennifer Lawrence wore the blue bodysuit for X-Men: Dark Phoenix in 2019 after starring in the spy thriller Red Sparrow in 2018. However, following that venture, the actress appears to have taken a break from her hectic schedule to dedicate more time to her family and political activism. With more projects still upcoming for the Oscar-winner actress, Jennifer and her beloved husband have so much to look forward to in the next chapter of their lives.
MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin and European Council President Charles Michel on Wednesday expressed willingness for cooperation to stabilize the situation in Afghanistan and avoid the risk of terrorism, extremism and drug trafficking. They have discussed the evolving situation in Afghanistan and agreed to cooperate on regional stability, a Kremlin statement said. Putin and Michel also expressed readiness to prevent the spread of terrorism, extremism and drug crime, the statement added.

"Both sides stressed the importance of maintaining civil peace in the country and preventing violence, as well as establishing a real intra-Afghan dialogue to ensure the integrity of the Afghan state, taking into account the interests of all population groups," it read.

Putin also informed Michel about the steps being taken to fulfill the trilateral cease-fire agreement between Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue, it said. Discussing the Ukrainian settlement, Putin and Michel agreed on the necessity of the Minsk agreement's implementation, the statement noted. In a separate statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Moscow is closely following the developments in Afghanistan and currently does not plan contacts with the interim government established by the Taliban.

It was on August 15 that the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan after taking the control of Kabul, forcing the president and other top officials to leave the country.

Pakistan looks better diplomatic opening with Mullah Akhund as Afghan PM

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Afghan ambassador to focus on women's rights placed in Afghan's new govt
Kabul : The government of the terrorist organization Taliban has been formed in Afghanistan. There are a quarter of ministers in this government who have not only been students of Pakistani madrassas but are still developing terrorists in the name of Islamic education in their madrassas. Not only this, there are 5 ministers in the Taliban's government, who are dreaded terrorists in America's list, a reward of crores of rupees have also been announced on their heads. Actually, a terrorist government of the Taliban has been formed at the behest of Pakistan. Let us know the opinion of different countries towards the Talibani government:-

China- Dragon is fully in support of the Taliban government, within 24 hours of the announcement of the formation of the Taliban government in Afghanistan, China has opened its treasury for help. China has announced 200 million yuan (US$31 million) worth of food, winter goods, coronavirus vaccine aid for Afghanistan.

Russia- Nikolay Kudashev, appointed Russian Ambassador to India, has made it clear that he is not in a hurry to recognize the Taliban government. He has also said that he is with India on this issue. However, before the capture of Kabul, Taliban leaders held press discussions several times in Russia itself and told about their future plans. During this, these leaders also talked to Russian leaders. At the same time, after the capture of Kabul, Russia called it a big victory. The Russian Foreign Minister had even said that Afghanistan is under better Taliban rule than Ashraf Ghani's government. Even after this, many times there have been talks between the leaders of the Taliban, and the leaders of Russia.

Britain- Britain's Foreign Minister Dominic Raab has said that he does not want to see the socio-economic fabric of Afghanistan torn apart. He said that without the cooperation of the Taliban, arrangements could not be made to evacuate 15,000 people. Dominic Raab further said that our stand will remain that we will not recognize the Taliban, but through direct discussions with them, relief works will be carried out.

India- In the meeting organized on the culture of peace in the United Nations, India has said without naming anyone that even in the global pandemic, intolerance, violence, terrorism is increasing. Terrorism is also the antithesis of religions and cultures. Religion cannot be used to justify the perpetrators of terrorist activities and those who support them.

Pakistan- Pakistan's PM Imran Khan has already openly supported the Taliban. At the same time, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has also given open statements in support of the Taliban, as well as Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI is helping the Taliban to fight in Panjsheer.

US- US President Joe Biden has said that China, Pakistan, Russia, and Iran do not understand what they have to do with the terrorist organization Taliban. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in a press briefing that the Taliban was in no hurry to recognize the government. It will depend on what decision the Taliban takes next. The eyes of the whole world, including America, are on the Taliban.

EU- The European Union said it plans to re-establish a diplomatic mission in Kabul to meet the new Afghan government's commitments on issues such as security, human rights, and security, and oversee the evacuation of its people from Afghanistan. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said he would approach the Taliban on strict conditions, but that does not mean he would recognize the new Afghan government. To support the Afghan population, it is necessary to contact the current government there.

Taliban thrashed women and journalists with sticks and rifle butts

Taliban rule: Mullah Yaqub, son of mastermind of 'Kandahar Hijack' appointed as Afghan's new MoD

Russia, European Union agree to cooperate on Afghanistan
Kabul: The Taliban, a terror group in Afghanistan, has announced its new government. Mullah Jacob, the son of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, has been appointed as Afghanistan's new defence minister. Mullah Jacob is the son of the same Mullah Omar, the mastermind of the Kandahar Hijack in 1999.

On December 24, 1999, Pakistani terrorists hijacked Indian Airlines flight IC-814 to release Jaish-e-Mohammed leader Terrorist Masood Azhar, Al Omar Mujahideen leader Mushtaq Ahmed Zargar and al-Qaida leader Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh. The flight, which flew from Nepal's capital Kathmandu, was taken by terrorists to Kandahar in Afghanistan. Then there was the Taliban rule in Kandahar. The three terrorists were lodged in an Indian jail. The plane was carrying 176 passengers who were held hostage by hijackers for 7 days.

The hijacking operation is believed to have been carried out with the help of Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI. Mullah Omar was the mastermind of the operation. When the plane reached Kandahar, Taliban militants surrounded the plane with tanks from all sides. When India wanted to take military action to deal with highjackers, the Taliban and Mullah Omar did not allow. Mullah Mohammad Jacob, the son of Mullah Omar, has now been made the Defence Minister of Afghanistan.

Russia, European Union agree to cooperate on Afghanistan

Pakistan looks better diplomatic opening with Mullah Akhund as Afghan PM

Chinese Olympic Committee announces postponement of Asian Youth Games 2022
Home  Just In  2 new Asian Beast bikes in Nepal: All you need to know

Asian Automobiles Pvt Ltd, the authorised distributor of Asian Beast motorcycles for Nepal, has recently launched two new dirt bikes in Nepal. The trading firm established in 2017 to capitalise on the growing automobile sector in Nepal says it has unveiled HYPER-X 250 and AB250 V1, adding to the varieties of dirt bikes already under its name.

Between these two, AB250 V1 has already been launched in Nepal whereas the booking has been opened for Hyper-X 250.

With the increase in craze for dirt bikes in Nepal, the launch of different Asian Beast bikes with affordable pricing has caught the attention of dirt bike lovers here. This very reason has helped the company to gain a decent fan following in Nepal and has rivalled the likes of Crossfire bikes. With almost similar performance, Asian Beast comes with a lower price range than Crossfire bikes. The new launches should provide even better competition.

In this context, lets look at the major highlights of these two new bikes from Asian Beast.

Hyper-X 250

HYPER-X 250 is the new model in 2021 from Asian Beast. The previous generation of Asian Beast RE250F has retired to make way for the new HYPER-X250. The company claims the current model is lighter, slimmer, and more comfortable for the riders.

The subframe of the bike is made of aluminium for a lightweight body, making it efficient for long-term use. It has a 249.6CC compact engine with a power of 30.20+ BHP @9000 rpm and 22.5NM torque @7000 rpm.

Hyper-X 250 comes with a six-speed gearbox that provides ruthless power and also is equipped with a single cable-actuated acceleration along with an O-ring chain. The bike is also adjusted with the NIBBI PWK n34 racing edition carburettor, which is refined and gives flawless fuel delivery. The bike is equipped with a quick throttle response system for spontaneous response and aggressive power. It also has a liquid cooling system with double radiators and an assisting fan to ensure the engine stays cool throughout the most thrilling rides.

Talking about the suspension of the bike, it is loaded with Fastace Front 47 mm inverted with rebound and compression damping adjustability 251 mm travel and rear Fastace Prolink single shock with spring preload and rebound damping adjustability 116mm travel.

Hyper-X 250 will cost you Rs 540,000. The booking is open now and the company claims the bike will arrive in Nepal before Dashain.

AB250 V1

AB250 V1 is another dirt bike from Asian Beast. Already launched in Nepal, this bike is loaded with a single, four-stroke, four-valve, water cooling 249.6 cc engine that has an upward camshaft with a balance shaft.

This bike can generate a maximum power up to 30.20 [email protected] RPM and 22.5 Nm torque having an 11:6:1 compression ratio. It comes with a six-speed gearbox and also is equipped with a single cable-actuated acceleration along with an O-ring chain. It is adjusted with the NIBBI PWK n34 racing edition carburettor just like the Hyper-X 250.

With 11.5 litres of fuel tank capacity, it provides a mileage of around 20 to 25km/ltr on average. The bike too is equipped with a quick throttle response system for spontaneous response and aggressive power. The AB250V1 also has a liquid cooling system with double radiators and an assisting fan that ensure the engine stays cool.

Talking about the suspension of the bike, it is loaded with Fastace Front 47 mm inverted with rebound and compression damping adjustability 251 mm travel and rear Fastace Prolink single shock with spring preload and rebound damping adjustability 116mm travel.

AB250 V1 will cost you Rs 490,000 and the company claims it has been selling this model very quickly. Also, the price of this bike is expected to go up after Dashain.
Description

20th Anniversary Re-release of Award-winning 9/11 Documentary Film

On September 11, 2001, producer Jacki Ochs, who lived blocks from the Twin Towers, was

forced to evacuate her family. Days later, director Susanna Styron began volunteering at

Ground Zero. The following year, as the site closed and the city and country moved on, the

two filmmakers felt compelled to address the ongoing trauma by telling a story of hope and

healing. This became the acclaimed documentary film 9/12: From Chaos to Community,

which is being re-released for streaming, in honor of the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

9/12 tells the story of a group of dedicated New Yorkers who volunteer at Ground Zero

and form unexpected -- even unlikely -- bonds with first responders and with each other.

Through their stories, we present a portrait of the city within a city that was Ground Zero

and examine how a diverse group of people transcended politics and culture in an effort to

heal their city and themselves.

9/12 will be streamed FOR FREE from Thursday, September 9 through Monday,

September 13, and is available for rent and purchase at www.912film.com

PRAISE FOR 9/12: FROM CHAOS TO COMMUNITY

Its about Ground Zero, but more broadly its about the extraordinary sense of solidarity,

fellow-feeling, and, yes, patriotism that was experienced by nearly everyone in New York,

and maybe everyone in the country, in the days and weeks after the attack. This is a moving

picture in more ways than one. The milk of human kindness flows through it, mixed with

tears. Hendrik Hertzberg, The New Yorker

Having witnessed part of that effort myself, I am especially grateful to the filmmakers for

capturing so poignantly and accurately the shared feelings of awe, camaraderie, loss, and
Workforce

Biden mandates COVID vaccine for feds, contractors

President Biden visits an air base in the United Kingdom in June. (DOD photo)

President Joe Biden signed an executive order mandating vaccinations among federal executive branch employees on Thursday.

A separate executive order requires employees of companies that do business with the federal government be vaccinated.

The orders are part of a rollout of a new "six-pronged strategy" to quell the COVID-19 pandemic as the highly communicable Delta variant continues to spread, especially in regions of the country with low vaccination rates. The strategy includes mandating vaccines or testing for workers of companies that employ 100 or more workers, under a new Labor Department rule as well as provisions covering healthcare workers.

The White House expects to give federal employees "about 75 days" to be fully vaccinated, the official said. The mandate will have "limited exceptions" for medical or religious reasons. Like the administration's original requirements, feds who don't comply will face progressive disciplinary action, the official added.

Under the order, agencies will develop their own programs to implement the vaccination mandate. The Safer Federal Task Force, which has been issuing health and safety guidance for agencies throughout the pandemic, has one week to issue guidance on how agencies will implement the new mandate.

The order covering contractors instructs agencies to ensure that contracts have a clause requiring contractors and subcontractors to comply with all guidance for contractor workplaces issued by the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force. That group is under a Sept. 24 deadline for issuing guidance on how this will all work for contractors.

The Federal Acquisition Regulatory Council is going to amend its regulations so that new solicitations and contracts have a clause on vaccines. It's under an Oct. 8 deadline for "initial steps" to implement with acquisition offices.

"If you want to work with the federal government and do business with us, get vaccinated. If you want to do business with the federal government, vaccinate your workforce," Biden said in a nationally televised address late Thursday afternoon.

The move marks a dramatic shift in the administration's policies for managing the COVID-19 pandemic among federal employees and contractors. While some agencies like the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs have established vaccination mandates for some or all of their employees, the administration settled on a policy giving federal employees a choice to either get vaccinated or undergo regular COVID-19 testing and masking protocols.

Before the Sept. 9 orders, about 2.5 million service members and federal employees were operating under vaccine mandates being implemented by DOD, VA, the National Institutes of Health and the Indian Health Service.

But other questions about implementation remain.

It is not yet clear if the new policy will continue the practice of obtaining vaccination status from federal employees via "attestation" or require stricter proof of vaccination.

The administration official told reporters that "each agency will work with their employees to make sure they understand the benefits of vaccination and how the vaccines are safe, easy, free and widely accessible."

Everett Kelley, the president of the American Federation of Government Employees, said that vaccination "is the best way for us to protect each other in the workplace," but he also noted that changes to workplace requirements such as COVID vaccination, "should be negotiated with our bargaining units where appropriate."

"We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so," Kelley said in an emailed statement.

Tony Reardon, the national president of the National Treasury Employees Union, said that Biden is within his rights to issue a mandate.

"NTEU members, like American society at large, will have differing reactions to the new policy. Some employees will disagree. Others will welcome the additional security that comes with knowing that all of their coworkers are vaccinated. Either way, the law is clear that employers, including the federal government, may implement a vaccination requirement for employees," Reardon said in an emailed statement.

Larry Cosme, president of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, issued a statement calling the new mandate "misguided."

"We understand that threatening peoples livelihood and penalizing employees for making independent medical decisions is not the answer," he said. "We will continue to review the legal landscape for this order and act as appropriate to support our members and voice their concerns."

Federal managers also have concerns about being on the front lines of implementing the mandate.

"We want to be sure that guidance that comes from the centers of government is detailed and specific around how agencies should treat individuals" who might have medical or religious exemptions from vaccinations," said Chad Hooper, the executive director of the Professional Managers Association, a national membership association representing managers at the IRS, told FCW.

"Federal managers are personally, civilly liable for claims of discrimination arising out the workforce, and from the public, and I don't think that a lot of non- civil servants know that," Hooper said.

This story was updated multiple times on Sept. 9 with new information.
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. continues to move forward in its defamation lawsuit filed in Virginia state court against USA Today and its parent companies, Gannett Co., Inc. and Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC ("Gannett").

Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Logo (PRNewsfoto/Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc.)

Our main focus is helping patients, not profiting off of desperation and fear.

"USA Today published an article that was nothing more than a hit-piece on my professional reputation and over 30-year career," said Paul Edalat, Chairman and CEO of Vivera, in remarks about the ongoing litigation. "Vivera's team has worked non-stop during the pandemic to answer the call by the White House for safer access to testing. Not only has USA Today called my character into question, but that of Vivera. I owe it to the dedicated employees of this Company to contest this impugning of their integrity and hard work. Vivera is not a fly-by-night company like so many others popping up during the pandemic. Our main focus is helping patients, not profiting off of desperation and fear."

USA Today and Gannett filed two demurrers. But they were unsuccessful in their attempts to avoid engaging in the litigation and have the case dismissed in its early stages. The Court overruled the demurrers and found that Gannett executives and reporters still may be found directly liable for defamation, defamation per se, and tortious interference. The next hearing in the matter is anticipated in the fall of 2021.

Now that the media giant is forced to engage in the litigation fully and with reporters and executives of Gannett on the hook, Vivera hopes to clear its name of the reputational damage inflicted by the June 2020 article.

Vivera and Mr. Edalat have alleged in the complaint filed in Fairfax County, VA (Case No.: 2020 14458) that reporter David Heath and his co-defendants obtained interviews from Mr. Edalat and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stephen J. McColgan under false pretenses. The reporters then went on to misquote both men in an attempt to mislead readers about Vivera and its work.

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Mr. Edalat has questioned the motives of David Heath, lead investigative reporter, and his fellow reporters, along with those of Michael E. Reed, Gannett's Chairman and CEO, stating, "As a first-generation U.S. immigrant, I have always believed in the American Dream and still do. I chose to establish roots in the community I call home, and I have worked tirelessly to turn my dream of helping others into a reality." He continued, "Despite repeated attacks and press-sanctioned character assassination, I have not been deterred. What would have been called charisma or 'entrepreneurship' for any other CEO was twisted into malicious accusations against me. We love the United States for its freedoms, but I cannot ignore when those same principles are manipulated maliciously in the press."

According to Vivera's Counsel, Jack White, of the Virginia-based law firm FH+H PLLC, "Vivera is determined to vindicate its rights through the legal process. We are pleased with the progress made to date and look forward to fully engaging in factual development so that the truth can be known."

About Vivera Pharmaceuticals

Vivera Pharmaceuticals is an innovative, science-driven pharmaceutical company located in Southern California. The Company has global exclusivity to license the patented and patent-pending TABMELT sublingual drug delivery system for pharmaceutical use and holds its own issued patents on ZICOH, a smart dose-controlled medical device. With multiple divisions, including its pharmaceutical, neurosciences, medical technology, and advanced diagnostics divisions, Vivera Pharmaceuticals is vertically integrated with patented technology, manufacturing capabilities, and distribution for its products.

For more information, please visit viverapharmaceuticals.com or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Contact: FH+H

info@fhhfirm.com

(703) 590-1234

Cision

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SOURCE Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
EasyJet also announced plans to raise 1.2bn from shareholders in an attempt to help the firm weather the pandemic after its first annual loss in 25 years in 2020. Photo: Peter Nicholls/Reuters

Budget airline EasyJet (EZJ.L) lost as much as a tenth of its value on Thursday after it revealed it turned down a takeover bid.

The company said that it had recently received an unsolicited preliminary takeover approach, which was carefully evaluated and then unanimously rejected.

The unnamed potential bidder has since confirmed that it is no longer considering an offer, EasyJet said.

It also announced plans to raise 1.2bn from shareholders in an attempt to help the firm weather the pandemic after its first annual loss in 25 years in 2020.

The fully underwritten rights issue aims to protect and strengthen the companys long-term positioning in the European aviation sector, and help it recover from the health crisis by resilience to downside risks.

EasyJet said shareholders will be able to buy 31 new shares for every 47 existing shares at a price of 410p each. This represents a 35.8% discount on the theoretical ex-rights price of 638p per share on Wednesday.

The carrier also intends to launch the rights issue in France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

EasyJet shares nosedived on the back of the news. Chart: Yahoo Finance

"The capital raise announced today not only strengthens our balance sheet enabling us to accelerate our post-COVID-19 recovery plan but will also position us for growth so that we can take advantage of the strategic investment opportunities expected to arise as the European aviation industry emerges from the pandemic, Johan Lundgren, chief executive of EasyJet, said.

"Since the onset of the pandemic, we have undertaken decisive and robust action to restructure our operations, addressed our cost base and secured our financial position, keeping our investment-grade credit rating.

In addition to the rights issue, EasyJet said it had also secured a new $400m revolving credit facility from its banks.

The 10% fall on Thursday meant that the company was leading the FTSE 250 laggards. In the six months to the end of March, easyJet made a loss before tax of 701m.

The company said UK domestic travel is already above 2019 levels, although it still expected to carry only 57% of 2019 passenger numbers during the last three months of this year.

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Read more: Travel stocks head lower as EU tightens guidance on US travel

Unsurprisingly the shares havent reacted well to this announcement falling sharply as shareholders face having to fork out more extra cash, Michael Hewson of CMC Markets said.

In various attempts to shore up its finances over the last 18 months the airline has raised over 5.5bn already since the start of the pandemic. It has also gone down the route of selling and leasing back 43 of its aircraft to raise extra cash, though it appears to have decided not to double down in this direction for the time being.

He added: EasyJet may not be the last airline to look at raising extra capital in the weeks and months ahead, given the current environment.

Watch: EasyJet boosts summer capacity as travel returns
SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new market study published by Global Industry Analysts Inc., (GIA) the premier market research company, today released its report titled "Builders` and Cabinet Hardware - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics". The report presents fresh perspectives on opportunities and challenges in a significantly transformed post COVID-19 marketplace.

Builders` and Cabinet Hardware

FACTS AT A GLANCE

Edition: 18; Released: April 2021

Executive Pool: 8431

Companies: 510 - Players covered include Adams Rite; Allegion plc; Ashland Hardware Systems; ASSA ABLOY AB; CompX International, Inc.; Dormakaba Group; HAGER COMPANIES; Hickory Hardware; Kwikset Corp.; Markar Architectural Products; Masco Corp.; Medeco; Miwa Lock Co. Ltd.; Preferred Engineering Products Ltd.; Rockwood Manufacturing Company; SARGENT Manufacturing Company; Schlage; Securistyle Ltd.; Security Door Controls; Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.; Sugatsune America, Inc.; The J.G. Edelen Co., ; Tyman Plc and Others.

Coverage: All major geographies and key segments

Segments: Product Segment (Builders' Hardware, Cabinet Hardware)

Geographies: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World.

Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry

ABSTRACT-

Global Builders` and Cabinet Hardware Market to Reach $20.5 Billion by 2026

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Builders` and Cabinet Hardware estimated at US$16 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$20.5 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 4% over the analysis period. Builders` Hardware, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 4.2% CAGR and reach US$17.3 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Cabinet Hardware segment is readjusted to a revised 3.2% CAGR for the next 7-year period.

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The U.S. Market is Estimated at $5 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $3.6 Billion by 2026

The Builders` and Cabinet Hardware market in the U.S. is estimated at US$5 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$3.6 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 3.7% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 3.9% and 3.1% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 3.3% CAGR. More

MarketGlass Platform

Our MarketGlass Platform is a free full-stack knowledge center that is custom configurable to today`s busy business executive`s intelligence needs! This influencer driven interactive research platform is at the core of our primary research engagements and draws from unique perspectives of participating executives worldwide. Features include - enterprise-wide peer-to-peer collaborations; research program previews relevant to your company; 3.4 million domain expert profiles; competitive company profiles; interactive research modules; bespoke report generation; monitor market trends; competitive brands; create & publish blogs & podcasts using our primary and secondary content; track domain events worldwide; and much more. Client companies will have complete insider access to the project data stacks. Currently in use by 67,000+ domain experts worldwide.

Our platform is free for qualified executives and is accessible from our website www.StrategyR.com or via our just released mobile application on iOS or Android

About Global Industry Analysts, Inc. & StrategyR

Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (www.strategyr.com ) is a renowned market research publisher the world`s only influencer driven market research company. Proudly serving more than 42,000 clients from 36 countries, GIA is recognized for accurate forecasting of markets and industries for over 33 years.

CONTACTS:

Zak Ali

Director, Corporate Communications

Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

Phone: 1-408-528-9966

www.StrategyR.com

Email: ZA@StrategyR.com

LINKS

Join Our Expert Panel

https://www.strategyr.com/Panelist.asp

Connect With Us on LinkedIn

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SOURCE Global Industry Analysts, Inc.
Atrium Named Best in Four of Six Benchmark Guest Experience Categories

ALPHARETTA, Ga., September 08, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Atrium Hospitality today announced the company has been recognized for being the best in guest satisfaction among third-party hotel management companies in the annual benchmark by J.D. Power. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Atrium Hospitality is one of the nations largest hotel operators. Representing well-known hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Wyndham, Atriums national hotel portfolio spans more than 80 hotels in 28 states and 3 million+ square feet of event space.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210908005670/en/

Atrium Hospitality has been recognized for being the best in guest satisfaction among third-party hotel management companies in the annual benchmark by J.D. Power. Alpharetta, Georgia-based Atrium Hospitality is one of the nation's largest hotel operators. (Photo: Business Wire)

Award-Winning Guest Satisfaction

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data, and analytics. The J.D. Power 2021 Third-Party Hotel Management Company Guest Satisfaction Benchmark includes third-party operators with more than 14,000 rooms under management and is based on 3,085 guest responses for branded hotel stays from May 2020 through June 2021.

The 2021 benchmark consists of six factors that are distinct to the guest experience. Atrium Hospitality performed particularly well in four of the six categories and achieved the following:

#1 in Food & Beverage

#1 in Services & Amenities

#1 in Hotel Facilities

#1 in Cost & Fees

"Being recognized by hotel guests for performing our job with excellence is always rewarding but especially so during the unique conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Daniel Abernethy, Atrium Hospitality President. "This incredible honor awarded to Atrium Hospitality by J.D. Power illuminates the central role of our hardworking, dedicated team members in maintaining exceptional guest experiences."

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Atrium Hospitality ranked #1 in overall customer satisfaction in the J.D. Power 2021 benchmark and received the highest score of 863 (on a 1,000-point scale). Atrium advanced three points in the 2021 benchmark, building on our impressive performance in the 2020 inaugural study in which Atrium tied for second in overall guest satisfaction. Atriums increase in total points is especially notable during this lingering pandemic. Our properties have been working with smaller teams in line with demand, monitoring evolving state and local guidance for gatherings and mask mandates, and implementing enhanced safety standards and protocols to bring peace of mind to our guests and team members.

Companys Core Values Serve as Guide

Atrium Hospitalitys core values of Perseverance, Respect, Inclusion, Service and Teamwork guide our culture for creating a welcoming environment for all and encouraging the personal growth of the companys Associates.

Abernethy added, "I express my heartfelt appreciation to our Atrium family members across the country for their continued perseverance in being examples of our core values in action. Im continuously impressed by our Associates enthusiasm for expanding their skill sets as we work to exceed all guests expectations. There is a genuine spirit of teamwork throughout our Atrium-managed national hotel portfolio as we provide clean, safe stays and reimagined gatherings."

About Atrium Hospitality

Atrium Hospitality is ranked as one of the nations largest hotel operators. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, the company manages a portfolio of 82 hotels in 28 states, representing well-known brands such as: Hilton, Marriott, IHG, and Wyndham, among others. Atrium operates 20,463 guest rooms/suites and more than 3 million square feet of event space. Atrium Hospitality was awarded a Top Workplaces 2020 honor by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The companys five core values of Perseverance, Respect, Inclusion, Service and Teamwork steer a culture of unity while encouraging personal growth. Atrium supports a range of civic and community activities, and Atrium properties nationwide are proud to take part in Project SEARCH, a school-to-work program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Atrium also participates at an enterprise level to financially support the Clean the World initiative of shipping recycled hotel soap and plastic amenity bottles for distribution with humanitarian purposes in communities domestically and around the world. For more information about Atrium, visit www.atriumhospitality.com.

About J.D. Power

J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. A pioneer in the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithmic modeling capabilities to understand consumer behavior, J.D. Power has been delivering incisive industry intelligence on customer interactions with brands and products for more than 50 years. The world's leading businesses across major industries rely on J.D. Power to guide their customer-facing strategies.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210908005670/en/

Contacts

Sheri D. Smith

WiseHive Public Relations LLC for Atrium Hospitality

214-454-3969; sheri.smith@wisehivepr.com
NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Better Choice Company (NYSE: BTTR) (the Company or Better Choice), an animal health and wellness company, is pleased to announce a donation made in partnership with Greater Good Charities to provide support to animal shelters in Louisiana impacted by Hurricane Ida.



Following Hurricane Ida, and the shelter displacements left in its wake throughout Louisiana, Better Choice and Greater Good Charities continue to collaborate in ensuring the donation of meals for dogs across the Louisiana pet shelters in need. The donation of over 40,000 bowls of pet food have been dispersed and is part of Better Choice Companys philanthropic efforts to facilitate care and improve the well-being of pets and the people who love them.

It is part of our mission at Better Choice to ensure pets receive proper nutrition on a regular basis, and when times for basic needs become challenging, it is critical for businesses to help serve the needs of communities in distress, said Scott Lerner, Better Choice CEO. In the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, a substantial number of families are either sheltering in place or have been entirely displaced, and our longstanding partnership with Greater Good Charities has seamlessly facilitated a delivery of Halo dog food that will ensure pets are cared for during this difficult time.

Denise Bash Claycomb, VP of Disaster Response at Greater Good Charities commented, The nutritious meals donated by Halo will be used to assist families that have been displaced or are sheltering in place in New Orleans through the Louisiana SPCA and the Louisiana State Animal Response Team. The bags are the perfect size to hand out to pet parents that are stopping into animal shelters, cooling stations, and food distribution pods looking for resources to care for their dogs. We are incredibly thankful to Halo for providing relief to these families, so they have the peace of mind that their beloved pets are healthy and as comfortable as possible during this difficult response and recovery."

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About Better Choice Company Inc.

Better Choice Company Inc. is a rapidly growing animal health and wellness company committed to leading the industry shift toward pet products and services that help dogs and cats live healthier, happier and longer lives. We take an alternative, nutrition-based approach to animal health relative to conventional dog and cat food offerings and position our portfolio of brands to benefit from the mainstream trends of growing pet humanization and consumer focus on health and wellness. We have a demonstrated, multi-decade track record of success selling trusted animal health and wellness products and leverage our established digital footprint to provide pet parents with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their pet's health. We sell the majority of our dog food, cat food and treats under the Halo and TruDog brands, which are focused, respectively, on providing sustainably sourced kibble and canned food derived from real whole meat, and minimally processed raw-diet dog food and treats. For more information, please visit https://www.betterchoicecompany.com.

About Greater Good Charities

Greater Good Charities, is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit organization, with a 100/100 rating on Charity Navigator, that works to amplify the good in the world to improve the health and well-being of people, pets, and the planet. Since 2007, Greater Good Charities has given over $350 million in cash and in-kind grants to over 5,000 charitable partners worldwide and funded projects in 121 countries. To date, Greater Good Charities has provided over $28 million in support for COVID-19 disaster-relief, including cash grants, in-kind supplies, and programmatic support. To learn more about how Greater Good Charities is amplifying the good across the globe, please visit greatergood.org or follow Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words believe, may, estimate, continue, anticipate, intend, should, plan, could, target, potential, is likely, will, expect and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. The Company has based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Some or all of the results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not be achieved. Further information on the Companys risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Company Contact:

Better Choice Company, Inc.

Scott Lerner, CEO

Investor Contact:

KCSA Strategic Communications

Valter Pinto, Managing Director

T: 212-896-1254

Valter@KCSA.com




SEOUL, South Korea, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- KGC celebrated the 65th anniversary of CheongKwanJang, a Korean luxury red ginseng brand. Since the use of 'CheongKwanJang' in the Hong Kong Chengdu Ilbo in 1956, it has been loved by many.

CheongKwanJang, Korean Red Ginseng

The world's best Korean ginseng becomes a luxury red ginseng, Birth of 'CheongKwanJang'

The government-run management system of ginseng and red ginseng in Korea began in 1899, the 36th year of King Gojong of the Korean Empire. Samjeonggwa was established in the royal family, and the state began to manage the production and manufacture of ginseng and red ginseng through a monopoly system.

In the late 1950s, when red ginseng exports increased in earnest, the name 'Cheong-Kwan-Jang' was first used to distinguish it from counterfeit products that stole the reputation of Korean ginseng abroad. It is written as 'Cheong-Kwan-Jang' by adding 'Cheong' to 'Kwan-Jang' and 'Cheong', which means an official product. .

Since then, CheongKwanJang has become a popular Hallyu food (K-food) that has been exported to more than 40 countries around the world following the tradition of Korean ginseng. Recently, it has been loved as a "representative brand in Korea" by winning various awards such as the First Brand Award and the Trusted Company Award from various domestic and foreign organizations and media.

In particular, in China, in March 2020, the 'CheongKwanJang' brand was officially recognized as a 'well-known trademark'. In China, a "well-known trademark" refers to a trademark specially recognized by the Chinese government that the brand is widely known to the public and has a high reputation and credibility.

As such, CheongKwanJang, which has established itself as a representative red ginseng brand in Korea today, has maintained a strong position, occupying about 70% of the Korean red ginseng market. 'CheongKwanJang,' which has preserved the tradition of Korean ginseng in its 120-year history, is gaining the trust of consumers through thorough quality control in all stages of raw materials, production, distribution and sales.

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The best ginseng, the excellence of Korean ginseng recognized by the world

'Goryeo ginseng', which refers to ginseng grown in Korea, is a medicinal plant belonging to the Araliaceae family. In English, it is 'ginseng', and its scientific name is 'Panax ginseng'. 'Panax' is a Greek word, Pan is a compound word of 'everything' and Axos is a compound word of 'treatment, medicine'. Usually, it takes 6 years to become full and mature. In addition, Korean ginseng is the only plant of the genus Panax in the world that has the shape of a human body.

Ginseng is a semi-shade plant and grows in a cool place. They don't like high temperatures, so it's important to provide good sun protection in the summer. Likes moderate moisture, but dislikes excessive moisture. In order to match the demanding nature of ginseng, farmers have to work diligently. Therefore, it is said that ginseng grows by listening to the sound of wind, water, and human footsteps.

The main active ingredient of ginseng is a complex carbohydrate called saponin or ginsenoside. Even in plants of the same species, the pattern of saponin content varies depending on the cultivation environment. The total number of saponin compounds contained in Korean ginseng is 37, which is much higher than the 14 species of Hwagi ginseng in North America and 15 species of Chinese ginseng. In particular, ginsenosides Ra, Rf, Rg3, and Rh2 are unique to Korean ginseng.

The wisdom of our ancestors to improve the storage of ginseng, the origin of red ginseng

Originally, ginseng was freshly canned from the field and fresh ginseng, that is, fresh ginseng, was used for medicinal purposes. However, since fresh ginseng usually contains about 75% moisture, it is difficult to store it for a long time as it is mined, and it is especially difficult to maintain the value of the product because it is prone to corruption or damage during the distribution process.

Therefore, the method devised by our ancestors for long-term storage is drying. The dried ginseng is called white ginseng (dried ginseng), and the dried ginseng by steaming it without peeling it is called red ginseng. However, long-term storage of white ginseng for more than one year is difficult, so a method for producing red ginseng is absolutely necessary.

At that time, it was not easy to distribute fresh ginseng because refrigeration technology was not developed, so red ginseng was the processed fresh ginseng product that came out after devising a way to dry it without compromising the medicinal effect of fresh ginseng. The red ginseng produced in this way has a strong fragrance, a longer shelf life, and a longer efficacy.

Red ginseng is a representative health functional food that has been loved in Korea for a long time. Red ginseng, which is produced by steaming and drying 6-year-old ginseng with steam, harmonizes with the saponins, red ginseng polysaccharides, amino sugars, and minerals produced in the process to reduce the concentration of fatigue substances and promote energy-generating hormones. It also boosts macrophage activity.

In particular, red ginseng has been officially recognized by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, a national agency that manages the safety of medicines and food in Korea. Red ginseng is the best-selling health food in Korea. In particular, in Korea, the number of consumers looking for red ginseng is increasing significantly.

SOURCE KGC (Korea Ginseng Corp.)
BEIJING, Sept. 9, 2021 /CNW/ -- China and the UK have expressed willingness to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in tackling global climate change and achieve positive results at the upcoming United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference and the Global Biodiversity Summit.

China and the UK have maintained a good cooperative relationship in coping with climate change./CFP

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng and Alok Sharma, president-designate of the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), made the assurance during a video meeting on Tuesday.

COP26 will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in November, while the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) will be held in south China's Kunming City online in October 2021 and offline in October 2022.

Han stressed that global solidarity and cooperation are needed to tackle climate change.

Expressing expectations for COP26, Han hopes that the climate conference will send a strong political signal for firmly upholding multilateralism, respecting multilateral rules and promoting actions. He also expects that the delegates at COP26 will actively transform climate goals into specific policies and actions, and complete the negotiations to meet the Paris Agreement.

Both countries have maintained good cooperation in dealing with climate change and have set stronger carbon emission reduction targets to meet carbon neutrality, Han said, also calling both sides to exploit their advantages and strengthen dialogue related to climate change.

China, which holds the presidency of COP15, is willing to work with the UK to promote the success of the two conferences, Han said.

Hailing China's efforts in tackling climate change, Sharma said the UK looks forward to expanding exchanges and cooperation in areas such as climate finance, energy and carbon trading and is willing to strengthen dialogue and coordination with China to achieve positive outcomes at COP26 and COP15.

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SOURCE CGTN

Cision

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mandatory retirement plans

While many companies offer their employers access to 401(k) plans, there is no requirement mandating them to do so. But this could soon change under a proposal that would require more employers to offer their workers 401(k) plans and other tax-advantaged retirement savings plans.

A financial advisor can help you sort out your retirement accounts and create a plan for retirement. Find a financial advisor today.

Federal 401(k) Requirement Proposal

The House Ways and Means Committee is considering a new measure to require companies to automatically enroll their employees in either an IRA or a 401(k)-type program if they dont offer a traditional workplace retirement plan, reported the industry journal Pensions and Investments.

The plan is being proposed by Committee Chairman Richard Neal (D-Mass.), who has long been a proponent of expanding retirement coverage for American workers. He originally introduced legislation to require employers to enroll workers in retirement plans in December 2017 as the Automatic Retirement Plan Act. Such a requirement is being discussed as a potential markup to the $3.5 trillion social spending plan that is the talk of Washington.

Note that this proposal is at an early stage of discussion. In order for legislation to become law, it needs to get passed in both houses of Congress and the president has to sign it.

The plan would require all companies to offer either a 401(k) or an IRA, with exceptions for governments, churches and companies with five or fewer employers or those that have existed for fewer than two years. This legislation would apply to all workers over 21 years old. Contributions from employers would not be required, but there would be an excise tax on businesses without an employer match.

States Also Moving to Require Retirement Plans

mandatory retirement plans

States have also taken action in recent years to help individuals save for retirement. According to Pew Charitable Trusts, eight states have established auto-IRA programs, which are sponsored by the state and managed privately. A portion of worker pay is automatically contributed to their individual account, though each worker can choose how much money to contribute or to opt out. The states which have passed legislation for these plans so far are Illinois, Oregon, California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Colorado and Virginia.

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As of June 2021, there are 37 total states that have either proposed or passed legislation for auto-IRA programs. Generally, they are aimed at workers for small companies that dont offer traditional 401(k) plans. Though all workers in the United States can open their own IRA plan, many fall behind on retirement savings. The basic idea is that creating plans automatically will make it easier for workers to save for retirement.

Bottom Line

IRA documents

Retirement savings is important, as traditional pensions have become rarer and Social Security is generally not enough for a person to survive on after they stop working. There is a proposal in the House Ways and Means Committee to require most businesses to offer a retirement plan or IRA for all employees over age 21. Additionally, many states are considering creating auto-IRA plans for workers without access to a retirement plan, as has already been done in eight states across the country.

Retirement Planning Tips

A financial advisor can help you make sure youre ready for retirement. Finding a qualified financial advisor doesnt have to be hard. SmartAssets free tool matches you with up to three financial advisors in your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost to decide which one is right for you. If youre ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.

Saving for retirement is the first step, but you also need to think about how you are investing the money you save. Use SmartAssets asset allocation calculator to figure out what your portfolio should look like.

Photo credit: iStock.com/Douglas Rissing, iStock.com/insta_photos, @iStock.com/designer491

The post Congress Could Make Your Employer Offer You a 401(k) appeared first on SmartAsset Blog.
Deveron expands United States footprint, increasing acres under management by 400,000 annually

Agronomic Solutions 2020 unaudited revenue of US $1.54M and EBITDA of US $430k

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), a leading agriculture digital services and insights provider in North America, is pleased to announce it has entered into a definitive agreement dated September 8, 2021 (the "Definitive Agreement") to acquire the assets of Agronomic Solutions, LLC. ("Agronomic Solutions"), a leading digital agronomy company, that services Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Minnesota, Illinois and Kansas (the "Acquisition"). Agronomic Solutions provides soil sampling services and digital management across 400,000 acres of customers annually. Agronomic Solutions' unaudited 2020 revenue was US$1.54M and EBITDA of US$430k. This acquisition adds another leading local agriculture service provider in key jurisdictions in the United States, accelerating the Company's growth strategy by increasing acres under management.

Brandy Hodges, an original founder of Agronomic Solutions, commented, "Nick and I are so excited to have Agronomic Solutions join the Deveron family. Deveron's end-to-end soil health solutions and turn-key insights offer agribusinesses the opportunity to drive value through increasing yields while reducing cost. We are excited to utilize these tools to facilitate accelerated growth as Agronomic Solutions continues to expand in our territory."

"Agronomic Solutions is a remarkable leader in soil sampling and soil data analytics in their operating territories. The trust that Brandy and Nick have built with their customer base is very impressive and something we look to build upon as they grow within the company," said David MacMillan, Deveron's President and CEO. "Adding Agronomic Solutions to Deveron's growing footprint is an integral step towards our vision of being North America's leader in soil health data and insights. We look forward to working with Brandy, Nick and the rest of the Agronomic Solutions team to leverage Deveron's end-to-end soil health solutions to increase their influence across Mid-Western United States."

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As consideration for the Acquisition, Deveron has agreed to: (i) pay Agronomic Solutions an initial cash payment of US$425,000 upon signing of the Definitive Agreement and an aggregate of US$425,000 on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement; and (ii) issue such number of common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") equal to US$141,667 at a price of $0.68 per Common Share upon receipt of the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") and an additional number of Common Shares equal to US$141,667 at a price of $0.68 per Common Share on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement.

The completion of the transaction remains subject to all regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Agronomic Solutions: Agronomic Solutions is a company that specializes in all types of precision ag services. We work with coops, retailers, seed businesses, growers, landowners, and farm managers providing them with support and assistance in choosing which of our services best fit their needs. We do not sell seed, fertilizer or other ag inputs so as to not compete with our customers. Our staff consists of Certified Crop Advisors who are qualified to offer unbiased solutions and services that are tailored to the client.

About Deveron: Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. Our team of agronomists and data scientists build products that recommend ways to better manage fertilizer, seed, fungicide, and other farm inputs. Additionally, we have a national network of data technicians that are deployed to collect various types of farm data, from soil to drone. Our geographic focus is the US and Canada where 1 billion acres are actively farmed annually.

For more information, please visit www.deveronuas.com.

David MacMillan

President & CEO Deveron Corp.

416-367-4571 ext. 221

dmacmillan@deveronuas.com

"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under Canadian securities laws. Without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the world-wide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. Additional information regarding the material factors and assumptions that were applied in making these forward looking statements as well as the various risks and uncertainties we face are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis of our financial results and other continuous disclosure documents and financial statements we file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedar.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update this forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The Company relies on litigation protection for forward looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95970
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France set out a plan to tackle its Covid-19 debt mountain by relying on investment to fuel stronger economic growth, resisting any temptation to raise taxes to repair its public finances.

The 2022 budget will deliver on promises to cut corporate tax -- which stood at more than 33% for some companies when Emmanuel Macron took office in 2017 -- to 25% for all firms. It will also continue the phasing out of residency tax, Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said.

Separately, the government is working on the details of a multi-year investment plan worth tens of billions of euros for new industrial sectors, and fresh support for training and employment for young people.

This budget is completely coherent with the three strategic choices we have defended from the start of the presidency: cutting taxes, supporting investment and innovation, and supporting French people to work, Le Maire said.

The plans underscore how European countries are seeking to avoid repeating the sharp spending cuts and tax hikes that followed the global financial crisis, which critics claim choked output for a long period.

Le Maire said there are signs Frances strategy is already working as budget deficits will be narrower than previously expected this year and next because the economy has rebounded quickly. The government now forecasts a budget shortfall of 4.8% of gross domestic product in 2022 instead of 5.3% previously.

We wont make the error of consolidating public finances too fast and killing off growth, Le Maire said. It is perfectly possible to combine a return to growth and a reasonable reconstruction of public finances.

Domestic politics is also playing a role in budget plans as Macron faces elections in April and is under pressure to ween the French economy off emergency aid without disrupting the recovery. Le Maire said that the 2022 deficit will likely end up being more than the official 4.8% once Macron decides on the investment and jobs plans in the coming weeks.

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But the finance minister said that he would ensure the gap is still below the initial forecast.

We wont spend all the fruits of growth -- part of that must go to deficit and debt reduction, Le Maire said.

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WALTHAM, Mass., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresenius Medical Care, the world's leading provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The company, founded in 1996 when Fresenius merged its dialysis business with the U.S.-based dialysis services provider National Medical Care, now has more than 120,000 employees, operates approximately 4,100 dialysis clinics in more than 65 countries and treats about 345,000 patients. Over the past 25 years the number of patients treated in company dialysis clinics has risen more than six-fold. The production of dialysis filters (dialyzers) has increased ten-fold. Revenue is up sixteen-fold since 1996 and net income by more than a factor of 17.

(PRNewsfoto/Fresenius Medical Care North Am)

Rice Powell, CEO of Fresenius Medical Care: "Fresenius Medical Care was founded 25 years ago with the aim of continuously improving the quality of life of our patients by offering them high-quality products as well as innovative technologies and treatment concepts. We will continue to pursue these goals in the future. As the global market leader in dialysis therapies and dialysis products, we are taking every opportunity to develop further, from digitization to the development of entirely new treatment options."

The roots of this success story go back to 1960, when Fresenius began importing dialysis machines and dialyzers from various foreign companies and distributing them in Germany, gaining a substantial market share. In 1979 the company launched its own dialysis machine, the A2008, which set a quality standard and became the world's top seller. This role as market leader grew with the introduction of successor models from Fresenius Medical Care. Today, nearly every second dialysis machine sold worldwide is made by Fresenius Medical Care. In the early 1980s the company developed the first polysulfone dialysis filters, opening up a new era in the treatment of kidney disease. Polysulfone dialyzers are particularly effective at cleaning the patient's blood and still set the industry standard to this day. Fresenius Medical Care has, to date, manufactured more than two billion dialyzers.

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Success in dialysis products ultimately paved the way for the entry into dialysis services. In 1996, Fresenius acquired National Medical Care and combined it with its own dialysis business, a move that marked the birth of Fresenius Medical Care. That same year, the fledgling company was listed on the Frankfurt and New York exchanges that year. In 1999, Fresenius Medical Care shares gained a listing in Germany's benchmark index, the DAX.

Since its founding, Fresenius Medical Care has been the world's leading provider of products and services for people with renal disease. The company has steadily strengthened this position as it consistently set new milestones: In 1999, the number of dialysis machines made at company's Schweinfurt, Germany, plant reached the 100,000 mark. In 2003, the company set two "firsts" by treating more than 100,000 patients and producing more than 50 million dialyzers that year. Total dialyzers produced reached the 500-million mark in 2007 and rose to one billion by 2013. The year before, dialysis device number 500,000 came off the Fresenius Medical Care assembly line in Schweinfurt.

Fresenius Medical Care is constantly improving dialysis technology and introducing new, innovative treatment concepts. In 2016, it launched the latest generation in hemodialysis machines, the 6008, which optimizes dialysis treatment and delivers it even more economically. In 2019, Fresenius Medical Care launched the 4008A dialysis machine developed specially to meet the needs of developing countries. The device offers Fresenius Medical Care's highest treatment standard while keeping the cost to national health systems as low as possible.

Strong growth at Fresenius Medical Care has time and again been accompanied by large, strategic acquisitions: In 2006, the company acquired Renal Care Group, the third-largest operator of dialysis centers in the United States. That was followed, in 2011, by the purchase of Liberty Dialysis, another major U.S. dialysis center operator. With the acquisition of Euromedic that same year, Fresenius Medical Care significantly expanded its presence in Central and Eastern Europe. In 2019, the company expanded its presence in home dialysis with the acquisition of NxStage, which offered patients even more therapy options. By 2020, 12 percent of Fresenius Medical Care patients received their dialysis treatments at home.

The company expects strong growth will continue in the future. Until 2025 the company expects compounded annual growth rates in the mid-single-digit percentage range for revenue and in the high-single-digit percentage range for net income. Fresenius Medical Care believes that what until now has been very fragmented treatment of chronic kidney disease patients should be much more closely integrated through the entire course of the disease. To accomplish this, the company wants to make more effective use of core competencies in the areas of innovative products, ambulatory facilities operation, standardization of medical procedures and patient coordination.

Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases of which around 3.7 million patients worldwide regularly undergo dialysis treatment. Through its network of more than 4,100 dialysis clinics, Fresenius Medical Care provides dialysis treatments for approximately 346,000 patients around the globe. Fresenius Medical Care is also the leading provider of dialysis products such as dialysis machines or dialyzers. Along with its core business, the Renal Care Continuum, the company focuses on expanding in complementary areas and in the field of critical care. Fresenius Medical Care is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FME) and on the New York Stock Exchange (FMS).

For more information visit the Company's website at www.freseniusmedicalcare.com.

Disclaimer:

This release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to various factors, including, but not limited to, changes in business, economic and competitive conditions, legal changes, regulatory approvals, impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic results of clinical studies, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, uncertainties in litigation or investigative proceedings, and the availability of financing. These and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA's reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this release.

Media Contact

Martin Kunze

T +49 6172 609-2115

martin.kunze@fresenius.com

Contact for analysts and investors

Dr. Dominik Heger

T +49 6172 609-2601

dominik.heger@fmc-ag.com

Fresenius Medical Care North America

Brad Puffer

T 781-699-3331

Brad.Puffer@fmc-na.com

www.freseniusmedicalcare.com

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/fresenius-medical-care-celebrates-25th-anniversary-301372721.html

SOURCE Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.
Featured Image for Learnit

Featured Image for Learnit

Featured Image for Learnit

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Learnit, a leader in corporate training, today announced the addition of Ben Speich as Chief Operating Officer. Ben brings more than 13 years of professional experience and seven years of executive experience in the technology space helping organizations improve productivity and attain company goals.

In his role, Ben will oversee company operations working with Sales, Marketing, Customer Experience and Product teams. As COO, Ben will develop and execute a strategic operations plan to position the company to realize aggressive growth goals. Additionally, he will oversee resource management, streamline communications, processes and workflows and cultivate a positive cross-team culture and client-focused teams. Ben will report to CEO Damon Lembi.

"It's rare to find someone with such a strong command of technology and operational excellence who also possesses exceptional people skills," says Damon Lembi, CEO of Learnit. "I was blown away when speaking with people who have worked with Ben in the past  to hear what a tremendous impact he's had on their organization's culture."

Prior to joining Learnit, Ben was the Vice President of Operations at Mentice, a leader in virtual reality and physical flow model-based interventional medical simulation solutions. At Mentice, Ben worked with clients to better understand their needs and construct products and services that would bring them value.

"Learnit's reputation for being a pioneer in professional education is outstanding. I'm thrilled to be joining the company at what is undoubtedly a very exciting time for learning and development," says Speich. "The knowledge and credentials required to succeed in the professional space is evolving and attitudes about education and learning are changing. I believe we are well-positioned to provide tremendous value to organizations looking to nurture talent and to individuals looking for alternatives to college as they seek relevant and practical skills to help them thrive professionally."

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Ben is a strong advocate for the value of culture within an organization as well as a passionate reader.

"The first time Damon and I spoke, we spent the first hour talking about books and trading recommendations. It was clear that Damon was as passionate about self-growth as I was," said Speich. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to join Learnit and look forward to working with Damon and the entire Learnit organization in upskilling workforces at the highest levels across the globe."

A former member of the Air National Guard, Ben currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife, Kristin, their two sons, Foster and Sullivan, and their two dogs, Vada and Bree.

About Learnit

Based out of San Francisco, Learnit has successfully served the training needs of businesses, government agencies, and individuals since 1995. Learnit offers a wide range of live instructor-led and on-demand classes and custom programs. Areas of focus include soft skills such as critical thinking, complex problem-solving, building resilience, and emotional intelligence in combination with technical skills such as Excel, Sharepoint, SQL and more.

www.learnit.com

For Inquiries

sammy.lembi@learnit.com

p. 855-838-5028

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(Left to right) Dr. Linda Boyd, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine; Scot Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer, Robert C. Byrd Clinic; Jonathan Tucker, MAKO Medical; Ryan Nibert, MAKO Medical

(Left to right) Dr. Linda Boyd, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine; Scot Mitchell, Chief Executive Officer, Robert C. Byrd Clinic; Jonathan Tucker, MAKO Medical; Ryan Nibert, MAKO Medical

Lewisburg, West Virginia, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MAKO Medical Laboratories, a national reference laboratory and leader in COVID-19 testing, announced a comprehensive partnership with the Robert C. Byrd Clinic (RCBC) to provide an on-site, full-service patient center for laboratory work.

We are proud to partner with RCBC, said Ryan Nibert, Regional Executive, MAKO Medical. The MAKO Medical team has all the resources, capacity and expertise needed to provide a convenient and affordable on-site laboratory for RCBC and the residents of the Greenbrier Valley.

In addition to the on-site laboratory, MAKO Medical will offer innovative patient centered solutions to meet the demands of the ever-changing healthcare environment.

When asked about the partnership, Chief Executive Officer Scot Mitchell stated, At Robert C. Byrd Clinic we have always sought to provide the best care for our community and we believe this partnership will do just that.

RCBC is a non-for-profit, comprehensive rural health clinic providing primary health care to the Southern West Virginia community. The clinic is headquartered on the campus of the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM), one of the top medical schools in the nation in primary care and family medicine,

With over 40 physicians and nurse practitioners, RCBC offers a wide range of quality care, in addition to clinical research and training opportunities for future osteopathic physicians from WVSOM, a leader in graduating physicians who practice in rural areas.

We recognize RCBCs important mission of providing high-quality, personalized care to the community, said Jonathan Tucker, Regional Executive, MAKO Medical. MAKO Medicals reliable laboratory solutions are a great way to deliver on that mission.

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Company Highlights:

For the past two years, Forbes Magazine has included MAKO Medical in its inaugural list of Americas Best Startup Employers. Only 500 companies nationwide earned the distinction.

May 2021, the Triangle Business Journal in Raleigh, NC recognized MAKO Medical with a 2021 Life Sciences Award for Best COVID-19 Research Company.

August 2020, MAKO Medical announced the company scored 100% on CAP COVID Proficiency Testing, demonstrating MAKOs commitment to quality lab results.

Committed to the U.S. MilitaryAt MAKOs founding, leaders carved out divisions of the company to hire U.S. military veterans. These teams are foundational to MAKOs elite and high-touch client services model. In November 2020, MAKO held its first Veterans Day lunch to honor veterans. The company served a free meal to all Vance County veterans and their family members.

About MAKO Medical

Founded in 2014, MAKO Medical is a diagnostics partner for businesses, physicians, urgent care facilities, and hospitals around the United States. MAKO Medical has recruited chemists and scientists to provide industry-leading innovation. MAKO Medical Laboratories methods and assays are validated for reproducibility, precision, and accuracy. MAKO Medical invests heavily in state-of-the-art instrumentation and technology. To learn more, visit www.makomedical.com or www.covidfreeschools.com

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CONTACT: Seth Palmer MAKO Medical 919-653-7816 seth@npstrat.com




Critics of the Biden Administration claim the withdrawal from Afghanistan left the Taliban an arsenal of $83 billion in advanced weaponry.

Only a fraction of the U.S. aid sent to Afghanistan was actually spent on weapons and equipment.

Regardless, much of the equipment would not be of particular value to countries like Russia, China, or even Iran.

Mere days after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, critics of the operation seized on the false claim that the Biden Administration left behind an $83 billion arsenal of high-tech weapons for the Taliban to claim. Even worse, the critics say, the equipment is of intelligence value to America's enemies, like Russia and China.

In reality, the value of the scores of aircraft, thousands of ground vehicles, and hundreds of thousands of small arms is questionable at best, and would probably not be of interest even to a tech-starved adversary like Iran.

A variety of sources have made the claim, and most are accompanied by this graphic:



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Those numbers do sound impressive. According to the graphic, the Taliban inherited 22,107 Humvees, 789 wheeled armored vehicles, 169 tracked armored vehicles, and 50,000 light utility vehicles and trucks. They also received more than half a million machine guns, assault rifles, and 176 artillery pieces. In terms of military electronics, they got their hands on 162,043 radios and 16,035 pairs of night-vision goggles.

Photo credit: WAKIL KOHSAR - Getty Images

Large numbers of airplanes were also left behind. This includes 109 helicopters of U.S. and Russian origin, four C-130 Hercules transports, and more than 60 light transports, trainers, and ground-attack aircraft.

The U.S. provided all of this equipment to the Afghan security forces, including the Afghan National Army, Afghan National Police, and the Afghan Air Force. Given that the Taliban is now in total control of the country, it's reasonable to assume that the new rulers now have complete control over this massive inventory of equipment. (There are some exceptions, including Afghan government forces that fled to neighboring countries and pockets of resistance in the Panjshir Valley that may or may not still be holding out.)

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Photo credit: Anadolu Agency - Getty Images

First, let's take a look at the ground vehicles. The 22,174 Humvees are ordinary transport vehicles, and at best have value as an armored transport. The same goes for the 155 MaxxPro mine-patrol vehicles and the 634 M1117 Guardian armored cars. While the armor on these vehicles may stop small arms and shell fragments, collectively they're incapable of shrugging off weapons like anti-tank missiles or even ordinary rocket-propelled grenades. The 50,000 trucks and SUVs feature little to no armored protection. The fleet of vehicles, while large, is largely incapable of real offensive action.

The small arms category is more alarming, with 126,295 pistols, 358,530 assault rifles, and 64,363 machine guns. That's enough to outfit the active duty component of the U.S. Army. The problem for the Taliban is that most of these weapons use U.S.-made parts and ammunition. Although the Taliban conquered large stocks of government ammo, there is no domestic source of 5.56- and 7.62-millimeter bullets to keep the guns fed. Once the "liberated" ammo is gone, the guns will be useless.

Photo credit: HOSHANG HASHIMI - Getty Images

The new Taliban Air Forcewhich the new government could use to maintain their grip on the country, and even make regional mischiefhas an even more dire future. Private western contractors maintained most of the aircraft under contract and those people have long since fled the country. Most former air force pilots have also largely fled the country, terrified that the Taliban will hunt down and kill them for having supported the American side. The lack of maintenance and the pilots to fly them will likely ground the Afghan Air Force within a matter of weeks.



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All of this equipment doesn't add up to $83 billion, either. As the tweet above states, only 29 percent of the $83 billion in military aid to Afghan forces since 2002 was in the form of equipment. The rest went to training, salaries, and over costs.



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Finally, there's the question of intelligence value to America's adversaries. One Twitter account with 440,000 followers claims the equipment is an "intelligence goldmine" for our adversaries. It's easy to imagine Chinese, Iranian, and Russian spies parachuting into the country with suitcases of cash, eager to buy up abandoned American equipment. But, as Rob Lee a Marine and Ph.D student at King's College of London who specializes in tracking the Russian eventstells Popular Mechanics, "it is clear we armed them to fight insurgents, not a conventional military."

"The most sensitive equipment we have," Lee explains, "is designed for a conventional war with a peer adversaryfighters, bombers, cruise missiles, and strategic-level assetsnone of which we gave to the Afghan Security Forces. Iran, Russia, and China have all gotten their hands on American military equipment. In 2011, Iran seized a crashed RQ-170 stealth drone , and China was allowed to view wreckage of the stealth Black Hawk helicopter used in raid that killed Osama bin Ladenmuch of which is more sensitive than anything we provided to Afghanistan."

Photo credit: FAROOQ NAEEM - Getty Images

So what's the final word? Well, the loss of billions in military equipment is unfortunate, but it really won't help the Taliban become a threat to its neighbors, let alone America. The real loss is 38 million people to the Taliban and their repressive policies.

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FILE PHOTO: A logo of Renault carmaker is seen in Paris

By Yilei Sun and Sarah White

BEIJING/PARIS (Reuters) - Renault is in advanced discussions to end its joint venture to build vans with China's state-backed Brilliance, a source close to the matter said, as the French firm overhauls its struggling Chinese operations.

The tie-up dates back to 2017, when Renault and Brilliance China Automotive Holdings Ltd set up manufacturing operations in Shenyang, the provincial capital of Liaoning, and set out to make a push into electric commercial vans in particular.

The Chinese market has proved difficult for some foreign producers, however, with sales faltering right before the COVID-19 pandemic, which walloped the industry.

Renault last year ditched its main passenger car business in China following poor sales at its loss-making venture with Dongfeng Motor Group. But it is making a fresh attempt to crack the market with Geely Holding Group, announcing in August a hybrid vehicle joint venture.

Renault said in a statement its joint venture with Brilliance was still beset by challenges despite a transformation plan set out in June 2020, but declined to comment on its possible end.

"We do not comment on market speculation," it said. "The two shareholders have brought a lot of support (to the venture) and are in regular contact about the development of the group."

Brilliance had no immediate comment.

Brilliance's parent Huachen Group has defaulted on billions of yuan in debt obligations. Chinese regulators have launched an investigation into possible violations of disclosure laws by the company.

France's Les Echos newspaper, which reported the possible end of the tie-up, said the matter would be discussed at a board meeting of the joint venture this month.

Brilliance had not promised future investments in the joint venture for new models, the source close to the matter said, adding to Renault's doubts about the operation.

(Reporting by Yilei Sun in Beijing and Sarah White in Paris; Editing by Keith Weir and Mark Potter)
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / The Law Offices of Vincent Wong announce that class actions have commenced on behalf of certain shareholders in the following companies. If you suffered a loss you have until the lead plaintiff deadline to request that the court appoint you as lead plaintiff. There will be no obligation or cost to you.

Live Ventures Incorporated (NASDAQ:LIVE)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/live-ventures-incorporated-loss-submission-form?prid=19436&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: October 12, 2021

Class Period: December 28, 2016 - August 3, 2021

Allegations against LIVE include that: 1) Live's earnings per share for FY 2016 was actually only $6.33 per share; (2) the Company used an artificially low share count to boost the earnings per share by 40%; (3) Live had overstated pretax income for fiscal 2016 by 20% by including $915,500 of "other income" related to certain amendments that were not negotiated until after the close of the fiscal year; (4) Live's acquisition of ApplianceSmart did not close during first quarter 2017; (5) using December 30, 2017 as the "acquisition date" and recognizing income therefrom did not conform to generally accepted accounting principles; (6) by falsely stating that the acquisition closed during the quarter, Live recognized bargain purchase gain, which enabled the Company to report positive net income in what would otherwise have been an unprofitable quarter; (7) between fiscal 2016 and fiscal 2018, Live's CEO received approximately 94% more in compensation than was disclosed to investors; and (8) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

Selectquote, Inc. (NYSE:SLQT)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/selectquote-inc-loss-submission-form?prid=19436&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: October 15, 2021

Class Period: February 8, 2021 - May 11, 2021

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Allegations against SLQT include that: (1) SelectQuote's 2019 cohort was underperforming; (2) as a result, the Company's financial results would be adversely impacted; and (3) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

Sesen Bio, Inc. (NASDAQ:SESN)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/sesen-bio-inc-loss-submission-form?prid=19436&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: October 18, 2021

Class Period: December 21, 2020 - August 17, 2021

Allegations against SESN include that: (1) Sesen Bio's clinical trial for its cancer treatment product, Vicineum, had more than 2,000 violations of trial protocol, including 215 classified as "major"; (2) three of Sesen Bio's clinical investigators were found guilty of "serious noncompliance," including "back-dating data"; (3) Sesen Bio had submitted the tainted data in connection with the Biologics License Application ("BLA") for Vicineum; (4) Sesen Bio's clinical trials showed that Vicineum leaked out into the body, leading to side effects including liver failure and liver toxicity, and increasing the risks for fatal, drug-induced liver injury; (5) as a result of the foregoing, the Company's BLA for Vicineum was not likely to be approved; (6) as a result of the foregoing, there was a reasonable likelihood that Sesen Bio would be required to conduct additional trials to support the efficacy and safety of Vicineum; and (7) as a result of the foregoing, Defendants' positive statements about the Company's business, operations, and prospects were materially misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis.

To learn more contact Vincent Wong, Esq. either via email vw@wongesq.com or by telephone at 212.425.1140.

Vincent Wong, Esq. is an experienced attorney who has represented investors in securities litigations involving financial fraud and violations of shareholder rights. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Vincent Wong, Esq.

39 East Broadway

Suite 304

New York, NY 10002

Tel. 212.425.1140

Fax. 866.699.3880

E-Mail: vw@wongesq.com

SOURCE: The Law Offices of Vincent Wong





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https://www.accesswire.com/663373/SHAREHOLDER-ALERT-LIVE-SLQT-SESN-The-Law-Offices-of-Vincent-Wong-Reminds-Investors-of-Important-Class-Action-Deadlines




By Michelle Rose

KINGSTON, ON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - SnapCab, an office pod manufacturer operating out of Kingston, Ontario, Canada, won multiple DNA Paris Design Awards for 2021.

DNA Paris Awards Winner Badge (CNW Group/SnapCab)

In the category of Product Design/Furniture & Lighting, the SnapCab Meet 2 was the winner. Designed for productivity, the Meet 2 is a quiet sanctuary for those working from home. Stepping through the pod's door leaves the noise and distractions of the home behind, and offers a professional, focused space for you to do your best work.

Being smaller in size than SnapCab's other office pods, the Meet 2 is meant to fit comfortably in your home. A quiet ceiling fan ensures that fresh air is circulated continuously throughout your time in the workspace. The finishes, furniture, and accessories can be customized to adapt to your needs and look.

In the Product Design/Responsible Design category, the SnapCab Care took first place. The Care was created through collaboration between Kingston's medical community and SnapCab's design team. Conceived as a solution for providing privacy in a large medical space, the first of its kind was installed in the Kingston Health Sciences Centre COVID-19 Assessment Centre.

The Care combines a private doctor's office with a HEPA filter air intake and one-way glass to allow doctors to keep an eye on the medical facility, as well as an examination area for patients who require more critical care. The Care was designed to face the wall so a gurney can be wheeled around the corner for ease of access and privacy. Plus, its heavy-duty casters allow it to be easily moved across the floor or reassembled in a new location when desired.

The new SnapCab Consult received an Honorable Mention in the Commercial and Offices category. The Consult allows for safe face-to-face consultation and collaboration. It is a mobile pod split into two smaller rooms separated by a glass partition. With air ventilation top of mind during the pandemic, each side of the pod is equipped with a dedicated HEPA filter. The sound-blocking exterior glass doors provide audio privacy and keep out distracting noise.

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The SnapCab Work+ received Honorable Mentions in both the Workplace and the Furniture & Lighting categories. It is a spacious workspace for one, with an adjustable height desktop and fully customizable options.

Not only are each of these pod products air safe, but they're also seismic certified, UL Listed, and easy to clean, as are all SnapCab Workspace products.

"We're honored to be recognized for these new pod products that were ultimately designed as a response to needs during the pandemic," says Glenn Bostock, SnapCab founder, CEO and lead designer. "Our main focus is on providing useful service to our customers, and now that many people are returning to the workplace, we are happy to be able to provide products that help people focus on their important tasks while keeping them safe."

About SnapCab

Since 1983, SnapCab has been a leader in developing workspace privacy solutions and elevator cab interiors that are flexible, high quality and safe to use in a variety of environments. SnapCab Workspace offers a flexible kit of parts that is designed with a customizable frame, panels, finishes, colors, furniture, accessories and more. These isolated pods for the open office are moveable, simple to clean and can be combined with the SnapCab Connects walls to transform any workplace.

SnapCab Care at COVID Assessment Center (CNW Group/SnapCab)

SnapCab Care at COVID Assessment Center (CNW Group/SnapCab)

Meet 2 Home Office Pod (CNW Group/SnapCab)

Meet 2 Home Office Pod (CNW Group/SnapCab)

Meet 2 Office Pod (CNW Group/SnapCab)

SnapCab Logo (CNW Group/SnapCab)

Cision

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SOURCE SnapCab
(Oslo/Odda, 09.09.2021) Statkraft, Europes largest producer of renewable energy and Swedish metals company Boliden has signed a new, extended power contract securing competitive power to the companys smelter in Odda, Norway. The contract includes deliveries of 1.6 TWh/year with a duration of 15 years from the upgraded smelter starts operations in 2024.



Boliden is investing heavily in Norway and recently made an investment decision to increase the smelting capacity in Odda from the current 200,000 to 350,000 tonnes per year. The expansion and upgrade of the plant constitutes one of the largest onshore investments in Norway in many years and increases the annual power demand by 700 GWh.

The power agreement forms the basis for producing the world's most climate-efficient zinc in Odda. The expansion of the business that we are now starting, is an important investment in the future both for us and society as a whole, says Mats Gustavsson, energy director at Boliden.

We are proud to secure the power supply to an upgraded and expanded smelter in Odda. The agreement is another example of renewals and extensions of long-term power contracts to Norwegian industry, confirming Statkraft's position as the main supplier of electricity to power-intensive industry in Norway, says Statkrafts Executive Vice President for Marketing and IT, Hallvard Granheim.

About Statkraft

Statkraft is a leading company in hydropower internationally and Europes largest generator of renewable energy. The Group produces hydropower, wind power, solar power, gas-fired power and supplies district heating. Statkraft is a global company in energy market operations. Statkraft has 4,600 employees in 18 countries.



About Boliden

Boliden is a metals company with a focus on sustainable development. Our roots are Nordic, our market global. Our core competence lies within the fields of exploration, mining, smelting and metal recycling. Boliden has around 6,000 employees and an annual turnover of SEK 50 billion. The share is listed in the Large Cap segment on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm.

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For further information, please contact:

Lars Magnus Gunther, press spokesperson, Statkraft AS

Tel.: 0047 91 24 16 36

E-mail: lars.gunther@statkraft.com

Klas Nilsson, Communications Director, Boliden

Tel.: 0046 70 453 65 88

E-mail: klas.nilsson@boliden.com




LONDON, Sept 9 (Reuters) - Britain's medical regulator on Thursday gave the go-ahead for Pfizer and AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine to be used in any future booster programme, but said any decision on boosters being used was for vaccine advisers.

"I am pleased to confirm that the COVID-19 vaccines made by Pfizer and AstraZeneca can be used as safe and effective booster doses. This is an important regulatory change as it gives further options for the vaccination programme," said June Raine, chief executive of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

"It will now be for the (JCVI) to advise on whether booster jabs will be given and if so, which vaccines should be used," she added, referring to Britain's Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation. (Reporting by Alistair Smout; editing by William James)
Product photos are available at: https://bit.ly/3yQ42PW

OTTAWA, ON, Sept. 8, 2021 /CNW/ - The food recall warning issued on September 6, 2021 has been updated to include additional product information. This additional information was identified during the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) food safety investigation.

European Butcher is recalling European Butcher brand Bacon "Chuncks" and Smoked Side Bacon Slices from the marketplace due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Consumers should not consume the recalled products described below.

The following products have been sold in Ontario.

Recalled products

Brand Product Size UPC Codes European Butcher Bacon "Chuncks" Variable (approx. 200 g) Variable Batch #30210

All Best Before dates European Butcher Smoked Side Bacon Slices Variable Variable Batch #30210

All Best Before dates

What you should do

If you think you became sick from consuming a recalled product, call your doctor.

Check to see if you have the recalled products in your home. Recalled products should be thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased.

Food contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes may not look or smell spoiled but can still make you sick. Symptoms can include vomiting, nausea, persistent fever, muscle aches, severe headache and neck stiffness. Pregnant women, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk. Although infected pregnant women may experience only mild, flu-like symptoms, the infection can lead to premature delivery, infection of the newborn or even stillbirth. In severe cases of illness, people may die.

Background

This recall was triggered by the CFIA's inspection activities. The CFIA is conducting a food safety investigation, which may lead to the recall of other products. If other high-risk products are recalled, the CFIA will notify the public through updated Food Recall Warnings.

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The CFIA is verifying that industry is removing the recalled products from the marketplace.

Illnesses

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.

SOURCE Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

Cision

View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/September2021/08/c4720.html
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- UPMC, a leading academic medical center, has implemented Infectious Disease Connect's powerful platform for antimicrobial stewardship and infectious diseases (ID) decision support to centralize and improve ID treatment across the health system.

ID Connect - UPMC

"ID Connect's ILUM Insight Platform provides us with actionable alerts to provide real-time interventions related to antibiotic use," said Ryan Bariola, M.D., co-director, antimicrobial stewardship outreach, UPMC. "This innovative platform also has improved the workflow of our infectious disease pharmacists and their communication with health care providers at the bedside, resulting in better and faster care for patients."

ID Connect is a portfolio company of UPMC Enterprises, the innovation, commercialization and venture capital arm of UPMC, and also is backed by the Merck Global Health Innovation Fund. The Pittsburgh-based company provides hospitals with timely, telemedicine-enabled consultations with infectious disease experts and offers its sophisticated clinical decision support platform, parts of which are now implemented at 20 of UPMC's hospitals.

ID Connect's software helps ID pharmacists and doctors select the most appropriate antimicrobial therapy while managing toxicity, costs and the potential for drug resistance and transmission of infection. Using machine learning, the technology also can combine a patient's demographic factors, medication history, past hospitalizations, risk factors and other data to generate individualized treatment recommendations.

"With growing threats globally from deadly infectious diseases and increasing antibiotic resistance, it's important for us to give our hospital partners new and better tools to face these challenges," said Dave Zynn, president and chief executive officer of ID Connect. "These valuable solutions provide the kind of real-time, patient-centered intelligence that our health care customers are demanding."

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ID Connect serves more than 40 facilities in nine states, combining advanced technology with deep infectious disease expertise. The company estimates that it has helped its customers reduce patient transfers by up to 40%, cut antibiotic use by 30% and reduced days of treatment per 1,000 patients by 40%. In December 2020, Infectious Disease Connect's products and services received top quality and satisfaction scores from KLAS Research based on customer feedback.

To read this release online or share it, visit http://www.upmc.com/media/news/090921-ID-Connect-ILUM Insight.

About Infectious Disease Connect

Spun out of leading academic medical center UPMC, ID Connect is a world leader in telemedicine-enabled care of infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship, and infection control and prevention. Our technology, precision medicine, and data science are paired with world-class ID physicians to effectively manage infectious diseases across the U.S. At ID Connect, we strive to make people healthy, improve outcomes, and keep our communities free of infectious diseases. For more information, go to www.idctelemed.com

About UPMC

A $23 billion health care provider and insurer, Pittsburgh-based UPMC is inventing new models of patient-centered, cost-effective, accountable care. The largest nongovernmental employer in Pennsylvania, UPMC integrates 92,000 employees, 40 hospitals, 800 doctors' offices and outpatient sites, and a more than 4 million-member Insurance Services Division, the largest medical insurer in western Pennsylvania. In the most recent fiscal year, UPMC contributed $1.7 billion in benefits to its communities, including more care to the region's most vulnerable citizens than any other health care institution, and paid more than $900 million in federal, state and local taxes. Working in close collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences , UPMC shares its clinical, managerial and technological skills worldwide through its innovation and commercialization arm, UPMC Enterprises, and through UPMC International. U.S. News consistently ranks UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside among the nation's best hospitals in many specialties and ranks UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh on its Honor Roll of America's Best Children's Hospitals. For more information, go to UPMC.com .

CONTACT: Jennifer Chaparro, ID Connect

Mobile: 412-260-8904

Email: jchaparro@idctelemed.com

Contact: Wendy Zellner, UPMC

Office: 412-568-9777

Mobile: 412-973-7266

Email: ZellnerWL@upmc.edu

Cision

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SOURCE UPMC
TORONTO, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While Canada drags its feet on reintroducing legislation that would ban cosmetic animal testing, Mexico announces it has become the first country in North America to ban the cruel and outdated practice. Canadian legislators should be ashamed, says Liz White, leader of the Animal Protection Party of Canada.



"The majority of Canadians support making cosmetic animal testing illegal," said Twyla Francois, Humane Cosmetic Researcher for Animal Alliance of Canada. "In December 2015 Bill S-214, the Cruelty-Free Cosmetics Act, was introduced to the Senate. The bill, which received support across party lines, would have made it illegal to test cosmetic products and their ingredients on animals in Canada, and banned the sale of cosmetic products that had been newly tested on animals in other parts of the world. Unfortunately, Bill S-214 died in the summer of 2019 when Parliament prorogued."

On June 3, 2019, during Private Members Business in the House of Commons, Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, stated, "For years, the Government of Canada has been publicly committed to eliminating animal testing for cosmetics and to the responsible and ethical use of animals for human health research."

"Ms. Damoffs statement raises the very real concerns about the Liberal governments failure to keep its promise to introduce a new bill," continued White. "What is to prevent the Party from failing to keep their promise yet again? Our goal is to secure a minority government where collaboration across party lines is more likely to result in real robust cruelty-free legislation."

Cruelty-free cosmetics are becoming the global mainstream. Over forty major markets, including the EU, Australia, Colombia, Israel, New Zealand and now Mexico, have already enacted comparable restrictions, and legislation is in the works in additional countries. Yet Canada lags behind as politicians, who had the opportunity to align the country with other cosmetics markets, chose not to act.

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"What is needed now is action, not more empty promises," says White. "The Liberal government has failed animals, and every Canadian who cares about them, by not reintroducing and passing an already well-researched bill when they had the chance."

Liz White Twyla Francois, Leader, Animal Protection Party Humane Cosmetic Researcher, Animal Alliance Email: liz@animalprotectionparty.ca Email: twyla@animalalliance.ca AnimalProtectionParty.ca AnimalAlliance.ca Office: 416-462-9541 ext: 23 Mobile: 416-809-4371




NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Labaton Sucharow, a nationally ranked and award-winning shareholder rights law firm, announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Zymergen Inc. ("Zymergen" or the "Company") (NASDAQ:ZY) common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and prospectus issued in connection with the Company's April 2021 initial public offering ("IPO"). Zymergen investors have until October 4, 2021, to file a motion to serve as lead plaintiff.

On August 3, 2021, less than four months after its IPO, the Company issued a disappointing business update and revised its financial forecast citing "issues with its commercial product pipeline." Additionally, the Company announced that its CEO Josh Hoffman would be stepping down from his role, effective immediately. On this news, the Company's stock price plummeted over 70%. The Company now stands accused of issuing a registration statement that was materially false and misleading and omitting to state material adverse facts.

If you purchased stock of ZY and want to receive additional information and protect your investments free of charge, please contact David J. Schwartz using the toll-free number (800) 321-0476 or via email at david@labaton.com.

About the Firm

Labaton Sucharow LLP is one of the world's leading complex litigation firms representing clients in securities, antitrust, corporate governance and shareholder rights, and consumer cybersecurity and data privacy litigation. Labaton Sucharow has been recognized for its excellence by the courts and peers, and it is consistently ranked in leading industry publications. Offices are located in New York, NY, Wilmington, DE, and Washington, D.C. More information about Labaton Sucharow is available at labaton.com.

CONTACT:

David J. Schwartz

(800) 321-0476

david@labaton.com

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SOURCE: Labaton Sucharow LLP





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/663379/ZY-DEADLINE-REMINDER--Labaton-Sucharow-Reminds-Zymergen-Inc-Investors-of-October-4-in-Securities-Class-Action-Lawsuit




The folks at the Kennedy Center and American Dance Movement are excited to invite people of all ages and abilitiesfrom tots to professionalsto join them for the 12th annual National Dance Day. Launched in 2010 by ADM co-founders Nigel Lythgoe and Adam Shankman, in partnership with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, the event is typically celebrated on the third Saturday of September and has attracted as many as 1,200 participants throughout the years.

Performances and demonstrations in a spectrum of styles and genres will celebrate the joy of dance and movement and the benefits of physical activity through dance, ranging from improved cardiovascular health to promoting self-confidence, self-expression and social skills. An event that is always packed with fun, creativity and innovation, this years celebration has been expanded to three days, from Sept. 16-18. National Dance Day is part of the Kennedy Centers 50th anniversary weekends and the Millennium Stages Summer Series, which has invited the community to participate in a broad range of free interactive events since last May.

All performances and demonstrations will be held at the Plaza of the Kennedy Centers REACH campus, an outdoor venue that provides plenty of room for participants to spread out, as well as an expansive video wall for viewing this years featured films.
Sen. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond

The removal of this painful monument would not have happened if not for the community leaders who fought long odds to make this historic moment a reality. I drive past the Lee statue every day on my way to the Capitol. Removing this statue is like lifting a weight off of our shoulders. This statue has represented and triggered 400 years of trauma for the Black community. Now, the statue is gone  but our work remains to address the systemic results of white supremacy.

Gov. Ralph Northam

The statue of Robert E. Lee has finally come down  the last Confederate statue on Monument Avenue, and the largest in the South. The public monuments reflect the story we choose to tell about who we are as a people. It is time to display history as history, and use the public memorials to honor the full and inclusive truth of who we are today and in the future.

Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., on Twitter

A powerful moment in Virginia this morning as a symbol of injustice and pain is removed at long last.
STANDARDS of Learning test results released Aug. 26 by the Virginia Department of Education are data points that catalogue the disastrous loss of learning that occurred statewide during the COVID-19 lockdowns that began in March of 2019. They are also clear evidence that school divisions in the commonwealth were utterly unprepared to implement effective distance learning.

In addition to overall declines in reading, math and science, the SOL scores of low-income and minority students plunged even further, adding to already large achievement gaps and literally erasing months of student achievement.

2020-21 pass rates reflect disruptions to instruction caused by the pandemic, decreased participation in state assessment programs, pandemic-related declines in enrollment, fewer retakes, and more flexible opt-out provisions for parents concerned about community spread, acknowledged Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction James Lane. What matters now is where we go from here.

Indeed. But pre-pandemic SOL scores in the Fredericksburg area were already bad: one in five local youngsters could not meet the states minimum grade-level expectations in reading and math during the 2017-18 and 2018-19 school years. So when the SOL pass rates go from bad to worse, as they did this year, a return to normal should not be the goal.
Join final Frazier-Mason ride this Sunday

Fifteen years ago, on Feb. 6, 2007, Josh Frazier, USMC, was gunned down by a sniper in Al Ramadi, Iraq. The next day a family member suggested to his father Rick that they should take a memorial ride.

Rick suggested they invite Vick and Christine Mason. Their son, Nick Mason, USANG, had been killed on Dec. 21, 2004, in a suicide bombing inside a mess hall in Mosul, Iraq.

From this idea, the biker community came together through Big Daddy Leather, aka Doug and Michelle Cantrell, and had the first FrazierMason Some Gave All Memorial Motorcycle Ride that summer. The ride started at Spotsylvania High School, where Josh attended, and went to King George High School, where Nick attended.

This gathering has happened every year, except last year.

On Sept. 12, bikers will gather for the last Frazier-Mason ride. It has been an incredible event. The families have put in uncountable hours, physically and emotionally. Their efforts have benefited, and continue to benefit, those who have been wounded during the Global War on Terror.
After 10 years of never being challenged, and as long as we dont administer it any differently, theres no reason to believe that it will be challenged, he said. And even if it is and even if we use those funds, we can replace them. Well take care of it.

Councilmember Mark Legband also said the fund would only be used temporarily and not entirely.

We may have to use it for a while until we get the SAFER grants or until we find other means, he said. But were not talking about depleting it.

A motion by Jensen to indefinitely continue the item failed with a 3-4 vote.

Ellis said he didnt believe the city getting a SAFER grant was probable and that funding for firefighters could be found elsewhere.

I believe that the best thing for us to do is simply just not hit the hornets nest and let that fund sit there until we as a city decide where were going to go with this, he said.

Spellerberg said the council had meetings in the past to discuss using the fund to pay for other items, including improvements to the police department in 2017.
The ordinance also removed one position, human resources tech I, and added to the utility salary ordinance and removed the office associate temporary classification, which is no longer utilized.

Weve also added new positions for police captain and community crisis responder to reflect structure changes and additional services being added by the police department, McDuffee said.

Councilmember Glen Ellis questioned if cost-savings could be made by lowering some of the percentages and asked if calculations could be brought to a future meeting.

I do want to pay our employees with the comparable, but I also think that theres ways that we maybe can not take a big bite of the apple, he said. Maybe we could nibble at it now and then take another nibble in two years and get everyone where they need to be.

Although Councilmember Brad Yerger made a motion to continue the first reading in order to get more information on comparisons, it failed to gain a second.

We have some significant bump, we have some significant administrative overhead relative to the mean income in this city, and I think its appropriate for us to look at all of the options that we have, he said.
PHOENIX (AP)  Arizona state Rep. Bret Roberts abruptly announced Wednesday he's resigning from the Legislature, just two weeks after he filed to run for reelection.

The Republican from Maricopa said stepping down is what's best for his family. His resignation is effective Sept. 30.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve with you, the Republican caucus, and the entire House, he wrote in a brief message addressed to his constituents and colleagues and posted on Twitter. I wish you all nothing but the best going forward and am confident that the House, will continue to do the peoples work on behalf of all Arizonans.

Roberts did not initially give a reason for his departure. Later, he tweeted, after much consideration this decision was made merely on the basis that it is best for our family.

Republican Speaker Rusty Bowers called Roberts a strong, consistent champion for the Republican caucus and his constituents in Legislative District 11, which stretches from Maricopa and Casa Grande in Pinal County to the northern reaches of the Tucson metro area.

I appreciate his service to the House and the State of Arizona, Bowers said in a statement. He will be missed."
Colorado Politics senior political reporter

Joey Bunch is the senior correspondent and deputy managing editor of Colorado Politics. His 32-year career includes the last 16 in Colorado. He was part of the Denver Post team that won the Pulitzer Prize in 2013 and he is a two-time finalist.
Dolores S. Atencio received her J.D. from the University of Denver College of Law and was licensed in Colorado in 1981. She is the Visiting Scholar at the University of Denver Latinx Center | Sturm College of Law. Mario M. Carrera is the party-unaffiliated former chairman of the 2011 Colorado Reapportionment Commission.
The El Paso County Coroner's Office identified a man who drowned in Rampart Reservoir over Labor Day weekend as a Schriever Space Force Base airman.

Members from Colorado Parks and Wildlife recovered the body of 30-year-old Ricky Teagle on Wednesday night after he drowned in a paddle boarding accident, a release from Peterson Space Force Base said. Teagle went missing Sunday.

Teagle, a defensive space control operator for the Satellite Control Network with the 22nd Space Operations Squadron, joined the Air Force in September 2018.

Ricky was selected as both the Peterson-Schriever Garrison Honor Guardsman and Ceremonial Guardsman of the Year for 2020, and Airman of the Quarter twice at the squadron level, Lt. Col. Brendon Herbeck, 22nd SOPS commander, said. His incredible professionalism, fortitude and excellence will be missed among the squadron.

The search for Teagle took parts of three days as Colorado Parks and Wildlife's Marine Evidence Recovery Team scoured the 500-acre lake, encountering boulders the size of SUVs under 180 feet of water.

This is a tragedy and we offer our condolences to the family and friends of the victim, the leader for the agency's marine team, Jim Hawkins, said.

Teagle is the 22nd person to drown in Colorado this year, Colorado Parks and Wildlife said.

The accident is under investigation, the release said.
Four teenagers were killed and a fifth was flown to a Colorado Springs hospital after an SUV collided with a semi-truck in Prowers County in southeastern Colorado on Wednesday night, the Colorado State Patrol said.

The teens were in a Ford Explorer going south on U.S. 287 just after 9:30 p.m. It was hit by a northbound semi-truck near Prowers County Road 196 near Wiley after the driver of the Explorer tried to turn left in front of the semitruck, troopers said.

The Explorer's 16-year-old male driver and three passengers  a 16-year-old male, a 15-year-old male and a 14-year-old female  were killed in the crash, troopers said.

A 15-year-old male passenger was flown to a Colorado Springs hospital. The surviving teenager was in critical condition Thursday morning, Wiley School District superintendent Jeff Bollinger said.

The Wiley School canceled classes Thursday and offered grief counseling to students and school staff members, Bollinger said.

The semi-truck driver, a 25-year-old man, was taken to a hospital and later released.

A 50-year-old passenger in the sleeper berth of the semi-truck was taken to a hospital with serious injuries, troopers said.
Colorado Springs, CO (80903)

Today

Sunny. High around 85F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low around 55F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
COVID-19 has spread rapidly in Colorado K-12 schools in the past week, with 485 additional infections, according to outbreak data the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment updated Wednesday.

That brings the total number of active cases to 886, among students and staff at elementary, middle and high schools statewide.

Schoolchildren lead the state in the highest rates of infection, epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy said at a news conference Wednesday.

But students arent just contracting the virus at schools, she said. Theyre also getting it at other locations, primarily from unvaccinated adults, Herlihy said.

Its important for parents to recognize their children are at risk potentially not just for going to school but other places, she said. Its risky to bring unvaccinated children to large gatherings.

No COVID-19 vaccine is yet available for children ages 11 and under. Of eligible teens and adults in Colorado, 74.7% have had at least one dose of the vaccine, Herlihy said.

In all categories of infections, Colorado's seven-day average is 1,593 cases, compared with 303 cases in June, she said. Nearly 100% are the new delta variant, she added.

Cases also have increased notably over the past week at assisted living and residential health care facilities, child care centers, construction companies and distribution businesses, according to statistics.

Outbreaks are a reflection of the disease trends we are seeing in the broader community, and with higher disease burden, we would expect to see an increase in the number of outbreaks, Michelle Hewitt, spokeswoman for El Paso County Public Health said in an email.

Cases in health care facilities have increased by 30% statewide in the past week, with skilled nursing seeing the largest jump of 92 new cases, for a total of 314.

Long-term care settings have experienced smaller outbreaks this year with fewer deaths, compared with 2020, Hewitt said.

There are high rates of vaccination among residents in long-term care facilities, which is critical in protecting this population, she said.

Residents ages 65 and above have the states best vaccination rate at 89.2%, Herlihy said. The age range of 40- to 64-year-olds have the second-highest rate of 74.6%.

Also of note, Beaver Run Resort and Conference Center in Breckenridge reported six cases last week, and Belly Up Aspen reported 12 concert-goers were COVID positive, despite having to show proof of vaccination or a recent negative test to attend.

A look at COVID cases in K-12 schools by county shows the states second-largest county, El Paso, has roughly two times the rate of cases in schools compared to the rest of the state.

Hewitt said the majority of cases are among unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated people, and breakthrough cases for those who have been vaccinated are usually milder.

Unvaccinated people are 5.8 times more likely to die of COVID than those who are vaccinated, Herlihy said, and 3.7 times more likely to be hospitalized from the virus.

But of the nearly 1,000 people hospitalized as of Wednesday, about 2% are age 10-19, with children ages 9 and below accounting for 1% of hospitalizations, data show.

Of Colorados 7,537 deaths attributed to COVID, 19 deaths have been of children and teens ages 0-19 years, according to American Academy of Pediatrics numbers.

Other counties with populations of 50,000 and above that also are experiencing school cases higher than the state average are Pueblo, Mesa, Larimer, Broomfield and Douglas.

Douglas County, where commissioners voted unanimously on Wednesday to withdraw from the areas Tri-County Health Department over disagreement with the departments mask mandate for schools, has 238 active cases at schools as of Wednesday.

Thats the most of any county in the state, and with a population of 336,041, its a rate of infection of 70.8 per 100,000.

The statewide rate of infection is 15.4 infections per 100,000 residents.

In contrast, among bigger counties, Adams, Arapahoe, Jefferson and Weld all are below the statewide rate for school infections.

School districts in those counties have mask mandates, with Adams, Arapahoe and Jefferson counties schools requiring masks for all staff and students indoors and on buses, and for preschoolers through eighth graders in Weld Countys Greeley-Evans School District 6.

Nineteen of Colorados 64 counties have local public health orders in place, according to state data.

Several secondary schools joined the active list this week. Douglas County High is reporting 34 cases. On the Western Slope, Fruita Middle School and Grand Junction High each has six cases. A juvenile detention facility, Grand Mesa Youth Services Center, reports seven cases.

Jefferson High School in Weld County has nine cases, Delores Huerta Preparatory High in Pueblo reported 10 cases, Skyview Middle School in El Paso County has eight cases, Mountain View High in Larimer County has nine cases and Vista Ridge High in El Paso County has 15 cases.

About 56% of Colorado adolescents ages 12-17 have received at least one dose of the vaccine, Herlihy said.

Potential exposure to the virus affects whether vaccinated people have breakthrough cases and whether unvaccinated people contract the virus, Herlihy said.

Hewitt said a recurring theme is people attending work or school while ill, which contributes to the increased spread of disease and outbreaks.

We urge people to stay home when sick or experiencing symptoms  even if they are only mild, she said. Its a powerful step to slow the spread of disease.

People who have been exposed to someone who has the virus are asked to quarantine and stay 6 feet apart, as well.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend that everyone wear masks in public indoor settings.

Gazette data specialist Evan Wyloge contributed to this article.

This article has been updated to correct the number of increases in Colorado schools.
A member of the Crips gang was arrested Tuesday outside Scheels All Sports off Interquest Parkway in northern Colorado Springs, police say.

Shortly after 1 p.m., police responded to a call from loss prevention at Scheels in regards to two customers they said were shoplifting. Both were caught on camera concealing several items into a bag. Police identified the two alleged shoplifters, but only arrested 28-year-old Clarence Thompson. The two were in Scheels for more than two hours. Police confronted both suspects as they were entering their vehicle and arrested Thompson after a struggle.

Prior to arrest, police further identified Thompson as a Crip gang member who was on parole for aggravated robbery and escape. Police say their vehicle was associated with a home invasion call for service in December.

During the arrest, Thompson struggled with police, at which point one officer located a loaded firearm in his fanny pack. Once the firearm was taken, Thompson continued to struggle but was eventually arrested and charged with possession of a weapon by a previous offender, theft, resisting arrest and domestic violence related menacing. He was subsequently taken to jail.
Colorado abortion providers and their supporters are seeing an increasing number of women from Texas after a strict law banning the procedure in their home state took effect last week.

The majority of new patients contacting Cobalt in the last week are from Texas, said a spokeswoman for the Colorado organization that advocates for abortion access and provides financial assistance to help cover patients' costs.

"Were getting a lot of requests, people asking what can they do to help with this situation in Texas," said Laura Chapin, a communications consultant with Cobalt.

A spokeswoman for Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains told Colorado Politics that as of Tuesday, around 20 women from Texas had scheduled abortions at the group's clinics in Colorado and New Mexico and added that the number was "steadily rising."

"They are coming to us from a variety of cities in Texas, including (but not limited to) Lubbock, San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Houston and Midland," Whitney Phillips, the nonprofit's vice president of brand experience, said in an email.

"We've been preparing for this in the Rocky Mountains for some time, as this isn't the first time Texas has launched political attacks on reproductive health care and we've experienced an influx," she said.

The Texas law bans abortions at around six weeks, typically before many women know they're pregnant. It allows private citizens to sue anyone involved in helping someone obtain an abortion, a novel approach to enforcement that anti-abortion advocates say could change the way restrictive abortion laws are crafted. The U.S. Supreme Court allowed the law to stand on on Sept. 2 in a 5-4 vote.

Cobalt has seen an influx of out-of-state patients seeking abortions in Colorado in recent months, said Karen Middleton, its president.

"We sounded the alarm a few weeks ago when we saw this was coming down the pike, so we do know that providers here are aware of it and have been preparing to add capacity," Chapin said.

She said Cobalt has been gearing up to raise additional money for a fund the group administers to cover the cost of the procedure and any associated travel. The group anticipates spending around $250,000 this year, Chapin noted, up from the roughly $200,000 it spent last year assisting 1,150 patients.

"That goal may be increased based on whats happening in Texas," she said.

"We want to help people who need help, so we will respond accordingly. This will definitely be an ongoing issue."

Phillips said the increase in patients from Texas is similar to the point last year when the number of that state's residents seeking care in neighboring states increased 12-fold after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott halted the procedure for nearly a month during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Here in the Rocky Mountains, we've seen this dynamic in action before," Phillips said in a statement. "Texas has enacted 25 abortion restrictions in the past decade, and in that time the number of health centers providing abortion care in that state was reduced by half, which resulted in patients traveling out-of-state, and often to our nearby Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountain health centers, for care."
Colorado abortion providers and their supporters are seeing an increasing number of women from Texas after a strict law banning the procedure in their home state took effect last week.
FILE PHOTO: An asylum-seeking migrant from Honduras and her daughter are seen before crossing the Rio Bravo river to turn themselves in to U.S Border Patrol agents to request for asylum in El Paso, Texas, U.S., in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico May 11, 2021. REUTERS/Jose Luis Gonzalez
FILE PHOTO: David Chipman, retired ATF Special Agent, testifies during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on "Protecting America from Assault Weapons" at the Capitol in Washington, U.S., September 25, 2019. REUTERS/Leah Millis
FILE PHOTO: Afghan Ambassador to the United States Roya Rahmani speaks during an interview with Reuters in Washington, U.S., February 8, 2019. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts
A view of the Garden of the Gods, Kissing Camels and Pikes Peak from Mesa Road.
Boston launches chatbot, donation platform to strengthen food access

Boston Mayor Kim Janey and the citys Office of Food Access (OFA) launched an SMS chatbot and food donation platform to strengthen its citywide food access network.

The online platform and the chatbot, which was created with help from the Mayors Office of New Urban Mechanics (MONUM), aim to give city residents a centralized source for food resource information. OFA also expects the two initiatives to connect existing programs more efficiently within the community  responding to goals in Bostons Food Access Agenda.

Ensuring every Boston resident has access to nutritious meals is essential to building an equitable City, Janey said. Im excited to introduce this creative option to reduce food insecurity. This tech tool enables residents to connect with or provide services when its most convenient for them.

The chatbot, originally introduced after the 2020 COVID-19 outbreak, allowed residents to request a grocery delivery from the citys emergency food assistance operations, according to MONUM officials. OFA Director Catalina Lopez-Ospina cited the success of the initial version as the catalyst for the tools current design.

In the first iteration of the chatbot we received very positive feedback from residents and we hope this tool helps residents navigate all the resources that are available in the City, Lopez-Ospina said.

Boston residents can access the chatbot by texting the word FOOD to a specific number  they do not need to be connected to the internet to communicate with the tool. The chatbot is available in English and seven other languages.

OFAs online platform aims to reduce overall food waste by facilitating exchanges between those that have food available for donation and those that can distribute it, or need it themselves. Organizations and individuals that wish to join the network must create an account through this portal before they can post donations. Once posted, the donations can be claimed by others on the platform.

To curb misuse, OFA approves donations posted on the platform; however, the logistics of the food exchange must be handled by the donor and the receiver. Individuals and organizations claiming a donation must contact the donor and arrange for pickup themselves.

By reducing digital and language barriers, the Office of Food Access goal is to create a more equitable food system where everyone is welcome and can be connected with the resources they need, Lopez-Ospina said.
COVID dashboard tracks county virus spread

Washoe County, Nev., which includes the popular destination Reno, is struggling with a resurgence of COVID cases  about 250 new ones per day, on average, said Scott Oxarart, communications manager at the countys Community Health District. He, along with other county workers and residents, knows this because of a dashboard Washoe uses to monitor the virus progression through the area.

At the start of the pandemic last year, however, tracking wasnt as easy. I was literally having to pick and choose data out of a spreadsheet that was being provided to me, Oxarart said.

After a few weeks, he consulted with IT staff, which recommended using Esri ArcGIS to create a dashboard that would put all the data in one place.

It just became a seamless process where the same information that our disease investigators are already collecting would just get screened to make sure theres no sensitive data that was being exposed, he said. The data was then just straight up uploaded into this platform, and it would spit out the numbers just perfectly.

Its not a fully automated process, though. The departments statistician screens the data for sensitive information before uploading the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet using an already established process required for reporting data on cases and deaths to the state and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Despite the tourism draw of Renos casinos, the county reports data only about its residents. As the pandemic has played out, though, it has made a practice of alerting health agencies in other counties when a tourist tests positive. County epidemiologists and disease investigators who study the data can sometimes determine that someone with COVID-19 was visiting from somewhere else, and they contact their hometowns to report the finding.

Recently, the county added more information, including vaccine stats, positivity rates and forward-looking data that shows whether the transmission rate is high, substantial or low. That can determine whether county leaders implement spread-mitigation strategies such as social distancing, capacity restrictions at bars and restaurants or mask mandates.

The agency also incorporated other data, such as test positivity, medical interventions and hospital capacity. The dashboards Risk Meter tab gives an at-a-glance weekly rating of transmission -- right now its very high and approaching critical -- and lists ways people can stay safe.

Other tabs provide links to find a place to get vaccinated, breakdowns on total cases and deaths by age, gender and ethnicity. A Spanish version of the dashboard is also available from the tabs.

Its completely transformed how we look at data [and] how we present information to the public, Oxarart said of the dashboard.

Its also changing how the county uses data to take action. For instance, when the agency noticed that the countys large Hispanic population had a low vaccination rate and high positivity rate, it kicked off a campaign called Mask On, Move On with promotional materials in English and Spanish. They also set up a community vaccine event at a church in a heavily hit ZIP code one Sunday and dispensed 600 doses, Oxarart said.

Along those lines, Esri makes publicly available nationwide maps that users can drill into to see where vaccination hot spots are and where they arent so that local officials can determine how to best serve those areas. Additionally, the maps show how far residents must drive or walk to reach a vaccination site.

People are using those to make a lot of decisions right now, Esri Chief Medical Officer Este Geraghty said. The two main things Im seeing are how to iteratively choose new vaccination venues and make sure that certain populations are being served.

Now, Oxarart said the county is working on how to add vaccine booster information ahead of the Sept. 20, when they will become available to the general population.

We have to show which doses are first doses as opposed to those boosters, he said. We cant just throw it all together and say we have almost 500,000 doses administered.

Beyond COVID, hed like to create a similar dashboard for other contagious illnesses. Currently, the agencys flu surveillance report is a four-page PDF. I think we absolutely need a dashboard like this because not only are people more educated about communicable disease, I think theyre going to follow flu stats more, Oxarart said. We have all that data so were definitely looking at ways we can show that data.

Other counties using geographic information systems to navigate COVID and vaccine challenges include Milwaukee County, Wisc., whose dashboard focuses on vulnerability and racial equity; Suffolk County, N.Y., whose dashboard helps officials identify people who are vaccine-hesitant or non-English speakers; and Will County, Ill., which recently held a vaccination clinic for young adults with special needs.
Govt-and-politics

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Mason City Council makes plans for $4 million in federal funding

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette Water and sewer work across Mason City could be addressed with federal funds the municipality got through the American Rescue Plan Act.

Tuesday night, during its first meeting of the month at the public library, the Mason City Council had multiple numbers to consider that ran six and seven figures long. While one of the largest items is a federal matter, others involve local work that could set Mason City up for several decades to come.

Here are a few of the larger fiscal items the council dealt with at its latest get-together:

$4,013,356: That's the amount that the city of Mason City expects to receive through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the $1.9 trillion economic stimulus bill passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden in March.

According to a memo from Mason City Finance Director Brent Hinson to Mason City Administrator Aaron Burnett, the first payment, in the amount of $2,006,678.13, was received by electronic transfer on Aug. 2. A final payment is expected in a year.

In the memo, which is found in the latest city council meeting packet, Hinson explained that the council needed to approve an agenda item that would allow the city to create a new fund to account for the money received through ARPA. Eligible uses for the fund include water and sewer projects as well areas where revenue was lost due to COVID-19.

During the meeting, Hinson further elaborated to Council Member Paul Adams that the available money would need to be spent by the end of 2024.

Members voted unanimously to approve the item.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette During the Tuesday night meeting, the Mason City Council voted 6-0 to award a bid worth about for repair work $190,000 for utilities work on the downtown hotel site.

$1 million: What a project to rehab 13-15 South Federal Avenue is expected to cost. However, Director of Development Services Steven Van Steenhuyse has noted that the work, which is being undertaken by Foxtrot Properties, does not involve any city funds.

Instead, the city is acting as an applicant for Foxtrot in its attempt to get Community Development Block Grant money from the state of Iowa. The North Iowa Area Council of Governments (NIACOG) previously helped file an application for the grant but Foxtrot is now pursing additional funding through a separate Community Development Block Grant program that's related to federal CARES Act money. That source has about $21 million in funding, while the other has just $2 million (according to Van Steenhuyse).

Any funds that are awarded will be used to create four new apartments in the South Federal Plaza area. Three of those will be available for families meeting the low-to-moderate income threshold.

A public hearing for that item will come on Tuesday, Sept. 21. Council members voted 6-0 in favor of setting the date.

$593,366: The winning bid amount for McKiness Excavating and Grading of Mason City to do sanitary sewer repair work that should wrap in August 2022. In the packet, Mason City Operations and Maintenance Manager Bill Stangler explained that the work will include sewer point repairs, manhole repairs and pipe rehabilitations across the city.

Stangler went on to note that the work is possible because of ongoing closed circuit monitoring the city previously approved. All six members of the council voted in favor of the plan.

Lisa Grouette / LISA GROUETTE, Globe Gazette During the Tuesday night meeting, the Mason City Council voted 6-0 to award a bid worth about for repair work $190,000 for utilities work on the downtown hotel site.

$156,678: What the winning bid amount ended up being for the "River City Renaissance Utilities Project" which will reroute select storm sewer lines around the area near Southbridge Mall where the downtown hotel from Hyatt is set to be built.

The project was awarded to Charlson Excavating of Clear Lake.

When it came time to discuss the item, Adams asked Burnett what the timeline would be for the utilities work. "This project will be done this year," Burnett said.

As for the overall hotel work, David Rachie, a developer on the project, said in August that financing should be completed by the end of September and construction would take 20 months from that point.

In early April, the Mason City Council approved a new timeline for the project where the developer would work to close on financing for hotel by July 1. Before that, in December 2020, there was a more tentative projection that financing and construction in early 2021 could be possible.

Multi-billion dollar energy project that would begin near Mason City currently in development phase Officials behind the SOO Green transmission line, which would run to the Chicago area, have said previously that work could be done by 2024.

Bonus number: $2.5 billion: Spokespeople for the SOO Green Line, which will run from Mason City to the Chicago metropolitan area, estimate that a new 349-mile, 2,100 megawatt energy transmission line could cost about $2.5 billion.

Before the official council meeting began, Neil Jones, a representative for the project, said that construction would start in 2023 and end by about 2026. Six miles of the line would run through the Mason City area and there would be a converter station as well.

At present, representatives for the work are going through a franchising agreement process with municipalities across Iowa where the line will run.

Former Mason City resident wants to help make Willow Creek look good as new When John Moreland went off to college at Notre Dame and later started a life for himself near Iowa City, Willow Creek stayed front of mind.

6 months of local news for just $1
Diners may show the record to restaurants in lieu of their paper vaccination card.



WELLINGTON, New Zealand  New Zealand is buying an extra 250,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine from Spain as it tries to keep a surge in vaccination rates going during an outbreak of the coronavirus in Auckland.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the doses will arrive Friday and she has also got a second, larger deal in the works with another country.

New Zealand was slow to get its vaccination rollout going but has been catching up to other developed since the outbreak of the delta variant began last month. About 55% of New Zealanders have received at least one dose.

New daily community cases have been decreasing and were down to 13 Thursday. Auckland remains in a strict lockdown and health authorities try to extinguish the outbreak entirely.



CARSON CITY, Nev.  All 17 counties in Nevada will be subject to an indoor mask mandate by the end of the week.
In 1998, recruiting international students and overseas Americans to study at Wartburg College, I visited a Department of Defense high school in Germany. A student and parent invited me to dinner at their home on a nearby base. I met the family, including the students younger brother, a handsome and smart boy. By 2005, the student graduated from Wartburg and the brother, a U.S. Army Ranger, died in combat in Afghanistan. He enlisted following 9/11. He helped defeat the Taliban. I ask myself, why did he have to die? Indeed, why did 2,440 Americans die in combat and for what have we spent $2.2 trillion? In think-tanks and newsrooms across the US, the finger-pointing and blame-laying is frenzied.

The U.S. government directly and indirectly (through Pakistan) supported the Taliban from 1979, when President Carters administration secretly supported (aided by Saudi money) Islamic jihadists to fight the USSR-backed regime. This stimulated the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Most analysts agree the invasions financial and casualty toll catalyzed the fall of the USSR.
President Bidens approval ratings continue to decline. Americans are voicing their frustration and anger over a lack of strategic withdrawal plans from Afghanistan. Leaving Americans behind is unacceptable and should never happen.

Elected leaders have stated it was a disaster, lack of planning, botched and stunning. Its not just Republicans asking for oversight into what went wrong. Sen. Jack Reed, a Democrat from Rhode Island, stated his Senate Armed Services committee will hold hearings on, what went wrong in Afghanistan. Democrat Sen. Mark Warner says he wants to ask tough but necessary questions about why we werent better prepared for a worst-case scenario involving such a swift and total collapse of the Afghan government and security forces. Republican Michael McCaul from Texas who sits on foreign affairs said, This is going to be a stain on this president. I think he is going to have blood on his hands for what they did. The U.K. Parliament condemned Biden as well.

In July, Biden was pushing a much different picture than what was really playing out in real time. He actually stated, Its highly unlikely the Taliban would take over. When Biden asks Afghan President Ghani to basically push a different picture from reality, only weeks before the takeover, he showed Americans that he is not putting our country first and our troops first.
Other than simple demographic details, very little is known when someone dies of COVID-19. The health department also doesnt discuss individual deaths.

A total of 245 residents of Danville and Pittsylvania County have lost their lives to the virus since the first death was recorded on March 25, 2020.

Testing

With a growing number of residents looking for COVID-19 testing, the state health department is expanding events around Virginia. Health officials blame the delta variant, a more contagious version of the coronavirus for the rise in infections.

While our local health departments, pharmacies and hospitals are working to keep up with the demand for testing, we are providing additional testing locations to accommodate our residents and to help reserve our hospital emergency rooms and rescue squads for medical emergencies, Laurie Forlano, deputy director with the office of epidemiology, said in a news release.

So far this month, about 170 community testing events have been staged across the commonwealth, but no local events appear to be scheduled in the coming days.
A Texas man admitted his role Wednesday in a gas pump skimming case that took more than $40,000 from nearly 300 people.

Leandro Leo Sanchez, 32, pleaded guilty in Roanokes federal court to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. He was allowed to remain free on bond pending sentencing.

Sanchez was one of about a half-dozen people involved in a scheme that operated out of Miami, authorities said.

Skimming devices were placed in gas station pumps in Clearbrook and Collinsville to capture account information from debit cards that were inserted into the machines by customers.

Once the data was accessed from the cards, it was re-encoded onto new cards that were used to withdraw cash from ATMs and make purchases from stores that included the Walmart in Clearbrook, Assistant U.S. Attorney Coleman Adams wrote in court documents.

Roanoke County police learned of the case in September 2017, when a bank customer reported that his debit card had been used without his permission at a Walmart ATM.

Reviewing footage from surveillance cameras, police identified three individuals at the ATM and later at a self-checkout register, where purchases of about $1,000 of merchandise were made with multiple cards.
The void apparently was used to help place the stone in 1887, which was the first piece of the stone work on the monument. The rest of the pedestal was constructed around it.

Theres still a chance the capsule is lower in the stone or underground, said Dale Brumfield, an author and historian who has studied the capsules history.

Workers have already moved 3,000 pounds of stone, cutting two blocks from the bases corner and picking them up with a forklift. The words Black and brown unity had been spray painted where the granite stones were cut.

A Connecticut-based company, Summit Masonry & Building Restoration, is working to excavate the capsule. Summit also removed the other Confederate statues along Monument Avenue.

If the time capsule is discovered, it will be taken to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources for opening. But Brumfield estimates theres a 90% chance its contents have been ruined by water seeping into the box.

One worker used a saw to cut a hole into one of the blocks for the placement of the new time capsule, whose contents were recently announced by Northams office.
Preserving large swaths of land has benefits of scale. It is more effective to protect the health of a stream running through, say, a 700-acre property than it is to protect the small piece of streambed on a 20-acre property. These environmental benefits apply not only to water, but to forests, grasslands and air quality.

Therefore, it is particularly disheartening to note the OIGs discovery of preservation land that contains pollutants such as old vehicles and other waste products. Virginia must do a better job of ensuring that properties receiving tax credits for preservation are meeting minimum preservation standards. The same goes for counties that have their own easement programs.

None of which is to say, however, that the state should not review its policies to open up more preservation possibilities for smaller tracts.

In fact, some critics say that the states error is to emphasize quantity over quality when it comes to land preservation.
No involvement! No collusion! It was a perfect call.

To the extent that McCarthy has control over what comes out of his mouth, what he voiced was a lie. The Senate probe avoided the question of Trumps role, and the FBI has reached no such conclusion. (McCarthy was apparently referring to a Reuters report citing anonymous sources on whether Jan. 6 was the result of a centrally controlled conspiracy.)

McCarthy himself spoke to Trump during the deadly attack. Trump told McCarthy: I guess these people are more upset about the election than you are. Afterward, McCarthy announced, accurately: The president bears responsibility for Wednesdays attack on Congress by mob rioters.

But now McCarthy embodies the corruption of truth that has consumed the GOP. He led the effort to kill an independent, bipartisan Jan. 6 commission negotiated by his own point man. He then marshaled Republican votes against the bill creating the House select committee to scrutinize the attack. Next, he appointed two saboteurs to the committee (one with an obvious conflict), and when Speaker Nancy Pelosi objected, he called a Republican boycott of the panel.
Dewey Brown has been fiddling with royalty most of his life. Picking up the fiddle at age 9 after watching his bass-playing dad entertain at cookouts with friends, Brown took lessons from J.B. Prince. And at the age of 17, he took first place in 99 at the Old Time Fiddlers Convention in Galax, Va. By the time he was 24, he was playing fiddle with bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley as a member of the Clinch Mountain Boys.

I got to go up and audition for him up at his house in Virginia one weekend and play a show, and he hired me after the show, Brown said last week by phone from his music store, Dewey Browns Music and Lessons, in Graham. Brown stayed with Stanley for 11 years, until his death in 2016.

Brown has fiddled with a plethora of country and bluegrass artists, rubbing elbows with Elvis Costello, Ricky Skaggs, Lee Ann Womack, Dierks Bentley, Buddy Miller, Gillian Welsh and Robert Plant all on one outing, Stanleys 2015 release Man Of Constant Sorrow.

Touring with Stanley took Brown around the world and gave him an in-depth musical education. He always stressed the importance of doing your job well, making sure you take care of the fans and the people who come to see you, playing honest music that he felt like he enjoyed playing himself. He knew if he enjoyed it, other people would too.
Much of the testimony in Drumwrights trial centered on the countys facility use rules, the permit process and haggling among the pastor, his attorneys, city police and the sheriffs office.

On the stand, Drumwright said he did not make the mark on the paperwork that seemed to signal he agreed to the sound amplification terms set by the county.

His legal team for the trial included defense attorneys from Greensboro and Chicago as well as legal celebrity Ben Crump.

Harrison, the prosecutor, said Drumwright had been given numerous warnings during the protest on Oct. 31.

I dont want to go too much into the weeds about the generator, the permit, the facility use policy, Harrison said, but I will say the defendant was given multiple warnings, multiple copies in multiple ways of what he was allowed to do and what he was not allowed to do.

In the months between Oct. 31 and Drumwrights trial, authorities branded him an outside agitator and danger to the community. Prosecutors tacked on felony charges that they later decided against pursuing.

Drumwrights attorneys said the charges were retaliation for a federal civil rights lawsuit that also stemmed from the days events.
A North Carolina judge is giving state lawmakers until mid-October to fully fund a plan for improving public education or else hell take direct action.

State Superior Court Judge David Lee said Wednesday that he was very disheartened that the General Assembly is funding only a small part of a plan that calls for at least $5.6 billion in new education funding by 2028. Lee said that if the plan isnt fully funded by an Oct. 18 court hearing, hell entertain options for how the court may exercise its remedial powers to remedy this Constitutional deficiency.

Judges in other states have taken steps such as fining lawmakers and holding them in contempt of court in school funding cases. Lee said he will shine a light on the options taken in those states at the next court hearing.

I dont want to hold anybody in contempt, Lee said during the hearing. I far prefer to go another route. But it wouldnt be a stretch, even at this point, for the court to find beyond a reasonable doubt a continuing and willful and conscious refusal and neglect to follow the Constitution of this state.

GOP says it wont follow order
GREENSBORO  The Board of Commissioners is working out a plan to redraw Guilford Countys eight electoral districts.

Data from the U.S. Census Bureau released in August shows that several districts are out of balance with the ideal average in the county, meaning the population has grown or decreased enough that the districts are no longer proportional.

County Attorney Mark Payne told the commissioners at a special work session on Wednesday that its absolutely plain from the 2020 census data that we have to redistrict.

For example, Payne said that population in District 4, which is largely in rural eastern Guilford County, is small relative to other fast-growing districts and will likely need to be increased. Likewise, he said, District 5 in the growing northwestern part of the county will probably be reduced.

Commissioners will accomplish that by moving precincts from district to district until they can agree on a balance.

The county will soon open a public website where residents can inspect census data and offer their own proposals for redrawing the maps.

Commissioners will look at the most feasible proposals and also consider staff-recommended maps before preparing a draft they can agree on.
About this time in the legislative session  when the session runs interminably long and little is happening  the press corps, lobbyists, legislative staffers and even some lawmakers start a pool to predict how long the session might last before adjournment. Currently, Halloween seems a pretty safe bet. I think it was 2016 when folks were decorating Christmas trees; it didnt look like they would ever adjourn.

But all this hemming and hawing comes at a price. You and I, the taxpayers, are spending about $850,000 per month to keep this circus in Raleigh and its fair to ask whether we are getting our moneys worth.

When the General Assembly convened the 2021 session on Jan. 13, it was scheduled to adjourn July 2. Our lawmakers had three primary tasks: passing a new biennial state budget; drawing new districts for congressional, legislative and local government elections; and appropriating a large accumulated surplus. On Monday, they will have been meeting for eight months and they are 0 for 3. They havent passed a budget, drawn districts or acted on the bulk of the surplus, other than saying they want to put a large amount of it into savings. Yes, theyve passed a few laws and tackled a few subjects better left alone, such as rewriting North Carolina history instruction for our schools and limiting gubernatorial powers during emergencies. I think we are seeing why we need someone who can act quickly in times of crisis. The legislature certainly doesnt.
R.I.P., truth

I dont think in my 74 years I have ever been as sad for our country as I am now. Truth has come to mean practically nothing to many in our country. As long as they hear what they want to hear, they accept it as being true.

We have politicians who are willing to say anything false if it means they will get votes.

We have a Congress that is willing to say anything false to avoid impeaching possibly the most vile, immoral man who has ever been elected and who attempted to destroy our democracy.

We have state government representatives who are willing to say anything to stop the people from voting against them and then tell lies about why they are doing it.

We have people who say they are Christians whose inner hatred toward others have supported evil politicians.

We have police officers and active military and veterans who are willing to use violence against their own brothers and sisters in law enforcement defending our government.

All of this is based on lies that they are told and want to believe as truth. The truth about lies is that you eventually pay a price for accepting them.

Lee A. Gable
Dr. Kaitlen Lawton-Betchel grew up in Lemoore. An alumni of West Hills College and Fresno Pacific University, she graduated from Midwestern University in Arizona with her doctorate of veterinary medicine and her business certificate. Dr. Kait currently practices out of Karing for Kreatures Veterinary Hospital, also known as K+K.

The hospital is located at 377 Hill St., Lemoore. To make an appointment, call 559-997-1121.

Her column runs every other Thursday.
After eight years, Todd Pate has received his sentence for murdering his wife, while her family read statements expressing their grief and anger.

Pate was convicted in July for the murder of Melanie Pate as the two were going through a divorce. At the Kings County Superior Court on Wednesday, visiting Judge Edward Lacey rejected a motion for a new trial by Eric Hamilton, Pates attorney. He then gave Pate the mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison, plus an extra year added on by a weapons enhancement.

The toll inflicted on their son, Karter, was also relayed by Wendi Rocha, who added that he dealt with severe emotional hardships as a result of losing his mother at the hands of his father. The last statement was from Karter, who was not at the sentencing, but gave a statement for Executive Assistant District Attorney Phil Esbenshade to read aloud to his father.

I dont have much to say, Karter wrote. I hope you fing rot in prison.

Karter was 12 at the time of the murder.

Several members of Melanie Pates family members and friends also confronted her murderer with written statements about what the victim meant to them, and how the death has impacted their lives.

I have many good memories of Melanie, said niece Dene Buckner. But because of [Todd], there is a dark shadow over those memories.

Im starting to forget every memory I have of her, said Kadence Latham, Buckners daughter, who was 9 when the murder happened.

Also speaking at the sentencing was friend Karin Timmerman, who relayed the amount of time between the murder and that current moment  2,886 days in total  and the emotional toll of waiting for justice in that time.

Weve been broken and he doesnt care, Timmerman said. He demonstrated that over 2,886 days.

Timmerman then went on to address Lacey in regards to Pates sentencing.

Please hold him to his wedding vows, when he promised to protect her from all evil, she said.

Afterwards, Pate was given the opportunity to speak, crying the entire time.

Ive done something horrible and awful. That morning, I took Melanies life, he said. Its wrong, what I did. I want to apologize and I have to.

He also reflected on his son, and thanked the people in Karter's life who have supported him over the last eight years.

He will have a scar  or a wound  that he will have for the rest of his life because of what I did.

Were very pleased that justice was served, though we can never bring back Melanie Pate, said Esbenshade, who led the prosecution in the case. And its obvious Melanie Pate was a treasure not just to her family, and not just to her friends, but to this entire community.
Saturday marks the 20-year anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks. A number of local ceremonies and events are scheduled to commemorate the somber date:

9/11 Flag of Honor

Rocky Mountain Development Council and AmeriCorps Seniors invite the community to attend the inaugural 9/11 Flag of Honor Across America Memorial. The event, intended to honor the nearly 3,000 lives lost 20 years ago, is set to include an address from Helena Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Mike Chambers.

AmeriCorps volunteers will then read 50 names of 9/11 victims, which will be followed by a moment of silence.

On display will be a 9/11 Flag of Honor, an American flag containing the names of all 2,983 victims.

The event is part of a nationwide effort, and the names of the other victims of the attacks will be read aloud by other participating communities.

The event is scheduled to take place at 9:02 a.m. Saturday on the walking mall behind Rocky Mountain Development Council, 200 S. Cruse Ave.

Montana Attorney General's ceremony
Biden announced his plan on Thursday that would cover roughly two-thirds of U.S. workers, as many as 100 million Americans, as the delta variant wrests away the country's grip on the pandemic obtained after vaccines became widely available. The plan includes a mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly. Workers at health facilities that receive federal funding will also have to be fully vaccinated, the Associated Press reported. Federal employees and contractors who refuse to get vaccinated could be disciplined.
The three plaintiffs  Montana Youth Action, Forward Montana Foundation and the Montana Public Interest Research Group  are suing Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, Montanas top elections' officer. The complaint has been assigned to Judge Ashley Harada.

In their lawsuit, the groups argue that voter participation among young Montanans jumped substantially during the 2020 election, adding that the three plaintiffs have been actively involved in increasing turnout among voters between the ages of 18 and 29.

In support of the new voting laws, Jacobsen and Republican lawmakers frequently argued that the changes to law were needed to shore up the integrity of elections in Montana. Arguing against that rationale, the groups cited a 2020 case in which a Missoula judge found that a group supporting the reelection campaign of then-President Donald Trump had failed to provide any evidence of election fraud in recent history in Montana.

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One Democratic lawmaker from Helena objected to that program during public comment, however, arguing that the $6 million recommendation defied the intent of legislators who had established guidelines for spending nearly $1 billion in federal relief funds.

I think that funding misses the mark," Rep. Mary Caferro said. "I was hoping that the funding would go straight into current job training programs, including apprenticeship programs that the unions run and apprenticeship programs that already exist in the two-year colleges."

Democrats on the Republican-dominated commission tried unsuccessfully to move $3 million from the states return-to-work bonus program toward short-term retraining programs to build up the labor pool of workers who would be eligible for jobs funded through upcoming infrastructure projects, also to be funded by ARPA dollars.

The commission voted unanimously to recommend spending $2 million to hire 10 temporary counselors to work with people with disabilities to find employment. Chanda Hermanson, Disability Employment and Transitions Division Administrator, told the commission that about 1,300 people had applied to the program but are currently on the wait list, and the new staff would allow the division to address the backlog.
With the celebration of Labor Day, we should all extend our thanks to the essential workers who have made it possible for us to lead lives that are reasonably normal during this tragic pandemic. The police and firefighters; the grocery store workers; the meat packers; our teachers and health care providers and so many others deserve our deepest appreciation.

I wish that our governor and Legislature had shown them the respect they deserve in the recent legislative session. They did not. Instead, the last session was marked by more financial rewards for the wealthy and more burdens and unmet needs for the rest of us.

First, they cut taxes for the richest among us. Gov. Greg Gianforte and the Republican legislators live in a different reality than the rest of us. They think the wealthy are needy. So they cut the taxes for 500 of our wealthiest by about $3,000 a year. These are the same folks who spend $10 million or more on their houses in Big Sky and Whitefish.

For the rest of us common folks, those of us earning $63,000 or less, our tax cuts ranged from zero to $14 a year.
It is quite apparent that women are no longer considered as people in Texas. The religious right in Texas, became the poster child for the movement's anti-abortion policies after the conservative majority on the Supreme Court essentially nullified the constitutional rights of millions of American women without so much as an argument.

The Texas law  and the Supreme Court's endorsement of it  is about denying the humanity of women. This is about reducing these people to mere vessels and rejecting the idea that they are autonomous human beings who have sovereignty over their bodies and their lives. In the eyes of Republican conservatives, having a uterus renders you as little more than human livestock.

The law allows any person  even a complete stranger to the person getting an abortion  to sue an abortion provider or any other person who helps with the abortion. In Texas the right to control a pregnant person's body belongs quite literally to anyone but the woman herself.

The abortion bounty hunters are permitted to go after health care providers or any other person who helps a woman get an abortion, but they cannot sue the person who wants an abortion.
Fire restrictions have been rescinded for FWP properties in Deer Lodge, Granite, Gallatin and Park counties. Stage-1 fire restrictions are still in effect for FWP properties in Madison, Beaverhead, Silver Bow, Jefferson, and Lewis and Clark counties.

Stage-1 restrictions at FWP sites ban campfires except where specifically exempted and allow smoking only in vehicles and areas 3 feet in diameter that are cleared of flammable materials. Gas or propane stoves that can be turned on and off are still allowed.

Fireworks are always prohibited at FWP sites.

Fire restrictions are in effect in other areas of Montana. For more information, visit mtfireinfo.org.

Applications accepted for hunting camps

The Belt Creek  White Sulphur Springs Ranger District of the Helena - Lewis and Clark National Forest will be accepting applications for 13 hunting camp extensions.
LINCOLN  The Abraham Lincoln Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution is hosting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier replica event in Lincoln.

The replica will be at the American Legion Post 263, 1740 5th St., from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 13, and Tuesday, Sept. 14, and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15.

The replica is one half of the size of the original Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located in Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. which is celebrating its 100th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 11.

The replica also holds the remains of unknown soldiers from World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the empty crypt of the Vietnam War.

Made with pine, composite materials, carbon-fiber, aluminum framing and retractable wheels, the replica was built by Phillip Burkhalter Builders from Rome, Ga., and is owned and managed by the Americanism Committee of the Exchange Club of Rome.

The free event is being held in honor of the 125th anniversary of the Abraham Lincoln DAR chapter.

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Democrats in Congress have spent years decrying Republican efforts to undermine voting rights, for good reason. But lately, they seem to have abandoned their effort to crack down on the most common and egregious tactic for disenfranchising voters  perhaps because theyre reluctant to give it up themselves.

The polite term for this device is redistricting. A less polite term is gerrymandering. Its actually voter suppression by another name.

Decennial Census data released last month has started a new round of this anti-democratic mapmaking. Heres how it works in most states. The majority party draws legislative and congressional districts to maximize their number of seats. District lines split communities, zigzag through neighborhoods and connect far-flung areas that have little in common. Incumbents are protected, challengers can find their homes moved into different districts, and computer modeling turns Election Day into a foregone conclusion.

As a result, few races are truly competitive  and competition is what brings people to the polls. States that are closely divided between Democrats and Republicans end up with lopsided delegations. In Ohio, for instance, Republicans have won 12 out of 16 House seats in every election since the last redistricting, despite never winning much more than half the votes. The saying that legislators now choose their voters more than voters choose their legislators has some truth. One can hardly blame citizens for choosing not to participate.

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Congressional Democrats say they want to put an end to this, but the voting rights bill they passed last month didnt touch it. Instead, the measure would have required states with a history of other forms of voter suppression to get preclearance from the U.S. Department of Justice before changing their election rules.

That was the law of the land from 1965 through 2013, when the Supreme Court declared that the basis for determining which states and localities (mostly in the South) needed preclearance was unconstitutional. Theres a strong case for modernizing and restoring preclearance, as Democrats want to do, but Senate Republicans are opposed. So it has been since March, when Democrats passed the For the People Act, an everything-but-the-kitchen-sink approach to election reform that included all manner of provisions, including public financing of campaigns.

Parts of the For the People Act might have won Republican backing if Democrats had broken the bill into separate components. One such piece was the bills ban on partisan gerrymandering and its creation of independent commissions  composed of an equal number of Democrats, Republicans and independents  to draw district lines. A handful of states have adopted this method, and voters have overwhelmingly backed it in referenda, with support cutting across party lines.

To be sure, winning 10 Republican votes in the Senate for redistricting reform wouldnt have been easy. Republicans control more state governments than Democrats do and are reluctant to give up their advantage. For the same reason, Democrats failed to support redistricting reform when they controlled Congress and the presidency after the 2008 elections. But some type of redistricting reform stood a fighting chance. Instead, in the months ahead, both Democrats and Republicans will again seek to turn their states as blue and red as possible, by drawing maps that determine election outcomes before any citizen casts a ballot.

The process lends credence to otherwise bogus complaints that elections are rigged. In this respect, they are  and both parties are to blame.

The right to vote is fundamental. Its being abridged not just by Republican efforts to restrict access to the ballot box, but also by Democratic reluctance to make redistricting reform a higher priority.

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BRISTOL Tenn.  The Bristol Tennessee Police Department has earned top honors from the Tennessee Highway Safety Office for its ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety.

Last month, the BTPD was named the states overall winner and also received first place for departments with 71-100 police officers at the states 17th annual Law Enforcement Challenge.

The annual competition rates law enforcement agencies across the state for policies and programs designed to encourage the use of seat belts, child passenger safety seats and to combat speeding, impaired driving and distracted driving.

Forty-five agencies participated in this years challenge.

The award ceremony was held Aug. 20 in Franklin in conjunction with the THSOs 33rd annual Lifesavers Conference. Bristol Officer Josh Graham and Lt. Jimmy Dillard accepted the awards.

Were grateful for this state-wide recognition that acknowledges our ongoing efforts to make Bristol a safe place to live, Police Chief Matt Austin said in a news release Wednesday.

Austin said it takes the entire community working together to keep the citys streets safe.
BRISTOL, Va.  For Victoria Hamilton, it doesnt matter that two decades have now passed since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Her memories from Manhattan that day  the high-rise balcony where she watched the Twin Towers in horror, the smell of burning metal, the welcome back sign for the friend who never came home  feel as close as yesterday, she said.

Its just like [for] somebody whos been in the war and then they come home, the 72-year-old said at the Griffins U-Store-It in Bristol, Virginia, where she works. You go about your business, but in the back of your mind, its always there. Its always there.

Hamilton, who now lives in Bluff City, grew up in North Carolina and moved to New York City in 1966, the day she turned 18. The metropolis immediately felt like home, she said. Thirty-five years later, in 2001, it still did. At that point, Hamilton was managing the top two floors of the Dag Hammarskjold Tower, a high-end, high-rise condo building just blocks from her home in midtown Manhattan.

We had a health club, a pool and a big reception room, and this was all on the top of the building, with a panoramic view of Manhattan, Hamilton said.
Be prepared

Some health officials are warning the public to be careful if they plan to attend these events  or other similar gatherings this fall.

Theres no zero risk, said Breanne Forbes Hubbard, the public health manager for the Mount Rogers Health District in Southwest Virginia.

We really want people to be vaccinated before they go to large events like this, Hubbard said. Any time youre doing anything right now, theres a risk of getting COVID-19.

But you can be cautious, she said.

If you are vaccinated and you are wearing a mask, and you have tested negative, and you are sticking to the edges of the crowds, you are going to be at a lot less risk than if you are not vaccinated and not wearing a mask in the middle of a large crowd, Hubbard said.

Youre at a much greater risk of getting sick if youre not vaccinated, Hubbard said. We have been encouraging vaccinations for almost 10 months now.

Double masking

Dr. Amit Vashist has been working with COVID-19 patients  for about 18 months  in the region served by Ballad Health.
One study of the U.S. Department of Justices list of terrorism-related convictions from 2001 to 2010 found that 72% were cases of preemptive prosecution, in which the basis for conviction was the defendants perceived ideology and not his/her actual criminal activity. The logic is: If you are sufficiently Muslim, you are sufficiently guilty.

Globally, the picture is no better. In 2012, The New York Times broke a story about Terror Tuesdays, President Barack Obamas practice of meeting with his advisers every Tuesday to determine the list of supposed terrorists to be assassinated. This list sometimes included U.S. citizens, such as the Yemeni-born cleric Anwar al-Awlaki, who was killed in a 2011 drone strike. His 16-year old son was killed in a drone strike two weeks later.

No one has been held accountable for these extra-judicial killings because these brown and Muslim lives apparently do not matter.

The Times also revealed that in an attempt to limit civilian casualty figures, the Obama administration simply reclassified them by designating all military age men in targeted areas as combatants unless proven innocent after their deaths.
Jayne suggested before the bond was granted that Tangela stay with her parents and said her parents will follow any conditions Judge Bell decided and they have respect for the law. When they received a call from their daughter  and they learned she was in Phoenix, it was her family that called the authorities and let them know where she was.

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Sigmon clarified that it was Tangelas son who called the authorities and told them where Tangela and Eric Parker were hiding.

It doesnt get any more obvious that this defendant would run again if given the opportunity, Sigmon said.

This is not the type of person that should be granted a bond, he continued. There is absolutely no reason for her to stay here. She knows shes looking at life in prison. She knows the evidence against her is overwhelming. If this court grants her a bond and she can make it, I think shes in her 50s and her parents are in their 70s. I dont think they could stop her if she decides to flee again.

Judge Bell granted the bond with the conditions that only Tangela Parkers parents could pay it, she would have to live with her parents in Caldwell County, she would be electronically monitored and she would not be permitted to go anywhere except to doctors appointments or to meet with her attorney.
An optical fiber production company is expanding its Claremont plant and plans to create 50 new jobs.

Prysmian Group, based in Italy, is investing $50 million in its Claremont optical fiber production plant on Penny Road, according to a news release from the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation.

The expansion will be funded in part by a $375,000 building reuse grant from the state awarded to the city of Claremont for the project.

With this $50 million investment, Prysmian Groups current and future capital investments total $130 million since 2014, according to the release.

Prysmian Group is committed to support the growth necessary to expand access to high-speed broadband in North America, said Andrea Pirondini, chief executive officer of Prysmian Group North America.

The company is seeing a high demand for optical fiber in the region, Pirondini said in the news release.

With these investments, we can continue to meet customer needs in support of 5G development in the U.S. and Canada, he said.

Prysmian Group has four telecom production sites in the United States, according to the news release.
NEW YORK (AP)  Former CBS News President Susan Zirinsky is launching a studio for unscripted programming, with two 9/11-related documentaries debuting over the next two days.

Zirinsky hopes the name See It Now Studios conveys a sense of urgency for younger viewers while reminding the historically-minded of the 1950s-era CBS News series, See It Now, featuring Edward R. Murrow.

Her No. 2 at the new studio will be an ABC News veteran and documentarian, Terence Wrong, known best for fly-on-the-wall docuseries showing the inner workings of hospitals.

I want to make some noise, said Zirinsky, longtime 48 Hours producer before taking over the news division. I want to bring you things where you will say, Wow, I didnt know that.' I want to bring you inside where you didn't have access.

The studio's first project, The 26th Street Garage: The FBI's Untold Story of 9/11, premieres Thursday on the Paramount+ streaming service, Narrated by Tom Selleck, it shows how the FBI was forced to abandon its New York headquarters after the attack and set up in shop in an automotive garage.
Across New Orleans and southeastern Louisiana, families are still waiting to hear when their children can return to school, as districts assessed hurricane damage. Prior to Ida, schools around Louisiana had been open despite widespread cases of COVID-19, although under a statewide mask mandate for all indoor locations.

We need to get those kids back with us as soon as we possibly can, said Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley.

In New Orleans, School Superintendent Henderson Lewis Jr. said damage to schools appeared to be mostly minimal, but power needs to be restored to all buildings, and teachers, staff and families need to return to the city to get schools up and running.

Now more than ever, our children stand to benefit from the comfort that structured and routine daily schooling can bring, Lewis said in a statement Wednesday. So, lets all come together to reopen our schools quickly and safely.

Lewis said he expects classes for some will resume as early as next week and that all students will be back a week after that.
On this Labor Day holiday, people may be enjoying a day off from their job to relax and celebrate the unofficial closing of summer. But for many essential workers, thats simply not possible. Between milkings, animal care, and harvest schedules, dairy farmers are near the top of that list.

As we know too well, a lack of time off is only one stressor affecting farmers across the country, and distress (bad stress) can have rippling effects through a farm family. Researchers at the University of Guelph even found a correlation  though not causation  between the mental health of farmers and the production and health of dairy cattle herds.

If there is bad stress, does that mean theres good stress? Larry Tranel, a psychologist and dairy specialist for Iowa State Extension, reminds that there is. Perceiving stress as good can change our hormonal response and allow us to better rise to the challenges facing us. We can activate the portion of our brain responsible for higher reasoning instead of developing the hesitation, guilt, shame, fear, and other protective emotions that instinctively come from our primitive mind, he writes.

But first, Tranel acknowledges that there is a significant difference between good stress and distress. Simply thinking positive about stress will not cause serious stress or distress to go away, he says in his new publication, Managing Farm Stress and Distress.

Handling emotions

Outsmarting our primitive mind to better trust ourselves and deal with our stress, personality, and emotions is possible. Keeping thought processes a step ahead of emotional processes is important for mitigating farm stress, Tranel said. However, this requires conscious effort because emotions move quickly.

Being mindful of your day and its tasks is not always easy on a farm, but it can help mitigate negative emotions. This is a key element of happiness, according to Harvard Medical School. Tranel shared a few tips for moving toward more mindful emotions.

It might seem cheesy, but smiling and making an effort to approach tasks, places, and people in your life with a positive facial expression has repeatedly been shown to lead to more overall positive emotions. The same goes for laughter. Positive emotions tend to lead to a wide range of benefits, including more stable relationships and better social skills.

Also, focusing on your posture to literally stand tall not only makes you look more confident, but helps you feel more confident. Taking time to focus on the immediate action of breathing can ground and center you. Of course, these tools go hand in hand with taking care of and having respect for ourselves and realizing that our lifes value goes well beyond the farm.

Negative emotions are a normal function and not inherently a bad thing, Tranel notes. Still, mitigating these emotions is key to healthy function and avoiding distress. In addition to the actions above, stepping back and reinterpreting initial, potentially negative, responses to a situation is critical because the longer a negative perception is not dealt with, the deeper and more ingrained the emotion becomes.

Farm families go through lots of emotions each day, and handling them appropriately helps each individual as well as the group continue to thrive and move forward. For serious distress, be sure to reach out for appropriate help. For many stresses, we have more power over them than we may think or feel.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2021

September 06, 2021
When it comes to wages, unemployment benefits and laws to protect and support workers, North Carolina is the worst state in the U.S., a new report says.

This ranking appears in the Best and Worst States to Work in America 2021 report, which includes Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. It was released recently by Oxfam America, a national charity organization that focuses on labor policy and human rights.

The index ranks states by assigning scores in three areas: wage policies, worker protection policies and right to unionize policies, based on state laws existing as of July 1.

Rounding out the bottom five were states also in the South: Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama and South Carolina. Their rankings by Oxfam did not change from last year.

Virginia, ranked 23rd, is the only Southern state in the upper half of the index due to new worker protection laws, including a raised minimum wage, approved by the states legislature and Gov. Ralph Northam.

North Carolina ranked so low because it doesnt invest in its workers in these areas, Oxfams Kaitlyn Henderson said.
HONG KONG (AP)  A dozen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty Thursday to participating in an unauthorized candlelight vigil to mark Beijing's bloody crackdown in Tiananmen Square.

The 12 were charged with participating in the unauthorized assembly in Victoria Park on June 4 last year, when thousands of Hong Kongers turned up to light candles and sing songs despite police warnings that they may be breaking the law. Seven of the 12 were also charged with inciting others to take part in the assembly.

Authorities have banned the vigils for the past two years, citing public health risks due to the pandemic, although critics believe the ban is part of an ongoing crackdown on dissent in the semiautonomous Chinese territory following months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Prior to the ban, the candlelight vigil event held on June 4 every year was attended by massive crowds and was the only large-scale public commemoration on Chinese soil of the 1989 crackdown in Beijing.

Those who pleaded guilty on Thursday include lawyer Albert Ho, former lawmaker Eddie Chu and Figo Chan, a former leader of the Civil Human Rights Front which was known for organizing large-scale pro-democracy rallies in the city.
CHARLESTON  When it comes to fire safety, Illinois State Fire Marshal Matt Perez said most people were in elementary school the last time precautions and evacuation strategies were emphasized.

Considering the potential for danger that exists in on-campus and off-campus student housing, Perez traveled Wednesday to Eastern Illinois University in Charleston to heighten awareness among students and the community.

The fire marshal met with other campus and community leaders to recognize September as Campus Fire Safety Month.

Zakiya Johnson, a junior at EIU, welcomed the reminder and hopes other students take note.

When she was a freshman, Johnson recalls several occasions when a fire alarm went off in the dorm because people overcooked food.

Sometimes people would stay in the room because they knew it wasnt serious, said Johnson.

According to Charleston Fire Chief Steve Bennett, burning food is the cause for several smoke alarm incidents, but it is still important to treat all fire alarms as if they were immediate emergencies.

Even though it may not be happening in your part of the building, there could be an emergency going on in the rest of the building, said Bennett. So do take heed to those fire alarms and get out of the out of the building swiftly as possible.

Bennett referred to a Stanford Campus Fire Safety study, which showed that from the 2000-2018, there were 92 fires involving on-campus housing, Greek housing, and off-campus housing within three miles of campuses that resulted in 132 deaths.

Eastern hasn't been immune to fire damage.

In 1994, a hot curling iron being placed on a bed spread caused a small but rapid fire in Carman Hall. Later, in 2004, a fire destroyed most of the roof of Blair Hall. While the fires caused extensive structural damage, there were no deaths.

As a residential university, we understand and appreciate that keeping our students and employees safe is our top priority, said university President David Glassman. In our role as educators, its also important to help our students and employees understand how to prevent and properly react to dangerous situations, including fires.

Both Perez and Bennett explained safe safety practices.

Some of these practices include making sure people know how to use fire extinguishers, making sure housing has sprinklers and a working alarm system, not leaving cooking food unattended, and developing exit-plans and a meeting place in case a fire does happen,

These are steps that could prevent tragedies, and will help ensure that the bright futures of this generation continue to flourish, said Perez.

EIU has become a leader in fire safety in Illinois. It was the first state university to comply with the states residence halls sprinkler act in 2012, which required that residence halls have sprinklers to prevent fires from spreading, said Glassman.

All residence assistants also undergo a rigorous fire training sequence where they learn how to leave a building and operate a fire extinguisher, said Executive Director of University Housing and Dining Mark Hudson.

The Charleston Fire Department has taken measures to raise awareness and increase safety throughout the years, said Bennett. These include doing yearly side-by-side demonstrations comparing a fire burning inside a structure without a sprinkler system versus one equipped with one.

These also include "Good Neighbor Walks," where the fire department helps students update their fire safety equipment as they walk from the university to downtown Charleston.

Numerous times, weve either replaced smoke detectors or had to replace the batteries that were taken out, said Bennett about the Good Neighbor walks.

Having fire drills and sprinklers on-campus has made Johnson feel safer inside the dorms, she said.

I think it probably would be important for us to know the strategies in the individual buildings, or at least knowing the quickest way out of individual buildings would be helpful, said Johnson. But at least in the dorms, where people are sleeping at night, is covered.

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NEW YORK (AP)  Sailboats wafted by on the Hudson River and the setting sun sparkled on the water as Proenza Schouler celebrated a return to in-person fashion shows against the spectacular setting of New Yorks buzziest waterfront locale, Little Island.

Designers Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough were so delighted with Wednesday's show, held in perfect late summer weather, that they shared a high-five and a kiss as they ran out for their bow in the new parks amphitheater facing the water  surely one of the citys premier views.

The show, which featured an appearance by vice presidential stepdaughter Ella Emhoff  who also appeared in the label's digital February show  was timed precisely to the sunset at 7:15 p.m. That gave the designers a dramatic darkening sky as they presented a collection meant to celebrate a return not only to city life but to the ideas of travel and adventure.

We wanted to capture this newfound freedom that we have, still slightly fragile at times, McCollough said in a backstage interview after the show.

Hernandez noted that the two designers had developed the idea during their own travels, which began in April after nearly a year in lockdown. They visited islands both in Hawaii and in the Mediterranean, he said.

This is life, this is living, this is what we all want to be doing, he said of the show's ethos. Just that idea of expedition and travel and exploration. That's what we do as humans  we want to learn more."

The clothes were a mix of utilitarian black and bold yellow, red and orange. The brilliant colors, the designers said, were meant to suggest a psychological tonic to recent times, as well as a metaphorical turning of the page to a new chapter. Three colorful dresses in particular, in gauze jersey, pointed to a life that is free to step out once again, the duo wrote in their show notes.

Fringe on a number of garments was a celebration of the handmade,' they said. As for shoes, they were often flat and comfortable, recognizing the reality of comfort being paramount today."

Emhoff, stepdaughter of Vice President Kamala Harris, wore a poncho-like black coat, her hair pulled tightly back in a single braid. The model-designer, who graduated as an art major from the Parsons School of Design in May, also appeared in the labels February collection, presented as a digital film.

The 2.4 acre Little Island park, which sits atop a series of columns shaped like tulips, opened in May, a jewel within the larger Hudson River Park. McCollough noted that with each Fashion Week, it had gotten harder and harder to find new venues that have never been used before.

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

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The FDA said it will continue to make enforcement decisions on a case-by-case basis according to our enforcement priorities and individual circumstances, recognizing that we are unable, as a practical matter, to take enforcement action against every illegally marketed tobacco product, and that we need to make the best use of agency resources.

The FDA announcement, when it comes, could provide clarity on what happens to the rate of substitution between traditional cigarettes and vaping.

Reynolds American Inc. said Thursday: We remain confident in the quality of our applications, which are supported by scientific evidence that our Vuse and VELO products are appropriate for the protection of the public health. In addition, we believe that these categories of important, innovative products may be potentially less harmful than traditional tobacco products.

Anti-tobacco and public-health advocacy groups are strongly urging the FDA to ban all non-tobacco e-cigarette flavors.

In recent weeks, the FDA has announced rejecting millions of electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products from small e-cigarette producers, but not for the top manufacturers that include R.J. Reynolds Vapor Co., Juul Labs Inc., Fontem Ventures and NJoy.
The service will be at the First Responders Memorial in the Fourth of July Park. The memorial is located adjacent to the parks parking lot off of West Bodenhamer Street.

Recently, D.H. Griffin Companies donated a section of a steel beam from the South Tower of the World Trade Center to the Town of Kernersville for display at the First Responders Memorial. The beam will be dedicated at 9:59 a.m., the time the South Tower collapsed on 9/11.

The public is invited to attend. We encourage all groups in attendance to practice social distancing to make this event as safe as possible for everyone.

Yadkinville: A commemoration of the 20th anniversary of 9/11 will be held in the Willingham Theater, 226 E Main St, Yadkinville, at 8 a.m. Saturday. The event will also be live streamed on the Yadkin Arts Councils Facebook page.

There will be speakers, music, and recognitions. The program will adjourn outside for Taps and a 21-gun salute. Weather permitting there will be a flyover. The program will pause at 8:46 and 9:03.

The keynote speaker will be Steve Schneibner, a first officer with American Airlines, who was scheduled to flight 11 on Sept. 11, 2001. He will tell his story from his book, In My Seat.

Email: AskSAM@wsjournal.com Online: journalnow.com/asksam Write: Ask SAM, 418 N. Marshall St., Winston-Salem, NC 27101

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A Forsyth County sheriffs deputy confiscated a handgun Wednesday from a Parkland High School student a week after a Mount Tabor High School student was shot at that high school, authorities said.

The deputy, who works as a school-resource officer at Parkland High, searched the student and found the gun, the Forsyth County Sheriffs Office said.

It was a community member that alerted us to the possibility of this particular weapon on campus today, the sheriffs office tweeted. And for that, we are grateful.

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The student, who is accused of possessing the gun, will face charges for having a weapon on school grounds, the sheriffs office said. The sheriffs office didnt identify the student.

Please know that no students or staff were threatened or harmed, (and) there was no altercation, the sheriffs office tweeted. We always take these matters seriously.

We appreciate students (and) parents making us aware about anything that is of concern, the sheriffs office said. If you see something or know something, say something.
Virginia and Christopher Spencer walked into the Crypt where others were attacking officers trying to hold the crowd back, prosecutors said. They went upstairs to the second floor and walked briefly into a hallway of offices belonging to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi before going to Statuary Hall.

Prosecutors said they joined a crowed in the Statuary Hall Connector outside the House of Representatives, walked down the hall toward the east side of the building and left through a portico outside the House of Representatives on the east side.

Federal prosecutors said Virginia Spencer admitted what she had done during an interview with the FBI on Jan. 19.

Authorities have said that Christopher Spencer did a Facebook livestream where he is seen encouraging people to kick open the doors of the U.S. House chamber and yelling obscenities as police approached the mob inside an area in the Capitol.

When he was in the Crypt at the Capitol, Spencer is heard saying that the crowd stormed the Capitol, bro...pushed the cops out of the way, everything...took it over, authorities said.

Hes also shown chanting with a crowd, Whos House? Our House and Stop the Steal! repeatedly.
ST. ANTHONY, Idaho (AP)  A judge has decided an Idaho woman charged with conspiring with her new husband to kill her two children is still not fit to participate in her own court proceedings.

District Judge Steven Boyce made the decision Wednesday to extend Lori Vallow Daybells time in a state mental hospital by at least 180 days.

The East Idaho News reports Daybell was committed to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare on June 8 after a mental health professional said she was not competent to stand trial. Last month, Boyce asked for a progress report on her condition after getting letters asking for her commitment to be extended.

Daybell and her husband Chad Daybell are charged with multiple counts of conspiracy to commit murder and first-degree murder, among other crimes. The charges are in relation to the deaths of 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan  two of Loris kids  and Chads first wife, Tammy Daybell.

The childrens bodies were found in Chad Daybells backyard in Idaho in 2020.
This past week, our community experienced a horrifying, yet far too predictable event. The devastating firearm violence that has turned far-away schools into household names has now come to our doorstep. This past week, it was our turn to see ourselves trending on the national news. We are grateful for our neighbors who responded to the crisis  law enforcement, emergency responders and community leaders, as well as the teachers, faculty and staff across all our schools. Among those responding to this tragedy was our team at Brenner Childrens Hospital.

Its hard to overstate the effort and resources required to care for a child who has been shot. It is truly an all hands on deck event  from the pediatric surgeons, emergency medicine physicians, anesthesiologists, radiologists, nurses, respiratory therapists and blood bank personnel. Last week, Brenner Childrens completely mobilized to try to save the life of a dying child.

As surgeons, we are trained to respond quickly and decisively to save a life, but our skills are sometimes no match for the destruction left by a bullet that has torn through a body. And after we have lost that child, our next task is even more difficult  to walk into a waiting room and share the news that no parent should ever have to hear.
Nebraska

editor's pick topical alert featured

Small amounts of pesticides detected in groundwater 6 miles from AltEn site

Silver Lab Productions, For the Journal Star The AltEn plant near Mead, which the state shut down earlier this year, is shown on Aug. 25. Byproducts have now been detected in groundwater 6 miles from the site.

Trace amounts of pesticides commonly used in seed treatments have been discovered in two groundwater wells near AltEn, including a private well 6 miles downstream.

The biofuel plant south of Mead turned discarded, treated seeds into ethanol, producing wastewater and distiller's grains heavily laced with pesticides in the process.

The byproducts were released into streams and spread in fields across Saunders County before the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy ordered the plant to shut down earlier this year.

Seed companies to shoulder cost, burden of cleaning up troubled AltEn ethanol plant Six companies that sent treated seed to AltEn have applied to the Nebraska Voluntary Cleanup Program, which allows third parties to assume responsibility of environmental cleanup efforts at no cost to taxpayers.

On Sept. 1, environmental regulators notified Stan and Evelyn Keiser that their drinking water well contained three compounds, including insecticides like clothianidin (1.3 parts per billion) and thiamethoxam (less than 1 ppb) and the fungicide mefenoxam (less than 1 ppb).

Commonly used as seed treatments, clothianidin and thiamethoxam have been found at levels as high as 427,000 ppb and 85,100 ppb, respectively, in byproducts that came from AltEn.

Few studies have examined the health effects of neonicotinoids in humans, but scientists have found evidence that the widely used pesticides may cause neurological damage and congenital defects.

JUSTIN WAN, Journal Star file photo Evelyn and Stan Keiser had hoped to build a cabin on their property near a pond created by Stan Keiser's grandfather. The pond, once teeming with wildlife, is now a dead zone after pesticide-contaminated wastewater from the AltEn ethanol plant near Mead flowed downstream. The Keisers were also recently notified that their private well, which provides their drinking water, contains contaminants.

The levels detected in the Keisers' well, dug 40 feet below ground, were well below the levels deemed unsafe by the Environmental Protection Agency, according to state regulators.

The drinking water benchmark established by the EPA for clothianidin is 630 ppb -- the Minnesota Department of Health places the level at 200 ppb -- while the level for thiamethoxam is 77 ppb. The EPA does not have a safety benchmark for mefenoxam.

The state also pulled samples from the Keisers' pond, which is the collection point for a 6,000-acre watershed including the AltEn property and was the site of a 2016 fish kill event. Those samples turned up nearly a dozen different fungicides and insecticides, all at low concentrations.

Among the compounds detected in the samples taken from the pond on Aug. 16 were those also found in the well: clothianidin, thiamethoxam and mefenoxam.

Its about as sterile as you can get  Storm, wastewater runoff from AltEn traveled miles downstream for years Once clear and teeming with life, the pond is now murky and stained by chemicals  a victim of what happened at the far end of its 6,000-acre watershed.

The state environment department also notified the University of Nebraska-Lincoln of an Aug. 6 test showing clothianidin at concentrations of less than 1 ppb in groundwater at its research farm directly south of the AltEn property.

The No. 9 well where the neonicotinoid was discovered at the Eastern Nebraska Research and Extension Center is used for drinking water, according to Ron Yoder, UNLs senior associate vice chancellor who oversees the research farm.

Other wells at the research site showed no detectable amounts of pesticides.

In an Aug. 20 email to Yoder, Tom Buell, administrator for the Department of Environment and Energys Monitoring and Remediation Division, said further testing of the well was being done. Those results have not yet been made public.

Although the concentrations are minuscule -- equal to roughly one drop in a 14,000-gallon pool -- the results show how quickly the compounds can move through the environment, said Shannon Bartelt-Hunt, chair of UNLs Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the College of Engineering.

These are compounds that are fairly mobile in water, they dont stick to soil as much as some other types of compounds, and the soils there are more transmissible, Bartelt-Hunt said, referring to the sandy soils in the Todd Valley, the ancient channel of the Platte River that cuts across Saunders County.

Its a sign things from the surface are moving vertically, she added.

But whether vertical movement is happening on AltEns property or is occurring where pesticide-contaminated stormwater is running away from the site toward the Platte River is unknown and in need of further study, Bartelt-Hunt said.

Samples taken from a monitoring well southeast of AltEns damaged lagoon system -- what hydrologists call downgradient, or downstream, from millions of gallons of highly contaminated wastewater -- measured levels of thiamethoxam at 22.6 ppb in October 2020.

In March 2021 the same well showed increased concentrations of 37.6 ppb of thiamethoxam. But by June, the level of thiamethoxam in the monitoring well near the lagoon had dropped to 19.2 ppb, while the level of clothianidin was recorded at 34 ppb.

Thiamethoxam has been observed to break down into clothianidin in the environment.

Bartelt-Hunt, who is part of a collaborative between UNL, the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University researching the environmental and health impacts stemming from pesticide contamination at AltEn, said the groundwater results show further testing is needed.

Specifically, researchers need to begin examining where the pesticides from AltEn are leaching into the groundwater, whether its from the ethanol plant itself, or from various points along the water's path to the Platte River.

We need to collect more monitoring data to understand how these compounds are migrating offsite, she said. Unfortunately, we dont have much information on groundwater within the region at this time.

Rain events, such as the Aug. 31 thunderstorm that dropped 4 inches in the Mead area, have pushed pesticide-laden stormwater downstream from AltEn for years despite the states insistence AltEn take measures to prevent it.

Last week, heavy rains saturated a dirt berm built around a pile of highly contaminated wet distillers grains on the east side of AltEns property, quickly filling a drainage area that runs southeast from the facility.

An environmental contractor hired by a group of seed industry giants to help with cleanup at AltEn was unable to completely stop the flow of water away from the site, the Department of Environment and Energy said.

Clean Harbors was able to recover an estimated 1.75 million gallons of water, it said in a report to the state, which was pumped into an emergency lagoon on the property.

The state granted the companies -- six companies that formerly sent discarded treated seed to the plant now known collectively as the AltEn Facility Response Group -- an extension in submitting a plan for cleaning up the site.

The group was initially scheduled to submit its remedial action plan on Sept. 30, but was granted a four-week extension while it seeks to stabilize the facility for winter, according to an email from an environmental contractor to state regulators.

NewFields, an environmental engineering firm from Atlanta hired by the response group, said work is being performed to improve the treatment of wastewater, consolidate wet cake piles and repair the damaged lagoon system at AltEn.

Plans are also being drawn up to land-apply treated wastewater, a NewFields representative told the state, as well as drain the remaining 4-million gallon digester tank, and temporary storage tanks now at the facility.

Communications between the response group and the state do not indicate what actions, if any, may be taken to address locations away from AltEns property.

The remedial action plan being formed by the response group, which will go through a public comment period once submitted, is now due to the Department of Environment and Energy on Nov. 1.

Meanwhile, the Lincoln Water System said it is continuing to watch the situation unfold near the wellfields where it sources the Capital City's water.

A spokeswoman for the utility said more than 100,000 quality checks are performed annually on Lincolns drinking water, including for 25 herbicides and pesticides, to ensure it is safe and meets regulatory requirements.

The list of pesticides screened by Lincoln Water System doesnt currently include neonicotinoids like those found in high concentrations at AltEn, but the utility said it is working with the U.S. Geological Survey on a method to test for those compounds upgradient from its wellfields.

'A lack of action'  Senators blast state agencies as slow to act against AltEn Lawmakers criticized the Department of Environment and Energy for failing to act sooner on the Mead facility and considered legislation that would make seed companies liable for disposing of pesticide-treated products using unsafe methods.

'A big crisis in our state'  Bill to ban ethanol companies from using treated seed advances Given an emergency clause and advanced on a 43-0 vote, if LB507 passes two more rounds of consideration and is signed into law by Gov. Pete Ricketts, it could effectively outlaw AltEns current business model before the end of April.

State officials decline to attend town hall to discuss AltEn Ethanol concerns What our community needs now, more than ever, is information," Saunders County Attorney Joe Dobesh said. "They need to know accurate details of what is happening, what the risks are and what the state is planning to do.

'Chemicals don't just disappear'  Persistence by researchers, residents uncovers pesticide contamination at Mead plant The collapse of dozens of bee colonies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's research center near Mead was the first sign something was wrong. Then it was sick dogs and dead raccoons.

Burst tank likely released 4 million gallons of wastewater from troubled ethanol plant Dark colored water was still rushing from the ruptured pipe when regulators arrived on site at 1 p.m. last Friday, a investigative report noted.

'A dump for seed corn companies'  Mead residents worry what comes next for troubled ethanol plant Theyve tried to do things behind peoples back the whole time theyve been there, said the chair for the Mead Board of Trustees. You cant ruin a community and an aquifer.

'This truly is a rare incident'  Regulators update senators on contamination issues at AltEn State lawmakers questioned the director of the Department of Environment and Energy on its efforts to bring the troubled AltEn ethanol plant in compliance with state environmental regulations, and questioned why more wasnt done sooner.
Cindy Lange-Kubick Columnist Cindy Lange-Kubick has loved writing columns about life in her hometown since 1994. She had hoped to become a people person by now, nonetheless she would love to hear your tales of fascinating neighbors and interesting places. Follow Cindy Lange-Kubick Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

This column originally ran on March 24, 2020. Look for an update at the end.

I waved at the mailman Monday.

Id wandered out mid-morning, wearing sweatpants and a fresh-scrubbed face  I may never wear mascara again  and, from two houses down, the man in uniform raised a blue-gloved hand in return.

Id been thinking about mail carriers. Here for us through rain and sleet, blizzard and now pandemic, how important it seemed to have the U.S. Postal Service on the job, the reassuring appearance of bills and flyers for replacement windows and cheap pizza inside the metal box at the curb.

Postmarked pieces of normal.

Id been wondering how they kept safe, reaching in for our spit-sealed envelopes day after day, so that blue glove made me happy.

Its quieter in Lincoln these days, except on the police scanner, where people still steal and plunder, run red lights and hurt the ones theyre supposed to love.
Odenkirk has been nominated for four Emmys for playing luckless lawyer Jimmy McGill, who becomes increasingly corrupt and adopts the pseudonym Saul Goodman, the criminal lawyer who appeared in dozens of episodes of Breaking Bad before getting his own spin-off.
They would have gotten away with it, Balian said, but then authorities reopened the investigation into Kathie's disappearance and Berman told Robert Durst she planned to speak with police.

She helped him get out of that jam," Balian said. "The thing she got was ... a bullet in the back of her head. By her best friend.

After Berman was killed, Durst returned to Galveston, Texas, where he had been living under an alias while hiding out from New York authorities reinvestigating his wife's death.

He killed a neighbor, Morris Black, who discovered his true identity. Durst was acquitted of murder at trial in 2003 after testifying that Black pulled a gun on him and was killed in the struggle for the weapon. But Los Angeles prosecutors were able to present evidence that he murdered Black to support their witness-killing theory.

The defendant runs and hides and flees to Galveston, and there's only one person who can lead the police to his doorstep, who knows who he is, who knows about the reinvestigation, Balian. What does he do? Like Kathie, like Susan, he gets wiped off the face of this earth. Chopped up and thrown in Galveston Bay.
Linehan said she remains open to reasonable compromise.

"If there's no give on either side," she said, "we may have a 5-4 vote."

Much of the discussion centered on the difficult need to move a legislative district away from a rural senator who will continue to represent it in order to achieve the accompanying task of equitable legislative redistricting.

Current proposals point to Sen. Mark Kolterman of Seward and Sen. Dan Hughes of Venango as possible senators who may not live in the districts they represent after redistricting, which under the Republican plan would add one state senator in metropolitan Omaha.

Sen. Suzanne Geist of Lincoln, a Republican, objected to criticism from Democratic senators "implying that only we are partisan."

"There is a path forward if we want to take it," Linehan said.

The committee will meet again Thursday at 9 a.m. with the goal of completing its work by the end of the day.

The special committee is composed of five Republicans and four Democrats, reflecting the GOP majority in the officially nonpartisan Legislature.
UNITED NATIONS  Former Irish president Mary Robinson, who heads the group of prominent former leaders founded by Nelson Mandela, called on China and Russia especially to tell the Taliban that participation of women in Afghan society and the education of girls are non-negotiable and must be respected.
UNITED NATIONS -- The United Nations development agency says Afghanistan is teetering on the brink of universal poverty which could become a reality in the middle of next year unless urgent efforts are made to bolster local communities and their economies.
That shortcoming was enough to ignite a Friday announcement from U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, an Illinois Democrat: The Senate Judiciary Committee he chairs will hold a hearing about the new law, he said, and, more broadly, the decisions made by the Supreme Court on an emergency basis, as this one was.

Durbin decried the conservative justices abuse of the shadow docket, which refers to emergency decisions that dont follow normal procedure. Under the shadow docket, a term coined by University of Chicago law professor William Baude, it takes only an appeal to one justice who then decides whether to forward the matter to the rest of the court.

Now a 5-4 majority of the high court has used it to allow the Texas abortion law to take effect instead of the more customary move in such controversial cases of blocking its enforcement while appeals go forward.

Yes, if youre keeping score, even Chief Justice John Roberts joined the courts three liberal members in opposition, writing in his dissenting opinion that he would have blocked this law because of its serious consequences. But his vote was not enough to tilt the balance away from his fellow conservatives who dominate the court 6-3, thanks to the three justices appointed by then-President Donald Trump.
Months of rancorous debate over how Nebraska students learn about health doesn't change the fact that they desperately do need to learn about health.

Unfortunately, the outcry over the State Board of Education's first proposal has overshadowed the need for all children to have a trusted, qualified and willing adult teach our states youth what they must know as they grow up. For the child of every involved parent who testified for or against the plan, another student lacks the household structure or support to obtain that education at home  meaning school is the only choice.

Accordingly, real losers in this situation are Nebraskas students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Students need age-appropriate guidelines to learn about health, and the stated intent of these optional standards  before the effort was politicized to the point of no return -- was protecting Nebraska children from sexual abuse and bullying.

Thats a goal that all Nebraska parents should want to see happen. Instead, parents left and right accused the committee that wrote the draft standards of grooming children.

To be fair, members of the State Board of Education were in a difficult situation.
It is time for President Biden to either step down or someone with some love of country to start the impeachment process. This man from the very first day has set out to destroy this country.

I watched him as the 13 Americans killed in Afghanistan came off the plane, looking at his watch frequently and when he was commenting on the people killed he couldn't even say it from his heart; he had to use a teleprompter.

This is very disturbing, and it should be to all Americans. Joe Biden is correct on one thing: We will never forget the botched debacle concerning Afghanistan, especially the women and children of the Afghans he left behind and the 13 Americans dead. It was all unnecessary.

Mark Oswald, Lincoln

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MOUNT PLEASANT  Four Illinois residents have been accused of stealing multiple tools from Menards at 2101 S. Oakes Road.

Julio Quinones Maldonado, 37, from Chicago, was charged with a felony count of retail theft intentionally taking between $500-$5,000 and misdemeanor counts of possession of drug paraphernalia and obstructing an officer.

Robert G. Jones, 56, from Waukegan, Illinois, was charged with a felony count of retail theft intentionally taking between $500-$5,000.

Marcus D. Murphy, 37, from Waukegan, was charged with a felony count of possession with intent to deliver/distribute/manufacture marijuana less than or equal to 200 grams.

Alexis M. Benjamin, 29, from Waukegan, was charged with a felony count of possession of marijuana.

According to a criminal complaint:

On Monday, an officer was sent to the Menards, 3101 S. Oakes Road, Mount Pleasant, for a report of shoplifting in progress. It was advised that a man had exited the store with a cart full of tools worth $339.38. A loss prevention employee had approached the man and, after arguing with him, the man left the stolen merchandise and walked away.
RACINE  Racine County Veterans Services will be accepting donations for Afghan refugees arriving at Fort McCoy from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 18, at the Racine County Department of Human Services, 1717 Taylor Avenue.

According to a release from the county, about 10,000 refugees from Afghanistan are being housed at Fort McCoy, just east of La Crosse, following the overthrow of their country's government.

RCVS is partnering with Team Rubicon, a nonprofit disaster relief team made up of veterans and first responders founded in 2010, to host the donation drive.

"We're working with Team Rubicon to provide direct support to these individuals and families in need," stated Racine County Veterans Service Officer Zachary Zdroik. "Many of these refugees were unable to bring any belongings with them; they are without what we would consider essential supplies like toiletries, blankets, and bedding, for example. Donations are an opportunity for our community to rally and help those most in need."
The other reason the policy does not include the entire workforce, Vornholt added, is because the city does not want to put undue strain on the COVID testing system, which right now is widely available and free.

However, with the emergence of the variants, the CDC could very well come back and recommend everyone in a workforce be tested, Vornholt added, at which point the city could update its policy.

Fiscal impacts

Currently, if an employee of the city comes down with COVID, they have to use their own sick time or vacation time to recover.

Alderman Jeffery Peterson noted the city was encouraging and trying to reward people for being vaccinated. As such, he suggested the city continue to pay vaccinated people who are infected with COVID rather than have them use up their sick leave or vacation time.

Vornholt said the city was evaluating that proposal and said I think that makes a lot of sense. However, the matter definitely needed more examination, Vornholt later added.

Peterson proposed the change in sick time pay for those with COVID as an amendment to the testing policy, but, because the recommendation had a fiscal impact, it has to be directed to committee.
1. Yes. COVID-19 can only be stopped through vaccinations. A mandate is needed.

2. Yes. This is a major step, but were facing a national emergency. It is a justifiable move.

3. No. The government is right to promote vaccinations, but not to require them.

4. No. This is government overreach and legally questionable. A mandate is wrong.

5. Unsure. Its in the publics interest, but mandates infringe on individuals rights.

Vote

View Results
Locally, health officials have called for additional precautions to head off more cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

The Nebraska Infectious Diseases Society recently sent a letter asking Dr. Gary Anthone, the states chief medical officer, to reconsider his denial of the Douglas County health directors request to issue an indoor mask mandate for the county.

State law allows the local health department to enact rules and regulations for the protection of public health and the prevention of communicable diseases, but they are subject to the review and approval of the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

The society represents the majority of infectious diseases specialists in hospitals and clinics across the state. In a letter to Anthone, the infectious disease experts noted that only 55% of the countys residents are fully vaccinated, hospitals are at or over capacity and transmission of the virus in the area is higher than it was in August 2020 when the Omaha City Council adopted its first mask requirement.

Your decision to deny this request is not based on the best and scientifically proven methods to stem the very real public health crisis occurring in this community, they wrote.
A witness to a fiery crash Saturday that took the lives of an assistant professor at Creighton University and his 7-year-old son told a Nebraska State Patrol trooper the semi that struck their vehicle "showed no signs of slowing down."

"I saw a car flip. I saw one careen into the median and burst into flames," the unnamed witness said, according to Trooper Michael Mallery.

Mallery had been monitoring Husker gameday traffic near the Lincoln Airport on Interstate 80 just before 9:30 that morning when he saw a black plume of smoke.

In the affidavit to arrest the semi driver, 50-year-old Yorkwind Crawford of Florida, Mallery said when he drove east to see what had happened, he found Crawford's semi-trailer on the shoulder of the westbound lanes under the 14th Street bridge with damage to the front end.

A pickup on the inside shoulder near the 27th Street exit was fully engulfed.

Traffic on both sides of I-80 had come to a near standstill, and he saw at least five other vehicles in the the north ditch with considerable damage.
Shawn said the Oxford and Cambridge connections impressed his Harvard classmates until Shawn came clean and explained his hometowns population was just shy of 800.

To prove Oxfords tiny size, he mailed a letter to his home address in Nebraska. Just as he predicted, the Oxford postmaster knew Shawn had gone off to college and so the postmaster forwarded the letter to Harvard University.

Antonio said endurance running is a growing sport. He said he wants to break the record for running across the U.S.  42 days, set in 2017 by a Nebraskan, Peter Kostelnick of Lincoln.

Antonio said hes been interviewed several times during his cross-country run. One of his favorite questions is when interviewers compare him to Forrest Gump, the Hollywood character portrayed by Tom Hanks who became an endurance runner during much of the film.

The fist time I saw Forrest Gump, you never could have told me I would run cross country, but I love the comparison because Gump did it for the love of running.

Antonio said running is becoming his identity. Hes ranked 24th among endurance runners around the world.
My family went to the state fair in Lincoln a few times when I was a child, but we usually took road trip summer vacations to neighboring states. For some of my Wilcox classmates, summer vacation meant a day at the state fair.

At fairs or similar events, I want nothing to do with carnival rides that go higher or spin faster than a merry-go-round. Just taking photos of riders can make me woozy.

My aversion to carnival rides has lingered long after my twin sister, Lisa, and I grew out of our motion sickness years. Dad  from whom we inherited that trait  often had to stop the car on trips longer than the 11 miles from our farm to Wilcox so that one or both of us could puke on the side of the road instead of in the back seat.

Unlike me, Lisa loved fair rides as an older child. She usually convinced friends or our older brother Glen to ride with her at the Franklin County Fair. I gave in once when we went to the Buffalo County Fair while in Kearney to visit Grandma Dunn.

I had regrets almost immediately, when the Ferris wheel we were riding stopped with our bucket seat at the top. It swayed every time we moved in the 20 minutes it took for a carnival worker to climb the structure to remove a decorative tube light that had come loose and threatened to fall.
However, 1st Lt. Meredith Porter, the officer in charge and a pilot with the 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation, said the demanding work schedules have not affected the soldiers in a negative way.

All our soldiers are very happy to be here to help in any way they can, she said. Despite long days, morale is high and everybody knows they are here doing what they can to help and to learn.

In this mission, the biggest thing Ive learned is to be flexible on adjusting our techniques and methods for performing the mission, said Sgt. Zachary Hoy, a crew chief in the same unit as Porter. Different from last year, we got to try out a different style water bucket and we, as a crew, had to make some changes to smooth out the process of filling the bucket with water. It was a challenge learning how this bucket behaves differently from our buckets we brought from home.

Porter echoed Hoys statement on the learning curve with the water buckets and adds that she has learned about a couple other aspects as well.
Gary Tyler, who was wrongly convicted of first-degree murder at the age of 17 and spent 41 years in Louisiana State Penitentiary, better known as Angola, will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 16 in Viterbo University Fine Arts Center Main Theatre.

The event is free and open to the public. It is being held at Viterbo in recognition of Constitution Day. Tyler spoke at Viterbo in 2018 to great acclaim from students and community members. A mask requirement is in effect at Viterbo and all audience members must wear a mask.

Tyler, an African-American, was 16 years old in 1974 when he was charged with the murder of a fellow student, who was white. He was quickly tried and convicted under dubious circumstances in a racially charged environment and was sentenced to death in the electric chair. He was the youngest inmate in history to be incarcerated on death row. Louisianas death penalty was ruled unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1976, and Tylers sentence was changed to life in prison.
The Wisconsin State Senate is now accepting applications for the 2022 Senate Scholar Program.

The Senate Scholar Program is designed to challenge Wisconsins best students aged 16-18. One student from each of the 33 Senate Districts may participate in this years week-long program in Madison.

The program has created an advanced government curriculum that includes classroom instruction, roundtable discussion sections, and a lab component that provides further insight into all facets of the legislative process.

Sen, Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska) urges students interested in government and public service to apply:

The Senate Scholar program is a great opportunity for motivated students to learn more about state government.

I encourage all civic-minded students and young leaders to apply.

Applications must be received no later than November 1. A digital copy of the application and more information can be found at: https://legis.wisconsin.gov/ssgt/senatescholar/.

Pfaff represents the 32nd Senate District, which includes La Crosse, Vernon, Crawford, and southern Monroe County.

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Moser said another new Fairest of the Fair event is a painted rock hunt. The rock hunt is coordinated by the Fairest of the Fair program with the help of Westby Rocks, which is painting rocks with fair images.

There will be one large rock with a Ferris wheel on it and six smaller rocks. The large rock will be worth a $5 Culvers gift card and the smaller rocks will be worth $1. The rocks will be hidden around the fairgrounds. For kids safety, they will not be found in the parking lots, racetrack infield, show arenas, animal barns, horse track, demo derby area or tractor pull area. Rocks that are found can be brought to the fair office where the reward can be claimed.

Moser said the county fair is extra special for her this year, as it marks 20 years since she first started showing dairy cattle as a participant in the Little Britches Dairy Show. I was just 2 years old.

Once she was old enough, Moser joined the Seas Branch Smithies 4-H Club as a Cloverbud. Her main projects were dairy cattle, photography and arts and crafts.

Moser said she has many fair memories, but what stands out most are the connections made with fellow 4-Hers and the community and the feeling of comradery. What makes our fair so special is everyone learning from each other.
Two Monroe County school districts took different approaches this week to masks in the classroom.

The Sparta School Board voted 4-2 Wednesday to impose a mask requirement during a two-hour meeting in the high school auditorium.

Two-thirds of the 36 people who addressed the board spoke against the requirement, and the vote was met with yelling from the audience, some of whom approached the stage where board members were sitting. Three Sparta Police Department officers stood in front of the stage at the meetings conclusion.

The Tomah School Board voted 7-0 Tuesday to delay a decision on face coverings to a future meeting. The full board isnt scheduled to meet again until Sept. 20.

Both school boards voted late last month to keep masks optional for the start of the school year. However, superintendents of both districts cited COVID-19 data from the Monroe County Health Department since the start of the school year as the rationale for a masking requirement. Wisconsin and other states have experienced a renewed spike in COVID-19 cases since the Delta variant of the virus was identified.
OLATHE, Kan. (AP)  A suburban Kansas City man has been sentenced to more than 30 years in prison in the death of his 75-year-old mother, who was emaciated and riddled with infected bed sores when she died at home in 2019.

Raymond McManness, 54, was sentenced Wednesday to 374 months, the Kansas City Star reported. McManness, of Olathe, pleaded no contest in July to second-degree murder and physical mistreatment of his mother. Police said McManness didnt seek medical care for Sharon McManness before she died.

The medical examiners office found she died in January 2019 from an infection due to open bed sores and that she was severely malnourished, weighing just 58 pounds (26.3 kilograms).

Police said when they found her, she was very emaciated and had large open bedsores, including one sore that was open to the bone."
As of Thursday, Fort McCoy in Wisconsin had fewer than two dozen COVID-19 cases and one measles case among the thousands of Afghan refugees staying there, a spokesperson confirmed.

Everyone who has been infected with either measles or COVID-19 was isolated, and those who were exposed were put in quarantine, Fort McCoy spokesperson Cheryl Phillips said.

Before arriving at a base, all Afghan refugees are tested for COVID-19, offered a COVID-19 vaccine for free and given a medical screening, which includes "critical" immunizations against polio and measles, mumps and rubella, Phillips said.

Fort McCoy is one of eight military bases housing Afghan refugees who fled from Afghanistan after the recent collapse of their country's government to the Taliban. Fort McCoy can host up to 13,000 people, and 8,780 refugees had arrived as of Sept. 3.

On Saturday, Fort McCoy identified one refugee who had symptoms of measles upon arrival at the base, Phillips said. That person was immediately placed in isolation and tested positive for measles on Sunday.
Investigators were still at the home gathering evidence on Wednesday.

A friend of the woman who lives in the neighborhood, who did not want to be identified by name, said the woman had been talking to him regarding her concerns about Andino, who he described as the womans former boyfriend.

The friend shared a text the woman sent him two months ago.

Sorry, Ive been dealing with some major personal issues. If anything happens to me please tell the cops to look into Roberto Andino, the woman wrote in the text, giving Andinos birthdate and describing him. Ive made a report on him already but the cops said they cant do anything until there is a trail of evidence.

The friend urged her to come to his house if she felt unsafe.

Okay cool, thank you, she answered. I have my gun but really dont want to use it other than at a gun range.

Last seen Saturday

Neighbors said they typically saw the woman out walking her dog several times a day, but they had last seen her Saturday. They said on Sunday they heard loud music coming from her home, describing that as unusual, and said all the blinds at her home had been closed.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  Lawyers for a former Minneapolis City Council member objected Wednesday to new language for a ballot measure on the future of policing in the city, saying it fails to comply with a court order that rejected the previous wording.

The proposed amendment to the city charter would replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a new Department of Public Safety that could include police officers if necessary. Details of how the change would be implemented would be determined later by the City Council and the mayor.

Hennepin County District Judge Jamie Anderson on Tuesday ruled that the old ballot language was "vague, ambiguous and incapable of implementation. The City Council a few hours later approved new language that was meant to address the judge's concerns, just hours ahead of a deadline for ballots to go to the printer.

But attorneys for former council member Don Samuels and other petitioners said in a letter to the judge Wednesday that the new language suffers from the same deficiencies. They said it does not inform voters that there's still no plan for how the new department would be structured, overseen or funded, nor does it make clear if the city will continue to have police.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said Wednesday that he will no longer prosecute felony charges stemming from most low-level traffic stops, saying it's time to change a practice that has disproportionately impacted generations of minority communities.

Recognizing the role we play as prosecutors in perpetuating racial inequities that often result from these types of stops is an important first step in charting a new, less harmful course, Choi said in a statement.

Choi said his office will not prosecute crimes that are discovered solely because of a low-level traffic stop, such as broken tail light or expired license tabs. He said the new policy does not apply to situations that create a public safety hazard or when a vehicle is stopped because of a dangerous condition.

Choi said during a news conference that he used to believe that pretextual stops  in which police use a minor violation as a reason to pull someone over and search for a more serious crime  amounted to good policing.

I no longer believe that, he said, adding that these stops seldom result in seized contraband.

And sometimes the consequences can be fatal.
Savage was helping load up the SUV and her small white sedan with fabric, sewing machines and other materials. She said she planned to drive the donations to Fort McCoy Wednesday night. McElrone would follow with the SUV the following day.

Chris Hennemeyer, who is leading the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops volunteer efforts at Fort McCoy, said his group has been working with Savage to get the sewing supplies up to the base.

We absolutely welcome it, he said of the reams of fabric. A lot of people boarded flights to the states with just one little bag.

The Catholic charity has been running some of the social centers for women and children at Fort McCoy. Volunteers set up a few sewing machines in one of the centers, and they were an immediate hit, Hennemeyer said.

Afghan women started making blouses and other clothes, with one woman even making a childs outfit from one of her blankets, Hennemeyer said.

We just had a little supply of fabric, he said. And they went through that in no time.

McElrone said the fact that the women jumped at the chance to begin sewing is part of what inspired her and Savage to start the fabric drive.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources policy boards chairman on Thursday canceled a September meeting after a top department official told him no one from the agency would participate amid a partisan fight over whether he should leave his post.

Fred Prehn, an appointee of former Republican Gov. Scott Walker, has refused to step down even though his term expired in May. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers appointed Sandra Naas to replace him, a move that would give Evers appointees majority control of the board.

Prehn maintains he doesn't have to leave until the state Senate confirms Naas. Republicans who control that chamber have made no moves toward a confirmation vote. Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul has filed a lawsuit seeking a court order to remove Prehn from the board.

Prehn said in a statement Thursday that DNR Deputy Secretary Todd Ambs told him the agency would not propose any agenda items for the board's Sept. 22 meeting in Superior. No DNR officials will attend the meeting and Prehn should cancel it, Ambs wrote. Prehn said in his statement that he had no choice but to cancel the meeting, calling the department's stance unprecedented.
Jonathan Groff appears at the end of the official trailer for "The Matrix Resurrections," which was released by Warner Bros. Pictures Thursday morning.

Information on the Ronks native's role in the "Matrix" sequel, which was at least partially filmed in Berlin, Germany, has not been revealed.

The plot of this fourth installment of the "Matrix" series of films also has not been revealed by Warner Bros. Keanu Reeves and Carrie Anne Moss, who played Thomas A. Anderson ("Neo") and Trinity, respectively, in the earlier films, are back for this fourth film.

"Matrix the Resurrections" is directed by Lana Wachowski, and is set for a Dec. 22 theatrical release.

Because Groff is dressed in a suit at the end of the trailer, and appears to be talking to Reeves' character in an office, many "Matrix" watchers on social media have speculated he is playing a role akin to that of Agent Smith, the well-dressed antagonist in the earlier films.

Hugo Weaving, who played Agent Smith, is not in "The Matrix Resurrections."

Groff delivers one line at the end of the trailer: "After all these years, to be going back to where it all started, back to The Matrix."

In teaser trailers that have appeared online over the past couple of days, an image of Groff seeming to have his mouth melted shut  as Neo did during an interrogation scene in the first film  flashes on the screen.

"The Matrix," which premiered in 1999, is a science fiction film that deals with a simulated reality humans can become trapped in, and move into and out of by taking red or blue pills.

You can watch the "The Matrix Resurrections" trailer here.

Other actors in "The Matrix Resurrections" include Neil Patrick Harris, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Christina Ricci, Jada Pinkett Smith and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II.

Groff, who voiced Kristoff the mountain man in the animated "Frozen" movies for Disney, starred in two seasons of the Netflix series "Mindhunter."

The Conestoga Valley High School alumnus also received Tony Award nominations for his roles in "Hamilton" and "Spring Awakening" on Broadway, and has an Emmy nomination for the filmed version of "Hamilton" that airs on Disney+.

He had a recurring role on Fox TV's "Glee," and co-starred on HBO's "Looking."
When 14-year-old Noah Gibney began ninth grade at Wyomissing High School a few weeks ago, his How I spent my summer vacation probably stuck out a little more than his classmates.

For starters, Gibney released his first EP, titled The Serendipity Sessions, which features six of the first songs hed ever written, which just so happen to be co-written by Philadelphia music legend G. Love.

G. Love did a post online early in quarantine that he was wanting to collaborate, so I messaged him and he got back to me. Gibney explains. It started as a birthday gift, to write one song with him. I really liked working with him and he really liked working with me, so we just kept going. We ended up writing 15 songs together, and we picked six to go on the EP.

Gibney will perform some of those songs and a handful of covers for his Thursday set at LAUNCH Music Conference and Festival, where hell perform with his band The Noah Gibney Trio on the York College Stage at Penn Square at 6:45 p.m. Gibney joins a host of other local performers, including Bobby Gentilo and Matt Wheeler, as well as headliners Ice Nine Kills and Smokepurpp, at LAUNCH, which takes place at various venues in Lancaster city today through Sunday.

Gibney will join dozens of musicians in a similar goal  to be heard, and hopefully, to be appreciated for his music.

Something that Gibney has to set himself apart from others at LAUNCH is that he has official approval for his music from the highest office in the land.

A few months back, in the midst of brainstorming promotion for The Serendipity Sessions, Gibney decided that he should let President Joe Biden know that he might enjoy the EP. Recorded in Reading at Pagoda City Studio, the EP is full of breezy, road trip-ready songs such as Mystery and All Summer Love.

Gibney naturally assumed that President Biden would dig his music, but he says that he didnt necessarily expect a response, until he got one.

Basically, it was a normal Monday, and I got a call from an unknown caller from Washington, D.C., and I figured it was one of those spam callers, Gibney says. It ended up being from someone who worked for the president, and they told me that hed love to meet me when hes in Macungie at one of his speeches. I met with him, and he said that he really enjoyed my album. I signed a CD for him, and he signed a CD for me. It was a really great moment. My whole family was there, and we had a 10-minute conversation. When I walked out, I couldnt remember anything that had happened.

President Bidens message on the CD? Dont forget about me when you hit the charts.

Not content with making two famous fans, Gibney says that he continues doing what hes done since he was 3 years old, which is continue to work on his chops on guitar and piano. As a musician with several live shows coming up, but who still is at least two years away from even attaining a learners permit to drive to them, Gibney credits his family for helping to sustain his musical dreams.

Im super grateful to have such a supportive family, Gibney says. Neither of my parents play instruments, so just their support is amazing to have.
Never underestimate the power of a blind date. Seven years ago, Will Haughery was introduced to a lovely designer named Emma, who soon became the yin to his yang, both personally and professionally. Together, they now create elegant, silken furniture at East Otis Studio in Lancaster.

The furniture studio is part of their rustic farmhouse built in the 1800s, located on Millersville Pike. East Otis furniture pieces are carefully crafted with passion, expertise and locally sourced American hardwoods.

Wills crisp designs include indoor chairs, benches, dressers, mirrors and slab tables  the Friday Mirror, Otis Chair and Bench are his most popular pieces. He also makes custom pieces. His creations are graceful, solid, practical and pleasing to the eye  and the touch  in an organic, gratifying way. This 30-something furniture maker embodies the saying, Sawdust is man glitter, with an easy, no-nonsense vibe.

Art and design run deep in Wills veins. Creativity was nurtured during childhood and these days his talents emerge in sculpture, colorful, abstract paintings, as well as furniture. Meeting his British-born, clothes designer wife-to-be brought perfect harmony to his life  the respect and adoration between them is palpable.

I know building, she knows the visual  its a strong combination, Will says. Theres a conversation that happens. She adds an organic, soft, je ne sais quoi to my more brutalist (minimalist design) approach.

Family ties

Will was born and raised in Lancaster, and the youngest of five boys.

It was fun and chaotic  a few broken bones later, he says, chuckling.

The boys were home-schooled, and all graduated from college. While his family wasnt wealthy, he described his upbringing as worldly. His dad was a woodworker and cabinetmaker. His mother recognized Wills artistic inclinations at an early age and gave me space to explore that, within the home-school curriculum as well as outside of it, he says. I am very much both of my parents.

After graduating from Temple University, Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, where Will studied sculpture, he landed a gig at BDDW, a fine furniture maker in Philly with showrooms in SoHo, New York, and Milan, Italy. He worked there for eight years, learning how to do things, and how not to do things. He says their work is well-finished and he saw the importance of spending extra time finishing furniture, which he does on his own creations.

Will and Emma renovated their home in Philadelphias Fishtown neighborhood. It was on East Susquehanna Avenue, but they noticed a marble brick with the name Otis carved into it on a house on their block. Will did some sleuthing in the citys records and discovered their street was originally called Otis Street. Connecting the past to the future, the name East Otis Studio was born.

Selling the Fishtown home positioned them to return to Wills homeland and move to the nearly 3-acre, spacious farmhouse with a large workshop/studio. It is located near his parents home.

Emma has a full-time job but still manages the communication side of East Otis Studio and edits the designs.

She knows what clients want, Will says. The combination of masculine and feminine really helps the designs  its a strong suit for us.

Will and Emma work together toward simple and useful design.

The softness of the furniture profiles and details like leather feet under the wood legs and solid brass hardware, give the pieces an ageless appeal.

Functional yet special furniture

Being kind to the planet is part of the East Otis Studio brand. They use American-grown wood that is sourced locally, utilizing minimal waste methods, Will says. They do not use stains but enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

We pride ourselves on the finish feel and dont let a piece leave the studio until both of us are happy with it, he says.

Will describes his work as casual, simple and understated. I like to create objects that are not overly complicated, but special  something that will last generations.

The design element in the clients home is embraced. Emma says she enjoys putting spaces together  pairing soft elements to harder elements, which can maximize the impact of East Otis Studio pieces.

One of his most popular pieces is called the Friday Mirror. Its a large, legged, lean-against-the-wall piece with soft leather feet.

Its an everyday, getting ready, checking your outfit mirror  the selfie mirror you didnt know you needed, Will says. Its the ultimate you look amazing mirror.

Why is it called a Friday Mirror? Will says that back in Philadelphia he was working four 10-hour shifts a week, leaving Fridays to pursue my own dream. This mirror was the first East Otis-designed piece, aptly credited with that milestone four years ago. They are available in a variety of wood finishes and custom sizes and cost $1,200.

What about the Noon Dresser, a sleek, timeless piece made out of walnut with a deep luster finish and burnished brass hardware? Will says it was a solution to a storage problem.

We needed an aesthetic, sturdy and moveable storage unit that we could use to organize things. Its a set of drawers that looks as nice as a room divider or a dresser in the bedroom.

Its name has special meaning, too.

Noon is a nickname Emma has for me, he says.

Will says it felt good to come back to Lancaster and that the city has maintained some of its honesty from when he grew up here, as well as delicious farm-fresh food and the culture that goes along with that.

Its a great place  a hidden gem of opportunity. More artists should move here  but not too many, he says, chuckling.

Looking ahead

Living in a rustic home built around 1840 can keep anyone busy renovating  or just keeping the faucets from dripping. Fortunately, were not the kind of people who do well without a project, Emma says.

Their home is bright and airy and tastefully stark.

We try not to have too many things we dont need, Emma adds. The couple prefers to have a few things that are really beautiful.

In addition to building a business together and making their house feel more like a home, they are adding to their family. They have a puppy named Celine Dijon and are expecting their first child this November.

Their long-term vision for the future includes opening a retail gallery showcasing East Otis Studio creations as well as Emmas fashion designs  along with her flair for interior design.

The goal is to work side-by-side together, he says.

Will also plans to grow the studio, eventually hiring employees who will have room to work safely. Relying on word-of-mouth from clients and an Instagram page, they are prudent in their use of ad space.

We cant grow too big too quick  I want it to grow in a sustainable way that has long-term trajectory.

Just like the timeless pieces that grow from East Otis Studio.
Lancaster County District Attorney Heather Adams will not prosecute summary violations related to the Pennsylvania Department of Health order requiring masks in schools, she announced Wednesday.

Adams said in a published statement that schools should work to gain compliance through local engagement and education regarding the need to ensure public safety rather than go through law enforcement.

The guidance, which is consistent with what her office issued under Gov. Tom Wolfs earlier mask mandate, was distributed to Lancaster County law enforcement Tuesday and released to the public Wednesday. Its in line with state Department of Education guidance that the states schools should refer to their own policies and procedures for noncompliance and complaints.

Adams told LNP | LancasterOnline that she wanted to make her offices stance public because she had received a handful of inquiries from residents about how the order would be enforced.

The current school mask order is based on the state Disease Prevention and Control Law. Those who violate that law may be charged with a criminal summary offense, with the potential of fines. Jail time can be ordered if those fines are not paid, the law states.

Adams will not prosecute such an offense. However, the district attorney said she will prosecute crimes that may spring from the tense situations over the mask mandate, such as harassment, trespassing or other threatening or violent behavior.
Update: Nicole L. Gill-Schlegel was found and safely returned home on Sept. 11, Elizabethtown Borough police said in a news release.

Previously reported:

Elizabethtown Borough police are searching for a woman who hasnt been seen by her family in more than a week.

Nicole L. Gill-Schlegel, 46, of Elizabethtown, hasnt been seen by her family since Aug. 31, police said in a news release Wednesday. She was last seen driving a dark gray Saturn Aura with a Pennsylvania license plate.

Friday morning, Elizabethtown police chief Ed Cunningham said that police have not yet located her.

Gill-Schlegel may have been seen leaving Your Place Pizza and Pub in Hershey around 7 p.m. on Saturday, according to the news release.

Anyone with information which could assist in finding Gill-Schlegel is urged to contact Elizabethtown Borough police at 717-367-1835.
Two Lancaster County school districts agreed to allow students to attend school without a mask even if their families have not provided medical documentation proving their child should be exempt from the Pennsylvania Department of Healths school mask order, which went into effect this week.

The Penn Manor school board voted 8-1 to approve a grace period ending Sept. 21, and the Pequea Valley school board agreed, without a vote, to a grace period ending Sept. 16. The decisions came during meetings Tuesday night.

School officials with both districts said the decisions are not meant to violate the states order, but to give families adequate time to see a doctor and retrieve the necessary paperwork proving their child has an eligible health condition or disability to be exempt from wearing a mask in school.

Administrators at both districts, therefore, are temporarily accepting notes from parents, rather than medical professionals, stating their child is exempt.

The Acting Secretary of Health (Alison Beam) dropped this order on us right before a holiday, Penn Manor school board President Herk Rintz told LNP | LancasterOnline on Wednesday. To me, it is unreasonable to expect parents, on a holiday weekend, to get an appointment with the doctor.

Rintz said the boards intention is to comply with the states order, but he believes it is reasonable to allow families time to get a doctors note.

The order states eight allowable exemptions, ranging from when students eat, drink or play an instrument to when a mask would cause or exacerbate an existing health condition or disability.

On Friday, before the holiday weekend, the Pennsylvania Department of Education issued guidance regarding how to handle what was expected to be a massive surge of exemption requests. Penn Manor School District Superintendent Mike Leichliter said his district has received about 300 so far.

The guidance states schools should treat requests the same way they would when determining whether a student is eligible under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which establishes a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities.

Mark O'Neill, a spokesperson for the state Department of Health, said Wednesday that schools "should follow the spirit and intent of the masking order and require students, teachers and staff to wear masks." Schools should follow the same protocols as they would implementing other directives concerning the health and safety of students, he said. Failing to do so could result in a lawsuit, he said.

Time constraints and anger

Leichliter on Wednesday said making determinations on each exemption request will be extremely time-consuming. This puts school districts in a tough spot, Leichliter said. If the order came in the beginning of August, it wouldnt be as much of a concern, he said.

Were trying to focus on learning and education and establishing important routines, but, right now, our principals are spending their time documenting medical needs, Leichliter said.

Penn Manor school board Vice President Joseph Fullerton, the only board member to vote against the motion, declined to comment, saying Rintz is the boards point of contact. Mitchell Sweigart, who made the motion, declined to comment for the same reason.

At Pequea Valley, the board agreed on a grace period despite school district Superintendent Erik Orndorffs recommendation that they move forward adhering to the mandate. Orndorff said Wednesday he agreed to the grace period because he understands it could be difficult to obtain a doctors note in such little time.

We always hear that we cant make everybody happy, Orndorff said. It doesnt mean that we dont try. But this one is the toughest one Ive ever faced, because theres a lot of anger involved.

Both the Penn Manor and Pequea Valley school board meetings featured heated debate over mask requirements. More than 200 people attended Penn Manors meeting, and more than 100 attended Pequea Valleys. The majority of those who addressed both boards were in favor of a mask-optional approach.

God told us to fast, not wear a mask, Penn Manor resident Katrina Smith said at the meeting.

Gary Warmiak, a fifth grader at Paradise Elementary School in Pequea Valley, told the board that masks make it hard to focus on school when youre too focused on both being able to breathe or making sure your mask is on.

As for how Penn Manor and Pequea Valley will handle mask exemptions when their grace periods end, thats to be determined, Leichliter and Orndorff said, citing the need to consult with their solicitors and plan a long-term approach.

 Correspondents Emily Jones and Luis Nieves contributed to this story.
Mary Anater, a lawyer and county employee from Lancaster city, secured the Republican Committee of Lancaster Countys nomination for Lancaster County Clerk of Courts.

At a meeting Wednesday night, committee members selected Anater after two rounds of voting. Anater received 111 votes in the first round, with Eric Reath, Congressman Llyod Smuckers press secretary, coming in second with 101.

But after two other candidates were knocked out of the running, Anater beat Reath in the second round 146 to 112.

Thank you for your support and I look forward to being part of the team, Anater, an employee of the Lancaster County Treasurers Office and former law clerk for the county said in accepting the nomination.

The Clerk of Courts Office manages the records for the criminal division of the Lancaster County Court of Common Pleas and handles about 8,000 new criminal court records each year, according to its website.

The position became open in early August when Jackie Pfursich, who was elected Clerk of Courts in 2015 and reelected in 2019, was appointed county solicitor.

Since the seat was vacated after the May primary, Republican voters were not able to choose a nominee for a special election, leaving it up to a vote by the members of the county GOP committee.

Pfursichs appointment as solicitor occurred on Aug. 4, which is 91 days before the November election. Had her hiring as solicitor come one day later, the open Clerk of Courts seat instead would have been filled by recommendation from state Sens. Scott Martin and Ryan Aument and appointment by Gov. Tom Wolf, according to the Pennsylvania Constitution.

Anater faced stiff competition in Reath, whose campaign advisory committee included a slew of party insiders including Smucker; Chairman Kirk Radanovics wife, Loretta Radanovic; four area chairs; four state representatives; both Republican county commissioners; and two county row officers.

Also seeking the nomination were Grant Keener, of East Petersburg, interim assistant dean for admissions at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law and a graduate of Ohio Northern Universitys Claude W. Pettit College of Law; and Craig Storrs Jr., of Denver, a paralegal for Voce, a Harrisburg family services agency, who holds a bachelor of science degree in paralegal studies. Storrs was disqualified after receiving only three votes in the first round. Keener dropped out after receiving only 49 votes in the first round. Neither candidate threw their support behind Reath or Anater.

This is what I meant by losing to the right candidate, Storrs said after the second round. If I had to lose to someone, Im glad it was her.

Anater will stand for election Nov. 2, seeking to fill the remaining two years left in Pfursichs term. The job pays $86,527 per year.

Democrats will also be putting up a candidate, Lancaster County Democratic Committee Chair Diane Topakian said. Michelle Batt, a former Lancaster County public defender, is expected to be nominated later this week, campaign chair Carl Feldman said.

Anaters first challenge if she takes office in January would be responding to what Lancaster County President Judge David Ashworth called a staffing crisis in an Aug. 11 email to his fellow judges. Glen Beiler of the Ephrata Area Committee, who seconded Anater's nomination, mentioned Ashworths email in his speech and said Anater was well qualified to address the problems.

Rhonda Allen, who was appointed interim clerk, told LNP | LancasterOnline that her office is down roughly half of its budgeted employees.

Anater said that, having worked in the courthouse previously, she is aware of the staffing issues and appreciates the role it plays in the justice system. If elected, she said it would be the first thing she addresses.

Editor's note: A previous version of this story misattributed a quote referencing a email sent by President Judge David Ashworth. Glen Beiler is the committee member who brought up the email.
TORONTO (AP)  The leaders of Canadas opposition parties criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for calling parliamentary elections during a pandemic, speaking Wednesday night during their second debate of the campaign.

Trudeau called the vote last month hoping to win a majority of seats in Parliament, but polls indicate his Liberal party could lose power to the Conservatives in the Sept, 20 election.

Why did you call an election, Mr. Trudeau, in the middle of the pandemic, Conservative leader Erin OToole said during the French-language debate.

Canadians need to have a say how we get out of this, Trudeau responded.

Trudeau had wanted to capitalize on the fact that Canada is now one of the most fully vaccinated countries in the world, with more than 77% of Canadians 12 years and older having gotten the coronavirus shots.

We invested enough money to put us at the top of the list in the world, Trudeau said in French.

Canada, however, is in a fourth wave of infections driven by the delta variant and by those who remain unvaccinated.

The only reason you called an election was a selfish reason, to obtain more power, Jagmeet Singh, leader of the leftist New Democrat party, said to Trudeau.

Singh's party propped up Trudeau's Liberal party on most issues during the last sessions of Parliament. The Liberals didn't have a majority of seats in the House of Commons and had to rely on Singh's party to pass legislation.

A spirited Trudeau defended his identity as a Quebecer in a heated exchange with the Bloc Quebecois Yves-Francois Blanchet, who leads a party that believes Quebec should be its own nation separate from Canada.

Blanchet asked Trudeau why he feels he can tell Quebec what to do and think.

I am a Quebecer," Trudeau said. "I am proud of being a Quebecer. You do not have the unanimity on Quebec.

Daniel Beland, a politics professor at McGill University in Montreal, said Trudeau held his ground.

That was the most dramatic moment of the debate and probably the one during which Trudeau shined the most. His plea was passionate and he seemed genuine and credible, Beland said.

It might help Trudeau in Quebec and perhaps beyond. If he can offer a similar performance tomorrow evening in the English-language debate, this could help shape the course of the last stretch of the campaign. The pressure on OToole will be enormous to deliver a stronger performance.

Trudeau, the son of the late Liberal Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, became the second youngest prime minister in Canadian history when he was first elected with a majority of seats in Parliament in 2015 after almost a decade of Conservative Party government.

But there is some fatigue with Trudeau after six years, and scandals combined with high expectations have damaged his image for some Canadians. He won re-election in 2019 but with less than a majority of the seats.
THE ISSUE

A day after Lancaster Countys government approved a plan to address critical staffing shortages at the prison, an email obtained by LNP|LancasterOnline showed that another part of county government is facing a staffing crisis that threatens to disrupt normal operations, LNP | LancasterOnlines Carter Walker reported last week. An email from President Judge David Ashworth to the rest of the Lancaster County bench shows that the countys judicial branch is concerned that staff loss in the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts Office will impact court operations. Wrote Ashworth on Aug. 11: It is no exaggeration to say that the Clerk of Courts office is in crisis. ... With recent resignations and a few yet to come they will be down to only 4 clerks who are able to go to court (and one is still a trainee).  Obviously, this creates a very serious issue for the court.

Two years ago, Jackie Pfursich, then holding the elected position of county clerk of courts, won the praise of Josh Parsons, chairman of the county commissioners, for reducing the budget in the Clerk of Courts Office by $31,000.

He called the work of Pfursich and two other county officials who either had held the line on costs or reduced costs pretty amazing.

And perhaps it was. But Pfursich  who was appointed county solicitor earlier this summer by the Republican commissioners, Parsons and Ray DAgostino, over the objections of Democratic Commissioner Craig Lehman  seems to have left the Clerk of Courts Office in something of a pickle.

A brief aside: Lehman objected to selecting an elected official for an appointed position. While Pfursich seems very qualified to be county solicitor, her political connections to the Republican commissioners are worth mentioning.

According to Walkers reporting, records show that Pfursich has donated $650 to DAgostinos campaign committee; Parsons donated $1,000 to Pfursichs campaign when she first ran for clerk of courts in 2015; and Edwin Pfursich, Jackies husband, served as treasurer of Parsons campaign committee until May 27, well after former county solicitor Chris Hausner announced her intention to retire. Only one other candidate was interviewed for the county solicitor position.

But back to the staffing issue in the Clerk of Courts Office.

As Judge Ashworth sees it, Pfursichs temporary replacement, interim clerk Rhonda Allen, has been placed in a horrible situation.

That situation? Allen told LNP | LancasterOnline that her office has only 12 of a budgeted 19 employees, and two are leaving soon.

We originally had 21, Allen said. Personally, this is my personal opinion, it should be 24, but we could function with 21.

Because of the staffing challenges, employees in the office have had to double up on responsibilities, Allen said.

She said the two employees who will be departing soon are moving to positions that pay better. The starting rate for a clerk is $12.01 per hour.

We dont offer competitive wages to whats out there now, Allen said. You cant make people work for under $15 an hour if they dont want to work for $15 an hour.

This is true, as employers everywhere are discovering. In this climate, its going to be difficult, if not impossible, to find experienced employees for $3 less than what supermarkets are offering.

In our view, it would be smart to offer at least $15 to attract employees with expertise who would be productive and make the running of the county courts smoother. But as Walker reported, clerk salaries are set by a contract negotiated between the county and a union representing employees of several different county government offices.

A statement from the commissioners office said county officials are working on a variety of options to help departments like the clerks office and the prison to recruit employees. One idea, supported by Parsons: to use American Rescue Plan Act funds to pay for a professionally managed advertising campaign.

Is this what DAgostino meant when he said in late July that the commissioners were looking at how we could use that money internally?

By contrast, Lancaster city Mayor Danene Sorace said the city hoped to invest the American Rescue Plan funds in infrastructure and broadband, and support a sustainable and equitable COVID-19 recovery with an emphasis on affordable housing. That is, on peoples actual needs.

It seems like using federal relief funds for a professionally managed advertising campaign mostly would benefit whichever advertising company lands the campaign.

Why not use American Rescue Plan funds to pay for hiring and retention bonuses for employees in the Clerk of Courts Office, as the commissioners are doing with Lancaster County Prison employees? They all do essential work.

As the website of the Clerk of Courts Office explains, County court operations in Pennsylvania involve complex work processes and specialized expertise. A highly trained staff in the Clerk of Courts office is essential in order to initiate, process, coordinate, maintain and archive all the data and documents associated with each case, and have them available to the various users on a time sensitive basis.

Numerous county departments utilize case information to make critical decisions regarding incarceration of defendants, drivers license suspensions and financial penalties, the website noted.

And each year, the Lancaster County Clerk of Courts Office handles approximately 8,000 new criminal court records (adult, juvenile and summary). Since all documents pertinent to a criminal court case must be filed with the Clerk of Courts, the office is the hub of the criminal court system in the county. All criminal court related departments in county government rely upon the Clerks office for accurate and up-to-date records.

That offices other responsibilities include processing bail and appeals to state appellate courts.

No wonder Ashworth is worried about the staffing shortage.

If they (the clerks office) dont have the people to come into court, how are we supposed to function? he asked.

Its a good question.

The commissioners office disputed some of the staffing figures cited in Ashworths email. And, as Walker noted, the statement issued by the commissioners celebrated two new hires coming on board and the fact that there are applicants pending for other open clerk positions.

Were glad two new employees are coming on board, but even with them, the Clerk of Courts Office will be short-staffed. And the fact that there are applications pending for other open clerk positions doesnt really mean anything until those positions are filled.

Wed like to see the leaders of county government work things out expeditiously for the benefit of the many Lancaster County residents who expect the county courts to do their work speedily and, well, judiciously. Such cooperation would make for a nice change.

And county commissioners: Perhaps you can put the American Rescue Plan funds to good uses, beyond potentially rewarding an advertising company with an ad campaign. This county has plenty of needs that ought to be met.
A Journey From Nigeria to Neurosurgery

It has been almost 20 years since Oluwaseun Seun Omofoye, MD, a Nigerian native who moved to the United States at 16, embarked on his quest to become a neurosurgeon. Now, after completing his final year of fellowship training at Cedars-Sinai, the 37-year-old husband and father of two is officially beginning his long-sought-after career.

I am grateful to have made it through, said Omofoye in a LinkedIn post he shared, which has since garnered more than 9,500 likes and nearly 1,200 comments. It was challenging to say the least, but Im thankful to everyone who has supported and believed in me along the way.

Over the course of his training, Omofoye spent four years as an undergraduate, one year earning his masters degree, five years in medical school, eight years as a resident, and one year as a neurosurgical oncology fellow.

Seun came to Cedars-Sinai with his shirtsleeves rolled up, eager to teach residents and assist in any way he could, said Keith Black, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Cedars-Sinai and mentor to Omofoye. He has an ability to work almost without effort with other colleagues and members of the healthcare team. He is quite a talented young surgeon with a bright future ahead of him.

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Chasing the American Dream

When Omofoye was 16, his father won the U.S. visa lottery and subsequently gave up his job as a biochemist for a chance at the American dream. Along with his mother, father and three younger brothers, Omofoye immigrated to North Carolina from Nigeria.

They sacrificed their careers to get my brothers and me here, said Omofoye. Their selflessness has given me the opportunity to live out my goals. My dream is a reality because of them.

Although the move was exciting for Omofoye, who had always dreamed of becoming a doctor in the U.S., it meant his family was faced with the harsh realities of making a living in a new country.

My parents went from having great careers in Nigeria to working low-paying jobs in the United States, just trying to get by, remembers Omofoye. My father eventually went back to school to become a nurse while continuing to work full time.

Motivation From Mentors

Omofoye says he benefited from mentors and teachers who encouraged him along the way, but he also was motivated to push past adversity when confronted by naysayers.

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At several points along my journey, I was told that I couldnt do it, said Omofoye, who specifically recalls an undergraduate college advisor telling him he didnt have what it takes to get into medical school. And in medical school, I had advisors who told me there was a high possibility I wouldnt get into a neurosurgery residency, and to have a backup plan.

Omofoye also remembers early in his neurosurgery residency, an advisor discouraging him from continuing his training.

However, I believed in myself, said Omofoye. My faith, determination, and passion for neurosurgery kept me focused, motivated and moving towards my goal despite the obstacles. I also had supportive mentors who encouraged me not to give up.

In medical school, Omofoye co-founded a groupMinority Men in Medicinewhere underrepresented minority male medical students mentored minority male undergraduate students interested in the health professions. Likewise, the undergraduate students mentored local elementary school students, creating a pipeline of mentorship aimed at increasing the number of minority males in the health professions.

Encouragement also came from his mentor, Black, who Omofoye says taught him countless lessons and shared his experience starting out at Cedars-Sinai as a young neurosurgeon, eventually building a nationally ranked neurosurgery program.

I believe there are only four Black neurosurgery department chairs in the United States, said Omofoye. Working with Dr. Black, who I consider a master neurosurgeon, I learned a variety of surgical skills and innovative techniques in resecting brain tumors.

Giving Back

For Black, giving back to trainees like Omofoye is one of his greatest joys.

The reality is, its hard to imagine one achieving personal successany successwithout mentors, said Black, also the Ruth and Lawrence Harvey Chair in Neuroscience. My mentors had a willingness and openness to share adversities and take time to teach me strategies to overcome them.

Its hard to imagine that I would have made it anywhere close to where I am now without them.

With the completion of his fellowship under Black, Omofoye is headed to the Myrtle Beach area of South Carolina to build a cranial neurosurgery program and provide advanced subspecialty care for patients with brain tumors and intracranial pathologies.

As neurosurgeons, we play a remarkable role in the lives of individuals whom we meet at some of the worst times of their lives, and we have the ability to make a positive difference and alter the course of their lives, said Omofoye. Im very grateful to practice this profession. Overall, I want anyone with a dream to believe in themselves, pursue their goals regardless of what obstacles may come their way, and aim for their version of the American dream.
Balance Your People and Profits: Cal Bill Pushes Amazon, Walmart, and Other Big E-Retailers

Last week, warehouse workers, labor leaders, elected officials, and community groups came together on the steps of the California State Capitol. Their goal was to generate public support for Californias pro-worker Warehouse Workers Protection Act,  also called Assembly Bill (AB) 701 and to encourage the state Senate to pass it.

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Working in warehouses for corporations like Amazon has quickly become one of the most dangerous jobs in the private sector, Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) asserted, placing giant e-retailers square in the scope of her target.

In the United States, e-commerce is skyrocketing, growing from a $441.51 billion dollar industry in 2017 into a market valued at $759.47 billion in 2020. Amazon.com has the largest market share (about 40 %) among leading e-retailers, followed by Walmart (about 7%) and eBay (about 4 %).

Workers are risking their bodies to guarantee same-day delivery and being pushed to the point that many cant even break long enough to use the bathroom, she said. There is no excuse for a company to prioritize customers convenience and their own profits over the safety of their workers.

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Gonzales said she authored AB 701 to help decrease worker injury, encourage more transparency and end the use of production quotas at corporations and government agencies, which critics say contribute to low job satisfaction and harmful working conditions.

Workers are risking their bodies to guarantee same-day delivery and being pushed to the point that many cant even break long enough to use the bathroom. There is no excuse for a company to prioritize customers convenience and their own profits over the safety of their workers, said Gonzales.

In March 2020, Irene Tung and Deborah Berkowitz released a National Employment Law Project (NELP) report titled Amazons Disposable Workers: High Injury and Turnover Rates at Fulfillment Centers in California.

According to the study, Workers who cant keep up extreme productivity goals are fired or encouraged to quit.

Amazon workers around the country have reported being subject to unsustainably fast productivity requirements resulting in injury and exhaustion. Workers describe pushing their bodies to the brink to avoid automatic termination for missing quotas, the NELP report stated. Data from the companys own records have confirmed their accounts showing that Amazon warehouses have stunningly high injury rates.

Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose), chairperson of Assembly Labor Committee; state Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose), chair of Senate Labor Committee; state Senator Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles); and chair of the Assembly Public Safety Committee Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles) all attended the rally.

Jones-Sawyer said his 19-year-old son worked at Amazon this past summer before heading off to college in Colorado. He got sick and had to take time off work. When he returned to work, after three weeks he was fired.

Unfortunately, he saw all the bad things about working in a factory, Jones-Sawyer said.

Jones-Sawyer said he attended the rally for his son.

So thats why I am here, not only for my son but all the other sons who dont have fathers who could speak up for them, he said. When it comes back to the Assembly for concurrence, I will stand up, speak up and vote for it again.

The language in AB 701 directs the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) to establish new standards by Jan. 1, 2023, that are designed to minimize the risk of injuries and disorders among warehouse employees who are subject to production quotas.

The Californiaof Commerce (CalChamber) labeled AB 701 job killer legislation in April and criticized it as one of 23 legislative bills that would place California employers and the states economy in harms way should it become law.

(AB 701) threatens warehouse employers with duplicative costly litigation by creating a new, independent private right of action, and a representative action under the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), for failing to comply with vague standards, CalChamber said in a statement. The organization is the largest business advocate in California.

In California, Amazon warehouses are located in counties whose populations are overwhelmingly people of color, according to the NELP study. Combined, nearly 75% of warehouse workers are minorities. Of that number about 55 % are Latinos and about 9% are Black.

If passed by the Senate and signed by Gov. Newsom, AB 701 would require employers to inform employees about quotas that corporations and organizations set to measure their performance.

The legislation requires employers to quantify work employees are expected to do. They must explain specific tasks and how meeting those goals may affect their job standing.

AB 701 also directs the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) to establish new standards by Jan. 1, 2023, that are designed to minimize the risk of injuries and disorders among warehouse employees who are subject to production quotas.

The bill also prohibits an employer from taking disciplinary action (including firing) against employees for failure to meet quotas that have not been disclosed to them. In addition, the legislation prohibits quotas that do not allow a worker to comply with meal or rest periods or occupational health and safety laws.
Black Star Network: Roland Martin Announces New Black TV Network

On the evening of September 2, journalist Roland Martin, the host of #RolandMartinUnfiltered, announced an over-the-top media (or OTT) network that will broadcast directly to viewers free via the internet and a phone app. The new Black owned network, Black Star Network (curated by Roland S. Martin), will feature new shows and live stream Black news and information focused on news, politics, technology and culture.

The first interview to debut on Black Star Network will be with legendary civil rights attorney Fred Gray, on September 4. Gray, 90, was the legal mastermind behind several civil rights victories and an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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LA Sentinel Exclusive Interview:Roland Martin Discusses New Digital Show #RolandMartinUnfiltered

Unlike several other Black content related news and information platforms, Black Star Network is 100 percent Black-owned.

Black Star Network will be available on all platforms including AppleTV, Roku, Samsung, XBox and Amazon FireTV. The new networks content will also be carried on a phone app for Apple and Android phones at Black Star Network. The networks website, BlackStarNetwork.com is also now live.

Even though many other TV networks charge viewers to see content, Black Star Network will not.

A lot of our people simply cannot afford to pay for a streaming service. We purposely chose to keep this free. We purposely chose for people to be able to access our content  thats what weve done with this show as well, Martin said referring to #RolandMartinUnfiltered. The network will be ad supported.

Martins show #RolandMartinUnfiltered has been streaming live on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with the support of the shows Bring the Funk Fan Club donations which have totaled over a million dollars in the last 18 months.

Martin recently announced the construction of a new studio space in Washington, D.C. close to The White House.

The veteran journalist, who hails from Houston, also has plans to announce Black Star Networks 24-hour streaming channel to be launched during the first quarter of 2022.

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Black Star Networks social media addresses are Facebook.com/BlackStarNetwork, YouTube.com/BlackStarNetwork, Instagram.com/BlackStarNetwork and Twitter.com/BlkStarNetworkon twitter.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations Continue Dropping in Los Angeles County

The number of coronavirus patients in Los Angeles County hospitals continues to fall, declining from 1,480 on Sunday to 1,463, according to the latest state figures.

The number of those patients in intensive care also declined, from 433 to 412. The latest figures came as county health officials reported 11 additional deaths associated with the virus and 1,540 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the county totals to 1,420,560 cases and 25,456 fatalities since the pandemic began.

Mondays case and death numbers likely reflect reporting delays over the weekend, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Meanwhile, officials have also confirmed the presence of whats known as the Mu variant of the virus, which is described as highly contagious and potentially able to evade vaccines.

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The countys health department has detected 167 instances of the Mu variant, all between June 19 and Aug. 21, with most of them found in July. The Mu variant  officially labeled a variant of interest by the World Health Organization  was first discovered in Colombia in January, and has since been detected in 39 countries.

Some initial reviews of the variant have indicated it has the potential to evade currently available vaccines. But in a statement Friday, county health officials said more studies are needed to determine whether Mu variant is more contagious, more deadly or more resistant to vaccine and treatments than other COVID-19 strains.

The Delta variant remains the dominant COVID-19 strain circulating in the county, with Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer saying Thursday it represents nearly all of the cases that undergo the sequencing needed to identify specific viral mutations. Delta is labeled a variant of concern by the WHO.

The identification of variants like Mu, and the spreading of variants across the globe, highlights the need for L.A. County residents to continue to take measures to protect themselves and others, Ferrer said.

This is what makes getting vaccinated and layering protections so important. These are actions that break the chain of transmission and limits COVID-19 proliferation that allows for the virus to mutate into something that could be more dangerous.

Ferrer noted Thursday that the county has begun to see decreases in the rate of new infections. According to Ferrer, the countys cumulative seven-day rate of new cases was 159 per 100,000 residents last week, a 16% drop from the previous week and down 22% from the peak of 204 per 100,000 residents in mid-August.

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The countys rate of people testing positive for the virus rose Friday to 3.3%, up from 2.97% a day earlier. Among eligible county residents age 12 and over, 75% have received at least one dose of vaccine, while 65% are fully vaccinated.

Again touting the effectiveness of the vaccines, Ferrer said that of nearly 5.3 million residents who were fully vaccinated as of Tuesday, 37,614 have tested positive for the virus, for a rate of 0.71%, while 1,049 have been hospitalized, a rate of 0.02%. Of those fully vaccinated, 118 have died, for a rate of 0.0022%.

About 90% of all the local deaths associated with COVID-19 were in people with underlying health condition, according to the countys health department. The most common conditions were hypertension (present in 55% of fatalities), diabetes (43%) and heart disease (29%).
Dr. Tony Allen Appointed as Chair of Presidents Board of Advisors on HBCUs

President Joe Biden announced his intent to appoint Dr. Tony Allen as the Chair of the Presidents Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The Board will advance the goal of the HBCU Initiative, established by the Carter Administration, to increase the capacity of HBCUs to provide the highest-quality education to its students and continue serving as engines of opportunity. The Biden-Harris Administration said it remains committed to supporting the vital mission of HBCUs.

Through the American Rescue Plan and by forgiving capital improvement debt of many these institutions, the Biden-Harris Administration has already committed more than $4 billion in support.

Reestablishing the White House HBCU Initiative  and placing strong leadership at the head of the Board  will allow the administration to build on that financial commitment with continued institutional support, administration officials said.

Read Related: The American Rescue Plan Provides Relief for Small Businesses

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Dr. Allen became President of Delaware State University in January 2020, after serving as Provost and Executive Vice President since July 2017.

Prior to joining the university, he brought a diverse background in the private and nonprofit sectors.

He served as Managing Director of Corporate Reputation at Bank of America; co-founded the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League and Public Allies Delaware; and led Delawares K12 public education reform effort from 2014  2019. Dr. Allens tenure has largely been through the pandemic, but he and his team have built a strong portfolio of accomplishments focused on student success.

The university has seen its elevation to the No. 3 public HBCU in America (US News), an R2 high research activity designation, and the historic acquisition of nearby Wesley College.

The universitys Together COVID-19 plan has been touted as a national example of campus safety strategy, and a year into the pandemic enrollment has shattered all previous records.

Dr. Allen has drawn national attention to Delaware State University through successful fundraising ($40 million in 2020) and national appearances on major media platforms including ABC World News Tonight, CNN, the Black News Channel, and many others. He also served as the chief executive officer of the 59th Presidential Inaugural Ceremonies.

Dr. Allen is Chairman Emeritus of the National Urban Fellows and a Whitney Young Awardee for Advancing Racial Equality, the National Urban Leagues highest honor.

Currently, he serves on the boards of Graham Holdings and Pepco Holdings and on the Economic and Community Advisory Council for the Philadelphia Federal Reserve. Dr. Allen holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy from the University of Delaware.

Read Related: National Urban League Launches Comprehensive Plan to Address Racial Digital Inequities
Gov. Thanks Californians: More than 80 Percent of Us Have Now Taken at Least One COVID Shot

On Aug. 31, California Gov. Gavin Newsom held a press conference at a vaccination clinic in Oakland to thank the majority of Californians for receiving at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

He also urged more Californians to get vaccinated for COVID-19, as he echoed the advice of health experts across the United States that getting the shot is the best way out of this pandemic.

Thank you to the people of the state of California for being mindful that this pandemic is not behind us, that as we battle this delta variant, this mutation, which now represents 98% of the genomic tests that we are conducting, that we still have work to do, Newsom said, announcing that 80% of eligible Californians have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

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Read Related: Dodgers and Governor Gavin Newsom Work to Bring Fans Back to Baseball Games

So, I want to encourage everyone in that spirit but with gratitude in my heart, gratitude to all of you that have done the right thing, got that first dose, and I would remind you to take that second dose which is critical, Newsom said.

The governors office also issued a warning the same day via Twitter.

Now, were in a pandemic of the unvaccinated as they fill up hospitals & ICUs. Vaccines are how we end this pandemic, a part of that tweet reads.

Approximately 68.4% of Californias total population (counting those that are ineligible for vaccines) has received at least the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while about 55.4% of the states total population are fully vaccinated.

Those numbers increase with age, with 81.9% of Californians 18 years old or above receiving at least one dose of the vaccine and over 66% of those in the same age range being fully vaccinated, according to the California Health and Human Services Agencys data.

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Read Related: California State Governor Gavin Newsom Visits Kendren Hospital

Newsom spoke optimistically assessing the pandemics current impact on Californias health care systems.

Were seeing a plateauing in hospitalizations, were seeing a modest increase now, not a large increase, in ICUs and we have seen that positivity rate drop from 7.1%. Just a few weeks ago now down to 4.6%. Its a long-winded way of saying this: thank you, Newsom said.

Newsom also mentioned the possibility of booster shot access and who might need one.

And to those that need to avail themselves, the immuno-compromised, to that booster shot, know that California is setting up the protocols and processes to make that as seamless as possible with more sites available to individuals than in any other time in the history of this pandemic, he said.

Read Related: BLACK VOTES MATTER  OUR VOTES COUNT

In his official column On the Record, Newsom reiterated how important it is that Californians remember that we arent quite out of the woods yet.

So far in California, there have been 4.51 million COVID-19 cases and 66,388 deaths related to the deadly virus. Los Angeles County accounts for more than a quarter of those fatalities with 25, 434 deaths.

Yesterday, there were 9,727 new cases in the state.

This situation is very real. California is at a critical point with the Delta variant. It is extremely contagious  over 60 percent more transmissible than the original COVID-19 strain  and has become the dominant strain circulating in the state. The risk for exposure and infection from COVID-19 and its variants will remain until more people get vaccinated, the governor wrote.

California Black Medias coverage of COVID-19 is supported by the California Health Care Foundation.
Judge Patricia Titus Selected Coroner in 1997 Jackson Death Case Clearly Unqualified: Seven Reasons Why

Dr. David M. Posey was woefully unqualified as a coroner, yet Deputy District Attorney Patricia Titusnow LA Superior Court Judge Titusselected and paid Posey $3,300 for expert testimony in the 1994 accidental drowning of Delores Dee Dee JacksonMichael Jacksons sister-in-law. Dr. Posey changed his conclusion in the case from accidental to homicide-assisted drowning more than three years after the initial autopsy of Tito Jacksons ex-wife, which led to the conviction of Donald J. Bohana for murder.

No Coroner or Autopsy Training. Lack of Experience

Dr. Poseys resume cites on-the-job training at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. According to Bohana family correspondence with the institute and the institutes website, it does not teach about forensic pathology or investigations of unnatural death. The Institute only provides training that amounts to, second opinion diagnostic consultations on pathologic specimens, such as biopsies from military veterans and civilian doctors, including dental and veterinary sources. The AF Institute of Pathology does not perform autopsies, let along autopsies related to determining a cause of death in a possible murder investigation, so thus it cant provide hands-on autopsy training, to a resident or a trainee.

Falsification of Credentials. He was a Coroner-Wannabe

Posey claimed in his resume that he received formal training at the Maryland Medical Examiners Office. When queried about training opportunities, the Maryland Medical Examiners Office replied, We dont have on-the-job forensic training. The only training that we provide is a fellowship for medical doctors who have completed their residency in pathology and are working toward becoming a board-certified medical examiner. Based on his resume, Posey did not enter or complete a qualified pathology residency program and he was not studying, no had studied to become a board-certified medical examiner, anywhere.

Phony Coroners License

A certificate Posey had from the American Board of Pathology was issued in Louisiana. The actual American Board of Pathology, however, is headquartered in the state of Florida. According to the ABP, it has never been based in Louisiana. It was founded in 1936 in Chicago, IL and is now based in the city of Tampa, FL. The pathology board that Posey received his board certification from appears to be a diploma mill, which fraudulently qualified him to earn employment at the L.A. County Medical Examiners Office, one of the largest ME offices in the world.

Posey Perjured Himself on the Witness Stand

During the trial, prosecutor Patricia Titus asked Posey, How many autopsies had you performed up to August 27, 1994? Posey replied, Oh, it was probably somewhere in the neighborhood of around 900. He made the same assertion to the grand jury convened in this case. Based on Poseys resume, this number seems absurd and impossible, since Posey never appears to have been a full-time coroner or medical examiner. It is unclear and unsubstantiated, where or when he would have performed any more than the few autopsies he possibly performed when he worked part-time within a span of six months for the coroners office in Los Angeles.

According to departmental records, Dr. Posey worked for the LA County Department of the Medical Examiner-Coroner, from July 29, 1994 to January 31, 1995. In total during that time, he worked only 29 days. He was hired to work only on Saturday and Sunday nights. He resigned on January 31, 1995. Therefore, when Judge Morris Jones appeared to believe that Posey was a current member of the L.A. Coroners Office staff in 1997-1998, during the pre-trial phase and trial of Donald Bohana, the judge was being misled

Posey Illegally Changed Autopsy Report

Yet, in September 1996, as a then private citizen, post-resignation from his part-time job at L.A. County, Posey changed the autopsy finding about Dee Dee Jacksons death to homicide-assisted drowning. Why was a private citizen Posey, allowed to alter the conclusion of an L.A. County Medical Examiner-Coroners office autopsy, without the legal qualification and basis to do so?

Relied on Others to Determine the Initial Cause of Death: Said He Changed His Report Based on What a LifeGuard Told Him

Posey was asked at the trial, You told the Grand Jury that you had agreed with Dr. Lakshmanan Sathyavagiswaran [a veteran LA medical examiner and the former chief ME, who had testified at numerous L.A. County trials], that the injuries [to Delores Jackson] were consistent with a rescueand it was only after you visited the scene and consulted with a water rescue expert [beach lifeguard] that you then concluded that it was a homicide. Is that correct?

Posey replied, Thats correct.

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This reliance on other experts is far from usual for a pathologist. Dr. Michael Baden, one of the worlds foremost experts, who was the Chief Forensic Pathologist for the New York State Police, a board-certified pathologist with residency training, and performed more than 20,000 autopsies in his career, testified, I have never in 43 years, and I dont know of any other forensic pathologist, who has ever consulted with an aquatic expert to determine whether injuries on a body are due to assault or due to natural conditionsThe forensic pathologist is an expert on injuries to the body.I dont consult with firearms experts to evaluate bullet wounds to the body.Just the same with aquatic consultants. Dr. Posey does not appear to know a pathologists job. Stephen Kay, who worked for the LA District Attorneys Office and helped send the Manson family to prison, was asked about Poseys credentials in another case. Kay called Posey a fraud.

Posey Autopsy Change Disputed by His Own Colleague

During an evidentiary hearing, Dr. Christopher Rogers, a board-certified forensic pathologist with 25 years of experience at the LA County Medical Examiner-Coroners office, disagreed with Poseys findings. Rogers said, From the condition of Ms. Jacksons body, I cannot tell if it was an accident, suicide or homicide.

Lack of Opposing Expert Opinion in Trial. Famed Baden Barred From Testifying

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, Bohanas attorney, Harland Braun, did not put any experts, including Dr. Baden or Dr. Lakshmanan, on the stand to refute Poseys highly questionable testimony. Dr. Lakshmanan was available and willing to testify that Dee Dee Jackson drowned by accident. In fact, four times in their closing argument, the prosecution mentioned the fact that Braun had called no experts to support Bohanas version of the events of the night of Dee Dee Jacksons death. Even the judge, Norman Tarle, said on the record, These expert(s) are impressive and could have offered something useful at trial. Dr. Baden was so incensed at not being called to testify at the trial, he said he would remain in Los Angeles to hear for himself why. Harland Braun never returned his calls.

Braun also could have called Dr. Glen Egstrom, an aquatic expert, whom Bohana had retained. Dr. Egstrom was ready to refute the prosecutions beach lifeguard experts testimony, which supported the conclusion that Dee Dee was murdered. Egstrom said that Bohanas version of how he got Dee Dees body out of the pool was consistent with the state of the body. Egstrom later said, Mr. Bohana was a [former] wrestler and a good swimmer, and his wrestling training would have aided him in a recovery from the pool in the manner he described.

Character Issues of Credibility. Dr. Posey is a Serial Wife Beater

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Pamela Posey, David Poseys ex-wife, submitted an Application and Declaration in support of her request for an Order Prohibiting Domestic Violence against her husband, Dr. David M. Posey. She chronicled a history of beatings, rapes and abuse over the course of their 10-year marriage (1992-2002), often in front of their three small children. Pamela Posey alleged that David Posey also had a string of affairs during their marriage. On October 12, 2001, the Superior Court issued a restraining order to Pamela Posey against Dr. David Posey.

An Miscarriage of Justice, an Unfair Trial Riddled With Reasonable Doubt

With an unqualified expert who was a wife beater supporting the prosecution and the jury left in the dark about qualified experts supporting the defense, Donald J. Bohana had little chance of being acquitted of the charges against him for the death of Dee Dee Jackson. The trial was clearly unfair and was conducted in an irregular manner with a pseudo coroner who was not working for the LA Coroners office when he changed the conclusion about the cause of death. Having served more than two decades in prison, having survived a stroke and COVID-19, Donald J. Bohana deserves to be released for the accidental death of Dee Dee Jackson, instead of still being held behind bars based on a trumpedup conviction from a proven fraud.

Scot Macdonald is the author of Deadly Dance: The Chippendales Murders, Saucy Jack: Alias Jack the Ripper, and the five novels. He was education at the University of British Columbia, University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Southern California.
Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center Receives Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award

The Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center believes strongly in delivering the highest quality health care services, and this was underscored by receiving the American Heart Associations 2021 Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award that recognizes exceptional care for stroke patients.

To be named a recipient of this prestigious award, Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center had to meet specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period.

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These measures include evaluation of the proper usage of medications and other stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery, and reducing death and disability for stroke patients. Before discharge, stroke patients also needed to receive education on managing their health, get a follow-up visit scheduled, as well as other care transition interventions.

We are dedicated to improving the quality of care for our stroke patients by implementing the American Heart Associations Get With The Guidelines-Stroke initiative, said Dr Babak Morvarid, Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Physician Stroke Program Director. The tools and resources provided help us track and measure our success in meeting evidenced-based clinical guidelines developed to improve patient outcomes.

Kaiser Permanente West Los Angeles Medical Center joined all Kaiser Permanente hospitals in Southern California and Hawaii in receiving this prestigious award.
Note to Hollywood, Beverly Hills: Your Vote Matters in Californias Recall Election

We are just days away from a special election to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom. Voters around the state, including those of us here in Hollywood and Beverly Hills, are already returning our mail-in ballots.

The last chance to ensure our voices are heard will be on election day, Sept. 14.

As President of the Beverly Hills/Hollywood NAACP, I am asking all members of our community to get out and vote either by mailing back your ballot or at the polls in-person. No matter who you choose, no matter your background, age or affiliation, we at the NAACP are urging you to vote in this election.

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If you are not registered, its not too late to register to vote in person.

This recall election asks you two questions. The first asks if you support recalling (removing) Governor Newsom. If more than 50% support the recall, the current governor will be replaced. The ballots second question lists all of the nearly 50 eligible candidates who want to be governor. Whoever gets the most votes will hold the office through January 2023, the remainder of Newsoms term.

Whoever is declared governor after the election will also be in charge of the budget of the worlds fifth largest economy. They will oversee the states recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. And they will have to collaborate with the Legislature on finding solutions to housing affordability and homelessness and lead the response to the historic drought and wildfires weve seen this past year.

Voting is one important way that we can participate in our democracy and the Beverly Hills/Hollywood NAACP wants our community to have an appreciation for the fact that your vote is your voice. The NAACP has been just one part of a nationwide movement fighting for the right of Black Americans to vote for over 100 years. Over that period, brave NAACP activists have risked their lives for this fight, including activists like George W. Lee, who was brutally murdered in 1955 in retaliation to his efforts to register African Americans to vote. His sacrifice, alongside countless other racial equity fighters, is a reminder that the right to vote as a US citizen should never be taken for granted.

Read Related: Five Ways to Make Sure Our Votes Count in the Upcoming Recall Election

Thankfully, our state makes voting so convenient that there is no excuse for anyone not to vote. In 2016, California lawmakers passed the Voters Choice Act (VCA). The VCA expanded early voting in Los Angeles County. Traditional polling places have been replaced with vote centers which serve as a one-stop shops for all your voting needs.

At a vote center, you can vote in person, get help in multiple languages, cast your vote by using an accessible voting machine, and utilize same day registration. Voters can vote at any center in the county up to 10 days before Sept.14.

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All registered Los Angeles-area voters have been sent a ballot in the mail. Returned ballots have already been counted.

Read Related: Black Leaders Voice Strong Support for Gov. Newsom as Voters Return Recall Ballots

The Secretary of States website offers a tool to help you find early voting and ballot drop-off locations in your neighborhood. You can use the BallotTrax tool to confirm that your vote has been counted.

So, do your part. Get out and vote.

About the Author

Ron Hasson is the President of the Hollywood / Beverly Hills NAACP.
Sojourner Truth descendants give great-grandpa a marker

As O.D. Collins sang His Eye is On the Sparrow, generations of Sojourner Truth descendants gathered around the headstone of a man who died 122 years ago.

Though they had never met Thomas Schuyler, the family of Sojourner Truth in attendance owed their very existence to him, the Battle Creek Enquirer reports.

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Barbara Allen, a sixth-generation Truth descendent and author of a childrens book about her great-grandma, organized a marker dedication recently for Thomas Schuyler at Harmonia Cemetery. Schuyler, who died in 1899, was the husband of Sophia, the infant with whom Truth escaped slavery in New York in 1826.

It was important that he didnt go unnoticed, Allen said. Just like if (Sojourner) didnt take Sophia with her when she walked away from slavery, if Sophia wouldnt have met Thomas, we wouldnt be here.

The eight descendants who attended the ceremony trace their linage to Truth through Sophia and Thomas Schuyler.

Truth, then Isabella Baumfree, took the infant Sophia with her when she walked 5 miles to her freedom, leaving a husband and three other children behind. They walked to the farm of Isaac and Maria Van Wagener, who did not believe in the institution of slavery, but still paid their former owner, John Dumont, $20 for Isabellas services for a year and $5 for Sophia.

Little is known about the Schuylers. They ended up living in the Spiritualist village of Harmonia, where Truth settled for 10 years beginning in 1857.

Calhoun County land records show that lot 65 in the spiritualist village of Harmonia (now Fort Custer Industrial Park), was sold by Sophia and her sister Diana in 1896 for $115. A 1900 Detroit News editorial stated that Sophia Truth Schuyler was being sent to the Calhoun County poor house and called on the public to support her rescue. She died at the county farm in Marshall in 1901 at the age of 75.

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Sophia and Thomas had a daughter named Fannie, Sojourners only granddaughter. She would marry an Irishman named Frank Liechey in 1895. At some point the name changed to McLiechey.

Fannie and Frank produced Thomas McLiechey, and his daughter, Juanita, gave birth to Allens mother, Ann Irene Terrell.

Thomas McLiechey of Battle Creek, a fifth-generation Truth descendent, could not attend Thursdays ceremony due to health issues. He had previously purchased the headstone for Sophia at the Harmonia Cemetery. The historic burial ground is managed by Bedford Township and accessible with permission.

Every time I hear about Sojourner Truth, what I learned about her, when she left and walked away that morning, she left with her daughter, McLiechey told the Enquirer in 2019. Theres always been two people who walked away to freedom that day. I often wondered why they never mentioned her daughter.

McLiechey and Allen had spent time at the ceremony, and his act of remembrance inspired Allen to do the same for their great-grandpa.

Allen said Thomas Schuylers marker cost $600 and the foundation was $350. She paid for roughly half of the marker, with the other half provided by friends through a GoFundMe campaign, while the Historical Society of Battle Creek, the Battle Creek Regional History Museum and the Sojourner Truth Center for Liberation and Justice covering the cost of the foundation.

During the ceremony, the Rev. William James Wyne of Second Missionary Baptist Church in Battle Creek said, A marker of a grave is another moment of memory. Thomas Schuyler, who was married to Sophia, now has his own visible marker, that not only represents his death, but represents his life. May the ancestors continue to dig up old memories so people will know these people did not just die in Battle Creek, but they lived in a meaningful way.

Amanda Marshall of Battle Creek, an eighth-generation Truth descendent, brought along her four daughters, KaLeahya Scott, 8, Jaeleona Scott, 4, Avianna Watson, 2, and Alayah Watson, 3.

My aunt and my mom told me about (Sojourner) when I was like 10. I really didnt know too much about it, Marshall said. Now Im at the age where I want to learn and thats why I brought them today. I want to show them their generations. (KaLeahya) was like, `Hold on, we talk about her in school. Thats your grandmother.

Kimberly Holley, executive director of the Sojourner Truth Center for Liberation and Justice, said the gathering of descendants helps to make the iconic abolitionist and suffragist feel more tangible.

At the Sojourner Truth Center, we absolutely want to amplify her legacy, but we also want people to see themselves in her, Holley said. She was a human just like the rest of us. She used her life experiences to impact the world in a way that she wanted, to make the changes she wanted to make. All of us can do that.
South L.A. Residents Testify Before Redistricting Commission

Black and Brown residents shared their thoughts about the composition of Council District 9 during the September 2 meeting of the Los Angeles City Council Redistricting Commission.

The comments were delivered at the latest public hearing that the commission hosted as part of the redistricting process, which requires that the boundaries of council districts be redrawn following each census and that each district be approximately equal in size.

In preparing their recommended redistricting plan for the City Council, the 21-member commission takes into account the testimony given by citizens detailing the histories and experiences that impact and define their neighborhoods. The goal, according to the commission, is to ensure inclusive representation, secure needed assets, and maintain a strong community.

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The purpose of todays hearing is to hear from you and how you describe your community, what makes your community unique and what you and your neighbors share in common, said Commissioner Miguel Martinez, who was appointed to the commission by CD 9 Councilmember Curren D. Price.

This is vital in the redistricting process and in the recreation of new boundaries. People who have common interest and needs often benefit from being grouped together in a single district. We value your time, so thank you for being here today, he added.

Also, the Black redistricting commissioners  the Rev. Edward Anderson, Charisse Bremond-Weaver and Valerie Lynne Shaw, appointed by CD 10 Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas, Mayor Eric Garcetti and CD 8 Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, respectively  were on hand for the hearing as well as.

Read Related:Make Your Voice Heard  Redistricting will determine the future of Black political representation

Neighborhoods like Adams Normandie, University Park and Exposition Park need to be protected, notseparated, said Jacqueline Dupont-Walker, MTA commissioner and executive director of Ward Economic Development Corporation, which operates affordable housing complexes in CD 9.

Please continue to look at equity and ensure that CD 9 is a vibrant district economically and recognize the kind of leadership that our current councilmember gives, she said.

Read Related: The Census, Redistricting and The Republican Conspiracy

The Rev. Patricia Strong Vargas, pastor of Mount Salem Church at 762 S. Central Avenue, also urged the commission to keep our community and council district together.

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We have built a culture and unit and a neighborhood that the city would really be proud of, but we got to stay together. Our community is made up of diverse neighborhoods, rich with history and culture and full of interesting and unique places to enjoy. Our neighborhood has culture and we would like it to stay the same, insisted Vargas.

Other speakers echoing the opinion that CD 9 should keep its current boundaries included Pastor William Smart, president/CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Southern California; Dolce Vasquez, the owner of two properties in the district; and the Rev. K.W. Tulloss, pastor of Weller Baptist Church and president of the Baptist Ministers Conference of L.A. and Southern California.

Benjamin Torres, president/CEO of CD Tech, proposed going beyond keeping CD 9 together to preserving all of South Los Angeles for Black and Brown representation. Torres said his organization focuses on race equity in the 8th, 9th and 10th Council Districts and he wanted those district to remain untouched.

We have worked very hard to forge an identity around historic South L.A. that builds unity between Black, Brown and undocumented residents. We built that unity through struggle, through community building, organizing, and love, said Torres. Love for our community and our neighborhood. We believe that grass root residents of low income must have a seat at the table if were going to transform.

Another suggestion about an expanded CD 9 came from Tim Watkins, president/CEO of Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC), who requested that the commission consider incorporating the Watts neighborhood into the district. Currently, Watts is part of CD 15, which mainly covers San Pedro, Wilmington and the Harbor section of Los Angeles.

Preceding his testimony with a short video advocating for the Watts annexation, Watkins urged, The four-minute clip expresses why its so important that the area of Watts be considered for inclusion in CD 9. Looking at the map [of CD 15], were like on a island and we desperately want to be with neighbors.

Similar comments came from speakers such as Keenan, a WLCAC volunteer, who stated, The people of Watts are not seeing the community growth like in San Pedro. We belong in CD 9, and Marcel, who plainly said, We dont have anything in common with San Pedro.

Also speaking was Maryanne, who asserted, Im proud to be a Watts resident and Im here to tell you that change needs to come. Ive been here many years and I have not seen change. We deserve it. A couple of miles down, they have all the luxuries and support and the school system and the communities when we dont have it here! Commissioners, can you get it right?

The redistricting commission meeting lasted nearly three hours with a large number of people testifying about their viewpoint concerning CD 9. As the meeting concluded, attendees were invited to participate in future meetings via Zoom or by telephone.

The next public hearing is set for Wednesday, September 8, at 6 p.m., and will focus on CD 8. On Saturday, September 11, at 10 a.m., the public hearing will cover all council districts.

People can also submit comments via email at [email protected] or by using the comment form at laccrc2021.org.
Wednesday, September 8, 2021

The Georgia Supreme Court admitted an attorney without examination despite an unfavorable recommendation of its Board of Bar Examiners

Barry Dean Carothers appeals the decision of the Georgia Board of Bar Examiners denying his motion for admission to the State Bar of Georgia on motion without examination. Because we agree with Carothers that the Board erred by concluding that he has not been admitted by examination to the bar of a reciprocal jurisdiction, we reverse the Boards decision.

The peripatetic attorney

Carothers was admitted to the Florida Bar by examination in 1990. He was also later admitted by motion (without examination) to the bars of Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and West Virginia. Then, in February 2020, Carothers took the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) in South Carolina and received a score of 267.1 Based on that examination score and his completion of that states other admission requirements, he was admitted to the South Carolina Bar. Carothers also applied for admission to the Alabama Bar by transferring his score on the same UBE. Because he met Alabamas UBE score requirement and completed the states other admission requirements, he was admitted to the Alabama Bar in January 2021.

Editor's note: That's a heavy dose of annual dues!

The issue is whether an admission based on a transferred UBE score is considered as "with" or "without" examination

The court rejected the Board's various arguments

Part B, Section 6 (a) does not actually mandate that applicants be physically present in Georgia when they take the Georgia bar examination; it says that the exam will be administered in Atlanta or such other location as the Board may designate. (Emphasis added.) In fact, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Board designated the last three Georgia bar examinations to be administered remotely, meaning that applicants could take the exam from anywhere the internet reaches. See, e.g., July Bar Exam to be Remote, https://www.gasupreme.us/july-2021-bar-exam/. So the Boards assertion that Georgia has an inflexible in-state examination requirement for our own bar exam is incorrect.

Neither Carothers nor the Georgia Bar contends that he met the criteria for admission to the Alabama Bar without examination. Instead, he followed the requirements for admission by examination: he took the UBE, which is the bar examination used by Alabama; he achieved a passing score under the Alabama Rules; he timely transferred that score to Alabama; and he successfully completed the other requirements for admission by examination. Thus, under the plain language of the Alabama Rules, Carothers was admitted by examination to the Alabama Bar.

...But the Boards over-reading of these Part B rules is really beside the point, because where to administer the Georgia bar examination and whether to use transferred scores for the Georgia bar examination are rules found in Part B about the Georgia bar examination  an examination that is not at issue in this case, in which Carothers seeks to be admitted to the Georgia Bar under Part C on motion without taking the Georgia bar examination.

Conclusion

As currently formulated, the plain language of the Georgia Rules does not require that every reciprocal jurisdictions standards for admission by examination mirror Georgias. Nor do our rules state or imply that differences, such as allowing the use of certain transferred exam scores, will render another jurisdictions process for admission by examination invalid. In short, the rule in Part C allowing admission to the Georgia Bar on motion credits the examination processes of the jurisdictions with which Georgia has reciprocity, and the Board has no authority to alter or disregard that rule.

As made clear above, Carothers met Alabamas requirements to be admitted by examination to the Alabama Bar, and he thereby fulfilled the requirement in Part C, Section 2 (b) of the Georgia Rules that he be admitted by examination to the bar of a state with which Georgia has reciprocity for purposes of bar admissions. Accordingly, we reverse the Boards decision denying Carotherss motion for admission to the Georgia Bar without examination.

Justice McMillian dissented and is joined by two colleagues

At its essence, the majoritys analysis focuses on the dictionary definition of examination, looks at the Alabama Rules, and concludes that because the UBE falls under the dictionary definition of examination under the Alabama Rules, then Carothers was admitted by examination. The fallacy of this reasoning, however, is that the majority construes the phrase admitted by examination in the context of Alabamas bar examination requirements. Instead, the question should be how Georgia defines admitted by examination in the context of its own Rules. A review of that phrase as used in the Georgia Rules shows that it is a term of art referring to admission by examination akin to the type of examination that Georgia requires.

(Mike Frisch)

https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/legal_profession/2021/09/the-georgia-supreme-court-barry-dean-carothers-appeals-the-decision-of-the-georgia-board-of-bar-examiners-denying-his-motion-1.html
For almost six years, Andrea Habermans burned wallet lay mostly untouched at her parents home in the American state of Wisconsin. It was placed alongside some of her other personal belongings  her burned cellphone, eyeglasses and house keys.

Those few objects were all that remained of a young life that ended when a hijacked airplane struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Haberman was 25 years old and about to be married. She was on a business trip from Chicago. It was her first visit to New York City.

For Habermans family, the belongings she had with her that day are a reminder of their great sadness.

These are not the happy things you want to remember someone by, said her father, Gordon Haberman.

To ease their pain, the family gave the items to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The thousands of personal artifacts tell the story of the lives lost on that day.

Some are shown at the 9/11 museum. Others are shown at other museums around the country.

Each person who makes up part of that tally was an individual who lived a life, said Jan Ramirez. She is the museums chief curator and director of collections.

We knew that families  the people that have lost a loved one that day  were going to need to have a place, have a way, to remember the person that never came home from work, that never came home from a flight, Ramirez added.

Many of those personal items were found in the ruins of what was once the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center. Other items were donated by survivors or by the families of those who died.

A collection of woodworking tools represents Sean Rooney, a vice president at Aon Corp. He died in the South Tower. Woodworking was his hobby.

Rooney called his wife, Beverly Eckert, at their home in Stamford, Connecticut, after being trapped by fire and smoke on the 105th floor. He spent his last minutes alive talking about their life together. He said I love you to his wife as he fought to breathe.

His body was never found.

Beverly died eight years later in a plane crash while traveling to Buffalo, New York, to award a scholarship in the name of her husband. Before she died, she had set aside the woodworking tools.

Robert Chins hobby was softball, a sport he loved. He played for his employer Fiduciary Trust International. After his first hit, his coworkers all signed the ball and gave it to him. Many of those coworkers also died on 9/11. Chins family gave the ball to the museum.

Not all artifacts included in the collection represent someone who died. Some are from those who survived the terrorist attacks.

Linda Raisch-Lopez gave the museum the blood-covered shoes she was wearing that day. She walked down from the 97th floor without shoes to move more quickly, cutting her feet. She later put the shoes back on to run away from the area.

Only a small part of the museums collection of artifacts can be shown at one time; there are simply too many objects. When they are not on display, the artifacts are stored in buildings in New York and New Jersey.

Ramirez called the artifacts palpable pieces of truth. She added that the collection brings purpose to what she does and will continue to do.

Im Caty Weaver.

The Associated Press reported this story. Susan Shand adapted it for Learning English. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

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Words in This Story

wallet  n. a small folding case that holds paper money, credit cards

hijack  v. to take control of (an aircraft) by force

artifact  n. : a simple object that was made or used by people in the past

tally  n. a recorded count of scores, votes

curator  n. a person who is in charge of the things in a museum

hobby  n. :an activity that a person does for pleasure when not working

scholarship  n. an amount of money that is given by a school, an organization, etc., to a student to help pay for the student's education

palpable  adj. obvious or noticeable

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, and visit our Facebook page.


The American space agency NASA says its Mars explorer, or rover, has successfully collected its first Martian rock sample.

The rover, called Perseverance, used a drill attached to its robotic arm to remove a small, circular sample -- also called a core -- from a larger rock on the surface of Mars.

NASA confirmed the successful collection in a statement on Monday. The agency also released pictures of the sample, which it said appears to be about as thick as a writing instrument.

After the drilling was completed, Perseverance took additional pictures of the sample as well as the tube it was kept in. The images are useful to scientists back on Earth who study the sample.

In the final step, Perseverance moved the tube to a storage area inside the rover and hermetically sealed the container. Hermetic sealing is a process that completely closes off the container so that no air can flow in or out.

The Perseverance team shared the news on Twitter. Its official: Ive now captured, sealed, and stored the first core sample ever drilled on another planet, in a quest to return samples to Earth. The tweet added that the sample was the first in a one-of-a-kind Martian rock collection.

It was the second collection attempt for Perseverance. The first one happened about a month ago. In that try, NASA confirmed that the rover had successfully drilled into another rock at a different site on the Mars surface.

But during the collection attempt, images showed that the sample tube was empty. NASA engineers later reported that the rock the rover drilled into must not have been strong enough to produce a core sample. So, the drilling operation only produced dust that could not be collected.

The latest core sample -- and all others collected from now on  will be stored on Mars until they can be picked up during future missions to the Red Planet and brought to Earth. NASA says its Mars Sample Return mission -- to be carried out jointly with the European Space Agency -- could have the rock samples back to Earth sometime in the 2030s.

NASA science officer Thomas Zurbuchen called the successful collection a truly historic moment. The agencys leader, Bill Nelson, also praised the effort and said, I cant wait to see the incredible discoveries produced by Perseverance and our team.

Perseverance landed in February at Jezero Crater, an area scientists believe to be the remains of an ancient river system. The high-tech rover is on a mission to search for signs of ancient microbial life on Mars.

Perseverance has been assisted in some efforts by a small experimental helicopter called Ingenuity. The helicopter made history in April by becoming the first aircraft to perform a powered, controlled flight on another planet. So far, Ingenuity has performed above expectations, completing 11 flight tests and helping to identify areas for Perseverance to explore.

Ken Farley is a project scientist on the Perseverance team. He said the latest collection effort marks the beginning of many more to come for the rover, which has 43 sample tubes to fill.

There is a lot of Jezero Crater left to explore, and we will continue our journey in the months and years ahead, Farley said in a statement. When we get these samples back to Earth, they are going to tell us a great deal about some of the earliest chapters in the evolution of Mars, he added.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from NASA, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. Caty Weaver was the editor.

We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments section, and visit our Facebook page.

Quiz - NASAs Perseverance Rover Collects First Martian Rock Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

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Words in This Story

sample  n. a small amount of something that gives you information about the thing it was taken from

drill  n. a tool or machine used for making holes in a hard substance

quest  n. an attempt to get something of do something difficult

mission  n. an important project or trip, especially involving space travel

incredible  adj. unbelievable, exciting or large

journey  n. the act of traveling from one place to another

chapter  n. a period of time when something happens

evolution  n. the way in which things gradually develop and change over millions of years


The United States says it is considering the Talibans announcement of a caretaker government in Afghanistan, saying it believes the Afghan people should have an inclusive government.

A State Department spokesperson told VOA Tuesday, We will continue to hold the Taliban to their commitments to allow safe passage for foreign nationals and Afghans with travel documents.

The statement repeated the U.S. desire that the Taliban ensure that Afghan soil is not used to threaten any other countries. The U.S. also expects the Taliban to allow humanitarian aid for the Afghan people. The world is watching closely, the statement said.

The Taliban announced Tuesday a caretaker Islamic government, saying it will be headed by Mullah Hasan Akhund. He worked closely with the Islamist movements late founder Mullah Omar.

The announcement came a day after the Taliban said they had won control over the northern province of Panjshir. The province was the only area in Afghanistan that used armed resistance against the Taliban.

Taliban chief spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said that all the appointments were temporary. He added that the heads of various other ministries will be appointed soon.

Akhund comes from the southern Afghan area of Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban. He led a group that often attacked the United States and allied forces during 20 years of war.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar is head of the groups political office. He will serve as the deputy prime minister in the caretaker government. The interior minister will be Sirajuddin Haqqani, head of the Haqqani network. The U.S. has named the Haqqani network as an international terrorist organization, offering a $10 million reward for information that leads to Haqqanis arrest. He is accused of directing deadly attacks against American and allied forces in Afghanistan.

Amir Khan Muttaqi will be the foreign minister and Mohammad Yaqoob, son of Mullah Mohammad Omar, will be the acting defense minister, Mujahid added.

Ahmadullah Wasiq is a senior member of the Taliban information ministry. He told reporters that the rarely-seen Taliban chief Hibatullah Akhundzada will be the amir (supreme leader) of the government, or the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

The Taliban have since told Afghans and foreign countries that they will appoint an inclusive government in the country. They say they will not bring back the severe Islamist rule of the 1990s. That government had a violent justice system and banned women and girls from public life. So far, the caretaker government is made up of all-male, Taliban members.

Recognition "A long way off"

On Monday, a reporter asked U.S. President Joe Biden whether his administration would recognize the Taliban.

No. Thats a long way off, Biden said.

On Tuesday, White House press secretary Jen Psaki repeated that there was no hurry to recognize the Taliban government.

It is really going to be dependent on what steps the Taliban takes. They will be watching, the United States included, they will be watching whether they allow for American citizens and citizens of other countries to depart, whether they allow individuals who want to leave the country to leave  how they treat women and girls around the country.

The U.S. and the international community have urged the Taliban to ensure protection of human rights and cut ties with al-Qaida terrorists. They are also demanding representation of all Afghan ethnic groups in the government if it wants to remain part of the international community.

China hopes order will be restored

Wang Wenbin is Chinas Foreign Ministry spokesperson. He said the formation of the Taliban government is important because it will restore social and economic order as soon as possible.

We hope Afghanistan will establish a broadly based and inclusive political structure, and follow moderate domestic and foreign policies while opposing terrorist forces and living on friendly terms with other countries, Wang added.

The United Nations reacted to the Talibans announcement by saying only a negotiated and inclusive settlement will bring long-lasting peace to Afghanistan.

U.N. spokesperson Farhan Haq said in New York that the U.N. is still working toward a peaceful solution. The U.N. wants to help promote the human rights of all Afghans, notably women and girls, promote sustainable development in line with agenda 2030, and provide lifesaving humanitarian assistance and critical support to civilians in need.

Michael Kugelman is deputy Asia program director at the Wilson Center. He noted that Taliban leaders have been appointed to all important positions. Its not at all inclusive, and thats no surprise, Kugelman said in social media.

At least 10 people in the 33-member Taliban Cabinet announced Tuesday were part of the groups team that negotiated the February 2020 peace agreement with the U.S. That led to all foreign forces leaving after nearly 20 years of war in Afghanistan.

Im Jill Robbins.

Ayaz Gul wrote this story for VOA News. Jill Robbins adapted it for Learning English. Susan Shand was the editor.

________________________________________________

Words in This Story

commitment  n. a promise to do or give something

ensure  v. to make (something) sure, certain, or safe

promote  v. to help (something) happen, develop, or increase

sustainable  adj. able to last or continue for a long time

What do you think of the Talibans plans for taking on government positions? We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section.
LONDON (AP)  The leader of Northern Irelands largest British unionist party heightened post-Brexit political tensions on Thursday, saying the U.K.s divorce deal with the European Union could collapse the Belfast government and trigger a new era of violence and instability.

Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson threatened to pull his party out of the power-sharing administration if the rules for Northern Ireland trade agreed by the U.K. and the EU last year are not fundamentally changed within weeks.

In a speech in Belfast, he said the agreement known as the Northern Ireland Protocol fundamentally undermines  the economic integrity of the United Kingdom and Northern Irelands position in it.

We are totally opposed to the protocol as it presently exists, Donaldson said.

He said that the problems must be resolved in weeks and not months or years, and said DUP ministers would quit Northern Irelands Protestant-Catholic power-sharing administration rather than implement the deal in its present form. That would effectively collapse the government, which is run by the DUP and Irish nationalist party Sinn Fein.

He also said DUP ministers would boycott regular meetings with politicians in Ireland as a protest against the new rules.
If Reclaim Idaho was looking for a pair of foils to help promote its education funding initiative, the group could hardly do any better than the Republicans heading up education committees in the House and Senate.
A former Cal Poly Police officer and a forensic serologist testified in court Wednesday during the preliminary hearing for Paul and Ruben Flores, who are charged in the disappearance of former student Kristin Smart in 1996.

Angela Butler, a forensic DNA examiner with the Serological Research Institute in Richmond, took the stand to provide testimony about soil samples allegedly containing blood that were taken from Ruben Flores Arroyo Grande home in the 700 block of White Court. She was followed by San Luis Obispo Police Lt. Robert Cudworth, who recalled his 1996 interview with Paul Flores while working as an officer for Cal Poly Police.

Additionally, James Camp, a District Attorneys Office investigator, testified about Smarts personal items that police seized from her dorm room days after she was reported missing on May 25, 1996.

Paul Flores was last seen with Smart near the intersection of Perimeter Road and Grande Avenue at about 2 a.m., only steps from their dorms, after walking back from an off-campus party on Crandall Way, according to Cheryl Manzer, an early witness in the hearing who testified walking with the two before splitting off.

After that, Smart was never seen again. Her body has not been found and she was declared legally dead in 2002.

Paul Flores, 44, of San Pedro is charged with Smarts murder and his 80-year-old father, Ruben Flores, is charged with accessory to murder after the fact and is accused of burying her under the deck of his Arroyo Grande home.

Both men were arrested and charged in April following multiple search warrants on their properties, including one in March. They have pleaded not guilty.

Before testimony, however, Superior Court Judge Craig van Rooyen denied a subpoena filed by Bob Sanger, Paul Flores attorney, to question Orcutt podcaster Chris Lambert on the stand.

Sanger accused Lambert of influencing at least two witnesses who previously testified in the case and added that Lamberts claim to Californias shield law, which protects journalists from being forced to testify about their sources, cant supersede his clients right to fair trial.

Lambert, who was represented by attorney Diana Palacios, produces the Your Own Backyard podcast, which has been downloaded millions of times and is credited for renewing public interest in the case.

If hed allow Lambert to testify, it would create a chilling effect that could cause sources to not speak with journalists and any reporter that has an interaction with a witness could be called to testify, van Rooyen said.

After van Rooyens ruling, Butler testified about her findings from tests on soil samples taken from an alleged burial site located underneath the deck of the Arroyo Grande residence during searches executed by the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office on March 15 and 16.

Two tests were performed, including an orthotolidine test, a presumptive test, and a Seratec HemDirect test, which is a confirmatory test that identifies hemoglobin in human blood, according to Butler.

She added the HemDirect test also showed positive results with blood higher primates, such as chimpanzees or gorillas, and from ferrets, which are related to weasels.

Harold Mesick, who represents Ruben Flores, asked Butler if the samples could also show blood from a weasel species native to San Luis Obispo County and Butler testified that it was possible.

On cross-examination from Sanger, Butler admitted she was not aware that national forensic standards precluded testimony on tests that presume a zero percent error rate.

The FBI has made it clear that you cant say that, Sanger said. The world is not certain.

In addition, Butler testified that she was not able to extract DNA from the samples, although indicated that tests for mitochondrial DNA  which show a connection to the mother  are currently being analyzed by her lab.

Later, Cudworth took the stand and recalled interviewing Crystal Calvin, Smarts roommate who reported her missing, and visiting their Muir Hall dorm room, where Smarts belongings  including her identification, clothing and toiletries  were still on the bed.

He testified Detective Lawrence Mike Kennedy, his colleague at Cal Poly Police, collected some of Smarts personal items from her room and turned them over to the Sheriffs Office.

During Camps testimony, Deputy District Attorney Christopher Peuvrelle displayed some of the items seized from Smarts room, including a Stenner Glen ID with her picture and a credit card that expired in August 1996.

Cudworth remembered his interview with Paul Flores that occurred on May 28 1996, three days after Smart disappeared.

During the interview, which lasted approximately 15 minutes and took place at the campus store, Cudworth said Flores told him he left an intoxicated Smart to walk back to her Muir Hall dorm by herself while he walked next door to his Santa Lucia Hall dorm room.

Upon cross-examination from Sanger, Cudworth said he did not notice Paul Flores with a black eye or scrapes on his knees during the interview.

The preliminary hearing continues at 9 a.m. on Thursday in Superior Court.
Dr. Lynn Silver is a pediatrician and director of Getting it Right from the Start  Advancing Public Health & Equity in Cannabis Policy, and Senior Advisor at the Public Health Institute, lsilver@phi.org.
Im a mom, a cancer survivor, and someone whos had to clip coupons to pay the bills every month, Kleefisch said in the video. Im on your side, because Ive walked in your shoes.  I have the plan and the backbone to get Wisconsin back up on her feet.

Evers, 69, announced his plans to seek reelection in June.

Were up against another decade of rigged maps. Were up against stripping protections for preexisting conditions and a womans right to choose, Evers said during the Democratic Party of Wisconsins virtual convention in June. Were up against people who openly reject science and refuse to acknowledge climate change. Were up against attacks on democracy itself, and a party doing everything they can to make voting more difficult.

Democratic Party of Wisconsin chairman Ben Wikler criticized Kleefisch as "too extreme for Wisconsin."

"During her tenure as lieutenant governor, Kleefisch championed far-right policies that hurt Wisconsinites and eviscerated protections for workers," Wikler said in a statement. "The Democratic Party of Wisconsin is energized and ready to re-elect Gov. Evers next year  and send the last of Scott Walkers acolytes packing."

Kleefisch is the first prominent Republican candidate to formally announce a gubernatorial campaign. Rep. John Macco, R-Ledgeview, also filed papers to run for governor this month. Other potential candidates include lobbyist and former Tommy Thompson aide Bill McCoshen and Marine veteran and former U.S. Senate candidate Kevin Nicholson.

Share your opinion on this topic by sending a letter to the editor to tctvoice@madison.com. Include your full name, hometown and phone number. Your name and town will be published. The phone number is for verification purposes only. Please keep your letter to 250 words or less.
Let them all die.

The statement shocked me, as it was said  or rather spit out  by one of the sweetest, most sympathetic people I know. And she isnt alone. After three Zoom gatherings last week  my renewed social strategy with infections rising  I heard similar venom from the most unlikely sources.

This all should have been over by now.

This grandmother had just canceled a long-awaited family gathering because a relative was exposed to COVID. Others have postponed events, dinners, receptions, some requiring family members to get tested before reunions. Last year, talking about these precautions elicited sadness. This year, these folks are pissed.

Let me be clear who Im quoting. One of the perks of semi-retirement is paring down my associations to those I truly like and admire. I no longer keep company with people who raise my blood pressure. My three groups are populated with mostly women, all kind and generous, creative and well-spoken, mostly religious or spiritual.
Abortion care is basic health care that approximately one in four American women will need. While wealthy people will likely continue to be able to obtain safe abortion care, these laws will destroy access for many vulnerable and marginalized people who are low income, young, trans/non-binary, undocumented, and are disproportionately women of color.

Reproductive rights need legislative protection. State Rep. Lisa Subeck and I are working to pass Senate Bill 75, the Abortion Rights Preservation Act, here in Wisconsin, but, predictably, Republican leaders have refused to act on it or give it a hearing. Federally, we need to end the filibuster, expand the Supreme Court and federal judiciary, and pass federal legislation to codify Roe v. Wade.

This is an all hands on deck moment for human rights and gender equality. I ask you to join me in the fight for reproductive justice. Contact your state and federal legislators, demand action to defend reproductive freedom, and ask friends represented by GOP legislators to do the same. If you feel comfortable, share your own stories about why choice matters to you. Every one of us deserves to make our own decisions about our health, our bodies, and our lives  not have them made for us by a few strangers in black robes.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  Arkansas is easing rules for its rental relief program to prioritize the funds for tenants at immediate risk of being evicted after little of the state's share of the federal money has been spent so far.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Wednesday announced the changes to the Arkansas Rent Relief Program after asking the state Department of Human Services to review its processes surrounding the program.

Arkansas set aside $173 million in federal funds for the program for people who have lost jobs or are struggling financially because of the pandemic. So far, though, only $9.8 million in assistance has been paid out.

DHS said nearly 2,800 applicants are at immediate risk of eviction and 51 percent of those will be prioritized under the changes. The remainder have been paid or are expected to be paid by next week.

The other changes will also allow funds to be paid to eligible tenant applicants if a landlord does not submit the required information within 10 days. DHS said the contractor handling the program is also adding 70 staffers to handle calls and process cases, and a new case management team has been added to focus on previously submitted applications where the landlord did not submit the required information.
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Maniaci said the first Saturday of the month at Woofs is country night, and the night we were in, he realized later the music was too loud.

The seven outdoor tables at DVino were spaced well, except for ours where there was a party of two so close we could hear every word they said. They also brought their dog, as did a Woofs customer on the other side of us. The dogs were generally well behaved, but barked when other dogs went by.

My friends were unconcerned with the chaos around us. Downtowns hopping again, one of them said.

The restaurant was originally going to be called Dino-Vino until Maniaci said he got a letter from a lawyer for Eno Vino in the AC Hotel nearby telling him if he used that name they would sue.

DVino, which means of wine, had its already delayed opening on March 3, 2020, and closed temporarily 10 days later due to the pandemic.

Maniaci said he started doing takeout a week after that, and ran the operation by himself until he was able to expand his outdoor dining under the citys Streatery program that summer.
How to attend the final public scoping meeting

To attend the second public scoping meeting from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, you must register on the BLM project website page.

From the home page, eplanning.blm.gov, type in Lava Ridge Wind Project. Click on the project page and scroll down until "Register for a Public Scoping Meeting". Click on the pre-registration link and fill out the required information. A personalized link will be sent to your email.
Lopez Obrador has faced criticism in recent weeks over images of Mexican immigration agents and National Guard troops having sometimes violent clashes with migrants in the southern state of Chiapas. The migration pressure in southern Mexico as well as at the U.S.-Mexico border led Lopez Obrador to renew his effort to persuade the United States to commit funding to social projects he has implemented in southern Mexico that he says could be expanded to Central America.

He said he sent a letter this week to Biden stressing that people participating in the programs should also be offered work visas in the United States, because Biden will need the labor force to carry out his ambitious infrastructure plan.

Todays meeting is very important so that we initiate a new stage, because there has not been attention to the population that is obligated to migrate, Lopez Obrador said at his daily news conference. There hasnt been in years. Nothing. Everything is contain. Everything is coercion. And that is not how social problems are resolved.

The U.S. side was represented by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, USAID Administrator Samantha Power and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar.
TVN has been a jewel in the crown of Polish democracy for decades, he said.

Senators in the 100-seat body voted 53-37 against the bill, with three abstentions. When it returns to the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, the vote on the bill will also be a test of whether the ruling party still has a legislative majority following some defections in the governing coalition.

TVN also faces a separate challenge: A refusal to date by the broadcast authority to renew the license for TVN24, the network's all-news station, which expires later this month.

Kasia Kieli, Discoverys president and managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said that despite the Senate's vote the company is still concerned about the future of TVN and independent media in Poland as the bill can still be passed by the Sejm and the license for our news channel TVN24 is still not renewed.

Duda, though an ally of Law and Justice, last month called the bill a controversial solution that is incomprehensible" to the United States, citing the U.S. attitude toward the protection of property and freedom of speech.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last month that the U.S. was deeply troubled by the proposed legislation.

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

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Idahos lack of behavioral assistance has led to families and individuals seeking out the judicial system as their only means for assistance. All too often in Idaho a person with behavioral health challenges ends up arrested or in jail, and thats their first interaction with the behavioral health system. We have a set of recommendations designed to involve people who need care earlier and minimize the involvement of the criminal justice system. Our goal is to make it easy for folks to access the right care when they need it during the whole spectrum of their treatment and recovery process.

We also have a series of recommendations on recovery and resiliency. Its tragic for a child to be traumatized growing up, and we need to avoid the lifelong effects that can follow. We will build programs to promote longterm resiliency. Recovering from addiction or a mental health disease is often a lifelong process. We know our regional recovery community centers are critical components, which is why we must improve the support they receive and also identify other services we may be missing.

While there is still much work to be done to ensure this plan becomes a reality, it is a giant step forward for our state. Each year, more and more Idahoans are seeking behavioral health services for a myriad of reasons. But there are even more who dont seek help.
Nearly three dozen people took almost four hours Wednesday night to tell the Commission on Local Governments what they think about Martinsvilles planned reversion into a town in Henry County, and their message was clear:

We dont want reversion, but if we have no choice, then delay it as long as you can.

Current and former elected officials and  for the first time in this years-long process  candidates, educators, ministers and average private citizens strode to the microphone at New College Institute and told the room what was on their minds.

Former Martinsville Mayor Gene Teague was the first to speak and recounted the times reversion had been a recurring topic during his more than two decades on City Council. He said it proved one thing: The inability of this community to work something out, outside of reversion.

Hats off to them for negotiating an agreement, Teague said. Dragging this out only adds to the stress in an already stressed community.

But two candidates for seats on the Henry County Board of Supervisors offered differing views.
You can rest assured that the vaccine works tremendously well to keep you from having to go to the hospital, but you can spread it to others even if you dont know you have it. Thats why it behooves us to mask when were indoors and avoid crowds.
LONDON (AP)  Britain and France traded barbs Thursday over what to do about a growing number of migrants trying to cross the English Channel in small boats.

After the British government briefed British newspapers that U.K. Border Force vessels could intercept boats and send them back to French waters, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said France would not accept any practice contrary to the law of the sea.

Migrants have long used northern France as a launching point to reach Britain, either by stowing away in trucks or on ferries, or  increasingly since the coronavirus pandemic disrupted international travel  in dinghies and other small boats organized by smugglers. The British and French governments have worked for years to stop the journeys, without much success.

More than 14,000 people have made the crossing this year, according to a count by Britains Press Association news agency. In 2020, about 8,500 people made the journey, and several died in the attempt.

Earlier this year, Britain agreed to give France 54 million pounds ($74 million) to help fund a doubling of the number of police patrolling French beaches.
With the recent increase of positive cases and the spread of the delta variant, city of Marion officials said they are concerned about the health and safety of local residents. Little said attending the funeral service for firefighter Garrett Presnell, who died recently of COVID-19 at the age of 28, smacks you in the face of the reality of COVID.

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On Friday, Sept. 3, McDowell County reported 445 more positive cases and three more deaths in the span of just one week.

The Mountain Gateway Museum & Heritage Center and the Old Fort Ruritan Club have canceled their combined Octoberfest-Pioneer Day festival set for Saturday, Oct. 2 on the museums grounds in Old Fort, according to a news release.

Likewise, the museums Conservation Assistance Day, featuring artifact conservators from the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh and planned as part of the festival, has been canceled but will be rescheduled for a later date.

The museum plans to host its Pioneer Day festival next spring on Saturday, April 30, 2022, if the coronavirus has abated by then. The Old Fort Ruritan Club plans to resume its long-running Octoberfest event in the fall of 2022.
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

In June 2021, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) granted accelerated approval for aducanumab to treat patients with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. The two phase-3 clinical trials of aducanumab on which the drug's approval was based showed increased risk of certain adverse vascular events. Though the clinical trials excluded participants based on advanced age, certain chronic diseases and use of anti-clotting medications, FDA approval was granted without contraindications or precautions for use of the drug in these patient populations.

In a research letter in JAMA, physician-researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) examined medical claims for Medicare enrollees with a diagnosis of either cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, or Alzheimer's disease-related disorders. The team found that the vast majority of these patients had one or more conditions that would have excluded them from the aducanumab clinical trials, including cardiovascular disease, prior stroke, use of blood thinners, and age over 85 years.

"Our findings are concerning given the broad FDA labeling for aducanumab," said corresponding author Timothy S. Anderson, MD, MAS, a clinician investigator and assistant professor medicine in the Division of General Medicine at BIDMC. "The public conversation on aducanumab has focused on limited benefit and high costs, it is equally important to consider that the majority of patients with Alzheimer's disease are likely to face higher risks of adverse events than the patients studied in the trials."

Analyzing data from more than 27 million Medicare beneficiaries, Anderson and colleagues found that more than 92 percent of patients with Alzheimer's disease related dementia, 91 percent of patients with Alzheimer's disease and 85 percent of patients with cognitive impairment met at least one of the aducanumab trial exclusion criterion. More than 77 percent of patients with Alzheimer's disease related dementia met multiple exclusion criteria, as did majorities of patients with the other diagnoses.

"Clinical trials of aducanumab studied relatively healthy participants who do not reflect the majority of older adults with dementia in the U.S.," Anderson said. "As a result, Medicare should consider restricting coverage for aducanumab to patients who meet the trial eligibility criteria, and additional clinical trials of the high-risk groups excluded from the prior trials should be required, including rigorous study of adverse events, prior to broadening coverage."

More information: Timothy S. Anderson et al, Representativeness of Participants Eligible to Be Enrolled in Clinical Trials of Aducanumab for Alzheimer Disease Compared With Medicare Beneficiaries With Alzheimer Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment, JAMA (2021). Journal information: Journal of the American Medical Association Timothy S. Anderson et al, Representativeness of Participants Eligible to Be Enrolled in Clinical Trials of Aducanumab for Alzheimer Disease Compared With Medicare Beneficiaries With Alzheimer Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jama.2021.15286
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A biomarker in the brain predicts future cognitive decline in patients with the language form of Alzheimer's disease (AD), reports a new Northwestern Medicine study.

Northwestern Medicine scientists discovered the buildup of tau protein in the brain predicts the amount of future cognitive decline over one year in individuals with AD. The study measured used a newer type of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging that shows the location of toxic tau protein in the brain.

"Our new research shows tau PET imaging biomarkers can predict future decline in individuals with primary progressive aphasia due to AD," said senior study author Emily Rogalski, associate director of Northwestern's Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease. "These tau-based biomarkers may help predict the pace of progression of the disease and be important for early detection. They may eventually help us treat AD before we see symptoms."

The higher the level of the bad form of tau in the brain, the worse a person's cognitive performance, the study showed. The more tau protein a person had in a specific region of their brain, the more likely they were to have worse cognition a year later. The study also found the higher the level of tau, the more atrophy was occurring across the brain.

The study was published Sept. 8 in Alzheimer's and Dementia.

Early diagnosis of AD is important because the Food & Drug Administration recently approved Biogen's Aduhelm (aducanumab) to treat patients in the disease's mild stages, and other drugs are in the development pipeline.

"The presence and level of these biomarkers might give us a picture of how aggressive the disease is going to be, providing important markers necessary for precision-medicine interventions," said lead author Adam Martersteck. He conducted the research as a neuroscience graduate student at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and now is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of California Berkeley.

Credit: Northwestern University

The study was among the first to show the amount of tau pathology in the brain predicts subsequent cognitive decline over time.

The individuals in the study had Progressive Primary Aphasia (PPA), which is often caused by an early-onset form of AD. In PPA, the parts of the brain that control language and speech degenerate.

"It's important to show that AD in primary progressive aphasia is similar to the more common late-onset AD that causes memory problems, so that participants with PPA can be included in clinical trials and offered all the same opportunities," Martersteck said.

The finding about predictive decline from tau pathology is also applicable to more common forms of AD in which memory loss is the primary symptom. One theory is that toxic forms of AD accumulate and then trigger events resulting in brain cell degeneration. This research supports this theory.

Participants from around the country were seen locally or flown to Chicago for MRI, tau PET imaging and cognitive testing at Northwestern's Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease. The 19 participants all had been diagnosed with PPA.

As a growing proportion of Americans age, the prevalence of AD is expected to rise. An estimated 50 million people worldwide and 6 million in the U.S. have AD, with those numbers expected to triple in the next 30 years.

In the study, scientists measured toxic tau at baseline and tested participants on their ability to name objects. Participants returned a year later and were tested again on their ability to name objects. The more tau they had in the left anterior temporal lobe on PET imaging, the more likely they were to have worse cognition and a decline in their naming.

"The next steps for the research are to determine if these measurements are reliable at the individual level to guide prognosis and intervention targets," Rogalski said. "We know some individuals with PPA progress more rapidly than others, but factors driving fast versus slow progression have been difficult to ascertain. Reliable biomarkers are one key to solving this conundrum."

Explore further Memory may be preserved in condition with brain changes similar to Alzheimer's disease

More information: Adam Martersteck et al, Relationships among tau burden, atrophy, age, and naming in the aphasic variant of Alzheimer's disease, Alzheimer's & Dementia (2021). Adam Martersteck et al, Relationships among tau burden, atrophy, age, and naming in the aphasic variant of Alzheimer's disease,(2021). DOI: 10.1002/alz.12445
Professor Farrukh Abbas Chaudhry (at the back) and his research group has taken an important first step towards finding a cure for liver encephalopathy, or at the very least a treatment for its symptoms. Up front lead author El Hassan Hamdani, who is now working at OsloMet, in the middle Marivi Moen. Credit: El Hassan Hamdani

Liver encephalopathy is one of the diseases that claims most lives worldwide. A Norwegian study has revealed that the disease disturbs vital processes in the brain.

Chronic liver damage/cirrhosis is the 12th most common cause of death in the United States and in over half of the cases, those affected suffer from liver encephalopathy. In the EU, the proportion of people who contract liver encephalopathy is equivalent to the number who die due to diabetes and traffic accidents. In spite of this, little is heard about this disease.

Liver encephalopathy is first triggered by damage to the liver due to for example alcohol abuse or infections generating inflammation of the liver (hepatitis). This leads to a number of processes in the body that cause a swelling of the brain. In the end, the patient goes into a coma, with death as a possible outcome.

Development of a possible cure for liver encephalopathy

Scientists wanted to find out why brain functions are weakened and why the brain swells in acute liver encephalopathy in order to find a cure for this serious disease, or at the very least a treatment for its symptoms.

Professor Farrukh Abbas Chaudhry explains what happens before the brain begins to swell. He works at the Department of Molecular Medicine at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo.

"The liver helps us to break down many different toxins in the body. We eat a lot of proteins that are burned in the body, leaving the waste product ammonia. We also have beneficial bacteria in the gut that excrete ammoniabut ammonia is a toxic substance for the body. We therefore depend on the liver to convert the ammonia to urea, which is then excreted via the kidneys as a main component of urine," explains the professor.

Ammonia enters the bloodstream

If the liver fails due to alcohol misuse or hepatitis, ammonia can accumulate in the bloodstream and eventually end up in the brain. "When this happens, patients become confused and the brain becomes swollen. Patients can change personality and become irritable and aggressive. After a while, they may become lethargic and drowsy and go into a coma. The swelling increases pressure in the skull and compresses the brain and the patient can die," says Chaudhry.

Nerve cells fail to produce enough neurotransmitters

Professor Chaudhry adds that "we already knew that ammonia was a key cause of disturbances in brain functions and swelling of the brain, but not why and how this happens." He and his fellow researchers therefore used a multidisciplinary approach to find out what happens to two types of cells in the brain: nerve cells and glial cells.

Nerve cells communicate with one another by means of substances called neurotransmitters, which are released from one cell in order to activate or inhibit another. The second cell can for example be given a signal to generate electric signals, change its properties or produce proteins.

Glial cells surround nerve cells and help them to function well by providing them with raw material they use to make neurotransmitters.

Cannot send messages to other cells

As part of the project, the researchers carried out experiments on mice. "The amino acid glutamine is normally formed in glial cells and transported to nerve cells in order to produce the two most important stimulating and inhibiting neurotransmitters (i.e. signaling substances) in the brain. We discovered that ammonia inhibits the transport of glutamine between glial cells and nerve cells. When this transport is disturbed, the nerve cells do not generate as much neurotransmitter as they should and cannot therefore send messages to other cells in the normal way. At the same time, this lack of transport leads to a build-up of glutamine and ammonia in the glial cells. This attracts water so that glial cells swell resulting in increased pressure in glial cells and ultimately in the brain."

The professor says that he was surprised that their findings were so clear-cut: that it is only glutamine transporting proteins in the glial cells that are affected and not the nerve cells. This causes the failure in nerve cell signals and the swelling of the brain that are both key symptoms of liver encephalopathy.

Stop drinking alcohol

For patients who fall ill due to alcohol abuse, it can help to stop drinking. "Up to a certain point, we can save the liver and reverse the damage caused. But eventually, this is no longer possible and the patient will then need a liver transplant. Since liver encephalopathy can also be caused by infectious hepatitis, it is important to prevent infection by means of vaccines. Drug addiction sufferers and people living in the global South who are particularly prone to various forms of infections should be vaccinated against hepatitis," says Chaudhry.

Explore further New glial cells discovered in the brain: Implications for brain repair

More information: El Hassan Hamdani et al, Perturbation of astroglial Slc38 glutamine transporters by NH 4 + contributes to neurophysiologic manifestations in acute liver failure, The FASEB Journal (2021). Journal information: FASEB Journal El Hassan Hamdani et al, Perturbation of astroglial Slc38 glutamine transporters by NH 4 + contributes to neurophysiologic manifestations in acute liver failure,(2021). DOI: 10.1096/fj.202001712rr
Table 1. Socio-demographic characteristics of the study participants, Debre Berhan town, Amahra region, Ethiopia, 2020. Credit: DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255613

Chichi Okafor, a 30-year-old Nigerian woman, unexpectedly became pregnant again before her daughter turned six months old.

Although Okafor knew about using condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancies, she felt powerless.

"My husband does not like it, so we resorted to the withdrawal method," Okafor says. "I am three months pregnant. It has been hell juggling to take care of my daughter and dealing with the new pregnancy."

The withdrawal method is an old approach for preventing pregnancies by attempting to ensure that ejaculation occurs outside of a woman's genitals.

Okafor's story is an example of how failure to use contraceptives, coupled with short durations of breastfeedingwhich can be effective for birth controlis fueling short birth spacing in Sub-Sharan Africa, says Kehabtimer Shiferaw Kotiso, a lecturer at the College of Health Sciences and Medicine at Wolaita Sodo University, in Ethiopia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends waiting at least two years after a live birth and six months after miscarriage or induced termination before having another pregnancy.

But in a study published in PLOS ONE last month involving 496 pregnant women in Northern Ethiopia, 205 fell pregnant in less than 24 months after live birth, with 24 participants getting pregnant less than 12 months after live birth.

According to the study, 196 participants did not use modern contraceptives before their current pregnancy. It found that 108 participants had an unintended pregnancy, with 49 of them breastfeeding their first child for less than 12 months.

Kehabtimer, a co-author of the study, says that in a similar study conducted on 340 women in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, 224 out of 340 pregnant women had short birth spaces.

Kehabtimer explains that short birth space leads to worse child health outcomes, including low birth weight, stillbirth, intellectual disability and developmental delay.

"The use of modern contraceptives and optimal breastfeeding can help to reduce the adverse effect of short birth spacing on maternal and infant health outcomes," Kehabtimer adds.

He is calling on the African government to embark on sensitisation campaigns as many African women remain unaware of the benefit of modern contraceptives.

"Stakeholders should find the root causes of why most women who are aware of family planning are not taking up a method and address them," he tellsSciDev.Net.

A 2020 study of eight countries in Sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe found significantly shorter birth spacing in Western and Central Africa compared with East and Southern African countries. Chad and the Democratic Republic of Congo had the highest prevalence of short spacingabout 30 percent and 27 percent respectively.

"Women who are educated are more likely to favor [a] long birth interval compared to those who are uneducated," explains the study published in the journal Medicine. "This is not surprising given that educated women are more knowledgeable about contraceptives compared to uneducated women, which will help them to avoid unplanned pregnancy."

Duduyemi Adeola, state program coordinator for The Challenge Initiative, in Lagos, tellsSciDev.Netthat there should be a continuous push for integration of family planning across all maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, plus nutrition services at the primary health care level, and greater collaboration with the private health sector.

"Behavioral [change] communication activities to address myths and misconceptions about contraceptives, improving the accessibility and coverage of contraceptive use and involvement of men, religious and community leaders in family planning programs are essential strategies to be considered to avert short birth spaces in Africa,"Adeola says.

Explore further Oral contraceptive use not associated with increased birth defects risk

More information: Hana Mamo et al, Prevalence of short interpregnancy interval and its associated factors among pregnant women in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia, PLOS ONE (2021). Journal information: PLoS ONE Hana Mamo et al, Prevalence of short interpregnancy interval and its associated factors among pregnant women in Debre Berhan town, Ethiopia,(2021). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255613

Provided by SciDev.Net
School children trying on new eyeglasses they received through the Vision for Baltimore program. Credit: Johns Hopkins University

Students who received eyeglasses through a school-based program scored higher on reading and math tests, Johns Hopkins researchers from the Wilmer Eye Institute and School of Education found in the largest clinical study of the impact of glasses on education ever conducted in the United States. The students who struggled the most academically showed the greatest improvement.

The study, with implications for the millions of children who suffer from vision impairment but lack access to pediatric eye care, is published today by JAMA Ophthalmology.

"We rigorously demonstrated that giving kids the glasses they need helps them succeed in school," said senior author Megan Collins, a pediatric ophthalmologist at the Wilmer Eye Institute and co-director of the Johns Hopkins Consortium for School-Based Health Solutions. "This collaborative project with Johns Hopkins, Baltimore City and its partners has major implications for advancing health and educational equity all across the country."

The team studied students who received eye examinations and glasses through the Vision for Baltimore program, an effort launched in 2016 after Johns Hopkins researchers identified an acute need for vision care among the city's public school students: as many as 15,000 of the city's 60,000 pre-K through 8th-grade students likely needed glasses though many didn't know it or have the means to get them.

Vision for Baltimore, which is beginning its sixth year, is operated and funded in partnership with the Johns Hopkins schools of Education and Medicine, Baltimore City Public Schools, the Baltimore City Health Department, eyewear brand Warby Parker, and national nonprofit Vision To Learn. The Baltimore health department conducts screenings, Vision To Learn performs eye exams and Warby Parker donates the glasses. In addition to providing more than $1 million in support, Johns Hopkins works closely with the program team to provide technical assistance.

Kids who received eyeglasses through the Vision for Baltimore program attend a school event. Credit: Johns Hopkins University

In five years Vision for Baltimore has tested the vision of more than 64,000 students and distributed more than 8,000 pairs of glasses. The Johns Hopkins study is the most robust work to date evaluating whether having glasses affects a child's performance in school.

The three-year randomized clinical trial, conducted from 2016 to 2019, analyzed the performance of 2,304 students in grades 3 to 7 who received screenings, eye examinations and eyeglasses from Vision for Baltimore. The team looked at their scores on standardized reading and math tests, measuring both 1-year and 2-year impact.

Reading scores increased significantly after one year for students who got glasses, compared to students who got glasses later. There was also significant improvement in math for students in elementary grades.

Researchers found particularly striking improvements for girls, special education students, and students who had been among the lowest performing.

"The glasses offered the biggest benefit to the very kids who needed it the mostthe ones who were really struggling in school," Collins said.

2019 video making Vision for Baltimore program during World Sight Day. Credit: Johns Hopkins University

The overall gains for students with glasses were essentially equivalent to two to four months of additional education compared to students without glasses, said lead author Amanda J. Neitzel, deputy director of evidence research at the Johns Hopkins Center for Research and Reform in Education. For students performing in the lowest quartile and students participating in special education, wearing glasses equated to four to six months of additional learningalmost half a school year.

"This is how you close gaps," Neitzel said.

The academic improvements seen after one year were not sustained over two years. Researchers suspect this could be a result of students wearing their glasses less over time, possibly due to losing or breaking them.

To maintain the academic achievement, the researchers say in addition to providing the initial exams and glasses, school-based vision programs should develop stronger efforts to make sure children are wearing the glasses and to replace them if needed.

"This study has proven our most fundamental assumption in launching Vision for Baltimore six years agothat providing kids glasses in their schools will significantly improve academic success," said Johns Hopkins President Ron Daniels. "These results validate the hard work of all of the program's committed partners, from the principals, staff and teachers all across Baltimore City schools to the optometrists at Vision to Learn and the outreach workers from Johns Hopkins. Looking ahead, we hope to work with our state and city leaders to ensure that this groundbreaking program has sustainable funding for years to come."

Co-authors include: Betsy Wolf of the Department of Education's Institute of Education Sciences; Xinxing Guo, Ahmed F. Shakarchi and Michael X. Repka of the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; Nancy A. Madden of the Johns Hopkins Center for Research and Reform in Education; and David S. Friedman of the Harvard Medical School. Robert Slavin, director of the Center for Research and Reform in Education, who died in April, was a key member of the research team.

Explore further Johns Hopkins study connects student vision with literacy

More information: Effect of a Randomized Interventional School-Based Vision Program on Academic Performance of Students in Grades 3 to 7, JAMA Ophthalmology (2021). Journal information: JAMA Ophthalmology Effect of a Randomized Interventional School-Based Vision Program on Academic Performance of Students in Grades 3 to 7,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2021.3544
Credit: Kazantseva Olga/Shutterstock

Two weeks after your second COVID-19 vaccine dose, the protective effects of vaccination will be at their highest. At this point, you're fully vaccinated. If you still get COVID-19 after this point, you've suffered a "breakthrough" infection. Broadly speaking, breakthrough infections are similar to regular COVID-19 infections in unvaccinated peoplebut there are some differences. Here is what to look out for if you've had both jabs.

According to the COVID Symptom Study, the five most common symptoms of a breakthrough infection are a headache, a runny nose, sneezing, a sore throat and loss of smell. Some of these are the same symptoms that people who haven't had a vaccine experience. If you haven't been vaccinated, three of the most common symptoms are also a headache, sore throat and runny nose.

However, the two other most common symptoms in the unvaccinated are fever and a persistent cough. These two "classic" COVID-19 symptoms become much less common once you've had your jabs. One study has found that people with breakthrough infections are 58% less likely to have a fever compared with unvaccinated people. Rather, COVID-19 after vaccination has been described as feeling like a head cold for many.

Vaccinated people are also less likely than unvaccinated people to be hospitalized if they develop COVID-19. They're also likely to have fewer symptoms during the initial stages of the illness and are less likely to develop long COVID.

The reasons for the disease being milder in vaccinated people could be because vaccines, if they don't block infection, seem to lead to infected people having fewer virus particles in their body. However, this has yet to be confirmed.

What raises the risk?

In the UK, research has found that 0.2% of the populationor one person in every 500experiences a breakthrough infection once fully vaccinated. But not everyone is at the same risk. Four things appear to contribute to how well you are protected by vaccination.

1. Vaccine type

The first is the specific vaccine type you received and the relative risk reduction that each type offers. Relative risk reduction is a measure of how much a vaccine reduces the risk of someone developing COVID-19 compared to someone who didn't get vaccinated.

Clinical trials found that the Moderna vaccine reduced a person's risk of developing symptomatic COVID-19 by 94%, while the Pfizer vaccine reduced this risk by 95%. The Johnson & Johnson and AstraZeneca vaccines performed less well, reducing this risk by about 66% and 70% respectively (though protection offered by the AstraZeneca vaccine appeared to rise to 81% if a longer gap was left between doses).

2. Time since vaccination

But these figures don't paint the complete picture. It's becoming increasingly evident that length of time since vaccination is also important and is one of the reasons why the debate over booster immunisations is growing in intensity.

Early research, still in preprint (and so yet to be reviewed by other scientists), suggests that the Pfizer vaccine's protection wanes over the six months following vaccination. Another preprint from Israel also suggests that this is the case. It's too soon to know what happens to vaccine efficacy beyond six months in the double vaccinated, but it's likely to reduce further.

3. Variants

Another important factor is the variant of the virus that you're facing. The reductions in risk above were calculated largely by testing vaccines against the original form of the coronavirus.

But when facing the alpha variant, data from Public Health England suggests that two doses of the Pfizer vaccine is slightly less protective, reducing the risk of getting COVID-19 symptoms by 93%. Against delta, the level of protection falls even further, to 88%. The AstraZeneca vaccine is also affected this way.

The COVID Symptom Study backs all of this up. Its data suggests in the two to four weeks after receiving your second Pfizer jab, you're around 87% less likely to get COVID-19 symptoms when facing delta. After four to five months, that figure falls to 77%.

4. Your immune system

It's important to remember that the above figures refer to average risk reduction across a population. Your own risk will depend on your own levels of immunity and other person-specific factors (such as how exposed you are to the virus, which might be determined by your job).

Immune fitness typically reduces with age. Long-term medical conditions may also impair our response to vaccination. Older people or people with compromised immune systems may therefore have lower levels of vaccine-induced protection against COVID-19, or may see their protection wane more quickly.

It's also worth remembering that the most clinically vulnerable received their vaccines first, possibly over eight months ago, which may heighten their risk of experiencing a breakthrough infection due to protection waning.

Do you need to worry?

Vaccines still vastly reduce your chances of getting COVID-19. They also to an even greater degree protect against hospitalization and death.

However, it's concerning seeing breakthrough infections, and the worry is that they might increase if vaccine protection does, as suspected, fall over time. Hence the UK government is planning to give a booster dose to those most vulnerable, and is also considering whether boosters should be given more widely. Other countries, including France and Germany, are already planning on offering boosters to groups considered to be at higher risk from COVID-19.

But even boosters end up being used, this shouldn't be interpreted as vaccines not working. And in the meantime, it's essential to promote vaccination to all those eligible who have not yet been vaccinated.

Explore further COVID vaccines cut odds of hospitalization by two-thirds

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The French government said on Thursday it would make birth control free for all women under 25, expanding a scheme currently targeting under-18s to ensure young women don't stop taking contraception because they cannot afford it.

Health Minister Olivier Veran said surveys had shown a decline in the use of contraception among "a certain number of young women".

"Their main reason for going without (birth control) is financial," he said.

The scheme covers the pill, IUDs, contraceptive patches and other methods composed of steroid hormones.

Visits to the doctor for contraception will also be free, Veran said.

The move is part of a series of measures taken by President Emmanuel Macron's government to boost women's rights and alleviate youth poverty.

Last year, the government made free contraception available to girls under 15 for the first timepreviously it was only available to girls aged between 15 and 18as part of a bid to end underage abortions.

Several European countries, including Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Norway, make contraception free for teens.

Britain makes several forms of contraception free to all.

In France, the number of abortions among 15-18 year-olds fell from 9.5 per 1,000 girls between 2012 and 2018 to 6 per 1,000.

But in some developed countries, the free contraception won by women after decades of campaigning is coming under attack again from the religious right.

In the US, former president Barack Obama's signature health reform, known as Obamacare, gave most people with health insurance free access to birth control.

But his successor Donald Trump scrapped the measure, allowing employers to opt out of providing contraception coverage on religious groundsa decision upheld by the Supreme Court in 2020.

Poland's conservative government has also heavily restricted access to emergency contraception as part of its war on birth control.

 2021 AFP
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Genetic muscle diseases lead to progressive muscle wasting and often early death, with few treatment options and no cure. Some gene therapies that use a harmless virus to deliver a functioning copy of a disease-causing gene to cells have shown promise in clinical trials for a subset of muscular dystrophies, but have faced challenges. High doses of the gene-carrying virus are needed to reach the muscles throughout the body and the viruses used in these trials often end up in the liver more than in the muscle. This has led to high levels of the virus in the liver, severe adverse side effects, and even death in some trial participants.

Researchers at the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and Harvard University have developed a new family of adeno-associated viruses (AAVs)the gene-delivering workhorse of gene therapythat improve targeting of the muscle tissue, which could be safer and more effective for patients with muscle disease. This group of viral vectors, which the researchers call MyoAAV, is more than 10 times more efficient at reaching muscle than those currently used in clinical trials and largely avoids the liver. The team showed that, because of this increased efficiency, MyoAAV can be used to deliver therapeutic genes at around 100 to 250 times lower doses than other viral vectors used in other studies and trials, potentially reducing the risk of liver damage and other serious side effects.

In a study published in Cell, Sharif Tabebordbar, a research scientist at the Broad, and collaborators describe how they modified the outer protein shell of AAV, known as the capsid, to create MyoAAV. They did this using a method they developed called Directed Evolution of AAV capsids Leveraging In Vivo Expression of transgene RNA (DELIVER).

Using MyoAAV, the researchers delivered either therapeutic genes or the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing system specifically to muscle cells. They improved muscle function in mouse models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the most common form of genetic muscle disease, and of a rarer disease called X-linked myotubular myopathy. The researchers also found that MyoAAV can effectively deliver gene therapies to muscle in nonhuman primates and to human muscle cells.

Researchers have engineered a gene-shuttling virus used in gene therapy to better target muscle tissue at lower doses. Credit: Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard

The findings are the culmination of 10 years of work from Tabebordbar, the study's first author, who has devoted his career to finding a better gene therapy for genetic muscle disease. When Tabebordbar was a teenager, his father began having trouble walking and eventually became wheelchair-bound. He was later diagnosed with a rare genetic muscle disease.

"I watched my dad get worse and worse each day. It was a huge challenge to do things together as a familygenetic disease is a burden on not only patients but families. I thought: This is very unfair to patients and there's got to be a way to fix this. That's been my motivation during the 10 years that I've been working in the field of gene therapy," said Tabebordbar, who is in the lab of Pardis Sabeti, institute member at Broad and a professor at Harvard University.

"There have been many capsid engineering studies, which we've learned a lot from, but what we've done here is very comprehensive. We've evolved a family of capsids, found the mechanism by which it delivers genes, showed that this mechanism is conserved between species, and showed that we can provide a therapeutic benefit in animal models with an extremely low dose of the virus. Now we're extremely excited about how this can be used to enable effective drug development for patients," said Tabebordbar.

Homing in on muscle

The field of gene therapy has made significant advances in restoring functional copies of dysfunctional genes for a range of genetic diseases. Delivering functioning genes to muscle cells has shown promise for treating muscle diseases, but has been challenging.

"Scientists have been doing preclinical work for in vivo gene therapy for the last 15 years and have made tremendous progress. We know that if you get enough of the drug into the target tissue, it's going to be efficacious. It's all about delivering a safe dose of the virus," said Tabebordbar.

Tabebordbar and his team started with AAV9, a commonly used gene-delivery vehicle in gene therapy, and used DELIVER to improve its ability to shuttle genes into muscle cells.

The researchers first generated millions of different AAV capsids by adding random strings of amino acids to the portion of the AAV capsid that is exposed on the surface of the virus and binds to cells. They then injected the capsids into mice and non-human primates and sampled and sequenced muscle tissue throughout the body to look for the capsids that had successfully delivered their genetic cargo. They found a family of capsid variantsMyoAAVwith a unique surface structure that specifically targets muscle cells and used MyoAAV for the next step: attempting to treat genetic muscle disease in animal models.

"Our method is unique because we screened a wide array of capsids and used very stringent selection criteria. We wanted to find capsids that could not only physically enter the cell, but also proceed through different steps of transduction and express their transgenes," said Tabebordbar.

Gene repair in mice

In the mouse model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, MyoAAV carrying CRISPR-Cas9 led to more widespread repair of the dysfunctional gene, called dystrophin, in muscle tissue compared to the conventional AAV9 carrying the CRISPR components. The muscles of the MyoAAV-treated animals also showed greater strength and function.

In collaboration with Alan Beggs' lab at Boston Children's Hospital, the research team showed that MyoAAV was also effective at treating X-linked myotubular myopathy (XLMTM) in mice, a disease that is lethal after about 10 weeks in these animals. After receiving a 100 times lower amount of the virus that is currently used in clinical trials, all six mice treated with MyoAAV in the study lived as long as normal mice, while mice treated with AAV9 lived only up to 21 weeks of age.

MyoAAV designed for nonhuman primates also delivered genes to muscles in these animals far more efficiently than naturally occurring capsids currently used in clinical trials. MyoAAV also successfully introduced genes to human cells in the lab. The various MyoAAV capsids used a similar mechanism to deliver genes to mouse and human muscle cells, suggesting that MyoAAV can be used for potent muscle-directed gene delivery across different species.

"All of these results demonstrate the broad applicability of the MyoAAV vectors for delivery to muscle. These vectors work in different disease models and across different ages, strains, and species, which demonstrates the robustness of this family of AAVs," says Amy Wagers, a co-senior author of the study, professor and co-chair of Harvard's Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, and senior investigator at the Joslin Diabetes Center. "We have an enormous amount of information about this class of vectors from which the field can launch many exciting new studies."

The research team, which included graduate students Kim Lagerborg, Alexandra Stanton, and Simon Ye in the Sabeti lab at Broad, believes DELIVER has the potential to make highly specific viral capsids for any type of tissue, which could spur the development of gene therapies for genetic diseases affecting various organs with unmet medical need.

"We have developed a family of viral capsids that exquisitely targets skeletal muscle, that we've been able to test through multiple preclinical stages and in multiple disease models," said Sabeti. "We went through many, many preclinical steps to find something that may potentially be ready for the clinic in the near future."

Explore further iPS cells show therapeutic benefits for a rare muscle dystrophy

More information: Tabebordbar M, et al. Directed evolution of a family of AAV capsid variants enabling potent muscle-directed gene delivery across species. Cell. Online September 9, 2021. Journal information: Cell Tabebordbar M, et al. Directed evolution of a family of AAV capsid variants enabling potent muscle-directed gene delivery across species.. Online September 9, 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.08.028
Construction of LASSO Logistic regression model and its predictive power for neoadjuvant therapy. Credit: FU Changfang

A research team by Prof. Yang Wulin and Dai Haiming from the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences recently proposed a genetic classifier that can predict the sensitivity of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for breast cancer in the field of tumor molecular markers.

Breast cancer is a kind of malignant tumor with high clinical and biological heterogeneity. Different subtypes respond to chemotherapy with different clinical characteristics. Therefore, it is important to develop methods to predict treatment sensitivity, which is the basis of precision medicine for breast cancer, so that patients can choose the best treatment strategy and avoid overtreatment.

In this study, the researchers built a prediction model with 25-gene signature using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression with the help of patient drug response data.

The model has many advantages, "it can predict pathologic complete response to paclitaxel and anthracycline-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy with high accuracy and is applicable to various subtypes of breast cancer, demonstrating an important contribution of the immune ecosystem to chemotherapeutic sensitivity." said Yang Wulin, who led the research team.

Having shown good predictive abilities for different batches of data and various breast cancer subtypes, and displaying good generalization ability, this gene signature is expected to be promoted as a new diagnostic scheme to predict the sensitive one to chemotherapy in clinical practice.

"It can therefore select the optimal scheme for breast cancer and provide patients with chances of precise treatment," said Yang.

The results have been published in Frontiers in Immunology.

Explore further Study identifies biomarker for breast cancer response to immunotherapy

More information: Changfang Fu et al, An Immune-Associated Genomic Signature Effectively Predicts Pathologic Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Paclitaxel and Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer, Frontiers in Immunology (2021). Journal information: Frontiers in Immunology Changfang Fu et al, An Immune-Associated Genomic Signature Effectively Predicts Pathologic Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Paclitaxel and Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer,(2021). DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.704655
A study in rural Bangladesh has concluded that preventive iron treatment has no impact on young childrens development. Credit: WEHI

A study in rural Bangladesh has concluded that preventive iron treatment has no impact on young children's development.

Iron supplements are administered to young children worldwide to prevent anemia, in line with global guidelines.

Led by WEHI Associate Professor Sant-Rayn Pasricha, in collaboration with Dr. Jena Hamadani from the International Center for Diarrheal Diseases Research Bangladesh and Professor Beverley-Ann Biggs from the Doherty Institute, and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the study measured the impact of iron supplements on child cognitive function, behavior and development.

Supplements show no impact on development

Iron was provided to eight-month-old children, as both iron drops and home fortification packets (multiple micronutrient powders), and neither intervention improved child development, although both improved anemia.

The study measured children's cognitive, language and motor development, as well as behavior, and growth, including height and weight, and found iron supplements had no impact on any of these areas of development.

Associate Professor Pasricha said the research could lead to major changes in global nutrition policy.

"We have been administering iron supplements to young children worldwide for decades in the belief that it had a positive impact on their development, without proper evidence it was actually beneficial," he said.

"What we have demonstrated, is that while iron supplements improved anemia in children, these interventions had no impact on growth, cognitive function, behavior or development."

"This has implications for how we treat iron deficiency and anemia in babies and young children worldwide."

Guiding future global health policy

Associate Professor Pasricha said anemia in young children has long been linked with poor health outcomes and developmental delays.

"This led to policies of universal distribution of iron interventions to children, based on the assumption that iron would reverse poor child development," he said. "Our rigorous study shows this is not the case."

The study also evaluated adverse side effects in children who took the iron supplements preventatively.

Dr. Hamadani said for some of these children the supplements may do more harm than good.

"In children taking iron supplements who did not have anemia, they may actually have had increased presentations to clinics due to episodes of diarrhea, possibly indicating iron interventions were doing more harm than good," she said.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends iron supplements are given to all young children in low and middle-income countries where anemia is common.

"We need to carefully reconsider the use of these interventions based on this study," Associate Professor Pasricha said.

"It also puts into question the need to screen otherwise healthy, asymptomatic children for anemia."

Professor Biggs said she expected the findings to inform future global health policy guidelines about the use of iron interventions in young children.

"This study may also help inform guidelines for the treatment and prevention of anemia in Indigenous populations in Australia," she said.

More information: Sant-Rayn Pasricha et al, Benefits and Risks of Iron Interventions in Infants in Rural Bangladesh, New England Journal of Medicine (2021). Journal information: New England Journal of Medicine Sant-Rayn Pasricha et al, Benefits and Risks of Iron Interventions in Infants in Rural Bangladesh,(2021). DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2034187
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

As New Zealand remains under different levels of restriction, the psychological toll of the Delta outbreak may start to show, even as lockdown eases for everyone outside Auckland.

We know that stress and isolation associated with a lockdown can exacerbate underlying mental illnesses. But even for people with no existing concerns, the impact can show in more subtle ways, on a continuum between flourishing and languishing.

Imagine a t-shaped cross with symptoms of mental illness on the horizontal axis ranging from severe to none, and mental health on the vertical axis, ranging from high (flourishing) to low (languishing). Under this model, it's quite possible to experience a mental illness but still be flourishing or to have no symptoms of a mental illness, yet be in a state where life feels dull and meaningless.

Increased levels of languishing were reported in the UK as extended lockdowns continued. New Zealanders, especially in Auckland, are at risk of experiencing a similar decline in their mental health as the groundhog days of an extended lockdown continue.

Essential workers at risk of burnout

For health workers, extended lockdowns come with a risk of professional burnout. Health Minister Andrew Little recently noted the high levels of stress experienced by nurses and doctors as they continue to provide care in trying circumstances.

The World Health Organization defines burnout as mental and physical exhaustion, feelings of cynicism and detachment from work, and a loss of productivity.

Prior to lockdown, nurses were on the verge of strike action, spurred on by high levels of reported burnout. The ongoing demand due to COVID-19 is unlikely to alleviate this.

Recent media comments regarding the well-being of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Director-General of Health Ashley Bloomfield remind us that public servants are not immune either. Nor are essential workers such as truck drivers and supermarket workers. The latter in particular are at increased risk because of abuse they suffer from irritated shoppers and the shock linked to the recent supermarket terror attack.

Vaccination may ease anxiety

As more people become fully vaccinated, people's perception of threat linked to an outbreak is likely to diminish. So, too, are our levels of anxiety, if overseas experience is anything to go by.

Asking too many questions, withdrawing and regressing are signs your child may be having lockdown anxiety, but there are ways to help them cope. #abc730 https://t.co/yu97lAvLel  abc730 (@abc730) September 1, 2021

This shift in the public mindset is logical and would signal a step towards us learning to live with COVID-19 in the same way perhaps as we have learnt to live with other diseases. But experience to date suggests this transition is likely to have some ups and downs, with the ongoing potential emergence of new COVID-19 variants.

As vaccination rates rise, there is also a risk that media and the public begin to stigmatize identifiable groups who haven't been vaccinated, blaming them for the spread of the virus and a loss of liberty. New Zealand had a taste of this recently when one cluster of the Delta outbreak was linked to a Samoan church, triggering online racist comments blaming them for the lockdown.

These types of comments increase the suffering of those already affected by the virus. They also overlook the evidence for substantial inequities in access to healthcare.

But languishing, burnout and stigmatization are not inevitable consequences of an ongoing lockdown. Noticing changes in your own mental health is the first step to preventing a slide into languishing.

Sir Mason Durie's Te Whare Tapa Wha model is an excellent framework to guide this self-reflection. It provides a holistic model of well-being covering mental, physical, social and spiritual domains.

To help combat burnout, a simple step we can all take is to show appreciation to essential workers. In 2020, public displays of support for healthcare workers were widespread in other parts of the world, but less common in New Zealand.

Now is the time to thank our supermarket workers, truck drivers, public servants, doctors and nurses who continue to serve us. Demonstrating that these workers are valued can help buffer against professional burnout as they feel more engaged and satisfied with their work.

Understanding more about disparities in our health systemand reminding ourselves that COVID-19, not specific groups of people, is the problem is another step towards reducing stigma. Taking these small steps can help all of us us flourish, regardless of what the virus throws at us.

Explore further New Zealand extends Delta outbreak lockdown

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

The European Medicines Agency said Thursday a coronavirus variant known as "Mu" could be cause for concern, although there is no data yet to show it will overtake the dominant Delta strain.

Mu, which was first identified in Colombia in January and is known scientifically as B.1.621, was classified earlier this month as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization.

The EMA, while mainly focused on the highly transmissible Delta variant, is "also looking into other variants that might be spreading, like the Lambda one (identified in Peru) and more recently the Mu one," its vaccines strategy chief Marco Cavaleri told a press briefing.

"The Mu one being potentially more of concern because of the potential increased immune escape that it may show."

The Amsterdam-based regulator, which checks medicines for the 27-nation EU, will discuss with vaccine developers the effectiveness of current jabs in tackling the Mu variant, Cavaleri added.

"However, I have to say that we don't have yet data that would show that the Mu variant is spreading that much, and whether it will have any chance to overtake the Delta variant as a dominant strain."

All viruses, including SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19, mutate over time. Most mutations have little or no effect but some can influence properties of viruses including how easily they spread, the severity of the disease they cause, and their resistance to vaccines.

The WHO currently identifies four COVID-19 variants of concern, including Alpha, which is present in 193 countries, and Delta, present in 170 countries.

Five variants, including Mu, are to be monitored.

After being detected in Colombia, Mu has since been reported in other South American countries and in Europe.

The WHO said its global prevalence has declined to below 0.1 percent among sequenced cases. In Colombia, however, it is at 39 percent.

Explore further WHO monitoring new coronavirus variant named 'Mu'

 2021 AFP
From left to right: Guro L. Goll, consultant physician and postdoc, Silje W. Syversen, consultant physician and postdoc, Kristin K. Jrgensen, consultant physician and postdoc at Ahus and Espen A. Haavardsholm, professor at Institute of Clinical Medicine and Head of research and innovation at Diakonhjemmet hospital. Credit: Nicolas Tourrenc

It is not necessary to tailor the medication doses to patients, at thestart of treatment, for patients to have a good effect. This is shown by a new Norwegian study led by Professor Espen A. Haavardsholm.

Ulcerative colitis, Chrohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, spondylitis and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory diseases of the intestines, joints and skin. The diseases can cause a lot of pain and ailments, fatigue and low quality of life in patients. The use of biological medicines have in recent years demonstrated to be effective against the diseases and has led to major improvements in the treatment of patients.

However, many patients do not experience as good an effect of the medication as they had hoped. It is therefore important to investigate how the treatment effect can be carried out in the best possible way.

The Norwegian study NOR-DRUM, The NORwegian DRUg Monitoring study, has examined patients who have been treated with the drug Infliximab for these various inflammatory diseases.

"The result shows that personalized treatment, which is based on adjusting the medicine according to the concentration of medicine in the blood, does not give a better result in the patients compared with standard dosage," says Espen A. Haavardsholm.

He is a professor at the Institute of Clinical Medicine and consultant physician at Diakonhjemmet hospital.

It is therefore not necessary to adapt the doses to the patients at the start of the treatment for the treatment to have a good result.

"Patients can thus be confident that they will receive the best treatment when starting Infliximab with standard dosage of the medicine," he explains.

Medicines that reduce disease activity

In chronic inflammatory diseases, the patient has an over-active immune system that attacks the body. The protein TNF-alpha plays an important role in the development of the disease, by promoting inflammatory processes in the body.

Infliximab is a drug that blocks TNF-alpha and suppresses the activity of the immune system. The medicine leads to lower disease activity in the body, less fatigue and pain, and generally better quality of life in patients.

The aim of the NOR-DRUM study has been to compare personalized adaptations of the medicine with treatment with standard doses, which are doses based on the patient's weight.

"There has been a long and extensive debate both nationally and internationally about whether personalized treatment of these drugs provides better treatment than the usual treatment," explains Haavardsholm.

Either standard or personalized dose for 30 weeks

The study followed 400 patients who started treatment with Infliximab. The medicine was administered intravenously into the arm at the hospital every 2 to 10 weeks. Regular blood samples were taken from the patients to measure the concentration of the medicine in the blood.

The patients were randomly divided into two groups. One group received standard dosage, while the other group had their medicine dose adjusted along the way, based on the level of medicine they had in their blood.

The results showed that the same number of patients in each group achieved a good effect from the medicine. Treatment effect was measured in the proportion of patients with good response and low disease activity after 30 weeks of treatment.

Provides practical consequences for the treatment

This is the first part of the NOR-DRUM study and the first randomized, controlled study in the field. The researchers expect that the results of this study will have practical consequences for the follow-up of patients starting treatment with Infliximab, both nationally and internationally.

"In addition to safety for the patients, therapists now no longer need to follow up the patient with regular measurements of the serum concentration of the medicine and continuous adjustment of the medicine dosage," Haavardsholm explains.

Most patients are treated with drugs like Infliximab for a period of several years. The second part of the study will therefore investigate whether personalized treatment is more effective than standard dosage in continued treatment to keep the diseases under control.

National interdisciplinary collaboration

The study is led by Haavardsholm and Silje W. Syversen, consultant physician and researcher at Diakonhjemmet hospital. In addition, Professor Jrgen Jahnsen at UiO and Ahus has been part of the steering group for the study.

Haavardsholm points out that NOR-DRUM is a result of good collaboration between several clinical disciplines and institutions.

"A unique interdisciplinary research collaboration between key environments in the three clinical disciplines of gastroenterology, dermatology and rheumatology, in addition to a laboratory environment at Radiumhospitalet OUH with cutting-edge expertise, is behind the establishment and implementation of the NOR-DRUM study," he says.

There has been a major national effort, with patients from every health region and a number of different hospitals.

"As many as 21 hospitals around the country have participated, with patients from every health region. Such a national collaboration is absolutely essential if a small country like Norway is to carry out large clinical studies like this," he adds.

The study is published in the prestigious journal JAMA.

Explore further Therapeutic drug monitoring does not improve remission for patients starting infliximab

More information: Silje Watterdal Syversen et al, Effect of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring vs Standard Therapy During Infliximab Induction on Disease Remission in Patients With Chronic Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases, JAMA (2021). Journal information: Journal of the American Medical Association Silje Watterdal Syversen et al, Effect of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring vs Standard Therapy During Infliximab Induction on Disease Remission in Patients With Chronic Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jama.2021.4172
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

In North Carolina, the Chapel Hill-Carrboro schools is giving students water bottles they can top off throughout the day at bottle-filling stations installed at each of the district's 20 schools.

The school district notified families and staff that it was fitting water fountains that have been turned off since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic with bottle fillers. The bottles will be given to students this month.

All CHCCS schools now have at least two bottle fillers, with plans to equip all remaining water fountains with bottle fillers over the next two months, said Eric Allen, senior executive director of operations.

The fountains are not being removed or replaced, Allen said. Instead, they're being fitted with attached bottle fillers.

"By shutting down the ability to drink directly from the fountains we reduce the (possibility) of someone drinking from the fountain after someone else touched it with their lips or saliva," Allen said.

The decision was made in accordance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services to avoid using public water fountains, Allen said.

As part of its guidance to gyms and fitness centers in July, DHHS advised, "Discontinue use of drinking directly from water fountains and provide disposable cups or labeled water bottles for individuals when using any water fountains."

The N.C. Office of State Human Resources also recommended disabling water fountains that lack touch-less features.

Last month, UNC-Chapel Hill caught flak for deciding to bring back a first day of class tradition and allowing students to line up to take a sip from the Old Well water fountain, which is said to bring students good luck.

Images of students waiting to get a drink from the fountainwhich didn't happen last year due to the pandemicdrew criticism on social media from people who said resuming the practice amid COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations was a bad idea.

Risk of covid spread through water fountains

But what is the actual risk of contracting COVID-19 from a public water fountain?

Rachel Graham, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, said the prevailing evidence doesn't indicate a high "direct risk" of contracting the virus from a water fountain.

"That being said, it's not completely absent" she said.

Graham pointed to a study published by Cambridge University Press in March, in which researchers collected samples from playground equipment and water fountainsspecifically, the dispensing button and the faucet on fountainsacross six cities in central Israel that each had a "high overall prevalence of disease." Of the 25 samples collected from water fountains, one tested positive for COVID-19.

That doesn't mean children can drink from water fountains worry-free, Graham said. For one, because kids under 12 are still ineligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.

If those kids become infected, they're susceptible to higher viral loads "in their mucosal surfaces, so in their noses, perhaps in their mouths as well," Graham said. "If they then come in contact with a water fountain, with especially little kids, who tend to stick their mouths on water fountains, that becomes a potential increased vector transmission state."

Spread of other diseases

It's also important to consider the spread of other infectious diseases Graham said.

COVID-19 may not be as transmissible through surfaces like a water fountain, but other infectious diseases like influenza and the common cold are, she said. And getting sick with the flu or a cold could make a child more susceptible to a COVID-19 infection too.

That's because "a healthy immune system is the primary barrier against any kind of infection, so if the immune system is already compromised, your chances of getting sick with other things increases as well," Graham said.

At the end of the day, it's better to be cautious, Graham said.

Even though the data doesn't necessarily show a high risk of COVID transmission through water fountains, she said she supports CHCCS keeping them shut for now and giving students access to bottle fillers instead.

Explore further Is it safe to drink from a fountain during the pandemic?

2021 The News & Observer.

Distributed at Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Vaccinated South Dakotans are very likely to get booster shots. Credit: South Dakota State University

The South Dakota COVID-19 Family Impact Survey 2021 was conducted from July 31st to August 14th, 2021 by The SDSU Poll, a research group housed in the School of American and Global Studies at South Dakota State University. This survey builds upon similar surveys conducted by The SDSU Poll in October 2020 and April 2021. In this poll, a total of 573 registered voters in South Dakota answered questions about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their daily lives. The margin of error of this survey was +/- 4 %, on par with other state-wide polls.

Unvaccinated South Dakotans Display Strong Vaccine Hesitancy

COVID-19 vaccination became a divisive issue in South Dakota, as well as in the entire country. Despite a wide availability of vaccines that experts consider safe and effective, a sizable portion of the population has not yet been vaccinated. The data provided by the South Dakota Department of Health indicate that only about 60% of the adult population has been vaccinated.

We asked the unvaccinated respondents in our survey about their likelihood getting vaccination; 65% responded that they are "very unlikely" and 16% that they are "somewhat unlikely" to receive vaccination. About 8% said they were "somewhat likely" or "very likely" to get vaccinated. Just over 11% said they were "not sure." These findings underscore the strong sense of vaccine hesitancy in South Dakota.

Public health experts believe that approximately 70-80% of the population needs to be vaccinated to reach "heard immunity" and to bring the pandemic under control. Convincing the unvaccinated proportion of the population will not be an easy task. We have previously reported that religious leaders might play a crucial role in encouraging the unvaccinated segment of the population to receive a COVCID-19 vaccine.

The partisan polarization of vaccinations. Credit: South Dakota State University

The emergence of new and highly contagious virus mutations, such as the delta variant, threaten to prolong the pandemic. Experts believe that even those who are fully vaccinated might need a booster shot approximately eight months after initial vaccination.

The Biden administration announced a plan to start offering booster shots as of September 20th. We asked South Dakotans who had already been vaccinated how likely they are to receive a booster shot once available. Amongst these people, 85% said that it is "very likely" or "somewhat likely" they will get a booster shot. Only 6% mentioned that they are either "somewhat unlikely" or "very unlikely" to get the booster shot, and about 9% were "not sure." Put differently: In for a dime, in for a dollar.

Credit: South Dakota State University

The results from our survey illustrate in a painful way the divisions among South Dakotans on vaccination. On the one hand, a majority of the population has received COVID-19 vaccination, yet a large minority has expressed strong reluctance to get vaccinated. Vaccine hesitancy is a complex issue that has many causes but it is without a doubt that the politicization of the pandemic is one of the main culprits.

The divisions between Democratic and Republican parties on COVID-19 mitigation efforts began shortly after state and federal governments took sharp actions in March of 2020. The national framing and debate on COVID-19 more broadly has clearly shaped South Dakotans' attitudes towards the pandemic and mitigation measures, especially vaccination. The figure below illustrates that 87% of Democrats in South Dakota are vaccinated, compared to 61% of independents, and 46% of Republicans.

These results show that vaccination rates have gone up slightly for both Democrats and Republicans in South Dakota between now and our April survey; an increase of 6 and 7 points, respectively. The results for Independents are quite striking, as they have shot up by 18 points in the intervening four months.

In many regards, the attitudes and behaviors of independents about COVID-19 vaccination was more similar to Republicans than Democrats in the spring, but this clearly has shifted over the summer. We will be paying close attention to any apparent shifts in independents' attitudes and behaviors as we sort through more of our data about other COVID-19 attitudes in the coming weeks.

Explore further Serbia to offer COVID-19 booster shots
In a world of 7.9 billion people, some 5.57 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally. But in low-income countries, only 1.9% of the population has received even one dose. At the root of that vaccine inequity, say Northeastern experts, is an issue of who is calling the metaphorical shots and why. Credit: Matthew Modoono/Northeastern University

In a world of 7.9 billion people, some 5.57 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses have been administered globally. But those doses have not been distributed equally around the world. There's a vast gulf in vaccine rates between wealthier nations and lower-income countries.

About 80% of populations in high-income and upper-middle-income countries have received a first dose, compared with only 20% of populations in low- and lower-middle-income countries, according to the World Health Organization. In just low-income countries, only 1.9% of the population has received even one dose.

At the root of that vaccine inequity, say Northeastern experts, is an issue of who is calling the metaphorical shots and why. And who is in control complicates the already difficult process of sharing the fruits of a critically important scientific enterprise: vaccine production and distribution.

"A critical element of supply chain management that people overlook is power," says Nada Sanders, distinguished professor of supply chain management at Northeastern. "Power is an incredibly powerful force, pun not intended there."

A program called COVAX was established by the World Health Organization and other global health organizations in an attempt to mitigate the disparity. The program leverages the financial backing of wealthier countries to distribute vaccines to people around the world. But in the past year, officials in wealthy countries bought up much of the initial supply of vaccines rather than redistribute them, in some cases to fill stockpiles for the possibility of future doses being needed.

When the White House announced that the United States would be administering a third shot to Americans starting in September, it generated ire among those watching the international vaccine rollout. Their argument: Why focus on boosting the immunity of those who already have some protection when the virus is mutating into increasingly dangerous variants as it spreads among unvaccinated communities globally?

There are generally two possible approaches to getting shots in arms around the world more readily, says Brook Baker, professor of law at Northeastern and a senior policy analyst for Health GAP (Global Access Project).

The first one, which he describes as the "status quo," relies on drug companies to increase their capacities to manufacture vaccines and be willing to share doses to lower-income countries without increasing the prices. But for now, he says, that system is encouraging rich countries to buy up doses while the companies are largely not compelled to share with places that can't pay as much.

The other approach, he says, would be for governments to force drug companies to share their intellectual property around COVID-19 vaccines. Essentially, they would need to share the recipe with other people who wanted to make the life-saving vaccine.

Such a knowledge-sharing approach would need to go beyond simply sharing the recipe, however, Baker says. "You need a cooking class, you need a kitchen, you need an inspector to make sure there aren't mice and roaches running around," he says, extending the recipe analogy.

Sanders agrees, adding that a country may not have the materials, or the technological know-how to produce the vaccines themselves.

"It's complicated. It needs to be done in a very wise way," Sanders says. "It also has the potential for a lot of bad actors to come in."

There is already an illegal market for COVID-19 vaccines, as well as personal protective equipment, vaccination cards, coronavirus tests, and other certifications, says Nikos Passas, professor of criminology and criminal justice and co-director of the Institute for Security and Public Policy at Northeastern. He is also leading a study to explore ways to disrupt the flow of money in illicit and counterfeit medicine networks.

"The minute the Russians and Chinese made available their vaccines, because they came first, there were immediately sales of fake vaccines of these products on the dark web," Passas says. The illegal market for some of the Western vaccines has been smaller, however, he says, because the vaccine is freely available from approved, official channels (like pharmacies, health clinics, and hospitals) in the U.S., for example. In countries where vaccines are in short supply or more difficult to get, he says, there is more motive for people to steal shots or create fake ones to sell.

Baker and Sanders both advocate for the creation of hubs to manufacture vaccines, located in places around the world where they could reach the most people. Such facilities would be built as training centers where the technology to manufacture the vaccines is built to an industrial scale and all of the safety controls are in place. Partners would be brought in to create a sort of apprenticeship program to establish more local know-how to produce the shots at a larger scale.

The World Health Organization and COVAX are currently working to set up such a technology transfer hub for the mRNA vaccine technologies in South Africa.

"It's just getting off its feet. It doesn't have the super strong financial support yet, but it's promising," Baker says. "Should we have started that last year? Yes. If we didn't start last year, should we start this year? Yes."

It's not just about who has the technology and who has the money to pay for it, however, says Sanders. Human relationships, communication, and negotiation also play significant roles. "This is one of the reasons we do not have a 'united world,'" she says. "Technology alone is not the answer and it is illustrated by the problems we see."

Regardless, Baker says, the continual emergence of variants of the virus elevates the threat that the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to devastate the globe, and raises the sense of urgency to shrink the sizes of unvaccinated communities around the world.

"We can't continue with business as usual. We can't guarantee the companies the right to control their intellectual property and not share technology. We need to utilize all the underutilized capacity," he says. "Each month that we wait, thousands more people die. So each month of delay is counted in real people's lives."

Explore further Covax eyes vaccines for just 20% of people in poor nations in 2021
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Promising new data from a recent study indicates that active forms of vitamin D can inhibit the replication and expansion of COVID-19. The study's findings also suggest lumisterol, produced by a chemical reaction in the body using light, works to block COVID-19. Vitamin D and lumisterol metabolites were able to block two specific enzymes (RdRP and Mrpo) required for the SARS-CoV-2 life cycle, according to the team of researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham; the Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences in New Delhi, India; and the University of Western Australia. The study is published in the American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism and has been chosen as an APSselect article for September.

Anthony Fauci, MD, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, suggested in September 2020 that vitamin D could help fight COVID-19. He also estimated that 40% of the U.S. population is vitamin D deficient. Scientists in this new study were able to prove that novel and physiologically relevant vitamin D and lumisterol derivatives "act on multiple targets, suggesting that they may be effective against original and mutant strains of SARS-CoV-2." Other benefits of vitamin D cited by researchers include its low cost and easy access. Andrzej T. Slominski, MD, Ph.D., a senior author of the study, described lumisterol as a natural product.

Once vitamin D is consumed, it is metabolized into various active forms by enzymes called cytochrome oxidases or CYP enzymes. Researchers on this study say their findings help explain a possible mechanism for why low vitamin D levels seem to promote COVID-19 infection and poor outcome in certain individuals. This correlates to other studies showing a relationship between vitamin D deficiency and poor disease outcomes. More studies and clinical trials are planned to test the efficacy of vitamin D and lumisterol as an antiviral therapeutic for COVID-19 in animals and humans.

Credit: American Physiological Society

Explore further Is there a connection between vitamin D deficiency and COVID-19?

More information: Shariq Qayyum et al, Vitamin D and lumisterol novel metabolites can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication machinery enzymes, American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism (2021). Shariq Qayyum et al, Vitamin D and lumisterol novel metabolites can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication machinery enzymes,(2021). DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00174.2021
Press Secretary of the Foreign Ministry of Belarus A.Glaz answers the question of the news agency BelTA about the EU Delegation's demarche

BelTA: There is information that the Delegation of the European Union to Belarus has announced a demarche to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in connection with the illegal border crossings from Belarus to the European Union. What are we talking about?

A.Glaz: Today the Belarusian Foreign Ministry held a working meeting with the representatives of the EU Delegation, where the issues related to the situation on the border were discussed. We see it this way. In diplomacy, any demarche must have clear and convincing legal grounds, rather than emotions, fantasies and assumptions. In this case there are no grounds and there simply cannot be any. There are also none in the text of the statement of the EU Delegation you have mentioned.

Unlike the European side, whose representatives introduce a state of emergency in order to conceal their illegal actions from the public Belarus observes all its international obligations and acts with maximum transparency.

We held a briefing at the Foreign Ministry for the heads of foreign diplomatic missions after the death of the Iraqi citizen on the border who had been forcibly thrown out of Lithuania. By the way, the EU Delegation ignored this event for some reason.

We invited European diplomats to go to the border and see the situation themselves, we have nothing to hide. But no one was interested in this proposal either. We facilitated the visit of a UNHCR representative to the border, so he could talk to them personally and see the real situation with refugees on the border with Poland.

We provided access for the Red Cross staff to them. It is the Belarusian side that provides the necessary medical assistance to refugees, those ones the neighboring countries are not willing to accept in violation of international and national obligations. We are ready to continue following this line.

It is, to say the least, incompetent and unprofessional to try to claim that Belarus is somehow involved in the increase in the number of border crossings. We have nothing to do with the real reasons for the increase in migration flows from problematic regions. But the EU countries, as members of well-known coalitions, have a direct bearing on this.

Geopolitically we cannot influence the choice of migration routes and destinations. The EU's statement about the absence of "objective reasons for the increase in the number of illegal crossings" sounds interesting... I guess they could tell that to the citizens of the donor countries, especially in the current situation - Afghanistan.

Proper protection of our own borders remains the most important task for Belarus. We have brought to the European side specific statistical data reflecting the systematic efforts of Belarusian border guards to suppress channels for illegal migration. Unfortunately, we have not heard similar information, backed up by figures, from the European side.

I would like to recall that the European Union was the first to stop cooperation on migration and cross-border issues with Belarus. It is the EU that since April has not responded to our proposals to hold consultations on migration issues.

So, who is actually politicizing migration questions, issuing ultimatums, imposing sanctions, and politically conditioning the resumption of full-fledged cooperation, including the border questions? The answer is obvious.

I will repeat once again what we have already said more than once: Belarus is ready for constructive interaction and cooperation with the EU on these issues. For us, the border is always a line of cooperation, not a line of discord.

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The following week, on Aug. 27, following another Pachyderm meeting, Kopeski and Alan Ault  a city council candidate and the 911 caller  were at the former Republican headquarters building.

Elder showed up at the location around 2 p.m. "without warning" and "began yelling in intimidating fashion at Mrs. Kopetski," the statement said. It goes on to say Ault feared the confrontation could turn physical and positioned himself between Elder and Kopetski.

Ault then called 911. Elder said earlier this week he had campaign signs at the location and that he stopped to investigate because two individuals he didn't know were "eyeing" the signs. He said that the signs at the location were later stolen.

Kopetski's statement says Elder said he was going to "take Ms. Kopeski out" and that "she didn't deserve to live."

When asked if he said either of those things, Elder said he stood by his previous comments, where he called the incident an "honest misunderstanding."

He also said in a prior statement to the Missoulian he believes Kopetski saw the incident as "an opportunity to embarrass me by calling law enforcement."
The annual cost for the program is budgeted at $271,758, according to a police department new request form for the 2022 fiscal year filed in July. There is also a one-time cost of $72,420 for initial expenses, such as uniforms and equipment.

State legislation passed this year expanded municipal courts from one judge department to three, creating an increased demand for more bailiffs on an everyday basis, Bickell explained. It also allowed for court security to be provided by part-time reserve officers as opposed to full-time police officers.

Since reserve program officers are part-time positions, there are cost-saving benefits associated with the program, Stepper said. Reserve officers are capped in terms of the number of hours theyre authorized to work per year, which reduces fringe costs for the police department.

The program also allows Missoula police to train young individuals who may have interest in becoming full-time officers, Stepper added.

This position provides them with needed experience, and exposure to police work and allows the MPD to evaluate their performance on a day to day basis."

Six new patrol police officers were also sworn in last week. New officers will head to the Montana Law Enforcement Academy in Helena in a few weeks to begin training.

Once their training is completed, (the city) will be able to use them immediately, Bickell said.

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The maximum building height allowed by the new rezone would be 125 feet, which equates to eight or nine stories.
They also urged Kemp to extend waivers of license requirements for health care workers and hospitals to expand capacity for COVID-19 patients.

Kemp's position has been that he's not going to impose any new mandates on anyone during the current COVID-19 surge, even as hospitals set new records for patients and deaths arc upward again. He quickly responded to Johnson and Scott on Wednesday in a letter outlining the steps he was taking to support hospitals and rejected their call to stop any surgeries.

First, hospitals are already fluctuating and monitoring the volume of elective procedures themselves," Kemp wrote. "Second, many elective procedures are critical to the short- and long-term health of millions of Georgians. And finally, banning elective procedures would bankrupt hospital systems already reeling from a year and a half of fighting a global pandemic.

Anna Adams, a spokesperson for the Georgia Hospital Association, said the trade group supports letting its members make their own decisions.

"Hospitals are managing what the surge looks like at their own facilities," Adams said. We think that each hospital is doing what's best for its own community.
I'm disturbed by the number of people willing to falsify a form simply to get their child out of wearing a mask," said Imler, now a substitute teacher. "You're telling your child it's OK to lie about something if you don't like what the rules say.

The Central York School Board, which has expressed staunch opposition to the statewide masking order, offers parents a simple Google form for exemptions. The board believes that school districts should be locally controlled and that parents are the best judge of their childrens medical and mental well-being, the board said.

Nearly identical language was used by some of the other districts that are giving parents the right to assert medical exemptions without a doctors sign-off.

Olivia Pituch, 17, a senior at Central York School District, said most students are not masking up. In her homeroom, she was one of only two students students wearing a mask this week.

She wasn't happy about it.

I want to get rid of the pandemic as much as anyone, and in my opinion, the best way to ensure the pandemic ... gets pushed down to a very manageable level" is by mandating masks, Pituch said in a phone interview. I feel like it should definitely be necessary unless you have a doctors note saying otherwise."
When we discovered ... that St. Nicholas was also lost, we thought that there was some kind of a message there, that the victims did not die alone, Anthoula Katsimatides said. I remember my mom saying that ... John and the other victims were being cradled by St. Nicholas.

This Sept. 10, the eve of the date 20 years after the nation's deadliest terrorist attack, she'll attend the ceremonial lighting of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine, being built to replace the parish church and to honor those who were lost.

The ceremony will be a milestone in a project long beset with bureaucratic tangles and financial woes but now on track for completion next year.

St. Nicholas brings me close to my brother, Anthoula Katsimatides said. Being able to come and worship at the site of my brothers death, in a beautiful chapel that not only honors John but all the victims that died that day and is a symbol of this rebirth, is unbelievably important to me now.

The lighting of the church will come from within. Through an innovative process, interior lights are being designed to illuminate thin panels of marble, mined from the same Pentelic vein in Greece that sourced the Parthenon, the ancient temple in Athens.
The damage done by this betrayal is inestimable. America now sits alone, untrusted by our allies and ridiculed by our enemies. Worse, I and many of my fellow service members  and we are legion  now feel that our leaders have rendered worthless the blood, sweat and tears and treasure we invested through our service over the years.

I served in the U.S. military for over 28 years. I missed the birth of my eldest daughter in 1973 because of a remote tour in Turkey. I put my life on the line over 150 times flying reconnaissance around enemy countries that, given the opportunity, would have readily shot us out of the air in a heartbeat. All this, and for what? To witness today the scorn and ridicule of both our allies and our enemies? To see our national treasure plundered? I served for this? For my part, it feels like 28 years of military service have gone up in dust, smoke and ashes, just like that! Worthless! Worthless because those in whom I swore to put my true faith and allegiance have proven themselves thoroughly unworthy of that faith and allegiance.
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Deputies from the Hampton County Sheriffs Office who responded to the shooting of a renowned South Carolina lawyer over the weekendmonths after his son and wife were murdered at their family estatewrote in their incident report that he had suffered no visible injury, a claim that was almost immediately walked back by authorities on Thursday.

In a copy of the incident report obtained by The Daily Beast, deputies who responded to the Saturday incident indicated that 53-year-old Alex Murdaugh did not have a visible injury and was not under the influence of drugs and alcohol. While the report includes little information about the shooting itself, it does describe the incident as an attempted murder.

A spokesperson for the sheriffs office, however, told the Island Packet that the box that was checked to indicate Murdaugh did not suffer an injury was likely made in error.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) told The Daily Beast that Murdaugh only sustained a superficial gunshot wound to the head and was released from the hospital soon after he arrived.

He did have an injury, the sheriffs office said.

But Murdaughs attorney, Jim Griffin, claimed to the Packet that his client had sustained severe injures from the incidentincluding a skull fracture, minor brain bleeding in two places, and a wound that has an entry and exit point. Murdaugh's spokesperson, Amanda Loveday, also confirmed the 53-year-olds injuries to The Daily Beast and stated that the wounds were not self-inflicted.

The incident report states that around 1:55 p.m. on Sept. 4, deputies were dispatched to Old Salkehatchie Highway in reference to a shooting incident. SLED previously told The Daily Beast that Murdaugh had called 911 about 20 minutes earlier.

While en route, the report states deputies learned that Murdaugh had been shot in the head and was being flown out from a landing zone on the highway to the hospital. Before he left, however, a sheriffs office investigator spoke with Murdaugh at the scene and other deputies secured the location until state authorities arrived.

Story continues

Powerful Lawyers Legal Woes Mount After South Carolina Family Murder Mystery

Griffin previously said that his client had been shot in the head by an unknown truck driver while changing a tire and was airlifted to a Savannah hospital for treatment.

On Thursday, Griffin told Island Packet that Murdaugh stopped on the side of the road after his late wifes Mercedes-Benz indicated he had a low tire. While outside of his car, Griffin said Murdaugh saw a truck pass bybefore the driver turned around and asked if he needed help.

The driver of the truck rolled his window down, came to a stop, and asked if he had car trouble, Griffin said, adding that his client said he didnt know if he could change his tire.

Loveday, his spokesperson, also confirmed to The Daily Beast that Murdaugh said he was stopped because of the low tire indicator light and that the male truck driver in a blue pickup truck asked him if he had car trouble.

After replying, he was shot, Loveday said.

Griffin also told the Island Packet that after the incident, two individuals found Murdaugh injured near his car and helped him. Inside their car, Griffin said, Murdaugh was able to call 911. The pair then helped Murdaugh to an ambulance that was farther down the street before he was eventually airlifted.

Loveday did not confirm those details to The Daily Beast.

Authorities have also not provided details as to why Murdaugh was air-lifted to a local hospital if he did not suffer a visible injury, or why he was released from the hospital hours after the incident if he did have major injuries as his camp states.

There are zero details into the investigation about Murdaughs claim he was shot by an unknown driver who stopped to ask him if he had car trouble. The incident report does not provide any information about a possible suspectand only fuels more questions about what happened on that back road in the Lowcountry.

Despite the swirling questions, Griffin insisted on Thursday that the shooting was not self-inflicted, adding that there was no gun found at the scene and that a SLED agent told him Murdaughs tire had been slashed.

I dont think you choose to have a flat tire or stage a flat tire to commit suicide. That makes no sense, Griffin said, adding that there are many things being reported about the Saturday incident that are incongruent.

It also raises questions about whether there is a possible connection between the recent shooting incident and the murders of Murdaghs family. In early June, his 52-year-old wife, Margaret, and their 22-year-old son, Paul, were both found fatally shot near the hunting dog kennels on their 1,700-acre estate.

The killings have not yet been solved.

South Carolina Family Murder Mystery Just Took a Crazy Turn

To add to the mystery, just hours after the Murdaugh shooting incident last weekend, the lawyer issued a surprise announcement that he had quit the law firm his great-grandfather founded a century ago and was entering rehab.

Griffin told the Island Packet his client entered a drug treatment center to deal with substance abuse issuesand will meet with authorities investigating the shooting after he finishes the first phase of his detox. The State, citing unnamed sources, said the substance was oxycodone.

The murders of my wife and son have caused an incredibly difficult time in my life. I have made a lot of decisions that I truly regret, Murdaugh said in the statement.

Late Monday night, however, the law firm, Peters Murdaugh Parker Eltzroth Detrick, provided a different version of events, revealing that Murdaugh had actually been forced out days earlierafter they discovered that Alex misappropriated funds. While the law firm declined to comment on how much Murdaugh allegedly stole, two people associated with the South Carolina legal community previously told The Daily Beast that the amount is over a million dollars.

On Wednesday, Randolph Murdaugh IV, the eldest brother in the prominent family, was the first to speak on behalf of the rest of the dynasty. A statement issued Wednesday to The Daily Beast said that he and the familys law firm were shocked by his brothers apparent unraveling.

I was shocked, just as the rest of my PMPED family, to learn of my brother, Alexs, drug addiction and stealing of money, he said. I love my law firm, family, and also love Alex as my brother. While I will support him in his recovery, I do not support, condone, or excuse his conduct in stealing by manipulating his most trusted relationships.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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The Kistler family has a history of honoring and supporting the military through its faith-based organization, HOPE Ministries International.

We have presented supportive things like this in the past (through HOPE Ministries International) to the Pentagon, Kistler said. Those items are there to this day. The Pentagon houses 28,000 employees who not only need to hear from the American people, they love when they do. I have been in the Pentagon and heard personally from those whove been impacted by our efforts. To read messages of love and support from citizens means more than words can express. This banner will do the same.

Timberwolf Axe Throwing is a family-friendly business that does not serve alcohol, according to a previous News Herald article. Visitors ages 10 and older are allowed to throw axes. A special childrens area gives children up to 9-years-old the opportunity to throw Nerf axes as a way to practice for the real thing, allowing the venue to serve groups of all ages.

Our professional staff offers brief instruction to those whove never thrown, Kistler said. It is a very safe activity, especially how we do it at Timberwolf. In fact, those whove never thrown before and havent learned any bad habits tend to be some of our best throwers.
There is no statewide mandate for masks or vaccinations, said Pittsylvania-Danville Health District Director Dr. Scott Spillmann.

In case of medical emergencies, the county will have more than 30 fire and EMS providers working during the events main hours treating most minor injuries on site, Slemp said.

We will also be in contact with the hospitals checking bed status prior to making transport decisions, Slemp said.

Danville Vice Mayor Gary Miller, a cardiologist, said the event will definitely be a super-spreader and a disaster for our area.

I think its going to be a hot mess, Miller said.

A month or two ago before the spread of delta, Miller would have had no problem with the Blue Ridge Rock Festival. Now it should be canceled, he said.

Attendees will spread COVID-19 not only in Danville and Pittsylvania County, but to numerous other areas, he said.

Sovah Health-Danville is already overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients, he added.

We dont have extra room for patients, Miller said. Were bringing in a petri dish, a reservoir of unvaccinated people who are going to spread the COVID.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  The foreign minister of Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, urged the Taliban on Thursday to respect the rights of women and not allow Afghanistan to become a breeding ground for extremist activities.

Retno Marsudi made the comments after meeting with Australias foreign and defense ministers, who are visiting Jakarta to bolster security ties.

Marsudi said Indonesia is closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and hopes the country will not be used as a breeding and training ground for terrorist organizations and activities that threaten peace and stability in the region.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced an all-male interim government that includes many veterans of their hard-line rule in the 1990s and 20-year battle against U.S.-led forces.

Indonesia has suffered a series of militant attacks since bombings on the tourist island of Bali in 2002 killed 202 people, mostly foreigners, including 88 Australians. The Bali bombings were blamed on the al-Qaida-linked Jemaah Islamiyah network.
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"The history of this litigation has given us reason to be skeptical of the representations by the Legislature and its counsel in this matter," the Supreme Court wrote in an order Tuesday.
Buttes Irish remain loyal to their ancestral home  its history, its inhabitants. Daniel Mulhall, Irelands ambassador to the United States knows the feeling  he shares that same fierce loyalty. Butte and Mulhall  you could say its a match made in heaven.

The ambassador visited Butte Wednesday and gave a talk at the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives. He felt right at home and called Butte a wonderful slice of Ireland.

Mulhall has a wealth of diplomatic experience. He was Irelands ambassador to Malaysia from 2001 to 2005. In 2009, he served four years as his countrys ambassador in Germany, followed by four years as ambassador in the United Kingdom.

Four years ago, his diplomatic career pressed onward as he moved across the Atlantic after being named Irelands ambassador to the United States, a job he still holds today.

The 66-year-old Irishman, a native of Waterford, has wanted to come to Butte since President Mary McAleeses May 17, 2006, visit.

He read with interest about her trip to the Mining City and wondered if he would ever be able to visit.

Fifteen years later, his wish came true.

I am following in the footsteps of so many Irish who came here, he said.

The man has three degrees in Irish history and is also well-versed when it comes to Butte Irish history. He talked about such early 20th century Irish dignitaries as Douglas Hyde and Eamon de Valera, both of whom were Mining City visitors and would each later hold the title of president of Ireland.

Butte was a major stop for Irish politicians, he explained. This was the place to be.

Mulhall takes his ambassadorship quite seriously and believes one of his major duties is to connect with Irish America. He explained that many of those long-ago immigrants arrived in stress but were able, in time, to create opportunities throughout the U.S.

The Irish dug the canals, built the railways, and worked the mines, he explained, and changed the fabric of America.

While researching Butte, he learned just how much the towns Irish immigrant population contributed to its growth.

A big chapter of Irish America happened in Butte, he said.

Mulhall humbly told his audience that Ireland owes its freedom, in part, to the immigrants who never forgot their homeland, including those who settled in Butte.

We would never have achieved Irish freedom without the Irish in America, he explained. They played a big part.

The Irish government is committed to the continuation of Irish studies in Montana. So much so, that Mulhall announced that the Friends of Irish Studies, based out of Missoula, will soon be the recipients of a $24,000 grant.

Working closely with the Butte Archives and Buttes Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Friends of Irish Studies will continue to promote Irish cultural events and education throughout Montana.

Following a reception at the Archives, Mulhall, along with his wife, Greta, and the Consul General of Ireland Robert ODriscoll were headed out to tour Butte.

Butte is part of our Irish story, he said.

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BOSTON (AP)  Ethel Kennedy, the wife of the late Robert F. Kennedy, says assassin Sirhan Sirhan should not be released from prison, further roiling a family divide over whether the man convicted of killing her husband in California in 1968 should be freed on parole.

In a brief statement released on Twitter by her daughter, lawyer and activist Kerry Kennedy, Ethel Kennedy said bluntly Tuesday: "He should not be paroled."

"Bobby believed we should work to 'tame the savageness of man and make gentle the life of the world,'" Kennedy, 93, wrote.

"He wanted to end the war in Vietnam and bring people together to build a better, stronger country. More than anything, he wanted to be a good father and loving husband," she wrote, adding: "Our family and our country suffered an unspeakable loss due to the inhumanity of one man. We believe in the gentleness that spared his life, but in taming his act of violence, he should not have the opportunity to terrorize again."

Ethel Kennedy founded the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights. Her statement came a week after former U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Kennedy II, RFK's oldest son, also denounced the possible parole of Sirhan, 77.

Two other RFK offspring, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Douglas Kennedy, have said they support the release.
Was getting out of Afghanistan the right thing to do? For sure, and President Biden is to be applauded for that. Was our exit perfectly executed? Not so much. Ending wars you do not win is a messy process.

After 20 years of war, it took just 10 days for Afghanistan to fall to the Taliban. The takeover was expected, the rapidity was not. The Taliban seized its first provincial capital on Aug. 6. Just 10 days later, by Aug. 15, the Taliban were poised to take control of Kabul. By August 31st the U.S. military was gone, three months beyond the Trump deadline but meeting the Biden deadline.

We still have some messy but important evacuations to take care of  a real challenge  but at the end our twenty year misadventure into nation-building the Taliban of 2001 were replaced by the Taliban of 2021.

I am pondering several important questions: how did we enter this war, why did we stay, how much did it cost, where did the money go and can we learn from it?

We entered Afghanistan after 9/11 to crush the Taliban as a way to get at Al-Qaeda and Osama bin Laden. It was not a formally declared war. The last time Congress declared war, a requirement of our Constitution, was on December 8, 1941, against Japan after Pearl Harbor and on December 11 against Germany. More on that later.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 marked a major turning point in the United States: It outlawed state and local laws designed to prevent people of color from voting and it required the federal government to enforce the protection of equal voting rights. In Montana, the Voting Rights Act invalidated the state restriction permitting only taxpayers to vote, allowing many Native Americans to vote for the first time.

The Voting Rights Act is an important pillar of our representative democracy. Access to the vote is not about politics; its about justice and equality. As recently as 2006, Congress renewed key Voting Rights Act provisions with wide bipartisan support.

However, in 2013 the U.S. Supreme Court destabilized representative democracy when it issued Shelby County v. Holder, rolling back key voting rights enforcement provisions of the Voting Rights Act. Without the enforcement powers of the Voting Rights Act, lawmakers in states, counties, cities and towns across the country passed laws and adopted practices that make it harder for voters of color and language minorities to register and vote. Here in Montana, the 2021 Legislature passed several bills curtailing access to voting, bills that disproportionately affect Native Americans as well as students and seniors.
Arkema mostly uses acrylic paints in his art pieces, though he will occasionally use watercolors. He appreciates how easy acrylics are to use.

It can take forever for oil to dry, and watercolor didnt really work for me at first. But acrylic is very forgiving because it dries fast, and you can paint over what you dont like, he said.

He enjoys painting landscapes and barns, a subject familiar to him from growing up in the country. Lighthouses are another favorite, thanks to his fascination with old buildings.

In 2020, Arkema took his landscape painting to the next level when he completed a piece based on his son Davids farm. It was painted on deer hide his son gave him as canvas. The piece is one of Arkemas favorites.

When my son first saw it, he couldnt say anything, Arkema said, He was just so shocked.

The hide was given to him in 2009. He started painting when he received the hide, put it aside until 2015, started over and finally finished the piece. The sapling wood for the frame is from a tree at Sunnybrook.
A traffic stop late last night Saturday by Clinton Police led to the arrest of a man in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and mushrooms all packaged for sale, according to police.

Brandon James Green Sr., 38, of Clinton, is charged with one count of possession with the intent to deliver more than 5 grams of methamphetamine. The charge is a Class B felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 25 years.

Green also is charged with violating Iowas drug tax stamp law, as well as three counts of possession of a controlled substance-third or subsequent offense for marijuana, psilocybin mushrooms and heroin found in his possession. Each of those charges is a Class D felony that carry a prison sentence of five years.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Clinton Police Officer Sean Patterson, at 11:43 p.m. Saturday, Patterson stopped a white 1997 Buick LeSabre for an improper brake light.

Brandon Green was a passenger in the car driven by John Green.

While Patterson was speaking with the Greens, Clinton Police Officers Brett Johnson and Lucas Bray arrived on the scene. Patterson asked Johnson to write John Green a written warning for the improper brake light.
Its obvious that we are very close to the end of this wreck removal phase, Himes said. We are committed to being as safe now as we were throughout the response. So slow and smooth and steady helps us stay safe.

Even after all giant chunks of the shipwreck are out of the water, the salvage job will be far from over.

At least three sections of the ship, possibly four, will need to be broken down further at a local dock before they can be transported by barge to a scrapyard in Louisiana. Himes said that should take several months.

Meanwhile, crews will need to recover cars and other debris that fell into the water as the Golden Ray was being carved into giant pieces. Then they have to remove metal shipping containers and rock placed around the partly submerged wreck to stabilize it during demolition, as well as take down the giant mesh barrier installed around the site to contain debris.

Those cleanup efforts at the wreck site are expected to take a month or two, Himes said.

Its still a long way to go, said Fletcher Sams, executive director of the Altamaha Riverkeeper environmental group, who has closely followed the Golden Ray demolition.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Meatpacking workers and farm workers who were severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic will be eligible to get grants of up to $600 per person as part of a new $700 million aid program the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday.

Officials said the grants are meant to defray some of the costs workers bore as many of them bought their own protective equipment or took unpaid leave as the virus tore through their industries even as they were required to keep showing up for work.

While the rest of America could work from home, these brave men and women continued to show up for work every single day to ensure that we all food on our tables that we could eat, said Marc Perrone, president of the United Food and Commercial Workers union. Meatpacking plants experienced some of the most deadly COVID-19 outbreaks when the pandemic first came around and there were workers that are deserving of our help, and our thanks and our support.
Pleasure Island in the tourist district of Tumon on Sept. 6, 2021 remains mostly empty.
Editor

Zaldy Dandan is the recipient of the Best Editorial Writer Award of the Society of Professional Journalists, and the CNMI Humanities Award for Outstanding Contributions to Journalism. His three books are available on amazon.com
Mahala by Microsoft, the site that provides pupils and students in South Africa with free Microsoft apps, exposed the personal details of more than 22,000 users.

Since launching in 2017, South Africans between the ages of 8 and 24 have been able to get a free Microsoft 365 licence and 5GB OneDrive storage worth R1,800 when they sign up to Mahala.ms.

The programme is a partnership between Microsoft South Africa, Penguin Lava Lamp Lab, and NBConsult. It aims to enable learners from grades R to 12 to become more productive and better prepared for the next phase of their academic careers or the workplace.

The suite includes well-known productivity apps like Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Outlook, and Excel.

Users who wish to sign up for the programme must visit the Mahala.ms portal and provide details, including their name, email address, and phone number.

Doing so, however, would expose these details to any other users who sign up for the programme.

This flaw was discovered by MyBroadband reader Israel Ndou, who contacted us as he was concerned that malicious actors could sell the information or use it to carry out phishing attacks.

Many of the registered people may not be aware that their details are public and can be easily accessed by others outside of the company, Ndou warned.

If bad actors were to retrieve this information, they would be able to phish the users and possibly harvest additional information to gain access to their OneDrive, and many other online accounts or apps.

Ndou explained the issue was that registered Mahala users could see other users who signed up for the programme on the Mahala.ms portal because the Microsoft subscription provided access to Azure Active Directory (AD), Microsofts cloud-based identity and access management service.

The Azure AD section of the Mahala.ms portal shows a database of registered Mahala users, but this only includes their names. Downloading their details is also restricted.

However, by running a simple command through Microsoft Powershell using a module that can be connected to Azure AD (pictured above), you can download the user names, email addresses, mobile phone numbers, and Mahala.ms email addresses.

Ndou provided the command that could be used to download a CSV file to allow MyBroadband to report the issue to Microsoft.

Instructions for these types of Powershell commands for Azure AD were readily available on the Internet.

A MyBroadband employee who previously signed up for the programme as a student confirmed that he was able to log into Azure AD with his Mahala.ms credentials.

After verifying that he had permissions to access the data in the way Ndou described, MyBroadband reported the issue to Microsoft.

Shortly thereafter, the Mahala.ms user in our office could not view the list of names of users using Azure AD anymore.

A Microsoft spokesperson said the issue was being investigated.

We take privacy seriously and are working to resolve this issue, they said.

What we can confirm is that this does not involve a security vulnerability and any potential data involved is limited to names, and in some cases, email addresses and phone numbers.

At the time of publication, the Mahala.ms site was under maintenance.
South Africa will participate in a study that will trial the use of Chinese company Sinovacs vaccine in children and adolescents, Reuters has reported.

On Thursday, the company and its South African partner Numolux announced that South Africa will form part of its global Phase III trial of the Coronavac vaccine.

The trial will see 14,000 participants between six months and 17 years across South Africa, Chile, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Kenya receiving Sinovacs two-shot vaccine.

In South Africa, 2,000 children and adolescents will be enrolled.

The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of two doses of Coronavac against confirmed symptomatic COVID-19 cases in children and adolescents. Efficacy will also be evaluated against hospitalisation and severe Covid-19, Sinovac and Numolux stated.

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) and World Health Organisation (WHO) have approved the trial.

To date, Sahpra has only approved the AstraZeneca, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, while the Coronavac vaccine has been approved with conditions, for use in adults.

Only the Pfizer-BioNTech and J&J vaccines are generally available at vaccination sites in the country, however.

Following a big increase in daily vaccinations to around 250,000 per day after registrations were opened to persons aged between 18 and 34 years, the last week has seen vaccinations drop slightly to just over 200,000 each day.

As of 17:00 on 8 September 2021, just over 26%, or about 10.4 million of South Africas adult population of 39.8 million people, had received at least one shot of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or J&J vaccine.

Almost 6.9 million have been fully vaccinated.

The government has set itself a target of vaccinating at least 28 million South Africans by the end of December 2021.

The graph below shows the number of vaccines administered in each of South Africas provinces from the start of the vaccine rollout.
The City of Calistoga will again fly the Mexican Flag from the Citys Ceremonial Flagpole from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month.

National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually throughout the Napa Valley and nationwide with proclamations and many activities.

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Compared with Napa County as a whole, Calistoga has a larger proportion of Hispanic residents, at just about 51%, Mayor Chris Canning said at the City Council's meeting Aug. 7. Additionally, last years school district population was close to 85%.

We are always happy to participate in making this acknowledgement which starts at a national level and bring it right on down to the local level, he said.

Recognition of the occasion was the suggestion of Vice Mayor Irais Lopez-Ortega, who at the Aug. 3 City Council meeting requested the flag to be flown. She also noted that the Hispanic community in Calistoga has been in conversation about the possible inclusion of more Latin and South American countries being represented next year.

You can reach Cynthia Sweeney at 942-4035 or csweeney@weeklycalistogan.com.
Chiles Valley District

Alexander Eisele, Volker Eisele Family Estate  "Above average temperatures have kept things moving along at a fairly rapid pace. Higher elevation vineyards at 1,800 and 1,400 feet have been harvesting Zinfandel and Petite Sirah with reports of much lower yields but beautiful fruit quality. Lower elevation vineyards have been picking Chardonnay with the same results: clean fruit, just lower yields. A few more gallons of water on the Cabernet vines that still have a number of weeks to go. Lets hope that the heat waves are behind us."

Spring Mountain District

Stuart Smith, Smith-Madrone Winery  "Keenan, Schweiger, Spring Mountain Vineyard and Smith-Madrone all finished their Chardonnay last week and the fruit was a stunningly beautiful green color with good maturity and excellent chemistry. Theres been a scattering of reds harvested with Schweiger having harvested small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec. Both Keenan and Schweiger expect to pick large amounts of their Cabernet this week, while most other wineries are holding back for a little more maturity. The vines are holding up very well, but were starting to see some yellowing of the basal leaves. Harvest on the Mountain seems to be progressing very nicely so far."

Rutherford

Kristin Belair, Honig Vineyard & Winery  "This past week has been full capacity, all hands-on deck, here at Honig. We finished out the Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc and harvested some young Malbec on Sept. 4. In an unusual scenario, reds have overlapped the whites by over a week! With grapes ripening at lightning speed, the ongoing chess game of where to house all the incoming fruit becomes even more complex. The quality of the incoming fruit and resulting wines so far is quite impressive! Reports from around the neighborhood: Molly Hill at Sequoia Grove reports that 'Currently, we are waiting with bated breath for the start of the red grape harvest. If we get lucky, quality for 2021 looks to be epic!' Marissa Taylor at Rutherford Hill says that they picked Rutherford Sauvignon Blanc last week and were bringing in Merlot from Pope Valley. From Chris Phelps at Inglenook: 'The tempo of harvest has picked up at Inglenook, with 100% of Syrah and Zinfandel coming in this week, as well as solid lots of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. With all red Bordeaux varieties at 23.5 Brix or above, the 3 weeks will be interesting! Low yield and great quality!'
Meanwhile, housing price growth has been high in other Bay Area regions such as west Marin County, eastern Contra Costa County and Napa  areas that could make more sense to live in if you don't have to commute into the city as often or at all.

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"This isn't people fleeing the Bay Area, running away to Miami or Texas," Egan said. "But it does point to a reallocation of people and tech talent within the Bay Area and perhaps broadly within Northern California."

As a result of remote working and reallocation, payroll paid within the city has drastically dropped. San Francisco bases how much of a business's gross receipts are taxable to the city based in part the proportion of their payroll paid within the city, Egan said, and the city could lose tax revenue based on decreasing payroll. Any estimates are currently "highly uncertain," he said, but could have a major impact on the city's economy.

With demand for tech workers still high and survey data showing that many workers prefer flexible work from home policies, Egan said this trend could continue at least in the medium term. Its impact could affect not only city tax revenue and housing demand, but also restaurants, retailers and hotels, which previously relied on office workers as a large part of their clientele.
The COVID-19 pandemic, weve been told, changes everything and that may include one of Californias oldest social support systems, workers compensation.

Legislative tinkering and a potentially disruptive lawsuit threaten to undo what was termed a grand bargain of workers compensation struck more than a century ago.

Employers agreed to compensate, with medical care and cash payments, employees who suffer work-related illnesses and injuries as an exclusive remedy, thereby protecting employers from individual lawsuits for disabilities.

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Employers either obtain insurance to cover their potential liabilities or self-insure, as most larger businesses and government agencies do.

From time to time, the Legislature has altered the system for certain occupational groups, particularly police officers and firefighters, creating a presumption that if they were afflicted by specific disabling conditions, including cancer and post-traumatic stress disorder, they would be entitled to workers compensation benefits without having to prove they were job-related.

However, the grand bargain remained in place for the vast majority of workers and their employers, at least until the pandemic struck.
Royal New Zealand Navy is to participate in an international defence exercise in South East Asia and will also interact with the United Kingdoms Carrier Strike Group (CSG) as it conducts engagement activities in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Auxiliary ship HMNZS Aotearoa (Picture source: Twitter account of RNZ New Plymouth)

Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha and replenishment tanker HMNZS Aotearoa, with a Seasprite helicopter on board, have this week departed Aucklands Hauraki Gulf for the next 2-3 months at sea.

Aircrew on a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3K2 Orion will join the naval Task Group for Bersama Gold 21, a major exercise on the international calendar marking the 50th anniversary of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA). The Orion will also interact with the UK CSG.

FPDA exercises are designed to offer significant value by enhancing cooperation on conventional military operations, building trust and confidence, developing greater people-to-people links and fostering interoperability between the armed forces of the member nations - Australia, United Kingdom, Singapore, Malaysia and New Zealand.

The aim of Bersama Gold 21, to be held off the coast of Singapore and the Malaysian Peninsula, is to exercise FPDA defence forces in the conduct of Combined and Joint Operations in a multi-threat environment. The exercise will commence with Force Integration Training and conclude with a War-at-Sea exercise.

The exact nature of the interaction with the UK CSG is to be finalised but will involve transit in company in East and South East Asia.

The New Zealand Task Group was likely to operate with French Forces in the Pacific en route to Bersama Gold 21 and the Royal Australian Navy on the ships return to New Zealand, in addition to interactions with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, he said.

HMNZS Aotearoa, formerly the Maritime Sustainment Capability project, is an auxiliary ship of the Royal New Zealand Navy. Builder Hyundai Heavy Industries delivered the ship to the Navy in June 2020, and she was commissioned into service on 29 July 2020.

Aotearoa is intended to support other navy warships by enabling re-fueling (diesel) and re-supplying (food and ammunition) during operations. The 26,000-tonne (26,000-long-ton) ship will provide marine diesel oil and aviation fuel. It stores food and ammunition in 20-foot (6.1 m) containers.

Aotearoa has a Kelvin Hughes Integrated Naval Bridge System and is equipped with Farsounder-1000 sonar. For navigation radar sensors it uses SharpEye S and X-Band with an S-Band SharpEye sensor optimised for helicopter approach and control. It is armed with a Phalanx CIWS and two Mini Typhoon mounts and has a flight deck and hangar for helicopter operations.
Armenia State Revenue Committee chief receives Latvian State Revenue Service's Police Department delegation

CSTO Collective Security Council to discuss urgent security issues, Armenia PM to also attend meeting

Friendship group with India to soon be set up again in legislature, says Armenia parliament speaker

Toivo Klaar: Important to reduce tensions on border to contribute to better climate for negotiations

Turkey, Azerbaijan air forces holding joint military exercises

Zas: CSTO foreign and defense ministers councils next meeting will be held in Armenia

PACE regrets tragic humanitarian consequences of Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict

Russia deputy FM, Red Cross president discuss humanitarian situation in Nagorno-Karabakh

US does not consider Karabakh status issue resolved, says envoy to Armenia

US government to provide $9.5m to combat corruption in Armenia

Opposition Armenia Bloc holds meeting chaired by ex-President Kocharyan (PHOTOS)

Armenia Security Council chief: Azerbaijan policy is obviously provocative

Armenia Administrative Court terminates proceedings on case of army General Staff ex-chief vs. President, PM

Prosecution insists that Armenia 2nd president Kocharyans pretrial measure, amount of bail not be changed

5 new cases of coronavirus reported in Karabakh

Armenia President receives Russia counterparts special representative on international cultural cooperation

Armenia Police special forces apprehend fallen soldiers relative from outside government building

Xi Jinping denies personal meeting with Biden

Baku celebrates 'liberation' from Armenians

Survey: 48.4% of displaced Artsakh residents moved to Armenia (VIDEO)

756 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

World oil prices going up

Politico: European Commission chiefs classified speech found in trash

Armenia Court of Appeal continues considering appeal of case on ex-President Kocharyan, some other former officials

Biden: Extreme weather events will cost more than $100bn in damages this year

Newspaper: Armenia authorities agree to opposition proposal to hold parliament session on Goris-Kapan road issue

Newspaper: Armenia authorities send Karabakh Security Council chief as envoy to imprisoned opposition MP

Energy security expert: Artsakh economic growth averaged 10.5% since 2000

UN General Assembly 76th session kicks off in New York

Karabakh President's spokesperson: Azerbaijanis shoot in direction of Taghavard village, no victims

Armenia Investigative Committee: Battalion commander who was on-duty in Karabakh's Khtsaberd village is arrested

Trilateral MoC signed to raise level of seismic safety of Armenian Nuclear Power Plant to the highest level

Armenia opposition MP: Authorities didn't help Ombudsman prepare report on tortures of Armenian citizens in Baku

Hanged body of 44-year-old serviceman of Armenia MOD found in village

Armenia opposition MP slams parliamentary committee chairman's statement

Police apprehend armed student at Yerevan metro station

Azerbaijanis demand punishing Member of the Russian State Duma Vitaly Milonov

Armenia Parliament Deputy Speaker receives Russia President's Special Representative

Armenia President grants high state award to chess grandmaster Elina Danielyan

Armenia PM appoints deputy economy minister

Putin holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart

Armenia Supreme Judicial Council chairman on his relations with PM Nikol Pashinyan

Karabakh President meets with journalists and editors of country's Free Artsakh newspaper

US Embassy in Armenia to Baku: Only comprehensive solution can help normalize Armenian-Azerbaijani relations

Armenia President receives Slovakia FM

Armenia defense minister's mother dies

Armenia parliament's foreign relations committee chairman meets with Ukrainian MPs

Armenia Syunik Province governor meets with newly appointed US Deputy Ambassador

Monument to heroes who took revenge over Armenian Genocide organizers to be placed in Yerevan

Armenia Parliament Speaker receives Slovak Foreign and European Affairs Minister-led delegation

Digest: Protests being held in Yerevan, more on COVID-19 in Armenia

Yerevan mayor: Not going to resign

Dollar still going down in Armenia

Karabakh emergency situations service: Remains of 1 Armenian serviceman found in Varanda

Armenia Cassation Court has new judge

PACE recommends holding debates over Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Afghanistan situation

National Archives of Armenia and Iran to sign memorandum within scope of cooperation

Armenia PM, Gazprom Management Committee chairman discuss Armenian-Russian energy partnership

Armenia Deputy PM participates in session of Eurasian Economic Commission's Council

Police apprehend Yerevan neighborhood resident on hunger, water strike

Armenia Ambassador to Ukraine: Aim of intergovernmental commission is to take steps to unblock communication

Deceased serviceman's little brother born at medical center in Armenia's Etchmiadzin

Taliban denies war crimes charges against human rights defenders

Armenia PM, Slovakia FM discuss Karabakh peace process

Criminal case opened into death of Armenia soldier, another one receiving gunshot wounds

Biden: You either keep Gavin Newsom as your governor or you'll get Donald Trump

Armenia Investigative Committee former chair, ex-Prosecutor Generals arrest appealed

4 of Yerevan neighborhood residents protesting outside city hall apprehended

Frances Macron makes social media post in Armenian

Iran ambassador tries to discuss, with Azerbaijan presidential aide, demarche against Iranian trucks in Armenia

4 new cases of coronavirus reported in Artsakh

US and EU urge global community to cut methane emissions by 30%

Ukraine official: We have always considered Armenia as important partner in South Caucasus

US, Japan and South Korea discuss new North Korean missile tests

Yerevan neighborhood residents close off street adjacent to city hall

Armenia Central Bank raises refinancing rate by 0.25 percentage point

Appeal filed against court decision to arrest mayor of Armenias Goris

25,000 doses of coronavirus vaccine sent by France arrives in Yerevan

Armenia FM informs visiting Slovakia colleague about Azerbaijan provocations

Armenia ruling partys parliamentary faction holding closed meeting

Armenia MOD confirms: There is also wounded soldier in tragic incident at the military outpost

Slovakia FM: Process of returning Armenian captives from Azerbaijan must continue

US intends to invite Russia and China to international summit on COVID-19 fight

Armenia legislature elects Corruption Prevention Commission new member

657 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Karen Vardanyan has allocated 105 million AMD to rescue the Yerevan Botanical Garden

Armenia MOD: Army representatives will observe Russia-Belarus joint military exercise

ArmLur.am: New details become known from tragic incident at Armenia military outpost

China to start cooperation with Singapore on drug development

Armenia to assume CSTO chairmanship on Thursday

Google fines $ 177 million by South Korea's antitrust regulator

Yerevan neighborhood resident on hunger strike declares water strike too

Slovakia FM visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan (PHOTOS)

Armenia MOD: Reserve sergeant receives fatal gunshot wound

Armenian historical sites in Djulfa, Nakhichevan, elsewhere in Azerbaijan systematically erased

Armenia parliament continues regular sessions

Newspaper: Armenia authorities ready to offer deal to Investigative Committee former head, ex-Prosecutor General

Newspaper: Opposition Armenia bloc itself to not run in upcoming local elections

Armenia ombudsman: Azerbaijan police base, barricades, cameras on Vorotan road must be removed immediately

Armenia PM receives French Co-Chair of OSCE Minsk Group, paths for Karabakh conflict settlement discussed
YEREVAN.  Hraparak daily of the Republic of Armenia (RA) writes: Relations between the Russian peacekeepers stationed in Artsakh [(Nagorno-Karabakh)] and the Azerbaijanis are becoming increasingly tense. In recent times, the Azerbaijanis have been provoking on a daily basisthey block the road in the Shushi [city] section, violate the ceasefire regime by opening random fire, sometimes in the direction of [the Artsakh capital] Stepanakert, too.

According to Artsakh sources, the Azerbaijani side is provoking in a planned way, trying to show that they are in charge of the situation, the peacekeepers are temporary and do not establish peace [in the region]. According to our source, the Artsakh and RA authoritieswhich do not respond to these provocations, do not issue messages about [the Azerbaijanis] violating the ceasefire, do not send notes [of protest], do not draw the attention of the international community to the incidentsgive them [i.e., the Azerbaijanis] a green light.

Recently, the Azerbaijanis have concentrated equipment at the beginning of the road to Shushi, as if they are building the road. The road leading to Stepanakert was closed for several hours, the news reached the [Russian] peacekeepers. Rustam Muradov [i.e., the commander of these peacekeepers] contacted the Azerbaijani patrol, who replied that, So we are doing. Isn't it our road? We will do whatever we want. Muradov sent 2 BTRs [i.e., armored personnel carriers] to the "scene of the incident," and instructed to destroy the Azerbaijani equipment. They did so; they pushed, threw the tractor that blocked the road into the gorge.

Let us remind that Muradov's period of service [in the aforesaid capacity] has ended, according to our information, he will be replaced by Major General Mikhail Kosobokov.
The Azerbaijani Armed Forces action are intensive due to impunity. This is what Human Rights Defender of Armenia Arman Tatoyan said in response to a question from deputy of the opposition Armenia bloc of the National Assembly of Armenia Aregnaz Manukyan during a working discussion hosted by the Standing Committee on Human Rights and Public Affairs today.

According to the Ombudsman, the Azerbaijanis clearly see that they wont be punished no matter what they do. The Armenian authorities have only been encouraging such behavior since the end of the war. One thing is clear  the Azerbaijanis wont calm down so long as Armenia lacks reliable mechanisms and security guarantees, he emphasized.
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YEREVAN. - Within the framework of the Fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments being held in Vienna, speaker Alen Simonyan of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia on Wednesday met with speaker Andreas Norlen of the Swedish Riksdag (parliament), the NA press service informed.

Simonyan stressed that Sweden is an important and reliable partner for Armenia.

Both sides noted that in recent years the Armenia-Sweden interparliamentary cooperation is at a qualitatively new phase, and NA speaker assured that the new Armenian parliament, headed by him, will continue to implement all the agreements aimed at deepening the cooperation.

Reflecting on Armenia-Sweden cooperation within the international parliamentary platforms, Simonyan emphasized the adoption of positive and peace-promoting positions by the Swedish parliamentarians on sensitive issues for Armenia.

The speaker of the Armenian legislature lauded the support of Sweden to the democratic processes being carried out in Armenia, and thanked for the program aimed at the development of the capacities of the NA

Touching upon the cooperation with Sweden in the format of Armenia-European Union (EU) relations, Alen Simonyan highlighted the full and effective implementation of the Armenia-EU Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, noting that Armenia expects Sweden's assistance in this matter.

The speaker of the Swedish Riksdag, in turn, warmly recalled his visit to Armenia. He highlighted the fact that after the 44-day Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh) war last fall, Armenia did not draw back from the path of democracy. Referring to the snap parliamentary elections in Armenia on June 20, Norlen congratulated the head of Armenias legislature on holding these elections at a high level.

Also, Andreas Norlen expressed readiness to make every effort to develop Armenia-Sweden cooperationand not only within the framework of bilateral, but also Armenia-EU cooperation.

The interlocutors touched also upon the current phase in the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, stating that the peaceful settlement of this conflict shall take place on the basis of the respective recommendations by the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and the well-known agreed principles. In addition, Armenian NA speaker presented information on the work being carried out on the issues of returning the Armenian prisoners of war being detained by Azerbaijan, and asked his Swedish counterpart to assist in the return of these detainees to Armenia as soon as possible.
Story Highlights 18% are worried about being laid off, down from 27% in 2020

23% are worried about wages being reduced, down from 28%

Workers who are non-White and have less education worry more

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Significantly fewer U.S. workers than a year ago are worried about a series of possible job setbacks, though more remain worried today than in 2019, before the coronavirus pandemic. This includes concerns about being laid off (18%), having work hours cut (20%), or having pay (23%) or benefits (27%) reduced.

U.S. Workers' Worries About Possible Job Setbacks Next, please indicate whether you are worried or not worried about each of the following happening to you, personally, in the near future. (% Worried) 2019 2020 2021 % % % That you will be laid off 15 27 18 That your hours at work will be cut back 15 27 20 That your wages will be reduced 16 28 23 That your benefits will be reduced 23 30 27 Results based on U.S. adults employed full or part time Gallup

These results are from Gallup's annual Work and Education survey, conducted Aug. 2-17.

The 2019 figures were among the lowest Gallup has measured in this trend that dates back to 1997, while the 2020 figures were among the highest. Historically, worker anxiety has been greater when the economy and job market were threatened, and lower when they were healthy.

In addition to the rise in worry last year amid the pandemic, an elevated percentage of workers were worried between 2009 and 2013, when unemployment was high and the recovery from the Great Recession was sluggish. The peaks in concern about layoffs (31%) and benefits cuts (46%) occurred in 2009, while the other areas of concern hit their high points in 2011.

In contrast, the low points were in 2019 or between 2005 and 2007, before the Great Recession.

Series of line graphs showing trends in the percentage of U.S. workers who are worried about being laid off, having their work hours cut back, having their wages reduced or having their benefits reduced. Worry about all of these possible job setbacks was relatively low before the Great Recession, when it spiked. Worry began to recede in 2014 and was at or near low points in 2019, before spiking in 2020, and receding this year, but not back to 2019 levels.

Worry About Job Loss Due to Technology, Offshoring Relatively Muted

The poll also finds that 15% of U.S. workers say they are worried about their job becoming obsolete because of advances in technology, while 11% worry about their company moving jobs to countries overseas.

Gallup did not ask these items in the 2020 survey but has asked them in other years. The figures have not varied much over time, with an average of 15% since 2017 worried about technology making their job obsolete, and an average of 10% since 2003 worried about their company moving jobs to a different country.

Worry about all six job setbacks measured in the survey is higher among workers without a college degree than among those with one. Non-White workers are also more inclined than White workers to express worry. Younger workers are more likely than older workers to worry about having their hours cut or their benefits reduced, while there are no meaningful age differences on the other items.

U.S. Workers' Worries About Possible Job Setbacks, by Age, Education and Race/Ethnicity Next, please indicate whether you are worried or not worried about each of the following happening to you, personally, in the near future. (% Worried) Layoffs Hours cut Wages cut Benefits cut Job obsolete Job moved overseas % % % % % % Age 18-44 18 25 22 30 18 12 45+ 16 15 23 23 13 8 Education College degree 9 11 17 21 7 8 No college degree 25 27 27 32 22 12 Race/Ethnicity White workers 13 12 16 24 9 7 Non-White workers 28 36 36 33 28 18 Results based on U.S. adults employed full or part time Gallup

Working men and women generally exhibit similar levels of worry on each item.

Bottom Line

American workers are less worried about a variety of adverse job outcomes than they were last year, but they are still more worried than before the pandemic shook the economy. While the unemployment rate remains higher than it was before the pandemic, it has come down from the spring of 2020 when many businesses were shut down. The jobs recovery has been uneven, with weaker job growth in August after strong months in June and July.

The job market is currently more favorable to workers than employers, with many employers struggling to fill job vacancies. Notably, there are more job vacancies available than there are unemployed workers. The next few months will be telling for the job market as enhanced federal unemployment benefits expired on Monday, which may force reluctant workers back into the job market. However, the cutoff in benefits comes at a time when COVID-19 cases are high and the risk of infection may cause workers to stay home even if it means trying to live off less unemployment compensation.

To stay up to date with the latest Gallup News insights and updates, follow us on Twitter.

Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works.

View complete question responses and trends (PDF download).
Kennesaw States country study program to spotlight Greece

KENNESAW, Ga. (Sep 9, 2021)  Kennesaw State Universitys Annual Country Study Program returns in 2021-2022 with a yearlong celebration of Greeces culture and history.

A staple of KSUs Division of Global Affairs, the program spotlights a country or region with a variety of activities and events to enhance awareness, interest and understanding of the world. The Year of Greece schedule includes a grand opening celebration, scholarly presentations, panel discussions and a two-day symposium on Greek history and culture.

Kennesaw States faculty demonstrate tremendous dedication to providing international education inside and outside of the classroom, and the Annual Country Study Program is an important component of that, said Sheb True, interim associate vice provost for the Division of Global Affairs. We want to continue to broaden the experiences and opportunities that prepare students to succeed in todays increasingly global environment.

Coinciding with the bicentennial of Greeces independence, KSUs Year of Greece will have its grand opening on Sept. 15 at The Commons dining hall on the Kennesaw Campus. Free Year of Greece T-shirts will be given out and The Commons will serve Greek dishes along with an accompanying description of the food and its historical connection to Greece.

The many Year of Greece events also will include:

The Paradox of Freedom, Oct. 14  Discussion by noted Harvard anthropologist Michael Herzfeld on the cultural and political tools utilized during the Greek War of Independence

Greek Economy and Sustainability Models, Oct. 21  Panel discussion on Greek and Greek-American contributions to business

Opera Scenes from Greek Mythology, Nov. 11  Pre-recorded recital of students performing opera scenes from Greek mythology, followed by a discussion of Greek mythologys role in opera

First spring semester event, Jan. 10-15  Stingers dining hall on the Marietta Campus will feature Greek food along with Greek-themed art

Greek Businesses in Atlanta, Feb. 17  Discussion of Greeces impact on the restaurant business in Atlanta, with Greek food provided by Atlanta-area restaurants

Greek history and culture symposium, March 23-24  Activities, poster presentations and panels featuring national scholars as well as KSU faculty and students discussing their research

The extensive Year of Greece program draws upon the knowledge and expertise of faculty, staff and students, as well as the large Greek-American community that we have in metro Atlanta, said Todd Harper, the Division of Global Affairs faculty fellow for the Annual Country Study Program. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage all of us.

 Paul Floeckher

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 41,000 students. With 11 colleges on two metro Atlanta campuses, Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia and the second-largest university in the state. The universitys vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the region and from 126 countries across the globe. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 6 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.
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If youre more than ready for a vacation but youre more than a bit anxious about traveling while the Delta variant rages, join the club. Plenty of people are waiting, travel credit card in hand, for the virus to finally pass  but the near future is uncertain. Planning a trip takes time, and waiting indefinitely to book a flight is a bad way to start building an itinerary.

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The good news is, most of the top airlines have some kind of policy that allows passengers to book now knowing that theyll be able to change or cancel their flight should the situation evolve before theyre set to travel. Some policies are fairly narrow and restrictive, others are quite generous and many are in between.

As most airlines have been updating their fees and policies throughout the pandemic, you'll want to be sure to double-check before you book. To help you get started, GOBankingRates has compiled the highlights from the top 10 airline booking policies.

Last updated: Sept. 8, 2021

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Alaska Airlines

If you booked your travel on or before April 30 with travel dates between Feb. 27, 2020, and March 31, 2022, you can change or even cancel your ticket for free. For tickets purchased on or after May 1, Alaska Airlines has eliminated the change fee only. Its all part of the Peace of Mind waiver, which requires you to book your new travel dates within one year of the original travel dates. There are several conditions and exceptions, which Alaska lays out on a page dedicated to the topic on its site.

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American Airlines

American does not allow changes or offer refunds for basic economy fares purchased on or after April 1. The company, however, has eliminated all change fees on all other domestic, short-haul international and even some long-haul international flights. That includes main cabin, premium economy and premium cabin. For tickets purchases on or after Aug. 31, 2020, change fees are waived for main cabin, premium economy, first-class and business class tickets for all domestic and short-haul international flights.

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Delta

Flyers can change basic economy tickets that were purchased after April 31 for travel in 2021 thanks to the 2021 Basic Economy Changeability Waiver. Otherwise, you would have to change basic economy tickets within 24 hours of purchase or lose the opportunity forever. There are a few conditions, the most important of which is that your new travel dates must begin no later than Dec. 31, 2022. There are never any change fees for flights in the main cabin fare category or above on flights originating from North America.

Research: The Best and Worst Airlines for Cheap Flights

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Frontier

Frontier has periodically updated its change/cancellation policies every few months from the outset of the pandemic. Most recently, the airline extended its waiver to Sept. 30, the new deadline to book travel for 2021 without worrying about changing your mind later. Its free to change and reschedule 60 days or more before your departure date, $49 between 59 and seven days out, and $79 for cancellations and changes six or fewer days from your departure date.

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Chad Slattery / Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian eliminated change fees for premium and main cabin flights in September 2020. Most recently, the airline extended its fee waiver from Aug. 16 to Oct. 31. Now, as long as you purchase your tickets by the end of October, you can change your flight for travel on or after Aug. 17, provided that you fly by the time your tickets expire. The exemption is for main cabin basic and its important to know that fare rate changes might apply.

Find Out: How To Save Money on Rental Cars for Your Upcoming Trip

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JetBlue

At the end of August, JetBlue updated its guidelines to allow no-fee changes and cancellations on new Blue Basic flights booked between Aug. 25 and Oct. 31. When you rebook, its unclear exactly which flights and dates are available for rebooking, only that you may do so on any flight through the end of our schedule, according to JetBlues travel alerts page.

Helpful: 13 Insider Secrets From Travel Agents That Will Save You Money

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Southwest

From its early days as a pioneering low-cost disruptor, Southwest has always stood out for its unique customer-centric policies. One is its generous free checked baggage allowance. Another is its longstanding policy of not charging a change fee, a move that gave Southwest a reputation as one of the most flexible airlines in the industry long before COVID-19. You can even cancel your flight outright without charge -- in this case, Wanna Get Away fares (nonrefundable tickets) can be applied to future travel.

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Spirit Air

At Spirit, flyers can change their flights for free up to 60 days before their travel dates. After that, the change fee follows a tiered structure:

15-59 days out: $39

7-14 days out: $59

0-6 days out: $79

You can purchase extra flexibility with the Spirit Airlines Flight Flex program, which lets you modify your itinerary up to 24 hours before your flight.

Find Out: Things You Can Get For Free in Every State

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United Airlines

United Airlines has a good policy that lets most flyers change for free. The companys change fee waiver applies to basic economy tickets that were issued between March 3, 2020-April 30, 2021, as well as between May 1, 2021-Dec. 31, 2021. All tickets must be for travel starting between Aug. 11 and Dec. 31, 2021. The waiver also applies to standard fare tickets issued between March 3, 2020-Sept. 30, 2021.

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Virgin Atlantic

Boasting one of the most generous policies in the industry, Virgin lets all customers change all flights across all fares for travel commencing on or before April 30, 2022. On top of that, you can change your dates more than once  as often as you like, in fact  and transfer your ticket to someone else or even change your destination. As long as you make the changes before your original departure and complete your travel by April 2023, youre good to go.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Airlines With Flexible Booking Policies
Sep. 9Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital is one of 21 hospitals around the state which will be receiving help from the Kentucky National Guard to help with COVID-19 efforts.

LCRH CEO Robert Parker said the need for the help was due to staffing shortages.

"Like most facilities in our region and across the state, Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital is experiencing significant staffing shortages in certain departments as we continue to manage a high volume of patients and diligently search for qualified candidates for these openings," Parker said. "In coordination with the Kentucky Department for Public Health, fifteen service men and women from the National Guard will arrive at our facility early next week to help alleviate staffing pressure by assisting with non-clinical duties for the next thirty-one days. We are extremely grateful to these individuals for their service and support, as we work together to fight the coronavirus and continue our mission of Making Communities Healthier."

Governor Andy Beshear made the announcement Thursday, saying the Guard members will help with nonclinical functions within the selected hospitals to allow hospital staff to focus on patient care.

310 Guard members will join the 100 who are already on duty at three hospitals already receiving help.

Along with LCRH, CHI Saint Joseph Health in London, Baptist Health Hospital in Corbin and Rockcastle Regional Hospital in Mount Vernon will also receive the assistance.

"This shows that every hospital is bursting at the seams, that they desperately need help and that we are a state full of more desperately sick people than we have ever seen," said Gov. Beshear. "I believe this is the largest deployment of the Guard in this crisis health care situation in our history. Every time we've asked, they've stepped up and served us so proudly."

Brig. Gen. Bryan Howay, director of the joint staff, Kentucky National Guard, added. "Supporting this critical mission impacts our service members as well since we're part of the same communities we're assisting. While our mission is temporary, it serves to highlight the importance of wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and most importantly, getting vaccinated."

During an update, Beshear said that 60 out of Kentucky's 96 hospitals currently have critical staffing shortages, and that there are only 90 available adult intensive care beds throughout the commonwealth, to lowest it has been during the pandemic.
(Photo: Illustration:Rebecca Zisser/HuffPost; Photos: Getty)

From the moment the 9/11 Memorial Museum opened in the spring of 2014, the scathing criticisms and reviews began rolling in.

As then-BuzzFeed News editor Steve Kandell, whose sister died on Sept. 11, described in The Worst Day Of My Life Is Now New Yorks Hottest Tourist Attraction, the museum was the logical endpoint for our most reliably commodifiable national tragedy.

Washington Post art critic Philip Kennicott wrote that the museum experience isnt history, its spectacle, plunging visitors into a hellish descent into a dark place, where a tape loop of death and destruction is endlessly playing on every television screen in America.

Other reporters, critics and early visitors similarly pointed to a bevy of problems: the commercialism of the museum, the Islamophobic rhetoric in the museums discussions of terrorism and its few attempts to provide context to the events of 9/11.

Visiting the museum now, its clear these public criticisms had little effect on the museum, and not much has changed in seven years. The museum is built around remnants of the original World Trade Center towers, giving visitors an intensely physical and tactile experience. Displays and placards emphasize the towers majesty and architectural ingenuity. Using eyewitness reports, artifacts, and video and audio footage, the centerpiece of the museums historical exhibition recreates the morning of 9/11, down to the minute. With just cursory mentions of 9/11s complicated legacy  the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the U.S. as a surveillance state, Islamophobia and racism, the chronic health problems of 9/11 first responders, among many other issues  there are very few moments of confronting uncomfortable truths.

The inside of the National 9/11 Memorial Museum in New York, United States, on Oct. 12, 2017. On the left is the

It results in an overly simplistic and uncritical narrative, promoting an excessive sense of patriotism and nationalism  ironically, much like what happened immediately after 9/11 itself. As the 20th anniversary approaches, the museum is facing an existential crisis and financial woes due to its reliance on tourists. (The controversies surrounding the museums planning process are also the subject of a divisive new documentary.) Several scholars who have studied the museum and other kinds of memorial museums told HuffPost the museum is full of crucial problems, like its lack of context. There are also contradictions in its approach, such as trying to appear apolitical while, intentionally or not, presenting visitors with a highly political narrative, and seeming to be torn between its dual roles as a memorial and historical museum.

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Theres a hypersensitivity to what kinds of statements the museum can make because it is also a memorial museum, said Marita Sturken, professor of media, culture and communication at New York University. So that really constrains what it can do as an institution, in part because it feels very beholden to family members. Many, but not all, feel a sense of ownership there. So I think that is really the fundamental basis for its timidity as an institution to make sense of the event itself, because part of making sense of that event is also to show how the people who were killed that day, their memory was marshaled into two devastating and brutal wars. And thats obviously a very painful, difficult issue.

For many scholars, the museums most problematic aspects originate from its focus on the day itself, with relatively few areas that contextualize the events.

I think that the creators were trying to avoid politicizing and historicizing 9/11 by really focusing on the day. But it created this highly political and historicizing experience, said Amy Sodaro, associate professor of sociology at the Borough of Manhattan Community College. This really intense focus on the minutes and the hours of 9/11 ends up kind of giving no bigger context, and so, avoids all of the difficult questions and problems and issues that 9/11 has raised.

In response to these criticisms over the years, the museums leaders have explained that its primarily meant as a place for visitors to remember the lives lost and bear witness, a message thats also emphasized throughout the museum. Before the pandemic, the museum supplemented its physical exhibitions with public panel discussions and other events delving into 9/11s legacy (and during the pandemic, those events have been virtual). But the scholars say that approach is insufficient because that programming wont reach the bulk of museum visitors: tourists who will likely only visit the museum once for a couple of hours. Instead, the museum has an imperative to provide much more of that context in its permanent and physical collection.

I worry that busloads of young students come and go to the museum leaving with a sense of the horror of 9/11 but little to no opportunities for historical, contextualized, nuanced conversations about the terror attacks.Tamara Issak, assistant professor at St. John's University and author of "How Does It Feel to be a Problem at the 9/11 Museum?"

The sections of the museum that focus on the political context of the attacks frame terrorism as a simplistic us vs. them issue and emphasize Americans unity and solidarity in the immediate aftermath of 9/11. In addition, there are only brief mentions of the Islamophobic and racist attacks that Muslim Americans, Sikh Americans, and Americans of Middle Eastern, North African and South Asian descent faced after 9/11.

The museum also does little to differentiate between the violent extremists who perpetrated the attacks and Islam itself. Consequently, it creates a harmful conflation of terrorism with Muslim identity  a theme that Tamara Issak, assistant professor at St. Johns University, has documented in her research, including in a paper entitled How Does It Feel to be a Problem at the 9/11 Museum?

The individual parts of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum brought together make a persuasive whole that presents a very particular narrative of Sept. 11 that, intentionally or not, stereotypes Muslims, she wrote in an email.

In addition,the museums focus on individual stories and eyewitness accounts has actually turned them all into one overarching narrative, which inadvertently tells visitors how to feel and respond, said Sarah Senk, associate professor of culture and communication at California State University Maritime Academy.

Ive argued in something Ive written that its less about education and more about indoctrination, Senk said. There are these signs that say: WE INVITE YOU and its, like, in all-caps. When I saw them the first time, I was just imagining the Uncle Sam poster.

What does never forget mean after 9/11  how on Earth do we forget something that 2 billion people saw live, captured on camera, and something thats been disseminated on this unimaginable scale? I think this is why I think 9/11 as a particular event fascinates me over other events.Sarah Senk, associate professor of culture and communication at California State University Maritime Academy

Senks research at the museum has focused on two interactive portions: a digital guestbook and a recording studio (both now suspended due to the pandemic) for visitors to share their responses to the museum and their own 9/11 stories. Some of those messages have been featured in prominent areas of the museum.

On the face of it, if you go in, it looks like its this really democratic thing, where its inviting everybody to offer their testimony, she said. The goal was to not have a history by the victor narrative. The goal was actually to have this dialogic museum where the description and the feelings about events could change over time, and they would keep recording that and keep adding it to the collection.

Yet, over the many times she has visited the museum for her research, she noticed that the testimonies never really changed.

Even when you have this endless collection, it doesnt necessarily mean that youre going to get nondominant accounts of the story  and especially if the museum itself is structuring, like, what youre feeling for you, without you knowing it.

As a result, the act of remembering turns into this really political thing, where its like, youre a good citizen, youre a good person  if you come here and remember in a certain way, she said.

Inside of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. (Photo: Roberto Machado Noa via Getty Images)

According to Issak, the museums audio tour similarly presents visitors with a particular story, even though the tour is at pains to create a full-circle narrative of Sept. 11.

The narration is more focused on imparting a sense of closure than a sense of historical context, she said.

When asked if there were other comparable examples or models for the 9/11 Museum to follow, Sturken explained its not unusual for museums to combine memorial and historical elements. But the 9/11 Museum is unusual in doing it on such a grand scale and making it a commercial enterprise.

Sodaro said she has been impressed by the National Memorial for Peace and Justice and The Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama, which tells the story from slavery all the way up to mass incarceration today and really leaves you with the understanding that the legacy is ongoing.

That, to me, is one of not very many examples of memorial museums that I can think of that do a really good job in connecting the past to present and showing visitors the ongoing reverberations of the past, she said.

For the most part, the scholars had a hard time pointing to an equivalent example. And some of them posited that it may be uniquely challenging to encapsulate 9/11 in a museum because it was such a singular and highly public event.

When you think about things like Holocaust Remembrance Day, theres a clear-cut message about never forgetting or never again, Senk said. And its also about remembering events for which a lot of material evidence was destroyed. So what does never forget mean after 9/11  how on Earth do we forget something that 2 billion people saw live, captured on camera, and something thats been disseminated on this unimaginable scale? I think this is why I think 9/11 as a particular event fascinates me over other events.

Similarly, Sodaro said that in other memorial museums she has studied, most of them focus on these violent pasts that were long and unfolding and, you know, in many cases, attempted to be hidden. By contrast, 9/11 was so spectacularly public.

Some of the scholars said the museums creators could have benefited from waiting longer to build it. But they also concluded it was probably impossible, given both the scale of 9/11 as an event and the high-profile process of developing the museum.

As Sodaro observed, by being billed as a national museum, from the start, it was tasked with telling the official story and having to navigate and negotiate with all of these different stakeholders, she said. I think the smaller the museum, the more grassroots it is, the better they usually are at addressing the difficult tasks and making connections to the present in ways that make people really uncomfortable.

Twenty years later, its increasingly more imperative for the museum to confront uncomfortable truths.

I worry that busloads of young students come and go to the museum leaving with a sense of the horror of 9/11 but little to no opportunities for historical, contextualized, nuanced conversations about the terror attacks, Issak said.

Several of the scholars suggested it may be exceedingly difficult for the museum to change, given its current financial situation  and because adding complexity would be incompatible with the museums existing patriotic narrative and circumscribed timeline.

If you say, OK, lets go back to the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Lets go back to U.S. investment in Saudi Arabia, each step backwards really produces a narrative that is much more complicit. Its not about some innocent nation that was attacked out of the blue, Sturken said. The museum has a very patriotic, uncritical stand, so in a certain sense, it cant coexist with a historical analysis that looks at the complicity of the nation, before and then after.

A video of former president Barack Obama shows on a monitor at the exhibition

Its telling that currently, the museums special exhibition is about the 2011 U.S. military raid that killed Osama bin Laden. The tone of the exhibit sometimes takes on that of an adventure novel, detailing the strategies of the military and intelligence officials involved. At the end of the exhibit, theres a video of talking-head interviews with various U.S. officials, ending with former President Barack Obama talking about the ingenuity of the mission, as if to tie it all up in one tidy package.

Its indicative of how the museum in general handles most of its content that isnt directly about the morning of 9/11. The sections of the museum focused on the aftermath of 9/11 get more and more surface-level as they move forward in time. For example, theres a lot of detail about the excavation and recovery efforts in 2001 and 2002, but much less detail for more recent events. As visitors leave the historical exhibition area, one of the last displays is a wall of examples of 9/11 commemoration efforts around the world, up to 2011 and 2012. All of these point visitors toward neat answers, rather than impart the more complicated reality: that the legacy of 9/11 will be long and continue to evolve.

How do you remember something still unfolding? Its such a great question, and I think for me, thats the dilemma of, like, 21st century commemoration and how it differs from some of the earlier events, Senk said.

The dilemma of time is one that not only the museum, but also our culture at large has to address, Sturken said.

How do we, in general, as a nation and society, define the timeline of this event? she said. If were just going to define it as this one spectacular, tragic day, then we will learn nothing from it. It should be one of the goals of such an institution that people come away from it having to learn something beyond that it was a tragic loss of life.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 World Trade Center attacks. (AFP)

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, which saw terrorists take control of planes over the US and turn them into deadly weapons.

Shortly before 9am, New York was turned into a scene of devastation after two planes smashed into the World Trade Center buildings.

In the 20 years since the attacks, the skyline of New York has changed, wars have been waged and Khalid Sheikh Mohammed  the principal architect behind the plot  has been captured and detained.

Terrorists also attacked the Pentagon in Washington DC, while those on board United 93 were thought to have been targeting either the White House or the Capitol before passengers decided to act and the plane came down before it reached the US capital.

But it was the images from the World Trade Center that are the most closely associated with a day that will never be forgotten.

The World Trade Center was one of the most recognisable parts of the Manhattan skyline. (Library of Congress)

When did 9/11 happen?

On Tuesday, 11 September 2001, 19 al-Qaeda terrorists boarded several planes with a mission to kill as many people as possible.

American Airlines Flight 11 was the first plane to reach its target, hitting the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 8.46am.

There were mixed reports as it was at first believed by some that a small private plane had hit the tower by accident but less than 20 minutes later, it was obvious that a terror attack was taking place as United Airlines Flight 175 smashed into the South Tower of the twin towers at 9.03am.

Watch: 9/11 terror attacks 20 years on

Away from New York, American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon at 9.37am, and authorities were alarmed about United Airlines Flight 93, which was not responding to air traffic control and had veered off course.

Orders had been given to shoot the plane down if necessary, with concerns that it was aiming to crash into the White House or the Capitol in Washington DC.

But the plane crashed on the ground near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, at 10.03am after passengers and crew attempted to seize control from hijackers before the terrorists rolled the plane over and flew it into the ground.

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How many people died?

The 9/11 attacks remain the deadliest terrorist attack in history, resulting in a total of 2,977 deaths, while all 19 hijackers were also killed.

The vast majority of deaths occurred in New York, with 2,606 people killed either inside the World Trade Center or on the ground below.

An emergency vehicle fights a fire at the Pentagon in Washington, DC, hours after a hijacked airplane crashed into the Pentagon. (AFP)

At the Pentagon, 125 people were killed while all 39 civilians on board United 93 were killed when it crashed into a field.

Over 90 countries lost citizens in all the attacks, including 67 from the UK  the most non-US deaths in the 9/11 attacks.

Smoke rises behind investigators as they comb the crater left by the crash of United Airlines flight 93 near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. (Reuters)

Ground Zero

In the aftermath of 9/11, the World Trade Center site became known as Ground Zero, which stretched over an area of 14.6 acres.

The twin towers were one of the most recognisable building of the Manhattan skyline and the outline radically changed after the buildings fell.

An aerial view shows only a small portion of the crime scene where the World Trade Center collapsed following 9/11. (Getty)

The setting sun reflects off the windows of One World Trade Center in New York City, build to replace the original buildings. (Getty)

Hundreds of thousands of tonnes of debris had to be cleared following the attacks, while it took years to identify victims from body parts discovered at the site.

Plans to rebuild the World Trade Center were put in place soon after 9/11 and 20 years later, several new structures have been put in place  the most visible being One World Trade Center, a 1,776 feet (541 metres) skyscraper that is the tallest building in the US.

Osama Bin Laden attending a meeting with a Kalashnikov on his lap in an undisclosed place inside Afghanistan. (AFP/Getty)

Osama Bin Laden

While Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is regarded as the principal architect of the 9/11 attacks, it is al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden who is most widely identified with the plot.

After becoming president in 1992, Bill Clinton made capturing Bin Laden a priority for the US following a series of attacks on US citizens at home and abroad.

However, it was 9/11 that ramped up the search to find him and a $25m reward was offered for information that led to the capture or killing of the terrorist leader.

A week after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, front pages of Newsday and the New York Daily News with the faces of Osama bin Laden and 'Wanted' headlines. (Getty)

Bin Ladens whereabouts were a subject of confusion, with reports of him hiding out in mountains in caves in Afghanistan proving not to be fruitful, while it was also claimed he was attempting to avoid capture in neighbouring Pakistan.

For years the searches turned up nothing but US intelligence agencies finally tracked him down to a secure compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan, in 2011.

The house was raided by SEAL Team Six on 2 May, 2011, and Bin Laden was killed inside  nearly 10 years after the 9/11 attacks took place.

Watch: 9/11 survivor recounts remarkable escape from World Trade Center
WASHINGTON  President Biden acknowledged on Thursday evening that he and many other vaccinated Americans are frustrated with the 80 million Americans who have declined immunization against the coronavirus. The needless ravages caused by the Delta variant, he said, were frustrating to watch, repeating a word that seemed to signal the evenings theme.

The president blamed governors playing pandemic politics by resisting mask mandates and downplaying the power of vaccines for prolonging the pandemic.

Weve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin, he said in a speech from the White House, making clear that he blamed the unvaccinated for the current surge in the U.S. And your refusal has cost all of us.

The spring was marked by vaccine incentives, including guns and beer. The summer saw the rise of mandates, including from the president and some governors. Now it is fall, and a level of exasperation has set in. Only 53.4 percent of Americans are vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, giving the coronavirus plenty of opportunities to spread.

The president did virtually nothing to disguise his dismay on Thursday, his own mood mirroring that of many Americans. Schools are closed once again, and the economic recovery is faltering, too. At one point during his remarks, Biden leaned against his podium in the State Dining Room of the White House and, in his trademark stage whisper, addressed the unvaccinated directly: What more do you need to see? he asked, apparently referencing the rampant misinformation about the safety and efficacy of vaccines that has prompted millions to refuse inoculations.

President Biden speaks in the State Dining Room at the White House on Thursday. (Andrew Harnik/AP Photo)

Much like the speech he recently gave on the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Biden's Thursday address was raw with emotion, seeming to show the most powerful elected official in the world confronting the limits of his power. The Biden administration concluded last spring that it did not have the authority to enforce a national vaccine requirement. Some believe that calculation was mistaken, and that the federal government should have been putting more pressure on the unvaccinated all along. Now the president faces the prospect of a surge that could last for months, since the arrival of cold weather will drive people indoors, where the virus spreads much more easily.

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Were in a tough stretch, and it could last for a while, the president admitted. He returned time and again to blame the unvaccinated for the nations current predicament, arguing that the holdouts can cause a lot of damage  and they are. It was not, in other words, a happy speech, an announcement of benchmarks met or exceeded, of triumphs collected at the expense of a seemingly intractable foe. The Delta variant has relegated such sunny pronouncements to a distant memory, rolling back the progress Biden made during the first several months of his administration.

In recent weeks, the Biden administration has faced criticism that it was too quick to declare victory over the coronavirus earlier this summer, even as it was becoming clear that the highly transmissible Delta variant was on its way. On the Fourth of July, President Biden held a party on the South Lawn of the White House, declaring that the country was on the cusp of independence from the virus.

That declaration appears to have been premature. The Delta variant has torn through Florida and Texas before more recently moving on to states like Idaho. The vast majority of the people who have become seriously ill have not been vaccinated, since the coronavirus vaccines are highly effective at preventing serious illness and death.

Other than to put the unvaccinated on notice, the purpose of Thursdays speech was the announcement of six measures intended to increase vaccination rates and hasten the end of the current surge, if not of the entire pandemic. The measures included, most notably, a requirement that all federal employees and contractors get vaccinated, with no exemptions.

Biden also called on the Department of Labor to issue a rule requiring all private businesses employing more than 100 people to mandate vaccinations for their workers, or to administer weekly testing for those who refuse. Hospitals that participate in the federal Medicaid and Medicare programs must also vaccinate their estimated 17 million employees.

Those actions alone, the administration believes, could result in the vaccination of as many as 100 million people, though it is not yet clear how the new orders will be enforced. Federal employees, for example, will have to attest to having been vaccinated. But they will not have to show proof of vaccination.

A sign warning that theatergoers must be vaccinated is posted at the entrance of Nighthawk Cinema on Wednesday in Brooklyn, N.Y. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The new measures also include a preparation for offering booster shots to recipients of the two-dose mRNA vaccines; the Pfizer vaccine, in particular, appears not to be as effective against Delta. Booster shots are nevertheless contingent on approval from the Food and Drug Administration, which has not yet been granted.

As soon as they are authorized, those eligible will be able to get a booster right away, Biden said, although he provided few details about the timing. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy had previously said that boosters would begin to be administered on Sept. 20, but it is not clear that Biden will be able to keep to that timeline.

In an effort to keep schools open, Biden also promised to reimburse school districts that have imposed mask mandates in contravention of the bans by Republican governors enjoining school districts not to make facial coverings mandatory. He also called on states to require vaccines for all school employees, which some Democratic governors have already done and which most Republican governors have declined to do.

Vaccination requirements in schools are nothing new, the president noted. They work.He added that employees of the federally funded early education Head Start program must also get their shots.

To shore up the economic recovery, Biden said his administration will increase the maximum amount small businesses can borrow from a COVID-related fund from $500,000 to $2 million. He also announced that he would use the Defense Production Act to boost production of rapid, at-home diagnostic tests, which some experts believe have been underused, as an effective means of detecting infections. Those tests, he said, will soon be widely available  at affordable prices  at major retailers such as Walmart and Kroger. The federal government will also increase shipments of monoclonal antibodies to states. The treatments can help people suffering from symptomatic COVID-19 illness and have been used widely in some states, such as Florida.

In addition, Biden said that the Transportation Safety Administration would double fines for people who refuse to mask. Scenes of passengers confronting and assaulting airline attendants who ask them to don facial coverings have gone viral on social media throughout the summer, adding an unwelcome new dimension to pandemic travel.

By the way, show some respect, the president said angrily to the instigators of such scenes. It was a message in keeping with the evenings tone, which alternated between prodding, recrimination and, last of all, the promise of better days ahead.

We have the tools, Biden said toward the end of his remarks. Now we just have to finish the job.

____

Read more from Yahoo News:
A former Afghan envoy to Washington blames Kabul's former government for the country's Taliban takeover, accusing them of widespread corruption.

That echoes sentiments from current and former U.S. officials for years.

Roya Rahmani served as the country's first female ambassador to the United States, leaving her post of three years in July.

In an interview in Washington D.C., she said that it was mismanagement by Afghanistan's leaders that led to the Taliban to take over so quickly.

"The US government has indicated that they were met by surprise. I, as an Afghan, was not surprised by the fact that the Taliban took over Afghanistan the way they did."

"It was the leadership that was corrupt. And they handed over basically the country to the Taliban and their actions led to that."

In particular she expressed disappointment at Ashraf Ghani for abandoning the presidency.

"That was the only thing that surprised me, in fact, that I had at least better expectation from him, and from him alone, not from his aides, because I could also see that the same way that he made all the other decisions, the same way that he outsourced the matter of the country just to his two aides or three aides, this would be the consequences."

Ghani said on Wednesday he left because he wanted to avoid bloodshed.

He denied allegations he stole millions of dollars on his way out.

Rahmani also warned of massive geopolitical shifts coming for Washington and its allies.

"I believe that the United States will be facing a new Pakistan with a different ability or leverage."

"The issue with the Indian Muslims, the relationship with China, with Turkey."

"Recently, you heard, we all heard this statement by one of the Taliban spokesperson speaking about Kashmir. That was the first statement of its kind."

The Taliban have vowed to be more tolerant compared to their last time ruling Afghanistan.

However, Rahmani cautioned that dark times lay ahead for women there.

She points to the Taliban's decision on Tuesday to exclude women from all top government positions.

Story continues

Women-led protests following that announcement were cut short after Taliban gunmen fired into the air to disperse the hundreds that rallied.

"I salute all the brave women of Afghanistan. It is quite risky to do what they are doing and it's also an indication to the rest of the world that they have everything to lose at this point."

END
The last member of Afghanistan's Jewish community has left the country following the Taliban takeover, an Israeli-American businessman who organized his evacuation told AFP Thursday.

Zebulon Simentov began his journey out of Afghanistan on Friday and arrived in a "neighboring country" Wednesday, said Moti Kahana, who runs a US-based private security firm.

For decades, Simentov refused to leave Afghanistan -- surviving a Soviet invasion, deadly civil war, brutal rule by the Taliban and the US-led occupation of his homeland.

Having already endured the Taliban's regime from 1996 to 2001, Simentov was reluctant to go when Kahana's security team arrived 10 days before his departure.

"At that time, he did not want to come out," said Kahana, who explained to Simentov that he was at risk of being killed by Islamic State-Khorasan militants.

"But he listened and I think he came to the conclusion himself," Kahana recalled.

Simentov asked Kahana if they could also take his "best friend" and their kids, so 29 neighbors joined him on the journey out.

Kahana said that Simentov has family in New York and plans to join them there soon, hopefully around the Yom Kippur holiday next week.

"He's definitely coming," Kahana added.

Born in the 1950s in the western city of Herat, Simentov moved to Kabul during the Soviet invasion in the early 1980s for the capital's then relative stability.

Over the decades, all Simentov's relatives left -- including his wife and two daughters.

But Simentov stayed put, despite the Taliban trying to convert him to Islam and imprisoning him four times.

He continued to mark Jewish new year Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur at Kabul's only synagogue.

"I have resisted. I have made the religion of Moses proud here," he told AFP during an interview earlier this year.

Jews lived in Afghanistan for more than 2,500 years, with tens of thousands once residing in Herat, where four synagogues still stand -- testimony to the community's ancient presence.

But they have steadily left the country since the 19th century, with many now living in Israel.

pdh/mlm
Reuters

MOSCOW (Reuters) -Russian President Vladimir Putin received his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad on Monday for the first time since 2018 and criticised foreign forces that are in Syria without permission or a U.N. mandate - a rebuke of the United States and Turkey. Putin is Assad's most powerful ally in the decade-long Syrian conflict; his deployment of Russia's air force in 2015 helped to turn the tide in Assad's favour, allowing him recover most of the territory lost to insurgents. However, Turkish forces are now present in much of the north and northwest, helping to shore up the last major bastion of anti-Assad rebels, and U.S. forces are supporting Kurdish-led militias who control parts of the east and northeast.
The man who allegedly killed four people and wounded one other in Florida on Sunday said he believed he was on a mission from God to save an imaginary girl from sex traffickers, authorities said Thursday.

Brian Riley, the 33-year-old alleged shooter and ex-Marine, went to the victims' residence because he said he received a message from God to save a young girl, investigators said.

"God told me to kill everyone and rescue Amber because she is a victim of sex trafficking," he reportedly told authorities.

FLORIDA SHERIFF CALLS SHOOTING SUSPECT A 'COWARD' AFTER ARRESTING HIM

Riley spoke with one of the victims, Justice Gleason, before the shooting occurred outside the residence, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. He then said God told him Gleason's daughter "Amber" would kill herself, Judd added, citing a witness.

Gleason, 40, replied there was no "Amber" and that he would call the authorities, to which Riley allegedly replied, "No need to call the cops, I'm the cops for God," and left.

"There were no victims of sex crimes in that house," Judd said.

Riley allegedly returned Sunday morning, shot out the windows, and entered the apartment from the back. Once inside, he killed his victim, a 62-year-old woman, police said.

"He shot an entire magazine into the victim," the sheriff said.

He allegedly shot out the windows of the primary residence to gain entry.

There, he shot the family dog, Gleason, Gleason's partner, and the 3-month-old infant his partner was holding, Judd said.

They had been hiding in a locked bathroom, but Riley shot through the door, according to authorities.

Moving through the residence, Riley came across an 11-year-old girl, who was the only survivor of the encounter, Judd said.

He repeatedly asked the young girl where "Amber" was and shot the girl every time she said she didn't know, according to authorities.

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"I tortured her in order to investigate, in order to find Amber," Judd said Riley told police.

Riley then reportedly told Gleason's daughter why he murdered her family.

"Do you know why I killed your parents?" Judd said Riley told the young girl. "They're sex traffickers."

She was shot seven times and survived by playing dead and praying, authorities said.

Riley was taken into custody following his surrender to police after he reportedly engaged in a shootout. He later confessed at a hospital, Judd said.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"He was a coward, an absolute coward. He looks like a man, but he's not a man. He's a sniveling coward," he said. "He was a bad dude when he went into this house and shot and killed a 3-month-old baby in its mother's arms."

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Florida, shooting, children, Police, death

Original Author: Luke Gentile

Original Location: Alleged Florida shooter said he was on mission from God to save imaginary sex-trafficking victim: Sheriff
A panel of judges is deliberating whether Scottsdale violated the Gift Clause in Arizona's constitution.

The Arizona Court of Appeals Division One heard arguments for and against a challenge to the city of Scottsdale passing over a higher bid from Swim Neptune to grant the Scottsdale Aquatic Club rights to use city pools.

Swim Neptune, a for-profit club that operates in Phoenix with swimmers age 5 through high school, alleges the city violated the Arizona Constitution and said the club should be made whole. Arguing its case is the Scottsdale-based nonprofit Goldwater Institute.

At issue is whether the city improperly awarded a contract to the Scottsdale Aquatic Club for a lower amount than what Neptune Swimming Foundation offered. This came about after the city rescinded a request for proposals where Neptune appeared to have cast the winning bid.

A lower court sided with the city, saying the procurement process was different from whats described in the Gift Clause.

Goldwater Senior Attorney Jon Riches said the city is subsidizing one private entity using taxpayer resources.

You have $438,000 versus $153,000, Riches said, comparing the higher bid from Neptune compared with what was offered by the Scottsdale Aquatic Club.

Riches argued that, should the courts endorse this type of contract discretion, this type of partial behavior would become widespread.

If the city of Scottsdale can do this with public resources here in this case with swimming pools, it can do it with any public resource anywhere throughout the ... state, he said.

Scottsdale attorney Eric Anderson argued that, if anything, the city made a mistake and an abuse of discretion in canceling the request for bids and didnt violate the constitution.

When the acting procurement officer looked at this, he discovered there was an error in the process, he said, explaining that a former procurement officer should have handed the matter off to a committee to be scored in a way that would have weighted the bids in Scottsdale Aquatic Club's favor.

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Judge Jennifer Perkins questioned Anderson, saying the entire process looks hinky and appears to have benefitted a favored customer.

The Gift Clause seeks to avoid using government resources to benefit or give special advantage to private interests, she said. Isnt Neptune saying this cancelation of the RFP worked to give a special advantage to a private interest and that is why the city canceled the RFP? If they hadnt canceled the RFP, the winning bidder would have been the non-preferred entity.

Anderson insisted the reason for the view of impropriety was a mistake in the procurement weighting.

The three-judge panel will deliberate the appeal and issue a ruling at a later date.

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Tags: States, News, Arizona, Judge

Original Author: Cole Lauterbach, The Center Square

Original Location: Arizona judges reconsider Scottdales potentially unconstitutional move
By Paulina Duran

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Two of Australia's largest lenders, National Australia Bank (NAB) and Westpac, on Thursday rejected criticism that they are stymieing competition by refusing to do business with cryptocurrency providers.

Many of Australia's top financial institutions have not engaged with the sector, despite its huge growth in the past year, due to its high risks.

The stock exchange ASX Ltd, similarly has not allowed cryptocurrency-related listings, forcing some firms to seek public listings overseas, including on the Nasdaq.

"It's one of the emerging issues that we are looking at - what should our relationship be, if at all, with cryptocurrency," NAB Chief Executive Ross McEwan told a regular parliamentary hearing.

The bank did not have a policy excluding crypto-related customers, but did not service any of them and would only do so if it was profitable and the bank could tolerate the risks, McEwan said.

"We have to look at where does cryptocurrency go, along with ... the reserve bank and regulators. And what's the risk inside the bank of dealing with cryptocurrency providers as well."

Peter King, the chief executive of Westpac, the country's second-largest lender, said the anonymity of cryptocurrency made it "very hard" to meet the bank's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing requirements.

Local digital currency exchanges Bitcoin Babe Pty Ltd and Aus Merchant Pty Ltd on Wednesday told a parliamentary committee exploring how to regulate the sector that none of the Big Four banks would do business with them.

Singapore-based payments and remittances firm Nium on Wednesday also said that Australia had been the only country where it had been "de-banked", out of 40 where it operates.

"Today, fintechs are always one decision away by the banks from closing their businesses," Nium APAC head of consumer Michael Minassian said. "It's time to cast an appropriate light on this anti-competitive practice."

(Reporting by Paulina Duran in Sydney; Editing by Kim Coghill and Stephen Coates)
GAUHATI, India (AP)  Authorities working overnight rescued 82 people after two passenger ferries collided in a river in northeastern India, police said Thursday.

The head-on collision Wednesday caused one of the boats to sink in the Brahmaputra river, leaving one person dead. Several were initially feared missing, but the majority of passengers were either rescued or swam to safety, Assam police chief Bhaskar Mahanta said.

Four rescued passengers were taken to a hospital, where one died, said Ashok Barman, deputy commissioner of Jorhat city.

An estimated 120 people were on the two boats. The crash occurred near Nimati Ghat, a river port in Jorhat, about 350 kilometers (220 miles) from Gauhati, the capital of Assam state.

The cause of the collision was not immediately clear. The second boat was pulled ashore afterward.

The state's chief minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, tweeted that he was pained to hear of the accident and would visit the site on Thursday.
The Biden administration on Wednesday released an outline mapping out how the U.S. could produce half of its electricity using solar power by 2050  a sizeable undertaking given that it accounted for just 4 percent of the countrys electricity last year.

The blueprint showed the U.S. would have to double the amount of solar energy installed each year over the next four years and then double it again by 2030.

While the report says the increase is in line with what has been recommended by climate scientists to prevent the worst effects of global warming, it would upend current technology and the energy industry.

Meeting that goal would require trillions of dollars in investments by homeowners, businesses and the government. As the New York Times notes, the electric grid, which was designed for coal, natural gas and nuclear power plants, would need to be almost entirely redone with the addition of batteries, transmission lines and other technologies with the ability to collect electricity while the sun is shining and send it cross country.

Natural gas and coal currently account for roughly 60 percent of the countrys energy. A report by the Energy Department earlier this year predicted that renewable energy would grow from contributing 20 percent of the countrys electricity now to 42 percent by 2050 based on current trends and policies.

However, building and installing enough solar panels to meet the targets will increase demand for aluminum, silicon, steel and glass, placing a strain upon manufacturers and the energy industry. Trade disputes threaten to complicate a large-scale increase in solar power, as China largely controls the supply chain for solar panels. The Biden administration recently began banning imports connected with the Xinjiang region of China over concerns about human rights abuses against the Uyghur minority.

Additionally, the high cost of batteries used to store energy generated by solar panels and wind turbines could make it difficult to scale up renewable energy.

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Still, Becca Jones-Albertus, director of the Solar Energy Technology Office in the Energy Department, told the outlet that officials are hoping people will see the report and recognize that it is affordable to decarbonize the grid.

The grid will remain reliable. We just need to build, she said.

The Energy Department said its analysis found that solar panels had dropped in price such that they could produce 40 percent of the countrys electricity by 2035, which would be enough to power all American homes, and 45 percent by 2050.

President Biden hopes to use tax credits to increase the usage of solar power systems and batteries at homes, businesses and utilities.

Energy secretary Jennifer Granholm said the administration hopes to institute a Clean Electricity Payment Program to reward utilities for adding renewable energy to the electric grid, including rooftop solar panels, which have received pushback from utility companies that would prefer to build large solar farms that they own and control.

The Obama administration infamously provided $500 million in federally guaranteed loans to the California-based solar panel maker Solyndra only for the company to go bust in 2011.

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The Daily Beast

Media MattersFox News host Tucker Carlson confessed over the weekend that he will lie whenever hes really cornered or something.During a Sunday appearance on right-wing provocateur Dave Rubins podcast, Carlson took aim at his rivals on CNN over what he claimed was their habit of telling falsehoods on the air. (The segment was first flagged by Media Matters, a liberal watchdog and Carlson nemesis.)How do you think they live with themselves at this point when they just lie again and again a
President Biden on Thursday will sign an executive order requiring most federal employees to get the COVID vaccine, without the option of getting regular testing instead, according to a source familiar with the plans.

Why it matters: The order goes further than the Biden administration's previously announced policy, which required federal workers to be vaccinated or follow other rigorous safety protocols, including regular testing.

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Driving the news: "The expectation is if you want to work in the federal government or be a contractor, you need to be vaccinated," White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday.

Federal employees will have about 75 days to get fully vaccinated from the time the executive order is signed, Psaki said.

The vaccine requirement will include exemptions for individuals with disabilities and on religious grounds.

The big picture: Biden will also order the mandate be extended to employees of contractors that do business with the federal government.

The Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the Indian Health Service and the National Institute of Health will complete their previously announced vaccination requirements, which covers about 2.5 million people, per a source familiar with the plans.

The expected orders come amid a surge in cases and hospitalizations largely driven by the Delta variant.

What to watch: Biden is expected to announce the orders during a speech scheduled for 5 p.m. ET Thursday.

Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional details.

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Faced with a late-summer surge in Covid-19 infections, hospitalizations and deaths, President Joe Biden announced on Thursday a new plan to combat the virus.

Among other initiatives, the six-point plan requires all federal employees to be vaccinated. Additionally, more than 17 million health care workers who deal with Medicare and Medicaid patients will have to get vaccines, and the U.S. Department of Labor will require all private employers with more than 100 employees to institute vaccine mandates or test unvaccinated workers on a weekly basis  a move that could affect 80 million workers.

All told, the rules cover about 100 million employees, or two-thirds of the U.S. workforce.

In addition to the workplace rules, the plan calls for a national vaccine booster shot program to begin as soon as September 20; more funding for schools to vaccinate and test staff and students; a push to increase rapid and at-home testing and enhance masking requirements; more money for small businesses; and increased support for antibody treatments and hospitals.

A focus on vaccines: The White House says it does not have the authority to create a national mandate, but its encouraging schools and businesses to require vaccines as broadly as possible. Our overarching objective here is to reduce the number of unvaccinated Americans," White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said. We want to reduce that number, decrease hospitalizations and deaths and allow our children to go to school safely.

Lawrence O. Gostin, a professor of global health law at Georgetown University, told The New York Times Thursday that the latest federal effort is unprecedented. Never before have we mandated a vaccine throughout the federal work force, the National Guard, among government contractors and also using the bully pulpit to try to influence businesses and universities and cities and states to do the same, Gostin said.

The bottom line: The nation has tried the carrots  offering lotteries, cash and other goodies to encourage vaccination. Now Biden is turning to the stick, using it where he can.

Read more about Bidens Covid response plan at The New York Times, CNN and The Washington Post.

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Michael Constantine attends the premiere of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2" at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square on Tuesday, March 15, 2016, in New York. Andy Kropa/Invision/AP

Actor Michael Constantine has died, aged 94.

His family said he died on August 31 in Reading, Pennsylvania, following a long illness.

Constantine is best known for his role as patriarch Gus Portokalos in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Actor Michael Constantine, best known for his role as family patriarch Gus Portokalos in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," has died at 94, his family said Thursday.

Constantine's family told CNN that he died on August 31 in Reading, Pennsylvania, following a long illness.

Nia Vardalos, the writer and star of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," paid tribute to Constantine on Twitter upon hearing of his death.

"Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend," she wrote. "Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael."

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Constantine, who was born to Greek immigrants and grew up in Reading, was a character actor for five decades before his death.

He won an Emmy in 1970 for his role as principal Seymour Kaufman in the ABC series "Room 222," but he was widely known for his role of Portokalos.

While he first played the role in the 2002 movie, he reprised the role in a short-lived TV sitcom titled "My Big Fat Greek Life" and for the 2016 film sequel.

Read the original article on Insider
MarketWatch

If youre on Social Security there is good news, and some not quite so good news, in the latest official inflation report out from Uncle Sam on Tuesday. The good news is that youre on track for the biggest annual cost of living adjustment next year in over a decade. Based on the U.S. Labor Departments consumer price data for August, Social Security is on track to hike benefits 5.9% for 2022 when it makes the official announcement next month.
The UK is set to drop out of Germany's top 10 trading partners, as a the realignment continues following Brexit. Photo: PA

The UK is set to drop from the list of the top 10 trading partners for Germany by 2022 for the first time since the 1950s, new figures have shown.

According to the Federal Statistics Office, in the first half of 2021, Germany decreased its spend on British goods by 13.8bn ($19bn), or about 11%.

By 2022, the UK looks to be on course for the 11th spot in terms of trade with Europe's largest economy.

Before Brexit in 2016, the UK was Germany's fifth most important trading partner.

Sectors that face particular hardships as a result of the drop are agriculture and pharmaceuticals. Imports to Germany from the UK are down by 80% and 50% respectively, the data show.

Read more: Call for sweeping reforms to keep London at the heart of global finance

When Brexit originally set in both imports and exports were hit by new border formality. A last-minute deal was struck in December supposedly ensuring tariff-free trade.

Some sectors have seen an improvement since then, however officials have since said that issues run deeper than the initial teething problems highlighted at the time.

The start of 2021 saw a historic realignment of trade in Britain, as UK imports from the rest of the world overtook imports from the European Union for the first time since records began.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) said that imports of goods from the rest of the world in the first quarter of 2021 were higher than EU imports for the first time since it began collecting data in 1997.

Trade with the EU fell by 18.4bn ($26bn) in the first three months of the year. At the time, economists and analysts said it was unclear whether the shift would be permanent.

Watch: What is inflation and why is it important?
By Sarah Young and Abhinav Ramnarayan

LONDON (Reuters) -EasyJet has rejected a takeover approach from Wizz Air that would have created a low-cost airline to rival Ryanair, opting instead to raise $1.7 billion from shareholders and go it alone in an industry battling to recover from the pandemic.

EasyJet declined to name its suitor, but a source familiar with the matter told Reuters it was Wizz Air. Wizz also declined to comment.

EasyJet said the all-share approach fundamentally undervalued its business, and added the potential bidder had since said it was no longer interested in a deal.

The approach was "highly conditional in its nature which made it very uncertain in terms of the deliverability," easyJet CEO Johan Lundgren told reporters, without giving details.

EasyJet said the fundraising, its second of the pandemic, would strengthen its balance sheet should the COVID-19 downturn continue and allow it to operate more aggressively once the recovery arrives. It has identified landing slots across Europe it could acquire, including in Paris, Amsterdam and Milan.

"I believe this is really a once in a lifetime opportunity," Lundgren said.

EasyJet, which during the pandemic sunk to its first ever annual loss and cut 4,500 jobs, wants to steal market share from legacy carriers like British Airways owner IAG and Air France-KLM as they retract their short-haul operations.

But it faces stiff competition from Ryanair, Europe's largest budget airline, and rapidly expanding Wizz, both of which have recovered faster than easyJet this year.

Wizz is strong in eastern European destinations like Poland and Romania, while easyJet is well-positioned in countries including Britain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and France. Adding to their potential good fit, both also operate all-Airbus fleets.

"EasyJet has always been a strategic target for Jozsef Varadi," said a senior industry source of the Wizz CEO.

Based on passenger data from last year, when fewer people travelled during the pandemic, a combination of the pair would still lag Ryanair by almost 20 million passengers.

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Wizz, which counts aviation veteran Bill Franke as its chairman and his Indigo Partners as its biggest shareholder, has a market value of 5.1 billion pounds ($7 billion), while easyJet is worth 3.3 billion pounds. Its share price has also outperformed easyJet's.

Shares in Wizz had bounced back to pre-pandemic levels by November 2020 and hit an all-time high of 5,595 pence in March. EasyJet's stock, by contrast, had recovered 70% of its pre-pandemic value by May 2021 before starting another decline.

RIGHTS ISSUE

Illustrating the ongoing travel slump, easyJet said that over July-September it expected its capacity to be about 57% of pre-pandemic levels. Ryanair flew around 75% of its normal passenger numbers in August, and Wizz flew over 85% that month.

For the last three months of 2021 easyJet expects to fly up to 60% of 2019 levels, held back by Britain's slower return to international travel than the rest of Europe.

The drawn out recovery has already forced easyJet to raise 5.5 billion pounds from shareholders and debt markets, and by selling and leasing back aircraft. It also announced a new $400 million debt facility on Thursday.

In June 2020, easyJet raised 419 million pounds from investors, but its biggest shareholder, founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou, did not participate. The new rights issue, raising 1.2 billion pounds, represents a 35.8% discount on the theoretical ex-rights price of 638 pence per share on Sept. 8.

Shares in easyJet, which were trading around 1,550 pence before the pandemic hit in early 2020, were down 10% at 710 pence at 1105 GMT, while Wizz was down 2%.

James Halstead, managing partner at consulting firm Aviation Strategy, said the takeover announcement would normally mean easyJet was in play, but there were few alternative buyers due to high industry debt levels and competition issues.

The rights issue is underwritten by BNP Paribas, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, Santander and Societe Generale.

($1 = 0.7264 pounds)

(Additional reporting by Paul SandleEditing by Kate Holton and Mark Potter)
A 12-year-old boy in California was punched multiple times in an unprovoked attack Sunday while riding on a bus to visit his grandma in Long Beach, according to his father.

The incident happened just before 2 p.m. on the corner of Atlantic Avenue and Carson Street while the Long Beach Transit bus was parked at a bus stop, FOX11 Los Angeles reported.

CALIFORNIA COUPLE SHOT, KILLED OVER POSSIBLE PARKING SPACE DISPUTE IN LONG BEACH

The boys father, Billy Brown, told the station that a 40-year-old Hispanic male got on the bus and sat next to his son when the disturbing attack unfolded  and no one stepped in to help.

"The guy sucker-punched my son and hit him right in the face and just got to whaling on my son for no reason and of course, this is disturbing," Brown said. "My son tells me that the guy then grabbed his shirt and slung him around to the other side of the bus and continued to beat on him and all this time, there are passengers on the bus and there's a bus driver, and no one does anything to intervene."

The boy told the station that he tried to defend himself but the man overpowered him.

"He was just mad and he started hitting me and stuff in the head," the 12-year-old said. "I tried to protect myself and I tried to block some of the hits, but I couldn't block all of them."

He said that no one, not even the bus driver, tried to help him before the man took his bag and walked off the parked bus. After the attack, the boy said one passenger asked if he wanted to call police.

Police on Tuesday said officers were working with Long Beach Transit officials to identify the suspect.

On Wednesday evening, police identified the suspect as 36-year-old David Manuel Santana Garcia.

Police said he was arrested without incident and charged with child cruelty, assault, battery, and other public transportation-related charges.
A California father who said he was enlightened by QAnon to kill his 10-month-old daughter and 2-year-old son with a spearfishing gun in Mexico was indicted Wednesday by a federal grand jury in San Diego, according to authorities.

Matthew Taylor Coleman, 40, is charged with two counts of foreign first-degree murder of United States nationals, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of California said in a statement.

Coleman, a surfing instructor from Santa Barbara, could face the death penalty, according to the statement, which noted that the attorney general "will decide whether to seek the death penalty at a later date."

Matthew Taylor Coleman (@matthewtaylorcoleman via Instagram)

A criminal complaint filed last month accuses Coleman of killing his children "by shooting a spearfishing gun into their chests."

He confessed to killing the children, according to the complaint, telling investigators that "he believed his children were going to grow into monsters so he had to kill them."

"Coleman explained that he was enlightened by QAnon and Illuminati conspiracy theories and was receiving visions and signs" that revealed his wife was telling him "he was saving the world from monsters," the complaint said.

According to the document, Coleman said he knew it was wrong to kill his children, "but it was the only course of action that would save the world."

Coleman's wife called police Aug. 7 to report that her husband left with their two kids. The family was supposed to go camping together, but instead Coleman put the children in their Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van and left. She said they hadn't argued and had no reason to believe her husband would harm her children, but she was concerned because he hadn't taken a car seat.

The next day, she reported them missing and police helped her track Coleman using the "find my iPhone" app. His last known location was in Rosarito, Mexico.

On Aug. 9, still using the app, friends of Coleman's wife's showed police that he was moving toward the U.S.-Mexico border. When authorities met him there, he did not have his children in the van.

Story continues

Once the children were reported missing, Mexican officials reported they had found two children's bodies matching their description in a ditch. The baby and the toddler had "large puncture wounds in their chest cavities," the criminal complaint said.

Authorities said Coleman confessed to moving the bodies into some brush 30 yards away from where the children were killed.

There are no words to describe the profound grief that envelops an entire community when a child is murdered, acting U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman said in the statement. The Department of Justice is determined to achieve justice for these victims and their loved ones.

Court documents do not list an attorney for Coleman. He is expected to make his first court appearance in Los Angeles on Thursday. Subsequent court appearances will be in San Diego.
By David Ljunggren

OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, facing a possible election defeat, on Wednesday lashed out at his main rival, accusing him of favoring restrictions on abortion and wanting to loosen gun controls.

Opinion polls show the right-leaning Conservatives of Erin O'Toole could win the Sept. 20 vote, ending six years of rule by the left-of-center Liberals.

At the end of an otherwise unremarkable two-hour leaders' debate in French, Trudeau said O'Toole had sided with the gun lobby and wanted to overturn a Liberal ban on assault weapons.

He also said dozens of Conservative Parliamentarians had voted in favor of draft legislation to curb abortions that was defeated in the House of Commons in June.

"Mr O'Toole refused to tell Canadians what he wants to do. He signs deals with special interest groups," Trudeau said. "He is offering weak leadership ... he can't be trusted."

O'Toole, who has consistently attacked Trudeau's decision to call a snap election during the COVID-19 pandemic, retorted that the Liberal leader would "say anything to win" and said he was in favor of abortion rights.

Last Sunday O'Toole scrapped a campaign promise to eliminate a ban on some assault weapons after Trudeau accused him of cozying up to the gun lobby.

Trudeau called the election two years ahead of schedule as a referendum on his handling of the pandemic but has struggled to overcome voter fatigue.

Wednesday's two-hour debate was the second and final one to be held in French, which is predominantly spoken in Quebec. The province accounts for 78 of the 338 seats in the House of Commons and is crucial for any party seeking office.

The leaders will hold another debate on Thursday in English, the language spoken by two-thirds of Canada's 38 million population. An Ipsos Research poll for Global News on Wednesday put the Conservatives at 35% public support, with the Liberals at 32% and the left-leaning New Democrats at 21%.

($1 = 1.2702 Canadian dollars)

(Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Peter Cooney and Michael Perry)
By Rod Nickel

WINNIPEG, Manitoba (Reuters) -Canada's Supreme Court declined on Thursday to hear an appeal from fashion designer Peter Nygard of a lower court's decision that he stay in jail on sex trafficking and racketeering charges.

Nygard wanted the country's highest court to overturn a March decision by the Manitoba Court of Appeal that denied his release ahead of a November hearing for extradition to the United States. The Supreme Court posted on its website that it had dismissed Nygard's application, without giving its reasons, as is normal.

Canadian police arrested Nygard in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in December at the U.S. government's request under the countries' extradition treaty.

U.S. authorities accuse Nygard of using his businesses to lure women and girls in the United States, Canada and the Bahamas since 1995 to sexually gratify himself and his associates.

Nygard has denied all allegations.

Born in Finland, Nygard grew up in Manitoba, eventually running his namesake clothing companies and becoming one of Canada's wealthiest people.

(Reporting by Rod Nickel in Winnipeg, Editing by Nick Zieminski)
The Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) has called for an overhaul of the country's "archaic" access-to-information system after Canada's tax agency took five years to provide the South China Morning Post with a secret study linking millionaire migration to high home prices in Vancouver.

The long wait for the study, conducted by Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) auditors in 1996, was a "damning" example of the system's dysfunction, the association said in a statement on Wednesday, calling on party leaders to address the issue in federal election debates this week.

"A functioning democracy thrives on a free-flowing stream of access to accurate information," the association said. "[The Post's] story lays bare the real-world consequences of frequent and severe delays to information requests."

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

The CRA meanwhile acknowledged on Wednesday that the five-year wait was unacceptable and "clearly not normal".

Graphs depict the wide disparity between the incomes declared by new immigrants and long-term Canadian resident buyers of luxury homes in the Vancouver area, in a 1996 Canada Revenue Agency study that was provided to the South China Morning Post in a freedom-of-information response. Photo: SCMP alt=Graphs depict the wide disparity between the incomes declared by new immigrants and long-term Canadian resident buyers of luxury homes in the Vancouver area, in a 1996 Canada Revenue Agency study that was provided to the South China Morning Post in a freedom-of-information response. Photo: SCMP

Last week, the Post reported details of the study that suggested wealthy migrants made more than 90 per cent of high-value home purchases in two Vancouver municipalities, but on average declared extremely low incomes, on par with those of refugees.

Story continues

The documents confirm the CRA knew 25 years ago that wealth migration and foreign money were playing a vast role in the region's luxury home market, and that government millionaire migration schemes - dominated by Hongkongers and Taiwanese in the 1990s and then mainland Chinese - appeared connected to systematic tax abuse.

But the schemes were allowed to continue operating for decades, and Vancouver would go on to become one of the most unaffordable cities in the world.

The Post lodged an access to information and privacy (ATIP) request for the study on August 30, 2016. It was finally provided this August 17, amid an election campaign that is strongly focused on housing affordability.

University of British Columbia geographer David Ley has studied housing unaffordability and international money flows for about 30 years, often hampered by a lack of official data. Debate over the subject had been controversial for decades in Vancouver, Ley said, and frequently roiled by accusations of racism.

He said he "felt a lot emotions - disappointment would be one of the milder ones" to discover that the CRA study had existed but been withheld for so long.

Foreign money's influence on Vancouver's market "was dismissed as anecdotal" for many years said Ley, shaping policy and public perception. The CRA study "joined the dots" between wealth migration and the market, he said.

Linking high home prices to buyers with low declared incomes represented a "hefty contribution" to the understanding of unaffordability in Vancouver, where median home prices are 13 times higher than median annual incomes, behind only Hong Kong, according to the annual Demographia report by think tank Urban Reform Institute.

"It would have allowed a much more constructive and decisive conversation to have occurred at the time," Ley said. "These issues were regarded as contentious, but it turns out they had some quite firm data to weigh in but chose not to."

It was only in 2016, after decades of soaring prices, that BC government policy began to crack down on foreign money flows into real estate, first via a foreign buyers tax, and then a speculation and vacancy tax on foreign owners and satellite families whose principal earner declares more income overseas than in Canada.

Had the study been made public when it was performed, it would have also allowed "a much more critical eye" to be cast on Canada's millionaire migration schemes, sooner, said Ley.

The Federal Immigrant Investor Programme was shut down in 2014, while the Quebec IIP was frozen in 2019 pending a review. Together, the schemes were the world's biggest millionaire migration vehicles for many years, and Vancouver the most popular destination city.

The CRA had said in 2016 it could not confirm the existence of the housing study, after summaries were provided to the Post by a whistle-blower.

On Tuesday the agency said it was "continuing to take steps to improve our performance" processing ATIP requests.

"Taking five years to complete an access to information request is clearly not normal, nor is it acceptable," a spokeswoman said.

She attributed the delay to "ensuring the information provided was in scope with the request, and as complete as possible while ensuring the protection and privacy of taxpayer information; significant staffing changes; and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on how the CRA conducted its business".

In its statement, the CAJ called on party leaders to explain how they would implement "long-overdue reforms" to Canada's ATIP system during this week's election debates. The French-language debate will be held on Wednesday and the English-language debate on Thursday.

Summaries of a 1996 CRA study linking Vancouver-area luxury home purchases to new immigrants, provided to the South China Morning Post in a freedom-of-information response by the Canada Revenue Agency. Photo: SCMP alt=Summaries of a 1996 CRA study linking Vancouver-area luxury home purchases to new immigrants, provided to the South China Morning Post in a freedom-of-information response by the Canada Revenue Agency. Photo: SCMP

"Canadians' right to know is so frequently poorly served by our crumbling federal access to information system," said CAJ president Brent Jolly. "Looking at the party platforms, there is scant mention of plans for reforms, which is a Houdini-like act of deception aimed at keeping citizens perpetually in the dark about how government decisions are made."

Regarding the five-year wait for the ATIP request to be fulfilled, Ley said it was "hard not to make the inference that some people were sitting on this information, and hoped that [the request] would just go away".

Andy Yan, housing academic and director of the city programme at Simon Fraser University, said that had it been released sooner, the CRA study "would certainly have informed and directed a level of federal policy".

The delays represented a "deflection that undermine Canadian democracy ... this type of obfuscation creates an environment of distrust in government," he said.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2021 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2021. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Daily Beast

YouTube/KARE 11The FBI has been called in to assist local authorities in rural Wisconsin after four young friends from Minnesota were found murdered and randomly left in an abandoned SUV in a cornfield.Authorities in Dunn County, Wisconsin, where the quadruple homicide victims were discovered Sunday, have made no secret that they have been left baffled by the crime.Its highly unusual for this area. Obviously weve had homicides in the last several years, but something of this magnitude[Im]
In this article:

BEIJING (Reuters) - China's President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a congratulatory message to North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un on the 73rd anniversary of the country's founding, according to state TV China Central Television.

(Reporting by Stella Qiu and Ryan Woo; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
FORT COLLINS, Colo.  Loveland city leaders and the family of Karen Garner have agreed to a $3 million settlement to a civil case tied to Garner's forcible arrest in June 2020.

Garner's arrest drew national attention after body camera footage released by her family's lawyer showed former Loveland Police Department officer Austin Hopp forcibly detain the then 73-year-old woman after staff at a Loveland Walmart accused her of attempting to leave the store with items she hadn't paid for.

Garner, who has dementia, suffered multiple injuries in the arrest, for which Hopp faces criminal charges including second-degree assault causing serious bodily injury. Loveland Police Department terminated Hopp, former officer Daria Jalali and former community service officer Tyler Blackett over their roles in Garner's arrest and subsequent detention.

"The amount of this settlement is likely record-breaking for a civil rights case that doesn't involve death or permanent disfigurement," attorney Sarah Schielke said in a news conference Wednesday outside the Loveland courthouse and police headquarters.

Members of Karen Garner's family, from left, grandson Drew Steward, daughter-in-law Shannon Steward and daughter Allisa Swartz look on as attorney Sarah Schielke announces they have reached a $3 million settlement with the city of Loveland and its police department to end a federal civil rights lawsuit during a news conference Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, in front of the Loveland Police and Courts building in Loveland, Colo.

The settlement ends the civil case filed on behalf of the Garner family by Schielke, while criminal cases against Hopp and Jalali continue.

"The settlement will help fund the 24/7 care that we have her in, and that will be a big help towards that care," Garner's daughter, Allisa Swartz, said at the news conference.

The family chose to settle the case so Garner could benefit immediately from the proceeds. Court proceedings, had they continued, would likely have lasted several years, Schielke said, while Garner's condition deteriorated. Garner has not spoken of her arrest since the morning after it occurred, and her caregivers have told them not to bring it up, Swartz said.

The family recently found a letter Garner had written to her three children and nine grandchildren after being diagnosed with dementia a few years ago in which she urged them not to live in the past, Schielke said.

Story continues

Schielke went on to issue a challenge to Loveland Police Chief Robert Ticer, pledging to donate $50,000 of her own money to a charity benefitting those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease or dementia if he resigns within 30 days.

Change in leadership, she said, is the only way to begin fixing "a culture of police officers who have no respect, no care, no compassion for the people they're supposed to be keeping safe. A culture of police officers who back one another before they stand up for a vulnerable citizen they're supposed to protect."

She went on to mention other recent allegations of Loveland police using excessive force, including the shooting last month of mentally ill teenager in his backyard whose death was announced Wednesday.

Karen Garner case: Ex-officers face charges in arrest of 73-year-old Colorado woman with dementia

3 officers resign: Lawsuit says police dislocated Karen Garner's shoulder during arrest

'Ready for the pop?': Colorado police officer joked about excessive force used in arrest of Karen Garner

The settlement with Karen Garner will help bring some closure to an unfortunate event in our community but does not upend the work we have left to do. We extend a deep and heartfelt apology to Karen Garner and her family for what they have endured as a result of this arrest, Loveland City Manager Steve Adams said in a written statement. We know we did not act in a manner that upholds the values, integrity, and policies of the City and police department, and we are taking the necessary steps to make sure these actions are never repeated.

Loveland and its police department have pledged multiple steps to "hopefully restore faith that the LPD exists to serve those who live in and visit Loveland," as Ticer stated in the city's release.

It initiated an independent investigation into Garner's arrest, led by consulting group Hillard Heintze, and formed a 16-member Ad Hoc Community Trust Commission, for which it is seeking applicants.

The city has also scheduled a virtual community town hall to address concerns with Loveland Police Department from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16. Registration information can be found here.

A judge found ample evidence to continue the criminal case against Hopp during a mid-August preliminary hearing. He is scheduled for a Sept. 29 court appearance, at which time he is expected to enter a plea.

Jalali faces misdemeanor charges in connection with Garner's arrest. Her next court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 13 in anticipation of new evidence being released during and after Hopp's preliminary hearing, her attorney said during an Aug. 10 court appearance.

"This settlement brings a measure of justice to the Garner family, but it does not deliver full justice, particularly to this community," Schielke said. "Full justice to Karen Garner and this community will happen at the moment that every individual who participated in this atrocity or fostered the conditions and culture that made its happening possible is held accountable."

Follow Eric Larsen and Kelly Lyell on Twitter: @ericlarsen_news and @KellyLyell.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Colorado city to pay $3M settlement over Karen Garner arrest
The worlds first full-service funeral home specializing in human composting is planting seeds in Denver.

Driving the news: Recompose, a company that offers human composting services in Washington state, plans to open a 50-vessel facility in Denver by fall 2022, spokesperson Anna Swenson says.

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Context: Colorado became the second state in the country behind Washington to legalize human composting after Democratic Gov. Jared Polis signed the bill in May.

The policy went into effect Tuesday, but experts tell Axios it could take about a year of ironing out legal logistics before a business can be licensed to operate.

Why it matters: Not only will the law give Coloradans a new death care option, but advocates say it will position the state as a pioneer in innovative environmental policy and practices.

Recompose estimates that 1 metric ton of carbon dioxide is saved from entering the environment for every person who chooses organic production over conventional burial or cremation.

Thats because the soil created returns the nutrients from human bodies to the natural world, capable of helping restore forests, capture carbon and nourish new life.

State of play: Demand is clear in Denver and Coloradans are actively contacting Recompose about its services, Swenson says.

The interest resembles what the company has seen in Washington, where Recompose has been at capacity since opening last December. It recently expanded operations from 10 to 16 vessels to transform 16 bodies per month into soil.

The team is working to open a second 50-vessel operation in the Seattle metro area by next March, per Swenson.

What theyre saying: "We are planning to bring this everywhere there are people who want it," she adds.

Zoom out: More states are following in Colorados footsteps. Oregons governor recently signed its comparable bill into law, and California is expected to do so soon.

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Other legislatures, including in Delaware and Hawaii, are also weighing the option.

The other side: The Catholic Church has come out against legalizing the practice in every state where human composting has been pushed. Bishops argue the process is not a sufficiently respectful or dignified way to dispose of remains.

The big picture: The funeral industry is worth billions of dollars, and businesses across the country are cashing in by reimagining traditional practices. Meanwhile, more people are taking control of how they want to die  in surprising new ways.

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Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, speaking virtually Thursday to the City Club of Cleveland, will appeal to business to back President Biden's social-infrastructure plans as "a competitive advantage" for America.

What she's saying: "I get it. Were asking you to pay more in taxes," Raimondo, who has met with more than 100 CEOs since joining the Cabinet, says in remarks shared first with Axios.

Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.

"But I'd also suggest that if the business community doesnt like the pay-fors we've proposed, it's time to come up with some real alternatives that don't raise taxes on middle class families."

Raimondo, former Rhode Island governor, promises this payoff: "A more stable democracy and a more sustainable capitalist system."

Go deeper: Go time on infrastructure

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A summer of hope for freedom from the COVID-19 virus has turned into a fall of despair, as the delta variant has turbocharged once-declining infection rates and hospitalizations. The economic and psychological costs of the viruss resurgence are difficult to predict, but the political fallout is already taking a toll, with much finger-pointing over the government's mixed messaging and a sizable portion of the population choosing to defy vaccination recommendations. Doug McKelway has more.



Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: Videos, Delta Variant, Coronavirus, Mandate, Vaccination

Original Author: Washington Examiner Staff

Original Location: COVID Confusion: Is there any end to it?
As excited as Lily Rose Clifton is about starting college as a freshman at the University of Washington in a few weeks, shes just as anxious about attending school in person after being homebound with long-haul Covid symptoms for the last 15 months.

Before getting sick, she was a healthy active teenager but that all flipped after Covid left her struggling with, among other things, post-viral autoimmune dysautonomia which affects her nervous system triggering dizziness, elevated heart rate, and rapid breathing when she stands up or exerts energy quickly. She said she also feels bouts of brain fog, officially diagnosed as dissociate syndrome, which she now takes medication for in order to keep focus.

I don't learn the same way from when I was healthy, Clifton, 18, said. I feel like Im a totally different person now.

She said she will likely reach out to the universitys disability services office to arrange some accommodation for her new needs like extra time to get to class and for reading assignments. I feel bad even asking for anything because I feel like it takes away from other people who are in worse situations, but my mom tells me I shouldnt feel that way because my needs and abilities have also changed since Covid.

As long-term Covid continues to linger in thousands, young people suffering from its residual effects will undoubtedly return to schools and colleges needing more support and accommodation, but with disability infrastructure being underfunded and not widely understood in many colleges, schools will need to re-examine systems they have in place for these students, disability experts said.

Total Covid cases in the United States have exceeded 40 million, according to NBC News' tally, and studies show that as much as 10 percent of those who had Covid may become long-haulers who carry prolonged symptoms.

Some of these symptoms include difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, fatigue, heart palpitations, and difficulty concentrating or brain fog, theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention reported, adding that these symptoms tend to get worse after physical or mental activities.

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President Joe Biden announced in July that serious long-term Covid cases could qualify as a disability, making federal protections and resources available to those people. The Health and Human Services Department, the Justice Department and the Labor Department released guidelines to help individuals experiencing effects of long-term Covid navigate federal benefits, saying "individualized assessment is necessary to determine whether a persons long Covid condition or any of its symptoms substantially limits a major life activity."

Related: It's about going beyond compliance in terms of what the ADA really means and what it means in terms of disability and inclusivity, one expert said.

The Education Department has also extendedprotections to students whose long Covid substantially limits a major life activity.

Despite a prevailing narrative that children aren't as affected by the illness, those with long Covid have a similar array of complaints that adults have and it's manifesting in pediatric patients in specific ways, especially in the school setting, said Dr. Bradley Schlaggar, president and CEO of Kennedy Krieger Institute and a professor of neurology and pediatrics at Johns Hopkins University.

Fatigue, dizziness issues with endurance, deconditioning, a lot of the complaints have been coming up as young people get back into education settings, he said. If you are inattentive or it takes a lot of energy to maintain your attention, you're not going to be able to perform academically and that's especially the case as the academic demands increase.

Schlaggar added that if you layer on top of those symptoms anxiety and endurance issues in which a young person doesnt recognize this performance compared to what they could do before, that compounds the experience especially in intense environments like college.

Image: Ohio State University Reopens For In-Class Learning (Ty Wright / Bloomberg via Getty Images file)

On many college campuses, accessibility and accommodation were already a mixed bag with respect to adequate services, but an increase in the number of people who may qualify as disabled will exacerbate any existing deficiencies, according to Jasmine Harris, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School who focuses on disability law.

If we do not address reasonable modifications and disability in higher ed, we risk students dropping out of programs, voluntarily or involuntarily, which means we lose the talent and skills of a growing population of young long-haulers.

In order to support long-haulers, there needs to be clarity and centralization regarding the process of requesting reasonable accommodations at all levels, from the centralized office to the individual classroom instructor, Harris said. What's "reasonable" can be subject to interpretation and individual instructors may unintentionally create barriers to accommodations for students with disabilities.

In addition, young long-haulers will likely face skepticism given fiscal and administrative shortfalls on campuses, leading to a disparity of who receives support. Those who have the time and money to document their impairments and their effect on learning will be the most successful, Harris said, adding that documentation should not be a barrier to access.

Related: Dr. Elizabeth Kostals attorneys are filing a class-action lawsuit alleging her and other university employees rights were violated under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Some schools have already started the process of re-examining their disability infrastructure.

Amanda Kraus, the executive director of disability resources at the University of Arizona, said the school, which has over 44,000 students, has already seen a significant increase in Covid-related requests for accommodations on campus.

The pandemic has really taught us that there is a need for more flexibility, compassion and a universal design that will benefit not just those with disabilities but everyone, and my hope is that we retain some of that the things that were put in place to adapt to the pandemic, she said.

There does need to be a degree of forethought by educational institutions, said Robert Dinerstein, director of the Disability Rights Law Clinic at American University Washington College of Law. Outreach and training from the top down could be one way to prepare staff. Professors should be trained to be more attuned to disabilities and understand that protocols will be different.

Mark Weber, a professor at DePaul University College of Law, said one of the largest impediments to accommodations has been a general attitude toward disability and an unwillingness to offer it because of a fear of cost or skepticism that someone really needs it.

A large number of accommodations don't necessarily cost anything or demand additional resources so much as just require people to change their conventional or standard operating procedures, he said.

Despite her new medical impairments, Clifton said she will continue to push herself and hopes one day that her long Covid is behind her. Until then, she hopes for some empathy as she starts college.

Every students best will probably look different now, she said. I want people to know that its important to consider everyone's life situations and understand that were doing the best we can.
Sylvain Gaboury/Getty

Its funny that people were worried about John Mulaneys sobriety after he appeared on Late Night last year, the comedian said upon his return to the NBC show Tuesday night. I had been under the influence the day beforeand the day after, I was probably under the influence, he told Seth Meyers. But on the show at your insistence, I was more sober than not.

After that old episode aired, the comedian remembers just how many people online seemed to think something was wrong with him. And I was sitting at home going, Indeed, something is.

Theres little mystery to why Mulaney would choose Meyers to conduct his first interview after seeking treatment for a relapse with alcohol and cocaine last fall. The two have worked together on a number of projects since their days on Saturday Night Live, and Meyers wholesome vibe in many ways mirrors the non-threatening persona that endeared Mulaney to so many in the first place. For nearly 20 minutes, the pair discussed the intervention Meyers and other 40-something-year-old comedians staged, Mulaneys relationship with Olivia Munn (whom the comedian confirmed is pregnant), and what its been like to navigate the past year as a freshly sober person still learning to use their shaky Bambi legs.

SNL Host John Mulaney Jokes Nothing Will Change if Biden Beats Trump

Horses in hospitals and saucy real estate agents give Mulaneys specials their unpredictable whimsy, but its his frankness about being hungover at his graduation and doing so much cocaine that most of college is a blur that impart the routines with quiet depth. When the comedian first revealed he had relapsed, everyone from fans online to the broader media establishment seemed invested in getting the discussion rightin being kind to a comedian whose work speaks to so many, in part, because he has been so consistently vulnerable. But as sensitive as the coverage of Mulaneys treatment has generally been, his divorce has remained fair game for tabloids and, of course, the judgmental peanut gallery that is Twitter.

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As eager as we all seem to be, in a post-Framing Britney Spears world, to avoid maligning celebrities for personal struggles we cannot possibly understand from afar, its disheartening to watch Mulaney do damage control while strangers rush to judge decisions hes made in recoverychoices that he credits with saving his life. At this point parasocial relationship is one of Twitters favorite buzzwords, and there certainly seems to be an element of projection to the Mulaney-Munn mishegas. But the ire currently surrounding Mulaney also seems to reflect our collective inability to conjure empathy and understanding for people with substance use disorders, and the degree to which the comedians own discussion of the subject has been ignored in his broader public image.

Mulaney hasnt spent a lot of time talking about his domestic life over the years, but the jokes hes mined from it have come to define his public image. Anna Marie Tendler, the comedians wife for six years before their divorce, had become an occasional character in his work, along with their cantankerous French bulldog Petunia, whom he impersonates with the withering croak of a French chain smoker.

Mulaneys jokes about his relationship are often the ones that reinforce his unassuming personafrom his people-pleasing Mayor of Nothing nature, to his inability to command authority even over a small dog, to his childlike excitement over finally getting to use the word wife. He also used his marriage as a vehicle to explore and mock sexist comedy tropes: During his third stand-up special, The Comeback Kid, the comedian came for the bananas-insulting expression Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?which he ultimately answered with that disarming combination of sincerity and snark.

Why buy the cow? Because you love her. You really do. And sure, shes a bossy little Jew, but she takes care of you. And you dont wanna be some old man stumbling around, like, Hey, you seen any loose milk?

A few years later, in Kid Gorgeous, Mulaney recalled a conversation in which he asked Tendler if he could make fun of her on stage. She consented, he said, as long as he didnt say that she was a bitch and he didnt like her. He feigned shock at a trope thats pervaded male comedians acts for years, wondering aloud, What kind of show would that even be? Hello, my wife is a bitch and I dont like her! Thats like a support group for men in crisis, with keynote speakers Jon Voight and Alec Baldwin.

Its not like Mulaney has hidden his alcoholism and cocaine use; hes discussed those far more often than he has his romantic life. But the good-guy pedestal the public discourse propped under the comedians feet years ago has also done him a disservice. As anyone who manages a substance use disorder can tell you, America still struggles with the idea that any good person can also find themselves addicted to anything. But someone who overcame said addiction? Thats the kind of non-existent hero we can all adore.

Sobriety, as Mulaney noted in his conversation with Meyers, is a commitment he must make every day. When asked whether being newly sober is the hardest version of John Mulaney to be, he simply replied, Theyre all uncomfortable to be. At the same time, he expressed at length his appreciation for the beautiful connection hes formed with Munnwhom he credits with supporting him through the hell of recovery.

But Munn has already been cast as the Angelina Jolie to Tendlers Jennifer Aniston; her pregnant belly made headlines in the New York Post. Although comedians spouses do not usually achieve enough significance to generate this much anger on their behalf, Tendler is a multi-disciplinary artist who designs Victorian lampshadespossibly the coolest-sounding profession on Earth. Her Instagram feed is a sumptuous combination of product shots and photography that commands a following of its own, including, one imagines, more than a few Mulaney stans who might not want to see the couple split.

At this point the backlash to the backlash has grown just as strong. For every person tweeting that theyre going to dump all of their anger about all the shitty things men have ever done onto Mulaney, theres another wondering how any of us could presume to know what a complete stranger should do with his life.

Olivia Munn attends the Fifth Annual InStyle Awards at The Getty Center on October 21, 2019, in Los Angeles, California. Randy Shropshire/Getty

Now that were more than a year into a seemingly endless pandemic, celebrity break-ups and make-ups have become a rare form of familiar escapism. (And the Ana de Armas-Ben Affleck-Jennifer Lopez-Alex Rodriguez love quadrilateral could only sustain us for so long.) But as delightful as it can be to transform famous peoples lives into our own Greek myths, these tales sell best when rendered in black and whiteand few peoples stories can accurately be told without at least a little gray.

Toward the end of his sit-down with Meyers, Mulaney pointed out that the crowd he was playing to in his previous appearance was, thanks to COVID-19 regulations, actually an empty room. Thats me, he said, pointing to a photo in Meyers hands, playing to a crowd that isnt there.

And yet, the illusion is effective. Anyone who wasnt in the room with Meyers and Mulaney during that original interview wouldnt know what the reality of their conversation was like, even after it aired for us to watch. Its TV magicthe kind of editing that stitches together shows like Late Night, The Sack Lunch Bunch, stand-up specials, and every other keyhole most of us will get into Mulaneys life. To say that Mulaney has changed by ending one relationship and starting another implies a level of familiarity viewers will never have with a comedian most of us will never meet. And to claim that any of his choices undo his wholesomeness says more about us than it does him.

Maybe instead of trying to rewrite Mulaneys role in our celebrity mythology (hero or villain, saintly square or lecherous adulterer) we can all simply take him at his wordspecifically, the one he chose to sum up his tumultuous year. You guys saved me from drugs, and Olivia and this baby have helped save me from myself in this early journey out of recovery, the comedian told his friend. I dont have a joke for that. Im really grateful.

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By Amanda Ferguson

BELFAST (Reuters) -Northern Ireland's largest pro-British party threatened on Thursday to withdraw from the region's power-sharing government within weeks unless big changes were made to the terms of Britain's divorce deal with the European Union.

Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson demanded the removal of all new trade barriers between the British province and the rest of the United Kingdom, which Brussels says is impossible.

"If the choice is ultimately between remaining in office or implementing the protocol in its present form, then the only option for any unionist minister would be to cease to hold such office," Donaldson said in a speech in Belfast.

The power-sharing executive's fate would be clear within weeks, he said, describing the issue as the region's worst constitutional crisis in its 100 year history.

Northern Irish unionists have been infuriated by the region's post-Brexit status, which was the most contentious issue during London's negotiations to leave the EU.

To avoid border checks between the British-ruled region and the rest of Ireland, Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed to let some EU rules remain in force in Northern Ireland, with checks on some goods arriving from the rest of the United Kingdom.

London now says the arrangement known as the Northern Irish protocol isn't working and must be changed; the EU has ruled out any renegotiation, though it says it will look at ways of easing implementation.

Johnson's spokesperson said: "We believe that the challenges the DUP and others have set out illustrates that the protocol in its current form is simply not sustainable".

The power-sharing government formed from the main parties supporting and opposing British rule of Northern Ireland is one of the central stipulations of the 1998 peace agreement that ended three decades of conflict in the region.

Donaldson said the DUP would also immediately halt cooperation with the government of the Republic of Ireland, another measure called for under the peace deal.

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It would block any additional steps taken at ports to police the Brexit trade restrictions.

"What won't work is mere tinkering or the introduction of a few flexibilities," Donalsdon said. "A piecemeal solution is not going to work."

Donaldson was due later on Thursday to meet European Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic, visiting Belfast for talks on how to ease the protocol's impact.

Donaldson, who took over as DUP leader in June, is facing the party's first defeat in regional elections in 16 years next May, with one opinion poll putting it in third place among unionist parties on 13%. If it is not the largest party, it would no longer have the power to block power-sharing.

"The DUP is clearly in panic mode, driven by poor opinion polls," said Mary Lou McDonald, head Sinn Fein, the main party opposing British rule. She described the speech as a "reckless, irresponsible and short-sighted election stunt."

(Reporting by Amanda FergusonAdditional reporting by Kylie MacLellanWriting by Conor HumphriesEditing by Kevin Liffey, Timothy Heritage, Peter Graff)
QUITO (Reuters) - Ecuador has reached a new staff-level agreement with the IMF that could result in $1.5 billion in new disbursements this year following promises by President Guillermo Lasso's government to cut spending, the finance minister said on Wednesday.

The South American nation last year struck a $6.5 billion deal with the multilateral lender to help revive an economy that for years struggled under low oil prices and was further weakened by a brutal coronavirus outbreak.

"We've been in talks with the (International) Monetary Fund about how to reorient the program that was in place with the IMF to align it with the objectives and priorities of the current government," Simon Cueva said in a news conference.

"The current government seeks economic recovery and sustained growth, and to ensure fiscal equilibrium in the medium term," the finance minister added.

Lasso, who was elected this year, inherited the IMF program from former President Lenin Moreno, who faced massive street protests in 2019 following efforts to close the fiscal gap by limiting fuel subsidies.

Moreno walked back that measure in the face of a week of unrest led by indigenous protesters, highlighting the complex situation facing any Ecuadorean government that seeks to cut its fiscal deficit.

Lasso this month said the government would halve the deficit to $2.4 billion in 2022.

Cueva said the Lasso administration was preparing a fiscal reform that would not affect the country's poor and that additional tax revenue would come from high-income brackets.

"We will not touch the issue of the VAT tax," he said, referring to the value-added tax that tends to have a greater impact on lower-income people.

He declined to specify how much revenue would rise and how much spending would fall, saying he preferred to wait until the IMF provides full approval to the deal.

(Reporting by Alexandra Valencia and Brian Ellsworth; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
Facebook admits a level of bias in that people are "shown ads they may be interested in"

Facebook has been accused of breaking equality law in the way it handles job adverts.

Campaign group Global Witness said it failed to prevent discriminatory targeting of ads and its algorithm was biased in choosing who would see them.

In an experiment, almost all Facebook users shown adverts for mechanics were men, while ads for nursery nurses were seen almost exclusively by women.

Facebook says its system shows people ads they may be most interested in.

Global Witness submitted two job ads for approval, asking Facebook not to show:

one to women

the other to anyone over the age of 55

And the social-media giant approved both ads for publication, although it did ask the organisation to tick a box saying it would not discriminate against these groups.

Global Witness pulled the adverts before they were published.

Facebook said: "Our system takes into account different kinds of information to try and serve people ads they will be most interested in and we are reviewing the findings within this report."

Global Witness said it was shocked by its findings

In 2019, a legal case was brought in the US over house-related adverts on Facebook the US Department of Housing and Urban Development alleged discriminated on the basis of ethnicity.

The social network has since agreed it would not allow discriminatory ads of this kind in the United States and Canada.

And it says it is exploring extending the limits on the targeting of job, housing and credit ads to other countries.

"The fact that it is possible to do this on Facebook in the UK is particularly shocking," Naomi Hirst, who led Global Witness's investigation, said.

But the campaign group is even more concerned by what it found out about how Facebook's system handled ads for which the recruiter did not specify a target audience.

Nursery nurses

Global Witness created four job ads, linked to real vacancies on the indeed.com platform, for nursery nurses, pilots, mechanics and psychologists.

The group specified only the ads should be seen by UK adults.

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"That meant that it was entirely up to Facebook's algorithm to decide who to show the ads to," Ms Hirst said, "and what it decided appears to us to be downright sexist."

Of the people shown an ad for:

mechanics, 96% were men

nursery nurses, 95% were female

airline pilots, 75% were men

psychologists, 77% were women.

The algorithm is designed to ensure as many people as possible click on the ads - but Global Witness says it is perpetuating and even amplifying biases already built into recruitment.

Previously, for example, jobs for mechanics may have been advertised in magazines aimed at men.

"The difference here," Ms Hirst said, "is that if you are a woman looking for a job as a mechanic, you could just as easily go to a shop and buy that magazine as your male peer.

"It's just simply not true online."

'Discriminatory practices'

Global Witness asked barrister Schona Jolly QC to examine its evidence.

And in a submission to the UK Equality and Human Rights Commission, she wrote: "Facebook's system itself may, and does appear to, lead to discriminatory outcomes."

Global Witness has also contacted the information commissioner about what it describes as the discriminatory practices resulting from the way Facebook processes data for job adverts.

Ravi Naik, a data-rights lawyer acting for Global Witness, said its concern was Facebook's advertising mechanisms might lead to the social network's customers breaching equality laws.

"That is massively consequential because Facebook's entire business model is advertising and if that business model results in discriminatory practices, that undermines the ability of Facebook to operate properly in this country," he added.
Facebook, Google's YouTube and Twitter will fight a new Texas law cracking down on social media companies for allegedly censoring conservative speech and former President Donald Trump.

Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican who publicly backed the legislation, signed the bill Thursday, making Texas the second state to target companies for restricting or removing content or accounts for violating their rules.

"There is a dangerous movement by some social media companies to silence conservative ideas and values," Abbott said during a news conference. "This is wrong and we will not allow it in Texas."

The Texas law, passed in the final days of the second special session called by Abbott, would allow any state resident banned from a social media platform for their political views to sue the platform.

Do Facebook and Twitter censor conservatives? Claims rally Republican base

Talking about abortion online in Texas? You may face legal risks

The state attorney general also would be able to sue on behalf of a user or a group of users.

It is similar to a Florida law that was blocked in June by a federal judge one day before it could take effect.

Trade groups representing the technology industry pledged to challenge the law on the same basis they challenged the Florida law which, they say, has the same First Amendment flaws and is unconstitutional.

"The same outcome will almost certainly occur in Texas, Steve DelBianco, NetChoice's president, said.

"Moderation of user posts is crucial to keeping the internet safe for Texas families, but this bill would put the Texas government in charge of content policies," he said.

Proponents of the new law hailed its passage.

"Texas new law, House Bill 20, is a paramount move taken by Lone Star legislators to protect the free speech rights of their constituents," said Samantha Fillmore, state government relations manager for conservative think tank The Heartland Institute.

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"There is no question that big tech is integral to free speech in todays day and age," she said. "Because of this, Big Tech can no longer unilaterally decide who can say what without being held accountable."

Dozens of states are considering legislation to restrict how social media platforms regulate people's speech, though few have gotten this far.

These bills resonate with conservatives who believe their First Amendment rights are violated when social media posts are labeled or removed or when their accounts are banned for violating the policies of social media platforms. Trump's suspensions from the major platforms inspired the new bills.

"This move by Texas, a heavy hitter in national politics, is likely to inspire other states to take such measures to show their citizens that America is, and will continue to be, a place for free thought, speech, and expression, Fillmore said.

Texas law spurs First Amendment debate

The First Amendment protects people from censorship by the federal government, not from content moderation decisions by private companies.

Social media companies say they don't target conservatives, only harmful speech that violates their rules.

Texas House Democrats warned during a recent hearing that the new law would stop social media companies from taking down harmful content. They offered amendments that would have allowed the removal of posts promoting Holocaust denial, terrorism and vaccine disinformation but were defeated.

Forcing social media platforms to stop moderating content, whether its misinformation or hate speech, is going to have real world consequences," said Adam Kovacevich, CEO of Chamber of Progress, a tech industry coalition that includes Facebook and Google.

"Whats said online doesnt just stay online, it spills over into peoples lives and impacts our health, our democracy, and our communities, he said in a statement to USA TODAY.

New laws punish social media for 'censoring' conservatives, Trump

Florida was the first state to push through legislation when Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Trump ally, signed a bill in May that penalizes social media companies for removing or barring the speech of politicians.

However, a federal judge temporarily blocked the new law after NetChoice and the Computer & Communications Industry Association  trade groups that represent Facebook, Google and other tech companies  sued. DeSantis is appealing.

The Texas law goes further than Florida's because it applies to all users and prevents social media platforms from making decisions based on the viewpoint expressed in the post.

The Republican claim that powerful tech companies are biased against conservatives is emerging as a top issue to rally the base in the 2022 midterm elections.

Both Abbott and DeSantis are widely seen as possible GOP 2024 presidential contenders coming from big states with large electoral votes. Abbott is facing his first challenging Republican primary to be reelected governor.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks at a news conference in June.

Big Techs efforts to silence conservative viewpoints is un-American, un-Texan and unacceptable and pretty soon its going to be against the law in the state of Texas, Abbott said at a news conference announcing similar legislation in March.

The Heartland Institute recently estimated that 70 bills in 30 states are challenging big tech censorship.

The Republican claim that powerful tech companies are biased against and "cancel" conservatives is emerging as a top issue to rally the base in the 2022 midterm elections.

The GOP is betting it will boost voter registration, turnout and fundraising as it tries to retake the U.S. House and Senate, political observers say. It also could help Republicans at the state level.

Trump, who was banned from the major social media platforms after the Jan. 6 insurrection, escalated his war with Big Tech in July when he filed suit against Facebook, Google and Twitter and their CEOs, claiming the companies violated his First Amendment rights.

Trump and Republicans fundraised off the lawsuit, though legal experts say it has virtually no chance of success.

Is mainstream social media biased against conservatives?

The perception that tech companies and the billionaire CEOs who run them are biased against conservatives has been around for a long time, but intensified as Trump made social media abuses a major plank of his administration and reelection campaign.

After he lost the presidency, Trump attacked tech companies for labeling or removing posts that spread falsehoods about the outcome of the presidential election.

Complaints of ideological bias come from across the political spectrum, but its difficult to prove social media platforms are targeting any one group. Tech companies disclose little about how they decide what content is allowed and what is not.

Researchers from New York University, the University of Virginia and elsewhere say theyve found no evidence to support GOP grievances that social media companies stifle conservative voices. If anything, they say, social media platforms amplify the voices of conservatives, shaping the worldviews of millions of voters.

But for some conservatives, the 2020 election proved Big Tech's ideological bias. They point to tech companies throttling the spread of a New York Post article which made uncorroborated claims about Hunter Bidens business dealings, the Trump social media bans and the takedown of Parler, a social media platform popular with the political right.

Nine in 10 Republicans and independents who lean toward the Republican Party say its at least somewhat likely that social media platforms censor political viewpoints they find objectionable, up slightly from 85% in 2018, according to an August report from the Pew Research Center.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Facebook, Google's YouTube and Twitter to fight Texas censorship law
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. AP Photo/Mark Lennihan

Global Witness said it investigated Facebook's job ad targeting system for potential bias.

The nonprofit campaign group said the system " appears to operate in a discriminatory manner ."

Facebook said it was "reviewing the findings" of the investigation.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Facebook's job advert targeting system appears to discriminate based on gender and age, a non-profit campaign group has said.

Global Witness said it investigated the system with unpublished and published posts, and concluded that it appeared to show signs of bias.

In a report shared with Insider, Global Witness said it placed two job ads with Facebook "with the intention of using different forms of discriminatory targeting: one ad was targeted to exclude women, the other to exclude people over the age of 55." Facebook accepted both ads for publication, seemingly in violation of its own non-discrimination policy, Global Witness said.

Global Witness said it agreed to abide by the non-discrimination policy when placing the ads. It said it pulled the ads before they were published.

Global Witness said it also ran a separate test to see whether Facebook's algorithms showed signs of automated bias. The group said it placed four ads for real job openings, for mechanics, preschool nurses, pilots, and psychologists. Global Witness said it ticked a box saying it wanted Facebook to show the ads to the people most likely to click on them.

The group said that after the ads were published, it found that 96% of users shown the ad for mechanic jobs were men, and 95% of users shown the ad for preschool nurse jobs were women. Global Witness said that 75% of users shown the ad for pilot jobs were men, and 77% who were shown the ad for psychologist jobs were women.

Naomi Hirst, head of Global Witness' Digital Threats campaign, said: "It's really shocking that Facebook's own algorithm appears to target job ads in such a discriminatory way. Targeting adverts for nursery workers at women and mechanic jobs at men - what century does Facebook think we're living in?"

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A Facebook spokesperson said: "Our system takes into account different kinds of information to try and serve people ads they will be most interested in, and we are reviewing the findings within this report.

"We've been exploring expanding limitations on targeting options for job, housing and credit ads to other regions beyond the US and Canada, and plan to have an update in the coming weeks."

Global Witness said it had asked the UK Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to investigate whether Facebook's practices break the equality laws. It said it had also asked the UK data watchdog, the Information Commissioner, to investigate whether Facebook may have broken Europe's stringent data protection laws.

Concerns have been raised previously about apparent discrimination within Facebook's ad targeting system.

The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) filed charges against Facebook in March 2019, alleging that its ad targeting system enabled housing discrimination. A month later, a research paper suggested that ads for housing and jobs were discriminating against users on the basis of ethnicity and gender.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The claim: Photo comparison shows a glacier in the Arctic before climate change and now

On Aug. 29, political scientist Ian Bremmer shared side-by-side images that compare how an Arctic glacier has changed over time.

The black-and-white image on top of the post shows a person in a rowboat looking at a glacier-covered mountain range. A color image at the bottom shows a person in a motorized boat looking at an identical mountain range, but the glacier now could be mistaken for snowcover.

2 Arctic photos, before climate change and now Bremmer captioned the photo, which has garnered more than 8,400 reactions, 1,000 comments and 3,100 shares.

The images do authentically show a glacier's change over many years, but the more recent one was taken 18 years ago.

Fact check: A 1912 article about burning coal and climate change is authentic

Bremmer told USA TODAY he posted the images to highlight the devastating effect climate change is having on certain parts of the world.

"1.5, 2, 3 degrees of warming are abstractions to most people," he wrote. "Horrible fires and storms make headlines but they lack permanence. These two pictures, side by side, are stark and lasting: heres what climate change means for the planet. You cant deny it, you cant ignore it, you cant forget it."

Svalbard, Norway.

Image shows Norwegian island in the early 20th century and 2003

The side-by-side images were created by Swedish photojournalist Christian Aslund as part of a project with Greenpeace. The project involved photographers recreating environmental images from the early 20th century to capture how places have changed over time.

The mountain range is in Svalbard, a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean that is located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole.

In an email to USA TODAY, Aslund confirmed that he took the more recent photo in Svalbard in 2003.

He told USA TODAY the earlier image came from an archive of the Norwegian Polar Institute. According to Aslund, the archival image was taken between 1920 and 1930 by an unknown photographer.

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Fact check: Photos of Hawaii lighthouse don't disprove sea-level rise

Its the exact same location and no photo manipulation, he said. Both of the images are taken during the summer season.

A pair of polar bear cubs trail their mother in Svalbard, Norway, in this file photo.

In a 2017 National Geographic article, Aslund explained how the project required his team to track down where archival images were taken and follow the original photographers' steps to recreate the image in the modern landscape.

Today the same Svalbard mountain range likely would look even more different. Over the last several decades, scientists have tracked how rising temperatures in Svalbard have led glaciers to melt.

Aslund told National Geographic that knowledge of climate change was significantly less common and accepted in 2003. He said he would be interested to recreate the project again to see how glaciers have changed since the early 2000s.

Ice and Water by Audun Lie Dahl, Norway -- The Brasvellbreen glacier moves southwards from one of the ice caps covering the Svalbard Archipelago, Norway. Where it meets the sea, the glacier wall is so high that only the waterfalls are visible, so Audun used a drone to capture this unique perspective.

More images from the glacier comparison project are viewable on Aslunds professional website.

Bremmers claim that the archival image shows the glacier before climate change is slightly misleading.

Climate change is a continual process, but scientists note the rate of change has significantly accelerated in the last century. This acceleration is unprecedented in the last millennium and has been proven to be the result of human activity since the mid-1900s.

It would be more accurate to say the images compare a glacier at the beginning of human-accelerated climate change and 18 years ago.

Our rating: Missing context

We rate the claim that a photo comparison shows a glacier in the Arctic before climate change and now MISSING CONTEXT because without additional information it could be misleading. The photo comparison was created with two images of the same location in Svalbard, Norway, taken in the early 20th century and in 2003. The same location likely looks different now as glaciers have continued to melt in Svalbard over the last two decades. The underlying idea that glaciers in the Arctic look very different than they did a century ago due to rapid climate change is accurate.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or electronic newspaper replica here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fact check: A photo glacier comparison is real but somewhat outdated
Three Orlando men are facing 109 counts of burglary each after they broke into at least 109 units at a Hollywood storage facility, police said.

Anthony Rosario, 34, Victor Molina, 33, and Osmany Sanchez, 21, were arrested early Tuesday morning, and a fourth man is still on the loose, according to Hollywood police, who said they also found eight guns and two kilos of cocaine.

According to police, video shows two men entering the Extra Space Storage facility, at 1440 S. Dixie Highway near Wiley Street, with a crowbar and two others later entering through the same door. They were also seen carrying a ladder and tools commonly used in burglaries, authorities said.

Police said the burglars used the ladder and crowbars to access and enter the units and were stacking the stolen items near a stairway.

A man walking his dog called police around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday after he noticed motion sensor lights going on and off on the buildings third floor and heard sounds that resembled items being broken.

Roughly 30 minutes later, Hollywood police, Hallandale Beach police and a Broward Sheriffs Office aerial unit began a search around the storage facility.

Police said three men exited the storage facility and ran, crossing railroad tracks, jumping a fence and going into Poinciana Park, at 1301 S. 21st Avenue.

The trio was caught by police not far from the storage facility. The fourth man was not with them.

According to police, the manager of the facility said the alarm company never alerted to anyone breaking in.

Police havent yet put a value on the items taken or the damage done to the storage facility.

Molina, who has a $219,000 bond, and Sanchez, who has a $220,000 bond, are being held at the Main Jail. Rosario, who has a $382,000 bond, is being held at the North Broward Jail. Each also faces one count of possession of burglary tools with intent to use, and resisting arrest.

Anyone with information on the remaining suspect is asked to call Hollywood police at 954-764-4357 (HELP) or email Hollywoodpdtips@hollywoodfl.org or call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477 (TIPS).
Afghan residents and family members of the victims gather next to a damaged vehicle inside a house, day after a US drone airstrike in Kabul on 30 August, 2021. ((Photo by WAKIL KOHSAR / AFP))

Ahmad Naser came to Kabul to escape the Taliban. The 30-year-old had been a guard at the American militarys Camp Lawton, in Herat, and had applied for a US Special Immigrant Visa to leave the country, given the risk of reprisals. His fears were directed at the wrong army.

In the early evening of 29 August, the day before the last American military planes left Afghanistan, a US drone lit up Khwaja Burga , a densely populated district in Kabul. The strike killed a total of 10 civilians , including Mr Naser and seven children, according to family members. They had reportedly been coming outside to greet relative Zemari Ahmadi, also killed, who worked with a US aid group distributing food to refugees .

The US initially praised the strike for eliminating an imminent Isis-K threat to the Kabul airport, adding that it didnt have indications of any apparent civilian deaths in the residential neighborhood it just hit with a missile. US Central Command (CENTCOM) eventually issued an update , saying, It is unclear what may have happened, and we are investigating further, though it maintained it had foiled an Isis plot. Relatives of the deceased insist no one present was a terrorist.

The Americans said the airstrike killed Daesh members, a neighbor told TheWashington Post, using the Arabic abbreviation for Isis. Where is Daesh here? Were these children Daesh?

After the Kabul strike, Pentagon spokesperson John F. Kirby told NPR: No military on Earth does as much as we do to try to prevent civilian casualties.

Even if that is true, Ahmad Naser will very likely be forgotten in the US, where the vast, uncounted mass of civilians slain by Americans remains far outside the popular understanding of 9/11. On that day, 2,977 people were killed, and the US has avenged these innocents many hundreds of times over. American troops and operatives have killed more than 350,000 civilians since.

But neither the public, nor the victims families, will likely ever get a full accounting of the deaths. The American government has steadfastly avoided true accountability on the War on Terror, from explicitly refusing to count bodies, to half-heartedly committing to transparency, to outright revelling in the killing of innocents.

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Each year, America and the world mourns those lost in the atrocities of 9/11. Yet 20 years later, we still dont know how many others should be mourned along with them for the atrocities that followed.

More than 363,000 civilians have been killed in the War on Terror, according to an estimate from Brown Universitys Costs of War Project . US airstrikes alone have killed as many as 48,308 civilians, according to conflict monitors Airwars. And many times more people have been slain after the battles are over, through destroyed infrastructure, displacement, and decimated healthcare systems. Cumulatively, the overall civilian death toll could very well exceed 1 million people when taking into account indirect deaths from war that come from destroyed infrastructure and hospitals, disease, and displacement, Neta C. Crawford, a Boston University political science professor who directs the Costs of War project, told The Independent.

And thats just what we know from afar.

Because Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Pakistan, Yemen and other post-9/11 battlefields are war zones  where the US has launched more than an estimated 90,000 strikes  large-scale attempts from researchers to count the dead remain difficult.

Its going to be very hard until these places are peaceful to figure that out, Ms Crawford said.

The biggest hurdle, however, has been the US government itself. After years of agitation from families, rights groups, and journalists, the US military began publicly disclosing how many civilians it kills each year in 2018, but it regularly undercounts that figure to the point of near-irrelevance. A New York Times investigation, for example, found that during the air campaign against Isis in Iraq, 31 times more civilians were killed than officially acknowledged.

The US military tends to look into cases when someone else, be they a grief-stricken family or a crusading journalist, demands more information. Some estimates suggest two thirds of US casualty estimates come from referrals, rather than internal investigations. Inquiries that do go forward, on attacks such as drone strikes, are often threadbare at best.

Theyre not speaking to local witnesses, said Aisha Dennis of Reprieve, a civil rights organisation that advocates for victims of drone strikes. All of the basic investigatory tools that you would normally use to find out what happened in a crime scene or when somebody has been killed ordinarily, theyre not using those.

The Independent requested comment from CENTCOM, which oversees US forces in the Middle East, on the number of civilians killed during the War on Terror. A spokesperson recommended submitting a Freedom of Information Act request, a public records request that often takes months or years to get a satisfactory reply to, and declined to answer policy questions about how the military counts civilian deaths.

Many attacks that kill civilians are never officially acknowledged in the first place. In 2019, the Trump administration limited the number of air strikes US forces had to disclose to the public, and numerous attacks go unconfirmed, even if the effects on the ground are very real.

Its a manifestation of the project of elite impunity that has always run through this entire enterprise and a manifestation of American exceptionalism, whereby the people that America kills are not somehow as real human beings as Americans are, said Pulitzer Prize-winning national security reporter Spencer Ackerman, author of Reign of Terror, a recent history of the War on Terror. The United States has made detailed announcements every time a service member was killed in the War on Terror. They know how to count this. They choose not to do it.

This impunity has been a central feature of the War on Terror for the last 20 years, regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican was in the White House.

During the Bush administration, American officials talked openly about how unimportant they felt counting civilian deaths was. Their argument was both that body counts were  not knowable , as a CENTCOM spokesperson once put it, but also not helpful. They worried a detailed picture of the war could turn the public against it, as had happened during the Vietnam War.

Having been a rifle platoon leader in Vietnam, asking questions from Washington about how many dead today is truly counterproductive, general Peter Pace said in 2002 .

You know, we dont do body counts, general Tommy R. Franks said that same year .

As late as 2006, well into serious fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, George Bush told a group of conservative reporters, We have made a conscious effort not to be a body-count team.

(Getty Images)

That was a lie, said Chris Woods, co-founder of Airwars, a group that meticulously tracks civilian casualties.

The information was always there, Mr Woods said, it just hasnt been made public.

We found out from the WikiLeaks releases on Afghanistan and Iraq that of course the US was counting civilian casualties, not only from its own actions, but from terrorists like Al Qaeda. It just wasnt releasing its own information.

As a result, the early, crucial years of the War on Terror remain as factually hazy, even as their geopolitical impact was fundamental.

There was a measure of hope that the administration of Barack Obama, a former constitutional law professor, would be different, more humane.

In 2009, the commander of US forces in Afghanistan at the time, general Stanley McChrystal, made the rules for airstrikes far stricter, drastically reducing the number of unintended casualties for the next few years.

Were going to lose this f****** war if we dont stop killing civilians, he told his staff , according to his memoir.

Mr Obama also instituted more inter-agency deliberation on issues like civilian harm before launching strikes, and late in his administration, signed an executive order mandating the US train its personnel to protect civilians, accept responsibility for attacks, and make regular public reports about strikes outside of traditional war zones, explaining the general differences between official and NGO analyses of the killings.

But President Obama was no dove. He pioneered the most controversial weapon in the US arsenal: unmanned combat drones, launching 10 times more strikes than his predecessor, publicly disclosing casualty numbers that fell far below outsider estimates or made dubious claims to killing not a single civilian .

Civilians and non-combatants were, and are, often killed in signature strikes, launched not at a known target, but rather individuals who seemed like they might be terrorists based on their personal networks, as well activities such as driving in convoys or carrying weapons, a common practice for non-militant young men in war zones in the Middle East.

Mistakes were rampant. In Yemen, for example, a cluster of five US drone strikes and a special forces raid killed 34 members of two families, including nine children, the youngest being a three-month-old baby shot by a US Navy SEAL. One of these attacks, in 2013, killed 12 men in a wedding convoy, all farmers and construction workers, leaving 73 children without breadwinners.

The Yemeni government and United Nations both condemned the strike. The US has never issued an apology.

People in the village are afraid to gather, Abdullah Mabkhout Al Ameri, some of whose family was killed during the strikes, told Reprieve. Everybody feels that they are a target. We thought these drones only kill wanted people, never innocent people. Some people now when they walk, they just keep staring at the sky.

The unmanned aircraft, often portrayed as silent, surgically precise weapons, make an audible buzz for those living underneath them. For many, its a sound on the numerous, obscure battlefields of the War on Terror, that stands for accidental death far more than intentional peacekeeping.

Whatever safeguards were in place drifted off as the Obama administration confronted Isis in Iraq and Syria. The battle for Mosul, which one general called the most constant heavy combat that we have [seen] probably since before Vietnam, killed as many as eleven thousand civilians, 10 times more than the official US estimate.

Its been shockingly bad, Mr Woods, of Airwars, said. There have been periods when the US has done a better job of holding itself to account, admitting it, reducing it. Those periods are often short and often come about after really catastrophic local casualty numbers. The lessons that shouldve been institutionalised are almost immediately lost.

Donald Trump, as he so often did, said the quiet part of US politics out loud. He explicitly fantasised about going after civilians on his campaign to bomb the sh** out of Isis and stop fighting a politically correct war, as he once put it.

You have to take out their families, he told Fox News in 2015, as he prepared to run for president.

Trump said he would bomb the s*** out of Isis (Getty Images)

He kept his campaign promises, ramping up the drone war even further in places like Somalia, and unleashing so many strikes on Afghanistan that one study found civilian casualties spiked 330 percent by December 2020. Meanwhile, the year before, Mr Trump rolled back the Obama mandate about disclosing civilian deaths outside conventional war zones, turning already murky, unofficial US wars into full-on data dark zones.

More than that, Donald Trump went out of his way to protect US service members accused of deliberately targeting civilians. He pardoned Clint Lorance , an Army lieutenant serving a 19-year sentence for ordering his men to fire on Afghan civilians. Mr Trump intervened to stop the war crimes prosecution of Eddie Gallagher , a Navy SEAL turned in by his own squad mates for alleged abuses like stabbing a teen Isis captive with a hunting knife, and targeting women and children while boasting that  burqas were flying .

Both men deny wrongdoing. Mr Trump called them  great warriors  at a rally in Florida in 2019.

Whether the Biden administration will work against this pattern remains to be seen. The administration has withdrawn from Afghanistan entirely, and, as of July, had reportedly conducted an all-time low number of drone strikes . But a promised government-wide review of counter-terrorism policy is behind schedule, and the president has vowed, like three other presidents before him, to go after terror groups in Afghanistan.

To Isis-K: We are not done with you yet, Mr Biden said in a 31 August speech at the White House.

With no US military presence inside of Afghanistan, that will all but certainly mean more drone killings. That may mean more killed like Ahmad Naser and his family in Kabul.

Even if Mr Biden changes course, well never know how many civilians the US has killed in the 9/11 wars, according to Mr Ackerman, the Reign of Terror author.

It made the end of their existence an official secret, he said. It made them, in death, un-people. This isnt just about what the US tells itself. Its about what the US acknowledges it has done to hundreds of thousands of people.

Many endeavour to never forget 9/11. But for those civilians killed by America, the US government has never allowed the public to remember.

Read More

Its coming faster than I can run: I was there the day the Twin Towers came down

Marcy Borders: The tragic story of Dust Lady and other 9/11 survivors who developed fatal health problems

Im so thankful for that message: The final calls made by 9/11 victims that still comfort grieving relatives

My dad was in the Towers on 9/11. He survived  then we squandered the years after

How 9/11 made autocrats stronger, terrorists smarter and ordinary people less free
Rebecca Kleefisch, who served as Wisconsins lieutenant governor under Gov. Scott Walker, announced Thursday that she will seek the states Republican nomination for governor next year.

"Im a mom, a cancer survivor and someone whos had to clip coupons to help pay the bills every month," Kleefisch said in a launch video. "Im on your side because Ive walked in your shoes."

A TV news anchor in Milwaukee before entering politics, Kleefisch offers Republicans a well-known candidate to run against Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who narrowly unseated Walker in 2018. The close result that year, followed by Joe Bidens slim Wisconsin victory over Donald Trump in the presidential election, ensures the 2022 race for governor will command national attention.

Kleefisch's video opened with images from the fiery protests and unrest that followed the police shooting of Jacob Blake last year in Kenosha.

"Tony Evers entire term has been marked by failure and weakness," she said, criticizing his response to the crisis.

Walker, with whom Kleefisch survived a 2012 recall election triggered by the then-governors fight with public-employee unions, said in 2019 that Kleefisch would make a hell of a great governor. But Walkers blessing will not spare Kleefisch what could be a messy primary fight.

State Rep. John Macco and Bill McCoshen, a lobbyist who worked for former Gov. Tommy Thompson, are considering campaigns. And Kevin Nicholson, who lost a Senate primary in 2018, would most likely run for governor if U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson  a staunch Trump defender who described the Jan. 6 Capitol riot as by and large peaceful protest other than some agitators  seeks re-election next year.

Reince Priebus  the former Republican National Committee chairman who served as Trumps first White House chief of staff and has been mentioned as a gubernatorial prospect  told conservative Wisconsin talk radio host Jay Weber this week that hes not planning to run. Priebus, a past Wisconsin GOP chairman, also praised Kleefisch.

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She's very good, I think, on television and in front of audiences, which would be night and day compared to a guy who's not a leader, who isn't very exciting, said Priebus, drawing contrasts between Kleefisch and Evers.

A poll last month by Marquette Law School found 50 percent of voters approved of Evers job performance. A plurality of voters, 46 percent, had a favorable opinion of the governor. His re-election campaign team and allies signaled this week that they would campaign against Kleefisch by branding her as an extension of the politically turbulent Walker era.

Gov. Evers is someone who is just trusted as a good person, by voters across the political spectrum, and it seems like Kleefisch is intent on running a very niche campaign oriented to primary voters, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chairman Ben Wikler said.

Kleefisch has been preparing her gubernatorial bid for months, traveling the state to meet with GOP activists and using her nonprofit organization  the 1848 Project, named for the year Wisconsin became a state  to advance conservative policy ideas. A 16-page agenda her group released last week includes broad pitches for medical freedom and election reform at a time when opposition to Covid-19 vaccine mandates and baseless claims about widespread voter fraud are energizing the Republican base.

Her record isnt a mystery to anyone, and she has only become more radical since leaving office, Evers spokesperson Sam Roecker said of Kleefisch. Gov. Evers has taken bold action to not only clean up the mess she left behind, but hes moving Wisconsin forward by making record investments in transportation and broadband expansion, restoring the states funding commitment to public schools and supporting small businesses across the state.

Kleefischs candidacy is the first piece of a complicated 2022 puzzle for Wisconsin Republicans. Johnsons intentions are the biggest mystery. The two-term senator, who already has Trumps endorsement for a third if he runs again, is in no hurry to decide. That has put Nicholson  who said he will run for governor or for Senate, depending on Johnsons plans  in a potentially awkward position. Whichever office he seeks might seem like his second choice.

Our society is dangerously off kilter, this is not a time to play games, and Ill run for one of these offices because we need people capable of doing hard things to lead, Nicholson said Wednesday in a statement provided by a spokesperson. Insiders, their endorsements and back room deals arent going to win general elections in 2022, and I advise the Republican establishment in Wisconsin to remember that, or risk learning the hard way again.
A sign posted at a job training center in Orange County in May 2020 advises people how to apply for emergency COVID relief funds. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

A former California government employee who once served time in prison for stealing state benefits meant for disabled people has agreed to plead guilty to federal fraud charges for another scam in which she siphoned more than $1.5 million in COVID relief payments.

In a plea agreement filed in U.S. District Court on Wednesday, Gabriela Llerenas, 49, of Perris, admitted to filing bogus jobless claims for pandemic-related benefits with the Employment Development Department, the state agency where she once worked. She now faces up to 20 years in federal prison and has agreed to forfeit $621,000 that she obtained through the scheme, according to the plea agreement.

The guilty plea delivers a significant victory to prosecutors who have been trying to address the widespread fraud that played out as states rushed to disperse billions in COVID relief funds. But with more than $11 billion believed to have been lost to fraudulent claims just in California, the case hardly moves the needle.

The latest scheme follows an earlier one Llerenas ran when she worked at the EDD handling disability insurance claims. She resigned in March 2002 after admitting that she authorized and pocketed fake disability benefits. She was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, according to court records.

In the current scheme, Llerenas, who also worked as a tax preparer, used the names and social security numbers of former tax clients to apply for emergency unemployment benefits that were part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that President Biden signed into law in March 2020, according to the plea agreement.

Under the law, business owners, self-employed workers, independent contractors, and others who may not have previously qualified for benefits were eligible to receive payments if the pandemic had impacted their ability to work.

Llerenas admitted that between April and October last year she received payments while posing as out of work cake decorators, waiters, and others. In some cases, she filed the claims without the people knowing and in others she worked in cahoots with the people, the plea agreement said.

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When a person was in on the scam with her, Llerenas admitted to charging the person a fee for filing the application. In at least one case, she told the claimant that she was still employed at EDD and demanded an additional payment for releasing the money to the person, the plea agreement shows.

She also acknowledged that she sometimes inflated the amount of income a person had allegedly lost in order to maximize the payouts from the state.

In an attempt to avoid detection, Llerenas said in the plea agreement that she had payments sent to several addresses including her residence, her husbands business, her mothers apartment and friends' homes.

In total, she was found to have received 197 of the debit cards EDD uses to issue benefits with at least $1,633,487 loaded on them, according to court filings.

An attorney for Llerenas could not be reached for comment.

The case highlights efforts by state and federal authorities to go after fraudsters who exploited California's outdated system for processing unemployment claims during the pandemic. In May, the U.S. Department of Justice established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to coordinate investigations across various agencies, and the U.S. Attorney's Office in Los Angeles has made such cases a priority.

In July former federal prosecutor McGregor Scott was appointed as a special counsel to assist in state investigations of bogus relief claims. As U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of California, Scott led a task force of prosecutors that found evidence that thousands of claims were paid out in the name of California prisoners at a cost of more than $400 million.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
(Fox News)

Fox News host Greg Gutfeld told former President Donald Trump that he lost friends over his support for him.

The admission was made in an interview Mr Gutfeld did with Mr Trump, which started with Mr Gutfeld describing the toll his pro-Trump stance had taken on his personal life.

Mr Trump upended the political landscape when he launched is unconventional run for the White House in 2015 after years of speculation that he would do so.

There was an irrational response to you, Mr Gutfeld said. And I lost friends when I would defend you.

But then you gain friends, Mr Trump replied, a statement the Fox host seemed to agree with.

I didnt listen to my family members who were voting for you, Mr Gutfeld continued. When I tuned and started listening, then I lost all of my other friends.

Some viewers found it odd that a laugh track was present during the interview, including journalists Aaron Rupar and Jan Wolfe.

In response to the confusion, Fox News told Raw Story that Greg Gutfeld parodies current events and converses on key issues, bringing a comedic twist to the news. Additionally, Gutfeld interviews newsmakers and culture critics on the major headlines of the week.

It is rumoured that Mr Trump is planning to run in the 2024 presidential election. However, earlier this week, he appeared to upset the crowd at his rally after he promoted getting the Covid-19 vaccine.

But I recommend taking the vaccines. I did it, its good, take the vaccines, he told a rally in Cullman, a town in Alabama, a message that was met with boos.
Fox News

Fox News legal analyst Gregg Jarrett essentially accused Vice President Kamala Harris of being an accessory to murder on Wednesday night, citing Harris single tweet in support of a Minnesota bail fund last year to make his case.

Last week, 47-year-old George Howard was arrested and charged with second-degree murder over a road rage incident that left 38-year-old Luis Ortiz dead. Howard had been out on an $11,500 bond over a domestic assault case. His bond was paid by the Minnesota Freedom Fund, a non-profit group that pays bail for individuals arrested and awaiting trial.

The Minnesota Freedom Fund, meanwhile, quickly rose to prominence during the racial justice protests that followed the death of George Floyd last year, as the organization called for donations to help bail out protesters and activists. At that time, Harris and liberal celebrities promoted the fund on their social media accounts.

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Harris involvement with the fund appears to stop with that tweet and a Facebook post. That hasnt stopped Republicans from repeatedly accusing Harris of literally bailing out violent criminals. (The vice presidents office has previously declined to say whether Harris donated to MFF herself.)

While the news of MFF bailing out Howard allowed for conservatives to renew their attacks on the vice-president and tie the bail fund directly to her, Jarrett took it several steps further during an appearance on Fox News Hannity on Wednesday evening.

Calling for a congressional commission to investigate the violence at protests in the wake of Floyds murder, host Sean Hannity then argued that Harris is aiding and abetting a lot of the crime thats occurring in America.

Well, one could argue, Sean, but for Kamala Harris, Luis Ortiz would be alive today, Jarrett declared, before quickly adding: She didnt pull the trigger but she championed the fund that set the man free who did pull the trigger.

After Jarrett all but called Harris a murderer, he went on to accuse the vice president of victimizing innocent individuals, claiming she helped to set free other violent criminals.

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This will shock you. Here are some of the other criminals that her fund put back on the streets he exclaimed, before noting that MFF had bailed out several other violent offenders.

So many innocent people were victimized but Vice President Harris obviously supports accused criminals over police, lawbreakers over law abiders, and we are all in America worse for it, an animated Jarrett concluded.

Well said, Hannity replied.

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BERLIN (AP)  Germany's foreign minister arrived in Libya on Thursday to reopen the country's embassy in Tripoli.

Today, we want to show with the reopening that Germany is and will remain a committed partner of Libya, Heiko Maas said upon his arrival in Tripoli. We want to have a voice in the Libyan capital again.

German diplomats left Libya in 2014 due to the country's instability and spiraling violence and worked from neighboring Tunisia.

In 2011, a NATO-backed uprising toppled and later killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi and led to the collapse of order in the North African country. The oil-rich country was long divided between a U.N.-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the countrys east, each backed by armed groups and foreign governments.

In April 2019, eastern-based commander Khalifa Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try to capture Tripoli. Hifters 14-month campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support of the U.N.-backed government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.

In October, a cease-fire agreement including a demand that all foreign fighters and mercenaries leave Libya within 90 days led to a deal on the elections in December and the transitional government that took office in February.

Germany has tried to act as an intermediary between warring parties in Libya in the past.

In June, Germany and the United Nations hosted a Libya conference in Berlin on the future of the crisis-ridden country. At the conference, Germany vowed to keep up pressure until all foreign forces have been withdrawn from Libya.

On Thursday, Maas praised the country's efforts to reach more stability over the past two years.

Today there's a national unity government, the oil blockade has been ended, and the weapons have mostly been silenced," Maas said, according to a statement from the German Foreign Ministry.

He added that Libya needs continued international engagement to achieve progress for all people in Libya.
By Hans Seidenstuecker and John O'Donnell

BERLIN/FRANKFURT (Reuters) -German prosecutors raided the finance and justice ministries on Thursday as part of an investigation into the governments anti-money laundering agency, putting a spotlight on Germany's failings in tackling financial crime.

The probe into the Financial Intelligence Unit, an agency of the finance ministry under Social Democrat chancellor candidate Olaf Scholz, is looking at whether it was told to ignore warnings of suspect payments to Africa.

The raids come at a pivotal moment for Scholz, who opinion polls suggest has a good chance of becoming German chancellor in national elections on Sept 26.

Scholz rebuffed criticism from lawmakers following the raids, but the episode casts a cloud because it refocuses attention on the ministry he runs. The FIU and BaFin, the financial regulator, which also answers to Scholz have been under scrutiny for failing to spot problems at payments firm Wirecard, which collapsed last year in Germany's biggest corporate fraud.

"This is a security risk for Germany," said lawmaker Fabio De Masi. "We need a financial police with criminal expertise. Germany is a paradise for criminals."

Scholz, speaking on a campaign stop in Potsdam, said he had had bolstered staff at the FIU agency to almost 500 from 165 and invested heavily in better equipping it.

He signalled his frustration with the raids, saying that prosecutors with questions "could have put them in writing".

The FIU declined to comment.

The probe comes as the country's anti-money laundering efforts are under review by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), a global body that groups countries from the United States to China, to tackle financial crime.

SUSPECT TRANSACTIONS

The FIU has long struggled to keep up with the tens of thousands of warnings it receives about suspect money transfers, according to people familiar with its work. It only stopped using fax machines to receive such reports from banks in the past few years, one German official has told Reuters.

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A spokesman for the public prosecutors said they launched the enquiry after receiving complaints that the FIU had not acted on millions of euros of suspect transactions, including to Africa, between 2018 and 2020.

He said they had searched the ministries to see whether the agency had been told to ignore the suspect money flows.

Prosecutors said the agency was alerted by banks because of concerns the money was linked to trafficking of arms and drugs and terrorism financing, saying that the FIU took note of the report but did not forward it to law enforcement agencies.

The prosecutors said they were also looking into the fact that since the FIU took over control of money laundering in 2017, reports of suspicious activity have dropped drastically.

They said that previous searches of the FIU had revealed that there had been extensive communication with the ministries that were searched on Thursday.

($1 = 0.8453 euros)

(Additional reporting by Hans Seidenstuecker, Christian Kraemer and Holger Hansen in Berlin and Tom Sims in Frankfurt; Editing by Jane Merriman and Carmel Crimmins)
Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Jerome Boateng was on Thursday fined 1.8 million euros ($2 million) by a court in Munich after being found guilty of assaulting his former partner three years ago.

The huge fine handed down by Munich regional court comes after Boateng was convicted of wilful bodily harm and insulting his former girlfriend, named as Sherin Senler.

After judge Kai Dingerdissen gave his verdict, Boateng hurried out of the courtroom, surrounded by bodyguards and drove off in a black SUV, which was pursued by photographers.

Prosecutor Stefanie Eckert had called for a suspended 18-month prison sentence and a fine of 1.5 million euros for what she described as a "toxic relationship".

Boateng, 33, who signed for French club Lyon last week after a decade at Bayern Munich, attacked the mother of his twin daughters during a Caribbean holiday in 2018.

The defender had earlier denied the allegations as he testified for almost two hours.

Earlier, the footballer's ex-girlfriend had told the court how he punched her, causing her to lose her breath for a moment during a heated argument while on a luxury holiday.

The incident happened in the weeks after the World Cup in Russia, when Boateng was in the Germany squad which was knocked out in the group stage.

Tensions were said to be running high between the former couple, who disagreed over living arrangements as Boateng chased a high-profile transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, which never materialised.

The court in Munich heard how an argument broke out over a game of cards.

- 'Bit me in the head' -

While giving evidence, Boateng's former partner described how he "pressed against my eye with his thumb, bit me in the head and pulled me to the floor by my hair."

She said Boateng, who is 1.90 metres (6ft 2in) tall, repeatedly insulted her and hit her on the back with "one strong punch and several light punches. That's when I lost my breath for a moment."

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Boateng and his ex-girlfriend are also locked in an ongoing legal dispute over custody of their twin daughters, who currently live with the footballer.

He is the latest footballer to appear in a high-profile court case.

Manchester City defender Benjamin Mendy is currently held in custody in the UK ahead of a potential trial on rape and sexual assault charges.

- Turbulent year -

The verdict in Munich is the latest tumultuous chapter in a turbulent year for Boateng.

His ex-girlfriend, influencer and model Kasia Lenhardt, was found dead having committed suicide in a Berlin flat in February while he was away playing for Bayern at the Club World Cup in Qatar.

He was immediately given permission to fly home after news of her death.

The 25-year-old died six days after Boateng finished their relationship. He then gave details of the break-up during a frank interview with top German daily Bild.

After making 363 appearances over 10 years at Bayern Munich, winning nine Bundesliga and two Champions League titles, Boateng's contract was not extended when it expired in June. He has since joined Lyon.

He was a key part of the Germany squad which won a fourth World Cup crown in Brazil, but has not played for his country since being dropped by former national team coach Joachim Loew in March 2019.

Boateng still hopes to add to his 76 caps under Loew's successor Hansi Flick, his former coach at Bayern Munich, who led the Bavarian giants to a treble of titles in 2019/20.

SID-ryj/mw
Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks Wednesday at a rally in San Leandro against the upcoming recall election. (Kent Nishimura / Los Angeles Times)

Many of the voters of color who support recalling Gov. Gavin Newsom have one thing in common: They subscribe to the idea that hard work and self-discipline are really all it takes to win in this society.

Call it the pull-yourself-up-by-the-bootstraps ideology. Its the magnetic, freedom-loving myth of the self-made man, with roots in Western cowboy masculinity  the twin of the Latino caballeros machismo. In this pandemic, it has morphed into despising Newsoms COVID-19 regulations as well as opposing state aid for people whove been thrown out of work.

Actor John Wayne, an icon of cowboy machismo, during the filming of "The Horse Soldiers." (Associated Press)

Juan Rivera is a 21-year-old pro-Trump Latino resident from San Marcos who supports the recall. He says he voted for the YouTube personality Kevin Paffrath but isnt bothered by the fact that a Republican is likely to become governor if the recall succeeds. People dont want to work, because the government keeps giving them money, Rivera told me. Its ridiculous.

The belief in el sueno Americano, which sees this country as a land of opportunity, predisposes some Latinos to dismiss the poor or unemployed as lazy  lacking ganas. This view obscures how history and government determine outcomes, including access to basic resources such as clean water, healthcare and roads. Blind faith in individualism, which promotes antipathy for institutions, can lead some Latinos to sit out elections or vote against their interests.

A recent Pew Research Center study found that Latinos are more likely than the general U.S. public to believe in core parts of the American dream  that hard work will pay off and that each successive generation is better off than the one before it. Latinos are also more optimistic about their future than average Americans, with 75% expecting their standard of living to be better than that of their parents, compared with only 56% of those in the general U.S. public.

Notably, the study also found that optimism declines from one generation to the next as immigrants kids and grandkids find themselves living a different reality.

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Hard work is necessary, but its not a sufficient condition for being able to experience success, Isidro Ortiz, a political scientist and professor of Chicano activism at San Diego State, told me. You need opportunity as well, so that hard work can actually translate into economic success. And thats where the government comes into play.

The recall elections Republican front-runner, Larry Elder  who blames the problems of Black people on Black people and denies the reality of systemic racism  has won support because he offers up this simple mantra: Hard work wins.

Elders appeal to a minority of Black and brown Californians with this message doesnt surprise Jasmine Hill, an assistant professor of public policy and sociology at UCLA. Its a very alluring narrative, because it says that if I just keep working hard, this will work out for me, she told me. Fundamentally, it assumes that poverty and deprivation are personal choices.

Hills research, like that of other sociologists, finds that this politicized view defies the reality that people of color work hard. Black and Latino Americans are more likely to have essential jobs  including in warehouses, trucking and construction  requiring grueling work outside the home, often without access to paid sick leave. Nevertheless, they continue to make lower wages than white workers.

Worse, this fallacious concept that the downtrodden have earned their lot inspires bad policies that aggravate social problems and reinforce racist stereotypes. Its extremely bad for the social fabric, particularly our relationship to people of color, Hill said.

Democrats, as much as Republicans, have fashioned policies that reinforced these falsehoods. Bill Clintons 1996 welfare reform choked off help for poor families, accepting as true the Reagan-era racist attacks on the immorality of Black mothers and their families. And while most Black and brown people believe that forces such as institutional racism and historic discrimination contribute to inequality, that understanding has declined over time.

Its not surprising that many people of color who support the recall effort favor what Republicans like Elder call school choice  specifically, giving taxpayer- financed vouchers to parents rather than investing in public schools.

We want choice for our kids because we want our children to be brought up correctly, Eddy Marmolejo, state chairman of the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, told me. The parent has to decide whats best for the child. Support for this policy also stems from the myopic belief in the supremacy of the individual, even at the expense of the societys most vulnerable children.

Of course, Republicans whose worldview would preserve existing inequalities recognize that they can no longer win elections without some support from people of color, particularly as demographics change.

So, theyre ramping up rhetoric about the self-made man, which they hope makes a connection with hardworking immigrants. Innovation and hard work should be celebrated, Republican candidate Kevin Faulconer recently tweeted. Instead, Californians and their businesses have suffered under never ending regulations.

In an essay titled The Ideology of Isolation, the writer Rebecca Solnit points out the dangers of the myth of complete self-reliance: Taken to its conclusion, this worldview dictates that even facts are freestanding items that the self-made man can manufacture for use as he sees fit.

Perhaps the best way to break the spell of this destructive narrative is to tell real stories of how lives improve. Ortiz explains that for Black and brown communities, progress is always born of community struggle. All the civil rights advances that have occurred, those all came out of collective action emphasizing cooperation, he said. Falling for the story of rugged individualism robs us of our power. Thats what its meant to do.

@jeanguerre

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
In the fifth fatal Charlotte shooting since Saturday, a victim found with a gunshot wound near a Walmart on Wilkinson Boulevard died at a hospital Wednesday, and a second victim had life-threatening injuries, police said.

On Thursday, police identified the victim as 18-year-old Johnny Edward Scott.

Officers found Scott in the 3200 block of Wilkinson Boulevard. He died at Carolinas Medical Center, police said.

Officers responded to a 911 call about the shooting just before 3 p.m. according to a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department news release.

The victims were shot about a mile-and-a-half away in the 1700 block of West Boulevard, police said.

Police havent released the other victims name and age. Officers arent saying if they have a suspect or know what led to the shootings.

CMPD urges anyone with information to call the homicide unit at 704-432-8477 or Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600.

At midnight Tuesday, a 3-year-old boy was killed and his 4-year-old sister injured during an attack in which shooters unleashed a barrage of 150 bullets into a familys home in northwest Charlotte.

Asiah Figueroa was asleep when he was fatally shot, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department said. Eleven people were in the home at the time.

Recent shootings

According to police, the childs death, the fatal shooting Sunday of a teenager and several recent gunshot attacks on Charlotte homes are all believed to be related to disputes among students at Hopewell, North Mecklenburg and Chambers high schools.

Parents of kids at these high schools, what we need from you is we need you to be as outraged as we are about this, police Capt. Joel McNelly said at a news conference Wednesday afternoon. This is where your kids go to school, these are the people that your kids are around, and we need your help.

In a separate homicide, 29-year-old Gabryelle Allnutt, who evacuated to Charlotte to get away from Hurricane Ida, was killed early Monday, police said

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Police are searching for Malek Moore, a 29-year-old suspect in Allnutts death.

Investigators havent said how Allnutt died.

In a triple shooting Sunday, 16-year-old Jaylen Xavier Foster was killed in the 9700 block of Trinity Road, in the Beatties Ford-Trinity area of north Charlotte. A 14-year-old was charged with murder.

And Jeffrey Bernard Lineberger II, 43, was fatally shot early Sunday in the 4900 block of Springview Road., CMPD said.

CMPD has investigated 67 homicides since Jan. 1, Officer Thomas Hildebrand said Wednesday.

As of Sept. 6 last year, police investigated 81 homicides, according to Observer archives.

Staff Writer Rogelio Aranda contributed.

This is a developing story.
Doctors say it's important to prioritize your health needs as you head back to school or back to college. (Photo: Getty)

Heading off to school is an exciting  and stressful  time. While youre probably focused on making sure you have all of your school supplies or dorm essentials, doctors say its important to remember your health needs, too.

That means making sure youre up to date on vaccinations, alerting your school about any medical conditions and being at least aware of the mental health resources that are available to you. (It's also important to note that there are daily COVID-19 protocols that one should be taking in addition to these basic health steps, which can vary depending on the school and location.) It can be overwhelming to think about, but it doesnt have to be.

Doctors recommend running through this checklist before you go back to school or back to college, so you can be as prepared as possible for a healthy school year.

Make sure you're up to date on vaccines and boosters

Every school has its own requirements for these and your institution should be able to provide a checklist for you of what you need to be up to date on before you can start school, Dr. Danelle Fisher, chair of pediatrics at Providence Saint Johns Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif., tells Yahoo Life. Another good resource for this is your doctor or pediatrician, who can tell you if youve had the meningococcal conjugate vaccine, which helps prevent meningitis, or the HPV vaccine, which helps protect against the development of certain forms of cancer. Many colleges also require that you be vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella, and COVID-19.

These are still diseases that spread and they can be dangerous, Fisher says. You want to be protected from all the things that can be prevented.

School environments are particularly risky for the spread of illnesses, Dr. Cathy Wiley, pediatrician and division head of primary care at Connecticut Childrens, tells Yahoo Life. Any time people enter group settings, there is more exposure to serious and preventable contagious diseases, Wiley says. Vaccines teach your immune system to be ready to fight off these infections before you are exposed to them.

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Even if your school doesnt require it, its important to get the COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Alfred F. Tallia, professor and chair of Family Medicine and Community Health at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, tells Yahoo Life. Immunization has proven particularly effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalizations, he says.

Have your prescription medications with you at school

If youre going off to college, Fisher recommends getting refills of your prescription medications before you leave. You dont want to be without them, and you want to have them on-hand, she says. Fisher recommends connecting with your student health center about your prescriptions or finding a local physician who can help you continue to fill your medications. Its important to have a doctor close by so you can continue to get good healthcare, she says.

If youre still in high school, its important to let your student health services or nurse know about your medication needs so that they may be stored appropriately at school or be available in case of urgent needs, Tallia says.

Tell the school about any severe allergies you have

If you have a severe allergic reaction at school, you may not be able to tell someone about your medical needs during an emergency situation, Fisher points out. Its important to have your information on file and your medication available so that you can be properly taken care of, she says.

If you have an allergy to something such as peanuts, your school can also take steps to help lower your risk of exposure, Wiley says. One potential option: making sure youre in peanut-free classrooms. And, she says, youll want to have a detailed plan of what to do in case of emergency. Some students allergies are so severe that medication needs to be administered immediately after exposure, while other students only need treatment if symptoms develop, Wiley explains. Also, allergic reactions can sometimes be mistaken for other illnesses. If the school is aware of the students history in advance, they will recognize and treat a reaction more promptly.

Bring any medications with you to school and connect with the school nurse. For college students, reach out to the student health center to help you continue to fill your medications. (Photo: Getty)

Get a health insurance card

If youre headed off to college, youll want to have a copy of your health insurance card with you, whether you have an individual or family plan. Its also a good idea to make sure your student health center has that information. You want to make sure you have an insurance card on file if you need it, and you probably will at some point, Fisher says. Even then, youll want to have a card on you in case you happen to have an emergency that requires care outside your school, Wiley notes.

Know what mental health resources are available

College can be a stressful time, and Wiley says its important to know in advance where to seek help if you need it. These resources can include campus counseling centers, peer support groups, crisis hotlines and community mental health services, she says. If youre already in therapy, Fisher suggests contacting your student health center in advance about their recommendations for mental health providers near campus. You dont have to feel like your therapy needs to stop because youre going to college, she says.

Have a well-stocked first aid kit in your dorm room

Living away from home means you wont have ready access to your parents medicine cabinet if you happen to get a minor illness. Its so important to have your own first aid kit, Fisher says. You never know when youll get a cut or scrape. You could also get a headache and not be able to run out to get medicine in the middle of the night.

Tallia suggests having things like acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin around (unless youre allergic to any of those), over-the-counter antihistamines, anti-diarrheal medication, adhesive bandages, peroxide (for cleaning minor skin wounds), face masks, gloves and an oral thermometer. These, he says, are all handy things to have on hand for those living independently for the first time.

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(Bloomberg) -- Visma AS has secured investment from backers including Norways government pension fund and billionaire John Fredriksens Aeternum Capital, valuing the software group at 16 billion euros ($18.9 billion).

Singaporean wealth fund GIC Pte Ltd. and Norwegian technology investor Vind are also buying stakes in the Oslo-based company, according to a statement that confirmed an earlier Bloomberg News report.

European buyout firm Hg will remain Vismas biggest shareholder and will not be reducing its holding. ABG Sundal Collier and Goldman Sachs Group Inc. acted as placement agents on the transaction.

The expansion of Vismas investor base comes as private equity firms continue to pour vast sums of money into the technology sector. Theyve invested $54 billion in European technology and communications companies so far this year, 158% more than at this point in 2020, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

Visma is one of the regions biggest private software firms, having secured funding from Warburg Pincus and TPG last year in a deal that valued it at more than $12 billion. Its business has remained steady during the coronavirus pandemic, with revenue rising 24.5% year-on-year in the second quarter to 520 million euros, according to its website.

The group offers cloud software that small businesses can use for enterprise resource planning and accounting, as well as other online products for electronic invoicing, procurement and debt collection.

The future looks bright for the growth of digital services, as businesses increasingly see the value of cloud solutions to handle their most important business processes, Vismas Chief Executive Officer Merete Hverven said in the statement.

Hg, one of the biggest backers of private software businesses in Europe, led the original delisting of Visma in 2006 and has since reinvested in the business several times. Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and General Atlantic are also among investors to have previously bought stakes in the business.

Story continues

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Sep. 9Honolulu police are looking for a suspect in connection with an alleged armed robbery that occurred near the University of Hawaii area Tuesday.

Police said a masked male brandished a handgun at a 55-year-old woman in the 2600 block of Varsity Place and demanded jewelry and cash at about 1 :40 p.m.

The suspect, described to be approximately 5 feet, 2 inches and 180 pounds, allegedly fled the scene with cash taken from the victim.

No injuries were reported.

Police have not made any arrests at this time.
BUDAPEST (Reuters) -Hungary labelled European Union authorities as arrogant after they moved to impose financial penalties against Poland in a dispute over judicial reforms.

The European Commission said on Tuesday it had asked the EU's top court to fine Poland over the activities of a judges' disciplinary chamber, stepping up a long-running dispute over the rule of law.

Hungary's Justice Minister Judit Varga said the action was unacceptable. "The (Hungarian) government has decided ... to pass a resolution expressing its support for Poland, and condemn the malicious attacks by Brussels," she said on her Facebook page late on Wednesday.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who met Polish President Andrzej Duda in Budapest on Thursday, assured Duda of Hungary's "solidarity and full support" in the context of Brussels' "attack" on Poland, the PM's press chief told news agency MTI.

Orban said that Brussels is "abusing its power" and called the fine "outrageous and completely unacceptable". He said that the procedure against Poland is a threat to EU unity and Hungary will weigh the possibility of acting on the side of Poland in European court proceedings.

Warsaw said three weeks ago that the chamber would be dismantled as part of wider judiciary reforms in coming months.

But the executive Commission said it was taking action now as the chamber was already being used to pressure judges or exert political control over judicial decisions, thereby undercutting EU law.

Varga said ignoring the Polish promise was a "scandalous and arrogant" step by a Commission that was "meddling in the judiciary and law-making process of a sovereign member state in an unprecedented manner".

Hungary and Poland have been allies for years, both locked in a series of conflicts with Brussels over core issues including the rule of law and press freedoms and LGBT rights. They say they are protecting their traditional societies from Western liberalism.

(Reporting by Krisztina ThanEditing by Raissa Kasolowsky, John Stonestreet, William Maclean)
TOKYO (Reuters) - A plan to release radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean will be examined in December by international experts sent by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Japan's industry ministry said on Thursday.

In a move that angered local fishermen as well as China and South Korea, Japan said in April that it would release into the sea more than 1 million tonnes of contaminated water from the Fukushima plant, which was wrecked by an earthquake and tsunami a decade ago.

To gain trust and ensure transparency from the fishermen and neighbouring countries, Japan has sought IAEA officials to conduct a review to assess and advise on the handling of the water from the perspective of a nuclear expert organisation.

The latest plan was set by the Japanese government and Lydie Evrard, deputy director general of the IAEA, who visited Japan this week to kick off discussions about their collaboration over the safety review of the planned water release.

International experts will assess the condition of the water to be released, the safety of the disposal procedure and the effects of radiation in accordance with IAEA safety standards, the ministry said.

"The main objective of our review is to be objective ... and transparent with a scientific-based approach," Evrard told reporters.

International experts will be selected by IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi and will likely include experts from neighbouring nations such as China and South Korea, she said.

Japan sought the IAEA's cooperation to ensure transparency of the water release for local fishermen and the international community, especially neighbouring countries which are opposed to oceanic discharge.

"The agency will listen to different concerns from various stakeholders," Evrard said.

Last month, plant operator Tokyo Electric Power outlined plans to discharge the water, after treatment and dilution, from a point about 1 km (0.6 miles) offshore from the Fukushima station. The release could begin as early as spring in 2023.

The IAEA will issue a report on the review before spring 2023 and continue safety reviews after the water release, Evrard said.

(Reporting by Yuka Obayashi; editing by David Evans)
Anti-abortion protesters outside the US Supreme Court (AP)

A ban on telemedicine consultations between doctors and women seeking abortions in Indiana is back in force after a federal appeals court set aside a judges ruling that they were unconstitutional.

The Associated Press reported Indiana would also require in-person examinations by a doctor before medication-induced abortions can be performed and a prohibition on second-trimester abortions outside of hospitals or surgery centers.

The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals panel issued a 2-1 ruling on Wednesday that allows Indiana to continue enforcing those laws while the court considers a full appeal of the case.

It said US District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barkers ruling last month was inconsistent with previous Supreme Court decisions.

Plaintiffs contend, and the district court found, that developments in videoconferencing make it possible to dispense with in-person meetings, that improvements in medicine make the use of hospitals or surgical centers unnecessary, and that nurses are competent to approve and monitor medication-induced abortions, the 7th Circuit panel said.

The district court concluded that these findings permit it to depart from the holdings of earlier cases. Yet the Supreme Court insists that it alone has the authority to modify its precedents.

The decision came amid a tumultuous legal battle in Texas over its new abortion laws, which are the most restrictive in the country.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed legislation last month that would ban women from seeking an abortion after six weeks, including the victims of incest and rape.

The Justice Department is expected to announce it is suing the state in the coming days and has vowed to protect women .

In her decision released last month, Ms Evans Barker said the state had only offered feeble explanations for the policies , which offered no clear health benefit to women.

US District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker found the states had only offered feeble arguments for its new abortion laws (Indiana.gov)

The States attempt to explain its basis for excluding the far-reaching benefits of telemedicine from this category of patients is feeble at best, especially given the widespread use of telemedicine throughout Indiana as well as the overall safety of medication abortions, Ms Barker wrote in her ruling .

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Indiana state has attempted to enact numerous abortion restrictions in recent years, including a law blocked by a federal judge earlier this year requiring doctors to tell women about a disputed abortion reversal treatment.

According to a 2018 analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation, Indiana had one of the lowest abortion rates in the country, ranked 35th out of 50 states with 6.2 abortions per thousand people, among those aged 15 to 44.

The Indiana attorney generals office argued in its appeal of Ms Barkers decision that the Constitution does not require state legislatures constantly to update state statutes to keep up with ever-advancing technologies just because those technologies may make abortion more convenient.

Appeals court Judge Diane Wood wrote in her dissent that the benefits of Indianas law are illusory, while its burdens are very tangible.

The Indiana abortion restrictions were challenged in a broad lawsuit filed by Virginia-based Whole Womans Health Alliance and other abortion rights supporters in 2018 as Whole Womans Health fought the states denial of a licence to open an abortion clinic in South Bend.

Rupali Sharma, a lawyer for Whole Womans Health, said the courts decision was being reviewed and all legal options were under consideration.

The states Republican attorney general, Todd Rokita, hailed the appeals court decision.

We would expect our commonsense laws to be upheld as the appeal continues, Mr Rokita said in a statement.

Protecting the culture of life is the top priority of my office, and we will continue fighting for every life alongside our legislative partners.

Associated Press contributed to this report

Read More

Texas GOP bets on hard right turn amid changing demographics

Federal judge strikes down Indianas feeble attempts to restrict abortion

Caitlyn Jenner says she backs Texass new ban on abortions beyond six weeks: Thats their decision
By Kate Lamb and Stanley Widianto

JAKARTA (Reuters) -Indonesia and Australia agreed to deepen security ties during a ministerial meeting on Thursday, with discussions underway towards enabling joint military training in Australia and participation in its defence academies.

Agreements were signed over counter-terrorism, defence and cybersecurity, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said, plus another agreement on support for Pacific island nations.

The trip to Jakarta, by Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton, was the first Australian ministerial visit to Indonesia since the start of the pandemic.

Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto said discussions included the possibility of joint military training in Australia and Indonesian cadets attending Australian academies, which he described as historic firsts.

Military exchanges between the two neighbours have previously included counter-terrorism and border protection.

But those ties have been strained at times, including over alleged abuses by Indonesian Kopassus special forces in East Timor in 1999, Australian spies in 2013 tapping then President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono's phone, and Indonesian concerns https://reut.rs/2YFyWhD in 2017 about teaching and remarks made at an Australian army language training facility.

Other areas discussed on Thursday included political developments in Afghanistan and Myanmar, the ministers said, with both countries expressing support for the mission of a Southeast Asian regional envoy, plus peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.

"Indonesia and Australia must become the anchors of cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region," said Dutton, describing the region as "increasingly contested".

The meeting came amid new concerns over the South China Sea, including a law announced by China requiring notification from foreign vessels before entering vast stretches of ocean that it claims as its own.

Story continues

"We welcome a region that supports a level playing field based on rules and norms to ensure healthy competition rather than competition that risks sliding into instability or conflict," said Payne.

"Australia and Indonesia are well placed to cooperate on this vision."

Australia's foreign and defence ministers will meet counterparts elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific, with stops in India, South Korea and the United States.

(Reporting by Kate Lamb in Sydney and Stanley Widianto in Jakarta; Editing by Martin Petty and Michael Perry)
MILAN (Reuters) - Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi discussed on Wednesday the Afghan crisis with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan ahead of a G20 summit to be held in Rome on Oct. 30-31, Draghi's office said.

The "comprehensive" phone conversation explored possible steps to be taken by the international community, including the G20, over Afghanistan and Draghi renewed an invitation to Erdogan to take part in the Rome Summit, it said.

The situation in Libya and a further strengthening of Italian-Turkish partnerships across sectors were also discussed.

(Reporting by Angelo Amante, writing by Valentina Za; editing by Chris Reese)
Joan Collins and Princess Diana. David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images, Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

Joan Collins recalled the last time she met Princess Diana.

Writing in People, she said the princess complained about her meal with a Spanish king.

Diana called it "one of the most boring lunches I've ever had," Collins said.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Joan Collins said the last time she met Princess Diana, the royal complained about "the most boring lunch" with a Spanish king.

Writing about her memories of the princess in People magazine, the "Dynasty" star said she met Diana about six times before she died in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997.

"The last time I saw her, we were both having lunch at Harry's Bar in London," Collins wrote. "I think she was dining with King Juan Carlos of Spain and somebody else. When she left, she passed by and winked and said, 'One of the most boring lunches I've ever had.'"

Diana was known to have a good relationship with the Spanish royal family and even took Prince Harry and Prince William on vacation with them at the Marivent Palace in Majorca in August 1987. After the visit, Diana told her bodyguard Ken Wharfe that she thought the king "fancied her," the Barcelona author Pilar Eyre wrote in a book about the Spanish royals, according to the Daily Mail.

Collins also opened up about her reaction to Diana's death, writing in People that she "cried for days" after hearing the news.

"She was very natural and unaffected and real. I think that that has rubbed off on her sons, particularly Prince William, and also I think that Princess Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, is following in her footsteps," Collins wrote. "I can't think of anybody who has been as popular. Of course, the Queen is exceedingly popular. But Diana, she was a phenomenon."

Read the original article on Insider
(Getty Images)

Job listings requiring vaccination against Covid-19 have dramatically increased, according to a career website.

The rise is believed to be connected to the Food and Drug Administration granting full approval to the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine on 23 August. Following its approval, vaccine mandates from employers and businesses were expected to become more common.

The White House has thrown its support behind the idea of employers requiring their staffs to be fully vaccinated against Covid.

Im calling on more companies in the private sector to step up with vaccine requirements that will reach millions more people, President Joe Biden said last month.

On 9 September, President Joe Biden is expected to announce plans to implement a vaccine mandate for all federal workers.

Last month, Mr Biden said, Im calling on more companies in the private sector to step up with vaccine requirements that will reach millions more people.

It appears the private sector heeded Mr Bidens call. In the week ending on 30 August, the share of postings per million specifically requiring vaccination against Covid-19 rose 119 per cent, according to Indeed Hiring Labs.

Along with this, there was an uptick in job ads that requested candidates be vaccinated, but did not explicitly state against Covid. According to the website, the share of these postings per million was up 242 per cent over the same period.

In addition, some job ads promoted potential staff having the Covid vaccine, but did not make it mandatory, as the website read: In the seven days ending August 30, the share of job postings per million recommending vaccines jumped over 40 per cent.

Arizona was the state with the most jobs requiring vaccination, with a total of 1.3 per cent. The top vaccine requiring sectors were personal care, childcare and community and social work. However, media, law and research roles were also high ranking.

According to the site, some jobseekers actively looked for jobs with no vaccine requirement. Indeed Hiring Labs reported that 58 per cent of those were in the nursing sector.

AnnElizabeth Konkel, an labour market focused economist at Indeeds Hiring lab, said, As the Delta variant wreaks havoc, vaccination rates are increasing. But, with winter ahead, some employers are taking matters into their own hands by mandating vaccination. Job postings requiring vaccination are spread across a variety of sectors and geographic locations. Time will tell how much further this trend goes.

The Delta variant is currently the dominant strain of covid in the US, and is more contagious than previous iterations of the virus. However, vaccinations against Covid-19 sharply reduce the likelihood of hospitalisation and death.
(Reuters) - JPMorgan Chase & Co on Thursday appointed Allison Beer as the chief executive officer of cards at Chase, making her the third woman in a row to lead the cards business at the retail bank.

Beer took over the reins from Marianne Lake, who is currently co-head of the consumer and community banking division with Jennifer Piepszak, also a former CEO of the cards business at Chase.

Beer joined the bank in 2017 to lead partnerships with payments companies in the bank's digital division. Her team managed partnerships with Apple Pay, Samsung Pay and Android Pay, among others.

She was formerly with American Express Co, where she held key roles across mergers and acquisitions, card benefits and digital partnerships.

The bank named Rohan Amin as the chief product officer of Chase, a role that was held by Beer before her appointment as CEO of cards. Amin joined JPMorgan Chase from Lockheed Martin in 2014, where he ran the global cybersecurity solutions division.

JPMorgan also appointed Gill Haus to the role of chief information officer at Chase. Haus, who joined the bank right before the pandemic took hold in the U.S. in February 2020 from Capital One, was hired to lead digital technology for the consumer bank.

Chase is JPMorgan's retail bank which is housed within its consumer & community banking division.

(Reporting by Sohini Podder in Bengaluru and Elizabeth Dilts Marshall in New York; Editing by Shailesh Kuber)
Judy Sheindlin announced Thursday that she will come back to television alongside her granddaughter on Nov. 1.

The program will be called Judy Justice and will be available on Amazon's IMDb TV streaming service. Sarah Rose, a law clerk and Sheindlin's granddaughter, will be a legal analyst.

She's smart, sassy, and opinionated, Sheindlin said. Who knows where she gets those traits?

SMALL SHOWING FOR BLOOMBERG RALLY WITH JUDGE JUDY DESPITE CAMPAIGN'S BIG SPENDING

Judge Judy was the most popular show produced by CBS Media ventures for over a decade, and Sheindlin's deal with CBS concluded after a 25-year-long run. CBS will continue to keep Judge Judy reruns on the air.

CBS bought the rights to the show's old episodes from Sheindlin, allowing CBS to continue selling the rights to air the episodes without continuing to pay Sheindlin to star in new ones.

We had a nice marriage, Sheindlin told the Wall Street Journal. It's going to be a Bill and Melinda Gates divorce.

Two longtime producers on Judge Judy, Randy Douthit and Amy Freisleben, will be joining Sheindlin on the show.

Judy Justice is expected to drive hordes of viewers to the streaming service, cashing in on the original show's clout.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

For them, it can't be anything but good, said Bill Carroll, a syndication analyst. For her, it allows her to do what she loves to do.

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Tags: News, Judges, CBS, TV

Original Author: Matthew Miller

Original Location: Judge Judy will return to television with granddaughter
The Department of Justice has agreed to review the practices of the Columbus, Ohio, police department, the city's mayor announced.

Mayor Andrew J. Ginther and City Attorney Zach Klein in April requested a review of the Columbus Division of Police. The request was made in the wake of several shootings by police officers in the city, including the deaths of Andre Hill in December and MaKhia Bryant in April.

"This is the first time in our city's history that the DOJ has been invited to review CPD, and for the first time that they've come in under the community-oriented policing services arm," Ginther said at a news conference Thursday.

The city's police officers have been involved in a number of high-profile shootings. In December, Hill was fatally shot by now-former Officer Adam Coy as Hill walked out of the garage of a home. Coy and a second officer did not turn their body cameras on until immediately after the shooting, although an automatic "look back" function captured the shooting without audio.

Coy was indicted on several charges and has pleaded not guilty.

Related video: DOJ gives local police more control over bodycam footage

Just months later, Bryant, 16, was fatally shot by Columbus police Officer Nick Reardon as he responded to a report of a disturbance. Police have said video of the shooting shows Bryant trying to stab a person on the ground, as well as a second person, before Reardon fired his weapon. The case is being reviewed by the local prosecutor.

The mayor said the DOJ's involvement is "not about one particular officer, policy or incident."

"Rather, this is about reforming the entire institution of policing in Columbus," he said. "We look forward to the DOJ's involvement in that continued process."

Elaine Bryant, the chief of police, praised the news saying that it would provide the department an opportunity "to grow, build and improve."

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This decision by the Department of Justice means we would have a partner with deep resources and expertise to help us achieve this. This opens the door for collaboration with experts from across the country," she said.

"We can benefit from their experience and knowledge to help us improve our policies and the way that we serve this city. They will help us become even stronger, a more efficient organization.

The chief said research and findings show the department needs to improve on several areas, including use of force, training, diversity, bias-based policing and de-escalation. The Justice Department's review, however, will not be limited to just those areas, she said.

At a news conference in June when Bryant was named police chief, she said one of the main reasons she took the job was to help "service the community and this division," but that goal cannot be reached without some help.

This is not something we can do alone," she said. "We have to be open to the possibility that we dont have all the answers."
It was just after midnight on Aug. 28 when Debbie Strickland called 911 to report her own kidnapping.

Strickland lay on a hospital cot in the middle of a cavernous Tangipahoa Parish warehouse, wearing nothing but a hospital gown and diaper. Nothing protected her from the bare cot mattress, though a thin sheet was draped over her. Strickland had asked for help to the bathroom for hours, to no avail.

She wasn't sure what else to do other than dial 911 from her cot.

"They lied and said we were going to a real nursing home," Strickland said Thursday. "We ended up in a warehouse instead."

The 66-year-old was one of hundreds of nursing home residents evacuated ahead of Hurricane Ida to an Independence, Louisiana, warehouse now at the center of a statewide investigation. A log of 911 calls obtained by the USA TODAY Network reveals chaotic conditions reported even before Ida hit, with at least 30 calls made to local officials from the facility about building conditions, food supply and myriad medical complaints.

After Hurricane Ida: Louisiana revokes nursing homes' licenses after 7 die in 'inhumane' warehouse conditions

"I told them I had been kidnapped to the warehouse, and they refused to let me off the cot," Strickland said of her late-night 911 call.

"They refused to help me," Strickland said of staff inside the warehouse. She estimated there were three to four staff members per nursing home on hand to help hundreds of patients. "They were barely feeding me. They put a diaper on me and they just changed me whenever, they didnt care how I used the bathroom. They would just come to the cot when they were in the mood to change me."

Paramedics evacuate people at a mass shelter on Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021, in Independence, La.

Strickland said the 911 operator promised to send someone out to the location at 129 Calhoun Street, but she isn't sure if someone came.

As Ida bore down on the Louisiana coast and headed north, 911 calls continued to roll in from Calhoun Street. On Aug. 29, a man who identified himself as a stroke patient said he was being treated "poorly," as he lay on a mattress on the concrete floor. On Aug. 30, multiple "breathing stopped" calls were made, and a dialysis patient called to report he was in a lot of pain because he'd missed treatments.

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On Aug. 31, someone called asking for help for a brittle diabetic patient who had not eaten due to the facility "not having more supplies." Someone called shortly after 3 p.m. about a "possible death already reported several times," according to the 911 dispatch notes.

'Nothing you can do but wait': In New Orleans, frustrations rise over Hurricane Ida outages

Cots in Strickland's area were crowded so closely together her neighbor couldn't turn in his bed without accidentally hitting her. Patients were confused and scared, Strickland said. There were too few staff to care for the patient load, and the staff she encountered were dismissive.

"People said they werent being fed well, and they didnt know when they were going to get changed," Strickland said, which was causing a lot of pain and discomfort as people languished in their own waste. "They were being physically abused."

Strickland purchased a $900 wheelchair several years ago that she used to get around, and said she was told it would go with her to the evacuation site. But she hasn't seen it since she left the nursing home and was cot-bound for the entirety of her stay in the warehouse. Her best friend at the Maison De'Ville nursing home, who previously had a leg amputated, was refused help with her wheelchair, Strickland said.

"She had to get in and out of her wheelchair as best she could with one leg," said Strickland, whose friend was still in the warehouse on Wednesday when she was evacuated via ambulance.

"I dont know where she ended up."

'Completely unacceptable and disturbing'

Many family members of residents learned of their loved ones' location from media coverage last week, as news began to break of the squalid conditions and ongoing evacuations from the facility. It appears no entity has been able to conduct a widespread identification and notification system, with families attempting a patchwork game of telephone between hospitals, nursing home staff and other officials as they try to track down their family members.

Kacey Lirette first discovered her 90-year-old grandmother had been transferred from the South Lafourche Nursing Home to the Independence warehouse as the news broke about evacuation. Lirette said the family knew the home was being evacuated, but they trusted the nursing home plan presented to them when they first moved the matriarch in just two months ago.

Staff leaves a facilty where people were evacuated from a mass shelter in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021, in Independence, La. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)

After some panicked phone calls, a nurse was able to tell the family she had been taken to a hospital, but not the hospital's name. So Lirette, fighting spotty cell service due to Ida damage, began calling every local hospital she could find.

Finally, she found her grandmother.

"When I originally spoke to one of the nurses, she let me know she was sent for being dehydrated," Lirette said. "Once we were able to get to the hospital, we found out she had also fallen. The clothes that had been put on her to go to the hospital were not her clothes. Her shirt was bloody. Her pants were soiled. Her shoes, usually pristine white, were full of urine, fecal matter and dirt. She was not in very good condition."

She is still hospitalized, Lirette said, with a serious bladder infection due to either dehydration, sitting in waste, or both.

"Its completely unacceptable and disturbing that she and the other elderly people there had to go through that," Lirette said. "Its very, very upsetting and frustrating. At the end of the day, somebody needs to be held accountable for this. My grandma did not deserve to go through everything she went through at 90 years old."

Louisiana health department responds after Hurricane Ida

The Louisiana Department of Health this week revoked the nursing homes' licenses amid the ongoing investigation. The department said the homes, all owned by Baton Rouge businessman Bob Dean, had approval for their evacuation plans, but the plans were not executed as promised.

LDH attorney Stephen Russo said agency investigators have encountered resistance from nursing home administrators and were "intimidated" by Dean through a phone conversation. Russo said Dean ordered LDH personnel off the property when conducting wellness checks.

On their own: Inside the aftermath of Hurricane Ida on the small island of Grand Isle, Louisiana

All of these nursing facilities clearly failed to execute their emergency preparedness plans to provide essential care and services to their residents, LDH Secretary Dr. Courtney N. Phillips said in a statement. When issues arose post-storm, we now know the level of care for these residents plummeted; an individual representing himself as the nursing home owner failed to communicate the situation; and then upon hearing reports from others that conditions at the facility had deteriorated our LDH surveyor was expelled from the property and LDH employees were subject to intimidation. Ultimately, lives were lost  these were grandparents, neighbors and friends, and we know families are hurting. We as a Department are taking formal regulatory action.

When asked for a copy of the evacuation plan approved by LDH, a department spokesperson asked the USA TODAY Network to file a formal records request. The department has not yet responded to a question regarding the total number of warehouse residents who required hospitalization.

Strickland briefly broke down on Wednesday while talking about her new nursing home, Valley View Health Care, as the exhaustion and emotional drain of the past two weeks took its toll.

"Im feeling drained. Im happy, at the same time, that Valley View rescued me," she said. "I think it was Jesus who sent me someone to rescue me."

Contact Montgomery Advertiser reporter Melissa Brown at 334-240-0132 or mabrown@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Hurricane Ida: 911 call logs reveal chaos for nursing home evacuees
UNITED NATIONS -- The United Nations development agency says Afghanistan is teetering on the brink of universal poverty which could become a reality in the middle of next year unless urgent efforts are made to bolster local communities and their economies.

It said the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has put 20 years of steady economic gains at risk.

The U.N. Development Program outlined four scenarios for Afghanistan following the Talibans Aug. 15 assumption of power that predict the countrys GDP will decline between 3.6% and 13.2% in the next fiscal year starting in June 2022, depending on the intensity of the crisis and how much the world engages with the Taliban. That is in sharp contrast to the expected 4% growth in GDP before the fall of the government.

Afghanistan pretty much faces universal poverty by the middle of next year, Kanni Wignaraja, UNDPs Asia-Pacific Director, told a news conference Thursday launching its 28-page assessment. Thats where were heading -- its 97-98% (poverty rate) no matter how you work these projections.

Currently, the poverty rate is 72% and Wignaraja pointed to many development gains after the Taliban were ousted from power in 2001: Per capita income more than doubled in the last 20 years, life expectancy at birth was extended by about nine years, the number of years of schooling rose from six to 10, and we got women into university.

But she said Afghanistan now faces a humanitarian and development disaster resulting from political instability, frozen foreign reserves, a collapsed public finance system, a crush on local banking because of this, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

UNITED NATIONS -- The United States has a message for the Taliban: If it lives up to all its commitments, brings greater stability to Afghanistan and the region, demonstrates widespread inclusion, and protects the gains of the last 20 years well work with it.

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But U.S. deputy ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, who delivered the message at a U.N. Security Council meeting on Thursday, stressed that any legitimacy and support will have to be earned.

He said the standards the international community has set are clear and include facilitating safe passage for Afghans and foreign nationals who want to leave Afghanistan and respecting the countrys obligations under international humanitarian law including those related to the protection of civilians.

Were watching closely to see that those standards are met, he said.

DeLaurentis told the council that following the U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan needs the United Nations and the U.N. political mission in the country more than ever.

He said the United States remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and as the countrys largest humanitarian donor it is helping partners on the ground provide assistance, but the needs are vast.

With the diplomatic footprint in the country reduced, DeLaurentis said, the U.N. has a vitally important role to play not only in coordinating aid but in preventing human rights violations and abuses and pursuing accountability for those that have occurred, and in protecting children and civilians.

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BUCHAREST, Romania  Romanias foreign ministry says it has brought 139 Afghan citizens to its capital of Bucharest after initially evacuating them from Afghanistan to Pakistan.

Foreign affairs minister Bogdan Aurescu said Thursday that the evacuations were extremely complicated missions and that the arrival of the Afghans was a very emotional moment.

Romanian officials have said they have evacuated a total of 156 Afghans. Some had worked with Romanian troops in Afghanistan and the others are students with scholarships in Romania, journalists and human rights activists.

Romania has also repatriated 49 Romanian citizens and helped evacuate seven citizens of some allied states since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.

Officials say eight Romanian citizens remain in Afghanistan and so far have not asked to be repatriated.

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UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Afghanistan is urging the world to unite to prevent the economic collapse of the country, to address fears the Talibans Islamic state may spread to its neighbors and to fight terrorism.

Deborah Lyons warns that the Taliban have visibly welcomed and sheltered al-Qaida members and that Islamic State extremists remain active and could gain strength.

She told the U.N. Security Council on Thursday that it will have to decide what steps to take regarding many of the 33 members of the Taliban government who are on the U.N. sanctions blacklist, including the prime minister, the two deputy prime ministers and foreign minister.

Lyons says the humanitarian crisis is worsening and there is a looming crisis caused by donors freezing billions of dollars in Afghan assets. She says the fund freezes can cause a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger and may spark a refugee exodus and set the country back for generations.

She says ways must be found to provide humanitarian relief on a huge scale and quickly allow money to flow to Afghanistan to prevent a total breakdown of the economy and social order while creating safeguards to ensure the money is not misused by the Taliban authorities.

In Lyons words, The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender and counterterrorism perspective.

Lyons says that despite the Talibans statements of a general amnesty, the U.N. has received credible allegations of reprisal killings, the detention of officials who worked for previous administrations, house-to-house searches by Taliban who have seized property particularly in Kabul, and restrictions on women working and limitations to girls education in some regions.

Lyons says U.N. premises for the most part have been respected but its national staff has faced increasing harassment and intimidation.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistans foreign minister says the world community should not take steps that risk an economic collapse in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Quereshi on Thursday urged the international community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert a worsening humanitarian crisis.

His appeal came two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. At a news conference in Islamabad alongside Qatari counterpart Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qureshi did not name any single country. But Qureshi said no strings should be attached to humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.

The Taliban government currently does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve. These reserves were blocked amid last months political turmoil in Afghanistan.

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WASHINGTON  U.S. veterans groups hope that news that private evacuation flights are starting up again for Western citizens in Kabul means Afghans considered at risk for past work with Americans will soon be able to leave again as well.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers, veterans groups and other American organizations and individuals have been pressing the Biden administration to do more to get out those vulnerable Afghans. They include thousands of Afghans who used to work with the U.S. military, and are eligible for what are known as Special Immigrant Visas.

James Miervaldis, a spokesman with a veterans group, No One Left Behind working on behalf of those Afghans, called the news, Awesome. Well start getting SIVs booked up.

Miervaldis said he had yet to hear a commitment from officials to get Afghan allies on the flights out as well as citizens. But veterans had talked with Secretary of State Antony Blinken last Friday, and let him know that the organizations working to get Afghans out have committed $2 million for commercial air fare out of Afghanistan.

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MOSCOW  Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow is interested in peace and stability in Afghanistan and in stopping the exodus of Afghans from the country, which has been triggered by the Talibans swift power grab last month.

Putin spoke at a summit on Thursday via videoconference to officials from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. He told BRICS leaders that Russia, just like its BRICS partners, consistently supports the establishment of the long-awaited peace and stability on the Afghan land.

Putin said Russia is interested in stopping the flow of migration" and wants Afghans to live peaceful and dignified lives in their motherland.

Moscow, which fought a 10-year war in Afghanistan that ended with the Soviet troops withdrawal in 1989, has made a diplomatic comeback as a mediator over the past few years, reaching out to the feuding Afghan factions, including the Taliban  even though Russia has labeled them a terrorist organization.

Unlike many other countries, Russia hasnt announced a pledge to take in Afghan refugees in the wake of the Talibans takeover of power. Putin has previous said that Moscow doesnt want militants appearing (in Russia) again under the guise of refugees.

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MORE ON AFGHANISTAN:

 Taliban name caretaker Cabinet that pays homage to old guard

 US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression

 Blinken and Austin to visit Gulf to address postwar stresses

 Taliban say they took Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province

 Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan

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ISLAMABAD  CIA Director William Burns has met with Pakistans powerful army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

In a statement, the military said regional security and developments in Afghanistan were discussed during the meeting Thursday. It didn't elaborate.

Pakistan remains committed to cooperate with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Afghan people," the statement said.

Burns thanked Pakistan for its role in the evacuation operations from Afghanistan and pledged further improvements in diplomatic cooperation with Pakistan.

Burns also met with Pakistans intelligence chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hamid, the statement said.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistan says Qatars foreign minister will arrive in Pakistans capital of Islamabad to discuss the latest situation in Afghanistan.

In a statement, Pakistans Foreign Ministry said Qatari chief diplomat Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani during his day-long visit Thursday will meet with Pakistans foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other top officials.

It said Pakistan and Qatar enjoy close, cordial ties. The two countries closely collaborate on regional and global issues of common interest, the statement said.

The development comes two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. The Taliban maintain a political office in Doha.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  The interior ministry of the new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of demonstrations that have brought heavy-handed assaults on protesters.

The minister has issued an order to end all protests in the country  unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.

Its unlikely the women who have been leading near daily protest demanding their rights from the countrys hardline Islamic rulers will be allowed to protest under the new rules. In the words of the ministrys statement: It is announced to all citizens not to attempt at the present time to hold any demonstrations under any name whatsoever.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has taken to Twitter to say his flight from Kabul on Aug. 15 was done to save Afghanistans capital from bloodshed. He says his security personnel advised the secret departure, which opened the gates of the city to a Taliban takeover.

Ghani also denies widespread allegations of corruption as well as charges that he left the country with millions of dollars. He says there should be an independent investigation.

Ghanis sudden departure has been widely criticized both in Afghanistan and abroad. Washington blamed Ghanis flight and the governments collapse for a Taliban takeover ahead of a negotiated deal.

Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.
TUNIS (Reuters) - Libyan interim Prime Minister Abdulhamid Dbeibeh met President Kais Saied in Tunisia on Thursday after tensions in recent weeks over border closures during the coronavirus pandemic and security threats.

Dbeibeh's office said they had agreed that the Libyan and Tunisian health and interior ministries would prepare a joint protocol for reopening air and land borders as soon as possible.

Tunisia's presidency said in a statement that "bilateral relations should be protected to guarantee a better future".

The two countries have been in dispute this summer over the pandemic-induced closure of borders, a row that deepened after officials in each country said the other posed a security threat.

The dispute has developed since Saied's announcement on July 25 that he was seizing governing power and suspending parliament, moves that his internal critics have called a coup.

Tunisia has been open to Libya during most of the decade of instability since the 2011 NATO-backed uprising that ousted Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, and it hosts numerous diplomatic and aid missions focused on Libya.

(Reporting by Angus McDowall; editing by Grant McCool)
Associated Press

After a semester online, Wang Ziwei looked forward to meeting classmates who are returning to campus at Washington University in St. Louis. Wang is among at least 500 students the Chinese government says have been rejected under a policy issued by then-President Donald Trump to block Beijing from obtaining U.S. technology with possible military uses. Students argue it is applied too broadly and fume at what they say is an accusation they are spies.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  Several Malaysian mothers won a legal battle Thursday for the right to pass their nationality to their children born abroad, a landmark court decision hailed by activists as a giant step toward gender equality.

Malaysia is one of 25 countries that do not give mothers and fathers equal rights under the country's citizenship laws. Malaysia's constitution gives fathers the automatic right to confer citizenship to their children born abroad, but it doesnt mention mothers.

Six Malaysian women and the family support group Family Frontiers filed a legal suit in December 2020 against the decades-old law they called discriminatory. The government argued the court had no jurisdiction to hear the issue of citizenship.

Family Frontiers said in a statement that the Kuala Lumpur High Court ruled that Malaysian women have the same automatic rights as Malaysian men to pass their citizenship to their overseas-born children.

Malaysian mothers have faced family separation, along with obstacles to accessing residency, education, health care and social services for their children. Todays ruling is a monumental step in the direction of gender equality, Family Frontiers said.

The group said Judge Aktar Tahir ruled that the citizenship law must be read in harmony with another law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender. The judge said courts are empowered to interpret the law and that the case doesnt seek to change policy but to apply the law in a way that ensures justice, it said.

It cited the judge as saying the grievances of the plaintiffs are real and the discrimination is apparent.

It was not immediately known if the government will appeal the decision. Home Ministry officials couldnt immediately be reached for comment.

Family Frontiers has said some Malaysian women remained in abusive marriages so that they don't lose custody of their children, while others face separation from their children if their marriages end.

Its president, Suri Kempe, said the judgement was a huge relief for all Malaysian mothers whose children are affected and that it marked one step forward to a more egalitarian and just Malaysia."
Sep. 9For nearly three years, Ted Kitchens has worked to reverse more than a decade of passenger declines at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.

Now the airport director has a team of business leaders and a new nonprofit helping to achieve the goal. The New Hampshire Commerce Corridor, a coalition of seven chambers of commerce in the capital and southern regions of the state, announced Wednesday the formation of the Air Service Support and Enhancement Team or ASSET.

The organization formed after more than a year of work to support the airport in expanding air service and increasing the number of flights.

The group will serve as grant partner for the airport and has touted early success in helping it land a $450,000 federal grant to support the addition of Spirit Airlines, which announced in June it will launch regular nonstop flights to four Florida destinations. The flights start next month.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, passenger traffic had declined for 14 straight years, from a high of 4.3 million in 2005 to 1.7 million in 2019. Higher-than-average fares, lack of nonstop flights and fewer carriers and destinations are seen as some of the reasons.

"Returning the airport to the previous traffic level we enjoyed in the early 2000s is a core goal of mine and the entire team at the airport," Kitchens said. "It is important to understand that this is a long, complicated process."

Debt restructuring has allowed airlines to reduce costs by 25%.

"We want all of our airlines to grow and expand their footprint here out of Manchester," Kitchens said.

He called groups such as ASSET critical to the growth of an airport.

"Communities across the country are vying for the same air service," Kitchens said. "For far too long the airport has not had a partner by our side so we have been at a disadvantage when it comes to other communities at the air service development table."

Mike Skelton, president and CEO of the Greater Manchester Chamber, called the airport a major economic driver of the state's economy.

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"More flights and passengers out of Manchester means more jobs, business growth and economic output in New Hampshire," he said.

The organization, which will be run by a board of directors, will seek money from private sources, corporations and possible municipal and economic development funding sources. Some of its incentives will include marketing support, station startup costs and minimum revenue guarantees, according to Skelton.

Many similar nonprofits exist across the country. Kitchens began approaching the business groups about the partnership two years ago.

While Spirit will launch next month, Delta Airlines pulled service in May 2020. Delta has removed signs located around the airport, but MHT is still listed on its website.

Kitchen hopes the airline will return, but doesn't think it will be anytime soon.

"There is still a strong market here for them," Kitchens said. "We'll welcome them back with open arms, and in their eyes they are probably thinking a few years. They are working on their core 50 airports."

Kitchens said there are only about 10 carriers the airport can try to lure, including the four operating out of the airport: American, Spirit, Southwest and United.

"We are having conversations with every airline out there," he said.

One challenge is the number of passengers from New Hampshire choosing to fly out of Boston's Logan International Airport or other airports, known in the industry as "leakage," said Donna Morris, president and CEO of the Greater Salem Chamber.

Of 36,000 Salem residents who flew in 2019, 31,000 chose to fly out of Logan, or 86%, Morris said. ASSET will help make the airport more competitive and increase the number of options for those flying, she said.

"If the airport were to hold onto just 50% of the demand that is leaking to other airports, it is estimated that 640 jobs would be created, $20.8 million in labor income would be generated, $71.6 million would be recaptured in additional economic output that is currently going to other states," she said.

The airport would see an additional $91 million in revenues from concessions, retail, parking and car rentals.

"This would help further reduce airline operating costs and in turn attract more airline activity," Morris said.

The following chambers support the effort: Greater Manchester, Greater Nashua, Greater Concord, Greater Salem, Greater Derry-Londonderry, Greater Merrimack and Souhegan Valley and Greater Hudson.
As COVID-19 cases began to rise over the summer, Maryland manufacturers faced a wrenching choice.

They could require employees to be vaccinated  a mandate that some companies feared could cause defiant workers to quit. Or they could forgo a mandate and then theyve got a bigger problem if an outbreak developed, said Mike Galiazzo, president of the Regional Manufacturing Institute of Maryland, an advocacy group.

Facing such a dilemma, Galiazzo was among a number of business officials and union leaders who said Thursday that they backed  at least in principle  President Joe Bidens new requirement that businesses with 100 or more workers have their employees vaccinated or tested weekly.

Companies cannot afford to have folks get sick, Galiazzo said.

The new federal rule, which is being developed by the Department of Labors Occupational Safety and Health Administration, was among a number of stringent new measures announced by the president to try to curb the rise in COVID-19 cases fueled by the delta variant.

Biden also required vaccines for federal workers and contractors.

That mandate is particularly significant for Maryland, which ranks behind only California and Virginia in its number of federal employees, according to the Office of Personnel Management. About 145,000 federal jobs are based in Maryland, and many more state residents commute to U.S. government or federal contractor positions in Washington.

In July, the Biden administration said that federal employees and on-site contractors must disclose their vaccination status. Those who didnt were required to wear masks, be tested once or twice a week and potentially have their travel restricted.

Thursdays tougher standard was backed by the American Federation of Government Employees, the largest federal workers union, albeit with an important caveat.

Getting vaccinated isnt just the best way for us to end this pandemic, it is the best way for us to protect each other in the workplace, AFGE President Everett Kelley said in a prepared statement.

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But Kelley added: Put simply, workers deserve a voice in their working conditions. We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so.

Under the White House plan, OSHA also is developing a rule requiring businesses with 100 or more employees to provide paid time off for workers to get vaccinated.

That order, along with the private sector vaccine mandate, is in sync with businesses large and small [that] have been supportive of seeing their employees, except those with religious or medical exemptions, get vaccinated, said Donald C. Fry, president and CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee.

As vaccines are readily available, most businesses also will likely support a reasonable time off for employees to get vaccinated as most recognize it is to their overall benefit to have a healthy workforce, Fry said.

Under the new federal rule, any private sector workers who are unvaccinated must show a negative test result at least weekly before coming to work.

That is an important option for employees, said Andrew Griffin, vice president of government affairs for the Maryland Chamber of Commerce.

The chamber continues to encourage Marylanders to get vaccinated because vaccination is the key to getting our economy to pre-pandemic norms. However, we are happy to see that Bidens plan provides a testing option for those who choose not to, Griffin said. We are anxious to see additional guidance surrounding testing protocol and what cost implications, if any, there will be for employers.

The White House plan was to be reviewed by Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican, and his administration, spokesman Mike Ricci said.

But the governor and the health secretary have strongly encouraged businesses to implement vaccination protocols for their employees, Ricci said. It is the most important thing the business community can do right now to step up and help keep our health and economic recovery going.

The new federal vaccine requirements will join similar requirements from a number of Maryland employers. Many county and city governments, including Baltimore and Annapolis, require employees to be vaccinated or take weekly tests. And a Hogan requirement that hospital and nursing home workers prove they are vaccinated or submit to tests took effect at the beginning of September.

The White House strategy included a call for states to adopt vaccine requirements for all school employees. Most large Maryland school systems require employees to be vaccinated or regularly tested.

The Maryland State Department of Education said Thursday that it strongly recommends vaccines for everyone eligible, but that the question of vaccine mandates for teachers is currently determined by the local school system of employment.

The White House also said it was urging  but not ordering  stadiums, large concert halls and other entertainment venues where large groups of people gather to show proof of vaccination or testing to enter.

That recommendation will probably have minimal impact on Marylands performing arts groups, which already mostly require that patrons be masked and show proof of vaccination.

Venues from Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia to Baltimores Hippodrome Theatre have independently rolled out new masking and vaccination rules over the summer as they began reopening or making plans to reopen this fall.

The health and safety of everyone who enters our historic theatre is of the utmost importance and concern, wrote Ron Legler, president of the France-Merrick Performing Arts Center, home of the Hippodrome Theatre, in a Sept. 2 news release announcing the venues vaccination requirement. As we continue to monitor current state and national data, we want to do as much as possible to aid in reducing the risk and spread of COVID-19.

The exception is Baltimores museums, which do not require proof of vaccination  though they mandate face coverings as required by city law.

A Ravens spokesperson did not return messages late Thursday seeking comment on the White Houses suggestions regarding stadium entry requirements.

The Orioles, who have promoted vaccinations in their Take One For the Team, Get the Vaccine program, said they were just receiving the White House plan and that it would be premature to discuss specific recommendations.

However, the club praised the Biden administrations bold leadership in bringing an aggressive, organized, and massive fight to this existential public health catastrophe and said it would support any public health policy that helps end the pandemic.

Baltimore Sun reporters Mary McCauley and Liz Bowie contributed to this article.
DEMING, N.M.  New Mexico's acting Health Secretary came down hard Wednesday on unfounded claims that the drug Ivermectin is a suitable treatment for COVID-19 disease.

During a weekly update on the state's COVID-19 cases and response, state Human Services Secretary Dr. David Scrase, temporarily heading the state health department as well, said clinicians were investigating what was likely the state's first fatal case of an individual dosing themselves with the drug, while a suspected second case was in critical condition.

Id like people to know, if theyre out there taking it, it can kill them," Scrase said.

He stressed that it might take weeks to confirm that ivermectin was the cause of the individual's death, but his expectation was that it would be confirmed, while another severely ill patient was suspected of taking the drug.

That patient was being treated in an ICU bed at a time when the state's hospital system is on the cusp of crisis standards of care, with some hospitals overfull and ICU beds and ventilators in short supply.

Scrase did not provide the locations of the cases or other details.

New Mexico acting Health Secretary Dr. David Scrase speaks during a video news conference on Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021.

Ivermectin not approved for COVID-19 treatment

Ivermectin is occasionally prescribed for humans in specific doses for certain parasitic worms, skin conditions and head lice, either in pills or topical agents, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

'They don't trust big pharma': Jimmy Kimmel suggests packed hospitals should prioritize those who haven't taken ivermectin

It is also used in veterinary medicine for treating parasites in livestock and dogs. Formulations for treating animals, being highly concentrated, often prove toxic for humans. The New Mexico Department of Health also reports it can interact with other human medications and induce symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, reduced blood pressure and other side effects.

During the summer wave of COVID-19 cases driven by the highly contagious delta variant, more states have reported treatment of patients, including hospitalizations, for self-dosing of ivermectin. Overdoses of the drug are associated with seizures, coma and death.

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It is not an antiviral drug and the FDA has not approved it for treatment of COVID-19.

A sign at a Missouri store warns customers that Ivermectin is "for sale for animal use only."

Poison control centers see spike in calls about ivermectin

During the pandemic, however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that pharmacies are seeing spikes in demand for the drug, including veterinary formulations, leading to a tripling of calls to poison control centers.

While initial research into potential benefits as a treatment is underway, the National Institutes of Health said in February "there is insufficient evidence  to recommend either for or against the use of ivermectin for the treatment of COVID-19" absent rigorous clinical trials.

"There's a cult following for this drug," Scrase said Wednesday. "We don't think there's evidence for it to be effective in treating COVID by any stretch of the imagination."

Southern New Mexico congresswoman Yvette Herrell, a Republican, is the state's highest elected official who has advocated for researching the drug and has accused Democrats of playing politics with medicine.

Related story: Amazon to block some autocomplete search results for ivermectin, amid misuse for COVID-19

During an appearance Tuesday outside Holloman Air Force Base, Herrell was asked about ivermectin and replied, "I'm a huge proponent, under a doctor's orders, to try whatever other alternative there is."

U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell, a Republican., speaks to reporters outside Holloman Air Force Base near Alamogordo on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021.

'Don't take this medicine'

Pressed on the FDA's recommendation that it not be used as a treatment for COVID-19, Herrell replied, "We have over 180 million Americans that were vaccinated with a vaccine that wasn't FDA approved, so I think we should have options to whatever we want through the consultation of our doctors."

The three vaccines in use in the United States for COVID-19 received emergency use authorizations by the FDA in a process that involves rigorous clinical trials. The first of those to receive full approval was the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine approved on Aug. 23.

As of Wednesday, the CDC reported that 177 million Americans had completed a course of vaccine, while 208 million had received at least the initial dose of a two-shot vaccine or the single-dose Johnson and Johnson product.

Scrase decried widespread confusion and misinformation involving ivermectin and other non-approved treatments as well as COVID-19 vaccines.

"If you're a human being and you can hear this press conference, don't take this medicine," Scrase said.

Follow Algernon D'Ammassa on Twitter: @AlgernonWrites .

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Ivermectin suspected cause of fatal poisoning in New Mexico
Microsoft had a lot of news to share about remote work today, including a bunch of upcoming updates for Teams centered around hybrid meetings. But perhaps most pertinent to the company's employees was an announcement that it's delaying their return to the office yet again. Microsoft is putting the plans on hold indefinitely due to the COVID-19 delta variant.

Most recently, the aim was to fully reopen the headquarters in Redmond, Washington and several other US offices no earlier than October 4th. "Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, weve decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our US work sites in favor of opening US work sites as soon as were able to do so safely based on public health guidance." Jared Spataro, Microsoft's corporate vice president for modern work, wrote in a blog post.

Once Microsoft has a date in mind for reopening, it will tell workers about a 30-day transition period so they can make preparations. That window, according to Spataro, will let Microsoft "continue to be agile and flexible as we look to the data and make choices to protect employee health, safety and well-being." As The New York Times notes, Microsoft will require employees, vendors and guests to have proof of vaccination before being allowed to enter its offices.

"Its a stark reminder that this is the new normal," Spataro wrote. "Our ability to come together will ebb and flow."

With that in mind, it seems Microsoft employees will be taking advantage of the hybrid meeting features that are coming to Teams. They include support for intelligent cameras; more immersive PowerPoint presentations with live video in slides; a way to tell co-workers if you plan to attend meetings in person or remotely when you RSVP; and Apple CarPlay support for audio-only meetings.

Other major tech companies have delayed returns to the office. Amazon previously planned to bring corporate employees back to its offices this week. In August, it pushed back those plans once again, this time until January.
Microsoft (MSFT) is rolling out a number of new features for its Teams app that it says will make the change to hybrid work easier for companies as employees slowly trickle back into the workplace and set up shop in their own remote offices.

The features, which will begin rolling out in the coming weeks and months, will make remote workers feel more like part of team meetings, improve remote presentations, and let users join Teams meetings using Siri via Apples CarPlay.

Microsoft is rolling out a number of updates for its Teams platform in the coming weeks and months. (Image: Microsoft)

After working from home for more than a year, millions of Americans are now hoping to be able to continue the practice. In its first-annual Work Trends Index, Microsoft surveyed 30,000 people from 31 countries and found that 73% want to work from home at least part time. But the company says that businesses arent quite ready for the transition.

[The world is] woefully unprepared to create good experiences for this new hybrid way of working, Microsoft CVP of Modern Work Jared Spataro told Yahoo Finance.

If we assume that just about every organization is going to have people who are coming in virtually, all of a sudden, just with that simple kind of framing, we recognize we are not ready, we are very unprepared for what's about to happen.

The series of technologies include intelligent cameras that, when combined with the new software, will among other things, allow participants conference rooms to appear in their own chat windows within the Teams app as if they were joining remotely.

Cameo mode lets users stream their own video feed directly in PowerPoint, to provide more natural remote presentations. (Image: Microsoft)

The idea is to make it easier for remote workers to see everyone in a conference room, rather than staring down the center of a table and being unable to see anyone but those closest to the video camera.

That starts to become really powerful because people on the other end who are remote can actually see what's happening in the meeting, they get the sense that they are a full participant in the meeting because people are facing them, Spataro explained.

Beyond displaying multiple in-person participants in their own video panes, the feature will automatically track whos talking, using audio and facial movements to provide a better shot for remote workers. A people recognition feature will also show the name of in-person participants below their images, so you dont have to guess who anyone in the room is.

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Microsoft is also going to launch what it calls its Cameo feature in PowerPoint early next year. The feature will allow you to present PowerPoint presentations remotely while overlaying your video stream from your Teams app.

The thinking is that everyone who sees your PowerPoint remotely will also be able to see you give your presentation, making it feel a lot more personal than having to just watch slides pass by without any other human interaction.

Microsoft will bring Teams to Apple's CarPlay later this month, allowing users to join meetings from the road. (Image: Microsoft)

For workers on the go, Microsoft will also add the ability to join Teams meetings and make hands-free calls using Apples Siri voice assistant via Apple CarPlay.

You can actually say Hey, Siri, join this Teams meeting, and you can actually join the meeting, put yourself on mute, take yourself off mute and so there's quite a bit of safety involved, Spataro said.

The feature will roll out later this month.

Microsoft has been pushing Teams as the go-to for the new hybrid work environment for months, with the goal of battling the likes of Zoom and Googles own workplace collaboration software.

The app now has 250 million monthly active users, according to Microsofts latest earnings call. And with just 7.8% of more than 90 million meeting rooms worldwide equipped with video capabilities, according to Frost & Sullivan, the company has plenty of room to continue that growth.

Correction: A previous version of this article said Teams has 250 million daily active users when in fact it has 250 million monthly active users. The error has been corrected.

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Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky. AP Photo/Andrew Harnik

McConnell spoke about his opposition to a $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill pushed by Democrats.

"I pray for Manchin and Sinema every night," McConnell said of the two moderate Democratic senators.

The bill is central to Democrats' agenda and includes numerous social welfare investments.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Speaking to a group in Kentucky on Thursday, Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell signaled that he's counting on moderate Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona to block a core part of President Joe Biden's agenda.

"I pray for Manchin and Sinema every night, give them a lot of love, wish them well, and hope they can withstand the pressure," said McConnell, alluding to the fact that Democrats and progressives alike are counting on the two senators to eventually support the $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill under consideration this month.

"I can't speak for either one of them, but I think they know this is the wrong thing to do for the country," McConnell added. "I hope party loyalty is not a strong enough argument - or 'do it for the president' is not a strong enough argument - to prevent the defeat of this extraordinarily ill advised proposal."

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Manchin and Sinema have both said that they are opposed to the $3.5 trillion dollar price tag for the bill, which includes investments in social welfare programs like tuition-free community college, universal pre-K, Medicare expansion, and an extension of Biden's child allowance. Last week, Manchin said Democrats should "hit the pause button" on the legislation and urged Democrats to make cuts to the overall price tag.

"It's a big deal, it's hard to deny that," said McConnell. "Whether or not it's a good deal is another matter."

The bill is central to President Biden's legislative agenda and progressives have been outspoken in their support of the bill. After House Democratic Whip Jim Clyburn said on Wednesday that the $3.5 trillion price tag was the ceiling, rather than the floor, of the legislation's overall cost, progressive Michigan Rep. Rashida Tlaib said on Twitter that "$3.5T is the floor."

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At the same time, McConnell comments underscore how little Republicans are able to influence the process; if Manchin and Sinema can be persuaded to support the bill - or some version of it - along with the rest of the Democratic caucus, the legislation would pass in the Senate.

That's due to Senate rules around the reconciliation process, which allows certain budget-related legislation to pass with just 50 votes, rather than the usual 60-vote threshold.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Ahmed Eljechtimi

RABAT (Reuters) - Morocco's liberal RNI party has won most seats in the country's parliamentary elections followed by another liberal party, PAM, while co-ruling moderate PJD Islamists suffered a crushing defeat, preliminary results showed on Thursday.

RNI, led by billionaire agriculture minister Aziz Akhannouch, took 97 of the 395-seat parliament, followed by PAM with 82 seats and the conservative Istiqlal with 78 seats.

The PJD, which had been a coalition partner in the previous two governments had only taken 12 seats after a count of 96% of all parliamentary seats. The results show a massive turnaround in fortunes as the RNI had only won 37 seats at the last election in 2016, while the PJD took 125.RNI ministers controlled the key economic portfolios of agriculture, finance, trade and tourism in the outgoing government.Turnout in Wednesday elections improved to 50.3%, up from 43% in 2016, as Morocco held parliamentary and local elections on the same day.Morocco is a constitutional monarchy where the king holds sweeping powers in the North African country. He picks the prime minister from the party that won the most seats in parliament who will then form a cabinet and submits it for the King's approval.The Palace has the last say on appointments concerning key departments including the interior, foreign affairs and defence.

New voting rules were expected to make it harder for bigger parties to win as many seats as before, which means the RNI will have to enter into coalition talks to form a government.

The palace also sets the economic agenda for the country of 37 million people and has commissioned a development model that the new government is being asked to implement.

In a statement on Wednesday, the PJD accused rivals of buying votes, without naming any or providing details.

Despite having been the largest party since 2011, the PJD has failed to stop laws it opposes, including one to bolster the French language in education and another to allow cannabis for medical use.

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The PJD will move into the opposition if it does not win elections, Lahcen Daoudi, former PJD minister told reporters.

(This story corrects to add dropped words in paragraph 9)

(Reporting by Ahmed Eljechtimi; Editing by Christopher Cushing & Simon Cameron-Moore)
MUMBAI (Reuters) - As India's financial capital, Mumbai, gets ready for its biggest festival of the year, daily coronavirus cases have surged, rising more than two-fold in less than a month, even as authorities imposed curbs to prevent a further spike.

Markets were bustling and streets were crowded as people prepared for the 11-day festival of Ganesh Chaturthi, celebrating the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesha, which begins on Friday.

Coronavirus cases in the city, which were at a low of 190 on Aug. 16, rose to 530 daily infections on Wednesday, according to government data. Mumbai recorded a peak of 11,000 cases during India's devastating second wave this year, but won accolades for the way it recovered and curbed infections.

Most coronavirus-related restrictions have been lifted in the city, including on its famed local trains, which are now open to fully vaccinated travellers. But as the Ganesh festival approaches, authorities have imposed fresh curbs on public processions and restricted crowding at public pandals - temporary structures built to protect a shrine.

Before the coronavirus outbreak hit the city, thousands of people thronged the streets to pray to towering idols of Ganesha, which are placed at almost every street corner by local organisations and politicians, and on the last day of the festival, to immerse those idols in the sea.

This year, citizens are forbidden from visiting such pandals and the city's civic body, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, suggested that only 10 people, preferably fully vaccinated, should accompany the idol for immersion.

"The third wave is not coming. It is already here," Mumbai mayor Kishori Pednekar told reporters this week, urging citizens to stay home and celebrate the festival.

As the festival season gets under way in India, several states are preparing for a possible third wave of the coronavirus.

On Thursday, the health ministry said 43,263 fresh cases were reported overnight, taking its cumulative caseload to 33.14 millon.

(Reporting by Shilpa Jamkhandikar. Editing by Gerry Doyle)
With a new year about to start at his childrens Sunday school, Mansoor Shams volunteered to handle logistics for the youth groups semiannual field trip.

Calling ahead to a hotel in Niagara Falls, New York, he was asked what day theyd arrive. And he realized something that made his stomach churn: organizers had planned a trip on Sept. 11.

I found myself saying we were from a house of worship, not a mosque, so as not to arouse suspicions, says Shams, a U.S. Marine veteran who worships at Masjid Bait-us-Samad in Rosedale. Twenty years later, Muslim Americans shouldnt have to feel and act this way. But we do.

Saturday marks two decades since the day on which 19 al-Qaida terrorists crashed jetliners into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a Pennsylvania field, killing nearly 3,000 people.

Beyond the initial impacts, the destruction struck one section of the U.S. with uniquely disorienting force: the roughly 1% of Americans who identify as Muslim. Law enforcement infiltrated mosques, built no-fly lists and engaged in various forms of racial profiling. Bias incidents and hate crimes soared.

Though U.S. Muslims sought to emphasize that terrorism violates their core beliefs, most say theyve felt the sting of prejudice. And most say they still struggle with a question the attacks blew into the open: how to live an authentically Islamic life and feel American.

The Muslim Marine

The past few weeks have been a time of conflicting emotions for Shams, 39, of Pikesville, Maryland.

He moved to the U.S. from Pakistan with his family at age 6, later joined the Marines to escape a broken home and became a hard-core patriot during boot camp.

He was 19 and stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina on Sept. 11, 2001, and as news unfurled, he was shocked and angered as an American. Later, though, when buddies hed trained with started ragging him as Osama, he realized he wasnt the compadre hed thought he was.

He served four years before leaving the service. Id been so naive, he says.

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Shams earned an MBA at Johns Hopkins before finding his new calling: working to bridge the gap between Muslim and non-Muslim Americans. As the Muslim Marine, he speaks, writes columns for national publications and appears on TV to express an idea he calls essential: that Islam calls Muslims to be loyal to the country where they live.

He has written of his 12-year-old son being bullied over his faith. It unnerves him to wear traditional Pakistani garb to his mosque. News of the deaths of 13 U.S. troops in Afghanistan last month left him sobbing at the confusion and waste.

How far have we really come? he says.

The facilitator

Zainab Chaudry was settling in for a chemistry lecture at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy on Sept. 11 when a messenger entered and whispered something to her professor, who canceled class.

Before shed even heard news reports, her father called: Take off your head covering, he said. Ill explain when you get home.

Chaudry, then 19, removed her hijab, the veil some Muslim women wear, out of deference to her father, a Pakistani immigrant who feared a backlash. Days later, she put it back on.

Taking off the hijab, it felt like I was admitting that the actions of these terrorists did reflect my religion, she recalls. I felt like it was my duty to reclaim my faith.

Such seemingly small choices, the Baltimore native says, were pivotal for the millions who were put on the spot by hijackers who twisted our faith to justify these terrible acts. Seeing Muslims Americanize their names or shave their beards inspired her toward social activism.

Now state director for Americas largest Muslim advocacy group, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Chaudry works long hours publicizing hate crimes and bias incidents. She promotes responses to bullying and discrimination, lobbies lawmakers and organizes fundraising and relief efforts. These days shes working with area mosques to provide supplies and social support for refugees from Afghanistan.

I wouldnt change the course of my career for anything, she says.

The organizer

Nabeehah Azeez absorbed early the teachings of Elijah Muhammad, the self-proclaimed messenger of Allah who popularized the Nation of Islam, and his son, Imam W. Deen Muhammad, who spliced in elements of the faiths Sunni branch.

To Azeez, a community organizer from West Baltimore, both men advanced Islam among African Americans, boosting pride in a religion that enslaved Africans brought to America in the 17th century.

As Muslims from the Middle East and elsewhere began pouring into the U.S. starting in the 1960s, though, little communication developed across cultural lines, leaving Americas older Muslim communities isolated from their brethren. That, Azeez believes, is why the 9/11 attacks affected Black Muslims differently: mainstream America generally spared them backlash.

But the sudden spotlight on Muslims of Middle Eastern heritage left many with the impression that other Islamic cultures didnt exist or didnt matter.

It almost delegitimized the struggles of African Americans that were already taking place, says Azeez, adding that theres a big issue with racism and segregation in the Islamic community, especially in America, where were so diverse.

To Azeez, 34, Islam can be empowered if Muslims focus on its goals  promoting peace, helping the needy, building moral communities. She works as an administrator with the No Boundaries Coalition, a nonprofit that seeks to empower youth, foster community leadership and bolster voting.

We should see ourselves as one community, she says. If Im the only Muslim that a person meets, and I give a good impression, that helps.

The professor

Ask Homayra Ziad about 9/11s impact, and prepare for a multilayered lecture  fitting for the director of the Program in Islamic Studies at Johns Hopkins.

To Ziad, 44, a Muslim American born in Pakistan, the first step toward healing is to establish a sense of what Islam is and isnt.

Despite the fact that we have a historically diverse community, she says, powerful forces on the post-9/11 landscape are incentivized to promote stereotypes of Muslims as foreign, violent and people who hate the U.S.

Ziad cites the military-industrial complex as one that exploits such portrayals to build support for wars like the 20-year Afghanistan conflict. The result, in her view: thousands of battlefield deaths and countless ruined lives, but also acceptance of civil rights violations ranging from the surveillance of mosques to inappropriate deportation and torture.

That, she says, makes accurate teaching of Islam a matter of life and death. As part of a course shes teaching on 9/11s effects, shes teaming with a community-based nonprofit, the Justice for Muslims Collective, to illustrate how such concessions promote Islamophobia.

The growing number of people committed to such work makes Ziad largely optimistic. I have a lot of hope, she says.

The diplomat

A year before 9/11, Muhamad Bashar Arafat, then campus imam at Johns Hopkins and Muslim chaplain of the Baltimore Police Department, grew dismayed at the notion that Muslim and American cultures were so different they would inevitably collide.

I was extremely bothered by this, because to me, even though there might be a clash of interests, civilizations have always borrowed from each other, says Arafat, 59, a religious leader who studies how ideas migrate across cultures.

So the Syria native created a program to promote understanding between Muslims and people of other faiths. The Civilizations Exchange and Cooperation Foundation, now a partner of the U.S. State Department, has hosted students from 70 countries and held symposia at 47 U.S. embassies.

Its idea  that dialogue promotes peace and is more far more affordable than fighting  bears weight in the wake of the war in Afghanistan, which Arafat says kept going far longer than it should have.

I feel so sad now when I see what has happened, he says. I knew from the get-go this was a war of ideologies. Now, after 20 years, weve replaced the Taliban with the Taliban. We need something beyond F-35 [jets] and Tomahawk missiles.

CCEF has partnered with local universities to found a degree-granting program, the School of Religious Diplomacy for Leadership Development, which Arafat hopes will open for business from its Columbia headquarters. Arafat sees it as a way to prevent another 9/11.

We have funded wars enough for 20 years, he says. Its time to fund peace.

____
Joel Dommett hosts this year's rescheduled National Television Awards. (Indigo Television/ITV)

Awards season gets going on TV tonight, with ITV dedicating most of the evening to The National Television Awards.

If you're more of a music lover, tune in to BBC Four where the winner of the Mercury Prize will be announced live.

Read more: Joel Dommett to host rescheduled NTAs

True crime fans won't want to miss new series A Killing in Tiger Bay, a documentary about a miscarriage of justice murder case, while there's drama of a different kind on E4 with Married At First Sight UK's first-ever commitment ceremony.

Finally, the brilliant Ambulance on BBC One gives a look at how the service coped during the pandemic.

The National Television Awards - ITV - 7.30pm

Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield are usually big winners. (Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images)

It's one of the highlights of the TV calendar, with the great and good of the small screen gathering to celebrate the best shows of the past year, but there's been a long wait after this year's ceremony was postponed.

We're expecting the usual focus on big winners Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, Ant and Dec, and the Strictly team, but there's also controversy with Piers Morgan up for best presenter for his former job at Good Morning Britain.

Read more: Piers Morgan amused to be nominated for best presenter NTA

One thing missing this year will be Holly and Phil's hungover appearance on This Morning the next day as Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary host Friday, but will they continue the tradition?

A Killing in Tiger Bay  BBC Two  9pm

A Killing in Tiger Bay follows the case of the Cardiff 5. (BBC)

New three-part true crime documentary A Killing in Tiger Bay tells the story of one of our greatest ever miscarriages of justice from a 1988 murder case.

When 20-year-old Lynette White was killed in Cardiff's docklands, all the evidence pointed to a single white male having done it  but the investigation somehow led to the arrest of five Black men.

The documentary looks at how the investigation went so badly wrong and what really happened in Tiger Bay.

Mercury Prize 2021 Live: Album of the Year  BBC Four  9pm

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Lauren Laverne is back to host the prize again. (Ian West/PA Images via Getty Images)

If TV awards aren't so much your thing as music, head over to BBC Four for the return of the prestigious Mercury Prize hosted once again by Lauren Laverne.

The 12 acclaimed albums up for the prize are Collapsed in Sunbeams (Arlo Park), Demotape/Vega (Berwyn), For the First Time (Black Country, New Road), Not Your Muse (Celeste), Promises (Floating Points, Pharoah Sanders and the London Symphony Orchestra), Conflict of Interest (Ghetts), Fir Wave (Hannah Peel), Pink Noise (Laura Mvula), As the Love Continues (Mogwai), Source (Nubya Garcia), Untitled - Rise (Sault) and Blue Weekend (Wolf Alice).

Of course, there'll be a chance to hear some of the nominated music, too, before the winner is announced.

Married At First Sight UK  E4  9pm

Ant and Nikita have a lot to say about their honeymoon. (Channel 4)

Married At First Sight UK has had a glossy Australian-style makeover, and after Wednesday night's dramatic dinner party scenes, we now head into the first commitment ceremony of the series.

For the uninitiated, this means the group gather together with the experts to rehash every argument and slight of the past week in a painfully awkward encounter, before being given the chance to either profess undying love or bail on the marriage.

Read more: Married At First Sight UK removes Nikita for 'unacceptable behaviour'

Australia's ceremonies have included admissions of cheating and requests to recouple with a different spouse  will the Brits follow suit?

Ambulance  BBC One  9pm

The ambulance service struggles to cope with the demands of the pandemic. (Dragonfly Film and Television/Ryan McNamara/BBC)

The medical documentary series obviously has a huge theme to showcase this series - and in Thursday's episode, we get a glimpse at how the North West Ambulance Service coped with staff shortages during the pandemic.

With 999 calls on the rise, staff off sick and a huge number of call outs to cover, the service brings in emergency staffing measures by giving military personnel a three-day crash course in joining them.

Watch: GMB presenters react to Piers Morgan's National Television Awards nomination
On Monday, an on-duty private security officer was assigned to drive a 14-year-old in need of psychological treatment to a Charlotte hospital.

Along the way, police say, he pulled over and had sex with the girl.

Now, David Logan Marsh of Waxhaw faces an array of criminal charges, including statutory rape of a child and two counts each of indecent liberties with a child and sexual activity by a custodian.

In North Carolina, its illegal for an adult  someone 18 or older  to have sex with a minor, even if its consensual.

In Marshs case, the 31-year-old has been accused of statutory rape of a child 15 or younger in which the age difference is six years or more.

According to Charlotte-Mecklenburg police, the 14-year-old had been the subject of a recent involuntary commitment order. The assault occurred Monday while Marsh, an employee with the private security firm G4S, was driving the youth from a Rowan County hospital to Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, police and court documents reveal.

According to documents, the 6-foot-tall, 275-pound Marsh pulled over on a service road in Charlotte where the girl performed oral sex on him. The two also had intercourse.

The youth later reported the incident to a Novant medical professional, and a sexual assault kit was collected, police and documents say.

CMPD says detectives questioned Marsh on Wednesday at the police department. Court documents allege that Marsh confessed to having consensual intercourse and oral sex with the girl and that he knew she was underage.

Marsh was arrested after the interview and appeared in court Thursday. He remained in custody Thursday afternoon at the Mecklenburg County Jail on $375,000 bond.

G4S is a British security company with offices in Charlotte and across the country. Its area clients include health care facilities and the Charlotte Area Transit System.

The companys website highlights its handling of behavioral-health patients, saying its staff provides a dignified, empathetic and respectful transportation service for mental health patients in order to decrease law enforcement involvement and further patient trauma.

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In a Thursday statement to the Observer, the company said it is gathering evidence in the matter, cooperating with police and will take appropriate action based on the findings.

G4S is committed to the highest standards of business ethics and conduct, including treating everyone with dignity and respect and has a zero tolerance approach to employee behavior which fails to meet this standard.

Under N.C. law, patients in involuntary commitments  to the extent feasible  are to be transported by a driver or attendant of the same sex unless the law enforcement officer involved allows a family member to ride along.

Asked later Thursday if it is standard company policy to place a teenage girl experiencing emotional crisis in the custody of a lone male security officer, G4S did not immediately respond.

Novant did not immediately respond to a series of Observer emails Thursday seeking comment.
FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (AP)  One of college footballs most storied rivalries ended 30 years ago when Arkansas left the Southwest Conference for the greener pastures of the Southeastern Conference.

The Razorbacks played Texas nearly 80 times before Arkansas switched, and many of those battles played prominently on the national stage. The most famous was The Big Shootout in 1969 when the Longhorns rallied late in the fourth quarter to edge the Hogs 15-14 and claim the national championship with President Richard Nixon in attendance.

Saturdays game in the Ozarks wont carry the significance of those great games of the 1960s, but the matchup with No. 15 Texas (1-0) will mark Arkansas' first sellout since 2017 and is likely a preview of things to come once the Longhorns join the SEC in 2025.

Pretty cool to think this is the 79th time these two schools have met said first-year Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, who won his debut at home last Saturday against Louisiana-Lafayette. We are old Southwest Conference foes. We obviously have a great amount of respect for Arkansas. They play hard, they are physical and they are tough. We know its going to be a hostile environment.

Sarkisian has seen first-hand the atmosphere in Fayetteville as an assistant coach at Alabama. But even that likely wont prepare him for the greeting he will receive when he trots onto the field in front of what likely will be the largest crowd in the history of Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

Texas running back Bijan Robinson gives Sarkisian confidence. Robinson ran for 104 yards on 20 carries and scored a rushing and receiving touchdown in the 38-18 win last week.

Arkansas (1-0) is coming off a 38-17 home win against former SWC foe Rice. The Razorbacks trailed 17-7 at one point in the game before scoring 31 straight points keyed by two interceptions from safety Jalon Catalon that set up two short touchdowns.

ON TARGET

Two Arkansas linebackers were ejected from last weeks game for targeting. All-America linebacker Grant Morgan played just a handful of snaps before he was tossed after a hit on Rice quarterback Wiley Green in the first quarter. Bumper Pool, the other starting linebacker, was ejected with a little over eight minutes left after a hit on a Rice receiver. Morgan will not have to sit out any of the Texas game, but Pool will miss the first half.

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NOT SO SPECIAL TEAMS

Against Rice, Arkansas fumbled the opening kickoff, had a punt blocked and shanked another punt. The blocked punt led to a Rice field goal.

I think we have to simplify and make sure we all know what were doing, coach Sam Pittman said. We read the demeanor of the guy instead of making sure that we blocked him. They werent trying to block the punt or anything, we just let a guy go. Certainly, we have to try and win special teams, and you talk about it all the time. You cant win games getting punts blocked.

RIDGEWAY TO RETURN

Arkansas defensive tackle John Ridgeway, a transfer from Illinois State who had an appendectomy a week ago, is expected to play Saturday against Texas.

Hes looked great, Pittman said. Im not a doctor so Im not sure how long it takes to come back from that surgery, but I do know that we were anticipating two weeks and its going be one week. Hes a tough guy and doesnt seem to be having any pain from it at all after practice.

SARK HIGH ON CARD

Sarkisian was pleased with Hudson Card's performance in his first start. Card completed 14 of 21 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns and also ran for a score in the opener against Louisiana-Lafayette after winning the starting quarterback battle with Casey Thompson.

Sarkisian said he thinks Card will be able to handle his first road game on Saturday.

His personality  hes just an even-keel demeanor guy, Sarkisian said. This will be another new for him. I cant predict the future, but were going to do everything we can to have him ready.

STRENGTH vs. STRENGTH

Arkansas' Trelon Smith rushed for 102 yards on 22 carries and scored a touchdown against Rice. He might find the going tough against a Texas defense that held the Ragin' Cajuns to 76 yards rushing.

___

More AP college football: https://apnews.com/Collegefootball and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25
Despite the White House's reassurance that boosters for Johnson & Johnson are likely on their way, J&J vaccine recipients feel left out of the conversation, the Washington Post reports.

Why it matters: The administration has said it is eyeing boosters for the mRNA shots available from Pfizer and Moderna and the FDA will meet regarding Pfizer's booster data in mid-September. (Moderna may come later.)

But while the White House has said it is looking at J&J boosters, the plans have not yet publicly included them.

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Weve kind of left people who got J&J high and dry, we have no idea what to tell them, a federal health official tells the Post.

What's happening: A small preprint study showed the J&J shot can provide protection from the Delta variant.

Another says overall healthy people could have immunity from severe disease for at least eight months. J&J shots reached Americans' arms about seven months ago and some recipients are getting nervous.

What to watch: A booster trial in South Africa by J&J could be underway in October after the companys shot was used in a trial of nearly half a million health workers in the country, Bloomberg reports.

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Nxivm co-founder Nancy Salzman was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison on Wednesday for her role in running and enabling the cult that entangled Hollywood figures and subjected members to sexual abuse.

Details: She has been ordered to turn herself in to the authorities on Jan. 19, 2022.

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Salzman pleaded guilty in March of 2019 to one count of racketeering conspiracy.

Backstory: Salzman served as president of the cultlike self-help organization helmed by Keith Raniere. The criminal aspects of the operation were exposed in 2018, per the DOJ.

Salzman pled guilty in March of 2019 for her role in running Nxivm.

The prosecution said that Salman helped enable Raniere to gain access to victims, per the DOJ.

Salzman's attorneys maintained that Salzman was unaware of Raniere's secret group, DOS, the source of the abuse allegations and focus of the criminal probe.

What they're saying: I apologize to everyone I hurt, intentionally and not, Salzman said. I dont know that I can ever forgive myself.

Meanwhile: Raniere was convicted of several charges in 2019 and sentenced to life in prison. He was also ordered to pay $3.4 million in restitution to 21 victims who had been branded with his initials.

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By Tangi Salaun and Lucien Libert

PARIS (Reuters) -The main suspect in the 2015 Islamist attack that killed 130 people in Paris disrupted the trial for a second consecutive day on Thursday to make political statements from the dock, prompting the judge to briefly suspend the hearing.

Salah Abdeslam, 31, is believed by prosecutors to be the only surviving member of the Islamic State cell that carried out the gun-and-bomb attacks on bars, restaurants, the Bataclan concert hall and the Stade de France stadium on Nov. 13, 2015.

The presiding judge granted him the right to speak in a discussion about which victims' representatives would be allowed to participate in the trial.

Abdeslam asked whether the victims of wars in Syria and Iraq would also be invited to testify, and alleged that he and his fellow defendants were being treated as if they had already been found guilty.

He also said that some of his co-accused - those suspected of helping him get back to Brussels, where he is from, after the attacks - were not involved in the Paris attack plot, and had only helped him out of generosity because they were his friends.

Judge Jean-Louis Peries repeatedly told Abdeslam that he was straying off the topic of the hearing, and eventually cut off his microphone.

"Let me remind you that you have had five years to explain yourself and you said nothing," Peries told Abdeslam, referring to the time police and magistrates spent investigating the attacks and preparing the trial.

Abdeslam would be welcome to speak later in the proceedings, Peries said, adding: "Now is not the moment, this is a technical debate."

Abdeslam continued to talk after that, and the judge ordered a suspension of the hearing. It resumed about 25 minutes later.

On the opening day of the trial on Wednesday, Abdeslam told the court he was a soldier of Islamic State, the ultra-radical militant group, and later shouted out in the courtroom that he and his co-defendants were being treated like dogs.

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Some representatives of victims and survivors of the 2015 attacks have said they expected such outbursts and were doing their best to ignore him. Others expressed dismay that Abdeslam was using the trial as a platform to express his views.

"It's very hard for the victims to hear those kinds of statements," said lawyer Catherine Szwarc, who represents seven victims.

Gaetan Honore, 44, who was in the Bataclan theatre on the night of the attacks and managed to escape unhurt, said he wondered how Abdeslam "can hang on to that kind of attitude, with the victims (in the courtroom)."

The start of the trial, "which was meant to be technical, is rich in emotions, and not necessary pleasant emotions," he said. "This will last nine months. It will be quite a challenge."

Victim testimonies are set to begin on Sept. 28. Questioning of the accused will start in November but they are not set to testify about the night of the attacks until March. The verdict is expected in late May 2022.

(Reporting by Tangi Salaun and Lucien Libert, writing by Christian Lowe and Ingrid Melander, editing by Mark Heinrich)
PayPal logo on a phone sitting against a keyboard in close-up

PayPal is introducing new fees for payments between businesses in the UK and those in Europe, from November.

British businesses will be charged a 1.29% fee for payments from the European Economic Area and vice versa.

Most currently pay about 0.5% in similar charges, which have remained unchanged since before the UK left the EU customs union and single market.

PayPal said it was now incurring extra costs, such as the rise in interchange fees between the UK and EEA.

European rules capping credit and debit card interchange fees at 0.2% and 0.3% no longer apply to UK businesses.

And both Visa and Mastercard have announced they will raise them fivefold from mid-October.

'Highly competitive'

The EEA is made up of the 27 remaining European Union states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

And the new charges apply to the whole of the UK, Guernsey, Jersey, Gibraltar, and the Isle of Man.

Most businesses will see their current 0.5% fee raised to 1.29% - still lower than PayPal's standard 1.99% for the rest of the world - but some of those with their own customised agreements with PayPal will have their existing rate raised by 1.29%.

The new fee was first mentioned on the same day the company announced it would accept cryptocurrency Bitcoin but details were not released until this week.

PayPal said it was "simplifying" its cross-border fees.

"In a highly competitive market, this will make it easier for these businesses to compare PayPal's pricing with that of other providers and to better appreciate the value we provide," it said.

'Stronger support'

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said any rise in payment-platform fees "is unwelcome news for small businesses and entrepreneurs".

"Since the start of the year, around one in four small exporters have stopped exporting to the EU, citing amongst other reasons the costs involved in selling to EU-based customers," vice-chairman Martin McTague said.

And over the past three months, a little over 40% of small exporters said the value of their exports had dropped.

"We need to see stronger support for small exporters from the government, including a relaunched SME [Small and Medium Enterprises]Brexit Support Fund and a reformed Tradeshow Access Programme," McTague added.
Safia Elhillo was a freshman in high school when she started keeping a diary to record her heartbreaks. All of her entries were poems, so if her parent ever found them, she could hide behind the metaphors and pretend she wasn't dating.

Younger poets of color now look up to Elhillo as a trailblazer. Her latest poetry collection, January Children, tackles the complications of diaspora and language rooted in her identity as a Sudanese American writer.

You don't need a master of fine arts degree to write poetry, Elhillo said. Poetry doesn't require more than a pen and a piece of paper.

Last summer, Elhillo led a number of free writing workshops through Not a Cult Media, the indie publisher where she's an editor.

"It would really break my heart to feel like someone didnt have access to poetry resources because of prohibitive costs since so many of the resources I received as a young person, that made me into a poet, were free," said Elhillo. "So I try to offer workshop resources for free whenever possible"

Jumping into poetry can feel like high diving. Here's some advice from Elhillo and fellow poets Matthew "Cuban" Hernandez, Alyesha Wise, Noor Hindi, Gabriel Cortez and Ariana Brown to help you overcome your fear of heights  and tell you how deep poetry flows.

Why poetry?

Elhillo said it all began when her friend invited her to her first open mic event. As she performed, her voice shook and she lost her place a couple of times. But her words were her ticket to join the orbit of enigmatic poets who frequented poetry venues.

You might be wondering why poetry even matters. Its a stuffy, outdated and overly complicated form of language, right? And it can be intimidating for some because of the ways we are taught poetry in school  for example, the emphasis on Shakespeare's plays and their dense and unfamiliar dialect, or the scant attention paid to works by women and people of color.

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But poetry is more than just the legacy of dead white guys (Edgar Allan Poe, Robert Frost, William Wordsworth and so on). Poets like myself, especially LGBTQ writers and poets of color, are invested in using poetry as a vehicle to appreciate the world around us today, to spark conversations and social change, and most importantly, to relate to our communities.

In contemporary poetry, you can find poets from many underrepresented communities who are commanding attention and speaking their truths.

Theres poetry about a future without oppressive policing, love poetry in the context of the doom of climate change and poetry about cancer post-surgery. You want a new flavor of poetry? Contemporary poets have it.

What counts as poetry?

Poetry exists in our everyday  even when we use similes or metaphors to tell stories to our friends  so there are no limits in how it appears in our lives. You've probably encountered poetry in spaces where you haven't recognized it as such. That Bible verse by King David in Psalms? Poetry. Kendrick Lamar's music? Poetry.

Just as poetry can be appreciated in many ways, it's also created in different mediums. Poetry can be performed on the stage as spoken word, written on the page, sung or rapped.

There aren't strict rules for what is poetry unless you're trying to adhere to a specific form like the sestina, haiku or limerick. (You may also invent your own form like Terrance Hayes' pecha kucha ) . In those instances, there's a lot of poetry jargon like meter and rhyme.

Noor Hindi is a poet and journalist based in Akron, Ohio, whose poem, "F Your Lecture On Craft, My People Are Dying," has resonated with thousands of readers. While other poets might spend years studying the scansion of poetry, she said shes not as interested in form.

Poetry can tackle topics as wide-ranging as nature, racism or queerness. But Hindi said it's frustrating that the diversity of genres isnt often recognized.

"Somebody who's not familiar with poetry would think like Walt Whitman is in the same category as somebody like Danez Smith," said Hindi.

Disliking a specific poem doesn't necessarily mean you aren't meant to appreciate poetry. It could mean you haven't found a poem that resonates yet.

How do I get started?

I've been writing poetry since high school, but it wasn't until I was given a scholarship to study with teaching artists Matthew "Cuban" Hernandez and Alyesha Wise through their L.A.-based organization Spoken Literature Art Movement (S.L.A.M.) that I began pursuing this craft seriously. Finding a writing community is one of the best ways to receive mentorship, feedback and support as you explore poetry.

Attend your local open mic events, Wise said.

Amid the pandemic and social distancing efforts, there are also virtual ways of accessing poetry, whether that's through Instagram live, Zoom meetings or recorded YouTube performances.

Being around other poets can be infectious.

"When I feel like I don't have any type of inspiration, I need to surround myself with poets or poetry," said Cuban.

Hearing good writing and performance can encourage us to write ourselves.

Hindi remembers reading Tarfia Faizullah's poetry for the first time and the power of feeling seen through Faizullahs writing in a new and unexpected way.

It was honestly the first time that I had seen someone  contemporary and alive writing right now as I was living  who captured a part of my life, said Hindi.

When writing a new poem, Gabriel Cortez, the director of programming at Youth Speaks and co-founder of The Root Slam based in the Bay Area, encourages his students to break down their preconceived notions of how a poem or a poet is supposed to sound.

It's okay if you don't leave his classes identifying as a poet, Cortez said. What's more important to him is empowering people with the words to make a difference in their lives and in their communities.

"I want folks to come out of the space feeling a little bit more confident in telling their story," said Cortez. "We believe in the necessity of everyone to speak up in order for movements for justice to work."

Start following poets you like and to see what events they do so you can study their work.

Ariana Brown, a poet from San Antonio, has reached hundreds of thousands with their words online, and last summer they invited their followers for free live writing workshops on YouTube .

In Youth Speaks writing workshops, Cortez reminds young writers, "the standard is yourself," to encourage them to challenge themselves without feeling the weight of comparing their work.

It's the honesty of your work that matters most, Wise said. If they are having writer's block, she encourages writers to tap into their joy and playful spirit.

"Whatever you're feeling, if it comes from a genuine place, just say it," said Wise. "There's so much magic and glory [in our subconscious]."

How can you share your poetry?

Maybe you're a hobbyist like me who's now serious about writing poetry. When Youth Speaks published three of my poems in its anthology "Between My Body and the Air" and had me interview a poet for the organization's Instagram live feed, it gave me the confidence to call myself a working artist.

Some poets like Yesika Salgado or Rupi Kaur share their poetry online on Instagram, while others might publish their work exclusively in journals. Eventually, you may work up to a full-length book.

Publishing poems in print anthologies and periodicals makes it more difficult for readers to access a poem unless they purchase a copy, but that's where writers and editors are more likely to be compensated for their work. And the prestige around a publication may earn you a reputation.

Online journals are more widely accessible and writers and editors may also be compensated, depending on the publication. But journals might have submission fees and long waiting periods before review.

This may be why Instapoetry has gained traction in recent years .

Instagram is an easy and accessible way to share your art with a larger audience. Lines can be pithy and eye-grabbing in ways that make the words digestible on a visually-based medium. For both the reader and the artist, there's immediate feedback and conversation which can be both refreshing and encouraging.

If you're set on publishing in journals, Hindi says a great place to start is to look in your favorite poetry books' acknowledgment section, which is where writers typically thank the journals that initially published their poems. It's best to familiarize yourself with the journals and publishers you are interested in submitting to. Learn whether the publisher allows you to submit your poems to other outlets while you're waiting to be accepted or rejected. It's also great to keep track of where and when you've submitted . Once a poem has been accepted, you'll need to notify other journals and withdraw your poem from their publications.

As we're gaining a better awareness of poetry, we might think of some works as "bad" and others as "good." But Brown doesn't attempt to place labels on poems because everyone has distinct preferences.

"Every poems goal is different," said Brown. "People are allowed to write about and be interested in whatever they want, as long as its not harmful or exploitative."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Prince Harry will reunite with the royals for a documentary about his grandfather. Victoria Jones - WPA Pool/Getty Images, Pool/Max Mumby/Getty Images

Prince Harry will join Prince William and other royals in paying tribute to Prince Philip.

The royals will appear in a documentary about Philip's life, which airs on the BBC on September 22.

Philip died on April 9 at the age of 99.

Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

The Duke of Sussex is set to take part in his first royal family project since quitting official duties last year.

Prince Harry will appear alongside other royals, including Prince William and Prince Charles, in a BBC documentary about the late Prince Philip.

The program, which will air on September 22, was originally commissioned to celebrate Philip's 100th birthday in June of this year. It has been repurposed as a tribute film following his death on April 9, according to a BBC press release.

"For the first time on television, more than a dozen members of the Royal family offer their personal thoughts and reflections as they pay an historic tribute to the extraordinary life of His Royal Highness Prince Philip Duke of Edinburgh," the press release reads.

"All the children of the Queen and the Duke, along with their adult grandchildren and other members of the Royal family have agreed to take part in this unique portrait of the longest-serving consort in royal history," it added.

More than a dozen royals, including Philip's children, Princess Anne and Prince Edward, and his grandchildren, Princess Beatrice, Princess Eugenie, Peter Phillips, Zara Tindall, and Lady Louise Windsor, are confirmed to appear in the project, according to The Telegraph.

Prince Andrew will also appear in the documentary, a spokesperson for the BBC told Insider.

The Duke of Edinburgh died on April 9 at the age of 99 after previously being hospitalized for four weeks earlier this year, in what the palace initially described as a precautionary measure for a preexisting condition.

Harry flew from California to attend the funeral at St George's Chapel in Windsor on April 17. However, Markle, who was pregnant at the time, did not receive medical clearance to fly and watched the ceremony on TV, her spokesperson previously told Insider.

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Markle and Kate Middleton will not appear in the documentary. A spokesperson for the BBC told Insider that "no spouses of the grandchildren are interviewed" for the project.

Representatives for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Insider
JUNG YEON-JE/AFP via Getty Images

North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un was natty in a light gray suit, smiling broadly as he greeted red-scarfed Young Pioneers high on the reviewing stand before thousands of his subjects summoned at midnight for a parade marking the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea on Thursday.

Beneath the forced gaiety, however, was an obvious reality. Economic duress, poverty, and hunger had to take priority while his vaunted missiles, so proudly shown off at the last big military parade in January, remained in storage. Instead, old artillery pieces and armored vehicles trundled by, accompanied by high-stepping troops as the crowds cheered in unison, on command.

But Kims appearance at the parade also may have conveyed an upbeat message. Contrary to so many negative reports over the years about his weight and health, he did look fine in the photos. His weight was down, which may have been one reason for him to show up conspicuously while saying nothing beyond a few words of greeting.

Instead of listening to rhetoric, citizens had to read the state media for inspiration. Our Republic is a valuable crystal of the people-first idea and guidance of the peerlessly great men, effused Rodong Sinmun, the party paper. The cause of building a socialist state centered on the popular masses has entered a new stage of its development under the guidance of the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un.

The blitz of verbiage scarcely hid the strangeness of the parade, including the insistence on holding it at midnight rather than upsetting a skeptical populace by staging the spectacle in daylight hours.

The masses, as Kim himself has made publicly plain in a series of speeches before the politburo and party congress, are far more concerned about getting their next bowl of rice than hearing about nukes and missiles.

The mass craving for food is tense, Kim acknowledged at the latest politburo meeting, conjuring memories of the great famine of the mid-1990s when as many as two million died of hunger and disease in the worst period of the countrys history since the Korean War.

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Yes, one of the purposes of North Korean military parades is to divert the elite and public attention from the Norths internal problems, Bruce Bennett, North Korea expert at the Rand Corporation, told The Daily Beast. Bennett cited a lack of food and consumer goods, corruption, and brutal Kim purges. Always, he said, Kim must create the perception that the North is superior to the South and would thus be able to dominate the South at some point in the not-too-distant future.

He Was Kim Jong Uns Party Pal. Now He Rots in a Chinese Prison.

The bizarre nature of this parade, said Bennett, suggests Kim is also conveying another message, telling the Norths elites, We are getting therealbeit not yet.

Despite pervasive economic duress, North Korea still is not reporting the spread of COVID-19 that Kim still claims has not killed or even stricken any of his people. Marchers clad in protective gear, from masked faces to white footgear, belied the impression that his country, from which most foreigners, including diplomats and UN people, have fled in recent months, was not deeply concerned about the pandemic.

But while shutting borders and refraining from ordering missile tests, Kim has been able to conduct at least some business as usual.

The International Atomic Energy Agency reports the reactor at the main nuclear complex at Yongbyon, about 60 miles north of Pyongyang, is again humming away, presumably fabricating more nuclear warheads. North Korea is believed to have about 60 warheads but has not tested a nuke since Kim ordered the sixth underground test in September 2017.

Climate change, as Kim made clear in his remarks to the top echelons of the party, over which he reigns as chairman, is clearly taking its toll, as seen in the twin menaces of floods and drought on top of erosion and crop failures. North Korea, like the rest of the world, is vulnerable.

One reason Kim has not displayed his galaxy of missiles may be that South Korea has beaten North Korea to the draw in conducting its first test of an SLBM, submarine-launched ballistic missile. One SLBM was dragged through Pyongyang aboard a massive Chinese-made vehicle at the Norths parade in January, but North Korea watchers are still waiting for the North to test the darn thing.

North Korea Fires Off First Missiles of Biden Presidency

Meanwhile, South Koreas Yonhap news agency reported three days ago that the Souths Agency for Defense Development had test-fired an SLBM from a 3,000-ton submarine. After a round of additional tests, the SLBM will be mass-produced for deployment, said Yonhap, making the South the eighth country in the world to develop an SLBM after the United States, Russia, Britain, France, India, China, and North Korea.

Evans Revere, a former senior diplomat at the American embassy in Seoul, called the South Korean SLBM test the most interesting missile-related development on the peninsula recently.

That test, he said, was a useful reminder to Pyongyang that two can play this game and that Seoul is prepared to take major steps to defend itself against the Norths nuclear and missile threats. It was a welcome and unusual change of pace from the Moon administrations policy of offering Pyongyang nothing but starry-eyed calls for dialogue and engagementwhich Pyongyang has treated with contempt.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, as the world confronts another zeitgeist-defining emergency, its good to be reminded of simple human kindness, the kind of charity too modest for fanfare, something as basic yet profound as a stranger bearing a blanket or plate of food in an hour of need.

Come From Away, the 2017 Broadway musical with a heartwarming story set in the immediate aftermath of that September day, follows the advice that young Fred Rogers received from his mother when frightened by events in the news: Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.

Written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, this lovably hokey show, which has been successfully recorded on film, is available for streaming on Apple TV+ starting Sept. 10. It turns out that the screen provides a surprisingly hospitable frame for a musical that is quite purely and unabashedly  at times even downright earnestly  a work of theater.

The staging, which earned Christopher Ashley a Tony Award, retains its gallop even on a laptop. Despite my slight fatigue with a musical that has tenaciously hung around longer than I would have expected, I was stirred once again by a real-life 9/11 tale that takes place far away from ground zero, the Pentagon and the field in Pennsylvania where brave passengers brought the final hijacked plane down.

Gander, the Canadian backwater on the north-east tip of North America on an island called Newfoundland, might seem tangential to the point of absurdity as a locale. But the town sits beside an airport that was once a key refueling stop for transatlantic flights, and when U.S. airspace was shut down to commercial traffic that airport became a refuge for planes that were stranded in the air.

Passengers and flight crews nearly doubled the population of Gander, adding 7,000 people from different countries as well as a number of cats and dogs, not to mention a pair of rare bonobos, one of which was pregnant. Barriers of language, culture, religion and even species would be dissolved in the exigency of a moment no one knew how long might last.

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The townsfolk, shocked by the images of destruction being broadcast around the world, swung into action, gathering food, medicine and hygiene products while setting up shelters for the helpless travelers. A local SPCA volunteer weaved around security protocols to attend to the animals, which were as anxious as their human counterparts.

In Homer, hospitality is a sacred responsibility, a fundamental law of Zeus, the protector of strangers. Gander residents renewed this rite not out of fear of divine punishment but as an affirmation of civilization, which extends cooperation and reciprocity beyond kith and kin.

Come From Away celebrates this value by bearing witness to the selflessness of ordinary men and women, who rather than resenting the encroachment on their provincial peace embraced their role as global citizens with majestic humility. This generosity suffuses the musical and perhaps accounts for its enduring commercial appeal.

I appreciated this unpretentious show when I first encountered it in its La Jolla Playhouse premiere in 2015 but never expected that the musical would have such remarkable staying power. I underestimated the hunger for uplifting stories.

Come From Away has been criticized for promulgating a feel-good 9/11 narrative that only perfunctorily considers some of the more troubling dimensions of this historical turning point. Racial profiling and religious discrimination are given short shrift. And while the company of the show isnt homogeneous, the musical leaves out perspectives that might find more to discuss than a surge of good Samaritanism in the wake of an attack that led to the buildup of the modern security state and two decades of war.

Filmed at the Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre in New York in May with an audience that included 9/11 survivors and frontline workers, this presentation of Come From Away preserves the folksy charm of a musical that would have likely fallen flat in a dramatic adaptation. The screen version is less cinematically kinetic than the Hamilton movie that came out last year on Disney+, but the theatrical envelope of the production is artfully maintained.

Youre never for a minute unaware that youre watching a Broadway show. This is essential for a work in which the performers switch roles (Gander residents becoming passengers in the blink of a lighting cue), the scenery is minimalist and in constant motion, and there are no stars (though Jenn Colella earned a Tony nomination for her performance as a pioneering female pilot dedicated to keeping everyone on her flight safe).

Ashley accentuates in his film what is most luminous in his staging. That includes the magnificent lighting design of Howell Binkley, who died last year. The hues of the production create a theatrical world unto itself, allowing the frolicsome choreography of Kelly Devine to move with unflashy freedom.

Best of all, the veteran cast members of Come From Away" look convincingly like the ordinary characters theyre playing. The heroes of 9/11 werent those swanning in the spotlight but regular folks answering the call of compassionate duty.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sep. 9The Cullman City and Cullman County School Systems both approved additional days of paid leave for staff members who are out of school for COVID-19 related reasons.

The Cullman City School System will continue participating in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act employee leave program, giving full-time staff members additional days of paid sick leave if the days are related to COVID-19.

The Cullman City School Board approved the system's participation in the program during a special called meeting Thursday morning, and will be covering a maximum of 10 days of leave to staff members paid at their daily rate. The approval was retroactive to Aug. 5 and will expire on Sept. 30.

The FFCRA originally required employers to provide two weeks of paid leave due to COVID-19, and was slated to end on Dec. 31, 2020, but was then extended and made optional for employers through March of 2021. The American Rescue Plan Act that was passed earlier this year extended the optional paid leave and allows for employers to opt in to the program through the end of September.

Staff members eligible for the additional paid leave include those who are unable to work because they are quarantined, experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and waiting for a test result, have tested positive for the virus, caring for a family member who has the virus or are getting their vaccine or recovering from the vaccine.

Cullman City Schools Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff said the system has had around 50 employees miss time because of the virus so far this year, and he thanked the board for opting in to the FFCRA extended leave and for approving a change in the system's personal day policy during last month's meeting.

The state provides two personal days to every teacher and the city system provides a third, along with a fourth and fifth, but teachers are typically responsible for paying the $75 substitute cost for those fourth and fifth personal days.

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After the change was approved during last month's meeting, the system will cover the substitute cost for the rest of this school year for teachers' fourth and fifth personal days if a teacher needs to take them.

"On behalf of the employees, I want to thank the board for taking that into consideration and supporting them," Kallhoff said.

The Cullman County School System also approved additional paid leave for staff members during its meeting Thursday afternoon.

Cullman County Schools Superintendent Shane Barnette said the system will be using federal ESSER funds, provided through the Coronavirus Aid Relief, and Economic Security Act to provide up to 10 additional days of paid leave through December.

He said the approval was retroactive to the beginning of the school year, and full-time staff members could qualify for the additional paid leave days if they are sent home due to having the virus, being quarantined from close contact or other COVID-19 related reasons.

"We just felt like it was the right thing to do," he said.
Facebook's Ray-Ban Stories smart glasses, starting at $299. Ray-Ban

Facebook launched its first line of Ray-Ban smart glasses priced at $299.

Available in 20 styles, they can take photos and videos, play music, and place phone calls.

See what they look like, what they can do, and how much they cost.

See more stories on Insider's business page.

Facebook launched its "Ray-Ban Stories" smart glasses on Thursday, with 20 different style combinations starting at $299.

The glasses have a miniature camera that can take photos and videos and send them directly to your phone. With small built-in speakers, they can also play music or take phone calls.

The new product is being marketed by Facebook as a new way to "share your adventures" so users can "stay present with friends, family, and the world around you."

The social media giant is the latest tech company to take on smart glasses, a nascent market with a rocky past. In 2014, Google released "Google Glass" only to quickly discontinue the wearable tech after considerable criticism.

Two years later, Snap tried its hand at camera glasses with "Spectacles." Despite early interest, the social media company eventually wrote off $40 million in unsold products.

Facebook's Ray-Ban "Stories" smart glasses Facebook

Facebook's "Stories," while capitalizing on Ray-Bans classic wayfarer design, have already brought up questions of privacy concerns.

Buzzfeed's Katie Notopoulos reported that she experimented with using black tape to cover her smart glasses' white camera light, which goes on when the glasses start to record. Alex Himel, VP of AR at Facebook Reality Labs, told her that the camera light was added specifically after the company consulted with privacy groups, and that tampering with the glasses was a violation of the product's terms of service.

Facebook says on its website that the glasses were "designed with privacy in mind." However, as The New York Times' Ryan Mac pointed out, one of the company's "independent" privacy experts works for the Future of Privacy Forum, an organization funded by Facebook itself.

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The social media network created an entire micro-site dedicated to the glasses' privacy guidelines.

Ray-Ban Stories pairs with the new Facebook View app. Facebook

Facebook has shown progress in growing its product base over time, starting with its low-selling Oculus Quest and Oculus Go headsets. The virtual reality devices eventually paved the way for the Oculus Quest, which Mark Zuckerberg has said is now outperforming expectations.

The smart glasses are now available online and in select retail stores in the US, Australia, Canada, Ireland, Italy and the UK.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Semina Halliwell took her own life after allegedly being raped and bullied. (Reach)

A mother has been left devastated after the grave of her 12-year-old daughter was desecrated by vandals.

Semina Halliwell, of Southport, Merseyside, died on 12 June after spending four nights in hospital.

It was reported in March that a 12-year-old was raped at an address in Southport on 25 February and Semina was bullied online and in person about her ordeal during the investigation, leading her to take her own life.

In July, Seminas mum, Rachel Halliwell, said she feared her daughters "bullies" would gatecrash her funeral.

This week a family friend found Semina's grave had been "completely desecrated".

Ms Halliwell told the Liverpool Echo: "It was covered in bricks and rocks and there was dog mess all over it. It was clearly done on purpose.

"Heartless disgusting vile people. There are no words to describe these evil people that could do this to a 12-year-old girl's grave."

Semina Halliwell died after spending four nights in hospital. (Reach)

The grave has since been cleaned by family and friends.

However, a new screenshot on social media reportedly shows someone offering money to anyone who would "trash" Semina's grave  and film it.

Ms Halliwell has previously spoke of how her daughter had reported being raped and then bullied online about her horrific ordeal.

She said what happened to the Stanley High pupil had left her traumatised".

Ms Halliwell has since started a fundraiser in order to set up a charity to raise awareness of online grooming.

Merseyside Police has confirmed it is investigating a report of rape at an address in Southport on 25 February.

A spokesman said: "An investigation was launched and a juvenile voluntarily attended a police station for interview.

"Extensive enquiries are ongoing into this allegation and other matters relating to the same alleged victim, and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."

Semina Halliwell was allegedly raped and then bullied online about her horrific ordeal. (Reach)

Merseyside Police confirmed they are investigating the desecration of Semina's grave on Tuesday.

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Community Inspector Graham Fisher said: The community will no doubt share our shock and revulsion that a grave could be desecrated like this.

This is the final resting place of a beloved family member, and I can only imagine how upsetting it must have been for their loved ones to find that the grave had been treated in this way.

While thankfully no permanent damage has been caused, it will have caused lasting distress to the family.

Anyone with information is asked to message @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook.

Alternatively, you can call 101 quoting reference 21000494391 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For confidential emotional support, contact The Samaritans at any time by calling 116 123 or emailing jo@samaritans.org

Watch the latest videos from Yahoo News UK
WASHINGTON  Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., revealed Thursday that she was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and has received successful treatment for it.

In February, doctors at the Mayo Clinic discovered small white spots called calcifications during a routine mammogram, and a biopsy determined she had "stage 1A breast cancer, the senator wrote in a post on Medium.

Klobuchar, 61, said she "had a lumpectomy on the right breast which involved the removal of the cancer. After a course of radiation treatment in May and additional visits, doctors determined last month that "the treatment went well, she said.

Of course this has been scary at times, since cancer is the word all of us fear, but at this point my doctors believe that my chances of developing cancer again are no greater than the average person, Klobuchar said.

The senator said that like many others, she had delayed routine examinations because of the pandemic.

Studies have found that thousands of people who missed their mammogram due to the pandemic may be living with undetected breast cancer, she said, adding that she hopes her situation is a reminder for everyone of the value of routine health checkups, exams, and follow-through.

Health officials recommend mammograms every two years for women between the ages of 50 and 74. Those between the ages of 40 and 49 should discuss when and how frequently to get the exams, they say.
SINGAPORE (Reuters) - Singapore said on Thursday it will start easing movement restrictions for migrant workers living in dormitories from next week, more than a year after the curbs were imposed due to a surge in infections in their often cramped quarters.

The announcement by the manpower ministry came after more than 90% of the workers in dormitories were fully vaccinated, higher than Singapore's overall vaccination rate at 81%, which is one of the highest in the world.

Up to 500 vaccinated migrant workers will be allowed to visit pre-identified public locations for six hours each week. They are required to take a rapid COVID-19 antigen test before and three days after, the ministry said in a statement, adding it would evaluate the pilot scheme after a month.

"Together with the implementation of a multi-layered strategy to test, detect and contain the spread of COVID-19, we are now better prepared to handle any outbreaks at the dormitories," said the ministry.

Meanwhile, all other migrant workers will be allowed to visit recreation centres up to twice a week, and organised excursions by non-governmental organisations for vaccinated migrant workers to local attractions will resume.

Currently, migrant workers are mostly confined to their living quarters, other than for work, nearby recreation or essential errands.

The Southeast Asian financial hub had imposed strict movement curbs on tens of thousands of mainly South Asian low-wage labourers living in dormitories since April last year, after virus outbreaks occurred which eventually contributed to the bulk of Singapore's more than 60,000 COVID-19 cases.

The government said at the time the action was needed to prevent broader transmission and that it had taken measures to reduce worker interaction in the dormitories and ensure they received a salary, meals and medical support.

But the quarantining of the dormitories was criticised by some rights groups, which warned last year https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-singapore-migrants-idUSKBN21O138 the action may be discriminatory and risked exposing healthy individuals to a higher chance of infection.

Singapore has been reporting more than 100 infections daily over the past two weeks as it removes most restrictions as part of a phased reopening, but the majority of cases have been in the wider community, rather than in the worker dormitories.

(Reporting by Chen Lin in Singapore; Editing by Ed Davies)
JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa set a Nov. 1 date on Tuesday for municipal elections, after a court last week rejected a request to delay them until early next year to allow more time for COVID-19 vaccinations.

The new date, a delay of just four days, was the latest permitted by the court. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) had sought a delay of several months, saying it would be hard to organise a fair vote with the pandemic raging.

Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, minister of cooperative governance and traditional affairs, told a virtual briefing that the new date had been chosen in coordination with the IEC to allow the maximum possible time to prepare.

It would be officially proclaimed later in September following a voter registration weekend to be held by the IEC, which the court authorised to boost voter rolls.

Following the court's judgement, the commission also re-opened the registration process for candidates - a boost for the governing African National Congress (ANC) which had failed to register candidates on time in dozens of municipalities.

In the last municipal vote in 2016 the ANC suffered its worst result since the end of apartheid, losing cities such as Johannesburg to opposition parties.

The ANC's main rival, the Democratic Alliance, has filed a court challenge to the IEC's decision to re-open candidate registrations. Dlamini-Zuma, who is due to submit an affidavit to the court on the issue, declined to comment on it.

(Reporting by Emma Rumney; Editing by Peter Graff)
A breakthrough Qatar Airways flight departed Kabuls international airport with fewer U.S.-bound passengers than American officials at first hoped, a State Department official acknowledged

We invited more than 30 American citizens and LPRs [lawful permanent residents] to be on this flight, State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. Not all of them ultimately chose to depart Afghanistan today.

URGENT PLEAS: DEMOCRATS PRESS BIDEN ADMINISTRATION TO ANSWER LOGISTICAL QUESTIONS FOR AFGHANS LEFT BEHIND

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized that such Americans and green cardholders in Afghanistan have a right to change their mind and still receive State Department help in the future. Yet, the initial refusal underscores the difficulty of securing the evacuation of all Americans and the opportunity their presence affords the regnant Taliban regime, according to Republican lawmakers wary of concessions to the militants.

The Biden Administration must continue to force pressure on the Taliban to allow the safe passage of Americans, lawful permanent residents, and their families to leave Afghanistan, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham and Florida Republican Rep. Mike Waltz said earlier Thursday in a joint statement. Any agreement to allow safe passage should not be paired with the promises of U.S aid, dropping of terrorists from US or other sanctions lists, or the release of frozen financial assets.

The lawmakers assessed "that the Taliban are seeking to hold family members of American visa holders hostage to gain leverage over the United States." Price, for his part, acknowledged that family ties bound some of the people invited to leave the country Thursday.

"Some wanted more time to consider it," he said. "Others wanted to remain with extended family, at least for the time being. Others cited medical issues, among other reasons that we heard."

Blinken assessed, after the evacuation operation drew to a close at the end of August, that under 200 and likely closer to 100 Americans in Afghanistan wanted to leave the country. State Department officials assessed that another group of roughly 280 individuals who have self-identified as Americans in Afghanistan had not chosen to leave, but that number is in flux as living conditions in Afghanistan deteriorate and the Talibans government takes shape.

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We will continue to offer these American citizens going forward, indefinitely, the opportunity to depart Afghanistan, if they so choose, Price said. This opportunity doesn't expire.

Taliban officials are keeping a strict watch on who departs the country, in part, out of a desire to avoid losing the people who have the skills and training needed to run various institutions that were established over the two decades following the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan.

Weve heard in some of our engagements with the Taliban their concern about a so-called brain drain and people with knowledge and expertise leaving the country, Blinken said Wednesday. And one of the things that we shared with them was, the best way to get people to stay in Afghanistan is to allow them to leave Afghanistan as well as to uphold their basic rights. Whether they will take that to heart remains to be seen.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivans team credited the Taliban with having been businesslike and professional in the lead-up to the Qatar Airways flight. Price hesitated to forecast whether the militants would extend that courtesy to Afghan nationals who worked for the U.S. government but do not enjoy American citizenship  we're not ready to make sweeping categorical judgments, he said  but suggested that U.S. officials would try to assist the relatives of Americans who hesitate to leave their families in Afghanistan.

It is not only U.S. citizenship that may convey a reason to travel to the United States, to be granted entry into the United States, but there are other mechanisms through which individuals can travel, Price said. So we will explore all appropriate options, but those are discussions that well have to have on an individualized basis, given the circumstances of each family and of each U.S. citizen.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Foreign Policy, National Security, Afghanistan, State Department, Taliban, Qatar

Original Author: Joel Gehrke

Original Location: State Department: Some Americans declined to board flight out of Kabul due to family ties
TALLAHASSEE  Hours after a Leon County circuit judge allowed school districts to continue student mask requirements, Gov. Ron DeSantis administration Wednesday night filed an emergency motion asking an appeals court to reinstate a stay.

The 41-page motion seeks to put on hold a Sept. 2 ruling by Circuit Judge John Cooper that said DeSantis overstepped his constitutional authority in an executive order aimed at preventing districts from requiring students to wear masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cooper on Wednesday went further by lifting an automatic stay that had been triggered when the DeSantis administration appealed the Sept. 2 ruling to the 1st District Court of Appeal. The motion filed Wednesday night requested that the Tallahassee-based appeals court reimpose the stay while the underlying battle about the Sept. 2 ruling moves forward.

The appeals court gave a group of parents who filed the lawsuit until 8 p.m. Thursday to file a response to the motion about reinstating the stay.

In the motion, filed shortly before 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, attorneys for DeSantis, Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran, the Florida Department of Education and the State Board of Education argued that they will ultimately prevail in the lawsuit.

The motion contends, in part, that Coopers ruling violated constitutional separation of powers and delved into policy and political issues about whether schools should be allowed to require masks.

More: Florida schools can mandate masks after judge blocks DeSantis ban

More: Florida Gov. DeSantis to school officials: Enforce mask mandate, get your salaries withheld

The adequate level of safety in schools and other public settings is a political question reserved entirely for elected representatives who are publicly accountable, the motion said. Therefore, in finding irreparable harm (from a stay of his ruling), the trial court should not have substituted its own health policy preferences or risk assessments for those of the governor or, more importantly, the state health officer and surgeon general.

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During a hearing Wednesday morning in which Cooper vacated the automatic stay, the judge sought to dispel such arguments about his ruling. He asserted he made decisions in the mask lawsuit and other cases based on his interpretation of laws and listed times in which he has ruled in favor of governors.

If you look at my record, its not somebody who runs all over the place, ruling against the governor. What it is, I think, is a record of somebody who tries to figure out what the law is and rule according to the law. Because thats my job. Im not a policymaker, Cooper said.

A group of parents filed the lawsuit Aug. 6 amid a fierce debate across the state about whether students should be required to wear masks as the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus has caused a surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

Gov. Ron DeSantis exits a press conference at the Florida Department of Health in Fort Myers on Wednesday, September 1, 2021. He spoke about the benefits of the monoclonal antibody treatment. Several of his guests gave testimonials on the success of the treatment.

After DeSantis issued the July 30 executive order, the state Department of Health issued a rule that said parents should have the right to opt out of student mask requirements. The order and the rule are in line with DeSantis argument that parents should have a choice about children wearing masks.

Some school districts, however, have bucked the order and rule, only allowing students to forgo masks if their parents present documented medical reasons. Corcoran has pursued financial penalties against districts that have approved such policies.

More: COVID-19 hospitalization rates up as delta variant continues to spread

In siding with the parents, Cooper in the Sept. 2 ruling said DeSantis overstepped his authority, He also cited a new state law known as the Parents Bill of Rights, which deals with parents right to control health and educational decisions for their children. Cooper said Corcoran and the Department of Education improperly imposed financial penalties on districts that enact mask mandates without giving the districts due process.

The law of Florida does not permit the defendants to punish school boards, its members, or officials for adopting face mask mandates with no parental opt-outs if the schools boards have been denied their due process rights under the Parents Bill of Rights to show that this policy is reasonable and meets the requirements of the statute, Cooper wrote.

Exterior of 1DCA courthouse in Tallahassee

But in the motion filed Wednesday night, the states lawyers pushed back against the judges conclusions involving the Parents Bill of Rights.

According to its plain terms, the Parents Bill of Rights limits governmental authority and protects the inherent rights of parents, the motion said. Thus, the governor could not possibly have violated the Parents Bill of Rights by protecting parents rights. Most assuredly, the Parents Bill of Rights does not grant any authority to local school districts that did not previously exist.

The states request for the appeals court to reimpose the stay had been expected after Coopers decision earlier Wednesday on vacating the automatic stay. During the Wednesday hearing, attorneys for the parents pointed to a need to allow school districts to require masks while the legal battle continues.

Allowing for a stay for days, for weeks or months during the appellate process, will mean more sick and dead children in Florida schools, said Charles Gallagher, an attorney representing the parents. Vacating the stay will permit (school) boards to mandate masks as a public health measure and save lives.

News Service staff writer Ryan Dailey contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida quickly files emergency motion over halt to DeSantis' mask ban
The Supreme Court granted a stay of execution on Wednesday night for a Texas inmate who wants his preacher physically by his side praying for him at the time of his lethal injection.

Why it matters, via the Washington Post: "The request by John Henry Ramirez, 37, is the latest conflict over when a death row inmates spiritual requests conflict with the security and decorum prison officials say is needed during an execution."

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The order marks the third time in the past two years that the Supreme Court has halted an execution in Texas execution "over the state prison system's rules on how religious advisers can attend to condemned prisoners as they die," the Texas Tribune notes.

The big picture Ramirez was convicted of the 2008 murder and robbery of Pablo Castro, a 46-year-old convenience store clerk in Corpus Christi.

Prison officials rejected his request to have his pastor by his side, praying aloud and touching him when he's executed. His lawyer argues that this is a violation of his First Amendment rights to practice his religion.

The Supreme Court issued the order nearly three hours before Ramirez was due to die.

What's next: The court directed its clerk in its brief order to establish a schedule that will allow the case to be argued this October or November.

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Ten people died in a fire Wednesday evening at a hospital treating coronavirus patients in North Macedonia, authorities said.

The fire broke out following an explosion in a Covid-19 clinic in Tetovo in the northwest of the Balkan country, said Prime Minister Zoran Zaev, who immediately headed to the town.

"A huge tragedy has occurred in the Tetovo Covid-19 centre," Zaev said on Twitter. "An explosion caused a fire. The fire was extinguished but many lives were lost."

At least 10 people died in the disaster, Health Minister Venko Filipce said.

"At the moment, 10 people are confirmed to have died, but that number could rise," he said on Twitter, expressing his "profound condolences" to the victims' families.

The fire occurred as the former Yugoslav republic celebrated the 30th anniversary of its independence, with festivities in the capital Skopje, including a military parade.

Investigators have gone to the site to try to determine the cause of the disaster.

Fire services were alerted to the blaze at around 1900 GMT, and it took about 45 minutes to extinguish.

The modular Covid unit had only been built last year at the hospital to look after coronavirus patients in Tetovo, a town of around 50,000 people.

"The fire was huge because the hospital is modular, there was plastic," Tetovo deputy fire chief Saso Trajcevski told local television.

"We took out victims while we put out the flames."

Several injured people were transported to hospitals in the capital.

"The fight for life is still going on and all services are doing everything they can to save people," Zaev said, expressing "deep condolences to the families and of the deceased".

"I wish the injured a quick recovery".

North Macedonia has a population of around two million and its healthcare services are run down.

It has reported a rise in coronavirus infections recently, with the daily death toll reaching around 30. The country has recorded more than 6,100 fatalities in total since the start of the pandemic.

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Covid-19 hospitals in other countries have been hit by explosions followed by fires.

In Iraq, dozens of people were killed in fires that occurred after oxygen cylinders exploded in April and July.

str-ev/spm/mtp/jah
Your evening briefing from The Telegraph

Evening briefing: Today's essential headlines

The big story: NHS backlog hits record amid tax rise

The tax rise to pay for clearing the NHS backlog and funding social care has been approved but the Government will be under no illusions about the difficulties lying ahead - and that is without taking into account mounting headaches on migration and Brexit (more on those in a moment).

New figures from NHS England show the number of people waiting to start hospital treatment has reached a new record high, as the chairman of NHS England warned the private sector should be enlisted to help cut the backlog.

This comes after the Telegraph revealed that the NHS is hiring an army of 42 new executives on salaries of up to 270,000 each.

A minister has said today that health bosses should not receive salaries at an "unacceptable level".

Helen Whately, the care minister, noted they were on "significantly more than I earn". Read on for details.

Ministers were already facing questions about whether the NHS would swallow up the rise in National Insurance aimed at reforming social care.

Now the UK Home Care Association has added more concerns, warning around a fifth of home care staff could leave if Covid-19 vaccines become mandatory for remaining staff.

The Government has launched a six-week consultation on making vaccination a condition of deployment for frontline workers in health and more social care settings.

It also emerged that tens of thousands of elderly people could still be forced to sell their homes to pay for care due to major gaps in the Government's plan to tackle the crisis.

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Experts have also warned that multi-generational households have been left behind under the social care reforms.

France attacks migrant plan

Also in the Prime Minister's in-tray is the migrant crisis, which has seen more than 14,000 people reach the UK already this year, compared with 8,400 for the whole of 2020.

France has accused Priti Patel of "financial blackmail" and "posturing" amid a backlash over her "unworkable" plans to push back migrants mid-Channel.

Gerald Darmanin, France's interior minister, tweeted that the French government would not accept "any practice contrary to maritime law, nor any financial blackmail" in a reference to the Home Secretary's threat to pull the plug on a 54 million payment to France to combat migrants.

Yet the British governments announcement that it will push back migrant boats trying to cross the Channel has striking parallels with tactics used by both Greece and Italy.

Nick Squires analyses how the UK is only following EU's lead.

DUP cuts ties with Ireland

As if that was not enough for the Government to contend with in the coming days, then comes todays bombshell from the DUP.

Its leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said the party will stop co-operating with the Irish Government and has threatened to collapse the Stormont Assembly "in weeks" unless Boris Johnson overhauls the Northern Ireland Protocol.

In a major intervention, Sir Jeffrey announced that his ministers "will immediately withdraw" from north-south meetings with Dublin because the protocol has undermined the province's link with the rest of the UK.

The DUP leader has also given Lord Frost and his counterpart Maros Sefcovic a matter of weeks to fundamentally renegotiate the post-Brexit agreement, which requires Northern Ireland to continue following EU rules.

The move is likely to prove highly incendiary with Sinn Fein.

Comment and analysis

Around the world: Taliban flog Afghan journalists

An Afghan journalist has described "looking death in the face" as he was brutally beaten by the Taliban for three hours with cables and pipes. Twenty years since the Taliban's hardline regime was ousted from Kabul, the regime is moving to demolish any opposition to their rule - despite promises of a more inclusive society. Severe welts were inflicted on the backs of numerous Afghan journalists after they covered protests in the country's capital. These distressing images and video show their injuries.

Thursday big-read

The ultimate James Bond ranking

The ultimate James Bond ranking

What makes a great 007 movie? Ahead of the release of No Time To Die, our experts rate the best for villains, gadgets, cars and more

See the full rankings

Sport briefing: Raducanu's semi-final - fifth Test doubt

Emma Raducanu takes on Greece's Maria Sakkari in the US Open semi-final at about 1.15am tonight. Here is how to follow the match, while Thom Gibbs sets out why the 18-year-olds arrival has been the most stunning teenage breakthrough since Wayne Rooney. In football, the bad blood between England and Poland following their stormy World Cup qualifier has continued with Zbigniew Boniek accusing Gareth Southgate's side of "hypocrisy" in taking the knee. With the Premier League restarting this weekend, Sam Dean analyses the evolution of Cristiano Ronaldo. Meanwhile, England's fifth Test against India is in doubt after a Covid outbreak among the touring party spread.

Editor's choice

Business briefing: Labour shortage boosts salaries

Salaries for new recruits have surged at the fastest rate in nearly a quarter of a century as companies battle against a shortage of labour. The amount of hiring increased again in August as businesses tried to take advantage of the recovery, yet firms were forced to cough up to attract staff. This graph shows the fresh high in starting salary inflation.

Tonight starts now

Mixing It Up: Painting Today, review | One of the mysteries of our digital age is why artists persist with the archaic custom of applying pigment to canvas using a brush. Perhaps it makes sense that the timeworn medium of painting thrived during lockdown, but, in fact, long before Covid, a renaissance in figurative painting was already a remarkable trend in contemporary art. This exhibition at the Hayward Gallery documents this phenomenon. Read why it is worth a visit.

Three things for you

And finally... for this evening's downtime

Spielberg, Bruce the shark, my dad and me | The son of 'Jaws' star Robert Shaw is playing his father in a killer show about Steven Spielberg's famous blockbuster. He talks to Tim Robey about how the film's calamitous shoot inspired his play, which begins today.
Attempting to intercept migrant boats heading for Britain once they leave the French coast would put lives at risk, a top French coast guard official told AFP, as tensions rise between London and Paris.

Philippe Dutrieux, who heads coastal security forces for the Channel, said there had been 15,400 attempted crossings up to August 31 this year, a rise of 50 percent from the whole of last year.

Asked whether the French coastguard could intercept boats heading for UK waters, he replied: "Given the amount of activity, our resources are almost entirely taken up by all the rescue missions.

"And if we don't do it (interventions), it's also because of the very serious risk associated with these over-loaded vessels, with women and children.

"Approaching a vessel to bar its way would mean running the risk of causing people to move on board, of a panicked movement, which would add further risk to a situation that is already extremely dangerous...

"What's most important is saving lives," he added.

French authorities rescued 11 different boats and 198 people between Sunday night and Wednesday this week, according to the latest figures.

The explosion in migrant sea crossings -- from a level of roughly 600 people in 2019 -- has caused tensions between France and Britain, which have already been at loggerheads over Brexit and fishing rights in recent years.

Some right-wing politicians and commentators in Britain have accused French authorities of doing too little to prevent migrant crossings despite investments from Britain in border security and facilities on the French coast.

British media reported Thursday that London was preparing to turn back boats from UK waters and could withhold millions of pounds in funding for France unless more is done to prevent crossings.

French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said France would not accept Britain violating international maritime law or attempting "financial blackmail".

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Dutrieux said that there was "very good cooperation on the ground" between the French and British coast guard.

Migrants began taking the sea route first in small dinghies and more recently in semi-rigid inflatables loaded with "20, 30, 40 people, sometimes more than 50", he added.

Since 2018, French authorities have confirmed 11 deaths and three people are missing.

"It's a miracle that there aren't more given how dangerous the area is and the risks people take when they leave," he said.

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Donald Trump appeared on Greg Gutfields late night comedy show, part of a wave of recent media appearances (Fox News)

Donald Trump returned to Fox News on Wednesday night to spew out a few familiar false claims.

Mr Trump had the fact-checkers working late as he joined Greg Gutfields 11pm show Gutfield! on Wednesday to attack President Joe Bidens handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

The former commander-in-chief claimed he would have brought US forces out slowly over a period of years, overlooking the fact that he had imposed a deadline of 1 May to withdraw all US forces from the country.

In the chaotic final days of his presidency, he even tried to bring out the troops before Joe Bidens inauguration in an off-the-books mission, according to Axios .

Ignoring those details, Mr Trump told the Fox host: We could have taken a year, two years, but to leave $85bn worth of equipment, for them to fly around in Apache helicopters, this is the greatest war machine outside of the submarine, this is the greatest war machine there is.

Mr Trump has made reference to leaving $85bn in Afghanistan in several recent interviews, leading the Washington Post to pen a comprehensive debunking of the claim.

It reported that Mr Trump had rounded out the figure was not invented out of whole cloth.

But it reflects all the money spent to train, equip and house the Afghan military and police  so weapons are just a part of that. At this point, no one really knows the value of the equipment that was seized by the Taliban.

Donald Trump appeared on Greg Gutfields late night comedy show, part of a wave of recent media appearances (Fox News)

After Mr Trumps comments, Mr Gutfield joked over canned laughter that while the Taliban have Apache helicopters, he cant even get a gun in New York.

If Id joined the Taliban I could have had a helicopter.

Mr Trump agreed: "We cant have guns, but the Taliban, they can have 27 each.

Mr Trump may have momentarily forgotten about the Second Amendment, which enshrines Americans rights to bear arms under the US Constitution.

Even in states with stricter gun ownership law such as New York, law-abiding citizens are not restricted from the right to buy, sell, keep or use guns.

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The NY Safe Act does prevent criminals and the dangerously mentally ill from buying weapons, and only bans the most dangerous assault weapons.

Mr Trump aired a few more of his favourite lines, including that he rebuilt the military, wiped out the biggest people, a reference to the 2019 killing of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, and was treated worse than any other President.

His aides have claimed that the 75-year-old is ramping up media appearances in preparation for another run at the presidency in 2024.

During the interview, Mr Gutfield also revealed that he had lost friends due to his support for Mr Trump.

Read More

What is the difference between the Taliban and Isis?

Why did US leave Afghanistan and how much did America spend?

The Taliban: Who are they, who are the leaders and what do they want?
By Tarek Amara and Angus McDowall

TUNIS (Reuters) -Tunisian President Kais Saied plans to suspend the constitution and may amend the political system via a referendum, one of his advisers told Reuters on Thursday in the first clear indication of his plans after moves his critics have called a coup.

More than six weeks after Saied seized governing powers, dismissed the prime minister and suspended parliament on July 25, he has still not appointed a new government or made any broader declaration of his long-term intentions.

"This system cannot continue ... changing the system means changing the constitution through a referendum, perhaps ... the referendum requires logistical preparation," said Walid Hajjem, an adviser to Saied.

He added that this was the president's plan, which was at the final stage and was expected to be formally unveiled soon, but he did not expand on what changes Saied was contemplating.

Saied's intervention has thrust Tunisia into a constitutional crisis, raising concerns over the future of the democratic system it adopted after the 2011 revolution that led to the Arab Spring.

Saied has been widely expected to move to a presidential system of government that would reduce the role of the parliament, something that has been frequently discussed during years of gridlock since the 2014 constitution was agreed.

He has defended his moves as necessary and said they were in line with the constitution, promised to respect Tunisians' rights and said he will not become a dictator.

However, arrests of parliament members after Saied lifted their immunity and numerous travel bans against prominent people have alarmed some rights advocates.

NEW GOVERNMENT

Both domestic and international forces have pushed for Saied to appoint a government and show how he means to exit the constitutional crisis caused by his intervention.

The head of Tunisia's human rights league was quoted in a Tunisian newspaper on Thursday as saying that Saied had informed him that a new government would be appointed this week.

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Tunisia faces grave economic problems and a looming threat to public finances, and had just started talks with the International Monetary Fund for a new loan programme when Saied ousted the prime minister.

Any further IMF talks could not take place until a new government was installed that could credibly discuss fiscal reforms wanted by foreign lenders.

Years of economic stagnation and declining public services, worsened by political paralysis, have soured many Tunisians on the form of democracy they adopted after the revolution, and Saied's intervention appeared to have widespread support.

This week ambassadors from the G7 group of rich democracies urged Saied to appoint a government and return Tunisia to a constitutional order in which an elected parliament played a significant role.

Tunisia's powerful labour union, the UGTT, has also urged him to appoint a government and start dialogue to change the political system. UGTT officials were not immediately available for comment.

Officials from the largest party in parliament, the moderate Islamist Ennahda, which has been the most vocal opponent of Saied's moves, were also not immediately available for comment.

(Reporting By Tarek Amara, writing by Angus McDowall; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama and Grant McCool)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden's plan to require COVID-19 vaccinations for all federal workers and vaccines or testing for employees of large companies drew protests on Thursday from congressional Republicans who accused him of overstepping his authority.

Under the plan, all employers with 100 or more workers would be required to ensure they either have been vaccinated or are tested weekly for the highly-contagious COVID-19. Healthcare workers also would be required to be vaccinated as would teachers.

The response to the COVID-19 pandemic has become a partisan issue in the United States, with many Republicans voicing objections to vaccines, masks and social distancing, with some promoting unproven cures on social media.

"President Biden continues to undermine confidence in safe and effective vaccines. He is using fear, control, and mandates," said Cathy McMorris Rodgers, who is the senior Republican on the House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee that oversees health policy.

The administration's announcement comes as the "Delta variant" of COVID-19 is sweeping the United States and hitting especially hard in states with either low vaccination rates or resistance to mask-wearing in public places.

There are an estimated 153,533 new infections on average each day in the United States, 61% of the peak during the pandemic that was reported on Jan. 7, according to statistics compiled by Reuters.

Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump who has been fined for refusing to wear a face mask on the floor of the House, tweeted on Thursday that she had introduced a bill that would "stop discrimination in the work place from vaccine mandates."

Republican Representative Dan Bishop, a member of the House Judiciary Committee, accused the administration of overreach.

"Things that are unconstitutional tend not to hold up in court," Bishop tweeted shortly after the White House announced the plan.

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The Republican Party has been divided over how best to respond to the coronavirus pandemic, with some of its core supporters shunning vaccines and masks as an intrusion on personal liberties.

A leading Republican, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has been urging Americans to get vaccinated. In speeches in Washington and his home state of Kentucky he has recounted his childhood battle with polio, a disease that has nearly been eradicated worldwide with the help of vaccinations.

(Reporting by Richard Cowan and Merdie Nzanga; Editing by Scott Malone and Alistair Bell)
(Reuters) - House of Representatives Democrats unveiled details on Thursday of a proposed $150 billion payment program aimed at wringing greenhouse gas emissions out of the electricity sector, a cornerstone of the Biden administration's plan to address climate change.

The system would reward utilities that increase their production of power from low-emissions sources like solar, wind and hydro, and penalize those that do not, according to a document released by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce outlining key provisions to be included in a $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill.

Democrats are using the budget bill as a vehicle for their most ambitious measures to fight climate change because it only requires a simple majority to pass, different from the Senate's rule requiring 60 votes for other types of legislation. The chamber is evenly split between the two parties, with Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris casting the tie-breaking vote.

Even so, the measure faces resistance from moderate Democrats like Senator Joe Manchin from the coal-producing state of West Virginia, who is concerned with some of the climate provisions in the bill and the $3.5 trillion price tag.

Under the so-called Clean Electricity Performance Program, which would run from 2023 to 2030, utilities would receive payments from the Energy Department if they increase clean energy supplies by 4% annually, according to the document.

The $150-per-megawatt-hour grant would apply to all clean power produced by an eligible utility above 1.5% of the previous year's clean electricity supply.

Electricity is considered clean if it generates no more than 0.1 metric ton of carbon dioxide equivalent per MWh, according to the document, a threshold that effectively rules out power generated from natural gas.

If a supplier fails to meet the 4% targeted increase, it will owe $40 per MWh for any shortfall.

The power sector is responsible for about a quarter of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, second only to transport, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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President Joe Biden has vowed to decarbonize the power sector by 2035, and the entire U.S. economy by 2050.

The committee also outlined proposals that would pour billions of dollars into accelerating the deployment of electric vehicles, modernizing the electric grid and investing in communities on the frontlines of climate change impact and air and water pollution.

For example, the bill would offer $13.5 billion to boost an electric vehicle charging network and $9 billion to assist states to modernize the electric transmission system.

(Reporting by Nichola Groom and Valerie Volcovici; Editing by Peter Cooney)
The UN nuclear watchdog on Thursday promised a "comprehensive" and "objective" review of Japan's controversial plan to release treated water from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

During its inspection, the International Atomic Energy Agency will consult experts including from China and South Korea, which have reacted angrily to the release plan.

More than a million tonnes of processed water has accumulated in tanks at the crippled plant since it went into meltdown following a tsunami in 2011, including liquid that was used to cool damaged reactors.

An extensive pumping and filtration system removes most radioactive elements, and Japan says the plan to dilute and release the water over several decades is safe.

The IAEA has endorsed the release, which it says is similar to the disposal of wastewater at nuclear plants elsewhere.

"The review includes several missions and technical visits in coming months and years," Lydie Evrard, the IAEA's deputy director general, said Thursday in Tokyo on a visit to kick off the inspection process.

Before sharing the results, the IAEA will ensure its review is "comprehensive" and "objective", she said in an online briefing after meeting officials in Fukushima and the capital.

The Japanese government's decision in April to go ahead with the release -- which could begin as soon as March 2023 -- sparked ire from neighbouring countries over environmental and safety concerns.

It also generated fierce opposition from local fishing communities, who fear it will undermine years of work to restore confidence in their seafood.

Debate over how to handle the water has dragged on for years, as space to store it at the site runs out.

The filtration process removes most radioactive elements from the water, but some remain, including tritium.

Experts say the element is only harmful to humans in large doses and with dilution the treated water poses no scientifically detectable risk.

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The IAEA will send future missions to review "the radiological characterisation" of the water, as well as how to release it and its impact on the environment and people, the Japanese industry ministry said.

Last month, plant operators unveiled plans to construct an undersea tunnel for the release of the 1.25 million tonnes of treated water, which also includes rain and groundwater that seeps in daily.

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As it marks its return to in-person classes, Hampton University, a prominent historically Black college known colloquially as Home by the Sea, is setting an example of how to navigate the coronavirus pandemic.

The school, which is located in Hampton, Va., has required that students be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, mandated masks in the classroom and taken efforts to curb the spread of the virus at large gatherings.

But despite these measures, the college is something of an island, smack in the middle of a raging COVID ocean. In recent weeks, the city of Hampton has seen a dramatic spike in cases of COVID-19, thanks to the spread of the Delta variant. In August alone, health officials reported 1,533 new cases there, in a city whose population is roughly 135,000.

One Hampton University freshman told Yahoo News that she was horrified when she left the campus bubble to venture out locally.

Going to the local Waffle House in Hampton, there was this woman who looked visibly sick  red eyes, pale skin, with no mask  serving us food. But in Hampton Universitys cafe, they wont even serve you if you dont have your mask on. The freshman also recalled that a cafe staff member had once pulled her aside and told her to Please, please take care of yourself, because cases are rising in the city.

While 98 percent of Hampton students have been fully inoculated against COVID-19, the percentage of the population is only 43 percent for the city where it resides.

Students moved back into the college on Aug. 20, setting foot on a campus that had effectively been shuttered for 17 months, thanks to the pandemic. Before dorm check-in, they were ushered to a designated COVID-19 testing site before being allowed to unpack their cars. Temperature checks were also required for entry into many campus buildings.

Clock tower at Hampton University in Hampton, Va. (Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group, via Getty Images)

As far as housing, some of us got to pick our own rooms, and we have singles, so were not as on top of each other, Ronicia Barnes, a freshman biology major, told Yahoo News. While she said that she wished the classes could be less crowded, she noted, Overall, they did better than other schools.

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For William Harvey, the schools president for the last 43 years, this fall marks his last opportunity to welcome students to the HBCU. Now that hes 80, he plans to retire in the spring, and hes relieved that Hampton has been able to return to in-person instruction before his departure.

Im so happy that theyre back. Im glad to see them, and I absolutely have missed them, Harvey, one of the longest-serving U.S. college presidents, told Yahoo News in August. We want people to be safe as we fight this pandemic ... and its not over.

Back in March, the college mandated that all students, faculty, and staff be vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend in-person classes.

The university requires vaccinations, like meningitis and varicella, etc., said Barbara Inman, Hampton Universitys vice president for administrative services, in a March letter to new students, So requiring the COVID-19 vaccination is in concert with prior procedures to keep students, faculty, staff, as well as the community safe.

While the university allows for vaccine exemptions in some cases, as of Sept. 2, 96 percent of the staff was fully vaccinated, along with 97 percent of the faculty. Thats quite a feat for an institution that serves a population that has so far trailed other groups in terms of COVID-19 vaccination.

There are going to be some people who push back, as they have, but thats OK. We have a process for them to push back, Harvey said, referring to his schools appeal process for medical and religious exemptions for opting out of the COVID vaccine. If legitimate, they can get an exemption. He added, however, that the exemption was not automatic or guaranteed.

Before the pandemic, he could be regularly seen walking on campus grounds, greeting students with a Hampton Hug, a congenial act of kindness on campus.

William R. Harvey, president of Hampton University, hugs a graduating student. (Courtesy of Hampton University)

I am a student-oriented president. Im out on the lawn. At some point well be able to operate without the masks, and you know, give the old Hampton hug. Thats what Hampton is famous for and thats what were going to get back to and thats the way we do things here.

But Harvey was also quick to institute a safety-first approach to the pandemic, opting to finish out the 2020 school year virtually, after the World Health Organizations official declaration of the global pandemic.

Now that the campus of about 3,000 people has returned to the institution, faculty and staff have to undergo once-a-month testing for the virus, as well as further testing as required. Everyone on campus is advised to contact the Health Center within 24 hours of a positive test result, and the school has a designated quarantine/isolation residence hall for those who have been exposed to anyone who has tested positive.

You can tell that they care about us, because even the RAs [resident assistants] are telling us not to go into each others dorm rooms, because they want to keep not only themselves safe, but others safe as well, a freshman said. Some professors have a hard time teaching with the masks on, so theyll ask us if they can pull down their masks for a bit. Were like, Yeah, but stay 6 feet away.

The Harvey administration has also softened the financial blow of COVID, wiping out debt owed to the university for the 2020 academic year.

We try to look out for everybody, Harvey said, and well continue to do that.

The funds to carry out that plan came from the American Rescue Plan Act, which will offer Hampton $27 million in new grants, in addition to the $10 million it had already received through federal pandemic relief.

It is our hope that these funds will assist our students in continuing their Hampton experience and enjoying a seamless transition back to campus, Harvey said in a statement on the new funding.

But a return to campus also carries risks, especially at a school surrounded by a community where vaccination rates are low and the virus continues to circulate widely.

Students have been locked in their house with their families for more than a year, the freshman said. Of course, when we get to campus, were going to want to go socialize and sometimes go off campus. And even though the administration encourages us not to, they cant control certain individuals who are seeking out a certain college experience.

As for those famous Hampton hugs, they may have to wait, but some sacrifices are worth it.

Were going to do everything we can to keep everybody as healthy and as safe as possible, Harvey said.

____

Read more from Yahoo News:
via YouTube/KRON 4

A volunteer crossing guard for a California middle school has been killeda split-second after he managed to push a group of kids out of the path of an oncoming SUV, according to local reports.

Ashley Dias, 45, worked for a biotechnology firm but gave back to the community where he grew up by volunteering at Stanley Middle School in Lafayette, the same Bay Area school he had once attended, his family said.

He was filling in for another crossing guard on Wednesday when things took a sudden turn for the tragic, the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

As the driver of an SUV barreled toward the crossing, a parent saw Dias rush to a group of students who were barely able to get out of the way and saw him push the student towards the sidewalk and just out of reach from the car, Ashleys mother, Gloria Dias, told the Chronicle.

I met one of the fathers in the hospital. And he said, Your son saved my daughters life. He said she stopped but he walked in front to stop the car and the car just knocked him over and dragged him underneath, she said.

He is a hero and put his life on the line to save a student. He should definitely be remembered, she recalled the parent saying in a message.

Other witnesses backed up that version of events.

He was getting pulled out by the paramedics and he was getting CPR, a sixth-grader identified as Stella Champion told ABC7 News. I think there was a kid injured, but the crossing guard saved the kid.

The driver, described by ABC 7 as the grandmother of a student, has been interviewed by police and is said to be cooperating with the investigation. Police have not yet identified the driver or provided any specifics on what led to the accident.

But what they have revealed about the aftermath paints a horrifying picture, with first responders desperately trying to save Dias life as children looked on.

One person was reported to be trapped under a vehicle. Lafayette police officers, who were assisted by citizens, were able to pull an unresponsive person out from under the vehicle. Officers administered CPR until relieved by fire department personnel. He was later transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased, the Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office said in a statement.

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A child also suffered minor injuries and was taken to a hospital as a precaution, police said.

While police have not yet named Dias as the victim, his family has come forward to identify him to local media.

He was doing his job as a crossing guard. He has done this many times, his father, Fabio Dias, told the Chronicle, noting that Ashley had even been wearing a bright orange vest to make himself impossible to miss by drivers.

And in spite of that, the car comes and hits him and kills him. And I lost my son, he was quoted saying.

It is unbelievable, just this morning we spoke to him, in the afternoon we spoke to him before he went at 2 oclock for the crossing, his father said.

While the circumstances of the fatal crash remain unclear, the drivers family has expressed their own horror at the tragic turn of events, according to ABC7 News.

The son of the driver was quoted telling the news outlet that the family is so incredibly sorry and devastated by this unthinkably horrible accident.

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The White House is reportedly asking Congress to provide a quick pathway to permanent residency in the United States for tens of thousands of Afghans who are ineligible for visas after being evacuated and brought to the U.S. by the Biden administration this summer.

As part of a $6.4 billion emergency funding request that President Joe Biden sent Congress earlier this week, the administration wants lawmakers to include language that would allow an unspecified number of Afghan citizens the ability to apply after one year for a green card, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday evening.

Green card holders may permanently reside in the country. All green card holders can apply to become U.S. citizens after a certain number of years.

As of this week, approximately 60,000 people have arrived in the U.S. from Afghanistan.

HOW BIDEN IS RESETTLING AFGHANS IN THE US

Although the Biden administration had planned to provide a Special Immigration Visa for Afghans who assisted the U.S. and its allies during the 20-year War on Terror, it was unable to approve most applications before withdrawing troops in August. Fewer than 800 of the 20,000 applicants were in the final stages of the application process as of August.

When Kabul was overtaken by the Taliban in August, Afghans rushed the airport in an attempt to get out of the country while U.S. troops were evacuating people who had helped the U.S. during the war. Despite Bidens statements that the administration would rescue those who were visa recipients, the administration airlifted an additional tens of thousands of people who have not been approved for visas and are not in the process of applying for them.

Biden administration officials have defended the move as rescuing vulnerable people, a term Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas used last week. However, it now sets the U.S. up to have to decide what to do with an unprecedented influx of people who arrived in the U.S. on military planes with no personal belongings or jobs.

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CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Because tens of thousands of the 124,000 total people airlifted were not approved as refugees or approved for visas prior to their arrival, they are ineligible for government benefits or assistance. In response, Congress is moving on an emergency funding bill, a continuing resolution, to fund Defense Department operations to hold the Afghans at military bases for a short period.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Afghanistan, War on Terror, Immigration, Congress

Original Author: Anna Giaritelli

Original Location: White House asks Congress to give Afghans permanent US residence after one year
As the first Theranos trial begins, there have never been fewer incentives to uncover or prosecute corporate fraud.

Why it matters: There was a brief crackdown on white-collar crime at the end of last year, as Republican prosecutors negotiated deals before a new administration was sworn in. Now, however, there's no such urgency.

Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.

The big picture: Hedge funds and other short sellers normally have a financial incentive to uncover fraud at companies. Nowadays, however, shorting is extremely dangerous even when the fundamentals are on your side.

Private companies, of course, can't be shorted at all. Given that most startups fail anyway, VCs also have little interest in worrying about fraud at their portfolio companies. If they do find it, they often have reputational reasons to want to cover it up rather than expose it.

Theranos was exposed by a journalist, John Carreyrou of the WSJ, and was exceptional in many ways  not only in the size and brazenness of the fraud, but also the sobering litany of real-world victims in the form of people who received dangerously erroneous lab reports. Anything smaller or less tragic might not have set Carreyrou on his multi-year Odyssey.

Context: That fraud is rampant is all but certain, given the exuberance of the markets in general and the crypto markets in particular. "During times of irrational exuberance," says Yale Law professor Jonathan Macey, "we see upticks in the success rate that people have in prying people from their money."

The bottom line: The current wealth effect  the optimism that people feel because they are richer than they've ever been  is magnified by an unknown quantum of fraud  what the great economist J.K. Galbraith called "the bezzle." Don't hold your breath waiting for it to be uncovered.

More from Axios: Sign up to get the latest market trends with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free
By Daniel Trotta and David Shepardson

(Reuters) - New York Governor Kathy Hochul on Wednesday signed into law a bill that sets a goal for all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks to be zero-emission models by 2035, joining the state of California in attempting to eliminate gasoline-powered vehicles.

The law directs setting regulations requiring higher numbers of zero-emission vehicles with a goal of "100% of in-state sales by 2035", and a similar target for medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles by 2045 if feasible.

The U.S. government is seeking to promote the sales of electric vehicles to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels and help meet global goals to slow human-caused climate change.

In August, President Joe Biden took a step toward his goal of slashing greenhouse gas emissions with an executive order https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/biden-set-target-50-evs-by-2030-industry-backs-goal-2021-08-05 aimed at making half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 electric, a goal made with backing from the biggest U.S. automakers.

But Biden has repeatedly refused to endorse proposals to phase out the sale of all new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035, despite pressure from some Democrats in Congress.

Last year, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order that set a goal of banning the sale of new gasoline-powered passenger vehicles https://www.reuters.com/article/autos-california-emissions/california-to-ban-sale-of-new-gasoline-powered-passenger-vehicles-in-2035-idUKL2N2GK1EF starting in 2035.

In April, New York, California and 10 other states asked Biden to set standards to ensure that all new passenger cars and light duty trucks are zero-emission by 2035.

New York City said on Wednesday that to meet its climate goals it would need 400,000 of the city's 2 million vehicle owners to switch to EVs by 2030. The city vows to install a network of 10,000 curbside charge points by 2030.

The state of New York said it was proposing regulations requiring an increasing percentage of all new medium- and large-trucks sold in New York to be zero-emissions beginning with the 2025 model year.

The legislation signed Wednesday also seeks to require all off-road vehicles be zero-emission models by 2035.

(Reporting by Daniel Trotta and David Shepardson; Editing by Himani Sarkar)
On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, William Wells was teaching world geography at Amherst County High School when he learned a plane had flown into one of the buildings of the World Trade Center.

Wells, who years later became the schools principal and now serves as Amherst County Public Schools assistant superintendent, said he recalled thinking at first it might have been accident involving a small aircraft. The grim reality hit that America was under attack a short time later during Wells planning period as he and other teachers watched the news coverage as the second plane flew into the World Trade Center and the towers fell.

It was an emotional toll, Wells said.

He recalled the somber mood in the school for the remainder of the day as students and staff monitored coverage and discussed what may happen next. Wells said educators told students they didnt have immediate answers but talked with students about concerns and fears while trying to carry on with school tasks as best they could.

You could just see it was weighing on everybody. They could tell it was wearing on me, Wells said. The emotions were raw that day as it happened.
As military and civilian workers crowded the hallways and made their way to the stairs, a lot of women were crying and choking on the smoke, he said. Some wanted to sit on the stairs but military personnel made sure everyone headed toward the exit.

Reed and others went to an area adjacent to where the plane flew into the building. He was highly familiar with the heliport because he flew in there frequently.

It was an absolutely beautiful, beautiful fall day. The sun was shining, the sky was as blue as it could be, he said of shifting his eyes toward the devastation. You could see that black smoke. I was in the military for 32 years. That was the first time in my whole career I just felt helpless. The building is burning and the heliport and ambulances pulling people out. It was like there was nothing you could do.

Reed said he and thousands of Pentagon workers spent hours in the mall area and were aware of another aircraft originally headed to Washington, which was crashed into a Pennsylvania field when some aboard fought the hijackers. His civilian clothes, house keys, wallet and other personal items were in the building but he was able to get back to his apartment where he saw the late Donald Rumsfeld, former secretary of defense, announce the Pentagon would be open the following morning.
While this beating of the war drum was too much even for us, the rhythm of the next decade often echoed this tune. A flood of books both serious and silly poured forth about the war on terror, the imminent arrival of a new cold war or world war, and the generational struggle with Islam and Islamists that would define our future and our childrens future.

Two decades later, it seems like the past is a foreign country, and not just for the 1 in 4 Americans who werent even alive on 9/11.

We always see yesterday through the prism of today. As historian R.G. Collingwood put it, Every new generation must rewrite history in its own way. For instance, after 9/11, the dates that defined the past shriveled. The Bolshevik Revolution of 1917 and the end of the Cold War in 1989 shrank, while 1932 (the founding of Saudi Arabia) and 1979 (the founding of revolutionary Iran) seemed larger in the rearview.
Gov. Ralph Northams posthumous pardons for seven young Black men in Martinsville who were executed in 1951 after being convicted of raping a white woman wont undo the terrible wrongs that occurred during Virginias shameful Jim Crow era. But they are a stark reminder that government can never be blindly trusted, and that eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.

Northam acknowledged that the pardons do not address the guilt or innocence of the Martinsville Seven. There was physical evidence that the rape victim, 32-year-old Ruby Stroud Floyd, had been sexually assaulted, and two of the men admitted having consensual sex with her, but rumors that she was having an affair with one of the defendants were never brought up in court.

At this point, what really happened will probably never be known beyond a reasonable doubt.

However, the pardons do address what appears to be a complete lack of due process and the fact that at the time, rape was a capital crime in Virginia  but the death penalty was only imposed if the perpetrator were Black.

The executed men received a racially-biased death sentence not similarly applied to white defendants, Northam told a group of their descendants.
Following a multi-year investment, Bank of America has launched the next generation of its global Virtual Account Management (VAM) solution to address the growing complexities that treasurers face today when managing global operations.

Business growth can make cash management unnecessarily complex and opaque as new bank accounts are regularly opened to support operations in different countries or subsidiaries, said Liba Saiovici, head of Global Receivables in Global Transaction Services at Bank of America. Whether companies are already operating worldwide or seeking to simplify their internal structure, our VAM platform can help them optimize their treasury operations.

New features of Bank of Americas enhanced VAM solution include:

A single global view . From a single dashboard, clients have visibility of virtual accounts across countries with the ability to set up structures in 30+ currencies.

. From a single dashboard, clients have visibility of virtual accounts across countries with the ability to set up structures in 30+ currencies. Flexibility . Accessed through the banks CashPro platform, clients can manage virtual account structures and transactions via the new self-service user interface or via file transmission.

. Accessed through the banks CashPro platform, clients can manage virtual account structures and transactions via the new self-service user interface or via file transmission. Digital account transition made easy. With VAM fully integrated into the banks CashPro and foreign exchange platforms, clients can now take advantage of our full suite of reporting and electronic payment and receipt types.

Since introducing VAM six years ago, weve acquired deep experience in understanding what our clients need most from virtual accounts, and weve built this enhanced solution to meet those needs, said Matthew Davies, co-head of Global Corporate GTS Sales and head of GTS EMEA. VAM has multiple use cases beyond its most well-known one, being receivables reconciliation. In our view, nearly every company could benefit from its powerful capabilities.

The enhanced solution is currently available in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Netherlands. Subsequent roll-outs will occur in other countries and regions throughout 2021 and beyond.

Bank of America is an award-winning provider of global transaction services. Most recently, the bank was named Outstanding Financial Innovator  2021 Global by Global Finance magazine.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the worlds leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 66 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,300 retail financial centers, approximately 17,000 ATMs , and award-winning digital banking with approximately 41 million active users, including approximately 32 million mobile users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and approximately 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, register for email news alerts.
MK Stalin offers financial aid for idol makers, after the ban on the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival

Tamil Nadu, Thu, 09 Sep 2021 NI Wire

After the Tamil Nadu Government recently banned all public celebrations of the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival, Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced on Tuesday, Rs 5000 aid for 3000 artists, who would be affected by the ban.



The ban of the public celebration of the festival affects the artisans who make the idols for the festival. Stalin, to help these artisans out, announced that financial assistance will be provided, as he responded to BJPs legislative party leader Nainar Nagendrans request to allow the celebration of the festival in the state.



The Chief Minister said that the government had already given Rs 5000 to around 12000 potters, to survive during the monsoon season. There are 3000 who make Ganesh Idol and Stalin said that the government, seeing that their livelihood is affected because of the administration decision to ban public celebration, has decided to provide Rs 5000 as financial assistance to these idol makers.



To maintain Covid-19 protocols, the citizens of Tamil Nadu have been asked to celebrate the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival at home. The State government has denied the permission of installing idols in public places, processions, and immersion of the idols in water bodies by organisations. However, individuals have been allowed to carry idols and immerse them in water. In Chennai specifically, people have not been allowed to immerse their idols at the beaches, especially along the Santhome and Napier Bridge stretch.



The CM said that the Union Home Ministry has advised state governments to take measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, like measures to control public gatherings till the 30th of September. Unfortunately, the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival falls on the 10th of September.



Stalin pointed to Keralas experience trying to justify the move, where after the government allowed people to gather during Onam and Bakrid festivals, there had been a surge in infections.



The Delhi and Karnataka government has also clamped down on public gatherings during Ganesh Chaturthi, by banning all public celebrations of the festival and also processions during the festival.



Mumbai where the festival is a huge celebration will also have to abide by Covid-19 protocols to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. The BMC has ordered fresh protocols, which limit the number of people in public pandals as well as restrict the number of people in processions.

-Supratik Mitra (08/09/21)
Because of his matinee idol looks and charisma, he was a natural for the big screen, but his personality  he admits to frequently pushing back against authority  meant that he was passed over for many roles. In fact, he wanted so badly to be in Full Metal Jacket (1987) that he made several audition tapes and sent them to Stanley Kubrick but to no avail. While working on The Island of Dr. Moreau, Kilmer enraged John Frankenheimer so much that the director vowed to never work with Kilmer again. He also admits to having a less than exceptional time in his Bat suit  he wasnt as much acting as being moved from one scene to the next  so he refused to continue in the franchise. From this, and many other encounters, he would develop a reputation for being difficult to work with.

The portrait of Kilmer that emerges, though, isnt as much a difficult person, as someone with high creative standards who wanted what he was doing to be at its best. He didnt just want to be a face on a teenagers wall or to be cashing checks. (If IMDB is to be believed, he turned down a LOT of jobs.) Most notably, he comes across as a compassionate, kind, generous  a genuinely good person. Just a few examples: After his father ran up huge debts, and ensnared Kilmer in his shady prospects, instead of taking legal action against his dad, he used all the money he had in the bank to pay off the debt. As a way to raise money for his passion project, Citizen Twain, which he wrote and would perform on stage, he sold most of the beloved New Mexico property he had acquired over the years. And to pay the bills, he attends various conventions, where he signs autographs and takes photos with fans. Even though many would see this as humiliating for an actor of his stature, he seems to enjoy meeting those who have given him his career and privilege.
Our Saviors Lutheran Church has expanded and reconfigured its food pantry to create more space for food storage and assembly of food packages.

The space devoted to the pantry is now one-third larger, according to Loren Knauss, volunteer at the pantry and co-founder of the Story Street Pantry.

With the approval of the church council, led by President Roger Carlon, a conference room was converted into a storage and assembly room, and a room across the hall was turned into a conference room, said Josh Weesner, director of the Our Saviors pantry and co-founder of Story Street Pantry. He does the ordering for both pantries.

The expansion of the space was done to streamline the work at Our Saviors Lutheran Food Pantry, but it also allows Our Saviors, which is a partner with Story Street Pantry, to become the distribution center for the Story Street Pantry mobile pantry services, Knauss said. The new Our Saviors food assembly room will allow volunteers (including some from Emanuel Lutheran Church) to assemble delivery orders for more than 100 households without leaving the room to restock, saving much-needed time. Before, we had to go to multiple places (to get food for orders), and I was actually assembling in the hall.
The girl is the daughter of Claudia Rowling and Curtis Stringer. Samuels is the sister of Rowling, who suffered a massive stroke 15 days after giving birth to Calyia, Samuels said. Rowling lost some speech and has some right-side paralysis from the stroke, said Samuels, who has medical power-of-attorney for her sister.

Because of the mothers health, relatives and friends pitched in to help the parents raise Calyia.

Calyias mom has been fighting since the birth just to be here with her, Samuels said. Calyia was a very joyful little girl. She was loved by a lot of people and she had a lot of support.

Calyia was an only child. She loved unicorns and enjoyed spending time outdoors riding her bike.

Samuels said the family has a message for the community: We just really need them to know that we want justice and we want anyone with information to come forward.

She was an innocent child, Samuels added.

East St. Louis police Chief Kendall Perry, who responded to the shooting scene along with other officers, said he is concerned about an escalation of violence in the wake of the shooting.
ROME (AP)  The world's top Christian leaders  Pope Francis, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the spiritual leader of Orthodox Christians  on Tuesday issued a joint appeal for delegates at the upcoming climate summit to "listen to the cry of the Earth" and make sacrifices to save the planet.

In their first-ever joint statement, the three Christian clerics said the coronavirus pandemic gave political leaders an unprecedented opportunity to rethink the global economy and make it more sustainable and socially just for the poor.

"We must decide what kind of world we want to leave to future generations," they said. But in the statement, they also noted that the threat is no longer far off.

"The extreme weather and natural disasters of recent months reveal afresh to us with great force and at great human cost that climate change is not only a future challenge, but an immediate and urgent matter of survival," said the statement from Francis, Archbishop Justin Welby of the Anglican Communion and the Istanbul-based Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I.

The statement sought to give a sense of urgency to the upcoming U.N. climate summit, which Francis at least is expected to attend in person. The conference, known as COP26, is scheduled for early November in Glasgow, Scotland.
To say the least, it is an eerily familiar feeling to witness our final exit from Afghanistan. At exactly one minute before midnight on Aug. 30, Army Major Gen. Christopher T. Donahue was the last man to board the last C-17 cargo plane that would lift him and the last group of troops up and away from our faraway home of the past 20 years.

Few can imagine what those last troops must have felt as they left behind Americans, at-risk Afghans and, especially, the memories of 13 fellow Marines, soldiers and Navy personnel who were killed by a terrorist bomb at the Kabul airport in the final days. The humiliation of defeat, the sense of loss, and, ultimately, the blood and treasure left behind, remind us of a not-distant past.

Baby boomers and older Americans remember too well our departure from Vietnam 46 years ago. They remember the war protests, the agonies both emotional and physical that continue to torment so many veterans of that war. My brother, a Marine who survived his 18th year in Vietnam, has attended the funerals of many of his comrades, several of whom died from Agent Orange-related cancers.
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A North Platte parks employee felt the strength and wrath of a whitetail deer at Cody Park on Wednesday morning.

Parks Supervisor Lyle Minshull said the employee had gone into the enclosure to feed the deer when it attacked him.

I got a call from dispatch to take care of the situation, Minshull said. It didnt come across to me as a distress thing.

Minshull said the initial caller believed a deer was having trouble giving birth, but when Minshull arrived at the park, he found a more serious situation.

I went over there and the deer had the park employee on the ground, Minshull said. He was controlling the deer, but the deer did get the employee a couple of times (with his antlers).

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Minshull entered the enclosure to help the employee and the two were able to hold the deer down until more help arrived.

The Police Department came over and gave us a very good hand, Minshull said. I appreciate what those guys do.

Minshull said when the velvet on deer antlers starts to fall off, it is rutting season, and he believes thats why the 3-year-old buck became aggressive.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  Some incoming Afghan refugees were greeted by two members of New Mexicos all-female U.S. House delegation, from opposite ends of the political spectrum, at Holloman Air Force Base.

Afghans evacuated in recent days by the American military are largely being processed at U.S. government facilities across the country, including Holloman outside Alamogordo and nearby Fort Bliss in westernmost Texas, before going to resettlement agencies that will determine their final destinations.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury of Albuquerque said Wednesday she felt fortunate to meet at Holloman with an Afghan interpreter who is seeking refuge in the U.S. with a wife and two children, as well as a support group for women seeking asylum in the U.S.

As these families transition into American life, there are different gender norms here in the U.S. Thatll be part of the journey as well, Stansbury said of the Tuesday tour of the air base.

Republican U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell recounted her contact with a plane load of about 150 evacuees from Afghanistan as they arrived at Holloman. She said the base is expecting to accommodate 5,000 refugees by Friday.
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)  The Hungarian government has offered to assist Poland in conducting border surveillance on its eastern border with Belarus in an effort to deter migrants from entering the country illegally, Hungary's president said Thursday.

A serious migration crisis has developed on the Polish-Belarusian border, and events in Afghanistan "are likely to put even greater migration pressure on Poland in the future, Hungarian President Janos Ader said at a joint press conference in Budapest with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda.

Hungary will offer its help in surveillance and maintaining a 370-kilometer (230-mile)-long fence which is currently under construction along the border, Ader said. The country will also share experiences with its own border barrier that it began erecting in 2015 during that year's influx of migrants into Europe.

Poland, a strong ally of Hungary's right-wing government, last week declared a state of emergency at a 3-kilometer (nearly 2-mile) strip of land along its border with Belarus amid increasing migration pressure.


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Photo: Steve Helber/POOL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

More than a century after the Battle of Appomattox Court House, Virginia witnessed another surrender by the Confederate general Robert E. Lee.

Crews assembled early Wednesday morning to remove a 12-ton statue of Lee from its pedestal in Richmond, Virginia, once the capital of the Confederacy. As cranes lifted the statue in the air, the crowd that gathered to watch cheered and bid the figure farewell, singing Hey, hey, hey, goodbye.

BREAKING: Robert E. Lee statue, erected in 1890, removed from its pedestal on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Virginia. pic.twitter.com/RGRZQXDA9n  NBC News (@NBCNews) September 8, 2021

The statue, which depicts Lee seated on a horse, was first installed in 1890 and stands about six stories tall on the citys Monument Avenue. The statue has been the subject of massive controversy as one of the countrys largest monuments to the Confederacy and the site of countless demonstrations for racial justice.

Governor Ralph Northam ordered the removal of the statue back in June 2020, not long after the murder of George Floyd, saying at the time, A pedestal is a place of honor. We put things on pedestals when we want people to look up.

The decision was held up for months by multiple legal challenges. However, Virginias Supreme Court ruled in favor of the statues removal last week, allowing the process to move forward.

The public monuments reflect the story we choose to tell about who we are as a people. It is time to display history as history, and use the public memorials to honor the full and inclusive truth of who we are today and in the future, Northam said in a statement following the removal.

Northam said the Lee statue will be put in secure storage at a state facility until a decision is made about its permanent relocation.

On Wednesday night, former President Donald Trump weighed in on the removal of the magnificent and very famous statue in a statement that appeared to suggest he was rooting for the Confederacy to have come out on top. He claims Lee chose the other side because of his great love of Virginia, and except for Gettysburg, would have won the war. Trump also described the rebel leader fighting to uphold slavery as a unifying force, adding that if the general whose surrender effectively ended the Civil War were to have led U.S. forces in Afghanistan, that disaster would have ended in a complete and total victory many years ago.

This post has been updated to include former President Trumps statement on the statues removal.
Passengers wait to board the Qatar Airways flight on Thursday. Photo: Wakil Kohsar/AFP via Getty Images

Two hundred and eleven dual nationals, including roughly 30 Americans, were set to depart Kabul for Qatar on Thursday on the first commercial flight out of Afghanistan since the U.S. officially withdrew from the country. The Taliban said that people with the proper papers, which included passports from the U.S. and other countries, could board the plane, a Qatar Airways Boeing 777. Qatar has been serving as a way station between Afghanistan and many evacuees final destinations.

Thursday marked the reopening of Hamid Karzai International Airport after American forces staged an enormous evacuation of Americans and Afghans marked by chaos and a deadly suicide bombing, up until August 31, when U.S. forces departed. The Taliban has been working with the Qatari government to restore operations.

A small number of American citizens  recent estimates have ranged from 100 to 200  remain within the country. A much larger contingent of Afghans who helped U.S. forces, and may qualify for special American visas, still remain. Their fate is unclear: The Taliban has at times indicated that people with the proper documentation could leave, but has thus far blocked a charter flight out of Mazar-i-Sharif in the countrys north, claiming some passengers dont have the correct papers.

As the country fell to the Taliban last month, the U.S. ferried an estimated 123,000 civilians out of the country, including 6,000 Americans.
An Auburn man is facing six counts of possession of child pornography after his arrest Sunday by officers with the Auburn Police Division, according to a release from APD.

Trenton Chase Brand, 30, was previously charged with five counts of possession of child pornography after a joint investigation by Auburn police and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agencys Internet Crimes Against Children task force led to his arrest on Nov. 20, 2020.

In early November 2020, information was received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Organization that a resident of Auburn was possibly in possession of images of child pornography, Auburn police said. Further investigation resulted in Brand being developed as a suspect. The pornographic images were confirmed to be those of juveniles not from the Auburn area.

Following his initial arrest in 2020, Brand was held at the Lee County Jail on a $20,000 bond but made bail and was released the same day, according to court records.

According to an incident report filed by APD, officers responded to a suspicious incident at the Auburn Lodge hotel on Sunday and made contact with Thomas Fellows of Westminster, Colo., who told officers he was there working on behalf of a nonprofit group, Colorado Ped Patrol, and had posed online as a 14-year-old girl.
Detectives with the Opelika Police Department have determined that the bomb threat made at Opelika High School Wednesday came from a 13-year-old from Florida, police said Thursday.

Police said they have concluded that the juvenile had no connection to Opelika, and that the threat was not credible. Police are working with the Lee County District Attorneys Office and law enforcement authorities in Florida to determine the next steps in the investigation, police said.

After the bomb threat was called into OHS at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, canines from the Opelika Police Department, Auburn Police Division and the Lee county Sheriffs Office did a thorough sweep of the building and located no explosive devices, according to police.

The OPD is encouraging residents not to spread unsubstantiated rumors on social media which could interfere with an investigation, police said.
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Local miners attend Battle of Blair Mountain centennial event in W.Va.

Courtesy of Kipp Dawson Courtesy of Kipp Dawson Kipp Dawson, who worked as a coal miner for Bethlehem Mines in Cokeburg, poses with UMWA President Cecil Roberts after a three-day, 38-mile march in southern West Virginia this past weekend to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Blair Mountain. Courtesy of Lou Martin Courtesy of Lou Martin UMWA President Cecil Roberts stands on the bed of a pickup truck to speak during the 38-mile march to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Blair Mountain in Logan County, W.Va.

After enduring a three-day march over 38 miles of mountainous terrain in southern West Virginia, Kipp Dawson felt empowered as she and countless other union miners traced the path more than 13,000 miners took a century ago during the Battle of Blair Mountain.

Dawson, 76, who worked in Bethlehem Mines Co.s Mine 60 in Cokeburg from 1979 to 1992, followed United Mine Workers President Cecil Roberts during the Labor Day weekend event commemorating the centennial anniversary of the Mine Wars battle that dealt labor unions an initial blow, but eventually gave workers the strength to organize in the coming decades.

To walk those same roads and with the same goal in mind to form a union to protect the lives of coal miners, it was almost a spiritual experience, Dawson said. They streamed in from different places to take the same road for the same cause.

The story of the Battle of Blair Mountain is not as widely known, considering its historical significance.

It involved thousands of miners taking up arms in late August and early September 1921 to literally fight for better pay, more freedoms in company towns and safer working conditions. More than a hundred people died in the violence in the southern West Virginia hills, and the U.S. Army eventually was dispatched to quell the uprising. While the miners were defeated, their cause eventually gave way to the explosion in the labor movement in the 1930s amidst the Great Depression.

Dawson marched beside her longtime friend and fellow retired coal miner Libby Lindsay, and the two women thought about those who came before them and the impact of the march.

For both of us to pick up the spirit of our forebears who made it possible for us to work safely in union mines so many years later, it was moving. It was a thank you. We were determined to keep going, said Dawson, who left coal mining and later became a teacher in the Pittsburgh Public Schools.

Dawson traveled to the five-day event from her home in Pittsburgh with Lou Martin, an associate professor of history at Chatham University who helped to found the West Virginia Mines Wars Museum in Mingo County. Martin attended a similar event a decade ago after Blair Mountain in Logan County was removed from the National Register of Historic Places and nearly wiped off the map when plans were made for mountaintop removal coal extraction. Blair Mountain was eventually re-listed as a historic place, but Martin said the 100th anniversary celebration this past weekend in several towns from Charleston to Matewan told the story of the culminating event of the Mine Wars of the early 20th century.

Its an important chapter in West Virginia history, American labor history, and how so many of us enjoy health care, pensions, weekends and other things we take for granted, Martin said. We needed to restore it to its rightful place.

Martin, 49, who grew up near Weirton, W.Va., but now lives in Beaver County, authored the book, Smokestacks in the Hills, telling the story about industrial workers in rural West Virginia. Martin said the Battle of Blair Mountain emboldened miners and other industrial workers to organize and take a stand as federal laws in the 1930s helped them to organize in lightning fast speed.

It did end in defeat for the union miners, but it was an amazing display of solidarity across many divides: language, race and ethnicity, geography, Martin said. It was an illustration of what miners could do when they came together in a common cause.

While union membership has diminished in recent decades, the fight for workers still resonates today, Martin said. He pointed to the statewide teachers strike in West Virginia in 2018 and the current push to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour.

Its certainly true that labor laws have changed and undercut a lot of union protections. And its true union membership continues to decline overall. But were also in a moment over the last few years when there has been more union activity than any time I can remember, Martin said. The time is right for a resurgence for a labor movement. It just might not take the same form as it did in the 1930s when the miners were taking the lead.

Martin saw that firsthand at the various events across several counties that attracted more visitors than he was expecting. Organizers set out about 20 chairs to wait for a walking tour at the Mine Wars museum in Matewan and were amazed when 120 people were standing in line waiting to attend, even attracting one visitor all the way from Alaska.

I had high hopes and every event exceeded my expectations by a mile, he said. It was just an incredible thing for that many people to come to that town for that day.

Roberts, the UMWA president, was center stage for several of the events and spoke to Dawson during various portions of the march. But Dawson was blown away when Roberts came over to her at the end of the march Sunday and asked if he could get a photograph with her while praising her UMWA Local 1197 and its leadership, calling out Mark Segedi and Gary Bostich by name.

She comes from a strong local! Roberts told others about 1197, which is based in Cokeburg.

This guy is president of the whole union and would remember their names and my local, Dawson said. Its a testimony to the central place that our part of the country has in coal mining history, at least in the mind of the current president.

Experiencing the celebration surrounding the Battle of Blair Mountain and the march with other miners are memories Dawson said she will cherish forever.

They fought and they lost some battles and they won some big ones, Dawson said. If we have a sense of our own history, we have some hope. Being down there gave that to me, and Im very grateful for that.
Washington, PA (15301)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 74F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms mainly during the evening. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
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Ouachita Baptist University has set several enrollment records for the Fall 2021 semester, including the schools highest total enrollment in 55 years as well as the largest freshman class, best freshman-to-sophomore retention rate and highest four-year graduation rate on record.

Students are coming to, staying at and graduating from Ouachita in record numbers  all in the midst of a pandemic, said Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita president. This reflects the great care that our faculty and staff take to create a transformational college experience, the unique campus culture students help create and the generous support of alumni, friends and churches.

Welcoming 486 first-time freshmen to campus this fall, Ouachita marks not only its largest class on record but also a 25 percent gain over the previous years class. This years freshman class also is distinctive in its diversity and academic strength. Thirty-eight percent earned a 4.0 or higher high school grade point average (GPA), 25 percent are the first in their families to pursue higher education and 26 freshmen are Arkansas Governors Distinguished Scholars. Twenty percent of the class are students of color, making it the most diverse cohort in the universitys history.

Last years freshmen returned to Ouachita as sophomores in record numbers, as well. More than 84 percent returned, the highest freshman-to-sophomore retention rate on record for the university.

The record freshman class and record retention rate resulted in total undergraduate residential student enrollment of 1,547. Total enrollment for the university is 1,764, which includes residential, online and graduate students, as well as high school students taking Ouachita courses for concurrent credit. The previous high was 1,881 in 1966.

Additionally, the graduating class of 2021 posted a 63.5 percent four-year graduation rate, another university record and positive indicator for student satisfaction and success. By comparison, the average four-year graduation rate among all colleges and universities in Arkansas was 32 percent for the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics.

These enrollment records coupled with record giving and a record endowment illustrate our multi-year institutional momentum, Sells said. They reflect the increasing value families place on Ouachitas distinctive approach to Christian higher education.

While we celebrate record results, we know that every student has a name and a story, he added, and we at Ouachita have the privilege to help each become the person God intends.

Ouachita Baptist University, a private liberal arts university in Arkadelphia, Ark., is entering its 136th year as a Christ-centered learning community and is ranked the No. 2 Regional College in the South by U.S. News & World Report. Learn more about the universitys highly personal approach, reflected in a student/faculty ratio of 13:1, at www.obu.edu.


Secrets is still so good. Let me put it on repeat again

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I'm still surprised that it took this long for Hyungwon to start producing for the group tbh, he really has an ear for smooth sexy jams

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Between this and Nobody Else he's really got something. I hope they let him do more.

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hey OP thank u so much for this post!!! Ive been too busy to catch up (except for kihyuns cover!) so this is super useful for me 

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np!!! life got in my way and the monstas released WAY too many content and bagging endorsements here and there, I'm sure I've missed out a few!

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I don't follow them as a group, but I played All About Luv repeatedly last year - ugh it's so so good! They really succeeded where I feel alot of Kpop acts have failed when it comes to making good English songs. Definitely looking forward to their new album.

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aw, kihyun's lisp. it's how eric nam figured out it was him on his ep of the masked singer, iirc lol.



"secrets" is such a good song imo.



I.M really like, grew into being an idol. i remember thinking he was so cute in the "hero" video and that was fine, but now that he's all into smoldering and shit i'm like, "okay, you're too young so i'll just pat you on the head." lmao.

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He did a thing with baeverse (so did woodz) and some fans said it was rough because he said something like being an idol is traumatic or something. Big I.M dropped a new single recently through his baeverse thing.

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Everyone is just amazed at how much I.M grew, and personally I think SSE wanted to push him as the token "4th Gen it boy/rep" from the group. Some people thought that he's being more arrogant, but he definitely puts on that act for the stage, while still being shy, awkward and albeit endearing off cam. But dude clearly knows how to win the hearts of many though 



If you watch the Baverse documentary, there's a scene where he was surprised by facing a Monbebe (his nuguseyo? who are you, LOL). He didn't switch on to his flirty fanservice side at all during that whole interaction, but was incredibly shy. I feel like he needs to be in a certain zone when meeting fans, lol

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I made a post but LJ ate it and my lunch break was over. 



So much content, so little time! But Im also trying to not only consume Monek content daily aside from listening to their songs in a giant playlist of mine. But its good seeing the other members have so much going on when before it was mostly Shownu (either solo or with a member here and there).



Kinda surprised Ive seen some Monbebe shocked Nunu will be on the English album. They said before his enlistment that they were all working on finishing touches. He may have been on hiatus but Nunu was still hella busy.



Changkyuns Baverse episode was interesting for sure. I tend to relate to him more than others. I prefer to be alone but I also dont deny the need for human interaction/connection. Im happy hes allowed to be himself. And lol at Jooheon buying snacks because theyre cute (like Changkyun). 



Looking forward to One Day but probably wont be able to listen to it until tomorrow morning. Apparently some Monbebe are getting salty over line distribution. Im just over here hoping theres less autotune compared to One Of A Kind (looking directly at you Rotate).

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Minhyuk and Shownu really opened the doors for the rest, but I also believe that their 2020 magazines gig (and working with outsourced stylists and makeup artists) helped them to get recommended for other shows. I am really proud that they're steadily cementing themselves among the korean public genuinely through their charms.



Nunu definitely recorded all the songs (and other shownuayo things) before his enlistment, no way they're going to release the English album without him lol. I choked when I hear his voice in the song though.



Changkyun's baverse feels like a relief for me because it affirms so many things about him being comfortable being alone lol. Jooheon was so cute, lol. I wish we'd see more of his other idol friends but was nice to have Jinjin there and a junior idol with him.



I usually don't hold high hopes for their English songs since they are usually short (like, hello? where is the bridge???). The song is cute and easy for radioplay, the vocals gets blurry during the chorus, Changkyun and Hyungwon sounds AMAZING. I hope the boys are happy with it.

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Great roundup, bb! - also hiii :)

Really brings home how crazy busy they are these days, they got so many jobs theyre singlehandedly keeping that roof over Starships head lol. Plus theyre constantly on V app, fc, social media etc. Like a while ago Min filmed Back to the Idol live, jumped on V app for a while, then immediately drove down to the countryside for his tv show  Idk how they do it all, I cant even keep up with watching lol



Changkyun seems to be really finding his voice as an artist and not everything he puts out is for me but its still great to see him grow and develop as a performer and producer. Baverse isnt anything particularly new but its interesting to see how he expresses different sides of himself in different media and what kind of personas he does and doesn't put on. His conversations with Junggigo and Jinjin were really sweet.



Also, I cant bother with Midnight Idol every damn day lmao but Ive caught snippets and Ki and Changkyun are so cute and funny. I did watch the BTOB Minhyuk & Peniel episode a couple days ago and it was a lot of fun and they talked about that episode of MX-Ray they did together all those years ago ^_T



I've been listening to the song and... I have thoughts lol but I'll save those for the music posts



Edited at 2021-09-10 12:58 pm (UTC)

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Navigating Compliance in the Biden Administration: Reducing Financial Risk, Penalties and Reputational Damage

In late January 2021, when President Joe Biden took office and the Senate changed control, by the slimmest of margins, American business ushered in the first two-year period under unified Democratic party control since 2009-2010. Based on actions taken in the first six months of this Administration, those businesses would be excused for feeling a bit of compliance whiplash. Let us examine two of the most impactful changes in employer regulations during that time and the actions companies should take to manage or minimize their impact.

Healthcare Continuation Coverage Under COBRA

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed by President Biden on March 11, 2021, included extensions of many CARES Act and other early pandemic-related legislation, including extensions and/or modifications to Paycheck Protection Program loans, the Employee Retention Tax Credit and paid Emergency Sick and Family Leave.

Perhaps the most unprecedented changes to employee benefits under ARPA were to the health insurance continuation rights of certain employees under COBRA. Since its passage in 1986, COBRA has guaranteed employees who terminate employment, voluntarily or involuntarily (except for gross misconduct) or those who experience a reduction in hours such that they no longer qualify for coverage, up to 18 months of continued health insurance coverage. Employers have been allowed to charge those qualified beneficiaries up to 102 percent of the total cost of coverage for an active employee.

Under ARPA, and solely for the period April 1 through September 30, 2021, beneficiaries who qualify for coverage due to involuntary termination (but not voluntary quits) or reduction in hours will pay nothing. Employers may not charge the COBRA continuee any premium. They will be reimbursed by the federal government, as an employment tax credit, up to the total 102 percent cost of coverage they would otherwise collect from the continuee. There are many compliance requirements surrounding this provision, and full detail on them can be found at Ascentis blog on the subject, here (Part I) and here (Part II).
In a little over a decade Latin Americas largest economy Brazil has become a leading global oil producer. At the end of 2020, Brazil was not only pumping the most oil in Latin America, an average of 3.03 million barrels daily, but finished ranked as the worlds seventh largest producer behind OPEC member Iraq and ahead of the United Arab Emirates. According to Brazils Mines and Energy Minister Bento Albuquerque, Latin Americas top oil producer will become the worlds fifth-largest petroleum exporter by the end of this decade. Brazils government is forecasting that the country will be pumping 5.3 million barrels of oil per day by 2030 facilitating its ability to substantially boost exports. That is compared to an average of 3.05 million barrels of crude oil and condensate production per day for July 2021 and an average of 2.94 million for the first seven months of 2021. This indicates that there is still considerable work to be completed if Brazil is to achieve such an ambitious target.

Despite ructions, earlier this year sparked by President Bolsonaros dismissal of Petrobras CEO Roberto Castello Branco who was replaced by former Defense Minister Joaquim Silva e Luna, production continues to grow. Even the considerable fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic has done little to blunt Brazils monumental offshore oil boom. Data from Brazils National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels shows that by July 2021 the country was pumping on average 3.9 million barrels of oil equivalent per day, a 4% increase month over month and 0.6% higher than a year earlier. It is Brazils prolific offshore pre-salt oilfields that are driving the countrys production growth. During July 2021, pre-salt oil production jumped by 3.7% compared to a month prior and 4.1% year over year to 2.8 million barrels per day.

It is the giant Tupi oilfield, which since starting production in 2010 pumped more than 2 billion barrels of crude oil and is Brazils largest producing field pumping 916,826 barrels of petroleum per day during July 2021. That is followed by the 210,000-acre Buzios oilfield, which for the same period pumped 569,648 barrels of crude oil, making it Brazils second largest field. Buzios, the worlds largest deepwater offshore oilfield with the capacity to pump 600,000 barrels daily from 4 FPSOs and a network of 45 completed wells, is the engine for Brazils planned crude oil production growth. Brazils National oil company Petrobras plans to invest $17 billion in the deep-water field between 2021 and 2025 which will see 8 FPSOs added in less than a decade lifting production capacity to at least 2 million barrels per day. That means the supergiant offshore field will be producing up to an additional 1.4 million barrels daily by 2030 or around 61% of the planned additional production of 2.3 million barrels per day by the end of the decade.

Related: 3 Bullish Catalysts For Oil This Fall

Buzios crude oil has an API gravity of around 28 degrees and 0.32% sulfur content which are similar characteristics to Brazils Lula oil variety which is extremely popular in China. Like Lula, Buzios is low sulfur and metals content crude oil grade which with a pour point of around 9 degrees indicates that it is relatively low in paraffin. Those characteristics make it not only cheaper and easier to refine into higher quality low emission fuels than heavier sour varieties of crude oil, but also suitable for blending with lower quality grades to produce higher-quality feedstock for refining. It is for those reasons that Buzios became highly popular among Asian refiners during 2020 as demand for sweet higher quality light and medium grade crude oil skyrocketed after the introduction of IMO2020 last year. China is now a key market for Brazilian crude oil with the volume of imports from Latin Americas largest petroleum producer soaring during 2020, seeing it become the third-largest crude oil supplier to the worlds second-largest economy. The volume of petroleum China is importing from Brazil has, however, steadily fallen since the start of 2021 with Latin Americas largest oil producer seeing July petroleum cargoes to China plunged by 47% compared to a year earlier. That has caused Brazil to slide from being the third-largest source for Chinas crude oil imports to fifth place behind Angola at fourth, Iraq in third, and Russia then Saudi Arabia ranked second and first respectively.

Nevertheless, it is an energy-hungry China that will remain the primary consumer of Brazilian crude oil. The worlds second-largest economy is expected to pull ahead of the U.S. during 2021 to become the largest refiner globally. That, coupled with a return economic growth as pandemic impacts ease, will drive higher consumption of fuels. Demand for high-quality low sulfur and metals content crude oil is growing at a solid clip, primarily because of ever-stricter emissions regulations and the fact that it is easier as well as cheaper to refine. That is further bolstered by Asia being a key global shipping hub with Singapore, the worlds number one ranked bunkering port by volume, and Hong Kong the fourth largest. Chinas production of maritime fuels is rapidly expanding, causing demand for sweeter low contaminant IMO 2020 crude oil grades to soar. For those reasons, demand for sweet high-quality crude oil remains strong in Asia. In fact, according to energy industry analysts, Chinas refiners are reputedly paying premiums on certain crude oil imports to secure November 2021 supplies now that pandemic restrictions are easing.

Those events will ensure that demand for Lula and Buzios crude oil varieties will keep expanding, particularly as Chinas economic growth and refining activity ratchets upward. The strong demand outlook coupled with the prolific pre-salt oilfields low breakeven prices estimated to be on average below $35 per barrel, and high-quality crude oil grades is attracting solid investment inflows from foreign energy majors. Those along with Petrobras planned $17 billion investment in the Buzios field will support Brazils forecast production growth, allowing Latin Americas largest economy to become the worlds fifth-ranked oil exporter.

By Matthew Smith for Oilprice.com

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Venezuelas near-collapse and strict U.S. sanctions are creating an opportunity for Russia, Iran and China to strengthen their presence in Latin America, a region that for decades has been under U.S. hegemony. While Russia and Iran have, to an extent, gained a foothold in Venezuela by providing crucial support to the embattled Maduro regime, it is China that stands to benefit the most if it can secure a close relationship with the socialist authoritarian regime.

Venezuela is endowed with tremendous oil wealth with the pariah South American country possessing the worlds largest petroleum reserves of 304 billion barrels. The growing desperation within Caracas, caused by the petrostates near-collapse, has created an opportunity for China to exploit Venezuelas vast hydrocarbon resources. This could not occur at a more crucial juncture for China with the country overtaking the U.S. to become the worlds largest refiner and the largest importer of crude oil. Chinas endless thirst for petroleum, which is a crucial source of energy for its growing economy, is forcing Beijing to look at obtaining greater access to oil supplies around the globe. Chinas state enterprises have shown a willingness to circumvent U.S. sanctions to receive crude oil imports from Venezuela and Iran.

Growing pressure to obtain additional crude oil supplies saw Chinese logistics firm China Concord Petroleum Co, known as CCPC, emerge as a leading player in circumventing U.S. sanctions to supply Venezuelan crude oil to East Asian refiners. The firms importance is highlighted by data sourced by news agency Reuters which shows that during April and May 2021 vessels charted by CCPC carried more than a fifth of Venezuelas oil exports during those months. According to a Reuters investigation, CCPC has acquired at least 14 petroleum tankers to transport Venezuelan and Iranian crude despite Washingtons sanctions against both pariah states. By July 2021, Venezuelas oil exports grew for a second straight month reaching 713,097 barrels per day with most of that crude oil destined for China.

Related: The Major Problem With EVs No One Is Talking About



After abandoning directly extracting Venezuelan crude oil in August 2019 as a response to the stricter sanctions applied by the Trump administration, Beijing is focusing on expanding its presence in the OPEC member. Reportedly, state-controlled China National Petroleum Corp, or CNPC, is sending staff to Venezuela in preparation for investing in operations as President Maduro finalizes legislation aimed at facilitating greater private control of energy projects. That legislation the authoritarian leader hopes will attract the foreign investment urgently required to rebuild Venezuelas shattered petroleum industry thereby allowing Caracas to reconstruct Venezuelas failing economy. CNPC is also in negotiations with PDVSA regarding ramping up production at five joint ventures it has with Venezuelas national oil company.

The importance of attracting foreign investment is emphasized by the parlous state of Venezuelas once-mighty oil industry with production continuing to decline. By August 2021 oil output for PDVSA and its foreign partner was reported to be an average of 520,000 barrels per day, or slightly less than the 524,000 barrels pumped a month earlier and significantly less than the 713,097 barrels exported by Caracas for that month. Unsurprisingly, Julys oil output is well below the target set by petroleum minister Tareck El Aissami, who in a June 2021 Bloomberg interview stated production will rise to 1.5 million barrels by the end of this year. To meet that ambitious target Venezuela would need to almost triple average daily oil production from July 2021 levels.

The only means of reaching such an ambitious target and eventually returning Venezuelas oil production to over 2 million barrels daily is by attracting significant foreign capital. PDVSA believes it will take $58 billion to restore production to pre-Chavez 1998 levels of around 3 million barrels per day. Whereas, Maduro has indicated that investing as little as $30 billion will boost production potentially to as much as 5 million barrels daily. Those numbers based on the analysis conducted by other industry experts appear implausible with a far larger investment needed. Leading industry-academic Francisco Monaldi director of the Latin America Energy Program at the Houston-based Center for Energy Studies at Rice Universitys Baker believes Maduros and PDVSAs estimates are overly optimistic. In a February 2021 policy brief, Monaldi explained it would take an investment of $10 to $12 billion annually for a decade, over $110 billion in total for Venezuela to lift crude oil output to 1 million barrels per day within two years and then reach 2.5 to 3 million barrels daily by the end of 10 years.

Other sources including the economic advisers to the U.S. recognized interim President Juan Guaidos estimate it will require an even greater investment, potentially up to $250 billion to reach pre-Chavez production of over 3 million barrels per day.

Even Maduros moves to create a more investor-friendly environment for international oil companies have not attracted the significant capital required to resurrect Venezuelas rapidly corroding petroleum industry. This is because Washingtons strict sanctions, notably those imposed by the Trump administration during 2019 which cut Caracas off from global energy and capital markets, are deterring investment from foreign energy companies. It is Western energy majors which are crucial to rebuilding Venezuelas shattered petroleum industry because much of the countrys oil infrastructure was designed and built by US and European companies during the 1970s oil boom.

While U.S. sanctions are preventing investment by Western energy supermajors, Beijing certainly possesses the capital and technology required to resurrect Venezuelas crumbling energy sector. Chinas $1 trillion Belt and Road Initiative highlights the considerable resources, labor, and technology at Beijings disposal. The worlds second-largest economy has shown a willingness to circumvent and even defy U.S. sanctions when doing so provides China with a tangible benefit.

Any push by CNPC to boost investment through its partnership with PDVSA will give Beijing greater control over the worlds largest petroleum endowment. That would not only ensure greater energy security for an oil-hungry economy that is set to overtake the U.S. and become the worlds largest by the end of this decade but substantially bolster Chinas geopolitical power. Beijings desire to expand its influence in Latin America is in direct response to Washingtons ongoing presence in Asia and support for Taiwan. It will also strengthen Chinas influence in Latin America, a region traditionally under U.S. hegemony, giving Beijing greater access to South Americas abundant natural resources including oil, gold, silver, copper and rare earth metals. Beijing believes this will enhance its standing vis a vis Washington and give it the upper hand in the ongoing rivalry between the two giant economic and military powers.

Any investment by Beijing in Venezuela will provide the socialist Maduro regime with a financial lifeline that will allow PDVSA to expand petroleum production thereby bolstering the Venezuelan governments ability to resist U.S. sanctions. That will prolong the existence of an autocratic regime that has proven nearly impervious, despite cracks appearing in recent months, to U.S. sanctions for over a decade. It is worth considering that Beijing, by ramping up Venezuelan oil operations, is improving its prospects of recovering an estimated outstanding $19 billion in oil backed loans. By August 2020, Maduros regime had secured a grace period for repayments until the end of that year with the COVID-19 pandemic weighing heavily on production. OPEC data shows that by June 2020 Venezuelas oil production had fallen to an average of 336,000 barrels per day, although it has been steadily climbing since then.

Source: OPEC Monthly Oil Market Report.

If Beijing returns to being a lender of last resort and provides the capital as well as other resources needed to rebuild Venezuelas crumbling petroleum industry, then Maduros power will strengthen while the value of Washingtons sanctions will decline. It is Maduros growing weakness and fears the Venezuelan state will collapse which are the driving force behind recent unilateral actions aimed at building a rapport with Washington and seeking an easing of sanctions. That has created an opportunity for the Biden administration to seek an alternative path when dealing with Venezuela, the autocratic Maduro regime and the countys massive humanitarian crisis that will cease to exist if Beijing steps in to fill the void.

By Matthew Smith for Oilprice.com

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As environmental concerns become increasingly pressing for governments and businesses alike, the shipping industry is taking steps to reduce its carbon footprint. In late August Danish shipping company Maersk, the worlds largest container shipping line, announced that it had invested $1.4bn in eight new vessels that will be powered by methanol rather than oil-based fuels.

The ships, set to be delivered in 2024, represent 3% of the companys total container capacity. They will replace older ships in the fleet and are expected to save up to 1m tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

Under the terms of the deal with South Korean manufacturer Hyundai Heavy Industries, Maersk has the option to secure four more ships in 2025.

The decision represents the latest step in Maersks efforts to improve its environmental footprint.

In February the company said that its newbuild vessels would be able to use carbon-neutral fuels, and that a new, smaller container vessel capable of running on clean versions of methanol is expected to be operational by 2023.

Aside from exploring new sources of fuel, the company has implemented a series of engineering upgrades to improve the efficiency of its fleet.

In 2013 Maersk undertook a program of retrofitting its container ships. This included a nose job on 12 of its New Panamax vessels, whereby a ships bulbous bow was replaced for a more streamlined design, as well as the implementation of a new propeller and propeller boss cap fin.

The changes helped to reduce fuel emissions by more than 10% and also led to unexpected benefits with regard to sound pollution.

The new designs resulted in a 6- to 8-decibel reduction in sound pressure, which translated into a 75% drop in acoustic energy. The reduction was regarded as having a positive impact on endangered killer whale populations off Canadas south-west coast, with ship noise considered a major obstacle to whales ability to hunt and communicate with each other.

Environmental reforms continue

In a similar vein, earlier this year Belgian shipping company Euronav finalized an order for two ships capable of running on ammonia or liquefied natural gas, before announcing the establishment of a program to speed up the rollout of tankers that can be powered by duel-fuel ammonia systems. Related: Europe Is Subsidizing Its Way Into Electric Vehicle Leadership Experimentation with green transport technologies is also taking place in other industries that rely heavily on maritime transport.

In October last year US agricultural firm Cargill, one of the worlds largest charterers of ships and tankers, announced that it was working on a plan to fit wind sails to its 600-strong fleet in order to reduce carbon emissions.

The company said the sails will help to reduce carbon emissions by up to 30%, with the first vessels expected to be in the water next year.

Meanwhile, energy major Shell launched a feasibility study in April to trial the use of hydrogen fuel cells for ships in Singapore, the first such move for the company.

Cutting shippings footprint

These efforts come amid growing awareness of the shipping sectors environmental footprint. With around 90% of the worlds trade transported by sea, the sector accounts for 2.9% of global carbon emissions, according to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), a UN body.

Leading industry organizations have spearheaded calls for more environmentally sustainable practices.

The IMO, which hopes to halve the sectors greenhouse emissions from 2008 levels by 2050, last year implemented rules to reduce the maximum sulfur content in marine fuel from 3.5% to 0.5%, a change that resulted in a 70% reduction in total shipping-related sulfur oxide emissions.

Industry bodies such as Europe-based Transport & Environment have outlined a number of ways in which shipping companies could reduce their environmental impact. These include engine improvements, propeller optimization, and the use of zero-carbon fuels such as e-hydrogen and e-ammonia.

Another simpler solution is the introduction of speed limits for large container vessels. According to a 2019 report compiled by Transport & Environment and environmental group Seas at Risk, a 20% reduction in the speed of ships would cut sulfur and nitrogen oxides by 24%, as well as reduce underwater noise by 66% and minimize the risk of colliding with whales by 78%.

While measurable progress is being made, there are hurdles to overcome in order for the sector to meet such ambitious targets.

One relates to the supply of alternative fuels, with Maersk noting that despite its planned rollout of vessels powered by carbon-neutral methanol, sourcing a sufficient supply of the fuel may take time.

Related: Is The World Investing Enough In Nuclear Fusion Research?

Sourcing an adequate amount of carbon-neutral methanol from day one in service will be challenging, as it requires a significant production ramp-up of proper carbon-neutral methanol production, a company statement in international media noted.

Another hurdle is cost. While the kind of extensive engineering retrofits being undertaken by Maersk and others can lead to meaningful efficiency gains, they are unaffordable for most companies at present, meaning that only the largest firms in the world may be capable of carrying them out until these dynamics change.

In an effort to spur the industrys shift towards more climate-friendly solutions, earlier this week the International Chamber of Shipping, which represents 80% of the worlds merchant fleet, proposed large cargo ships heavier than 5000 gross tonnes be subjected to a surcharge on the carbon dioxide they emit.

The group said it will submit the proposal to the UN, with the planned surcharges to be put towards a fund to subsidize clean fuel alternatives.

By Oxford Business Group

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Chinas long-standing policy of non-interference is challenged by the cruel geopolitical realities and developments in the country with which it shares its smallest border. The U.S. military withdrawal, coupled with Afghanistans seizure by the Taliban, have marked a major turning point, presenting China with both opportunities and challenges. It seems Beijing can no longer afford to stay away from the region.

Background: Bidens decision to withdraw

In April this year, President Biden announced one of his early flagship foreign policy decisions: the withdrawal of the U.S. military forces from Afghanistan by the 11th of September 2021. However, by August 15, the Taliban had already managed to take over Afghanistan, including Kabul, bar some districts of Panjshir province, forcing the U.S. into a premature withdrawal.

Ending U.S. direct involvement in a war that cost 2,400 U.S. military lives and more than $3 trillion was one of the few points of convergence between Biden and his predecessor, Donald Trump. Following a bilateral agreement in Doha between the Trump Administration and the Taliban in February 2020, a timetable for the U.S. withdrawal was set, in exchange for the Talibans promises to relaunch peace talks with the Afghan government. Approximately 90% of the U.S. troops withdrawal has already taken place.

The current U.S. president pledged to continue assisting the Afghan government financially and to provide support for its security forces. However, both international and local observers have questioned the timing of the withdrawal, particularly at a time when Taliban fighters are regaining significant ground.

Taliban advances across the Afghan territory

Earlier in July the Taliban made significant advances in Herat province, seizing important major transit routes across Afghan-Iranian borders. Over the course of the first two weeks of August, the Taliban had successfully seized the majority of the countrys provincial capitals, including Ghazni, Lashkar Gah, Herat and Kandahar, Afghanistans second largest city. On August 15, Kabul had already fallen to the Taliban. Currently, the Taliban are fighting in order to seize Panjshir province, the last anti-Taliban stronghold.

The UN reported that civilian casualties rose by 29% in the first quarter of 2021. It is estimated that 270,000 Afghans have already been displaced during the first half of 2021, while neighbouring states (mainly Tajikistan and Pakistan) are preparing for a new influx of refugees due to the Taliban transition to power, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. The UNHCR expects up to 500,000 Afghans to flee Afghanistan by the end of 2021 in a worst case scenario.

The U.S. withdrawal has already left a significant power vacuum. As question marks are raised over the way the Taliban are expected to rule, regional actors are expected to step in, in order to share the burden and prevent a potential collapse of the Afghan state.

Russia, Iran, Turkey, India and Pakistan have their own reasons to intervene. However, the biggest question is whether China will depart from its longstanding non-alignment policy to be actively involved in an area historically known as the graveyard of empires.

Motives and current involvement: What is at stake for China in Afghanistan?

For years, China was benefitting from the U.S. presence as a stability provider in Afghanistan, allowing Beijing to focus on its purely (geo)economic goals. However, following the U.S. military withdrawal and the transition to the rule of the Taliban, Afghanistan could once again turn into a harbour of terrorism, resulting in a potential spill-over effect across its own borders. Chinas leading political figures, including Xi Jinping, have repeatedly expressed the need to address the so-called three evil forces (extremism, terrorism, separatism), a discourse allegedly associated with the armed separatist movement in its own Xinjiang province.

Secondly, apart from security considerations, China has its own economic interests in the region. Afghanistan is a country notably rich in minerals, such as copper, cobalt, iron, mercury and lithium, with an estimated value of $1 trillion. The majority of them remain unexploited. It is also a country heavily reliant on international aid (approximately 40 percent of its GDP in 2018, according to the World Bank). Its vital need to secure alternative sources of funding offers Beijing investment opportunities in constructing and mining natural resources. Moreover, Beijing could add one more corridor to its current complex network of pipelines, roadways, railways, ports and power grids under the auspices of its One Belt, One Road Initiative, as an extension of the existing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. A politically stable Afghanistan with a cooperative government in Kabul, whether dominated exclusively by Taliban or in a more inclusive format, is a precondition.

China has already held talks with the Taliban. Last year, it was reported that Beijing offered to assist rebuilding Afghanistans damaged infrastructure by funnelling funds directly to the group through Pakistan, Chinas closest ally in the region. It is in Beijings interest to engage with local stakeholders, including the Taliban, offering its conditional support in exchange for commitment to its own priorities. Indeed, China will likely seek to alter the groups stance on Xinjiang, demanding it to cut its ties with Uighur armed separatist groups such as the East Turkestan Islamic Movement.

Thus, earlier in July, the spokesman for the Taliban Political Office in Qatar confirmed that the group perceives China as a friend of Afghanistan, also stating that the group will no longer provide refuge to Uighur separatist groups from China. On July 28, a Taliban delegation visited China in order to discuss security related issues and the peace process. The Chinese foreign minister reiterated Beijings belief that Taliban are expected to play an important role in the progress of peaceful reconciliation and reconstruction in Afghanistan, arguably boosting the militant groups international outlook.

Assuming a peacekeeping role towards greater engagement?

Even though greater involvement of different regional actors should be expected, it appears that it is China that potentially holds the key to Afghanistans peace and reconstruction. Indeed, with its policy of neutrality, its declared support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process, and more importantly, its rising geopolitical and geo-economic clout, it has the privilege of being perceived as a trusted and respected party to all conflicting sides in Afghanistan, including the Taliban.

Hence, the new state of affairs shaped by U.S. withdrawal presents China with both risks and opportunities. However, it remains to be seen whether China will manage to maintain this delicate equilibrium without being further dragged into deeper engagement, following in the footsteps of Soviet Russia and the U.S.

By Global Risk Insights

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Democrats will have nominated the majority of the five-member independent Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) if President Joe Bidens nomination is confirmed by the Senate.

President Biden announced on Thursday his intent to nominate Willie L. Phillips, Jr. as a Commissioner of the FERC, the White House said today.

The independent FERC agency regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, electricity, and other energy projects, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects.

As the Biden Administration works to tackle the climate crisis, advance environmental justice, and create a clean electricity grid by 2035, FERC will maintain an important role regulating the transmission of carbon-free energy across the country, the White House said.

Phillips, currently Chairman of the Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia, was a thoughtful and innovative leader in modernizing the energy grid, implementing the Districts aggressive clean energy and climate goals, and in protecting the Districts customers, according to the White House.

Phillips, if confirmed by the Senate, is poised to succeed Neil Chatterjee, who stepped down from FERC in August.

Thrilled @POTUS has nominated my friend @wlphillips to serve @ferc Should he be confirmed it would be an honor to have him succeed me, Chatterjee tweeted today.

In response to President Bidens intention to nominate Phillips as a Commissioner, FERC Chairman Rich Glick said on Thursday:

I congratulate DC Public Service Commission Chairman Willie Phillips on his selection to be the next member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. He is highly qualified and very well regarded.

Glick noted that FERCs work is essential to advancing the U.S. clean energy transition and to ensuring the reliability and security of American energy infrastructure.

A five-member Commission is critical to ensuring this important work continues. As is tradition, the Commission stands ready to support Chairman Phillips during the confirmation process, Glick added.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Oil and gas companies need to start planning for production cuts of 50 percent and more by the 2030s. That is, if they want to become aligned with Paris Agreement targets, said financial think tank Carbon Tracker in a new report this week.

The report said oil and gas majors were still spending billions on oil and gas production and new projects. However, these investments are inconsistent with the 1.5-degree scenario outlined in the Paris Agreement. Whats more, the reports authors said, even Big Oil majors with net-zero commitments were investing in new production. And with this, they are risking the future of these projects.

Oil and gas companies are betting against the success of global efforts to tackle climate change, said Mike Coffin, head of oil, gas, and mining at Carbon Tracker and one of the authors of the report.

If they continue with business-as-usual investment they risk wasting more than a trillion dollars on projects which will not be competitive in a low-carbon world. If the world is to avert climate catastrophe, demand for fossil fuels must fall sharply, Coffin added. Companies and investors must prepare for a world of lower long-term fossil fuel prices and a smaller oil and gas industry, and recognise now the risk of stranded assets that this creates.

Earlier this year, the International Energy Agency called for the suspension of all new oil and gas exploration by the end of this year if the world was to succeed in its energy transition efforts. Yet not much later, the agency called on OPEC to boost oil production as prices skyrocketed amid a strong rebound in oil demand.

This, according to most forecasts, is a temporary thing, and over the longer term, demand for oil will decline inexorably as the world moves to low-carbon energy systems.

As a result, according to Carbon Trackers, the oil industry needs to choose between risking having much of its assets stranded or reducing production voluntarily to avoid this risk.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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Govt-and-politics

Redistricting

Proposed congressional map would split Nebraska's blue dot

LINCOLN  A Republican redistricting proposal unveiled Wednesday would cleave off northwest Douglas County from a Nebraska congressional district that has been won by presidential and congressional Democrats at various points over the past decade.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the GOP chairwoman of the Legislatures Redistricting Committee, distributed the proposed district boundaries at a morning committee meeting.

The map would divide Douglas County, all of which currently sits in the states 2nd Congressional District. The district became known as Nebraskas blue dot following Democrat Joe Bidens electoral victory there in the 2020 presidential election.

The committee is slated to meet again Thursday to discuss her map and an alternative proposed by the committees vice chairman, Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, a Democrat.

Waynes map would leave Douglas County whole while putting Bellevue back into the 2nd District. The result would be similar to the districts boundaries following the 2001 redistricting.

The Linehan map, by contrast, would split Douglas County along Interstate 680 and West Dodge Road. Everything north and west of those main thoroughfares would move into the 1st Congressional District, which is dominated by Lincoln. The district is represented by U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry.

The revamped 2nd District would include the rest of Douglas County, all of Sarpy County and all of Saunders County. The district now is represented by U.S. Rep. Don Bacon.

All three of Nebraskas representatives are Republicans.

The Democratic map evens out the population among the three districts, while the Republican map has slight deviations. Legislative guidelines call for the districts to be as nearly equal as practicable in population.

Linehan previously expressed doubt that a proposal splitting Douglas County would advance far in the Legislature, though she said she would take a look if somebody would bring me a map that would make sense.

Competing plans give Omaha metro area a new legislative seat The Omaha metro area will gain a legislative district at the expense of more rural parts of the state, no matter whether Republicans or Democrats draw the new district maps.

On Wednesday she defended her proposal, saying that it would keep Sarpy County whole and follow natural boundaries. She pointed out other political districts divide Douglas County several ways, including proposed and historical Supreme Court, University of Nebraska Board of Regents and State Board of Education seats.

I dont know why we can slice Sarpy County but we cant touch Douglas, she said.

Linehan said she worked with fellow Republicans on drafting the proposal, while Wayne worked with Democrats on the redistricting committee.

Linehan said the plan would tilt the district slightly more Republican but leave the Democratic core of Omaha intact.

Its a positive (for the GOP) but its small, she said.

At the same time, it would give Sarpy County more of a voice by keeping it intact, Linehan said. County residents now are in districts dominated either by Omaha or Lincoln.

Theyre always the stepchild, she said.

Waynes proposal put the core of old Bellevue into the 2nd District. He said the area has common interests with Omaha and has historically been part of the 2nd Congressional District. The area was moved into the 1st District under a controversial Republican plan 10 years ago.

His map would split Sarpy and Otoe Counties. Linehans map would split Douglas, Burt and Cuming Counties.

Redistricting committee to release proposed maps for Nebraska on Sept. 10 State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan said the release date will give people time to study the plan before the public hearings and before lawmakers convene Sept. 13 to start a special session on redistricting.

The committee is aiming to settle on a redistricting package by Thursday night, for distribution to fellow lawmakers and the public by Friday. The Nebraska Legislature is slated to convene Monday for a special session focused on the redrawing of state political districts that is required every 10 years following the federal census.

The Legislature has to complete its work by Sept. 30 so that counties, school districts and other local subdivisions have time to redraw their election districts and local election officials can make changes to voting precincts.

State Democrats raised accusations of gerrymandering  drawing boundaries to give one party an unfair advantage in elections  in 2011 after Republican lawmakers pushed through a plan that moved the Democratic-leaning Bellevue out of the 2nd Congressional District, where it had been traditionally, and replaced it with GOP-heavy western Sarpy County.

The change came after the 2nd District gave an electoral vote to Democrat Barack Obama in the 2008 presidential election. Unlike nearly every other state, Nebraska awards three of its five Electoral College votes based on the winner of each congressional district.

The redrawn 2nd District remains competitive, however. It elected Democrat Brad Ashford to Congress in 2014 and gave an electoral vote to Biden last year.

Some Republican elected officials refrained from weighing in on the initial proposals Wednesday. A spokesperson for Gov. Pete Ricketts said he had not reviewed the maps. Similarly, a spokesperson for Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said the mayor was traveling and had not seen any of the maps.

Democratic party activists and advocates, on the other hand, wasted no time tearing into Linehans proposed congressional map.

Jane Kleeb, chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party, had only seen screenshots of the proposal Wednesday, but said it would likely lead to litigation if unchanged.

Were happy to draw a map for the Republicans to a courthouse, because thats where these maps will end up, she said.

Theres absolutely no way that we will stand for Douglas County being cut in half, and no way we are going to stand for rural counties not losing a senator when they absolutely should, based on population.

Nebraska Legislature's Redistricting Committee debates how open meetings should be The Legislature's Redistricting Committee got to work Monday on the process of redrawing state political district boundaries, and it wasn't long before some rough edges began showing.

Preston Love Jr., a get-out-the-vote and voting rights activist, said the Republican proposal would nullify the votes of predominantly Black neighborhoods of North Omaha.

You can leave a community intact, such as North Omaha, but if you water it down around the edges you in effect nullify it, said Love, a Democrat. You do that purposely even though you can claim you didnt touch North Omaha. Its tricky. But its gerrymandering.

Partisan gerrymandering is legal, but racial gerrymandering is illegal, said Crystal Rhoades, former Douglas County Democratic Party chair. She said most African-American voters are east of 72nd Street, so the Republican proposal leaves that area intact while splitting much of Douglas County off in an effort to make District 2 unwinnable by a Democrat.

Its their way of making sure the blue dot never happens again, said Rhoades, an elected member of the Nebraska Public Service Commission. They have been very upfront about that.

Precious McKesson, a Democrat from North Omaha who cast Nebraskas 2nd Congressional District Electoral College vote for Biden in December, called the Republican map gerrymandering at its finest.

In a tweet, she urged people to attend a public hearing in Omaha later this month to demand that Douglas County be kept whole.

We fought hard for the blue dot, no way were going to let them split it, McKesson said.

World-Herald staff writers Christopher Burbach and Sara Gentzler contributed to this report.
The attorney who filed a wrongful-death lawsuit over Omaha bar owner Jake Gardners suicide resurfaced Wednesday after a mysterious two-week absence from court proceedings.

John Pierce, a Los Angeles attorney who gained celebrity by briefly representing gunman Kyle Rittenhouse and partnering with one of Donald Trumps lawyers, had not shown up for several hearings on behalf of those accused in the Jan. 6 riots at the U.S. Capitol building.

Wednesday, he resumed his representation of his clients after what he said was a 12-day hospital stay. In a statement, he didnt give a reason for his hospitalization, although his associate had told the court he was battling COVID-19.

I am pleased to report that on Sunday, September 5, 2021, I was released from an LA-area hospital following a 12-day stay, Pierce wrote to the court. I was not missing or anything of the sort.

An employee of Pierces Los Angeles firm had given various reasons for Pierces absence. At one point, according to a court filing, the associate said Pierce was in a car wreck. At another, he said Pierce, who has been outspoken against the COVID-19 vaccine, had COVID, was on a ventilator and was unresponsive, according to prosecutors.
On a recent afternoon in early September, sitting in the very same classroom at Central High School, Scott Wilson walks through his day on Sept. 11, 2001, like it was yesterday.

Wilson, like other teachers who were in classrooms on 9/11, were with their students as they watched history unfold live on television.

Wilson didnt have a first-period class on that Tuesday 20 years ago, so he started his day watching the events in New York City on a TV in the school library.

News of what was going on traveled to Central through a phone call to one of the teachers, Wilson said. After the call, everyone turned their eyes to the TV screens.

There was definitely sadness, and just a real serious, somber tone that not only held over the school but anywhere else you went that day, he said.

Many teachers and students thought the incident was an accident at first, Wilson said, but they quickly learned that was not the case.

After the second plane hit the World Trade Center, he said, of course, at that moment, you knew that was completely intentional.

When it was time for his second-period class, Wilson wheeled in a TV to allow students to watch the live broadcast.
It almost never works out. In the event theyre not killed or arrested, Hughes said most return disenchanted. Investigations often hang over their heads. Hughes said there are about 1,000 active investigations  including at least one in every state  relating to the Islamic State.

In addition, Hughes said there are about 2,500 active investigations into domestic terrorism. Domestic terrorists encompass a wide range of ideologies, including White supremacism and neo-Nazism. Recent examples of domestic terrorism include the Jan. 6 storming of the United States Capitol.

In late June, John Cohen, the Department of Homeland Securitys counterterrorism coordinator, told attendees at a virtual UNO conference that the current homegrown extremism challenge is as tough of a terrorism challenge as the United States has ever faced.

Its the mission of the National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology and Education Center (NCITE) to stay one step ahead of the terrorists whether they be foreign or domestic.

Gina Ligon has headed the center since UNO got a 10-year, $36.5 million federal grant to launch the center last year. The center encompasses more than 50 researchers in multiple academic areas at 18 universities across the country, all of whom research violent extremism and how to stop it.
Flights were canceled at Eppley Airfield as planes were grounded around the country; drivers across Omaha waited in line to buy gasoline; people gathered for prayer services and donated blood. President Bush used Offutt Air Force Base as a secure logistical hub for part of the day of the attacks.

The days events were summed up in a story written for the next days newspaper by reporters Christopher Burbach and David Hendee.

As they watched and listened in numbed disbelief and horror, time stopped Tuesday for Nebraskans  and Americans everywhere  as they huddled around TVs and radios.

Burbach, who has been with the newspaper for 30 years, said he learned of the attacks when he received a phone call at home from one of the city editors that morning.

He rushed to the office to go to work. He recalls setting aside his own grief for those who were killed or injured, and for their families, to focus on reporting.
In advance of the 20th anniversary of the attacks, The World-Herald asked readers to share their memories from that day. Below are three submissions from former World-Herald staff members, which have been edited for length, grammar and style.

John Fey

Plattsmouth, Nebraska

Since I was working at The World-Herald that day, readers might find it interesting what was happening in the newsroom that morning. Perhaps you'll hear from some of my former colleagues.

I was a member of the news copy editing team that year, and my shift began at 10:30 a.m.  in time to help with the afternoon edition that was still being published. I was on my daily run earlier that morning and heard on my radio headphones that "a plane had struck New York City's World Trade Center." I immediately surmised that it was a small plane, not a large jet as I soon found out.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  The Republican primary for Pennsylvania's U.S. Senate seat turned personal Wednesday, as real estate developer Jeff Bartos slammed rival Sean Parnell for allegations related to his contentious divorce and child custody dispute. Parnell, the Trump-endorsed candidate, accused Bartos of lying and demanded he drop out of the race.

The attack was the sharpest yet of the primary for the seat being vacated by retiring Republican Sen. Pat Toomey.

Republicans and Democrats each have a big field of candidates for the open seat in the politically divided state, and the race is expected to be competitive and among a handful that could determine control of the Senate next year.

Bartos launched the attack by bringing up restraining orders sought by Parnell's wife in 2017 and in 2018 during divorce proceedings that are still ongoing.

Parnell's campaign disputed the notion that the temporary orders  granted prior to a hearing involving both parties  were evidence of any wrongdoing. Neither lasted more than a matter of days.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Six Black farmworkers in Mississippi say in a new lawsuit that their former employer brought white laborers from South Africa to do the same jobs they were doing, and that the farm has been violating federal law by paying the white immigrants more for the same type of work.

Mississippi Center for Justice and Southern Migrant Legal Services filed the federal lawsuit Wednesday on behalf of the six workers against Pitts Farm Partnership, which grows cotton, soybeans and corn in the Mississippi Delta's Sunflower County.

The lawsuit said the farm violated regulations of a foreign worker visa program, which requires equal treatment of U.S. workers and their immigrant counterparts. It seeks an unspecified amount in damages, including money the U.S. workers say they were shorted because of the uneven pay scale.

The Associated Press left messages by phone and email with Pitts Farms seeking comment about the lawsuit. There was no immediate response by Thursday afternoon.

Four of the plaintiffs  Andrew Johnson, Wesley Reed, Gregory Strong and Richard Strong  said they did agricultural work from February through November and Pitts Farm Partnership usually paid them the minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, with $8.25 an hour for weekend work.
LINCOLN  The Omaha metro area will gain a legislative district at the expense of more rural parts of the state, no matter whether Republicans or Democrats draw the new district maps.

That much the Legislatures Redistricting Committee agreed upon Wednesday after a spirited discussion over competing versions of new legislative districts.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the committee chairwoman, said she had hoped to avoid that result by shifting district boundaries eastward. But she acknowledged that it became impossible to even out the districts, when two-thirds of the districts were below the target population number.

Most legislative districts in rural Nebraska lost population during the past decade, while most urban ones gained population. Linehans own district has 19,511 more people than the target population of 40,030 for newly drawn districts.

I dont know how not to bring another district into Douglas and Sarpy County, she said.

On Wednesday morning, Linehan distributed a map crafted in concert with fellow Republicans that moved District 24, which now encompasses Seward, Polk and York Counties, into southwestern Sarpy County, one of the fastest-growing areas of the state.
A group in Nebraska is preparing to gather signatures for a pair of ballot initiatives to legalize medical cannabis.

The group, Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, announced on Wednesday that it recently filed drafts of its two measures. If it gathers enough signatures by a July deadline, voters will weigh in on both next November.

State Sen. Anna Wishart, one of two legislators involved in the effort, said one of the petitions will relate to protecting patients rights to have access to cannabis through a doctors recommendation. The other, she said, would set up a regulated, private industry to produce cannabis for the patients who qualify under the first initiative.

Its heartbreaking and senseless that politicians are standing in the way of families and patients who desperately need safe, legal access to medical cannabis, Sen. Adam Morfeld, the other state senator involved in the effort, said in a prepared statement. But we will not stop fighting for them. We hope that every Nebraskan will stand with us and help our campaign succeed by getting involved and supporting the effort however they can.
LINCOLN  The Legislatures Redistricting Committee decided Thursday to put out two redistricting plans for public comment, meaning Nebraskans will have a chance to weigh in on the merits and problems of each at public hearings set for next week.

The action delays a decision about which plan the committee will send to the full Legislature.

However, State Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, a Democrat who is the vice chairman of the committee, called the result a good compromise. He said it will promote transparency and bring new eyes to the process.

It gives all the committee members a little time to breathe, he said, noting that several have spent 16 hours a day working with the Legislatures mapping computers.

Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the committee chairwoman and a Republican, proposed the compromise. She noted that committees typically do not vote on legislation until after it has been introduced and been through a public hearing.

In contrast, the Redistricting Committee had been trying to reach a vote on a redistricting plan before a hearing. The plan was to be introduced as a committee bill package at the special legislative session on redistricting, which starts Monday.
Agriculture officials from Nebraska and two other states have decided to put more investment into the California ethanol-based fuel market.

The Nebraska Corn Board announced this week that it and corn checkoff organizations in Kansas and Missouri will provide California fuel retailers $1.25 million over the next year to increase availability of gasoline with an 85% ethanol blend, known commercially as E-85. The fuel will be supplied by Pearson Fuels, the largest E-85 distributor in California, which has nearly 250 retail stations located throughout the state.

Its the second investment in E-85 in California by the Nebraska Corn Board, which earlier this year provided two grants to Pearson to pay for E-85 pumps at two gas stations in the Los Angeles area.

These stations are moving a tremendous volume of E-85, said John Greer, the Corn Boards District 2 Director. One station alone would use about 50,000 bushels of corn in the form of ethanol in just a year. The investment is already proving worthwhile for our corn growers.

California is by far the largest E-85 market in the country, accounting for over 40 million gallons in 2020 and on track to reach 50 million gallons in 2021. Despite that, it has fewer E-85 stations than either Iowa or Minnesota, which combined have less than one-fourth the population.
Along the way, we learned a few things about building in tough places. When we purchased the 200 acres in South Sioux City, it was a major step for us and raised a few eyebrows. South Sioux City is now a predominately Hispanic community. I had several people question whether building a high-end development would work. I can report that it is working. Our residents represent the entire spectrum in our community, with more than half of our homeowners and apartment residents representing a minority group.

This is America  groups arrive, work hard and then thrive. In the recent census, about 22% of Nebraska represents a minority group. We have always viewed these populations as an opportunity to grow our company.

I want to share a few small examples of what we do to help our communities. On the reservation, we give away housing lots. We build houses at cost and provide tribal members with up to $65,000 in down payment assistance. In Omaha, we remodeled some townhouses and rent them at about one-third of market value to people transitioning from chemical dependency treatment. We recently met with members of a grassroots Nigerian group in South Sioux City who wanted help purchasing a community and day care center. We bought the building and leased it to them to match their budget. We also recently agreed to price some of our newest housing units well below market to help lower income elderly people.
Now is the time to think differently. Its time for Tri-Faiths bold idea. Never has healing divisions and building cross-cultural relationships been more urgently needed, in this time of deep division and upheaval. We believe religious differences are an asset and strength to be celebrated. Through Tri-Faith, people overcome fear and stereotypes, making room to shift perceptions and beliefs. Every Tri-Faith activity and program sets the stage for understanding and embracing the other, transforming our communities through relationships.

In this time, Tri-Faiths voice rejects religious bigotry in all forms and responds to this exceptional moment for our culture, providing a wide variety of ways to learn about the embrace of religious diversity. The reality, especially during divisive times like these: Though Judaism and Islam combined only make up about 3% of the U.S. population, nearly 80% of hate crimes with religious bias target Jews and Muslims. We believe: No one should fear for their safety because of the color of their skin, what language they speak, or how they pray. Tri-Faith fights for religious freedom in the face of scapegoating and fear, while making spaces for meaningful connection across differences.
The Bill of Rights offers vital protections to Americans. That set of amendments to the U.S. Constitution guarantees multiple liberties of individuals by walling off peoples private actions from government interference. Although our society needs a responsibly empowered government, its just as important to limit governments authority to encroach into peoples private lives.

The new anti-abortion law in Texas raises major concern in this regard because it empowers  and, indeed, incentivizes  people to enforce the law by suing anyone involved in an abortion other than the patient. The law prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity, usually at about six weeks and before many women know that theyre pregnant. Under the law, anyone who successfully sues another person would be entitled to at least $10,000.

Nebraskans have differing, deeply held views on abortion, but on the question of safeguarding personal liberty, everyone should be in agreement that government  whether acting directly as the agent or empowering private citizens for enforcement  must tread carefully. After all, Texas lawmakers made citizens the enforcement apparatus because assigning that power to the state would have run afoul of court precedents and the law would likely have been ruled unconstitutional.
NEW YORK (AP)  A former nurse who co-founded and once ran the cult-like NXIVM group, where prosecutors say some women were brainwashed, branded like animals and coerced into sex, was sentenced Wednesday to 42 months in prison but won't be locked up until January.

Nancy Salzman, the former president and co-founder of NXIVM, must also pay a $150,000 fine, U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis said. She has agreed to forfeit more than $500,000 in cash, several properties and a Steinway grand piano.

Salzman must report to prison by Jan. 19, Garaufis said. Her lawyers said she has been caring for her ailing mother.

Speaking in Brooklyn federal court, Salzman, 67, said she fell under NXIVM leader Keith Raniere's spell when they started working together 20 years ago and that she started rationalizing and overlooking the wrongdoing she saw around her. She offered an apology to everyone she's hurt.

I dont know that I can ever forgive myself, she said.

Salzman, known within the Albany-based group as Prefect," pleaded guilty in March 2019 to charges of racketeering conspiracy that involved conspiracy to commit identity theft and conspiracy to obstruct justice. She was one of the first in the group's leadership to plead guilty to criminal charges.

At that time, a tearful Salzman said she got mixed up with Raniere, a self-professed spiritual leader, because she wanted to help people improve their lives but that she ended up losing her way by helping spy on perceived enemies who sought to expose the group as a cross between a pyramid scheme and a cult.

At Salzman's sentencing, Garaufis said she had positioned herself alongside Raniere atop the NXIVM pyramid and left trauma and destruction in her wake.

In her misguided loyalty and blind allegiance to Keith Raniere, the defendant engaged in a racketeering conspiracy designed to intimidate NXIVMs detractors and that inflicted harm on NXIVMs members, Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis said in a statement after Salzman's sentencing.

Bronfman was sentenced a year ago to nearly seven years in prison. Mack was sentenced in June to three years in prison. Salzmans daughter, Lauren Salzman, was sentenced in July to five years of probation and ordered to perform 300 hours of community service for her role in the group.

Nancy Salzman's crimes involved stealing identities of the groups critics and hacking into their email accounts from 2003 to 2008, prosecutors said. She was also accused of conspiring to doctor videos showing her teaching NXIVM lessons before the recordings were turned over to plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the group.

An NXIVM bio of Salzman posted on the internet said she was a consultant to New York state and major corporations until she met Keith Raniere and discovered an approach to personal growth that yielded powerful and permanent results.

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

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CLINTON  Fourteen of 15 building permits for the DeWitt County wind farm that were contested in a lawsuit were issued the same day a judge gave the zoning administrator three days to decide to issue or deny them.

Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Jason Bohm said the DeWitt County Board lacked the legal authority to stop the issuance of building permits because a county board has no power to suspend, even temporarily, their own ordinances.

The DeWitt County Board narrowly voted July 22 to stop issuing building permits for the countys first wind farm until Alta Farms parent company Enel Green Power could show to the board its permission to comply with curtailing the wind turbines during severe weather.

Alta Farms filed a mandamus lawsuit nearly three weeks later against DeWitt County and DeWitt County Zoning Administrator Dee Dee Rentmeister demanding 15 building permits.

Rentmeister told The Pantagraph Thursday that 14 of the 15 permits were issued late Wednesday afternoon, the same day Bohm rendered his decision.

She said the last building permit of the 15 named in the lawsuit should be issued before the judges Sept. 13 deadline, but that shes waiting for a review letter from our engineering firm that we hired to help us with the process.

In an affidavit, Rentmeister said she had not issued permits solely because of the county boards July 22 vote.

Five additional building permits are expected to be issued soon, she said, but those also are pending review from the countys engineering firm.

DeWitt County Board Chairman Terry Ferguson, who voted against the temporary halt of issuing building permits, said he was not surprised by the decision.

That was the decision I was expecting, Ferguson said. The county board took an action that was against the advice of the states attorney and we just got to live with the outcome now.

The judge wrote that the DeWitt County Zoning ordinances require the zoning administrator to review applications and issue or deny them. He said Alta Farms complied with the permit applications and fees.

The only question in this case is whether the County Board has the authority to prohibit, as they did on July 22, 2021, the Zoning Administrator from issuing building permits. The answer to that question is no, Bohm wrote, citing case law which affirmed that existing ordinances cant be modified by a resolution or motion.

The 200-megawatt wind farm, approved on a 6-5 vote by the DeWitt County Board in July 2020, will consist of 66 turbines in three northwestern townships near Waynesville and Wapella.

Thirty building permits had been issued prior to Alta Farms filing the lawsuit, meaning 44 permits have been issued so far with six more likely to be issued within days.

Chicago lawyer James Griffin, who represented Alta Farms in the lawsuit, could not be immediately reached for comment.

Contact Kade Heather at 309-820-3256. Follow him on Twitter: @kadeheather

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Plugging in newly available 2020 data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Illinois lawmakers approved an amended state legislative redistricting map last week.

It passed over the strenuous objections of Republicans and good government groups, who decried the process employed by majority Democrats.

Republicans and groups like the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund have sued to have it thrown out  and may even have a good case.

But, if the maps do stand up in court, as Democrat-drawn maps have the past couple redistricting cycles, their impact will be felt for the next decade.

To get a better idea of what this map means for representation in Springfield, I spoke with Frank Calabrese, a political consultant who has become the unofficial mapmaker and go-to Illinois redistricting expert this cycle.

Below is a transcription of our conversation, edited lightly for length and clarity:

LEE ENTERPRISES: Give the 40,000-foot view of these new legislative maps. What were the key takeaways and what does it mean for the next decade of legislative elections?

FRANK CALABRESE: The big picture view is this really solidifies Springfield under Democratic control. It's a very aggressive map. Also, it's made to create chaos within the Republican caucus. So, you see all these Republicans having to run against other Republicans.

There's 45 House Republicans. And of that 45, there are seven pairings, so there's 14 members that are affected by this ... So, just imagine that a third of your caucus is going to have to make a decision whether or not they're going to run against another member. That creates a lot of internal chaos.

It's a great map for the Democrats. They're going to be in power with the supermajority for the next 10 years. It would take an extreme realignment nationally to change that.

LEE: Is this map merely about maintaining Democratic majorities or are there opportunities for the party to expand their majorities? If so, whats a realistic number?

CALABRESE: Toward the end of the decade, I think the Democrats will realistically pick up 80 seats (in the House), so a net gain of seven. But that's kind of long term. I think initially, they'll pick up four in the next election. In the Senate, I have them losing seats.

In the House, there's two open seats right now that are Democratic: it's that Bloomington-Normal seat that goes to Bartonville and near Peoria. That's probably a Democratic pickup.

And then you have a seat in the northwest suburbs ... which is parts of Palatine and Arlington Heights. That's pretty Democratic now. Ten or 20 years ago, that used to be very Republican, but a lot of well-educated areas have really swung Democratic because of Trump.

The Republican Party, they're still embracing Trump. And what that means is that Republicans are going to do well in the rural areas and they're going to do bad in suburban areas.

And then you have (Republican Rep. Mark Batinicks) district, which is like Plainfield. It has gotten significantly more Democratic. He could win in the midterm  it's probably going to be a Republican midterm. So that's one of those seats where he could win in 2022, but he'll probably lose in 2024 and in the future with these trends becoming worse and the suburbs getting more and more Democratic. And the same thing with Keith Wheeler. He could win  I would call it a toss up in his district.

It's really unlikely that Mark Batinick and Keith Wheeler are going to be there for 10 years. They could be there for two years, but much longer than that, I think it's going to be tough.

The other pickup (opportunity is state Rep. Jackie Haas' Kankakee-based district). Her district was a rural white district that had some labor influence, which kind of made it a swing district. Now her district's a quarter Black. They put a lot of the Black population of Kankakee in her district. And so Haas' district, it's a tossup. It was basically 50/50 between Trump and Biden, but it's trending Democratic. She could win in that district in the midterm, but in the future, I think that's a Democratic pickup.

LEE: The maps passed in May, but lawmakers had to go back in August to tweak them. Why was this necessary?

CALABRESE: One of my critiques of the Democrats' map is that they made a map for 2019. And the problem is you're supposed to redistrict for 2020, right? So to no surprise, areas that are shrinking in population, they lost more population. And areas that are growing, especially areas that are growing rapidly, they gained a lot more.

I live in Chicago, and if you build a high-rise and 5,000 people move in, that can happen in a year. So that's what happened  the downtown area grew and that wasn't incorporated in the 2019 data. So Lamont Robinson's district was 15% over the mean, (which) is about 108,000 per House district.

What they should have done is they should have made those districts smaller in population anticipating future growth. They should have built the trends into their map.

And now the Republicans have an argument saying that the map that they passed in May is void and they're going to go to court saying that it was a bad map in May, they just can't pass whatever to avoid a (redistricting) commission. They're going to go to court and it adds a degree to uncertainty of whether this map can stand.

This concept of being void from the beginning is very strong in Illinois. So if the Republicans can convince a state court that this map had problems from the beginning, then there is a legal doctrine in Illinois to kind of throw the whole thing out from the beginning.

In my opinion, this is not a 100% Democratic map yet because they still have a lot of legal obstacles.

Also, I'm really surprised that the Democrats didn't do anything with Latino districts. The Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund, I think, has a meritorious lawsuit.

And they didn't work with these Latino districts at all. You can actually argue that these Latino districts got worse with the revision. So, that's something that they're going to have to litigate in court. And, if I was the Speaker or the Senate President, I would want to avoid that. So I'm a little puzzled why they didn't try to appease a lot of the concerns from these Latino interest groups.

LEE: Expand upon how some of these various communities of interests did in this map. The phrase that the Democrats have used repeatedly is that the map is "a model for the nation" when it comes to diversity. Does this map, especially given some of the legal challenges from some of these Latino groups, stand up to that billing?

CALABRESE: The Democrats ... spoke about that in May, but I have not really heard that from them recently because I think there's an acknowledgement that this is not about increasing community representation of certain interest groups.

So this map helps Black representation as much as you can, but that's kind of almost a byproduct of helping out Democratic incumbents.

The Arab and Palestinian community, they presented their own version of a map, they attended every legislative hearing that I observed, and they got absolutely nothing. Their community, which is based in the southwest suburbs of Cook County, was divided in the four Democratic House seats. And there's really no way for the Palestinian community to elect one of their own  They wanted an influence district and they didn't get it.

The reason is because these districts were made to preserve the incumbents. That's first and foremost  protecting and enabling Democratic incumbents, and that comes at the expense of a lot of these other minority groups that were advocating for their own districts.

Also, the Orthodox Jewish community, they were advocating for a district that included their community. By and large, they got some of what they wanted, but their community still split among three districts on the far North Side of Chicago.

So I think it's very hard to market this as a model for the nation. What it is is a very good map for political power, and I'm impressed with some of the districts they put together in terms of maintaining power in Springfield. And, at the end of the day, that's what matters for the people that drew these maps.

LEE: Were there any trends you noticed in the drawing of downstate districts?

CALABRESE: So downstate, there was a lot of aggressive packing of Republican incumbents with each other. And then there were some crafty drawing with Bloomington-Normal to make that a Democratic district.

I think Democrats left some on the table, per se, with how they drew Champaign-Urbana. So state Rep. Carol Ammons' district is like 80% Democratic, something crazy. A Republican wouldn't have a prayer winning that district. So Carol Ammons' district is super Democratic, but then there's a Republican district in Danville with Mike Marron in there which is like a 51% Biden district, which means (Marron) win at the local level.

So, the Democrats could have made Carol Ammons' district less Democratic and given those Democrats to the Danville district. They didn't do that. I thought that was kind of odd.

Another significant change is Rock Island  that Senate seat is changing drastically, so it goes all the way down to Macomb. It takes in a lot of college towns. So, I think the Democrats are really crafty to change the Rock Island Senate seat ... I think that's going to be a pretty easy Democratic pickup.

The Democrats tried to make a far southern Illinois district more competitive  the 118th. They combined Cairo with Carbondale with Marion. That district voted for Trump twice, but also voted for JB Pritzker, I believe. So it's one of those districts that will be competitive in a Democratic year.

LEE: During the last remap, there were still Democrats like Brandon Phelps and Gary Forby that represented some really rural, conservative areas. Whether through retirement or losing reelection, these members have gone away. How has this political realignment impacted the way Democrats drew the map?

CALABRESE: The most rural Democratic district right now is probably (state Rep. Lance Yednock's district), and they acknowledge that he's in trouble and they redistricted him to include DeKalb. And so now it's a bunch of union guys and a bunch of college kids.

So you're not going to see rural Democrats anytime soon, in my opinion. And I think the Democrats kind of gave up on them. But they did try to make the 118th competitive  JB Pritzker did win that district. But again, that district is not Democratic because of a bunch of rural farmers who want to vote Democratic, it's Democratic because there's a significant Black population in Cairo and there's a lot of college kids in Carbondale. It's not the Democratic district of Paul Simon and Glen Poshard. Trump really took that out.

And in the suburbs, Lake County, I remember that being a very Republican County. And now, Republicans are really on the retreat. There's Republican areas in Lake County, but there's no countywide Republican officeholders, I believe. DuPage County has one now. But both Lake County and DuPage County, the county boards are Democratic.

So, yeah, there's this realignment. I think the new map reflects that. I'm of the opinion that Republicans can still make up areas in the suburbs. But when it comes to rural areas, I just think Democrats are are largely extinguished. I don't really see that coming back. I just think the cultural divides' too high.

LEE: So an example of this would be the Springfield-Decatur Senate seat, formerly represented by Andy Manar and now by Doris Turner. The new map cuts out rural Macoupin and Montgomery counties and adds more urban parts of Springfield.

CALABRESE: Right. So Manar's district, I get a lot of grief actually from Democrats when I say Manar's district is a likely Republican pickup.

From my experience, appointed incumbents don't do anything for an incumbent advantage. And that district significantly voted for the Republicans in every significant election. So that's going to be a really tough race for Doris Turner. And they tried to help her out. They gave her every urban precinct that she possibly could get, but it's going to be an uphill, uphill battle.

LEE: So, despite being a challenging map, Republicans have some pickup opportunities.

CALABRESE: I think that the Republicans can pick up a DuPage County seat. I think they can pick up Doris Turner's seat and the Metro East district, which is represented by Rochelle Crowe, that voted for Trump twice. It also voted for Erica Harold. It did vote for JB Pritzker, they have a very strong union influence there.

So I think that district is going to be really dependent upon if Crowe runs for reelection. She's on the shortlist to be U.S. Attorney. So if she does get appointed U.S. attorney, I believe that's a very good opportunity for Republican pickup in the Senate.

Republicans, I think, could pick up seats in the Senate just because Democrats are overextended, I mean it's really crazy. They have 41 seats in the Senate. As a translation, that would be 82 seats in the House, where Democrats have 73.

LEE: Any parting thoughts?

CALABRESE: Overall, I would give the map high marks on maintaining Democratic power in Springfield, which obviously was  in my opinion  one of their highest priorities.

If I was to draw this map with the goal of solidifying a Democratic supermajority, this is the map I would draw. If I was to draw a map to help every community of interest that wanted help, this is not the map.

Brenden Moore is the Illinois state government reporter for Lee Enterprises.

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When Chatrivia Kennedy was summoned to her doctors office for the results of a blood test at eight months pregnant with her second child, she prepared herself for the news.

Less than two weeks earlier, the then 24-year-olds partner was diagnosed with pneumocystis pneumonia, a condition that strikes those with a compromised immune system. Kennedys partners doctor contacted her at his request, she said, and told her she should get tested for HIV. She immediately did.

When I walked into the room and saw my midwife, doctor and a counselor, I already knew I had it, she recalled. She was asked if she had any concerns after being told she was HIV positive.

So youre telling me I cant have any more children? Kennedy remembered blurting out. The doctor told me it was the first time someone asked that question after hearing they were HIV positive.

Kennedy has since had two more children and a grandson, all of whom are HIV negative thanks to adhering to prenatal preventative treatment during her last three pregnancies, she said.

All that mattered was I had to protect the baby I was carrying, she said. I didnt have time to worry about myself.

Her viral load was very low when she gave birth to her last three children, so she was able to have vaginal births, she said. Transmission rates from mother to child are relatively low at 1%, if the mother takes medical precautions.

The Chicago mother of four, who hid her HIV status for 14 years because of the stigma attached to it, is using her story to help raise awareness of HIV. She is an author and an advocate for those who struggle with HIV or abuse.

The West Side native who now lives in Roseland said she spent more than a decade studying scriptures from her childhood to gain the courage to break her silence. Concerned with how her children might feel, she let them know her plans.

One of my daughters said if disclosing your status helps someone, we are for you telling people, she recalled. The morning of World Aids Day 2018, Kennedy posted on Youtube she was HIV positive.

Her family and her co-workers at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she worked as a certified nursing assistant, embraced her and remain her biggest support system, she said.

HIV stigma is still rooted in fear because of images that appeared in the early 1980s of people dying of AIDS-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New treatments help HIV patients reach a stage where it is undetectable and unable to infect others, and help patients live longer and healthier lives. But health officials say stigma and transmission of HIV are still issues, particularly in the Black community.

HIV-infection rates in Chicago were highest among Black gay men in 2019, according to Cynthia Tucker, AIDS Foundation Chicago vice president of Prevention and Community Partnerships. Tucker said shes seen an increase in infection rates among Black women and Black trans women in health care settings that provide HIV treatment. In response, the organization has recently geared up to address infection and transmission rates, Tucker said.

The Elevate project targets Black women and trans women living with HIV/AIDS to line them up with employment and mental health services. A task force concentrates on educating providers and doctors on speaking to patients about medications such as PrEP to keep partners negative and ultimately slow down transmission rates in communities.

The goal is to identify cases, address mental needs, help them secure and keep employment and place them under health care management, Tucker said.

Undetectable means untransmittable, Tucker pointed out.

Many women dont know they, too, can take PrEP because they view it as a male product, therefore, the conversation is not had, Tucker explained.

Though advertisements mention PrEP has not been studied in cisgendered persons assigned female at birth, Tucker said other studies in Africa have shown the product does work in women.

A big part in lowering rates of transmission in Black women and trans women is making sure they find and stay in care. Out of 81.5% of newly diagnosed HIV cases, only 41% have stayed under a doctors care, Tucker said.

Kennedy has been on HIV meds for about four years. Her HIV is undetectable as of July, she said, and recent lab work from the Howard Brown Health Center confirmed that.

If it wasnt for God, I wouldnt be here, Kennedy said. Sometimes our story is for someone else. If you tell your story, you can prevent someone from dying. My story is my gift, and God said your gift will make room for you.

After disclosing her status on social media, Kennedy started self-publishing books starting with Hope in Silence, a compilation of scriptures that helped her get through having HIV.

She has written 11 books addressing the dangers of sharing your body freely with individuals who have not been honest or are unaware of their status. Her books are available on Amazon. She also posts weekly on her YouTube channel The Tea About HIV, used to educate others about the virus, and is planning to start a foundation committed to stopping HIV transmission in the Black community.

Kennedy hopes her ordeal of finding out she was HIV positive in the last trimester of her pregnancy will shed light on the importance of HIV testing, she said.

She said attending her first HIV/AIDS conference in September 2019, in Washington, cemented one of Gods promises stated in Proverbs 18:16: A mans gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

I was in the same room with powerful women who did not let HIV overcome them and were helping others, Kennedy said. Its only the beginning for me. I will make a change in my community. My life is so good now. I sometimes forget I am HIV positive.

Kennedy just celebrated her 40th birthday and said she is ready for a new chapter of her life to begin.

I will be announcing a book signing for my latest book, which is a journal of my life with a few pieces from my children to show how they feel, Kennedy said. Its all up from here. We are blessed.

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ST. CHARLES, Mo.  Thousands of people lined highways, streets and overpasses along westbound Interstate 70 on Wednesday afternoon as more than 800 motorcycles and dozens of law enforcement agencies escorted Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz home to St. Charles County.

Schmitz, a 20-year-old Marine and Wentzville, Missouri, native, was one of the 13 U.S. service members killed late last month in a suicide bombing at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, while working to evacuate U.S. citizens and Afghan refugees as part of the military withdrawal by the U.S. from that country. All 13 have been awarded Purple Hearts.

His remains arrived at St. Louis Lambert International Airport around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, met by his family, law enforcement and the motorcycles of the Patriot Guard. The procession traveled a dozen miles west on Interstate 70 to Baue Funeral Home in St. Charles.

Among those waiting at the overpass near Convention Center Boulevard in St. Charles was a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Jesse Strickland, of Lake Saint Louis.

Strickland, who gathered with a group of veterans committee members from UAW Local 2250, said he personally knew the toll of the 20-year conflict.

I lost a few friends over there, and I know how hard it is for some people, he said.

Strickland served in the Army infantry in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2013. He noted that Schmitz had barely been born when the war started, in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001.

This young man, his whole life happened around the war, he said. Im glad theyre honoring him the way they should.

The community has rallied behind the Schmitz family in recent weeks, raising tens of thousands of dollars for a memorial fund through online and in-person fundraisers, hosting flag cruises and rallies, and posting billboards and memorials to honor Schmitz.

Senior class officers at Fort Zumwalt South High School created a fundraiser using T-shirts to honor Schmitz, a 2019 graduate. As of Wednesday morning, 2,200 shirts had been sold, said class president Libby Bishop. All proceeds will go to the memorial fund.

Some students left school early to attend the procession.

Fort Zumwalt East junior Michael Holland was standing with sophomores Aiden Wheeler and Jackson Carter near the Cave Springs Road overpass with flags.

Holland said the students wanted to pay their respects.

This young guy went to fight for us, he said.

Farther down the street, 46-year-old Marine veteran Ivan Gamez reflected on his journey in the military, making peacetime deployments before joining the reserves after 9/11 and being sent to Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq.

He said it was amazing that young people like Schmitz volunteered to serve without even witnessing tragic events like Sept. 11. He said he was thrilled to see so many people turn out.

"I think it's awesome," he said. "The entire area came out to honor him."

When the procession finally arrived at the Cave Springs exit around 2:30 p.m., a hushed crowd watched the motorcycles rumble past.

Many people saluted when Schmitz's flag-draped casket appeared about 10 minutes later.

Leading the procession was St. Louis Patriot Guard ride leader Jeff Hirsch, who said it was "extremely emotional" to see all of the people gathered to honor Schmitz.

"I had tears rolling down my cheeks," he said. "When you see that kind of support and love and patriotism, it is just incredible."

Schmitz's father told the Post-Dispatch last month that his son was an "amazing young man with a big future that's now been cut short."

He said his son had decided to become a Marine when he was a freshman or sophomore in high school and worked tirelessly to achieve his goal.

"Never seen him more focused on one thing in his entire life than training to be the best Marine he could be," Mark Schmitz said.

A public visitation will begin at 3 p.m. Saturday at Baue Funeral Home, 3950 West Clay Street, St. Charles.

A funeral procession to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery is to start about 12:45 p.m. Sept. 16. Schmitz will be buried with a private service and full military honors later that afternoon, according to a memorial fund page.

Austin Huguelet of the Post-Dispatch contributed to this report.

Katie Kull  314-340-8087 @KatieKull1 on Twitter kkull@post-dispatch.com

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When it comes to how he feels about big tech, Jeff Bartos didnt mince his words.

From shadow-banning conservatives, censoring content online, biased fact-checking, and now funneling millions of dollars into our elections its become clearer than ever: Big Tech must be reined in, Bartos, a Republican candidate for U.S. Senate from Pennsylvania, wrote on Twitter on July 1.

But even as the suburban Philadelphia businessman parroted a popular Republican talking point, he and his wife also were enjoying the financial benefits that come with investing in such big tech titans as Alphabet Inc., which owns Google, and Apple.

Financial disclosure forms that Bartos filed with the U.S. Senate as a requirement for his bid for the GOP nomination in 2022, show that he and his wife jointly and individually hold hundreds of thousands of dollars in stock in the Silicon Valley giants.

Bartos isnt alone. Disclosure forms filed by Val Arkoosh, whos Bartos neighbor in heavily Democratic Montgomery County, whos also running, similarly show individual and joint investments in Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft that run to the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Arkoosh also serves on Montgomery Countys Board of Commissioners.

As they head into the thick of one of the most closely watched U.S. Senate contests in the country, the filings underline the tightrope that the hopefuls walk as they talk tough on the outsized influence of big tech, but also see their wealth enlarged by their sizable investments.

Both are part of a large field of Republican and Democratic candidates vying to replace Republican Sen. Pat Toomey, who is retiring in 2022.

In a wide-ranging interview, Bartos kept up his drumbeat of criticism, even as he defended his investments.

If anything, it proves Im not afraid to state my convictions, even if its against my financial interests, he said. I can advocate for policies that I think are right. As a shareholder, who owns stock, I believe that the company needs to change for the better. He added that its the responsibility, and the duty of shareholders to lodge such criticisms.

Bartos, who accused social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook of behaving like Democratic super PACs for what he believes are unreasonable restraints on speech by conservatives, says hed support looking at anti-trust action if these companies dont take a hard look at what theyre doing and change their policies.

Its a familiar grievance. Republican state lawmakers across the country, including Pennsylvania, began pushing legislation that would punish social media companies for policing content on their websites, the Associated Press reported.

The efforts began surfacing not long after former President Donald Trump was banished from Twitter and Facebook for spreading baseless claims of election fraud on the platforms.

Arkoosh, whose campaign declined an interview request, said through a spokesperson that she believes members of Congress owning or trading stocks is a conflict of interest.

Arkoosh supports legislation to bar members of Congress from owning and trading stocks, and if elected, would put her eligible assets into a blind trust. the spokesperson, Rachel Petri, said in an emailed statement.

And while theyre on opposite sides of the aisle, Arkooshs and Bartos respective criticisms of Big Tech mirror national trends that have Republicans and Democrats uniting on an issue at a time where bipartisan agreement on most issues is elusive at best and impossible at worst.

In June, for instance, a bipartisan cadre of lawmakers on Capitol Hill rolled out a package of antitrust bills. That spirit of bipartisanship has not prevented the issue from being politicized in Pennsylvania or elsewhere.

In a statement, Brad Bainum, a spokesman for the progressive super PAC American Bridge, said it was classic politician behavior for anti-Big Tech Jeff Bartos to own hundreds of thousands in tech company stocks.

If he somehow manages to get out of this messy GOP primary, its clear Bartos cant be trusted to represent Pennsylvania families in Washington, Bainum said.

But with most Americans harboring the same skepticism, even as they, too, pad their retirement portfolios with Big Tech stocks, one veteran observer said he doubts the average voter will share in that outrage.

Even though you own stock in Alphabet, you can still say Google should be reined in because its anti-competitive, Republican consultant Christopher Nicholas said. Or theres Amazon, which is on both sides of the equation. (Political journalists) will notice, but Mr. and Mrs. Pennsylvania will not be overly concerned about it.

That appears to be what Bartos is banking on as he heads into a competitive campaign season.

The reality is that as (voters) parse through stuff, (they will) understand it through the lens of common sense, he said.

John L. Micek is editor-in-chief of The Pennsylvania Capital-Star in Harrisburg, Pa.

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Many years ago, one of my sons came to me, excited about a promotional offer from some bank. I no longer remember the offer or the bank, but I do remember telling him not to fall for it; I had accepted a similar offer years before, and it cost me several of my favorite limbs and the shirt off my back. If a thing sounds too good to be true, I advised, it probably is.

Long story short, he signs up anyway. A couple years later, he tells me his decision has, yes, cost him several of his favorite limbs and the shirt off his back. You were right, he says, ruefully. We were driving at the time, and I swear, I almost went off the road. Because, of course I was right. There was never a question that I was right. So why couldnt he have just listened to me and saved himself some grief?

Ive always taken it as illustration of an enduring paradox. Namely, that experience is a thing of extraordinary value and often exorbitant price. And yet, when you try to give it away, to hand it over to someone else free of charge, they frequently refuse to accept it.

Thats frustrating when youre dealing with financial matters. It is beyond frustrating when youre dealing with life and death. And here Im thinking of Philip Valentine, whose funeral is this weekend. He was a conservative radio host and vaccine skeptic in Nashville who recently died of COVID-19. Not that I was personally touched by his death; Id never even heard of him before he was hospitalized.

But he has become the latest symbol of this eras defining cliche: the COVID-19 denier or vaccine holdout who ends up dying an excruciating death and wishing he had not refused to accept the benefit of other peoples experience. Not to pick on Valentine. He is not the first and, sadly, probably will not be the last. But again, he is the latest on a list that is growing long.

California church member Stephen Harmon scoffed at trusting Dr. Anthony Fauci over the Bible. He died of COVID-19.

Las Vegas dad Michael Freedy declined the vaccine because he was scared of side effects. He died of COVID-19.

Texas GOP official H. Scott Apley posted a meme mocking the virus. He died of COVID-19.

West Palm Beach radio host Dick Farrel claimed COVID-19 was overblown. He died of COVID-19.

Texas piano teacher Lydia Rodriguez thought she didnt need a vaccine. She died of COVID-19.

Now theres Valentine. He said his chances of dying from COVID-19 were vanishingly small. He died of COVID-19 on Aug. 21.

And the galling irony is that people who would not accept the proffered gift of someone elses experience often die asking other people to accept the gift of theirs. Or as a July Facebook post from Valentines family put it, he regrets not being more vehemently Pro-Vaccine and looks forward to being able to more vigorously advocate that position as soon as he is back on the air.

Which he never was.

We may be thankful that government and businesses have begun adopting more coercive measures toward vaccine holdouts  Delta Airlines has hit unvaccinated employees with a $200 monthly surcharge on their healthcare premiums, while the military is making vaccinations mandatory  but it is to our everlasting shame that such extremes are even necessary.

Where COVID-19 is concerned, experience is a priceless commodity that has already been purchased for us in bulk at ruinous prices and is being given away for free. Yet some people will not accept the gift.

They insist on buying their own.

Leonard Pitts Jr. is a columnist for the Miami Herald.

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Director-General of State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA), Stephen Asamoah Boateng has reproached some of the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and other Heads of State Entities who failed to attend a consultative workshop at the Labadi Beach Hotel.



The SIGA organised stakeholders consultative workshop on draft code of corporate governance with the theme strengthening good corporate governance practices in specified entities for national development, aims to assemble CEOs, Board Chairs and other stakeholders to deliberate on the draft code for adoption.



Expressing his disappointment over the low turnout for the consultative workshop by the CEOs of state entities, Mr. Asamoah Boateng charged them to be time conscious and discipline towards work.



I want to say this, those who have not been with us today although they were invited, I am sort of disappointed because this is such a crucial document which will impact on your entities and your lives as a CEO, as a board member, as a board chair. Invitations went out and my team has been calling and here we are, about just half, he chided.



My concern is that I have been around for so long in Ghana politics and in the economy so much that, one of the things that we fail to acknowledge is time management and discipline of work. We have been entrusted to do a job, just put our brains, attention and commitment to it and do it and if you cannot do it, ask permission and leave the seat. Somebody is prepared to do the job, he rebuked.



He made it known that the draft code of corporate governance which is up for discussion is very important for all the Chief Executive Officers of the State Entities to show commitment and seriousness.



"If we take our job seriously and attend to these matters in a disciplined manner, we will not be surprised with document and workshops which is impacting on the job we do, because the failure to abide by the code when it is finished, there are sanctions that will go to the extent of even removal from office or even the dissolution of the board if we apply it properly. There are consequences and there are even sanctions that affect your remunerations, he cautioned.



He posited that the State Interests and Governance Authority (SIGA) which was inaugurated by President Akufo-Addo with a 9-member board is not an ordinary organisation; thus, he is resolved to change the old status quo of the establishment for a positive one.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









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A 43-year-old unemployed man who defiled his eight-year-old step daughter at Ofankor, a suburb of Accra, has been sentenced to 20 years imprisonment in hard labour by an Accra Circuit Court.



Kwaw Emerleh Agovi charged with defilement pleaded not guilty.



The court presided over by Mrs. Christina Cann at the end of the trial, however found Agovi guilty and sentenced him accordingly.



The court in sentencing Agovi, said it took into consideration the seriousness of the offence, its prevalence, revulsion felt by the law and age of the victim.



According to the court, it also considered the relationship between the victim and the accused and the trauma that the victim was going through.



Prosecuting Chief Inspector Kofi Atimbire said the complainant aged 18 years is the biological daughter of the Agovi, now convict.



Chief Inspector Atimbire said the complainant, victim and Agovi reside in a three-bed room self-contained apartment.



According to prosecution, the complainant and the victim had their respective rooms and mother of the victim and Agovi also had their room.



According to prosecution, Agovi has been sneaking into the victims room whenever she (victim) was alone in her room and Agovi also had sex with the victim.



Prosecution said the sexual act, became unbearable for the victim.



On April 24, this year, at about 5:00am, Prosecution said the complainant saw the victim crying and she enquired from her.



Chief Inspector Atimbire said the victim confided in the complainant and informed her that Agovi had been having sexual intercourse with her.



Prosecution said the complainant consoled her and decided to monitor Agovi her father to ascertain the truth or otherwise.



According to prosecution, the complainant noticed that her father had been sneaking into the victims room at night.



On April 29, this year, Prosecution said at about 12:00 midnight, Agovi as usual entered the victims room, undressed himself and the victim and the complainant barged into the room and caught Agovi in the act.



Chief Inspector Atimbire said Agovi threatened to kill the complainant if she dared inform anyone or reported to the Police.



Prosecution said for fear of her life, the complainant left home and on May 12, this year, she reported the incident to the Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit of the Ghana Police Service at Tesano and Agovi was picked up.



Prosecution said following the issuance of a medical report form, the victim was examined medically and a report was submitted on her.

Source: GNA









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The Headmaster of Jachie Pramso Senior High School in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti Region, Mr Francis Donkor has been interdicted pending investigations into the alleged brutalisation of a female student.



The Ghana Education Service (GES) in a Facebook post on Wednesday, September 8, 20201 has directed the headmaster to hand over the administration and management of the school to the Ashanti Regional Director of Education.



Pictures of the female student spotting bloodied cane marks on her bare back went viral on social media on Tuesday, September 7, 2021.



Background



The victim, a 19-year old is a final year General Arts student.



According to sources, the headmaster subjected the student to several lashes of the cane for giving her jacket to a male colleague who had been penalised.





Source: graphiconline.com









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Guinea has been suspended from the West African regional bloc Ecowas following the coup that overthrew President Alpha Conde on Sunday, Burkina Faso's Foreign Minister Alpha Barry has said.



The bloc also demanded Mr Conde's release from custody, he added.



Leaders of the 15-nation bloc held a virtual meeting to discuss the coup waged by elite troops led by the 41-year-old Col Mamady Doumbouya.



He accused Mr Conde, 83, of rampant corruption and human rights abuses.



The deposed president's whereabouts are unclear, although the coup leaders have said he is safe.



Guinea is one of the world's biggest producers of bauxite, the raw material for aluminium, and prices have leapt to a 13-year-high following the coup.



The junta released about 80 political prisoners who had been detained during Mr Conde's rule. Around 400 people had been imprisoned during protests in 2020.



Many of those released were arrested last year during massive nationwide protests against Mr Conde's plan to stand for a third term.



The BBC's Alhassan Sillah in the capital, Conakry, says the most prominent of the freed prisoners was Oumar Sylla, known as Fonike Mengue, who went on hunger strike last December.



"I feel free, free, free, thank you to the people," said Ismael Conde, a member of the opposition UFDG party, and no relation to the former president.



He said his time in prison had been difficult, but he was now hoping for a better future for his country:

"It's a feeling you can't explain, to be deprived of your freedom for 12 months for such trivial things and to be released under these conditions, you can't explain," he said.

Source: BBC









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The Ghana Police Service has submitted data on about 18,000 convicts into an electronic police data exchange system aimed at combating transnational crime in West Africa.



The data, captured since 2016, have been inputted into the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) database for use by other agencies in Ghana and other West African countries.



Agencies such as the immigration service and other law enforcement organisations can rely on the system to check the background of persons and profile suspects.



The acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr George Akuffo Dampare, disclosed this in a speech read on his behalf by the Director-General of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, Commissioner of Police (COP) Isaac Ken Yeboah, at the opening of a WAPIS regional training programme in Accra yesterday.



The training on quality of data brought together selected law enforcement officials from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Nigeria and The Gambia.



WAPIS



The WAPIS programme is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by Interpol, with political and strategic support from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).



The programme is aimed at making a central, computerised system available to law enforcement services, pooling resources and allowing police information to be collected, organised and shared in real time.



Some of the transnational crimes WAPIS seeks to fight include arms smuggling, illicit drug trafficking, piracy, cybercrime, migrant smuggling, robberies, among other security challenges facing the West African sub-region.



Impact of WAPIS



Dr Akuffo Dampare said apart from helping its users to fight transnational crime, the WAPIS also serves as a tool for combating terrorism through enhanced police information management and sharing.



He pledged Ghana's commitment to the effective implementation of the WAPIS programme to help combat transnational organised crime.



In line with this, the acting IGP said the Minister for the Interior, Mr Ambrose Dery, in April this year signed a memorandum of understanding for the implementation of the programme as recommended by the fifth steering committee of ECOWAS.



Challenges



The Representative of ECOWAS in Ghana, Mr Baba Gana Wakil, said one of the main challenges in fighting transnational organised crime in West Africa had been the lack of appropriate infrastructure to collect, store, manage, analyse and share criminal data among the law enforcement agencies at national and regional levels.



To address some of the challenges, the ECOWAS Commission and Interpol, with funding from the European Union, launched WAPIS in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire in September 2012.



The programme, he said, continued to receive the buy-in of governments in member states and data collection and registration centres had been established in Benin, Ghana, Mali, Niger and Nigeria, with others in the offing.



However, Mr Wakil said implementation of the programme had not been smooth as it had been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, with its attendant travel restrictions.



Also, the absence of a standing budget in member states had affected the continuous operations of the WAPIS system after the implementation stage.



He, therefore, appealed to the EU to consider extending funding of the programme, which was expected to end in 2022, for at least 24 more months, to ensure its successful implementation in all the ECOWAS member states.



The Deputy Head of Interpol, Accra, Superintendent of Police, Mrs Naomi Acquah, said the West Africa region had been plagued with political instability, maritime-related crimes, proliferation of small arms and robberies in recent times.



This calls for the collection, analysis and dissemination of quality data to provide the needed quality data to assist law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties, she said.









Source: graphiconline.com









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About $16,000 (11,500) of counterfeit notes have been seized in Mozambique, with investigators suspecting that a regional syndicate is specialising in printing fake currency.



Police said they had arrested two Angolans, and arrest warrants for other suspects would be issued.



Mozambican, Angolan and South African nationals were suspected to be part of a currency-forging syndicate - though their attempts to forge Mozambique's metical had failed, police said.



The detained Angolans have denied any wrongdoing. One of them said he was a businessman who had entered Mozambique legally two months ago to look for business opportunities, and had no idea why he had been arrested.

Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The government will fully address the menace of accumulated waste in communities as part of its sanitation fight, Madam Cecelia Dapaah, Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources has said.



She said overflowing waste-dumping sites had long affected sanitation outcomes and land use, and that the Government had taken a drive towards total waste management.



The Minister was inspecting the construction of a multimillion cedis intergraded waste treatment facility in the Volta Region, a nationwide initiative which she said was born out of the Presidents vision to make Ghana a clean city.



She said the Ministry had taken on some of the oldest landfills in the country in an effort to reclaimed vast lands for farming.



Last year we had the initiative of evacuating mountains and mountains and mountains of waste. Some were a hundred years old, some were 60 years some were 50 years old. Am sure, that those who have benefited from this, if you check from your villages, you will realize, that they were indeed monuments of waste within the environment.



We realized that these were posing very serious challenges to the wealth and health of the people and we are lucky that very soon we are going to have a second phase of this project so that we can clear all these mountains from the environment. Because now the new model we are rolling out with the collaboration of the private sector, is to have the full chain of waste management, Madam Dapaah said.



The Minister reassured that Government facilitated private investments in the waste sector to help score the ultimate in Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH).



She said, the WASH sector is open for other entities and individuals to also invest. Others must take the risk and invest in the sector because your efforts will not be in vain.



Madam Dapaah said research and training centres that formed part of the integrated compost project, anticipating the enhancement in research and waste management.



The success of the model is a success of the whole Ghana in WASH, she stressed.



Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, CEO of Jospong Group of companies, which is partnering government on the integrated waste treatment project, thanked President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo for his confidence and support for the private sector.



He said the commitment of stakeholders including the sector minister, made possible the realization of the waste treatment facilities, which when completed, would help communities live in clean environments.



The Volta Integrated Waste Treatment Facility is a GHC15million complex being constructed to process among others, plastic, and medical waste, and is currently at about 65 percent complete.

Source: GNA









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The Fountain of Life Assemblies of God (FOLAG) in the Ga West Municipal Assembly of the Greater Accra region, has outlined activities to mark its 15th Anniversary in March 2021.

The anniversary Celebration activities include clean-up exercises, conferences, revival services, health screening, and departmental variety show.



Others are the commissioning of a bus stop shelter, musical rock show, departmental quiz competition, historical video presentations, and a get-together.



The 15th Anniversary of FOLAG, which is on the theme: Declare His FaithfulnessPsalm 89:1-2, will be marked from October 2021 to March 2022, and will be climaxed with a special Service.



The anniversary Worship Service will be celebrated in March 2022 under the leadership of the Head Pastor of the Church. Reverend Felix Kwaku Delali Demebu.



In a press release forwarded to Graphic Online on Tuesday, Rev Damebu said "From its inception, this Churchs priority has been sharing Gods Word, spreading the Good News and leading people to Jesus Christ and more importantly, demonstrating the power of God for liberation,.



Looking to the next 30 years, I pray that this Church fellowship will grow in leaps and bounds, continue to be compassionate and caring. It is my desire that it will become widely known as a safe haven where the hope of Jesus Christ is available for all nations, young and old, Rev. Demebu added.



The official launch of the Anniversary will come off on September 12, 2021, at the auditorium of the Church at Manhean Tigo Pole.



Background



Fountain of Life Assemblies of God was started on Sunday, March 25, 2007, with three adults and two children under four canopies on a plot of land close to its location at Manhean Tigo Pole.



But Rev. Demebu said the church currently has over 300 members.



He recalled that the first sermon was delivered by Reverend Anthony Amapah-Williams, who is currently the Head Pastor of Official Town Assemblies of God.



Rev Demebu, took over from the Pioneer Pastor of the Church, Reverend Collins L. Kodjoe.



At the time, Reverend Ampah-Williams shared the FOLAG pulpit with Student Pastor Collins Kodjoe.



That spanned over a period of nine months until Rev. Kodjoe graduated from the Bible College on December 15th, 2007, and was made the substantive Pastor of Fountain of Life Assemblies of God.



"In 2009, the Church moved from its under-the-canopy structure to an enclosed structure now being used by the Children Service. However, in 2017, the Church moved to its current building which is undergoing construction", Rev Damebu added.









Source: graphiconline.com









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The Agogo Traditional Council has introduced sweeping measures to curb expensive funerals in the traditional area.

Among the measures are a ban on the performance of widowhood rites and the use of beer and other drinks to serve mourners.



In addition, special cloths and T-shirts cannot be used at any funeral within the traditional area, while the age-old one-week observance of the passing of a person, which in recent years has seen massive spending by bereaved families and well-wishers, must only be a family gathering from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.



Council meeting



The reforms were arrived at during a meeting of the traditional council in Agogo in the Ashanti Region last Sunday.



The meeting, which was chaired by the Omanhene of the Agogo Traditional Area, Nana Kwame Akuoko Sarpong, evaluated a months piloting of the reforms and arrived at the conclusion that the reforms led to a drastic cut in the cost of funerals and, therefore, were worth scaling it up across the entire traditional area.



Speaking to the Daily Graphic, the Akyeamehene (Chief Linguist of the Omanhene), Nana Boakye Yiadom, explained that the council reached the conclusion that lavish spending had no place in the performance of funerals, especially in present times.



He said in order not to make the measures an imposition, the public was consulted, in addition to the one-month successful piloting.



Widowhood rites



Although widowhood rites have, over the years, undergone some considerable degree of reforms in the Agogo Traditional Area, and by extension the Ashanti Region, with the removal of several abuses, the financial cost involved in what remains of the old cultural practice is still unbearable to many.



It was against that background that the chief linguist said the traditional council moved to scrap the unproductive cultural practice.



With that development, asiede (burial items) and adekyer (parading various items, including expensive drinks) during final funeral rites have been removed from the performance of funerals in the traditional area.



Nana Yiadom said most of the time, the widow or the widower was left in debt, after hiring expensive drinks and other items just to show off at the funeral grounds.



It is unacceptable that many people defy their poverty to stage lavish funerals, and Nananom will no longer tolerate that, he said.



Water



On the abolition of drinks, Nana Yiadom said in their place, water would now be used to serve mourners at funeral grounds.



He explained that many a time, bereaved families spent so much on drinks, without recouping their expenses.



We are doing this because we want bereaved families to cut unnecessary spending on drinks, he said.



Special cloth & T-shirts





Other intolerable funeral costs, according to the traditional council, were incurred in the purchase of special funeral cloths and T-shirts.



Wearing special cloths and T-shirts for a funeral, in the estimation of the traditional council, had no place in current times and must be discarded.



Sanctions



The Akyeamehene said it was an offence for anybody to flout any of the new measures, and that offenders would be brought before the traditional council to answer for their acts.



He said with the education and the general acceptance, indications were that the people would support the council to ensure sanity in the system.









Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) Tema North District Office has cautioned residents against using third-parties or agents in accessing services the company offers.



Mrs. Tamara Asomanin-Wiafe, Tema North District Manager, addressing residents of Community 12 during a community engagement, said clients must desist from using third parties popularly known as goro boys.



Mrs Asomanin-Wiafe stated that; "Our doors are open, and we would want to encourage customers to please contact us directly for their services, and also in a bid to curb incidents where customers end up paying much more money than is required to self-styled agents".



She added that ECG staff were not supposed to demand payment for services such as meter installation and faults repairs, noting that Management of the Company had issued circulars cautioning staff against such acts.



She appealed to the customers to help the Company discharge better services to them by reporting such misconduct to the various district managers or the ECG Call Centre on 0302611611 for appropriate actions and sanctions to be taken against such recalcitrant staff members.



The Tema North ECG District Manager also urged developers to use only Energy Commissions certified electricians to wire their new structures as that was the acceptable requirement before the Company could connect a client to the national grid.



Officials of the ECG also educated clients on the best ways to use electricity safely at all times to avoid fires, injuries and deaths.



On their part, the customers raised concerns on bad customer service experiences they had with ECG at certain times, as well as some staff demanding payment for services.



Other customers applauded ECG Tema for their quick responses to faults, while others also shared their experience of how they were able to acquire a meter easily from the Tema North District without any middleman and at a much cheaper rate than anticipanted.

Source: GNA









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News Release: The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Undertakes Operations at Osu



With reference to an incident that occurred at a facility at Osu yesterday, Tuesday, 7th September, 2021, the Police Administration wishes to bring to the attention of the public some facts. pic.twitter.com/vH4KiuQA3q

 Ghana Police Service (@GhPoliceService) September 8, 2021





OSU KFC robbery this noonday light robbery chale pic.twitter.com/l5uAfEqgTw



 bryt neymar  (@Brytneymar) September 7, 2021

The incident seen on the Oxford Street, Osu in Accra on Tuesday, September 7 which was described as robbery was a covert operations at Osu against the activities of some suspected criminals undertaken by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police, a police statement has said on Thursday September 9.According to the Police, the fallout from the operations was witnessed by some members of the public and no one was hurt, neither was any property damaged in the process.Videos went viral on social media capturing gun-wielding personnel moving in and out of the KFC eatery at Osu.A tweet on Wednesday by KFC said an alleged suspect entered the restaurant, following which the police was called.But the Police statement said With reference to an incident that occurred at a facility at Osu yesterday, Tuesday, 7th September, 2021, the Police Administration wishes to bring to the attention of the public some facts.The anti-robbery unit of the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police undertook an intelligent-based covert operations at Osu against the activities of some suspected criminals.The fallout from the operations was witnessed by some members of the public and no one was hurt neither was any property damaged in the process.

Source: 3news.com









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Kwamena Duncan, a former Central Regional Minister, has called on the Christian Council and Regional House of Chiefs to condemn the recent statements by former President John Dramani Mahama.



Former President John Mahama, speaking on Akina Radio at Techiman in the Bono-East Region during his ''Thank You'' tour, emphatically stated the 2024 general elections will be a ''do or die affair''.



According to him, we learn from the past so we [NDC] have learned our lessons from the 2020 election. The next elections will be won or lost at the polling station.



If otherwise, it will be a do or die affair at the polling station. The right thing must be done. We will win our election at the polling station.



We will do everything to make sure the election is transparent and fair. We dont want to cheat them, so they shouldnt. We wont wait for any Supreme Court, no!, he stressed.



Responding to Mr. Mahama's statements, Kwamena Duncan asked the clergy and Chiefs not to go silent on the matter.



"If you remain silent on this matter and don't talk for President Mahama to stop from the path he's trending, this country stands in high risk," he said on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo''.



He urged them to bring Mr. Mahama to order saying, "the former President indeed has thrown this entire country into a certain disarray. He's now told his supporters that 2024 will be a bloodbath [war] and I want to indeed prostrate before all of you that quickly, any effort, any influence you can exert that we prevent this; it must happen!''







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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As a young child, I was not spared with the trauma and fearsomeness associated with the related consequences and excesses of the coup detats staged by the AFRC and PNDC between 1979 to 1991.



My late father, a successful businessman , Mr. Edward Osei Boakye, known to many as Boakye Mattress was a household name in the business community in Ghana at the time with many companies and varied number of investments in Ghana and across Africa with a large pool of employees.Businessman E. O. Boakye was the only Ghanaian who first wholly established a Mattress and Foam Factory in Ghana in 1960s.



He then expanded his businesses through joint ventures and other partnerships with Vitafoam of Nigeria and many other West African Companies.In the 1970s, Boakye Mattress built the first fully-serviced private hospital (now the state-owned Police Hospital).He also had commercial property developments, houses and apartment blocks( FC Cosmetics Building, for instance) in Accra and Kumasi.



Despite all his contributions to the Ghanaian economy, he was politically hounded and chased out of all his businesses ; and his immediate family forced to leave in fear and persecutions when the PNDC coup detats violently erupted.



In a matter of the military uprising, however, by all accounts, my dad became one of the many casualties of the PNDC Coups. His businesses were grounded due to political witch hunting.His great vision as a sought-after businessman was truncated abruptly.



For me as a child, I grew up without a father, I couldnt see eye to eye with my father because he was in exile for about 15 years.



The harrowing tales told then,nerve-racking and shocking revelations that came out during the year 2000s National Reconciliation Commissions public hearing alone should be the major reason any Ghanaian seen supporting, rooting for , praising and welcoming coup detats should be condemned outrightly.



The unlawful detentions, serial abductions, torture ,violations of human rights of wealthy and influential persons in society, brazen thirst for collapsing businesses owed Ghanaians who were deemed as opponents(in the case of my dad) , civil unrests, violent protests have been the character of all the numerous coups which has happened in Africa since 1960s till our current democratic dispensation.



Its an admissible fact that, sometimes, there are undercurrents and remote causes that set the stage for the military to topple governments but the crux of the matter is that, ousting democratically elected governments amidst the chaos and potential national instability should never be the best panacea to the supposed National hues and cries as compared to resolutions through diplomacy and dialogue.



I could go on and on about the repercussions and heart-wrenching memories that Ghanaians share anytime coup detat is mentioned in our national discourse but having my being a direct victim of coups, I would unreservedly and relentlessly use every opportunity given to call on the nation wreckers ranting and chanting for coup detat in Ghana to desist from it and refine their thoughts accordingly.



It is recklessly reprehensible , morally unjustifiable, and sheerly amounts to cluelessness if only coups become the major solution to National upheavals and problems. My principle on any day as a trained Lawyer and Ghanaian is that,democratically and constitutionally mandated governments should be allowed to represent the people at all times. All persons and groups associating,celebrating and welcoming coup detats are nothing shot of nation wreckers!



At a time that Ghana is this peaceful, I have always felt that words and statements that has the propensity to incite and inflame passions and fuel electoral war should not come out from former President Mahama .But, shockingly his recent outbursts on the do or die analogy positions him as a man who believes in violence. I call on all well meaning Ghanaians to condemn his irresponsible and reckless statements and call him to order.



May God bless Ghana.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The 2020 Flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr John Dramani Mahama, has assured the people of Techiman that the next NDC administration will ensure a speedy investigation of the December 2020 election-related killings of some voters in Techiman and punish the culprits.



According to Mr Mahama, if the government reneges on its duty of punishing those responsible for the shooting and killing of the three persons in Techiman during the elections, the NDC will investigate and punish all such persons.



The 2020 elections, for the first time, saw the deaths of eight citizens, among whom were children, with Techiman South recording a number of casualties.



But nine months after the incident and with no one prosecuted for the deaths, Mr Mahama says justice must be done in order to forestall such occurrences from being repeated in the future.



He said: "We have said that justice must not only be done but be seen to be done. It is important that those who committed those crimes are punished lest they will repeat the same action tomorrow. This is the nature of impunity."



"Because Techiman occured and nothing happened, that's what encouraged the Ejura incident," he said.



The former Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, was answering questions in an interview on Akina Radio in Techiman in the Bono East region, as part of his tour to thank Ghanaians for their votes and support during the 2020 elections.



The former president alleged that the rules of engagement governing the security services are being abused under the current administration.



"The security has rules of engagement when dealing with civilians and that includes the use of hot water among others. It is only when these fail that you bring in the military," Mr Mahama said.



"But when you look at what happened at Ejura, when the security forces were coming, it was the soldiers who were leading the charge instead of the police being in front with soldiers at the back. So that if the police fail then the soldiers step in, but as soon as they got there, those who immediately jumped into action were soldiers in pickups who started shooting causing mayhem" he said.



Mr Mahama disclosed that some of the victims were non political actors, including children who had only come to witness the electoral process.



"Some of the victims were not even members of our party. They were inhabitants of Techiman who came to witness what was happening. One was a young child, barely 18 years. So when they shot the gun, three people fell dead. And there were many others who sustained gunshot wounds."



The former President expressed sadness when he was informed that President Akufo-Addo had not condemned the murders nor visited the victims. He nonetheless pledged that when the NDC comes to power it would ensure that all victims and their families receive justice.







Source: graphiconline.com









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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has appointed broadcast journalist Paul Adom-Otchere as the board chairman of the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL).



The seven-member GACL board also includes Mr Yaw Kwakwa, the Managing Director of the company, Mr Teye Adjrackor, nominee of the President; Mr Kwabena Mantey Jectey Nyarko, nominee of the President; Madam Philomina Sam, nominee of the President; Mr Francis Kofi Nunoo, Ministry of Transport; and Group Captain Cervase Wienaa.



It will be recalled that Mr Adom-Otchere was also on the board of the National Communications Authority (NCA) during President Akufo-Addo's first term.



TV host



He is the host of Good Evening Ghana on Metro TV and has in the past faced criticisms of skewing his analyses and editorials in favour of persons in his good books on the show.



In a recent interview on Citi FM, Mr Adom Otchere addressed the critics, stating that he uses his platform to give support to promising individuals that he personally believes in.



He said: I can be a journalist and decide that I know someone and I have observed him from parliament. I think that he should run for President. The day that person runs for President, I will use my newspaper to support him, that is also fair.



"It is very legitimate as a journalist. It is not an agenda, but it is setting out to use our platform to support a politician that you have observed, and you believe in. It is not an agenda. An agenda is creating what does not exist. That is what an agenda is. So I am not an agenda journalist".







Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former President John Dramani Mahama says he stands by his "do or die" election comment explaining that it was an idiomatic expression.



Explaining, Mr Mahama said many people do not understand idiomatic expressions because they left school at an early age.



"...You don't understand do or die... Do or die means a critical assignment you have, and you must do the needful or perish," he said.



Speaking in a radio interview in Techiman in the Bono East Region on Tuesday (September 7, 2021), Mr Mahama said the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has learnt its lessons from the 2020 elections and will therefore be very vigilant at the polling stations during the next general elections in 2024.



He was in Techiman as part of his "Thank You Tour."



Speaking in the Twi language, Mr Mahama stated that the 2020 elections taught the NDC that elections can only be won at the polling stations, thus they will not let their guards down.



He said the elections "will be won or lost at the polling station.



At the polling station. "it will be do or die". Clarifying that he was not referring to "All die be die", he reiterated that it will be "do or die. The right thing must be done."



He said the NDC will not wait till the collation stage or wait for court process, "at the polling station and collation center, we will do everything to make sure the election is free, fair and transparent."



He said the NDC will not want to cheat the NPP and will not equally allow the NDC to be cheated, rather they will want transparency so that the will of the people will be done.



Public discussion



Following the comment , some public discussions have indicated that there was no difference between "do or die" and a similar "All die be die" comment made by President Akufo-Addo in the past in relation to elections, which was also condemned by some people.



Mr Mahama in his comment indicated his "do or die" is different from Akufo-Addo's "All die be die."



But some people in the public discussions on radio and television have said there was no difference between the two expressions.



Some have called on Mr Mahama to retract the comment.



A political science lecturer at the University of Ghana and an analyst, Dr Richard Kwame Asah Asante for instance has said Mr Mahama's comment was inappropriate.





He expressed the hope that there will be an independent body to check on inflammatory political comments.



"Election is not a do or die affair, it is a contest of ideas or a referendum on our work. But if you look at the statement, is it different from all be die? The two statement s are absolutely not correct and it tells you that there is something wrong with political communication as far as these statements are concerned."



Dr Asante proposed the establishment of a neutral body that will ensure that the political environment is devoid of volatile statements and sanctions applied to culprits.



Mahama's rebuttal



Reacting to the public discussions Wednesday in another radio interview in Sunyani on Moonlight FM monitored by Graphic Online, Mr Mahama insisted he simply used an idiomatic expression and therefore he will not retract the comment.



He reiterated that the opposition NDC will not wait to go the Supreme Court with their electoral grievances and will ensure that the right thing was done at the polling station.



He said the NDC plans to ensure that all its party executives are at the polling and collation centres to ensure that the right thing is done.



"Don't abdicate your responsibility at that level and expect that after somebody has stolen the election, you'll go the Supreme Court to see if they will turn the election for you, they won't do it," he added.

Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has apologised to the people of Afghanistan after fleeing to take refuge in the United Arab Emirates as the Taliban advanced last month.



Ghani abruptly left Afghanistan as Taliban militants advanced on the capital on 15 August. Reports say he fled to UAE wwith about $169m (123m) but he has denied those allegations. "Leaving Kabul was the most difficult decision of my life," Ghani said on his social media handle.



"I'm sorry I could not make it end differently".



He said he had not intended to abandon his people but "it was the only way". Ghani said he had no choice but to leave the country in order to avoid widespread violence. "I left at the urging of the palace security, who advised me that to stay risked setting off the same street-to-street fighting the city had suffered during the civil war of the 1990s," he wrote, adding that he did so to "save Kabul and her six million citizens".



He said he had devoted 20 years to helping Afghanistan become a "democratic, prosperous and sovereign state".



He added that he had "deep and profound regret that my own chapter ended in similar tragedy to my predecessors".

In a live Facebook address on 18 August, Mr Ghani said he was "forced" to leave Afghanistan by his security team because "there was a real chance that I would be captured and killed".



He said that when the Taliban entered the presidential palace in Kabul, "they started looking for me from room to room".



Denying claims that he had taken a large amount of money with him when he left the country, Ghani said he was "not even allowed to take his sandals off and put hist shoes on".













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Short URL for this page:

https://bit.ly/SpartanWomenE

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Bill Thayer



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Up

Home This webpage reproduces the essay

Lacaenarum Apophthegmata

by

Plutarch

as published in Vol. III

of the Loeb Classical Library edition, 1931 The text is in the public domain. This page has been carefully proofread

and I believe it to be free of errors.

If you find a mistake though,

please let me know!

(Vol. III) Plutarch, Moralia

p455 Sayings of Spartan Women

Argileonis, the mother of Brasidas, when her son had met his death,1 and some of the citizens of Amphipolis arrived at Sparta and came to her, asked if her son had met his death honourably and in a manner worthy of Sparta. And when they proceeded to tell of his greatness, and declared that he was the best of all the Spartans in such enterprises, she said, "Sirs, my son was a gude and honourable mon, but Sparta has mony a mon dbetter than him."2

1 Gorgo, daughter of king Cleomenes, when Aristagoras of Miletus was urging her father to enter upon the war against the Persian king in behalf of the Ionians, promising a vast sum of money, and, in answer to Cleomenes' objections, making the amount larger and larger, said, "Father, the miserable foreigner will be your ruin if you don't get him out of the house pretty soon!"4

2 Once when her father told her to give some grain to a man by way of remuneration, and added, "It is because he showed me how to make the wine p457 taste good," she said, e"Then, father, there will be more wine drunk, and the drinkers will become more intemperate and depraved."5

3 When she had watched Aristagoras having his shoes put on and laced by one of the servants, she said, "Father, the foreigner hasn't any hands!"6

4 When a foreigner made advances in a mild and leisurely way, she pushed him aside, saying, "Get away from here, you who cannot play a woman's part either!"

5 Being asked by a woman from Attica, "Why is it that you Spartan women are the only women that lord it over your men," she said, "Because we are the only women that are mothers of men."7

6 As she was encouraging her husband Leonidas, when he was about to set out for Thermopylae, to show himself worthy of Sparta, she asked what she should do; and he said, "Marry a good man, and bear good children."8

Gyrtias

1 Gyrtias, when on a time Acrotatus, her grandson, in a fight with other boys received many blows, and was brought home for dead, and the family and friends were all wailing, said, "Will you not stop your noise? fHe has shown from what blood he was sprung." And she said that people who were good for anything should not scream, but should try to find some remedy.9

p459 2 When a messenger came from Crete bringing the news of the death of Acrotatus,10 she said, "When he had come to the enemy, was he not bound either to be slain by them or to slay them? It is more pleasing to hear that he died in a manner worthy of myself, his country, and his ancestors than if he had lived for all time a coward."11

Damatria

Damatria heard that her son had been a coward and unworthy of her, and when he arrived, she made away with him. This is the epigram12 referring to her:

Sinner against our laws, Damatrius, slain by his mother, Was of the Spartan youth; she was of Sparta too.

Other Spartan Women to Fame Unknown

241 1 Another Spartan woman made away with her son, who had deserted his post, on the ground that he was unworthy of his country, saying, "Not mine the scion." This is the epigram referring to her:13

Off to your fate through the darkness, vile scion, who makes such a hatred, So the Eurotas flow not e'en for the timorous deer. Worthless whelp that you are, vile remnant, be off now to Hades; Off! for never I bore Sparta's unworthy son.14

p461 2 Another, hearing that her son had fallen on the field of battle, said:15

"Let the poor cowards be mourned, but, with never a tear do I bury You, my son, who are mine, yea, and are Sparta's as well."

3 Another, hearing that her son had been saved and had run away from the enemy, wrote to him, "Ill report is spread about ye; aither clear yersel' of this or stop yer living."

b 4 Another, when her sons had run away from battle and come to her, said, "Where have you come now in your cowardly flight, vile varlets? Do you intend to slink in here whence you came forth?" And with these words she pulled up her garment and showed them.16a

5 One woman, observing her son coming towards her, inquired, "How fares our country?" And when he said, "All have perished," she took up a tile and, hurling it at him, killed him, saying, "And so they sent you to bear the bad news to us!"

6 As a man was narrating to his mother the noble death of his brother, she said, "Isn't it a shame, then, to have missed his company on such a journey?"17

c 7 One woman sent forth her sons, five in number, to war, and, standing in the outskirts of the city, she awaited anxiously the outcome of the battle. And when someone arrived and, in answer to her inquiry, reported that all her sons had met death, she said, p463 "I did not inquire about that, you vile varlet, but how fares our country?" And when he declared that it was victorious, "Then," she said, "I accept gladly also the death of my sons."18

8 Another was burying her son, when a commonplace old woman came up to her and said, "Ah the bad luck of it, you puir woman." "No, by Heaven," said she, "but good luck; for I bore him that he might die for Sparta, dand this is the very thing that has come to pass for me."19

9 When a woman from Ionia showed vast pride in a bit of her own weaving, which was very valuable, a Spartan woman pointed to her four sons, who were most well-behaved, and said, "Such should be the employments of the good and honourable woman, and it is over these that she should be elated and boastful."20

10 Another, hearing about her son that he was conducting himself badly in a foreign land, wrote to him, "Ill report is spread about ye; pit this from ye or else stop yer living."21

11 Of somewhat similar character is this: Chian exiles came to Sparta, and accused Paedaretus of many misdeeds; ewhereupon his mother Teleutia sent for them and, after listening to their complaints, feeling that her son was in the wrong, sent him this letter: "Mither to Paedaretus. Aither dae better, or stay where ye are, and gie up hope o' gaen back safe to Sparta."

p465 12 Another, when her son was being tried for some offence, said to him, "My child, either rid yourself of the charges, or rid yourself of life."

13 Another, as she accompanied a lame son on his way to the field of battle, said, "At every step,b my child, remember your valour."22a

14 Another, when her son came back to her from field of battle wounded in the foot, and in great pain, said, f"If you remember your valour, my child, you will feel no pain, and be quite cheerful."22b

15 A Spartan, wounded in battle and unable to walk, was crawling on all fours. He was mortified at being so ridiculous; but his mother said to him, "How much better to be joyful over your bravery than to be mortified at silly laughter."

16 Another, as she handed her son his shield, exhorted him, saying, "Either this or upon this."23

17 Another, as her son was going forth to war, said, as she gave the shield into his hands, "This shield your father kept always safe for you; do you, therefore, keep it safe, or cease to live."

18 Another, in answer to her son who said that the sword which he carried was short,24 said, "Add a step to it."

242 19 Another, hearing that her son had been slain fighting bravely in the line of battle, said, "Yes, he p467 was mine." But learning in regard to her other son that he had played the coward and saved his life, she said, "No, he was not mine."25

20 Another, hearing that her son had been killed in battle on the spot where he had been placed, said, "Lay him away, and let his brother take his place."

21 Another, engaged in conducting a solemn public procession, heard that her son was victorious on the field of battle, but that he was dying from the many wounds he had received. She did not remove the garland from her head, but with a proud air said to the women near her, "How much more noble, my friends, bto be victorious on the field of battle and meet death, than to win at the Olympic games and live!"26

22 As a man was relating to his sister the noble death of her son, she said, "As glad as I am for him, I am sorry for you that you were left behind when you might have gone in such brave company."27

23 A man sent to a Spartan woman to ask if she were inclined to look with favour upon seduction; she replied, "When I was a child I learned to obey my father, and made that my practice. Then when I became a married woman, my husband took that place. So if the man's proposal is honourable, let him lay the matter before my husband first."c

24 A poor girl, being asked what dowry she brought to the man who married her, said, "The family virtue."

c 25 A Spartan woman, being asked if she had made advances to her husband, said, "No, but my husband has made them to me."28

p469 26 A girl had secret relations with a man, and, after bringing on an abortion, she bore up so bravely, not uttering a single sound, that her delivery took place without the knowledge of her father and others who were near. For the confronting of her indecorum with decorum gained the victory over the poignant distress of her pains.

27 A Spartan woman who was being sold as a slave, when asked what she knew how to do, said, "To be faithful."

28 Another, taken captive, and asked a similar question, said, "To manage a house well."

29 Another, asked by a man if she would be good if he bought her, said, "Yes, and if you do not buy me."29

d 30 Another who was being sold as a slave, when the crier inquired of her what she knew how to do, said, "To be free." And when the purchaser ordered her to do something not fitting for a free woman, she said, "You will be sorry that your meanness has cost you such a possession," and committed suicide."30

The Editor's Notes:

1 At the battle of Amphipolis, 422 B.C.



2 Cf. the note on Moralia, 190B , supra.



3 Gorgo later became the wife of Leonidas.



4 Cf. Herodotus, V.4851.



5 Cf. the note on Moralia, 218D (4), where the same idea is attributed to Archidamus.



6 Cf. Diogenes Laertius, VI.44, where Diogenes the cynic goes Gorgo one better.



7 Cf. Moralia, 227E, supra, and the note.



8 Cf. Moralia, 225A (2), supra.



9 The last sentence is borrowed from Plato, Republic, 604C.



10 Son of Areus I, king of Sparta. he fell in battle at Megalopolis in 265 B.C., but the fact that his father Areus had been fighting in Crete may account for the intrusion of Crete here. Pausanias (VIII.27.11) makes a more serious error in confusing this Acrotatus with his grandfather of the same name.



11 Cf. the similar saying of a Spartan woman, quoted by Teles in Stobaeus, Florilegium, CVIII.83 .



12 Cf. the Palatine Anthology, VII no. 433, or W. R. Paton, The Greek Anthology (in L. C. L.), II p238.



13 Cf. the variant version in the Palatine Anthology, VII no. 433 (or W. R. Paton, The Greek Anthology (in L. C. L.), II p238).



14 Cf. Moralia, 242A, infra.



15 Cf. Moralia, 235A, supra.



16 Cf. Moralia, 246A, and Teles as quoted by Stobaeus, Florilegium, CVIII.83 .



17 Cf. Moralia, 242B (22), infra.



18 Cf. Plutarch's Life of Agesilaus, chap. xxix (612CD).



19 The story is told also by Teles in Stobaeus, Florilegium, CVIII.83 ; cf. also Cicero, Tusculan Disputations, I.42 (102).



20 Cf. Severus in Stobaeus, Florilegium, V.47 , and the similar story of the Roman Cornelia, the mother of the Gracchi.



21 Cf. Moralia, 241A (3), supra.



22a 22b Cf. Moralia, 331B; Stobaeus, Florilegium, VII.29 ; Cicero, De oratore, II.61 (249).



23 Referred to Gorgo as the author by Aristotle in his Aphorisms, as quoted by Stobaeus, Florilegium, VII.31 , but it is often spoken of as a regular Spartan custom. Cf., for example, the scholium on Thucydides, II.39.

Ancient writers were not agreed whether the second half meant to fall upon the shield (dead or wounded) or to be brought home dead upon it. In support of the second (traditional) interpretation Cf. Moralia, 235A, and Valerius Maximus, II.7, ext. 2.



24 Cf. Moralia, 191E, supra.



25 Cf. Moralia, 241A, supra.



26 Cf. the somewhat similar story about Xenophon in Moralia, 118F.



27 Cf. Moralia, 241B (6), supra.



28 Cf. Moralia, 140C.



29 Cf. Moralia, 234C (39), supra.



30 Cf. Moralia, 234B (37 and 38), supra.

Thayer's Notes:

a As they say, the first time is tragedy; after that, farce. A somewhat similar incident occurred in my own life, when I was a twenty-yearold with my first civilian job in Schenectady, NY: my parents came to visit, and we were sitting in a restaurant, where I was going on about my forthcoming trip to Europe; my mother kept on nudging me that I had no plans to go see Bern in Switzerland, where I was born, and I kept on saying that there was no reason for me to go there. Finally, my father put an end to it, raising his voice slightly so the neighbouring tables could hear: "Alright dear  show him where he was born."



b This woman's words, 2500 years later, have been fittingly adopted as the motto of Leonidas International, a nonprofit organization for the uplift and rehabilitation of physically and emotionally wounded warriors. I encourage you, gentle reader, to follow that link.



c This is not a rhetorical rebuff: see Plutarch's Life of Lycurgus, 15.69.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australia's energy resources exports were needed to power developing countries.

Australia vowed Thursday to keep mining coal for export and said global demand was rising, rejecting a study that warned nearly all its reserves must stay in the ground to address the climate crisis.

Researchers warned in a study published in the journal Nature this week that 89 percent of global coal reservesand 95 percent of Australia's sharemust be left untouched.

Such restraint, they said, would still only offer a 50 percent chance of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levelsthe current global goal.

But Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Thursday Australia's energy exports were needed to power developing countries, and predicted technology would enable them to be burned "in a much more climate-friendly way" in the future.

"We will keep mining the resources that we're able to sell on the world market," Morrison told a news conference when asked if he would put an "expiration date" on the coal mining industry.

"We obviously anticipate that over time world demand for these things may change."

Under existing agreements, developing countries are able to use Australian resources "well into the future", Morrison said.

Negotiators from 196 countries will join the 26th edition of the UN Climate Change Conference of the PartiesCOP26in the Scottish city of Glasgow in November.

The 12-day meeting, the biggest climate conference since landmark talks in Paris in 2015, is seen as a crucial step in setting worldwide emissions targets to slow global warming.

Climate scientists warn extreme weather and fierce fires will become increasingly common due to manmade global warming.

Environmentalists argue inaction on climate change could cost Australia's economy billions of dollars as the country suffers more intense bushfires, storms and floods.

But Canberra has refused to adopt a net-zero emissions target and remains one of the world's largest fossil fuel exporters.

Australian Resources Minister Keith Pitt said coal remained Australia's second-largest export, after iron ore.

Coal exports brought in Aus$50 billion (US$37 billion) a year and the industry provided direct jobs for 50,000 Australians, he said.

"The reality is that global demand for Australian coal is increasing and forecast to continue rising into the next decade at least," Pitt said in a statement, promising coal industry workers they had a "long-term commitment" from the government.

Explore further Australia rejects climate targets despite damning UN report

 2021 AFP
In this Sept. 12, 2019 file photo, the 2019 Ig Nobel award is displayed at the 29th annual Ig Nobel awards ceremony at Harvard University in Cambridge, Mass. The spoof prizes for weird and sometimes head-scratching scientific achievement will be presented online in 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Credit: AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File

Beards aren't just cool and trendythey might also be an evolutionary development to help protect a man's delicate facial bones from a punch to the face.

That's the conclusion of a trio of scientists from the University of Utah who are among the winners of this year's Ig Nobel prizes, the Nobel Prize spoofs that honoror maybe dishonor, depending on your point of viewstrange scientific discoveries.

The winners of the 31st annual Ig Nobels being announced Thursday included researchers who figured out how to better control cockroaches on U.S. Navy submarines; animal scientists who looked at whether it's safer to transport an airborne rhinoceros upside-down; and a team that figured out just how disgusting that discarded gum stuck to your shoe is.

For the second year in a row, the ceremony was a roughly 90-minute prerecorded digital event because of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, said Marc Abrahams, editor of the Annals of Improbable Research magazine, the event's primary sponsor.

While disappointing in many ways because half the fun of a live ceremony is the rowdy audience participation, the ceremony retained many in-person traditions. Those included real Nobel laureates announcing the prizes, and the world premiere of a mini opera called "A Bridge Between People," about children who literally build tiny suspension bridges to join two angry adults.

No faces were punched for the beard study published in the scientific journal Integrative Organismal Biology.

In this Sept. 12, 2019 file photo, Shigeru Watanabe, of Japan, receives the Ig Nobel award in chemistry for estimating the total saliva volume produced per day by a typical five-year-old, at the 29th annual Ig Nobel awards ceremony at Harvard University, in Cambridge, Mass. The spoof prizes for weird and sometimes head-scratching scientific achievement will be presented online in 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Credit: AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File

Instead, University of Utah scientists Ethan Beseris, Steven Naleway and David Carrier used a fiber epoxy composite to simulate human bone, and sheepskin to act as the human skinsometimes with the fleece still on, sometimes sheared. They then dropped weights on them.

The sample with the fleece still attached absorbed more energy than the sheared samples.

"If the same is true for human facial hair, then having a full beard may help protect vulnerable regions of the facial skeleton from damaging strikes, such as the jaw," they said. "Presumably, full beards also reduce injury, laceration, and contusion to the skin and muscle of the face."

It's obvious that those wads of discarded chewing gum found on sidewalks around the world are pretty revolting.

But just how revolting?

Researchers from a Spanish university determined the already-chewed gum that has been stuck to the sidewalk for three months is teeming with nasty bacteria.

In this Sept. 12, 2019 file photo, audience members toss paper airplanes at the 29th annual Ig Nobel awards ceremony at Harvard University, in Cambridge, Mass. The spoof prizes for weird and sometimes head-scratching scientific achievement will be presented online in 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Credit: AP Photo/Elise Amendola, File

It sounds like a silly study, but as usual, there was some method to the madness.

"Our findings have implications for a wide range of disciplines, including forensics, contagious disease control, or bioremediation of wasted chewing gum residues," Leila Satari, Alba Guillen, Angela Vidal-Verdu, and Manuel Porcar from the University of Valencia wrote in their paper, which was published at Nature.com.

A team of U.S. Navy researchers won for figuring out a cheaper and more effective way to control cockroaches on submarines. The 1971 study that appeared in Journal of Economic Entomology found that traditional methods such as carboxide fumigation and use of the pesticide malathion were not good enough.

They found that using the pesticide dichlorvos was less expensive and more effective.

The goal is to return next year's ceremony to its traditional home at Harvard University's Sanders Theatre, Abrahams said, but much depends on whether the pandemic is under control and what kind of travel restrictions are in place around the world.

Explore further Stockholm Nobel ceremony replaced with televised event: Foundation

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
South Lake Tahoe resident Connor Jones sits with his dog on a smoke-cloaked empty beach in South Lake Tahoe, Calif., Monday Sept. 6, 2021. Residents who fled South Lake Tahoe under threat of a wildfire were allowed to return as crews stalled the flames from advancing. Credit: AP Photo/Samuel Metz

A weather system approaching northwest California was expected to bring dry lightning and blustery winds by late Thursday, unleashing a risk of new wildfires as thousands of firefighters have been making headway against existing blazes.

A warning for dangerous fire weather was set to take effect in much of fire-scarred Northern California in the afternoon and last through Friday.

"The combination of isolated dry lightning and gusty winds with the dry fuels will bring the potential for critical fire weather conditions," the National Weather Service said.

A historic drought and recent heat waves tied to climate change have made wildfires harder to fight in the American West. Scientists say climate change has made the region much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said Wednesday that firefighters were making significant progress against the flames in part because weather had improved.

More than 14,600 firefighters were on the lines of 13 active, large wildfires in California on Thursday.

The Dixie Fire in the northern Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade Range grew to nearly 1,449 square miles (3,753 square kilometers) but was 59% contained. It is the second-largest California fire on record. Only last year's August Complex was larger, at just over 1,613 square miles (4,177 square kilometers).

In this Sept. 1, 2021, file photo, a firefighter lights a backfire to stop the Caldor Fire from spreading near South Lake Tahoe, Calif. An unidentified firefighter has died of an illness while assigned to one of California's largest wildfires, authorities said Sunday, Sept. 5, 2021, marking the first death in a season that has seen blazes destroy thousands of buildings and force entire towns to flee. Edwin Zuniga with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection said he couldn't provide other details on the death. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

In this Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2021, file photo, firefighters are lit by a backfire set to prevent the Caldor Fire from spreading near South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Thousands of wildfires burn in the U.S. each year, and each one requires firefighters to make quick decisions, often in difficult conditions like high winds and lightning. Crews and managers must determine when to bring in aircraft, what time of day is best to battle flames, whether to evacuate residents and even if certain fires should be extinguished at all. Credit: AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

Near Lake Tahoe, the Caldor Fire grew only slightly, to just over 340 square miles (880 square kilometers), and was 53% contained.

Nationally, some 22,000 firefighters were working on 79 active, large wildfires in nine states in the West as well as Minnesota, according to the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise, Idaho.

President Joe Biden will survey fire damage during a visit to California next week.

Explore further California winds shifting as wildfire battles go on

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Neuroscientists have developed a computer model to explain how a nematode worm searches for food, revealing that single brain cells can both sense the environment and control a whole animal's foraging strategy.

The study, involving a team of scientists from the University of Leeds and the Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam, involved the microscopic nematode species, Caenorhabditis elegans.

In a paper published today in the journal Communications Biology, the researchers show that sensory cells in this animal are not only picking up signals from the environment, they are also processing that information to drive decision making that dictates the animal's motion.

Up to now, scientists had generally believed information from sensory cells was sent to other circuits in the animal's brain for decision making and to control behavior.

Professor Netta Cohen, Computational Neuroscientist at the University of Leeds and co-lead author in the paper, says that their "findings are startlingwe found simple mechanisms by which salt tasting cells drive a rather sophisticated strategy to forage for food."

Foraging pattern

The species C. elegans feeds off bacteria in patches of rotting vegetation in soils. These patches of food are likely to vary in size and be some distance apart, with the result that worm colonies undergo a "boom or bust" existence. For an individual animal, successfully foraging for food is a matter of life or death.

To increase its chances of survival, the worm has evolved a foraging strategy where it will randomly criss-cross an area in search of food: if it finds no food, the animal will move away in search of other areas with possible food.

The researchers performed experiments and developed a model which explains how the worm's taste sensors process information from the environment to direct its foraging behavior.

They believe the worm uses its taste of salt in the soil as "navigation beacons", moving towards them and then, if food is not found, away from them.

Sensory cells attracted to salt

The nervous system of C. elegans contains 302 cells, including two taste cells that are stimulated by the presence of salt. These two sensory cells respond differently: one is stimulated by increasing salt levels, the other by decreasing salt levels.

The starting point for this study was the discovery by researchers led by Dr. Gert Jansen in Rotterdam that when one of these cells is active, the other is "asleep".

Professor Cohen says that "when a nematode first senses a salty environment, the sensory cell that is sensitive to increasing salt concentrations is stimulated - and provides all the information the animal needs to steer into the salt patch."

But if the animal does not locate food after a few minutes, the sensory cell becomes de-sensitized. Meanwhile the other taste cell, stimulated by decreasing salt levels, becomes active, inducing sharp turns that help keep the animal on the salt. The result is that the animal preferentially explores larger patches of salt.

Both the sensory cells work to keep the worm foraging on a salt patch. But what happens if it fails to find food? Dr. Gert Jansen and his group discovered that two additional sensory cells are recruited to the salt sensing circuit when animals are exposed to salt.

It was initially thought that these additional sensory cells alerted the worm to dangers in the environment, allowing it to abruptly change direction and get out of harm's way. But the study has revealed that these harm-avoidance cells also toggle on and off as part of its navigation strategy, allowing it to sharply change direction to avoid the salt, thus extending its foraging range.

Over time, all the sensors continue to cycle between their on and off states, in this way controlling a rich and dynamic foraging strategy.

Professor Cohen says that "we think this is a mechanism built into these sensory cells. Not only is it remarkably effective, but surprisingly, because it all takes place inside the sensors, it is very easy to implement with the basic toolkit that nearly all brain cells have at their disposal.

"While C. elegans may use salt cues to forage for food, we suspect similar mechanisms may be used by other animals to selectively attend to other cues or features of the environment."

The study was funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and the Center for Biomedical Genetics, the Royal Netherlands Academy of Sciences.

Earlier this year, Professor Cohen's team at the University of Leeds revealed in a paper published in the journal Nature, that they had mapped the physical organization of the brain of C. elegans.

Explore further Researchers identify role of interneurons in food-seeking behavior of worms

More information: Martijn P. J. Dekkers et al, Plasticity in gustatory and nociceptive neurons controls decision making in C. elegans salt navigation, Communications Biology (2021). Journal information: Communications Biology , Nature Martijn P. J. Dekkers et al, Plasticity in gustatory and nociceptive neurons controls decision making in C. elegans salt navigation,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02561-9
UNSW Science's Giulia Ferretto planting Posidonia australis into old boat mooring scars in Port Stephens. Credit: Grumpy Turtle Creative

Citizen scientist volunteers known as the "storm squad" collected seagrass fragments to successfully rehabilitate populations of NSW's endangered Posidonia australis.

An endangered seagrass which supports seahorses, blue swimmer crabs and snapper is being successfully rehabilitated thanks to the help of citizen scientists and UNSW scientists.

A study led by UNSW Science Ph.D. student Giulia Ferretto and published in Biological Conservation, enlisted the help of 80 citizen scientists to restore Posidonia australis in Port Stephens.

"We have been restoring Posidonia in mooring scars in Port Stephens, the second most impacted estuary by boat moorings in NSW," Ms Ferretto says.

"We launched Operation Posidoniaa collaboration between UNSW, Sydney Institute of Marine Science, the NSW Department of Primary Industries, and UWAin 2018 and engaged over 5000 people through our social media channels and guided seagrass meetings with local groups and high schools.

"Over two years, our 'army' of volunteer citizen scientistsa 'Storm Squad' of beach goers, dog walkers and kayakerscollected a total of 1500 naturally detached Posidonia shoots washed up on the beach after storms, strong winds and high tides." Ms Ferretto says when conditions were favorable, a one-hour beach walk could collect as many as 30 viable seagrass fragments.

The shoots were kept in large floating boxes before being replanted by divers in a variety of underwater locations, including the scars caused by boat mooring.

Ms Ferretto says most transplanted fragments produced new shoots after only a few months and are beginning to re-establish on their own, expanding in nearby areas.

"We found that fragments planted in winter survived better than those planted in summer, with some replanted areas reaching 70 percent survival after one year," Ms Ferretto says.

"This is a great result considering that otherwise those fragments wouldn't have had another chance than drying up at sun."

The team is now expanding Operation Posidonia in Lake Macquarie and Botany Bay, two of the estuaries where Posidonia is formally listed as endangered.

The method of collecting washed up, naturally detached fragments of Posidonia (from heaps known as wrack), was adapted from an Italian study which also used Posidonia.

"One of the main problems with restoring an endangered plant is obtaining the material for the revegetation," Ms Ferretto says.

"Posidonia [species] have an interesting distribution, they are only found in Australia and in the Mediterranean Sea.

"The idea of using storm-generated fragments for restoration was initially developed by a group of scientists in Italy and applied to [their] local seagrass, Posidonia oceanica.

"We then combined this idea with the use of citizen science to speed up the collection of the fragments."

Posidonia australis is a foundation species of seagrass which creates a complex and three-dimensional habitat that supports and sustains hundreds of other species, Ms Ferretto says.

"It provides food and shelter to many species of fish and invertebrates, which live amongst seagrass leaves to look for food or find protection from predators," she says.

"Some of the more 'famous' species supported by Posidonia are the White's seahorse (which is also endangered) and commercially important species like blue swimmer crabs, bream, snapper and luderick."

"Seagrass meadows are also extremely effective at capturing and sequestering carbon and can slow down climate change by storing carbon more efficiently than terrestrial forests, as well stabilizing sediments and protecting our shorelines from erosion."

She says the trouble is that Posidonia's preferred habitatof clear waters and sheltered covesis also the preferred habitat for recreational boating.

The traditional mooring of these boats, which involves a chain and concrete "block" that harrows the seagrass bed, creates raw "sand scars," which join up to form larger uninhabitable zones.

Some of these mooring sites, around Port Stephens, have been replaced by less destructive environmentally friendly moorings and it's these sites that the team is restoring.

She says the response from the Port Stephens community to the project was awesome.

"The planting moment for me was the best part, especially when the marine life just started to swim around us divers," she says.

"There was one site, in particular, where every time we'd dive there, there was a group of cuttlefish following us from the moment we would jump in till the end of the dive, as if they were checking if we were doing a good job.

"Turning around after a long dive and seeing that patch that before had only sand now having beautiful green Posidonia leaves gave me a wonderful sensation every time."

The citizen scientist call-out was part of "Operation Posidonia," a collaboration between UNSW, Sydney Institute of Marine Science, the NSW Department of Primary Industries, and the University of Western Australia.

Explore further Human-generated noise can contribute to deplete Seagrass Posidonia populations

More information: Giulia Ferretto et al, Naturally-detached fragments of the endangered seagrass Posidonia australis collected by citizen scientists can be used to successfully restore fragmented meadows, Biological Conservation (2021). Journal information: Biological Conservation Giulia Ferretto et al, Naturally-detached fragments of the endangered seagrass Posidonia australis collected by citizen scientists can be used to successfully restore fragmented meadows,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.biocon.2021.109308
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Women remain underrepresented at the most senior position of international medical journals, finds a new study investigating the gender distribution of editors-in-chief across 41 journal specialities.

The results, published today in JAMA Open Network, found that women represented just 21 percent of editor-in- chief positions, varying widely across specialities (with none at journals specializing in psychiatry and anaesthesiology, to 82 percent in genetics and heredity). Even in women's health journals, the top editorial position was predominantly held by men rather than women.

Dr. Ana-Catarina Pinho-Gomes of The George Institute for Global Health, UK, in collaboration with Imperial College London, who led the research, said it showed much more needed to be done to achieve gender parity.

"Despite the gradual increase in women as clinicians in many medical specialities over the past 50 years, our findings highlight a disappointing lack of progress in their representation in the most senior editorial positions of high-impact medical journals. This adds to compelling evidence on the longstanding gender bias, which has been consistently reported across all medical specialties and at all stages of the academic and clinical career ladder."

Researchers suggest multiple reasons for the disparity, including traditional gender roles with women shouldering greater responsibility for housework and childcare as well as needing to take career breaks for maternity leave. But they also argued that unconscious gender bias could lead to women's academic achievements being undervalued and a perception that they are not suitable for senior leadership roles.

A total of 410 journals and 444 editors-in-chief were included in the analysis, conducted in April 2021. All journals, regardless of their size and remit, have at least one editor-in-chief who oversees the production of content for publications. The findings that women are significantly underrepresented in this position tracks with previous studies, indicating that progress has been inadequate.

Study co-author Dr. Amy Vassallo, Research Fellow at The George Institute Australia, said while the long term goal was to change biased systems, some things could be done more quickly.

"Policies and initiatives need to be immediately implemented, and evaluated, to address diversity and inclusion in medical research leadership, including senior leadership roles in medical journals."

The authors suggest providing training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as on unconscious gender bias, to key stakeholders, as well as having robust policies that establish gender quotas in editorial boards and remove tangible and intangible barriers to women's career progression.

"It is important for journals and academic institutions to work together to drive this change because medicine, and science in general, have much to gain from gender balance and fairness," Dr. Vassallo added.

Explore further Gender inequality study shows women under-represented on marketing academic journal boards

More information: Ana-Catarina Pinho-Gomes et al, Representation of Women Among Editors in Chief of Leading Medical Journals, JAMA Network Open (2021). Journal information: JAMA Network Open Ana-Catarina Pinho-Gomes et al, Representation of Women Among Editors in Chief of Leading Medical Journals,(2021). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.23026
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers from the Institute of Tribal Environmental Professionals this week launched the State of Tribes and Climate Change (STACC) report, which examines the disproportionate effect climate change has on Indigenous lands and people and the added strain tribes experience as they respond to damaging climate events, which are increasing in frequency and severity.

The STACC report builds on the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, released Aug. 9. ITEP, which is a tribal institute at Northern Arizona University, brought together more than 90 authors representing diverse entities and perspectives to create this report, which includes not only research into the effects of climate change but also the voices of Indigenous people who are on the front lines in experiencing and responding to climate disasters.

This report is the first of its kind to be produced in the United States.

"We wanted to change the discourse in this arena and ensure the tribes had their voices and recommendations amplified," said Ann Marie Chischilly, ITEP director and interim vice president of the Office of Native American Initiatives at NAU. "It's my hope that the federal government and its partners will take this report and support tribes more directly."

ITEP's Tribes & Climate Change Program spearheaded this report by convening the author team including 34 Tribal authors who provided personal narratives. Nikki Cooley, the climate program's co-manager, testified in front of the U.S. House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis in July and shared key findings and recommendations from the STACC report. Those findings include the need for greater meaningful participation of Native American and Alaska Native researchers and communities in future climate assessments as well as looking more closely at the on-the-ground work tribes are doing every day.

"Tribes are investing efforts in adaptation planning and projects to keep their communities, ecosystems and people healthy," she said. "In doing so, they are implementing the most cutting-edge work on climate. Tribal nations are actively creating climate vulnerability assessments, adaptation plans and hazard mitigation plans. Protecting traditional knowledge is an important part of these processes. Locally relevant and regionally specific information is needed to understand local climate impacts and develop solutions that incorporate local, traditional and western knowledge for holistic solutions."

In making decisions about protecting land, air and water, governments should work with tribal nations and support their sovereignty and self-determination in protecting these resources. Such collaboration also will inform governments about Indigenous peoples' worldviews, which center relationality, responsibility and reciprocity. Collaborations need to address the sacred and communal nature of resources.

"I stress the importance of acknowledging the unique challenges Native American and Alaska Native villages face when it comes to the climate crisis," Cooley said. "Many of our people live in rural and underserved areas where they have little to no access to water, food and emergency services. The lack of infrastructure on most tribal communities is increasing the stress on the people, natural environment and the costs of maintaining."

The STACC report also will be cited in an Indigenous peoples section in the North America chapter of the sixth IPCC Assessment Report, Climate Change 2022: Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability that will be published in February.

Explore further Ecologists working with tribal partners to preserve culturally significant ecosystems and species

More information: Status of Tribes and Climate Change Working Group (STACCWG). (2021). Status of Tribes and Climate Change Report, Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ. Status of Tribes and Climate Change Working Group (STACCWG). (2021). Status of Tribes and Climate Change Report, Institute for Tribal Environmental Professionals, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ. nau.edu/stacc2021
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

As the country continues to commemorate Women's Month, a recent study by the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and the Perinatal HIV Research Unit (PHRU) shows that female sex workers (FSWs) are exposed to extremely high levels of violence.

Early findings of the study were published in the SSM-Mental Health, a journal that publishes scientific advances related to mental, neurological, and substance use disorders, as well as psychosocial wellbeing and resilience, broadly construed.

Aimed primarily at investigating and describing the prevalence and patterns of exposure of FSWs to violence from intimate partners and other men (clients, police and others), this was a national study of female sex workers (FSWs) linked to sex worker programs, using interviews conducted with 3005 FSWs from across all South African provinces. The study also sought to describe the factors associated with having been raped in the past year.

According to investigators, this is the first time evidence has been available from a national sample of FSWs, and it has illuminated the health and complex life experiences of these vulnerable women. The study followed a 2016 pilot conducted in Soweto amongst FSWs that showed sex workers were extremely vulnerable to violence, mental health problems, and worryingly, signs of HIV drug resistance. The latest nationwide study was conducted in 2019 and was completed before sex workers lives were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the key findings of the study is that FSWs are exposed to extremely high levels of violencein the previous year, almost three quarters (71%) had been exposed to physical violence and more than half (58%) had been raped. The study also found that sex workers were extremely vulnerable to rape by clients, men they encountered in the community, as well as from their intimate partners. "However, a particularly concerning finding was that one in seven women had been raped by a policeman," highlights the study.

The study examined the factors that made FSWs vulnerable to rape by their intimate partners or other men. Within the overarching context in which FSWs are discriminated against as poor, uneducated women and as members of a profession that is criminalized, the research showed that women were much more vulnerable to rape by male non-partners if they worked on the streets, sold sex more frequently across the months, and had begun selling sex in their childhood. They were also more likely to be vulnerable if they were homeless or felt they needed to use drugs or alcohol to cope with sex work. Sex workers who had been raped were much more likely to experience depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dr. Jenny Coetzee, the Principal Investigator (PI) of the study who has been working with FSWs for much of the last two decades, explains that this study has put numbers to the very high levels of violence that she has been aware of FSWs experiencing.

"It is vital that sex worker programs are properly resourced so that they can help protect sex workers from violence," said Dr. Coetzee, adding that there is a need for bold and innovative violence prevention projects to reduce the rates of violence seen across South Africa.

She also highlights that with the economic downturn due to COVID-19, we are likely to see an increase in the number of people engaging in "survival-type" sex work, as well as the perpetration of violence against women. "There has been a lot of research showing what needs to be done to help sex workers, now we need committed resources to protect this vulnerable group of women".

Professor Rachel Jewkes, Executive Scientist for Research Strategy in the Office of the SAMRC President, co-author of the study, described these findings as clearly showing that FSWs experience levels of violence that are even higher than the very high levels found in informal settlements, and are likely the most vulnerable women to rape and physical violence in the country.

"It is essential that we leave no one behind in preventing GBV, and female sex workers must be protected" said Prof Jewkes.

She added that the SAMRC, through its Gender and Health Research Unit (GHRU) continues to reiterate its vital contribution to improving the health status and quality of life of women in South Africa by conducting high quality scientific research and leading dialog on violence against women and how we can more effectively fight against the scourge of GBV.

Explore further Police interactions linked to increased risk of client violence for female sex workers

More information: Rachel Jewkes et al, Sexual IPV and non-partner rape of female sex workers: Findings of a cross-sectional community-centric national study in South Africa, SSM - Mental Health (2021). Rachel Jewkes et al, Sexual IPV and non-partner rape of female sex workers: Findings of a cross-sectional community-centric national study in South Africa,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmmh.2021.100012
Protein condensates (red) are stabilized by Pickering agents (green) that adsorb to the condensate surface. Credit: Andrew Folkmann

Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers report that food science principles have helped them determine how unusual droplets within cells stay organized and avoid dissolving into the rest of the cell's gelatinous interior.

The researchers say their work could advance scientific understanding of cell evolution and help scientists in the food and chemical industry develop better ways to keep liquid mixtures from separating.

The cells of all living organisms hold a collection of mini biological machines called organelles. These structures run the cell's powerhouse mitochondria, brainy nucleus and other operations, all with a defined border and encased in a membrane. However, there are other cell parts that appear as viscous, membrane-free "blobs," but they serve distinct purposes, such as regulating genes, sending chemical signals or storage sites for specialized molecules.

Scientists have long thought these somewhat mystifying droplets might be a primordial version of organelles, and the Johns Hopkins-led research team worked with laboratory worms to study them further.

A report on the research team's findings about these droplets, which are called biomolecular condensates, appears Sept. 10 in Science.

"I hope this work will help convince scientists that biomolecular condensates are highly sophisticated cellular compartments," says Geraldine Seydoux, Ph.D., the Huntington Sheldon Professor in Medical Discovery and vice dean for basic research at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and investigator at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. "We found they have regulated roles and respond to the environment, just like other organelles. And we found that they do have membranes, just not the type we're used to seeing."

Biomolecular condensates were first dubbed "granules" in the 1970s by scientists who used electron microscopy to peer more closely at the structures in many organisms, including squiggly creatures called C. elegans, whose relatively simple biology has made them a common laboratory model for studying everything from modern gene-cutting technology to protein structure. The condensates in worms, which look tough and similar in appearance to grains of sand, are known as P granules.

In 2014 in Seydoux's lab, graduate student Jennifer Wang conducted genetic analyses to find a protein called MEG-3 in worm P granules. Wang's experiments showed that another protein, PGL-3, creates the viscous liquid droplets, the "core" of P granules, and that MEG-3 loiters on the outside of the P granule, making small "clusters" that coat the surface of the P granules.

"What we didn't understand was these proteins could just linger on the outside of P granules yet be so integral to stabilizing the interior of the granules," says Seydoux.

The mystery was still unsolved when, in January, 2020, Seydoux was looking for the right words to describe their observations. She Googled "solids stabilizing liquids" and found references to the food science concept of Pickering emulsions. "I had an OMG moment when I read more about this phenomenon," says Seydoux.

An emulsion is a mixture of two liquids that don't normally mix well, like oil and water. A Pickering emulsion is such a mixture that is stabilized, like the everyday carton of milk from the grocery store.

Unprocessed cow milk is naturally unstable, and the fat droplets in milk tend to glom together to reduce the overall surface area among the fat molecules. The fat moleculesor creamrise to the top and separate from the whey, or watery liquid in the milk.

To avoid milk separation and stabilize the liquid, dairy processors push milk through a small needle, which breaks up the fat droplets, coats them with a protein called casein and avoids creating a creamy layer of fused fat molecules.

Seydoux says it occurred to her that MEG-3 might act in a way very similar to casein's effect in milk, lowering the surface tension of the droplets to keep them from fusing together. And MEG-3's tendency to remain around the surface of P granules suggested to her that it acted as a kind of membrane, she adds.

In their experiments, Seydoux and her team showed that PGL-3 droplets coated with MEG-3 stay evenly separated on glass slides, with twice as many droplets compared with uncoated condensates that fuse together, forming fewer and larger droplets on the glass slide.

"This is a well-known phenomenon in food science, and now we see that it may also be happening inside a cell," says Seydoux.

Seydoux and her team also engineered worm egg cells that lacked MEG-3 and saw that the uncoated P granules dissolved more slowly. This and other experiments, says Seydoux, suggest that MEG-3 not only stabilizes the droplets under normal conditions but also allows the droplets to respond more quickly when environmental conditions change.

Seydoux's team of postdoctoral students, including cell imaging specialist Andrew Folkmann and biochemist Andrea Putnam, sought help to complete their studies from an expert in physical chemistry who could guide them through the physics of Pickering emulsions.

Several months after adding bioengineer Chiu Fan Lee from the Imperial College of London to the team, he helped them identify a missing component in their MEG-3 worm model: an enzyme called MBK-2 that helps the liquid inside P granules become less viscous.

"Together, these experiments provide an explanation for how this primordial soup inside cells can assemble into compartments that resist fusing together and that respond to developmental cues," says Seydoux.

The team plans further studies to determine the precise physical structure of MEG-3 and additional details about how it works. If further studies pan out, MEG-3 could provide a renewable resource for developing Pickering emulsions in the food and chemical industry, they say.

Seydoux and the team have filed patents on the use of MEG-3 as a tool for developing Pickering emulsions.

Explore further New trick found for how cells stay organized

More information: Regulation of biomolecular condensates by interfacial protein clusters, Science (2021). Journal information: Science Regulation of biomolecular condensates by interfacial protein clusters,(2021). www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.abg7071
Figure 1. Maximum levels of estimated daily wildfire-related PM25 in study locations during 200016. Credit: DOI: 10.1016/S2542-5196(21)00200-X

The first study into the global impact of wildfire-related pollution and deaths comprehensively links short term exposure to wildfire-related fine particulate matters (PM 2.5 ) in the air and all-cause, respiratory and cardiovascular mortalities across cities and regions around the globe.

The landmark study, published today in The Lancet Planetary Health, looked at data of more than 65.6 million deaths, from all causes, in 749 cities in 43 countries and regions from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2016cross referencing to daily concentrations of wildfire PM 2.5 concentrations.

The research from an international team, led by Professor Yuming Guo and Dr. Shanshan Li, from the Monash University's School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine in Melbourne, Australia, found that over 33500 deaths occurred each year directly attributable to wildfire pollution, across the 749 cities in the study. According to the data, countries with the most deaths related to wildfire smoke include Japan, with over 7000 annual deaths in 47 cities, Mexico, over 3000 in 10 cities, China, over 1200 in 15 cities, South Africa, over 5200 in 52 cities, Thailand, almost 5300 in 62 cities, and the U.S., with almost 3200 annual deaths in 210 cites relating to airborne wildfire PM 2.5 .

In recent years, there has been widespread wildfire devastation of wildfiresfrom the 45 million acres scorched during Australia's 20192020 fire season, the more than 1.2 million hectares burnt across California since the start of 2019, to the record amount of carbon dioxide released from more than 190 wildfires across Siberia, which now make up more than the rest of the world's wildfires combined.

According to Professor Guo, wildfires can have direct impacts on health such as injury and mental health consequences. "However the pollution from wildfire smoke can spread as far as 1000 kilometers away and the risk of wildfires is projected to increase as climate change worsens," he said.

One of the pollutants within wildfires smoke that is the most concerning is fine particulate matter, PM 2.5 , as particles in this size range enter into the lungs, across the alveoli in the lung walls and into the circulation. Wildfire PM 2 . is more toxic than that from urban fires because of its chemical composition, smaller particle size and associated high temperatures, the authors state in the paper.

The mortality data was obtained from the Multi-City Multi-Country (MCC) Collaborative Study and estimations for the daily concentrations of PM 2.5 were modeled by machine learning, outputs of chemical transport model, ground monitors' measurements of PM 2.5 , and weather data.

The authors conclude that "policy makers and public health professionals should raise awareness of wildfire pollution to guide prompt public responses and take actions to reduce exposure. Effective wildland management policies and practices should be implemented to manage vegetation and mitigate climate change as far as possible."

Explore further More than 47,000 Brazilians hospitalized by exposure to wildfire air pollution every year

More information: Gongbo Chen et al, Mortality risk attributable to wildfire-related PM25 pollution: a global time series study in 749 locations, The Lancet Planetary Health (2021). Gongbo Chen et al, Mortality risk attributable to wildfire-related PM25 pollution: a global time series study in 749 locations,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/S2542-5196(21)00200-X
Credit: Shutterstock

South Australia has begun a trial of a new COVID app to monitor arrivals into the state. SA Premier Steven Marshall claimed "every South Australian should feel pretty proud that we are the national pilot for the home-based quarantine app."

He then doubled down with the boast that he was "pretty sure the technology that we have developed within the South Australia government will become the national standard and will be rolled out across the country."

Victoria too has announced impending "technologically supported" home quarantine, though details remain unclear. Home quarantine will also eventually be available for international arrivals, according to Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

The South Australian app has received little attention in Australia, but in the US the left-leaning Atlantic magazine called it "as Orwellian as any in the free world". Right-wing outlets such as Fox News and Breitbart also joined the attack, and for once I find myself in agreement with them.

Location tracking and facial recognition

Despite the SA Premier's claims, this isn't the first such app to be used in Australia. A similar home-quarantine app is already in use for arrivals into WA, and in some cases the Northern Territory.

Both apps uses geolocation and facial recognition software to track and identify those in quarantine. Users are required to prove they are at home when randomly prompted by the application.

In SA, you have 15 minutes to get the face recognition software to verify you're still at home. In WA, it is more of a race. You have just 5 minutes before you risk a knock on the door from the police.

Another difference is that the SA app is opt-in. Currently. The WA app is already mandatory for arrivals from high risk areas like Victoria. For extreme risk areas like NSW, it's straight into a quarantine hotel.

The South Australian home quarantine app uses facial recognition software to identify users. Credit: Government of South Australia

Reasons for concern

But why are we developing such home-quarantine apps in the first place, when we already have a cheap technology to do this? If we want to monitor that people are at home (and that's a big if), wouldn't one of the ankle tags already used by our corrective services for home detention be much simpler, safer and more robust?

There are many reasons to be concerned about home-quarantine apps.

First, they'll likely be much easier to hack than ankle tags. How many of us have hacked geo-blocks to access Netflix in the US, or to watch other digital content from another country? Faking GPS location on a smartphone is not much more difficult.

Second, facial recognition software is often flawed, and is frequently biased against people of color and against women. The documentary Coded Bias does a great job unpicking these biases.

Despite years of effort, even the big tech giants like Google and Amazon have been unable to eliminate these biases from their software. I have little hope the SA government or the WA company GenVis, the developers of the two Australian home-quarantine apps, will have done better.

Indeed, the Australian Human Rights Commission has called for a moratorium on the use of facial recognition software in high-risk settings such as policing until better regulation is in place to protect human rights and privacy.

Third, there needs to be a much more detailed and public debate around issues like privacy, and safeguards put in place based on this discussion, in advance of the technology being used.

With COVID check-in apps, we were promised the data would only be used for public health purposes. But police forces around Australia have accessed this information for other ends on at least six occasions. This severely undermines the public's confidence and use of such apps.

The documentary Coded Bias explains the common inbuilt flaws of facial recognition software.

Before it was launched, the Commonwealth's COVIDSafe app had legislative prohibitions put in place on the use of the data collected for anything but contact tracing. This perhaps gave us a false sense of security as the state-produced COVID check-in apps did not have any such legal safeguards. Only some states have retrospectively introduced legislation to provide such protections.

Fourth, we have to worry about how software like this legitimizes technologies like facial recognition that ultimately erode fundamental rights such as the right to privacy.

If home-quarantine apps work successfully, will they open the door to facial recognition being used in other settings? To identify shop lifters? To provide access to welfare? Or to healthcare? What Orwellian world will this take us to?

The perils of facial recognition

In China, we have already seen facial recognition software used to monitor and persecute the Uighur minority. In the US, at least three Black people have already wrongly ended up in jail due to facial recognition errors.

Facial recognition is a technology that is dangerous if it doesn't work (as it often the case). And dangerous if it does. It changes the speed, scale and cost of surveillance.

With facial recognition software behind the CCTV cameras found on many street corners, you can be tracked 24/7. You are no longer anonymous when you go out to the shops. Or when you protest about Black lives mattering or the climate emergency.

High technology is not the solution

High tech software like facial recognition isn't a fix for the problems that have plagued Australia's response to the pandemic. It can't remedy the failure to buy enough vaccines, the failure to build dedicated quarantine facilities, or the in-fighting and point-scoring between states and with the Commonwealth.

I never thought I'd say this but, all in all, I think I'd prefer an ankle tag. And if the image of the ankle tag seems too unsettling for you, we could do what Hong Kong has done and make it a wristband.

Explore further Amazon to extend ban on police use of face recognition tech

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Sea surface skin temperature anomalies in November 2007 showing La Nina conditions. Credit: NASA Earth Observatory

The weather phenomenon La Nina could resurface before the end of 2021, after petering out four months ago, the UN said Thursday, predicting above-average temperatures despite its generally cooling influence.

The World Meteorological Organization said that there was now a 40-percent chance that La Nina, which last held the globe in its clutches between August 2020 and May, would reappear again by year-end.

"But despite La Nina's cooling influence, temperatures over land areas are expected to be above average between September and November, especially in the northern hemisphere," the UN agency said in a statement.

La Nina refers to the large-scale cooling of surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, occurring every two to seven years.

The effect has widespread impacts on weather around the worldtypically the opposite impacts to the El Nino phenomenon, which has a warming influence on global temperatures.

But WMO warned that global warming is helping to worsen and distort the effects of such natural phenomena.

"Human induced climate change amplifies the impacts of naturally occurring events like La Nina and is increasingly influencing our weather patterns," WMO chief Petteri Taalas said in a statement.

He pointed to the more intense heat and drought, which boost the risk of wildfires, as well as widespread flooding.

"We have seen this with devastating and tragic effect in the past few months in nearly all regions of the world," he said, warning that "climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of disasters."

WMO said that if La Nina does reappear, it is expected to be weak, and its temporary global cooling effects will not be enough to prevent temperatures from climbing higher than normal.

Temperatures are expected to be mostly above average over the central and eastern part of North America, northern Asia and the Arctic, as well as over central and eastern parts of Africa and southern South America, it said.

The UN agency meanwhile said the typical rainfall anomalies generally associated with La Nina could still be expected.

Southern parts of South America for instance risked below-normal precipitation, while the north could see more rain than normal.

From the Mediterranean to the Arabian Peninsula and into central Asia, below-normal rainfall was also likely, it said.

Explore further La Nina climate cycle has peaked: UN

 2021 AFP
A Cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) approaches one of the baited camera surveys carried out by researchers in the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area. Credit: University of Plymouth

Protecting areas of the ocean and coastlines with "whole-site" Marine Protected Area (MPA) status can result in four-fold increases in the abundance and diversity of fish populations, a new study has shown.

Researchers from the University of Plymouth have been monitoring the impact of the Lyme Bay MPA since it was designated in 2008.

They found the number of different fish species inside the controlled zone is now more than four times (430%) greater than found outside the MPA's boundaries.

In terms of overall abundance, there are 370% more fish to be found within the MPA than in similar areas outside it where bottom-towed fishing are still permitted.

The study also showed the range of commercially important fish species outside the MPA rose over the 11-year period following the designation.

Taken together, they say it demonstrates the importance of implementing whole-site protection for marine habitatswhere the most the destructive activities such as scallop-dredging are excluded from the whole MPAand how such a practice can benefit and maintain sustainable fisheries and species of conservation importance.

The study, published in the Journal of Applied Ecology, is the result of regular monitoring using underwater video cameras.

A Lobster (Homarus gammarus) and pout (Trisopterus luscus) examine the baited camera in the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area. Credit: University of Plymouth

Every year, researchers have recorded baited video surveys inside and outside boundaries of the MPA to monitor the area's fish population.

Over 11 years, that has resulted in sightings of more than 13,000 individual organisms ranging from small scavenging invertebrates such as whelks, starfish and hermit crabs to large, highly mobile predatory vertebrates such as sharks and rays.

Bede Davies, who is currently completing his Ph.D. at the University of Plymouth, is the study's lead author. He said: "This research is the culmination of years of hard work and collaboration between researchers from the University and the fishers of Lyme Bay. It shows how the compromise between conservation and fisheries management can affect whole ecosystems, local habitats and those who rely on them. It also highlights the need for long term monitoring of MPAs and that, when managed appropriately, they can provide significant benefits to fisheries and conservation."

The Lyme Bay MPA was the UK's first and largest example of an ambitious, whole-site approach to marine protection, which was designed to manage, recover and protect reef biodiversity by considering the whole ecosystem.

It has excluded bottom-towed fishing across 206km2 of waters off the southern coast of England, protecting a mosaic of habitats from regular damage, while still allowing less destructive fishing methods, such as static gear, rod and line, and diving.

A compilation of clips taken during baited video surveys in 2019 showing just some of the fish species observed in the Lyme Bay Marine Protected Area. Credit: University of Plymouth

The University's work in Lyme Bay, which has been funded at various stages by Defra, Natural England, the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund and the Blue Marine Foundation, has been carried out in conjunction with local fishers and other community groups along the Dorset and Devon coastline.

Recommendations from this ongoing work have been included within the Government's 25-year Environment Plan, and a major UK government report into Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs), led by former Defra Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon.

Dr. Emma Sheehan, Associate Professor of Marine Ecology (Research), has led the University's work in Lyme Bay and is the current study's senior author.

She added: "Globally, the implementation of MPAs has increased rapidly over the last 25 years. They are a key element of international plans to protect and preserve the ocean however, as things stand, only 7.9% of the world's ocean is covered by such protection. Our ongoing work in Lyme Bay has shown the positive effects of addressing that, and in the face of the global climate and biodiversity crises the need to do so has never been more pressing."

Explore further Seabed recovers more quickly following extreme storms than from the impacts of bottom-towed fishing

More information: Bede F. R. Davies et al, Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management worksHow switching from mobile to static fishing gear improves populations of fished and nonfished species inside a marineprotected area, Journal of Applied Ecology (2021). Journal information: Journal of Applied Ecology Bede F. R. Davies et al, Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries Management worksHow switching from mobile to static fishing gear improves populations of fished and nonfished species inside a marineprotected area,(2021). DOI: 10.1111/1365-2664.13986
Gabriel Popescu, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, was part of a team that combined label-free microscopic imaging with artificial intelligence to quickly detect and classify SARS-CoV-2 and other diseases. Credit: Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technolog

Beckman researchers paired microscopy with artificial intelligence to develop a COVID-19 test that's fast, accurate, and cost-effective. All we need to do is say "ahh."

Many of us have encountered or experienced a COVID-19 test. Like the pandemic itself, frequent screening has become part of daily life. As SARS-CoV-2 continues to be a formidable foe, our strategies to detect and classify the virus must remain agile and sophisticated.

Enter Beckman researcher Gabriel Popescu, a UIUC professor of electrical and computer engineering, and his interdisciplinary team. Their study, "Label-free SARS-CoV-2 detection and classification using phase imaging with computational specificity," was published in Light: Science and Applications-Nature.

Beginning in May of 2020 and coming to fruition amid a global crisis, the project's timeline runs parallel to the pandemic that prompted it. Characteristic of a Beckman team, the researchers' first step was identifying an opportunity to innovate; they observed that while many techniques currently exist to test for SARS-CoV-2, none use a label-free optical approach.

The miniscule size of a single particle makes relying on sight alone a near impossibility, even with a microscope. Electron microscopy is useful for imaging a particle's structure, but extensive preparation is required to ensure a sample's visibility. Though necessary, this process can obscure the desired image.

Popescu's team turned to a technique developed at Beckman typically reserved for visualizing cells: spatial light image microscopy, which facilitates chemical-free (or label-free) imaging.

"An electron microscope provides a clear image, but it requires extensive sample preparation," said Neha Goswami, a graduate student in bioengineering and a 2021 recipient of Beckman Institute's Nadine Barrie Smith Memorial Fellowship. "Applying SLIM for virus imaging is like looking at something without your glasses on. The image is blurry due to the viruses being smaller than the diffraction limit. However, owing to the high sensitivity of SLIM, we can not only detect the viruses, but also differentiate between different types."

Fortunately, the researchers identified a creative way to identify the viruses based on SLIM data: artificial intelligence. With the right training, an advanced deep neural network can be programmed to recognize even the blurriest of images.

They introduced the AI program to a pair of images: a stained SARS-CoV-2 particle producing fluorescence, and a phase image captured with a fluorescence-SLIM multimodal microscope. The AI is trained to recognize these images as one and the same. Easily recognizable, the fluorescence-stained image functions like training wheels; with enough repetition, the machine learns to detect the viruses directly from the SLIM, label-free images without the added support.

After detection comes differentiation: discerning SARS-CoV-2 from other types of viruses and particles.

"We made life tough on the machine," Goswami said. "We gave it dust, beads, and other viruses to train and learn to pick the virus out of a crowd as opposed to identifying when it is by itself."

The AI learned to discern between SARS-CoV-2 and other viral pathogens such as H1N1, or influenza A; HAdV, or adenovirus; and ZIKV, or Zika virus. The preclinical trial was highly successful, resulting in a 96% success rate for SARS-CoV-2 detection and classification.

"This notable success is due to our team of experts from several different disciplines who came together with a unique goal: to create the fastest, most affordable and scalable test possible. Our current efforts are focused on demonstrating this approach in the clinic and deploying it worldwide for COVID and potentially other infectious diseases," Popescu said.

The project's goal is a sensitive and specific viral breath test detection system that aids in viral diagnostics and in transmission prevention strategies; today, this could take the form of a rapid, high-throughput, low-cost COVID-19 test with the potential for portability and point-of-care action.

With clinical validation pending, researchers speculate that a COVID-19 test conducted with this method would look something like this: the subject would wear a face shield, onto which a clear glass slide would be attached; they would then complete an activity wherein their breath becomes fixed to the slide (like reading a paragraph out loud). The slide, and any particles attached to it, would be imaged and analyzed to detect any viruses present.

"There are two key advantages to this kind of COVID test," Goswami said. "The first is speed: the duration can be of the order of one minute. The second is that we are not adding any chemicals or modifications to the samples provided. All we'd be paying for is the cost of the face shield and the slide itself."

From a clinical perspective, the impact of such innovative diagnosing capabilities is pronounced.

"Early intervention via rapid diagnosis of COVID-19, combined with contact tracing, will significantly reduce COVID-19 transmission, morbidity, and mortality," said Nahed Ismail, a professor of pathology and medical director of the Clinical Microbiology Lab at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

This highly adaptive AI programming could help address future pandemics, not just COVID-19.

"We need fast detection of diseases," Goswami said. "Not only COVID, but others. We can and should put our efforts together, both in terms of optics and AI, to try and find out just how far we can go."

This cutting-edge research is a result of collaboration between scientists from the Beckman Institute, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, and the University of Illinois at Chicago.

"The amazing thing about this project is that we can bring lab work to clinical trials in a very short time," said Helen Nguyen, the Ivan Racheff Professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering at UIUC and project collaborator.

Explore further Scientists develop faster COVID-19 test

More information: Neha Goswami et al, Label-free SARS-CoV-2 detection and classification using phase imaging with computational specificity, Light: Science & Applications (2021). Journal information: Light: Science & Applications Neha Goswami et al, Label-free SARS-CoV-2 detection and classification using phase imaging with computational specificity,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-021-00620-8
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

A brutal summer of record heat and punishing drought has claimed yet another California victim: the majestic, snow-covered slopes of Mount Shasta.

Just as the impacts of global warming have revealed themselves in extreme wildfire behavior and plunging reservoir levels, climate change is now altering the skyline of far Northern California and wreaking havoc on communities surrounding the dormant volcano.

The unseasonable disappearance of Mount Shasta's postcard-perfect snowpack has not only turned the landmark's peak from white to brown but has also hastened the melting of mountain glaciers, unleashing thunderous torrents of mud, boulders and trees that have destroyed bridges, made roads impassable and threatened water infrastructure. Flows of volcanic ash also have turned once-green meadows into ghostly gray moonscapes.

"It's scary. The pace of change right now on Mount Shasta seems very fast, and its glaciers are getting smaller at a rate that makes me sad," said Andy Calvert, scientist in charge at Mount Shasta for the U.S. Geological Survey.

"The principal problem now is mudflows," he said. "They are sudden releases of water that scour out stream channels and pick up rocks and dirt on the way down, leaving a muddy mess."

For motorists plying Interstate 5where Shasta commands constant attention, either through the windshield or the rearview mirrorthe loss of snow on the 14,179-foot peak is a matter of curiosity. But for those who live at the base of the volcano, it is life altering.

Richie Fesler, superintendent of public works for McCloud, a community of restored historic buildings on Mount Shasta's southern flanks, was at home a few miles away on a recent Sunday when he heard what he described as "an oceanic roar that made the ground shake and the pines tremble."

Fesler knew exactly what the sound was: Yet another flash flood was ripping through nearby Mud Creek, where a series of earlier deluges had washed out a 75-year-old concrete dam and nearly buried a pipeline. The World War II-era pipe, suspended 15 feet above the creek bed, supplies McCloud with spring water so pure it doesn't need chlorination.

The area surrounding the dam, which was built to protect the town of 715 residents from catastrophic flooding, has been replaced by an expanse of toppled trees that protrude grotesquely from a layer of mud more than 15 feet thick.

"Hard to believe," Fesler said, gazing out at the sprawling debris field, "that just a few months ago this place was nothing but glorious forest, meadows, and huckleberries and delicious mushrooms coming out of your ears."

Typically, a lot of snow is visible on Shasta in June and July. But this year was unusually dry, hot and windy, so the insulating snowpack that had accumulated on Shasta's glaciers was gone by early June, exposing bone-dry slopes of gray volcanic ash and leaving local streams vulnerable to chocolate-colored flows of mud.

The climactic conditions now transforming Mount Shasta's landscape are the same that have exacerbated crop losses, water shortages, spikes in hazardous air pollution and extreme wildfires across California and the American West. (Those fires include the massive Caldor fire, which is now clouding Lake Tahoe's famously clear water about 100 miles to the east.)

At Shasta, the effects were all too clear in the run-up to Labor Day weekend.

The air was thick with smoke and ash from surrounding wildfires. Grasslands had withered to bare earth. Thousands of oak trees had jettisoned their leaves to conserve water. At Lake Shasta, one of the largest and most scenic reservoirs in the U.S., water levels had plunged to their lowest in 44 years, exposing a bathtub-style ring of bare dirt and rocks more than 100 feet wide. Popular trails and scenic vistas were ordered closed due to wildfire concerns.

Brendan Hickey, resort manager at Mount Shasta Ski Park, struggles to keep up with visitors arriving each day with the question: "What happened to the snow?"

"It's been a tough year for Mount Shasta," he explains. "In the past, Mount Shasta had year-round snow on its summit. But this summer is different. The white patches you see today are glacialnot snow.

"The glaciers are melting very quickly this year," he adds, grimly. "Our hearts are with our neighbors who are currently affected by mudflows and wildfires."

Calvert described the hydrologic dynamics re-contouring Shasta as "cryptic and complex."

The bottoms of glaciers are scoured, and they contain crevasses that fill with water, he said. "Some of these places can block a lot of glacial melt, until there is a sudden release."

The mudflows making life miserable in McCloud, he said, have been bursting out of Konwakiton Glacier, an ice sheet just below Shasta's summit that feeds runoff into Mud Creek.

It is not the first time that mudflows have plagued the region. In 1924, 1926 and in the 1930s, a series of debris flows threatened McCloud and muddied streams and rivers all the way to the Bay Area, more than 220 miles to the southwest. Another major outburst of mud and debris occurred during California's severe drought of 1976.

But the flows are expected to become more frequent in California, the Pacific Northwest and other parts of the world as glaciers succumb to warming temperatures, reduced snowpack and earlier snowmelt.

A recent U.S. Geological Survey inventory suggests the total glacier and perennial snowfall area in the American West may have decreased as much as 39% since the mid-20th century.

"Hazardous mudflows blasting out from glaciers in retreat are something we expect on volcanos from Mount Shasta north into Canada as the climate gets warmer," said Andrew Fountain, professor emeritus in the geology department at Portland State University.

In the meantime, a combination of pitiless shifts in extreme weather and aging water conveyance systems are making it increasingly difficult for McCloud crews to contain mudflows that burst from Konwakiton Glacier like a cork from a bottle of Champagne.

The $30,000 a month it costs to rent a heavy excavator came out of the McCloud Community Services District budget. The machine scoops mud and then "waterfalls" it gently onto new piles along the creek, Fesler said, in hopes of preventing future floods from breaching its banks.

The excavator is only operated in the cool of the morning, when mudflow events are less likely to occur. As a precautionary measure, however, spotters with hand-held radios take positions upstream to provide warnings of impending danger, which could be lifesaving.

Over the past two weeks, the excavator has removed an estimated 36,000 cubic yards of mud from under the suspended pipeline that delivers spring water to town.

But forecasts of a heat wave lasting into September are worrisome.

"We're well aware that another big mudflow could wipe out everything we've accomplished in a matter of hours," said Amos McAbier, general manager of the McCloud Community Services District.

"We're doing the best we can with what we have and trying not to lose too much sleep over it."

Explore further An ominous mudslide on a depleted Mount Shasta

2021 Los Angeles Times.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Intact tropical forest in the Congo Basin surrounding a protected area. Credit: Zuzana BurIvalova

Protected forests are unlikely to be cut down when they are surrounded by intact forests. Conversely, the more degraded the boundaries of a protected area are, the more likely that deforestation will encroach into the protected forest as well.

These findings come from a new analysis of protected forests worldwide. The results have the potential to help national governments and other agencies direct limited resources toward those areas at greatest risk of deforestation, which threatens biodiversity and releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

"We wanted to find out what happens to the forests in protected areas when there is less and less forest around themwhen their buffer zone starts getting less dense and more like a mosaic of forest and fields," says Zuzana Burivalova, lead author of the new study and a professor of forest and wildlife ecology at the University of WisconsinMadison. "Based on the percentage of forest cover around a national park, we can now predict and say, 'Okay, you should be careful right now' or 'You don't have to worry just yet.'"

With other researchers at UWMadison, Colorado State University and the Indian Institute of Science, Burivalova published her findings Aug. 18 in the journal Current Biology.

Edge of lowland tropical forest with oil palm plantation encroaching, in East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia. When the area surrounding a protected forest starts to be cut down, the protected area is more likely to face deforestation in the future. Credit: Zuzana BurIvalova

By using satellite imagery of every protected forest around the worldlargely made up of national parks and forestsBurivalova's team analyzed the trends of forest loss both within those protected areas and in the territory extending 5 kilometers from the boundary. The researchers studied forest loss from 2000 to 2018 and made predictions for the next 18 years, up to 2036.

They discovered that when more than 90% of the boundary zone remains forested, the protected area is likely to experience little or no deforestation. When the adjacent territory drops to about 20% forest cover, the protected area starts to lose forest cover at equal rates to the nearby region as if it is no longer protected.

Although satellite imagery analysis alone cannot determine why nearby deforestation threatens protected forests, the researchers suspect that multiple factors contribute. Adjacent farms may run out of land and start expanding into the protected area, or new roads may make access to the national park easier, for example. In both scenarios, the nearby region would experience forest loss first.

The researchers have published detailed results and the code used to analyze the images so that government agencies charged with protecting the lands can make better predictions.

Intact tropical forest in a National Park in the Congo Basin. Credit: Zuzana BurIvalova

"They are the ones who have to decide how many resourcesrangers, firefighters, moneyto dedicate to each national park. I think with our results, national agencies can see easily which national park is most at risk," says Burivalova, who began studying protected forests while working in Madagascar.

Based on current trends, the scientists predict that two-thirds of protected areas will experience little forest loss through 2036. However, any acceleration in average forest loss would greatly increase the number of protected forests at risk.

The protected forests in poorer tropical countries are often at risk from local residents who clear trees to support subsistence farming or important cash crops. This can easily lead to scapegoating of residents who worked nearby land before any protections were established and who are responding to incentives to make a living. That scapegoating is counterproductive, says Burivalova.

"I think it's important for any agency to be mindful that they are the ones in a position of power and they may be pushing out local people where that protection is being established," she says. "Agencies should always keep this in mind when assessing risks and figuring out how to mitigate them so they are working with the people rather than against them."

More information: Zuzana Burivalova et al, Early warning sign of forest loss in protected areas, Current Biology (2021). Journal information: Current Biology Zuzana Burivalova et al, Early warning sign of forest loss in protected areas,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2021.07.072
Credit: Oregon State University

Rather than ocean oxygen levels improving as they usually do this time of year, hypoxia off the Pacific Northwest coast is as bad as it's been at any point in 2021, according to collaborative research by Oregon State University, the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife and Oregon's crabbing industry.

The Northwest for two decades has had a "hypoxia season" that begins in mid-summer, said OSU marine ecologist Francis Chan, and climate change is making those low-oxygen seasons worse. When oxygen levels drop significantly, many marine organisms that are place-bound or cannot relocate quickly enough, such as Dungeness crabs, die of oxygen starvation.

"Back in April, we predicted it would be a bad hypoxia year because of the weather, and it's turned out to be a really bad year," Chan said. "Oxygen levels got very low, very early, and the worst is not over. On Aug. 31, it was as close to zero as we'd seen this year. Now we're in September, at a time when we thought oxygen would have been rising for a while, and it's just this endless summer, but in a bad way."

While Chan was at sea making measurements off the central Oregon coast in late August, oceanographer Jack Barth from OSU's College of Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences and co-principal investigator with Chan in the Partnership for Interdisciplinary Studies of Coastal Oceans, was off the central Washington coast tracking subsurface dissolved oxygen with an autonomous underwater glider.

These glider measurements, with observations from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration-funded Northwest Association of Networked Ocean Observing Systems, show that very low oxygen levels also extend into Washington waters.

Hypoxia occurs because summertime north winds bring nutrient-rich but oxygen-poor ocean waters to shoresfactors that are exacerbated by climate change, said Chan, who directs the Cooperative Institute for Marine Ecosystem and Resources Studies. The institute is led by OSU and funded by NOAA.

This year, these summertime north winds arrived earlier than at any time in 35 years and are still going strong, said Barth. Early and strong north winds supercharge the upwelling of low-oxygen waters and nutrients from depths that fuel an exceptionally productive food web.

But it becomes too much of good thing because as those organisms die and sink, they remove oxygen from the water, making the problem worse, said Barth. On top of that, deep waters that are brought to shore are holding less and less oxygen because of climate change.

This spring a NOAA-sponsored scientific cruise detected a huge hypoxic area only six miles offshore from Oregon and Washington. By midsummer the growing low-oxygen area was approaching 8,000 square miles, leaving scientists and fisherman worried it would become a massive dead zone.

Exacerbating the effects of hypoxia is ocean acidification, which is being driven by rising levels of atmospheric carbon resulting from the burning of fossil fuels.

Commercial fishermen have long been key to the study of hypoxia, said Chan, whose research was prompted years ago by one of them calling to tell him of dead crabs.

Since then scientists led by Chan have teamed with Dungeness fishermen, using a sensor he developed that's deployed within crab pots. The data the sensors gather aid the study of the evolving ocean and also help crabbers learn where hypoxia might be hindering their efforts.

Oregon's Dungeness fleet produces an average annual catch of 16.7 million pounds, according to the Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission. This year's catch was just over 12 million pounds; however, the industry is naturally variable, ranging in recent years from 3 million pounds to 33 million.

"But how are these hypoxia seasons going to be affecting the next two, three or four years?" said Tim Novotny, assistant administrator and communications manager for the commission. "How many females, who we do not harvest, are not making it through these zones?"

Explore further Crab larvae off Oregon and Washington suffering shell damage from ocean acidification, new research shows
The pulse profiles of PSR J0250+5854 at different radio frequencies. Credit: Agar et al., 2021.

Using ground-based facilities, an international team of astronomers has conducted a broadband radio study of a slowly rotating radio pulsar known as PSR J0250+5854. Results of this investigation, published September 1 on the arXiv pre-print server, provide more insights into the nature of this source.

Extraterrestrial sources of radiation with a regular periodicity, known as pulsars, are usually detected in the form of short bursts of radio emission. Radio pulsars are generally described as highly magnetized, rapidly rotating neutron stars with a lighthouse beam of radiation that produces the pulsed emission.

With a period of 23.5 seconds, PSR J0250+5854 is the slowest-spinning radio pulsar known to date. It spins about two times slower than the second slowest-spinning radio pulsar, designated PSR J22513711, and almost three times slower than the well-studied pulsar PSR J21443933. Previous observations have shown that PSR J0250+5854 has an extremely large light-cylinder (with a radius of about 1.12 million kilometers) and a tiny polar cap (with an estimated diameter of some 60 meters).

Recently, a team of researchers led by Crispin Agar of the University of Manchester, UK, decided to inspect PSR J0250+5854 in order to shed more light on its properties. For this purpose, they performed radio observations of this pulsar using the Five hundred meter Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST), the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR), and the New Extension in Nancay Upgrading loFAR (NenuFAR).

"We have obtained the highest- and lowest-frequency radio detections of PSR J0250+5854, the most slowly rotating radio-emitting pulsar known, using simultaneous observations from 57 MHz to 1250 MHz," the authors of the paper wrote.

The observations carried out by Agar's team resulted in the first detection of PSR J0250+5854 at frequencies between 1.0 and 1.5 GHz using FAST. Moreover, the NenuFAR detection of PSR J0250+5854 at 57 MHz was the lowest frequency detection of this pulsar ever reported.

The study found that PSR J0250+5854 has a flux density of 4.0 Jy at 1250 MHz and a spectral index of approximately 3.5, with a turnover below 95 MHz. It was noted that the spectral index is exceptionally steep when compared to the mean found for the pulsar populationbetween -1.6 and -1.4.

Furthermore, the pulse profile of PSR J0250+5854 shows narrowing at lower frequencies, contrary to the expectations of radius-to-frequency mapping. It was also found that the pulsar's polar cap radio emission is produced at an absolute height of several hundreds of kilometers around 1.5 GHz.

"This confirms that the radio beam is very narrow, as expected for such a slow pulsar. Furthermore, the lack of a delay between the profile peak and position angle curve inflection point implies that the emission height of PSR J0250+5854 at 1250 MHz is low, consistent with those found for other non-recycled pulsars," the astronomers explained.

Explore further Slowest-spinning radio pulsar detected by astronomers

More information: A broadband radio study of PSR J0250+5854: the slowest-spinning radio pulsar known, arXiv:2109.00266 [astro-ph.HE] Journal information: arXiv A broadband radio study of PSR J0250+5854: the slowest-spinning radio pulsar known, arXiv:2109.00266 [astro-ph.HE] arxiv.org/abs/2109.00266

 2021 Science X Network
School learners in Mabushe C school, Namibia. Credit: Eberhard Kanyanga. Wikimedia Commons/CC by-SA 4.0

The doctoral dissertation of Josephina Jekonia, Med, explores both the relationship between parenting styles, parental involvement and children's academic performance.

Parenting styles and parental involvement in academic-related work have been consistently associated with children's school performance. Parental involvement is believed to be one of the most significant methods of increasing educational outcomes. According to previous research, parental involvement activities impact children's educational outcomes through learning activities, starting from asking questions to actions aimed at creating tactical understanding and the ability to solve problems. However, the association between parenting styles, the involvement of parents and children's academic performance has been rarely studied in other than Western educational contexts, thus presenting the need to extend the study to non-Western contexts. The aim of Jekonia's Ph.D. study was to examine the relationship between parenting styles, parental involvement and academic performance pertaining to primary school children in Namibia. The study further examined differences between groups of parents in relations to their demographic background (gender and parents' education level). The results showed that parenting style and parental involvement were correlated primarily with school performance of the Namibian children. The findings revealed that mothers were more authoritative (child-centered) which consistently increased their level of participation in school activities and subsequently resulted in good performance of their children. Considering that fathers are more authoritarian (adult-centered) in their parenting than mothers, it is imperative that schools should educate parents on the consequences of different parenting styles.

The study employs mixed method design. The information was gathered from parents of senior primary school children through survey, focus group and individual interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using statistical methods such as multiple linear regression analysis, principal components analysis (PCA), Pearson correlations, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and k-means cluster analysis. The closed-ended questions were analyzed using the cross tabulation with chi-square test. Six phases of thematic analysis were utilized to analyze the data from the interviews.

New knowledge was revealed about the relationship between parenting styles, parental involvement and children's academic performance. Future research should assess these relationships drawing on the experiences of individual children or group of children to support those of their parents.

The doctoral dissertation on Josephina Jekonia, Master of Education, The Relationship Between Parenting Styles, Parental Involvement and Children's Academic Performance in Namibian Senior Primary Schools, will be examined at the Philosophical Faculty. The Opponent in the public examination will be Professor Marja-Kristiina Lerkkanen (University of Jyvaskyla). The Custos will be Professor Pertti Vaisanen of the University of Eastern Finland. The public examination will be held in English.

Explore further Parental monitoring and consistency in adolescence can reduce young Black men's likelihood of criminal behavior
Different samples that were used in this study are shown from top right to bottom in clockwise direction: N95 respirator, KN95 respirator, surgical mask, wash/dry sample coupon, 2-ply bandana and cloth mask. Credit: Marina Vance

The reusable cloth masks people have been using for the past year or more may look a little worse for the wear. But new research from the University of Colorado Boulder finds that washing and drying them doesn't reduce their ability to filter out viral particles.

"It's good news for sustainability," said lead author Marina Vance, assistant professor in the Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering. "That cotton mask that you have been washing, drying and reusing? It's probably still finedon't throw it away."

The study, published in the journal Aerosol and Air Quality Research, also confirms previous research that layering a cotton mask on top of a surgical maskproperly fit on one's faceprovides more protection than cloth alone.

Science for sustainability

Since the start of the pandemic, an estimated 7,200 tons of medical waste has been generated every daymuch of which is disposable masks.

"We were really bothered during the beginning of the pandemic, when going out on a hike or going downtown, and seeing all these disposable masks littering the environment," said Vance, who is also on the faculty in the environmental engineering program.

So Vance was eager to join forces when scientists at the nearby National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) approached her about studying how washing and drying impacts reusable cloth masks.

Their process was quite simple: create double-layered squares of cotton, put them through repeated washing and drying (up to 52 times, the equivalent of a weekly wash for a year) and test them between about every 7 cleaning cycles.

While the masks were not testing using real peopleinstead, they were mounted on one end of a steel funnel through which researchers could control a consistent flow of air and airborne particlesthe researchers tested the masks using realistic to real-life conditions, with high humidity levels and temperatures to mimics the impact on the mask from our breathing.

While the cotton fibers started falling apart over time after repeating washing and drying, the researchers found that did not significantly affect the cloth's filtration efficiency.

The only noticeable change was that inhalation resistance slightly increased, meaning that the mask may feel a bit more difficult to breathe through after some wear and tear.

Mask fit is critical

A key caveat is that they conducted the testing using a "perfect fit" in the lab.

"We're assuming there are no gaps between the mask material and the person's face," said Vance.

The shape of each person's face varies significantly. So depending on a mask's shape and how well the person adjusts it, it may or may not fit snugly. Previous research has shown that a poorly-fit mask can let as many as 50% of airborne particles we breathe in and out slip throughas well as the virus.

So what mask should you wear?

This study is not the first to find that cloth masks provide less protection than surgical masks or a layered combination of surgical and cloth masks.

Measuring for how well the mask filtered air being breathed inprotecting the person wearing the mask, not reducing transmission from the sourcethis study found that the cotton cloth masks filtered out up to 23% of the smallest particle size (0.3 microns) on which the virus can travel. Bandanas filtered even less, at only 9%.

In comparison, surgical masks filtered out between 42-88% of the tiny particles, and cotton masks on top of surgical masks reached close to 40% filtration efficiency. KN95 and N95 masks unsurprisingly performed the best, filtering out 83-99% of these particles.

But while this study found that cloth masks alone provide less protection from the virus than a layered approach or disposable masks, such as surgical masks, KN95s and N95s, it remains important information for those who rely on cloth for its comfort, affordability and reusability, said Vance.

"I think the best mask might be the one that you're actually going to wear," said Vance. "And that is going to fit snugly against your face without being too uncomfortable."

Explore further Sneeze cam reveals best fabric combos for cloth masks

More information: Sumit Sankhyan et al, Filtration Performance of Layering Masks and Face Coverings and the Reusability of Cotton Masks after Repeated Washing and Drying, Aerosol and Air Quality Research (2021). Sumit Sankhyan et al, Filtration Performance of Layering Masks and Face Coverings and the Reusability of Cotton Masks after Repeated Washing and Drying,(2021). DOI: 10.4209/aaqr.210117
Ice capped and snow-covered mountains of coastal west Greenland. (Apr. 2015). Credit: Matthew Osman / Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Greenland may be best known for its enormous continental scale ice sheet that soars up to 3,000 meters above sea level, whose rapid melting is a leading contributor to global sea level rise. But surrounding this massive ice sheet, which covers 79% of the world's largest island, is Greenland's rugged coastline dotted with ice capped mountainous peaks. These peripheral glaciers and ice caps are now also undergoing severe melting due to anthropogenic (human-caused) warming. However, climate warming and the loss of these ice caps may not have always gone hand-in-hand.

New collaborative research from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and five partner institutions (University of Arizona, University of Washington, Pennsylvania State University, Desert Research Institute and University of Bergen), published today in Nature Geoscience, reveals that during past periods, glaciers and ice caps in coastal west Greenland experienced climate conditions much different than the interior of Greenland. Over the past 2,000 years, these ice caps endured periods of warming during which they grew larger rather than shrinking.

This novel study breaks down the climate history displayed in a core taken from an ice cap off Greenland's western coast. According to the study's researchers, while ice core drilling has been ongoing in Greenland since the mid-20th century, coastal ice core studies remain extremely limited, and these new findings are providing a new perspective on climate change compared to what scientists previously understood by using ice cores from the interior portions of the Greenland ice sheet alone.

"Glaciers and ice caps are unique high-resolution repositories of Earth's climate history, and ice core analysis allows scientists to examine how environmental changeslike shifts in precipitation patterns and global warmingaffect rates of snowfall, melting, and in turn influence ice cap growth and retreat," said Sarah Das, Associate Scientist of Geology and Geophysics at WHOI. "Looking at differences in climate change recorded across several ice core records allows us to compare and contrast the climate history and ice response across different regions of the Arctic." However, during the course of this study, it also became clear that many of these coastal ice caps are now melting so substantially that these incredible archives are in great peril of disappearing forever.

Due to the challenging nature of studying and accessing these ice caps, this team was the first to do such work, centering their study, which began in 2015, around a core collected from the Nuussuaq Peninsula in Greenland. This single core offers insight into how coastal climate conditions and ice cap changes covaried during the last 2,000 years, due to tracked changes in its chemical composition and the amount of snowfall archived year after year in the core. Through their analysis, investigators found that during periods of past warming, ice caps were growing rather than melting, contradicting what we see in the present day.

"Currently, we know Greenland's ice caps are melting due to warming, further contributing to sea level rise. But, we have yet to explore how these ice caps have changed in the past due to changes in climate," said Matthew Osman, postdoctoral research associate at the University of Arizona and a 2019 graduate of the MIT-WHOI Joint program. "The findings of this study were a surprise because we see that there is an ongoing shift in the fundamental response of these ice caps to climate: Today, they're disappearing, but in the past, within small degrees of warming, they actually tended to grow."

According to Das and Osman, this phenomenon happens because of a "tug-of-war" between what causes an ice cap to grow (increased precipitation) or recede (increased melting) during periods of warming. Today, scientists observe melting rates that are outpacing the rate of annual snowfall atop ice caps. However, in past centuries these ice caps would expand due to increased levels of precipitation brought about by warmer temperatures. The difference between the past and present is the severity of modern anthropogenic warming.

The team gathered this data by drilling through an ice cap on top of one of the higher peaks of the Nuussuaq Peninsula. The entire core, about 140 meters in length, took about a week to retrieve. They then brought the meter-long pieces of core to the National Science Foundation Ice Core Facility in Denver, Colorado, and stored them at -20 degrees Celsius. The core pieces were then analyzed by their layers for melt features and trace chemistry at the Desert Research Institute in Reno, Nevada. By looking at different properties of the core's chemical content, such as parts per billion of lead and sulfur, investigators were able to accurately date the core by combining these measurements with a model of past glacier flow.

"These model estimates of ice cap flow, coupled with the actual ages that we have from this high precision chemistry, help us outline changes in ice cap growth over time. This method provides a new way of understanding past ice cap changes and how that is correlated with climate," said Das. "Because we're collecting a climate record from the coast, we're able to document for the first time that there were these large shifts in temperature, snowfall and melt over the last 2,000 years, showing much more variability than is observed in records from the interior of Greenland," Das added.

"Our findings should urge researchers to return to these remaining ice caps and collect new climate records while they still exist," added Osman.

Explore further Rain on Greenland ice sheet signals climate change risk

More information: Matthew B. Osman et al, Abrupt Common Era hydroclimate shifts drive west Greenland ice cap change, Nature Geoscience (2021). Journal information: Nature Geoscience Matthew B. Osman et al, Abrupt Common Era hydroclimate shifts drive west Greenland ice cap change,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41561-021-00818-w
Credit: Curiosity, Wits University

Even though sex is a basic human need (even a human right in the Netherlands), it can be one of the overlooked needs for people living with disabilities.

Talking openly about sex, sexuality, sexual desire and sexual identity, as well as navigating sexual relations and reproductive rights and contraception, is awkward enough for many people. Add to this the burden of South Africa's hangover of a Calvinistic apartheid past where the Immorality Act policed sexual relations. On top of this is the harsh reality of being a person living with a disability in an ableist world. There are even more complexities, and experiences of exclusion, when the person with a disability is queer identified, and/or gender non-conforming, or transgender.

"It amounts to a feeling like having a double discriminationthere's already stigma attached to disability and then if someone identifies as gay too, it's an added stigma and people also ignore that you have sexual needs or that you also fall in love," says audiologist Dr. Victor de Andrade in the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology.

Let's talk about it

Sometimes just starting a conversation can move mountains and shatter tabooseven about sex. De Andrade says that in 2015, at a seminar he arranged titled "Double Discrimination," a conversation ensued about addressing the needs of the disabled community and thinking through solutions.

In 2017, De Andrade and colleague Dr. Joanne Neille, also from the Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Dr. Haley McEwen and (the late) Dr. Paul Chappell from the Wits Center for Diversity Studies, and others, began to gather data, through a series of conversations and engagements, to better understand what people living with disabilities need to enjoy the right to live their lives as sexual beings.

The project team also included members of the Wits Disability Rights Unit, the GALA Queer Archives, and individual activists to create a team with adequate expertise to address this very important, yet complex, issue.

The researchers cast the net widedeliberately, to be as inclusive and unfiltered as possible in their approach. Neille says: "Historically, research into disability has relied on proxy accounts or has excluded persons with cognitive or communicative disabilities, resulting in a biased understanding of lived experience. For this reason, we included a wide variety of participants with different sexual identities, disabilities, cultural and linguistic backgrounds."

As a result, resources for information about sex have been largely confined to speaking to friends, picking up something from the odd magazine articles that they came across, the variability of internet content, and pornography, she says.

Getting past the gatekeepers

De Andrade says they found that in residential care homes for people with disabilities, sexual relations and intimacy became formalized arrangementslike having to schedule access to designated intimacy rooms and relying on third parties to arrange contraceptives, where such possibilities did exist.

Along with a dearth of information and resources, was also a censure or judgment. "We found that there are many gatekeepers to people living with disabilities' sex lives, and their abilities to access information about sex, sexual health, and relationships, such as parents, teachers, and other caregivers," McEwen says.

"Participants suggested that they could get information about how not to get pregnant or how not to get HIV, but there was nothing about negotiating relationships or consent, and sometimes there was punishment involved or a punitive attitude when the person was trying to find out more."

The research project takes the bold step to place and keep the agenda on the table. What has made the difference in particular is the team's action research approach. It involves deep engagement, reflexivity and letting participants shape the concept and design and outcomes of the research. This has enabled the data gathered since 2017 to be stronger, more nuanced and complex. In turn, the insights seem richer and more valuable.

The trio will publish their findings and research in the coming months, accompanied by a corresponding online guide for caregivers to ensure that more people have access to the kinds of information that participants in the study required.

"We're not saying this guide will solve all the problems, but often people just feel directionless and this is a step in the right direction," De Andrade says.

Using the research findings to change lives, and the approach to reshaping teaching, is transformative. As McEwen says: "This research project was not about developing fancy theory or building our academic careersthere is a social justice imperative because these are huge forms of exclusion that affect all people."

Safe spaces

Gender-based violence and sexual harassment affects everyone, but when you're a person living with a disability, getting help and being heard can be such an overwhelming challenge that staying silent seems to be the better option.

The Wits Center for Deaf Studies has been working to fight stigma and invisibility of people living with disabilities, particularly when it comes to accessing help at a police station. One of the Center's initiatives has been to team up with state-run rape crisis centers in a campaign to push for the National Prosecuting Authority to address the lack of accessible services for people with disabilities.

"The system does not acknowledge the needs of the victim and is inaccessible to Deaf victims or anyone who does not fall into the mainstream," says Professor Claudine Storbeck, Director of the Center.

Through the Center's Safe Spaces program, Storbeck says that they are also working to develop vocabulary to help Deaf children and teenagers to have the correct signs to ask and express about their bodies, about sex and sexuality. It is the foundation for understanding concepts about "sex as power, rights, privilege."

Importantly, Storbeck says that the able-list view of parachuting in to sort out something for the person living with a disability needs upending.

"The aim should be to create platforms so that these issues don't stay low priorities. But once these platforms are in place, people with disabilities are very effective in self-representing. They know exactly what they need," she says.
The NASA Haughton-Mars Project returns to Apollo era training and spacesuit testing sites in Oregon. Left: Apollo astronaut Walter Cunningham in a spacesuit for analog studies at the Big Obsidian Lava Flow, Oregon in September 1964. Right: Spacesuit engineer Ashley Himmelmann in a Collins Aerospace spacesuit for analog studies with integrated Information Technologies and Informatics Subsystem (IT IS) at the same location in August 2021. Credit: NASA Haughton-Mars Project / P. Lee

The NASA Haughton-Mars Project (HMP) and collaborating organizations SETI Institute, Mars Institute, Collins Aerospace, and Ntention are announcing the successful field testing of new spacesuit technologies for future astronaut science and exploration operations on the Moon and Mars.

The field tests were conducted in Oregon's High Desert region, at the same sites once used by Apollo astronauts to train and test spacesuits in preparation for their historic journeys to the Moon. Several new sites also considered relevant for future Moon and Mars exploration in hindsight of the lessons from Apollo and from recent robotic missions to the Moon and Mars, were also visited.

"It was exciting to be in Oregon to revisit some of the very locations where, in 1964 and 1966, the Apollo astronauts received field training in geology and tested spacesuits," said Dr. Pascal Lee, a planetary scientist with the SETI Institute and the Mars Institute, and director of the NASA Haughton-Mars Project at NASA Ames Research Center. "We have also identified new candidate sites for Moon and Mars exploration preparation, now that we know more, compared to the mid-60s, about the Moon and Mars."

The sites visited by the NASA Haughton-Mars Project team included the main Apollo legacy training and spacesuit test sites in Oregon: Lava Butte, Big Obsidian Lava Flow, Fort Rock, Hole in the Ground, and Yapoah Lava Flow at McKenzie Pass. New sites visited in preparation for exploring the Moon's south polar highlands and lunar caves, and eventually Mars, included Pumice Slope at Crater Lake National Park, the Painted Hills at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, and Skylight Cave, a lava tube with multiple roof collapse openings. The sites were accessed with support from the United States Forestry Service Deschutes National Forest and the National Park Service.

NASA Haughton-Mars Project field test of new technologies for human Moon and Mars science and exploration in Oregon. Shown here is spacesuit engineer Ashley Himmelmann in the Collins Aerospace spacesuit for analog studies examining and documenting a rock sample via the spacesuits integrated Information Technologies and Informatics Subsystem (IT IS). Test site: Lava Butte, Oregon. Credit: NASA Haughton-Mars Project / Pascal Lee

NASA's current Artemis Program aims to land the first woman and next man on the Moon, near the lunar South Pole, by the end of this decade and build on this experience to eventually send humans to Mars. In anticipation of the science and exploration needs of future Moon and Mars astronauts, several new technologies are undergoing development and testing to help optimize the safety, productivity, and cost-effectiveness of future EVAs (Extra-Vehicular Activities) or spacewalks.

Central to the week's field tests was Collins Aerospace's innovative, integrated Information Technologies and Informatics Subsystem (IT IS). Currently, astronauts on spacewalks rely on spiral-bound notebooks attached to their elbows to flip through checklists. The Collins IT IS allows astronauts to autonomously track these checklists and act upon the status of their health and that of their EVA companions (vital signs, exertion levels) through a display system in their helmets. They can also monitor the performance of a wide range of EVA systemspower, oxygen, water reservesthe astronauts' location, EVA elapsed time, EVA time remaining, and range from supplies. The IT IS also displays maps and a wide array of other data supporting astronaut science and exploration activities, such as imaging, note-taking, and sample management.

"We see the integration of our Information Technologies and Informatics Subsystem into a spacesuit as a game-changer for conducting EVAs," says Greg Quinn, lead for advanced spacesuit development at Collins Aerospace. "The Collins IT IS will help enhance the autonomy, productivity, and safety of future explorers."

"While real-time mission support from Earth will remain important, exploring the lunar poles, where NASA intends to land Artemis astronauts, means that direct-to-earth communications will not, at times, be possible, even via orbital relays. So we need to provide future lunar explorers with the means to safely perform more autonomous EVAs," explains Lee. "The need for autonomy will be further compounded in the case of Mars, where communications delays will drastically limit real-time mission support from Earth."

Left: The lunar south polar regions where Artemis astronauts will land present terrain more challenging in roughness, slopes, and illumination, than the areas explored by the Apollo astronauts. Right: The Painted Hills at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument offer barren terrain with slopes, terrain textures, and surface material strengths relevant to those anticipated at the lunar South Pole, albeit with different composition and at smaller scales. Credit: Left: NASA Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter-based visualization. Right: NASA Haughton-Mars Project-2021-Oregon / Pascal Lee

Field tests in Oregon began at dawn hours each morning to take advantage of grazing solar illumination in anticipation of challenging lighting conditions at the lunar South Pole. The field sites accessed offered a wide range of terrain roughness, slopes, topographic complexity, and scales of operation anticipated during future EVAs in the lunar South Pole region. EVA systems requirements for future lunar pit and cave exploration were also investigated, a first for a spacesuit manufacturer.

One of the field campaign's key achievements was successfully integrating the Norwegian company Ntention's innovative Astronaut Smart Glove (ASG) system with Collins Aerospace's IT IS. The ASG is an advanced human-machine interface (HMI) integrated into the spacesuit helmet and glove. It allows an astronaut to remotely operate a wide range of possible robotic assets such as robotic arms, cranes, rovers, and even drones, with minimal hand gestures compatible with wearing a constricting and rigid pressurized spacesuit. The ASG field test demonstrated the successful collection of rock sample materials from remote locations not directly accessible to the astronaut.

"Our field test this year demonstrated how an HMI like our Astronaut Smart Glove system can be seamlessly integrated into a spacesuit and offer future astronauts on the Moon and Mars much greater perception, reach, and control of their surroundings," said Moina Tamuly, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Ntention.

"By coming to Oregon, we wanted to recapture Apollo's historic legacy, but also scout out new experiences for future astronaut training and spacesuit testing as we take on this century's new challenges, the lunar poles and Mars," said Lee. "I'm excited to report that we did catch a glimpse of this exciting future this week."

Explore further An astronaut smart glove to explore the moon, Mars and beyond

More information: For more information on the HMP, visit https://www.marsinstitute.no/hmp For more information on the HMP, visit https://www.nasa.gov/analogs/hmp
The silicon sphere [Cl@Si 20 H 20 ], synthesizsed for the first time by chemists from Goethe University Frankfurt, promises new applications in semiconductor technology. Blue: silicon, green: chloride ion, gray: hydrogen. Credit: Goethe University Frankfurt

The latest generations of computer chips are only a few nanometres in size and are becoming ever more energy-saving and powerful as a result of progressive miniaturization. Since the etching processes traditionally used in chip production are increasingly reaching their limits, the development of new, nanostructured semiconductor materials is essential. Such nano semiconductors also play a central role in converting electricity into light and vice versa.

A team at Goethe University Frankfurt led by Matthias Wagner has now succeeded in synthesizing molecular nano "spheres" made of 20 silicon atoms, so-called silafulleranes. The second new class of materials are crystal building blocks made of 10 silicon and germanium atoms that have a diamond-like structure. Decisive insights into the electronic structures of the new compounds were provided by computer-based theoretical analyses from Stefan Grimme's research group in Bonn.

The 20 silicon atoms of silafullerane form a dodecahedron, a body composed of regular pentagons. It encapsulates a chloride ion. A hydrogen atom protrudes outward at each silicon corner of the body. Doctoral student Marcel Bamberg, who synthesized the molecule, explains: "Our silafullerane is the long-sought progenitor of this new class of substances. The hydrogen atoms can easily be replaced with functional groups, thus giving the silafullerane different properties." Bonn quantum chemist Markus Bursch adds: "We support the targeted generation of potentially useful properties with theoretical predictions of their resulting effects."

Building block for silicon-germanium alloys: A section of the silicon-germanium adamantane synthesised in Frankfurt (shown here without substituents). Blue: silicon, magenta: germanium. Credit: Goethe University Frankfurt

The silicon-germanium adamantane represents the building block of a mixed silicon-germanium alloy. Benedikt Kostler, who is developing the compounds as part of his doctoral thesis, says that "recent studies have shown that silicon-germanium alloys are superior to pure silicon semiconductors in important application areas. However, the production of such alloys is very difficult and you often get mixtures of different compositions. We have succeeded in developing a simple synthesis path for the basic building block of silicon-germanium alloys. Our silicon-germanium adamantane therefore enables the investigation of important chemical and physical properties of silicon-germanium alloys on the molecular model. We also want to use it in the future to produce silicon-germanium alloys with faultless crystal structures."

Carbon, which is chemically very similar to the elements silicon and germanium, occurs in comparable forms to the two new classes of substances: Hollow spheres of carbon atoms ("fullerenes") correspond to silafulleranes, and diamonds consisting of carbon are composed of adamantane subunits. Among other things, fullerenes increase the efficiency of organic solar cells, could make the batteries of electric cars safer, and promise progress in high-temperature superconductivity. Nanodiamonds also have a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to catalysis research.

Against this background, the researchers in Frankfurt and Bonn are excited to see in which fields their silafulleranes and silicon-germanium adamantanes will become established. Matthias Wagner says: "It is already possible to generate light in all colors of the visible spectrum with nanostructured silicon and germanium in the form of quantum dots, and this is being tested for computer and mobile phone displays, as well as in telecommunications. Apart from the chemical-technical potential, I am personally fascinated by the high symmetry of our compounds: For example, our silafullerane is one of the five Platonic solids and possesses a timeless beauty."

Explore further Adjusting the composition and properties of semiconducting 2-D alloys
An Eastern oyster from the Gulf Coast. Credit:  Deanne Roopnarine

On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon (DWH) petroleum drilling rig exploded off the coast of Louisiana, resulting in the world's worst oil spill in history with more than 4 million barrels of oil released into the Gulf of Mexico. Though the short-term impact of the oil spill on local wildlife was widely researched among scientists and discussed in the media, there has been relatively little research on the long-term effects of the disaster. In a paper published this week in PLOS ONE, researchers from the California Academy of Sciences, Nova Southeastern University (NSU), South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSMT), and Kent State University show that Eastern oysters from the Gulf Coast have significantly higher rates of metaplasiaa condition that can cause debilitating tissue abnormalitiesthan those from a region unaffected by the DWH oil spill, even several years after the event, raising concerns about the health of the economically and ecologically important species.

"It's worrying to find such a high incidence of metaplasia," says study author and Academy Curator of Invertebrate Zoology and Geology Peter Roopnarine, Ph.D. "Eastern oysters are not only a major link in the ecosystem's food chain, they are also ecosystem engineers, forming oyster reefs that shelter other organisms and protect coastal areas from storm surges."

Metaplasia is a reversible condition where some of an organism's differentiated cells change type due to stress from the environment. Since differentiated cells have specialized roles, like how the cells in our gut facilitate nutrient uptake, changing into a different type can inhibit the organism's overall health.

"In humans, metaplasia is commonly found in lung cells exposed to the extreme stress of cigarette smoke," says lead author and NSU professor Deanne Roopnarine, DPM. "When my brother Peter mentioned he was researching the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on oysters, I wondered whether they might show signs of metaplasia or other histological impacts and ultimately joined the project."

After being collected by study author and SDSMT geologist Laurie Anderson, Ph.D., the oysters were sent to Professor Deanne Roopnarine and her undergraduate lab students, who spent months shucking them, sectioning out their internal tissues, fixing the tissues to slides, and staining the slides to compare the cellular structures between Eastern oysters from the Gulf Coast and those from Chesapeake Bay that were unaffected by the DWH oil spill.

The researchers found that oysters from the Gulf of Mexico study sites had significantly higher rates of metaplasia along their digestive and respiratory tracts than those from Chesapeake Bay, including oysters sampled as late as 2013, three years after the DWH oil spill.

"The differences we found between the oysters was devastating," Professor Deanne Roopnarine says. "Those from Chesapeake Bay had beautiful ciliated gills, which they use to help filter food particles, while some from the Gulf Coast had no cilia at all. When I saw that I thought, how are these animals feeding and surviving?"

One theory for how the oysters might be surviving is that they have adapted to live with metaplasia and other impacts from the petroleum extraction industry, which has been operating in the region for nearly a century.

Without tissue samples from Eastern oysters prior to the DWH oil spill, however, the researchers say there is insufficient baseline data to determine whether or not the rates of metaplasia in Gulf Coast populations were directly affected by the event.

The research team hopes that their results inspire deeper, longer-term monitoring efforts for Eastern oysters and other important but often overlooked species along the Gulf Coast that could be negatively impacted by continued oil spills in the region, like those being reported in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida.

"As long as we continue extracting petroleum from our planet's oceans, we will continue to expose coastal ecosystems to contamination," curator Peter Roopnarine says. "Hopefully this study and its sampleswhich are now stored in the Academy's scientific collections for future researchers to usewill lead to a better understanding of how oil spills are directly impacting those communities."

Explore further After Deepwater Horizon spill, oyster size did not change

More information: Deanne S. Roopnarine et al, Metaplasia of respiratory and digestive tissues in the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica associated with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, PLOS ONE (2021). Journal information: PLoS ONE Deanne S. Roopnarine et al, Metaplasia of respiratory and digestive tissues in the eastern oyster Crassostrea virginica associated with the Deepwater Horizon oil spill,(2021). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247739
Figure 1. Finland in 19361948, in the light of social indicators (1938 = 100): by criminality known to police, consumption of spirits per capita, and divorce. Source: Statistical Yearbook of Finland 19361948. Credit: DOI: 10.1080/03071022.2021.1892314

The time of war left its mark on Finnish families. Many fathers and young men returning from the front were traumatized, had nightmares, drunk heavily and were violent against their family members. Often, their ability to work and provide was not the same as before. Many mothers who took sole care of the home and farm work, on the other hand, were exhausted.

There was no room or opportunity to talk about the mental burden of war, and those with a shattered mental health were seen to be weak. Mental instability and mental illness were also considered shameful, which is why they were kept quiet outside the home.

"After the war, Finland was strongly focused reconstruction, and all eyes were set on the future. Life was materially scarce, and many families only had enough energy to survive everyday life. Mental well-being wasn't really considered an issue of its own, and there was little social support for mental health at the time," cultural researcher Adjunct Professor Kirsi Lauren says.

Together with historian, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Ph.D. Antti Malinen, she has authored an article on children's post-war experiences in Finnish families. The article examines the role of a culture of shame and silence in relation to difficult memories of insecurity and domestic violence. As material, the study used narratives gathered during the "Did the war continue in the home?" campaign, which was organized by the University of Jyvaskyla and the Archive of the Finnish Literature Society.

Staying silent no more

"Clearly, the time is now ripe for addressing difficult memories. The narratives gathered for the study showed that there still is a need to deal with traumatic experiences and memories. The underlying hope is to find closure and to stop the culture of silence from being passed on to generations to come."

For many, the certain anonymity of writing may have made it easier to address difficult and even shameful issues, rather than to talk about them face to face.

"Here in Finland, public remembrance and history writing relating to the war and its consequences was, for a very long time, focused on the politics of war, and on the events of, and heroic stories from, the front. Over the past decades, however, research and public debate, as well as the narratives in our research material, have given a voice to children and women, i.e., today's adult women and men."

Lauren says that there has been an affective turn in studies addressing the war, i.e., researchers are now increasingly interested in experiences and emotions instead of, or alongside with, the history of military offenses and action.

This is also reflected on popular culture: movies, theater and literature are increasingly focused on what happened and what was experienced on the home front.

The microhistorical viewpoint of everyday life shapes, for its part, our society in a more tolerant direction, and it is safer to talk about emotions than before.

"A similar phenomenon in dealing with wartime experiences and trauma can also be seen in international research and cultural ways of publicly dealing with difficult memories."

A phenomenon that didn't exist before

For people today, it is difficult to comprehend why no mental support or therapy was offered to the men returning from war.

"The need for support wasn't understood at the time, and there wasn't enough information on how to deal with post-traumatic experiences."

According to Lauren, the narratives deal with a phenomenon that didn't officially exist at the time.

"According to the authors, it is a relief to finally be able to talk about these experiences, and to end the secrecy and silence around the topics. It is also helpful to discuss these issues in public, allowing people to see that others have been through similar things. This makes it possible for the process of healing to start."

Belittling and dismissal

Although some of the narratives were positive and about good and loving families, most of them were touching stories about how little dignity was given to children at the time. Physical and mental punishment of children was commonplace in many families.

"I especially remember a narrative written under the pseudonym "Pertti," who describes how he spent most of his childhood trying to please his parents. As an only child, he had always been obedient and kind, and hoped to get attention especially from his unpredictable father. However, the father followed a common upbringing method of that time, often resorting to corporal punishment. Pertti's father didn't think Pertti was manly enough, so he was never complimented or encouraged."

Once, however, Pertti remembers having received praise from his father for heating up the sauna.

"And he still remembers how good that one time felt."

The narratives also show how impulsive both fathers and mothers could be, and how sudden and unconditional decisions on children's upbringing were. According to Lauren, this speaks about constant fatigue and anxiety.

Older siblings would protect younger ones, especially from their violent and drunk fathers.

"Besides physical punishment, I was particularly moved by the constant dismissal and belittling of children. One narrative described how the family's father repeatedly pointed to his son that 'he cannot understand anything because he has not been in the war.'"

Later on, experiences of shame may have caused depression and difficulties in establishing permanent relationships.

Some people have managed to talk about their trauma in therapy, but aftercare was often delayed.

"For some, it has taken a long time to understand that these things get passed on from one generation to the next, and that the trauma of war also affects the lives of many generations to come."

Important research

Lauren says that when society faces a major crisis, it is important that the crisis and its many effects are publicly and transparently acknowledged.

"It is of course clear that acknowledging and addressing shameful and difficult issues, such as war crimes or human rights violations, will take a certain amount of time before they can be spoken about out loud."

War is one of the greatest crises faced by mankind, and Finns don't seem to get tired of reading about theirs. With the narratives of different minorities and women and children now coming to light, there is a new perspective to the events and consequences of war.

"Small narratives and personal experiences are interesting. They are also important for research, as they carry with them the cultural and social climate and values that have prevailed in different times."

In other words, the perspectives related to microhistory reflect more broadly the attitudes and values of the period in question.

"I also think it is a sign of a healthy society that even difficult things from the past are discussed honestly, even if they are not always so honorable."

Explore further Children living with someone who has mental health issues are two-thirds more likely to experience similar difficulties

More information: Kirsi Lauren et al, Shame and silences: children's emotional experiences of insecurity and violence in postwar Finnish families, Social History (2021). Kirsi Lauren et al, Shame and silences: children's emotional experiences of insecurity and violence in postwar Finnish families,(2021). DOI: 10.1080/03071022.2021.1892314
Figure 1. (a) Seasonality mask produced using CHIRPS rainfall data over 19852014. (b) CMIP6 multimodel modal seasonality mask for the historical simulation over 19852014. Red indicates dry year-round, blue indicates wet year-round, yellow indicates one wet season per year, and pale blue indicates two wet seasons per year. Credit: DOI: 10.1175/JHM-D-21-0017.1

Longer, hotter and drier spells in countries around the world due to climate change could hit important global crops within the next 50 years.

A new study led by the University of Reading has shown that climate change is leading to longer dry spells in the dry season which can affect crops grown during dry seasons in tropical countries, as the number of days with no rain increases by 20702099.

The researchers found that northeast South America and southwest Africa will experience dry spells that last 510 days longer on average, with the Mediterranean, Australia, Central America, and South America and broader southern Africa also seeing longer periods with no rain.

South America, southern Africa and parts of Asia are expected to see peak dry season temperatures rise by as much as 7Cup to 3C more than the warming experienced in the wet seasonwith parts of these regions experiencing season average maximum temperatures of 35C and above.

The start of wet seasons in the tropics is also likely to be delayed by up to two weeks by the end of the century in South America, southern Africa, West Africa and the Sahel, which could affect the planting of crops.

Dr. Caroline Wainwright, an NCAS climate scientist at the University of Reading, said: "The trend we see towards more intense dry seasons in the tropics has worrying implications for agriculture in these regions.

"Many countries within our study, such as South Africa, already suffer from drought, so the prospect of hotter and drier spells at the of year time when water is scarcer is seriously problematic.

"Agriculture is vital in these regions for feeding communities, as well as providing vital income through exporting foods around the world. These findings are further evidence that climate change will affect the way we live and impact lives."

The new study, published in the Journal of Hydrometeorology, used the latest, state-of-the-art computer simulations and improved statistical techniques to estimate future changes to rainfall patterns in the tropics during both the dry and wet seasons, separately. This is because the impact of dry periods on crops differs depending on the time of year they occur.

Temperature increases, number of dry days, and length of dry spells were all predicted to increase during dry seasons.

Smaller changes were seen in the length of dry spells during the wet season. However, the increased likelihood of soil becoming too dry to support crops during the dry season could negatively impact perennial crops, which grow all year round.

The changing climate could therefore affect the production of popular food, including cocoa and coffee.

Explore further Wet season changes under future climate change could harm 'vulnerable' Africa

More information: Caroline M. Wainwright et al, Future Changes in Wet and Dry Season Characteristics in CMIP5 and CMIP6 simulations, Journal of Hydrometeorology (2021). Caroline M. Wainwright et al, Future Changes in Wet and Dry Season Characteristics in CMIP5 and CMIP6 simulations,(2021). DOI: 10.1175/JHM-D-21-0017.1
This January 25, 2017, image courtesy of Dr. Ed Marti, shows a strontium optical lattice clock, stored at Jun Ye's lab in the University of Colorado, Boulder.

It would take 15 billion years for the clock that occupies Jun Ye's basement lab at the University of Colorado to lose a secondabout how long the universe has existed.

For this invention, the Chinese-American scientist, along with Hidetoshi Katori of Japan, will split $3 million as co-winners of the 2022 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.

Working independently, the two developed techniques using lasers to trap and cool atoms, then harness their vibrations to drive what are known as "optical lattice clocks," the most precise timekeeping pieces ever built.

By comparison, current atomic clocks lose a second once every 100 million years.

But what is gained by greater accuracy?

"It's really an instrument to allow you to probe the basic fabric of space-time in the universe," Ye told AFP.

In Ye's lab, researchers have shown that time moves slower when the clock is moved closer to the ground by a matter of centimeters, in line with Einstein's predictions of relativity.

Applied to current technology, these clocks could improve GPS navigation accuracy by a factor of a thousand, or help smoothly land an unmanned spaceplane on Mars.

This undated handout photo obtained September 8, 2021 shows Chinese-American scientist Jun Ye, the inventor of a super-accurate clock.

A brief history of time

Improving the precision and accuracy of timekeeping has been a goal since ancient Egyptians and Chinese made sundials.

A key breakthrough came with the invention of the pendulum clock in 1656, which relies on a swinging weight to keep time, and a few decades later chronometers were accurate enough to determine a ship's longitude at sea.

The early 20th century saw the advent of quartz clocks, which when jolted with electricity resonate at very specific, high frequencies, or number of ticks in a second.

Quartz clocks are ubiquitous in modern electronics, but are still somewhat susceptible to variations caused by the manufacturing process, or conditions like temperature.

The next great leap in timekeeping came from harnessing the movements of energized atoms to develop atomic clocks, which are immune the effects of such environmental variations.

Physicists know that a single, very high frequency will cause particles called electrons that orbit the nucleus of a specific type of atom to jump to a higher energy state, finding an orbit further away from the nucleus.

This January 25, 2017, image courtesy of Dr. Ed Marti, shows a strontium optical lattice clock, stored at Jun Ye's lab in the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Atomic clocks generate the approximate frequency that causes atoms of the element Cesium to jump to that higher energy state.

Then, a detector counts the number of those energized atoms, adjusting the frequency if necessary to make the clock more precise.

So precise that since 1967, one second has been defined as 9,192,631,770 oscillations of a Cesium atom.

Exploring the universe, and Earth

Katori's and Ye's labs have found ways to improve atomic clocks even further by moving oscillations to the visible end of the electromagnetic spectrum, with frequencies a hundred thousand times higher than those used in current atomic clocksto make them even more accurate.

They realized they needed a way to trap the atomsin this case, of the element strontiumand hold them still with ultralow temperatures to help measure time properly.

If the atoms are falling due to gravity or are otherwise moving, there would be a loss of accuracy, and relativity would cause distorting effects on the timekeeping.

To trap the atoms, the inventors created an "optical lattice" made by laser waves moving in opposite directions to form a stationary, egg carton-like shape.

Ye is excited about the potential use of his clock. For example, synchronizing the clocks of the world's best observatories down to the tiniest fractions of a second would allow astronomers to better conceptualize black holes.

Better clocks can also shed new light on the Earth's geological processes.

Relativity tells us that time slows down when it approaches a massive body, so a sufficiently accurate clock could tell scientists the difference between solid rock and volcanic lava below the surface, helping to predict an eruption.

Or indeed, measure the levels of the oceans, or how much water flows beneath a desert.

The next great challenge, Ye says, will be miniaturizing the technology so it can be moved out of a lab.

The scientist admits it's sometimes hard to explain fundamental physics concepts to the public.

"But when they hear about clocks, they can feel it's a tangible thing, they can make a connection to that, and that's very rewarding," he said.

 2021 AFP
VALDOSTA, Ga. (AP)  Tropical depression Mindy dumped rain along the Georgia and South Carolina seacoasts Thursday during a trek across land before moving well out over the Atlantic Ocean.

Mindy was a brief-lived tropical storm that had formed Wednesday in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico. The storm made landfall Wednesday night in St. Vincent Island, Florida and then was downgraded to a depression that dumped rain across the Florida Panhandle and into south Georgia and South Carolina.

The storm was in the Atlantic on Thursday evening about 110 miles (175 kilometers) east-southeast of Charleston, South Carolina, and moving east-northeast at 23 mph (37 kph) with top sustained winds of 35 mph (55 kph), forecasters said.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami said gradual weakening was expected and Mindy is forecast to become a remnant low sometime Friday.

Florida's Big Bend area was already saturated from rain dumped by Hurricanes Elsa and Ida. Some residents in low-lying Dixie County have had to move out of their homes, which were flooded before Mindy brought more rain.

Diane Van Hook has been living at a hotel for weeks because her property is flooded and theres no electricity in her home.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Born out of the 1980s war against the Soviet Union's occupation of Afghanistan, the terror group al-Qaida under Osama bin Laden grew into a generational threat to America that culminated in its Sept. 11, 2001, attack that brought down the World Trade Center in New York.

The 9/11 attacks, which also saw the Pentagon struck by the commercial airliners hijacked by the group's militants, led to the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan and the start of America's longest war that just ended with the military's frantic airlift from Kabul.

It also represented a new kind of danger, a war not against a nation per se but a shadowy network of financiers, acolytes and suicide bombers that continues even after bin Laden's killing at the hands of U.S. Navy SEALs in 2011 in Pakistan. Others have followed their model to even-more horrific results.

ORIGINS

Al-Qaida, or the Base in Arabic, organized as the Soviets pulled out of Afghanistan. Hoping to capitalize on the support the mujahedeen, or the holy warriors, received during their war against Moscow, bin Laden formed al-Qaida and became its leader. The son of a construction magnate in Saudi Arabia, bin Laden also enjoyed familial wealth as well.
It is an honor and privilege to carry on the legacy of the selfless heroes and unwilling victims of the 9/11 attacks, said commanding officer of USS New York, Capt. Javier Gonzalez. Our ship embodies the fighting passion that united Americans, despite an inconceivable tragedy, to defend our countrys values and continue the pursuit of freedom worldwide.

Homeported in Norfolk, Virginia, the USS New York is longer than two football fields at 684 feet. The ship is 105 feet wide and weighs more than 24,000 tons. It has four diesel engines that can push the ship through the water in excess of 26 mph.

As a member of the U.S. Navy, Matt and other New York sailors are proud to be part of a warfighting team that embodies the spirit, strength and resilience of the American people.

I had a number of friends in college who throughout the years were personally impacted by the 9/11 attacks in both New York and Washington, D.C., added Matt. Serving aboard this ship allows me to bring a piece of them with me everyday when I come to work. The fact that steel from the WTC is embedded in the keel of this ship is a physical tangible reminder that when put to sea, the U.S. has the ability to recover from any attack and will bring that fight to the enemy.
St. Vincent de Paul Society Conference at Holy Trinity Parish in Margate this year combining with the St. Josephs conference of Somers Point is staging its seventh annual Friends of the Poor walk/ run that will take place on the Ventnor Boardwalk on Sept. 25. Our mission is to assist the poor and needy living in the communities of Atlantic City, Ventnor, Margate and Longport.

Registration for the 4.2-mile walk/run will take place on the gazebo, at Newport and the Boardwalk in Ventnor, beginning 9 a.m. A donation of $15 is requested for participation, which includes a T shirt and refreshments at St. James Hall following the event.

Hurricane Sandy and multiple casino closings have had devastating effects, resulting in an ever increasing demand on our resources.

During the past years we have assisted the poor and needy in our community through the following initiatives:

Provide $18,940 to assist 286 family members with rent, utilities, medical and other emergency needs

Provided an additional $8550 in food purchases.

Collected food and clothing for distribution to needy residents in Atlantic City. During the past year over 2400 shopping bags of food and tons of clothing have been distributed to local residents.
Running bamboo rhizomes actually have a moisture emitting sharp tip that softens and penetrates as they go underground. They dont know about property lines and have no problem finding the tiniest cracks, crevices, pathways, soil types or non-soil explorations. Bamboo exhibits some tree-like qualities, but it is actually a giant grass and also one of the worlds most invasive plants. So, if you want perpetual maintenance of unknown dimensions or chances of success, potential legal and social problems with neighbors in all directions (liens, lawsuits, etc.), then bamboo is perfect for you. Oh, and dont forget to sink sheet metal, rubber membrane or other non-degradable material 30 inches down into the ground and 6 feet above to try, with no guarantees, to contain bamboo rhizomes from leaving your property.

Municipalities and state governments should have the public good in mind to ban new plantings of bamboo moving forward upon ordinance passage. Existing plantings must be contained if possible, but property owners still bear the cost of removal or possible legal ramifications from nearby property owners. The State of Delaware has already put restrictions in place on bamboo and quite a few other nuisance plants; other states should as well.
State-and-regional

top story

Consider flood insurance, even if not in flood zone, Murphy says as more storms approach

Evan Vucci President Joe Biden hugs a person as he tours a neighborhood impacted by Hurricane Ida, Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, in Manville, N.J. Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J., second from left, and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, second from right, look on. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

A week after heavy storms brought flash floods and tornadoes to much of the state, killing 27 people, Gov. Phil Murphy told residents Wednesday afternoon to prepare for another round of storms and to consider buying flood insurance.

I cannot believe we are talking about this, but here goes. We are at risk of severe storms this evening ... that will bring wind gusts and downpours into areas that need neither, Murphy said during a press briefing Wednesday.

He also said the state needs more options to deal with storms and flooding, and said buyouts of houses in particularly flood-prone areas may have to accelerate.

On Tuesday, Murphy toured areas of the state damaged by the remnants of Hurricane Ida with President Joe Biden. The storm hit New Jersey last Wednesday evening into Thursday morning.

There was a bright spot in last weeks storm experience, Murphy said. Investments of billions of dollars to protect electrical substations paid off in the remnants of Ida.

Biden surveys NY and NJ storm damage after deadly flooding President Joe Biden declared climate change everybodys crisis on Tuesday after touring neighborhoods severely damaged by the remnants of Hurricane Ida and said its time for America to get serious about the danger or face ever worse loss of life and property.

In Hurricane Irene we had 2 million outages, Murphy said, many of which lasted weeks. We had 92,000 (in Ida).

The governor said warnings of new storms are reminiscent of last Wednesday.

We were sitting here a week ago talking about what was going to happen, Murphy said of storms that also left four people missing. We have very saturated grounds in the state right now. Vegetation, trees and foundations  everything is more likely to be easily moved.

No one died in tornadoes last week, he said, because they took warnings seriously and went into their basements.

A tornado ripped through Mullica Hill in Gloucester County last week, bringing winds of up to 150 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

Biden directs federal aid to NY, NJ after deadly flooding LAMBERTVILLE  President Joe Biden approved major disaster declarations Monday, greenlighting federal aid for people in six New Jersey counties and five New York counties affected by devastating flooding last week from the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

But the majority of deaths involved people caught in flood waters either in buildings or cars.

If your phone goes off with a flash flood ... warning, please take it seriously. Dont go out in a storm, Murphy said.

The governor recommended even people who dont live in areas considered flood zones consider buying flood insurance, since flooding happened last week in areas that had never flooded before.

Ida largely spared the Jersey Shore, instead hitting hardest in the western and northern parts of the state.

Ida proved devastating floods can happen anywhere and anytime, Murphy said.

Homeowners across the state told him they didnt carry flood insurance either because their neighborhood hadnt flooded before, wasnt in a flood zone or they didnt realize homeowners policies dont cover flood damage, Murphy said.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency assists people in meeting basic needs and beginning to rebuild, he said, but does not provide the resources needed to fully rebuild.

Flood insurance is there to bring you back to where you were pre-flood, Murphy said.

Col. Pat Callahan of the State Police said he expects more counties to be added by FEMA to the federal disaster declaration beyond the six already included. The other counties in which data is still being collected are Hudson, Essex, Mercer, Union, Burlington, Monmouth, Morris and Warren.

Counties in which federal disaster declarations have already been made are Bergen, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Middlesex, Passaic and Somerset. The declaration makes federal funding available to cover temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs for residents and business owners.

More than 45 dead after Ida's remnants blindside Northeast NEW YORK (AP)  A stunned U.S. East Coast faced a rising death toll, surging rivers and tornado damage Thursday after the remnants of Hurricane Ida walloped the region with record-breaking rain, drowning more than 40 people in their homes and cars.

Callahan said residents should report cases of price gouging after storms or consumer fraud to njconsumeraffairs.gov.

Officials also gave an update on the states COVID-19 numbers during the news conference. State Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli reported 1,186 people are now hospitalized with COVID-19, with 270 in intensive care and 128 ICU patients on ventilators.

The state reported 14 new COVID-related deaths, bringing the total to 24,258 deaths statewide since the pandemic began.

The delta variant continues to be dominant, with 98% of variants sequenced in the last several weeks being of the delta type.

As of Sept. 4, the positivity rate in New Jersey was 7.93%, with the south having the highest percentage at 9.59%, the north 6.39% and the central part of the state at 9.52%.

Ida live updates: NJ tornado reached EF-3 rating, NWS says MOUNT HOLLY, N.J.  A tornado that ripped through Mullica Hill, New Jersey, on Wednesday evening is believed to have had an EF-3 rating, with winds of up to 150 miles per hour (240 kph), according to the National Weather Service.

The state is still waiting for final recommendations from the federal government on COVID-19 vaccine booster shots, including whether they should be given six or eight months after initial vaccination, the governor said.

Due to increased concerns around storms, COVID-19 and school re-openings, Murphy said he will increase his COVID-19 press briefings to two per week going forward. They will be held at 1 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays.

Related
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The most recent extension came at a cost of $85,585.

Previously, the board operated out of the renovated historic county jail in Mays Landing, a small stone structure where many offices were in former inmate cells. There was one meeting room, but it was nowhere near large enough for the extra staff needed in November 2020, let alone the additional space for proper social distancing.

The Board of Elections commissioners are aware of the situation and are awaiting word from the county administration as to how the issue will be addressed, Caterson said in an email late Thursday.

Atlantic County to spend $2 million on early voting machines NORTHFIELD  The Atlantic County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday approved two resolutions 

The building has two other main tenants. There are state offices on the ground floor, and an IRS office is on the second floor.

While this years election, in which there will be nine days of early voting on machines and Election Day machine voting, is not expected to generate anywhere near as many paper vote-by-mail ballots, there is still a need for expanded space for social distancing as the delta variant of the coronavirus continues to spread.

The elections board is responsible for recruiting and training poll workers, receiving vote-by-mail ballots and counting them as well as counting paper provisional ballots, and more.
Aurora lit up the sky over Sylvan Lake in Alberta, Canada on Wednesday, September 8.

The incident occurred the morning of Nov. 21, 2019, when a Tuckerton officer attempted to pull over a vehicle at the Delta gas station on East Main Street, the Prosecutors Office said in a news release.

The officer approached the car and advised the driver and passenger, Miguel Angel Villegas, that they were being stopped for obstruction of view and a seat belt violation.

The officer could not find a valid drivers license under the name of the driver and asked for her to exit the car.

The driver briefly exited the car before reentering, accelerating from the gas station and colliding with the left side of a northbound vehicle.

+2 Connecticut man pleads guilty to attempted murder of Tuckerton police officer TOMS RIVER  A Connecticut man pleaded guilty Friday to the attempted murder of a Tuckerton 

When the officer approached the unrelated vehicle that was hit, he saw Villegas outside the car with his hands in his waist area. After Villegas refused to show the officer his hands, Villegas removed a handgun from under his clothing and began firing at the officer, the Prosecutors Office said.

The officer fired his weapon in response, but neither Villegas nor the bystander was hit. Villegas then fled south, where he broke into a garage, stole a bike then called a Lyft to North Jersey, the Prosecutors Office said.

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Michelle Infante-Casella, county extension agent with the state Department of Agriculture, and a professor at Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Gloucester County, estimates 82% of the state's agriculture production comes out of South Jersey.

Farming is still big business in New Jersey, ranked seventh in the U.S. for agriculture sales at slightly more than half a billion dollars per year. The most recent Census of Horticulture noted considerable growth compared to the 2014 horticulture census, which ranked New Jersey at $356 million in sales. New Jersey individual and family farms accounted for $106 million of those sales and ranked fourth nationally.

When Ida's winds and tornado hit Mullica Hill on Sept. 1, nearly all of the Wellacrest Farms' barns, silos and buildings were hit, some collapsing on the cows.

"We got most of them out, but we lost at least 10 from the herd," Eachus said. Some had to be put down because the animals were so badly injured.

The night after the storm, the Eachus family's electrician worked from 11 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following morning to restore the generator to power the milking parlor and turn on the water well.
State and federal officials broke ground Thursday on a facility designed to help New Jersey take a leadership position in the burgeoning offshore wind energy industry on the East Coast.

Gov. Phil Murphy and U.S. Labor Secretary Martin Walsh were among those who spoke at the ceremony for the New Jersey Wind Port in Lower Alloways Creek Township in Salem County.

The facility is designed to provide a place to manufacture giant blades and other components for offshore wind energy projects, which are increasingly being proposed  and approved  off the New Jersey coastline.

Its cost is estimated at $300 million to $400 million.

What we are doing is not only going to create good jobs, but it is going to be our greatest stand against climate change, said Murphy.

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Walsh, the former Boston mayor, noted that President Joe Biden in March set a goal of having 30,000 megawatts of offshore wind energy operating by 2030, enough to power about 10 million homes.

Walsh said he hopes similar projects will be approved elsewhere along the nations shorelines.

Other states can follow suit, right here, with what is happening in New Jersey, he said.
A day after the Constitution-flouting Texas anti-abortion law went into effect, a divided Supreme Court ruled on that it wont block the law before it can grapple with a concrete case that tests it in practice. The five most conservative justices agreed to an unsigned, one-and-a-half-page opinion that said the law might or might not be unconstitutional, but that given its unusual form, which delegates enforcement to private citizens instead of state authorities, it was too legally complicated to issue an emergency injunction blocking the law. In four separate dissents, the three liberals plus Chief Justice John Roberts said the law should have been blocked anyway.

Every nonlawyer on the planet  and no doubt a few lawyers, too  is likely to read this outcome as prefiguring a 5-to-4 vote to overturn Roe v. Wade, the 1973 precedent that made abortion a constitutional right. Later this year, the court will address a Mississippi anti-abortion law that lacks the cleverly diabolical enforcement mechanism of the Texas law but is equally unconstitutional. Indeed, the day after the law went into effect and before the Supreme Court ruled, many non-lawyers who were unfamiliar with court procedures had already concluded that they knew how the upcoming Mississippi case would come out.
New Jerseys efforts to help renters get through their financial losses in the pandemic have been an odd, slow-moving fiasco.

The state has received lots of federal money to pay the rent for qualifying tenants, has distributed a small fraction of that over the course of many months, and has extended the crisis freeze on a normally functioning rental market through the end of this year.

Its kind of backward. First, all renters were told they couldnt be evicted if they quit paying rent for whatever reason. Then much funding was announced to pay the rent of those hurt by the pandemic. Only then was some effort made to create a system to figure out who is eligible and get them money. And so far neither state nor federal officials has figured out how many renters actually need help and how much.

No problem. The aid money can be spread around for the next four years.

Federal and state bans on evicting tenants were put in place fairly early in the pandemic when it became apparent that government shutdowns and altered behaviors were resulting in massive job losses, especially for people whose work couldnt be done from home.
'My Brain Was Boiling': RFE/RL Freelancer Describes Agonizing Torture By Russian Jailers

RFE/RL freelance correspondent Vladyslav Yesypenko, who has been in detention in Russian-occupied Crimea since March, made detailed allegations in court on September 6 about being tortured while in custody. He has been charged with the possession and transport of explosives, which he denies. RFE/RL President Jamie Fly called Yesypenko's detention a Kremlin-backed move to target independent media outlets.

INCIDENTS AND THREATS

'Signs Of Torture': Two Afghan Journalists Beaten After Detention By Taliban

Two journalists for Kabul-based newspaper Etilaat-e Roz were detained by Taliban militants while covering a women's rights protest on September 7. They were released hours later covered in bruises and barely able to walk. RFE/RL's Radio Azadi spoke to the newspaper's founder about the beatings and the dangers faced by journalists trying to cover the new Taliban regime.

Russian Journalists Protesting Media Crackdown Detained In Moscow

Russian police have detained three journalists as they protested outside the Justice Ministry against the government's widening crackdown on media outlets. The September 8 detention of the three, from the online news site Vazhniye Istorii (iStories), comes amid mounting fears about the ongoing Kremlin campaign to squeeze independent journalism in Russia ahead of this month's elections. Vazhniye Istorii is among dozens of media outlets and individual journalists (including RFE/RL projects and freelancers) that have been labeled "foreign agents" under a decade-old law. Also, More Than 40 Russian Media Outlets Launch There Are No Foreign Agents, There Are Journalists Campaign .

Four More Media Organizations Added To Russia's 'Foreign Agent' List

Russia has branded four more media outlets as "foreign agents," adding to the growing list of news organizations and individual journalists caught up in what critics say is an accelerated Kremlin campaign against independent media ahead of nationwide legislative elections later this month. The Justice Ministry announced on September 3 that it had added four legal entities to its controversial registry of "foreign media performing the functions of a foreign agent": Altair 2021 LLC, Vega 2021 LLC, Editor-in-Chief 2021 LLC, and Romashki Monolit LLC. Also, Dozens Gather In Moscow To Condemn Government Pressure On Independent Media.

Russian Journalist Badanin Starts New Media Outlet To Expose Officials

Well-known Russian journalist Roman Badanin, who stayed in the United States where he and his family were vacationing when his investigative group Proyekt (The Project) was shut down in Moscow in July, has started a new media outlet aimed at exposing abuses by Russian authorities. Badanin's U.S.-registered The Project, which published a series of well-researched, unflattering, and sometimes embarrassing investigations into Russia's ruling elite, was closed after the Prosecutor-General's Office in Moscow declared it an "undesirable organization" in mid-July.

Russian Authorities Block Final Access Point To Navalny's 'Smart Voting' Website

Russia's media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, has blocked the last remaining portal open to the Smart Voting website developed by jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny's team to support candidates in the upcoming elections to defeat Kremlin-linked figures and candidates for the ruling United Russia party. Navalny's close associate, Leonid Volkov, wrote on Telegram late on September 6 that the site votesmart.appspot.com, the last access to the Smart Voting app, was cut off after Russian authorities had blocked all other entry points. According to Volkov, to block the site, Roskomnadzor is using a TSPU (technical tools to counter threats) system which it had forced all Internet and communications operators to install as part of the country's controversial "sovereign" Internet law. The tools block access to servers from which the app is downloaded. Also read -- Hacking Servers. Online Blocking. Police Raids. Information Attacks. What Won't The Kremlin Do To Stop 'Smart Voting'?

Roskomnadzor Imposes New Labeling Demands On Foreigners Authorities Say Violate Russian Legislation

Russian media and telecom regulator Roskomnadzor ordered foreign companies that Russian authorities find are violating Russian legislation to label online messages with this text: "The foreign person that owns this information resource is a violator of Russian Federation legislation." The requirements will apply to foreign legal entities, foreign organizations without legal entity status, foreign citizens and stateless people who "operate on the Internet on the territory of the Russian Federation." (in Russian, Current Time TV)

British Researchers Say Pro-Russian Influence Operation Targets Western News Websites

The websites of several prominent Western news outlets have been targeted by a pro-Russian influence operation that uses the websites' comment sections to distort public opinion, research conducted in Britain shows. The study by Cardiff University's Crime and Security Research Institute found pro-Russian comments often receive an unusually high number of favorable responses. These comments in turn are fed back to Russian-language media outlets and used as the basis for stories to suggest Western public approval of Kremlin policies or discontent with Western governments or institutions.

Reporters Without Borders Calls On Dushanbe To Release Convicted Journalist Khikmatullo Sayfullozoda

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) called on the Tajik authorities to release under amnesty Hikmatullo Sayfullozoda, a journalist and activist of the banned Islamic Renaissance Party who is serving a 16-year prison sentence. Sayfullozoda, who has been in prison since 2015, survived a severe case of COVID-19 and endured heart surgery in June; according to RSF Eastern Europe and Cetnral Asia Desk head Jeanne Cavelier , Sayfullozoda is in danger of dying in prison...His release could save his life. Tajik President Emomali Rahmon announced the amnesty in honor of the 30th anniversary of Tajikistan's independence, which the republic celebrates today on September 9. (Tajik Service)

Police In Russias Rostov Secretly Eavesdropped On Local Journalists

The editor-in-chief of the Rostov-on-Don, Russia based independent publication Golos, Igor Horoshilov, learned from a police interrogator that his telephone conversations, and those of other journalists, were being secretly monitored by security officials interested in investigative journalist Sergei Reznik, who emigrated from Russia in 2019 and runs several popular Telegram channels on life in the region. Horoshilov was told about the surveillance and had to sign a non-disclosure form. (Kavaz.Realii)

PRESSROOM: In First Year, Szabad Europa Fills Vital Niche In Hungarian Media Scene

In a media environment dominated by outlets associated with the government, RFE/RLs renewed Hungarian Service, Szabad Europa, has carved out an important role for itself as a trusted, digital-only source of timely, accurate, and non-partisan information. In its first year, Szabad Europa has become a market leader with its original investigations and its reporting on key topics including the COVID-19 crisis and expanding Chinese influence in the country.
Purdue alumna Heather Penney was among the first women to fly the F-16 after Congress and the Department of Defense cleared the way for women to fly combat aircraft in the 1990s. Photography by Daniel McGarrity

For years after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, only a few people outside of Heather Penneys immediate family were aware of the sacrifice the fighter pilot intended to make that morning to prevent any additional tragedy.

No one really asked, probably because no one really knew, says Penney, who graduated from Purdue in 1995 with a bachelors degree in English and in 1997 with a masters in American studies.

It wasnt until 2011, when her flight lead, Marc Sasseville, asked Penney to participate in an event acknowledging the 10-year anniversary of the attacks, that they publicly shared their remarkable story.

With no time available to arm their F-16s after learning the nation was under attack, the pilots took off from Andrews Air Force Base, fully expecting not to return. If they successfully located the hijacked United Airlines Flight 93  a flight from Newark to San Francisco that had veered back toward Washington, D.C.  they would crash their fighter jets into the rogue Boeing 757-222.

Sasseville would ram the cockpit and Penney the tail, preventing the plane from reaching its intended target, reportedly either the White House or U.S. Capitol.

When Sass and I took off, we believed that if we were successful that this was a one-way mission, that this was a suicide mission, Penney says.

Sasseville and Penney, however, never located the airliner. In fact, they later learned that their frustrating wait to be authorized for takeoff had taken too long. If not for the heroic actions of the passengers and crew who resisted the four hijackers and forced the plane to crash into the Pennsylvania countryside, United 93 likely would have become the fourth hijacked plane that morning to obliterate a national landmark.

Much later during the postmortem, I realized we took off half an hour after the passengers crashed Flight 93, Penney says. They would have reached D.C. before we ever took off.

When she relays the story today, she refers to their mission as a failure in large part because of the organizational shortcomings that prevented Penney and Sasseville from arriving in time to sacrifice their own lives.

There is nothing cathartic about continually reliving the days tragic events. She actually finds it more difficult to rehash the story than it was to board an F-16 intending to fulfill her sworn duty to sacrifice her life in defense of her country.

People always ask, So were you traumatized from the day? Penney says. And Im like, No, Im not traumatized from the day, but I pretty much am traumatized after every speech.

And yet she persists in retelling the story in media interviews, public speaking engagements and even a TED Talk to honor those whom she views as the real heroes of Sept. 11: the everyday Americans who snapped into action when they were needed most, whether as first responders in New York City or passengers on a cross-country flight who prevented terrorists from further devastating a shocked nation.

They were just ordinary Americans doing the ordinary business of their lives. And yet they had to make a choice that they never should have had to make. And that truly is where I feel the failure the most, Penney says. In telling the story, I felt very conflicted about it because we were a failure, and also I did not want it to be voyeuristic.

And so, as I began to tell the story, it became very important to me to move to a meaning that was greater than just what happened and to help people realize the storys not about me. Im simply a witness, she continues. Certainly, Sass and I were willing to give our lives. Anybody would have been willing to do the same, and I can say that with certainty because the passengers on Flight 93 did.

Purdue days

Penney enrolled at Purdue in 1992 planning to major in aeronautical engineering and join the Air Force ROTC, all in an effort to become a fighter pilot like her father, John, who flew in the Vietnam War.

There was only one problem: The Air Force had not yet permitted women to fly combat aircraft. ROTC was out.

Actually, there were two problems.

I discovered that I was just not in love with the computer programming and the engineering piece, so I did not follow the engineering track, she recalls. It just wasnt quite the right fit for me.

After one semester at Purdue, with her original plan already foiled, Penney changed her major to English, a subject in which she thrived back in high school in Colorado. She admits now that she did not have a career plan at that point. Perhaps she would have become a teacher, but that wasn't really what I was on fire to do.

In the meantime, she overloaded on coursework, frequently taking 21 to 24 credit hours per semester in an effort to graduate in three years and ease the financial burden on her parents who were putting twin daughters through college at the same time. Penney also did her part to pay the bills, washing dishes in the Earhart Hall cafeteria as a freshman and waitressing late into the night at the now-defunct Utopia Diner in Chauncey Hill Mall.

Although she no longer expected to fly fighter planes, Penney was still drawn to aviation. She earned a pilots license after her freshman year and enjoyed flying at the Purdue University Airport when she could scrape together the cash to put in the occasional hour of flight time.

She also partnered with fellow Boilermaker Krystal Lewis  who went on to become a pilot with United  to form the first collegiate team to compete in the Air Race Classic, where teams of women pilots flew a designated 2,427-mile route in the span of four days. Among the historic events alumni is another notable Boilermaker, Amelia Earhart.

Flying a 1983 Piper Warrior II they rented from the University, Penney and Lewis placed ninth out of the 42 teams that entered the 1994 race.

There are all these decision and judgment elements that go into a pilot's airmanship, so its all about the brain and how youre making these assessments and doing that kind of analysis, Penney says. And so its a really fun race because youre racing against other women in their aircraft and all the airplanes are different.

Plan A reappears

Penney was a graduate student in Purdues American studies program when she learned that Congress and the Department of Defense had eliminated rules barring women from flying combat aircraft.

She immediately began compiling the materials necessary to apply to the Air National Guard, which provided a more promising opportunity to land in a fighter cockpit than the ultra-competitive and under-resourced Air Force. And even then, the competition was extreme.

The D.C. Air National Guard invited Penney and nine other pilots to interview out of a field of more than 300 applicants, then selected just two: Penney and Eric Haagenson, who now serves as chief of the Air National Guards Combat Air Forces Division.

Penney would train to become one of the first American women to fly the F-16, which was both a tremendous honor and a status that made her self-conscious. As someone who lacked substantial flight experience or the STEM training that many pilots possess, Penney believes her gender was a point in her favor during the selection process. Becoming an expert fighter pilot would be difficult enough without the added internal pressure, as the training class only woman, to prove that she belonged.

I wanted to perform just because I wanted to be the best. I wanted to perform because why wouldnt you want to go kick ass? she says. It never bothered me that I had to be 120% better than the dudes because I wanted to be 120% better than anybody. Just because that was my objective, thats my goal, thats how Im made up.

The unfortunate thing was the awareness of being a woman and being aware of that spotlight made me self-conscious and, therefore, induced a certain amount of self-doubt and insecurity. Was I going to be good enough?

Although there was certainly competition to rank at the top of the class, Penney was encouraged and somewhat surprised by her male colleagues supportiveness during pilot training. When she struggled to master an especially tricky skill, classmates helped guide her through flight simulation until, through sheer repetition, she was finally able to get it down.

There were definitely growing pains, but the guys were great, Penney says. They were fantastic and ultimately we all shared the same goal of earning our wings, getting through whatever fighter school it was, whether it was F-15s or F-16s or A-10s or whatever, and becoming combat fighter pilots.

Even after completing training and joining the 121st Fighter Squadron, Penney still faced skepticism as the lone woman entering a space that had previously been occupied only by hyper-masculine men. She eventually won over the holdouts, however, through mastery of the F-16, which she views as her proudest accomplishment as a pilot.

It really is the pinnacle of aviation skill, says Penney, whose colleagues gave her the call sign Lucky.

The 26-year-old lieutenant was only a few months into her tenure with the squadron on the morning of 9/11 when she took off on the flight that would change her life.

She certainly didnt arrive at Andrews expecting to embark on what might become a suicide mission. Even after the first plane hit the World Trade Centers North Tower, she and a group of fellow pilots carried on with a scheduling meeting, believing that the crash had been accidental. They quickly became aware that it was no mistake when a second plane crashed into the WTC South Tower 17 minutes later.

On the morning of Sept. 11, only five fighter units across the U.S. sat alert, armed with live weapons and ready to take off and defend the nation at a moments notice. The D.C. National Guard was not among them.

In fact, without a governor to call the squadron into action, the fighter groups leaders were forced to scramble to find someone within the federal government to authorize their pilots to take off from Andrews, located in Prince Georges County, Maryland. Vice President Dick Cheney eventually authorized U.S. fighters to shoot down Flight 93, but Penney and Sasseville still didnt have enough time to arm their planes with live missiles that could take down an airliner.

Their only viable option was to crash into Flight 93.

But they were unable to arrive in time.

Shared humanity

Penney went on to participate in Operation Noble Eagle, a homeland security effort in the immediate aftermath of Sept. 11, and later served two combat tours in the Middle East. She flew more than a dozen missions in the opening hostilities of Operation Iraqi Freedom, operating as a scud hunter and offering close air support to special operations forces.

Her job descriptions have changed since then, but combat aviation still plays a central role in Penneys career. Penney flew the F-16 until 2009, when the single mom left the military to care for her two young girls. She went on to work in the defense industry, serving as a liaison between Lockheed Martin and the Air Force, Air National Guard and Congress. Today she is a defense policy expert with the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, a think tank that allows her to employ her Purdue liberal arts training while placing national security issues in the proper context.

Whats different about the liberal arts is youre training the brain to think, Penney says. Its all of those critical-thinking skills, it's the writing skills, it's the communication skills, its the ability to have a broader understanding of context. That's where the history piece comes in, the political science piece comes in. Its an understanding of our world in a much deeper and richer way than we typically approach the world that helps us have an understanding of the trajectory, how we got here, where we might be going.

Even if she no longer occupies a fighter cockpit, Penney still loves to fly, whether piloting her own small planes or serving as a flight instructor. And she continues to speak publicly about her experiences on Sept. 11 despite the frustration that those talks inevitably dredge up from her memory.

Penney observes the partisan bickering that sidetracks the United States while threats grow more complex every day, and she wants the nation to be better. By discussing the heroism displayed by average citizens who brought down Flight 93, saving countless lives in the process, Penney encourages audiences to find ways they also can work together for the common good.

It never gets easier. The only reason why I continue to do it is because of how I see it impacting the people who hear the story, Penney says. Its important to me when I tell the story that its not just traumatic, sensationalist voyeurism, but that it helps us connect to a greater meaning  the meaning of what it means to be an American, of honoring the heroes of that day, the first responders. And how can we honor their legacy? By being our better selves.
COULD TNT PUSH BACK ON THE MJF DYNAMITE PROMO, TRIPLE H, PEACOCK AND MORE

Do you think TNT will come down on AEW for the MJF promo yesterday?

What? No. There is no way they are going to be upset that a heel was effectively doing his job. That's like asking if AMC is going to get mad because the zombies killed someone on The Walking Dead. If anything, TNT should be happy. They have marketed AEW as a TV-14 show since it was created and that's what they are getting. I am glad we are watching a heel actually be a heel - when's the last time someone did something actually dastardly that crossed the line in WWE? Those sort of antics with Roddy Piper are what put WWF on the map for Wrestlemania.

If Triple H had a "cardiac issue", does this mean he's done in the ring?

Given that WWE has never cleared Jerry Lawler to wrestle again, it's quite possible that Triple H would be medically disqualified from wrestling again. I would imagine the company would view him as far more valuable as an excecutive than as a performer. Anything could happen, and I don't want to speculate on anything really, especially when he's recovering in a hospital, but my feeling is that chapter of his career could very well be over.

I am going through old ECW shows and there were several times Chris Benoit was announced for shows and then he wasn't there until he returned to leave. Any idea what happened? New Japan tours?

No, it wasn't New Japan tours. What happened is Chris Benoit was traveling from Canada to the United States on a tourist visa. He was warned at the border once and told if he tried to cross again without a proper work visa, he would be banned from entering the States. So, that was that. He returned for the final appearance, possibly because by then he had the work visa in place.

I was also watching the WWE DVD documentary on it and there were stories about talents flying under fake names and bereavement fares. How could that be pulled off given the security we have at airports.

You aren't thinking about the time period. This was the mid-1990s, well before 9/11 resulted in maximum security enforcement at airports and other major public travel hubs.

Did Peacock ever complete the WWE Network?

We are told it was completed the morning before Summerslam.

Do you ever see WWE or AEW stealing the Batman Day or Star Trek Day promotions we see from major companies and creating their own "day" like that?

Sure, it's a great promotional tool. For me, I always pay attention to May the Fourth as a big Star Wars fan. I bet with some work and partnerships with licensees either company could come up with something unique for their audience as a way to push merchandise and big events, maybe even stream a special live event like Paramount+ did for Star Trek Day this past week.

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The result can be charted: precipitation changes.

In California, two years of deep drought have set the state up for record-breaking wildfires. Already in 2021, more than 1.9 million acres have burned. Firefighters are warning that despite their all-out effort, the Caldor fire at Lake Tahoes edge may yet burn all the way to Nevada.

Out East, the ever-warming atmosphere retains more water  and then dumps it onto communities that are not built to sustain it. Some 41 million Americans, most in the East, live near enough to a floodplain to be in urgent danger from floods.

We grow used to these numbers, which once would have terrified us.

The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 left 500 people dead and 700,000 homeless, and cost the federal government around $1 billion, a full third of the 1927 federal budget. In response to the devastation, tens of thousands of Black Mississippians left their homes and moved North and West.

In that historical migration Americans today might see their future. Our sea-to-shining-sea nation is becoming less and less habitable. Those with means may move farther north, but even in Canada, projected precipitation maps are ominous. Almost no part of the North American continent is safe from fires or floods.
U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley unfortunately is thinking of running for another term. He is best known for his claim to be the source of the whistleblowers legislation and supporter of the inspectors general. He often proclaims his dedication to exercising oversight for presidents.

During the Trump presidency  the biggest embarrassment in presidential history  Chuck Grassley obediently allowed the firing and coverup by Trump of a major whistleblower, Lt. Colonel Alexander Vindman and at least six of the inspectors generals. They dared to do their job and speak out about, or look into, the criminal and corrupt behavior of Donald Trump. Not much meaningful oversight there.

Despite his oath to defend the Constitution and overwhelming evidence of Trumps criminal behavior in seeking false testimony from the government of Ukraine against now-President Biden, Grassley voted to not allow testimony from National Security Adviser John Bolton.

Bolton knew the details of Trumps impeachable crimes. Then Grassley voted to acquit the disgraced president.

The attempted coup by Trump and his mob on Jan.6 led to a second impeachment of Trump. Again, Grassley voted to acquit, choosing political power over his oath to defend the Constitution. Grassley seems to do everything he can to cover up for Donald Trump.
This new plant, which is expected to begin production in 2022, will be located in Saltillo, Mexico. It will partner with American Industries, a Mexico-based company, that helps outside companies establish and grow their operations within Mexico. Since 1976, American Industries has helped over 200 companies from across the world with this goal.

Bradford said the opening of the Saltillo facility will not lead to a reduction of HNI production efforts in the U.S., or job layoffs.

This is simply adding capacity to our organization, he said.

Bradford added HNI workers were positive about the announcement.

Because the demand has been so high, there has been a lot of overtime and people putting in a lot of long hours, so theyre appreciative of the relief that will come with opening up some additional capacity, he said.

Bradford said that HNI continues to try and attract additional employees for its Muscatine facilities. It offers hiring bonuses of $2,000 for first shift workers and $3,000 for second shift, additional worker appreciation activities, more part-time employees and an increased salary for all production workers.

Our primary focus in everything that we do at HNI is meeting the needs of our customers and being a good supplier to them. What makes us successful is good for the company and for the members. In terms of future plans, were always evaluating what we have in terms of capacity and what our customers are asking for. Continuous improvement and continually looking at the way that we do things to make sure that were being as efficient as we can is something that is built into the culture of the company, Bradford said.

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The Chicago mother of four, who hid her HIV status for 14 years because of the stigma attached to it, is using her story to help raise awareness of HIV. She is an author and an advocate for those who struggle with HIV or abuse.

The West Side native who now lives in Roseland said she spent more than a decade studying scriptures from her childhood to gain the courage to break her silence. Concerned with how her children might feel, she let them know her plans.

One of my daughters said if disclosing your status helps someone, we are for you telling people, she recalled. The morning of World Aids Day 2018, Kennedy posted on Youtube she was HIV positive.

Her family and her co-workers at Mount Sinai Hospital, where she worked as a certified nursing assistant, embraced her and remain her biggest support system, she said.

HIV stigma is still rooted in fear because of images that appeared in the early 1980s of people dying of AIDS-related illnesses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. New treatments help HIV patients reach a stage where it is undetectable and unable to infect others, and help patients live longer and healthier lives. But health officials say stigma and transmission of HIV are still issues, particularly in the Black community.
Weve been getting a lot of younger members in their 30s and 40s, and theyre seeing that its a good organization to join, he said.

In Rapid City, we get a lot of members just because Storybook Island is our project. People see that and want to come help that, and then they see what Rotary International does, Rogers said. In the 1980s, (the organization) came up with the idea that Rotary is going to eradicate polio across the world. Nobody said, Thats crazy. They said, Lets go. Now theres three countries where theres still some polio, but otherwise its gone.

Rogers father, Doug, first joined Rapid City Rotary Club in 1962. Rick initially joined in 1984 at his fathers insistence and later served for 15 years as chairman of the lighting commission for Storybook Islands Christmas Nights of Light.

Rotary Club was a good way to meet the movers and shakers in town. In those days, you had the president of every bank, of the School of Mines, the CEO of Black Hills Corp.  thats the kind of prestige it had back then and it still does internationally, Rogers said. Its a major honor to get invited to join a Rotary Club. You get into a Rotary Club and you instantly get business contacts, friendships and helping people.
I will probably work on jewelry and embroidery while people are here, and some drawings, Skrein said. Im not going to have painting because it is so messy.

Her art is filled with the expression of the subject and she has a wall full of paintings and a clipping from a magazine which she used as a starting point for a dancer in motion.

People want to know how I come up with it, Skrein said. This is how I start. I see this, then I say, I like the energy of this and make lines for guides and transfer it. I do an outline and then I say, it should be yellow and it should be a woman. Thats how it comes about.

Skreins style is influenced by her rich background in fashion and she is learning to paint landscapes.

I want to work with interior decorators to do larger pieces that are a little bit more abstract, Skrein said. Interior decorators like to merge the modern with the western and maybe they just need an abstract color or unique piece for a wall.

The AAB Tour provides the opportunity to visit with Skrein, browse her catalog of works going back to 1998, purchase one of her new works or commission a piece and get inspired.
Montana Bliss Artworks, located at 101 S. 7th St in Hamilton, will be featuring the watercolor paintings of local artist Roberta Burruss. Her focus is often landscapes because she is inspired by the beauty of Montana. Roberta will also be sharing her studio experience during Artists Along the Bitterroot Fall Tour event and show the processes she takes when building a painting. Other artists from Artists Along the Bitterroot Fall Tour will also be featured during Culture Crawl at the gallery including Leisa Lewis, Barbara Liss, Shirley Sylvester and Wendy Holsapple. Artists will be setting up their studios and offering hands-on art experiences.

Chapter One Book Store, located at 252 Main St., will be featuring Janice Mineer who will be playing her harp and signing copies of her book, Heartbeat of the Bitterroot.
A 6-year-old girl was fatally injured while riding an amusement park ride in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, according to the Garfield County Coroner's Office.

The child, from Colorado Springs, was vacationing with her family and they visited Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park on Sunday, according to a statement from the coroner's office.

The girl was riding on the park's Haunted Mine Drop, according to the coroner. The Haunted Mine Drop is billed as the world's first drop ride to go underground, according to the park website.

"Perched on top of Iron Mountain, the new attraction drops riders 110 feet down inside the mountain as they listen to ghostly mining tales from days gone by," reads a press release from 2017, when the attraction opened.

The nature of the unidentified victim's injuries was not immediately available and an autopsy is scheduled for this week, the coroner's office said Monday.
She found home in a vibrant public housing complex in the city of Kent, south of Seattle. There, residents from different countries communicated across language and cultural barriers, borrowing salt from each other or watching one another's kids. Olow felt she flourished in that environment.

Then 9/11 happened. She recalls feeling confused when a teacher asked her, "What are your people doing?" But she also remembers others who "said that this isn't our fault... and we need to make sure that you're safe."

In a 2017 Pew Research Center survey of U.S. Muslims, nearly half of respondents said they experienced at least one instance of religious discrimination within the year before; yet 49% said someone expressed support for them because of their religion in the previous year.

Overwhelmingly, the study found respondents proud to be both Muslim and American. For some, including Olow, there were occasional identity crises growing up.

"'Who am I?'  which I think is what many young people kind of go through in life in general," she says. "But for those of us who live at the intersection of anti-Blackness and Islamophobia ... it was really hard."

But her experiences from that time also helped form her identity. She is now seeking a seat on the King County Council.
The company concluded it has enough office space in downtown Richmond at its two remaining office complexes  at 600 Canal Place and at three buildings along the James River on Tredegar Street  to meet current and future needs. Dominion has about 2,500 employees downtown.

Once the Eighth & Main building is sold, those Dominion employees working there would relocate to either 600 Canal Place, to the Tredegar Street buildings or to the companys Technical Center complex in the Innsbrook Corporate Center in western Henrico County, said company spokesperson Ryan Frazier.

Many of the companys downtown employees work at 600 Canal Place, the 20-floor office tower on East Canal Street that Dominion moved into during the fall of 2019.

The company announced earlier this year that it was not pursuing plans to build a 17-story building that would have been called 700 Canal Place because Dominion could accommodate its office needs in existing buildings. The 700 Canal Place building, which would have been connected to 600 Canal Place, would have been built on the site where the companys One James River Plaza office tower stood from 1978 until May 2020, when it was demolished.
The Henrico plant makes popular snack foods such as Oreo cookies, Ritz crackers and Chips Ahoy! cookies.

The plant had been owned by Nabisco and later by Kraft Foods Inc. It now is part of Mondelez, which was created when Kraft Foods split into two companies in 2012.

The company, Shuler said, made huge profits last year because employees worked around the clock to make snacks, cookies and crackers during the pandemic. The company generated a global net profit of $3.6 billion in 2020, down from $3.9 billion in the previous year, according to regulatory filings.

The workers were the ones that got this company through the pandemic, yet they enrich themselves and are not providing a fair return for the people who made the sacrifice, Shuler said. This is something weve seen across the country that corporations will continue to line their pockets while the working people who actually make the company successful arent getting a fair return on their work.

By having a union, she said, workers are fighting back through collective bargaining to get better wages and benefits and safety protections.
She said Piranesi was the book I never thought I would get to write. I never thought I would be well enough.

For a long time, I had brain fog, and you cannot write a novel if you can get no consistency of work and you cant build on the work you did yesterday or a few days ago, Clarke told The Associated Press. But when I got better enough to be able to work fairly consistently, my cast of mind, my imagination, was not changed. The things that fascinated me and the landscapes in which I wanted to wander, that remained the same. It was perhaps one of the few things that has stayed the same about me.

She said she hoped her victory would encourage other women incapacitated by long illness.

Piranesi was published in 2020, as much of the world was experiencing lockdown, isolation and dislocation because of the coronavirus pandemic, and struck a chord with many readers and critics.

I think a lot of people who have experienced lockdown have found echoes in the situation that Piranesi finds himself in  more or less alone, in a house that is the whole world, Clarke said.
While all the worlds attention was focused on New York City two decades ago, another story was unfolding in Gander, Newfoundland.

There, at an airport where planes were diverted, thousands were reminded of the goodness that emerges in the most unimaginable times.

As captured in the Broadway musical, Come From Away, the story celebrates the friendships that were formed, the laughs that were shared and the outpouring of love that continues to this day.

Like the recent Disney+ edition of Hamilton, Come From Away was filmed before an audience. In the production, you get to see Christopher Ashleys creative direction. Using chairs, hes able to suggest everything from a Gander bar to the cockpit of an airplane. Highly inventive, the musical chairs concept was jaw-droppingly good on stage. In this adaptation, it isnt as fluid, particularly since close-ups dont show the transitions that bring the changes in venues.

Still, Kelly Devines choreography seeps through as the cast of 12 stomp through rousing numbers that talk about the concerns of plane people meshing with those of Gander citizens. Humor, thanks to Irene Sankoff and David Heins multi-layered book, is everywhere, making this a joyous look at goodness at a difficult time.
Mott said everything was ready to go until about the end of July, when an unexpected uptick in virtual learning interest resurfaced statewide, likely in response to state mask mandates and increasing COVID-19 cases that caused parents to rethink their childrens plans.

But Mott said that because of the contingency plans, they had more teachers ready and therefore were able to support and grant the requests from school divisions even as late as Aug. 30.

It became very evident in the last week of July that there was going to be the need to add more students, Mott said, noting that in recent weeks, as Virtual Virginia spaces have been granted to school systems, the program continues to prioritize for three groups of students: those who have medical conditions that require them to learn remotely, the students of military families, and those students who may have transferred to a new school division after mid-July and would have likely missed local deadlines for virtual learning.

We dialed things up a bit, Mott said, adding that strong recruiting efforts in early summer ended up paying off in the long run.

***

Locally, some school divisions are taking as many seats as they can get.
The survey can be found at fiber.allpointsbroadband.com.

All Points uses that data to map areas of need  and so far, the company has identified 8,800 locations around the county that need service. Carr also offered a glimpse of customer rates, which start with a $199 standard installation fee and then involve monthly charges of $59.99 to $119.99.

He said packages range from 50/50, meaning 50 megabits per second for both uploads and downloads, all the way to 1,000/1,000 megabits per second.

He put those numbers in real-world terms, saying that even the basic package  at 50/50 megabits per second  is strong enough to allow 10 people in one home to watch high-definition Netflix programming with no buffering or to provide Zoom capabilities for six people while four others watch Netflix.

The basic tier is a very high-quality service, Carr said. He compared the scope of the overall project to electrifying the countryside 100 years ago.

Derek Kelly, Lumens government affairs director, said his company has identified 6,482 locations that need service, including areas where the company already is active, thanks to the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, which provides federal funding for broadband in rural areas.
Hanover County added 10,000 new residents in the past decade, but most of the growth was clustered in two of its seven districts.

The Chickahominy area, which borders Henrico County and includes the Atlee community, added more than 3,800 people. The Ashland District added fewer than 100.

The uneven growth  Chickahominy and Beaverdam alone made up 60% of the population gains, according to U.S. Census figures  means the county will need to redraw its lines to make the population distribution more even.

Kevin Nelson, Hanovers information technology director, told the Board of Supervisors on Wednesday that the law requires each district to have nearly equal population.

Theres some wiggle room built in, meaning Hanovers seven districts under the 2020 census should contain between 15,318 and 16,104 people, he said. Chickahominy now has more than 18,000 people. Only two of the seven districts currently fall within the needed range.

The last time the board redrew the lines was after the 2010 census.

Districts like Ashland need to grow, Nelson said, while some in the densely populated Chickahominy District need to be redistributed elsewhere.
The loss is that this statue stood on that pedestal for 131 years. It was beautiful, stately and helps tell the story of Richmond. Removing symbols does not alter the history, but that appears to be the motivation of those seeking to tear down statues.

It comes across as an act of spite. Yes, slavery was part of our countrys and citys past. No one denies it. But how does removing symbols change history? It does not. But it makes some people feel very good about themselves. But it is a tragic loss for our citys historic profile.

The full story of Lee should be told. He opposed secession but refused to lead an army against his home. That is admirable. But the opposers of our history do not care about the full story. Their only goal is cancellation.

Matthew M. Meade, Hanover

***
The archaeologists from Historic Jamestown conducted radar tests on all four cornerstones and found a void in only the northeast stone. But masonry workers from Connecticut-based Summit Masonry & Building Restoration discovered Thursday the void wasnt space for a time capsule. It was a hole drilled into the stone to set it in place in 1887, and the rest of the pedestal was constructed around it. Summit also removed the other Confederate statues along Monument Avenue.

Its not the void they hoped it would be, Mercer said.

If the time capsule is ever discovered, it will be taken to the Virginia Department of Historic Resources for opening and care. But Brumfield estimated theres a 90% chance its contents have been ruined by water seeping into the box.

Either way, a new time capsule will be placed in the pedestals cornerstone. Richmond sculptor Paul DiPasquale designed a 12x6x6 stainless-steel box to house the artifacts. The box was sealed with silicone and pumped with argon to prevent water and air damage. There are no plans to identify it with a sign.

If the pedestal is eventually removed and a new statue or work of art is placed in the circle, the capsule will be buried underground at that location, said Tori Noles Feyrer, a member of the governors staff.
The festival this year has been downsized  about 100 films will play, almost twice the number of 2020 but roughly half of a typical year. Some of the fall's top premieres  among them Dune, The Power of the Dog," Spencer" and The Last Duel"  opted instead to first unspool at Venice (though each will screen in Toronto, too).

Some of the most anticipated TIFF debuts include Michael Showalter's The Eyes of Tammy Faye," starring Jessica Chastain and Andrew Garfield as the televangelists Tammy Faye and Jim Bakker; Stephen Karam's adaptation of his Tony-winning play, The Humans; Antoine Fuqua's Los Angeles crime thriller The Guilty, with Jake Gyllenhaal; and Dear Evan Hansen, Stephen Chbosky's musical with Ben Platt reprising his Broadway role as an anxiety-ridden, depressed teen whose encounter with another high-schooler who kills himself thrusts Evan into an awkward spotlight.

Chbosky premiered his 2012 breakthrough The Perks of Being a Wallflower at TIFF. This time, a different festival experience awaits.

The one thing Ive learned in the last year and a half is to rid myself of expectations. Nobody knows what anything is from one day to the next. So I just am grateful we were invited and Im honored we were invited to open the festival, says Chbosky. At this point, it feels like its all icing.
What we know for sure is that bad apples put everyones life in danger, including the lives of their partners and their colleagues and their fellow officers on the force, Democratic Sen. Sydney Kamlager said.

Bradford named his bill the Kenneth Ross Jr. Police Decertification Act, after a 25-year-old Black man killed in Los Angeles County in 2018. The officer who killed him was cleared of wrongdoing, but had previously been involved in three other shootings.

I believe cops who shoot people shouldnt be in our communities, and this bill gives us the ability to decertify cops when they abuse their power to harm us," Ross' mother, Fouzia Almarou, said in a statement.

The measure was co-sponsored by the Let Us Live Coalition, which includes families effected by police confrontations, but the group said lawmakers went too far in softening the bill to provide additional due process protections. The version sent to Newsom, it said, has "the potential to cede too much power to a predominantly law enforcement structure."
The process for handling workers whose exemptions are approved will vary slightly depending on the employee's job.

Workers who routinely come in contact with passengers, such as flight attendants, gate agents and pilots, and whose exemptions are approved will face indefinite unpaid leave starting Oct. 2. They won't be allowed back on the job until the pandemic meaningfully recedes, according to one of the memos.

Employees who rarely deal with passengers  examples include baggage handlers and mechanics  and whose exemptions are approved will also be put on leave, but only until the airline comes up with a plan for weekly testing and mandatory mask-wearing for them.

Headquarters employees whose exemptions are approved will be placed on leave until United decides on safety measures, including whether the person needs to come into the office.

In explaining the rules to employees, United cites statistics on the state of the pandemic in the U.S., where new infections are at their highest level since March and likely to rise into the fall as more people are hospitalized. Most of the cases, hospitalizations and deaths are occurring among unvaccinated people, the memos said.

Chicago-based United has taken the strongest pro-vaccination stance among U.S. airlines. Delta Air Lines says it will levy a $200 monthly surcharge on unvaccinated employees who are covered by the companys health plan. Others including American Airlines say they will cut off paid leave for unvaccinated workers who contract COVID-19.
Larry Tingle, 82

North Chesterfield

***

The U.S. airspace system is closed

We departed Morristown, N.J., 25 miles west of Manhattan, on time. We pointed the King Air southeast toward the Jersey coast and were climbing into that incredibly blue sky. The route to Richmond took us toward Atlantic City before turning west toward Dover and then Richmond.

The flight up had been beautiful and you could see the towers from a substantial distance. After our turn toward Dover, we began to pick up chatter on the radio about an aircraft accident involving the World Trade Center. It seemed unlikely on such a clear day. We were perplexed.

Additional information started being relayed by pilots as they received information from the ground on company frequencies. It was becoming clear that something was terribly wrong. Air traffic control was trying to keep us informed, but things were happening too quickly. Then we received the broadcast: All aircraft standby for specific instructions. The United States airspace system is closed.

We were cleared to Richmond to land. After landing, and before opening the passenger door, I briefed the passengers on what we knew.
Born of the crucible of 9/11, hostility for foreigners would further shape the states politics in 2015 and 2017.

In 2015, pitiless attacks in Paris by Islamists and their aftermath spurred Republicans to press then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat running this year for a second non-consecutive term, to resist President Barack Obama on resettling Syrian refugees in more than two dozen states.

Several Republican legislators vowed to introduce bills in Richmond closing Virginia to Syrians. Even Democrats got in on the act. U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-11th, would be the only Virginian among 47 House Democrats to support a Republican proposal to erect obstacles for Syrians and Iraqis trying to enter the United States.

Two years later, only days into his presidency, Donald Trump imposed his so-called Muslim ban. It temporarily closed U.S. borders to nationals from seven majority-Muslim nations, triggering an outcry in multi-hued Virginia that would contribute to a landslide victory for governor in November by Democrat Ralph Northam, widely interpreted as an early repudiation of Trump.

But before the nativist spasms of the Trump years, an unanticipated Senate campaign in 2008 would bring front and center two figures from 2001 for a surly face-off over their management of the states finances: Mark Warner and Jim Gilmore.
Winsome Sears, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, let go of approximately six people on her campaign team on Wednesday.

Mike Allers, who was Sears press secretary but is now out of a job, said he was notified by a representative of the Richmond political consulting company Creative Direct, which had been working with the Sears campaign for a few weeks.

Campaigns retool all the time, Sears said in an interview late Wednesday. Were trying to be more lean and thats it. There is no big story here.

Campaigns retool. Glenns has retooled, she said, referring to GOP gubernatorial nominee Glenn Youngkin. Everybody elses has retooled. Im just doing it a little bit later.

Also let go was campaign manager CJ Jordan, Allers said, saying that approximately six people were affected.

Allers said he wasnt sure what led to the decision, had enjoyed working on the campaign and was disappointed.

I was not told, he said.

Sears declined to get into specifics.

Sears faces Democrat Hala Ayala in the Nov. 2 election, in which former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, a Democrat, faces Youngkin at the top of the ticket.
With no disloyalty in our hearts to the government under which we live and with no desire to awaken or perpetuate old animosities, McKinney said, we come with sacred memory for our cause which is lost, with a love and admiration for our dear ones who have fallen which is unconquerable and eternal. This is the feeling of the Southern people.

Confederate Gen. Joseph E. Johnston then took the rope and looked up to the veil covering Lee.

He hesitated a moment. The quiver of his hands was perceptible. Every eye in the great throng was fixed upon the veil, the Dispatch wrote. It parted at the top and General Lees head appeared in sight. The covering hung slightly on the shoulders of the rider. General Johnston gave another pull and the veil, which was in two pieces, fell on either side of the monument.

And there was Lee, atop more than 40 feet of granite  a calm, majestic figure, gracefully outlined against the bluest of Virginian skies, the report said. It was like a dream. Here Lee was once more among his faithful people.

Tens of thousands of yells greeted him. Hats and handkerchiefs were thrown into the air as such was never seen before.
Masking toddlers adds

hazards  not safety

Editor, Times-Dispatch:

Masking 2-year-olds imposes a clear cost on their mental, physical and developmental well-being  as they are being asked to restrict breathing, breathe through a potentially dirty mask, not see other faces and be deprived of their ability to nonverbally communicate. The virus poses virtually zero threat to healthy 2-year-olds, and there is scant evidence that asymptomatic 2-year-olds can be contagious.

These children are being asked to pay a nontrivial price in exchange for no benefit to themselves. Is there benefit to others? Even if we pretend that it is acceptable for adults to push costs onto 2-year-olds instead of bravely protecting them, where is the evidence that there is any good achieved by forcing 2-year-olds to wear masks? Population-level data on mask mandates does not support this claim.

It is the duty of public health officials to produce clear and compelling data to this effect, if any such data exist. The burden of proof is on them, not parents, as they are the ones demanding an unreasonable sacrifice on the part of our children, and they are supposedly the experts. The state must not demand that we sacrifice our own childrens well-being in the name of public health.
Why cant we even get people to come together and get a new George Wythe built now, that students needed yesterday? asked former Richmond School Board member Donald Coleman.

Chalk it up to the unfinished business that permeated Wednesdays proceedings.

Its an incredible moment, said Richmond City Councilman Andreas Addison. But I think its more of a symbol of the work to do now. Its the hard steps now that are going to be taken to remove the systemic racism that these have embodied for so long. Its going to take a lot of hard work.

That last sentence was the punctuation mark on a morning of celebration to a backbeat of hip-hop music from onlookers outside The 1805 apartment building.

Robert E. Lee! You was late on your rent! Youre evicted! one person shouted.

Soon, a statue that had been a towering fixture was humbly reduced by an unwillingness to abide Lost Cause idolatry any longer.

Were ecstatic, said Lawrence West, founder of Black Lives Matter RVA and a regular around the circle, which was reclaimed and informally renamed for Marcus-David Peters, a Black high school teacher who was shot and killed by a Richmond police officer during a mental health crisis in May 2018.
Carilion Clinic plans to begin treating patients this fall at its new hub for childrens services at Tanglewood Mall.

Carilion Childrens Tanglewood Center, which occupies 150,000 square feet formerly home to a J.C. Penney, is expected to be fully operational by Oct. 4.

Dr. Donald Kees, interim chair of pediatrics, said Carilion has been expanding its pediatric specialty care for years, serving not just the local community, but a wide swath of Southwest Virginia. Many of those specialists were based at Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital, he said, but they lacked a dedicated space of their own.

The new facility at Tanglewood creates a centralized space for Carilion Childrens that allows for more collaboration, establishes a sense of identity and offers high visibility given its location just off U.S. 220, Kees said.

It also improves the patient experience, he said, creating a one-stop shop for families with children who see numerous specialists.

More than a dozen pediatric specialties will be housed at the new center. Additionally, some general pediatric patients will be seen at the facility, where evening and weekend appointments will be available.
While there has been a concerted push for more renewable energy in Virginia, the movement has gained little momentum in the Roanoke Valley when it comes to major projects.

The Westlake proposal would have been the regions first utility-scale solar farm. And a wind farm proposed six years ago in Botetourt County has faced a number of setbacks.

The latest came in July, when the countys zoning administrator ruled that Rocky Forge Wind did not qualify for a statewide exemption passed by the General Assembly for some projects that were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Because a final site plan was not approved by May 26, a special exception permit granted to the project had expired, Drew Pearson determined.

Apex Clean Energy, the projects developer, appealed that decision to the countys board of zoning appeals. The issue is scheduled to come up at an Oct. 12 meeting.

Meanwhile, Apex has sued the county and Pearson in Botetourt County Circuit Court, saying that he lacked the legal authority to make his decision. A second lawsuit, filed late last year by a group of citizens opposed to the 612-foot turbines, challenges a permit issued to Rocky Forge by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality.
This time around, Cunningham is lodging in a hotel. More typically, his digs are a tent or a trailer.

Among other items, hes in charge of overseeing the firefighters sustenance with food, water, ice, Gatorade, medicine and more. That requires many tractor-trailer loads of deliveries daily. The personnel are served via mobile kitchen staffed by California prison inmates.

Each kitchen is composed of about 10 full-sized truck trailers that unfold and fit together to create one massive food-serving behemoth. The firefighters are served hot breakfasts and dinners and take their lunches to go.

Cunningham said he wouldnt be surprised if hes in California for the rest of the year. Thats because, for the last 10 years or so, Californias fire season hasnt usually settled down until November or December, he said.

For the past six years, Ive been out here until Thanksgiving or Christmas, Cunningham said.

The best most wildfire-fighting efforts can accomplish is to contain rather than extinguish the blazes, he explained. Theyll burn on until rain and snow in the fall and winter douse the last embers.
Earlier this year, he said that he looked forward to presenting his case in court, saying there are two sides to every story. Groseclose did not return a more recent call from The Roanoke Times.

In his case and others, prosecutors have a huge trove of evidence  including footage from surveillance cameras, posts to social media and thousands of tips submitted by the public  that they are sifting through to determine what needs to be shared with which defendants.

Romano said that task is mostly complete for Groseclose, but for additional footage from different camera angles that his attorney has requested.

Groseclose was seen in photographs wearing a gas mask as a horde of people, many of them wearing pro-Trump apparel or waving signs in support, forced their way into the Capitol as lawmakers were rushed to safety.

At one point during the approximately two hours Groseclose spent in the building, authorities say he joined a group of protesters as they prevented police officers from closing a roll-up door in the Crypt, a circular room located directly below the Rotunda, as the mob advanced.
A person being pursued by police fired multiple shots out of a vehicle window Wednesday while attempting to flee, according to the Christiansburg Police Department.

The suspect, whose name wasnt immediately released, led authorities on a chase from Montgomery County, up Interstate 81, and toward Salem, before crashing on Riverside Drive, officials said.

First responders took the suspect to LewisGale Medical Center for injuries sustained in the wreck. No officers were hit by the gunfire, officials said, and none of them fired their weapons.

The incident kicked off about 2:25 p.m. Wednesday when staff at the Elliston Food Mart in Montgomery County reported that a man flashed a gun at an employee.

Clerk Jamie Ballard said a man had come into the store, picked up a bag of chips and a drink, then walked out. Ballard approached him in the parking lot to remind him to pay.

Next thing I know, a gun is in my face, he said, speaking by phone with The Roanoke Times. Terrified, he said, he turned and fled back into the store. The man got into his vehicle and drove away.

Ballard was left badly shaken by the incident. My nerves are shot, he said. Ive never had anything like that happen to me.
CHRISTIANSBURG  The Montgomery County School Board has approved an adjustment to how the district communicates COVID-19 cases in a specific school.

The measure, which passed on a 5-2 vote late Tuesday following a lengthy debate, involves the sending of a weekly email to a specific school community with a summary and link to the Montgomery County Public Schools COVID-19 online dashboard whenever weekly cases in a certain school are above 1.5% of that buildings population.

The school board, which shot down two other related proposals during the meeting, approved the measure amid some criticism from parents in the community over the level of transparency from the district on its reporting of COVID-19 cases.

The issue was also visited as cases have been regularly reported by the schools since the Aug. 12 start of the school year. Local health officials previously predicted that there would be a surge in cases in the area amid the national rise of the delta variant.

One county campus that has stood out with cases is Christiansburg Middle School, which has so far this school year reported 47 cases, based on district data provided Wednesday. It has by far the most cases of any school in the district and has surpassed the leader from last school year, Blacksburg High School.
The description of what went right for the U.S. and NATO in Afghanistan is short. After the 9/11 attacks on America, the need to eliminate terrorists operating out of Afghanistan was patently clear. The American and NATO invasion of Afghanistan in October 2001 quickly defeated and chased the governing Taliban and their fellow al-Qaida extremists into sanctuaries in Pakistan.

This fundamental war aim was promptly achieved, and a new Islamic democratic government was installed.

But that achievement was not maintained. After nearly 20 years of fighting, the Taliban have returned  along with al-Qaida and ISIS.

What went wrong?

Under the U.S. Army/Marines 2006 Counterinsurgency Manual, the militarys strategy was clear, hold, build. The 2014 update now dubs this strategy: Shape-clear-hold-build-transition. The theory is once a district is cleared, held, institutions and infrastructure built, and the attitude of the local population shaped, the new government can be transitioned in.

The policy should have been clear, hold, build and pursue, with the main effort being constant pursuit. The failure to relentlessly chase down and eliminate the insurgents allowed them to return and reestablish themselves.
Police in Madrid have arrested in a hideout apartment a former Venezuelan spymaster on U.S. narcotics charges more than a year after he defied a Spanish extradition order and disappeared
FLORENCE, S.C.  The executive director of the World Food Program is calling for the worlds billionaires to step up and help his organization fight hunger.

David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Program since 2017, mentioned billionaires near the end of his keynote address at the 2021 Greater Florence Chamber of Commerce Membership Luncheon Thursday afternoon at the Florence Center.

The wealth that we have in this country is extraordinary, Beasley said. Last year, at the height of COVID, a billionaire was created every 17 hours. The average net worth increase by the billionaire community  thats over 2,000 billionaires worldwide  was $5.2 billion per day.

Beasley said he was supportive of capitalism but added that capitalism without a heart is a disaster. He said that the COVID-19 pandemic and the related government-mandated shutdowns to slow the spread of the virus caused over 100 million people to be on the brink of starvation worldwide.

Beasley said systems in place had reached and lifted around 90% of the world out of abject poverty but added that the systems needed to be improved to reach the other 10%.
Open letter to

SC Rep. Jay LucasDear S.C. Rep. Jay Lucas:

As an educator and conservative, Proviso 1.108 causes me grave concern. Our children need to be in school, but your proviso makes that nearly impossible. By not allowing districts to mandate masks, there are more quarantined students and staff and more cases of COVID. As I am sure you know, substitutes to cover teacher absences are hard to come by, and you cannot run a school without staffing. Just one month into the school year, we educators are already overwhelmed. This pace is not sustainable.

Conservatives typically favor local control, but in this instance you and your colleagues have exerted control from the state level to prevent school districts from protecting the children under their care. Could it be that you are using this pandemic for political gain? Are you yielding to citizens who claim that masking is an infringement on their personal rights? If so, you and your colleagues would do well to remember that there are other voting conservatives in this state whose values are in direct contrast with those who have politicized a pandemic.
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New Delhi [India], September 9 (ANI): Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Peter Dutton will arrive in India on Friday to hold '2+2' ministerial dialogue.

Australian ministers will hold a '2+2' ministerial dialogue with Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.

"These inaugural 2+2 discussions are a cornerstone of the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is founded on a shared commitment to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region," Payne said.

The relationship between India and Australia is at a historic high. The ministers will discuss issues including economic security, cyber, climate, critical technology and supply chains.

Australia's Foreign Ministry on Wednesday said in a statement that their ministers will be visiting Indonesia, India, South Korea and the United States.

This visit will attempt to advance Australia's relationship with their close friends and strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific region, confirmed the statement.

2+2 meetings of Foreign and Defence Ministers will be conducted with all the four countries across the Indo-Pacific region. This joint visit will strongly reinforce Australia's active engagement in the region. (ANI)
Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns

Islamabad [Pakistan], September 9 (ANI): US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns had a meeting with Pakistan Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, during which they discussed the current situation of Afghanistan.

According to a statement by Pakistan military media wing--the ISPR-- the discussions included regional security situation and the current developments in Afghanistan, Dawn reported.

"It was reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for Afghan people," the statement said.

CIA chief's visit to Pakistan came a day after he visited New Delhi and met Indian officials.

His visit to India and Pakistan comes amidst the fluid and precarious security situation in Afghanistan, which plunged into a crisis last month and where the Taliban recently announced its interim government.

The cabinet members consist of many Taliban figures who are considered hardliners. The list announced by chief spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid is dominated by members of the group's old guard.

Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund has been appointed as Prime Minister with two deputies Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Molavi Abdul Salam Hanafi.

Burns had during his visit to Afghanistan last month met the Taliban leadership, including Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar.

This was in the context of the evolving security situation in the war-torn country, which was challenging for the Americans to evacuate Americans, Afghans and several nationals from other countries. (ANI)
About 252,000 new coronavirus cases were reported among children last week, according to data compiled by two health organizations. This marks the largest number of new pediatric COVID-19 cases in a single week since the pandemic began, and it comes as millions of kids head back to school.

This surge in pediatric cases between Aug. 26 and Sept. 2 represents nearly 27% of all new COVID-19 cases reported during that time period, according to the weekly report by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Childrens Hospital Association. The organizations compiled data from 49 states, New York City, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam.

There was a drop in child COVID-19 cases around the start of summer. Just 8,447 new pediatric cases were reported during the week of June 24, which is roughly 30 times less than the total reported last week. A case decline was seen among adults earlier in the summer as well, and pediatric cases appear to have generally risen and fallen with the number of cases reported among adults.

COVID-19 cases among children (seen in dark blue) rose recently to their highest level since the start of the pandemic. Cases among adults (seen in light blue) have also gone up. (Photo: aap.org)

Geographically, the South has seen the highest spike in pediatric cases in recent weeks. Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi are among the states that saw the highest number of new cases between Aug. 19 and Sept. 2. California, the nations most populous state, has reported the highest number of pediatric cases since the start of the pandemic, followed by Florida and then Illinois.

The AAP and CHA noted that their data was limited due to some states no longer reporting child hospitalizations or undercounting cases.

Southern states have reported the highest number of new COVID-19 cases among children over the past week. (Photo: aap.org)

As of Sept. 2, more than 5 million children have tested positive for the coronavirus in the U.S. since the start of the pandemic.

More research is needed to determine the viruss long-term effects on this younger population, but the AAP said current data indicates that COVID-associated hospitalization and death are uncommon in children.

At this time, it appears that severe illness due to COVID-19 is uncommon among children, the organization said. However, there is an urgent need to collect more data on longer-term impacts of the pandemic on children, including ways the virus may harm the long-term physical health of infected children, as well as its emotional and mental health effect.

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Over the past month, roughly 55,000 children have been admitted to U.S. hospitals with cases of COVID-19. Hospitalizations among children had been falling since January but abruptly skyrocketed at the start of July, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Plexiglass dividers surround desks as students return to in-person learning at a school in Long Beach, California, on March 24. Pediatric COVID-19 cases had dropped at the start of summer but are now again rising. (Photo: PATRICK T. FALLON via Getty Images)

Both the AAP and CHA have encouraged all eligible Americans to get vaccinated as soon as they are able. Children become eligible at age 12.

Roughly 62% of people ages 12 and older have been fully vaccinated in the U.S. as of Tuesday, according to the CDC.

Federal health officials have suggested varying timelines for when vaccinations may be available for those younger than 12. AAPs president, Lee Savio Beers, said Tuesday that she expects vaccine trial data for children to be submitted to the Food and Drug Administration for review by the end of this month or early October. The vaccine will then be considered for emergency use authorization.

And so what that means is that once that data is submitted, the FDA will have a chance to look at it to determine the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine and consider the risk-benefit for children, she told NPR.

CORRECTION: A previous version of this story stated that the latest weekly count of pediatric cases was three times higher than the weekly cases reported in June. It was 30 times higher.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
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Kathmandu [Nepal], September 9 (ANI): Nepal's Pashupatinath Temple, a famous Hindu place of worship remained closed this year on the occasion of the Teej festive due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Even though the Pashupatinath temple was closed, devotees performed rituals in the Pashupatinath area. The annual festival is celebrated across the country by worshipping Lord Mahadev and Goddess Parvati.

"Teej is one of the most celebrated festivals in Nepal with all these women clad in red attire. It feels really sad that the temple is closed and women do not get a chance to worship their god as they have planned but still we see a lot of crowds here today, a little more than last year," Shivani Chemjong, a devotee who arrived at Pashupatinath Temple on the occasion of Teej told ANI.

This festival also celebrates womanhood as well as giving a chance of a reunion with maternal family and friends where married women express their pain and sorrow through songs.

The Teej festival, which formally begins on Wednesday, is celebrated till Rishi Panchami. "We woke up early in the morning and took bath. Then we came to the temple for worship with the hope that it is open. But it was closed. I performed pooja from outside the walls, danced and sang songs for a while; for the whole day, I would fast," Anjana Adhikari, another devotee told ANI.

The Pashupati Area Development Trust has closed the temple since the second week of April but is planning to reopen it from next Friday. (ANI)
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Kathmandu (Nepal) [India], September 9 (ANI): Repeated school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic have led to alarming levels of inequities in learning opportunities for children in South Asia, despite significant efforts by governments and partners to expand remote learning, according to UNICEF research conducted in India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

According to UNICEF research, school closures in South Asia due to the COVID-19 pandemic have interrupted the learning of 434 million children. According to UNICEF's research, a substantial proportion of students and their parents reported that students learnt significantly less compared to pre-pandemic levels.

In India, 80 per cent of children aged 14-18 years reported lower levels of learning than when physically at school. Similarly, in Sri Lanka, 69 per cent of parents of primary school children reported that their children were learning "less" or "a lot less." Girls, children from the most disadvantaged households and children with disabilities faced the biggest challenges while learning remotely while 147 million children in South Asia have no access to remote learning during COVID.

"School closures in South Asia have forced hundreds of millions of children and their teachers to transition to remote learning in a region with low connectivity and device affordability," said George Laryea-Adjei, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia. "Even when a family has access to technology, children are not always able to access it. As a result, children have suffered enormous setbacks in their learning journey."

Despite significant efforts from governments, low connectivity and access to digital devices have severely hampered efforts to roll out remote learning. In India, 42 per cent of children between 6-13 years reported not using any type of remote learning during school closures. In Pakistan 23 per cent of younger children didn't have access to any device that could support remote learning. Poor and disadvantaged households have been the worst hit, with many families struggling to afford even a single device.

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Even when devices are available, UNICEF's research indicates that they are often underutilized and that children's access to them is often limited. For example, in Pakistan, among children with access to devices, only about 24 per cent could use them when they wanted to.

The research found that student-teacher engagement, when regular and reciprocal, is a strong predictor of success in children's learning, especially for younger students. However, the surveys found that most students had little or no contact with their teachers after schools closed. In Sri Lankan private primary schools, 52 per cent of teachers reported contacting their students five days a week, but this number dropped to only 8 per cent for teachers from public primary schools.

Parallelly, investing in teachers will ensure that teachers and schools can adapt to all situations. The more teachers are trained, equipped and supported on distance and blended learning, the better they will be able to reach all their students, added George Laryea- Adjei.

"This is a critical investment we need to make for children as the region gears up for future waves of covid-19. We need to build systems which can weather any storm and keep children learning, no matter the circumstances."

To ensure that children keep learning, UNICEF called upon governments to prioritise safe reopening of all schools, while also ensuring that children are able to pursue quality learning remotely, if necessary, teachers to assess children's learning levels and ensure catch up is enabled through governments to prioritize the vaccination of teachers to support the safe reopening of schools.

The UNICEF also asked governments to train and equip teachers to better reach children and adolescents with limited or no access to technology through a combination of modalities including mobile devices, TV, radio, and printed materials.

If added that school administrators and education officials should provide more guidance to teachers to engage with their students and use different types of learning techniques.

Even before the pandemic, almost 60 per cent of children in South Asia were unable to read and understand a simple text by the time they are 10 years old.

In addition, 12.5 million children at the primary level and 16.5 million children at the lower secondary level were out of school.

Speaking on school reopening, Dr Yasmin Ali Haque, Representative, UNICEF India said, "Going to school is a central part of children's life. The prolonged school closure due to COVID-19 has caused many children to miss out on learning, social interaction and playtime which are essential to their overall development and well being. Safe and gradual reopening of schools in the states of India is a welcome move as children learn best in person and this will help prevent further learning loss and alleviate some of the psychological stress they are facing. The safety element is critical, Teachers, parents, children and communities can work together along with the Government, to put in place the protocols needed for children to return to schools and learn in a safe environment."

"We need to focus on rapidly building capacities of teachers who can support learning both in the classroom as well as at home more effectively. We have examples from states like Bihar, where several devices are being purchased for students to support learning. Now is the time to plan and put the structures in place to transition children back into learning. We need to build back better and stronger," she added. (ANI)
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Adventurous Muscovites may soon be able to travel around parts of Moscow in driverless taxis as Russian tech giant Yandex plans to start testing the autonomous vehicles in the city this year, the company said on Wednesday.

Yandex, which operates a raft of services from online search to food delivery, has been testing self-driving technology for more than three years in Russia, Israel and the United States.

Robotaxis will available through the company's Yandex.Go application in one Moscow district for certain customers, Yandex said in a statement.

"The launch in Yasenevo is the first stage of a large Yandex project to launch driverless taxis," the company said. "Over time, there will be more cars, the number of locations you can go to and from will increase, and ever more people will be able to hail driverless taxis."

Russian legislation does not yet allow driverless vehicles to travel without a person at the wheel, except in special economic zones, such as the city of Innopolis in the Tatarstan region.

Restrictions on their use in certain areas of large cities could be partially lifted after a law came into force this year.

Yandex's fleet of around 170 driverless cars has travelled more than 14 million kilometres. The company also has self-driving robots for food delivery, which already operate on some U.S. college campuses through a partnership with online food-ordering company GrubHub.

Yandex owns a 73% stake in Yandex Self-Driving Group (SDG) and has agreed to buy the remaining share from Uber by the end of the year.

(Reporting by Gleb Stolyarov; Editing by Alexander Marrow and David Gregorio)
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Kabul [Afghanistan], September 9 (ANI): The blitzkrieg of the Taliban in Afghanistan is an issue of debate among experts. Apart from determination, a military conquest is also a battle of resources, so where did the Taliban get the funds to conduct their blitz through the nation while they kept negotiating in Doha?

Sergio Restelli, writing in The Times of Israel said that this brings to the fore the question that even after 20 years of constant efforts to root out the Taliban, how did they have the strength and the capacity, not to mention the wherewithal to press for a military offensive and take the entire nation in a handful of days?

Terrorist groups, like criminal organisations, aren't very keen on transparency and accountability so much forensic financial intelligence is required in these cases to connect the dots and trace the source of funds. Recently, British media organisations have invested deeply to discover the Taliban's funding network, reported The Times of Israel.

Apparently, the Taliban financial network is far more complex than was earlier expected. It is a sophisticated financial network with a disciplined system of taxation that pays for insurgent operations as well as salaries and general services.

Their annual revenue is estimated at around USD 400 million though some experts peg it to have increased substantially over the last few years to around USD 1.2 billion, said Restelli.

It is suspected that a large part of their income is derived from the narcotics trade. In fact, the Taliban apparently collects about 10 per cent as cultivation tax from opium farmers and 15 per cent as heroin tax from laboratories and smugglers that smuggle narcotics into Pakistan. This, by itself, is a revenue stream estimated at USD 250-300 million.

However, contrary to popular belief, it is not really the poppy business that is at the core of the Taliban's income, said Restelli.

In areas within its control, the Taliban maintains a taxation regime meant to act as a security/protection tax.

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Interestingly, there is a Taliban Financial Commission that issues regular diktats to traders and transporters to pay taxes while travelling in areas that are controlled by them. Oddly enough, the other major source for income generation for the Taliban is energy, telecommunications and mobile operations.

In a letter that was made public by media outlets, the Electricity Company of Afghanistan went on record to state that the Taliban had been earning more than USD 4-5 million annually by billing electricity consumers in areas that it had controlled, Restelli said.

Afghanistan is rich in minerals and precious stones, which were exploited by all sides in the decades of conflict. Most extraction done so far has been done illegally and on a micro level, though the potential of the industry is estimated to be around USD 1 trillion. Simply by placing roadblocks on routes connecting these mining sites with towns, the Taliban has easily taken control of these mining locations.

In fact, most trucks leaving these sites are forced to dump half of their cargo at gunpoint. Extortion from legal as well as illegal mining operations has increased manifold over the years.

The United Nations Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, in their annual report of 2014 of the had stated that even then the Taliban controlled around 35 mining operations in Helmand province, thereby earning over USD 10 million a year.

The most significant and dangerous source of funding that the Taliban receives is political, from external states. Though Afghanistan's civilian government and the US have accused regional governments like Iran and most importantly, Pakistan, of financing the terrorist group, such claims have been largely ignored, reported The Times of Israel.

If there was any doubt about the intention and the nexus between the Taliban and Pakistan one just needs to see the days after the fall of Kabul.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan declaration that 'the Taliban insurrection in Afghanistan is a holy war against the occupation by foreign forces.' shows Pakistan's support of a terrorist organisation that they have received billions of dollars in aid to destroy.

Private high net worth individuals from Pakistan and other Gulf countries have been under surveillance for contributing substantially to the Taliban to the tune of USD 200 million as per a classified CIA report from 2013 which was leaked.

Under the tag of aid for the war on terror, Pakistan has obtained arms, equipment as well as ammunition from the US that have been sold at large profits or at times donated to the Taliban. There is no other plausible justification to why the Taliban has access to US arms and ammunition, reported The Times of Israel.

The reaction of the global community to a Pakistan run, terrorist led Afghanistan, of which the cabinet is a list of terror incorporation's most wanted, will decide the future of global security, said Restelli. (ANI)
Photo credit: TARIK TINAZAY - Getty Images

If underwater relics entice you, like this flooded prison in Estonia , get ready to add a new excursion to your bucket list: See the sunken ships from World War I off the coast of Turkeys Gallipoli peninsula. The shipwrecks are set to be made accessible as a marine park for tourists this month, The New York Times reports .

The park was originally supposed to open in spring 2021, according to Daily Sabah , but the pandemic delayed it. The sunken ships come from the Gallipoli military campaign during the war. Among the remnants is the HMS Majestic, a battleship commissioned at Portsmouth, England, in 1895 that was torpedoed, sunken, and blown up. Other underwater relics include live torpedos, which a Turkish official told The New York Times would need to be heavily jolted to detonate. There are also old cannonballs and bullets down there.

Plans to install panels with QR codes on them at different spots throughout the shipwrecks will allow divers to download images of what the ships looked like before they sank, according to the outlet.

Only certified divers will be able to explore the underwater park, so make sure you check that off your bucket list as well before planning your trip. For people who arent so into the idea of diving, there are plenty of land-based sights to seeincluding memorial sites and the Gallipoli War Museum at Kabatepe.

You love finding new travel spots. So do we. Let us share the best of them.

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Nebraska

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Proposed congressional map would split Nebraska's blue dot

Nebraska's existing congressional districts, approved in 2011, are shown above. Courtesy photo District 39 Lou Ann Linehan Elkhorn Elected 2016 402-471-2885 llinehan@leg.ne.gov Courtesy photo District 13 Justin Wayne Omaha Elected 2016 402-471-2727 jwayne@leg.ne.gov

LINCOLN  A Republican redistricting proposal unveiled Wednesday would cleave off Democratic-leaning northwest Douglas County from a Nebraska congressional district that has been won by presidential and congressional Democrats at various points over the past decade.

State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, the GOP chairwoman of the Legislature's Redistricting Committee, distributed the proposed district boundaries at a morning committee meeting.

The map would divide Douglas County, all of which currently sits in the state's 2nd Congressional District. The district became known as Nebraska's "blue dot" following Democrat Joe Biden's electoral victory there in the 2020 presidential election.

The committee is slated to meet again Wednesday afternoon to discuss her map and an alternative proposed by the committee's vice chairman, Sen. Justin Wayne of Omaha, a Democrat.

Wayne's map would leave Douglas County whole while putting Bellevue and Offutt Air Force Base back into the 2nd Congressional District. The result would be similar to the district's boundaries following the 2001 redistricting.

The Linehan map, by contrast, would split Douglas County along Interstate 680 and West Dodge Road. Everything north and west of those main thoroughfares would move into the 1st Congressional District, which is dominated by Lincoln. The district is represented by U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry.

The revamped 2nd Congressional District would include the rest of Douglas County, all of Sarpy County and all of Saunders County. The district now is represented by U.S. Rep. Don Bacon.

All three of Nebraska's representatives are Republicans.

The largely rural 3rd district, represented by Rep. Adrian Smith, currently covers 70 of Nebraska's 93 counties, stretching from South Sioux City and Falls City to Scottsbluff and Gering in the west.

Under both Linehan's and Wayne's maps, the Northeast Nebraska counties of Dakota, Dixon, Cedar, Knox, Pierce and Wayne would remain in the 3rd district, while Madison would stay in the 1st District. The Democratic map would keep Thurston County in the 1st district, while the GOP map would shift Thurston to the 3rd District, which is one of the nation's most Republican districts.

The Democratic map evens out the population among the three districts, while the Republican map has slight deviations. Legislative guidelines call for the districts to be as nearly equal as practicable in population.

Linehan previously expressed doubt that a proposal splitting Douglas County would advance very far in the Legislature, though she said she would take a look if somebody would bring me a map that would make sense.

Linehan defended the change, saying that it would keep Sarpy County whole and follow natural boundaries. She pointed out other political districts divide Douglas County several ways, including proposed and historical Supreme Court, University of Nebraska Board of Regents and State Board of Education seats.

"I don't know why we can slice Sarpy County but we can't touch Douglas," she said.

Linehan said she worked with fellow Republicans on drafting the proposal, while Wayne worked with Democrats on the redistricting committee.

Wayne's proposal put the core of old Bellevue into the 2nd District. He said the area has common interests with Omaha and has historically been part of the 2nd Congressional District. The area was moved into the 1st District under a controversial Republican plan 10 years ago.

His map would split Sarpy and Otoe Counties. Linehan's map would split Douglas, Burt and Cuming Counties.

The committee is aiming to settle on a redistricting package by Thursday night, for distribution to fellow lawmakers and the public by Friday. The Nebraska Legislature is slated to convene Monday for a special session focused on the redrawing of state political districts that is required every 10 years following the federal census.

The Legislature has to complete its work by Sept. 30 so that counties, school districts and other local subdivisions have time to redraw their election districts and local election officials can make changes to voting precincts.

State Democrats raised accusations of gerrymandering  drawing boundaries to give one party an unfair advantage in elections  in 2011 after Republican lawmakers pushed through a plan that moved the Democratic-leaning Bellevue out of the 2nd Congressional District, where it had been traditionally, and replaced it with GOP-heavy western Sarpy County.

The change came after the 2nd District gave an electoral vote to Democrat Barack Obama in the 2008 presidential election. Unlike nearly every other state, Nebraska awards three of its five Electoral College votes based on the winner of each congressional district.

The redrawn 2nd District remains competitive, however. It elected Democrat Brad Ashford to Congress in 2014 and gave an electoral vote to Democrat Joe Biden last year.

The Journal's Dave Dreeszen contributed to this story.

OTHER VOICES: Protect Iowa's pillar of good government For those who closely watch the once-per-decade redrawing of Iowas political boundaries, what happened last week was precedent-setting.

ERIN MURPHY: Plenty of intrigue in special Iowa Statehouse election It is a race for just one seat out of 100 in the Iowa House, but a special election in one of Des Moines suburbs has enough factors at play to make it one worth watching.

Iowas urban areas grow, but rural ones drop Iowas population grew 4.7 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to Census Bureau data released Thursday, with nearly 80 percent of the growth happening in the states four largest counties -- while 68 counties posted population losses.
Recounting memorable scenes, the president reviewed Belmondo's long career  more than 80 films over six decades. The star worked with a variety of major French directors. Jean-Luc Godards 1960 movie Breathless (A Bout de Souffle in its original French title) brought both men lasting acclaim.

Belmondo, affectionately known as Bebel, played roles from thug to police officer, thief to priest, Cyrano de Bergerac to unshakable secret agent. He was also a gifted athlete who often did his own stunts.

For his family, Belmondo was still more. With his constant smile and positive outlook, he is an eternal sun, said his grandson, Victor, in a tribute. Have fun with your buddies, he concluded in a reference to Belmondo's friends who predeceased him.

Many fans inside and outside the Invalides donned rakish caps like those that have come to identify Belmondo, or concocted outfits to resemble him in his film roles.

Hats off to the artist because hes really a guy who deserves that we be here for him and thank him for the panache he had in all his films, said Frederic Zamparini, 55, in an outlandish costume like what Belmondo wore in the 1980 French-Italian comedy Le Guignolo  red polka-dot briefs and top hat.
Hanson joined the U.S. Navy Reserves as a high school senior, then enlisted in the Marines in August 1966, months after graduating from Sioux City's Central High School.

He knew nothing about the ongoing military conflict in Vietnam and said he wouldn't have been able to find Vietnam on a map. Once in the Marines, he learned plenty about it, enough that he and a service buddy -- both of them full of that Marine spirit of being first to fight -- continually asked to be sent to southeast Asia while they were serving a tour of duty in Cuba.

"We were begging to go, and finally they sent us," Hanson said.

Hanson deployed to Vietnam in November 1967, a member of Delta Battery, 2nd Battalion, 11th Marines, 1st Marine Division.

On Jan. 8, 1968, he was at his gun, firing harassment fire at suspected enemy positions near Thau Thien in South Vietnam. After being relieved for the night, he "hit the rack" to get some sleep. His rest was interrupted by shouts of "incoming," and he rushed back to the big guns as the enemy launched a mortar and rocket attack on the American position.

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The shelling eventually let up, and an officer said it appeared the attack was over moments before one more enemy shell hit.
TC Energy, the Alberta company behind the pipeline proposal, has said its committed to partnering with the 20 First Nations that have executed agreements related to the project and has provided them an opportunity to invest in it.

The FBI has been investigating the shunting incidents.

On Oct. 11, 2020, shunts were placed in three different locations in Whatcom and Skagit Counties. They triggered an automatic braking system on a train that was transporting hazardous material, causing a portion of the train to decouple from the engine  risking a derailment of tanker cars of flammable gas in a residential area, prosecutors said.

On Dec. 22, a train carrying Bakken crude oil to the Phillips 66 refinery at Cherry Point did derail, with five tanks catching fire, north of Bellingham. No injuries were reported, but the fire sent a large plume of black smoke into the sky about 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of Seattle, and 120 people were evacuated from a half-mile radius. About 29,000 gallons of petroleum crude oil spilled from three of the tank cars.

An investigation into that derailment continues, and no cause has been publicly identified.

Brooks and Reiche each face up to 20 years in prison, though as part of Brooks' plea deal the government agreed to recommend a sentence at the low end of her guideline range as determined by the U.S. District Court. Brooks is due to be sentenced Oct. 7; Reiche on Dec. 17.

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

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While prosecutors say the site published many ads that depicted children who were victims of sex trafficking, no one in the federal case in Arizona is charged with sex trafficking or child sex trafficking.

In all, six former Backpage operators have pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating prostitution. Of the six, Lacey, Larkin and two others have pleaded not guilty to money laundering charges.

The sites marketing director has already pleaded guilty to conspiring to facilitate prostitution and acknowledged he participated in a scheme to give free ads to prostitutes to win over their business. Additionally, the CEO of the company when the government shut the site down, Carl Ferrer, pleaded guilty to a separate federal conspiracy case in Arizona and to state money laundering charges in California.

Lacey and Larkin founded the Phoenix New Times, held ownership interests in other weeklies such as The Village Voice and ultimately sold their newspapers in 2013. But they held onto Backpage, which authorities say generated $500 million in prostitution-related revenue from its inception in 2004 until April 2018 when it was shut down by the government.
Gov. Ned Lamont announced Wednesday that his administration plans to close the Radgowski Correctional Center in Montville at the end of this year.

The prison, part of the two-building Corrigan-Radgowski complex, is the second of three closures that were planned as part of budget cuts for the 2022-23 fiscal year.

The move is expected to save the state $7.3 million dollars, the governor's office said.

The state shuttered the maximum-security Northern Correctional Institution in June, a move that is expected to save about $11.75 million annually. The governor's office has not announced the name of the third facility it plans to close or when that will happen.

Spending millions of dollars in annual operating costs on buildings that have historically low numbers of incarcerated individuals inside is just not a good use of resources," Lamont, a Democrat, said in a statement. "By relocating them to other facilities that have available capacity, we can deliver on our administrations goal of reducing the cost structure of state government.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The Interior Department has postponed Secretary Deb Haaland's planned visit to Alaska until later this year, a department spokesperson said.

Melissa Schwartz, in a statement Wednesday, said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution given rising COVID rates and in consultation with Alaska Native, local and federal leaders.

The Alaska health department shows most of the state is under high alert status, which is based on reported COVID-19 cases in the past seven days.

Schwartz previously said Haaland had planned to travel to Alaska, including the community of King Cove, in mid-September to meet with local officials, Alaska Native leaders and others.

King Cove is at the center of a dispute over a proposed land exchange aimed at building a road through a national wildlife refuge in Alaska. King Cove residents have long sought a land connection through Izembek National Wildlife Refuge to Cold Bay, which has an all-weather airport. Supporters of the effort see it as a life and safety issue.

In 2013, Interior Department officials declined a land exchange. Under the Trump administration, efforts to move forward with a land exchange faced legal challenges, including an ongoing case.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  A New Mexico police officer who adopted a child from a pregnant woman he found using heroin in what has been held up as an alternative to abortion is pictured in uniform on an anti-abortion billboard without his permission, his superiors say.

Albuquerque Police Officer Ryan Holets appears on a billboard along an interstate that runs through the city, along with the words "My favorite right is life."

The images include two of him holding his daughters, including one daughter he adopted from a couple he found shooting heroin while on patrol in 2017. Holets also helped raise money to find housing for girl's biological parents while they completed a drug rehabilitation program in 2018.

The heroin-using woman was pregnant at the time Holets found her, and she agreed to give up the girl for adoption after the birth.

Anti-abortion activists have held up Holets' adoption of the girl as an alternative to abortion, including the grandmother of his other daughter, Ethel Maharg.

She is the executive director of Right to Life New Mexico, the anti-abortion group that used his image on the billboard.
Texas previously allowed state-employed clergy to accompany inmates into the chamber, but its prison staff included only Christian and Muslim clerics. The new policy allows an inmates approved spiritual adviser to be in the chamber but the two cannot have any contact and vocal prayers during the execution are not allowed.

Texas prison officials say direct contact poses a security risk and the vocal prayer could be disruptive and would go against maintaining an orderly process. Aside from some prison officials, an inmates final statement and a doctor who announces the time of death, no one else usually formally speaks during an execution.

Dana Moore, Ramirezs spiritual adviser the last four years, said the request to let him touch Ramirez was about letting the inmate practice his Christian faith and treating him with a certain amount of dignity.

Moore and Kretzer say the laying of hands is a symbolic act in which religious leaders put their hands on someone in order to offer comfort during prayer or confer a spiritual blessing at the moment of someones death.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The summer that was supposed to mark Americas independence from COVID-19 is instead drawing to a close with the U.S. more firmly under the tyranny of the virus, with deaths per day back up to where they were in March.
LAFAYETTE, Calif. (AP)  A volunteer crossing guard pushed children from the path of a vehicle that ended up striking and killing him near a middle school in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Ashley Dias, 45, is being hailed as a hero after he saved a group of children leaving Stanley Middle School in Lafayette from an SUV Wednesday.

Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office said in a statement that Lafayette police officers and residents pulled an unresponsive victim from under the car. Officers administered CPR until he was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

A child who was also struck by the vehicle had minor injuries and was taken to a hospital as a precaution, the office said.

Officials didn't identify Dias but his parents, Fabio and Gloria Dias, told KGO-TV it was their son. They said Ashley lived in San Francisco but that when he visited them, he would often help out at the nearby school because they were short on guards.
Thus, we know, as Gov. Kristi Noem pointed out last week in also calling for the AGs resignation, that Ravnsborg has not accepted responsibility for this situation, despite the fact that he is both the top attorney and top law enforcement officer in South Dakota.

The attorney general has lost the respect of much of the public and, quite possibly, many of the law enforcement personnel under him.

Based on what we know of him when Ravnsborg was a Yankton attorney, there can be little doubt that this incident has had a deep impact on him  how could it not? But his actions since the incident have seemingly focused much more on legal maneuvering and political calculus rather that a sense of public responsibility, humility and contrition.

His actions have not been those of an attorney general elected by the people, but as a defendant looking for any angle to save himself.

His actions also suggest his political ambitions are still intact.

He has shown little remorse, at least outwardly, as he strives to put all this behind him and, perhaps, to take control of the public narrative.

But its not so easy. Among many other things, Ravnsborg will still have to reckon with a civil lawsuit, and he may still face impeachment by the Legislature.
LONDON (AP)  The number of workers still on furlough in Britain has fallen to its lowest level since a salary support program was first introduced at the outset of the coronavirus pandemic 18 months ago, official figures showed Thursday.

HM Revenue and Custom, which compiles the data, said that 1.6 million people remained on the government's support plan at the end of July, down 340,000 on the month before.

The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, which has kept a lid on unemployment during the pandemic despite the worst recession in Britain for over 300 years, is set to end at the end of September and unions are urging the government to come up with fresh support  particularly for sectors like aviation which are still struggling in the face of coronavirus restrictions.

Under the program, the government paid 80% of the salaries of those workers unable to work because of lockdown measures. The program helped support around 12 million people but the number has been falling as lockdown restrictions have been lifted over recent months.

July was the first month that employers had to pay 10% of the salaries of their furloughed workers, giving them an incentive to bring staff back, or end their employment. This went up to 20% for August and September.
In the matter of a new Texas law banning abortions six weeks after gestation, when a fetal heartbeat can usually be detected by vaginal ultrasound, suppose the headlines had been different? Instead of words like most restrictive in nation (The Wall Street Journal) and Supreme Court refuses to block Texas law (The Washington Post), along with four stories splashed across the front page of The New York Times that seemed to be written from the perspective of pro-choice writers, what if the headlines had instead reflected another point of view that took the side of babies and the women who carry them?

Those headlines and stories might have read: Supreme Court decides to protect babies, recognizing Thomas Jeffersons writing about endowed life coming from God. Or, if thats too long for headline writers, how about Supreme Court takes side of the unborn? Might that have changed the perception about abortion by people who are on the fence, or conflicted? Information, including sonograms for abortion-minded pregnant women, has been shown to change minds. So has compassionate counseling and adoption services at pregnancy help centers.
This transformative investment promises to build approximately 36,000 new housing units statewide, with an average contribution per unit of more than $9,000, she said. This represents a much-needed down payment on Iowas long-term prosperity.

While Iowa today is in a strong economic position after the shock of 2020, Reynolds said, the state needs more high-quality attainable housing if its to keep up with its employment opportunities. Specifically, Iowa is expected to need another 47,000 homes by 2030  including 10,586 for Iowans earning $38,450 a year or less.

We're doing everything we can to expedite that and not only retain but recruit more people to this great state, Reynolds said. And these families  many of whom will be attracted to our state by our economic growth, our low cost of living, and safe neighborhoods  they need to be able to live in the communities where they work.

Iowa might be nationally recognized for its employment opportunities. But, Reynolds warned, Our housing shortage continues to represent a catch.

We've seen a growing mismatch between where the job opportunities are thriving and where people can find affordable places to live, she said.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. In addition to our traditional advice, every Thursday we feature an assortment of teachers from across the country answering your education questions. Have a question for our teachers? Email askateacher@slate.com or post it in the Slate Parenting Facebook group.

My fourth grade daughter just received her class assignment for the year, and for the second year in a row is alone in one class while the other three girls in her squad have the same teacher. My daughter is heartbroken. While she did make a classroom pal, she spent most of last year mooning over all the perceived fun her friends were having without her. Luckily, we did not have a mean girl situation, with the three excluding my daughter, but she is sad and anxious about them all being together without her again.

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Is it ever OK to request a teacher change for such a trivial reason? For what its worth, both teachers are great and equally desirable from a student perspective.

Tween Mom Drama

Dear Tween Mom Drama,

Its unlikely that a change will be made now that the school year has begun, but it cant hurt to ask. My suggestion is to go into the meeting with the goal of ensuring this doesnt happen again next year. By explaining your rationale and respectfully requesting the change this year, youll almost guarantee that it wont ever happen again. Play the long game.

And who knows? Maybe youll find a deeply empathetic administrator who suffered the same fate as a child and is willing to lift mountains to make the change. Unlikely, but its certainly worth a shot.

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In the meantime, Id offer lots of support in helping your daughter make connections with her new classmates, whether its through arranging play dates or offering gentle encouragement. When you meet with her teacher, Id also ask her how she might help your daughter forge some new friendships with like-minded classmates. Teachers have plenty of opportunities to help kids make friendsthrough seat assignments, group work, classroom jobs, and more, and she could be a wonderful ally on the social front. Good luck!

Mr. Dicks (fifth grade teacher, Connecticut)

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Im currently having issues with the accessible parking at my sons school, which I need to use to drop my son off, and many other parents need as well. There has been a parent without a disability placard parking in one of the two spots for over 30 minutes. The security officer is unsure what to do, and the principal (who is new to this school) was curt when I brought it up. So far their solution has been to block the spots with cones and for me to get out and move the cone when dropping off my son. That doesnt seem like a great solution. I dont know what to do, or how to bring this up. Id like to avoid calling the cops on a parent, but is that my only recourse?

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Isnt There Another Way?

Dear ITAW,

Dont call the copssurely the first step is to speak with the parent who keeps parking there.

Talk to the principal again and let them know this cone solution isnt working for you. If the security officer is outside during morning drop-off, they can speak with the parent in question. If the family actually does need accessible parking, the school can advise them on how to get the appropriate parking placard. If they do not, the officer can tell them where to park instead. And if the security officer isnt available to help, Im sure the school can figure out who the parent is and call them. Of course, you could have this conversation yourself if you arrive and the parent is in these spots again. I know its the schools responsibility, but that may be the quickest solution.

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I dont know what things are like in your area, but where I live most schools are short-staffed. Im guessing thats why the school put the cones there instead of following up with the parent, and it may be why they arent eager to help you. If they dont address this parking problem, Id let the school you know intend to file an ADA complaint. In my experience, schools are more afraid of costly fines than the police. That will motivate them to make sure everyone parks in the right place.

I hope this is resolved soon! Have a great school year.

Ms. Holbrook (high school teacher, Texas)

Were only one week into the school year and my first grader has already started complaining that shes bored at school. Frankly, she sounds like a jaded office worker. I ask her what she did and learned, and she answers, Nothing. Its so boring. Were doing the same thing that we did yesterday. Its all the same. She enjoys her friends and has fun in her after-school program, because they do fun things. What should I do at this point? Talk to the teacher? Wait and see?

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For context, she went to a very academically oriented preschool and spent some time there doing their kinder program last year when schools had shut down. Shes now in our neighborhood public school. Its possible that what shes learning now is a bit repetitive, but I truly dont know.

Jumping the Gun?

Dear Jumping,

If youre one week into school, I would wait. School always starts a little on the slow side because teachers dont know how much kids have retained from the previous school year, and this year is going to be an especially rocky start. So much learning was lost last year, not to mention that kids who were virtual need to rebuild their stamina and reacclimate to in-person school routines. Teachers need to take some time to get kids on the same page before the year kicks in.

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Once routines are established, the year will pick up, and she will be less bored. While its possible that her academically rigorous preschool covered the content thats being reviewed for the first month of school, Im confident the academic pace will start to increase. If shes still bored a month or two in, you might check in with the teacher to see what the plan for the year is. But first, give it some time.

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Ms. Sarnell (early childhood special education teacher, New York)

In these difficult times, a lot of kids dont have enough to eatfood insecurity is a huge problem. I live in Canada, and there are no hot lunches or food at my kids school because of COVID. Two of my friends are teachers at our school, and they purchase snacks with their own money, and stock them for their students. They call social services if things are really bad, but a lot of times its not bad enough for a referral to an already-overtaxed system (the social workers cant get to it because there are too many kids in more dangerous spots).

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What can I propose for our school? I cant fix the world, but kids cant be learning hungry, or worried about their preschool-aged siblings at home who are also hungry, and its not fair to put that all on the backs of teachers.

Helping Hands

Dear Helping Hands,

Thanks for this important question. Im not sure what resources are available in your school district, but Id start by reaching out to your school administrators or counselor. Given their familiarity with the communitys resources, they may be able to offer you some guidance on how to be most helpful.

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If they dont have any fruitful suggestions, Id turn to fellow parents. I have seen some schools parent-teacher associations, or PTAs, facilitate double lunch drives where families who can afford it bring two lunches, one for themselves and one for a student in a different class. The school would need to play a big role in the facilitation of a program like this, so you would need your administrations approval. Another idea would be to start a food train specifically for the families who need support, so long as you can determine a way to do so (perhaps with the school counselors help) while affording families in need their privacy. Finally, help get the word out to your school community about local food banks, shelters, and other resources. You can do this through flyers, emails, and newsletters distributed through classroom teachers. Thank you for the work Im sure you will do to fight hunger in your community.

Mr. Hersey (elementary school teacher, Washington)

More Advice From Slate

I live in a large city and am lucky to have the choice of multiple different public elementary school options. My child will be entering kindergarten, and its the time of year where Im supposed to attend open houses and put together a ranked list of my preferences for a school choice. Apart from the obvious differences, like different art/music/after-school program offerings, what kinds of questions should I be asking the principals and prospective teachers?
On Sept. 11, 2001, Aymann Ismail was 11 years old. He remembers being evacuated from his school in New Jersey, getting into a school bus, going down a highway, seeing the smoke from the twin towers. He remembers going home, waiting to hear from his dad, who worked as a driver in lower Manhattan. He remembers watching the news on TV. It wasnt until the next day that his father came homehe had walked all the way from New York City.

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After that, Aymanns school, a private Islamic school, didnt reopen right away. There was a fear that it would be unsafea target for anti-Muslim sentiment in the wake of the attacks. So Aymanns parents gave him an option to start going to his local public school in Newark, and he took it. He never set foot in his Muslim school again. When I ask him what he lost on 9/11, Aymann says, Everything. The Muslim community that I was a part of. It was a community that Id been a part of since I was born. And I would never see almost any of them ever again. On Thursdays episode of What Next, we talked about what it was like for him growing up in the shadow of 9/11, and the lasting scars of the attacks on Muslim American communities. Our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

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Mary Wilson: The Patriot Act passed within a couple months of the attacks on 9/11. It was meant to allow U.S. intelligence agencies to share information to prevent future acts of terrorism. But the law also made it easier for the government to surveil American citizens, and it relaxed the rules around federal law enforcement searching peoples homes.

Aymann Ismail: A year after 9/11, this was like 2002, a whole squad of FBI showed up to our door in Newark, New Jersey, with guns drawn and flashlights in the middle of the night, at like 4 a.m. My mother was already awake because it was the dawn prayer time, and this is the time that Muslims pray before the sun comes up. And so they must know, this must be part of their handbook, where if someones an immigrant, theyre going to pretend like theyre on your side and theyre just going to ask for permission very politely, can we come inside? Because they know they dont have a warrant. And so my mom saw the guns, she saw the flashlights, she saw the jackets with FBI written on them. And she was like, yeah, we have nothing to hide, come on in. And as soon as she said that, they rushed past her and they start tearing the place apart.

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Did you ever find out why they were there?

I dont know. They told my mom that they were looking for someone named Mohammed Mohammed, which is like the most common name in the world, so even to us its cartoonish, like does this person exist? Who knows. But no, obviously theyre not going to find someone like that, especially if theyre digging through childrens clothes and taking my toys and dumping the box and going through the kitchen drawers. They went through everything. And then when they were done, they left, and didnt really say anything.

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So, Im a little kid. Im 12 at this point. Im waking up in the middle of the night and people are shuffling through my room with guns. What am I supposed to think? How am I supposed to feel? Like, you tell me.

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Did anybody in your family try to insist on getting an explanation for why this happened, or even in years after try to figure it out or bring it up, just to talk about it?

[9/11] gave every pundit and every politician license to talk about Islam and Muslims as this theoretical thing. They can talk about Islam without actually talking to Muslims.  Aymann Ismail

No, I dont think so. I mean, youve got to remember, this is one of many different kinds of experiences. It happened so regularly. And it also happened to people that we knew, where it just felt like it was par for the course and part of the American experience. And so we just wanted to move past it. I wanted to move past it. And at a certain point, I almost thought it was coolyears later, bringing it up to my friends and being like, Oh, yeah, you know what? My familys more badass. Look at what the cops did to us. I know it sounds stupid and silly, but Im a teen, Im a little kid at that point, so Im just being real.

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I think the hardest part was knowing as a young kid that you cant trust the cops for anything and that you never called the cops because, as Muslims, theyre going to assume that were perpetrators and were dangerous regardless of whats true. So every time that I was in some kind of situation where I needed to call the cops, I never would. And I dont know any other Muslims that would either at that time.

Theres a ton of documentation about how mosque leaders felt they had to change after 9/11, they had to do more outreach to the non-Muslim community around them. Did you see that at your familys mosque?

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Oh, my God, yeah. In a very physical way afterwards. The mosque that I went to, they would do interfaith programming. They would ask some of the students at the school to go to the synagogue or the local church, just to meet other students, to do photo-ops and do outreach and teach them about Islam and learn about Judaism and Christianity. And so they were very interested in proving to the rest of the society that we were just like them and just as willing to build bridges and to build a better society.

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Just after 9/11, they had brought a huge box of little American flags to hand out to everybody. I think the mosque was aware that some people might be afraid to be the only ones not showing their patriotism or how it would look if we were the mosque that didnt have a flag. I thought it was a self-defense thing.

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What was the fear that would be articulated in the mosque?

The fear was we have to protect ourselves and specifically Muslim women who wore hijab, because they were disproportionately being harassed and being physically assaulted in the streets.  And it happened on the mosque property. There was one woman who was going into her car in the parking lot, and a gang of people basically crept up behind her and punched her in the back of the head and then ran off like cowards. We all knew people that had their cars smashed or people throwing stuff at us, and even the mosque itself several times had bomb threats phoned in.

How did it change the way you practice your faith?

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I mean, thats a big question, right? Especially since I dont know what life is like as an American teen outside of 9/11. So I almost wonder how different it would be, too.

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I cant just respond to my faith ordinarily. I need to first respond to how people will respond to me as a Muslim.  Aymann Ismail

One of the things that I think is a consequence of 9/11 was that it gave every pundit and every politician license to talk about Islam and Muslims as this theoretical thing. They can talk about Islam without actually talking to Muslims. And it wasnt until years later, so many years later, where people were finally bringing Muslims to talk on their programs about Islam. So for that whole period after 9/11, Pamela Geller and Ayaan Hirsi Ali and all of these anti-Muslim activists just had free rein to make their case, basically, that Islam and America are at war with each other and that if we accept Muslims as regular Americans were signing our death warrant.

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And so now, as a Muslim, I cant just respond to my faith ordinarily. I need to first respond to how people will respond to me as a Muslim, before I can even get to how do I feel about this one verse or that verse. And doubly so for Muslim women who wear hijabtheyre not just responding to their faith anymore when theyre wearing a headscarf. Now theyre also responding to the ways that people observe their practice and what people might assume about them because of what theyre wearing. Its a lot of work to get to the baseline where you can start responding to something on a spiritual level, because of how politically charged everything you do as a Muslim is in this country.

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You refer to pundits a lot, and not just in this conversation, in your work. And I rarely think about pundits. To me theyre very easy to ignore. And its occurring to me that thats a privilege, because usually the pundits are not talking about me and theyre not talking about my community. So I get to ignore them. And you probably felt like you had to keep tabs on what they were saying about you.

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I mean, how many people do you think watch Tucker Carlson Tonight?

I have no idea. Millions.

Yeah, over 4 million, every night. He has that many people watching, and hes conditioning these people to feel a certain way about me and my mom and my kid and everybody that I know in my community. So that matters, and that means something, because on a regular basis I interact with the people who watch that show.

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I was at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. I was there as a journalist. And there was one family that were therethey were from Greece, actually. And I approached them because they were doing a Mediterranean dance that was familiar to me because my familys from Egypt. It almost looks like a dabke. And so I was like, oh, whats their deal? So I started a conversation with them, and they basically engaged me with my identity because of that. They asked me if I was Muslim. I said yeah. And the response I got was, Well, something we dont really understandcould you please explain this to us? I said sure. They said, Why were you celebrating after 9/11? And I was like, Hmm, where did you hear that? And theyre like, Well, it happened, like Trump talked about it and Tucker Carlson said that it was true and Sean Hannity had video. And I was like, Hmm, OK, I was in Jersey City during that time. My whole family had tears in their eyes because we thought our father had died. And I could tell you for a fact that nobody in our community were celebrating. In fact, many people from our community had family who were first responders, and we werent clapping. We were looking for places to donate blood. We werent cheering. We were too busy trying to see how we can help our community that was under attack.

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And this is just a side of the story that theyve never even once considered because theyve been conditioned to think of the Muslim community as this organism that is feeding off of their society. So it matters to me, because I need to know how to argue against those points that are being made on this show, because thats part of my lived reality as an American Muslim.

In the years after 9/11, you went to high school and then college and you started a career in journalism, and in those years you also kind of had a rebellious phase. You write about being really interested in pop culture and a more secular life. Im thinking of the photography you did earlier in your careerit has this kind of rogue feel to it. And I was just curious why you felt safe enough to rebel.

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Going to a private school and then going to a public school, all of that really had an effect on me, obviously. I couldnt just be a kid in your class. I needed to also be ready to argue the tenets of Islam, because so many people had crazy ideas of what they were. You had 11-, 12-year-olds being like, Aymann, what is jihad? And why does your family want to kill my family? Questions like that. And you sort of need to be ready to answer those things. Its a lot of responsibility. So all of that responsibility at a certain point gets really, really, really heavy, and when I got to college and I was just surrounded by all these really interesting opportunities to do all these new things that Ive never tried before, I just wanted to dump all that weight off my back and just dive into something new.

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And not be the Muslim ambassador anymore?

Yeah, I was tired of it. I just couldnt care less at that point about being your Muslim.

But when you broke the rules, as a photographer and a journalist, you were singled out for harsher scrutiny. There was one story that landed you in especially hot water.

I was a journalist working at this graffiti culture magazine called Animal New York. So I met this kid who climbs bridges and I was like, yo, let me just shadow you for a night, show me how to climb this bridge, Ill go with you and well take pictures and well do an interview along the way. And so that was that. I climb down, published the pictures, wrote the story. 

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But then months later, a bunch of detectives showed up to my apartment. I wasnt there, but my roommate called me in a panic, being like, Yo, Aymann, theres like four detectives here, they want to ask you questions. Im like, OK, thats weird, but my whole life experience told me that for Muslims, this is normal.  I call the number that the detective left, gave it to a lawyer, talked to a lawyer. A lawyer was like, Theres no way around it. Theyre mad. Youve got to turn yourself in. So I do. I turn myself in that same night.

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But then they start asking me questions about what mosque I pray at, and if I know such and such person with a Muslim name, or am I involved in whatever organization. And Im thinking to myself, OK, theyre just really interested in the Muslim part of this, whatever is going on. And trespassing is a misdemeanor. So even if they had caught me in the act, they would have written me a ticket and given me a summons. I would show up to the court date. In this case, they had slapped cuffs on me and they wanted to hold me overnight. And I was like, whatever, one night. Maybe its because I turned myself in at night? No. It ended up being a 36-hour ordeal where they had kept me in the tombs.

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Im kind of stunned that youafter so much reason to think that the government would fuck you up if they caught you doing something, anything, remotely wrongIm surprised you did it. I dont understand that impulse. Do you understand that impulse?

We have to carry this around now, this trauma.  Aymann Ismail

Yeah, I mean, its a push and pull, and every day its different. And this happens to any Muslim, and theyll tell you this too, that sometimes you forget that you are some sort of pariah to the community, because you dont see yourself as a pariah. And Muslims, especially in the tristate, do so much charity work, they do so much good for the community. And when you talk to normal people who know us, they love us, and its not a big deal. So you sometimes forget that there are bad cops out there and bad judges and bad COs who want to abuse you because they might have their own personal beef or who knows whats in their heart. I was so wrapped up into this photographer community where the people who knew me had no problem with me, so I could sometimes forget that Im this dangerous person or Im supposed to be. My dad, right after, he called me an idiot. He was like, how could you let them catch you? Like, why would you think for a second that this wasnt going to happen to you? And I was like, youre right. It was my fault in the sense where I forgot, I let my guard down. 

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We are inflicted with this weight, where we have to carry this around now, this trauma. But at the same time, in order to survive and move past it, we have to just manage and make do, because we cant just sit around and think about how life sucks for us as Muslims. Were not going to get anywhere. We all handle it in our own ways. My parents are at this pointtheyre still just good people, theyre just so grateful to be in America, they love it here, they love the lives that theyve made here. They love the lives that their kids have made here. And I dont know any Muslim parents that resent the government or anything like that. Theyre all just happy to be here.

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Its kind of an immigrant family cliche at this point that a lot of times the parents who immigrate are really happy to be here, quite patriotic about their adopted country, and then its the first-generation American kids who view the U.S. through more skeptical eyes. It sounds like thats true in your family, too.

I think the reason why is because their mission was to plant roots here and to grow a family here. And by that measure, they succeeded. No matter what anybody says about them on TV, that doesnt change the fact that they have a family here. But for us, for me and my siblings and for people who were born here, thats not our goal. Were already here. So were thirsting for something more. We want acceptance. We want truth. We want people to see through the bullshit in another way. You know, we want to help people who hate us to learn who we are. So were doing this for yall, you know what I mean? We know that were not terrorists.
Republicans are peddling a story about the two decades between Sept. 11, 2001, and last months withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan. The story is that terrorists struck the United States on 9/11, that a Republican president boldly struck back, and that 20 years later, a Democratic president surrendered to the Taliban. Its a heavily doctored, self-serving account, designed to make Democrats look weak and Republicans look strong. But the real story of those 20 years is how the Republican Party changed. It used to stand for national security. Now it disregards and sabotages public safety, at the expense of hundreds of thousands of lives.

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When al-Qaida struck America on 9/11, Republicans completely reoriented our government to confront terrorism. The attack had been conceived abroad, but it had been seeded and executed in the United States. So Republicans instituted new measures to track and halt the spread of terrorism at home. They upgraded domestic surveillance and tightened screening at airports and other public places. President George W. Bush urged citizens to rise above their differences and focus on the good of the community.

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Today, in the face of a far more deadly enemy, Republicans have done the opposite. Theyve belittled the coronavirus pandemic, scorned vigilance, defended reckless individualism, and obstructed efforts to protect the public. For more than a year, they stood by as President Donald Trump helped the virus kill Americans. He collaborated with Chinas president to conceal the threat. He told Americans it was a hoax. He silenced officials who sought to warn the public. He opposed testing to track the virus. He ridiculed masks. He launched political attacks on Democratic governors who tried to save lives.

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But Trump wasnt alone. Officials in his White Housemen who are now positioning themselves to advise and direct the next generation of Republican leaderscollaborated in the deadly work of playing down the virus, hiding its spread, and discouraging the use of masks. Republican governors rushed to reopen bars, restaurants, and other indoor gathering places, triggering a second wave of carnage in the summer of 2020. And even after a horrific third wave, Republican lawmakers and state officials are standing in the way of efforts to keep Americans safe.

In recent months, Republican governors have prohibited local mask mandates and vaccine requirements. Some, led by Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida and Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas, have even barred private companies from imposing such rules. In Arizona, Gov. Doug Ducey has threatened to cut off federal funds to schools that require masks. In South Carolina, Gov. Henry McMaster has ordered his health department to block door-to-door promotion of vaccines. In Congress, Republicans have filed legislation to prohibit anyone, including private entities, from requiring employees to be vaccinated. Theyve also fomented defiance of public health measures. The top two Republican leaders in the House of Representatives, Reps. Kevin McCarthy and Steve Scalise, have told the public that mask mandates and even mask advisories are a calculated plan to establish government control. Republican senators have urged Americans to spurn masks and distrust the Food and Drug Administrations approval of vaccines.

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This campaign of obstruction and propaganda has contributed to millions of infections. In an Economist/YouGov poll taken last week, fewer than half of Republicans, compared to about 80 percent of Democrats, said they had been fully vaccinated. Thirty-five percent of Republicans, compared to 8 percent of Democrats, said they would refuse to accept a COVID shot. More than 40 percent of Republicans, compared to 4 percent of Democrats, said they hadnt worn masks at all when going out during the preceding week. Rank-and-file Republicans, egged on by Republican politicians, have become COVID vectors.

And theyre killing one another. Since the beginning of May, the rate of COVID deaths is more than 50 percent higher in red states than in blue states. When you break down the numbers by county, the gap is even worse. Death rates are nearly twice as high in red counties as in blue counties, and theres a direct correlation between COVID fatalities and support for Trump. In counties where Trump got 60 percent to 80 percent of the vote, the death rate is twice as high as in counties where he got less than 40 percent. In counties where he got more than 80 percent of the vote, the death rate is three times as high.

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This catastrophe dwarfs any terror attack. So far, COVID-19 has killed 650,000 Americans. Thats more than 200 times the death toll of 9/11. Its nearly 100 times the combined number of U.S. military casualties in Afghanistan and Iraq over the past 20 years. In August alone, the virus killed 30,000 Americans. Thats a 9/11 attack every three days.

You can argue that the extraordinary measures we took after 9/11the wars, the surveillance, the curtailments of civil libertieswere unwise or unnecessary. You could make similar arguments today against mask mandates or vaccine mandates to fight COVID. But theres no rational justification for what Republicans have done: sacrificing civil liberties and waging decades-long wars over an attack that took 3,000 lives, and then ignoringand exacerbating, in the name of civil libertiesan attack thats killing 1,000 Americans a day.

The simple truth is that Republicans dont know how to deal with this kind of enemy. It doesnt speak Arabic, Farsi, or Chinese. It doesnt invoke the name of Allah. Politicians cant rile up crowds or raise money by uniting Americans against it, as they did by railing against radical Islamic terrorism. In this respect, COVID has been a test of character. It challenged Republicans to decide whether theyre a party of national security, or just a party of grievance and animosity. That question has now been answered.
Heres a reminder that as bad as American politics feel these days, it could always be worse. You could be voting in Russia, where veteran opposition politician Boris Vishnevsky recently got a look at his competition for his seat in St. Petersburgs 50-seat Legislative Assembly and noticed something familiarthere were two other Boris Vishnevskys in the race, both of whom looked suspiciously similar to him. The 65-year-old incumbent is a member of the liberal opposition Yabloko party, which makes him an enemy of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his many allied parties, well-orchestrated to give the impression of democracy in Russia.

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The real Boris Vishnevsky says the two challengers not only changed their names, a common enough practice in Russia, to confuse voters, but that the candidates election photos had been fashioned to resemble Vishnevskys appearance.

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,     ,     . pic.twitter.com/16iV3NghoE    (@visboris) September 5, 2021

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Neither of the new Boris Vishnevskys have campaigned or had any public appearances at all, but they are on the ballot. The only difference is their patronymic namesgenerally derived from the name of a father, CNN reports. In addition to the [original]  Vishnevsky Boris Lazarevich, there is Vishnevsky Boris Gennadievich, 43, and Vishnevsky Boris Ivanovich, 59 For the last two, the electoral commission website gives in brackets their former names: Shmelev Alexey Gennadievich and Bykov Victor Ivanovich.

At least one of Vishnevskys opponents, who until recently was named Viktor Bykov, is believed to have changed his appearance considerably for the photographs, the Guardian reports. In an official photograph used on a St Petersburg government website, Bykov had a full head of hair and looked years younger than the photograph submitted to the electoral commission.

Subscribe to the Slatest newsletter A daily email update of the stories you need to read right now. We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again. Please enable javascript to use form. Email address: Send me updates about Slate special offers. By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms Sign Up Thanks for signing up! You can manage your newsletter subscriptions at any time.

Vishnevsky filed a complaint with the election commission ahead of the Sept. 17-19 vote in Russia, but Central Election Commission chief Ella Pamfilova, while calling the ruse an embarrassment and an outrage, said there was nothing she could do. According to Reuters, [t]he commission rejected a complaint by Vishnevsky demanding that his rivals give their previous names on the ballot on the basis that the three candidates could be distinguished by their different middle names.
Last week, a patient entered Rachel Lees pharmacy in an affluent San Diego neighborhood to ask about his ivermectin prescription. She had braced herself for this moment since her pharmacy started getting calls about the drugs availability.

I was like, Oh great, here it is. Heres my first one,  said Lee, who asked that her real name not be used to protect her job at a national chain pharmacy.

The prescription lacked a diagnosis code, which many pharmacists use to ensure a drug is prescribed for valid medical reasons. The prescribing doctor was licensed outside of the state, in Florida. When she called the doctors office for more information, an employee said the ivermectin was for prophylactic COVID treatment. Lee turned the patient away.

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Many pharmacists across the country are finding themselves in similarly uncomfortable situations. Demand for ivermectin, which in tablet form is used to treat parasitic worms in humans, has surged 24-fold because of the scientifically unsupported belief that it can treat, or prevent, COVID-19. Prior to the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an average of 3,600 ivermectin prescriptions per week. The number of prescriptions began to rise rapidly in early July, spurred in part by fringe doctors advocating for its use. By mid-August, the CDC reported more than 88,000 prescriptions per week.

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The FDA has not approved ivermectin for this indication, and the National Institutes of Health, World Health Organization, and even the drugs manufacturer, Merck, have all said that the scientific evidence for its use in treating or preventing COVID is insufficient. Nevertheless, some physicians are writing prescriptionsshady websites offering them for a fee aboundand celebrities like Joe Rogan and Alex Jones have promoted it. While some pharmacies fill these prescriptions, many others are having to turn away frustrated patients.

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Were put in a tough spot, said Lee. I have been very strict with it, just because at the end of the day, it is my license.

On Sept. 1, a trio of leading national health care groupsthe American Pharmacist Association, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, and the American Medical Associationissued a joint statement calling for an end to the ordering, prescribing, or dispensing ivermectin for COVID-19 prevention or treatment. The way people intend to use it is dangerous, say pharmacy experts.

Pharmacists are seeing prescriptions for varying dosages and longer periods of time than ivermectin is currently approved for use, said Anne Burns, a pharmacist and VP of practice affairs at the APhA. In oral tablet form, ivermectin is approved as a one-time treatment, and occasionally a follow-up dose is prescribed several months afterward. Were hearing of prescriptions for ivermectin for several days up to a month, and sometimes longer, said Burns. (A topical version of ivermectin also exists for certain human skin infections.) Burns also noted that the APhA recently received a report about a physician asking to fill a 30-day prescription of ivermectin for himself.

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Overdoses of ivermectin can cause symptoms ranging from nausea and vomiting to seizures, coma, and death. It may also react negatively with other medications a person is taking. There are also reports (and memes) of people using veterinary-grade ivermectin, a paste used to deworm horses, cows, and swine. Though the active ingredient is the same, it bears repeating that drugs for livestock are dangerous because their extremely high dosage is meant for large animals, and they may also contain inactive ingredients not meant for human consumption.

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Despite these risks, prescriptions for human ivermectin are being called into pharmacies.

Some come from physicians operating via dubious online groups offering telemedicine services, like the Front Line Doctors. Burns cautions people that these online options are a buyer beware market. There are telemedicine sites that may not be reputable, she said, and though guidelines for prescribing via telemedicine differ from state to state, during COVID theres a lot of relaxation for operating across state lines.

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If you are asked to fill out an online form that results in a prescription, thats a red flag, she said.

The increased demand has led to shortages of ivermectin tablets in some pharmacies, which is a problem for people who actually need it for its approved treatment. These shortages come with a grim silver lining for pharmacists. Im reluctant to call a drug shortage helpful, said Michael Ganio, a senior director at ASHP, but if a pharmacy does not have ivermectin in stock, its a black and white decision for the pharmacist not to fill it.

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Pharmacists are under no obligation to fill a prescription that they think is unsafe.

Its our responsibility as a profession to keep our patients safe, and whether the patient or prescriber agrees with that is really not a part of the equation, said Ganio. This means checking for correct dosage, looking out for potential interactions with other drugs, and refusing to give a drug when its not prescribed for a valid medical reason. Ganio said he has heard reports of physicians and patients giving pharmacists a hard time, but patients seem to be moving on to the next pharmacy to find a source rather than get into an argument.

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Some pharmacies have filled those prescriptions. Helen Lim, a pharmacist at a CVS near Los Angeles, said that at CVS, its company policy to turn away people with ivermectin prescriptions. But she noted that at large chain pharmacies, staff fill such a massive volume of prescriptions that, when it comes to ivermectin requests, sometimes it just doesnt get caught.

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Pharmacists who find themselves being asked to fill ivermectin prescriptions should decline and respond by educating patients, said Ganio. Pharmacists, who are aware of the evidence and the guidelines, should be able to talk to the patient to help them understand the evidence, why its not recommended, why it can be harmful.

At her San Diego pharmacy, Lee explained to her patient she wasnt comfortable filling his ivermectin prescription because the FDA hadnt approved it for that use. She told the employee at his doctors office the same thing. Rather than put up a fight, the employee said theyd just send the prescription to another pharmacy.

At the end of the day, said Lee, its up to the dispensing pharmacist.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Dangerous Venezuelan murderer arrested in Galicia



Spanish officers tracked the man down in La Coruna, where he was working as a delivery driver

The National Police in La Coruna (Galicia) have arrested a dangerous criminal who was on the run from Venezuelan authorities for a murder committed back in 2016.

Spanish officers were alerted by Latin American authorities that the man could be hiding in Spain and, after opening an investigation, he was located in the city of La Coruna, where he was working as a delivery driver.

The man was wanted for a violent crime carried out in 2016 in which he threatened a man on a public road, kidnapped him and then killed the victim by shooting him several times while demanding money.

National Police requested help from the Special Operation Security Group to carry out the arrest, as the Venezuelan man was classified as armed, violent, dangerous and with a tendency to flee.

Another Latin American fugitive was also detained in Galicia; a Columbian woman who was wanted for money laundering in the city of Cali Valle in 2016. She was tracked to Orense initially, but was later found in an extremely isolated rural area of La Coruna, where she was working as a cleaner/helper in someones home.

The woman was also arrested by the Spanish police force and could face up to 30 years in prison as a result of her crimes.

IMAGE: Archive
Rules for UK vehicles in Spain are changing at the end of September



British drivers in Spain will need to put new stickers on their cars from September 28

UK motorists in Spain have been caught off guard by a sudden change of regulations which will make the standard GB number plate and stickers obsolete. A change in the law for British cars in Spain will come into effect on Tuesday September 28 2021 which means they will have to display a UK sticker instead.

Until now Brits have needed to display a GB sticker clearly on the rear of their vehicles no matter what is on their licence plate, whether a Union Jack or a Euro symbol or whatever, and these rules will stay the same up until September 27.

On and after September 28 2021, Brits driving a UK car in Spain will need to display a UK sticker clearly on the rear of the vehicle no matter what is on the number plate. Anyone with a GB sticker on their car must cover or remove it.

The changes come at the same time as a raft of new regulations come into force for UK citizens in Spain as a result of Brexit, including changes in passport validity for Brits travelling to Spain

Image: Archive
Army will modernise, plans to purchase dozens of armoured vehicles

It's really the first real crucial step to building our commitment to collective defense, the chief of the general staff of the Armed Forces said.

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The Slovak army is expanding its fleet. The government approved the purchase of 152 tracked combat armoured vehicles.

The overall costs of the first phase of the project are estimated at 1.739 billion including VAT.

Production of the first vehicles should start in 2022 and finish in 2026.

The Defence Ministry proposed purchasing 131 tracked armoured vehicles (9,629,000 per vehicle), 15 command tracked armored vehicles (9,629,000 per vehicle), three tracked armored vehicles - release (7,064,000 per vehicle) and three tracked armoured vehicles - technical assistance workshop (6,484,000 per vehicle).

The ministry estimates that costs for logistical support, spare parts, trainers, workshop special equipment and courses will reach around 183,176,000.

The estimated cost of ammunition is 97,247,000 and infrastructure 12 million.

Dozens of 8x8 vehicles

Slovakia will purchase 76 8x8 combat armoured vehicles for 332.2 million.

9. Sep 2021 at 17:35 | Compiled by Spectator staff
Stefan Hamran appointed to lead Police Corps. Summer brought an abnormally high number of job ads.

Good evening. Catch up on the main news of the day in less than five minutes with the Thursday, September 9, edition of Today in Slovakia . We wish you a pleasant read.

Papal visit will bring several limitations to transport in the capital

Traffic limitations on September 12, 2021 (Source: Police)

Bratislavans and those who plan to travel to the capital during the papal visit should prepare for numerous travelling restrictions.

These will impact not only public transport in the city but also roads, highways and border crossings. The first limitation will start on Sunday, September 12, when Pope Francis' is expected to arrive at the Bratislava airport and will continue until Wednesday, September 15, when he flies back to Rome.

The operator of public transport in the capital, DPB, said that the most reliable form of travel during these days is a tram. The police have published several maps noting the time intervals roads will be affected by restrictions. They also pointed out that several border crossings with Austria, Hungary and even the Czech Republic may face limitations.

However, the times given are only approximate and may change. The police have asked people to reconsider travelling during these times and in these places unless necessary.

Slovak cabinet apologises for anti-Jewish law adopted 80 years ago

(Source: Archive of the SNP Museum in Banska Bystrica)

Slovakia marks 80 years since adopting the legislation that eliminated Jews from public life. The Eduard Heger cabinet apologised for adopting the Order on the Legal Status of Jews, also known as the Jewish Code.



The Slovak cabinet feels a moral duty to publicly express regret over the crimes committed by the ruling power of that time, especially over adopting a condemnable regulation restricting the fundamental human rights and freedoms of citizens of Jewish origin on September 9, 1941, reads the official declaration adopted on September 8, 2021.

In practice, the Jewish Code created a base for authorities to issue official decisions on various areas of the life of Jews.

It was written in a way that Jews could not defend themselves against its provisions and official decisions, historian Jan Hlavinka said, explaining that the code made it impossible for Jews to appeal official decisions in courts.

Coronavirus and vaccination news

Illustrative stock photo (Source: TASR)

478 people were newly diagnosed as Covid positive out of 34,226 PCR tests performed on Wednesday. The number of people in hospitals has increased to 182. The vaccination rate is 43.60 percent; 2,258,574 people have received the first dose of the vaccine. More stats on Covid-19 in Slovakia here.

out of 34,226 PCR tests performed on Wednesday. The number of people in hospitals has increased to 182. The vaccination rate is 43.60 percent; 2,258,574 people have received the first dose of the vaccine. More stats on Covid-19 in Slovakia here. Children who cannot learn online will learn in small groups of five in school in case of quarantine . This applies only to children who have recovered from Covid or are vaccinated. Teachers must teach these children in schools; it has not been obligatory until now. (Expres)

. This applies only to children who have recovered from Covid or are vaccinated. Teachers must teach these children in schools; it has not been obligatory until now. (Expres) The state-run health insurer Vseobecna Zdravotna Poistovna agreed with providers united in the Association of laboratories on the adjustment of prices for PCR tests. They lowered the price from 42 to 36. Medirex, Unilabs Slovakia, Synlab Slovakia and Klinicka Biochemia are among the association's members.

Photo of the day

Pictured below is the settlement of Stones of the Disappeared (Stolpersteine) in front of Emil Pasztor's house on Kupelna Street 3 in Bratislava. The stones commemorate and honour the monuments of the victims of the Holocaust and the Nazi regime.

If you like what we are doing and want to support good journalism, buy our online subscription . Thank you.

Feature story for today

Though trained as an agricultural engineer, Vladimir Makara decided to start hand sewing shoes so that the tradition of footwear made in Poprad would not die out.

For more than 15 years, he has been producing award-winning shoes worn by hikers, climbers and foresters.

In this interview, he speaks about the basis of quality footwear when going on a trip to the mountains, how even a pair of shoes made 40 years ago can be repaired, and what his shoemaking dream is.

From California to New Zealand to the Himalayas, hand-sewn Poprad shoes are worn around the world Read more

In other news

Stefan Hamran will serve as acting Police Corps President. He was appointed by Interior Minister Roman Mikulec. Hamran, a commander of the Lynx Command, has applied for the position in the past.

He was appointed by Interior Minister Roman Mikulec. Hamran, a commander of the Lynx Command, has applied for the position in the past. The extraordinary parliamentary session at which the opposition wanted to remove Roman Mikulec (OLaNO) from the post of Interior Minister did not take place . Only 53 MPs presented themselves in the parliament. Participation of an absolute majority (at least 76) was required. MPs will have another attempt to open a meeting on Friday, September 10 at 9:00.

. Only 53 MPs presented themselves in the parliament. Participation of an absolute majority (at least 76) was required. MPs will have another attempt to open a meeting on Friday, September 10 at 9:00. The Constitutional Court will deal with the opposition's initiative against the coalition amendment to the Labour Code , but it has not suspended its effectiveness. Critics led by the Smer opposition party attacked the possibility of giving notice to an employee from the age of 65 and a stop sign for collective agreements valid throughout the industry.

with the opposition's initiative against the coalition amendment to , but it has not suspended its effectiveness. Critics led by the Smer opposition party attacked the possibility of giving notice to an employee from the age of 65 and a stop sign for collective agreements valid throughout the industry. Profesia.sk recorded an abnormally high number of job advertisements in the summer. There were more than 55,000 of them in July and August, which is 10,000 more than in the same period of 2018, the strongest year, so far. There are usually fewer job offers in the summer.

in the summer. There were more than 55,000 of them in July and August, which is 10,000 more than in the same period of 2018, the strongest year, so far. There are usually fewer job offers in the summer. The Wolt delivery service will open a brick-and-mortar shop in the centre of Bratislava , followed by other cities. The store will be used to deliver food and goods from drugstores over short distances.

, followed by other cities. The store will be used to deliver food and goods from drugstores over short distances. Michal Sipos, chair of the OLaNO caucus, said that OLaNO will accept the remaining members of the Za Ludi caucus if they are interested in joining .

. Several inspirational projects that have flourished during the pandemic were recognised with Via Bona Slovakia 2020 awards, granted by the Pontis Foundation to responsible and fair businesses.

Do not miss on Spectator.sk today

Army will modernise, plans to purchase dozens of armoured vehicles Read more

Ultraconservative MP becomes a new proxy for the protection of religion Read more

Local winemakers keep a centuries-old tradition alive Read more

If you have suggestions on how this news overview can be improved, you can reach us at editorial@spectator.sk.

9. Sep 2021 at 18:01 | Nina Hrabovska Francelova
https://sputniknews.com/20210908/psu-professor-resigns-claims-woke-ideology-cancel-culture-deprive-students-of-thinking-abilities-1088898328.html

PSU Professor Resigns, Says Woke Ideology, Cancel Culture Deprive Students of Thinking Abilities

PSU Professor Resigns, Says Woke Ideology, Cancel Culture Deprive Students of Thinking Abilities

PSU Professor Resigns, Saying Woke Ideology, Cancel Culture Deprive Students of Thinking Abilities

2021-09-08T23:10+0000

2021-09-08T23:10+0000

2021-09-09T01:27+0000

resignation

professor

ideology

portland state university

woke

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Professor Peter Boghossian resigned after the university did not accept what was described as his attempts to teach students to think critically. In a letter released on Wednesday, Boghossian said that the university has made this kind of intellectual exploration impossible and students refuse to engage with different points of view.The teacher suggested that that the university had transformed a bastion of free inquiry into a Social Justice factory whose only inputs were race, gender, and victimhood and whose only outputs were grievance and division.The professor soon realized the systemic nature of values that sound wonderful, like diversity, equity, and inclusion, but might actually be just the opposite. Boghossian wrote that those who want to question the new culture, and are determined to hear evidence to justify new institutional policies, were accused of microaggressions.According to the professor, he was retaliated against for challenging approved narratives after a former student initiated a Title IX investigation. The professor claimed his students were asked by investigators if they knew anything about him beating his wife and children.The probe later proved the accusations were baseless, but this horrifying accusation soon became a widespread rumor.To draw attention to the problem of ideological illiberalism and to demonstrate that morally fashionable papers  no matter how absurd  could be published, he wrote absurdist articles on The Conceptual Penis as a Social Construct and rape among dogs.Both were approved by editorial boards, and after the professor revealed they were a hoax designed to shed light on the flaws of the peer-review and academic publishing systems, he was blasted for what was called an experiment on human subjects. Soon after, Boghossian saw swastikas drawn on two bathrooms near the philosophy department and his office door, in one instance accompanied by bags of feces.The offensive atmosphere, according to Boghossian, continued, as some have triggered the fire alarm and pulled out the speaker during some of his speeches. Insults and threats have followed in recent years and no one was punished or disciplined, the professor said.Boghossian stated that the university has failed students and the public and is not a place for people who intend to think freely and explore ideas.Boghossian's case is not the first in which teachers and professors come under pressure for what is described by some as "non-woke" opinions. Numerous resignations amid a refusal to support critical race theory and other so-called woke ideas are surrounded by fierce dispute.Earlier, North Korean escapee Yeonmi Park, who graduated from Columbia University, noted that anti-Western sentiment, collective guilt and suffocating political correctness in American Ivy League universities made her think that even her motherland is not this nuts.

C Han The US is becoming a totalitarian country - thinking and acting differently thant the imposed norm is reported immediately in the social media and the individual being himself is automatically being boohed by the community sometimes even trialed and punished. The government and the deep state did things very well imposing their values. The apple is soon ripe to go to war and literally impose its will over the world. 2

Nevi'im This is so true, that "WOKE" politics now dominate thinking and suppress cultural and religious freedom in Politics, Universities, Main Stream Media and the workplace like a crippling virus. 1

2

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resignation, professor, ideology, portland state university, woke
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https://sputniknews.com/20210909/biden-to-reveal-six-point-plan-to-curb-covid-19-as-cases-on-the-rise-1088923922.html

Biden to Reveal Six-Point Plan to Curb COVID-19 as Cases On the Rise

Biden to Reveal Six-Point Plan to Curb COVID-19 as Cases On the Rise

Biden to Reveal Six-Point Plan to Curb COVID-19 as Cases On the Rise

2021-09-09T17:22+0000

2021-09-09T17:22+0000

2021-09-09T17:22+0000

joe biden

us

vaccination

covid-19

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US President Joe Biden will be presenting a six-point plan to fight a surge of the Delta strain of the virus on Thursday, 9 September, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki has said. One of the points will feature mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for all federal workers, Reuters reported, citing an anonymous source.Among the other measures that will be announced on 9 September are an increase in testing, "keeping schools safely open", and changes to the way COVID-19 patients are treated. The White House spokeswoman said that despite the initial success, the fight against the pandemic is not over.In August this year, Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin the announced mandatory vaccination of all members of the Department of Defence in order to have "healthy and ready [armed] forces" amid the conditions of the ongoing pandemic. The plan involves "ambitious timelines for implementation", and while no specific deadline was set, media reports have suggested that Austin expected the vaccination of the 800,000 servicemen who have not had jabs to be complete within a matter of weeks, not months.Fight for Vaccination ContinuesThe revealed future announcement will reportedly put an end to the current practice, where federal workers could avoid getting anti-COVID jabs if they didn't want to or could not be vaccinated. They used to have the option of undergoing regular testing instead.The reported move to make vaccinations mandatory for some groups of people comes as the Biden administration struggles to promote jabs amid the raging Delta variant and the slowing vaccination rate. According to 8 September data from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), some 177 million, or 53.3%, Americans were fully vaccinated, while 62.7% had received only one jab.These numbers fall short of even the most optimistic estimates of how many people should get the shots to achieve herd immunity. In addition, some states and counties in the US show levels of vaccination significantly lower than the average across the country, making these communities more prone to witnessing hospitalisations due to COVID-19-related complications.At the same time, the US started in the middle of August to administer so-called "booster shots" third injections of the vaccine to improve the immune response in people who might need it. Some 1.5 million US residents have already used this opportunity.

https://sputniknews.com/20210813/us-fda-allows-emergency-use-of-3rd-dose-of-covid-19-vaccines-for-immunocompromised-people-1083593698.html

Volkan Kalender I'm pretty sure that the Taliban b.tch will destroy covid and all it's variants soon. 7

feketehollo robert malone the inventor of the rna vaccine technology stated many times that a mass vaccination with a leaky vaccine (i.e. not 100% effective) necessarily leads to the surviving virus mutating and the emergence of vaccine resistant strains. This is only obvious to people who can think. 6

9

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Tim Korso https://cdn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0a/02/1080648312_311:168:1773:1631_100x100_80_0_0_5eb98a42f89fd860368dcd2ae2d9e403.jpg

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joe biden, us, vaccination, covid-19
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/blinken-says-delay-in-nuclear-talks-with-iran-may-not-reproduce-benefits-of-jcpoa-revival-1088901264.html

Blinken Says Delay in Nuclear Talks With Iran May Not Reproduce Benefits of JCPOA Revival

Blinken Says Delay in Nuclear Talks With Iran May Not Reproduce Benefits of JCPOA Revival

Blinken Says Delay in Nuclear Talks With Iran May Not Reproduce Benefits of JCPOA Revival

2021-09-09T01:33+0000

2021-09-09T01:33+0000

2021-09-09T01:33+0000

heiko maas

antony blinken

joint comprehensive plan of action (jcpoa)

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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Iran on Wednesday that there is little time left to rearrange the nuclear agreement, urging Tehran to rush JCPOA negotiations that ended earlier in June with no additional date assigned.Maas also noted that a delay of two or three months suggested by Iran is a time frame that is much too long for us.Responding earlier to pressure, Iran noted that talks will not succeed if they continue under duress."The Trump administration withdrew from the agreement in May 2018, immediately reimposing a number of strict economic sanctions, despite IAEA reports noting that Iran had been complying with its nuclear obligations. Over the next year, Iran has urged JCPOA members to facilitate the lifting of restrictions as the country has suffered economic difficulties.Before the assassination of Iranian nuclear physicist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh in late 2020, Tehran had not allowed any significant violations of the agreement. Soon after the killing, however, Iran increased the degree of uranium enrichment, installed more advanced centrifuges and produced uranium metal.In February 2021, the Islamic republic threatened to halt IAEA inspections under the JCPOA, if sanctions were not removed. On February 21, the parties entered into a three-month agreement to continue some of the checks. In May, these agreements were extended for another month, but since 22 May, Iran has denied the IAEA access to data collected by cameras inside nuclear facilities, and has threatened to delete videos of the past three months.According to the latest IAEA report, Iran has recently quadrupled its reserves of highly enriched uranium, having at its disposal 10 kilograms of highly enriched, at up to 60 percent, uranium, while at the time of the previous IAEA assessment in May this year it was reportedly about 2.4 kilograms. The amount of 20-percent enriched uranium also increased, from 62.8 to 84.3 kilograms. IAEA agents also raised concerns over Tehrans ban on certain inspections.Hopes that the agreement would be restored rose after the new US administration came into office and indirect negotiations started in Vienna in April. Iran announced that its nuclear violations would be quickly reversed when sanctions are lifted.The sides have not achieved any substantial success, as Washington is demanding that Iran immediately comply with JCPOA provisions, while Tehran claims it is the US that must make the first concession, as it was first to leave the nuclear agreement. Negotiations halted after a new Iranian president was elected in June.

TruePatriot Is it something in the air or the water in the US Deep State Department? Because Little Tony B. isn't making a bit of sense on this one. It's all a bad word salad. Besides, the US is NOT involved in any of the discussions with Iran. It's the other parties. So, STFU Tony, you've already made an arse out of yourself multiple times over. 7

Mike Literous "when you got to shoot ...Shoot, Don't talk " 5

11

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heiko maas, antony blinken, joint comprehensive plan of action (jcpoa)
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/brics-india-pledges-to-boost-trade-tech-ties-with-china-amid-ladakh-border-standoff-1088911089.html

BRICS: India Pledges to Boost Trade, Tech Ties With China Amid Ladakh Border Standoff

BRICS: India Pledges to Boost Trade, Tech Ties With China Amid Ladakh Border Standoff

Despite boycott calls against Chinese products in the wake of the deadly Ladakh border standoff and a set of policy measures aimed at reducing New Delhi's... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T11:15+0000

2021-09-09T11:15+0000

2021-09-09T11:15+0000

ladakh region

world

narendra modi

india

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The BRICS nations have finalised the "Mutual Customs Assistance Agreement" in a bid to boost trade among the five member countriesBrazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africaahead of the annual summit on Friday, Indian officials have told Sputnik.India is the current chair of BRICS, which has a share of 16 percent in the global trade. The current chair of the bloc, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2016 called for increasing intra-BRICS trade.A virtual meeting of BRICS trade ministers on 3 September, chaired by Indias federal Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, also adopted the Implementation Roadmap on Trade and Investment, as per officials.The intra-BRICS measures under Indias leadership are being taken against the backdrop of the ongoing border standoff between the Indian Army and the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) in the eastern Ladakh region along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) border. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has told his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi that it cant be business as usual with China until the standoff is resolved.The two foreign ministers have held two face-to-face meetings since the border standoff began in May last yearthe first one in Moscow on the sidelines of a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting in September last year and then again in Dushanbe in July this year. India has repeatedly accused China of altering the status quo by encroaching upon border territories previously patrolled by India. However, China has denied the accusations on several occasions.Addressing a security conference in January this year, the Indian top diplomat said that the death of 20 Indian soldiers in a clash with PLA troopers in Ladakhs Galwan Valley region has profoundly disturbed trust between the two nations. Four Chinese troops also died during the clash, the deadliest episode between the two nuclear-armed neighbours in over four decades.The Chinese Foreign Ministry has accused India of instigating the standoff and trying to change the status quo by ramping up its border infrastructure. Wang has also called upon India to place the border dispute at an appropriate level in the overall bilateral ties.Largely ignoring Beijings calls until now, India has been accelerating its efforts to de-couple its economy from Chinas in the wake of the border dispute, which remains unresolved to date, even after nearly a dozen rounds of meetings between military commanders of both nations.Since the border standoff began, the Indian government has banned over 200 Chinese apps on national security grounds. In April last year, New Delhi also revised its Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) rules to make it mandatory for inflows from China to go through a government screening committee before they could be approved.However, now, under the BRICS framework, India is not only calling for boosting economic activity among member states, but also for enhancing cooperation in space and digital technologies.Indian officials say that the leaderships of BRICS nations will accelerate cooperation in remote-sensing technologies for the peaceful use of outer space. The Indian government has also floated the idea of a "BRICS Digital Public Goods Platform" to share open source technologies among the member states.India Must Strike a Balance, Says ExpertSeshadri Vasan, the director of Indian think tank the Chennai Centre for Chinese Studies, tells Sputnik that New Delhi, as the current chair of BRICS, cant shy away from its responsibility of effectively leading the multilateral grouping.The think-tanker also feels that India could consider using the BRICS platform to extract concessions from Beijing on issues of concern to New Delhi. India has expressed serious concerns on the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan and called upon the Islamist outfit to not allow Afghan soil to be used by anti-India terror outfits. On the other hand, Beijing has emerged as a crucial partner for the Taliban.As far as cooperation in satellite technology is concerned, Vasan notes Indias illustrious track record in the area and says that Delhi cant afford to cede ground to Beijing.

https://sputniknews.com/20210628/india-redirects-50000-troops-to-chinese-border-inaugurates-new-infrastructure-projects-in-ladakh-1083256057.html

https://sputniknews.com/20200902/india-bans-118-more-chinese-apps-over-security-concerns-amid-border-tensions-1080348458.html

https://sputniknews.com/20210907/lack-of-critical-technology-restricts-indias-anti-satellite-capabilities-admits-iaf-vice-chief-1088856980.html

ladakh region

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Dhairya Maheshwari

Dhairya Maheshwari

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Dhairya Maheshwari

ladakh region, world, narendra modi, india
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/california-governor-keeps-mum-as-his-recall-race-opponent-larry-elder-suffers-racist-egg-attack-1088926631.html

California Governor Keeps Mum as His Recall Race Opponent Larry Elder Suffers 'Racist' Egg Attack

California Governor Keeps Mum as His Recall Race Opponent Larry Elder Suffers 'Racist' Egg Attack

California Governor Keeps Mum as His Recall Race Opponent Larry Elder Suffers 'Racist' Egg Attack

2021-09-09T19:29+0000

2021-09-09T19:29+0000

2021-09-09T19:29+0000

us

california

recall

gavin newsom

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California Governor Gavin Newsom, who is facing a recall vote in five days, has remained silent amid the news that one of his main opponents in the electoral race, African-American KABC radio host Larry Elder, was attacked on a street in Venice Beach, Los Angeles. Newsom's campaign continued to post ads on his social media and made no comment of the incident.The incident happened as Elder arrived at a homeless encampment in Venice Beach, as a part of his so-called Recall Express bus tour. Homelessness and a lack of affordable housing are two issues in which Elder is dissatisfied with Newsom's policies in California, according to polls.At the homeless encampment, an unidentified white woman with pink hair wearing a gorilla mask unsuccessfully tried to hit Elder in the head with an egg, before engaging in a brief scuffle with a member of the candidate's security detail as they responded to the attack.Elder later alleged that his security detail was shot at "with a pellet gun". The radio host, currently polling the highest among Newsom's contenders, said he would continue his campaign despite what he characterized as efforts by an "intolerant left" to stop him.The attack against Elder was branded "racist" by conservative netizens, with some Republican politicians calling out Democrats and the media over failing to raise concerns over the incident. Texas House Republican Dan Crenshaw, alleged that if Elder had been a Democrat, the Democrats would not be silent about the attempted egging.With only five days left before the day of the recall election, Californians will be voting on two primary issues: whether to keep Democrat Newsom as their governor and, if not, who will replace him for the remainder of his term. The Democrat faced the recall after an online petition launched in 2020 managed to amass the required 2 million valid signatures to start the procedure. Many Democrats back Newsom in his effort to hold the post, claiming that the recall is a GOP plan to take over California.

https://sputniknews.com/20210902/george-soros-pours-1000000-into-campaign-to-save-california-governor-newsom-from-recall-1083781703.html

netman This is nothing but a conspiracy by RetardiQAns to take over California Governship...But they will fail miserably...! 3

PaleRider Newscum! 1

2

california

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us, california, recall, gavin newsom
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/denmark-secretly-pays-uk-off-to-receive-its-afghan-interpreters-1088905084.html

Denmark Secretly Pays UK Off to Receive Its Afghan Interpreters

Denmark Secretly Pays UK Off to Receive Its Afghan Interpreters

The scheme of outsourcing legal and humanitarian responsibility for interpreters who helped Denmark during the country's decades-long involvement in... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T07:29+0000

2021-09-09T07:29+0000

2021-09-09T07:51+0000

denmark

news

europe

middle east

afghanistan

afghanistan war

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A total of 23 Afghan interpreters who helped Denmark during the US-led mission in Afghanistan have been granted residence in the UK after Copenhagen paid, the newspaper Berlingske reported after obtaining confirmation from the Danish Defence Ministry.The amount paid has not been revealed but according to Berlingske, it has been calculated according to what it cost the British to assess the 23 interpreters' documents and evacuate them, and what it would cost the UK to integrate them, including social benefits for five years.Although the interpreters were assisting Denmark in Afghanistan, they were formally employed by the UK. According to Berlingske, however, they wore Danish uniform, and some had their salaries paid in cash by Danish officials.The list includes 12 interpreters who had first been refused an entry visa to Denmark and 11 interpreters who wished to come to the UK.A total of 195 interpreters assisted the Danish forces during the war in Afghanistan. Until June this year, merely five Afghan interpreters had been granted asylum in Denmark out of 139 applications.The scheme of outsourcing humanitarian responsibility has caused surprise.We have in an incredible way disgraced ourselves in the sight of our allies, Sine Plambech, senior researcher at the Danish Institute for International Studies (DIIS) mused. Put simply, we have paid ourselves off to avoid giving our local interpreters in Afghanistan asylum, she said.Eva Flyvholm, defence spokesperson for the Red-Green Alliance and member of the Foreign Policy Board, was also critical of the scheme.According to a 2013 agreement, the interpreters were given the opportunity to request Danish support, provided that they could prove that they were specifically threatened or in danger because of their work for Denmark. A new agreement was reached on 11 August this year, when the Taliban* were about to re-claim power in Afghanistan. However, the most recent agreement only covered locally employed Afghans from within the past two years.Since the fall of Afghanistan's capital, Kabul, on 15 August, Denmark has evacuated around 1,000 people from the war-torn country, including more than 600 local staff and their families.The Danish engagement in Afghanistan dates back to 2001, with the first Danish soldiers deployed in 2002, peaking at 760 men. Overall, the Danish mission has cost millions of kronor, suffering 43 casualties and more than 210 injuries.* The Taliban is a terrorist organisation banned in Russia and other countries.

https://sputniknews.com/20210826/too-optimistic-danish-intelligence-admits-it-didnt-foresee-kabul-falling-to-taliban-in-2021-1083715435.html

See you in the ice lifeless evil humanoids being brought into the lush lands of the living. These traitors and thieves will be punished. All of you only have life because you steal it from the tree of life. Soon YOU also won't have life. a guy calling himself a Templar said to me, "You will be alone in a world of robots." Guess the robots would be the undead Pohjolan horde of white hair wraiths/wights/spectres/Vampyres/lichs/"white walkers"/zombies. That will be true slavery. You all stole and betrayed, so too bad for you. 10

mandrake So the fifth columns afghans are something that can be traded. Pay, say Moldova a reasonable amount per head and they can take the crop of fifth columns from afghanistan. 2

2

denmark

afghanistan

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Igor Kuznetsov

Igor Kuznetsov

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Igor Kuznetsov

denmark, news, europe, middle east, afghanistan, afghanistan war
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/from-60s-to-40s-bidens-ratings-plummet-in-battleground-states-following-crisis-riddled-summer-1088921075.html

From 60s to 40s: Biden's Ratings Plummet in Battleground States Following Crisis-Riddled Summer

From 60s to 40s: Biden's Ratings Plummet in Battleground States Following Crisis-Riddled Summer

Biden's Ratings Plummet in Battleground States Following Crisis-Riddled Summer

2021-09-09T15:25+0000

2021-09-09T15:25+0000

2021-09-09T15:25+0000

joe biden

us

ratings

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Joe Biden's ratings have fallen following three months of troubles this summer, but even more so in six battleground states, a Civiqs survey has shown. According to its data, the Democrat had 10%+ gaps in his approval and disapproval ratings in three states where he won by narrow margins  Arizona, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, and three where he narrowly lost to Trump  Florida, North Carolina, and Texas.The largest gap between those who approved of Biden's performance so far and those who did not was in Texas. Some 59% of respondents disapproved of the POTUS' actions, while only 33% approved. Back in 2020, Trump won the state by a 5% margin. In two other swing states, the GOP candidate prevailed by even smaller margins last year.In Florida and North Carolina, Biden received similar support levels of 40%, versus 53% of respondents who disapproved of his performance, according to the Civiqs survey. That makes equates to a 13% gap, versus the 26% gap in Texas.Georgia, which yielded 16 electors to Biden last year after a razor-thin election victory, showed the second-worst result for the Democrat's ratings. Only 38% of respondents there approved of POTUS' actions, while 53% disapproved. Pennsylvania and Arizona showed the smallest gap between the approval and disapproval ratings of the president not in his favour, but which still reached 10%.Biden's approval ratings crossed the 50% line in only 13 out of the US' 50 states, reflecting his overall rating, which has plummeted to around 43%, according to several surveys carried out by NPR, PBS NewsHour, and Marist. One poll even suggested that right now, Biden would lose a popular vote to former President Donald Trump.Tough Summer of 2021Biden started his first term with a rating of around 60%, but it later dropped to 53%, and then deep into the 40s. The last drop happened over the three summer months, the surveys show. During this period, the Democrat's administration faced a number of crises, such as the spreading Delta variant of COVID-19, mass destruction in several states by Hurricane Ida, and the chaotic pull-out of troops and civilians from Afghanistan amid the Taliban takeover of the country. Despite the next presidential election being years away, giving Joe Biden's ratings time to rebound, some Democrats have already grown concerned that this might still cost the party its slim bicameral majority in Congress after the 2022 midterm election.The Democratic Party's pollsters and strategists believe that the US withdrawal from Afghanistan is having the biggest impact on the president's ratings. Biden was lambasted by his critics for a number of mishaps that happened in connection with the US withdrawal from Afghanistan.Among them are the failure to extract all Americans from the country and to duly prepare for and execute the evacuation of Afghans who assisted NATO forces and who now fear Taliban* retribution. The insurgent group's rapid takeover of the entire country also did not help Biden's popularity, nor did the deadly Kabul Airport bombing by Daesh-K*, which killed 13 American servicemen amid evacuation efforts.The troubled Afghanistan pullout also coincided with the landfall of Hurricane Ida, which was estimated to have been the strongest since Katrina in 2005. The natural disaster left millions across several states without power, with fuel shortages exacerbating the problem. The weakened hurricane also flooded New York, leaving dozens of people dead as a result.In addition to all this, the US witnessed a rapid rise in daily new COVID-19 cases in August amid the raging Delta variant and continuing disputes over mask mandates at schools. At the same time, the vaccination drive has slowed down in the US, with the Biden administration struggling to motivate people to get the jabs in an effort to reduce the spread of the more contagious Delta strain.*The Taliban and Daesh-K (also known as ISIS-K) are terrorist organisations banned in Russia and many other countries

https://sputniknews.com/20210907/some-416000-people-remain-without-power-in-us-state-of-louisiana-after-hurricane-ida-1088861726.html

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joe biden, us, ratings
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/it-will-blow-over-prince-andrew-convinced-that-hell-brush-off-rape-allegations-report-says-1088905985.html

Prince Andrew 'Convinced' Hell Brush Off Rape Allegations

Prince Andrew 'Convinced' Hell Brush Off Rape Allegations

The second son of Queen Elizabeth II, said to be her favorite, has kept a low profile since the Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal broke out in August 2019. The Duke... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T08:03+0000

2021-09-09T08:03+0000

2021-09-09T12:36+0000

ghislaine maxwell

prince andrew

jeffrey epstein

rape

sex abuse

uk

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Prince Andrew is "utterly convinced" that he will be able to brush off the rape allegations against him and return to public life next year, the Daily Mirror reported citing insiders. According to them, the 61-year-old has told his closest confidants that the scandal over the recent civil lawsuit against him will blow over.The sources told the newspaper that the royal has an "incredibly bullish attitude" about the issue and believes he will be able to save his reputation.Another source told the outlet that the royals "buoyant" mood and self-assurance is detrimental both for him and the Royal Family.In August it was reported that the Duke of York is hiding in Royal Lodge as he and his team try to prevent lawyers from serving him with a lawsuit. According to the Sun, the royals security guards have stopped lawyers "multiple times".What Are the Allegations?For years Virginia Giuffre has accused Prince Andrew of having sexually assaulted her. She claimed she was trafficked to London by US financier Jeffrey Epstein and his alleged accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell, and she was forced to have sex with the royal on three occasions, including when she was just 17-years old. The media didnt pay attention to the allegations until Jeffrey Epstein was arrested on charges of running a sex-trafficking ring of minors in July of 2019.How Has the Duke Responded to The Accusations?Prince Andrew was among numerous celebrities and high-profile figures to have rubbed shoulders with Epstein. In the wake of the scandal the royal gave an interview to the BBC where he tried to explain his ties with the disgraced financier as well as answer the allegations against him.He categorically denied the accusations, claiming he had an alibi. The royal said he had no recollection of meeting Giuffre, despite there being at least one photo showing the prince together with Giuffre and Epstein's ex-girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell.Prince Andrew admitted that he flew on Epsteins private plane, visited his numerous mansions as well as his island in the Caribbean, where the financier allegedly abused and raped his victims, but noted that he didnt notice any inappropriate behaviour.Latest DevelopmentsThe Duke of York said he is willing to help US prosecutors working on the Epstein case. However, investigators claim that he has provided zero cooperation since the scandal broke. On 9 August, Virginia Giuffre filed a civil lawsuit in New York. She is seeking "accountability" from the royal and is demanding compensation for physical and mental damage. Giuffres lawyer David Boies accused Prince Andrew of "stonewalling" the case.

pussymuncher Don't know why the US are bitching....what about that American spy bitch that killed 19 year old Harry Dunne then fled the UK and refuses to come back for the trial, that's worse then some royal scumbag that stuck his penis in a willing prostitute,R.I.P Harry Dunne.....fuuuuck off US! 9

pussymuncher They are lowering it to 12 to accommodate the Islamic minority so the child bride thing can be legal. 7

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ghislaine maxwell, prince andrew, jeffrey epstein, rape, sex abuse, uk
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/jeffrey-donaldson-says-dup-will-block-port-checks-or-quit-in-protest-at-northern-ireland-protocol-1088909970.html

Jeffrey Donaldson Says DUP Will Block Port Checks or Quit in Protest at Northern Ireland Protocol

Jeffrey Donaldson Says DUP Will Block Port Checks or Quit in Protest at Northern Ireland Protocol

Arlene Foster stepped down as the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party earlier this year. Her successor Edwin Poots was ousted after 21 days in the job and... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T09:13+0000

2021-09-09T09:13+0000

2021-09-09T09:28+0000

ireland

brexit

northern ireland's democratic unionist party (dup)

northern ireland protocol

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The leader of the Democrat Unionist Party, Jefrey Donaldson, has said he is withdrawing immediately from North-South bodies which were set up after the Good Friday Agreement.Donaldson also said he would "seek to block additional checks at ports" and would withdraw from power-sharing at Stormont if that was unsuccessful.The DUP is furious at the Northern Ireland Protocol, which installs new checks on trade between Ulster and the British mainland, effectively creating a new border in the Irish Sea.He added: The so-called consent principle has been reduced to the final transfer of sovereignty and provides no protection against any creeping erosion of Northern Irelands status as part of the United Kingdom. This was not the basis on which the Belfast Agreement, and subsequent agreements, were agreed, nor was it the basis on which it was sold to the people of Northern Ireland.Donaldson said he welcomed the British government extending the grace period earlier this week but added: "Long term solutions are required and political stability secured."The speech was delivered as European Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic arrived in Belfast for a two-day visit to Northern Ireland during which he will meet political and business leaders.Northern Ireland was created 100 years ago, during the Irish War of Independence, to keep the Protestant unionist majority inside the UK. The IRA fought a long terrorist campaign in a bid to unite Ireland but the 1998 Good Friday Agreement ended that conflict and introduced power-sharing. Currently the DUP and Sinn Fein share power at Stormont.

Belfast Antagonist This is a pitch for their recent lost support within their traditional heartland. If they fail to rally their voters Sinn fein will be the largest party and will take the first minister position. So there is a plea to their base and the added attempt at voter supression. Everyone has been removed from the voting register and you now have to reaaply to be put back on with proof of who you are but more importantly where you are living this will heavily go against the nationalist voter base as many survive through the black economy and certain addresses will financially penalise them and their family 0

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ireland, brexit, northern ireland's democratic unionist party (dup), northern ireland protocol
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/jewish-worshippers-allegedly-flouted-melbournes-lockdown-by-posing-as-alcoholics-anonymous-1088905696.html

Jewish Worshippers Allegedly Flouted Melbourne's Lockdown by Posing as Alcoholics Anonymous

Jewish Worshippers Allegedly Flouted Melbourne's Lockdown by Posing as Alcoholics Anonymous

Melbourne Police issued more than 100 fines after a series of Rosh Hashanah services were held in breach of COVID-19 public restrictions on 7 September. 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T07:12+0000

2021-09-09T07:12+0000

2021-09-09T07:12+0000

asia

news

world

australia

lockdown

orthodox jews

covid-19

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Jewish Worshippers gathered to celebrate the Jewish New Year in Melbourne, Australia, on Tuesday breaching local COVID-19 restrictions. Local MP David Southwick claims they have been posing as members of an Alcoholics Anonymous mental health group for months, before police cracked down on the group. Around 30 people gathered for a celebration at the orthodox Adas Israel Synagogue in the south east of Melbourne on 7 September. When Police arrived at the site, they guarded every exit to catch the worshippers as they left, but some confronted the law enforcement agents, and others escaped over the roof. Six worshippers were reportedly fined $5,452 for breaching lockdown. Southwick dubbed those worshippers "untouchable for months" as they were pretending to be a mental health group. Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison earlier urged Jewish worshippers to follow lockdown regulations during the new year celebrations, which have just passed, and services for Yom Kippur (or the Day of Atonement), which falls next week and is considered the most important religious festival in the Jewish calendar.Another illegal prayer group which had gathered for the Jewish New Year was also shut down by police from an apartment above the Ripponlea IGA supermarket, not far away from Adas Israel Synagogue. Once exposed, worshippers and their supporters also confronted police and reportedly abused law enforcement and accused media and health authorities of anti-Semitism.

joanne1 arrest them,not becouse they are jews the police can let them walk free.Jews are not above the rest of the world,they are nothing more or less then the rest of the world. and they are for sure not the choosen ones what they think they are. 7

AngelicPsalms What Sputnik refers to as the Jewish Calendar has the wrong festival days marked for 2021 as they counted the first month while it was still last year. Years begin at the spring equinox, so the 1st month of the year was at the new moon of April. Use this proper standard to find the right months and days for the other festivals. Its the 6th month now and not the new year, Rosh Hashana wasn't last week, and Yom Kippur is not next week. 7

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asia, news, world, australia, lockdown, orthodox jews, covid-19
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/prison-break-as-israel-continues-manhunt-for-6-palestinian-fugitives-heres-how-they-escaped-1088906890.html

Prison Break: As Israel Continues Manhunt for 6 Palestinian Fugitives, Here's How They Escaped

Prison Break: As Israel Continues Manhunt for 6 Palestinian Fugitives, Here's How They Escaped

Dozens of checkpoints are still operating across Israel as police chase after six Palestinian prisoners who escaped on Monday night. Israel doesn't know where... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T10:06+0000

2021-09-09T10:06+0000

2021-09-09T10:06+0000

middle east

israel

prison

prison break

palestinians

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Israel is continuing its search for six Palestinian prisoners, all of whom have been involved in terror activity, who escaped from Gilboa prison on Monday. Police have set up dozens of checkpoints across the country. A thousand police officers are involved in the pursuit for the terrorists. The IDF has also joined police and apart from deciding to extend the closure on the West Bank's crossings with Israel, it has also announced that it would boost the number of forces dedicated to the mission. Heres a Breakdown of What Happened: 6 September: the Escape 1:20: The six prisoners enter a toilet and remove one of the floor tiles. One after another, they enter the hole that was covered by that tile, and start crawling for 21 to 25 metres until they reach the exit, located only a few metres away from a watch tower. 1:49: The police receive a phone call from a cab driver who was travelling on Route 71 between Afula and Beit Shean in northern Israel. He tells the police that he saw three men running next to the Gilboa prison, holding something in their hands. 1:58: The police send a patrol car, with officers talking to an eyewitness at the local gas station who confirms that he saw a suspect. 2:14: The Beit Shean police alert the prison authorities of the reports they gathered. 3:19: Israel's prison authority announces that three Palestinian prisoners have gone missing. Half an hour later, it corrects itself, saying that six managed to escape. 08:05: Hamas announces that it welcomes the "brave" operation carried out by the prisoners. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a radical organisation to which five out of the six belong, also hails it as a "heroic act". 12:15: Israel's security apparatus believes that after the prison escape, the six ran some three kilometres. Then the group split into two. One of them probably crossed over into Jordan. The second one most likely headed to Jenin, controlled by the Palestinian Authority. One of the groups used a car that took them to an unidentified location. 15:21: The police check whether the wardens at the Gilboa prison assisted the six fugitives. 15:40: Prime Minister Naftali Bennett holds an emergency meeting with top security personnel. 19:00: The police check whether a female warden who was placed in the watch tower during the night of the escape fell asleep during her shift. The suspicions were later confirmed. 7 September: Search Unfolds 11:29: The police set up 89 checkpoints across Israel. The IDF also throws its forces into the operation. 17:00: As the IDF conducts searches in the West Bank, thousands of Palestinians take to the streets at multiple locations across the area to express solidarity with the prisoners. 17:34: According to Palestinian sources, the IDF detained three young people from the village of Naoura that's located 10 kilometres away from the prison. They are suspected of assisting the six prisoners. 17:45: About 170 prisoners belonging to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad are transferred from the Gilboa prison to other facilities across the country. The move is seen by the Palestinian prisoners as a deterioration of their conditions. In response, the factions in Gaza say they will escalate tensions with Israel if it doesn't improve the conditions of the prisoners. 20:00: So far, 14 wardens have testified in the case. All of them were present during the shift when the six escaped. Many others are expected to give their testimonies in the coming days. 8 September: Still No Clue09:00: Relatives of the six prisoners are arrested. 13:00: The leadership of the Islamic Jihad prisoners who are currently incarcerated announces a hunger strike the following week in response to the measures taken by the Israelis. 14:00: The IDF steps up its assistance to the police: 14 infantry companies and special units participate in the search. 17:00: Palestinian prisoners express their solidarity with the six escapees. Many of them set cells on fire at the Ktziot and Ramon prisons. The police are now preparing itself for more disturbances. The jailbreak has already been branded as one of the worst in the history of Israel. Experts estimate that many will be fired because of this failure, but as it stands now, Israel doesn't have a clue where the six Palestinians are.

https://sputniknews.com/20210908/israeli-military-extends-blockade-of-palestinian-territories-after-escape-of-prisoners-1088895894.html

https://sputniknews.com/20210908/one-hundred-palestinians-injured-in-clashes-with-israeli-forces-near-nablus-red-crescent-says-1088899077.html

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middle east, israel, prison, prison break, palestinians
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/she-didnt-leave-in-huff-prince-of-monaco-addresses-reports-of-rift-with-wife-princess-charlene-1088920009.html

'She Didnt Leave in Huff': Prince of Monaco Addresses Reports of Rift With Wife, Princess Charlene

'She Didnt Leave in Huff': Prince of Monaco Addresses Reports of Rift With Wife, Princess Charlene

Reports that the spouses are bound to split started back when the two tied the knot on 1 July 2011. Back then, media wrote that Princess Charlene attempted to... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T14:57+0000

2021-09-09T14:57+0000

2021-09-09T14:59+0000

monaco

prince albert ii

society

relations

rift

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Prince Albert II of Monaco has addressed reports of a rift with his wife, Princess Charlene. Speaking to People magazine, the royal categorically dismissed reports that Charlene has been living in South Africa for a long time because relations between the two are strained.The royal stressed that his spouse had suffered medical complications that arose after she contracted an unspecified infection earlier this year that affected her ears, nose, and throat in South Africa. The health problems extended her stay in South Africa.Rumours about a rift between the royals started earlier this year, after Princess Charlene departed for South Africa alone and intensified after she missed the couple's 10th wedding anniversary. Prince Albert II acknowledged that the media speculation had taken a toll on the two.Last week it was reported that Princess Charlene had been hospitalised after suddenly collapsing. Doctors are still establishing exactly what happened, said Chantell Wittstock, director of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation. Reports say the princess wont return to Monaco until October.Princess Charlene, nee Charlene Lynette Wittstock, was born on 25 January in 1978 in what is now Zimbabwe. Both her parents are of German origin. In 1989, they moved to South Africa, where Charlene began her swimming career. She represented the country at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. That same year she met Prince Albert II, who is 20 years older than her. The pair made their relationship public in 2006 and five years later they got married.Reports that the two are bound to split appear in the media from time to time. They started right before the couple tied the knot and following the lavish three-day wedding. Media wrote that Princess Charlene allegedly attempted to flee Monaco three times before the nuptials, but was intercepted and stripped of her passport. For this reported incident the media dubbed her the Prisoner Princess.At the wedding, Charlene was seen crying, which added fuel to the fire.Reports suggested that the spouses spent their honeymoon not only in separate beds, but at separate hotels.

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monaco, prince albert ii, society, relations, rift
https://sputniknews.com/20210909/taliban-agree-to-allow-200-foreigners-in-afghanistan-to-fly-out-of-kabul-1088927248.html

Taliban Agree to Allow 200 Foreigners in Afghanistan to Fly Out of Kabul

Taliban Agree to Allow 200 Foreigners in Afghanistan to Fly Out of Kabul

Earlier, there were reports that planes chartered to transport Americans and Afghans out of the country had been stranded at Mazar-i-Sharif International... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T20:56+0000

2021-09-09T20:56+0000

2021-09-09T20:56+0000

afghanistan

mazar-i-sharif

us

afghanistan

taliban

evacuation

us troops in afghanistan

war in afghanistan

mazar-e-sharif

afghanistan war

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The Taliban* agreed to let 200 American civilians and other non-Afghans fly out of Kabul airport on charter flights, with the first commercial flight carrying more than 100 passengers arriving in Doha on Thursday evening, Reuters reported.According to the report, the Taliban were pressured by US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad to allow the travel. Among the passengers, there were also residents from Ukraine, Germany, and the UK. As of Thursday evening, it was yet to be specified if there were any Afghan nationals without passports of other countries onboard.The flights were scheduled to depart on Thursday, with no details on how many US citizens and travelers from other countries would be on board. A US diplomat cited by Reuters did not specify whether the Americans and third-country nationals were among those stuck for days in Mazar-i-Sharif, on charter flights that had been denied permission to depart.According to spokesman Ned Price, the US reminded Taliban officials that "additional steps such as these will be well received by the international community." He would not specify how many Americans were on the trip, stating that the Biden administration had invited 30 Americans and lawful permanent residents to join them, but that not all had accepted.On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken blamed the earlier deadlock on the Taliban and urged the Islamists to allow the charter flights to leave Afghanistan. Blinken at the time stated that the US was doing everything possible to get the flights off the ground, but that the Taliban would not allow them to leave.US Trying to Get 'Vulnerable' People Out From AfghanistanThe Biden administration claimed that about 100 Americans remain to be evacuated, despite US media reports suggesting that volunteer groups organizing private evacuation efforts and Republicans claim that there are over 500 American citizens waiting to be evacuated. A least six planes that were hired to evacuate Americans and allies from Afghanistan were denied permission to leave by the Taliban over the weekend, according to reports.According to reports citing leaked emails, the State Department allegedly declined to approve privately-chartered flights out of Afghanistan that could have evacuated US nationals and Afghan special immigrant visa travelers. According to the DHS, 17% of individuals arriving are US citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government was overthrown by the Taliban. The remaining 83% is made up of a diverse group, including those with Special Immigrant Visas, and others who worked as interpreters or in other capacities for the US or NATO.A hectic airlift of tens of thousands of foreign citizens and Afghans escaping the Taliban's sudden takeover accompanied the US and NATO pullout. The chaotic scenes, which included Afghans tumbling to their deaths while clinging to military planes taxiing on a runway and a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 US service members, came to characterize the final days of the US-led intervention.Following months of military operations, the Taliban speedily conquered Kabul, the Afghan capital, on August 15, and the government crumbled. Last Tuesday, the last American military plane lifted out from Kabul airport, bringing an end to an almost two-decade foreign military presence in the country.*The Taliban is a terrorist group banned in Russia and a number of other countries.

TruePatriot It is highly doubtful that Khalilzad had any influence on the mujahideen. They saw these as Western nationals or citizens and just want them out of the country. It serves no purpose to keep them, and many purposes to let them leave. 2

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https://sputniknews.com/20210909/trump-admin-reportedly-asked-pentagon-to-downplay-us-troops-injuries-in-2020-iran-missile-attacks-1088913880.html

Trump Admin Reportedly Asked Pentagon to Downplay US Troops' Injuries in 2020 Iran Missile Attacks

Trump Admin Reportedly Asked Pentagon to Downplay US Troops' Injuries in 2020 Iran Missile Attacks

In January 2020, Iran targeted two military bases in Iraq hosting US troops in retaliation for the assassination of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T11:33+0000

2021-09-09T11:33+0000

2021-09-09T11:33+0000

donald trump

us

iran

pentagon

iraq

middle east

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The Trump administration asked the Pentagon to delay and downplay reports of US troops' injuries in the January 2020 Iranian strike on Iraqi military bases, former defence spokeswoman Alyssa Farah claimed.Speaking to former CNN journalist Michelle Kosinski and the former head of Britains MI6 intelligence agency, Sir Richard Dearlove, on the podcast "One Decision", Farah said that the Trump-era White House had asked the Defence Department to refrain from providing regular updates on US soldiers' injuries.Referring to the attack as the "heaviest several hours of my life", Farah noted that the initial assertion by Trump about no casualties in the missile strike was true "at the time that we gave those facts to the president", but the former president appeared to have gone "too far" in an attempt to show that "the Iranians were not successful in harming our targets in response".Farah, however, claimed that she did not yield to the pressure from the White House at the time, saying that she had the feeling that "transparency is always going to be your best friend in that field".Iranian Missile StrikeThe missile attack by Iran was carried out on 8 January 2020, several days after Donald Trump ordered a drone strike that killed IRGC General Qasem Soleimani when the latter was leaving Baghdad Airport.Shortly before targeting the two military bases known to be hosting US soldiers, Tehran warned its Iraqi counterparts, giving them several minutes to prepare for the strikes. The attack left some 110 soldiers with traumatic brain injuries, but did not kill anyone. When asked to estimate the potential seriousness of the injuries, Trump said in February that he had "heard that they [US troops] had headaches" and estimated it was "nothing serious".The assassination of Soleimani, which occurred on 3 January 2020, drew massive backlash not only from Iran, but from many others. Particularly, former UN special rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary, and arbitrary killings, Agnes Callamard, said at the time that the killing was "unlawful" due to Washington's failure to provide evidence of an imminent threat from Soleimani, a high-profile military official who was killed "on the territory of a third, non-belligerent country, and outside a known armed conflict".Tehran has denounced Soleimani's assassination numerous times, dubbing the drone strike against the IRGC general an act of "state terrorism". In July, Irans ambassador to the United Nations office in Geneva blasted the Biden administration, noting that Washington's failure in holding accountable and bringing to justice the perpetrators behind the assassination is explicitly clear.

https://sputniknews.com/20200707/un-investigator-rules-us-killing-of-soleimani-unlawful-implies-that-it-constitutes-act-of-war-1079819691.html

GRS This whole article is completely fake and worthless..much like this whole website 9

NthrnNYker59 Have you always sniveled like a sissy ? 8

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https://sputniknews.com/20210909/uks-priti-awful-hypocrisy-1088919213.html

UK's Priti Awful Hypocrisy

UK's Priti Awful Hypocrisy

United Kingdom cabinet minister Priti Patel is accused of being heartless after giving orders this week for British patrol boats to turn back vessels carrying... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T13:54+0000

2021-09-09T13:54+0000

2021-09-09T13:54+0000

united kingdom

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Not only heartless, but Patel and her government also have the capacity for hypocrisy on a Titanic scale.It's a controversial move, to say the least. Under international maritime law, the first priority in intercepting a vessel at sea is to ensure the safety and rescue of people in distress.Now Home Secretary Patel is rewriting international law by sanctioning British patrol ships to push back boats carrying migrants across the English Channel to where they came from  mainly France.It is hard to imagine a policy so brazenly callous. Most of the people crossing the Channel are in overcrowded rickety boats or dinghies. Some have died already from drowning. Patel is prepared to play with their lives in her populist right-wing politicking with France.It is true that there has been a surge this year in numbers crossing the narrow waterway between England and France. But the numbers are still small in comparison with those arriving by sea to other European countries, such as Greece, Italy or Spain.Another damning issue is that the phenomenon of migrants coming to Europe took off in huge numbers around 2014. Most of the refugees are from Afghanistan, Iraq and Syria, as well as Iran. The significance is that the flow of people is correlated with criminal regime-change wars by Britain and its American master. Western crippling economic sanctions against Iran are no doubt a factor in people fleeing that country.In other words, the problem of irregular migration to Britain is a case of chickens coming home to roost. But the British authorities want to wash their hands from complicity.The British government accuses the French authorities of not doing enough to prevent refugees from boarding vessels and making the precarious voyage to the English coast. France says it cant feasibly police every stretch of its coastline.Under European Union rules, the Brits could have a point in returning migrants to the state where they were previously housed. But now that Britain is out of the EU, the convention of returning migrants and asylum seekers to prior destinations within Europe no longer applies.Priti Patel was one of the most eager proponents of the Conservative Party for Brexit. Now that she has got "Brexit done" and undermined relations with the rest of Europe, Patel doesnt want to face up to responsibilities under international law. For her the solution is simple: just rewrite international law.Thats the same rank hypocrisy that the Tory government of Boris Johnson has shown over its legal commitments to the Brexit deal concerning Ireland. Dont like the protocol signed up to? Then just repudiate it.Patel has a lot of personal hypocrisy too. She is the daughter of Indian immigrants who came to England during the 1960s as refugees from the Idi Amin regime in Uganda. Its tempting to say that under Patels current anti-immigrant regime, she wouldnt have been born in England nor gained the advantages of a wealthy, privileged lifestyle.Its not unreasonable to accuse Patel (and the rest of her Tory regime) of being sociopathic. When she was previously an international development minister, she caused a scandal by secretly meeting with the Israeli government. Around the same time, she proposed cuts in humanitarian aid to Palestinians. Eventually, Patel was forced to resign that ministerial post after she was exposed for lying to her then-Number 10 boss, Theresa May.She has also been plagued by accusations of bullying staff and generally of being a nightmare to be around. Civil servant advisors have resigned and won substantial court payouts due to her psychotic misconduct.Given her unscrupulous and reckless-cannon behaviour, you might wonder why Boris Johnson has stood by Patel and given her such a high-profile position in his cabinet?The answer is straightforward. Anybody else pushing the callous policies towards immigrants is liable to bring the British government into disrepute as being "racist" or "xenophobic". But with her Indian heritage, Patel can superficially ward off such criticism. That's why Johnson keeps her on to oversee the dirty work of sending refugees back in their dinghies to France.The views and opinions in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Sputnik

pussymuncher The reason they have so many politicians with tongue twisting names laying down government policy's is because it gives them an extra tool (if needed)to hit back at criticism by using The Race card, imagine if a White Brit says anything about immigration, he's immediately labeled a Nazi etc, it's much harder to do the same to an immigrant politician....now you know why there are so many strange name's pushing policy's of government. 7

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https://sputniknews.com/20210909/us-congressman-demands-answers-amid-reports-unvetted-afghan-evacuees-leave-military-base-freely-1088907801.html

'State Dept Doesn't Seem to Care': Afghan Evacuees 'Have Free Reign' of US Military Base

'State Dept Doesn't Seem to Care': Afghan Evacuees 'Have Free Reign' of US Military Base

Last week, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said that more than 40,000 Afghan evacuees had entered the US since the Taliban* seized power in... 09.09.2021, Sputnik International

2021-09-09T07:42+0000

2021-09-09T07:42+0000

2021-09-09T12:10+0000

us

afghanistan

taliban

antony blinken

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Afghan evacuees stationed at a military base in Blackstone, Virginia, apparently feel at home and and are at liberty to leave the base using rideshare apps without being controlled by the authorities, Fox News has reported.The broadcaster cited Republican Congressman Mark Green who said that he has sent a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, asking him to clarify the situation with the Afghan evacuees at the Fort Pickett base.Green referred to an unnamed source with knowledge of the situation who made the allegations to his office that the evacuees held at Fort Pickett basically have free rein of the complex and have even been allowed to leave despite not having completed the vetting process.The congressman argued that soldiers stationed at Fort Pickett have no authority to "arrest or stop" any of the evacuees from leaving the base on their own free will, irrespective of vetting status.The congressman also suggested that the problem exists not only at Fort Pickett, and that the Pentagon is not necessarily to blame in this specific regard because the military gets orders from Blinken.The State Department is failing to give [the Pentagon] adequate information They don't know exactly how many [evacuees] are even there. So they can't account for someone if they don't return. And they are telling the people if you go and you don't come back, that will end your Visa processing. If they want free, they are gone. There is nobody to keep them from leaving, Green asserted.He remained downbeat about a Fox News hosts remarks that General Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, insisted that Afghan evacuees are allegedly going through several levels of databases to define their validity for transportation to the US."We have no way of knowing who they are and we've had talks with people who are saying they know Taliban is in some of these flights. So this is one of the greatest security risks this nation has ever had and this president and this State Department don't seem to care, the congressman added.The remarks came after media reports said earlier this week that former US special envoy for Guantanamo Closure, Lee Wolosky, will lead the Biden administration's legal efforts on resettling Afghan evacuees in the US. More than 40,000 Afghans have been evacuated from Afghanistan in what was praised by President Joe Biden as the largest airlift in history but slammed by POTUS EU allies who reproached him for failing to extend the evacuation deadline.*The Taliban is a terrorist group banned in Russia and many other countries

https://sputniknews.com/20210906/us-state-dept-accused-of-blocking-private-afghan-evacuations-its-not-the-taliban-holding-this-up-1083805482.html

Fist POLITICAL FACTS: Out of the 74 U.S. State Department senior officials, 40 are Jews or have Jewish spouses. This is a numerical representation of 54%. Jews are approximately 2% of the U.S. population. Therefore Jews are over-represented among the U.S. State Department senior officials by a factor of 27 times. (2,700%). 9

Chocolate bunny breaker Absolutely, people don't like anyone to point out who is ruling our nation and why it has turned against it's own people moving toward a Marxist union. I wish our nation never saved these parasites from the national socialists, look what they have done to the descendants of the people who saved them and gave them safe harbor??? 0

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us, afghanistan, taliban, antony blinken, military base, evacuees
Northern Baccarat and Barefootnpregnant won the $12,600 featured paces on Wednesday afternoon (Sept. 8) at Harrahs Philadelphia.

The Bettors Delight gelding Northern Baccarat and driver Tim Tetrick made an early move to control the pace, rated the half, then sprinted home in :27.3 to draw clear in a career best 1:52.4 in the feature for males. Paul Stafford trains the improving four-year-old, now victorious in three of his last six outings, for owner Thomas Ceraso Jr.

The crowd found little difference between Barefootnpregnant (4-5) and Three Way Split (6-5) in the headline division for distaffers, and thats just how they came through the stretch, with the Shadow Play filly Barefootnpregnant setting the pace and then resisting the inside charge of Three Way Split by a neck while equalling her lifetime best of 1:53.2. Driver George Napolitano Jr., trainer Michael Hall, and the ownership of Let It Ride Stables Inc. are three-for-three with the sophomore after acquiring her just over a month ago.

The $11,200 fast-class pace for veteran performers went to Bombshell Hanover, who has worked out a pocket trip in four of his last five starts, with two wins and two seconds. The Somebeachsomewhere gelding sat behind a tough opponent in Somebaddude, then came up the inside in the stretch to win by a neck and equal his mark of 1:50.4. Simon Allard guided the Josh Green trainee for the KDP Stable LLC.

The Thursday afternoon (Sept. 9) card at Philly features two $14,400 divisions of class-climbing trotters, along with a $13,000 fast-class trot. On Friday (Sept. 10), Harrahs will celebrate its 15th anniversary, with the nostalgia and festivities  along with the racing card  beginning at 6 p.m. Program pages are available at the PHHA website.

(PHHA/Harrah's Philadelphia)
First Tracks Cumberland has announced a series of Late Closing events for the upcoming eight-day Cumberland (Maine) Fair on Sunday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Oct. 3.

We are excited to bring increased opportunities to the Maine horsepeople for the Cumberland Fair," said Race Secretary Marc Reynolds. "Most of the local trainers and owners supported us during our inaugural Spring/Summer meet, and we look forward to taking their entries again for the Fair.

First Tracks Cumberland is proud to be managing the Fair meet on behalf of the Cumberland Farmers Club, and we hope to deliver some great racing for the loyal fans of Southern Maine harness.

Three events have been written, with two individual pacing events for non-winners of $300 per start and $500 per start, with final purses guaranteed at $8,000 and $10,000, respectively. There are no entry fees and horses may drop in during the regular draw.

On the trot, the final purse is $12,000 for four-year-olds and older that are non-winners of $800 per start. In all three events, horses must have made at least six starts in the state of Maine at time of entry and mares are given a 20 per cent allowance on per start earnings.

Live harness racing from the 149th annual Cumberland Fair is presented live each day starting Sunday, Sept. 26, and continuing daily through Sunday, Oct. 3. First race post time is 1:30 p.m. on each of the eight consecutive race dates. For more information, visit firsttrackscumberland.com and follow the track on Facebook at @FirstTracksCumberland.

The Cumberland Agricultural County Fair also begins Sunday, Sept. 26 and runs through Saturday, Oct. 2. For more information about the fair and an event schedule, visit cumberlandfair.com.

(First Tracks Cumberland)
Four divisions of two-year-old filly pacers will take to the Eldorado Scioto Downs track Thursday, Sept. 9, for the fourth leg of the Buckeye Stallion Series.

Future Ex Wife (sired by Fear The Dragon) leads the 32 fillies that will go for a purse of $17,500 in each division. Trained by Bill Rhoades and driven by Aaron Merriman, Future Ex-Wife has won the three previous legs.

Two fillies, Cruzinbytheseaside (by Downbytheseaside) and McAngel (by McArdle), have each won two legs of the series. Cruzinbytheseaside is trained by Virgil Morgan Jr. and driven by Brett Miller. Sandy Beatty trains and drives McAngel.

Seven other fillies have won a leg in the series, including: Love Me Hill (by Racing Hill), Fantasy Life (by Downbytheseaside), Prancing Queen (by Downbytheseaside), Shesonebadmomma (by Big Bad John), She Means Business (by Pet Rock), Bowery (by Downbytheseaside), and Bittrsweetsymphony (by Well Said).

Post time at Eldorado Scioto Downs is set for 6:15 p.m.

The Buckeye Stallion Series returns to Scioto Downs on Saturday, Sept. 11 with the fourth leg for two-year-old colt pacers and three-year-old filly pacers.

(With files from Ohio Harness Horsemens Association)
Operators in New Brunswick have put forth a fantastic program for this Saturday (Sept. 11) at Exhibition Park Raceway presented by Horse Racing New Brunswick.

The Saturday program will feature 11 races of star-studded action including another match-up of three-year-old sensations Woodmere Stealdeal, trained by Danny Romo, and Dustylanegoliath, from the Gilles Barrieau barn, in the $10,300 Dawn Bremner Stakes.

Maritimer winner Tobins Brownie will be back in action in the $10,300 Bremner Stakes for fillies for trainer/driver David Dowling. She also set a track record at Red Shores of 1:53.4 during Old Home Week this year.

Time To Dance, from the powerful Marc Campbell stable, will be at Exhibition Park competing in the $6,000 Rod Goguen Memorial Invitational Pace. He set the track record at Truro Raceway earlier this season.

Also, the inaugural New Brunswick Breeders Stakes for two-year-olds will be contested in two divisions worth more than $20,000 in purse money.

The action-packed card of racing is set to go at 1 p.m. this Saturday.

This week on the 'Racing Around The Maritimes' podcast, producer Grady Hachey chats with Horse Racing New Brunswick's Scott Waddell to preview the card.

Horse Racing New Brunswick would like to extend a big thank you to all horsemen and women taking part in Saturday's race card. It's one of the biggest cards assembled in New Brunswick in a long time.

Wagering is available at three locations in New Brunswick at simulcast locations and wagering available through HPIbet. Fans and horsemen can also find race programs online at the official website of Horse Racing New Brunswick.

To view Saturday's harness racing entries, click on the following link: Saturday Entries - Exhibition Park Raceway.

(With files from HRNB)
Saturday was a big day for the Collins family as four of them were honored with Quilts of Valor at the Box Butte Veterans Cemetery by the Panhandle Blocks Quilts of Valor.

Martin Dean Collins currently resides at the Hemingford Community Care Center and was the fifth of the 11 Collins children to have served in the U.S. Air Force. He and his brothers Richard and David are sons of James and Oda Collins and were all born in Alliance.

Martin met Lois Moravek, a 1947 Hemingford High School graduate, at a dance hall west of Hemingford. They were married on May 6, 1950 at St. Bridgets Catholic Church. Soon after Martin enlisted and completed his basic training at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas in November of 1951. He was sent to Cheyenne to attend school at Warren Air Force Base for five months. His wife was able to join him there. Following school, they were stationed at Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, Texas where, DeAnn, the first of their eight children, was born. Martin served there until he was given a hardship discharge to return home to the family farm. He remained in the reserves until he was discharged in September of 1959.

The couple was married for nearly 69 years before Lois passed away in 2019. Their eight children gave them 16 grandchildren and from them came 18 great-grandchildren.
They all expressed a real desire to be a part of it, they understand the need, and you know were all facing the same thing: Were trying to recruit people for our future. Were trying to recruit people to stay in our communities. And, we just felt like this was a good opportunity to identify ... (students) that have a heart for service and expose them to a variety of those service industries. And, our hope is that we can get them to stay in our communities, or come back to our communities after their college education, and be an attorney, be a police officer or be a fire person.

The Gering Fire Department offers its own CADET program, which has been underway for some time, but this will be a separate program from that. However, Gering Fire Chief Nathan Flowers said he still envisions a program where students can explore hands-on learning, such as being taught basic CPR, handling a fire hose and other skills, to see if its a career pathway that they are interested in. He said that firefighters are really excited to share with them lessons on integrity, honesty and what it means to be in civil service or a public servant and perhaps have a step up if they pursue a career in those areas in the future.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  Lawmakers who are drafting Nebraska's new political boundaries agreed Thursday to present two sets of legislative and congressional maps to the public after hitting a major impasse and trading accusations that the maps were skewed to favor a specific political party.

Members of the Legislature's Redistricting Committee failed to reach an agreement over any one set of plans during a meeting just ahead of next week's special legislative session. The committee has scheduled hearings next week in Omaha, Lincoln and Grand Island where members of the public can testify.

One proposed map appears to help Republicans by splitting northwestern Douglas County out of the 2nd Congressional District, which currently encompasses all of Douglas and part of Sarpy County.

Another map backed by Democrats would keep Douglas County whole but move Democrat-friendly Bellevue, in Sarpy County, back into the 2nd District, where it was located prior to the Legislature's 2011 redistricting. The Democratic plan would also remove suburban areas of the 2nd District that lean Republican.
This agreement recognizes were signed up to Paris and that well meet our Paris targets, which we will do hands down, Tehan told Radio 4BC.

We got a fantastic outcome both for Australia and the U.K. in that F.T.A., which were seeking to finalize at the moment, Tehan added, referring to a free trade agreement.

Reducing emissions is a politically fraught issue in Australia, which is one of the world's largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The nation is also one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Resources Minister Keith Pitt said in a statement on Thursday that coal remained Australias largest export after iron ore and that wont be changing any time soon.

This followed U.N. Special Adviser on Climate Change Selwin Hart this week urging Australia to phase out coal.

Australia has not budged from its 2015 pledge at the Paris climate conference to reduce emissions by 26% to 28% below 2005 levels by 2030 ahead of climate talks in Glasgow.

The conservative government aims to reduce emissions to net-zero and preferably by 2050, but wont commit to that target.
Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science associate professor at the University of the Philippines, said the fact that Duterte has the audacity to run and the party nominated him indicates they've been emboldened by the approval and trust ratings of the president despite the bungling of the pandemic response.

Polls indicate strong support for Duterte running in tandem with his daughter, Sara Duterte, as the candidate for president  though he suggested he might step out of the vice presidential race if she announces a bid for the top job.

Sara Duterte, 43, is currently the mayor of Davao City and is a member of the regional HNP party, which she founded in 2018. She has supported her father's party at the national level.

Under Philippine law, the vice president is elected separately from the president and Dutertes party on Wednesday nominated his longtime ally and former aide Sen. Christopher Bong Go for the candidacy.

But Go, who had told the party at the end of August that he had decided not to run for president, in what analysts suggested was a move to pave the way for Sara Dutertes candidacy, declined the nomination.
For example: I was only at the Overflowing Love & Forgiveness Candle Company for two weeks, but during that short time, absolutely every single person in my department hated my guts and refused to work with me.

Now, thats an achievement that will really brighten up the old CV.

Having gaps in your employment history is another CV no-no that can be turned into a yes-yes.

Plenty of people go through periods of unemployment, Fennell writes. This could be due to illness, redundancy, caring for others, travel or any number of other reasons. (Redundancy is another Britishism. It means that management has suddenly realized your job is not essential, which is hardly fair, since thats exactly why they picked you to do it.)

Again, the way to manage a black hole in your resume is to explain what you gained during the employment void. This could be new skills such as a new language or cultural awareness. 
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A nearly $10.3 million manufacturing expansion in Smyth County that created new jobs was celebrated last week.

In early 2019, the Virginia governors office announced that Scholle IPN Packaging Inc., a manufacturer of sustainable packaging solutions, planned to expand its production facility in Chilhowie and add 42 jobs. The plant expansion was expected to take about two years with construction concluding by that fall and new equipment being added over two years.

Scholle IPN is one of the worlds largest packaging manufacturers, providing sustainable packaging for the food and beverage, agriculture, automotive, cleaning, personal care, and pharmaceutical sectors.

If Scholle was able to meet its planned investment and employment goals, the governors office agreed to award it a $125,000 grant from the Commonwealths Opportunity Fund.

Last Thursday evening, Smyth County presented a check for the full grant amount to Ricardo Bernardo, plant manager, and Melinda Roberts, human resources director.

County officials noted that Scholle IPN invested $3.24 million in building up-fits and $7.05 million in production related machinery. In 2019, Gil Graham, Scholle IPNs director of operations, noted that innovative processes would be added to the Chilhowie plant.
ROME (AP)  Vatican officials declined on Tuesday to say if women would be able to vote on concrete proposals about the future of the Catholic Church at the end of a two-year process of consultation of ordinary faithful that Pope Francis kicks off next month.

For years, women activists and even nuns have pressed to be able to vote at Synod of Bishops meetings, which bring together the Catholic hierarchy to Rome to discuss pressing issues facing the 1.3-billion strong church.

Francis has sought to make them more inclusive, participatory and reflect on the real-world issues facing ordinary Catholics. But to date women haven't been able to vote - not even the religious superiors who participate as representatives of the world's 641,000 nuns.

The Vatican on Tuesday outlined the key steps in the next synod process, which will focus specifically on "synodality" or the decentralized nature of the church and the role of the Catholic laity in it.

The process begins Oct. 10 with a papal Mass in St. Peter's and ends in October 2023 with the bishops voting on a final document. In between, the Vatican envisions a process of consultation of rank-and-file Catholics at the diocesan level and up through national bishops conferences to hear what Catholics across the board want from their church in the third millennium.
The more than 2,000 Cowlitz County residents who filed for continued federal unemployment benefits as of Aug. 28 likely will not receive checks next month as federal pandemic relief for the unemployed has ended. Many filers do not have college degrees and often hold lower-paying jobs.

The federal government ended its 17-month expansion of unemployment over the Labor Day weekend, leaving thousands of people in Cowlitz County  including at least 38% of filers without college degrees  no longer qualified to receive benefits. Exact numbers in the decrease in filers will be available next month, the state said.

The federal government expanded unemployment requirements in March 2020 as businesses closed to protect the public from COVID-19. People with high school degrees or less have been the hardest hit.

+2 'Tens of thousands' may owe money back to state for unemployment payments Almost a year after John Fauver received his last unemployment benefit in 2020, Washington officials requested back nearly $6,000 in overpayments.

Job availability by degree

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports people with a high school diploma or less faced more job cuts during the pandemic than those with college degrees. Before the pandemic, the unemployment gap between people with high school degrees or less and a bachelors degree or more was about 2%, but from February to May 2020, the gap rose 12 percentage points, the federal government reports.
Willow Groves trespass procedure will get an overhaul after Longview port commissioners directed staff to bring a more robust policy to the table at a future meeting.

The ports legal counsel LeAnne Bremer, with Miller Nash LLP, said she looked into the same topic several years ago for the port and created a notice form for staff to use when removing unruly trespassing people from the park.

We wanted to make sure that we had procedures and processes in place for when unruly behavior occurs at the park and for what the port can do about it, Bremer said at the ports Wednesday meeting. Certainly the port has the authority to issue notices.

She said there are due process requirements for expelling people from public places, so we wanted to make sure were following those and not violating anybodys constitutional rights.

The current form port staff complete includes a process for people to appeal a trespass notice. Bremer said while there have been appeals made, she did not have further details on them.
While Fish and Wildlife did an emergency translocation of some deer to the Ridgefield refuge, the levee project ultimately was successful, and deer populations have returned to pre-translocation levels. Thats about 80 to 100 deer living on the Cathlamet refuge.

The new levee also is holding up well. While there was a little erosion that was fixed after it was first built, Ferrier said after plants grew on the levee we havent seen any further erosion. Thats because the setback levees position is farther away from ship channel traffic and waves gives it more protection.

Fast forward to today, and we have this wonderful floodplain restoration, Ferrier said. The river is now able to connect using those breaches and flood that area and then unflood, the tides come in and out and the habitat is beautiful.

Native plants have increased substantially, Ferrier said, and the restored wetlands are a hotspot for migratory birds, salmon, and even the deer eat the plants when the tides are low.

Salmon, both juvenile and adult, also have made use of the new habitat. Ferrier said the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has done sampling and pit tag studies in the past and found juvenile salmon and adult steelhead and Chinook salmon all move in and out of the estuary.

Adult chinook and steelhead come in when they return to go back up the river to spawn in the Snake River basin, Ferrier said. Thats more than they knew would happen in the restoration. Its really kind of been a win-win-win.

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The resolution about mandates was not the only significant item on Tuesdays agenda. The City Council was scheduled to vote to provide matching funds for the Safe Routes to Schools project near Huntington Middle School and a renewal for the NoaNet telecommunications franchise set to expire Sept. 16.

The Kelso Police Department had multiple items up for council approval including the creation of a body camera program, the purchase of a city police vehicle and the approval of an interlocal agreement for an armored vehicle for the Cowlitz County SWAT team. Markstrom said she supported the Kelso police, but had no problem delaying funding for them after they enforced the mask mandate Tuesday.

I feel pretty angry about that. I dont pay them to back the city manager, I pay them to back me like I back them, Markstrom said.

Richard McCaine was conflicted about his decision to walk out of the meeting. McCaine said he understood the importance of many of the items the City Council had been scheduled to vote on, but he shared the frustration of the attendees who were barred at the door.

Everybody wanted to be heard and there were people outside that werent going to be heard. If there isnt a discussion, we dont know the diversity of opinions, McCaine said.
Save the lake before it becomes a swamp

Hey, what is happening to the jewel of our city, Lake Sacajawea? Frequent walks show daily deterioration. Beavers continue to chew away at the trees and the milfoil grows thicker by the minute.

Wasnt there a plan to introduce carp which was done years ago at Silver Lake? Those fish cleaned up that lake and kept it from becoming a swamp, which is the direction our lake is heading. Thousands of people enjoy this beautiful asset to our community, and its past time the City Council does something before our jewel turns into a stinking swamp.

Nan Dodson

Longview

Local candidates are the best candidates

Hometown proud. How fortunate we are to have two people who were born and raised in Longview running for positions on the City Council.

Both Angie Wean and Tom Lee have had opportunities to have life experiences in the bigger world and can give fresh perspectives on some of the problems that seem to have our current leaders perplexed.

Please join me in supporting and voting for these candidates who will bring energy and vision to our community.
Not one, there are as many as 3 asteroids that are heading towards Earth and they are expected to come dangerously close this month. One asteroid will be so close that it has been classified as potentially hazardous by NASA linked Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

Before we get into the details of these asteroids, lets first understand what asteroids really are. As NASA explains it, asteroids, also called minor planets, are rocky, airless remnants left over from the early formation of our solar system about 4.6 billion years ago. Although asteroids orbit the Sun like planets, they are much smaller than planets and hence they are not classified as planets.

NASA says that there are a lot of asteroids in our solar system but most of them are located in the main asteroid belt, which is a region between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. But thats not the only region where asteroids are found. Some asteroids go in front of and behind Jupiter. These are called Trojan asteroids. There is another variety of asteroids that come close to Earth. These asteroids are called Near Earth Objects or NEOs. NASA keeps a close watch on NEOs as sometimes these asteroids can come dangerously close to the Earth.

Now, space agencies have detailed three asteroids that will fly by dangerously close to the Earth in the month of September 2021. One of these asteroids is called 2010 RJ53 and it will reach its closest approach to Earth on September 9 at which point at a distance of 366,000 kilometres from the Earth. News 18 reports that this asteroid is 774 metres in diameter and it is just 54 metres smaller than the Burj Khalifa.

The second asteroid is called 2021 PT. It will reach its closest approach to Earth on September 11 at which point it will be at a distance of 4.9 million kilometres from the Earth. This asteroid is 137 metres in size.

The third asteroid that will zoom past the Earth this month is called 2021 NY1. This asteroid is 127 to 284 metres in diameter, which is roughly the size of a school bus. It will fly by Earth on September 22 at a distance of 1.5 million kilometres. NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory has classified 2021 NY1 as a "Potentially Hazardous Asteroid" due to its predicted close pass with the Earth.
SpaceX will launch its first civilian space tourism mission on September 15. The companys first trip is set to take off from the NASA pad at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida in the US. SpaceX Inspiration4 flight is a three-day trip in space. The launch is notable for several reasons, including the fact that this will be the first-ever flight in orbit without an astronaut on board, but there will be a crew. This will also be the first SpaceX mission to feature the glass observatory dome on the Dragon spacecraft. The mission is being conducted to study the impact of spaceflight on the human body.

SpaceX has already revealed many important details about the flight, including the notable inclusion of 29-year-old Hayley Arceneaux, who is a bone cancer survivor. The Inspiration4 mission is intended to create awareness about St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, and hopefully raise $200 million for the facility, according to the Inspiration4 mission website.

Also read: Looking for a smartphone? Check Mobile Finder here.

Once the SpaceX crew is in orbit, they will perform scientific and research experiments on human health and performance in order to better understand human health during future spaceflights. The crew of Inspiration4 is eager to use our mission to help make a better future for those who will launch in the years and decades to come, said Jared Isaacman, commander of the Inspiration4 mission.

When, where and how to watch SpaceX Inspiration4 launch live stream online

SpaceX is reportedly targeting a 24-hour launch window starting at 8 PM ET on Tuesday, September 14. This means that space enthusiasts in India must be ready starting 5:30 AM IST on Wednesday (September 15), to watch the event live. As the launch date approaches, SpaceX will narrow down the launch window to five hours, depending on weather conditions. The Inspiration4 launch will be live-streamed on the official SpaceX YouTube channel, which can be accessed here. Those who miss it should be able to catch a video of the launch event later once the live stream is completed.
Ego vehicle (red vehicle) is following a decelerating agent vehicle (white car) with a close distance on a curved road in a residential area, and the sun rises behind the ego vehicle. Credit: University of Warwick

The Safety PoolTM Scenario Database, the largest public repository of scenarios for testing autonomous vehicles in the worldled by WMG at the University of Warwick and Deepen AIwill now be used in China, thanks to a new partnership with Automotive Data of China, a subsidiary of the China Automotive Technology and Research Center (CATARC-ADC).

CATARC-ADC is China's principal research and technical organization for the automotive industry, and is at the cutting edge of the country's innovation and regulation for connected and autonomous vehicles (CAV). Meanwhile, CATARC-ADC actively participates in ISO, ASAM and UNECE and other international organizations, with international influence.

This significant new major collaboration, launched today (9 September 2021), means that Safety Pool Scenario Databases will enable road simulations including use cases from China, broadening the scope of this global safety platformthus supporting the growing CAV industry, informing emerging regulatory policies, and enhancing the safety of millions more drivers across China and beyond.

Dr. Siddartha Khastgir, head of verification & validation, intelligent vehicles at WMG, University of Warwick, said:

"Safety of Autonomous Vehicles needs to be a collaborative mission. No one organization or country can achieve this mission on their own. With this in mind we created Safety PoolTM Scenario Database to enable global collaboration on scenario sharing.

We are delighted that CATARC-ADC have joined Safety PoolTM Scenario Database which reinforces our mission of international collaboration on CAV safety. With a diverse set of scenarios, the database caters to a large number of autonomous vehicle applications, many of which will be relevant for our stakeholders in China."

Credit: University of Warwick

Nicola Croce, technical program manager, Deepen AI, said: "Safety Pool has all the ingredients to be the reference platform and initiative for AV safety assurance worldwide. What's very unique about it is its global scope, the incentive-based mechanisms engineered to attract and provide value to every different industry stakeholder, and the deep engagement with regulators, everything based on a common foundation of data sharing.

We are excited to welcome CATARC-ADC to the Safety Pool initiative. CATARC-ADC is the major player in scenario-based testing and scenario databases in China. CATARC-ADC's entry into Safety Pool provides a key stepping stone in international collaborations in the scenario-based testing landscape of AVs, and a major leap forward to help companies improve their adaptability in China-oriented testing for ADS."

Since the launch of this pioneering project in March 2021, WMG at the University of Warwick and Deepen AI have collaborated with stakeholders around the world: to date, over 200 organizations have enrolled in the Safety PoolTM Scenario Database

Bolin Zhou, global business general manager, CATARCADC said: "As a founding member of Safety PoolTM Scenario Database in China and the leading third-party company for ADS validation in China, Automotive Data of China will use the great opportunity of Safety PoolTM Scenario Database to tackle the global autonomous vehicle safety issues with its own strength. Safety PoolTM Scenario Database is a crucial, open platform that aligns well with ADC positioning in China and around the world. Through Safety PoolTM Scenario Database, a global safety tool, China will continue to provide data and tool services for automated driving system validation"

Tim Dawkins, global impact strategy lead, World Economic Forum said: "Initiatives like Safety Pool are key to making safe autonomous vehicles a realitywe should not be making safety a competitive advantage. This shared scenario library will allow developers to learn from one another's datasets to increase the robustness of their systems through exposure to a diverse scenario set. CATARC's support for Safety Pool represents a vital commitment to a level playing field for the development of autonomous vehicles in the name of safety"

Ego vehicle (the red vehicle) is following an accelerating agent vehicle (white car) with a safe distance on a straight road in a residential area, and the sun rises in front of ego vehicle. Credit: University of Warwick

Richard Morris, innovation leadautonomous & connected vehicles, Innovate UK said: "Innovate UK is glad to have supported the creation and the development of the Safety PoolTM Scenario Database. We would also like to encourage more organizations and countries to contribute scenario content. Scenarios kept in private siloes will not help the mass acceptance of vehicle automation. We all need to share safety knowledge and make best practice widely available. The more comprehensive the Safety PoolTM Scenario Database becomes, the more useful it is for any developer wanting to deploy CAVs anywhere around the world."

The database provides a diverse set of scenarios in different operational design domains (ODDs i.e. operating conditions) that can be leveraged by governments, industry and academia alike to test and benchmark Automated Driving Systems (ADSs) and use insights to inform policy and regulatory guidelines.

The scenarios have been generated using a novel hybrid methodology developed by WMG, at the University of Warwick, using both knowledge-based and data-based approaches. The Safety Pool Scenario Database allows organizations to create scenarios in their own libraries, collaborate with other organizations via both shared and public libraries and enable the public to submit challenging real-world scenarios.

Enabling scenarios to be matched to specific environments and operating conditions means that trials and tests can be undertaken in the simulated environment, controlled test facilities and on public roads, with evidence from each environment being used to inform our understanding of safe behaviors, bringing Autonomous Vehicles closer to market at pace.

It has been suggested that in order for CAV to be safe for the average driver, they will need to be tested on 11 billion miles of roadan insurmountable goal in the physical world. The Safety Pool scenario based virtual simulations not only offer the necessary quantity of testing, but also the complexity and quality of countless 'real-world' road scenarios.

The development of the Safety Pool Scenario Database was funded by UK's Centre for Connected & Autonomous Vehicles (CCAV), Innovate UK and Zenzic funded Midlands Future Mobility project led by WMG, University of Warwick.

Explore further First demonstration of Mcity's test concept for highly automated vehicles
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Top officials from the EU and US later will this month try to attune their strategies on regulating big tech and defend democratic values on the internet, a statement said on Thursday.

The creation of an EU-US tech council was agreed at a summit in June and its work begins as both sides are drawing up laws that could profoundly change the ways giants such as Google, Facebook or Apple do business.

The US will almost certainly press Europe to help curb the ambitions of emerging superpower China.

The first transatlantic Trade and Tech Council will take place in Pittsburgh, a US tech hub, on September 29.

It will be chaired by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, US Trade Representative Katherine Tai and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

On the European side, EU executive vice presidents Margrethe Vestager, the bloc's tech supremo, and Valdis Dombrovskis will take the lead talks.

The council came at the request of the Europeans who sought concrete signs of appeased transatlantic cooperation after years of tension under president Donald Trump, especially over trade matters.

"This inaugural meeting ... marks our joint commitment to expanding and deepening transatlantic trade and investment and to updating the rules for the 21st century economy," a joint statement said.

"Building on our shared democratic values and the world's largest economic relationship, we have been working hard ... to identify the areas where we can take concrete steps to ensure trade and technology policies deliver for our people," it added.

The statement said the meeting will consist of 10 working groups on topics that include cooperation on technology standards, supply chain security and security and human rights abuses online.

Explore further US launches probe of France's planned tech giants tax

 2021 AFP
In this Nov. 10, 2016, photo, people walk near a Microsoft office in New York. Microsoft is telling employees Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, that their return to U.S. offices is delayed indefinitely until it's safer to do so. "Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, we've decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our U.S. work sites," corporate vice president Jared Spataro wrote in a blog post. Credit: AP Photo/Swayne B. Hall

Microsoft told employees Thursday that it has indefinitely delayed their return to U.S. offices until it's safer to do so.

"Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, we've decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our U.S. work sites," Jared Spataro, a corporate vice president, wrote in a blog post.

Microsoft had already postponed its planned return to the workplace from September to no earlier than Oct. 4, but now says the re-opening won't be next month.

Microsoft employs about 181,000 full-time workers, of whom 103,000 are in the U.S.

Microsoft will wait for public health guidance on when it is safe to return, Spataro said. It will then give workers a 30-day transition period to prepare.

Last month Microsoft said it will require proof of vaccination for all employees, vendors and visitors to its U.S. offices starting this fall.

The tech giant has made a big push since the pandemic emerged to tailor its suite of workplace software products to homebound workers and timed its delayed re-opening announcement with a number of new product features.

A hybrid approach permitting employees to toggle between remote and in-office work has been widely embraced in the technology industry, particularly among the largest companies with the biggest payrolls.

Many tech companies had plans for bringing back most of their workers around Labor Day weekend, but Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon and a growing list of others have already decided to wait until next year.

Explore further Microsoft requires vaccinations for workers, as office returns slow

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Smart cities will not be truly smart until they have sustainable transport systems. New work published in the International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics has used fuzzy logic to look at the options.

Chenghua Wang of the School of Public Affairs at Chongqing University, in Chongqing, China, and colleagues Oscar Sanjuan Martinez and Ruben Gonzalez Crespo of the School of Engineering and Technology at the Universidad Internacional de La Rioja in Spain, suggest that current expansion of transportation is having an increasingly detrimental effect on environment at the local and global levels as well as reducing the quality of life for many people. They suggest that governments and those running our cities must invest in clean, safe, efficient, economic, and sustainable transport networks to address this growing problem. This is even more pressing given the demands of the citizens living and working in technologically rich cities, which we might refer to as smart cities.

The problem facing policy makers, planners, and stakeholders in transportation is how to define what is meant by sustainable transport and how to select the appropriate systems to fulfill the demands of such a system.

The current team has introduced what they refer to as an improved hybrid fuzzy logic system (IHFLS) for the generation of aggregate values for the sustainable evaluation of hybrid fuzzy logic to allow the decisions to be made more effectively. In the first step, they define the sustainability evaluation criteria for transport. In step two, experts provide language ratings against selected criteria for potential alternatives. Finally, the IHFLS generates aggregate results for the evaluation of sustainability and the choice of the best alternatives. The approach allows the social, economic, and environmental considerations, to be balanced equitably, viably, and in a way that stakeholders can bear. Optimally, all of these criteria will mesh together to enable a sustainable solution to be found for a given city.

Explore further How research can encourage us to cycle more

More information: Chenghua Wang et al, Improved hybrid fuzzy logic system for evaluating sustainable transportation systems in smart cities, International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics (2021). Chenghua Wang et al, Improved hybrid fuzzy logic system for evaluating sustainable transportation systems in smart cities,(2021). DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2021.117295
Industrial and enterprise systems engineering professor Lavanya Marla and her colleagues calculated the relative costs of different methods of responding to flight disruptions caused by higher temperatures in a warming climate. Credit: L. Brian Stauffer

When Phoenix temperatures topped 120 F in June 2017, American Airlines canceled dozens of flights at a local airport because the airplanes could not take off safely in the extreme heat. Scenarios like this are likely to become more common as a result of climate warming, scientists say, but the operational costs to airlines and passengers are largely unknown.

To fill this gap in knowledge, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign industrial and enterprise systems engineering professor Lavanya Marla, her Ph.D. student Jane Lee and University of Michigan professor Parth Vaishnav built a mathematical model to calculate how much it will cost airlines to cope with rising temperatures. The model incorporated historical schedule and traffic data; present-day airport design; and airline fleet composition, scheduling and troubleshooting protocols. It used these data in conjunction with future climate projections to calculate the relative costs of different methods of responding to flight disruptions caused by higher temperatures in a warming climate.

Reported in the journal Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, the model predicted substantial heat-related expenditures for airlines in 2035 and 2050, the two years analyzed. The researchers used a climate model known as RCP 8.5 in their calculations, determining the added costs for mild, moderate and severe climate projections.

"Lots of people over the last 15 years have looked at how aviation affects climate, but what about the reverse? What is the impact of climate on airline operations?" Marla said. "Our study found that the total aircraft and passenger costs that airlines experience today can increase, on average, anywhere from 29 percent to 49 percent."

Hot air is less dense than cool air. Extremely hot temperaturestypically above 118 Fcan affect an airplane's ability to generate enough lift to get off the ground. Smaller aircraft, in particular, may lack sufficient power to overcome this limitation and may have to offload some passengers or cargo to lessen their loads, Marla said. Airlines may switch passengers to larger aircraft or delay takeoff until conditions improve. Shorter runways also cause difficulty in generating enough lift, and airports may consider lengthening them.

Every choice can lead to further disruptionsdelayed takeoffs and late arrivals, airplanes idling on the tarmac, inconvenience to passengers and crews, for exampleeach of which has associated costs.

"Instead of assuming a fixed capacity for an aircraftthat is, the total number of seatswe calculated how that capacity changes based on temperature and which airport you're departing from," Marla said. "And we found that passengers and airlines will be severely impacted as the climate changes."

The new model will allow airlines and airports to determine how their climate-related operational costs will compare with the cost of making strategic investments to adapt to climate changeby building longer runways, for example, or investing in more powerful airplanes, Marla said.

"We wanted to emphasize that adaptation, to some extent, will be needed," she said. "We also wanted to better understand the costs of not doing so."

Explore further Recovery from airline delays works best with future disruptions in mind

More information: Jane Lee et al, The impact of climate change on the recoverability of airline networks, Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment (2021). Jane Lee et al, The impact of climate change on the recoverability of airline networks,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.trd.2021.102801
South Hills (15301)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 74F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to mostly cloudy skies after midnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Glynn County held remembrance services Saturday for events that happened 20 years ago far away in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania but which drew the nation into war and cost the lives of local people.
Senate Bill 2222, which was signed by Gov. Greg Abbott in June, will fund bullet resistant glass for Texas Department of Transportation vehicles, though the contract for those windshields has not been awarded.

After outfitting law enforcement vehicles in Brazos County, Moore said, their goal is to reach the rest of the Brazos Valley and the state, if possible.

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The initiative to provide the new windows began in the spring of 2021 after DPS Trooper Juan Tovar was shot in April in pursuit of the suspect in the Kent Moore Cabinets shooting and DPS Trooper Chad Walker, who was shot and ultimately died from his injuries in March 2021 in Mexia.

We feel passionate about it that we want to give back to our local law enforcement, and help protect them because they protect us at the end of the day, Moore said.  Its just our way of giving back to the community, and our hope and prayer is that the community will see a need for this and open their purses and their hearts and want to donate and help protect our officers.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz discussed his thoughts on how to handle the COVID-19 pandemic and other topics during a Wednesday visit to the Texas A&M Bush School of Government and Public Service.

Cruz toured the school and spoke with students about jobs and economic growth among other matters before meeting with local reporters to answer questions.

When asked what he thought should be done about rapidly rising COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths, Cruz encouraged vaccines but said he does not want to see any type of mandates.

On Wednesday, 25,184 new cases of COVID-19 and 286 virus-related deaths were reported in Texas. The total number of COVID-19 cases reported in the state was more than 3.1 million, according to state figures. State officials said 57,524 Texans have died of COVID-19 as of Wednesday. As of Wednesday, state data shows that about 58% of Texans aged 12 and up have been fully vaccinated.
FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AP)  Zacarias Moussaoui remains the only person ever convicted in a U.S. court in connection with the Sept. 11 attacks. A behind-the-scenes look at the trial Thursday from its lead participants demonstrated how hard it was to bring it to justice.

Rob Spencer, the lead prosecutor on the Moussaoui case, recalled the battles he and others in the Justice Department fought to keep Moussaoui in civilian courts at a time when military prosecutors and others wanted him to face a tribunal at Guantanamo Bay.

When things werent looking rosy for us on the prosecution, we would joke to each other that you could hear the Black Hawk helicopter coming to pick him up and take him to Gitmo, Spencer recalled Thursday during an online panel hosted by federal prosecutors in Virginia. The forum was part of a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, who presided over the case, said there were points during the trial that she and her clerks believed prosecutors wouldn't even clear the first hurdle with the jury and be able to prove that Moussaoui was legally eligible for the death penalty.

And then Moussaoui took the stand, Brinkema said.
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But the liberal arts college in northeast Lincoln has enrolled more than 400 students in its first-year class for the seventh consecutive year.

Roughly one-fourth of the first-year students identify as ethnic minorities, and about 28% come to campus from outside of Nebraska, a spokesman said.

NWU also saw its second largest number of transfer students enroll this year. A total of 65 students transferred to the campus, including 18 students through a transfer agreement with SCC.

Concordia University reported an enrollment drop of 1.6% from last year, bringing its fall headcount to 1,172 students.

The Lutheran-affiliated university in Seward welcomed 366 new students to campus this fall, which is slightly fewer than the 375 who enrolled at Concordia for the first time in 2020, but more than the 339 first-year students in 2019.

Concordia also reports 447 graduate students this fall, including 141 students who are finishing their degrees after Concordia Portland closed its doors in Oregon last year.

Union College, also in Lincoln, as well as Hastings College and Midland University in Fremont, will count their students later this week.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7120 or cdunker@journalstar.com. On Twitter @ChrisDunkerLJS
6-line drop cap: When Tim Wojcik joined Five Points Bank 25 years ago, the priorities of his job were impressed upon him early.

Get out of your chair. Go talk to the customers, Wojcik said, repeating the mantra he heard often. If he was on the phone, make sure he waved to them. If he was free, he was told, get out of your seat and visit with them.

If you take care of your customers, the bank will do well, his senior colleagues told him. Wojcik also was told to get involved in the community.

It wasnt an option. It was a requirement  to be involved, says Wojcik, who is now the Five Points Bank president.

From the beginning, Five Points has believed in going out of your way for the customer, says Vice Chairman Kristen Marshall Maser.

If a customer had to work all week, you come in on Saturday and sign loan papers, Maser said. You give them great rates on their deposits and fair rates on their loans. It was just taking care of the customer.

Her father, Bill Marshall III, and her grandfather both believed in that, she said.
We are adding employees, whether its here or our west plant or our Alda plant, basically were hiring every day, Hornady said. This expansion, per se, just makes us able to have a place for people to be able to work.

The first phase of construction will be a new parking lot space, Hornady said.

The expanded facility will cover the area of the existing parking lot.

Theyre planning on getting that going in September, he said. Certainly, no later than the early part of October.

The prospect of expansion is an exciting one.

It gets your juices flowing, Hornady said, figuring out what youre going to and how youre going to do it.

Dave Taylor, Grand Island Area Economic Development Corp. director, applauded the planned expansion.

Were very excited that theyve chosen to continue their growth in Grand Island, Taylor said. We understand that Hornady and many manufacturers have options of where they would like to expand their businesses, and Hornady has continued to choose Grand Island.

With any growth and expansion comes greater benefits for the Grand Island area.

It brings potential new jobs to town, so there will be more disposable income for employees to use in and around the area, Taylor said. As the workforce changes and growth comes to town, technologies will be much more in demand. And it will potentially create other positions. We refer to them as ancillary jobs.

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DETROIT (AP)  Attorneys are seeking $204,000 in fees for successfully defending Detroit and Michigan from a post-election lawsuit filed by lawyers aligned with former President Donald Trump.

The tally filed Wednesday came two weeks after a judge said the lawyers, including Sidney Powell and L. Lin Wood, would pay a penalty for pursuing the case. The final figure will be determined later.

Trump voters filed a lawsuit in November after Michigan's vote in favor of Joe Biden was certified. They alleged fraud and wanted voting machines impounded.

U.S. District Judge Linda Parker said the lawsuit was a sham.

Individuals may have a right  within certain bounds  to disseminate allegations of fraud unsupported by law or fact in the public sphere, the judge said. But attorneys cannot exploit their privilege and access to the judicial process to do the same.

Detroit was represented by lawyers in private practice. They're seeking $182,000. The Michigan attorney general's office is requesting about $22,000.
The Linehan map, by contrast, would split Douglas County along Interstate 680 and West Dodge Road. Everything north and west of those main thoroughfares would move into the 1st Congressional District, which is dominated by Lincoln. The district is represented by U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry.

The revamped 2nd Congressional District would include the rest of Douglas County, all of Sarpy County and all of Saunders County. The district now is represented by U.S. Rep. Don Bacon.

All three of Nebraska's representatives are Republicans.

The Democratic map evens out the population among the three districts, while the Republican map has slight deviations. Legislative guidelines call for the districts to be as nearly equal as practicable in population.

Linehan previously expressed doubt that a proposal splitting Douglas County would advance very far in the Legislature, though she said she would take a look if somebody would bring me a map that would make sense.

Linehan defended the change, saying that it would keep Sarpy County whole and follow natural boundaries. She pointed out other political districts divide Douglas County several ways, including proposed and historical Supreme Court, University of Nebraska Board of Regents and State Board of Education seats.
Distance Learning

Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative Adopts Assessment Management System

Vermont Virtual Learning Cooperative (VTVLC), which works with public schools in Vermont to provide distance learning, has adopted Instructure's MasteryConnect to aid with student assessment.

MasteryConnect is part of the Instructure Learning Platform, which includes the widely adopted LMS Canvas.

According to Instructure: "With MasteryConnect, teachers can see students mastery of standards in an intuitive, visual way, without using spreadsheets or additional tools. The solution allows educators to document student growth over time, and real-time actionable data on their understanding of whats been taught and assessedat the class, school, or district level. MasteryConnect offers a visual representation at a glance to tell the whole learning story, which can be essential to inform and engage all of the stakeholders who contribute to improving student outcomes."

MasteryConnect integrates with Canvas. VTVLC uses Canvas and Canvas Studio, a video education platform, for students and teachers.

Districts need a data-driven approach to really bring to life what students are able to accomplish in a true online learning environment that is based on national standards, said Jeff Renard, director and, principal and founder of VTVLC, in a prepared statement. Thats a much different experience than the emergency remote learning we saw at the beginning of the pandemic. We want to show beyond a shadow of a doubt that what were doing achieves student proficiency, and we are confident MasteryConnect will help us to accomplish that.

According to the most current information available, VTVLC partners with 46 schools in Vermont for distance learning, 24 of which provide educators who teach courses through VTVLC. The organization provides core academic courses, AP and honors courses, summer recovery, electives, languages and various other courses.

Further information about MasteryConnect can be found on Instructure's site.
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In Other Business

In other business, Fannin County commissioners on Tuesday:

 Reappointed Commissioner Jerry Magness and District Attorney Richard Glaser to the Fannin Central Appraisal District Board of Directors.

 Approved the solicitation of formal bids for culverts in all precincts, to specify that costs will be reduced if the price of steel comes down.

 Approved the second contract renewal term with Appriss Inc. for the Statewide Automated Victim Notification Service.

 Approved an interlocal agreement with City of Bonham for Local Rabies Control Authority, at a cost of $2,000 annually.
Police said this week they have no updates or suspect information to share in the Keeshanna Jackson case. But the community has some hope and is initiating new efforts to curb gun violence.

Jackson, an 18-year-old SIU freshman from Chicago, was killed in a shooting that injured three others at a party on Cherry St. the Sunday after the first week of fall classes at SIU.

Carbondale Police Chief Stan Reno said while there isnt new information to release at this time regarding Jacksons death, he encourages anyone with information to come forward.

Our investigators, with assistance from our law enforcement partners, continue to work tirelessly on this case in order to bring justice to Keeshanna, her family and loved ones, Reno said. In order to stop senseless acts of violence such as this, I again call for an end to gun violence in our community in which a small group of offenders affect the lives of so many others.

Jackson County States Attorney Joe Cervantez said he hopes Jacksons death will help give momentum to programs his office wants to start to help curb gun violence.

Cervantez said cases of shootings and unlawful possessions of weapons are perpetuated by a small group of people.
Vermont, the final state that was part of Chicagos travel advisory, was added to the list Wednesday, putting the entire U.S. under the citys guidance for stemming the transmission of COVID-19.

Besides Illinois, all U.S. states and territories . are now subject to the advisory, under which unvaccinated travelers returning from those areas to Chicago must quarantine for a week, according to a Wednesday press release from the Chicago Department of Public Health. States get on the list by surpassing 15 daily COVID-19 cases per 100,000 residents, but Illinois is not subject to the advisory because the city does not want to restrict intrastate travel.

As a reminder, given the current surge across the country, unvaccinated Chicagoans should not travel right now if at all possible, public health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady said in a statement. Getting vaccinated is the most important thing you can do to decrease your risk for COVID-19.

New Hampshire, Connecticut and Washington, D.C., have fallen below the 15 daily cases benchmark and could be removed from the list as soon as next week.
Sullivan said he was realistic on the issue and that a goal of everyone is to reduce the total number of abortions by means such as increasing foster care opportunities. He said he has two foster children.

Sullivan also said he has been vaccinated for COVID-19 and encourages vaccination, in contrast to Rabine and Bailey.

Science is there to help us as a society to make these decisions and I get very frustrated that politics has infiltrated every aspect of our lives, he said.

Pritzker has made his handling of the pandemic a central theme of his campaign. Sullivan said he opposed Pritzkers decision to close businesses early in the pandemic as well as statewide vaccination or masking mandates, preferring such decisions get made at the local level.

Sullivan said small businesses and livelihoods matter too and good leadership is not just saying lockdown.

Sullivan criticized the governor for approving new legislative redistricting maps drawn by Democrats despite previously pledging he would veto any partisan maps, and also brought up Pritzkers agreement to pay the Cook County treasurer $330,000 in 2018 after getting a property tax reduction for the removal of toilets from an adjacent Chicago mansion he purchased.
LEE: The maps passed in May, but lawmakers had to go back in August to tweak them. Why was this necessary?

CALABRESE: One of my critiques of the Democrats' map is that they made a map for 2019. And the problem is you're supposed to redistrict for 2020, right? So to no surprise, areas that are shrinking in population, they lost more population. And areas that are growing, especially areas that are growing rapidly, they gained a lot more.

I live in Chicago, and if you build a high-rise and 5,000 people move in, that can happen in a year. So that's what happened  the downtown area grew and that wasn't incorporated in the 2019 data. So Lamont Robinson's district was 15% over the mean, (which) is about 108,000 per House district.

What they should have done is they should have made those districts smaller in population anticipating future growth. They should have built the trends into their map.

And now the Republicans have an argument saying that the map that they passed in May is void and they're going to go to court saying that it was a bad map in May, they just can't pass whatever to avoid a (redistricting) commission. They're going to go to court and it adds a degree to uncertainty of whether this map can stand.
ST. CHARLES, Mo.  Thousands of people lined highways, streets and overpasses along westbound Interstate 70 on Wednesday afternoon as more than 800 motorcycles and dozens of law enforcement agencies escorted Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz home to St. Charles County.

Schmitz, a 20-year-old Marine and Wentzville, Missouri, native, was one of the 13 U.S. service members killed late last month in a suicide bombing at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, while working to evacuate U.S. citizens and Afghan refugees as part of the military withdrawal by the U.S. from that country. All 13 have been awarded Purple Hearts.

His remains arrived at St. Louis Lambert International Airport around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, met by his family, law enforcement and the motorcycles of the Patriot Guard. The procession traveled a dozen miles west on Interstate 70 to Baue Funeral Home in St. Charles.

Among those waiting at the overpass near Convention Center Boulevard in St. Charles was a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Jesse Strickland, of Lake Saint Louis.

Strickland, who gathered with a group of veterans committee members from UAW Local 2250, said he personally knew the toll of the 20-year conflict.

I lost a few friends over there, and I know how hard it is for some people, he said.
MOSCOW (AP)  The presidents of Russia and Belarus said Thursday they have made significant progress on integrating their countries economies, including forming common energy and financial markets.

The moves would bolster Belarus as it faces Western sanctions imposed in response to political repression after a disputed presidential election, and to its forced diversion of an airliner carrying a prominent opposition journalist. They would also give Russia a strengthened position in a country that acts as a buffer with NATO members.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko met Thursday for nearly four hours and announced that 28 programs strengthening integration were approved. The programs fall under a 1999 union agreement that calls for close political, economic and military ties but stops short of a full merger.

Russia has buttressed Belarus economy with cheap energy supplies and loans. But ties often have been strained, with Lukashenko scolding Moscow for trying to force him to relinquish control of prized economic assets and eventually abandon his countrys independence.

The programs include establishing a single gas market by the end of 2023.
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$64.3M peanut plant to bring 130 new jobs; planned Orangeburg County facility called A dream come true

LARRY HARDY, T&D Premium Peanut announced Wednesday it will invest $64.3 million in a new Orangeburg County shelling facility. S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster described the announcement as a huge win for the states agribusiness sector. LARRY HARDY, T&D From left, S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster, state Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter and S.C. Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers speak at the Premium Peanut announcement.

A company owned by peanut growers is planning to invest $64.3 million and bring 130 new jobs to Orangeburg County.

Portions of the new peanut shelling facility are expected to be operational by the spring of 2022.

That is an investment made by peanut farmers, Premium Peanut President and CEO Karl Zimmer said Wednesday.

We are very much looking forward to working with growers and peanut farmers in South Carolina and welcoming them as part of Premium Peanut, he said.

Zimmer made the announcement in front of a group of more 100 people at Palmetto Peanut Company in Calhoun County. Palmetto Peanut is the largest among the state's 12 peanut buying stations.

Premium Peanut plans to invest $27.5 million in buildings and $36.8 million in equipment in Orangeburg County over the next five years. The company has not yet said where its new plant will be located.

SC gov: Jumpstart I-26 widening with $360M in virus money SWANSEA  South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster urged state lawmakers Thursday to use $360 million in federal pandemic relief funds to jumpstart the widening of Interstate 26 between Charleston and Columbia.

It will be the state's first peanut shelling plant.

Georgia-based Premium Peanut was founded in 2014. The company says it has one of the newest and largest peanut shelling facilities in the world.

The company began shelling peanuts in 2016 with about 140,000 tons in shelling capacity. The company has grown to a plant capacity of 300,000 tons, which is about 10% of the nation's peanut crop.

The company has also operated an oil mill since 2018.

Premium Peanut now has more than $250 million in revenues.

We have a problem, Zimmer said. We are out of capacity. The market is still growing and the opportunities are still growing.

The company's customers consist of major snack, candy and peanut butter manufacturers domestically, as well as customers in more than 30 countries around the world.

Premium Peanut is owned by over 400 peanut growers throughout Georgia and now South Carolina.

Zimmer said the company has been so successful that investors have made enough to pay back the initial investment and the stock value has doubled in seven years.

The company looked at multiple sites and states for its shelling facility before settling on Orangeburg County.

As part of its arrival in Orangeburg County, Premium Peanut has received a 30-year fee-in-lieu of taxes incentive.

Its also been placed in a multi-county industrial park with Dorchester County. A multi-county industrial park is an incentive mechanism and is not a physical park.

The company also will receive job development tax credits.

S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster, who attended the announcement, said When our people work, people want to invest in us, including Premium Peanut.

That is why they are coming here  because it is about the people.

McMaster presented the company with a brass plate with the state's motto: While I breathe, I hope.

These jobs will have above-average wages, Orangeburg County Administrator Harold Young said. It will also definitely be a benefit to the citizens of Orangeburg County.

We value our farmers and manufacturing in Orangeburg County, Orangeburg County Development Commission Executive Director Gregg Robinson said. This is a perfect marriage and a one-of-a-kind facility in South Carolina.

S.C. Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers said the project means jobs and investment in Orangeburg County, which will add to tax rolls and provide good-paying jobs.

Weathers said the shelling facility is just another opportunity to market one of the state's star crops.

Here is one more marketing opportunity because they will need more acreage of peanuts, Weathers said.

Peanuts are currently purchased at a buying station. The S.C. Department of Agriculture grades the peanuts for the farmer.

You have a dried peanut in storage, Weathers explained. Up until this investment, those peanuts would then be freighted to Virginia, North Carolina or Georgia for shelling and then for manufacturing into peanut products or a whole peanut.

With the addition of the shelling plant, the next level of value will now be in South Carolina, so that is tax revenue," Weathers said.

When agribusiness thrives, all of South Carolina benefits from it, he said.

Weathers noted that 25 years ago, about 10,000 acres of peanuts were planted in the state. In 2002, federal legislation was amended and opened up more peanut opportunities for South Carolina farmers.

In 2017, about 120,000 acres were grown in the state.

Orangeburg County farmer Danny Mixon, a board member of Premium Peanut, has been growing peanuts in Orangeburg County since 1979.

When I brought my peanuts to the buying point and I dumped them, all the money I could make was on how much I made, what price I got and how much I had in it, Mixon said. Now farmers get to share in the profit.

They are not captured by a market, because whatever the market is, they are going to share in it, he said. It makes a big difference for the farmer.

This is a dream come true, Mixon continued. We started a buying point when peanuts were in this area and now there is a tremendous amount of peanuts and three buying points.

Orangeburg County Council Chairman Johnnie Wright said, This is a team.

We all hope to benefit from this event in one way or the other. We are just grateful for the opportunity. Let's keep Orangeburg moving forward, he said.

Premium Peanut Chairman Ken Fountain said coming into South Carolina is a win.

Growers interested in learning more should contact the Palmetto Peanut buying point.

TheTandD.com: Full access for 6 months for just $1 Support local journalism by becoming a member at www.TheTandD.com The editor's limited time offer is full access to all the website has to offer for just $1 for six months. https://go.thetandd.com/june3

Individuals interested in joining Premium Peanut should visit the company's careers webpage at https://secure6.saashr.com/ta/6154256.careers?CareersSearch
Constructed in 1938, the 16,000-square-foot Wilkinson Hall is amid the first phase of renovation and stabilization, which was funded in part by a $50,000 NPS grant received in 2020. In 2018, S.C. State received a $500,000 NPS grant to fund an initial assessment of Wilkinson, as well as the weatherization of the building.

The newest $500,000 NPS grant will go toward HVAC repairs. This project will analyze the current HVAC systems and install new heating and air conditioning if necessary.

South Carolina State University will contribute a non-federal match of $32,745.

Michael Allen, a 1982 S.C. State graduate who retired from the NPS, serves as a historic preservation specialist for the university and is responsible for ensuring that project tasks are completed in a timely manner.

The restoration of Wilkinson Hall is a critical part of the preservation of the historic district of S.C. State University, Allen said. The National Park Services ongoing support of this worthwhile endeavor ensures that Wilkinson Hall will be protected and preserved for students, faculty, administrators and alumni to enjoy.

Wilkinson Hall is amid the first phase of renovation and stabilization resulting from earlier NPS grants.

Since 1995, the NPS has awarded $77.6 million in grants to 66 HBCUs. Congress appropriates funding for the program through the Historic Preservation Fund. The HPF uses revenue from federal oil leases on the Outer Continental Shelf to provide assistance for a broad range of preservation projects.

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A company owned by peanut growers is planning to invest $64.3 million and bring 130 new jobs to Orangeburg County.

Portions of the new peanut shelling facility are expected to be operational by the spring of 2022.

That is an investment made by peanut farmers, Premium Peanut President and CEO Karl Zimmer said Wednesday.

We are very much looking forward to working with growers and peanut farmers in South Carolina and welcoming them as part of Premium Peanut, he said.

Zimmer made the announcement in front of a group of more 100 people at Palmetto Peanut Company in Calhoun County. Palmetto Peanut is the largest among the state's 12 peanut buying stations.

Premium Peanut plans to invest $27.5 million in buildings and $36.8 million in equipment in Orangeburg County over the next five years. The company has not yet said where its new plant will be located.

It will be the state's first peanut shelling plant.

Georgia-based Premium Peanut was founded in 2014. The company says it has one of the newest and largest peanut shelling facilities in the world.
Johnson is running on bringing more minority-owned businesses into a city of about 136,000 which is about 40% African-American. He also wants to hire 90 more police officers, raise salaries for officers and firefighters and reduce gun violence.

But Johnson's proposal to hire a chief heath officer has caused the most contention in the race. Devine and Rickenmann have worked against the idea in their roles on City Council and Baddourah is against it. Benjamin supports it.

Just after Benjamin announced his endorsement. Devine posted her own endorsement video on social media from Vi Lyles, the mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina, who grew up in Columbia.

We need Tameika in Columbia, Lyles said. She's going to work hard and do the right thing for all of us.

Wednesday's endorsement from Benjamin was the latest step in a relationship that has gone on for more than a third of Johnson's life. They first met in a coffee shop in 2009 as Benjamin started to run for mayor.

Johnson, now 33, became an aide for Benjamin after his election before leaving the mayor's office to go to law school.

Benjamin said he met Johnson for coffee three times while trying to decide who to hire for his campaign.
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Western wildfires are spreading farther. Theyre burning hotter. And now theyre climbing higher.

Between 1984 and 2017, high-elevation fires saw a median altitude increase of more than 250 meters, according to a study published this summer by researchers from McGill University, Boise State University and the University of California, Merced.

In the Middle Rockies, which extend into Wyoming, wildfires are advancing even faster. The flames have soared more than 500 meters  nearly one-third of a mile  upslope since 1984.

Fire activity in the mountaintops has accelerated at a faster rate than in the forests below, the study found. Warmer weather caused by climate change is quickening both snowmelt and evaporation in the mountains, drying out dense forests that used to be too wet to burn.

Lower-elevation forest is fire-adapted, said Mojtaba Sadegh, an associate professor in the civil engineering department at Boise State University and one of the authors of the study. There is a distance between conifer trees in the low elevations. In the high elevations, trees are dense, theyre close to one another, theyre intertwined.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  The Republican-dominated commission charged with redrawing the maps of Ohio's legislative districts voted along partisan lines Thursday to use a proposed GOP map as the starting point for three days of public testimony.

The 5-2 vote set up a breakneck schedule that in theory will see the commission approve a final version of the map Sept. 15, although Thursday's meeting made it clear that Democrats and Republicans on the Ohio Redistricting Commission have a lot of work to do before then.

Even Ohio's GOP elections chief, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, said the map introduced Thursday is far from perfect, though he voted for it  calling it a work in progress  to get the revision process started.

I think it needs substantial work, said LaRose, a redistricting commission member.

The commission set hearings Sunday in Dayton, Monday in Cleveland and Tuesday in Columbus before the Sept. 15 vote.

Ohio voters in 2015 and 2018 approved constitutional amendments that created a new process for drawing both state legislative and congressional district maps this year and set up the independent commission.
Sagebrush landscape covers about 15% of the Bighorn National Forest  some 163,000 acres  according to the draft study. The Bighorn plans to treat about 42%  some 68,000 acres  of mountain big sagebrush, the study says.

The Forest Service has been burning an average of 591 acres of sagebrush annually over about the last about 14 years, according to the study. Under the proposed plan, the amount to be thinned would increase to a maximum of 5,100 acres a year.

The plan to control invasive weeds would cover another 5,310 acres a year, 1,000 acres of which would be attacked by aerial spraying. For the invasive weeds, the forest would use the herbicides imazapic and indaziflam.

To kill sagebrush, the Forest Service would use, among other tools, the herbicide tebuthiuron, which is banned in Europe. The goal is to mimic the sagebrush-to-grass/forb historical pre-fire suppression conditions, the study says. Decades of fighting fires allowed the sagebrush fields to become denser, the study implies.
It took only hours for two candidates to drop out of Wyomings House race after Donald Trump endorsed Harriet Hageman in her bid to unseat Rep. Liz Cheney.

Both Bryan Miller and Darin Smith have ended their candidacies, and said they will commit to backing Hageman.

Miller, chairman of the Sheridan County Republican Party, stated his decision in an email obtained by the Star-Tribune, while Smith issued a formal press release a few hours later.

Joey Correnti, chairman of the Carbon County Republican Party, emailed the candidates urging them to leave the race in light of Trumps choice.

In response to Correntis email, Miller said he would be dropping out of the race and endorsing Hageman.

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Absolutely Joey, Miller said. In fact, I plan on officially endorsing her as well ..., Miller continued.

Miller previously ran for Senate against the late senator Mike Enzi and Sen. Cynthia Lummis, securing roughly 10% of the vote in both races.

Despite his role in Wyoming politics, Miller did not appear to be gaining much support in the race for Cheneys seat. He had not filed any campaign finance reports despite announcing his candidacy in January of this year.
Harriet Hageman, a Wyoming property rights attorney and former member of the state GOP leadership, announced today that she will run to unseat Rep. Liz Cheney.

Hageman, who ran for governor in 2018, is expected to receive the coveted endorsement of former President Donald Trump, who remains popular among many Republicans in Wyoming. She is a former Cheney ally, but in a statement Hageman said the lawmaker betrayed her and Wyoming through her public opposition to Trump.

Like many Wyomingites, I supported Liz Cheney when she ran for Congress, Hageman said. But then she betrayed Wyoming, she betrayed this country, and she betrayed me.

Hageman is one of growing field of Republicans who are seeking to defeat Cheney in the 2022 GOP primary. Cheney angered many Wyoming Republicans by voting to impeach the president on a charge of helping to incite the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol by his supporters. Cheney is perhaps the most prominent Republican critic of the former president and his unfounded claims of voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election.
Trump has been alluding to endorsing a challenger for a few months and finally chose Hageman after meeting with her in mid-August. Several other challengers have already announced they would seek Cheney's seat. Several courted Trump's endorsement, but in the end, were unsuccessful.

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"I strongly endorse Republican House of Representatives Candidate Harriet Hageman from Wyoming who is running against warmonger and disloyal Republican, Liz Cheney," Trump said. "Harriet is a fourth-generation daughter of Wyoming, a very successful attorney, and has the support and respect of a truly great U.S. Senator, Wyomings own Cynthia Lummis."

This is not Hageman's first political race. She ran as a Republican candidate for governor in Wyoming in 2018, placing third in a race eventually won by Gov. Mark Gordon.

Hageman is expected to formally announce her House bid Thursday afternoon in Cheyenne.
"I have asked the Attorney General to stand prepared to take all actions to oppose this administrations unconstitutional overreach of executive power. It has no place in America. Not now, and not ever," Gordon said in a statement.
The Northern Arapaho Tribe has mandated that all its employees must be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The tribes business council instituted the vaccine mandate in an order dated Tuesday. A copy of the order was posted Thursday afternoon on the tribes Facebook page.

All tribal employees will be required to receive their first dose by Sept. 17. The mandate applies regardless of whether the workers live on the Wind River Reservation, according to the order.

Employees who refuse to comply could face an unpaid suspension or firing, the order states.

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The order does allow the council to grant exemptions for people who can show they are unable medically to be vaccinated.

The move comes amid a dramatic surge in cases across Wyoming that has coincided with the emergence of the more contagious delta variant. The reservations Wind River Family & Community Health Care reported a 70% increase in cases in the past week, the order notes.

We didnt take this action lightly, the council wrote.
These options will allow us to keep most kids in school, while giving parents, students, and staff choices to make regarding either avoiding quarantine, or managing quarantine, superintendent Dave Barker wrote in a statement Wednesday.

The change mirrors an optional quarantine policy passed last week by the Lovell school district, which made close-contact quarantines optional for students after 60 individuals were quarantined from exposure to the same three people, according to a report from the Wyoming News Exchange.

The shift is inconsistent with Wyoming Department of Health guidance to school districts on what to do if a student or staff member comes in contact with someone positive for COVID-19, department spokesperson Kim Deti said via email.

Quarantine for close contacts of people who tested positive is important for people who do not have obvious symptoms because some people can be infected without symptoms and may still be able to spread the virus, she said. Someone can be infectious in the day or two before they have symptoms. So they can spread the virus before they realize they are ill.

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Between Aug. 24 and Sept. 7, 358 students and 60 staff at Wyoming public schools tested positive for COVID-19, Deti said.
One thing that can be safely said about the Biden Administration is that when you think they could not become even more extreme, they make clear that you underestimate them at your peril. Take President Bidens Executive Order 14008, entitled Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad. Buried on page 9, is Section 216, with the heading, Conserving Our Nations Lands and Waters, the goal of which is to develop a plan to conserve at least 30 percent of our lands and waters by 2030. Known as the 30 x 30 program, the ultimate objective of the land grabbers is to move on to the 50 x 50 program, which, as you probably guessed, would allegedly conserve fifty percent of our lands and waters by 2050.
It is said, You can find a Trini anywhere.

And this may be true, such as on board a US military ship.

Trinidad-born logistics specialist, Officer Nadia Francis, is on board the US Navy vessel Burlington which is currently in T&T on a three-day trip to conduct joint training with the Coast Guard.
The eyes and ears of employees and employers alike are intensely focused on the industrial relations battle between Republic Bank and the Banking, Insurance and General Workers Union (BIGWU) and, by extension, the trade union movement, regarding the banks position: unvaccinated workers are required to pay for Covid-19 tests every two weeks.
The Arizona Corporation Commission is working to clarify its legal authority to allow electric customers to choose their energy providers.

The commission voted Wednesday to draft a letter to seek a legal opinion from Attorney General Mark Brnovich on its authority to open the states retail power markets to competitive providers, especially in light of a 2020 Arizona Supreme Court decision that supporters say requires a competitive electric market in the state.

The commission also wants the attorney general to consider a 1998 state law requiring competition, the state constitution, and a 2004 appellate court decision that essentially nullified the states competition rules.

It might be time to get clarity regarding these questions before we proceed with any use of staff time or resources, and this is a way we can receive that clarity, Commission Chairwoman Lea Marquez Peterson said at an open staff meeting.

Commissioner Justin Olson was the sole vote against drafting the letter.
PHOENIX  Secretary of State Katie Hobbs is proposing a change to when votes can be counted, but the states GOP chief charges its an end-run around a U.S. Supreme Court ruling.

Hobbs is proposing to require county officials to count votes for certain offices even if the voter shows up at the wrong precinct. Votes for president and statewide offices would be tallied despite being cast at the wrong polling location.

That comes less than three months after the high court rejected a bid by the Democratic National Committee to force the state to count such out-of-precinct votes. The majority concluded there is nothing legally wrong with the current practice of discarding such ballots.

But the ruling does not preclude Hobbs from changing the rules, according to Bo Dul, the general counsel for her office.

Theres nothing in statute that requires these ballots be rejected, she told Capitol Media Services. What there is, Dul said, is a provision in the current Election Procedures Manual that only ballots cast in the correct polling place be counted.

It was that policy, effectively, that the Democrats unsuccessfully asked the Supreme Court to declare unconstitutional, based on claims that is more likely to affect minority voters.
A man and his father have been arrested in connection with the death of a woman and are accused of trying to hide her body by wrapping her in a plastic sheet and leaving her near railroad tracks.

Tucson police found Rebecca Felix Soto, 38, near railroad tracks in the area of East Ajo Way and South Sixth Avenue with gunshot wounds, around 1 a.m. Sunday. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to a Pima County Justice Court interim report, police learned during their investigation that Soto had been in an argument with a man she knew, Anthony Salcido Jr., 31.

Salcidos father, Anthony Salcido Sr., 53, told investigators that when he went into a nearby trailer to get his laptop he heard two gunshots.

When Salcido Sr. went to see what happened, he saw his son outside the residence saying Dad and Soto on the ground in a pool of her own blood, with two gunshot wounds to the head, the report said.

The father and son then reportedly covered Sotos body with a sheet, loaded her in a wheelbarrow and headed for train tracks to the east of the neighborhood.
He crafted a measure to create a new crime of violent or disorderly assembly. It would have made it a felony if a person, acting with seven or more others, caused injury or property damage while engaging in a riot or an unlawful assembly, both already existing crimes.

Violation would have been a Class 6 felony, which carries a presumptive sentence of a year in state prison.

Roberts told Capitol Media Services at the time that he supports the First Amendment right to march and assemble. But he said protests havent always remained within those confines.

Its become the norm, any time something happens where people are upset, they think its OK to go out and destroy property and things of that nature, assault police officers and this kind of stuff, said Roberts, a former constable.

He caused some alarm when he stated the measure was designed, at least in part, to convince people to stay away from some protests.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  An Alabama man charged with bringing 11 Molotov cocktails and other weapons to Washington on the day of the U.S. Capitol riot has reached a plea agreement with prosecutors, according to a court filing.

The Wednesday filing from federal prosecutors did not provide details of the agreement with Lonnie Coffman of Falkville, Alabama. Coffman, 71, was charged with multiple firearms charges, including possession of unregistered firearms and possession of a large-capacity ammunition feeding device.

A hearing in the case is scheduled for Sept. 29. Manuel J. Retureta, an attorney for Coffman, declined to comment on the plea agreement.

Coffman is one of hundreds of people arrested after rioters supporting then-President Donald Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 and disrupted the certification of President Joe Bidens election win.

Police that day found Coffmans truck in Washington packed with 11 mason jars containing a flammable liquid; several loaded guns; a crossbow with bolts; several machetes; camouflage smoke devices and a stun gun, according to prosecutors.
The group hasnt yet calculated the impact of the virus globally. But the Center for Exhibition Industry Research, which studies the economic impact of U.S. business-to-business trade shows, said those events alone were expected to generate $105 billion in direct and indirect spending in 2020. Instead, that plunged to $24 billion. CEIR doesn't expect a return to growth for the industry until 2023.

Chicagos McCormick Place, the largest convention center in the U.S., laid off 90% of its 2,800 workers last year after 234 events were canceled, said Larita Clark, the CEO of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority. One of the complexs two hotels, the Marriott Marquis Chicago, was temporarily closed; the other, the Hyatt Regency Chicago, saw occupancy drop as low as 10%.

The economic losses extend far beyond exhibition complexes. Fern, a 112-year-old Cincinnati company, builds exhibits and other infrastructure for 1,400 events in a normal year. But for most of last year and the beginning of this year, its revenue dropped well over 90%, said Aaron Bludworth, Ferns president and CEO.

This was much more brutal than anything I have experienced in my career, Bludworth said.
CAIRO, Ga. (AP)  Jury selection in the death penalty trial of a Georgia inmate charged with killing two prison guards was halted Thursday because an attorney in the case is being tested for the coronavirus.

Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills said a prosecutor in the trial of Donnie Russell Rowe is awaiting results of a COVID-19 test.

Rowe is charged with murder in the slayings of Sgts. Christopher Monica and Curtis Billue, corrections officers at Baldwin State Prison who were shot with their own guns as inmates escaped a prison bus in June 2017.

Jury selection in the case began last week. If the prosecutor's coronavirus test comes back negative, Sills said, proceedings will resume Tuesday. He told WGXA-TV that a positive test result would delay things until Sept. 27.

Prosecutors say Rowe and another inmate, Ricky Dubose, killed the guards while escaping from a prison transfer bus southeast of Atlanta. They were arrested in Tennessee a few days later. Dubose also faces the death penalty and will be tried separately.
It's important, Gardner says, that students hear about those who died, the aftermath, related deaths that came later, and the lessons learned.

We made that pledge to never forget, he says.

Corey Winchester, a high school history teacher in Evanston, Illinois, tries to teach about Sept. 11 not as just a moment in time but something that were still interacting with and a lesson about perspectives. That means he might make connections to it while teaching about internment of Japanese-Americans or the Vietnam War, he says.

For some teachers, incorporating personal stories helps drive home the wide impact of 9/11. Liz Prince is having her fifth graders at DeSoto Central Elementary school in Southaven, Mississippi, record an interview with someone they know about a Sept. 11 experience, then share it with classmates. She also ordered books to help with age-appropriate explanations about places that were targeted and people who died.

But Prince says shes not ready to discuss Afghanistan, which she considers too political for her classroom.
Opponents of the provision  somewhat similar to one that passed in Georgia  say it would create another opportunity for voters to make minor mistakes that could result in ballots being thrown out.

The new law partially address that concern. Voters who submit ballots before Election Day will be notified of problems and allowed to go to an elections office to fix some issues that can disqualify the vote, such as a mismatched signature, while some qualifying voters may be able to correct mistakes online.

CRIMINAL PENALTIES

The Texas law, like others approved or proposed this year, creates or expands several criminal violations involving elections, some of which are broadly defined and could ensnare voters or those who help them. Republicans contend they're necessary to prevent fraud or improper influence on voters. Democrats note, accurately, that voter fraud is exceedingly rare. The state's Republican attorney general dedicated millions of dollars to voter fraud investigations since last year but has only turned up a handful of cases in a state where more than 11 million people voted in November.
The Taliban seek international legitimacy and support, Blinken told reporters. Any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned, and we heard that across the board, from everyone participating in today's session.

U.S. engagement with the Taliban and a new government will be for purposes of advancing the national interest and those of partners, and in ways that are fully consistent with our laws, he added.

Blinken and German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas pressed demands for the Taliban to allow Afghans to travel freely and to respect their basic rights, including women's. They also pushed the Taliban to ensure that Afghanistan is not used to launch attacks, refrain from reprisal attacks and allow humanitarian access.

Blinken said the U.S. is still assessing the announcement and noted that the Taliban has billed it as a caretaker Cabinet. We will judge it, and them, by its actions," he said.

Maas said the make-up so far of the new government is not the signal for more international cooperation.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey's defense minister reiterated on Thursday that his country will never accept any Greek move to extend its territorial waters in the Aegean sea, dismissing any possible effort by Athens as empty dreams.

Speaking at a symposium in Istanbul addressing Turkeys troubled ties with Greece, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar also said Turkey was determined to press ahead with efforts to search for energy in the eastern Mediterranean in areas where its believes Ankara and Turkish Cypriots have rights.

Neighbors and fellow NATO members Greece and Turkey have long been at odds over a series of disputes, including territorial rights in the Aegean Sea and over energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean. Tensions flared last year over exploratory drilling rights in areas in the Mediterranean where Greece and Cyprus claim as their own exclusive economic zone.

Greece also says it maintains its right to extend its territorial waters from the current six to 12 nautical miles around its Aegean islands. Turkey has long said it would consider the move  which would block its own access to the Aegean  as a cause for war. In January, Greek parliament voted to extend its waters along its western coastline, on the other side of the country, to 12 miles.
The anti-vaxers are now using this slogan to give them the right to do what they want with their own bodies and avoid vaccination. Haven't we 
Someone was pounding on the bedroom door of our budget-priced hotel in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul. "Come quick. Ya gotta see what's on the TV downstairs."

My wife Dorothy and I joined a group of 10 or 12 huddled around the only TV in the hotel. We were with our traveling companions George and Earlene Ridge. We sat in stunned silence with tears in our eyes as the Twin Towers burned and collapsed.

Finally in the late afternoon we were able to go out for fresh air in the narrow winding streets of the Sultanahmet. Street vendors asked, "Are you American? We are so sad for what happened in New York. Allah maaka. May Allah be with you."

The next morning we were out on the streets getting ready to start our gulet (a two masted sailing boat) trip up the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. The vendors again asked if we were American. Again they expressed their sympathy but added, "Remember we are still selling rugs."

For several years George Ridge, University of Arizona professor of journalism, and I, retired M.D. with a camera, had a monthly travel story in the Travel Section of the Arizona Daily Star. The Travel Section was cancelled because no one would be doing much traveling after this sneak attack on the United States of America.

 Hal Tretbar
We have worked with Germany-based Pro Animale and are quite aware of the fate of some of the beautiful Galgo dogs you rescue (per information in your email). According to Pro Animale, when these Spanish hunting dogs are worn out, some of them are left to die from suffocation or strangulation on a short chain. I salute you for your good work in saving such animals  but must also lift my leg at your unfounded remark that I must have the AKC in my back pocket. On that score, you are in need of some education. Check out my article Recovering Canine Health at drfoxonehealth.com.

In some encouraging news on this topic, my wife and I were heartened to read that some dogs have been rescued from a shelter in Kabul, Afghanistan and are now safe here in Minnesota (Star Tribune, Aug. 15).

USDA NOW RESTRICTS DOG IMPORTS

The USDAs Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service placed restrictions, effective immediately, on importing dogs from anywhere African swine fever virus is known or believed to be present. Dogs must be microchipped prior to entry and bathed within two calendar days of arrival, and bedding must meet certain standards and be disposed of at the point of entry. The Healthy Dog Importation Act, a bill championed by the American Veterinary Medicine Association, was introduced in the Senate on Aug. 4 by senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) in an effort to build momentum for better standards related to dog importation. (Full story: Farm Journals Pork, Aug. 6)

Send all mail to animaldocfox@gmail.com or to Dr. Michael Fox in care of Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
The Oklahoma Attorney Generals Office is appealing a temporary injunction that is now blocking the enforcement of the states new law against school mask mandates.

The appeal was filed Thursday morning, according to Alex Gerszewski, spokesman for the AGs Office.

On Wednesday, an Oklahoma County judge signed a written order that gives school districts the ability to mandate face coverings with one caveat  that they offer the same exemptions required by law for mandatory school vaccines.

The State of Oklahoma and Governor Kevin Stitt are enjoined from enforcing certain sections of SB658 enacted in 2021 against any board of education of a public school district that has exemptions as described herein, reads the order just signed by District Judge Natalie Mai.

Any mask mandate or requirement for students in a K-12 public school must include the same exemptions that are present in (the state vaccine statute citation).

Under state law, parents and legal guardians may claim an exemption from immunizations on medical, religious or personal grounds.
Despite shouts of objection from audience members, Tahlequah Public Schools Board of Education voted unanimously at a special meeting Wednesday evening to implement a mask mandate.

Starting Monday, students and staff will be required to wear masks while on campus. Opt-out request forms will be available for families starting Monday.

According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health, there are 718 active cases of COVID-19 in Cherokee County, including 522 in Tahlequah.

Since school started four weeks ago, Tahlequah Public Schools has had 245 confirmed cases of COVID-19 among its staff and students, including two of school board Vice President Chrissi Nimmos three children.

We spent 17 months trying to keep my children from getting COVID-19, she said. We kept them virtual (for the 2020-21 school year). We wore masks. We limited our social activities. After seven days of schools, two of my three children had COVID-19. Thankfully, they are fine and their symptoms were mild.

However, I dont know a single person around here at this point who doesnt know someone who has been hospitalized or died from this.
OHA President Patti Davis said the emergency rules are very helpful with expanding licensed bed space flexibility, but she noted that they dont address the nursing shortage like the previous emergency order did.

We dont have everything back on the nursing side that we had last time, Davis said. There are things that we had that were broader than just hospital licensure that were in the surge before that we dont have.

Hospitals across Oklahoma are coping with the ongoing surge in varying ways that are becoming more visible to the public outside of their facilities.

Hillcrest HealthCare System said in a statement that increased COVID-19 rates and deaths in the community required an expansion of resources and capacity.

Hillcrest Hospital South brought in one freezer trailer in August that can hold up to seven bodies  the same trailer it used in December and January. The hospitals morgue can hold two, and the trailer is in use.

Hospitals work closely with funeral homes to ensure patients and families are taken care of, Hillcrests statement says. In this event, that includes expanding the size of our morgue as a service to our partners during this latest large surge.
By contrast, the State Health Department paints a better picture, showing 57 to 97 beds available in the state this week. Thats in conflict with hospital officials saying they are maxed out.

State Health Commissioner Lance Frye says there appears to be a disconnect internally and that he is not sure which set of data is more accurate.

Frye acknowledged that the hospitals are stressed but that the state has a different view: We feel like we have capacity in our state.

So, who are Oklahomans to believe?

The reality is that when people go to hospitals, there may not be a place for them.

That has been backed up by reporting across the state with hospital administrators, doctors, nurses and patients. Their messages and stories are similar and persistent.

Hospitals have moved into public outreach to increase vaccinations to help alleviate the crisis.

This is particularly important, with other front-line workers such as police officers, teachers and city employees still showing hesitancy for vaccinations and masks.
Thirteen American service members and 169 Afghan nationals were killed in the chaos of ending a war gone on too long.

We are horror struck at the evil that perpetrates such acts and the indescribable sorrow that visits their families.

In too many cases, the Afghans essential to our work were losing their lives while waiting for a safe exit.

I can offer only empathy and prayers for those who died and those who grieve.

On the first day of the Iraq war, I awoke with these distinct words coming clearly to me. I call it "A Mother's Prayer."

I have used it for 19 years for my personal devotions. It was read at our sons funeral.

I share this divinely inspired prayer with those who are grieved by the current situation our nation and Afghanistan faces.

"God of wrath and power, protect our sons and daughters sent into battle by men drunk on hubris and guile. As bombs rain around them, send them to the quiet places of the soul, where your indwelling spirit whispers ways of reconciliation.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has proposed classifying airports into three groups based on the level of social distancing in each locality as it prepares to resume domestic routes amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

CAAV general director Dinh Viet Thang sent a report on the classification plan to the Ministry of Transport, the Vietnamese aviation governing body announced on Wednesday.

The CAAV previously asked airlines to suspend regular domestic routes since July due to the worsening pandemic in the country.

On August 30, the CAAVs request was followed up with an order asking carriers to suspend ticket sales for domestic flights and refund passengers for tickets issued prior to July 21.

Only cargo flights and some passenger flights  primarily for officers performing public duties, people serving the fight against COVID-19, and those who have got approval from local authorities to travel  are currently operating.

There are also flights carrying citizens from southern provinces, currently hit hard by the coronavirus, to their hometowns in the north-central region.

In its plan to resume domestic routes, the CAAV has proposed dividing Vietnams 22 airports into three groups.

Group A includes airports in cities and provinces which are currently not implementing social distancing measures under the prime ministers Directive No. 16, which is equivalent to a complete lockdown order.

Group B consists of airports in cities and provinces partly under social distancing according to Directive No. 16.

Airports in Group C are located in cities and provinces fully under social distancing in accordance with the directive.

There will be no cap on passengers on flights from A to A, B or C airports, though the passengers are required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours of their flights.

Flights from B to A, B or C airports and from C to A or B airports will carry passengers performing public duties and COVID-19 prevention forces, with the passengers required to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours of their flights.

Other passengers must present negative testing results within the last 72 hours and satisfy one of the following requirements: having certificates proving their completion of quarantine and being transported by quarantine units to the airports in specialized vehicles, having two vaccine shots, or holding certificates of recovery from COVID-19 no longer than 12 months from departure time.

Flights from C to C airports will carry public servants, COVID-19 prevention personnel, and people who have got approval from local authorities to travel, provided that they have negative testing results taken in the previous 72 hours.

Airlines are only allowed to sell tickets for flights with departure dates within four weeks from the date the plan is approved by the Ministry of Transport, the CAAV noted.

The aviation authority will review the outcome of the plan after four weeks before implementing its second phase, in which the classification of airports is expected to remain the same.

The only difference is that passengers can use a confirmation of their stay in an area that does not apply social distancing under Directive No. 16 at least 14 days before the departure time, apart from the medical and epidemiological documents as in the first phase.

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In the hope of adding value to his hometowns pride, vast bamboo forests, Nguyen Le Hoang Nhan from the Central Highlands province of Lam Dong is transforming bamboo and rattan into fine-quality household and decorative items.

Convinced that the use of bamboo should not be limited to fertilizing asparagus, the 23-year-old always yearned to do something for his hometown, known for its abundant supply of bamboo.

With that belief in mind and an inclination nurtured since his university years to start a business, Nhan created his company producing household and decorative items from bamboo as replacements for plastic products.

Mission begins

Majoring in law at Da Lat University, located in the namesake city which is the capital of Lam Dong Province, Nhan observed with sadness his fellowmen harvest bamboo all year round for asparagus fertilizer.

During his third year in college, he began to map out his unconventional route to tap into the plentiful bamboo and rattan reserves his hometown is blessed with.

Vietnam is one of the few countries in the world to be endowed with such an abundant resource.

The young man emphasized utilizing resources from his own hometown in the business will benefit his fellow countrymen as well.

He invested his savings from the money he earned from odd jobs during his college years, ready to get his Da Lat Bamboo company through its launch stage.

While producing bamboo-based items in what is known as one of the countrys biggest reserves and also a tourist hub in the Central Highlands seems like a natural move, Nhans journey to get the business off the ground was not without its challenges.

Without a background in business, the daring man signed up for courses and taught himself how to really understand bamboo.

The initial time was the hardest. Yet he pressed forward even with problems in procuring supply, carrying out the production process on a trial-and-error basis, and commercializing his products.

What I found most challenging is how to really understand bamboo, that is, if each of them is old enough and what they are fittest for, Nhan shared.

The budding entrepreneur faced another challenge: machinery and equipment needed for bamboo production.

As machinery meeting his requirements was not available, he worked with his team to build their own, a task that he said is highly time-consuming.

His hard work later bore fruit, as his debut products, ranging from bamboo straws, drinking vessels, toothbrushes with bamboo handles to containers in which shan tuyet tea, a specialty generally grown by ethnic minority groups in the north of Vietnam, is brewed for its unique aroma, have found a market.

As his business acumen garnered through his own research and networking with veteran entrepreneurs grew, slowly but surely, his business began to thrive.

After overcoming numerous obstacles, Nhan has carved out a successful career for himself with a 1,500-square-meter factory, where he employs about 20 seasonal workers from around town.

His factory churns out approximately 50,000 bamboo straws and 1,000-3,000 other products each month and sells them to outlets.

The items, which come in different designs, sizes and uses, are priced from some dozens of dong to hundreds of dong (VND100,000 = US$4.38) apiece.

His project generates a total monthly revenue of VND300 million ($13,140) to VND500 million ($21,900).

According to Nhan, the process of creating a bamboo-based item includes several phases which focus on ensuring each pieces esthetic and durability without detracting from the mediums natural features.

Each day, the team at Nhans factory selects bamboo plants and dries them before boiling them in salted solutions, processing them into desired shapes, and sterilizing them.

Nhan added that to enhance product durability, his team only picks plants that are two years old or more.

In his attempt to produce the premium products, he has put a lot of effort into material processing, making sure they can maintain their natural color without the use of chemicals.

The entrepreneur said he steams the products in natural essential oils to keep them free of fungi.

He places strong emphasis on green and sustainable development, though his products are more expensive than their plastic counterparts, which means greater difficulty in reaching more customers.

Apart from staying clear from chemicals, his team makes it a point to harvest bamboo and rattan in season while encouraging local farmers to grow more to sustain a steady supply and preserve what they have.

Nhan revealed he is currently targeting products from areca sheath as his next venture.

He has a message for young people like him.

I really hope our project will get locals to work together and protect the environment, Nhan said.

The responsibility rests on each of us, particularly the young.

Like many businesses, Nhans workshop has been hit quite hard by the COVID-19 pandemic regarding product distribution.

The young man turns this quiet time into a good opportunity to conduct research into new products while having his eyes set on European markets and working to meet their stringent requirements to prepare for export once the latest wave, which began in late April, is finally under control.

Nhans products have been warmly embraced by customers.

Many pieces are unique and embody high creativity, said Ho Kieu Oanh, one of his customers, adding she often chooses toothbrushes with bamboo handles which are replaced every three and four months.

The products are good for both human health and the environment, Oanh noted, adding children can make their own drawings on the toothbrushes.

I want to encourage the young mans green startup initiative.

Bringing Vietnamese bamboo to the world

Nhan inked a deal to export his environment-friendly products to Australia in 2019.

About two shipping containers of such products have made their way to that market since.

The aspiring entrepreneur has gone over the track and fine-tuned his products in adherence to stringent requirements set by Japanese and German importers and brought his pieces to these two countries, where they are making quite a splash among environmentally-conscious buyers.

He also has his gaze fixed further.

In the future, I want to showcase more of my items to international customers who will instantly think of Vietnam when they get their hands on the pieces, Nhan shared.

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Singapore is ramping up COVID-19 testing and has warned it would not rule out reimposing tighter curbs as infections rise - moves some experts see as too cautious for the vaccine frontrunner that is preparing to live with the virus as an endemic disease.

Strict surveillance and quarantine have been key to its success in dealing with the pandemic, but Singapore has reported a sharp rise in cases to one-year highs this week.

Spooked by the fast pace of transmission, the government has said it would hold off on reopening measures and urged people to reduce social activities, sparking a debate among experts on if Singapore could "be bolder" given it has one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.

"There will necessarily have to be some trial and error but I personally think Singapore's vaccination rate now allows us to be bolder with moving forward," said Ooi Eng Eong, an infectious diseases expert at the Duke-NUS Medical School.

Some experts even question the need for rigorous testing in a country where 81% of the 5.7 million population are fully vaccinated and many of the new positive cases are asymptomatic.

With so many people vaccinated, "it's not obvious that we need to know the infection status of asymptomatic contacts", said Alex Cook, an infectious disease modelling expert at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Singapore has mandated routine testing for workers in additional "high risk" settings, started distributing antigen rapid test kits to households and urged everyone to self test even if they are fully vaccinated.

The country recorded 347 new local cases on Wednesday, nearly triple the infections from two weeks ago. It has reported 56 deaths so far and only six people are in intensive care.

Office workers spend their lunch breaks at the central business district amid the COVID-19 outbreak in Singapore, September 8, 2021. Photo: Reuters

More curbs a last resort

With infections doubling each week due to the highly contagious Delta variant, the government predicts as many as 2,000 daily cases in a month at the current trajectory.

However, more than 90% of new cases are either asymptomatic or with very mild symptoms.

Singapore's approach contrasts with other vaccination frontrunners such as Israel, the United States and England that eased restrictions as they inoculated a large portion of their population and suffered a surge in cases and hospitalizations.

"We know from the experience of other countries, that when cases rise so sharply, there will be many more ICU cases and also people succumbing to the virus," said Lawrence Wong, Singapore's finance minister and the co-chair of its coronavirus task force.

While more curbs would be the last resort, he cautioned the government may have no choice if severe cases rise sharply.

The government has said it can open as many as 1,000 ICU beds for COVID-19 patients.

On Wednesday, the health ministry said it was revamping its COVID-19 daily reports to closely track severe illnesses and stop providing data on linked and unlinked cases.

Office workers spend their lunch breaks at the central business district during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in Singapore September 8, 2021. Photo: Reuters

COVID-19 measures

To slow transmission, Singapore is testing, contact tracing and ring fencing cases even more aggressively.

The government has asked companies to put in place a "snap 14-day work-from-home regime" in case of a positive case.

It is hospitalising many patients as a precaution, even though they have no or mild symptoms.

Those who are clinically well but still test positive are being isolated at facilities. The government has previously said it plans to pilot home isolation for those fully vaccinated.

However, NUS's Cook pointed out that case isolation, especially in facilities, is not aligned with the stated intent to move to an endemic state like with dengue or influenza.

"Despite hitting a vaccine coverage of over 80% ... and having very low numbers of severe cases as a result, (Singaporeans) are now being told that they need to go back to more restrictions again," he said. "There is a risk that such ambiguity could damage adherence to guidance in future."
Check out the news you should not miss today:

Politics

 National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue and a high-ranking delegation on Wednesday morning (local time) arrived in Brussels to begin their two-day working visit to the European Parliament and Belgium, the Vietnam News Agency reported the same day.

Society

 Ho Chi Minh City has allowed dining businesses meeting safety regulations to resume takeout service only from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day.

 Local authorities in Binh Duong Province on Wednesday imposed a fine of VND7.5 million (US$330) on T.V.H., a COVID-19 patient who is being quarantined for treatment at a facility in Hiep An Ward, as he had created a fake Zalo account named 'Doctor Long' and sent a medical order to discharge all the patients at the venue.

 The Central Highlands province of Lam Dong has re-opened a number of local services including intraprovincial tourism, supermarkets and markets, barbershops, beauty parlors, and restaurants which must not serve more than 50 percent of their normal capacity at one time since 5:00 pm on Wednesday.

 The north-central city of Thanh Hoa will continue following social distancing measures under the prime minister's Directive No. 16 from now to September 15 to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Business

 Bandotraicayvietnam.com, a project meant to systematize growing area data and build professional images for fruit trees in Vietnam, is being introduced at the 38th Macfrut Fruit Fair (Macfrut Fair 2021) in Rimini, Italy from September 7 to 9.

 The Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade) and Alibaba.com, the global business-to-business e-commerce platform of Alibaba Group, have jointly launched a program to support Vietnamese small- and medium-sized enterprises in overcoming COVID-19, the Vietnam News Agency reported on Wednesday.

Lifestyle

 'Fishing in Mangrove Forest,' a photo taken by Vietnamese photographer Pham Trung Huy which captures a fisherman in a mangrove forest in the lagoon of Tam Giang in the central province of Thua Thien - Hue, has recently won first prize at the 2021 Drone Photo Awards People category.

World news

 At least 10 people were killed when a fire broke out in a makeshift hospital for COVID-19 patients in the North Macedonian town of Tetovo, the country's health minister said on Wednesday, Reuters report.
Ho Chi Minh City police have arrested four men who used a vehicle with travel priority during the COVID-19 pandemic to transport nearly 100 kilograms of drugs disguised as fish paste baskets from Cambodia to Vietnam.

The municipal police on Wednesday said they had detained four drug traffickers aged 20 to 46 during recent raids on many locations in District 12, Binh Chanh District, and Cu Chi District.

Police officers have seized 92 bricks of heroin, nearly 60 kilograms of synthetic drugs, and 20,000 ecstasy pills.

These drugs were hidden in four bamboo baskets, the top of each of which was covered with fish paste as camouflage.

The total weight of the drugs is more than 99.6 kilograms, police said.

These men transported the drugs in a car that had been given a 'green card,' a certificate of travel priority issued by transport authorities for vehicles used to carry essential items during the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam.

This supplied image shows the bamboo baskets that contained nearly 100 kilograms of drugs camouflaged with fish paste on the top.

In May, police arrested two Taiwanese and seized a total of 270 kilograms of ketamine, including 90 kilograms concealed in pig innards, also transported from Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City by their transnational drug trafficking ring.

One month earlier, police officers had detained three drug dealers and confiscated 49 bricks of heroin, 13 kilograms of methamphetamine, eight kilograms of ketamine, 11,000 pills of synthetic drugs, 1,000 jars of liquid narcotics, and 5,000 packs of powder drugs, most of which were transported from Cambodia.

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The Vietnamese Ministry of Health will allocate one million doses of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine to Hanoi, the municipal Center for Disease Controls deputy director Truong Quang Viet said on Thursday morning.

We have drawn up a plan to receive the Sinopharm vaccine doses from the Ministry of Health, Viet said.

Currently, the vaccine shipment has yet to arrive at a designated warehouse in Hanoi, according to the deputy director.

Therefore, the Hanoi Center for Disease Control has prepared no specific vaccination using the batch, which will help increase the citys total vaccine allocation to 4.3 million doses.

Besides, central-level institutes and units in the capital city have just been given another one million shots of COVID-19 vaccine.

City authorities administered more than 215,000 vaccine doses on Wednesday, according to the municipal Department of Health.

The total number of jabs given out in the city has topped 2.8 million, more than 2.5 million of which are first doses and over 300,000 are second.

About 57 percent of the capital's adults have been inoculated.

Central-level institutes and units in the capital have also used up their allocated vaccines.

Hanoi has recorded 3,663 COVID-19 patients, including 1,578 cases detected in the community and 2,085 others found in zoned-off areas, since April 27 when a new wave of infections hit Vietnam.

Nationwide, more than 23.5 million doses have been administered since inoculation was rolled out in the country on March 8, with over 3.7 million people fully vaccinated.

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Ho Chi Minh City has allowed food and drink service providers to operate again, only offering takeout, after around two months of suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a dispatch issued on Tuesday afternoon, the municipal Peoples Committee permitted caterers to sell takeaways to customers from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day starting Wednesday.

Also allowed to operate for such 12 hours per day are postal and telecommunications service providers, office informatics equipment establishments, and stationers.

These businesses had been banned since July 9.

Catering service providers must register their resumption with local authorities to obtain travel passes for their relevant staff, who are required to have got at least one coronavirus vaccine shot and to be tested for COVID-19 every two days.

They must also operate under the 'three-on-the-spot' model in compliance with all strict epidemic prevention measures, meaning employers must arrange for their staff to work, have meals, and rest at the workplace only.

Supermarkets, convenience stores, food shops, and delivery workers are allowed to re-operate for a longer duration, from 6:00 am to 9:00 pm every day, within the districts where they are located, the dispatch said.

Also on the resumption list are producers and traders of herbal materials, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment and supplies.

The administration of District 7 and Cu Chi District are required to prepare their pilot plans for locals to go to the market once every week and submit them to the municipal authorities for consideration by Saturday, according to the dispatch.

Local authorities have set up specific points for commodity gathering and transit at the largest wholesale markets of Binh Dien and Hoc Mon, which have been shut down since July 6 and June 28, respectively.

On July 13, a similar point was set up at the Thu Duc wholesale market.

The city has documented 273,674 COVID-19 cases including 11,206 deaths since the pandemic hit Vietnam in early 2020, topping the country in both infections and the death toll, the Ministry of Health reported on Wednesday evening.

Nationwide, there have been 563,676 coronavirus patients with 325,647 recoveries and 14,135 fatalities.

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Authorities in southern Vietnams Binh Duong Province on Wednesday fined a man being treated at a COVID-19 quarantine facility for impersonating a doctor and telling inpatients to go home.

T.V.H., a COVID-19 patient being treated at a concentrated quarantine center at Han Thuyen Elementary School in Thu Dau Mot City, was slapped with a VND7.5 million fine (US$330) for posing as other organizations and individuals, and spreading false and untruthful information that infringes upon the lawful rights and interests of other organizations and individuals.

Last Sunday, H. created an account named 'Dr. Long' on Zalo, a Vietnamese chat app, and sent a message to a chat group of inpatients at Han Thuyen Elementary School which read, List of patients to be discharged on September 5. All of you are allowed to go home.

He then sent a follow-up message which read, Everyone, please pack your things neatly and gather downstairs at 8:30 am tomorrow.

Upon being alerted to the situation, the management board of the quarantine center reported the case to local police and the provincial Department of Information and Communications.

During a working session with functional forces on Wednesday, H. admitted to the violations and promised not to repeat his actions.

Binh Duong is still one of Vietnams hardest-hit provinces in terms of COVID-19 cases.

An additional 3,172 infections were recorded in the locality on Wednesday, bringing the total number of community cases to 141,765, accounting for about 5.5 percent of the total population.

Tens of thousands of patients are still in treatment and isolation facilities, while over 14,700 cases are awaiting results from real-time RT-PCR testing.

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Vietnams Ministry of Health confirmed 12,420 coronavirus infections nationwide on Thursday, alongside 12,523 recovered patients and 345 fatalities.

Thirty-six provinces and cities recorded 12,399 local cases whereas the nation reported 21 separate imported infections, the health ministry said.

The ministry had logged 12,663 domestically-infected patients on Wednesday.

Over 6,000 of the new domestic cases were detected in the community, with the remaining found in sectioned-off areas or centralized quarantine facilities.

Ho Chi Minh City registered 5,549 local infections, Binh Duong Province 4,531, Dong Nai Province 880, Long An Province 412, Tay Ninh Province 161, Kien Giang Province 135, Tien Giang Province 115, Hanoi 35, and Da Nang 35.

Vietnam has documented 571,745 community transmissions in 62 out of its 63 provinces and cities since the fourth  and worst  virus wave emerged in the country on April 27.

Ho Chi Minh City tops the caseload with 278,703 patients, followed by Binh Duong Province with 146,296, Dong Nai Province with 32,059, Long An Province with 27,216, Tien Giang Province with 11,274, Dong Thap Province with 7,691, Khanh Hoa Province with 7,139, Da Nang with 4,750, Hanoi with 3,928, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province with 3,796.

By comparison, Vietnam confirmed a combined 1,570 locally-transmitted infections in the previous three waves.

The health ministry announced 12,523 recoveries on Thursday, taking the total to 338,170.

The toll has increased to 14,470 deaths after the ministry recorded 345 fatalities on the same day, including 203 in Ho Chi Minh City and 40 in Binh Duong Province.

Vietnam has documented 576,096 patients since the COVID-19 pandemic first struck it early last year.

Health workers have administered around 24.7 million vaccine doses, including 778,673 shots on Wednesday, since inoculation was rolled out on March 8.

Nearly 4.2 million people have been fully vaccinated.

Health authorities aim to immunize at least two-thirds of a population of nearly 98 million people against COVID-19 by the first quarter of next year.

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The military has mobilized 500,000 soldiers to prepare for Tropical Storm Conson, which is expected to unleash powerful winds and heavy downpours as it moves toward north-central Vietnam.

During a meeting on Wednesday, the National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control stated that more than 258,800 residents may need to be evacuated when the storm approaches.

They include 73,996 people in coastal areas, 114,091 residents living near rivers and dykes, and another 70,770 in areas at high risk of flash floods and landslides.

The Ministry of National Defense has mobilized 500,000 soldiers along with necessary tools and equipment to prepare for the arrival of the storm.

At the meeting, authorities in the north-central provinces of Thanh Hoa and Quang Binh expressed their concerns over the difficulties they may face when evacuating residents amid local social distancing drives.

According to a representative of the Ministry of Health, the safety of local residents must be prioritized when natural disasters occur.

If evacuation plans include people in areas at high risk of COVID-19 transmission, their temporary shelters must meet certain requirements on pandemic prevention and control, he continued.

The health ministry has issued a document on proactive response to natural disasters, storms, floods, and heavy rains in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

It is also preparing specific guidance for certain scenarios, the representative added.

At 1:00 pm on Thursday, Storm Conson was located 540 kilometers southeast of Vietnam's Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago, with winds at 75-90km per hour, the National Center for Hydro-meteorological Forecasting reported.

In the next 24 hours, the storm is expected to travel west, with wind speed increasing to 90-115km an hour.

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Vietnams Ministry of Health has allowed the use of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as the second dose for people who already received the Moderna vaccine and vice versa due to a supply shortage.

The decision was announced following a meeting of the health ministrys expert panel on usage of COVID-19 vaccines on Wednesday.

The ministry stated that the demand for COVID-19 vaccines has been rising as all provinces and cities boost their inoculation campaigns.

To ensure all residents receive their second doses after a set period of time, a mixed regimen is now permitted to be applied in case of a vaccine supply shortage.

Accordingly, people who received the AstraZeneca vaccine for the first shot can receive either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines for the second jab.

Those who were first inoculated with the Moderna vaccine can be injected with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for the second dose and vice versa.

Vietnam has acquired various COVID-19 vaccines produced with different technologies, namely viral vector vaccines (AstraZeneca and Sputnik V), mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna), and an inactivated vaccine (Sinopharm).

"Due to the general shortage of vaccines, many countries have approved mixed regimens for vaccines produced with the same or different technologies, such as combining viral vector vaccines with mRNA jabs, or mixing two mRNA vaccines produced by different manufacturers, the health ministry said.

In Vietnam, the scarcity of Moderna vaccine doses has forced many vaccination sites to provide the Pfizer-BioNTech as a second dose for residents who have met the recommended interval.

People who agree to receive the mixed regimen must be closely monitored to respond timely to complications, if any, the health ministry stated.

Vietnam had documented 563,676 COVID-19 cases as of Thursday afternoon, with 325,647 recoveries and 14,125 deaths.

The country has recorded 559,346 local infections in 62 out of 63 provinces and cities since the fourth wave began on April 27.

Over 23.5 million vaccine doses have been administered since inoculations were rolled out on March 8, with more than 3.7 million people fully vaccinated.

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10 Network Director of News Content Ross Dagan has been appointed Executive Vice President, News Operations & Transformation, CBS News & Stations at CBS in New York.

In a note to staff Beverley McGarvey, Chief Content Officer and Executive Vice President, ViacomCBS ANZ said, This wonderful appointment is a testament to Ross unrivaled experience and passion for news and its fantastic that he has been recognised in this way. It also highlights that we are now part of a global company, and that these exciting opportunities exist within our business.

Queensland-born Dagan is a former Executive Producer for News at Al Jazeera English, and held roles as Director of News Brisbane and Seven Queensland at Seven Network; Head of News and Current Affairs at TVNZ; and Director of News Sydney and Brisbane at Network Ten.

We are very pleased to welcome Ross to our CBS News and Stations family, CBS News and Stations presidents and co-heads Wendy McMahon said. As we continue the process of bringing together our wide portfolio of broadcast, streaming and digital resources, it is vital to have an inspiring organizational leader who is able to embrace the distinctive elements of our local, national and global news operations, break down silos, and manifest a modernized and maximized operations nucleus that will allow CBS News and Stations to become much greater than the sum of their individual parts.

Dagan, who oversees content for 10 News First and Studio 10, will assume his new responsibilities next month in New York.

10 is yet to announce his replacement.
On Monday Australian Story revisits Sydney GP Dr Jamal Rifi, who has gone to extra lengths to help vaccinate the people of Canterbury-Bankstown area.

Australian Story first profiled Sydney GP Dr Jamal Rifi in 2015, when he was paying a high price for speaking out against the radicalisation of Muslim youth.

Fast forward six years and Dr Rifi is again in the spotlight as he fights to protect his community of southwest Sydney against the Covid Delta outbreak and convince people vaccination is the only way out.

Hes put his retirement on hold and sacrificed his front yard to a drive-through testing station, enlisting his family to help.

A lot of people have said its a bit crazy to put a tent in the front yard but he wont say no. Actions speak louder than words and hes a man full of actions, says his son Faisal, who works for his father as a nurse.

Its classic Dr Rifi; unconventional but ultimately aimed at getting a result, says friend and state NSW MP Jihad Dib.

Dr Rifi is also playing a vital role in decoding government advertising and fighting mixed messaging in his community.

Without any doubt the government should have done better, he says. They should have developed a media strategy with Australians of non-English background.

For now, Dr Rifis retirement dreams remain on hold as his newly delivered motorhome languishes outside his medical clinic. But he hasnt lost hope.

We just need to be able to travel, he says. Once we get out of lockdown we can go when my job is done by vaccinating almost everyone in the Canterbury-Bankstown area.

Producer: Ben Cheshire

8pm Monday on ABC.
EXCLUSIVE: Filming of Hey Hey Were 50! took place on Wednesday night at NEP Studios in South Melbourne.

The nostalgic special looking back on Hey Hey its Saturdays three decades of Live television mayhem was filmed at the former Seven studios which were once home to Dancing with the Stars, The Chase, and even Man O Man. The building exterior is currently seen in ABCs The Newsreader.

Sources hint host Daryl Somers was linking between classic clips, live crosses to several former cast and joined by others Live in the studio.

Not all the cast are understood to have reunited (Livinia Nixon, for instance, is contracted to Nine), but one big name Australian star sent a video message congratulating the show on its 50th anniversary.

Seven Network Director of Programming, Angus Ross, said: For three decades, Hey Hey was one of the funniest, most entertaining and most unpredictable shows on TV. Were honoured to be part of what promises to be a wonderful celebration.

Seven is yet to confirm a broadcast date but Saturday October 9 is the shows official 50th.
Tyler, TX (75702)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 89F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 69F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
By Dave Larsen

Satang Nabaneh, a lawyer and social justice advocate with broad experience in the law and practice of human rights, joined the University of Dayton Human Rights Center last month as its new director of programs.

Nabaneh most recently served as academic coordinator for the masters and doctorate degrees in sexual and reproductive rights in the Africa program at the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, South Africa.

She holds doctor and master of laws degrees from the University of Pretoria. She also holds a bachelor of laws degree from the University of the Gambia, West Africa.

In her new role, Nabaneh will provide leadership on the University of Dayton Human Rights Centers offerings of human rights-related experiences for graduate and undergraduate students, in and out of the classroom. She will administer existing Human Rights Center (HRC) programs, and develop and cultivate educational, research and experiential learning opportunities for students locally, nationally and internationally. Nabaneh also will lead projects related to business, science, technology and human rights, the United Nations Global Compact and Universitywide engagement related to the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2030.

"Satang's experiences and perspectives fit perfectly with our center's mission and niche," said Shelley Inglis, HRC executive director and research professor of law. "She brings practical knowledge on how advocacy works and a wealth of expertise in international and African human rights mechanisms, women's rights and democratic development on the continent."

At the University of Pretorias Centre for Human Rights, Nabaneh developed curriculum for the masters degree program, provided project management, oversaw program funding, and managed relationships with partner organizations, institutions, development partners, donors and academia. She also promoted human rights in Africa through research, teaching and publications.

Nabaneh founded a girls empowerment advocacy organization, Think Young Women, in The Gambia. She also has experience in high-level advocacy forums at the United Nations, including the Commission on the Status of Women. Her academic work has been published in peer-reviewed journals that include Health and Human Rights Journal, International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics, African Disability Rights Yearbook, and Constitutions of the World.

As a lawyer, I have always believed that human rights law has great potential for the protection of the most vulnerable people in society and for bringing about social change, Nabaneh said. I look forward to contributing to HRC's focus on the social practice of human rights and the nexus between education, research and advocacy.

Tony Talbott, Abolition Ohio director and HRC director of advocacy, led the competitive international search. The search committee also included Inglis; Sangita Gosalia, Center for International Programs director of campus engagement; Sam Ortiz, Multi-Ethnic Education and Engagement Center associate director for campus and community engagement; and Joel Pruce, associate professor of political science.

For more information, visit the Human Rights Center website.
Former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani (AP)

The former president of Afghanistan has apologised for fleeing the country on the same day the Taliban stormed the capital, saying it was never his intent to abandon the people.

Ashraf Ghani told how he left Kabul on August 15 at the urging of palace security to avoid the risk of horrific street fighting.

In a statement published on Twitter, he said: Leaving Kabul was the most difficult decision of my life, but I believed it was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her six million citizens.

I have devoted 20 years of my life to helping the Afghan people work toward building a democratic, prosperous, and sovereign state. It was never my intent to abandon the people or that vision.

He continued: I apologise to the Afghan people that I could not make it end differently.

Mr Ghani, 72, took the opportunity to address what he called baseless allegations that he took millions of dollars from the treasury, saying the charges were completely and categorically false.

He said Afghanistan had been crippled by a plague of corruption and that he had inherited a monster that could not easily or quickly be defeated.

Mohammad Zahir Aghbar, who served as Afghanistans ambassador to Tajikistan, previously accused Mr Ghani of stealing $169 million from the state coffers, and called for his arrest.

Dismissing the allegations, Mr Ghani welcomed an official audit or financial investigation under UN auspices, or any other independent body, to prove his claims.

My wife and I have been scrupulous in our personal finances, he continued on Twitter.

I have publicly declared all of my assets. My wifes family inheritance has also been disclosed and remains listed in her home country of Lebanon.

Taliban fighters took control of Kabul and its presidential palace as the US began withdrawing troops from Afghanistan.

Militants had taken over swathes of the country before they edged towards the capital.

Panjshir valley was the last remaining hold-out among Afghanistans 34 provinces to resist the Taliban.

Story continues

The province, north of Kabul, was seized by Islamist militia on September 3 following two weeks of fierce fighting with a resistance group.

Read More

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Soldier speaks of desperate scenes at Afghan airport as civilians tried to flee
Russia and Belarus formally opened vast joint military drills on Thursday, a week-long exercise across the territory of both countries and in the Baltic Sea that has alarmed some NATO countries.

Top military leaders from the two countries attended the opening ceremony of the war games, called "Zapad-2021", in western Russia where flags were raised and speeches given.

The active part of the exercise, which comes at a time of heightened tensions between the West and Belarus due to a crackdown on the opposition there, begins on Friday and will run until Sept. 16.

The Russian defence ministry said up to 200,000 military personnel, some 80 aircraft and helicopters, up to 15 ships and nearly 300 tanks would take part.

The drills will involve live fire and mark the culmination of a bigger three-month exercise.

Military personnel from Armenia, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia will participate too, the Russian defence ministry said.

NATO officials have warned that the drills, which follow a huge Russian military buildup on Ukraine's borders earlier this year, increase the risk of an accident or miscalculation that could touch off a crisis.

Russian Deputy Defence Minister Nikolai Pankov said the drills were purely defensive in nature and would give Moscow and Minsk a chance to improve the way their respective militaries work together.

Analysts say Minsk's involvement highlights increasingly close ties between it and Moscow.

The Kremlin has proved a vital ally for Belarus after the West imposed sanctions on Minsk over a violent crackdown that followed a contested election which gave President Alexander Lukashenko his sixth term in office.

"Lukashenko has gone from not really being willing to participate (in the drills) back in 2017 to being one of the most boastful, in a way, about how important this exercise is in terms of the intimidation that it represents against the West," said Mathieu Boulegue, a research fellow at the Chatham House think tank.

Thursday's ceremony coincides with talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Lukashenko in the Kremlin.

(REUTERS)
The Duke of Sussex has wished the Walking With The Wounded team good luck and good weather after their 248-mile (400km) expedition was switched from Oman to the UK, saying they know what service is.

The trek by wounded serving and ex-military personnel was postponed twice because of the pandemic, and its destinations next month will now include Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons and the historic Thames Path.

Harry, who lives in California and is patron of The Grenadier Walk of Oman, said the six-strong squad understood that walking together with a common purpose and shared mission was more important than the location of their trek.

Harry joins Walking With The Woundeds Walk of Britain team in 2015 (Chris Jackson/PA)

The gruelling journey through the hostile Omani desert was to take the team across part of the Empty Quarter, one of the toughest regions on Earth.

The duke said: The team at Walking With The Wounded understand that its not about where you walk, its about walking together with a common purpose and shared mission.

These men and women know what service is, theyve seen and overcome adversity and they wont let obstacles get in their way.

They are paragons of inspiration for communities everywhere. We wish them good luck and good weather.

The expedition will still cover the original 248-mile distance but in half the time, starting on October 10 at the Omani embassy in London.

They will be supported by a Grenadier vehicle for parts of the route.

The WWTW team: Andy Phillips, Ben McComb, Dave Adams, Sean Gane, Ashley Winter (now support team) and Brian ONeill (WWTW/PA)

The charity said it wanted to raise funds and awareness of veteran issues, particularly following the recent withdrawal of Western forces from Afghanistan.

Among those selected for the challenge is David Adams, who spent 13 years as an aircraft technician in the Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME) and was medically discharged after a diagnosis of PTSD following traumatic events while serving in Afghanistan.

Fergus Williams, WWTWs chief executive, said: The Grenadier Walk of Oman was set to be an incredible expedition across the great sands, and the team have been training phenomenally hard in preparation for the desert trek.

Story continues

However, the continued uncertainty around the global Covid-19 pandemic and travel restrictions means that we have had to make the difficult decision to change our plans.

That said, WWTW is excited to be bringing the expedition home to the UK and allowing the team to put their hard work to the test, demonstrate how those who served can overcome adversity and raise vital funds to support those who served.

The duke joined the charity for part of its 1,000-mile Walk of Britain in 2015, walking a 17-mile stretch through the English countryside near Ludlow in Shropshire.

He has supported WWTW since the charity was formed, taking part in its expeditions to the North Pole in 2011 and South Pole in 2013.

Harry, who carried out frontline Army tours to Afghanistan, retained his private patronage of the Oman expedition despite being stripped of the royal patronages given to him by the Queen nearly a year after stepping down as a senior working royal.

The Sussexes were described as disrespectful to the monarch at the time, when their camp issued a statement saying: We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.
A court in Myanmar (Burma) has extended the pre-trial detention of journalist Danny Fenster to September 20. The Detroit Free Press recalled that Fenster had been arrested at Yangon International Airport on May 24 as he was preparing to travel to the Michigan home of his parents.

Fenster has been accused of incitement and could receive a three-year prison sentence if found guilty, according to the Detroit Free Press and WDET, an NPR station in Detroit. The news organizations noted that Fenster had been the managing editor of the online publication Frontier Myanmar.

The Detroit Free Press said that the Myanmar court had held a hearing on September 6, when it was decided that Fenster's case would be heard on September 20. The paper added that Fenster's lawyer had not been present at the hearing, which was conducted by video due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The danger of COVID-19 in jail

WDET quoted Fenster's brother, Bryan Fenster, saying the coronavirus was "running rampant" in Myanmar, "especially in the prison where Dannys being held. Hes unvaccinated." The Detroit Free Press said Danny Fenster had told his lawyer that he thought he had COVID-19. The paper also quoted a Myanmar prison official, Chan Aye Kyaw, saying Fenster did not have COVID-19. WDET said the Committee was seeking Fenster's release to Protect Journalists and the U.S.

government.

'Journalism is not a crime'

U.S. State Department Spokesperson Ned Price called for Fenster's release on September 1. "Journalism is not a crime," said Price, adding that the arrests of Fenster and other journalists was "an unacceptable attack on freedom of expression in Burma." He said the State Department had talked with Fenster over the phone on August 27.

"We are also regularly in touch with the Fenster family," Price said. He stressed, "We continue to press Burmas military regime to release Danny immediately. We will do so until he safely returns home to his family."

During todays briefing, @StateDeptSpox expressed deep concern at the continued detention of U.S. journalist Danny Fenster in Burma: Journalism is not a crime. pic.twitter.com/l66O2M5hm1  Department of State (@StateDept) September 1, 2021

2021 John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award

The National Press Club awarded this year's John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award to Fenster and Haze Fan, a news assistant for Bloomberg in China.

The organization's website explained that the award was given to one American journalist and one foreign journalist. The National Press Club noted that Fenster had previously worked for a publication called Myanmar Now but had quit 10 months before his arrest. The organization recalled that Fenster and Fan "exemplify the importance of reporting hard truths and perseverance even in dangerous conditions. We will continue to advocate for their freedom and for their work as part of the press corps."

The National Press Club announced Monday that Danny Fenster will receive the 2021 John Aubuchon Press Freedom Award, which recognizes journalists who bravely push to disclose the truth in trying circumstances. https://t.co/2zrwkhIgI6  John M. Donnelly (@johnmdonnelly) September 1, 2021

WDET recalled that Fenster had grown up in the Detroit suburb of Huntington Woods. The Fenster family is in the district of Congressman Andy Levin, who has expressed support for Danny Fenster on Twitter under the hashtag #BringDannyHome.
Today, at the BRICS online summit, the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa are discussing the latest developments in Afghanistan, as well as the fight against terrorism and international crime. Financial Times writes that though the host-Chair India has identified the four key areas of intra-BRICS cooperation as reforming the multilateral system, counter-terrorism, digital solutions for sustainable development and people-to-people cooperation; the centre of attention would be Afghanistan.

The issue of terrorism has acquired a new significance owing to the withdrawal of US forces and the Talibans (a terrorist organization banned in Russia) capture of power in Kabul. There is a global concern that Afghanistan may re-emerge as a springboard of radicalism and terrorism. New Delhi too might be at the receiving end given its low influence over the new regime in Kabul. In contrast, Islamabad is having a field day bringing the warring Taliban factions together, installing a new regime, and playing second fiddle to the big powers in their negotiations with the Taliban.

India has persistently raised the issue of terrorism in all international forums. But at the Goa Summit of BRICS in 2016, India placed terrorism higher up in priority compared to other issues. Chinese spokesperson, Hua Chunying, criticised the linking of terrorism to any specific country, ethnicity or religion. Beijing objected strongly to New Delhis efforts to hold Pakistan accountable for the terrorist attacks. In the final declaration of the Summit, there was no mention of Pakistan as beinga sponsor of terrorism or even of radical networks operating from there. This was considered a major setback to New Delhis efforts.

There was an unexpected turnaround at the Xiamen Summit in 2017. The declaration mentioned several organisations including the Taliban and the Haqqani Network (banned in Russia) for perpetrating violence. It expressed concern over the violence caused by the Taliban, ISIL/DAISH, Al-Qaeda (all three banned in Russia) and its affiliates including Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan, the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) , Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), TTP and Hizb ut-Tahrir. New Delhi described it as a diplomatic breakthrough because the names of LeT and JeM were mentioned in the declaration for the first time. Interestingly, this declaration praised the efforts of the Afghan National Forces in fighting the terrorist organizations. The names of the Taliban and the Haqqani network also figured prominently in the list.

The Haqqani network, headed by Sirajuddin Haqqani, is an important constituent of the Taliban regime in Kabul. In an article published in the New York Times (20 Feb 2020), What We, the Taliban, Want, Sirajuddin Haqqani, presented himself as the deputy leader of the Taliban. He dismissed the idea of the Taliban being different from the Haqqani network. The US State Department treats the Haqqani network and Taliban as distinct entities, despite their affiliations. It had designated the Haqqani network as a terrorist group in 2012. The FBI also offered $5 million for any information leading to Mr Haqqanis arrest. In the present ruling dispensation in Kabul, he is the Minister of the Interior Ministry overseeing the law and order situation in Afghanistan. His uncle, Khalil Haqqani, the acting minister of refugees and repatriation is also blacklisted by the US State Department. The government in Kabul will be headed by Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund, one of the founders of the Taliban, who is himself on a UN blacklist.

Therefore, the first and foremost challenge before the BRICS states is to devise mechanisms to deal with the new government in Kabul. The offices of the Prime Minister, the Interior Minister and many others are held by individuals who were designated as terrorists. The BRICS in its Xiamen declaration has blacklisted organisations whose leaders were once in terror outfits and are now in the government. So, how will BRICS deal with such organisations and individuals? Will it turn a blind eye or wait for the West to take a decision first?

There is a consensus among the BRICS states that Afghanistan should not become a safe haven for groups such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda. Each country has its own nemesis or target groups in Afghanistan. Just as China fears the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), Russia too dreads the spread of the Islamic State, al-Qaeda and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. While in India, concerns are about the consolidation of the LeT, JeM and Haqqani network.

BRICS states agree that terrorism in all forms should be condemned and countered. In the 6th meeting of the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Working Group, held virtually on 28-29 July 2021, an Action Plan was laid out which aimed at result-oriented cooperation in areas such as preventing and combating terrorism, radicalisation, financing of terrorism, misuse of the internet by terrorists, information sharing and so on. This Action Plan is being projected as one of the key achievements of Indias Chairship of BRICS.

The developments in Afghanistan have altered the meaning and the way we look at terrorism in South Asia. Indias diplomatic efforts will invariably encounter the wall of the Beijing-Islamabad nexus as Beijing will not displease Islamabad at a time when its support is critical in containing the influence of the ETIM. In fact, China will turn a blind eye to the nexus between Rawalpindi and the Haqqani network. It will continue to view Pakistan as a victim of terrorism, rather than taking it as both the sponsor and a victim.

The situation is far more precarious for Russia because of the presence of its forces on Tajik-Afghan borders, the exclusion of Tajiks from the interim government in Kabul and the ongoing conflict between the Tajik and the Taliban forces in the Panjshir valley. Moscow is wary of the spread of radical Wahabi ideology in Central Asia and the Caucasus region. Drug trafficking and the refugee problem are other key issues for Russia. Instability in Central Asia and the Caucasus would create a nightmare for Russia  similar to what it witnessed in the 1990s. To avoid that situation, it is actively pursuing negotiations with the Taliban bilaterally as well as in the troika format.

India can gain some influence in Afghanistan but this would require more active support from Russia, Iran and even Beijing. New Delhi must grapple with a few new realities in South Asia  first, the Taliban are likely to stay in power at least for some time; second, Washington is unlikely to undertake counterterrorism operations in the region any further; and finally, Moscow, Beijing and Tehran, in addition to Islamabad, are becoming the new players in the Great Game as it slowly unfolds in the region. Therefore, New Delhi needs to recalibrate its regional strategy which factors in the new regime in Kabul as well as the new regional power-brokers. BRICS and the SCO are two useful platforms for New Delhi in dealing with these powers.
The status of the Panjshir Valley in the east of Afghanistan remained unclear Tuesday, following Taliban* statements that the militants had taken the last holdout province in the country even as anti-Taliban resistance members vowed to keep fighting, CNBC writes. If the claims of victory are true, it means that the whole of Afghanistan is now under control of the Taliban, who through a series of stunning battlefield gains and Afghan military surrenders through July and early August took over the country of nearly 40 million as the U.S. withdrew its forces.

It would also mean an unprecedented and profoundly symbolic defeat for a province known for its thus far undefeated fighters, who over the last several decades successfully withstood both Taliban and Soviet invasions and who were vital allies to the U.S. Fighting was continuing as of late Tuesday, according to a member of the National Resistance Front, who spoke to CNBC from Panjshir on condition of anonymity due to security risks. The NRF is a multi-ethnic group of tribes, militias and Afghan military personnel who oppose the Taliban.

While the Taliban have entered the historically crucial valley, there is no evidence that they have taken control of it, says Kamal Alam, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, who was in the Panjshir just last month. Taliban have claimed they took Panjshir before without evidence. This time one thing is clear: They have definitely entered Panjshir, Alam told CNBC on Tuesday. Taking it entirely is another matter, and yet to be proven. They have only taken parts of it at a minimal level for now, that much is certain.

Massouds son Ahmad is the leader of the National Resistance Front and CEO of the Massoud Foundation. In a prepared statement posted to social media on Monday, Ahmad Massoud vowed to fight on against the Taliban and sought to rally others to do the same. In no way military pressure on us and our territory will lessen our resolve to continue our fight, he said. Wherever you are, whether inside the country or outside, we appeal to you to rise up in resistance for the dignity, integrity, and freedom of our country ... We, the NRF, will stand firmly with you.

Ahmad Massoud criticized the Taliban for not abiding by a resolution reached by Afghanistans Council of Ulema, or top religious scholars, calling for a cessation of hostilities. We considered it final and non-violable, waiting for the other sides response, Ahmad Massoud said in his Monday statement. Yet the Taliban revealed their true nature by discarding the resolutions demand with their offensive into the Panjshir.

Ahmad Massoud, 32, was educated in the West at Sandhurst Military Academy and Kings College London. He has vowed to continue the legacy of his late father, claiming to fight for a free and democratic Afghanistan.

Known as the Lion of the Panjshir, Ahmad Shah Massoud led resistance against the Soviets in the 1980s and the Taliban in the 1990s. The mountainous Panjshir persisted as one of the only parts of Afghanistan the Taliban were not able to seize during that time. Ahmad Shah Massoud worked with CIA paramilitary forces to galvanize and train local tribes to combat the Taliban but was assassinated by al Qaeda militants just two days before the groups terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon that precipitated the U.S. intervention in Afghanistan.

The implications and the significance of losing the Panjshir to the Taliban would be huge, said Alam. Not just for Afghanistan, but the world  9/11, the end of the Cold War and guerilla warfare folklore all collide in Panjshir. For the last two and a half decades, the Taliban were beaten time and again, every time they tried to enter the northeast; not just Panjshir, Alam said. However, now if God forbid Panjshir was to fall, it will be a huge psychological and tactical defeat with a strategic change for the future of Central Asia too.

Emily Winterbotham, director of the terrorism and conflict group at the Royal United Services Institute in London, echoed that sentiment. If confirmed, the Talibans victory over the small province of Panjshir is deeply symbolic, Winterbotham said. It ends, at least for now, the last strand of resistance to the Taliban, a feat not achieved by the regime the first time around in the 1990s.

It would also demonstrate just how much stronger the Taliban are compared to 20 years ago. The Taliban have not only grown in size and in terms of support or acceptance in parts of the country; they also now have possession of billions of dollars worth of U.S. weapons and two decades of experience fighting Western militaries.

While the Taliban have said they intend to establish a more inclusive and conciliatory leadership than in the past, the behavior of its fighters in recent weeks tells a different story. Taliban members have killed and beaten civilians  particularly protesters  including women and children. Concerns are mounting that the Taliban will seek to exact harsh retribution for the resistance against the inhabitants of the valley, Winterbotham said. How the Taliban responds is an indicator of how much the group has actually changed.

*Taliban, terrorist organization banned in Russia
Oil prices rebounded early on Wednesday, rising by more than 1 percent, as nearly 80 percent of the total crude oil production in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico remains shut-in more than a week after Hurricane Ida made landfall in Louisiana. As of 8:07 a.m. EDT, the prompt price of the U.S. benchmark, WTI Crude, traded above $69 per barrel, at $69.24, up 1.43% on the day. The price of Brent Crude was $72.48, up by 1.21%, Oil Price writes.

Oil was also supported by reports in recent hours that protests at various key Libyan oil terminals have disrupted loadings on tankers or the entire oil export operations. Protesters at the Es Sider terminal have derailed the loading of a Suezmax tanker, Yannis P, sources familiar with the situation told Bloomberg on Wednesday. According to oil engineers at the oil ports of Es Sider and Hariga who spoke to Reuters, protesters blocked exports at those ports. Three tankers are waiting to load at Es Sider and one at Hariga, according to Reuters sources.

At the same time, the slow resumption of U.S. Gulf of Mexicos crude oil production after Hurricane Ida also supported oil prices. As of Tuesday, a total of 1.44 million barrels per day (bpd) of oil production was still shut-in, equal to 79.33 percent of all U.S. Gulf of Mexico production, data from the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) showed.

Also as of Tuesday, five refineries in Louisiana remain shut, accounting for about 1.0 million bpd of refinery capacity, or 6 percent of the total U.S. operable refining capacity, the Department of Energy said in its latest update.

So far Hurricane Ida has resulted in 19.2MMbbls of production being lost, and with output still set to take a while to recover, these losses will only grow. Refinery operations appear to be making a quicker recovery, ING strategists Warren Patterson and Wenyu Yao said early on Wednesday.
Turkey has been enjoying good relations with three Gulf states  Qatar, Oman and Kuwait  for decades. However, Turkeys relations with the other three members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)  the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Saudi Arabia  worsened due to their conflicting perspectives toward the Arab insurgencies, Daily Sabah writes.

After changes in regional balances and new developments, these three Gulf states began to rebuild trust with Turkey and eventually to improve their relations with Ankara, which will have significant implications in the economic, cultural and political spheres. This normalization was part of the general normalization efforts in the Middle East, when most states began to prefer diplomatic means in their dealings with other regional states. In the normalization process between Turkey and these three states, the UAE is the most critical actor, since it is the most anti-Turkish state and the most hawkish and revisionist player in the larger Middle East. Furthermore, the UAE is known as the typical state following the most subversive policies toward regional actors.

Normalization process with UAE

The normalization is reflected in two significant meetings. The first meeting was the visit of the UAE National Security Adviser Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the brother of the crown prince, to Ankara. This visit was a milestone in bilateral relations since it was the highest-level visit by an Emirati official to Turkey since the failed coup attempt in 2016. The second meeting was held between President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and de facto leader of the UAE, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Zayed (MBZ). Normalization with Turkey should be seen within the context of the Emirati diversification of its regional policy.

Bahrain follows

If Turkey normalizes its relations with the UAE, most probably Bahrain will follow in due course, since the Bahraini government has been following in the footsteps of the UAE in most regional issues. There are some indications of the improvement in bilateral relations. For instance, the Turkish ambassador to Bahrain, Esin Cakl, met with two different Bahraini ministers. After Ambassador Cakl met with Bahraini Minister of Health Faeqa bint Saeed on July 8, she met with the President of Shura Council Ali bin Saleh al-Saleh on July 27. More importantly, King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa received Cakl last Sunday at his palace in Manama. According to Bahrain News Agency, during their meeting, King Hamad discussed the bilateral relations between the two brotherly countries with the ambassador. The king pointed out that relations between Bahrain and Turkey are at an advanced level and that cooperation between the two countries is developing. He thanked the ambassador for her efforts in improving bilateral relations in all spheres.

Turkey and Saudi Arabia

It can be inferred that Bahrain cannot improve its relations without consulting with the Saudi government. Saudi Arabia will also respond to the new regional balances and attempt to normalize its relations with Turkey.

There are two significant aspects of the normalization between Turkey and the three Gulf states.

The first aspect is what are the main reasons for the new normalization process between Turkey and some Gulf states? First of all, it is clear that the strict anti-Turkish regional policy followed by the three Gulf states did not produce the desired results. Turkish support played a great role in the Qatari crisis and forced the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to take steps back over the Qatari crisis.

Second, the change of the administration in Washington D.C. has important implications on the policies of the regional countries. U.S. President Joe Biden's administration has ceased the blank check policy given to these Gulf states provided by former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration in return for normalizing their relations with Israel. As a Democrat, Biden attaches greater importance to democratic values and human rights. Biden and many other Western politicians began to question Saudi and Emirati policies in the Yemeni crisis.

Third, the dramatic American withdrawal from Afghanistan damaged the trust in the U.S. allies in the Middle East. The UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt began to worry about U.S. involvement in regional issues. The Afghanistan case has shown that the U.S. may leave them anytime. Therefore, they began to reshuffle the cards in the region and to improve their relations with regional actors.

Ankara needs to be careful

Whatever reasons are behind this normalization process, Turkey has to be careful throughout the process. First of all, while Turkey normalizes its relations with the three Gulf states, it has to be careful not to harm its relations with Qatar. Ankara and Doha have a special relationship, established over the last decade, and especially during the Gulf crisis in 2017 when the three Gulf states tried to punish Qatar for its relatively independent, diversified, inclusive and constructive regional foreign policy. Turkey emerged as the main supporter of the Qatari government throughout its resistance against the other Gulf states. Turkey provided a significant amount of economic, diplomatic, and more importantly, military aid to Qatar. In return, Qatar also provided economic and political support to Turkey in its regional initiatives such as Libya, Syria and Palestine.

Second, Turkey needs to improve its relations with these three Gulf states based on the sectoral policy understanding. For instance, the two sides may disagree on some issues but they can cooperate in some other issue areas. Similarly, the two sides may disagree in some sectors, but they can cooperate in certain fields. In other words, since a full normalization will take a long time, at this juncture simply changing the direction of the relationship would be enough. If the sides continue to invest in improving their relations, many problems can be solved during the implementation of the process. For now, it is clear that the two sides have opened a new page in their relations.
During the period of Armenia's military aggression against Azerbaijan, which lasted for about 30 years, the educational infrastructure of Azerbaijan was seriously damaged, according to the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry.

"More than 1,000 educational institutions and kindergartens were completely destroyed," the ministry said.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will pay a visit to the United States on Sept. 19-22 to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Erdogan will address participants at the summit to be held at the U.N. headquarters in New York. He also will hold bilateral meetings with some leaders.

The president is also expected to inaugurate Turkish House (Turkevi), which is located in Manhattan, right across from the U.N. headquarters, Daily Sabah reported.

The previous building that had long been used by Turkey as a building for consular affairs and permanent representation was knocked down to construct a new one. The new Turkish House is expected to overshadow the U.N. building, the U.N. Plaza and the building of the U.S.' U.N. permanent representation at a height of 171 meters.

Turkish House is planned to be a building that features Turkish culture, history and have a multiplicity of Turkish architectural motifs. It will also be a green-friendly building with "LEED Silver" certification.
The foreign ministers of Iran and Russia have underlined the need for the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan with the participation of all groups in the war-torn country, where the Taliban militant group has gained power in light of the US withdrawal, PressTV reports.

Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, made the comment in a phone conversation on Thursday, during which the two sides discussed the latest developments in the region and Afghanistan.

Amir-Abdollahian and Lavrov stressed that the new government of Afghanistan should be one that represents all political groups in the country.
Kazakhstan is ready to establish constructive dialogue with the new Afghan authorities - the Taliban movement (outlawed in Russia) - to solve acute humanitarian problems, Kazakh President Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev said on 9 September.

He noted that Kazakhstan believes that Afghanistan should become a stable, sovereign and united nation living in peace with itself and its neighbors.

"We are ready to establish constructive business-like contacts with the new authorities, primarily to resolve acute humanitarian problems that this long-suffering countries is facing," Tokayev said, as quoted by his press service.

The Kazakh president called on the global community to "integrate the idea of sustainable economic development into all the future actions and plans related to Afghanistan" at this turning point.
Israel wont allow Iran to become a nuclear state, or even a nuclear threshold state, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid said on Thursday.

Lapid spoke in Moscow at a news briefing following a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov.

"Irans march towards a nuclear weapon is not only an Israeli problem, its a problem for the entire world," Lapid said. "The world needs to stop Iran from getting a nuclear capability, no matter the price. If the world doesnt do it, Israel reserves the right to act Israel will not allow Iran to become a nuclear state, or even a nuclear threshold state."
Moscow and Minsk have agreed all the 28 Union State programs, Russian President Vladimir Putin said following talks with his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday.

"It is about 28 so-called Union State programs aimed at harmonizing Russian and Belarusian laws in various areas of the economy, ensuring equal conditions for the activities of the two countries economic entities, forming common financial and energy markets and a common transport space, as well as at developing and implementing a common industrial and agricultural policy. And today, I am pleased to note that all the 28 programs have been agreed," Putin pointed out.

"The plan is that they will be approved at a meeting of the Union State Council of Ministers in Minsk tomorrow and after that, they will be submitted for approval to the Supreme Council of the Union State that is expected to hold a meeting before the end of the year," the Russian leader added.

Putin has not ruled out the creation of a union parliament of Russia and Belarus in the future, but this issue was not discussed yet.

"We consider <> that although this is a noble political goal, first we should create an economic basis, an economic foundation in order to move forward, including on the political track. We have not discussed these issues so far," Putin said, answering a question on the possible creation of a union parliament.

When speaking about political integration, the Russian leader pointed out that it was exactly the initial goal of the Treaty on the Creation of the Union State. He noted that when it was about economic agreements on various product categories, the parties resolved issues as a whole, building a strong economic foundation to move forward. "The same goes for these matters (in the political field)," the Russian president added.

Putin also said that Moscow has decided to lift all restrictions on flights to and from Belarus.

"Alexander Grigoryevich [Lukashenko] does not know yet about a decision that a governmental commission has just made not so far from here, in the House of Government. The decision is to lift all coronavirus restrictions on air transportation," TASS cited Putin as saying.

"Before all the so-called coronavirus restrictions were introduced, we used to have over 200 flights a week - 201 to be precise - and now there are only 36. I dont think that the number will go back to the pre-pandemic level of over 200 flights in just a couple of days but I believe that the recovery will be fast," Putin noted.
A bulk carrier briefly became stuck in the northern section of the Suez Canal on Thursday but was refloated and there was no impact on traffic, the Suez Canal Authority (SCA) said in a statement, Reuters reports.

The Panama-flagged Coral Crystal, with a cargo of 43,000 tonnes, suffered from a temporary problem on its way southwards through the canal, the SCA said, but ships behind it were diverted through a parallel channel.

Traffic in the canal was blocked in both directions for six days in March when the giant container ship Ever Given became grounded in a southern section of the canal, which has only a single channel for vessels going in both directions.
The Taliban movement (outlawed in Russia) has moved to tighten its crackdown on escalating protests against its rule, banning any demonstrations that do not have official approval for both the gathering itself and for any slogans that might be used.

In the first decree issued by the hardline Islamist groups new interior ministry, which is led by Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is wanted by the United States on terrorism charges, the Taliban warned opponents that they must secure permission before any protests or face severe legal consequences.

Wednesdays formal ban follows violent and sometimes lethal confrontations between Taliban fighters and demonstrators in several cities since the group swept to power, with women often at the forefront of the protests, The Guardian reported.

In the capital Kabul, a small rally was quickly dispersed by armed Taliban security, while Afghan media reported a protest in the north-eastern city of Faizabad was also broken up.
The Afghan government will include women in the future, the Taliban movement (outlawed in Russia) spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced the interim government of Afghanistan that includes no female ministers.

"This government is interim. We will have posts for women with the respect for the Sharia laws. This is a start, but we will find seats for women. They can be a part of the government. This will be the second stage," Mujahid told the BFMTV broadcaster on late Wednesday.

On Wednesday, residents of Kabul went to a protest in the Dashte Barchi area in the western part of Kabul, demanding to ensure the participation of women in governing the country. At the same time, women rallied in Kunduz in support of the interim Afghan government, a source told Sputnik.

The organization UN Women said on Wednesday that it was "deeply disappointed" at the composition of the new Afghan government, as it includes no women. The group added that it has received numerous reports of women who have been prohibited from leaving their homes to go to work or to complete daily tasks.

Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada said earlier that Afghanistan will be ruled by Sharia law, and added that human and minority rights will be protected "within the framework of Islam."
Turkey and Egypt have agreed that further steps need to be taken to normalize relations between the two countries following two days of diplomatic talks in Ankara.

The second round of consultations between the delegations was headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Sedat Onal and his Egyptian counterpart Hamdi Sanad Loza.

According to the Turkish Foreign Ministry, the two sides addressed bilateral issues as well as a number of regional topics, such as the situation in Libya, Syria, Palestine and the Eastern Mediterranean.

It added that the two sides agreed to continue these consultations, confirming their desire to make progress in areas under discussion, Daily Sabah reported.

Earlier this year, Turkey said it had resumed diplomatic contact with Egypt and wanted to improve cooperation after years of tensions that began with the disruption of relations in 2013.

In May, a delegation of senior Turkish officials traveled to Egypt for an official visit  the first since 2013  to discuss normalizing diplomatic relations amid efforts by the two countries to improve bilateral ties that deteriorated following the Arab Spring.
In a phone conversation on Thursday, the presidents of Turkey and Tajikistan discussed the latest situation in Afghanistan, Yeni Safak reports.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Emomali Rahmon addressed "bilateral relations and regional developments, particularly Afghanistan," said Turkeys Communications Directorate in a statement.

The call came in the wake of the Taliban forming an interim government in Afghanistan, which borders Tajikistan, in the wake of the groups lighting takeover of the country last month.

Congratulating the 30th anniversary of the brotherly Tajikistans independence, President Erdogan stated that Turkey would continue to stand by Tajikistan as one of the first countries to have recognized its independence, the statement added.
According to a report by iPrice, grocery prices in Vietnam are among the cheapest in Southeast Asia after comparing prices for groceries in Southeast Asia from Numbeo.

Items were broken down by category and weight, such as starchy foods (bread, rice); eggs, milk, cheese; meat (chicken, beef); fruits and vegetables; water; alcohol, beer and tobacco.

Singapore has the highest cost for common grocery products at 2.5 million VND ($110), followed by Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines.

According to Numbeo users, the cost for these items in Vietnam is only about 1.2 million VND ($54). Excluding alcohol, beer and tobacco products, the estimated cost in Vietnam is only about 942,000 VND ($41).

This shows that even during the Covid-19 pandemic, buying products to serve basic daily living needs in Vietnam is still easier than in other countries in the region.

According to an e-commerce report from iPrice, online groceries were the only category maintaining steady and consistent growth since the pandemic broke out. This partly explains the strong increase in demand for online stores selling essential products during the months of social distancing.

Google searches related to the keyword online grocery store increased 223% in the second quarter of 2021. The number of searches increased 11 times in July compared to May and 3.6 times compared to June when the social distancing order under Directive 16 was implemented in some provinces and cities in Vietnam.

People have bought more fresh food, meat and fish, drinks of all kinds, and packaged foods and vegetables. The growth rates were 99%, 51%, 30% and 11% respectively in the second quarter compared to the first quarter of 2021.

Social distancing has exploded the demand for online department stores and online supermarkets.

The demand for shopping for electronic devices has increased sharply. The previous report of iPrice showed that the percentage of women shopping for electronic products online is equal to that of men. The group of women aged 35-44 and 45-54 increased by 4% compared to the first quarter of 2020. In addition, the older age group, 55-64, also experienced a slight increase of 2%.

According to data from iPrice Group and SimilarWeb, the total number of visits to the top 50 shopping websites in Vietnam in the first six months of the year reached more than 1.3 billion, the highest so far, and that of the second quarter is 10% up compared to the first quarter of 2021.

The annual report of Facebook and Bain & Company in the Southeast Asian market forecasts that Vietnam's e-commerce revenue in 2021 can reach 12 billion USD. This number will increase 4.5 times and reach 56 billion USD by 2026, and Vietnam will become the second largest market in the region after Indonesia.

This shows that Vietnam's e-commerce market has a positive outlook and is expected to continue to boom in the near future. However, the pandemic is still ongoing and there is a high probability that it will continue to create other changes in the future.

Thu Ky
Vietnam intends to issue a new decree to regulate cross-border e-commerce deliveries amidst the e-commerce boom.

Vietnam is preparing regulations for a boom in e-commerce

The Vietnam E-Business Index (EBI) report by the Vietnam E-commerce Association reveals that Vietnam's e-commerce market posted an average annual growth rate of 25-30 per cent over the past five years. If Vietnam maintains this growth rate, the market size in 2025 will be ranked third in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia and Thailand.

Therefore, Vietnam is taking efforts to develop legislation better to regulate the growing cross-border e-commerce activities. Most recently, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has sent an official dispatch to consult ministries and branches for comments on the draft decree on the management of export-import goods transacted through e-commerce.

The ministry said that goods imported and exported through e-commerce platforms have increased rapidly during the pandemic and sale seasons. However, customs procedures for e-commerce goods are carried out as for ordinary goods, causing some problems for regulatory bodies.

Some buyers fail to submit or present a paper related to the value of e-commerce goods to determine the taxable amount. With the increasing number of cross-border e-commerce packages, custom departments have to find solutions to speed up goods clearance to reduce congestion at the border gate. The customs authority does not have prior information about the type of goods to decide whether to carry out inspection or not.

In addition, Vietnam does not impose import tax on packages worth VND1 million ($44) each or lower delivered via postal and delivery services. Some people have taken advantage of this policy to divide their cross-border e-commerce goods into smaller-value packages to evade tax.

To remove this loophole, the MoF proposes each organisation or individual will be free of import tax for maximum four orders every month. Meanwhile, packages valued more than $44 with import tax amount above VND100,000 ($4.39) will be subjected to tax payment.

The draft decree also mentions the process to speed up customs clearance for imported and exported goods through the e-commerce platforms. If approved, this decree is expected to take effect from January 1, 2023.

Source: VIR
With control loosening, businesses in green zones in Hanoi will be able to restart their production and business activities. But they fear that control may tighten again if the outbreak gets worse.

Pham Duc Anh, Director of Hong Minh Production and Services, has a cosmetics production facility in Hoai Duc district. When Hanoi imposed lockdown on July 24, the company had to stop its operation because cosmetics are not considered essential goods.

On September 6, the company was allowed to resume production, because the production facility is located in a green zone. The barriers installed around the production facility were removed by the local authorities.

In order to resume production, the enterprise was told to draw up a plan on both organizing production and fighting the pandemic for approval.

Anh is happy but he still has worries. Many workers at the company live in Ha Dong District, which belongs to a red zone. How will they move from their houses in the red zone to the factory in the green zone? And he wonders if travel permits will allow people to go from red zone to green zone to work.

If the enterprise organizes production with the three on the site model, it will run with just 30 percent of capacity.

The enterprise is facing a lot of other problems, including a 50 percent disruption in the supply chain because of social distancing. In addition, cash flow has stopped because the company has no revenue but still has to pay for rent, loan interest and prevention measures.

Anh thinks that production will only be able to return to normal by the end of the year, if the outbreak is controlled in September.

Nguyen Van Cuong, Director of Tre Viet in Thanh Oai district, which makes interior products from bamboo for export, said his enterprise has been pursuing the three on the site. He has reduced the workforce, which has resulted in lower productivity, while anti-pandemic costs have increased.

Since Thanh Oai district belongs to a green zone, the company has upgraded' facilities and increased the workforce to resume operation. What worries Cuong the most is the delivery time. If the company cannot deliver products on schedule, it will be fined.

A representative of URC Hanoi which has a food and drink production facility in Thach That  Quoc Oai industrial zone (IZ), said the enterprise has been organizing production with three on the site model since late July and it will maintain it as per the request of the local authorities and the IZ board of management.

Most of the workers are locals from Thach That and Quoc Oai districts, so there is no need to worry about their travel. However, the production mode has led to higher anti-pandemic cost. Meanwhile, the input and transportation costs are also on the rise.

Green enterprises

Many enterprises in green zones have said they will resume production and business. However, they fear that local authorities may set up new anti-pandemic regulations which may affect their activities.

Many enterprises in green zones have said they will resume production and business. However, they fear that local authorities may set up new anti-pandemic regulations which may affect their activities.

Chuong My District has asked enterprises to run at 50 percent of capacity and workforce, and schedule production shifts in a way to ensure necessary distance among workers. Enterprises have also been asked to commit to measures to prevent the pandemic and take responsibility if Covid-19 breaks out in their factories.

Thach That has decided to divide the district into three zones, including high-risk (orange), medium risk (yellow) and safe (green). The district continues to suspend the operation of service facilities in the locality, except ones providing essential goods and services.

Work can resume at factories, workshops, transport and construction works, essential goods trading households; eateries which sell take-away food (with partitions to separate sellers and buyers; sellers must wear droplet-prevention glasses); medical declarations and QR Code usage.

The Gia Lam Peoples Committee has also divided the locality into three sub-zones depending on the risk level. The construction of private houses is allowed, but must follow the three on the site, and one route, two location points models, and the owners must have approved plans to prevent and control the pandemic.

The eateries in green zones can reopen, but only can sell take-away food.

According to the Hanoi Labor Federation, many enterprises have suspended production or kept operation at a moderate level during the fourth outbreak, which has affected hundreds of thousand of workers. Hanoi had over 1,000 large-scale production enterprises affected in the peak time, and nearly 50,000 lost jobs or lacked jobs and had to work in a rotation scheme.

However, the city has established 615 business green zones which have operation plans approved by the local authorities.

To date, 4,306 enterprises have set up free Covid units with 50,480 participants. Of these, 2,116 units are in IZs and export processing zones (EPZs) in 408 enterprises, with 8,705 participants.

The model of free Covid units will be applied to the enterprises to restart their operation and help expand business green zones.

Tran Thuy
In this article, domestic and foreign experts will offer solutions to help Vietnam take advantage of its strengths and overcome its weaknesses to build a digital nation.

The digital skills of the people, the innovation capacity of businesses, and accessibility, quality and information security are the factors that will determine whether Vietnam can catch up and surpass other countries in terms of digital transformation.

In the previous article, VietNamNet pointed out the current status of digital transformation in the country through reports of international organizations and opinions of experts. In this article, domestic and foreign experts will offer solutions to help Vietnam take advantage of its strengths and overcome its weaknesses to build a digital nation.

Jacques Morissette, Chief Economist and Manager of the World Bank's Macroeconomic, Trade and Investment Program in Vietnam, said that for successful digital transformation, Vietnam must have good infrastructure constantly maintained, upgraded and modernized. Vietnam also needs to ensure the speed of telecommunications infrastructure.

Jacques Morissette, Chief Economist and Manager of the World Bank's Macroeconomic, Trade and Investment Program in Vietnam

He said that it would take Vietnam about 25 years to reach the current level of Thailand in terms of digital skills. Therefore, Vietnam should go faster by upgrading digital skills for its people.

He also warned that businesses may be afraid to spend money to pay for training courses for employees. When workers have finished training, they will probably seek more competitive jobs. Is so, Vietnam may fall into a situation where businesses do not invest, or do not invest enough in digital skills. He suggested that the government should intervene more by subsidizing training.

The second priority, according to the World Bank expert, is to encourage businesses to adopt new technologies. This is very important in digital transformation because the world changes so fast.

To solve this problem, Vietnam needs two groups of businesses: big pioneers and startups. The Government needs to invest more, subsidize and create incentives for banks and financial markets to invest in startups and digital talent.

The last thing that the World Bank expert emphasized is that Vietnam needs to strengthen the accessibility and quality of information.

He said that the three main solutions for digital transformation in Vietnam are: to have the right digital skills, the innovation capacity of businesses, and the ability to access and information quality and security. These are the factors that will determine whether Vietnam can catch up and surpass other countries in digital transformation.

According to digital transformation expert Tran Huu Quyen, Chairman of Posts and Telecommunications Industry Technology Joint Stock Company (a member of VNPT Group), for successful and effective digital transformation, people, employees and managers need to have the right digital skills.

Digital transformation of organizations and businesses in general and of Vietnam in particular is unprecedented, and businesses are different. Quyen believes that it cannot apply models and experiences from other businesses in a mechanical and rational way.

To perform digital transformation, Vietnamese businesses need to be proactive and creative in their activities. Broadly speaking, innovation capacity is essential to the existence and development of organizations and businesses today in the context of a globally integrated economy.

Tran Huu Quyen, Chairman of Posts and Telecommunications Industry Technology Joint Stock Company

Business leaders need to change their thinking and awareness about digital technology and digital transformation, thereby leading to the preparation of capacity and determination to perform digital transformation.

Organizations and businesses need to seriously build a roadmap with corresponding digital transformation programs for each field and each period. Along with that is the serious implementation of investment in technology infrastructure and human resources to the adjustment of operating models.

Vietnam to successfully perform digital transformation to become a digital country

Hoang Anh Tu, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department (Ministry of Information and Communications), affirmed that digital transformation and digital economy development based on the development of science and technology is the path that Vietnam has chosen.

The Vietnamese government has issued the National Digital Transformation Program with three pillars: digital government, digital economy and digital society. Vietnam targets having 100,000 digital technology enterprises. The digital economy will contribute 20% of GDP; Vietnam will be the best place in the region for digital businesses to do business and succeed; and Vietnam will become a digital nation by 2025.

According to Hoang Anh Tu, there are two things that will definitely happen. The first is digital transformation development of digital technology, and the second is that Vietnam will overcome the challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic and soon return to a new normal.

"Each report will look at the road to the future from a different perspective. But all the roads will eventually lead to one thing in common, which is a prosperous and happy Vietnam," he said.

Trong Dat
If the government takes the initiative in providing sufficient and accurate information, fake news will have nowhere to exist, said Le Quang Tu Do, Deputy Head of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information.

Le Quang Tu Do, Deputy Head of the Authority of Broadcasting and Electronic Information

On September 3 evening, during the Dan hoi, thanh pho tra loi (People ask, citys leaders answer) livestream, Hoang Tung, Thu Duc City Mayor, spoke to a citizen via phone about the aid package for people who have difficulties because of Covid-19. Tung gave clear explanations about the support package the man received in the first phase and promised to consider the peoples wish to receive more support.

A leader talking directly via phone with citizens to explain burning issues had never happened in the past. With answers that go directly to the point, Dan hoi, thanh pho tra loi program has caught the public's attention.

VietNamNet spoke with Le Quang Tu Do, who, with MC Quyen Linh, has been hosting the program since its first broadcast.

Was the call by Thu Duc Citys Mayor to a citizen on live broadcast a part of the scenario prepared in advance?

Dan hoi, thanh pho tra loi is a program with real people and real stories, with no scenes arranged. People send questions to the program in advance. We will shortlist the questions to be sure they are issues of the publics biggest concern. Leaders also reply to the questions raised during the livestreams.

To date, three HCM City leaders have made direct calls and answered peoples questions.

The direct phone calls and the real stories of real people help consolidate peoples confidence in the local authorities. In addition, the city can carry out the large-scale Covid-19 relief program.

The program has gathered 1.6 million registrations for welfare bags and sent to districts authorities for treatment. Thanks to this, the disbursement of money and delivery of welfare bags to people has been going very rapidly. Just within one week, one million bags were distributed.

How has the direct contact between the citys leaders and people via phone created the connection between policies and real life?

This is a program for the local authorities to directly listen to peoples problems, wishes and complaints. All the opinions of people must be conveyed in the most truthful way.

When a TV Program is created, we usually leave out names, addresses and telephone numbers. But such programs can only help disseminate policies and give answers to general issues during the process of implementing the policies. But Dan hoi, thanh pho tra loi is different. There must be real people with real stories.

Currently, the program is broadcast on 13 fanpages and two YouTube channels. The comments on four major channels have reached 200,000, which shows peoples high interest in the program.

Via the communication channel, local authorities have discovered and helped many needy people.

The city has set new policies, reducing some requirements on people to receive welfare bags. Previously, in order to receive support, people had to satisfy more requirements and criteria and had to have many things certified. The procedure is now very simple.

HCM City Vice Mayor Vo Van Hoan said on the program that the criteria people need to have to receive support are very simple. First, they have lost their job. Second, they are living in isolated areas and cannot go to work. Third, they have problems in getting food.

Businesses which have been hit hard by Covid-19 also ask for help via this channel. They have made suggestions related to tax policies, debt payment extension, and adjustments of travel permits to create favorable conditions for their workers to go to work.

The program has done a lot of significant things. Is there anything you still feel unsatisfied about?

First, the program has given a push to local authorities at different levels, encouraging them to use a new communication tool to access people. These tools are social networks and livestreaming, which have been used by many people in society but have not been used by the local government.

That is why they turn out to be a fertile land for fake news to spread. If the government provides official and accurate information right in the land where fake news is spread, fake news wont be able to exist.

Second, the local government is doing what it never did in the past.

Third, the program provides good input for leaders to consider and design policies.

There are some existing problems, but they are not considerable.

Hai Dang
There was good news on September 4: A flight carrying 297 Vietnamese citizens from Japan landed at Van Don airport in Quang Ninh province. The passengers were fully vaccinated with two doses of Covid-19 vaccine.

A "vaccine passport" policy was piloted by the Ministry of Health in Quang Ninh province in late June, but the first flight for passengers with the vaccine passport was organized in September. It is hoped that commercial flights will again connect Vietnam with the world, instead of limited rescue flights.

The first "vaccine passport" flight landed at Van Don airport on the afternoon of September 4.

This is needed to "actively attack" the Covid-19 epidemic, instead of struggling with the familiar tracing and zoning measures.

With that perspective, the recent proposal of the Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Dinh Tien Dung was sent to the Ministry of Health on specific instructions for those who have been fully vaccinated to be allowed "to travel, to work and to participate in epidemic prevention and control".

This view was also agreed to by Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen in the context that Ho Chi Minh City is looking for a plan to restore the economy. "We cannot continue to impose complete social distancing forever, nor wipe out Covid-19 patients, and instead we will gradually open up, live in the new normal, in epidemic conditions," he said.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said: "It is impossible to blockade forever. It is necessary to adapt safely to the epidemic."

Thus, the concerns of Vietnamese leaders are very urgent and practical because as long as economic stagnation remains, losses to livelihoods and production and business will exist. If we don't find a way to solve it early, the consequences for businesses, banks, labor, jobs and social stability cannot be measured.

According to the Covid-19 Vaccine Immunization Portal, more than 22 million doses out of a total of nearly 30 million Covid-19 vaccine doses received have been administered. Nearly 30% of people 18 years of age and older have been vaccinated and more than 3.2 million people have been fully vaccinated with two doses.

More vaccines will arrive and the number of fully vaccinated people will increase significantly. This is a valuable workforce. The southern province of Dong Nai, with 62,000 fully vaccinated people, is considering allowing these people to go out, even though the province is implementing social distancing under Directive 16.

Ho Chi Minh City plans to recruit and pay salaries for recovered patients to take part in the care of Covid-19 patients to reduce the workload on the health sector. This number has reached nearly 200,000 people, according to official figures. Dr. Nguyen Van Tuan in Australia said the number of people in Ho Chi Minh City with Covid-19 could increase to 1.7-5.2 million.

Maintain resources

Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, former head of the Infection  Neurology Ward of the Children's Hospital 1, Ho Chi Minh City, said there are four groups of people who should be allowed to participate in production, business, and return to the new normal" life. They are: recovered Covid-19 patients; fully-vaccinated people; people who got the first dose of vaccine 14 days prior; and young families.

He explained: Because people who have recovered from the disease will not be infected again, if fully vaccinated people are infected, most will have no symptoms or mild symptoms. People who have received one dose of vaccine have a low risk of getting serious illness if they are infected. Young families, if infected, will also have mild illness.

If these people are allowed to return to new normal, it is a way to maintain resources to fight the epidemic and live with Covid-19. If we wait until at least 70% of the population are vaccinated to achieve herd immunity to re-open the economy, it will be very long. Right now, we need to restore and maintain production, business, and economic development.

Opinions of politicians and experts need to be considered soon by the Ministry of Health so that there is time to develop specific mechanisms and guidelines.

As for Hanoi, the number of people who have been fully vaccinated is only 200,000.

As of September 4, the total number of vaccines Hanoi received was just over 2.4 million doses. This is the first time the data has been made public by Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Dinh Tien Dung.

So far, the whole city has administered more than 2.2 million doses, reaching 26.65% of the population. Maximum vaccination capacity is up to 280,000 doses/day.

The citys leaders once again clarified: While the vaccination rate in the capital city is still low, it is imperative to strictly implement social distancing measures to protect the safety of people's lives, to prevent a strong outbreak leading to loss of control. Without vaccines, what can Hanoi do other than tightening social distancing?

But the proposal for fully vaccinated people to go to work should be researched and implemented as soon as possible.

Tu Giang

Turning point in thinking on Covid-19 fight Chairing an online meeting of the National Steering Committee for Covid-19 Prevention and Control with officials of 1,060 communes, wards and towns in 20 provinces and cities, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has issued a landmark directive.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attended and delivered remarks at the 7th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Summit held virtually on September 9. The following is the full text of his remarks.

Your Excellency Samdech Techo Hun Sen, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia,

Your Excellency Masatsugu Asakawa, President of the Asian Development Bank (ADB),

Esteemed GMS Leaders,

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is a pleasure for me to attend and deliver my remarks at the 7th Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Summit. On behalf of the Government of Viet Nam, I would like to extend to all Leaders and delegates my warmest regards and best wishes.

I highly appreciate the thoughtful arrangements made by the host country Cambodia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for this virtual Summit. Particularly, I welcome the presence of representatives from 31 international organizations and development partners as well as the business communities in and outside the region. Your participation is a clear indication of your keen interest, the important role of Cambodia and the development potential of the Mekong region.

This Summit takes place amid unprecedented developments in the global and regional landscape. The COVID-19 pandemic and non-traditional security challenges such as climate change, depletion of natural resources, and aging population, have been exerting far-reaching impacts on all aspects of social life and all countries.

This presents us with difficulties, but also opportunities for GMS members to demonstrate their efforts, determination, and solidarity in advancing cooperation and development. We fully endorse the Summits theme: Renewed Strength to Face the Challenges of the New Decade. We must not only face these challenges but also effectively respond to them.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The Greater Mekong Subregion plays a strategic role in the process of international integration and robust economic growth of Asia. This is where the first successful model for subregional cooperation in the Asian continent was introduced, and serves as the bridge between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, and the gateway linking China with ASEAN countries.

Over the past three decades, GMS cooperation, with the participation of all countries in the Mekong River Basin, has constantly expanded, proving its unique credibility and identity. The implementation of the 3C strategies, namely Connectivity, Community, and Competitiveness, helped create a GMS region where seamless connectivity was enhanced, people-to-people bonds were strengthened, and collaboration to address the common concerns of the region was advanced.

We have achieved encouraging results in the implementation of the Hanoi Action Plan 2018-2022. Notably, I commend the GMS prompt efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, improve the public healthcare system and assist the member economies in gradual economic recovery.

The achievements of GMS cooperation effectively reinforced the ASEAN Community-building and the shaping of an ASEAN-centered regional architecture, and further deepened the thriving ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership. We need to uphold multilateralism and cooperation based on equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit, thus contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world at large.

Let me take this opportunity to sincerely thank the ADB and development partners for the invaluable assistance, effective coordination, and efforts to galvanize resources for cooperation programs within GMS and with member countries, including Viet Nam.

Ladies and gentlemen,

It is essential for us to come up with strategic vision and solutions to substantively address urgent issues, while laying the foundation for rapid, sustainable, safe, inclusive, and comprehensive development in the next decade. With that in mind, I welcome the GMS Economic Cooperation Program Strategic Framework 2030 and the GMS COVID-19 Response and Recovery Plan 2021-2023.

As neighboring countries bonded together by mountains and rivers, sharing the legendary Mekong River, enjoying time-honored cultures and histories, close friendships and warm brotherly ties, GMS countries have a common interest and responsibility to join hands in addressing the common challenges of the region and support each other for shared development. While national efforts are the decisive factor, international cooperation is crucial to create breakthroughs. President Ho Chi Minh, the hero of national liberation and great man of culture, once said: Unity makes strength. The more challenges we face, the more we must stand united and and support each other to rise above them and jointly create the mettle, reputation, brand and long-lasting values of the GMS. At the same time, political trust and cooperation based on the principles of equality, consensus, mutual benefit, effectiveness and respect for international law will continue to be the prerequisite for GMS success.

On that note, I suggest that in the coming period, GMS cooperation should focus on the following six priorities:

First, prevent, reverse and control the pandemic. As the pandemic rages on, no one is safe while others remain infected with COVID-19, and no nation is safe while others still have to grapple with COVID-19. This is the time for us to step up close and effective cooperation to repel and contain the pandemic, while forming mechanisms in response to future communicable diseases. For the time being, it is important to promote access to Covid-19 vaccines and treatment drugs in an open, equitable and transparent manner, increase the sharing of vaccines through multilateral and bilateral mechanisms, and accelerate technology transfer to gain self-reliance in regional production of vaccines and treatment drugs for various diseases. Viet Nam is working to achieve full vaccine coverage as soon as possible.

Our government always considers the peoples health and lives our highest priority. Thus, I request the ADB to study the possibility of more flexible financing mechanisms to provide emergency assistance for countries to purchase vaccines, anti-viral drugs, and medical supplies, and help businesses from the GMS countries to quickly establish production lines of high-quality vaccines and treatment drugs. On this occasion, I would like to thank vaccine manufacturing countries, including China, for the assistance extended to other countries, including Viet Nam. Your support is invaluable amid the global vaccine shortage. I look forward to the continuation of such effort.

Second, prevent the disruption of regional supply chains amid the pandemic. It is essential to harmonize and simplify the process and procedures for customs clearance, and open green lanes in order to facilitate the cross-border movement of people and flow of goods, while meeting pandemic prevention requirements. I urge countries to refrain from imposing trade barriers and facilitate the movement of people and essential goods in line with our GMS commitments.

Third, create breakthroughs in building coherent and high-quality infrastructure, particularly in transport and energy, to address bottlenecks in development and enhance the competitiveness of the economy. On transport, we need to pursue the goal to complete the GMS transport, border gate and seaport network, with priorities given to the East-West and North-South economic corridors connecting the regions major economic hubs, and multimodal transport links between the seaport and waterway transport system with the land and railway network in the GMS. A typical example of which is the Viet Nam - Laos cooperation project on developing Vung Ang Port. On energy, efforts should be directed to renewable energy projects and regional electricity market development. GMS countries should study appropriate models and roadmaps for low-carbon energy transition. We also need to build capacity for cross-border power trading, operation of integrated power grids, and development of power infrastructure with the support of the ABD and development partners.

Fourth, promote digital transformation and the digital economy to create new drivers for economic recovery and growth and narrowing development gaps. Along with cooperation in digital infrastructure development, GMS countries need to: (i) advance cross-border e-commerce on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, thus promoting export, particularly the export of seasonal agricultural products. We need to increase dialogue on e-commerce and digital trade, and harness digital technology to accelerate post-pandemic recovery, particularly in trade and services. We should also (ii) enhance digital skills for businesses and workers; and (iii) work together to develop suitable legal frameworks for the rapid, healthy, oriented, effective and harmonious development of the digital economy for the common interest of the entire society.

Fifth, realize a green and safe GMS that effectively adapts to climate change. The Greater Mekong Subregion is faced with increasingly serious floods, droughts and saline intrusion. The GMS must become a role model for regional cooperation on green, safe, sustainable, and inclusive growth. We must work together to build a cooperation framework with a comprehensive roadmap and creative and concrete measures. Accordingly, our urgent need is to enhance climate change adaptation, disaster risk mitigation and cooperation in the sustainable management, development and use of rivers in the region, especially the Mekong River, in accordance with the goals of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Sixth, bolster the coordination between GMS and ASEAN, and other regional cooperation mechanisms, regional FTAs such as RCEP and agreements between ASEAN and partners, including China.We should encourage the engagement of development partners and the business community so that GMS cooperation can truly deliver tangible benefits to the people and businesses, and contribute to the development of each nation, the region and the world. On that note, I propose the organization of an annual GMS High-level Development Forum with the participation of GMS countries and development partners to review GMS cooperation and attract more resources and inputs from development partners.

Ladies and gentlemen,

Viet Nam always attaches importance to GMS cooperation and desires to strengthen the traditional friendship and cooperation with our brotherly neighbors, and join hands with you to build a more open, safe, peaceful, and prosperous Greater Mekong Subregion of sustainable development. As the founding member of GMS, Viet Nam remains committed to effectively contributing to the realization of GMS shared vision and goals.

It is our wish and firm conviction that given the identified strategic orientations, the determination of GMS governments, the support of the people and businesses, the companionship of the ADB and development partners, GMS cooperation will ever flourish, promoting the bond and mutual benefits among our peoples, and contributing to advancing peace and prosperity in the region.

Thank you for your attention.

I wish you all good health and the Summit great success./.
Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) Vuong Dinh Hue held talks with President of the European Parliament (EP) David Sassoli in Brussels, Belgium, on September 8.

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Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue (L) and President of the European Parliament David Sassoli pose for a photo ahead of their meeting on September 8.

Welcoming the Vietnamese leader, Sassoli highly valued the countrys role in the region, stressing the EP and Vietnam share common interests in multiple areas and that the EP wants to enhance all-round cooperation with the country in such fields as trade and investment, COVID-19 prevention and control, and response to climate change, including challenges to water resources, saltwater intrusion, and drought.

Hue affirmed that the European Union (EU) is a partner of leading importance in Vietnams foreign and international integration policies.

The two sides have maintained high-level meetings; signed and effectively implemented many important cooperation agreements such as the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and the Framework Participation Agreement (FPA); and maintained regular cooperation and dialogue cooperation mechanisms, thereby helping to lift the Vietnam - EU comprehensive partnership and cooperation, including the ties between the Vietnamese NA and the EP, to a new height, according to the Chairman.

At the talks, the two leaders discussed issues to further intensify the two parliaments ties so as to help develop Vietnam - EU relations more strongly for the sake of both sides.

To promote economic and trade links comprehensively, Hue expressed his hope that the EP will help promote its member parliaments ratification of the EU - Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) to step up investment cooperation while continuing to facilitate the implementation of the EVFTA.

Regarding collaboration in the COVID-19 combat, he thanked the EP, relevant agencies of the EU, and parliamentarians groups in the EP for supporting and assisting Vietnam in the fight. He also echoed the EPs viewpoint that only solidarity, sharing, and confidence of victory can help people address the pandemics consequences and return to a new normal life.

Particularly, Hue said, as the pandemic is developing more complicatedly, it requires stronger inter-regional (between ASEAN and the EU) and global cooperation to continue maintaining achievements in socio-economic development.

The talks between the leaders of the Vietnamese NA and the EP in Brussels on September 8.

He also voiced his hope that the EP will accelerate vaccine supply from Europe via the COVAX Facility and sharing of redundant vaccines, along with medical supplies and COVID-19 drugs, and cooperate with the country in vaccine production.

Vietnam is ready to make all-round preparations to become a regional vaccine production centre, the top Vietnamese legislator emphasised.

He also took this occasion to ask the EP to support the removal of the yellow card warning on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing against Vietnams fishery sector to help guarantee livelihoods for Vietnamese fishermen. He stated that the country has been exerting every effort to deal with the problem and gained positive outcomes.

With regard to bilateral parliamentary cooperation, the NA Chairman held that the achievements obtained so far should be promoted, and both sides should increase contacts at all levels.

Given this, he invited the EP President to visit Vietnam to discuss issues of common concern, including the establishment of practical and effective cooperation frameworks between the two parliaments.

For his part, Sassoli said the EVFTA is an exemplary cooperation model, adding that the EP has ratified the EVIPA and is promoting the remaining member parliaments ratification.

The EP sympathises with Vietnams current difficulties and will strive to seek vaccine and medical supplies for the countrys fight against COVID-19 as soon as possible, he noted.

The two leaders shared the view that relations between the Vietnamese NA and the EP are flourishing in both bilateral and multilateral channels, agreeing to increase the exchange of all-level delegations and share information and experience in parliamentary activities.

During the talks, the two sides exchanged views on issues related to international peace, security, and cooperation and underlined the role of international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in settling disputes and maintaining security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight.

They also agreed to closely coordinate and make active contributions to regional and international forums.

Following the talks, Hue received heads of the EPs Committee on International Trade (INTA), the delegation for relations with the countries of Southeast Asia and ASEAN (DASE), the EPs parliamentary friendship group. They looked into measures to reinforce ties in areas of common interest, including trade and EVFTA implementation.

Vietnamese NA Chairman meets with European Council President

Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue (left) and President of the European Council Charles Michel (Photo: VNA)

Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Vuong Dinh Hue and President of the European Council Charles Michel on September 8 agreed to further enhance cooperation between the two sides, emphasising the significant role of the Vietnamese legislature and the European Parliament (EP).

During their meeting in Brussels, Michel welcomed the working visit to the European Council and the EP by the Vietnamese delegation to discuss issues of shared concern across spheres, especially mutual support in the COVID-19 fight and post-pandemic recovery, and ASEAN-EU cooperation.

Pointing out the pandemics impacts on the progress and efficiency of the implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), he suggested the two sides work harder to optimise the deals potential.

Michel also shared his views on peace and security in Indo-Pacific and the rules-based order, and affirmed that the EU wants to expand and deepen cooperation with Southeast Asia, including Vietnam.

For his part, Hue said this is his first visit to Europe in his capacity as NA Chairman and on behalf of Vietnams high-ranking leaders in the new tenure, which demonstrates the importance Vietnam attaches to the EU and the EP.

The EU is a leading partner of Vietnam in terms of trade and investment, he said, noting that after more than one year of implementing the EVFTA, bilateral trade expanded 18 percent despite a range of difficulties caused by COVID-19.

The Vietnamese legislature has played an important role in the preparation, signing, ratification and implementation of the trade deal, and approved the revised Labour Code as well as the roadmap on joining fundamental conventions of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Hue said.

He suggested the European Council continue to support businesses of the two sides and urge parliaments of EU countries to soon ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

Hue called on the EU to assist and share its experience with Vietnam in such areas as sustainable development, digital economy, green economy, and high-quality personnel development.

Regarding the pandemic fight, Hue thanked the EU for its donation of 2.4 million doses of vaccines, saying he hoped that the European Council and the European Commission will prioritise Vietnam in accessing Europes vaccine sources via the COVAX Facility or sharing redundant vaccines, and provide the Southeast Asian nation with medical supplies and COVID-19 treatment drugs.

The top legislator said with its capacity and efforts to ensure vaccines for domestic demand and the region, Vietnam would like to receive the European Councils support for cooperation in vaccine production in the country.

Vietnam has made efforts to deal with illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, he said, calling for the European Councils support so that the European Commission will soon remove the yellow card against the country.

Vietnam also stands ready to cooperate with the EU in issues relating to human rights in the spirit of candidness, openness, mutual respect and understanding, he affirmed.

Hue also said Vietnam will continue to closely coordinate with the EU and the EP in multilateral cooperation mechanisms, and is willing to work as a bridge between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The EU side pledged to further assist Vietnam in the pandemic combat, including the access to COVID-19 vaccines and drugs, and medical supplies.

The two sides also discussed measures to lift the yellow card warning against Vietnams seafood products, and narrow differences in human rights-related matters.

For regional and international issues, they shared the view that in the face of COVID-19 and climate change, it is necessary to restructure the global economy and join efforts and actions to respond to climate change.

They voiced their support for an ASEAN region of stability, peace and prosperity, and maintaining security, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation on the basis of respect for international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

NA Chairman receives leaders of economic groups in Belgium

National Assembly (NA) Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue hosted separate receptions for representatives of several economic groups in Belgium on September 8 as part of his working trip to the European Parliament and Belgium.

At a meeting with Senior Director, International Government Relations at ExxonMobil (the US) Peter Lavoy, Hue appreciated the corporations efforts to implement and complete the signing of the agreement in principles on guarantee and commitments of the Government.

He said that Ca Voi Xanh (Blue Whale) project with a total investment of 20 billion USD to produce offshore natural gas in central Vietnam is an important condition for Vietnam to build and operate gas-fired power plants in the central region, suggesting ExxonMobil and the Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam) continue to work closely to maintain the schedule and bring the first gas flow ashore by 2024.

Vietnam's policy is to increase wind power, gradually reduce coal-fueled power, and increase liquefied petroleum gas, Hue said, asking the corporation to resume construction of refining and petrochemical projects in Vietnam, which are being delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The top legislator also asked Lavoy to urge the US government to donate more COVID-19 vaccines or transfer redundant vaccines to help Vietnam step up the fight against the pandemic, including in industrial parks, to ensure that supply chains are not disrupted.

Receiving Fabien De Jonge, member of the Board of Directors of Infra Asia Investment (IAI) which has invested 1.2 billion USD in industrial zones in Hai Phong city and Quang Ninh province, the Vietnamese leader hailed the companys intention to expand investment in Vietnam in the fields of renewable energy, wind and solar power.

During his meeting with Eddy Bruyninckx, a representative of International Port Engineering & Investments Limited (IPEI), Hue affirmed that Vietnam is paying special attention to developing the logistics industry. He spoke highly of the companys activities in Vietnam, particularly investment projects in industrial zones in Hai Phong and Quang Ninh.

He suggested the company and other partners continue to study and share experience in the construction of industrial parks with international standards, in order to attract more ODA capital.

Vietnam is committed to accompanying and creating favourable conditions for investors to invest and do business in the country, the NA Chairman added.

At the meetings, foreign investors appreciated Vietnam's efforts in socio-economic development and COVID-19 prevention and control. They also acknowledged the Vietnamese legislatures renovations in accompanying the Government, thus creating favourable conditions in terms of policies and laws for investors to invest and do business in Vietnam./.

Source: VNA
Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Vietnam from September 10-12, discussing cooperation in the COVID-19 fight and vaccine assistance.

Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Vietnam from September 10-12.

The announcement was made by the deputy spokesperson of Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Doan Khac Viet at a press briefing on Thursday.

Within the visit, the Chinese minister will co-chair the meeting of the 13th Steering Committee for Vietnam-China Bilateral Cooperation with Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh, hold talks with Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and pay courtesy calls on Vietnamese leaders, the spokesperson said.

At the steering committee meeting, the two sides will discuss measures to resolve existing issues and strengthen the relations between the two countries.

The two sides will also talk about COVID-19 prevention and control, vaccine assistance and supply of medical equipment, the spokesperson said.

The visit, which is made upon the invitations of Viet Nams Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, aims to continue to strengthen the Vietnam-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership for the interest of two countries people and for the peace, stability, cooperation and development of the region and the world, he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Le Van Thanh will attend and deliver remarks at the opening ceremony of the 18th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Trade and Investment Summit held in Chinas Nanning City on September 10 via video conference.

These are among the top 10 expos of China held annually since 2004. This year Vietnam will participate the most extensively among ASEAN countries with 80 businesses attending in person and 200 businesses via video conference.

The participating businesses will introduce and promote signature products of Vietnam including agricultural produce, food, woodworking products and consumer goods as well as promote the countrys investment environment and tourism.

Source: VNS
Pemeprap, a disease-prevention app invented by the students of FPT Can Tho University, allows users to be examined and diagnosed online. The app also gives suggestions on specialized examinations.

Pemeprap was the graduation thesis of a group of students at FPT Can Tho University, which was successfully defended in August.

The students  Le Nhat Quang, Vu Van Hoang, Kieu Hieu Thanh, Bui Nguyen Nguyet Tam and Nguyen Dang Quoc Khanh - said they developed the app to help people who have difficulties moving to medical units, especially amid social distancing.

Pemeprap diagnoses diseases based on natural language processing algorithms such as separating words and finding synonyms in Vietnamese language, then applies AI Deep Learning technology to make a diagnosis.

Users data is saved after each diagnosis (medical record) and is used during the "re-learning" process to improve the accuracy rate for the following use.

The use is very simple. Patients need to download the app to their smartphones and carry out five steps: 1/describe their symptoms 2/wait for data to be processed 3/receive a diagnosis for the first time 4/waiti for doctors confirmation and 5/ receive doctors prescriptions.

Users can have their health examined with virtual doctors. After entering information about the disease symptoms into the system, a chatbot will use AI Deep Learning to analyze the data provided and give the first diagnosis, including the name of diseases, description of symptoms, advice and prescriptions.

After that, doctors will log in the system and confirm the diagnoses, prescriptions through the chatting text between patients and chatbot. If the information given by chatbot is inaccurate, doctors will amend the diagnosis and prescriptions, and give final conclusions. Patients can contact the doctors who confirm the diagnoses.

Pemeprap also diagnoses common diseases from a distance by voice or text. It allows users to use voice if they have difficulty in using the keyboard. It can save the history of the health examination sessions.

Dr Trinh Hoang Thanh, who gave medical advice to the group of inventors, said Pemeprap can help screen or predict diseases, and improve the knowledge about the diseases of patients.

According to Luong Hoang Huong, a lecturer at FPT Can Tho University, the application functions have been tested evaluated and it can predict the nine most common diseases. In order to commercialize this product, students should enlarge the data and experiment it with it first at a hospital facility or a private clinic so that doctors can know, use and provide other disease data to perfect the app.

Hue Anh

Minister of Information and Communications discusses digital transformation in education On the occasion of the new academic year 2021-2022, Minister of MIC Nguyen Manh Hung has written the following article about digital transformation in education.
As the Covid-19 pandemic is threatening the medical safety of all people living in Vietnam, AI tools and technologies have been actively exploited by several state agencies,

the medical staff to gradually manage every stage of this crisis in hope of bringing the country back to the new normal state as soon as possible.

Telehealth platform, exploiting AI technologies, has been welcomed by doctors nationwide lately.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui The Duy reported that immediately after the first Covid-19 cases were detected in Vietnam, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam requested that the Ministries of Health, Information & Communications, Science & Technology as well as experts in the fields to create useful technological tools to contribute to the fight against the disease.

Therefore, at the earliest stage of this fourth Covid-19 outbreak in Vietnam, domestic technological companies quickly developed useful software to detect infected people and track their contacts or to monitor illegal entrance into Vietnam at border regions.

One such prominent application is Bluezone, downloaded over 40 million times and regularly used by 25 million people nationwide. It has been able to deliver around 700,000 Covid-19 test results to users.

Health declaration has attracted much attention of the public as a mandatory procedure during the pandemic. Many functional agencies have cooperated to exploit AI technologies to collect real-time data from difference pieces of declaration software and then integrate them for better monitoring of infected or quarantined individuals, people coming from other countries.

Lately, the app So Suc Khoe Dien Tu has been introduced by the Health Ministry to manage Covid-19 vaccination information of all citizens, or the function Zalo Connect has been introduced for benefactors to help the needy in their neighborhoods during the social distance period in various regions in Vietnam. These apps use both AI and Big Data technologies.

The advanced technologies above are also exploited by scientists to develop patterns of pandemic spreading, to evaluate the risk level of each area, and to forecast potential disease hot spots.

On the way to implement the digital transformation process in the medical field, AI has been used effectively. For instance, the platform for distance medical diagnosis and treatment provision named Telehealth was launched around a year ago. It links local clinics of all districts in Vietnam so that experienced doctors can aid their colleagues in grassroots level to better treat patients in their local areas.

Over 600 diagnosis sessions and 200 training sessions were held on this platform to treat more than 1,600 cases. There were also 120 special diagnosis sessions to treat severe cases of Covid-19 to timely help over 1,800 patients to safely recover from the serious state.

Telehealth is highly appreciated by the whole medical staff as an innovative and extremely useful technological tool to minimize deaths in the fight against Covid-19, reduce the workload in high-leveled field hospitals, decrease direct contact between doctors and patients, and let grassroots-leveled doctors feel more confident thanks to the continuous help from their seniors.

It is planned that the National Technological Center for Covid-19 Prevention and Control will maintain the service of this common platform in the whole country to better satisfy the consultation need of local doctors. The Center will also keep using popular technologies in pandemic prevention and control tasks like declaring health, monitoring entrance to and exit from public places, tracking infection, performing quick tests, vaccinating citizens, monitoring quarantined people, and calculating the social distance level.

These technologies will form a special network to be introduced to all localities for the sake of consistency stability.

In the upcoming time, based on AI technologies, Vietnam is going to offer a vaccine passport to all citizens after the vaccination campaign finishes and electronic health reports are issued to all people.

Source: Sai Gon Giai Phong

AI tech's key role in fight against COVID-19 Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology is already playing a role in managing the current pandemic and could play an even bigger role in the future, according to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui The Duy.
All 33.1 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines shipped to Vietnam so far have been distributed to localities nationwhile, meeting 20 percent of the demand for the national vaccination plan, said the Ministry of Health.

Illustrative image.  File photo

Of the total, the ministry allocated more than 8.5 million doses to Ho Chi Minh City, 4.31 million doses to Hanoi, and more than 2.1 million doses to Binh Duong. The vaccination rates in these localities are 80 percent, 82 percent, and 65 percent, respectively

At national level, more than 24.1 million doses have been administered, with nearly 3.6 million people aged above 18 having been fully vaccinated.

On Monday, the Ministry of Health urged Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, and Long An to speed up vaccine rollouts as they are among 10 localities with lowest vaccination rates compared to the vaccines available.

As of September 15, all adult populations in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Long An provinces must be vaccinated against Coronavirus with at least one shot, the ministry ordered.

Source: VGP
Lieutenant General To An Xo, the Ministry of Public Security's spokesperson, said that more than 2,400 police officers contracted Covid-19, including six officers who died of Covid-19 while they were in duty in the fight against the pandemic.

On September 6, nearly 1,000 cadets and police officers went to the three southern provinces of Binh Duong, Dong Nai and Long An to help fight the epidemic.

Speaking at the Government press conference on Monday, Lieutenant General To An Xo said that since the 4th wave broke out (late April), the police force in the southern provinces have mobilized maximum manpower, with more than 100,000 officers, to participate in epidemic prevention on all fronts.

Many officers have been working without rest for three months, working almost round the clock. Following the Prime Minister's direction on mobilizing forces to support Ho Chi Minh City and the southern provinces to fight the epidemic, the Ministry of Public Security sent more than 5,000 officers, over 2,500 police school students and over 600 medical staff of the police agencies to the south," Lieutenant General To An Xo said.

According to Mr. Xo, the Ministry of Public Security has identified "hidden" issues of security and social safety caused by the pandemic and has implemented prevention plans.

Lieutenant General To An Xo told VietNamNet on the sidelines of the press conference that in the fight against the epidemic, more than 2,400 police officers were infected with Covid-19, including six officers who died of the disease. Most of the officers have recovered, and some are being treated at hospitals of the Ministry of Public Security.

The People's Security Academy and the Peoples Police Academy under the Ministry of Public Security on September 6 separately sent nearly 1,000 cadets and officers to support the three southern provinces of Dong Nai, Long An and Binh Duong to cope with COVID-19 outbreaks.

Director of the People's Security Academy Le Van Thang announced that 300 cadets and officers were deployed to Dong Nai. They were equipped with necessary knowledge on pandemic and preventive measures and received at least one shots of vaccines.

Meanwhile, 50 cadets and officers of the Peoples Police Academy were deployed to Binh Duong Province and 150 others to Long An Province.

Major General Tran Minh Huong, Director of the Peoples Police Academy said that out of the cadets and officers, many already joined the supportive forces for Bac Ninh Province, which was the country's biggest COVID-19 hotspot in May.

Dong Nai, Long An, and Binh Duong provinces are struggling with high COVID-19 infections, having recorded 28,549, 25,085, and 132,433 cases, respectively.

Since the fourth wave of COVID-19 resurgence, the Ministry of Public Security have sent thousands of cadets and officers to support southern localities to combat the pandemic.

Thu Hang - Hong Nhi
Hanoi, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Phu Quoc are five destinations that Vietnamese tourists have kept in their wishlists while awaiting the recovery of tourism.

A corner of West Lake. (NDO Photo: T.Linh)

The complicated development of the Covid-19 epidemic caused tourism activities to be "frozen", however, the dream of travelling has not disappeared.

Data from Booking.com shows that Vietnamese tourists are opting for destinations closer to home, and most of them are domestic locations. In the past two months (July and August) the top destinations in Vietnam with the highest number of accommodations booked by Vietnamese people were Hanoi, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Phu Quoc, showing the love of resorting to big cities after weeks of staying at home to implement social distancing measures, along with the hope of discovering nature, culture, heritage and enjoying local cuisine.

Da Lat is second on the wishlist of Vietnamese tourists post-pandemic.

For international destinations, Paris tops the wishlist of Vietnamese travellers.

Hotels are the most popular form of accommodation for Vietnamese tourists, followed by resorts and homestays.

Anthony Lu, Regional Director for China and Mekong for Booking.com, said that these are unprecedented and challenging times, but safety remains a top priority. In such times, the dream of experiencing the world again has great power to stimulate our imaginations and keep spirits positive.

Ho Chi Minh City impresses visitors with its street food and lively nightlife.

Coming to Hanoi, most tourists want to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter, street food, and traditional culture. When choosing Da Lat, visitors all want to enjoy the fresh air, scenery, and poetic nature of the mountain town. Ho Chi Minh City impresses tourists with factors such as street food, local dishes, and nightlife. Traveling to Da Nang, visitors want to experience beautiful beaches and meet friendly people. And coming to Phu Quoc, visitors want to experience beautiful resorts and enjoy unique seafood dishes.

As for the dream of international travel, the big cities with many hotels that are most noted by Vietnamese tourists on their wishlists include Paris (France), Bangkok (Thailand), Singapore, Berlin (Germany) and Seoul (the Republic of Korea).

Source: Nhan Dan

Three Vietnamese cities among worlds greatest places of 2021: Time Three Vietnamese cities, including Hanoi, HCM City and Phu Quoc (Kien Giang Province), have been named among the worlds to 100 extraordinary destinations to explore in 2021, as voted on by the renowned US-based Time magazine.
The gentle brogues may linger on the ear in Waco Civic Theatres production Outside Mullingar, but its matters of the heart are perfectly understandable.

The 2014 John Patrick Shanley play, which opens the theaters fall productions in a two-weekend run starting Friday, concerns two widowed Irish farmers, Tony Reilly (Steve Cates) and Aoife (pronounced EE-fa) Muldoon (Glenda Hopper).

Shes carried a torch for him for years, though he scarcely has noticed, with both spending much of their time together talking about their farms near Mullingar, their livestock and their children, Tonys son Anthony (WCT executive director Eric Shephard) and her daughter Rosemary (Chris Gibson).

Its 2008 and its their adjoining farms, actually a 40-meter strip of property between them, thats at issue, with the children urging their parents to take a stand and protect their land. But, well, theyve known each other forever and ...

If you think you know where this is going, director Melissa Green would advise you this isnt a Hallmark Channel production, but a play from the same pen that wrote Doubt, which saw a 2008 film adapation, and the 1987 movie Moonstruck, which won an Academy Award for Cher.
Governor Abbott, Attorney General Paxton and (Texas Education Agency) Commissioner (Mike) Morath need to get their stories straight, Kincannon said. The state told a court in Dallas that neither the governor nor the attorney general would be enforcing the mask provisions of the governors executive order. The Texas Education Agency told school districts that the mask provisions wouldnt be enforced while litigation was ongoing. Now, the attorney general is making threats on Facebook.

Midway ISDs response to the letter is that it should not be on the list of schools with mask mandates, spokesperson Traci Marlin said. River Valley Intermediate School Principal Paul Offill over the weekend announced a 10-day directive to use face masks after high COVID-19 numbers at the campus.

As of Wednesday, the school had 41 cases of COVID-19, making it the biggest hotspot in the district, which had a total of 240 cases.

We do not have a mandate, Marlin said Wednesday. There is no punishment and no mandate. Midway ISD should not be on that list.  If you listen to what Paul Offill is saying, it is a request from that campus community to keep the doors open because of a higher number of COVID cases.

She said the directive, while voluntary, seems to be working in getting more children to mask up.
The company will also be required to host or participate in at least one vendor fair annually, according to a city council summary of the deal.

City Council Member Andrea Barefield said she got the idea for a STEAM center in East Waco when one of her sons went to an event at a Best Buy Teen Tech Center in Dallas in late 2018. It is in a city of Dallas recreation center and had has video recording equipment, editing space, a recording studio and a sound booth along with computer equipment for various technology fields.

Barefield said the city council asks industry leader what kind of workforce they will need in five to 10 years.

Those are the things we will infuse within the edutainment facility that is people for children and young people, advancing them in STEAM, she said.
He said the ceremony will include a moment of silence, remarks and the respectful playing of the national anthem by a local guitarist.

What will not be tolerated are partisan political demonstrations.

Anybody here with petitions will be run off, Parker said.

A flyer proclaims the event serves to honor and remember those who died, those who served and those who carry on, referencing not only those who lost their lives on 9/11 but other first responders nationwide.

Parker, who lives in Lott, said he did not serve in the military. His son, Austin, did, traveling extensively as a helicopter mechanic in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Parker has formed the Stan C. Parker Foundation, which involves itself in programs to benefit military veterans, though not exclusively. His website says the charity is meant to assist those in need  with a culture of advocacy, support, charity, education and attaining joy through victory.

A cause it champions is rescuing animals in need of good homes. This goal stems from Parkers successful efforts to bring to Central Texas a stray dog that U.S. Marines stationed in Afghanistan claimed as their own. Finishing their deployment in 2010, they worried about the dogs fate in their absence.
BERLIN (AP)  Germany's foreign minister arrived in Libya on Thursday to reopen the country's embassy in Tripoli.

Today, we want to show with the reopening that Germany is and will remain a committed partner of Libya, Heiko Maas said upon his arrival in Tripoli. We want to have a voice in the Libyan capital again.

German diplomats left Libya in 2014 due to the country's instability and spiraling violence and worked from neighboring Tunisia.

In 2011, a NATO-backed uprising toppled and later killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi and led to the collapse of order in the North African country. The oil-rich country was long divided between a U.N.-supported government in the capital, Tripoli, and rival authorities based in the countrys east, each backed by armed groups and foreign governments.

In April 2019, eastern-based commander Khalifa Hifter and his forces, backed by Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, launched an offensive to try to capture Tripoli. Hifters 14-month campaign collapsed after Turkey stepped up its military support of the U.N.-backed government with hundreds of troops and thousands of Syrian mercenaries.
The frighteningly archaic, unworkable and very likely unconstitutional anti-abortion law out of Texas has thrust the issue back into the political foreground and atop the heaping pile of policy issues President Biden is going to have to address  mostly without much help from Congress.

To be blunt, the law is bad for many reasons, and I say this as a conservative who very much dislikes abortion. Back to that in a minute.

But one of the most deleterious effects of the law, which effectively exempts Texas from the nearly 50-year old settled law decided by Roe v. Wade, is that it serves an underwhelming minority of American voters at the expense of the overwhelming majority.

Like nearly everything else in this hyper-partisan climate, the Texas law, and others before it, radically misrepresents the contours and the stakes of an important political issue. If you didnt know better, you might assume this is actually what most people want, or why else would it be a thing? Its simply not the case  not even in Texas.

Yes, America is predictably divided on abortion. According to Gallups latest polling, 49% of Americans consider themselves pro-choice, and 47% consider themselves pro-life.
Empty Cupp

Never have I read a column so one-sided, misleading and full of distortion as S.E. Cupps column entitled How Biden got it so wrong [Sept. 3]. She begins by calling it an epic miscalculation. Well if it was, then it was the Trump administration that miscalculated, not Biden. She goes on to state, And yes, theres a reason Obama  and Trump  couldnt just quit Afghanistan. But thats exactly what Trump did. He negotiated a deal with the Taliban that involved releasing 5,000 Taliban prisoners including their leader, Abdul Ghani Baradar, who may become Afghanistans next president. Then he announced that our longest war was over and all American forces would leave Afghanistan by May 1, 2021. There was no plan in place for the orderly evacuation of American civilians and our allies. Thats what Biden inherited on Jan. 20.

It should have come as no surprise that the current Afghan government would quickly collapse and the Taliban would take over. We were never going to install a pro-western democratic government in Afghanistan with any chance of surviving after we were gone. We fought and bled for 20 years chasing a fantasy. No one expected the Afghan army to collapse as quickly as it did, certainly not the military or the CIA. Previous administrations spent huge amounts of money training and equipping them. Again, none of this was Bidens doing.
RAYMOND  Candela Manrique Corral is the newest addition to Raymond Centrals senior class of 2022.

With graduation in mind, Candela, an exchange student from Madrid, will be roaming the halls of the high school with the goal of improving her English and gaining new experiences.

Candela landed in Omaha on Aug. 21 after a lengthy flight with a layover in Chicago where she was waiting on the tarmac for two hours. When she finally landed and greeted the host family shed be staying with for the 2021-2022 school year, Candela was just ready for some zs especially knowing that Madrid has a seven-hour time difference.

I was really tired, she said. I had a whole day of flying, and stress, and not knowing where to go.

For her host family, Jessica and Chuck Gotchal and their 7-year-old daughter BerLynn, they were just excited to have Candela. The family, who lives in Valparaiso, made the decision to become a host family after seeing a Facebook post from Aspect Foundation representative Julie Manes.
On September 9, 1072, Captain Charles Barbin DeBellevue, United States Air Force, a Weapons System Officer flying on F-4D and F-4E Phantom II fighters, became the high-scoring American Ace of the Vietnam War when he and his pilot, Captain John A. Madden, Jr., shot down two Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG 19 fighters of the Khong Quan Nhan Dan Viet Nam (Vietnam Peoples Air Force), west of Hanoi.

Captain DeBellevue was assigned to the 555th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 432nd Tactical Reconnaissance Wing, at Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base. With Captain Richard S. Ritchie, he had previously shot down four MiG-21 fighters using AIM-7 Sparrow radar-guided missiles. Then while flying a combat air patrol in support of Operation Linebacker, he and Captain Madden, aboard F-4D-29-MC Phantom II 66-0267, call sign OLDS 01, used two AIM-9 Sidewinder heat-seeking missiles to destroy the MiG-19s. These were Maddens first two aerial victories, but for DeBellevue, they were numbers 5 and 6.

Madden and DeBellevue had fired two AIM-7 Sparrow radar-guided missiles at a MiG-21 which was on approach to land at the Phuc Yen Yen airbase northwest of Hanoi, but both missiles missed. The MiG was then shot down by gunfire from an F-4E flown by Captain Calvin B. Tibbett and 1st Lieutenant William S. Hargrove (after two of their missiles also missed). The flight of Phantoms was then attacked by MiG-19s. DeBellevue reported:

We acquired the MiGs on radar and positioned as we picked them up visually. We used a slicing low-speed yo-yo to a position behind the MiG-19s and started turning hard with them. We fired one AIM-9 missile, which detonated 25 feet from one of the MiG-19s. We then switched the attack to the other MiG-19 and one turn later we fired an AIM-9 at him.

I observed the missile impact the tail of the MiG. The MiG continued normally for the next few seconds, then began a slow roll and spiraled downward, impacting the ground with a large fireball. Our altitude was approximately 1,500 feet at the moment of the MiGs impact.

 Aces and Aerial Victories: The United States Air Force in Southeast Asia 19651973, by R. Frank Futrell, William H. Greenhalgh, Carl Grubb, Gerard E. Hasselwander, Robert F. Jakob and Charles A. Ravenstein, Office of Air Force History, Headquarters USAF, 1976, Chapter III at Pages 104105.

After becoming the wars highest-scoring American ace, Chuck DeBellevue was sent to Williams Air Force Base, Arizona, for pilot training. He became an aircraft commander of F-4E Phantom IIs. He retired from the Air Force as a colonel in 1998, after 30 years of service.

DeBellevues F-4D, 66-0267, was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. It was reassembled with parts from other damaged Phantoms and is on display as a gate guard at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida.

F-4D-29-MC 66-7463, in which he scored his first and fourth kills with Steve Ritchie, is on display at the United States Air Force Academy. Like DeBellevue, this airplane is also credited with 6 victories. DeBellevues F-4E-36-MC, 67-0362, in which he and Ritchie shot down their second and third MiG 21s, was sold to Israel in 1973.

For more aviation anniversaries please visit www.thisdayinaviation.com
I have just returned from ten days at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. While the numbers are not in, it was surely a record-breaking event. I cant remember seeing that many airplanes there in the 35 years I have consistently attended.

One of the personal highlights for me this year was that my son, Job, made his first solo flight to the event in the family Taylorcraft L-2. Longtime readers may remember watching him grow up on the back of the magazine. Well, he is all grown up now, a certified warbird nut, a private pilot, and a commercial helicopter pilot. I had the opportunity to spend a lot of time sitting under the wing of his plane in the warbird area this year and had some great conversations with other young men interested in getting involved in flying warbirds.

Historically, the warbird movement has seen second (and sometimes third) generation warbird pilots. Some examples that quickly come to mind are Steven Hinton Jr., Taylor Stevenson, Ladd Gardner, and Evan Fagen. All are exceptional pilots who grew up watching their fathers operate warbirds. Learning from the best, so to speak. More recently, one of Jobs friends, Ray Brown, has followed in his fathers footsteps flying the family Beech C-45. As a community, we have done a great job of passing the torch to our children.

But what about those who arent blessed to have family warbird aircraft and the generational heritage of flying them? It struck me this week how many young people have the interest, but struggle with finding a way into the cockpit of warbirds, or even taildraggers. This is a challenge that our community should consider and each individually work to find a way to help grow our pilot pool. I consistently hear from my peers that they are concerned about the future of the warbird community due to a lack of interest from younger people. My argument is that there is plenty of interest, but there is an accessibility issue. Job has a young friend who has expressed to him on a number of occasions that he feels his dream to fly warbirds is a pipe dream. I am sure there are others out there. I believe it is up to each of us to find a way to help those that have an interest. It may be as simple as helping them find a way to get taildragger experience, or it may go as far as going dual in your trainer aircraft with a goal toward a solo.

Organizations like the CAF seem to have recognized the need for younger pilots and have provided opportunities to qualified younger members. This is a fantastic start and something that each of us can build on individually. I hope that you will join me in putting some thought into how you can help the young achieve a dream. If nothing else, you are expanding the potential future buyers for your aircraft asset!

Tim Savage





FEATURES
Un-garage sale set for Saturday

WATERLOO  Eye of the Needle will host an Un-Garage Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at 2207-2209 Falls Ave.

All items are free. No appointment is needed. Winter items will be available. Those attending are asked to bring a bag.

Masks will be required.

Fishing derby for kids Sunday

WATERLOO  The 52nd annual Izaak Walton League Fishing Derby for kids is from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.

The event will take place at 5519 Washburn Road, located between Washburn and Gilbertville. Registration begins at noon.

Children ages 12 and under are free. Free bait, hot dogs and pop will be available. Prizes will be awarded.

The Izaak Walton League and Hanks Bait are sponsors.

Water mains flushed today

WATERLOO  Waterloo Water Works will flush mains today in the area of Dysart and Shaulis roads and East Orange and Dysart roads to Applewood Drive.
For the set of similar peer universities, Woods said the most recent five-year average of graduation rates is 47%. UNIs five-year average is 66%.

UNIs graduation rates are based on students who begin at the university as freshmen and continue through graduation, some of whom finish ahead of the four-year schedule.

One in 14 of our new freshmen are now finishing in three years, said Woods, referring to the 7% rate, which is also a record for the university. Officials said the continued increases in graduation rates are a direct result of UNIs commitment to student success.

Not only are students graduating in less time, university officials pointed out they also have the second-lowest average debt of graduates from all four-year colleges and universities in Iowa. According to the Iowa College Aid Commission, UNIs class of 2019 had an average debt of $23,671 at graduation. Students at the states two other public universities had a debt load of more than $4,000 higher.

In addition to welcoming more freshmen, the campus community has seen record involvement in welcome week activities among new students this fall, with hundreds of students participating in the many social and educational events offered during the semesters opening weeks.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Military search dogs and goose-stepping trainers. Health workers wearing gas masks and red hazmat suits. And a slimmed down, beaming Kim Jong Un in a cream-colored business suit. The parade marking North Koreas celebration of its 73rd anniversary was a marked departure from past militaristic displays, with a domestic audience worried about the pandemic likely in mind.
Health experts have in recent weeks started to revisit vaccine distribution plans, with booster shots likely coming down the pike to bolster recipients immune systems as the highly contagious delta variant spreads. President Joe Biden's administration has said they will likely be recommended to everyone several months after they've completed the initial regimen. The administration is targeting the week of Sept. 20 as a tentative rollout date for booster shots, pending U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approval.

But there's still uncertainty about when boosters will be available to the general public and whether older adults will be prioritized, as they were during the initial vaccine rollout. Here's what older adults need to know about how to get a vaccine and what to expect from boosters.

Who can get a vaccine?

Pfizer's vaccine is approved for all Americans age 12 and up, and Moderna's and Johnson & Johnson's are available to anyone 18 and older. Pfizer's is currently the only vaccine that the FDA has moved from emergency use authorization status to full approval. All three vaccine manufacturers are investigating how younger populations respond to their shots, with Pfizer and Moderna expanding clinical trials to children between the ages of 5 and 11.

Where can I get a vaccine?

The federal government's Vaccines.gov website lets you search for locations by zip code, with links to appointments, and many sites permit walk-ins.

Many county health clinics, doctor's offices and pharmacies, including large chains like CVS, Walgreens and Walmart, are taking vaccine appointments, and lots of them offer walk-in vaccinations. Check the pharmacy sites for appointment and walk-in options. Veterans can get vaccinated through Veterans Affairs facilities. For residents and staff at long-term care facilities, vaccines are generally available on-site.

The mass-vaccination sites that popped up across the country in the early days of vaccine distribution have mostly closed.

Are there side effects?

Some people never develop side effects, but many experience injection-site pain, fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches or joint pain, among other symptoms. These reactions are temporary, but experts say you should avoid making big plans in the days following your appointment as a precaution.

More serious aftereffects, including a small number of allergic reactions, are rare. Johnson & Johnson's vaccine has been connected with rare, severe blood clots in a small number of recipients, especially in women 50 and younger.
Alamy Stock Photo

In a lawsuit filed in federal court, two midcareer workers allege drugmaker Eli Lilly discriminated against older job applicants in favor of hiring early career professionals and millennials instead. The litigation could become a nationwide class action lawsuit, which would open eligibility to many older applicants who were rejected in recent years.



According to the suit filed in a federal court in Indianapolis, newly appointed CEO David Ricks told Eli Lilly staffers in a company-wide conference call in April 2017 that he wanted workers who are millennials to be 40 percent of the companys overall sales force by 2020. In some cases, the millennial hiring quota was later raised to 100 percent if lower thresholds were not being met, the lawsuit alleges.

Eli Lilly believes younger applicants are better suited to be employed in a sales representative role, the lawsuit says. Because sales representative roles are primarily client-facing roles whereby sales representatives regularly interact with physicians who prescribe Eli Lilly products to their patients, Eli Lilly prefers that sales representatives to have a youthful appearance.

The plaintiffs allege that the companys bias denied them employment opportunities, specifically in the sales department of Lillys diabetes and primary care business units. The federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) bars employers from discriminating against people 40 and older, an age group that now includes the eldest members of the millennial generation, born between about 1981 and 1997.


Senex & New Century Resources agree new gas sales agreement

Brisbane, Sep 9, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Senex Energy Limited ( ASX:SXY ) ( FRA:UDB ) ( OTCMKTS:VPTOF ) today announced a gas sales agreement with Australian resources company New Century Resources Limited ( ASX:NCZ ) for the sale of around 7 petajoules (PJ) of natural gas over three years.New Century owns and operates the Century Mine, located approximately 250 kilometres north-west of Mount Isa, Queensland. New Century employs more than 250 people in the production of zinc concentrates, and exports to 12 smelters on three continents.Natural gas is to be supplied by Senex to New Century at the Diamantina Power Station in Mount Isa, generating the power required to operate the Century Mine. The Diamantina Power Station is owned and operated by APA Group.Under the three-year agreement starting 1 January 2022, Senex will provide around 7 PJ of natural gas to support New Century's processing operations at a fixed price, in line with current market levels. Senex will further supply around 1 PJ of additional natural gas at New Century's election by mid-2022 in support of material increases in production levels associated with the potential development of existing in-situ deposits at the Century Mine.Senex Managing Director and CEO Ian Davies said the company was proud to supply a strong regional Queensland customer with natural gas from its Queensland operations."Century Mine generates significant state royalties and export earnings and is a critical project in the Queensland Government's Strategic Blueprint for the North West Minerals Province."Senex looks forward to building another strong, long-term and mutually beneficial relationship that supports jobs, the economy and helps meet Australia's energy demand as it transitions to a lower carbon future."Senex also acknowledges APA as an important part of the value chain delivering energy to Mount Isa," Mr Davies said.This is the tenth major natural gas supply agreement announced by Senex since 2019. Senex has signed more than 75 PJ of agreements with customers including Adbri, CleanCo Queensland, CSR Building Products, Opal, Orora and Visy Glass.About Senex Energy Limited

Senex Energy Ltd (ASX:SXY) (OTCMKTS:VPTOF) (FRA:UDB) is an established, rapidly growing and low-carbon Australian natural gas producer. Our long life Surat Basin assets contribute around 20 petajoules of natural gas per year into the east coast gas market to support our customers. Senex is focused on sustainably delivering balance sheet strength, resilient cashflows, growing dividends to support Australia's energy needs as it transitions to a lower carbon future.


Australian Defence Security Certification

Sydney, Sep 9, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - DroneShield Ltd ( ASX:DRO ) ( FRA:DRH ) ( OTCMKTS:DRSHF ) is pleased to announce it has been granted Defence Industry Security Program ("DISP") certification by the Australian Defence Industry Security Office ("DISO"), following an extensive admission process.DISP certification enables DroneShield to work on classified information and/or assets, with the Australian Defence Force and Australian intelligence and law enforcement agencies.Oleg Vornik, DroneShield's CEO, commented, "DISP certification continues DroneShield's evolution past "selling boxes" and into working collaboratively with customers and defence primes on sensitive Australian Government requirements.While we already have individuals within the business with high-level security clearances, the DISP certification recognises that DroneShield, as a whole, has the required Information and Communications Technology ("ICT") and security infrastructure in place to deal with classified tenders and information.This will enable a wide variety of future opportunities, where previously we were simply ineligible to bid. DroneShield has already identified some of such opportunities and is actively engaged in pursuing them."About DroneShield Ltd

DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO) (OTCMKTS:DRSHF) is an Australian publicly listed company with its head office in Sydney and teams in the US and UK. We specialise in RF sensing, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Sensor Fusion, Electronic Warfare, Rapid Prototyping and MIL-SPEC manufacturing.

Our capabilities are used to protect Military, Government, Law Enforcement, Critical Infrastructure, Commercial and VIPs throughout the world.

Through our team of primarily Australian based engineers - we offer customers bespoke solutions and off-the-shelf products designed to suit a variety of terrestrial, maritime or airborne platforms.

DroneShield is proudly exporting Australian capability to customers throughout the world and supporting Australia's defence, national security and other organisations protect people, critical infrastructure and vital assets.

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Henderson Au-Ni Project Encouraging Results from AC Drilling

Perth, Sep 9, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Venus Metals Corporation Limited ( ASX:VMC ) is pleased to report the results of Phase 1 aircore (AC) drilling at its Henderson Gold-Nickel Project, located ca. 50km northwest of Menzies in the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia (Figure 1*). The reconnaissance drilling programme tested gold targets in areas with extensive cover that were identified by VMC in a recent geological review of the area (refer ASX release 8 May 2020).- The shallow AC drilling identified new gold mineralised zones at the Emerald South and Henderson Bore Prospects. Significant results include:- HBAC016 7m @ 1.13 g/t Au from 45m, including 1m @ 4.57 g/t Au from 49m- HBAC060 2m @ 2.2 g/t Au from 19m, including 1m @ 4.09 g/t Au from 19m- Further reverse circulation (RC) drilling is planned to test the lateral and depth extent of the newly discovered gold mineralisation and also to test previously identified gold targets in areas with shallow cover. This includes the historical Hilltop gold workings where exploratory rock-chip sampling of mullock returned 77.2 g/t Au and 2.4 g/t Au.The Henderson Au-Ni Project comprises five exploration licences covering an approximately 800 km2 area along the southern section of the Ularring (Mt Ida) Greenstone Belt. The current drilling is focussed on tenement E30/520 (90% Venus, 10% Prospector).Two regionally significant fault zones, the Ida Fault and Ballard Fault, transect the project area (Figure 1) and are considered to have played important controls on gold deposition. Significant gold mines associated with those structures in proximity to the Henderson Project include the historical First Hit Mine (Viking Mines; 7km south) the Riverina Mine (Ora Banda Mining; 15km south) and the historical Bottle Creek Mine (30km north) (Figure 1*). Historical gold workings within the general project area include the Hilltop Mine and Emerald Mine (excised from VMC tenement).The Mt Ida (Timoni) Gold Mine (Ora Banda Mining), currently the subject of a purchase agreement by TNT Mines Ltd (refer TIN ASX release 7 September 2021), is located about 35km northwest from tenement E30/5.Current Drilling and ResultsA Phase 1 AC drilling programme was conducted in July 2021 (refer ASX release 5 July 2021) and comprised 61 drill holes for a total of 2006m drilled. A summary plan view of collar locations is provided as Figure 2 and drilling details are listed in Table 1*. Assay results over 40 ppb Au are reported in Table 2*. The drilling was reconnaissance in nature and targeted six areas with extensive soil cover on tenement E30/520. The areas were selected based on structural setting and historical soil geochemistry.The results of the drilling programme are considered very encouraging with three drillholes from two different areas returning gold assays over 0.5 g/t (500 ppb) (Table 2*). Best results of 7m @ 1.13 g/tAu, including 1m @ 4.57 g/t, were reported from hole HBAC016 located about 1 km south and along strike from the historical Emerald Gold Workings (excised from E30/520). A preliminary sectional interpretation of the AC drill line containing HBAC016 indicates the presence of a gently easterly dipping zone of mineralisation that is open at depth (Figure 3).Drillhole HBAC060, drilled at the Henderson Bore Target Area (Figure 2*), intersected significant gold mineralisation at a down-hole depth of 19m (2m @ 2.2 g/t Au, including 1m @ 4.09 g/t Au).Due to limited drill rig availability, only one hole was drilled at this site and further drilling is required to properly delineate this mineralisation.Ongoing WorkPhase 1 AC drilling targeted the oxidised upper section of the regolith. A follow-up programme of reverse circulation (RC) drilling is planned to test the continuation of gold mineralisation in fresh rock. A total of six target areas have been selected for RC drill testing (Figure 2*). They include the Emerald South and Henderson Bore Targets but also include previously identified targets under shallow cover at Blue Well and Snake Hill (Figure 4*; refer ASX release 8 May 2020).Of particular interest is the Hilltop gold prospect. Two specimen rock-chip samples collected by VMC from mullock near the old workings assayed 77.2 g/t Au and 2.4 g/t Au respectively (Table 3*), highlighting the potential for narrow high-grade gold mineralisation in that area.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About Venus Metals Corporation Limited

Venus Metals Corporation Limited (ASX:VMC) is a West Australian based Company with a focus on gold and base metals exploration. The Company aims to increase shareholder value through targeted exploration success on its projects.

The Company's major gold project is the Youanmi Gold Mine, located 500km north east of Perth. The Youanmi Gold Mine is now jointly owned by Venus Metals (30%) and Rox Resources Limited (70%) (OYG JV); Indicated and Inferred Resources of the mine is 1.7 million ounces of gold.

Exciting new discoveries at the Youanmi Gold Mine have been made at the Grace prospect in footwall granites where very high grades of free milling gold have been intersected, including 25m @34.7g/t Au from 143m (RXRC 287) and 13m @60.49 g/t from 181m (RXRC 239). The Grace Prospect may substantially add to the Youanmi Gold Mine resources.
PORTLAND, Ore.  A Texas man pleaded guilty Wednesday to assaulting a federal officer with a hammer outside the federal courthouse in Portland, Oregon, last summer during a protest.

Jacob Michael Gaines was arrested on July 11, 2020, after he banged a hole in plywood covering an entrance to the Mark O. Hatfield U.S. Courthouse, The Oregonian/OregonLive reported.

When a deputy U.S. marshal went to arrest Gaines, Gaines used the hammer on the marshal, swinging and striking him with it, according to Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Cardani.

Gaines struck the marshal in the shoulder and upper back with the hammer before other members of a U.S. Marshals tactical team took Gaines to the ground and arrested him, according to court records.

Gaines pleaded guilty to one count of felony assaulting a federal officer with a deadly and dangerous weapon. He told the judge Wednesday that the account of what happened was accurate.

Under a plea deal, Cardani said he will recommend Gaines be sentenced to just over three years in prison, largely because of his acceptance of responsibility and limited criminal history.

Gaines remains in custody at the Columbia County Jail. His sentencing is set for Dec. 13.

Federal agents used freeze frames of video obtained from a Twitter account to document the allegations against Gaines, the prosecutor wrote in court records.

Cardani described Gaines as unemployed and living in a bus with his wife in North Portland and said he has moved back and forth between Texas, Portland and Bend, Oregon. He said Gaines has said he had guns in his bus and suffers from mental health issues, according to court records.

Gaines told the court Wednesday he is now taking medications for his mental health but that he understood the ramifications of his guilty plea.

Gaines is among a handful of defendants who have pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from arrests related to nightly protests against police brutality in Portland last year that began after the police killing of George Floyd, a Black man in Minneapolis.

Of a total of 96 federal protest-related prosecutions, about 62 have been dismissed. About 30 cases are pending. Four people have been sentenced, according to Kevin Sonoff, a spokesman for Oregons U.S. Attorneys office.

The pending prosecutions include defendants charged with civil disorder, destruction of government property, arson and assault on a federal officer.
DETROIT  President Joe Biden glossed over important details and oversimplified the facts in his boast about support from the United Auto Workers union for his effort to dramatically increase sales of electric vehicles by decades end.

In his remarks Wednesday, Biden failed to say that UAW did not endorse the EV targets he set in an executive order signed last month. The unions support is also dependent in part on robust government support for union-made cars in the form of tax credits in legislation pending in Congress  something that is far from guaranteed to happen.

A look at the claim:

BIDEN, praising the work of UAW members: The main Big Three (automakers) have decided along with the support of those unions on building, going electric, so we own that market.

THE FACTS: Not exactly. While UAW has expressed general support for more EV sales, it has repeatedly declined to back goals urged by Biden as part of his ambitious plan to combat climate change, including the 40% to 50% target agreed to by the largest automakers.

Biden last month announced his plan to own the EV market over foreign competitors, signing an order setting a goal that half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 will be zero-emissions vehicles, which environmental groups say is needed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. That would be a seismic shift in the U.S. from internal combustion engines to battery-powered vehicles.

Transportation is the single biggest U.S. contributor to climate change.

The United Auto Workers union, in fact, has voiced concerns about being too hasty with an EV transition because of the potential impact on industry jobs. Since electric vehicles generally have 30% to 40% fewer parts and are simpler to build, fewer workers will be needed to assemble them. That will likely mean a reshuffling of jobs, as workers who once made engines, transmissions and other components for gas-powered cars have to switch to electric motors and batteries.

At the signing of Bidens order, UAW did not endorse a target, pointedly saying it stands behind the president to support his ambition not just to grow electric vehicles but also our capacity to produce them domestically with good wages and benefits.

Both UAW and the Big Three automakers  Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler  have made clear that a dramatic shift can only happen with incentives for electric vehicle purchases, adequate government funding for charging stations and money to expand electric vehicle manufacturing and the parts supply chain.

In a bipartisan infrastructure bill awaiting congressional passage, there is $7.5 billion for grants to build charging stations, about half of what Biden originally proposed. He also had wanted $100 billion for tax credits and rebates to entice people into buying electric vehicles. At least some of that money was expected to be incorporated in a $3.5 trillion spending bill that is facing resistance in Congress.

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Krisher is an Associated Press auto writer.

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EDITORS NOTE  A look at the veracity of claims by political figures.

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Find AP Fact Checks at http://apnews.com/APFactCheck

Follow @APFactCheck on Twitter: https://twitter.com/APFactCheck
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The number of homicides investigated by the Albuquerque Police Department has decreased  again  after investigators found one person initially thought to be a homicide victim died from a methamphetamine overdose and another jumped from a moving car.

APD spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said the deaths of Shawn Nelson, 36, and Selena Belin, 22, are no longer considered homicides.

The changes drop APDs total homicide count to 82.

Gallegos also said a Monday slaying where a tobacco shop employee fatally shot a fleeing man following an alleged robbery attempt has detectives leaning heavily toward self-defense.

The other cases played out months ago.

Gallegos said Belin died from head injuries after she fell out of a moving car on Feb. 8 near Osuna and San Pedro NE. He said the driver told detectives the two were fighting when Belin jumped out of her own volition.

Detectives conducted further investigation to corroborate the drivers statements, Gallegos said.

He said, on April 30, Nelson died at the hospital a week after being admitted following a beating in the 1100 block of Madeira SE. Gallegos said the Office of the Medical Investigator discovered Nelson died of a meth overdose.

He said there are four other homicide cases that could change in status based on final reports from OMI and/or further investigation.
When it comes to filmmaking, Michele Civetta puts his all into it.

In the case of his latest project, The Gateway, Civetta not only directed the feature film, but he also added a writing credit to his name.

I like to think the film is a thinking piece, he says. Its a genre piece, and it taps into the crossroads of humanity.

The Gateway, stars Shea Whigham, Olivia Munn, Frank Grillo and Bruce Dern.

It follows Parker, played by Whigham, who is a down-on-his-luck social worker who finds himself over his head when he tries to protect his client, played by Munn, from her recently paroled husband.

Parker tries to save the family from the violent threat of the maniacal drug dealer and his crew. The film is available for rent and to buy on digital platforms.

Civetta says while Parkers story is at the forefront, he also wanted to tie in some more subjects.

As we get into the cartel story, theres more about drug trafficking, he says. Then we have Bruce Derns backstory on how hes a Vietnam veteran and looking for help. With the film noir genre, were able to touch on all these angles to the film and do them justice.

The production shot for 34 days in St. Louis, before the pandemic.

He says that, during production, he had to keep a keen eye on how long scenes were taking.

The cartel scene in the film took nearly three days to shoot, he says. Because of that, we tightened the story and made sure that we had enough material to pull from. Each day was important, and we needed to get a lot done.

Civetta also didnt have a huge budget for the independent film but was able to get an ensemble cast hes proud of.

Its amazing when it all comes together, he says. The cast that we got was amazing. Shea had a lot to do with it, as he was the first signed on to the film. He got involved, and it raised the caliber and piqued the interest of other actors. Olivia brought a lot of her truths to her character, and the house of cards kept building.

Civetta says Parker is a hero in the story.

Hes been through trauma and is still trying to process it, Civetta says. His life has been full of obstacles, and hes trying to be a good person. I think if there was a message to this film, its that you have to trust in the path.

Online

Michele Civettas feature film The Gateway is available to rent or stream on digital platforms.
New Mexico is doing its share when it comes to accepting Afghan refugees fleeing their home country after the Talibans swift takeover there as U.S. troops pulled out.

Evacuees are being taken to Fort Bliss, Texas, but are housed across the state line at the military bases Dona Ana Range Complex in New Mexico. Others are arriving at Holloman Air Force Base, near Alamogordo.

Mula Akbar, a former State Department diplomat who owns a restaurant in Albuquerque, said hes proud to see New Mexico stepping up and helping human beings in a desperate situation.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham recently sent a letter to President Joe Biden to say New Mexico has a proud tradition of welcoming refugees from around the world with open arms, and we make no exception for the people of Afghanistan.

A bipartisan group of at least 12 other governors from states including California, Arizona, Utah and Massachusetts has likewise offered to take the refugees, who include thousands and thousands who worked with, or otherwise helped, Americans during the 20-year war in Afghanistan, and who fear reprisal from the Taliban.

Religious and other aid groups in southern New Mexico are soliciting clothes and other basic supplies, Archbishop of Santa Fe John C. Wester has called for volunteers and professional staff to provide social services and health assistance to the Afghans, and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said, We want to make sure that theres a home in Albuquerque for everyone who can get here.

But in this era of political polarization, even the idea of taking in people who fear theyll be killed for providing assistance to Americans in a war zone can be reason for a partisan jab. U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell, New Mexicos only Republican in Congress, and whose district includes both Holloman and the New Mexico part of Fort Bliss, decided to blast Lujan Grisham for being so welcoming so quickly.

Remember, the Afghan evacuees are being housed on military bases, not dumped into the streets of American cities, for now. More recently, Herrell said, We dont know how much this is costing us, and whos going to shoulder the cost and if there will be medical attention.

But Herrell is right in that there needs to be a solid vetting process before Afghans are resettled into the general population, particularly given the rushed, chaotic and deadly way the withdrawal played out.

The job of vetting evacuees has been turned over to the Department of Homeland Security. The White House maintains that the process will be extensive, while acknowledging that the lack of passports and other documents among some refugees will make things more difficult. Already, there is concern about reports of older Afghan men evacuated with young girls they claimed as brides or who were otherwise sexually abused.

Vetting will include study of biometric data on physical characteristics, and review by numerous government and law enforcement agencies, including the Defense Department, the FBI, the National Counterterrorism Center and the intelligence community.

NATO helped, but the Afghan war was foremost our war, and caring for these refugees must be our responsibility first. Still, Biden administration officials say they will work with allies and other partners to resettle at-risk Afghans in third countries.

Its good that most New Mexico leaders appear to be thinking first about welcoming, and helping, Afghans who helped us fight the Taliban for so long. We owe them that.

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.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Its beginnings were humble, but proud and brave too.

An American flag, assembled secretively and at risk in a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp, was fashioned out of pieces of red blanket, white bedsheets and blue denim dungarees.

For 25 years, it was stored in a closet at the Albuquerque home of Joseph O. Jose Quintero, the American soldier responsible for its creation.

Then for nearly 30 years it traveled with Army Lt. Gen. Edward Baca to every U.S. state and territory and seven continents, as Baca told the story of the flag and the brave men who battled the Japanese in the Philippines before falling to the enemy during World War II.

Now this flag, its pieces once wrapped in canvas and buried in dirt to keep it concealed from Japanese guards, is on the way to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington.

One of the first places my father gave his speech about the flag was at the Smithsonian, said retired Col. Brian Baca, son of Lt. Gen. Baca, who died in September 2020.

He said then he would give the flag to the Smithsonian, and my fathers word was his bond.

Brian Baca, who is retired from the Army National Guard, and his sister, Karen Nielsen, who is retired from the Air Force National Guard, went to a New Mexico National Guard Strategic Planning Conference Wednesday at Albuquerques Hotel Andaluz to tell the flags story to soldiers and airmen.

We couldnt let the flag leave New Mexico without doing something like this, Brian Baca said. It was awesome to be telling this story for the last time in front of these soldiers.

The flag was scheduled to be handed off to Smithsonian representatives in Albuquerque on Wednesday afternoon. There are plans to make a replica of the flag, which would be kept in New Mexico.

Quintero died in Albuquerque at age 82 in November 2000. According to his obituary, he was born in Fort Worth, the oldest of nine children. He moved to Albuquerque in 1946 and worked as a research technician with the federal government.

During World War II, he served as a corporal with the U.S. Armys 60th Coastal Artillery Regiment on Corregidor. Like the many New Mexicans serving in the 200th and 515th Coastal Artillery regiments in Bataan and Corregidor, the men in the 60th were overcome by the Japanese in the spring of 1942.

They held back the Japanese for months, Brian Baca told the National Guardsmen on Wednesday. They were finally defeated by disease, hunger and lack of ammunition.

Many of the defenders of Bataan and Corregidor who survived the fighting, the forced marches after their defeat and initial imprisonment in the Philippines, were put on ships and transported, in hellish conditions, to prisoner-of-war and labor camps in Japan. Quintero was among those sent to Japan.

It took Quintero more than a year to make the flag. His fellow prisoners helped.

A Canadian soldier, a double amputee who had access to a sewing machine because he was tasked with mending the uniforms of Japanese soldiers, put the flag together.

Jose wanted to make the flag as a tribute to those who were dying around him, Brian Baca said. But if the Japanese had found it, it could have been death for not only him, but also for his comrades. Jose did not even know how many states were in the union or the significance of the 13 stripes. He had to ask an officer.

Santa Fe native Edward Baca was appointed adjutant general of the New Mexico National Guard by Gov. Toney Anaya in 1983, and in 1994 he was promoted to lieutenant general and appointed chief of the National Guard Bureau by President Bill Clinton.

In the early 90s, Gen. Baca was speaking to a group of Bataan and Corregidor survivors at an Albuquerque hotel, when Jose Quintero approached him with his flag, told Baca its story and entrusted the general with it. Baca promised to tell the story of the flags incredible origin and the men it honored wherever he went.

He told the story in Russia, Brian Baca said. One of the last places he visited was the Philippines.

Nielsen said her father told the story to all his children and grandchildren. She said its difficult to give the flag up.

It feels very sad to me, she said. Its like letting part of my father go. Its very emotional.

But her brother believes the flag needs to go to the Smithsonian, so its story can live on.

Memories are what we have now, Brian said.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

SANTA FE  With New Mexico in line for a huge projected revenue windfall, large amounts of money are expected to flow into two state savings funds that lawmakers set up to provide a ready resource during cash-lean years.

But some legislators are questioning the need for roughly $2.7 billion to be parked in the two funds  the Early Childhood Trust Fund and the states rainy day fund  by the end of the current budget year and say they may pursue legislative changes aimed at limiting how much money goes into them.

Rep. Patricia Lundstrom, D-Gallup, the chairwoman of the Legislative Finance Committee, said Tuesday that she has asked legislative staffers to look into possible changes to the Early Childhood Trust Fund in particular, including a possible cap on the funds total balances.

I dont want money sitting in funds when we have so many needs, Lundstrom told the Journal.

She said lawmakers never envisioned such a huge infusion of revenue into the funds in a short period, while also pointing out that New Mexico early childhood programs could get an additional infusion of annual funding from the states largest permanent fund if voters approve a constitutional amendment scheduled to appear on the 2022 general election ballot.

The rainy day fund, technically known as the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund, was established by lawmakers in 2017 and gets money from tax collections on the oil and natural gas industries that exceed a five-year rolling average.

The Early Childhood Trust Fund was set up in 2020 and gets money from the same revenue source when total state cash reserves amount to 25% or more of the states approved spending level. The trust fund, which makes an annual distribution to help fund early childhood programs statewide, can also get money from mineral leasing payments on federal land.

Based on revenue estimates released last month by executive and legislative economists, a total of $1.8 billion is projected to be in the rainy day fund at the end of the current budget year, which started July 1  or more than half the states estimated $3.1 billion in total reserves.

And more than $1.1 billion is projected to be transferred into the Early Childhood Trust Fund over a three-year period ending in June 2023.

Lawmakers made some minor changes to accessing money from the rainy day fund during the 2020 legislative session, and more structural tweaks could be proposed for the 30-day session that starts in January.

That fund is getting pretty big, and I think we need to take a look as a Legislature at how its structured, House Majority Leader Javier Martinez, D-Albuquerque, said during a legislative committee hearing last week.

Rep. Antonio Moe Maestas, D-Albuquerque, was even more blunt, saying the state could withstand two consecutive decadelong economic downturns, given the amount of money in the savings funds.

Money sitting in an account is actually counterproductive to the future of our state, Maestas said.

However, other lawmakers say there should be ample caution when it comes to spending down the projected budget windfall.

Sen. Crystal Diamond, R-Elephant Butte, said legislators should be mindful of the historic volatility of oil and gas revenues  and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

We do not know what the future holds, and as such, we should think twice before spending exorbitantly simply because our coffers appear to be full today, Diamond said.

In all, the recent revenue estimates project New Mexico lawmakers will have nearly $1.4 billion in new money in the coming year  a figure that represents the difference between expected revenue and the states current $7.4 billion budget.

Both Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham and the Legislature are expected to unveil their spending recommendations before the start of next years 30-day legislative session.

Meanwhile, the governor has not announced her administrations final plan for using $1.7 billion in federal relief funds, although some of that money has been earmarked for restoring New Mexicos largely depleted unemployment fund and temporarily boosting wage levels for chile field workers.
It was a perfect day for sailing, a perfect day for anything, a cool breeze, blue skies, calm waters on the Hudson River.

Patty Jafari remembers it all, though it was 20 years ago this Saturday, and even now she almost cant believe it.

Its like that for most of us. We remember where we were, what we were doing, how we felt before and after those moments of terror and confusion on Sept. 11, 2001, when everything changed.

But few of us were as close to the World Trade Center as Jafari that morning. Few of us still keep photos of those moments on our refrigerators, mementos of that surreal September day.

Jafari and husband Mori, both of Albuquerque, had flown to Newark, New Jersey, the day before to visit friends and go sailing. The friends kept a sailboat docked at the Liberty Landing Marina, which sits on the New Jersey side of the mouth of the Hudson, about a mile across from lower Manhattan and the World Trade Center towers.

The night before, the Jafaris and their friends stood on deck and marveled at the sparkling skyline across the water, the towers tall and stately.

The scene of the city at night was just beautiful, she said. We had no idea that view would never again look the same after that night.

The couples slept aboard the boat. Jafari was up first, awakened by a loud boom at 8:45 a.m.

It was like a sonic boom, she said. My husband slept through it. I couldnt see anything from below deck. I made some coffee, went back to bed and read a book.

Eighteen minutes later came a second boom.

She heard sirens, but figured they were just part of the sounds of the big city.

Up on deck, she saw the smoke billowing from the towers. She thought at first it was steam rising, but it was too dark, too much.

She called her friend to have a look.

Oh, my God, the friend gasped.

Their husbands turned on the television. Jafari started snapping photos on her camera. Among the many she took were several of the towers collapsing, one by one, a little more than an hour after the first plane struck.

Authorities ordered Manhattan shut down, closing off roads, tunnels and bridges. Besides walking, the only way out of the choking clouds blanketing Manhattan was by boat.

The Coast Guard issued an alert for all available vessels in the area to help with the evacuation as thousands crowded into The Battery, about six blocks from the collapsed buildings.

The boats came  ferries, tug boats, sightseeing boats, catamarans, yachts, water taxis, speed boats. By days end, an estimated 500,000 people had been evacuated, the largest marine evacuation in U.S. history.

Many of them were brought to the Liberty Landing Marina, where a triage and a temporary morgue were set up.

They didnt need the morgue, Jafari said. They didnt have any bodies to bring back.

Jafari, her husband and her friends volunteered to help care for the Manhattan refugees, offering them water, juice and bagels. Jafari remembers mixing up bottles of baby formula for the many infants.

The people coming over were covered in ash and had this empty look on their faces, like zombies, she said. Some of them were barefoot.

One man heaved himself onto a bench and sobbed. Jafari held his hand, the two of them wordless in grief and in shock.

A couple of days later, the Jafaris traveled to midtown Manhattan, where people still had that empty look. Fences and walls were covered with photos of missing loved ones. At St. Patricks Cathedral, a firefighter still in his helmet and jacket sat across from the Jafaris in a pew and buried his head in his arms.

Thats when it started to feel real, she said.

Jafari said she has never told her story publicly before now, never publicly shared her photos. But, 20 years later, as memories fade, generations grow old and new generations grow up who never saw what she saw, never lived through what we did, it seemed the perfect time to share.

UpFront is a front-page news and opinion column. Reach Joline at 730-2793, jkrueger@abqjournal.com, Facebook or @jolinegkg on Twitter.

Remembering 9/11

The Journal will publish a commemorative special section Saturday on New Mexicans memories and images of that tragic September day.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Anyone accustomed to keeping tabs on the comings and goings of Albuquerque police through their radio dispatches is out of luck  at least for now. And APD says its not sure exactly when it will come back and in what format.

Gilbert Gallegos, an APD spokesman, said that over the next two weeks the department will be testing its new radio system to make sure the devices are able to switch to encrypted channels when necessary. That means APD scanner chatter cannot be heard over widely available broadcasting apps.

Its a move that has transparency advocates fuming.

By encrypting the information, the police have cut out the public and now control the narrative so we dont know whats going on, said Melanie Majors, the executive director of New Mexico Foundation for Open Government. This move against transparency is a big red flag, and I cant think of a more perfect way to breed mistrust.

The city of Albuquerque recently upgraded its radio system so APD officers can communicate with neighboring agencies. Officers were issued the new radios in March, and city leaders have touted the improvements as critical during incidents such as an Aug. 19 shootout that injured four officers.

Gallegos said that shooting was an example of when it would be better for APD to be able to encrypt its system. He said the department began testing the radios over the weekend to see if it could switch to encrypted channels and will continue to do so over the next two weeks.

Initial testing over the weekend revealed unforeseen issues that require adjustments and additional testing to ensure all APD officers can access encrypted channels when required, Gallegos said. The $38 million system is designed to improve communication between law enforcement personnel and agencies, especially during critical incidents.

He said that the departments channels will be accessible only to its personnel during the testing period but that the communications office will continue to send out alerts for all homicide and fatal crash call-outs, as well as other critical incidents.

In response to questions about whether the radio will be public again, Gallegos said it will be, in some format. He said, however, that the publicly accessible radio might operate on a delay or be available to media only.

There are concerns about access in real time  access to the radio transmissions, for example with the critical incident when officers got shot, he said.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The first day of testimony began Wednesday in Las Cruces as the long-running federal racketeering prosecution of members of the Syndicato de Nuevo Mexico prison gang nears an end.

Angel DeLeon, a Mexican national, is charged in the 2001 murder of Frank Castillo, an inmate at the Southern New Mexico Correctional Facility.

DeLeon was indicted in 2015 in the first phase of the FBI-led investigation, which was triggered in part by the discovery of a murder conspiracy to kill top state Corrections Department officials.

DeLeon, who was not involved in that foiled plot, is alleged to have helped strangle Castillo to death while both were incarcerated at the prison, outside Las Cruces. He had been deported to Mexico in 2002, and the case remained unsolved for years. He has pleaded not guilty.

DeLeon, 42, was one of 30 defendants indicted on the federal racketeering charges in recent years, but he wasnt arrested until 2019 after being extradited from Mexico.

The federal prosecution has resulted in more than 150 arrests of SNM members and associates, most of whom have been convicted. Ten SNM members have been convicted at trial on charges of engaging in violent crimes in aid of racketeering to further the gangs criminal enterprise.

The SNM gang, operating since 1980, is ultraviolent and has had up to 500 members inside and outside prison walls, federal prosecutors say.
DENVER  A judge has approved the forced medication of a mentally ill Danish man accused of starting a wildfire that burned 149 homes in Colorado in 2018, lawyers said Wednesday.

The development was revealed during a court hearing for Jesper Joergensen in which one of his lawyers objected to the decision by a judge in a separate proceeding in Pueblo.

An order allowing Joergensen to be forcibly medicated for six months was issued at a hearing on Aug. 31 without any notice to the defense, attorney Jane Fisher-Byrialsen said. She said she planned to appeal it.

Aaron Pratt of the Colorado Attorney Generals Office said notice of the hearing was mailed to Joergensens other lawyer, David Lipka, but Lipka said he did not receive it.

Joergensen has repeatedly been found incompetent to go on trial for allegedly starting the Spring Creek Fire after being diagnosed with delusional disorder. His lawyers have said he has refused to take medication to treat his condition because his delusions make him believe he is well and does not need them.

Joergensen was moved in June to the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo, where a psychiatrist recently recommended that he be forcibly medicated.
KABUL, Afghanistan  Reminiscent of their previous harsh rule in the 1990s, the Taliban have already begun to wipe out some of Afghanistans gains of 20 years. Theyve denied women a seat at the Cabinet, beaten journalists into silence and enforced their severe interpretation of Islam, on occasion violently.

And yet there seems little the international community can do about it.

The world will need to engage with the Taliban to some extent, despite disappointment with the new all-Taliban Cabinet that defied earlier promises it would be inclusive.

The U.S. needs Taliban cooperation to evacuate the remaining Americans and to fight an increasingly brazen Islamic State affiliate, considered the greatest terrorist threat against America emanating from Afghanistan. In recent weeks, the IS flag has been seen flying from several districts of the eastern province of Nangarhar.

Meanwhile, a humanitarian disaster that threatens millions of Afghans has the world scrambling to respond. On most days, Qatar is flying in food and medical supplies. Pakistan has announced it is sending planeloads of aid to Afghanistan.

The United Nations has launched a $606 million emergency appeal to help nearly 11 million people in Afghanistan, or nearly one-third of the population. They are deemed to be in desperate need as a result of drought, displacement, chronic poverty and a sharp increase in hostilities as the Taliban swept to power last month.

Even before the Taliban takeover, nearly half the population needed some humanitarian aid and more than half of all children under the age of 5 were expected to face acute malnutrition, according to the U.N. report that accompanied the emergency appeal.

The economic challenges are steep. Most Afghans live on less than $2 a day, 80% of the countrys budget was covered by international funds over the past 20 years, and no industries of note have emerged to provide employment to a mostly young population. Tens of thousands of Afghans have fled, most of them members of the educated elite.

Yet despite such dependence on international support, the Taliban sent a message with their Cabinet lineup this week that they intend to run Afghanistan on their terms. They named a government filled with veterans of their 1990s rule and the subsequent insurgency against a U.S.-led military coalition. Their Cabinet includes former Guantanamo Bay prisoners and  perhaps one of the most eyebrow-raising appointments  Sirajuddin Haqqani, wanted by the FBI for questioning in several deadly attacks, as interior minister.

They also forbade protests without prior authorization in a new attempt to silence dissent and reportedly banned some womens sports.

The Taliban would seem to want it both ways  to run Afghanistan according to their harsh interpretation of Islam, while maintaining some level of cooperation with the international community.

In portraying their Cabinet as a caretaker administration, the Taliban signaled there is still room for change and that other nations can do business with this government without recognizing it first.

In a three-page policy statement that accompanied the formation of the government, the Taliban also addressed concerns of the region and the larger world. They promised Afghanistan would not be used as a staging arena for attacks on other countries. They said they would not interfere in the affairs of other nations and demanded the same in return. And they pledged to allow Afghans to leave the country, provided they have the proper travel documents.

I imagine the use of the term caretaker is very strategic, said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center. The idea is to create an impression that at some point the government will change and become more inclusive, and therefore more amenable to the West.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, directing his words at the Taliban, warned Wednesday that any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned. He spoke after hosting a virtual meeting of ministers from 22 countries as well as NATO and the European Union.

Its unlikely, however, that the Talibans top leadership will change anytime soon. Its tens of thousands of fighters will have to be brought under a single Afghan National Security Force banner, even integrating some of the previous military personnel into the mix. But that wont happen without the likes of Haqqani, the new interior minister, or the Taliban founders son Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the defense minister.

In time, economic necessity might prompt the Taliban to loosen their grip and allow women and non-Taliban into the administration, but likely in secondary roles. For women, this might mean work in the traditional fields of health and education.

The Taliban need to open the door and trust non-Taliban in governance. They need to bring technocrats ASAP to get the economy going, said Torek Farhadi, an adviser to previous Afghan governments.

The Taliban face a number of challenges to their rule.

Prolonged economic stagnation could lead to protests by the countrys growing poor who might eventually decide they have little to lose by openly challenging the hard-line rulers. Afghans of 2021 are not the compliant population of 1996  a time when the Taliban had little trouble imposing their uncompromising edicts.

There are also debates and differences within the movement and no one among the Taliban has absolute authority, unlike in the past, under the late founder Mullah Mohammad Omar who had the final word.

The West and Afghanistans regional neighbors hope to use money and recognition as leverage to influence the Taliban.

Wednesdays ministerial meeting signaled that the U.S. and Europe will be watching the Taliban closely.

Kugelman, from the Wilson Center, said others, such as Pakistan, China and Russia, might eventually set a lower bar for formal recognition of a new Afghan government. China has already promised to stay engaged and mine Afghanistans vast mineral resources while helping rebuild the war-ravaged nation. Still, Kugelman said, the Taliban badly need access to billions of dollars in foreign reserves that the West has denied them.

The announcement of its very non-inclusive Cabinet will put those funds further out of reach, he said.

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Gannon has covered Afghanistan for The Associated Press since 1988. She is the APs news director for Afghanistan and Pakistan. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kathygannon.
UNITED NATIONS  The United Nations development agency says Afghanistan is teetering on the brink of universal poverty which could become a reality in the middle of next year unless urgent efforts are made to bolster local communities and their economies.

It said the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has put 20 years of steady economic gains at risk.

The U.N. Development Program outlined four scenarios for Afghanistan following the Talibans Aug. 15 assumption of power that predict the countrys GDP will decline between 3.6% and 13.2% in the next fiscal year starting in June 2022, depending on the intensity of the crisis and how much the world engages with the Taliban. That is in sharp contrast to the expected 4% growth in GDP before the fall of the government.

Afghanistan pretty much faces universal poverty by the middle of next year, Kanni Wignaraja, UNDPs Asia-Pacific Director, told a news conference Thursday launching its 28-page assessment. Thats where were heading  its 97-98% (poverty rate) no matter how you work these projections.

Currently, the poverty rate is 72% and Wignaraja pointed to many development gains after the Taliban were ousted from power in 2001: Per capita income more than doubled in the last 20 years, life expectancy at birth was extended by about nine years, the number of years of schooling rose from six to 10, and we got women into university.

But she said Afghanistan now faces a humanitarian and development disaster resulting from political instability, frozen foreign reserves, a collapsed public finance system, a crush on local banking because of this, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

UNITED NATIONS  The United States has a message for the Taliban: If it lives up to all its commitments, brings greater stability to Afghanistan and the region, demonstrates widespread inclusion, and protects the gains of the last 20 years well work with it.

But U.S. deputy ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, who delivered the message at a U.N. Security Council meeting on Thursday, stressed that any legitimacy and support will have to be earned.

He said the standards the international community has set are clear and include facilitating safe passage for Afghans and foreign nationals who want to leave Afghanistan and respecting the countrys obligations under international humanitarian law including those related to the protection of civilians.

Were watching closely to see that those standards are met, he said.

DeLaurentis told the council that following the U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan needs the United Nations and the U.N. political mission in the country more than ever.

He said the United States remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and as the countrys largest humanitarian donor it is helping partners on the ground provide assistance, but the needs are vast.

With the diplomatic footprint in the country reduced, DeLaurentis said, the U.N. has a vitally important role to play not only in coordinating aid but in preventing human rights violations and abuses and pursuing accountability for those that have occurred, and in protecting children and civilians.

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BUCHAREST, Romania  Romanias foreign ministry says it has brought 139 Afghan citizens to its capital of Bucharest after initially evacuating them from Afghanistan to Pakistan.

Foreign affairs minister Bogdan Aurescu said Thursday that the evacuations were extremely complicated missions and that the arrival of the Afghans was a very emotional moment.

Romanian officials have said they have evacuated a total of 156 Afghans. Some had worked with Romanian troops in Afghanistan and the others are students with scholarships in Romania, journalists and human rights activists.

Romania has also repatriated 49 Romanian citizens and helped evacuate seven citizens of some allied states since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.

Officials say eight Romanian citizens remain in Afghanistan and so far have not asked to be repatriated.

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UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Afghanistan is urging the world to unite to prevent the economic collapse of the country, to address fears the Talibans Islamic state may spread to its neighbors and to fight terrorism.

Deborah Lyons warns that the Taliban have visibly welcomed and sheltered al-Qaida members and that Islamic State extremists remain active and could gain strength.

She told the U.N. Security Council on Thursday that it will have to decide what steps to take regarding many of the 33 members of the Taliban government who are on the U.N. sanctions blacklist, including the prime minister, the two deputy prime ministers and foreign minister.

Lyons says the humanitarian crisis is worsening and there is a looming crisis caused by donors freezing billions of dollars in Afghan assets. She says the fund freezes can cause a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger and may spark a refugee exodus and set the country back for generations.

She says ways must be found to provide humanitarian relief on a huge scale and quickly allow money to flow to Afghanistan to prevent a total breakdown of the economy and social order while creating safeguards to ensure the money is not misused by the Taliban authorities.

In Lyons words, The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender and counterterrorism perspective.

Lyons says that despite the Talibans statements of a general amnesty, the U.N. has received credible allegations of reprisal killings, the detention of officials who worked for previous administrations, house-to-house searches by Taliban who have seized property particularly in Kabul, and restrictions on women working and limitations to girls education in some regions.

Lyons says U.N. premises for the most part have been respected but its national staff has faced increasing harassment and intimidation.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistans foreign minister says the world community should not take steps that risk an economic collapse in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Quereshi on Thursday urged the international community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert a worsening humanitarian crisis.

His appeal came two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. At a news conference in Islamabad alongside Qatari counterpart Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qureshi did not name any single country. But Qureshi said no strings should be attached to humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.

The Taliban government currently does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve. These reserves were blocked amid last months political turmoil in Afghanistan.

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WASHINGTON  U.S. veterans groups hope that news that private evacuation flights are starting up again for Western citizens in Kabul means Afghans considered at risk for past work with Americans will soon be able to leave again as well.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers, veterans groups and other American organizations and individuals have been pressing the Biden administration to do more to get out those vulnerable Afghans. They include thousands of Afghans who used to work with the U.S. military, and are eligible for what are known as Special Immigrant Visas.

James Miervaldis, a spokesman with a veterans group, No One Left Behind working on behalf of those Afghans, called the news, Awesome. Well start getting SIVs booked up.

Miervaldis said he had yet to hear a commitment from officials to get Afghan allies on the flights out as well as citizens. But veterans had talked with Secretary of State Antony Blinken last Friday, and let him know that the organizations working to get Afghans out have committed $2 million for commercial air fare out of Afghanistan.



MOSCOW  Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow is interested in peace and stability in Afghanistan and in stopping the exodus of Afghans from the country, which has been triggered by the Talibans swift power grab last month.

Putin spoke at a summit on Thursday via videoconference to officials from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. He told BRICS leaders that Russia, just like its BRICS partners, consistently supports the establishment of the long-awaited peace and stability on the Afghan land.

Putin said Russia is interested in stopping the flow of migration and wants Afghans to live peaceful and dignified lives in their motherland.

Moscow, which fought a 10-year war in Afghanistan that ended with the Soviet troops withdrawal in 1989, has made a diplomatic comeback as a mediator over the past few years, reaching out to the feuding Afghan factions, including the Taliban  even though Russia has labeled them a terrorist organization.

Unlike many other countries, Russia hasnt announced a pledge to take in Afghan refugees in the wake of the Talibans takeover of power. Putin has previous said that Moscow doesnt want militants appearing (in Russia) again under the guise of refugees.

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MORE ON AFGHANISTAN:

 Taliban name caretaker Cabinet that pays homage to old guard

 US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression

 Blinken and Austin to visit Gulf to address postwar stresses

 Taliban say they took Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province

 Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan

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ISLAMABAD  CIA Director William Burns has met with Pakistans powerful army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

In a statement, the military said regional security and developments in Afghanistan were discussed during the meeting Thursday. It didnt elaborate.

Pakistan remains committed to cooperate with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Afghan people, the statement said.

Burns thanked Pakistan for its role in the evacuation operations from Afghanistan and pledged further improvements in diplomatic cooperation with Pakistan.

Burns also met with Pakistans intelligence chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hamid, the statement said.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistan says Qatars foreign minister will arrive in Pakistans capital of Islamabad to discuss the latest situation in Afghanistan.

In a statement, Pakistans Foreign Ministry said Qatari chief diplomat Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani during his day-long visit Thursday will meet with Pakistans foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other top officials.

It said Pakistan and Qatar enjoy close, cordial ties. The two countries closely collaborate on regional and global issues of common interest, the statement said.

The development comes two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. The Taliban maintain a political office in Doha.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  The interior ministry of the new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of demonstrations that have brought heavy-handed assaults on protesters.

The minister has issued an order to end all protests in the country  unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.

Its unlikely the women who have been leading near daily protest demanding their rights from the countrys hardline Islamic rulers will be allowed to protest under the new rules. In the words of the ministrys statement: It is announced to all citizens not to attempt at the present time to hold any demonstrations under any name whatsoever.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has taken to Twitter to say his flight from Kabul on Aug. 15 was done to save Afghanistans capital from bloodshed. He says his security personnel advised the secret departure, which opened the gates of the city to a Taliban takeover.

Ghani also denies widespread allegations of corruption as well as charges that he left the country with millions of dollars. He says there should be an independent investigation.

Ghanis sudden departure has been widely criticized both in Afghanistan and abroad. Washington blamed Ghanis flight and the governments collapse for a Taliban takeover ahead of a negotiated deal.

Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.
PHOENIX  Arizona state Rep. Bret Roberts abruptly announced Wednesday hes resigning from the Legislature, just two weeks after he filed to run for reelection.

The Republican from Maricopa said stepping down is whats best for his family. His resignation is effective Sept. 30.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve with you, the Republican caucus, and the entire House, he wrote in a brief message addressed to his constituents and colleagues and posted on Twitter. I wish you all nothing but the best going forward and am confident that the House, will continue to do the peoples work on behalf of all Arizonans.

Roberts did not initially give a reason for his departure. Later, he tweeted, after much consideration this decision was made merely on the basis that it is best for our family.

Republican Speaker Rusty Bowers called Roberts a strong, consistent champion for the Republican caucus and his constituents in Legislative District 11, which stretches from Maricopa and Casa Grande in Pinal County to the northern reaches of the Tucson metro area.

I appreciate his service to the House and the State of Arizona, Bowers said in a statement. He will be missed.

The Legislature is not scheduled to be in session until January. The Republican precinct committeemen in Legislative District 11 will come up with a list of nominees from which county supervisors will pick a new representative. Roberts replacement must be a Republican.

Roberts is the second Arizona lawmaker to resign Wednesday after Democratic Sen. Kirsten Engel quit to focus on her campaign for Congress.
JERUSALEM  For nearly two decades, Zakaria Zubeidi has been an object of fascination for Israelis and Palestinians alike, who have seen his progression from a child actor to a swaggering militant, to the scarred face of a West Bank theater promoting cultural resistance to Israeli occupation.

Now he has emerged as one of Israels most wanted fugitives after tunneling out of a high-security prison on Monday with five other Palestinian militants.

Zubeidi, now in his mid-40s, comes from a generation of Palestinians who were children during the first intifada, or uprising against Israel, which erupted in 1987. They lived through a brief period of hope at the height of the peace process, only to take up arms in the far more violent intifada that erupted in 2000, and which claimed the lives of Zubeidis mother, brother and several comrades.

But even among that cohort, few Palestinian militants had closer ties to Israelis than Zubeidi, who for many years was an even bigger celebrity in Israel than in the Palestinian territories.

To Israelis, he is a notorious terrorist responsible for suicide bombings and shooting attacks that killed civilians. He also is one of the few who regularly gave media interviews.

In many ways, hes the poster kid for Israelis of the Palestinian terror campaign of the second intifada, said Yossi Kuperwasser, a retired general who served in Israeli military intelligence during the uprising. Hes a Forrest Gump, sort of. He played all the roles.

Among Palestinians, Zubeidi was just one of several prominent militants of that era, his name having long ago faded from the headlines. Now, he and the other escapees are being hailed as national heroes for staging the biggest breakout from an Israeli prison in decades.

Zubeidi rose to prominence during the second intifada as the leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an armed offshoot of the secular Fatah party, in the impoverished Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank.

The camp, which is home to Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation, was the scene of a major battle with the Israeli army in 2002. A mishandled explosive left a peppering of black scars on Zubeidis face, and he spent years eluding Israeli authorities.

A far younger Zubeidi appears in the archival footage of Arnas Children, a 2004 documentary about a childrens theater founded in the Jenin refugee camp in the late 1980s by Arna Mer-Khamis, an Israeli Jewish activist who married a Palestinian and supported the Palestinian cause.

The film, made by her son Juliano, follows boys from the Jenin refugee camp who joined the theater as children, only to be drawn into the vortex of the second intifada as young men. Of the five core members of the group, only Zubeidi survived. Juliano was gunned down in Jenin in 2011 under mysterious circumstances.

In a 2006 interview with the U.K.s Sunday Times, Zubeidi traced his militancy back to the death of his mother, Samira, who was killed by an Israeli sniper in 2002. His brother, Taha, was killed shortly thereafter, as were friends and fellow fighters. The theater Mer-Khamis started, which initially met on the roof of Zubeidis family home, was demolished that year.

Another Israeli woman, Tali Fahima, also had an unlikely cameo in the drama. The pro-Palestinian activist struck up a friendship with Zubeidi during the intifada and met with him in Jenin. Israel arrested her in 2004 and she spent three years in prison for aiding a terrorist organization.

Israeli media speculated the two were lovers  something they both denied. In an interview with Israels Channel 10 in 2008, Fahima accused Zubeidi of collaborating with Israels Shin Bet security service after he secured permission to travel from Jenin to the West Bank city of Ramallah for eye surgery.

The intifada had begun to wind down in 2005 after the election of President Mahmoud Abbas, who is committed to resolving the decades-long conflict through negotiations with Israel. He seeks to establish a Palestinian state in the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem, territories Israel seized in the 1967 war.

In 2007, Zubeidi availed himself of a general amnesty for militants from Abbas Fatah party and joined the Freedom Theater, which Juliano Mer-Khamis had founded the previous year to continue his late mothers legacy.

We want to take the Palestinian cause to the people through theater, Zubeidi told The Associated Press in 2008. But he never surrendered his weapons to the Palestinian Authority, saying even then that he did not trust the amnesty agreement and feared for his life.

In 2011, Israeli media reported that Israel had revoked Zubeidis pardon without giving a reason. The Palestinian Authority arrested him the following year after a shooting outside the home of Jenins governor. Zubeidi was released months later after a widely publicized hunger strike.

He has led a quieter life over the last decade, working on prisoner affairs for the same Palestinian Authority that had jailed him and studying political science at Birzeit University in the West Bank. His relatives say he gave up militant activities long ago.

As long as we are under occupation, no Palestinian will abandon the struggle against the occupation, Zubeidis brother, Yehia, told The Associated Press. But there are a lot of factors, like age, a decision to take a break.

Israel arrested Zubeidi again in 2019. He was later charged with taking part in two shooting attacks against Israeli buses in the occupied West Bank, in which no one was seriously wounded, and was said to have been planning a third. Allegations dating back to the intifada were added to the charge sheet.

His brother said Zubeidi did not acknowledge the charges and was awaiting trial.

He was held at Gilboa prison, a maximum-security facility in northern Israel just a few miles (kilometers) away from Jenin. He shared a cell with five members of the Islamic Jihad militant group from Jenin, four of whom were serving life sentences on terrorism convictions.

Early on Monday, each of them squeezed into a narrow hole in the floor of their cell and escaped through a tunnel running beneath the prison walls. Its unclear what role Zubeidi played in the escape, but he is the most famous of the six  and is once again among Israels most wanted.

Kuperwasser suspects that if he remains at large long enough hell return to his old ways  and not just the militancy.

Its dangerous for him, but I wouldnt be surprised if he would look for an opportunity to speak with somebody to gain some more political clout from his success in escaping prison.

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Associated Press reporters Aref Tuffaha in Jenin, West Bank and Jack Jeffery in Ramallah, West Bank contributed.
KUWAIT CITY  U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday the al-Qaida extremist group that used Afghanistan as a staging base to attack United States 20 years ago may attempt to regenerate there following an American withdrawal that has left the Taliban in power.

Austin spoke to a small group of reporters in Kuwait City at the conclusion of a four-day tour of Persian Gulf states. He said the United States is prepared to prevent an al-Qaida comeback in Afghanistan that would threaten the United States.

The whole community is kind of watching to see what happens and whether or not al-Qaida has the ability to regenerate in Afghanistan, he said. The nature of al-Qaida and (the Islamic State group) is they will always attempt to find space to grow and regenerate, whether its there, whether its in Somalia, or whether its in any other ungoverned space. I think thats the nature of the organization.

The Taliban had provided al-Qaida with sanctuary while it ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. The U.S. invaded and overthrew the Taliban after it refused to turn over al-Qaida leaders following the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the United States. During the course of the 20-year U.S. war, al-Qaida was vastly diminished, but questions have arisen about its future prospects with the Taliban back in Kabul.

We put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that to happen, Austin said, referring to the possibility of al-Qaida using Afghanistan as a staging base in the future.

In a February 2020 agreement with the Trump administration, Taliban leaders pledged not to support al-Qaida or other extremist groups that would threaten the United States. But U.S. officials believe the Taliban maintain ties to al-Qaida, and many nations, including Gulf Arab states, are concerned that the Talibans return to power could open the door to a resurgence of al-Qaida influence.

Austin has asserted that the U.S. military is capable of containing al-Qaida or any other extremist threat to the United States emanating from Afghanistan by using surveillance and strike aircraft based elsewhere, including in the Persian Gulf. He also has acknowledged that it will be more difficult without U.S. troops and intelligence teams based in Afghanistan.

Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared together in Qatar on Tuesday in a show of U.S. gratitude for that Gulf states help with the transit of tens of thousands of Afghans and others evacuated from Kabul. Blinken also visited an evacuee transit site in Germany, and Austin visited Bahrain and Kuwait.

Together, the Austin and Blinken trips were meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Bidens decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navys 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he  like the Trump administration before him  has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia.

Austin, a retired Army general, has a deep network of contacts in the Gulf region based in part on his years commanding U.S. and coalition troops in Iraq and later as head of U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East. This weeks trip, however, was his first to the Gulf since taking office in January.

Austin had been scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on Thursday as the final stop on his Gulf tour. But on Wednesday evening his spokesman, John Kirby, announced that the visit had been dropped due to scheduling issues. Kirby offered no further explanation but said Austin looked forward to rescheduling.

Austin indicated that his visit was postponed at the Saudis request. The Saudis have some scheduling issues; I cant speak to exactly what they were, he said.

The Saudi stop notably was to happen two days before the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States that killed nearly 3,000 people. Fifteen of the men who hijacked commercial airliners and crashed them into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a Pennsylvania field on Sept. 11, 2001 were Saudis, as was Osama bin Laden, whose al-Qaida network plotted the attack from its base in Afghanistan. The attack prompted the U.S. invasion that became a 20-year war in Afghanistan.

U.S. relations with the Saudi government have been strained at times in the intervening years. In 2018, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman oversaw an unprecedented crackdown against activists, rivals and perceived critics. The year culminated in the gruesome killing of Washington Post contributing columnist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in the Saudi Consulate in Turkey.

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden directed the declassification of certain documents related to the 9/11 attacks, a gesture to victims families who have long sought the records in hopes of implicating the Saudi government. Public documents released in the last two decades, including by the 9/11 Commission, have detailed numerous Saudi entanglements but have not proved government complicity.

The Saudi government denies any culpability. On Wednesday the Saudi Embassy in Washington released a statement welcoming the move to declassify and release more documents related to 9/11, saying, no evidence has ever emerged to indicate that the Saudi government or its officials had previous knowledge of the terrorist attack or were in any way involved in its planning or execution.
After a year of virus-inspired virtuality, organizers of the annual Gila River Festival in Silver City were hoping things would be closer to normal.

Due to ongoing health mandates, the Gila Conservation Coalition is going with a hybrid model with some in-person, outdoor events and some online discussions, said Allyson Siwik, coalition executive director.

The theme this year is Reconnecting with the River,  she said. We were hoping everybody was going to be able to come and we would be out of it by now and we could be welcoming people back to the Gila. People are still coming its just not going to be any gathering in a big theater and having lots of presentations.

While gatherings will be limited and socially distanced, the idea to celebrate our connections to the river and nature and one another, remains very much a goal, Siwik said.

Set for Sept. 16-19, the event will feature a free, virtual keynote speech at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, from philosopher and author Kathleen Dean Moore, a longtime professor at Oregon State University who has now turned her attention to climate action and the extinction crisis, she said.

Borrowing from poet Mary Oliver, Moore said, my work, which is mostly standing still and learning to be astonished.

And the Gila River very much falls under that category, she said.

Ill be making the case to celebrate it, she said of the Gila. Praise it, connect with it, come into alliance with it. And I will work also to warn about the damage proposed to it and to act to protect and restore it.

Moore, who now lives in Alaska, has not had a chance to visit the Gila River, yet she feels very in-tune with the magical way in which it transforms what would otherwise be a barren landscape into a living, breathing entity that is a haven for critters large and small, the lifeblood of growing things and the sustenance for countless peoples.

What Im proposing is that the reconnection takes the form of an alliance with the river rather than merely an awareness of it, she said. It has the power to power to heal and to grow. The beauty of its waters. The question is, its easy to love a place that is lovely, alive with birdsong and moving water, but what more can we do? This is a call to celebrate, but its also a call to keep it from harm and protect its life-giving beauty.

Other free, virtual presentations include:

Registration-required workshops include: Observing the Gila River through Nature Journaling, Getting the Big Picture  Hells Half Acre Photography, Wildcrafted Drinks Workshop, You are Not Separate from the River  Meditation, Backyard Composting, Moths of the Gila and The Grant County Art Guild Paints the Big Ditch.

Limited-personnel field trips, some of which also require fees, will explore everything from kayaking the river to local horseback riding opportunities to bird watching to a clean-up project among many other adventures.

One of the special attractions, Siwik said, will be a riverside performance by Borderlands Ballet.

To close out Sunday morning, there will be a gathering at the river, COVID-safe, she said. Well be doing poetry and Native American drumming, have an Apache river blessing and Borderlands Ballet will be performing on the banks of the river some ballet pieces.
The two times Kelson Camp visited New Mexico, they were experiences that he never forgets.

Camp will get to visit the state again as hes in Albuquerque to perform at the New Mexico State Fair with The Band Perry.

As a touring musician, he gets to have flexibility in his schedule.

For his current trip, hes hoping to experience new things.

Ive done Meow Wolf and hung out in Albuquerque for a few days, he says. This time I want to have another great experience.

But first, Camp will prepare for the show with the Grammy-winning group, which perform at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10 ,at Tingley Coliseum.

The Band Perry is composed of siblings Kimberly Perry, Reid Perry and Neil Perry.

In 2010, their single If I Die Young reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country songs and has been certified 6 times platinum. Their second album, Pioneer, produced additional No. 1. singles in Better Dig Two and Done. Camp has been the drummer for the band for awhile now.

When I started drumming with them, it was more electro rock, he says. They are going back towards country and the lives shows are their country hits played in a rock way.

Camp describes himself as a fan of music  in general.

I think its important when you are a touring musician that you have to be a chameleon of sorts, he says. You have to be able to jump in and perform with any band when they need you.

Camp is also getting used to performing in front of audiences again. The Band Perry has been performing weekend shows, and arent expected to do a big tour until 2022.

This means that Camp is also getting himself to be ready for the stage.

Right now, its my fingers that are feeling it, he explains. We havent been playing too often. When I hit a little bit harder, I get blood blisters. Thats the hardest part of my life. Oh, and waking up early.

The Band Perry

WHEN: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 10

WHERE: Tingley Coliseum, 300 San Pedro NE

HOW MUCH: $20-$55, plus fees at statefair.exponm.com
Instagram Celebrity

The 'Rich Kids of Beverly Hills' star is expecting her second child with Jordan McGraw, the son of Dr. Phil, only several months after welcoming her first child.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - TV personalities Morgan Stewart and Jordan McGraw are expecting their second child just seven months after welcoming their first kid.

Morgan revealed the news on E!'s Daily Pop show and posted a photo of the parents-to-be admiring her baby bump on Instagram.

"Maybe this baby will look like me??" she captioned the shot.

Jordan, the son of TV self-help guru Dr. Phil McGraw, also shared the news on his Instagram.

The couple welcomed its first child, daughter Row Renggli, in February (21).

Following the second-baby announcement, they were showered with congratulations from fans and friends including Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas' wife Danielle, model Hunter McGrady, and Jordan's mother Robin McGraw.

The proud grandma exclaimed in response to Morgan's post, "Over the moon!!!! The news is out!!! Yay!!!! You are the queen!!! We love you so much!!" She also left a similar message on her son's account, "Yay!!!! You and Morgan and Row are adorable!! We can't wait to meet baby #2."

Jordan captioned his post with a brief "Round 2," to which baby mama Morgan sweetly responded, "I love you."

While Jordan's famous dad hasn't responded to the second-baby news, he was thrilled last year when joining the gender reveal for son's first child. "We are so proud of you and Morgan! Another grandbaby, yay! #granddaughter," he wrote on Instagram back then.

Morgan Stewart and Jordan McGraw got engaged on Fourth of July weekend last year.
Instagram Celebrity

KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart, and their castmates call on the release of Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa's father after the patriarch landed in jail on treason and conspiracy allegations.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - KJ Apa and his "Riverdale" castmates are rallying around series creator Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa after his father was sentenced to an "indefinite" jail term in Nicaragua.

Aguirre-Sacasa's dad Francisco Aguirre-Sacasa, who was an ambassador to the U.S. for the Central American country from 1997-2000, has reportedly been thrown behind bars for treason and conspiracy.

A vocal critic of current Nicaraguan President, Daniel Ortega, Francisco was arrested at the border between Nicaragua and Costa Rica and his passport was seized in August (21).

Roberto updated Deadline on Wednesday (08Sep21), with the news his political prisoner father has been convicted by authorities on the "completely bogus charges."

"My dad's no longer 'under investigation for 90 days,' as he had been, and can now be imprisoned indefinitely," the comic book writer told the outlet.

Now "Riverdale" castmembers, including Apa, Lili Reinhart, and Madeleine Petsch, have recorded a video message asking fans to rally for Francisco's release.

In the clip, Apa, who portrays main character Archie Andrews on the series, says, "My name is K.J. Apa and we're on the set of Riverdale. Over the years, all of us who have been part of making this show has become a family."

Casey Cott, who plays Kevin Keller, adds, "And right now, someone from our family needs your help."

The actors have asked fans to use the hashtag #FreeFrancisco on social media to show their support.

Roberto took to Twitter on Wednesday to thank the actors for their support.

"I am blown away by the love and support from my RIVERDALE family, the best cast and crew on the planet. This means everything to my entire family. Getting the word out about what's been happening in Nicaragua to my dad and so many others fighting for freedom! #FreeFrancisco."

Nicaraguan government officials have allowed Roberto's mother Maria to visit her husband at the infamous El Chipote prison for 10 minutes after turning her away on several previous occasions.

"My mother was very shaken after their meeting. He'd lost weight and seemed somber and confused," the TV boss revealed. "He's very isolated and has no idea what's happening in the outside world or with his case. No one's telling him anything. He told her to stop trying to send him food, water, and medicine because things aren't getting to him."
WENN/Brian To/Lia Toby Movie

Believing she was cheated out of millions over decision of simultaneous release at cinemas and on streaming platform, the 'Black Widow' actress filed suit against the movie studio chiefs in July.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - Benedict Cumberbatch is saddened by "The Avengers" co-star Scarlett Johansson's contract tiff with Disney/Marvel executives, confessing the whole thing is "a bit of a mess."

Johansson filed suit against Disney chiefs at the end of July, claiming she was cheated out of millions over their decision to release blockbuster "Black Widow" at cinemas and on streaming platform HBO Max simultaneously, and the movie studio bosses responded by calling the lawsuit "sad and distressing in its callous disregard for the horrific and prolonged global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic."

They claimed they had to release the film to big and small screens on the same day due to concerns film fans would not head to cinemas to see it due to COVID-related health and safety fears.

The studio heads insisted on settling the quarrel quietly through confidential arbitration, while the actress' lawyer demanded action, calling the defendants' response to his client's lawsuit "a misogynistic attack."

Now, "Doctor Strange" star Cumberbatch has weighed in on the drama telling The Hollywood Reporter, "It's sad what's going on between the lawyers. Just the verbiage and the accusations... The whole thing's just a bit of a mess."

"We're trying to understand what the revenue streams should be for artists that contribute to the billion-dollar business that is Disney. And it has to be contractualized. It's a new paradigm... A very complex one."

"No one saw this coming... That was the first of these films that was going to get a cinematic release during the pandemic and got stalled and stalled and stalled. It's very new territory."

Cumberbatch stopped short of fully supporting Scarlett in her bid to add to her Disney millions, but another "Avengers" favorite, Elizabeth Olsen, is cheering on the actress.

In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, she said, "I think she's so tough and literally when I read that I was like, 'Good for you Scarlett.' "
WENN Celebrity

Following his return from a South African trip to see his former Olympic swimmer wife, the Prince of Monaco insists that she was forced to extend hers after falling ill.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - Prince Albert of Monaco has shot down reports his marriage to Princess Charlene is in trouble, insisting her extended absence is due to illness.

The royal couple has spent months apart leading to speculation its union is on the rocks, but now Albert reveals his wife was forced to extend a trip to her native South Africa after falling ill on a charity trip.

The Prince has just returned from a trip to see the former Olympic swimmer, who has been in South Africa since May, and insists their marriage is as strong as ever.

"She didn't leave Monaco in a huff!" the Prince told People. "She didn't leave because she was mad at me or at anybody else. She was going down to South Africa to reassess her foundation's work down there and to take a little time off with her brother and some friends. It was only supposed to be a week-long, 10-day maximum stay."

Albert explained she's still there because "she had this infection," as a result of which "all these medical complications arose." He went on to stress, "She didn't go into exile. It was absolutely just a medical problem which had to be treated."

Prior to the Prince's trip to see his sick wife, Charlene hadn't seen the couple's six-year-old twins, Princess Gabriella and Prince Jacques, since June.

On the reason why Albert did not address rumors about their marriage sooner, the Prince stated, "I was concentrating on taking care of the kids." He added, "And I thought it would just probably go [away]. You know if you try to answer everything that comes out then you're constantly [responding], you're wasting your time."
Instagram Celebrity

The Massachusetts native removes his post downplaying his drama with 'Bachelor in Paradise' co-star Natasha Parker and shares a lengthy apology on Instagram Story .

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - Brendan Morais, who recently received backlash over his drama with "Bachelor in Paradise" co-star Natasha Parker, has issued an apology. The Massachusetts native removed his post downplaying his drama and shared a lengthy apology on Instagram Story on Wednesday, September 8.

"After taking time to begin to process the events that unfolded over the past few days, I have realized I was wrong on so many different levels," Brendan began his statement. "First of all I removed my last post from my feed. I posted it before the episode aired and had no idea the magnitude of hurt that I caused."

He went on to explain, "My approach to many things in life is sarcasm. In this instance with regard to my post, I was completely insensitive." Brendan also apologized to Natasha, who felt being played by Brendan as he got back together with ex Pieper James on "BiP". "Most importantly I apologize to you Natasha. I hurt you. I am deeply sorry for doing so. I understand that the damage is already done and all I can do going forward is acknowledge the error of my ways," he noted.

As for the current nature of his relationship with Pieper after the show, Brendan didn't explain much. In addition to admitting that he and Pieper had "misunderstandings going into paradise," Brendan wanted people to stop attacking Pieper for the way he acted on the ABC dating show.

"For those of you that felt my actions triggered certain feelings and emotions I am truly sorry," he penned. "Lastly, despite the fact that Pieper and I had misunderstandings going into paradise (and I can't stress this enough) - if you feel the need to express disdain for the situation, please do so at my expense. I am completely at fault. A full statement and apology will follow."

Brendan Morais shared a lengthy apology following 'BiP' drama.

Brendan found himself in hot water after he admitted in the Monday, September 6 episode of "Bachelor in Paradise" that he dated Pieper before the show. Not stopping there, he also insulted Natasha as he said that she didn't have any "prospects" with any of the guys besides himself.
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The 40-year-old 'Wild N Out' star is already a dad of seven kids, four of them were shared with four different women and born within one year of one another.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - Nick Cannon is a proud father of seven beautiful kids. While some people think that it's a lot, the 40-year-old rapper and TV host is still open when it comes to expanding his family.

In a new interview with TMZ on Wednesday, September 8, the "Nick Cannon Presents: Wild 'N Out" star was asked how he is managing to have so many children. "It's just love. It's the aura. It's the essence," he said while smiling.

When asked if he wants to have more kids if it's in the cards, the former husband of Mariah Carey replied, "If God's willing." He went on to explain, "If God sees it that way, then I'ma keep goin'."

Prior to this, Nick addressed having so many kids with different baby mamas in a Monday, August 9 episode of "The Breakfast Club". He told host Charlamagne Tha God that having children with one person was an outdated concept.

"Why do people question that? That's a Euro-centric concept when you think about the ideas of like, you'r supposed to have this one person for the rest of your life, and really that's just to classify property when you think about it," he reasoned. "Those women, all women, are the ones that open themselves up and say, 'I would like to allow this man in my world. And I will birth this child.' "

He also claimed that he's having kids "on purpose" after welcoming four children with four different women in the span of 6 months. "I don't have no accident," he said on "Nick Cannon Radio" back in July.

In addition to being a father to Moroccan and Monroe, whom he shares with ex-wife Mariah, Nick is a parent to his and Brittany Bell's son Golden and daughter Powerful. The California native also welcomed twins Zion and Zillion with Abbey De La Rosa and son Zen with Alyssa Scott.
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According to his attorney Bradford Cohen, the 'Tunnel Vision' spitter pays the 2-year-old girl's higher education tuition fee after feeling moved by Jessica Sepot's death in a news article.

Sep 9, 2021

AceShowbiz - Kodak Black is extending a helping hand to a daughter of police officer Jessica Sepot, who died of COVID-19 complications. Upon learning the heartbreaking story, the "Tunnel Vision" rapper donated $20,000 to her college fund.

The 24-year-old rapper, who is currently expecting a child with his girlfriend Maranda Johnson, reportedly made a hefty donation to the 27-year-old Fort Lauderdale officer's child after learning about the cop's death in a news article.

Kodak paid the 2-year-old girl's college fund after feeling moved by the tragedy because he also had suffered from the deadly virus. According to his lawyer Bradford Cohen, the "ZEZE" spitter contracted the coronavirus several months ago and suffered from body aches, headaches and difficulty breathing for about 10 days.

" 'Make sure that kid is straight,' " his attorney Bradford recalled Kodak's statement to TMZ on Wednesday, September 8. The lawyer went on to explain that the "Roll in Peace" hitmaker wanted to "pay for her college fund" so that the girl could get higher education.

Following Kodak's thoughtful gesture, the Fort Lauderdale Fraternal Order of Police told the outlet they were "grateful to everyone who has donated to the Sepot family in memory of Jennifer." Their statement continued, "Her loss has had an immeasurable and lasting impact on our officers. The generosity by supporters has offered a degree of hope during a time in which support for law enforcement feels to be a waning movement."

His empathy may have also increased as he will soon be the father to his own daughter. On September 7, Kodak confirmed that he's expecting a baby girl with Maranda via Twitter. "I Got Mo S**t I Can B Petty Bout Or B Involved In  I Got Drops I'm Debating On . But No Matter How Much Da Dumb S**t Tickles Me My Daughter Otw Mo Important," he tweeted. "Been Practicing Since Yesterday How I'm Finna B Callin Dem Lil N****s Phones & S**t  Runnin They A** Off."
Instagram Celebrity

The 'Bloody Valentine' hitmaker has been slapped with a lawsuit by a parking lot attendant who accused the star of battery following an alleged altercation in Los Angeles.

Sep 10, 2021

AceShowbiz - Machine Gun Kelly has been sued by a parking lot attendant who accused the rocker-rapper of battery.

John Martin Tilli has filed legal documents in Los Angeles, days after filing a police report against the "Bad Things" hitmaker, claiming he became aggressive towards him and pushed him after he asked the star if he had a permit to shoot new movie "Good Mourning With a U" in a Studio City, California parking lot on 23 August (21).

Tilli says he was in charge of opening a gate to let bank branch employees into the lot and when he spotted Kelly filming, he asked if he had permission. Upon discovering the crew did not have the correct permits, he asked them to leave, and was surrounded by the star and his entourage.

Tilli, who describes himself as "a very sensitive, soft-spoken, gentle, quiet person" in legal documents, claims Machine Gun Kelly pushed him as members of his crew yelled in a threatening manner.

The plaintiff is suing for assault, battery, negligence and elder abuse, reports TMZ.

Kelly has yet to comment.

Meanwhile, sources told TMZ the incident didn't happen. They claimed the attendant had wandered into the middle of the location shoot for the film - which the musicians are co-directing, as well as starring in alongside Kelly's girlfriend Megan Fox - and began shouting at a crew member to leave the parking lot as he was unaware of the production taking place.

During the argument, MGK yelled at the man and told him to leave the set, but the insiders insisted at no point did he make any physical contact.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021  Innovations at Union Carbide that laid the foundation for the modern petrochemical industry are being honored with the American Chemical Societys (ACS) National Historic Chemical Landmark designation. The dedication ceremony will be held on Sept. 10 in Clendenin, West Virginia, where this now-global industry had its modest start a century ago.

In 1920, thanks to the vision of George Curme Jr., Ph.D., Union Carbide formed a company to develop a process to manufacture ethylene. The move to ethylene was a revolutionary step because acetylene was the workhorse chemical of the day. Union Carbide, which is now a subsidiary of Dow Chemical, began operating its first ethylene facility in 1921 in Clendenin. Curme and his Union Carbide colleagues also commercialized processes to convert ethylene into several other useful compounds, thereby launching a business sector that has evolved into todays multi-billion-dollar petrochemical industry.

These ethylene-based compounds are now used in numerous products  including clothing, packaging, detergents, paints, durable goods and construction materials, says ACS President H. N. Cheng, Ph.D. So the achievements we are now celebrating show that chemistry truly is part of our everyday lives.

This is the first National Historic Chemical Landmark in West Virginia. The state has a long history of excellence in chemical production and research, says Micheal Fultz, Ph.D., who prepared the Landmark nomination on behalf of the ACS Kanawha Valley Section, which includes Clendenin. The Kanawha Valley is known as Chemical Valley due to the resources, knowledge and transportation systems that help bring products to the market, adds Fultz, a professor of chemistry at West Virginia State University. The Landmark dedication recognizes a major accomplishment of talented people who helped provide society with a new building block  ethylene.

Dow and Union Carbide are proud to be part of the long history of innovation in West Virginia and the resulting impact on the entire chemical industry, says Shannon Huber, senior site manufacturing director at Dow West Virginia Operations. Dows efforts remain rooted in our ambition to be the most innovative, customer-centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company in the world.

Participants in the Landmark dedication ceremony are expected to include Roger Hanshaw, speaker of the West Virginia House of Delegates, who holds a Ph.D. in chemistry; Clendenin Mayor Kay Summers; Cheng and Fultz.

As part of the Landmark celebration, West Virginia State University has established the Dr. George Curme Jr. Scholarship for college students who want to change their lives through the power of a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. The funds are intended for West Virginia residents who volunteer for community outreach and service. The first recipients will be named this fall.

ACS established the National Historic Chemical Landmarks program in 1992 to recognize seminal events in the history of chemistry and to increase awareness of the contributions of chemistry to society. Past Landmarks include the discovery and production of penicillin, the invention of synthetic plastics and the works of such notable scientific figures as educator George Washington Carver and environmentalist Rachel Carson. For more information, visit www.acs.org/landmarks.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California lawmakers have sent Gov. Gavin Newsom legislation to end the careers of bad law enforcement officers.

The final approval on Wednesday comes a year after an earlier effort died without a final vote.

The bill aims to keep troubled officers from jumping from one job to another.

It creates a mandatory new state license, or certification, that could be permanently revoked.

The final softened version of the legislation also allows for suspending the license as a lesser punishment and includes other safeguards like requiring a two-thirds vote for decertification.

California is one of just four states without a way of decertifying officers.
HAYFORK, Calif. - The Trinity County Sheriffs Office has issued evacuation orders in the area of Hayfork for the Monument Fire.

The orders include Tule Creek Rd. and Forest Rd. 10 south of Jesse Rd.

Included in the orders is Tule Creek Rd. at Jesse Rd., South along Tule Creek Rd. to Intersection FS Road 31N31, West on Tule Creek Rd/FS10 to FS Rd. 7, West of FS Rd. 7 along Tule Creek Rd/FS Rd. 10 to Oak Ridge of Oakridge to FS Rd. 3N08

Tule Creek Rd. through Indian valley, Land Acre Rd., Mule Lovers Lane, Buck Gulch, Cow Gulch and Tule Divide are also in evacuation orders.

People should leave the area now as there is an evacuation center at First Baptist Church at 1261 Main St. in Weaverville and at Firemans Pavillion at 9 Park Ave. in Fortuna, Calif.
CHICO, Calif. - Chico Police Department has identified the person who died at Teichert Pond in South Chico.

Police said 53-year-old Guy Steven Vanzant of Chico was pronounced dead at the scene on Saturday.

Police said they received a report about a shooting that happened at a homeless encampment at Teichert Pond around 2:38 a.m.

RELATED: Community reacts to deadly shooting at Teichert Ponds

Police found two gunshot victims on the north side of the pond and one sustained a gunshot wound to the lower extremity and was taken to Enloe Medical Center. That person is stable.

A second person, later identified as Vanzant, was found with a gunshot wound to the stomach.

Medics arrived and began giving life-saving measures but Vanzant was pronounced dead at the scene.

The investigation is ongoing.
WEAVERVILLE, Calif.- Trinity County and the California Office of Emergency Services (OES) will open a Local Assistance Center (LAC) for victims of the Monument Fire at the Veterans Memorial Hall in Weaverville.

The LAC will be open from Thursday to Friday. They will be open from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday through Friday and from 9 a.m to 4 p.m on Saturday

The LAC will help people who have had been impacted by the Monument Fire with a number of resources.

Services available include document replacement like driver's licenses, identification cards, and vital records, along with legal services, financial assistance, and mental health support.

While the LAC will help people, some like Junction City local Michael Wiles are skeptical that some in Trinity County won't seek the assistance out.

"It should help people, the problem is that the folks in the mountains are not privy to going into those and signing up," said Wiles. "90% of them wont know what to do. Myself, I dont know what to do you know."

Wiles has gone through relief programs before during the Carr Fire and has worried about the intentions of people setting up the relief.

He has been recommended to go to the assistance center after having to evacuate his home in Junction City.

Wiles just hopes that the organizations at the LAC keep an open mind towards the people they're helping.

"I hope that the people that present these services are nonjudgmental because thats the main key here with folks from Trinity County," said Wiles. "Im the same way I hate to be judged. You dont know who I am. You dont know whether Im Rockefeller or Im homeless you know."

Wiles told Action News Now that another concern is that a lot of people hadn't heard about the LAC opening at all. Wiles only knew about it after calling OES to check if he could return to Junction City.

The list of confirmed organizations and their services at the LAC is below:
LOS MOLINOS, Calif. - Erica German, a woman who lives in Los Molinos, saw the virus first hand on the front lines when the pandemic started.

"There was a lot of information coming at us and a lot of it was confusing, said German. There was definitely some fear."

In the beginning, she was working in the COVID-19 unit at the hospital.

"I saw that it was something that definitely was to be respected, said German. That it was not just made up."

She got injured while working on the unit but has since returned to work at the cancer unit in the hospital.

Now, she and her husband are fully vaccinated, but both have the virus and are quarantining. Her unvaccinated mother in her 70s is also battling COVID-19.

"I did not get it at work, said German. It was very likely it was community-acquired."

RELATED: As cases go up, Shasta health leaders urge community to follow guidelines

The virus is taking a toll on German's mother. She has underlying conditions and just yesterday got the monoclonal antibody treatment.

"I think she's going to pull through it, but she was on day 10 yesterday, said German. One thing is the longer it wears on your system the more likely it is that your body is going to give in and not be able to fight the infection."

German hopes they will all recover quickly so they can make her son's wedding in Hawaii that is less than 10 days away.

I dont want that to overshadow the virus, but it has definitely put a kink in some very important life events in our family, said German. "We have asked our son to just go on without us. Not very many parent wants to miss being at their child's wedding, but we understand that's just the way it is."

It has not been easy for the family, but German hopes to move past this time soon.

"People need to remember that even in the state of fatigue we are in, we need to remain diligent, German said.

German told Action News Now that one of the most frustrating symptoms she is dealing with is the loss of taste and smell. She is grateful that she and her loved ones are on their way to recovery.
Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research

Bern, 09.09.2021 - On Thursday, 9 September, the Romanian president Klaus Iohannis met with President Guy Parmelin during an official visit to Switzerland. The discussions at Lohn Manor were also attended by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), and Romanian Foreign Minister Bogdan Aurescu. The talks focused on economic and scientific cooperation, the European policies of both countries and international security issues.

Both sides emphasised the excellent quality of the bilateral relations that had been cultivated during reciprocal high-level visits prior to the pandemic. Economic exchanges have increased strongly and steadily in recent years and there is also a wealth of cooperation in education, research and innovation between the two countries. On Thursday, the delegations discussed how to strengthen these relations.

Mr Parmelin emphasised that Switzerlands participation in Horizon Europe, the framework programme for research and innovation, is a priority for the country. This would offer the most conducive means of successfully continuing bilateral research cooperation with Romania. Cyber security is of particular interest to Switzerland, and Romania is set to play a pivotal role following the EUs decision to establish its cyber security competence centre in Bucharest.

Current developments in European policy were also addressed during the meeting. Switzerland remains a reliable and dedicated partner of the European Union (EU), even without an institutional agreement. The Federal Council is committed to a rapid release of the second Swiss contribution to selected EU Member States by Parliament, and aims for a swift finalisation of the Memorandum of Understanding with the EU.

Both sides also exchanged views on how European states can best respond to international challenges. The Swiss delegation called for closely coordinated assistance by states and international organisations with regard to the situation in Afghanistan. The need for a fair and crisis-resistant asylum system was also raised.

The delegation also discussed the situation in Eastern Europe including developments in Moldova and in the Ukraine, as well as relations with Russia. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) plays a key role as an instrument of conflict prevention and a platform for dialogue.

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Alton, IL (62002)

Today

Showers early, then clearing with ample sunshine by the afternoon. High 83F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

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Clear skies. Low 57F. Winds light and variable.
Talk about gallows humor. Kimmel is the latest horse's ass to openly promote discrimination against those unvaccinated for Covid, "joking" about a wheezy death after having been properly turned away from care. Kimmels infant son needed heart surgery a couple of years ago. Kimmel wept openly on his show. We sympathized. Jimmy Kimmel Now Do You Understand Our Pain? We know what it's like to worry to the deepest corner of your soul about your child. And to fear every moment of every day that something might happen to US - the caretakers . That's why many of us have not chosen the experimental Covid vaccine for ourselves, our kids 12 and older, or the full slate of pediatric vaccines for that matter. Many of us have, again for personal reasons. And I know some folks who have had bad bouts of Covid requiring hospitalization - some feel differently about the vaccine after their experience, others do not. PERSONAL DECISIONS all around. Something Kimmel doesn't seem to grasp in his narrow world. I don't know anyone who makes this healthcare decision lightly, as least not in our community. We aren't making a political statement. We don't have that luxury. Also, since it's Trumps Warp Speed vaccine program and Biden is the administrator, how would we choose one over the other? Kimmel is a horses ass. He pontificates as if he knows our lives - and to make matters worse - he's part of some Autism Charity that raises a zillion dollars for nonsense. It's disheartening and infuriating. His best buddy Howard Stern is even worse. His show is non-stop Covid fear and vaccination hype. Another blow to me - I'd been a fan for more than 30 years. No more. Here's the Washington Post summary: Jimmy Kimmel suggests hospitals shouldnt treat unvaccinated patients who prefer ivermectin

In his return to late-night television after what he described as a weird summer, Jimmy Kimmel stopped laughing when he reflected on Labor Day weekend in which coronavirus cases were up by about 300 percent compared with the same time last year, when there wasnt a vaccine.

After noting how Anthony S. Fauci, the chief medical adviser to President Biden, warned that some hospitals might be forced to make tough choices on who gets a bed in the intensive care unit, Kimmel quipped Tuesday that the situation was not difficult. The ABC late-night host then turned his attention to unvaccinated people whove clamored for ivermectin  a medicine long used to kill parasites in animals and humans that has soared in popularity despite being an unproven covid-19 treatment that health officials have warned against using to prevent or treat the virus.

That choice doesnt seem so tough to me, Kimmel said. Vaccinated person having a heart attack? Yes, come right in, well take care of you. Unvaccinated guy who gobbled horse goo? Rest in peace, wheezy.

Note, Kimmel has has a history of making fun of vaccination choice. This was from HuffPo in March of 2015:

Jimmy Kimmel is giving anti-vaccination advocates a taste of their own medicine.
If youre considering a purchase of a used farm tractor or other machine  even if you arent using it to do traditional farm work  safety mu
So, what is going on in the Ahwatukee real estate market? Is the bubble going to burst?
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Courtesy of JNS; Photo Credit: Onar Vikingstad via Wikimedia Commons.

The campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago. According to the Canary Mission, the UIC branch of Students for Justice in Palestine stepped up its efforts in 2020-21, even attacking the wider Chicago Jewish community.
Courtesy of JTA; Photo credit: Alan Smason/Crescent City Jewish News.

A view of the destroyed Karnofsky family building where Louis Armstrong was a regular guest in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The inability of U.S. students to perform on par with the majority of other developed nations should cause alarm, given its implications for Americas global leadership. Instead, while other countries take their K-12 education seriously, American leaders are satisfied with pumping more money into an outdated system that continues to fail students and produced mediocre results.

Heres the sad truth. Twenty-five countries outperform U.S. K-12 students. Those leading the way are China, Hong Kong, Finland, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, and Canada. Chinas students not only place first overall, but they dominate each individual subject as well. U.S. students straggle in at 33rd in math, 23rd in science, and 17th in reading.

Of course, you wouldnt learn this listening to the rhetoric coming out our political and educational leaders. Instead, they tout data that ranks U.S. students against other American students, states boast about their performance relative to other states, and school districts flaunt 2 percent gains in graduation rates.

The reality is even worse than the weak performance on average. The majority of U.S. public school students do not achieve grade-level proficiency. The Nations Report Card reveals that only 28.7 percent of 4th-graders, 26.4 percent of 8th-graders, and a mere 22.8 percent of 12th-graders reach basic proficiency levels averaged across seven subjects (civics, geography, mathematics, reading, science, U.S. history, and writing) on the National Assessment of Educational Progress tests. In other words, over 71 percent of our students lack basic academic proficiencies at the end of their 13-year K-12 schooling.

At a time in history when more learning and skill development are needed, the opposite has occurred. As witnessed throughout the 2020-2021 school year, teacher unions led the charge in our government-funded and run K-12 public education system to make things worse. Putting partisan politics and self-promotion ahead of student learning, they refused to allow teachers to return to their classrooms until outlandish demands are met -- including moratoriums on charter schools, defunding the police, and Medicare for all.

Furthermore, the school week was reduced from five days to four days a week, with instruction only provided a few hours a day remotely. When in-person school finally resumed after an entire calendar year, the low norm accepted by multiple governors was a mere 30 percent of pre-pandemic instruction hours -- e.g., two-and-a-half-hour school days, four days a week.

As if to pour salt into the wound, when in-person public schooling was reinstated in many urban areas and beyond, instead of focusing on academic instruction, school boards, administrators, and teachers advanced curriculum agendas centering on a host of other topics. These include gender redefinition and self-selection, a twisted anti-American historical narrative, Critical Race Theory, and other woke academics under the increasingly familiar guise of innocent-sounding terms -- diversity, inclusion, equity, and social justice.

Redefining equity as equal outcome rather than equal opportunity, challenging students academically with high standards is now viewed as discrimination. Consequently, advanced courses are being removed because students of some races and ethnicities arent represented proportionately.

Lowering of standards and expectations also comes in the form of changing admissions processes. For example, New York City is manipulating the qualification standards for academic programs ranging from gifted and talented programs for kindergarten students to specialized high schools. Thomas Jefferson High School in Fairfax County, Virginia, the number one ranked high school in America, known for its rigorous STEM curriculum, is similarly manipulating admissions standards to racially balance the student body at the expense of admitting academically qualified students. The racial rebalancing comes despite the student body comprising of 79 percent non-white students. Seventy-three percent of students are categorized as Asian yet represent more than 30 countries. This high degree of diversity is disregarded because school leaders want to control the racial representation -- of course, in the noble name of diversity.

Disregarded in the drive for uniform results is the fact that each student has a unique background, interest, giftings, motivation, and academic work ethic (at school and home). Defying common sense, children with widely different degrees of learning readiness are placed in the same classroom, with the same instruction, for the same amount of time, and the same learning results are expected. Any variations in educational outcomes are chalked up to the education system being systemically racist -- an easy scapegoat to avoid doing the hard work at home and in school to address educational deficiencies.

Some schools take it a step further and dumb the system down by doing away with standards altogether. The state of Oregon, for example, has thrown out the requirement for students to pass a basic math, reading, and writing test to graduate high school (ostensibly for the next two school years. It remains to be seen if the change isnt made permanent). The standard for graduation was deemed inequitable because the graduation rates of African American and Native American students were lower than that of their white peers. While Oregon lags behind the national average high school graduation rate, a spokesperson for Governor Kate Brown stated that Oregons Black, Latino, Latinx, Indigenous, Asian, Pacific Islander, Tribal, and students of color would benefit from the removal of the graduation requirement. Alas, graduating teens who cant read, write, or do basic math is anything but beneficial -- to themselves or society as a whole.

Brown and others who champion the lowering of expectations in the name of equity are promoting what President George W. Bush rightfully coined the soft bigotry of low expectations. If we continue to dumb down the education of our future generations, the U.S. will not only continue to lose ground on the world stage but will reap the economic and societal consequences at home.

Dr. Keri D. Ingraham is a Fellow at Discovery Institute and Director of the Institutes American Center for Transforming Education.

Image: National Archives

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Never before in human history has a global pandemic resulted in the dismemberment of first-world economies, highly divisive universal vaccine and mask mandates, education-stunting school shutdowns, and the isolation of entire societies to the point of extreme mental health damage.

Throughout all this, the media have remained incurious as to how this historic misery happened.

Anyone with half a brain cell already knew that a new virus that started within a stone's throw of a biosafety level 4 laboratory in an authoritarian nation likely either leaked or was released from that laboratory. But acknowledging this obvious fact immediately led to expulsion from "polite" society, or at least from social media.

But the fact that Saint Fauci is the director of an organization, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, that provided U.S. funding on "gain of function" research to the tune of nearly $600,000 on several types of coronaviruses at the very lab where the leak happened may well be the biggest story of the last fifty years.

Gain of function is shorthand for research that adds a new function to an existing virus, which in this case is the rather inconvenient function of infecting humans. We were literally funding research by our biggest geopolitical rival on how to turn a harmless virus to humans into one that could wreak chaos in human populations. Mission accomplished.

That's an earth-shattering story that fully vindicates Senator Rand Paul, who has been at the forefront of this, even as he was lyingly insulted by the guilty Fauci himself.

If I submitted a novel manuscript with a supervillain who conspires with his nation's chief rival to do research that causes a global pandemic, and then is tasked with leading the response to this disaster, I would expect publishers to tell me the story is too far-fetched. And yet that is exactly where this story leads.

In between yawns, the media's primary response to the story is to bury it and disparage anyone who notes it.

The media continue to have a tremendous negative impact on America in their war on truth. And one of the most pernicious influences is in the stories they choose to bury, which is a lot of them, while setting the daily news agenda. They say it's time to move on, and America largely moves on.

I asked a few colleagues about this story, and not one of them had the foggiest idea what I was talking about thanks to a near-total media blackout.

After reading the story, one colleague asked, "Why on Earth would we want to take a natural virus and turn it into something far more deadly to humans? Aren't viruses bad enough without us making them worse?" Good question.

Even if there is perhaps some benefit that could be found in such research, the risk seems ridiculously high (as is now rather apparent)  so high that it would far outweigh any potential benefit short of the wicked one of creating a biological weapon to paralyze a rival society.

These media blackouts occur almost daily. For example, just using today as an example, how many people who don't read conservative outlets like this know that four out of the five Taliban members traded for an American traitor, the worst of Guantanamo's worst, are now leaders of Afghanistan?

Or how about the fact that history's newest Picasso, who sells paintings for more money than most Americans will ever see in a lifetime, is none other than Hunter Biden, who admitted that he and his father are likely compromised by a laptop stolen by Russians?

This selection of what to cover to drive the narrative is the greatest damage that the media do to America. For all their protestations, I don't think "enemy of the people" is that inaccurate of a description for an institution that has declared war on the truth and done incalculable damage to American society.

The media also do damage through repetition, another contrast currently on display. The media absolutely destroyed President George W. Bush through nonstop and blatantly unfair attacks on him during Hurricane Katrina. Yet when a mentally challenged Democrat goes on vacation following a similar hurricane, while much of the same state is still without power, the media marvel at his tremendous competence and compassion.

For those who were lauding the media for negatively covering the administration's Afghanistan disaster, they really had no choice. The historic incompetence was at such a level that they were forced to do what they hate the most, even if they did it in the kindest way possible. But they raced to turn the page and start the rehabilitation effort vice driving him from office, as would have likely happened to a Republican president under the same horrific self-inflicted circumstances.

Returning to the story of the century, do any of the "mainstream" media outlets not find it rather coincidental that we were conspiring with China to turn a harmless bat virus into one that is lethal to mankind? Does it not seem a little odd that the very man the media have lionized, since he is part of their cultural tribe, as the leader of the U.S. response provided funding to this effort? I'm not a big believer in coincidences, and if this was a coincidence, it is the biggest one of all time.

For those who might question that this "nonpolitical" wunderkind is part of their tribe, anybody who says about Hillary Clinton that "we all love her and are very proud to know her" is a leftist to the core.

If Fauci was aligned with the right instead of the left, the biggest question we'd likely be contemplating is which prison he would be heading to.

Frankly, I don't know if the COVID release was an experiment gone bad or something far more sinister and intentional. But it is always worth considering cui bono, or who stands to benefit, when looking at an issue like this. The greatest beneficiaries of the destruction wrought by COVID (and the overheated response to it that is still paralyzing Western democracies) were China and leftists and globalists worldwide.

The release of the virus accomplished a number of objectives. It reversed the damage that the Trump administration was doing to China while resulting in a significant increase in China's comparative power. It resulted in a strong move toward authoritarianism across the globe. And it resulted in the weakest and most compromised American president of my lifetime. Cui bono, indeed.

At worst, this is a global conspiracy that rivals any in history. At best, this is the worst cover-up of recent history. The story is the blockbuster of all blockbusters. But Democracy dies in darkness, as the paper that marveled at President Biden's competence and compassion intones, and darkness is what we have at the moment.

I've gained a lot of respect for Senator Rand Paul for his commitment to the truth. Here's to hoping a few other politicians buck the cultural power of the left and demand accountability and answers to the biggest questions of recent history. The leftstream media certainly aren't going to do it, but we shouldn't let them bury a story of this magnitude.

Image: Tyler Menezes via Flickr.

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On Thursday, August 26, Joe Biden made a contribution to the terror war against us. On that infamous day, a suicide bomber attacked the Kabul airport, killing 13 U.S. soldiers and at least 170 Afghanis. How many of the dead Afghanis were American citizens is unreported. The deaths didnt have to happen. Joe Biden made them happen.

Subsequent to the terror attack, in a televised address, Biden brazenly declared what an extraordinary success his cut-and-run was from Afghanistan. Only in the morally upside-down world of progressives and jaded D.C. players can ignominy, disaster, and deaths of innocents be the stuff of a victory lap.

The Kabul airport was where our blundering, daft president chose as Americas final retreat and exit point from a 20-year engagement in Afghanistan. To call Bidens Afghanistan endgame a total failure, strategically and tactically, is an understatement.

Reports are that Biden insisted on a hasty exit from Afghanistan prior to 9/11. Biden, always the popinjay -- the chronic hack politician hunting headlines -- lusted to crow about an end to Americas endless war on 9/11.

Other reports claim that Biden was warned by U.S. intelligence services and the military about the calamity that would ensue if he bolted for the doors. That advice -- if advice was actually dispensed and not just spun post-debacle to cover rear-ends -- went unheeded by the president and his principal White House handlers, D.C. fixer Ron Klain and Obama lackey Susan Rice.

Bidens milquetoast secretary of state Anthony Blinken, woke secretary of defense Lloyd Austin, and sycophantic Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Mark Milley -- along with other acquiescent top brass -- fell in line publicly with their commander-in-chief.

We suppose that these men raised private objections against such foolish executive decision-making. Or maybe they were all-in. Maybe theyre just waiting for the right moment to cover their tails.

Honorable men -- leading the departments of state and defense, intelligence services, and every branch of the military -- knowing that an Afghanistan disaster was in the offing knowing how harmful Bidens Big Afghanistan Bust would be to U.S. national security, would have resigned their positions in protest. Harm, it was, beyond inevitable new terrorist threats to the homeland. Threats will surely arise in the months and years ahead from emboldened enemies, namely Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Irans mullahs, and Kim Jong-un.

Instead, post-disaster, from the most conspicuous players in Biden world -- Blinken, Austin, Milley, and Klain -- weve heard nothing but shameless spin. As of August 26 -- the most recent deadly terrorist attacks on U.S. soldiers, Afghani allies and innocents, and likely U.S. citizens -- America has been rendered far less safe. Mark that date. Then, Bidens surrender and pell-mell withdrawal from Afghanistan crossed a red line. Theres no turning back.

As a result of the presidents unforced surrender, the 2020s promise to be fraught with growing menaces to our country, here and abroad. And have we mentioned Bidens dissolving the U.S.-Mexican border as a compounding threat to Americans safety?

From the Washington Times, August 19:

In March, Axios reported that the Customs and Border Protection agency told members of Congress that since the start of the fiscal year on October 1, 2020, four individuals apprehended at the southern border matched names on the FBIs Terrorist Screening Database. Three were from Yemen and one was from Serbia.

Two million illegals are expected to cross the nations southern border this year. Thats roughly equivalent to metro Milwaukees population. The probability that terrorists are among the itinerants: high.

Today, two great oceans are insufficient to safeguard the homeland. The Wuhan virus -- a glimpse of the evolving biowar threat -- makes it so, as do hybrid and cyber warfare. Advances in technology, applied to weaponry, equipment, transportation, and communications, make it so. Bidens nonexistent southern border makes it so.

In modern times, our best defense has always been the might of our military, maintaining a steadfast commitment to allies, keeping our pledges, and our willingness to deal swift, punishing blows to enemies. Bidens drone strike on the purported planner of the attack on the U.S. Marines killed innocent Afghanis. If the target was killed, he remains unnamed; theres only the Pentagons say-so. But mission accomplished. Narrative trumps facts. Biden demonstrated resolve. Dont dare gainsay the narrative.

Concede this accomplishment to the president: Americas word and will are now rightly suspect around the globe.

Biden has brought into question American resolve with allies and enemies alike. The Taliban is no match for U.S. military prowess, yet Biden ceded Kabul to them. He inexplicably abandoned Bagram Airfield to them. He left a bonanza of weaponry, military equipment, and supplies to the Taliban -- estimated at a staggering $28 billion. He granted Pashtun tribesmen the right to set terms, letting them establish perimeters and checkpoints around the Kabul airport, controlling ingress and egress. A drop-dead August 31 withdrawal deadline stranded a still unknown number of U.S. citizens.

Intrinsic to the American code of honor -- to the decency and loyalty we pledge as Americans to Americans -- we dont abandon our fellows to dreadful fates at the hands of enemies. U.S. soldiers dont leave comrades behind. Biden has cut loose U.S. citizens in Afghanistan. May God help them. More than an unconscionable act, Biden has committed an act of betrayal.

For recklessness in duty, for misfeasance -- for pure dishonor -- Biden should be forced to resign. He wont be. Democrats prioritize politics ahead of country. They control Congress. Biden, for the time being, is still useful to them.

Nonetheless, our voices need to be heard this 9/11. Our fellow citizens -- among them valiant first responders -- who were killed that fateful day in New York City, at the Pentagon, and at Shanksville didnt die in vain. Our fighting men and women who were wounded or sacrificed their lives combatting our terrorist enemies did so to make us safer. They, too, didnt sacrifice in vain.

On 9/11, call your U.S. representatives and senators and make your voice heard. Tell them that Joe Bidens failures, in Afghanistan and on the southern border, have made America vulnerable to future attacks that could be as horrific or worse than the nation experienced on 9/11. Ask them if theyll go on record publicly calling for Bidens resignation, and if not, why not? Tell them that youll make friends and neighbors aware of where they stand on this critical matter. If youre on social media, inform them that youll post their responses. Tell them that youll defend our nation with your voice and vote.

Tell them that with the midterm elections coming next year, youll remember if they stood for or against keeping in office the president whos done so much in so short a time to greatly compromise our national security, putting all Americans at far greater risk in the years ahead.

J. Robert Smith can be found regularly at Gab @JRobertSmith and occasionally on Parler, again @JRobertSmith. He also blogs at Flyover.

Image: Gage Skidmore

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I grew up in Chicago in the 1940s and 1950s in a liberal Jewish home. My parents and their friends were all quite Jewish and Zionist in their leanings. Yet they also were very attached to Russian culture as well -- my mother was born in the Ukraine. She felt very attached to Russian literature, Chekov, Turgenev, Dostoevsky, and Tolstoy to name four authors. My father, American-born and a writer and translator, was less so.

I remember going to bonfires in the evening on the beach of Lake Michigan in Rogers Park in the far north of Chicago. Some people sang Russian songs, and others those of the halutzim. Yet when I was asked where my family was from, my answer was from Russia. Yet was this really true? My grandfather Zev Reuven Velvel Saposnik was murdered in the Ukraine in 1919, and soon after the rest of my mothers family arrived in Chicago. Several brothers had come earlier, and a sister had moved to Buenos Aires. This was a typical immigration pattern of Jews, both Russian and other, to America in that period.

So, I grew up with a Russian-Jewish identification which never was all that clear in my mind --what part Jewish and what part Russian? And speaking to friends whose family came from other eastern European countries, I realized their experiences were the same. We were all very happy to just be Americans. And my mother subsequently wrote a moving book about her life titled Russian Nightmares, American Dreams which Elie Wiesel endorsed.

But in 1977, I had a profound reevaluation in this regard. It emerged from a class I sat in on when I was at Harvard on a sabbatical It was a course on Jewish history given by Yosef Yerushalmi, the esteemed Jewish historian. His mind reminded me of my fathers. He wove a brilliant historical Jewish pattern varying between Israel and the diaspora. I wondered why I had never been exposed to this level of thinking in college or at any Jewish institution I had attended. I remembered that at the end of his class that he explained how he had received his surname Yerushalmi. He said something of the following.

When the Russians census-takers came to the town in Tzarist Russian where his ancestor was living, they wanted to give him the surname of the town/city he was living in. Yerushalmis ancestor objected, insisting that he saw himself as a citizen of Yerushalaim, whose ancestors had been forcibly expelled from the city by the Romans. He insisted that he was from Yerushalaim and was given the surname Yerushalmi.

Although my family was certainly pro-Zionist, and visited Israel, it never occurred to any of them to declare that they were from Judea.

Over the years, the simplicity yet profundity of Professor Yerushalmis remarks have sunk in, especially as our people, at least the Ashkenazi portion, have been more and more accused of being nothing short of colonialists, no different than the Europeans who colonized South Africa. More and more I have come to understand there is only one response to this for an American Jew. I am from Judea, and as such am part of the indigenous population of Israel. This, of course, is the underlying message of Zionism which has been so tarnished along the way. We must reclaim it.

Say after me, We are from Judea, by the accident of historical fate, our ancestors were born elsewhere, in the golah or perhaps the diaspora, and even if we have made our lives elsewhere, Professor Yerushalmis ancestor was profoundly right and prescient.

One more time, my Ashkenazi (and indeed Sephardic) Jewish American brothers and sisters. Our people came to America from Judea -- by way of a few stops along the way. It is time to give up identification with European countries of origin. Russia, Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Lithuania, Romania, Germany, Austria., Italy, Belgium, etc., and even England. and France, let alone the Arab world, have been way stations, sometimes benign and episodically very bloody We are Judean-Americans. Pro-Israel evangelicals understand this -- why do we shy away from this identification? Why do we shy away from a biblical identification in thinking, trusting in the false gods of Hellenism, in whatever form?

And this is the very honest and best response of American Jews to the growing charges that we are colonialists. Our people came to America from Judea -- by way of a few stops along the journey! And we are the people of the Book. Period.

Image: Pixabay

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Today, over 62,000,000 abortions have been performed in the United States. That number is more than ten times larger than the 6 million Jews who died in the Holocaust during WW II. This gross, callous indifference to the sanctity of life was predicted long before the Supreme Court upheld the killing of unborn babies (Roe v. Wade, 1973).

Americans were warned that legalizing abortion would send the nation into a downward moral slide that would lead to a diminished view of human life at any stage. But Progressives ignored that caution and pressed on with their agenda to ensure abortions were legally protected. One would think such a victory would suffice, but apparently, their bloodlust has no bounds. Since Biden became president, there is growing evidence that demonstrates what little regard social Democrats have for human life...at any stage.

There is no better example than the thousands of deaths that occur as a direct consequence of the Progressives' open-door policy at our southern border. An alliance of Mexican drug cartels with jihadists use the weak belly of our nation to smuggle tons of made-in-China fentanyl into the U.S. Approximately 90,000 people die annually to drug overdosing, 60% due to fentanyl. According to CDC:

Most of the increases in fentanyl deaths over the last three years do not involve prescription fentanyl but are related to illicitly-made fentanyl that is being mixed with or sold as heroin  with or without the users' knowledge and increasing as counterfeit pills.

There's reason to believe that these fentanyl deaths are intentional. In the book Unrestricted Warfare, two Chinese military officers wrote that China's total war strategy against the U.S. includes any and all non-military means. Their making and peddling of this deadly drug into the U.S. is an example. And while drug-trafficking cartels make millions of dollars to advance other money-making ventures  sex-trafficking and counterfeit pharmaceutical production  their jihadist cohorts use their profits to finance the global movement of spreading sharia to non-Islamic parts of the world through violence and subversion.

Clearly, Americans would be safer if the southern border were sealed. But Progressives ignore the safety aspect, instead favoring an open-door policy that injects misery, mayhem, and murder into our nation. Their policies regarding illegal immigration along the border have led to the deaths of thousands of U.S. citizens and other violent crimes as well. Yet illegal aliens are let into the country, many of whom are infected with COVID and other communicable diseases, then transplanted throughout America to infect others.

Speaking of COVID, it was the staunch Progressive social Democrat, Governor Andrew Cuomo, who housed infected patients inside nursing homes, knowing that elderly citizens were highly vulnerable to the virus. FOX News reported that Cuomo was responsible for over 1,000 nursing home deaths.

Unfortunately, many more citizens have died as a consequence of receiving the COVID-19 shot. A news report, drawing information from the CDC's Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), stated that "[i]n just the first four months of this year, the U.S. government has recorded more deaths after COVID vaccinations than from all other vaccines administered in the United States between mid-1997 and the end of 2013." VAERS records also reveal that many people receiving the shots have suffered severe medical complications as a result. Nevertheless, Progressive bureaucrats downplay that fallout and push the vaccine, insisting that everybody get "vaccinated"...even people who virologist Dr. Robert Malone said should not receive the shots.

For more evidence that Progressives have little to no regard for human life (or suffering), consider their callous attitude toward crime, violence, and high murder rates in many of our largest urban areas  especially those run by Democrat officials. It's because of progressive policies, like defunding the police, releasing violent criminals without bail, and removing qualified immunity protection for police officers, that murder rates and other violent crimes are skyrocketing. And who is it that suffers under such policies but minority citizens living in these inner cities?

Finally, we've all witnessed the cold disregard Biden has shown for Americans left behind in Afghanistan after his unilateral pull-out of U.S. troops stationed there. This situation is highly reminiscent of Hillary Clinton's abandonment of an ambassador and three other Americans in Benghazi, all of whom were killed.

This callous attitude that Progressives show toward anyone who needlessly suffers or dies as a consequence of their incompetent policies is not happenstance. It's the result of their longtime obsession with totalitarian movements. The communist and Marxist ideologies that they find so attractive were spawned by amoral, cold-blooded despots like Stalin and Mao  men who are responsible for 20 million and 65 million deaths, respectively. Progressives have deified these two thugs and regularly glorify communist revolutionists, such as Fidel Castro, literally a psychopathic madman, and Che Guevara, his equally despicable accomplice during the Cuban Revolution. Should we be surprised that Progressives exhibit much the same disregard for human life in the cause of their own anti-American revolution? No. We should be alarmed.

Today's Progressives have lost their moral compass. They are positioning themselves between us and our God-given right of life and liberty. They must be stopped.

David Bores served as an Army officer for 23 years and 19 years as a civilian peace officer in Georgia, culminating as chief of police.

Image: Marco Bellucci via Flickr, CC BY 2.0 (cropped).

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As I write this, Portland, Oregon's city council has decided to delay voting on Mayor Ted Wheeler's proposal that the City of Portland stop purchasing goods and services from Texas and that it prohibit city employees from traveling on official business to Texas as long as the Texas Heartbeat Act remains in force. The council decided it needed to think more about the consequences. That's smart of them, because there are many.

Exactly how much did official travel of Portland City staff to Texas cost this past year? This during a year where budget reductions were first taken from out-of-town travel. And if there was any expenditure at all, how much of that was spent in Texas? What a buffoon to think an inconsequential budget item in a city the size of El Paso would matter to the great state of Texas!

I wonder, how far is he willing to take this impotent virtue-signaling?

The city council's website does not include this as an agenda item yet, and I couldn't find a copy of the emergency resolution. My first thought on hearing this was "No more Rio Red grapefruit for you!" Inquiring minds would like answers:

Will he prohibit employees on per diem travel from purchasing fuel from ExxonMobil (#2 among Fortune 500 companies), Phillips 66 (#28), Valero Energy (#31), or Shell Oil? They are all headquartered in Texas.

How about gas, diesel, natural gas, oil, and other lubricants used in official vehicles? Any of this come from Texas? How about jet fuel for Portland International Airport? Perhaps container cargo ships using one of Portland's ports should look elsewhere for refueling.

Frito Lay, 7-11, Pizza Hut, Dr Pepper/Snapple, Blue Bell Ice Cream, and Whataburger are all headquartered in Texas. A boycott somewhat limits sources of snacks and quick meals for employees on the go, doesn't it? No stopping at an en route 7-11 for a quick bag of Funyuns, Rold Gold pretzels, Grandma's Cookies, or Flamin' Hot Cheetos, all washed down with a cold A&W root beer, Ted?

I haven't forgotten the upwardly mobile lefty public servants here: Whole Foods Market is also a Texas firm. Sun Chips and Smart Food snacks are on the list. So too is a whole raft of popular juice drinks, including Orangina.

Portland, with 2.2% of the population of Texas, has 25 times the number of homeless per capita. What a bang for your "defund the police" buck, Mayor Wheeler.

Will employees no longer be able to travel officially on American or Southwest Airlines, both headquartered in Texas? With tax revenue falling due to business closures, thus no travel budget, this might not matter.

Will the city jail be prohibited from purchasing supplies from SYSCO to feed its guests? Will the I.T. staff get a memo to stop using products and services from AT&T (#9), Architel, Dell, Hitachi, and Texas Instruments?

Will they refuse any shipments that arrive via BNSF railway or transported on Peterbilt trucks? Will anything received via FedEx be returned to sender?

Will there be no Kimberly-Clark products in city bathrooms?

No Beyonce or Janis or Selena playing over the DMV waiting room P.A. system?

Lily-White Portland, with 9.7% of its 650,000 population Hispanic or Latino and 6% Black, is trying to do dirt on Texas, with 41% of its 29 million population Hispanic/Latino and 13% Black. How about that! Looks as if killing babies is more important to Ted and the Portland City Council than identity politics. Looks kinda racist to me.

Texas had its share of George Floyd riots, although most were truly peaceful. Portland has been under siege by Antifa for going on two years now. Ted Wheeler has tried to placate them, pandered to them, refused federal support, called for federal support, and tried to run them out  and so far nothing's worked. Poor Ted, inconsistent as the day is long. What a moron. He should take care of his log-sized problems at home before turning his eyes elsewhere, any elsewhere.

Anony Mee is a retired public servant.

Image: Ted Wheeler. Public domain.

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As the Democrat media continue to push all Americans to become vaccinated, there remain some eighty-five million who have yet to take the shot. Many of the unvaccinated, according to a recent ABC News poll, distrust "the vaccines' safety and effectiveness." Yet distrust does not begin and end with vaccines.

Instead, the distrust in vaccines is a direct result of distrust in the Democrat media. Following years of Democrat media disinformation, thoughtful Americans have become skeptical of mainstream news. Democrat media portrayals of police brutality, Russian collusion, and election integrity are just a few examples of such disinformation. It is this kind of disinformation that has left many Americans questioning the validity of the Democrat media and their campaign on behalf of vaccines.

The Democrat media strategically manipulated public opinion of the Michael Brown shooting to further their agenda of retribution for historical injustices perpetrated upon black Americans. The media exploited Brown's death to portray him as a victim of police brutality, but this characterization is simply not true. Brown can be seen on video stealing cigars shortly before his confrontation with police officer Darren Wilson. There is no credible evidence indicating that his hands were up. There is no credible evidence indicating that he cried, "Don't shoot." To the contrary, witness and autopsy evidence indicate that Brown was shot in the top of the head as he bull-rushed Officer Wilson. A grand jury that included three blacks refused an indictment against Officer Wilson. A subsequent investigation by the Obama Justice Department supported that decision. Michael Brown was clearly not a victim of police brutality. Yet the Democrat media still ran with their "hands up, don't shoot" narrative.

The Democrat media, pushing the Russian collusion story in support of a politicized FBI, used the discredited Steele dossier as they sought to destroy Donald Trump, first as a candidate and then through impeachment as the president of the United States. That the Steele dossier was a product of the Clinton campaign was irrelevant to the Democrat media. And although Steele's outrageous accusations of Russian collusion and deviant sexual behavior proved to be unsubstantiated, the Democrat media would not be dissuaded in their crusade to destroy Trump. It is apparent that the Democrat media purposefully misled the American people by focusing on the salacious elements of the Steele dossier while burying its obvious lack of credibility. Yet the Democrat media portrayed those who saw the Russian collusion fiasco as a hoax as irredeemable Trumpists.

Despite a lack of clear and convincing evidence demonstrating that Joe Biden was fraudulently elected to the presidency, there were numerous instances of election procedural improprieties in the 2020 presidential race. Improper election practices involving fraudulent ballots and altered vote totals may not have occurred in the 2020 elections, but unconstitutional COVID-related changes made to election procedures most certainly exposed the process to fraud. Pennsylvania's Secretary of State, Kathy Boockvar, for example, changed voting procedures just two days before the 2020 Election Day. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court later ruled that Boockvar lacked the authority to do so in the absence of approval from the Republican-majority state Legislature. Yet somehow, the Democrat media portray those who seek to reveal and correct these improprieties as irrational right-wing conspiracy theorists.

Now the Democrat media continually tell the American people that the COVID vaccines are safe and effective. And perhaps they are. But questions do remain. Vaccines once thought to be safe and effective ultimately proved to be dangerous. The first polio vaccine program in 1955 was halted because it actually caused a polio outbreak. In 1976, the swine flu vaccine proved to be unsafe as its use increased risk of Guillain-Barre syndrome. And there are medical professionals with vaccination expertise, such as Dr. Robert Malone, who have expressed serious concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the current COVID vaccines.

Maybe the COVID vaccines are safe and effective for all Americans. Perhaps the COVID vaccines are appropriate only for those with comorbidities. No one can know for certain at this point in time. Yet the Democrat media seem to be certain. The Democrat media tell the American people that Michael Brown was a victim of police brutality, that Trump colluded with Russia, and that election integrity concerns are unfounded. The Democrat media also tell America that the COVID vaccines are safe and effective.

Would the Democrat media that intentionally misled the American people on matters as serious as police brutality, impeachment of a president, and election integrity also mislead the American people on the issue of COVID vaccines? Maybe. And maybe that is the reason for vaccine hesitancy.

Jeff Cuttler can be reached at cuttlerj@comcast.net.

Image via Pixnio.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Peter Boghossian become newsworthy about four years ago when he co-published in legitimate academic journals nonsensical papers about dog rape at dog parks and the penis as a social structure. Academia, rather than being embarrassed and reforming itself, doubled down, turning him into a pariah. His efforts to teach open inquiry and logical thinking in his classes also saw his woke students turn on him. Boghossian has finally given up. He resigned from Portland State University and published an illuminating open letter explaining exactly what drove him out.

In his open letter, which you can read in its entirety at Common Sense with Bari Weiss, Boghossian describes an academic system that has completely abandoned any fealty to the old values of curiosity, rationality, open-mindedness, and the art of challenging people's ideas without seeking to destroy them. Indeed, given that his specialties "are critical thinking, ethics and the Socratic method," and his classes cover topics such as "Science, Pseudoscience, and the Philosophy of Education," Boghossian has built his academic life around principles of free inquiry, free speech, and logic.

Boghossian explains that in the past, universities supported these principles, but, at least at Portland State University, they have abandoned each one:

I've invited a wide range of guest lecturers to address my classes, from Flat-Earthers to Christian apologists to global climate skeptics to Occupy Wall Street advocates. I'm proud of my work. I invited those speakers not because I agreed with their worldviews, but primarily because I didn't. From those messy and difficult conversations, I've seen the best of what our students can achieve: questioning beliefs while respecting believers; staying even-tempered in challenging circumstances; and even changing their minds. I never once believed  nor do I now  that the purpose of instruction was to lead my students to a particular conclusion. Rather, I sought to create the conditions for rigorous thought; to help them gain the tools to hunt and furrow for their own conclusions. This is why I became a teacher and why I love teaching. But brick by brick, the university has made this kind of intellectual exploration impossible. It has transformed a bastion of free inquiry into a Social Justice factory whose only inputs were race, gender, and victimhood and whose only outputs were grievance and division.

What's concerning, and what we're seeing time and again in the corporate world as university students fill positions, is that thinking in academia is verboten. Instead, students are taught unswerving fealty to extremist ideas:

Students at Portland State are not being taught to think. Rather, they are being trained to mimic the moral certainty of ideologues. Faculty and administrators have abdicated the university's truth-seeking mission and instead drive intolerance of divergent beliefs and opinions. This has created a culture of offense where students are now afraid to speak openly and honestly.

Boghossian writes that as he saw this turn toward fanaticism in his classes, he tried to challenge it by asking questions about the students' moral certainty. All that happened was that a former student complained about him, causing the university to launch a Title IX investigation. These investigations don't even make a pretense of due process (as many male students falsely accused of rape can attest), and universities have no loyalty to men, especially White men.

Even when the kangaroo inquiry found that the charge against Boghossian was false, the investigator told him that, in the future, he could not discuss any leftist shibboleths if they challenged the notion of "protected classes." It was this censorship that led him to co-author a manifestly nonsensical paper entitled "The Conceptual Penis as a Social Construct"  which a peer-reviewed journal accepted. Collective academia was not amused to find itself, like Hans Christian Andersen's emperor, revealed as stark naked. Boghossian found himself the subject of crude and vile attacks.

Undeterred, Boghossian and his co-authors were able to get other legitimate, peer-reviewed journals to publish even more nonsense, with the best known being about rape in dog parks. His institution, rather than reforming, attacked him, announcing that the editors and readers of the publications, all of whom were exposed as intellectual frauds, were the subjects of an experiment and had not agreed to participate  meaning that Boghossian had violated rules of professional conduct.

Boghossian has more details about the irrationality, fanaticism, and hate that characterize academia. You really must read it. You should also watch Ayaan Hirsi Ali explain how wokeism and fanatical Islam are the same. Boghossian, I think, would agree:

Image: Peter Boghossian. YouTube screen grab.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
So is butt-naked racism against the man who may become California's first black governor OK so long as a Democrat is doing it?

Apparently so, based on how the Los Angeles Times is covering yesterday's egg-hurling incident.

A leftist white woman in a gorilla mask, unsubtle as she could get, hurled an egg at the head of gubernatorial candidate Larry Elder in Venice, California, nearly hitting him, as did another leftist later as Elder was hustled off by his aides into an SUV.

The Los Angeles Times headline, noted by reporter Ryan Saavedra, was incredible:

The newspaper that called Larry Elder a "white supremacist" in a headline now refuses to state in a headline that a white person wearing a monkey mask attacked him. https://t.co/wwgV8FMt4s  Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) September 8, 2021

Would they write the same kind of blase headline were, say, Stacey Abrams, attacked by a white wearing a gorilla mask? The question answers itself.

As Saavedra notes, this would be the same Los Angeles Times that ran a headline a couple of weeks ago calling Larry Elder "the black face of white supremacy," in some amazingly pretzeled Orwellian Newspeak.

That didn't work, so now they claim that Elder was leaving based on the "hostile reception" he drew, as if he were the bad guy here who somehow brought on a bad reaction from some displeased voters with his unpopular ideas. The racist nature of the attack and the disgustingness of the human being who launched the projectile attack, which could have caused injury, were never focused on. Who was she, and why wasn't she arrested for assault intended to interfere with the democratic process  that same democratic process Democrats are still howling about in the Jan. 6 incident? Nope, this was just a "hostile reception," something supposedly to be expected, instead of a racist organized attack. Nothing to see here...

Was Bull Connor resisting racial desegregation orders in the Jim Crow South just a "hostile reception"? Were the lumpy characters blocking the schoolhouse door and spraying foul graffiti complete with hurled tomatoes at a little black girl in New Orleans in 1964 just a "hostile reception"?

Or was the actual story as it had to be covered at the time all about racists who saw their power structure crumbling, with their response to that being violence and force?

Take a look at how eerily similar the attack on Elder photo looks, when cast in black and white, to the photos from the Civil Rights era.

In black and white this photo feels very reminiscent of the dark history of deep racism in the Democratic Party. They may have new masks but the hate is still alive within so many of them. The rest of us have @larryelders back. pic.twitter.com/Av1fOeyY1Q  Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) September 9, 2021

Take a look at Norman Rockwell's iconic 1964 "The Problem We All Live With," a painting of the Civil Rights era, which is brimming with evidence of violence in the filthy graffiti from some "activist" splattered right in the middle of the painting and of course, the smashed hurled objects, similar to eggs  in this case, tomatoes.

Was that a "hostile reception," or was it about something much more? Hint: You can find it in the title of the painting.

But to the Los Angeles Times, this attack was somehow a routine little thing rather than bare-naked racism, as it is now practiced by the left, which views itself as bulletproof to "racism" charges no matter how many racist acts it commits.

It's obvious as heck that hurling eggs at California's first black Republican gubernatorial candidate while wearing a gorilla mask is about racist as it gets. After all, there are all kinds of masks out there, and this white woman selected the black gorilla mask as her "statement" about Elder, knowing she'd get her picture with herself in it in the news from this attack. We need her name  and to see her charged with assault and hate crimes.

You'd think Elder's opponent, Gov. Gavin Newsom, would have said something just to distance himself from the racist attack. After all, he's still trying to get the black and Latino vote over to his side. But actually. he's said nothing.

Where is Black Lives Matter? The organization was founded in Los Angeles by UCLA leftists, and its founder still has her spreads in Malibu and South Central. They too have said nothing.

But Los Angeles Times is particularly disgusting in its coverage, completely casting a false light on what went down and trying to make it look like a routine case of Elder bringing these naked racist attacks onto himself, if not cast racism versus a black guy threatening the power structure as just a trifle of political disagreement amounting to a hostile reception. In fact, it was a couple of racist disruptors trying to shut down free speech and free political activity and silence a black candidate's right to reach out to the voters.

It's appalling. This racism has to be held up to public shame because it certainly is the problem we all live with today.

Correction: An earlier version of this post referred to Elder as the first Black gubernatorial candidate in California. Elder is actually the first Black Republican to run for governor in California. Tom Bradley, a former Los Angeles mayor, ran twice, in 1982 and 1986, heading the Democrat party ticket.

Image: Twitter screen shot.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
Andover, MA (01810)

Today

A few isolated thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low 64F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Andover, MA (01810)

Today

Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low 64F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Samsung Display has unveiled a new 13-inch stretchable OLED display prototype that can stretch vertically to offer an immersive media experience. Samsung revealed the prototype during Global Tech Korea 2021, according to ET News.

A video posted on YouTube gives us a brief demonstration of this new technology via a video of lava. We can see the display shifting in sync with the flowing lava, giving us a hint of what this tech can do.

This Samsung stretchable display can stretch vertically to convert 2D videos into 3D content

One of the strengths of this new stretchable OLED display is the ability to convert standard 2D content into 3D. Samsung has been working on stretchable displays for quite some time now. The company revealed its first stretchable display prototype with similar functionality in 2017. However, Samsung used a 9.1-inch display to demonstrate the technology at the time.

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Samsung said back then that stretchable OLED displays could be used with wearables, IoT products, or even the automotive industry. While we can tell that the company has made significant progress with stretchable displays since then, Samsung is currently focusing on foldable displays.

The South Korean manufacturer recently unveiled the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and the Galaxy Z Flip 3 with foldable displays. Its easy to imagine future iterations of these phones featuring stretchable OLED displays. However, it could just be wishful thinking at this point.

Samsung unveiled a handful of new display technologies at Display Week 2021 in May. One of the most notable announcements was a screen with an under-panel camera or UPC. When adopted, this could bring an end to the typical notch or waterdrop cameras we see on devices.

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While the UPC concept was shown on a laptop, we see no reason why it cant be implemented on phones or tablets. We were also treated with a 17-inch foldable display tablet concept which is as extravagant as it sounds.

Samsung dominates the display industry thanks to its innovations in the OLED segment. One of its biggest competitors, LG Display has announced a handful of exciting display technologies of its own over the past few years.
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(ANSA) - ROME, SEP 9 - Pope Francis will meet Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban when he makes a flying visit to Budapest on Sunday, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said on Thursday.

The meeting will take place at Budapest's Museum of Fine Arts and Hungarian President Janos Ader will be present too.

Orban's hard line on migrants is at odds with the pope's calls for asylum seekers to be received with open arms.

The head of the Catholic Church will be in Budapest for a few hours for the concluding Mass of the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress.

He will then go to Slovakia, where he will stay until Wednesday.

It is his first trip abroad since he had colon surgery in July.

(ANSA).


Tourism: Croatia, 82% of pre-pandemic levels reached in July 3.5 million tourist arrivals and 21.0 million tourist nights

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, SEP 9 - In July 2021, Croatia recorded 3.5 million tourist arrivals and 21.0 million tourist nights in commercial accommodation establishments, which was an increase of 57.3% in tourist arrivals and of 42.9% in tourist nights compared to July 2020, the Croatian Bureau of Statistics (DZS) informed today. Compared to July 2019, it was a decrease in tourist arrivals and nights of 18.0%, meaning that the touristic sector reached 82% of pre-pandemic levels, the DZS noted.



Foreign tourists realised 3.2 million tourist arrivals and 19.2 million nights in July 2021, which was an increase in tourist arrivals of 60.8% and in tourist nights of 44.1% compared to July 2020, the DZS added. (ANSA).





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Bosnia: Belgrade asks High Representative to be impartial Vucic meets Schmidt, the new Head.

(ANSA) - BELGRADE, 09 SET - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met today in Belgrade with the new High Representative of the international community in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Christian Schmidt, whom he asked to exercise his functions impartially.



Serbia, he said, respects Bosnia and Herzegovina's territorial integrity, as well as the integrity of Republika Srpska, the Serb-majority entity that makes up Bosnia and Herzegovina alongside the other entity, the Croat-Muslim Federation.



"The three peoples of Bosnia and Herzegovina (Serbs, Bosniacs, and Croats) - Vucic added - must be able to decide their own destiny with as little interference and pressure as possible from outside." The international community imposed the High Representative to supervise the observance of the Dayton agreements that in 1995 put an end to the war in Bosnia. This role, however, is strongly opposed by the Bosnian Serb component of the country, according to which the High Representative would have been established in an exclusively anti-Serb function to favor the Bosnian Muslim component.



Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, supported by Moscow, has for some time been calling for the abolition of this authority and refuses to comply with his directives, boycotting every decision. Tensions rose after German Schmidt's predecessor, Austrian Valentin Inzko, imposed a law last July, shortly before the end of his term, banning denial of the Srebrenica genocide and glorification of war criminals. (ANSA).





 Copyright ANSA - All rights reserved
BRUSSELS - EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell is on an official visit to Tunisia on Thursday, and tweeted that his visit comes "at a crucial time for the country".

"I come to listen to our Tunisian friends - authorities and civil society - to better understand the situation in its complexity and to support the Tunisian people in building a sustainable democracy," Borrell tweeted.

Borrell's visit to Tunisia is the first in his role as EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

On Thursday he will meet with independent organisms, established by the country's constitution in 2014, as well as representatives of civil society and other political leaders.

Borrell will meet with the president's chief of staff, Nadia Akacha, and with Economy Minister Sihem Boughdiri.

On Friday, Borrell will be received by Tunisian President Kais Saied, with a press conference to follow, said a statement from the EU External Action Service.
Lebanon: NGO, Iran oil arrives in Syrian port of Banyas 'Will be smuggled by land to Lebanon by Hezbollah'

(ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, SEPT 9 - Two Iranian oil tankers carrying oil and other fuel destined for Lebanon on the request of pro-Iranian Hezbollah docked at the Syrian port of Banyas in the Eastern Mediterranean, and the cargo will be smuggled by land to Lebanon by the same Lebanese Shiite militants, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).



It said two Iranian cargo ships arrived at the port of Banyas, as announced in August by Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.



According to Middle East analysts, the two ships transited the Suez Canal, turning off their transponders to avoid being intercepted by Israeli and US radar, a claim that cannot be independently verified on the ground.



The Lebanese government has long been working with the United States to respect the regime of sanctions imposed by Washington on Iran and Syria.



The Lebanese military, formally working in the fight against smuggling along the Syrian-Lebanese border, is directly supported by the United States, which in recent days allocated other tens of millions of dollars in aid to the armed forces in Beirut.



Hezbollah is allied both with Tehran and Damascus, but is an integral part of Lebanese institutions, with ministers in the outgoing government, MPs in parliament, and officials in central and local institutions.



Lebanon has been dealing since 2019 with its worse financial and economic crisis in recent decades.



SOHR said the Iranian fuel will not enter Lebanon from Syria legally because this would require a formal endorsement from authorities in Beirut.



Instead, Hezbollah, which has been in Syria for years, will transport the cargo over land, in the region of Homs that borders the eastern Lebanese Bekaa Valley.



Sources said the passage will take place through close collaboration between Hezbollah and the 4th Division of the Syrian Army, commanded by generals who are very close to Syrian President Bashar al Assad and directly backed by Iranian forces in Syria.(ANSAmed).




NAPLES - Emirati scientist Razan Al Mubarak, in a speech following her election as new president of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) during the organisation's World Conservation Congress held in Marseille, France, said now is a "critical moment" with "the duty to bring the protection of nature to the centre of the global agenda".



Al Mubarak will lead the large international organisation that includes 1,400 members from 150 countries and is a United Nations General Assembly Permanent Observer.



The IUCN launched strong challenges from Marseille, where women are at the heart of environmental efforts on the Arab peninsula, as confirmed by the re-election of Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri of the UAE as Regional Councillor for West Asia.



"In the first mandate in 2016, I worked to build a strong and proactive regional network, capable of responding to challenges and also implementing IUCN programmes, taking tough initiatives," she said.



The network of IUCN members in the UAE rose to six, starting with the Emirati Ministry of Environment and Climate Change through NGOs in the sector.



The country also hosted the IUCN event on biodiversity in West Asia with representatives from 11 countries and 77 environmental organisations, on cooperation on the topic.



Topics tackled at the congress in Marseille included plastic in the Mediterranean with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.



"We have to be able to truly promote sustainable tourism, putting biodiversity at the heart of our programmes in the sector," Mitsotakis said.



A loud alarm came from the recent IUCN report on the Mediterranean titled "Mare Plasticum", which spelled out death for marine animals.



"Sea turtles mistake plastic for jellyfish, and in some areas 80% of them have ingested plastic," said Francois Galgani, marine researcher with the French centre IFREMER.



Even nets abandoned at sea by fishermen continue to kill, and meanwhile environmental organisations are putting pressure on hotels and tour operators to stop the use of every type of plastic at sea and near coasts.
ROME - The Italian Coast said Thursday that it averted a disaster, saving 125 asylum seekers on two boats off Isola dei Conigli, a small island near Lampedusa, after one of the vessels starting taking on water in a big way in choppy waters.

The bad sea conditions made the operation particularly complex and rescue swimmers were needed.

All of the 125 people, including 49 women and 20 minors, are on good health although several are in a state of shock.


Syria: Damascus forces enter Daraa after militias surrender Assault finished, result of Russia-mediated accord in August

(ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, SEPT 9 - Syrian government forces on Thursday entered Daraa, the capital of the eponymous southern Syrian region on the border with Jordan that since the end of July has been the site of an intense government military siege against local militia who had controlled some neighborhoods of the city for years.



The Syrian government news agency Sana reported that checkpoints were set up in the city, which in 2011 was the epicentre of massive and unprecedented popular anti-regime protests that triggered government repression and the resulting internal and regional war.



The entrance of Damascus troops into the rebel districts of Daraa is the result of a long and delicate Russian mediation that took place for the entire month of August between government forces and local forces in Daraa.



The forces are partly supported by the Russian military forces themselves deployed in Syria; partly supported by Iran, an area rival of Russia itself; and partly aligned with the armed opposition, which was defeated in 2018 after the Russian military and government campaign.



An agreement was announced Monday between the parties after a ceasefire accord.



The agreement requires local militias to hand over their weapons and surrender to government forces, and foresees government checkpoints set up in the city under the supervision of the Russian military police.



Daraa fighters who do not intend to surrender or are wanted by the government and risk being tortured in prison are forced to be deported to northwestern Syria, to the Idlib region under Turkish control, where Russia and the Syrian government have for years amassed those defined as "terrorists".



The Syrian government has pledged to lift the siege against Daraa which, according to the UN, has exacerbated the already precarious humanitarian conditions of tens of thousands of civilians in the area.



Local humanitarian organisations have denounced abuses and indiscriminate arrests of civil society activists and fighters from Daraa.(ANSAmed).




Borrell in Tunisia, EU support for sustainable democracy 'Visit during crucial time for country'

(ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, 09 SET - EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell is on an official visit to Tunisia on Thursday, and tweeted that his visit comes "at a crucial time for the country".



"I come to listen to our Tunisian friends - authorities and civil society - to better understand the situation in its complexity and to support the Tunisian people in building a sustainable democracy," Borrell tweeted.



Borrell's visit to Tunisia is the first in his role as EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs.



On Thursday he will meet with independent organisms, established by the country's constitution in 2014, as well as representatives of civil society and other political leaders.



Borrell will meet with the president's chief of staff, Nadia Akacha, and with Economy Minister Sihem Boughdiri.



On Friday, Borrell will be received by Tunisian President Kais Saied, with a press conference to follow, said a statement from the EU External Action Service. (ANSAmed).




Israel: escaped Palestinians, Territories closure extended Manhunt continues

(ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, 09 SET - Israel has extended the closure of entrances and exits to and from the Palestinian Territories through Friday at midnight local time, due to the manhunt currently being conducted by the military to find six Palestinian prisoners who escaped three days ago from Gilboa prison in northern Israel.



There are no repercussions on transit of goods in the West Bank and Gaza, however.



Closure of the Territories is a routine measure that takes place during Jewish festivities, such as recently during Rosh Hashanah, which ended on Wednesday evening with reopening scheduled for Thursday at noon. The military decided to increase troops in the field to find the fugitives: five members of the Islamic Jihad and one member of Fatah.



While a blanket search continues, on Wednesday night clashes were reported in prisons where Palestinian detainees - pushed by factions such as Islamic Jihad - staged protests against the new restrictions imposed by Israeli prison authorities.



Clashes also took place between Palestinian demonstrators and the Israeli military in eight places in the West Bank, with thrown rocks and tyre fires.



Some investigators believe the fugitives are still in Israeli territory, but there are no confirmed reports. (ANSAmed).




Morocco: pro-Islamists go from 125 to 12 seats in parliament Billionaire Akhannouch will lead new governing coalition

(ANSAmed) - RABAT, 09 SET - The liberal centre-right National Rally of Independents party (NRI) in Morocco, led by billionaire Aziz Akhannouch, won Wednesday's parliamentary elections in the country by a large margin.



The pro-Islamists of the Justice and Development party (PJD), which has been in government since 2011 and prior to the elections had 125 seats in parliament, won only 12 seats, with 96% of the ballots counted.



Akhannouch, a former agriculture minister considered very close to the royal palace, won 97 seats, and will lead the new government coalition together with the Authenticity and Modernity party (PAM), which won 82 seats.



Istiqlal, the Independence party, came in third with 78 seats.



Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit announced the still-partial results on Thursday morning.



The center-left lineup garnered a hundred seats to be divided into four parties.



The result was partly due to the electoral reform on a proportional and regional basis, but above all to the disappointment of voters who had supported the populist programs of moderate Islamists and in recent years witnessed government choices substantially directed by the politics of King Mohamed VI.



Voter turnout hit a surprising 50.35% percent, compared to 43% in the previous elections in 2016.



The high turnout was due in part to the fact that for the first time in Morocco, 18 million voters chose the 395 MPs on the same day as municipal and regional representatives. (ANSAmed).




Queen Elizabeth II inspects an Honour Guard at the Palace Of Holyrood House during the Ceremony of The Keys on June 28, 2021 in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The Queen and the royal family are supporters of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement, one of Her Majestys representatives has said.

Sir Ken Olisa, the first black Lord-Lieutenant for London, revealed to Channel 4 that he had discussed the topic of racism with members of the royal household in the wake of George Floyds murder in the US.

In an interview with the broadcaster, he said: I have discussed with the royal household this whole issue of race particularly in the last 12 months since the George Floyd incident.

Its a hot conversation topic. The question is what more can we do to bind society to remove these barriers.

They [the royals] care passionately about making this one nation bound by the same values.

Sir Ken said the George Floyd murder sparked his conversations about racism with the royal family (Channel 4)

Asked if the palace support BLM, Sir Ken said: The answer is easily yes.

During the programme called Black To Front which is to be aired on Friday at 7pm and be produced by an all-black presenting and reporting team, Sir Ken also said the Queen had sought his advice after the Grenfell fire on whether to visit the site of the tragedy.

He said he advised the palace to go, but added: I remember thinking as it all happened, it was quite scary, we didnt know whether she would be booed or have things thrown at her etc and when she got out of the car all these people applauded.

It comes after the Duke and Duchess of Sussex accused the royal family of racism in their Oprah Winfrey interview earlier this year.

Meghan said an unnamed royal  not the Queen nor the Duke of Edinburgh  raised concerns with Harry about how dark their son Archies skin tone might be before he was born.

The couple also suggested racism could be a factor behind the decision to deny Archie, the first mixed-race great-grandchild of the Queen, security protection or the title of prince.

The Queen later issued a statement saying that the issues raised would be dealt with privately as a family, but that some recollections may vary, while the Duke of Cambridge defended the monarchy, saying were very much not a racist family soon after the interview aired.

Buckingham Palace has also admitted it must do more and is not where it would like to be in terms of diversity, after publishing figures that revealed its proportion of ethnic minority employees stands at just 8.5%, with a target of 10% for 2022.

The Queens household also brought in a change to its Diversity Strategy in early 2020  which pre-dates the Oprah interview  to one that actively emphasises the importance of inclusion.
DENVER (AP)  A Colorado city announced Wednesday it has agreed to pay $3 million to a woman with dementia who was roughly arrested by police last year after being suspected of shoplifting, money which her family said will pay for the around-the-clock care she has needed after her condition deteriorated following her arrest.

Then-Officer Austin Hopp arrested Karen Garner, 73, after she left a store without paying for $13.88 worth of items in Loveland, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of Denver in June 2020. Police body camera video shows that after she turned away from him, he grabbed her arm and pushed her to the ground, still holding the wildflowers she had been picking as she walked through a field. A federal lawsuit that Garner filed claimed he dislocated her shoulder by shoving her handcuffed left arm forward onto the hood of a patrol car.

Police station surveillance video also showed Hopp and others officers talking about the arrest, laughing and joking at times as Garner sat in a holding cell.

Officials in Loveland apologized to Garner and her family in the announcement of the proposed settlement and listed the steps they have taken in response to her arrest, including a pending independent investigation and changes to how it reviews cases when police use force. They pointed out that Hopp and another officer who responded to help him are both being criminally prosecuted for their actions.

This video from the Loveland Police Department body camera footage shows Karen Garner on the ground while being arrested on June 26, 2020. Garner, who has dementia, had been walking through a field picking wildflowers when an officer stopped her because she was suspected of shoplifting. The city of Loveland announced Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, that it will pay $3 million to settle a lawsuit over her arrest. (Loveland Police Department via AP)

The settlement with Karen Garner will help bring some closure to an unfortunate event in our community but does not upend the work we have left to do, City Manager Steve Adams said.

The announcement came a day after the death of 19-year-old, who was armed with a knife and in a reported mental health crisis when he was shot by a Loveland police officer last month. It also came a day after Garner's lawyer, Sarah Schielke, released internal reports that show that some supervisors had signed off on Hopp's use of force against Garner, including some who noted they had watched the body camera footage.

While the settlement will allow Garner's family to provide her with the best care possible, Schielke said full justice required a change in leadership. Everyone who was involved with Garner's arrest or fostered an environment where it could happen should lose their jobs, she said, offering to donate $50,000 to a dementia or Alzheimer's charity if the city's police chief resigned or was fired in the next month.

Chief Bob Ticer told The Denver Post that he did not plan to step down.

I understand the emotion, I understand those demands, he said. But my responsibility here is to ensure the investigations (into the Garner incident) that are moving forward are handled professionally.

Garner, a mother of three and a grandmother of nine, has not talked about what happened since the day after, when she kept asking why this had happened to her, her daughter-in-law Shannon Steward said. After struggling with whether to settle the case since they could not know what Garner wanted, her family agreed to after finding a letter she had written to her family several years ago at the beginning of her dementia which showed that she thought peace and closure was important for her loved ones, Schielke said. It said, in part, Don't make it any rougher on yourselves by living in the past. Look out the front window. Don't dwell on what's in the rear view mirror.

Garner's daughter, Alissa Swartz, also called for change in the police department.

I don't want to see this happen to anyone else's families again. I don't want to see it, said Swartz, who had sprigs of wildflowers pinned to her shirt as did Steward.

Garner is not aware of the settlement, which will have to be approved by a probate court because of her condition and administered by a conservator, Schielke said.

Hopp has been charged with second-degree assault in the arrest. At a court hearing last month to weigh the evidence against him, his lawyer, Jonathan Datz, argued that Hopp's supervisors determined his actions to be acceptable, the Loveland Reporter-Herald reported.

A representative from Datzs office said Wednesday that he declined to comment.

The body camera footage shows that when Hopp has Garner pushed against the hood of his car, she tried to turn around and repeated that she was trying to go home. He then pushed her back against the car and moved her bent left arm up near her head, holding it, saying, Are you finished? Are you finished? We dont play this game.

Investigators found that Hopp filed reports to mislead his superiors and protect himself, according to his arrest affidavit. He did not mention Garners shoulder injury in an initial report.

In a report filed after being told that she was going to the hospital, he wrote that Garner was asked several times if she wanted medical attention but that she did not answer, according to the affidavit.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  North Korea paraded goose-stepping soldiers and military hardware in its capital overnight in a celebration of the nations 73rd anniversary that was overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, state media reported Thursday.

State television hasnt broadcast footage of the parade as of Thursday morning and the full range of weaponry displayed during the event wasn't immediately clear.

But there were indications that the parade, which North Korea said involved paramilitary and public security forces, was toned down compared to previous military parades in January and October last year, when the North rolled out some of its most provocative strategic weapons threatening Asian rivals and the American homeland.

State media made no mention of ballistic weaponry being showcased this time.

The Korean Central News Agency and the Rodong Sinmun newspaper published photos and reports of fighter jets flying in formation above a brightly illuminated Kim Il Sung Square, named after Kims state-founding grandfather, and artillery pieces hauled by tractors. There were also marches of military search dogs and troops wearing gas masks and bright red suits.

The KCNA portrayed an event that was focused on domestic messaging, praising the marching units civilian defense organizations and public security forces for supposedly making huge contributions in anti-virus work, rebuilding communities destroyed by floods, and efforts to improve an economy battered by international sanctions and pandemic border closures.

Photos showed Kim, wearing a cream suit, waving from a balcony toward the assembled troops and spectators. The reports didnt say if Kim made a speech during the event.

The KCNA said Ri Il Hwan, a member of the ruling Workers Partys Politburo, did make a speech during the parade. He said the Norths government will continue to strengthen defense capabilities and firmly defend the dignity and fundamental interests of our people and solve everything our own way with our own efforts on the principle of self-reliance.

We shouldnt overinterpret foreign policy or negotiating signals from a parade thats primarily aimed at domestic political audiences, said Leif-Eric Easley, a professor of international studies at Seouls Ewha Womans University. The parade is intended to show strength and serve as a quarantine morale booster.

North Korea often celebrates major state anniversaries by displaying thousands of goose-stepping troops and its most advanced military hardware in parades at Kim Il Sung Square.

Previous nighttime parades were not aired live but a taped broadcast was shown on state TV hours later. The one overnight Wednesday and early Thursday was the third straight held at night  timed for spectacle.

KCNAs report came hours after South Koreas Joint Chiefs of Staff said it was closely monitoring the North after detecting signs of a military parade.

Amid a stalemate in diplomacy with the U.S., Kim and his powerful sister have emphasized North Korea will boost its nuclear deterrent and preemptive strike capabilities while demanding that Washington abandon its hostile policies  a reference to the U.S. maintaining sanctions and refusing to accept North Korea as a nuclear power.

The military parade likely is a measured attempt at pressuring the Biden administration over the diplomatic freeze after Kim failed to leverage his arsenal for economic benefits during the Trump presidency.

But experts say Kim is facing perhaps his toughest moment as he approaches a decade in rule, with North Korea maintaining a border lockdown indefinitely to keep out the coronavirus and with no prospect in sight to end international sanctions.

Last month, Kim Yo Jong berated the United States and South Korea for continuing their combined military exercises, which she said were the most vivid expression of the U.S. hostile policy.

She and another senior North Korean official threatened unspecified countermeasures that would leave the allies facing a security crisis.

The allies say the drills are defensive in nature, but they have canceled or downsized them in recent years to create space for diplomacy or in response to COVID-19.
The student loan debt crisis arose after legislative changes over the years that created a system of largely unchecked lending to millions of students, according to a reporter and author of a new book.

"If you just keep on issuing student debt in the same fashion, which is basically giving families a blank check, you're just going to have more and more families end up in unrepayable debt over the years, and it doesn't really solve the underlying issue," Josh Mitchell, Wall Street Journal reporter and author of "The Debt Trap: How Student Loans Became a National Catastrophe," said on Yahoo Finance Live (video above).

Student loans 'became the path of least resistance'

The growth of the student loan program, starting with the Lyndon B. Johnson administration in the mid-1960s, was the result of an increasing desire to see the American population obtain college credentials to become more competitive internationally and promote social mobility.

President Lyndon B Johnson signs the Higher Education Act in San Marcos, Texas, November 8, 1965. (Photo by Frank Wolfe/Interim Archives/Getty Images)

Consequently, according to Mitchell, the intentions in creating the student loan machinery were noble in that they were devised "to reduce inequality, to help poor people move into the middle class."

Data shows that college degrees generally provide a good return on investment (depending on the college). Furthermore, according to a New York Fed study in July 2020, taking a gap year before attending college "reduces the return to college by a quarter and can cost tens of thousands of dollars in lost lifetime earnings."

A graduate fixes her outfit before getting her picture taken in Washington Square Park, New York on May 19, 2021. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP)

Given the benefits, Mitchell said, "Congress was very reluctant to cut off anyone's access to college. And it just became the path of least resistance to give people loans."

At the same time, he added, "it became very easy to ignore the fact that a lot of people were defaulting on their loans and a lot of people lied to themselves about the fact that people would repay this debt."

Congress "just applied rose-colored glasses to this program throughout the years and said: 'Look, we need to give our constituents access to student loans,'" Mitchell said, and individual lawmakers were resistant to reducing "access to this golden ticket to the middle class."

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Fast forward to 2021: With roughly 44 million student loan borrowers owing $1.7 trillion in debt, prominent Democrats have repeatedly urged President Joe Biden to use executive authority to enact broad student loan forgiveness.

Mitchell noted that the cancellation of interest on federally-backed student loans is one route to fix the problem given how much bad debt was on the U.S. government's books. Based on Mitchell's reporting, the federal government is expected to lose more than $400 billion from the student loan program.

"If you look at how much debt is what I would call toxic debt, meaning it's never going to get repaid, anywhere from a 1/3 or more of the debt is not going to get repaid, according to a report that took place under the Trump administration," Mitchell explained. "That's approaching the amount of toxic debt that was on private lenders' books during the housing crash: Private lenders lost $535 billion on subprime-mortgages during the 2008 financial crisis."

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Aarthi is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. She can be reached at aarthi@yahoofinance.com. Follow her on Twitter @aarthiswami.

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He was proud to be a part of the history of missions in Cuba
JOHNS CREEK, Ga.  Despite his age, Charlie Kelly can draw from memory nearly any story you want to hear.

He remembers the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor, growing up during World War II and serving in the Korean War. He can also recount numerous stories about accompanying his father, the Rev. Charles M. Kelly, to the so-called death house at the old South Carolina state penitentiary in Columbia.

On Aug. 26, the Johns Creek Veterans Association gathered at Park Place at Newtown School to celebrate Charlies 90th birthday one day early. Lt. Col. Mike Mizell, president of the Johns Creek Veterans Association, said Charlie has been an active member since the organization was founded. Theyve known each other for at least a decade.

This guys an amazing historian, Mizell said. I mean, the stuff that he knows. Its amazing to sit and listen to him talk about all the stuff that hes been through. His stories are phenomenal.

According to the Korean War Veterans Memorial Foundation, there are about 500,000 Korean War veterans still living, but about 600 die every day. Most of them are now in their early to mid-90s.

Growing up, Charlie said he always knew he wanted to make a career in the U.S. Navy or be an attorney. In high school, and with permission from his parents, he joined ROTC. Later, he attended the University of South Carolina to study pre-law. But his desire for a taste of the Navy remained.

Charlie said there was a great sense of patriotism bursting all over at the time. He recalled walking out of church Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, after his father had just preached his sermon and hearing the newsboys talk on the radio about the attack on Pearl Harbor.

I was in the fourth grade, Charlie said. They immediately started registering men for the draft, and there were just all these men who volunteered. I also grew up near Fort Jackson in Columbia during World War II, when Lt. Col. Jimmy Doolittle trained his fliers to carry out a strike with B25s. One of the copilots attended our church for a couple of weeks, and then he was suddenly gone.

Another memory that sticks out to Charlie is D-Day.

When the allies launched their invasion against France, Charlie said, the community planned to have the church bells ringing all day, and I remember that the church bells rang all over Columbia and people came to church all day that day to pray.

It was a vastly different experience during World War II than what were getting today. There was just a sense of urgency, a sense of patriotism, a sense of love so to speak, Charlie said.

He would go on to serve four years in the Navy Reserve and two years on active duty in Korea, where he reached the rank of machinists mate third class and earned 11 ribbons and medals and two battle stars despite never seeing the battlefield.

We were sealed up down there in the engine room and you could hear guns roar, but I never saw any of it because I was down there opening and closing the throttle, Charlie said with a short laugh.

He returned home after the ceasefire was signed in July 1953, formally ending the war in Korea. He met his wife of 64 years shortly afterward while working in Miami. They have one son and one grandson together.

Charlie said he had planned to go back to law school following his time in the military, but instead he was promoted at his local Woolworths store from manager to regional office executive in Atlanta to the corporate headquarters in New York, where he stayed for 14 years. He spent five of those years as the president of the Woolworths PFD Food Services.

In 1987, Charlie moved back to Atlanta and retired early. However, he continues to enjoy meeting with the Johns Creek Veterans Association and pursues hobbies like woodcarving, fly-fishing and reading.

In 2016, Charlie wrote a book, Next Stop, Eternity, which recounts both the history and his accounts of the 34 executions his father witnessed while he was the lead chaplain at the state penitentiary in South Carolina.

He said he hopes the stories shine a light on the crimes and punishments of an era of racial tensions and controversy about the death penalty. But at 90 years old, Charlie thinks his writing days are over and has no plans to write another book.

Next Stop, Eternity, can be found on Amazon or online at LifeRich Publishing.
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It's about time they were required

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YEREVAN, SEPTEMBER 9, ARMENPRESSS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian sent a congratulatory letter to President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon on the 30th anniversary of Independence, the Armenian Presidents Office told Armenpress.

The letter reads:

Armenia attaches great importance to the strengthening of mutual relations with the Republic of Tajikistan. Our countries run a productive and mutually beneficial cooperation both within bilateral format and the framework of a number of international and regional organizations.

I am convinced that our joint efforts will contribute to the deepening of the ties between Armenia and Tajikistan in different areas for the benefit of our peoples.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, 9 SEPTEMBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 9 September, USD exchange rate is down by 0.49 drams to 493.17 drams. EUR exchange rate is up by 0.31 drams to 583.52 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate is up by 0.03 drams to 6.75 drams. GBP exchange rate is up by 2.43 drams to 681.46 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price is down by 284.46 drams to 28318.43 drams. Silver price up by 0.72 drams to 385.53 drams. Platinum price is down by 237.91 drams to 15808.21 drams.
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The man was intercepted at the airport carrying certain medicines illegally

New Delhi: The Delhi High Court has refused to grant permission to an Afghan national, who is embroiled in a customs case, to go to Afghanistan to look after his family, saying there is very bleak chance of his coming back to India in view of prevailing circumstances in his country.

The high court said there was no ground to release the man's passport and to permit him to leave India without depositing the penalty of Rs 13 lakh imposed on him.

The man, who was to take the flight to Afghanistan, was intercepted at the airport carrying certain medicines illegally and proceedings were initiated against him after which a redemption fine of Rs 9 lakh, determined as per the value of seized goods, and a penalty of Rs 13 lakh was imposed on him by the Additional Commissioner of Customs.

The petitioner has not paid the penalty and wanted to go to Afghanistan on the ground that he has 11 children and his first wife has been killed by terrorists and he has to look after his family.

Justice Mukta Gupta dismissed his petition, saying in view of the facts and particularly the fact that there is very bleak chance of the petitioner being able to come back to India, in view of the prevailing circumstances in Afghanistan, this court finds no ground to release the passport of the petitioner and permit him to leave the country without depositing the penalty of Rs 13 lakhs.

Initially, the man had approached the court of chief metropolitan magistrate which granted him permission on February 1, 2021, to go to Afghanistan but subject to certain conditions that was challenged by him in the sessions court. His revision petition was dismissed in June after which he approached the high court.

The man's counsel submitted that he was not in a position to submit the redemption fine of Rs 9 lakhs and Rs 13 lakhs as personal penalty and sought that he be permitted to deposit 20 per cent of the amount and be permitted to go to Afghanistan.

The counsel said as the man is not inclined to take the goods back, the redemption fine is not required to be deposited and only penalty has to be paid.

On a court's query that whether the man has challenged the Additional Commissioner of Customs' order in appeal, the counsel replied in negative.

The high court said in case no appeal has been filed challenging the order, it has attained finality and the man, who was found carrying medicines illegally, is required to pay the penalty of Rs 13 lakhs which is a penalty in personam (against a person).

Considering that the adjudication proceedings qua the petitioner have attained finality and the petitioner even does not wish to redeem the articles, is required to deposit the penalty amount, hence this court finds no error in the impugned judgement. Petition is dismissed, it said.
He said that IAF intends to procure 350 aircrafts over the next two decades including the current order of 83 Light Combat Aircraft

The IAF chief said the Tejas light combat aircraft project has instilled confidence in the aerospace industry in India and that it has huge potential to grow further. (Twitter)

New Delhi: With continued stand-off with China, Indian Air Force Chief R.K.S. Bhadauria on Wednesday urged India Inc to develop niche technologies as whatever "new surprises we can spring on adversary will be critical in a conflict." He said that IAF intends to procure 350 aircrafts over the next two decades including the current order of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (the Tejas) to energize the aerospace sector and that all efforts will be to procure from indigenous sources.

Looking at the northern neighbour, we have to have niche technologies, niche capabilities which must be built in-house by our own industry for reasons of security, Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria while addressing a conference on 'Energising Indian Aerospace Industry'. He said that it is a challenge we need to look at. "The industry side to rise to the challenge because this is what will give us maximum result," said the Air Force Chief. Whatever new surprises we can spring on the adversary in the next conflict that is what will be critical, he said.

He stressed on the need to make self-reliance as the most important pillar of national security.

The IAF chief said the Tejas light combat aircraft project has instilled confidence in the aerospace industry in India and that it has huge potential to grow further.
A bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud also dismissed another PIL, which demanded compensation for kin in each Covid death

The court further noted that at the present stage, it will be difficult to issue general directions, especially with regard to diversity of conditions and our directions should not infringe upon the administrative powers of the state governments. (PTI)

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Wednesday junked a PIL filed by Youth Bar Association of India for directions to the Centre for providing door-to-door Covid vaccination to all citizens, particularly the elderly, differently abled, people from weaker sections and those not capable of online registration.

A bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, also comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Hima Kohli, also dismissed another PIL, which demanded compensation for kin in each Covid death, treating it as medical negligence.

Rejecting the PIL, the court said, The vaccination programme is underway and this court is monitoring the progress under the suo motu cognizance. We have also formed a national task force on the same issue.

The court further noted that at the present stage, it will be difficult to issue general directions, especially with regard to diversity of conditions and our directions should not infringe upon the administrative powers of the state governments, including the door-to-door vaccination.

The top court advised the petitioner to better approach the Union Health Ministry with its suggestions that may be considered at an appropriate level.
Ayaan Shankta won the third place in the 8-14 age category for his project Conservation and Rehabilitation of Powai Lake

Washington: A 12-year-old environmental activist from Mumbai has been named as a 2021 International Young Eco-Hero in recognition of his efforts to solve tough environmental problems.

Ayaan Shankta won the third place in the 8-14 age category for his project Conservation and Rehabilitation of Powai Lake, according to a media release issued on Wednesday.

He is one of the 25 young environmental activists from across the globe honoured by the Action For Nature (AFN) as a 2021 International Young Eco-Hero, an award that recognizes eco-conscious youth aged 8 to 16 who are taking crucial steps to solve tough environmental problems.

"My mission is for the lake to regain its past glory as a clean and vibrant body of water," said Ayaan who lives near a lake that used to be a source of drinking water for Mumbai, but has become a dumping ground for garbage and sewage.

His project aims to raise awareness about pollution, clean up the lake, and protect its ecosystem. In addition to working with NGOs to raise awareness and organize clean-ups, Ayaan authored an action report on lake conditions and is currently working on a documentary about Powai Lake.

"Not only will this help in bringing about ecological balance in the thickly populated city of Mumbai, but it will also help to conserve endangered species," he said.

Kids like Ayaan have shown that the next generation of leaders is here, and they are refusing to wait to solve the world's most pressing environmental challenges, said Beryl Kay, president of Action For Nature, an international non-profit organization that encourages young people to nurture a love and respect for the Earth and to take personal action to improve the environment.

"The projects that these young people created will not only have real, positive impacts on their communities, they will also help solve global climate challenges and inspire others  no matter what age  to consider what they can do to help," he said.
The NIA has recorded statements of a few people running performance bars and restaurants

Mumbai: The National Investigation Agency in its 10,000-page chargesheet claimed that Sachin Waze had called some bar and hotel owners in December 2020, and demanded Rs 5 crore every month from all such establishments within the limits of all 12 zones of Mumbai police and in return he promised police will not conduct raids at their premises. However, due to pandemic the amount was reduced to Rs 1-3 lakh per establishment as per their business performance.

The NIA has recorded statements of a few people running performance bars and restaurants who have narrated how Sachin Waze demanded monthly payments from them. According to a witness statement, the premises of whoever refused to pay their share were raided by the police.

Mahesh Shetty, 46, who is into hotel business since 2003 has told the NIA in his statement that in mid-December 2020, he received a phone call from another hotelier, Uday Shetty, who told him to come to Mumbai police commissioner's office as API Sachin Waze wanted to speak to them about their business.

Mahesh said that when he reached CP's office along with Jaya Pujari and Sharad Shetty, both into the same business, Uday was already present there along with 10-11 more bar owners. All of them met Waze in his office. Waze first called ACP Patil of the social service branch to his office and then told the businessmen present there that the purpose of the meeting was to inform them that all bar owners across Mumbai will have to pay together Rs 5 crore monthly and police will not raid their premises.

According to Mahesh, since the amount was huge and they had already incurred heavy losses due to the Coronavirus-induced lockdown, they expressed inability to pay Rs 5 crore every month. Upon this Waze fixed Rs 1 lakh a month for small hotels and bars, Rs 2 lakh for big establishments and Rs 3 lakh for some of the owners whose earnings were not affected by the lockdown.

As per the statement, even at the end of the meeting Waze demanded Rs 50 lakh as "Goodluck" amount which again was bargained and fixed to Rs 40 lakh and this amount was paid in two installments.

The witness has further stated that after this meeting, Waze used to call him to get updates on the collection of money and whoever delayed the payment their premises were raided. He also said that in January 2021 Mahesh along with other witnesses Jaya and Sharad delivered Rs 80-86 lakh to Waze in the CP office compound.

This witness has further told the police that on March 3, he met Waze for the last time when he had gone there to get an orchestra licence for one of his friends. At that time, he saw Mansukh Hiran. According to Mahesh, they had to wait for a few hours, as Waze was busy with another meeting and Hiran was called in his chamber 8-10 times.

The NIA has recorded statements of other businessmen too who have been named by Mahesh.
Banerjee is busy fighting the Bhowanipore Assembly bypoll to become an MLA and continue as West Bengal chief minister

Kolkata: Trinamul Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah of renewing their pressure tactics to intimidate her party leaders through the investigative agencies while she is busy fighting the Bhowanipore Assembly bypoll to become an MLA and continue as West Bengal chief minister.

Kickstarting her campaign in Bhowanipore, Ms Banerjee said at a TMC workers meeting that the Enforcement Directorate (ED) had summoned her MP nephew Abhishek Banerjee to New Delhi again for questioning in the coal smuggling scam while the CBI also called her Cabinet colleague, Partha Chatterjee, for grilling in the chit fund scam.

She also pointed out two other Cabinet colleagues -- Firhad Hakim and Subrata Mukherjee  who, along with party MLA Madan Mitra, were sent summons through the Assembly for a court appearance in the Narada sting operation case after the ED chargesheeted them recently.

Wondering about the purpose behind the second ED notice to Mr Banerjee, the TMC supremo dared the ED to question him in Kolkata.

The BJP cannot fight me politically. It silenced the Congress by intimidation through agencies. The same thing had happened to Sharad Pawar and Mulayam Singh Yadav. What the BJP is doing here is to harm me. As soon as the election was declared, the agencies also started dancing. But I do not blame its officers because they admit the pressure on them. Who is putting the pressure on them? It is Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. They are doing whatever they wish, the CM alleged.

She then added: With the declaration of the polls, Abhishek and Partha. Before them was the turn of Subrata and Bobby (the nickname of Firhad Hakim). If there is any case against Abhishek, it can be pursued legally. I have no problem. But when there is neither any case nor any evidence, why would you have to prove yourself a thief?

The CM went on to argue: If there is no intention, how can Abhishek be summoned to Delhi again after questioning for nine hours? Why was the case shifted to Delhi from Kolkata? What is the secret political motive behind this? If the ED has the guts, it can send summons to its Kolkata office. Our party leaders will appear there. In the Narada case, the names of Subrata and Bobby are there. But the name of the real culprit  who was caught taking the money  is not there."

Referring to Mr Shah, Ms Banerjee added: There is a second man who is giving instructions to the agencies for making arrests and using Pegasus. on others.
Its an embarrassment that the finance ministry would like to put behind it at the earliest

The biggest challenge for Mr Mohapatra is to resolve the issues with the new income tax portal that has been facing continued glitches more than two months after it was launched with much fanfare. (Twitter)

The 1985-batch IRS officer Jagannath Mohapatra has little time to settle into his seat after finally being confirmed as chairman of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), three months after the extended tenure of his predecessor P.C. Mody ended. The biggest challenge for Mr Mohapatra is to resolve the issues with the new income tax portal that has been facing continued glitches more than two months after it was launched with much fanfare. Its an embarrassment that the finance ministry would like to put behind it at the earliest. With the last date for filing I-T returns approaching fast, there is little time to lose.

Apparently, Mr Mohapatras confirmation as chairman was pretty much along expected lines. He did not face a lot of competition. His only rival was his batchmate Ms Anuja Sarangi who is currently member, administration, at CBDT, but he had a clear edge.

Some have pointed out a curious detail that is missing in Mr Mohapatras appointment letter issued by the department of personnel and training (DoPT). By not defining the duration of his term, observers say that the government has indicated that Mr Mohapatra may serve well beyond his retirement due in April next year. The precedent was set when his predecessors Mr Mody and Sushil Chandra were retained as chairmen after their retirement on contract

Haryana CM Khattar has his way

The tussle between Haryana chief minister Manohar Khattar and his home minister Anil Vij is also being played out in the state bureaucracy. They have often clashed over policy as well as transfers and appointments of officers to key positions in the government. In the latest round of jousting, Mr Khattar has overruled Mr Vij and ordered the appointment of IPS officer Kala Ramchandran as principal secretary of transport, a cadre post held by the IAS. Interestingly, this is in addition to being additional director general for crimes against women.

So, once again, the simmering IAS-IPS rivalry has been forced into the open. Mr Vij, sources have told DKB, was opposed to appointing an IPS officer on a cadre post designated for IAS officers and had cited IAS cadre rules that required the state government to take prior approval of the Central government. Curiously, Mr Khattar also ignored the advice of chief secretary Vijai Vardhan who too reportedly objected to naming non-cadre officers to cadre posts of the IAS.

Mr Khattar is, however, used to having his way. He has earlier appointed nine IPS, IFoS and IRS officers to posts reserved for the IAS, which prodded the Centre to demand an explanation from the Haryana government. No one knows what became of that!

Kerala babus are overstretched

The situation couldnt be more ill-timed. Kerala is not just battling Covid but also an acute shortage of IAS officers, especially in the secretary rank, leaving chief secretary V.P. Joy with an overstretched and stressed team just when he needs all hands on board.

Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan has admitted that the government is functioning with only 62 per cent of the allotted strength of IAS officers and 52 per cent of the allotted strength of IPS officers. The situation is no better in the Indian Forest Service (IFoS) with only 62 per cent of the allotted 107 posts occupied.

While there are several factors for the situation, including the natural increase in the number of posts over the years, informed sources have told DKB that the biggest reason is the sheer number of IAS officers who chose to leave on deputation to the Centre or their home state on inter-cadre deputation.

Apparently, 22 IAS officers are currently on Central deputation while two are serving in their home state. Similarly, 23 IPS officers are on Central deputation while one is on inter-cadre deputation in his home state.

Kerala now has a mere 10 secretary-rank officers and 12 principal secretaries, who together are holding multiple portfolios. To make up for the deficit, the state government had, earlier this year, appointed additional and joint secretary rank officers to secretary-rank posts, but surely more can be done.

Share a babu experience! Follow dilipthecherian@Twitter.com. Lets multiply the effect.
Because loneliness is not a disease, it is not a priority for the policy folks

Britain has a minister for loneliness. So does Japan. But loneliness is not just a First World problem. Nor confined to the elderly. It is now a stark reality even in a country like India with a predominantly young population. The Covid-19 pandemic has just made things worse.

What Covid-19 did was to freeze our lives. A year and a half later, it is becoming glaringly obvious that the gradual reopening of society and the economy is not going to make things easier automatically. Enforced social isolation has aggravated the problem of loneliness, across all age groups. What is truly worrying is that despite the high decibel talk about mental health, loneliness, per se, and its impact on health and well-being, still dont get much public or policy attention.

Loneliness was on the rise even before the pandemic. Social isolation and loneliness are widespread, with some countries reporting that up to one in three older people feel lonely, the World Health Organisation says. There is a lot of research showing the serious impact of social isolation and loneliness on older peoples physical and mental health, quality of life as well as longevity.

While most studies reporting the burden of loneliness were conducted in industrialised nations where aging and many socioeconomic stressors are affecting social networks, similar problems are emerging in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs) like India, notes a 2020 study titled Prevalence and correlates of loneliness in India: A systematic review by Mahbub Hossain, Neetu Purohit, Nusrat Khan, E. Lisako J. McKyer, Ping Ma, Sudip Bhattacharya and Priyanka Pawar.

The researchers note that despite a high burden of loneliness across the nation, there is a lack of empirical evidence on the prevalence or other quantitative measures of the severity of loneliness in India. They stress that its critical to understand how different sociodemographic factors, socio-cultural norms and co-morbidities are associated with loneliness to inform further research and interventions to address the same.

Why is loneliness not on the policy table in India?

One key reason is that loneliness is a subjective experience. This makes it hard to identify.

Loneliness is a state of the mind. It can exist even if one lives in crowded spaces. It is a marker of a lack of social connect. Even before the onset of the pandemic, many elderly people in the country experienced loneliness. What is new is that more young people have experienced it, because of the restrictions on mobility... says Dr Soumitra Pathare, director of the Centre for Mental Health Law & Policy in Pune.

The other reason is stigma.

Sonali Vaid, a Harvard-educated public health expert, says many young people are reluctant to admit to loneliness. They would much rather say they are bored. Many also dont wish to acknowledge that virtual social networks dont necessarily make for emotional connections.

Many elderly people have withdrawn into a bubble after long stretches of complete social isolation, says Ms Vaid. Some have lost their appetites; others find it difficult to communicate, she points out.

Because loneliness is not a disease, it is not a priority for the policy folks.

For example, what really affected a lot of people was the closure of public spaces, like parks, during the second wave when there was a sharp spike in infections and deaths in many parts of India, Ms Vaid notes. If you are closing parks, where will ordinary elderly people go for a walk?

What happened as a result in many instances was counterproductive. Younger people climbed gates and hit playgrounds and parks. The elderly met in drawing rooms, and the infection spread.

Even now, hardly anyone talks about the importance of ventilation, of being outdoors, says Ms Vaid.

Vicky, a South Delhi hairdresser and an anguished parent, constantly worries about his moody and often listless four-year-old. The child has not been to any pre-school or had play time with other children. He stays indoors the entire day Once, a cousin dropped in, with his child. My son was thrilled. All through last year and till recently, he did not go to a park. Nowadays, I take him for a walk in the neighbourhood park, before leaving for work. He enjoys it, but most of his time is spent with adults.

Vicky did not think his son was enjoying online classes. He probably feels lonely. He stands in the balcony looking longingly at puppies down below.

Who are the worst-hit by the loneliness crisis?

What is worrying, says Dr Pathare, is that in a country like ours which suffers from an acute shortage of mental health professionals, those who are more vocal about their needs get attended. In the process, the real needy get pushed to the back of the queue, because the number of people who need counselling or mental healthcare have risen sharply. This is what I would call diversion of resources from those in real need to those who are less needy in a scarcity situation.

A medical doctor working in a government hospital in West Bengals North 24 Parganas district flags the severity of the social isolation and loneliness crisis for those living in abject poverty. Most elderly people who are coming to the hospital are in a serious condition because of the extreme delay in accessing treatment. This happened, he says, because their primary caregivers died of Covid-19. There was simply no one to bring them to the hospital. Many who visit government hospitals are also unable to articulate their feelings of extreme social isolation, loneliness and the sense of being abandoned.

How does one battle the hidden pandemic of loneliness?

Clearly, the starting point is to talk about it. Only then can it get on to the policy table. Loneliness cant be cured by medicines. Neither can there be top-down solutions. What will go a long way are social interventions. Dr Pathare talks about one community-led intervention his organisation is involved in. We are training young people - college students to become peer counsellors, support other young people by active listening, behavioural action, etc. This is mental health first aid. In Gujarat, we are training community volunteers in 500 villages as part of a programme called atmiyata. This is about teaching how to practice empathy. It involves four to five sessions.

India still largely depends on the family to take care of its elderly and its young. But there are new realities in the pandemic-battered world. What is needed is social care. And it has to be low-intensity, low-cost, scalable and sustainable, as Dr Pathare puts it.
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Graveside services for Teresa May Dickson, 60, of Flint, Texas, were held on Friday, September 10, 2021 at 2 p.m. at Rose Lawn Cemetery in Tyler with Rev. Kim Beckham officiating under the direction of Stewart Family Funeral Home. Teresa went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on S
According to the build-your-own tool , Chevrolet has deleted the L trim level in favor of the LS, RS, LT, and Premier. Priced from $24,395 and topping $34,495 excluding $995 for the destination charge, the Malibu has further deleted Shadow Gray Metallic and Black Cherry Metallic. These paint colors have been replaced by Mineral Gray Metallic as well as Dark Ash Metallic.LPO items that are not offered anymore include the fender hash mark, 19-inch black wheels, powered tablet holder, first aid kit, sport pedals, rear-window sunshades, illuminated door sill plates, and stainless-steel door sill plates. The list goes on with both weather protection packages, winter and summer floor mats pack, appearance package, and the cargo area organizer.For the 2022 model year, the biggest change is the electronic parking brake, which is a standard-issue feature across the lineup. RPO code QC7 aluminum wheels are now available on the LT trim level, and if the design looks familiar, thats because the RS used to get them as standard last year.Under the hood, the front-wheel-drive Malibu soldiers on with two engine choices. The LFV is a four-cylinder turbo with 1.5 liters of displacement and 160 horsepower on tap, which peaks at 184 pound-feet (250 Nm) of torque. Only a continuously variable transmission is offered with this plant, which is a little underwhelming for a vehicle that weighs at least 3,135 pounds (1,422 kilograms) before considering the driver and the occupants.The LTG, which is only available with a nine-speed automatic transmission, is the lump you want because 2.0 liters, 250 horsepower, and 260 pound-feet (353 Nm) of torque are far more like it. Customers who prize reliability and resale value more than anything else in this particular segment can always bid farewell to Chevrolet for the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
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Of the premium and luxury variety, of course. The SUV Battle channel on YouTube has decided to see if the 300 series has what it takes not just against its former self (the same J200 from the previous video makes another appearance), but also against very stiff competition And we mean that both literally and figuratively because Diyas (our host for the video embedded below) has been choosing among the worlds best. So, the 2022 Land Cruiser 300 has to prove its off-road mettle with help from its new 3.5-liter turbo V6 engine (415 ps/ 409 hp) and factory tires.First up the obstacle course comes a 2014 Y62 Nissan Patrol motivated by a 5.6-liter engine and 399 horsepower (405 ps), followed by the 2020 Land Cruiser 200 series with its obsolete 4.6-liter V8 and just 304 hp/309 ps. All timestamps are in place in the description, so its easy to follow the action.Still, its important to note that Toyotas LC 300 got double the chances to shine, as it was driven on the obstacle course twice, from the 5:28 and 17:43 marks. Then its time for the Land Rover duo to shine, followed by the 2021 Mercedes-G 63 and the outsider in the competition, a mighty 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor pickup truck Once the conclusions are in, its about right to find out who got the overall victory. But one important disclaimer before we find out who took the crown: Diyas decided to rule the G 63, Range Rover LWB, and Raptor out of the contest because of their (huge) price disadvantage.So, the third place went to the Land Cruiser 200, followed by the newer 300 series, and the Patrol tied for second place. Surprisingly or not, the Defender confidently took the victory in the end.
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As you already know since late June, the modern successor of the Renault 4 will be called 4Ever, while the Renault 5will stick to the number as its name designation. Both the Renault 4Ever and the 5 will use the CMF-B platform in its form for EVs, which is called CMF-. The latter is derived from the CMF-EV platform The original Renault 4 was an affordable model that had a production career of 33 years. Its modern successor will be a crossover called 4Ever, which will feature retro-modern styling. In other words, we expect to see an-Coupe-styled model with retro cues for the successor of the Renault 4.Renault plans to launch ten electric models by 2025, which is part of the company's goal to have ninety percent of European sales comprised of EVs by 2030. The French company wants to keep selling hybrids up to 2035 but has not specified when it will ditch models that only have combustion engines under their hoods.Both the reborn Renault 5 and the 4Ever will reach the market in 2024, the same year when Renault's CEO confirmed that Zoe will go out of production. That leaves the pair to become its replacement. As Autocar has learned, the 4Ever model will come at a higher price than its sibling.It does make sense for the French marque to price the 4Ever model at a higher price than its Renault 5 sibling, even though the former used to be an affordable car back in the day.Mind you, the R5 was not expensive either, but we already know that the hatchback will be more affordable than the Zoe, while the 4Ever will place its bets on its SUV-styled body to command a premium in price.
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Monza happens to be the track where Alfa Romeo won its first title in Formula 1 history on September 3, 1950, with Nino Farina behind the wheel of the Alfetta 158. In order to celebrate this bond, Alfa Romeo modified the livery on its cars, which now boasts a new logo with colors reflecting those of the Italian flag. Meanwhile, the upper part of the engine cover is now Quadrifoglio green, to better complement the red and white of the regular livery.The way the colors are drawn provides a horizontal outline to the Italian flag, which becomes the dominant theme of the livery.As previously stated, the team didnt just focus on the car but on the race suits as well, which also feature the 111-year logo on the upper part, providing a vertical outline on the drivers leg.Wearing these fresh new colors, an Alfa Romeo F1 showcar will visit the Museo Storico Alfa Romeo in Arese throughout the weekend, with visitors able to take part in a virtual experience that includes a livestream with the drivers from the garage at Monza.Speaking of their drivers, next years lineup will feature current Mercedes-Petronas man Valtteri Bottas , who signed a multi-year contract with Alfa Romeo earlier this week. Bottas departure cleared the way for Williams star George Russell to join Mercedes, as well as for the return of Alexander Albon, who signed for Williams.As for this season, Alfa Romeo Racing isnt doing too well in the Constructors Standings, having amassed just three points.
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One of them is Yandex , a tech giant thats currently considered the top Google alternative in Russia, as it offers a large suite of online services, including a search engine and maps.Yandex has been working on autonomous cars for quite some time, and this week, the company announced that after tests carried out in Russia, Israel, and even the United States, its ready to begin a public trial of its self-driving taxis.In other words, robotaxis are becoming a real thing in Russia thanks to Yandex, with the service to originally launch in a single Moscow district only for a limited number of registered customers.Yandex wants to take everything one at a time, so the company says its rolling out the robotaxi service in a limited area before it collects additional data and then expands it to more regions.Customers who want to book a robotaxi will be able to do so using the Yandex.Go mobile application.The reason for picking Yasenevo as the first location where the service will be available is the local appetite for taking a taxi in the region, with Yandex explaining many residents turn to this means of transportation more than in other Moscow districts.In the meantime, more tech companies are looking into plans to expand in the automotive industry. In addition to Apple, Huawei is also believed to be working on its very own, and Chinese firm Xiaomi has also confirmed a multi-billion investment whose purpose is the development of a zero-emission car Phone maker OPPO is also exploring an EV project, according to people familiar with the matter, and theres no doubt other companies are considering similar plans that could all gain more pace when Apple officially announces the Apple Car.
Mobileye partnered with mobility service provider SIXT to make that happen, with the latter being headquartered in Munich. The self-driving robotaxis will be part of SIXTs ride-hailing service and customers will be able to access the service through the Moovit or SIXT apps. Mobileye will provide the robotaxi fleet, while SIXT will maintain and operate it.Clients will be able to tell apart the regular ride-hailing cars from the autonomous ones by looking for the MoovitAV and SIXT branding on the vehicles.Earlier this year, Germany passed the first federal law in the world to allow autonomous driving in regular traffic, and Mobileyes vehicles are permitted to go up to more than 80 mph (130 kph), as stated by Jack Weast, vice-president of autonomous vehicle standards for Mobileye, interviewed by Reuters . There are of course some requirements to be met, with the vehicles only being allowed in the set areas and with a human remotely supervising the robotaxis.Mobileyes self-driving cars were produced by Chinese manufacturer NIO and there will initially be 50 autonomous vehicles deployed in Munich. The company hopes to grow that number by the end of 2022 and implement its technology all over Germany. Other European countries will follow during the next years.The autonomous vehicles are six-passenger cars equipped with 13 cameras, three long-range LiDARs, six short-range LiDARs, and six radars.Intels robotaxis are not the only ones being promoted these days by tech companies. Yandex , another giant that is Russias top alternative to Google, is also trying to get a slice of the pie. The company recently announced its intention to bring robotaxis to Moscow, even though it initially plans to begin its public trial in just a district and for a limited number of registered customers.
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In the 1950s, American industry was booming and within the automotive sector, manufacturers were stepping outside the box like never before. It was a period when engineers and designers were free to innovate, creating a wide range of groundbreaking vehicles.At General Motors, work resumed on researching the feasibility of gas turbine engines in automobiles, a project that was started as early as the 1940s.The idea of modifying an aircraft powerplant and stuffing it in a car wasnt new, with Fiat successfully creating the S76 Beast of Turin in 1910. However, using a jet engine was an entirely different venture that captivated the minds of many bright engineers of the era.One of them was Emmett Conklin, a legendary figure in GM history. He joined the company at a young age, in the 1920s, initially as a construction worker for the Milford Proving Ground, the worlds first dedicated automobile testing facility. After that, he swapped test vehicles' tires for a living, then became a test driver . An extremely intelligent person with a passion for engineering, Conklin often worked on the test vehicles he drove, repairing, and improving them. Management took notice and promoted him to test track supervisor and ultimately, he was chosen to work on the turbine research program that kicked off in the 1940s.After the Second World War ended and GM started pumping resources into the project once again, Conklin was chosen to oversee the development of Americas first fully functioning gas turbine car.Conceived strictly as an engineering and styling concept, the Firebird I was ready in 1953. Designed by Harley J. Earl, the man behind Project Opel which eventually became the Chevrolet Corvette , it looked more like a fighter jet than an actual car.Made entirely out of fiberglass-reinforced plastic, the bodywork (or rather a fuselage) inspired by a Douglas F4D Skyray fighter jet featured small delta wings, a tailfin decorated with the logo of the GMs air transport section (GMATS), and a bubble canopy that covered a single-seat cockpit.The nose of the vehicle housed a 35-gallon (132.5 liters) fuel tank and behind the tiny cockpit was a groundbreaking powerplant with an awesome name. Developed under the direction of Charles L. McCuen, the Whirlfire Turbo-Power was a two-part turbine engine that contained a gasifier connected via a flexible shaft to a secondary power unit.The gasifier which incorporated a compressor and a turbine mixed compressed air with fuel inside two combustion chambers. It produced hot gas that ran a second turbine inside the power unit, which was linked to the Firebirds rear axle through a two-speed planetary transmission.Output was rated at 370 hp (280) and the car could reach a theoretical top speed of 200 mph (322 kph). This required a capable braking system so engineers mounted 11-inch (28 cm) brake drums on the outside to help disperse heat more efficiently. Furthermore, split brake flaps were fitted on the edges of the wings that could be activated using switches on the steering wheel.The Firebird I was so intimidating that the only man deemed qualified to drive it during initial tests was none other than Emmett Conklin. Legend has it that he took it up to 100 mph (160 kph), but immediately after shifting into second gear the tires lost traction which almost resulted in a crash. He was quoted as saying Im too old for this ****! and eventually handed test driving duties to three-time Indy 500 winner and engineer Mauri Rose.Before testing commenced at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Charles L. McCuen also drove the prototype but ended up crashing and almost getting himself killed in the process. The car was repaired, and Rose eventually ran multiple tests but much to the experienced drivers frustration, GM banned further high-speed runs. Thus, the turbine-powered concept never got to reach its hypothetical top speed.One of the wildest concept cars ever created, the Firebird I XP-21 paved the way for three more gas turbine-powered GM prototypes released in the 1950s. Along with the Rover JET1 or Fiat Turbina , it was among the first cars to use this type of engine.It made its public debut at the 1954 Motorama, an auto show organized by GM from 1949 to 1961, and was used as a successful promotional vehicle for the company for years to come.It can now be admired at the GM Heritage Center in Sterling Heights, Michigan. A miniature version tops the Harley J. Earl Trophy, which is given to the winner of the Daytona 500 Courtesy of DtRockstar1, you can watch both the Firebird I and its second sibling in the YouTube video below. Unfortunately, it is being towed into place for the 2018 Eyes On Design Show, so you wont hear the engine roaring but its one of the best modern footage of the iconic concept car.
Normally, one such incident wouldnt even make headlines. After all, whats so special about a car gently kissing the car parked behind it? Its a daily occurrence in big and crowded cities, and its not even expensive; most of the time, you have to look really hard or know what to look for in order to see any damage.Things change if one of the cars involved is a Bugatti Divo . It happened recently outside of the Westin Paris  Vendome hotel in the French capital, and was filmed by supercar spotter Victor Jennes (@ledriviste on Instagram) and reposted by @supercarfails. Someone, presumably the owner of the Divo, tried to back it so as to clear the exit out of the spot, and accidentally kissed a Mercedes-Benz CLS The actual bump wasnt caught on camera, but everything else about it was, down to the reaction of two hotel employees, who came out to assist whoever was at the wheel of the Divo. One inspected the damage on the two vehicles, and the other made sure the Divo wouldnt also bump the Porsche parked in front of it.Again, such an incident wouldnt even register with either car enthusiasts or the media. But this Divo is one of 40 units made (the last production Divo was completed in July this year), and it comes with a price tag of at least $5.4 million dollars. Its a work of art and a technological wonder all in one, in the shape of a hypercar, so the smallest and least noticeable damage done to the carbon fiber body or the highly engineered parts will automatically translate in expensive repairs.This is the sound of money being thrown down the drain in a moment of inattention.
In March 2019, two companies were promising to sell Hispano Suiza cars. One of them was the Grup Peralada in Spain, and the other was in Switzerland, established by Erwin Leo Himmel. He was Volkswagens and Audis former head of design from 1990 up to 1999. The designer claimed to have valid trademarks for the brand in Spain, Germany, France, and Singapore.Thanks to Bristows LLP  a prestigious law firm involved with trademarks  I was able to clarify that Himmel actually has trademarks for the logo in the UK and for both the name and the logo in Germany, France, Austria, and Monaco.Two more people want the Hispano Suiza brand. Marta Pou Portus was involved with the project when she and Himmel had a relationship. When they broke up, she tried to keep the brand. Portus has the trademark for the name in Spain, Monaco, Japan, USA, China, Liechtenstein, and San Marino.The designer Gonzalo Ramirez worked with Himmel, and he also wants to own the brand, but he has no valid trademarks for the name or the logo, according to Bristows LLP.With these four parties disputing the legal right to present vehicles with the Spanish brand, it is possible one company owns the rights in one country, and others have them in other places. For the Grup Peralada to sell the Carmen anywhere, it must secure branding rights in markets worldwide.Himmels company seems to be still in place. The website for his version of Hispano Suiza is still online and presenting the Maguari  the V10 car based on the Audi R8 that he would sell as a Hispano Suiza. Both he and Ramirez said they did not believe the Carmen could be homologated in any market due to its taillights. None of these legal implications are included in the documentary.What it helps us to understand is how the brand got so fragmented in the first place due to the Spanish Civil War. Marc Birkigt was the engineering mind behind the technical excellence Hispano Suizas had. His move back to Switzerland explains how Safran got involved in this whole story.The French aircraft engine manufacturer has several Hispano Suiza patents, only two of them related to vehicles. It has apparently sided with Grup Peralada, but we cannot say that for sure. This automotive soap opera and its multiple twists surely deserve a documentary. Deutsche Welle may be interested in shooting a part 2, exploring all the legal mess the brand is involved in.
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Citizens of Utsunomiya City and Haga Town, Tochigi Prefecture, in Japan, will soon have the chance to experience the futuristic Cruise Origin - the vehicle developed by Honda , Cruise and General Motors exclusively for autonomous vehicle mobility services. The three companies announced their partnership at the beginning of 2021, based on agreements signed way back, in 2018.It looks like now is the time to start the testing program, prior to Honda actually launching its autonomous vehicle mobility service (MaaS) business in Japan, operated by a subsidiary called Honda Mobility Solutions.During the program, the Cruise(the first-generation Cruise autonomous vehicle) will be driven on public roads. The goal of the tests is to collect data regarding the traffic environment and specific regulation in Japan, so that the future AV can be adapted to these conditions. But, before the tests begin, Honda announced that a specialized vehicle for mapping would first be used to create a high-definition map.The mapping phase is set to start this September, with public road tests to be conducted in 2022. Both Honda and Cruise will be involved in the program, and the Japanese company will also set up a new test site within its facility in Tochigi Prefecture.The Cruise Origin is an autonomous vehicle definitely worth experiencing, because its like no other out there. With no steering wheel, pedals or mirrors, theres no question about this futuristic vehicles self-driving status. This innovative design is meant to provide a more spacious cabin, where passengers can feel much more comfortable during their commute or whenever they choose to go for a ride.
Overshadowed by the track-ready 427 Competition and Carroll's personal Super Snake, the Dragonsnake is a Cobra that many enthusiasts tend to ignore. Far from surprising given that they couldn't be driven on public roads, but it's a Cobra that deserves a lot more attention. Fortunately, one of the only five Dragonsnakes ever built has soldiered on for more than 50 years to tell its story.Meet CSX2427, the Cobra described as "the finest and most correct factory-built Dragonsnake in existence." It's one of only five Cobra Dragonsnakes put together by Carroll Shelby, but it's also the only Stage III customer car ever built. It's as unique as they get, just like the only surviving Super Snake.Carroll was no stranger to racing. Before he was drafted by Ford to develop the iconic GT40, he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans driving an Aston Martin DBR1. So while he envisioned the Cobra as a road-going competitor for the Chevrolet Corvette, he also wanted a track-capable version.He achieved his goal with the 427 Competition and the Daytona Coupe , but Carroll wanted to go beyond the closed circuit. So he developed two extra packages for the Cobra. One was called Slalom Snake and prepped the roadster for auto-cross events. The other one went by the name Dragonsnake and was essentially a drag package.The bundle was made available to Cobra owners, but Shelby also put together a handful of Dragonsnakes at the shop. Six of these cars were built, five fitted with the 289-cubic-inch (4.7-liter) V8 and one equipped with the larger, 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) mill. Of the five 289 racers, only one ended up in private hands.This specific car, chassis no. CSX2427 was ordered by Don Reimer of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The Cobra left the factory in a bright shade of yellow, a rather unusual color for a Shelby car. The finish was applied on Reimer's request, so the Cobra would match his Ford Thunderbird tow car.The Dragonsnake was raced extensively and successfully in 1965. The Cobra ran 12-second quarter-mile sprints regularly and beat many Corvettes to the trap. The Weber carburetor setup, the balanced front/rear weight distribution, and the lightweight construction made the Dragonsnake a fierce competitor, despite the somewhat small V8.Reimer's Cobra wasn't the most successful Dragonsnake. The factory-backed cars had access to better resources and scored far more notable wins. But the yellow, white-striped Dragonsnake became a crowd favorite at local tracks in and around Pennsylvania, especially when it showed up to race against the Corvettes.Parked after its intense 1965 season, the Dragonsnake was eventually sold off. The CSX2427 bounced around to several owners before it was purchased by Steven Juliano, who restored it to its original specification. Using original and new-old-stock parts, Juliano returned the yellow Dragonsnake to the state it was when it left the Shelby factory in the 1960s.Now, more than a decade since it was restored to its original glory, CSX2427 proudly stands as the finest and most correct Dragonsnake in existence. It was featured by Ford during the 50th Anniversary Cobra celebration at the Monterey Motorsports Reunion and won several awards.57 years old as of 2021, CSX2427 is not only the finest Dragonsnake in existence but also one of the most authentic original Cobras ever built. And it is now ready to find a new owner, having been listed by Mecum Auctions as the main attraction for its Kissimmee 2022 event, scheduled in January.The dragster will probably change hands for millions of dollars, but the important thing here is that it's finally out of storage to tell the story of the tremendous yet ignored Cobra Dragonsnake.
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 Stellantis Mexico (@StellantisMX) September 8, 2021

Teased in camouflage by Stellantis Mexico, the yet-unnamed crossover is very close to series production according to the local division. Said to usher in a new era for the brand, the newcomer raises a couple of question marks.Firstly, what kind of platform is hiding underneath the bodyshell? And secondly, whats up with the design of the D-pillar area? Both questions can be answered by GAC Fiat Chrysler, a joint venture between Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Guangzhou Automobile , a huge automaker from China.In other words, the Dodgebefore your eyes can be described as a badge-engineered Trumpchi GS4 Plus. Previously known as the Trumpchi GS5 until 2021 when the second-generation model was facelifted in the Peoples Republic of China, this particular crossover is offered with a six-speed automatic transmission coupled to a 2.0-liter gasoline turbo engine.Revealed at the Shanghai Auto Show earlier this year, the crossover in question develops 185(248 horsepower) and 390 Nm (288 pound-feet) of torque as per Guangzhou Automobile. A 1.5-liter turbo serves as the base plant. Save for the fugly grille up front, its a fine choice in the fiercely competitive and very crowded C-segment.4,710 millimeters (185.4 inches) long, the GS4 Plus is rocking a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with iOS smartphones by means of Apple CarPlay. Priced from 126,800 to 149,800 yuan (make that $19,645 and $23,210) depending on the configuration, the GS4 Plus with Dodge badges isnt all that strange for Mexico because its not an isolated case. The Mexico-spec Dodge Attitude, for example, is a Mitsubishi Mirage G4 subcompact sedan in every respect.Las primeras imagenes con camuflaje, del futuro SUV de @DodgeMX
From autonomous tug boats and research platforms to uncrewed military ships , vessels that can be remotely controlled look like theyre slowly, but surely, making their way as reliable alternatives for standard models. Japan is the place where a highly advanced fleet operation center (FOC), specifically designed for managing crewless ships, will open the way for future autonomous ship operations. No less than 30 Japanese companies from various fields, including maritime transport and technology, have joined forces to establish a unique project.Called DFFAS (Designing the Future of Full Autonomous Ship), this ambitious project aims to create a fully operable fleet of autonomous vessels. The first major step was completing this new FOC. Located in Makuhari, Chiba City, this control center is part of a more complex system that will be in charge of everything required for the operation of autonomous ships.Apart from the state-of-the-art technology, the center will also include operators who will collect information from the autonomous ships, and connect it to the data available on shore. In addition to monitoring and analyzing the operational status of crewless ships, the FOC operators will also be able to navigate them remotely, in case of emergency.The next step for the DFFAS project is to conduct the first demonstration, in February 2022. A 749 GT container vessel equipped with the projects autonomous system will travel from Tokyo Bay to Ise Bay. The objective is to simulate the operation of an autonomous ship in congested waters, using a domestic vessel.According to the NYK Line Group, one of the projects initiators, autonomous ships could become the solution for crew shortages and, therefore, help support coastal shipping businesses. The DFFASs ultimate goal is to begin operating local crewless vessels by 2025. The Joint Technological Development Program for the Demonstration of Unmanned Ships, under the administration of the Nippon Foundation, is sponsoring DFFAS.
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Qatar played host Tuesday to both Secretary of State Tony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, in a sign of how the Gulf country's role in the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan has strengthened its standing in Washington.

Why it matters: Qatar became a central partner for the U.S. in the region as it mediated between the U.S. and the Taliban, and Doha was the largest hub of the massive U.S. evacuation effort.

Around 60,000 people were evacuated via Qatar, which even provided several planes for the mission. After the evacuation, the U.S. relocated its diplomatic mission from Kabul to Doha.

That came as Qatar was also rebuilding trust with its rivals for regional influence, the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

Blinken said at a press conference in Doha that Qatar's help would be remembered for "a long, long time" and that the strengthened U.S.-Qatar relationship would pay dividends across "so many key areas in the months and years ahead."

Other Gulf countries  including the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain  also offered the U.S. the use of their territory to transfer and process evacuees, and Blinken has called his counterparts in those countries to thank them.

One country that didn't play any notable role was Saudi Arabia, which has cool relations with the Biden administration.

Driving the news: A senior State Department official told me Blinken's discussions in Qatar were dominated by Afghanistan, but also covered the situation in the Gaza Strip.
Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani issued a statement Wednesday apologizing to Afghans for fleeing Kabul on the day the Taliban entered the capital city, calling it "the most difficult decision" of his life.

Why it matters: Ghani's decision to flee Kabul and seek asylum in the United Arab Emirates on Aug. 15 precipitated the collapse of the Afghan government.

In a White House address the day after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan, President Biden criticized Ghani and the Afghan security forces for choosing not to "fight for their country."

Ghani was also accused of stealing millions of dollars worth of public money as he fled Kabul, allegations he has vigorously denied. He said Wednesday that he and his top aides would submit to an independent investigation or audit to prove his innocence.

The big picture: Ghani's statement  his most extensive public remarks since the fall of Kabul  comes one day after the Taliban announced the formation of an acting government that features top loyalists and several internationally sanctioned terrorists.

What they're saying: "I owe the Afghan people an explanation for leaving Kabul abruptly on August 15th after Taliban unexpectedly entered the city. I left at the urging of the palace security who advised me that to remain risked setting off the same horrific street-to-street fighting the city had suffered during the Civil War of the 1990s," Ghani said.

"Leaving Kabul was the most difficult decision of my life, but I believed it was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her 6 million citizens," he added.

"Now is not the moment for a long assessment of the events leading up to my departure  I will address them in detail in the near future. But I must now address baseless allegations that as I left Kabul I took with my millions of dollars belonging to the Afghan people. These charges are completely and categorically false."

"Corruption is a plague that has crippled our country for decades and fighting corruption has been a central focus of my efforts as president. I inherited a monster that could not easily or quickly be defeated."

The bottom line: "It is with deep and profound regret that my own chapter ended in similar tragedy to my predecessors  without ensuring stability and prosperity. I apologize to the Afghan people that I could not make it end differently," Ghani concluded. "My commitment to the Afghan people has never wavered and will guide me for the rest of my life."
The main part of the weeklong Zapad-2021 (West-2021) exercises will start on Friday at more than a dozen training grounds in the two states. According to the Russian Defense Ministry, they will involve up to 200,000 military personnel, apparently making them the biggest war games in Europe in decades.

The bulk of the participating troops are from Russia and Belarus. The others were sent by three other members of the Russian-led Collective Security Treaty Organization -- Armenia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan -- as well as India and Mongolia.

Photographs released by Armenias Defense Ministry showed around 80 Armenian soldiers marching during the opening ceremony held at the Russian militarys Mulino training center about 360 kilometers east of Moscow.

The ministry said late last week that its troops will take part in the drills in line with a Russian-Armenian plan of joint military activities in 2021. It did not specify their number.

Armenia moved to deepen its already close military ties with Russia shortly after the six-week war in Nagorno-Karabakh stopped by a Russian-brokered ceasefire last November.

Defense Minister Arshak Karapetian visited Russia for at least three times this summer. His Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu reportedly assured him on August 11 that Moscow will continue to help Armenia reform and modernize its armed forces.

The Zapad-2021 drills are based on a scenario where Russia and Belarus are under attack. Russian Deputy Defense Minister Nikolai Pankov insisted on Thursday that they are purely defensive in nature.

Tensions have run high in recent months on Belaruss borders with NATO members Lithuania, Latvia and Poland. Western officials say Minsk has been pushing illegal migrants into those countries to put pressure on the European Union in response to EU sanctions imposed on authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenkos regime.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg urged Russia last week to be open about the upcoming drills and the troop numbers involved. A NATO spokeswoman said, for her part, that the U.S.-led alliance was not invited to observe them in breach of an international agreement governing military exercises in Europe.
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) - A judge in Idaho ruled that the former Arizona mother accused of killing her two kids and conspiring to kill two other people is still not competent to stand trial. Since June, Lori Vallow has been in restorative treatment after a licensed clinical psychologist deemed her incompetent to understand the charges against her. She was initially given 90 days of treatment, but after a doctor submitted a progress report to the court, the judge has extended her time in the state hospital for another 180 days.

"The judge is waiting to give more time to the doctors to look at Lori Vallow, to see whether or not she is competent, and the more time the doctors have, the more time to evaluate her and do a report in the future," said defense attorney Benjamin Taylor, who is not affiliated with the case. "Doctors are trained to look at the defendant, do various tests to see whether or not they are faking it--are they really not competent? And they're not mentally competent to stand trial?" The judge says her stay at the state hospital can be shortened if they receive another progress report that Lori has been mentally restored.

Chad Daybell, Lori's husband, also appeared in court next to his attorney on Wednesday. His attorney has asked for an extension due to not receiving certain documents yet. Daybell and his attorney are also asking for severance. "It's normal for a defense attorney to try to separate their client away from the bigger, bad actor," Taylor said.

Lori Vallow still incompetent, Chad Daybell's family think he's being framed The Daybells told CBS their dad used to be a gravedigger and the shallowness of each grave seems like a rookie mistake that Chad wouldn't make.

Last year, the judge ordered Lori and Chad to be codefendants. The newlyweds are facing charges for the deaths of Lori's two kids, JJ and Tylee, Chad's previous wife, Tammy Daybell, and Lori's previous husband, Charles Vallow.

"If the judge feels you're both in the same pot, you both are doing the same acts, then a lot of times a judge will keep both codefendants together. As a defense attorney, you have to show a big reason why your client should be separated and not involved with the other codefendant," Taylor explained. "If the two codefendants have totally separate defenses or they're pointing the finger at each other saying, 'no the other person did it,' and the other defendant is pointing their finger saying, 'no they did it,' that's when a judge will separate them."

Lori's case is stayed, or on pause, until her competency is restored. Chad's trial was set to begin two months from now. However, it will now be rescheduled after a change of venue hearing that will take place next month.
It was just a few days ago - members of the Arizona Humane Society took an overnight trip to El Paso Texas - to gather-up 40 furry friends - that were evacuated from an SPCA shelter in New Orleans.
You can reach Ishani Desai at 661-395-7417. You can also follow her at @idesai98 on Twitter.
Most of you probably know that classes have resumed across the country for children of all ages. And this, of course, means back to school shopping. Hence the reason I found myself in a car with my family, speeding down the Interstate on our way to one of the local outlet malls. It was time 
Bluefield, WV (24701)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with overcast skies overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Bluefield, WV (24701)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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Michael Constantine, who played Gus, the father of Nia Vardalos Toula Portokalos in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, by far the highest-grossing romantic comedy of all time, died on Aug. 31. He was 94.

Constantines agent confirmed the news of his death to Variety. He died of natural causes.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding scored a domestic gross of $241 million in 2002; No. 2 on the list is What Women Want with $183 million. The film drew a SAG Awards nomination for outstanding performance by the cast of a theatrical motion picture.

As Roger Ebert recounted, Constantines Gus specializes in finding the Greek root for any word (even kimono), and delivers a toast in which he explains that Miller goes back to the Greek word for apple, and Portokalos is based on the Greek word for oranges, and so, he concludes triumphantly, In the end, were all fruits. 

Variety said: Constantine fares best as a patriarch whose staunch traditionalism is at once dim-bulb and big-hearted.

Constantine reprised his role in a short-lived CBS series that also starred Vardalos and Lainie Kazan in 2003, My Big Fat Greek Life, and the 2016 film sequel, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, in which the wedding was that of Gus and Kazans Maria after a procedural defect in their original nuptials in Greece is uncovered, necessitating another ceremony.

In a review of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2, the Los Angeles Times said, Constantine delivers an appealing mixture of bravado and bumbling as Gus, a man claiming cultural superiority who doesnt know how to use a computer mouse. According to Gus, the Greeks invented everything, even Italy, and now hes on an Internet quest to confirm that he is a direct descendant of Alexander the Great. In a sequence that will feel familiar to anyone who has ever introduced an older relative to Google, this quest will take a village.

Before the Big Fat Greek Wedding phenomenon, Constantine was best known as a television actor who played principal Seymour Kaufman on James L. Brooks then-hip-for-TV high school comedy Room 222, which ran on ABC from 1969-74 and also starred Lloyd Haynes as teacher Pete Dixon; Denise Nicholas as school counselor Liz McIntyre; and Karen Valentine as student teacher Alice Johnson.

For his work on Room 222, Constantine was twice Emmy nominated, in 1970 and 1971, winning the first time.

He recurred as the Sorcerer on Electra Woman and Dyna Girl in 1976  the same year he got his own show, a forerunner of Night Court called Sirotas Court, an the NBC comedy in which he starred as Judge Matthew Sirota. It ran for 13 episodes.

Also in 1976 Constantine played one of many German Jews seeking to flee the Nazis in the feature Voyage of the Damned (1976), starring Faye Dunaway, Oskar Werner and Lee Grant. He played the father of Kristy McNichols character in the noted TV movie Summer of My German Soldier (1978) and had a small part in Roots: The Next Generations (1979). He guested on a wide variety of TV series for decades, recurring on Remington Steele as an idiosyncratic businessman  and appearing memorably in a 1994 episode of Law & Order. Constantine played the father of Patrick Dempseys Sonny Wisecarver, a 15-year-old who elopes with a 21-year-old played by Talia Balsam, in the 1987 romantic comedy In the Mood. The actor had two movie gigs in 1996, playing the judge in courtroom thriller The Juror, starring Demi Moore and Alec Baldwin, and portraying the man who places a curse on the hit-and-run driver who killed his daughter in Stephen Kings Thinner. Then My Big Fat Greek Wedding hit in 2002.

Constantine Joanides was born in Reading, Penn.

He began his career on the New York stage (though the actor made his small-screen debut in the very early days of the medium with a single appearance on NBCs The Big Story in 1949). In 1955 he served as understudy to Paul Muni, who played Henry Drummond in the original Broadway production of Inherit the Wind. Constantines acting mentors also included Howard Da Silva.

He appeared on Broadway in Compulsion, a play based on the Leopold and Loeb case starring Dean Stockwell and Roddy McDowall, in 1957-58, and in 1959 he appeared in the original Broadway production of The Miracle Worker as Mr. Anagnos, the headmaster of the Perkins Institute for the Blind, the school where Anne Bancrofts Annie Sullivan trained. He subsequently appeared in The Egg and Arturo Ui, but both had extremely brief runs in 1962 and 1963, respectively.

While appearing on Broadway and on other stages, he made ends meet by working as a night watchman and a barker in a shooting gallery.

Constantine made his film debut in Howard W. Kochs death row picture The Last Mile, starring Mickey Rooney. Despite the familiarity of the material, the New York Times raved about the movie, declaring: The acting, almost from top to bottom  we repeat, almost  is fine. As Mr. Rooneys fellow inmates, Clifford David, Harry Millard, John McCurry, Ford Rainey, John Seven, Michael Constantine, John Vari and George Marcy are entirely credible.

Constantine had a memorable supporting role as Big John in Robert Rossens classic 1961 pool picture The Hustler, starring Paul Newman.

During the 1960s the actor guested on Dr. Kildare, The Untouchables, The Twilight Zone, Perry Mason, Hogans Heroes, My Favorite Martian, The Dick Van Dyke Show, to name but a few. He recurred on NBCs 1966-67 comedy Hey, Landlord as John Jack Ellenhorn.

On the big screen he appeared in the Delbert Mann-directed, Antarctic-set comedy Quick Before It Melts (1964), starring George Maharis and Robert Morse; the 1966 Beau Geste remake; George Roy Hills Hawaii, starring Julie Andrews and Max von Sydow; 1968s notorious Skidoo, Otto Premingers monumental misfire of a counterculture comedy, in the words of the Austin Chronicle; travelogue comedy If Its Tuesday, This Must Be Belgium (1969), in which he played a former G.I. in Italy searching for a long-lost love; the misbegotten Justine (1969); and Dont Drink the Water, an adaptation of Woody Allens play in which Constantine played Krojack, head of the Vulgarian secret police.

While appearing on Room 222, Constantine maintained a busy schedule, continuing to guest on other shows.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 was his final credit.

Vardalos paid tribute to her on-screen father on Twitter, writing: Michael Constantine, the dad to our cast-family, a gift to the written word, and always a friend. Acting with him came with a rush of love and fun. I will treasure this man who brought Gus to life. He gave us so much laughter and deserves a rest now. We love you Michael.
You would have to shuffle a lot of movie ideas to come up with one that pairs a card sharp with the horrors of Abu Ghraib.

But writer-director Paul Schrader has for some time known his cards, playing variations of the same hand over and over again. The protagonist of his The Card Counter  William Tell (Oscar Isaac)  is the latest in a long line of Schraders tortured, self-hating, deeply habitual, solitary men going back to Travis Bickle in Taxi Driver.

This repeating figure of Schrader's  one also seen in his previous film, First Reformed, and in another he wrote for Martin Scorsese, Bringing Out the Dead  has never seemed like a rerun. Its more like a spiritual condition that Schrader, raised a Calvinist, cant rid himself of. In making film after film suffused with remorse and isolation, Schraders project takes on autobiographical, ritualistic dimensions.

I like the routine. I like the regime.

So narrates Tell in the opening moments of The Card Counter, which arrives in theaters Friday. Hes in prison, quite contentedly. There he reads Aurelius, studies card playing and writes in a journal. He has grown accustomed to confinement.

And once released, his life is hardly any less restricted. He travels to casinos, speaking little and using his analytic know-how to reliably win at blackjack  but never too much to arise suspicion. In his motel rooms he covers everything in sheets  the lamp, chairs, tables  carefully tying them down with twine.

Those knots feel like an echo of Schrader's First Reformed, with Ethan Hawke as a tormented priest. That movie concluded, memorably, with Rev. Toller wrapping barbed wire around himself. In The Card Counter, nothing gruesome seems near the film's lifeless interiors. But the film's intense quietude and its central character's heavy gravity radiate something ominous. Such a regimented, restrained life is inevitably going to be released. The taut strings will break. Violence (surely) and redemption (maybe) will follow.

Tell is a heightened kind of character  a deadpan noir archetype who mostly expresses himself through the film's narration. But for a movie with moody monologues, it's oddly unstylized in its drab look. Sometimes, The Card Counter risks mistaking airlessness for minimalism.

Tell's rhythms are disrupted when he encounters a young man named Cirk (Tye Sheridan, a more natural presence), the son of a soldier who served years before with Tell. They meet at a presentation Tell wanders into by John Gordo (Willem Dafoe), a retired major now instructing police departments on interrogation techniques. Tell, we learn, served under Gordo at Abu Ghraib. Disorienting, horrifying flashbacks follow. And the cool veneer of The Card Counter snaps open with an unspeakable past.

Cirk wants revenge and tries to draw Tell into his scheme. Tell can no longer deny to himself his hidden demons. Recalling his proficiency at carrying out Gordo's directions he writes: I had it in me. I had the right stuff. Believing he can steer Cirk away from his bound-to-fail plot to torture and kill Gordo, Tell takes him under his wing, and signs up with a gambling backer, La Linda (Tiffany Haddish), to raise a nest egg for Cirk. She places him into poker tournaments, taking a cut of the winnings, where Tell faces off frequently with a U-S-A-chanting poker star and a walking metaphor for blind patriotism.

There is a lot that's a little awkward about how all this works. The dialogue is sometimes clunky. Haddish, gamely trying her most dramatic role, doesn't quite fit in. But, then again, many of the parts of The Card Counter don't quite fit. Toggling between Texas Hold 'Em and Iraq War nightmares makes for a head-spinning collision.

But I think the incongruities of The Card Counter also give it its power. Schrader's film is so self-evidently the impassioned work of a singularly feverish mind that its flaws add to its humanity. The atrocities and shame of Abu Ghraib should come back as a piercing interruption. In Isaac's masterful performance, the deep-seated guilt of the Schrader protagonist takes on national proportions. Some elements may be out of balance in The Card Counter, but its morality isn't.

The Card Counter, a Focus Features release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America for some disturbing violence, graphic nudity, language and brief sexuality. Running time: 112 minutes. Three stars out of four.

___

Follow AP Film Writer Jake Coyle on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/jakecoyleAP
courtesy of Orange County Sheriff's Office

A crew of 16 Jasper Newton Electric Cooperative (JNEC) employees left on Tuesday morning to begin the work to restore more than 40,000 powerless meters serviced by the Washington-St. Tammany Electric Cooperative (WSTEC). The JNEC crew left with bucket trucks, other necessary equipment and supplies to make repairs and get the power back on. The JNEC crew will be working 12 to 16 hour days for weeks to accomplish their mission to restore power to members of a fellow cooperative. Many of these rural electric cooperatives have been in existence since the 1930s and 40s. They depend upon one another when it comes to natural disasters and when the call goes out from one cooperative others respond and lend a helping hand.

When you flip the switch, you want the light to come on or adjusting the thermostat you want it to get cooler, but when all the power lines are down then even the simplest of things is a problem. Living in a rural area we are familiar with our electric cooperative and how they keep the lights on for us. In Jasper and Newton Counties we depend on the JNEC and the men and women that keep the power on. But there is so much more to a cooperative like JNEC, and it is what makes them special.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  A former Army captain has pleaded guilty to charges that he helped his wifes business with military contracts, federal authorities said.

The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina said in a news release that John Raymond Meier, 33, who served at Fort Bragg, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to performing official acts affecting a personal financial interest. Meier faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
At a time when several school districts are already suspending classes because of COVID-19 spread, it is more important than ever to do whatever we can to slow the transmission of the virus among students.

However, we know it is not just about protecting them but also protecting their parents, teachers and administrators.

That is why several local health leaders joined forces on Aug. 27 to host a back-to-school COVID-19 vaccine clinic.

More than 125 of our neighbors were vaccinated during the all-day event.

Children between the ages of 12 to 17 received the Pfizer vaccine and those 18 and over received the Moderna vaccine.

The doses were provided by Christus Jasper Memorial and administered by personnel from the Health District.

The Jasper Hospital District played a key role in bringing the community partners together for this important public health event.

The data is clear  COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective in reducing the risk of infection and spreading the virus to others.

In addition, the vast majority of people who are currently hospitalized with COVID-19 are unvaccinated.

We believe that vaccinating as many eligible people as possible will lessen the severity of illness and decrease the number of hospitalizations.

The Jasper Newton County Public Health District continues to provide ongoing free COVID-19 vaccine clinics for all members of our community.

Details are available on the districts website.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  Minnesota Senate Republicans have chosen Sen. Jeremy Miller, of Winona, to be the chamber's new majority leader to replace Paul Gazelka, who stepped down from his leadership post to run for governor.

The Republicans plus two independents elected Miller as their caucus leader at a meeting Wednesday night. Officially naming him majority leader will require a resolution the next time the Senate meets, which will likely be during a special session in the next few weeks if leaders can agree on a $250 million bonus package for frontline workers in the pandemic.

Miller was first elected to the Senate in 2010. He had been president of the chamber since 2019, a job that included presiding over floor sessions and trying to stay above the partisan fray. He told reporters Thursday that he's more of a behind-the-scenes kind of guy and made a pitch for bipartisan cooperation. He said he already has a very good relationship with Democratic House Speaker Melissa Hortman, of Brooklyn Park.

I have the opportunity to unite our caucus and at the same time work together with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, in both the House and the Senate, to get good things done for the people of the state of Minnesota," Miller said.

Democratic Gov. Tim Walz has said that he wont call a special session unless Senate Republicans agree not to fire his health commissioner, Jan Malcolm. Sen. Jim Abeler, of Anoka, last month said he was considering seeking her ouster over her handling of the pandemic. Miller was noncommittal about what position his caucus might take on her future.

Miller, a husband and father of three, is also chief financial officer for his family's scrap metal company. He's succeeding Gazelka, of East Gull Lake, who had been majority leader since the 2017 session and launched his gubernatorial campaign on Wednesday.

Senate Democrats plan to meet Monday to elect their own new leader. Sen. Susan Kent, of Woodbury, announced last week that she was stepping down as minority leader and wont seek reelection next year for family reasons.
As COVID cases continue to climb across the area, officials are considering a myriad of solutions  from an additional infusion center for monoclonal antibodies to building an entirely new Intensive Care Unit.

The regional infusion center would be located at 5550 Eastex Freeway in Beaumont and would serve residents from Hardin, Jefferson, Orange and Jasper counties  all of which this week voted in favor of the project. The center will be funded by money from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

We met with all the area hospitals about the potential for an infusion center, the main goal of which is to administer monoclonal antibodies to those individuals who test positive prior to the time they have acute episodes and become symptomatic and require hospitalizations, said Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick.

County Emergency Management Coordinator Mike White, who himself had the treatment, said it generally precludes people from being admitted to the hospital.

Its a series of four injections. It takes about a half an hour and then there is a 1-hour observation time, he said. I speak from experience. It worked fantastic. I was sick for about two days. I got my infusion. About a day later, I was out mowing the grass. I still tested positive for another week, but I had no symptoms. I felt cured.

This isnt the first time the counties have pooled their resources in an attempt to better treat the regions COVID-19-positive patients.

The counties in mid-March 2020 coordinated a coalition to provide COVID-19 screening and testing. They later leveraged the regions population and their coordination to bring more vaccine doses to the area. However, that effort was disbanded in early April as demand for the COVID-19 vaccine fell and the number of vaccinated people rose.

Related: SE Texas hospitals stretched by COVID-19 as officials look for more nurses

The counties have continued operating largely individually until this new effort.

White said the state on Tuesday morning approved the regions plans for the infusion center. Its now expected to take at least four days to get the center up-and-running.

After that, any person with a positive COVID test and a referral will be eligible for the free treatment at the new center.

There are two pathways for referral, explained Todd Senters, Assistant Vice President of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas. One is direct referral from that individuals primary care physician, where they will have the authority to write an order for the Regeneron to be administered. The second pathway is if the individual knows that they have a positive test, there will be a hotline established for them by the county for them to call. We will then secure an order on behalf of that patient for them to be treated.

Regardless of the pathway taken, the patient will be given a scheduled appointment time for treatment, which must be closely adhered to. When patients arrive, they will be escorted into the building and treated in a secure location to prevent contaminating others.

Because Regeneron is provided by the government, there is no charge that is going to be incurred by the patient, Senters said. We are prohibited even at the hospital for charging for that particular medicine for patients. The same would be true through the county entity as well.

Currently, the overtaxed hospitals can only administer the treatment to about 30 patients per day. The infusion center would aim to treat a minimum of 150 patients per day and likely prevent many people from being admitted into local hospitals.

Our focus is to bring down the COVID hospitalization rate, said White. Thats our biggest emergency right now.

Top hits: Get Beaumont Enterprise stories sent directly to your inbox

As of Tuesday, hospitals across the four counties had 243 COVID-19-positive patients  55 of whom are in the ICU. COVID-19 patients currently make up nearly 60% of people hospitalized in ICU beds across the county, according to data collected by the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council.

With hospitals overflowing from a mixture of mostly-unvaccinated COVID patients, in addition to people with routine medical concerns and other emergencies, medical directors are urgently trying to find more room  or make it if necessary.

I had a call with one of the hospitals on Sunday, Branick said. They had 25 ICU beds with 40 patients in the ICU and 39 of them on ventilators. I received pictures from physicians of patients stacked up in emergency department hallways waiting for assistance. I had to call Baptist on Sunday and Lori Upton, the executive director of SETRAC, to try to find a transfer for a patient in Lumberton. We were unable to find a bed anywhere short of going to Maryland, I think. Were definitely in a precarious situation. Its something that is happening all over Louisiana, New York and many other states as well.

To continue to address the crisis, Baptist Hospitals on Tuesday morning sought $5 million from Jefferson County to build an additional ICU to treat COVID patients.

While patients are receiving appropriate care, its not to the level that you or I would expect were we in the hospital, and so we can do something about that, said Justin Doss, CEO of Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas.

Baptist says the facility would be just under 19,000 square feet and hold an additional 16 beds for a total of 33 ICU beds that belong to Baptist.

However, the Jefferson County Commissioners Court did not approve the allocation of funds, nor did they say when they could discuss the issue again.

Every day that we wait is another day that we dont have ICU beds available for the county, Doss said.

rachel.kersey@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/ontheREKord
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  An estimated 200 foreigners, including Americans, left Afghanistan on a commercial flight out of Kabul on Thursday with the cooperation of the Taliban  the first such large-scale departure since U.S. forces completed their frantic withdrawal over a week ago.

The Qatar Airways flight to Doha marked a breakthrough in the bumpy coordination between the U.S. and Afghanistans new rulers. A dayslong standoff over charter planes at another airport has left hundreds of mostly Afghan people stranded, waiting for Taliban permission to leave.

A senior U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to talk to the media, said the Taliban's foreign minister and deputy prime minister helped facilitate the flight. Americans, U.S. green card holders and other nationalities, including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians, were aboard, the official said.

Qatari envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani said another 200 passengers will leave Afghanistan on Friday.

Ten U.S. citizens and 11 green-card holders made Thursdays flight, State Department spokesman Ned Price said. Americans organizing charter evacuation flights said they knew of more U.S. passport and green-card holders in Mazar-e-Sharif and elsewhere awaiting flights out.

The White House said before the flight that there were roughly 100 U.S. citizens left in Afghanistan. But several veterans groups have said that number is too low because many citizens never bothered to tell U.S. officials they were in the country. And they said the figure overlooks green-card-carrying permanent U.S. residents living in Afghanistan who want to leave.

Many thousands of Afghans remain desperate to get out, too, afraid of what Taliban rule might hold. The Taliban have repeatedly said foreigners and Afghans with proper travel documents could leave. But their assurances have been met with skepticism, and many Afghans have been unable to obtain certain paperwork.

U.S. lawmakers, veterans groups and others are pressing the Biden administration to ensure that former Afghan military interpreters and others who could be in danger of Taliban reprisals for working with the Americans are allowed to leave.

In the U.S., National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne said that Thursday's flight was the result of careful and hard diplomacy and engagement and that the Taliban have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort.

This is a positive first step, she said, adding that the U.S. will continue trying to extract Americans and Afghan allies who want to leave.

As Taliban authorities patrolled the tarmac, passengers presented their documents for inspection and dogs sniffed luggage laid out on the ground. Some veteran airport employees had returned to their jobs after fleeing during the harrowing chaos of the U.S.-led airlift.

Irfan Popalzai, 12, boarded the flight with his mother and five siblings. He said his family lives in Maryland.

I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited" to leave, he said.

The airport was extensively damaged in the frenzied final days of the U.S. airlift that evacuated over 100,000 people. But Qatari authorities announced that it had been repaired with the help of experts from Qatar and Turkey and was ready for the resumption of international airline flights.

I can clearly say that this is a historic day in the history of Afghanistan as Kabul airport is now operational, al-Qahtani said. He added: Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.

The flight was the first to take off from the Kabul airport since American forces left the country at the end of August. The accompanying scenes of chaos, including Afghans plunging to their deaths from the sides of military aircraft on takeoff and a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 U.S. service members, came to define the end of Americas two-decade war.

The airport is no longer the Hamid Karzai International Airport, but simply Kabul International Airport, with the name of the country's former president removed. Several Taliban flags flew from the terminal, which was emblazoned The Islamic Emirate seeks peaceful and positive relations with the world."

Hundreds of other Afghans who say they are at risk for helping the Americans have gathered for more than a week in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif, waiting for permission to board evacuation flights chartered by U.S. supporters. Many are believed not to have the necessary travel documents.

In Mazar-e-Sharif on Thursday, an Afghan who worked 15 years as an interpreter for the U.S. military was moving from hotel to hotel and running out of money as he, his eight children and his wife waited for the OK from the Taliban to leave.

Im frightened I will be left behind, said the man, whose name was withheld by The Associated Press for his safety.

The interpreter said he was one of many former U.S. employees whose special visas the United States approved in the last weeks of the American military presence in Afghanistan. But with the U.S. Embassy closed when the Taliban took Kabul on Aug. 15, it has become impossible to get the visa stamped into his passport.

He said he doesn't trust Taliban assurances that they will not take revenge against Afghans who worked for the Americans.

No, never, he said. I never believe them, because they are lying.

Afghanistan war veteran Matt Zeller, who founded the organization No One Left Behind to help Afghans who supported American troops, said he does not believe it is possible for applicants to the special immigrant visa program to get a visa without an embassy in Kabul.

For all intents and purposes, these peoples chances of escaping the Taliban ended the day we left them behind," he said.

Price said the United States is looking at such steps as electronic visas to overcome the lack of an embassy in Afghanistan.

The organization War Time Allies estimates as many as 20,000 special visa applicants remain in the country, not counting those eligible under a more liberal rule change made in July. Add their families to that and the total amounts to more than 80,000 people, according to the group.

___

Associated Press writers Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City, Julie Watson in San Diego and Bernard Condon in New York contributed to this report.
Ted Cruz went full Jeffrey Lebowski on Twitter this past Labor Day.

The junior senator from Texas and avid tweeter sparked backlash after saying people who will lose unemployment benefits should simply "get a job"  as if the only reason they're unemployed was out of sheer lack of will.

See for yourself:

The article linked in the quoted tweet appears to have been deleted by ABC 33/40 News. The link was an Associated Press story about certain unemployment programs ending, including for those in an extended period without a job and unemployed gig economy workers.

"There are millions of vacancies," Cruz said, "and small businesses across the nation are desperate for workers."

He's not wrong. As of early August, there were a record 10.1 million job openings across the country, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

But what's missing from Cruz's discussion is some important context: Many employers pay unlivable wages or offer little to no benefits, creating a situation where the bare minimum needed to survive through unemployment benefits is more attractive than toiling for pennies.

And the Twitterverse let Cruz have it:

Even anti-vaxxers railed the senator:

What are your thoughts? Let me know on Twitter: @jayrjordan
Bedford, PA (15522)

Today

Cloudy early with scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Plaintiffs in a case challenging a law preventing Malaysian women from passing their citizenship on to their children born overseas pose outside the Kuala Lumpur High Court, April 27, 2021.

Six Malaysian mothers won a landmark case on Thursday when a court ruled that the countrys citizenship laws discriminate against them by preventing them from passing their nationality to their children born abroad.

The women had challenged a clause in the constitution implying that a child born overseas to a Malaysian woman with a foreign spouse does not get Malaysian citizenship.

A Kuala Lumpur High Court judge found that they were suffering gender discrimination, because the same rule does not apply to men in a similar situation.

The grievances of the plaintiffs are real  the discrimination is apparent, Justice Akhtar Tahir said, reading out his ruling during a video conference because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Malaysian constitution states that every person born outside the Federation  whose father is a citizen at the time of the birth is a citizen by operation of law. The word father must be read and understood to include mothers as well, Tahir said.

The full text of his judgment has not yet been made public.

Malaysia was one of about two dozen countries that do not give mothers and fathers equal rights under the countrys citizenship law.

It was not immediately known if the government would appeal the decision, as the prosecution team was not reachable for comment.

Elated plaintiffs shed tears

Myra Eliza Mohd Danil, one of the six plaintiffs, said she was elated by the ruling.

When the judge announced his decision, we all shed tears. We had been waiting for this for so long, she told BenarNews. I cant wait to go home to tell my daughter that she is also Malaysian, just like her brother.

Myra is married to a Zambian man whom she met while studying at a university in Malaysia.

Her daughter did not receive Malaysian citizenship after being born in Zambia  unlike her son, born in Malaysia a couple of years later.

Family Frontiers, a family support group that spearheaded the legal effort, said the verdict was a momentous occasion for their cause.

We are so thankful for this outcome. This is a huge relief for affected mothers because this judgment applies not just to the mothers directly involved in the case as plaintiffs, but to all Malaysian mothers who are similarly affected, said Suri Kempe, president of Family Frontiers.

She said that the judgment recognizes Malaysian womens equality and advances Malaysia to be more egalitarian and just.

With the help of Family Frontiers, the plaintiffs filed the legal suit in December 2020.

The court had previously thrown out an application from the attorney general to dismiss the case on grounds that it was frivolous.

In this case, there is clear discrimination against the parents of the child, and there is no justification for it. This case is not something frivolous, vexatious, and an abuse of the process of the Court, Justice Akhtar had ruled in May, deciding to hear the case.

Minister, lawyers applaud the decision

Lawyers for the plaintiffs said the judge arrived at his decision by ruling that the constitutional articles on citizenship must be read in harmony with Article 8(2) of the federal constitution. The article was amended in 2001 to include a prohibition of gender discrimination.

Joshua Andran, part of the plaintiffs legal team, applauded the judges decision to interpret the constitution in light of present-day ideals.

In this day and age, discrimination against women, especially in such a fundamental issue as citizenship, cannot be allowed to continue, he said, adding that the decision illustrates the countrys effort to promote true equality between Malaysian men and women.

Mothers, and women as a whole, have been owed this for nearly 20 years, and today they have been honored not just by words and gestures but in pragmatic terms, Joshua told BenarNews.

Law Minister Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar said the decision reflected the interpretation of the constitution in totality instead of clause by clause.

I believe that each provision of the articles in the Federal Constitution could not be read in isolation. It must be read together with other related provisions governing the related subject matter, Wan Junaidi told BenarNews.

Judges must be brave enough to introduce that sense and harmony. Any discriminatory provision ought to be interpreted harmoniously with that fundamental principle, and any inconsistency ought to be removed by harmonious interpretation, the minister said.
A woman receives a dose of the Chinese Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine at the Narathiwat Hospital compound in the southern province of Narathiwat, Thailand, Aug. 5, 2021.

The infectious Delta variant of COVID-19 is cutting a swathe through much of Southeast Asia as some of the regions countries report daily new infections close to record highs after a flattening late last year and in early 2021.

Indonesia, where new cases have dropped to below 10,000 daily following a horrific second wave in June and July that saw infections soar to as high as 56,757 in one day, is one of the regions bright spots.

In Malaysia where 70.5 percent of adults are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, new cases remain high because of the Delta variant and three other factors, said Dr. Kris See, medical director of the Osel Group, a health care company.

First, substandard preventative measures  for example, substandard quality of masks; second, the lack of or failure to do contact tracing and no testing of asymptomatic infected people before their discharge from quarantine; and third, different rates of vaccination roll-out by different states, Dr. See told BenarNews.

In a span of 28 days through Wednesday, the number of new cases in Malaysia increased by nearly 580,000, taking the country close to breaking the 2 million mark, government data shows.

Worse, as of Wednesday, about 35 percent of new infections were reported among fully vaccinated people  called breakthrough infections  and nearly 23 percent of hospitalized patients were fully inoculated, according to the data.

Malaysian Health Director-General Noor Hisham Abdullah said fully vaccinated people need to follow all safety precautions.

Once vaccinated, we still need to comply to SOP, as we still can be infected but with less severity, Noor Hisham told BenarNews, referring to Malaysias standard operating protocols during the pandemic.

Now, if you have 80 to 90 percent of people vaccinated, then the reason for breakthrough infections is non-compliance  more so for the elderly and those with comorbidities.

Thailand to discontinue Chinas Sinovac shots

Meanwhile, in neighboring Thailand, daily new cases remain above 14,000  although they have declined slightly since a peak in mid-August  as the countrys inoculation program got off to a slow start.

Pro-democracy protesters now include the perceived mismanagement of vaccine procurement among their grievances.

Amid this public disquiet, a war of words has erupted over the Chinese-made Sinovac vaccine, which Thailand will soon stop importing, Sophon Iamsirithaworn, director of the Department of Disease Control said last week.

The announcement follows a move by Malaysian officials in July to stop using Sinovacs vaccine.

Thailands Sophon did not give a reason for planning to stop importing the Sinovac vaccines, but his announcement came after a heated debate in parliament last week about its cost and efficacy.

Close to two months ago, the Thai government said frontline health workers who received the Chinese vaccine as their first shot would receive an AstraZeneca jab as their second one. In July, a prominent doctor said the Sinovac vaccine was not effective enough against the highly transmissible Delta variant, the Bangkok Post had reported.

Late Wednesday, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Tanee Sangrat defended Sinovacs efficacy, saying the distortion of facts about the Chinese shot had impacted Thailands relationship with a good and close friend.

[C]ertain persons and groups have undermined the Sinovac vaccine regardless of facts and accuracy, while China has been a long-time cordial friend of Thailand  and Sinovac was approved by the World Health Organization, Tanee said.

The Chinese embassy in Thailand on Sept. 3 denounced the slander of the [Sinovac] vaccine by some persons and organizations in Thailand without a reason.

On Tuesday, the cabinet of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha approved purchasing 12 million Sinovac doses. Thai news reports said the government will stop administering the Chinese shots in October when about 70 million Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines are expected to arrive.

Additionally, as Thailand continues to suffer a shortage of vaccines amid high infection numbers, health authorities said they plan to start vaccinating citizens with a combination of Sinovacs and AstraZeneca/Pfizers shots.

Elsewhere in Southeast Asia, the Philippines crossed 2 million infections on Sept. 1 before reporting a record number of new cases  22,820  on Thursday. With 61 new virus-related deaths recorded as well, the pandemic death toll has risen to 34,733.

Only 13.8 million of the Philippines 109.6 million people are fully vaccinated, according to the state-run Philippine News Agency.

Because of the worsening situation, the government earlier this week walked back a plan to cut back on movement restrictions, meaning Metro Manila and nearby suburbs remain on lockdown.

Indonesia, meanwhile, relaxed coronavirus restrictions on Monday, allowing most parts of Java Island to conditionally open malls, factories and restaurants, news agencies reported.

The countrys daily coronavirus positivity rate  the proportion of people tested who are positive  dropped below 5 percent this week for the first time since March 2020, The Jakarta Post reported.

The World Health Organization has said a positivity rate above 5 percent is an indication COVID-19 is out of control.
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte addresses members of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) Laban at the partys convention to name candidates for the 2022 general election, Sept. 8, 2021.

Philippine leader Rodrigo Dutertes bid to run for vice president in next years election could be dogged by corruption allegations related to government purchases of COVID-19 protection equipment, but analysts say those claims may not derail his plans.

This reflects the failure of watchdog institutions, which was a problem even in previous administrations, said Tony La Vina, a lawyer and former dean of the Ateneo School of Government.

It is politics and corruption that have come together  that is the bane of the nation and it gets worse because of people thinking they can get away with anything, La Vina told BenarNews.

Duterte, in particular, was backpedaling on so many, many democratic institutions, Clarita Carlos, a political science professor at the University of the Philippines told BenarNews.

The corruption allegations put the spotlight on the presidents closest allies after the Commission on Audit (COA) highlighted some financial discrepancies in the governments handling of funds to address the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COA flagged 67.32 billion pesos ($1.34 billion) in deficient funds at the health department. Auditors explained saying the money represented missed opportunities in the pandemic response.

Following the COA release, the Senate launched an investigation into billions of pesos spent on personal protective equipment (PPE), COVID-19 test kits and other medical supplies from private contractors.

In particular, senators looked into Pharmally Pharmaceuticals, the local unit of Taiwan-based Pharmally International Holding Co. Ltd., which bagged contracts totaling more than 8.6 billion pesos (U.S. $172 million).

The televised Senate probe revealed that Pharmally may have sold PPE sets to the health department at more than double the governments price cap.

It also found that Pharmally is linked to Michael Yang, Dutertes longtime friend and former economic adviser. Both men were filmed meeting Pharmallys executives in 2017, according to the Senate.

Later, photographs showing Duterte with Yang and another Pharmally executive touring what appeared to be an office in China in 2015 went public months before Duterte became president.

Yang is Chinese and his involvement with Dutertes administration was questioned in 2018. His stint as Dutertes adviser ended soon after.

The law requires the government to hold competitive public bidding for every supply contract. But that did not happen because at Dutertes behest, Congress passed special laws allowing the administration to forego such bidding to address the coronavirus emergency.

That was my order, and I take full responsibility for that, Duterte said.

There was another troubling allegation about Pharmally. The Senate probe said the company had links to business executives wanted in Taiwan for alleged financial fraud.

During his weekly televised address to the nation on Aug. 30, Duterte denied the Pharmally contracts were overpriced.

This was the lowest bid. What else is your problem? Duterte said.

Because its Michael Yang? You see, the guy is a businessman. He doesnt throw money around. He has contacts with big corporations in China.

Since then, Duterte has defended his government against corruption allegations and said the Senate investigation was poorly timed.

All of you in the Senate, do not investigate programs that are ongoing. You will derail it. You will delay it by your incessant penchant for investigating government offices, Duterte said during another televised address, on Sept. 2.

Duterte crossing the line

Lawyer La Vina said Dutertes responses lacked details.

Its a blanket denial  no specific denials, no response to things that we are finding out. He just makes his blanket statements without any basis, without showing anything, he said.

Carlos, the University of the Philippines professor, said Duterte is causing the erosion of our democratic institutions by lashing out at the Senate and the COA for having done their jobs.

When you tell the COA and the Senate to stop investigating, youre really crossing the line, she said.

She noted that Dutertes campaign promise when he ran for President was to rid the government of corruption and eradicate drug trafficking.

He keeps on touting transparency. Why doesnt he put that into action? Carlos said.

2022 election

This Senate investigation may have affected Dutertes closest ally, Sen. Christopher Go, the analysts said.

Their Partido Demokratiko Pilipino (PDP) Laban party is pushing Go to run for president in 2022. Because Philippine law limits presidents to a single six-year term, Dutertes best chance of retaining power  by proxy  is to run for vice president.

Analysts have said the partys push for Go to run for the top spot, or an earlier effort to support the presidents daughter, Sara, were attempts to shield Duterte from prosecution.

While Duterte has accepted the partys nomination for vice president, Go on Wednesday announced he is not interested in running for president.

On Thursday, Sara Duterte, who serves as mayor of Davao City  the post held by her father prior to the presidential election  told reporters in a text message that she will not seek office next year.

Meanwhile, senators are no longer hesitant about criticizing Duterte as his term as president winds down.

In fact, those leading the televised probe  senators Panfilo Lacson and Richard Gordon along with Senate President Vicente Sotto III  have all said they would seek higher office in 2022.

Theyre not afraid of Duterte anymore. They know that whatever happens, hes no longer going to be in power, analyst La Vina said.

Theyre certainly not going to protect him anymore and if its to their advantage, they will attack him.

A politician with nine lives

Still, Filipinos tend to have short memories about government controversies, the analysts said.

The controversy may reduce Dutertes and his allies chances in next years election, but it does not guarantee victory for his opponents.

If the senators think they are going to earn points because their faces are on TV, they are mistaken. I doubt that very much, Carlos said.

Likewise, the corruption allegations will not necessarily rule out Duterte or his allies ending up victorious, she said.

Voting is on May 9. This issue will probably be forgotten by next week, said Carlos.

The problem lies in the countrys political system, Carlos and La Vina said.

Political parties are built around personalities and lack clear-cut ideologies. Politicians jump from one party to another depending on the political climate, they said.

For instance, they noted that the PDPs membership swelled after Duterte won the 2016 elections.

It would be stupid to underestimate him as we did in 2016. He will have something up his sleeve, but it doesnt necessarily mean he will win, La Vina said of Duterte.

This is a politician with nine lives.
Philippine troops transport the bodies of four alleged communist rebels following a clash in the town of San Fernando, in the southern province of Bukidnon, Sept. 8, 2021.

The military said Thursday its soldiers had killed four communist guerrillas in a clash in the southern Philippines, as the government appointed an ex-general who drove the states anti-communist campaign as the presidents national security adviser.

The hour-long clash took place Wednesday in San Fernando village of Bukidnon province, where soldiers went after what was described as New Peoples Army (NPA) members conducting a recruitment drive, a military statement said.

The NPA is the armed unit of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), engaged in the regions longest-running insurgency, dating to 1969. Troops relentlessly pursued the rebels in a decisive engagement that resulted in the death of four rebels, capture of eight others, and rescue of a minor combatant, the military said. No injuries or deaths were reported on the military side.

Two captured individuals sustained wounds but were immediately given first aid and taken to a hospital by troops, the military said.

A military official said the minor was 12 years old and was transferred to the custody of social workers.

The CPP-NPA-NDF should stop their madness of recruiting children into the armed struggle, Lt. Gen. Greg Almerol, the regional military chief, told reporters.

The National Democratic Front (NDF) is the political wing of the movement.

The casualties were part of a 20-person unit of the NPA that was sent to the area to conduct recruitment activities, Almerol said.

He said the military recovered, among other things, 16 high-powered firearms, including a grenade launcher.

Almerol asked the rebels to give up peacefully rather than end up as casualties.

It is befitting to stress that the whole EastMinCom discourages the use of brute force in confronting the rebels, he said, referring to the armed forces Eastern Mindanao Command. That is why we continually urge the remaining NPA members to lay down their arms and stop sacrificing their lives for a senseless ideology, he said.

In 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the security forces to crush the communist rebellion in an all-out war by the time his six-year term ends next year.

One of eight alleged communist rebels wounded in a clash in the southern Philippine province of Bukidnon receives first aid from government soldiers, Sep. 8, 2021. [Armed Forces of the Philippines handout]

Anti-communist commander appointed top security adviser

The deadly encounter in Bukidnon came just ahead of the government announcing the appointment of controversial ex-army general Antonio Parlade Jr. as the presidents national security adviser.

Parlade was formerly the spokesman of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), an agency tasked with helping reintegrate former rebels back to society.

But, instead, the agency, and the general, grew controversial for accusing lawmakers, journalists, celebrities and others of being communist rebels or sympathizers.

The general quit the government anti-communist task force in July.

Parlade faithfully served the Armed Forces of the Philippines for many years until his retirement from the service, Harry Roque, Dutertes spokesman, said Thursday.

We are therefore confident that his length of fruitful service in the military would immensely contribute in the crafting of plans and policies affecting national security, Roque said.

We wish Parlade well in his new assignment.

Duterte established the task force in December 2018 after failed attempts at peace negotiations with the communists.

It implements the governments two-pronged strategy to stamp out the insurgency: sustained military operations against guerrilla units, coupled with local government programs to entice rebels to defect, including amnesty and economic aid packages.

Parlade earned a reputation for red-tagging  a practice among Philippine military and police personnel of accusing individual people or groups of being communist rebels or sympathizers.

The general has faced defamation cases from leftist lawmakers, groups, and personalities whom he has accused.

He had to apologize publicly or retract his accusations several times, including when he wrongly linked a Filipina movie film star, Angel Locsin, to the communists.

In February, he also accused Tetch Torres-Tupas, a reporter for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, of being a communist propagandist after she reported about indigenous tribespeople petitioning against a controversial anti-terrorism law passed last year.

Media advocacy and human rights groups complained about Parlades comments and his conduct. New York-based Human Rights Watch called on Manila to investigate red-baiting and to have Parlade answer for his provocative remarks.

In recent years, scores of activists and people associated with progressive groups have been killed in assassinations or police operations, often after being red-tagged.
In remote areas of the northern Philippines, health workers have fanned out to far-flung communities to inoculate residents who have been hesitant to receive COVID-19 shots.

Health workers used motorized canoes to reach villages near the town of Bani, Pangasinan province, in the northwestern coast of Luzon, the countrys largest island.

Im glad residents here have welcomed and overcome their fear of the vaccines, Dr. Ariel Estrada, who leads Banis health unit, told BenarNews.

There will always be hesitancy about the vaccine. But once people have more information about it  the more they want to get the vaccine. Its the low supply of vaccines we worry more about, Estrada said.

Villagers, many of whom rely on fishing to survive, welcomed the arrival of the vaccination team.

Village official Albert Peralta said people had hesitated to get the vaccine maybe because of what they hear from the news and mostly from social media.

The first time we tried to convince them to get vaccinated, only a handful wanted it, Peralta said. But that was changing, he added, because having a vaccination card is helping villagers preserve their livelihood.

Many here dont want to lose their jobs again, particularly the drivers who transport fish and agricultural products to other places where they will ask for a negative COVID test results. Now, they can just show their vaccination card and they will be allowed to travel, he said.

Mayor Gwen Palafox-Yamamoto said residents who return home after traveling for work are often responsible for COVID-19 infections.

Those who work in other towns or cities, these are the people we want to inoculate as they are the ones bringing the virus to their families, she told BenarNews. We just hope the national government would supply us with more vaccines to inoculate essential workers. This is the only way to curb the spread of the COVID-19 here.

On Wednesday, the health department reported 12,751 COVID-19 infections and 174 deaths in the previous 24 hours. Since the pandemic began, more than 2.13 million Filipinos have been infected and 34,672 have died.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 80F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Cloudy with periods of rain. Low around 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms becoming likely this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 80F. Winds SW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Periods of rain. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall near a half an inch.
Q: How do these delicate, gossamer wonders form? (a photo was included). They are on my shrubs and in the grass and have no visible filaments.

 Nancy S., Pittsfield

A: It took me a while to arrive at an identification of what exactly spins these webs. Several of my regular sources did not know until I asked a long-time source, Lisa Provencher, who has long been a source of insect queries that baffled me. I neglected to contact her earlier because spiders are not insects. Foolish of me. Lisa explained that it is one of the Angelenopsis, commonly known as American grass spiders.

When Naturewatch was young and went by the title Ask Mr. Smith, my editor, Ruth Bass, who also incidentally allowed me to write for The Eagles Sunday Sampler first brought these mysterious clouds forming overnight on her lawn to my attention. She called them "Fairy Webs."

For many years I have noticed their webs becoming more plentiful as summer progressed and, for some reason, never took the time to sneak up on a web close enough to see which spider made it. This query was the nudge I needed, and I began sneaking up on the traps with a camera and close-up lense determined to capture a spider at the mouth of its tunnel. Careful inspection will reveal each web with a tunnel the spider will retreat into at near lightning speed when a dangerous or inquisitive visitor approach.

If you touch the web, you will notice that these are not sticky, unlike many other webs. When an insect prey is detected, the spider will rush out rapidly to capture it. Often the insect will be eaten (sucked dry of its fluids) immediately at the capture point.

Their nests are most obvious early in the morning when dew highlights their constructions. And while they often build on low shrubs like junipers or other evergreens, they also cover large expanses of lawn web by web. These spiders also construct their webs around lawn and deck furniture, I have noticed, causing me to avoid moving our furniture too frequently, now that I have come to know them better.

SQUIRRELS STEALING LIGHTS

Q: Caught in the act: Squirrels took 48 bulbs off my string lights. My neighbor caught them in the act too. Something in the lights is plant-based which makes them think its food. Thats what I was told. I didnt understand it either, but from hearing from my neighbors, they saw them hiding them after biting them off. I have a video of them chewing them off or I wouldnt believe it. Any ideas how to stop them as its expensive to replace all the strings of lights.

 Cheryl G., Dalton

A: Apparently, this is something that has bypassed my education! And the answer lies on the internet; although I assume you are not referring to Christmas Lights, decorative lights are decorative lights: pestpointers.com/ways-to-stop-squirrels-from-eating-your-christmas-lights/.

It isnt something in the bulbs that is plant-based, but the shape of the lights resembles food. We lived in Dalton for about 40 years, and we often decorated outdoors with Christmas lights. Now that we are in Pittsfield, we also hang Christmas lights and have a few non-holiday lights through the year. Gray squirrels are numerous in the neighborhood, and I never saw this or even heard of this at any season until you brought it up, Cheryl.

It is simple when we think about it. When winter comes, gray squirrels become desperate and search for any food source they can find; they assume the lights are acorns or something similar and remove each to return to their winter nest. Why they are stealing lights at this season dumbfounds me, as they have food aplenty. They chew through the wires that string the lights together to get to the lights themselves. (Like mice, they will also nibble on any electrical wire, sometimes causing a hazard.)

To curtail this habit, you can spray in the vicinity of the lights or soak cotton balls (adding a snowball effect to your ornaments) with rodent repellent or peppermint oil. I would not recommend spraying the lights themselves for safety.

EMERALD ASH BORER

There has been considerable conversation relating to the Emerald Ash Borer, here are three web sites with information that might answer many questions:
General Electric, shown during a 1946 labor strike, long held the title of largest employer in Pittsfield and Berkshire County. GE sold its Pittsfield aerospace plant in 1993, and a few ownership changes put the facility in the hands of General Dynamics, which now occupies former GE buildings, as well as the role of Berkshire Countys largest for-profit employer.
PITTSFIELD  U.S. leaders used the Sept. 11 attacks as justification for military interventions that have resulted in nearly $6 trillion in federal spending, in addition to deployment of more than 2 million U.S. troops overseas.

For Berkshire Countys second-largest employer, defense contractor General Dynamics, the post-9/11 shift in U.S. foreign policy likely played a role in the expansion of its Pittsfield operations. About 1,800 people, including about 200 government employees, work at General Dynamics Pittsfield facility, in large part on technologies designed for the military. The company receives most of its revenue through federal contracts, and its Pittsfield payroll totals $150 million.

What were good at is designing and developing things that go on ships and go on submarines ... and our costs are attractive, said Carlo Zaffanella, vice president and general manager of General Dynamics maritime and strategic systems, in a March 2020 interview.

General Dynamics did not respond to multiple interview requests for this story.

The companys growth in Pittsfield over the past two decades can be seen as a microcosm of post-2001 trends in the defense industry, said Alex Roland, a professor emeritus of history at Duke University. Fighting relatively small groups in the Middle East, the U.S. military increasingly valued high-tech information systems designed to track enemy movements, leaving companies such as General Dynamics well-positioned to win contracts, Roland said.

9/11 changed everything, because suddenly the military of the Cold War was not the military that the U.S. needed for what President [George W.] Bush called the war on terror,  said Roland, who studies military history and the history of technology. The weapons systems are still important, but these other technological capabilities have become essential to finding out what the enemy is doing, what the enemy is planning to do, and when and where they are going to do it.

From General Electric to General Dynamics: Pittsfield's economy has fluctuated with large employers General Dynamics has replaced General Electric as the largest for-profit employer in Berkshire County. Throughout Pittsfields history, the decisions of large corporations have had pronounced consequences for the citys workers.

The post-Cold War uncertainty for weapons manufacturers initially hurt the local economy. General Electric had employed 2,650 people at its aerospace division before selling the division in 1993.

After a few ownership changes, General Dynamics took over in 1997 and later that year announced plans to cut 650 jobs as it shifted land combat and artillery work to other facilities. The approximately 1,000 employees who remained would focus on software development and electronic systems.

The Sept. 11 attacks served as a turning point. They marked the end of the post-Cold War period in which people hoped money could be diverted from military- or security-oriented enterprises and used for things like education or health, said Richard Immerman, the Stanley Kaplan distinguished visiting professor of American foreign policy at Williams College.

Certainly after 9/11, a tremendous sense of dread pervaded the country, so, youre going to spend money on whatever you can to promote security, he said of U.S. leaders.

General Dynamics decision to focus on high-tech operations  they are known in the industry as C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance)  in Pittsfield likely brought lasting benefits for the local economy, Roland said.

The particular subsidiary that came to your area was, it turned out, part of the wave of the future, Roland said. Fortunately for General Dynamics and this particular subsidiary, theyve continued to thrive since then because they made a good bet on microelectronics.

General Dynamics has grown its workforce in all but one year it has spent in Pittsfield, Zaffanella told The Eagle in 2017.

Those jobs tend to require high education and skill levels, and in Berkshire County, there are regularly more than 1,000 open jobs that employers said the local workforce did not have the skills to take on. Nevertheless, about 80 percent of the workers General Dynamics hires in Pittsfield come from within a two-hour drive from the city, Zafanella said in March 2020.

Local leaders have celebrated General Dynamics and the jobs it has brought to Pittsfield. General Dynamics, Mayor Linda Tyer said in March 2020, is an anchor institution in our city, and the city is proud that you make our city your home.

General Dynamics expanding Pittsfield operations PITTSFIELD  Three years after first expanding into General Electric's former complex on Plastics Avenue, General Dynamics Mission Systems is going further into those buildings as its local 

For some residents, though, Pittsfields growing relationship with General Dynamics is an uncomfortable bond. Don Lathrop, a professor emeritus of philosophy at Berkshire Community College, remembers some residents feeling torn between celebrating local jobs and opposing the production of equipment linked to the loss of life.

We cant have peace if were building for war all the time, said Lathrop, who taught in Pittsfield for over 40 years.

Lathrop helped BCC launch a Peace and World Order Studies concentration and, for nearly two decades, has led a weekly peace vigil in Park Square alongside Marion Lathrop, his wife. The Lathrops were among those who started that vigil in 2002, to oppose the planned U.S. invasion of Iraq.

There is good reason to believe the government will continue to give lucrative deals to contractors such as General Dynamics. Scholars recall a warning issued by former President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1961 on the potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power through what he called the military-industrial complex.

Theres a sort of revolving door of people who go into government and then go out of government, so, if they go to Boeing or they go to General Dynamics, they know the people in government who purchase things, Immerman said.

Contracting people Richard Immerman, the Stanley Kaplan distinguished visiting professor of American foreign policy at Williams College, said that, since 2001, the government increasingly has relied upon contractors not just for hardware and technology, but also for personnel. The post-Cold War downsizing of national security agencies led many former government officials to take jobs in the private defense industry. After 9/11, the government wanted to hire back personnel, but with the people it targeted already employed by private companies, it could hire them back only as contractors. The Washington Post estimated in 2010 that among the 854,000 people with top secret security clearances, 265,000 were contractors. When Immerman served in the government as assistant deputy director of national intelligence for analytic integrity and standards from 2007-09, his office had 14 full-time government employees and 30 contractors, he said. Immerman said that while he does not question the commitment of individuals who work as contractors, he finds the trend of privatizing government troubling. In terms of transparency, there is so much the public doesnt know, so, those who work as contractors through General Dynamics or whatever the company is arent held accountable in the way that an elected or even an appointed public servant is, Immerman said.

Before World War II, government establishments participated in research and development, as well as some production, of military arms and equipment. Since then, the work has shifted toward private companies working under contract for the military.

Once you got companies that have built their whole business model around manufacturing and selling things to the government, to the military, the way you make that sale is, you lobby, Roland said.

Those companies tend to be good at what they do, Roland said, but as political actors, they often put pressure on an administration to serve their particular, parochial interests and not the national interest.

In other words, they want more defense spending, not because its best for the country, but because its best for them, Roland said.

General Dynamics has spent over $10 million on lobbying every year from 2009 to 2020. It also has succeeded in landing its own personnel in top government posts. Jim Mattis, for example, served on the companys board of directors from 2013 until 2017, when he left to become secretary of defense. Mattis rejoined General Dynamics in 2019, after resigning from the Pentagon.

U.S. defense spending doubled in the decade after Sept. 11, making up as much as one-fifth of the total national budget. The defense budget since has declined proportional to gross domestic product, but still, the U.S. spent $703.7 billion in the most recent fiscal year, more than three times as much as China, the next top spender, at $209 billion.

The past three U.S. presidents all have indicated a desire to shift the foreign policy focus away from wars in the Middle East  The perception was dawning that these wars were draining scarce resources, Roland said, when the conflicts did not pose a threat to our essential national security. But, as national leaders have shifted their focus toward struggles with Russia and China, Roland expects little to change for companies such as General Dynamics.

No matter what the U.S. turns to in its policies, those kinds of technologies in the microelectronics realm are going to be essential, Roland said, adding that the technologies easily are adaptable for civilian applications. So, General Dynamics is well-placed to survive, no matter what happens.
HiLo North Adams, pictured here prior to the pandemic, will now require proof of at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose, or a negative test result, to attend shows.
Investigations editor

Larry Parnass joined The Eagle in 2016 from the Daily Hampshire Gazette, where he was editor in chief. His freelance work has appeared in the Washington Post, Boston Globe, Hartford Courant, CommonWealth Magazine and with the Reuters news service.
The Lee Select Board has granted Higher Purpose Corp. another year to get its cultivation/manufacturing facility on Pleasant Street (Route 102) up an running.
Some Massachusetts Health Connector members may have received notices that they could lose their insurance subsidies unless they update their income information.

But updating that information is fairly easy to do, says William Cruz, senior patient navigator at Community Health Programs Berkshires. Cruz recommends that anyone who has received such a communication reach out to CHPs patient navigators or others who provide help with the application process.

Losing their coverage is to me not an option, Cruz said. They have better options. They can reach out, reapply and make sure their information is accurate, and Im pretty sure we can get them something.

Massachusetts established the Health Connector to implement a 2006 health care law and seeks to provide subsidies to people who do not receive affordable health insurance through an employer. People are eligible if they do not have employer-based insurance or if their employer-based insurance requires them to pay more than 9.83 percent of household income, the federal Affordable Care Act threshold.

After people apply, they are approved either for MassHealth or the Health Connector. Those who do not qualify for MassHealth are approved for the Health Connector.

With Berkshire residents losing health insurance, programs offer help with applications When thousands of Berkshire County residents lost their jobs during the coronavirus pandemic, many of them lost health insurance, too.

Each year, some Health Connector members receive notices that they must update their income information, Cruz said. He believes slightly more people may be receiving notices this year due to changes in income related to the pandemic. If, for example, somebody moved from an old job  or unemployment insurance  to a new one, that person would need to reflect the change.

Where to go for help... Below are some options for free-of-charge assistance with applying for insurance: Community Health Programs (all Massachusetts residents), P.O. Box 30, 444 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230; 413-717-6268; enrollment@chpberkshires.org; chpberkshires.org/medical/insurance-help Advocacy for Access of Berkshire Medical Center (all Massachusetts residents), 510 North St., Suite 8, Pittsfield, MA 01201; 413-445-9480; berkshirehealthsystems.org/advocacy Advocacy for Access of Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington, MA 01230; 413-854-9616. Ecu-Health Care (North Adams, Cheshire, Adams, Savoy, Florida, Clarksburg and Williamstown residents), 99 Hospital Ave., Suite 208, North Adams, MA 01247; 413-663-8711; bbelisle2@bhs1.org; ecuhealthcarena.com SHINE (Medicare beneficiaries), Elder Services of Berkshire County, 877 South St., Suite 4E, Pittsfield, MA 01201; 413-499-0524/800-544-5242/800-243-4636; esbci.org/programs_and_services/shine.html

This year, more than 130,000 people in Massachusetts must update their income information to keep the subsidies, Louis Gutierrez, executive director of the Health Connector agency, told the State House News Service. Thats around 60 percent of all members, up from 20 to 25 percent in a typical year.

The agency plans to draw attention to the topic through social media and through public open enrollment events, Gutierrez said. On top of the five previously planned communications to members who need to update their accounts, the agency has planned two additional attempts in September and December.

CHP began sending letters to members last month.

Open enrollment begins Nov. 1, but well be in touch with them before then, Cruz said.

Well be very busy from November on, he said, so his advice to members is dont wait to reach out if they fear losing coverage.

This report includes material from State House News Service.
The 20th anniversary of Sept. 11 is coming at a difficult time. Many local veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan said it has been difficult and frustrating to watch the way the U.S. left Afghanistan in chaos last month, and felt a range of emotions as the attack anniversary approached.
North West isnt having it with anything inauthentic.

Kim Kardashian and Kanye Wests oldest daughter claims her mom changes her voice in videos she makes to promote products.

While promoting items from her BoxyCharm line, Kardashian was interrupted by North and her niece Penelope. In the series of videos, Kim says, Hey guys, I just got my new BoxyCharm and I just wanted to share with you all of the super cute, amazing things.

Before asking North West to get out of the video she added, My daughter is here trying to hate on my BoxyCharm.

RELATED: Kim Kardashian Breaks Down Over Kanye Divorce In New KUWTK Teaser

Kim goes on the express her enthusiasm for the new box and continues jokingly shooes away North, saying, Northi stop, thats annoying.

Confused, Kim tells North she is the same person. After asking how she speaks differently, North explains by mocking her, Hey guys, so today I got this new mask, and I got this new bronzer, [and] I got this! she says.

Kim then jokingly asks her fans if she sounds different and before she could finish the question, North replies, yes.

Watch what happened below.
According to the Associated Press , the removal process began last night and wasnt completed until this morning. The 12-ton Confederate monument was erected in 1890 and it was the largest remaining Confederate statue in the United States. Onlookers were heard chanting Hey, hey, hey, goodbye and whose streets? Our streets! See below:

Last year, it was announced that Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam would remove the statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee from Richmond's Monument Avenue. After several lawsuits and the states Supreme Court ruling last week that Northam had the authority to remove the monument, the statue was finally taken down today (Sept. 8).

On Sept. 7, Northam said in a statement, "Virginia's largest monument to the Confederate insurrection will come down this week. This is an important step in showing who we are and what we value as a Commonwealth.

RELATED: Virginia Lawmakers Take New Steps Toward Getting Rid Of Holiday Dedicated To Confederate Generals



Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney also added, "We are taking an important step this week to embrace the righteous cause and put the 'Lost Cause' behind us. Richmond is no longer the capital of the Confederacy. We are a diverse, open and welcoming city, and our symbols need to reflect this reality."

Lee led the Confederate army during the Civil War from 1861 to 1865, in which Southern states seceded from the United States over the upholding of the institution of slavery. He surrendered along with his 28,000 troops at Appomattox, Va., in April 1865 to Union General Ulysses S. Grant.

The Associated Press reports the statue will be cut into pieces so it can be transferred to a secure location. Its final destination has not been made public as of yet.

Since last year, over 160 Confederate symbols have been removed across the country.
Weather Alert

...FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT/8 PM EDT/ THIS EVENING... The National Weather Service in Louisville has issued a * Flash Flood Watch for portions of east central Kentucky, north central Kentucky, northwest Kentucky and south central Kentucky, including the following areas, in east central Kentucky, Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Fayette, Garrard, Jessamine, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas and Woodford. In north central Kentucky, Hardin, Larue, Nelson and Washington. In northwest Kentucky, Ohio. In south central Kentucky, Adair, Allen, Barren, Butler, Casey, Cumberland, Edmonson, Grayson, Green, Hart, Lincoln, Logan, Marion, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, Taylor and Warren. * Until 7 PM CDT/8 PM EDT/ this evening. * A line of showers and storms will persist across portions of central Kentucky this morning and potentially result in flash flooding. Additional showers and storms are likely to fire off this afternoon ahead of a cold front and could contribute to additional flooding. The flood threat should end late this evening as the cold front pushes through the region. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued. &&
Aiden Vaught (Spearfish football): Vaught recorded nine tackles on Friday night, while eight of those were solo tackles. He also had one interception.

Sturgis Brown Competitive Cheer: The team has had three competitions this year and has improved its average score in each competition.

Sam Kooima Lead-Deadwood football: Kooima scored three touchdowns and threw for three more. He ran six times for 60 yards and two touchdowns, completed six of six pass attempts for 92 yards and three touchdowns, and returned a punt 64 yards for a score.

Tilli Katon (Lead-Deadwood volleyball): Tilli recorded 11 serving aces in a Sept. 7 victory over Edgemont.

Kyra Vandenberg (Belle Fourche cross country): Vandenberg finished fourth in the varsity girls division at the Belle Fourche Invitational. This was the first 5-kilometer and varsity race for the Bronc seventh-grader

Kaylin Garza (Belle Fourche volleyball): Garza collected 27 kills, eight blocks, 14 digs, and five aces in matches this past week.

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OLYMPIA - On Thursday, Washington Governor Jay Inslee directed all Washington State and United States flags to be flown at half-staff on Friday, September 10, 2021 in memory of Former Colfax Fire Chief and Volunteer Firefighter Jim Krouse. Chief Krouse, 76, died in the line of duty on Saturday, August 28, 2021.

Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Friday, September 10, 2021.

A memorial service for Krouse will take place on September 10, 2021 at the First Baptist Church in Colfax at 1:00 pm.

9/11 Flag Lowering

The second flag lowering is scheduled for Saturday, September 11 ,2021 for national Patriot Day, the annual memorial to the victims of the 2001 tragedy.

The Governors Office has no objection to agencies lowering the flags at the close of business on Friday, September 10, 2021. Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Saturday, September 11, 2021, or first thing Monday morning, September 13.

Please call (360) 902-0383 if you have any questions about this flag lowering.
Mainly Jem's Birding & Ringing Exploits in the Eastern Province & Ringing Trips to Bahrain
Geometry's Cape Town team have joined VMLY&R South Africa, expanding VMLY&R's service offering and creating the means for the company to be even more channel-agnostic. This follows on from WPP's decision to move the Geometry business across to VMLY&R under the brand VMLY&R Commerce in most other territories at the end of 2020. Logistically, the move sees 35 team members leaving Geometry and integrating into VMLY&R officially from August.

Bolstering BTL Capability

I speak on behalf of our entire creative studio when I say that the excitement around this integration is palpable, says Matthew van der Walk, executive creative director at Geometry. Our complementary skillsets now allow us to consolidate our disciplines and fully embrace the diversity and richness that sits across the teams. After some initial collaboration, its clear that we are all focused on delivering an exceptional creative product that answers our clients' business needs. We are eager to co-create end-to-end brand experiences that drive growth for our people, our clients, and their brands.The Geometry team brings a wealth of experience in dark marketing and below-the-line campaigns, adding new depth to this part of VMLY&Rs business. Their arrival also bolsters VMLY&Rs already strong commerce and shopper offering. The additional experience and expertise in these areas mean VMLY&R will be even better equipped to devise full-service creative and innovative solutions for our clients.We look forward to welcoming the talented people from Geometry into the VMLY&R world, says Jarred Cinman, VMLY&R CEO. Their skills make them among the very few dark marketing specialists in the country. At VMLY&R, we are on a journey to being as channel agnostic as possible and their arrival will go a long way towards helping us along this path. We look forward to offering our clients a truly integrated and full-service agency experience.
The winners of the 2021 SA Olive Awards have been announced. The annual SA Olive Awards, a premier fixture on the South African olive industry calendar, acknowledges the commitment and the strive for excellence that characterises the country's local olive oil industry.

Gold awards in Delicate category

Gold awards in Medium category

Gold awards in Intense category

Complexity, harmony and character

The winning olive oils were awarded at an exclusive gala function held today at Webersburg Wine Estate near Stellenbosch. Following many months of hard work, which culminated in the autumn harvest, 46 South African olive oil producers submitted a total of 113 of their best extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) to be judged.All 113 EVOOs were rigorously assessed and judged during an extensive five-day blind tasting by professional taster and panel leader, Aldo Mazzini from Italy, and five local tasters and judges  Reni Hildenbrand, Jackie Loubser, Benedetta Lami, Marlene Loubser and Michelle Kruger.These are the Gold winners in the three SA Olive Awards categories. Kleinbergskloof Estate Blend Olive Boutique Frantoio Willow Creek Nuy Valley EVOO De Rustica Collection: Frantoio De Rustica Estate Medium Galenia Estate - Estate Blend Kadimah Olive Estate Artois Olive Oil Sante Kamerkloof Studtis Estate Kamerkloof Lapithos Family Reserve Lions Creek Karoo Blend EVOO Mardouw Premium Medium Morgenster EVOO Morgenster WW EVOO Namaqua Olives & Olive Oil EVOO (blue tube) Oudewerfskloof Favioso PG Fruit Pai Parakore EVOO Porterville Andante Intenso Rio Largo Black Label Serrado EVOO Tokara Estate EVOO Tokara Premium EVOO Wildekrans Endless EVOO Wildekrans Field Blend EVOO Zoetigheyd Frantoio De Rustica Collection: Coratina De Rustica Estate Intense Mardouw XXV Intense Porterville Andante Forte Rio Largo Premium Willow Creek Directors Reserve EVOOItalian panel Leader Aldo Mazzini commented: I can say that during the competition we found a good percentage of very high-quality oils with complexity, harmony and character. These are oils that I like to compare to the great paintings of the Impressionists: EVOOs with great colours able to arouse emotions and colour the dishes of any table in the world.SA Olive manager Vittoria Jooste commended EVOO producers for achieving the high standards of production that are reflected in the results achieved. Vittoria added that SA Olives Commitment to Compliance (CTC) scheme enables producers to benchmark their newly-harvested EVOOs within a quality framework that is modelled on international standards. Hence for consumers, the CTC seal is an assurance of the quality of local EVOO.The Absa Top 10 Awards will be taking place on 15 October 2021. The qualifiers for the Absa Top 10 are selected from the ranks of the highest-scoring SA Olive Awards medal winners by a team of revered tasters. Click here for the full list of winners , including Silver and Bronze medallists.
The official programme for the upcoming Africa's Travel & Tourism Summit, which takes place from 19-21 September, is now live.

The programme features a mix of information sharing, tactical "how-to" guides and international best practices in this post-pandemic environment. It is targeted at people in the tourism sector, business and leisure product owners, buyers, associations and people who have a general interest in the tourism sector as a whole.On 19 September, the summit will dedicate a day to empower small medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the tourism sector as a precursor to the two-day conference that takes place on 20 and 21 September 2021.The programme is designed to allow hyper-personalisation in the sense that no two guests will have the same programme for the conference, with relevant topics covered throughout the two days. Delegates will have the opportunity to create their own conference and choose topics and activities that most appeal to them on a personal and business level.The "Create your own conference" functionality can only be accessed by registered delegates. To do so, delegates will need to register a profile and submit detailed information about their company on the summits website. Once their profile has been activated, the users will then be able to customise their conference experience based on their personal and business interests.Registered delegates can also take advantage of the Business Matchmaking tool. It will match them with the right delegates for one-on-one sessions based on the information they will have provided when creating a profile, thus creating a great opportunity to connect and share knowledge with fellow industry stakeholders.The topics have been selected to have a strong focus on repositioning Africa, changing the narrative around continental perceptions & reintroducing the continent to the rest of the world. Taken together, all these topics have one message - that Africa is ready for business.There is also a specific focus on women, youth, people living with disabilities and transformation.Delegates will have the option to attend virtually or physically at two identified venues in Johannesburg and Durban, in South Africa, and at another venue in Lagos, Nigeria. All the venues will adhere to strict Covid-19 health and safety protocols.Open to delegates from all countries, this Summit is an invitation to the world to join in as Africa not only gears itself for recovery, but also to share the story of the reawakening of African Tourism.
PR Account Manager

Location: Johannesburg, Bryanston Job level: Mid/Senior Type: Permanent Company: Clockwork

Build rapport with clients and develop strong client relationships,

Manage client expectations

Anticipates and assists in developing solutions to client needs and problems

Manage projects/programmes  including implementation plans, project plans, budgets and deadlines

Develops and draft communication programmes based on team input

Is able to articulate and apply agency vision, goals, practice areas, products and overall capabilities

Develops accurate project budgets and monitors them effectively

Keep their team/s and line manager in the know by appropriately informing them and those involved on the status of all projects/briefs

Uses talents of colleagues in own problem solving

Oversees and directs media campaigns

Has established relationships with print and broadcast journalists

Has strong presentation skills and plays an increasingly active role in new business and client presentations

Routinely contributes to agency growth and performance as project, team, group and agency leader

Efficiently and effectively plans and manages events (e.g., press conferences, media tours, analyst meetings, advocate briefings, etc.)

Understands the creative process and how to work effectively with internal and external creative resources

Has established a circle of industry editorial, investment community, professional and/or third-party group contacts

Provides leadership in building effective, productive account teams.

Shows Initiative and general management

Is familiar with, and supports achievement of, the companys vision and exemplifies the companys values

Delegates effectively

Routinely recommends and implements solutions when problems arise.

Assists peers in problem solving

Participates actively in team, staff and client meetings

Works with business director to identify and address training, leadership and career development needs

Produce media monitoring/reporting for clients singularly or with the assistance of your account manager or senior account executive (if applicable)

It is expected that the SAM is to identify and adequately escalate issues which may arise to their line manager in a timeous manner

An SAM needs to be able to articulate themselves and show etiquette when representing the agency, on the phone, over mail and in person

Respect and time management are very important at Clockwork. If one is not able to attend any meeting, both internal and external, it is expected that the employee would excuse themselves accordingly

Develops their editing skills so that they become capable of directing the written materials of others

Exhibits a sense of curiosity about client work and seeks more information and knowledge in response

Continually seeks new ways to learn, improve and contribute towards the growth of their account and the business

Routinely seeks and shares information with colleagues while looking for new ways to develop their clients brand reputation

Project management tools needs to be fully comprehended

Completes timesheets daily and otherwise acts in accordance with company policies and procedures, and ensures that team does the same

The SAM is required to fully understand the SLA of a given account working towards optimal servicing of the account

Manage billable hours by keeping a recon of time spent to date, in order to manage over & under servicing of the account

The SAM is required to ensure that the account invoicing is processed through a monthly (retainer) or adhoc billing instruction

Develops an awareness of account management issues; flags problems and offers early solutions

All tasks need to be assigned timeously to traffic for internal allocation

Monthly Project plans need to be scheduled for account management

If a report is required from Ops, the SAM needs to know how to undergo pulling and completing job recons, raising and invoicing invoices as per SLA lead times

Company Description

We are looking for a Public Relations Senior Account Manager (SAM) that has the capability of handling a wide range of assignments, projects and/or clients with a high degree of success and independence.The SAM should demonstrate a high-level of professional knowledge, they should be able to manage 1 large account or a few smaller accounts with input and guidance from his/her account director, group account director or business unit director. The SAM must have full understanding of public relations and a demonstrated ability to achieve public relations objectives. The SAM will be the clients day-to-day contact who is able to obtain their trust and confidence.This person should have sufficient project management, media relations, budgeting, mentoring/people management, and business development skillsets. There is an expectation of taking responsibility for the portfolios they manage by providing excellent client service, offering diligence and aiming for profitable growth.It is the SAMs duty to build and mentor the AM/SAE working with them to better deliver all expectations on the account, of the client and of Clockwork Media.We are Clockwork  a globally recognised, independent creative and communications agency with headquarters in Johannesburg and London. Posted on 09 Sep 10:34
Digital Solutions Consultant - Social (Mena)

Remuneration: market-related Location: Remote Job level: Senior Type: Permanent Company: Incubeta

Data Layers

Tracking and Measurement Strategies

Audience Segmentation

Campaign Management and Optimisation,

Media Strategy, Content and Communication Advice

Conversion Optimisation

Advanced Research and Analysis.

Reports to the Lead Consultant.

Closely interacts with MENA MD, other Solution Consultants, Client Services, Project Managers and Global Implementation & Delivery Teams.

Works closely with Platform Partners ie. Facebook / Smartly / Pinterest / Twitter / LinkedIn etc to stay ahead of tech, gain access to betas & conferences etc.

Ability to understand the customer's key business & marketing challenges and translate this as a proposal on how our tech & consulting services can help achieve these goals

External Consultancy towards clients:

Technical and strategic audits, including data-privacy compliance



Map organisational goals to marketing initiatives and design a Measurement framework to track the performance of marketing initiatives



Propose technical solution and roadmap for client's to improve their business goals and process by combining deep tech, product & strategic knowledge.



Act as technical and strategic support during the onboarding phase, as needed



Assist clients to understand and know how to read and interpret their data



Attend client meetings remotely.



Be responsible for the training and enablement of client's and their stakeholders, formulating a development plan that will support the client's transformation to digital maturity.



Drive innovation and spot opportunities to enhance or expand service offerings to clients

Internal Consultancy towards Incubeta (internal teams):

Working closely with MENA commercial teams to support business development



Mentor and guide junior team members on tech implementations and Paid Social best practices.



Quality controls/audits and able to spot where clients accounts have room for improvement and growth

Fluent in spoken and written English

Facebook Blueprint Certified

Experience as a Performance Social Media Buyer for a minimum of 5+ years working within social platforms eg Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin & Pinterest etc. (International exposure is an advantage, but not necessary)

Social Media Buyer for a minimum of 5+ years working within social platforms eg Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin & Pinterest etc. (International exposure is an advantage, but not necessary) Experience with performance media management, yielding results for client's investments

media management, yielding results for client's investments Experience as a social media strategist, planning and executing on x-channel marketing strategies.

Comfortable presenting and pitching for business with strong presentation skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Strategic Thinking - Be able to relate to the client's needs and translate them into workable and innovative solutions.

Google Analytics and advanced data analysis, including attribution reporting

Advanced knowledge of Excel / Google Sheets

Project Management

Experience building and optimising feeds for data-driven projects / and or DPL

Experience working with Facebook Marketing Partners, Example: Smartly or Nannigans to increase investment yield

Experience working with Basic to intermediate knowledge of Javascript and HTML

Knowledge of Digital transformation

3rd Party tracking solutions

Data Studio and dash-building experience

Data Management with some experience with Google Cloud (BQ & ADH)

SEO & Website optimisation

API integrations

Train-the-trainer facilitation

Strong mobile and app experience, including Firebase and AppsFlyer

Exceptional communication skills both written and verbal

Display professional and example behaviour at all times

at all times Specialised knowledge - have worked in a serious, thoughtful and sustained way to master the specialized knowledge needed to succeed in their fields; and that they keep this knowledge up-to-date so that they can continue to deliver the best work possible.

- have worked in a serious, thoughtful and sustained way to master the specialized knowledge needed to succeed in their fields; and that they keep this knowledge up-to-date so that they can continue to deliver the best work possible. Competency - Professionals get the job done. They're reliable, and they keep their promises. If circumstances arise that prevent them from delivering on their promises, they manage expectations up front, and they do their best to make the situation right. Professionals don't make excuses but focus on finding solutions.

- Professionals get the job done. They're reliable, and they keep their promises. If circumstances arise that prevent them from delivering on their promises, they manage expectations up front, and they do their best to make the situation right. Professionals don't make excuses but focus on finding solutions. Solutions-oriented with a growth mindset

with a growth mindset Displays honesty and integrity at all times

at all times Be accountable for their actions even when making mistakes

for their actions even when making mistakes Show respect for the people around them, no matter what their role or situation.

for the people around them, no matter what their role or situation. They exhibit a high degree of emotional intelligence (EI) by considering the emotions and needs of others, and they don't let a bad day impact how they interact with colleagues or clients.

Occasional travel to Dubai may be required based on clients needs.

Incubeta is a growth partner for our clients, offering solutions across media, technology, creative and data that address their challenges and move the needle on their businesses. Our mantra is "We don't sell products/services, we solve business problems"Deepening relationships with existing clients is a key driver for Incubetas growth so it is vital that we are consistently looking for opportunities to deliver further value to clients (in the form of additional services of course) that will bolster their digital marketing activities, ultimately leading to improved business performance.To support this growth strategy, Incubeta MENA is looking for Digital Solutions Consultants who will work alongside the client service team in this region to craft & deliver solutions that will drive business value for our clients.A Digital Solutions Consultant (DSC) is responsible for delivering cutting-edge client solutions for his/her/their respective client portfolios. The DSC is required to apply their extensive media expertise to implement strategic, creative and innovative strategies, aimed at solving complex client business challenges by offering and executing full-stack Google Marketing Platform (GMP), Social Media and Proprietary Technology. The DSC will work in close cooperation with the Lead Consultant, Client Services, Media, Data and Analytics implementation teams, and other stakeholders.The DSC role will form part of the product specialist & consultancy layer within the MENA Market and as a DSC specialising in Paid Performance Social, you will be primarily responsible for determining the technical scope of new and existing business opportunities and providing digital strategies, marketing, and technology consulting services across Paid Social in order to transform and increase the success of our existing and future customers, primarily leveraging Facebook Business Manager, Smartly, Twitter Ads, Linkedin etc strategies and how they integrate into the Google Marketing Stack (GMP).You will assist our kin improving their business processes by combining your knowledge to create best-in-class solutions. You will collaborate closely with paired Subject-Matter Experts (SME's) and with cross-functional teams, such as Sales, Implementation and Client Services to drive customer communications, feature priority, and technical issue resolution, resulting in the best possible customer experience, while scaling our clients growth and digital maturity.At its core, a Digital Solutions Consultant requires knowledge of:While remaining current on global market trends, data privacy, product updates and innovative media strategies.The Solutions consultant will also assist (when required) the sales team with the commercial structures, product consultancy and technical advice. They will be responsible for delivering frameworks and strategies that will enhance client network, workflows and business results.If you believe you fit the criteria for this role, please email your CV together with your cover letter Natasha at talentsa@incubeta.com.Take note that if you do not receive feedback on your application within two weeks of submission, your application has been unsuccessful.Posted on 09 Sep 14:09
NEWLY RELEASED DOCUMENTS provide details of U.S.-funded research on several types of coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. The Intercept has obtained more than 900 pages of documents detailing the work of EcoHealth Alliance, a U.S.-based health organization that used federal money to fund bat coronavirus research at the Chinese laboratory. The trove of documents includes two previously unpublished grant proposals that were funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, as well as project updates relating to EcoHealth Alliances research, which has been scrutinized amid increased interest in the origins of the pandemic. The documents were released in connection with ongoing Freedom of Information Act litigation by The Intercept against the National Institutes of Health. The Intercept is making the full documents available to the public. This is a road map to the high-risk research that could have led to the current pandemic, said Gary Ruskin, executive director of U.S. Right To Know, a group that has been investigating the origins of Covid-19. One of the grants, titled Understanding the Risk of Bat Coronavirus Emergence, outlines an ambitious effort led by EcoHealth Alliance President Peter Daszak to screen thousands of bat samples for novel coronaviruses. The research also involved screening people who work with live animals. The documents contain several critical details about the research in Wuhan, including the fact that key experimental work with humanized mice was conducted at a biosafety level 3 lab at Wuhan University Center for Animal Experiment  and not at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, as was previously assumed. The documents raise additional questions about the theory that the pandemic may have begun in a lab accident, an idea that Daszak has aggressively dismissed.

The bat coronavirus grant provided EcoHealth Alliance with a total of $3.1 million, including $599,000 that the Wuhan Institute of Virology used in part to identify and alter bat coronaviruses likely to infect humans. Even before the pandemic, many scientists were concerned about the potential dangers associated with such experiments. The grant proposal acknowledges some of those dangers: Fieldwork involves the highest risk of exposure to SARS or other CoVs, while working in caves with high bat density overhead and the potential for fecal dust to be inhaled. Alina Chan, a molecular biologist at the Broad Institute, said the documents show that EcoHealth Alliance has reason to take the lab-leak theory seriously. In this proposal, they actually point out that they know how risky this work is. They keep talking about people potentially getting bitten  and they kept records of everyone who got bitten, Chan said. Does EcoHealth have those records? And if not, how can they possibly rule out a research-related accident? According to Richard Ebright, a molecular biologist at Rutgers University, the documents contain critical information about the research done in Wuhan, including about the creation of novel viruses. The viruses they constructed were tested for their ability to infect mice that were engineered to display human type receptors on their cell, Ebright wrote to The Intercept after reviewing the documents. Ebright also said the documents make it clear that two different types of novel coronaviruses were able to infect humanized mice. While they were working on SARS-related coronavirus, they were carrying out a parallel project at the same time on MERS-related coronavirus, Ebright said, referring to the virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome.
The ignominious US withdrawal from Afghanistan has blown a global hole in the post-1945 American Century system of elaborate world domination, a power vacuum that likely will lead to irreversible consequences. The immediate case in point is whether Bidens Washington strategistsas he clearly makes no policyhave already managed to lose the support of its largest arms buyer and regional strategic ally, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since the first days of Bidens inauguration in late January, US policies are driving the Saudi monarchy to pursue a dramatic shift in foreign policy. The longer-term consequences could be enormous.

Within their first week in office the Biden Administration indicated a dramatic shift in US-Saudi relations. It announced a freeze in arms sales to the Kingdom as it reviewed the Trump arms deals. Then in late February US intelligence issued a report condemning the Saudi government for the killing of Saudi Washington Post journalist Adnan Khashoggi in Istanbul in October, 2018, something the Trump Administration refused to do. That was joined by Washingtons lifting the anti-Saudi Yemeni Houthi leadership from the US terrorist list while ending US military support to Saudi Arabia in its Yemen war with Iran-backed Houthi forces, a move that emboldened the Houthis to pursue missile and drone attacks on Saudi targets.

Post-911 Pentagon Policy

While Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has so far been careful to avoid a rupture with Washington, the motion of his feet since the Biden regime shift in January has been significant. At the center is a series of secret negotiations with former arch-enemy Iran, and its new President. Talks began in April in Baghdad between Riyadh and Teheran to explore a possible rapprochement.

Washington geopolitical strategy for the past two decades has been to fire up the conflicts and bring the entire Middle East into chaos as part of a doctrine first endorsed by Cheney and Rumsfeld after September 11, 2001, sometimes referred to by the George W. Bush Administration as the Greater Middle East. It was formulated by the late US Admiral Arthur Cebrowski of Rumsfelds post-911 Pentagon Office of Force Transformation. Cebrowskis assistant, Thomas Barnett , described the new strategy of deliberate chaos in his 2004 book, The Pentagons New Map : War and Peace in the Twenty-first Century, just after the unprovoked US invasion of Iraq. Recall that no one ever found evidence of Saddams Weapons of Mass Destruction.

Barnett was a professor at the US Naval War College and later strategist for the Israeli Wikistrat consultancy. As he described it, the entire national boundaries of the post-Ottoman Middle East carved out by the Europeans after World War I, including Afghanistan were to be dissolved, and present states balkanized into Sunni, Kurd, Shiite, and other ethnic or religious entities to ensure decades of chaos and instability requiring a strong US military presence to control. That became the two decades of US catastrophic occupation in Afghanistan and Iraq and beyond. It was deliberate chaos. Secretary of State Condi Rice said in 2006 that the Greater Middle East aka New Middle East would be achieved through constructive chaos. Because of a huge backlash from Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region the name was buried, but the chaos strategy remains.

The Obama Arab Spring Color Revolutions, which were launched in December 2010 with the CIA and Clinton State Department destabilizations of Tunisia, Egypt and Libya by US-backed networks of the Muslim Brotherhood, were further implementation of the new US policy of chaos and destabilization. The proxy US invasion of Syria then followed, as did Yemen with the covertly US-backed Houthi revolution against Yemen President Ali Abdullah Saleh in 2012.

The ongoing Teheran vs Riyadh conflict has its roots in that Cebrowski-Barnett Pentagon-CIA strategy. It marked and fed the split between pro-Muslim Brotherhood Qatar and anti-Brotherhood Riyadh in 2016, after which Qatar sought support from Iran and Turkey. It has marked the bitter proxy war in Syria between forces backed by Saudi Arabia against forces backed by Iran. It has marked the Saudi vs Teheran proxy war in Yemen, and the political stalemate in Lebanon. Now the Saudi regime under MBS appears to be embarking on a major turn away from that Shiite-Sunni war for domination of the Islamic world by pursuing peace with its foes including Iran.

Teheran is key

Under the Trump Administration, policy shifted from an apparent US backing of Iran under Obama with the 2015 nuclear JCPOA, and to the disadvantage of Saudis and Israel, over to a one-sided Trump-Kushner backing for Saudi Arabia and Israel, exiting the JCPOA, and imposing draconian economic sanctions on Teheran and other moves last embodied in the ill-conceived Abraham Accords aimed against Teheran.

MBS and the Saudis are clearly reading the handwriting on the wall from Washington and are moving to defuse multiple zones of conflict which had led it down a US-scripted dead end. Washington under Trump had fed MBS with arms galore (paid for with Saudi petrodollars) to fuel the conflicts. It has been a catastrophe for the Saudis. Now as it became clear that a Biden Administration also means no good for them, MBS and the Saudis have begun a strategic pivot towards ending all its conflicts within the Islamic world. The key to it all is Iran.

Back-channel talks

In April the Saudis began the first of what now have been three bilateral negotiations on stabilizing their relations with Iran, back-channel secret talks first in Iraq, then Oman. Baghdad has a major stake in such a peace as US policy in Iraq since 2003 has been to create chaos by pitting a majority Shiite against a 30% minority Sunni to sow civil war. In July Prime Minister al Kadhimi secured a Biden pledge to end US troop presence by year-end.

The Teheran-Riyadh back-channel talks reportedly involve Irans stance towards Washington under Biden Pentagon policies, as well as Irans willingness to de-escalate military presence in Syria and Yemen and Lebanon. Indirect talks between the US and Iran about a return to the 2015 nuclear deal were suspended after the Iranian elections in June. Iran also announced it was stepping up uranium enrichment.

The Saudi-Iran talks have included high-level persons from both sides, including Saudi chief of General Intelligence Directorate Khalid al-Humaidan and Iranian Deputy Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council , Saeed Iravani. Ongoing protests inside Iran over the economic costs of deployment of troops and aid to groups such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria and Houthis in Yemen, are reportedly growing. This, at a time economic hardships caused by the US sanctions are severe, creates a strong incentive for Teheran to eventually compromise in a rapprochement with Riyadh. If it happens it will be a huge blow for US regional chaos strategy.

While no agreement is yet at hand, a fourth talk has just been announced which indicates a will to forge a compromise as soon as the government of newly-elected Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is approved by the Majlis or parliament. A deal will not be easy, but both sides realize the status quo is a lose-lose proposition.

At the same time Iran under Raisi is playing hardball with Biden negotiators. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is reportedly demanding that the Biden administration lift all sanctions on Iran and compensate it for the damage they caused, and have Iran recognized as a nuclear threshold state with the ability to produce a nuclear bomb within a short time. The US sanctions imposed in 2018 have caused a 250% annual rise in food prices and a free fall in the currency as oil revenues have plunged. Raisi is under enormous domestic pressure to change this, though Bidens Washington to date refuses to lift sanctions as precondition to resuming JCPOA talks.

For Teheran the question is whether it is better to trust a rapprochement with the Saudi-led Arab Sunni Gulf states, or rely on Washington whose track record of broken promises is underscored by their catastrophic exit from Kabul.

Most recently Teheran has mended relations with the Afghan Taliban and US military equipment from Afghanistan taken by Taliban reportedly has been seen in Iran, suggesting a close Iran-Afghan cooperation that further works against Washington. At the same time Iran has agreed a $400 billion, 25-year economic strategic cooperation with China. However so far Beijing is apparently being cautious not to challenge US sanctions in any major way and is also pursuing closer ties with Saudi Arabia, Gulf Arab states as well as Israel. A Saudi-Iran rapprochement would further ease pressures on Iran.

The dramatic collapse of US presence in Afghanistan gives all parties a clear idea that, regardless of who is US President, US institutional powers behind the scenes pursue an agenda of destruction, and can no longer be relied on to be true to their promises of support.

The implications of a genuine Saudi-Iran agreement would be a major pivot in geopolitical terms. In addition to ending the Yemen war and the proxy Syrian war, it could end the destructive stalemate in Lebanon between Iran-backed Hezbollah and major Saudi interests there. Here is where the recent arms talks between Riyadh and Moscow become more than interesting.

Russias pivotal role

Into this geopolitical cocktail of competing interests, the role of Russia becomes strategic. Russia is the one major foreign military power that has aimed at ending the Sunni-Shiite proxy wars and creating stability across Eurasia into the Middle East, a direct challenge to Washingtons Cebrowski-Barnett strategy of deliberate instability and chaos.

In April this year Russian President Vladimir Putin and a delegation of business leaders made a rare visit to Riyadh, the first by Putin in 12 years. It was billed as an energy partnership meeting, but clearly was far more. Deals worth $2 billion were reported with agreements covering oil, space and satellite navigation, health, mineral resources, tourism and aviation. Both countries agreed to cooperate to stabilize oil prices, a major step. Putin and MBS stressed that oil and natural gas would continue to play a major role for years to come, a slap in the face of the Davos Great Reset green agenda. Russias RDIF Sovereign Wealth Fund also opened its first foreign office in Riyadh.

Taken alone it was interesting, but the fact it has been followed four months later by a visit by Saudi Arabias Vice Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman to Russia to the annual International Military Technical Forum (ARMY 2021) near Moscow, gives new significance to growing Saudi-Russian ties as well at a time Biden & Co. are recalibrating US-Saudi ties as the State Department put it, whatever that means. Khalid tweeted, I signed an agreement with the Russian Deputy Minister of Defense Colonel General Alexander Fomin between the Kingdom and the Russian Federation aimed at developing joint military cooperation between the two countries. Bin Salman also added, Met with Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu to explore ways to strengthen the military and defense cooperation and discussed our common endeavor to preserve stability and security in the region. Notably, Russia has conducted joint military exercises with Iran for the past several years and is also well suited to foster a Saudi-Iran detente.

The Moscow talks came only weeks after the Pentagon and Biden Administration announced it was removing eight Patriot anti-missile systems from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Kuwait, and Iraq, as well as removing a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system from the Saudi Kingdom, and accelerating the withdrawal of US troops from the region, moves that hardly boost confidence in Washington as protector of Saudi Arabia. The worlds finest anti-missile defense technology, the S-400 air defense system, happens to be made in Russia, as do a broad array of other military equipment.

All these moves by the Saudis are clearly not going to lead to an overnight break with Washington. But clear is that the Saudi monarchy has understood, especially in the wake of the abrupt Biden abandonment of Afghanistan to the Taliban, that continued dependence on a US security umbrella it has enjoyed since the 1970s oil shocks, is a fading illusion. MBS clearly realizes that he has been played by both Trump and now Biden. The tectonic plates of Middle East and Eurasian geopolitics are shifting and the implications are staggering.

F. William Engdahl is strategic risk consultant and lecturer, he holds a degree in politics from Princeton University and is a best-selling author on oil and geopolitics, exclusively for the online magazine New Eastern Outlook
Civil liberties in Australia are on the verge of extinction, thanks to the government's response to the COVID crisis. What has been heralded as a triumph of science and quick responses has drifted towards something far more totalitarian that imposes its will on the country's citizens, restricting them from living their lives, much less enjoying supposedly guaranteed liberties.

Change has been a constant in response to this pandemic. But in countries considered to be part of the "free world," some balancing has been put in place to contain the spread of the virus while preventing citizens from being subjected to extreme measures usually only deployed by dictators.

Australia has proven particularly resilient. But while people here in the US have entertained thoughts of kidnapping governors in response to minimal restrictions on social interactions and shopping, the residents of Australia have endured severe restrictions that seemingly only get more severe as time goes on.

This is the exchange of liberty for safety -- an exchange that's been made involuntary by government officials. The arrival of the Delta variant has again complicated matters. And already severe restrictions are becoming draconian, thanks to the government of Australia believing there's no involuntary sacrifice residents won't make to keep COVID infections to a minimum

Conor Friedersdorf has compiled a compendium of Australia's latest COVID prevention efforts -- many of which haven't been seen in countries that aren't being run by Supreme Leaders or Presidents-for-life.

Australias borders are currently closed and international travel from Australia remains strictly controlled to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, a government website declares. International travel from Australia is only available if you are exempt or you have been granted an individual exemption. The rule is enforced despite assurances on another government website, dedicated to setting forth Australias human-rights-treaty obligations, that the freedom to leave a country cannot be made dependent on establishing a purpose or reason for leaving.

Australian courts have, so far, sided with the government and its increasing encroachment on civil liberties and personal freedoms. They have found that the government's needs outweigh the complaints of the governed in these COVID times, under the assumption these extreme measures are not only justified, but temporary.

But it's not just travel in and out of Australia that has been restricted. Travel within the country has been affected by COVID policies, turning a cohesive nation of states into separate territories whose boundaries are enforced with "papers, please" demands from people trying to do nothing more than move freely within the borders of their homeland.

Moving around one's own city or town is being restricted as well, enforced by a government-owned-and-operated app.

[T]he government of South Australia, one of the countrys six states, developed and is now testing an app as Orwellian as any in the free world to enforce its quarantine rules. Returning travelers quarantining at home will be forced to download an app that combines facial recognition and geolocation. The state will text them at random times, and thereafter they will have 15 minutes to take a picture of their face in the location where they are supposed to be. Should they fail, the local police department will be sent to follow up in person.

While not technically a crime, the involvement of law enforcement makes existing within the confines of a single town -- but not abiding by quarantine requirements -- something indistinguishable from criminal activity. It's not just law enforcement in the mix in Australia, though. It's also the military, which has been sent to places the government feels contains too many citizens unwilling to stay under the government's thumb.

Australia has deployed hundreds of soldiers to Sydney to help enforce a Covid lockdown. A Delta outbreak which began in June has produced nearly 3,000 infections and led to nine deaths. Australian Defence Force soldiers will undergo training on the weekend before beginning unarmed patrols on Monday.

In COVID-era Australia, those who refuse to respect the constantly shifting, tending-towards-totalitarianism policies will be greeted with a show of (possibly unarmed) force by local cops and the government's military.

Soldiers will join police in virus hotspots to ensure people are following the rules, which include a 10km (6.2 miles) travel limit. State Police Minister David Elliott said it would help because a small minority of Sydneysiders thought "the rules didn't apply to them".

All of this is already concerning. But beneath the policies imposed out of supposed concern for the public's safety runs an unhealthy undercurrent. Once countries put drastic measures in place in response to unexpected threats to public wellbeing, they're rarely eager to roll them back once the crisis has passed, or even lessened.

What remains to be seen is whether Australia can maintain that performance without permanently ending core attributes of life in a liberal democracy, including freedom of movement, peaceable assembly, and basic privacy.

If the government likes its new powers, and its ability to keep its citizens contained, it may decide the crisis has no definite end in sight. And with the virus continuing to mutate (as all viruses do), these severe, but temporary, precautions and restrictions may become permanent -- allies in the government's never-ending War on COVID.
Zodiac Killers

Zodiac Maritime is a worldwide shipping conglomerate owned and operated by the Ofer family. Brothers Eyal and Idan Ofer are Israels third and ninth richest billionaires, respectively, having taken over the business from their father, Sammy. The company also has a long history of working alongside the Israeli government on special operations.

Defying American sanctions, for years, Zodiac ships continued to trade with the Islamic Republic, docking regularly in Iranian ports. By the time of Sammys death in 2011, the U.S. government was investigating the firm and the Treasury Department had announced sanctions against it for supposedly helping Iran skirt round the American-imposed blockade.

Why such a well-established Israeli firm would breach sanctions and collaborate with an enemy state in Iran also mystified many Israeli officials, who launched their own inquiry. However, the government hearing on the affair was abruptly shut down after the chair was passed a note by a very high-ranking security official  that official rumored to have been Mossad Director Tamir Pardo. As soon as Committee Chairman Carmel Shama read the message, he immediately ordered all press to leave the meeting and finished the event behind closed doors. Lets just be clear: the note is not from a political figure and not from a business figure. It turns out that reality is much more complex, much more complicated and touchy than the average imagination can handle, Shama offered as an explanation. The reaction from both the Knesset and the United States government suggests that this agreement was extremely secret indeed, with operations going on behind both of their backs.

The news, which Israeli media had christened OferGate, was immediately dropped and glossed over, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting that the elderly Sammy Ofer, who died the same week, was a Zionist through and through. Meir Dagan, who had recently retired as director of Mossad, concurred, stating that the case had been blown out of proportion, and hinted that the Ofer family may have actually been acting in the service of the state.

Among such known missions are Zodiac Maritime cargo ships with modified hulls being used to ferry Israeli Black Hawk helicopters to Iran, where they were used by elite commando teams in reconnaissance missions against the Islamic Republics alleged nuclear programs. Zodiac Maritimes business relationship with Iranian ports and shipping companies was crucial to this endeavor, providing both the cover and the means to enter Iranian waters without attracting suspicion.

The year before OferGate blew up in Israeli media, the billionaire clans boats were used in a successful assassination mission against Palestinian leader Mahmoud al-Mabhouh. Mossad killed the Hamas official, responsible for procurement of weapons, in his Dubai hotel room, causing a worldwide outrage. Secret agents traveled to the United Arab Emirates on Ofers ships, posing as workers and using forged foreign passports. Reports suggest that al-Mabhouh was drugged, electrocuted and suffocated with a pillow in his room, with some operatives escaping on the same ship they arrived on.

Although successful, the mission did not go as smoothly as planned, as Emirati police were able to identify a number of the perpetrators. Australia, the United Kingdom and Ireland expelled Israeli diplomats in protest at Mossads use of faked passports from their countries as cover for the operation.

Going further back, in 1988, elite Israeli forces, under the command of future Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Moshe Yaalon, used modified cargo ships to smuggle soldiers and helicopters into Tunisia, where they stormed into Tunis and killed Deputy Leader of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) Khalil al-Wazir, before returning to the ship and making a hasty retreat.

The long history of Zodiac Maritime and other Israeli civilian shipping companies aiding the government in acts of international terrorism raises the question whether perhaps Iranian intelligence suspected something about the Mercer Street that is not publicly known. The vessel was travelling from Africa to the United Arab Emirates, and, when hit, was about to enter the Gulf of Oman  the narrow maritime passage between the Arabian peninsula and Iran. There was reportedly no cargo on board.

Yet any possibility of clandestine activities has been overlooked by corporate media when reporting on the Mercer Street attack. Instead, all such outlets preferred to echo Western governments framing of the events as an unacceptable and outrageous attack on commercial shipping, in the words of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The British connection

The 28,400 ton vessel was attacked by drones on July 29 and July 30. The two casualties reported are an unidentified Romanian worker and Adrian Underwood, a soldier with a long and distinguished record in the British army. Underwood had recently joined private security group Ambrey.

Based in the provincial English city of Hereford, Ambrey boasts that its 600 operatives work in over 20 countries worldwide, providing security and training services around the globe. Hereford is also the headquarters of the SAS, Britains most elite fighting force. Because of the SAS, the city of barely 60,000 people has become arguably the worldwide center for mercenaries, a recent report noting that no fewer than 14 private military and security companies are based there. Ambrey itself has deep connections to the British armed forces, with most of its directors serving long tours of duty in its ranks.

The United Kingdom has close links with the Israeli national security state, supplying the IDF with over $500 million worth of weapons since 2015, much of this being aircraft or high tech machinery. British units provide training to their Israeli counterparts and there is even a small British force stationed inside the Jewish state. The U.K. and Israel now conduct joint war games as well as share intelligence. As Declassified UK noted, the United Kingdom also plays a crucial role in maintaining Israeli nuclear weapons, supplying submarine components that maintain the countrys nuclear capabilities.

Israel also enjoys significant influence in the U.K., selling weapons and funding political groups. Indeed, a recent investigation found that one third of the British cabinet, including Prime Minister Johnson, have been directly financed by Israel or pro-Israli lobby groups. Earlier this year, former Conservative Minister Alan Duncan claimed that he was blocked from being appointed Middle East Minister by Israeli pressure groups for no other reason than that I believe in the rights of the Palestinians. The Israelis think they control the Foreign Office. And they do! he added  a statement that goes beyond even the wildest remarks of Labor politicians accused of anti-Semitism.

Zodiac Maritime and the Ofer family also have close connections with Great Britain. Sammy Ofer himself served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War. And although Zodiac Maritime is legally based in Monaco, its day-to-day operations are run from London, with much of its fleet registered in Britain. Ofer donated substantial sums to British institutions, giving 20 million (around $27 million) to the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich in East London and 3.3 million (~ $4.5 million) to restore the historic ship Cutty Sark. There is now an entire wing of the National Maritime Museum named in his honor. In 2008, he was awarded the title of Honorary Knight of the British Empire. Ofers sons Eyal and Idan also reside in London, and both have continued their fathers tradition of giving ostentatiously to local art and cultural institutions.

Anatomy of an attack

Although the Mercer Street is operated by Zodiac Maritime, it is actually owned by a subsidiary of the Japanese shipping conglomerate Nippon Yusen Group. And despite Zodiac being an Israeli-owned and controlled company, it is, as previously noted, headquartered in London and technically registered as a Monaco-based operation. On top of all this, the Mercer Street flies a Liberian flag, as around one in ten big ships do. Such is the tax-avoiding world of international big business.

Built in 2013, the Mercer Street sailed throughout Africa, Europe and Asia. It was hit by a sustained attack from suicide drones on the evening of July 29 and the morning of July 30. In addition to the two human fatalities, the ship suffered considerable damage to its bridge, rendering it out of action. Zodiac Maritime refused to answer questions about the extent of the damage, reveal the identity of the Romanian individual killed, or confirm or deny its relationship with the Israeli government when asked by MintPress.

Responding to distress calls, the U.S. Navy sped to the ship, the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Ronald Reagan escorting it to a safe port. U.S. Central Command conducted an investigation into the affair, concluding that three UAV drones were used in the attack, and that military-grade explosives were used to blast a 6-foot hole in the topside of the pilot house, badly damaging its interior as well. Meanwhile, Britain immediately flew a team of 40 SAS commandos to eastern Yemen, acting on the theory that Iranian-supported Houthi rebels could have been behind the attack. That the United States and United Kingdom were so quick to act raises questions about how closely they are coordinating with each other and against Iran.

The U.S. and Israel both blamed Iran for the incident. Upon review of the available information, we are confident that Iran conducted this attack, said Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. We are working with our partners to consider our next steps and consulting with governments inside the region and beyond on an appropriate response, which will be forthcoming.

Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett was even more confident  and belligerent. I determine, with absolute certainty, Iran carried out the attack against the ship, he stated. The intelligence evidence for this exists and we expect the international community will make it clear to the Iranian regime that they have made a serious mistake We know how to send a message to Iran in our own way, he added.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, at the Cabinet meeting today:

"The world recently received a reminder of Iranian aggression, this time on the high seas. The Iranians, who attacked the ship 'Mercer Street' with UAVs, intended to attack an Israeli target.https://t.co/g0BpFHJKEy pic.twitter.com/Tj3zkqkBm3  PM of Israel (@IsraeliPM) August 1, 2021

Iran, for its part, has rejected the accusations. Regarding the politically motivated statements made by the United States and the United Kingdom in this meeting against Iran concerning the Mercer Street vessel incident, I reiterate, once again, our firm rejection of these unsubstantiated allegations, said Zahra Ershadi, Irans ambassador to the United Nations, who stressed that the Islamic Republic of Iran is highly interested in, and attaches great importance to, maritime security.

Tit-for-Tat spats

This is, however, far from the first time Iran has been linked with attacks on Israeli vessels. Indeed, earlier that month, a UAE-bound ship in the Strait of Hormuz, previously owned by Zodiac Maritime, was hit, with Israeli officials pointing the finger at Iran. The Times of Israel speculated that the incident could have been a response to an Israeli attack on an Iranian centrifuge production site in June.

Israeli-owned ships have also come under fire in April, March, and February of this year, each time Jerusalem suspecting Iran. The last of these, the attack on the MV Helios Ray, damaged its hull. Ambrey operatives were also providing security for that ship. This was indeed an operation by Iran. That is clear, Netanyahu told the press at the time. Iran also denies responsibility for these attacks. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh stated that Netanyahu suffered from Iranophobia and suggested that he was using the incidents as a distraction to Israels domestic problems.

However, few seem to believe that Iran is entirely guilt free. National security blogger Richard Silverstein described the Mercer Street incident as Iran repaying Zodiac Maritime in kind for its role in helping the Israeli military. President Raisi seems intent on conveying a strong message: whatever you may have thought of [former President Hassan] Rouhani, he was a walk in the park compared to what I will be, Silverstein wrote.

Receiving less press attention, Israel has also been carrying out a campaign against Iranian ships, targeting at least 12 Syria-bound vessels, most of them carrying Iranian oil. One such attack earlier this year backfired heavily on Israel, however. IDF commandos successfully attached a mine on an Iraninan oil tanker in the Mediterranean. But the resulting blast led to over 1,000 tons of oil leaking into the sea and washing up on Israeli beaches, causing the worst ecological disaster in the countrys history. Animals and coastal areas were covered in oil, forcing the government to close Israeli beaches for weeks afterward, as thousands of people worked to clean up the spill.

In April, Iranian military ship MV Saviz was attacked in the Red Sea. Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz stopped short of claiming responsibility, but stated that Israel must continue to defend itself, adding that, Any place we find an operational challenge and necessity, we will continue to act. But officials in Gantzs government reportedly privately confirmed to the U.S. that it was indeed responsible for the attack. An Iranian military vessel also mysteriously caught fire and sank in early June of this year.

Israel has also carried out numerous attacks on the Iranian nuclear program, the most notable of which was perhaps the assassination of top scientist Moshen Fakhrizadeh last November. While traveling between a meeting and a university lecture in Tehran, Fakhrizadeh was gunned down, with many reports suggesting that a remotely operated gun mounted on a truck was responsible. Former Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen strongly hinted his agency was involved in the killing.

Iran is currently in negotiations with the United States about a redesigned nuclear deal, something that Israel strongly opposes. In 2018, President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from Barack Obamas nuclear deal, but later tried to convince other nations to sanction Iran based on the Islamic Republics non-adherence to the agreement he had personally scuppered. The recent series of attacks have done nothing to help the prospect of a long-term accord being reached.

American sanctions have already inflicted serious hardship on Iran, sending the prices of consumer goods soaring and the value of its currency, the rial, plummeting. Oil production has sputtered, as the country can find few buyers for its primary national export. The price of food has also become a serious issue for many. The sanctions deliberately target ordinary Iranians, women and children, Seyed Mohammad Marandi, Professor of English Literature at the University of Tehran, told MintPress last year. They are designed to kill hospital patients and to create poverty. They have had partial success.

The assault on the Mercer Street provokes many questions. If Iran did indeed attack the ship, why did it do so? Did they suspect or know anything about what was on board? Or was this simply another episode in the tit-for-tat spat that has been escalating between the two countries for years? How closely does Zodiac Maritime work with the Israeli security services? What is the role of the British mercenary group in all this? And to what extent does Israel work with the U.S. and U.K. on these issues? As with so much in the world of espionage, the truth rarely comes out quickly, if at all.

Editors note | Additional support and research for this article were provided by MintPress News staffer, Lowkey.

Alan MacLeod is Senior Staff Writer for MintPress News. After completing his PhD in 2017 he published two books: Bad News From Venezuela: Twenty Years of Fake News and Misreporting and Propaganda in the Information Age: Still Manufacturing Consent, as well as a number of academic articles. He has also contributed to FAIR.org, The Guardian, Salon, The Grayzone, Jacobin Magazine, and Common Dreams.
The latest updates on the new normal  chronicling the lies, distortions, and abuses by the ruling class.

The Big Lie: Ivermectin=Horse Paste

Why, sometimes Ive believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.

-Alice in Wonderland

Corporate Media Propaganda:

Reality:

Human ivermectin tablets for human consumption  not a paste, nor for horses

The sage wisdom of Warlord Fauci/CNN/Pfizer:

What do you want that effective antibiotic for? Its for horses, silly

Why do you need that oxygen, idiot? Horses breathe air

What do you need with that stupid spinal cord? Horses have spinal cords

What the Actual Clinical Data Says About Ivermectin as a COVID-19 Therapeutic

A January 2021 study by the American College of Chest Physicians  one which will never see the light of day in the New York Times or in a Snopes fact-check  assessed the clinical effectiveness of ivermectin treatment in seriously ill patients:

Two hundred eighty patients, 173 treated with ivermectin and 107 without ivermectin, were reviewed Mortality was significantly lower in the ivermectin group (13.3% vs 24.5% ; OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.22-0.99; P < .05), an 11.2% (95% CI, 0.38%-22.1%) absolute risk reduction, with a number needed to treat of 8.9 (95% CI, 4.5-263).

TL;DR: The research team, to boil it down to stupid-simple brass tacks for the scientifically illiterate goons at CNN, interpreted the results without all the hard-to-grasp statistics:

 Ivermectin treatment was associated with lower mortality during treatment of COVID-19 , especially in patients with severe pulmonary involvement.

A randomized, controlled 2020 Egyptian study suggested ivermectin may exert protective benefits against ever developing COVID-19 when administered as a preventative measure:

Among 203 asymptomatic close family contacts who received ivermectin, only 15 (7.4%) were noticed to develop the infection . While, in 101 contacts who didnt use ivermectin, 59 (58.4%) developed the disease .

Some researchers speculate that, in parts of Africa  where ivermectin supplementation is routine as a malaria prophylactic  its use may explain those regions relatively low COVID-19 mortality rates:

The morbidity and mortality in the onchocerciasis endemic countries are lesser than those in the non-endemic ones. The community-directed onchocerciasis treatment with ivermectin is the most reasonable explanation for the decrease in morbidity and fatality rate in Africa . In areas where ivermectin is distributed to and used by the entire population, it leads to a significant reduction in mortality.

Studies like the ones above are legion. So why is CNN et al. so insistent on demonizing this potentially life-saving therapeutic?

Big Pharma Refuses to Fund Ivermectin Research

Via The Japanese Journal of Antibiotics:

As of the 27th of February 2021, the results of 42 clinical studies worldwide have undergone meta-analysis and concluded that ivermectin is effective in the treatment and prevention of COVID-19

 Kitasato University , based on the judgment that it is necessary to examine the clinical effect of ivermectin to prevent the spread of uncertain COVID-19, asked Merck & Co., Inc. to conduct clinical trials of ivermectin for COVID-19 in Japan However, the company said that it had no intention of conducting clinical trials ..

How the Study-Funding, Research-Rigging Racket Works

Obviously, the above-cited research begs for a harder look.

The roadblock:

Research perceived to likely show results that are favorable to Big Pharmas interests (in the COVID context, those that support the efficacy/safety of mRNA vaccines) gets funded

Research of limited perceived financial value (ivermectin, which produces lower profits) doesnt

Joe Rogan Self-Medicates With Ivermectin, Corporate Media Unleashes the Hen-Pecking

Via Hollywood Reporter:

 Joe Rogan on Wednesday posted a video to social media in which he revealed that he has COVID-19. The comic and popular podcast host said he took Ivermectin, a dewormer meant for horses that the CDC says is not authorized or approved by FDA for prevention or treatment of COVID-19

Ivermectin has been falsely touted by some anti-vaxxers as an alternative to getting a COVID-19 jab.

See how that works? A truly safe, effective, accessible therapeutic is conflated with anti-vaxxers and horses. Therefore, by fiat, its anti-science.

Although he is among the most prominent example, Joe Rogan is by no means alone. The media is eager to pounce and vilify any figure with significant clout to deter the popular use of ivermectin as a COVID treatment.

The Big Lie (Contd)

The corporate media recently went apoplectic over a provably false, now-redacted Rolling Stone report of hospitalized patients who allegedly overdosed on ivermectin:

The rise in people using ivermectin , an anti-parasitic drug usually reserved for deworming horses or livestock, as a treatment or preventative for Covid-19 has emergency rooms so backed up that gunshot victims were having hard times getting access to health facilities , an emergency room doctor in Oklahoma said.  This week, Dr. Jason McElyea told KFOR the overdoses are causing backlogs in rural hospitals , leaving both beds and ambulance services scarce.

That all sounds super scary. If true, some public health intervention might be in order. The issue, though, is that none of it is true; the lone doctors account (the sole source used in the piece) was a lie fabricated out of thin air  a convenient one for the anti-ivermectin, anti-science narrative that got picked up in the corporate press by all the usual suspects and relentlessly parroted as fact.

Via Northeastern Health System, the hospital group in question:

Although Dr. Jason McElyea is not an employee of NHS Sequoyah, he is affiliated with a medical staffing group that provides coverage for our emergency room McElyea has not worked at our Sallisaw location in over 2 months. NHS Sequoyah has not treated any patients due to complications related to taking ivermectin. This includes not treating any patients for ivermectin overdose .

Whats the Real Motivation Behind Anti-Ivermectin Rhetoric?

Via Yahoo! News:

A a time of a global crisis, when vaccination rates are slumping in the face of a relentless virus, [ivermectin] research is being used to give desperate people false, and potentially dangerous, hope about the miraculous properties of a drug proven only to help kill parasites.

The thing that really worries me is its being explicitly used as an alternative to vaccines by some people , [ivermectin critic Kyle] Sheldrick said.

Profits over people, narrative over science = the eternal, overarching dogma of the biomedical corporate state.

Ben Bartee is a Bangkok-based American journalist with opposable thumbs. Follow his stuff via his blog, Armageddon Prose, Substack, or Patreon.
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Kaley Cuoco has asked a court to deny Karl Cook spousal support.

The 'Flight Attendant' star filed for divorce from the equestrian on Friday (03.09.21) and in the documents she filed to Los Angeles Superior Court, she requested they separate their property, with the 35-year-old actress wanting to keep "miscellaneous jewellery and other personal effects" as well as her "earnings and accumulations ... before marriage, during marriage and from after the date of Separation."

The documents noted: "There are additional separate property assets and obligations of each party as mandated by the parties' Prenuptial Agreement."

Kaley asked the court to terminate its ability to award either her or Karl spousal support and requested they each be responsible for their own legal fees.

News of the court requests are unlikely to come as a surprise because it was previously reported the former 'Big Bang Theory' actress had an "ironclad prenup in place" before marrying Karl, 30.

A source noted: "Her assets are protected."

The former couple insisted there was no "anger or animosity" towards each other when they announced they had split.

Their statement read: "Despite a deep love and respect for one another, we have realised that our current paths have taken us in opposite directions.

"We have both shared so much of our journey publicly so while we would prefer to keep this aspect of our personal life private, we wanted to be forthcoming in our truth together. There is no anger or animosity, quite the contrary."

Kaley cited irreconcilable differences when she filed for divorce after three years of marriage.

In June, there were no signs of difficulties in their relationship as they marked their wedding anniversary with sweet tributes on social media.

Kaley - who was previously married to Ryan Sweeting between 2013 and 2016 - wrote: "NY, June 30th, 2016 is the year we met. 2 years to the day before we got married and now 3 years married! Why have you stayed married to me for so long?! I'm sincerely impressed @mrtankcook lol I love you oh so much you have no ideahappy anniversary!!! (sic)

Karl added: "I agree @kaleycuoco I am just as amazed it's been three years, feel like just a flash. I love you so much and I can't wait for a million more years!! (sic)"
The Rocktown Rollers is a local roller derby group that prides itself on inclusivity and lifting up its own members as well as others. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the group hasn't been able to practice but hopes to get back to Funkys Skate Center as soon as possible.
Want to praise someone or get something off your chest? Darts and Pats is the place to do it.
America may be only weeks away from defaulting on its debts, undermining its pivotal position within the global financial system and throwing the US economy and global financial markets into chaos.

When the US hit its legislated debt ceiling on July 31 the Biden administration, unable to issue new debt, was forced to take extraordinary measures to conserve cash. It stopped issuing new debt, ran down its cash reserves, sold investments and suspended payments into some federal government employee retirement funds.

The US running out of cash. Credit:Bloomberg

At the time US Treasury warned that it would exhaust those measures sometime in October or, at the latest, November. On Wednesday, in a letter to Congress, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen warned that the most likely outcome is that the governments cash reserves will be exhausted in October.

Uncertainty about the levels of corporate and individual tax receipts due this month and pandemic-related relief spending meant Treasury was unable to provide a more specific estimate.

Without an increase in the debt ceiling the US would be unable to meet its obligations for the first time in its history, Yellen said.
Loading After her leg was removed at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Mrs May was returned to Dubbo Base Hospital with comprehensive instructions for post-amputation care. She was determined to walk, her daughter, Kim May, said. She loved life, she loved her family, she didnt want to die. The family wanted the instructions followed to the letter, but said they were ignored by staff at Dubbo Base Hospital. Kim May said when she complained that her mothers tight stocking was not being changed at the required intervals, a doctor told her: Im not into amputees.

The family also complained Mrs Mays stump became swollen after it was left dangling off a chair, another apparent breach of the instructions. Mrs Mays family was horrified when the stump was then rested on an upside-down rubbish bin, with a towel used as a leg rest. Kim May said the bins contents  a full bag of rubbish  was left on the other side of the room. There were still stitches in the leg wound. Imagine the germs that could have got in, she said. In another instance a wardsman dropped an oxygen bottle on Mrs Mays remaining leg, leaving a painful bruise.

Loading With no apology  he just took off, Kim May recalled. It was decided Mrs May would be relocated to Wellington Hospital while she awaited a bed in a rehabilitation facility. The move was postponed several times because of staffing issues at Wellington before it eventually occurred at around 11pm on a freezing winter night. The family said when they queried the decision they were told: We can send her to Bourke if you like.

In the rush to transport Mrs May, her nightie sleeve was inadvertently left tightly wrapped around her upper arm following the removal of a cannula. The resulting tourniquet effect created a large swelling of clotted blood known as a hematoma, according to the Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC). The HCCC noted the coffee cup sized hematoma was not discovered for more than five hours because staff at Wellington Hospital failed to perform follow up observations of the arm overnight. The family were concerned about staffing levels at Wellington Hospital. Kim May said she arrived there to find her mother distressed and sitting in her own faeces after yelling and ringing the bell through the night to no avail.

Kim May said the hematoma was not treated until it was unbelievably painful and like a hard-boiled emu egg. The hematoma continued to plague Gwens recovery  eventually Gwen had to undergo surgery to remove the hematoma, an HCCC issues document said. The pain in her arm also impacted her ability to participate in the planned physiotherapy program. Mrs May deteriorated when she began experiencing problems with her heart. Kim May said her mother gave up her fight after a doctor told her she was at the end of her life, passing away on July 22, 2017. A spokesperson for the Western NSW Local Health District said Mrs May was extremely unwell and her death was not related to the hematoma.

Loading But her daughter still feels that the hematoma contributed to the final outcome. If this was handled a different way, maybe mum had a chance, Kim May said. I cant bring my mum back, but hopefully she is watching up in heaven to see that improvements have been made for other patients. Ms Mays family received a written apology from Dubbo Base Hospitals general manager, Debbie Bickerton.

Your feedback  has highlighted a lack of care that does not align with the Western NSW Local Health Districts core values, she said. We are working with staff to embed our expectation that they will at all-time [sic] display kindness and empathy to all patients. The spokeswoman for the Western NSW Local Health District said it acknowledged that some aspects of the care provided to Mrs May were not at the standard expected. The spokeswoman said it had developed a new model of care allowing patients to be remotely monitored to reduce the need for transfers and allow transfers to be better managed. A review was also undertaken to ensure transport vehicles are available at high-usage sites like Dubbo, she said.
A relaxation of rules on the Queensland and NSW border remains up in the air, despite the southern state easing restrictions in some regional areas.

The NSW government announced parts of the Mid North Coast, North Coast, North-West, Albury, Riverina and Murrumbidgee areas would exit lockdown on Saturday due to low COVID case numbers, potentially having implications for Queenslands border bubble.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk fronts a COVID-19 press conference at Metcash Export Services in Crestmead, Brisbane. Credit:Matt Dennien

But Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, speaking about 10.15am on Thursday, said she would not deal with hypotheticals before NSWs press conference, held about 11am.

I understand my Deputy Premier is in discussions with the Deputy Premier of NSW, so as soon as we hear well be reacting very quickly, she said.
A Bayside real estate agent has pleaded guilty to child exploitation charges after he and the former boss of a well-known charity filmed themselves having sex with a 16-year-old schoolgirl before circulating video footage.

In the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday, former Haileybury school teacher Paul Torok, 51, admitted to meeting the teenager on a social networking site called Skout in 2019, before contacting his friend, former Reclink chairman David OHalloran, 65, and sending him images of the girl.

Bayside real estate agent Paul Torok.

He said to OHalloran: I have a proposition. I have a friend who want [sic] to be with two men. But shes young.

The younger the better, OHalloran responded.
The New South Wales government has previously stated GST changes were resulting in inequitable and unfair outcomes however Prime Minister Scott Morrison has ruled out any changes to the floor. The iron curtain Mr McGowan said the surplus was a result of his governments sound financial management, but without the barnstorming iron ore price over 2020-21 the books wouldnt have looked nearly as healthy. State revenue hit $40.1 billion, with more than 25 per cent of that coming from iron ore royalties, which came in at more than $11.3 billion. In February the state predicted a surplus of $3.1 billion with a predicted iron ore price of US$134 per tonne.

That prediction proved US$20 below the actual figure as the iron ore price rallied over the last quarter thanks to continued disruptions of the industry in Brazil and global stimulus packages ramping up steel production in China. For every dollar movement in the price of iron ore WAs coffers become $82 million richer. WA Premier and Treasurer Mark McGowan delivers the states 2021 budget. Credit:Peter de Kruijff In addition to the iron ore surplus, WAs taxation revenue increased by $1.1 billion more than forecast because of the states strong residential property and motor vehicle markets. The good fortunes are also expected to keep on going into the forward estimates, although at a muted level because of more conservative forecasts of taxation and royalty revenue.

This years surplus is expected to hit $2.8 billion and $1.9 billion in 2022-23 though ratings agency S&P said these could likely be higher because the budgets long term iron ore price of US$66 per tonne may be too conservative. Our house view assumes a price of about US$90 per ton in 2023, it said. The rebound from last years COVID-19-induced downturn was quicker than we expected, and we forecast momentum to be maintained. Despite being showered in money and some repayment of government loans, net debt will remain above $32 billion this year and edge slightly higher to $36 billion by 2024-25 as the government ramps up its $30 billion construction pipeline. COVID

The budget was scant on predictions about COVID impacts but included $1 billion of already announced extra funding for COVID response initiatives in health and community safety. Mr McGowan said the state followed the Commonwealths budget assumption that international borders would open up in the September quarter of next year. He said there were no assumptions about the state border because it had very few impacts on the states finances. There is a border to NSW and Victoria but there is no assumption around it because the Treasury estimates that basically in terms of travel there is little impact of a border in terms of the financial impact on the state, he said. Mr McGowan is both Premier and Treasurer in WA.

The real impact is if we have an outbreak, thats where the impact is. The Premier echoed previous remarks that the state would not consider loosening border and lockdown COVID restrictions until the state had hit between 80 and 90 per cent vaccination rates. Major items The state will bring forward a review of its contentious wages policy that has locked the public sector into wage rises of only $1000 since Labor came to government in 2017. Mr McGowan said discussion would begin with public sector unions immediately with a view to making a decision next year, however he would not reveal what impact any increase would have on the future finances of the state.

I think its recognising reality, we have a good financial position and weve had an extremely tough wages policy now for four years, he said. Public Sector Union WA secretary Rikki Hendon said West Australians needed a pay rise that kept up with the cost of living to keep them in jobs needed to keep the state going. With WA boasting a $5.6 billion budget surplus, the rationale for such a policy clearly no longer exists, she said. In addition to already announced funding boosts in health and housing the budget also contained $750 million for a climate action plan, $1.4 billion for a new desalination plant and $400 million to get the ball rolling on the Westport outer harbour port project. WAs booming economy has had its downfalls, however, with the state government forced to delay several major infrastructure projects including the Thornlie to Cockburn train line as skills shortages impacted industry.

On the housing front, the WA Government announced an extension of the off-the-plan stamp duty rebate until October 2023 at a reduced rate of 50 per cent for apartment buyers. The state will also smooth out the overheated home building sector by extending the building bonus requirement for construction to begin within 12 months to 18 months. Real Estate Institute WA president Damian Collins welcomed the changes but was disappointed the state didnt commit to wholesale reform of stamp duty as Perth continues to weather a rental crisis. The private sector provides the vast majority of housing and issues such as stamp duty, as well as the current review of the Residential Tenancies Act and its implications, can have a material impact on the supply of rental housing, Mr Collins said. Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief economist Aaron Morey said the state was not using its fat wallet to diversify its economy.
The day before he was dumped as defence minister in 2015, Liberal hardliner Kevin Andrews pulled a bold move  he appointed his long-time staff member and conservative party factional player Nick Demiris to the crucial quasi-judicial role of inspector-general of the defence force.

Details of the appointment, which was overturned days later by a furious prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, have emerged as concern circulates at the highest levels of the Australian Defence Force about whom the government will appoint when outgoing watchdog James Gaynors term ends amid the fallout from the damaging Brereton inquiry into war crimes.

Long-time Kevin Andrews staffer Nick Demiris. Credit:Daniel Pockett

The concern extends to the appointments of two other key defence roles, chief of the defence force and chief of army. The terms of current Chief of the Defence Force Angus Campbell and Chief of Army Rick Burr are also ending soon.

Mr Andrews appointment of his staffer Mr Demiris in September 2015 has been confirmed by a leaked document obtained by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald that reveals the appointment was to begin in December 2015 and last for five years.
Australians needed an insurance policy when Scott Morrison and Greg Hunt struck a deal with AstraZeneca in August last year to get some of the first vaccines against COVID-19.

But the insurance policy was too late and too small. It took months for the Prime Minister and Health Minister to commit to a similar deal with Pfizer, whose vaccine turned out to be one of the best.

Scott Morrison received his second Pfizer dose in March, but could it have been earlier if the government had done a deal sooner? Credit:Edwina Pickles

The government needed more options to cover itself if one of the vaccines fell over. The documents revealed this week show it was too slow to commit to Pfizer at the very time it hailed its alliance with AstraZeneca.

Australia was badly late when it announced a deal with Pfizer in November last year for 10 million doses. The United Kingdom had a deal on July 20, the US on July 22 and Japan on July 31.
A Royal Australian Air Force plane has rescued almost 100 Afghans from Pakistan who will be resettled in Australia after they complete quarantine in Darwin.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans have fled into Pakistan in recent weeks after the Talibans takeover of Afghanistan. These include hundreds of Afghans who have been granted visas by Australia, government sources confirmed.

An RAAF C-130J Hercules evacuated 93 Afghans from Pakistan, who are now quarantining in Darwin. Credit:Defence

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the evacuation, including 32 flights out of Kabul, was one of the finest moments of Australias military and diplomatic history.

The Department of Defence confirmed the RAAF C-130J Hercules picked up 92 Afghan visa holders from Islamabad about 5pm local time on Tuesday and took them to Australias military base in Dubai. They were then flown on a Qantas flight to Darwin where they have entered their 14-day quarantine period.
A company part-owned by a former vice-president of the Victorian Labor Party was awarded an $86.4 million contract by the Andrews government to provide COVID-19 medical and health services without a tender process or proper procurement process.

While an Auditor-Generals report tabled in State Parliament this week found no evidence that the deal was struck because of the companys political connections, it questioned the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding the contract.

Hotel quarantine staff help newly returned travellers settle in. Credit:Asanka Ratnayake

The episode dates back to the early, chaotic days of Victorias hotel quarantine program when senior bureaucrats were given just two days to establish a system of housing returned overseas travellers in city hotels.

An immediate problem was how to find doctors to treat people in the hotels. On the morning the quarantine program was due to accept its first guests, Nathan Pinskier, a prominent Melbourne GP and president of the General Practice Deputising Association, took a call from a bureaucrat in Victorias Department of Health and Human Services asking for his help.
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Im confident and happy and excited and love these guys," Aaron Rodgers said. "As a competitor, Im frustrated about my performance, our performance. But this game is about how you respond to negativity usually more than how you're hailed for your successes."
Im confident and happy and excited and love these guys," Rodgers said. "As a competitor, Im frustrated about my performance, our performance. But this game is about how you respond to negativity usually more than how you're hailed for your successes."
This week, Munich is hosting IAA Mobility, a reinvention of the car show that for seven decades occurred annually in Frankfurt, until the Covid-19 pandemic forced its cancellation in 2020.

Set amid environmental protests that shut down roadways and the buildup to a September 26 election that will see German Chancellor Angela Merkel replaced after 16 years, IAA has been rebranded to a mobility showcase of electric scooters and e-bikes, electric buses and trams, transportation pods, and  oh, yes  some cars, too.

It was the first major show to be held since pandemic cancellations brought Germanys trade show industry a $47 billion loss, according to the Association of the German Trade Fair Industry. Auto brands were already questioning the relevance of car shows before the novel coronavirus arrived.



Ferrari, Aston Martin, McLaren, and Bentley opted to skip this one, too. But several major manufacturers thought it worth their while to be a part of the confab, which was staged at Munichs gargantuan convention hall and some of the citys most significant and beautiful historical sites, including the Bayerische Staatsoper opera house .

Volkswagen showcases its ID.5 GTX crossover coupe



The MINI Vision Urbanaut concept car at a BMW event



A Mercedes-Maybach luxury SUV seen ahead of the IAA Mobility



Hyundai shows off its all-electric Ioniq 6 concept car



The German-Israeli development City Transformer electric car



A Mercedes-Benz scooter
In a major relief to Future Group, the (SC) on Thursday stayed the proceedings initiated by e-commerce firm for the enforcement of the emergency award passed in its favour by a Singapore-based arbitrator to halt the $3.4-billion merger deal between Future Retail (FRL) and

The Bench of Chief Justice of India N V Ramana and Justices Surya Kant and A S Bopanna also directed the National Company Law Tribunal, Competition Commission of India, and markets regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India not to pass any final order in relation to the dispute for four weeks.

They passed the above order in a special leave petition filed by Future Coupons and FRL. It was against the order passed by the single Bench of the Delhi High Court (HC) that directed the attachment of assets of and its promoter Kishore Biyani and issued a show cause notice for the civil arrest of Biyani and other directors of for breach of the emergency award, according to the law platform LiveLaw.

Experts such as Manmeet Singh, Partner at law firm Saraf & Partners, said since the emergency award is the subject matter of challenge in Singapore, on an appeal filed by Future Group, the Hon'ble has by way of an order which was consented to by the parties, in order to balance the equities, stayed the execution proceedings pending against and restrained the regulators from passing any final order in the matter. "However, the regulators would be free to proceed with their consideration of the transaction in the meantime," said Singh.

However, the regulators would be free to proceed with their consideration of the transaction in the meantime, said Singh.

In August, the SC had ruled in favour of in a case that pitted the American online major against Indias original retail king Biyanis Future Group and Mukesh Ambanis Reliance Retail (RRL), which was set to go big on e-commerce. The ruling had put the $3.4-billion merger deal between Future and Reliance on hold.

The top court allowed the appeal filed by against a Delhi HC order, staying the attachment of properties of Future Group and Biyani in relation to a FRL-RRL merger worth Rs 24,713 crore ($3.4 billion).

The Bench of Justices Rohinton Fali Nariman and B R Gavai held that the order of an emergency arbitrator is enforceable in India, under Section 17(2) of the Arbitration Act.

The case centres on Amazon challenging FRLs merger with RRL, alleging that the transaction breached an agreement with the American e-commerce firm. Amazon had cited its non-compete agreement with the Biyani-led chain. The deal specified any disputes would be arbitrated under the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) rules.

"Nothing will happen in four weeks.

Issue notice, taking into consideration the challenge to the emergency arbitrator award is pending before the tribunal under SIAC rules," the SC noted on Thursday, according to law platform Bar & Bench.

Last year after selling his retail assets to Reliance, Future Group founder had said he had no option but to exit the business in the face of mounting debt and revenue losses, triggered by the pandemic and lockdown. Biyani said the company lost Rs 7,000 crore in revenue in the first three-four months of the pandemic phase.

Last year, the matter was arbitrated at SIAC, in which Amazon got a favourable ruling in October. FRL's representative had told the arbitration panel in Singapore that if the deal with RRL fails, then the company would go into liquidation. The closure of the company would lead to over 29,000 job losses.
Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. won a four-year battle for control of money from an arbitration award that it says it needs to repay lenders.

A two-judge panel of the Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the 2017 arbitration award in favor of the Anil Ambanis unit. The arbitration tribunal award is worth over 46.6 billion rupees ($632 million) including interest, according to Reliance Infrastructures annual report.

The verdict is a crucial victory for Ambani as his telecom firms are in bankruptcy and he is contesting a personal insolvency case lodged by the countrys largest lender. Reliance Infra shares jumped by the daily limit of 5% after the court order.

Reliance will use the money to pay lenders, the companys lawyers had said during the case hearings, following which the top court had barred banks from marking the companys accounts as non-performing assets. The final ruling in the case also lifts the courts restriction on lenders.

A detailed copy of the court ruling is awaited.

Reliance Infrastructures unit had in 2008 entered into a contract with for running the countrys first private city rail project till 2038. Following disputes over fee and operations in 2012, Ambanis firm stopped operating the capitals airport metro project and initiated an arbitration case against alleging violation of contract and sought a termination fee.
Cuemath, a global online math learning platform backed by Google parent Alphabets fund CapitalG has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Vivek Sunder as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Sunder, 47, joins from Swiggy, India's largest online food ordering and delivery platform, where, as chief operating officer between (2018) and (2021), he scaled Swiggys business manifold.

The appointment follows a planned succession strategy, where Cuemaths founder, Manan Khurma, who has grown by 10x since its inception, will now become Chairman.

"I am excited to welcome Vivek (Sunder) to the family, said Khurma. I am confident his proven track record and extensive experience building consumer brands, coupled with a laser-focus on industry-leading operational practices, will drive and extend Cuemath's upward trajectory and become a leader in global Math education.

Adding more depth to its senior team will reassure that the company, which grew 2x over the previous fiscal year, is well on its way to reaching 50 countries and becoming a Global Math leader. The edtech brand is now present in over 20 countries with 200,000 students covering 25 million hours of teaching.

Both Khurmas and Sunders roles will take effect from 1 October 2021. They will work seamlessly together to execute Cuemaths growth strategy. As chief executive officer, Sunder will be responsible for Cuemaths overall business and its global expansion. His 23 years of business and technology sector experience includes several leadership roles at Procter & Gamble, where he drove top and bottom-line growth, and expanded market share and margins in a challenging macroeconomic climate. He is an alumnus of IIM-Calcutta, a leading Indian business school.

Im particularly impressed by Cuemaths razor-sharp focus on a childs learning outcomes, said Sunder. I am also drawn to the mission of democratizing math and aiming to create the next generation of thinkers and problem solvers.

As Chairman, Manan Khurma will focus on Cuemaths initiative to help solve the worlds biggest economic and societal challenges caused by suboptimal education. As the architect of Cuemaths STEM.org-certified curriculum, he will also focus on pedagogy and developing the curriculum to ensure provides the best learning experience to children, parents, and teachers.
on Thursday said General Insurance has ceased to be its subsidiary, as shareholding of the bank has come down to 48 per cent after the merger of with the insurer.

General Insurance Company (ICICI Lombard) had on September 8, 2021, allotted equity shares of the company to the eligible shareholders of General Insurance Company (Bharti AXA), as per the scheme of arrangement between the two insurers.

The scheme of arrangement between and came into effect on September 8, 2021.

"ICICI Lombard has made the disclosure to the stock exchanges...Accordingly, with the bank's shareholding reducing from 51.86 per cent to 48.08 per cent, ICICI Lombard has ceased to be a subsidiary of the bank," the bank said in a regulatory filing.

ICICI Lombard has allotted a total of 35,756,194 equity shares of the company to Bharti AXA shareholders -- Bharti General Ventures (18,235,659) and Societe Beaujon (17,520,535).

Last year, ICICI Lombard entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bharti Enterprises-promoted Bharti AXA General Insurance in an all-stock transaction.

Based on the share exchange ratio recommended by independent valuers and accepted by the boards of the two companies, the shareholders of Bharti AXA received two shares of ICICI Lombard for every 115 shares of Bharti AXA held by them.

Bharti AXA was a joint venture between Bharti Enterprises (51 per cent) and French insurer AXA (49 per cent).

With the merger of Bharti AXA with ICICI Lombard, both the former owners of Bharti AXA have exited the non-life insurance business.

Last week, sectoral regulator Irdai had given its final approval for the demerger of the general insurance business of Bharti AXA General Insurance with ICICI Lombard.

Shares of ICICI Lombard closed 0.58 per cent up at Rs 1,620.90 apiece on BSE.

(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 services major on Thursday formally launched its 'Equinox' suite of solutions to help enterprises transform their online and in-store functions and deliver personalised omnichannel commerce experiences for B2B and B2C buyers.

Speaking to PTI, Executive Vice President and Global Head Consumer (Retail and Logistics) Karmesh Vaswani said Equinox is a suite of digital commerce and digital marketing capabilities that can help any company rapidly transform its online and in-store experiences for a digitally native world.

"Equinox has seen a great response in the Foundation phase over the last two years, and is already being used by several global enterprises, helping drive over USD 15 billion in annual e-commerce gross merchandise value, Vaswani said.

He added that Equinox's target industries include retail, CPG, telecom, automotive, manufacturing and media streaming.

The retail segment contributes to 15 per cent of the overall Infosys revenues today. Digital Technology related services and solutions contributed 48.5 per cent of the Bengaluru-based company's topline. Vaswani said the company has been investing in the core capabilities of Infosys Equinox for over five years.

"We saw this white-space early, and also observed that none of the other ISVs in this industry were addressing it. We have tested our offering in the market, and have successfully addressed this capability gap for several of our customers in Retail, CPG, Manufacturing, Automotive, Telecom and Media Streaming," he added.

Equinox has evolved from the Skava Commerce platform that Infosys had acquired in 2015.

"Since the acquisition, Infosys has continued to invest in Skava to build out its industry leading commerce capabilities. From the launch of version 7.0 of the platform in late 2016, to Skava Commerce 8.0 in 2018, and the current version 8.11, new capabilities have continuously been added to the platform," Vaswani said.

He added that in the last two years, the microservices for subscriptions, loyalty, ratings and reviews, order management, CSR capabilities etc have been significantly upgraded with each release.

Vaswani explained that while most enterprises have digital commerce platforms in place now, they are at risk of getting disrupted by smaller that are more nimble and digitally native.

"Larger enterprises also need a similar agility to respond to the market, but the platforms they use also have to take into account all their unique complex enterprise systems and processes. And that is where Infosys Equinox comes in providing all the future-ready capabilities with the right balance of agility and adaptability," he said.

Vaswani said having proven the value, Infosys believes this is the right time to take this offering to market so that it can help enterprises across the globe in modernising and upgrading their digital commerce and digital marketing capabilities rapidly.

Infosys Equinox helps businesses transform their digital commerce across marketing, merchandising, e-commerce, store operations, supply chain and customer service through its four offerings.

The launch version of Infosys Equinox includes all the capabilities of Skava Commerce, while bringing in multiple additional features like new channels of engagement (including chatbots, voice assistants etc) and launching new business models (Marketplaces, direct to consumer, SuperApps etc).

Vaswani said Infosys Equinox supports both B2C and B2B requirements for commerce.

"This is enabling our customers (across segments) to leverage the platform for a variety of use cases. A telecom major in the US is using Infosys Equinox to power their B2B and B2B2C businesses, while an automotive major is using Equinox microservices to drive sales of its limited edition car releases," he added.

With the rapid shifts in consumer behaviour and eCommerce industry dynamics, especially accentuated post pandemic, enterprises need a commerce platform that achieves the perfect balance between agility and adaptability - and Infosys Equinox provides that, he said.

"We have been on a very aggressive investment path for the last five years in developing, launching and implementing this platform for some of the largest enterprises in the world. The Infosys Equinox team is led by Amit Kalley...he is supported by some of the best talent in the industry," he added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) through its joint venture Reliance Mobility Ltd (RBML) has tied up with Gurugram-based BluSmart to set up electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure.



The two sides are likely to scale up this partnership into an investment deal that will allow BluSmart to increase its EV fleet size multiple times and offer services outside the National Capital Region (NCR).



Discussions are underway between BluSmart and the fuel and mobility joint venture between RIL and BluSmart is an EV ride-hailing service provider with a fleet of more than 500 electric cars and over 300 stations.RBML, which operates under the brand name Jio-bp, is also looking for active partnerships with leading OEMs, technology, and platform players for setting up its EV fixed stations with a format-specific approach for all vehicle categories. The company will leverage bps global learnings in electrification and apply them to the Indian market.Along with BluSmart, Jio- will set up a network of commercial large-scale EV charging stations across the country under the arrangement announced on Thursday. Jio-bp will also set up these stations for passenger and fleets across the country.BluSmart, through its all electric fleet, provides zero-surge and zero-tailpipe emission ride-hailing service in the Delhi-NCR. The company plans to expand its network into other major cities across India.Through this partnership, both will collaborate in planning, development and operation of EV charging infrastructure, at suitable locations across cities where BluSmart operates. With the first-phase roll-out will be in the National Capital Region, these EV charging stations will be capable of accommodating a minimum of 30 vehicles at each station and will be concentrated in urban areas, said a joint statement from the

ALSO READ: EV Plugs comes up with aggregator service for EV charging



According to Harish C Mehta, chief executive officer, Jio-bp, the company plans to be at the forefront of EV infrastructure development in the country. Leveraging bps learnings from the UK with bp Pulse, where they have the countrys largest EV charging network, from Germany through their Aral brand, Jio-bp intends to bring in the latest in EV technology to our consumers, he said.





BP Pulse operates Britains fully integrated, end-to-end manufacturer and operator of charging infrastructure. This was after it bought Chargemaster in 2018.The partnership with BluSmart will help offer new-age low-carbon emitting, cleaner and more affordable options, said Mehta. This would be in line with RILs new-energy focus under which it is also looking for advanced mobility to create low carbon transport solutions.BluSmart operates large EV charging Superhubs powering its own EV fleet as well as offering services to others. We are thrilled to be partnering with Jio-bp and are committed to take this strategic collaboration to greater heights. EV Superhubs are the future of EV charging as it provides seamless charging access to consumers and ride-hailing fleets and we will be jointly building some of the largest EV Superhubs in the world, said Anmol Jaggi, co-founder and chief executive officer, BluSmart.The joint venture would use RILs presence across 21 states through the Jio digital platform. Jio-bp has a target to expand its fuel retailing network to 5,500 over the next five years. To support these outlets, it has started franchise onboarding and has initiated infrastructure development at all supply locations. It has also started pilot testing of battery swap stations at over 24 select locations.
Work collaboration company Notion has acquired Automate.io, a software-as-a-services company based in Hyderabad. The financial details of the deal have not been not disclosed.

The 5-year-old company has around 40 employees. With this Notion gets its first engineering hub in India.

"Together with Automate, we will give users and enterprises the ability to seamlessly bring their most valuable workflows into Notion, so it can truly serve as a central hub for work," said Akshay Kothari, COO, Notion.

With major platform partners like Zapier and IFTTT, as well as with the launch of the Notion API earlier this year, Notion has expanded access to thousands of integrations for every kind of Notion user and the team. The company plans to expand on these efforts with this acquisition, and will continue to work closely with partners on even more integrations that can enable users and enterprises alike to build the tools they need to succeed at work.

"Our mission has always been to support businesses by automating repetitive tasks, and to be more efficient. We want users to spend less time dealing with challenging integrations, and more time building and creating the software they need," says Ashok Gudibandla, CEO, Automate.io. "Together with Notion, we'll be able to offer the same integration and automation experience to a broader set of users across the globe. We are thrilled to be joining forces with Notion, an ideal partner who shares our values and commitment to extending the power of a collaborative, seamless software experience," he said.

Automate's home in Hyderabad will also become Notion's fifth global office, joining existing locations in Dublin, Tokyo, New York, and San Francisco. It will be Notion's first engineering hub outside the US, where the company will continue hiring key engineering talent, while supporting their community of passionate local users.
Ola Electric's technology team is working hard to iron out the technical kinks that marred the electric vehicle companys hyped online sale of its electric scooters (e-scooters) - the S1 and the S1 Pro  on Wednesday, said company sources. The SoftBank-backed firm is facing technical difficulties in making the website live for the purchase of its e-scooters.

According to company sources, the website couldnt go live as there were integration issues. The firm has built a complete digital purchase journey, including a fully digital loan process that does not require any paperwork.

Ola had planned the sale from 6 pm on September 8. This was part of its plan to skip the physical store model and go completely digital. However, the company was not successful in providing this first-of-its-kind digital purchase journey as the sale window did not open and people had to wait for hours. A lot of customers vented their frustration on social media platforms for not being able to buy the product.

Our team is working on fixing the website and making sure it doesnt happen again, said a company source, adding, We will now be starting our purchase on September 15 at 8 am and are making this platform capable of handling huge traffic.

Company sources said the firm is reaching out to customers and keeping them informed about their reservations via SMS, email, and push notification. Their reservation and position in the purchase queue remain unchanged. So, the customers that reserved it first will get it first. The delivery dates also remain unchanged.

"I want to apologise to all of you who had to wait for several hours. The website was just not up to expectations on quality. I know we disappointed you and I sincerely apologise to each one of you for what was clearly a very frustrating experience," Bhavesh Aggarwal, co-chairman and group chief executive officer, Ola, tweeted.

A spokesperson for Ola on Thursday said the firm has apologised to those consumers who have reserved its e-scooter. We faced technical difficulties in making our website for purchases live and we decided to postpone go-live with our purchase website on September 15 at 8 am, said the spokesperson for the company.

Last month, Ola Electric took the wraps off its maiden e-scooter offerings - the S1 and S1 Pro - for a commercial launch on Sunday. With prices starting from Rs 99,999 (excluding state government incentives, registration fee, and insurance cost), Aggarwal had said the e-scooters are designed and engineered in India for the world and will deliver the best scooter experience to the consumer. He suggested that after 2025, the sale of petrol-powered two-wheelers should not be allowed.

Ola is now in direct competition with electric two-wheeler makers, such as Ather Energy, Hero Electric, Bajaj's Chetak, and TVS Motor Company. It has the S1 (Rs 99,999) and S1 Pro (Rs 1,29,999) e-scooter models.

The company had said it would allow buyers for the purchase of its vehicles from September 8, and start deliveries across 1,000 cities and towns in October. The company had said it would sell the vehicles online (olaelectric.com) and also through physical stores in future.

All that remains on track and nothing has changed, said a company source. The person said the company is initially focusing on the digital mode to sell the vehicles and would pursue a hybrid model later.

Ola had announced in December 2020 that it would be investing Rs 2,400 crore for setting up Phase 1 of the factory. The Ola Futurefactory is coming up on a 500-acre site in Tamil Nadu. At full capacity of 10 million vehicles annually, it will be the worlds largest two-wheeler factory and will handle 15 per cent of the world capacity.

It will have an initial capacity of 2 million units a year in Phase 1 and also serve as the companys global manufacturing hub for its range of electric-powered scooters and two-wheelers across India and international markets, including the European Union nations, the UK, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand.
Indias Oil & Natural Gas Corp. is exploring a purchase of a significant minority stake in the $4 billion-plus Sangomar oil project off the coast of Senegal from Woodside Petroleum Ltd., according to people familiar with the matter.



State-owned is discussing acquiring an interest of 20% to 40% in the field, the people said, asking not to be identified as the matter is private. Australia-based Woodside is working with Jefferies Financial Group Inc. on the sale, which could also attract other suitors, the people said.



Deliberations are ongoing and theres no certainty theyll result in a deal, according to the people. Representatives for Jefferies and Woodside declined to comment, while a spokesperson for Videsh Ltd., ONGCs overseas investment arm, didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.



Woodside has built its position in the Sangomar field through a series of stake purchases. Earlier this year, it bought FAR Ltd.s participating interest after exercising its right to match an offer made by That took its stake in the project to 82%, with the remainder held by the Senegalese government. Woodside acquired Cairn Energy Plcs stake in Sangomar last year.



Senegal has been attracting oil and gas on the hunt for new resources. Cairn drilled the first deepwater wells in Sangomar in 2014, making one of the largest oil finds globally that year. Dallas-based Kosmos Energy Ltd. then made a series of major offshore gas discoveries starting in 2016.
The Thursday stayed all the proceedings before the Delhi High Court for four weeks related to implementation of an award by Singapore's Emergency Arbitrator (EA) restraining Ltd (FRL) from going ahead its Rs 24,731 crore merger deal with

A bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana, in a consent order, also directed the statutory authorities like National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Competition Commission of India (CCI) and market regulator Sebi not to pass any final order related to the merger deal for next four weeks.

It considered the statements of senior advocates Harish Salve and Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for FRL and Future Coupons Private Ltd (FCPL) respectively, that the arbitrator has reserved the final verdict in the case after hearing both sides.

Senior advocate Gopal Subramanium, appearing for US-based e-commerce giant Amazon which has challenged the merger, said that it was not interested in any punitive action against FRL, FCPL and their Directors and consented to passing of the order staying the proceedings before the Delhi High Court.

The FRL and FCPL have moved the top court against the Delhi High Court order of August 17 which said that it would implement the earlier order by its single-judge restraining FRL from going ahead with the deal in pursuance of the EA's award.

The High Court had also ordered attachment of properties.

Amazon dragged Future Group to arbitration at Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) in October last year, arguing that FRL had violated their contract by entering into the deal with rival Reliance.

On August 6, the gave the verdict in favour of Amazon and held that Singapore EA's award, restraining the Rs 24,731 crore FRL- merger deal, is valid and enforceable under the Indian arbitration laws.

(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.)
to stop making vehicles in India amid mounting losses and poor sales

India will cease to manufacture vehicles in India, but will retain the engine making and technology services business (Global Business Services) as part of scaling down and restructuring the India operations. Approximately 4,000 employees are expected to be affected by the restructuring.

The move was prompted by the mounting losses and slowdown in India's passenger vehicle market which was further accentuated by the pandemic, Anurag Mehrotra, president and managing director, India told reporters at a virtual press meet on Thursday. Read more

to 'moderately' slow asset purchases as economic outlook improves

The European Central Bank says it is dialling back some of its massive emergency pandemic support for the economy. The move comes amid signs of increasing business activity and consumer readiness to spend as the 19 countries that use the euro rebound from the coronavirus recession. Read more

v. Future: Relief for Biyani as SC stays proceedings in $3.4 bn deal

In a major relief to the Future Group, the Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the proceedings initiated by e-commerce firm for the enforcement of the Emergency Award passed in its favour by a Singapore-based arbitrator to halt the $3.4 billion merger deal between Future Retail Limited and Reliance group.

The bench of Chief Justice of India N V Ramana and Justices Surya Kant and A S Bopanna also directed the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Competition Commission of India (CCI), and market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) not to pass any final order in relation to the dispute for four weeks. Read more

18% of India's adults fully vaccinated, 58% got at least one dose: Govt

The government on Thursday said 58 per cent of India's adult population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine while 18 per cent got both the shots as the total number of jabs administered in the country crossed 720 million.

Addressing a press conference, officials said India is still going through the second wave of coronavirus infections and it is not over yet. Read more
The Thursday refused to stay the trial in a case related to alleged tampering with the evidence of the 1997 Uphaar tragedy case in which barons Sushil and Gopal Ansal were convicted and sentenced to two-year jail term by the Supreme Court.

The high court was hearing a plea by Sushil Ansal seeking to cross examine the investigating officer of the evidence tampering case on the ground of change of counsel representing him.

Justice Yogesh Khanna, who heard the submissions of the counsel for the parties on the plea, listed the matter for further hearing on September 14.

I am not going to give any stay order on this, the judge said, on a prayer made by Sushil Ansal's counsel that the trial in the case is at its final stage before a district court and it be stayed.

Senior advocate N Hariharan, representing Sushil Ansal, submitted that the trial court has disposed of his plea under section 311 (power to summon material witness or examine a person present) of the CrPC and said he was seeking one more opportunity to cross examine the investigating officer.

The plea was opposed by Delhi Police which said the trial is at its final stage as the prosecution and defence evidence has already been closed and the lower court is presently hearing final arguments on behalf of the accused.

Senior advocate Dayan Krishnan, representing the police, contended that it is part of a game that when everything will be over, Sushil Ansal will woke up and file an application.

The trial is about to conclude, opening up the entire process at this stage will not be good. Completing the trial process is also important, he said.

Senior advocate Vikas Pahwa, representing Association of Victims of Uphaar Tragedy (AVUT) chairperson Neelam Krishnamoorthy, also opposed the plea saying a total of 43 witness have been examined in the case and majority of them were examined by Sushil Ansal's previous counsel.

The case relates to tampering with the evidence of the main case in which Ansals were convicted and sentenced to two-year jail term by the Supreme Court.

However, the apex court had released them on the period already undergone in the jail on the condition that they pay Rs 30 crore fine each to be used for building a trauma centre in the national capital.

The Ansal brothers along with a court staff Dinesh Chand Sharma, and other individuals -- P P Batra, Har Swaroop Panwar, Anoop Singh and Dharamvir Malhotra -- were booked in the present case of allegedly tampering with the evidence.

Panwar and Malhotra died during the course of the trial.

According to the charge sheet, the documents alleged to have been tampered with included a police memo giving details of recoveries immediately after the incident, Delhi Fire Service records pertaining to repair of transformer installed inside Uphaar, minutes of Managing Director's meetings and four cheques.

Out of the six set of documents, a cheque of Rs 50 lakh, issued by Sushil Ansal to self, and minutes of the MD's meetings, proved beyond doubt that the two brothers were handling the day-to-day affairs of the theatre at the relevant time, the charge sheet had said.

The fire had broken out at the Uphaar cinema during the screening of Hindi film ''Border'' on June 13, 1997 claiming 59 lives.

The case was lodged on the direction of the while hearing a petition by Krishnamoorthy.

The accused are charged with offences under sections 120-B (criminal conspiracy), 109 (abetment), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence) and 409 (criminal breach of trust) of the IPC.

(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.)
Nearly 70 trainee in who have been grounded for over a year will get an opportunity to work with

While Tata group have inter-company transfer policies, such a co-operation between the two airlines is unique. It will allow the trainee to resume flying, help execute its expansion plans and could be a sign of further synergies between the two airlines.

The Covid-19 pandemic disrupted air travel and hampered the growth plans of airlines. It impacted pilot training too. Trainee undergo ground classes, simulator training and supervised flying before being released for regular duty.

Airlines have been operating fewer flights compared to pre-Covid times, as capacity has been capped by the government. Fewer flights means reduced training opportunities for junior crew.

Some 70-80 pilots were under training in but their training came to a halt because of Covid-19 pandemic. These trainee pilots are now being offered a chance to join as has sufficient pilots to meet its requirements.

"This will certainly benefit pilots in their career progression. It is not so much of a cost saving exercise for the airline," a source said.

Currently AirAsia India has 27 Airbus A320 aircraft and will be receiving another aircraft next month. No other addition is planned at the moment. It is operating around 110-120 flights daily which is around 55-60 per cent of its pre-Covid capacity. Currently, government allows airlines to deploy 72.5 per cent of its capacity

AirAsia India declined comment. In an internal email the operations department wrote to the pilots that selected candidates will have to undergo ground and simulator training to maintain the validity of the licence before their transfer to Vistara. Those who do not wish to take the transfer will be assigned office work within the airline and no assurance can be given regarding the start of training in AirAsia India, the airline told its trainee pilots.

A Vistara spokesperson said " For us the momentum gained in the last one year on our international expansion has been rewarding and we have plans in place to continue adding more destinations to our network as soon as we can. While working on our future growth strategy we are leveraging every opportunity available within our ecosystem for the

same."

AirAsia India shrunk the most in April and May when the country was gripped by the second wave of pandemic. This transfer of pilots could be a first indication that the airline plans to scale down and also a sign that Tatas are looking at synergy between its two aviation brands. This could further change and AirAsia brand could be phased out if the group wins the bid for Air India, said Ameya Joshi, aviation expert and founder of aviation blog Network Thoughts.
In a significant boost to Indias capabilities, the (IAF) was handed over its first Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) system on Thursday, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, at Jaisalmer.

The MRSAM provides protection against incoming enemy aircraft and tactical missiles. It is called a network centric combat system and has been designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).

Such is the militarys and DRDOs confidence in this missile that it was operationally deployed in secret, even before it completed development. This was in September 2016, when the army was planning cross border strikes against Pakistan to avenge the killing of 19 Indian soldiers near Uri.

Pakistani retaliation was expected against a key base, which was protected only by aging Soviet-era missiles. To fill this gap, the IAFs first MR-SAM unit, which was still being built in Hyderabad by Bharat Dynamics Ltd, was quietly airlifted to the vulnerable base  a vote of confidence based on recent firing trials. And when Indian commandos crossed the LoC on the night of September 28, 2016, the MRSAM was poised for operational use.

About 20-30 per cent of the MRSAM has been developed by the DRDO, including the missiles propulsion system that is based on a sophisticated dual-pulse rocket motor, its thrust vector controls, and electrical harness (wiring).

IAI has designed and developed 70-80 per cent of the MRSAM, including the Elta MF-STAR radar, which forms the heart of the system.

This is the only missile that all three services have enthusiastically acquired. The naval version of the MRSAM, which is called the LRSAM (Long-Range Surface to Air Missile), is stored in, and fired from, sealed canisters below warship decks, in order to protect the missile from the corrosive marine environment. The LRSAM primarily protects Indian warships from sea-skimming, anti-ship missiles.

So far, the LRSAM has been operationally deployed only on three Indian Navy destroyers  INS Kolkata, Chennai and Kochi. Each carries 32 missiles in vertical launch unit canisters. Now the LRSAM is being fitted on four more destroyers being built under Project 15B and seven frigates being constructed under Project 17A.



The version of the MRSAM is mounted on trailers, and is fired from the open at enemy fighters coming in to attack air bases and other high-priority targets. The army version of the MRSAM protects ground troops from enemy ground attack aircraft. Army MRSAMs are mounted on high-mobility vehicles that keep up with tank columns moving cross-country. All three versions of the missile are identical, except for the software that controls their self-destruct function.
The resumption of Air India's direct flight between Amritsar and Rome on Wednesday came as a relief to many people in Amritsar who were delaying their travels plans.

Sukhman Kaur, who was waiting to visit her father living in Italy, thanked the Central government for the move.

"I was waiting to visit my father for a long time. My brother is young and taking connecting flights was very tough. Also, the direct fight is economically more affordable as passengers were expected to pay very high fares to travel via other countries, as the fights were costly and we have to also pay for quarantine requirements during the transit," said Kaur.

Another traveller Amanjit Singh also hailed the government's move and said the transit flight, either regular or charted were, were very costly.

"This is a very big relief for people who were stranded in India since last April. There was an option to take a connecting flight, but it was very costly. Also, a few hours of the journey between Italy and India took days as travellers had to quarantine in during the stary on transit," he said.

After the resumption of the direct flight between Amritsar and Rome, Amritsar's Sri Guru Ram Das Jee International Airport is now connected with three European cities under the Vande Bharat mission, including London and Birmingham.

Talking about the flight schedule, Vipin Kant Seth, Director of Amritsar Airport, said the flight will depart for Rome from Amritsar and will return from Rome on Friday.

"As per the schedule, the flight will take off from Amritsar at 3.55 pm on Wednesday and reach Rome the same day. It will return the next day and reach Amritsar on Friday morning at 5.35 am. A total of 230 passengers took the first flight from Amritsar to Rome on Wednesday. We are expecting the traffic to increase," Seth added.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Overnight search and rescue operations established contacts with 84 persons, who were travelling on the ill-fated boat that capsized in the river in Assam, but two persons are still missing, officials said on Thursday morning.

One person was confirmed dead after a private boat heading to Majuli sank on Wednesday evening, following a head-on collision with a government-owned ferry near Nimati Ghat in Jorhat district.

The wreckage of the boat, which was found overturned around 1.5 km downstream of the mighty Brahmaputra, was cut open from the base by NDRF and SDRF divers, but no body was found inside it, Jorhat Deputy Commissioner Ashok Barman told PTI.

"So far, one person is confirmed dead and two persons are missing. We could do contact tracing of 84 persons to different villages in Jorhat and Majuli districts. This adds up to the presence of 87 passengers on the boat," he added.

Jorhat's Superintendent of Police Ankur Jain said the two missing persons hail from Jorhat and Lakhimpur districts, and search operation is still going on with divers from the NDRF and SDRF with backup of the Army.

"The divers on Thursday morning also went inside the boat, but could not find any body. Army divers will also search the area. Air Force will carry out an aerial survey downstream to locate the missing persons," he said.

Jorhat Medical College and Hospital's Superintendent Purnima Barua said 11 passengers were admitted to the hospital, of whom one died and three were released.

"Seven persons are still undergoing treatment, but none of them are critical. More than physical injury, they are in mental trauma," she said.

The deceased was identified as Parimita Das, who hailed from Guwahati and was working as a faculty at Rangachahi College in Majuli.

Officials of Inland Water Transport (IWT) Department said private boat 'Ma Kamala' was heading to Majuli from Nimati Ghat on the southern bank with passengers and vehicles, while government ferry 'MB Tipkai' was coming from the world's largest river island when the two collided.

As 'Ma Kamala' was run by private parties, they did not have any system to give tickets to passengers. So, the initial estimate of the passengers on board varied from 80 to 150 as per eyewitness accounts.

Transport Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary, who reached the site at around 3 am, said many heads will roll after the inquiry by Transport Secretary Jadav Saikia is complete.

"Already three officials of the IWT are suspended. Besides, 72 more IWT staffers were present at Nimati Ghat when the accident took place. Why was the boat allowed to leave when another ferry was coming at a high speed? There must be some fault of our staff," he said.

Along with Patowary, state ministers Bimal Bora and Jogen Mohan were also camping at the site to oversee the search and rescue operations.

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma visited Nimati Ghat and toured the river on a boat to assess the on-ground situation.

Officials of the IWT Department said only one ramp of Nimati Ghat is functioning at present as water level in is high due to monsoon rains.

"As only one ramp is operational, any outgoing ferry has to give way to the incoming one. Ma Kamala had to leave the ghat to give way to Tipkai. While it went just a few metres, the two collided," an official said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an emergency landing strip at Satta-Gandhav stretch on Highway 925 here on Thursday for (IAF) planes.

A Hercules C-130J plane of the IAF, carrying the two ministers and Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, conducted a mock emergency landing on the highway on Thursday. NH-925 is India's first highway to be used for emergency landing of IAF aircraft.

The two ministers also witnessed multiple aircraft operations on the emergency landing facility (ELF) of NH-295 on Thursday.

Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet also conducted a mock emergency landing at the ELF in front of the two ministers.

An-32 military transport aircraft and Mi-17v5 helicopter of the IAF also landed at the ELF, showing its complete operational readiness to act as an auxiliary military airbase.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the 3-km section of Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925 as an ELF for the IAF. In October 2017, fighter jets and transport planes of the IAF had conducted mock landings on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway to show that such highways can be used by the IAF planes for landing in case of an emergency.

The Lucknow-Agra Expressway, which is not a national highway, comes under the Uttar Pradesh government.

Officials told PTI a total of 27 other highways, apart from the one in Barmer, are being currently studied jointly by the IAF and the NHAI to see if emergency landing strips can be developed on them.

The emergency landing strip, which was inaugurated on Thursday, is part of newly developed two-lane paved shoulder of Gagariya-Bakhasar and Satta-Gandhav section having total length of 196.97 km and costing Rs 765.52 crore under the Bharatmala Pariyojana.

This highway project will improve connectivity between villages of Barmer and Jalore districts located on the international border.

Apart from the emergency landing strip, three helipads (size 100x30 metres each) have been constructed in Kundanpura, Singhania and Bakhasar villages under this project, according to the requirements of the IAF and the Indian Army.

The ELF and three helipads have been developed so as to strengthen the security network on the western international border of the country.

During normal time, the ELF will be used for smooth flow of road traffic and during the operations of ELF for the IAF, the service road will be used for smooth flow of road traffic.

The ELF was constructed in 19 months. The work commenced in July 2019 and was completed in January 2021



The work was carried out by GHV India Pvt Ltd under the supervision of the IAF and the NHAI.

(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 Union government has placed a purchase order with the (SII) for 66 crore doses of Covishield to be supplied by December, official sources said on Thursday.

The development comes after Prakash Kumar Singh, the Director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at SII, informed the Union that the firm would be able to supply 20.29 crore doses of Covishied in the month of September.

The Pune-based firm has enhanced the manufacturing capacity of Covishield to more than 20 crore doses per month.

The had in July placed an order with Bharat Biotech for the supply of 28.50 crore doses of Covaxin, but the firm has not been able to start the supply of those yet, an official source said.

Bharat Biotech is close to completing the supply of five crore doses of Covaxin for which the had placed an order on March 12, the source said.

The source added that the ministry had placed an order for 37.50 crore doses of Covishield between August to December and the SII is going to complete this suppl by mid-September.

On August 31, as the cumulative COVID-19 vaccine doses administered in the country crossed the 65-crore mark, Singh in his communication to NITI Aayog member (Health) Dr V K Paul and Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan had mentioned that SII alone has supplied more than 60 crore doses of Covishield



Of these 60 crore doses, 2.1 crore were provided in January, 2.5 crore in February, over 4.73 crore in March, more than 6.25 crore in April, over 5.96 crore in May, more than 9.68 crore in June, over 12.37 crore in July and more than 16.92 crore in August, he had said.

In May, Singh had written a letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah mentioning that its employees have been working round the clock in spite of various challenges because of the pandemic.

"We are pleased to inform that in the month of June we will be able to manufacture and supply nine to 10 crore doses of our Covishield vaccine to the country as compared to our production capacity of 6.5 crore doses in May," he had said in the letter.

" has always been sincerely concerned about the protection of the citizens of our country and world at large from COVID-19. Under the leadership of our CEO, Adar C Poonawalla, our team have been working relentlessly shoulder to shoulder with our government to fight the COVID-19 pandemic," he had said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
The Union government on Thursday said no scientific body suggests that vaccination of children against COVID-19 should be a condition for reopening schools, but inoculation of teachers, school employees and parents is desirable.

At a press conference, NITI Aayog member (Health) V K Paul said whether children have to be vaccinated and who among them should get the jabs is an evolving scientific and public health discourse.

Only a limited number of nations have introduced vaccination of children so far, he said.

Besides the aspect of vaccination, the overall epidemiological situation has to be safe for opening schools, he said.

Most importantly, following standard operating procedures about ventilation, seating arrangements, staggered classes and wearing masks among others will be critical when schools reopen, Paul stressed.

"No scientific body, epidemiology, no evidence suggests that vaccination against COVID-19 should be a condition to reopen schools. However, inoculation of teachers, other school employees and parents is desirable," he told the press conference.

"There is no WHO recommendation also that we should move in that direction for reasons such as low mortality and high incidence of asymptomatic infection. We as a nation and government are working actively in the direction of scientific validation of our vaccines for potential use in children." Paul said that Zydus vaccine has also already been licenced for children. How and when it will be administered is being discussed by scientific bodies, Paul said, adding that the trial of Covaxin on children is nearing completion.

Hyderabad-based Biological E Limited has been given permission to conduct the phase two/three clinical trial of its indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine on children and adolescents aged between five and 18 years with certain conditions.

In July, India's Drug Regulator also granted permission to Serum Institute of India (SII) for conducting phase two/three trials of its Covovax vaccine on children aged two to 17 years with certain conditions.

"One vaccine (Zydus) has been made available for potential use in children and we are waiting for a decision from NTAGI in this regard," Paul said.

According to sources, NTAGI will chalk out a roadmap for introducing the three-dose ZyCoV-D vaccine in the ongoing COVID-19 vaccination drive and will also develop a priority list with the focus being on adolescents aged 12-18 years with comorbidities.

NTAGI will provide the protocol and framework for the introduction of this vaccine in the COVID-19 immunisation drive, they said.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
India on Thursday reported a net increase of 2,358 in active cases to take its count to 393,614. Indias share of global active cases now stands at 2.09 per cent (one in 48). The country is sixth among the most affected countries by active cases. On Wednesday, it added 43,263 cases to take its total caseload to 33,139,981 from 33,096,718  an increase of 0.1%. And, with 338 new fatalities, its Covid-19 reached 441,749, or 1.33 per cent of total confirmed infections.

With 8,651,701 more Covid-19 vaccine doses being administered on Wednesday, Indias total count of vaccine shots so far reached 716,597,428. The count of recovered cases across India, meanwhile, reached 32,304,618  or 97.48 per cent of total caseload  with 40,567 new cured cases being reported on Thursday.

Now the sixth-most-affected country by active cases, third by deaths, second by total cases, and first by recoveries, India has added 282,044 cases in the past 7 days.

India now accounts for 2.09% of all active cases globally (one in every 48 active cases), and 9.59% of all deaths (one in every 10 deaths).

India has so far administered 716,597,428 vaccine doses. That is 2162.33 per cent of its total caseload, and 51.36 per cent of its population.

Among Indian states, the top 5 in terms of number of vaccine shots administered are Uttar Pradesh (88346264), Maharashtra (70276897), Gujarat (54477556), Rajasthan (52966170), and Madhya Pradesh (52847104).

Among states with more than 10 million population, the top 5 in number of vaccine shots per one million population are Kerala (931612), Uttarakhand (861906), Gujarat (852912), Delhi (834776), and Karnataka (735053).

Backwards from here, the last 1 million cases for India have come in 27 days.

The count of active cases across India on Thursday saw a net addition of 2,358, compared to net addition 1,608 on Wednesday. States and UTs hat have seen the biggest daily net increase in active cases are Kerala (2436), Mizoram (318), Odisha (180), Andhra Pradesh (58), and Tripura (29).

With 40,567 new daily recoveries, Indias recovery rate stands at 97.48%, while fatality rate remained unchanged at 1.33%.

The Indian states and UTs with the worst case fatality rates at present are Punjab (2.74%), Uttarakhand (2.15%), and Maharashtra (2.12%). The rate in as many as 15 is higher than the national average.

Indias new daily closed cases stand at 40,905  338 deaths and 40,567 recoveries. The share of deaths in total closed cases stands at 0.82%.

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 530.6 days, and for deaths at 905.6 days.

Overall, five states with the biggest 24-hour jump in total cases are Kerala (30196), Maharashtra (4174), Tamil Nadu (1587), Andhra Pradesh (1361), and Karnataka (1102).

Among states with more than 100,000 cases, the five with worst recovery rates at present are Kerala (93.88%).

India on Wednesday conducted 1,817,639 to take the total count of tests conducted so far in the country to 536,817,243. The test positivity rate recorded was 2.4%.

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 Dadra & Nagar Haveli-Daman & Diu (14.73%), Goa (13.96%), Kerala (13.07%), Sikkim (12.65%), and Maharashtra (11.74%).

Five states with the highest TPR by daily numbers for tests and cases added  are Kerala (17.63%), Mizoram (11.47%), Manipur (8.17%), Sikkim (7.32%), and Meghalaya (4.61%).

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 (1399777), J&K (1009126), Kerala (918036), Karnataka (662167), and Telangana (639729).

The five most affected states by total cases are Maharashtra (6497872), Kerala (4283494), Karnataka (2958090), Tamil Nadu (2627365), and Andhra Pradesh (2024603).

Maharashtra, the most affected state overall, has reported 4174 new cases to take its tally to 6497872.

Kerala, the second-most-affected state by total tally, has added 30196 cases to take its tally to 4283494.

Karnataka, the third-most-affected state, has reported 1102 cases to take its tally to 2958090.

Tamil Nadu has added 1587 cases to take its tally to 2627365.

Andhra Pradesh has seen its tally going up by 1361 to 2024603.

Uttar Pradesh has added 15 cases to take its tally to 1709494.

Delhi has added 41 cases to take its tally to 1438082.
Vice President M on Thursday called upon the nation to fix a target to double the medal tally in the 2024 Paris and also for building "all-encompassing support system" for the young and aspiring

India's stellar performance at the Tokyo 2020 had filled the hearts of the countrymen with pride and even more gratifying were the achievements of Paralympians who through their single-minded focus, grit and resilience brought home a record number of 19 medals propelling India into the top 25 at the para games, the Vice President said.

"This is a historic moment in India's sporting journey and their exemplary performance has not only changed people's perception towards disability but has also kindled hopes of India emerging as a major sporting power," he said while virtually inaugurating the Tiruchirappalli Campus of SRM Institute of Science and Technology from the Raj Bhavan here. "Let us set a target for ourselves to double the medal count in Paris in 2024 and lose no time in trying to achieve it," he said and urged all stakeholders, including the private sector, to come together to build an all-encompassing support system for the country's young and aspiring

"If an enabling ecosystem is created, I am sure, there are many more Avani Lekharas (who won a gold medal in rifle shooting in Tokyo 2020 Paralympics) and Neeraj Chopras (Javelin thrower who won gold medal in the Tokyo Olympics) waiting in the wings, whose talent can be nurtured successfully," he said. Educational institutions like SRM Institute whose student Nethra Kumanan, the first Indian sailor to qualify for the Olympics, should take a lead in this direction, the Vice President said. On the challenge of employability, stressed the need to increase employability by focusing on the skills required for the Industry. "Every year, the country produces around 1.5 million engineers, but a survey suggests that only seven per cent of them are suitable for core engineering jobs," he pointed out. Hence, the emphasis must be on building a stronger academia-industry connection and ensuring that creative research results in the application of ground-breaking solutions. The students on their part should equip themselves with emotional and social skills that will enable them to adapt to a rapidly changing world. "Develop a positive outlook towards life and seek to contribute to the larger cause of nation-building. Strive constantly to use your education for the good of others, society and the nation at large," he advised. The services of the SRM group in collaborating with the Government on clinical trials with respect to COVID-19, and also in providing affordable and necessary healthcare facilities to those affected by the pandemic were commendable, he said. The Vice President appreciated the vision and leadership of the founder of the group, Dr T. R. Paarivendhar, and said the SRM group's focus on quality education is in tune with the Government's vision in laying the foundation for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit, founder Chancellor of SRM IST and Member of Parliament T R Paarivendhar, president, SRM IST, Niranjan, and chairman, SRM Groups, Ramapuram and Trichy Campuses Dr R Shivakumar were among those who attended the virtual event.

(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 on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to ensure that the residents of Kambe village in neighbouring district get water supply through tankers at least before the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, which begins on Friday.

Residents of the village in a plea claimed that they received water only for two hours twice a month, and sought a direction to the state government to facilitate supply on a daily basis.

A division bench of Justices S J Kathawalla and Milind Jadhav had earlier this week noted that it was unfortunate that even after 75 years of independence people have to knock the doors of the court to get water supply, which was a fundamental right.

The petitioners had alleged that STEM Water Distribution and Infra company, a joint venture of the Zilla Parishad and the Bhiwandi Nizampur City Municipal Corporation, was illegally supplying water to local politicians and tanker lobbies.

On Thursday, state Advocate General Ashutosh Kumbhakoni, told the court that the state government will find a solution to the problems faced by the petitioners.

The managing director of STEM company and other officials will have a meeting, he said.

The bench, however, said it does not trust the managing director and gave directions for a special committee to be formed for the issues with Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal and additional Commissioner Suresh Kakani on it.

"Keep your MD out. We have no trust in the MD. Appoint our commissioner. We find him responsible." Justice Kathawalla said.

Advocate R D Suryawanshi appearing for the villagers appealed to the court that with a festival round the corner, it was important for the villagers to have water, and hence, at least 10 water tankers must be sent to the village.

The court was informed by Kumbhakoni that water tankers will be arranged and the cost will be borne by STEM company.

The court noted that it was planning to send the orders passed in this matter to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to ensure there are no more such villages that don't have water supply.

"We are going to send this order to the Chief Minister, otherwise the name of this State will be tainted. It is a shame that after 75 years there are such petitions, but we will send the order so that the State should not be shamed further," Justice Kathawalla said.

Kumbhakoni assured the court that on September 14 he will inform the court of a plan of action for removing the illegal connections on the main pipeline.

He also informed the Court that the state government plans to build a direct water connection into the village bypassing all the illegal connections.

(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.)
President on Thursday is toughening COVID-19 vaccine requirements for federal workers and contractors, according to a person familiar with the plans, as he aims to boost vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant that is killing thousands each week and jeopardizing the nation's economic recovery.

Just weeks after he mandated federal workers get a shot or face rigorous testing and masking protocols, Biden has signed an new executive order to require vaccination for employees of the executive branch and contractors that do business with the federal government.

The step comes in advance of a speech Thursday afternoon outlining a six-pronged plan to address the latest rise in coronavirus cases and the stagnating pace of COVID-19 shots.

It wasn't immediately clear if Biden's order includes exceptions for workers or contractors seeking religious or medical exemptions from vaccination. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss Biden's plans before they were publicly released.

Biden has encouraged COVID-19 vaccine requirements in settings likes schools, workplaces and university campuses, and the White House hopes the strengthened federal mandate will inspire more businesses to follow suit.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
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had on Wednesday administered COVID-19 vaccine doses to over 15 lakh beneficiaries, highest in a single day, a senior official said on Thursday.

The state government had administered 14,39,809 doses till 8 pm on Wednesday and as per the final figures released during the day, 15,03,959 persons were given the shot, said Dr Pradeep Vyas, additional chief secretary for public health department.

The government has administered 15,03,959 doses against COVID-19 on Wednesday. With this, the total doses administered so far have now reached 6,55,82,878, he said.

As many as 48.46 per cent people above 18 have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccines in the state. In the 18-44 age group 37.88 per cent people have taken at least one dose, while in the above 45 age group 52.24 per cent people have received at least one dose.

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Saying that prison inmates do not cease to be human beings and can't be deprived of the fundamental right to life, the on Thursday directed the government to transfer alleged Maoist leader Nirmala Uppuganti from jail to a hospice for palliative care on account of her terminal cancer. Uppuganti, an accused in the 2019 Gadchiroli IED blast case, had filed a plea through senior counsel Yug Chaudhry and advocate Payoshi Roy, asking to be shifted to a hospice for palliative care so that she was "properly taken care of during her final days." A bench of Justices S S Shinde and N J Jamadar directed the state prison authorities to shift Uppuganti from the Byculla women's prison in Mumbai to a hospice by September 15. The state's counsel, Sangeeta Shinde, however, had opposed Uppuganti's plea. The state counsel told the HC Uppuganti was accused of a serious offence and was able to move on her own and had been provided the help of two other inmates to take care of her in prison.

The government counsel said as per the advice of Uppuganti's doctors, the prison authorities were taking her to the Tata Memorial Centre, a cancer hospital in Mumbai, three times a week for treatment. In its order on Thursday, the HC, however, said though Uppuganti was accused of a serious offence and charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), refusing her palliative care would breach her fundamental right to protection of life and liberty guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution. "It is trite that the right to life guaranteed to every person by Article 21 of the Constitution is a basic postulate of human right. A prisoner, be he a convict or under-trial or a detenu, does not cease to be a human being, and even when lodged in the jail, he is not deprived of his right to life guaranteed to him under Article 21 of the Constitution, which includes the right to obtain medical treatment," the HC observed. "A prisoner cannot be deprived of health services as it would violate the guarantee conferred under Article 21 of the Constitution of India," the bench said. The HC took note of Uppuganti's medical reports that showed that she had metastatic cancer (in advanced stage) that had spread to multiple organs. It said while Uppuganti was undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy, at such advanced stage of cancer, palliative care seemed "indispensable" to minimise her pain and suffering. "The petitioner has a legitimate right to expect palliative care and nursing," the HC said while directing the jail authorities to transfer Uppuganti from prison to the Shanti Avedna Sadan hospice centre in the city for 12 weeks. The court directed that the prison authorities must coordinate with the hospice centre and the Tata Memorial Centre to ensure Uppuganti continued receiving her ongoing medical treatment. The HC directed the state authorities to transfer Uppuganti to the hospice by September 15 and to provide her with necessary police escort there.

It also permitted Uppuganti to have telephonic access to her husband Satyanarayan Rani, her co-accused in the case, who is currently lodged in the Arthur Road Central Prison in Mumbai. Uppuganti is an accused in the case related to the IED ( improvised explosive device) attack carried out by Naxals in Gadchiroli district of eastern on May 1, 2019. As many as 15 security personnel from the Gadchiroli Quick Response Team and one civilian were killed in the deadly explosion.

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A special court on Thursday discharged Maharashtra minister and senior leader and seven others, including his son and nephew, in the Maharashtra Sadan scam case being probed by the state ACB. Besides (73), the special court hearing cases related to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), discharged his son Pankaj, nephew Sameer and five others in the 2015 case. They had sought discharge in the case, related to alleged corruption in the construction of a new Maharashtra Sadan in Delhi and involvement of a private firm, claiming there was no evidence to prosecute them and the court allowed their applications. The Bhujbhals were represented by counsel Prasad Dhakephalkar along with advocates Sajal Yadava and Sudarshan Khawase.

They submitted that all the allegations against them were false and were based on wrong calculations, assumptions and presumptions. Despite a voluminous charge sheet, running into thousands of pages and filed in 2016, there was no sufficient evidence to proceed with trial, they argued. "He (Chhagan Bhujbal) had no role in selection of the developer. Neither he had any role In selecting the quantum of benefits to be conferred on the developer," the lawyers argued. There is no material on record in any form to suggest that the leader got illegal gratification, they added.



The ACB, in a reply filed through special public prosecutor Ajar Misar, had earlier opposed the discharge pleas, saying Bhujbal and his family members had received kickbacks from a construction firm, K S Chamankar Enterprises. Special judge HS Sathbai, after hearing both sides, allowed the discharge pleas of the accused. However, a detailed order was not available yet. The case relates to a 2005-2006 deal that the leader allegedly gave to the firm, when he was the PWD minister. According to the ACB, the contractors had "earned 80 per cent profit" in the construction of Maharashtra Sadan (the state guest house) in Delhi, while as per the government circular, such contractors were entitled to "only 20 per cent gain".

On July 31, the court had discharged four other accused in case. It had then said there was neither any illegality nor any direct or circumstantial evidence to show that certain illegal means were adopted in awarding contract for the construction of Maharashtra Sadan.

The ACB has claimed that the original cost estimate for Maharashtra Sadan was Rs 13.5 crore, but it was later increased to Rs 50 crore.

The Bhujbals got Rs 13.5 crore in kickbacks from the firm, which earned a profit of about Rs 190 crore from the construction of Maharashtra Sadan and other PWD works, the state agency has alleged. The anti-graft agency has alleged the books of accounts had been "fudged" to show that the profit earned was only 1 per cent. The probe agency has claimed that for the construction of Maharashtra Sadan, K S Chamankar Enterprises had transferred money to Niche Infrastructure and other companies in which the minister's son Pankaj and nephew Sameer Bhujbal were directors. Most of the companies floated by the Bhujbals were in the name of employees and were used for siphoning off funds, the ACB has claimed. is currently the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection Minister in the Shiv Sena-led MVA government.

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Bahujan Samaj Party supremo on Thursday voiced concern over the outbreak of in Uttar Pradesh, and charged that many patients were dying due to lack of proper arrangements in government hospitals.

The state's Firozabad district has been battling an outbreak of and deadly viral fever for the past over two weeks, leaving 55 people dead.

Some cases have been found in neighbouring Mathura, Agra and Mainpuri as well.

In a tweet in Hindi, said, "In the midst of the corona pandemic in UP, the outbreak of and other mysterious fever has engulfed almost the entire state at a very fast pace. Due to lack of proper arrangements in government hospitals, many patients are dying which is a matter of concern".

"The government must pay attention to this," the former chief minister said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Citing the COVID-19 situation, police on Thursday imposed orders under CrPC section 144 in prohibiting assembly of five or more persons during the festival between September 10 to 19.

No processions of any kind would be allowed in the city during this period and devotees would not be allowed to visit pandals either, an official statement added.

Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure empowers the authorities to issue prohibitory orders for preventive purposes.

The Maharashtra home department had issued a circular the day before banning visits to pandals so as to prevent the spread of the viral infection.

on Wednesday recorded 530 new cases, highest since mid-July.

The order issued by Deputy Commissioner of Police S Chaitanya referred to the directives of the home department as well as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).

People can have 'darshan' of idols installed in pandals through the online mode or through other electronic media (such as TV), the police release said.

Any person violating the orders would face action under IPC section 188 (disobeying order lawfully promulgated by public servant) and other relevant laws, it said.

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The on Thursday dismissed a plea seeking directions to fill vacant posts at the Human Rights Commission (NHRC).

A bench headed by Justice L Nageswara Rao noted that former apex court judge Justice Arun Mishra has been appointed as the chairperson of the Human Rights Commission.

"In view of subsequent events of appointment of chairman and members this petition has become infructuous," the bench also comprising Justice B R Gavai said.

During the brief hearing, the petitioner told the bench that chairperson and members have been appointed and only two posts are lying vacant.

The apex court then asked, "Chairperson has been appointed, why should we keep it pending. The matter has become infructuous."



The top court was hearing a plea filed by lawyer Radhakant Tripathi seeking a direction to fill vacant posts at the Human Rights Commission.

Justice Mishra is also the first non-CJI to be appointed to the NHRC chief post since the amendment of the Protection of Human Rights Act in 2019.

The post of NHRC chairperson was lying vacant after Justice H L Dattu, a former Chief Justice of India (CJI), completed his tenure in December last year.

Rajiv Jain, former director of the Intelligence Bureau, and justice M M Kumar, former chief justice of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court have also joined as members of the commission.

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I-T portal glitch: FM's reprimand of Infy reflects contractual weaknesses
The on Thursday directed the government to transfer alleged Maoist leader Nirmala Uppuganti, an accused in the 2019 Gadchiroli IED blast case, from prison to a hospice for palliative care on account of her terminal cancer.

A bench of Justices S S Shinde and N J Jamadar directed the state prison authorities to shift Uppuganti from the Byculla women's prison in Mumbai to a hospice by September 15.

Uppuganti had filed a plea in the high court earlier this month seeking that she be shifted from the prison to a hospice as she is terminally-ill with cancer.

In her plea filed through senior counsel Yug Chaudhry and advocate Payoshi Roy, Uppuganti urged that she be shifted to a hospice for palliative care so that she was "properly taken care of during her final days".

The state's counsel Sangeeta Shinde, however, had opposed Uppuganti's plea.

Shinde had told the high court that Uppuganti was accused of a serious offence. She had said that Uppuganti was able to move on her own and she had been provided the help of two other inmates to take care of her in the prison.

The government counsel further said that as per the advice of Uppuganti's doctors, the state prison authorities were taking her to the Tata Memorial cancer care hospital in the city three times a week for treatment.

On September 7, the HC bench had reserved its order on Uppuganti's plea, saying it would consider her request "from all angles" permissible under the law.

It had said at the time that the fundamental right to protection of life and liberty guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution was applicable to everyone, including prisoners.

Uppuganti is an accused in the IED explosion attack case in Gadchiroli in the state on May 1, 2019 in which, 15 security personnel from the Gadchiroli Quick Response Team and one civilian were killed.

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The decision-making structures of the do not reflect the world as it stands today, eroding the voice of the global organisation itself, Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakashi Lekhi said, emphasising that it is regrettable the reform process is being thwarted by a handful of countries which only pay lip service to reform.

Lekhi, who is here on an official visit, said reform of the Security Council is a key aspect of India's engagement with the UN.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi had told the General Assembly last year, reform in the responses, in the processes, in the character of the is the need of the hour, she said.

"The simple fact is that it has been 75 years since the UN was founded. But its decision making structures, especially the Security Council, still remain stuck in 1945 and do not reflect the world as it stands today. This has eroded the voice of the itself, she told PTI in an exclusive interview.

Lekhi asserted that the Security Council has to reflect the realities of today to become more credible.

"Regrettably, the reform process is being thwarted by a handful of countries which only pay lip service to reform. By opposing Security Council reforms, they are actually doing a disservice to multilateralism, she said, without naming any country.

Referring to the clarion call made by Modi for reformed multilateralism, Lekhi said since there is overwhelming support among the Member States for reforms, we will be working with them to see how best to advance the reforms. I took this up with the Deputy Secretary-General as well in my meeting.

India, currently in the Security Council as a non-permanent member for a two-year term that began in January this year, was President of the 15-nation Council last month.

India has been at the forefront of the years-long efforts to reform the UN Security Council, saying it rightly deserves a place as a permanent member of the Council, which in its current form does not represent the geo-political realities of the 21st century.

Lekhi visited Colombia from September 4-6 and is in New York till September 9 on her first visit as Minister of State. She addressed the UN Security Council open debate on UN Peacekeeping Operations - Transitions, held under Ireland's current Presidency of the 15-nation Council Wednesday.

At the UN, she met briefly with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during the Council meeting as well as former President of Ireland Mary Robinson and former President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. She also had discussions with Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed and President-elect of the 76th session of the General Assembly Abdullah Shahid.

We discussed issues which are of mutual interest to us including our priorities and contributions to the UN, including the 76th General Assembly session which begins in a few days. We also touched on topical issues such as climate change, development and UN reforms, she said.

On her meeting with Shahid, Lekhi tweeted, Met President-elect of the 76th UNGA @abdulla_shahid. We discussed his vision and #PresidencyOfHope for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment.

Shahid tweeted that he discussed his priorities for the upcoming session of the General Assembly with Lekhi. India is a champion of multilateralism. And I am confident of India's support to the #PresidencyOfHope," he said in the tweet.

Glad to meet UN Deputy Secretary-General @Aminajmohammed today. We discussed multilateral and regional issues. Had fruitful exchange of views on Sustainable Development, Climate Change, COVID-19 response and UN reforms, she tweeted of her meeting with Mohammed.

Lekhi also met senior officials from the UN dealing with the United Nations Development Programme, Climate Change and Latin America and Central Asia.

Lekhi noted that India is the largest troop contributor to the UN peacekeeping operations in cumulative terms since their inception spread over 49 missions and 174 Indian peacekeepers have also made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Consequently, peacekeeping has been a priority for India during our stint in the Security Council, she said, adding that in the meeting on peacekeeping, she spoke about India's views on how to effectively manage the transition from peacekeeping to peacebuilding in the post-conflict period.

Lekhi added that her visit to Colombia was a significant one" for several reasons since it was her first visit to the South American country and to the Latin American region as the Minister of State for External Affairs.

I hope that the discussions I had with the Colombian side would give a boost to our relations, especially in the context of post-pandemic recovery. A broad range of issues were discussed during my visit, focusing especially on trade and commerce, cooperation in the energy sector, science and technology and healthcare, she said.

She termed as a significant outcome of the visit the signing of an MoU between India and Colombia on cooperation in the space sector.

India had launched Colombian nanosatellites earlier, and there was interest in expanding that cooperation further, she said, adding that there were also wide-ranging discussions on cooperation in the health sector including in the area of vaccines, as well as in areas such as traditional medicine, Ayurveda and Yoga.

I was also very impressed with the efforts being made by the Government towards peace and reconciliation, with support of the UN Verification Mission. In all, it was a very fruitful visit and I look forward to following up on the outcomes achieved.

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The government is taking all the possible steps to control the outbreak of viral fever in the state, said health minister Jai Pratap Singh on Wednesday.

Speaking to ANI, Singh said that door to door surveys will now be conducted to understand the problem in detail.

"We are taking all the possible steps to control the outbreak of viral fever in the state. Door to door surveys will be conducted and medicines will also be provided to the children," he said.

The minister informed that the government has noticed the loopholes in the working of the officials and that's the main reason for the viral outbreak in the city.

Amid the COVID-19 cases in Uttar Pradesh, the surge in viral fever cases has been reported amongst children in various hospitals of Lucknow.

Speaking on the viral fever cases, SK Nanda, Chief Medical Superintendent of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee hospital in Lucknow said, "Till now we have around 20 patients admitted due to viral fever and around 80 cases in the Out Patient Department (OPD)."

"The cases are not so severe right now and we are doing the platelet count to check the cases of dengue," he added.

He also reported that all the patients have to go through a mandatory RT-PCR test before getting admitted to the hospital.

Meanwhile, around 300 cases of dengue were reported in Moradabad, said Chief Medical Officer Dr M C Garg.

"The cases were not so severe but the doctors are trying their best to control the situation," he said.

Earlier on Monday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the Autonomous State Medical College in Firozabad to enquire about the health of children who were admitted there and instructed the officials concerned to send special teams to Mathura, Mainpuri, and Firozabad districts to take appropriate steps to contain vector-borne diseases.

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US acting ambassador Atul Keshap met chief on Wednesday.

After the meeting, Keshap said he held a "good discussion" with Bhagwat on how "India's tradition of diversity, democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism can ensure the vitality and strength of a truly great nation."



"Good discussion with @RSSorg Shri about how India's tradition of diversity, democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism can ensure the vitality and strength of a truly great nation," Keshap tweeted.

On Tuesday, Keshap met Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

"Pleasure to meet with @priyankagandhi and reflect on the long history of #USIndia friendship and cooperation," he tweeted after the meeting.

Keshap, the Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy, held a series of farewell meetings in the last few days as his tenure comes to an end.

"The #USIndia relationship has never been better. Working together, our two great democracies will continue to advance human happiness around the world for years to come. Thank you for your friendship!," he said.

The Biden administration has already announced nomination of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the next US Ambassador to India.

However, Garcetti's nomination is yet to receive confirmation from the US Senate.

Garcetti was co-chair of Biden's presidential campaign. He has been Mayor of Los Angeles since 2013.

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Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Thursday said he will be getting a report on the possible impact of infections in the state, and necessary action will be taken to control it.

"Regarding Nipah virus, I have given directions to the Health Secretary and experts. I will get a report on its behaviour in Kerala and its impact on us by this evening, following which necessary action will be taken," Bommai said. With confirmed cases of the (NiV) infection reported recently in neighboring Kerala, the government on Tuesday had directed district administrations, especially those bordering that state, to strengthen surveillance and preparedness. It said that all those coming from Kerala should be monitored for symptoms like fever, altered mental status, severe weakness, headache, respiratory distress, cough, vomiting, muscle pain, convulsion and diarrhea. In response to a question, Bommai said during his recent visit to Delhi, he discussed with BJP president J P Nadda on organising the party to win the upcoming elections (for zilla and taluk panchayats, local bodies) and there was no discussion regarding cabinet expansion this time. He termed his Delhi tour on September 7 and 8, during which he held meetings with several Union Ministers on issues concerning the state, as "successful". On his meetings with Union Ministers, the Chief Minister said the Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR) project from Dabaspet to Mysuru Road that was pending for over two years has now has been cleared and the work will start in four to five months. The Centre has also agreed for extending the Vijayapura-Sankeshwar highway and DPR will be prepared soon, and four highways will be developed under the Bharatmala project. On his meeting with the Minister of State in the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology(MeitY), Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Bommai said "we discussed a special programme for rural connectivity, to develop a hardware park between Bengaluru and Kolar, and to set up a skill university." Pointing out that Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri has released Rs 400 crore under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban, the CM said Rs 1,500 crore has still to be released.

Discussions have been held with the Railway Minister regarding suburban railway and development of Byappanahalli station, besides works on some major railway lines in the state, he further said, adding that during his meeting with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman he sought extending the GST compensation period to states beyond 2022.

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Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said that the state government must scientifically prove that the history of the Indian subcontinent commenced from Tamil landscape. He was speaking in the legislative assembly on Thursday.

Stalin was encouraged by the carbon dating analysis of rice with soil found in a burial urn in Sivakalai in Tirunelveli district that has yielded the date of 1155 BC. He said that the findings have established that the Porunai river (Thamirabarani) civilization dates back 3200 years.

The Beta Testing Laboratory in Miami, US, had released the test report on August 27. Stalin said that archaeological surveys must be carried out in other states and in foreign countries in search of Tamil roots there.

He said in the first phase research would be conducted in Kerala at the ancient port of Musiri now known as Pattanam. He said, "The research for this will be done jointly with the archaeologists of Kerala to establish the ancientness and culture of the Chola country." Similar studies would be undertaken at Thalaikadu in Karnataka, Vengi in Andhra Pradesh, and Palur in Odisha.

Stalin informed that the state archaeological department would conduct research in Quseir-al-Qadim and Pernica Aneka in Egypt that was once part of the Roman empire. He said that research would be conducted in Khor Rori in Oman to establish the trade relations that Tamils had with these countries.

The CM said that pottery shards with Tamizhi script have been found in these countries and studies would be conducted along with the archaeologists of those countries regarding the connection between Tamils and the people there.

Studies would also be undertaken in South East Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia where the Chola King Rajendra Chola had established himself.

Stalin announced that a museum would be set up at Tirunelveli at a cost of Rs 15 crore to display the archaeological artifacts found at the excavation sites of Adichanallur, Sivakalai and Korkai.

--IANS

aal/bg

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Amidst continued protests by farmers over the three farm laws, Union minister on Thursday said agricultural reforms by the central government will bring a revolution in the lives of the country's farmers.

While Tomar refused to comment on the ongoing agitation and the remarks of Bhartiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Takait, he said everyone was free to voice their opinion in the country.

"Anyone can say anything in India. Every person has freedom. Agricultural reforms will bring a revolution in the lives of the country's farmers. These laws have been brought after 30 years of 'saadhana aur vimarsh' (meditation and discussions)," the Union agriculture minister told reporters here.

The minister was here to attend a meeting of the consultative committee on agriculture.

Asked why he had not approached the protesting farmers for a dialogue, Tomar said, "I have said what I had to say before and will not say anything on the subject."



Batting for private investment in the agriculture sector, Tomar said there was no reform in the sector for a long time and the doors for private investment were almost closed.

"There is investment from the government, but unless private investment and hardwork do not join together, no sector moves forward.

"Private investment in any sector will increase employment opportunities, small farmers will be able to use technology and get attracted to costlier crops and produce crops according to global standards," he said.

He said the government was setting up 10,000 farmer producer organisations (FPO) and will spend Rs 6,850 crore on them.

"These FPOs will change the status of lives of small farmers, decrease his costs, increase his power of bargaining," he said.

Tomar said small farmers, having less than two hectares of farm land, comprise 85 per cent of the total farmers in the country.

"Our farmer is a hard worker and governments have also made attempts, which has resulted in our country becoming a surplus nation when it comes to food grains. On a global scale, we are number one or two in terms of agriculture production," he said.

Tomar said there was a time when the government's policies were production-oriented, but now India is in a great position as far as production is concerned, so, the government of India has decided to frame policies focussing on the income of farmers.

"The prime minister has said the central and state governments have to work along with farmers to double their income by 2022, he added.

Under the PM-Kisan yojana, he said, the government has so far deposited Rs 1.58 lakh crore in over 11 crore farmers accounts.

The agriculture minister said the government has implemented the agriculture infrastructure scheme and till now, proposals worth Rs 10,000 crores from states have been received and about Rs 5,000 crores worth of proposals have been by accepted and work is in progress on them.

He also assured that the Centre stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the farmers in Kashmir.

"Let them move forward and take Kashmir forward as well," he said.

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A BRICS report has made a strong case for developing a safe digital architecture with a view to gain the trust of stakeholders and promote among the member nations.

India is the current chair of the BRICS.

In the Second BRICS Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting held on August 26, 2021, the RBI tabled the 'Report on Digital in BRICS'; the e-Booklet on BRICS Information Security Regulations; and the Compendium of BRICS Best Practices on Information Security Risks: Supervision and Control. The reports were prepared by the respective teams of the BRICS central banks.

The report on 'Digital in BRICS', uploaded on the RBI website, notes that the COVID-19 pandemic has enhanced the focus on all aspects of digital financial inclusion.

There has been accelerated use of digital financial services mainly due to the relaxations and innovative approach adopted by the authorities, private players adopting the remote business and payment models and an increase in first-time consumers due to lockdown and social distancing protocols.

"While these are encouraging developments, the challenges of bridging the digital divide have got amplified.

"The risk of cyber incidents, online frauds, illicit financial flows and data privacy have come to the fore with increase in customer uptake as most of these technologies and platforms are relatively new and evolving," it said.

It further said that as the countries emerge from the pandemic, the digital financial system will have a crucial role to fulfil the aspirations and needs of our economies recovering from the pandemic.

At the same time, these new technologies must be designed and implemented with adequate safeguards so as not to exacerbate the risk of further marginalising the excluded section.

"Going ahead, the authorities have to focus on a robust and safe architecture to strengthen the trust of the stakeholders which will help in broadening the coverage and impact of digital financial inclusion," said the report.

The BRICS grouping comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The e-booklet on Information Security Regulations and the Compendium of BRICS Best Practices on Information Security Risks covers information security regulations and best practices across the BRICS jurisdictions, with the objective of strengthening the cyber incidents management systems.

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Indias economic recovery, impacted by the second wave of Covid-19, will be faster in the next three quarters even if a third wave hits the country, the has said. This confidence, it said, was mainly due to the intensification of the vaccination drive and several economic parameters returning to pre-Covid levels.

Rapidly increasing vaccination coverage and richer experience with pandemic management provide the confidence that the recovery can continue even in the event of a third wave, the finance ministrys Department of Economic Affairs said in its monthly review for August.

However, the ministry raised concern about the high incidence of Covid cases in Kerala and Maharastra, and emphasised the need for pandemic management in the two states.

The report noted that the momentum of was disrupted by the second wave in the second half of 2020-21, but the rapid surge in vaccination in Q4 FY21 and in the first quarter of FY22 contained the sequential decline in output.

Indias gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 20 per cent in the first quarter of the current financial year, reaffirming the economys resilient V-shaped recovery despite a more brutal second wave, it said.

Talking about sectors, the report stated that the agriculture sector continued to grow strong. A sharp rebound in the manufacturing and construction sectors places them firmly as growth drivers demonstrate the structural strengthening of the economy, it said.





ALSO READ: Is India looking at a V or W-shaped economic recovery in FY22?



While the revival of contact-intensive services sectors remains gradual, it is poised to gain pace on the back of rapid inoculation and the governments targeted relief measures for the stressed sectors.

Record-high paddy procurement and increasing tractor sales augur well for strengthened rural demand in the coming months, it said, adding that industry was steadily gaining lost ground with June's IIP witnessing a broad-based growth, having recovered close to 95 per cent of the pre-pandemic levels of June 2019.

The index of eight core industries for July 2021 rose 9.4 per cent year-on-year (YoY), with all sectors except crude oil and refinery products surpassing pre-pandemic levels, it said.

Going forward, the fast-paced recovery is further evident in growth of power consumption, rail freight, highway toll collections, e-way bills, digital transactions, air passenger traffic, and robust GST collections.

The report pointed out that robust recovery in tax collections augurs well for the government to provide the required budgeted support to the economy. The recent decision to repeal the retrospective tax law further reflects the commitment of the government towards providing a stable and predictable tax regime for all stakeholders, it said.

However, the looming fear around the Delta variant of Covid-19 has once again cast a shadow, necessitating sustained precautions with greater focus on testing, tracking and adopting appropriate behaviour.
The board of Airport Authority of India has given approval to privatise 13 This is the first major asset monetisation exercise by the government as part of the National Monetisation Pipeline. The government is aiming for private investment of Rs 3,660 crore in by FY24.

The board has approved of six major airports-- Bhubaneshwar, Varanasi, Amritsar, Trichy, Indore, Raipuralong with seven smaller ones in Jharsuguda, Gaya, Kushinagar, Kangra, Tirupati, Jabalpur and Jalgaon, according to sources. The smaller will be clubbed with the six major airports for scale and size, thereby making it attractive for investors.

will now appoint a consultant to prepare the bid document and determine the concession period and reserve price. The bids are likely to be called by early 2022.

This is the first time the model of clubbing major airports with smaller ones will be used in the airport exercise. To ensure commensurate development of non-profitable airports along with the profitable airports with the help of private sector investment and participation, pairing /clubbing of smaller airports with each of the six bigger airports and leasing out as a package is being explored, the National Monetisation Pipeline document prepared by Niti Ayog had said.

While Jharsuguda airport will be bundled with Bhubaneswar, Kushinagar and Gaya airports will be clubbed with Varanasi. Kangra, Amritsar, Jalgaon and Trichy airports will be clubbed with Raipur Jabalpur, Indore, and Tirupati airports, respectively.

Prospective investors and consultants said airports would see good participation from bidders, though there will be pressure on valuation. They pointed out that Varanasi along with Gaya and Kushinagar will attract investor interest as all three airports fall on the Buddhist circuit and typically get international visitors.

"This round of could very well be the last chance for an entity looking to enter India's airport sector. With returns assured on aero assets, some of the existing players will look to increase their scale rather than allowing fresh entrants and competition," said Jagannarayan Padmanabhan, director and practice leader (transport and logistics) at Crisil.





Regulatory regime followed in India gives airport developers a return on investments to upgrade assets through passenger fees, landing and parking charges as well as fuel charges. The return remains fairly visible and stable, according to analysts.

Sidharath Kapur, an infrastructure expert and former executive director of GMR Airports, said while the exercise may attract interest due to growth potential of the six profit-making airports, the model of clubbing the big and the small entities may lead to a decrease in valuation. In any case, the valuations are down during the pandemic, he added.

The smaller loss-making airports have negligible traffic and will remain a cash drain for many years. Potential bidders will factor this in the bundle and may negate the bundle value more than on a sum of parts independent basis, Kapur said. While pointing out that an airport needs at least 2-3 million passengers to make it viable, he said it would be better to monetise the profit-making airports at higher value. Such a move would help support the loss- making airports till the time they can be monetized, according to Kapur.

In the last round of privatisation, Adani group bid aggressively to win all six airports- Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Mangaluru, and Guwahati. The bid amount in some cases was double that of the second highest bid.

According to rating agency Icra, the aggressive bidding would result in a windfall for the AAI, which could earn more than Rs 600 crore per year as concession fees from the Adani group.

However, a senior government official involved in NMP said the government had done a study and gauged investor appetite in airport projects following the impact of Covid-19 on aviation. The study showed that despite the decline in passenger traffic and revenue of airports due to the pandemic, investor interest continues to remain stable.
India, the world's second largest sugar producer, can export 6 million tonne of the sweetener in the 2021-22 season commencing next month, taking advantage of the firm global market, industry body said on Thursday.

The country exported about 6.67 million tonne of sugar in the first 11 months of the 2020-21 season (October-September), higher than the 5.57 million tonne shipment made in the year-ago period.

Total in the current season could surpass 7 million tonne, it said.

Currently, global prices are ruling a more than four-year high at round 20 cents per pound due to likely sugar deficit in the world market in the next season on expected fall in production in Brazil, it added.

"This would mean that Indian sugar mills have a good opportunity to export their surplus sugar in the next couple of months up to January 2022, and thereafter till April 2022 before Brazilian sugar comes into the market," Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) said in a statement.

Many sugar mills have signed forward contracts for export in the upcoming season, it said.

"It is therefore believed and expected that Indian sugar mills will avail this opportunity and will be able to export to the tune of 6 million tonne of sugar during the next season also," it added.

said global sugar prices are expected to remain bullish on reports of likely fall in production in Brazil, the world's largest producer of the sweetener, owing to dry weather conditions.

Brazil is facing dry weather conditions due to drought followed by incidence of frost in the current 2021-22 season (April-March). It is also reported that Brazil's next sugar season may also get affected due to the worst ever drought in the country in the last 90 years.

"Due to this, many global agencies including International Sugar Organisation (ISO) have projected a higher sugar deficit to the tune of 4-5 million tonne in the 2021-22 season," said.

Further, in Thailand is likely to increase in the next season as compared to previous years, but still will be lower than its normal production of 14-14.5 million tonnes, by almost 33.5 million tonne, ISMA said, adding that Thailand sugar would come into the market only after January 2022.

According to ISMA, the country exported 6.67 million tonne of exports till August of the ongoing 2020-21 season ending this month.

Out of which, 6.22 million tonne was exported under quota assigned by the Food Ministry and some quantity under open general licence scheme.

As of September 6, another 2,29,000 tonne of sugar is at the ports, either loaded on to vessels or in the godowns waiting for more vessels to arrive.

"This would mean that considering that another 20 days are left in the current season, total exports in the current season could cross 7 million tonne," ISMA said.

Of the total exports, India exported 3.42 million tonne raw sugar, 2.56 million tonne of white sugar and 1,88,000 tonne of refined sugar, it added.

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Union Power and New & Minister R K Singh on Thursday met his Danish counterpart Dan Jrgensen where both agreed on further engagement in renewable energy, especially offshore wind and green hydrogen.

"Union Minister for Power and New and R K Singh met with Dan Jrgensen, Danish Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities, here today (Thursday)," the Ministry of New and said in a statement.

Both the ministers agreed to further engagement in renewable energy, especially offshore wind and green hydrogen, it added.

In the meeting, from the India side, Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Bhagwanth Khuba, MNRE Secretary Indu Shekhar Chaturvedi and other senior officials of the ministries of power and MNRE were also present.

The Danish minister was also accompanied by a delegation of officials.

Singh underlined to the Danish side that energy transition towards green is an important part of India's policy.

He pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech has set a target of 450 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030.

The minister went on to say that already our whole renewable energy portfolio is at 146 GW.

He stated that India is the only G20 country whose actions are in consonance with the Paris Climate agreement with regard to the global rise in temperature.

Discussing the potential of green energy, Singh said India is looking at making Ladakh and islands such as Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep green in energy including transport.

The two ministers jointly launched the 'Centre of Excellence on Offshore Wind' as part of the Green Strategic Partnership.

This Centre will at the outset be centred around four working groups, including spatial planning, financial framework conditions, supply chain infrastructure and standards, and testing.

In the initial phases, the centre of excellence (CoE) will focus on the offshore wind sector.

In the medium to long term, the vision is that the Centre will broaden to include a wider group of international governments and players, accumulating experience and best practices on offshore wind and become an international centre for offshore wind and with broader links to new and renewable energy.

Both sides agreed to further their cooperation in renewable energy with a focus on offshore

The two countries already have an agreement on 'Strategic Sector Cooperation in the field of Renewable Energy with a focus on Offshore Wind Energy'.

The Danish minister also invited Singh to Denmark to take a first-hand look at Denmark's work in offshore

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India and Germany will make concerted efforts to build stronger energy and climate partnerships, Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav said on Thursday after a meeting with German Parliamentary State Secretaries Maria Flachsbarth and Norbert Barthle.

He also said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Angela Merkel, interactions between India and Germany have reached new heights.

"Had a deep and meaningful interaction with German Parliamentary State Secretaries Ms Maria Flachsbarth and Mr Norbert Barthle on @COP26, circular economy, waste management and other issues related to environment and climate change," Yadav tweeted after the meeting here.

He said, "Under the leadership of PM Shri @NarendraModi Ji and her Excellency Chancellor Angela Merkel, interactions between India and Germany have reached new heights and both sides today stressed on the need to make concerted efforts to build our energy and climate partnership stronger.

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The High Court urged central government to hold a meeting of the Chief Secretaries of and Uttar Pradesh on September 15 regarding the distribution of assets between the two states.

The plea filed by Employees Union stated that the Transport Corporation failed to pay six months salary to its employees and the assets were not yet distributed in Uttarakhand-Uttar Pradesh.

While hearing the plea on Wednesday, the High Court asked the central government to inform about the outcome of the meeting on September 16.

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The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore has joined in the top-50 list of the latest Global Full-Time MBA Rankings by one of the leading global business school analysts QS Quacquarelli Symonds.

Composing the world's 286 strongest global MBA offerings, the latest rankings have seen the likes of IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Calcutta along with the Indian School of Business (ISB) improve their performances over the previous year.

While both and Bangalore moved up four places to be ranked at 46th and 50th globally, IIM Calcutta improved three places to 76th rank from the previous 79. ISB, on the other hand, improved one place from 93rd position last year to 92nd position this year. The other Indian B-schools ranked include IIM Indore and SPJIMR in the 151-200 band and IIM Lucknow in the 201-250 band.

Along with the Global Full-Time MBA, QS also released a series of specialised high-demand Business Masters rankings, including Masters in Business Analytics, Masters in Marketing, and Masters in Finance.

In the Masters in Management (MIM) rankings, IIM Ahmedabad, Bangalore and Calcutta's two year flagship programmes were ranked at 31st, 35th and 51st spots.

With employability as a central metric by which programs are judged, the results are designed by QS to provide insight to those wishing to undertake a course of study in a career-enhancing qualification in high demand among employers.





ALSO READ: NIRF Rankings 2021: IIT Madras continues to be India's best institute

Globally, Stanford Graduate School of Business was named the worlds number-one MBA program for the second consecutive year in the Global Full-Time MBA table. The upper echelons of the table remain dominatedby American programs, with Harvard Business School rising from 4th to joint-second, shared with The Wharton School.





According to Nunzio Quacquarelli, CEO at QS Quacquarelli Symonds, buffeted by the shock and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, consumers are increasingly conscious of the value of well-managed, high-functioning global supply chains. Whether it is companies seeking to distribute Covid-19 vaccines, or quickly emerging e-commerce startups, companies around the world are responding to times of global crisis by hiring those who can optimize and innovate their supply chains in ever-greater numbers.

"In this way, a Masters in Supply Chain Management follows data analytics, marketing, finance, and management as being a highly desirable qualification for employers, and a sensible next study step for those wishing to elevate their career to new heights. This latest portfolio of QSs rankings responds to the increasing interest in these disciplines by providing independent, trusted comparative data to the worlds students," he added.

The Global Full-Time MBA Rankings also saw HEC Paris rank at 4th place, making it Continental Europes best MBA program while the United Kingdoms number one provider remained London Business School at 6th place.

Meanwhile, at 26th place, Melbourne Business School was Asia-Pacific's best full-time MBA offering with only two other Asia-Pacific full-time MBA programs ranked by QS among the global top 30 including National University of Singapore at 28th place and Nanyang Technological University at 29th.
Dozens of foreigners, including Americans, have left on an commercial flight, marking the first large-scale evacuation since US and NATO forces left late last month. Their departure on Thursday represented a breakthrough in the bumpy coordination between the US and Afghanistans new leaders. The have said they would let foreigners and Afghans with valid travel documents leave, but a dayslong standoff over charter planes at another airport had cast some doubt on assurances. The Qatar Airways flight is heading to Doha. A senior US official said that Americans, green card holders and other nationalities including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians are on the flight. Some 200 foreigners, including Americans, boarded the commercial flight from airport. A dayslong stand-off over charter planes at another airport had left dozens of passengers stranded and cast doubt on Taliban assurances to allow foreigners and Afghans with proper travel documents to leave the country. A senior US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorised to brief the media, provided the number of Westerners on board and said that two very senior Taliban officials had helped facilitate the departure.

Americans, green card holders and other nationalities including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians were on the flight, the official said.
Russian President on Thursday in his address at the 13th said that should not become a threat to its neighbouring countries and stressed that the US withdrawal has led to a new crisis in the region.

Virtually speaking at the summit chaired by India, Putin said, " should not become a threat to its neighbouring countries, a source of terrorism and drug trafficking."

"Outstanding regional conflicts have not stopped, on the contrary, they have erupted again becoming more violent. The US and its allies' withdrawal from has led to a new crisis and it's still unclear how will this affect regional and global security," he stressed.

Putin added that Russia like its BRICS partners have consistently spoken for establishing a long-awaited peace and stability on Afghan soil.

"The citizens of this country have fought for decades and deserve to exercise the right of defining what their state will look like on their own," he noted.

Putin also expressed his concerns for global security saying that it faced serious challenges and the system of strategic stability has gone all downhill.

He also reiterated Russia's contribution to enhancing cooperation with member states.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired the annual summit of BRICS leaders which was held under the theme 'BRICS@15: Intra-BRICS cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus'.

Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping participated in the meeting.

(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.)
Russian President on Thursday slammed the US and its allies for creating a "new crisis" in and told the BRICS leaders that they have to pay "special attention" to the situation in the war-ravaged country to prevent it from becoming a source of terrorism and drug trafficking.

Speaking at the 13th presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi via video link, Putin said, "Russia, just like its BRICS partners, consistently supports the establishment of the long-awaited peace and stability in

"The US and its allies withdrawal from has led to a new crisis and it is still unclear how this will affect regional and global security," Putin said, adding "that is why it is for good reason that our countries have paid special attention to this issue."



Afghanistan should not become a threat to its neighbours, a source of terrorism and drug trafficking, he emphasised at the summit of the five-member bloc.

He said Afghan citizens have fought for decades and deserve to exercise the rights of defining what their state will look like on their own.

Putin said is interested in stopping the exodus of Afghans from the country after the Taliban takeover last month.

"I am confident that we can ensure progressive development of the relations only through guaranteeing the co-existence of states with different political and social systems," he told the BRICS meeting which was also attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro.

"We must strictly observe the fundamental principles of law enshrined in the UN charter, including non-interference into the internal affairs and respect for sovereignty," he added.

The BRICS meeting comes two days after the Taliban on Tuesday unveiled a hardline interim government with at least 14 members of the Cabinet, including acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, being listed on the UN Security Council's terrorism blacklist.

The Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in mid-August, ousting the previous elected leadership which was backed by the West.

US President Joe Biden has vigorously defended the chaotic withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan after nearly 20 years of conflict, describing it as the best and the right decision for America.

The Taliban, ousted from power by the US shortly after the 9/11 attacks, now control nearly all of the country.

India is this year's chair for the five-member bloc that holds the rotating Presidency. This was the second time Prime Minister Modi chaired the Earlier, he had chaired the Goa summit in 2016.

The BRICS bloc brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41 per cent of the global population, 24 per cent of the global GDP and 16 per cent of the global trade.

Putin also said that is ready to continue cooperation with its partners in the BRICS group in all fields, asserting that the strengthening of cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus is the goal that the entire community is striving to achieve.

He said that the theme that India chose for the meeting and the entire year, that is, the strengthening of cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus, is quite relevant, Russia's official TASS news agency reported.

"In fact, this is the goal that the entire international community is facing and five BRICS members play a significant and notable role in achieving this goal," the Russian president said.

"I expect our work today to be substantive and fruitful and I would like to point out once again that is ready to continue close cooperation with all BRICS members in all fields," Putin said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
About 30 airports have been either built or under construction in and provinces which will boost China's civil and military infrastructure in the remote regions bordering India, the country's official media reported.

has been ramping up infrastructure in Recently, it has launched the high speed bullet train connecting the provincial capital Lhasa with Nyingchi, the Tibetan border town close to Arunachal Pradesh.

"There are currently nearly 30 civil airports built or under construction in and Tibet," state-run Chinamil online quoted an official in charge of a military transportation dispatch centre under the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Western Theatre Command (WTC) as saying.

"The rapid development of civil aviation in the border areas has provided convenience for the air transportation of recruits and veterans," the PLA official said.

The WTC oversees the and the autonomous regions as well as the border with India, making it the largest geographical area under one command in the PLA.

The massive development of rail, road and airport infrastructure was expected to vastly improve the Chinese military's ability to move men, materials and weapons to the border areas at a faster pace.

President Xi Jinping recently visited Nyingchi, becoming the first Chinese leader to visit the border areas in Tibet.

A chartered flight carrying 115 veterans took off from the Shigatse Heping Airport in Tibet and headed for Chengdu, Sichuan Province, on September 1, marking the official opening of 23 air routes for transporting new recruits and veterans into and out of Xinjiang and Tibet, the Chinamil online report said.

After coordinating with airports in Urumqi, Kashgar, Lhasa, Shigatse and other places, the dispatch centre has opened up 23 routes to transport military recruits and veterans into and out of Xinjiang and Tibet this year, and temporarily opened three routes from Yinchuan, Jiayuguan, and Zhangye to Ngari, it said.

This year, all the recruits and veterans entering and exiting the Ngari area of Tibet will be transported by air, it said.

In addition, some airlines help to reserve tickets of regular flights to Ngari in response to the troops' emergency needs, it said adding that some urgently needed military supplies could also be delivered free of charge or at preferential rates by the civil airliners.

(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.)
President on Thursday said that will take over as the chair of next year and host the 14th summit of the bloc in 2022.

looks forward to working with partners to deepen cooperation in all areas and build a closer and more results-oriented partnership to meet common challenges and create a better future, Xi said while addressing the 13th summit via video link, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The13th BRICS summit is presided over by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, and South Africa) countries that hold the summit every year rotate the presidency.

India is this year's chair of the BRICS.

The summit was also attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro.

The theme of the summit was "Intra-BRICS cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus."



The summit this year coincides with the 15th anniversary of the BRICS.

The BRICS brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41 per cent of the global population, 24 per cent of the global GDP and 16 per cent of the global trade.

This was the second time Prime Minister Modi chaired the BRICS summit. Earlier, he had chaired the Goa summit in 2016.

(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.)
America's Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns on Thursday met Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hamid during which they discussed issues related to regional security issues and the current situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

The meeting was held after the on Tuesday unveiled a hardline interim government with at least 14 members of the Cabinet, including acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, being listed on the UN Security Council's terrorism blacklist.

Burns and Bajwa exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, regional security and the current situation in Afghanistan, the Army's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement.

Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Hamid was also present during the meeting, it said.

It was reiterated that remains committed to cooperate with its partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for (the) Afghan people, the statement said.

Burns' Islamabad visit came days after the ISI chief dashed to Kabul on an unannounced visit last week and met leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. It is the first high-level visit by a US official to Pakistan after the completion of its withdrawal from on August 31.

Before coming to Pakistan, US intelligence chief Burns, accompanied by a few officials, reportedly paid a quiet visit to India, primarily to discuss ways to mitigate security threats that may emanate from

It was learnt that Burns held talks with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and a number of senior officials of the National Security Secretariat on Tuesday. However, there was no official statement on the visit by either the Indian security establishment or the US embassy in New Delhi.

(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.)
European stocks pared losses after the said it will slow down the pace of its pandemic bond-buying program in a sign of confidence in the regions economic recovery.



The Stoxx 600 Europe Index was 0.2% lower by 2:15 p.m. in London. It had earlier dropped as much as 0.9%. Cyclical sectors were mainly under pressure, with energy stocks dropping the most, while travel and leisure declined, weighed down by an 11% slump in EasyJet Plc after the airline announced a share sale and said it rejected a takeover approach.

Lagarde Points to December Meeting for Full PEPP Review: TOPLive

The ECB on Thursday decided to conduct purchases at a moderately lower pace than in the previous two quarters. Officials also reiterated a pledge to keep the 1.85 trillion-euro program running until March 2022 or later if needed, signaling theyre not yet ready to discuss how and when to end emergency stimulus. This is a relief for equity investors that have been concerned that stimulus measures might get pulled back more quickly.

The ECB is slowing the pace of its emergency asset purchase program. But this is not a tapering decision, said Elga Bartsch, head of macro research at the BlackRock Investment Institute. ECB asset purchases look here to stay as the new policy framework paves the way for looser for longer monetary policy in the euro area.

The ECB President Christine Lagarde said the economy in the region will return to pre-crisis levels by year-end.

The Stoxx 600, up 16% this year, has stalled after hitting an all-time high in August. Equities in the region have fallen with global peers this week on mounting fears over the recovery and reduced support expected from central banks.





There is a sense of pessimism throughout equity In recent days the rally has seemed to lose momentum, said Lewis Grant, senior portfolio manager at Federated Hermes. Fears that the spreading delta strain is curtailing the pace of the post-pandemic recovery, along with the prospect of dwindling central-bank stimulus, has left investors questioning the markets elevated valuation.

The ECBs stance sets it apart from that of the Federal Reserve, whose policy makers are preparing to start a wind-down of asset purchases later this year.

The ECB has taken its first meaningful step towards tapering today. Characteristically, it hasnt tied itself to a specific pace of purchase, instead retaining an element of flexibility which will be helpful in the face of a potential tightening in financial conditions as Fed taper draws near, said Seema Shah, chief strategist at Principal Global Investors.

Among individual share moves, Prosus NV dropped 5.9% in Amsterdam as partly owned Tencent slumped in Hong Kong after Chinese regulators summoned gaming companies to discuss further oversight of the industry. Assa Abloy AB advanced 4.8%, the most since February, as the Swedish lockmaker acquired Spectrum Brands Inc.s hardware and home-improvement division.

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The first in-person summit of the leaders of the Quad countries is likely to take place in on September 24 with a focus to chart a new roadmap for expanding the overall cooperation in diverse areas, diplomatic sources said on Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Japanese PM Yoshihide Suga are expected to deliberate extensively to give a new momentum to the functioning of the Quad at the summit, they said.

Modi is likely to travel to during which he is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly in New York and hold a bilateral meeting with President Biden besides participating in the Quad Summit on September 24, according to sources.

However, there is no official announcement about Modi's visit as well as on the Quad summit from the Indian side.

India and the US held a series of meetings as part of preparations for Modi's visit to the US and it is learnt that the issue also figured during Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla's recent visit to

The US has been looking at convening the in-person summit of the leaders of Quad to boost practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region as well as to send a strong signal about Washington's commitment to the grouping.

In March, President Biden hosted the first-ever summit of the Quad leaders in the virtual format that vowed to strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is free, open, inclusive, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion, sending a subtle message to China.

The last time Modi visited the US was in September 2019 when he and then US President Donald Trump addressed the Howdy Modi event in Houston.

(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.)
Holdings and Netease shed more than $60 billion of value as investor fears grow that Chinese regulators are preparing to tighten their grip dramatically on the worlds largest

Chinese regulators summoned industry executives to a Wednesday meeting to instruct them to break their solitary focus on profit and prevent minors from becoming addicted to games, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.

Regulators also said will slow down approvals for all new online games, the South Morning Post reported on Thursday, updating an earlier report that said there was a freeze on approvals. The reports accelerated a stock selloff that began in the morning, although Xinhua made no mention of the approval suspension. Investors are already on edge because of a ten-month government campaign to rein in industries from e-commerce and ride-hailing to social media.

Metaverse warning



Separately on Thursday, Chinese state media cautioned investors against blindly buying Chinese stocks hoping to profit from the metaverse, a virtual shared space based on virtual technologies.

The commentary by the official Securities Times follows a recent surge in stocks, such as Shenzhen Zhongqingbao Interaction Network and Perfect World that areperceived as developing the metaverse. Shares in related stocks tumbled, with Wondershare Technology falling by nearly 11 per cent.
Plc rejected a takeover approach from Wizz Air Holdings Plc, according to people familiar with the plan, as its Hungarian discount rival sought to take advantage of a recovery in the short-haul aviation industry.

The preliminary offer was conditional, all-stock and had a low premium, said Thursday in a statement without identifying the bidder. It was rejected unanimously by the board and has been withdrawn, the U.K. airline said.

Shares of fell as much as 14%, as the company said it will instead raise $2 billion in stock and debt. The money will provide a buffer for EasyJet to get through the slow winter season and position it for a tentative rebound in leisure travel.

Representatives for Wizz Air and EasyJet declined to comment on the offer.

Independent Path

The decision to go it alone marks a gamble for EasyJet and its leadership, which has come under fire for its management of the coronavirus crisis from top shareholder and founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou. European airlines are ripe for consolidation, with fresh outbreaks continuing to impede a return to travel and forcing carriers to raise more funding to stay afloat.

EasyJets network and customer reach combined with Wizzs low-cost management style would be a winning combination, Bernstein analyst Daniel Roeska said in a note Thursday. It would definitely be a major shake-up of the European space.

While potentially beneficial for profits, a takeover would probably be met with significant cultural reservations on the targets side, Roeska said.

EasyJet shares dropped 11% to 701.20 pence as of 10:10 a.m. in London. The company said it will pursue a rights offering of 1.2 billion pounds ($1.65 billion) and raise $400 million in debt.

Wizzs London-listed shares of Wizz slid 4% to 4,778 pence.

Travel Rebound

Short-haul travel in Europe has partly rebounded during summer, but the comeback has been spotty. Luton-based EasyJet has been held back by changing U.K. travel rules. Budapest-based Wizz, meanwhile, is back above 100% of its pre-pandemic capacity, and Ryanair Holdings Plc, the Dublin-based low-cost giant, plans to expand over the winter.

Wizz, run by Chief Executive Officer Jozsef Varadi, is part of the constellation of low-cost airlines that count Bill Franke as their top investor. He chairs the company as well as Denver-based Frontier Group Holdings Inc., which went public earlier this year.

The companys roots in Eastern Europe have given Wizz a lower cost base than even Ryanair. That edge has helped Wizz expand west, establishing bases in Austria, Italy and the U.K., where a bid to expand at EasyJets main Gatwick hub has been held back by a lack of access to operating slots.
By Naveen Thukral

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - rose for a second session on Thursday, recovering from earlier losses as a decline in U.S. Gulf of Mexico output following damages from Hurricane Ida underpinned the market.

Brent added 26 cents, or 0.36% to $72.86 a barrel at 0616 GMT and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose 12 cents, or 0.17%, to $69.42 a barrel.

"U.S. production is struggling to recover from Hurricane Ida," ANZ said in a note. "Extensive damage to infrastructure and power outages mean Ida has knocked off more supply after nine days than any other storm."

About 77% of U.S. Gulf production remained offline on Tuesday, or about 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd). The market has lost about 17.5 million barrels of oil so far.

The Gulf's offshore wells make up about 17% of U.S. output.

U.S. crude is expected to fall by 200,000 barrels per day in 2021 to 11.08 million bpd, the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) said on Wednesday, noting that Hurricane Ida should force a bigger decline than its previous forecast for a drop of 160,000 bpd.

American Petroleum Institute (API) data showed that crude drawdown for the week ended Sept. 3 was smaller than expected in a Reuters poll, but gasoline and distillate drawdowns were bigger than expected.

API data showed U.S. gasoline stocks fell by 6.4 million barrels for the week ended Sept. 3, while crude stocks dropped by 2.9 million barrels.

U.S. distillate stocks fell by 3.7 million barrels over the same week, API data showed.

On Wednesday, oil was also supported as protesters in Libya blocked oil exports at Es Sider and Ras Lanuf, an oil engineer at each of the ports said, although other engineers said production at fields that supply the terminals was unaffected.

(Reporting by Naveen Thukral; Editing by Ana Nicolaci da Costa and Michael Perry)

(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 interim government of the Islamic Emirates of (IEA) is likey to take oath of office on September 11, a day which also marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the US in 2001.

As per reports, the newly-formed government has rolled out invitations to various countries to be part of the oath-taking ceremony, including China, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Qatar, India and interestingly, the US.

announced the names of their interim government officials, emphasising that the formation in will be under a caretaker setup. The are seeking recognition and have called on the countries to reopen their embassies in the war-torn nation.

"We recognise that peace and stability are must for investments. We want good relations with all the neighbours, including China," said Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban.

"The war has ended, the country is getting out of the crisis. It is now the time for peace and reconstruction. We need people to support us. has the right to be recognised. The community should open their embassies in Kabul," he added.

However, the community is still not ready to recognise the announced interim government of the Taliban and has raised questions over non-inclusivity of various other ethnic groups. It is also not happy with the representation of various old guards of the Taliban in the new setup, who carry bounty on their heads and are listed as proscribed terrorists by the Untied Nations and other global platforms.

The interim Prime Minister, Mohammad Hassan Akhund, is under UN sanctions. Sirajuddin Haqqani, named the acting Interior Minister, is on FBI's most-wanted list with a bounty of $10 million on his head. Khalil Haqqani, appointed as the acting Minister for Refugees, also carries a $5 million bounty on his head.

There are many others in the list in senior positions who are either members of the US-designated terror groups, or are on international sanctions lists, or are former Guantanamo inmates.

The US, meanwhile, has said that it is assessing the announcement of an interim government in Afghanistan and is concerned about some individuals for their affiliations and track records.

"We note the list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women," stated the US State Department spokesperson.

On the other hand, the Taliban have lashed out at the international criticism against the members of their interim setup, especially the US, who they say are violating the Doha peace agreement by not recognising the interim Taliban government.

--IANS

hamza/arm

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
At 8.40 am, SGX Nifty was trading 52 points down at 17,330, indicating a tepid start for the benchmark indices on Thursday.

Here are the top stocks to track in today's session:

UCO Bank: The Reserve Bank on Wednesday removed from its Prompt Corrective Action Framework (PCAF) following improvement in various parameters and a written commitment that the state-owned lender will comply with the minimum capital norms.

SBI Life: The Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) plans to offload 2 per cent stake in Company on Thursday, according to terms of the deal obtained by Bloomberg. The shares will be offered in the range between Rs 1,159 and Rs 1,220 per share.

Century Ply: We are attractively placed to capitalise on the projected upturn in the economy and housing sector. On the back of diversified product portfolio, we expect to grow revenues at the rate of 20 per cent compounded across the next three years, around existing margins, Century Ply chairman Sajjan Bhajanka said at the 40th AGM.

Bank of Baroda: State-owned Bank of Baroda on Wednesday announced the launch of its digital banking platform 'bob World', aimed at providing all banking services under one roof.

PNB: Banks Board Bureau (BBB) on Wednesday recommended Atul Kumar Goel for the post of Managing Director of Punjab National Bank. Goel currently heads Kolkata-based UCO Bank, which was removed by the Reserve Bank of India from Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) earlier in the day.

Auto stocks: The government is believed to have slashed the outlay for the automobile sector under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to about Rs 26,000 crore and the proposal is expected to be approved by the Union Cabinet soon, a PTI report said, citing sources. The repory said its source did not disclose the reason for revising the scheme to Rs 25,938 crore, but stated that the focus is now more on battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Minda Corp: Auto components major Spark Minda Group flagship firm Minda Corporation Ltd on Wednesday announced appointments of Ranjit Nambiar as CEO and PC Jayan as Chief Technology Officer for its Interior Plastic Division (IPD) business.

ONGC: Ratings agency ICRA assigns AAA to Rs 7,500 NCD issue.

Arvind SmartSpaces: The companys board is scheduled to meet tomorrow to consider a proposal to raise funds.

Blue Dart Express: The company in association with Skye Air, a drone delivery start-up, will flag off its first drone flight for Vaccine delivery for Telangana governments ambitious plan Medicine from the Sky.

KPI Global Infrastructure: The company has terminated power purchase agreement signed for the capacity of 1.10 MW solar power plant under Independent Power Producer (IPP) segment.

TCS: Avianca, one of the leading airlines in South America, partnered with TCS to accelerate its journey to the cloud.

Infosys: The company and The Economist Group announced a new strategic partnership designed to enable and accelerate sustainability solutions and drive world-changing impact through a new business-to-business model.

Adani Enterprises: CG Natural Resources, a subsidiary of the company, has emerged as a successful bidder for Jhigador (250 MT) and Khargaon (250 MT) coal blocks in Bisrampur, Chhattisgarh.

BPCL: The company has appointed Arun Kumar Singh as Chairman and Managing Director and Vetsa Ramakrishna Gupta as additional Director and Director (Finance) with effect from September 7.

Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers: The company said it will set up a plant to manufacture 75 KL per day i.e. 1.50 lakh bottles (500 ml. capacity) per day, of Nano Urea (Liquid) fertilizer at RCF's Trombay unit based on proprietary technology developed and patented by Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Ltd.

Piramal Enterprises: The company arm Piramal Critical Care received US FDA nod for generic of Sedative Precedex.
Sebi's decision to introduce an optional T+1 (Trade plus 1 day) settlement system for the could help reduce margin requirement for clients and boost retail in equity markets, experts said on Thursday.

T+1 means that settlements will need to be cleared within one day of the actual transactions taking place. Currently, trades on the Indian stock exchanges are settled in two working days after the transaction is done (T+2).

In a circular on Tuesday, the regulator allowed exchanges to move to the T+1 settlement cycle on an optional basis.

As of now, has introduced this mechanism on an optional basis, so exchanges will decide whether to implement the T+1 settlement or continue with the T+2 old mechanism. The new mechanism will come into force on January 1, 2022.

Experts said the T+1 settlement system will allow the cycle of money to move faster without waiting for an extra day.

However, Mywealthgrowth.com co-founder Harshad Chetanwala said it is too early to comment on the pros and cons of this move, as exchanges may face some operational issues as there are multiple factors and entities involved in completing the entire settlement cycle.

The learnings from this exercise will help in evaluating whether T+1 can work or it is good to continue with T+2 settlement cycle, he added.

Jaideep Arora, CEO, Sharekhan by BNP Paribas said, "The new rule of T+1 settlement is a good move on the part of the regulator as it could help reduce margin requirement for clients with their margin being blocked for 1 day, rather than 2 days".

Additionally, this reduction in time to get back to one day would mean more retail would come to equity markets, he added.

"The T+1 settlement is a welcome move for all participants in the stock market, as it allows the cycle of money to move faster without waiting for an extra day," Prateek Singh, Founder and CEO, LearnApp.com, said.

has allowed the exchanges to decide which stocks to allow the T+1 settlement in. This means, it is not mandatory for both the exchanges to follow the T+1 settlement process.

"They have the liberty to choose; but the question is if one exchange chooses to opt for T+1 and the other one doesn't, then wouldn't that become a little confusing? Brokers will have to first clearly mention and show whether T+1 is available and then which exchange is allowing it," Singh said.

"My guess is that for the top most liquid stocks, both exchanges will allow the T+1 settlement because there is no reason not to and the less liquid ones will still have a T+2 going forward," he added.

Vijay L Bhambwani, head of research Behaviour Technical Analysis, Equitymaster, also welcomed the move.

"It means the banks have managed to put in place a faster clearing system for monetary transfer. This means capital can rotate faster and higher turnover is the single biggest factor in boosting the country's GDP," he said.

According to him, so far money was moving lethargically in the financial system. Faster settlements means quicker turnaround time. Both in stock and the economy as a whole.

Under the new framework, if the exchanges opt for Trade+1 settlement then, they need to continue this settlement for a minimum of six months. After that, exchanges will have the option to opt for a Trade+2 settlement cycle after giving one month's notice to the market.

"We believe that this new mechanism of Trade+1 day rolling the settlement will help investors to get the stock or fund the next day of the trade itself so that investors can use shares or funds for further transactions," Yash Gupta, Equity Research Analyst, Angel Broking, said.

He, further, said this will be good for traders as the settlement will be faster and they can use stock or funds for margins, for long term investors it may not impact them much.

"We believe that this is a positive development for brokerages as this can ease some pressure arising from the application of 100 per cent collection of upfront margin starting September 1, 2021," he added.

This is not the first time that has chosen to shorten the settlement cycle. Earlier in 2002, the capital regulator had cut the number of days in the settlement cycle from T+5 days to T+3 days, and then in 2003, it reduced to T+2 days.

However, for the past 18 years, exchanges are continuing this T+2 days settlement cycle.

Angel Broking's Gupta said the new mechanism will also impact the auction market as if a seller is not able to deliver stocks on the settlement day, those shares will come in the auction. As of now, auctions are done on T+3 days which will also reduce to T+2 days.

Earlier, brokers association Association of National Exchanges Members of India (Anmi) had raised concerns on issues related to the implementation of the T+1 settlement system.

In its letter to Sebi last month, Anmi, a group of over 900 stockbrokers across the country, had said the T+1 settlement system should not be implemented without addressing operational and technical challenges.

"Shifting to T+1 settlement would make India a pre-funding market and global institutional investors will be faced with multiple issues with this structure," the brokers' association had said.

According to Anmi, global investors appreciate the economic efficiency of being able to fund settlement obligations for purchase transactions in one market with sales proceeds from another.

(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.)
Shares of zoomed 16 per cent to Rs 14.85 apiece in the intra-day deals on Thursday after the (RBI) removed the public sector lender from its PCA (Prompt Corrective Action) framework citing improvement in its financial and credit profile.

The stock witnessed massive volume of 2.87 million shares in just first 15 minutes of trade, as against the 2-week daily average volume of 0.4 million shares on the BSE. At 10:05 am, the stock was up 10 per cent at Rs 14.14 on the BSE as against a 0.17 per cent decline in the S&P BSE Sensex.

"UCO Banks performance was reviewed by the Board of Financial Supervision, which noted that as per banks FY21 earnings, the bank is not in breach of the PCA parameters. Further, the bank has provided a written commitment to comply with the norms of Minimum Regulatory Capital, Net NPA and Leverage ratio on an ongoing basis," the RBI said in a statement on Wednesday. READ HERE





had been under PCA since May 2017 and had been barred from increasing risk-weighted assets due to high NPA ratios and negative returns on assets. . The bank had requested the regulator to remove the PCA tag after it had successively posted profits for three quarters in FY21.

During the April-June quarter of FY22 (Q1FY22), reported a near 4-fold jump in net profit at Rs 10.18 crore as against Rs 2.15 crore in Q1FY21. Total income was up marginally by 2.3 per cent at Rs 453.91 crore from Rs 443.66 crore in the said period. During the April-June quarter of FY22 (Q1FY22), reported a near 4-fold jump in net profit at Rs 10.18 crore as against Rs 2.15 crore in Q1FY21. Total income was up marginally by 2.3 per cent at Rs 453.91 crore from Rs 443.66 crore in the said period.

For FY21, the bank had reported a net profit of Rs 16.71 crore and total income of Rs 1,816.64 crore.

The PCA framework, which was introduced by RBI in 2002 and then reviewed in 2017, is a structured early-intervention mechanism to keep a check on bank's financial health, such as asset quality, profitability and capital adequacy.

The aim is to check the problem of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) in the Indian banking sector, and place under watch banks with weak financial metrics.




Ashoka Buildcon had submitted Bid to National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL) in respect of the Project viz. 'Request for Proposal for Widening/Improvement to 4 (Four) Lane with Paved Shoulder from KM 113+300 to Km 146+250 (Design Chainage 113+830 to 145+712) of Kwaram Taro Village Dillai Section (Package-6) of NH 29 in the state of Assam on EPC mode'. (Project)

The Company has emerged as the Lowest Bidder (L-1) and the quoted Bid Price of the Project is Rs.282.11 crore.

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Blue Dart Express rose 1.92% to Rs 6490.65 after the company partnered with drone delivery startup Skye Air to flag off the first drone flight for Telangana Government's ambitious project - 'Medicine from the Sky'.

The drone delivery trials for delivery of medicines and vaccines will be held in Vikarabad, Hyderabad from 9th September till 17th October, the company said. These flights will have consignments of vaccine, medical samples and other healthcare items.

'Medicine from The Sky' is an ambitious project of Telangana Government and it will become the first State to start trials of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone flights for delivery of COVID-19 vaccines.

Indian drone delivery start-up firm Skye Air Mobility which is a part of the consortium for Government of Telangana "Medicines from the sky" Project will conduct the majority of drone flights. Skye Air has joined hands with BlueDart Express to provide drone-based delivery and drone flights to conduct these trials. Skye Air focuses on an end-to-end ecosystem for drone based logistic transportation.

Balfour Manuel, managing director, Blue Dart says, India rolled out a nationwide vaccination campaign that has administered over 70 crore COVID vaccine doses so far. While the nation is focusing on achieving 100% vaccination, the current situation calls for a much deeper penetration of vaccines, especially in the remote areas. Delivery of vaccination through drones would be a stepping stones to achieve this goal.

Blue Dart Express is South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company. It offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 35,000 locations in India.

The company reported a consolidated net profit of Rs 31.27 crore in Q1 FY22 as against a net loss of Rs 125.84 crore in Q1 FY21. Net sales during the quarter rose by 108.15% to Rs 866.22 crore in Q1 June 2021 over Q1 June 2020.

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Jindal Steel & Power (JSPL), through its step down subsidiary, Jindal Steel & Power (Australia), has prepaid $105.66 million (about Rs 777.4 crore).

The prepayment has helped reduce the Australian debt by approximately 50%. The company's Net Debt/EBITDA on consolidated basis was reported at 0.96x while standalone Net Debt/EBITDA was approximately 0.7x as of June quarter which is expected to go down further this quarter.

JSPL has been working on net debt reduction of more than Rs 31,306 crore from a peak of approximately Rs 46,533 crore in 3QFY17 to Rs 15,227 crore as reported in Q1FY22. JSPL said it is focusing on maintaining minimum levels of liquidity on its balance sheet at all times and it is committed to become a net debt free company by FY23. It added that overseas debt will be completely paid in coming quarters.

"We are paying back to lenders before time in order to strengthen our balance sheet. The company is aligned with the India growth story and we want to become a net debt free company by FY23 through accelerated deleveraging. We will expand our Steel making capacity in Angul to more than 12 MTPA by 2025 through internal accruals," said V R Sharma, managing director, JSPL in a statement.

JSPL's consolidated net profit declined 73.5% to Rs 41.81 crore on a 62.8% rise in net sales to Rs 10,628.80 crore in Q1 FY22 over Q1 FY21.

JSPL is an industrial powerhouse with a dominant presence in steel, power, mining and infrastructure sectors.

Shares of JSPL gained 0.54% to Rs 397.90 on BSE.

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Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been selected by Avianca, one of the leading airlines in South America, as a strategic partner in its cloud transformation journey.

Infosys and The Economist Group, a leading global media company, announced a new strategic partnership designed to enable and accelerate sustainability solutions and drive world-changing impact through a new business-to-business model.

JSPL through its step down subsidiary, Jindal Steel & Power (Australia) Pty Ltd, made a pre-payment of 105.66 million USD (approx.777.4 crores INR). The prepayment has helped reduce the Australian debt by approx. 50%.

UCO Bank said that Reserve Bank of India has lifted Prompt Corrective Action restrictions on the bank.

KPI Global Infrastructure said that the company has terminated power purchase agreement signed for the capacity of 1.10 MW solar power plant under Independent Power Producer (IPP) segment.

Stovec Industries and Atul Sugar Screens (Atul) has agreed to the closure of Contract Manufacturing Agreement (CMA), accordingly, closing date of CMA would be 31st July 2022, or such later date as may be determined by Atul, which shall be no later than 30th September, 2022. Until its termination as aforesaid, company will continue to make production of sugar sieves for Atul.

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Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been selected by Avianca, one of the leading airlines in South America, as a strategic partner in its cloud transformation journey.

TCS will modernize Avianca's IT infrastructure and build a new future-ready cloud-based digital core on Microsoft Azure. Leveraging its deep domain knowledge of the airline industry and its extensive experience in successfully executing large transformation programs, TCS will help the airline migrate 129 core applications to the cloud and will also manage the new cloud estate.

TCS will leverage its proprietary automation tools and accelerators to drive this transformation, reducing the time-to-market and delivering superior business outcomes. These include TCS Cloud Counsel, a digitized cloud candidature assessment toolset, and TCS Cloud Mason which helps organizations rapidly define, design and deploy cloud foundational platforms.

The new digital core will provide an integrated environment that will enhance Avianca's business agility, operational resilience, adaptability and future-readiness. Additionally, the cloud-based infrastructure will have a significantly reduced carbon footprint that will help Avianca get closer to its sustainability goals.

The new cloud-based digital core that we design and build, will have a tremendous impact on their overall operations, sustainability and future growth, said Sowmya Rajagopalan, Head of Americas, Travel, Transportation and Hospitality (TTH), TCS.

Shares of TCS fell 1.07% to settle at Rs 3,774.10 yesterday, 8 September 2021.

TCS is an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization. TCS offers a consulting-led, cognitive powered, integrated portfolio of business, technology and engineering services and solutions.

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Delhi president Adesh Gupta on Thursday said that the central government is running free COVID-19 inoculation centres in the city in "top gear" and party workers are creating awareness among people about

He also said that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "able leadership", the country will overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gupta was speaking at one of the 215 "thanks giving meetings" organised by the party in different areas of the city.

Addressing a meeting at ITO crossing, he said that in a country of over 130 crore people, the way the Modi government has handled the pandemic would set an example for the world.

"The central government is running the free campaign in the entire city in top gear and party workers are going to every household to create awareness among people about the necessity for the vaccination," Gupta said.

"But the Kejriwal government is only busy taking credit for this through advertisements and publicity and should know the battle against can't be won on the basis of publicity alone," he said.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Pictured are some buses at Reed City Area Public Schools, which will be closed Thursday through Monday so staff can get an idea why so many students and staff have been absent lately and if its related to COVID-19.
Parts of Zhengzhou Metro that were suspended due to flooding in July have resumed operation after more than 50 days of repairs. The capital city of Central Chinas Henan province reopened Line 1, parts of Line 2, and the Chengjiao Line on Sunday, and then the remaining lines Wednesday. The flooding of the subway system had caused 14 deaths

Sep 15, 2021 05:18 PM
St. Johnsbury, VT (05819)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 74F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with overcast skies overnight. Low 54F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Mazda may have been giving its CX-5 compact SUV continuous updates every year be it in the form of new colors , more advanced features , or ...
Jarrett Bay moves on to semifinals in competition for Coolest Thing Made in NC title
Carteret Health Care, seen here at 3500 Arendell St., will monitor COVID-19 trends on a daily basis to determine whether to pause elective inpatient procedures for the day. Such procedures are being paused for the first time Tuesday. (Elise Clouser photo)
The blue-green water at Bennets Millpond in Chowan County, shown here from above, is evidence of a recent algal bloom. Photo: Jared Lloyd
Glen, NH (03838)

Today

Windy with afternoon thunderstorms developing. A few of the storms could be heavy. A few storms may be severe. High 77F. Winds W at 25 to 35 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Windy at times with periods of rain. Low 59F. Winds WNW at 20 to 30 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
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Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions is one of the big concerns of our age.

The numerous diverging interests pitted against each other on this issue make it a real puzzler for policy-makers, though. After many years of public policies aimed at reducing GHGs, layered one on top of the other, its time to ask ourselves if our rural regions are not being penalized disproportionately by all of these measures.

Carbon pricing is certainly one of the most effective policy tools for fighting climate change. Such a measure works by attaching a price to certain behaviours, such as fuel consumption, to discourage them. However, this should be done in such a way as to reorganize the tax burdens of individuals and companies rather than increasing those burdens. Indeed, this is a principle that is recognized by many economists.

It must be pointed out that Quebecs carbon pricing policy increases the price of fuel equally across the entire province. Its easy to see how this will produce the desired effect in a city like Montreal or Toronto, where people can more easily replace driving with taking the bus and/or subway to get to work or visit friends. The problem is that the alternatives are not nearly as convenient in rural regions, and consumers are therefore held captive. It would be a lot fairer to modulate the price of carbon in such a way that rural residents would not be unduly penalized by what quite frankly becomes just a tax grab.

To take another example, the rigid regulatory framework surrounding the repurposing of inactive wells in Western Canada also deprives the population of interesting economic opportunities, all while posing a risk for the environment and, potentially, human health. The current system allows for reclamation and remediation but not for the repurposing of the land. We, therefore, need to take a fresh look at this very real issue and stop getting bogged down in regulatory processes that move at the speed of quicksand.

For example, it took one project over five years to wade through the layers of regulations in repurposing legacy oil and gas infrastructure for community solar power. When you consider that there are 97,000 inactive wells and 71,000 abandoned wells across Alberta, its easy to see that were missing out on a promising opportunity to revitalize communities and generate economic activity in a region that has suffered in recent years.

In Quebec, its dogma thats blocking progress. The moratorium on developing the provinces natural gas resources remains in effect, to the detriment of rural residents. Its the people who live in rural communities, where the average wage is 16 per cent lower than it is in urban centres, who pay the price for this harmful public policy. By lifting its natural gas restrictions for 25 years, Quebec could create 9,200 jobs and gain a total of $93 billion in GDP. Were talking about a major economic development policy.

We also need to realize that developing these resources and exporting them would help accelerate the closing of coal power plants in other countries, thus reducing global greenhouse gases. Unfortunately, its a safe bet that the Quebec government will not seize this opportunity, judging by its decision in the GNL Quebec file. And yet, a majority of Quebecers want the province to develop its oil resources, which is an even more sensitive matter.

This is not an exhaustive list of environmental measures that penalize rural regions but merely a snapshot. We all want to take action to slow climate change and mitigate its harmful effects. But we should work together on this, which means that the policies put in place should be fair for all Canadians, regardless of where they happen to live.

Miguel Ouellette is director of operations and an economist at the Montreal Economic Institute, Olivier Rancourt is an economist there, and Krystle Wittevrongel is a public policy analyst with the institute. They are the authors of Environmental Policies Should Be Adapted for Rural Canadians.
I have always admired the cool, calm and collected way that chief Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has presented pandemic facts and figures to British Columbians.

As the virus and its variants evolved, she changed tactics on several occasions to match circumstances. When health orders were altered, she never ducked a question from the media, always willing to explain how and why new paths taken were consequential of evolving science.

This was most evident on Sept. 7 when Henry ordered that everyone who has been vaccinated must obtain the vaccine card to enter certain establishments for the foreseeable future.

Her presentation was so absolutely crystal clear, and easy to understand; its so simple to obtain a vaccine card, even for people like me who have never owned a smart-phone. Everyone had ample advanced warning that this was the next step being taken, in a concerted effort for the hesitant ones among us to wake up, smell the roses and get inoculated, if they want a return to some kind of normalcy during this ongoing pandemic.

Strident anti-vaxxers have spent about 20 months listening to influencers on Facebook and other sources filling their gullible heads with disinformation. Literally millions of their fraudulent and often crazy claims have been discredited on an hourly basis, yet they persist in spreading vicious, vile, viper-like, virulent accusations all through cyberspace.

Throughout it all, Henry has maintained a quiet dignity, and her latest excellent presentation must have caused the knotted knickers of the anti-vaxxers to tighten to an even more excruciating painful level.

Bernie Smith, Parksville
Photo: RCMP A protester sits on a platform suspended from a log on Granite Main logging road.

The fight to save old-growth trees in the Fairy Creek area has reached a historic milestone.

Police have so far arrested 882 people for breaching a Supreme Court injunction in the disputed logging area near Port Renfrew, creating what organizers and the B.C. Green Party are calling the greatest act of civil disobedience in Canadian history.

The arrest total surpasses the 856 arrested during protests against logging in Clayoquot Sound in 1993.

Protesters have been blocking logging roads and occupying camps in the Fairy Creek area for more than a year. The RCMP has been making daily arrests since Surrey-based Teal Jones Group, which holds the Tree Farm Licence in the area, secured a court injunction in May.

On Monday, B.C. Green Party Leader Sonia Fursteneau blamed the provincial government for the arrest tally, accusing it of dragging its feet on implementing its own Old Growth Strategic Review report commissioned 18 months ago.

Thirty years ago, British Columbians called for change and were heard around the world. Today, British Columbians are again calling for change. The premier has refused to hear them.

Fursteneau urged Premier John Horgan to step up, put solutions on the table and work with the Pacheedaht First Nation and the federal government to protect Fairy Creek and other old-growth areas.

Deferring logging of rare old growth is the bare minimum required, and yet the B..C NDP is refusing to meet even this commitment, Fursteneau said. We need to see permanent protection for these rare ecosystems, backed by economic support for affected communities and workers.

The milestone comes as protest group the Rainforest Flying Squad warned that logging has resumed as the fire risk has decreased with cooler weather. Protesters are particularly concerned about the fate of an old cedar dubbed the Grandfather Tree, which they say could be cut soon as Teal Jones sends in crews to log.

With Teal Jones injunction set to expire on Sept. 26, the company has asked the Supreme Court to extend it.

On Tuesday, police arrested 16 people in the Fairy Creek area and removed obstructions from the Granite Main logging road, where protesters were secured in buried locking devices and suspended from tripods and cantilevers.

RCMP also investigated the use of a helicopter over the weekend to drop supplies to the protesters, including cement and other materials to make locking devices. Police said the helicopter may have had call signs and markings illegally obscured.

Anyone found to be aiding or abetting those breaching the B.C. Supreme Court injunction can also be charged, police said in a statement.

Tegan Hansen of Stand.Earth, which delivered boxes of petitions with 150,000 signatures to the legislature last month, demanded the provincial government stop all logging in remaining old-growth forests before more people on the ground are hurt and before more old growth is lost forever.

The group said the RCMP has been broadly condemned for brutality during arrests, including the use of pepper spray.

The Rainforest Flying Squad said the federal agency overseeing the RCMP has received 73 complaints about enforcement measures as of Aug. 30. The Civilian Review and Complaints Commission for the RCMP is reportedly probing 17 of those files.
Photo: The Canadian Press FILE - In this Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 file photo, a health worker prepares Pfizer vaccines during the national COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Pamplona, northern Spain. In a statement Monday Sept. 6, 2021, the European Medicines Agency says it has started an expedited evaluation on whether to recommend a booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine made by Pfizer-BioNTech. (AP Photo/Alvaro Barrientos, File)

Rich countries with large supplies of coronavirus vaccines should refrain from offering booster shots through the end of the year and make the doses available for poorer countries, the head of the World Health Organization said Wednesday, doubling down on an earlier appeal for a moratorium" on boosters that has largely been ignored.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also said he was appalled after hearing comments Tuesday from a top association of pharmaceutical manufacturers that vaccine supplies are high enough to allow for both booster shots for people in well-supplied countries and first jabs in poorer countries that face shortages. He said thats already been the case.

I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the worlds poor should be satisfied with leftovers, he told a news conference. "Because manufacturers have prioritized or been legally obliged to fulfill bilateral deals with rich countries willing to pay top dollar, low income countries have been deprived of the tools to protect their people.

Tedros had previously called for a moratorium on boosters through the end of September. But wealthy countries  including Britain, Denmark, France, Greece, Germany, and Spain  have begun or are considering plans to offer third shots of two-dose vaccines to their vulnerable people such as the elderly or those with compromised immune systems.

Israel has been providing third doses to a wide swath of people who already received a full two-dose regimen months earlier. And last month, United States health officials recommended that all Americans get boosters to shore up their protection amid evidence that the vaccines effectiveness is falling. WHO officials insist the scientific justification for boosters remains unclear.

Tedros acknowledged that third doses might be necessary for at-risk groups, but said: We do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated."

Responding to the WHO calls on booster shots, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the U.S. has donated and shared about 140 million doses with over 90 countries, "more than all other countries combined.

She added: From Senegal to South Africa to India, weve made significant investments in boosting global productions of COVID vaccines. At the same time, the President and this administration has a responsibility to do everything we can to protect people in the United States.

U.S. health officials are continuing to assess the science and utility of boosters, and there are growing indications that the U.S. may miss the Biden administration's Sept. 20 target date for a wide rollout of extra shots for vaccinated people.

The WHO chief said he received a message of clear support from health ministers at a meeting of the influential Group of 20 countries this week for a commitment to help hit a WHO target that all countries vaccinate at least 40% of their people by year's end.

A month ago, I called for a global moratorium on booster doses, at least until the end of September to prioritize vaccinating the most at risk people around the world who are yet to receive their first dose, Tedros said. There has been little change in the global situation since then.

So today, Im calling for an extension of the moratorium until at least the end of the year to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40% of its population, he said.

The WHO says 5.5 billion coronavirus vaccine doses have been administered so far, but 80% of those have been to upper- and middle-income countries. Rich countries have also offered to donate 1 billion doses to other countries, but fewer than 15% of those doses have materialized," Tedros said.

He noted that manufacturers have pledged to prioritize the U.N.-backed COVAX program, which aims to get vaccines to the neediest people in the world  no matter how wealthy the country.

We dont want any more promises. We just want the vaccines, the WHO chief said.

Earlier Wednesday, COVAX managers again scaled back their target to ship doses this year, projecting about 1.4 billion doses will be available through the program by year-end  down from about 1.8 billion previously. They had originally hoped to ship 2 billion doses this year.

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, which co-runs the program, said COVAX has faced setbacks including export restrictions from hard-hit India  a key producer of vaccines  as well as regulatory hurdles for some vaccine candidates and manufacturing troubles elsewhere. But it also said deliveries are ramping up strongly, and another 1.1 billion doses are expected to be available by year-end through the program, up from 330 million so far. Most of those doses have gone to or are destined for poorer countries.

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations said Tuesday that about 1.5 billion COVID-19 vaccine doses are now being produced every month, and cited projections that a total of 12 billion will have been produced by year-end.

Dr. Bruce Aylward, a top adviser to Tedros, acknowledged that some countries may be going ahead with decisions" to widely administer boosters, but that the WHO call for a moratorium makes a real difference. He said some countries  which he did not identify  have approached the WHO about whether booster policies could be delayed.

But admittedly, the WHO's first call for a moratorium through September has not fixed the gaping imbalance in access to vaccines.

(O)ur role is to make sure that we put forward the strongest possible arguments and way out of this pandemic  and the way out of that is a moratorium and to extend it," Aylward said. "Because since the last time we called for it, the equity gap has gotten greater, the amount of vaccine available to low-income countries has gone down.
Photo: The Canadian Press Conservative Leader Erin OToole arrives for the federal election French-language debate in Gatineau, Que, Wednesday, September 8, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

The Latest on the French-language leaders' debate among Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau, Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet and Green Party Leader Annamie Paul (all times local):

9:20 p.m.

Singh wouldn't say what will happen to the Trans Mountain pipeline if New Democrats form government, just that they would assess the situation.

The leaders were pressed on the fate of the pipeline which the federal government bought from Kinder Morgan in 2018  if they take the reins after Sept. 20.

The existing Alberta-to-B.C. pipeline has been operating for decades and a project to nearly triple its capacity is underway, over the objections of some coastal First Nations.

Trudeau said some Indigenous communities want to buy the pipeline and would continue to operate it until "we don't need it anymore."

O'Toole, meanwhile, said only that families in Western Canada need an economic recovery, but didn't say how long he would want the pipeline to be used.

Blanchet pledged to give the pipeline to the people of Alberta, while Paul said it should be cancelled.

---

8:30 p.m.

The leaders were pushed to spell out how much money they would give the provinces for health care  specifically, whether they would hand over the additional $28 billion requested by premiers.

Singh said the NDP would boost health-care transfers, but wouldn't say by how much, while Paul would only say her party would discuss the issue with the provinces.

Trudeau pledged an additional $25 billion, with some conditions regarding how the money could be spent.

O'Toole said a Conservative government wouldn't attach any strings to the funding, out of respect for provincial jurisdiction.

Blanchet said he would demand the additional $28 billion for the provinces.

Quebec Premier Francois Legault has previously bristled at what he called a "centralist" approach by Ottawa in tying health-care funding to specific initiatives, such as hiring doctors.

---

8:20 p.m.

Paul was pressed on why her party hasn't released a costed plan, with only two weeks left until Canadians go to the polls.

The Green Party leader said a costed platform is "coming," but wouldn't say when.

She pointed to the short campaign as contributing to the delay.

The NDP also has yet to release the costing for its platform, while the Conservatives released their costing hours before tonight's debate.

The Liberals released their platform, with costing, last week.

---

8:10 p.m.

Several of the leaders are highlighting the importance of working together if this month's election ends in another minority government.

The debate's moderator, Patrice Roy, asked all five leaders whether they would commit to not triggering another election in a minority situation.

Trudeau went first, repeating his rationale for sending Canadians to the ballots  that the government needs a clear mandate to make decisions on pulling the country out of the pandemic.

O'Toole and Paul both said collaboration in the House is paramount, while Blanchet said his party would support any government measures that are good for Quebec.

Singh said he would respect the mandate given by Canadians to the government they elect.

---

7:30 p.m.

Green Party Leader Annamie Paul has arrived at the debate venue by car  the last of the five leaders to make their way to the museum.

Speaking to reporters on her way in, Paul says she welcomes the release of the Conservatives' costed platform, but hasn't seen it yet.

She says her message to Canadians during tonight's event will be that her party is ambitious and promises real action on climate change.

Climate is one of the designated topics for the debate, along with the cost of living, public finances, Indigenous issues, justice, foreign policy and the COVID-19 pandemic.

---

7:25 p.m.

Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau has arrived at the museum for tonight's French-language debate.

As his motorcade drives into the museum's driveway, some in the crowd gathered on the sidewalk to boo him.

A few dozen people have also gathered outside the venue, including some who appear to be supporters of the People's Party of Canada and the Bloc Quebecois.

The Liberal leader stepped out of his vehicle, waved and headed inside without stopping to speak to reporters.

Trudeau's campaign has been dogged by angry protesters, and tensions reached a new high Monday when someone threw gravel at him during an event in London, Ont.

---

7:20 p.m.

Three of the leaders taking part in tonight's French-language debate have arrived at the Museum of Canadian History in Gatineau, Que., across from Parliament Hill.

Bloc Quebecois Yves-Francois arrived first, walking up to the museum with his wife and stopping to speak to reporters for a few moments before going inside.

He said, in English, that the Conservatives released their costed platform too late for it to be analyzed before the debate.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh also made a few remarks, in French, saying he'll present his plan to Canadians.

Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, meanwhile, went inside without speaking to reporters.

---

6:30 p.m.

A small group of People's Party of Canada supporters wearing party merchandise stands on the sidewalk near the Museum of Canadian History in Gatineau, Que., where tonight's debate is being held.

A large number of people dressed in the party's gear  as well as one of its candidates  were also present at a London, Ont., event Monday where protesters threw gravel at Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau.

The leaders have not yet arrived at the museum for the debate, which is set to begin at 8 p.m.
Photo: The Canadian Press

The Supreme Court of Canada says it won't hear a bail appeal from a Canadian fashion mogul who is facing trafficking and racketeering charges in the United States.

Peter Nygard applied earlier this year to the countrys highest court for permission to challenge a Manitoba ruling that denied him bail.

An Appeal Court justice had ruled that Nygards detention was necessary because of the enormity of the allegations against him.

Nygard is accused by American authorities of using his influence to lure women and girls with the promise of modelling and other financial opportunities.

He has denied all the allegations.

Nygard's lawyers have argued that there is inconsistency in how courts decide on incarceration when it comes to extradition hearings.
Due to her extreme divisive actions (B.C. Provincial Health Officer Dr.) Bonnie Henry has imprisoned herself inside a jail of health tyranny of her own making.

Once a rather benign, inoffensive lady preaching understanding, empathy and tolerance, she has morphed something else. I actually think that she's being threatened, blackmailed or coerced. It's the only explanation as to why this unelected official has doubled down so heavily and unpleasantly in her attacks against those that defy her. Or for how she has almost changed into a different person. No plans for vaccine passports, then only weeks later vaccine passports arrive. No plans to have them permanently, but then the national debt generator himself, (Liberal leader Justin) Trudeau, offers millions to the provinces to create their vaccine passports and temporary vaxports are announced. Social division will only widen further.

Defiance is what it has now becomethe framing of people who seek their own health choices as anti-vaxxers, when many have taken conventional vaccines all their lives. Some have chosen to wait until more longitudinal studies are complete, and others who have undertaken informed consent or risk analysis and decided not to get vaccinated.

The sheer level of anger, hate speak and vitriol against this demographic is horrendous. Attacks, insults, threats, coercion, discrimination, and social marginalization. Henry is in a race to the bottom and lacks the political ability to understand she cannot win this war. Attacking the public is a strategy of total failure and last resort, where she can only lose and to that end she is being used as a disposable pawn by those above. Cases are higher than this time last year as are hospitalizations and with such a high vaccination rate, it would appear Henry is lashing out in frustration while actually raging at herself for her failure and the hopelessness of her strategies, which are failing elsewhere such as the U.K.and Israel. But there is nothing to learn if one is unwilling to open their eyes and accept reality.

B.C. is actually back to Step 2 rather than progressing towards any reopening plan, a total failure that sits solely on Henry's shoulders. We were told that with a high vaccination rate we would be escaping the health tyranny, but it worsens. So much for empty government promises. Yet no questions are being asked about the causes of this failure. And by that I mean seriously powerful discussion, debate, analysis and critique, not blame, anger and finger-pointing. High levels of vaccination but we are even further away from the light at the end of the tunnel. I'd go as far as to say that it seems so dark, there's no end in sight.

We know that this is no longer about health. It has a broader socio-political context. It is about Henry and Dix's rage against defiance to government control, and against refusal to comply with a system that attacks and punishes people. If it was about health, Henry would have promoted the use of vitamin D and shared the research to prove its positive effect on general health in northern latitudes (Canadians are incredibly low on vitamin D uptake) and on Covid outcomes. Gyms would have been open and subsidized so that the western pandemic of obesity could be fought to help reduce the severity of Covid outcomes. A fat war is justified rather than a cruel nasty fatwa on the unvaccinated.

So Bonnie is in her self-imposed prison, unable to walk around town without being harassed. And despite the CCP-style vaxports and people volunteering to be walking QR codes, we are free.

Henry is just like Trudeau, attacking the general public and now so unpopular they are no longer free people. It's notable that (Conservative politician) Pierre Poilievre is free to sit talking with contractors in Ontario or visit small businesses, yet Trudeau has rocks thrown at him and receives abuse from angry mobs. To quote Trudeau the answer to tyranny is an election.

Henry has made her own Covid prison, and now she must live in it.

Ricky Daytona, West Kelowna
Photo: Unsplash/Nastuh Abootalebi

With B.C.s spiking COVID case numbers scuttling the provinces plan for a full Step 4 reopening by Sept. 7, many Metro Vancouver businesses that had intended to bring workers back to the office this fall have scrapped those plans.

Jason Santeford, managing director of the Vancouver office for global architecture and design firm Gensler, said that almost all of the clients the company is working with to recreate post-COVID office spaces had plans to bring some employees back in anticipation of the reopening. Many of these companies were scrambling to get their offices updated by Sept. 7, but Santeford said those plans have now been largely pushed back by months.

The desire to bring employees back on-site in a centralized office  even for less than a five-day work week  is real among business owners and managers.

A recent released Business Council of British Columbia survey found that the majority of top business executives in the province expect a significant reduction in remote work from pandemic levels after health officials declare the office environment safe.

The report showed almost 55% of business leaders surveyed have more than three-fifths of their workforce working off-site, and 35% of respondents said more than four-fifths of their workforce is off-site. However, when asked how much of their workforce will remain remote post-COVID only 10% of executives said three-fifths of their employees or more would remain working remotely.

The same survey showed that 40% of respondents want remote employees reduced to less than one-fifth of the total workforce  if not eliminated completely. Another 32% said they wanted to keep less than two-fifths of their staff working remotely post-pandemic.

Those numbers arent surprising for Santeford, who noted that while Gensler did see a lull in business when the pandemic first hit in March 2020, inquiries from companies about redesigning their office spaces for a quicker and safer return to work, quickly picked up in the following months and intensified this year as B.C. began to reopen in the summer.

BCBC vice-president of policy David Williams, who wrote the report on the survey, noted that the results do not mean companies are willing to sacrifice employees safety to get them back in the office. He said the question was framed to seek respondents views on how they want their companies to operate once COVID restrictions are lifted.

And even though many business leaders thought the full Step 4 reopening would happen sooner, almost all of the same executives will hold off the shift away from remote work until it is safe to do so, Williams said.

He agreed, however, that companies are increasingly weary of a full remote-work model.

A lot of businesses say that the value creation that happens in the office  the corridor conversations, the in-person meetings where ideas get shared  it just helps to have those direct communication, Williams said. Its very hard to replicate that in the virtual world. But virtual will still be part of the future work environment. We can see the benefits of being flexible, and employees certainly value that. So I think the pendulum is going to swing, and its just about finding the right balance. But I think everyone wants to get back to some semblance of normal after the pandemic, even if it doesnt look exactly like what we had before.

Santeford noted, however, that to achieve that new normal at the office, a company will need total buy-in on office space reconfiguration and overall workplace policies  whether on-site or off-site.

There are also major investment costs, he added. The most expensive additions are typically the technological infrastructure that allows remote workers and on-site employees to operate cohesively.

But while such upgrades are costly, Santeford said company executives can no longer simply will their workforce back to 100% on-site work when its safe to do so  especially while other companies are offering the opportunity for employees to continue working from home after the pandemic.
You may have seen this portion of the meeting on your social media feed. That young man who spoke in front of the school board is sharing his perspective of what happened.
Mayur Resources project awarded special economic zone status

09 September 2021

Mayur Resources' Central Cement and Lime project area has been granted Special Economic Status by the Papua New Guinea government.

Managing Director, Paul Mulder, said I greatly appreciate the leadership of the PNG Prime Minister & Minister for Bougainville Affairs & Defence, Honourable James Marape, in the establishment of this Special Economic Zone (SEZ) as it sets the right conditions for large-scale investment to thrive and catalyse down-stream processing in the SEZ that will particularly benefit the people and the manufacturing industry in PNG.

The SEZ licence covers the same area as the mining lease already granted for the CCL Project, located across Kido and Rea Rea. The SEZ provides Mayur with a range of benefits,including income tax relief, import tariff exemptions and associated concessions in accord with the SEZA 2019, which was approved by the National Executive Council (PNG Cabinet).



These benefits in the SEZ zone, granted for a nominal 10-year period, include being able to attract international investors to co-invest alongside existing Mayur investors and to give landowners exposure to future wealth creation opportunities on their land.

Of note is the PNG government's call for downstream, vertically-integrated, value-adding import displacement and export-generating industries to be established in PNG. "Mayur has risen to the challenge and has been accordingly recognised for such ongoing commitment and investment in PNG (since 2011). We continue to exclusively invest in PNG and thank the PNG State-Provincial Governments, Landowners & Customers for their vision and support," Mr Mulder said.

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Several people are removed from a Pittsylvania County School Board meeting; The county lends assistance to the Blue Ridge Rock Festival; Three more COVID fatalities bring the local death toll to 250; Danville leaders pitch a one-cent increase in the sales tax.
As we continue to fight the COVID-19 virus, weve learned humility in helping others and using every resource to accommodate the community. Volunteering in the local neighborhoods has been considered part of the foundation to getting through the pandemic. Kenneth Archer didn't hesitate to offer his services to help the people of Monroe County. He used his healthcare skills to administer vaccines to the community in a time where volunteers were desperately needed and because of his gracious actions, Mr. Archer has been chosen as the 2021 Community First Award honoree for Volunteer Service.Mr. Archer is a retired pharmacist who worked in his familys pharmacy for almost 40 years.He attended the University of Tennessee in Knoxville for pre-pharmacy then graduated fifth in his class at the University of Tennessee Pharmacy School in Memphis. His familys pharmacy has served Monroe County for decades and knows what the community needs in a time of care.As vaccines started to roll out, the Monroe County Health Department saw the urgent need for volunteers to help administer the vaccines. Mr. Archer decided to take his skills out of retirement and put them to a much needed use. He worked the frontlines for three months and in that time, he saw his community go from distressed to stable as more people received the vaccine.I volunteered to assist the Monroe County Health Department administer COVID-19 vaccines because I saw a great need, and I possessed the skill set to do such, stated Mr. Archer. Volunteerism has always been a part of my giving back to society, my country and my God for all the many blessings I have received in my life, and acknowledging my efforts for these endeavors is greatly appreciated.Colleagues who worked alongside Mr. Archer at the Monroe County Health Department say his work was a big help to their efforts, especially his experience in pharmacy. According to Monroe County Health Department Director Teresa Harrill, he was the only volunteer in the state that is a retired pharmacist.Being raised in Sweetwater, Tennessee, Mr. Archer knows the importance of lending a hand in a small community. He believes that taking care of others in local communities should be a first priority, and he has done so by participating in numerous mission trips both in America and abroad. Even though Mr. Archer is retired and not taking mission trips these days, he saw his efforts with the health department as his duty to give back.Mr. Archer said, I am a retired pharmacist so volunteering to administer the COVID-19 vaccine did not affect my job. On the other hand, it became my job. The blessings I received from working with the team at the health department and the great appreciation from the patients receiving the vaccine made it very easy to show up for work daily.Mr. Archer will be honored at the Community First Awards Gala hosted by Cleveland State Community College in September at the Barn at Faith Farms in Athens.To purchase a ticket or for more information, contact the Foundation Office at 423-614-8700. Tickets for the gala are currently on sale online at mycs.cc/communityfirst. All proceeds from the event will go to the CSCC Foundation Annual Campaign.




Data for the month of August showed 4,288 home closings, according to figures provided by Greater Nashville Realtors. This figure indicates a 2 percent decrease from the 4,380 closings reported for the same period last year.With stock being low throughout June and July, Augusts numbers are feeling the brunt of that shortage, said Brian Copeland, Greater Nashville Realtors president. "With sellers deciding more and more to list and move, were hopeful inventory will improve over the next few months.A comparison of sales by category for August is:20202021CLOSINGS4,3804,288Residential3,6383,479Condominium493550Multi-Family2132Farms/Land/Lots228227There were 3,628 sales pending at the end of August, compared to 4,220 pending sales at this time last year.The average number of days on the market for a single-family home was 23 days.The median price for a residential single-family home was $415,000 and for a condominium, it was $290,400. This compares with last years median residential and condominium prices of $346,172 and $242,500 respectively.Inventory at the end of August was 5,246 down from 8,459 in August 2020.The current inventory of properties by category, compared to last year, is:20202021INVENTORY8,4595,246Residential5,7493,321Condominium1,068611Multi-Family4570Farms/Land/Lots1,5971,244With inventory levels remaining low and new construction not entering the marketplace as rapidly, we will remain in this sellers market strongly into autumn and likely beyond, Mr. Copeland added.
Dr. Russell Dyer, director of Cleveland City Schools, announces Cleveland City Schools has been notified that the district is a Level 5 TVAAS School System for the 2020-2021 school year. Level 5 is the highest score possible on the TVAAS scale.

The Tennessee Department of Education website explains, The Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System measures student growth year over year, regardless of whether the student is proficient on the state assessment. In calculating a TVAAS score, a students performance is compared relative to the performance of his or her peers who have performed similarly on past assessments.

Cleveland Middle School and George R. Stuart Elementary have both received TVAAS Level 5 Overall School Composite scores for the 2020-2021 school year.

Dr. Dyer said, I am so proud of the educators that made this district Level 5 TVAAS score possible. This is once again evidence of the incredible work that took place this past school year across Cleveland City Schools. Achieving a Level 5 TVAAS score in the midst of such a difficult year is truly an amazing accomplishment for our staff, and I am so appreciative of all their hard work on behalf of our students. A special congratulations also goes out to Cleveland Middle School and George R. Stuart Elementary for their Level 5 TVAAS School Composite scores..
District 11 Senator Bo Watson presented the inaugural Literacy Summit on Thursday as part of his ongoing efforts to elevate the importance of literacy in early childhood. Tennessee Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn as well as state and local organizations convened at the Literacy Summit to explore opportunities that officials said will elevate literacy outcomes at both the local and state levels.

It was held Thursday at Collegedale Commons, 4950 Swinyar Dr.

Those attending included Commissioner Schwinn, State Collaborative on Reforming Education President and CEO David Mansouri, Tennesseans for Quality Early Education President and CEO Blair Taylor, Hamilton County Interim Superintendent Dr. Nakia Towns, and organizations administering reading and literacy programs.

Students who are not reading on grade level by third grade are unlikely to ever catch up, making it clear that prioritizing literacy in early childhood is critical and has a tremendous impact on the future success of our next generation, said Senator Watson. My goal is for those doing the work of administering reading and literacy programs is to get aligned, share what were doing, and tackle the issue collectively for the betterment of our children and beyond.

The summit comes weeks after Tennessee standardized test scores revealed a marked decline in each grade level. In Hamilton County, literacy scores for second graders dropped 11 percentage points compared to 2019. In addition to featured panelists, several stakeholders actively engaged in promoting literacy participated in the event aimed at elevating literacy outcomes in early childhood. Attendees included state, county and city elected officials, civic organizations and higher learning institutions as well as members of the community.

Tennessee teachers, leaders and policymakers have been focused on improving early literacy and that dedicated focus has spread throughout our state, as districts, educators, legislators, families and students have embraced Reading 360," said Commissioner Schwinn. "Every single child across the state deserves an opportunity to develop strong reading skills, a love of learning, and is progressing and accelerating just as fast as possible.

Now that Tennessee has a strong set of policies to improve early literacy, the next step is implementing those policies well, said Mr. Mansouri. SCORE applauds Senator Watson for bringing together the leaders who can ensure the entire community is aligned in supporting young students in learning to read well.

We know that when students arent reading at grade level by third grade they typically fall further and further behind," said Ms. Taylor. "With 68 percent of Tennessees third graders now below proficient, the situation is urgent for all student groups, but especially for economically disadvantaged students and children of color. We can fix this, but we know skills and performance gaps take root long before third grade and are tied to opportunity gaps. Thats why TQEE is dedicated to advancing smart policies and practices that support childrens success from ages 0 to third grade, with special attention to those economically or otherwise disadvantaged.

Summit participants also reviewed and discussed the Hamilton County Schools Foundational Literacy Skills Plan and the Tennessee Department of Educations Foundational Literacy Skills Plan Toolkit. For more information and to view those online, visit:

HCS Plan: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1asueL8DQkY6F9NFBlWYqr_J9zARxqqOPg6kCoBfEzy4/edit



TN DOE Plan: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/2020-21-leg-session/FLSP%20Guidance%20and%20Toolkit%20April%202021.pdf




To the City Council and County Commission:

The Chattanooga Branch of the NAACP request equitable treatment of citizens in the allocation of funds received by the city of Chattanooga and Hamilton County, Tennessee.

Chattanooga received approximately $40 million and Hamilton County $71 million of ARP funds, for a total of $111 million.

The National Association of Counties (NACo), states that . . . President Joe Bidens American Rescue Plan is intended to combat COVID-19 pandemic, including the public health and economic impacts.



During the public comment from citizens at the Chattanooga City Council and Hamilton County Commissioners meetings there were four questions posed. These questions are based on the requirements of Federal Executive Order 13985. The NAACP, other groups and individuals are ready to work with the government entities to have equitable spending for Black and underserved communities.

The questions are as follows:



1. What plans do you have to properly appropriate the $39.8/71.1 Million allocation to the City/County from the American Rescue Plan?



2. How will you ensure these funds will be equitably distributed to the local Black community?



3. How have city/county mayor, staff and council engaged the underserved members of our community?



4. What actions have you taken to gather data to assess the needs of our communities? If you have not begun the process, what is your timeline to accomplish this task?

Rev. Ann Jones Pierre

President NAACP Chattanooga Chapter
Hamilton County General Sessions Judge Alex McVeagh on Thursday named his campaign and finance leadership team, which will gather support, raise funds and host events to benefit the campaign committee, Friends of Judge Alex. Mike St. Charles and Marcy Eason will lead the committee as finance chairmen, retired former Tennessee Supreme Court Chief Justice Muecke Barker will serve as the committee treasurer, and attorneys Ariel Anthony and Max Bahner will serve as honorary campaign co-chairs.

Its deeply humbling that these leaders in our community have stepped forward to endorse me and support my election, said Judge McVeagh, who will be on the General Election ballot scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022. Not only are each of these talented lawyers generally regarded as giants in Tennessee legal circles, but they are also respected leaders in the civic and professional communities in Hamilton County.

Judge McVeagh launched his campaign to continue serving as judge of Hamilton County General Sessions Court, Division II, with an announcement last month for the non-partisan race next year. The rules uniquely governing judicial elections prohibit a judge or judicial candidate from personally soliciting or accepting contributions, making the role of the leadership and finance team critical.

Judge Alex McVeagh has served our community so well and has a great deal of support from those who work with him daily, said Muecke Barker, treasurer for Friends of Judge Alex. Alex is a fine man and has proven to be a distinguished jurist over these last four and a half years.

Hamilton County General Sessions Court hears close to 60,000 civil and criminal cases each year, in addition to cases in Hamilton Countys misdemeanor Drug Recovery Court, which was founded by Judge McVeagh in 2019.

The innovation and leadership Judge Alex McVeagh has shown in his time on the bench are what the citizens of Hamilton County deserve and need. Its an honor to be part of the team supporting him, said Mike St. Charles, attorney and former president and managing shareholder of Chambliss, Bahner and Stophel, P.C.

Leading the ground team of Friends of Judge Alex are campaign manager, Emily Wade, and communications and volunteer coordinators, Caroline Thomas and Betsy Browder. The non-partisan election for the General Sessions Court post will be held on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2022.

For additional information, visit www.votejudgealex.com. The campaign encourages others to follow Judge McVeagh on the campaign trail by Liking his Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FriendsofJudgeAlex.






New cast member, 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way, Steven says he expects Alina to be untouched for marriage; Could this be because he has the Freudian Madonna-whore complex? 90 Day Fiance fans pointed out that Steven has some outrageous expectations for Alina, while he himself isnt a virgin.

Alina on 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way | TLC

Steven expects Alina to be pure while he isnt a virgin himself

Alina was speaking to her friends about her move to Turkey to be with Steven. When her friends asked her if they planned to have sex, Alina said no. She told them that having sex isnt the most important thing in a relationship. She continued, Hes a very religious person, and we want to save ourselves for marriage. She tells the cameras, Im still a virgin. Not because I planned it, it just never happened. She continued, So since I respect the rules of Mormon religion, Steven and I agreed to be innocent, untouched, and pure for each other.

Steven told Alina over a video call that he booked two separate apartments in Turkey to maintain their purity and not accidentally have sex. So it came as a shock for audiences to hear that Steven wasnt a virgin. He said, For me, the hardest thing about my religion has been the law of chastity. And its just something that I am very tempted by and something that Ive struggled with. When asked to elaborate, he revealed hes not a virgin and has had sexual relationships in the past.

90 Day Fiance fans think that Steven has the Madonna-whore complex with Alina

Discussing the hypocritical relationship between Steven and Alina, 90 Day Fiance fans mentioned that they think Steven may see Alina as the Madona and essentially see all of the other women as whores. Sigmund Freuds Madonna-whore complex is described (via Wikipedia) as a psychological complex is said to develop in men who see women as either saintly Madonnas or debased prostitutes. It reads, Men with this complex desire a sexual partner who has been degraded (the whore) while they cannot desire the respected partner (the Madonna).

90 Day Fiance fans went to Reddit to discuss Steven and Alinas relationship. On a post about Steven saying that Alina is the type of woman he wants as a wife, fans couldnt help but think its only because shes still a virgin. One user wrote, Yea, have you heard of the Madonna-whore complex. The idea that some men can separate women into 2 types. Sexless Madonnas that are to be loved, and whore that are only good for sexual gratification. We are all whores to Steven, whereas Alina is a Madonna.

Steven is going to tell Alina hes not a virgin

Alina revealed to her friends that Steven had asked her permission to go on dates with other women. Alina quickly shot down that idea. However, its caused a lot of mistrust between them. Steven is nervous to tell Alina about him breaking the law of chastity in the past.

This could cause Alina to doubt that he has been faithful to her while they were in a long-distance relationship. The plan is for them to marry in Turkey and then apply for Stevens Russian visa. However, Stevens hypocritical views on sex before marriage might be a deal-breaker for Alina.

It will be interesting to see how the rest of 90 Day Fiance: The Other Way Season 3 will play out. Fans can tune in every Sunday to follow more of Steven and Alinas journey.

RELATED: 90 Day Fiance: Will Steven Dump Alina if She Doesnt Convert to His Mormon Faith?
Marvels own Dr. Strange Benedict Cumberbatch knows a thing or two about reality. Cumberbatch has portrayed the Sorceror Supreme for years, bringing the Eye of Agamottos power  and the threats he must fight to protect it  to the masses.

In real life, Cumberbatch has experienced plenty of near-death experiences and somehow escaped almost entirely unscathed.

Here are our picks for Cumberbatchs 5 most harrowing moments.

5. Benedict Cumberbatch nearly died while living in a Tibetan Buddhist monestery

Benedict Cumberbatch attends a screening of The Power of The Dog | Vivien Killilea/Getty Images

Long before Marvel came along, Cumberbatch lived in India for six months. At the tender age of 19, the star lived in a monastery teaching Tibetan Buddhists English. As told to The Hollywood Reporter, Cumberbatch spent some time backpacking.

On one particular trip, he and his friends lost their way on a mountain. A day-and-a-half later, Cumberbatch became ill with giardia from food gifted by a local shepherd. Giardia is a tiny parasite (germ) that causes the diarrheal disease giardiasis, according to the CDC. Luckily, he came out of it OK.

4. This physical altercation came after Cumberbatch nearly killed someone else

In 2019, Cumberbatch hit a cyclist while driving in Freshwater, Isle of Wight. According to the Daily Mail UK, the collision caused injury to cyclist Scooby Lawrence when Cumberbatchs Lamborghini caught Lawrences arm.

He just put his arm over him and took the full force of the impact on his forearm, which smashed the wing mirror, a friend of Lawrences said at the time. It totally ruptured his arm. There was blood everywhere.

And, while this wasnt Cumberbatchs near-death experience per see, Lawrence did get up and slap the star before realizing who he was. Things definitely couldve gotten heated. Cumberbatch reportedly offered Lawrence water, clean clothing, and a ride to the hospital.

3. The Dr. Strange star jumps out of planes for fun

While filming the voice of Smaug for The Hobbit, Cumberbatch used his free time in New Zealand to refill his adrenaline with skydiving instructor Mauricio Rochas.

I jumped out of planes, Cumberbatch told THR. I went in helicopters. I went hiking. I went boating. I did everything I could. Not just as an adrenaline junkie, but just losing myself in landscape. Landscape, I think, gives you something for nothing.

2. Cumberbatch prevented a robbery by getting in the way

In another Cumberbatch saves the day event, the actor spoke about an attempted robbery he helped stop, which he didnt think twice about.

I feel weird about this because I havent talked about it at home  it became this huge furor, he said on The Ellen DeGeneres Show (via People). I saw a Deliveroo bicycle delivery guy surrounded by some guys on a very cold November night. I just stopped the Uber we were in, got out and tried to intervene and tried to calm the kids down.

He continued: They looked riled up. I tried to calm the delivery guy down, who looked like he was about to fight for his life. I didnt really think twice about knives, or acid, or any of the other things that can be a part of that situation. Its a bit foolhardy, but no real bravery or heroics.

He added that he wasnt sure he stopped it but literally just got in the way. I also tried to stop traffic so they could witness it, and if anything did happen, I wanted to make sure that there were people there and that they might scare any violence out of the situation.

1. The Marvel hero escaped a kidnapping

In 2005, Cumberbatch traveled to South Africa to film the BBC mini-series To the Ends of the Earth. There, he and his friends were approached and carjacked by six armed men who bound his hands and forced him into the trunk to drive him elsewhere. The star admitted he feared the worst, according to Lions Roar.

The gunmen put a duvet over his head and dragged him out of the car, forcing him to his knees on a lone dirt road. Cumberbatch then began talking to the man to distract him from pulling the trigger. He explained what a mistake itd be to kill an actor and how difficult it might be to dispose of the body or evidence. Whatever he said, it worked. They drove off and left the star.

I went a bit nuts. I went to the ends of the earth in Namibia and went on an adrenaline-junkie thing in Swapismund, he said. Because when youve been forced to look into the idea that you die on your own, you kind of go, Oh, OK, well if Ive got my own company at the beginning and the end of this life, I might as well do a few crazy things with it under my own steam.

He continued: It was, I suppose, the polar-opposite reaction to becoming agoraphobic and internalized and haunted  theres enough of that in my work! I didnt want that small incident to put me off the beauty of Africa. I wanted to be part of the people again and not fear them.

Stephen Strange has nothing on Cumberbatch

RELATED: Is Benedict Cumberbatch a Stage Name? The Actor Almost Went With Something Else

The number of times Cumberbatch has experienced danger is more than the average person. Hes put himself in the thick of it without much consequence. Even still, with everything the star has gone through, he makes Dr. Strange look like a mere mortal.
Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker recently took their love overseas. The couple spent a few romantic days in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, before heading over to Europe, where they packed on the PDA in Italy and Paris. The vacation marked a huge milestone for the Blink-182 drummer as it was the first time he had flown since surviving that deadly plane crash in 2008.

So how did Barker overcome his fear of flying? According to the musician, all of the credit lies with Kardashian.

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker | Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Travis Barker had a longtime fear of flying

Since he was a child, Travis Barker has had a big fear of flying. Though he would fly on planes occasionally, Barker never enjoyed the experience and would mix drugs like Vicodin, Oxycodone and Valium with alcohol to self-medicate his angst.

In 2008, Barkers worst fear came true when his flight from South Carolina ended in disaster. The musician was on board a small aircraft with five others when it crashed and caught on fire. The horrific incident killed four people, including Barkers assistant and security guard, and left him with third-degree burns on more than half his body.

The drummers friend, Adam DJ AM Goldstein, also survived with severe burns but struggled in the wake of the accident, with him dying from a drug overdose a year later.

Following that fateful day, Barker vowed never to fly again and spent the next few years traveling on tour buses and cruise ships.

Kourtney Kardashian helped Travis Barker overcome his fear

Though Travis Barker recently expressed possibility of him flying again on Twitter, he likely didnt think that would happen anytime soon. But to everyones surprise, he recently overcame his fear to take his first plane ride in 13 years  and its all thanks to the support of his girlfriend Kourtney Kardashian.

In a new interview with Nylon, the musician revealed how Kardashian helped him fly again after that horrific plane crash in 2008.

Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker | Photopix/GC Images

RELATED: Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker Hit a Big Pandemic Milestone

I made a deal with her that she had just said to me, I would love to do so much traveling with you. I want to go to Italy with you. I want to go to Cabo with you. I want to go to Paris with you. I want to go to Bora Bora with you,' he recalled. And I said, Well, when the day comes you want to fly, Im telling you Ill do it with you. I would do anything with you. And just give me 24 hours notice. And thats what she did.

By getting a 24-hour notice, Barker was able to prepare for the flight mentally. The night before take-off, he and a friend did some breathing work, which helps Barker go deeper into his subconscious.

Once he and Kardashian arrived at their destination, Barker felt awesome, telling the outlet that the flight was the easiest ever.

Travis Barker feels invincible with girlfriend Kourtney Kardashian by his side

Though flying again wasnt on his radar before getting into a relationship with Kourtney Kardashian, Travis Barker decided to take the plunge after realizing that he can do anything with her by his side.

RELATED: Travis Barker Cherishes Kourtney Kardashian and What They Have  Things Come Natural

Its still something very new to me, but having something that gives me the strength and hope to be able to overcome things that were so traumatic in my life, it just says a ton, he told Nylon. Shes definitely that for me. Im invincible when Im with her. Its just like I never dreamed, I never even considered flying again.
Kourtney Kardashian was thrust into the spotlight after appearing on Keeping Up With the Kardashians with her family, but it wasnt her first reality TV appearance. Before she was on the hit E! series, the Poosh founder starred on a show called Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive.

Reality TV Personality Kourtney Kardashian attends the PrettyLittleThing by Kourtney Kardashian launch party. | Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic/Getty Images

What is Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive?

Also from E!, this was a show that followed children with rich parents as they left their posh lives behind to work on a cattle ranch in Colorado. Kardashian, the daughter of famed lawyer Robert Kardashian and momager Kris Jenner, appeared on the inaugural season in 2005. She was joined by Haley Giraldo, Courtenay Semel, Noah Blake, Alex Quinn, Brittny Gastineau, George Foreman III, Shanna Ferrigno, Fabian Basabe, and Alexander Clifford.

The series spent one season on the air before being canceled for reasons that are still unclear. Thankfully, Kardashian found success soon after when Keeping Up With the Kardashians premiered on E!.

Before the glam & 10 years of fam, Kourt was the queen of the rodeo on Filthy Rich: Cattle Drive. https://t.co/mvHlHfmVoZ pic.twitter.com/QFi7nDAIru  Kardashians on E! (@KUWTK) April 16, 2019

RELATED: What Is Kourtney Kardashians Net Worth?

Keeping Up With the Kardashians was a life-changer

Pitched by Kris Jenner and developed by Ryan Seacrest, Keeping Up With the Kardashians arrived in October 2007 and made stars of its cast practically overnight.

RELATED: Viewers Explain Why They Watch Keeping Up with the Kardashians

Fans loved their personalities, family dynamic, and antics, making it one of the top shows on the air at the time. The show chronicled various relationships, breakups, falling-outs, births, scandals, and also spawned several spinoffs. It ultimately lasted for a whopping 20 seasons before ending in June 2020.

We just need a minute to regroup, Kim Kardashian West told Grazia magazine of the decision to end the show. You know, we havent had a break for fourteen years. Weve gone in filming a season, then a spin-off, and I think theres no other way to say it other than, we just live such big lives. And we have kids now. And they need us. Theres so much going on that, even just for a minute we need a break.

A new Hulu series is coming

While fans were processing the news of the shows end, it was reported that the family had signed a deal with Hulu to create global content.

The Kardashian Jenners will create new global content under a multi-year deal, to stream exclusively on Hulu in the U.S. and in multiple territories on Star internationally, read a tweet shared to Hulus Twitter account.

The Kardashian Jenners will create new global content under a multi-year deal, to stream exclusively on Hulu in the U.S. and in multiple territories on Star internationally. pic.twitter.com/Dke17Gfvrd  Hulu (@hulu) December 10, 2020

RELATED: Kardashian New Show: Everything We Know About the Hulu Series So Far

This is the next chapter, Jenner explained in May at a Disney event (via Us Weekly). In the new show, youll see us evolving as a family, fans want us to be who we are and since moment one, theyve been emotionally invested in our show just like we are. The fans will love seeing us continue the journey. I cant say much about whats coming but spoiler, were going to look fabulous and everyones going to watch.

Its amazing how far the family has come since we first met them, especially Kardashian. And we cant wait to see where they go next.
Frank Oz has one of the most iconic voices in show business. Not only has he played Master Yoda, but he is responsible for some of Sesame Street and the Muppets most pivotal characters. For close to 40 years, Oz was the hand that operated Fozzie Bear, Bert, Cookie Monster, Grover, and Miss Piggy.

Not only did Oz collaborate alongside Muppet founder Jim Henson, but he also directed some of the most revered comedy films of the last 30 years.

Oz gave an interview in late August 2021 where he broke down why he was no longer working with the Muppets.

Frank Oz | Jim Bennett/WireImage

Since the beginning of The Muppets, Frank Oz has been there

Oz was born in England and moved to California as a child. He met Henson as a teenager while both were employed as puppeteers at an amusement park. For many years, the two worked together on various projects, including The Muppet Show, Sesame Street, and Labyrinth.

His directing credits with the Jim Henson Company include The Dark Crystal and The Muppets Take Manhattan. He also is known for making Little Shop of Horrors, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, What about Bob? and Death at a Funeral.

Id love to do the Muppets again, Frank Oz says

Despite a career voicing Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Animal, Grover, and Cookie Monster, Oz eventually parted ways with the Muppets. Oz told The Guardian that Disney, who now owns the Muppet characters, was no longer interested in hiring him.

Id love to do the Muppets again, but Disney doesnt want me, Oz said. He added, Sesame Street hasnt asked me for 10 years.

Oz claimed that he and the company differed on the Muppets creative direction. They dont want me because I wont follow orders, and I wont do the kind of Muppets they believe in, he continued.

SHOUT OUT to Frank Oz (@TheFrankOzJam) for no particular reason other than his unparalleled artistry, a lifetime of superb work as a director/actor/writer/mensch & for our friendship that has lasted longer than many marriages. Thanks, pal Mar pic.twitter.com/AdpTW2jK71  Mark Hamill (@HamillHimself) May 25, 2020

The puppeteer did not hold back when asked about his thoughts on the franchises current state. The souls not there, he said. The soul is what makes things grow and be funny.

Oz stated that there was a difference between the Jim Henson Muppets and the Disney Muppets. Theres an inability for corporate America to understand the value of something they bought. They never understood, with us, its not just about the puppets, its about the performers who love each other and have worked together for many years.

The former Muppeteer believes selling out is what killed Jim Henson

In one of the interviews most controversial statements, Oz attributed Hensons death to the effects of selling out.

The Disney deal is probably what killed Jim, he claimed. It made him sick.

In 1989, Henson and Michael Eisner began deliberations to merge the formers company with Disney. The deal was worth over $150 million and included the company using Henson as a consultant.

A fantastic interview with Frank Oz, with Frank being typically frank, and VERY much Frank as he talks about Jim Henson, Yoda, and the modern Muppets.



(I also love that you can practically hear him flinch at the use of the term Muppeteer.) https://t.co/y2cNENDz6V  Brian Jay Jones (@brianjayjones) August 30, 2021

Henson died of toxic shock syndrome before an official agreement was reached.

Eisner was trying to get Sesame Street, too, which Jim wouldnt allow, Oz said. But Jim was not a dealer. He was an artist, and it was destroying him, it really was.Oz reiterated at the end of the interview that he was pushed out of The Muppets organization. However, his iconic characters from Sesame Street and The Muppet Show still hold a special place in his heart. I miss them and love them, he said.

RELATED: Labyrinth: Bog of Eternal Stench Really Stank and Swallowed a Crew Member Up
Chemists at Goethe University Frankfurt have developed two new classes of materials in the field of nanomaterials and investigated them together with their cooperation partners at the University of Bonn: for the first time, they have succeeded in producing a nano sphere of silicon atoms and a building block for a diamond-like crystal of the semiconductor elements silicon and germanium. The two new classes of materials have potential applications in the miniaturisation of computer chips, in high-resolution screens for smartphones, and in solar cells and light-emitting diodes with the highest levels of efficiency.

The latest generations of computer chips are only a few nanometres in size and are becoming ever more energy-saving and powerful as a result of progressive miniaturisation. Since the etching processes traditionally used in chip production are increasingly reaching their limits, the development of new, nanostructured semiconductor materials is essential. Such nano semiconductors also play a central role in converting electricity into light and vice versa.

A team at Goethe University Frankfurt led by Matthias Wagner has now succeeded in synthesising molecular nano "spheres" made of 20 silicon atoms, so-called silafulleranes. The second new class of materials are crystal building blocks made of 10 silicon and germanium atoms that have a diamond-like structure. Decisive insights into the electronic structures of the new compounds were provided by computer-based theoretical analyses from Stefan Grimme's research group in Bonn.

The 20 silicon atoms of silafullerane form a dodecahedron, a body composed of regular pentagons. It encapsulates a chloride ion. A hydrogen atom protrudes outward at each silicon corner of the body. Doctoral student Marcel Bamberg, who synthesised the molecule, explains: "Our silafullerane is the long-sought progenitor of this new class of substances. The hydrogen atoms can easily be replaced with functional groups, thus giving the silafullerane different properties." Bonn quantum chemist Markus Bursch adds: "We support the targeted generation of potentially useful properties with theoretical predictions of their resulting effects."

The silicon-germanium adamantane represents the building block of a mixed silicon-germanium alloy. Benedikt Kostler, who is developing the compounds as part of his doctoral thesis, says: "Recent studies have shown that silicon-germanium alloys are superior to pure silicon semiconductors in important application areas. However, the production of such alloys is very difficult and you often get mixtures of different compositions. We have succeeded in developing a simple synthesis path for the basic building block of silicon-germanium alloys. Our silicon-germanium adamantane therefore enables the investigation of important chemical and physical properties of silicon-germanium alloys on the molecular model. We also want to use it in the future to produce silicon-germanium alloys with faultless crystal structures."

Carbon, which is chemically very similar to the elements silicon and germanium, occurs in comparable forms to the two new classes of substances: Hollow spheres of carbon atoms ("fullerenes") correspond to silafulleranes, and diamonds consisting of carbon are composed of adamantane subunits. Among other things, fullerenes increase the efficiency of organic solar cells, could make the batteries of electric cars safer, and promise progress in high-temperature superconductivity. Nanodiamonds also have a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to catalysis research.

Against this background, the researchers in Frankfurt and Bonn are excited to see in which fields their silafulleranes and silicon-germanium adamantanes will become established. Matthias Wagner says: "It is already possible to generate light in all colours of the visible spectrum with nanostructured silicon and germanium in the form of quantum dots, and this is being tested for computer and mobile phone displays, as well as in telecommunications. Apart from the chemical-technical potential, I am personally fascinated by the high symmetry of our compounds: For example, our silafullerane is one of the five Platonic solids and possesses a timeless beauty."
CHENEY -- A betrayal of the Afghan people.

That's how local author, humanitarian nd National Guard veteran Trent Reedy characterizes the Aug. 31 American withdrawal from Afghanistan.

"Biden comes along, and he throws it all away," Reedy said, shaking his head in disgust. "I don't care what anybody says, he's the only president, he's the only commander-in-chief.

"He's the only guy that gave that order. And he condemned millions of people to Taliban oppression."

The withdrawal came less than a month after the anniversary of the 9/11 terrorism attacks, launched by leaders who were later determined to be Taliban hiding in Afghanistan.

Born and raised in Iowa, Reedy enlisted in the National Guard after high school to fund his college education.

But after 9/11, his views about military service drastically changed.

When George Bush mounted the podium on Sept. 20, 2001, to deliver an address to a joint session of Congress, calling upon the youth of America, Reedy felt like Bush was speaking directly to him: "I really took that to heart, I took it seriously."

So when it was his time to deploy in 2004, he went with a patriot's zeal and, admittedly, a deep distrust for the Afghan people.

"I was in a combat job. I wasn't a medic; I was a combat engineer, and I was very angry. I was angry about 9/11 . . . I was mad that I had to be away from my family, and I wanted to go get these guys. Send me out there, I'll find these Taliban guys, I'll find these Al-Qaeda guys, let's go get 'em," he said.

But instead of battling the Taliban with bullets, the National Guard employed their skills constructing schools and infrastructure for a desperate populace; kids without clean water or adequate housing, women savaged under Taliban rule.

It didn't take long, embedded in such plight, for the homesick GIs to engage with the locals, who often supplied food, friendship, support, and lifesaving intelligence on the enemy. In one instance Reedy was protruding from the turret of a Humvee with a sleek, black machine gun, when a local man rushed into the roadway, and stopped the column. In broken English, he warned the Americans they were about to enter a minefield  a claim that later proved to be true. "One jumpy 19-year-old kid could have just mowed that guy in half with his machine gun . . . he risked his life to help us," Reedy marveled.

"I made the naive mistake of blaming all the Afghans," he continued. "Probably, if I'm being honest, blaming all the Muslims. So, I didn't want to help them, I wanted to fight. Those were our orders. But eventually we got out to work with the people, and you see all these Afghan kids, and they're great. And they don't have anything. Lucky if they have shoes . . . I couldn't stay angry enough."

And it was during this impressionable time that the lanky Cheney resident met the man who would become his co-author and friend, Jawad Arash; and the source of his insomnia since

After President Joe Biden announced the withdrawal from Afghanistan, like thousands of other personnel that aided coalition forces, Arash was trapped in the country and left to the will of the Taliban.

"He believed in the power of education, that [America] could make thing better. That his kids wouldn't have to live in a Taliban Hellhole, like he grew up in," Reedy said. "Now, Biden has just condemned them to that."

According to the White House, more than 120,000 people were evacuated in the two-week operation that saw 13 servicemembers killed by a suicide bomber Aug. 26.

This officially ends a 20-year war that cost more than $2 trillion and the lives of over 2,000 U.S. military personnel.

For Reedy, the only solace found in an otherwise bleak situation remains the character of Afghan people.

"Even though he is essentially a Taliban target . . . Jawad Arash remains so hopeful and courageous," Reedy said. "He's a real inspiration.

"And if there's a hope for Afghanistan, it's with him and people like him because Afghans are indominable, wonderful people."

Scott Davis can be reached at news@cheneyfreepress.com.
In this July 23 photo, John OConnor speaks after being sworn in as Oklahomas new attorney general at the state Capitol in Oklahoma City. OConnor says he is dropping his appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court in the first-degree murder case of death row inmate Shaun Bosse. OConnor said Sept. 3 he made the decision after a state appellate court ruled the high courts decision in a landmark tribal sovereignty case does not apply retroactively.
This week, Robert E. Lee at long last retreated from Richmond. The statue of the Confederate general on Monument Avenue in Richmond was removed from its pedestal, as citizens of the city cheered from the streets. Watching the granite gray warhorse suspended in the air prompted me to think of a conversation I once had about whether a picture of Lee in a seminary dorm room should stay or go.

A student had written to me to ask about a painting he had of LeeI believe the painting was a family heirloom and, if I remember correctly, there may have even been a family connection to Lee himself. He said that a fellow ministry student, an African American man, winced when he saw the painting in the hallway of the seminary apartment.

The white southern student asked me, Should I take it down? I responded that he should, and then I gave biblical and historical reasons as to why I didnt think that Lee and other Confederate leaders were worthy of honor.

There was one person, though, whose opinion I wanted to seek, and that was the bard of Henry County, Kentucky: Wendell Berry.

Around the time that I had sent my response to the student, I was out at the poet and novelists farm, where at his kitchen table I awkwardly brought up the subject of Lee. I say awkwardly because I was quite sure that Berry would disagree with my counsel. After all, I had just read a defense hed made of Lee, and I was sure he would think that the pictures removal was one more example of a mobilized and rootless modern society that refused to even remember the past.

Other than the one essay, however, I really had no reason to guess his response. Berry, after all, is an agrarian writer but decidedly not in the strain of moonlight and magnolias Southern agrarianism, which at best whitewashes and at worst romanticizes the violent white supremacist caste system of old Dixie. To the contrary, he has written poignantly on the hidden wound of white supremacy and the damage it has done.

Still, I found the authors 1970s-era essay on Lee inconsistent. He portrayed the general as an exemplar of someone facing the choice between principle and community, when he resigned his commission in the United States Army to join the Confederate cause. To Berry, Lees motivation was not a defense of slavery but rather a refusal to go to war against his relatives and his home of Virginia. The author concluded the General was right.

As a highly principled man, Berry wrote of Lee, he could not bring himself to renounce the very ground of his principles. And devoted to that ground as he was, he held in himself much of his regions hope of the renewal of principle. His seems to me to have been an exemplary American choice, one that placed the precise Jeffersonian vision of a rooted devotion to community and homeland above the abstract feeling of loyalty and duty of an American citizen.

Berry was right, it seems to me, that morality is grounded best in what he would call membership rather than in abstractions. Where he was wrong, though, was in seeing the boundaries of that membership. The precise evil that Lee fought to maintain was a community in which some people were seen as members and others were seen as property to be exploited and tortured.

Lees place in this story can be seen in his decision to take up of arms against the Union in defense of a slave system. But its even more evident in the way his image has become iconic of the Lost Cause white backlash against Black civil rights.

The reason white nationalists streamed into Charlottesville at the 2017 Unite the Right rally was over Confederate monuments. Those with tiki torches were not motivated by broadening a vision of community but rather by restricting it. You will not replace us; Jews will not replace us, they chanted. The definition of the word us is key.

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By contrast, a Christian vision of membership is a repudiation of blood and soil community-over-principle. It replaces that not with a set of principles apart from community but with a new sense of community altogether.

After announcing his ministry in his hometown synagogue, Jesus first act was to redefine the community as one that included Gentilesthe widow of Zarephath, and even dreaded Syrians such as Naaman the warrior (Luke 4:2527). In the short run, this decision fractured the community, as filled with wrath, they sought to thrown him off a cliff (vv. 2829, ESV throughout).

But that fracturing was necessary for a kingdom in which there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all (Col. 3:11).

When Simon Peter refused to eat with the Galatian Gentiles, he might have believed he was choosing community over principle, since to eat with that group would have offended his own Jewish people. In reality, though, he was acting not in step with the truth of the gospel (Gal. 2:14)not only by betraying a Christian principle but also by betraying a community of Jews and Gentiles whom the Spirit defined, against all odds, as brothers and sisters.

Elsewhere in his work, Berry fully understood and prophetically envisioned that sort of principled community. He wrote, for instance, of the valor of coal country people who stood upsometimes aloneagainst mountaintop removal and other ecological devastations. And he noted that change most often comes from the marginsfrom those who are distant enough from established orthodoxies (that is, established communities) to come back with a renewed vision of other possible futures.

In that context, to revere the myth of Robert E. Lee is to claim membership in a Lost Cause. But it is also to deny membership in a community that is broader and richerwhere the whole body suffers when one person is maimed or raped or kidnapped or enslaved or lynched.

When I asked Berry about the Lee picture, he became quiet for a moment and then started talking about other related issues until the conversation was far away from the students question about the portrait. Soon enough, we were talking about various other matters. But as I was about to leave, the essayist leaned over and said, Id take that picture down; wouldnt you?

He was right that time. And I would like to think that when Berry sees a city free from a monument used to hurt others, he will see those cheering crowdsBlack and white and Asian and Hispanicfor what they are and what hes hoped for all along: a community.

Russell Moore is a public theologian and director of the Public Theology Project at Christianity Today.
The news media and the nation would later call the site of the largest terrorist attacks in United States history by the name ground zero. The firefighters and other first responders who rushed to the scene when two 110-floor buildings collapsed into 14.6 acres of mangled steel and concrete would call it the Pit.

But when Andrew Columbia, a pastor and retired New York City police officer, arrived that Tuesday morning in September, those names hadnt yet emerged from the acrid smoke. Twenty years later, Columbia remembers the gray dust and, out of that dust, the faces of the police officers, medics, and firefighters who had seen devastation beyond comprehension.

They were weeping. No one was really talking. They were in shock. I just walked up and offered prayer. Didnt even ask, Columbia said. No one refused it.

In the years since then, as anniversaries have come and gone and the wreckage has been transformed into a memorial, Columbia has heard the periodic reminders to Never Forget. But the first-responder community and the New York City pastors who minister to them have never needed that slogan. Forgetting has proved impossible.

The trauma of 9/11 has been a daily reality and a spiritual need for many in the past two decades.

This doesnt mean they always talked about their experience in terms of post-trauma. Up until that time, post-traumatic stress just wasnt language that we had, said John Picarello, pastor of House on the Rock Christian Fellowship, a nondenominational church on Staten Island.

Like many pastors of small congregations in the outer boroughs, Picarello was bivocational in 2001. Or really, trivocational. ...

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What if some of our greatest theologians are the last people wed consider theologians? This is the riveting question posed by author Kat Armas in her new book, Abuelita Faith. A second-generation Cuban American who grew up on the outskirts of Miami's Little Havana neighborhood, Kats earliest theological formation came from her grandmotherher abuelitawho fled Cuba during the height of political unrest and raised three children alone after her husbands death. In her grandmothers life, Kat discovered a bold expression of faith that has challenged, motivated, and inspired her in her own spiritual journey. Today as a writer, speaker, and podcaster, Kat shows us how voices from the marginsthose often dismissed because of their gender, race, socioeconomic status, or lack of educationhave more to teach us about following God than we realize.

In this episode, Heather and Kat discuss everyday theologians, the power of our family stories, and what we can learn from women in the Bible about survival, strength, and resilience. You will see quickly why Kat is one of Heathers favorite social media follows. Find her at KatArmas.com and on Twitter @kat_armas.

Also, in our #GrowingViral segment, meet Raquel Mentor. Raquel is a social media manager who helps people, churches, and brands share their value with online audiences. You can find Raquel active on Instagram @thementorlife and on Twitter @raqueljmentor.

Reach out to Heather Thompson Day on Twitter @HeatherTDay and Instagram @heatherthompsonday.

Viral Jesus is a production of Christianity Today

Host and creator: Heather Thompson Day

Producer: Loren Joseph

Executive Producer: Ed Gilbreath

Director of CT Podcasts: Mike Cosper
After criticism, Jesse Duplantis says ministry donated $100K in generators to Ida victims

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Louisiana televangelist Jesse Duplantis hit back at critics who charged that he and his ministry werent doing enough to help his storm-ravaged community of St. Charles Parish, where Hurricane Ida left most residents without power.

Duplantis' Covenant Church is located in Destrehan, St. Charles Parish, where nearly every home and structure was touched by Idas heavy winds and rain, and officials believe power might not be restored in the area until the end of September, Fox 8 reported.

We were really devastated by this storm, Parish President Matthew Jewell told the network while comparing the damage to that of Hurricane Katrina. Its going to be a long restoration process.

St. Charles Parish was one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Ida. Duplantis, who also leads Jesse Duplantis Ministries, and his wife, Cathy, were forced to defend themselves in a video message on Facebook Tuesday, after people accused his church of doing nothing to help his community as they suffer through the aftermath of the hurricane.

Were helping people literally all over everywhere, Duplantis insisted. The problem is when you come and look at our ministry you cant see any of that because we had oak trees down, breaking this and we had to get all that stuff out. Thank God for people that came and helped us do all of those things.

Youre hearing all kinds of rumors that were not doing this, were not doing [that], thats all a bunch of malarkey. I could use another word, but you understand what Im talking about, he continued before revealing that his ministry had already donated some $100,000 worth of generators and he had plans to do even more.

I made up my mind that were going to be a blessing and are a blessing.  Weve already given away $100,000 worth of generators  so God has been so good. Not trying to brag about that, he said. We want to do more, and we are going to do more. I mean, Ive never seen so many trees, Cathy.

The 72-year-old televangelist explained that 160 mph gusts of wind from Hurricane Ida did some damage to the roof of his home which he is getting fixed. He also said he's been giving spiritual and physical food to the community that many of his critics have omitted to highlight.

Not only have we been giving out spiritual food but weve been giving out physical food, all those kinds of things. But you know, people dont want to hear that because you gotta touch the heart of an individual, Duplantis said.

He encouraged people to donate to his ministry so he could help people get into homes. He noted that during Hurricane Katrina, he was able to donate some $3 million in donations to assist people in need.

Brandi Abate, who said she lives in St. Rose, not far from Duplantis' home, challenged his claims later that day in an extended post on Facebook.

Jesse. I am a child of God I am also in your community. Ive passed your church and home several times and have seen absolutely no activity. No prayer services on the front lawn. No ice, water, foo, or for Heavens sake these generators you speak of. Im not condemning your words but I am questioning your actions, she said, before adding that other churches in the area with fewer resources have been busy helping their neighbors.

Much smaller churches are in the trenches with us while you sit in that tax free monstrosity. Outside of your podcasts and Facebook staged videos Ive not seen nor heard from you or your church staff. Ive not been lended(sic) a hand or even consolation that things will be ok. Ya know who did? The pastor I just met at St Rose Community Church. Ya know who else did? Our Sheriffs office. Mt. Zion church. Our council people. Our parish president. Our senator!!! But you? No sir. Not a word, she continued.

Louisianas death toll from Hurricane Ida rose to 26 on Wednesday, just days after the reported number of deaths was believed to be 13.

According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the causes of the additional deaths was due to drowning, lack of oxygen, heat exhaustion, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other storm-related events.
Methodist Health System grants COVID-19 vaccine exemption to employees after legal pressure

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A network of medical centers in North Texas has agreed to grant four employees an exemption to its mandate that all employees receive the COVID-19 vaccine for religious reasons after receiving a demand letter from a conservative legal group.

The Liberty Counsel sent a letter to Methodist Health System on Tuesday on behalf of healthcare workers who are opposed to getting vaccinated against COVID-19 due to the development of the vaccine being associated with aborted fetal cell research.

On Wednesday, Liberty Counsel announced that MHS had given three of the employees immediate exemptions and that a fourth employee was expecting to receive an exemption soon.

The nonprofit urged other employees to step forward to request a similar exemption.

In a statement, the counsel quoted from a message by MHS given to three employees, explaining that the initial denial of an exemption had been reversed.

The Exemption Committee re-analyzed some of the exemption requests that were submitted and had been initially denied ... and has reversed its initial decision and has now approved your exemption, stated MHS, as quoted in the statement.

Liberty Counsel Founder and Chairman Mat Staver said he was happy for these health care workers who received religious accommodations.

However, many more have been denied by the sham committee designed to force employees to take these shots. What kind of an employer acts this way toward these health care heroes? Staver asked.

On July 29, the Dallas, Texas-based MHS announced that its approximately 10,000 employees would be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 1.

The highly contagious Delta variant is causing another spike in the number of COVID-19 infections in North Texas," MHS leadership stated in the announcement. "We believe the best way to keep our hospitals and communities safe is to achieve a fully vaccinated workforce."

MHS encouraged employees who may have objections on medical or religious grounds to apply for an exemption by Sept. 10, so it could be reviewed by the deadline.

On Sept. 7, the Liberty Counsel sent a complaint letter to MHS leadership on behalf of four employees who claimed that they were unlawfully denied an exemption.

MHS cannot compel any employees compliance with MHSs mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy against the employees sincerely held religious beliefs, read the letter, in part.

Moreover, it is unlawful for MHS to deny any employees request for religious accommodation either because other religious adherents have beliefs different from the employees or because of the employees past personal health decisions, whatever the employees theological reasons for those decisions.

COVID-19 vaccine mandates have been a source of controversy for healthcare workers in Texas.

Over 150 nurses and staff at the Houston Methodist Hospital's health system, which consists of seven hospitals and more than 26,000 workers, lost their jobs for refusing to abide by the hospital system's demand they get vaccinated or receive a medical or religious exemption by a June deadline.

Last month, a lawsuit was filed on behalf of 62 former employees of the Houston Methodist medical system, alleging they were wrongfully dismissed because they did not receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The lawsuit was filed about two months after another lawsuit challenging Houston Methodist Hospital's vaccine mandate was dismissed.
Evangelical families in Mexico lose access to water, services for refusing to deny their faith

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Two evangelical families in central Mexico have been threatened with being cut off from essential services or expelled from the community if they continue to refuse to deny their faith and pay a fine illegally levied against them, according to a report.

The families of Nemesio Cruz Hernandez and Eligio Santiago Hernandez, who are from the First Baptist Church in the La Mesa Limantitla area in Hidalgo states Huejutla de los Reyes Municipality, were threatened during a community meeting on Monday, the U.K.-based group Christian Solidarity Worldwide reported.

At the meeting, the evangelical families were forbidden to even speak as they were threatened.

On Aug. 3, community leaders, identified as Jose Marcos Martinez and Julio Alvarado Hernandez, had made similar threats and instructed them to stop holding worship services in the home of Bartolo Martinez Hernandez, who was also fined for allowing services in his house.

In January 2019, many evangelical families were forced to sign an agreement renouncing their faith. While eight families signed it, the families of Cruz Hernandez and Santiago Hernandez refused to do so.

The community leaders then blocked the two families access to water, sewer services, government benefit programs and the community mill for over a year until they were forced to sign an extra-legal agreement on Jan. 15, 2020, in which they renounced their right to hold religious services.

The agreement said each family would be ordered to pay an illegal fine of $3,000 ($57,700 Mexican pesos). State authorities paid part of the fine, but the families have continued to be threatened with forced displacement in several follow-up meetings throughout 2020 and this year, CSW said, adding that the amount of the fine is based on the costs incurred by community leaders in their efforts to halt any investigation into crimes or human rights violations associated with the case.

In Mexico, such extra-legal agreements are often used in lieu of appropriate justice mechanisms when the rights of religious minorities are violated.

The states officials must intervene as a matter of urgency, CSWs Head of Advocacy, Anna-Lee Stangl, said. If the state government refuses to protect the rights of religious minorities, the federal government must intervene.

Stangl added: The government, at both state and federal levels, must address the culture of impunity which has allowed violations like these to go unchecked for far too long, ensuring that families like those of Mr. Cruz Hernandez and Mr. Santiago Hernandez are free to practice any religion or belief of their choosing without being forced to pay illegal fines or facing pressure to renounce their beliefs under threat of criminal actions including the cutting of basic services and forced displacement.

This is not a one-off incident of Christian persecution in Mexico, which has risen due to drug cartel violence, persecution by traditionalist Catholics and violent discrimination by anti-Christian left-wing groups, Open Doors USA previously reported.

Last year, Mexico was [No. 52 on Open Doors USA's World Watch List]. Its jumped up a bunch, Open Doors USA President and CEO David Curry told The Christian Post in an earlier interview. That would most certainly be around the issues of violence and drug cartels.

Traditionalist Catholics often persecute Mexican Christians, too, he said. In this way, they resemble many small, rural groups of people practicing ancient folk religions around the world. Open Doors calls this kind of persecution clan violence.

These rural indigenous groups see Christian churches as an outside force. They can harass and bother churches and believers who might be in the community, Curry said. Its within these four states in Mexico: Chiapas, Hidalgo, Guerero, Oaxaca. Its very localized.
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On the 26th of August, I celebrated one year anniversary with The Christian Post. I organized a prayer meeting with my family, where we express our profound gratitude to God for connecting us with The Christian Post and prayed for the entire CP team. We took the time to reflect on our missionary work before and after our paths crossed with CP.

The differences are stark, and we do not want to take it for granted. There is no doubt that God has used CP to promote our mandate to reach the unreached in Nigeria and helped us to relay the message of the cross to American Christians as well.

We started our ministry in 2007 amidst numerous challenges. We had always felt like quitting our missions work because of persecution, lack of laborers and lack of funds. We prayed fervently for God to raise those who will hold lifelines for us through giving and praying. In August 2020, as I was scrolling through the online page of CP, I noticed the "Submit your article" feature. I pulled out an excerpt from my book The Mystery of the Cross Revealed and submitted it. To my great surprise I got an email from CP requesting for my headshot and bio. Many people have since purchased my book on Amazon after reading my articles, and I officially started my journey into the world of Christian journalism, all thanks to CP.

Every time my op-ed is published, Christians from United States write to me privately to express their gratitude and their thoughts on my op-ed, and how it has impacted their lives. These testimonies and their supports have strengthened me so much. Ive recently read a comment on my op-ed that gave me hope to continue my work, no matter the challenges. On my op-ed What the devil is doing to steal our crown of Christian service someone commented: "Nice article. Even I, a liberal atheist, could understand and appreciate." I never knew that I will ever had another opportunity to minister to an atheist. I have tried doing so in the past but had received heaps of insults. CP has helped me minister to an atheist who understood the message of the cross and the glorious Gospel.

Christian Post has served as a liaison between Afri-mission and Evangelism Network and some mission-minded individuals and organizations in the United States. I received a mail from Pastor Benjamin Faircloth of Ignited Church based in Lavonia, Georgia. He said that he read my article in CP and would love to support our ministry.

In all our mission fields, children roam the village like wild animals. In 2018 we decided to build schools in our mission fields. We started building but could not continue for lack of funds. A donor who read my article in CP helped us to complete our first Orphan and Vulnerable Children School. This project is dear to us because in the 15 communities we evangelized, not a single person has gone to school.

The completion of our first school project is a great milestone in our humanitarian intervention to the unreached. The children are getting ready to start school this month and we are trusting God for provisions for all their needs, and to scale up this project to other communities. Ignited Church supplied furniture for the classrooms, and when bandits attacked our mission fields and displaced our converts, Pastor Benjamin and his flocks were there for us. They sent funds for us to purchase relief materials for all of our displaced members.

The voice which CP gave to me is getting louder every day. One morning I woke up to see a mail from Brother Gary McCants  the host of Challenge of Faith Radio Program on Blog talk Radio, which airs from New York City. He appreciated my articles and requested an interview. After the first interview, I started featuring on his weekly broadcast program, reaching many with the Gospel and encouraging them to be adequately involved in missionary activities. Sister Paxton from Oregon also sent me a mail appreciating my article and requesting that I teach her Virtual Bible Community phone program. I have volunteered to teach on this platform once a week. All these contacts wouldn't have been possible if CP had not opened the door for me.

In addition to everything else, our Diaspora Mission Project received a boost through Kingdom Missions fund's grant. We trained Diaspora missionaries and deployed them to reach the lost in Abuja and Nasarawa state, using Lee and Nancy Larsen Christian Kindness Template to facilitate the project. Many of the unreached have come to the saving knowledge of Jesus through this project. Our long-term objective is to send them to reach their communities after discipling them.

Please join us as we celebrate The Christian Post for their one year formidable partnership with us in our missionary service. They are not just publishing articles, they are sending missionaries and touching lives. They are an invisible hand that navigates and mobilizes the workforce for the End Time harvest. CP is a ballpoint pen in the hand of God. God bless The Christian Post!
Madison Prewett shares how God used her on The Bachelor; calls forth modern-day 'Esthers'

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Madison Prewett captivated the hearts of millions with her strong faith and convictions as a contestant on Season 24 of ABCs The Bachelor. She recently penned a book, Made For This Moment: Standing Firm with Strength, Grace, and Courage,where she details how God used her time on the reality dating show to draw people to Christ.

Since her time on The Bachelor, the 25 year old has gained a massive following online, with 2 million TikTok followers and 1.7 million Instagram followers.

She has used her platform to share her Christian faith and inspire others to stick to their convictions and answer God's calling on their life. Now, by sharing her personal journey, the young influencer continues her mission with her debut book.

Made For This Moment, which hits stores on Oct. 19, documents how a young Christian woman studying to be a pastor found herself on the secular program.

"Not only did I feel like I learned so much and I grew so much, but really just for everyone that God spoke to and encouraged through that, it was one of the coolest things to be able to say, 'God can use someone like me, God can use something like The Bachelor to bring glory to His name because that's just how big He is, Prewett shared with The Christian Post.

Prewett said she never imagined going on a secular reality show to find love. But doing so, she said, "showed me that we can't put God in a box."

"I think my whole life I just imagined, 'God shows up on mission trips, God shows up in churches, God shows up in the confinements of a home.' But I never would have imagined that God would use somebody like me and something like The Bachelor, something so secular, to make His name known," she said.

While on the show, Prewett revealed she is saving herself for marriage. Though she and bachelor Peter Webber were different, the couple hoped that love could conquer all. Prewett was eventually chased off by Webber's family, who were adamant their lifestyles would never work together.

The couple reportedly tried to rekindle their love once the show was over, and Webber even attended church with Prewett. Ultimately, though, it didn't work out.

But over a year after her relationship ended, Prewett believes her true purpose on the show was to encourage other women, including the other contestants, the producers and viewers.

That's all glory to God, she testified. It got me so passionate. That just shows me that God can use every single person out there no matter what they've been through, no matter what their situation looks like, and it's not confined to a perfect little box. He can use anything, anyone, anytime, because that's just how good He is.

"I learned so much through it. I feel like a lot of the girls on the show were so encouraged and a lot of them, honestly, have come to know Jesus through it, she continued, speaking of the fruit that came from her being on the series.

"So many girls have given their heart to Jesus and girls who have decided to wait until marriage, just hearing me talk about my decision. It has just been so cool, Prewett added. We're all called to step out in faith and sometimes it doesn't look like what we thought.

Made For This Moment features a foreword written by Sadie Robertson Huff. The book breaks down why Prewett decided to go on The Bachelor after being invited to participate in the dating competition. The decision to appear on the reality show, she said, was out of obedience to God.



"One of the biggest hearts behind my book is, I think so many people see character as one of those things that, it's who you are when no one is watching. But I believe that it's also who you are when everyone is watching and you're able to prepare, you're able to stand firm, you're able to stay true to yourself, you're able to stay true to your convictions, under pressure, under temptation. When you prepare in the private time, when you've prepared off-camera, when you've prepared when nobody was around, Prewett explained.

"When I came off the show, the question that everyone was asking me was, Maddie, how are you able to stay true to your convictions? How are you able to stand firm with the whole world watching, with so much temptation, with so many opinions? And I was like, 'Well, because I was able to do it when nobody was around because I had been practicing that leading up to those moments.'

"So I didn't have to hope that I had what it took to stand firm. I had been putting the right tools in the toolbox so that when that moment came, it just came out of me.

Prewett, who has a Bachelor of Science in communications from Auburn University and earned her certificate in pastoral leadership through Highlands College in 2018, said people see who they truly are when they are faced with pressure.

"It's so important to invest well. That's why it's so important to know who you are when nobody's around. Take those moments alone with God and figure out  Who am I? What do I believe? What kind of life do I want to live? When I'm alone with a guy in a room, what decisions do I want to make?

"When my friends start throwing these things at me and tell me this is what you need to do, this is who you need to be, this is where you need to go, what do I want to do in those moments?

Ask yourself those tough questions so that you're not just going off of feeling and impulse and off of what everybody else is doing, which is what I think most of us do. But then we find ourselves later on down the road like, Dang it, how did I get here?

She added: "Resentment follows, shame follows guilt follows. If we can take time to prepare before those moments come, if we can take time to ask ourselves those tough questions and pre-decide before those moments of pressure arise, we're going to find ourselves living a life that we're proud of, living a life where we're worthy of the calling that God has given us, living a life where we're walking in step with the spirit, rather than just following our fleshly desires and feelings.

Before Prewetts season on The Bachelor, the network highlighted another professing Christian, Luke Parker, on The Bachelorette. Parker's commitment to abstinence was highly criticized on the show, with bachelorette Hannah Brown declaring she could have sex with anyone and "Jesus still loves her.

"Previously, Christianity had been something that was mocked, Prewett said, explaining why she was initially hesitant to join the show.

It had been something that was looked down upon and almost made the person who stood up in their convictions, made them look foolish. I was like, 'Lord, I don't want to. I was like, Lord, no, pick someone else, it's not me. I don't think I'm your girl.' And time and time again, the Lord was chasing me down, like 'this is where I need you.' So I was like, 'OK, Lord, I'm going to trust you, and I'm going to follow whatever it looks like.'

What I've seen in my life is just the blessing that comes with obedience, she continued. You don't always understand it. There's not always this perfect formula. But when you just say, OK, God, I trust you, I'm going to be obedient, no matter the cost. It's crazy to see how God can move in you and how God can move through you.

Made For This Momentanswers challenging questions while offering advice on how to stick to one's convictions amid difficult circumstances. The former foster care recruiter structured her book with the biblical story of Esther in mind.



"That is such a powerful testimony. It's the only book in the Bible where God's name is never mentioned. It's such light and darkness. It's really this beautiful story of standing firm in your courage and convictions not knowing what will follow. It could cost you everything. But you could gain so many along the way and you could save people, Prewett explained.

She continued: "I want people to understand that just like Esther  she had to break free from her past, she had to overcome labels, she had to stand in courage even when she was probably so afraid. She had to go against the grain even though it may have cost her everything. I want to see modern Esthers in today's world rise up and say, 'This is who I am, not who you tell me who I am. This is who I am because this is who God says I am. And I'm going to walk in confidence. I'm going to walk in conviction; I'm going to walk in courage.

"I just saw this vision of Esthers being awoken. It's time for people to rise up to be unashamed of the Gospel, to be honest of their convictions and beliefs, and to walk out the person that God has called them to be and to make a difference. That is like my heart and just my prayer for this book, Prewett concluded.

Made For This Momentis now available for pre-order.
Media upset over corporate silence on Texas abortion law

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Corporate America declines to comment on Texas abortion ban, sighs the Financial Times.

Corporate Americas Response to Texas Abortion Law? Silence, bemoans The Daily Beast.

Where is the business backlash on Texass abortion law? demands Fortune.

You can almost feel the exasperation through your screen, the palpable outrage. How dare these corporations be so disloyal?! Over the Texas abortion law, woke capital has not quite reared its ugly head  more like a slight nod. So far, activist corporations have exercised uncharacteristic restraint, only able to muster toothless complaints where there was once the threat of mass boycotts. Since Governor Abbot signed the law, this is all the punishment woke capital has conjured:

The web hosting company GoDaddy dropped support for a site that allowed citizens to post tips about possible violations of the law.

Ride-sharing companies Lyft and Uber announced they would cover legal fees for their drivers who may be sued under the new law.

Lyft said they would donate $1 million to Planned Parenthood.

Dating sites Bumble and Match said they would launch a relief fund.

Thats how CNN summarized the corporate response to the law, which bans most abortions after 6 weeks. Because our culture has the attention span of a particularly scatterbrained goldfish, it may not be immediately obvious just how muted the corporate backlash has been by historical standards. Past attempts by state legislatures to put any limitation whatsoever on abortion were quickly followed with denouncements and the threat of boycotts by corporate management.

After Alabama passed its abortion restrictions in 2019, nearly 200 CEOs took out a full-page ad in the New York Times, perversely arguing that abortion restrictions are bad for health and business, under the headline Dont Ban Equality. (Odd choice of word  last time I checked, it was generally illegal to dismember adults.) When Georgia passed a heartbeat bill, Disney, Netflix, and WarnerMedia not-so-subtly implied they would boycott the state, which had become a highly coveted filming destination.

In the realm of corporate politics, shareholder activist groups have spent the last few years passing resolutions that are thinly veiled attempts at getting corporations to commit to the proposition that abortion is good for business. This is generally done by commissioning reports on the risks of attempts to restrict reproductive healthcare, or whatever euphemism for baby killing is in vogue.

Yet the corporate world has been surprisingly silent over what is arguably the most significant piece of pro-life legislation in decades. While conservative Christians have struggled with the dawning awareness that cultural libertinism need not be at odds with corporate power, the media has (mostly correctly) assumed that big business would stand on their side of the culture war. Naturally, they are confused at the relatively feeble response to Texas abortion bill from the private sector. In the past, corporations were all too enthusiastic; today, they are apathetic. What changed?

Over the latter years of the Trump administration and into the Biden presidency, there has been a massive shift in conservative attitudes towards woke capital. The pro-business and libertarian factions of the party have fallen into disrepute, and virtually every prospective future leader of the party (not to mention Trump himself) has at least signaled an anti-business bent. The Calvin Coolidge branch is routing in the face of the Roosevelt branchs cavalry charge.

Outside of politics, Christian corporate engagement has suddenly become a reality. Christian investors are beginning to take their rights as shareholders seriously. I have seen some of this first-hand, attending annual meetings and talking to Investor Relations representatives, through our analysis firm Bowyer Research. Christian investors are far more interested in corporate engagement than they once were.

For a long time, almost all shareholder action was done by secular left-wing activist groups. Now Christian conservative shareholders are becoming aware that they have the same rights as the other side and are actively engaging with corporations in a way they never have before. When we asked questions at shareholder meetings, corporate management was often on the defensive, and on some occasions willing to engage with us.

For years, woke capital has maintained a highly successful, mostly uncontested, alliance with the secular left. Now they are facing a pincer movement: from the top, a Republican party that increasingly views big business as an enemy, not an ally; from the bottom, conservative Christian shareholders who are sick of seeing their assets used to promote ideologies they detest. Corporate management appears to be increasingly aware that they cannot spit on everything conservative Christians value and expect Republicans to keep cutting their taxes.

Even if NARAL or some other activist group manages to convincea group of CEOs to state that abortion is good for business, there is far more hesitation to take a side on this highly controversial issue than there once was. Abortion is perhaps the single issue that animates religious voters the most. For a business to come out in favor of it, in this climate, with a Republican party actively looking for an excuse to punish corporations, and shareholders who are increasingly willing to use their legal authority, would be a dangerous bet. A simple risk analysis is keeping corporate activism in check.

Naturally, the media is shocked about this development. Corporate America has been a reliable ally of secular progressives for years, so its no wonder that the media is in despair over their newfound reticence. Molochs PR team doesnt often have to deal with hesitation. Its time they got used to it.
Tim Keller shares cancer update, how supporters can pray amid 'treatment, isolation and covid'

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Tim Keller shared an update regarding his battle with pancreatic cancer and revealed how supporters can pray for him as he navigates treatment, isolation and covid.

Keller, the 70-year-old founder of Redeemer Presbyterian Church and City to City, was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in May of 2020. On Sunday, he took to social media to give supporters a health update.

After surgery last May, I was granted a chemo holiday (missing one treatment) and was able to get out of town with my family for several weeks, he wrote. On August 23 I had a scan and the primary tumor had not progressed. However a mystery lump underneath the May surgical scar was removed and proved to be cancerous.

The Hope in Times of Fear author said his doctor has increased his chemotherapy back to the level it was before just to be safe. Though the increased treatment will have more side effects, it will hopefully have more therapeutic effects too.

Pancreatic cancer is able to learn how to evade medication, so it is only Gods power that we look to for complete healing, the pastor explained.

Please do pray that I will be able to fulfill my teaching and other obligations, and that the neuropathy and other side effects will be minimal while the medication will be effective against the cancer, and that we will run the race God has set before us with joy.

Keller also thanked supporters for their prayers, crediting the power of prayer for upholding both him and his wife, Kathy, as they "navigate treatment, isolation and covid.

The now-retired pastor is also a survivor of thyroid cancer, which he had in 2002.

In a previous interview with The Christian Post, Keller revealed he learned of his diagnosis while writing his latest book, which focuses on the transformative power of the resurrection.

Here I am, writing a book about the resurrection, and I realized I only half-believed I was going to die. I went back and realized that in some ways, I also only half-believed in the resurrection  not intellectually so much, but all the way down deep in my heart. I realized I needed to have a greater, a deeper faith in the resurrection, both intellectually and mentally, he continued.

Facing ones own mortality and spiritual reality, Keller told CP, drastically alters the way one looks at their time on Earth and magnifies the transformative power of the resurrection.

The things of Earth become less crucial. They're not so important to you; you realize you dont need them to be happy. Once I believe that I start to enjoy them more. I don't try to turn them into God; I don't try to turn them into Heaven, which is the only thing that can really satisfy my heart, he explained.

You find that you have to really have a real spiritual experience of God's reality so that the things of this Earth grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace, Keller said, quoting the century-old hymn.

The pastor told CP that regardless of what happens, hes ready for anything.

What the future holds, I dont know. Pray that I would have years and not months left, and that the chemotherapy would continue to be effective. But we are ready for whatever God decides for me. Were spiritually ready.

I do know, he added, that the resurrection of Jesus Christ really happened. And when I die, I will know that resurrection too.
Christian college continues fight to keep single-sex dorms, showers protected from Biden's LGBT policy

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The College of the Ozarks, a private Christian college in Point Lookout, Missouri, is continuing to fight a government policy prohibiting discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity after a judge dismissed its lawsuit.

The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit has agreed to expedite arguments in the case and schedule a hearing date in November. The college says the government policy is a violation of their First Amendment rights.

In their complaint filed in April, officials at College of the Ozarks asked a judge to set aside a Feb. 11 memorandum from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that administers and enforces the Fair Housing Act to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The college argued that it was issued without observance of procedure required by law, and is contrary to law, arbitrary, capricious, in excess of statutory jurisdiction, and contrary to constitutional rights.

The directive, argues the college, requires private religious colleges to place biological males into female dormitories and to assign them as females roommates.

It imposes an immediate and binding legislative rule under the Fair Housing Act, prohibiting all regulated entities, including the College, from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity both in occupancy of their dwellings and in policies governing those dwellings, the college explains. Additionally, the rule further prevents them from telling students that they can only be placed in dorms based on their biological sex.

For decades, the College has prohibited male students from living in female dormitories, and vice versa, regardless of whether those students identify with their biological sex. The College likewise separates intimate spaces such as showers and bathrooms in its dormitories, college officials said.

The College regularly makes statements communicating these same policies, including this month as it arranges student housing for the fall. But Defendants failed to take into consideration the College or other entities with similar student housing policies in promulgating the Directive.

U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark, appointed to the bench by former President Barack Obama, dismissed the case in June, arguing that College of the Ozarks failed to show an actual or imminent harm that would give it standing to sue. Plaintiff has not shown in its verified complaint that it has sustained, or is in immediate danger of sustaining, a concrete and particularized harm that is actual or imminent, not conjectural or hypothetical, Ketchmark wrote.

Plaintiff has not alleged it is being investigated, charged, or otherwise subjected to any enforcement action pursuant to the Memorandum; any application or enforcement of the FHA, HUD regulations, or the Memorandum to discrimination because of sexual orientation or gender identity; or the FHA, and HUDs implementing regulations. Plaintiff has not plausibly alleged any indication that such potential situation is imminent, she added.

The Religious Accountability Project, an activist organization that empowers queer, trans and nonbinary students at more than 200 taxpayer-funded religious colleges and universities that actively discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity/expression, has filed a separate lawsuit against the Department of Education challenging the Title IX exemption for religious colleges.

While Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education, the Biden administration has interpreted the statute to include discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity as a form of sex discrimination. According to Inside Higher Ed, one of the plaintiffs in that lawsuit is a former student at College of the Ozarks.

The student filed a Title IX complaint with the Department of Education alleging that the colleges policies and practices, including its housing policies, discriminated against LGBT students. Paul Southwick, a lawyer with the Religious Accountability Project, is calling for his case to be adjudicated.

We know there are transgender students right now who need the housing protection that the government has promised to provide through the Fair Housing Act, Southwick said. So it is ripe, and it is timely.
Mexican pastor shot and killed after Sunday church service

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Correction appended

A pastor in southwest Mexico was shot and killed after a church service on Sunday amid ongoing targeting of faith leaders by criminal gangs.

According to international watchdog group Christian Solidarity Worldwide, Pastor Alfrery Lictor Cruz Canseco was sitting in his car outside Fraternidad Cristiana church in the town of Tlalixtac de Cabrera in Oaxaca state when he was shot at point-blank range.

Cruz Canseco died while he was being transported to a local hospital.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and congregation of Pastor Cruz Canseco, CSW Chief Executive Merwyn Thomas said in a statement.

A translated statement posted on the Fraternidad Christiana Facebook page reads: We regret the departure of Alfrery Lictor Cruz Canseco, friend and brother in Christ very loved by our congregation.

Although the motive remains uncertain, CSW, which advocates for Christians in over 20 countries worldwide, notes that the killing comes on the heels of a recent series of attacks that have targeted religious leaders in the region.

Among the recent attacks against faith leaders was the kidnapping of Pastor Aaron Mendez Ruiz, who ran a shelter for Cuban immigrants in Nuevo Laredo and was abducted on Aug. 3.

We also remain concerned for the well-being of Pastor Mendez Ruiz and urge the Mexican government to spare no effort in ensuring his safe return, investigating all of these crimes and prosecuting those responsible, Thomas stated.

CSW warns that the expansion of criminal groups in Mexico as well as a climate of impunity when it comes to crimes they commit has led to an increase in violence against Protestant and Catholic leaders because they are viewed as a threat to criminal groups.

According to CSW, 10 religious leaders were killed in Mexico in 2018.

As questions have been raised as to why church leaders in a predominantly-Catholic country are increasingly being abducted, harmed or killed, USA Today reported last April that at least 23 religious leaders had been killed in Mexico since 2012.

Earlier this week, the Catholic Multimedia Center reported that at least 26 Catholic priests have been killed since 2012.

We urge the international community to engage with the Mexican government on these matters and to recognize the role that many religious leaders play, not only as leaders of their churches, but also as voices for peace, justice and integrity, and as human rights defenders, Thomas concluded in his statement.

Mexico ranks as the 39th-worst country in the world when it comes to Christian persecution as organized crime in the country continues to go unconfronted, according to Open Doors USAs 2019 World Watch List.

According to Open Doors, Christians, their leaders and church buildings in Mexico are increasingly becoming victims of attacks, threats, extortion and other forms of coercion throughout the entire country.

Due to the governments inability to confront violence, some Christians feel forced to implement their own security strategies against acts of Christian persecution, including engaging leaders of criminal groups themselves, an Open Doors USA factsheet reads.

Organized crime primarily targets priests and pastors, while indigenous power holders pressure Christians through fines, denying basic community service and imprisonment. The state attorney general in Guerrero has falsely implied that priests were engaged in criminal activity, further inflaming religious tensions.

In its 2017 annual report, the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom voiced concern about the targeting of Catholic priests and other religious leaders by cartels such as Los Zetas and Knights Templar. The report noted that over the span of a week in September 2016, three priests were found dead.

Religious leaders are targeted because they speak out against the gangs and/or because they refuse to include gang spiritual mythology in their sermons, the USCIRF report reads.

An earlier version of this article published on Aug. 20 reported that Pastor Alfrery Lictor Cruz Canseco was in the pulpit of his church when he was shot. But according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide, reports have since emerged that Pastor Cruz Canseco was in his car following a church service when he was shot.
South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem bans at-home DIY telemedicine abortions

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South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem signed an executive order on Tuesday banning telemedicine abortions and regulating chemical abortions in the state.

Known as Executive Order 2021-12, Noem signed the order on Tuesday, which directs the state Department of Health to create rules against telemedicine abortions.

Noem said in a press release that she believed the Biden administration was continuing to overstep its authority and suppress legislatures that are standing up for the unborn to pass strong pro-life laws.

They are working right now to make it easier to end the life of an unborn child via telemedicine abortion. That is not going to happen in South Dakota, the governor said.

I will continue working with the legislature and my Unborn Child Advocate to ensure that South Dakota remains a strong pro-life state.

EO 2021-12 states, among other things, that abortion-inducing drugs can only be prescribed or dispensed by a licensed physician following an in-person examination, blocks abortion-inducing drugs from being provided via other means like telemedicine or mail service, and bans abortion-inducing drugs from being provided in schools.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the national pro-life group the Susan B. Anthony List, said in a statement on Tuesday that she believed the order was a bold action that will save lives.

The Biden administration would turn every post office and pharmacy into an abortion center if they had their way, leaving women alone and at risk of severe heavy bleeding, physical, emotional, and psychological stress, and more, Dannenfelser said.

States must take action. Governor Noem is setting a courageous model today that we hope more state leaders across the nation will soon follow.

Kristin Hayward of Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota said she believed the executive order wrongfully attacked abortion rights.

"Planned Parenthood will always stand up for patients and communities, said Hayward, as reported by USA Today. We know most South Dakotans support the right to safe, legal abortion, but Noem is following a vocal minority that is attacking abortion, contraception, and comprehensive sexual education in this country.

In a medical abortion, women receive two drugs: mifepristone (also called Mifeprex or RU-486), which works by blocking the effects of the natural pregnancy hormone progesterone, and misoprostol, which is used to induce a miscarriage.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns, pro-choice activists were pushing to make it legal for abortion clinics to dispense the drugs without an in-person doctor's appointment.

In January, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed a bill into law mandating that abortion-inducing drugs be taken in the presence of a physician, effectively banning telemedicine abortions.
Taliban blocking charter flights from leaving Afghanistan; Blinken says US limited without personnel Veteran accuses Biden admin. of thwarting evacuation efforts

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday that the Taliban is preventing chartered flights from leaving Afghanistan because some onboard do not have the required documentation.

As of now, the Taliban are not permitting the charter flights to depart, Blinken said at a news conference at Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany. They claim that some of the passengers do not have the required documentation.

While there are limits to what we can do without personnel on the ground, without an airport with normal security procedures in place, we are working to do everything within our power to support those flights and to get them off the ground, he added. Thats what we've done and that's what we will continue to do.

Blinken, 59, said that the U.S. is working with nongovernmental organizations, advocates and lawmakers to help coordinate their efforts and offer guidance where we can.

We have made clear to all parties, we have made clear to the Taliban that these charters need to be able to depart, he said. We continue every day, virtually every hour to work on that.

Hundreds of Americans, Special Immigrant Visa applicants and green card holders are still in Afghanistan after the pullout of U.S. troops last month. There was pressure on the Biden administration to maintain a military presence in Afghanistan until Americans who wanted to leave had been evacuated. But after the military pullout, the administration assured that there would be a diplomatic mission to ensure that additional U.S. citizens and eligible Afghans could depart from the country.

John Bass, the former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan, was tasked with spearheading the State Departments effort to help American citizens, citizens of allied nations, special immigrant visa applicants and Afghans at high risk leave the country.

In an earlier press conference, Blinken shared assurance he received for a senior Taliban official who vowed that any Afghans may leave the country, including those who worked for Americans, if they want and for whatever reason there may be.

In a joint statement last month, about half of the worlds countries acknowledged they had received assurances from the Taliban that all foreign nationals and any Afghan citizen with travel authorization from our countries will be allowed to proceed in a safe and orderly manner to points of departure and travel outside the country.

We will continue issuing travel documentation to designated Afghans, and we have the clear expectation of and commitment from the Taliban that they can travel to our respective countries, the joint statement reads. We note the public statements of the Taliban confirming this understanding.

Earlier this week, it was reported that over 1,000 people, including Americans, have waited for clearance for their charter flights to depart from an airport in Mazar-i-Sharif. An organizer blamed the State Department, telling Reuters that the agency had failed to inform the Taliban of the flights approval.

On Tuesday, Blinken denied reports that the Taliban was blocking Americans from leaving Afghanistan. Blinken said that the challenges around these flights were that some people lacked travel documents, which delayed departure for the whole group.

And its my understanding is that the Taliban has not denied exit to anyone holding a valid document, but they have said those without valid documents, at this point, cant leave, Blinken said.

Because all of these people are grouped together, thats meant that flights have not been allowed to go.

On Wednesday, Blinken said that many of these flights were organized by NGOs and individuals with a deeply felt desire to help people.

[W]ere grateful to be working with so many passionate advocates, but theres also a risk of people looking to extort money from desperate and vulnerable people, which of course we want to prevent, he said.

One veteran alleges that the Biden administration has thwarted his efforts to evacuate Americans from Afghanistan and is falsely taking credit for his teams successful evacuation of a family of American citizens.

Cory Mills, a Republican congressional candidate and Army combat veteran, elaborated on his collaboration with Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, and Rep. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., and others to evacuate a U.S. citizen and her three children from Afghanistan during an appearance on Fox & Friends Tuesday.

Originally, our plan was to go ahead and do an air evac. That was absolutely thwarted by the  CENTCOM Command and the State Department, Mills said.

Army Combat Veteran @CoryMillsFL just completed the first ground evacuation from Afghanistan and is pushing back after the State Department is taking credit for the rescues. pic.twitter.com/6aTYlh5DKC  Brian Kilmeade (@kilmeade) September 7, 2021

Appearing on CNNs Cuomo Prime Time Tuesday, Mills explained that they were manifested on another aircraft ... [that] had been approved by the Taliban, had been approved by the DOD [and] had been approved by the State Department.

And right before the [last] hour when it was ready to fly, the State Department went ahead and canceled that flight or disapproved  that flight because they wanted to vet the manifest, which I can understand and appreciate, Mills added.

The State Department is saying they helped facilitate the departure of four American citizens from Afghanistan.



Cory Mills, an Army combat veteran, says they actually thwarted efforts of veterans on the ground who were trying rescue an American woman and her kids. pic.twitter.com/GJOcGULet7  Cuomo Prime Time (@CuomoPrimeTime) September 8, 2021

Due to Mills inability to fly the family out of Afghanistan, they were evacuated into a neighboring country via an overland route.

Jackson reported on Twitter Monday that After 2 weeks & multiple life threatening attempts, I am overjoyed to share that 4 U.S. citizens from #TX13 were part of the first successful ground evacuation since the U.S. left Kabul.

After 2 weeks & multiple life threatening attempts, I am overjoyed to share that 4 U.S. citizens from #TX13 were part of the first successful ground evacuation since the U.S. left Kabul. Thank you to Cory Mills & the other patriots on his team for saving these BRAVE Americans! pic.twitter.com/1Tv9KRUgcE  Ronny Jackson (@RepRonnyJackson) September 6, 2021

The family of four in question resides in Texas 13th Congressional District, which Jackson represents. Throughout the previous two weeks, Jackson detailed some of the dangers the family experienced trying to flee the country.

They have been just outside the airport numerous times, but the State Department WILL NOT help them, he lamented in an Aug. 28 tweet. They have been beaten by the Taliban at checkpoints and told to leave and come back with large sums of money.

In statements to national news outlets, the U.S. State Department has claimed that it helped secure the familys evacuation.

In an email to Fox News, a State Department spokesperson declared that The Department assisted four Americans depart Afghanistan via an overland route on Monday.

We provided guidance to them, worked to facilitate their safe passage, and Embassy officials greeted the Americans once they had crossed the border, the spokesperson stated.

Those directly involved with the familys evacuation have disputed this narrative.

Mills told Cuomo that he did not receive support from the State Department until they had already evacuated the family into the neighboring country.

Mullin described a CNN tweet asserting that the US helped facilitate the departure of four American citizens from Afghanistan via an overland route, a state official says as a flat out lie.

According to Mullin, The Biden Administration abandoned them.

Lets be clear, it was our team of patriots who worked around the clock for two weeks to get them out, despite the many roadblocks from the State Department, Mullin added.

Dissatisfied with the administrations efforts to evacuate Americans and vulnerable Afghans from the country, many private groups, including Glenn Becks Nazarene Fund, have opted to conduct evacuations themselves.

In an appearance on Fox News last month, Beck, a conservative talk radio host, alleged that The State Department has blocked us every step of the way.

The Biden administration continues to face criticism about its handling of the Afghanistan pullout more than a week after the last U.S. troops left Afghanistan.

While the Biden administration estimated that between 100 and 200 Americans who would like to leave Afghanistan remain in the country, critics of the administration, including Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., have placed that number much higher.

Issa told the Associated Press that he believes the actual number of U.S. citizens remaining in Afghanistan is closer to 500. He contended that when including the family members of U.S. citizens, that number rises to 1,000.

The fallout of the Afghanistan pullout, including bombings in and around the Kabul Airport that left 13 U.S. military service members dead, has taken a toll on the presidents approval ratings.

The RealClear Politics polling average, updated Wednesday, measured President Joe Bidens disapproval rating at a record high of 49.5%. A poll conducted last week by Rasmussen Reports found that 52% of Americans think the president should resign over his administration's handling of the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan.
Atty. Gen. Merrick Garland vows to protect constitutional rights' of women seeking abortions in Texas

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Less than a week after Texas heartbeat bill became law, banning most abortions in the state after six weeks gestation, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said Monday that the federal government was exploring all options to challenge it and protect the constitutional rights of women and other persons.

While the Justice Department urgently explores all options to challenge Texas SB8 in order to protect the constitutional rights of women and other persons, including access to an abortion, we will continue to protect those seeking to obtain or provide reproductive health services pursuant to our criminal and civil enforcement of the FACE Act, 18 U.S.C.  248, Garland said in a statement released by the Justice Department.

The FACE Act prohibits the use or threat of force and physical obstruction that injures, intimidates, or interferes with a person seeking to obtain or provide reproductive health services. It also prohibits intentional property damage of a facility providing reproductive health services, Garland continued, noting that the Justice Department had consistently enforced the FACE Act since it became law in 1994 and would continue to do so now.

The department will provide support from federal law enforcement when an abortion clinic or reproductive health center is under attack. We have reached out to U.S. Attorneys Offices and FBI field offices in Texas and across the country to discuss our enforcement authorities. We will not tolerate violence against those seeking to obtain or provide reproductive health services, physical obstruction or property damage in violation of the FACE Act, Garland ended.

In addition to banning most abortions after six weeks, the new law also allows individuals to take civil action against anyone who performs and induces an abortion or knowingly engages in conduct that aids or abets the performance or inducement of an abortion, including paying for or reimbursing the costs of abortion through insurance or otherwise.

Last Friday, District Judge Maya Guerra Gamble in Austin, Texas, temporarily shielded Planned Parenthood abortion clinics in the state from being sued under the new law in response to a request from the abortion giant, The Associated Press reported.

Guerras order specifically shields Planned Parenthoods clinics from whistleblower lawsuits by the nonprofit group Texas Right to Life, the states largest anti-abortion group.

When asked about his thoughts about the U.S. Supreme Courts decision not to block SB 8, former President Donald Trump, who appointed three pro-life judges to the bench during his single term, told Sharyl Attkisson of "Full Measure" on Saturday that he was still assessing the decision.

"I know that the ruling was very complex and also probably temporary. I think other things will happen and that will be the big deal and the big picture. So we'll see what would happen. But we're studying the ruling and we're studying also what they've done in Texas. But we have great confidence in the governor and the attorney general and the lieutenant governor," Trump said.
Parents sue California to stop chants to Aztec gods in ethnic studies curriculum

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Parents of students in the California public school system have filed a lawsuit against the state's Department of Education in an attempt to remove a chant to Aztec gods that's part of a new ethnic studies curriculum.

The lawsuit was filed Friday by the conservative legal firm Thomas More Society on behalf of the Californians for Equal Rights Foundation, individual taxpayers and parents of current and former students after their Aug. 26 letter to the State Superintendent of Public Instruction demanding withdraw of the Aztec prayer from the curriculum went unanswered.

The lawsuit says the Ethnic Studies Model Curriculum has been approved for the Golden States public schools, which serve approximately 6 million students in some 10,000 schools. Although the program is reportedly voluntary, many schools districts have decided to use the curriculum in their classrooms.

The curriculum includes a section of Affirmation, Chants, and Energizers, including the In Lak Ech Affirmation, which invokes five Aztec deities, the lawsuit adds.

Although labeled as an affirmation, it addresses the deities both by name and by their traditional titles, recognizes them as sources of power and knowledge, invokes their assistance, and gives thanks to them. In short, it's a prayer, the legal firm said in a statement shared with The Christian Post.

Our clients have both a religious and civic objection to the Aztec prayer, and they do not want their children chanting it, being asked or pressured to do so, or risking ostracism if they refuse, said Paul Jonna, partner at LiMandri & Jonna LLP and Thomas More Society Special Counsel.

The Aztecs regularly performed gruesome and horrific acts for the sole purpose of pacifying and appeasing the very beings that the prayers from the curriculum invoke, Jonna said. The human sacrifice, cutting out of human hearts, flaying of victims and wearing their skin, are a matter of historical record, along with sacrifices of war prisoners, and other repulsive acts and ceremonies the Aztecs conducted to honor their deities. Any form of prayer and glorification of these bloodthirsty beings in whose name horrible atrocities were performed is repulsive to any reasonably informed observer.

The curriculum unequivocally promotes Aztec gods or deities through repetitive chanting and affirmation of their symbolic principles which constitutes an unlawful government preference toward a particular religious practice, said Frank Xu, president of Californians for Equal Rights Foundation.

This public endorsement of the Aztec religion fundamentally erodes equal education rights and irresponsibly glorifies anthropomorphic, male deities whose religious rituals involved gruesome human sacrifice and human dismemberment, Xu added.

Thomas More Society said the curriculum also includes the Ashe Prayer from the Yoruba religion  an ancient philosophical concept that is the root of many pagan religions, including santeria and Haitian vodou or voodoo.

The co-chair of the curriculum, R. Tolteka Cuauhtin, developed much of the material cited throughout the lessons, in which Christians, specifically those of European ancestry, are viewed as the source of evil to be resisted and overthrown.

White Christians are guilty of theocide against indigenous tribes, the killing of their deities and replacing them with the Christian faith, Cuauhtin argues in a chart.

The ultimate goal, according to Cuauhtin, is to engineer a countergenocide against whites, investigative journalist Christopher Rufo wrote about the issue in City-Journal in March.

Dr. Richard Land, the executive editor for The Christian Post, previously noted in his weekly column: This is all so comprehensively evil and destructive it is hard to know where to begin criticism of this dangerous, divisive, retrograde cultural vandalism. The idea that a tax-supported public school system would, or could, be used to unleash this vicious cultural and spiritual poison into our young peoples consciousness is both extremely offensive and quite possibly illegal.
Virginia teacher fired over refusal to use trans pronouns appeals case to state Supreme Court

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A Christian teacher in Virginia, who was fired for refusing to refer to a trans-identified student by using male pronouns even though the student is female, has appealed his case to the state Supreme Court.

Peter Vlaming, who taught French at West Point High School for seven years before being fired, appealed his case to the Virginia Supreme Court after the Circuit Court for the County of King William dismissed the case, conservative legal firm Alliance Defending Freedom, which is representing the Christian teacher, said in a statement.

Vlaming was placed on administrative leave in 2018 after he said he couldnt in good conscience comply with the superintendents order to refer to a female student as a male.

However, the teacher consistently used the students preferred name instead of the students given name, and although he attempted to avoid the use of any pronouns in an effort to accommodate the student, he was nonetheless directed to cease avoiding the use of male pronouns to refer to the student, even when the student wasnt present, ADF said.

Peter has every right to fight this unlawful decision by the school board, and we will be defending him every step of the way, ADF Senior Counsel Tyson Langhofer, director of the ADF Center for Academic Freedom, said.

Peter went above and beyond to treat this student with respect, including using the students preferred masculine name and avoiding pronoun usage in the students presence. This was never about anything Peter said  or didnt say  it is about a school demanding total conformity in utter disregard of Peters efforts and his freedoms under Virginia law, Langhofer added.

The legal firm said their client is suing the school board for violating his rights under the Virginia Constitution and commonwealth law.

In December 2018, Superintendent Laura Abel said in a statement that Vlaming was engaging in discrimination by not using the pronouns. That discrimination then leads to creating a hostile learning environment. And the student had expressed that. The parent had expressed that, stated Abel, as reported by the Richmond Times-Dispatch at the time.

I won't use male pronouns with a female student that now identifies as a male though I did agree to use the new masculine name but avoid female pronouns, Vlaming said in response to the suspension at the time. Administration is requiring that I use masculine pronouns in any and every context at school. I was informed that any further instances of using female pronouns would be grounds for termination.

In a previous interview with CBN News, the teacher said: Theres bound to be opposition to living for God. I was brought to a point where I had to make a decision that cost something. And when that happens it's an opportunity to grow in your faith. It's an opportunity to show the Lord, yes, I am for you. Yes, I trust you.

An online petition calling for him not to be fired was also started by his supporters and nearly 2,900 people signed it.

A GoFundMe campaign to support Vlaming and his family financially has raised $59,019.

In June, another teacher in Virginia, Byron Tanner Cross from Leesburg Elementary School, filed a lawsuit against the Loudon County School Board after its leadership put him on leave for rejecting policies that would implement transgender ideology in local schools.

On Aug. 31, the state Supreme Court rejected a request by the Loudoun County School Board to allow Cross' suspension and granted an appeal to review the merits of a lower court decision in favor of Cross and agreed to keep an injunction reinstating the teacher in place.
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One week before her tragic death, Sergeant Nicole Gee tenderly embraced an innocent infant. We dont know this childs name or story, but we do know why Sergeant Gee dared to support  I love my job. These are the words she wrote one week prior to a suicide bomber

selfishly taking her life. But what this cowardly act can never eradicate is the thing that propelled Sergeant Nicole Gee to serve  love. What then is this virtue that summoned her to support and defend the Constitution from all enemies, foreign, and domestic?

The Greeks translate this term in the following ways: Eros, Philia, and Agape. Eros relates to romance or a form of expression between a wife and husband. Philia describes a bond between friends. This form of affection is often experienced amongst colleagues and our networks. Agape, and its verb form agapao, is a self-sacrificing love that results in the ultimate sacrifice. Stated differently, agape says greater love is this, that a person lays down their life for a friend. Dr. Bruce Winston describes agapao as love in a social or moral sense, embracing the judgment and the deliberate assent of the will as a matter of principle, duty, and propriety. Plainly put, agapao is doing the right thing, at the right time, and with the right motives.



The Right Thing

Regarding the 20,000 Afghan evacuees in the United States and 40,000 in other parts of the globe, what is the right thing? Before a plausible response is offered, consider first their story. They built homes, but they can never return to live. They dream of a better life for their children, but a nightmare has challenged their hopes. They were not Americans yet for two decades they supported United States military operations. Why? Because they believed it was a moral imperative. This strongly felt principle compelled the displaced to act on our behalf even in the face of grave danger.

What about us? How should the globe respond to this moment? The parable of the Good Samaritan provides us with an international framework. A certain man, as the story goes, was attacked by robbers, and left half dead in the middle of a road. Two esteemed people walked down that same street at different times and decided to support the status quo and do nothing. As fate would have it, a Samaritan showed up and refused to allow another human being to suffer.

This man of modest means had: The compassion to connect. Seemingly when this Samaritan saw a stranger in distress, it reminded him of his previous predicaments. No doubt, he recalled the moments in life when he was in need and others simply walked by. This was his moment to pay forward the thing he wished he received. How does one acquire this mindset? Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminds us that, You dont have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.



2. The courage to care. There are various forms of valor. But the one that often requires the most mettle is the courage to be concerned. Lets face it, exercising empathy is a risk. One can jeopardize social standing, personal comforts, and yes even safety when one breaks from conventional norms to do what is right. But there is also a consequence of shrinking back from the moment. Emotions of regret, moral injury, and perpetual fear will keep us from

experiencing life in its fullest capacity.



3. The commitment to create opportunities. It wasnt enough for this Samaritan to be compassionate and display courage. This neighbor made a commitment to get the wounded man back on his feet. He used his own means to provide for his health, living arrangements, and he set him up for future success.



In a similar fashion, the international community has a moral responsibility to demonstrate compassion, courage, and commitment to the 60,000 Afghan evacuees. Weve been conditioned, unfortunately, to expect someone else to solve matters of the heart. When in actuality it is the business of humanity to exercise the golden rule: Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you. But how and what does that look like?



Communities of faith should lead the charge by providing for the basic needs of our new neighbors. Not-for-profit organizations should stand up educational courses to help Afghans integrate into society. Local businesses should leverage their talents and provide those in need with the opportunities to positively contribute to society. The choice is ours. Will we walk by this moment or be a Good Samaritan?



The Right Time

The school of medicine has a term known as the golden hour. This is the period of time that a medical team has to care for the urgent needs of a patient in critical condition. How they respond in this timespan is the difference between life and death. For the evacuees, this is a humanitarian golden hour and now is the time to act! Dr. King would say, We are now faced with the fact that tomorrow is today. We are confronted with the fierce urgency of now. In this unfolding conundrum of life and history, there is such a thing as being too late. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action. To this end, let us move away from the distractions of toxic ideology, negative grandstanding, and operate with unity of effort. When this is done with a fierce urgency of now, the critical needs of the displaced can be addressed in a timely manner.



The Right Motive

Perhaps the hardest thing to detect are the motives of the heart. If ones intentions are laced with selfishness; the outcome becomes clouded with confusion and discord. In contrast, when our motives are genuine the uplifting of the other becomes the order of the day. How

then can we assess our motives? We can start by examining our words. For it has been said that, The power of our words are crafted by the motives of our heart. If this is true, we should examine what we say about the other when we are under pressure or we feel safe enough to speak freely. Let us ask ourselves during these times, what are we really saying about the evacuees? Do such words align with our core values and how does this motivation contribute to positive change?



Conclusion

At the end of the day, some 60,000 Afghan evacuees are in need. This number may seem overwhelming at first glance and may cause the average person to pause. If this is true, let us remember Sgt. Nicole Gees sacrifice. She made the choice to become a United States Marine. From this platform she had the honor of serving during Operation Allies Refuge. It was within this mission that this Marine embraced a child whom she never met and served unconditionally. Why? Because of Agapao. May the memory of Sergeant Nicole Gee, and her fellow service members, never be forgotten. And, may the global community embrace the moral imperative to serve as a Good Samaritan.
Miss Flavia went first, in March.

Some of her staff were ready to go next. One teacher, 22-year-old Mishelle Acosta, said she didnt care that her parents opposed the coronavirus vaccine, and got jabbed.

But not every employee at Houstons Museum District Child Care Center was as eager. Some of the other 15 women working there had questions about the vaccines potential side effects, its effectiveness, whether it was adequately tested during its rushed production and if it caused pregnancy complications.

Weeks passed, the vaccine became more widely available and more employees got inoculated.

Director Flavia Souza at the Museum District Child Care Center in Houston on Sept. 1, 2021. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune

They started seeing that we were getting vaccinated and we didnt turn into zombies, said Flavia Souza, director of the child care center, which cares for roughly 70 children ages 2 through 5.

But some were not ready. Issa Arevalo, a 24-year-old teacher, said she hesitated because I just felt like there wasnt enough research [on the vaccines].

The centers owners discussed requiring employees to be vaccinated. Some large businesses in other states were making the same calculation, weighing the health benefits of vaccination for staff and customers against individual freedoms and the difficulty of finding new employees during an ongoing labor shortage.

By August, national companies including Disney, Facebook, Google and Tyson Foods announced that their employees must show proof of vaccination or potentially submit to regular testing. That same month, United Airlines said its U.S. employees must be vaccinated by October, while Delta Airlines said unvaccinated employees have to pay $200 per month to remain on the companys health plan.

But in Texas, where the fast-spreading delta variant has flooded hospitals with COVID-19 patients, large companies, including American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, are strongly encouraging employees to get the vaccine, but not requiring it.

One large Texas hospital system  Houston Methodist  announced a vaccine mandate for its massive workforce this spring. After strong resistance by some employees  including a lawsuit that was later dismissed  153 employees who refused to be vaccinated by the June deadline resigned or were fired.

But mandates have been the exception for businesses in Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott banned government entities from requiring employees to be vaccinated and signed a bill that will punish businesses that require customers to show proof of vaccination. Violators are cut off from getting state contracts and risk losing their state licenses or permits. When two Austin restaurants last month required customers to show proof of vaccination, the state threatened to revoke their liquor licenses.

Abbott also has banned local governments from enacting measures intended to slow the spread of the virus like government vaccine mandates. Cities, counties and school districts in the states major urban areas have responded with lawsuits challenging Abbotts order and many have defied it.

Louvaine Reid comforts a baby at the Museum District Child Care Center. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune

It kind of comes from our governor and politicians, Souza said. Theyre the ones setting the rules and setting the examples. I feel like a lot of people would be more strict on the vaccine if they had more support from [political leaders].

Dr. Vivian Ho, health economist at Rice University, said businesses are generally wary of entering a political conflict, and whether to require vaccination has become a heated argument.

Government holds the purse strings, Ho said. Businesses are affected by all sorts of decisions by government, and Abbott and the state government control their taxes and all sorts of regulations  they can dramatically harm [businesses].

By May, at least 13 of the 16 staffers at the child care center were vaccinated. That was an encouraging development  women of color make up most of the center's workforce, and according to state health data, about 42% of Hispanic women and 34% of Black women are fully vaccinated, compared to 48% of all Texans. While Souza and the centers owners decided not to require vaccination at that point, Souza made it her mission to convince them to do it voluntarily.

The first step was to educate them, she said.

Parents with children at the child care center said that theyve seen other centers close during the pandemic, but Museum District Child Care has stayed open  its running at capacity. Only once did the center close during the pandemic  right after Februarys winter freeze, when Souza and a few others at the center contracted the virus and they closed the facility for a week.

Miss Flavia and the team were really good about communicating the protocols they had in place, very clean and clear, said Sehban Zaidi, who has a 2-year-old at the child care center.

Souza implemented temperature checks and mask mandates for employees and sent regular safety protocol updates to parents, who were no longer allowed inside the building  they must drop off and pick up their children at the front door.

But Souza made an exception for one parent, giving him a special invitation to the facility this spring.

Ryan Bouillet adjusts his 3-year-old son Remy's mask before entering Museum District Child Care Center in Houston. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune

A familiar expert

Some days Souza chatted about the pandemic with Doug Litwin as he picked up his 2-year-old son Alex. Litwin works in data intelligence in health care and has a Ph.D. in biochemistry and molecular biology.

I have read more about the history and science behind vaccines than the average person, Litwin said.

Souza thought her staff could benefit from listening to Litwin and asking him questions. So she invited Litwin to come to the facility on a Saturday when no children were there, only staff.

He came and talked for like two hours, she said. Educating them, how the virus works, how the vaccine works, how the vaccine helps. Because it was very new. But he brought flyers for them, answered their questions and their concerns.

With vaccine misinformation exploding through social media, Litwin offered a familiar face for employees and spoke clearly and with authority, they said. He explained why the vaccine is safe and why he trusted it.

People dont know what to believe any more, Litwin said. I have more years of scientific training than anyone should ever have and its hard for me to figure out whats going on online sometimes. I understand the fear.

Arevalo, still unvaccinated at that point, had questions about whether the vaccine would lead to issues down the road with pregnancy or infertility.

Litwin said he has seen no evidence that getting inoculated now would negatively impact pregnancy or childbirth later on. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends COVID-19 vaccination for all people who are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to get pregnant now, or might become pregnant in the future.

I would give it to my sons right away if it was approved for kids, Litwin said.

Final push

Acosta and Arevalo have been friends for years and both got jobs at the child care center late last year. As the vaccines rolled out in December, they eventually found an apartment and became roommates.

Acosta quickly got the vaccine after Texas officials announced in the first week of March that teachers and child care workers were eligible. Arevalo said she wasnt in a rush. She never opposed it, she said. She was just skeptical. Her friend understood her hesitation.

We did have a lot of teachers that were concerned because, you know, they werent sure what it was that they were going to be putting in their bodies, Acosta said.

After listening to Litwin speak to the staff, Arevalo started thinking more about whether she should get vaccinated. Then she received news that helped push her to get the shot.

Issa Arevalo and Mishelle Acosta, who both work at the center, initally had different thoughts about whether to immediately get vaccinated for COVID-19. Credit: Annie Mulligan for The Texas Tribune

After her family moved to a different area of Houston in 2011, Arevalo grew close with their new neighbor  the mother of one of her classmates. Arevalo said she would often go over to the womans house for dinner, and she became like my second mom ... We got very, very close.

Last winter, Arevalo learned that the neighbor had been hospitalized with COVID-19. She spent weeks in the hospital.

She ended up passing away in April, Arevalo said, wiping tears from her eyes. After that, I got the vaccine right away.

By May, only a few employees remained unvaccinated. The owners and Souza told the staff that vaccinated employees would no longer be required to wear a mask at work.

We were all ready to do away with the masks, said teacher Ann Scroggins.

I dont remember exactly how many were left, Souza said. But there were the last few who went to get the vaccine once we dropped the mask mandate if youre vaccinated.

Educating them in a comfortable environment was key, she said. So was the example she and others set by getting vaccinated first, showing that safety was critical especially in a job working with young children who are especially vulnerable to the new delta variant.

Now, as Souza looks to hire a couple more employees, COVID-19 vaccination is required for the job. With the recent surge in cases, employees are all required to wear masks again at work.

So far during the latest surge, the center hasnt had a single positive case.

Darla Cameron contributed to this report.

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This article originally appeared in The Texas Tribune at https://www.texastribune.org/2021/09/09/coronavirus-texas-vaccine-houston-day-care/.

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As the coronavirus continues to evolve and mutate, new strains pop up and come into a community, like the highly contagious delta variant.

So far, the two new variants dominating headlines and the news are the mu and delta-plus variants. In Houston, health officials reported more than 40 people have already been infected with the mu variant, according to KHOU. Meanwhile in Nueces County, officials received notice of its first case of the delta-plus variant last week, according to the Caller-Times.

First off, what are these variants?

Dr. Jason Bowling, infectious diseases specialist with UT Health San Antonio and University Health, breaks down what others should expect about these new variants.

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The delta-plus variant contains a new mutation in the spike protein the virus uses to enter human cells, Bowling says. It is closely linked to the delta variant, but has been found in relatively low numbers nationwide.

However, the mu variant, which was first identified in Colombia, is different. The World Health Organization added the strain as a "variant of interest" on August 30. Data shows that it can evade existing antibodies, including those from vaccines, meaning the vaccines might not be as effective in fighting against the mu variant.

Should we be concerned in San Antonio about these new variants?

In Bexar County, 99 percent of the cases within the city trace back to the delta variant.

Dr. Rita Espinoza, chief of epidemiology with the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, tells MySA the two strains have not been identified in Bexar County as of Wednesday, September 8. However, Espinoza says it does not mean they are not here.

The mu variant became a "variant of interest" because it shows worrisome genetic changes that can affect the severity of the resulting sickness and how easily the virus is transmitted from person to person, Bowling says. It has not, however, been able to displace the delta variant.

Mu is present in the state, but it accounts for a tiny fraction of all cases sequenced by scientists. So far, the mu variant has been detected in dozens of countries, according to the WHO, but the largest number of cases remain clustered in Colombia, where it accounts for 39 percent of all cases.

"I think people should be aware that variants can occur, but they shouldn't worry too much because health interventions are effective," Bowling says. "People should continue to be mindful of those things. Wear your masks. I know everyone is tired of hearing it but please do it."

Yes, still get the vaccine.

While the mu variant raises concerns about the vaccine efficacy, Bowling says vaccinated individuals won't suddenly lose all protection. He says vaccines remain to show the best protection against all variants and will continue to do so as it's likely more strains will come around.

"The problem that we face is that the sheer volume of people getting infected is so high that we are continuing to see these variants come up," Bowling says. "Getting vaccinated is really the most important tool that's going to get us out of it."
Grab your stein and your best lederhosen. It's time to celebrate Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest is an annual celebration in Munich, Germany running from mid-to-late September until the first weekend in October. But Texas has deep German roots, too, and there are several ways to celebrate a love for beer, sausage, pretzels and polka music without hopping on an international flight.

Here's where you can celebrate Oktoberfest in Houston and some of Texas' most Germanic towns.

Houston

Karbachtoberfest

One of Houston's biggest breweries is celebrating Oktoberfest (and the return of its Oktoberfest beer, Karbachtoberfest) with three weekends of live music, stein hoisting and wiener dog races at Karbach's Biergarten.

Sept. 24-26, Oct. 1-3, Oct. 8-10; Free

Oktoberfest Houston

Grab the lederhosen and enjoy all the polka music and beer you can handle at Buffalo Bayou Park during Oktoberfest Houston. Fest-goers can participate in the 9th Annual Oktoberfest Olympiad games, including a stein race, barrel roll, stein hoisting and a brat toss.

Oct. 22-23; $25 in advance, $35 at entry

Fredericksburg

40th Oktoberfest

If you can't go to Munich, you may as well go to the town founded by German immigrants, and as Texas Monthly notes, is home of the Texas German dialect. Fredericksburg is celebrating its 40th Oktoberfest with five stages of live music, stein hoists and more than 60 choices for food and drinks. While you're there, pop over to Fredericksburg's Altstadt Brewery, a German-style brewery that makes an exceptional Oktoberfest beer.

Oct. 1-3, $10+

New Braunfels

Wurstfest

Another town known for its German heritage, New Braunfels hosts a huge celebration of beer and sausages every year around Oktoberfest. Wurstfest is back for its 60th anniversary with food, music, dancing and carnival rides over 10 jam-packed days of fun.

Nov. 5-14, $0-$20 per day

Boerne

Boerne Bierfest

Sample beers from more than 25 Hill Country breweries, shop local artists and join in on the stein hoist and keg throwing competitions in another Texas town with German roots at the annual Boerne Bierfest. Extra sampling tickets will be available for purchase if 10 samples isn't enough to quench your thirst.

Sept. 25, $30-$35
Late night talk show host Seth Meyers continues to blast Texas for its recent laws.

In Wednesday's airing, Meyers called out the Supreme Court for not blocking the state's new abortion law, which the host said was "heinous" and "truly diabolical" during his "A Closer Look" segment.

The new heartbeat law bans abortions after six weeks of pregnancy  a period before many women know they are pregnant. The law does not make exceptions for rape or incest. The Supreme Court refused to block the law, making the decision just before midnight on September 1.

Meyers pointed out how the "odious" and "contentious" ruling was made by a Supreme Court that has three justices appointed by former President Donald Trump, someone the host called "a deeply unpopular one-term president who lost the popular vote by three million."

"They gutted a women's right to choose in Texas, and who knows where else next, despite never commanding majority support from the American people," Meyers said. "And they don't give a sh*t because they are there for life. If that's how our government is going to work, then why not just have a f**cking monarchy."

Meyers said the ruling is a clear indication that "our democracy is on fire." He noted the Supreme Court wouldn't have the same outcome if a blue state challenged the second amendment. Meyers joked how "insane" it would be if New York citizens sued every person who bought or intended to buy a gun.

At a press conference on Tuesday, September 6, Gov. Greg Abbott defended the law, saying victims of incest and rape have six weeks to receive an abortion, and the state would "work tirelessly" to "eliminate all rapists."

Meyers slammed Abbott's response, saying he doesn't know how basic biology works. He played a clip of New York congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez explaining a female's menstrual cycle.

"I find Governor Abbot's comments disgusting," she said during an interview with CNN's Anderson Cooper. "...I do know that he is not familiar with a female or menstruating person's body because if he [was], he would know you don't have six weeks."

You can watch the full segment below:
President Biden announced a swath of new vaccine mandates for millions of Americans on Thursday. In a speech from the White House, the president said that vaccinations will be mandatory for federal employees and contractors, businesses with more than 100 workers and healthcare practitioners in institutions that accept Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement.

Despite having an unprecedented and successful vaccination program, despite the fact that for almost five months, free vaccines have been available at 80,000 different locations, we still have nearly 80 million Americans who have failed to get the shot, the president said.

What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see? he added. Weve made vaccinations free, safe and convenient. the vaccine has FDA approval, over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot. Weve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin, and the refusal has cost all of us. So please do the right thing.

"What more is there to wait for? What more to do you need to see?" Pres. Joe Biden urges unvaccinated Americans to get vaccinated: "We've been patient, but our patience is wearing thin and your refusal has cost all of us." https://t.co/sJbdMAvu3F pic.twitter.com/B4GNtG3X78  ABC News (@ABC) September 9, 2021

The comments came as Biden made a broader push to require vaccines on Thursday. Federal workers will no longer have the option of getting regularly tested for Covid-19 instead of getting vaccinated, and contractors will have to require vaccinations for their employees if they want continued access to public funds.

Businesses are also pivoting their vaccine practices, increasingly demanding that individuals protect themselves and their coworkers against Covid. United Airlines on Wednesday made a similar announcement Wednesday, saying employees who are granted a medical or religious exemption from the Covid-19 vaccine will soon be placed on temporary leave. Given the dire statistics  we can no longer allow unvaccinated people back into the workplace until we better understand how they might interact with our customers and their vaccinated co-workers, the memo sent by Uniteds Vice President of Human Resources Kirk Limacher read.

Beginning October 2nd, United employees who have been granted an exemption on religious grounds will go on voluntary unpaid leave, and employees with medical exemptions will go on temporary medical leave. Unvaccinated employees who are denied exemptions must receive their first Covid-19 vaccine dose by September 27th and finish their vaccination within five weeks or face termination.

How long an employee will be on leave depends on their role, the airline said. Employees placed on leave who interact frequently with customers  such as pilots, flight attendants, and gate agents  will return to work once the pandemic meaningfully recedes, the memo said. Employees who do not directly interact with customers will return to work once new testing and safety procedures are in place.

Uniteds announcement puts it on a growing list of companies  including Bank of America, Facebook and Deloitte  whove either mandated vaccines or instituted consequences for employees who insist on coming to work without getting a shot that protects themselves and their coworkers against Covid. These decisions arent coming from some newfound corporate altruism or deep concern over worker well-being. Instead, companies are doing the one thing they can be reliably counted on to do: protecting their own business model. And in this case, that means requiring workers to take precautions against a disease thats both communicable and deadly.

None of this is going over well with the anti-vaxx crowd, whove fought vaccine mandates aimed at stemming the spread of Covid (current U.S. death toll: 650,000+). But the choice not to get vaccinated has consequences for others, including by increasing the prevalence of Covid and the health risks for those from whom a life-saving vaccine isnt an option. By making the Covid vaccine a condition of employment, Biden and United are signaling theyre done with a system in which the only people shielded from the consequences of anti-vax hysteria are the anti-vaxxers themselves.
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Supporters of the insurrectionists charged following the riot at the Capitol will converge on Washington, D.C., on September 18th for a new rally, this one dubbed Justice for J6. The upcoming event is starting to take on the tenor of the Save America rally that preceded the January 6th insurrection, both in the fervor of the Trump supporters expected to attend, and, according to a Capitol Police intelligence memo obtained Wednesday by CNN, in the violent rhetoric circulating online as the rally draws near.

Fear has been mounting for weeks that the Justice for J6 rally could result in violence. According to the memo, violent online rhetoric surrounding the event has ramped up since Lt. Michael Byrd, the officer who shot and killed insurrectionist Ashli Babbitt when she forced her way toward the House floor, sat down for an interview with NBCs Lester Holt late last month. The Department of Justice announced in April that it would not pursue charges against Byrd, and the Capitol Police cleared him of any wrongdoing days before he revealed his identity by speaking to Holt. But Trump and his acolytes in Congress and across right-wing media have praised Babbitt while stirring up outrage over her death. Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) called it an execution. Trump called Byrd a murderer, describing Babbitt as someone who truly loved America. The former presidents supporters planning on making their way to Washington next week have responded in kind. According to the new memo, some have taken to calling it the Justice for Ashli Babbitt rally, raising concerns of the potential for violent retribution.

The memo also notes that online activity indicates the possibility of, as CNN puts it, violence against Jewish centers and liberal churches while law enforcement is distracted that day.

Theres a best-case scenario in all this, in which the rally falls flat, drawing only a handful of fringe protesters. Thats always a possibility in a movement whose leaders are long on bluster but short on integrity, but January 6th was a lesson in the consequences of under-preparation.

The Capitol Police will reportedly submit their board with plans for security for the event this week, and one can only hope that they will take the discussion happening online more seriously than they did prior to the January insurrection. A report published by a pair of Senate committees in June detailed how the Capitol Polices in-house intelligence unit received information from a variety of sources about threats of violence focused on January 6th, that the intelligence unit didnt act on this intel, and that, as a result, critical information regarding threats of violence was not shared with USCPs own officers and other law enforcement partners.

Five people died during the insurrection and in its immediate aftermath, including one Capitol Police officer. The Capitol Police officers union said that over 140 officers were injured.

Congress is making sure its apprised how the Capitol Police plan to handle the horde of Trump supporters expected to swarm Washington for the rally. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) addressed the event for the first time Wednesday morning, claiming those attending are coming back to praise the people who were out to kill. Politico reported on Wednesday that Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger will brief Pelosi about security preparations next Monday, and that Pelosi has invited Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) to sit in on the briefing.

The nature of these precautions is unclear, although CNN reported last month that discussions were taking place as to whether to reinstall the protective fencing set up around the Capitol following the insurrection. That report came days after Capitol Police arrested a man who claimed to have a bomb near the Library of Congress, a scare that only heightened then tension in Washington that had been building ahead of the Justice for J6 rally, which is being organized by nonprofit called Look Ahead America. Matt Braynard, the former Trump campaign operative who founded the group, issued a foreboding message in announcing the rally on Steve Bannons podcast in July.

Were going back to the Capitol, right where it started, Braynard said. And its going to be huge.
via H-E-B Newsroom

San Antonio is bribing its unvaccinated with H-E-B gift cards, and I, for one, am extremely onboard.

The news comes to us courtesy of MySA's Steven Santana, who reported Thursday that San Antonio City Council is voting on a measure that would allow the city to purchase and distribute $1 million in $100 H-E-B gift cards as enticement to anyone yet to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, piggybacking on a Austin Public Health plan to offer the same to residents in the capital city.
MILWAUKEE (AP)  One person is dead and two others are seriously injured after a law enforcement pursuit ended with a crash in Milwaukee.

According to the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office, all three people were in a vehicle being pursued by the Wisconsin State Patrol Wednesday night.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP)  An Arizona judge ruled Thursday that expert testimony on cellphone data will be allowed in the case of a U.S. Air Force airman who is accused of kidnapping and killing a Mennonite woman.

Authorities used the data and other records to link Mark Gooch to the shooting death of Sasha Krause, 27. She disappeared from her church community outside Farmington, New Mexico, in January 2020, as she was gathering material for a Sunday school class.

Her body was found more than a month later in a forest clearing outside Flagstaff, Arizona, with her hands bound by duct tape.

Gooch's attorney, Bruce Griffen, sought to prevent testimony from a man who reviewed cellphone and other data from testifying at Gooch's trial that's scheduled to start later this month. Griffen argued that Sev Dishman doesn't have enough experience in working particularly with data from AT&T to say with precision where Gooch was when Krause disappeared.

Griffen also noted a warning with the data that says it cannot be relied on to establish location.

Coconino County Superior Court Judge Cathleen Brown Nichols denied the defense motion. She said Dishman established he is an expert through work with his current employer and his time in the military.

Prosecutor Ammon Barker said the cellphone data lines up with Goochs financial records, surveillance video and Gooch's admission that he was in northwestern New Mexico around the time Krause went missing. The jury would have a hard time interpreting the data without Dishman's guidance, Barker said.

Where the defendant was traveling and where he was at certain times and dates is going to be crucial to this case, Barker said.

Dishman, a retired Army sergeant major, said he has consulted or reviewed cellphone data records for law enforcement hundreds of times in the U.S. and teaches courses on the technology for investigative purposes. He agreed that the cellphone data shouldn't be considered alone.

I'm using this as bread-crumb activity, he said.

The motion was one of several that Brown Nichols took up during a hearing Thursday that will continue Friday afternoon. She didn't immediately rule on all of the requests, including one from the defense to determine whether statements that Gooch made to a detective were lawfully obtained. She said she needed more time to listen to the interview.

Brown Nichols denied a request from Barker to admit evidence that Gooch might have targeted Mennonites in burglaries as a teenager in Wisconsin. A childhood friend of Gooch testified Thursday that he didn't recall Gooch saying he disliked Mennonites.

Gooch and Krause didn't know each other, and prosecutors aren't sure why he would have targeted her. Luke Air Force Base where Gooch was stationed in metropolitan Phoenix is about a seven-hour drive from Farmington.

Gooch told authorities he traveled to northwestern New Mexico and to two Mennonite communities near Phoenix because he craved the fellowship. He denied he had anything to do with Krause's disappearance or death, according to public records.

He faces life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder.

Gooch attended Thursday's hearing virtually from jail with a black eye, the result of a fight a few days ago with another inmate, said Coconino County sheriff's spokesman Jon Paxton. Authorities are investigating what led up to it.

Gooch's parents were members of the Mennonite church, and he grew up in the faith but never officially joined the church, he told authorities.

Griffen has asked that evidence on Gooch's connection to the Mennonite church and communication with his family also be excluded from the trial. He said the prejudice is far too great.

Barker said the evidence points to a pattern of alleged disdain Gooch had for Mennonites.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  Indianas ban on telemedicine consultations between doctors and women seeking abortions and several other abortion restrictions are back in force after a federal appeals court set aside a judges ruling that they were unconstitutional.

The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals panel issued a 2-1 ruling Wednesday that allows Indiana to continue enforcing those laws while the court considers a full appeal of the case.

It said District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barkers ruling last month was inconsistent with previous Supreme Court decisions and reinstated Indianas telemedicine ban, along with state laws requiring in-person examinations by a doctor before medication-induced abortions can be performed and a prohibition on second-trimester abortions outside of hospitals or surgery centers.

Plaintiffs contend, and the district court found, that developments in videoconferencing make it possible to dispense with in-person meetings, that improvements in medicine make the use of hospitals or surgical centers unnecessary, and that nurses are competent to approve and monitor medication-induced abortions, the ruling said. The district court concluded that these findings permit it to depart from the holdings of earlier cases. Yet the Supreme Court insists that it alone has the authority to modify its precedents.

Barker, who was nominated as a federal judge in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan, had ruled that the state didnt have the constitutional authority to restrict the use of virtual telemedicine services to women seeking medication abortions without providing evidence that it benefitted the womens health.

The Indiana attorney generals office argued in its appeal of Barkers decision that the Constitution does not require state legislatures constantly to update state statutes to keep up with ever-advancing technologies just because those technologies may make abortion more convenient.

Drug-induced abortions made up 55% of those performed in Indiana last year, according to the state health department.

Appeals court Judge Diane Wood wrote in her dissent that the benefits of Indianas law are illusory, while its burdens are very tangible.

Wood wrote that the laws impose an undue burden on the set of women for whom the law makes a difference  Indiana women of limited means who cannot leave their jobs, pay for extensive travel, obtain access to cars, and potentially go out of state, simply to obtain a lawful abortion.

The Indiana abortion restrictions were challenged in a broad lawsuit filed by Virginia-based Whole Womans Health Alliance and other abortion rights supporters in 2018 as Whole Womans Health fought the states denial of a license to open an abortion clinic in South Bend.

Rupali Sharma, a lawyer for Whole Womans Health, said the courts decision was being reviewed and all legal options were under consideration.

The state's Republican attorney general, Todd Rokita, hailed the appeals court decision.

We would expect our commonsense laws to be upheld as the appeal continues, Rokita said in a statement. Protecting the culture of life is the top priority of my office, and we will continue fighting for every life alongside our legislative partners.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California's progressive state Legislature has shelved bills aimed at requiring workers to either be vaccinated or get weekly coronavirus testing to keep their jobs, punting on a debate about vaccine mandates just days before the state's Democratic governor faces a recall election.

California is already at the forefront the debate around vaccine mandates, with Gov. Gavin Newsom ordering all of the state's roughly 2.2 million health care workers to either get vaccinated or lose their jobs while also directing state workers and teachers to either get vaccinated or submit to weekly testing.

Democrats in the state Legislature were crafting a pair of bills behind the scenes during the final two weeks of the session that would have gone further by either aiding or expanding those orders to include workers in both the public and private sectors.

One bill by Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks would have required all workers to either receive the coronavirus vaccine or submit to weekly testing. Another bill by Assemblyman Evan Low sought to make sure state law protected businesses that chose to require their workers to be vaccinated while also extending paid sick leave for up to 40 hours per week for anyone who can't work because of the virus.

Wicks announced last week she would not pursue her bill this year. Low's bill was still alive this week, and the Democratic Assemblyman from San Jose said he had secured agreements from both business and labor interests. But bills had to be introduced by Wednesday for lawmakers to vote on them this year, and Low missed that deadline.

Both lawmakers indicated they would try again next year.

We unfortunately ran out of time, Low said. While I'm disappointed we will not be passing a bill that would have created greater safeguards for workers and employers, I will continue to exhaust all legislative avenues when it comes to protecting the health and prosperity of all Californians.

Both bills' demise did not stop more than a thousand people from gathering outside of the state Capitol Wednesday for a rally opposing vaccine mandates. People marched around the Capitol in the midday heat, toting signs that read Oppose vaccine mandates or they will never end" and Nothing warrants removal of medical choice" while vendors hawked smoothies from the sidewalk.

As protesters marched, the state Assembly passed a bill that would make it illegal to come within 30 feet (9.14 meters) of someone at a vaccination site for the purpose of obstructing, injuring, harassing, intimidating, or interfering.

Violators could face up to six months in jail and a fine up to $1,000. The bill passed on a 54-0 vote, with Republicans not voting. It must return to the Senate for a final vote before lawmakers finish their work for the year on Friday.

We know that there are anti-vaccine extremists that are escalating their tactics to disrupt and stop these vaccine efforts," Democratic Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan said.

But organizers of the vaccine rally at the Capitol rejected the anti-vaccine label they say has been unfairly thrust on them by others.

If somebody wants to vaccinate, I support that. I just want them to have a choice. I want to have a choice to say no, said Joshua Coleman, co-founder of the group V is for Vaccine that organized Wednesday's rally. He said he believed most people who attended the rally have gotten vaccines at some point in their life. Some people just don't want the COVID-19 vaccine."

Some in the crowd wielded signs with inaccurate information, with one sign claiming vaccines cause early death and another claiming there is no pandemic, just the government waging psychological warfare on you.

There have been more than 222 million confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide with more than 4.5 million deaths, according to data complied by Johns Hopkins University. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the coronavirus vaccines are safe and effective, with more than 369 million doses having been administered in the United States as of last week.

Around noon, organizers had everyone crowd around the west entrance to the state Capitol for a giant group photo, with the goal to show lawmakers people who oppose vaccine mandates are not the minority.

I want the legislators to understand that there is a large a mount of people in this state that do not want medical mandates and that it's unfair, said Olivia Mikos, 44, who organized Wednesday's rally along with Coleman.

More than 80% of people 12 and older in California have received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine, according to data from the California Department of Public Health. That puts California, by far the most populous state in the country, among states with the highest vaccination rates.

___

Associated Press reporter Don Thompson contributed.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California would bar police from using certain face-down holds that have led to multiple unintended deaths under a measure headed to Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday.

The bill expands on the states ban on chokeholds in the wake of George Floyds murder by a Minneapolis policeman. The Assembly gave final approval on a 50-15 vote.

The measure by Democratic Assemblyman Mike Gipson, a former police officer himself, would prohibit police from using techniques that create a substantial risk of whats known as positional asphyxia.

They include putting suspects face down, then pressing down on their backs with hands, elbows or knees to gain control.

It defines the hold as placing a person in a way that compresses their airway and reduces their ability to breathe. That includes putting body weight on a restrained persons neck, torso, or back.

The California State Sheriffs Association said the bill is too broad and neglects situations in which a subject creates a threat of death or serious bodily injury to an officer or another person. Barring the holds by trained officers makes it more likely they will have to use alternatives like batons or Tasers, the association said.

Nevada enacted a similar ban last year as part of broader legislation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Many law enforcement agencies already restrict the practice. Police manuals warn that restraining someone face down for an extended period can lead to injuries or death.

Gipson's legislation gained attention after 26-year-old Mario Gonzalez died in April. He was pinned down by four Alameda Police Department employees for more than five minutes before he died. About the same time, a jury in Southern California awarded more than $2 million to the family of a homeless man who died in 2018 after officers in Anaheim used a similar technique to restrain him.
CHICAGO (AP)  The Archdiocese of Chicago has cleared a suburban priest of allegations he sexually abused children 25 years ago, Cardinal Blase Cupich said Thursday.

Cupich wrote a letter to parishioners Thursday saying there was insufficient reason suspect the Rev. David Ryan had committed sexual abuse of a minor.
ROME (AP)  The Italian Coast Guard rescued 125 migrants who were spotted huddling together on the rocky shore of a tiny uninhabited isle at dawn Thursday, after one of their two boats partially sunk near Lampedusa island.

The migrants, who included 49 women and 20 minors, were in a clear state of shock when found on Isola dei Conigli, the coast guard said. The rocky islet is just across from one of Lampedusa's most popular beaches, which attracts vacationers enjoying its crystalline waters.
In pre-COVID times, business events __ from small academic conferences to giant trade shows like CES __ routinely attracted more than 1 billion participants each year. The pandemic brought those global gatherings to a sudden halt, emptying convention centers and shuttering hotels.

More than a year later, in-person meetings are on the rebound. In late August, 30,000 masked attendees gathered in Las Vegas for ASD Market Week, a retail trade show. In Chicago, the Black Womens Expo recently held the largest event in its history, with 432 vendors and thousands of masked attendees.

People are cautious, but theyre glad to be able to get out and network with other people, said Dr. Barbara Hall, whose company, JBlendz Communications, was among the exhibitors at the expo.

Still, it could be several years __ if ever __ before conferences attract the crowds they did before the pandemic. Many countries and businesses are still restricting travel, pinching attendance at big events like the Canton Trade Fair in China, which required 26,000 vendors to pitch their wares virtually in April.

Health concerns also remain. The industry is keen to avoid another black eye like the Biogen leadership conference, a February 2020 event in Boston that was eventually linked to 300,000 COVID cases.

The New York Auto Show, which regularly attracts more than 1 million people, was canceled two weeks before its August start date because of concerns about the delta variant. A construction machinery trade show in Beijing, which normally attracts 150,000 visitors, has been delayed for two months until November.

Experts say one of the big lessons of 2020 is that much of what happens at conferences and trade shows can happen virtually, lessening the need for big in-person events.

Jaiprit Virdi, an assistant professor at the University of Delaware, said moving events online made them more accessible to the disabled and those who cant afford to travel. Virdi, who is deaf, said shes relieved that in-person conferences are requiring masks for safety. But masks create serious barriers for her, since she relies on lip-reading.

We dont need to go back to the way things were pre-COVID, but rather embrace the lessons from the past year-and-a-half to improve how we conduct these spaces for everyone, Virdi said in an email.

Paddy Cosgrave, the CEO of the Web Summit, a tech conference aimed at startups, said last years virtual-only event was less expensive __ people paid just $100 to attend, versus $700 previously __ and drew in more participants from developing countries. But attendees also felt something was lacking.

In-person meetings provide a quality of interaction that no amount of technology as of yet can replicate, Cosgrave said.

This year, the Web Summit expects 40,000 attendees when it convenes in Lisbon, Portugal, in November. Vaccines or a negative COVID-19 test will be required to attend, but masks are optional.

The Render-Atlanta software engineering conference, scheduled for mid-September, is also requiring vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. To make attendees feel even safer, the conference cut a deal with a sponsor to provide daily testing for its 400 attendees. Masks ___ which can be personalized at a decorating station __ will be required. Attendees can also wear black-and-white bracelets showing their level of comfort with social interaction. Dots mean they're okay with it, stripes mean stay away.

Justin Samuels, Render-Atlanta chief experience officer, said its worth the extra hoops to gather in person. Render-Atlanta is the only Black-owned software engineering conference, with an emphasis on culture that doesnt translate to a Zoom screen, Samuels said.

The actual art of human interaction has to happen in person, Samuels said.

A lot is riding on the revival of in-person meetings. Prior to the pandemic, conferences and trade shows generated more than $1 trillion in direct spending and attracted 1.5 billion attendees annually around the world, according to the Events Industry Council, a trade group.

The group hasnt yet calculated the impact of the virus globally. But the Center for Exhibition Industry Research, which studies the economic impact of U.S. business-to-business trade shows, said those events alone were expected to generate $105 billion in direct and indirect spending in 2020. Instead, that plunged to $24 billion. CEIR doesn't expect a return to growth for the industry until 2023.

Chicagos McCormick Place, the largest convention center in the U.S., laid off 90% of its 2,800 workers last year after 234 events were canceled, said Larita Clark, the CEO of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority. One of the complexs two hotels, the Marriott Marquis Chicago, was temporarily closed; the other, the Hyatt Regency Chicago, saw occupancy drop as low as 10%.

The economic losses extend far beyond exhibition complexes. Fern, a 112-year-old Cincinnati company, builds exhibits and other infrastructure for 1,400 events in a normal year. But for most of last year and the beginning of this year, its revenue dropped well over 90%, said Aaron Bludworth, Ferns president and CEO.

This was much more brutal than anything I have experienced in my career, Bludworth said.

Bludworth doesnt expect his business to fully recover until 2023. But he has been surprised by the demand hes seeing for fall, when his company will be mounting several hundred shows. He's had some requests for help with virtual presentations, he said, but demand for in-person events is stronger.

Maybe you can do education virtually, but when a buyer and seller connect and go out and have dinner, that cannot happen virtually, he said. Our community realizes weve got to get together and sell products and make this commerce happen.

Steve Hill, CEO and president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, said 2022 is shaping up to be a good year for the industry. But he acknowledges a lot will depend on the situation around COVID-19 and whether international travel restrictions are lifted. Foreigners can account for 20% to 30% of attendees at he city's major events, he said.

Hill thinks virtual convention elements are here to stay. They give shows another revenue stream and help them develop followers, he said. But Hill thinks enough people will continue to visit in person that hybrid events wont hurt hotels and restaurants in convention cities.

The shows will get back to 100% attendance. People need the in-person aspect of a show, he said.

But Sherrif Karamat, the president and CEO of the Professional Convention Management Association, is not so sure, particularly as more convention attendees question the environmental impact of travel. Karamat is excited about the prospect of virtual conferencing bringing the world closer.

Learning should not be limited to any one channel. Business networking should not be limited to any one channel, he said.

Karamat says the pandemic is already reshaping the convention industry. Organizers are thinking more deeply about why their conferences matter and the outcomes they want to achieve, he said, which will lead to more meaningful gatherings.

Im very bullish, he said. I feel were going to take this much more seriously.

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AP Writers Kelvin Chan in London, David Koenig in Dallas, Joe McDonald in Beijing and Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed.
HARTFORD  The state Supreme Court Wednesday heard arguments as to whether the bond for Qinxuan Pan, accused of killing Yale graduate student Kevin Jiang, was unreasonably high, but did not immediately come to a decision.

Pan filed a petition for the court to review the bond  the second offered during the case  arguing his $20 million bond is unconstitutional in that it is disproportionately high, he has limited financial resources and no international ties, and he has indicated that he is amenable to residing in Connecticut and being subject to electronic monitoring and/or house arrest if released on bond.

Under the state constitution, defendants have the right to be released on bail upon sufficient security; the justices considered the meaning of that phrase during Wednesdays hearing.

Attorney Norm Pattis, representing Pan, said Wednesday the court should either send the case back for reconsideration, as Judge Gerald Harmon improperly failed to decide whether to offer a 10 percent cash bond to Pan on July 28, or reduce the bond to $5 million, accepting the recommendation of the bail commissioner in the case.

The state offered a series of assertions before Judge Brian Fischer, who initially set the bond at Pans arraignment, Pattis said. He said some of them, such as Pans financial wherewithal, were based on innuendo and anecdote, not evidence.

The state, by offering such accusations without evidence to Fischer, indirectly had denied Pan the possibility of bail, he said.

Is a prosecutorial proffer enough? Pattis said. The defendant was placed in a position of inescapable and irreparable prejudice in these bond hearings because the prosecutor ... clearly was in touch with law enforcement officers throughout the United States and was free to pick and choose ... data she was given.

Pattis noted the case of Peter Manfredonia, accused of two killings, kidnapping, home invasion and other crimes, in which bond initially was set at $5 million.

The Pan family wonders whether this is Yale, the shadow of Yale, cast on the criminal courts, said Pattis. Every case involving Yale seems to acquire a special gravitas.

Senior Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Sugrue argued that the court should uphold the bond, which he said took into account the totality of factors, including nature of the alleged crime, the likelihood of flight and the possibility of harm coming to the community, as well as Pans alleged resources.

Jiangs fiancee, Zion Perry, was the only apparent link between Jiang and Pan, he noted, and a protective order was issued in the case; a firearm allegedly discarded by Pan was tied to four other instances of shots fired in the area.

The state is obligated to offer some bond to the defendant, he said, but in this case, believes there is no amount that can reasonably assure he will reappear in court if released from custody.

If hes out, hes gone, said Sugure. Hes a serious and acute flight risk.

The justices asked a series of questions of Pattis and Sugure as they grappled with the case.

Justice Steven Ecker, noting that neither the prosecution nor defense had offered evidence to support their assertions in the two prior bond hearings, questioned whether an evidentiary hearing should have been held; Pattis concurred with the idea.

Justice Gregory DAuria asked from where the $20 million figure had come. Although Fischer had shared his general rationale, he noted, a dollar amount was not specifically tied to any factor. Given that, he asked, would $500 million have been reasonable?

I dont know what a judge is supposed to do under the circumstances (that) you dont have any useful financial information, said DAuria. It sounds like youre pulling a number out of the air.

Sugure said, in the states view, sufficient security encompassed the series of factors at hand beyond the defendants financial resources. The trial court cannot intentionally act to deny bail, he said, but can set a bond that is too high for the defendant to pay.

Justice Christine Keller and Justice Andrew McDonald asked whether the state should require judges to more expressly state their reasoning for a specific bond, as is done in other states, and/or rely solely on evidence at arraignment.

Sugure said those sort of steps would prompt practical concerns, given the volume of cases moving through the system. In an ideal world, judges would rely solely on evidence, but systemic realities apply as well, he said.

After the justices had exhausted their questions, Chief Justice Richard Robinson, noting the complexity of the case, adjourned proceedings for the day.

William Gerace, Pans attorney, filed the initial motion for Pans bail to be reviewed in June. He has said the $20 million bond, believed to be a record in the state, is too high to be reasonable  an amount tantamount to no bond at all.

In response to that initial motion, the state Supreme Court ordered Fischer, who set the bond, to articulate his reasoning or hold a hearing to establish the evidence on which he based it.

Fischer did so by the courts July 15 deadline, citing Pans flight from the area in February after the killing, which prompted a nationwide manhunt; the slaying itself; Pans financial resources; his use of a false name; his connection to China; and the likelihood that he would flee the country, among other factors.

Harmon then affirmed Pans bond at $20 million on July 28, saying he also believed Pan was an acute flight risk, among other factors. Fischers choice of bail was appropriate, he said.

In their announcement, judicial branch officials noted Harmon cited the seriousness of the charged crime, the strength of the states case, the defendants lack of ties to Connecticut, his flight and his familys assistance therewith, the $19,000 in cash found with him during his apprehension, and his mental health, among other factors.

Jiang was shot to death on Lawrence Street in the citys East Rock neighborhood Feb. 6.

5 things we know about Qinxuan Pans arrest and the killing of Kevin Jiang

Those who knew Jiang have described him as a person of faith and energy, including his parents, speaking during his funeral at Trinity Baptist Church in New Haven.

City police obtained a warrant charging Pan with Jiangs slaying in late February. The department had named him as a person of interest in the case Feb. 10.

Pan, formerly a graduate student at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, was not arrested until May 13 in Montgomery, Ala., following a search by U.S. marshals and others.

Perry, Jiangs fiancee, also attended MIT as an undergraduate student, graduating in 2020 with a degree in biological engineering.

Pan was living in Malden, Mass., on the day he allegedly drove to New Haven and killed Jiang.

Affidavit: The guns, cars and DNA that led police to arrest Qinxuan Pan in slaying of Yale grad student.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.com
MULESHOE, Texas (AP)  For decades, the Texas Panhandle was green with cotton, corn and wheat. Wells drew a thousand gallons (3,785 liters) a minute from the seemingly bottomless Ogallala aquifer, allowing farmers to thrive despite frequent dry spells and summer heat.

But groundwater that sustained generations is drying up, creating another problem across the Southern plains: Without enough rain or groundwater for crops, soil can blow away  as it did during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

We wasted the hell out of the water, says Muleshoe, Texas, farmer Tim Black, recalling how farmers irrigated when he was a kid. Water flooded furrows or sprayed in high arcs before farmers adopted more efficient center-pivot systems.

His grandfather could reach water with a post-hole digger. Black is lucky to draw 50 gallons (189 liters) a minute from wells up to 400 feet (122 meters) deep.

Now farmers are facing tough choices, especially in parts of Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

Some are growing less-thirsty crops or improving irrigation. Others, like Black, are replacing some cash crops with cattle and pastureland.

And more are planting native grasses that go dormant during drought, while deep roots hold soil and green with the slightest rain.

Theres a reason Mother Nature selected those plants to be in those areas, says Nick Bamert, whose father started a seed company specializing in native grasses 70 years ago. The natives ... will persist because theyve seen the coldest winters and the hottest dry summers.

Black, a former corn farmer, plants native grasses on corners of his fields, as pasture for cattle and between rows of wheat and annual grass.

The transition to cattle, he hopes, will allow his oldest son to stay on the land Blacks grandparents began plowing 100 years ago. His younger son is a data analyst near Dallas.

You want your kids to come back, but damn, theres better ways to make a living than what were doing, says Black. Its just too hard here with no water.

Already sand billows off fields during dry spells and clogs fields, ditches and roadways.

Farmers do the best they can, but everybody knows ... the waters going away, says Jude Smith, a biologist who oversees the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge, established during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl to preserve native prairie and three spring-fed lakes.

More than half the currently irrigated land in portions of western Texas, eastern New Mexico and the Oklahoma Panhandle could be lost by the end of the century, according to a study last year. And the central part of the aquifer could lose up to 40% of irrigated area by 2100.

Those losses might be slowed as farmers adapt to lower water levels, researchers say. But the projections underscore the need for planning and incentives in vulnerable areas.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is prioritizing grasslands conservation in a Dust Bowl Zone in parts of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.

But reestablishing native vegetation in the sandy soil over the Ogallala has proven difficult where irrigation ceased on former Kansas farmland. The same is true on land outside the Ogallala previously irrigated with river water, including in Colorados Arkansas River Valley.

Extended periods of drought that plagued the Southwest over the past 20 years likely will continue, says meteorologist Brad Rippey with the USDA.

So farmers may need to use some remaining groundwater to reestablish native grasses, says study co-author Meagan Schipanski, an associate professor of soil and crop sciences at Colorado State University.

In an ideal world, there would be some forethought and incentives available to farmers, Schipanski says.

Chris Grotegrut, who has planted 75% of his familys land in native grasses, says most farmers arent transitioning fast enough.

Maybe theyre using the latest and greatest of equipment and technology in the field, but (that) will not totally offset the change thats coming to them, says Grotegut, who uses native grasses for grazing and plants wheat directly into native grass pastures.

But experts say federal crop insurance and conservation programs often work at cross purposes: Farmers sometimes plant crops even if they're likely to fail, because they're protected by insurance; and cultivating land often is more profitable than government payments for grasslands.

From 2016 through mid-2021, fewer than 328,000 acres (132,737 hectares) were enrolled in the USDAs Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program in Dust Bowl Zone counties, according to USDA data. Enrollment for 2021 ended last month, but the USDA has not released the most recent totals.

In Texas, fewer than 32,000 acres were enrolled in Dust Bowl counties over the past five years  none in Bailey County, where Black lives.

Although grasslands also can be enrolled in other programs, there was a big push this summer to enroll more in the CRP grasslands program, which allows grazing and was authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill, says Zach Ducheneaux, head of the USDAs Farm Service Agency.

The agency sharply increased payments to a minimum of $15 per acre, after they were reduced by the Trump administration, Ducheneaux says.

The transition to grasslands and conservation also is hindered by an agricultural banking system that makes it difficult to obtain loans for anything other than conventional farming and equipment.

But farmers need programs that allow them to earn a living while they make the transition to grasslands and less irrigation, over perhaps 15 years, says Amy Kremen of the Ogallala Water Coordinated Agriculture Project.

Theres a hunger for action that wasnt there even five years ago, because of the severity of the water loss, Kremen says. Whats at stake is the vitality of communities that depend on this water and towns drying up and blowing away.

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Follow Tammy Webber on Twitter: @twebber02

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Read more of APs climate coverage at http://www.apnews.com/Climate

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The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
WICHITA, Kan. (AP)  A federal grand jury on Thursday indicted former Kansas state Rep. Michael Capps on 19 counts alleging that he tried to defraud federal, state and county government organizations out of more than $450,000 in coronavirus relief funding.

The U.S. Attorney's office in Kansas said in a news release that Capps, a Republican from Wichita, filed forms inflating the number of employees he had at two businesses and a sports foundation, and then applied for loans to pay the non-existent employees.

The alleged fraud involved the Small Business Administrations Paycheck Protection Program and Emergency Injury Disaster Loan programs, which are designed to provide assistance to businesses that struggled during the pandemic.

According to prosecutors, Capps also defrauded the Kansas Department of Commerces Small Business Working Capital Grant program and Sedgwick Countys CARES Act grant program.

Capps is charged with multiple counts of making a false statement, bank fraud, wire fraud and money laundering.

The Associated Press couldn't immediately find a phone number for Capps, and the charging documents don't list an attorney for him. His initial court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 22. Messages left with his two businesses were not returned.

The FBI and Sedgwick County District Attorney's office began investigating the loans after the Wichita Eagle published the findings of its own investigation in December.

Capps was one of three Wichita-area Republican officials who were embroiled in an unrelated controversy over trying to cover up a plot to smear Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple during last years mayoral election.

The men were recorded discussing a way to frame another GOP official for the production of an ad that falsely suggested Whipple was accused of sexual harassment when he served in the Kansas Legislature. Whipple was reelected.

Capps resisted calls to resign from the Legislature when the recordings were released but he lost his reelection bid last year after serving only one term.
Korey Rowe served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned to the U.S. in 2004 traumatized and disillusioned. His experiences overseas and nagging questions about Sept. 11, 2001 convinced him America's leaders were lying about what happened that day and the wars that followed.

The result was Loose Change, a 2005 documentary produced by Rowe and written and directed by his childhood friend, Dylan Avery, that popularized the theory that the U.S. government was behind 9/11. One of the first viral hits of the still-young internet, it encouraged millions to question what they were told.

While the attacks united many Americans in grief and anger, Loose Change spoke to the disaffected.

It was the lightning rod that caught the lightning, Rowe recalls. He had hoped the film would prompt a sober reassessment of the attacks. Rowe, who lives in Oneonta, New York, doesn't regret the film, and still questions the events of 9/11, but says he's deeply troubled by what 9/11 conspiracy theories revealed about the corrosive nature of misinformation on the internet.

Twenty years on, the skepticism and suspicion first revealed by 9/11 conspiracy theories has metastasized, spread by the internet and nurtured by pundits and politicians like Donald Trump. One hoax after another has emerged, each more bizarre than the last: birtherism. Pizzagate. QAnon.

Look at where its gone: You have people storming the Capitol because they believe the election was a fraud. You have people who wont get vaccinated and theyre dying in hospitals," Rowe says. "Weve gotten to the point where information is actually killing people.

There were, of course, conspiracy theories before 9/11 happened  John F. Kennedys assassination, the moon landing, a supposed 1947 UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico. And the countrys interest in alternative, fringe theories was on the rise before 9/11, exemplified by the 1990s show The X-Files, with its taglines of The truth is out there and trust no one. But it was 9/11 that heralded our current era of suspicion and disbelief and revealed the internet's ability to catalyze conspiracy theories.

Conspiracy theories have always been with us, and its just the means of sharing them that has changed, says Karen Douglas, a psychology professor at the University of Kent in England who studies why people believe such explanations. The internet has made conspiracy theories more visible and easy to share than ever before. People can also very quickly find like-minded others, join groups, and share their opinions.

Conspiracy theories about the attack and its aftermath also gave early exposure to some of the same people pushing hoaxes and unfounded claims about COVID-19, vaccines and the 2020 election, including Alex Jones, the Trump-supporting publisher of Infowars, who has accused the United States of plotting the attacks and has said the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax. Jones was a co-producer of the third edition of Loose Change."

Polls show belief in 9/11 conspiracy theories peaked in the years immediately following the attack, then subsided. Repeated surveys show a small percentage of Americans continue to harbor doubts about the official explanation of the attacks.

It's not surprising that such views persist, or that they have ebbed over time. Shocking, sudden events often spawn conspiracy theories as people collectively grapple with understanding them, says Mark Fenster, a University of Florida law school professor who has studied the history of conspiracy theories in America.

A plane that runs into the World Trade Center? That runs into the Pentagon? It sounds like the stuff of films, Fenster says. It just didn't seem like a real event, and it's when you have a major anomalous event like this that conspiracy theories sometimes come around.

Before the internet, conspiracy theorists relied on books, pamphlets and the occasional late night television show to espouse their beliefs. Now, they can swap theories on message boards like Reddit, post videos on YouTube, and win over new converts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

The first known 9/11 conspiracy theory was put forward only hours after the attack, when an American software engineer emailed a post to an internet forum questioning whether the towers were toppled by a controlled detonation.

Twenty years on, a search on YouTube for content related to 9/11 turns up millions of hits.

Thousands of videos focus on conspiracy theories. That is a lot, but the grandfather of modern conspiracy theories has been outpaced by the upstarts: A Google search of 9/11 conspiracy theory turns up more than 8 million results, while a search for COVID conspiracy theory turns up more than three times that.

Tech companies say they have done what they can to limit the spread of false information about 9/11. YouTube has added links to authoritative sources to some 9/11-related videos. Facebook says it has added fact checks to several viral hoaxes about 9/11, including one that the Pentagon was struck by a missile and not a plane.

For many younger Americans who came of age after 9/11, the internet is the first place they go for information on the event. Sept. 11 isn't taught consistently in schools; some districts require it while others brush over it or ignore it completely.

False claims about the attacks often come up at the National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum, which offers educational services to visitors and school children across the country. Such instances are an opportunity to talk about the facts of what did happen, and the many investigations that followed, according to Megan Jones, senior director of educational programs at the memorial.

We have a generation now with no memory of 9/11, so its important to share the stories of what happened, Jones says.

Bogus claims about the Sept. 11 attacks never posed the threat now ascribed to misinformation about COVID-19 or the 2020 U.S. elections. But even proponents of 9/11 conspiracy theories say questions about what happened primed the pump for the distrust and anxiety behind today's conspiracy theories.

The danger is, once you have that distrust of authority and government, it's a dangerous place to be, says Matt Campbell, a British citizen whose brother died in the World Trade Center on 9/11. Campbell believes the towers came down after a controlled demolition, and is seeking a new inquest in the UK that would review his brother's death.

If you think everything they're telling you is a lie, then you just switch off: Could be true, might not be true, whatever," Campbell says.

On the grand scale, such the distrust the underlies such beliefs can become dangerous when they begin to divide a society, or when they are exploited by a political leader or an outside adversary.

Usually it is the case that the people who feel they are being excluded from power who are committed to conspiracy theories, Fenster says. Whats different this time is that it was the party that was in power  the party that had the White House  that was the main broadcaster of conspiracy theories.

Early on, conspiracy theories about Sept. 11 were popular with some liberals who disliked former President George W. Bush or who opposed the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. But after Barack Obama became president, bogus claims about 9/11 began growing in popularity among some conservatives who cite it as an example of the handiwork of the Deep State."

Two years before winning her seat in Congress in 2020, Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene said she doubted that a plane had actually hit the Pentagon. Last year she acknowledged that she had been wrong, and sought to deflect blame by saying it was the government's fault that she spread misinformation.

The problem is our government lies to us so much to protect the Deep State, its hard sometimes to know what is real and what is not," she tweeted.

Ben Crew is a screenwriter who has produced a video debunking many popular 9/11 conspiracy theories. He's also started a project in which he travels the country collecting personal accounts of 9/11, with the goal of getting at least one story from all 50 states.

Crew hears lots of conspiracy theories  claims about a missile hitting the Pentagon, claims that the airliners that hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania were empty.

He says that almost everyone he interviews considers 9/11 to be a pivotal point in American history, the start of a wave of anxiety and fear that for many people still hasn't crested.

It seems like there's an opportunity for everything to just catch fire now," Crew says. Nine-eleven ignited that.

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David Klepper covers misinformation for The Associated Press. Follow him on twitter: https://twitter.com/davidklepper

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For an in-depth look at APs coverage of 9/11 and the events that followed, read September 11: The 9/11 Story, Aftermath & Legacy, available now.
A civil rights attorney who fought to desegregate Southern schools in the 1960s and was pushed out of his University of Mississippi teaching job amid uproar over his work on behalf of Black clients has died. He was 80.

George M. Strickler Jr., died at his New Orleans home on Sept. 2 after a long illness, his son Andrew Strickler said Wednesday.

After graduating from Yale Law School in 1966, the Vidalia, Louisiana, native worked with North Mississippi Rural Legal Services, a program affiliated with the University of Mississippi that was dedicated to providing legal help to the poor. He also taught part time at the university's law school.

But the program's civil rights work quickly aggravated state lawmakers and Ole Miss trustees, who pushed the school to cut ties with the program after its lawyers filed a lawsuit to desegregate two public school districts in Marshall County.

Strickler and one of his colleagues, Michael Trister, sued the school over its refusal to allow them to continue teaching while also working with the legal services program.

A federal appeals court ruled in the pair's favor in 1969, finding that Ole Miss allowed other professors to do outside legal work while Strickler and Trister were barred from teaching just because they wished to continue to represent clients who tended to be unpopular.

Strickler went on to work with the Lawyers Constitutional Defense Committee  an organization that recruited lawyers to help in civil rights cases  where he challenged discriminatory practices affecting Louisiana schools.

During a U.S. Senate committee hearing in 1970, Strickler told lawmakers how Black public school students were being hurt by policies that allowed textbooks and other resources to be transferred from integrated public schools to the private schools to which many white students were moving.

"What I'm suggesting is that there must be some way to provide aid for these students," Strickler said, according to a transcript. Their school system is integrated on paper, at least, and Black students are still suffering from the effects of discrimination."

In 1975, he won a court ruling barring Louisiana from providing state funding for things such as textbooks, transportation and school supplies to racially discriminatory or segregated private schools.

Ann Woolhandler, who started working with Strickler as a young lawyer, recalled how an opposing attorney in a case Strickler won said afterward: Ive known attorneys who were smarter than I was but I worked harder, and Ive known attorneys who worked harder than I did but I was smarter. But George Strickler worked harder and was smarter than I was.

I think anyone would have admired his legal skills and versatility, said Woolhandler, now a University of Virginia Law School professor.

Strickler joined Tulane University Law Schools faculty in 1979 and taught civil rights and employment discrimination law before retiring in 2016.

He argued more than 100 federal cases throughout his career, including a freedom of speech case before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1982 on behalf of an assistant district attorney in New Orleans who sued over her firing. The Supreme Court ruled against Sheila Myers and overturned a lower court ruling that ordered her to be reinstated.

Outside of the courtroom, Strickler's passions included duck hunting, dog training and collecting vintage bikes, his son said.

He is survived by his wife, Michelle Girardin of New Orleans, and two sons from a previous marriage: J. Sloane Strickler and Andrew C. Strickler. Other survivors include his daughters-in-law, Amy Karpel and Colleen Long, and three grandchildren: Haley Strickler, George Wyatt Strickler, and Ruby S. Strickler, of Washington, D.C.
GIRLOY, Calif. (AP)  A Gilroy police officer shot and killed a man who shot at him outside a post office Wednesday morning, police said.

The officer answering a report of an intoxicated man went to the location at around 2:30 a.m., police said.
EDWARDSVILLE  A Godfrey woman faces several fraud, theft and forgery charges stemming from home service time sheets.

The case was filed Tuesday by the Illinois Attorney Generals Office.

Marqkita M Byrd, 36, of Godfrey, was charged Sept. 7 with vendor fraud and two counts of theft, all Class 1 felonies, and one count of forgery, a Class 3 felony.

According to court documents, between June 20, 2017 and Jan. 2, 2020, Byrd submitted false time sheets to the Illinois Department of Human Service for payment of between $10,000 and $100,000, and made or altered documents to commit fraud.

Bail was set at $150,000.

Other felonies filed Sept. 7 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 Isaiah N. Morrissette, 18, of Alton, was charged with criminal damage to property over $500, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On Sept. 3 Morrissette allegedly damaged a television, end table, closet door, carpet and other items at a residence in the 1100 block of Putnam. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Dkayla D. Coleman, 19, of East St. Louis, was charged with retail theft over $300, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Edwardsville Police Department. On Sept. 4 Coleman allegedly took clothing valued in excess of $300 from Hibbit Sports, 2302 Troy Road, Edwardsville. Bail was set at $30,000.

 Corey E. Willis, 30, of St. Louis, was charged with retail theft under $300 (second subsequent offense), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. On Sept. 3 Willis allegedly took beer valued at less than $300 from the Granite City Quiktrip. He has a prior conviction for theft out of Angola County, Texas in March. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Robert Pospischel, 54, listed as homeless out of Granite City, was charged with retail theft under $300 (second subsequent offense), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Edwardsville Police Department. On Sept. 6 Pospischel allegedly took ribeye steaks valued at less than $300 from Market Basket in Edwardsville. It was noted he has a prior conviction for retail theft out of Madison County in 2011. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Eddie L. Adams Jr., 30, of East St. Louis, was charged with retail theft under $300 (second subsequent offense), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. On Sept. 5 Adams allegedly took beer valued at less than $300 from the Granite City Schnucks. He has a 2017 St. Clair County conviction for retail theft. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Walter T. Borello, 51, of Alton, was charged with retail theft under $300 (second subsequent offense), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Madison County Sheriffs Department. On Sept. 6 Borello allegedly took cat food and kitty litter valued at less than $300 from the Godfrey Walmart, 6660 Godfrey Road. It was noted he has a prior conviction of larceny by employee out of Haywood County, North Carolina in 2008. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Thelma D. Jordan, 32, of Alton, was charged with aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On Sept. 4 Jordan allegedly was driving a 2010 Chevrolet Impala when she attempted to flee from an Alton police officer, disobeying two or more traffic control devices. Bail was set at $25,000.
WASHINGTON (AP)  House Democrats began pushing plans for providing paid family and medical leave, easing climate change and bolstering education through House committees Thursday as they battled Republicans and among themselves over President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion vision for reshaping federal priorities.

Five committees worked on their slices of the 10-year proposal, early steps in what looms as a fraught autumn for Democrats hoping to enact a remarkable range of major policy changes. They face not only solid GOP opposition but internal divisions among progressives and moderates in a Congress they control so narrowly that they can afford only three House defections, none in the Senate.

We have a once-in-a-generation chance to make transformative, beneficial change," said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal, D-Mass., as his tax-writing panel debated its pivotal chunk of the voluminous legislation. This is our moment to lay a new foundation of opportunity for the American people."

Republicans cast the still-evolving measure as an economy killer that would raise taxes, cost jobs, worsen federal debt and make people increasingly reliant on government. In a signal of the broad political potency they believe the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan offers, they repeatedly conjured that image to belittle Democrats' economic plans.

Following the humiliating Afghanistan surrender, now President Biden is leading America on an economic surrender to China, Russia, Europe and the Middle East," said the top Republican on Ways and Means, Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas.

At a sixth committee, Democrats controlling the House Energy and Commerce panel unveiled new details supporting Biden's push to wean power plants off climate-damaging fossil fuels by 2035. That included $150 billion in grants for utilities investing in cleaner energy sources plus millions of dollars in penalties for companies that dont boost clean electricity output by at least 4% annually.

They also released their blueprint for retooling Medicare, Medicaid, childrens health insurance and the 2010 health care law. There were few surprises, but the proposals, which face votes next week, underscored Democrats intent to reinforce the pillars of the nations health care system with new benefits, lower costs and expanded insurance coverage.

In an early manifestation of unrest, one Democrat on the Ways and Means panel voted against the first two sections of her party's bill after complaining that lawmakers lacked information on its cost and hadn't been shown key portions dealing with taxes and prescription drug prices.

Moderate Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., is co-chair of the House Blue Dog Coalition, a centrist group whose members include some of Congress' most conservative Democrats. On one of those votes, outgoing moderate Rep. Ron Kind, D-Wis., joined her in voting no.

I don't know how much we're spending, how much we're raising, how we're spending some of the money and how we're raising any of the money, Murphy told her colleagues.

Democrats have said they will pay for much of the overall bill by raising taxes on the rich and corporations. They've said no one earning under $400,000 annually would face higher levies.

By Thursday afternoon Neal had not released details of any revenue proposals, including the tax boosts or some tax cuts his party wants to use to help ease people's costs for health care and other needs.

Also not provided were Neal's plans to let Medicare save money by negotiating prices they pay for prescription drugs, another way they hope to raise money for the bill's priorities.

Moderate Democrats  most prominently Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona  have said the bill's proposed $3.5 trillion cost is too high. Congressional Democratic leaders have conceded that the price tag may have to fall to retain moderate votes, causing anger among progressives who want the package to spend as much as possible.

House and Senate Democrats also must still reach agreements on many issues, including key questions about overall spending and revenues. Democrats in the more moderate Senate have been concerned about the price tags of some House spending proposals.

The Ways and Means portion of the measure is to contain many of Biden's top priorities. These include creation of up to 12 weeks per year of family and medical leave for all workers beginning in 2023. The benefit would pay the lowest-earning workers up to 85% of their wages, a percentage that would fall for higher earners.

Democrats on the committee batted down Republican amendments. One by Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., would have delayed the paid leave program from taking effect until six months after the Treasury Department would certify that the government had enough expertise to start it.

The Energy and Commerce panel would limit price increases for medications. It would roughly halve Bidens request for $400 billion to expand home and community-based long-term care services, an apparent bow to constraints Democrats face to live within their self-imposed $3.5 trillion price tag.

Funding for the Childrens Health Insurance Program, which covers nearly 10 million kids, would be made permanent. And money would be provided to cover 4 million low-income adults in states that have not expanded their Medicaid programs.

Energy and Commerce would also spend billions to upgrade the power grid, create an electric vehicle charging network, replace lead drinking water pipes and help minority communities most affected by pollution and climate change.

Separately, the House Education and Labor Committee worked on a proposed $761 billion to create free pre-school and community college and increase funds for job training, nutrition programs and modernizing public school buildings.

The House Natural Resources Committee was working on $30 billion for addressing climate change and other environmental issues. This includes money to protect coastlines from rising seas and create Biden's proposed Civilian Climate Corps, which would employ hundreds of thousands of people on environmental projects.

Other panels were working on provisions for small business and science programs.

Top Democrats want to quickly assemble the overall bill, which 13 House committees are crafting, by late September in hopes of moving it through the full House and Senate. That may well prove overly ambitious.

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Associated Press reporters Matthew Daly and Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  For then-Sen. Joe Biden, Sept. 11, 2001, started like most days: riding the 8:35 a.m. Amtrak to work. He had a relatively quiet day planned, including meetings with constituents and a nomination hearing.

Then his wife, Jill, called, telling him a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. Mid-sentence, she cried, Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh my God.

The second tower was hit.

The terrorist attacks that day shattered Americans' sense of security and ushered in an era of nebulous threats, hidden enemies and a seemingly never-ending war on terror. And for Biden, a failed presidential candidate whose political career appeared to have peaked, they marked a new phase of his public life.

The Delaware senator and chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee would devote even more energy to international affairs. He would point to that experience during his ultimately successful White House bid last year to portray himself as a seasoned statesman who could restore American stability and prestige. And it would inform his controversial decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, effectively ending the war that began in the wake of the terror attacks.

None of those twists, however, seemed inevitable when Biden's train arrived at Washington's Union Station on Sept. 11.

As he entered the city, he saw smoke in the sky from another plane that had struck the Pentagon. His first instinct, and the one that guided his actions in the dark days and weeks to come, was to reassure  his family, his staff, but most of all average Americans concerned about their future in a country seemingly under siege.

Biden marched up to the steps of the Senate, wanting to get onto the Senate floor.

He later said that I thought it was awfully important that the Senate be in session. That people see us. That they could turn on their TV and see where we were.

But the Capitol and the surrounding complex of offices and official buildings, including the Supreme Court, had been evacuated, and Biden was turned away by Capitol police, who said there was a risk that the Capitol could be attacked next.

So instead, he took his message to the streets around the Capitol.

Biden's former press secretary Margaret Aitken spent the morning by his side, fielding requests from reporters to speak with the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and watched as Biden spent hours talking to his colleagues, staffers and even tourists on the streets about what had happened.

People were stopping him on the street and saying, Are we alright? Are we going to be okay? she recalled.

Initially, both President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were taken to undisclosed locations and had yet to address the nation extensively about the situation, so Bidens priority, Aitken said, was to make sure that people knew that the U.S. government was up and operational and functioning.

Biden's daughter, Ashley, called him panicked, telling him there were reports of another plane coming for the Capitol. Get out of there, she implored him, but he resisted, telling her this is the safest place to be. Shortly after, the fourth plane came down in Pennsylvania.

Later in the day, Biden joined a few dozen lawmakers at the Capitol police headquarters near Union Station, where he found Philadelphia Rep. Bob Brady, a longtime friend. After the chaotic morning, Brady said Biden was a sight for sore eyes.

Brady said they largely spent the time watching news coverage, and so both decided to leave, with Biden planning to hitch a ride home with Brady. They walked out directly into a group of waiting reporters, and Brady and the other lawmakers pushed Biden to speak.

I looked at him and said, youre the boss, man, youre the highest one here, Brady recounted.

Facing the cameras, Biden again called for calm. He cautioned against making quick judgments of the situation, expressed support for Bush and said the most important thing was for the government to be back up and running as quickly as we can.

As they hopped in a van, Biden got a call from Bush and he used the moment to recount a story about Charles de Gaulle standing tall in the midst of gunfire during a parade at the end of World War II, giving the French people confidence. He told Bush: Come back to Washington. The president eventually did, late that night, but Biden wrote in his memoir that his initial absence made him less sure that President Bush could provide the wisdom and judgment this new reality demanded.

Brady and Biden spent the rest of the ride to Wilmington listening to the radio and talking about the future, trying to piece together what the hell was going to happen next. The congressman dropped Biden off at the Wilmington Amtrak station. But his day wasnt over yet.

Brian McGlinchey, a special assistant and projects director for Biden, had spent the afternoon in the senators district office with about a dozen other staffers taking phone calls from worried constituents. They planned to stay late into the night, and were weary after hours of fielding questions they struggled to answer.

Just as the day was turning to night, McGlinchey recounted, lo and behold, who walks in the doors with Gerardos pizza but the man himself.

Biden, shirtsleeves rolled up but tie still on, had brought a dozen pizzas from one of his favorite Wilmington shops and a message of encouragement for his staff.

Were gonna get through this, he told them. Dark days are not always going to be in front of us.

And honest to God, it was like somebody flipped a switch. We really needed that, McGlinchey said.

Biden told them he was proud of their work, and talked about what it means to be an American, and how we shine in these kinds of defining moments. McGlinchey gave Biden a hug. The senator left for home, but his staff, newly energized, stayed at the office until midnight.

His message to staff was one Biden would bring to Americans again and again in the coming weeks, with an appearance on Oprah Winfreys show, endless television interviews and speeches at colleges and universities across Delaware. On Sept. 19, he delivered a speech at the University of Delaware that held early echoes of the message hed bring again decades later as president, to Americans facing new crises at home and abroad.

This isnt a time for fear," he said. This is a time to keep going, not to retreat; to mourn those who died, but not to despair. Its a time for resolve, but not remorse. But most importantly, its a time to unite and not debate, because we all know what we have to do.
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)  The Hungarian government has offered to assist Poland in conducting border surveillance on its eastern border with Belarus in an effort to deter migrants from entering the country illegally, Hungary's president said Thursday.

A serious migration crisis has developed on the Polish-Belarusian border, and events in Afghanistan "are likely to put even greater migration pressure on Poland in the future, Hungarian President Janos Ader said at a joint press conference in Budapest with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda.

Hungary will offer its help in surveillance and maintaining a 370-kilometer (230-mile)-long fence which is currently under construction along the border, Ader said. The country will also share experiences with its own border barrier that it began erecting in 2015 during that year's influx of migrants into Europe.

Poland, a strong ally of Hungary's right-wing government, last week declared a state of emergency at a 3-kilometer (nearly 2-mile) strip of land along its border with Belarus amid increasing migration pressure.

European leaders, including those from Poland and the Baltic states of Latvia and Lithuania, have accused authoritarian Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko of sending migrants across their borders to destabilize the EU in revenge for sanctions it has imposed on his Kremlin-backed regime.

At the press conference Thursday, Duda thanked Ader for the offer of assistance at the border, adding that Belarus had been taking hybrid measures, pushing migrants into Poland.

Duda also met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who assured him of Hungarys full support over what Orban called an attack on Poland by the EU's executive branch after it moved to impose financial penalties on the country to ensure compliance with EU law.

The European Commission on Tuesday said it wants the European Court of Justice to impose daily fines against the government in Warsaw in a long-running dispute over Polands judicial system.

The conflict comes as both Hungary and Poland face other financial penalties from the EU over concerns that their nationalist governments are not complying with EU rule of law standards.

Orban called the decision to fine Poland outrageous and completely unacceptable, his press chief Bertalan Havasi told Hungarian news agency MTI. Hungary's government had agreed to pass a resolution supporting Poland, and will examine possibilities for taking legal action on Warsaws behalf, Havasi added.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The Interior Department has postponed Secretary Deb Haaland's planned visit to Alaska until later this year, a department spokesperson said.

Melissa Schwartz, in a statement Wednesday, said the decision was made out of an abundance of caution given rising COVID rates and in consultation with Alaska Native, local and federal leaders.

The Alaska health department shows most of the state is under high alert status, which is based on reported COVID-19 cases in the past seven days.

Schwartz previously said Haaland had planned to travel to Alaska, including the community of King Cove, in mid-September to meet with local officials, Alaska Native leaders and others.

King Cove is at the center of a dispute over a proposed land exchange aimed at building a road through a national wildlife refuge in Alaska. King Cove residents have long sought a land connection through Izembek National Wildlife Refuge to Cold Bay, which has an all-weather airport. Supporters of the effort see it as a life and safety issue.

In 2013, Interior Department officials declined a land exchange. Under the Trump administration, efforts to move forward with a land exchange faced legal challenges, including an ongoing case.

A Justice Department attorney last month told a federal appeals court panel that Haaland planned to review the record and visit King Cove before making a decision on what position she would take.

Schwartz, in her statement, called the Alaska visit critically important to the Secretary and to the mission of the Department, and the kind of robust community engagement desired would not be possible given health and safety concerns throughout the regions.
ROME (AP)  Italian anti-terrorism police on Thursday raided the homes of eight people who allegedly advocated violence, particularly against journalists, in upcoming protests in Rome and elsewhere against the government's COVID-19 vaccine requirements, officials said.

The eight had formed a group called the warriors on the Telegram messaging app, police said. The raids were carried out in Rome and five northern cities, including Milan and Bergamo, which has been particularly hard hit by COVID-19.

The eight are under investigation but have not been arrested or formally charged.

Police said the suspects were planning violence, including using home-made explosive devices, at rallies, particularly one this weekend in Rome by opponents of the so-called Green Pass certification.

Starting earlier this summer, the certification has been required to dine indoors, access gyms or attend crowded venues like concerts. This month the requirements were extended to domestic travel on planes, trains, buses and ferries, although local transport is exempt.

To obtain a pass, one must either have had at least one vaccine dose, have recovered from COVID-19 in the past six months or have tested negative in the past 48 hours.

Milan anti-terrorism police chief Guido D'Onofrio said the suspects particularly wanted to target journalists. He told a news conference that they advocated use of violence including blowing up trucks operated by TV networks.

No explosives were found in the searches on Thursday, D'Onofrio stressed. Police found brass knuckles during the raids.

At an anti-vaccine rally last month, an Italian newspaper reporter was punched repeatedly in the face and needed hospital treatment. At another rally, a state TV reporter had to be rescued by police after a demonstrator pulled her by the hair.

Green Pass protests have been held sporadically for weeks around Italy. But while at the start some drew a few thousand participants, recent ones, including in Rome, were far more sparsely attended, sometimes by fewer than a dozen people.

Green Pass requirements also apply to teachers, principals and administrative staff. At universities, students as well as staff need the certification to enter the premises.

Nearly 73% of residents in Italy aged 12 or more  and thus eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine  are fully vaccinated. But virus experts are concerned that 20% of those older than 50 haven't signed up for the vaccine.

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Follow all of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Six Black farmworkers in Mississippi say in a new lawsuit that their former employer brought white laborers from South Africa to do the same jobs they were doing, and that the farm has been violating federal law by paying the white immigrants more for the same type of work.

Mississippi Center for Justice and Southern Migrant Legal Services filed the federal lawsuit Wednesday on behalf of the six workers against Pitts Farm Partnership, which grows cotton, soybeans and corn in the Mississippi Delta's Sunflower County.

The lawsuit said the farm violated regulations of a foreign worker visa program, which requires equal treatment of U.S. workers and their immigrant counterparts. It seeks an unspecified amount in damages, including money the U.S. workers say they were shorted because of the uneven pay scale.

The Associated Press left messages by phone and email with Pitts Farms seeking comment about the lawsuit. There was no immediate response by Thursday afternoon.

Four of the plaintiffs  Andrew Johnson, Wesley Reed, Gregory Strong and Richard Strong  said they did agricultural work from February through November and Pitts Farm Partnership usually paid them the minimum wage of $7.25 an hour, with $8.25 an hour for weekend work.

Two of the plaintiffs, Stacy Griffin and James Simpson, drove trucks for the farming operation during harvest time, usually from late July or early August through November. The lawsuit said they had been paid $9 an hour since 2018.

The farm paid the white workers from South Africa $9.87 an hour in 2014 and that rate increased most years until it reached $11.83 an hour in 2020, the lawsuit said.

Amal Bouhabib, an attorney for Southern Migrant Legal Services, said the H-2A program allows U.S. farmers to hire foreign workers when no U.S. workers are available.

It does not allow farmers to pay their American workforce less than the foreign workers, or to replace willing and able U.S. workers," Bouhabib said in a news release.

The lawsuit said the Pitts family hired a white supervisor who gave employees their daily duties and had the power to hire and fire workers.

Occasionally, the supervisor used racial slurs, the lawsuit said. Pitts Farms was informed about the supervisors use of racial slurs and did nothing.

The lawsuit said the farm started bringing in white workers from South Africa in 2014, using a placement firm to hire seasonal labor, and that from 2014 to 2020, the farm did not make the same effort to recruit U.S. workers as it did to obtain immigrant workers.

Ty Pinkins of the Mississippi Center for Justice said in the news release that with high unemployment in the Mississippi Delta, it is unacceptable and unlawful" for farmers to hire outside workers when local residents need jobs.

"Unfortunately, this case is emblematic of a disastrous pattern in the South. Our research indicates that farm owners are increasingly abusing the H-2A program and denying opportunities to U.S. workers, Pinkins said. The case also reflects our nations deep, ugly history of exploiting Black labor. For too long, powerful businesses have abused Black Americans for profit.

Mississippi is a largely rural state with poultry, soybeans, timber, cotton and corn as the top agricultural products.

In August 2019, U.S. immigration agents raided seven chicken processing plants in Mississippi and arrested 680 mostly Latino workers in the largest such operation in at least a decade. Two years after the raid, Mississippi Center for Justice said about 230 people had been deported because of previous immigration orders or other causes, and about 400 were awaiting hearings.

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Follow Emily Wagster Pettus on Twitter at http://twitter.com/EWagsterPettus.
A man who killed a New York woman whose body was found in a suitcase that was dumped in Connecticut is remorseful and understands he must serve a long prison sentence, his lawyers said in new court documents.

Javier Da Silva's lawyers filed the documents Wednesday in federal court in White Plains, New York, in a bid for leniency. Da Silva is facing 30 years to life in prison at sentencing, scheduled for Sept. 23.

Da Silva, 26, pleaded guilty last year to kidnapping resulting in death in the killing of his ex-girlfriend, 24-year-old Valerie Reyes, of New Rochelle, New York.

Reyes worked at a bookstore and aspired to become a tattoo artist, co-workers and friends said. Relatives have called for a life sentence for Da Silva.

Da Silva's lawyers, Mark DeMarco and Jason Ser, submitted letters of support from Da Silva's relatives and friends and described him as kind and remorseful.

He understands the significant effect his conduct has and continues to have on Ms. Reyess family and acknowledges that this Court must sentence him to a substantial term of imprisonment, the lawyers wrote.

The U.S. attorneys office for the Southern District of New York declined to comment on Da Silvas sentencing documents Thursday. The office is expected to submit its sentencing recommendation next week.

Messages seeking comment were left with Reyes' relatives.

Da Silva previously admitted that he and Reyes got into a violent fight at her apartment in late January 2019, about nine months after they broke up. During a court hearing last year, he said he bound her feet and arms, put tape over her mouth and put in her in a suitcase while she was still alive.

Da Silva said he dumped the suitcase in a wooded area of Greenwich, where it was found a week after the fight. A medical examiner said Reyes had suffocated and died of homicidal asphyxia.

Da Silva's lawyers said he fled political and economic turmoil in his native Venezuela in 2017 to make a better life for himself in the U.S. He was living in New York City and worked as a short-order cook and cashier at a restaurant when he killed Reyes, according to court documents. Federal authorities say he overstayed his visa and was in the country illegally.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  An apparent loophole in Pennsylvanias mask mandate for schools is making it easier for some students to go to class without having to cover their faces, even as state education regulators sought to make an example of one openly defiant school board.

The state health secretarys order requiring masks to be worn inside K-12 school and child care facilities, which took effect Tuesday, includes an exemption for students who claim it would cause or worsen a medical condition.

But there's no obligation in the masking order for a student to produce a doctors note or other supporting medical documentation. Now some school boards that oppose the statewide mandate  or that have gotten an earful from parents  are allowing students to go unmasked with just a parents signature.

Spot checks by The Associated Press of about 50 school districts on Thursday revealed at least a dozen around the state  from huge suburban school systems outside Philadelphia to rural districts in the west  are using exemption forms that don't require a medical professional's signature, making it easy for parents to opt out on behalf of their children.

Boards need to make local decisions as to what is best, and those local decisions should give as much power to parents as possible, said Eric Winter, an attorney who has been advising parents and individual school board members. This is a way to give them the control to do it.

The Wolf administration flatly rejected that approach. The Health Department said in a lengthy statement to AP late Thursday that any district doing this is not in compliance." It said districts should determine eligibility in accordance with federal disability laws and require the same medical documentation they would normally require.

There are exceptions to the masking order, but a parents opposition to the order is not one of them, the statement said.

While most districts are complying with the letter of the mask mandate, the Tamaqua Area School Board in Schuylkill County is openly flouting it by keeping face coverings optional.

The board's recalcitrance brought a stern rebuke from state regulators.

Noe Ortega, the state education secretary, warned of various consequences if Tamaqua board members do not reverse course and require students to be masked. They could face fines, civil lawsuits, canceled liability insurance policies and even referral to federal civil rights enforcers, said Ortega, who accused Tamaqua of flagrantly violating the masking order.

Ortega's letter to the board, dated Sept. 8, was obtained by The Associated Press on Thursday. The district's solicitor declined comment. A message was sent to the school board president seeking comment.

Tamaqua is the only district to have received such a letter, said Kendall Alexander, spokesperson for the state Education Department.

Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf said last week that a universal, statewide order was necessary to help combat a statewide surge in COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths. He said most of the state's 500 school districts had not imposed their own mask mandates.

But requiring children to mask up in school  for a second academic year  has stoked fierce debate. Some parents argue masks are necessary to help tamp down spread and keep schools open for in-person learning. Others contend masks make it hard for their children to breathe and are tantamount to child abuse, and say the decision is theirs alone to make.

In the Hollidaysburg Area School District in Blair County, whose board voted Wednesday night to use an exemption form that requires only a parents signature, parents demanded flexibility on masking.

This may be our last chance to stop what seems to be a never-ending obsession to force masks on our children, resident Steve Link told the board members.

Sheryl Imler, a retired elementary teacher who taught in the district more than 30 years, argued that masks are a small sacrifice to help control the coronavirus.

I'm disturbed by the number of people willing to falsify a form simply to get their child out of wearing a mask," said Imler, now a substitute teacher. "You're telling your child it's OK to lie about something if you don't like what the rules say.

The Central York School Board, which has expressed staunch opposition to the statewide masking order, offers parents a simple Google form for exemptions. The board believes that school districts should be locally controlled and that parents are the best judge of their childrens medical and mental well-being, the board said.

Nearly identical language was used by some of the other districts that are giving parents the right to assert medical exemptions without a doctors sign-off.

Olivia Pituch, 17, a senior at Central York School District, said most students are not masking up. In her homeroom, she was one of only two students students wearing a mask this week.

She wasn't happy about it.

I want to get rid of the pandemic as much as anyone, and in my opinion, the best way to ensure the pandemic ... gets pushed down to a very manageable level" is by mandating masks, Pituch said in a phone interview. I feel like it should definitely be necessary unless you have a doctors note saying otherwise."

The state Education Department has said it does not track compliance with the state masking order. But most of the roughly 50 districts in the AP review said on their websites that masks are mandatory. Some do not readily advertise the exemptions in the state masking order. Others do, but require doctors notes or other medical documentation.

The medical exemption provision in the Health Department's masking order is similar to the one that was in effect for the 2020-21 school year. But masking in schools was not the highly contentious issue it is now. In York County, a hotbed of anti-mask sentiment, the South Western School Board abruptly adjourned an emergency meeting on masking Wednesday night after audience members refused to cover their faces. Board members left the stage as parents yelled and shouted.

Easier-to-obtain exemptions do not necessarily translate into mask avoidance. Laurel School District in Lawrence County does not require a doctor's note, but Superintendent Leonard Rich said Thursday the statewide mandate has greatly increased mask wearing in his schools to perhaps 75%. Prior to the (Health Department) order, masks were virtually nonexistent, he said.

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Rubinkam reported from northeastern Pennsylvania.
GREENSBORO, N.C. (AP)  Police have apprehended a man wanted for homicides in two North Carolina cities over three days, according to a news release Thursday.

The Greensboro Police Department said Malek Anthony Moore, 29, was arrested on a local street without incident after receiving a phone call from a resident. Moore is being held without bond in the Guilford County jail and it wasn't immediately known if he has an attorney.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  The U.S. Defense Department is sending a 20-member military medical team to Arkansas to help expand the state's hospital capacity in response to a surge in COVID-19 cases, Gov. Asa Hutchinson announced Wednesday.

Hutchinson said the team of 14 nurses, four physicians and two respiratory therapists would be sent to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences hospital in Little Rock.
ELK POINT, S.D. (AP)  A man accused of killing four people in Missouri, including a mother and her 11-year-old daughter, has been found dead in South Dakota, according to sheriff's officials.

J.T. McLean, 45, was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound early Thursday in a car parked at a motel near Dakota Dunes, Union County Sheriff Dan Limoges said. The U.S. Marshals Service says McLean had family in the area.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  A commission discussing how to spend federal COVID-19 relief dollars is recommending Montana's governor approve $22 million for job training and retraining programs to increase the workforce as businesses struggle to find enough employees.

The Department of Labor and Industry proposed $10 million for rapid job retraining and $2 million to clear up a backlog of job training for people with disabilities. The Department of Commerce recommended spending $10 million for training grants to businesses. The Economic Transformation, Stabilization and Workforce Development Advisory Commission unanimously approved all the recommendations Wednesday.

Gov. Greg Gianforte has final say on the spending.

The labor department recommended spending $4 million over the next two years through existing job training programs as well as workforce and education programs for people receiving public assistance.

An additional $6 million would be used to create up to 10 short-term training programs, like one in Missoula where potential employees at a technology consulting company go through a 12-week course at the University of Montana.

The project will identify and create programs at universities to train workers for in-demand jobs that pay $50,000 a year or could lead to jobs that pay that much, officials said. The types of jobs are still to be determined.

The money would be used to develop a curriculum, cover the cost of training and subsidize a wage for those doing on-the-job training, said Scott Eychner, administrator of the Workforce Services Division within the Department of Labor and Industry.

The Montana Chamber of Commerce plans to partner in the effort by surveying businesses about what kind of skilled employees they would need to grow their businesses.

State, education and business interests said they believed the programs would continue even after the federal funding ends.

Separately, the labor department said it has $1.75 million in federal funds this fiscal year to help retrain dislocated workers, including about 100 people whose jobs will end when a sawmill in St. Regis closes this fall.

The labor department proposed spending an additional $2 million in relief funds on job training for people with disabilities, saying there are 1,300 people awaiting assistance through vocational rehabilitation programs. The funding would allow the state to hire 10 temporary staffers for two years to help work through the backlog and increase the number of available workers.

The Department of Commerce requested $10 million be spent on matching grants to help businesses pay to train new and existing full-time workers for jobs that would pay at least $14.88 an hour.

Additional incentives would be provided for businesses that train employees in high-demand sectors for jobs that pay $24 an hour or more, said Wayne Johnston, chief of the agency's Business Assistance Bureau.

Union groups urged the commission to ensure some of the money is used to train workers to complete infrastructure projects  such as broadband, road and sewer work  funded by other federal relief money.

In other business, Eychner told the commission that the demand for the state's return-to-work bonuses was not as high as expected. The state has paid out nearly $930,000 to 774 people, with 3,600 more applications pending.

Eychner told the commission that it's clear the agency won't be paying out all of the $15 million set aside for the $1,200 bonuses, which could have provided return-to-work incentives for up to 12,500 workers.

The program offers the bonuses for people who were receiving unemployment as of May 1, returned to work between May 4 and Oct. 31 and worked at least four weeks for a single employer. Gianforte announced the incentives as Montana stopped paying an extra $300 weekly unemployment benefit.

The governor's office did not respond to a request for information on what he might suggest doing with the leftover money.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama lawmakers on Wednesday began reviewing the latest prison construction proposal, a plan that would use a portion of the states virus relief funds to start building three new lockups.

The proposal calls for three new prisons  at least a 4,000-bed prison in Elmore County with enhanced space for medical, mental and other health care needs; another at least 4,000-bed prison in Escambia County; and a womens prison  as well as renovations to existing facilities. The projects would be done in phases and partly funded with $400 million from the states $2.2 billion share of American Rescue Plan funds, a key lawmaker who drafted the proposal said.

Proponents said the construction would be a partial solution to the states long-standing prison problems, which have drawn the scrutiny of federal regulators, but one lawmaker said it would put old problems in new buildings unless the state made additional reforms.

The U.S. Department of Justice has sued Alabama over conditions in the state's prisons, saying it is failing to protect male inmates from inmate-on-inmate violence and excessive force at the hands of prison staff.

Its a part of the puzzle, said Rep. Steve Clouse, the House budget chairman who worked on the proposal. It will help us with overcrowding, to provide a safer environment, said Clouse, a Republican from Ozark, who added that safer facilities should help the prison system recruit and retain employees.

Lawmakers looked at the proposal in meetings this week ahead of a possible special session on prison construction. Clouse said the initial reaction was positive, but they will be taking a firmer vote count over the weekend to gauge support.

However, Rep. Chris England, a Tuscaloosa Democrat, said new prisons will not take care of the immediate humanitarian crisis in state prisons. England said additional reforms are needed to address staffing, overcrowding and violence.

In my opinion, until you deal with the lack of leadership in the department and the problems at Pardon and Paroles, you are just making new building and putting old problems in them, England said.

About a dozen friends and family members of inmates protested outside the Alabama Department of Corrections last week over conditions in state prisons that they argued will not be solved by new buildings.

Angela Wells said her son died last October after being stabbed by another inmate at Easterling Correctional Facility.

When he first went there he told me, Momma, Im scared. I told him just keep on praying, thats all you can do, Wells said.

The new plan comes after Gov. Kay Iveys plan to lease new prisons from private corrections companies fell apart when financers withdrew. Clouse said the state would own the facilities under the new plan instead of leasing them. He said using $400 million in Rescue Funds, as well as $150 million in general fund dollars, would allow the state to build the first facility without borrowing money and paying interest. The bill authorizes a bond issue of up to $785 million to pay for the rest of the construction.

This whole plan, I think, is a win-win-win for the taxpayers, Clouse said.

Ivey sent lawmakers a letter this week asking them to consider the proposal to address the states long-standing, yet urgent, prison infrastructure challenges.

I do not use the word urgently lightly, Ivey wrote, noting the state faces the possibility of federal court orders unless the problems are addressed.
HOUSTON (AP)  A man suspected of killing a family of four and setting their Houston home on fire fatally shot himself as officers tried to arrest him Thursday, police said.

Firefighters discovered the bodies of a man and woman and two children Sunday morning after extinguishing a blaze at a southwest Houston home.

All four had been shot in the head, according to autopsies conducted by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. Authorities have not released the names of the victims. Police have said the adults were in their 50s and the children were 10 to 13 years old.

The fire might have been an attempt to destroy evidence at the scene, police said.

Investigators identified a 23-year-old man who was the son of the woman who was killed as the only suspect in the killings, said Houston Police Assistant Chief Yasar Bashir. Authorities have not released the suspect's name.

On Thursday, officers tracked down a truck that had been missing from the familys home and found the suspect inside. Police believe the man had been sleeping inside the truck but when officers approached him, he was awake, Bashir said.

As officers neared the truck and began to give the man instructions, he shot himself once in the head, Bashir said.

The man was taken to a hospital, where he died.

Police are still trying to determine why the man was parked where they found him, less than four miles from the scene of Sundays killings.

Investigators believe a weapon found at the scene on Thursday is similar to the one used to kill the family, but additional testing needs to be done to confirm if it is the same weapon, Bashir said.

A specific motive has not been determined in the shooting of the family.

We should not take family violence lightly, Bashir said. I think its really preventable if you reach out, get some additional help.

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Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  The Republican-dominated commission charged with redrawing the maps of Ohio's legislative districts voted along partisan lines Thursday to use a proposed GOP map as the starting point for three days of public testimony.

The 5-2 vote set up a breakneck schedule that in theory will see the commission approve a final version of the map Sept. 15, although Thursday's meeting made it clear that Democrats and Republicans on the Ohio Redistricting Commission have a lot of work to do before then.

Even Ohio's GOP elections chief, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, said the map introduced Thursday is far from perfect, though he voted for it  calling it a work in progress  to get the revision process started.

I think it needs substantial work, said LaRose, a redistricting commission member.

The commission set hearings Sunday in Dayton, Monday in Cleveland and Tuesday in Columbus before the Sept. 15 vote.

Ohio voters in 2015 and 2018 approved constitutional amendments that created a new process for drawing both state legislative and congressional district maps this year and set up the independent commission.

The commission's goal is producing a map that represents as fairly as possible the political makeup of the state. An imbalanced Legislature  meaning one that contains members of either political party whose numbers dont reflect actual voter preference  can skew the creation of laws on everything from abortion to gun control to school funding and energy policy.

Republicans in Ohio currently have supermajorities in the House and Senate, controlling 64 of 99 seats in the House and 25 of 33 seats in the Senate. Some redistricting analyses say the divide should be closer to 55-44 in the house and 19-14 in the Senate.

Creating a 10-year map requires a majority vote of the commission, including both Democrats. Creating a 4-year map requires a simple majority of the commission without both Democrats.

Both LaRose and GOP state Auditor Keith Faber, also a commission member, said Thursday they favor a 10-year map and pledged to work with Democrats through the weekend to achieve that goal.

The redistricting commission missed its Sept. 1 deadline, triggering an extension until the middle of the month. Republican commission members blamed the delayed release of 2020 Census figures, which arrived earlier this month  more than four months after the April 1 date on which they normally arrive, because of the impact of the coronavirus.

Senate Democrats submitted their proposed map last week.

The map approved by the commission Thursday afternoon was unveiled just hours earlier, based on work done by House and Senate Republicans. The GOP map reduces the number of counties and cities split between districts as compared to the current maps created in 2011, Ray DiRossi, an aide with the Senate Republican caucus, told the commission.

DiRossi said the map complies with requirements for legislative districts laid out in the Ohio Constitution. Under questioning from Rep. Emilia Sykes of Akron, the top House Democrat, he acknowledged that the GOP map did not use racial or demographic data at the request of legislative leaders.

Sykes and her father, Democratic Sen. Vernon Sykes, the commission co-chair, voted against moving forward with the map.

Reviewing it, it seems that the partisan proportions are worse than what they are existing today, Vernon Sykes said.

Witnesses on Thursday chided the commission for rushing the process, including calling Thursday's meeting with only 24 hours' notice and then not providing a copy of the GOP map ahead of time. They also urged the commission to allow for more input from the public and experts.

The process to date has made me and many others wonder whether this will be a fair mapping assessment and completion, or whether it will be reduced to backroom antics, and more gerrymandered, unfair, embarrassing and undemocratic districts, Mindy Hedges, a resident of Radnor in Delaware County, told the commission.

The panel held nine public hearings around the state earlier this month looking for input on a new map.

A few witnesses defended the maps, saying that its fair that Republicans are favored because they make up a majority of Ohio voters.

But an Associated Press analysis found that Republican politicians used census data after election victories 10 years ago to draw voting districts that gave them a greater political advantage in more states than either party had in the past 50 years. Voters in Ohio have some of the nations most gerrymandered maps, the AP found.
BERLIN (AP)  Investigators carried out searches at the German finance and justice ministries on Thursday in a probe of suspected obstruction of justice by employees of a unit of the country's customs service that fights money laundering.

The searches come just over two weeks ahead of a parliamentary election in which Finance Minister Olaf Scholz is running for chancellor, and his center-left Social Democrats are leading polls. The justice minister is also a member of his party.

Prosecutors in the western city of Osnabrueck said they have been investigating since last year because indications of possible money laundering from banks to the Financial Intelligence Unit, or FIU, weren't passed on to police and judicial authorities.

They said in a statement that the trigger for the probe was a report from a bank to the FIU in June 2018 on payments to Africa totaling more than 1 million euros ($1.18 million), which the bank suspected had to do with the weapons and drugs trade and terror financing. Prosecutors said the FIU took note of that report but didn't forward it to law enforcement authorities.

We don't know at present why the data was not passed on  it might just have been because of overwork but it could also have some other background, which we now want to try to find out, prosecutor Alexander Retemeyer told n-tv television. He added that the main aim was to determine who was responsible and so to identify suspects. At present, the investigation is directed against persons unknown.

Documents previously seized from the FIU showed that there was extensive communication between it and the ministries that were searched, the prosecutors' statement said.

They said they are looking into whether the leadership of or other officials at the ministries and elsewhere were involved in decisions by the customs department. It will take a few weeks to analyze documents that investigators secured, they added.

The finance ministry said the suspicion of wrongdoing was not directed against its own employees. It said that prosecutors' priority is to identify employees at FIU's Cologne headquarters and to find out to what extent the unit's risk-oriented approach was discussed and secured from a legal point of view. It said that the ministry is giving its full support to authorities.

The ministry said that Scholz, who became finance minister in 2018, has reinforced the FIU with extra staff and powers, and that its head was replaced that year.

Politicians from the opposition Greens and Free Democrats, however, criticized the state of the FIU and of financial oversight under Scholz.

The justice ministry also said that the investigation wasn't directed against its employees and that it was supporting the probe.
PENSACOLA, Fla. (AP)  A 34-year-old chief petty officer at Naval Air Station Pensacola is accused of locking her husband in their garage and fatally shooting him as he spoke to a 911 dispatcher, officials said.

Bree Kuhn of Gulf Breeze was arrested Wednesday night and charged with first-degree premeditated murder in the death of Collin James Turner, 34. The couple's children were inside the house during the shooting.

Its just a sad case  a very sad case  of people arguing, and then, it gets to this point, Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson said during a news conference Thursday.

Johnson said the couple had argued about their children.

He wanted to take the kids out of state, and she didnt want to go, Johnson said.

Deputies went to the home about 12:53 p.m. Wednesday after the couple got into a heated argument and Kuhn called 911. They found no evidence of a physical altercation and left.

A second call came in about 5 p.m.

He called that time, Johnson said. Same thing  another argument.

Responding deputies found nothing alarming and left again.

At 6:22 p.m., Turner called 911 again.

While on the phone, he says that hes locked in the garage, Johnson said. During the phone call with dispatch, you hear gunshots. He states, basically, She just shot me. Then, you hear three more.

When deputies arrived at the home four minutes later, they found Turner dead and Kuhn in a state of shock, the sheriff said.

I cant go into what she said or anything like that, Johnson said. But to put it the best way, Id say (she was in) shock, probably. Youre a Navy chief one day, and the next day, youre in jail.

He said two children were placed in the custody of the Florida Department of Children and Families, while a third child was turned over to the biological father.

Kuhn was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail. Jail records didn't list a lawyer who could speak on her behalf.
UNITED NATIONS -- The United Nations development agency says Afghanistan is teetering on the brink of universal poverty which could become a reality in the middle of next year unless urgent efforts are made to bolster local communities and their economies.

It said the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has put 20 years of steady economic gains at risk.

The U.N. Development Program outlined four scenarios for Afghanistan following the Talibans Aug. 15 assumption of power that predict the countrys GDP will decline between 3.6% and 13.2% in the next fiscal year starting in June 2022, depending on the intensity of the crisis and how much the world engages with the Taliban. That is in sharp contrast to the expected 4% growth in GDP before the fall of the government.

Afghanistan pretty much faces universal poverty by the middle of next year, Kanni Wignaraja, UNDPs Asia-Pacific Director, told a news conference Thursday launching its 28-page assessment. Thats where were heading -- its 97-98% (poverty rate) no matter how you work these projections.

Currently, the poverty rate is 72% and Wignaraja pointed to many development gains after the Taliban were ousted from power in 2001: Per capita income more than doubled in the last 20 years, life expectancy at birth was extended by about nine years, the number of years of schooling rose from six to 10, and we got women into university.

But she said Afghanistan now faces a humanitarian and development disaster resulting from political instability, frozen foreign reserves, a collapsed public finance system, a crush on local banking because of this, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

UNITED NATIONS -- The United States has a message for the Taliban: If it lives up to all its commitments, brings greater stability to Afghanistan and the region, demonstrates widespread inclusion, and protects the gains of the last 20 years well work with it.

But U.S. deputy ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, who delivered the message at a U.N. Security Council meeting on Thursday, stressed that any legitimacy and support will have to be earned.

He said the standards the international community has set are clear and include facilitating safe passage for Afghans and foreign nationals who want to leave Afghanistan and respecting the countrys obligations under international humanitarian law including those related to the protection of civilians.

Were watching closely to see that those standards are met, he said.

DeLaurentis told the council that following the U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan needs the United Nations and the U.N. political mission in the country more than ever.

He said the United States remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and as the countrys largest humanitarian donor it is helping partners on the ground provide assistance, but the needs are vast.

With the diplomatic footprint in the country reduced, DeLaurentis said, the U.N. has a vitally important role to play not only in coordinating aid but in preventing human rights violations and abuses and pursuing accountability for those that have occurred, and in protecting children and civilians.

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BUCHAREST, Romania  Romanias foreign ministry says it has brought 139 Afghan citizens to its capital of Bucharest after initially evacuating them from Afghanistan to Pakistan.

Foreign affairs minister Bogdan Aurescu said Thursday that the evacuations were extremely complicated missions and that the arrival of the Afghans was a very emotional moment.

Romanian officials have said they have evacuated a total of 156 Afghans. Some had worked with Romanian troops in Afghanistan and the others are students with scholarships in Romania, journalists and human rights activists.

Romania has also repatriated 49 Romanian citizens and helped evacuate seven citizens of some allied states since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.

Officials say eight Romanian citizens remain in Afghanistan and so far have not asked to be repatriated.

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UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Afghanistan is urging the world to unite to prevent the economic collapse of the country, to address fears the Talibans Islamic state may spread to its neighbors and to fight terrorism.

Deborah Lyons warns that the Taliban have visibly welcomed and sheltered al-Qaida members and that Islamic State extremists remain active and could gain strength.

She told the U.N. Security Council on Thursday that it will have to decide what steps to take regarding many of the 33 members of the Taliban government who are on the U.N. sanctions blacklist, including the prime minister, the two deputy prime ministers and foreign minister.

Lyons says the humanitarian crisis is worsening and there is a looming crisis caused by donors freezing billions of dollars in Afghan assets. She says the fund freezes can cause a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger and may spark a refugee exodus and set the country back for generations.

She says ways must be found to provide humanitarian relief on a huge scale and quickly allow money to flow to Afghanistan to prevent a total breakdown of the economy and social order while creating safeguards to ensure the money is not misused by the Taliban authorities.

In Lyons words, The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender and counterterrorism perspective.

Lyons says that despite the Talibans statements of a general amnesty, the U.N. has received credible allegations of reprisal killings, the detention of officials who worked for previous administrations, house-to-house searches by Taliban who have seized property particularly in Kabul, and restrictions on women working and limitations to girls education in some regions.

Lyons says U.N. premises for the most part have been respected but its national staff has faced increasing harassment and intimidation.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistans foreign minister says the world community should not take steps that risk an economic collapse in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Quereshi on Thursday urged the international community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert a worsening humanitarian crisis.

His appeal came two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. At a news conference in Islamabad alongside Qatari counterpart Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qureshi did not name any single country. But Qureshi said no strings should be attached to humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.

The Taliban government currently does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve. These reserves were blocked amid last months political turmoil in Afghanistan.

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WASHINGTON  U.S. veterans groups hope that news that private evacuation flights are starting up again for Western citizens in Kabul means Afghans considered at risk for past work with Americans will soon be able to leave again as well.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers, veterans groups and other American organizations and individuals have been pressing the Biden administration to do more to get out those vulnerable Afghans. They include thousands of Afghans who used to work with the U.S. military, and are eligible for what are known as Special Immigrant Visas.

James Miervaldis, a spokesman with a veterans group, No One Left Behind working on behalf of those Afghans, called the news, Awesome. Well start getting SIVs booked up.

Miervaldis said he had yet to hear a commitment from officials to get Afghan allies on the flights out as well as citizens. But veterans had talked with Secretary of State Antony Blinken last Friday, and let him know that the organizations working to get Afghans out have committed $2 million for commercial air fare out of Afghanistan.

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MOSCOW  Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow is interested in peace and stability in Afghanistan and in stopping the exodus of Afghans from the country, which has been triggered by the Talibans swift power grab last month.

Putin spoke at a summit on Thursday via videoconference to officials from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. He told BRICS leaders that Russia, just like its BRICS partners, consistently supports the establishment of the long-awaited peace and stability on the Afghan land.

Putin said Russia is interested in stopping the flow of migration" and wants Afghans to live peaceful and dignified lives in their motherland.

Moscow, which fought a 10-year war in Afghanistan that ended with the Soviet troops withdrawal in 1989, has made a diplomatic comeback as a mediator over the past few years, reaching out to the feuding Afghan factions, including the Taliban  even though Russia has labeled them a terrorist organization.

Unlike many other countries, Russia hasnt announced a pledge to take in Afghan refugees in the wake of the Talibans takeover of power. Putin has previous said that Moscow doesnt want militants appearing (in Russia) again under the guise of refugees.

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MORE ON AFGHANISTAN:

 Taliban name caretaker Cabinet that pays homage to old guard

 US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression

 Blinken and Austin to visit Gulf to address postwar stresses

 Taliban say they took Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province

 Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan

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ISLAMABAD  CIA Director William Burns has met with Pakistans powerful army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

In a statement, the military said regional security and developments in Afghanistan were discussed during the meeting Thursday. It didn't elaborate.

Pakistan remains committed to cooperate with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Afghan people," the statement said.

Burns thanked Pakistan for its role in the evacuation operations from Afghanistan and pledged further improvements in diplomatic cooperation with Pakistan.

Burns also met with Pakistans intelligence chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hamid, the statement said.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistan says Qatars foreign minister will arrive in Pakistans capital of Islamabad to discuss the latest situation in Afghanistan.

In a statement, Pakistans Foreign Ministry said Qatari chief diplomat Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani during his day-long visit Thursday will meet with Pakistans foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other top officials.

It said Pakistan and Qatar enjoy close, cordial ties. The two countries closely collaborate on regional and global issues of common interest, the statement said.

The development comes two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. The Taliban maintain a political office in Doha.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  The interior ministry of the new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of demonstrations that have brought heavy-handed assaults on protesters.

The minister has issued an order to end all protests in the country  unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.

Its unlikely the women who have been leading near daily protest demanding their rights from the countrys hardline Islamic rulers will be allowed to protest under the new rules. In the words of the ministrys statement: It is announced to all citizens not to attempt at the present time to hold any demonstrations under any name whatsoever.

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KABUL, Afghanistan  Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has taken to Twitter to say his flight from Kabul on Aug. 15 was done to save Afghanistans capital from bloodshed. He says his security personnel advised the secret departure, which opened the gates of the city to a Taliban takeover.

Ghani also denies widespread allegations of corruption as well as charges that he left the country with millions of dollars. He says there should be an independent investigation.

Ghanis sudden departure has been widely criticized both in Afghanistan and abroad. Washington blamed Ghanis flight and the governments collapse for a Taliban takeover ahead of a negotiated deal.

Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.
PHOENIX -- Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says President Joe Biden is overreaching with his new requirement for employees of large businesses to be vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19.

The Republican governor said the Biden rule requires pushback and response but declined to say how the state would respond.

Ducey has encouraged people to get vaccinated but has worked aggressively to block mandates of all kinds, including for vaccines and face coverings.

Ducey said the Biden administration rule will lead people to quit their jobs, leaving businesses and schools in a lurch. ___

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 In COVID-slammed Idaho, schools risk buckling hospitals

 WHO: Africas already thin vaccine supply to drop by 25%

 President Biden to lay out plans to boost vaccine uptake

 Long COVID can affect children and teens as well as adults

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 See AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles board of education has voted to require students 12 and older to be vaccinated against the coronavirus if they attend in-person classes in the nations second-largest school district.

The boards vote Thursday makes Los Angeles by far the largest of a very small number of districts with a vaccine requirement. Nearby Culver City imposed a similar policy last month for its 7,000 students. LA has about 630,000 students.

Under the plan for Los Angeles, students 12 and up who participate in sports and other extracurricular activities need to be fully vaccinated by the end of October. Others would have until Dec. 19.

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MINNEAPOLIS __ More than 100 Minnesota schools from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade reported infections last week as students returned to classrooms across the state, according to a weekly COVID-19 report released by the Minnesota Department of Health on Thursday.

The figure is up from previous weeks but remains a fraction of the number of infections reported in schools during a surge in virus cases statewide late last year.

Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said during a Thursday briefing that officials remain concerned about the growth in cases in school and childcare settings and the broader implications that has for transmission in communities as students go back to school. Malcolm stressed vaccinations for all people 12 and older, as well as masking for all students, teachers, staff and visitors regardless of vaccination status, among other mitigation methods.

The decisions we make as individuals dont just affect us individually, they have ripple effects that go deep into the community, she said. We do know, all of us, how important in-person learning is for students and we need to take the right actions to make that in-person learning possible and safe.

Just over 72% of Minnesotans 16 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and more than 68% have been fully inoculated as of Tuesday, according to a state dashboard.

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LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said President Joe Bidens order that private businesses require employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is not the right answer for boosting vaccination rates.

I have been consistent in the freedom of businesses to require their employees to be vaccinated, and I have opposed the government from saying businesses cannot exercise that freedom, Hutchinson, a Republican who chairs the National Governors Association, said in a statement. The same principle should protect the private sector from government overreach that requires them to vaccinate all employees.

Some of Arkansas largest employers are already requiring workers to get vaccinated.

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HELENA, Mont.  Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte is calling a new vaccination mandate that could affect as many as 100 million Americans unlawful and un-American.

Gianforte, a Republican, said in a Tweet on Thursday that he is committed to protecting Montanans freedoms and liberties against this gross federal overreach.

Montana is the only state in the U.S. with a law that makes it illegal for private employers to require vaccines as a condition for employment. That new requirement appears to clash with parts of the mandate, which tells all private businesses with 100 or more employees to require them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or get tested weekly for the respiratory virus.

The Montana law was passed earlier this year by the Republican-dominated state Legislature despite pushback from the states hospital association and other medical groups straining under the weight of a new surge in COVID-19 infections.

A Montana Hospital Association spokesperson said in an email on Thursday that their legal counsel will evaluate the new mandate to determine how to comply with federal and state law.

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JACKSON, Miss.  Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves sharply criticized President Joe Bidens announcement that employers with at least 100 workers would have to require the workers to be vaccinated or tested weekly for COVID-19.

The President has no authority to require that Americans inject themselves because of their employment at a private business, Reeves wrote on Twitter. The vaccine itself is life-saving, but this unconstitutional move is terrifying. This is still America, and we still believe in freedom from tyrants.

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OLYMPIA, Wash. - Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday that starting next week, the states indoor mask mandate will be expanded to include outdoor events with 500 or more attendees, regardless of vaccination status.

The new requirement  which takes effect Monday  comes days after a similar outdoor mask mandates took effect in the states two most populous counties, King and Pierce, due to rising COVID-19 cases.

An indoor mask mandate, regardless of vaccination status, has been in place in Washington since Aug. 23. Last month, Oregon was the first state to reinstitute a statewide mask requirement for outdoor public areas where people are close together.

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WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden has announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant.

Speaking at the White House Thursday, Biden sharply criticized the roughly 80 million Americans who are not yet vaccinated, despite months of availability and incentives.

Weve been patient. But our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us, he said, all but biting off his words. The unvaccinated minority can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

The expansive rules mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans. And the roughly 17 million workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.

Biden is also signing an executive order to require vaccination for employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government  with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.

Biden announced the new requirements in a Thursday afternoon address from the White House as part of a new action plan to address the latest rise in coronavirus cases and the stagnating pace of COVID-19 shots that has raised doubts among the public over his handling of the pandemic.

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HARTFORD  Connecticut officials expressed concerns about inconsistent mask wearing and people shunning coronavirus vaccines after 37 people became infected in outbreaks at a summer camp, group home and a party.

Gov. Ned Lamont and acting state heath Commissioner Deidre Gifford said most of the people who became infected were not vaccinated and some of them spread the virus to relatives who did not go to those locations. All three outbreaks happened last month. Officials did not release the locations of the three outbreaks.

Also Thursday, the state Department of Correction reported that a 78-year-old state prison inmate died after contracting the coronavirus for a second time.

The male prisoner was detained at the MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield and died early Wednesday morning. Officials said he had several underlying health issues and had recovered from his first coronavirus infection last December.

The inmate, who was serving a 40-year sentence for sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor, was the first state prisoner to die from COVID-19 since January and the 20th inmate to die during the pandemic.

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BOSTON  The U.S. Education Department has announced a new grant program for schools that get state funding withheld for defying state mask policies.

The measure aims to push back against governors in Iowa, South Carolina and other states attempting to block schools from requiring masks among students and teachers. Some states, including Florida, have withheld the salaries of school leaders who have required masks in defiance of state orders.

Those schools will soon be able to apply for federal grants under Project SAFE to make up for any money lost due to implementing public health measures backed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona says school officials should be thanked, not punished, for taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and this program will allow them to continue that critical work of keeping students safe.

The money will come from an existing pool of federal funding that the Education Department can use on a range of student safety initiatives. The agency says it will invite districts to apply in the coming weeks.

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ROME  Italy has sent two vaccination teams to the Sicilian island of Lampedusa to vaccinate newly arrived migrants against the coronavirus.

Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese has decreed that migrants arriving in the country must be inoculated. Italys virus czar, Gen. Francesco Figliuolo, said in a statement that starting Thursday two teams began work on Lampedusa alongside local health authorities and Italian Red Cross to administer the vaccines.

Lampedusa, a tiny island closer to Africa than the Italian mainland, is one of the main destinations of African-based migrants who pay Libyan or Tunisian smugglers to cross the Mediterranean in hopes of reaching Europe.

Some 40,000 migrants have arrived in Italy by boat so far this year, twice as many as in 2020 and nine times as many as 2019.

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ANKARA, Turkey  Turkeys health minister says the countrys first locally developed COVID-19 vaccine is close to seeking approval for emergency use.

Fahrettin Koca tells reporters that the nation aims to start mass producing Turkovac, which uses an inactivated virus technology, in October.

The vaccine was developed by Erciyes University. Late-stage trials began in June. Turkey also hopes to export Turkovac to other countries.

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LANSING, Mich.  Michigan health and business officials are renewing a plea for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, citing hospital workforce shortages, unnecessary deaths and concerns that end-of-summer travel and the return to school could fuel a surge in cases.

About 59% of Michigan residents 12 and older have been fully vaccinated, and 65% have gotten at least one dose. Those figures trail behind the national rates of 62% and 73%.

Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, says hospitals are near capacity as coronavirus caseloads rise and high numbers of non-COVID-19 patients seek care they delayed earlier in the pandemic.

Peters says that our staffing is stressed to a level that we have not seen previously, and one of the ways to prevent that is to get the vaccine.

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HONOLULU  An officer with the Honolulu Police Department says he has been suspended without pay and faces termination for not complying with the citys COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Cpl. Mark Kutsy was on patrol this week when he was pulled off duty and forced to turn in his gun and badge.

Kutsy says hes willing to submit to weekly testing. But Honolulu is in the only county in Hawaii not giving an option to test in lieu of vaccination.

State workers also have a vaccination mandate, but they can undergo weekly tests instead.

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FRANKFORT, Ky.  Gov. Andy Beshear says just 90 adult intensive care beds are available in Kentucky as strained hospitals confront the surging delta variant of the coronavirus.

Beshear says that's a pandemic low, and that means if you get COVID and need to be hospitalized, there has never been a greater likelihood that theres not a bed for you or your family members, or your friends.

Beshear adds that 60 of 96 hospitals in the state currently face a critical staffing shortage. The limited number of ICU beds also will put those in non-virus related emergencies in danger of not receiving care, such as car crash victims.

In the governor's words, Our hospital situation has never been more dire in my lifetime than it is right now.

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BRUSSELS  Belgiums vaccination task force says people with a weakened immune system will be offered an extra dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines next week.

The task force says the measure is for people over 12 who have reduced immunity due to a condition or a medical treatment. That includes cases of congenital immune disorders, cancer treatments or chronic dialysis.

The task force says their bodies are less responsive to the vaccine and an additional dose is recommended for optimal protection against severe disease progression, hospitalization or even death.

Up to 400,000 people among Belgium's 11.5 million inhabitants will be eligible for an extra shot.

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COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  The Sri Lankan health ministry inoculate young people ages 12 to 18 against COVID-19 soon, saying the move will help reopen the schools, which have been closed for more than six months.

Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella says about 2 million students will be vaccinated and classes for grades 7 to 13 could begin when that is finished.

The government imposed a lockdown Aug. 20 that runs through Sept. 13. The health ministry says 62% of the population above age 20 is vaccinated.

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WASHINGTON  Researchers say federal government data significantly understated the ravages of COVID-19 in nursing homes last year.

Official numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are missing about 12% of cases among nursing home residents and 14% of deaths. Thats according to new estimates published Thursday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Network Open, by a Harvard researcher and her team.

It translates to thousands of missing data points, suggesting more than 118,300 nursing home residents died of COVID-19 last year, or about 30% of all coronavirus deaths nationally.

The researchers attributed the data holes to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services not requiring nursing homes to report cases and deaths until May 2020, well into the pandemic. The new estimates rely on numbers from states that required fuller reporting.
JERUSALEM (AP)  For nearly two decades, Zakaria Zubeidi has been an object of fascination for Israelis and Palestinians alike, who have seen his progression from a child actor to a swaggering militant, to the scarred face of a West Bank theater promoting cultural resistance to Israeli occupation.

Now he has emerged as one of Israel's most wanted fugitives after tunneling out of a high-security prison on Monday with five other Palestinian militants.

Zubeidi, now in his mid-40s, comes from a generation of Palestinians who were children during the first intifada, or uprising against Israel, which erupted in 1987. They lived through a brief period of hope at the height of the peace process, only to take up arms in the far more violent intifada that erupted in 2000, and which claimed the lives of Zubeidi's mother, brother and several comrades.

But even among that cohort, few Palestinian militants had closer ties to Israelis than Zubeidi, who for many years was an even bigger celebrity in Israel than in the Palestinian territories.

To Israelis, he is a notorious terrorist responsible for suicide bombings and shooting attacks that killed civilians. He also is one of the few who regularly gave media interviews.

In many ways, hes the poster kid for Israelis of the Palestinian terror campaign of the second intifada, said Yossi Kuperwasser, a retired general who served in Israeli military intelligence during the uprising. He's a Forrest Gump, sort of. He played all the roles.

Among Palestinians, Zubeidi was just one of several prominent militants of that era, his name having long ago faded from the headlines. Now, he and the other escapees are being hailed as national heroes for staging the biggest breakout from an Israeli prison in decades.

Zubeidi rose to prominence during the second intifada as the leader of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an armed offshoot of the secular Fatah party, in the impoverished Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank.

The camp, which is home to Palestinian refugees from the 1948 war surrounding Israel's creation, was the scene of a major battle with the Israeli army in 2002. A mishandled explosive left a peppering of black scars on Zubeidi's face, and he spent years eluding Israeli authorities.

A far younger Zubeidi appears in the archival footage of Arna's Children, a 2004 documentary about a children's theater founded in the Jenin refugee camp in the late 1980s by Arna Mer-Khamis, an Israeli Jewish activist who married a Palestinian and supported the Palestinian cause.

The film, made by her son Juliano, follows boys from the Jenin refugee camp who joined the theater as children, only to be drawn into the vortex of the second intifada as young men. Of the five core members of the group, only Zubeidi survived. Juliano was gunned down in Jenin in 2011 under mysterious circumstances.

In a 2006 interview with the U.K.'s Sunday Times, Zubeidi traced his militancy back to the death of his mother, Samira, who was killed by an Israeli sniper in 2002. His brother, Taha, was killed shortly thereafter, as were friends and fellow fighters. The theater Mer-Khamis started, which initially met on the roof of Zubeidi's family home, was demolished that year.

Another Israeli woman, Tali Fahima, also had an unlikely cameo in the drama. The pro-Palestinian activist struck up a friendship with Zubeidi during the intifada and met with him in Jenin. Israel arrested her in 2004 and she spent three years in prison for aiding a terrorist organization.

Israeli media speculated the two were lovers  something they both denied. In an interview with Israel's Channel 10 in 2008, Fahima accused Zubeidi of collaborating with Israel's Shin Bet security service after he secured permission to travel from Jenin to the West Bank city of Ramallah for eye surgery.

The intifada had begun to wind down in 2005 after the election of President Mahmoud Abbas, who is committed to resolving the decades-long conflict through negotiations with Israel. He seeks to establish a Palestinian state in the West Bank, Gaza and east Jerusalem, territories Israel seized in the 1967 war.

In 2007, Zubeidi availed himself of a general amnesty for militants from Abbas' Fatah party and joined the Freedom Theater, which Juliano Mer-Khamis had founded the previous year to continue his late mother's legacy.

"We want to take the Palestinian cause to the people through theater, Zubeidi told The Associated Press in 2008. But he never surrendered his weapons to the Palestinian Authority, saying even then that he did not trust the amnesty agreement and feared for his life.

In 2011, Israeli media reported that Israel had revoked Zubeidi's pardon without giving a reason. The Palestinian Authority arrested him the following year after a shooting outside the home of Jenin's governor. Zubeidi was released months later after a widely publicized hunger strike.

He has led a quieter life over the last decade, working on prisoner affairs for the same Palestinian Authority that had jailed him and studying political science at Birzeit University in the West Bank. His relatives say he gave up militant activities long ago.

As long as we are under occupation, no Palestinian will abandon the struggle against the occupation," Zubeidi's brother, Yehia, told The Associated Press. But there are a lot of factors, like age, a decision to take a break.

Israel arrested Zubeidi again in 2019. He was later charged with taking part in two shooting attacks against Israeli buses in the occupied West Bank, in which no one was seriously wounded, and was said to have been planning a third. Allegations dating back to the intifada were added to the charge sheet.

His brother said Zubeidi did not acknowledge the charges and was awaiting trial.

He was held at Gilboa prison, a maximum-security facility in northern Israel just a few miles (kilometers) away from Jenin. He shared a cell with five members of the Islamic Jihad militant group from Jenin, four of whom were serving life sentences on terrorism convictions.

Early on Monday, each of them squeezed into a narrow hole in the floor of their cell and escaped through a tunnel running beneath the prison walls. It's unclear what role Zubeidi played in the escape, but he is the most famous of the six  and is once again among Israel's most wanted.

Kuperwasser suspects that if he remains at large long enough he'll return to his old ways  and not just the militancy.

"Its dangerous for him, but I wouldnt be surprised if he would look for an opportunity to speak with somebody to gain some more political clout from his success in escaping prison.

___

Associated Press reporters Aref Tuffaha in Jenin, West Bank and Jack Jeffery in Ramallah, West Bank contributed.
HOUSTON (AP)  A third man has been arrested in the fatal shooting of an off-duty New Orleans police officer and his friend during a holdup while the two were dining at a Houston restaurant, police said Thursday.

Khalil Nelson, 19, has been charged with two counts of capital murder in the deaths of New Orleans police Detective Everett Briscoe, 41, and Dyrin DJ Riculfy, 43.

Court records do not list an attorney for Nelson who could speak on his behalf. He was set to make his initial court appearance Thursday afternoon. News of his arrest was first reported by KHOU-TV.

Frederick Jackson, 19, and Anthony Jenkins, 21, had each been previously charged with capital murder.

Briscoe and Riculfy were dining on a restaurant patio Aug. 21 when two men wearing hoodies approached, tried to rob them and then shot them, police said. The suspects fled, according to police.

Briscoe, who had been a 13-year veteran of the New Orleans police department, was pronounced dead at the scene of the shooting while Riculfy died 10 days later at a Houston hospital. Both Briscoe and Riculfy were members of the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club and were taking the trip with club members at the time of the shooting.

Nelson, along with Jackson and Jenkins, remained jailed on Thursday and prosecutors were asking that Nelson be held without bond. Both Jackson and Jenkins are being held without bond.

At the time of the shooting, Nelson had been free on bond on a misdemeanor criminal trespass charge for his alleged involvement in an April carjacking, according to authorities.

Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg has previously said Jackson and Jenkins had also been free on bonds when the shooting happened. Jenkins was out on a bond for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, while Jackson was out on bond for an aggravated robbery, Ogg said.
Pope Francis wanted to help Italy's prisoners cool down as temperatures soared to record levels this summer - so he sent them 15,000 ice creams.

Inmates at the Regina Coeli jail and Rebibbia prison in Rome were blessed with the frozen goods, an act the Vatican described as one of several "small evangelical gestures" made "to help and give hope to thousands" imprisoned in the capital.

The ice creams were delivered in Francis's name by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, who is known as "the papal's almoner." The role, to which Krajewski was appointed in 2013, requires him to carry out charitable acts on behalf of the pope and the Vatican's charities.

Volunteers working for the pontiff's charitable organizations spent the summer "continuing to devote themselves, among other things to two of the seven works of mercy: visiting prisoners and consoling the afflicted," the Vatican said.

For Catholics, the 7 Corporal Works of Mercy are charitable actions that help "respond to the basic needs of humanity," and also include feeding the hungry and visiting the sick.

Last month temperatures on the island of Sicily climbed to 119.8 degrees Fahrenheit (48.8C) - potentially setting an all-time heat record for Europe. The intense heat came as other parts of the continent grappled with extreme weather, including deadly flooding.

The intense heat wave prompted weather warnings in several countries and sparked deadly wildfires in Greece, Italy, Tunisia and Turkey. The fires were fueled by wind and dry weather, destroying acres of land and forcing residents to flee their homes.

Christian Solinas, the president of the Sardinia region, said the blazes were "an unprecedented disaster" as Italian officials called on the European Union for help tackling the crisis.

Scientists note that extreme weather events will become more common as a result of human-caused climate change, according to a report published by The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in August.

Francis is widely known for his acts of love and generosity and has often visited prisons at home and abroad.

In 2018, he delivered 3,000 helpings of gelato to the homeless and needy. That same year, he marked World Day of the Poor by hosting a lunch for 1,500 people in need at the Vatican.

Items on the menu included lasagna, mashed potatoes and tiramisu, Vatican News reported at the time.

Last Christmas, Slovakia gifted Francis 4,000 coronavirus swab test kits which he gave to Rome's homeless community in a bid to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus - an infection that has claimed almost 130,000 lives in Italy.
The Biden administration announced a blueprint Wednesday outlining how solar energy could produce nearly half of the nation's electricity by mid-century, part of its ambitious bid to address climate change.

The new Energy Department analysis shows how the United States can scale up production of solar panels, which now provide 3% of the nation's electricity, to 45% over the next three decades.

The move, which would transform the nation's energy industry and infrastructure, shows how President Joe Biden is determined to reshape the economy and cut U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in the face of staunch political opposition.

While the administration has not set a specific solar energy target, the president has called for 100% of the nation's electricity to come from clean energy by 2035.

Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said in a statement that the nation could achieve such a rapid shift, noting that the study projects that solar energy could provide 40% of the nation's electricity by 2035 and employ as many as 1.5 million people without boosting electricity prices.

That analysis, however, assumes Congress would fund several of the clean energy investments and policies that Biden has proposed but which have yet to be enacted.

"Achieving this bright future requires a massive and equitable deployment of renewable energy and strong decarbonization polices - exactly what is laid out in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and President Biden's Build Back Better agenda," Granholm said in a statement.

Biden emphasized the need to achieve his goal of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 after touring damage wrought by Hurricane Ida in New York and New Jersey on Tuesday.

"We're going to be able to do these things, but we've got to move," he said. "We've got to move."

"And so, folks, this summer alone, communities with over 100 million Americans . . . have been struck by extreme weather," he added. "One in every three Americans has been victimized by severe weather - the hurricanes along the Gulf, the East Coast, up through this community. And I saw the human and physical costs firsthand, as I said, in Louisiana."

However, in recent weeks some environmental groups have begun to question Biden's commitment to curbing fossil fuels linked to climate change, especially since the Interior Department announced it would hold an oil and gas sale on 80 million acres in the Gulf of Mexico this fall to comply with a court order by a Louisiana judge.

The preliminary injunction, in June, blocked the administration's policy of pausing the sale of new oil and gas leases on federal land while reviewing how to reform the program. Interior has also scheduled several onshore oil and gas auctions for next February.

"An announcement on increasing renewable energy potential, no matter how impressive, must be followed by an announcement that details how this administration plans to manage public lands for climate and not for oil and gas," said Chase Huntley, vice president for strategy and results at the Wilderness Society, an advocacy group. "Especially as the administration moves to restart onshore and offshore leasing in direct conflict with a climate-focused agenda."
Florida, FL (34429)

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Mostly cloudy this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Scattered thunderstorms early, then cloudy skies after midnight. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
A. Officials knew the mandates were coming for years; they should have phased in the increase.

B. There's no master plan to justify the millions extra they are collecting.

C. It's Save Our Waters Week; this shows officials care about the environment.

D. Vote them all out of office.

Vote

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Wilkes-Barre, PA (18701)

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Mostly cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 85F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

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Showers and thundershowers this evening will give way to steady rain overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
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HELSINKI (AP)  A privately-funded expedition, commissioned by relatives of the victims of the M/S Estonia ferry that sank into the Baltic Sea nearly 27 years ago, will dive into the vessels wreckage this month.

Its the latest attempt to gain more insight into one of Europes worst peacetime maritime disasters.

The goal of the dive, organized by a Estonia-based fund, is to find answers to questions that official joint and separate investigations by Estonia, Finland and Sweden have failed to provide on the vessels fate, the organization said Wednesday.

Although during these decades numerous different investigations have been carried out, they have not been able to give the survivors and close relatives of the deceased exhaustive answers regarding the reason why Estonia perished, the Mare Liberum fund, created in July, said in a statement.

The M/S Estonia ferry, which was traveling from the Estonian capital Tallinn to Stockholm in Sweden, sank in heavy seas on Sept. 28, 1994, killing 852 people, most of them Swedes and Estonians. Only 138 passengers survived.

The Mare Liberum fund, which has backing from victims relatives groups in Estonia and Sweden, said it would organize the two-week dive expedition for late September. The project is headed by Margus Kurm, a former Estonian state investigator into the ferrys sinking, and it is estimated to cost 800,000 euros ($946,000).

Some victims relatives say all previous research into the accident, which has triggered numerous conspiracy theories over the years, had been conducted to hide the real cause of the accident.

This inquiry is very important for us to find the real reason why the M/S Estonia sank, Lennart Berglund, the head of a Swedish victims group SEA, told the Estonian newspaper Postimees.

The wreck of the M/S Estonia lies on the seabed 80 meters (264 feet) below the surface in international waters near the Finnish island of Uto. The wreck is considered a graveyard, which gives the area protection under the law.

It wasnt immediately clear what kind of stance the governments of Estonia, Finland and Sweden would take about the private expedition, which rivals an official dive by Estonian and Swedish authorities that is expected in 2022.

The 1997 official joint investigation by Estonia, Finland and Sweden concluded that the ferry sank as its bow door locks failed in a storm. That separated the bow door from the vessel, causing extensive flooding of the decks that eventually sank the vessel in just 20 minutes.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  A powerful earthquake struck near the Pacific resort city of Acapulco on Tuesday night, killing at least one person and causing buildings to rock and sway in Mexico City hundreds of kilometers away.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake had a preliminary magnitude of 7 and was centered 17 kilometers (about 10 miles) northeast of Acapulco.

Guerrero state Gov. Hector Astudillo told Milenio Television late Tuesday night that one person had been killed by a falling post in the town of Coyuca de Benitez near Acapulco.

We heard loud noise from the building, noise from the windows, things fell inside the house, the power went out, said Sergio Flores, an Acapulco resident reached by phone. We heard leaking water, the water went out of the pool and you heard people screaming, very nervous people.

Flores said all he could do when it started shaking was hug his wife. He saw people leaving hotels around the bay and some running into parking decks to remove their cars, fearing a collapse.

We were all worried about some change in the sea, but so far authorities have not said anything about a tsunami alert, he said.

Astudillo said the tsunami alert center had not registered any variations in the sea level. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later said the threat of potential waves had passed.

The mayor of Acapulco, Adela Roman, said in statement to the television news outlet Milenio that there is no really serious situation so far and no reports of casualties.

There are nervous breakdowns; people are worried because there have been aftershocks, she said, adding that there are many gas leaks in many places as well as some landslides and fallen walls.

Before the first death was reported, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said via Twitter that authorities in the four states that most felt the earthquake told him there were no victims or serious damage beyond some collapsed walls and falling rocks.

Fortunately there is not serious damage, he said.

Mexicos National Civil Defense said it was conducting reviews in 10 states, but had not received reports of victims nor serious damage.

In Mexico City, more than 320 kilometers (nearly 200 miles) away, the ground shook for nearly a minute in some parts of the capital, but the quake was less evident in other parts. Some people evacuated their buildings briefly, but most quickly went back inside on a rainy night.

I was at home with my mom and my dogs and the seismic alert started to sound, said Claudia Guarneros, a makeup artist. My mother was in another room and I started to call her. The house started moving and in the last part of the earthquake the power went out and we couldnt see anything, we just saw some things falling.

Mexico City authorities said there were no early reports of significant damage in the city, though electricity was knocked out in some neighborhoods. Some broken windows in a downtown high rise covered the sidewalk in glass.

Arturo Hernandez stood outside the relatively new apartment building he moved into just three years ago. Beside it stood a taller building abandoned since the magnitude-7.1 earthquake of Sept. 19, 2017, in neighboring Puebla state that caused major damage in the capital.

Hernandez heard the seismic alarm and made it outside before the ground began to shake. The abandoned building next to his continued to crack and moan for three minutes after the shaking stopped, he said. Asked if he had worried about the damaged building next door, he said, Always, always.

Tuesdays earthquake occurred four years to the day after a magnitude-8.2 earthquake that struck off the coast of Mexicos southern state of Chiapas, largely destroying the town of Juchitan in neighboring Oaxaca state and killing dozens.

About the photo: A couple walks past a taxi cab that was damaged by falling debris after a strong earthquake in Acapulco, Mexico, Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021. The quake struck southern Mexico near the resort of Acapulco, causing buildings to rock and sway in Mexico City nearly 200 miles away. (AP Photo/ Bernardino Hernandez)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Insured losses from Hurricane Ida are now creeping into the $30 billion range after catastrophe modelers added damage to properties in the Northeast, putting the catastrophe on par with Hurricane Irma and Harvey in 2017 and Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

CoreLogic on Wednesday reported that it projects $5 billion to $8 billion in insured flood losses in the Northeast. That is in addition to the projected $14 to $21 billion in insured flood and onshore wind losses caused by Ida in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

That would put total insured losses at $29 billion, according to CoreLogic, a catastrophe modeler based in Irvine, Calif.

But analysts for Goldman Sachs released a separate report that cited estimates from unidentified loss modelers that damages will reach the $30 billion to $40 billion range. The company said reinsurers will bear much of that burden because U.S. insurers tend to cede much of their risk, but the losses remain manageable for most.

Catastrophe modeler RMS, based in Newark, Calif., on Monday projected insured losses from Irma will range from $25 billion to $35 billion, but that does not includes losses in the Northeast. RMS did, however, include losses to offshore oil platforms that estimated to range from $700 million to $1.5 million. CoreLogics projections excluded offshore equipment.

CoreLogic said much of the damages in the Northeast are related to the dense urban development of the region.

Given the prevalence of multifamily housing and below-ground structures in these areas, well see more extreme interior content damages than we typically see in southern coastal areas, stated Shelly Yerkes, senior leader, insurance solutions at CoreLogic. For example, many of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems in New York City buildings are in the basements, so contents damage should be substantial.

The remnants of Ida dropped six to nine inches of rain on New York, New Jersey and surrounding states, causing flash flooding that overwhelmed storm water drain systems in an area with limited green space to absorb sudden deluges, CoreLogic said. Although Ida approached from a different direction, the rainfall it brought affected the same region as Superstorm Sandy.

CoreLogic said as catastrophic weather events become more common, local governments and property owners are making infrastructure and home resilience improvements.

The flooding from Superstorm Sandy was more severe than Tropical Storm Ida, stated David Smith, senior leader of science and analytics at CoreLogic. Due to the repairs made in 2012, such as strengthening buildings and infrastructure and addressing deferred maintenance, New York was less vulnerable. Tropical Storm Idas effects on New Yorkers would have been worse if we hadnt conducted these resilience-based repairs after Superstorm Sandy.

Smith, during a webinar last week, made similar comments about levee improvements in New Orleans that were able to withstand Idas 8-foot storm surge.

Iceye Flood Solutions, which uses satellite images to measure the extent of flood damage, said in a press release Wednesday that 5,293 structures in New Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania were impacted by floodwaters.

Iceyes analysis of the flooded areas in New Jersey and Pennsylvania uncovered the extensive impacts across several communities, with some of the worst hit areas having many buildings inundated with more than 3 feet of water, stated Nathan Uhlenbrock, a solutions architect for Iceye.

He said the Schuylkill River Valley in Pennsylvania and the Raritan and Passaic River Valleys in New Jersey were particularly hard hit.

Thomas Johansmeyer, head of Verisks PCS division, said it is not unusual for storms to leave a long trail of destruction. He noted Hurricane Isaias in August 2020, which skirted the East Coast causing $4.5 million in damage from North Carolina to New England even though it only briefly achieved hurricane status.

Johansmeyer said it is also not unusual for the remnants of hurricanes that strike the Gulf Coast to generate flooding in Ohio, which suffers more storm damage from tropical systems than most people might think.

However, he said few storms manage to create an arc of destruction that crosses from the Gulf Coast to New England.

This obviously is unusual and significant, he said.

Johansmeyer said most catastrophe modelers will try to estimate losses by comparing Ida to Hurricane Laura in 2020, Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and Superstorm Sandy. He said PCS wont release its own damage estimates until several weeks, after it receives loss reports from insurance carriers.

About the photo: Vehicles are under water during flooding in Philadelphia, Thursday, Sept. 2, 2021 in the aftermath of downpours and high winds from the remnants of Hurricane Ida that hit the area. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
WASHINGTON (AP) _ The company overseeing the response to a large oil spill spurred by Hurricane Ida said Tuesday that a containment dome has been placed over a broken undersea pipeline, stemming the flow into the Gulf of Mexico.

Houston-based Talos Energy said in a statement that its oil spill response contractor had installed the containment dome Monday evening, allowing for the recovery of the oil coming from the sheared-off 1-foot-diameter (30-centimeter-diameter) pipe and transferring it to surface vessels.

Talos said it does not own the ruptured pipeline that divers identified as the likely source of an 11-mile-long (18-kilometer-long) oil slick that appeared after the Category 4 hurricane made landfall on Aug. 29.

The Associated Press first reported last week that aerial photos showed a large brown and black oil slick spreading about 2 miles (3 kilometers) south of Port Fourchon, Louisiana. The broken pipe is in relatively shallow water, at about 34 feet (10 meters) of depth.

Talos said the rate of oil appearing on the surface had slowed dramatically over the weekend and that no new heavy black crude had been seen since Sunday.

So far, the spill appears to have remained out to sea and has not affected the Louisiana shoreline. There is not yet any estimate for how much oil was in the water.

The U.S. Coast Guard said over the weekend its response teams are monitoring reports and satellite imagery to determine the scope of the discharge, which is located in Bay Marchand, Block 4. Talos previously leased Bay Marchand, Block 5, but ceased production there in 2017, plugged its wells and removed all pipeline infrastructure by 2019, according to the company.

The company said it is working with the Coast Guard and Louisiana regulators to coordinate the response and identify the pipes owner.

During an overflight of the area on Sunday, the crew of a Coast Guard survey aircraft spotted another oil slick identified as coming from an oil platform belonging to S2 Energy, located approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) away from the Bay Marchand site.

According to the Coast Guard, the company reported that it has secured the wellhead to stop the leak and deployed a boom to contain a roughly 1-acre (.40-hectare) area of oil floating on the water. The amount of oil that leaked from the platform has yet to be determined.

No one could be reached Tuesday at a phone number listed for S2 Energy in Covington, Louisiana, and no one responded to an email.

The Coast Guard said it is prioritizing nearly 350 reported environmental incidents reported in Idas aftermath for further investigation by state, local and federal authorities.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Kamiah, ID (83536)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. High near 80F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Low near 45F. Winds light and variable.
Kamiah, ID (83536)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 79F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 46F. Winds light and variable.
"Paul is an Australian Jewish man in his late 40s who lives in the city of Brisbane, in the state of Queensland. On a recent Saturday, Paul (the name he has been referred to by local media to protect his identity) was walking with his 11-year-old son to a local synagogue where they were attending a bar mitzvah. On their journey, they were accosted by a stranger who, having noticed the kipahs that father and son were wearing, yelled Heil Hitler in their direction while giving the Nazi salute.

Having completed the volley of antisemitic abuse to his satisfaction, the man turned on his heel and strode off. But Paul wasnt done. Reaching for his cellphone, he began following the stranger while filming him. Hey buddy, he called out, saying Heil Hitler to me? The man didnt respond, however, and so Paul continued pointing the camera and asking why he had been verbally abused with a Nazi slogan.

It didnt take long for the man to snap. He lunged at Paul, punching him hard above the left cheekbone. Despite the blow, Paul managed to keep his phone in his hand, catching the man on video as he ran from the scene. Hitting me like that, you shit, Paul shouted after him in a voice shaking with rage. Im reporting you to the police!

Paul did report the attack to the Brisbane police, which are now investigating. In an interview with the local broadcaster 9News, Paul observed that the assailant gave me a Hitler salute, purely because he saw the kipah I was wearing on my head.

While news coverage of the incident was deeply sympathetic to Paul and his son, who was forced to endure both antisemitic abuse and the sight of his father being punched because they chose that moment to walk to shul, the 9News reporter asked the question that was on everybodys lips.

This is no criticism of you, but some people will question why you went after this guy, the reporter posited.

Paul had a ready answer. Its about the importance of standing up for what you believe in, he said. The importance of standing up to hate, against yourself or against other people.

It was the decent answer of a brave man, but is it the last word on this particular incident? Especially with Yom Kippur approaching, its worth remembering that what Paul experienced could happen to any of us. We are therefore bound to engage in soul-searching about what we might do in such a situation  and how we might balance the duty to our own safety and the safety of those in our care with a natural and entirely legitimate impulse to defend our integrity as Jews from those who want to humiliate us.

There is no easy answer from any perspective. As a father, I have to guiltily admit that my reaction would probably have been similar to Pauls; the guilt stems from the realization, after the heat of the confrontation is over, that you exposed your child to unnecessary danger. What if the man had been carrying a knife or  as would be far more likely on the streets of an American city  a gun? And why provoke him further by continuing to film him to the point where you were too busy aiming your phone in his direction to think about defending yourself?

Yet there is a flipside. To ignore a goon screaming Nazi slogans at you in broad daylight because you have the temerity to wear a head covering in public is to accept that such behavior is, if not normal, an inevitable part of the experience of being a Jew. By meekly walking on  by pretending that you dont see the eyes burning with hate or the spittle forming at the corners of the mouth  you perhaps save yourself from bodily harm but allow another kind of pain to be inflicted upon the mind and the soul.

It is hard for a young boy to feel proud of his Jewishness if he sees his own father acquiescing to abuse that targets him for the sole reason that he is a Jew. Moreover, in a moment like this one, he starts to believe that the choice of being Jewish is no longer primarily a question of faith or culture. It is an identity whose adoption is dependent on what others outside your group think: Do I want to be a member of a community thats still the subject of such hatred, a traumatized 11-year-old might ask? Whats so important about being Jewish that I should put up with being mocked and stigmatized like this?

During the next two weeks, rabbis in synagogues across the world will advance numerous answers to those questions, or versions of them. But whatever wisdom one encounters from the pulpit, Pauls flawed yet noble response to his tormentor is worth keeping in mind for three reasons. First, the unmistakable pride in his Judaism, a sentiment that has kept us alive as a community across the centuries. Second, the determination not to be silent in the face of hatred and to accept the risks that come with that stance. Third, providing his son with an example  albeit, a risky and irresponsible one  of Jews standing up for themselves.

For many observers, those features still dont excuse the fact that Paul, with his son in tow, chose to confront a complete stranger with obviously violent tendencies. Perhaps he might be more circumspect next time; certainly, one should not criticize the inverse reaction, which would be to save yourself and your loved ones by walking away. But Paul didnt do that because in the moment, he felt that something of historic importance was at stake: the right of Jews to be Jews without discrimination or harassment. This year, and every year, that is a message to carry in both the mind and the heart.

Ben Cohen is a New York City-based journalist and author who writes a weekly column on Jewish and international affairs for JNS.
Beachwood, OH (44122)

Today

Thunderstorms during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High 71F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable.
If you are in sales and trying to bring in new business for your company, I am sure you have heard these words from a customer: Ill get back to you.
Clifford Chance advises China Three Gorges on financing for acquisition of wind and solar power projects in Egypt and Jordan

Leading international law firm Clifford Chance has advised China Three Gorges South Asia Investment (CSAIL), a subsidiary of China Three Gorges Corporation (CTG), on the financing for a CSAIL-led consortium's acquisition of Dubai-based wind and solar developer Alcazar Energy Partners (AEP) from a group of funds linked to Abu Dhabis Mubadala Investment Co., Dubai-based BluStone Management Ltd. and the World Banks International Finance Corporation. AEPs portfolio includes five solar and two wind projects across Jordan and Egypt with a total generation capacity of 411 MW.

CTG is Chinas largest clean energy group and through this transaction CTG further expands its global footprint on renewable energy to the Middle East and North Africa region.

Commenting on the transaction partner Vicky Ma said, "CTG has been dedicated to renewable energy. Its recent investments echo the green Belt and Road Initiative and China's pledge on carbon neutrality. Following CTG's acquisition of a solar plant portfolio in Spain earlier this year, we are much delighted to assist CTG on this landmark transaction for them to achieve its corporate vision."

Vicky led a cross border team consisting of legal assistant Lei Zhong (Hong Kong), senior advisor Yi Wang (Luxembourg), senior associate Chengcheng Wu (Beijing) and trainee Harry Zhang (Beijing).
Marijo Krogman, 86, Clinton, died Sunday, September 12th. Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM Saturday, September 18th at Prince of Peace. Visitation from 9:00 AM until the time of the Mass Saturday. Pape Funeral Home is assisting.
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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The Commission on Elections declared a failure of bidding for its plan to lease an additional 10,000 vote counting machines (VCMs) for the 2022 elections.

Only SMMT-TIM 2016, Inc. or Smartmatic, which has supplied the VCMs and the technology for automated elections since 2010, expressed intent to participate when it bought bid documents in August.

However, the company did not submit a formal proposal during the September 9 deadline for bids, saying the contract price of 60,050.35 was too cheap.

"We have given the procurement documents a thorough study, trying to find ways to comply with all the requirements within the approved budget. Unfortunately, we have determined that the budget is not sufficient to cover all of Comelec's conditions stated in the TOR (terms of reference)," SMMT-TIM representative Filipinas Ordono said in a letter to the Comelec Special Bids and Awards Committee (SBAC).

READ: Comelec panel defends considering Smartmatic in bidding for poll materials

Comelec set a maximum contract price of 600.5 million for the lease of 10,000 optical mark reader or optical scan system machines for voting precincts, 10,000 main SD Cards, and another 10,000 wormable SD cards. Deliveries must be made in three batches between Nov. 15 until Jan. 30, 2022.

Ordono cited a global shortage in electronic parts which drove up prices by 20-25%, as well as a sharp rise in logistics cost over the past year of the pandemic. Smartmatic vowed it can still deliver the voting equipment on time if the contract price is increased in a subsequent public bidding.

Comelec currently owns 97,345 vote counting machines but needs more as it plans to reduce the number of voters per precinct to 800 in keeping with COVID-19 health protocols.

In May, Smartmatic bagged the 637.44 million deal to refurbish the existing VCMs.

The SBAC said it will review the approved budget for the lease of additional voting machines.

RELATED: Comelec releases calendar for 2022 elections
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9) An orphanage in Quezon City recorded 122 COVID-19 cases, with most infections occurring in children, Mayor Joy Belmonte said in a statement on Thursday.

The city reported that infection spread to 99 children under 18 years old and 23 personnel of the Gentle Hands Orphanage in Barangay Bagumbuhay.

The management of the orphanage confirmed the news, saying patients are exhibiting varying degrees of symptoms, but no one is suffering from "respiratory distress."

Charity Heppner-Graff, the executive director, told CNN Philippines the first positive case was discovered last Friday.

She assured the public that the residential institution is equipped to take care of the patients.

'No visitors'

Dr. Rolando Cruz, chief of Quezon City's Epidemiological Surveillance Unit, said an asymptomatic adult reportedly visited the orphanage and unknowingly brought the virus, which caused the outbreak.

Graff, however, dispelled this, saying the facility has not accepted visitors, and has been in quarantine since March last year.

"It is not true that an asymptomatic visitor spread the virus because we have not received any visitors at all due to the fact that some of the children are immunocompromised," Graff said in a statement, adding the source of the infection is still being traced.

"Prior to the staff needing to go out of the home for vaccinations in August 2021, we had no person going in or out," she added.

Graff stressed they have not violated health protocols and appealed for people to dial down their criticisms.

"I think people just need to be supportive and vouch for us and wish us the very best. It's not fair for people to say negative things and say that perhaps, we didn't do our job well," Graff said in a separate interview with News Night.

The local government unit is sending food packs, medicine, vitamins, and hygiene kits to the orphanage.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9) - The governor of Ilocos Sur is appealing to the national government for more COVID-19 vaccines as the province experiences a surge in cases due to the highly contagious Delta variant.

We do get vaccines from DOH, but the numbers are not enough, lalo na ngayon dumating na yung surge sa Ilocos Sur. Talagang umaapaw na mga ospital namin, Governor Ryan Singson told vaccine czar Carlito Galvez, Jr. during a meeting with the House Committee on Economic Affairs.

[Translation: We do get vaccines fom the Department Health, but the numbers are not enough, especially that there is now a surge in our area. Our hospitals are really full.]

Singson said they had to close their provincial hospital to other patients as they can now only serve COVID-19 positive individuals.

The governor said they even bought refrigerators so hospitals can store more vaccines but that they are barely receiving supplies from the national government.

He added that over 6,000 residents who received their first dose of Gamaleyas Sputnik-V shot have yet to receive their second dose past the due date.

Singson said even if the DOH says protection is good for three to six months, the people cannot be blamed for being scared, especially since the province has 11 confirmed Delta variant cases.

Ilocos Sur apparently signed a tripartite deal to buy Sinovac vaccines, but Galvez has yet to sign the document.

Paperwork ginawa namin lahat, but then again walang [We did all the paperwork, but then again, no] feedback from the national government, so were at a loss. We dont know what to do, Singson said.

This is precisely what the committee meeting was aboutto question why local government units and private companies are still facing difficulty getting their hands on vaccines.

Calapan City Mayor Arnan Panaligan said he signed a multi-party agreement (MPA) with Sinovac which was also forwarded to the vaccine czars office months ago.

Panaligan, who is secretary general for the League of Cities of the Philippines, said at least 26 other cities have attempted to get vaccines through multi-party deals.

The cities agreed to allocate a portion of our budget to procure medicines. And we did that not to compete with the national government, not because we do not trust the national government, but because we want to help the national government, Panaligan said.

Galvez, meanwhile, said lawmakers and LGUs should understand that it is the manufacturers' decision not to enter MPAs.

He also cited pricing and supply issues.

Even if we have signed our contract in May or June, no supply will come and will help our governors vaccinate because the supply will come indefinitely in 2022. There is an indefinite ban of shipments of vaccines from India, Galvez explained.

Government data show around 15.8 million Filipinos have been fully vaccinated. This is only 20% of the initial 70% target population needed for herd immunity.

With the Delta variant, authorities have increased the 70% threshold to 90%.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  One person died while 17 others are missing in the aftermath of tropical cyclone Jolina, the disaster management agency confirmed on Thursday.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said a 21-year-old male from Buenavista, Marinduque died by drowning. Its also verifying reports that two have died, four were injured, and 14 are missing in Naro, Masbate.

Meanwhile, farmers and fisherfolk in Luzon and the Visayas suffered losses worth over P206 million due to Jolina, according to initial estimates of the agency.

Jolina caused damage to agriculture worth 179.57 million in Eastern Visayas, 436,610 in Western Visayas, 16.5 million in the Bicol region, and 9.56 million in Mimaropa, the NDRRMC reported on Thursday.

On the other hand, the agency pegged infrastructure damage in Mimaropa, the Bicol region, and Western Visayas at 24.68 million.

Jolina's wrath affected 83,650 people in Central Luzon, Mimaropa, the Bicol region, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and Eastern Visayas, it added.

The weather disturbance brought heavy rains that caused flooding and landslides in a number of areas. At least 3,843 houses were damaged while 298 were totally destroyed, the NDRRMC said.

Jolina made five landfalls in Eastern Visayas and one in the Bicol region as a typhoon. It hit land nine times during its onslaught from Monday to Wednesday.

Jolina, now a tropical storm, was last seen near Dagupan, Pangasinan. It is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Thursday evening.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  The Philippine General Hospital has already reached its full capacity, but about 100 COVID-19 patients are still waiting to get admitted, the hospital's spokesperson said Thursday.

"We have 300 beds for COVID-19. We have 298 patients in the hospital, but we also have about close to 35 patients in the emergency room who are still waiting to get in the hospital," PGH spokesperson Jonas del Rosario told CNN Philippines' The Source.

"There are also a lot of people in the waitlist. I just checked this morning, there are about 100 patients with confirmed COVID-19, about half of them are needing high-flow oxygen or ventilator and wanted to get to PGH," Del Rosario said, noting that some of the waitlisted patients are still in their households, waiting for the go-signal of the hospital's transfer command center.

Del Rosario said the hospital's emergency room has already been transformed into an extended ICU to provide ventilators and oxygen to dozens of their patients.

"The way we are addressing (the problem) is we have to close some more of our non-COVID facilities so we can open up more beds that have available oxygen ports," he added.

Del Rosario noted that COVID-19 patients who are waiting to get treatment are probably going "hospital-hopping" to try their luck in other facilities that might accept them.

Hospitals in the Philippines are once again grappling with rising COVID-19 cases, amid the threat of the highly transmissible Delta variant that largely contributed to the spike in infections.

The country logged over 12,000 new cases on Wednesday, a bit lower compared to previous single day infections that breached the 20,000-mark.

The Department of Health earlier said infections may peak in the middle of September as the more contagious Delta variant could possibly increase the numbers.

RELATED: Some COVID-19 patients die at home as hospitals reach full capacity
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9) The Physicians Licensure Examination (PLE) in Metro Manila this September has been canceled, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced on Thursday, two days before the first test schedule.

The PLE in the capital region was supposed to take place on the following dates: September 11, 12, 18, and 19.

Affected examinees in NCR may take the next succeeding examination without forfeiture of their examination fees, the PRC said in an advisory, as it appealed for the publics understanding.

The commission said scheduled board exams in Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legaspi, Lucena, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga will push through.

Updates on the examinations will be posted on the PRC website and social media accounts, it added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 9)  Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Thursday categorically stated that she is not running for president in next year's elections after her father, President Rodrigo Duterte, officially declared he is gunning the vice presidency.

"I am not running for a national position as we both agreed only one of us will run for a national position in 2022," she said in an interview.

Duterte on Wednesday accepted the endorsement of a faction within the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) to be its vice presidential candidate, with Sen. Bong Go as the party's standard bearer, in the 2022 polls.

President Duterte previously said he will step aside if his daughter, a frontrunner in most election surveys, decides to run.

Despite these pronouncements, certificates of candidacy have not yet been filed with the Commission on Elections. The filing will begin in October.

Sara previously appealed to her father and Go to "stop talking about" her in their political plans.

She claimed, however, that her relationship with her father is not affected by politics.

The constitutionality of Duterte's vice presidential bid has been the subject of debate, with critics pointing out that Article 7, Section 4 of the 1987 Constitution states "The President shall not be eligible for any reelection." Malacanang argued, however, that Duterte is not running for the same office.

Replying to questions from CNN Philippines, former Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban said while the Constitution does not expressly prohibit Duterte from seeking the post, "the intent of the Constitution should be used in interpreting the ambiguous parts thereof."

It is difficult to predict what the present justices of the Supreme Court would do if the question is presented to them in a petition that complies with the requisites of justiciability," Panganiban said. "However, their recent decisions show that a majority of them belong to the textualist school," which means they are of the opinion Duterte can run for vice president, he added.
For the second time in just over two weeks, a ceremonial start to but another new capital project was celebrated here on Marco Island. On Tuesday, September 7, councilors, city staff, fire-rescue personnel and other guests attended the start of the project, which will see the demolition of Fire Station 50, which presently serves as the citys fire headquarters, to build a FEMA/Hurricane compliant replacement for the existing 28-year-old structure.

Since the early 90s, when the present-day structure was built, numerous changes have been made to the Florida Building Codes and construction standards to make buildings more resilient to hurricanes. FEMA also has adopted new flood zone standards. The present building fails to meet those standards and would not have been eligible for any FEMA funding.

This marked the second venture in which the city deviated from its normal design-build method of delivering a project such as this. Instead, the city adopted a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) process, versus its normal procedure of Design, Bid and Build. The CMAR process involves the Construction Manager guaranteeing that the project does not exceed the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). When the decision was made to proceed in this manner on both the Veterans Community Park Project and the new Fire Station 50 Project, former Council Chairman Erik Brechnitz voiced strong concerns regarding the process.

As a run up to this project, City Manager Michael McNees proposed purchasing the Medical Arts Building adjacent to the citys campus that includes city hall, the police headquarters building and the site of the present fire headquarters. McNeess rationale for making the purchase encompassed the need to provide temporary quarters for the next year for fire department staff, as well as eventual increased office space to meet the needs of other city staff members, once the work has been completed on the new fire headquarters building.

Manhattan Construction, as well as being the successful bidder on the Veterans Community Park Project, was also the successful bidder on the Station 50 Headquarters Project. When completed, the new Station 50 Headquarters will house an Emergency Operations Center for the city, as well as gas and diesel fuel storage to allow for refueling of city equipment, which was an issue in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in 2017, and in previous storms.

A construction timeline of approximately 12 months is anticipated for completion of the project.
Brunswick, GA (31520)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 86F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy. Low 72F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
The Coastal Point is a local newspaper published each Friday and distributed in the Bethany Beach, South Bethany, Fenwick Island, Ocean View, Millville, Dagsboro, Frankford, Selbyville, Millsboro, Long Neck and Georgetown, Delaware areas.
DiFebo's Market celebrates its official grand opening and ribbon-cutting with the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce on May 19. The market, located across Route 26 from DiFebo's in Bethany Beach, was one of several new businesses opening in the town this summer, which saw many visitors but also some challenges involving staff and supply issues.
Delaware State Auditor Kathy McGuiness announced this week that her Project: Gray Fox website is ready for use, at auditor.delaware.gov.
When Ethan Liebross was preparing to apply for college, he said he thought it would be beneficial to talk to current students about their experiences because he could not always attend college tours and reading about schools online did not provide what he needed.

When Liebross (senior-psychology) came to Penn State, he decided to start a business titled The College Prep Project to address the problem he encountered. He turned to the Happy Valley LaunchBox in downtown State College for help in developing his idea.

Lee Erickson, chief amplifier at the Happy Valley LaunchBox powered by PNC Bank, described the LaunchBox as Penn States business accelerator.

We help people who have an idea for a new business figure out if anybody cares  other than themselves, Erickson said.

Liebross started The College Prep Project with a friend of his from Princeton University, and the project has had mentors from New York University and Georgetown University.

According to Liebross, The College Prep Project aims to find high school students and pair them with college students, or mentors, who help them prepare for college. The project assists students with application essays, scholarship searches and choices of major among other resources.

Erickson said every service the LaunchBox offers is free.

When Liebross completed the LaunchBoxs FastTrack Accelerator program, the LaunchBox brought in experts from various fields to help his project.

Everyone there is just incredibly welcoming and super nice and energetic, Liebross said. Even though it was online, they made it super engaging and fun to go to the meetings.

The LaunchBox is composed of three people  Erickson, Jason Huber, the entrepreneurial cog coordinator, and Ben Nason, the idea catalyst. All three have entrepreneurial experience, Erickson said.

According to Erickson, the LaunchBox began in 2016 as part of Penn State President Eric Barrons Invent Penn State initiative, from which the LaunchBox receives funding. There is a LaunchBox location for each Penn State campus.

Invent Penn State is a $30 million initiative that aims to include entrepreneurship and innovation programs, tools and resources that accelerate the movement of great ideas to the marketplace, and make a substantial economic development impact in Pennsylvania and beyond, according to its website.

Nason said he believes the LaunchBox has assisted close to 100 groups of entrepreneurs and has collected 10s of millions of dollars of funding in its five to six year history.

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The LaunchBox has also helped student David Moyer with his project, 42MORO Co, which is developing greenhouse sensors to assist food production in Kenya, according to Moyer (junior-computer science).

Moyer said Nason offered his entrepreneurship experience and connections for the co-working sessions and said he has helped Moyer and his team stay focused on their goals.

The LaunchBox has also helped Moyer with customer discovery in the Idea TestLab. Moyer said his team plans on applying for the FastTrack Accelerator Program and the Summer Founders Program.

According to Erickson, the LaunchBox will offer drop-in consulting, or co-working, at its new building, which will open this October on South Burrowes Street. People interested can also email the LaunchBox with an idea and receive consulting, Erickson said.

Erickson said the LaunchBox strives to help students gauge market interest when they apply for the Idea TestLab  a four-week program offered every spring, summer and fall.

Nason said the Idea TestLab is where he helps a team discover customers and where the lightbulb goes off. A team is the LaunchBoxs term for a group of entrepreneurs working on a project, Nason said.

Once a team completes the TestLab, it can apply for the FastTrack Accelerator, a 15-week program from December to April that teaches the team members how to develop the business model and earn money, according to Erickson.

The Accelerator also provides the ability to hire an intern to help with any project, according to Erickson.

Liebross said without the Accelerators customer discovery assignments, his team would have been all over the place.

The LaunchBox really gave us a sense of direction, Liebross said.

Erickson said many similarly designed accelerator programs take partial ownership of the companies they assist. The LaunchBox does not take any ownership, or equity, of the companies it helps, she said.

Another program the LaunchBox offers, for projects with at least one Penn State student, is the Summer Founders Program, which grants $15,000 to the project to be used however the founders see fit, Erickson said.

Any team that progresses through the FastTrack Accelerator or the Summer Founders Program receives a space at the LaunchBox, according to Erickson. She said some entrepreneurs start companies together by meeting at the LaunchBox while working on different projects.

According to Erickson, the LaunchBox also partners with the Penn State Entrepreneur Assistance Law Clinic and the Penn State Intellectual Property Law Clinic for legal advice for anyone in the early stages of starting a business in Pennsylvania.

Erickson said the LaunchBox is equipped not only to help Penn State students but anyone in Happy Valley with a business idea. She said some entrepreneurs still receive assistance five years from when they first contacted the LaunchBox.

[I love] the variety and diversity of ideas and people I get to interact with, Nason said. Because the world has very different problems it needs solving and the types of people who try to solve those problems are very different.

Erickson also said the coronavirus pandemic, along with virtual programming, has allowed entrepreneurs from all over Pennsylvania to take advantage of the LaunchBoxs programs.

Its a really cool thing to be able to empower somebody else to make smarter decisions.

MORE NEWS COVERAGE

CATA announces its Game Day shuttle service back at Penn State CATA announced it will resume shuttle services to Penn State football home games, according 
The State College Police Department is asking for help in identifying an individual who is allegedly involved in a criminal trespass investigation at the downtown State College Target.

We are asking for the communitys assistance in identifying the pictured individual for a criminal trespass investigation incident. View full release>>> https://t.co/WvYH0dPuNH pic.twitter.com/dXQZgi4wmY  State College Police (@StateCollegePD) September 9, 2021

During the stores closed hours from Sept. 4-5, the individual was allegedly seen accessing "multiple" areas of the store and staying "for several minutes."

Anyone with information regarding the identify of the suspect is encouraged to contact the SCPD or submit an anonymous tip through its website.

MORE CAMPUS COVERAGE
Where to find resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing intimate partner violence, help is available through these resources:

True North of Columbia 24/7 hotline: 1-800-548-2480

MU Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center: 573-882-6638

Mid-Missouri Legal Services: 573-442-0116

If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, help is available through these resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255

Mid-Missouri Crisis Line: 800-395-2132

Missouri Suicide/Crisis Hotline: 314-469-6644

Access Crisis Intervention Hotline: 800-395-2132
The Missourians Opinion section is a public forum for the discussion of ideas. The views presented in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Missourian or the University of Missouri. If you would like to contribute to the Opinion page with a response or an original topic of your own, visit our submission form
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What's Included

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60%

Website gfmer.ch uses latest and advanced technologies. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 157250 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 3153 bytes (3.08 kb uncompressed) and 1122 bytes (1.10 kb compressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-09-09, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.
100%

Website jewishpress.com uses latest and advanced technologies like: JQuery and Boostrap. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 433653 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 492450 bytes (480.91 kb uncompressed) and 66515 bytes (64.96 kb compressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2021-09-09, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.
76%

Website parl.gc.ca uses latest and advanced technologies. It is very popular on the web, it's within the 1 million most visited websites of the world at position 177369 by Alexa. It supports HTTPS and GZIP compression. The main html page has a size of 2293 bytes (2.24 kb uncompressed) and 869 bytes (0.85 kb compressed).

This CoolSocial report was updated on 2019-11-13, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.
Not to praise successful thieves or anything, but heists are beyond difficult to get away with. Anything other than flawless precision during a robbery will land a thief in jail, and slip-ups can be all too easy. Of course, not every crime is a close call. Overconfidence, unbridled stupidity, or any combination of the two can lead to a thief not only getting caught but getting laughed at too ...

5 The British Bank Robber Foiled By His Own Handwriting

Handwriting can be an important piece of evidence in a criminal investigation. In the case of 67-year-old Alan Slattery of the U.K., it prevented a robbery from even happening.

Slattery was arrested and convicted of one successful and two attempted robberies. His first attempt demonstrated the need for legible penmanship. On March 18, 2021, Slattery walked up to a cashier in a bank and handed them a note. The note demanded that the cashier hand over their money and threatened bank customers. Unfortunately for Slattery, the cashier had no idea what the note said.

Sussex Police With handwriting like that, he should have applied to medical school.

His handwriting was so bad that the cashiers couldnt even figure out that this was an attempted robbery. Rather than pressing harder or trying another method, Alan Slattery simply left the bank in defeat. Only after he had gone did the cashiers realize what Slatterys note said, and called the police.

Julo/Wiki Commons He'd have printed the message out, but he couldn't afford the ink. Hence the robbery.

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With his first failure behind him, Alan Slattery tried another bank on March 26. His method of handing over a demand note had not changed, but apparently, he did a really good job perfecting his handwriting in the week between attempts because he was successful this time and made off with 2,400. And then, like a true career criminal, Slattery took a bus.

Yes, after robbing a bank, Alan Slattery used his actual bus pass to board public transportation. This became important to the criminal investigation against him, as police were able to reference his bus pass picture with CCTV footage of the bank robberies. Not that Slattery was a criminal mastermind otherwise, but this didnt help his case.

Christopher Bill/Unsplash He had to use his bus pass because he didn't have any change on him.

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Before he went down, though, Alan Slattery had one last crime left him. On April 1 (yeah, seriously), he entered one final bank and handed a cashier one of his trademark notes. Instead of either being confused or caving to the request, the cashier stood up to Slattery. In his grand tradition of giving up when the situation gets tough, Slattery left the bank without any cash. It should come as no surprise that Slattery was arrested. While his handwriting may have been difficult to understand, his guilt was not. He was sentenced to four years in prison, followed by two years of probation.
Mark Weidemaier & Mitu Gulati

Earlier today we had a great time recording a Clauses and Controversies episode about the Province of Buenos Aires restructuring, which should post sometime next week. Our guest was Bloomberg reporter Scott Squires, who knows the Argentine context inside out and has also taken a deep dive into the mechanics and details of this restructuring. We got to talk about the PBAs various shenanigans, and one aspect of our conversation continues to confuse us all. PBA offered to pay past due interest to creditors who consented to the restructuring; non-consenters did not receive the payment.

In the post linked above we wondered whether this payment, when added to PBAs various threats, made the deal coercive. And we wondered why creditors, despite receiving fairly generous financial terms, were willing to accept this treatment. One answer we got from multiple sources is that it is simply too difficult and time consuming to deal with the trustee. Basically, its hard to get the trustee to act. First, holders of 25% in principal amount must instruct it to bring suit, then they have to negotiate the trustees indemnity, etc. And all this takes time. Meanwhile, the so-called no action clause in the indenture blocks individual bondholders from filing suit unless and until the trustee fails to act for 60 days. Perhaps any challenge the PBAs conduct required quick, forceful legal action, but bondholders upset by the deal couldnt muster the required 25% support or viewed the delay inherent in this process as a deal-breaker.

This would all make sense, were it not for the unusual drafting of another contract term. The clause played an important role in a lawsuit initially filed by Goldentree, one of PBAs biggest creditors. Goldentree later changed course and were viewed as one of the drivers of the eventual deal. But the lawsuit was premised on the ability of individual bondholders to circumvent the trustee, found in this language (emphasis ours):

[E]ach Holder of Debt Securities shall have the right, which is absolute and unconditional, to receive payment of the principal of and interest on (including Additional Amounts) its Debt Security on the stated maturity date for such payment expressed in such Debt Security (as such Debt Security may be amended or modified pursuant to Article Eleven) and to institute suit for the enforcement of any such payment , and such right shall not be impaired without the consent of such Holder.

Our issuer-side friends have scoffed at this reading, telling us that the no action clause plainly requires all bondholder litigation to go through the trustee, at least until the bond has matured. That may be the common understanding. But that reading isnt easy to square with the language above, which can plausibly be read to give individual investors the right to sue for missed coupon payments. Investors have a right to get principal and interest on . . . the stated maturity date for such payment. This is an unusual formulation. It is natural to say that principal comes due on the maturity date. But interest? Does interest mature? Our issuer-side friends would say, we assume, that the use of stated maturity date reinforces their understanding of the effect of the no action clause. But that reading seems to ignore the language for such payment (underlined above). This seems quite clearly to refer to individual payments, and the clause refers to both principal and interest. And it seems perfectly reasonable to interpret all of this to mean that, on the date when the interest is due, the interest obligation matures. Under this reading, investors can always sue for missed payments. It is other litigationsuch as an acceleration in response to a cross-default triggerthat must go through the trustee.

Anyway, reading further, the clause says that an investors right to such payment  i.e., the interest that was due  and to institute suit cannot be impaired without the consent of such Holder. That would at least arguably have enabled individual bondholder suits for past interest.

Again, many of our contacts in the market think this reading is nonsense and ignores the purpose and history of this clause. And we dont really have a strong opinion as to which reading is correct. But we do think the reading abovewhich is presumably the reading underlying Goldentrees suitis plausible. Certainly there is a fairly straightforward argument to that effect based on the text of the clause, and text seems to matter quite a bit to judges applying New York law. It never ceases to amaze us how many seemingly settled questionsat least in the eyes of market participantsare not well reflected in contract language.
Joyce S. Norrod, 86, of Crossville, passed away on Sept. 8, 2021, at her home in Crossville. Mrs. Norrod was born on May 20, 1935, in White County, daughter of Allen Smith and Anna O'Dell Smith. Joyce was a homemaker and a founding member of the Crossville First Church of the Nazarene. She w
Mike Harvel when he was booked in the Cumberland County Justice Center in February 2018 following indictment by the Cumberland County Grand Jury on two counts of sexual battery, one count of assault and one county of official misconduct. Those charges are still pending.
Two air medical helicopters were called to the scene to transport a Cumberland County Sheriff's deputy injured in a collision with a suspect in a high-speed pursuit and the suspect who was shot multiple times. The deputy is at the University of Tennessee Medical Center for treatment of critical injuries. It is not known where the suspect was flown or his condition.
The Moabite people are mentioned in the Bible 38 times. They were not known as godly people. Many instances in which they are mentioned are in a negative way and a warning to the people of God. To be a Moabite was not necessarily a good thing. However, we see the gracious sovereignty of the Lord using Moabites to accomplish His purposes. Today, we are going to answer the question, were the Moabites really all that bad?

Who Were the Moabites in the Bible?

Stephen Baker from Bible Study Tools shares, "The dark origin of these people is found in Genesis 19. After Lot and his two daughters escaped the divine destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah Both daughters conceived sons by their father by getting him drunk. The son of the youngest daughter was named Ammon, father of the Ammonites. The son of the oldest daughter was named Moab, the father of the Moabites. These two half-brothers would become two powerful nations.

Moabites lived in the land called Moab which was located between the Dead Sea and the Arabian desert. One of the most well-known stories from the Bible that included Moab is when Balaam told King Balak to cause Gods people to sin with sexual immorality and food given to idol worship. Unfortunately, the Israelites took the bait and sinned. They were punished with a deadly plague because of their choices (Numbers 31). Because of this, Moabites were not allowed to enter the assembly of the Lord.

Even with their ungodly culture and evil decisions, God still honored His promise to Lot in having the land of Moab as his possession (Deuteronomy 2:9). This shows us how the Lord is always faithful to us, even when we fail Him, His Word is always true. Deuteronomy 23:5 says, However, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you. The Israelites were then warned not to be in alliance with Moab.

Even after all of the sinful decisions from the Moabites, God still had great mercy. Jesus Himself came from a family connected with a Moabite. Ruth was in the genealogy of Christ.

Reverend Kyle Norman from Crosswalk shares, Moab worshiped a different God than the Israelites. Whereas Israel worshiped Yahweh, Moabs deity was known as Chemosh. This means that Ruth was a foreign woman and not part of the covenant people of God. Despite this, it is through Ruth that Gods covenant promise is furthered. We see this theme constantly in the Scriptures. God chooses the foolish and the weak to bless Gods people and establish Gods promises (1 Corinthians 1:27). Ruth is a prime example of this.

Ruth was a Moabite woman who chose to dedicate her life to the God of Israel and follow her mother-in-law after the death of her husband. They moved to Bethlehem and God orchestrated for Ruth to meet and marry Boaz, a descendent of Salmon and Rahab. Boaz probably witnessed great mercy coming from a household with a mom who was a former prostitute. He then extended such great mercy by becoming the kinsman-redeemer of Ruths former husbands legacy.

This whole story points to Jesus, our kinsman-redeemer. He took us from being outsiders in sin to being brought into His family. We are no better than the Moabites. We all have sinned and fall short of Gods glory. Yet, He chose to come and die for our sins and when we accept that gift, we enter into a relationship with Him.

Moab was known for their pride and idolatry. The final time we read about Moab is in Isaiah 16:14 says, But now the Lord says: Within three years, as a servant bound by contract would count them, Moabs splendor and all her many people will be despised, and her survivors will be very few and feeble.

Who Did the Moabites Worship?

1 Kings 11:33 shares that the Moabites worshiped the god called, Chemosh. Bible Study Tools Dictionary shares, Chemosh was the primary national god of the Moabites and Ammonites. The Moabites are called the "people of Chemosh" in the passage of Scripture that details the travels of the Israelites through Edom, Moab, and Ammon, ( Num 21:21-32 ). During the reign of Solomon worship of Chemosh, along with that of other pagan gods, was established and promoted in the city of Jerusalem.

What Were Some Prominent People from Moab in the Bible?

The most prominent person from Moab was Ruth. Solomon married a Moabite princess (1 Kings 11:1-8) Also, Balak was the king of Moab in Numbers 22. There are not many other individuals listed in Scripture, but more of the discussion of Moabites as a whole people group.

Interesting Facts about Moab and the Moabites

Moses died in Moab and saw the promised land from Mount Nebo and the top of Pisgah.

Bible Study Tools Dictionary says, In the Plains of Moab, opposite Jericho [ Numbers 22:1; 26:63; Joshua 13:32 ), the children of Israel had their last encampment before they entered the land of Canaan. It was at that time in the possession of the Amorites ( Numbers 21:22 ). "Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo to the top of Pisgah," and "died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord" ( Deuteronomy 34:5 Deuteronomy 34:6 ).

King David defeated the Moabites: In 2 Samuel 8, The Moabites lose in battle, and two-thirds were killed and one-third became subject to King David.

Solomon was married to Moabite women: Many times the Israelites were warned to not intermarry with the Moabites. Although the wisest man on earth, Solomon could not overcome his sin of polygamy. He married women who worshipped foreign gods and disobeyed the Lord in it (1 Kings 11:1).

The Israelites defeated Moab multiple times: King David defeated Moab, the Israelites invaded their land and took victory in 1 Kings 3. It is said that Moabite raiders came every spring (2 Kings 13:20). Their battle with the people of God was ongoing. A well-known godly king named Jehoshaphat had victory over the people of Moab and Ammon when they came to wage war on him (2 Chronicles 20).

People of God were not supposed to marry Moabites: Just as Jesus shared in the New Testament not to be unequally yoked in marriage with unbelievers, the Israelites were given the same command (1 Corinthians 6:14). Ezra prayed on behalf of the people, including the Levitical priests who had intermarried with Moabites and other ungodly people.

I believe that the Moabites were sinners who made horrible decisions. They disobeyed God and followed idol worship. They came after and fought against the people of the Lord out of hate. They chose to be sexually immoral. However, we see the great picture of mercy and of grace through the character of Ruth. We see one woman who stepped away from the culture she grew up in to follow the one true God. She was abundantly blessed by her faithfulness to follow the Lord. She was among those in the family line of Jesus listed in Matthew 1. We can learn from Moab that no one is stuck in their sin. Even if we live in a culture that is idolatrous and anti-God, we like Ruth can step out and trust Jesus. We like the Moabites are also sinners deserving punishment, however, through Jesus, we have the hope of redemption.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Kyle Cottrell

Emma Danzeys mission in life is to inspire young women to embrace the extraordinary. One of her greatest joys is to journey with the Lord in His Scriptures. Emma is a North Carolina resident and green tea enthusiast! She is married to her husband Drew and they serve international college students. She enjoys singing, dancing, trying new recipes, and watching home makeover shows. During her ministry career, Emma recorded two worship EP albums, founded and led Polished Conference Ministries, ran the Refined Magazine, and served in music education for early childhood. Currently, she is in the editing stages of her first two writing projects: a Bible study on womanhood and a non-fiction book on singleness. You can visit her blog at emmadanzey.wordpress.com
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Korey Rowe served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned home to the U.S. in 2004 traumatized and disillusioned. His experiences overseas and nagging questions about Sept. 11, 2001 convinced him Americas leaders were lying about what happened that day and the wars that followed.

The result was Loose Change, a 2005 documentary produced by Rowe and his childhood friend, Dylan Avery, that popularized the theory that the U.S. government was behind 9/11. One of the first viral hits of the still-young internet, it encouraged millions to question what they were told.

While the attacks united many Americans in grief and anger, Loose Change spoke to the disaffected.

It was the lightning rod that caught the lightning, Rowe recalls. He had hoped the film would prompt a sober reassessment of the attacks. Rowe doesnt regret the film, and still questions the events of 9/11, but says hes deeply troubled by what 9/11 conspiracy theories revealed about the corrosive nature of misinformation on the internet.

Twenty years on, the skepticism and suspicion first revealed by 9/11 conspiracy theories has metastasized, spread by the internet and nurtured by pundits and politicians like Donald Trump. One hoax after another has emerged, each more bizarre than the last: birtherism. Pizzagate. QAnon.

Look at where its gone: You have people storming the Capitol because they believe the election was a fraud. You have people who wont get vaccinated and theyre dying in hospitals, Rowe says. Weve gotten to the point where information is actually killing people.

There were, of course, conspiracy theories before 9/11 happened  John F. Kennedys assassination, the moon landing, a supposed 1947 UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico. And the countrys interest in fringe theories was on the rise before 9/11, exemplified by the 1990s show The X-Files, with its taglines of The truth is out there and trust no one. But it was 9/11 that heralded our current era of suspicion and disbelief and revealed the internets ability to catalyze conspiracy theories.

Conspiracy theories have always been with us, and its just the means of sharing them that has changed, says Karen Douglas, a psychology professor at the University of Kent in England who studies why people believe such stories. The internet had made conspiracy theories more visible and easy to share than ever before. People can also very quickly find like-minded others, join groups, and share their opinions.

Conspiracy theories about the attack and its aftermath also gave early exposure to some of the same people pushing hoaxes and unfounded claims about COVID-19, vaccines and the 2020 election, including Alex Jones, the Trump-supporting publisher of InfoWars, who has accused the United States of plotting the attacks and says the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax. Jones was a co-producer of the third edition of Loose Change.

Polls show belief in 9/11 conspiracy theories peaked soon after the attack, then subsided. That's not surprising, according to Mark Fenster, a University of Florida law school professor who studies the history of conspiracy theories. He says shocking, sudden events often spawn conspiracy theories as people collectively grapple with understanding them.

A plane that runs into the World Trade Center? That runs into the Pentagon? It sounds like the stuff of films, Fenster says. It just didnt seem like a real event, and its when you have a major anomalous event like this that conspiracy theories sometimes come around.

Conspiracy theorists once relied on books, pamphlets and late night television shows to espouse their beliefs. Now, they use message boards like Reddit, post videos on YouTube, and win over converts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

The first known 9/11 conspiracy theory originated only hours after the attack, when an American software engineer emailed a post to an internet forum questioning whether the destruction of the towers looked like a controlled demolition.

Twenty years on, a search on YouTube for content related to 9/11 turns up millions of hits.

Thousands of videos focus on conspiracy theories. That is a lot, but the grandfather of modern conspiracy theories has been outpaced by the upstarts: A Google search of 9/11 conspiracy theory turns up more than 8 million results, while a search for COVID conspiracy theory turns up more than three times that.

Tech companies say they do what they can to limit the spread of false information about 9/11. YouTube has added links to authoritative sources to some 9/11-related videos. Facebook says it has added fact checks to viral hoaxes about 9/11, including one that the Pentagon was struck by a missile and not a plane.

Bogus claims about the Sept. 11 attacks never posed the threat ascribed to misinformation about COVID-19 or the 2020 U.S. elections. But even proponents of 9/11 conspiracy theories say questions about what happened helped create today's environment of distrust and anxiety.

The danger is, once you have that distrust of authority and government, its a dangerous place to be, says Matt Campbell, a British citizen whose brother died in the World Trade Center on 9/11. Campbell believes the towers came down after a controlled demolition, and is seeking a new inquest into his brothers' death in the UK.

On the grand scale, such the distrust the underlies such beliefs can become dangerous when they begin to divide a society, or when they are exploited by a political leader like Donald Trump, Fenster says.

Usually it is the case that the people who feel they are being excluded from power who are committed to conspiracy theories, Fenster says. Whats different this time is that it was the party that was in power  the party that had the White House  that was the main broadcaster of conspiracy theories.

___

David Klepper covers misinformation for The Associated Press. Follow him on twitter: https://twitter.com/davidklepper
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan health and business officials on Thursday renewed their plea for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, citing hospital workforce shortages, unnecessary deaths and concerns that end-of-summer travel and the return to school could fuel a surge in cases.

About 59% of Michigan residents ages 12 and older have been fully vaccinated and 65% have gotten at least one dose. Those figures trail behind the national rates of 62% and 73%.

Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, said hospitals are operating at near capacity as coronavirus caseloads rise and high numbers of non-COVID-19 patients seek care they delayed earlier in the pandemic. The number of adults hospitalized with the disease Wednesday  1,300  was well below the state's peak of roughly 4,100 in April. However, Peters said there are fewer employees and non-virus patients who waited need higher levels of care and longer hospital stints.

Our staffing is stressed to a level that we have not seen previously, Peters said. One of the ways to prevent that is to get the vaccine. There's just no question.

Physicians said there is a new dimension of stress, sadness and fatigue on the front lines, as people die after refusing vaccines that work.

Dr. Geneva Tatum, associate division head of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the six-hospital Henry Ford Health System in southeastern Michigan, said she is heartbroken and discouraged by patients who continue to remain unvaccinated because they thought they could outrun the disease." Of the system's 111 hospitalized COVID-19 patients, 77% were unvaccinated, nearly 14% were fully vaccinated and 9% were between doses.

Dr. Nicole Linder is the chief hospitalist at OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group in Escanaba in the Upper Peninsula, where six counties top the state with the highest two-week case rates. She said health care workers were hopeful that enough people would receive the vaccine to end the pandemic, but the hospital is confronting a wave of new infections. The patients and usually their family members distrust medicine, which is partly why they did not get vaccinated, she said.

Linder told the story of an unvaccinated patient whom she treated for the past three weeks. While hospitalized, the woman made calls to persuade at least six family members and friends to get vaccinated.

But it was too late for her," Linder said. Despite everything that could possibly be done for her, she's going to lose her battle and lose her life. She's vivacious and gregarious and just a wonderful person. This did not have to happen. Her family didn't have to lose her. I am fatigued and I am heartsick and I am tired of watching people suffer needlessly and die of a disease that could have been prevented by a simple and safe and effective vaccine.

People overestimate the effectiveness of coronavirus treatments in comparison to vaccines, she said.

We truly need to get the message across that our best treatment for COVID is to never get it in the first place, Linder said.

Business leaders joined in vaccination push. Vaccines, they said, can keep schools and child care centers open, protect employees on the job, give comfort to customers and prevent government-ordered capacity restrictions.

President Joe Biden on Thursday announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans, including businesses that employ at least 100 workers  who must be vaccinated or get tested weekly. A previously announced mandate for nursing home employees was to be expanded to include those in hospitals and other health care facilities.

Many Michigan hospitals already are requiring workers to be vaccinated, though others are not.

Biden also called on governors to mandate vaccines for teachers and school staff. Nine states have done so, but Michigan is not among them.

A spokesman for Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said her office was reviewing the president's plan. She previously said she did not plan to issue broad" masking or vaccine requirements.

___

Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
WASHINGTON (AP)  Law enforcement officials concerned by the prospect for violence at a rally in the nation's capital next week are planning to reinstall protective fencing that surrounded the U.S. Capitol for months after the Jan. 6 insurrection, according to a person familiar with the discussions.

Though no specific measures have been announced, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi hinted during her weekly press conference Wednesday at extra safety precautions for the Sept. 18 rally by saying: We intend to have the integrity of the Capitol be intact. Briefings for lawmakers, including congressional leaders, are expected in coming days.

A security plan that is being finalized calls for a fenced perimeter on the streets immediately surrounding the Capitol building and the Supreme Court, though not around the congressional office buildings nearby, said the person, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity ahead of an official announcement.

The Capitol Police formally requested the fence to the board that oversees it, and it is likely to be approved, according to a House Democratic aide who spoke on condition of anonymity to talk about private discussions.

Police continue to track intelligence indicating far-right extremist groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers are planning to attend next week's rally, which is designed to demand justice for the hundreds of people who have been charged in connection with Januarys insurrection. Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, however, has said he doesn't expect his membership to attend.

On Wednesday, meanwhile, the FBI released new information in hopes of catching the person suspected of leaving behind two pipe bombs on Capitol Hill the night before the riot, one of the enduring, unsolved mysteries of that chaotic week.

The potential presence of the extremist groups at next week's event is concerning because, while members and associates of Oath Keepers and Proud Boys make up just a fraction of the nearly 600 people who have been charged so far in the riot, they are facing some of the most serious charges brought.

Those charges include allegations that they conspired to block the certification of Bidens victory. Several Oath Keepers have pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and are cooperating with investigators in the case against their fellow extremists, who authorities say came to Washington ready for violence and willing to do whatever it took to stop the certification of the Electoral College vote.

The fence had been a stark symbol of the fear many in the Capitol felt after the mob pushed its way past overwhelmed police officers, broke through windows and doors and ransacked the Capitol as Congress was voting to certify Joe Bidens electoral win.

The planned Sept. 18 rally comes as a jittery Washington has seen a series of troubling one-off incidents  including, most recently, a man who parked a pickup truck near the Library of Congress and said he had a bomb and detonator.

Perhaps the most concerning: A series of unexploded pipe bombs placed near the Capitol on Jan. 5 remain unexplained and no suspect has been charged.

The FBI released a new video of that suspect on Wednesday and a digital map showing the person circling the offices of the Democratic and Republican national committees, where the bombs were placed. The FBI also said, for the first time, that agents believe the suspect is not from the Washington area but may have been operating out of a location near the Capitol.

Based upon the suspects route of travel to the DNC and from the DNC to the RNC, and the manner in which the suspect carries the backpack after placing the pipe bomb at the DNC, the FBI believes the suspect had a location in the vicinity of Folger Park from which the person was operating," the FBI said in a news release. Reviews of the suspects behavior in video footage and interviews with residents in the Capitol Hill neighborhood have led the FBI to believe the suspect is not from the area."

Some lawmakers and top union officials were expected to be briefed on the fence plan later this week and another more expansive briefing for the leaders of the House and Senate was planned for Monday.

On Capitol Hill, the politics around fencing in the iconic building and its grounds proved challenging for lawmakers after the January insurrection. Many said they disliked closing off access, even as they acknowledged the increased level of security it provided. The fencing finally came down with a promise to re-erect it if necessary. But the question of what deserves fencing is tricky.

In an interview Wednesday, the districts Democratic representative, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, said she had not yet been briefed on the security plans, but understood if the fence needs to be reinstalled as a precaution ahead of the upcoming rally.

I would hope that we wouldnt have to fence in the Capitol every time theres a demonstration, Norton said. But she added, If they go with the fence, Im not going to criticize them.

Norton suggested that in the aftermath of Jan. 6 there would be more robust security preparations ahead of this rally out of an abundance of caution  even though it is scheduled for a Saturday before the House returns to session, a typically sleepy summertime afternoon when few lawmakers or staff would be at work.

I wouldnt be surprised to see the fence go up, she said. The preparations are certainly going to be more than they were on Jan. 6.

___

Associated Press writers Colleen Long, Nomaan Merchant and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
STRATFORD  If he had gotten to work a minute or two earlier, Andy Wynn might not be around to tell the story.

The Stratford resident was living in Brooklyn on Sept. 11, 2001 and worked for Blue Cross/Blue Shield in the actuarial department  on the 31st floor of 1 World Trade Center.

The night before, he had stayed late at the office to make a work deadline.

So when his alarm clock rang the next morning, he decided not to get up right away.

I hit the snooze button, fortunately, because usually Id get there about 8:45, Wynn said during an interview at his home last month. I got there a little later, thankfully.

The first hijacked plane to crash into the twin towers that morning was American Airlines Flight 11, which slammed into the building where Wynn worked  at 8:46 a.m.

At the time, he was emerging from the subway and was walking toward the elevators into the building.

Once it hit, it shot a fireball straight down the elevator shaft, and incinerated anyone in it, Wynn said. It could have been me.

At the time, though, Wynn, a Detroit native who moved to Connecticut when he was 5, didnt have a clear picture of what was happening  other than chaos.

I heard a noise. I saw people running. Honestly I just thought it was a bomb or something, because the (World) Trade Center got bombed (in February of 1993), Wynn said.

Im just in shock, I dont know whats going on, he said of his thoughts moments after the terrorist attack  which no one knew was a terrorist attack at the time  began.

Now, two decades later, he said his memories of that day are mostly a blur, with a handful of moments that stick out.

He remembers holding his daily copy of The Wall Street Journal over his head to shield himself from the swirling dust and rubble.

His next vivid memory of the day is more macabre.

At some point I saw a body come from the building, he said. It was surreal.

Prior to the that day, the prospect of confronting a terror attack was not something most Americans thought about.

I didnt even know what to expect. Im just slowly walking away from the building, but not really thinking What am I supposed to be doing right now? Do I need to go to work? Whats really happening? Wynn said. Everyone was scattering.

Wynn headed in the direction of City Hall, east of the World Trade Center.

I believe thats when I heard the second one hit, he said. And that was loud. I thought New York City was being bombed at that point.

At that point I just crossed the Brooklyn Bridge and just went home, he said. I didnt know what else to do.

Wynns memory of the attacks aftermath is also spotty. But he remembers that communicating with others was tough.

Nothing was working. I dont even know if I had a cell phone back then, he said. I know people were trying to get in touch with me. It took awhile for me to speak to anybody.

I wanted to get in touch with my parents, Wynn said. And they were trying to, and people were trying to get in touch with my parents - Have you heard from him? Have you heard from him?

When he did reach his parents, Wynn said, he isnt sure what was said..

I know it took some time for me to actually speak with them, Wynn said. I was probably still in shock, so I dont remember what. It was more like Thank goodness youre alive and well see you soon.

Thankfully, no one in his office was killed in the attacks. But the loss still hit close to home since he had worked for the New York City Fire Department for about a year and a half as a budget analyst, until May 2001.

He recalls being in meetings with some of the terror attacks FDNY victims only months prior.

I know some of them died, he said. I didnt know anybody personally that did.

Even so, it took awhile for him to deal with what happened.

I was really shook, Wynn said. To me the Trade Center and everything about it, it just meant a lot. It was tough, that first year. Im pretty good now, I can talk about it, I can see it. In the beginning I couldnt.

His office moved to a temporary location in Newark, N.J. for three months, then to Times Square. He said moving away or taking another job wasnt an option.

Im not going to let this affect my life, Wynn recalled thinking at the time. Im not going to let them win. Youre not going to scare us, Im not going to leave the city because of it. Absolutely no way I was ever going to do that, no.

Still, he stayed away from ground zero.

I hadnt been down there in 18 years, Wynn, now married and a father of two children, said. I went there for the first time with my wife two years ago. I never saw the rubble or the new building up until then.

Wynn now works for a bank, and has been working from home the past 17 months. His office had been in Brooklyn, but when he does return, it will be to a new location  blocks away from the World Trade Center.

Im literally going to be back right there again, which Im OK with, he said. We went and visited, so that was probably good.

Wynn said its difficult to draw lasting lessons from what happened  especially seeing how divided the country can be, even in the midst of a pandemic.

To me, my biggest takeaway, and its just because of the culture, I guess, we live in, and everything these days is political - is how united the country was after it, he said. I dont know if it scares me or its sad that if something like that ever happened again, I dont know if wed be as united as we were back then, just because of the environment we live in these days.

Its sad and disappointing and almost makes you realize people didnt learn from that experience or that time what it really means to be a country thats united, Wynn said. Whats it going to take?
New London Police / Contributed

NEW LONDON  A city resident turned herself in on an active warrant stemming from a fatal pedestrian collision in November 2020, according to police.

Shortly before 6 p.m. on Nov. 16, 2020, first responders were dispatched after several 911 calls about a vehicle and pedestrian collision in the area of Broad and Channing streets. The man who had been hit by a vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene by medics, police said.
Grocery giant Stop & Shop is making a bold move to grab market share from its rivals in five states including Connecticut: If a perishable product purchased in any of of its stores doesnt meet a customers standards for freshness and quality, they can return it and get double their money back.

Stop & Shops Freshness Guarantee covers any perishable product purchased in the stores meat, seafood, produce, dairy, bakery, floral or deli department.

Gordon Reid, president of Massachusuetts-based Stop & Shop, which has more 400 stores in five states including 90 in Connecticut, said in a statement that we want our customers to shop us with confidence, and this program makes it clear just how important it is to us that we deliver the highest quality standards across all our stores.

Company officials did not answer specific questions from Hearst Connecticut Media about why Stop & Shop was using the program.

The program works like this:

A customer dissatisfied with a perishable item can return it to any Stop & Shop location, even if it is not the one at which the product originally was purchased.

After presenting the product, package and/or receipt, Stop & Shop will offer refunds under a specific set of guidelines.

For returns of in-store purchases, Stop & Shop will make refunds on items purchased within the last 30 days. If a receipt is available, the refund will be issued to the original form of payment; anyone who does not have a receipt will receive a store credit.

For returns of products purchased via home delivery and online orders picked up at the store, Stop & Shop will refund perishable items in orders that were delivered or picked up within the past seven days. Those refunds are available via the chain s customer care center, which can be reached at 1-800-767-7772. Purchases will be verified before being refunded to the original form of payment.

Perishable items not covered in the Freshness Guarantee program include those that have been reduced for quick sale as well as those that have been marked down. Company officials said they are reserving the right to limit the refunds based on misuse of the program or where it is prohibited by law.

Burt Flickinger, managing director of the Strategic Resource Group, a New York City-based retail consultant, said the Freshness Guarantee is a sound marketing strategy that will help Stop & Shop recover market share the chain lost during a three-week strike by its workers in spring 2019.

A modest amount of this is customers lost to the strike, but their customer focus groups told them about the freshness of their product, Flickinger said.

For more than 20 years, he said, Stop & Shop had outsourced its product buying and distribution to an outside wholesaler.

The result was even quality of their perishables, Flickinger said. But now the company has gone in a different direction and spent over $1 billion to retake control of all aspects of their supply chain, so they now control their own proverbial destiny. That gives them a strong foundation with which to work from.

Conventional wisdom in the supermarket business, he said, is that for every dollar of customer business that is lost, you have to spend up to $6 to get them back.

Stop & Shop lost about 10 percent of their business in 2019, Flickinger said. With this program, they should recover all the business they lost and be ahead of where they were (before the strike) at some point between Columbus Day this year and New Years Day 2022.

Stop & Shop first used the Freshness Guarantee program in the late 1980s, he said, and it completely turned the tables on almost everyone of their major competitors at the time.

Wayne Pesce, president of the Connecticut Food Association, a grocery industry trade group, said consumer grocery shopping habits have changed dramatically because of the pandemic.

Anything that happened in 2019 is ancient history, Pesce said. Consumer behavior is not what it was pre-pandemic, so this makes all the sense in the world. Its marketing strategy on their part designed to target customers that like fresh produce.

Stop & Shop has the largest presence in the states grocery business, he said.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
Westport Astronomical Society member and NASA Flight Director Dr. Bob Dempsey is presenting Tales From The Trenches  When Things Go Wrong in Space, which is the next talk in the Astronomical Societys Virtual Free Lecture Science Series, at 8 p.m. Sept. 21, via a Zoom webinar, and alternatively as a YouTube Livestream. The Astronomical Society will not be opening its observatory for the event. Participants are encouraged to participate in the event, ask questions, and be a part of the live meeting.

History, culture center lecture exploring ancient Egypt, roaring 1920s

The Weston History and Culture Center, (formerly the Weston Historical Society) at 104 Weston Road in Weston, is having an in person, and livestreamed on Zoom lecture titled Ancient Egypt and the Roaring 1920s: From Archaeology to Flapper Fashion that will reveal the connection between Ancient Egypt, and the Roaring 1920s. Professor John Coleman Darnell and Dr. Colleen Darnell will be the guest presenter for the event, which takes place at 7 p.m., Sept. 29.

Admission is free and registration is required. Interested people will select the type of ticket they want to purchase for the event, when they register. Register at westonhistoricalsociety.org. Participants can choose if they are attending the event in person or via Zoom.

The Darnells will present how the public profile of the study of the subject of archaeology in Egypt in the 1920s changed with the discovery of Egyptian Pharoah King Tutankhamums tomb. With fascination with ancient Egypt already in an upward swing, the Darnells will discuss the excavation of Amarna, which is the captial city of Akhenaten.

Attendees can also support the History and Culture Center with a $5 suggested donation on the History and Culture Centers website at westonhistoricalsociety.org.

Student athlete from Westport running college cross country

Tyler Wright, who is a senior accounting major at the Eastern Connecticut State University, is running mens cross country this fall at the school, located in Willimantic.

Walk, run for Abilis scheduled

Abilis, a leader serving those with special needs in Fairfield County, in towns like Westport, is scheduled to celebrate 16 years of its family-friendly walk and runfriend raiser and signature special event of the year, Oct. 17, at Greenwich Point Park.

Participants can walk or run in person, or participate virtually from anywhere in the world. Participants are encouraged to register in advance at the website for the event at abilis.us/walkrun. Registration is free for walkers. Registration is $40 for adult 5K runners, and $20 for runners ages 11 to 17.

The event supports the nonprofit organizations programs, and is an annual celebration for the organizations community. People who want to participate in the event are encouraged to wear their Walk, and Run for Abilis t-shirts, and team outfits, and costumes, and document their walk and run for Abilis photos, and videos by posting on all social media platforms using the hashtag, #WalkRunForAbilis.

Both in person, and virtual teams are encouraged to create team t-shirts, and costumes to build excitement, and camaraderie, and to wear in the weeks leading up to Oct. 17 or on their actual walk or run. Prizes for the most creative outfits will be awarded.

The event has an ambassador each year. This years ambassador is Andre DeNunzio. DeNunzio is part of the Norwalk LEAP transition program for young adults, and is currently in the employee training program at the coffee shop business Coffee for Good. Visit the organizations website at www.abilis.us, or Facebook page at facebook.com/Abilisinc, or Twitter account at twitter.com/Abilis, or Instagram page at https://www.abilis.us/walkrun/ for more information. Also visit the organization for more details.

People who are interested in becoming a sponsor of the event should contact the organizations director of development, Jennifer Flatow, at flatow@abilis.us, or 203-531-1881, ext. 161. Face coverings will be required for all attendees, over the age of 2. The organization is also celebrating its 70th year in 2021, and supports more than 800 individuals with special needs, and their families from birth throughout their lives.
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DETROIT (AP)  President Joe Biden glossed over important details and oversimplified the facts in his boast about support from the United Auto Workers union for his effort to dramatically increase sales of electric vehicles by decade's end.

In his remarks Wednesday, Biden failed to say that UAW did not endorse the EV targets he set in an executive order signed last month. The union's support is also dependent in part on robust government support for union-made cars in the form of tax credits in legislation pending in Congress  something that is far from guaranteed to happen.

A look at the claim:

BIDEN, praising the work of UAW members: The main Big Three (automakers) have decided along with the support of those unions on building, going electric, so we own that market.

THE FACTS: Not exactly. While UAW has expressed general support for more EV sales, it has repeatedly declined to back goals urged by Biden as part of his ambitious plan to combat climate change, including the 40% to 50% target agreed to by the largest automakers.

Biden last month announced his plan to own the EV market over foreign competitors, signing an order setting a goal that half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 will be zero-emissions vehicles, which environmental groups say is needed to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. That would be a seismic shift in the U.S. from internal combustion engines to battery-powered vehicles.

Transportation is the single biggest U.S. contributor to climate change.

The United Auto Workers union, in fact, has voiced concerns about being too hasty with an EV transition because of the potential impact on industry jobs. Since electric vehicles generally have 30% to 40% fewer parts and are simpler to build, fewer workers will be needed to assemble them. That will likely mean a reshuffling of jobs, as workers who once made engines, transmissions and other components for gas-powered cars have to switch to electric motors and batteries.

At the signing of Bidens order, UAW did not endorse a target, pointedly saying it stands behind the president to support his ambition not just to grow electric vehicles but also our capacity to produce them domestically with good wages and benefits.

Both UAW and the Big Three" automakers  Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, formerly Fiat Chrysler  have made clear that a dramatic shift can only happen with incentives for electric vehicle purchases, adequate government funding for charging stations and money to expand electric vehicle manufacturing and the parts supply chain.

In a bipartisan infrastructure bill awaiting congressional passage, there is $7.5 billion for grants to build charging stations, about half of what Biden originally proposed. He also had wanted $100 billion for tax credits and rebates to entice people into buying electric vehicles. At least some of that money was expected to be incorporated in a $3.5 trillion spending bill that is facing resistance in Congress.

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Krisher is an Associated Press auto writer.

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EDITOR'S NOTE  A look at the veracity of claims by political figures.

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Find AP Fact Checks at http://apnews.com/APFactCheck

Follow @APFactCheck on Twitter: https://twitter.com/APFactCheck
PHOENIX (AP)  Lawyers defending the founders of the classified site Backpage.com against allegations they knowingly ran ads for prostitution told jurors Wednesday that the adult service ads published by their clients were controversial but ultimately protected by the First Amendment.

Attorneys for Michael Lacey and James Larkin said in opening statements at their trial that the site ran legally allowable ads for escort services, but didnt publish ads for sex. They say the site beefed up its staff and methods for spotting illegal ads, helped authorities in investigating sexual trafficking cases and earned compliments from law enforcement for their assistance.

Backpage was doing everything they could to help the police, said Paul Cambria, one of the attorneys representing Lacey.

Last week, a prosecutor told jurors that the majority of the sites revenue came from prostitution ads but the founders and operators of Backpage tried to conceal it. The prosecutor said the site hired content moderators whose job was not to remove prostitution ads but to edit them so they werent so blatant. The prosecutor also said the website developed a partnership with a website where customers wrote reviews of prostitutes, which drove significant traffic to Backpage.

On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Susan Brnovich denied a request for a mistrial made by defense lawyers, who argued a prosecutors repeated references to sex trafficking during opening statements were inflammatory.

While prosecutors say the site published many ads that depicted children who were victims of sex trafficking, no one in the federal case in Arizona is charged with sex trafficking or child sex trafficking.

In all, six former Backpage operators have pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating prostitution. Of the six, Lacey, Larkin and two others have pleaded not guilty to money laundering charges.

The sites marketing director has already pleaded guilty to conspiring to facilitate prostitution and acknowledged he participated in a scheme to give free ads to prostitutes to win over their business. Additionally, the CEO of the company when the government shut the site down, Carl Ferrer, pleaded guilty to a separate federal conspiracy case in Arizona and to state money laundering charges in California.

Lacey and Larkin founded the Phoenix New Times, held ownership interests in other weeklies such as The Village Voice and ultimately sold their newspapers in 2013. But they held onto Backpage, which authorities say generated $500 million in prostitution-related revenue from its inception in 2004 until April 2018 when it was shut down by the government.

The sites operators are accused of giving free ads to prostitutes and cultivating arrangements with others who worked in the sex trade to get them to post ads with the company.

Thomas Bienert, an attorney defending Larkin, read aloud to jurors compliments that law enforcement agencies gave to Backpage for their cooperation in sex trafficking investigations.

Bienert also said the operators of Backpage had reason to think they were operating legally, saying judges who presided in now-dismissed lawsuits over Backpage ads found that its adult services ads were protected by the First Amendment.

Some people might not like the material published on Backpage but the ads were still legal, Bienert said. Controversial doesnt equal illegal, Bienert said.

The trial is expected to last two to three months.
Nam Y. Huh/AP

WASHINGTON (AP)  A prominent conservative defense attorney whose disappearance from court stalled a slew of U.S. Capitol riot cases said Wednesday that he has been released from the hospital and is preparing to get back to work.

Prosecutors had expressed concerns last week after John Pierce, who is representing more than a dozen people charged in the Jan. 6 riot, didn't appear in court for several days. An associate  who is not licensed to practice law  was appearing before judges in Pierce's absence.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP)  The Justice Department on Thursday sued Texas over a new state law that bans most abortions, arguing that it was enacted in open defiance of the Constitution."

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Texas, asks a federal judge to declare that the law is invalid, to enjoin its enforcement, and to protect the rights that Texas has violated.

The act is clearly unconstitutional under long-standing Supreme Court precedent, Attorney General Merrick Garland said at a news conference announcing the suit.

The Justice Department argues the law unlawfully infringes on the constitutional rights of women and violates the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution, which says federal law supersedes state law. Federal officials are also concerned other states could enact similar laws that would deprive their citizens of their constitutional rights," he said.

It is settled constitutional law that a State may not prohibit any woman from making the ultimate decision to terminate her pregnancy before viability, the lawsuit reads. But Texas has done just that.

The Texas law, known as SB8, prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity  usually around six weeks, before some women know theyre pregnant. Courts have blocked other states from imposing similar restrictions, but Texas law differs significantly because it leaves enforcement to private citizens through civil lawsuits instead of criminal prosecutors.

Pressure had been mounting on the Justice Department not only from the White House  President Joe Biden has said the law is almost un-American  but also from Democrats in Congress, who wanted Garland to take action. Earlier this week, Garland vowed the Justice Department would step in to enforce a federal law known as the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

That law, commonly known as the FACE Act, normally prohibits physically obstructing access to abortion clinics by blocking entrances or threatening to use force to intimidate or interfere with someone. It also prohibits damaging property at abortion clinics and other reproductive health centers.

The lawsuit filed on Thursday seeks an immediate injunction to prohibit enforcing the law in Texas. Under the statute, someone could bring a lawsuit  even if they have no connection to the woman getting an abortion  and could be entitled to at least $10,000 in damages if they prevail in court.

The statute deputizes all private citizens, without any showing of personal connection or injury, to serve as bounty hunters authorized to recover at least $10,000 per claim from individuals who facilitate a womans exercise of her constitutional rights, Garland said. The obvious and expressly acknowledged intention of this statutory scheme is to prevent women from exercising their constitutional rights by thwarting judicial review.

The attorney general also argued the Texas law could expose some federal employees at different agencies across the government to civil liability for doing their jobs.

The Texas law is the nations biggest curb to abortion since the Supreme Court affirmed in the landmark 1973 decision Roe v. Wade that women have a constitutional right to an abortion.

Abortion providers have said they will comply, but already some of Texas roughly two dozen abortion clinics have temporarily stopped offering abortion services altogether. Clinics in neighboring states, meanwhile, have seen a surge in patients from Texas.

Texas Right to Life, the states largest anti-abortion group and a driver of the new law, said Thursday in anticipation of the lawsuit that it was already working with other states to pass similar measures.

The Biden administrations ploy represents a desperate attempt to stop the life-saving law by any means necessary, the group said in a statement.

Renae Eze, a spokesperson for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, said his office was confident the courts would uphold the law.

The most precious freedom is life itself. Texas passed a law that ensures that the life of every child with a heartbeat will be spared from the ravages of abortion, Eze said.

The law provides no exceptions in cases of rape or incest, which Abbott on Tuesday defended by falsely asserting that women still have at least six weeks to get an abortion. A woman who has regular periods and is carefully tracking her cycle could know of a positive result no earlier than about four weeks into a pregnancy.

Abbott also said Texas would strive to eliminate all rapists from the streets. Recent surveys by the U.S. Department of Justice found that most rapes go unreported to police, including a 2019 survey that found that only about 1 in 3 victims reported they were raped or sexually assaulted.

The Center for Reproductive Rights, which is representing Texas abortion clinics suing over the law, welcomed the Biden administration stepping in.

Its a gamechanger that the Department of Justice has joined the legal battle to restore constitutionally protected abortion access in Texas and disarm vigilantes looking to collect their bounties, said Nancy Northup, the groups president.

Brigitte Amiri, deputy director of the ACLU Reproductive Freedom Project, said in a statement that the lawsuit is a critical first step "to righting this injustice for the people of Texas, and to prevent this catastrophe from playing out in other states that have pledged to follow Texas lead.

Amiri said in an interview that she expected the lawsuit to move quickly, possibly reaching the Supreme Court within weeks.

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Balsamo reported from New York City.

AP reporter Jessica Gresko contributed to this report.
NEW YORK (AP)  A former nurse who co-founded and once ran the cult-like NXIVM group, where prosecutors say some women were brainwashed, branded like animals and coerced into sex, was sentenced Wednesday to 42 months in prison but won't be locked up until January.

Nancy Salzman, the former president and co-founder of NXIVM, must also pay a $150,000 fine, U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis said. She has agreed to forfeit more than $500,000 in cash, several properties and a Steinway grand piano.

Salzman must report to prison by Jan. 19, Garaufis said. Her lawyers said she has been caring for her ailing mother.

Speaking in Brooklyn federal court, Salzman, 67, said she fell under NXIVM leader Keith Raniere's spell when they started working together 20 years ago and that she started rationalizing and overlooking the wrongdoing she saw around her. She offered an apology to everyone she's hurt.

I dont know that I can ever forgive myself, she said.

Salzman, known within the Albany-based group as Prefect," pleaded guilty in March 2019 to charges of racketeering conspiracy that involved conspiracy to commit identity theft and conspiracy to obstruct justice. She was one of the first in the group's leadership to plead guilty to criminal charges.

At that time, a tearful Salzman said she got mixed up with Raniere, a self-professed spiritual leader, because she wanted to help people improve their lives but that she ended up losing her way by helping spy on perceived enemies who sought to expose the group as a cross between a pyramid scheme and a cult.

At Salzman's sentencing, Garaufis said she had positioned herself alongside Raniere atop the NXIVM pyramid and left trauma and destruction in her wake.

In her misguided loyalty and blind allegiance to Keith Raniere, the defendant engaged in a racketeering conspiracy designed to intimidate NXIVMs detractors and that inflicted harm on NXIVMs members, Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis said in a statement after Salzman's sentencing.

Raniere was sentenced last October to 120 years in prison for turning some women into sex slaves branded with his initials and sexually abusing a 15-year-old. The group attracted millionaires, including Seagrams liquor heir Clare Bronfman, and Hollywood actors, including Allison Mack of TVs Smallville.

Bronfman was sentenced a year ago to nearly seven years in prison. Mack was sentenced in June to three years in prison. Salzmans daughter, Lauren Salzman, was sentenced in July to five years of probation and ordered to perform 300 hours of community service for her role in the group.

Nancy Salzman's crimes involved stealing identities of the groups critics and hacking into their email accounts from 2003 to 2008, prosecutors said. She was also accused of conspiring to doctor videos showing her teaching NXIVM lessons before the recordings were turned over to plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the group.

An NXIVM bio of Salzman posted on the internet said she was a consultant to New York state and major corporations until she met Keith Raniere and discovered an approach to personal growth that yielded powerful and permanent results.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Amid the Idaho coronavirus surge that prompted officials to authorize hospitals to ration health care, Army soldiers sent to one hospital have traded their fatigues for personal protective equipment to help treat a flood of infected patients.

The conference center at Kootenai Health hospital in the city Coeur dAlene has been converted into a field hospital of sorts  with some of its classrooms filled with hospital beds where patients receive oxygen or get monoclonal antibody treatment, hospital officials said.

At the nearby main hospital building in the city of about 50,000, some emergency room patients receive care in a converted lobby and others get it in hallways. Urgent surgeries have been put on hold and some patients in critical condition are facing long waits for intensive care beds.

The hospital is licensed for 200 regular medical beds  not including the ones designed for children, women giving birth and people experiencing a mental health crisis  and on Wednesday had 218 med surge patients, said Jeremy Evans, the hospital's COVID-19 incident commander.

Meanwhile, about 500 of its roughly 3,600 clinical and staff positions are empty, he said, forcing managers to ask administrative staffers and others to take on additional work like cleaning hospital rooms.

The overwhelmed hospital is at the epicenter of a coronavirus crisis for the northern part of the state  and where state officials this week authorized crisis standards of care status.

That allowed Kootenai Health, where an entire floor has been turned into a makeshift COVID-19 unit, and other hospitals in the region to ration health care during the surge.

Public health officials are warning the health care rationing could soon spread statewide, forcing already traumatized doctors and nurses to make gut-wrenching decisions about who will get life-saving care.

Newly confirmed coronavirus infection cases in Idaho are surging and the state is now averaging more than 950 new cases every day, according Johns Hopkins University  an increase of more than 41% over the past two weeks.

Idaho is also last among U.S. states with only about 45% of residents having received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Just under 40% of residents are fully vaccinated, making Idaho 48th the nation compared to other states and Washington, D.C.

For the rest of the state, we remain dangerously close to crisis standards of care, Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Director Dave Jeppesen warned Tuesday, when there were just nine available intensive care unit beds in the entire state.

The crush of patients has forced Kootenai Health into doing things that were not normal  way outside of normal  at times, said hospital chief of staff Dr. Robert Scoggins.

Almost every day at this point we are having cardiac arrest from patients when their oxygen levels dip too low and we cant supply them with enough oxygen, he said.

Kootenai Health recently installed a larger oxygen tank in an effort to treat all the patients. If the hospital's caseload grows, Scoggins said, the hospital's oxygen delivery infrastructure  the actual pipes that run through the walls  may not be able to handle the demand.

While many of northern Idaho's smaller, rural hospitals have not been forced to ration health care, they frequently have no place to send their critically ill patients who would normally be transferred to Kootenai Health.

Hospitals in neighboring Washington state would normally help with the overflow, but they are also full of patients, Jeppesen said.

Peter Mundt, the spokesman for Gritman Medical Center in the Idaho city of Moscow said the institution is struggling to find hospital destinations to transfer patients with serious heart problems and other conditions unrelated to COVID-19.

Our ability to accommodate non-COVID patients are very strained at this point, Mundt said. Even though were all different hospitals, we normally work together as collaborative colleagues and peers. We need it to work as a giant system and that system is just under severe strain right now.

In the city of Lewiston, St. Joseph Regional Medical Center is also operating at the very edge of our capacity, spokeswoman Sam Skinner said.

Our current situation is worse than its ever been, Skinner said. As we continue to see the COVID-19 surge in our community, the impact on one hospital can quickly have this rippling effect. Our low community vaccination rates are putting an incredible burden on our community.

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare moved northern and north-central Idaho into the crisis designation Monday evening, giving hospitals a legal and ethical template to use while rationing care.

The designation will remain in effect until there are enough resources  including staffing, hospital beds and equipment or a drop in the number of patients  to provide normal levels of treatment to all patients.

Under the guidelines, patients are given priority scores based on a number of factors that impact their likelihood of surviving a health crisis.

Those deemed in most in need of care and most likely to benefit from it are put on priority lists for scarce resources like ICU beds.

Others in dire need but with lower chances of surviving will be given comfort care to help keep them pain-free whether they succumb to their illnesses or recover.

Other patients with serious but not life-threatening medical problems will face delays in receiving care until resources are available.

Jeppesen stressed Tuesday that vaccines are the best way to reduce the demand on hospitals. Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that full vaccination with any of the currently available coronavirus vaccines dramatically reduces the risk of requiring hospitalization for a coronavirus infection.

State health officials have also asked people should not go to emergency rooms for asymptomatic coronavirus tests or other matters that can be handled in doctor's offices, but said no one should hold off emergency room visits for potentially serious conditions. They warned people people to be prepared to wait for care.

Idahos hospitals have struggled to fill empty nursing, housekeeping and other health care positions, in part because some staffers have left because they are burned out by the strain of the pandemic and because others have been quarantined because they were exposed to COVID-19.

Late last month, Little called in 220 medical workers available through federal programs and mobilized 150 Idaho National Guard soldiers to help hospitals cope with the surge.
SEWARD, Neb. (AP)  An Omaha man has been sentenced to four to eight years in prison for the death of a passenger in a vehicle he was driving that crashed during a police pursuit.

Julio Fernandez Bonilla, 19, was sentenced Wednesday after he pleaded no contest to manslaughter in the June 12. 2020 crash that killed Jasmin Casique-Negrete, 17, of Omaha, The Lincoln Journal Star reported.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP)  Ramsey County Attorney John Choi said Wednesday that he will no longer prosecute felony charges stemming from most low-level traffic stops, saying it's time to change a practice that has disproportionately impacted generations of minority communities.

Recognizing the role we play as prosecutors in perpetuating racial inequities that often result from these types of stops is an important first step in charting a new, less harmful course, Choi said in a statement.

Choi said his office will not prosecute crimes that are discovered solely because of a low-level traffic stop, such as broken tail light or expired license tabs. He said the new policy does not apply to situations that create a public safety hazard or when a vehicle is stopped because of a dangerous condition.

Choi said during a news conference that he used to believe that pretextual stops  in which police use a minor violation as a reason to pull someone over and search for a more serious crime  amounted to good policing.

I no longer believe that, he said, adding that these stops seldom result in seized contraband.

And sometimes the consequences can be fatal.

In 2016, Philando Castile, who was Black, was fatally shot by a suburban police officer in Ramsey County after he told the officer he had a gun. Castile and his girlfriend were told they had been pulled over because of a broken tail light. Choi's office prosecuted former St. Anthony police officer Jeronimo Yanez, who was acquitted of manslaughter.

In neighboring Hennepin County, 20-year-old motorist Daunte Wright, who was Black, was killed in April after a former Brooklyn Center police officer pulled him over for expired tabs and for having an air freshener hanging from his rearview mirror. Kim Potter has claimed she meant to use her Taser instead of her handgun when she shot Wright. She is scheduled to be tried for manslaughter this fall.

Police departments nationwide have been examining their traffic stop policies amid public outcry over these high-profile cases and some, including Minneapolis and Lansing, Michigan, have changed their policies to say officers will no longer stop drivers for minor infractions.

In Ramsey County, where Choi is prosecutor, St. Paul Police Chief Todd Axtell told his officers on Wednesday that minor violations should not be used as a primary reason for a traffic stop unless there is an articulable public safety concern. The city of Roseville, also in Ramsey County, has also stopped enforcing minor violations that don't pose a danger or safety concern.

Republican leaders and an association representing public safety professionals were quick to criticize the change.

Basically, the county attorney just announced his office wont uphold the law and wont prosecute those who break it, Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Executive Director Brian Peters said in a statement. Thats absurd, and is a slap in the face to victims of crime."

Senate Public Safety and Judiciary Committee Chair Warren Limmer, a Maple Grove Republican, said the public should be outraged and that Choi should be voted out of office.

The number one role of government is the safety of its citizens," Limmer said in a statement. "Its his job to put criminals away, not leave them on the streets. ... This change is an offense to the victims of crime -- including the people of color, children, and those in poverty. It endangers law enforcement officers doing their jobs, while putting innocent people at risk.

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter said public safety in response to fear-based rhetoric doesn't work.

One of the things that I think our officers will appreciate about this policy is, it gives them the opportunity to focus their time, their energy, their resources on the things that actually make us less safe," Carter said.
STRATFORD  With a more than 9-1 registration advantage over Republicans, it would seem as though finding a Democratic candidate for the vacant seat in the Town Councils 3rd District would be easy.

But filling that spot on the ballot has proven to be surprisingly difficult for party leaders.

Incumbent Paul Tavaras withdrew from the race last month, citing personal and professional reasons. The Democratic Town Committee held a special meeting Wednesday via Zoom to nominate a replacement.

DTC Chairman Steve Taccogna nominated Michael Singh, a former Town Council member who resigned in 2002 amid a controversy about whether or not he was a U.S. citizen.

In the years since, Singh has waged a number of losing primary battles. His most recent loss was against Tavaras in 2019, which he lost by a vote of 198 to 25.

After Taccogna put Singhs name forward  and no one else was nominated  3rd District resident Pat Patusky spoke up.

She recounted Singhs string of electoral defeats and controversies.

The Third District does not support Michael Singh and does not want him, Patusky said, adding that Democrats in the district werent approached to suggest a candidate.

Taccogna said that Singh had reached out to him, and that others had expressed interest in possibly running in the future, but not this year.

At the end of it Michael Singh was the lone willing candidate to run for D-3, he said.

Town Council member Greg Cann, D-5, said he had asked Tavaras if he had any suggestions for a replacement and Tavaras had answered in the negative.

There was an effort made to canvass the community to find someone that would replace Paul, Cann said.

Tavaras said Thursday he had suggested someone, but declined to say who. I would have to check with the person if they wanted their name out there, he said.

It was said I didnt want to render a name and I did, Tavaras said. Whether that person was approached or not, I dont know.

Though he did not participate early in the meeting, Singh eventually joined in  and suggested he could take legal action for false, defamatory statements made during the meeting.

Singh said he had helped put a playground in the 3rd District and aided with the creation of a farmers market.

I know how to write law, he said. Im the real deal. I know what Im doing.

Asked what his occupation was, he described himself as a business owner and investor, but was not more specific.

As the back-and-forth during Wednesdays meeting continued, other party members suggested holding off on nominating Singh.

Registrar of Voters Jim Simon cited a 2002 New York Times brief about a $4,000 fine imposed on Singh by the State Elections Enforcement Commission and recounted his many primary challenges to party-endorsed candidates.

Simon said he looked through local voting records and discovered Singh hadnt vote in last years election, and to me thats really telling.

I certainly dont feel positive about this nomination, said Will Farmer, the partys Town Council candidate in the 1st District. When we put our name on someone as an endorsed candidate it says a lot about the organization as well. So I would caution this body about doing that tonight.

State Rep. Phil Young made a motion to table the nomination, which was approved unanimously.

Taccogna said the party could revisit the issue at their monthly meeting scheduled for Sept. 22, and that they have until three weeks before the Nov. 2 election to come up with a candidate.

Though the 3rd District spot remains vacant, the party did approve one candidate Wednesday night: Ellen Fraint for Board of Zoning Appeals, who is replacing Laura Markis Johnson.

Fraint, a Philadelphia native who works as a pediatric oncologist in the Bronx, said she is excited to get more involved in town politics after moving to Stratford about three and a half years ago.
Jeopardy Productions, Inc. / Contributed Photo

Before Jeopardy! champ Matt Amodio returns to the podium, he first needed to chat with Gov. Ned Lamont.

Matt Amodio, a Ph.D. student studying computer science at Yale University, is the third-highest winning contestant in a regular season of Jeopardy. He has won $547,000, according to a video posted to Lamonts Twitter.
Today, we are issuing a call to action to all elected and appointed state and local officials to take a stand against the confrontational tactics of the anti-vaxxers, anti-maskers and COVID-19 deniers who are increasingly infecting our public meetings, our public discourse and our public life with an anger, irrationality and abuse which we fear will soon escalate into physical assaults and violence against elected and appointed public officials.

We have already seen evidence of such an escalation across America and right here in Connecticut.

It was less than a year ago when 13 militia members, angry with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Witmer for her COVID-19 restrictions, plotted to kidnap and then try her in the woods of Wisconsin. More recently, since Hawaii announced its vaccine or weekly test mandate, anti-vaxxers gathered nightly outside the home of Lt. Gov. Josh Green to yell into bullhorns and shine strobe lights into his windows; others distributed flyers attacking him as a Jew. Teachers in Texas and California have been assaulted. Board of Education members across America have received death threats, followed out of school buildings and told We know who you are. You can leave freely, but we will find you. A Missouri hospital administrator was cornered in a parking garage by a person accusing him of crimes against humanity. Free masks handed out at public meetings have been set ablaze by anti-maskers.

Here in Connecticut, weve seen Gov. Lamonts press conference on school health issues interrupted and shut down by anti-maskers who equated Connecticut with Nazi Germany and who followed the governor out to his vehicle, with one parent extending his middle finger to him. Police have been called to contentious public meetings. Some public officials are increasing the size of their security detail. Social media posts referencing legislators have been investigated by the police. One school board meeting was interrupted by protesters shouting through bullhorns, while others have been shut down by anti-mask protesters. A Black Lives Matter supporter was spit on by an anti-vaxxer at a rally at the state Capitol. In May, someone for some reason drove 20 miles from Southington to Hartford to fire six shots at the state Capitol. The lieutenant governor was recently accosted by a man flying vile flags on his pickup truck at a veterans event in Norwich.

Protesters in Connecticut are angry and on the edge, and they are getting angrier. In some instances, their words and actions have been praised by certain politicians. This needs to stop. It is only a matter of time until a small, angry group of individuals or one particularly disturbed person who is egged on with disinformation and partisan hubris escalates from spitting and hand gestures and screams of Nazism and criminal behavior to something much more dangerous. The time to prevent any future tragedy is now.

Like our U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys See Something, Say Something campaign, we are urging state and local elected and appointed officials to report all instances of harassment, threats, intimidation and violence to local police right away for their investigation and disposition. Be it an intimidating social media post, a threatening letter or phone call, a personal confrontation, a sign at a protest threatening retribution, an interrupted public meeting, or something else that your gut tells you is just not right, please report it right away to the proper authorities. Harassment and intimidation in the course of your public duties are not part of the job; they are potential crimes that should be reported to police.

Now is the time to take a stand against harassment and intimidation before it escalates into physical violence, injury and perhaps death.

Signed by Martin Looney, Senate president pro tempore; Bob Duff, majority leader; and 18 other Senate Democrats.
NEW LONDON  An apparent COVID-19 outbreak prompted Connecticut College to shift to a remote schedule as colleges and universities  all under vaccine mandate  have begun recording cases among newly arrived students.

In a statement on Tuesday, the private liberal arts college announced classes and activities were canceled for the day as it upgraded its status from a level one alert  green  to a level three alert  orange. This status means the colleges operations are reduced, with students in cautionary quarantine as needed, according to the school.

Like many colleges and universities in Connecticut, Connecticut College required students and employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 for the start of the fall semester, according to the schools website. Many have also adopted indoor mask mandates as cases have spiked around the state, fueled by the delta variant.

New London County, where the college is located, is one of the two Connecticut counties with high transmission of the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Since the school year began on Aug. 23, the college has performed 6,320 tests, with a total of 68 students and two employees testing positive for the virus.

The schools records indicate a small number of students tested positive during the first two weeks back on campus. Then there was a spike this week, with 57 students who tested positive so far during the week of Sept. 6 through Sept. 12, the data shows.

Cases at other schools

Several other colleges and universities around the state are also reporting cases as students returned to campus.

The University of Connecticut reported eight total cases as of Sept. 1, all at the universitys Storrs campus. Four of the cases were among residential students, while the other four involved off-campus students. One isolation bed is in use. The university also reports 11 cases among on-campus faculty and staff since Aug. 1.

UConn is among the schools requiring students to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Yale University in New Haven reported 19 cases in the previous seven days as of Sept. 7. Ten of the cases were reported were among students, while nine were among staff and faculty. Yale is also requiring students and employees to be vaccinated.

Quinnipiac University in Hamden reported 10 active cases as of Tuesday. The university required all students and employees to be fully vaccinated by Aug. 1. Students, faculty and staff must wear a mask indoors except when eating or in a living space or private workspace.

The University of New Haven reported six cases in the past week  four among off-campus students, two among residential students. The university is requiring students and employees to be vaccinated. Those who havent verified their vaccination status or been granted an exemption are not being allowed on campus, according to the schools website. Masks are required indoors regardless of whether someone is vaccinated.

Wesleyan University in Middletown reported 10 active cases as of Monday, according to the schools dashboard. The school is requiring students and employees to be vaccinated, and masks are required indoors.

The University of Hartford reported 11 active cases as of Tuesday. The school is requiring masks indoors and students and employees to be vaccinated in order to come to campus this fall.

Eastern Connecticut State University in Willimantic is requiring students to be fully vaccinated and is requiring masks indoors while on campus. The school reported a dozen cases the week of Aug. 30 between residential and off-campus students.

The University of Saint Joseph in West Hartford is requiring students and employees to be fully-vaccinated against COVID-19. The school is also following West Hartfords local indoor mask mandate, the school said in an Aug. 20 memo. The schools most recent test data shows four cases of COVID-19, all among commuter students.

Albert Magnus College in New Haven, Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and Trinity College in Hartford reported no new cases among students and employees. Like other schools, both are requiring masks and vaccinations.

Some schools have yet to publicly share COVID-19 cases on campus, or have not started testing. Southern Connecticut State University has not published a COVID-19 dashboard of cases on its website. Fairfield University said it plans to resume its COVID-19 dashboard on Sept. 17. At Fairfield University, students who had been vaccinated in the previous 90 days did not need to submit to testing at the start of the school year.

While Southern Connecticut State University had yet to publish its COVID-19 dashboard, Central Connecticut State University had and it showed no new cases recently.

The University of Bridgeport plans on performing random weekly testing among commuter students, residential students, employees, service providers and other community members. That testing will resume this fall, the school said.
Seeing the withdrawal of American armed forces from Afghanistan, and the tragic loss of 13 young American heroes to a suicide bomber near the Kabul airport, brought back vivid memories of my days at USAA during the Gulf War in the early 1990s. To help understand the situation, let me share some relevant background.

In May 1990, Iraqi President Saddam Hussein claimed that overproduction of oil by Kuwait and United Arab Emirates was an economic warfare against Iraq. On August 2 over 100,000 Iraqi troops invaded Kuwait and took over the country. During the ensuing weeks, the United Nations Security Council condemned the Iraqi invasion. Hundreds of thousands of Pakistani, Egyptian, Palestinian and Filipino guest workers fled Kuwait, as Iraq took 82 British citizens hostage in Kuwait and Iraq seized foreign embassies in Kuwait City. By August 28, Iraq formally annexed Kuwait, a naval blockade of Iraq had been implemented and Operation Desert Shield was launched by the U.S. and our allies.

During the build-up of coalition forces in the region, diplomatic efforts to convince Iraq to withdraw from Kuwait and release thousands of hostages repeatedly were rebuffed by Saddam Hussein. By early November, the U.S. had 320,000 troops in the region, joined by British, French and military forces from 37 other nations, as Iraq sent 200,000 more troops to Kuwait. By early January 1991, 580,000 Coalition troops were stationed in the Gulf region, opposing 540,000 Iraqi troops who had dug in and fortified their positions.

During Operation Desert Shield, USAA CEO Robert McDermott called a meeting of senior leadership of each USAA company to discuss how USAA will handle this situation, since nearly all the U.S. military are USAA members, and there was the potential for thousands of USAA members to lose their lives. I recall General McDermott starting the meeting by pointing out that thousands of USAA members were in harms way in the Gulf, and how would we handle a call from a surviving spouse when a USAA member loses their life during the upcoming war. General McDermott was concerned that a widow would have to make several calls to USAA and must go through the terrible experience of recounting what happened to their spouse to each USAA company. As each of us explained the process for what was required to handle such a situation at the P&C insurance company, the life insurance co., the bank, the investment management co., etc., it was apparent that a surviving spouse would have to make several painful calls, provide evidence of death and complete appropriate documentation several times as required by regulations governing each organization.

General McDermott, who himself had been a fighter pilot during WW2 in Europe, said he wanted one call to handle all USAA products. He wanted a compassionate, timely response. USAA lawyers basically said this was impossible, since each legal organization had such different requirements, enforced by their respective regulators. McD said anything less than a single call was unacceptable, and we needed to figure out a solution.

Ultimately, we came up with a plan. We would have death event teams, comprised of the best, most experienced member service personnel from each company, who would work together so a single call was all that would be required for a heart-broken widow. We established a new toll-free number to call at USAA. We trained our teams. We developed procedures to simplify the process and eliminate duplication, and we reached out to our members and their families to let them know how we would handle the situation if they were a casualty of war. We also offered to allow members to increase their USAA life insurance or even take out new life insurance policies while other life companies invoked war clauses terminating coverage for tens of thousands of national guard and reservists called to active duty. Since USAA is owned by its members, taking care of our members was our top priority.

Member response to our death event initiative was quick and positive. Members wrote to us, thanking us for taking such a proactive, compassionate response to the situation. They were appreciative that we had thought about this from their perspective and had developed a solution to make it easier on their surviving spouse if the unthinkable were to happen.

A few months later, on January 17, 1991 Operation Desert Shield became Operation Desert Storm after several efforts at diplomacy failed, and Coalition forces launched the first air attacks on Iraq and Iraqi forces in Kuwait. The nation watched as laser guided bombs hit their targets, Navy ships fired missiles, embedded media representatives shared the reality of war in real-time. Iraq launched Scud missiles at Israel and Saudi Arabia, trying to provoke a response from Israel and attempting to divide the Coalition. Fortunately, the U.S. Patriot missile system deployed to protect our allies in the middle east proved effective at shooting down the Scud missiles.

On January 22, Iraq set fire to Kuwaits oil fields, with over 600 oil fields on fire, and by January 25, Iraqi troops dumped millions of gallons of crude oil into the Persian Gulf, creating one of the worst ecological disasters in history. On January 29, Iraqi forces invaded Saudi Arabia. February 24, after six weeks of aerial bombardment, Coalition forces began ground operations in Kuwait and Southern Iraq. The next day 20,000 Iraqi troops surrendered, and by the end of February 100,000 Iraqi troops surrendered, and another 400,000 Iraqi troops had been captured. On March 3, Iraq accepted the terms of a ceasefire from the U.N. Security Council.

Overall, the U.S. and its allies flew more than 116,000 combat air sorties, dropped 88,500 tons of bombs over a six-week period that preceded the ground campaign, and the air campaign was so successful that the ground campaign was over in 100 hours, with minimal loss of life to Coalition forces. More than 500,000 American troops deployed to Saudi Arabia as part of Operation Desert Shield, and 697,000 U.S. military personnel took part in the Gulf War, with 299 tragically losing their lives.

As USAA members returned home, many took the time to write and thank USAA for the exceptional way we had prepared to handle the potential tragic loss of life and help their families. One USAA member expressed it well: I have no idea how other companies will handle things for my spouse when I die, but now I know how USAA will handle it, and I will never leave USAA  youve won my business for life. Other members expressed similar feelings, and when we did our annual USAA member survey in the summer of 1991, 94% said they would be members for life in response to the new question that we asked, prompted by the thousands of letters from returning members.

So, when you are faced with an unprecedented challenge in serving your members, think about it from your members perspective and treat them the same way you would want to be treated, or how you would want your family and loved ones to be treated  and youll ultimately find the right solution and end up with happy, satisfied members.
Pat Dunn, 81, of Cullman, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2021, after a three-year battle with dementia. Pat graduated from Andalusia High School in 1958 and married the same year. She moved to Cullman in 1966 and after several years of operating her own dress and wig store, Pat's Fa
Decade-long litigation between groups founded by Rev. Sun-Myung Moon nears its possible conclusion in D.C. Court of Appeals.









NATHANIEL EISEN

Washington City Paper

SEPTEMBER 7 2021





The property at 16th Street and Columbia Road NW in Adams Morgan affiliated with the Family Federation for World Peace and Unificationism International

The property at 16th Street and Columbia Road NW in Adams Morgan affiliated with the American arm of the Unification Church





If the Sunni-Shia schism or Martin Luthers revolt against Catholicism had taken place in an American courtroom, they might have resembled the scene at the D.C. Court of Appeals (or rather, on its split-screen simulcast) on June 17. There, lawyers representing two of the main factions of the post-Reverend Sun Myung Moon Unification Church debated whether Unificationism was a religious denomination or a nondenominational movement and which exact peace festivals (there were many) Reverend Moon supported while he was alive. They became particularly entangled with the meta-issue of how to characterize their fight, with the defendants claiming it was a dispute over religious doctrine and leadership and therefore off limits to the court under the First Amendment, and the plaintiffs claiming it was a case about misappropriation of church property and violations of nonprofit law.





Americans under the age of 40 are far less likely to have heard of the Unification Church than their parents. Readers may also not know the Washington Times newspaper and the seemingly permanently-under-construction gray stone building at the corner of 16th Street and Columbia Road NW in Adams Morgan are both owned by the American arm of the Church. They also might be surprised by the millions of dollars the Church-affiliated nonprofit at the center of this litigation spent subsidizing the seemingly incongruous corps of the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Brookland and the Contras in Nicaragua. They might not have even heard of a mass wedding. But we get ahead of ourselves.





The oral arguments on June 17 were for an appeal of a D.C. Superior Court ruling from March 2019. That court found partially in favor of the plaintiffs, led by Family Federation for World Peace and Unification International. FFWPUI claims to lead the global religious movement of Unificationism, and is helmed at present by the widow of Reverend Moon, Hak Ja Han. It sued Reverend Moons eldest son, Preston Moon, his handpicked directors of the board of the nonprofit corporation Unification Church International, and UCI itself, in 2011 over a series of decisions that culminated in the UCI board donating assets, whose value was conservatively estimated at roughly half a billion dollars, to an unaffiliated Swiss foundation. Agreeing with the plaintiffs core arguments, the Superior Court ordered the offending directors to be replaced and the value of the assets returned to the nonprofit. The caseone of just several legal skirmishes among the factionshas been closely followed by members of the Church, estimated to number three million worldwide. They now await the ruling from the Court of Appeals.





That courts decision could either end the proceedings (assuming an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court is not pursued and granted) or return the case to the lower court, likely for a jury trial. Regardless of the outcome, the case has already illuminated how Washington has continued to be a locus of business, religious, and ideological activities for the Unification movement. It has also illustrated the tensions between a charismatic religious movement (one led by a single individual whose followers view them as imbued with superhuman wisdom, spiritual, or other powers) and the secular rules by which American church-owned corporations operate.





The Unification Church





Reverend Moon founded the Unification Church in the Republic of Korea in the 1950s. The religious movement is dedicated to the unification of Christianity and eventually all religions under its banner, and its liturgy and practices contain a mix of Christian and Korean shamanistic elements. Moon, who proclaimed himself a messianic figure, eventually followed some of his early disciples to the United States in 1972. He and his wife Hak Ja Han, viewed by believers as the True Parents of Humanity, settled in New Yorks Hudson Valley and raised a family while also founding church branches in numerous other countries.





Initially known for the mass weddings of thousands it conducted among believers, the church was considered a cult by many in the U.S. in the 1960s and 1970s. This was especially true among the parents who hired so-called deprogrammers to bring back their young adult children who had become devotees. The U.S. government was also suspiciousin the late 1970s, Congress investigated Moon and his top deputies for connections to a Korean Central Intelligence Agency campaign to bribe members of Congress and otherwise sway public policy. In 1982, Moon was convicted of tax fraud and served 13 months in prison.





In 1977, Moon established Unification Church International, a nonprofit corporation incorporated in D.C., to hold church assets, and in 1982, he founded the Washington Times. The reliably conservative and bombastic paper helped Moon gain acceptance and influence upon his release from prison, especially, though not exclusively, in Republican political circles. At a certain point, UCI took ownership of the Times parent company and, according to the briefs in this case, subsidized the Times with somewhere between $1 billion and $2 billion between 1982 and 2006.





Simmering battles between Hak Ja Han, and three of his children, Hyun-Jin (Preston), In-Jin (Tatiana), and Hyung-Jin (Sean) Moon for control of the religious movement, its money, and institutions, have erupted since his death in 2012. These were presaged by actions Reverend Moon took in his final decades.





In 1994, Reverend Moon declared that the Unification Church had achieved its providential purposes and declared an end of the church era. Under this new doctrine, Reverend and Mrs. Moon opened their mass wedding ceremonies to non-Unificationists and redirected some resources away from spreading Unificationism and toward initiatives ostensibly promoting families, peace, and interreligious dialogue. In 1998, Moon named Preston, his second-eldest living son, vice president of FFWPUI, which had been recently created to direct the movement globally under the new doctrine. During the inauguration ceremony, Reverend Moon named Preston the fourth Adam, indicating, some church scholars and officials and Preston himself say, that Preston would be Reverend Moons spiritual successor, although Hak Ja Han, who was publicly venerated with Reverend Moon during his life, has also claimed that title since his death.





In 2006, Preston added the titles of president of UCI and chair of its board of directors, and his hold on key institutions seemed near complete. However, after Preston sent a letter critical of church direction to his parents in 2008, they replaced him with his younger brother Sean, then pastor of the powerful Unification Church in Seoul, as vice president of FFWPUI and in several other institutional roles. The previously subterranean schism erupted.





The circumstances and significance of the declaration of the end of church era, of Prestons removal from various positions, and Seans ascendancyand even more so the ultimate question of the direction and spiritual leadership of the Church todayare all disputed. (Sean and Hak Ja Han are, if anything, more estranged than she and Preston are. In 2019, Sean filed a lawsuit in federal court in New York seeking to be named rightful leader of the Church, which was dismissed. He and his U.S. congregation, the Sanctuary Church in Pennsylvania, have gained notoriety for his apocalyptic sermons, devotion to assault weapons, and his attempt to supplant Hak Ja Han via a posthumous arranged marriage for his father. Meanwhile, Tatiana, with the support of Sean, staged her own board takeover of the American arm of the Church in 2008 before resigning several years later, at least in part due to an extramarital affair.)





The Lawsuit





One prize all factions would like to claim is the tax-paying nonprofit Unification Church International, which now goes exclusively by the acronym UCI. When Reverend Moon formed UCI, its articles of incorporation charged it with supporting activities of Unification Churches around the world as well as educational and other activities in keeping with the principles of the Unification Church. UCI was the holding company for many for-profit enterprises, such as a real estate company called US Property Development Corporation and a lucrative fishing and seafood empire known as True World Foods, as well as net money losers such as the Times. For years it disbursed funds both from these enterprises and from donations from Unification Church entities, especially in Japan. (Multiple Japanese widows filed lawsuits claiming they were pressured to give money to the Church to ensure their deceased husbands souls would be saved.)





FFWPUI, now effectively under the leadership of Hak Ja Han, and the Church arm in Japan that provided the majority of donated funds to UCI have sued Preston Moon and other directors of UCI, as well as the corporation itself. They accuse them of unlawfully diverting half of UCIs assets from their intended purposes, in breach of their fiduciary duties as directors of a nonprofit.









In the years following Prestons election as UCI board chair in 2006, the Board elected other directors loyal to him and what he claims is his non-hierarchical, non-sectarian vision of the Unification Church. These board members changed the name of the nonprofit to simply UCI. They amended its articles of incorporation, including by removing all references to the Unification Church, God, and the Divine Principle (the movements first core text containing the compiled teachings of Reverend Moon). They replaced these terms with a reference to the principles and theology of the Unification Movement, which they say is synonymous with Unification Church, but better reflects Prestons (and, they claim, Reverend Moons) nonsectarian vision. (The difference between movement and church took up hours of deposition testimony).





The plaintiffs cite emails from UCIs lawyers who worked on those changes suggesting they were intended to allow for the transactions that immediately followed. Most prominently, UCI transferred title to multiple real estate assets in South Korea then worth at least half a billion dollars, to a Swiss entity named Kingdom Investments Foundation. The defendants claim that the donations only purposes were to gain preferential tax treatment and secure financing for final construction of Parc1, a commercial development long sought by Reverend Moon, on one of the parcels of real estate in Seoul. (Construction on the dual-tower buildingthe second tallest in Seoulfinished in 2020. The shorter of the two towers sold for roughly $1.2 billion). They also claim that the donations would have been acceptable under the old articles of incorporation regardless, and that the ultimate profits from the assets will be used by the Swiss foundation to support the aims of the Unification Movement.





The core legal arguments in the appeal concern the First Amendments religion clauses. From the outset, the defendants have argued that the courts did not have jurisdiction to hear this litigation, because of a rule often known as the ecclesiastical abstention doctrine. The Supreme Court has said that the First Amendment requires secular courts to refrain from deciding what are essentially religious questionsissues such as religious doctrine or leadership. These courts may decide disputes over church property, but only where they can do so without doing the above, either by deferring to an established religious authority that has already determined the rightful owner of the property or by relying on neutral principles of law.





The plaintiffs claim this is not a dispute that implicates theology or church succession. It is, they say, purely about whether the UCI directors breached their fiduciary duties under nonprofit law, first by amending the articles of incorporation and then through the donations to KIF. The trial court ultimately agreed with them and granted summary judgment, which it is only supposed to do if there are no genuine disputes on any factual issues that would affect its application of the law.





The defendants claim that the trial court erredand that in siding for the plaintiffs, it did exactly what the ecclesiastical abstention doctrine forbids. They point to the fact that the trial court relied heavily on its finding that the 2010 changes to the articles of incorporation were significanta judgment they say is inextricably linked to interpretation of religious terms. They further contend that the trial courts remedieswhich included ordering the removal of Preston Moon and the other offending directors, restitution to UCI of the value of the assets transferred to KIF, and selection of new directors in consultation with FFWPUIconstitute impermissibly taking sides in an ongoing church schism.





As the briefs and oral arguments make clear, one complicating factor in the case is that prior to Prestons takeover, no matter what UCIs bylaws said, Reverend Moon effectively controlled appointments to the UCI board, including Prestons in 2006, just as, no matter what UCIs articles of incorporation at the time said about the corporations purposes, the practice seems to have been to fund those organizations Reverend Moon selected. Its not immediately clear which way these facts cut. The plaintiffs cited evidence that Reverend Moon opposed some of the challenged donations by Preston and that the major donation to KIF was deliberately kept from him, demonstrating the break from past practice. But these practices also demonstrate the artificiality of the plaintiffs reliance on these secular corporate documents as the source of so-called neutral principles of law.





Those donations before 2006 should also be of interest both to church members and wider society. For example, the defendants have claimed that prior to Prestons takeover, less than 5 percent of the donations made by UCI went to brick and mortar churches or Unification Church-affiliated entities. Instead, donations went to subsidizing the Washington Times, as well as other political and cultural activities favored by Reverend Moon, including the Kirov Ballet Academy, Bridgeport University in Connecticut, and the anti-communist organization CAUSA, which has been accused of funding right-wing paramilitaries, including the Contras, in Latin America.





It is not apparent how much, if any, money donated by American church members or raised by their selling trinkets in airports and door to door wound up in the coffers of UCI. At the very least, those donations and effortssuch as the $2500 per family solicited to build a multi-million dollar events center in Las Vegasfreed up UCI funds for acquiring real estate and to fund Reverend Moons chosen causes.





It seems that the most likely paths the Court of Appeals could take would be 1) to affirm the lower courts grant of summary judgment for the plaintiffs, 2) overturn that order but direct the case to go to trial or 3) direct the lower court to grant summary judgment to the defendants on the basis of their ecclesiastical abstention arguments, leading to dismissal of the case.





The procedural history taken on its own suggests the latter option is unlikely. A three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals in 2015 overturned the lower courts dismissal on ecclesiastical abstention grounds, arguing it was premature. Judge Stephen Glickman was one of the judges on that panel and also serves on the panel hearing the current appeal, perhaps indicating at least one judge unpersuaded by the abstention arguments. In 2018, the Court of Appeals upheld a grant of preliminary injunction that required UCI not to donate any more fundsagain, over the defendants First Amendment arguments. However, with the more voluminous record now before it, the court may decide differently.





Michael Helfand, a professor at Pepperdine Universitys Caruso School of Law who has studied the origins and development of the ecclesiastical abstention doctrine, thinks dismissal is likely, given the law as it stands today. When asked about a more extreme hypothetical raised in oral arguments of a nonprofit founded to fund Lutheran churches, whose articles were amended so that it would henceforward fund Catholic churches, Helfand didnt think a court could find those changes significant enough to violate some principle of nonprofit law without itself violating the present ecclesiastical abstention doctrine. While it may seem common sense that there are certain types of religious propositions we should be able to tell the difference between as he paraphrased, Courts generally, at least since the 1960s, have not said things like that.





Judge Glickman indicated some attraction to the second option of a full trial during oral arguments. Noting the numerous findings of the trial court judge as to a lack of care, diligence, etc. on the part of the directors (which might technically fall outside the scope of the duty of loyalty claim), as well as hints of self-dealing, Judge Glickman stated, in a colloquy with the defense attorney, it might be the case that we would say summary judgment should not have been granted; thats different from saying that the whole case has to end because we must abstain from treating of religious issues.





Finally, if the district court upholds the lower court findings, it will likely be in large part because the Directors donated over half of UCIs assets at once to a foundation over which they had no effective control. The judges at oral arguments were clearly wrestling with the question of why the donation to KIF would be outside the purposes of the 1980 articles, if subsidies to the Washington Times, the ballet company, and other non-religious causes were not. They seemed reluctant to endorse the idea that Reverend Moons approval or disapproval was enough to distinguish these donations, since nowhere do the 1980 articles make reference to seeking such approval and its unclear whether nonprofit directors could legally base their decisions on the whims of a single individual with no formal role in the organization. However, they also were troubled by the fact that the UCI directors had no real ability to predict, much less control, what KIF would do with the proceeds of selling the developed real estate assets. As stated by Judge Joshua Deahl during oral arguments: They attached no strings to it at all to make sure it goes to its purpose, which has a bit of a stink to it, counsel. (The defense argued that the donation agreement and Swiss Foundations own founding documents bound it to funding Unification Movement activities; the judges were skeptical of the enforceability of those documents).





Attempts to reach the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification International were unsuccessful. Defendants UCI and Preston Moon declined to comment through their lawyers.





American corporate law is dedicated to creating some daylight between the fictitious legal entities of corporationsi.e. organizationsand the so-called natural persons who run and staff them. What happens when those lines get blurred and the additional element of religion gets introduced? Something like the scene on June 17.
Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

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Mostly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 88F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

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Elizabeth City, NC (27909)

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Mostly cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

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Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 68F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.
Dalton, GA (30720)

Today

Cloudy early, then off and on rain showers for the afternoon. High 78F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

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Ronald Leland Dickison of Ironton, Ohio passed away Saturday, September 11, 2021 at home surrounded by his family. Ronald was born November 11, 1942 in Ashland, Kentucky. He was the son of the late Ben Dickison and Dorothy Gillium. There will be a celebration of life, 1:00 P.M., Saturday, Se
Sunbury, PA (17801)

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Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Showers with a possible thunderstorm early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Sunbury, PA (17801)

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Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 84F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

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Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm this evening, then some lingering showers still possible overnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
When decent, law-abiding folk accuse the Metropolitan Police of systemic corruption, harassment of the innocent, and racial discrimination, it's time for the Government to sit up and take notice.

Seven people who have experienced or witnessed the Met's ineptitude and dishonesty have written a letter to the Prime Minister in which they call for greater accountability and better oversight.

They also demand that the Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Dame Cressida Dick  whom they accuse of having 'presided over a culture of incompetence'  shouldn't have her five-year contract extended when it expires next April.

These complainants, brought together by the Mail, come from different backgrounds. They represent many shades of political opinion. But they are united in their deep distrust of Britain's largest police force.

People have written a letter to the Prime Minister calling for more accountability of Met Police. They say Dame Cressida Dick (pictured) shouldn't have her five-year contract extended

What was done to these people, or those dear to them, by the Met could happen to any of us. This is a shocking indictment.

We are brought up to have faith in the police as an institution. How is that possible when we learn of such unforgivable behaviour?

The Hampshire home of the late Lord Bramall, an elderly war hero, was invaded by police in the early hours on the basis of allegations of paedophile abuse made by Carl Beech, a palpable fantasist.

Bramall told his son Nick that 'he had never been so mortally wounded, even in battle'.

Doreen Lawrence had to endure many years of indifference (which she partly attributes to racism) on the part of the Metropolitan Police after the murder of her son, Stephen, in 1993.

Nick Bramall and Baroness Lawrence were among the victims assembled by this newspaper. Their stories are very different but they share a common theme. The Met can be overbearing, devious and callous.

Oh, when the excesses and errors are finally uncovered the force is very good at saying sorry.

Lady Brittan, whose entirely innocent husband, Leon, was harried by the police as he was dying, received profuse apologies after his death. What good were they to her or him?

In 2005, Dame Cressida was in charge of the operation which resulted in the appalling death of the wholly innocent Brazilian, Jean Charles de Menezes, in Stockwell Station (pictured)

Actions count louder than words, and again and again the story is the same.

No officer involved in Operation Midland  the botched investigation that resulted in false accusations against Lord Bramall, Lord Brittan, and another complainant, Harvey Proctor  received any official sanction.

Dame Cressida Dick herself is living proof that if you work for the Met, it's possible to foul up and survive.

Home Secretary Priti Patel and London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who share responsibility for appointing the next Commissioner, appear poised to give Dame Cressida another two years.

How can this be justified?

In June, an official report described her force as 'institutionally corrupt', and concluded that she had personally placed 'hurdles' in the way of a search for the truth about the death of Daniel Morgan.

Police pumped seven bullets into Jean Charles de Menezes' (above) head. No officer, including Cressida Dick, faced any charges

Mr Morgan, a private investigator, was brutally killed in a London car park in 1987.

The Met has never found his murderer, and appears to have gone out of its way not to. His brother, Alastair, is another of the signatories of the letter to the PM.

Baroness O'Loan, who led the recent investigation, accused Dame Cressida Dick of 'obfuscation'.

You'd think that would constitute a knock-out blow, and precipitate her resignation, since Metropolitan Police Commissioners are not supposed put up smokescreens during official inquiries.

But she survived, as she always does, and as senior Met police officers who err usually do.

She emerged unscathed earlier this year after her force provoked outrage by outlawing a peaceful vigil on Clapham Common to honour Sarah Everard, who'd been abducted and murdered by a serving police officer, PC Wayne Couzens.

The recruitment of Couzens, whose former colleagues at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary nearly ten years ago allegedly nicknamed him 'the rapist', might in itself have been thought grounds for Dame Cressida to consider her position. I don't suppose it crossed her mind to fall on her sword.

But then she has always had the amazing knack of evading responsibility.

In 2005, she was in overall charge of the operation which resulted in the appalling death of the wholly innocent Brazilian, Jean Charles de Menezes, in a London Underground station. Police pumped seven bullets into his head.

As usual, no officer, including Cressida Dick, faced any charges, and no one was reprimanded.

All that happened was that the Met was found guilty of breaching health and safety laws, and putting the public at risk.

Dame Cressida emerged unscathed earlier this year after her force provoked outrage by outlawing a peaceful vigil on Clapham Common (tributes pictured) to honour Sarah Everard

Sarah Everard (pictured) was murdered by PC Wayne Couzens. The recruitment of Couzens might have been thought grounds for Dame Cressida to consider her position

It was fined 175,000 and ordered to pay 385,000 costs. That's taxpayers' money.

It is true, of course, that some of the allegations made by the seven signatories don't concern the Commissioner personally. For example, although she sanctioned Operation Midland, she can't be held culpable for all its failings.

On the other hand, in 2019 she refused to allow an inquiry into the conduct of officers involved in Operation Midland after ex-High Court judge Sir Richard Henriques revealed they had used false evidence to obtain a search warrant for the raids.

Dame Cressida ludicrously said that an inquiry would be 'completely improper'.

Here is someone for whom drawing a veil over her own mistakes, and those of subordinates allegedly at fault, has become second nature. As the signatories rightly say, the Met is not adequately accountable.

When there is a supposedly impartial investigation of its misbehaviour, this is carried out by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which often finds in the Met's favour.

Home of the war hero Lord Bramall was invaded by police after claims of paedophile abuse made by Carl Beech (pictured)

Unsurprisingly, it was its equally accommodating predecessor, the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), that gave the Met and Dame Cressida a clean bill of health over the killing of Jean Charles de Menezes.

I don't suggest that she is in any way a bad person. No doubt she is intelligent and diligent.

But she has become institutionalised, and as part of that process has lost whatever capacity she once had for examining herself and her force.

What is needed is someone with a new perspective from outside London who can get to grips with the Met's shortcomings.

It's risible to suggest that such a person doesn't exist in the upper echelons of the police, and therefore Dame Cressida might as well be reappointed for a further couple of years.

When Boris Johnson became London Mayor in 2008, one of his first actions was to ease out Ian Blair, then Metropolitan Commissioner, who has always been a supporter of Dame Cressida.

If only Priti Patel and Sadiq Khan had the courage to bid her farewell, rather than clinging on to her in a half-hearted way out of a misguided belief that they can't find anyone better.

Here are seven victims from all walks of life with first-hand knowledge of the Met's deficiencies. Their criticisms are devastating. I believe they speak on behalf of most law-abiding people.

Needless to say, an efficient police force is essential in the capital and elsewhere, and I'm certain society couldn't begin to function without the dedication of ordinary police officers.

But Britain's most senior police officer should stand down now. If the politicians daren't get rid of her, our only hope is that she has enough sense of honour to accept that the time has come for her to go.
Unveiling a knee-jerk policy that's doomed to failure by ordering Border Force officials to turn around boats laden with immigrants in the Channel (hoping they float back to France), Priti Patel is back in the headlines 'protecting' UK borders.

Patel claims these new tactics are legally sanctioned. Whatever. The 'policy' is laughable.

Will officials use extending cattle prods to turn around leaking inflatable mattresses and dinghies laden with babies and pregnant women so they point towards Calais and shout 'on your way?'

Even if the migrants don't drown, even if they end up back in Calais it will make little difference. They will only try again.

According to the Mayor of Calais it is impossible to stop the boats with 300 to 400 kilometres of coastline to patrol day and night. He asks 'are we supposed to put a policeman every 100 metres?'

Border Force officials claim the five hour delays are because of the need to check covid paperwork- but that's not the truth, according to travel experts. Out of 40 desks at one terminal, all but six remained empty one day this week

It's just another example of Priti Patel's determination to appear tough at all costs.

But as the Home Secretary grapples with the slippery French who refuse to comply with her demands in spite of being showered with millions of our cash, a far larger group of people are trying to enter the UK quite legally - a group which (bizarrely) she has chosen to ignore.

Instead of bobbing about with binoculars off Dungeness, Border Force officials ought to be turning their attention to the scandalous scenes on the frontline at Heathrow and other airports.

It isn't quite as bad as crossing the channel in a leaky inflatable boat but these people - holidaymakers, ordinary families, pensioners, businessmen and women  are going through hell.

They have all complied with official requests for reams of tedious covid paperwork.

They've shelved out hundreds of pounds (around 105 for a couple - often more than the cost of their tickets) to comply with the bureaucratic form-filing and unnecessary testing required by the British government.

Will officials use extending cattle prods to turn around leaking inflatable mattresses and dinghies laden with babies and pregnant women so they point towards Calais and shout 'on your way?' Migrants are seen being taken into Dover by Border Force on Wednesday

Unveiling a knee-jerk policy that's doomed to failure by ordering Border Force officials to turn around boats laden with immigrants in the Channel (hoping they float back to France ), Priti Patel is back in the headlines 'protecting' UK borders

They are in possession of passports, identity cards, filled-in locator forms, proof of address, double jabbing, etc etc etc.

Yet currently, anyone entering the UK by air is being treated disgracefully, forced to ignore social distancing, shuffling in queues for hour after hour with no food, refreshments, seating or support. Walking miles because there are no shuttle buses.

Border Force officials claim the five hour delays are because of the need to check covid paperwork- but that's not the truth, according to travel experts. Out of 40 desks at one terminal, all but six remained empty one day this week. There have been three to five hour queues every day. Where are all the missing staff?

For weeks now, Border Force officials have been responsible for huge queues at many airports including Manchester, Luton, Gatwick and Heathrow- even when the compulsory paperwork has already been checked and double checked at the airport an where they embarked on their flight back into the UK. They say they are double-checking identities. How hard is that with modern technology?

Our traffic light system is a confusing joke and airline and airport bosses, travel operators and ferry companies say it's not fit for purpose, the most complicated in Europe. At present anyone returning from a red list country, even if double jabbed - must isolate for 10 days in a hotel and take three PCR tests.

Unveiling a knee-jerk policy that's doomed to failure by ordering Border Force officials to turn around boats laden with immigrants in the Channel (hoping they float back to France), Priti Patel is back in the headlines 'protecting' UK borders

At present, everyone arriving from amber or green countries must take a PCR test within two days of arrival even if double jabbed - the government is considering removing this requirement next week, but nothing is definite.

Heathrow's terminals resemble the arrivals zone in a banana republic, not a country which claims to be one of the most welcoming and sophisticated in the developed world.

Women have been forced to breastfeed babies standing up, children are crying and upset, fights have broken out and tempers are (unsurprisingly) frayed.

What crime have these travellers committed that results in being treated like prisoners on remand?

They have dared to leave the sovereignty of the British Isles and travel to another country.

They have weighed up the government's confusing and irrational travel 'guidance' and the conflicting messaging from the Foreign Office and the Department of Transport and they've thought - sod it - we're going away for some sun and a break before the schools start up.

Or even crazier, they are foreigners who thought coming to the UK for business or pleasure would be a good idea.

You might well suspect that there's a secret government plan at work here designed to deter Brits from exercising a basic human right - taking a holiday abroad rather than an over-priced staycation in over-crowded Cornwall.

Such lack of patriotism must be punished!

It would certainly explain why nobody in government seems to give a monkey's.

Instead of bobbing about with binoculars off Dungeness, Border Force officials ought to be turning their attention to the scandalous scenes on the frontline at Heathrow and other airports. Migrants are seen being brought into Dover by Border Force on Wednesday

Now war has broken out between the owners of Heathrow and the Border Force officials. This week, the airport tweeted that anyone arriving should 'expect unacceptable queue times' at the Border. So what can they do about it? Turn around in mid-air?

Heathrow airport owners have an agreement with Border Force that 95% of arrivals with UK or EU passports should be processed within 25 minutes, and others within 45 minutes.

Clearly, the system has totally broken down, with Border Force officials blaming families with children under 12, who are not able to use the e-passport gates.

It's not as if large numbers of families arriving home at the end of the school holidays is a surprise - experts predict the number of arrivals every week of the year and adjust manning levels.

The other week we were told there weren't enough officials at Heathrow because they were ordered away from the airport to deal with an influx of immigrants elsewhere.

Heathrow bosses say Border Force missed their targets for six out of twelve months in 2020.

The inept head of the Force who presided over the chaos and queues during the pandemic has been awarded an OBE and is retiring - only in the UK could an MMM person- (male, middle aged and mediocre) - be thanked with a gong for doing a job so badly.

He's being replaced with yet another MMM person, hopefully not one who will blame 12 year olds for five hour queues.

It's time to call in the people who run Morrisons or Sainsbury to get a grip on staffing levels and instill a can-do mindset at Border Control. It's can't be harder than predicting sales of ice cream and barbecue meats in hot weather.
All totalitarian regimes understand the power that stems from controlling history.

In Stalinist Russia, textbooks were revised so often that students frequently had to do without them.

Hitler wrongly blamed Jews  among other minorities  for Germanys defeat in World War One.

As George Orwell wrote in his novel Nineteen Eighty-Four: Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.

Todays woke zealots have learnt the same lesson. They exploit history as an instrument of propaganda  and as a means of bullying the rest of us.

The trend is everywhere, from tearing down statues and removing historical artefacts that do not conform with the new orthodoxy to the cancellation of long-dead figures who fail modern purity tests.

To tar him as a racist misses one obvious point: this was the very man who played a key role in defeating the Nazi regime, the foulest, most racist tyranny in history

Only this week, it emerged that a charity named after Sir Winston Churchill has taken the ludicrous step of distancing itself from the great wartime Prime Minister over his purported views on race.

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust removed pictures of its namesake from its website and rebranded itself the Churchill Fellowship.

In a blog post, the charity opined: Many of [Churchills] views on race are widely seen as unacceptable today, a view that we share.

Furious volunteers accused the Trust of rewriting history and surrendering to cancel culture.

Churchill, a racist? He was certainly a complex man who held a number of competing views throughout his life  and, over a long and distinguished career in public service, used language that many might now see as offensive.

But to tar him as a racist misses one obvious point: this was the very man who played a key role in defeating the Nazi regime, the foulest, most racist tyranny in history.

Todays woke zealots have learnt the same lesson. They exploit history as an instrument of propaganda  and as a means of bullying the rest of us

However, Churchill is only the latest example of this grossly oversimplified view of the past. Only last month, the Scottish government announced that it intends to tackle what it called white privilege in the school curriculum by highlighting the historical role of Scotland in the colonies and the slave trade.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with Scottish schoolchildren learning about that terrible crime  and indeed their countrys proud record in helping to bring about its abolition.

Yet Holyroods historically illiterate new guidance to teachers goes far further than that.

It claims, bizarrely, that race is merely a system that serves to enable capitalism, adding that the concept of race was invented to justify... murder, exploitation and brutalisation.

The Tate Gallery, meanwhile, recently issued a warning that the great British painter J.M.W. Turner should not be idolised, since he once briefly owned a single share in a Jamaican sugar plantation that used slave labour.

The Tates moral stance is highly questionable. The gallery was created thanks to the largesse of Sir Henry Tate, who made his fortune from a sugar empire built on the slave trade. Turner, for his part, was actually a liberal supporter of abolition.

Along with my fellow Cambridge historian Professor Robert Tombs, I am the editor of History Reclaimeds website, on which we will publish briefings and articles that will pre-sent a more balanced view of the past: one based on evid- ence rather than fashion- able opinion

The contemporary obsession with imperialism and race has even seen the name of the 19th century Prime Minister William Gladstone removed from a Liverpool universitys hall of residence because of Gladstones family connection to the slave trade. In Edinburgh, a tower named after the 18th century philosopher David Hume has also been renamed because of his problematic views on race.

But now, at last  and thank goodness  a fightback has started against these ideolo- gues who hold our heritage in contempt.

A group of university scholars has launched History Reclaimed, a campaign aimed at employing reason and evidence to challenge the distortions of the woke agenda.

Along with my fellow Cambridge historian Professor Robert Tombs, I am the editor of History Reclaimeds website, on which we will publish briefings and articles that will pre-sent a more balanced view of the past: one based on evid- ence rather than fashion- able opinion.

We hope that the initiative will serve as a valuable resource of academic rigour and clear analysis in a climate of indoctrination and wilful falsification.

Clearly, many people in Britain have been crying out for such a step. On its first day, our website attracted no fewer than 25,000 visits.

As a historian, I am delighted that we seem to have tapped into the public mood. I share the widespread exasperation at the rise of the woke mindset, which views the past only through the narrow lens of present values.

It is precisely because I cherish the real study of history that I know it should never become a plaything of politics or a weapon in the culture wars.

Real history is about trying to view the past objectively, by marshalling and interpreting hard evidence. But social justice warriors are not interested in debating evidence, only in pushing their political agenda

Imported from the United States, where it has swept through the university sector, the so-called social justice movement is already causing real damage in Britain. By disingenuously presenting our heritage as nothing more than a shameful narrative of exploitation, its woke warriors erode faith in western civilisation itself, pour scorn on our civic institutions and destroy the national solidarity that is vital for democracy.

This monomaniacal fixation with rewriting the past has other disturbing consequences. It is highly divisive, splitting everyone into two classes  oppressors and victims  and whipping up hostility against the former. It is inimical to freedom of thought and speech, which are as essential in academia as they are in wider society.

On campuses today, the atmosphere increasingly resembles a witchhunt against those who depart from progressive orthodoxy.

The distinguished Oxford professor Nigel Biggar discovered this when he dared to suggest that the British Empire was morally mixed  that is, it had both positive and negative aspects. He was vilified for this heresy.

Real history is about trying to view the past objectively, by marshalling and interpreting hard evidence. But social justice warriors are not interested in debating evidence, only in pushing their political agenda.

That is why their version of history is so simplistic. Complicated events are shrunk to fairytales of good versus evil. Great figures, not least Churchill, become pantomime villains, stripped of context and nuance.

A lifetime studying history has taught me one simple truth: to understand the present, we must examine the past. If only our leaders had a serious grasp of Afghan or Iraqi history, they might not have perpetrated such a litany of foreign-policy disasters in those countries recently  just as a deeper knowledge of Irelands past could have eliminated some of the terrible mistakes made in Ulster.

Ignorance is one thing. But deliberately manipulating history can have dangerous outcomes. Right-wing Holocaust deniers twist the facts about World War Two for their own grotesque ends, just as some Left-wing historians have downplayed the horrors of Soviet Russia and Maoist China.

Whatever the purpose, distorting history in this way can lead to dangerous ignorance about the past  and with it the risk of repeating its mistakes.
A young bride flew 800 miles with her wedding dress to enjoy an emotional 'first dance' with her 94-year-old grandfather who was too sick to make it to her big day.

Natalie Browning, 24, was heartbroken at learning that her beloved granddad Nelson would be unable to make the trip from Florida to Virginia to watch her tie the knot - having suffered a stroke just two weeks before the big day.

He had been looking forward to dancing with his granddaughter on her wedding night for months, but his condition meant he was unable to travel.

Together again: A bride flew 800 miles to surprise her ailing grandfather in her wedding dress - after he suffered a stroke two weeks before her wedding, leaving him unable to attend

On the move: Natalie Browning, 24, flew from Florida to Virginia the day after her wedding, taking her long white bridal gown with her so that her granddad, Nelson, could see her in it

Nearly there! She wanted to keep the visit a complete surprise, so she snuck her way into his home and got dressed in her gown before greeting him

Determined to see him, Natalie decided to surprise Nelson by flying across the country with her wedding dress so they could have that special moment together.

The beautiful bride documented her journey in a touching video, which shows her making the 800-mile trip with her long white wedding dress beside her at every turn.

In the clip, Natalie is seen leaving her home in the early hours of the morning, proudly holding up her gown - which is wrapped in a protective pink bag - for the camera as she heads out of her front door.

She is then filmed walking through the airport and boarding her first plane with the long garment, before pausing in a second terminal to apply some makeup for the big surprise.

After landing in Florida, the newlywed climbs into the back of a large SUV that sped her away to her grandfather's home - where she got dressed in secret.

Reunited! Natalie was left heartbroken when she learned that Nelson wouldn't be able to make it to her wedding - particularly because he'd been looking forward to dancing with her

Heartwarming: Luckily, Natalie's surprise visit meant they got the chance to recreate her wedding dance, with the 94-year-old happily spinning her around his living room

Emotional: 'For months he'd been so excited to dance with me on my wedding night and I'm just so happy that I was able to give him that experience,' Natalie said of the special moment

The stunning bride then finally gets to let the cat out of the bag, surprising her delighted grandfather with her visit, before twirling him around the living room of his home.

Despite not feeling his best, Nelson still manages to pull some impressive moves on their makeshift dancefloor, spinning his beautiful granddaughter around the room - while looking incredibly dapper himself in a white shirt and red tie.

Natalie, a jeweler who is originally from Virginia, admitted that taking her wedding dress all that way wasn't the easiest thing in the world - but said the journey was more than worthwhile when she got to see the look on her grandfather's face.

'Getting the wedding dress through the airport was a struggle to say the least, but it was all worth it when I saw his amazing reaction,' she said.

'For months he'd been so excited to dance with me on my wedding night and I'm just so happy that I was able to give him that experience.'

'I don't get to see him very often so it truly was a special day.'
She made a name for herself by appearing on E4's reality series Made in Chelsea - but Louise Thompson has admitted she spent a decade binge drinking when working in TV 'toxic'.

The pregnant reality TV star, 31, said she used alcohol to hide her 'very low self-esteem' and to not 'face the realities of my life, which I wasn't particularly happy in'.

Teetotal Louise made the comments in the first episode of a three-part web-series called The Have Your NOments, which is airing online today to mark International Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Day.

First recognised in 1999, the day hopes to raise awareness about the range of conditions that can result from alcohol use during pregnancy - with FASD being an umbrella term to describe those issues, such as poor memory and hearing difficulties.

The pregnant reality TV star (pictured), 31, said she used alcohol to hide her 'very low self-esteem' and to not 'face the realities of my life, which I wasn't particularly happy in'

Fitness entrepreneur Louise sat down with with Dr Inyang Takon, Consultant Paediatrician at East and North Hertfordshire Trust at the Skylon Bar in London, to discuss her relationship with alcohol.

Louise said: 'I've been interested in the effects of alcohol on non-pregnant people, as well as pregnant people for a long time, as it used to affect me pretty badly.

'I think I went through a ten year period where I used to binge drink, so I would go out and drink a lot.

'I had very low self-esteem. I used to drink to cover that up and also to not have to face the realities of my life, which I wasn't particularly happy in and I worked in the TV world which was pretty toxic for quite a long period of time.'

She made a name for herself by appearing on E4's reality series Made in Chelsea - but Louise Thompson (pictured) has admitted she spent a decade binge drinking when working in TV 'toxic'

Teetotal Louise (pictured on Made In Chelsea in 2018) made the comments in the first episode of a three-part web-series called The Have Your NOments, which is airing online today to mark International Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Day

She continued: 'My body couldn't actually function in a working environment and I love my job.'

Louise, who is due to give birth to her first child in November with her personal trainer fiance Ryan Libbey, insisted that everyone can benefit from drinking less.

WHAT IS FASD? Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term describing the range of effects that can appear in a person whose mother drank alcohol while pregnant. Alcohol can cause problems for a developing baby throughout pregnancy, including before a woman knows she's pregnant. The CDC has identified 0.2 to 1.5 infants with FAS for every 1,000 live births in certain areas of the United States. However, few estimates for the full range of FASDs are available. Based on community studies using physical examinations, experts estimate that the full range of FASDs in the US might number as high two to five per 100 school children (or between two and five percent of the population). Conditions can range from mild to severe: Abnormal facial features (such as a smooth ridge between the nose and upper lip)

Small head size

Shorter-than-average height

Low body weight

Poor coordination

Hyperactive behavior

Difficulty with attention

Poor memory

Difficulty in school (especially with math)

Learning disabilities

Speech and language delays

Intellectual disability or low IQ

Poor reasoning and judgment skills

Sleep and sucking problems as a baby

Vision or hearing problems

Problems with the heart, kidneys, or bones There are no tests to diagnose FASD, and therefore doctors must rely on physical or mental signs. Typically what is looked for are abnormal facial features; lower-than-average height, weight, or both; and central nervous system problems. FASD is a lifelong disability for which there is no cure. There are many types of treatment options, including medication to help with some symptoms, behavior and education therapy, parent training, and other alternative approaches. Advertisement

She said: 'I don't know if it's just a British thing and our whole pub culture but I think for lots of people, especially when I think about my parents' generation, drinking alcohol is a release from a hard day's work.

'[But] I know a lot of students who think it's cool not to drink, which I think is great.'

Louise said she started reducing her alcohol intake 'before even thinking about family planning'.

'I just knew my body didn't react well to it,' she explained. 'I've noticed that I have way more fun now I'm alcohol-free - I love the fact that I feel more, so everything feels a lot stronger.'

Louise, who rose to fame on Made In Chelsea in 2011, previously reflected on how her priorities changed when she turned 30, and she questioned why she was ever so concerned with her public image.

She previously said: 'It's a combination of turning 30 and you think "oh God, why did I care about being cool? Why did I care about what other people thought of me?" I just want to be with the people that I like and my animals.

'Now, I'm really excited about the prospect of motherhood. Ryan is apprehensive, and really excited but he's a little bit more nervous. It's such a big change.

'We're also doing our home renovation project at the moment  the deadlines for both things  I don't know if one is more predictable than the other, both can be early and both can be late. There's not a lot of security in that sense.

'We're trying to get the nursery sorted in the house at least so at the bare minimum we will have a bedroom and the nursery.'

Louise and Ryan's new arrival will join the couple's two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Koji and Toto, and complete their close-knit family.

Meanwhile, the National Organisation for FASD provides support to people affected by FASD, including their families and communities, campaigns to raise public awareness of the risks of alcohol-exposed pregnancies, and promotes relevant policies and practices.

Sandra Butcher, Chief Executive at National FASD says: 'Research has shown that a quarter of young adults are unaware that pregnant people should not drink alcohol during pregnancy and 41 per cent of pregnancies in the UK are alcohol-exposed, which can cause FASD.

'We're dedicated to providing all the information people need to make informed choices before and during pregnancy. Louise is a great example of someone who has found that having more alcohol-free social occasions before thinking about starting a family has made it easier to have an alcohol-free pregnancy.'

Dr Inyang Takon, Consultant Paediatrician at East and North Hertfordshire Trust concludes: 'The Chief Medical Officers' guidance says that if you are pregnant or think you could become pregnant you should avoid alcohol, to keep the risk to your baby to a minimum.

'If you've had alcohol during pregnancy or are worried about going alcohol-free, don't panic - speak to your GP or midwife.'

Episode 1 of the Have Your NOments webisode series goes live on Thursday 9 September 2021 at 9 am on Prevent FASDs Instagram page (@preventfasd.info) with episodes 2 and 3 going live weekly thereafter.

For more info on FASD and the Have Your NOments series visit www.preventfasd.info.
Gayle King was beaming as she posed for photos with her pregnant daughter Kirby Bumpus at her recent beachside baby shower in California, where the mom-to-be was gifted a $500 stroller from her godmother Oprah Winfrey.

Bumpus, 35, is expecting her first child, a baby boy, with her husband Virgil Miller, and King, 66, went all out when planning her only daughter's 'dream' shower that was both memorable and COVID safe.

In late July, the CBS This Morning anchor invited 16 close family members and friends  all of whom were vaccinated and had tested negative for COVID-19  to celebrate Bumpus during a three-day getaway at the Montage Laguna Beach resort.

'It turned into something that was bigger than a baby shower. Kirby was at the core of the celebration  no doubt about that  but it became a celebration of friendship, a celebration of women, and a celebration of coming together after things have been so hard for so many people,' King told Oprah Daily.

All smiles: Gayle King, 66, threw her pregnant daughter Kirby Bumpus, 35, a lavish baby shower in California in late July

Incredible:The CBS This Morning anchor invited 16 close family members and friends to celebrate Bumpus at the Montage Laguna Beach resort

'To be honest with you, I didn't know it was going to be that. I knew it would be pretty and nice, but I think it grew into something much more significant than that.'

Bumpus and Miller had a small, socially distanced wedding ceremony at Winfrey's home in Santa Barbara, California, in December, and she initially thought her shower would likely have to be virtual because of the pandemic.

However, once the COVID-19 became widely available and she was able to get the shot, her mom knew that she wanted to do something special to make up for the other milestone events she had missed out on.

'When Kirby got married in December, she didn't have the wedding that she'd planned. We were still in the process of figuring out exactly what that would be, but we knew, whatever it was, it'd be more than six people,' King explained.

Safe shower: All of the guests were vaccinated and had tested negative for COVID-19 before attending the three-day getaway

Blessed: Bumpus received plenty of thoughtful gifts, including a $500 BabyZen YOYO stroller from Oprah Winfrey

'That turned out to be perfect, but she didn't have a bridal shower or any of those events, so I really wanted her baby shower to be more than just a Zoom thing.

'Not to mention that part of the fun of being pregnant is seeing your friends react to your baby bump, watching them ooh and aah and letting them touch it,' the grandmother-to-be added.

King, who teamed up with Bumpus's best friend, Erica, for the shower, initially thought they could plan the event themselves, but that idea went out the window after she was asked a question about the gift bags.

The journalist turned to Details Details owner Jeannie Young, who suggested they used shades of blue as a starting point for the shower's decor in honor of Bumpus having a baby boy.

'It was the first moment to celebrate a lot of things that happened in the last two years  and Mom definitely went all out and outdid herself,' Bumpus said. 'The thing I keep saying is that I can't even call this the shower of my dreams because I didn't even dream something like that for myself.'

Like family: Not only is Winfrey King's best friend, but she is also Bumpus's godmother

Sleek: Winfrey chose BabyZen YOYO's white frame stroller with a peppermint color pack and matching parasol

Making it up: King said she wanted her daughter's baby shower 'to be more than just a Zoom thing' because the pandemic prevented her from having a bridal shower

The expectant mom received plenty of thoughtful gifts, including a BabyZen YOYO stroller from Winfrey, who selected the white frame design with a peppermint color pack and matching parasol.

Bumpus also received a quilt made by her aunt Sharon, cute baby clothes, and a number of children's books to grow her son's library.

Heartwarming photos from the shower show Bumpus cradling her baby bump and posing with her mom while wearing an off-the-shoulder blue dress in honor of her impending arrival.

'I'm very excited about a boy,' she said. 'For starters, I think my husband Virgil would be a great dad to a boy or girl, so I just can't wait to see him become a dad.

'And selfishly, I'm grateful that I don't have to figure out how to do a little girl's hair just yet, because I'm not sure I'm ready for that.'

Intimate: Bumpus and her husband Virgil Miller had a small, socially distanced wedding ceremony at Winfrey's home in Santa Barbara, California, in December due to COVID-19

Almost here! Bumpus's due date is just a few weeks, and she and her husband have been busy installing their baby's car and having their final session with their doula

Aww: 'I've wanted to be a mom for so long and having a mom like mine has given me such an incredible template for what a mom can be,' Bumpus said

King, who also has a son, William Bumpus Jr., added that she is just as excited to welcome another boy into the family.

'I would have been thrilled either way, but I was so excited when I found out it was a boy because, as the oldest of four girls, I always wanted a big brother for myself,' she explained. 'To see your own baby have a baby  it still blows my mind that this is actually happening.'

Bumpus's due date is just a few weeks, and she and her husband have been busy installing their baby's car and having their final session with their doula.

'Knowing how the whole birth experience is different and riskier for Black women, we felt it was essential to go into the delivery room fully informed and with someone who would really be an advocate for us,' she said.

'Once we've done that, I think we might actually be ready  or as ready as we can be. We know there's a million things that we don't know and a million things that we need to learn, but out of all the jobs I've ever sought out, this is the one that I know for sure I really want,' she added.

'I've wanted to be a mom for so long and having a mom like mine has given me such an incredible template for what a mom can be. I love our relationship, and I get so excited thinking about what that relationship will look like with my son as he's a baby, as he's a child, and so on.'
Beauty mogul Zoe Foster-Blake has shared the 'five-step five-minute face routine' she follows every morning for glowing skin, and it's easy to replicate at home.

The 41-year-old multi-millionaire founder of Go-To Skincare this week launched her new bestselling Much Brighter Skin Vitamin C Serum ($59), and so Zoe wanted to show how she incorporates it every morning.

Zoe's morning skincare regime contains just five products and takes less than five minutes.

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Beauty mogul Zoe Foster-Blake (pictured) has shared the 'five-step five-minute face routine' she follows every morning for glowing skin, and it's easy to replicate at home

Zoe said she religiously starts by cleansing using Go-To's Properly Clean mousse cleanser, as she likes to get rid of the residue from her thick night creams from the night before (pictured)

She said she religiously starts by cleansing using Go-To's Properly Clean ($31) mousse cleanser.

'You don't have to cleanse in the morning if you don't like to, it is optional, but I make sure I do every morning because I wear some pretty thick night creams,' Zoe said in an Instagram video.

'I like to get rid of all that residue and have a really nice cleanse. Some people may prefer to just rinse their skin with water, and others may like how their natural oils feel, and want to apply skincare directly from there.'

When you've applied the cleanser and washed it off, Zoe said you should 'pat your skin dry' with a towel.

Patting is much better than rubbing as it doesn't drag the delicate skin on our faces, particularly around our eyes.

The 41-year-old recommends you pat your skin dry rather than rub it, as this helps to stop you from dragging the delicate skin on your face (Zoe pictured)

Zoe Foster-Blake's five-minute five-step face regime * STEP ONE: Cleanse with a mousse or foaming cleanser to get rid of debris. Pat the skin dry. * STEP TWO: Add a mist to dampen the skin and improve the efficacy of products. * STEP THREE: Apply one pump of Much Brighter Skin Vitamin C serum and gently massage into the face, all the way down to the boobs. Let dry. * STEP FOUR: Apply a face oil and pat this into the skin, so you don't disturb your serums. * STEP FIVE: Finish with SPF, which should be worn every single day. Advertisement

'Next, despite the fact that I've just dried my face, I am going to spray on a mist,' Zoe said.

'I used to think using a mist was over the top, but actually I've since found that using a mist dampens the skin, which helps products like your vitamin C to penetrate better and absorb faster and more effectively.'

When your skin is still damp from the mist, Zoe said you should apply just one pump of the Much Brighter Skin Vitamin C serum, taking the time to 'gently massage' the product in your face.

'This serum has been specially designed with an array of ingredients to feel incredible on the skin,' Zoe said.

'It sinks in really fast, it's lightweight, it's beautiful under SPF and makeup and it doesn't pill or gather up.'

She added: 'Make sure you take all of your skincare down as far as your boobs, because that is where your face should stop.'

Once this is done, allow the product to fully absorb for one or two minutes.

'Next, I apply a face oil and my face oil of choice is Face Hero,' Zoe said.

'I will put five or so drops into the palm of my hand, and then, instead of massaging it in, I like to push it into my face, because when you push in products, they won't disturb what you've just applied with the vitamin C as you're not rubbing it.'

Zoe (pictured) also said you should pat in your face oils, rather than massage them, as this means you won't disturb the serum application from underneath

Finally, while you could add a moisturiser, Zoe said all you need is some SPF.

'When you apply vitamin C, you absolutely must make sure you put on SPF too,' she said.

'The combination of free radicals and antioxidants with SPF is just great for your skin.'

At the end of last month, Zoe Foster-Blake (pictured) sold a controlling stake in her Go-To skincare company for a staggering $89million

More than 200,000 people who saw Zoe's video were impressed and said they would definitely be replicating her morning regime at home.

What 'Much Brighter Skin' can do for your complexion * Boost facial radiance for 'bright, luminous skin'. * Target hyperpigmentation caused by dark spots, UV damage, hormonal changes or uneven skin tone. * Fights free radicals and environmental damage. * Plump and hydrate the skin to leave it bouncy thanks to the addition of hyaluronic acid and glycerin. * Promotes collagen production. Advertisement

'So excited to try out the vitamin C serum - this might cut out three other products,' one person commented.

'Thank you thank you thank you! I've been a Go-To gal for about six months and my skin has never been better!' another added.

At the end of last month, Zoe Foster-Blake sold a controlling stake in her Go-To skincare company for a staggering $89million.

The 41-year-old beauty mogul sold a 50.1 per cent share to BWX.

The ASX-listed company is also behind Aussie skincare brand Sukin, and has a lucrative five-year supplier deal with Chemist Warehouse.

BWX praised Go-To for providing consumers with 'simple, trusted and effective skincare products for the masstige market'.

The skincare company was established by the former magazine journalist in 2014, and generated $36.8million in revenue last year alone.

Despite the new deal, BWX said Go-To 'will remain an independently operated, stand-alone, founder-led brand'.

Zoe will also continue to act as the company's strategic investor, chief creative officer and board director.
Steve Martin has named the Australian true crime podcast he can't get enough of, confessing to listening to '158 episodes' of the show last summer.

The American comedian and actor, 76, revealed he is a huge fan of Casefile, when he appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on Wednesday.

Martin was on the show alongside co-stars Martin Short, 71, and Selena Gomez, 29, to promote their new Hulu series Only Murders In The Building.

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Steve Martin (pictured) has named the Australian true crime podcast he can't get enough of, confessing to listening to '158 episodes' of the show last summer

The American comedian and actor, 76, revealed he is a fan of Casefile, when he appeared on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert on Wednesday (pictured with his wife Anne Stringfield)

Martin said he is 'obsessed' with true crime, and Casefile had him hooked from the get-go.

'Last summer, there's this podcast I listened to, it's Australian, it's called Casefile and I love it,' Martin told the host Stephen Colbert.

'The narrator is Australian and it's very compelling.'

He added: 'Last summer, when I was on my bike, I would put my headphones on (open of course, so I could hear the traffic), and I listened to 158 episodes.'

Casefile (pictured) is an award-winning true-crime podcast that presents unforgettable stories that delve deep into the circumstances, investigations and trials of solved and unsolved cases

Casefile is an award-winning true-crime podcast that presents unforgettable stories that delve deep into the circumstances, investigations and trials of both solved and unsolved cases.

Many early episodes relate to Australian cases, like Port Arthur or the Snowtown muders, although notable crimes from the UK and the USA are increasingly featured in later series.

First started in 2016 as a one-person side project, Casefile has grown to include an entire team based across multiple continents.

The Australian narrator remains anonymous, and the podcast is released on a Sunday for three consecutive weeks, with a break on the fourth week.

Casefile has won a number of awards in the podcast world, including Apple Podcasts (Best of 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020) and Spotify's Podcast of the Decade.

At present, there are a staggering 187 episodes.

Only Murders in the Building follows three neighbours in a New York City apartment building who are all true crime buffs.

Their amateur detective skills are put to the test when an actual murder happens in their building and they try to solve the case themselves.

The show's concluding episode will air on Hulu on October 5.
A mother with a gift for spruiking products on social media is on track to make $3million before the end of 2021 with her latest idea.

Iyia Liu, who is the brains behind multi-million dollar brands Waist Trainer and Luxe Fitness, recently launched Tidal Hair, a website that specialises in styling tools that promise to give you a 'salon quality' blow out from the comfort of your own home.

Since dropping online in May 2020, the businesswoman, 27, has amassed 178,000 followers on Instagram, gone viral several times on TikTok and sold $250,000 worth of products in one month alone.

The astonishing success of all three of Ms Liu's ventures has been attributed to her razor-sharp skill for social media marketing, which sees her share 'giveaway' posts offering tantalising prizes worth thousands of dollars in exchange for engagement.

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Iyia Liu (pictured) has a gift for spruiking products on social media - and one of her ideas has made her millions of dollars

The New Zealand businesswoman recently launched Tidal Hair, a website that specialises in styling tools (left and right) that promise to give you a 'salon quality' blow out at home

When the mum-of-one launched a clothing label called Bambi Boutique in 2017, she saw its Facebook page jump from almost zero followers to 70,000 in 24 hours.

The extraordinary feat was largely thanks to post teasing one lucky winner with more than $2,000 worth of cosmetics and a haul of other lavish products, including an alluring bounty of Kylie Jenner's famous lip kits.

'Giveaways are just one of the many digital marketing techniques I use to garner attention and generate brand awareness,' Ms Liu told Daily Mail Australia at the time.

She said it's about doing something different that people will love but introducing ideas which can also grow engagement.

Four years on, Ms Liu is living proof that 'if it's not broke, don't fix it'.

The success of Ms Liu's ventures has been attributed to her skill for social media marketing, which sees her share 'giveaway' posts offering tantalising prizes worth thousands of dollars

Ms Liu (left, with partner Jordan and right) runs regular competitions on the Tidal Hair Instagram page, and says it's all about doing something different that people will love

She runs regular competitions on the Tidal Hair Instagram page, with packages of her own products as well as expensive gifts including Smeg toasters, Morphe makeup brushes, Mario Badescu skincare and Frank Body tanning treatments.

Ms Liu also understands the power of celebrity endorsement, once shelling out a staggering $300,000 to billionaire business mogul Kylie Jenner in exchange for a sponsored post.

She often shares photos of some of the world's biggest influencers including Kim Kardashian, Hailey Bieber and Love Island UK breakout star Molly Mae Hague, whose 'social currency' garners huge volumes of likes, shares and comments online.

Ms Liu (pictured) also understands the power of celebrity endorsement, once shelling out a staggering $300,000 to Kylie Jenner in exchange for a sponsored post

Ms Liu's hair tools boast 1,900 five-star reviews, with customers raving about the $99 three-tong waver (pictured)

But as any good businesswoman knows, all the hype in the world is worthless if you haven't got a product to match.

Ms Liu's hair tools boast 1,900 five-star reviews, with customers raving about the $99 three-tong waver and the new $99 blow brush.

'I LOVE it! It's my new favourite. The waves are perfectly beachy and exactly like what I'd hope for,' one woman wrote.

A second said: 'The blow brush of my dreams. I have never been able to properly blow dry my hair and this brush helps a TON!'

Others preferred the brand's $36.96 heatless curling kit, which creates tumbling waves without the damage of a heated wand.
Sarah Ferguson has said she stands by the commitments she made on her wedding day to Prince Andrew - as insiders reportedly claim he is 'utterly convinced' he will brush off rape and sex assault allegations from Jeffrey Epstein's former sex slave.

Despite being officially divorced since 1996, the Duke and Duchess of York have maintain a remarkably close bond, with the pair living together in Royal Lodge in Windsor.

On Tuesday, the Queen's son, 61, travelled up to the monarch's 50,000-acre Balmoral estate - where she is currently on holiday - to allegedly avoid further attempts to serve sexual assault papers at his mansion in the Berkshire town, according to media reports.

He was joined by Sarah, who during a recent trip to Poland declared 'divorce is one thing, but my heart is my oath' as she told the local press that her wedding to Prince Andrew in 1986 was one of the best days of her life.

Sarah Ferguson (pictured) has said she stands by the commitments she made on her wedding day to Prince Andrew - as insiders reportedly claim he is 'utterly convinced' he will brush off rape and sex assault allegations from Jeffrey Epstein's former sex slave

On Tuesday, the Queen's son (pictured) travelled up to the monarch's 50,000-acre Balmoral estate - where she is currently on holiday - to allegedly avoid further attempts to serve sexual assault papers at his mansion in the Berkshire town. He was joined by Sarah

The mother of the York princesses, Eugenie, 31, Beatrice, 33, told Polsat News that she 'made a commitment [on that day] that she will always follow'.

'When you make that commitment, you decide to marry a prince - and I fell in love with him. He was a sailor, he is still. He was a helicopter pilot and was also a prince,' she said.

'I kept my commitment, no matter what. People said: "You got divorced"... They don't know how I feel. Divorce is one thing, but my heart is my oath, my obligation.'

The 61-year-old was in Poland last week to open a cosmetic medicine centre, owned by her friend Dr Gabriela Mercik, where she was captured cutting a red ribbon.

Mercik, who is Polish, runs another clinic on Harley Street, central London, where the duchess has undergone cosmetic treatments.

Sarah was in Poland last week to open a cosmetic medicine centre, owned by her friend Dr Gabriela Mercik, where she was captured cutting a red ribbon (pictured)

Sarah first visited Poland in the early 1990s, when she created a charity to help youngsters who were suffering as a result of poor air quality.

During the interview, she also discussed 'disgusting' internet trolls and being very vulnerable.

She said: '[Princess] Diana and I have experienced many, many, really awful headlines. It took a lot of psychotherapy, mental suffering, for me to talk to you today. Because sometimes you believe all of this. Then you break down...

'But you are human. And when you are, things hurt. And Im very vulnerable, so its easy to hurt me.'

Andrew has travelled with Sarah Ferguson to Balmoral Castle (file picture), with is the Queen's Scottish retreat

The Queen with her son Prince Andrew on the Buckingham Palace balcony in June 2019

Sarah has travelled to Balmoral with Andrew after they were seen leaving the Royal Lodge in Berkshire on Tuesday.

It comes after insiders reportedly claimed Andrew is 'utterly convinced' that he will brush off allegations of rape and sexual assault from Jeffrey Epstein's former sex slave and believes he could return to public life as soon as the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next year.

Timeline of another dramatic month in the Prince Andrew case August 9 : Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17

: Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17 August 10 : Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day

: Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day August 10 : US lawyers were allegedly trying to hold him up on his horse to serve him papers before he left.

August 12: Dame Cressida Dick says she has told Met Police detectives to review the claims against Andrew

August 13: Ms Giuffre's lawyer says Andrew will be served papers in person under the Hague Convention

August 14: Epstein's telecoms specialist says he will swear on oath that he saw Andrew groping Ms Giuffre

August 15: Andrew's friends say he is 'cheerful and relaxed' over the case in and will remain silent

August 16: A source close to the US probe into Jeffrey Epstein says they view Andrew as a 'person of interest'

September 7 : Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland

: Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland September 13 : First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York

: First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York December 8 : Deadline for Andrew to be served with court papers in person under the Hague Convention Advertisement

The Duke of York has reportedly told aides that the scandal surrounding the bombshell lawsuit filed in a US court by Virginia Giuffre will 'blow over' and has earmarked a return to the royal front line in time for Her Majesty's historic milestone anniversary.

Sources quoted by one newspaper described Andrew's 'incredibly bullish' attitude and said he believes there is time to salvage his reputation. Palace sources have insisted the duke will 'not take part' in any of the official celebrations marking the Queen's seven decades on the throne.

One insider close to the royal told The Daily Mirror: 'It is clear he (Andrew) has a clear and burning desire to return to work as soon as possible.

'That may look entirely impossible but if anything he's become emboldened in recent weeks and remains utterly convinced he will not only be exonerated but will certainly forge a way back to public life.

'Certainly he has given the incredibly bullish impression that this will all blow over within a short while, rather than become a protracted issue.'

On Wednesday the duke was seen at a a fishing lodge in a secluded forest six miles from Balmoral and was said to have had a personal lunch with the Queen.

Andrew has not yet publicly responded to the bombshell lawsuit filed in a US court by paedophile financier Epstein's ex-sex slave Ms Giuffre, who claims he sexually abused her when she was 17. The duke has always denied her allegations.

Ms Giuffre has accused Andrew of abusing her at Epstein's Manhattan mansion as well as his private Caribbean island, and at the London home of his madam Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently in a New York jail awaiting sex abuse and grooming charges.

Papers have not yet been served on Andrew or his lawyers despite 'multiple attempts' at Royal Lodge in the last fortnight, according to The Sun - and the Duke is now set to stay at the Queen's estate while the case is heard.

Andrew will have to be served in person with court papers including a copy of Ms Guiffre's complaint - which was filed on August 10 - under the Hague Convention international law treaty because he is a foreign citizen.

When the lawsuit was filed, her legal team were given 120 days to get Andrew the papers or his lawyers could try to get the case dismissed. Andrew would have 21 days to respond once the papers are officially served.

Under the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR), papers must be served on all defendants within 120 days after a civil complaint is filed at court - and the action can then be dismissed unless the plaintiff can 'show good cause for the delay'. This means Ms Guiffre's lawyers will have until December 8 to serve the papers on Andrew.

The civil suit is due to be heard via a telephone conference next Monday in Manhattan, New York. Ms Giuffre, now 38, claims she was forced to have sex with Andrew three times on the orders of paedophile financier Epstein.
'Mum guru' Giovanna Fletcher, 36, and TV presenter Emma Willis, 45, have urged both men and women to get uncommon and 'embarrassing' symptoms of breast cancer check out.

The celebrity friends, who appeared on this morning's episode of GMB, were discussing a gruelling 100km trek they will shortly undertake in support of breast cancer charity CoppaFeel.

They will take to the Scottish Highlands for their five-day hike, as part of the #TeamBoobs team, which 'aims to reach young people across the nation with a life saving message'.

The walk, which will take part from September 12-18, follows the tragic recent death of Girls Aloud star Sarah Harding, who died from the disease on Sunday, aged 39.

Both Giovanna and Emma - who knew Sarah professionally - want to educate both women and men about the symptoms they should look for when it comes to the disease, as it can affect both sexes.

Author Giovanna - who interviewed Kate Middleton on her mothering podcast 'Happy Mum, Happy Baby, and is married to McFly guitarist Tom Fletcher, said: '400 men a year get diagnosed in the UK.

'So it's really important that everyone checks their chest area, and knows that it's not just a lump because there are so many different signs and symptoms.

'There's puckering, there's dimpling, there's swelling, there's pain, there's nipple discharge, inverted nipple.

Emma Willis (left) and Giovanna Fletcher (right) appeared on this morning's episode of Good Morning Britain to discuss the importance of checking for breast cancer symptoms

Giovanna Fletcher, who is married to McFly star Tom Fletcher - said that even if some symptoms are 'embarrassing', it's important to discuss them

Giovana and Emma discussed breast cancer in the wake of former Girls Aloud's star Sarah Harding, who died of the disease on Sunday, aged 39

Myths about breast cancer There is a lot of information out there about breast cancer, and it can be confusing to know what is true. Some of the headlines are scary and they are not always accurate, so let's bust a few myths. Everyone has breast tissue and people of all genders can get breast cancer. To be clear and consistent, we use the word 'breasts' in our health information, rather than boobs, pecs or chest. When we say breasts, we mean the tissue from your rib cage up to your collarbone and armpits, including your nipples. Deodorant There is no evidence that deodorant causes breast cancer. Whatever deodorant you use, it will not increase your risk of breast cancer. Mobile Phones Mobile phones are relatively new, so there is no long term evidence about their lasting effects. However, the best research says that mobile phones do not cause cancer. The radio waves from mobile phones in the UK are too weak to cause cancer. 4G and 5G transmit radio waves too, but they are also too weak to cause cancer. We recommend you do not keep your phone in your bra, but only for your own comfort! Bras Wearing an underwired bra will not increase your risk of breast cancer. Wearing the wrong size bra will not increase your risk of breast cancer. Wearing a bra is a choice. It's up to you what you wear. If you choose to wear a bra, you will be more comfortable in a bra that fits well. Your choice either way will not increase your risk of breast cancer. Breast Implants There are risks involved with all surgery, and there are risks involved with all implants (prosthesis). However, there is no evidence that breast implants increase your risk of breast cancer. If you have breast implants, you should be checking your chest regularly Source: CoppaFeel Advertisement

'So it's important that we get to know all of those signs and symptoms, and get to know our bodies.

'The best thing you can do is know what your normal is.

'Then when you know something's not quite right you can go to your GP and you can say 'I know this isn't normal for me'.'

She also recommended standing in front of the mirror, checking yourself, knowing what you look like, so you will notice any changes like dimpling or rashes, or new lumps (as some people have lumpy breasts).

Discussing symptoms that people may not notice, the panel brought up Sarah Harding, who discovered lumps under her arm, reminding people to check a broader area than just the breast.

'And sometimes there are very embarrassing symptoms, you know,' added Giovanna.

'If you have an inverted nipple, you want to shy away, you don't want to talk to anyone about it, but actually that's just exactly what you should be doing.

'Even if it's just talking to your mate, and knowing that if your mate comes to you and says something, say 'well go to the doctor'.

'That's the next step, because also living with that, it could be nothing, and actually you're doing yourself a world of service just getting it checked out and being told it's nothing.'

The panel also discussed the pair's upcoming awareness-raising 100km hike - and whether they'd prefer to do it in the rain or blazing sunshine.

Emma said: 'I don't know. I'm not sure on this one. Gi [Giovanna] did one a couple of months ago in Cornwall and had wonderful weather, but it was really cold at night time...so Scotland, I don't know what it's going to be.

'I'm not thinking about the weather, I'm thinking about, 'Can my feet cope with 100km?' and 'How lumpy is the ground going to be at night?'.'

After the subject of aching feet, conversation turned to Giovanna's husband Tom Fletcher, who is taking part in this years Strictly Come Dancing.

According to Giovanna: 'He's meeting his partner today, then tomorrow is his first bit of group dancing. So maybe tomorrow night he may be a bit achy.

'Most of the people who do it, as you know, end up aching in places they didn't even know existed, so I'm looking forward to most of the moaning.'

She added that the whole family - including their sons Buzz, Max, and Buddy - will be tuning in to watch him compete.

'We watch it every year anyway, it's such a nice thing to watch as a family,' she said.

'So I just think it would be a lovely experience for all of us.'

Fun in the sun: Elsewhere, Emma and fellow presenter Stephen Mulhern attended an event on Wednesday in honour of Disney and their Make-A-Wish foundation

Elsewhere, Emma and fellow presenter Stephen Mulhern, 44, attended an event on Wednesday in honour of Disney and their Make-A-Wish foundation.

The TV duo volunteered their time  and had some fun themselves  with a group of the 500 children that have had their wish of visiting Disneyland Paris postponed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Emma and Stephen enjoyed a spin on a carousel as they joined Disney and Make-A-Wish who invited 150 families to come together for a fun-filled three-day trip in Hampshire.

The children's charity, The Kentown Wizard Foundation and The Walt Disney Company UK joined forces to put a smile back on their faces, while their dream trip to visit Paris will come at a later date.

Disney UK, Make-A-Wish UK and The Kentown Wizard Foundation have joined forces to deliver the Disney Wish Experience, a first-of-its kind three-week event supporting 150 wish children and families from across the UK. To find out more please visit the Make a Wish website
A survivor of the 09/11 terrorist attacks has appeared on the Lorraine show to pay tribute to the unknown firefighter who saved her life.

California-based Shumi Brody, was just 22-years-old, and on her first day on her new job as a legal assistant when two commercial jets were flown into the Twin Towers in worst ever terrorist attack in the US, which killed almost 3,000 people.

According to the now mum-of-three, people in the tower had no idea what was going on when the planes hit. She said: 'It was really hard to tell what had happened, at no point when I was in the building would I have ever thought that it was a commercial jet liner that had hit us.

'It felt like an earthquake, which was very strange for New York City. It shook the building violently and then all of a sudden came to a stop.'

According to Shumi, she was waiting on the 44th floor to take the elevator to the 56th floor when the plane hit the building.

She added: 'I was all alone, I wasn't with my colleagues in the office, and I continued to push the elevator button so I could go even higher to the 56th floor, not knowing what had happened.

'I thought maybe I could get more information from my colleagues if I'd gotten into the office.

'Luckily that elevator never came, and the light just flickered, so I followed a gentleman into the emergency stairwell, who looked very scared and was sprinting, so I took his lead.'

The 9/11 survivor said that because no one knew what what happened - they had no social media and couldn't check phones to see the news - everyone in the stairwell was 'very calm'.

She said: 'I remember promising my mom before I took this job in New York City that I would call her every day around 8:45 when I got into the office, and I did call her, but my calls never went through.

'So I was in the building for an hour before I was able to get out. There were many people that left the emergency stairwell just opening up other doors to floors and saying: "Oh I don't smell smoke on this floor", because after some time, the smoke started filling into our stairwell.

'At around the 35th floor, there was a locked door in the emergency stairwell, and there was a man who was in the building staff who tried every key on his keyring to get the door open, and it's unclear whether he was able to get that door open or if it was the firefighters on the other side that were able to break the door open.'

When she was heading down the stairs, she tripped over, at which point, the firefighter lifter her up, looked at her, and said: 'Keep moving, stay calm, but just keep moving, you're going to get out of here.'

At that point, Shumi revealed, she knew she 'had to get out' and that something more serious than they all realised was going on.

'We initially thought there was a kitchen fire,' she said. 'On the 45th floor, there was a huge cafeteria, people used to eat lunch there and enjoy the views, and so it seemed plausible that there might have been a kitchen explosion.

Shumi Brody, who lives in California, was just 22 when New York City's Twin Towers were hit by aeroplanes in the US's worst ever terrorist attacks. She told her story on the Lorraine show

The now mum-of-three has shared chilling details of the attack - revealing that people in the towers had no idea what was happening as there was no online news to check back in 2001

Now a mother of three, Shumi appeared on the Lorraine show to recount her memories of the traumatic event, in which almost 3,000 people were killed

Newspaper reports from the time show how Shumi managed to escape from the burning tower with the help of the unnamed firefighter

'But as time went on, and they were bringing down burn victims in the stairwell, we knew something more serious had happened but no one knew about it. There were people in the stairwell saying, "I hope they clear up this issue, I have an 11:30 meeting I have to go to".

'You know around the 11th floor, water started filling up into the stairwell, it seemed the pipes must have burst, the electricity was starting to go out, and so all of us started holding each others' shoulders, trying to navigate to get to the bottom floor and finally when the door flew open and light started coming in, we knew we had made it.

'There was a gentleman who was peacefully and calmly guiding us to the back of the building, and it was just so selfless, and it was as if he knew exactly what to do, so well orchestrated, everyone just remained calm the entire time.

'I had a chance to look out into the courtyard where I had walked into the building and this beautiful structure was completely destroyed and I remember thinking, "This is some kind of kitchen fire, there's something else going on'.

'So once we were led to the back of the river, I had the chance to look up at both the buildings and I noticed there were two gaping holes, and so not only was my building hit, so was the one next to it.'

Shumi kept trying to call her mother, wondering if her mother was trying to call her, and if she even knew what was going on.

Terrifying images from the event on September 11, 2001, show how badly the towers were affected by being hit by commercial planes

The planes were commandeered by terrorists who flew into the Twin Towers - iconic buildings in New York City

The attacks - considered the worst terrorist attacks in US history, killed almost 3,000 people after the two buildings were detroyed

'And I just wanted to call her to tell her that I would be okay and there was an issue, but I would be back at work and I would call her when I was at my desk, but that call never happened,' Shumi said.

'And as I was looking up at the buildings a woman screamed, "Everybody run, the building is coming down!

Shumi added: 'If youve seen [the footage] of everybody running with white ash on them, I was one of those people.

'And I continued to run North away from the building.'

Shumi told Lorraine that she had moved to New York City with her younger sister - a freshman at Barnard College that year - and she had taken the job in order to look after her little sister - but says its turns out that 'she was looking after me.'

Discussing not being able to trace the firefighter who saved her, Shumi said: 'He was just so determined that he was going to help anybody that needed to be helped and he just pushed on and went up the stairs while all of us were heading down.

'Ive always thought of him as a hero, hell never know that but the firefighters that day were so selfless and heroic, and I like to remember 9/11 as a day where so many selfless acts were made.

'It was one of the darkest days Ill ever know, but also one of the brightest to see so many of us come together and it really restored my faith in humanity.'

Speaking on the tragedy, 20 years after it happened, Lorraine concluded: 'Its a time for reflection and I think its a good idea to focus on all the incredible acts of heroism, it was remarkable.'
A heartbroken family cremated their beloved cat and had bought a headstone - only for pet to 'come back from the dead' and turn up on their doorstep hours later.

The family-of-four's 14-year-old moggy had been missing overnight so when Freddy and Sinead O'Cleirigh found a black cat dead in the road outside their home with an identical patch of white fur on its chest, they assumed it was Simba.

The tearful pair, from Lagmore, Belfast, took the cat to the vet where they had an emotional ceremony and purchased a headstone to remember her by.

After consoling their devastated sons, Connell, 17, and Stiofan, five, at home, the real Simba miraculously reappeared.

When Freddy and Sinead O'Cleirigh found a black cat dead in the road outside their home with an identical patch of white fur on its chest, they assumed it was Simba

Connell O'cleirigh, 17, from Lagmore, Belfast, with Simba, 14. The family has had the cat all her life

Freddy O'cleirigh, 17, from Lagmore, Belfast, with Simba, 14. CCTV footage captured the moment the lucky feline strolled back home

CCTV footage captured the moment the lucky feline strolled back home and Connell was reunited with his childhood pet, with the lad clearly confused as he picked up Simba and ran into the house to share his discovery.

A second 'miracle' soon followed when the family were able to use the power of social media to track down the owner of the cat they had cremated and return it to them.

Deli worker Sinead, 40, said: 'I'm just so embarrassed. It was a crazy day.

Sinead and security worker Freddy, 37, took the cat to the vet where they paid 60 for a cremation and 25 for a headstone.

Connell O'cleirigh, 17, from Lagmore, Belfast, with Simba, 14. The family had even got her a headstone

'I haven't stopped laughing because I can't believe it was me who did it.

'We got her a headstone and everything.'

'Simba hadn't come back all night and my husband got up early to go to the gym when he saw a dead cat that had been hit by a car.

'We were crying and my sons were devastated.'

Sinead and security worker Freddy, 37, took the cat to the vet where they paid 60 for a cremation and 25 for a headstone.

The family have had her all of her life so they thought she deserves a proper send off because she's such a big part of the family. Pictured 14-year-old cat Simba

Sinead said: 'We've had her all of her life so we thought she deserves a proper send off because she's such a big part of the family.

'We got her for Connell's third birthday so he's never known life without her.

'We were all devastated including my extended family.'

CCTV caught the moment Connell was reunited with his childhood pet and Sinead was left to explain to her youngest son how Simba had managed to come back from the dead.

Connell O'cleirigh, 17, from Lagmore, Belfast, discovers cat simba that they thought they had cremated back on their driveway

She said: 'We were trying to cheer the boys up with pizza then my son went to walk his girlfriend to the car and he saw a little cat come wandering down the drive.

'Everyone was screaming that Simba had come back from the dead and we were all so happy and celebrating.

'We explained to my youngest about the rainbow bridge and how that's where cats and dogs go when they die so that's completely ruined his illusion and now he thinks all our dead pets are coming back.'

Sinead managed to trace the mystery cat's owner on Facebook and returned the ashes to them.

CCTV footage captured the moment the lucky feline strolled back home and Connell was reunited with his childhood pet, with the lad clearly confused as he picked up Simba and ran into the house to share his discovery

The blunder has made the family famous in their town and Sinead has been receiving messages from as far as America.

She said: 'I posted what I'd done on social media and when Freddy went to work the next day, people were meowing at him and my phone was blowing up.

'When I went into work, everyone knew about it.

'People from Florida have been messaging me, everyone has seen it and I was all over everyone's news feeds.'
Prince Albert of Monaco has hit back at rumours of a rift in his marriage - insisting wife Prince Charlene 'didn't leave in a huff' and remains in South Africa only because of 'medical complications' following a 'severe ear, nose and throat infection'.

The 63-year-old royal told People that the speculation over the state of his relationship with the former Olympic swimmer, 43, has 'affected' them both, but that he didn't address it early because he 'was concentrating on taking care of the kids'.

Charlene, who wed her prince in 2011 and has two children, six-year-old twins Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, with Albert, has been in her native South Africa for several months after contracting the infection in May.

She is not expected to return to her husband's principality until October after experiencing complications related to a sinus lift and bone graft procedure she'd undergone before her trip for dental implants, according to the magazine.

The mother-of-two has apparently since had several corrective procedures - including one in late June that resulted in her missing her 10th wedding anniversary on July 1 and a four-hour long operation on August 13.

On September 1, Charlene was admitted to a local hospital after suddenly 'collapsing'. She was later released but doctors are 'still establishing exactly what happened', according to a statement from Chantell Wittstock, director of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation.

Prince Albert of Monaco has hit back at rumours of a rift in his marriage - insisting wife Prince Charlene (pictured together) 'didn't leave in a huff' and remains in South Africa only because of 'medical complications' following a 'severe ear, nose and throat infection'

Speaking to People, Albert said: 'She didn't leave Monaco in a huff! She didn't leave because she was mad at me or at anybody else She didn't go into exile. It was absolutely just a medical problem which had to be treated.'

He added that his wife had planned to travel to South Africa to reassess her foundation's work and to spend time with her brother and friends.

But the '10-day maximum stay' has lasted several months because of the infection, which the prince said resulted in 'all these medical complications'.

Yet the last time Charlene was spotted in Monaco was in January, and the extended time apart from her husband and two children has sparked speculation about the state of the royals' marriage.

Albert admitted he 'probably should have addressed' the rumours sooner, but was 'concentrating on taking care of the kids' and believed they would just 'go away'.

'Of course it affects her, of course it affects me,' he told the magazine. 'Misreading events is always detrimental... We're an easy target, easily hit, because we're in the public eye a lot.'

The 63-year-old said the speculation over the state of his relationship with the former Olympic swimmer, 43, has 'affected' them both, but that he didn't address it early because he 'was concentrating on taking care of the kids' (pictured with Albert in Ireland on September 3)

On Monday, Charlene sadly missed out on taking her six-year-old twins back to school - instead they were accompanied by their father.

Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella returned to Francois dAssise-Nicolas Barre (FANB), a private Catholic institution on Monday, according to the Monaco Tribune.

Charlene was in a stable condition Friday after being admitted to a hospital in the port city of Durban in the southeastern KwaZulu-Natal province on Wednesday night under an alias, after suddenly 'collapsing'.

'Her Serene Highness (HSH) Princess Charlene of Monaco was rushed to hospital by ambulance late Wednesday night after collapsing due to complications from the severe ear, nose, and throat infection she contracted in May,' her foundation said in a statement.

'The Princess' medical team is currently evaluating her but have confirmed that the Princess is stable,' it said.

Chantell Wittstock, director of the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation, later said that 'she has been released. She was released this morning'. 'Doctors are still establishing exactly what happened,' she said.

Charlene, 43, who was last seen in Monaco in January, shared professional photographs of a reunion with her family on Instagram last month (pictured)

Albert's office said in a statement that the princess was 'being very closely monitored by her medical team who have affirmed that her condition is reassuring.'

The Zimbabwean-born princess underwent surgery in August, but few details have been publicly released.

How Charlene and Albert made solo outings in South Africa and Monaco during seven months apart January 27 - Charlene is pictured with Albert for the Sainte Devote Ceremony in Monaco. March 18 - Charlene is pictured at the memorial for the late Zulu monarch, King Goodwill Zwelithini at the KwaKhethomthandayo Royal Palace in Nongoma, South Africa April 2 - Charlene posts an Instagram picture of herself, Albert and their twins Jacques and Gabriella for Easter. It is unknown where the image was taken. May 8 - Albert, Jacques and Gabriella attend a Grand Prix event in Monaco without Charlene May 10 - Albert attends Monaco Gala Awards in Monaco without Charlene May 18 - Charlene shares her first picture from her conservation trip in South Africa June 1 - Prince Albert II, Jacques and Gabriella attend event at Oceanic Museum in Monaco June 3 - New photos emerge of Charlene on her conservation trip June 5- Charlene puts on a united front as she shares a photo with her family to mark her niece's fifth birthday with her brother's family and Albert and the twins in South Africa June 7 - Albert and the twins attend the World Rugby Sevens without Charlene June 17 - Prince Albert attends Red Cross Summer concert in Monte Carlo with his sister Princess Caroline of Hanover June 18 - Prince Albert appears alone Monte Carlo TV Festival June 24 - Charlene's foundation releases a statement saying the royal is unable to travel and is undergoing procedures for an ear, nose and throat infection July 2 - Charlene and Albert mark their 10th anniversary separately. 'This year will be the first time that I'm not with my husband on our anniversary in July, which is difficult, and it saddens me,' Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene said in a statement. July 3 - Albert appears with glamorous niece Charlotte Casiraghi at the 15th international Monte-Carlo Jumping event, which is part of the Longines Global Champions Tour of Monaco, July 27 - Prince Albert attends Olympics alone in Tokyo August 13 - Charlene undergoes a four-hour operation. The reason is not announced August 25 - Charlene shares photos of Prince Albert, Gabriella and Jacques visiting her in South Africa August 31 - Speculation mounts in the media about couple's relationship Advertisement

Her latest health scare was 'part of the recovery,' Wittstock said. 'She has been in a lot of pain.'

Charlene and Albert reunited in August for the first time in months after the monarch and their children flew to South Africa, but photographs of the pair embracing were branded 'awkward' by a body language expert.

In recent weeks, lifestyle magazines across Europe have speculated feverishly that the royal couple could be headed for divorce. French magazine Madame Figaro stated the images 'failed to convince the Monegasques' amid reports Charlene is looking for a house in Johannesburg.

According to The Telegraph, the magazine asked: 'How long can she remain away from her children, her duties?'

'How long will the fight against rhinoceros poaching remain the Princess of Monaco's top priority?

'How long will Albert II of Monaco go on bearing this affront, which is becoming ridiculous?'

Historian Philippe Delorme said that 'lots of people got the impression it was an arranged marriage' between Charlene and Albert, adding: 'Albert chose a wife who resembled his mother, and Charlene clearly felt very ill at ease in this Grace Kelly role they wanted her to play'

The mounting speculation about the couple's marriage comes after Charlene shared professional photographs of her reunion with Prince Albert online, saying she was 'thrilled' to have her family back.

She shared a series of photos cuddled up with her kids in South Africa with the caption: 'I am so thrilled to have my family back with me (Gabriella decided to give herself a haircut!!!) Sorry my Bella I tried my best to fix it,' referring to her daughter's choppy fringe.

However a body language expert told FEMAIL Charlene showed 'no emotional bond' towards her husband Prince Albert in the images.

Judi James said that rather than being the loved-up reunion photo one would expect of a couple surrounded by split rumours, the royals' poses suggested 'no signs of connection between awkward-looking Albert and Charlene'.

Charlene has been in South Africa since at least March, with media reports suggesting she is looking for a house there.

The prince, who already supports two illegitimate children, is alleged to have been in a relationship with a Brazilian woman which resulted in a daughter in 2005.

The claim, which his lawyers dismissed as a 'hoax', is particularly painful as he was dating Charlene at the time, having met in 2000.

However, Charlene has publicly supported her husband, and the palace have reiterated she is only in South Africa because she's unable to fly.

On August 13, the Monaco palace released a statement saying Charlene was to undergo surgery.

It read: 'Princess Charlene will undergo an operation today, Friday, August 13, for four hours under general anaesthesia.'

The princess will not return to Monaco until at least the end of October.

Princess Charlene, who has been well enough to conduct interviews from South Africa and has been seen out and about, has used the time to promote her anti-poaching initiative, Chasing Zero.

Charlene's last formal engagement was on January 27 when she joined Albert for the Sainte Devote Ceremony in Monte Carlo. She has not been seen at home since.

Instead she has been keeping followers updated through social media posts and media interviews, in which she has spoken candidly about missing her children and described her husband as 'her rock'.

Mummy's boy: Princess Charlene poses with her son Jacques, who is heir to the Monaco throne. She said she was delighted to be back with her family. The family were last together at the start of June, when Albert and the children flew out to South Africa to be with Charlene

Play time! Twins Jacques and Gabriella climb a tree in one of the photos shared on Instagram

Speaking to South Africa Radio 702's host Mandy Wiener, the royal said: '[It's] very frustrating, terribly frustrating. I can't wait to get back to them, I can't wait to see my children.'

Charlene revealed: 'It's the longest period I've actually been away from Europe, let alone my children, but I'm FaceTiming them most days and they've been here and will be returning to see me again after my procedure.

'It's an amazing opportunity [to be here] but I'm very sad I can't be with my children this summer in Europe.'

She added that she was initially only supposed to be in her native South Africa for ten to 12 days for a conservation trip with her Princess Charlene of Monaco foundation.

However, the royal had a problem 'equalising her ears' and was told by a doctor that she was suffering from a serious sinus infection.

'It's taken time to address the problem that I'm having,' explained Charlene. 'I cannot go into full detail, but I cannot force healing so I will be grounded in South Africa until the end of October.

Charlene's (pictured with her family) last formal engagement was on January 27 when she joined Albert for the Sainte Devote Ceremony in Monte Carlo. She has not been seen at home since

'The reason being I cannot fly above 3,000 metres otherwise I'll have a problem with my ears.

'I feel well, I feel good, it's just obviously a waiting game for me, but I've had a great opportunity to understand a little bit more about South Africa, the environment, the needs and it's been wonderful to be back in South Africa, and I think at this time it's crucial that people are aware of certain things via my foundation.'

Charlene joined the video interview from bush country in the KwaZulu-Natal region.

She has also shared videos released by the Monaco royal palace to mark her and Albert's 10th wedding anniversary, which took place in July. The couple spent the milestone thousands of miles apart.

But royal sources have suggested the princess has 'no plans' to return soon. A palace source told Paris Match: 'The Princess has, for the time being, in reality, no intention of returning.'

Last Monaco outing together: Charlene and Albert were last pictured together at an official event together in January at the Sainte Devote Ceremony in Monaco. Albert has made a few visits to South Africa since

Former Olympic swimmer Charlene reportedly tried to flee Monaco for her native South Africa on three separate occasions before the royal wedding. She was seen in floods of tears on her wedding day in 2011 (pictured)

The separation is also affecting Charlene's relationship with the people of Monaco.

Stephane Bearn uses an impeccably sourced piece in the latest Paris Match to discuss the torturous separation.

He describes subjects in Monaco becoming increasingly angry about their runaway Princess, as they criticise everything from Charlene's mood swings to her appearance.

Princess Charlene's trials and tribulations in the Monaco royal family 1987 - Bea Fiedler, a German topless model, claims her son Daniel was the prince's son. 1992 - An American national files a paternity lawsuit against the Prince, claiming that he was the father of her daughter, Jazmin Grace. 2000 - Princess Charlene meets Prince Albert at the Mare Nostrum swimming competition in Monte Carlo 2005 - In May, a former flight attendant claims that her youngest son, whom she named Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste, was Prince Albert's child. She states that his parentage had been proven by DNA tests requested by the Monegasque government. On 6 July, a few days before he was enthroned on 12 July, the Prince officially confirms via his lawyer Lacoste that Alexandre was his biological son. 2006 - After a DNA test confirmed the child's parentage, Albert admitted, via statement from his lawyer, that he is Jazmin Grace's father. 2010 - Princess Charlene and Prince Albert announce their engagement 2011 - Princess Charlene was said to have bolted two days before the royal wedding after hearing Prince Albert had a third love child during their relationship. It was alleged that Charlene tried to flee home to South Africa three times before her 'arranged marriage', at one point taking refuge inside her country's embassy in Paris. Monaco officials were said to have coaxed her back by brokering a deal between the Prince and his reluctant bride that she provide him with a legitimate heir. After that she would be free to leave of her own free will. During the wedding, Charlene was in floods of tears, while her husband looked on impassively. Later in the year, Princess Charlene confessed she felt 'very lonely' in Monaco 2012 - Princess Charlene was reported to be 'depressed' at her failure to provide her husband with a legitimate heir. 2014 - Pregnancy was announced in May. In December Charlene gave birth to twins Princess Gabriella and heir to the throne Prince Jacques. 2017 - Princess Charlene visits Africa, tells media: 'I am African and this is my heritage. It will always be. It's in my heart and in my veins.' 2019 - In a rare interview, Princess Charlene confessed it is 'sometimes hard to smile' and said the year had been 'very painful'In another interview, she said she found motherhood 'exhausting' 2020 - Charlene debuts a shocking half-shaved hairstyle. It is announced Prince Albert of Monaco will appear in court in the new year to fight explosive claims he fathered a third love child with a secret girlfriend before marrying his now wife Princess Charlene. 2021 - January 27 - Charlene is pictured with Albert for the Sainte Devote Ceremony in Monaco. It is the last time she has been seen in Monaco this year. Advertisement

'In Monaco, since the departure of Charlene, tongues have loosened,' Mr Bearn writes. 'In the whirlwind of a hard-nosed court, her fine shine is rubbing off. Her sad looks are regarded as haggard.

'Disappointed Monegasques talk about her anger, her whimsical moods, which are as changeable as her hair.'

He added: 'The Palace had to invoke a suffering Princess so often that the Monegasques today find it hard to believe. By crying wolf, the mother of Jacques and Gabriella would have discredited and isolated herself.'

During her trip, Charlene also debuted a dramatic new shaved hairstyle.

She showcased the 'French crop' hairdo - featuring a longer strip on top of the head and dramatically shaved back and sides - in snaps shared on her charity's Instagram page in late May.

The royal first stepped out with a dramatic half-shaved head in December 2020 but has since gone even shorter and bolder with the cut.

Charlene and Albert's marriage has been plagued with rumours from the start.

The couple met at the Mare Nostrum swimming competition in Monte Carlo in 2000, announced their engagement in 2010.

Former Olympic swimmer Charlene reportedly tried to flee Monaco for her native South Africa on three separate occasions before the royal wedding after discovering Albert had allegedly fathered a love child - his third - while they were together.

Monaco officials were said to have coaxed her back by brokering a deal between the Prince and his reluctant bride, saying she could leave once she had provided him with a legitimate heir.

One source said at the time: 'Charlene will provide an heir, then if things don't go well, she will receive a generous divorce settlement once she's served a decent amount of time.'

Charlene was seen in floods of tears on her wedding day in 2011.

Just one year after their wedding, it was reported that Charlene was 'depressed' at her failure to provide her husband with a legitimate heir.

Her pregnancy was announced in May 2014, and in December that year she gave birth to twins Princess Gabriella and heir to the throne Prince Jacques.

In the 10 years since, Charlene has rarely spoken publicly of her experience.

In 2017, the Princess made an emotional return to Africa, where she spoke about how much the continent means to her.

'I am African and this is my heritage. It will always be. Its in my heart and in my veins,' she told Eyewitness News.

Last year she admitted life was 'very painful', saying: 'I have the privilege of having this life, but I miss my family and my friends in South Africa and I'm often sad because I cannot always be there for them.'

It's been a tumultuous start to the year for the royal, after news emerged that her husband is facing a paternity suit over a love child born in the early years of their relationship.

The 34-year-old claimant  who cannot be named for legal reasons  says she had a passionate affair with Albert, leading to the birth of their daughter  whose name is also classified  on July 4, 2005.

Albert received a handwritten letter from the child, who is now 15, in September last year reading: I don't understand why I grew up without a father, and now that I have found you, you don't want to see me.

Legal papers were also filed, as lawyers for the claimant called on Albert to undergo a DNA test  just as he did before finally being identified as the father of two illegitimate children born in the 1990s and early 2000s.

In January, Charlene spoke publicly for the first time since the allegations, telling Point de Vue: 'When my husband has problems, he tells me about it. I often tell him, "No matter what, no matter what, I'm a thousand percent behind you. I'll stand by you whatever you do, in good times or in bad."

The mother-of-two went on to say she also often tells her husband she will 'protect him' and will 'always be by his side.'

Charlene, who was raised in South Africa and represented the country at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, travelled to Thanda Safari in KwaZulu-Natal in January to learn more about being done by the Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation South Africa to help save rhinos from poachers.

The princess took part in conservation operations including rhino monitoring and tracking, deployment with the Anti-Poaching Unit, educational wildlife photography sessions, and a White Rhino dart and dehorning exercise.
Princess Eugenie has told how studying one of the paintings in the Queen's collection sparked her love of art - and helped her pass her A-Level.

Appearing in a special episode of the Sky Arts show Inside Art: Masterpieces from Buckingham Palace, filmed at The Queens Gallery, the mother-of-one revealed she was treated to a personal tour with its curators when she was 16.

The episode was filmed in December 2020 before the princess gave birth to her son August, whom she shares with husband Jack Brooksbank, as her baby bump is visible beneath her floral maxi dress by Veronica Beard.

Eugenie, 31, who now works as a director at the Hauser and Wirth gallery, said that tour was when she experienced her first falling in love with art 'moment' and began to truly understand its power.

Appearing in a special episode of the Sky Arts show Inside Art: Masterpieces from Buckingham Palace, filmed at The Queens Gallery, Princess Eugenie revealed she was treated to a personal tour with its curators when she was 16

She told Inside Art host Kate Bryan: 'You dont realise the extent of the masterpieces that are here until you get your education.

'I did history of art at school, and I learned about these greats that we're sitting with today.

'At school, history of art was so exciting because all of a sudden you learn about these incredible works.'

Describing Federico Zuccaros Calumny of Apelles, she added: 'I actually studied a painting from the Royal Collection at school when I was 16.

'Some of the great people at the Royal Collection showed me around and I chose it. It was the first time I'd really delved into the collection.

Eugenie, 31, who now works as a director at the Hauser and Wirth gallery, said her tour of the Queen's Collection at the Palace was when she experienced her first falling in love with art 'moment' and began to truly understand its power (pictured with husband Jack Brooksbank in 2018)

The 16th century oil painting which inspired Princess Eugenie to pursue art as a career During her interview with Sky News, Princess Eugenie described her first 'moment' with a piece of art and said she had been blown away by Federico Zuccaros Calumny, which is often known as 'Calumny of Apelles' (pictured) During her interview with Sky News, Princess Eugenie described her first 'moment' with a piece of art. She said she had been blown away by Federico Zuccaros Calumny, which is often known as 'Calumny of Apelles'. The oil painting, which is part of the Royal Collection Trust, is one of two surviving versions of the same composition. Federico took charge of the decoration of Villa Farnese at Caprarola for Cardinal Alessandro Farnese upon the death of his brother Taddeo in 1566. However Farnese and Federico disagreed over payment and in 1569, Jacopo Bertoia was brought in to replace the artist. Calumny is Federico's response to the disagreement, and is allegorical of the situation in his personal life. He adapted classical mythology for personal use, having been inspired by a fourth-century BC description of a lost painting of the same subject, painted in similar circumstances by Apelles. Federico's adaptation of the scene is a version which he considered the Calumny with the Happy Ending. The original description describes Calumny dragging the young man representing Innocence off by the hair in triumph, accompanied by Envy, Treachery and Deceit and followed by a Repentance and Truth. However Federicos hero is instead led off under the protection of Mercury. On the left of the painting is King Midas, who was famous for his bad judgement and is being led away by figures of Suspicion and Calumny, the latter holding up a lighted torch in her left hand. Meanwhile Envy lurks in the shadows behind, with emaciated breast and snakes in her hair. Minerva, goddess of wisdom, restrains the king from releasing Rage, blindfolded and manacled. The animals represent the vices that thrive under bad government: a fox (Cruelty), a wolf (Malice), a toad (Avarice), a harpy (Greed) and a leopard (Fraudulence). According to the Royal Collection Trust, the painting records the artist's 'deep felt anger' over the argument with Farnese. Advertisement

'Looking at that painting in this gallery was definitely my first "moment".'

The daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York described how she studied one of the pieces from her grandmother's collection during her history of art course at school.

Admitting she had once dreamed of becoming an artist herself, she said all it amounted to in the end was making papier mache gifts for her parents Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson at Christmas and birthdays.

Speaking about having the opportunity to sit for 'ages' in the Queen's gallery to take in the works, she said: 'Art has to be about how you understand it and how you feel about it.

The episode was filmed in December 2020 before the princess gave birth to her son August, whom she shares with husband Jack Brooksbank, as her baby bump is visible beneath her floral maxi dress by Veronica Beard

Writing on Instagram , Eugenie said it was a 'privilege' to speak to Inside Art about the 'remarkable' masterpieces from the Buckingham Palace exhibition, which is now open to the public

'Someone cant tell you how to feel. You have to look at it and think, "Oh my God, now Im transported to Venice, or in the fields with the cows". Its how you understand it.'

Writing on Instagram, Eugenie said it was a 'privilege' to speak to Inside Art about the 'remarkable' masterpieces from the Buckingham Palace exhibition, which is now open to the public.

For her appearance in the documentary, Eugenie opted for flat shoes, completing her look with a Wedel Art Collective face mask reading 'You Me'.

She wore her auburn locks in a loose wave around her shoulders and went for a natural make-up look.

The daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York described how she studied one of the pieces from her grandmother's collection during her history of art course at school

Eugenie attended Marlborough College - the same school as the Duchess of Cambridge - and achieved As at A-Level in art and English literature, as well as a B in history of art.

She went on to study a combined degree of English Literature, History of Art and Politics at Newcastle University and was awarded a 2:1.

Eugenie then worked for an online auction firm before taking up her current role.
British backpacker Grace Millane's killer attempted to blame her for her own death '21 times' during a 'self-serving police interview', according to a linguistic expert.

Jesse Kempson, 28, strangled Miss Millane, 21, in his studio apartment in Auckland, New Zealand, after the pair met on dating app Tinder in December 2018, eight months after raping another Briton, and a year after subjecting his girlfriend to sexual assault and abuse.

But in newly analysed footage of Kempson's police interviews, it appears the murderer - who is serving a 17-year minimum sentence for Grace's death - attempted to shift the blame onto his victim.

In scenes filmed for brand-new true crime documentary The Murder Of Grace Millane: A Faking It Special, available on discovery+, linguistic expert Dawn Archer highlights a staggering 21 examples where Kempson tries to shift the blame off of himself and onto Grace.

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British backpacker Grace Millane's killer attempted to blame her for her own death '21 times' during a 'self-serving police interview' (pictured), according to a linguistic expert

Jesse Kempson, 28, strangled Miss Millane (pictured), 21, in his studio apartment in Auckland, New Zealand, after the pair met on dating app Tinder in December 2018, eight months after raping another Briton, and a year after subjecting his girlfriend to sexual assault and abuse

In one of his police interviews, Kempson claimed that Grace, the daughter of a successful property developer from Wickford, Essex, had died accidentally as a result of rough sex gone wrong.

Analysing the interview, Ms Archer said: 'I'm calling it the blame shifting strategy, and I've found 21 examples.'

'I would describe it as making Grace the acting initiator. So, she's the one doing the asking and he's the one doing the responding.'

As Dawn explained, this becomes more significant when Kempson begins to describe how Grace died.

'"And then she told me to hold her throat." Now that is how she died, and we are told here that it was her idea. These are examples of a strategy rather than an accidental thing, because it's happening 21 times.

But in newly analysed footage of Kempson's police interviews, it appears the murderer - who is serving a 17-year minimum sentence for Grace's death - attempted to shift the blame onto his victim. Pictured, linguistic expert Dawn Archer

In scenes filmed for brand-new true crime documentary The Murder Of Grace Millane: A Faking It Special, available on discovery+, linguistic expert Dawn Archer highlights a staggering 21 examples where Kempson (pictured right) tries to shift the blame off of himself and onto Grace

'What he's wanting the police officer to believe is that this was rough sex gone wrong and the person who initiated the sex to become as rough as it was, was Grace and not Jesse Kempson. It makes him less culpable.'

In November 2018, Grace arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, for a two week stay, after spending a spectacular six weeks backpacking in South America.

It was meant to be the trip of a lifetime - but on December 2, when Grace failed to contact her family and reply to birthday messages, a missing person's report was filed.

It later emerged that Grace had died in the company of a Tinder date, then 26-year-old Kempson, who claimed she had passed away during consensual sex.

But as CCTV footage showed, Kempson had tried to cover his tracks by transporting Grace's body in a suitcase and burying her in a shallow grave.

In one of his police interviews, Kempson claimed that Grace (pictured), the daughter of a successful property developer from Wickford, Essex, had died accidentally as a result of rough sex gone wrong

From the start of his first police interviews, there were clear signs of deception, according to body language expert Dr Cliff Lansley.

He said Kempson gave off a trio of reliable indicators of dishonesty when quizzed by police.

'As soon as the word Grace is mentioned, he starts to tense up. We see this little tweak under the table of the legs coming together and squeezing his hands in between his thighs.' he said.

Kempson also apparently displayed classic signs of anxiety, suggesting fear that his lies were about to be exposed.

'The tension is reinforced by him now taking a sip of water. When we get anxious, our mouth goes dry. Often, we'll swallow or lick the lips or take a sip of water when we hit an anxiety point,' said the expert.

In November 2019, Jesse Kempson was tried and convicted for the murder of Grace Millane and sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 17 years. Pictured: Kempson at New Zealand's High Court in November 2019

'With the combination of dry mouth, hands under the table, clamping the legs, we've got three indicators that suggest anxiety and fear. This could be the fear of being caught in a lie.'

Grace's final hours on the Tinder date that led to her death: December 1, 2018 5.45pm: Grace Millane was shown arriving in front of the casino's 20 foot tall Christmas tree, where she stood waiting for her date. She sends a picture of the tree to her parents in Essex. He arrives and they hug. 6pm: The two of them walk into the casino and find Andy's Burger Bar. He and Grace were seen ordering drinks and finding a table. 7.12pm: The couple left the burger bar and cross the road into the Mexican cafe where they spend the next hour until the defendant came to pay the bill with her standing beside him. 8.27pm: The pair were filmed in the distance crossing Albert Street and moving ever closer to the killer's home. They headed into the Bluestone Room where the accused had earlier been drinking beer alone. They kiss. 9.41pm: CCTV shows the couple entering the hotel where the killer was living. They enter the lift and head to the killer's apartment. In the hours that followed she was brutally murdered, possibly in the early hours of December 2, her birthday. Advertisement

Another indicator of deception in Kempson's initial interview was his lack of ability to add detail, and the three-second pause he leaves before answering the officer's questions on how the date with Grace went.

'We've got a huge hesitation; this is a disfluency. He's having to think hard about the question that would be simple for a truth teller but would be difficult for a lie teller,' Cliff said. 'He can't give detail about the evening, so the officer is on to him.'

Ms Archer added that features in Kempson's speech further underlined his lies, such as a drop in volume.

'If you've had a really nice evening, you don't need to pause for three seconds and then say 'mmm yeah, pretty good,' she suggested. 'His volume drops significantly at that point.

'So, we've had a stress indicator through the voice quality and now we have a distance indicator through the volume drop.'

Kempson's story soon unravelled and police also gathered more evidence against him, including further CCTV footage and blood stains in Kempson's apartment.

Soon after, officers opened a homicide investigation, charging Kempson with Grace's murder.

Quickly, Kempson's story changed. 'He had two days to sweat and think about what was coming. And then, from my perspective, he gave a self-serving interview,' Detective Inspector Scott Beard recalled.

Kempson revealed his story of how he had strangled Grace and how he had attempted to shake her awake the morning after discovering that she had died.

As Cliff pointed out, features in Kempson's behaviour suggested anger rather than panic, further indicating that his story of how Grace died was fabricated.

'What he's mimicking with his gestures and his upper lip is violent anger. So, the upper lip is tightened, the upper margin of his lip has rolled inwards into the mouth. This is anger,' said the expert.

'He seems to be reliving that moment not only cognitively but emotionally, and it's oozing out of his pours and it's almost like it's a replay of the moment. A violent, angry episode, not a sad, desperate, fearful episode.'

Serial sex attacker Kempson murdered Grace on the night of December 2, 2018 - the day before her 22nd birthday.

The pair had met in Auckland and gone for drinks before Kempson took her back to a hotel where he was living and strangled her to death during sex.

He then took shocking photos of her dead body, watched pornography, and then went on another date before bundling Grace's body into a suitcase which he buried in a shallow grave in woodlands.

In November 2019, Jesse Kempson was tried and convicted for the murder of Grace Millane and sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 17 years.

The Murder Of Grace Millane: A Faking It Special is available to stream now exclusively on discovery+
Prince Charles and Camilla visited the Scottish mansion at the centre of the 'cash for Knighthood' storm yesterday.

The couple were at Dumfries House in Ayrshire where they unfurled the huge patchwork mosaic made up of more than 9,000 handmade squares and weighing a staggering 130 kilos from the historic Adam Bridge.

The Palladian mansion is at the centre of the cash for favours scandal as questions arise over how donations for Charless cherished scheme to renovate Dumfries House were solicited and what may have been promised in return.

Former fixer William Bortrick said the Royal was '100 per cent' behind an offer to help Saudi tycoon Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz get UK citizenship.

The allegation by William Bortrick - a paid advisor to Dr bin Mahfouz, who is a major donor to Charles's charities - came as the Prince's former valet Michael Fawcett was forced to step down as chief of the Prince's Foundation.

A string of claims about 58-year-old Mr Fawcett's conduct while running the charity included the allegation he had offered to 'support' Dr bin Mahfouz in his efforts to secure both a knighthood and British citizenship.

One of Mr Fawcett's main tasks was securing donations for Dumfries House, which Charles saved for the nation in 2007  in part through a 20million loan from his then charitable trust.

Despite the storm, Prince Charles, 71, and Camilla, 72, appeared in good spirits on the visit to Dumfries House together yesterday, where they unveiled a giant knitted art installation over a bridge.

Prince Charles and Camilla visited the Scottish mansion at the centre of the 'cash for Knighthood' storm yesterday

The Palladian mansion is at the centre of the cash for favours scandal as questions arise over how donations for Charless cherished scheme to renovate Dumfries House were solicited and what may have been promised in return

New allegations about Charles's apparent involvement emerged earlier this week in a draft letter from Mr Bortrick to Dr bin Mahfouz, who donated more than 1.5million to Charles's charities.

The letter by Burke's Peerage publisher Mr Bortrick, which was drafted in May 2014 and revealed by The Times on Monday, said Dr bin Mahfouz's application for citizenship would 'now take the highest priority'.

It added: 'His Royal Highness supports these applications 100 per cent, as there is no greater example of contribution [than] yours, therefore this should be rewarded and recognised accordingly.'

A spokesman for the Prince said: 'The Prince of Wales has no knowledge of the alleged offer of honours or British citizenship on the basis of donation to his charities and fully supports the investigation now under way by The Prince's Foundation.'

Prince Charles is pictured with his former valet Michael Fawcett, 58, at the Castle of Mey in Caithness, Scotland, in May 2019

Mr Bortrick also suggested in the draft letter that Dr bin Mahfouz would get the opportunity to meet the Queen 'in the next few months', and receive the 'special honours' of a knighthood before full House of Lords membership.

But the newspaper reported that there was no evidence of whether the letter was sent or agreed by Charles's advisers - and MailOnline has contacted a Clarence House spokesman for comment.

Mr Bortrick also denied any wrongdoing and that the proposed arrangement, revealed in an email written by Mr Wynne-Parker and published last weekend by The Mail on Sunday, was ever discussed with him.

Last week the Prince's Foundation launched an investigation following other 'cash for access' claims.

Society fixer Michael Wynne-Parker was accused of offering a dinner with Charles and an overnight stay at Dumfries House for 100,000.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were all smiles yesterday as they unveiled a giant knitted art installation ~(pictured) in Scotland as part of a project to get the world knitting

Prince Charles (pictured left) personally came up with the idea for the patchwork mosaic, which features squares contributed by individuals and knitting groups from all over the world - as far afield as Australia and America

Mr Wynne-Parker, an adviser to Dr bin Mahfouz, allegedly wrote an email saying fixers would pocket up to 25 per cent of the fees.

Former fixer claims Royal was '100 per cent' behind an offer to help Saudi tycoon Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz get UK citizenship Dr Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz Dr Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz, pictured meeting Prince Charles, is one of Britain's most generous benefactors Dr Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz is one of Britain's most generous benefactors who holds a string of titles in the UK. The millionaire Saudi businessman's family made their fortune in the Middle East through hotels, property and manufacturing. In 2012 Dr Mahfouz, 51, set up the Mahfouz Foundation, a charity that aims to 'advance the education of the public in the United Kingdom in the culture, history, language, literature and institutions of the Middle East'. Three years later Dr Mahfouz donated 370,000 to the Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust, which Prince Charles is president of, to help renovate the estate despite the Saudi never having visited it. He was honoured with the Mahfouz Wood, to the east of the 15th Century castle, and six benches were installed with plaques bearing the names of Dr Mahfouz, his father and four brothers will be placed around the castle's gardens. He has also donated a significant sum to Dumfries House, the 18th Century Palladian mansion in Ayrshire, which the Prince's Foundation had painstakingly being working to restore. Dr Mahfouz holds the title of Lord and Baron of Abernethy as well as his honorary CBE awarded in a private ceremony at Buckingham Palace in 2016. He has been made a life Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts as well as being awarded Knight Grand Cross in the Companionate of Merit of the Military and Hospitaller Order of St Lazarus of Jerusalem. He has been elected a fellow of Pembroke College, Oxford and has a bust in his honour at Wolfson College, Cambridge. A spokesman for Dr bin Mahfouz said he had 'not had personal or direct communication to either request, influence or make any arrangements regarding citizenship or knighthood with Mr Fawcett, or anyone connected to HRH The Prince of Wales or the Prince's Foundation'. Advertisement

But the latest disclosures pose far more serious questions about the conduct of those close to the prince.

They will also prompt renewed scrutiny of the honours system and whether it is open to monetary influence.

Earlier this week, the Prince's Foundation said it had beefed up its investigation by arranging for a senior forensic accountant from a 'big four' firm to carry out an independent review.

The bombshell letter was allegedly written by Mr Fawcett on August 18, 2017, to Dr bin Mahfouz's aide Busief Lamlum.

It says: 'In light of the ongoing and most recent generosity of His Excellency... I am happy to confirm to you, in confidence, that we are willing and happy to support and contribute to the application for Citizenship.

'I can further confirm that we are willing to make [an] application to increase His Excellency's honour from Honorary CBE to that of KBE in accordance with Her Majesty's Honours Committee.'

The letter makes no effort to disguise that support for any knighthood and citizenship application depends on Dr bin Mahfouz's financial support.

Writing in his then capacity as chief executive of the Dumfries House Trust, Mr Fawcett added: 'I hope that this confirmation is sufficient in allowing us to go forward.'

A year later, Mr Fawcett was put in charge of Charles's entire charitable empire as chief executive of the Foundation.

Earlier this week, Clarence House said it was taking the matter 'very seriously'. Mr Fawcett declined to comment.

And yesterday, Charles appeared in good spirits as he unveiled the knitted blanket at Dumfries House.

Prince Charles personally came up with the idea for the patchwork mosaic, which features squares contributed by individuals and knitting groups from all over the world - as far afield as Australia and America - as a way to celebrate knitting as a traditional craft form and highlight the associated mental health benefits that practising the skill can bring.

The installation was organised by The Princes Foundation charity and will provide a joyous kaleidoscope of colour and textile for visitors to admire.

On the prompt of a 3-2-1, Charles and Camilla gamely helped to heave the display over the bridge.

I do so really want to offer my congratulations. Its just wonderful, the Prince, dressed in a kilt and sporran, said.

Admiring the display from beneath the bridge afterwards Camilla remarked: Its brilliant. The colours are fantastic.

The team at The Princes Foundation, whose headquarters are at Dumfries House, received knitted squares from all over the world, including from Italy, Belgium, Tasmania, the United States and Canada.

The age of contributors ranged from nine-year-old Sasha Bolt from Sanquhar to 101-year-old Ethel Carlyle from Troon - who sadly died shortly after contributing her square - reflecting the universal appeal of knitting.

The squares were then sewn together to create the patchwork mosaic by staff from The Princes Foundation, participants of the charitys textiles programmes and prisoners from Cornton Vale Prison in Stirling as part of a rehabilitation initiative.

The project is a way to celebrate knitting as a traditional craft form and highlight the associated mental health benefits that practising the skill can bring. Pictured centre, The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, known as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay when in Scotland

The installation (pictured) was organised by The Princes Foundation charity and will provide a joyous kaleidoscope of colour and textile for visitors to admire

On the prompt of a 3-2-1, Charles (pictured) and Camilla gamely helped to heave the display over the bridge

I do so really want to offer my congratulations. Its just wonderful, the Prince (pictured centre-right), dressed in a kilt and sporran, said

The patchwork will eventually be dismantled into smaller blankets and distributed to charities in need.

Jessie Boardman, 92, who is the oldest living person to take part, said: Ive knitted all my life. I dont know what I would do without it. 

Sasha Bolt, nine, the youngest participant, added: My mum and my family knits and I have always knitted. I really enjoy it. I find it really relaxing. 

The knitting project forms part of a wider collaboration between The Princes Foundation and The Joseph Ettedgui Charitable Foundation that aims to recreate communities of hand-knitters in the local area with an interest in turning their hobby into a viable business proposition.

Knitwise, which is run fortnightly by The Princes Foundation at Dumfries House, Trinity Buoy Wharf in London and in Ballater, Royal Deeside, brings together members of the local community from all walks of life to help them refine their knitting skills while socialising in a friendly, fun and sociable environment.

The objective of the initiative, which began early last year, is to train and develop a small team of locally based hand-knitters to a high standard to help future-proof the industry and create much needed employment and income in a deprived area of Scotland.

Ashleigh Douglas, Future Textiles manager for The Princes Foundation, said: We are proud to have finally unveiled our beautiful knitted art installation here at Dumfries House and would like to thank every single person who has contributed to it for their efforts.

The team at The Princes Foundation, whose headquarters are at Dumfries House, received knitted squares (pictured) from all over the world, including from Italy, Belgium, Tasmania, the United States and Canada

The age of contributors ranged from nine-year-old Sasha Bolt from Sanquhar to 101-year-old Ethel Carlyle from Troon - who sadly died shortly after contributing her square - reflecting the universal appeal of knitting. Pictured, the royal couple helping to unveil the artwork

The squares were then sewn together to create the patchwork mosaic by staff from The Princes Foundation, participants of the charitys textiles programmes and prisoners from Cornton Vale Prison in Stirling as part of a rehabilitation initiative. Pictured, the royal couple after the unveiling

The patchwork will eventually be dismantled into smaller blankets and distributed to charities in need. Pictured, Camilla and Charles chat with guests to the unveiling

Prince Charles (pictured left with Camilla) is Patron of the Campaign for Wool, which aims to raise public awareness around the benefits of wool as a natural, renewable and biodegradable fibre

'Since we announced the project last year, we have been inundated with colourful contributions from all over the world. It has been wonderful to see so many people come together to celebrate this dynamic craftform.

Ayrshire was once home to a booming textile industry but lack of training in traditional techniques such as hand-knitting, sewing, pattern-cutting and weaving has led to a skills shortage in the area.

'The Princes Foundation runs a number of different programmes and initiatives, such as Knitwise, which aim to help revive and revitalise these invaluable skills in a sustainable way.

Knitting is known to have multiple benefits for the mind and body including reducing depression and anxiety, relieving stress and helping improve motor functions.

Prince Charles is Patron of the Campaign for Wool, which aims to raise public awareness around the benefits of wool as a natural, renewable and biodegradable fibre.

Later, The Duchess of Cornwall praised a newly-refurbished womens refuge and said how badly such facilities were needed in the UK.

Camilla was visiting the South Ayrshire Womens Aid centre which offers information, advice, advocacy and safe refuge accommodation for women, children and young people who have experienced domestic abuse.

Their refuge accommodation, first taken over in 1997, was built as communal facility.

But thanks to a massive team effort, it has been reconfigured as eight self-contained flats to allow the women - many with children - privacy and dignity.

Speaking assuredly off the cuff - joking she would use any excuse to take off my mask - Camilla said she wanted to congratulate them on the brilliant work they had done.

I know how important these refuges are. I have seen quite a lot all over the country. But to see these separate accommodation, these flats.its the first time I have seen those.

'And talking to some of the ladies here I know what a difference it makes to them to have a bit of privacy, she said.

Again I would like to ret-iterate what an incredible job you all do for violence against women. It is so important to have all of you on side. Others might take a lead from your book and do the same in other parts of the country. 

Earlier Camilla viewed one of the flats, which housed their first clients last month, and met with one woman, who cannot be named for her safety, with two young children who had fled appalling domestic abuse.

Thank you for talking to me, the duchess said. The young woman told her how much she appreciated the facilities.

How long can you stay here? Camilla asked. A long as they can have me, she laughed.

They have eight flats here but there are probably a lot more need, Camilla replied. I can understand the importance to you of having somewhere safe to go, but also somewhere that offers you privacy as well as support and advice.
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Sophie Wessex, 56, cut a chic figure in as she visited the Westmoreland County show, near Kendal, today where she was joined by Princess Anne for a rare joint engagement.

The Countess, who lives in Bagshot Park in Windsor with her husband, Prince Edward 57, and their children, Lady Louise Windsor, 17, and James, Viscount Severn, 13, sported an eye-catching tweed jacket adorned with thin blue checks.

Sophie coupled the jacket with an ankle length pleated white skirt and a pink cashmere jumper with a frilled neckline.

The mother-of-two held a two-tone clutch that comprised of a burgundy suede section on one side and a dark brown leather section on the other.

Moo are you? The Countess of Wessex views the champion Hereford bull at the Westmorland County Show in Crooklands, Cumbria, who won first place and best exhibition for breed

Horsin around! The Countess of Wessex admires ponies at the Westmorland County Show in Crooklands, Cumbria

Princess Anne, Princess Royal (centre) and Sophie, Countess of Wessex (left) attend the Westmorland County Show

Founded in 1799, Westmorland is one of the UKs oldest agricultural societies and has previously been voted as one of the UKs favourite agricultural shows. Pictured: Princess Anne, chatting to riders

Sophie Wessex adorns some safety goggles and tries her hand at stonemasonry using a chisel, during the Westmorland County Show

Sophie opted for an understated nude heel that accentuated her country attire.

The countess was joined by Princess Anne, who cut a stylish figure in a tailored yellow jacket adorned with silver buttons and a green patterned ankle-length skirt.



The royal visit saw Sophie and the Princess Royal travelling to speak with representatives of their chosen charities and to also speak to he show's exhibitors.

Exhibitors of the show led both royals through the livestock penns to reveal the grand selection of local stock.

The Countess of Wessex walks with the show's exhibitors and smiled as they strolled along the grass

The Countess of Wessex touches some stone work from the home of John Lennon, during the Westmorland County Show in Crooklands, Cumbria

Visiting on the show's second day, Sophie inspected livestock and chatted with officials about the day's events.

In 2015, the show won Tourism Event of the Year in the Cumbria Tourism Awards as the exhibitors showed off their prized cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and alpacas. Pictured: Pigs on display

Anne, Princess Royal and Sophie, Countess of Wessex joke and smile together over a cheese stall filled with delicious treats

Visiting on the show's second day, Sophie inspected livestock and chatted with officials about the day's events.

The Countess' visit comes after her own presidency for the show back in 2018.

At the time, Christine Knipe, Chief Executive of WAS, said of Sophie's position, 'We are delighted and privileged that the Countess of Wessex has chosen to become the President of the Westmorland Agricultural Society this year.'

A young boy kneels before The Countess as he holds a prize sheep and she smiles back at him at the the Westmorland County Show

Sophie tries a selection of artisan cheese at a trade stall as she chats and laughs with the cheesemongers at the Westmorland show

The Countess of Wessex smiles as she views the champion Hereford bull at the Westmorland County Show in Crooklands, Cumbria

The Countess' visit comes after her own she became President of the Westmorland Agricultural Society in 2018

The Princess Royal laughs with farmers as she views the huge bulls at the Westmorland County Show in Crooklands, Cumbria

'We are all really pleased to have her support and it is wonderful for the Westmorland County Show.'

Founded in 1799, Westmorland is one of the UKs oldest agricultural societies and has previously been voted as one of the UKs favourite agricultural shows.

In 2015, the show won Tourism Event of the Year in the Cumbria Tourism Awards as the exhibitors showed off their prized cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and alpacas.

Offering horse classes, the option to shop at hundreds of trade stands and tempting treats at the North Wests largest local Food Hall, Westmorland County show is also known for its charity fundraising.
Pregnant Princess Beatrice appeared in good spirits as she attended a meeting in London today.

The Queen's granddaughter, 33, who is expecting her first baby with Italian property developer husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi this autumn, looked effortlessly stylish when in the British capital.

Putting on a fashionable display, mother-to-be Beatrice opted for a striped jacket paired with a matching blue frock as she attended a meeting for the Big Change Charitable Trust.

The Big Change, which connects and supports organisations that can create positive change for young people, was founded in 2010 by a group of six friends including Beatrice and Sir Richard Branson's children Holly and Sam.

Pregnant Princess Beatrice (pictured) appeared in good spirits as she attended a meeting in London today

Showing she meant business, Beatrice donned a trendy blue striped blazer for her meeting, featuring light blue lining and elegant silver button detailing.

She teamed the statement garment with a flowing royal blue dress, which showed off her blossoming baby bump.

Featuring a dropped hem and buttoned bodice, the frock was paired with an eye-catching cream and red handbag.

Keeping her phone in one hand, the Duke and Duchess of York's eldest daughter opted for a sophisticated smattering of makeup.

She completed her look by keeping her hair down, while sporting a name badge with her title and 'Big Change' penned on it.

The Queen's granddaughter (pictured), 33, who is expecting her first baby with Italian property developer husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi this autumn, looked effortlessly stylish when in the British capital

Beatrice recently showed off a rare glimpse of her central London home in an interview with parenting blogger Giovanna Fletcher, where she discussed the 'gift' of dyslexia, as well as her relationship with her husband's son Wolfie, five, who she described as a 'bonus child'.

Clearly keeping family close to her heart, the royal's living room is filled with photos of herself and Edo, as well as snaps from her travels across the world.

It comes as the royal spoke movingly about her experience of dyslexia  and says that if her unborn child is 'lucky enough' to be diagnosed with it, then she will see that as a 'gift'.

The Queen's granddaughter was herself diagnosed with the learning difficulty, which can affect reading, writing and spelling, when she was seven.

But while she had support from an early age, Beatrice revealed 'nobody made me feel like it was a lesser-than' when she was diagnosed.

Speaking to Hello! magazine, she referred to it as a 'gift' because she feels it has offered her different skills in life, saying: 'I think that having dyslexia and reflecting on where I am right now in my career path, and also as an older person looking back, it definitely has allowed me to look at things in a new way and come up with solutions.'

Her words echo the title of Ron Davis' 1994 book The Gift of Dyslexia, which became an immediate best-seller and a bible for people with dyslexia and parents of children with dyslexia.

She also described her role as a stepmother to Edo's son Wolfie, calling him her 'bonus son'  but admitted that home-schooling him during lockdown had been a challenge.
Married at First Sight UK stars reacted in shock after Nikita Jasmine's 'abusive' outburst during the first dinner party of the series.

The 27-year-old from Newcastle, wed Ant, 28, from Manchester, on the Channel 4 reality programme, but on last night's episode she was seen being escorted out of a dinner party by producers.

The bride had to be dragged away from the show's first dinner party in the midst of her expletive ridden rant, sparked after fellow contestant Jordon said that his wife Alexis wasn't his type physically.

And on tonight's episode, her co-stars are filmed as they reacted to her behaviour, with Marilyse telling her new husband Franky: 'Nikita was out of hand and quite abusive and not mature.'

Married at First Sight UK stars reacted in shock after Nikita Jasmine's 'abusive' outburst during the first dinner party of the series (pictured Morag and her husband Luke respond the following day)

Franky added: 'A woman swearing like that is the ugliest thing. I don't like that.'

Meanwhile his new wife agreed, saying: 'Yeah it's not attractive.'

The couple's co-stars Luke and Morag agreed, with Morag saying: 'I like Ant and I love my Nikita but they're not a team.

'So I can see where she felt sad and upset and alone. She just wanted her husband to be there for her and he wasn't.'

Nikita Jasmine, 27, from Newcastle, had to be dragged away from the first dinner party on Married at First Sight UK by security in the midst of an expletive ridden rant

And after the fiery dinner party, Ant and Nikita spent the night apart.

Nikita said: 'Last night was overwhelming because it was the first night all of us have been together.

'I do think that's why things escalated the way they did.'

Ant said: 'I keep trying to get it into her head, she can't speak to people the way she does.

'She constantly says she wants me to defend her and back her up - but I can't do that. It doesn't sit well with me.'

Her co-stars were stunned by her behaviour, with Marilyse telling her new husband Franky Nikita had been 'out of hand' and 'abusive'

It comes as the bride apologised for the foulmouthed rant that got her booted off the show.

Nikita told The Sun she was 'gutted' that her time on the programme had come to an end, but accepted that her actions at the dinner party meant she could no longer remain.

'I am truly sorry for any upset I caused during my time in the experiment. However, I will always stand up for what I believe in,' she said.

She said that while she can be 'loud and lairy', she is a 'good person' who defends her friends and believes that her antagonistic behaviour means she is 'misunderstood'.

Meanwhile Nikita confessed she had felt 'overwhelmed' coming together with other members of the cast at the dinner party

Nikita became 'overwhelmed and stressed' at the dinner party, which sees brides and grooms come together to asses their relationships, but accepts that producers were forced to remove her from the show.

Viewers were shocked by the outburst, with one calling the rant 'embarrassing', while another accused Nikita of being an 'attention seeker'.

Tension between the couple began before being seated at the dinner party, after another one of the bride's asked Nikita whether she was attracted to her husband initially, to which she said: 'He wasn't my type at all?'

When she noticed that he looked annoyed by her response, she laughed before swearing and telling him it was 'banter'.

Nikita first came under fire following her wedding day, where insulted the groom's looks, swore loudly at the altar and revealed she had written her vows while sitting on the toilet

Things took a turn when Nikita asked groom Jordon whether he was attracted to his wife Alexis. When he told her that his new bride wasn't his usual type, Nikita said: 'I think youre punching if youre quite honest'

She told the camera: 'I don't know what everyone thinks about me because I'm a lot to take in.'

When the couples sat down at the table for dinner, Nikita made an announcement.

She told the group: 'If anyone p****** me off everyone will know about it. As long as you're on my good side, you're alright.'

She added: 'Ill tell you by the end of the night who's on my good side, if youre on my bad side youll be wearing a f**** drink'.

Things took a turn when Nikita asked groom Jordon whether he was attracted to his wife Alexis.

When Jordon (pictured) told her to speak English' and stop swearing, she burst into a foulmouthed rant, exclaiming: 'Dont f**** speak to me like that'

As the argument continued, Alexis (left) defended her husband, saying: 'This is not a conversation for tonight. We are all here as a collective, I didnt come in here to sh* on Jordon'

When he told her that his new bride wasn't his usual type, Nikita said: 'I think youre punching if youre quite honest'.

Speaking to Ant she went on: Im done with it, I cant bear people like thathes doing my f*** head in, I hate him.

When Jordon told her to speak English' and stop swearing, she burst into a foulmouthed rant, exclaiming: 'Dont f**** speak to me like that.'

As the argument continued, Alexis defended her husband, saying: 'This is not a conversation for tonight. We are all here as a collective, I didnt come in here to s*** on Jordon'.

But Nikita continued to kick off, saying: 'He was saying I cant speak English, he was rude.

'I couldn't give a f** about this show, speak to me like sh**, I'm not doing this s***'.'

After storming out the room to speak to the show's producers, she overheard her co-stars speaking about the argument.

Bursting back into the dinner party, she exclaimed: 'Dont sit and f*** slag me off when Im not there, dont speak to me like a little f*** divvy, Im leaving the show, Im leaving anyway'
The Duke of Cambridge appeared in high spirits as he met with emergency workers to celebrate 999 Day today.

Prince William, 38, is currently living at Kensington Palace with Kate Middleton, 38, and their children Prince George, eight, Princess Charlotte, six, and Prince Louis, three, return to school and nursery in the capital.

Today marked his return to work after his annual summer break, with the royal meeting emergency responders and members of the public at the Dockhead Fire Station who have received life-saving support.

Among those who chatted with the Prince was five-year-old Lila, who was successfully resuscitated by ambulance technician Charlotte Speers, along with fire-fighters Marc Rustage and James Knight, after she collapsed.

The Duke of Cambridge, 38, appeared in high spirits as he met with emergency workers to celebrate Emergency Services Day today

Among those who chatted with the Prince was five-year-old Lila, who was successfully resuscitated by ambulance technician Charlotte Speers, along with fire-fighters Marc Rustage and James Knight, after she collapsed

At one stage, William could be seen laughing as he spoke with Lila, who had donned a glittering silver tiara for the event

Prince William's official Twitter account shared two images of the event, posting: 'This #999Day were saying a huge thank you to everyone working and volunteering in the emergency services and the NHS.

'Today, the Duke met some of the incredible people saving lives across the UK, as they were reunited with those that they saved.'

Prince William appeared relaxed at the event, donning an unbuttoned blue shirt with a navy blazer for the occasion.

In one photo, he could be seen leaning down to speak to Lila, a small blonde child, who had donned a glittering silver tiara for the event.

The Duke could be seen cracking a joke as he met with firefighters alongside London Fire Brigade Commissioner Andy Roe

The royal appeared in high spirits as he spoke with the emergency service workers at Dockheads fire station today

It comes after the royal's former private secretary has claimed. Kate Middleton's 'down-to-earth background' balances perfectly with Prince William's 'experience in The Firm' as they prepare to 'lead modern monarchy'.

Insiders have now revealed how the the couple's 'magic' comes from their different backgrounds, and said the pair plan to 'mix the traditional duty with being thoroughly modern parents'.

Speaking to People magazine, the Cambridge's former private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton said: 'He has the experience of knowing where the institution sits and seeing it evolve. The Duchess brings this pragmatic awareness of what it's like to be from a decent, down-to-earth family.'

Meanwhile Jamie said Kate's hard-working family background offered a perfect balance to Prince William's future as king.

Today marked the father-of-three's return to work after his annual summer break (pictured)

Prince William appeared relaxed at the event, donning an unbuttoned blue shirt with a navy blazer for the occasion

During the afternoon, he could be seen speaking with members of the RNLI crew while sitting at a picnic table

Another source added that they hope to focus on 'different subjects the family hasn't always connected with', with Jamie explaining: 'If you had scoured the realm you couldn't have got a better pair, frankly.'

It comes as royal author Andrew Lownie claimed the couple have been given a 'higher role' in the royal family due to their popularity.

Speaking to the Express, Andrew said the Duke and Duchess are stepping forward as the Queen is 'standing back.'

He explained: 'William and Kate, who seem to be very popular, are stepping into the position that Charles and Camilla had.

The royal spoke to emergency workers as well as their families during the event in London this afternoon

'Because they are, I would say almost more popular than Charles and Camilla, they've probably been given a higher role.'

It was recently revealed the Duke and Duchess are seriously considering a move to Windsor.

The mooted relocation, which would bring the family closer to the Queen, is the most significant sign yet that the couple are preparing to take on a far more senior role at the heart of the Royal Family.

A source said William and Kate have been eyeing up accommodation options in the area suitable for bringing up their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

They added that properties under consideration could include Fort Belvedere, a Grade II listed house with tower towards the southern end of Windsor Great Park, where King Edward VIII  the Queens uncle  signed his abdication papers in 1936.

The fort is owned by the Crown Estate and leased to the Weston family, close friends of the Royals. From the top of the tower, on a clear day, Edward once wrote, you could see the dome of St Pauls with a spyglass.

But the fort has been dismissed as an option by Palace aides.

Moving the family west  wherever they end up  could prove strategic as well as practical, as the monarchy prepares for major changes in the years ahead.

At the moment, the Cambridges split their time between their London base at Kensington Palace, where they also have their offices, and their country home of Anmer Hall in Norfolk.
Prince Charles' goddaughter Lady India Hicks has revealed several behind-the-scenes snaps as she prepares to marry David Flint Wood, her partner of 26 years, this weekend.

The granddaughter of Earl Mountbatten, 54, who was a bridesmaid at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, offered excited royal fans a glimpse at her enormous seating plan as she posted on Instagram ahead of the big day.

Meanwhile she also shared several images of a series of six tents which were being decorated with swaths of greenery.

The philanthropist had long insisted she had no plans to marry the former advertising executive, even after five children together, but revealed her change of heart on Instagram on 28th November.

Prince Charles ' goddaughter Lady India Hicks, 54, has revealed several behind-the-scenes snaps as she prepares to marry David Flint Wood, her partner of 26 years, this weekend

The granddaughter of Earl Mountbatten, who was a bridesmaid at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, offered excited royal fans a glimpse at her enormous seating plan as she posted on Instagram ahead of the big day

Lady India had earlier announced the news the wedding was this week by sharing a sweet throwback image of her and her fiance to her Instagram page.

She revealed the photos were taken by David Loftus, who will also be snapping her wedding.

'This time next week I will be married. MARRIED!' she wrote.

'Neither of us have ever been married before so we are both quite excited'.

Meanwhile she also shared several images of a series of six tents (left) which were being decorated with swaths of greenery (right)

India went on to share a video as she walked close to a small church while preparing for her wedding this weekend

She also shared how her youngest child Domino, 13, excitedly told her teacher of the upcoming nuptials.

'"My Mother is getting married" Domino was telling her teacher. "How lovely, who is she marrying?'"the teacher asked. "My father'"came the reply,' she added on Instagram.

She also shared a snap of her wedding invitations, revealing the pair's ceremony will be at the Brightwell Baldwin Parish Church in Oxfordshire followed by a reception at the Lord Nelson pub.

In December she revealed that pair were meant to have a winter wedding but put plans on hold after revealing the romance 'dipped' while trying to plan the big day in-line with Covid-19 restrictions.

The philanthropist had long insisted she had no plans to marry the former advertising executive, even after five children together, but revealed her change of heart on Instagram on 28th November. Couple are pictured together in 2004

'Today I should be David's wife. Yesterday we were meant to get married,' Miss Hicks explained at the time.

'Way back in early September we set the date for our tiny wedding. We sent out invitations, designed dresses, and debated vows (to obey or not to obey?) But as the weeks past the romance did slightly slip away.

'I think the crunch came when our priest told us we could not have hymns that might be hummable - hummable hymns are not Covid protocol. And so we will wait a little while longer, which is OK because weve already waited 25 years.'

It came just weeks after the pair announced their engagement.

Miss Hicks was a bridesmaid at the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer. She is pictured second left at the wedding with the Queen and Diana

In a photo of the two of them together, she wrote: 'David and I are getting married.

'Five children and 25 years later! We quietly decided a few months ago. A celebration of unflinching love. Until death do us part.'

She told the Daily Mail: 'After months and months of lockdown, many people were ready to kill each other  we were ready to get married.'

Miss Hicks and her fiance, 60, a former Saatchi & Saatchi executive, moved to the Bahamas in 1996 and have built and restored four houses and a hotel there.

Last year, Lady India Hicks has shared a touching family photograph after revealing she had postponed her wedding to long-term partner David Flint Wood. The image shows her and David's four of her children, Felix, 24, Amory, 22, Conrad, 18 and Domino, 13, and Wesley, 24, sitting on a beach in the Bahamas, which has been the couple's home for two decades

They have five children: Felix, 24, Amory, 22, Conrad, 18, and Domino, 13. The couple also adopted a young Bahamian, Wesley, now 24, after his waitress mother died of cancer.

Miss Hicks has coupled her entrepreneurialism with philanthropy, including working with the Global Empowerment Mission, which provides disaster relief to those afflicted by hurricanes and other crises.

She is also a partner of the food bank on Harbour Island, where the family lives.

Last year she said: 'People often ask us why we have never got married but we have just never felt the need. Being strangers in a strange land has bonded us more than any ceremony could.'

India Hicks previously revealed she's postponed her wedding to long-term partner David Flint Wood - a little over a week after announcing their engagement

In 2018 she said: 'The children all carry his name, which is important to me. Our family unit is so strong but I have no ambition to be married at all.'

Miss Hicks is the daughter of Lady Pamela Mountbatten, who was herself a royal bridesmaid at the Queen's 1947 wedding, and interior designer David Hicks.

She was educated at 40,000-a-year Gordonstoun, near Elgin, Scotland, until she was expelled for inviting boys to her room.

Despite her family and royal connections, Miss Hicks has worked to earn her keep. Originally a model, she became a designer and businesswoman, launching a luxury lifestyle business before closing it last year.

Miss Hicks and her fiance, 60, a former Saatchi & Saatchi executive, moved to the Bahamas in 1996 and have built and restored four houses and a hotel there

She said she enjoyed having more time for her children. Miss Hicks was one of the five bridesmaids at the 1981 wedding of Diana and Charles, who is her godfather and second cousin.

She had been on holiday in the Bahamas aged 13 when the prince phoned and personally asked her to take on the role.

'I had to practise,' Miss Hicks later recalled. 'It was during these rehearsals I got to know Diana, whom I first met at a dress fitting. She always seemed more like a head girl than a princess-in-waiting, with never a shy moment in private.'

Miss Hicks has kept her bridesmaid's wreath from the ceremony at St Paul's in its original box.

Miss Hicks is the daughter of Lady Pamela Mountbatten, who was herself a royal bridesmaid at the Queen's 1947 wedding, and interior designer David Hicks

In November she posted a photograph of her dress  still in perfect condition  on social media. Remarkably it was on a hanger on her stairs alongside another royal bridesmaid dress, that worn by Lady Pamela, 91.

Miss Hicks wrote: 'Lots of questions asking if my mother still has the dress she wore as a bridesmaid to the Queen. She does. See it here. Next to the one I wore to Charles and Diana's wedding.

'Both have travelled the world in exhibitions and been on display in museums before coming home to chill for a bit.'

When aged 11, Miss Hicks had been due to be on her grandfather Earl Mountbatten's boat when it was blown up off Ireland by the IRA in 1979, killing him and three others. She escaped after staying in the family holiday home to watch a film.
Deputy Sherriff Tim Creighton posed with two mock back-to-school signs to show how parents and guardians should blur out the information before posting

Back-to-school season is now marked by photos of smiling children holding up personalized signs celebrating their milestone first days, but police officers are urging parents to think twice before posting them on social media.

The McHenry County Sheriffs Office in Woodstock, Illinois, took to Facebook last month to warn about the dangers of sharing seemingly innocent details on their children's posters and chalkboard signs because they may make them a target.

'This information  school name, classroom, grade, age, etc.  can all be used by predators, scammers, and other people looking to endanger your child, family, or finances,' the department wrote.

Warning: The McHenry County Sheriffs Office in Woodstock, Illinois, took to Facebook to show how parents can safely share their children's trendy back-to-school sign photos online

Their teacher's name and grade, identifying features such as height and weight, and overly personal information that relates to passwords or security questions answers should also be avoided, according to the local police department.

However, that doesn't mean parents can't proudly share their kids' back-to-school photos  they just need to be a bit more strategic about it.

As part of the post, the McHenry County Sheriffs Office included side-by-side photos of Deputy Sherriff Tim Creighton holding up a mock '1st Day of School' sign.

The image on the left features identifying details, including his age, grade, and teacher's name, while the one on the right has almost all of the information blurred out, earning it a green check of approval from the police department.

'No matter your privacy settings or friends list, it's best to keep personal information on the internet to the bare minimum,' they explained.

The post has received hundreds of comments, many of which came from grateful parents thanking the police officers for their warning.

Think twice: The department explained that sharing seemingly innocent details on their children's posters and chalkboard signs may make them a target

Don't do it: Parents should refrain from getting backpacks with their child's name written on the back because they make it easy for predators to address kids directly

'I never even thought about this. I just deleted them. Thank you for the reminder,' one person wrote, while another added: 'Wow I definitely never considered this. Thank you for looking out!'

'It's a shame it has to be like this, but it's vital for some people to know this,' someone else agreed.

Creighton told Fox News that the post was made to protect both children and their parents, who often use their child's name in passwords.

He explained that 'cyber security, internet passwords, fraud, [and] sex trafficking' are just some of the reasons certain details should be omitted.

The outlet also spoke with Donna Rice Hughes, the president & CEO of Enough Is Enough, a non-profit organization that aims to make the internet safer for children and families.

Huges agreed that parents should be cautious, even if their social media accounts are private, explaining that there is nothing stopping friends and family members from publicly sharing their child's personal information.

The internet safety expert also told Fox News that parents and guardians should refrain from getting backpacks with their child's name written on the back, saying these types of personalized items make it easy for predators to address kids directly.

Hughes advised people to ask themselves: 'How would a dangerous predator be able to use this information to gain access to my child or my grandchild?'
New York's new Governor Kathy Hochul sat front row at New York Fashion Week last night, and used the opportunity to announce a partnership between New York State and NYFW aimed at bolstering the fashion industry after the economic upset of the pandemic.

The 36-year-old politician, who last month replaced her old boss Andrew Cuomo in the state's top job, snagged a seat of honor at Prabal Gurungs show in Battery Park  which the state offered up for his use, free of charge.

Speaking to Vogue at the event, Hochul said she appreciates how Gurung creates clothes for women who are powerful but still feminine  something that resonates with her.

'We can dress up and celebrate what makes us unique but also have our proper place in the worlds of power, whether its in politics, whether its in the private sector, non-profits  wherever,' she said. 'Women need to step into the space that is rightfully theirs that has been denied them far too long.'

New York's new Governor Kathy Hochul sat front row at New York Fashion Week last night, wearing a dress by designer Prabal Gurung

She announced a partnership between New York State and NYFW aimed at bolstering the fashion industry after the economic upset of the pandemic

This is Hochul's first New York Fashion Week as governor, a position she ascended to on August 24 after Cuomo's resignation amid sexual harassments allegations

This is Hochul's first New York Fashion Week as governor, a position she ascended to on August 24 after Cuomo's resignation amid sexual harassments allegations.

Hochul embraced the ongoing event by going to one of the week's top shows  and announcing how the state is teaming up with NYFW to help the fashion industry get back on its feet by offering the use of state-owned properties for fashion shows.

New York has over 200,000 fashion industry jobs, which make up six per cent of the state's workforce. But with nonessential business closures and COVID fears in the past year and a half, the $11 billion industry has faced lost revenue, layoffs, and store closures.

'We all know that New York State and New York City were the epicenter of this pandemic, and usually the independently strong and powerful fashion industry doesnt need any help from the state because they just blossomed,' she told Vogue.

'They are world renowned, everyone knows them and just looks to New York City for inspiration in fashion, the newest, most innovative ideas. This is where all the eyes of the world are when it comes to fashion. But the pandemic knocked us back on our heels.'

Gurung held his show at Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park, which was offered up for use by the state for free

The outdoor venue, which has incredible views, is part of the state's effort to help boost the fashion industry

Hochul said this will 'let the rest of the world see' that this is New York's way of saying: 'We are back. Watch out world, we are back.'

But even as the industry suffered, she said, they chipped in to help fill the PPE shortages in hospitals at the beginning of the pandemic.

Gurung was one of those designers, joining the ranks of Louis Vuitton, Christian Siriano, and Brandon Maxwell. He also partnered with The COVID Foundation to donate and deliver 2,000 N95 respirator masks to New York hospitals.

'They were really on the front lines of saving people during the pandemic because hospitals were desperately in need of these products,' said Hochul. 'They could retool instantly and were so passionate about the ways they could give back'

The Governor said it is important to her both as both a leader and a woman to celebrate the fashion industry by helping it rebound and showing it appreciation for how so many helped during the pandemic.

Hochul said she appreciates how Gurung creates clothes for women who are powerful but still feminine  something that resonates with her

'We can dress up and celebrate what makes us unique but also have our proper place in the worlds of power, whether its in politics, whether its in the private sector, non-profits  wherever,' she said.

'Women need to step into the space that is rightfully theirs that has been denied them far too long,' she added

To that end, New York has partnered with NYFW: The Shows to provide the use of Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park downtown and Moynihan Train Hall in midtown for designers to stage their fashion shows for free.

Gurung's show was the first to use one of the locations, while Cynthia Rowley will use it later this week.

Hochul says both spots offer beautiful, iconic New York City backdrops to 'showcase the magnificent talents of New York fashion designers and let the rest of the world see it and let them know that this is our sign, our way of saying: "We are back. Watch out world, we are back."'

'Fashion is part of our identity as New Yorkers,' she said. 'As the Governor of New York, I cant let anything happen to our reputation on my watch! I want to make sure that we continue to allow this fascinating, one-of-a-kind industry to flourish. '
Married at First Sight UK viewers slammed Jordon Mundell and Megan Wolfe as they confessed they kissed at the first dinner party of the series, leaving their new spouses devastated.

Sixteen singletons, with seven females and nine males making up the eight couples, walked down the aisle during the new series of the hit show, which continued tonight at 9pm on E4.

While Jordon, 28, from Cardiff, was paired with model Alexis by the experts, Megan, 26, married fun-loving Bob, but neither felt the spark with their partners.

During tonight's explosive episode, the couple admitted they had actually shared a kiss at an event they attended with their spouses, leaving Bob and Alexis devastated.

Many of the viewers were left horrified by the revelation, and criticised Jordon and Megan for their behaviour online.

Married at First Sight UK viewers slammed Jordon Mundell and Megan Wolfe as they confessed they kissed at the first dinner party of the series, leaving their new spouses devastated (pictured left, Jordon and his wife Alexis)

One person commented: 'Jordon is so gross to me, every time he comes on my screen I can just smell the misogyny and I just wanna...'

Another wrote: 'Vulgar attracts vulgar. Megan and Jordon can get in the bin. Watch Megan blame all this on Bob too...She's horrid.'

Tonight, the married couples took part in the first commitment ceremony where they are expected to reveal all and decide whether to stay or leave the experiment.

Bob confessed he was struggling with his relationship with Megan, and was left in tears once again.

While Jordon, 28, from Cardiff, was paired with model Alexis by the experts, Megan, 26, married fun-loving Bob, but neither felt the spark with their partners (pictured right, Megan with her husband Bob)

He said he wanted to dedicate all of his energy into making the marriage work, adding: 'The conversation with Meghan was hard...it's hard enough as it is without me throwing in the bullshit.'

Meanwhile Jordon and Alexis said they felt 'over the drama' as they prepared for the evening event.

Alexis said: 'Me and Jordon are in a good place. I've seen a change in him over the last few days.'

However little did Alexis know that Jordon was keeping an explosive secret from her.

Many of the viewers were left horrified by the revelation, and criticised Jordon and Megan for their behaviour online

He confessed he had already cheated on his partner with another man's wife, saying: 'Last night at the dinner party, we found ourselves alone at one point and we shared a kiss.

'It's a real tense situation to be in. It's thrown a spanner in the works and my head is all over the place.'

He added: 'I came here to meet someone, if I step on a few toes then so be it. The test now is to speak to her and see where her head is at.'

Jordon approached Megan about chatting the situation over, with both revealing they 'didn't regret' the kiss.

Megan told him: 'It was definitely a good kiss wasn't it?'

At the same time, both Megan's husband Bob and Jordon's wife Alexis said they hoped to continue trying to make their marriages work.

Jordon approached Megan about chatting the situation over, with both revealing they 'didn't regret' the kiss

However as the commitment ceremony approached, Jordon revealed to Luke he had removed his ring, saying the marriage was 'terrible.'

He said: 'Something else is on my mind at the moment so that's why I'm thinking about what to do. It's crazy how it's happened.

'I had enough and I was ready to leave but now [I'm ready to pursue this] with Megan.'

Megan told the camera: 'Last night has detonated that and now it feels like there is chaos everywhere. I don't know where my head is at or how I move forward now.

'It was Alexis who first said, you too are really similar. It's weird because it doesn't feel like I've cheated on someone. But I know for a lot of people that is exactly what this is.'

As Megan and Bob were invited to sit together on the sofa, she confessed she was 'nervous' about the commitment ceremony.

Megan said: 'The more I spoke to him, the more I felt like I couldn't sense who he was.'

As Megan and Bob were invited to sit together on the sofa, she confessed she was 'nervous' about the commitment ceremony and her words left him in tears

Bob was left in tears on the sofa as he revealed he often hid behind a persona to cover up his insecurities.

After being asked about the dinner party, she said: 'This is hard. I'm not someone who puts time into something that's not for me.'

Megan said: 'I'm getting to a point where I feel this is really difficult and potentially wasting both of our times.'

Her words left Bob in floods of tears but ultimately, both decided to stay in the experiment longer.

Finally, Alexis and Jordon arrived on the sofa, with the bride saying: 'I don't give up, it's not in my nature to.'

Jordon told the experts: 'We've been through a long journey and it hasn't been a great one.'

Bob was unable to contain the emotion after Megan said she felt the marriage was a 'waste of time'

He said: 'Day one of honeymoon is where it went wrong. My normal type is blonde. If someone asks for something, I will be honest. That created tension straight away.'

His words left Alexis in floods of tears, and she confessed: 'I've worked so hard to be confident in who I am and what I look like.

'It was constant digs. He digged out my career, what I looked like...he had no time for me at all.'

Jordon said he had thought she was 'going to hit him' during one argument.

Alexis was shocked, saying: 'Don't you dare say you didn't know if I was going to hit you. You can't even look at me in my face because you know you're lying.'

Alexis accused her new husband Jordon of being a 'liar' on the programme before he confessed to kissing Megan

She walked off the stage, calling Jordon 'a liar', adding: 'I'm not dealing with that.'

Jordon said: 'I'm not perfect but I don't deserve this level of aggression.'

Conversation moved to the dinner party, with Alexis saying the event had been 'bittersweet' for her.

After the discussion, Alexis said she wanted to leave the experiment - however Jordon made a confession.

He said: 'Last night after the party I found myself having a conversation with Megan. We're very similar in a lot of ways and we shared a kiss.

The group were left shocked by the confession of adultery, with Bob immediately bursting into tears and branding Jordon and Megan 'vile'

'She said the relationship between her and Bob wasn't working. She said she has been trying and Bob hasn't been doing anything back.'

After initially saying he wanted to stay to pursue a relationship with Megan, he said he no longer wanted to pursue things with Megan because of the way she had treated Bob.

The group were left shocked, with Bob immediately bursting into tears and branding the pair 'vile.'

He told Megan to 'crack on', saying: 'I'm really feeling emotionally, an absolute mug. I can't stand them now.

'Jordon I don't know what to say, thanks for telling me. You're disgusting.'

Alexis said: 'To do something while I was still in a committed marriage...it's disgusting. More fool on you Megan. No girl code at all.'

Bob told Jordon: 'I just want to say one thing. Thankyou for telling me, if you were planning to stay and do that to me, then you are scum.

'But you've told me so one part of you is a good guy.'

Megan said she wanted to apologise to Bob, saying: 'I'm sorry with all my heart. Alexis, I apologise to you but I did feel like we had the conversation before actions were made.

'We all came here looking for love. And for a moment, I believed there was a connection with Jordon. I made a mistake. And I'm sorry you were collateral damage in that Bob.'

While Jordon and Alexis decided to leave the process, Megan chose to stay with Bob.

Bob described the affair as 'a stab in the heart', adding: 'There will never be a friendship between me and Jordon. I don't like snakes in my life, and that's what he is.'
Surely it was the moment Johnnie Boden, who put a generation of mums in striped Breton tops and Capri pants, must have punched the air.

After years of wearing his eponymous brand for casual occasions, the Duchess of Cambridge gave Boden the stamp of approval by wearing it for her family's 2019 Christmas card.

There she was, posing with her husband and three children, in a 60 Aurora Midi Wrap Dress. It sold out online almost immediately.

I admit I have been critical of the Duchess's Boden look in the past. I once called Kate 'a catalogue queen'. Ouch!

After years of wearing Johnnie Boden's brand for casual occasions, the Duchess of Cambridge gave Boden the stamp of approval by wearing it for her family's 2019 Christmas card

Yet Boden has continued to go from strength to strength, and is celebrating its 30th birthday  no mean feat in these days of failing brands, empty High Street stores and fast-fashion hawkers online.

The reason for Boden's success is that it was never meant for people like me, a fusspot fashionista with more money than sense. It's not meant to be worn in limos, with heels you can't walk in.

It's meant for women like Catherine; women with busy lives, lots of bending down to tie laces, small legs wrapped around waist.

It's meant for women  and men, of course, like David Cameron and Boris Johnson  who don't obsess over what to wear off-duty, they just want to look crisp but relaxed, ready-to-hop-on-a-boat fresh.

Founded in Johnnie Boden's kitchen in 1991, amid scepticism that an Old Etonian former City banker could ever succeed in the world of fashion, just eight menswear items were initially made.

But soon he took on womenswear and childrenswear  and mums across Britain are thankful he did.

Boden has continued to go from strength to strength, and is celebrating its 30th birthday  no mean feat in these days of failing brands

2010s: The hiring of sultry supermodel Helena Christensen scared Boden woman, whose role model is more Mary Berry (Boden is wholesome, not sexy). The sheer floral blouses were pretty, if impractical

It's not just yummy mummies who have fallen prey to Boden. Millie Mackintosh (left in a Mariam dress, 240) and Lorraine Kelly (right in a cotton cardigan, 65) both wear it

Boden was a less twee and overtly Sloaney Laura Ashley. Even if you live in Luton, you can still dress as though you own fishing rights.

And the fabulously funky Mini Boden was the final nail in the coffin of Baby Gap; I'd go through childbirth just to buy the ultra-cute rainbow-waisted marl shorts.

Boden wows in the U.S. too, where a third of sales are made.

Johnnie also cleverly predicted our current mania for casual. And, boy, did that pay off in lockdown.

Currently valued at 300 million, why has it survived  thrived!  as sales of other labels such as Gap, J. Crew, Banana Republic and M&S have plummeted?

Well, for one, the quality has never been compromised: everything keeps its colour no matter how many times you wash it, and doesn't bobble or shrink.

Two, it hasn't fallen into the expensive vanity project so beloved of High-Street brands: the designer collab.

Most importantly, and unlike M&S, Boden knows its customer: she doesn't want the twiddly bits found in Per Una, but is no frump.

The brand has also never become naff; teens are unashamed to wear it. Boden is for teens too, and the reason they like it  the striped cashmere, the long shorts  is it's fairly anonymous.

They wear it oversized, so it screams festival chic. New trends are added each year  the print tea dress and print Capri pant, for example  but aren't catwalk-driven.

What we want is great khaki, knits, denim that doesn't shout: 'I'm a fashion victim!' The Boden customer would rather spend money on good wine. Or property.

Johnnie Boden, now 60, also predicted very early the demise of the High Street; yummy mummies are too busy to park and browse, they hate trying things on with a pram and enduring the sweating frenzy that can be the fitting room.

2020s: The 30th birthday collection is just glorious. It's all about a tea dress worn with wellies, never going back to the office and enjoying the great outdoors. The new Boden mum shares clothes with her leggy teen daughter and isn't stuck inside cooking

However, although the majority of Boden's trade is now online, the catalogue remains perennially popular with 56 million sent out each year, 13 million in the UK

Boden also has celebrity fans from Amanda Holden (left in a Chiltern coat, 190) to Holly Willoughby (right in a 98 Lorna skirt)

Hence, it began as a catalogue, and was ahead of the curve by selling online in 1999, with a user-friendly and aspirational website.

However, although the majority of Boden's trade is now online, the catalogue remains perennially popular with 56 million sent out each year, 13 million in the UK.

Johnnie says: 'I would love it if the catalogue were to go because it's bloody expensive, but people still bloody love it.'

There are just two bricks and mortar stores (Park Royal just off the M40 in West London and the flagship King's Road store).

ALL THANKS TO JOHNNIE'S GO The brand owes its name to founder Johnnie Boden. Known for his attention to detail, he even labels teapots according to how many cups they hold. So it's no wonder the Boden family, which owns 65 per cent of the business, boasts a 335 million fortune. Boden was founded in Old Etonian former City banker Johnnie Boden's kitchen in 1991 Johnnie, a father of three, began Boden after a failed career in finance. His break came unexpectedly when an inheritance enabled him to quit his job. Fashion might appear a curious career path for a former member of Oxford University's Bullingdon Club. But Johnnie had covered his walls at Eton with images from Vogue and became men's fashion editor of a teenage edition of Harpers & Queen aged 17. First was the menswear collection in 1991. Womenswear came a year later when he realised the margins were better. Mini Boden was born in 1996. Boden now has 1.9 million customers. Johnnie is creative director, leaving the management of the 1,200-strong workforce to his executive chairman and chief operating officer, while he 'jollies everybody along'. Advertisement

And John Lewis sells a limited range.

It hasn't all been plain sailing, though. Its tendency to play it safe once gave Boden a reputation for being frumpy and unfashionable.

In 2012, profits dropped after even devotees  its core market is 35 to 50-year-old middle-class women  criticised it on parenting website Mumsnet for being 'smug', 'overpriced' and 'twee'.

There have also been design fails. Johnnie once admitted a peplum top had been an 'absolute disaster'. 'Not flattering,' he said. 'They make your hips look big.'

But then came a resurgence; slicker advertising, limited-run collections and a keener eye for trends.

They brought in more striking styles, dialled back on garish prints and even stepped up to supermodels  although there was a backlash when Helena Christensen headed its 2012 ad campaign. Customers thought her 'too sexy'.

The brand is celebrating its birthday with a capsule collection.

The Best Of Boden has updates of its greatest hits: the Kathryn jumper with a bigger collar. Cord jeans cut wider and slightly more relaxed.

The Hollie jacket (150) is made  you guessed it  with recycled polyester.

There are new designs, too: I love the Mariam print dress, 240 (each item is named after a long-standing member of staff. Many stay for years).

The collection ranges from 55 for a crew-neck top, to nearly 300 for a lovely, almost 1970s velvet coat. And Breton stripes do feature.

The new face of Boden is a great choice, too: Jean Campbell, an earl's daughter who first modelled for the brand aged four.

The campaign manages to evoke Scottish castles and shooting parties, without any actual bloodshed.

Prices have risen over three decades, of course.

Johnnie knows his customers are not likely to be the kind of people who would trample a child to land a 9 cashmere sweater in Primark (Boden cashmere is well over 100. Rightly so).

Boden devotees don't want to feel they are squeezing the lifeblood from garment workers as, above all, if you wear it, you must be nice.

Otherwise, what's stopping you from abusing its practically unique 365-day return policy?

Above all, Boden is a great British success story, a fashion brand where fashion is never allowed to become faddish or get in the way of a bracingly good walk.

It even has a For Doing Outside Stuff section. Even I am slightly swayed by the navy, mustard and tangerine waterproof mac at 150. All I need now is a great big yacht.
A man who lost his wife and two young children in a tragic house fire has become a local hero after saving a woman from a similar blaze 20 years later.

Mark Collum, 56, from Rowley, Massachusetts, was in his home early Sunday morning when he heard his neighbor Deb Shanahan screaming for help around 5:00 a.m. and called 911.

The commercial fisherman told ABC affiliate WCVB that he threw on clothes and ran out the door after she yelled, 'Fire! Fire!'

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Local hero: Mark Collum, 56, from Rowley, Massachusetts, saved his neighbor Deb Shanahan from a fire in her home early Sunday morning

Blaze: The commercial fisherman found Shanahan in the kitchen after he heard her screaming for help around 5:00 a.m. and grabbed her

Safe: Rowley Fire Department officials said Shanahan will recover from her injuries, which are not believed to be serious. The cause of the fire is under investigation

'There were flames billowing out the back, smoke filling up the kitchen,' he said. 'I just grabbed her and just took her out.'

Rowley Fire Department officials told the news station that Shanahan will recover from her injuries, which are not believed to be serious.

'I had a little smoke in my lungs, same with her, so we just kind of took her outside and things worked out well,' Collum said. 'Thank God.'

In January 2001, tragedy struck his family when his wife Lisa and their daughters  Lindsay, four, and Carly, five months  died after a fire broke out in their home in Ipswich.

Heartbreaking: In January 2001, Collum's wife Lisa and their daughters, Lindsay, four, and Carly, five months, died after a fire broke out in their home in Ipswich

Grateful: Collum, who was not home at the time of the fire that took his family (pictured), said he is 'glad things worked out today'

Flames trapped Lisa and Lindsay on the third floor, but the mom managed to drop Carly out of a window in an attempt to save her life, WCVB reported.

The infant was pronounced dead after being flown to New England Medical Center.

Collum was not home at the time of the fire, but the other people in the house, including relatives, were able to escape the blaze without serious injury.

'It still resonates in me. But I'm glad things worked out today,' he said.

'I'm just glad I was here and did the right thing. That's all. Hopefully, Deb's alright and everything worked out well today, so I'm kind of glad.'

The cause of the fire at Shanahan's home remains under investigation, according to the news station.
Employees working from home full-time become more isolated from their co-workers and have less communication and collaboration, a new study suggests.

Researchers from the University of California - Berkeley Haas School of Business looked at tens of thousands of Microsoft staff members who went from working in headquarters in Redmond, Washington, to being fully remote.

They found that the employees spent less time collaborating, had fewer real-time conversations and decreased the number of hours spent in meetings.

The team says that the findings suggest having all employees work from home full-time makes it harder to share new information, which could lead to loss of productivity.

A new study looked at 61,000 Microsoft employees who were sent home to work remotely full-time due to the COVID-19 pandemic (file image)

Remote workers spent 25% less time collaborating with colleagues across all networks in comparison with the time spent pre-pandemic (above)

'Measuring the causal effects of remote work has historically been difficult, because only certain types of workers were allowed to work away from the office,' said co-author Dr David Holtz, a faculty affiliate at the Berkeley Institute for Data Science, in a statement.

'That changed during the pandemic, when almost everyone who could work from home was required to do so.

'The work-from-home mandate created a unique opportunity to identify the effects of company-wide remote work on how information workers communicate and collaborate.'

When the COVID-19 pandemic first struck the U.S. in March 2020, hundreds of thousands of companies sent their employees home to work remotely full-time.

Many employers have been delaying returning workers to the office five days a week due to the spread of the Delta variant.

In fact, Microsoft announced on Thursday that it is indefinitely postponed the return to its offices in the U.S.

Working from home does come with many perks such as cutting down on food and travel expenses, spending less time commuting and having more schedule flexibility.

However, large-scale remote work does have an effect on workers' well-beings.

One study found that 67 percent of people working from home acknowledged feeling loneliness, which can lead to depression, difficulty falling asleep, anxiety and even suicidal tendencies.

In addition, the 2020 State of Remote Work report found that remote employees struggled with loneliness linked to problems with collaboration and communication.

The new study, published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour, shows just how much communication and collaboration suffer when everyone works remotely.

The team looked at anonymized data of more than 61,000 Microsoft employees before and after a company-wide work-from-home mandate was implemented due to COVID-19.

Fewer real-time in-person conversations were had and more time was spent communicating via email and instant messages

Researchers looked at the number of hours spent in meetings, of emails and instant messages sent, of phone calls made and of working hours prior to and during the pandemic.

They found that remote workers spend 25 percent less time collaborating with colleagues across all networks, not just the inner network, in comparison with the time spent pre-pandemic.

Additionally, employees spent more time communicating via email and instant messaging and less time in-person or by video chat.

Lastly, working at home full time led to the number of hours spent in meetings to decrease by about five percent.

Holtz, who conducted the study as an MIT Sloan doctoral intern at Microsoft, said the findings also indicate that a person's collaboration can be affected not just by he or she working remotely but by colleagues working remotely as well.

'The fact that your colleagues' remote work status affects your own work habits has major implications for companies that are considering hybrid or mixed-mode work policies,' he said.

'It's important to be thoughtful about how these policies are implemented.'
President Joe Biden is set to call on all U.S. K-12 schools to set up weekly COVID-19 testing for students, teachers and staff.

It will be one of Biden's key strategies for combating the Delta variant surge, which will be announced during his speech on Thursday afternoon, according to an NBC report.

The push for testing comes as record numbers of children fall ill with the virus, posing an immense challenge for the schools now reopening for their fall 2021 semester.

However, most pediatric cases are not severe and Covid-related fatalities among children are rare, with pediatric deaths making up just 0.1 percent of all COVID-19 deaths in the U.S.

Many schools are not currently utilizing Covid testing, despite Congress dedicating $10 billion towards this safety strategy in April.

Experts say regular testing can help schools identify cases before they turn into outbreaks and that schools that utilized testing last year were able to keep case numbers down.

The Biden administration is calling for all K-12 schools to utilize Covid testing in schools. Pictured: A health worker collects a swab sample from a young patient at a center in Tel Aviv, Israel, August 2021

The program will be one of Biden's six key strategies for combatting the current Covid surge and will be announced at his speech on Thursday afternoon. Pictured: Biden delivers remarks in honor of labor unions in the East Room at the White House, Wednesday

Biden is set to make a big announcement Thursday afternoon, revealing a six-point plan to address the ongoing pandemic surge.

One of the points in his plan will be school testing.

'The administration is calling on all schools to set up regular testing in their schools for students, teachers, and staff consistent with CDC guidance,' an official told NBC.

The announcement comes as more children are getting infected with the coronavirus across the country.

More than 250,000 cases in children have been reported in the past week alone, which is the highest total since the pandemic began and 25 percent higher than the previous week.

However, low numbers of children who catch Covid are hospitalized or die - with pediatric deaths comprising only 0.1 percent of all Covid deaths in the country.

In many schools, one infected child triggers quarantines for an entire classroom, and high case numbers can lead to kids missing out on valuable in-person learning for weeks on end.

Public health experts say Covid testing is a crucial strategy for keeping case numbers down in schools - in fact, it worked in many schools during the previous school year.

In these schools, a specified percentage of students, teachers and staff were randomly selected for Covid testing at a designated interval such as once per week.

Through this regular testing, school leaders can identify cases in people who may be asymptomatic and not showing any symptoms.

Schools may use highly-accurate PCR tests, less-accurate but rapid antigen tests, or other methods.

In Delaware, for example, antigen tests were available to all school districts in spring 2021.

The districts that utilized these tests for regular screenings said that they were able to catch asymptomatic cases and isolate those students before they infected others.

Other schools, such as those in Baltimore, Maryland, have utilized pooled testing - a method in which swab samples from an entire classroom are combined and PCR-tested together.

Districts that used regular testing last year said the strategy helped them catch asymptomatic cases. Pictured: Two students get tested during a Covid testing day at Brandeis Elementary School in Louisville, Kentucky, August 2021

If the entire classroom is negative, school administrators will get that result in under 24 hours and class may continue as normal.

If the pooled test shows a positive result, the class can quarantine while protecting the privacy of the individual who got infected.

Frequent Covid testing has also been a common strategy at colleges and universities to help campuses stay open.

For instance, the University of Illinois developed a proprietary saliva test - to come on campus, students needed to get tested two or three times a week.

This test identified asymptomatic students and campus hotspots, allowing administrators to quickly get outbreaks under control.

Seeing early successes from some schools, Congress devoted $10 billion to K-12 school testing as part of the American Rescue Plan, passed in April 2021.

Despite this influx of funding, however, most schools aren't doing regular testing - or are testing at a limited capacity, not following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC recommends that schools test 'a random sample of at least 10 percent of students who are not fully vaccinated' once a week.

Unvaccinated staff and older students may be tested more frequently, the CDC says.

In many schools, however, tests are only available to staff or only to students who have already demonstrated Covid symptoms.

Children tend to have milder cases or show no symptoms at all - so testing only those with symptoms tends to miss cases.

New York City was a testing success story last school year. The city required all buildings open for in-person instruction to test 20 percent of students and staff once a week.

NYC's public schools consistently had a lower test positivity rate than the city overall, indicating that the testing protocol helped avoid outbreaks.

This fall, however, the city is slated to test only 10 percent of unvaccinated students at a lower frequency - once every two weeks - and allows students to opt out of the program.

The new plan has drawn criticism from parents who say the city 'should be increasing testing, not reducing it.'
As the U.S. sees upwards of 160,000 new COVID-19 cases per day, the nation's top infectious disease expert says the country is far from in control of the pandemic.

'The endgame is to suppress the virus,' Dr Anthony Fauci told Axios in an interview on Thursday.

But with the current high case level, 'we're still in pandemic mode,' he said.

Pandemic hotspots such as South Carolina, West Virginia, and Idaho exemplify the country's current lack of control over the coronavirus.

In order to achieve control over the virus - which means recording under 10,000 new cases a day, according to Fauci - the U.S. needs to vaccinate more people.

President Joe Biden's administration is pushing for this with a new Covid plan, which was announced on Thursday.

Dr Anthony Fauci warns that the pandemic may not be over for a long time, as case counts are about 16 times too high. Pictured: Fauci participates in a network interview at the White House in Washington, D.C., August 2021

At over 150,000 new cases a day, the country is far from controlling the pandemic

Earlier in summer 2021 - as millions of Americans got vaccinated each day and cases dropped to their lowest levels yet - many hoped that the pandemic could finally end in the U.S.

But as the Delta variant now tears through the country and sends thousands of patients to hospitals, it's clear that the pandemic's end is, in fact, a long way out.

Fauci made that clear in an interview with Axios on Thursday.

'The endgame is to suppress the virus. Right now, we're still in pandemic mode, because we have 160,000 new infections a day,' he said.

According to data from Johns Hopkins, the country is currently seeing between 150,000 and 160,000 new cases per day - though the Labor Day weekend may have delayed some recent cases from being reported.

Fauci called these numbers 'not even modestly good control,' explaining that the coronavirus is still 'a public health threat.'

'In a country of our size, you can't be hanging around and having 100,000 infections a day,' Fauci said.

'You've got to get well below 10,000 before you start feeling comfortable.'

In other words, the country's Covid case numbers are currently about 16 times too high.

The U.S. briefly saw daily case numbers between 10,000 and 15,000 in late June, but numbers shot up through July and August as the highly contagious Delta variant spread through the country.

Now, Delta is causing over 99 percent of new Covid cases in the nation.

While the virus primarily spreads among unvaccinated people, vaccinated people may still be able to contract the virus and spread it to others.

South Carolina is seeing record Covid patients in hospitals - 2,400 as of September 9

West Virginia is approaching its winter hospitalization record of more than 800 as Delta spreads 'explosively'

The vaccines continue to be incredibly effective in protecting against severe disease and death, though - with 99 percent of Covid hospitalizations and deaths in 2021 occurring among the unvaccinated.

As a result, states and counties with lower vaccination rates have been hardest hit in the new surge.

New Delta hotspots have taken the stage from Missouri, Arkansas, Florida, and other states that made headlines last month.

For example, South Carolina now has the highest cases per capita - the state saw 725 new cases for every 100,000 residents in the week ending September 7, according to federal data.

The state is seeing its highest hospitalization numbers yet: 2,400 Covid patients are currently filling South Carolina hospitals.

About 44 percent of state residents are fully vaccinated.

West Virginia - with under 40 percent of residents fully vaccinated - is in a similar position.

The state currently has about 740 Covid patients in hospitals, approaching its winter record of 834.

'The Delta variant has entered that explosive growth phase,' Dr Clay Marsh, West Virginia's coronavirus response adviser, told West Virginia Metro News on Wednesday - warning that vaccinations alone could not stop the surge.

Idaho instituted 'crisis standards of care' this week as hospitals in the north part of the state have become overwhelmed with Covid patients

Idaho isn't seeing case counts as high as those in other states, but it is facing record hospitalizations - with over 500 Covid patients now in hospitals.

On Tuesday, the state's public health agency instituted 'crisis standards of care' for the first time in state history.

These crisis standards allow certain hospitals to ration healthcare, preserving the state's now very limited staff and supplies.

Like West Virginia, Idaho has fully vaccinated under 40 percent of its population.

The primary way out of this current surge is more vaccinations, Fauci told Axios.

When enough Americans have been vaccinated to truly drive down case numbers, he said, 'you'll still get some people getting infected, but you're not going to have it as a public health threat.'

The Biden administration's new 'Path out of the Pandemic' plan aims to drive up vaccination numbers with new vaccination requirements - including for federal workers, contractors that work for the federal government, and large businesses.

This plan also includes easier access to testing and healthcare improvements for Covid patients in hospitals.
President Joe Biden has pledged there will be enough COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for every American.

During a press briefing on Thursday, the commander-in-chief said the federal government has bought enough third doses to give one to every vaccinated resident.

The extra doses will be free and will be able to be received at 80,000 locations including pharmacies and doctors' offices.

However, he said the decision about boosters - including when to authorize and who should receive them - will be left up to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

'We bought enough boosters, enough boosters shots, and the distribution system is ready to administer them,' Biden said.

'My first responsibility as President is to protect the American people and make sure we have enough vaccine for every American - including enough boosters for every American - who is approved to get one.'

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President Joe Biden pledged on Thursday (above) that the federal government has bought enough COVID-19 vaccine booster shots for every American

Biden insisted that decisions on when to approve vaccines and who should receive them will be left up to the FDA and the CDC. Pictured: Nurse Kevin Grellman administers a third booster dose of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to Jose Gomez, 80, in Pasadena, California, August 2021

In his speech, Biden noted that breakthrough cases, in which a fully vaccinated person contracts the virus, do occur.

But he stressed that they are with only one confirmed positive case per 5,000 fully vaccinated Americans per week.

'You're as safe as possible and we're doing everything we can to keep it that way, keep you safe. That's where boosters come in,' Biden said.

The vaccines are especially effective at protecting against severe disease.

More than 99 percent of U.S. Covid hospitalizations and deaths in 2021 have occurred in unvaccinated Americans.

Booster shots will strengthen protection against the coronavirus, Biden said.

'Three-shot vaccines are common (Hepatitis B, Tetanus) and offer some of the most durable and robust protection,' the administration explains in a description of the booster shot on the White House website.

Last month, the Biden administration announced initial plans for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots eight months after receiving the final dose.

During a media briefing, officials said adults over age 18 who received the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines could get a third dose starting the week of September 20.

At the time, there were no plans in place for those who received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Currently, boosters shots are only approved for immunocompromised Americans aged 12 and older.

However, after this announcement, health officials at the FDA and the CDC voiced the frustration with the administration.

They noted that Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna had only just submitted clinical trial data to the FDA and that neither had demonstrated that boosters were needed after eight months.

What's more, they felt that September 20 was too soon of a deadline to approve boosters for anyone but those with weakened immune systems.

During the press briefing, Biden stressed that all decisions surrounding COVID-19 vaccine boosters will be left up the FDA and CDC.

'Of course, the decision of which booster shots to give and when to start them and who will give them will be left completely up the scientists tat the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control,' he said.

A statement on the White House website says the administration is still ready to start administering boosters on September 20 should they receive federal approval.

The Biden administration has also faced criticism from the international public health community for planning to supply boosters to all Americans when many vulnerable people in other countries have not yet had one shot.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization said on Wednesday he was 'appalled' by booster shot plans.

'Because manufacturers have prioritized or been legally obliged to fulfill bilateral deals with rich countries willing to pay top dollar, low income countries have been deprived of the tools to protect their people,' he said at a news conference.

Biden maintains that the U.S. can provide booster shots to Americans while also supplying doses to the rest of the world.

In his speech, he reminded Americans that the U.S. has supplied more doses internationally than any other country thus far.
Scammers ramped up their efforts during the pandemic to prey on vulnerable savers, latest figures from UK Finance revealed.

Staff at banks, building societies and post offices across the UK working with police managed to stop 32 million of fraud during the first half of this year  a 65 per cent rise on the first six months of 2020.

Using the Banking Protocol, a rapid scam response scheme, staff were able to alert police to 4,782 suspected scams between January and June 2021 saving potential victims an average of 6,672 each time.

Over 4,700 emergency calls were made between January and June 2021, protecting customers from losing an average of 6,672 each to criminals.

Savers are being urged to remain on their guard with the ending of Government lockdown support only likely to increase financial vulnerability in the immediate future.

Clinton Blackburn, temporary commander from the City of London Police said: 'Criminals have continued to use the pandemic to prey on people's fear and anxieties in order to steal their money, which is evident through the increase in how much the Banking Protocol has prevented being lost to heartless fraudsters so far this year.

'The Banking Protocol continues to be one of the most vital ways of protecting vulnerable victims and preventing criminals from taking advantage of them, as banks are often the first point of contact when someone is about to fall victim to fraud.

'It's also essential the public remain vigilant and follow the Take Five advice before parting with any money or personal details.'

The Banking Protocol is a UK-wide scheme, launched by UK Finance, National Trading Standards and local police forces.

Branch staff are trained to spot the warning signs that suggest a customer may be falling victim to a scam, before alerting their local police force to intervene and investigate.

To date, the scheme has helped to prevent 174 million of fraud since it was introduced in 2016.

Between January and June this year, the scheme led to the arrest of over 90 suspected criminals, bringing the total number of arrests to 934 since 2016.

The most common frauds include impersonation scams, in which criminals imitate police or bank staff and convince people to visit their bank and withdraw or transfer large sums of money.

The scheme is also often used to prevent romance fraud, in which fraudsters use fake online dating profiles to trick victims into transferring money, and to catch rogue traders who demand cash for unnecessary work on properties.

Tom Selby, head of retirement policy at AJ Bell said: 'The fact 32 million of financial fraud has been prevented by lenders and the Police is clearly good news, suggesting improved training for branch staff is helping protect savers from the scourge of scams.

'But the reality is there will always be sophisticated fraudsters out there attempting to steal your money, so it is crucial savers do all they can to protect themselves.

'That means knowing the tell-tale signs of a scam, being extremely wary of too-good-to-be-true offers, doing your due diligence before handing over your money and reporting anything suspicious to the relevant authorities.'
What awaits Morrisons and its broader group of stakeholders when it falls into private equity hands is a matter of conjecture.

Shareholders and chief executive David Potts may be looking forward to filling their boots, amid competing bids, but there can be little room for optimism for the group's 110,000 colleagues, the supply chain and for those who value financial stability.

The tragedy is that in spite of lacklustre first-half results, the white-flag brigade in the Morrisons board, who surrendered without a real fight, have been doing a good job with Britain's fourth largest grocer.

Turning a corner: Guff about honouring the legacy of the late Ken Morrison will be as nothing unless undertakings are extended beyond 12 months

It has adapted to the online challenge with 'Morrisons on Amazon' which covers 60 towns and cities. As a user, I can testify to efficiency and quality of service.

It also has a strong relationship with Deliveroo and is increasing its convenience store access with McColl's.

Same store sales slipped in the six months to August 1 but over the last two years there has been an 8.4 per cent uplift. It is frustrating that the stock market has never properly valued Morrisons' property assets and importance in the 'levelling up' North. As a consequence, its fate will be decided by a Takeover Panel auction to be settled between the Terry Leahy-headed consortium of CD&R and the less alluring bid by Fortress, backed by unreliable Softbank.

The 7billion or so competing bids for Morrisons may put some 20m into Potts' pocket and enrich advisors, but does very little for anyone else. To achieve the returns that private equity investors demand, there is going to be heavy cost-cutting and asset sales after loosely made bid promises unwind after 12 months.

It may be fine for Morrisons, with 3billion of debt on its balance sheet, to be loaded up with more borrowing right now. But what happens when the happy-go-lucky years of free and easy money come to an end? Guff about honouring the legacy of the late Ken Morrison will be as nothing unless undertakings are extended beyond 12 months.

As chairman, Andy Higginson could rescue his reputation and really ensure the future by demanding that pledges, such as retaining all freehold properties and production centres, are legally binding.

This would give the Takeover Panel the right to take the buyers to court if stipulations were breached. That might lead the buyers to retreat in horror.

But it would be for the greater benefit of UK food security, consumers and the broader public interest.

Flight path

At least the proposed buyer-merger partner for Easyjet comes from the aviation sector. Many of the world's biggest carriers have been built on mergers although not all have been roaring successes.

Johan Lundgren, having had to put up with the slings and arrows of founder Stelios Haji-Ioannou, clearly feels confident he can see off Hungarian carrier Wizz. The London-quoted airline, with its network of Eastern European routes, has emerged stronger from Covid than Easyjet.

It has focused on moving passengers from temperate northern climes to the Mediterranean and recovery has been hindered by confusing traffic light systems. The response of Lundgren to a sluggish return to the skies is to seek new capital of 1.2billion to ensure it has the financial firepower to come back stronger. Lundgren wants to use the war chest to buy up slots abandoned by other carriers in the pandemic. As Covid fades, Easyjet ought to have the slots, the reputation for better service than most no-frills carriers, and the fleet to bounce back.

Desire for cheap European travel looks unrequited as Ryanair's response has demonstrated. BA's talk of a return to Gatwick with stripped-down service suggests the sector is not down and out.

Wizz may have been sent packing, but if Easyjet doesn't get better soon, it could attract other suitors.

They will still have Stelios to deal with.

Life saver

Next science triumph for the UK down the float slipway is Oxford Nanopore with its technology which sequences DNA. It demonstrated its worth in the pandemic when its platform was used around the world to identify Covid variations.
Easyjet has rejected a takeover bid from rival Wizz Air and is instead seeking another 1.2billion from investors to survive the Covid-19 pandemic.

The budget airline's board said it 'had no hesitation' in unanimously rebuffing the offer, which it said was far too low.

It refused to name the suitor  but it is widely understood to be Hungarian no-frills carrier Wizz.

Failed swoop: Easyjet chief executive Johan Lundgren (left) and Wizz Air founder Jozsef Varadi

Easyjet also said the bidder has now walked away and would not be making another offer.

The failed swoop makes Easyjet the latest in a long line of London-listed companies to become takeover targets this year.

Defence firms Ultra Electronics and Meggitt, inhaler maker Vectura and supermarket giant Morrisons are among the many that have been preyed upon in a sustained raid on UK plc.

Easyjet said it would not rule out any deals in the future.

But Easyjet shares plunged 10.2 per cent, or 80.8p, to 708.2p after it revealed it was going cap in hand to investors for 1.2billion of emergency funds. It has already raised more than 5.5billion since the start of the Covid crisis including 420m from shareholders.

The no-frills carrier has also sold planes, furloughed staff and laid off up to 4,500 employees, or about 30 per cent of its workforce.

Michael Hewson, chief market analyst at CMC Markets UK, said: 'In true Oliver Twist fashion, having already raised 5.5billion since the start of the pandemic, the raising of another 1.2billion should give it a much better cash buffer.

'The outlook for airlines continues to be challenging with any sort of back to normal unlikely to come much before the second quarter of next year, which suggests Easyjet may not be the last airline to look at raising extra capital,' he said.

Airlines have been pummelled by the coronavirus pandemic, which has brought international travel to a halt for months at a time during lockdowns.

Easyjet reported its first ever annual loss last year  of 1.3billion  and has lost another 1billion in the first nine months of this financial year. It also spent much of last year in a boardroom spat with founder and biggest shareholder, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, who was outraged at the company's order for more than 100 new Airbus planes.

By contrast, Wizz has used the pandemic to expand, despite racking up a loss of almost 500m in the year to March. Set up in 2003 by boss Jozsef Varadi, its focus on Central and Eastern European travel means it has been less badly affected and it has added a string of new routes to its roster.

It now has more than 40 bases, compared with 25 before the Covid outbreak  and has called for major airlines such as British Airways and Easyjet to give up their unused airport slots.

In July a controversial bonus plan, which could hand Varadi more than 85m if share price and profit targets are hit, scraped through a shareholder vote with 50.5 per cent support.

Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said: 'Wizz Air looks a possible candidate to have made the bid as it is incredibly ambitious and Easyjet would provide it with much greater coverage of Western European, having already established a strong position in Eastern Europe. It is financially stronger than many of its rivals and owning Easyjet could turbocharge its growth.'

Easyjet chief executive Johan Lundgren, meanwhile, said the rebound from the pandemic presented a 'once in a lifetime opportunity' for the industry
The boss of Funding Circle is stepping back after making 26m over the last six years.

Samir Desai, who co-founded the online lender, will hand over the role of chief executive to Funding Circle's UK managing director Lisa Jacobs at the start of 2022.

Desai has run the lender since its launch 12 years ago, but will become a non-executive director from next year.

He was one of three friends who met at Oxford University and founded Funding Circle after first discussing their idea in a pub in 2008.

The business matches investors who want to lend with businesses which need the money.

Since 2016, Desai has been paid 4.9m in salaries, bonuses and share awards. He holds 15.4m shares in Funding Circle, worth 22.6m.

On top of that, he cashed in 21m worth of shares when he sold down his stake in Funding Circle during its float in 2018.

In its half-year results yesterday, it said profits swung to 35.4m from a 115.1m loss the same time last year.
Lloyd's of London expects almost all of its staff to be back in the office over the coming weeks after its boss highlighted the importance of face-to-face meetings.

The insurance marketplace is operating at around 35-to-40 per cent of its pre-pandemic staffing levels, and chief executive John Neal said he expects this number to double as more workers return this month.

And while many businesses have used the pandemic to cut back on international travel, Neal said he was looking forward to the day when employees could get back on planes to meet their clients and colleagues abroad.

Innovation: Lloyd's famous 'inside-out' building, towers over London's Leadenhall Market

Lloyd's of London has been a key business in the City for more than 330 years, and its famous underwriting room provides a place for insurance syndicates to receive queues of brokers to their desks to haggle over the terms of contracts.

But it was forced to shut out staff during lockdowns earlier this year and last year, and only reopened in May with a much-reduced capacity of a few hundred people.

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Neal said: 'I think that we've proved that we can work digitally and do that efficiently. But there is little doubt that there is value in our ability to trade face-to-face and actually travel, to be honest with you  bearing in mind that we are an international and global business.

'In our experience if you want people to collaborate, if you want people to be creative, and to connect and socialise, then you do need that face-to-face trading.'

Lloyd's swung to a 1.4billion profit in the first half of the year, from a 400m loss the same time last year. And it paid out 9.4billion in claims over the first six months of the year, largely related to Covid. Neal added that the marketplace had still not decided whether or not to vacate its famous 'inside-out' building, which towers over London's Leadenhall Market.
The father of the TikTok prankster who sensationally predicted New South Wales case numbers day after day has been hospitalised with the virus.

Gym owner Richard Kairouz, the dad of entertainer Jon-Bernard Kairouz, is in a Covid ward at St George Hospital, multiple sources told Daily Mail Australia.

Comedian Jon-Bernard became known as 'the TikTok guy' after repeatedly revealing the NSW Covid tally hours before Premier Gladys Berejiklian earlier this year.

Mr Kairouz, 24, claimed his insider knowledge came about via a nonsense mathematical theorem, rather than a leak from the state's health department.

However, the long-running joke ended in farce when he reported the wrong case number tally in late July.

Mr Kairouz junior was charged by police that same month for giving a speech at Sydney's anti-lockdown protest calling for freedom.

TikTok entertainer Jon-Bernard Kairouz accurately predicted the count of NSW Covid figures five days in a row, before his suspected source in NSW Health was exposed

Richard Kairouz (right) has been hospitalised with Covid-19. The family declined to respond to inquiries

The family has been hit hard by Covid in recent days, with former rugby league player Richard admitted to hospital on Saturday, a source close to the family said.

'He was symptomatic ... and kept deteriorating.

'(He) decided to go to hospital on the Saturday afternoon. The whole family is at home in isolation.

'After predicting the Covid-19 numbers daily, (Jon-Bernard) couldn't predict that he (his dad) would contract it.'

Jon-Bernard Kairouz will face court next week over charges, including an offence of encouraging the commission of a crime, relating to the anti-lockdown protest.

That day he gave a speech calling himself 'the People's Premier' and told 3,500 demonstrators: 'All we want is freedom.'

The NSW Police Force released tense footage of his the moment detectives confronted Kairouz on the street as he returned from an exercise session

Jon-Bernard Kairouz fired up anti-lockdown protesters during an illegal rally in Sydney in July. He was later charged with encouraging the commission of a crime, to face court next week

Kairouz is seen above when he was charged by officers on the street near his family's home on July 25

It is still unclear how Mr Kairouz managed to accurately predict the Covid case numbers for five days in a row.

His predictions only ended after he broadcast the wrong number one day. The feat hasn't been repeated by anyone else except for a handful of well-connected political reporters who have reliably forecast ballpark figures.

Health Minister Brad Hazzard denied that a 'trap' had been set for Mr Kairouz where false information was supplied to his source.

Mr Kairouz did enjoy his case numbers stardom, telling reporters prior to the police charges that he was 'having a ball'.

'It's been a whirlwind,' he added.

Mr Kairouz has kept a lower profile in the wake of the police action. No one from the family responded to repeated requests for comment this week.
Rubiela Arias, of Colombia, says it's an 'injustice' that sickened Ground Zero immigrants workers have not been granted permanent residency

He was stopped twice and return to Mexico two months ago for crossing the border, but still managed to return to the New York in his third attempt

The-50-year-old returned to Peru over a year ago to care for ill relatives and sought a humanitarian visa from the U.S., which was denied

Franklin Anchahua, of Peru, removed dust in offices, apartments and even in a chapel in lower Manhattan for weeks after the attacks and fell sick afterwards

Dozens of undocumented immigrant workers seek to have their status in the country legalized by the U.S. government as compensation for illness tied 9/11

A group of undocumented immigrant workers who hired to clean up following the September 11 terror attack on the World Trade Center are still demanding permanent residency from the U.S. government on the eve of the 20th anniversary of the attacks.

Lugelly Gil, 65, spent six months cleaning debris in lower Manhattan, at government offices, banks and restaurants. She made about $60 for every eight hours of work.

Franklin Anchahua, 50, was tasked with removing thick layers of dust in offices, apartments and even in a chapel in lower Manhattan for weeks after the attacks.

They and several dozen other immigrants - mostly from Spanish-speaking countries - have long asked to obtain legal immigration status in the U.S. as a way to compensate for the work and subsequent health problems they suffered following the coordinated attack on the Twin Towers.

But 20 years after 9/11, only several dozens are still participating in protests and making the request, while others have abandoned that fight.

Franklin Anchahua has several health conditions certified by the World Trade Center Health Program that are approved for treatment benefits for individuals who worked at the site in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks

Rubiela Arias, a native of Colombia, is among dozens of undocumented immigrants who are calling on the United States government to provide them legal residency in the country as compensation for the long-term illnesses that have suffered as a result of cleaning the World Trade Center following the September 11 attacks

Clinical social worker Rosa Bramble (right), of 'Borders for Hope,' attends a group meeting for immigrant ground zero clean-up workers of the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center attacks

Construction crews work at the World Trade Center on December 10, 2001 following the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center

Anchahua initially treated his heartburn and acid reflux with herbs his mother would send from Peru. But he avoided available health programs because he lives illegally in the U.S. and feared deportation.

The 50-year-old could not bear the pain any longer and sought care for the first in 2011 at Bellevue Hospital

'It was awful. I needed medical treatment, a specialist. I also had breathing problems,' said Anchahua.

Gil, a native of Colombia, started her first work shift in the Ground Zero area the morning of September 15, 201, the AFP reported.

In 2018, she received $40,000 as compensation from the federal victims fund after developing breast cancer and takes medication for rhinitis and gastritis. She is being treated for depression and uses an asthma inhaler.

Gil had nightmares for a long time after seeing first responders retrieve body parts. She vividly remembers her cough while working and the rashes in her skin after tearing down fiberglass insulating paper from walls.

'Instead of giving us some compensation, they could have given us (immigration) papers,' she told The Associated Press. 'All of us, all of the Hispanic workers, we saw the consequences of that cleanup work later on.'

'In comparison to other 9/11 workers, we as Latinos were discriminated,' Gil added in an interview with AFP.

Rubiela Arias, a 57-year-old Colombia, has struggled multiple illnesses as a result of working at the World Trade Center site.

She now utilizes a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device due to her difficulties with breathing.

'That the people who cleaned do not have papers is an injustice because they lost the most precious thing, which is health.  Health is priceless,' Arias said.

Lugelly Gil (center) spent six months cleaning debris in lower Manhattan, at government offices, banks and restaurants. She made about $60 for every eight hours of work. The 65-year-old Colombian received $40,000 as compensation from the federal victims fund after developing breast cancer and takes medication for rhinitis and gastritis

Rubiela Arias has to utilize a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device due to her difficulties with breathing

Rubble of the twin towers of the World Trade Center smolder following the terrorist attacks in lower Manhattan on September 11, 2001

About four years ago, Anchahua, the Peruvian immigrant, received $52,000 after filing a claim against the cleaning company he worked for in lower Manhattan after the attacks. Early last year he moved back to Peru to assist his elderly mother and a sick brother.

He decided, however, to return to New York this year after not finding work in his homeland and concluding that he needed to continue medical treatment. He asked the U.S. government for a humanitarian visa, which was denied. He crossed the border illegally through Mexico last month.

Anchahua, who shares a bedroom with his father in Queens, has struggled to find employment because he does not have a permanent residency in the United States.

'It is hard to find a job here without immigration status,' Anchahua said. 'Attorneys who helped us years ago told us we would get immigration papers but, look, 20 years have passed and we have nothing.'

Not as visible as those who worked on the World Trade Center rubble pile, some of these cleaners didnt seek medical help immediately because they feared deportation, ignored how to navigate the application process or did not know help was available.

While some say they feel forgotten by the U.S. government, others returned to Latin America.

Hired informally by cleaning companies, they cleared debris, asbestos and dust inside lower Manhattan buildings for months without adequate protective gear. Some are struggling to cope with how the disaster transformed their lives, saying they are also treated for anxiety, depression and post traumatic disorder.

A few of them are organizing a small protest in October to push the government to establish a pathway for legal residency for immigrant cleanup workers.

They have done similar protests in the past. Former U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley announced a bill in 2017 to put Sept. 11 responders and cleanup workers on a fast track to legal immigration status in the U.S. His office estimated then that 1,000 to 2,000 immigrants would be covered.

Newspaper pages showing coverage of the deaths of immigrant ground zero clean-up workers

Franklin Anchahua-Herrera holds his medical inhaler during an August 17, 2021 interview in a room that he shares with his father in the New York City borough of Queens. He has several health conditions certified by the World Trade Center Health Program that are approved for treatment benefits for individuals who worked at the site in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks

The bill did not go very far; it was not reintroduced by any of Congressman Crowley's fellow cosponsors after he retired.

The office of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who defeated Crowley in midterm election primaries in 2018, told AP it was 'actively' exploring the possibility of reintroducing the bill.

'The Congresswoman is also supportive of greater immigration reform, co-sponsoring many pieces of legislation that would have provided a path to citizenship for these workers as well as others,' said Ocasio-Cortez spokesperson Lauren Hitt.

While many of the cleaners were from Latin America, others were from Poland and other European countries. They organized in different groups and shared information about medical help and forms of compensation.

Rosa Bramble Caballero, a licensed clinical social worker, has helped these workers for 15 years, first in partnership with state and local programs to assist them and afterward voluntarily, organizing meetings at the basement of her office in Queens.

Dozens of cleanup workers have shown up there to talk, eat chicken and cheese empanadas, and sip coffee together.

'This became a space so they could feel safe, talk about their lives, about their needs, but most of all, support each other, not feel alone,' said Bramble Caballero.

Franklin Anchahua moved back to Peru early last year to assist his elderly mother and a sick brother. He decided, however, to return to New York this year after not finding work in his homeland and concluding that he needed to continue medical treatment. Anchahua asked the U.S. government for a humanitarian visa, which was denied. He crossed the border illegally through Mexico last month.

More than 112,000 people have enrolled in the federal World Trade Center Health Program, which offers free medical care to people who can document that they were exposed to dust from the twin towers, regardless of their immigration status.

Many of those enrollees have mild or controllable conditions, like heartburn, chronic sinus problems or asthma, that are common in the general public and may or may not be linked to the attacks. Others are more seriously ill or developed conditions rare for their age group.

Joan Reibman, medical director at the World Trade Center Environmental Health Center, which has treated cleanup workers for years, said that many of them have developed a significant reduction in lung function, digestive disorders and PTSD.

'They were exposed to terrible sights in those days,' she said.

They faced barriers in seeking care, like economic vulnerabilities and not belonging to a union, she said.

'Many of them were not aware of the programs because they were not connected in the same way that many other responders were. Many of them were also not English speakers,' said Reibman.

About 800 cleanup workers are treated at the WTC Environmental Health Center, one of several places they could potentially get care.

The medical programs do not ask about immigration status.

Luis Soriano, another cleanup worker, also left for Latin America but decided not to return to the U.S.

'My mother was getting old so I moved to Ecuador in 2016. But my health wasn't great,' said the 59-year-old artisan mannequin maker in a phone interview.

Soriano cleared debris for three months around Fulton Street. He still sometimes feels fatigue or shortness of breath.. Medication for that, however, is expensive in Ecuador and he cant afford it, he said.

'We need to be remembered. We were all immigrants who contributed to the U.S. We worked hard there, paid taxes, grew old there. Some cleanup workers I knew died of cancer,' he said. 'We should all be remembered for what we did.'
Amazon told US regulators on Wednesday that Elon Musk does not believe government regulations apply to the Tesla and SpaceX billionaire in a scathing filing amid an ongoing rivalry over satellite launches.

In a harshly worded filing with the Federal Communications Commission, (FCC) Amazon accused Musk of ignoring a variety of government-imposed rules, including several Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements.

'Whether it is launching satellites with unlicensed antennas, launching rockets without approval, building an unapproved launch tower, or re-opening a factory in violation of a shelter-in-place order, the conduct of SpaceX and other Musk-led companies makes their view plain: rules are for other people, and those who insist upon or even simply request compliance are deserving of derision and ad hominem attacks,' Amazon wrote.

'If the FCC regulated hypocrisy, SpaceX would be keeping the commission very busy.'

Amazon says Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk (pictured) has a habit of shirking the rules as regulators probe the company's Autopilot software more seriously

Pictured: Jeff Bezos, founder and CEO of Amazon and Musk are rivals in the private space launch business

Both SpaceX and Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Wednesday. The FCC and FAA declined to comment.

Amazon's Project Kuiper, a planned $10 billion network of over 3,000 satellites that will provide high-speed internet from space, faces stiff competition from SpaceX's Starlink network - a broadband internet system already in its beta form intended 'to meet the needs of consumers across the globe via a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites,' the company's website reads.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Musk are rivals in the private space launch business. Bezos' Blue Origin has challenged the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's decision to award a $2.9 billion lunar lander contract to SpaceX, with those projects separate to the billionaires' satellite ambitions.

A graphic showing the design of Amazon's user antenna Amazon's Project Kuiper reveals design of antennas customers will use for internet-from-space constellation

A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket with the 26th batch of approximately 60 satellites for SpaceX's Starlink broadband network lifts off from pad 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral on May 4

On August 25, Amazon asked the FCC to reject a proposed SpaceX revision to its satellite configuration plans, saying it was at odds with FCC rules and left 'nearly every major detail unsettled.'

Tesla is currently facing a National Highway Transportation Safety Administration probe over the autopilot system in its cars following 13 crashes - one fatal - feared to have been caused by the vehicles' sensors getting confused by parked emergency responder vehicles' flashing lights.

Last week, SpaceX accused Amazon in its own filing with the FCC of seeking to delay SpaceX's plan, saying it was 'only the latest in its continuing efforts to slow down competition.'

'While SpaceX has proceeded to deploy more than 1,700 satellites, Amazon has yet to even attempt to address the radio frequency interference and orbital debris issues that must be resolved before Amazon can deploy its constellation,' SpaceX added.

The aerospace company suggested that 'as (Amazon) falls behind competitors ... it is more than willing to use regulatory and legal processes to create obstacles designed to delay those competitors from leaving Amazon even further behind.'

Meanwhile, Amazon's filing said 'SpaceX has just one name for any private company that dares point out its flouting of laws and regulations: 'anti-competitive.''
Five men have been charged with dozens of offences and nine stolen vehicles seized as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged organised crime syndicates across Sydney.

NSW detectives set up Strike Force Newnham earlier this year after a taxi driver handed in to police in a bag found in the back of his vehicle containing two loaded pistols and an electronic stun device wrapped in towels.

A ballistic examination linked one of the firearms to a shooting in Westmead in western Sydney in June 2020.

Police raided two properties in late July which resulted in the arrests of three men before further inquiries led to two more men being charged with multiple charges on Wednesday.

A Volkswagen, two Mercedes, Audi S5 and three BMWs were among the fleet of allegedly stolen vehicles seized.

Detectives executed a crime scene warrant at a property a Summer Hill in Sydney's inner-west on July 30, where registration plates and mechanical equipment were seized.

Police have released footage of a search warrant of this Canterbury home on Wednesday, where they

Prohibited drugs, more registration plates and seven stolen high-performance vehicles were also seized during a search warrant at a Maraylya property in Sydney's north-west the same day

A Volkswagen, Mercedes, Audi S5 and two BMWs with a combined value of more than $500,000 were among the vehicles seized.

A black Mercedes AMG and BMW M3 were also seized after two tow trucks were stopped by officers on the M4 the same day.

A man, 29, was arrested at the Maraylya property and later charged with a string of charges, including attempting receive property theft, possession prohibited drug, possession/attempt to prescribed restricted substance, and receiving.

He has been hit with 20 more offences and will reappear in Parramatta Local Court on September 15.

Two men aged 24 and 53 face court on Thursday after they were each charged with 20 offences on Wednesday

A second man, 36, was charged the same day during a vehicle stop at Summer Hill.

He was charged with two counts of possession of a prohibited drug, driving while licence cancelled, contravene public safety order, possession of unauthorised pistol, acquiring pistol subject to firearms prohibition order, acquire ammunition subject to prohibition order and possession ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority.

Police will allege he was also in possession of a firearm left in a taxi earlier this year when the man reappears in Campbelltown Local Court in October.

A third arrest was made the next day on July 31 at Penrith police station.

The man, 30, as charged with two counts of possession of unauthorised pistol, possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority and possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit.

Police alleged the man was in possession of a firearm left in a taxi earlier this year.

He will also face court in October.

A number of luxury vehicles (pictured) were seized as part of investigation into alleged crime syndicates across Sydney

Two more men aged 24 and 53 were arrested when strike force detectives and Raptor Squad officers raided a home in Canterbury in Sydney's south-west on Wednesday

Officers seized cash, numerous vehicle keys, a police strobe light, documentation among other items.

Both men were charged with 20 offences and were refused bail to appear in Burwood Local Court on Thursday.

Police allege the men were involved in obtaining the nine stolen vehicles located at Maraylya in July.

Detectives urge the public to come forward with information as investigations continue.

This man (pictured on Wednesday) is one of five who have been arrested and charged with multiple offences

'Specialist police have been conducting a thorough forensic examination of the vehicles and the locations they were found in, while investigators continue to canvass surrounding suburbs,' Criminal Groups Squad Commander Detective Superintendent Grant Taylor said.

'As investigations continue, police are interested in speaking with anyone who has noticed high-end vehicles coming and going from locations in their local area.

'We know there are many in the community who are affected by COVID-19 and spending more time at home. It is possible that your observations may be of great assistance to police.

'Sydney and its surrounding suburbs have recently been plagued with violent criminal activity that is now firmly under the microscope of police,' Det Supt Taylor said.
At least ten people died last night when a fire tore through a hospital treating coronavirus patients in North Macedonia, authorities said.

The fire broke out following an explosion in a Covid-19 clinic in Tetovo in the northwest of the Balkan country, Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said as he headed to the town.

The inferno surged through the building due to its plastic-heavy modular design - which aided its speedy construction last year as the country battled coronavirus.

'A huge tragedy': Rescuers battle choking plastic smoke as the hospital is engulfed in fire

Rescue mission: Emergency services battle to save patients in the fire-hit coronavirus unit

'A huge tragedy has occurred in the Tetovo Covid-19 centre,' Zaev said on Twitter. 'An explosion caused a fire. The fire was extinguished but many lives were lost.'

At least 10 people died in the disaster, Health Minister Venko Filipce said.

'At the moment, 10 people are confirmed to have died, but that number could rise,' he said on Twitter, expressing his 'profound condolences' to the victims' families.

The fire occurred as the former Yugoslav republic celebrated the 30th anniversary of its independence, with festivities in the capital Skopje, including a military parade.

Investigators have gone to the site to try to determine the cause of the disaster.

Ruins: The charred and melted remains of the mainly plastic buildings after the inferno

The death toll from the tragedy could grow, with several people injured, officials have warned

Fire services were alerted to the blaze at around 9pm local time, and it took about 45 minutes to extinguish.

The modular Covid unit had only been built last year at the hospital to look after coronavirus patients in Tetovo, a town of around 50,000 people.

'The fire was huge because the hospital is modular, there was plastic,' Tetovo deputy fire chief Saso Trajcevski told local television.

'We took out victims while we put out the flames.'

Several injured people were transported to hospitals in the capital.

'The fight for life is still going on and all services are doing everything they can to save people,' Zaev said, expressing 'deep condolences to the families and of the deceased'.

'I wish the injured a quick recovery'.

North Macedonia has a population of around two million and its healthcare services are run down.

It has reported a rise in coronavirus infections recently, with the daily death toll reaching around 30. The country has recorded more than 6,100 fatalities in total since the start of the pandemic.

Covid-19 hospitals in other countries have been hit by explosions followed by fires.

In Iraq, dozens of people were killed in fires that occurred after oxygen cylinders exploded in April and July.
Prince Andrew is 'utterly convinced' that he will brush off allegations of rape and sexual assault, insiders say

He is convinced he could return to public life as soon as the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next year, it is claimed

Duke of York has apparently told aides the scandal surrounding the bombshell lawsuit will 'blow over'

Insiders described Andrew's 'bullish' attitude and said he believes there is time to salvage his reputation

Andrew was seen leaving Royal Lodge in Berkshire with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson on Tuesday for Balmoral

The duke has not yet responded to lawsuit filed in US by Jeffrey Epstein's former sex slave Virginia Giuffre

She claims Andrew sexually abused her when she was 17 but he vehemently denies having sex with her

Prince Andrew is 'utterly convinced' that he will brush off allegations of rape and sexual assault from Jeffrey Epstein's former sex slave and believes he could return to public life as soon as the Queen's Platinum Jubilee next year, insiders have claimed.

The Duke of York has apparently told aides that the scandal surrounding the bombshell lawsuit filed in a US court by Virginia Giuffre will 'blow over' and has earmarked a return to the royal front line in time for Her Majesty's historic anniversary next year.

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Sources described Andrew's 'incredibly bullish' attitude and said he believes there is time to salvage his reputation. Palace sources have insisted the duke will 'not take part' in any of the official celebrations marking the Queen's seven decades on the throne.

One insider close to the royal told The Daily Mirror: 'It is clear he (Andrew) has a clear and burning desire to return to work as soon as possible.

'That may look entirely impossible but if anything he's become emboldened in recent weeks and remains utterly convinced he will not only be exonerated but will certainly forge a way back to public life.

'Certainly he has given the incredibly bullish impression that this will all blow over within a short while, rather than become a protracted issue.'

Andrew was seen leaving the Royal Lodge in Berkshire with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson on Tuesday for Balmoral, where the Queen is currently on holiday, as attempts to serve legal papers on him over sex allegations at Windsor continue.

On Wednesday the duke was seen at a a fishing lodge in a secluded forest six miles from Balmoral and was said to have had a personal lunch with the Queen.

Another source revealed the Duke had been in a 'buoyant' mood, adding: 'Andrew claims he hasn't read the news and hasn't kept up with what is happening around him, which anyone can see is not only catastrophic for his reputation but very damaging for the wider royal family.'

Andrew has not yet publicly responded to the bombshell lawsuit filed in a US court by paedophile financier Epstein's ex-sex slave Ms Giuffre, who claims he sexually abused her when she was 17. The duke has always denied her allegations.

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Ms Giuffre has accused Andrew of abusing her at Epstein's Manhattan mansion as well as his private Caribbean island, and at the London home of his madam Ghislaine Maxwell, who is currently in a New York jail awaiting sex abuse and grooming charges.

Prince Andrew is pictured with Sarah Ferguson in the back seat of the Range Rover as they left Windsor

Virginia Roberts, now Virginia Giuffre, was photographed with Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell in London in 2001

Prince Andrew (left) arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson in the back of a Range Rover

The Queen during an inspection at the gates at Balmoral as she takes up summer residence at the Scottish castle on August 9

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Timeline of another dramatic month in the Prince Andrew case August 9 : Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17

: Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17 August 10 : Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day

: Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day August 10 : US lawyers were allegedly trying to hold him up on his horse to serve him papers before he left.

August 12: Dame Cressida Dick says she has told Met Police detectives to review the claims against Andrew

August 13: Ms Giuffre's lawyer says Andrew will be served papers in person under the Hague Convention

August 14: Epstein's telecoms specialist says he will swear on oath that he saw Andrew groping Ms Giuffre

August 15: Andrew's friends say he is 'cheerful and relaxed' over the case in and will remain silent

August 16: A source close to the US probe into Jeffrey Epstein says they view Andrew as a 'person of interest'

September 7 : Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland

: Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland September 13 : First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York

: First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York December 8 : Deadline for Andrew to be served with court papers in person under the Hague Convention

Papers have not yet been served on the Duke of York or his lawyers despite 'multiple attempts' at Royal Lodge in the last fortnight, according to The Sun - and Andrew is now set to stay at the Queen's 50,000 acre estate while the case is heard.

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Andrew will have to be served in person with court papers including a copy of Ms Guiffre's complaint under the Hague Convention international law treaty because he is a foreign citizen.

When the lawsuit was filed, her legal team were given 120 days to get Andrews the papers or his lawyers could try to get the case dismissed.

Andrew would have 21 days to respond once the papers are officially served.

Under the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules, papers must be served on all defendants within 120 days after a civil complaint is filed at court - and the action can then be dismissed unless the plaintiff can 'show good cause for the delay'.

This means Ms Guiffre's lawyers will have until December 8 to serve the papers on Andrew.

The civil suit is due to be heard via a telephone conference next Monday in Manhattan.

A source told the Sun: 'Andrew was going stir-crazy inside Royal Lodge for the past few weeks.

'He wasn't going horse riding and couldn't step outside because of attempts to serve him with the legal papers.

'He knows he is far safer up at Balmoral on the Queen's estate. Andrew is always described as the Queen's favourite son but she is meant to be on holiday at Balmoral.

'With Andrew and everything that is happening with Charles and the investigation into cash for honours she must be wondering when she will get any peace and quiet.'

The duke has stepped back from public duties 'for the foreseeable future' after his friendship with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein surfaced in 2019.

Ms Guiffre, 38, alleges that Epstein forced her to have sex with Andrew three times when she was aged 17.

Andrew has strenuously denied her claims that she was forced to have sex with him on Epstein's orders. He said he categorically did not have any sexual contact with her and does not even recall meeting her.

Last month it was claimed Andrew is considered a 'person of interest' in the US investigation into Epstein.

Prosecutors had wanted to interview the Queen's son about his friendship with Epstein as part of their inquiry into the sex offender and Ghislaine Maxwell.

It was always said investigators wished to speak to him only as a 'witness' in case he can throw any light on the crimes of Epstein, who killed himself in jail in 2019.

But last month a source told Reuters that he is being seen as a 'person of interest'. One leading criminal defence attorney said that while the term does not have any formal meaning in the US, the fact the FBI were apparently using it about Andrew was 'not good'.

Mark Bederow, a New York criminal defence attorney, said: 'It means they are interested in knowing about his conduct and whether he knew that a potential crime has occurred.'

He added it does not mean that he would ever be charged, however.

Prince Charles and Camilla at Ballater Community and Heritage Hub in Aberdeenshire on August 31, near the Balmoral estate

By revealing their thinking at this stage, a week after Mrs Giuffre filed a civil lawsuit against him, it seems like 'publicity pressure mechanism', Mr Bederow said.

Virginia Roberts alleges that Jeffrey Epstein (above) forced her to have sex with Andrew three times when she was just 17

MailOnline contacted Andrew's press representative for a comment about the Sun's story, but they replied: 'No comment.'

Ghislaine Maxwell is currently on remand in at Metropolitan Detention Centre (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, which she denies. She is due to go on trial in November.

Last month, prosecutors claimed she tried to barricade herself in a prison room, saying she created a security threat by using a cart of legal documents to block the door.

Her actions were said to have prevented guards from entering the video conference room. As a result, Maxwell was banned from bringing the cart in and was forced to carry materials from her cell to the conference room.

The British socialite has been at the prison since last July, when she was arrested for allegedly recruiting children for Epstein to abuse.

Virginia Giuffre (centre, in blue) in New York in 2019 with her lawyer David Boies for a hearing

Andrew has travelled with Sarah Ferguson to Balmoral Castle (file picture), with is the Queen's Scottish retreat

The Queen with her son Prince Andrew on the Buckingham Palace balcony in June 2019

Prince Charles awards a CBE to Saudi tycoon Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz at Buckingham Palace in November 2016

What is the latest on Ghislane Maxwell's case? Ghislaine Maxwell, the alleged madam of Jeffrey Epstein, is currently on remand in at Metropolitan Detention Centre (MDC) in Brooklyn, New York. She is awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, which she denies. Maxwell is due to go on trial in November. Last month, prosecutors claimed she tried to barricade herself in a prison room and created a security threat by using a cart of legal documents to block the door. Her actions were said to have prevented guards from entering the video conference room. Maxwell was then banned from bringing the cart in and was forced to carry materials from her cell to the conference room. The British socialite has been at the prison since last July, when she was arrested for allegedly recruiting children for Epstein to abuse. There have been disputes about her cell not being clean and allegations that she does not flush her toilet. Maxwell's lawyer said her client never tried to block her door with the cart and stop the guards getting in.

There have been disputes about her cell not being clean and allegations that she does not flush her toilet.

Maxwell's lawyer Bobbi Sternheim said her client never tried to block her door with the cart and stop the guards getting in.

The allegations against Andrew are not the only crisis unfolding for the Royal Family, as it has recently been claimed that the Prince of Wales was '100 per cent' behind an offer to help Saudi tycoon Mahfouz Marei Mubarak bin Mahfouz secure UK citizenship.

Clarence House said Charles has 'no knowledge' of the cash for honours allegations on the basis of donation to his charities, denying allegations by a former fixer.

The claims by William Bortrick - a paid advisor to Dr bin Mahfouz, who is a major donor to Charles's charities - came as the Prince's former valet Michael Fawcett stepped down on a temporary basis as chief of the Prince's Foundation while investigations into the allegations take place.

A string of claims about 58-year-old Mr Fawcett's conduct while running the charity included the allegation that he had offered to 'support' Dr bin Mahfouz in his efforts to secure both a knighthood and British citizenship.

And new allegations about Charles's apparent involvement have emerged in a draft letter from Mr Bortrick to Dr bin Mahfouz, who donated more than 1.5million to Charles's charities.

A letter by Burke's Peerage publisher Mr Bortrick, which was drafted in May 2014 and revealed by The Times, said that Dr bin Mahfouz's application for citizenship would 'now take the highest priority'.

It added: 'His Royal Highness supports these applications 100 per cent, as there is no greater example of contribution [than] yours, therefore this should be rewarded and recognised accordingly.'

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A spokesman for the prince said: 'The Prince of Wales has no knowledge of the alleged offer of honours or British citizenship on the basis of donation to his charities and fully supports the investigation now under way by The Prince's Foundation.'
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Worshippers who flouted Melbourne's lockdown laws to celebrate Jewish New Year were breaching coronavirus restrictions for months by pretending to be an Alcoholics Anonymous mental health group, a local MP claims.

Police issued more than 100 fines each worth $5,452 after a series of Rosh Hashanah services were held in breach of public health orders on Tuesday night.

Some worshippers confronted police and others fled on rooftops after as many as 30 people gathered for a celebration at the orthodox Adass Israel Synagogue on Glen Eira Avenue in Ripponlea in Melbourne's south-east.

Six worshippers from that service were been fined $5,452 for breaching lockdown.

Deputy Victorian Opposition leader David Southwick claimed worshippers at the temple were 'untouchable for months' by operating under the guise of a mental health group, which allows up to 10 people to gather at once.

Police speak to worshippers (pictured) at a Jewish New Year's celebration at the Adass Israel Synagogue in Ripponlea, Melbourne, on Tuesday

'My understanding is they were operating under an AA-type meeting and mental health group that allows you to have 10 people congregate at a time,' he told the Herald Sun.

'[Health officials] did not have enforceability powers because that group were operating in a certain guise.'

Mr Southwick said he wrote to worshippers in the months leading up to Jewish New Year asking them not to congregate during lockdown.

'[This] was not a new situation with this particular group, this group has been involved for some time in a number of activities,' he said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison also pleaded with worshippers to follow lockdown rules in the days leading up to Tuesday's end-of-year celebrations, which is a major event on the Jewish calendar.

'The Covid-19 pandemic has cast its shadow over all our lives and kept us from the rites and gatherings we yearn to celebrate,' he said last week.

'I know this year your celebrations will once again be subdued but I have faith that you will find inspiration and sweetness in these days of awe, as the sound of the shofar echoes in your hearts.'

One news cameraman was allegedly assaulted and taken to hospital with a concussion after Tuesday's confrontation in Ripponlea.

A gathering celebrating Jewish New Year in Melbourne ended with fiery scenes and police moving in to shut down the event and issuing $5,452 fines to 'all adults' who attended (men near the synagogue in Ripponlea, pictured)

Up to 30 people are now believed to have attended the Rosh Hashanah celebration at a Ripponlea synagogue in Melbourne 's south-east, which is pictured

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Russell Barrett told worshippers who were yet to come forward to turn themselves in.

He vowed to hunt down every adult who was inside the synagogue and fine them.

'I'm appalled,' he said on Wednesday morning. 'Come forward, identify yourself. My instruction to my investigators today is every person at the gathering will receive a penalty notice.'

Supporters were pictured standing outside the Adass Israel Synagogue of Melbourne on Tuesday night as the Rosh Hashanah celebrations continued inside.

There was initially believed to be 100 people inside, but police downscaled the estimated number to around 30 on Wednesday.

Police guarded every exit from the synagogue to swoop on worshippers as they left, but many instead took to the roofs of nearby buildings to escape.

Victoria's Deputy Leader of the Opposition David Southwick. He said he had personally written to worshippers in the months leading up to Jewish New Year asking them not to congregate during lockdown

The tense standoff between Victorian police and worshippers (pictured) spilled into abuse and claims of anti-Semitism as police moved in to disperse the gathering. Police later issued a statement saying 'all adults' in attendance would receive a $5,452 fine

Assistant Commissioner Barrett added: 'The best approach was to wait and try and contact the people inside and negotiate with them to come out.

'If you were there yesterday and have not spoken to police, you should come forward.'

Police also confirmed they were investigating the assault of a 45 year old TV news cameraman about 7pm.

'All the media there were calm and listening to police direction. There was a crowd in the laneway that were making much more of a fuss,' he told the Herald Sun.

'But the crowd kept antagonising us. They were saying 'stop filming us'. I was then attacked, struck to the top of my head.'

The illegal service was condemned by the Jewish Community Council of Victoria on Wednesday.

'The actions of a few do not represent the vast majority of our community who have celebrated Rosh Hashanah at home only with the people with whom they live, and just like the wider community, continue to follow the rules,' it said in a statement.

The condemnation of the gathering by Jewish community leaders was welcomed by Victoria premier Dan Andrews (pictured)

A group of mask-wearing men pass police near one of the gatherings on Tuesday night (pictured)

The condemnation was welcomed by Premier Dan Andrews.

'I understand this has been a difficult year for lots of people if you break the rules we will be in lockdown longer,' he said.

'I have not seen the footage and I do not want to cast aspersions on any groups or any section of our community.

'The Jewish community called out that behaviour and were very quick to do it and I am very grateful to Jewish leaders for doing that.'

Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp said she was astounded at the huge illegal service.

'I don't know what planet these people live on,' she said. 'We are a city that has been in lockdown for more days than any other city around the world.

'It seems that there are some people that are determined to be selfish and to flout the restrictions.

'It is just not fair that some members of the community feel that they can flout the rules and get away with it.

'We are grateful to the police and the community for raising these issues so that we can get on top of them and we can really help people remain unified around our ultimate quest to open and to stay open.'

The main illegal gathering occurred at Adass Israel Synagogue in Glen Eira Avenue, Ripponlea in inner Melbourne during a Jewish New Year celebration

Police come face to face with worshippers from Jewish New Year celebrations at the orthodox Adass Israel Synagogue in Glen Eira Avenue, Ripponlea on Tuesday night

A second, smaller illegal prayer group assembled for Jewish New Year was also dispersed by police from an apartment above the Ripponlea IGA supermarket, also on Glen Eira Avenue.

Police were understood to have been made aware of the illegal gatherings on Tuesday morning and reports indicated they waited for people to exit the celebrations during the day.

But tensions grew as worshippers and their supporters confronted police in the early evening.

Two worshippers climbed onto a nearby roof around 6pm as the confrontations ignited with some supporters heard abusing police and accusing media and health authorities of anti-Semitism.

Police moved in to end the standoff after 8pm on Tuesday.

Witnesses said supporters chanted, pushed cameras, and yelled insults at media who assembled as news of the standoff spread on Tuesday afternoon.

Police shut down the illegal gathering on Tuesday night after waiting for the attendees to disperse during the day

Victorian police speak with worshippers outside an illegal gathering to celebrate Jewish New Year at Ripponlea on Tuesday night

Jewish New Year celebrations, known as Rosh Hashanah, commenced on September 6 and lasted until the evening of September 8. They are mostly observed privately during the lockdown.

It is understood people began gathering the Adass synagogue on Monday evening, setting up for a major event.

A witness claimed to have seen two groups of '20 to 30' people without masks entering the synagogue.

'I just think this behaviour from anyone in society at this time is just appalling, it's disgusting really because small businesses are already hurting, and this is just extending what's already happening,' passer-by Steve Davis told 9News.

Victorian Police said all adults who attended would be issued with a $5,452 fine, but the children who were present would not be.

'Investigators believe a number of other people were present and are yet to be spoken to by police. Investigators are working to identify them,' it said.

Victoria Police broke up two Jewish New Year celebrations that took place on Tuesday in breach of Covid restrictions

A family is pictured near the synagogue in Ripponlea, which was the site of a standoff between worshippers and police

Around 100 Jewish New Year worshippers held illegal gatherings (pictured) and refused to comply with police directions
Heartbroken family who flew to Sydney for their seriously ill baby boy have been denied an exemption to quarantine in their own home when they return to Queensland, despite offers from Angel Flight to drop them off at an airstrip close by.

Jessie Evans and her partner Billy Blacker travelled from their regional town of Jandowae in Queensland to NSW in August with their four-month-old son Rocka so their son could be admitted to Sydney's Children Hospital Hospital.

Rocka, who suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 1, needed to undertake gene therapy treatment in Sydney as it's the only place that offers it.

A Queensland family who flew to Sydney for their seriously ill baby to receive medical treatment, have had their exemption to quarantine at their rural property denied

The family applied for a medical exemption to quarantine at their 300-acre property to minimise the risk of Rocka becoming sick when they returned, but Queensland Health has denied the request.

Queensland Health officials have instead told the family they must fly to Brisbane, where Ms Evans and Rocka will quarantine in a Brisbane hospital away from Mr Blacker, who will have to quarantine alone in a separate hotel.

In an interview with Today on Thursday Ms Evans said: 'It's been tough travelling away from home. We'd do it again for our child, but yeah, it's definitely been a tough situation and now that we can't go home, it just makes it a little tougher'.

Queensland officials told the family they must fly to Brisbane where Ms Evans and Rocka will quarantine in a Brisbane hospital, and Mr Blacker will quarantine alone in a hotel

Ms Evans said that health authorities couldn't provide the family with an answer over why their request was denied.

'We're not asking for special treatment. I know there's more than one other family that people know about that have been able to go home and home quarantine,' she said.

'It's not like we've come down here to go on holidays. We've come down here with a sick little boy we're just trying to do the best for. We just want to keep him as safe as possible when we do take him home.'

The family also confirmed that charity group Angel Flight, which coordinates non-emergency flights to assist country people to access specialist medical treatment, offered to fly them home to the nearest airport so the family could isolate at home this week.

Angel Flight CEO Marjorie Pagani told Daily Mail Australia that they had written a support letter to Queensland Health stating that they could assist to get the family home safely.

Ms Pagani said: Weve told Queensland Health, the Premier and the Chief Health Officer that we have pilots standing by right now as we speak to move the family from Sydney, from their hospital, straight up to their farming property.

The family want to know why their request was denied despite an offer from Angel Flight to fly the family to their nearest airport

We make a promise that our pilots and passengers wont come into contact with any of the public during the journey, that everyone will be masked, and the planed will be cleaned to sufficient standards both before and after the flights.

Despite the offer, the state government has only allowed Angel Flight to transport the family to Brisbane.

The family don't understand why they have to be separated during quarantine and why they have to expose their immunocompromised baby to potential harm while travelling through the airport and at quarantine facilities.

'We're not trying to do anything wrong or ask them to change all the rules and break them all,' Ms Evans said.

'We're just asking to keep our sick child safe and all we want to do is do the best by him.'

Ms Pagani said: 'Our offer still stands. We reiterated it just an hour ago with Queensland Government, who say they are still considering their options.'

'But, we have a pilot and aircraft right now ready to take off as soon as they are released from the Sydney hospital.'

Queensland Health are now working with the family.

Queensland Health officials have said they are working with the family (pictured: Queensland police stopping cars at the Queensland border)
California governor hopeful Larry Elder had an egg thrown at him by a woman in a gorilla mask as he toured a homeless encampment on Venice Beach.

The unidentified woman - whose choice of headwear has been branded racist by some commentators online - was also filmed punching a man who told her to calm down.

Wednesday's incident, which was captured on video by Spectrum News reporter Kate Cagle and posted to Twitter, shows the leading GOP candidate in the gubernatorial recall race as he arrives in his new 'Recall Express' campaign bus after casting his ballot earlier in the morning.

The conservative talk show host-turned-politician made it only 12 minutes at the encampment on 3rd Avenue before being chased by angry homeless people and the woman in the gorilla mask, who was traveling on a smart black bike.

'Get the hell out of here!' the group yelled as an unidentified, gorilla mask-wearing woman throws the egg in Elder's direction from a bicycle.

'It kind of glanced his head,' an Elder campaign staffer told the Los Angeles Times of the egg.

Elder quickly got into a waiting Chevrolet Suburban and exited the tense scene.

He later tweeted about the incident, writing: 'Today I kicked off the Recall Express bus tour. Before we even left Los Angeles, my security detail was physically assaulted, shot with a pellet gun, and hit with projectiles. The intolerant left will not stop us. We will recall Gavin Newsom. We will save California.'

Elder (pictured) made it only 12 minutes at the encampment on 3rd Avenue before at least one person hurled an egg at him, causing him to get in a nearby Suburban and exit the scene

A woman wearing a gorilla mask follows conservative talk show host and gubernatorial recall candidate Larry Elder as he walks along streets lined with tents of unhoused people, in Venice

Conservative talk show host and gubernatorial recall candidate Larry Elder, flanked by supporters, security and media, walks along streets lined with tents of homeless people

The same woman can then be seen angrily confronting an Elder campaign staffer, who she punches in the face while yelling obscenities, before another woman attempts to hit him as Elder and his staff make their way to the SUV.

Elder was joined by community activists and members of the Venice Neighborhood Council Public Health & Safety Committee Soledad Ursua and Chie Lunn, as they escorted Elder along Sunset Avenue.

'The intolerant left will not stop us. We will recall Gavin Newsom. We will save California' Elder tweeted after the attack

Elder tweeted a link (pictured) to a news article calling his attacker an 'angry white liberal'

'He has no business down here,' said encampment resident Sarah Duke, a homeless woman who is nearly four months pregnant.

'If you aint going to help us, move ... on.'

The exact nature of the group's gripe with Elder remains uncertain.

Last month, Elder pledged to implement a plan developed by former US Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti to house homeless residents, saying he would declare a 'homeless emergency' in the state as governor.

Elder gets in a waiting Chevrolet Suburban and exit the tense scene on Wednesday morning

The exact nature of the group's gripe with Elder remains uncertain

Elder added that he would consider himself a failure if he is not able to solve the state's homeless issue should he be elected governor, according to Black Enterprise.

His next stop on Wednesday was far more positive while at Brents Deli in Northridge, where patrons cheered and filmed Elder before leaving with a take-out order of eight to 10 Reuben sandwiches, the the delis cashier told the Times.

Elder is the favorite conservative candidate to wrest the governorship from incumbent Gavin Newsom.

The recall election, scheduled for September 14, came after Newsom was blasted over his handling of the COVID pandemic.

CAUTION: EXPLICIT LANGUAGE

He was also slated for eating indoors at the ultra-exclusive French Laundry restaurant in 2020 while imploring Californians to stay indoors.

The state endured among the toughest and longest-lasting lockdown measures of any US state, with Newsom facing further allegations of being out of touch after sending his children back to private schools with in-person classes while many California school districts refused to reopen classrooms.

Despite the scandals, a recent YouGov poll suggested Newsom will hold onto his job, with 58 per cent saying they'll vote to keep him, with just 41 per cent opting to ditch.

Anyone voting to recall Newsom will be asked to name the person they'd like to see replace him, with the candidate that gets the most names becoming the next governor if Newsom does get ousted.
Listening to Bach or Beethoven could leave you reaching for the biscuit tin  but turning down the burgers, a study suggests.

Nearly 800 participants listened to 20 tracks from four genres of music  classical, jazz, hip-hop and rock/metal. After hearing each song, they were asked to rate on a scale their intention to eat 16 food items and their emotional state during the track.

They felt calmer when listening to classical music and preferred sweet foods, researchers led by Miyagi University in Japan found.

The likes of Elgar also appeared to turn people off savoury junk food such as burgers and chips.

Listening to Bach or Beethoven could leave you reaching for the biscuit tin  but turning down the burgers, a study suggests (stock image)

Researcher Charles Spence, of Oxford University, told journal Food Quality and Preference that the link between eating types of foods and music could be explained by our emotional state because previous studies have also found that people rate sweet foods as more calming.

Peoples buying/eating intention might be increased in the affect congruent atmospherics, he said.

The researchers, led by Miyagi University in Japan, added: Indulgent savoury foods were least preferred when listening to classical music, compared to the other genres, said the researchers.

For their study, nearly 800 participants listened to 20 different tracks from four genres of music.

Participants felt calmer when listening to classical music and preferred sweet foods, researchers led by Miyagi University in Japan found (stock image)

Classical soundtracks included Elgars Salut damour and Bachs Air on the G String, while jazz songs included Dave Brubecks Take Five and Miles Daviss Walkin.

For the hip-hop genre, it was tunes such as California Love by 2Pac and Dr Dre, and Thrift Shop by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis.

The rock/metal section, meanwhile, comprised tracks such as Iron Maidens The Trooper and Metallicas Master of Puppets.

Previous research by Texas Tech University found that people bought more expensive wine when classical music was played in a store, compared to when Top 40 chart tracks were on.

Another study, by Karlstad University in Sweden, found classical background music in a clothes shop prompted people to buy more expensive clothes.
Lawyers for the founders of classifieds site Backpage.com told jurors Wednesday that the ads published by their clients were controversial but protected by the First Amendment, after prosecutors said they knowingly ran ads for prostitution.

Attorneys for Michael Lacey and James Larkin said in opening statements at a trial in Phoenix, Arizona, that the site ran legally allowable ads for escort services, and but didn't publish ads for sex.

Backpage.com was seized and shut down by federal agents in 2018, who said at the time that the site was 'the Internets leading forum for prostitution ads, including ads depicting the prostitution of children', and slammed it as 'a platform for human traffickers.'

Lacey and Larkin argue that their website was a utopia for free expression, and a place where 'unpopular' speech was free to flourish and thrive.

'The Backpage trial is about the First Amendment, even though the government doesn't want it to be,' Paul Cambria, one of the lawyers representing Lacey, told the Buffalo News.

'This case has the potential to be very damaging to newspapers and other organizations that sell want ads.'

In all, six former Backpage operators have pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating prostitution. Of the six, Lacey, Larkin and two others have also pleaded not guilty to money laundering charges.

Former Backpage.com owners James Larkin and Michael Lacey - pictured here addressing the Senate on Capitol Hill in Washington in 2017 - appeared in court Wednesday attesting that the ads published on their site were controversial but protected by the constitution

The classifieds site - known for its ads for 'adult services' - was seized by the U.S. government in April of 2018, 'as part of an enforcement action'

The six are accused of giving free ads to prostitutes and cultivating arrangements with others who worked in the sex trade to get them to post ads with the company.

The site's marketing director, however, has already pleaded guilty to conspiring to facilitate prostitution and acknowledged he participated in a scheme to give free ads to prostitutes to win over their business.

Additionally, the former CEO of the company, Carl Ferrer, pleaded guilty to a separate federal conspiracy case in Arizona, and to state money laundering charges in California.

Last week, a prosecutor told jurors that the majority of the sites revenue came from prostitution ads but the founders and operators of Backpage tried to conceal it.

The prosecutor said the site hired content moderators whose job was not to remove prostitution ads but to edit them so they werent so blatant. The prosecutor also said the website developed a partnership with a website where customers wrote reviews of prostitutes, which drove significant traffic to Backpage.

While prosecutors say the site published many ads that depicted children who were victims of sex trafficking, no one in the federal case in Arizona is charged with sex trafficking or child sex trafficking.

On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Susan Brnovich denied a request for a mistrial made by defense lawyers, who argued a prosecutor's repeated references to sex trafficking during opening statements were inflammatory.

The defense argues that the site beefed up its staff and methods for spotting illegal ads - and even helped authorities in investigating sexual trafficking cases and earned compliments from law enforcement for their assistance.

During the trial, Thomas Bienert, Jr., an attorney defending Larkin, read aloud to jurors compliments that law enforcement agencies gave to Backpage for their cooperation in sex trafficking investigations.

Bienert went so far as to call the prosecution 'deceptive,' arguing that the entire basis for their argument stems from 'something that doesn't exist.'

The defense went on to add, in response to prosecutors' opening statements, that 'the government's opening argument was a parade of horribles about human trafficking destroying the lives of trafficked women and children, with barely any mention of charged counts and zero linkage of any Defendant to any charged count.'

'The opening offended the law, ignored indisputable facts, and consisted of inflammatory, unproven, and unprovable assertions that fail in any event to address what the government must prove to convict any defendant.'

Bienert also argued that the operators of Backpage had reason to think they were operating legally, saying judges who presided in now-dismissed lawsuits over Backpage ads found that its adult services ads were protected by the First Amendment.

Larkin (left) and Lacey (right) are facing federal charges of facilitating prostitution and money laundering in what authorities say was a scheme to knowingly run ads for sexual services. They are pictured in 2017

'Backpage was doing everything they could to help the police,' added Paul Cambria, one of the attorneys representing Lacey.

Lacey, in addition to being a co-founder of Backpage.com, is an award-winning investigative journalist who formerly owned and edited the Village Voice newspaper in New York City.

Larkin, also veteran journalist, founded the Phoenix New Times along with Lacey, and also held ownership interests in number of other weekly publications, including The Voice.

'Some people might not like the material published on Backpage, but the ads were still legal,' Bienert added. 'Controversial doesnt equal illegal.'

Backpage has faced legal action before over adverts for prostitutes, some of which are alleged sex trafficking victims.

In October of 2016, Texas and California police raided the website's headquarters in Dallas and charged Larkin and Lacey with 'pimping' and 'pimping conspiracy,' reported The Daily Beast.

But the charges were dismissed by a Superior Court judge, citing laws that provide immunity for website platforms in regards to content posted by users.

Later that same year, then-California Attorney General Kamala Harris also filed charges against the two Backpage founders - but they were also dismissed.

The sole legal challenge against the site to not get tossed was a suit in 2012. Three unnamed women in Washington state, aged 15 to 17, claimed they were trafficked using Backpage when they were as young as 13 years old.

The state ruled that the case could go forward, after reaching its Supreme Court, and Backpage settled confidentially several years later, in 2017, 'on mutually agreeable terms,' one of the plaintiff's attorneys said at the time.

With that said, the founders managed to - albeit unwittingly - avoid criminal prosecution, thanks in part to their cooperation with authorities.

In all, six former Backpage operators have pleaded not guilty to charges of facilitating prostitution. Of the six, Larkin (left), Lacey (right) and two others have also pleaded not guilty to money laundering charges. The pair are pictured at a Senate hearing in 2017

Backpage was founded in 2004, and operated unhindered by the federal government until its seizure by the FBI in April 2018, 'as part of an enforcement action.'

Authorities attest that the once-popular site generated $500 million in prostitution-related revenue in its 14-year run.

The site is currently inaccessible.

When the site was shut down by federal agents in 2018, FBI Director Wray said: 'This website will no longer serve as a platform for human traffickers to thrive, and those who were complicit in its use to exploit human beings for monetary gain will be held accountable for their heinous actions.

'Whether on the street or on the Internet, sex trafficking will not be tolerated. Together with our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to vigorously combat this activity and protect those who are victimized.'

Cambria, a criminal defense attorney who also specializes in First Amendment cases, said he expects the trial to last 'several months.'
It took her 16 years to publish a second novel following her bestselling debut after she fell victim to chronic fatigue syndrome.

But last night Susanna Clarke won the 30,000 Women's Prize for Fiction for her latest work, Piranesi.

It was published last year and is around 250 pages, compared with the 800 pages of 2004's Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell.

Piranesi deliberately has few characters and required little research, making it a more manageable endeavour for the English author, 61.

Susanna Clarke (pictured) won the 30,000 Women's Prize for Fiction for her latest work, Piranesi. It was published last year and is around 250 pages

A gothic fantasy about a man trapped in an imaginary prison, it 'tells us something profound about what it is to be human', chairman of judges Bernardine Evaristo said at a ceremony last night.

She added: 'Susanna Clarke has given us a truly original, unexpected flight of fancy which melds genres and challenges preconceptions about what books should be. She has created a world beyond our wildest imagination.'

Miss Clarke said: 'It is the book that I never thought I'd get to write. I never thought I'd be well enough so this feels doubly extraordinary and I'm doubly honoured to be here.'

Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, which sold four million copies, is an alternative history of England in which magic exists. It was turned into a BBC1 series in 2015.

This year's judging panel included Booker Prize winner and chairwoman of judges Ms Evaristo, as well as podcaster and journalist Elizabeth Day, radio host Vick Hope, print columnist Nesrine Malik and presenter Sarah-Jane Mee.

Clarke's winning novel, published by Bloomsbury in September 2020, comprises a series of journal entries from Piranesi, the titular character who lives a near-solitary existence in his marble labyrinth of a home, where he tracks the goings-on of the 'House'.

A gothic fantasy about a man trapped in an imaginary prison, it 'tells us something profound about what it is to be human', chairman of judges Bernardine Evaristo (pictured) said

Now in its 26th year, the Women's Prize for Fiction is open to original fiction written in English by women from anywhere in the world.

Other titles vying for the prize included The Vanishing Half, by US writer Brit Bennett, which follows twin sisters who grow up in a black community but live separate lives as adults, with one hiding their racial identity.

Also shortlisted was Cherie Jones for How The One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House; Claire Fuller's novel Unsettled Ground; Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi; and Patricia Lockwood's No One Is Talking About This.

Clarke was announced the winner at a ceremony held in central London, and takes home a 30,000 prize endowed by an anonymous donor and the Bessie, a limited edition bronze figure created by Grizel Niven.

Last year's winner was Maggie O'Farrell for her eighth novel Hamnet.
A member of a scandal-hit legal dynasty has blasted his brother's alleged drug addiction and $1m misuse of work funds as his sibling checked into rehab after being shot following the murders of his wife and alleged killer son.

Randy Murdaugh has released a statement claiming he was 'shocked' by claims of his brother Alex Murdaugh's drug addiction and blasted him over allegations he stole money from his law firm.

'I was shocked, just as the rest of my PMPED family, to learn of my brother, Alexs, drug addiction and stealing of money. I love my law firm family and also love Alex as my brother,' Randy Murdaugh wrote in the statement released Wednesday.

'While I will support him in his recovery, I do not support, condone, or excuse his conduct in stealing by manipulating his most trusted relationships.'

He added: 'I will continue to pursue my clients interests with the highest degree of honest and integrity, as I always have.'

Law firm Peters Murdaugh Parker Eltzroth and Detrick (PMPED) has reported Alex Murdaugh to the police for his alleged misappropriation of more than $1million in company money.

Murdaugh has since checked into rehab for a suspected opioid addiction. He was shot in the head while changing the tire of his Mercedes SUV in Hampton County, South Carolina, on Saturday and suffered superficial wounds.

In June, Murdaugh's son Paul, 22, and wife Maggie, 52, were found shot dead at the family's hunting lodge in June. No-one has been arrested over the killings, and no motive has been shared.

Paul was awaiting trial for killing a woman, 19, after crashing his boat while drunk and had also been tied to the death of a gay teenager found dead in the middle of the road.

Randy Murdaugh spoke to Good Morning America in June after his brother's wife and son were shot dead setting off a puzzling sting of events involving the South Carolina family dynasty.

'I see words like dynasty used and power and I don't know exactly how people use those words, but we're just regular people and we're hurting just like they would be hurting,' Randy Murdaugh told Good Morning America in June.

'I can't imagine the horror that's my brother is experiencing.'

Randy Murdaugh, left, has released a statement claiming he was 'shocked' by claims of his brother Alex Murdaugh's (not pictured) drug addiction and blasted him over allegations he stole money from his law firm.

Alex Murdaugh, right, allegedly checked into rehab for drug addiction months after his wife and son were shot dead in June, while facing claims he stole money from his family's law firm

Alex Murdaugh stepped down from PMPED in Hampton, South Carolina, on Friday after being urged to do so by the firm's bosses. The firm's website now includes a messaging noting that it 'is temporarily unavailable.'

Preview text still available after a Google search reveals Randy's position as an attorney at the firm too.

Details of the alleged fraud have not yet been made public, but the findings of a forensic accounting team hired by the law firm reportedly discovered the misuse of funds amounts to millions of dollars being squandered.

The findings led the law firm, which was founded by the Murdaugh brothers' great-grandfather more than 100 years ago, to file an official police report.

'It is a ton of money. It is over $1 million,' a legal source told The Raleigh Observer.

Meanwhile, Murdaugh's attorney Jim Griffin confirmed Monday his client was seeking treatment for substance abuse, while law enforcement sources claimed that the disgraced legal heir is addicted to oxycodone.

Alex Murdaugh is in rehab after resigning from his law firm on Friday amid claims he misappropriated millions of dollars

A statement released by the law firm on Monday night said the matter of the 'misappropriated' funds had been referred to law enforcement and the South Carolina Bar.

'A forensic accounting firm will be retained to conduct a thorough investigation,' said the statement, which invited clients with questions to contact the law firm.

In response to further questions, PMPED attorney Danny Henderson said the firm would not be releasing any further statements, choosing instead to keep the details of the forensic accounting firm's findings under wraps.

The day after resigning, Murdaugh, 53, called 911 claiming he had been shot in the head while changing a tire outside his home.

He said it was a drive-by shooting and that he didn't get a glimpse of the assailant, but that it was likely to do with the murders of his wife and son which occurred three months ago and remain unsolved.

Murdaugh was taken to the hospital where he was treated for a 'superficial' wound to the head.

He was released on Monday, spoke to police again about what he claims happened to him and what the murders of his wife and son, and then checked himself into rehab.

It's unclear what he is seeking treatment for or what kind of facility he is in, though law enforcement believe Murdaugh is battling an oxycodone addiction.

Murdaugh released a statement through his attorney Rick Harpootlian, who is also a State Senator, saying he was fighting 'a long battle that has been exacerbated these murders.'

He did not deny the accusations, saying: 'I have made a lot of decisions that I truly regret.'

The law firm issued a statement on Monday night stating: '[Murdaugh] is no longer associated with PMPED in any manner.

'His resignation came after the discovery by PMPED that Alex misappropriated funds in violation of PMPED standards and policies.

'A forensic accounting firm will be retained to conduct a thorough investigation. This is disappointing news for all of us. Rest assured that our firm will deal with this in a straightforward manner.'

It adds to the mystery that has encircled the family since June, when he called 911 claiming he'd returned home to find his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul, shot dead, their bodies dumped by the dog kennels on their sprawling South Carolina estate.

No one has been arrested for those deaths and police have never named any suspects.

Alex Murdagh is pictured, main, with his wife Maggie and son Paul (far left) who were shot dead in an unsolved double murder in June. Murdaugh claims he was shot in the head on Saturday night but survived. It's unclear where his other son, Buster (right) is

The law firm that Murdaugh's family founded has disabled its website on Tuesday after his resignation

They are also yet to establish a motive, but Paul was awaiting trial for the 2019 boating death of Mallory Beach, who died after being thrown from the boat he was drunk driving.

He had also been tied to the death of his housekeeper (who fell down the stairs in 2018) and the unsolved 2015 death of Stephen Smith, whose mother believes was beaten to death in a hate crime because he was gay.

The murders of my wife and son have caused an incredibly difficult time in my life. I have made a lot of decisions that I truly regret. I'm resigning from my law firm and entering rehab after a long battle that has been exacerbated these murders. I am immensely sorry to everyone I've hurt including my family, friends and colleagues. I ask for prayers as I rehabilitate myself and my relationships.' Alex Murdaugh on Monday night

Three days after their deaths, Murdaugh's 81-year-old father Randolph Murdaugh III died 'peacefully' at his home.

Murdaugh released a statement through his attorney, Dick Harpootlian, on Monday morning saying that he was leaving his law firm and entering rehab.

'The murders of my wife and son have caused an incredibly difficult time in my life,' the statement read.

'I have made a lot of decisions that I truly regret.

'I'm resigning from my law firm and entering rehab after a long battle that has been exacerbated these murders.

'I am immensely sorry to everyone I've hurt including my family, friends and colleagues.

'I ask for prayers as I rehabilitate myself and my relationships.'

In a statement to The New York Times, the firm said that it had hired a forensic accounting firm to investigate.

The company also said it had informed the police and the South Carolina Bar, although no arrests have been made.

A source told the paper that the missing cash was in the millions. Further details on an exact amount, how it had gone missing and how its disappearance was uncovered have yet to be shared.

The resignation and allegations that millions were misappropriated provides yet another astonishing twist in a story that has baffled South Carolina, and drawn national attention.

Murdaugh, 53, told police on Saturday that was shot by a gunman in a truck that drove past him as he changed a tire - and then made a U-turn.

TIMELINE OF MURDAUGH FAMILY MURDERS, DEATHS, LAWSUITS AND ARRESTS Cops investigating the double murder have also reopened the case into a 2015 hit-and-run of teen Stephen Smith 2015: Teenager Stephen Smith dies Smith was found on the side of the road. Police officially rule his death a hit-and-run but he had suffered blunt force trauma to the head His mother has since shared her belief that she thinks he was killed in a hate-crime because he was gay Case notes obtained by DailyMail.com revealed Paul's older brother Buster was named multiple times in the investigation. Police wanted to know more about his relationship with Stephen Stephen's mother said he had been having a 'fling' 2018: Murdaugh family housekeeper Gloria Satterfield dies Murdaugh family housekeeper Gloria Sattlerfield dies Gloria died after 'falling' down the stairs in the family house The family gave her family $500.000 in a wrongful death settlement but it's unclear why her death was ruled to be their fault. Alex Murdaugh was listed as the defendant in the lawsuit. Satterfield was only 57 when she died. She left behind a husband and children. 2019: Mallory Beach dies being thrown from boat driven by Paul Murdaugh Mallory Beach, 19, died in February 2019 Paul was charged afterwards because he'd been drinking and was behaving 'belligerently' that night. He had been released on bond. Other kids were on the boat but were unharmed. One testified that they were scared to speak about the Murdaugh family because they knew how to 'cover things up'. That boy named Stephen Smith and the housekeeper, and claimed Paul pushed her June 7 2021: Paul and Maggie are murdered The mom and son were found shot dead at the family home in Hampton, South Carolina. Alex Murdaugh is pictured with his son Paul and wife Maggie. Paul and Maggie were shot dead on June 7 on the family estate. No arrests have been made so far in their killings Alex called 911 shortly after 10pm claiming he'd found them. They had only been dead for an hour at most Alex's father Randolph Murdaugh III died 'peacefully' at home three days after Maggie and Paul were found shot dead June 10 2021: Alex's 81-year-old father Randolph Murdaugh III dies 'naturally' and 'peacefully' at home September 3: Alex resigns from his lawfirm amid claims he misused funds The firm has hired a forensic investigator to go through the accounts September 4: Alex calls 911 claiming he's been shot in the head in a drive-by. He only had 'surface' wounds and was also able to call his brother September 6: Alex releases a statement confirming his resignation from the firm and announcing he has entered rehab Says 'I'm resigning from my law firm and entering rehab after a long battle that has been exacerbated these murders.' Advertisement

Authorities have released few details about the incident which comes three months after the still-unsolved double murder of Murdaugh's wife, Maggie, and son Paul.

He called 911 at around 1:30pm EST Saturday, Griffin said on Sunday, after Murdaugh was shot by a passing truck in Hampton County, South Carolina.

Around 45 minutes after making that call, Murdaugh then phoned his brother Randy.

Randy is said to have told Griffin that the truck initially passed by Alex Murdaugh without incident, as he changed the tire of his black Mercedes-Benz SUV on Salkehatchie Road.

Murdaugh's attorney is Dick Harpootlian, who is a State Senator in South Carolina

But the driver of the truck then turned around and drove toward Murdaugh.

Moments later, the gunman inside the truck opened fire.

But no arrests have been made for either the alleged shooting against him or the murders of Maggie and Paul.

Paul himself had been facing trial for the boating death of a teenage girl who drowned after being thrown from the boat he was driving in February 2019.

The girl's family issued a statement not long after Paul's murder to insist they had nothing to do with it.

The statement added: 'We expect Alex to recover and ask for your privacy while he recovers.'

Griffin told the Island Packet the widower had been on his way to Charleston hours before the shooting, but had 'car trouble', and stopped.

Griffin said Murdaugh's brother, Randy, told him what had happened.

Three days after Paul and Maggie were found dead, Alex's father, Randolph Murdaugh III, died.

He was the third generation to serve as 14th Circuit Solicitor, having held the position from 1985 to 2005.

Paul, 22, and Maggie, 52, were found dead from multiple gunshot wounds just after 10pm on June 7. Two different guns were used in the shootings.

The murders remain a mystery with no arrests, suspects or persons of interest named by authorities - and no one also formally ruled out of the investigation.

The case has fueled speculation nationwide as Paul, a student at the University of South Carolina, has been linked to at least two other mysterious deaths in the area.

Alex Murdaugh's Mercedes-Benz SUV, which the 53-year-old was changing a tire on when a passenger in a passing truck shot him in the head, causing 'superficial head wounds'

Alex's son Paul, 22, (left) and wife Maggie, 52, (right) were found dead from multiple gunshot wounds on June 7 at the family hunting lodge

The bodies were said to be found near a dog kennel on the family's property on June 7

Paul was awaiting trial on charges relating to the 2019 boat crash death 19-year-old woman Mallory Beach, who was thrown from the boat when Paul was drunkenly behind the controls.

He was also vaguely linked to the 2015 death of a teenager Stephen Smith whose body was found by the side of the road with severe wounds to the head. His mother has long-believed her son was murdered in a hate crime because he was gay, and that he'd been having a 'fling' with another teen that may have had something to do with it.

After Mallory's death in 2019, some claimed that Paul may have had something to do with Smith's death, though the claims never proved to be more than local rumors.

The Murdaughs' housekeeper, Gloria Sattlefield, also died in a 'trip and fall' accident in 2018 which resulted in the family settling a wrongful death lawsuit.

The time of death was between 9pm and 9.30pm.

Murdaugh was interviewed by officers investigating his wife and son's death on June 10, three days after the murders, and volunteered a sample of DNA to investigators.

Sources close to him have said he has a 'cast iron alibi' for the night of the killings.

A recording of the call he placed to 911 revealed how he sobbed to operators, pleading 'my wife and child have been shot badly'.

He said neither Paul nor wife Maggie were breathing when he found them by the dog kennels of their estate, and that he had not seen anyone else in the area or noticed anything out of place.

On the night of the killings, police impounded a 2021 Chevrolet Suburban owned by Murdaugh's law firm.

Stephen Smith, 19, was found dead in July 2015 in the middle of Sandy Run Road around 15 miles from the Murdaugh family's hunting lodge.

DailyMail.com revealed that - despite investigators on the scene being convinced of foul play and finding no evidence of any vehicle involvement - the death was written off as a hit-and-run.

Police said he was struck by a vehicle while walking on a two-lane road after his car ran out of gas.

Stephen's mother has always believed it was a hate crime, and that her son was beaten to death, rather than being struck by a vehicle, and his murder covered up.

DailyMail.com also revealed that investigators aggressively pursued tips questioning the dead boy's 'relationship' with Paul's older brother Richard 'Buster' Murdaugh, whose name came up numerous times in case-notes we obtained.

A survivor of the 2019 boat crash suggested in a deposition, unveiled in court last month, that Paul may have been involved in Smith's death.

Connor Cook said in January 2020 he had lied about the night of the boat accident out of fear of what the Murdaughs would do, claiming they had gotten away with crimes in the past.

'Anything they get in, they get out of. I've always been told that,' Cook said in the deposition.

'One was said that Paul [Murdaugh] had pushed his housemaid down the stairs, and she died, and nothing ever happened.

'And another one, there was something that Paul was supposedly involved with a guy, got found beat up in the middle of the road, that they got out of.'

In 2018, Alex Murdaugh settled a wrongful death claim in the 'trip and fall' death of their 57-year-old housekeeper Gloria Satterfield.

Her family won $500,000.
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Another 50 migrants including women and young children have been intercepted trying to cross the Channel today after the French branded Home Secretary Priti Patel a 'clown' for threatening to turn the boats round and send them back to Europe.

Border Force cutter Vigilant docked at Dover Marina at around 3.30pm, where the arrivals disembarked. Women and children, including one mother wearing a red headscarf accompanied by three young boys, were escorted up the gangway for processing.

Another boat carried at least 38 men to shore, with some wearing Adidas tracksuit jackets with jeans and carrying their possessions in a rucksack. One male migrant was seen wearing a trendy black cap with the word 'LA' emblazoned on it.

Border Force cutter Seeker docked shortly afterwards but it is unclear whether any migrants were on board. The Home Office is yet to confirm exactly how many migrants were detained today.

Downing Street lined up behind Ms Patel's threats to 'push back' migrant boats, and insisted Britons expect action amid mounting fury at France's lacklustre efforts to curb the problem despite being handed millions by UK taxpayers to do so.

French politicians branded the Home Secretary a 'clown', while Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin claimed any action to send migrant boats back would be illegal. He said: 'France will not accept any practice that goes against maritime law, and will not accept any financial blackmail'.

The former head of the Royal Navy, Lord West, jibed that the French operation was being run by Inspector Clouseau, the notoriously hapless detective from the 1960s Pink Panther film series played by English actor Peter Sellers.

Ms Patel also came under fire from experts who said her latest plan is 'not going to happen' because overloaded dinghies might sink and France would need to cooperate. Lucy Moreton, professional officer at the Immigration Services Union, said she would be surprised if the 'pushback' tactic is used 'even once' because the boats are 'vulnerable'.

And Tory MP Tim Loughton, a member of the Home Affairs Select Committee, said it was 'not going to happen' as the vessels would capsize and migrants might drown.

Scroll down for video.

Another 50 migrants including women and young children have been intercepted trying to cross the Channel today

Border Force cutter Vigilant docked at Dover Marina at around 3.30pm, where the arrivals disembarked

Women and children, including one mother wearing a red headscarf accompanied by three young boys, were escorted up the gangway for processing

Border Force cutter Seeker docked shortly afterwards but it is unclear whether any migrants were on board

The Home Office is yet to confirm exactly how many migrants were detained today

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought ashore from the local lifeboat at Dover in Kent today

Priti Patel holding talks with French counterpart Gerald Darmanin last night. She has sanctioned new 'pushback' tactics to stop migrant boats in the Channel and turn them back to France amid crunch talks over crossings

A group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, by Border Force staff today

The former head of the Royal Navy, Lord West, jibed that the operation was being run by Inspector Clouseau, the notoriously hapless detective played by Peter Sellers

'Pushback' tactic could risk lives and be illegal, warn campaigners Turning back boats in the Channel could risk the lives of migrants, campaigners warned as the legality of the tactic was called into question. The British Red Cross warned that the policy would 'detract' from finding solutions that would give people alternatives to making the dangerous crossing through busy shipping lanes. Steve Valdez-Symonds, Amnesty International UK's refugee and migrant rights director, said: 'The Government's pushback plan is senseless, dangerous and almost certainly unlawful. 'Intercepting vessels in the Channel is incredibly high risk and to push people back will endanger their lives, which is totally at odds with the legal duty of rescue at sea. 'People have every right to seek asylum in the UK, and they only make dangerous journeys and rely on smugglers because there are no safe alternatives made available to them.' Lord West, who was First Sea Lord and Chief of the Naval Staff from 2002 to 2006 and later a security minister under Labour, said the whole policy is 'highly problematic'. Meanwhile, legal figures questioned whether turning back boats would be lawful, amid suggestions that Government officials have been ordered to rewrite maritime laws so the tactic can be used. James M Turner QC, a barrister and arbitrator specialising in cross-border commercial and shipping disputes, said on Twitter that turnbacks are 'highly unlikely to be lawful (even if it were practicable and safe)', In an earlier post, having discussed the various laws at play when considering maritime incidents and asylum seekers at sea, he said: 'Turning back migrant boats in the middle of the Channel would not therefore be lawful under international law. It would also potentially endanger lives.' Human rights barrister Adam Wagner tweeted: 'The Home Office has apparently received legal advice that it would be lawful to 'push back' some refugee boats. Would be very interested to see that advice (which I bet is so heavily hedged it's practically growing leaves).' Advertisement

As the wrangling continues over how to tackle the volume of desperate people trying to get to the UK, it has also emerged that Britain has offered use of a plane to help monitor the coast, but was seemingly snubbed. Others have complained that the French are refusing to use drones to monitor when boats are setting off from their coast.

Some 14,000 migrants are now thought to have arrived in Britain via the Channel this year - with demands for Paris to 'step up to the plate' and prevent the crossings.

Yesterday saw UK authorities rescue or intercept 301 people with the French reporting they had stopped 302 people reaching Britain, the Home Office said.

The previous day, 456 were rescued by Britain, and 326 by France.

Grilled on the situation at PMQs yesterday Boris Johnson admitted that the government is reliant on the French, but insisted ministers will use 'every possible tactic' to ease the problems.

Maritime law dictates that safety must be paramount when operating at sea.

But ministers appear confident that this principle can be interpreted to allow Channel crossings to be turned around in certain circumstances.

Members of Border Force are being given special training to handle migrant boats, but would only deploy the 'pushback' tactics when it was deemed practical and safe to do so.

Reports suggested such operations are likely to be restricted to sturdier, bigger migrant boats and only used in 'very limited circumstances'.

Ms Moreton told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'In practical terms, if this happens even once, I would be surprised.

'There are understandably a lot of constraints around it and you cannot do this with a vessel that is in any way vulnerable and more importantly you need the consent of the French to do it.

'Because when you turn the vessel back toward France, when it is across the median line it has to be intercepted and rescued by the French and it appears the French will simply not engage with this, in which case it's  if you excuse the pun  dead in the water.'

Mr Loughton, a member of the home affairs select committee, said he supported the principle but it was 'not going to happen'.

He said: 'It sounds good. But I'm afraid in practice it's just not going to happen. These are flimsy boats coming over. Even those that are tougher are completely weighed down.

'Any boat coming up alongside at speed would capsize most of these boats anyway and then we're looking at people getting into trouble in the water and drowning  and then we'll get blamed for that. It sounds good pushing them back but it's not going to work in practice.'

Lord West, who was first sea lord and chief of the naval staff from 2002 to 2006 and later a security minister under Labour, said the whole policy was 'highly problematic'.

He told the BBC's World At One programme: 'I can understand the Home Secretary and people's annoyance with what's going on.

'I mean, one has to sort of, I have to say rather jokingly, that there must be a sort of Inspector Clouseau running this operation in France that they've had all this time and lots of extra people, and in fact the number of people coming across has grown and grown and grown.

'So I can understand people's annoyance. But I'm afraid the only way to actually change this is if we get an agreement with France, for example, that if we pick people up to rescue them in the Channel, that we're allowed to steam back into Calais or Dunkirk, and land them back in France.'

Bill could give Border Force powers to turn back boats - but only with permission Asylum reforms will look to give Border Force powers to turn migrant boats away at sea. Under the Nationality and Borders Bill, officers would get the power to intervene at sea to tackle people-smugglers and turn migrant boats away from the UK. However, they would need the agreement of other states, such as France, to drive them back into foreign waters. The legislation would give immigration or enforcement officers specific 'maritime powers' over ships and other boats or vessels in 'United Kingdom waters, foreign waters or international waters' to 'prevent, detect, investigate or prosecute offences', the document said. They could be given the power to 'stop, board, divert and detain', including requiring the ship to 'leave United Kingdom waters'. But the Bill makes clear this could take place 'only if the state, or the relevant territory' is willing to receive the ship. It also suggests written notice must be given to the 'master of any ship detained', ie the captain or person navigating the vessel  which has prompted questions on how this could work in practice. Officers will be allowed to use 'reasonable force, if necessary' and take 'equipment or materials'  but it is not yet clear what this could entail. The stricter rules are part of Home Secretary Priti Patel's pledge to fix the UK's 'broken asylum system' and have been hailed by the Government as 'fundamental reforms' under a 'landmark' Bill as part of its 'fair but firm' plan for immigration first published in March. Advertisement

He added that 'the French at the moment are not being easy about this', and said: 'This is highly dangerous. People forget how dangerous the sea is and it's flat, calm and people have been coming across but it doesn't take much suddenly for people to go into the water and drown.

'And when you start playing games about pushing ships back and pushing boats back, that is, as I say, it's highly problematic. Very, very difficult to do.'

The PM's spokesman denied that the government was engaging in 'financial blackmail', pointing out that 'significant sums of money' had been provided to help France tackle the issues.

'We are content that the tactics that our Border Force staff, our trained Border Force staff, are using are safe and legal,' the spokesman added.

Pushed on whether there has been a change of policy in how to approach the situation, he said: 'I think you're referring to tactical, operational approaches used by Border Force. It's right that our Border Force has the right range of tactics to address this problem. They we will make sure it is tested, that (it) is carried out by trained Border Force staff.'

Downing Street said the Government was looking at a 'range of safe and legal options' to deal with migrant Channel crossings.

Asked whether the Prime Minister had approved reported plans to turn around boats headed for the UK and send them back to France, the PM's official spokesman said: 'Without getting into operational matters, as part of our ongoing response we continue to evaluate and test a range of safe and legal options to find ways of stopping small boats making this dangerous and unnecessary journey.'

He added: 'I think Border Force have a range of safe and legal options available to them to deploy, I'm not going to comment on operational tactics in more detail.'

He said that the UK's activities 'comply with international and domestic law'.

As the temperature rose again, Calais MP Pierre-Henri Dumont, of the opposition Republicans Party, said the UK's approach was 'unworthy'.

'Brexit means leaving the European Union, not leaving the international community,' he said.

'By flouting the international law of the sea, by preventing migrants from applying for asylum, by taking the risk of drowning, the United Kingdom is de facto breaking the rules commonly accepted by all [EU] member countries.

'I call on the British government to come to its senses and fundamentally change its domestic law and its labour market - which encourage illegal immigration - before trying to trample on international law.'

A senior member of President Emmanuel Macron's LREM party, who asked not to be named, said Ms Patel was 'increasingly seen as a clown in France'.

He said: 'Madame Patel doesn't know what she's talking about. She just seems to grab at mad and dangerous ideas without displaying any knowledge of the law or international diplomacy.'

Ms Patel and Mr Darmanin, held discussions on crossings at Lancaster House in London, in the wake of hundreds of migrants being brought ashore in Kent over the past few days.

Government sources said the pair had a 'constructive' meeting in which Ms Patel made clear tackling the number of people making their way from France to the UK on small boats was her 'number one priority'.

But the French Government said the turnaround tactics would have 'a negative impact on our co-operation'.

A group of migrants is ferried to shore by Border Force staff at Dover in Kent today

Another 50 migrants are estimated to have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel today

A number of children were among the groups that were brought to safety on the British coast today

Pictured: A graph showing the number of migrants crossing the Channel on small boats since 2019. The figure has increased each year

In a letter sent on Monday before the meeting, Mr Darmanin rejected a UK request to set up a joint command centre in northern France, with police and border force officers from both countries patrolling the coastline and the Channel.

He said he had 'taken note' of the offer of a British plane to monitor the coastline, but suggested it would be up to the EU's Frontex border agency.

And on the issue of 'pushback' tactics, the letter said: 'The French position on intervention at sea remains unchanged. Safeguarding human lives at sea takes priority over considerations of nationality, status and migratory policy, out of strict respect for the international maritime law governing search and rescue at sea.

'With regard to traffic and conditions for crossing the Channel, France has no other solution than to intervene most often on the basis of the provisions in international law governing search and rescue at sea (SAR). The use of maritime refoulements to French territorial waters would risk having a negative impact on our cooperation.'

Health minister Helen Whately insisted this morning that the focus was still on discouraging migrants from attempting the journey, rather than turning them back en route.

Asked repeatedly whether the Government was looking push boats back to France, she said: 'The Government looks at all the options, but a really important thing, of course, is you wouldn't want to put people in any greater danger, they're taking a dangerous journey as it is, and what we want to do is actually deter them from starting that journey in the first place.'

The row emerged just days after Ms Patel told MPs she is prepared to withhold millions of pounds of cash promised to France to help step up patrols unless an improvement in the number of migrants intercepted by French authorities is seen.

A Government source said: 'The Home Secretary was clear with the French interior minister that the British public expect to see results.'

Border Force cutter Vigilant docked at Dover Marina around 3.30pm this afternoon where the first arrivals of the day disembarked.

Woman and children were among those escorted up the gangway for processing.

One mum wearing a red headscarf was joined by three young boys - the eldest giving a thumbs up to someone on the deck - and an elderly woman.

Another woman was followed by a little girl with her hair tied in a white scrunchie. They were both draped in light blue blankets for warmth over their orange life jackets.

Four more women disembarked the boat which also carried at least 38 men to shore.

Some wore Adidas tracksuit jackets with jeans and carried their possessions in a rucksack while another wore a trendy black cap with 'LA' emblazoned.

Border Force cutter Seeker docked shortly afterwards but it is unclear whether any migrants were on board.

According to the Home Office, 785 migrants arrived in the UK on Monday after making the journey from France in small boats, with several young children and a baby among them.

This is the second highest daily total of the year, following the single-day record of 828 people set last month.

The crossings have continued during the better weather conditions this week, with boats arriving at Dover and others being towed on to beaches along the south coast.

Earlier this year, the UK and France announced an agreement to more than double the number of police patrolling French beaches.

It was the second pledge of its kind in a year, in a bid to stop small boats from leaving France.

As part of the deal, the Government pledged to give France 54million to support its efforts to stop small boat crossings.

Charities urged the Home Office to take a 'more humane and responsible approach' towards asylum seekers and said humanitarian visas were needed to help 'prevent the chaos of the Channel crossings'.
A popular Chinese SUV has made a prestigious shortlist of Australia's best affordable electric cars.

Carsales tested eight fully-electric cars with a 200km range on a single battery charge and considered the MG ZS EV to be a contender.

At $44,990 drive away, this SUV is Australia's cheapest all-electric car, selling for considerably less than some Korean all-electric SUVs with a $70,000 price tag.

The Chinese-built MG is even more affordable than the Nissan Leaf e+ selling for $53,190 drive away and the Hyundai IONIQ Electric Premium, which is $53,010 before on-road costs.

A popular Chinese SUV has made a prestigious shortlist of Australia's best affordable electric cars. At $44,990 drive away, the MG ZS EV is Australia's cheapest all-electric car, selling for considerably less than some Korean all-electric SUVs with a $70,000 price tag

THE ELECTRIC CAR CONTENDERS Hyundai IONIQ Electric Premium: $53,010* Hyundai Kona Electric Extended Range Highlander: $70,845 Kia Niro EV Sport: $70,990 Mazda MX-30 Electric Astina: $65,490* MG ZS EV: $44,990 MINI Cooper SE Yours: $62,825 Nissan LEAF e+: $53,190 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus: $59,900 * Plus on-road costs Advertisement

The MG ZS, available as a petrol or electric car, is also one of Australia's most popular cars, taking the ninth spot on the sales charts in August 2021 with 1,700 leaving the showroom, marking a 436 per cent surge compared with the 317 that were sold in August 2020.

But despite its affordable price tag, Carsales awarded its Best Electric Car for 2021 prize to the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, selling for $59,900.

Carsales shortlisted fully-electric cars available for less than $70,000 that were capable of driving at least 200km on a single battery charge.

Editor-in-chief Mike Sinclair said the Tesla was the clear winner when assessed on safety, performance, running costs and comfort.

'Tesla is an outlier in many ways, but it's hard to argue about the effectiveness of the Model 3,' he said.

'It was pretty clear early on that it was favourite for the award.'

While the MG ZS is Australia's most popular car available with an electric version, Tesla sells more electric vehicles than all the other electric cars on the market.

But billionaire Elon Musk's company doesn't share its sales data with the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

Australians are slowly becoming more open-minded about buying an electric car as first-world nations embrace more ambitions climate change targets.

But despite its affordable price tag, Carsales awarded its Best Electric Car for 2021 prize to the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus, selling for $59,900. Editor-in-chief Mike Sinclair said the Tesla was the clear winner when assessed on safety, performance, running costs and comfort

But cost is a major issue with 52 per cent of respondents to an NRMA survey of 1,192 members citing it as an impediment in July 2021, up from 48 per cent in May 2020.

Accessibility to charging stations was a concern for 48 per cent of respondents while 41 per cent were worried about insufficient range.

The NRMA's chief executive of Membership and Motoring Emma Harrington said state and federal governments needed to spend money installing new charging stations and give tax breaks for those buying electric cars.

'The ticket price of electric vehicles compared to petrol or diesel cars and access to charging equipment continue to be the main draw-backs to electric vehicles in Australia today,' she said.

'We are now seeing charging networks being rolled out across the country and more affordable makes and models are arriving on our shores.

'In addition, incentives for consumers and businesses to purchase electric vehicles are growing.'

Fully-electric cars have a minuscule 0.5 per cent share of Australian vehicle sales, with just 526 sold in June during a month that saw 110,664 new cars find an owner (pictured is a Mazda MX-30)

The Department of Industry's Future Fuels Strategy discussion paper, released in February, recommended the federal government co-invest in charging stations with the private sector.

But it declined to endorse electric vehicle sales targets or direct financial incentives to buy an electric car.

Fully-electric cars have a minuscule 0.5 per cent share of Australian vehicle sales, with just 526 sold in June during a month that saw 110,664 new cars find an owner, Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries data showed.

But the sale figure was a vast improvement on the 176 sold in June 2020 as 110,234 cars overall were sold.
Vile bullies 'completely desecrated' the grave of a 12-year-old rape victim who took her own life after months of physical and emotional abuse, her devastated mother has revealed.

Semina Halliwell, a 'beautiful and funny' girl from Southport, died on June 12 after she was left 'traumatised' by online abuse after the sexual offence, allegedly by a boy of a similar age, in February.

In July, her mother Rachel Halliwell said she feared Semina's bullies would gatecrash the funeral, with images at the time appearing to show people making fun of her death.

Yesterday a family friend found Semina's grave had been 'completely desecrated'. Ms Halliwell said: 'It was covered in bricks and rocks and there was dog mess all over it. It was clearly done on purpose.

'Heartless disgusting vile people. There are no words to describe these evil people that could do this to a 12-year-old girl's grave.'

The grave has since been cleaned by people who knew and loved Semina. However, a vile new screenshot appears to show someone offering money to anyone who would 'trash' Semina's grave - and film it.

Semina Halliwell, a 'beautiful and funny' girl from Southport, died on June 12 after she was left 'traumatised' by online abuse after the sexual offence, allegedly by a boy of a similar age, in February

Pictured: the funeral of Semina Halliwell at St Patrick's Church

In July, her mother Rachel Halliwell said she feared Semina's bullies would gatecrash the funeral, with images seen by the Echo at the time appearing to show people making fun of her death

Ms Halliwell previously told the Liverpool Echo that Semina had reported being raped and then bullied online about her horrific ordeal.

She said what happened to the Stanley High pupil had left her 'traumatised'.

Ms Halliwell shared footage appearing to show Semina being physically attacked earlier this year. She said she believes the incidents took place in parks near their home around a month after the alleged rape.

Merseyside Police has confirmed detectives are investigating a report of rape at an address in Southport on February 25.

A force spokesman said: 'Extensive enquiries are ongoing into this allegation and other matters relating to the same alleged victim, and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.'

Semina's tragic case was raised at a parliamentary committee on June 23, when Labour MP Apsana Begum asked Education Secretary Gavin Williamson what more can be done to help protect children from sexual harassment and abuse.

The grave has since been cleaned by people who knew and loved Semina

Ms Halliwell previously told the Liverpool Echo that Semina had reported being raped and then bullied online about her horrific ordeal

Ms Begum said: 'I wanted to highlight the case of Semina who was 12 years old who disclosed that she'd been raped, and committed suicide.'

Police officers confirmed they are investigating the desecration of Semina's grave.

Community Inspector Graham Fisher said: 'The community will no doubt share our shock and revulsion that a grave could be desecrated like this.

'This is the final resting place of a beloved family member, and I can only imagine how upsetting it must have been for their loved ones to find that the grave had been treated in this way.

'While thankfully no permanent damage has been caused, it will have caused lasting distress to the family.

'I want to appeal to anyone who may have been visiting the cemetery in recent days and witnessed anything suspicious to contact us so that we can bring the perpetrators of this callous crime to justice.'

Anyone with information is asked to message @MerPolCC on Twitter or Merseyside Police Contact Centre on Facebook.

Alternatively, you can call 101 quoting reference 21000494391 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

For confidential support, call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit a local Samaritans branch. See www.samaritans.org for details.
A Treasury Department official has claimed that the top 1 percent of wage earners avoid paying $163 billion of taxes that they owe each year, while the bottom half of earners underpay by less than $36 billion.

The top 1 percent of earners, or those who have an annual income of more than $758,000, account for 28 percent of all owed but uncollected income taxes, according to the Treasury estimates.

Natasha Sarin, the Treasury' deputy assistant secretary for economic policy, made the claim in a blog post on Tuesday, arguing in favor of President Joe Biden's proposals to expand the budget and enforcement powers of the IRS.

Sarin wrote that the IRS is unable to collect 15 percent of taxes that are owed, and advocated for an additional $80 billion in IRS funding over a decade, as well as powers for new 'compliance initiatives.'

A Treasury Department official has claimed that the top 1 percent of wage earners avoid paying $163 billion of taxes. Billionaire Jeff Bezos is seen above

Natasha Sarin (above), the Treasury' deputy assistant secretary for economic policy, made the claim in a blog post on Tuesday, arguing in favor of President Joe Biden's proposals to expand the budget and enforcement powers of the IRS

A table shows the estimated amount of income tax owed but unpaid by income percentile

The Biden administration economist claimed that these changes would generate an additional $780 billion in tax revenue that would have otherwise gone uncollected over the next decade.

'This revenue will be collected in a highly progressive way, as the tax gap is more concentrated toward the top of the income distribution,' she wrote.

Citing academic estimates of unpaid taxes, Sarin said the difference between taxes that are owed and collected totals around $600 billion annually, meaning approximately $7 trillion of lost tax revenue over the next decade.

It comes as Democrats hotly debate whether and how to target the wealthiest Americans for higher taxes.

A ProPublica report in June, relying on tax filings provided by an anonymous leaker unknown to the outlet, pushed the argument for a 'wealth tax' advocated by some Democrats such as Senator Elizabeth Warren.

The report purported to show how some of the richest Americans, including Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk, and Warren Buffet, pay income taxes only on their cash income, arguing that there should be a way to tax the rising value of stocks before they are sold.

The report did not allege any wrongdoing on the part of the billionaires, but rather lamented that their net worth was not taxed in addition to their income.

Elon Musk is seen above. Some Democrats such as Senator Elizabeth Warren are pushing for a 'wealth tax'

For her part, Sarin has publicly argued against a wealth tax, saying that it would be too byzantine to assess and administer, and that it likely would not generate the tax revenue that its supporters claim.

Instead, Sarin and IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig have both advocated for cracking down on 'tax cheats' as a way to boost collection from the wealthiest Americans.

Rettig told Congress in June that the agency is 'outgunned' by increasingly sophisticated tax avoidance schemes, while years of budget cuts have left it with about 17,000 fewer revenue enforcement staff than it had a decade ago.

New sources of wealth, such as trading in cryptocurrencies, were escaping taxation, he said, as was rising foreign-sourced income and abuses of business income passed through as personal income.

He called for Congress to provide 'consistent, timely, adequate and multiyear funding.'

President Joe Biden's fiscal 2022 budget request would boost the IRS budget by about $1.3 billion, or 10.4 percent over current levels.

The proposed $13.2 billion IRS budget would include an additional $900 million for tax enforcement in fiscal 2022, which starts on Oct. 1.
A TikTok star has revealed the hilarious encounter she had with police who turned up at her home after she was wrongly accused of breaking lockdown.

Two officers knocked on the door of Sydney social media star Millie Ford this week after receiving reports she'd been outside amid the city's lockdown to film a TikTok.

Ms Ford admitted she was in tears when the police showed up, and told them all of her videos had been filmed from inside her apartment.

She asked how she could prove she hadn't broken the rules to the officers who then asked her to show them her latest TikToks from the past 24 hours - to show she'd been inside.

Embarrassingly for Ms Ford her latest video was her impersonating a teacher's strut down a school hallway.

Two officers knocked on the door of Sydney social media star Millie Ford this week after receiving reports she'd been outside amid the city's lockdown to film a TikTok

'You have to laugh like can you just picture me standing at my front door in my tracksuit crying and showing these two cops that TikTok to prove my innocence,' she said in a TikTok recapping the incident.

'Like this is wild!'

Ms Ford then reenacted herself standing at her front door sobbing as she held up her phone to show the cops her videos.

She later confirmed she wasn't given any fines and the police had been very understanding.

Ms Ford admitted she was in tears when the police showed up, and told them all of her videos had been filmed from home

Police told Ms Ford to show them her latest TikToks within the past 24 hours to prove she hadn't broken the rules which hilariously was her impersonating a teacher strutting down a school hallway

It's not illegal to be outside during the city's lockdown but Ms Ford said police had to follow up on every report.

The Sydneysider has made a name for herself on TikTok recently with her spot on impressions of what Australian schools are like.

She's amassed more than 860,000 followers for her hilarious portrayals of teachers and student cliques most Aussie children knew while growing up.

The Sydneysider has made a name for herself on TikTok recently with her spot on impressions of what Australian schools were like

Some of her most popular videos include imitating staff who wouldn't let children go to recess without collecting rubbish.

Another clip depicted an awkward encounter with a student and the school's 'popular girl' over formal dresses.

'I just find it weird because I was thinking of wearing a strapless green dress and suddenly you post about wearing one,' the supposed popular girl said.

'I'm just really weird about people copying me. So just in case I do think of wearing it do you think you could possibly return yours?'.
The heartbroken sister of a teenager who took his own life at just 17 believes the lengthy lockdown fuelled his loneliness and contributed to his suicide.

Shanayah Kennedy, 19, from the Covid-ravaged town of Dubbo in western NSW, has recounted the horrific moment she found her brother, Jye, dead in his backyard shed on August 24 - leaving her and their seven siblings devastated.

'It came out of nowhere. He just got really lonely, we couldn't see each other,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'It was definitely (related to the lockdown). He was living alone. People need to be constantly busy to keep their mind off things.'

Shanayah Kennedy (front) says her brother Jye's (back) suicide 'came out of nowhere' and is urging people to check on their loved ones during lockdown

Jye (left) and Shanayah (right) were best friends, and come from a big family in Dubbo, western NSW

Shanayah found her Jye dead in his backyard shed on August 24 after growing worried when he didn't turn up for work at a local KFC

Shanayah and Jye, who she described as her 'best friend', are the oldest of their seven siblings who all share a close bond because of their 'rough childhood'.

She says their difficult upbringing had a profound effect on Jye and he wanted to devote his life to helping other kids. At the time of his death he was studying to be a youth worker at TAFE.

'Jye loved to have a laugh, he made everyone laugh. He had a big heart,' Shanayah said.

'He wanted to do youth work, to help kids who couldn't help themselves. He was studying at TAFE. He loved it, but Covid made it hard.'

Shanayah said Jye was trying to keep himself busy by drawing and mowing his lawns when stay-at-home orders were applied to Dubbo in a bid to halt a growing Covid outbreak.

She said he was looking forward to starting his new job at a local KFC restaurant.

'I was helping him look for a job,' Shanayah said.

'He finally got one and he was so excited.'

Jye, pictured with Shanayah when they were young, wanted to devote his life to helping other kids through tough times and was at TAFE studying to be a youth worker

Jye had recently started a new job at KFC which Shanayah said he was 'really excited' about, but their concern grew when they were told he didn't turn up for his first shift

Shanayah said Jye had been more quiet than usual the day before she found him in the shed, but he had recently been out of reach while going for a long walk and the family assumed he was out exercising again.

'But then we heard he didn't go to work - it was his first shift,' Shanayah said.

'I went over to his house and knocked on the windows. His house was locked so I kept knocking trying to annoy him. Nan was on the phone with me at the time.

'I noticed the shed door was open a little bit. Nan said to check it, she asked me if there was weed killer in there because she let him borrow it. I went to go get it and that's when I saw him.'

'A few weeks before he went for a walk to get something and his phone was off. He did the same thing so we thought he went for a walk again. Then we heard he didn't go to work,' Shanayah said

Shanayah (right) said Jye (left) had a 'huge heart' and was always 'making others laugh'. The family are hoping to raise money through a GoFundMe to help pay for his funeral

Shanayah said she started screaming and hung up on her grandmother before calling emergency services, but it was too late.

Shanayah has started a GoFundMe to help the family pay for Jye's funeral, which has already received $14,000 in donations from friends, family and strangers.

Covid restrictions only permit 10 guests to attend but the family has made plans to create a livestream so those that can't be there are still able to witness Jye's final blessing.

Shanayah hopes Jye's story will encourage others to reach out for help when they need it and check in on their loved ones, particularly during the last few weeks of lockdown in NSW.

If you or anyone you know needs help please contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.
Daniel Andrews was all swagger as he fronted the familiar and fawning media pack in Melbourne on July 15.

He was there to announce a 'snap' five-day lockdown after allowing Covid-19 back into the community yet again.

The announcement came just five days after he had assured Victorians they had avoided another hard lockdown by pushing cases back to zero.

'I know we have avoided something altogether worse,' he said as he crowed over the very short-lived success of Lockdown #4.

'Altogether worse, that's weeks if not months of being closed,' he said.

Mr Andrew was not to know that on that very same day a person carrying the virus would attend an AFL match at the MCG and bring about a new outbreak, and another lockdown.

'We are all working as hard as we possibly can to make this as short a lockdown as possible, five days,' Mr Andrews claimed.

'That is certainly better than five weeks or five months.'

With that, the premier announced what was to be Victoria's fifth hard lockdown since the pandemic reached Australian shores in March last year.

'We have done it before and we have done before with the Delta variants,' Mr Andrews bragged. 'We can do it again and we will do it again.'

Daniel Andrews took a massive swipe at New South Wales premier on July 15 over the Sydney outbreak that had spread and wreaked havoc in Victoria

The Victorian premier had claimed Victoria had avoided a long lockdown on July 10. It was the same day an infected man attended the MCG members (pictured) area and closed the state down

On September 1, some six weeks later, Mr Andrews finally conceded he had lost the battle for a 'Covid zero' state.

His capitulation came as Victoria's active Covid cases surged to 176 - the biggest number in more than one year.

On Thursday, Victoria recorded 324 new cases overnight, including hundreds of mystery infections.

'The key point is to keep those numbers as low as we can - not zero - but to keep them as low as we can so that our nurses have got a fair fight, so that we're not making the job of our nurses, even harder,' Mr Andrews said today.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews beams during a gloating social media post about Victoria achieving its first day of Covid zero last year. By then, his own government had overseen the death of more than 800 elderly citizens through a bungled hotel quarantine scheme

The Victorian premier celebrates Covid zero with some top shelf whiskey last year.

The state premier made the subtle dig at Gladys Berejiklian as he defended plunging his state into a snap five-day lockdown in July

Meanwhile, north of the border, residents are preparing to embrace freedom well before summer.

On Thursday, New South Wales residents were told they will be allowed to go to pubs, cafes, shops, gyms and hairdressers with a four-square-metre distancing rule by proving they are fully vaccinated using the ServiceNSW app.

Home visits will be allowed though limited, and schools will reopen.

The announcement must have been galling for Mr Andrews, who justified his decision to institute the 'five-day' lockdown by pointing to NSW and saying it was a case study in what can happen if governments do not pounce on outbreaks immediately.

On July 18 Mr Andrews said the next 48 hours would be critical in determining if restrictions were lifted on time as his state grappled with the 'problems of Sydney'

By contrast, Mr Andrews said he would 'go hard and go early' believing that was the key preventing another explosion in cases and a lengthy lockdown.

Not only would he introduce all the same restrictions as NSW had, he would go further - a city-wide curfew, the closure of kids' playgrounds and imposition of lockdowns on regional areas that hadn't witnesses a single case.

Victorians would have been accepting of those measures, had they worked.

Instead, the Victorian Premier has grudgingly had to admit Ms Berejiklian was right when she said the Delta variant can not be eliminated via lockdowns, and that the only way to restore freedoms was to rapidly bolster vaccination numbers and then open up.

His top doctor, Brett Sutton, had also previously vowed Victoria's Covid case numbers would never again be in their hundreds.

Mr Andrews referred to the outbreak as the 'Sydney incursion' and blamed it on forcing his state into its fifth lockdown since the pandemic began in 2020

On August 23, he claimed: 'Were not going to see, you know, 300s and 400s again in Victoria, not under my watch at least.'

Sydney's march out of lockdown has become a cause of frustration for the Victorian premier, who this week launched into a hissy fit after data emerged showing NSW received a higher per-capita allocation of vaccine than had its southern neighbour.

In July, Mr Andrews had repeatedly taken pot shot at the NSW premier over the Covid outbreak that had spread from Sydney and infected Victorians.

The state had managed to keep Victoria's second deadly wave out for months last year during Victoria's second deadly outbreak, which killed more than 800 people after escaping Mr Andrews' bungled hotel quarantine.

'Problems of Sydney have become challenges here, and if there's a problem in Melbourne, then there's every reason to believe that we have to be very conservative in our approach to parts of regional Victoria,' Mr Andrews crowed in July.

Tired Victorians took solace that at least it was not them who were being blamed for the latest 'incursion'.

During previous lockdowns, the premier and his minions had blamed everyone for the spread of the virus from Victorian families to their failure to get the jab fast enough - despite a total lack of vaccine available.

NSW recorded 1,405 new Covid-19 cases and six deaths on Thursday. But it is closer to freedom than Victoria

Victoria recorded 324 new cases overnight, including hundreds of mystery infections.

'Delta has changed the script,' Mr Andrews said last week.

The key to freedom now relies totally on vaccinations.

'There's going to be a vaccinated economy, and you get to participate in that if you are vaccinated,' Mr Andrews told reporters last week.

With summer fast approaching, the Andrews Government has gone into top gear to get the population vaccinated.

On Thursday, brewer Carlton and United jumped on the bandwagon with a comical new advertisement urging VB beer drinkers to 'roll up their sleeves and get the jab' to the tune of its iconic anthem.

To date, only 31.5 percent of Australia's population has been fully vaccinated.

In Victoria, only 922,711 people have received a double dose of the jab.

Mr Andrews has named September 23 as the date he believes 70 percent of eligible Victorians will have received their first vaccination dose and when restrictions can begin to lift.

Every day after that spent in lockdown could put another nail in coffin of the premier's dreams of one more term in the state's top job.
Mayor Bill de Blasio and counter-terrorism bosses for the NYPD said at a press conference on Wednesday that there are 'no specific, credible threats' to New York City ahead of events to remember 9/11 on its 20th anniversary.

John Miller, the Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, warned that the NYPD was still treating events around the 9/11 anniversary with 'elevated threat' levels after al-Qaeda, ISIS, and the Taliban issued new propaganda with 'calls to action' that could lead to terror attacks.

'It is worth restating for the third time, there is no specific credible threat to 9/11 or the events around it,' Miller said.

'We're treating this as an elevated threat environment. So absent specific information why, here's why: We've seen the specific call to action this year, the louder and better organized counterterrorism groups than we have seen in prior years.'

Miller said that the terrorist groups have been more vocal this year 'probably' because this historic 20th anniversary.

'But it also comes at the same time as the fall of a U.S.-supported government in Afghanistan, the return of the Taliban and other factors that are stirring those conversations,' Miller said.

John Miller, the Deputy Commissioner of Intelligence and Counterterrorism, warned that the NYPD was still treating events around the 9/11 anniversary with 'elevated threat' levels

He said the NYPD has counted 'more than a dozen significant propaganda releases'

Miller said that after such publications, counter-terrorism experts have seen three significant terrorist events around the world

Two-thirds of them come from Al Qaeda, and many of those propaganda releases have been geared towards English language audiences

Miller, an expert on terrorism known for conducting a May 1998 interview with Osama bin Laden in Afghanistan, said the NYPD has counted 'more than a dozen significant propaganda releases.'

He said many of those propaganda releases have been geared towards English language audiences. Two-thirds of them come from Al Qaeda - which has, along with ISIS, suffered significant losses in its commanding control in recent years.

'So we are paying attention to that drum beat. We've seen the al-Qaeda magazine Wolves of Manhattan  which is named for the 9/11 hijackers  come out with a new issue,' Miller said.

'We've seen the Inspire guide, another terrorist publication, circulating. We've seen a trailer for an Al Qaeda film that's supposed to come out soon. So we take note of all of that and factor that into our threat assessment and plans.'

Miller said that after such publications, counter-terrorism experts have seen three significant terrorist events around the world.

'Obviously, the attack on the [Kabul] airport in Afghanistan. Another attack involving a knife and multiple victims in Auckland. But one closer to home in Plano, Texas,' Miller said.

There were 13 U.S. service members and at least 92 Afghans killed at the Hamid Karzai International Airport by at least one ISIS-K suicide bomber on August 26, just days before the end of American occupation in the country.

Just three days later, a Lyft driver in Plano was shot and killed when she went to pick up a passenger in a case being investigated by Dallas FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Force.

In Auckland, New Zealand, a Sri Lankan national was shot and killed by police last Friday after he stabbed six people at supermarket in an attack officials said was inspired by ISIS.

'We look at each one of these to examine what propaganda was the driver, who was behind it and we are always scanning our environment. Those incidents aren't linked in any way, except for the common thread people are acting on ISIS propaganda.'

Miller added: 'So starting on the premise that there is no specific, credible threat - we operate on the idea that there is a threat out there and we have to continuously hunt for that before the event, during the event, after the event and not just at the event, but around the city.'

Chief of Counterterrorism Martine Materasso outlined the precautions the NYPD was taking for the 9/11 ceremony on Saturday while noting police are 'much better equipped, trained and prepared to prevent a terrorist attack in the city'

Bill de Blasio said: 'We are watching because we know the ways of the terrorists, we understand this anniversary is going to be on their minds too'

Chief of Counterterrorism Martine Materasso outlined the precautions the NYPD was taking for the 9/11 ceremony on Saturday while noting police are 'much better equipped, trained and prepared to prevent a terrorist attack in the city.'

'There will be measures in and around the World Trade Center site that the public will see, and there will be many that they won't,' Materasso said.

'This plan has been in development for many months, and it couldn't have happened without the seamless coordination between all agencies and organizations.'

She said the NYPD will use explosive detection canines, heavy weapons teams, explosive detection instruments, license plate readers, radiological and chemical censors, and 'countless' cameras to monitor and thwart terrorist activity.

'Magnetometers will be used to screen every person that enters the plaza. Our bomb squad will be at the World Trade Center site prior to the event and will remain for the duration,' Materasso said.

'The Joint Terrorism Task Force will investigate any threats prior and during the ceremony. We will have plainclothes officers around the perimeter of the site to locate and suspicious people or activity.'

De Blasio noted during the press conference that the city does not allow drones to be flown near the World Trade Center site.

'Ground Zero, not just on Saturday, but every day is not a place for any visitor or any resident of the city to ever use a drone,' de Blasio said.

'Some people, ostensibly innocently, have had drones and used them in that area to take photos. Unacceptable, not going to be tolerated. They are going to be confiscated, that's not the place. It's too sensitive and too much has happened. I just want to make that very clear.'

Materasso noted that the NYPD will have counter-drone detection teams that will mitigate if necessary - and drone operators could face criminal and civil penalties.

'The eyes of the world will be on New York City, which means we have to take extraordinary precautions to protect all New Yorkers,' de Blasio said.

'I want to say the most important thing up front, as of this moment there is no specific and credible threat directed at New York City. We have an extraordinary counterterrorism capacity; we are watching all the time.'

He continued: 'We're going to have deployments all over New York City in the days ahead and particularly on 9/11, not just at Ground Zero but all over New York City. And we are watching because we know the ways of the terrorists, we understand this anniversary is going to be on their minds too.'
Anyone wanting fly Qantas when international flights resume will be forced to get a Covid vaccination, with the airline confirming those without a jab will be banned.

Chief executive Alan Joyce said on Thursday the mandate was intended to protect those passengers who were fully vaccinated, as the jabs reduce the chances of catching and transmitting the virus.

'Qantas will have a policy that internationally we'll only be carrying vaccinated passengers,' Mr Joyce said.

'Because we think that's going to be one of the requirements to show that you're flying safe and getting into those countries. We're hoping that can happen by Christmas.'

Outbound international travel will remain off limits to Australians until at least Dec. 17 - barring special examptions - and demand for overseas flights will likely remain low while there is the need to undergo lengthy quarantine upon return.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he wanted the fortnight of hotel quarantine to be scrapped for a shorter home quarantine sentence for returned travellers, although some state leaders are likely to push for a retention of the former.

Qantas confirm they will ban all unvaccinated passengers from travelling on international flights as the airline hopes to commence flying Aussies abroad from December

Airlines are hoping to resume international travel from November at the earliest, with people stranded in Australia free to return home to places including London

Qantas has been pushing for vaccination reform throughout the pandemic, instituting mandatory jabs for its 22,000-strong staff.

'Frontline employees - including cabin crew, pilots and airport workers - will need to be fully vaccinated by November 15, 2021 and the remainder of employees by March 31, 2022,' the company said in a statement.

'There will be exemptions for those who are unable for documented medical reasons to be vaccinated, which is expected to be very rare.'

Mr Joyce has been been outspoken on the issue, promising throughout the pandemic to bar unvaccinated customers from future international travel.

'We think everybody should be protecting themselves, but we also have a requirement to protect our colleagues and our passengers,' he said.

'And then there's also a requirement to protect the community,' Joyce said, citing the example of Longreach in outback Queensland, which put 100 residents into isolation after a Covid-19-positive cabin crew member flew there.'

Qantas has been pushing for vaccination reform throughout the pandemic, instituting mandatory jabs for its 22,000-strong staff

The company's CEO Alan Joyce (pictured) said the mandate would be to protect those flying who were vaccinated and ensure those aboard Qantas flights who are vaccinated can fly safely

Qantas have also been offering incentive programs for members to get vaccinated, shelling out prizes to people who can prove their status.

The company's frequent flyers can choose between 1,000 points, 15 status credits or a $20 flight discounts.

Mr Joyce confirmed more than 300,000 people have already claimed their rewards, with 220million frequent flyer points being handed out.

While normal international travel will have to wait until at least next year, governments in NSW and Victoria have announced a gradual easing of lockdown measures on the ground.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed on Thursday that retail and hospitality businesses will be open to the vaccinated only when the state hits the milestone of 70 per cent of the 16-and-over population has had two jabs, likely to be in mid-October.

After four months of being cooped up in their homes, Sydneysiders will be able to go to pubs, cafes, gyms and hairdressers by proving they are fully vaccinated by linking their medical details to the government's ServiceNSW app.

Under plans agreed to during a crisis cabinet meeting on Wednesday, millions in NSW will finally lose the shackles of lockdown on October 18 - providing the 70 per cent fully-vaccinated target is met (pictured, pub-goers in Sydney's The Rocks on Anzac Day 2021)

Under the 'vaccine passport' plan set to be formally announced on Thursday at 11am, double-dosed residents - including those in the 12 LGAs areas of concern - will be given a wide range of new freedoms (pictured, diners at a Bondi eatery when restrictions eased in June last year)

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said there is no set 'freedom day' but restrictions will ease the Monday after the 70 per cent jab rate is reached. The most likely date is October 18.

Ms Berejiklian said the further freedoms would be restored once 80 per cent are vaccinated, including inbound international travel.

But she warned that some domestic travel restrictions may be needed until then.

'If there are high rates of disease in a particular location or a sudden surge or outbreak, we have to restrict movements in the communities,' she said.

'Your mobility will be restricted within a particular distance. That could happen at any stage. Towns or cities outside of Greater Sydney who haven't had any outbreaks and experience an outbreak, may have to come under that condition.'

In a cabinet meeting last night, state ministers voted unanimously to ease the rules, despite reports that Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant wanted an 85 per cent double-jab rate before opening.
Thousands of regional NSW residents can forward to eased restrictions and being freed from lockdown within days.

'Vast amounts' of NSW regional areas with few or no coronavirus cases will be released from lockdown at 12.01 Saturday, including the state's mid north coast, north coast, north-west, northern rivers, Byron Bay, Albury, Riverina and Murrumbidgee regions.

But 38 local government areas across regional NSW will remain in lockdown, including the state's central and far west, the Central Coast, Hunter and Shellharbour regions.

Regions lifted from lockdown will also enjoy eased restrictions, including up to five visitors at home and outdoor gatherings of up to 20.

School, gyms and hospitality will also reopen at restricted capacity.

Parts of regional NSW will enjoy more freedoms when they're listed from lockdown on Saturday, including the reopening of gyms

The announcement comes as NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian unveiled the state's roadmap to freedom once 70 per cent of residents are fully vaccinated.

Only fully vaccinated people and those with medical exemptions will have access to the freedoms allowed under the Reopening NSW roadmap.

The LGAs coming out of lockdown at 12.01am Saturday are deemed low risk and have had zero Covid cases in the last fortnight.

'This decision is based on NSW Health advice, and the LGAs which remain in lockdown will continue to be monitored and we will update those communities on a regular basis,' Deputy Premier John Barilaro said.

Wagga Wagga in the Riverina region is among the areas coming out of lockdown on Saturday

'For the areas coming out of lockdown, you are not coming back to a pre-lockdown environment.

'There will be capacity limits for our hotels, cafes and restaurants, including the four square metre rule, mask wearing, social distancing.'

'There is rules around certain activities that won't recommence. Community sport won't be permitted yet.'

He warned regions will be plunged back into lockdown for a minimum of 14 days if a new Covid case emerges.

'It is important that we protect the communities. One case is one case too many in the regions,' he added.

NSW recorded 1405 new cases and five deaths on Thursday.

The following rules are in place for local government areas where stay at home orders will be lifted.

Gatherings in the home and public spaces:

 Up to five visitors will be allowed in a home (not including children 12 and under).

 Up to 20 people can gather in outdoor settings.

Tourist mecca Byron Bay (pictured) is among the regions coming out of lockdown

Venues including hospitality, retail stores and gyms:

 Hospitality venues can reopen subject to one person per 4sqm inside and one person per 2sqm outside, with standing while drinking permitted outside.

 Retail stores can reopen under the one person per 4sqm rule.

 Personal services such as hairdressers and nail salons can open with one person per 4sqm, capped at five clients per premises.

 Gyms and indoor recreation facilities can open under the one person per 4sqm rule and can offer classes for up to 20 people.

 Sporting facilities including swimming pools can reopen.

Schools:

 Schools will re-open with Level 3 COVIDSafe measures in place.

Stadiums, theatres and major outdoor recreation facilities:

 Major recreation outdoor facilities including stadiums, racecourses, theme parks and zoos can reopen with one person per 4sqm, capped at 5,000 people.

 Up to 500 people can attend ticketed and seated outdoor events.

 Indoor entertainment and information facilities including cinemas, theatres, music halls, museums and galleries can reopen with one person per 4sqm or 75 per cent fixed seated capacity.

Mask wearing rules will ease slightly in many parts of regional NSW but remain mandatory in indoor public settings such as retail and business premises

Residents in regions coming out of lockdown will be permitted to have outdoor gatherings of up to 20 under eased restrictions

Weddings, funerals and places of worship:

 Up to 50 guests can attend weddings, with dancing permitted and eating and drinking only while seated.

 Up to 50 guests can attend funerals, with eating and drinking while seated.

 Churches and places of worship to open subject to one person per 4sqm rule, with no singing.

Travel:

 Caravan parks and camping grounds can open.

 Carpooling will be permitted.

Masks:

 Masks will remain mandatory for all indoor public venues, including public transport, front-of-house hospitality, retail and business premises, on planes and at airports.

 Only hospitality staff will be required to wear a mask when outdoors.

 Children aged under 12 will not need to wear a mask indoors.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured) unveiled the state's roadmap out of lockdown as NSW recorded 1405 new cases
Scott Morrison has indicated Australians stuck overseas will be able to return and quarantine at home later this year.

The prime minister used a pre-recorded video message to acknowledge the frustration of citizens and permanent residents blocked from returning because of border closures.

'We are looking forward to welcoming many people back home soon. We can get there this year,' Mr Morrison told an awards ceremony for high-achieving Australians working overseas.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has informed Australians stuck overseas due to border closures, that they will be able to return later this year (pictured, an international traveler entering Melbourne quarantine)

'I thank you once again for your patience and enduring what has been a very frustrating and very difficult time for you.'

Home quarantine is expected to become the norm for returning Australians as vaccination rates increase at home and abroad.

A 50-person trial in South Australia used facial recognition and location technology to ensure people were at home during three random checks each day.

Mr Morrison has declared home quarantine is the way forward when Australia hits an over-16 vaccination coverage target of 80 per cent.

Mr Morrison (pictured) thanked those separated from their families for their patience after enduring the difficult time overseas

The Prime Minister also said that home quarantine will be way the way forward once Australia reaches the 80 per cent vaccination target (pictured, Sydney International Airport)

'I know for Australians overseas it has been a very difficult and frustrating time,' the prime minister said.

'It's tough living through a pandemic and being separated from your family and that's brought its own heartbreak, life's moments missed that you will never get back.'

But Labor leader Anthony Albanese argues the prime minister made commitments in the lead up to last Christmas to clear a backlog of people registered to return home.

'It's now September 2021 and he's now saying you'll be home some time in the future,' Mr Albanese told reporters in Sydney.

Australia is also preparing to roll out vaccine passports from October, moving towards international travel resumption (pictured, travellers embrace at Sydney International Airport)

Australia is preparing to roll out vaccine passports from October to pave the way for international travel to resume.

The opposition leader said there was nothing new in countries requiring immunisation against other infectious diseases.

'This will be a fact of life for people to undertake activities such as international travel,' Mr Albanese said.
Google has launched 'racial equity training' for its employees, with one session asserting that America is based on a 'system of white supremacy' where babies learn to be racist at three months old.

Whistleblower documents from the trainings obtained by City Journal reporter Christopher Rufo were published Wednesday, with the sessions seemingly based on the core principles of Critical Race Theory.

Several of the trainings feature CRT buzzwords and phrases such as 'equity' 'intersectionality,' 'white privilege,' and 'systemic racism'.

The training features a number of videos from guest lecturers, including Ibram X. Kendi, who penned the controversial bestseller How To Be An Antiracist .

In his training clip, Kendi states: 'To be raised in the United States, is to be raised to be racist, and to be raised to be racist is to be raised to almost be addicted to racist ideas.'

He adds: 'The youngest of people are not colorblind - between three and six months, our toddlers are beginning to understand race and see race.'

It's unclear whether the trainings are mandatory for all staff. DailyMail.com has reached out to Google for comment.

The trainings feature a number of videos from guest lecturers, including Ibram X. Kendi, who penned the controversial bestseller How To Be An Antiracist

Kendi states in his training clip: 'To be raised in the United States, is to be raised to be racist, and to be raised to be racist is to be raised to almost be addicted to racist ideas'

A separate video session features Nikole Hannah-Jones, a New York Times journalist best known as the editor of the '1619 Project', which retells the founding of America through the eyes of slaves, but has been criticized over multiple inaccuracies.

'If you name anything in America, I can relate it back to slavery,' Hannah-Jones says in her clip for the Google training.

'The first Africans being sold [in 1619] is more foundational to the American story' than 'the Pilgrims landing at Plymouth Rock', she goes on to state in the video, according to Rufo.

Meanwhile, another training module, titled 'Allyship in Action,' asks employees to 'identify their privileged identities' and rank themselves on a hierarchy.

One diagram - which was purportedly given to Rufo by a disgruntled Google employee - is titled 'Wheel of Power/ Privilege'. One slice of the wheel asserts that 'gay men' have more privilege and power than 'lesbian, bi, pansexual and asexual people'.

A separate video session features Nikole Hannah-Jones, best known as the editor of the '1619 Project'

Another training module, titled 'Allyship in Action,' asks employees to 'identify their privileged identities' and then rank themselves on a hierarchy

One diagram is titled 'Wheel of Power/ Privilege'. One slice of the wheel asserts that 'gay men' have more privilege and power than 'lesbian, bi, pansexual and asexual people'

There are also a number of unofficial documents purportedly circulating amongst Google staff.

According to Rufo, one Google DEI Lead has created an internal document titled 'Anti-racism resources', which contains readings and 'racial-consciousness exercises'.

The document includes a graphic which lists covert or 'socially acceptable' forms of white supremacy. According to the list, the phrase 'Make America Great Again' is a form of covert white supremacy.

Others forms of covert white supremacy include 'white silence', 'denial of white privilege', 'colorblindness', 'paternalism', 'tokenism' and the 'meritocracy myth'.

A separate graphic in the resource package is titled 'The White Supremacy Pyramid'. It features conservative commentator Ben Shapiro at the base of the pyramid, before working upwards to other figures who are deemed more insidious.

Donald Trump features partway up the pyramid, while the apex features photos of white mass murderers including Norwegian killer Anders Brevik.

Rufo claims the graphic 'advances the idea that Ben Shapiro is a foundation of 'white supremacy' and that Donald Trump is moving society on a path toward 'mass murder' and 'genocide.'

According to Rufo, one Google DEI Lead has created an internal document titled 'Anti-racism resources', which contains readings and 'racial-consciousness exercises'. The document also includes a graphic which lists covert or 'socially acceptable' forms of white supremacy

Another graphic is titled 'The White Supremacy Pyramid'. It features conservative Jewish commentator Ben Shapiro at the base of the pyramid, before it works its way upwards, classifying other figures deemed more insidious

The 'racial equity trainings' were announced by Google CEO Sundar Pichai last year in the wake of George Floyd's murder.

'We'll be welcoming external experts into Google to share their expertise on racial history and structural inequities, and start conversations on education, allyship, and self-reflection,' Pichai wrote.

'We plan to roll out this training globally by early next year. We'll also integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion into our mandatory manager trainings,' he added.

Rufo - who been working to expose alleged 'critical race theory indoctrination' in American companies and institutions - told Fox News he is alarmed by Google's trainings.

'What we see inside these companies is that increasingly, the ideology of Google employees is actively hostile to the United States and other documents say that the United States is a system of white supremacy and that everyone in this country is 'raised to be racist,' he stated.

'This is a deeply false and damaging kind of thinking. It should have nowhere in America's biggest and most powerful companies'.

Rufo has been working to expose alleged 'critical race theory indoctrination' in American companies and institutions

Google has launched 'racial equity training' for its employees, with one session asserting that America is based on a 'system of white supremacy' where babies learn to be racist from three months old
A snake catcher has been forced to wrestle a python out from the wall of a family home after the serpent took up residence between the wooden slats.

Joshua Castle, a snake catcher from Brisbane's north, spent several minutes trying to remove the snake from the wall, sharing footage of the struggle to his Facebook page on Wednesday.

Mr Castle had to reach into a small hole in the wall to grab the carpet python's tail without knowing where the snake's head was.

'I don't know where the head is, so I've gotta be careful,' he said.

'I don't wanna get chewed on and I can't see.'

While he believed the snake was young, the snake catcher said the bite would still be quite painful.

While Mr Castle continued to pull at the snack from one side of the wall, the snake's head suddenly appeared from another part of the wall behind the camerawoman, much to the shock of everyone present.

The Brisbane snake catcher spent several minutes fighting to remove a carpet python from the outside wall of a family's home

The snake flickered its tongue at the camera as the snake catcher tried to grab its head and push it back inside the wall.

Mr Castle said: 'I might see if I can untangle him here and then whip him out.'

The resident professional continued to fight with the python, stating that the mission to collect the snake had just gotten harder again.

'He's obviously wrapped himself around something in there,' Mr Castle said.

The snake catcher said he could hear the snake moving inside the wall before it would pop its head out of the other side of the wall again and slither out.

The uncomfortable tango between man and snake only ended when Mr Castle pulled the carpet python head-first out of a gap in the wall.

The snake mentioned if the snake was larger, it would have had double the strength and made the task more difficult

Mr Castle held the massive snake up to the camera, showed off the python's long body, and mentioned that if the snake was larger it would have had double the strength.

He also noted that when snakes are stuck behind walls sometimes he needs to cut away at the framework to free them.

'I want to try and avoid damaging stuff. I'll try and get it [the snake] without damaging if possible,' he said.

The snake catcher said he was fortunate in the end to be able to reach in and grab the giant python from the wall.
The sister of an American Airlines pilot killed on 9/11 slammed Joe Biden in a Fox interview saying his chaotic Afghanistan withdrawal infuriated her and that it has put the US at risk of fresh terror attacks.

Debra Burlingame, 67, lost her brother Charles 'Chic' Burlingame on the day of the attack after AA flight 77, a Boeing 757, crashed into the Pentagon when it was hijacked by terrorists nearly 20 years ago.

In an interview with Fox's The Story host Martha MacCallum, Burlingame described her disdain for Biden after watching a clip of George W. Bush commenting on the 9/11 attack in 2001.

'Just listening to that fills me with rage,' she told the network. 'Because I cant imagine what the soundbites 20 years from now will be from President Biden. Those [from Bush] speak to everything hes not doing.'

'I believe were in grave danger now. This administration is now embracing a terrorist regime. The very people he's referring to sheltered Osama bin Laden, the ones that provided him a safe haven while they practiced storming the cockpits and killing the pilots.'

Debra Burlingame, 67, slammed President Joe Biden for his soft treatment of Taliban during an interview with Fox News

Debra's brother Charles 'Chic' Burlingame was an American Airlines pilot who was killed after his plane was hijacked by terrorists on 9/11

President Joe Biden has been criticized for his actions in Afghanistan, including his recent exit strategy of U.S. troops and citizens

Burlingame went on to describe that hijackings, such as the one that involved her brother, were practiced in Afghanistan by terrorist leaders such as Hani Hanjour.

Hanjour was the terrorist leader responsible for her brother's plane hijacking on 9/11. It killed 53 passengers, six crew members and five hijackers, as well as 125 people who were inside the Pentagon at the time.

'That regime is now in place [in Kabul]. Some of the very people involved  are the people that President Biden is calling a friendlier, kinder, Taliban,' Burlingame added.

'No. Theyre mullahs installed now. They have members of the Haqqani Network in their ministry. Haqqani is more vicious than Al Qaeda. They are known for brutal hostage-taking.'

Fox's The Story host Martha MacCallum interviewed Burlingame and Katherine Deparis whose brothers were killed in the 9/11 attack

Debra Burlingame with her late brother Charles 'Chic' Burlingame

Burlingame's plane crashed into The Pentagon in D.C. killing everyone onboard as well as several people in the building. The wrecked building is pictured on September 14 2001

Burlingame further stated that Biden 'will not be welcome' by some families at the 9/11 memorial sites after his actions in Afghanistan.

President Biden has been criticized for his U.S. exit strategy, which included deploying more troops to Afghanistan during the Taliban takeover.

'I think it's going to go down in history as one of the biggest mistakes,' Burlingame added.

The Fox interview took place nearly 20 years after the 9/11 attacks that killed both Burlingame's brother and the brother of Kathleen Deparis, who was also present for the interview.

President George W. Bush was praised for his concern of the safety of the American people after the 2001 attack

After the 9/11 attack, former President Bush sought to ensure the safety of the American people first.

In 2001, Bush said: 'Either youre with us or you are with the terrorists. From this day forward, any nation that continues to harbor or support terrorism will be regarded by the United States as a hostile regime.'

Katherine Deparis lost her brother Bart Ruggiere who was killed in the 9/11 attacks

Deparis agreed with Burlingame on her claims that the Biden administration and the U.S. government should be protecting the citizens of their country.

In terms of the exit strategy, Deparis called it 'totally avoidable' and said she felt as if she was 'stabbed in the back.'

She said: 'We talk about never forget.' How can this administration have forgotten who these people are and what they have done to this country. And my brother.'

The US military lifted off from Kabul for the final time on August 30, having evacuated more than 100,000 people from Afghanistan.

President Biden himself is said to have been stunned by the speed with which the Taliban retook Afghanistan, but has insisted he was right to withdraw from a conflict that the United States could not win.

Critics have said he should have maintained a strategic presence, as the US does in other countries including South Korea and Germany, to send effective warning signals to enemies.
Henry Ramirez, 37, is set to be executed Wednesday for killing a convenience store in in a robbery that garnered $1.25 in 2004

The U.S. Supreme Court has halted the execution of a Texas inmate as they consider his request to have his pastor lay his hands on him as he's put to death by lethal injection.

John Henry Ramirez, 37, was scheduled to be executed Wednesday night, before the Court handed down their decision at the eleventh hour.

Ramirez has been on death row for more than a decade after being convicted of murdering 45 year-old store clerk Pablo Castro in 2004.

He stabbed Castro 29 times for $1.25 during a drug fueled robbery in Corpus Christi. He fled to Mexico but was arrested more than three years later.

Ramirez, who is a former Marine and devout Protestant, sued prison officials last month, asking them to let his spiritual advisor lay hands on him and say a prayer while he was being executed.

Prison officials claimed that would pose a security risk and the vocal prayer could be disruptive. Ramirez countered that their denial violated his First Amendment right to freedom of religion

For Protestants, the laying of hands is a symbolic act in which a religious leader places their hands on a person to confer a spiritual blessing.

Ramirez' s request was turned down by Texas prison officials, and a federal judge in Houston and the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals also denied Ramirez's request to stay his execution over the issue.

However, the Supreme Court late on Wednesday voted to halt the execution so they can fully consider Ramirez's request.

According to a memo published Wednesday night, the Court will now hear the case in 'October or November'.

he Supreme Court late on Wednesday voted to halt the execution so they can fully consider Ramirez's request and determine whether he can have his pastor lay hands on him as he is put to death

Store clerk Pablo Castro (pictured) was 45 when he was murdered by Ramirez in 2004

'He is paying for his crime,' said pastor and Ramirez's spiritual advisor Dana Moore. 'I guess the question that would come up, is that not enough?'

Ramirez has already had two stays of execution - once in 2017 so he could get a new attorney and again last September because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ramirez's is the latest clash between death row inmates and prison officials in Texas and other states over the presence of spiritual advisers in the death chamber.

He was condemned for the 2004 killing of 46-year-old Pablo Castro as he took out the trash from a Corpus Christi convenience store.

Prosecutors say Ramirez stabbed Castro 29 times during a series of robberies in which the inmate and two women sought money following a three-day drug binge.

In a 2018 BBC interview from prison, Ramirez said he, Angela Rodriguez and Christina Chavez were smoking weed, taking cocaine, prescription pills and drinking vodka that night.

He told BBC that Rodriguez was fighting with a man, and he got involved in the altercation to try to separate them.

Crime scene photo of Pablo Castro's brutal murder in 2004

'I had stabbed him in the neck,' Ramirez said. 'There was like real aggressive gurgling sound. That's what kind of snapped me out of it, and I saw how hurt he was and he was bleeding everywhere. I was just like, "Oh man. I went too far."'

Growing up, Ramirez said he had an abusive father who stabbed his mother multiple times when he was younger. He said in the BBC interview that he was surrounded by gang activity, so he joined the Marines.

Ramirez claimed that during his drug-fueled blackout, the military training took over.

'They teach you to kill a person in the fastest way possible. They teach you kill shot. That's what we call it, which is a lot of places I ended up hitting Pablo,' Ramirez said.

'I hit him in the heart. I hit him in the neck. I hit him in the groin. I hit him in the lung.'

Ramirez fled to Mexico but was arrested three-and-a-half years later. He is set to be executed Wednesday evening at the state penitentiary in Huntsville.

In April, the Texas prison system reversed a two-year ban on allowing spiritual advisors in the death chamber.

The ban came after the US Supreme Court in 2019 halted the execution of another Texas inmate who had argued his religious freedom was being violated because his Buddhist spiritual advisor wasn't allowed to accompany him.

Texas previously allowed state-employed clergy to accompany inmates into the chamber, but its prison staff included only Christian and Muslim clerics. The new policy allows an inmates approved spiritual advisor to be in the chamber but the two cannot have any contact and vocal prayers during the execution are not allowed.

Seth Kretzer, Ramirez's lawyer, has argued the Texas Department of Criminal Justice is violating the death row inmate's First Amendment rights to practice his religion. He called the ban on vocal prayer a spiritual 'gag order.'

'It is hostile toward religion, denying religious exercise at the precise moment it is most needed: when someone is transitioning from this life to the next,' Kretzer said in court documents.

Ramirez joined the Marines (left) to escape an abusive father and the gang activity in his Texas neighborhood. During his 2009 trial (right) he was convicted by a jury after less than an hour of deliberations

In a 2018 interview with the BBC, Ramirez credited his military training for the killing: 'They teach you to kill a person in the fastest way possible. They teach you kill shot.'

Dana Moore, Ramirez's spiritual advisor since 2016, said the request is about letting the inmate practice his Christian faith and treating him 'with a certain amount of dignity.'

'John's sentence wasn't death and you can't have any meaningful contact,' said Moore, a pastor at Second Baptist Church in Corpus Christi. 'He is paying for his crime. I guess the question that would come up, is that not enough?'

But Mark Skurka, the lead prosecutor at Ramirez's 2008 trial, said while he believes a death row inmate should have a spiritual advisor at the time of execution, there have to be limitations based on security concerns.

'Pablo Castro didn't get to have somebody praying over him as this guy stabbed him 29 times. Pablo Castro didnt get afforded such niceties and things like to have a clergyman present,' said Skurka, now retired after later serving as Nueces County district attorney.

Castro, who had nine children, had worked at the convenience store for more than a decade when he was killed.

'He was a good guy. He would help people out in the neighborhood. Everybody liked him,' Skurka said.

Rodriguez and Chavez, the two women who took part in the robberies, were convicted on lesser charges remain in prison.

If Ramirez is executed, he would be the third inmate put to death this year in Texas and the sixth in the US.
Donald Trump has again slammed President Joe Biden's botched military withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying that it made the crisis at the Southern border 'look good' in comparison.

'I really believe it's gross incompetence,' Trump said in an interview with Fox News host Greg Gutfeld on Wednesday. 'The only thing good about Afghanistan is that it makes what they're doing on the border look good.'

'Our country has never been more unsafe. We have people pouring in through our southern border, which everyone is forgetting about right now because of the travesty in Afghanistan,' he continued.

Illegal crossings at the southern border are at a 21-year high, with US Customs and Border Protection reporting more than 212,000 land encounters in July, a 13 percent increase from June.

Donald Trump has again slammed President Joe Biden's botched military withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying that it made the crisis at the Southern border 'look good' in comparison

Migrants and asylum seekers from Central America and the Caribbean walk in a caravan heading to the U.S. in Mexico on Saturday

In the interview, Trump tied the situation in Afghanistan in with his concerns about immigration, claiming that terrorists could have slipped into the US during the mass evacuation of Kabul.

'People are getting in by the hundreds and by the thousands and these are not the people necessarily that wanted the protection. So many terrorists are coming in in. They pushed their way onto the plane,' Trump said.

The Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the US since August 17 from Afghanistan

All undergo security screening at military bases in Europe or the Middle East before being allowed to enter the US.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through 'multi-layered' security vetting but he declines to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.

Trump's new interview comes as he increasingly appears to be laying the groundwork for a campaign in 2024.

Perhaps sensing a political opening in the massive public dismay over the situation in Afghanistan, Trump hammered on the subject throughout the interview.

'They don't fear [Biden],' he said of the Taliban, recalling his 2020 negotiations with Taliban leader Abdul Baradar, now the leader of the de facto Afghan government.

'It's a question of respect and being smart: I dealt with Abdul -- He's now the head of Taliban and was the head of the Taliban when I dealt with him,' he said.

Surveillance towers stand between new sections of the primary and secondary steel bollard-style border wall along the US-Mexico border between San Diego and Tijuana in May

Taliban soldiers stand guard over surrendered Afghan Militiamen in the Kapisa province northeast of Afghanistan on Wednesday

'I started off very tough. 'You're going to pay tremendous consequences' It was bad  and they understood what I said  and there was no way they were going to do anything to us  we could have taken our time, one year or two years [to withdraw].'

Trump again lamented the loss of billions of dollars worth of US military equipment, which was seized by the Taliban as the Afghan national army collapsed and surrendered.

'We can't have guns, but the Taliban have 27 each,' joked Trump.

Meanwhile Trump advisors are talking up Trump's growing interest in a bid to recapture the White House, with Biden's approval ratings experiencing a drop after the controversial pullout from Afghanistan.

Former campaign spokesman Jason Miller called a Trump re-run a near certainty in comments last week to Cheddar.

'I would say somewhere between 99 and 100 percent. I think he is definitely running in 2024,' Miller said.

Trump advisors are talking up his growing interest in a bid to recapture the White House  now that Biden's approval ratings are experiencing a drop

'I had a good conversation with him last night. I'm going to go see him in another couple days here.'

Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, a firm Trump ally, has said that Trump was not in a hurry to announce because 'the base is rightly loyal to him. And a good rule in politics is to be a candidate for as short a time as necessary.'

Another Trump loyalist, Rep. Jim Jordan - who spoke to Trump the day of the deadly Capitol riot on January 6 - was captured on video last week saying 'I know so' when asked if Trump would run again.

'I talked to him yesterday. He's about ready to announce after all of this craziness in Afghanistan,' Jordan said.
A Republican congressman from Tennessee has claimed that Afghan refugees are being given 'free reign' of the military base in Virginia where they're being housed as their Special Immigration Visas are processed.

Rep. Mark Green wrote a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday claiming that an anonymous source from Fort Pickett told him that the refugees, some of whom he claims are unvetted, have even been allowed to leave the base in Ubers unchallenged.

He has also claimed to have heard reports of sexual assaults, but did not offer further details.

The allegations made by Green, a combat veteran who served in the U.S. Army in Iraq and Afghanistan, have not been confirmed.

Most Afghan refugees, who helped the American military during the War on Terror, are being housed in third-party countries before their arrival in the United States.

Some, who were in latter stages of their approval process for their SIVs, have completed at least partial vetting and were taken to military bases in the U.S. to complete the process after they were deemed safe enough to be on American soil.

Rep. Mark Green wrote a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday

Green claimed that an anonymous source from Fort Pickett told him that the refugees have even been allowed to leave the base in Ubers unchallenged

Shocking allegations about unvetted Afghan evacuees leaving Fort Pickett. Joined @IngrahamAngle to break down my letter to @SecBlinken: pic.twitter.com/QQc8PxnOj3  Rep. Mark Green (@RepMarkGreen) September 9, 2021

'I am writing to express deep concerns about the Afghan evacuees who are being held at Fort Pickett while awaiting the vetting process,' Green wrote in his letter to Blinken.

'I have recently been made aware by someone at Fort Pickett that the evacuees basically have free rein of the complex and have even been allowed to leave despite not having completed the vetting process.'

He continued: 'My source has made shocking allegations, including multiple incidents of sexual assault, and several evacuees have been picked up by Uber drivers without any permission from authorities  or being cleared to leave.'

Green claimed that his source told him that soldiers tasked with guarding these evacuees are 'unarmed' and 'have no authority to arrest or stop any of them from simply leaving.'

'I know firsthand that we have a responsibility to those who risked their lives to serve as interpreters for our troops. Their bravery and valiance helped save many American lives,' Green said.

'However, in recent days, reports indicate that the vast majority of evacuees were not interpreters, and the fact that the State Department has still not been able to provide a breakdown is simply unacceptable.'

Traffic moves toward a tank and sign at the main entrance to Fort Pickett on August 25

A military truck exits the main gate to Fort Pickett on August 25, where Afghan refugees who have been prescreened by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security have been taken

Afghan passengers board a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III during the Afghanistan evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan on August 22

Green sent a letter to Secretary of State Blinken on Wednesday about Afghan refugees

Green demanded that the Secretary of State 'immediately' address the allegations, which if true 'pose a serious risk to our national security,' he claimed.

The congressman claimed he is talking to 'sources at multiple locations' who he said told him that the issues are not just happening at Fort Pickett.

'The real challenge here is directions from State. The DoD is getting its directions on how to handle these situations by the State Department. The State Department is failing to give them adequate information,' Green said.

'They don't know exactly how many are even there so they can't account for someone if they don't return.'

He added: 'And they are telling the people if you go and you don't come back, that will end your visa processing. If they want free, they are gone. There is nobody keeping them from leaving.'

Afghan refugees are being housed at a number of U.S. military bases around the world

Green claimed that the United States does not have biometric data such as fingerprints for a 'good portion' of the Afghan refugees and said it was possible that Taliban prisoners set free when the Afghan government was toppled could have arrived in the US.

'We can't really get information from State because they won't provide names, they want to provide any information on the people; the numbers that they have,' Green said.

'They won't even tell us how many American citizens they evacuated. We tried to get them that number requested through the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) the other day and I could not get that past. It is just crazy. This State Department is a complete failure.'

He added: 'So this is one of the greatest security risk this nation has ever had and this president and this State Department don't seem to care.'

Fort Bliss - one of seven military bases housing Afghan evacuees - is caring for refugees at a purpose-built housing area at the Dona Ana Range Complex (pictured) in New Mexico

The Department of Defense is providing transportation and temporary housing in support of Operation Allies Refuge. Pictured: Cots are lined up at the facility in preparation for the arrival of refugees

An official collecting donations for the camp told DailyMail.com most of the refugees arrived with nothing more than a change of clothes and would not be able to afford the $56 cost of an Uber ride to downtown El Paso as Cruz claimed

DailyMail.com exclusively reported last week from the remote Fort Bliss subcamp where Afghan refugees are being housed while awaiting new homes in the U.S.

The Texas army base is caring for the Afghan newcomers in a purpose-built housing area at the Dona Ana Range Complex just across the border in New Mexico.

The heavily guarded facility has been closed to the outside world since the first of the 2,160 Afghans currently at the camp arrived - with a heavy security presence made up of 1,000 soldiers and military cops patrolling the roads surrounding it.

When a DailyMail.com team attempted to visit, military police stopped us getting within a mile of the property and told us not to take photos from a distance.

While politicians from Texas and New Mexico have been allowed into the facility, their visits took place with a military escort  both Republican Senator Ted Cruz and Democrat Rep. Veronica Escobar were allowed in last week.

The heavily guarded facility has been closed to the outside world since the first of the 2,160 Afghans currently at the camp arrived. DailyMail.com has learned none of the refugees have left and they are expected to stay there until their applications are processed

President Biden announced on Sunday evening that the Department of Homeland Security would be the lead agency coordinating ongoing efforts across the federal government to resettle the Afghan refugees (pictured arriving in Virginia on Tuesday)

A spokesman for Fort Bliss told DailyMail.com that the Pentagon and the State Department are making decisions on visitors on a case-by-case basis  so far, no media organizations have been allowed in.

The heavily guarded facility was thrust into the spotlight this week following Cruz's visit. He claimed afterwards that refugees were getting Uber rides into downtown El Paso, 30 miles away.

'The leadership at Fort Bliss told me about one of the refugees who called an Uber and took an Uber to downtown El Paso and they are not detaining anyone there so if 10,000 refugees arrive there, every one of those 10,000 can choose to leave tomorrow,' he said after his visit.

Cruz also said he thinks Afghan refugees should be resettled in third countries rather than within the US.

But DailyMail.com can reveal that none of the Afghans at Dona Ana have left the camp and that most are expected to stay until their visa process has been completed and permanent housing has been found.

Asked whether an Uber could make it to Dona Ana, a soldier at the complex told DailyMail.com: 'No Afghans are getting Ubers. The Ubers would be stopped before they could get in there anyway.

'The Afghan refugees can leave once their paperwork has been processed. They have to wait for that before they go.

'The base is also being used for evacuated American citizens - American citizens with all their documents can leave any time they want.'

Ted Cruz claimed Afghan refugees can call an Uber to leave their holding location in the U.S. - above the Republican senator from Texas takes an aerial tour of Fort Bliss

George Elsaesser is the Executive Director of the Armed Forces YMCA El Paso which is handling donations for the Afghan families at Dona Ana.

He said most of the refugees had arrived with nothing more than a change of clothes after having their possessions taken by the Taliban and would not be able to afford the $56 cost of an Uber ride to downtown El Paso.

He told DailyMail.com: 'I personally don't appreciate that kind of rhetoric. I did not go on the tour of the facility or fly over it with Ted Cruz, I did not talk to Ted Cruz.

'On a personal level, it's a little annoying [to hear]. But he's a politician and politicians do what politicians do.'

Elsaesser added: 'The families would go to the airport with their bags and everything trying to get on the plane. The Taliban would end up stopping them.

'Every time they saw someone with a backpack or a bag, they would end up stopping them because they knew they were trying to travel.

'A lot of these families are leaving with nothing because if they have a bag, they get stopped so they have whatever they could fit in their pockets. That's what they have. They're showing up with their babies and the clothes on their backs.

'Fort Bliss is providing housing, a place to lay their head down and sleep, a place to eat, a place to take care of their family while they decide what we're going to do with these people.'
A former Army major turned terrorist who shot 13 dead at Fort Hood has congratulated the Taliban from his cell on death row and revealed his joy at Joe Biden's 'willingness to engage' with the extremist group.

'We Have Won!!!' wrote Nidal Hasan to his attorney, retired Army Col. John Galligan, in an August 18 letter first obtained by Washington Examiner.

'All-Praises be to All-Mighty Allah! Congratulations on your victory over those who hate for the Laws of All-Mighty God to be supreme on the land,' Hasan, 51, who committed the massacre in 2009, wrote from death row at Fort Leavenworth Prison in Kansas. He has been been in the jail since jurors recommended the death penalty back in August 2013.

Hasan's attorney specifically mentioned the Biden Administration when citing his client's response to the White House's lax policy towards the Taliban.

He said: 'I believe he is pleased to see that the Biden Administration is now seemingly willing to engage with the Taliban as de facto government in Afghanistan.

'The letter from my client Major Nidal Hasan does not come as any surprise  it reflects the deeply held convictions he has for his Islamic faith and his perceived value of Sharia Law,' Galligan told the Examiner.

'I pray to Allah that He helps you implement Shariah Law fully, correctly, and fairly.'

Shariah refers to a strict interpretation of Islamic law, with women forced to wear burqas, oftentimes from head-to-toe, and schools for girls banned.

Pictured: Maj. Nidal Hasan, the US Army doctor admitted to the shooting deaths of 13 people and the wounding of 31 others at Fort Hood, Texas, United States on November 5th 2009

The gunman convicted of murder in the shooting at Fort Hood, Texas, has since been sentenced to death

'We must learn from the nations of the past and not let our wretchedness overcome us thus earning His (God's) wrath,' Hasan continued. 'It is to All-Mighty God we give thanks!'

Hasan was a former American Army Major and Medical Corps psychiatrist when he shot and killed 13 people and injured over 30 others in the Fort Hood mass shooting on November 5, 2009.

Hasan's attorney added insult to injury while mocking the president for his disastrous handling of the Afghanistan situation.

'While Major Hasan has not changed his opinions about the Taliban, it would appear President Biden has done a complete about-face,' Galligan quipped.

SWAT team members converge on a building where a lone gunman went on a shooting spree November 5, 2009 at Fort Hood, Texas

The main gate at the US Army post at Fort Hood, Texas near Killeen is pictured

Meanwhile, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Biden is in 'no rush' to recognize the Taliban government, but she didn't close the door on the possibility pending 'what steps they take next.'

'There's no rush to recognition, and that will be planned dependent on what steps the Taliban takes,' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Tuesday.

'The world will be watching whether they allow for American citizens, whether they allow individuals to leave who want to, and how they treat women and girls around the country.'

Sgt. Anthony Sills, comforts his wife as they wait outside the Fort Hood Army Base. Their 3-year old son was in daycare on the base, which was in lock-down following the mass shooting

US Army first responders use a table as a stretcher to transport a wounded soldier to an awaiting ambulance at Fort Hood, November 5, 2009

Pictured: Taliban soldiers poses for photograph in Panjshir province northeastern of Afghanistan, Wednesday

Biden stuck to the August 31 deadline for the full withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan despite criticisms over leaving Americans and Afghan allies behind.

Just days before the deadline was up on August 26, an ISIS-K suicide attacker detonated an explosive outside of the Hamid Karzai International Airport, killing 13 US service members in the middle of Biden's chaotic evacuation effort.

At least 170 Afghans were also slaughtered in the blast.

Sgt. Alonzo Lunsford, who was shot seven times by Hasan in the mass shooting, including a grazing bullet to the head, offered a surprisingly forgiving take after hearing of the convicted terrorist's message to the Taliban.

'My response to him, personally, is I give all my praises to my God who taught me to be a forgiving person,' Lunsford said in an interview with Fox News on Wednesday.

'Allah is not the one who still has him taking in oxygen right now. Allah is not the one who spared his life. Allah is not the one who stopped me from wrapping my hands around his neck when I was less than three feet away from him in the court room.'
Covid cases could soon hit its peak as the reproductive rate of the virus falls below one for the first time since the NSW outbreak began - bringing locked-down Sydneysiders one step closer to freedom.

As NSW recorded 1,405 cases on Thursday Professor Adrian Esterman, an epidemiologist at the University of South Australia, indicated it may be a sign of a positive trend emerging.

'Another 1405 cases for NSW today. The five day moving average has dropped again to 1305, and the Reff has dropped below one for the first time since the outbreak started. It is starting to look very peakish,' wrote Professor Esterman on Twitter.

The reproductive rate indicates how many people each infected person passes the virus onto.

An effective reproductive rate or 'Reff' is a more complex form of modelling which takes into account population immunity, hospitalisations and social distancing.

Professor Adrian Esterman has been tracking NSW and Victoria's Reff rate since the beginning of the outbreak in June

Professor Esterman believes the decline in the reproductive rate of infections is due to higher vaccination rates

According to data collated by Prof Esterman, which is available to view online, the Reff recorded on Saturday in NSW was 1.21 and has been steadily declining since.

It reached 1.17 on Sunday, 1.13 on Monday, 1.08 on Tuesday and 1.01 on Wednesday before dropping to 0.96 on Thursday.

Based on modelling he is following from Chris Billington, a research fellow in physics at the University of Melbourne, Professor Esterman predicts case numbers - based on the declining Reff rate - will peak to 1,500 by September 15.

The sooner Covid cases reach its peak and the Reff rate declines - and stays - below one the closer Sydneysiders will edge towards freedom.

Dr Kerry chant said vaccination rates were promising but warned Sydneysiders who are 'starting to see the sun shine' and 'rays of hope' to a lockdown end, that it was up to the community to put in the hard yards

The encouraging data offers a ray of hope for Sydneysiders who endure their second month in lockdown.

NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant said the state's vaccination rates were likely to hit 80 per cent by Monday if it continues at its current pace.

'I'm really very excited by the way that the community is embracing immunisation. We'll get to 80% by Monday or Tuesday, and you can hold me to that,' Dr Chant said during Thursday's daily Covid press conference.

'But, please, community members, can you keep coming forward so I can stick to that?'

With vaccination now available for all 12 to 15-year-olds from September 13 and doses of Moderna arriving later in the month, the chief health officer said it gave her a 'degree of confidence.'

But Dr Chant warned Sydneysiders who are 'starting to see the sun shine' and 'rays of hope' to a lockdown end, that it was up to the community to put in the hard yards.

'Please do not take risks while we're in this period,' she warned.

'We do not need any super-spreading events. We do not need any seeding in the regions. We just do not need anything else as we work to drive the case numbers down and leverage our response off the back of the vaccine uptake that we've seen.'
Health experts who claimed Australia botched an opportunity to get millions of Pfizer doses last year have been proven right by bombshell emails showing Health Minister Greg Hunt blew off a meeting with the pharmaceutical giant.

University of NSW adjunct professor and strategic health policy consultant Bill Bowtell claimed in June that Australia could have had 40 million doses of Pfizer by January, a month before the first shipment of 142,000 doses landed on February 15.

'We could have had 40 million doses by the start of January and the same coverage rates of adults as seen in US, UK, and Israel,' he told Daily Mail Australia at the time.

Professor Bowtell and ABC medical reporter Dr Norman Swan said they each had three sources with knowledge of the negotiations, but their claims were strongly denied by Pfizer and Mr Hunt, who insisted a large order was never on the table.

Now leaked emails revealed on Wednesday show Pfizer asked to meet Mr Hunt to offer Australia bulk doses of its Covid-19 vaccine, but he instead sent a public servant in his place.

Pictured: A 12-year-old receives her first Covid-19 vaccination in Brisbane on Wednesday. Health experts who claimed Australia botched an opportunity to get millions of Pfizer doses last year have been vindicated by the release of government emails

THE BOMBSHELL EMAILS BETWEEN PFIZER AND THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT A high-ranking health bureaucrat was offered a meeting with senior global Pfizer bosses if Mr Hunt or departmental leadership was involved on June 30 last year. 'As the vaccine development landscape is moving swiftly, including through engagements with other nations, I am requesting this meeting occur at the earliest opportunity,' the company's representative said. The email also attached a letter to Mr Hunt requesting a meeting to open discussions about a potential vaccine deal. Pfizer said it could supply millions of doses to the world by the end of 2020 before scaling up to hundreds of millions in 2021. Health Department first assistant secretary Lisa Schofield replied three days later saying she, rather than the minister, would meet with the company. While the company wanted confidentiality agreements signed for a high-level pitch, an introductory meeting was instead agreed to on July 10. Health Department notes from the discussion show Pfizer wanted to speed up the process and rapidly deploy doses. Almost two weeks later, Pfizer told the government the UK and US had signed vaccine deals with the company. The minister's office first met with Pfizer representatives on August 4 and Australia's first 10 million-dose deal was signed on November 20. Advertisement

On June 30 last year a Pfizer representative contacted the health department to request the meeting, saying it had 'the potential to supply millions of vaccine doses [around the world] by the end of 2020'.

Health Department first assistant secretary Lisa Schofield replied three days later saying she, rather than the minister, would meet with the company.

While the company wanted confidentiality agreements signed for a high-level pitch, an introductory meeting was instead agreed to on July 10.

Health Department notes from the discussion show Pfizer wanted to speed up the process and rapidly deploy doses.

Professor Bowtell and Dr Swan on Thursday both said they felt vindicated by the emails released by the Labor opposition.

'It's maladministration (to put it mildly) that has had shocking human and economic consequences,' Professor Bowtell told Daily Mail Australia.

He added on Twitter: 'No secret that in mid-2020, both Pfizer and Moderna offered deals to countries to secure priority access but for very short time only.

Bill Bowtell, professor of strategic health policy at the University of NSW, claimed Australia was offered priority access to Pfizer and Moderna. The government rejects the claim

'Securing supply required swift action and top-level connection to seal the deal. Not done. This failure delayed vaccine rollout by six months.'

Mr Hunt's emails, at least the ones released this week, do not verify all of the pair's claims, and the health minister still disputes that more than 10 million doses were ever on offer and that the government struck a deal at the first opportunity.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Thursday followed this line, insisting Australia was not a priority while thousands were dying in the US and Europe.

'It was very clear to us that what we would have to do is ensure that we had a home manufactured vaccine (AstraZeneca),' he said.

'And so we were applying our efforts to ensure that we had the sovereign capability to produce vaccines here in Australia and not be reliant on what would be very uncertain supplies from overseas.'

Professor Bowtell claimed in June the government chose to focus on AstraZeneca because it was cheaper and the favoured option of government medical advisers.

He said the move cost Australia when the jab was linked to rare but serious blood clots, sparking mass hesitancy and throwing the rollout into chaos.

'This is not a matter of bad luck, it's a matter of decisions that were made by politicians in secret a year ago that has resulted in this mess. It was reckless,' he said.

Bill Bowtell, a professor of strategic health policy at the University of New South Wales, questioned the legitimacy of claims Australian officials based their decision on medical advice

Professor Bowtell called on the government to release the advice it was given by the medical experts at the time.

'All advice and documents around vaccine procurement should be published,' he said.

He said Australia should have 'backed multiple horses in the race and committed to several vaccines'.

Professor Bowtell, who led Australia's response to the AIDS crisis in the 1980s, claimed the critical advice that shaped the government's opinion of which vaccine was superior was 'not medical but commercial'.

He also said Australia would be in a far better position had the government secured more Pfizer vaccines.

Just days before Professor Bowtell and Dr Swan made their claims, the government announced Australia could only give the AstraZeneca vaccine to over-60s after seven people in their 50s developed rare blood clots due to the jab over the previous week.

Scientists in British Columbia, Canada work on the lipid nanoparticle delivery system used in the development of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. Pfizer contacted the Australian health department to request a meeting in June 2020, saying it had 'the potential to supply millions of vaccine doses [around the world]' by the end of that year

Gold Coast nurse Zoe Park receives Queensland's first Covid-19 vaccine from clinical nurse consultant Kellie Kenway at Gold Coast University Hospital

With a similar vaccination rate as the US and UK, Australia would have likely moved beyond circuit breaker lockdowns and would be more open to reopening international borders, Professor Bowtell said.

He insisted the government should have secured more deals, saying: 'We locked ourselves into something which we couldn't make quickly and we dragged out the approval process.

'This was a deliberate decision not to back every horse in the race, and it wasn't a medical one.'

Professor Bowtell argued there was no conclusive data for any vaccine available at the time of the Pfizer meetings 'so the decision was made for commercial and political reasons'.

Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt has denied claims he turned down more Pfizer

Dr Swan said he heard what happened in the July 10 meetings from three different sources, who were not the same ones as Professor Bowtell.

'Pfizer wanted to make Australia an example to the world about how to roll it (the vaccine) out, a bit like Israel, and they said how much do you want and when do you want it?' he told ABC radio Melbourne in June.

Dr Swan said he was told there was an 'inexperienced' procurement officer sent to the meeting who was 'pretty rude' to Pfizer's delegation.

'He said you've got to give us all the intellectual property, which is an amazing thing to have said, and started nickel and diming on the cost,' he said.

'The conversation essentially stopped and the federal government came back in November and only got 10 million doses.

'I'm just really angry, the level of incompetence is breathtaking and when you talk to people on the inside they say its worse than you'd ever imagine.'

Dr Swan said the government appeared to have been far too worried about cost in decision making, but the cost of vaccines paled in comparison to JobKeeper and of preventable lockdowns deep into 2021 with the country not vaccinated.

He calculated 18 seconds in a corridor in hotel quarantine, which caused the virus to leak out, cost Victoria $52.7 million a minute in lockdown.

Labor has slammed the government for not making deals with more vaccine manufacturers.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese believes government emails released under freedom of information laws show remarkable complacency.

The correct decision, and one made my most comparable nations, was to 'back multiple horses in the race' and commit to several vaccines

'This is Scott Morrison's lockdown. It is a direct consequence of a failure to secure supply,' he told reporters in Sydney on Thursday.

Opposition health spokesman Mark Butler told Sky News: 'There are very credible reports that Pfizer approached the government as early as June of last year for Australia to be one of the first countries to get access to their highly effective MRNA vaccine.

'And that those talks broke down because of some, from their perspective, pretty hard-line demands from the Australian Government about what it would take to get a deal.

'So Pfizer unsurprisingly went to Israel, went to the US, and went to the UK. They struck deals in July to get access to those vaccines. We didn't get a deal until November, which meant we were very late getting Pfizer.'

Staff at CSL are seen working in the lab on November 8, 2020 in Melbourne, Australia

Mr Hunt has repeatedly denied spurning Pfizer's attempts to secure a supply agreement earlier in 2020, maintaining the federal government took the 'earliest possible' deal.

'What we received was the earliest possible available and we received it in the quantities that they made available,' he told the Nine Network.

'That's because, understandably, they were focusing on mass death in the countries where they were producing.'

Pfizer also said in June there was no offer until November and it could then only provide 10 million doses because it had to also supply the rest of the world.

The company said in a statement: 'Claims raised about the meeting between Pfizer and the Australian Government on 10 July 2020 are incorrect.

'Pfizer proposed to the Australian Government the procurement of 10 million doses of our Covid-19 vaccine and that was the number initially contracted by the Government. The parties have since signed agreements for a further 30 million doses for 2021.'
The adoptive mother and brother of a nine-year-old boy who ran away to flee alleged abuse at their hands have been both charged with child abuse, WKRN reports.

Colette Gorman and her biological son Alvin Jensen were arrested for the charges in Cheatham County on Wednesday, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

Gorman, 66, was the adoptive mother of Jordan Gorman, who was reported missing back in November 2020.

The law enforcement agency eventually issued an Endangered Child Alert for Jordan on Nov. 15, 2020 before issuing an AMBER Alert for him the next day.

Jordan was ultimately found safe two days later on November 17 by search crews after the boy built a shack by a creek. The child constructed the structure about a mile away from his home with a tarp he found, he told authorities.

Colette Gorman, left, and her biological son Alvin Jensen, right, were arrested for the charges in Cheatham County on Wednesday

Jordan Gorman (pictured) was ultimately found safe on on November 17, two days after an AMBER Alert was issued

An investigation into the family showed that Gorman and Jensen often mistreated her adopted children, with Jordan fleeing the home to escape the abuse, according to WKRN.

The outlet reports that a Cheatham County grand jury indicted Gorman on six counts of aggravated child abuse, neglect and endangerment, while Jensen was hit with one count of the same offense.

Meanwhile, Gorman is being held on $550,000 bond while Jensen on $100,000 bond.

News 2 was at the Cheatham County jail as Gorman turned herself in and declined to offer a comment while covering her face from the news cameras.

Meanwhile, Jensen was brought into the jail in handcuffs, telling the outlet 'I don't really know what's going on' when asked for comment.

The 9-year-old boy built a shack by a creek and constructed the it about a mile away from his home with a tarp he found, he told authorities

Jordan is checked out by a Tennessee Bureau of Investigation employee after he was found in the woods near his home

An investigation into the family showed that Gorman and Jensen often mistreated her adopted children, with Jordan fleeing the home to escape the abuse

Cheatham County Sheriff Mike Breedlove described the allegations and subsequent child abuse charges among the worst hes seen in his law enforcement career, saying the abuse appeared to have gone on for a long time before expressing relief over the relatively happy ending over the boy's safe return.

'There was quite a bit of evidence that there was quite a bit of physical abuse occurring in the household over a period of timethat was one of these cases had such a happy ending. We were able to locate and bring him back, but with that it opened up whole another level of investigation,' the sheriff told News 2.

Gormans husband was not charged alongside his wife and biological son, with the sheriff saying there is no evidence to suggest his culpability.

Jordan's biological father, Aaron Hatt, told WKRN that the child had entered into the foster care system about two years ago when he went missing last year, and that his son now has a new last name.

It's still unclear as of Thursday morning where Jordan will be placed following the arrests of his foster mother and brother
NHS workers furiously hit out against 'blunt instrument' plans to make Covid jabs for staff compulsory by winter, despite the vast majority of medics already immunised.

Top doctors and health service unions warned the policy could push out key staff 'at a time we can least afford it' and lead to discrimination.

The Government today launched a six-week consultation into plans to make vaccination a legal requirement to work with NHS patients.

Yet figures show 88 per cent of NHS staff are fully vaccinated and around 92 per cent have had a first dose, despite being first offered a jab last December.

The numbers are slightly lower in London, where there has been more hesitancy about vaccination, with only 86 per cent have had a first jab. There are about 1.2million frontline staff in the health service in England.

Under the plans, around 120,000 frontline NHS staff who are still not vaccinated could be required by law to be jabbed to reduce transmission in hospitals.

President of the hospital doctors' union the HCSA Dr Claudia Paoloni said using the 'blunt instrument of compulsion rather than persuasion' will put off hesitant key workers.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) expressed hostility at the plans too, and raised doubts that the plans would even increase uptake.

And the NHS Confederation  which represents NHS trusts across England  said 'the focus must remain on increasing vaccine confidence' rather than forcing staff to take jabs.

A member of the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)  an independent body that advises the Government on vaccine policy  today said making jabs mandatory would feel 'like an admission of failure'.

Figures show around 92 per cent of NHS trust staff have received one dose of a vaccine, with 88 per cent of staff having received both doses. The figures are lower in London, where only 86 per cent have had a first jab

The Government today launched a six-week consultation into plans to make vaccination a legal requirement to work with NHS patients. Pictured: Professor NHS consultant Andrew Pollard, director of the Oxford Vaccine Group who helped develop the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, receiving a jab in January

Uptake among health workers is slightly less than the national average for over-18s in England, with 88.5 per cent having taken up the offer of a first dose.

Those who refuse the jab could be barred from working with patients, meaning that they will likely be redeployed or risk losing their jobs. Social Care Minister Helen Whately today said staff who reject the vaccine could be moved back to office roles.

But NHS bosses fear it could trigger a staffing crisis, hampering efforts to tackle the enormous care backlog. They warned it could be discriminatory.

A study in the BMJ in February found rates among ethnic minority doctors and healthcare staff were significantly lower than rates among white staff.

The plans would also require NHS staff to be vaccinated against the flu, amid warnings that the UK will be hit with a bad bout this winter due to a lack of natural immunity.

It would bring the NHS in line with the care sector, where staff working in elderly care homes are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid.

Now NHS wants to hire 270k bosses: Recruitment drive fuels fears over where extra cash raised by social care reforms will be going The NHS will hire dozens of new executives on salaries of up to 270,000  to make sure the new 36billion health and social care tax is spent wisely. The revelation fuelled growing fears about where the extra cash raised by Boris Johnson's controversial reforms will be going. Health Secretary Sajid Javid promised yesterday to be 'watchful for any waste and wokery' over the 12billion a year raised by a 1.25 percentage point increase in national insurance. But critics slammed the creation of 42 chief executives of integrated care boards in England, whose job will be to 'deliver joined-up services' across the NHS and social care. Online job adverts reveal each executive will be paid an average of 223,261. Seven jobs are advertised with salaries of 270,000, which is 80 per cent more than the Prime Minister earns. According to the job adverts, successful candidates will need to be 'politically astute' and 'actively champion diversity, inclusion, and equality of opportunity for all'. Jake Berry, head of the Northern Research Group of Tories, said: 'Throwing other people's money down a bottomless pit doesn't become a good idea if you put the NHS logo next to it.' Advertisement

The Government announced vaccinations will be compulsory for all care workers from November 11, despite warnings that tens of thousands of carers could leave the profession as a result.

And unions have hit out at plans to extend the policy to all NHS staff this winter.

HCSA boss Dr Paoloni said: 'Our concern is that using the blunt instrument of compulsion rather than persuasion to ensure staff are vaccinated we could risk pushing out key NHS staff at a time when we can least afford it.

'The government itself acknowledges the variance in vaccine take-up between employers ranging from 74 to 94 percent. We know that many hospitals have been extremely successful in persuading apprehensive staff to be vaccinated.

'We encourage all NHS staff to be vaccinated but this is one part of a much bigger equation.

'Covid vaccination rates in the NHS have been high for a large part of the pandemic, but experience shows we also need measures to limit transmission in the community, maintain tough infection control in hospitals and provide adequate levels of PPE and regular testing for staff.'

The RCN pushed back against the plans, arguing the majority of staff 'accept the vaccine' and the Government's focus should be on communicating the benefits of jabs, not forcing them into people's arms.

Helen Donovan, professional lead for public health, said: 'All nursing staff should have any vaccine deemed necessary to help protect themselves, patients, colleagues, family members, and the wider community.

'This has always included the flu vaccine and more recently the Covid vaccine.

'We do, however, have concerns around mandating vaccines and whether this will ultimately improve uptake.

'The majority of all nursing staff accept vaccination, the Department of Health and Social Care's own figures show 92 per cent of NHS staff have had their first dose and 88 per cent both doses of the Covid vaccine.

'The focus should be on communicating the benefits of vaccination rather than making them mandatory.

'Involving staff in this consultation will help them to become further involved in the decision making and it is vital their views are properly taken into account over the next steps.'

The NHS Confederation argued that compulsory vaccination is unnecessary because NHS staff are 'overwhelmingly doing the right thing'.

Matthew Taylor, the body's chief executive, said: 'NHS organisations have been working hard to encourage uptake of the vaccination among all eligible members of the workforce and will continue to do so, especially with members of staff in groups where uptake is lower.

'As it stands, the vast majority of NHS staff have already chosen to be vaccinated, and the important thing is to make sure those who have yet to be vaccinated are supported to do so.

'Members will continue to emphasise education and communication with staff, which will be crucial even if the government mandates vaccination for NHS staff.'

He continued: 'We will also work closely with our trade union colleagues to address the concerns of their members and to ensure that the implementation of any decision is handled sensitively.

'We will need to understand the detail of the proposals, but the focus must remain on increasing vaccine confidence and the approach taken to date to encourage uptake through informed consent remains the preferred option.'

Mrs Whately said there were people who could not have the vaccine for medical reasons but those who decline the jab could lose their frontline jobs.

She told Times Radio: 'You can look at whether there are alternative ways somebody could be deployed, for instance, in a role that doesn't involve frontline work, or doesn't involve being physically in the same setting as the patient, whether it's, for instance, working on 111, something like that.

'So we could look at alternative roles for individuals, these are exactly the sorts of things that we can investigate.'

But JCVI member Professor Adam Finn told BBC Radio 4's Today programme this morning that compulsory jabbing of all NHS staff would imply messaging was not effective enough.

Professor Finn, a professor of paediatrics at the University of Bristol, said: 'It's a kind of an admission of failure.

'It's like saying you can't either find the time or find the ability to explain to people why it makes sense and create the culture in which everybody does it because they understand why it's important.

'If you build a culture, it becomes the norm and everybody does it.'

But he added that he understood why it is being considered.

'We are in a pandemic and so things sometimes get done differently,' he said.

Will taxpayers get ANYTHING back for the NHS's extra 10bn? Cash injection will be 'gobbled up' and there is NO chance of clearing waiting lists British taxpayers were warned today that Boris Johnson's manifesto-busting 30billion NHS handout will be 'gobbled up' permanently by the health service, with waiting lists and delays here to stay. The Prime Minister promised the extra 10billion a year to clear the mammoth backlog that has amassed during the pandemic, on top of 5.4billion cash boost announced for the NHS only a couple of days ago. But the handout has been given to the NHS without any firm targets to meet, which has raised fears the money will simply be swallowed. NHS bosses have already complained the sum isn't enough to clear the backlog. Under proposals, half of the 10bn a year will be spent on social care in 2023 before the full amount is devoted to the care sector in 2025 and, in theory, the NHS reverts to its normal budget. Critics have raised doubts about the plan, claiming that if the NHS goes on a recruitment spree to plug staffing gaps then a higher budget will become 'baked into the system'. Announcing the tax hike yesterday, Mr Johnson said the cash would go towards nine million more checks, scans and procedures by the end of 2025, as part of the 'biggest catch-up programme in the NHS's history'. He promised to boost NHS capacity for routine operations by 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, hire 50,000 more nurses and open new surgical hubs to deliver extra operations and other procedures. By 2025, around 40 per cent of all of day-to-day Government spending will go to the the Department of Health and Social Care, which funds the health service, according to the Resolution Foundation. The conservative think-tank, the Institute for Economic Affairs (IEA), warned the cash boost will almost entirely be spent on hiring new staff and increasing wages, which will be hard to recoup after 2025. Julian Jessop, an economics fellow at the IEA, said: 'There is a risk that a temporary increase in spending on the NHS, to fix a temporary problem, becomes baked into the system, particularly via higher pay. 'Without fundamental reform, the NHS is black hole which will swallow any money spent on it, leaving nothing extra for social care.' The left-wing Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) said the funding is 'nothing like enough to get through the backlog', with the NHS alone needing 15billion per year to address the waiting list. NHS England was already 38,952 nurses short at the end of June and it is not clear how quickly surgical hubs could take to set up or how they will be staffed. A record 5.5million people were on the waiting list for routine operations and treatments  such as hip and knee replacements  at the end of June and with data for July due out tomorrow, that figure is expected to further soar. Advertisement

The six-week consultation process will take views on whether vaccine requirements should apply for health and wider social care workers  those in contact with patients and people receiving care.

It would mean only those who are fully vaccinated, unless medically exempt, could be deployed to deliver health and care services.

The Government previously said all staff in registered care homes in England must be vaccinated against Covid from November 11, unless medically exempt.

A government source told The Times: 'It's only right that those who are caring for people who are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus should be vaccinated. This will save lives.' They added that Boris Johnson had personally backed the plan for mandatory vaccination for NHS workers.

Vaccines minister Nadhim Zahawi said on Sunday the move was 'right and responsible' as NHS staff looking after vulnerable patients have a 'duty of care' to get inoculated.

But Chaand Nagpaul, chair of the Council of the British Medical Association, said in June that 'compulsion is a blunt instrument' and that implementing a blanket rule would 'raise new ethical and legal implications'.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) Social Care Working Group has already advised the overlap between the sectors makes a strong scientific case for there to be similar approaches to vaccination.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said the consultation would focus on the proposals, their scope, and any potential impact mandating vaccines could have on staffing and safety such as reducing staff sickness absence.

The process will also seek views on whether flu vaccines should be a requirement for health and care workers.

Findings will then help inform decision-making around how the mandate could be implemented and who could be exempt.

Staff, healthcare providers, stakeholders, patients and their families are being urged to take part, with a final decision expected this winter.

According to the DHSC, around 92 per cent of NHS trust staff have received one dose of a Covid vaccine, with 88 per cent of staff having received both doses.

However, the DHSC says new data shows uptake rates between NHS trusts can vary from around 78 per cent to 94 per cent for both doses.

National flu vaccination rates in the health service have increased from 14 per cent in 2002 to 76 per cent last year.

But in some settings, rates are as low as 53 per cent.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid urged all health and social care staff to be vaccinated, regardless of the outcome of the consultation.

He said: 'Many patients being treated in hospitals and other clinical settings are most at risk of suffering serious consequences of Covid, and we must do what we can to protect them.

'It's so clear to see the impact vaccines have against respiratory viruses which can be fatal to the vulnerable, and that's why we're exploring mandatory vaccines for both Covid and flu.

'We will consider the responses to the consultation carefully but, whatever happens, I urge the small minority of NHS staff who have not yet been jabbed to consider getting vaccinated  for their own health as well as those around them.'

The care industry has previously expressed concern over the effect mandatory vaccination may have on the sector's already-stretched staffing levels.

Last month, the Institute of Health and Social Care Management (IHSCM) surveyed more than 1,000 care managers in partnership with the PA news agency.

The survey found that nine in 10 managers said their workplace was experiencing staff shortages or having difficulty recruiting.

A third of managers (32.8 per cent) said they had staff quit or hand in their notice over the requirement to be vaccinated, while more than half (55.2 per cent) said they feared they would have to dismiss staff over the coming months because they had not been vaccinated.
Mark McGowan is 'underselling' Western Australians by warning his state border could stay shut until April, Scott Morrison said today.

The pro-lockdown premier said on Wednesday that he will open up when more than 80 per cent of his residents are fully vaccinated - but warned this could be up to seven months away.

'Somewhere above 80 per cent we'll try and set the date. I don't know whether it'll be February, March or April, I suspect it will be one of those months,' he told The West Australian newspaper.

Mark McGowan is 'underselling' Western Australians by warning his state border could stay shut until April, said Scott Morrison (pictured in a press conference on Thursday)

Mr McGowan is pictured before unveiling his state's budget on Thursday

The Prime Minister on Thursday said this timeframe was ultra-conservative because there will be enough vaccine in Australia for everyone to get their jab by October.

'I think he's underselling Western Australians,' Mr Morrison told reporters in Canberra on Thursday.

'I think they'll get vaccinated sooner than that.

'He's making assumptions that Western Australians won't get vaccinated until some time in January.

'I don't think Western Australians will be that complacent. I don't. I have a bigger confidence in Western Australians about their wanting to re-engage with the rest of the country and with the rest of the world.

'Western Australians look out, they don't look in. And, I know that Western Australians will be keen to move on and get on. That's the Western Australian spirit,' he said.

Mr Morrison said the country needs to learn to live with Covid-19 after 18 months of restrictions and lockdowns.

Western Australia faces being cut off from the rest of the country long after international travel returns to other states

'If you want to live with the virus you inevitably have to pass down that tunnel, and that will be true in every single state and territory in the country,' he said.

'My advice to Western Australia is get vaccinated and get ready, get your hospital system ready, get your health system ready, and push through and we can all reconnect and be one again.'

Health Minister Greg Hunt also said he hoped the domestic borders would not still be in place next year.

'I would absolutely hope not, because this is about families coming together, about parents separated from children, grandparents that have never seen their grandchildren, people coming for funerals and weddings and births - the great events of life, the very stuff of our humanity,' he told 6PR radio.

'And I am absolutely certain that there are no barriers to Western Australia achieving 80 per cent, not just this year but well inside this year. Now's the chance to push.'

WA Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) said his state won't open the border until 80-90 per cent of the state are fully-vaccinated

Mr McGowan previously said he wouldn't allow interstate travel to or from WA until more than 80 per cent of locals are fully vaccinated - but was yet to confirm when he expects that target to be reached.

He has since declared the domestic border may remain shut until April 2022, while boasting the international travel ban - which has seen thousands of Australians stranded abroad and even more locked in their own country - has been good for his economy.

The Covid-zero premier said he will wait until his state reaches between 80 and 90 per cent vaccination rates to open up.

Western Australia - along with Queensland - is currently lagging behind the rest of the country in the vaccine rollout with about 36 per cent of residents fully-jabbed.

Even once the 80 per cent milestone is reached Mr McGowan confirmed he will still keep families apart for another month-and-half to two months before he removes the border restrictions.

Mr McGowan also ridiculed comments by federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, who said his hardline stance on border closures would mean Australians would be able to travel to Canada before they could get to Perth.

Perth has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the country at about 36 per cent of people fully jabbed (pictured, residents in the city's CBD in June during a previous snap lockdown)

'I am not that worried about it. I don't understand why people are worried about that,' he said.

'I am more worried about getting the virus under control in NSW, Victoria and the ACT and also keeping our people safe, as to when I can fly to British Columbia.

'That seems to me to be a secondary consideration.'

For WA residents that do want to go overseas, Budget papers released this week reveal they will have to wait 12 months with a September 2022 estimated date to reopen international travel.

Mr McGowan is in no rush, claiming the international travel ban has been a positive for WA's economy.

'There's an assumption of a big economic downside impact when international borders open because we lose a lot of spending power in retail, hospitality, housing - everything - to international travel,' he said.

'We've got to, obviously, open eventually but it's been a remarkable economic boom for Australia not having international borders open because for every international tourist that arrives, there's way more than one Australian that goes overseas and we spend more.'

Perth was recently given the AFL Grand Final after the event couldn't be played in locked down Melbourne (pictured, Perth AFL fans)
Taliban authorities have agreed to let 200 American civilians and other non-Afghans to depart on charter flights from Kabul airport, a U.S. official said.

The Taliban were pressed to allow the departures by U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, said the official, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity on Thursday.

The departures were expected on Thursday, and an exact breakdown of how many US citizens and people from other nations will be on the flight has not been shared.

The official could not say whether these Americans and third-country nationals were among people who have been stranded for days in Mazar-i-Sharif 260 miles north of Kabul on charter flights that were barred from taking off.

Planes chartered to carry people out of Afghanistan have been stuck at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, with some organizers saying the State Department was not doing enough to facilitate their departure.

The criticism came after an email leak suggested that the agency prevented several private flights from leaving Afghanistan with U.S. citizens and Afghan allies on board.

Taliban authorities have agreed to let 200 American civilians and third country nationals depart on charter flights from Kabul airport. The Kabul Airport is seen above

Grounded planes are seen at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, where hundreds of evacuees have been stuck and unable to leave Afghanistan in a standoff between the US and Taliban

Blinken met with refugees at the U.S. Air Base in Ramstein, Germany on Wednesday as the State Department faces criticism after leaked emails show it refused to let privately chartered planes land at the Doha, Qatar U.S. military base, even if they have Americans on board

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday went on a charm offensive, saying the Taliban was to blame for the standoff and calling on the militants to allow the charter flights to depart from Afghanistan.

Blinken said the United States was doing everything in its power to get the flights off the ground, but the Taliban was not permitting the flights to depart.

'We've made clear to all parties, we've made clear to the Taliban that these charters need to be able to depart,' Blinken said at a press conference in Germany.

The remarks came as Blinken met with Afghan refugees at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany. He also met with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas as the two counterparts discussed cooperation in efforts to process and resettle Afghan refugees.

The two will hold a virtual 20-nation meeting on the crisis from the southwestern German U.S. Air Base.

The administration still insists there are only around 100 Americans left to be evacuated, while volunteer groups leading private evacuation efforts and Republicans claim there are more like 500 U.S. citizens still trying to get out.

Six planes chartered to evacuate Americans and allies from Afghanistan were blocked from leaving by the Taliban, it emerged over the weekend.

Blinken speaks to members of the US embassy and Mission Afghanistan in the Qatari capital Doha on Tuesday. Blinken blamed the Taliban for blocking charter flights

The de-facto ruler of Afghanistan, Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, is seen in a file photo

The State Department also refused to green light privately chartered flights out of Afghanistan that could have evacuated US citizens and Afghan special immigrant visa applicants, leaked emails reportedly show.

The Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the US since August 17 from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation formally known as Operation Allies Welcome.

DHS said in the latest updated released Wednesday that 17 percent of those arrivals are U.S. citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government there fell to the Taliban.

The remaining 83 percent are a mix of people. They include those with Special Immigrant Visas, for people who worked as interpreters or in some other capacity for the U.S. or NATO.

There are also other visa holders as well as applicants for visas who have not yet completed their processing. The remainder are various types of 'vulnerable' Afghans who would be threatened under the Taliban, such as women and human rights advocates.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through 'multi-layered' security vetting but he declined to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.
Furious residents in a locked down public housing tower in Sydney have made defiant gestures from their balconies while supporters protest below.

Those in controlled buildings across NSW are being restricted to six drinks per day and claim their deliveries are being opened and searched by authorities.

The state's health department have introduced the drink limit in 'controlled buildings' and claim the measure will 'ensure the safety of health staff and residents'.

Residents in the Common Ground tower are complaining about their extraordinary lack of freedom

Residents in the Common Ground tower look on as police and volunteers carry donated food and games into the building

A handmade sign on one balcony reads 'class war' hinting to the lack of the same restrictions in other areas of the state

Common Ground in Camperdown, a housing commission building in Sydney's inner-west, is the latest building to fall under a full lockdown after several cases were reported in the complex - with locals complaining about an extraordinary denial of freedoms.

Supporters of the residents have come out onto the streets outside the building, waving flags and holding up signs protesting against these strict restrictions.

One resident has also flown a hand-made sign from their balcony that reads 'class war', saying that the residents of the tower feel as though they are being treated differently to others in the state.

'Hey NSW Police, Common Ground residents are wondering what happened to the alcohol and tobacco items dropped of to them last night?' resident and artist Ms Saffaa posted to Twitter.

'And under which powers are you allowed to confiscate them? Last time I checked these are legal to consume in this country.'

One Nation MP Mark Latham was outraged by the booze limit and the intrusion of 'health' measures into people's legal rights.

'Is there any limit to the fascist tendencies of this NSW Liberal Government? Is this really what Menzies intended?' Mr Latham tweeted.

Supporters of Common Ground residents have protested against their strict restrictions

Locals have shown up in support of the residents who are trapped in their homes, unable to go out and purchase their own essential goods

The Common Ground building, sponsored by Mission Australia, includes 104 units, many of which providing homes for homeless people throughout the area.

The building was cast into an extreme lockdown nearly two weeks ago after four cases were confirmed on the site.

It was scheduled to last for 14 days.

Residents have received food from charities, but have only received a box of canned food lacking nutritional value.

Police and volunteers are helping to carry donated food and games into the building.

People living inside the complex have received packages opened by NSW Police to check the contents inside before handing to recipients

People say despite paying for alcohol, they are only being rationed six beers or pre-mixed drinks, a bottle of wine or 375ml bottle of spirits per day

Ms Saffaa said neighbours have complained that their packages are all arriving clearly previously opened, claiming officials have crudely stuck the parcels back together

Residents are only allowed to have either six beers or pre-mixed drinks, one bottle of wine or one 375ml bottle of spirits.

Excess alcohol is being confiscated until the lockdown rules are lifted.

These restrictions are the same as those locked in hotel quarantine after arriving from overseas.

Residents are not happy with the conditions they have been made to live it, with most residents having already experienced homelessness or insecure housing.

'A member of our community has delivered multiple hampers of fresh food, alcohol, and cigarettes, however the alcohol and some cigarette packs have been removed,' Ms Saffaa said.

'NSW police are systematically searching our package, mail, and our belongings and now we have items missing.'

Health officials say the measures are for the residents' own good and that of their neighbours.

'In all residential lockdown locations, NSW Police are there to ensure compliance with the Public Health Orders and assist NSW Health if required,' a police spokesperson said.

Residents have had food provided from charities, but they've only received a box of canned food lacking nutritional value

Ms Saffaa said neighbours have complained that their packages are all arriving clearly opened, claiming officials have crudely stuck the parcels back together.

'My packages have been arriving sealed. However, my neighbour received a package from a department store. The seal was broken then re taped with clear tape,' she posted to Twitter.

'My neighbour contacted the store and they reassured him that the package was sealed when it left their premises.'

Returning Australians from overseas have experienced similar controls in hotel quarantine, with people having items such as toasters confiscated by staff.

Ms Saffaa also complained of being interrupted at all times of the day and night by workers including nurses, asking questions and repeatedly performing tests.

NSW recorded one of the deadliest days of the pandemic on Wednesday with nine people recorded as dying with Covid including a man in his 20s - all of whom had significant underlying health problems - and a further 1,480 positive tests.
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North Korea has staged a nighttime military parade, with personnel in orange hazmat suits, tractors, and fire engines taking centre stage, rather than the usual missiles.

The celebration, which marked the 73rd anniversary of the country's foundation, featured rows of people marching in orange hazmat suits with medical-grade masks in an apparent symbol of anti-coronavirus efforts.

It took place agains the backdrop of a worsening economic crisis, with self-imposed coronavirus border closures aggravating shortages of food, medicine and fuel in the reclusive state.

A slim-looking Kim Jong Un was seen among the unmasked crowds smiling to onlookers and hugging children at the event, which began at midnight on Wednesday in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung square, according to the official KCNA news agency.

The leader, who almost always wears a Mao suit at official functions, was dressed in a Western-style suit and tie and did not deliver a speech at the event.

On Thursday, Rodong Sinmun, the ruling Worker's Party's newspaper, published photographs of the hazmat-suited members of the Worker-Peasant Red Guards, the country's largest civilian defence force.

North Korea has staged a nighttime military parade, with personnel in orange hazmat suits (pictured), tractors, and fire engines taking centre stage, rather than the usual missiles

The overnight event in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung square on Wednesday marked the 73rd anniversary of the foundation of North Korea

A slim-looking Kim Jong Un (centre) was seen among the unmasked crowds smiling to onlookers and hugging children at the event

The parade took place agains the backdrop of a worsening economic crisis, with self-imposed coronavirus border closures aggravating shortages of food, medicine and fuel in the reclusive state

The celebration featured rows of people marching in orange hazmat suits with medical-grade masks in an apparent symbol of anti-coronavirus efforts. Pictured: People watch the parade at a train station in Seoul, South Korea

Fireworks lit up the sky above Pyongyang during the elaborate parade, which experts say was intended to signal a focus on domestic issues

'The columns of emergency epidemic prevention and the Ministry of Public Health were full of patriotic enthusiasm to display the advantages of the socialist system all over the world, while firmly protecting the security of the country and its people from the worldwide pandemic,' the KCNA said.

North Korea, which shares an 840-mile border with China, has not confirmed any COVID-19 cases, but experts say the virus is present in the country.

North Korea was the first country to close its borders in January 2020, and has imposed strict prevention measures, seeing the pandemic as a matter of national survival.

The parade also featured detachments from the railways ministry, Air Koryo and the Hungnam Fertilizer Complex, KCNA said.

Images showed rifle-carrying students and mechanised paramilitary units, none of whom were wearing masks, marching in the central square.

Some conventional weapons were also on display, including multiple rocket launchers and tractors carrying anti-tank missiles.

But no ballistic missiles were seen or mentioned in the reports, and Kim did not deliver any speech, unlike last October when he boasted of the country's nuclear capabilities and showcased previously unseen intercontinental ballistic missiles during a pre-dawn military parade.

It was the first time since 2013 that North Korea staged a parade with the 5.7 million strong Worker-Peasant Red Guards, launched as reserve forces after the exit of Chinese forces who fought for the North in the 1950-53 Korean War.

The parade also featured detachments from the railways ministry, Air Koryo and the Hungnam Fertilizer Complex, KCNA news agency said. Pictured: Soldiers perform in the parade

Pictured: Military personnel take place in the parade overnight on Wednesday, in front of huge crowds of mostly maskless onlookers

Kim (centre), who almost always wears a Mao suit at official functions, was dressed in a Western-style suit and tie and did not deliver a speech at the event

Pictured: A military cavalry take part in the parade marking the 73rd anniversary of the rounding of North Korea

Experts said the parade, the third of its kind in 12 months, was intended to shore up morale among North Koreans and 'give them something to enjoy'

The biggest weapons on display were small artillery pieces dragged by tractors, with KCNA saying they were driven by co-operative farm workers 'to pound the aggressors and their vassal forces with annihilating firepower in case of emergency'.

And instead of the giant missiles - whether real or models - that are the usual climax to a military parade, the last unit to enter the square was the public security forces' fire brigade.

Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, said the perceived absence of strategic weapons and the focus on public security forces showed Kim is focused on domestic issues such as Covid-19 and the economy.

'The parade seems to be strictly designed as a domestic festival aimed at promoting national unity and solidarity of the regime,' Yang said.

'There were no nuclear weapons and Kim didn't give a message while being there, which could be meant to keep the event low-key and leave room for manoeuvre for future talks with the United States and South Korea.'

Pictured: People in Seoul watch North Korean leader Kim Jong Un waving to crowds at a parade in Pyongyang

Ecstatic crowds waving the North Korean flag cheer as Kim (centre on balcony) waves during the parade

Parades in North Korea often feature ballistic missiles and are seen as being a show of military strength intended to catch the attention of international

Experts say Wednesday's event 'seems to be strictly designed as a domestic festival aimed at promoting national unity and solidarity of the regime'

A North Korea expert said the absence of nuclear weapons or a speech by Kim 'could be meant to keep the event low-key and leave room for manoeuvre for future talks with the United States and South Korea'

Talks aimed at persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile arsenals have stalled since 2019.

U.S. President Joe Biden's administration has said it will explore diplomacy to achieve North Korean denuclearisation, but has shown no willingness to meet North Korean demands for an easing of sanctions.

A reactivation of inter-Korean hotlines in July raised hopes for a restart of the denuclearisation talks. But the North stopped answering the calls as South Korea and the United States held their annual military exercises last month, which Pyongyang has warned could trigger a security crisis.

Last month, the UN atomic agency (IAEA) said Pyongyang appeared to have started its plutonium-producing reprocessing reactor at Yongbyon, calling it a 'deeply troubling' development, and Kim's sister and key adviser Kim Yo Jong demanded the withdrawal of US troops from the peninsula.

Pyongyang has previously used parades to send messages to audiences abroad and at home, usually timing them to coincide with anniversaries.

At the last one in January - days before Joe Biden's inauguration as US president - submarine-launched ballistic missiles rolled through Kim Il Sung Square in front of a grinning Kim Jong Un, with the official KCNA news agency describing them as the 'world's most powerful weapon'.

Prior to the parade, a dinner with Kim (centre in grey suit) and others in Pyongyang to celebrate the 73rd anniversary of the country's founding

Pictured: Kim (centre in grey suit) and others pose for an official photograph to mark the 73rd anniversary of the foundation of North Korea

Pyongyang has previously used parades to send messages to audiences abroad and at home, usually timing them to coincide with anniversaries

Photos released by North Korea's official KCNA news agency on Thursday shows soldiers marching in the parade while an orchestra played and crowd waved flags

Pictured: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (centre) greets attendees at celebrations to mark the 73rd anniversary of the country's founding

North Korea has staged three elaborate displays in the space of 12 months, which experts say is unusually frequent.

It has not carried out a nuclear test or an intercontinental ballistic missile launch since 2017.

Instead, Pyongyang has looked to exploit parades without risking escalation, said Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul.

'The only other way to show off their strategic weapons is to launch them, which carries the risk of sparking protest and further international sanctions,' he told AFP news agency.

'The North must have felt a need to apply pressure to the US to come to the negotiating table' on its terms, he added.

At the same time, North Korea is under a self-imposed Covid-19 blockade, having closed its borders to protect against the coronavirus that first emerged in neighbouring China, adding to the pressure on its moribund economy.

Domestically the parade was an opportunity to shore up morale and 'mass solidarity for the regime', Hong Min added.

'Taking place in the dead of night, it gives the public something to enjoy.'

North Korea has staged three elaborate displays in the space of 12 months, which experts say is unusually frequent

North Korea has not carried out a nuclear test or an intercontinental ballistic missile launch since 2017 and has attempted to exploit parades without risking escalation, an expert said

Pictured: Soldiers take part in the parade in Pyongyang's Kim Il Sung square on Wednesday night

Pictured: A canine military unit takes part in the anniversary parade in Pyongyang
A married romance fraudster who posed as a single big-shot businessman to con a lonely woman out of 47,650has been jailed for three years.

Callous Qaiser Saeed, 40, hoodwinked his oblivious target, 39, out of her life savings after befriending her online.

The Casanova conman spent four months showering his victim with compliments and dripping false details about himself, including lies he was single and owned his own company.

Ironically his hustle saw him claim his bank account had been frozen due to him being a victim of fraud.

He then tricked his target into transferring large sums of money into his account that he claimed would pay his employees' wages until his account was unfrozen.

In reality, Saeed was a married man with children who worked as a security guard.

Heartless hearthrob Saeed exposed in his mugshot as the cruel fraudster he was

Saeed, of Hayes, appeared at Isleworth Crown Court on Tuesday where he was sentenced to three years imprisonment for fraud by false representation.

He was previously found guilty of the offence by a jury at Barbican Nightingale Court on September 3, 2020.

Detectives first arrested him on April 10, 2014 on suspicion of fraud but after he was freed on bail he fled the country to Pakistan in an attempt to evade justice.

He appeared at Isleworth Crown Court on Tuesday where he was sentenced to three years

Five years later, on September 30, 2019, he flew into Heathrow on a student Visa.

To his surprise he was arrested at the airport on suspicion of fraud and was charged the following day with fraud by false representation.

Detective Sergeant James Harbour said: 'Qaiser Saeed wilfully deceived the victim telling lie upon lie in order to deceive her into parting with her money.

'Scammers, such as Saeed, are skilled liars who weave a complex web of falsehoods in order to manipulate vulnerable or trusting people, playing on their emotions before taking their money under false pretences.

'Anyone can fall victim, regardless of age or gender. It is not unusual for victims to feel too embarrassed to tell police or a trusted person, or they may continue to believe that the suspect is telling them the truth as the reality of being scammed by someone they cared about is too difficult to contemplate.

'I urge anyone who has fallen victim to this type of fraud to get in touch with police straight away. There is nothing to be embarrassed about and you will be supported by officers who understand how this despicable crime works and will support you.'
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Thunderstorms and showers will batter most of Britain on Thursday as the sizzling heat of the past few days comes to a crashing end.

The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings for large swathes of the country including the South West, the Midlands, Scotland and Northern Ireland - with only the South East missing out.

The South West is also gearing up for further flooding as between 30mm and 50mm of rain could fall in less than three hours.

Despite much of the country bracing for a miserable day, East Anglia and the North East can expect a dry day with temperatures still tipping 77F (25C).

Last night the stifling heatwave came to an abrupt end as storm and flooding swept in across some parts of the UK.

Thunderstorms and heavy rain lashed parts of the South West of England as low pressure heading north from the Atlantic swept away the September sun.

Meanwhile Wales had its warmest September night on record, while temperatures in Scotland on Wednesday reached the highest since 1906.

The Met Office confirmed Aberporth, Ceredigion, recorded a 24-hour minimum temperature of 20.5C - breaking the previous record of 18.9C in Rhyl, Denbighshire, in 1949.

The heat might not be over for this month however, with another burst of hot weather expected for the weekend in some parts.

Netweather reported heat maps showing there could be three days of sun smothering the south of England between Friday and Sunday.

The Met Office issued yellow weather warnings for large swathes of the country including the South West, the Midlands, Scotland and Northern Ireland - with only the South East missing out

Thunderstorms and heavy rain lashed parts of the south-west of England overnight

The Met Office's yellow weather warning for today says there is a threat of thunderstorms as well as flooding in some parts.

It advised there is a 'small chance' homes and businesses could flood quickly, with damage to some buildings from floodwater, lightning strikes, hail or winds.

This may cause delays and cancellations to some train and bus services, while there may also be difficult driving conditions and road closures.

There is also a small chance that some rural communities could become temporarily cut off by flooded roads, The Met Office said.

Meteorologist Alex Deakin said: 'The weather patterns are changing. We've already seen some very heavy showers across the South West, there is a Met Office yellow warning in place for those.

'Thursday's warning covers much more of the country as the downpours become more widespread. It is generally a much much cloudier day.

'There will be showers breaking out across parts of North East England initially, extending into Scotland and then almost anywhere through the day from mid to late morning onwards.'

Last night rain and thunder lashed Devon and Cornwall and led to power cuts in some areas as well as flash flooding.

In south Devon, a kayaker was spotted paddling down a flooded street in Salcombe after the coastal town was battered by a torrent of water.

Footage from Salcombe showed the main shopping street swamped with water, while a kayaker was also pictured paddling past the shops.

Another video, also filmed in the town, showed people wading through the floodwater next to stationary vehicles. It is understood the rain fell for just five minutes before flooding was reported.

Lightning swept through Plymouth in Devon on Wednesday night as the scorching start to September came to an abrupt end

In south Devon, a crafty kayaker was last night pictured paddling down a flooded street in Salcombe after the coastal town was battered by flash floods and power cuts

Forecasters are predicting a risk of properties flooding across Northern Ireland and the South West, Midlands and North of England, as well as potential hail and thunderstorms battering much of the nation later this week.

It is understood the fallout from Hurricane Ida - which tore across southern states in the US last week - had forced a change in the UK's weather towards the warmer side.

Ida sent hot, humid air into the North Atlantic, which meteorologists said can have the effect of pepping up weather systems already in place.

Met Office Meteorologist Dan Harris said: 'The hot and clear weather currently being experienced across large parts of the UK is forecast to break down through the middle of the week as showers and thunderstorms arrive.

'These will initially affect the southwest of the UK on Wednesday, before moving steadily north and developing across most areas through Thursday and Friday.

'Thunderstorm warnings have been issued across a number of areas to highlight the potential for isolated impacts, including surface water flooding of homes and businesses, disruption to transport, and very isolated damage to infrastructure from lightning or hail.

'The semi-random nature of showers and thunderstorms means that many places will not see any thunderstorms at all, so it's not possible at this range to be more precise about the locations at risk, or indeed be more confident about the potential for impacts.'

But, the Met Office's longer range weather forecast shows that a tropical storm due to cross the Atlantic later this month could affect UK-wide temperatures.

Britain's 86F heatwave has given way to thunderstorms, heavy downpours and even hail in some parts of the nation as a severe weather warning was issued by The Met Office. Pictured: Cars navigate flooded roads in Plymouth on Wednesday

Meanwhile Wales experienced its warmest September night on record, while temperatures in Scotland on Wednesday reached the highest since 1906.

The Met Office confirmed Aberporth, Ceredigion, recorded a 24-hour minimum temperature of 20.5C - breaking the previous record of 18.9C in Rhyl, Denbighshire, in 1949.

This also means people in the area experienced a tropical night, as temperatures remained above 20C.

Charterhall in the Scottish Borders had reached 28.6C by mid-afternoon on Wednesday, making it the warmest September day in the country since 1906, when Gordon Castle in Moray reached 32.2C.

And the heat could be set for a resurgence towards the end of the week, with some forecasters predicting sun from Friday through Sunday.

Netweather reported heat maps showing there could be three days of sun smothering the south of England between Friday and Sunday.

People flocked to their favourite British beaches to lap up the final rays of 86F September sun. Above: Beachgoers at Cullercoats Bay, north Tyneside
Italy is set to allow the small-scale cultivation of cannabis plants at home after a reform was approved by the Lower House's justice committee on Wednesday.

The reform decriminalises the growth of up to four cannabis plants at home.

However, it also increases the penalties for crimes linked to the trafficking and dealing of cannabis, with the maximum sentence increasing from six to ten years.

Italy has become one of the first European countries to decriminalize recreational cannabis, permitting the growth of up to four cannabis plants at home (stock image)

The reform, which was put forward by Italian MP Riccardo Magi, makes Italy one of the first countries in Europe to decriminalize the domestic cultivation of cannabis for personal use, with Spain and Czech Republic also permitting the growth of up to five plants at home.

This reform comes nearly two years after a landmark decision from Italys Supreme Court in 2019, that ruled small-scale domestic cultivation of cannabis was legal.

The ruling was made on December 19, 2019 but went unnoticed until a week later when it was reported by domestic news agencies and immediately fueled a simmering political debate over cannabis use in Italy.

It triggered calls for further legalization from weed advocates and anger from the countrys conservatives.

In the UK, home cultivation remains illegal as well as possessing, selling, or distributing the drug, with offenders facing a fine of up to 2,500 and five years in prison (stock image)

In the UK, home cultivation remains illegal as well as possessing, selling, or distributing the drug, with offenders facing a fine of up to 2,500 and five years in prison.

Recent figures from the Home Office show police are making a record 358 cannabis seizures a day, a 21 per cent increase on 2019.

Cannabis was the most commonly found drug in police searches, with quantities being found in 71 per cent of all drug seizures in England and Wales in the 12 months to the end of March 2020.

However, in 2018, medicinal cannabis was legalized in the UK and some MPs have backed a similar move to Italy, towards decriminalisation.

Meanwhile, in the US, cannabis has been legalized across a third of all US states, with Virginia, New Mexico, and Connecticut being the latest ones to legalize recreational cannabis.
This is the terrifying moment a gunman opens fire at three men in a drive-by shooting in Liverpool.

A manhunt is underway to trace the gunman who opened fire on a car in the Kirkdale area of the city, leaving two men pouring with blood.

It is understood the incident is likely gang-related with a force spokesman telling MailOnline it is a suspected targeted attack but that the victims are not co-operating with investigators.

Detectives became aware of the shooting after the victims ran to hospital with gunshot wounds and traced a trail of blood back to what was thought to be the scene.

The shocking footage has since emerged which appears to capture the moment the two victims are shot by the suspect.

The gunman can be seen riding along the road on a bike, which he jumps off before opening fire in the direction of a parked car.

This is the shocking moment a gunman opens fire in the middle of the street as three men flee for their lives. Police are appealing for information after two of them suffered gunshot wounds

Those inside the vehicle attempt to flee on foot, with one man hiding behind the car while being shot at, before the driver pulls away from the scene.

The gunman can be seen chasing them down the street and out of view, firing at least six shots before he leaves the frame.

Merseyside Police became aware of the shooting after two men, one in his 20s and one in his 30s, attended the Royal Liverpool University Hospital with gunshot wounds to their hands and legs at around 12.50am on Wednesday.

Their injuries were not believed to be life threatening but they remain in hospital this morning in a stable condition, police have said.

Inquiries led detectives to believe they were attacked on Stanley Road, where a trail of blood was found near the junction with Pansy Street.

The area was cordoned off and examined by forensics officers on Wednesday and a police cordon was also set up outside part of the Royal.

During the incident, one man can be seen using the car to shield himself from the gunman

Three men then flee the scene on foot with the gunman chasing them before the car drives off

The footage appearing to have recorded the incident has since emerged online and has been widely shared on social media.

Merseyside Police have appealed for information following the shooting.

Detective Inspector John Fitzgerald, from the force's Firearms Investigation Team, said: 'We're working to piece together exactly what happened and so are keen to speak to anyone who was in the vicinity of Stanley Road and Pansy Street around midnight and saw or heard anything, either the shooting itself or any people making away from the area, and vehicle details.

'Recent days have seen a number of firearms removed from the streets,and recent months a downturn in these types of incidents.

'To have such success it is absolutely vital that we get all information from those communities who feel the impact of gun crime, so we can bring those responsible to justice. Speak to us directly or anonymously and we will take swift action.'

Anyone with information is urged to contact Merseyside Police via Twitter (@MerPolCC) or Facebook (Merseyside Police Contact Centre).

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
A 19-year-old woman has discovered she was accidentally swapped with another newborn at a Spanish hospital after she took a DNA test to settle a family despute.

The woman, who has asked to remain anonymous, is seeking millions of euros in damages over the 2002 mistake.

Regional health authorities have called the blunder a 'one-off human error' after the babies born five hours apart at the San Millan de Logrono in La Rioja were mixed up.

The error was discovered four years ago after one of the girls who was switched underwent a DNA test as part of dispute over child support payments.

The victim is demanding three million euros (2.5 million) in compensation from regional health authorities claiming she has suffered significant lifelong damages because she was raised in a trouble family environment.

A 19-year-old woman has discovered she was accidentally swapped with another newborn after being put in an incubator at a Spanish hospital in 2002 as she took a DNA test to settle a family despite (stock image)

Her lawyer Jose Saez-Morga said the victim, who was raised by a woman she believed to be her maternal grandmother, had suffered 'huge damages, which will last her whole life and which will never be repaired'.

Health authorities in the Rioja region have so far only offered the woman 215,000 euros (184,000) in compensation, he added.

The regional health chief, Sara Alba, said computer systems back then did not have as many details as they do today, and stressed that a similar mix-up could not happen again.

She added it would be impossible to work out which nurse made the accidental switch.

The two women were mixed up at birth after they placed in incubators because they were both underweight.

From there, they were transferred to cribs where the nurse mixed them up while returning them to their mothers.

Officials are 'not aware' of any other cases at the hospital, which has since closed, she told a news conference on Tuesday.

'We have not been able to determine who is to blame for this mistake,' Alba said.

'It was a one-off human error which could not happen today. We can guarantee that this will not happen again.'

Saez-Morga said the other young woman switched at birth and her family have also undergone DNA testing.

She has also asked to remain anonymous and has so far not filed a lawsuit, he added.

The two women were mixed up at birth after they placed in incubators at San Millan hospital in La Rioja, which is no longer in operation, because they were both underweight

The second victim was discovered after Saez-Morga contacted regional health inspectors after the 19-year-old approached him for help.

He said authorities were able to narrow down the list of potential swaps to 17 baby girls born around the same time at the hospital, which is no longer in operation.

Further analysis reduced the list to only one woman who was then asked to submit a DNA test.

The woman's father was asked to submit DNA to test whether it matched with Saez-Morga's client. The mother died in 2018, according to regional daily La Rioja.

One of the victims was sent to live with the couple while the second, who has filed the lawsuit, was raised by a woman she mistakenly thought was her grandmother.
A record number of Australians are trying to flee the nation thanks to endless Covid lockdowns and border closures, but are being blocked by a ban on international travel.

More than 330,000 people have applied to leave the country since the pandemic began in March 2020, with only those granted exemptions allowed to escape.

The number of people seeking travel exemptions to exit Australia's closed borders grew most during the most recent New South Wales lockdown with 37,797 applying for exemptions in August this year - and more than 12,000 rejected.

The total number of exemptions sought to leave in August was almost double the figure in December, when 19,502 applied.

In July 15,607 applications received for exemptions were refused by the Australian Border Force.

Australia's borders have been closed to international travel since March 20 last year, apart from a briefly period when a trans-Tasman bubble was in place for several weeks in April and May this year.

Australia's borders have been closed to international travel since March 20 last year, but the number of people seeking an official exemption to leave Australia is growing - including those wanting to leave for more than three months (pictured, xxxxx)

Of the 332,810 who have applied to the Australian Border Force for an exemption to leave Australia since March 2020, 122,131 were refused, which is more than a third (pictured xxxxxx)

Australians have experienced continual closure of state borders, especially throughout 2021 - one of the factors leading to defiant protests. A woman present at a protest at the Queensland-NSW border is pictured with police

Of the 332,810 who have applied to the Australian Border Force for an exemption to leave Australia since that day, 122,131 were refused, which is more than a third.

Of those, 63,437 seeking to leave on compassionate grounds were refused, according to the Australian Border Force's latest Monthly Travel Exemptions Processing Report.

While most nations closed their borders during the pandemic, most have eased hard borders.

Australia's state border closures have been a source of frustration too, with people blocked from returning home after interstate travel and fined where they illegally attempt it.

Hardline Western Australian premier Mark McGowan has even claimed his state will likely remain closed off from the rest of the country for up to another seven months.

apart from a briefly period when a trans-Tasman bubble was in place for several weeks in April and May this year (?????)

On Father's Day hundreds gathered at the Queensland-New South Wales border (pictured) to celebrate with their dads across bollards keeping family members apart

On Father's Day, hundreds gathered at the Queensland-New South Wales border to celebrate with their dads across bollards which are cruelly keeping family members apart.

Some groups have interpreted the Australian Border Force's exemption numbers as proof Australians have become impatient with Covid lockdowns and want to relocate to nations that have dispensed with the strategy.

LibertyWorks, a group that ran an unsuccessful court challenge to our tough border restrictions, claims Australians 'are done' with the travel restrictions.

'There are literally tens of thousands of people out there on social media and elsewhere saying we're done, we don't need this anymore,' said Andrew Cooper, LibertyWorks president told The Daily Telegraph.

The most popular reasons to seek exemptions in 2020 were compassionate/compelling grounds, travelling for more than three months and urgent personal business.

But by August 2021, applications for exemptions for extended travel swamped all other reasons.

Long queues for Covid testing and vaccinations are just two of the many frustrations Australians have enduring throughout the past two years (pictured xxxxx)

The federal government last week extended the outbound travel ban to at least December 17 (pictured xxxxx)

In August 14,900 wanted to leave for more than three months, but about a third were refused.

Of the 7,743 who applied to leave on compassionate grounds, the majority were refused: 4,749.

Meanwhile, during the pandemic only 15,251 of 118,528 applications to enter or return to Australia on compassionate grounds were approved - about 12 per cent.

Applications for an exemption to enter Australia gradually increased each month in 2021.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said 'vaccine passports' were key to the next stage of the national plan when Australia's lockdown borders - both internal and external - will finally be re-opened.

Australians returning from overseas, with more than 30,000 still stranded by flight caps, can also use the vaccine passport to enter home isolation upon return instead of hotel quarantine (pictured xxxxxx)

The document will be accepted internationally so when Australians are finally allowed to go overseas again, they can travel freely.

Australians returning from overseas, with more than 30,000 still stranded by flight caps, can also use the vaccine passport to enter home isolation upon return instead of hotel quarantine.

The nation has effectively been cut off from the rest of the world since the pandemic began 18 months ago, with special permission needed to enter or exit Australia.

The federal government last week extended the outbound travel ban to at least December 17.

It will not resume until the national level of double-dose vaccination hits 80 per cent - a level that has been reached by very few nations.
Former Fox News host and political commentator Bill O'Reilly has suggested his upcoming book on the war on terror will likely see him 'wind up in prison'.

During an appearance on Newsmax late Wednesday night with hosts Sean Spicer and Lyndsay Keith, O'Reilly pushed his new book entitled Killing the Killers: The Secret War which he claimed contains a wealth of classified information which he could be prosecuted for printing.

'I know as much about American security as anybody on the planet,' the former Fox host said.

'That book is filled with classified information that nobody's seen. I was lucky enough to be able to get it, I'll probably wind up in prison for printing it.'

O'Reilly said the book will be published early 2022.

Bill O'Reilly is a conservative political commentator and former host of 'The O'Reilly Factor' program on the Fox News Channel

O'Reilly's new book set to be published early next year will discuss the war on terror following the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center

O'Reilly pushed his new book entitled Killing the Killers: The Secret War which he claimed contains a wealth of classified information which he could be prosecuted for printing

O'Reilly and the hosts went on to discuss the war on terror, while O'Reilly claimed technological advancements made by the US in recent years would make it difficult to launch a large scale terror attack on US soil

O'Reilly and the hosts went on to discuss the war on terror, while O'Reilly claimed technological advancements made by the US in recent years would make it difficult to launch a large scale terror attack on US soil.

O'Reilly also cited the Patriot Act, a controversial act signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2001 which granted government and federal agencies increased surveillance powers to detect and prevent terror attacks, but seen by many as a way for the government to infringe on public privacy.

His book, co-written with American author Martin Dugard to be published in 2022, is set forth as a narration of 'America's intense global war against extremists who planned and executed not only the 9/11 attacks, but hundreds of others in America and around the world, and who eventually destroyed entire nations in their relentless quest for power'.

According to the GoodReads book preview, O'Reilly's book 'moves from Afghanistan to Iraq, Iran to Yemen, Syria, and Libya, and elsewhere, as the United States fought Al Qaeda, ISIS, and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, as well as individually targeting the most notorious leaders of these groups'.

.@BillOReilly: "I just finished writing a book...filled with classified information that nobody has seen - I'll probably wind up in prison for printing it." @SeanSpicer. @LyndsayMKeith. pic.twitter.com/5OQOoOn5Sd  Newsmax (@newsmax) September 9, 2021

His work has received widespread praise and O'Reilly has received awards for his investigative reporting, but has also been accused of embellishing his involvement in conflict reporting and providing inconsistent accounts of events

O'Reilly has a long and storied career in broadcasting.

His first appearance on television came in 1973 when he began reporting for a local news outlet in Scranton Pennsylvania but he quickly rose through the ranks, receiving multiple Emmy awards for his coverage and working for the likes of ABC, CBS and several other regional news stations.

He was hired by FOX in 1996 to anchor Fox News program The O'Reilly Factor, and did so for 20 years before he was fired in 2017 after the New York Times revealed he had paid several women a total of close to $50million to settle a string of sexual misconduct cases.

His work has received widespread praise and O'Reilly has received awards for his investigative reporting, but has also been accused of embellishing his involvement in conflict reporting and providing inconsistent accounts of events.

Most notably, in 2015 O'Reilly was accused of inconsistent and dishonest reporting during the Falklands War in 1982. O'Reilly's accounts of his time spent in Argentina and the Falklands did not tally with a factual record of the events.

The fallout from this discovery led to another incident in which Fox News was forced to state that O'Reilly was not an eyewitness to events he described in a previous book related to the deaths of nuns in Northern Ireland.
A convicted sex offender who repeatedly choked his girlfriends toddler to unconsciousness with a scarf will spend up to 52 years in prison after being sentenced for the disturbing child abuse case.

David J. Coleman, 38, was given the maximum sentence to two counts of child abuse resulting in serious bodily in a Nebraska court Tuesday by Douglas County District Judge Duane Dougherty.

There was extreme violence here, Dougherty said when handing the sentence, according to The Omaha World-Herald.

When someone harms a child that age, or no matter the age, in that nature its as bad as it gets.

Coleman used his cell phone to film his little victim struggling to breathe as he choked her - for at least a minute each time - on numerous occasions.

David J. Coleman, 38, filmed himself repeatedly hanging a two-year-old girl with a pink scarf

Douglas County Attorney Don Kleine said the crimes were incomprehensible.

Its beyond what anybody would think someone is capable of doing, Kleine said. As disturbing a child abuse case as weve ever seen.

Coleman was arrested last December after the tots mother discovered a video while scrolling through her boyfriends phone.

The footage showed Coleman, who has nine prior convictions, hanging her two-year-old daughter with a pink scarf, by her neck, from a shelving unit, according to a previously-filed court affidavit.

He took the girl to an Omaha storage unit to commit the crime.

The victim hanged by the neck, losing the ability to breathe and losing consciousness. The suspect [then] could be seen grabbing her roughly by the chest and lifting her with the ligature still tied to her neck to release pressure just enough to allow her to breathe, gasp, cry and gurgle, before dropping her in a hanging position, again, only to restart the previous cycle.

Months before attacking the toddler, he served time for breaking the bones of another child

Police said a second video filmed later the same day showed Coleman using the same pink scarf to nearly strangle the child while she sat in her car seat.

The scarf was bound around her neck so tight that she couldnt speak or even cry, the court document said.

The victim can be seen on video turning red and blue in the face, an Omaha detective wrote in a police report. [She] appeared to try crying but was unable to because the ligature was pulled so tightly by the suspect to stop her from breathing, speaking or crying.

Coleman, of Omaha, was convicted in 2004 of first-degree sexual assault of a minor

Coleman was previously convicted for child abuse for breaking a childs bones and burning them with a heating pad, the Omaha World-Herald reported.

He was released from prison about four months before turning on the two-year-old girl.

Coleman was also convicted in 2004 of first-degree sexual assault of a minor. He is listed on Nebraska's sex offender registry.

The childs mother said in a victim impact statement that the assault changed this childs life in ways we may never know.

Coleman apologized during his sentencing hearing, claiming to be mortified by his behaviour.

Its a struggle every day for me, he said. Im very sorry.

Coleman, a nine-time felon, was sentenced to 52 years, but will be eligible for parole after serving 42 years.
Doctors in Kentucky say it is nearly impossible to separate a pair of conjoined twins who share several organs including their liver.

Twin girls Lakelyn and Laylie were born in Louisville on Sept. 1 at 32 weeks, weighing only 2lbs, 13oz each.

Their parents, Charla and Logan Cook, were told last month that the girls likely wouldn't survive. On Monday, they were released from the NICU and sent home, where they will continue receiving medical care.

'They are doing very well, all things considered!' Charla told local TV station WLKY.

Lakelyn and Laylie share a liver, bowel, heart wall and a several other organs, which will make it nearly impossible to separate them.

However, after appointments at several hospital across the nation, the family found a team of doctors in Florida who are willing to try the procedure. But, due to an unexpected early delivery, it remains unknown if the surgery will actually happen.

Conjoined twin girls Lakelyn and Laylie (pictured) were born in Louisville on Sept. 1 at 32 weeks, weighing only 2lbs, 13oz each. Doctors say is nearly impossible to separate them because they share several organs including their liver

The twins' parents, Charla (pictured) and Logan Cook, of Kentucky, were told last month that the girls likely wouldn't survive. On Monday, they were released from the NICU and sent home, where they will continue receiving medical care

Charla discovered she was pregnant in March with what she thought would be her fourth child, according to the family's Facebook page.

On June 11 the Cooks went for their routine 20-week anatomy scan and learned they were actually expecting twins. After further testing, it was revealed that the babies were conjoined.

'I went to several regular appointments before they found out about the twins and everything was always normal. Their heartbeat was great and everything with me had been good,' Charla shared.

'We were very excited to welcome our fourth and final baby. But then to hear this news, it was devastating.'

The family was given four days to decide whether or not to go through with their pregnancy.

'For me, four days was not enough time to decide life or death for my girls. So we began looking for hospitals that had dealt with conjoined twins and had success,' she penned.

Over the next month, the Cooks made appointments at several hospitals and spoke with multiple medical teams, only to receive heartbreaking news:

'I have to prepare myself for ultimately what is to come and thats my girls will not survive longer than a few weeks at best. They have estimated hours, days or weeks but after that the girls will die,' Charla said at the time.

'Once they are born its up to them how long they will live. I am completely heartbroken and there really are no words for what Im going through. I will say that I now appreciate my three other children so much more than I ever thought I could. I didnt realize how lucky I was having three healthy babies until now. I am so blessed despite what Im currently facing.'

Charla, Logan and their three children decided that the best plan moving forward was to try and spend as much time with the twins as possible after their birth.

Lakelyn and Laylie share a liver, bowel, heart wall and a several other organs. A specialist in Florida - the only doctor who agreed to try a separation procedure - devised a plan that aimed to save 'twin A' because she has a stronger heart and better survival chance

The family planned to have the girls at a hospital in Florida, but due to unexpected circumstances were forced to deliver about a month early in Kentucky

'If they can be stable enough to not need life support then they will come home with us until the ultimately pass away. We will have comfort care at home and I pray I get days or weeks with them,' Charla wrote in July.

'Having this time will make it harder when they do pass away but I want to make as many memories as I can and allow their siblings and other family members to be able to meet them and spend time together as well.'

Meantime, medical specialists across the nation learned about the Cooks' case and started reaching out.

The family traveled to Florida in early August to meet with a doctor who devised a plan that could save one of the twins.

'Her ultimate idea/plan [was] to try to save baby A because her heart is better and she has a better chance of survival. So, we would have to deliver the twins in Florida and both of them survive and thrive long enough to plan and schedule the separation surgery,' Charla shared.

'At this point of course I want to do whatever to save one of these girls and give her a chance at life. Its just very unfortunate to have to lose twin B. However if we stay here and deliver I will lose them both no matter what.'

In wake of the treatment plan, the family started to prepare for their relocation and anticipated delivering the twins in October on their prospective due date.

Charla described the news of her changed delivery date as 'the beginning of the end.' She said: 'we wont be able to travel to Florida and find housing in time to make that a possibility now. My biggest prayer now is a miracle the girls will be stable enough to come home for however long god gives us time with them'

Logan (pictured) and Charla took the girls home from the NICU on Tuesday. They are currently receiving care from home healthcare workers and spending quality time with loved ones

Unfortunately, Charla learned near the end of August that she would have to deliver the babies on Sept. 1 in Kentucky.

'To us it [was the] beginning of the end as we wont be able to travel to Florida and find housing in time to make that a possibility now. My biggest prayer now is a miracle the girls will be stable enough to come home for however long god gives us time with them,' said Charla on Aug. 24.

Lakelyn and Laylie were born eight days later after a successful surgery. The babies were able to breathe on their own and are in stable condition.

After a few days, they were taken off of IVs and given feeding tubes so they can drink breast milk.

On Tuesday, they were discharged from the NICU and sent home, where they are receiving care from home healthcare workers and spending quality time with loved ones.

'The girls have done so well,' the family said of their recovery.

However, due to their fragile state and complicated medical conditions, the Cooks are not able to make the journey to Florida.

'We cant take the girls to Florida in their condition so only time will tell us how things will go. We are certainly praying for miracles,' Charla told WLKY.

'These little babies are so strong and such fighters.'

A GoFundMe account has been established to help the family during this difficult time and aid in the cost of medical care.

You can also follow their journey on the Hickey Conjoined Twins Facebook page.

Charla says: 'We cant take the girls to Florida in their condition so only time will tell us how things will go. These little babies are so strong and such fighters'
CCTV footage has captured the shocking moment a teenage shop worker was attacked by a man he believed was trying to steal beer.

The clip, filmed on September 5 at around 7.30pm, shows the shirtless man storming back inside the Costcutter store in Swinton, Salford, several times to punch the teenager.

The 14-year-old boy's mother said he was attacked after he told the two men to put back the beer they were holding if they were not paying for it.

A teenager shop worker, 14, was attacked after he challenged a topless man who he believed was trying to steal beer from the Costcutter store in Swinton, Salford, on Sunday evening

CCTV footage shows the teenager confronting two men from the door of the shop before one of the suspected shoplifters storms back inside and starts hitting him

The teenager, who turns 15 next week, can be seen in the footage cowering as the shirtless man takes several swipes at him.

The other man then appears in the doorway of the shop, wearing a hoodie and jeans, and tries to stop the attack.

They leave the store together but the shirtless man returns to pummel the shop worker again before finally leaving for good.

The boy's mother, who wished to remain anonymous along with her son, told the Manchester Evening News: 'My son has told them that they need to put it back or pay for it then obviously this happened.

The tattooed man swings at the teenager before the man he was in the shop with tells him to leave but he returns once again to take more swings at the youngster

'I don't know what exactly was said as my son hasn't spoken about it too much.

'There was another guy in the shop at the time behind the counter he just didn't really help.'

She said her son has a black eye and remains in shock from the incident but overall is 'okay'.

The youngster works at the shop to earn a little extra pocket money but now his mother said he is wary of leaving the house and hasn't been back to work since the incident.

MailOnline contacted Greater Manchester Police and Costcutter for comment.
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Heathrow today issued a stark warning to passengers telling them 'you should be prepared for unacceptable queues' as border chaos continued at the airport with no sign of any government plan to resolve the issue.

MPs and travel industry leaders have called on Priti Patel, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps and Border Force chief Paul Lincoln to take urgent action to bring a halt to the chaotic scenes, but the Home Office has continued to insist that passengers must be prepared to wait.

Snaking lines of frustrated travellers were seen for a tenth day yesterday, with people complaining of queueing for more than five hours, social distancing apparently impossible at Terminal 3 and just six out of 40 passport booths allegedly unmanned.

Heathrow insists it is unable to do anything to fix the problem because only Border Force staff can man immigration gates.

It tweeted today in response to a customer enquiry: 'Passengers are being advised to expect unacceptable queueing times at the Border. Resourcing in immigration halls is the responsibility of Border Force and it is disappointing that they have failed to ensure appropriate numbers of officials are on duty.'

Images shared on Twitter yesterday showed frustrated travellers sitting on the floor all bunched together and risking further spreading Covid as they apparently queue to pass immigration on yet another day of huge waits at Britain's busiest airport.

'It took over FIVE HOURS to get through border control today,' one person tweeted. 'Absolutely ridiculous to have only ~6 out of 40 booths manned by immigration officers, and keep people standing in a queue for this long. Especially when social distancing is impossible.'

The scenes are likely to pile further pressure on Ms Patel, whose management of the 'carnage' at immigration has come under scrutiny among furious Conservatives including former Tory Party leader Sir Iain Duncan-Smith.

Travel industry figures have warned the scenes are blighting the UK's global reputation while running the risk of a spike in Covid cases - further jeopardising the already crisis-hit tourism sector and stifling business with post-Brexit Britain.

It comes amid fresh calls for the government to allow double-vaccinated people to travel without having to undergo tests. Former transport secretary Lord McLoughlin told the Telegraph: 'I'd like to know why they don't think it is a runner when there is going to be a vaccine passport system in the UK later on this year.'

Snaking lines of frustrated travellers were seen for a tenth day yesterday, with people complaining of queueing for more than five hours, social distancing apparently impossible at Terminal 3 and just six out of 40 passport booths allegedly unmanned

Heathrow insists it is unable to do anything to fix the problem because only Border Force staff can man immigration gates

Yesterday, passengers complained of queueing for more than five hours, social distancing apparently impossible at Terminal 3 and just six out of 40 passport booths allegedly unmanned

Pictures shared with MailOnline showed long snaking lines of hundreds of people packed together tightly waiting at border control, as elderly and more vulnerable passengers wilted

The scenes are likely to pile further pressure on Home Secretary Priti Patel, whose management of the 'carnage' at immigration has come under scrutiny among furious Conservatives including ex-Tory Party leader Sir Iain Duncan-Smith

Traffic light system could be scrapped: Government 'is set to end green and amber lists and focus instead on whether holidaymakers are double-jabbed' The government could scrap the traffic light system and replace it with a simplified approach that focuses on whether travellers are double jabbed in a bid to encourage more people to get vaccinated. Ranking countries green or amber could end, although the red category is expected to stay for high-risk destinations for which 11 days of hotel quarantine is required. Rules for fully vaccinated holidaymakers, who do not have to self-isolate after returning from green or amber countries, would likely remain the same. Currently, they have to take two tests - one within 72 hours of travelling back to the UK and a second within two days of arriving home. The latter must be a PCR. Non-vaccinated people currently enjoy the same rules as the double-jabbed when returning from green countries, but have to self-isolate at home for up to 10 days after coming back from amber destinations. The quarantine or testing requirements non-vaccinated people will have to undergo under the new system are still unclear, but they are likely to be stricter than what they currently faced. It is understood the proposals are still at the planning stage and no decision has yet been made. However, ministers have come under increasing pressure to simplify the system from travel industry figures including British airways CEO Sean Doyle. Meanwhile, Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate wants testing requirements to be scrapped altogether for double-jabbed travellers to boost the beleaguered sector. Advertisement

Travel industry figures have added their voices to calls to simplify testing and quarantine rules - as they were given a boost by reports the traffic light system could be scrapped.

British Airways Chief executive Sean Doyle said Government policy is 'the biggest single enabler' of airlines recovering from the virus crisis.

He went on: 'We had the traffic light system over the summer. There was some progress made. But I think it's not fit for purpose. It needs to be simplified. It needs to be adapted in the same way that we see in Europe and in the US.'

Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate called for testing to be removed altogether for travellers who have been double jabbed. 'Other countries have done this and their aviation sectors are recovering much faster with bookings in Europe recovering twice as fast as in the UK,' he said.

The requirements vary depending on whether someone is arriving from a green, amber or red location, and whether or not they are fully vaccinated.

Currently, arrivals in England from low-risk 'green' countries and medium-risk 'amber' locations must take two Covid tests, even if they are fully vaccinated. Meanwhile, all travellers coming from red-list destinations must quarantine in a hotel for 10 days and take three tests.

The lists are updated every three weeks, with the next changes due next week. A wider overhaul of the rules is scheduled to take place by October 1.

Paul Lincoln, Border Force's director general, has not commented publicly on the issue in recent weeks.

Mr Lincoln, a career civil servant who has also served in the Ministry of Defence and Cabinet Office, had his salary bumped up from 130,000-135,000 to between 135,000 and 140,000 in the last financial year, accounts show.

He has overseen a summer of Heathrow border chaos dating back to at least May, when some passengers reported three-hour waits at passport gates.

In July, it was announced he will soon leave his current role, a month after being made an OBE for services to border security.

'He needs to explain what's going on': Border Force chief on 140,000-a-year was made an OBE amid Heathrow chaos Paul Lincoln: Director General, Border Force Paul Lincoln Mr Lincoln has had a long career in the civil service, which included serving in the Ministry of Defence and Cabinet Office. Immediately prior to this appointment, he was Director General of the Crime, Policing and Fire Group (CPFG), which included overseeing reforms to the police and fire services, according to his official biography. Before that, he was Acting Director General of the Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism (OSCT) in the Home Office, covering terrorism and organised crime. Mr Lincoln has been the Home Office's Gender Equality Champion, and in 2020 spoke about how the civil service could use data to ensure diversity targets were being met. Home Office accounts for the financial year 2020-21 reveal he had his salary bumped up from 130,000-135,000 to between 135,000 and 140,000. In May, quizzed about long queues at Heathrow, he said new Covid health checks at the border meant it took five to ten minutes to process every passenger. In June, he was made an OBE for services to border security in the Queen's Birthday Honours list. In July, it was announced he will leave his role as director general and be replaced by Tony Eastaugh, a former national counter-terror gold commander. Advertisement

Sir Iain Duncan-Smith and James Gray, MP for North Wiltshire, called on senior officials including Mr Lincoln to explain what is causing the 'unacceptable' queues.

'They should explain what's happening and why there are delays,' Mr Duncan-Smith told MailOnline. 'They are running a public service and they should be open to the public.

'Number one they've got to explain what the problem is and why they weren't able to cope. Then we can work out what to do about it.'

Mr Gray said: 'The Home Affairs Select Committee needs to get these people in front of them so we can find out exactly what's going on. It's their responsibility.

'The current situation is complete carnage - there's no bit of it that's acceptable.

'I cannot believe that all these people are self-isolating, I cannot believe there are not enough staff, and I cannot believe Heathrow isn't kicking and screaming about this.'

The Home Office has blamed the queues on the need to check Covid documents - in addition to families with young children not being able to use e-gates because the facial recognition technology does not work with under-12s.

But travellers have insisted their Covid-related paperwork has barely been checked by Border Force guards because most of the work is done by airlines.

Travel journalist Simon Calder told MailOnline: 'All the evidence I am seeing is that the outsourcing of paperwork checks to airlines, ferry firms and train operators means minimal checks coming into the UK.

'Because the airline has to check the UK-bound 'fit to fly' and passenger locator form  which can't be completed until a post-arrival test is booked  the Border Force, in my experience, is simply wanting to verify identity.

'Personally I don't have a problem with this  last week in Berlin I was checked and re-checked by Ryanair staff before my flight to Stansted, and on arrival I was through in one minute flat.

'But as a result it's a stretch claiming that the long queues at Heathrow are down to extra checks.'

A Home Office source told MailOnline that while carriers did carry out checks Border Force guards 'also had a role' in scrutinising documents', including passenger locator forms.

British Airways chief executive Sean Doyle said Government policy is 'the biggest single enabler' of airlines recovering from the virus crisis

Meanwhile, a Home Office spokesman said: 'Throughout the pandemic we have been clear that queue times may be longer as we ensure all passengers are compliant with the health measures put in place to keep the UK public safe.

'This weekend was the busiest of the year for returning passengers, with particularly high numbers of families with children under the age of 12 who cannot use e-gates.

'We have endeavoured to improve waiting times this week, for example by flexibly deploying staff across Heathrow Airport and continue to work closely with all airports and airlines to make sure all passengers can have a safe and hassle-free journey.'
Queensland is preparing to 'cautiously' re-open the NSW border for those caught between the two states while the rest of the state will remain locked out.

Discussions on the reinstatement of a border bubble between the two states are officially underway, in welcome news for families separated by the hard measure.

Queensland will continue to deny NSW residents entry into the state, despite the lifting of lockdown restrictions in 'vast amounts' of regional areas.

The state government said current border restrictions would remain in place until further notice, in a statement released on Thursday afternoon.

Discussions on the reinstatement of a border bubble between Queensland and NSW are officially underway, in welcome news for families separated by the hard measure (pictured)

The soft-opening of the NSW-Queensland border comes after Deputy Premier John Barilaro announced thousands of regional NSW residents would be set free from stay-at-home orders (pictured, the Murrumbidgee River in Wagga Wagga, one of the areas due to leave lockdown)

However a discussion between Queensland Police Deputy Commissioner Steve Gollschewski and his southern counterpart NSW Cross Border Commissioner James McTavish about the 'arrangements in northern NSW and the border community' will be taking place.

It is understood that any agreement between the commissioners will be conveyed to the public on Friday, the Courier Mail reported.

The state last month brought in a two-week pause on arrivals from NSW, Victoria and the ACT, when the hotel quarantine system hit capacity.

The ban was lifted earlier than expected on Friday with 50 hotel rooms re-opened for quarantine, with another 680 added on Monday.

The soft-opening of the border bubble comes after Deputy Premier John Barilaro announced thousands of regional NSW residents would be set free from stay-at-home orders.

Those living in the state's mid north coast, north coast, north-west, northern rivers, Byron Bay, Albury, Riverina and Murrumbidgee regions are set to be released from lockdown at 12.01am on Saturday.

Queensland will continue to deny NSW residents entry into the state, despite the lifting of lockdown restrictions in 'vast amounts' of regional areas (pictured the QLD-NSW border)

Those living in the state's mid north coast, north coast, north-west, northern rivers, Byron Bay (pictured), Albury, Riverina and Murrumbidgee regions are set to be released from lockdown

However, 38 local government areas across regional NSW will remain in lockdown, including the state's central and far west, the Central Coast, Hunter and Shellharbour regions.

The LGAs coming out of lockdown are deemed low risk and have had zero Covid cases in the last fortnight.

Residents in those areas will be allowed five visitors in a house with the re-opening of hair salons with capacity limits and weddings to go ahead with 50 guests.

'This decision is based on NSW Health advice, and the LGAs which remain in lockdown will continue to be monitored and we will update those communities on a regular basis,' Mr Barilaro said.

'For the areas coming out of lockdown, you are not coming back to a pre-lockdown environment.

'There will be capacity limits for our hotels, cafes and restaurants, including the four square metre rule, mask wearing, social distancing.'

'There is rules around certain activities that won't recommence. Community sport won't be permitted yet.'

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said residents freedoms would only be fully-restored when a border bubble was reinstated (pictured, police stop cars in Coolangatta at Queensland border)

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (pictured) slammed the families separated by the hard border for celebrating Father's Day on Sunday

He warned regions will be plunged back into lockdown for a minimum of 14 days if a new Covid case emerges.

'It is important that we protect the communities. One case is one case too many in the regions,' he added.

Tweed residents on the far North Coast of NSW will be one of the lucky areas released from lockdown, however Gold Coast Tom Tate remains sceptical.

Mr Tate said residents couldn't experience total freedom until a border bubble between the two states was reinstated.

'Tweed residents may have freedom to move about their local government area but they can't attend medical appointments, work, school drop-offs or any tasks this side of the border,' he said.

The Mayor said residents in the Tweed-Coolangatta area were being denied the right to reconnect with everyone in their tight-knit community.

'It is now time to end this madness and re-establish the border bubble.'

It comes after Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk slammed the families separated by the hard border for celebrating Father's Day on Sunday.

Tourist mecca Byron Bay (pictured) is among the 'vast amounts' of regions coming out of lockdown at 12:01am on Saturday

It comes after Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk slammed the families separated by the hard border for celebrating Father's Day on Sunday (pictured, a woman being spoken to by Queensland policemen)

Hundreds of father's took the opportunity to hug their loved ones over the orange barricades at the Tweed Heads and Coolangatta junction.

Ms Palaszczuk said the reunions was 'putting people at risk' despite no known cases of coronavirus anywhere near the NSW border.

Queensland recorded one local case of Covid-19 on Thursday, the 10-year-old brother of a four-year-old girl from Beenleigh who tested positive last weekend.

The pair were close contacts of the driver from Logan who was infected in NSW and tested positive to the virus last week.

Queensland has the lowest vaccination coverage in the country, with 53.33 per cent of eligible people having had one dose and 34.75 per cent fully vaccinated.
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Vets at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs have been accused of a 'false narrative' by two experts backing slain alpaca Geronimo's owner.

An ugly row has broken out over whether the beloved animal had bovine tuberculosis after his owner Helen McDonald claimed the initial findings of the post-mortem showed no signs of the disease - but the Government insisted this was wrong.

But last night, Dr Iain McGill, one of the vets who reviewed the preliminary findings for her, claimed lesions mentioned by Defra were unlikely to be symptoms of bTB.

He said: 'What those post mortem results showed was that there were no lesions typical of bTB in alpacas in that carcass. If Geronimo had really been suffering from bTB for four to six years, he would have massive abscesses.

'[Defra] are now trying to kick this into the long grass. The abscesses they found are in the wrong place to be consistent with bTB. It is a fake claim and a false narrative.'

Miss Macdonald said the preliminary post-mortem findings were 'negative for visible lesions typical of bovine tuberculosis', but in stark contrast the Chief Veterinary Officer said that 'a number of TB-like lesions were found'.

She called on Environment Secretary George Eustice to resign as she gathered with supporters outside the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs building in London, chanting: 'Shame on Defra'.

Miss Macdonald received a copy of the preliminary findings of the examination from the Government's Legal Department after requesting the paperwork, and it was then reviewed by veterinary surgeons supporting her.

Helen Macdonald became emotional yesterday while attending a protest at the Defra headquarters in London

Helen Macdonald and Geronimo the alpaca at her farm near Wickwar, South Gloucestershire, before he was euthanised

Helen Macdonald (centre) with protesters at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs offices on Wednesday

A team surround Geronimo at Shepherds Close Farm in Gloucestershire before he was taken away on a trailer on August 31

Miss Macdonald is joined by members of the Justice for Geronimo and Stop Badger Cull campaigns in London yesterday

Members of the Justice for Geronimo and Stop Badger Cull campaigns hold a protest outside Defra HQ in London yesterday

An animal rights supporter listens to speeches as a demonstration takes place outside the Defra building yesterday

Surrounded by her supporters in Westminster yesterday afternoon amid a vocal demonstration, Miss Macdonald called on Environment Secretary George Eustice to resign.

In a statement, her lawyers said: 'As reviewed by Dr Iain McGill and Dr Bob Broadbent, the preliminary gross post-mortem findings are negative for visible lesions typical of Bovine Tuberculosis.

Did Geronimo have TB or not? Experts won't know until the end of this year Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said today that the initial post-mortem examination of Geronimo found a 'number of TB-like lesions'. These are now undergoing further investigation, with tests including the developing of bacteriological cultures (growths) from tissue samples. This normally takes several months, and experts expect to complete the full process by the end of this year. A lesion is an area of tissue that has been damaged through disease - and in some cases, the microscopic lesions of TB in the affected organs can take a very long time to progress to larger, visible lesions, if at all. Mycobacterium bovis can be grown in the laboratory from clinical samples, usually from tissue samples collected post-mortem. The culture process takes a long time because the bacterium grows slowly. This process can only be carried out in specialist laboratories, and it is not always successful even in lab conditions. It is only after growth in the laboratory that the species of Mycobacterium can be identified. Advertisement

'For clarity there are no white or cream caseous, enlarged abscesses typical for bTB in alpacas whether in the lungs, bronchial, mediastinal or retropharyngeal lymph nodes.

'Miss Macdonald has formally requested the full findings of the post-mortem report 'Form TB50', together with all relevant documents and the results of further tests on tissue samples, blood, serum or plasma taken or obtained from Geronimo, along with any further test results including Enferplex, Idexx, Actiphage and any other PCR or interferon gamma tests performed by Defra, along with the results of histopathogical examination.

'She has further requested that both fresh, frozen and formalin fixed tissue and fluid samples be preserved and provided to an independent expert to carry out further tests.'

The post-mortem examination was undertaken by veterinary pathologists from the Government's Animal and Plant Health Agency.

And Chief Veterinary Officer Dr Christine Middlemiss said yesterday: 'We have completed the initial post-mortem examination of Geronimo. A number of TB-like lesions were found and in line with standard practice these are now undergoing further investigation.

'These tests include the developing of bacteriological cultures from tissue samples which usually takes several months - we would expect to complete the full post-mortem and culture process by the end of the year.'

Speaking at the protest, Miss Macdonald said: 'We urge the Government to act with compassion and cooperation, which to date has been severely lacking, creating deep and unnecessary distress to Geronimo. We call on the secretary of state to tender his resignation immediately.'

Miss Macdonald also vowed to fight for animal rights in 'honour' of Geronimo. She said: 'Geronimo was a blessing in my life. He touched the world. He was loved and precious to very many people and he lives on.

'I miss him. But I will do him the honour of fighting for him and making sure his legacy lives on for all animals.'

Miss Macdonald accused the Government of 'hiding the truth' over the killing of the animal just over a week ago.

Geronimo is taken away from Miss Macdonald's farm in Gloucestershire on August 31 before being put down

Geronimo's owner Helen Macdonald speaks on her phone after her beloved alpaca was removed on August 31

Timeline: Geronimo's long struggle for survival 2017 Geronimo is brought to England from New Zealand in August 2017 by his owner, veterinary nurse Helen Macdonald.

He tests positive for bovine tuberculosis twice in August and November, and is put into isolation away from the rest of the herd at the farm in Wickwar. 2018 The Government applies for a court order in July to have Geronimo destroyed. The alpaca is given a stay of execution, with a deadline of the end of August for his slaughter.

Miss Macdonald seeks a judicial review claiming new evidence shows the animal is healthy - marking the start of a series of lengthy legal battles.

In November, Miss Macdonald wins the right to a review at the High Court. 2019 In March, a hearing gets underway and Miss Macdonald claims Government experts relied on 'flawed science'. The case dismissed in July. 2021 In May, a district court judge orders an execution warrant.

Miss Macdonald starts an appeal and an order is made preventing Geronimo's destruction pending the application.

She takes out an emergency injunction to delay a warrant to cull the animal before an an appeal hearing on July 29.

The case is again dismissed. A judge agrees to delay the start of a second execution warrant until August 5

Geronimo is taken away on August 31 and executed Advertisement

She said she had been denied knowledge of when, where and how Geronimo died - and had been refused an independent post-mortem examination.

The alpaca was euthanised after police officers and staff from Defra arrived at Miss Macdonald's farm last month.

Less than 90 minutes after leaving the property, Defra confirmed the animal - who had twice tested positive for bovine tuberculosis - had been euthanised by staff from the Animal and Plant Health Agency.

Miss Macdonald was campaigning for the destruction to be halted after insisting the bovine tuberculosis tests previously carried out returned false positives. She had wanted him to be tested for a third time or allowed to live to aid research into the disease.

The veterinary nurse argued the Enferplex test was fundamentally flawed and said Geronimo tested positive because he had repeatedly been primed with tuberculin - a purified protein derivative of bovine TB bacteria.

Speakers at the protest at Defra's headquarters included vet Dr Iain McGill, animal welfare campaigner and writer Dominic Dyer and broadcaster and journalist Kevin O'Sullivan.

More than 27,000 cattle were slaughtered last year to curb the spread of the infectious disease, Defra said.

Meanwhile, experts are vowing to take further action over the way Geronimo the alpaca was dragged from his pen and bundled into the back of a horse box to be driven away and killed by Government vets.

The British Alpaca Society wrote a letter of complaint to Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Mr Eustice and various Government officials over the way the animal was removed from his owner's farm.

Sue Loach, chairwoman of the British Alpaca Society, condemned the way Geronimo was removed from his pen, 'dragging him kicking and screaming', and then left tethered, standing up in the back of a trailer.

She said she has now received an unsigned reply from Apha, which stated: 'Removal operations were carefully planned, conducted and included consideration of Geronimo's welfare.

'Geronimo was transported under veterinary supervision. Veterinary surgeons were present at the loading and the unloading as well as travelling behind the trailer during its journey.

'We can assure you that Geronimo arrived at the destination in the same condition as when he left the farm, was unloaded and then euthanised in accordance with our welfare procedures.

'This was a difficult and high-pressure situation for all involved. We can assure you that our staff did all in their power to protect Geronimo's welfare and treat him with dignity.'
AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine may trigger a nerve disorder in 'very rare' cases, according to the EU's vaccine watchdog.

The European Medicines Agency said today 833 cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome had been reported worldwide out of 592million doses dished out.

It found the overall risk of suffering the syndrome after being vaccinated with AstraZeneca was less than one in 10,000.

Experts have stressed that the risk of severe illness or long-term complications from Covid infection is much higher, and that vaccination is still the best option.

Guillain-Barre sees the immune system go haywire and start to attack nerve cells, triggering symptoms including muscle pain, numbness and pins and needles.

Most people who suffer the condition make a full recovery, but one in five can be left with long-term problems such as difficulty walking and one in 20 die.

The EMA said they considered it 'at least a reasonable possibility' that Guillain-Barre is a side effect of the Oxford-made jab.

The regulator has already listed the condition to the single-shot dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine, which uses the same technology as the AZ jab.

Britain's medical regulator does not officially recognise Guillain-Barre as a side effect of AstraZeneca's vaccine, but says it is keeping a close eye on the suspected link.

There have been 393 UK cases after vaccination with the jab but the watchdog is not certain the condition is occurring more often than it normally would.

It is not clear how many of these led to long-term complications, but three Britons have died.

The European Medicines Agency said today 833 cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome had been reported worldwide out of 592million doses dished out. It found the overall risk of suffering the syndrome after being vaccinated with AstraZeneca was less than one in 10,000

The above graph shows the number of Guillaine-Barre cases detected after a Covid vaccine was administered in the UK. Britain's medical regulator the MHRA said it has not been able to 'confirm or rule out' a potential link between AstraZeneca's jab and the condition

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) added there have been 44 suspected cases following administration of the Pfizer jab, and one death.

There have also been three cases after inoculation with the Moderna jab.

What is Guillain-Barre syndrome? Guillain-Barre syndrome is a very rare condition that can be sparked by viral infections. It is thought to be triggered when the immune system misfires and starts attacking the body's own nerve cells. Symptoms of the condition include numbness, pins and needles, muscle weakness and problems with balance and co-ordination. The NHS says they tend to start in the hands and feet before spreading up the arms and legs. They should get worse over the first few days, they said, before starting to improve. Most people who suffer Guillain-Barre syndrome make a full recovery, but around one in five are left with longer term problems and one in 20 die. Treatments include painkillers and blood transfusions to help bring the condition under control. Source: NHS Advertisement

Official figures show Britain has dished out more than 48.7million AstraZeneca doses, 38.9million Pfizer shots and 2.2million Moderna jabs.

Professor Ian Douglas, a pharmacoepidemiologist at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said the benefits of the vaccine still vastly outweighed the risks.

'Taken together, I don't believe this news alters the risk benefit profile of the vaccine,' he said.

'But it does serve as a helpful prompt for anyone who experiences early signs of Guillain-Barre syndrome shortly after receiving a Covid vaccine to seek medical help.

'These include numbness, weakness and pins and needles in the hands and feet, often becoming worse over a few days.'

The MHRA says it has not been able to 'confirm or rule out' whether the jab could trigger the condition.

Its chief Dr June Raine said they would 'continue to review' cases of the conditon following vaccination.

A very rare blood clot on the brain was listed as a side effect of the AstraZeneca vaccine earlier this year.

The UK's vaccine advisers have recommended under-40s receive an alternative jab to this jab, because of concerns over the condition which appeared to be more common in younger people.

Pfizer's vaccine has been linked to very rare cases of inflammation of the heart, or myocarditis.

The condition appears to be most common in young boys.

It has sparked concern as officials weigh up whether to inoculate 12 to 15-year-olds against the virus. The Government's vaccine advisory committee has not recommended the jabs for the age group, but said they offered a marginal benefit to their health.

The EMA and the MHRA have stressed that the benefits of vaccination still outweigh the risks of potential side effects.

But the EMA 'considered at least a reasonable possibility' that the AstraZeneca jab could trigger the syndrome in 'very rare' cases.

'Guillain-Barre syndrome should therefore be added to the product information as a side effect of Vaxzevria [AZ],' it said in guidance published today.

'The frequency category allocated is "very rare" (i.e. occuring in less than one in 10,000 persons), which is the category of the lowest frequency foreseen in EU product information.'

Dr Raine, the MHRA chief executive, said: 'The MHRA will continue to review cases of Guillain-Barre Syndrome reported following vaccination with Covid vaccines to assess the possible increased risk of Guillain-Barre Syndrome associated with Covid vaccines, with independent advice from its Vaccine Benefit-Risk Working Group.

'Anyone who experiences weakness and paralysis in the extremities, possibly spreading to the chest and face, within four to six weeks following vaccination should seek urgent medical attention.

'We encourage anyone who believes they have experienced a side effect to a Covid vaccine to report it via Coronavirus Yellow Card scheme.

'The benefits of vaccination continue to outweigh the risks for the majority of people.'

The MHRA says online the condition has been known to be associated with infections with Covid as well as other infectious diseases.

They add that underlying or undiagnosed illness can also lead to suspected cases of the condition.

Their website adds: 'The MHRA has been closely monitoring and assessing cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome reported following administration of the Covid vaccines.

'Based on the available evidence, we are not able to confirm or rule out a causal realtionship with the vaccines.'

The US Food and Drug Administration also warned in July of an 'increased risk' of developing the neurological syndrome with Johnson & Johnson's dose.

The AstraZeneca jab suffered a blow in May after regulators found a very rare blood clot in the brain could be sparked by the vaccine.

Britain's vaccine advisory committee  the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI)  has recommended that under-40s are offered an alternative to the jab.

But a study published last month has found the risk of suffering a blood clot is 'much higher' after catching Covid compared to people who got the AstraZeneca jab.

The latest Oxford University study suggests the risk from clots is higher from the virus itself than the British-made vaccine.

In the biggest study of its kind, researchers looked at the medical records of 29million people in England who had either tested positive or had a vaccine by April.

Among those who caught Covid, 12,614 per 10million suffered blood clots in a vein who would not have otherwise developed the condition.

Whereas the risk among those given the AstraZeneca vaccine was significantly lower at 66 per 10million.

For Pfizer's vaccine  which uses a different technology to AstraZeneca's jab  the researchers did not spot any links between the jab and a clotting complication.
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This is the moment a police officer assaulted a young boy with severe autism at a special needs school in Liverpool before yelling 'you're next' to another child.

In CCTV footage, Christopher Cruise, 57, can be seen threatening to kick the 10-year-old as he curls up on the floor in terror before attempting to crawl through a door.

Cruise, from Merseyside Police's Safer Schools unit, can then be seen grabbing the boy's jacket hood and dragging him across the corridor floor.

The child was left with injuries to his knee following the incident in January last year.

Cruise then pointed to another stunned pupil and told him: 'You're next'.

The officer was convicted of assault but spared prison and would have been thrown off the force if he had not already retired.

The victim's 'furious' family slammed 'bully' Cruise and said he should have gone to jail for the attack.

The victim's 'furious' family slammed 'bully' Cruise and said he should have gone to jail. Picture with friend Michaela Riches

Chris Cruise, seen relaxing at a hotel bar, would have been thrown off the force if he had not already retired

The shocking moment Cruise raises his leg as he threatens to kick the boy

Christopher Cruise, 57, can be seen dragging a young autistic boy, 10, by his jacket hood in CCTV footage from a special needs school in Liverpool

The 10-year-old victim curls up on the floor in terror during the assault, which occurred in January 2020

According to a disciplinary hearing last month, Cruise walked into a classroom and asked the children if they could hear the victim crying.

He then pointed at one of the pupils and told them: 'You're next.'

Cruise, who was a school liaison officer, was convicted of assault against the boy at Crewe Magistrates' Court - which was upheld at Chester Crown Court following an appeal.

Although he retired before the disciplinary process concluded, the hearing in August found Cruise guilty of gross misconduct and he would have been sacked had he remained on the payroll, reported the Liverpool Echo.

According to a teacher at the school, on the day of the assault, Cruise tried to intimidate the boy to prevent him from reporting the attack.

Cruise was fined 800 and ordered to pay 100 in compensation, as well as 500 in prosecution costs and an 85 victim surcharge - while his appeal cost him an extra 1,620 in court fees.

Cruise (pictured), who was a school liaison officer, was convicted of assault against the boy at Crewe Magistrates' Court - which was upheld at Chester Crown Court following an appeal

Grinning Cruise looks a different man away from the shock video with the children in the Merseyside police school

Chris Cruise, flashing a smile in the pub with a friend, tried to intimidate the boy to prevent him from reporting the attack

But relatives of the boy said he should have received a jail sentence.

One told the Echo: 'I think he should have been put in prison.

'His sentence was so lenient. He is a bully, that's all he is, just a bully.'

Speaking earlier about the incident, she added: 'We did not even know about it until Careline called his mum.

'We didn't even take it to court, that was the school and Merseyside Police.

'He has autism and he struggles a lot.

He is much younger in his head, more like a five year old.

'He is also small for his age as he had growth problems.

The moment the boy attempts to crawl through a door as Cruise grabs him the by the hood of his jacket

Cruise dragged the young child across the corridor before asking other children if they could hear him crying, a disciplinary hearing heard

'We are all absolutely furious. His days are hard enough already.'

It is not clear what led to the assault as the boy still struggles to talk about the attack with his family.

Speaking after the misconduct hearing, Detective Superintendent Cheryl Rhodes from the force's Professional Standards Department said: 'Merseyside Police takes the professional standards of its officers and staff extremely seriously.

'The actions of this officer are not reflective of the behaviour and standards of our schools officers who do a fantastic job day in and day out.

'Following the incident all schools officers underwent additional training in conjunction with the Merseyside Police training academy, School Improvement Liverpool and the local authority.

'The public quite rightly have high expectations of our officers and we seek to uphold that and ensure that the meet those expectations.

'Sadly, on a minority of occasions, when they fall short we will take swift and effective action to ensure that we retain the public's confidence in the force.'
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Divers searching a WWII shipwreck in hope of finding the legendary Amber Room treasures say they have come across nothing more than military equipment and the private possessions of passengers.

The 15-man team from the Baltictech diving group had been investigating the wreck of the German steamer Karlsruhe which sank in 1945 off the coast of Poland.

Initial observations of the wreck had revealed several 'non-military crates' as well as what the divers said appeared to be the remains of 'picture frames and rotting canvases.

Pictured: A diver inspects the wreckage of the German vessel The Karlsruhe, which was hoped to contain the missing treasure from the Amber Room that was stolen by the Nazis after being raided and looted in 1945

Divers said on Wednesday that they had found military equipment (pictured, a pair of binoculars amongst the wreckage) and personal belongings, but there was no sign of the lost Amber Room treasures

After holding a minutes silence yesterday in memory of those who died on the ship, the diving team cast a wreath containing the flags of Germany, Poland and Russia into the Baltic Sea

Pictured: A diver descends down to the depths to search the wreckage of the sunken German vessel in the hope of finding the fabled Amber Room treasures

The Amber Room was an opulent jewel-studded chamber built in 18th-century Prussia that was installed in the Catherine Palace near Saint Petersburg, Russia

But after a four-day diving operation the team said they had discovered no sign of lost artwork or treasures, the fate of which remains unknown.

Posting on social media last night they said: The fourth day was devoted to thoroughly checking the bow hold.

All the open and damaged chests contained military equipment and the smaller ones were simply private suitcases of refugees from East Prussia.

We didn't touch them, of course, but they made a huge impression nonetheless.

Everywhere, scattered shoes, belts and private luggage reminded us that nearly 1,000 people died on the wreck of Karlsruhe.

The team added: This evening we have decided to devote a minutes silence to honouring the victims of the catastrophe.

Pictured: One of the divers during the search for the Amber Room treasures. After a four-day diving operation the team said they had discovered no sign of lost artwork or treasures, the fate of which remains unknown

Pictured: A diver is lowered into the water via a lift in the middle of the expedition's vessel. Posting on social media last night they said: The fourth day was devoted to thoroughly checking the bow hold. All the open and damaged chests contained military equipment and the smaller ones were simply private suitcases of refugees from East Prussia'

Pictured: Polish divers search for the World War II German cruiser Karlsruhe at the bottom of the Baltic Sea, where they believed the lost treasures of the Amber Room - looted by the Nazis and missing since 1945 - could have be buried

The 15-man team from the Baltictech diving group had been investigating the wreck of the German steamer Karlsruhe (pictured) which sank in 1945 off the coast of Poland

Pictured: The wreath that was thrown into the water bearing the flags of Germany, Poland and Russia to commemorate the lives lost on board the ship when it sank in 1954

The discovery brings an end to months of speculation after the 196-foot ship was first discovered in September 2020, lying off the coast of Ustka in northwest Poland.

Towards the end of the war, as Hitler's defeat loomed, the Karlsruhe was used to evacuate Germans in what was called Operation Hannibal from what was then the city of Koenigsberg in East Prussia.

According to the ship's official cargo documents, there were 360 tonnes of goods on board and 1,083 refugees.

The divers suspected that the Karlsruhe may contain the lost treasure.

On its final voyage, the ship departed from Koenigsberg and was protected by two minesweeping ships, suggesting there was a large, valuable cargo on board.

The ship is not to be confused with the Karlsruhe which was also recently discovered off the coast of Norway, which was sunk in 1940.

Speculation that it might contain the legendary Amber Room came after it was revealed that the ship had left the city of Konigsberg.

Tomasz Stachura from the Baltictech diving group said at the time of the initial discovery: 'It was in Konigsberg that the Amber Chamber was seen for the last time.

'From there the Karlsruhe left on its last voyage with a large cargo.

For three centuries, the Amber Room, which is sometimes dubbed the eighth wonder of the world, stood in the imperial Catherine Palace near St Petersburg.

Covering more than 590 sq ft and containing over 6 tonnes of amber, it was dismantled by German troops during the occupation of the USSR.

In 1941, the Amber Room was placed in storage in the then East Prussian city of Konigsberg (now Kaliningrad), and then disappeared.

The group of Polish amateur divers last year found the wreck of the Karlsruhe, a German ship which was sank by the Royal Navy in 1945, 289 ft deep and 43 mi from the Polish coastal town of Ustka

Members of the Baltictech diving group are now beginning their search of the shipwreck, cracking open containers and exploring the site for the lost loot

Stachura from Baltictech earlier said: 'The German steamer Karlsruhe, which after Gustloff, Goyi and Steuben was another unit participating in Operation Hannibal, set off on her last journey from Pilawa on April 12, 1945 and was the last ship to leave Krolewiec before the Russians took it.

'She brought 1,083 refugees and 360 tons of cargo with her. She set off on her last journey under a strong escort.

'Sunken April 13, 1945 in the morning. Only 113 people were saved.

'We don't want to get excited, but if the Germans were to take the Amber Chamber across the Baltic Sea, then Karlsruhe Steamer was their last chance .

After holding a minutes silence yesterday in memory of those who died on the ship, the diving team cast a wreath containing the flags of Germany, Poland and Russia into the Baltic Sea.

The ship brought 1,083 refugees and 360 tons of cargo and has been lying 290ft underwater for decades

The shipwreck was found at the bottom of the Baltic Sea several dozen kilometers north of Ustka

Divers have discovered military vehicles, porcelain and many crates with so far unknown contents

Divers found the shipwreck at a depth of 88 meters and say most of it is practically intact

Expedition leader Tomek Stachura previously told MailOnline: 'It was in Koenigsberg that the Amber Chamber was seen for the last time.

'If the Germans were to take the Amber Chamber across the Baltic Sea, then the Karlsruhe steamer was their last chance.'

Divers first used dive robots with cameras to explore the wreck, located 289ft below the surface, and discovered numerous locked cargo boxes on the ship.

Stachura said before the dives there is 'a one to two per cent chance that the room is actually in the numerous locked boxes that we saw during the last dive with robots'.

Historian Piotr Michalik said: 'The ship was very heavily loaded with 360 tonnes and two minesweepers protected it, so there could have been valuable cargo on board.'

Stachura had said that initial observations of the wreck had revealed several 'non-military crates' as well as what appears to be the remains of 'picture frames and rotting canvases'.

The Amber Room was assembled in Russia's Catherine Palace near St Petersburg and stood there for three centuries, but it was dismantled by German troops during their ill-fated invasion of the USSR.

In 1941, the Amber Room's contents were placed in storage in Koenigsberg - now a Russian city known as Kaliningrad - and then disappeared when Hitler's regime fell to ruins in 1945.

The wreck was found lying 288ft below the Baltic in September last year by the Baltictech divers.

A ring-shaped object is displayed on the screen after divers carried out a survey of the sea floor following the discovery of the Karlsruhe, a wrecked German steamer, earlier this year

A clue to the Amber Room mystery? A screen shows a man-made object on the floor of the Baltic Sea where divers searching for the long-lost treasures say that a sonar survey has revealed chests and other objects lying around a wrecked Nazi ship

The wreck of the German cruiser Karlsruhe was discovered off the Polish coast by divers exploring the area in search of the ship which was sunk in April 1945

The explorers say that the ship was in Konigsberg around the time the Amber Room was last seen

The ship is not to be confused with the Karlsruhe which was also recently discovered off the coast of Norway, which was sunk in 1940

Tomasz Zwara from Baltictech added: 'The history and available documentation show that the Karlsruhe was leaving the port in a great hurry and with a large load'

Stachura said at the time: 'It is practically intact. In its holds, we discovered military vehicles, porcelain and many crates with contents still unknown.'

Stachura added that as the people who died on the ship were German citizens, Germany could declare the site a sea grave, which would make it illegal to disturb it.

After discovering the wreck, the divers later said it was too deep to salvage, saying that 'we started the story but now it's up to someone else to finish it'.

In 2015, Poland was hit with Gold Train fever after explorers in the town of Walbrzych said they had found a tunnel which they believed was laden with looted Nazi treasure.

But after weeks of hype and speculation, when the explorers eventually began digging they discovered the tunnel was empty.

The episode has led to a general wariness surrounding claims of stolen World War II treasure being discovered, with authorities wanting 'real evidence' to support the claims rather than rumours.

Russian craftsmen have since constructed a replica Amber Room in the Catherine Palace, which was completed in 2003 after decades of work.

The remains of the Amber Room after it was seized by the Nazis, who packed the amber panels in 27 crates and shipped them to Germany, where they vanished and have not been seen since

A reconstruction of the Amber Room was made in 1979 and completed at the Catherine Palace in St Petersburg (pictured)
A trainee accountant has won more than 13,000 after she was sacked for leaving work to pick up her sick child from school.

Catherine Henderson got a text in the office telling her her child - who suffered from an underlying health condition - was ill and needed collecting.

She informed colleagues she had to leave for the 'emergency situation' because no bosses or managers were present, an employment tribunal was told.

But her bosses viewed her sudden exit as 'gross misconduct' and sent her a letter of dismissal just four days later after she had been signed off from work due to stress.

Mrs Henderson, who had only worked for the accountancy firm for five months, has been awarded 13,080 after successfully arguing she had been unfairly dismissed.

The hearing in Scotland was told Mrs Henderson began working as a trainee accountant for AccountsNet Ltd - an accounting firm for small businesses based in the town of Livingston, West Lothian (pictured) - in October 2019

The hearing in Scotland was told Mrs Henderson began working as a trainee accountant for AccountsNet Ltd - an accounting firm for small businesses based in the town of Livingston, West Lothian - in October 2019.

The panel heard one of her children has an 'underlying health condition' and required medical attention as well as 'additional support and care'.

She had already informed her bosses of her child's condition in January 2020, when she told bosses she would be absent from work for three days to care for them.

Her first absence was recorded as 'compassionate leave' whilst the other two were taken as unpaid leave.

Mrs Henderson later agreed a flexible working pattern with her line manager, under which she would work from 9am until 3pm with no lunch break so she could be home for her child when school finished.

But two months later, on Mrs Henderson's first day back in the office after a week's annual leave, another 'more formal' meeting was called to discuss her hours.

During the March 2 meeting her bosses told her her hours were having a 'detrimental effect on the business'.

But Mrs Henderson said she was unable to go back to full-time hours because of the support her child required.

The tribunal heard that after returning to her desk she received a text from her child's school telling her the child was ill and needed collecting.

She informed colleagues she had to leave for the 'emergency situation' because no bosses or managers were present, an employment tribunal was told (file photo)

She informed colleagues she had to leave for the 'emergency situation', though managers were still in another meeting.

Later that morning her colleagues told Charissa Gracie, the practice manager, where she had gone, adding to her Mrs Henderson said she would call her.

Mrs Henderson later sent a text to Mrs Gracie to explain her absence, but the latter had 'expected a telephone call' from her, the panel heard.

The following day she texted Mrs Gracie again, stating she was 'unwell due to stress' and her GP had signed her off from work for two weeks.

But three days later the firm sacked her from her 18,500 job, citing her ongoing 'absences' and the fact she had sent 'text messages rather than telephoning'.

The dismissal letter also highlighted concerns Mrs Henderson was 'not acting in good faith' by reporting herself as sick when 'it was her child who was unwell'.

And it said her abrupt exit to collect her child without authorisation was 'gross misconduct'.

Mrs Henderson wrote to her employers to explain why she thought the dismissal was unfair, but was not given the right to appeal. She later sued them for unfair dismissal.

Employment Judge Eleanor Mannion said: 'The termination letter confirmed that [AccountsNet Ltd] viewed the fact that [Mrs Henderson] had left work as gross misconduct, classifying it as an absence without authority.

'Mrs Gracie confirmed that [Mrs Henderson] leaving her place of work on 2 March 2020 was the principal reason for the dismissal.

'[Mrs Henderson] stated that she was required to take time off work on an urgent basis as her child was unwell.

'This was not challenged by [AccountsNet Ltd]. Instead, they had an issue in the manner in which she left her place of work as she did not speak to a manager in advance of this.

'It was necessary for the Claimant to take time off work on 2 March 2020 to provide assistance to her child who was ill given her medical condition.

'[Mrs Henderson] informed her colleagues of this and sent a text message to Mrs Gracie. This was done as soon as reasonably practicable.

'Further, given the leave amounted to one day, it is a reasonable period of time.'

Mrs Henderson's claim for automatic unfair dismissal was successful and her ex-employers had to pay her 13,080.55 for loss of earnings and loss of statutory rights.

Another claim of unfair dismissal citing her requests for flexible working hours was dismissed.
The judge who sentenced one of Australia's most notorious gang rapists has warned against his imminent release from prison as the 'vicious, cowardly bully' has never shown any remorse and even blamed his victims for the sickening attacks.

Former District Court judge Michael Finnane QC handed Mohammed Skaf, now 38, a record 32 year prison sentence over a string of terrifying sexual assaults in Sydney involving 14 other men, including his ringleader brother Bilal.

Few crimes in recent Australian history have stirred more community outrage and fear than the series of pack rapes committed by the group of young Lebanese-Australian men targeting 'white women'.

One of the victims, an 18-year-old woman, was raped 40 times by 14 men over four hours in an attack coordinated by mobile phone. She was then dumped at a train station after being hosed down.

During her ordeal the woman was called an 'Aussie pig', told she was going to get it 'Leb-style' and asked if 'Leb c*** tasted better than Aussie c***'.

Many of the rapists have never been identified and police fear there were more victims who did not come forward.

Mohammed Skaf in a police photo taken at the time of his arrest in October 2000. He is set to leave jail within weeks

Mohammed Skaf (left) is seen trying to help pull a girl from the sand shortly before being arrested by police

But with his non-parole period now complete, Skaf is set to walk free in October after two decades behind bars.

'What concerns me is that according to reports of the Parole Board hearings, Mohammed Skaf has never expressed any remorse,' Mr Finnane told The Daily Telegraph.

'That could mean that he is a continuing threat.'

During his sentencing Mr Finnane described the sex offender as a 'vicious, cowardly bully' who is not only arrogant but also 'a liar as well as being a rapist'.

He said the offences perpetrated by the group are crimes which are normally only read about 'in the context of wartime atrocities'.

Skaf was granted parole to leave jail after a hearing last month.

He's been denied parole several times since 2018 when he was first eligible for release.

Former District Court judge Michael Finnane QC handed Mohammed Skaf a record 32-year prison sentence over a string of terrifying sexual assaults in Sydney involving 14 other men including his ringleader brother Bilal

SKAF GANG RAMPAGE: A TIMELINE August 10th, 2000: Two teenagers (one 17 and the other 18) were offered drugs. They were taken by car to the gang, who were waiting at Northcote Park in Greenacre. They were forced to perform sex acts on eight men. August 12th, 2000: Mohammed took a 16-year-old friend to his brother and friends. Bilal and another male raped the girl in front of 12 men. August 30th, 2000: Woman known only as Ms C was raped by Mohamed who told her he was going to 'f**k her Leb style'. She was taken to a separate location and raped and assaulted by 14 men for for six hours. September 4th, 2000: Two girls were attacked at a train station and taken to a home where they were assaulted by three men over a five hour period. Advertisement

State Parole Authority chair David Frearson told the August parole hearing Skaf's offences were 'clearly horrendous' but there needed to be a safe integration for him back into society.

His full-term custody sentence of 23 years expires in January 2024.

He has now spent more than half his life in prison after the State Parole Authority delayed its decision multiple times as it considered what supervised community reintegration opportunities were available to such a case.

The preferred pathway for Skaf was to participate in an external leave program.

Skaf then would be able to leave for work, education or other approved reasons, but would be supervised at all times and return to prison each night.

But following Covid-19 restrictions external day leave for all NSW prisons was cancelled from June with no date set for this to resume.

It also remains problematic that Skaf continues to blame his victims and remained 'a denier after all these years,' Judge Frearson told a review hearing in February.

No convicted sex offender who had taken part in such disturbing crimes denied their part in the offending and was considered an above-average risk to the community has been granted status for leave, Judge Frearson added.

Due to the nature of Skaf's crimes, one of his conditions will be mandatory electronic monitoring, among others.

Skaf must complete a Real Understanding of Self-Help program before the judge said he would publish his decision in the coming weeks.

'You need to be very very careful, you stay out of trouble and co-operate, if you're given parole, you must abide strictly by the conditions,' Judge Frearson told Skaf on Friday.

'If you don't you have to come back.'

'Of course,' Skaf said.

An artist's impression of how Mohammed Skaf looked when appearing at his adjourned parole hearing in February

Judge Finnane has warned against Skaf's imminent release from prison as the 'vicious, cowardly bully' has never shown any remorse and even blamed his victims for the sickening attacks

Although Mr Finnane has sounded the alarm on Skaf's release he acknowledged that one day his sentence will eventually have to come to an end and feels confident the parole board will take all the necessary steps to protect the community.

The former judge also said that Mohammed was 'clearly' under the influence of his older brother, Bilal, who was considered the ring leader.

'Without him, I doubt that Mohammed would prove to be much of a menace, but I say this without knowing the material before the Parole Board,' he said.

Bilal Skaf is currently serving a 38 year jail sentence for the horrific crimes, with a non-parole period of 32 years, after his original 55-year sentence was quashed after several appeals.
But ministers are piling pressure on the JCVI for a booster programme including 35million to begin this month

But numbers of confirmed Covid patients in hospital are still a fraction of those seen at the second wave peak

Daily Covid hospitalisation rates in Scotland jumped 50 per cent in a week, from an average of 76 to 114

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Pressure for a mass British booster vaccine programme continued to mount today as figures showed Scotland's daily Covid hospital admissions rose by 50 per cent in a week.

Data from the Government's Covid dashboard showed that on average there were 114 patients being admitted each day to hospitals in Scotland in the week to September 1, compared to 76 the week prior.

The number seeking treatment for the virus has risen steadily since schools went back from the summer break in the middle of August, when there were about 40 Covid admissions per day.

Daily hospitalisations are now at 60 per cent of the levels seen at the peak of the second wave, but patients are presenting with milder illness and being discharged quicker than earlier phases of the pandemic.

There were 883 Covid patients in hospital with the virus yesterday compared to more than 2,000 at the height of the winter wave in January  in a sign the vaccines are working.

Eighty-two patients were on mechanical ventilators by the most recent count on Wednesday and the country is recording seven deaths from the virus per day, on average.

The growing hospital numbers in Scotland come amid increasing calls for a more broad booster vaccine programme in the UK.

At the moment just half a million Britons with severely weakened immune systems are eligible but the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), is meeting today to decide who else should get them.

Professor Adam Finn, an expert in child health and JCVI member, insisted boosters are not needed in large numbers across the country and it's 'not clear' that the UK is seeing waning protection against severe disease.

The JCVI is expected to recommend boosters only for the very elderly, more immunosupressed people and possibly those with severe underlying conditions.

Vaccine Minister Nadhim Zahawi, Health Secretary Sajid Javid and the Prime Minister all said this week they want boosters to be given out and are preparing for a widespread rollout.

Some 114 Covid patients were admitted to hospital in Scotland in the week up to September 1, compared to a seven-day rolling average of 76 on August 24 - marking an increase of 50 per cent. The 114 figure is 58 per cent of the 197 average daily admissions seen at the peak of the pandemic on January 11. But the figure includes anyone who tested positive in the two weeks before admission, the day they were admitted or during their stay, suggesting the number of those in hospital from Covid is lower than the number reported

Covid hospital admissions in Scotland fell to a low of six on May 3 due to the success of the vaccine rollout and Covid restrictions. But admissions began to tick up again as restrictions eased in the summer

Professor Finn also expressed his concerns that a decision on booster jabs for coronavirus would be made too quickly.

He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'Although there's waning against mild disease, we're not clear that we're seeing waning against severe disease, and the programme is really driven by trying to keep people out of hospital and stop people dying rather than by trying to control the spread of the vaccine.'

Professor Finn raised concerns about the limited global supply of the vaccine, adding that 'each dose going into the arm of someone who's immune is not going into the arm of someone who's got no immunity at all'.

The latest figures from Scotland show that a seven-day rolling average of 114 people went to hospital in the week up to September 1.

WHO chief calls on the US and Europe to halt COVID-19 vaccine boosters for rest of the year and says he is 'appalled' rich countries are not offering their supply of shots to poor nations The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) has called on countries to refrain from offering COVID-19 vaccine booster shots through the end of the year. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said rich nations such as the U.S., France and Germany - that have large supplies of vaccines - should make the doses available for poorer countries. Tedros also said he was 'appalled' after hearing comments from a top association of pharmaceutical manufacturers that vaccine supplies are high enough to allow for both booster shots for people in well-supplied countries and first jabs in poorer countries that face shortages. 'I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the world's poor should be satisfied with leftovers,' he told a news conference. 'Because manufacturers have prioritized or been legally obliged to fulfill bilateral deals with rich countries willing to pay top dollar, low income countries have been deprived of the tools to protect their people.' Tedros had previously called for a moratorium on boosters through the end of September. But wealthy countries - including Denmark, France, Greece, Germany, Spain and the UK - have begun or are considering plans to offer third shots of two-dose vaccines to vulnerable people such as the elderly or those with compromised immune systems. Israel has been providing third doses to a wide swath of people who already received a full two-dose regimen months earlier. And last month, U.S. health officials recommended all Americans get boosters to shore up their protection amid evidence that the vaccines' effectiveness is falling. Tedros acknowledged that third doses might be necessary for at-risk groups, but insisted the scientific justification for boosters remains unclear. 'We do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated,' he said. U.S. health officials are continuing to assess the science and utility of boosters, and there are growing indications that the country may miss the Biden administration's September 20 target date for a wide rollout of extra shots for vaccinated people. Advertisement

And 140 went to hospital on that date who tested positive for Covid, the highest number since January 28 when 141 were admitted.

And the 114 figure is 58 per cent of the 197 average daily admissions seen at the peak of the pandemic in Scotland on January 11.

But the NHS routinely tests all patients in hospitals and every person who tested positive 14 days before admission, on their day of admission or during their stay in hospital is included.

This means, for example, that someone in hospital with a broken leg who happens to test positive is included in the count, even if they do not feel unwell from the virus.

And the number of confirmed Covid patients in hospital  who are primarily being treated for the virus  stood at an average of 732 on September 5, just 36 per cent of the 2,019 at the peak last winter.

Hospitalisation across the UK are also on the rise, but at a much slower rate. The number admitted of daily Covid admissions rose just 3 per cent  from 934 to 961  compared to Scotland's 50 per cent.

An average of 7,499 Covid patients were in hospital in the UK on September 1, while 1,013 were in mechanical ventilation beds.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said yesterday she was hopeful that there would not be a return to Covid restrictions in the country, as the exponential rise in infections seen across the country appeared to be slowing down.

But she warned case levels  which surged seven-fold from 872 to 6,951 between August 1 and September 1  are still 'very high'.

It comes as the JCVI are meeting today to decide who in the UK should be given a third dose of a Covid vaccine.

Booster jabs are expected to be dished out to Britons whose immunity is waning and are vulnerable.

This group would include over-16s who are clinically extremely vulnerable, over-70s, those living in care homes for older adults and frontline health and social care workers.

Booster doses are currently available to around 500,000 immunosuppressed people, because they did not respond as strongly to the first and second doses as the rest of the population.

In interim advice published in June, the JCVI said a second stage of any booster rollout should include all over-50s, those aged 16 to 49 that are at-risk from Covid or the flu and adults who live with immunosuppressed people.

To reach a decision on the approach the UK should take, the JCVI will consider the results of the Cov-Boost study by researchers at Southampton University.

The study examined how effective seven different Covid vaccines  including Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Novavax and Janssen  were when used as a third dose after wither two doses of Pfizer or AstraZeneca.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said on Tuesday he was 'very confident' a booster programme will start this month and that he was just waiting on advice on 'who actually gets it and when'.

Mr Zahawi said on Monday around 35million Britons will get third doses in a rapid booster programme beginning later this month.

But the JCVI is confident Britain will not need a mass booster campaign for all over-50s because of the 12-week interval between first and second doses used in the UK at the start of the rollout.

Israel followed the advice of vaccine manufacturers in ensuring a maximum of three weeks between doses, which has since been shown in multiple studies to be less effective at boosting and maintaining immunity to the virus than a longer interval between jabs.

Data yesterday showed Covid infections in Israel fell sharply after its mass booster rollout.

Mr Javid told Sky News yesterday: 'We've received interim advice on boosters and that was as a few weeks ago and I've published it.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said yesterday she was hopeful that there would not be a return to Covid restrictions in Scotland, as the exponential rise in infections seen across the country appeared to be slowing down (shown in graph). But she warned case levels  which surged seven-fold from 872 to 6,951 between August 1 and September 1  are still 'very high'

Meanwhile, a further 17 people died within 28 days of a positive Covid test in Scotland yesterday, bringing the national total 8,198. Daily death rates in the country have remained relatively flat despite a spike in infections that saw new daily cases peak at 7,514

'That was clear that there should be some kind of a booster programme. So I'm very confident there will be a booster programme.

'In terms of who actually gets it and when, we're waiting for final advice that could come across certainly in the next few days from the JCVI.

He continued: 'And I need to see that advice because they rightly are looking at studies that they have done to look at [whether] we should be mixing vaccines, for example. Should people be getting the same vaccine?

'They're also looking at whether it makes sense to co-administrate for everyone, with a flu jab as well.

'So that work is almost done and based on the timeline that they've given us, I'm confident that we can start the booster programme this month.'

But the heads of the AstraZeneca have warned that booster jabs may not be needed for everyone in Britain, and a rush to roll it out nationwide risks putting additional strain on the NHS.

Pascal Soriot, chief executive of the company, said the UK remains 'a few weeks away' from being able to make a decision on pushing a vaccine booster programme across the country.

Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Soriot, along with Executive Vice President of BioPharmaceuticals R&D, Sir Mene Pangalos, warned that moving 'too quickly' to boost the whole adult population would deprive scientists of insights into the effectiveness of two vaccine doses.

They add: 'A third dose for all may be needed, but it may not. Mobilising the NHS for a boosting program that is not needed would potentially add unnecessary burden on the NHS over the long winter months.

'Because NHS staff and resources are scarce, another national mobilisation would potentially leave us with fewer resources for cancer screenings and the other care provided by doctors and nurses each day.'

NHS staff push back against 'unnecessary' compulsory Covid vaccines plan NHS workers have pushed back against plans to make Covid jabs compulsory by winter. The Government today launched a six-week consultation into plans to make vaccination a legal requirement to work with NHS patients. Under the plans, 1.2million frontline NHS staff could be required by law to be jabbed to reduce transmission in hospitals. But unions have hit out at the plans today, arguing mandatory vaccination was unnecessary because of high uptake rates. The Royal College of Nurses (RCN) expressed doubts over whether making jabs compulsory would increase the number of people taking up the offer of a vaccine. And the NHS Confederation  which represents NHS trusts across England  said 'the focus must remain on increasing vaccine confidence' rather than forcing staff to take jabs. A member of the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)  an independent body that advises the Government on vaccine policy  today said making jabs mandatory would feel 'like an admission of failure'. Figures show 88 per cent of NHS staff are fully vaccinated and around 92 per cent have had a first dose, despite being first offered a jab last December. The numbers are lower in London, where there has been more hesitancy about vaccination, with only 86 per cent have had a first jab. Uptake among health workers is slightly less than the national average for over-18s in England, with 88.5 per cent having taken up the offer of a first dose. Those who refuse the jab could be barred from working with patients, meaning that they will likely be redeployed or risk losing their jobs. Social Care Minister Helen Whately today said staff who reject the vaccine could be moved back to office roles. But NHS bosses fear it could trigger a staffing crisis, hampering efforts to tackle the enormous care backlog. They warned it could be discriminatory. A study in the British Medical Journal in February found rates among ethnic minority doctors and healthcare staff were significantly lower than rates among white staff. Advertisement

The NHS had been primed to offer third doses to over-50s at the start of this week but it was pushed back because the JCVI was waiting for the Cov-Boost trial data before it gives the programme the green light.

Ministers have been criticised for failing to 'get on with' giving booster shots, with fears this could allow an autumn surge.

The delay means the UK is lagging behind many leading nations including the US, where an aggressive campaign of boosters has helped curb hospital cases.

But the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) has called on rich nations to refrain from offering booster shots through the end of the year and instead make doses available for poorer countries.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said he was 'appalled' after hearing comments from a top association of pharmaceutical manufacturers that vaccine supplies are high enough to allow for both booster shots for people in well-supplied countries and first jabs in poorer countries that face shortages.

He told a news conference: 'I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the world's poor should be satisfied with leftovers.

'Because manufacturers have prioritised or been legally obliged to fulfil bilateral deals with rich countries willing to pay top dollar, low income countries have been deprived of the tools to protect their people.'

Dr Tedros acknowledged that third doses might be necessary for at-risk groups, but insisted the scientific justification for boosters remains unclear.

He said: 'We do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated.

'A month ago, I called for a global moratorium on booster doses, at least until the end of September to prioritize vaccinating the most at risk people around the world who are yet to receive their first dose.

'There has been little change in the global situation since then.

'So today, I'm calling for an extension of the moratorium until at least the end of the year to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40 percent of its population.'

It comes as Britain's daily Covid deaths fell by eight per cent in a week yesterday, as fatalities continue to fluctuate despite the uptick in infections and hospitalisations.

Department of Health bosses posted 191 new deaths within 28 days of a positive Covid test, down from the 207 recorded last Wednesday. It brings the UK's total death toll to 133,674.

But the UK recorded 38,975 new positive tests today  a jump of 9.2 per cent on the 35,693 recorded last Wednesday.

Hospital admissions with the virus also continued to increase at a similar rate, rising 10.8 per cent to 933 on September 4, the latest date data is available for.

Meanwhile, Britain's vaccination drive continued to edge onward, with 26,624 first doses dished out and 85,848 second jabs given yesterday.

It means 48.3million (88.9 per cent) Britons have now had a first dose of the vaccine, while 43.6million (80.3 per cent) are fully protected.


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Tories raised fears that Boris Johnson's massive 12billion tax raid will simply be swallowed up today - after just five MPs rebelled against the plans.

The PM's dramatic move to bail out the NHS and overhaul social care with an eye-watering hike in national insurance sailed through the Commons by 319 to 248.

Threats of a major Conservative revolt melted away after Downing Street hinted at a reshuffle and made some minor tweaks to the policy.

In the end only Esther McVey, John Redwood, Christopher Chope, Philip Davies and Neil Hudson opposed the government.

Another 37 Tories did not vote, including a number of 'Red Wall' MPs who have been deeply concerned about the proposals.

The Government's working majority of more than 80 was barely trimmed to 71 even though Cabinet ministers and many MPs have been privately alarmed that Mr Johnson is abandoning a manifesto promise and taking the tax burden to record peacetime levels.

Former Cabinet minister Sir John Redwood said today that he had received no satisfactory guarantees that the extra money would get results. The NHS will get 10billion a year of the revenue raised for the next three years, with an 86,000 cap on social care costs coming in from October 2023.

'Yesterday I asked the government what reduction in waiting lists would we get for the extra tax money for the NHS?' he said.

'They said they could make no promises on reducing waits so I voted against the tax. The current NHS budget is more than the total income tax revenue.'

Tory peer Lord Lilley told LBC: 'It was a mistake to introduce a permanent tax rise to deal with a temporary problem, the backlog, and to try and deal with some problem of potentially catastrophic costs of social care by taxation, rather than bringing in an insurance option for people if they wanted to avoid that.

'So I think it's a double mistake from that point of view'.

Fresh doubts were raised today after it emerged that the NHS has been recruiting managers on salaries of more than 200,000 a year.

In a round of interviews care minister Helen Whately said the Government had made 'difficult choices' and stressed it will be keeping a 'really close eye' on how extra funding is spent by the NHS, .

'People working in the NHS in those kinds of roles are taking on a lot of responsibility, they're big jobs, and they're moving from having more senior managers in the NHS to fewer through doing this, the NHS reckons that it needs to have that level of pay to have the right people in those jobs,' she told Sky News.

'But I do think the Government keeps a really close eye on making sure that NHS money is spent carefully and appropriately because we want as much of the funding as possible to go to the front line.'

Boris Johnson has fended off a Tory rebellion and secured MPs' backing for his controversial 12 billion National Insurance tax raid to pay for health and social care despite seeing his Commons majority cut

The Government's working majority of more than 80 was merely trimmed to 71, with a number of Conservatives choosing to abstain while others claiming they were only voting with the greatest reluctance

HOW TORY OPPOSITION MELTED AWAY Voted against: Sir Christopher Chope Philip Davies Dr Neil Hudson Esther McVey John Redwood No vote recorded: Lee Anderson Stuart Anderson Steve Baker John Baron Jake Berry Peter Bone Sir Peter Bottomley Andrew Bridgen Sir William Cash Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown David Davis Dehenna Davison Richard Drax Philip Dunne Dr Luke Evans Marcus Fysh Sir Roger Gale Richard Graham Adam Holloway Julian Knight Sir Greg Knight Kwasi Kwarteng Ian Liddell-Grainger Tim Loughton Craig Mackinlay Stephen McPartland Johnny Mercer Annie Marie Morris Dr Matthew Offord Andrew Percy Mark Pritchard Andrew Rosindell Henry Smith John Stevenson Julian Sturdy Tom Tugendhat Sir Charles Walker Advertisement

In the Commons debate, the leader of the Northern Research Group of Tory MPs, Jake Berry, warned that by listing the levy on people's payslips as a health and social care charge, it would 'never go down, it can only go up'.

'No party is ever going to stand at an election and say I've got a good idea, vote for me, I'll cut the NHS tax,' he said.

'It is fundamentally un-Conservative and in the long term it will massively damage the prospects of our party because we will never outbid the Labour Party in the arms race of an NHS tax.'

Former minister Steve Baker said the party was facing a 'generational crisis' due to its inability to fund promises dating back more than a century.

'Now the Conservative Party, at some stage in our lifetimes, is going to have to rediscover what it stands for because I have to say at the moment we keep doing things we hate, because we feel we must,' he said.

Mr Johnson attempted to quell the backlash at PMQs yesterday by suggesting the insurance industry could protect people from having to sell their homes to pay for the cost of care, amid claims the 86,000 cap would not be enough.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that someone with assets of 186,000 - including their home - could still be forced to find 86,000 under the Government's proposals.

'Where does the Prime Minister think that they are going to get that 86,000 without selling their home?' he said.

Mr Johnson replied: 'This is the first time that the state has actually come in to deal with the threat of these catastrophic costs, thereby enabling the private sector, the financial services industry, to supply the insurance products that people need to guarantee themselves against the costs of care.'

The Government had announced that its 36 billion social care fund would be spent on innovation and new technology, with the investment paying for new treatments, diagnostic and surgical methods to help see more patients quickly and safely.

Boris Johnson had clashed brutally with Sir Keir Starmer over the tax rises to bail out the NHS and social care.

In bad-tempered exchanges at the first PMQs since the summer break, Mr Johnson denied that the eye-watering National Insurance rise was 'unfair'.

He also dodged as the Labour leader goaded him that despite the massive costs elderly people still face having to sell their homes to fund care.

Mr Johnson swiped that 'at least we have a plan' as he tried to turn the tables on Sir Keir for failing to come up with an alternative. The clashes came ahead of a crucial vote on the policy this evening.

A Labour amendment calling for Chancellor Rishi Sunak to publish an impact assessment of the national insurance increase was rejected by 335 votes to 243, majority 92.

Mr Johnson spent almost an hour addressing a private meeting of Tory MPs at Westminster ahead of the vote on the health and social care levy.

The PM told the backbench 1922 Committee that the Conservatives remained the party of free enterprise, the private sector and 'low taxation'.

'We should never forget that,' he said.

At the same time, he said that he could not think of a 'better use' for public money than spending on the NHS.

Conservative MP Peter Bone called for a Social Care Bill to be placed before the Commons before agreeing to a tax rise to pay for care.

The Wellingborough MP said: 'There should have been a Care Bill, a Social Care Bill, we should have had that Bill, we should have been able to debate the principle of that and then immediately afterwards voted on the Ways and Means. But we have got this mixed up, we are giving more money to the National Health Service.'

He added it was 'quite acceptable' to raise tax to pay for the NHS but added he was 'very unhappy with the procedure' in the Commons as MPs were 'doing it without the detail'.

Conservative MP Richard Drax told the Commons he is concerned by the 'direction of travel' the Government has taken with its proposal to raise national insurance.

The South Dorset MP said: 'Taxes are the highest for, as we have heard, 60 to 70 years, this, under a Conservative Government. For me, and I think for many of us and around the country too, the alarm bells are ringing.'

PM's 12bn tax hike 'will be swallowed by the NHS' The 12billion a year extra for health and social care as a result of Boris Johnson's tax hike risks being swallowed up by the NHS, an economic think tank warned. The Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) warned that little might be left available for social care even once funding from the new levy is expected to shift away from the NHS. Under the plans announced by the Prime Minister the NHS will get the bulk of the 36billion raised in the first three years, with 5.4billion for social care in England. But that balance is expected to tip towards social care in subsequent years as the 86,000 cap on costs introduced from October 2023 starts to require funding. The IFS suggested that the experiences of the past 40 years showed that NHS spending plans are almost always topped up, meaning that health would continue to require the bulk of the revenue raised by the new tax. Ben Zaranko, a research economist at the IFS, said: 'The extra funding provided for the NHS in yesterday's announcement will result in spending growing at 3.9% a year between 2018/19 and 2024/25, exactly the same rate of growth as was planned between 2018/19 and 2023/24. 'That suggests little or no long-term additional costs as a result of the pandemic. 'History suggests these plans will be topped up further - they have been in almost every year for the last 40 years. 'That could leave little if any of the tax rises announced yesterday available for social care.' Health Secretary Sajid Javid insisted that 'more and more' of the money raised by the levy would go towards social care in future years. The IFS said that between 1982 and the start of the pandemic, keeping to initial real-terms spending plans set out by governments would have meant health spending growing at an average rate of 2.7% per year. But on average, it grew by 4.1 per cent per year: 1.4 percentage points, or 53 per cent, faster than planned a year previously by the ministers in charge of the public finances at the time. The IFS acknowledged that 'this time could be different' and 'with a multi-year settlement, the NHS may be able to plan and spend funds more effectively, improving health system performance and removing the need for any future top-up'. 'But the experience of the past 40 years is that this new, shiny set of NHS spending plans should be viewed as a lower bound, not a firm set of limits.' The Health Secretary was challenged to give a clear guarantee that money would shift towards social care in a Times Radio interview. Mr Javid said: 'It's clear that more and more after three years will shift towards social care because, not least, by that time the money over the next three years that will go to the NHS will be able to deal with so much of the challenge they are facing around the waiting list. Advertisement

Tory backbencher Anne Marie Morris said: 'Is there a proper plan? We have a document, it's called the plan, but I think for me a plan is something which sets out very clearly not just ambition, and that is there aplenty, but sets out specifically what is going to be done, when it is going to be done by, who is going to be doing it, and how will - the Government in this case, and the NHS - be held accountable.

'What will be the reporting mechanism? And I fear I see none of that. And if I'm asking taxpayers to pay a very substantial sum, that I think is the least that we owe them.'

Conservative MP Dehenna Davison explained that she was abstaining from the vote on the Government's social care plans because 'I believe there are more discussions to be had to get this exact policy right for my constituents'.

The Government had announced that its new 36 billion social care fund will be spent on innovation and new technology.

The investment, which will take place over three years, will pay for new treatments, diagnostic and surgical methods to help see more patients quickly and safely using tools such as surgical hubs, virtual wards and artificial intelligence.

It comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the package as a way to help the NHS recover from the coronavirus pandemic and reform the adult social care system so people no longer face catastrophic care costs.

The majority of the cash is going towards the NHS, with social care receiving 5.3billion over the next three years.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said the new funding will see the NHS deliver an extra nine million checks, scans, and operations for patients across the country in a bid to try and drive down waiting times.

It added the new surgical hubs, already used in hospitals such as Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, would help fast-track a number of planned operations, including cataract removal, hysterectomies and hip and knee replacements.

The hubs will be expanded across the country with more expected to be set up at existing hospital sites later on in the year.

Pop-up clinics are also going to be established while virtual wards and home assessments allow for patients to be given medical support from home.

Dominic Cummings reignited his war with Mr Johnson yesterday as he blasted the 12billion tax raid and claimed the extra cash will not solve the NHS treatment backlog.

The PM's former top adviser said 'No10 can't do anything but spend' taxpayers' money as he said the National Insurance hike was a 'good day' for Labour and Tory MPs should 'put all those 'party of low tax' speeches away'.

He said the PM's plans 'won't solve waiting lists' or problems in the social care system as he argued the Tories are making young people 'work harder to subsidise older richer people'.

Mr Cummings said the tax hike comes after younger generations had already been 'screwed by a decade of hapless Tory government' which had left many people unable to buy a house and with lower wages.

In return for the big tax rise - more than 1,000 a year for some higher earners - Mr Johnson has pledged that no individual will have to pay more than 86,000 for social care after October 2023.

But there are major doubts about whether the reforms of the system will achieve, as well as fears that the NHS will simple swallow up all the funding and then demand more.

The health service will receive the vast majority of the 36billion raised by yesterday's National Insurance hike over the next three years, with social care receiving a 5.3billion slice.

But health bosses said the settlement leaves a 'significant shortfall' and warned millions of patients will still face long delays.

Dominic Cummings today reignited his war with Boris Johnson as he blasted the Prime Minister's 12billion health and social care tax raid
London transport staff have been warned that anti-vax 'propaganda' posters have been found with razor blades which could injure anyone trying to remove them, a union has revealed.

In a health bulletin issued to staff by Transport for London, the network states that there have been 'a number of reports' of incidents where blades have been found on the back of the posters.

While TfL say none have been found on their network, it references at least one incident where a person was injured while trying to remove a poster which read: 'Masks don't work. Masks - a visual prop to drive fear and prolong the pandemic.'

The Rail, Maritime and Transport (RMT) union said the posters had been put up on rail and Tube stations in London.

The union called for action against those responsible for the posters and revealed that TfL staff had been warned to be cautious before they attempt to remove any posters spreading misinformation.

Transport for London have warned their staff about what they call 'propaganda posters' that have razor blades attached to the back in an attempt to injure anyone who removes them

Pictured: Anti-vaccination protesters demonstrate outside parliament in London, yesterday

The TfL Safety, Health and Environment bulletin, issued last week, said 'propaganda posters' that questioned the existence of Covid-19 and spread untruths about vaccinations, had been placed in locations such as doors, lamp-posts and walls.

Staff have been advised to check for sharps before removing any unauthorised posters and to seek immediate medical advice if they are injured.

The bulletin included two images, one of a poster and another showing its reverse which had a razor blade stuck to it and was spattered with blood.

It is being held by someone carrying a bloodied tissue.

It is understood the pictures are of a 22-year-old woman in Cardiff who suffered a 'deep cut' to her hand after removing one of the posters earlier this year with reports of similar incidents in other parts of the country.

A copy of the bulletin issued to TfL staff

Similar warnings have been issued about posters being put up near vaccination centres with reports suggesting some contained razor blades.

General secretary Mick Lynch said: 'Any anti-vax conspiracy theorist resorting to this disgusting practice of lacing their propaganda with razor blades needs to know that they will face criminal prosecution and the highest possible sentences.

'As far as RMT is concerned they should be locked up for a long time. We would expect the police and the courts to take the hardest possible line.'

Transport for London (TfL) said it was not aware of any incidents of this nature involving razor blades taking place on its network.

A TfL spokesperson said: 'We act urgently to remove unauthorised materials from our network, such as posters, including those relating to the pandemic.

'The safety of our customers and colleagues is paramount and we have issued guidance to our staff on how to remove them safely after reports of instances outside of our network of razor blades being attached to the back of such materials.

'None have been detected on our network and there have been very few instances of unauthorised adverts and materials relating to the pandemic.'
This clever dog has found a novel way to fetch her ball from a swimming pool without getting soaked.

Footage shows Abby, a black Labrador from Manasquan, New Jersey, steering a bodyboard in the pool in her backyard to rescue her toys from the water.

The clever dog, who was adopted from Jersey Shore Animal Shelter, wiggles around on the board to make it move across the water towards the ball.

Abby, a black Labrador from Manasquan, New Jersey, has developed the ability to steer a bodyboard in the pool in her backyard to rescue her toys from the water

The clever dog wiggles around on the board to fetch her toys before making her way to the edge of the pool and hopping out

In the sweet clip, Abby, who is believed to be 12 years old, plucks the balls out of the water and shows off her surfing skills as she makes her way to the edge on the board.

She hops out of the pool and places the ball beside her owner, hoping for it to be thrown into the water once again.

Owner Elizabeth Keenan said Abby had suffered 'severe abuse and neglect' at the beginning of her life.

She said: 'She was only fed non-food objects; cigarettes, foam dirty paper plates. When she was brought to a kill shelter she was malnutritioned, shut down and fearful of humans. However, she remained very sweet.

'My family adopted her days before she was set to be euthanized.'

When the family brought Abby home she showed signs of depression and would cower in fear - yelping when they tried to pet her.

Abby's owner Elizabeth Keenan shares clips of the clever dog's tricks on social media, much to the delight of her followers

The vets explained to the family that her reaction was due to her anticipating pain.

Elizabeth began teaching the pooch how to be a dog again through activities involving a ball.

'I needed to work on building her confidence,' she said. 'Abby is not food motivated. But she loves a ball.

'I began slowly introducing her to the pool by gently placing her on a bodyboard using the ball as a reward.

Abby now spends her days playing fetch in the pool after she was rescued from Jersey Shore Animal Shelter after suffering 'severe abuse' at the beginning of her life

'She learned that the pool was a fun activity. Abby learned how to manipulate the board by shifting her weight to get the board to move in order to retrieve her ball. Abby has been bodyboarding since.

'Since we've adopted Abby, my father was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

'Abby has been his best friend, providing him with comfort, lots of laughs and tons of love.

'Abby sleeps with him every night and rarely leaves his side unless she's bodyboarding.'

Elizabeth has been sharing clips of the clever dog's tricks on social media, where she has built up an enthusiastic following.
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Prince Andrew and The Queen held a summit in Balmoral's most secluded boltholes after he bolted back to the Scottish estate days before a civil case brought against him by one of Jeffrey Epstein's victims reaches court.

The Queen's son was seen arriving at her private 50,000-acre grounds in the Scottish Highlands with his ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York, ahead of Monday's hearing in New York.

Andrew is convinced he will be able to 'brush off' the allegations and is said to be 'bullish' about his prospects of returning to public life - despite many believing the idea is impossible.

He and his ex-wife made the 500-mile journey by car for the second time this summer. They last visited the Queen on Royal Deeside just a month ago.

Shortly after arriving yesterday, Andrew joined his mother for lunch at a secluded cabin in a forest around six miles from the castle, just on the fringes of the sprawling estate. The wooden building is the most remote shelter on the land, as far away from the main buildings as possible.

It was the Queen Mother's favourite lodge and can only be reached by one road driving through dense forest.

The spot is also where in 2009 Prince William surprised Kate Middleton with a romantic candlelight dinner.

This time it was the Queen and her son who spent around an hour-and-a-half together at the fishing lodge on the banks of the River Dee, before she left.

Andrew reportedly darted out from the rear of the property to avoid being spotted and headed into the forest, where he was picked up by his Metropolitan Police royal protection officers.

Although sources close to the beleaguered Duke of York said the trip to Balmoral was a long-planned holiday, it has also been suggested that may be trying to avoid representatives for his accuser's lawyers, who have been trying to serve papers on him at Royal Lodge, his Windsor mansion. Security guards have stopped 'multiple' attempts in recent weeks.

It comes as a Royal insider told the Mirror he was confident of 'brushing off' the allegations.

The source insisted: 'It is clear he (Andrew) has a clear and burning desire to return to work as soon as possible.

Andrew joined his mother for lunch at a secluded cabin in a forest around six miles from the castle for the midday summit

Prince Andrew is pictured with Sarah Ferguson in the back seat of the Range Rover as they left Windsor

The Queen during an inspection at the gates at Balmoral as she takes up summer residence at the Scottish castle on August 9

The wooden fishing lodge, marked in red, is the most secluded structure on the whole of the 50,000-acre Balmoral Estate

Cabin where Queen and Andrew held 'summit' The wooden lodge where the two Royals met is on the fringes of the Balmoral Estate. It is the most remote structure on the grounds and is acres away from any other buildings. It neighbours the The Craigendarroch estate and is also near to the village of Ballater. But its location means there is no chance of any discussions being accidentally overheard. And just metres away is the River Dee, with its rushing waters affording extra noise and a privacy barrier for the guests. The secluded spot was where Prince William surprised Kate Middleton with a romantic candlelight dinner in 2009. Advertisement

'That may look entirely impossible but if anything he's become emboldened in recent weeks and remains utterly convinced he will not only be exonerated but will certainly forge a way back to public life.

'Certainly he has given the incredibly bullish impression that this will all blow over within a short while, rather than become a protracted issue.'

Andrew is being sued in America by Virginia Roberts - now married and known as Virginia Guiffre - who accuses him of rape and sexual abuse when she was a child who 'he knew was a sex-trafficking victim'.

She has repeatedly accused the royal of having sex with her when she was aged 17 in London, the US and the British Virgin Islands.

US legal experts say that under the Geneva Convention, Andrew or his legal team - if he nominated them - must be served with the papers in person.

Under the New York Civil Practice Law and Rules (CPLR), papers must be served on all defendants within 120 days after a civil complaint is filed at court.

Otherwise the action can be dismissed unless the plaintiff can 'show good cause for the delay'.

This means Miss Roberts' lawyers will have until December 8 to serve the papers on Andrew.

On Monday a judge is due to hear for the first time details of the civil suit she is bringing against the ninth in line to the throne.

It will be aired via a telephone conference in Manhattan, New York.

Virginia Roberts, now Virginia Giuffre, was photographed with Prince Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell in London in 2001

Prince Andrew (left) arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson in the back of a Range Rover

Timeline of another dramatic month in the Prince Andrew case August 9 : Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17

: Virginia Giuffre files a civil case in New York claiming Prince Andrew sexually abused her aged 17 August 10 : Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day

: Andrew arrives at Balmoral with his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, and is joined by Eugenie the next day August 10 : US lawyers were allegedly trying to hold him up on his horse to serve him papers before he left.

August 12: Dame Cressida Dick says she has told Met Police detectives to review the claims against Andrew

August 13: Ms Giuffre's lawyer says Andrew will be served papers in person under the Hague Convention

August 14: Epstein's telecoms specialist says he will swear on oath that he saw Andrew groping Ms Giuffre

August 15: Andrew's friends say he is 'cheerful and relaxed' over the case in and will remain silent

August 16: A source close to the US probe into Jeffrey Epstein says they view Andrew as a 'person of interest'

September 7 : Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland

: Andrew leaves Royal Lodge in Windsor and travels nearly 500 miles to Balmoral in Scotland September 13 : First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York

: First telephone conference in the case is scheduled at Manhattan Federal Court in New York December 8 : Deadline for Andrew to be served with court papers in person under the Hague Convention Advertisement

There is no requirement for Andrew or his legal team to be on the line, and sources indicated yesterday that there was no intention for them to take part in any official capacity.

But legal experts have also warned that the prince could harm any future defence if he continues to try to avoid the action.

If all attempts at serving the papers on him failed, a judge could decide to go ahead with the case anyway if persuaded that all reasonable efforts had been exhausted.

If Andrew, 61, refuses to accept the civil summons, which was issued by a New York court clerk nearly four weeks ago, he risks facing a 'judgment by default'.

Mark Bederow, a top New York attorney, said: 'If somebody is evading service and the plaintiff can demonstrate they have attempted to serve them they can use alternative methods.'

He said a judge would have the power to approve sending the papers to the duke's lawyers via email.

But he added: 'This is a mess for him. For potential jurors - it's not a good look. I don't know what strategic or tactical edge they think they're getting here.

'It's a terrible look into something where in theory you'd want to rely on your credibility as a royal.'

The duke's spokesman has repeatedly declined to comment.

One possible response to the lawsuit would be for his lawyers to seek to have the case struck out, by arguing there was insufficient evidence to justify any realistic prospect of success.

Andrew could take the decision to refuse to 'submit to the jurisdiction of the US court', said Richard Marshall, of the law firm Penningtons Manches Cooper.

It would make it harder for any judgment against him to be enforced, but the damage to his reputation would be significant.

Prince Charles and Camilla at Ballater Community and Heritage Hub in Aberdeenshire on August 31, near the Balmoral estate

US business and marketing expert Allyson Stewart-Allen said: 'If Prince Andrew thinks by saying nothing it'll go away, that is a strategy that may work in the UK - it is not a strategy to deploy in the United States.'

The prince also faces increasing pressure to speak to the FBI, who are investigating Epstein's crimes.

According to sources Andrew's former wife. Sarah, who divorced him in 1996 but remains close and still lives at Royal Lodge, has been a 'pillar of strength' for him.

It is not clear how long the two will remain in Scotland with the Queen, who is normally in residence until early October.

Andrew has nothing official to rush back to as has been forced to step back from royal duties due to the scandal over his friendship with Epstein.

But he will no doubt want to return to spend time with his first grandchild, August, Princess Eugenie's little boy. His eldest daughter, Princess Beatrice, is also expecting her first child.
A pair of Russian cosmonauts conducted a spacewalk Thursday after a smoke alarm went off in their part of the International Space Station (ISS).

Cosmonauts Oleg Novitskiy and Pyotr Dubrov ventured outside the ISS at 10:51am ET for seven hours to prepare the new Nauka Multipurpose Laboratory Module for operations.

The duo connected ethernet cables and installed handrails on Nauka, which docked with the orbiting laboratory on July 29.

The alarm went off in the Zvezda module, which was added to the ISS in 2000. It sounded at 4:55am Moscow Time (9:55pmET on Wednesday).

'A smoke detector was triggered in the Zvezda service module of the Russian segment of the International Space Station during automatic battery charging, and an alarm went off,' Roscosmos said in a statement.

The incident, which NASA declared a 'space emergency,' is the latest in a string of problems to spur safety concerns over conditions on the Russian segment.

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A pair of Russian cosmonauts conducted a spacewalk Thursday after a smoke alarm went off in their part of the International Space Station (ISS)

French astronaut Thomas Pesquet said 'the smell of burning plastic or electronic equipment' wafted to the US segment of the station, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported, citing a NASA broadcast.

The Russian crew turned on a filter and after the air was cleaned up the astronauts went back to sleep, Roscosmos said.

The space agency said that a planned spacewalk would go ahead as scheduled.

'All systems are operating normally,' Roscosmos said following the smoke alarm.

Cosmonauts Oleg Novitskiy and Pyotr Dubrov ventured outside the ISS at 10:51am ET for more than seven hours to prepare the new Nauka Multipurpose Laboratory Module for operations

A smoke alarm sounded Thursday in Russia's Zvezda segment of the International Space Station (ISS) and astronauts smelled 'burning' on board, Russia's space agency and NASA said. Pictured: A view of the ISS seen in 2018 (file photo)

Novitsky and Dubrov carried out the seven-hour long mission to integrate Nauka (pictured) with the ISS by connecting power and ethernet cables, among other tasks. Nauka experienced its own issues when it first docked with the ISS - the 22-ton module's jet thrusters misfired hours after docking with the space station

Novitsky and Dubrov carried out the seven-hour long mission to integrate Nauka with the ISS by connecting power and ethernet cables, among other tasks.

Nauka experienced its own issues when it first docked with the ISS - the 22-ton module's jet thrusters misfired hours after docking with the space station.

NASA said the incident caused the ISS to move out of attitude  its orientation in relation to its direction of travel  by 45 degrees, or one-eighth of a complete circle.

However, the flight director who was in charge at the time has since revealed this was 'a little incorrectly reported' and the actual figure was closer to 540 degrees.

This means the ISS performed 1.5 backflips when it was sent spinning and required a 180-degree forward flip to regain its original position.

The Nauka mishap is the recent error, as the Russian segment of the ISS has experienced several problems recently and a space official warned last month that out of date software could lead to 'irreparable failures'.

Russia has also threatened to leave the ISS project and to build its own space station unless the United States doesn't lift its sanctions imposed on the country.

Pictured: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Aki Hoshide (L) and Russian cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko, both Expedition 33 flight engineers, work in the Zvezda Service Module of the International Space Station September 25, 2012 (file photo)

The Zvezda service module, part of the Russian segment, has experienced several air leaks, including earlier this year and in 2019.

Citing concerns stemming from ageing hardware, Russia has previously indicated that it plans to leave the ISS after 2025 and launch its own orbital station.

In July, the entire ISS tilted out of orbit after the thrusters of the Nauka module reignited several hours after docking.

And in August, Russian cosmonauts said they discovered new cracks in a section of the ISS that they fear could worsen over time.

The superficial 'fissures' were found in the Zarya module, the first part of the ISS to be launched in 1998 by Russia.

The country's space officials have warned that the latest incident aboard the station, following the discovery of other cracks last year, could become more widespread over the next few years.

NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei, Roscosmos cosmonauts Oleg Novitsky and Pyotr Dubrov (L-R) of the ISS Expedition 65 prime crew. Novitsky and Dubrov are currently on board the ISS

'Superficial fissures have been found in some places on the Zarya module,' Vladimir Solovyov, chief engineer of rocket and space corporation Energia, told RIA news agency at the time.

'This is bad and suggests that the fissures will begin to spread over time.'

He did not say if the cracks had caused any air to leak.

Last year, ISS crew members hunted for an air leak for several weeks, tracing it to the main work area inside the Zvezda Russian module.

NASA stressed that the leak posed no immediate danger to the crew and only caused a slight deviation to the ongoing work schedule.

August 2018 saw astronauts rush to fix a hole (pictured) which had appeared in the outer wall of the Soyuz capsule on the orbiting laboratory. Its origins were, and still are, a mystery despite rife speculation

THE $100 BILLION ISS SITS 250 MILES ABOVE THE EARTH The International Space Station (ISS) is a $100 billion (80 billion) science and engineering laboratory that orbits 250 miles (400 km) above Earth. It has been permanently staffed by rotating crews of astronauts and cosmonauts since November 2000. Research conducted aboard the ISS often requires one or more of the unusual conditions present in low Earth orbit, such as low-gravity or oxygen. ISS studies have investigated human research, space medicine, life sciences, physical sciences, astronomy and meteorology. The US space agency, Nasa, spends about $3 billion (2.4 billion) a year on the space station program, a level of funding that is endorsed by the Trump administration and Congress. A U.S. House of Representatives committee that oversees Nasa has begun looking at whether to extend the program beyond 2024. Alternatively the money could be used to speed up planned human space initiatives to the moon and Mars. Advertisement

Solovyov has said previously that much of the International Space Station's equipment is starting to age and has warned there could be an 'avalanche' of broken equipment after 2025.

This is also the year that Russia plans to leave the ISS project, possibly to launch its own orbital station.

In April, Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov told the Russia 1 TV channel that Moscow intended to warn ISS partners about the withdrawal.

He noted that the station's service life has long expired, and its condition 'leaves much to be desired'.

It is not known whether Russia will decided to completely abandon all work on the ISS.

It comes after NASA hit back at Russian claims earlier this month that a US astronaut drilled a hole in the ISS in 2018 to force an early return to Earth that she 'suffered a psychological crisis'.

According to a report in TASS, the Russian state news agency, Roscosmos insiders claimed there were multiple holes drilled by someone unfamiliar with the module design and without proper support to ensure accurate drilling in low gravity.

They claim NASA astronaut Serena Aunon-Chancellor made the hole after a blood clot developed in her jugular vein that she had to treat herself, leading to an 'acute psychological crisis'.

NASA would not comment on the matters but disputed the claim, describing the astronaut as extremely well respected.

August 2018 saw astronauts rush to fix a hole which had appeared in the outer wall of the Soyuz capsule on the orbiting laboratory.

Its origins were, and still are, a mystery, despite rife speculation and accusations from all sides.

It is thought the latest report may be Roscosmos deflecting accusations from NASA over the arrival of the Russian Science module sending the ISS in a spin in July.
She is known for her unflappable demeanour, but Jacinda Ardern could not contain her amusement while being questioned about a brazen sexual escapade at Auckland hospital.

The New Zealand prime minister and Director General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield were giving their daily Covid press conference on Thursday when they were asked to weigh in on a potential virus safety breach.

A reporter asked the duo whether an allegation involving a patient and visitor having 'sexual relations' in a Auckland hospital ward was considered a 'high-risk activity, in the current climate'.

As the journalist read out the question, Ms Ardern's face flicked through a range of expressions - from disturbed, to intrigued, to amused.

Jacinda Ardern (pictured) has amused fans after breaking from her typically unflappable demeanour during Thursday's Covid press conference when asked about a sexual escapade in Auckland Hospital

'I think it is a high-risk activity, potentially,' Dr Bloomfield quipped with a smile, 'however I dont know any of the details about that interaction.'

Ms Ardern added: 'I would say, generally, regardless of the Covid status, that kind of thing shouldnt generally be part of visiting hours, I would have thought.'

Her unfiltered response delighted fans, who flocked online to praise the down-to-earth leader.

'Why isn't Jacinda Ardern our prime minister?' an Australian man tweeted.

'I can't even begin to imagine what weird and uncomfortable response Scott Morrison would have given to this question.'

'Omg - how did they keep it together?' another added.

'Jacinda Arden.... what a boss haha!' someone else said.

'The looks on their faces are priceless,' a fourth wrote.

A reporter asked Ms Ardern and Director General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield about an alleged sexual encounter between a patient and visitor inside Auckland Hospital (pictured)

The alleged tryst was reported by a patient who lodged a formal complaint after allegedly witnessing the pair have sex inside his ward.

Auckland District Health Board has since come under fire for allowing hundreds of visitors into hospital each day despite the city being under a strict Covid lockdown.

It is not the first time New Zealanders have been left in stitches by the antics of politicians during Covid press conferences.

Last month, New Zealand's Covid-19 response minister Chris Hipkins unintentionally offered the Kiwis some comic relief as he encouraged citizens to socially distance when they go outside and 'spread their legs'.

'It is a challenge for people in high density areas to get outside and spread their legs when they are surrounded by other people' the minister said, before declaring he would go and 'stretch his legs' and that the media 'would all have fun with him later'.

The hashtag #spreadyourlegs was quickly embraced by Kiwis who lit up social media with various memes and posts at the minister's expense.

Meanwhile, New Zealand's Covid outbreak lessened again on Thursday with 13 new cases, down from 15 on Wednesday and 21 on Tuesday.

All of the recent cases have been found in Auckland.

Ms Ardern described the case numbers as 'solid progress' as New Zealand attempts to eliminate its Delta outbreak.

In the three weeks since Covid returned to the community on August 17, 868 Kiwis have caught the virus.
Chris Whitty and Boris Johnson today criticised Nicki Minaj for spreading an 'untrue' and 'ridiculous' myth that coronavirus vaccines can cause impotence - before she hit back on social media just minutes later. The Prime Minister said he would rather listen to NHS England's top GP Nikki Kanani about the jab as he and the Chief Medical Officer both condemned the remarks by the star, who has not yet been vaccinated. Minaj had been mocked after telling her 22million Twitter followers last night that her cousin will not get the vaccine because his friend allegedly became impotent after being jabbed and his fiance cancelled their wedding. The 38-year-old tweeted yesterday: 'My cousin in Trinidad won't get the vaccine cuz his friend got it & became impotent. His testicles became swollen. His friend was weeks away from getting married, now the girl called off the wedding. So just pray on it & make sure you're comfortable with ur decision, not bullied.' Mr Whitty and Mr Johnson both criticised Minaj after being asked about what she said by a reporter during their press conference from Downing Street this afternoon. Minaj then took to Twitter again after watching a video of the two men speaking, saying: 'I love him even tho I guess this was a diss? The accent ugh! Yassss boo!!!' Moment later she recorded an audio message for Mr Johnson in a comedic British accent, tweeting: 'Send this to the Prime Minister and let him know they lied on me. I forgive him. No one else. Only him.' She said: 'Yes, hello Prime Minister, Boris, it's Nicki Minaj - I was just calling to tell you that you were so amazing on the news this morning. And I'm actually British. I was born there. I went to university there. I went to Oxford. I went to school with Margaret Thatcher. And she told me so many nice things about you. I'd love to send you my portfolio of my work, since you don't know much about me, I'm a big, big star in the United States.'
A recently elected public servant has claimed claiming transgender women are 'biological men' who should not be able to use women's prisons or toilets over security fears.

Conservative Philip Wilkinson made the comments just weeks after he was made Swindon and Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner.

Mr Wilkinson had particularly strong comments for LGBQT charity Stonewall as he slammed the group's 'exclusive, divisive and potentially dangerous' ideology.

He had announced on Facebook his support for Lisa Townsend, the newly elected Conservative police commissioner for Surrey, after she too accused Stonewall of being a 'dangerous' lobby group that 'threatens the safety of our women and girls'.

Mr Wilkinson wrote: 'Like her, I do not believe that the vast majority of women in this country wish to allow biological men into their private enclosed spaces such as women's prisons and female toilets.

'That is a matter of public security and not inclusiveness.

'I will not therefore support any organisation that promotes such a narrow and exclusive agenda and if necessary, that includes Stonewall.'

Swindon and Wiltshire's Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson (pictured) sparked fury after claiming transgender women are 'biological men' who should not be able to use women's prisons or toilets over security fears

Mr Wilkinson released his Facebook post three days after after being 'asked to make a statement about trans issues'.

He went on to say: 'Now this really should be exciting. Good job I'm used to being shot at! Watch this space.'

He also replied to one comment clarifying his position on transgender rights, stating: 'If I said I was pro trans I would be shot at. If I said I was anti trans I would be shot at. On some issues you cannot win.'

Army Colonel Wilkinson served with the Royal Artillery, Commando, Parachute Brigades and Special Forces for more than three decades.

His military tours included 11 years of counter-insurgency experience in the Middle East and Northern Ireland.

The police force he now presides over, Wiltshire Police, had been a member of Stonewall's diversity champions scheme and paid an annual fee of 2,500 for the last four years.

Unlike others, including bordering Avon and Somerset Police, the force has not invested in further training programmes for its employees.

However, now the force has confirmed that it is no longer a member of Stonewall's Diversity Champions and instead signed up to the 'Inclusive Companies Scheme.'

Mr Wilkinson posted his lengthy statement on his Facebook page at 6.38am on Wednesday, indicating that his words were his own personal beliefs.

Mr Wilkinson wrote: 'As a proud citizen of the UK, let alone as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, I will therefore not support any organisation that promotes a narrow ideology that is exclusive, divisive and potentially dangerous'

In a further excerpt from it, he wrote: 'I believe that we should treat every other human being with respect and courtesy irrespective of their sex, gender or sexual orientation.

'I believe passionately in inclusiveness and diversity and Martin Luther King's ethos that we should treat every individual by what is within and not the colour of their skin.

'As a proud citizen of the UK, let alone as the Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire, I will therefore not support any organisation that promotes a narrow ideology that is exclusive, divisive and potentially dangerous.

'I therefore agree entirely with the sentiments expressed by Lisa Townsend, the new Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey.'

Mr Wilkinson released his Facebook post three days after 'testing the water' with a post about being 'asked to make a statement about trans issues'

Last month, Ms Townsend launched an unprecedented attack on the Stonewall lobby group, accusing it of promoting a dangerous transgender ideology that puts women at risk.

The new PCC for Surrey also demanded the county's police force drop the LGBQT charity as an official partner.

Trans councillor Helen Belcher, 57, who represents Corsham on Wiltshire Council, slammed Mr Wilkinson's statement and said it created 'real exclusion and division'.

She said: 'With his statement, the Commissioner has demonstrated that he doesn't know the law as it currently stands.

'Trans women have been legally included in women-only spaces for decades. This has been upheld by recent court decisions.

'The real exclusion and division is being created by individuals, such as the Commissioner, who, by their public statements, seem to want women's rights reversed to the position in the 1950s, where how you look is more important than how you behave.

'The police should be there to protect everyone, irrespective of sex, sexuality or gender identity.'

Last month, Lisa Townsend (pictured) launched an unprecedented attack on the Stonewall lobby group, accusing it of promoting a dangerous transgender ideology that puts women at risk

Explaining Wiltshire Police's decision to leave Stonewall, a force spokesman said: 'Wiltshire Police is committed to increasing diversity within the force so that we can best reflect the communities we serve.

'We are determined to cultivate an inclusive environment which champions the rights of every single officer, staff member and volunteer.

'Following research undertaken by our equality, diversity and inclusion team earlier this year, we took the decision not to renew our membership with Stonewall and, like some other police forces, we are members of the Inclusive Companies scheme and are working towards our aspiration of becoming part of the Inclusive Companies Top 50 Employers Index.'

A Stonewall spokesman said: 'At Stonewall, we're working towards a world in which all lesbian, gay, bi, trans and queer people are able to thrive as themselves.

'Trans people have always been able to use facilities which match their gender, and it is inappropriate to assume that trans people's presence in these spaces may pose a risk to others simply because they are trans.

'We're proud of our work towards trans equality, as well as our work to make a better world for all LGBTQ+ people.'
Dramatic footage shows the moment a quick-thinking police officer commandeered a cyclist's bike to chase down and arrest a suspected wife beater in a park.

PC Tom Harris had been on domestic call-out when he spotted the wanted man a quarter of a mile away at Oaklands Recreational Ground, in Yardley, Birmingham.

Video from the officer's body-worn camera shows him giving chase before asking a cyclist if he could borrow his mountain bike.

The friendly rider agrees and asks 'Are you after that bloke?' to which PC Harris replies: 'Yeah, that bloke there. Cheers mate.'

He then frantically pedals across grassland to quickly catch up with the 23-year-old man and detain him in the park on August 31.

PC Tom Harris had been on domestic call-out when he spotted the wanted man a quarter of a mile away at Oaklands Recreational Ground, in Yardley, Birmingham

Video from the officer's body-worn camera shows him giving chase before asking a cyclist if he could borrow his mountain bike

He tells him: 'Stop! Hands behind your back now' as the suspect, who is wearing a sling, replies 'watch my arm, man' as he is cuffed.

The officer calls a colleague to ask 'Can you meet me where you dropped me off, I borrowed a member of the public's bike and now I need to drop it off..'

PC Harris then spots two friendly PCSOs who agree to take the bike back to its rightful owner.

The suspect was arrested on suspicion of breaching his bail terms by trying to force his way into a property that he is banned from visiting.

He is accused of defying his conditions by turning up at the woman's home in Birmingham and hammering on the door.

The friendly rider agrees and asks 'Are you after that bloke?' to which PC Harris replies: 'Yeah, that bloke there. Cheers mate.

He then frantically pedals across grassland to quickly catch up with the 23-year-old man and detain him in the park on August 31

He spent a night in the cells before appearing in court the next day where his bail was revoked and he was remanded into prison

He spent a night in the cells before appearing in court the next day where his bail was revoked and he was remanded into prison.

PC Harris, of West Midlands Police, said: 'We were on the phone to the woman as we headed to her address and she told us the man had left and gave us his description.

'I spotted a man matching the description in Oaklands Recreational Ground but he was quite some distance away.

'I saw the cyclist and thought it would be a hell of a lot easier to pedal rather than run with all my kit on.

'A big shout to that man for helping me and for the two PCSOs who were nearby and returned the bike while I arrested the suspect.'

The man is due to appear in court later this year to face charges of domestic assault and criminal damage.

After the footage was uploaded online by the force, many social media users praised the officer's 'old school' style of policing.

One wrote: 'Doesn't get more old school than that. Fair play that copper' while another added: 'Now that is thinking on your feet. Great job.'
A Missouri junior high school teacher who hung a pride flag in his classroom says he submitted his resignation after a parent accused him of teaching their child to be gay.

John M. Wallis, who taught speech and drama at Neosho High School, said his troubles began at the beginning of the curricular year when he hung a pride flag next to a sign that said, In this classroom, EVERYONE is welcome.

This was an attempt to make my classroom more open and welcoming for all of my students, and nothing was ever taught about the flag because it stood there as a reflection of my classroom as a safe space for my LGBTQIA+ students, the 22-year-old tweeted September 5.

His effort at inclusiveness backfired when a parent called to complain that Wallis was going to teach their child to be gay, he said, adding he was instructed to remove the flag and signs.

In fact, the use of the pride flag in my classroom was compared to hanging the confederate flag in my classroom.

John M. Wallis, 22, said he quit his teaching job after parents complained about his pride flag

The pride flag (pictured in a file photo) is a symbol of acceptance of all sexual proclivities

After removing the rainbow-striped flag  a universal symbol of acceptance of all sexual preferences  students began inquiring why it was removed, Wallis said in a lengthy Twitter thread.

I answered truthfully while expressing that, if students had a problem with who I was, there were other open classes, he said. This led to three or more calls from parents accusing me of pushing my agenda in the classroom.

Wallis said he was then asked to sign a letter, agreeing he would not discuss sexuality in the classroom, which prompted his resignation.

There is never a problem when a heterosexual teacher displays pictures of themselves and their spouses in a classroom, but I have a flag and all hell breaks loose, he said.

My administrators chose to believe the bigotry of parents over their building's teacher. To say I am devastated is an understatement.

Wallis worked as a speech and drama teacher at Neosho Junior High School for just two weeks

Neosho School District Superintendent old Mailonline.com that he was prohibited from discussing the details surrounding the teachers departure in great detail.

As per all personnel matters, there is a limited amount of information that is allowed to be shared by the school district, he said.

Wallis was hired by the district August 13 and resigned September 1, Cummins said in the statement.

Twitter users were mixed on the fallout, with some saying Wallis ought have left discussions on sexuality out of the classroom.

You can be yourselves, your sexuality doesnt belong in taxpayer classrooms, tweeted @NDND033099.

How do you not understand this?

Numerous people reacted to Wallis' story on Twitter, both praising and criticizing his actions

Added Twitter user @american010101: Teachers have a job to teach the standard curriculum. Its really as simple as that. Again, if a Trump flag was displayed, satanic sign, or even a swastika, people would have the same reactions. Stick to science, math, etc. Outside the classroom you can do whatever u want.

Other Twitter users, such as @MrsBurgess2, said they sympathized with the outgoing teacher.

As someone who has taught in that part of the state, this lack of humanity saddens but does not surprise me, MrsBurgess2 tweeted. Every child deserves a safe space, just as every teacher deserves to live authentically without having to hide their identity. We need MORE teachers like you.
A sword which is believed to have been used by British naval hero Lord Horatio Nelson has emerged for sale for 50,000.

Nelson gave the blade to his nephew William Maurice Suckling - who served under him on HMS Agamemnon - before his death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

An account of the sword's history written by the British hero's great-nephew Horatio, the third Earl Nelson, included the remarkable claim that the sword also once belonged to Bonnie Prince Charlie, who laid claim to the British throne in the 18th century.

He stated that his famous ancestor was given the sword in 1796 by Cardinal Henry York - Bonnie Prince Charlie's brother - in gratitude for his help when on the run from Napoleon in Italy.

Based on the account, the antiques dealer who is selling the weapon believes that Admiral Nelson may have used it in battles against the French during the Napoleonic Wars.

British naval hero Lord Horatio Nelson's fighting sword has emerged for sale for 50,000. Admiral Nelson is believed to have used the historic weapon in battles against the French during the Napoleonic Wars. Above: Antiques dealer Charles Wallrock, of Wick Antiques, Lymington, Hampshire, with Admiral Lord Nelson's fighting sword

According to the claim about Bonnie Prince Charlie - whose real name was Charles Stewart - his brother Cardinal York had told Nelson it had been his sibling's life-long blade.

The sword remained in the Suckling family for two centuries before it was acquired by a private collector in 2003.

It was bought by maritime antiques dealer Charles Wallrock last year, who uncovered the third Earl Nelson's account while researching it.

The account states this sword was 'given by the then Captain Nelson of the Agamemnon to William Maurice Suckling, R.N. 1796, when he was returning home on the paying off of the Agamemnon'.

Earl Nelson described it as 'a most suitable wedding present for a Suckling as Wooton was full of Stuart relics'.

Mr Wallrock said he could not corroborate the Bonnie Prince Charlie claim, but he is certain this was Nelson's sword.

Nelson gave the blade to his nephew William Maurice Suckling - who served under him on HMS Agamemnon - before his death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805

An account of the sword's history written by the British hero's great-nephew Horatio, the third Earl Nelson, included the remarkable claim that the sword also once belonged to Bonnie Prince Charlie, who laid claim to the British throne in the 18th century. Above: A close-up image shows the silver detailing on its scabbard

He is displaying it at the Chelsea Antiques Fair in London and selling it through the antique online portal 2Covet.

Mr Wallrock, of Wick Antiques, Lymington, Hampshire, said: 'There is no doubt that this was Nelson's sword - he may well have used it in action against the French.

'It remained in the Suckling family until 2003 when it was sold to a collector as 'Nelson's sword', and if you study the description in the book and this sword it is indisputably it.

'The curved steel blade is just short of 24 inches and dates from the 17th century.

'It is mounted into a later silver hilt, hallmarked 'Nixon', London 1752.

'That the fairly ordinary blade was remounted in silver by Nixon certainly suggests it was deemed important.

The sword remained in the Suckling family for two centuries before it was acquired by a private collector in 2003. Above: Lord Nelson is best remembered for leading Britain in decisive naval victories in the Napoleonic Wars

Bonnie Prince Charlie - according to Jacobite succession - was heir to the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland.

'It retains its leather scabbard and has now been mounted in a display cabinet befitting its importance.

'The third Earl's account was based on a previous history from 1823, but Maurice Suckling had died three years earlier so was never able to state whether there was any truth in it.

'The account states that Bonnie Prince Charlie's brother - Cardinal York - was in Italy on the run from Napoleon.

'Nelson was cruising off the coast in 1796 and decided to help him, even though he was a Catholic.

'The last of the Stuarts was in rags, so Nelson invited him on board, looked after him then set him ashore with money to defray [cover] his expenses.

'When some time later they met again in Genoa, Cardinal York gave him the sword as a thank you for his generosity.

The sword is mounted into a silver hilt, hallmarked 'Nixon', with the date of 1752

Mr Wallrock, of Wick Antiques, Lymington, Hampshire, said: 'There is no doubt that this was Nelson's sword - he may well have used it in action against the French'

'He told him it had belonged to his younger brother. The account - or a version of it - might be true but I have been unable to corroborate it. '

However, an expert today cast doubt on the claim that the weapon was Lord Nelson's fighting sword.

Andrew Baines, deputy executive director of museum operations at The National Museum of the Royal Navy, said: 'It is a very nice sword with a great relevance to the Suckling family.

'The story is that it was presented to Nelson in 1780 and gifted back by him to the Suckling family in 1796, but the problem is that details of this are rather vague.

'It may be possible that the sword never left the family and I suppose it is also possible that it was gifted to Nelson by Maurice Suckling and then returned by him to the family.

'However, I think this is unlikely and this is definitely not Nelson's fighting sword, as it is not consistent with the type he used.

'The account by the 3rd Earl Nelson was written in 1904, a century after Nelson's death, so it should be taken with a great pinch of salt.

'Anybody willing to pay 50,000 for this sword is probably a Nelson romantic,' he added.

Bonnie Prince Charlie - according to Jacobite succession - was heir to the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland.

Also known as the Young Pretender and Young Chevalier, his efforts to take the crown failed with his defeat at Culloden in 1745. He died in Italy in 1788 aged 67.

Cardinal York, who was the last of the Stuarts to claim the crown, died in 1807 aged 82.

The sword will go on display at Chelsea Old Town Hall from September 21-26.
The leader of the DUP has signalled his party will collapse the Stormont Executive within weeks if changes to Brexit's Northern Ireland Protocol are not delivered.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson also announced his party's immediate withdrawal from cross-border political institutions established on the island of Ireland under the Good Friday peace agreement.

The moves are part of an intensification of the DUP's campaign of opposition to post-Brexit arrangements that have created trading barriers between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Sir Jeffrey issued the warning on the future of Stormont in a keynote address in Belfast on the same day as European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic began a two-day visit to Northern Ireland.

Ahead of any move to pull ministers out of the coalition administration, a step that would bring down the powersharing institutions, Sir Jeffrey said his party was first seeking to challenge the legality of checks on GB to NI trade introduced under the protocol and establish whether their implementation requires the approval of the Stormont Executive.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (pictured today) also announced his party's immediate withdrawal from cross-border political institutions established on the island of Ireland under the Good Friday peace agreement

Sir Jeffrey's opposition number, Sinn Fein president Mary-Lou McDonald, is pictured in Londonderry last month

'In the final analysis those who are democratically elected by the people of Northern Ireland lack the power to prevent such checks, if that is the case, if our ministers cannot in the end prevent these checks taking place and if the protocol issues remain then I have to be clear, the position in office of DUP ministers would become untenable,' he said.

'If the choice is ultimately between remaining in office or implementing the protocol in its present form then the only option, the only option for any unionist minister would be to cease to hold such office.'

Sir Jeffrey added: 'Within weeks it will become clear if there is a basis for the Assembly and Executive to continue in this current mandate, and I want that to happen.

'But, equally, we will also need to consider whether there is a need for an Assembly election to refresh our mandate if action is not taken to address and resolve the issues related to the protocol and its impact, its damaging impact on Northern Ireland each and every day.'

Sir Jeffrey (pictured with former party leader Edwin Poots today) issued the warning on the future of Stormont in a keynote address in Belfast on the same day as European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic began a two-day visit to Northern Ireland

The protocol was agreed by the UK and EU as a way to maintain a free-flowing land border on the island of Ireland.

It achieves that by moving many of the checks and processes required on goods to the Irish Sea.

Under the arrangements, Northern Ireland remains in the EU single market for goods and continues to apply EU customs rules.

Unionists in Northern Ireland have been vehemently opposed to its terms which see additional checks on goods arriving to the region from the rest of the UK.

They claim the arrangements have undermined Northern Ireland's place within the UK.

While Sir Jeffrey said the DUP was withdrawing from north/south political bodies he said his party would seek to ensure continued cross-border co-operation on health issues.

'And let me be clear, as part of the proper functioning of all aspects of the political institutions I want the north/south institutions to work,' he said.

'Post Brexit, north/south and east/west relationships are, if anything, more important than ever.

'But they cannot operate in isolation or while strand three (of the Good Friday Agreement), the east/west relationship, has been undermined.

'There can be no dispute that the fabric of strand three has been fundamentally undermined by the protocol.

'In such circumstances unionists cannot be expected to operate strand two as though nothing had changed.'

While Sir Jeffrey said the DUP was withdrawing from north/south political bodies he said his party would seek to ensure continued cross-border co-operation on health issues

The DUP leader said ministers would also seek to use their votes at the Stormont Executive to block the implementation of any additional checks at Northern Ireland ports when ongoing grace periods end.

He said the DUP would also oppose the passage of regulations at Stormont required to reflect any changes to EU law applying in Northern Ireland.

Sir Jeffrey warned that the Government's planned move to legislate for Irish language provisions at Westminster would further undermine devolution.

The UK Government agreed to the Sinn Fein demand in the summer after the republican party threatened not to re-enter the powersharing administration after failing to secure a firm timetable from the DUP on implementing what was a key plank of the 2020 New Decade New Approach deal that restored devolution.

'The proper place for such legislation is the Northern Ireland Assembly where it can receive the proper scrutiny and a balanced approach,' said Sir Jeffrey.

'Such a usurpation of the Assembly's powers, without the consent of the Assembly, would be difficult at any time.

'But undermining the operation of strand one (of the Good Friday Agreement) as well as strand three at the same time would further undermine confidence in devolution and the operation of the Assembly from an already low base.

'The situation is further exacerbated when the New Decade, New Approach Deal is implemented on a one-sided basis and in the absence of the Government delivering on the NDNA commitment to ensure that Northern Ireland remains an integral part of the UK internal market.

'For unionists such a situation is both intolerable and unsustainable.'
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Covid cases rose nine per cent last week as schools reopened with children aged 10 to 19 testing positive nearly six times more than the elderly, official data has revealed.

Figures from Public Health England show cases in children in the age group spiked by 42 per cent in a week from 478.3 per 100,000 to 681.4 in the week ending September 5.

This compared to just 114 cases per 100,000 in the over-80s  down 1.2 per cent from the week before  and 145.8 in 70- to 79-year-olds  which remained flat.

But separate data from a symptom-tracking study that uses a different methodology suggested the overall number of people falling ill with the virus fell during the same week.

King's College London's ZOE Covid Study  which relies on people self-reporting symptoms  estimated 51,876 people suffered with the virus in the week ending September 4, down nine per cent on the previous week (57,158).

Children returned to schools on Wednesday last week in England, meaning the data for both reports only includes half a week of the start of term.

It takes at least a week for cases to start appearing because of how long it takes for the virus to incubate but the figures show symptomatic cases were already highest in people aged 18 and younger.

Overall cases in Scotland increased during the same period, where children were back in classes as early as August 18. Prevalence was also highest in school age children.

Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiologist and lead scientist of the study, said the return to classrooms 'hasn't yet caused a spike' in infections.

Meanwhile separate figures from NHS Test and Trace showed a total of 191,431 people tested positive for Covid in England at least once in the week to September 1, down four per cent on the previous week. The number of people testing positive has been around 200,000 in the six most-recent weeks of data.

Figures from Public Health England show cases in children aged 10 to 19 spiked by 42 per cent in a week from 478.3 per 100,000 to 681.4 in the week ending September 5. This was nearly six times higher than the 114 cases per 100,000 in over-80s  down 1.2 per cent from the week before  and 145.8 in 70- to 79-year-olds  which remained flat

 Slide me  Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England. Graph shows: The percentage change in infections in regions across England in the week ending September 5

But separate data from King's College London scientists suggested 51,876 people suffered with the virus in the week ending September 4, down nine per cent on the previous week (57,158)

Symptomatic cases were highest in people aged 18 and younger, despite children only returning to schools on Wednesday last week in England

Pressure mounts for boosters as Scotland's Covid hospital admissions rise 50% in a week Pressure for a mass British booster vaccine programme continued to mount today as figures showed Scotland's daily Covid hospital admissions rose by 50 per cent in a week. Data from the Government's Covid dashboard showed that on average there were 114 patients being admitted each day to hospitals in Scotland in the week to September 1, compared to 76 the week prior. The number seeking treatment for the virus has risen steadily since schools went back from the summer break in the middle of August, when there were about 40 Covid admissions per day. Daily hospitalisations are now at 60 per cent of the levels seen at the peak of the second wave, but patients are presenting with milder illness and being discharged quicker than earlier phases of the pandemic. There were 883 Covid patients in hospital with the virus yesterday compared to more than 2,000 at the height of the winter wave in January  in a sign the vaccines are working. Eighty-two patients were on mechanical ventilators by the most recent count on Wednesday and the country is recording seven deaths from the virus per day, on average. The growing hospital numbers in Scotland come amid increasing calls for a more broad booster vaccine programme in the UK. Advertisement

The PHE data shows overall the number of positive cases last week rose from 171,798 to 187,059.

Case rates in England are continuing to rise in most age groups, PHE said.

The exceptions are 20 to 29-year-olds, 60 to 69-year-olds and people aged 80 and over.

The highest rate is among 10 to 19-year-olds, with 681.4 cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to September 5, up sharply week-on-week from 478.3.

The second highest rate is among 20 to 29-year-olds, down from 412.1 to 373.2.

The lowest rate is among people aged 80 and over, at 114.0, down slightly from 115.4.

Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England, according to PHE.

North-east England has the highest rate, with 378.6 cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to September 5, up from 320.3.

Yorkshire and the Humber has the second highest rate at 378.4, up from 343.0.

London has the lowest rate at 240.0, up slightly from 237.5.

Dr Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at Public Health England, said: 'Case rates remain high although fairly stable across the country and are currently highest in those aged 10-19 years old.

'We expect to see more cases in this age groups as schools detect cases of COVID-19 acquired during the summer holidays. We continue to closely monitor how the start of the school year is impacting infections and will review recommendations accordingly.

'In recent days many have begun to return to the workplace.

'It's important to keep following the simple steps to help protect yourself and others, get both doses of the vaccine, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and if you have Covid symptoms, please do not go out.

'You should only leave home to get a PCR test, which you should get as soon as possible if you have symptoms.'

The ZOE Covid study data  which relies on self-reporting, meaning it is often ahead of the official curve due to the time it takes to process tests  showed one in 90 people across the UK currently have symptomatic Covid.

There are currently 17,674 new daily symptomatic cases among fully vaccinated people in the UK. Cases in the group had been rising steadily but have now stabilised, with last week's figure being 17,342.

Professor Spector said: 'It's great to see the return to schools and summer festivals haven't yet resulted in a spike in cases as feared.

'However, the picture is worse in Scotland, where rates are still rising and our figures indicate that Scottish hospitals could soon be overwhelmed.

'The Scottish situation makes it clear we can't be complacent about Covid as winter approaches. We are still producing far too many Long Covid cases and hospitalisations unnecessarily.'

Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England, according to the latest weekly surveillance report from Public Health England

The PHE Surveillance Report showed cases across age groups (light blue bar) rose nine per cent last week as schools reopened

The Midlands has the highest number of total new cases in England with 8,070 per day. Graph shows: Estimated active cases in each region

In the fully vaccinated population, it's estimated there are currently 17,674 new daily symptomatic cases in the UK. Cases in this group had been rising steadily but have now stabilised, with last week's figure being 17,342

NHS pushes back against 'unnecessary' compulsory Covid jabs plan NHS workers have pushed back against plans to make Covid jabs compulsory by winter. The Government today launched a six-week consultation into plans to make vaccination a legal requirement to work with NHS patients. Under the plans, around 120,000 frontline NHS staff who are still not vaccinated could be required by law to be jabbed to reduce transmission in hospitals. But unions have hit out at the plans today, arguing mandatory vaccination is unnecessary because of high uptake rates. Figures show 88 per cent of NHS staff are fully vaccinated and around 92 per cent have had a first dose, despite being first offered a jab last December. There are about 1.2million frontline staff in the health service in England. The numbers are slightly lower in London, where there has been more hesitancy about vaccination, with only 86 per cent have had a first jab. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) expressed doubts over whether making jabs compulsory would increase the number of people taking up the offer of a vaccine. And The NHS Confederation  which represents NHS trusts across England  said 'the focus must remain on increasing vaccine confidence' rather than forcing staff to take jabs. A member of the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)  an independent body that advises the Government on vaccine policy  today said making jabs mandatory would feel 'like an admission of failure'. Advertisement

He continued: 'For 521 days, ZOE and King's College London have demanded cold and flu-like symptoms be recognised as common Covid symptoms and communicated widely as in other countries.

'With UK rates the highest in Europe, if the government continues with no restrictions, surely we should at least help people to recognise the symptoms early and know when to stay at home.'

Meanwhile the NHS figures showed some 12.5 per cent of people  one in eight  who were transferred to Test and Trace in England in the week to September 1 were not reached, meaning they were not able to provide details of recent close contacts.

This is down slightly from 12.7 per cent in the previous week.

Anybody in England who tests positive for Covid, either through a rapid (LFD) test or a PCR test processed in a laboratory, is transferred to Test and Trace so their contacts can be identified and alerted.

But both King's College and NHS Tests and Trace use delayed data, with official figures from the Department of Health showing an increase in infections since September 4.

The UK recorded 38,975 new positive tests yesterday  a jump of 9.2 per cent on the 35,693 recorded last Wednesday.

Hospital admissions with the virus also continued to increase at a similar rate, rising 10.8 per cent to 933 on September 4, the latest date data is available for.

It comes amid mounting pressure for a mass British booster vaccine programme as separate figures showed Scotland's daily Covid hospital admissions rose by 50 per cent in a week.

Data from the Government's Covid dashboard showed that on average there were 114 patients being admitted each day to hospitals in Scotland in the week to September 1, compared to 76 the week prior.

The number seeking treatment for the virus has risen steadily since schools went back from the summer break in the middle of August, when there were about 40 Covid admissions per day.

Daily hospitalisations are now at 60 per cent of the levels seen at the peak of the second wave, but patients are presenting with milder illness and being discharged quicker than earlier phases of the pandemic.

There were 883 Covid patients in hospital with the virus yesterday compared to more than 2,000 at the height of the winter wave in January  in a sign the vaccines are working.

Eighty-two patients were on mechanical ventilators by the most recent count on Wednesday and the country is recording seven deaths from the virus per day, on average.

The growing hospital numbers in Scotland come amid increasing calls for a more broad booster vaccine programme in the UK.

At the moment just half a million Britons with severely weakened immune systems are eligible but the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), is meeting today to decide who else should get them.

Professor Adam Finn, an expert in child health and JCVI member, insisted boosters are not needed in large numbers across the country and it's 'not clear' that the UK is seeing waning protection against severe disease.

The JCVI is expected to recommend boosters only for the very elderly, more immunosupressed people and possibly those with severe underlying conditions.

Vaccine Minister Nadhim Zahawi, Health Secretary Sajid Javid and the Prime Minister all saying this week they want boosters to be given out and are preparing for a widespread rollout.
An Irish sheep farmer has shot his partner and adult son in their beds before turning the gun on himself in a suspected 'murder-suicide'.

The bodies of Mossie O'Sullivan, 63, his partner Eileen, 56, and their adult son, Jamie, 24, were discovered near Lixnaw, County Kerry on Tuesday evening after concerns were raised about a door being left open at their property.

A neighbour called to the home around 8.30pm where he discovered the bodies of Eileen and Jamie in their bedrooms with fatal gunshot wounds.

Officers were alerted and in a follow-up search outside the home, police found the body of Mossie O'Sullivan, at the boundary of the rear yard, with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

A firearm, which he legally held, was recovered close to his body.

The bodies of sheep farmer Mossie O'Sullivan, 63, (pictured) his partner Eileen, 56, and their adult son, Jamie, 24, were discovered at home near Lixnaw, County Kerry on Tuesday evening

Police have launched an investigation into what they believe is a double homicide and suicide, though a motive for the killings has not yet been established.

They are not looking for anyone else in connection with the deaths.

Speaking to local newspaper, The Kerryman, neighbour John O'Mahony who found the bodies of Eileen and Jamie said: 'When I went into the house, I found them, both were in their beds. It's a terrible thing for any neighbour to have to witness.'

He added: 'I was only talking to him on Sunday night, you couldn't see anything like this coming.

'The family were the soundest crowd you could meet  we can't believe this is after happening.'

Mossie worked part-time as a sheep farmer and as well as being a 'passionate beekeeper' and had previously worked as a school bus driver.

A neighbour called to the home around 8.30pm, after concerns were raised about a door being left open at their property, where he discovered the bodies of Eileen (pictured) and Jamie in their beds with fatal gunshot wounds

Son Jamie worked with agricultural contractors and recently got a job at the crane company Liebherr in Killarney.

Gardai investigating the shooting have appealed to the local community in Co Kerry for help, saying there are a lot of 'unanswered questions'.

Superintendent Paul Kennedy said gardai were not made aware of any issues with the family.

He described them as a 'decent family' who were not previously known to gardai.

'We have no knowledge of anyone in the days preceding this that would have contacted us directly,' Superintendent Kennedy said.

'We have a lot of unanswered questions. At the moment, we don't have motive.

'We are appealing for people to come forward to help determine what happened.'

He said gardai are keeping an open mind in the investigation about what happened in the lead-up to the shooting.

In a follow-up search, officers found the body of father Mossie O'Sullivan at the boundary of the rear yard, with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Pictured: Son Jamie O'Sullivan

On Wednesday, Supt Kennedy said: 'At approximately 8.30pm yesterday, gardai in Listowel received a call from a member of the public concerned for the residents of a domestic dwelling at Kilfeighney, Lixnaw.

'Local uniform and plain clothes gardai attended the scene.'

The scene was preserved overnight and the Garda Technical Bureau commenced a forensic examination on Wednesday afternoon.

State pathologist Dr Margot Bolster visited the scene earlier on Wednesday.

The bodies of all three people were removed from the scene to University Hospital Kerry, Tralee, where state post-mortem examinations will take place.

Gardai said the result of the post-mortems will determine the course of the investigation, but preliminary findings are that all three died as a result of the gunshot wounds.

'An Garda Siochana is not looking for any other person in relation to this investigation at this time,' Supt. Kennedy said.

Gardai have launched an investigation into what they believe is a double homicide and suicide, though a motive for the killings has not yet been established

'A family liaison officer has been appointed to the extended families of the deceased and gardai will support the families during this personal tragedy for them.

'An Garda Siochana appeals for privacy for the family at this time.

'We are also conscious of the severe impact this incident has on the tight-knit community here in Kerry and we are appealing to this community or any other persons who may have any information in relation to the tragic events to contact gardai at Listowel Garda station on 068 50820, the Garda Confidential Number 1800 666.'

Justice Minister Heather Humphreys tweeted: 'My deepest sympathies to all impacted by the truly awful tragedy in Lixnaw.

'The shock and devastation being felt by the family and the community is unimaginable.

'An Garda Siochana is engaging with the local community and will carry out a full investigation.'

Parish priest of Lixnaw, Father Anthony O'Sullivan, said the local community is 'numb'.

He was called to the scene at the family bungalow shortly before 11pm on Tuesday night, where he administered the last rites and said a number of prayers.

'There is a great sense of numbness and disbelief that this has happened,' Fr O'Sullivan told Newstalk.

'Personally I feel the same way - numb and failing to comprehend or express how I feel about what has happened.'

The bodies of all three people were removed from the scene to University Hospital Kerry, Tralee, on Wednesday (pictured) where state post-mortem examinations will take place

He added: 'I am here nearly two years and met one of them briefly. It's a very caring parish with caring people.'

Kerry TD Michael Healy-Rae said: 'The community is shocked and deeply saddened at the events that unfolded last night in Lixnaw.

'It's a very quiet place and a very close-knit community and everyone is devastated at what happened.

'No-one can comprehend, no-one can understand, and we are deeply upset by what happened.

'Unfortunately tragedies like these are becoming more common.

'In a community where everybody knows everybody, the first reaction is how could this happen and why did this happen?

'I think that now is not the time for those questions. I think now is the time to be supportive of the family and their friends of the bereaved people, and that is our job now to support them in their time of need and distress.

'That is what we will be doing.

'They have lived in the area for a long time and we want to support the bereaved people in whatever way we can.'
Lee Farrell (pictured), 50, is said to have left victims shaken, disgusted and terrified after flashing at them in a string of public places since 2008

A wheelchair-bound man with a 13-year history of exposing himself to girls as young as seven has been spared jail after suggesting his offending could stem from his 'frustration' at being disabled.

Lee Farrell, 50, is said to have left victims shaken, disgusted and terrified after flashing at them in a string of public places since 2008.

His latest victim was a 17-year-old girl who he flashed after she got off a tram in Bury, Greater Manchester, on October 12 last year.

When confronted he reportedly blustered: 'I was just scratching!', but the teenager was said to have been left feeling 'very anxious' and had a panic attack after the incident.

At Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court, Farrell, of Bolton, faced jail after he admitted causing a public nuisance and indecent exposure but was freed with a suspended sentence after a judge told him: 'I'm going to give you a chance.'

It came after he was arrested for exposing himself to a woman while sat in his stationary Renault Laguna in a car park in 2008, before flashing two girls aged seven and 11 in a Morrisons supermarket in 2010 and targeting an eight-year-old girl playing hide and seek with friends in 2012.

Prosecutor Gavin Howie told the court how the latest victim had arrived at Bury Interchange at 7.10pm after getting a tram from Manchester city centre.

He said: 'She saw this defendant in a wheelchair and he was staring at her from around eight feet away.

'She was in the glassed off area of Bury Metro station and she gave him a "dirty look".

Farrell was previously arrested for exposing himself to a woman while sat in his stationary Renault Laguna in a car park in 2008, before flashing two girls aged seven and 11 in a Morrisons supermarket in 2010 and targeting an eight-year-old girl playing hide and seek with friends in 2012

'She doesn't say why. But she thought he was moving his hand near his groin area.

'Then another male approached and the defendant moved away for a short time before returning.

'She could clearly see he had his penis outside of his jeans and it appeared to be erect, and he was moving his hands up and down in a "jerking motion" and looking straight at her.

'She shouted, "What the f**k are you doing?" and that alerted other service uses in the station.

'She added: "What's wrong with you!" whereupon the defendant looked scared and said, "I was just scratching."

'The other male asked if she was okay. The defendant moved off to Mill Gate Shopping Centre whilst the girl's mum drove her straight to the police station, where she made a report.

'The incident left her feeling very anxious and she said that she had a panic attack and she described the experience as "horrible".'

Police were shown CCTV footage of the incident and were immediately able to identify the suspect as Farrell given his history. He was quickly arrested.

Mr Howie added: 'The complainant has been affected, but it hasn't been as bad as it might be.

His latest victim was a 17-year-old girl who he flashed after she got off a tram in Bury, Greater Manchester, on October 12 last year (Pictured: Manchester tram station)

'He [Farrell] is deserving of full credit for his guilty plea. It saves [the victim] the ignominy of having to give evidence.'

Farrell had 13 offences on his record. In July 2008 he was convicted of outraging public decency after parked his car in a residential street and began exposing himself to passersby.

He was given a three year community order but in 2010, he targeted the two of her children after they were left playing in a family play area at a Morrisons supermarket while their mother was shopping.

He was jailed for 18 weeks but in 2012 he targeted an eight-year-old playing hide and seek with friends.

She had hidden behind a car when she saw Farrell approach in his wheelchair before exposing himself.

On a further occasion he boarded a tram at Piccadilly station in Manchester and carried out a sex act in front of horrified passengers while winking at a six-year-old child.

Farrell's defence counsel Waheed Babar said: 'He does accept responsibility for his actions.

At Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court (pictured), Farrell, of Bolton, faced jail after he admitted causing a public nuisance and indecent exposure but was freed with a suspended sentence after a judge told him: 'I'm going to give you a chance.'

'He has had previous treatment programmes, but the programme now offered seems more in line with the weaknesses of Mr Farrell.

'There does seem to be some confusion or a question as to his motivation - whether it's sexual or a frustration as to his disability.

'In the last pre-sentence report, it said that further work needs to be done to discover what his motivation is.

'That's something Mr Farrell is actively aware of. The programme that's been offered by the probation service is one that is incredibly arduous.

'One can see that this was sporadic offending. There are years when no offending takes place, and he is perfectly stable.

'He is clearly sorry for his actions. He doesn't understand why he does what he does.

'Perhaps this programme will help him to find out why he offends in this nature.'

Sentencing Farrell, Judge Tina Landale told him: 'You targeted this seventeen-year-old woman and intended to distress her and cause her to be disgusted and upset. Fortunately, she was helped by a member of the public.

'But her personal statement reveals the anxiety that she suffered and the panic attack that she suffered.

'The court is concerned because you have four previous convictions for identical behaviour, and it seems despite several attempts to stop your behaviour, it hasn't stopped you. There has been a treatment programme in 2008 and again in 2013.

'They worked for a period of time because there was a gap from 2013 to now when you stayed out of trouble.

'Clearly, the protection of the public is the court's priority today but I'm going to take a chance and suspend the sentence.'

Farrell was sentenced to nine months jail suspended for two years and was ordered to complete the Horizon counselling programme for sex offenders.

He was ordered to sign the Sex Offender Register for a further ten years.
A Portland State University professor who resigned in a scathing public letter in which he slammed the university for not allowing any type of thought that doesn't suit its liberal agenda has received support for his resignation.

Peter Boghossian was a full-time assistant professor of philosophy at Portland State University for 10 years until his resignation letter was published on Wednesday, calling it a 'social justice factory' that drives 'intolerance of divergent beliefs'.

He shared the letter with Bari Weiss, a former New York Times columnist who quit her role at the paper after claiming to encounter the same refusal to consider non-liberal ideas that Boghossian describes at PSU.

Boghossian has since received support for his letter from conservative personalities, including podcast host and former TV host Megyn Kelly, comedian Rob Schneider, Fox commentator Tammy Bruce and historian Niall Ferguson.

Fox News commentator Tammy Bruce called Boghossian 'one of the heroes among us'

Historian Niall Ferguson described Boghossian's open letter as 'devastating'

Comedian Rob Schneider also pledged support for Boghossian

At the same time, Boghossian is wondering why outlets he considers to be liberal media like NPR and MSNBC's Rachel Maddow haven't asked him to speak.

'Ive been deluged with requests to appear on conversative [sic] media regarding my resignation from PSU,' he tweeted.

'And yet, I dont consider myself a conservative. Ive received zero requests for interviews with liberal media.'

Boghossian is wondering why outlets he considers to be liberal media like NPR and MSNBC's Rachel Maddow haven't asked him to speak

Boghossian said in his letter that college staff were abdicating their 'truth seeking mission' and instead driving intolerance of 'divergent reliefs' by squashing any view that was not liberal.

'Students at Portland State are not being taught to think. Rather, they are being trained to mimic the moral certainty of ideologues,' he wrote.

Boghossian's letter was addressed to Portland State's Provost Susan Jeffords.

Boghossian previously penned a collection of hoax papers and submitted them to academic journals to prove that they would print anything that went along with their ideals, even if the theories in them were fake.

They included papers on dog rape and an adaptation to Hitler's Mein Kampf. The left reacted badly to it, saying he'd wasted editors' time.

Boghossian says he was harassed on campus with swastikas written on bathroom walls with his name next to them, purely because he had challenged the university's ideas.

He claims that at one time flyers went around campus depicting him with a Pinocchio nose, that he was spit on and that colleagues told students not to take his class.

In a statement to DailyMail.com, a spokesman for the university said: 'Portland State has always been and will continue to be a welcoming home for free speech and academic freedom.

'Portland State has always been and will continue to be a welcoming home for free speech and academic freedom. We believe that those practices are not in conflict with our core institutional values of student success; racial justice and equity; and proactive engagement with our community. As with all personnel matters, we have no comment on Dr. Boghossian's statement of resignation.' Portland State University spokesperson

'We believe that those practices are not in conflict with our core institutional values of student success; racial justice and equity; and proactive engagement with our community.

'As with all personnel matters, we have no comment on Dr. Boghossian's statement of resignation.'

'Those who asked for evidence to justify new institutional policies were accused of microaggressions.

'And professors were accused of bigotry for assigning canonical texts written by philosophers who happened to have been European and male,' he wrote.

Boghossian says the university failed to take action after a tenured professor interrupted his discussion with author Christina Hoff Sommers and evolutionary biologists Bret Weinstein and Heather Heying in March 2018.

He also said activists pulled speaker wires from one of his panels and that someone triggered a fire alarm at another.

Boghossian, in his resignation letter, also describes how university administrators investigated him in 2017 after receiving a complaint under Title XI - which protects against gender or sex based discrimination - from a man.

He said he was informed by students who were interviewed for the investigation that they were asked if he'd ever beat his wife or kids.

Boghossian worked at Portland State University as an assistant professor in the philosophy department. The university has not commented on his claims

In the end, the investigation found that his accuser's claims were unsubstantiated.

Boghossian says the harassment became worse when he produced a series of hoax papers in an effort to prove that academic journals would print them without checking, so long as they seemed to align with left-wing views.

From 2017 to 2018, the trio wrote 20 papers with absurd premises related to social justice. Four of them were eventually published in reputable journals.

The' study was meant to 'reboot' conversations around topics like gender, race and sexuality, the authors wrote in Aero Magazine.

'We undertook this project to study, understand, and expose the reality of grievance studies, which is corrupting academic research,' they said.

Among their works was an article in Cogent Social Sciences that alleged penises were the product of the human mind and responsible for climate change.

Their papers included the phrases 'gender-performative, high fluid social construct', 'exclusionary to disenfranchised communities', and 'isomorphic to performative toxic masculinity'.

Boghossian says the university accused him of 'not receiving approval to experiment on human subjects' after the trio was found out by reporters at the Wall Street Journal, cutting their hoax short.

'Shortly thereafter, swastikas in the bathroom with my name under them began appearing in two bathrooms near the philosophy department.

'They also occasionally showed up on my office door, in one instance accompanied by bags of feces.

'Our university remained silent.

'When it acted, it was against me, not the perpetrators.'

HOAX PAPERS SUBMITTED TO ACADEMIC JOURNALS TO PROVE THEY'LL ACCEPT ANYTHING THEY AGREE WITH Peter Boghossian, along with James Lindsay and Helen Pluckrose, published 20 papers based on fake theories like dog rape in an effort to prove how academic journals would publish anything they agreed with. They used buzz words to get them over-the-line. One paper, published in Gender, Place & Culture, claimed to be based on a year observing sexual misconduct among dogs in a US park. The paper said that parks were 'petri dishes for canine 'rape culture'' and said people needed to be aware of the way dogs were treated depending on their gender. The year before they had published a paper called 'The Conceptual Penis as a Social Construct,' in the journal Cogent Social Sciences. Another paper published in the journal Fat Studies claimed that body building is 'fat-exclusionary'. They published a paper in the Journal of Poetry Therapy was about feminist spirituality meetings. It was written by an algorithm. Another paper published in peer-reviewed journal 'Affilia' was a rewrite of a chapter from Mein Kampf which was accepted despite going through a double peer review. The authors claim their prank shows that higher education's fixation with identity politics has created 'absurd and horrific' scholarship. But critics said he operated in bad faith and wasted academics' time. Advertisement

He also described a Title IX investigation against him in the 2016-2017 school year, when a student seemed to have accused Boghossian of beating his wife.

'My accuser, a white male, made a slew of baseless accusations against me, which university confidentiality rules unfortunately prohibit me from discussing further. What I can share is that students of mine who were interviewed during the process told me the Title IX investigator asked them if they knew anything about me beating my wife and children.

'This horrifying accusation soon became a widespread rumor,' he wrote.

'Universities can enforce ideological conformity just through the threat of these investigations.'

Title IX is a 1972 civil rights law that prevents discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive federal financial assistance.

Boghossian's resignation comes as a slew of school teachers and college professors leave the classroom over similar complaints of a monolithic culture that leaves no room for debate.

Last month, Laura Morris quit in an emotional address at the Loudoun County School Board, where she explained why the 'equity trainings' and political dogma forced her to resign.

She said she could no longer be part of an organization that told her 'white, Christian, able-bodied females' needed to be reined in.

'This summer I have struggled with the idea of returning to school, knowing that I'll be working yet again with a school division that, despite its shiny tech and flashy salary, promotes political ideologies that do not square with who I am as a believer in Christ,' she said.

At $50,000-a-year Dalton in New York City, it was parents who made the first move.

'Every class this year has had an obsessive focus on race and identity, "racist cop" reenactments in science, "de-centering whiteness" in art class, learning about white supremacy and sexuality in health class,' parents of students at the private school wrote in a letter in April.

The head of the school, Jim Best, later resigned.

Some professors have complained that their school are not progressive enough, like when star professor Cornell West resigned from Harvard Divinity School in a letter in July.

West accused the university of denying him a tenured position because of 'the Harvard administration's hostility to the Palestinian cause,' which he supports.

'We all know the mendacious reasons given had nothing to do with academic standards,' he wrote.
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One in ten people in England are stuck on the NHS waiting list for routine operations, extraordinary figures revealed today as queues hit another record high.

Latest NHS data showed that 5.6million people across the country were waiting for elective surgery in July  the most since records began in 2007  after the number rose continuously during the pandemic.

Waiting lists spiralled after Covid forced hospitals to cancel routine operations and turn over whole wards to patients suffering from the disease. Social distancing and extra Covid precautions have made it even harder to start chipping away at the record waiting lists.

Record numbers of patients are now turning to private health rather than waiting for help from the NHS, figures show, with one private provider seeing patient numbers rise by 80 per cent on the back of the pandemic.

The waiting list includes people waiting for operations like knee, hip and joint replacements, as well as cataracts surgery.

The number who've waited more than a year to start treatment stood at 293,000 last month, almost three times as high as the same time last year when 83,000 had been on the list for this long.

And more than 1.7million people have been waiting more than 18 weeks for surgery, outside the period in which the NHS aims to see every patient.

The Royal College of Surgeons said today that behind these 'eye-watering' statistics were patients 'waiting in pain' that was leaving them unable to work or carry on with their daily lives. Top medics said the NHS was already 'running on empty' as it heads into winter which is its busiest period.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid has warned the NHS waiting list could reach 13million without immediate action as he pledged to tackle growing numbers.

Boris Johnson has promised to pump an extra 10billion a year into the NHS to clear the mammoth backlog, on top of a 5.4billion cash boost announced for the NHS a couple of days ago.

But critics warned the money will simply be 'swallowed up' by the health service, which has been given no firm targets to hit to justify the cash.

The number of patients waiting for routine hospital treatment hit 5.6million in July, the highest figure since records began in 2007. And health chiefs have warned the backlog is going to get much worse before it gets better, with projections that it could soar up to 13million by the end of the year if no action is taken

Patients forced to wait more than 18 weeks for routine surgery - the maximum time someone should wait under the NHS's own rules - reached 1.7million in July, the highest level in four months

Some 293,000 people had been waiting more than a year for treatment on the NHS by July this year, figures showed. This was down slightly on last month when there were 304,803 people on the list, but still almost three times the same levels last year. The list has surged after the pandemic forced hospitals to turn over whole wards to fighting the virus

The longest waiting times were for trauma and orthopaedic treatment such as hip and knee replacements, the Royal College of Surgeons said.

This was followed by general surgery, such as gallbladder removals, and hernia operations.

Tim Mitchell, vice president of the College, said: 'Todays waiting times figures show the new funding for planned surgery is sorely needed.

'Behind these eye-watering statistics are patients waiting in pain for hip and knee replacements and for heart, brain and other operations.

Record number of patients turning to private care due to waiting lists Patients are choosing to pay for their own care rather than join the ever-growing NHS waiting list. The chief executive of Spire Healthcare, Justin Ash, said demand for their services had rocketed by 80 per cent. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'An increasing number of people are choosing to pay for their care. 'In particular, they're finding it difficult to get through to hard-pressed GPs.' Mr Ash added that the NHS should use private hospitals to help clear its backlog, saying it would be 'good for getting the waiting list down if companies liek us were used more.' Spire Healthcare operates 39 private hospitals in the UK. Boris Johnson has pledged a further 5.4billion to the NHS over the next six months to help clear the backlog. But unions have already warned this will not solve the chronic shortage of doctors and nurses. They also point out that many beds in hospitals are not available because of social distancing measures. Advertisement

'Without surgery, many would be left unable to work or carry out everyday activities, their quality of life greatly diminished.

He added: 'We realise that reducing this enormous backlog will require commitment and a great deal of hard work from frontline NHS staff.

'However, as this weeks plan from the Government acknowledges, we also need extra capacity in the NHS, through the creation of new surgical hubs.

'The NHS will also need doctors, nurses and surgeons to staff these hubs, which requires long-term investment in our workforce.'

Siva Anandaciva, chief analyst at The Kings Fund, said: 'All NHS services are affected, with primary care, hospital care and mental health services seeing the demand for care rise as the immediate threat of Covid recedes.

'Even before Covid, waiting lists for treatment had substantially worsened.

'The significant investment the Government has now promised is very welcome but will not lead to an increase in the number of hospital beds or clinical staff overnight.

'The Prime Minister is right to warn the public that waiting lists will get worse before they get better.

'To deliver on his promise to cut the backlog, the Government now needs to back the investment it has provided with a plan to ensure the NHS gets the staff it needs.'

Dr Susan Crossland, president of the Society for Acute Medicine, said: 'Despite the distractions of funding announcements this week, this data shows the dire state of affairs we are in well before we embark on the challenges of winter.'

Tracey Loftis, head of policy and public affairs at Versus Arthritis, said: 'The latest NHS figures again demonstrate the huge numbers whose lives are literally on hold as they are left struggling with the agony of severe arthritis, waiting for treatment.' She added that joint replacement surgery must be a 'priority area'.

NHS England said many more tests and treatments have been delivered this summer compared to the last, while hospitals cared for thousands more patients with Covid.

It said there were 3.9million diagnostic tests and 2.6million patients started consultant-led treatment in June and July, compared with 2.7million tests and 1.6million treatments over the same time last year.

NHS England also pointed to data showing that almost half a million people were checked for cancer in June and July, among the highest numbers on record.

Professor Stephen Powis, national medical director for NHS England, said: 'NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to deliver millions more tests, checks, treatments and operations than they did last summer despite caring for many more Covid patients.

'Caring for 450,000 patients with the virus has inevitably had a knock-on effect on less urgent care and left a backlog but staff are working around the clock to make the best possible use of Government investment to treat as many people as possible.

'We do not know how many of those who held back from accessing care during the pandemic still need treatment, but we expect more to come forward in the coming months, and I urge anyone who needs the NHS to come forward, including through NHS 111 online so that staff can help you with the best option for your care.'

The health and social care budget reached 212.1million in 2020, according to the King's Fund. Some 148.7million of the sum was planned funding, while the remaining 63.4million was dished out to cope with the Covid crisis. For the second half of 2021 and first half of 2022, minister plan to spend a total of 181.4million on the health service, 22.4million of which will be linked to Covid recovery

The health service's budget in 2024/25 will be nearly four per cent higher than it was in 2018/19, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies. It is projected to reach 160billion, according to the funding that was announced yesterday

NHS plans to hire dozens of new 270,000-a-year executives The NHS will hire dozens of new executives on salaries of up to 270,000  to make sure the new 36billion health and social care tax is spent wisely. The revelation fuelled growing fears about where the extra cash raised by Boris Johnson's controversial reforms will be going. Health Secretary Sajid Javid promised yesterday to be 'watchful for any waste and wokery' over the 12billion a year raised by a 1.25 percentage point increase in national insurance. But critics slammed the creation of 42 chief executives of integrated care boards in England, whose job will be to 'deliver joined-up services' across the NHS and social care. Online job adverts reveal each executive will be paid an average of 223,261. Seven jobs are advertised with salaries of 270,000, which is 80 per cent more than the Prime Minister earns. According to the job adverts, successful candidates will need to be 'politically astute' and 'actively champion diversity, inclusion, and equality of opportunity for all'. Jake Berry, head of the Northern Research Group of Tories, said: 'Throwing other people's money down a bottomless pit doesn't become a good idea if you put the NHS logo next to it.' Another Conservative MP told the Daily Telegraph: 'People on low salaries will have difficulty understanding why they are having to pay significantly more tax partly to pay mega salaries for these new posts.' British taxpayers have been warned that Mr Johnson's manifesto-busting NHS handout will be 'gobbled up' permanently by the health service, with waiting lists and delays here to stay. The cash injection has been given to the NHS without any firm targets to meet, which has raised fears the money will simply be swallowed. NHS bosses have already complained the sum isn't enough to clear the backlog. Under proposals, half of the 10bn a year will be spent on social care in 2023 before the full amount is devoted to the care sector in 2025 and, in theory, the NHS reverts to its normal budget. Critics have raised doubts about the plan, claiming that if the NHS goes on a recruitment spree to plug staffing gaps then a higher budget will become 'baked into the system'. Advertisement

It comes as the Government prepares to hand 10billion a year to the NHS until 2023, when it says half of the figure will be devoted to the care sector and 2025, when the NHS will be asked to revert to its normal budget.

Critics have raised doubts about the plan, claiming that if the NHS goes on a recruitment spree to plug staffing gaps then a higher budget will become 'baked into the system'.

Announcing the tax hike this week, Mr Johnson said the cash would go towards nine million more checks, scans and procedures by the end of 2025, as part of the 'biggest catch-up programme in the NHS's history'.

He promised to boost NHS capacity for routine operations by 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels, hire 50,000 more nurses and open new surgical hubs to deliver extra operations and other procedures.

By 2025, around 40 per cent of all of day-to-day Government spending will go to the the Department of Health and Social Care, which funds the health service, according to the Resolution Foundation.

The conservative think-tank, the Institute for Economic Affairs (IEA), warned the cash boost will almost entirely be spent on hiring new staff and increasing wages, which will be hard to recoup after 2025.

Julian Jessop, an economics fellow at the IEA, said: 'There is a risk that a temporary increase in spending on the NHS, to fix a temporary problem, becomes baked into the system, particularly via higher pay.

'Without fundamental reform, the NHS is black hole which will swallow any money spent on it, leaving nothing extra for social care.'

The left-wing Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) said the funding is 'nothing like enough to get through the backlog', with the NHS alone needing 15billion per year to address the waiting list.

NHS England was already 38,952 nurses short at the end of June and it is not clear how quickly surgical hubs could take to set up or how they will be staffed.

Online job adverts posted by the health service yesterday showed it was looking to hire dozens of new executives on salaries of up to 270,000  to make sure the new cash injection is spent wisely.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid promised yesterday to be 'watchful for any waste and wokery' over the 12billion a year raised by a 1.25 percentage point increase in national insurance.

But critics slammed the creation of 42 chief executives of integrated care boards in England, whose job will be to 'deliver joined-up services' across the NHS and social care.

Jake Berry, head of the Northern Research Group of Tories, said: 'Throwing other people's money down a bottomless pit doesn't become a good idea if you put the NHS logo next to it.'

Another Conservative MP told the Daily Telegraph: 'People on low salaries will have difficulty understanding why they are having to pay significantly more tax partly to pay mega salaries for these new posts.'

The health service also faces challenges from a surge of Covid and flu cases expected this winter and social distancing still being enforced in hospitals. Hospitals are aiming to keep two metres between patient beds and staff, which requires more space and can reduce capacity.

It has also been told to prepare for mammoth vaccination programmes for Covid booster jabs and for all over-12s, as well as the country's biggest-ever flu jab rollout, which is expected to reach 35million people.

Department of Health data showed there were 5,100 Covid patients in England's hospitals by the end of July. This figure had risen to 6,300 by September 8, the latest date available.
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A time capsule that has been in the base of the toppled Robert E. Lee Confederate statue in Richmond, Virginia, for 131 years will be replaced today with a metal box filled with woke 2021 artifacts including an expired COVID-vaccine, photos from Stop Asian Hate protests, BLM stickers and a 'Virginia is for Lovers' Pride badge.

The new capsule contains 39 items that were proposed by residents of the city and selected by a group that included the state's First Lady Pamela Northam.

Northam, who filled the box up on Tuesday, will put it in the place of the old capsule today - a day after the statue of Lee was brought down and sawed in half in front of a cheering crowd of BLM protesters.

The old, copper capsule is from 1887 - three years before the statue went up. It is believed to contain a silver dollar and relics from the Civil War including Confederate buttons.

Crews started looking for it at 8am on Thursday but after four hours, they still hadn't been able to find it.

The 2021 time capsule includes a You Are Not Alone flyer found in the street after a George Floyd protest last year, a COVID mask worn by Virginia's First Lady Pam Northam, photos from a Stop Asian Hate protest, a Virginia is for Lovers sticker, a hand painted gourd rattle that was a gift from the Mattiponi and Pamunkey nations, a hip hop album. These artifacts will replace Confederate buttons and a silver dollar that are in an 1887 capsule in the base of the pedestal now

Crews move a section of the base as they attempt to locate a time capsule said to be buried in the base of the statue of on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021

Construction crews are drilling to find the old capsule in the base of the concrete pedestal on Thursday morning

Once the old pedestal is located and removed, they will replace it with the new, silver box, filled with modern artifacts

THE 39 ARTIFACTS INSIDE RICHMOND'S 2021 TIME CAPSULE TO GO IN BASE OF ROBERT E. LEE STATUE 1. 'Ballerina at the Lee Statue' photo taken on June 5th, 2020 2. Expired Vial of COVID-19 Pfizer Vaccine and CDC Vaccination Record Card 3. National Geographic Special Issue '2020 in Pictures' with cover image of Lee Monument in Richmond 4. Black Lives Matter sticker 5. Collection of Michael Paul Williams Pulitzer prize-winning columns on Monument Avenue 6. 'Writing a new history' Kente cloth worn by the Commissioners of the Congressionally chartered 400 Years of African-American History Commission and Ghanian emissaries that participated in the 400th commemoration of 1619 at Point Comfort in Hampton 7. New Virginians" booklet with portraits of 24 immigrants 8. General Assembly Acts of Assembly from the 2020 Special Session 9. 'Virginia is for Lovers' pride pin and stickers 10. The Protagonist poem in uncontracted Unified English Braille 11. Better Together LED Board coded by local schoolgirls 12. VA Ratify ERA sash and ERA 2020 pins 13. YOU ARE NOT ALONE pink heart print found on Richmond street after George Floyd protests in May 2020 14. Election Officer Badge for 2020 General Election 15. Monument Avenue Hip Hop Album by Noah-O and Taylor Whitelow 16. Prayer beads left by a family member who passed away from COVID-19 17. Danville Public Schools First Lady face mask, donated by Pam Northam 18. Photos of the June 4, 2020 press conference announcing the removal of the Lee Statue 19. Steel railroad spike talking piece found near African Ancestral Burial Ground 20. Photos and fliers from Stop Asian Hate protests in May 2021 21. Program and video from the dedication of Arthur Ashe Boulevard featuring a keynote from former Congressman John Lewis 22. Letter describing Virginia University Union's history and commitment to the Richmond community 23. Photo of the Virginia State Police at 14th and F Street NW in Washington helping DC Metro Police Department patrol the city for unrest after the insurrection at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 24. Essays and poems from Arcadia Middle School students reflecting on the experience of being a student during a pandemic 25. Senate Resolution Commending the League of Women's Voters 26. 'Charlottesvilles Robert E. Lee Monument is Coming Down, Thanks to Me and Black Women Like Me' July 10, 2021 Teen Vogue article written and submitted by Zyahna Bryant 27. Hard copy of the Virginia Poet Laureate Luisa Igloria's work Dear America 28. Gifts from the dedication ceremony from the Mattiponi and Pamunkey nations, hand painted gourd rattle and hand crafted earrings with sturgeon scale and beading 29. Booklet which outlines Virginias first One Virginia Plan for Inclusive Excellence 30. Rumors of War Wasn't a Rumor photo lithographic plate with oil-based ink & sealant 31. Copy of the LGBTQ Richmond Walking Tour created by Blake McDonald 32. First Presbyterian Church Session 2020 minutes approving the formation of a Dismantling Racism 33. Video of the One Commonwealth Many Virginians: Uniting in Interfaith Prayer for Healing and Unity event 34. Piece of tarp from the unveiling of Kehinde Wileys Rumors of War Statue and photos from the unveiling event 35. Document describing selected student submissions from the Governor's Inaugural Black History Month Historical Marker Contest 36. Post-Colonial Love Poem by 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry Winner Natalie Diaz 37. New Legacy Postcard 38. List of artifacts in the previous capsule as described in a Richmond Dispatch article 39. Photo collage of individuals who contributed artifacts to the new time capsule and thank you note Advertisement

If they can't get it out without removing too much of the concrete pedestal, they will stop. The new capsule will still be buried.

A newspaper article from 1887 says that it also contains a photograph of 'Lincoln lying in his coffin' that was donated by Miss Pattie Leake, a school principal from a prominent Richmond family.

Historians are dubious about whether it is an actual photograph of Lincoln in his coffin or a sketch or print of him lying in state.

Virginia officials have not yet indicated what they will do with the 1887 capsule or its contents.

In its place will go 39 artifacts that Northam says are more in keeping with the times.

They include a photograph of a black ballerina dancing in front of the vandalized statue, which was covered in graffiti last summer after the killing of George Floyd, a copy of the National Geographic '2020 in Pictures' issue with a photograph of the Lee monument on the cover, and a 'Kente cloth worn by the Commissioners of the Congressionally chartered 400 Years of African-American History Commission'.

Governor Ralph Northam said the new capsule captures 'the resilience and struggle of life, within a pandemic'.

Janice Underwood, Virginia's Chief Diversity officer, said on Tuesday: 'Theres more here in this capsule that brings us together and unites us as we walk toward the future, as opposed to this sort of polarizing conversation of what race is to Virginia.

'This idea of celebrating the Lost Cause? Were beyond that.

'We get to tell a different story'.

The 21ft bronze statute of Lee atop a horse will now be sent to the Goochland Women's Correctional Center in Virginia until officials know what to do with it permanently. It is the latest Confederate statue to have been toppled by the BLM movement amid protest from white residents who thought it should be preserved in history.

Crews began hoisting the 21-foot-tall bronze likeliness of Lee on horseback about 8 a.m. EST and an hour later, it was on the ground, protected by a fence which kept crowds of spectators back.

After being brought to the ground, workers began severing the top of the statue from the bottom using electric saws.

Workers who were removing the statue gave the crowd a three-second countdown before they lifted the statue from its pedestal.

The crowds of spectators cheered, whooped then broke into song, chanting 'Na na na na, na na na na, hey hey, goodbye' as it was lowered to the ground. They also chanted 'Black Lives Matter'.

The 40ft concrete pedestal that it sat atop will remain in place for now, until officials decide what to do with it.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam made the decision to remove the statue last year ten days after George Floyd's killing by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin.

The statue was erected in 1890, 25 years after the end of the Civil War, and 20 years after Lee's death. It was funded by the Lee Monument Commission, founded in 1886, which was led by Lee's nephew, former Virginia Governor Fitzhugh Lee.

In a statement after it was removed, Gov. Ralph Northam said: 'This was a long time coming, part of the healing process so Virginia can move forward and be a welcoming state with inclusiveness and diversity'.

He added that it represented '400 years of history that we should not be proud of'.

The statue had been fenced off and the roads surrounding it were closed at the start of the week in an effort to thwart crowds of protesters on both sides of the debate over removing it.

Pedestrians watched the removal in a designated area on Monument Avenue.

Northam announced plans to remove statue in June 2020, 10 days after George Floyd died under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer, sparking nationwide protests against police brutality and racism.

In anticipation of the statue coming down, the roads around it in Richmond were closed on Wednesday.

The plans were stalled for more than a year by two lawsuits filed by residents opposed to its removal, but rulings last week by the Supreme Court of Virginia cleared the way for the statue to be taken down.

It wasn't immediately clear what would become of the sculpture, though some media reports indicated it would be stored until government officials determined how to dispose of it.

A copper time capsule that was placed at the cornerstone of the pedestal October 27, 1887, will be removed Thursday.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam called the removals a sign of the time but some residents opposed it, claiming it went against 1890 deeds which protected the statue.

'This monument and its time capsule reflected Virginia in 1890and its time to remove both, so that our public spaces better reflect who we are as a people in 2021,' he said in a news release.

'The past 18 months have seen historic change, from the pandemic to protests for racial justice that led to the removal of these monuments to a lost cause. It is fitting that we replace the old time capsule with a new one that tells that story.'

Library records indicated 37 local residents and businesses contributed about 60 objected related to the Confederacy to the historic cache.

On Thursday, an 1890 time capsule from the base of the statue will be removed and replaced instead with one from 2021 that includes 39 artifacts including BLM stickers and Pride badges. The box was filled by Virginia First Lady Pam Northam last week

The time capsule will be placed at the site on Thursday, after crews remove the 1887 capsule that is believed to be a copper box

Governor Ralph Northam today announced the artifacts for the new time capsule, crafted by Richmond sculptor Paul DiPasquale.

'The 1887 capsule we will remove this week offers us an incisive bite of time when the Lee Monument was erected,' DiPasquale said in a press release. 'Now in 2021, this capsule gives future Virginians artifacts of the tectonic transition that has happened to us.

He added: 'The pedestal marks the past and has a new message for the future: we, all of us, are the New Virginia.'

After the statue was removed on Wednesday, Northam said: 'FinallyVirginia and Monument Avenue have moved beyond celebrating the Confederate insurrection. We can all look forward to seeing Virginias history remembered in a way that reflects who we are in the 21st century.'

While many saw the statue as an offensive glorification of the Souths slave-holding past, public officials had long resisted its removal, along with residents of Virginia who argued moving the monument would be akin to erasing history.

After the statue is taken down, crews on Thursday will remove plaques from the base of the monument and will replace a time capsule that is believed to be inside.

After removing the statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee from its pedestal, workers saw off the torso in Richmond, Virginia, USA, 08 September 2021

The huge statue of General Robert E. Lee is removed from the pedestal where it has been for 131 years in a huge BLM victory on Wednesday morning

The horse is removed from Monument Avenue on Wednesday afternoon after the top half was removed

People celebrate as the statue of Robert E. Lee is lowered from its pedestal at Robert E. Lee Memorial during a removal September 8, 2021 in Richmond, Virginia. The Commonwealth of Virginia is removing the largest Confederate statue remaining in the U.S. following authorization by all three branches of state government, including a unanimous decision by the Supreme Court of Virginia

Richmond activist Japhari Jones (right) and another activist who declined to give his name (left) trade accusations about who is more true to the anti-racism movement following removal of the statue of Confederate general from Monument Avenue

Hundreds gathered to watch the statue going up in 1890. The Civil War ended 25 years earlier and Lee died in 1870. It was erected in 1890 at the commission of his nephew, the former Governor of Virginia, Fitzhugh Lee, and was paid for by the Lee Monument Association. There is believed to be a time capsule from 1887 buried in the base of the pedestal that will be removed today

In Richmond, a city that was the capital of the Confederacy for most of the Civil War, the Lee statue became the epicenter of last summers protest movement. The city has removed more than a dozen other pieces of Confederate statuary on city land since Floyds death.

The base of the statue was covered with vandalized after Floyd's death. It was covered with graffiti, art work, and comments calling for racial equity and social justice.

Given that the statue is one of the largest and most recognizable Confederate monuments in the country, its removal is expected to draw a crowd and a heavy law enforcement presence.

The Lee statue was created by the internationally renowned French sculptor Marius-Jean-Antonin Mercie and is considered a masterpiece, according to its nomination to the National Register of Historic Places, where it has been listed since 2007.

When the monument arrived in 1890 from France, an estimated 10,000 Virginians used wagons and rope to haul its pieces more than a mile to where it now stands. The statue was the first of five Confederate monuments to be erected on Richmonds Monument Avenue, at a time when the Civil War and Reconstruction were over, but Jim Crow racial segregation laws were on the rise.

The Northam administration has said it would seek public input on the statues future.

The pedestal will be left behind for now amid efforts to rethink the design of Monument Avenue.

Some racial justice advocates dont want it removed, seeing the graffiti-covered pedestal as a symbol of the protest movement that erupted after Floyds killing.

After Floyds death, the area around the statute became a hub for weeks of protests and occasional clashes between police and demonstrators.

The pedestal has been covered by constantly evolving, colorful graffiti, with many of the hand-painted messages denouncing police and demanding an end to systemic racism and inequality.


A police anti-terrorism expert who was injured by a faulty pub awning as she waited for a taxi is suing brewing giants Greene King for almost 400,000.

Paula Walsh-Thornburn, a counter-terrorism researcher with the Met, was standing outside the Chelsea Potter pub in London's Kings Road in December 2013 when a metal part of a canopy at the front of the pub fell off and landed on her head.

The 56-year-old says the accident, which caused two black eyes and led to her having brain scans, has left her with severe fibromyalgia, causing widespread pain, fatigue, muscle stiffness and sleep disturbance.

However while liability for the accident is not disputed, Greene King's lawyers have branded Mrs Walsh-Thornburn's case 'fundamentally dishonest' - claiming she is exaggerating her symptoms.

The court heard their claim of dishonesty is partly based on secret surveillance footage of Mrs Walsh Thornburn walking at a 'normal' pace, something that is disputed by the 56-year-old.

Mrs Walsh-Thornburn says the knock on the head sparked a severe spiral in the fibromyalgia which had plagued her for the previous five years, causing chronic pain and drastically restricting her mobility.

Paula Walsh-Thornburn was injured by a faulty pub awning and is now suing brewing giants Greene King for 379,00 as she says incident worsened her fibromyalgia. Pictured: Mrs Walsh-Thornburn (left) and husband Neil Walsh-Thornburn outside Mayors and City County Court

Although she was already struggling with the disease, she says it was already 'stabilising' and she was hoping to increase her work hours.

But the accident's traumatic effects forced her to slash her working hours and she says she may have to stop working within the next two years due to the 'persistent nature and increasing severity of the fibromyalgia symptoms', explained her barrister, Joanna Hughes.

She claims if it was not for the accident she would have kept working until retiring at age 67.

'She is now very disabled, mostly by her symptoms of fibromyalgia,' Ms Hughes told Judge Stephen Hellman at Mayors and City of London County Court.

Mrs Walsh-Thornburn is suing Greene King Plc for 379,000 compensation, claiming she has become a 'totally different person' due to the legacy of her accident.

As well as blighting her career, her lawyers also say she needs compensation to cover an extra 12-and-a-half hours per week of care provided by her husband, Neil, a retired police officer.

Mrs Walsh-Thornburn says the incident worsened her fibromyalgia and that she may have to quit her job as a counter-terrorism expert for the Met Police as a result of the condition

Richard Whitehall, for Greene King, said the pub company accepts she suffered some 'short-lived soft tissue injuries' - with up to 'six weeks of worsened symptoms'.

But the maximum compensation she should recover for her injuries is around 1,500, he argued.

Mrs Walsh-Thornburn 'vehemently denies that she has been dishonest and rejects the allegations against her', her barrister told the court.

However, if the trial judge ultimately finds that Mrs Walsh-Thornburn has exaggerated her claim, she could end up walking away without a penny, as well as picking up a crushing bill in lawyers' fees.

'If the allegation of fundamental dishonesty is proved, the claimant will be facing the potential loss of her home as well as possible proceedings for contempt of court,' said Ms Hughes.

'The stakes for her could not be higher.'

The court heard Mrs Walsh-Thornburn was injured while waiting for a taxi outside the Chelsea Potter pub (pictured) in London's Kings Road which is operated by brewing giants Greene King

Greene King's claim that Mrs Walsh-Thornburn has 'exaggerated her disabilities' is partly based on secret video surveillance taken over five days in 2020, which is said to have shown her walking at a 'normal' speed.

But her lawyers insist the video footage is totally consistent with her accounts to medics about her condition.

And her barrister told the court: 'Mrs Walsh-Thornburn denies that the footage shows her "walking at normal pace for over an hour" as alleged by the defendant and she will say that is an unreasonable interpretation given that she is consistently shown to be overtaken by other pedestrians whilst being filmed.'

The accusation of dishonesty also flatly contradicted the agreed medical evidence that Mrs Walsh-Thornburn is now 'very disabled', she added.

'Mrs Walsh-Thornburn rejects Greene King's characterisation of this as a minor accident,' continued Ms Hughes.

'She sustained a blow to the head causing two black eyes and was given two brain scans.

Greene King claim Mrs Walsh-Thornburn is exaggerating and say claim is only worth 1,500

'It was a traumatic and frightening experience.

'Greene King alleges that she had recovered within six weeks. It is unclear what the basis for this is.

'To the extent that the defendant relies upon the fact that she returned to work three weeks after the accident, Mrs Walsh-Thornburn avers that she is someone who has consistently demonstrated an admirable commitment to her work, notwithstanding her health issues, and that her stoicism should not be used against her.'

Greene King are challenging Mrs Walsh-Thornburn's claims that she is affected by 'a range of significant limitations in her function', insisting that 'her evidence as to her symptoms and function is dishonest'.

Mr Whitehall explained: 'To be clear, it is not Greene King's case that there is nothing wrong with the claimant - it is accepted that she suffers from fibromyalgia and has done since long before the accident.

'It is their case that she has overstated the nature, extent and progression of her symptoms and restrictions.'

The trial is continuing before Judge Hellman.
A Maryland man who was arrested for stabbing a woman in the buttocks with a semen-filled syringe in a grocery store was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Tuesday.

The verdict comes 18 months after Thomas Bryon Stemen, 51, was charged for assault and reckless endangerment when he stabbed Katie Peters with a syringe in her right buttock at the Anne Arundel County grocery in Churchton, Maryland.

Peters said she confronted Stemen after the attack in February 2020, who reportedly told her: 'I know, it feels like a bee sting, doesn't it?'

Police confiscated the needle from Stemen and later found several more syringes in the man's car, all of which contained samples of his semen.

Thomas Bryon Stemen, 51, was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Tuesday after he stuck a syringe filled with his own semen in victim Katie Peters' buttocks in a Maryland grocery store last February

Peters (pictured) said she confronted Stemen, who reportedly told her: 'I know it feels like a bee sting, doesn't it?'

Testing of several syringes confiscated from Stemen's car showed they contained semen, police said

Peters told CBS Baltimore that she felt Stemen bump into her then something that felt like a cigarette burn.

After confronting Stemen, Peters went home but called her son when she found a puncture wound on herself.

She said: 'I started driving home (and) it started hurting really bad.

'I called my son and said, ''Something's not right, I hope nothing happens. I hope I make it home, I love you.''

Following the incident, Anne Arundel County Police Sgt. Jacklyn Davis said: 'If you've seen this video, it's very aggressive, it's very deliberate  and that makes us think it's not his first time doing this.'

This is the latest encounter with the law for Stemen, who was also served a warrant in 1999 as a fugitive from justice, according to Maryland online court records.

The records also show he went to court in 2013 for a domestic violence civil suit.

A man follows an unsuspecting woman into a grocery store in Maryland before the syringe attack

The woman backed out of the front door looking to the ground for what may have pricked her

Following the assault, Stemen followed Peters out of the store, as they both looked for an object on the ground. The two can also be seen briefly exchanging words in the short video

The attack, caught on surveillance video, shows Stemen walking closely behind Peters as she pushed a shopping cart into a supermarket.

Peters turned her back as she pushed the cart in with the others.

Then suddenly, Stemen quickly jabbed Peters with what appears to be a syringe.

She quickly jumped in reaction to the syringe prick and backed out of the store.

Following the assault, Stemen followed Peters out of the store, as they both looked for an object on the ground.

The two can also be seen briefly exchanging words in the short video.

Peters told news outlets she was put on preventative medications for 30 days.
Former U.S. press secretary Dana Perino accidentally goaded a Fox News colleague into revealing her pregnancy on live television.

Perino and fellow The Five co-hosts were discussing a survey during Wednesday nights episode that indicated most people have not tried anything new in the past two months.

The political commentator, who was former president George W. Bushs press secretary, then turned her attention to co-host Jessica Tarlov.

Jessica, did you try anything new? Perino said. Youve got something new coming.

A look of shock washed over Tarlovs face as she reluctantly responded to the query.

Yeah, and now the audience knows, Tarlov said, eliciting laughter from fellow panelists. Im pregnant.

Dana Perino (left) encouraged Jessica Tarlov (right) to announce her pregnancy on live TV

Perino immediately regretted the line of questioning she directed toward her colleague

Perino covered her face in shame after realizing what she had done.

There appeared to be no hard feelings, however, as the colleagues later exchanged lighthearted pleasantries on Twitter.

I love this woman @JessicaTarlov, Perino tweeted to her 1.9 million followers.

Let me be the one to accidentally spill the beans. But they are such good beans.

Tarlov responded: Saved me a lot of fretting over a reveal. Love you!

The colleagues exchanged lighthearted banter on Twitter following the televised goof

Tarlov and husband Roman Kuznetsov, who married in June, are expecting their first child

Tarlov, a Fox News contributor, joined the network in 2017.

She married her longtime boyfriend, Russian athlete Roman Kuznetsov, in June.

This is the first child for the couple, who have been dating since 2017.

The Fox News contributor is a Democrat, and provides alternative viewpoints during appearances on The Fives rotating roundtable.

She and Perino appear to have an amicable relationship, despite their political differences.

Perino didn't reveal all the details during her primetime gaffe.

The baby's gender and due date have yet to be revealed.
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City workers have coined the insulting nickname 'TW*Ts' for workers who only come in to the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays despite a drive by bosses across the nation to get employees back to work.

Tube trains remain half empty and 1.6million Britons are still on furlough despite the scheme coming to end in three weeks leaving many hundreds of thousands of people facing unemployment, it was revealed today.

But more than half of staff in Britain have said they want to keep working from home some of the time, with no more than three days at their company's headquarters following the pandemic.

Bosses say that overall productivity has dropped among employees not in the office, by up to 31 per cent. And yesterday it emerged that more than one in ten Britons say their employer in the private sector has already threatened pay cuts if they continue to work from home.

There is also growing row that public sector staff, including Whitehall civil servants, are not coming back to the office in huge numbers - and one government source told MailOnline they had been shocked to find civil servants reinstating social distancing measures in their department - despite it being no longer necessary.

And the number of job adverts offering new employees the chance to work at home for part of the week has trebled in the past year with businesses fearing they will put off new talent.

The so-called 'TW*T revolution' emerged as a recent poll of 2,000 workers by office expert Orega revealed that 53 per cent wish to adopt the model of Monday and Friday at home, with the middle of the week in the office. Just 17 per cent want to work entirely at home.

London's roads hit 77 per cent at 9am today - well above the 65 per cent on the same day and time in 2019, and 50 per cent in 2020. The figure was down on yesterday's 79% but still up on Tuesday's morning rush hour level of 76 per cent and Monday's 8am figure of 61 per cent.

But London Underground usage is still at only half pre-pandemic levels this week as people continue to work from home - despite commuters returning to the network which is now at its busiest in 18 months. Separately, the Department for Transport said demand for buses outside London has reached its highest weekday level since March 2020.

Commuters at a quiet Grand Central Station in Birmingham during rush hour today as a rush of staff working in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays - nicknamed TW*Ts - emerged

The most recent ONS data shows that of all workers, around a third are working regularly from home because of the pandemic. For those in IT, 80% aren't in the office all the time

Road congestion levels in London are now beyond the levels in 2020 and 2019, according to traffic experts TomTom, but public transport is quieter

Apple data published today that walking, driving and public transport use are all up on 2019 levels

Transport for London data shows bus and Tube usage has been rising but is still well below pre-pandemic levels in early 2020 - but is still short of pre-pandemic levels

Fears of mass layoffs when furlough ends next month as latest figures show 1.6MILLION jobs are still being propped up by the state The latest figures showed 1.6million jobs were still being propped up by the furlough scheme at the end of July Fears of a reckoning when furlough ends next month were fuelled today as the latest figures showed 1.6million jobs still being propped up by the scheme. Numbers had dipped by 340,000 by the end of July - the first month that employers had to pay 10 per cent of the salaries of their furloughed workers. Chancellor Rishi Sunak said he was pleased that fewer jobs were having to be supported than at any point since the pandemic started. However, experts warned that only a 'trickle' of staff were being taken off furlough and a million could still be reliant on the bailout when it comes to an end in a few weeks' time. HM Revenue & Customs figures showed 121,600 people between the ages of 18 and 34 were taken off the furlough scheme in June and July, the data showed. Advertisement

The number of journeys made on buses in Britain excluding London was at 69 per cent of pre-pandemic levels on Monday, the DfT said. Road traffic was at 100 per cent of pre-crisis levels while demand for rail was at 60 per cent.

As the debate over whether working from home will normal for almost all office workers, Zach Douglas, of Orega, said: 'Reports of the office's death have been greatly exaggerated. Brits have chosen to go back to the office but on their own terms  and businesses are accepting it'.

Experts have said that businesses will need to 'take back control' as more and more people start heading into work.

Guy Spragg Managing Director at office company, ClearSpace Group Limited: 'It is not a particular PC view, but I think it's time for companies to take back control and prioritise their operational business along with creating a flexible workplace environment. Naturally after the pandemic, WFH should and will most likely be part of the daily week, and any companies who do not offer this as an option may be seen as less attractive.

'So, the days where people should only work in the office are long gone, but the new way of working needs to be a harmonised balance between employee expectations and maintaining business objectives'.

Today it emerged that around 1.6 million people were still furloughed at the end of July, as the scheme started to wrap up, data shows.

HM Revenue and Customs said that around 340,000 people moved off furlough during the month, meaning fewer people are furloughed than at any point since the pandemic started.

July was the first month that employers had to pay 10% of the salaries of their furloughed workers, giving them an incentive to bring staff back, or end their employment.

'It's fantastic to see furlough levels at their lowest since the start of the pandemic with young people in particular getting back to work and kickstarting their careers as the UK gets back to business,' said Chancellor Rishi Sunak.

'With furlough naturally unwinding and coming to a close at the end of the month, we are doubling down on our Plan for Jobs - focusing our support on giving people the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the jobs of tomorrow.'

Around 121,600 people between the ages of 18 and 34 were taken off the furlough scheme in June and July, the data showed.

The over-65s are now the most likely to be on furlough, with 8% of those eligible in the age group still on the scheme.

ONS data oublished earlier this year showed that the highest levels of working from home, when they outnumbered those travelling to work, came in May and June 2020 and January and February 2021

An ONS survey of businesses found that the majority believe a quarter of staff will work from home regularly from now on

And in a clear shift, the number of businesses offering jobs with home working as an option has more than trebled during the pandemic

Nadhim Zahawi reveals only a quarter of his team work in office at any time A minister has said he wants to 'lead by example' in encouraging civil servants back to the workplace after he revealed that only a quarter of his team work in the office at any one time. Nadhim Zahawi said that, while all of his staff were back to working in Whitehall, they operate on a rota system so that just one in four are at their desks each day, with the rest carrying out their jobs from home. It comes after a spokesman for Boris Johnson said the Prime Minister wanted to see a 'gradual return of people to the workplaces' in the Civil Service, outlining the 'significant benefits' of office-based working. Asked about how many of his own team had returned to office working, vaccines minister Mr Zahawi told LBC radio: 'People are coming back and my staff now, as of this month for example, have got something like 25 per cent permanently back in the office on a rota system - so all of them are back effectively.' But he conceded that his Department of Health and Social Care office space could 'certainly' accommodate more in-person working. Advertisement

Official data on the number of people working from home - known as The Labour Market Survey - has not yet been released for 2021.

But last year's data, released earlier this year showed that 46.6% of the working population did some work at home during the pandemic - and 86% did so because of Covid lockdowns.

Of those who did some work from home, around one-third worked fewer hours than usual, 34.4%, and around one-third worked more hours than usual 30.3%.

Women were slightly more likely to do some work at home than men, 47.5% and 45.7% respectively. Occupations requiring higher qualifications and more experience were more likely to provide homeworking opportunities than elementary and manual occupations.

More than half of people living in London (57.2%) did some work at home.

People working from home spend 45 minutes fewer on their job each day, official data suggests.

Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures released in June show home workers only spend six-and-a-half hours a day on work.

In comparison, people still commuting into an office or factory spent around seven hours and 15 minutes a day working  including half-an-hour at home.

The data was taken from a survey of thousands of Brits, who were quizzed about how they spent their time over the past year.

It comes after it was revealed that millions of office staff may get a 'default' right to work from home under post-pandemic plans from ministers.

The proposals would change the law to make it impossible for employers to insist on staff attending the workplace unless they can show it is essential.

No10 will consult on the plan  part of a drive to promote flexible working  over the summer, ahead of possible legislation later this year.

Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures released today show home workers only spend six-and-a-half hours a day on work

People working from spent 45 minutes less a day on their job than those who returned to normal working conditions

The ONS data today showed that, overall, the average amount of hours people spent working at home in the UK increased from 55 to 74 minutes a day from March and April last year to March this year.

Retirees, stay-at-home mothers and unemployed people were included in the data.

Brits have been asked to work from home wherever possible since No10 introduced the first lockdown last spring.

The ONS also looked at how vaccinated people spent their time, compared to non-jabbed adults.

Statisticians said most people did not change their lifestyles much after receiving a vaccine, even as the programme was expanded to younger groups.

Most people with a vaccine said they did not see others from outside their household any more frequently than they had before their jab.
A cargo vessel ran aground in the Suez Canal today, briefly blocking the global shipping lane before it was refloated - nearly six months after the Ever Given was grounded for six days in March.

The Panama-flagged Coral Crystal ran aground in a double-lane stretch 33 miles into the canal, forcing the officials to redirect other vessels in the convoy to the other lane.

The canal's tugboats managed to float the south-bound vessel, which carries cargo weighing 43,000 tons and the Coral Crystal then resumed its voyage to Port Sudan on the Red Sea.

Officials have not said what caused the vessel to run aground.

It comes nearly six months after the Ever Given became wedged in the canal causing a six-day rescue operation and stopping 42billion of world trade.

Another vessel ran aground in the Suez Canal today temporarily blocking the global shipping line nearly six months after it was blocked for six days by the Ever Given (pictured)

The Ever Given blocked the major shipping lane in Egypt for nearly a week earlier this year. Under original plans the 400m-long ship was due to arrive at the Port of Felixstowe in Suffolk in early April. Pictured: The Ever Given when it was stuck in the Suez Canal on March 28, 2021

The Suez Canal (pictured with marine traffic today) is one of the world's busiest shipping lanes. It was briefly blocked today when a vessel ran aground 54km into the passageway. It was later refloated and traffic resumed

Coral Crystal was built in 2012, with a length of nearly 738ft (225 metres) and a width of over 104ft (32m).

It comes six months after the Ever Given became stuck on March 23, sparking a massive rescue operation that ended in one person's death, sunk rescue boat and forced 48 ships to find an alternative route.

Hundreds of ships were delayed as they waited for the canal to be unblocked and some vessels were forced to take the much longer route around the southern tip of Africa.

The Suez Canal Authority last month announced the Panama-flagged vessel had successfully sailed back through the passage into the Red Sea without any issues.

The Suez Canal Authority has announced that the ship has now successfully made its passage back through among other vessels coming from the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea

It was heading for Rotterdam when it ploughed into the sandy bank of a single-lane stretch of the canal about 3.7 miles north of the southern entrance, near the city of Suez in March.

After leaving the canal in August after being impounded for three months while its owners organised a compensation deal with Egypt, the ship headed for China.

The 1,312-foot ship, which carries cargo between Asia and Europe, was held in Ismalia for more than three months amid a financial dispute over compensation.

After an agreement was met between the ship's Japanese owner, Shoei Kisen Kaisha Ltd, and canal authorities it was freed to continue its voyage in July. While the terms of the agreement weren't released, Egypt settled on a 397million demand.
The black Chicago woman who was tackled by a white police officer during a physical altercation caught on film while she walked her dog in a closed park last month says she feared for her life.

Nikkita Brown told ABC News on Thursday that she thought she was going to be shot by the officer, who threatened to arrest her and to take her pet away.

'I thought I was going to die,' she said. 'I thought he was going to kill me.

'I had it in my mind that I was going to be shot.'

Brown said that she was told to leave the closed area on the north end of Lincoln Park even though there were other people in the area - and she suspects it was because of her race.

Nikkita Brown, The black Chicago woman who was tackled by a white police officer during a physical altercation caught on film while she walked her dog in a closed park last month, says she feared for her life

'I thought I was going to die,' she said. 'I thought he was going to kill me. 'I had it in my mind that I was going to be shot.' Brown is seen being nearly wrestled to the ground by the officer during the August 28 incident on the north edge of Lincoln Park

Brown's attorney has demanded that the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) reveal the identity of the officer (above)

'I walked past four kids that were behind me...white males. As soon as I saw the car pull up, I looked behind me to see if he said anything to the kids. He didn't,' Brown said.

The officer, who has not been identified, has been placed on administrative desk duty while the August 28 incident is being investigated by Chicago's Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA).

In a two-minute video, Brown and her dog are seen walking away from the officer who is following her closely, gesturing for her to move back.

After Brown turns around with her phone in her hand, the officer tries to grab it, before wrapping his arms around her as she resisted.

The officer nearly tackled Brown as he knocked her out of her shoes and put her in a body lock.

'Let go!' she screams as she struggles to break free from the officer.

Nikkita Brown was walking her dog shortly after midnight on August 28 in Chicago's Lincoln Park, according to her attorneys

They say she was on her way out when the officer 'brutally' attacked her 'for no reason'

Multiple videos show the pair engaging in a minute-long physical altercation during which Brown drops her phone and the officer puts her in a body lock

Bystanders were left troubled by the cop's behavior.

'Is he serious?' a voice asks behind the camera in one video.

In video captured from another angle, two people behind the camera say, 'Ay, watch the dog. He's tripping, bro. Like what?'

Brown told GMA on Thursday that she feared the situation would escalate once the officer got out of his car.

'I know that as soon as he got out the car, I'm thinking to myself, how can I kind of deter the situation? How can I deescalate the situation?' she said.

Brown's attorney, Keenan Saulter, released cell phone video shot by Brown which shows the officer getting out of his police cruiser.

'Now understand this,' he begins.

'Please don't,' Brown interrupts. 'Please respect my space. It's COVID. Six feet.'

'Respect your space? I'm about to put handcuffs on you,' the officer replies.

'You don't have a mask on!' Brown objects.

'I don't need a mask! I'm outside!' the officer retorts.

'I'm clearly walking away,' Brown told GMA.

'This man is getting out of this car. He's saying that he's going to take me to jail and I'm never going to see my dog again.

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot (left) said she was 'deeply concerned' by the footage. Chicago Police Superintendent David Brown (right) asked for patience as the city's police oversight agency investigates the matter

'This is ridiculous.'

The officer then puts Brown in a bodylock and the two struggle as her dog is dragged around on a leash. The dog barks and climbs up the officer's leg as its owner screams for help.

The struggle goes on for nearly two minutes during which Brown stays up on her feet.

'I knew if he got me on the floor, I would be dead,' Brown told ABC News.

Finally, the officer lets go and Brown walks away. No arrests were made.

Brown's attorneys said she returned home after the incident, called 911 and filed a report with a sergeant, though the attorneys said they haven't received a copy of that report.

Brown is reportedly 'suffering from emotional trauma as a result of this brutal, unprovoked and unlawful attack by this Chicago Police Department Officer'.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Monday she was 'deeply concerned' by widely circulated video of the incident, and Chicago's police superintendent asked the public for patience as the incident is investigated.

A spokesperson for COPA said that the agency will investigate and then issue a recommendation as to what disciplinary action - if any - should be taken against the officer.

The police oversight agency, COPA, says it's in contact with Brown's attorneys

The Saulter Law firm said their client was 'knocked out of her shoes' by the incident

'We have a responsibility to investigate allegations of police misconduct and determine if they are well founded based on the facts and evidence of each case,' interim COPA chief Andrea Kersten said in a statement.

'If violations did occur, COPA will hold the officer accountable.'

The Chicago Police Department released a statement saying that 'the officer in question has been placed on desk duty as the COPA investigates the video.'

Saulter has asked that COPA reveal the officer's identity so that an official complaint can be filed against him.

'There were other individuals in the park that night. So we still have to come back around to the question of "why her?"' Saulter said.

'The worst scenario would have been that he writes her a ticket for being in the park after 11:00pm.'

Saulter alleged that the officer in question has been involved in previous cases of racial profiling.

Brown told ABC News that the incident has left her emotionally scarred.

'If anything, I should feel even more protected by a police presence as a single woman walking at night, not be fearful that I'm going to die at the hands of an officer,' Brown said.
Marina Verbitsky, 46, allegedly told JetBlue officials at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night she had a bomb in her checked luggage

A woman who missed her flight after her family was late arriving at the gate falsely claimed she had planted a bomb in her checked luggage in an apparent effort to delay the plane so that her son would not be late for school, authorities say.

Marina Verbitsky, 46, was with her husband and son at Florida's Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night for a flight back to her home in Chicago.

But the family was late arriving at the gate at 8:45, and the flight was already taxiing to the runway with their checked baggage on board.

Verbitsky allegedly told JetBlue personnel that she needed to get on the plane because her son had school the next day, but was told that it was too late, the Washington Post reports.

At that point, Verbitsky allegedly started berating the employees.

Police say when she was told her her checked luggage was already on the flight, she claimed there was a bomb in one of her bags.

'She became very angry because they were not allowed to board the plane,' a Broward County sheriff's deputy wrote in a police report obtained by FOX News.

'She was using profanities toward the employees, and when she was notified the plane was taxiing to the runway with her checked luggage, she stated there was a bomb in her luggage.'

Verbitsky was promptly arrested, and the plane's takeoff was delayed.

All of the passengers were taken off of the flight and authorities with the Broward County Sheriff's Office threat management unit scoured the plane for a bomb - and found nothing.

Verbitsky is now facing a charge of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction.

Her bail was set at $10,000 - which she posted on Tuesday - and a Florida judge ordered her to undergo a mental health evaluation.

'It was a mistake,' a relative who asked not to be named told the Chicago Sun-Times.

'She was nervous about the son needing to go to school. It was a mess, but it was definitely not meant to be.'

Verbitsky has family in the area, the Sun-Times reports, but it is unclear whether she was in the area to visit them.

The threat delayed the flight, and all of the passengers on board had to be deplaned as authorities searched for the alleged bomb - and found nothing

She is the second person accused of making a false bomb threat at the Fort Lauderdale airport in just three months.

In July, Wegal Rosen, 74, was arrested after allegedly telling an employee at the ticketing counter there was a bomb in his bag, forcing the airport to evacuate three terminals, close roads and cancel or delay dozens of flights.

He received the same charge as Verbitsky, and could face up to 15 years in prison.

A judge also ordered him to never return to the airport.

And in May, the FBI arrested a Georgia man after he allegedly called into Lehigh Valley International Airport in Allentown, Pennsylvania, concerned his daughter was smuggling marijuana on a flight to St. Croix.

He allegedly asked a Delta employee whether they could take his daughter off the plane, the United States Department of Justice reports, to which the representative responded that the airline does have a protocol in place, but it could not be shared with him.

That is when, the DOJ reports, he became irate, identified himself as the girl's father and asked a Delta representative what they would do if 'I told you there was a bomb on the plane' before hanging up.

The representative then called the local law enforcement and corporate security and the passengers were deplaned as a search team and bomb-sniffing dog were deployed.

The daughter was also screened and questioned by a Lehigh Northampton Airport Authority detective, who ultimately concluded that no bombs or drugs were on the scene.

'The FBI and our partners take all threats of violence seriously. With lives potentially at risk, we have to,' Michael J. Driscoll, special agent in charge of the FBI's Philadelphia Division said in a statement.

'Hoax threats consume law enforcement resources needed for actual emergencies and cause serious disruptions for the locations and people targeted,' he added.

'Anyone who pulls something like this should expect the FBI to come knocking. It's a crime and you will be held accountable.'

It was the second bomb scare the Fort Lauderdale airport (pictured) faced in three months

Louts and loudmouths slapped in incidents involving cocaine use, attacks on flight attendants and fights with other passengers The FAA proposed a zero-tolerance policy in 2021 A man aboard a JetBlue flight from New York to Orlando allegedly threw objects at passengers, blocked the aisles and put his head up a flight attendants skirt. The plane made an emergency landing and he was handcuffed and fined $45,000

A man aboard a JetBlue flight from New York to San Francisco allegedly snorted cocaine, kept removing his facemask, made non-consensual contact with another passenger, threatened to harm and stab other passengers. The man was arrested and fined $42,000

A man aboard a Southwest Airlines flight from Orlando to Kansas City allegedly assaulted passengers around him because someone had refused to change seats to accommodate the man's partner. The man was arrested and fined $32,500

A man aboard a Frontier Airlines flight from Atlanta to New York allegedly assaulted two flight attendants after the plane landed, threatening to kill one of them. He was arrested and fined $30,000

A woman aboard a Frontier Airlines flight from Orlando to Providence, Rhode Island, allegedly kept kicking the plane's bulkhead, screaming obscenities at fellow passengers and flight attendants, locking herself in the bathroom and throwing nuts at people. She was arrested and fined $25,500 Advertisement

Meanwhile, Federal Aviation Administration officials say passengers' behavior on airplanes and in airports has worsened during the pandemic.

In August, it reported 3,889 cases of 'unruly behavior' by airline passengers, resulting in $1 million in fines against 80 passengers, including one JetBlue customer who was hit with the heaviest fine of $45,000 for hurling objects at passengers and putting his head up a flight attendant's skirt on May 24.

Of the incidents, which were detailed by federal investigators for the first time, nearly two-thirds involved passengers accused of violating the federal transportation-wide mask mandate.

Federal documents also show that half of the 34 new incidents that resulted in fines involved fights on planes heading to or from Florida. Nine passengers were accused of touching or hitting someone else, and eight passengers are accused of illegally drinking alcohol they snuck on board, CNN reports.

Unruly passengers aboard flights have made headlines recently and even spurred United Airlines to send out a company-wide memo, instructing its flight attendants not to duct tape passengers to their seat following previous incidents aboard competing airlines.

This year, the FAA imposed a zero-tolerance policy for interfering with or assaulting flight attendants that carries a fine of up to $35,000 and possible jail time.

Of the 3,900 cases reported, the FAA has opened 682 investigations into possible violations of federal laws.

The number of cases under investigation are about three times the number the agency has had to deal with in the last 15 years.

The FAA does not have the authority to file criminal charges, but instead proposes civil fines that the accused violators may pay or dispute.

House Transportation Chairman Peter DeFazio, of Oregon, told CNN that he would like to see steeper punishments for those accused of in-flight violence facing prison time.

'The first time we take one of these jerks who is assaulting flight attendants or attempting to take an aircraft down - and they go away for a few years and they get a massive fine - I think that will send a message,' he said.

The largest flight attendant union, the Association of Flight Attendants, has also called for more prosecutions.

'If you interfere with a crew member's duties and put the rest of the plane in jeopardy, or assault the crew member, you're facing $35,000 in fines for each incident and up to 20 years in prison,' association President Sara Nelson told CNN. 'People need to understand there are severe consequences here.'

Most recently, Timothy Armstrong, 61, of Las Vegas was recorded on cell phone video and appeared intoxicated on the flight from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City.

Passenger Dennis Busch, who posted part of the confrontation to TikTok, claimed that the man had been making racist and sexist comments to other passengers during the flight before he started recording.

After the plane appears to have landed, Armstrong can be seen gesturing his middle finger, while saying 'that's what you think about us,' before quickly walking up the aisle to confront a flight attendant.

As the flight attendant sees Armstrong coming near him, he tells the passenger to sit down several times.

Armstrong appears to slur his words as he responds: 'What? What? What? What are you going to kick me off this flight? I'm already here.'

Fellow passenger Dennis Busch filmed Timothy Armstrong, 61, having an intoxicated meltdown on an American Airlines flight from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

A flight crew confronted Armstrong about his behavior and ordered him to take a seat

He then goes on to say: 'No! That's what you think about us'.

Just seconds later, Armstrong is caught in his seat gesturing the middle finger one last time, saying: 'God Bless America.'

Armstrong is seen growling in his seat and chewing on his face mask.

Then he gets up and confronts the flight attendant once again, saying 'You can't hold us!'

Once the plane's doors opened, two police officers are seen escorting him off the plane.

He was taken to a hospital to be checked out before police cited him for public intoxication.
Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar has revealed she battled breast cancer earlier this year and her treatment for the disease 'went well.'

Klobuchar, 61, announced Thursday in a Medium blog post and live on Good Morning America that the Stage 1A breast cancer was detected during a routine mammogram back in February - which she had delayed due to the pandemic.

'Earlier this year I found out I had breast cancer,' she told Robin Roberts on GMA.

'[I had a] routine mammogram - something I put off during the pandemic like so many others - and I found out I had cancer.'

She underwent a lumpectomy on her right breast to remove the cancer followed by a course of radiation treatment which she completed in May.

The third-term Democrat senator said a checkup in August found the treatment was a success and she has now been told her 'chances of getting cancer again are the same as any average person - which is great.'

Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar told GMA she has been battling breast cancer and said her treatment for the disease has gone 'well'

Right now, thousands of women have undetected breast cancer  get those screenings, go in, get a mammogram, get whatever health checkup that you should normally be getting.  Sen. @amyklobuchar gives women advice after revealing breast cancer journey. https://t.co/OddQmonaVm pic.twitter.com/5cKeJjPrkK  Good Morning America (@GMA) September 9, 2021

Klobuchar told GMA she is now feeling 'much better' as she admitted it was difficult juggling her health challenges with both her work and dealing with the loss of her father to Alzheimer's disease.

'It's something no one wants to hear and no one wants to experience but it has really renewed my faith in the people around me and my purpose,' she said.

'I had to be juggling a lot like a lot of Americans right now.'

There was the 'bunch of hearings I was chairing, we had the big American Rescue Plan we got through, I had radiation two days after my dad died', she said, adding that it was 'a lot all at the same time.'

While she admitted it 'wasn't easy' dealing with it all, she said remembering 'the purpose of [her] work' helped her get through it as well as recognizing that 'so many people have it harder, or so many people found out [about having cancer] later.'

The 61-year-old also took inspiration from some of her colleagues who have battled cancer in the past.

'They didn't know I had it but I was like "yes",' she said.

'And the idea that there is a purpose larger than yourself like my friend John McCain always used to say.'

McCain, the former Republican senator, died after a long battle with brain cancer in August 2018, just days before his 82nd birthday.

Klobuchar paid tribute to her husband John and daughter Abigail for all their support over the last seven months as well as all the doctors and nurses who treated her.

'[I learned about] gratitude for all those that surrounded me - my family, my husband,' she said.

Klobuchar posted a statement about her health battle in a Medium post which she also shared to her Instagram (above). Klobuchar, 61, said the Stage 1A breast cancer was detected during a routine mammogram back in February - which she had delayed due to the pandemic

The Democrat paid tribute to her husband John and daughter Abigail (pictured altogether in a photo shared on her Medium post) for their support over the last seven months

She added: 'My husband getting up early and taking me to radiation, my daughter's phone calls, the nurses at the Mayo Clinic giving me a red, white and blue mask when I was done with the radiation.'

Klobuchar also credited the 'perfect strangers' who helped her 'not knowing that I had cancer, not knowing who I was', such as someone who helped her with her suitcase as she traveled between Minneapolis and Washington and was unable to lift it following the lumpectomy.

'A lot of people helped me get through this and I learned every day is a gift,' she said.

The Democrat said she was speaking out about her cancer battle in a bid to encourage other Americans not to delay getting health screenings and checkups.

She admitted she had - like many others - put off the routine screening due to concerns around COVID-19.

'I learned a lot through this year about the importance of getting those exams,' she said.

Klobuchar (pictured with Sen. Raphael Warnock left and Sen. Jeff Merkley right at the US Capitol on July 14) said she has now been told her 'chances of getting cancer again are the same as any average person'

'Right now, thousands of women have undetected breast cancer, one in three Americans have put off going to any kind of routine examination or procedure so doctors over and over are telling me that they're seeing people with much bigger problems than if they'd gone in early,' she said.

She urged Americans to 'get those screenings' and 'get whatever health checkup you should be getting.'

'And just be grateful to the people around you - it really puts things in perspective,' she added.

Klobuchar said that if even '10 more people go and get exams' after hearing about her diagnosis, then 'it will be worth it.'

Klobuchar also shared her story on Medium where she said she felt fortunate to have caught it early when the cancer was stage 1A - meaning it had not spread beyond the breast.

'I am so fortunate to have caught the cancer at an early enough stage and to not need chemotherapy or other extensive treatments, which unfortunately is not the case for so many others,' she wrote.

'Of course this has been scary at times, since cancer is the word all of us fear, but at this point my doctors believe that my chances of developing cancer again are no greater than the average person,' she wrote.

Klobuchar's announcement made no explicit statement on her future, but said the cancer 'gave me renewed purpose to my work.'

Klobuchar is pictured with President Joe Biden shaking hands with Chief Robert Contee III of the DC Metropolitan Police Department and Vice President Kamala Harris in the Rose Garden of the White House on August 5

'Like often happens with anyone dealing with illness, this experience gave me time to reflect on my own life and those I love,' she wrote.

'It also gave me renewed purpose to my work. I have immense gratitude for my family, friends, colleagues, and the people of Minnesota, and I know that each day is a gift.'

For Democrats, Klobuchar's health update was a fresh reminder of their fragile hold on the Senate, which they control by a single vote.

Klobuchar is early in her third term. She was first elected in 2006 and easily won reelection twice against little-known opponents.

She ran for president in 2020 but eventually dropped out before the Democratic convention.

She long cultivated an image as a Democrat willing to work across the aisle with Republicans, an effort the GOP and some progressives often dismissed as built on smaller issues.

More recently, she has chaired the congressional committee looking into the January 6 Capitol riot.
Hackers have been gathering data from the United Nations' internal system since April, using an employee's stolen login credentials that have been sold on the dark web for as little as $1,000.

The combination of username and password was sold by multiple Russian-speaking cybercriminals as late as July, but the identity of the hackers and their explicit purpose is still unknown.

The credentials offer access to the organization's project management software Umoja. The entry point provides valuable insight into government and humanitarian work across the globe.

The UN, which is in constant contact with high-powered nations and companies, has been targeted by state-directed hackers before, but everyday cybercriminals are now going after large companies and organizations with the goal of selling access to highly coveted information.

Hackers gathered data from the United Nations through the organization's project management software Umoja. Above, UN headquarters in New York City

A login was offered for as little as $1,000 by multiple Russian-speaking cybercriminals on the dark web, according to one cybersecurity expert. The purpose of the hack is unknown

Hackers gained access to the UN system on April 5 and were still active in the network a month ago, according to Bloomberg.

'Organizations like the UN are a high-value target for cyber espionage activity,' said Gene Yoo, the CEO of Resecurity, a cybersecurity firm that says it discovered the breach.

'The actor conducted the intrusion with the goal of compromising large numbers of users within the UN network for further long-term intelligence gathering.'

Yoo told DailyMail.com that his firm alerted the UN about a breach in July after 'monitoring' the Dark Web.

The UN responded that the hackers had only taken screenshots, but when the firm alerted them to stolen data, the organization stopped talking to them, Resecurity says.

On Thursday, a UN spokesman said the organization was aware of the hack before Resecurity told them about it. He also said the UN has detected even more breaches.



'This attack had been detected before we were notified by the company cited in the Bloomberg article, and corrective actions to mitigate the impact of the breach had already been planned and were being implemented,' UN spokesman Farhan Haq wrote in an email shared with DailyMail.com.

'At that time, we thanked the company for sharing information related to the incident and confirmed the breach to them.

'The United Nations is frequently targeted by cyberattacks, including sustained campaigns. We can also confirm that further attacks have been detected and are being responded to, that are linked to the earlier breach.'

In 2018, Dutch and British law enforcement stopped Russian hackers from gaining access to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, which frequently cooperates with the United Nations.

The organization was investigating the March 2018 poisoning of Sergei and Yulia Skripal, a Russian double-agent for British intelligence and his daughter, who was in England at the time. The attack left them both critically ill.

Colonial Pipeline paid more than $4 million in ransom to a hacker group that stopped their services in May until they got paid. More than half of the ransom was eventually recovered

Close to 50 million former, prospective and current T-Mobile customers had their IDs and social security numbers exposed in a huge breach revealed in August

In April, four Russians were caught with spying equipment at a hotel next to the OPCW, according to Reuters.

In October, the US Department of Justice indicted seven Russian intelligence (GRU) officers, four of whom allegedly took part in the planned hack. In 2020, the DOJ charged six hackers from the GRU for that and other breaches, including an attempt to disrupt the 2017 elections in France.

In 2019, dozens of UN servers were breached by unknown actors, including some at the UN human rights office, which collects sensitive data and has often been a lightning rod of criticism from autocratic governments for exposing rights abuses, according to the Associated Press.

'Traditionally, organizations like the United Nations have been targeted by nation state actors, but as cybercriminals are finding ways to more effectively monetize stolen data and as access to these organizations is more frequently available for sale by initial access brokers, we expect to see them increasingly targeted and infiltrated by cybercriminals,' Allan Liska, a senior threat analyst at Recorded Future, told Bloomberg about the latest breach.

The UN credentials were being sold in combination with dozens of usernames and passwords to various organizations for just $1,000, said Mark Arena, chief executive officer of security-intelligence firm Intel 471, in an interview with Bloomberg.

The credentials were marketed by multiple Russian-speaking cybercriminals, he said.

'Since the start of 2021 we've seen multiple financially motivated cybercriminals selling access to the Umoja system run by the United Nations,' Arena said.

'These actors were selling a broad range of compromised credentials from a multitude of organizations at the same time. In a number of previous occasions, we've seen compromised credentials being sold to other cybercriminals, who have undertaken follow up intrusion activity within these organizations.'

Cybercriminals have targeted large operations before, sometimes holding their networks hostage for money.

In June, the Justice Department announced it had seized more than half of the $4.4 million ransom payment to DarkSide hackers.

The group interrupted access to Colonial Pipeline's systems on May 7 until it was paid, triggering fuel shortages and panic buying at the pump.

Last month, T-Mobile announced that close to 50 million current, former and prospective US customers had their names, social security numbers, and IDs stolen by a 'bad actor' who snaked into the company's system and allegedly posted the data for sale on an 'underground forum.'

Motherboard reported that a hacker was selling a subset of the data with 30 million customers' Social Security numbers and drivers' licenses for six Bitcoin, or $270,000.
President Joe Biden will require all of the roughly 2.1 million federal workers to be vaccinated as part of a series of new mandates he'll push in a major speech on the COVID pandemic Thursday.

There will be limited exceptions but any federal employee who refuses the shot can be fired, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday.

Federal employees and contractors will have 75 days to get vaccinated.

The executive order will not include an option of being regularly tested to opt out of the vaccine requirement. The orders will apply to workers in the executive branch but not the congressional or judicial.

'There will be limited exceptions for legally recognized reasons disability or religious objections,' Psaki said. Anyone who 'fails to comply, they will go through the standard HR process, which includes counseling and face disciplinary action,' she added.

She confirmed that action could include termination of employment.

'Hopefully it won't come to that,' she said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said any federal employee who doesn't get vaccinated can be fired

President Joe Biden greets labor union members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on Labor Day

She said the administration wanted the federal government to serve as an example for other businesses and organizations when it comes to vaccines.

'Obviously the federal workforce is one of the largest in the country and we would like to be a model to what we think other businesses, organizations should do,' she noted. 'The expectation is that if you want to work with federal government or be a contractor, you need to be vaccinated unless you are eligible for one of the exemptions.'

Republican Congressman Rob Wittman of Virginia, who has federal workers in his district, said he objected to the forced vaccines.

'Although I have personally been vaccinated and regularly encourage those I represent to get vaccinated as well, I fundamentally disagree with forcibly injecting America's public servants,' he told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'Our government was founded to secure the individual liberties of all. We should instead continue educating the public that the COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective. Resorting to forced vaccinations, and returning to unnecessary restrictions, only serves to eliminate critically important vaccination incentives and undermine public confidence in the vaccines' efficacy,' he added.

The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest union of federal workers, said they would bargain over the order.

'Workers deserve a voice in their working conditions,' the group said in a statement. 'Neither of these positions has changed. We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so.'

And the National Federation of Federal Employees, another government workers union, said they didn't receive advance notice of the executive order.

Psaki dismissed questions about the unions not being consulted. The Biden White House has bragged about its pro-union stance. At a Labor Day event on Wednesday, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said President Biden told him: 'This is labor's house.'

'We have a range of consultation with labor unions, and that has been the case for several weeks and months as we have worked to implement additional steps,' Psaki said.

'But our objective here is to continue to save lives.'

The president is putting more pressure on states, businesses and schools to get people vaccinated as the Delta variant causes the case rate to continue to rise in the United States.

But Republican-led states including Texas and Florida have pushed back and are in the process of trying to ban the orders being imposed.

Psaki indicated in interviews on Thursday morning that more mandates were coming.

'What we've seen work over the past couple months are mandates, requirements, making it so workers in the federal government or others have to get vaccinated. We've seen it work and we've seen it become more popular,' Psaki said on MSNBC's Morning Joe.

'He's going to speak directly to vaccinated people and their frustrations and he wants them to hear how we're going to build on what we've done to date to get the virus under control,' she said.

The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs already mandate vaccines for their employees. The military also has issued a vaccine mandate.

President Joe Biden will require all federal workers to be vaccinated, a part of a series of new mandates he'll push in a major speech on the COVID pandemic

White House press secretary Jen Psaki indicated in interviews on Thursday morning that more mandates were coming

There have now been more than 40 million cases of COVID recorded among Americans, which is nearly one-fifth of the global total of cases.

Biden, in his remarks scheduled for 5 p.m. ET time, will address six areas where his administration can push for more Americans to get vaccinated: that includes new plans to get more people vaccinated, enhancing protection for those who already have had shots, keeping schools open, increasing testing and mask-wearing, protecting the economic recovery and improving healthcare.

The president will also urge business to implement strict vaccine requirements. Major corporations like WalMart, McDonalds and Disney require high-level employees, such as managers or white-collar workers, to get vaccinated. Most hospitals and universities require the vaccine. On Thursday the Los Angeles school district also said they would require it.

President Biden and administration officials have repeatedly emphasized the best way for life to return to normal is for people to get vaccinated.

Biden also plans to call for a global summit, to be held during the U.N. General Assembly later this month, to respond to the pandemic and talk about how to get more vaccine supply to the developing world.

About 27 per cent of the eligible U.S. population age 12 and older have not received any COVID vaccine, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meanwhile about 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated.

In December 2020, after he was elected but before he took office, Biden said he didn't think COVID vaccines were necessary.

'I will do everything in my power as president to encourage people to do the right thing and when they do it, demonstrate that it matters,' he said at the time.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Fauci said this week Americans are getting infected with COVID at 10 times the rate needed to end the pandemic.

'We're still in pandemic mode, because we have 160,000 new infections a day,' Fauci told Axios. 'That's not even modestly good control.'

'In a country of our size, you can't be hanging around and having 100,000 infections a day,' he continued. 'You've got to get well below 10,000 before you start feeling comfortable.'

About 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated

The vaccination rate among Americans has increased since July, which is when the Delta variant caused case rates to spike, but it remains low in Southern states like Florida and Texas.

Biden will also address the divide between the vaccinated and unvaccinated.

'He also will acknowledge the fact that the 175 million people who are vaccinated out there, many of them are frustrated. They want to go back to normal. Of course they do. That's going to require moving more unvaccinated people to a vaccinated status. That's what he'll talk about,' Psaki told CNN on Thursday morning.

In his remarks, Biden also will seek to return his focus to the COVID pandemic, resetting the narrative after the difficult evacuation of Americans from Afghanistan and from Democratic in-fighting on Capitol Hill over his $3.5 trillion budget filled with social programs.

The Biden administration has already taken steps to try and stop Republican-led states from rolling back COVID mandates.

Last month, the Education Department announced a civil rights investigations into five states that banned schools from imposing mask mandates, claiming their stance could discriminate against students with disabilities or health problems.

Education chiefs in Iowa, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah have been told they are under investigation.

'It's simply unacceptable that state leaders are putting politics over the health and education of the students they took an oath to serve,' said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.

'The department will fight to protect every student's right to access in-person learning safely.'
Hiring is still low across the nation as the U.S. reports only 235,000 new jobs in August after adding more than a million in June and July

The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 310,000, a new pandemic low and a sign that the surge of COVID-19 cases caused by the Delta variant has yet to lead to widespread layoffs.

Thursdays report from the U.S. Department of Labor showed that jobless claims dropped by 35,000 from a revised total of 345,000 the week before.

The number of applications has continued to fall steadily since peaking at 900,000 in early January.

U.S. unemployment claims fell by 35,000 this week to a total of 310,000, according to the DOL

New jobless claims (top) and continuing claims (bottom) are seen in the past 12 months and prior year

But the spread of the Delta variant this summer has put renewed pressure on the economy and the job market.

On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve reported that U.S. economic activity "downshifted" in July and August, in part because of a pullback in dining out, travel and tourism related to concerns about the Delta variant.

The U.S. reported more than 109,000 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday and about 1,020 new deaths, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

The numbers show a decline in new cases after the Delta surge appeared to peak at more than 180,000 new daily infections being reported in August.

And last week, the government reported that hiring slowed dramatically in August, with employers adding just 235,000 jobs after having added roughly a million in both June and July.

Hiring plummeted in industries that require face-to-face contact with the public, notably restaurants, hotels and retail.

Restaurants and bars cut 42,000 jobs in August, after the hospitality and food services industry as a whole added 115,000 jobs in July, according to a report from the Labor Department's Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey.

Hotels added just 7,000, the fewest since February.

Still, some jobs were added in other areas, and the unemployment rate actually dropped to 5.2% from 5.4%.

Sudy Gervais (right) talks with Lee Kessler, the owner of the Barracuda Taphouse & Grill at a job fair featuring local businesses in the Coconut Grove neighborhood of Miami on September 8

The U.S. enjoyed a short hiring boom in June and July, but things have slowed down since August. Pictured, two women walking past a hiring sign in Arlington, Virginia, in August

President Joe Biden shared an optimistic view of the numbers during a news conference last Friday.

'What we're seeing is an economic recovery that is durable and strong. The Biden plan is working, we're getting results,' he said at the White House Friday morning.

But he admitted the Delta variant was why the Friday report 'wasn't stronger.'

This week, more than eight million people lost all their unemployment benefits with the expiration of two federal programs that covered gig workers and people who had been jobless for more than six months.

Those emergency programs had been created in March 2020, when the pandemic first tore through the economy.

An additional two million people have lost a $300-a-week federal supplement to state unemployment benefits that expired this week. Some business owners had complained that the federal supplement made it harder to fill open jobs.

Those pleas led governors in about 25 states to cancel the $300 payment early and to shut off the two emergency programs in most of those states as well.

But academic research has found that so far, the early cut-offs in jobless benefits have led to only a small increase in hiring in those states.

Many economists express concern that the cut-off will lead to financial hardship because the resurgence of the pandemic will make it harder for some of the unemployed to find work.

After previous recessions, emergency expansions of jobless aid ended at a time when far fewer people were still receiving benefits.
A measles case has been detected during a 'robust health screening process' of the nearly 9,000 Afghan evacuees coming into a Wisconsin Army base.

Everyone who was in contact with the infected person at Fort McCoy 'has been isolated, and post-exposure prophylaxis and inoculations are in process,' an internal government email viewed by Fox News said.

But the measles is a 'highly contagious' virus that The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says can affect 90 percent of people who were in close proximity to the infected person and are not immune.

Afghan passengers board a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III during the Afghanistan evacuation at Kabul airport on August 22

Families evacuated from Kabul, Afghanistan, walk through the terminal before boarding a bus after they arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport on September 3

At least one case of measles was detected among Afghan evacuees in a Wisconsin Army base

There are about 9,000 Afghan evacuees in Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, which has the capacity to hold up to 13,000

TONIGHT: I joined @TuckerCarlson to discuss what I learned on my visit to Fort McCoy last Friday.



   pic.twitter.com/ERKK8kEJIL  Rep. Tom Tiffany (@RepTiffany) August 31, 2021

The measles virus is spread through an infected person's cough or sneeze and can live for up to two hours in an airspace after the sick person leaves an area, according to the CDC.

Measles cases are rare in the U.S. but much more common in Afghanistan, which the CDC says has the seventh highest number of cases in the world. By contrast there have been just two cases this year and 13 cases last year - because of vaccines and immunities.

As of September 3, there were just under 9,000 Afghan evacuees in Fort McCoy, which has the capacity to hold up to 13,000.

The internal email that Fox News reviewed said the Army base wasn't receiving evacuees 'at this time' while it secures vaccines and treatments.

But a Task Force McCoy spokesperson told Fox News that the base will continue to receive evacuees.

DailyMail.com left a message for the Fort McCoy press office for more information.

Of the 65,000 Afghans evacuated since August 17, about 24,000 are coming into the United States

In total, the U.S. evacuated more than 65,000 Afghans since August 17, according numbers provided by the Pentagon last Wednesday

So far, the measles case in Fort McCoy is the only reported case, but there are fears of an outbreak as more people from Afghanistan, which has the seventh highest amount of measles cases in the world, enter the U.S.

In total, the U.S. evacuated more than 65,000 Afghans since August 17, according to Pentagon data released last week, and 24,000 have come into the U.S.

The other 41,000 Afghan evacuees were brought to U.S. military bases in Europe and Asia.

To date, there haven't been other reports of measles in military bases that are welcoming Afghan evacuees, but this adds another layer of health risks on top of COVID-19.

The New York Times reported in early September that an six Afghan refugees on an August 29 flight into Washington Dulles International Airport tested positive for coronavirus.

During their screenings, Afghan evacuees are given the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal.
NYPD officers have been told they will be sent home without pay unless they get vaccinated against Covid or provide a weekly negative COVID-19 test which they have taken on their own time.

The new guidelines follow an executive order by Mayor Bill de Blasio about coronavirus protocols for city workers, in response to the surge of the highly contagious Delta variant.

The rules will go into effect on Monday, September 13.

Civilians and paid members of the NYPD who choose to remain unvaccinated will have to get a PCR or a rapid PCR test every seven days on their own time and upload results to an internal contact-tracing system.

Tests have to be done on a weekly basis while officers are off-duty, but the NYPD announced it will soon allow its workforce to get tested at 15 sites across the city at no charge, according to a memo.

At-home antigen tests will not be accepted by the department, under the new police policy.

'Members of the Service who fail to comply with this directive will not be permitted to work and will be ineligible to receive pay for each day of noncompliance,' the memo reads.

Unvaccinated NPYD officers have no other choice but to get vaccinated if they don't want to provide a weekly negative COVID-19 test on their own time or be sent home without pay

The guidelines come after data published late last month revealed that just 47 percent of the department's workforce  35,000 uniformed officers and nearly 18,000 civilian members  are fully vaccinated.

That is far lower than the wider New York City population, which has a 61 percent vaccination rate.

The NYPD has one of the worst vaccination rates among police departments in big cities across the country.

Other cities, including Los Angeles and Washington D.C., have more than half of their workforce vaccinated, while Honolulu remains the only city in the U.S. with three-quarters of its police department vaccinated.

The NYPD has one of the lowest vaccination rates - 47 percent - among other cities' police departments, falling behind Honolulu, Boston, Baltimore, D.C., Los Angeles and Detroit

Unvaccinated NYPD officers will also have to wear face masks.

As part of the new rules, a daily masking roll call will be held by supervisors to see which officers have to wear face coverings, according to a separate police memo sent out to supervisors.

The Police Benevolent Association, which represents 24,000 of the NYPD's 36,000 officers, told its members the new policies are 'contrary to our previous conversations with the Department.'

'In the PBA's view, any testing mandated by the Department must be conducted on job time and at the city's expense, and any test received outside of the MOS's regular working hours should be subject to overtime compensation,' PBA President Pat Lynch wrote Wednesday evening to cops in an email obtained by The Post.

The PBA will coordinate with the Board of Collective Bargaining to ensure unvaccinated officers don't pay out-of-pocket for tests, as it will ask them to take detailed notes of their testing time.

Other police unions, including the Sergeant's Benevolent Association, Captain's Endowment Association and the Lieutenants Benevolent Association, reiterated the PBA's statement and said they would pursue the same objective.

Mayor Bill de Blasio's (pictured) new order has caused outrage among several police union's, who are asking the city to pay for the tests of officers who choose to remain unvaccinated

Some police supervisors said they understand the move to try to increase the number of double-jabbed officers, but they also feel frustrated over the lack of clarity on whether first responders should get the vaccine in the first place.

'I don't want to have to ask a guy about their vaccination status because if I pull them off a detail and they lose overtime, they are going to accuse me of discrimination,' one police source, who is fully vaccinated, told the Post.

'These guys aren't going to sue (Police Commissioner Dermot) Shea, they are going to sue me and he's going to be out of here with a cushy City Hall gig or something,' the source added.

The NYPD put a stricter masking policy for unvaccinated cops into place in August, ordering officers without proof of vaccination on file to mask up at all times.

It came after an email was sent out by Commissioner Shea on August 20, mentioning that three members of the NYPD lost their lives to COVID 'bringing to 60 the total number of our uniformed and civilian coworkers and friends taken by the pandemic,' according to the Post.

The policy also requires officers to wear a mask when 'interacting with members of the public'  regardless of their vaccination status.

NYPD officers (pictured) will also have to wear masks, regardless of their vaccination status

But days later, Shea and other highly ranked policemen were seen disobeying the new rules in the latest example of the NYPD ignoring their own COVID-19 guidelines since the start of the pandemic.

Head of NYPD's Captains Endowment Association Chris Monahan, said, 'Any mandates from the City of New York requiring testing must be on job time.'

The CEA intends to file an improper practice if the policy does not change.' Louis Turco, president of the LBA, told the Post this 'is a mandatory subject of bargaining.'

'Neither the NYPD nor the City negotiated with us,' he said, adding that 'we are exploring all our option.'

New York City has reported 2103 cases of Covid within the last seven days on Thursday, amid a nationwide case surge fueled by the highly contagious delta variant.

The local death rate appears to be stabilizing at least a bit at less than ten deaths per day on September 9, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

At least 79 percent of New York state's population received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and nearly 69 percent received both doses. That's about 11,900,00 people out of a total population of nearly 19.5million, the CDC reported.

The number of U.S. infections per day in August and September have fluctuated with a recent spike as of September 9
QAnon supporters have been targeting a Chicago hospital with a coordinated campaign to force them to treat a patient with Ivermectin.

Veronica Wolski was hospitalized two weeks ago after contracting COVID-19 and demanded her doctor give her Ivermectin.

She was refused, according to social media posts by Wolski that were reviewed by Vice.

Wolski is known for posting anti-vaccine and QAnon conspiracies from a bridge in Chicago on social media.

Veronica Wolski was hospitalized two weeks ago after contracting COVID-19 and demanded her doctor give her ivermectin. which she was refused, according to social media posts

She is a patient at AMITA Resurrection Hospital in Northwest Chicago and the hospital has faced harassment, including floods of phone calls and in-person protests, for denying Wolski the Ivermectin.

Ivermectin is an FDA prescription used to treat certain infections caused by parasites. It is not authorized or approved by the FDA for prevention or treatment of COVID-19, and the FDA, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American Medical Association and the drug manufacturer have warned against using it to treat COVID-19.

The National Institutes of Health's COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines Panel also has determined there is insufficient data to recommend Ivermectin for treatment of any viral infections.

Wolski is known for posting anti-vaccine and QAnon conspiracies from a bridge in Chicago on social media

L. Lin Wood, one of the attorneys who filed lawsuits in favor of former President Trumps claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election, is one of the people behind the movement

The group The People's Bridge sent out a flyer claiming a doctor who initially agreed to give Wolski Ivermectin backtracked because the hospital sided with public health experts and saying that Wolski had been hospitalized for two weeks with 'Covid pneumonia.'

L. Lin Wood, one of the attorneys who filed lawsuits in favor of former President Trumps claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election, is one of the people behind the movement, which claims Wolski has a legal right to try the prescription.

The campaign said supporters should use slogans like 'Ivermectin Now,' 'Feed Veronica' and 'CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY' at the protest.

Wood and former national security adviser Michale Flynn have posted on Telegram in support of Wolski's quest to be treated with Ivermectin

'He informed me that Ivermectin was not on the Amita protocol and [Wolski] would not receive it,' Wood said when he tried to contact the doctor, according to his own Telegram post. 'When I tried to respond, he was rude, talked over me, and hung up on me.'

She was also supported on Telegram by Michael Flynn, the former national security adviser to President Trump who often appears at QAnon events.

Both Flynn and Wood are banned from Twitter.

Calls for Ivermectin poisoning saw a 163% increase to a total of 1,143 throughout the U.S. this year, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers

Through a spokesperson, Amita Health didn't address the efforts.

'At AMITA Health, our first priority is the health and safety of our patients. Our physicians and clinicians follow the full guidance of the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration] and the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control] in the treatment of COVID-19,' Olga Solares said.

Though used in horses and barn animals, people can use Ivermectin to combat parasites and skin diseases, but not COVID-19.

Ivermectin can be used in humans, but in much smaller doses than what is used for animals. The anti-parasite drug has not been shown to be affective against COVID

Large doses of this drug, however, can cause serious harm to humans if ingested, doctors warned.

Calls for Ivermectin poisoning saw a 163% increase to a total of 1,143 throughout the U.S. this year, according to the American Association of Poison Control Centers.

At the end of August, there were a total of 459 calls regarding Ivermectin to poison control centers.

The FDA had urged people to stay away from the drug in a tweet last month, writing, 'You are not a horse. You are not a cow. Seriously, y'all. Stop it.'

The prescription has become subject for debate ever since podcast host Joe Rogan started using it to treat COVID-19 last week, claiming doctors had told him to do so.

The FDA has repeatedly warned Americans not to use Ivermectin to combat COVID-19
Two teenage Neo-Nazis who wanted to 'bomb London because it wasn't English' and ran an extremist right-wing group online were spared jail today

One 16-year-old boy set up the group, called The British Hand, which included a member who plotted a terror attack, it can now be revealed.

The teenager, referred to as Boy A and from south Derbyshire, ran the group from August 5 last year, when he was just 14, on the encrypted Telegram app.

He appeared for sentencing at Westminster Magistrates' Court alongside another 16-year-old boy - Boy B - who was a member of The British Hand and also accused of sharing terrorist propaganda.

The court heard previously that the teenagers went down a 'twisted rabbit hole' in the first lockdown when they spent a 'concerning' amount of time online being radicalised by other young extremists.

As the self-appointed 'commander' of his group, Boy A vetted others in private chat groups where they talked about 'doing something' against ethnic minorities, and discussed weapons, Westminster Magistrates' Court heard.

In one post, he wrote in capital letters: 'I am planning a(n) attack against the Dover coast where every Muslim and refugee has been given safe(t)y if your interested tell me now.'

A 16-year-old boy who set up an extremist group which included a member who plotted a terror attack has been spared custody today after admitting a string or terror offences

One member of the group, Matthew Cronjager, was found guilty at the Old Bailey last week of plotting a terror attack after the court heard he wanted to shoot an Asian friend over boasts that he slept with 'white chicks'.

The 18-year-old neo-Nazi, from Ingatestone in Essex, tried to get hold of a 3D printed gun or a sawn-off shotgun to kill his teenage target, whom he likened to a 'cockroach'.

Prosecutor Alistair Richardson said Cronjager is facing a jail sentence in 'double figures' after being convicted of preparing for acts of terrorism and disseminating terrorist publications on Telegram, having previously admitted four charges of possessing terror documents.

Matthew Cronjager was found guilty at the Old Bailey last week of plotting a terror attack

The cases can be linked for the first time after reporting restrictions were lifted on Thursday by Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring as he sentenced the 16-year-old.

The youngster, who cannot be identified because of his age, pleaded guilty in June to possessing a terrorist publication, disseminating a terrorist publication, and encouraging terrorism, in August and September last year.

Mr Goldspring handed him a two-year youth referral order and a three-year criminal behaviour order after saying he had served the equivalent of more than 18 months in custody while on remand.

He said the facts of the case 'give rise to genuine concerns about' the boy but added that a short custodial sentence would 'serve little or no purpose' and 'would be purely punitive'.

He told the boy: 'I can't emphasise how close you came to a further period of custody. Until last night I was going to do so.

'I changed my sentencing reasons at about 11pm last night - that is how close you came.'

The boy received a caution in September 2019 for sending pictures of bombs to a fellow school pupil over Snapchat.

The teenage boys who cannot be named were sentenced at Westminster Magistrates' Court

He has previous convictions for a hate crime, after threatening to blow up a mosque on January 20 last year, and assaulting an emergency worker, by attacking a police officer who went to his home.

The court heard that he also made a string of phone calls to mosques across London and was twice referred to the Government's Prevent de-radicalisation programme.

He downloaded a video of the Christchurch mosque attacks in New Zealand, in which gunman Brenton Tarrant shot and killed 51 people, and saved an image of a 'leader board' of right-wing terrorists, including the number of people they had killed.

After he was first arrested in September last year, he boasted of being the leader of The British Hand and admitted he was a terrorist, saying: 'We need something like the IRA.'

Mark Luckett, defending, previously said the teenager has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, saying: 'It is clear at some point he had been manipulated.

'The offences occurred during the first national lockdown. (He) appears to have spent a concerning amount of time online, which has unfortunately led him down a twisted rabbit hole.'

Sentencing: Boy A received a two-year youth referral order and a three-year criminal behaviour order while Boy B was handed a 12-month youth referral order at a hearing today

At a previous hearing the boy said he wanted to go to university to study veterinary medicine or zoology, adding: 'I don't hold those views and I don't know how I got to hold those views. That's not the person I am.

'I spent a lot of time in my bedroom doing nothing. I think I need to be a normal child again.'

The second 16-year-old boy, from Kent, who was a member of the Telegram chat group, admitted disseminating a banned terrorist publication called the White Resistance Manual by sending an electronic link in August which allowed others to access it.

He was handed a 12-month youth referral order by Mr Goldspring, who said he did not want to interrupt his education.

'You have a bright future, I have seen your GCSE results,' he said.

'You didn't encourage anyone to carry out acts of terrorism and there is no evidence you planned to do so. You had a subordinate role to (the other boy).'

The teenager had earlier told the judge: 'I'm really sorry. I will never touch that aspect of belief in my life and I will stop anyone I can from even trying to touch it.'

EXCLUSIVE: Number of children arrested for terror offences hits a record high since records began nearly 20 years ago

By Katie Feehan for MailOnline

The number of children arrested in relation to terrorism offences has reached its highest level since records began nearly 20 years ago.

The spike has prompted Counter Terrorism Policing to urge parents, friends and family to play their part in stopping the rise of young people radicalised by extremist content.

The Home Office's quarterly release of statistics revealed there were a total of 181 arrests for terrorism-related activity in the year ending June 31.

Of those 181 arrests, 24 were children under the age of 18, a record high of more than 13 per cent of all arrests, and the largest number of children arrested in relation to terrorism offences since the Home Office started recording these statistics in 2002.

Counter Terrorism Police say under 18s was the only age-group to show an increase in the latest data, which showed an overall decline in the number of terror-related arrests.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon, said: 'We are again having to appeal to parents, friends and family to play their part in protecting their loved ones against radicalisation, following another concerning proportion of young people being arrested by our officers in the last 12 months.

'It is thought that these increases are being driven largely by the sharp rise in young people arrested in relation to online extreme right wing terrorism (ERWT) activity.

'For the last year, we have warned about the impact that Covid-19 may have been having on the most vulnerable in our society, particularly children and those with mental health issues, as a result of a 'perfect storm' of factors which is making them more vulnerable to extremist influence.

'But while arrests and convictions may protect society from harm, they do nothing to reverse the worrying trends we are seeing  the only way to do that is to stop people from being radicalised in the first place.'

The overall number of people arrested in relation to terrorist activity has fallen significantly as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, because Counter Terrorism Police say they frequently use non-terrorism legislation to make arrests and disrupt terrorist activity, and the lockdown period has presented fewer opportunities for officers to do that.

The Home Office's statistics show there were a total of 181 arrests for terrorism-related activity in the last 12 months to June which marks a reduction of 49 - or 21 per cent fewer than in the previous 12-month period and the lowest annual total since 2011.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Dean Haydon (pictured) has urged friends and family to play their part in the preventing their loved ones from being radicalised online by extremists

The force says research shows parents, family members and friends are the first to see the changes in behaviour which might indicate that a loved one is being radicalised.

But analysis from 2019/2020 data shows just 2 per cent of people helped through Prevent come to the programme because of concerns raised by those who know them best.

'It doesn't have to be this way,' added DAC Haydon.

'We can help children move away from this dangerous path, but the earlier we catch it, the better chance we have of helping them in the long term.

'Asking for help is a difficult and emotional step, but we must see it for what it is  action which won't ruin their lives but may well save them.'

If you are worried that someone you know is being radicalised, visit www.actearly.uk

For help and advice visit www.actearly.uk, or call the national Police Prevent Advice Line on 0800 011 3764, in confidence, and specially trained Prevent officers will listen carefully to your concerns.
A convicted murderer freed less than a year ago after serving 19 years in prison was executed in broad daylight by a hitman disguised as a Hasidic Jew as the former gang member climbed into his car in Queens.

Shocking surveillance footage captured the moment Jermaine Dixon, 46, was ambushed and shot dead by the unidentified killer who was wearing a traditional rekel - a long, black coat - and a wide brim black hat, in the video obtained MailOnline.com.

The gunman had his trunk, hood and car door open before hunching under the hood as Dixon approached his own car, according the video.

Once Dixon turned his back on the man to open the door of his car, the hitman ran across the street and shot the former 'Patio Crew' gang member in the back of the head, the video showed.

Jermaine Dixon, 46, can be seen walking to his car (top middle in light colored clothing) as the shooter looks under his hood (dressed in black) before he ambushed and shot Dixon as he was getting into his car in South Ozone Park, Queens, New York

Dixon can be seen through the tree limbs unresponsively slumped in the front seat of his car as the shooter runs back to his vehicle

Dixon's body was slumped in the front seat as the man ran back to his car, slammed the hood down and drove away from the scene.

Cops discovered the slain victim around 8 a.m. on South Conduit Avenue in South Ozone Park and Dixon was pronounced dead at the scene.

The NYPD described the killer as a dark-skinned man last seen wearing all black and a mask.



Dixon had only been out of prison for less than a year before he was executed, the New York Daily News reported.

A former member of the Brooklyn 'Patio Crew', named for a Flatbush restaurant where the gang hung out, Dixon served nearly two decades in prison for the 1992 murder of Alphonso Gooden and drug charges, records show.

His brother, Emile Dixon, was also convicted for killing Gooden and is serving a life sentence.

Court documents show that a deal to cooperate with the feds fell apart after prosecutors discovered Dixon was the triggerman in Gooden's murder, the Daily News reported.

Dixon, described as a 'good guy' by mourning family members, became a model prisoner and his life sentence was reduced to a 30 years.

He pursued a bachelor's degree in business and filed for compassionate release, where he took responsibility for his actions and asked for a chance to prove himself, the Daily News reported.

'It is clear that I am not the young man that your honor sentenced 20 years ago,' Dixon wrote to Judge Raymond Dearie. 'I am now asking your honor to again take a chance with me and let me re-enter society to prove to myself, my mother, children, family and also the court that I can and will do the right thing upon release...I blame no one but myself for the road I chose that put me in my current situation. '

His plea was convincing and Dearie said he was compelled to give Dixon a 'chance.'

'Do I leave Mr. Dixon to the authorities and require him to serve out the sentence he deserves, or do I grant him a somewhat accelerated release in the hope that for himself and his family he will continue on a road to a respectable and productive life?' Dearie wrote. 'I choose the latter. I choose to take a chance.'

Body of shooting victim Jermaine Dixon is wheeled away after EMTs pronounced he was dead at the scene

Police cordon off scene of fatal shooting where a gunman faked car trouble before executing his victim while dressed in traditional clothing worn by Hasidic Jews

Police gather near the crime scene after finding the victim dead in his car

Dearie added that Dixon's decision to lie to investigators was done out of family loyalty and reflected well on his character.

'That poor, indeed catastrophic decision was no doubt prompted in the main by his repeated concern for his own brother who faced capital offenses and by his unwillingness to testify against him,' Dearie wrote. 'The government was certainly justified in its reaction, but at the same time Mr. Dixon's efforts to protect his older brother are understandable and similarly reflect a decent side to his character.'

Cops said they have no motive or why Dixon was targeted.

No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing, police said.

The NYPD are looking for a man last seen dressed in all black with a mask and dark skinned
Republicans celebrated on Thursday as Joe Biden withdrew his nomination for David Chipman to head the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

GOP lawmakers and politicians, as well as gun rights advocacy groups, lauded the move to block a so-called 'gun-grabber' from rising to a position where they felt he could attack the Second Amendment.

'David Chipman is an unhinged gun-grabber,' Arkansas Republican Senator Tom Cotton tweeted on Thursday. 'His defeat is a win for the Constitutionand a crushing loss for Joe Biden.'

Texas Representative Chip Roy told DailyMail.com: 'President Biden should have never nominated anti-gun David Chipman for ATF Director, and I'm pleased to see reports that his nomination will be withdrawn.'

'His confirmation would have jeopardized the constitutional rights of every legal firearm owner in America, and his anti-Second Amendment beliefs make him completely unfit to serve in any kind of leadership position anywhere in this administration,' Roy added. 'The right to keep and bear arms in self-defense is a human right enshrined in our Constitution; those who enforce our laws need to understand that.'

Chipman has faced a slew of bipartisan criticism since his nomination earlier this year and has received backlash, in particular, in relation to his gun control advocacy.

In announcing the withdrawn nomination, the White House released in a statement Thursday that Chipman 'would have been an exemplary Director of the ATF and would have redoubled its efforts to crack down on illegal firearms traffickers and help keep our communities safe from gun violence.'

They went on to blame Republicans for the failed nomination, despite members of both parties opposing his appointment.

Joe Biden is preparing this week to withdraw David Chipman as the nominee to head the ATF

Republican Senator Tom Cotton called the withdraw a 'win for the Constitution' and 'crushing loss for Joe Biden'

FULL WH STATEMENT WITHDRAWING DAVID CHIPMAN'S ATF NOMINATION David Chipman spent 25 years in distinguished service to our country as an ATF agent. Hes a gun owner himself, and someone who has the backing of law enforcement groups. And, hes spent most of last decade as a leading voice for commonsense gun violence prevention legislation that will save lives. He would have been an exemplary Director of the ATF and would have redoubled its efforts to crack down on illegal firearms traffickers and help keep our communities safe from gun violence. Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress have made clear that they intend to use gun crime as a political talking point instead of taking serious steps to address it. Thats why theyve moved in lockstep to block David Chipmans confirmation, and its why they side with gun manufacturers over the overwhelming majority of the American people in opposing commonsense measures like universal background checks. They even unanimously opposed the Rescue Plan, which has given cities and states $350 billion that they can use to put more cops on the beat so that they can really know the neighborhoods they patrol, and invest in proven community anti-violence programs  among other uses. While my administration has worked to strengthen law enforcement and crack down on gun crime, Republicans have opposed us at every turn. We knew this wouldnt be easy  theres only been one Senate-confirmed ATF Director in the Bureaus history  but I have spent my entire career working to combat the scourge of gun violence, and I remain deeply committed to that work. Since taking office, my Administration has taken numerous steps to combat gun violence, and well continue to use every tool at our disposal to fight gun violence and keep Americans safe. I am grateful for Mr. Chipmans service and for his work. Advertisement

'Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress have made clear that they intend to use gun crime as a political talking point instead of taking serious steps to address it,' the statement read. 'That's why they've moved in lockstep to block David Chipman's confirmation, and it's why they side with gun manufacturers over the overwhelming majority of the American people in opposing commonsense measures like universal background checks.'

Republicans immediately lauded the withdrawal as a win for America and a loss for what they call Biden's anti-gun agenda.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared to take credit for Biden's change of heart on Chipman.

'Glad to hear reports the White House is taking my advice and pulling the terrible nomination of David Chipman,' the Kentucky Republican tweeted before the announcement was official. 'Absurd that a vocal opponent of Americans' constitutional rights was ever picked to run ATF. This is a win for the Second Amendment and law-abiding American citizens.'

Arizona Republican Representative Andy Biggs tweeted: 'Radical anti-gun nominee for the ATF David Chipman has been stopped. This is why we fight!'

Representative Byron Donalds of Florida, however, was a bit less optimistic about the impending withdrawal of Chipman's nomination.

'While I am pleased that the White House withdrew the nomination of anti-Second Amendment radical David Chipman for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), I have little hope that the next Biden nominee will be any better,' he told DailyMail.com.

'The administration has already made their position clear on the Constitution of the United States, stating that 'no amendment is absolute,' he added. 'With this as the doctrine, I am more than confident that the next AFT nominee will be a sellout for the anti-gun lobby and pursue an agenda that makes it harder for law-abiding citizens to obtain their constitutional rights to keep and bear arms.'

GOP Rep. Dan Bishop of North Carolina also told DailyMail.com: 'David Chipman wanted to trash Americans Second Amendment liberties. Its good news that the White House is withdrawing Chipmans nomination to lead the ATF, but the reality is that he should have never been nominated in the first place.'

Chipman worked at ATF for more than 20 years. He now works as a senior policy advisor at Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, a role that has, in part, led to the widespread opposition to his confirmation.

The center is led by former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords who resigned after she was shot in the head in an assassination attempt outside of Tucson during an event with constituents in January 2011.

'This is why we fight!' Arizona Republican Representative Andy Biggs tweeted

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell appeared to take credit for the withdrawn nomination, tweeted he was 'glad to hear' Biden 'is taking my advice and pulling the terrible nomination of David Chipman'

Biden's nomination of Chipman, a gun control advocate, was likely part of a larger effort to curb the rise in gun violence in the U.S.

A series of missteps have also helped lead Chipman's nomination off course  including failing to disclose to Congress an interview he did with Chinese state run media that was potentially used as propaganda to cover up a mass stabbing of children in China's Henan Province.

He was also slammed by Republicans when he botched the definition of assault rifle and dodged questions during a confirmation hearing about whether he would investigate and take action against Hunter Biden 'lying' on his background check to obtain a firearm.

'Good News,' Kentucky Representative Thomas Massie posted on Thursday of the withdrawn nomination. 'He NEVER should have been nominated.'

Tennessee Republican Congresswoman Rep. Diana Harshbarger also said: 'This is great news for gun owners and a great victory for the Second Amendment!'

'Gun grabber' appeared to be the insult of choice among Republicans when describing Chipman.

'David Chipman is a gun grabber who doesn't respect the Constitution that he would have been sworn to uphold and protect,' Michigan Representative Lisa McClain told DailyMail.com. 'The ATF should never be led by a gun control advocate.'

'I'm thrilled the Biden Administration is withdrawing his nomination, and our Second Amendment rights are protected for now,' she added. 'I urge President Biden to nominate someone who is truly tough on actual crimes to lead the ATF.'

Montana Senator Steve Daines said: 'I've been opposed to Chipman leading the ATF from the start. He's an anti-2nd Amendment, gun-grabbing radical that should not lead the agency that regulates firearms.'

Some gave former President Donald Trump's son Don Jr. credit for crushing Chipman's nomination

Trump Jr.'s spokesperson Andrew Surabian said he ahd 'helped lead the fight against Chipman and got results'

Representative Jim Banks said allies like Don Jr. helped 'stop this radical, anti-gun activist from leading the ATF'

'Glad to see @JoeBiden listen to my request & pull this nominee. I'll always fight to protect MTns' #2A rights,' he said.

Some gave credit to former President Donald Trump's eldest son Donald Trump Jr. for the defeat of Chipman's nomination.

'I was proud to lead 68 of my colleagues in the fight against Chipman's nomination earlier this year,' Representative Jim Banks tweeted.

He added: 'The efforts from second amendment allies like @DonaldJTrumpJr to stop this radical, anti-gun activist from leading the ATF were very consequential!'

Don Jr. adviser and spokesman Andrew Surabian tweeted, 'Don Jr. helped lead the fight against Chipman and got results.'

'We defeated this anti-2A gun grabber and we'll defeat all of Biden's attempts to restrict our Second Amendment rights!' Trump Jr. tweeted in response to the report.
A top travel boss has predicted Australians will be flying to London by November, despite still not being allowed on a three hour flight from Sydney to Queensland.

Graham Turner, chief executive of Flight Centre, said mainland Europe, Fiji, Canada, the United States and Singapore could also be on the cards before Christmas.

It comes as the Prime Minister announced vaccination passports could be in the hand's of holiday-hungry fully-vaccinated Australians in just few months time when vaccination rates are due to hit 80 per cent.

But in a bizarre battle of the borders it appears Sydneysiders could travel overseas before they enter the Sunshine State or Western Australia, which remains\ tightly shut to NSW.

A top travel boss has predicted Australians will be flying to London by November (pictured, a woman in London on Westminster Bridge)

Graham Turner, chief executive of Flight Centre, said mainland Europe, Fiji, Canada, the United States and Singapore could also be on the cards before Christmas (pictured, woman in Italy)

Destinations tipped for international travel Australians can expect to travel to these countries: London in November 2021 Mainland Europe, Canada, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, Fiji and the United States before Christmas 2021 Flights to countries with low vaccination rates: Bali, Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City and Johannesburg will not restart until April 2022 Advertisement

Mr Turner predicted the first international holiday available will the UK some time in November, the Daily Telegraph reported.

Australia is considered a 'green list' country by the United Kingdom, meaning visitors do not have to quarantine on arrival.

Instead, tourists are required to have been Covid-tested in the three days before arriving in Britain and again on their second day in the country.

Mr Turner said he expects Queensland and other parts of the country to have a tougher time acclimatising with the rest of the world.

'NSW has nothing to lose,' the chief executive said.

'They've got the infection. It doesn't matter that they bring in more.'

The optimistic travel chief said travellers would likely only be required to quarantine for two to five days on their return to Australia when international travel resumes - and it could even be at home.

It comes as Prime Minister Scott Morrison said self-isolation at home would become the 'primary and viable method' for quarantine.

Australia is considered a 'green list' country by the United Kingdom meaning visitors do not have to quarantine on arrival (pictured, a woman in Canada, another destination which could be on the cards by the end of the year for the fully-vaccinated)

Digital vaccine certificates confirming double-dose Covid jabs already exist, but the data, including the brand of vaccine, could also be added to the built-in chips in existing biometric passports (pictured)

The NSW Premier on Thursday announced the details of the state's 'roadmap to freedom' (pictured) once 70 per cent of the adult population is vaccinated with pubs, restaurants, shops, gyms and swimming pools opening up

It is believed expats may be permitted to home quarantine if they are fully vaccinated with a jab approved by the country's medical regulator.

The federal government has also cleared a plan for Covid vaccine passports for launch with international immunisation passports to be rolled out in October.

The NSW Premier on Thursday announced the details of the state's 'roadmap to freedom' once 70 per cent of the adult population is vaccinated with pubs, restaurants, shops, gyms and swimming pools opening up.

Major Australian airline Qantas last week announced its plans to gradually bring back overseas flights once 80 per cent of the Australian population was fully vaccinated.

Qantas said it expected the country to reach that target in December - triggering the re-opening of international borders as part of 'Phase C' of the federal government's path to pandemic normality.

The first available travel routes will be to first-world destinations with high vaccination rates including the United States, Canada, the UK, Singapore, Japan and New Zealand, Qantas told the Australian Securities Exchange.

Major Australian airline Qantas last week announced its plans to gradually bring back overseas flights once 80 per cent of the Australian population was fully vaccinated (pictured, Qantas aircrafts at Kingsford Smith Airport in August)

(pictured, a nurse administers a dose of the Pfizer vaccine)

The airline said flights to cities in Asia and South Africa with low vaccination rates and high Covid-19 case numbers would not restart until at least April 2022.

Those developing world destinations include Bali, Jakarta, Manila, Bangkok, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City and Johannesburg.

Qantas said it also plans to restart flights between Australia and New Zealand from mid-December 2021 as long as the trans-Tasman bubble had re-opened by that date.

The airline has predicted Victoria will be the first state to open its borders to NSW from early December, while hardline Western Australia will be the last.

It comes as Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced Australians are just weeks away from getting vaccine passports that proves they have received two jabs.

The first available travel routes will be to first-world destinations with high vaccination rates including the United States, Canada, the UK, Singapore, Japan and New Zealand (pictured, a woman in Italy)

Mr Morrison said the passports were key to the next stage of the national plan when Australia's lockdown borders - both internal and external - will finally be re-opened.

The document will be accepted internationally so when Australians are finally allowed to go overseas again, they can travel freely.

Australians returning from overseas, with more than 30,000 still stranded by flight caps, can also use the vaccine passport to enter home isolation upon return instead of hotel quarantine.

Digital vaccine certificates confirming double-dose Covid jabs already exist, but the data, including the brand of vaccine, could also be added to the built-in chips in existing biometric passports.

Meanwhile, NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro has announced intrastate travel will resume once 80 per cent of eligible residents are fully vaccinated.

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro has announced intrastate travel will resume once 80 per cent of eligible residents are fully vaccinated (pictured, passengers in Sydney Airport)

Mr Morrison said vaccine passports were key to the next stage of the national plan when Australia's lockdown borders - both internal and external - will finally be re-opened (pictured, Qantas flight crew in Brisbane Airport)

The earmarked date to reach the target is the end of October or early November, at which point Sydneysiders who have received both doses of a Covid jab will be allowed to travel freely through the state with a special travel permit.

The travel permit will be accessed on the Service NSW app, with the deputy premier warning the document will be essential for movement throughout the state.

Caravan parks and camping grounds will also be allowed to receive visitors - giving cooped-up Aussies ample excuse for a road-trip.

However Australians who prefer luxury cruises have been warned they will be waiting a little longer with no plan in place to restart the industry.

Cruise Lines International Association managing director Joel Katz revealed that travellers would be better off flying to the United States or Singapore to board a cruise on current timelines.
US Customs and Border Protection officials are looking into reports of alleged forced marriages between much older men and young girls whose families were desperate to have them escape the Taliban, according to a new report revealed Thursday.

Those young girls told officials at a transit site in Abu Dhabi that they 'have been raped by older men they were forced to marry in order to escape Afghanistan,' the damning report obtained by Yahoo News and dated September 5 states.

'US officials are looking into reports that in the frantic evacuation of desperate Afghans from Kabul, older men were admitted together with young girls they claimed as "brides" or otherwise sexually abused,' the leaked paper states.

It also notes reports of 'purported child brides' being brought to Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, where Afghan refugees are meant to end up after a thorough vetting process overseas.

'The reality is, overseas the vetting process sucks,' an official familiar with the troubling reports told Yahoo News. 'There's minimal vetting.'

'So now we have a 60-year-old guy with a 12-year-old girl saying, "Thats my wife."'

Three Afghan evacuees look thorough women's pants at a donation facility run by US soldiers and civilians at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin. Fort McCoy was one of the places were child brides in coerced marriages were reported

Families evacuated from Kabul, Afghanistan, walk through the terminal before boarding a bus after they arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia on September 3. All refugees enter the country through Dulles before heading to military bases across the US

Evacuees from Afghanistan arrive at Emirates Humanitarian City in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on August 28. The memo from September 5 states Afghan girls told US officials there they had been raped by older men they were forced to marry to escape the Taliban

The US military wrapped its withdrawal from Afghanistan by President Biden's deadline with 124,000 rescued, mostly vulnerable Afghans.

But the government is on to the next challenge of processing and vetting those people for entry into the US. Reports of inhumane condition and overcrowding surfaced in some areas.

Federal officials blamed those on bottlenecks, partially because of delays in making sure everybody was thoroughly checked.

Press Secretary Jen Psaki said at her daily White House briefing on September 1, 'I can absolutely assure you that no one is coming into the United States of America who has not been through a thorough screening and background check process.'

But the scathing report surfaced today casts doubt on the process.

The official familiar with the report admitted it was 'not a small number' nor are they regarded as 'legitimate marriages' in the eyes of the United States.

'Is there nefarious intent? Are these girls being rescued, or are they brought here for more nefarious purposes? We are just not sure,' the official said.

The legal age to marry was 16 under Afghanistan's previous government, but as the report notes, 'child marriage is not uncommon' in the country.

These marriages are indicative of the sheer level of desperation these families are willing to consider 'helping loved ones escape the Taliban,' the report states.

CBP looking into reports of child brides in Abu Dhabi and Wisconsin is just the latest blow to Biden's handling of the crisis.

It was revealed Wednesday that the administration is allowing Afghan children to stay with the adult they arrived with in the United States - to avoid unaccompanied minors going into custody.

CNN reported Wednesday that the Department of Health and Human Services put out guidance over the weekend that laid out ways to avoid Afghan children being separated from caregivers.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken meets with an Afghan refugee family at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday. The Biden administration will let evacuated children stay with the adults they arrived in the US with

The report comes after the Associated Press reported last week that a number of Afghan men entered the U.S. with child 'brides,' with officials seeking guidance on how to handle this dynamic.

'Intake staff at Fort McCoy reported multiple cases of minor females who presented as "married" to adult Afghan men, as well as polygamous families,' a document obtained by the AP warned. 'Department of State has requested urgent guidance.'

The AP reported that there was no immediate indication from the military, the Department of Homeland Security or HHS that such guidance was received.

Typically, minors who don't arrive with their parents - even if they come to the U.S. with an aunt, uncle or sibling - are put into HHS custody until a 'sponsor' is deemed worthy.

In the case of Afghan refugees, the Office of Refugee Resettlement - which is part of HHS - is allowing the children to stay with the adults they arrived with, even if they're not the kids' parents, CNN said.

Afghan refugees sit on the floor and stand around as they wait for processing inside Hangar 5 at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday

HHS did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's inquiry on how they're handling the issue of the child 'brides.'

Last week, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said 'very few Afghan children' are arriving with adults who they don't know.

More than 100 have arrived in the U.S. unaccompanied, an administration official told CNN, though a majority have been quickly reunited with family members.

'Unaccompanied minors represent only one quarter of one per cent of the share of Afghan arrivals,' an HHS spokesperson told CNN. 'We will continue to work with our government partners to provide care for all the children referred to us.'

Antony Blinken met with Afghan refugees at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday as the administration continues to deal with the bungled troop withdrawal that is now leading to the displacement of thousands of Afghans.

The Secretary of State showed a picture of his children to a young Afghan refugee outside Hangar 5 for evacuation operations at Ramstein Air Base.

The State Department is facing criticism after it was revealed in an email link that the agency prevented several private flights from leaving Afghanistan with U.S. citizens and Afghan allies on board.

The trip to Germany came after Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with leaders in Doha, Qatar, which is acting as another third-party country for Afghan refugee processing before they are resettled in the U.S.

Blinken was also pictured there touring a base in Doha being used as a processing center with hundreds of cots lining the floor of a building.

Also on Wednesday, Blinken met with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas as the two counterparts discussed cooperation in efforts to process and resettle Afghan refugees. The two will hold a virtual 20-nation meeting on the crisis from the southwestern German U.S. Air Base.

The images out of Ramstein on Wednesday show a number of refugees sitting on the floor as they wait to be processed. Many are unaware of their final resettlement destinations, but are expected to come through the Philadelphia and Washington Dulles airports.

Blinken said on Tuesday that Afghan refugees will be vetted on the 'back end,' as he claims the withdrawal was too swift and chaotic to vet all Afghan refugees before they were airlifted out.

The administration still insists there are around 100 Americans left to be evacuated, while volunteer groups leading private evacuation efforts and Republicans claim there are more like 500 U.S. citizens still trying to get out.

Six planes chartered to evacuate Americans and allies from Afghanistan were blocked from leaving by the Taliban, it emerged over the weekend.

Afghan refugees are captured arriving at Washington Dulls International Airport last week. New Health and Human Services guidance is instructing officials to keep Afghan children with the adults they entered the U.S. with

The State Department also refused to green light privately chartered flights out of Afghanistan that could have evacuated US citizens and Afghan special immigrant visa applicants, leaked emails reportedly show.

Military lawyer and retired Marine Eric Montalvo shared the communications with Fox after he organized some of the flights and now claims the federal government thwarted his rescue effort.

The leaked emails show State officials refusing to allow Montalvo's privately paid for flights to use US property either inside the country or at one of its many overseas bases, after the Biden administration pledged to do whatever it can to rescue all Americans and as many Afghan allies as possible.

'No independent charters are allowed' at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar,' an email from September 1 says.

'In fact, no charters are allowed to land at an [sic] DoD base and most if not all countries in the Middle Eastern region, with the exception of perhaps Saudi Arabia will allow charters to land.'
Donald Trump's White House ordered the Pentagon to delay and minimize reports of brain injuries to U.S. troops in a missile attack in Iraq last year, according to a former senior official.

The attack was launched by Iran in retaliation after the Trump administration ordered a drone strike to kill a senior Iranian general, Qassem Soleimani.

But Alyssa Farah, Department of Defense press secretary at the time, said the White House sought to avoid giving ammunition to critics who believed Trump had put Americans in harm's way with such a hastily conceived plan.

'There was an effort from the White House to want to say, you know, the Iranians were not successful in harming our targets,' Farah told a new podcast, One Decision, hosted by former CNN journalist Michelle Kosinski and the former head of Britains MI6 intelligence agency, Sir Richard Dearlove.

'And I think that went too far, and I think that it ended up glossing over what ended up being very significant injuries on US troops after the fact.'

Alyssa Farah said the Pentagon was told by the White House to play down injuries to U.S. troops after an Iranian missile strike caused 'traumatic brain injuries' in January last year

The Ain al-Asad military airbase housing US and other foreign troops in the western Iraqi province of Anbar was targeted by Iran in retaliation for the killing of Gen. Qassem Soleimani

President Trump ordered the strike on Soleimani despite reservations among officials that it would trigger further attacks on U.S. troops. Farah said she feared a 'massacre' as reports of the Iranian missile strikes emerged

Revolutionary Guards commander Qassim Soleimani (centre in 2016) was considered the second most powerful leader in Iran until his death in a drone strike last year

How US drone took out top Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Jan 2020 MQ-9 Reaper drone is seen in a file photo On January 3, 2020, an MQ-9 Reaper rained four Hellfire missiles on Soleimani's convoy at Baghdad International Airport. The head of the elite Quds Force, Soleimani was considered the second most powerful person of Iran, subordinate only to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. US officials believed Soleimani was the mastermind of attacks on American personnel in Iraq, and claimed he was plotting an imminent strike against the embassy there. The assassination of Soleimani was reportedly presented to Trump as the 'most extreme option' on a menu of responses to embassy attacks. Advertisement

More than 100 service members were eventually diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries after missiles hit a base housing U.S. troops in January, 2020.

Trump initially claimed there were no injuries and later said the injuries were nothing more than 'headaches.'

Farah, who later worked at the White House, said the Pentagon came under pressure to play down the injuries.

She said: 'We did get pushback from the White House of: Can you guys report this differently?'

They were told to delay injury reports, she said, which would have been used by critics.

'That certainly helped folks who were critics of the strike, you know say that it was it was a mistake and these are the repercussions of it,' she said.

Soleimani died on January 3, 2020, when Hellfire missiles hit his convoy at Baghdad airport.

He was the head of the elite Quds Force and considered the second most powerful person in Iran, after Supreme Leader Ali Khamanei.

U.S. officials believed he was responsible for building a network of proxy militias through the Middle East and was behind attacks on American personnel in Iraq.

But the strike carried the U.S. and Iran to the brink of war. And critics said officials gave conflicting justifications for using a drone strike on a rival that could have triggered far greater bloodshed.

Farah described the attack as the 'heaviest several hours of my life.'

She said it felt as if the world was on

'There was a moment where the world thought we were on the brink of world war three,' she said.

'You saw massive demonstrations ... and escalatory rhetoric from the Iranian government, all of which we expected - that there was this period of fear of what the ... second and third order effects of that decision were.'

The most pressing worry, she said, was the impact on troops stationed in the region and elsewhere.

'There was a tremendous fear that it was going to be open season on US forces, everywhere around the globe,' she said, adding that many members of the public probably overestimated the level of protection afforded troops on foreign bases.

'My heart still goes out to the 110 who were severely injured but thank God we didn't have deaths because watching those in real time watching the strikes come in, I thought it could have been a massacre,' she said.

State Department officials were worried that the drone strike would impact diplomatic relations with Iraq, where the attack happened, and then there was the added complication of an unpredictable president.

'We're dealing with a White House where there were the challenges of knowing you're dealing with a president where you can have a precision strike, you can have the wording perfectly crafted, but he may go completely off script,' she said.
Amid a pronounced divide between liberal House Democrats and West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin over the size of President Biden's 'reconciliation' bill, House Majority Whip James C. Clyburn is calling $3.5 trillion a 'ceiling' with room for negotiation.

Clyburn, the number three party leader who was a key ally for Biden during the Democratic primaries, called the figure contained in the House and Senate-passed budget resolutions a 'ceiling'  a term that comports with how the budget process works.

The budget will only allow spending up to that amount to move in a special vehicle that gets protection from a Senate filibuster.

'Even a $3.5 trillion. it's just that  a ceiling,' Clyburn told CNN.

House Dem @WhipClyburn tells Jim @Acosta the $3.5 T figure for budget reconciliation is just a "celling" and not a "floor". Clyburn says there is $2T worth of negotiating room. Worth noting that progressives like @BernieSanders & @AOC have said $3.5 T is already a compromise. pic.twitter.com/JXZiVB73iA  Ryan Nobles (@ryanobles) September 8, 2021

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) called the $3.5 trillion the budget provides for a reconciliation bill a 'ceiling' and noted that $2 trillion lies between the ceiling and the $1 trilliong to $1.5 trillion Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) has called for

'No one has ever said that that's the exact number, or that's a floor. It's up to 3.5 trillion. Now I see that Joe Manchin has mentioned a $1.5 trillion number. Well somewhere between 1.5 and 3.5. There is $2 trillion,' he said.

Manchin penned an op-ed where he called for a 'strategic pause' on the key legislation, which includes key Biden priorities including paid leave, extending an expanded child tax credit, expansion of Medicare benefits, and other sweeping measures.

His office indicated that he would accept a total price tag of between $1 trillion and $1.5 trillion.

Progressive House Democrats had pushed for more spending in a package leaders are calling 'transformative' for the US economy. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) had earlier pushed for a $6 trillion package.

Said Clyburn: 'Those $2 trillion are there. And I think that there is a lot of room for people to sit down and negotiate. It may be. And you're sitting around the table, you may not need 3.5 trillion to do what the president wants done and what the country needs done.'

Clyburn made his comments on CNN amid a Democratic clash over the size of a budget reconciliation package

Powerhouse Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted for the budget resolution, but called for a 'strategic pause' over the $3.5 trillion package barreling through Congress

The Biden White House wants to bundle an array of top programs in the mammoth bill to get around Senate filibusters

Ways and Means chairman Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) called new paid leave provisions 'one of the most profoundly important pieces of this entire package'

Top Republican on the committee Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas) used his opening remarks Thursday to complain that the 'The mightiest nation on earth just surrendered to terrorists' in Afghanistan

The after making his comments to CNN on the numbers, he said: 'But let's work on it and stay out of all of this negotiating in the media. That's not the way to negotiate. Let's keep this around the table and see what we can come up with.'

Clyburn's comments came as the House Ways & Means Committee began marking up its version of the proposal, as part of the legislative process of designing of what ultimately heads to House floor.

Panel chairman Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) began with the paid leave provisions. 'This is one of the most profoundly important pieces of this entire package,' he said. The bill provides for three months of parental leave, caregiving leave, or leave for a 'serious medical condition.'

'We will make historic investments in clean energy,' he said, while promising, while extending the 'tremendously impactful' extension of the expanded child tax credit, a major feature of the previous $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package.

Top Republican on the committee Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas) used his opening remarks Thursday to complain that the 'The mightiest nation on earth just surrendered to terrorists' in Afghanistan.

Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) countered that it was former President Donald Trump who negotiated with the Taliban and consented to the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners.

Brady accused Democrats of 'ramming through trillions of wasteful spending and crippling tax hikes,' and said the bill would 'put the IRS in charge of your sick leave.'

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) called it a 'left wing spending orgy' with a 'cradle to grave entitlement system.'
Police were called to a town council meeting which descended into chaos and insult throwing while being live-streamed on YouTube.

The incredible scenes transformed the usually dull Downham Market proceedings in Norfolk into an online shouting match and looked set to go viral, just as the disastrous lockdown Zoom meeting at Handforth Parish Council in Cheshire did in April.

Residents stormed into the meeting room in the sleepy Norfolk town, accusing town clerk Elaine Oliver and the council of destroying the market.

The fireworks began about 20 minutes into the meeting, which only had socially-distanced seating for around 16 people, but several members of the public were left standing outside listening.

The incredible scenes transformed the usually dull Downham Market proceedings in Norfolk into an online shouting match and looked set to go viral, just as the disastrous lockdown Zoom meeting at Handforth Parish Council in Cheshire did in April

After shouting was heard outside the meeting, Mayor Jenny Groom told the audience: 'For the benefit of those people who are outside, please can you not communicate with...

'Here we are trying to, we're trying to conduct a proper meeting a proper professional meeting, you should be able to hear everything clearly and messing about and distracting counsellors is not helping the business of the Council.'

Then market stall holder Tony Leach asked a 'question' which turned into a statement, accusing the council of destroying the market by trying to turn it into a 'craft fair', listing the businesses which he claimed had been 'got rid of' by the council.

He said this was due to the council doubling rent on the market, a 'draconian rulebook' and accused them of taking away their freedom of speech.

After a while, Mr Leach was stopped from continuing and deputy mayor Jackie Westrop began to respond.

Town Clerk Elaine Oliver has been accused by Norfolk locals of destroying the town's market by turning it into a craft fair. She faced a barrage of verbal abuse during an unusally heated Downham Market council meeting, led by Mayor Jenny Groom

Residents stormed into the meeting room in the sleepy Norfolk town, accusing town clerk Elaine Oliver and the council of destroying the market

A man dressed in black appeared at an open window behind the Mayor and his presence seemed to her and Ms Oliver.

When the mayor Jenny Groom tried to respond to Mr Leach's accusations, a woman stormed into the room demanding they 'shut it down', while a man accused Ms Oliver of being a 'bully'.

The town clerk looked visibly shaken and was comforted by councillors. The live stream of the meeting was suspended for 25 minutes while the police were called.

At one point, Ms Oliver 'reminded' the woman who had intervened that she was 'a licence holder', which seemed to spark the accusation of bullying.

Mayor Jenny Groom and deputy mayor Jackie Westrop issued a statement afterwards saying there had been a 'deliberate attempt' to destabilise the meeting. They described the allegations as 'serious and inaccurate'.

Ms Groom and Ms Westrop said the man had been joined by others during 'his tirade.'

'This attack upon our clerk and the smooth running of the council meeting was supported loudly by several members of the public who were in attendance,' they said.

'Because of the aggressive nature of the attack the meeting not only had to be suspended but the police were called to intervene.

'Once the police arrived the council was able to resume the meeting, although time restrictions meant that some important business had to be deferred.'

Mayor Jenny Groom and deputy mayor Jackie Westrop issued a statement afterwards saying there had been a 'deliberate attempt' to destabilise the meeting. They described the allegations as 'serious and inaccurate'

The pair said they deplored the events, offering apologies to the people of Downham Market.

But the tumultuous proceedings seemed to create a new interest in local democracy with YouTube viewers, with more than 1,600 views in the first 24 hours, compared to an average of just over 300 for the previous five meetings.

The row was the culmination of two years of frustration by market stallholders over increased pitch rents and a new 'onerous' set of rules which traders must abide by, according to Mr Leach.

He accused the council of wanting to turn the traditional market into a 'craft fair' but insisted there was room for a range of stalls.

Later Mr Leach, 54, told MailOnline that he regretted the way the meeting had 'boiled over' and only wanted to sit down with the councillors and plead his case.

The stallholder who has been selling pet food and cards at Downham and other local markets for more than 30 years said he merely wanted to get his points across to the council that the Friday and Saturday market, which two years ago was full, was 'barely in existence now', with only around five pitches out of 13 full last weekend.

'They're destroying the market and it's not because of covid,' he said, 'I know all the traders who have left, and it's down to the ridiculous new rules the council have brought in and the fact they've doubled the rent for pitches. They even have a rule that you can't talk about the market on social media  they're infringing my human rights!'

He said he would welcome the chance to sit down and have a civilised discussion with the councillors, but claimed the way the town council runs its meetings had made that impossible.

'During lockdown the meetings were on Zoom, and if you asked anything awkward, they just muted you. Now, they won't let any of the public inside the council  only the councillors, and if you want to ask a question, it has to be emailed in advance.

'The other night there were about 20 of us, including several shopkeepers who had market stalls, outside the meeting and I was allowed to ask my question, but then told it was too long. Then Becky who works at the greengrocers' stall started shouting, the councillors started shouting and I did too, and it just got out of hand.

'I didn't want that to happen, and I'd much rather sit down with them for a proper discussion, but they make it so difficult to speak to them.'

He said he and other stallholders were frustrated by other actions the council took during the pandemic, such as waiting more than a month after the government gave permissions for open-air markets to open before doing so, and not allowing stalls selling food to open at all during the lockdown.

A council spokesman said: 'Police were called at 7.37pm on Tuesday 7 September 2021 to a report of people shouting and being abusive at a public meeting at Jubilee Community Centre.

'Officers attended and established that no offences had been committed. No arrests were made. No complaints made by anyone at the meeting.'

Norfolk police said officers attended the Jubliee Community Centre, after a report 'of people shouting and being abusive at a public meeting' and established that no offences were committed and no complaints were made by anyone at the meeting.

It comes after the now infamous meeting of the Handforth Parish Council's Planning and Environment Committee in Cheshire last year which saw clerk Jackie Weaver shoot to internet stardom.

The 7.30pm zoom meeting on December 10 became a viral sensation in February after it was uploaded to YouTube - where it has since garnered more than 3.3 million hits.

A sleepy parish council meeting in Handforth, Cheshire turned into chaos as furious councillors traded insults and the chairman was blocked from the video call meeting. Pictured: Jackie Weaver, who threw chairman Brian Tolver out of the meeting

It followed a previous meeting of the committee at 7pm, just half an hour earlier, which saw chair Brian Tolver removed.

In the hilarious video recap, the second meeting begins with one of the councillors mumbling 'f**k off' under his breath.

Mr Tolver refuses to acknowledge the legitimacy of both meetings, before uttering his now-famous line: 'You have no authority here Jackie Weaver, NO AUTHORITY AT ALL!'', and telling her to 'stop talking.'

Mr Tolver then returns with a new username, labelling himself as the 'clerk'.

Mrs Weaver tells the meeting: 'The chairman simply declared himself 'clerk' and notified everybody of the case.

'There is no way of stopping him from calling himself clerk. Please refer to me as Britney Spears from now on.'

But after more shouting from Mr Tolver, Mrs Weaver removes him from the call and places him in a virtual waiting room.

His supporters, including Vice-chair Aled Brewerton, begin shouting at Mrs Weaver, demanding she 'read the standing orders', adding: 'Read them and understand them!'

Weaver, Cheshire Association of Local Councils, clashes with chairman Brian Tolver who claims he was chucked out of an earlier meeting by her and refuses to accept the meeting's legitimacy. He is later thrown out again for telling Weaver to 'stop talking'

The meeting on December 10 is attended by several other councillors (clockwise from top left: Susan Moore, Barry Burkill who is also thrown out, John Smith who takes over as chairman, and Cynthia Samson)

The row took place during a meeting of Handforth Parish Council, the parish authority for the village of Handforth in Cheshire

Mrs Weaver attempts to get a new chairman elected to lead the meeting  but Cllr Barry Burkhill assures her 'you don't know what you're talking about'.

The video sees councillor Susan Moore call for civility, pleading: 'Can I ask you to be respectful to Jackie Weaver please,' prompting belly laughs from the stalls.

Mrs Weaver then removes both Cllr Brewerton and Cllr Burkhill, placing them in the waiting room with Mr Tolver.

Those who hadn't left meeting vote to refuse the three men back in - with Cllr Cynthia Samson likening one to a 'laughing hyena'.

Cllr John Smith is eventually elected chairman and the meeting begins. 'Welcome to Handforth,' he says, wearily.

Mrs Weaver (pictured) has since written a book after finding fame from the viral clip, entitled: 'You DO have the authority here!'

The small town of Handforth in Cheshire, close to Manchester Airport, is known for its gigantic M&S and its quiet suburban streets - but many residents now know that its parish council is split by infighting and a battle for power

'It's nothing if not lively,' Mrs Weaver responds.

The hilarious clips of the meeting were viewed thousands of times on Twitter, with people creating memes of Jackie Weaver removing councillors and jokes about standing orders.

TV presenter Richard Osman tweeted at the time: 'Am busily writing Jackie Weaver into the next Thursday Murder Club novel.'

'Jackie Weaver could sort Spurs out,' opined actor Stephen Mangan

Broadcaster Ayesha Hazarika joked: 'After days of rowing about patriotism & flags, can we agree that Jackie Weaver & that zoom makes us proud to be British.'

Mrs Weaver has since written a book after finding fame from the viral clip, entitled: 'You DO have the authority here!'

A description on Amazon says: 'For every woman who has endured that I-know-what's-best-for-you tone, this is the book for you.

'The feminist political icon we didn't know we needed, the indomitable Jackie Weaver shares her own standing orders for life.'
Walk into the office past a row of swastika flags, with a quick Sieg Heil salute to the portrait of the late Fuhrer Adolf Hitler before jumping in the lift.

Without the bravery and leadership of the greatest Briton to ever live, that's a routine that millions of us in the UK  a bleak Nazi-occupied German colony  might well be following today.

No Prime Minister or Western leader in recent history has come close to the lasting positive impact Sir Winston Churchill had on all our lives.

But as part of the regressive wokery currently sweeping the world, the campaign to demean Churchill has now reached the very organisation meant to protect his unquestionable legacy.

Did Churchill have some racist, sexist, homophobic and other unsavoury views that were widespread among men born in 1874? Without doubt  and I'm not trying to deny that.

But he was the ultimate anti-fascist who played a significant role in preventing the extermination of Jews and every other minority Hitler was intending to literally wipe from the face of the earth.

So I am boiling with rage today at news the one woman who should be fighting against the loony left's bid to piss on the reputation of Churchill is the person attempting to cancel him.

I am boiling with rage today at news the one woman who should be fighting against the loony left's bid to piss on the reputation of Churchill is the person attempting to cancel him. Pictured: Sir Winston and Julia Weston, the chief executive of the re-named Churchill Fellowship

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust has been re-named the Churchill Fellowship, with all pictures of the great man removed from its website and the addition of a number of notes about the former PM's 'unacceptable' views.

This was the brainchild of Julie Weston, the charity's 100,000-a-year chief executive.

This madness is playing into the hands of the loony left, like the idiots who defaced the Churchill statue in Parliament Square with graffiti saying 'is a racist' during the febrile Black Lives Matter protests last summer.

This morning, after the news was first revealed, Weston attempted some unconvincing damage control.

Churchill's photo was reinstated on the website and she claimed the name change was because it was 'confusing' and nothing to do with wanting to 'disown' Winston's work.

But that makes absolutely no sense.

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust is immediately synonymous with the wartime leader, while The Churchill Fellowship could well be confused with the omnipresent insurance company that regularly advertises on TV.

What makes it obvious that Weston is a woketopian is that, as she announced these changes, she also revealed the charity would start to focus on 'addressing inequality and protecting the environment'. Er, why? There are multiple other charitable organisations that already do that.

This charity was set up immediately after Churchill's death in 1965 to fund academic research, using funding mainly from a grateful public determined to properly recognise the towering historic figure.

Those donations, which were invested, continue to fund the charity today, alongside donations and legacies from wills.

The original Winston Churchill Memorial Trust name was removed from the charity's website, as was a picture of the great man

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust is changing its name to the Churchill Fellowship (pictured) as part of a rebrand

It was the charity's volunteers, who remain steadfastly loyal to Churchill and his legacy, who blew the whistle on the outrage.

One told The Sun: 'It beggars belief that the man who saved this nation in our darkest hour finds himself cancelled in this way.'

I have no doubt that's exactly what the left are attempting to do.

The BBC is, of course, part of the revisionist mob. They were forced to partially uphold a complaint about a News At Ten report that said Churchill's attitude towards the Bengal Famine, which killed three million in India during 1943, was racist without offering an alternative view.

In fact, many historians counter that Churchill did his absolute best to alleviate the famine at a time when food supplies across the world were scarce and he was engaged in trying to defeat Japan in the Pacific.

If we continue to woke-wash every white person from history because they were subjects of their time, then Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens and Shakespeare will be finished too.

Find me someone rich, powerful, talented or influential from 100 years ago who didn't have a questionable view.

That's the way societies evolve.

The new website has a page stating that the charity 'stands in solidarity with those in the fight against racism and with our Fellows from minoritised racial communities'. It added: 'Today there is controversy about aspects of Sir Winston's life. Many of his views on race are widely seen as unacceptable today, a view that we share'

Today the charity put up a new statement, with a picture of Sir Winston, praising him and denying they were cutting ties - although they will not be reverting back to the old name

Think about this from a personal perspective.

When you're gone, do you want to be judged by the biggest mistake you made  perhaps something you repented for during your life?

Or do you think human beings are fallible and their legacy should take into account their overall achievements and foibles? If we are to apply the latter judgement to Churchill, then he remains the most brilliant and important Briton without any question.

Yes, he was a man with flaws, a man who was very much a product of the era in which he grew up  but a man who saved the world from the tyranny of Nazism that allowed us to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

And that is all that really matters.
Stephanie Grisham is 'going for it' in her forthcoming memoir about her time serving in the Trump White House, telling all about working for Donald and Melania Trump  and expecting retaliation in return.

The news Grisham is writing about her time with the Trumps shocked the political world Thursday morning. Grisham, who served as Donald Trump's press secretary and Melania Trump's chief of staff, was seen as one of their most loyal aides, who had been with Trump since the early days of his underdog presidential campaign.

'She is going for it, telling her truth, and letting the chips fall where they may,' a source close to the publication told DailyMail.com. 'She knows all the skeletons that are in various closets and she's opening doors. But she also has been warned that the Trumps are going to strike back hard.'

The source declined to give specific details but noted: 'She definitely has receipts.'

Her book  'I'll Take Your Questions Now: What I Saw in The Trump White House' - will be published Oct. 5 by Harper Collins.

Melania Trump's former chief of staff Stephanie Grisham will publish a memoir next month that will reportedly detail 'where the bodies are buried'. The book: 'I'll Take Your Questions Now: What I Saw in The Trump White House', will reveal 'surprising new scandals' from Trump's turbulent four years in office

Grisham was seen as Melania's enforcer and protector and was one of the few people who saw the former First Lady and Trump in their private residence

Grisham, 45, is the only person to have served as a top aide to not just Melania but also to Trump, where she was White House press secretary and communications director

Grisham kept a fairly low profile in the Trump White House, despite serving in the highly public position of White House press secretary. She was famous  and criticized - for never holding a press briefing.

She was also very close to Melania Trump. The two women would text often and Melania Trump brought Grisham back to the East Wing, keeping her in the Trump White House, after Mark Meadows had her pushed out as press secretary when he became chief of staff.

Grisham quit the White House in protest after the January 6th riot on Capitol Hill, where Trump supporters stormed the Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of Joe Biden's presidential win.

She's stayed quiet since then and there were no indications she would write about the Trumps, unlike former aides like Kellyanne Conway, who is also writing about the former president.

'She's kept a low profile deliberately since resigning from the White House. She wanted to process her experience and what it meant. Now she's looking at her experience from a distance and wants people to know what the Trump White House was really like, especially since he's considering a run again,' the publication source said.

Grisham began working in Trump's presidential campaign in 2015 as a press wrangler.

Grisham's book is the latest bombshell to be penned by a former Trump employee

She followed the Trumps to the White House, joining Melania in the East Wing to over see her communications From June 2019 through April 2020, Grisham served as White House press secretary, before moving back to the East Wing as Melania's chief of staff.

A former West Wing colleague of Grisham's told Axios, which first reported the book's release: 'When I heard this, all I could think about was Stephanie surrounded by a lake of gasoline, striking a match with a grin on her face'.

Grisham, 45, is the only person to have served as a top aide to not just Melania but also to Trump, where she was White House press secretary and communications director.

Her 'top secret' memoir was kept under wraps until its news broke with just a month to go until the release.

A source close to the publishers told Axios: 'Grisham knows where all the bodies are buried because she buried a lot of them herself'.

Grisham supposedly 'has receipts...she was a press person and it was her job to make sure she knew what was happening'.

Grisham's time as press secretary in the White House was marked by few on-camera press briefings.

She was forced out by White House chief of staff Mark Meadows in April last year and returned to the East Wing.

In her resignation statement, which she released 14 days before the end of the Trump administration, Grisham said: 'It has been an honor to serve the country in the White House.

'I am very proud to have been a part of Mrs Trump's mission to help children everywhere, and proud of the many accomplishments of this Administration'.

Previous books by Melania's aides have been among the most caustic to emerge from the Trump administration.

They include Stephanie Winston Wolkoff who was a close friend of the former First Lady and served as an unofficial advisor until February 2018 when she quit.

Winston Wolkoff, a Manhattan fashion and society party planner, secretly recorded Melania saying 'give me a f***ing break' about separating migrant children from their mothers at the border.

Winston Wolkoff depicted Melania as obsessed with her image and claimed that she tried to ensure that Trump's daughter Ivanka did not appear in photos of her father's inauguration.

In her book, 'Melania & Me: The Rise and Fall of My Friendship with the First Lady', which became a New York Times bestseller, Winston Wolkoff claimed that Melania didn't want to use the same shower and toilet as her predecessor, Michelle Obama.

Melania blasted Winston Wolkoff's book in a blog post in which she said it was a desperate 'attempt to be relevant'.

Melania claimed that the book was 'not only wildly self-aggrandizing, it's just not truthful'.

Melania's former best friend and aide Stephanie Winston Wolkoff wrote Melania & Me: The Rise and Fall of My Friendship with the First Lady', which became a New York Times bestseller. Winston Wolkoff claimed that Melania didn't want to use the same shower and toilet as her predecessor, Michelle Obama

Former National Security Advisor John Bolton's book titled The Room Where It Happened, has sold more than a million copies since it was released last summer. Bolton was reportedly paid a $2million advance for his book

Those comments earned a rebuke from a source close to Winston Wolkoff who laughed them off in an interview with DailyMail.com.

The insider said: 'Stephanie was the only person who cared about Melania and the role of the future first lady. If Stephanie wasn't there, Melania wouldn't have been a priority or kept in the loop.

'When Stephanie was Melania's top advisor, she tried to support and protect her especially from Ivanka and her ongoing attempts to undermine the First Lady. Those first months in the White House were exactly as Stephanie described in her book, just miserable'.

A source close to the publishers said: 'Grisham knows where all the bodies are buried because she buried a lot of them herself'

Other exposes of the Trump administration have been arguably more unflattering.

In 'Rage', Washington Post journalist Bob Woodward claimed that Trump's aides tried to restrain his impulses by literally swiping documents off his Oval Office desk to stop him signing them.

The former President's former top economic adviser, Gary Cohn, 'stole' one letter because he thought it was a threat to national security.

The document was to formally withdraw the United States from a trade agreement with South Korea.

Cohn told one associate: 'I wouldn't let him see it. He's never going to see that document. Got to protect the country'.

Cohn later claimed that Trump did not even notice that it was missing.

In 'Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House', Michael Wolff claimed that Trump was so mentally incapacitated he was not capable of executive functions.

The book described him as 'semi-literate', claimed that his attention span was as short as that of a toddler and that even Ivanka treated him like a baby.

Trump responded by Tweeting that he was a 'very stable genius', a comment which became the title of yet another damning expose about his Presidency.

Some media reports have been equally damaging to Trump, such as Axios obtaining leaked schedules of his daily routine which showed he turned up for work at 11am.

Trump supposedly came downstairs from his residence at the White House long after most people had already begun working.

He typically worked until 6pm but his days sometimes ended at 4pm - and he had regular breaks for 'executive time' in between.

The term 'executive time' was used for when Trump was upstairs in his residence Tweeting, watching cable TV - and venting his rage in phone calls to friends.
A shocking video shows a group diners in the patio of a trendy Los Angeles restaurant being robbed at gunpoint in broad daylight, the latest incident in a wave of violent crime that began with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The robbery happened just before 5pm Tuesday in the 7300 block of Melrose Avenue, a popular shopping and dining strip that runs between the neighborhoods of Beverly Hills and Silver Lake, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Police are investigating the incident caught on surveillance footage, which shows a man and two women sitting at a table covered in purses and shopping bags.

They appear relaxed, looking at their phones and chatting, when two masked men in hoodies suddenly crowd around them.

Police are investigating an armed robbery that appears to have taken place outside of La Creme Cafe in Melrose Avenue Tuesday afternoon

Two masked men pulled a gun on the dining trio and stole their purses and shopping bags

The incident took less than 20 seconds and was captured on surveillance video of the sidewalk

One of the women drops her phone in fear when one of them draws a handgun.

The gun-wielding criminal picks the phone up and stuffs it into a purse on the table, which he collects along with the rest of the group's belongings.

The other robber sifts through the male diner's pockets as he holds his hands up.

The incident took less than 20 seconds and appears to have taken place at European-style restaurant La Creme Cafe.

The restaurant did not immediately respond to calls and emails from DailyMail.com.

'Shocking,' nearby resident Asha Iyer told KABC.

'That's terrifying. I live in this neighborhood and hang out all the time. I had no idea that was happening.'

The incident appears to have taken place at La Creme Cafe, a European-style restaurant

There's been a string of violent crime this year in the buzzing Melrose Avenue, home to retailers like Urban Outfitters and various restaurants.

In February, there were reports of robberies of Rolex watches taken from people walking along the strip.

In March, three men pulled a gun on a couple walking after lunch and took the man's belongings, including a gold necklace, before fleeing in a car driven by a fourth suspect, according to KABC.

Last month, a store employee at Shoe Palace - just three blocks from the March robbery and seven blocks from Tuesday's robbery - was fatally shot after a dispute over a raffle.

Police later arrested a 16-year-old suspect, according to KABC.

Melrose Avenue, home to various shops and restaurants, has been the site of violence this year as violent crime rises in Los Angeles, primarily driven by an uptick in homicide

There were more than 350 murders in Los Angeles last year, a 38 percent increase from 2019, according to Los Angeles magazine.

'It's a puzzle,' David Abrams, a University of Pennsylvania law professor who runs the City Crime Stats website, told the magazine.

'I think a lot of people are trying to understand it. I haven't seen anything compelling that fully nails it.'

As of July 31, total crime in Los Angeles is up 2.3 percent compared to last year, according to data from the LA County Sheriff's Office.

The uptick is driven primarily by criminal homicide, which has seen a startling rise of 73 percent.

There were 178 cases of homicide in LA from January 1 to July 31, up from just 103 during the same time period last year.

This year, the city of angels is on track to record 437 murders, the most since 2006, according to LA magazine.

Robbery, on the other hand, is down 21 percent from last year.
A U.S.-brokered deal with the Taliban enabled 30 Americans to escape Afghanistan on Thursday aboard an international flight carrying 200 passengers from Kabul Airport to Qatar, the first such large-scale departure since U.S and foreign forces concluded their frantic withdrawal at the end of August.

The Taliban had allowed the Qatar Airways flight to depart for Doha amid a bumpy coordination effort between the U.S. and Afghanistan's new rulers, including a days-long standoff over charter planes at another airport that left dozens of passengers stranded.

A senior U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to brief the media, provided the number of Westerners on board and said that two very senior Taliban officials had helped facilitate the departure.

Americans, green card holders and other nationalities including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians were on the flight, the official said.

Irfan Popalzai, 12, among those boarding the flight with his mother and five brothers and sisters, said his family lives in Maryland.

'I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited (to leave),' the boy said before departing the country.

About 200 foreigners prepared to leave Kabul as the Taliban allowed international flights out of Afghanistan to resume. There were about 30 Americans at the scene

The foreign citizens would depart from Kabul Airport to Doha, Qatar on Thursday

Passangers were led onto the tarmac to begin boarding the Qatar Airways flight

This was the first large-scale departure flight since the final U.S. troops left on August 31

The Taliban were pressed to allow the departures by U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, said an official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity on Thursday.

Qatari special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani said the flight marked a historic day as the airport was now operational again under the Taliban's control.

'Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes,' al-Qahtani added, noting that another commercial flight would take off on Friday. 'Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.'

A foreign diplomat, likewise speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to brief the media, said another 200 foreigners, including Americans, would depart in the next couple of days.

A Qatari security personnel stands guard of the Qatar Airways aircraft in Kabul

The Taliban had allowed the flight to take off as it reopened the international airport

The flight took off from Kabul and will be heading towards Qatar's capital, Doha

The passengers will arrive in Qatar before making their respective trips back home

Planes chartered to carry people out of Afghanistan had been stuck at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, casting doubt on the Taliban's assurance that foreigners and Afghans would be allowed to leave the country.

Some organizers of the flights also said the State Department was not doing enough to facilitate their departure.

The criticism came after an email leak suggested that the agency prevented several private flights from leaving Afghanistan with U.S. citizens and Afghan allies on board.

Grounded planes are seen at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, where hundreds of evacuees have been stuck and unable to leave Afghanistan in a standoff between the US and Taliban

Taliban authorities have agreed to let 200 American civilians and third country nationals depart on charter flights from Kabul airport. The Kabul Airport is seen above

Blinken met with refugees at the U.S. Air Base in Ramstein, Germany on Wednesday as the State Department faces criticism after leaked emails show it refused to let privately chartered planes land at the Doha, Qatar U.S. military base, even if they have Americans on board

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday went on a charm offensive, saying the Taliban was to blame for the standoff and calling on the militants to allow the charter flights to depart from Afghanistan.

Blinken said the United States was doing everything in its power to get the flights off the ground, but the Taliban was not permitting the flights to depart.

'We've made clear to all parties, we've made clear to the Taliban that these charters need to be able to depart,' Blinken said at a press conference in Germany.

The remarks came as Blinken met with Afghan refugees at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany. He also met with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas as the two counterparts discussed cooperation in efforts to process and resettle Afghan refugees.

The two will hold a virtual 20-nation meeting on the crisis from the southwestern German U.S. Air Base.

The administration still insists there are only around 100 Americans left to be evacuated, while volunteer groups leading private evacuation efforts and Republicans claim there are more like 500 U.S. citizens still trying to get out.

Six planes chartered to evacuate Americans and allies from Afghanistan were blocked from leaving by the Taliban, it emerged over the weekend.

Blinken speaks to members of the US embassy and Mission Afghanistan in the Qatari capital Doha on Tuesday. Blinken blamed the Taliban for blocking charter flights

The de-facto ruler of Afghanistan, Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, is seen in a file photo

The State Department also refused to green light privately chartered flights out of Afghanistan that could have evacuated US citizens and Afghan special immigrant visa applicants, leaked emails reportedly show.

The Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the US since August 17 from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation formally known as Operation Allies Welcome.

DHS said in the latest updated released Wednesday that 17 percent of those arrivals are U.S. citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government there fell to the Taliban.

The remaining 83 percent are a mix of people. They include those with Special Immigrant Visas, for people who worked as interpreters or in some other capacity for the U.S. or NATO.

There are also other visa holders as well as applicants for visas who have not yet completed their processing. The remainder are various types of 'vulnerable' Afghans who would be threatened under the Taliban, such as women and human rights advocates.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through 'multi-layered' security vetting but he declined to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.
Five former and current American Express employees have claimed that the company is engaging in 'reverse discrimination' by singling out black people for promotion at the expense of other staff.

The staff told FOX News that company policy appeared to change after the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer last May.

The five who spoke out did not work in human resources, or provide any official documentation to support their allegations.

They claimed at first that CEO Stephen Squeri made politically-charged statements about the current events, and employees later had to undergo training sessions focused on 'microaggressions' and 'unconscious bias'.

The staff said they then started to see racial minorities promoted at a higher rate than white people.

'I wanted to move up really bad,' said one former employee, who is white.

'I did everything I was supposed to do in terms of trainings and extra work. I was on committees, going out of my way to be helpful, being a leader on team calls and national calls,' said the employee, who was not named. But 'I saw the writing on the wall: There's no way I can get promoted because of the color of my skin.'

He claimed it was reverse discrimination.

The company, though, has denied engaging in any type of discrimination.

The former and current employees said they had to undergo critical race theory trainings following Floyd's death. The company's headquarters in New York City are pictured

Former American Express employees claim that the culture of the company changed under CEO Stephen Squeri (pictured) following the death of George Floyd last year

In a statement to FOX, a spokesman said: 'American Express has a longstanding commitment to living our company values, which include fostering a diverse and inclusive culture where all colleagues feel welcome and heard and have equal opportunities to thrive regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity, age, religion, sexual orientation and nationality.

'Our diversity, equity and inclusion programs are singularly about upholding this commitment, and are not based on any specific theory, nor are they targeted to a specific group of employees.

'We have a high-achieving culture, and we are proud of our dedicated and highly engaged colleagues.

'Advancement within our company is based solely on individual business and leadership performance,' the spokesperson added. 'Any characterization of our company and culture to the contrary is just plain wrong.'

DailyMail.com has reached out to the company for further information.

Before the death of George Floyd in May 2020, the former employee said executives would give each of the employees advice on how to improve their performance to be promoted, but following Floyd's death, 'no longer did that matter, because all that matters now is the color of the candidate's skin.'

He said he would receive emails showing who was promoted within the company and 'nine times out of 10, it was a black person.'

'You're told: "If you work hard enough and you do the right things, you can move up in this company,"' he said. 'That's no longer the case at American Express. They're only promoting black people.'

'This is reverse discrimination against white people,' he claimed.

They claim that black employees are now being promoted at higher rates than white employees

Another employee, who is of mixed-race, agreed, saying: 'I do think that minorities are treated preferentially at American Express,' and noting how the company 'would not allow a director to make any hiring decisions unless there were enough black people in the candidate pool.'

He described one instance in which his supervisor told him: 'It would be advantageous and important for me to note that I am a minority when I apply for internal promotions.'

And a current employee, who is also of mixed race, said the company singles out black people for promotion 'first and foremost.'

'I would even go as far as saying that the probability of a white male getting a senior leadership position is very rare,' he said.

The employee said he has worked for the company for many years and 'values American Express as a company.

'But the company that I came to work for is no longer the company that I work for.'

He said the company now caters primarily black people and only 'spends a fraction of time on any other group,' a practice that makes employees who are not black 'feel small or unwelcome.

'When there's a diversity and inclusion push and it only includes one race, that's very diminishing for other races out there,' he said.

Neither of the mixed-race employees are part-black.

Some of the former employees say the company should not be engaging in 'woke' politics

A fourth former employee said he got the impression he would never be considered for promotion because he is white.

'Do I have evidence that states that I would not get promoted? No. But the feeling, the atmosphere, the culture makes you feel that way,' he said, noting that in the hiring process 'managers were told they could not hire people because they did not have a diverse enough candidate pool.'

He said he thought the move to discuss race after the death of George Floyd.

'I think they were headed down the right path, but then I think it just went off the rails quickly,' he said, claiming the constant messaging and critical race theory trainings created a negative atmosphere.

'Everyday it was something,' he said, adding: 'It's OK to address racial diversity two or three times - we need to be equal. But they brought it up every day.

'You could tell it was one-sided from the top, and they were telling us that's the way we should be thinking.'

And another former employee said the 'vast majority' of people he had seen hired and promoted 'have been black,' recalling a staff meeting in which Squeri went over the statistics of the company by race.

He recalled thinking: 'We don't really have that much of a diversity issue.'

But Squeri saw it differently and said: 'We have to do better.'

The employee argued that companies should not work to hit a racial benchmark - such as a certain percentage of employees who have to be black.

'At that point in time, you're not hiring the best fir for the position, you're hiring based on the skin color.'

He noted that he regrets leaving the company, but felt he had no other choice.

'I love American Express, I really do,' he said. 'It's a great brand, but they're going to destroy the brand.

'They have no business in the social justice "woke" arena,' he continued. 'They're there to make money. That's the only reason they're in business.

'If they go the way of the "woke,"' he said, 'they're going to lose a lot of business.'

Squeri, left, has previously come under fire for having his employees undergo critical race theory trainings. He is seen here in February 2018 with Debora L. Spar and Kenneth I. Chenault at the Winter Gala at Lincoln Center

Critical race theory: From obscure academic concept to front line of America's 'culture wars' Critical race theory (CRT) exploded to prominence in the spring as it started to appear in classrooms from kindergarten to Grade 12, leading to several bans including in Florida and Texas, however it has been taught in higher education for decades. It is an offshoot of the Marxist ideology Critical Theory, of Herbert Marcuse and Erich Fromm, which argued that there are power structures which 'enslave' the minds of the oppressed in society. CRT teaches that racism is not the result of nature or biology but that it is a social construct, an idea invented to exploit and control minorities. It argues racism is a structural problem in the United States, particularly towards black people, embedded in its institutions, legal system and even the Constitution. The theory has sparked a fierce nationwide debate in the wake of the Black Lives Matter protests around the country over the last year and the introduction of the 1619 Project. The 1619 Project, which was published by the New York Times in 2019 to mark 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived on American shores, reframes American history by 'placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of black Americans at the center of the US narrative'. The debate surrounding critical race theory regards concerns that some children are being indoctrinated into thinking that white people are inherently racist or sexist. Those against critical race theory have argued it reduces people to the categories of 'privileged' or 'oppressed' based on their skin color. Supporters, however, say the theory is vital to eliminating racism because it examines the ways in which race influence American politics, culture and the law. Advertisement

The credit card company has previously been criticized for its training around critical race theory - which advocates that racism is a structural problem in the United States, particularly towards black people, embedded in its institutions, legal system and even the Constitution.

Critics of CRT claim it separates people into two categories, the 'oppressed' or the 'oppressors' based on their skin color and therefore sows division.

In American Expresses training, FOX News previously reported, employees were encouraged to rank their level of privilege and white employees were urged to avoid certain phrases and defer to black coworkers on certain issues.

The company also reportedly brought in a speaker who condemned capitalism as racist and said AmEx employees should cut corners to help black customers succeed.

The news drew the ire of the American Conservative Union, which wrote to its CEO last month that the organization 'will be hostile to your public policy goals in every federal and state legislative body through our scoring of every lawmaker in American' unless Squeri denounces 'racist CRT ideologies,' reverses course on election issues and gives 'pro-American voices' equal times in its employee trainings.

'When you do CRT training, you are playing a role in ripping America apart,' ACU Chairman Matt Schlapp told FOX News. He said the trainings 'make white straight Christian male employees apologize for being white, straight male and Christian.

'You're not allowed to discriminate based on someone's skin color, including white people,' he said, citing federal laws.

But he said 'too many corporate offices' are doing so.

The organization ironically thanked the company in its letter for 'giving us one of the best examples of hypocrisy we have ever witnessed among woke capitalists.

'We understand that you are under immense pressure to cave to the woke dogma of a racial, socialist bloc of political operatives,' the letter read.

'But your instinct for personal survival has led you to legitimize a movement that seeks to destroy the American values that make AmEx's success possible.'

'Marxism is dangerous and America's business leaders have a responsibility to denounce it.'

Schlapp said that instead of engaging in a 'woke agenda' business leaders should 'go back to running their companies, go back to hiring smart people, go back to being profitable and let the American people figure out where they want to be on these issues.'
The charges stem from a campaign rap music ad released in May 2020 that show cars doing donuts around him just outside the Civic Center

The DA is already in legal hot water from a separate indictment where he is accused of damaging government property

But after being released from jail on bond Tuesday, Jones adamantly denied the allegations against him and said he plans to return to work

But after being released from jail on bond Tuesday, Jones adamantly denied the allegations against him and said he plans to return to work

Jones is accused of trying to influence police and victim testimony in a murder trial, and offering multiple $1,000 bribes to prosecutors in his office

uscogee County District Attorney Mark Jones, 40, was indicted on Tuesday on nine counts of criminal misconduct while in office

A Georgia district attorney who is already facing criminal damage charges over a campaign rap ad is now facing multiple charges for allegedly trying to influence police officers in a murder trial and offering bribes to prosecutors.

Muscogee County District Attorney Mark Jones, 40, was indicted on Tuesday on nine counts of criminal misconduct while in office.

Jones, who only took office on January 1, is accused of trying to influence police and victim testimony in a murder trial and offering multiple $1,000 bribes to prosecutors in his office for a murder conviction, court documents said.

His office serves Muscogee, Harris, Chattahoochee, Marion, Talbot, and Taylor counties.

The DA is already in legal hot water from a separate indictment where he is accused of causing criminal damage.

The charges stem from a campaign rap music ad released in May 2020 that show cars doing donuts around him in a parking lor.

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After being released from jail on bond Tuesday, Jones (pictured) adamantly denied the allegations against him and said he plans to return to work

Jones is accused of trying to influence police and victim testimony in a murder trial, and offering multiple $1,000 bribes to prosecutors in his office

Jones did not immediately respond to a text message or email seeking comment, and his cellphone voicemail was full. A woman answering the phone in the district attorney's office said Jones wasn't available and that the office had no comment. A defense attorney who represents Jones in another matter did not immediately respond to an email or a phone message left at his office.

The latest indictment says that Jones tried to influence a police officer's testimony during grand jury proceedings in July over the shooting death of 18-year-old Sara Holtrop.

WTVM.com previously reported that police believed Holtrop was accidentally shot by 20-year-old Elijah Farral while she was asleep on a couch in February. Farral was charged with involuntary manslaughter and reckless conduct.

Jones allegedly told the officer - Columbus Police Corporal Sherman Hayes - he should testify that suspect Elijah Farral believed that the victim had been cheating on him to provide a motive so the suspect could be charged with murder, the indictment says.

The DA is also accused of trying to bribe Sheneka Jones Terry and Kimberly Schwartz, two prosecutors in his office, for $1,000 each.

The indictment alleges that in March he offered Terry a $1,000 to get a murder conviction, while a separate charge alleges he offered Schwartz a $1,000 bribe to announce that a murder case was ready for trial when it was not.

The indictment does not specify if the alleged bribes are connected to the case against Farral.

Also in March, Jones 'did knowingly use a threat and engage in misleading conduct' to influence and prevent the testimony of a crime victim and did not assist the victim through the complexities of the criminal justice system and ensure that the victim was informed of his rights under the law, the indictment says.

'It is important for the citizens of Georgia to know that our office will not hesitate to enforce the rule of law, including when it involves the actions of a public official,' Attorney General Chris Carr said in a statement announcing the charges.

The DA is already in legal hot water from a separate indictment where he is accused of damaging government property

Previous charges stem from a campaign rap music ad released in May 2020 that show cars doing donuts around him just outside the Civic Center

But after being released from jail on bond Tuesday, Jones adamantly denied the allegations against him and said he plans to return to work.

'I did not do what they say I did,' he told WTVM. 'I've never taken a bribe, never tried to influence a witness. I've never tried to get someone to testify untruthfully.'

Jones is charged with two counts of violation of oath by a public officer, two counts of attempted violation of oath by a public officer, two counts of bribery, two counts of influencing witnesses and one count of attempted subornation of perjury. All nine counts are felony charges.

Each count of violation of oath by a public officer, influencing witnesses and attempted subornation of perjury carries a penalty of one to five years in prison. Attempted violation of oath by a public officer carries a penalty of one year to 2 1/2 years in prison. And bribery carries a penalty of one to 20 years in prison.

When an elected official is indicted on a felony charge, Georgia law requires the governor to wait 14 days after receiving the indictment and then appoint a review commission to consider whether suspension is appropriate. The members of the commission in this case would be two district attorneys and a retired Supreme Court justice or retired Court of Appeals judge.

They will be tasked with determining whether the indictment relates to and adversely affects Jones performance of his duties in a way that negatively affects the public. They are to make a written report to the governor within 14 days.

If the panel recommends suspension, the governor may immediately suspend Jones with pay pending the final disposition of his case or the end of his term of office, whichever happens first. If he's convicted and any appeals fail, he'll be removed from office.

Jones is already scheduled to go on trial next week on unrelated felony charges stemming from a campaign video.

He's charged with first-degree criminal damage, interfering with government property and conspiracy in connection with a May 2020 video for his election campaign.

The video included stunt driving moves, including cars driving in doughnuts with smoking tires in the parking lot of the Columbus Civic Center, leaving behind visible tire marks.

Jones is due in court for those charges next week.

Three codefendants in that case pleaded guilty Friday and were sentenced, but Jones refused a similar plea offer.

The judge in that case rejected Jones' claims that he was indicted for political reasons after he beat the incumbent district attorney in the Democratic primary last year.
Microsoft told employees Thursday that it has indefinitely delayed their return to US offices until it's safer to do so as COVID continues to wreak havoc across the country.

'Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, weve decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our U.S. work sites,' Jared Spataro, a corporate vice president, wrote in a blog post.

Microsoft - which employs about 181,000 full-time workers, of whom 103,000 are in the US. - had already postponed its planned return to the workplace from September to no earlier than October 4.

Spataro cited the spread of the Delta variant for compelling the company to alter its plans to allow any return to the office next month.

With the announcement, Microsoft joins tech giants Google, Apple, Amazon and Facebook in delaying return-to-office plans amid growing concerns over the highly contagious strain.

Microsoft told employees Thursday that it has indefinitely delayed their return to US offices until it's safer to do so, citing the uncertainties posed by the Indian Delta variant. Pictured: Microsoft's headquarters campus in Redmond, California

Microsoft will wait for public health guidance on when it is safe to return, Spataro said. It will then give workers a 30-day transition period to prepare.

Microsoft Corporate VP James Spataro (pictured) made the announcement in a blog post Thursday

The tech giant has made a big push since the pandemic emerged to tailor its suite of workplace software products to homebound workers and timed its delayed reopening announcement with a number of new product features.

Meanwhile a study using data from 61,000 of its own employees concluded that working from home reduces creativity, communication and teamwork.

Published Thursday - the same day of the announcement - the study found that working from home made workers 'more siloed in how they communicate' and forced them to engage in fewer real-time conversations.

It also made it harder for employees across different departments to acquire and share new information, which could have implications for a company's 'productivity and innovation'.

On the other hand, working from home meant employees were spending fewer hours in meetings  often criticized as overlong and a waste of time.

Remote work also increased the volume of emails and instant messages sent, as well as the average number of hours worked in a week, suggesting that working from home has actually made employees more productive.

Also on Thursday, researchers at Microsoft released a study that found that work from home reduced communication, creativity and teamwork. For the study, researchers separated changes in behavior caused by remote work specifically, rather than the upheaval of the pandemic itself.

Researchers didn't reveal the possible reason for this, but it could be that remote working rules have made it possible for employees to return to their workstations after hours if work-related thoughts enter their minds.

Going forward, the tech giant will promote a 'hybrid' model where employees can choose what's best for them, according to Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella.

The hybrid approach permitting employees to toggle between remote and in-office work has been widely embraced in the technology industry, particularly among the largest companies with the biggest payrolls.

'People will vote with their feet,' Nadella said in an interview with CNN last month. 'So one of the other things that I also want us to be is very data-driven versus dogmatic in any policy we create. Not just in terms of the opening, but even the next year.'

Last month Microsoft CEO Satya Nadalla (pictured) said he wanted the company's business and reopening plans to remain fluid. 'One of the other things that I also want us to be is very data-driven versus dogmatic in any policy we create. Not just in terms of the opening, but even the next year,' he said.

Many tech companies had plans for bringing back most of their workers around Labor Day weekend, but Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon and a growing list of others have already decided to wait until next year.

One by one last month, they announced plans to delay returning to the office until 2022 or potentially later.

On August 5, Amazon said it would not be bringing its workers back to its corporate offices in the US and other territories until at least January 3, CNBC reported.

On August 12, Facebook announced that it too would be delaying its return to the office until January, citing the rise of the Delta variant.

'Data, not dates, is what drives our approach for returning to the office,' the company said in a statement.

The announcement came as Microsoft and a number of other tech companies have grown increasingly concerned about coronavirus infections driven by the Indian delta variant

With increased infections has also come increased deaths, and already the tech giants had announced vaccine mandates for its workers

Additionally, on August 20, Apple told its workforce that it too was pushing back its plans to bring workers back to the office to January, or potentially later.

Its original date had been scheduled for September, which prompted outcry from workers, 80 of which penned an open letter to CEO Tim Cook, saying the reopening plans were 'not sufficient in addressing many of our needs.'

On August 31, Google postponed its return to office date for workers for the third time, announcing in a blog post that it had now been moved to January 3.

Last month, Microsoft said it will require proof of vaccination for all employees, vendors and visitors to its US offices starting this fall.

It followed similar moves by fellow tech giants Facebook, Twitter and Google who would require employees to vaccinate to work in-person.

Under the original plans, caregivers for at-risk individuals and parents of children too young to get the jab will be permitted to work from home until January, Microsoft said.

Employees with prohibitive medical conditions would also be exempt from the new policy.

In the statement, Microsoft said their COVID policies would remain fluid, adapting to 'each region/country/state where we work,' and adjusting dates and policies as needed.
Indiana has reinstated its harsh abortion restrictions following a ruling from a federal appeals court, just one week after Texas passed America's most extreme reproductive rights law.

The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals panel issued a 2-1 ruling Wednesday that allows Indiana to continue enforcing several abortion laws, marking another win for anti-abortion activists.

Abortion provider Whole Woman's Health Alliance and pro-choice supporters had filed a lawsuit in 2018 challenging the state's laws, which include a ban on telemedicine abortion appointments.

A lower court had previously sided with the abortion provider and banned the enforcement of the state's laws, ruling them 'unconstitutional'.

But, the higher court rejected this ruling Wednesday, paving the way for the state's five abortion restrictions to come back into force pending the outcome of a full appeal of the case.

The five restrictions are: a ban on telemedicine consultations between doctors and women seeking abortions with in person services only allowed; that only physicians can perform chemical abortions; that only hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers can provide second-trimester abortions; that women undergoing abortions must receive in-person counseling before the procedure; and that women undergoing abortions must receive in-person physical examinations before the procedure.

Indiana has reinstated its harsh abortion restrictions following a ruling from a federal appeals court. Pictured protestors march from City Hall to the federal courthouse Sunday in protest of the new state abortion ban in Houston, Texas

Pictured a group of protesters gather in Times Square, New York City, Saturday to demonstrate against Texas' new abortion law

The appeals court said Wednesday that District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker's ruling last month was inconsistent with previous Supreme Court decisions.

'Plaintiffs contend, and the district court found, that developments in videoconferencing make it possible to dispense with in-person meetings, that improvements in medicine make the use of hospitals or surgical centers unnecessary, and that nurses are competent to approve and monitor medication-induced abortions,' the ruling said.

'The district court concluded that these findings permit it to depart from the holdings of earlier cases.

'Yet the Supreme Court insists that it alone has the authority to modify its precedents.'

Barker, who was nominated as a federal judge in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan, had ruled that the state didn't have the constitutional authority to restrict the use of virtual telemedicine services to women seeking medication abortions without providing evidence that it benefitted the women's health.

Indiana's Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita appealed Barker's decision arguing that 'the Constitution does not require state legislatures constantly to update state statutes to keep up with ever-advancing technologies just because those technologies may make abortion more convenient.'

Drug-induced abortions made up 55 percent of those performed in Indiana last year, according to the state health department.

Indiana's attorney general Todd Rokita (pictured) hailed the appeals court's decision

Rokita hailed the appeals court decision of what he described as Indiana's 'commonsense laws.'

'We would expect our commonsense laws to be upheld as the appeal continues,' Rokita said in a statement.

'Protecting the culture of life is the top priority of my office, and we will continue fighting for every life alongside our legislative partners.'

Meanwhile, Rupali Sharma, a lawyer for Whole Woman's Health, said the court's decision was being reviewed and all legal options were under consideration.

The lone dissenting appeals court Judge Diane Wood wrote that the 'benefits of Indiana's law are illusory, while its burdens are very tangible.'

Wood wrote that the laws 'impose an undue burden on the set of women for whom the law makes a difference - Indiana women of limited means who cannot leave their jobs, pay for extensive travel, obtain access to cars, and potentially go out of state, simply to obtain a lawful abortion.'

Indiana's abortion restrictions were challenged in a broad lawsuit filed by Virginia-based Whole Woman's Health Alliance in 2018 as the abortion provider fought the state's denial of a license to open an abortion clinic in South Bend.

The ruling comes exactly one week after Texas' new abortion law came into force.

The law bans abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is typically after six weeks of pregnancy - before many women even know they are pregnant.

Texas' new abortion bill, dubbed the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', was signed into law in May by Governor Greg Abbott (pictured) and took effect Wednesday

The ban also does not make exceptions for women who are victims of rape or incest, with the only exception being to save the life of the mother.

The new abortion bill, dubbed the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', was signed into law in May by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and took effect Wednesday.

The conservative-heavy Supreme Court ruled 5-4 Wednesday in favor of upholding the law, denying a request from abortion providers to block it and enabling the state to backpedal on the landmark Roe v. Wade law of 1973 which gave women across the country the right to choose to have an abortion.

Rather than enforcement by state officials, the new law gives private citizens the right to sue women who get abortions for $10,000.

Private citizens can also sue anyone who helps the woman get an abortion including abortion providers, health care workers at clinics and even Lyft or Uber workers who drive them to a clinic for the procedure.

This means the law is more difficult to contest through the courts.

Pro-choice supporters and abortion rights groups have warned that the law will disproportionately impact teenagers and people of color.

Democrats have vowed to fight back against the law with Joe Biden's Justice Department said to be planning to sue the state.

The lawsuit, which could be filed as soon as Thursday, is expected to argue that the Texas law illegally interferes with federal interests, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Chief Justice John Roberts, Justice Stephen Breyer, Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Justice Elena Kagan dissented. The other justices - all appointed by Republican presidents - allowed the law to stand. From left: Justices Samuel Alito, Brett Kavanaugh, Clarence Thomas, Elena Kagan, John Roberts, Neil Gorsuch, Stephen Breyer, Amy Coney Barrett, and Sonia Sotomayor
A serial killer, who was charged in the 2005 slaying of a pregnant Michigan woman, pleaded guilty Wednesday to murdering two Pennsylvania women.

Harold David Haulman III admitted in Luzerne County court to murdering Tianna Phillip, 25, in 2018, and Erica Shultz, 26, in 2020, to avoid the death penalty.

Instead, he was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Haulman was already a convicted killer and spent time in a German prison for murdering an American military doctor in 1999 but was later released and returned to the U.S.

The details about why he was released and when he returned to the United States are unknown. He's been homeless for years before his arrest.

'I usually tell people when they are sentenced good luck, but I will not do that with you,' Luzerne County Judge Michael Vough said during Wednesday's court appearance.

'I've been doing this for 30 years and you think you see everything then you come along. You are evil. You took the lives of these women for no reason whatsoever.

'Do you realize what you did? You, sir, bringing them into the woods for no reason, just to kill them,' Vough told Haulman.

Harold David Haulman (left), who was convicted of murder in Germany in 1999, pleaded guilty to two Pennsylvania murders and is charged in a Michigan woman's murder. Luzerne County Judge Michael Vough (right) said to Haulman, 'You are evil. You took the lives of these women for no reason whatsoever'

David Haulman pleaded guilty to murdering Tianna Phillips (left), 25, in 2018 and Eric Shultz (right), 26, in 2020 on Wednesday in a Pennsylvania court

Haulman was charged in the 2005 death of Ashley M. Parlier, a pregnant 21-year-old who went missing from Battle Creek, Michigan in 2005

Before Vough handed down Haulman's sentence, Phillips's sister Toshia Feaster issued a victim impact statement.

'You are the perfect definition of a serial killer and scumbag. They were beautiful loving souls who weren't able to see you for the animal you are,' she said.

Haulman replied to the judge and Feaster: 'There's nothing I can say.'

Haulman had been romantically involved with Phillips when she disappeared in 2018. It's unclear if what his relationship was with Shutlz before he killed her in December 2020.

He preyed on women by using online dating apps to meet his victims and then lured them to an isolated part of the woods to kill them.

Much of the evidence that led to Haulman's arrest for the Pennsylvania murders and subsequent Michigan murder stems from a confession letter he sent his estranged wife, Anne Haulman, while attempting to reconcile their marriage.

'On June 13th 2018 I drove to Berwick Pa and picked up Tiana Ann Phillips and took her for a drive.

'We ended up somewhere in the woods east of Berwick Pa. After walking into the woods I pulled a knive (sic) from my pocket and attacked her from behind cutting her throat,' Haulman wrote to Anne.

'As she gasped for her last breath of air I stabbed her repeatedly in the side of the neck, back and arms.

'I then returned to the crime scene months later and retrieved any and all evidence and disposed of it in a dumpster, not sure exactly where.

'I Harold David Haulman III committed this crime on my own and of my own free will, David Haulman.'

Anne promptly provided the letter to law enforcement.

Harold David Haulman, III, is escorted into court for a preliminary hearing

Police told the Daily Item that Haulman told his wife in 2018 that he killed Phillips and showed her pictures of a dead woman, but Anne told prosecutors that she didn't believe him.

Then he forced her to go to the murder scene with him three months later, and he removed Phillips's skull, clothing and ribcage from the area, she told prosecutors.

The couple separated during summer 2020, but Haulman tried to fix their marriage a few months later by sending greeting cards and the above confession letter.

Haulman was arrested in July for both Pennsylvania murders and then confessed to killing Parlier in Battle Creek, Michigan in 2005 during a police integrations, according to court documents. Those charges are still outstanding.

Members of Parlier's family joined the families of Phillips and Shultz in the Pennsylvania courtroom on Wednesday.
Joint Chiefs of Staff chairman Mark Milley, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and head of US Central Command Gen. Frank Mackenzie will testify before Congress next week, after the Pentagon warned of a potential resurgence of al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.

The nation's top defense officials are scheduled to testify at a public hearing scheduled for Sept. 28, the Senate Armed Services Committee announced Thursday.

'The whole community is kind of watching to see what happens and whether or not al-Qaida has the ability to regenerate in Afghanistan,' Austin told a group of reporters in Kuwait City on Thursday.

'The nature of al-Qaida and (the Islamic State group) is they will always attempt to find space to grow and regenerate, whether it's there, whether it's in Somalia, or whether it's in any other ungoverned space. I think that's the nature of the organization.'

The Taliban provided al-Qaeda with sanctuary when it controlled Afghanistan from 1996-2001, in the run-up to 9/11. The US invaded the nation after the Taliban refused to turn over the leaders of al-Qaeda.

'We put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that to happen' Austin said of al-Qaeda using Afghanistan as a home base to stage attacks. A February 2020 peace agreement promised the US would withdraw its forces from Afghanistan if the Taliban promised not to harbor terrorists.

Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, left, meets Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, right, in Kuwait City, Kuwait on September 09

Austin, left, and Gen. Mark Milley, right, will testify before Congress this month

The Taliban recaptured Afghanistan in August. The last time the Taliban ruled, 1996-2001, they harbored members of al-Qaeda as they staged 9/11

Austin and other members of the Biden administration have asserted the US has over-the-horizon capabilities to contain al-Qaeda and other terrorist threats.

On Sept. 15 Gen. Austin Scott Miller, the last commander of US and NATO troops in Afghanistan, will provide a closed-door briefing on 'recent developments' in Afghanistan.

On Sept. 30, the committee will also hold a review of US military operations in Afghanistan with external experts.

The Armed Services Committee announcement comes after the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs committees announced Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to testify at hearings next week.

Committee chairman Jack Reed has faced pressure from all sides to hold hearings to investigate what went wrong in President Biden's exit from Afghanistan.

'I'm grateful to Chairman Reed for prioritizing these critical oversight hearings on Afghanistan  the first of what I will expect to be many hearings and briefings to review and determine what happened, who should be held accountable, and how we move forward,' Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla., the committee's ranking member, said in a statement. 'The American people, our service members past and present, our allies and partners around the world and the Afghans who bravely helped us deserve this transparency and accountability.'

The Biden administration has in weeks past said there would be time to evaluate what went wrong, but it was focused on evacuations.

Ten Senate Republicans, led by Sen. Tommy Tuberville, Ala., sent a letter to Reed on Wednesday demanding hearings on Biden's withdrawal and a request for the Defense Department to preserve all records relating to the drawdown.

'It is necessary and appropriate for Congress to examine the manner in which our military mission ended in Afghanistan. We should do so with transparency, candor, and a dedication to ascertaining the facts without regard to politics,' Tuberville wrote.
More than 100 migrants have been rescued by the Italian coastguard after they washed up below rocky cliffs on a tiny uninhabited island in rough seas.

The 125 asylum seekers, including 49 women and 20 children, were discovered at around dawn on Isola dei Conigli after one of their boats sank off Lampedusa.

Dramatic footage showed rescuers in wetsuits and snorkels swimming inflatable rafts to the shore where waves crashed at the migrants' feet.

The refugees were transported three at a time to a pair of waiting rescue vessels.

Dramatic footage shows a rescuer swimming with a raft to the coastguard vessel off the island on Thursday morning

Desperate migrants cling onto the inflatable raft as they are hauled to safety in rough seas off Lampedusa on Thursday at around dawn

Rescuers carefully load the migrants onto a tiny inflatable raft. The migrants were given metal blankets for warmth while they waited to be transported across to a pair of waiting boats

A coastguard officer swims the life raft over to the rocky shore as a pair of rescue boats wait nearby

The migrants were taken to a pair of waiting rescue vessels before being ferried to Lampedusa's port about two miles east

The coastguard said that the rescue effort was complicated by choppy waters and the jagged reefs which surround the islet.

Eventually all 125 were hoisted safely aboard the rescue vessels, given protective wraps against the early morning chill and take to Lampedusa's port about 2 miles to the east.

The coast guard said in a statement that all the migrants were in good health.

Lampedusa has a housing complex for migrants who reach the island after rescue from unseaworthy boats launched by smugglers based in Libya.

Sometimes fishing boats or rubber dinghies crowded with migrants reach the island unaided after setting sail from Tunisia's coast.

Requests by many of the migrants for asylum are often denied by Italy unless they can document they are fleeing war and other conflict or persecution, not poverty.

The migrants are hoping to reach relatives or obtain jobs in Europe.

Nearly 40,000 migrants have arrived in Italy from North Africa so far this year, according to the United Nations.

The crowd of migrants waiting on the shore. One of the boats they used to cross from north Africa sunk

So far this year 70,000 migrants have crossed the Mediterranean into Italy, Greece, Spain, Cyprus and Malta, according to the United Nations

In total nearly 70,000 have crossed the Mediterranean into Italy, Greece, Spain, Cyprus and Malta.

Around a quarter are Tunisian, 12.5 per cent are Bangladeshi, 8.5 per cent are Egyptian, 6.6 per cent are Ivorian and 5.5 per cent are Syrian.

An estimated 1,195 are dead or missing.

This year's arrivals compare with 95,031 migrants crossing the Mediterranean in 2020, 123,663 in 2019 and 141,472 in 2018.

These figures are dwarfed by the more than one million who crossed in 2015 at the height of the European migrant crisis.
France has granted citizenship to more than 12,000 foreign-born health workers to thank them for their services during the Covid crisis, the government said Thursday.

These essential workers include security guards, checkout assistants and other frontline workers.

Marlene Schiappa, junior interior minister in charge of citizenship, said over 16,000 people had applied for a French passport over the past year under a special scheme.

Over 12,000 foreign-born front line workers were granted French citizenship after a special scheme allowed them to apply after two years, instead of five. Pictured: Marlene Schiappa

The scheme sped up the application procces for workers in essential services, allowing them to apply for citizenship after just two years in France, instead of the usual five.

Of these, 12,012 became French, she said.

Among the other categories of employees eligible for the scheme are garbage collectors, home-care providers and nannies.

'These frontline workers were there for the nation. It is normal that the nation makes a gesture in their favour,' Schiappa said in a statement.

The gesture was made to thank them for serving the nation during Covid-19, the governmernt said on Thursday. Pictured: A man has a PCR test in Paris in August

In 2020, a total of 61,371 people got French citizenship.

Several of them were invited to Place Beauvau in Paris, where the Ministry's offices are situated, at the start of the school year.

Like most of Europe, France imposed a strict lockdown in early 2020 and introduced milder confinement and mask-wearing measures during subsequent months to contain the virus.

Hospitalizations and infections have been subsiding in recent weeks after the government stepped up vaccination measures, with more than 62 per cent of the population now fully vaccinated.
A third fewer people are seeing their GP in-person compared to pre-pandemic

Concerns have been raised about the role of phone consultations in five deaths

Remote GP appointments may have contributed to the deaths of five people who did not see their doctor in-person, a coroner has concluded.

Doctors missed important details in telephone appointments that may have been spotted if they were seen in face-to-face, senior coroner for Greater Manchester Alison Mutch warned.

Fadhia Seguleh  who had phone call appointments with her GP about her anxiety and depression, which the corner warned made it harder to assess her needs  committed suicide in her home on February 25.

Ms Mutch also had concerns about the role of remote doctor appointments in the deaths of three other people, who died from a fatal blood clot in the lung, undiagnosed Covid and a drug overdose.

And a a fifth patient, who was a frail elderly man with a host of severe underlying health conditions, died after breaking a bone that wasn't spotted by hospital doctors and his GP in a phone call consultation.

Experts have long-warned that moving away from in-person appointments can lead to missed diagnoses.

A third fewer people are seeing their GP in-person now compared to before the pandemic and tens of millions were 'lost' during the Covid crisis, as they avoided seeking care due to concerns about catching the virus or putting strain on the NHS.

When the Covid crisis hit the UK, GPs were urged to conduct all consultations remotely and only invite patients for an in-person appointment if it was necessary, in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus.

In May, as infection levels were dropping, NHS England ordered GPs in May to offer all patients in-person appointments alongside remote ones and were offered cash bonuses for meeting virtual consultation targets.

But doctors condemned the move and the British Medical Association's GP committee labelled the move 'completely inappropriate and dangerous'.

The number of GP appointments taking place face-to-face dropped dramatically at the beginning of the pandemic, as virtual appointments were encouraged in an attempt to keep social mixing low and hospitals virus-free. In-person appointments began to increase last summer, before dropping again during the second wave. Despite being on the rise, the figures are still much lower than pre-pandemic levels

Coroners can write prevention of future death reports, which they send to people or organisations that are in a position to reduce the risk of a person dying under the same circumstances in the future.

Ms Mutch sent five reports health authorities  including local trusts, Health Secretary Sajid Javid and NHS England  asking them to take action to tackle risks associated with remote appointments, a Health Service Journal (HSJ) investigation found.

In one case, Ms Seguleh  who was being treated for mental health problems  committed suicide in her Stockpot home in February.

The coroner concluded that Ms Seguleh's GP telephone appointments about her condition would have happened in-person before the pandemic.

Mental health assessments and understanding a patient's needs are 'far easier' face-to-face, the report states, suggesting that Ms Seguleh would have received better care if the consultations took place face-to-face.

The coroner also raised concerns about her having to go to A&E on her own due to the pandemic, 'which left her unsupported at a time of crisis'.

And information was not shared between her GP and private doctor, so neither had a 'full picture' of her condition, the report states.

Separately, Maurice Leech died on April 30 last year in Thorncliffe Grange Nursing Home in Manchester after doctors in hospital and his GP during a virtual appointment failed to realise he had broken his femur.

He was admitted to hospital after an accidental fall and medics did not given the correct x-ray.

How many doctor appointments in England are face-to-face? Some 25.5million GP appointments took place in July, NHS Digital figures show. But just 14.6million (57.2 per cent) took place in-person. The next most popular mode of appointment was a phone call, with 10million (39.3 per cent) taking place this way. Some 158,000 (0.6 per cent) were home visits, while 104,705 (0.4 per cent) were video appointments. How the remaining 624,037 appointments took place was not recorded. The proportion of appointments taking place in-person has been steadily increasing since January, when the figure dropped to 52.9 per cent during the peak of the second wave. The rate dropped to 46.8 per cent last April, the lowest figure since NHS Digital began recording the data in 2019. Prior to the pandemic, around eight in 10 appointments took place face-to-face. Advertisement

Mr Leech had a telephone conversation with his GP about the pain he was suffering, but was not examined due to Covid.

By the time Mr Leech returned to hospital and staff realised he had a broken femur, he was unable to undergo surgery and died around two weeks later due to complications from the fall and underlying conditions.

Ms Mutch concluded in her report that he would have been seen face-to-face by his GP if the fall happened before the Covid crisis and probably would have been referred back to hospital earlier.

Additionally, if Mr Leech was accompanied to hospital  which he would have been before the pandemic  staff may have been given a 'more accurate picture of his baseline and needs', the report stated.

In another case, Stanislaw Zielinski died on June 2 from cardiac arrest and blocked blood vessel in his lung, after he had been hospitalised for falling out his window.

Mr Zielinski  who was suffering from insomnia and anxiety  told his wife he believe he was being chased when he fell.

He alerted his GP of his mental state one year earlier, but his appointments were limited to phone calls due to the pandemic.

A referral by his GP to mental health services was 'lost in the system'.

He had a telephone consultation after doing a self-referral and prescribed medication that had 'little impact', according to the report.

The coroner concluded that his care was 'significantly impacted' by the phone appointments, which would have been face-to-face pre-Covid.

His family told the coroner they and Mr Zielinski 'struggled to communicate with the GP to explain his deteriorating health position as a result of how his GP practice was delivering health care'.

His doctor did not fully understand his 'deteriorating picture' and he was additionally anxious because he was unable to express his concerns in-person, the coroner said.

And due to delays in mental health services  which were exacerbated by Covid  Mr Zielinski did not receive support in a timely manner, the report states.

In a fourth case, Brain Mottram died in Tameside on November 16 from undiagnosed Covid after feeling unwell for a week.

He previously underwent lung cancer surgery and had diabetes, which put him at greater risk from the virus, the coroner said.

Two days before he was found unresponsive, Mr Mottram had a phone appointment with his GP and described suffering from shortness of breath, a cough, a fever and lack of appetite. He was prescribed antibiotics.

More than 90million fewer face-to-face GP appointments were carried out last year, MailOnline can reveal

If he had a face-to-face GP appointment, he 'may well have' been diagnosed with Covid and received different treatment, the report states.

Additionally, it is concerning that the local GPs did not seem to have a clear way of identifying those at high-risk from Covid and brining them in for additional checks when they were suspected to have the virus, the coroner said.

In response to the report, Tameside Metropolitan Borough told the HSJ that national guidelines at the time on GP consultations advised that appointments should be remote when possible.

In another case, Steven Allen died on October 26 in his Stockport home after taking a fatal level of prescribed medicine.

He had a history of drug addition and was prescribed medicines including strong pain killer oxycodone through a consultation with his GP, that happened via a phone call due to Covid.

Ms Mutch said he was subsequently given replacement prescriptions 'with little challenge' through phone appointments.

Stockport Clinical Commissioning Group told the HSJ it examined its processes for prescribing medicine for vulnerable patients, but found Mr Allen's case was an isolated incident.

Jacob Lant, head of policy, research and partnership at charity Healthwatch England told the HSJ: 'Remote appointments have been hugely positive for some people, and they create opportunities to make care more flexible.

'However, they are not always the best approach for everyone or every circumstance, including people who don't have access to the internet, for whom English is not first language or those in a mental health crisis.'

But Dr Maureen Baker, former chair of the Royal College of GPs, said she was 'not aware pre-pandemic of any major concerns with remote consulting'.

She said: 'It's not that things don't go wrong. They do, but things can and do go wrong in face-to-face consultations as well.

'Many practices have been using remote consulting very successfully for many years [but for GPs introducing remote consultations during the pandemic] the concern is that practices will have had to change and implement it very quickly.'

Royal College of GPs chair Martin Marshall told the journal: 'The switch to largely remote working has been necessary to prevent the spread of the virus and protect patients, many of whom were clinically vulnerable.

'For some patients, remote consultations have actually made it easier to access GP services.

'But we also know that remote consulting can make it more difficult to pick up on soft signs, which can be useful when making a diagnosis.'
Some 863 Covid patients were admitted on Sunday  up 1.8 per cent on the 848 admissions the week before

It was the first time Britain recorded a week-on-week fall in Covid cases since Thursday last week

There 38,013 new coronavirus infections today  down 0.4 per cent on the 38,154 recorded last week

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Britain's Covid outbreak remained flat today despite fears there would be a resurgence in cases after schools reopened last week, official figures show.

Department of Health bosses posted 38,013 new infections today, down 0.4 per cent on the 38,154 recorded last week.

It was the first time Britain has recorded a week-on-week fall in cases since last Thursday, with experts fearing the return to classroom had led to a resurgence in the pandemic.

Schools in Scotland reopened as early as August 18, with children in England and Northern Ireland returning on September 1, meaning any upswing in cases caused by the reopening would likely have been seen by now.

Deaths also fell today, with 167 fatalities recorded  a drop-off of 6.2 per cent on the 178 seen last week.

But the number of hospital admissions remained relatively flat. Some 863 Covid patients were admitted on Sunday  the most recent date data is available for  up 1.8 per cent on the week before.

The daily figures come as three separate studies showed a mix bag in terms of how the return to classrooms affected case levels.

Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiologist and lead scientist of the ZOE Covid study, said the return of schools and summer festivals 'hasn't yet caused a spike' in infections.

But he warned: 'However, the picture is worse in Scotland, where rates are still rising and our figures indicate that Scottish hospitals could soon be overwhelmed.

'The Scottish situation makes it clear we can't be complacent about Covid as winter approaches. We are still producing far too many Long Covid cases and hospitalisations unnecessarily.'

 Slide me  Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England. Map shows: The percentage change in infections in regions across England in the week ending September 5 (right) and the week before (left)

Public Health England's report published today showed unvaccinated people were up to five times more likely to be hospitalised with Covid in August compared to those who had got both doses. The above graph shows the Covid hospitalisation rate among unvaccinated people (red) compared to vaccinated people (blue). The rate was worked out by dividing the number of vaccinated and unvaccinated people who were admitted to hospital with the virus by the total number of people in England who had and had not got their vaccines

Public Health England's report also showed Britons were up to ten times more likely to die from Covid if they were unvaccinated than if they had received both jabs. The above graph shows the Covid death rate among people who had not been jabbed (red) compared to those who had received both doses (blue). The data is for August only and England. The rate was worked out by dividing the number of vaccinated and unvaccinated people who died with the virus by the total number of people in England who had and had not got their vaccines

But protection from vaccines against infection wanes over time. Studies have shown that jabs are less effective against the Indian 'Delta' variant at preventing infection, although they still prevent hospitalisation and death in the vast majority of cases. The above graph shows the infection rate in England by unvaccinated people (red) and vaccinated (blue). The rate was worked out by dividing the number of vaccinated and unvaccinated people who caught the virus by the total number of people in England who had and had not got their vaccines

NHS pushes back against 'unnecessary' compulsory Covid jabs plan NHS workers have hit out against 'blunt instrument' plans to make Covid jabs for staff compulsory by winter, warning it could push out key staff 'at a time we can least afford it'. The Government today launched a six-week consultation into plans to make vaccination a legal requirement to work with NHS patients. Under the plans, around 120,000 frontline NHS staff who are still not vaccinated could be required by law to be jabbed to reduce transmission in hospitals. But unions have hit out at the plans today, arguing mandatory vaccination is unnecessary because of high uptake rates. Figures show 88 per cent of NHS staff are fully vaccinated and around 92 per cent have had a first dose, despite being first offered a jab last December. There are about 1.2million frontline staff in the health service in England. The numbers are slightly lower in London, where there has been more hesitancy about vaccination, with only 86 per cent have had a first jab. President of the hospital doctors' union the HCSA Dr Claudia Paoloni said using 'compulsion rather than persuasion' to ensure remaining unvaccinated staff take up the offer of a jab will put off hesitant key workers. The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) expressed doubts over whether making jabs compulsory would increase the number of people taking up the offer of a vaccine. And The NHS Confederation  which represents NHS trusts across England  said 'the focus must remain on increasing vaccine confidence' rather than forcing staff to take jabs. A member of the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI)  an independent body that advises the Government on vaccine policy  today said making jabs mandatory would feel 'like an admission of failure'. Advertisement

It comes as:

The EU's vaccine watchdog claimed AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine may trigger a nerve disorder in 'very rare' cases;

Figures revealed one in ten people in England are stuck on the NHS waiting list for routine operations;

A union revealed London transport staff have been warned that anti-vax 'propaganda' posters have been found with razor blades which could injure anyone trying to remove them;

NHS workers hit out against 'blunt instrument' plans to make Covid jabs for staff compulsory by winter, warning it could push out key staff 'at a time we can least afford it';

Britain's medicines watchdog today approved the AstraZeneca and Pfizer Covid jabs to be used as third doses, as the country edges closer towards green-lighting a booster vaccine programme this autumn;

Pressure for a mass British booster vaccine programme continued to mount as figures showed Scotland's daily Covid hospital admissions rose by 50 per cent in a week.

Figures from Public Health England today suggested Covid cases rose nine per cent last week as schools reopened with children aged 10 to 19 testing positive nearly six times more than the elderly.

Cases in children in the age group spiked by 42 per cent in a week from 478.3 per 100,000 to 681.4 in the week ending September 5. This compared to just 114 cases per 100,000 in the over-80s  down 1.2 per cent from the week before  and 145.8 in 70- to 79-year-olds  which remained flat.

But separate data from a symptom-tracking study that uses a different methodology suggested the overall number of people falling ill with the virus fell during the same week.

King's College London's ZOE Covid Study  which relies on people self-reporting symptoms  estimated 51,876 people suffered with the virus in the week ending September 4, down nine per cent on the previous week (57,158).

And separate figures from NHS Test and Trace showed a total of 191,431 people tested positive for Covid in England at least once in the week to September 1, down four per cent on the previous week. The number of people testing positive has been around 200,000 in the six most-recent weeks of data.

Children returned to schools on Wednesday last week in England, meaning the data for the King's College and PHE surveillance reports only includes half a week of the start of term.

It takes at least a week for cases to start appearing because of how long it takes for the virus to incubate but the figures show symptomatic cases were already highest in people aged 18 and younger.

Overall cases in Scotland increased during the same period, where children were back in classes as early as August 18. Prevalence was also highest in school age children.

The PHE data shows overall the number of positive cases last week rose from 171,798 to 187,059. Case rates in England are continuing to rise in most age groups, PHE said. The exceptions are 20 to 29-year-olds, 60 to 69-year-olds and people aged 80 and over.

The highest rate is among 10 to 19-year-olds, with 681.4 cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to September 5, up sharply week-on-week from 478.3.

The second highest rate is among 20 to 29-year-olds, down from 412.1 to 373.2. The lowest rate is among people aged 80 and over, at 114.0, down slightly from 115.4.

But separate data from King's College London scientists suggested 51,876 people suffered with the virus in the week ending September 4, down nine per cent on the previous week (57,158)

Figures from Public Health England show cases in children aged 10 to 19 spiked by 42 per cent in a week from 478.3 per 100,000 to 681.4 in the week ending September 5. This was nearly six times higher than the 114 cases per 100,000 in over-80s  down 1.2 per cent from the week before  and 145.8 in 70- to 79-year-olds  which remained flat

Symptomatic cases were highest in people aged 18 and younger, despite children only returning to schools on Wednesday last week in England

Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England, according to the latest weekly surveillance report from Public Health England

The PHE Surveillance Report showed cases across age groups (light blue bar) rose nine per cent last week as schools reopened

The Midlands has the highest number of total new cases in England with 8,070 per day. Graph shows: Estimated active cases in each region

In the fully vaccinated population, it's estimated there are currently 17,674 new daily symptomatic cases in the UK. Cases in this group had been rising steadily but have now stabilised, with last week's figure being 17,342

Pressure mounts for boosters as Scotland's Covid hospital admissions rise 50% in a week Pressure for a mass British booster vaccine programme continued to mount today as figures showed Scotland's daily Covid hospital admissions rose by 50 per cent in a week. Data from the Government's Covid dashboard showed that on average there were 114 patients being admitted each day to hospitals in Scotland in the week to September 1, compared to 76 the week prior. The number seeking treatment for the virus has risen steadily since schools went back from the summer break in the middle of August, when there were about 40 Covid admissions per day. Daily hospitalisations are now at 60 per cent of the levels seen at the peak of the second wave, but patients are presenting with milder illness and being discharged quicker than earlier phases of the pandemic. There were 883 Covid patients in hospital with the virus yesterday compared to more than 2,000 at the height of the winter wave in January  in a sign the vaccines are working. Eighty-two patients were on mechanical ventilators by the most recent count on Wednesday and the country is recording seven deaths from the virus per day, on average. The growing hospital numbers in Scotland come amid increasing calls for a more broad booster vaccine programme in the UK. Advertisement

Rates are rising in all regions of England except south-west England, according to PHE.

North-east England has the highest rate, with 378.6 cases per 100,000 people in the seven days to September 5, up from 320.3. Yorkshire and the Humber has the second highest rate at 378.4, up from 343.0. London has the lowest rate at 240.0, up slightly from 237.5.

Dr Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at Public Health England, said: 'Case rates remain high although fairly stable across the country and are currently highest in those aged 10-19 years old.

'We expect to see more cases in this age groups as schools detect cases of Covid acquired during the summer holidays. We continue to closely monitor how the start of the school year is impacting infections and will review recommendations accordingly.

'In recent days many have begun to return to the workplace.

'It's important to keep following the simple steps to help protect yourself and others, get both doses of the vaccine, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces and if you have Covid symptoms, please do not go out.

'You should only leave home to get a PCR test, which you should get as soon as possible if you have symptoms.'

The ZOE Covid study data  which relies on self-reporting, meaning it is often ahead of the official curve due to the time it takes to process tests  showed one in 90 people across the UK currently have symptomatic Covid.

There are currently 17,674 new daily symptomatic cases among fully vaccinated people in the UK. Cases in the group had been rising steadily but have now stabilised, with last week's figure being 17,342.

Professor Spector said: 'For 521 days, ZOE and King's College London have demanded cold and flu-like symptoms be recognised as common Covid symptoms and communicated widely as in other countries.

'With UK rates the highest in Europe, if the government continues with no restrictions, surely we should at least help people to recognise the symptoms early and know when to stay at home.'

Meanwhile the NHS figures showed some 12.5 per cent of people  one in eight  who were transferred to Test and Trace in England in the week to September 1 were not reached, meaning they were not able to provide details of recent close contacts.

This is down slightly from 12.7 per cent in the previous week.

Anybody in England who tests positive for Covid, either through a rapid (LFD) test or a PCR test processed in a laboratory, is transferred to Test and Trace so their contacts can be identified and alerted.

But both King's College and NHS Tests and Trace use delayed data, with official figures from the Department of Health showing an increase in infections since September 4.

The UK recorded 38,975 new positive tests yesterday  a jump of 9.2 per cent on the 35,693 recorded last Wednesday.

Hospital admissions with the virus also continued to increase at a similar rate, rising 10.8 per cent to 933 on September 4, the latest date data is available for.
Former President Trump endorsed Wyoming attorney Harriet Hageman in the fight against Rep. Liz Cheney for the 2022 primary.

'I strongly endorse Republican House of Representatives Candidate Harriet Hageman from Wyoming who is running against warmonger and disloyal Republican, Liz Cheney,' Trump said in a statement released Thursday.

'Harriet has my Complete and Total Endorsement in replacing the Democrats number one provider of sound bites, Liz Cheney.'

'Here's a sound bite for you: Bring it,' Cheney shot back on Twitter.

'Harriet Hageman adores the Great State of Wyoming, is strong on Crime and Borders, powerfully supports the Second Amendment, loves our Military and our Vets, and will fight for Election Integrity and Energy Independence (which Biden has already given up). Unlike RINO Liz Cheney, Harriet is all in for America First,' Trump continued.

Hageman is set to formally announce her campaign in Cheyenne, Wyo. on Thursday afternoon.

'The people of Wyoming deserve leaders who reflect their views and values, but Liz Cheney betrayed us because of her personal war with President Trump, who won Wyoming by massive majorities twice,' Hageman said in a news release.

'Cheney has lost the trust of the people of our state, just as she has lost any ability to be a leader for us in Washington, D.C. In contrast, I have dedicated my career to fighting for the people of Wyoming and defending our great state against the excess of government.'

Cheney said she was 'proud' of her strong conservative record and looked forward to debate.

'I look forward to an extended public debate about the importance of the rule of law and the solemn duty of elected officials to uphold their oath to the constitution. It is tragic that some in this race have sacrificed those principles, and their duty to the people of Wyoming, out of fear and in favor of loyalty to a former president who deliberately misled the American people about the 2020 election, provoked an attack on the US Capitol, and failed to perform his duties as president as violence ensured.'

Trump has for months promised revenge for Cheney's vote to impeach him in February, and has met with a handful of GOP candidates who are looking to oust the Wyoming Republican.

Politico first reported the president would throw his weigh behind Hageman, a 2018 gubernatorial candidate.

Trump's team not only encouraged Hageman to run but also is now working to clear the field of other candidates ahead of the August 2022 primary so as not to split the anti-Cheney vote.

The former president has already told Hageman he will endorse her, a source said, and the endorsement is expected to drop any day.

Cheney has become a no. 1 priority target for Trump-aligned conservatives after she repeatedly spoke out against his claims of election fraud, outcries which led to her ouster from House Republican leadership in May.

Former President Trump has promised revenge against Rep. Liz Cheney after her vote to impeach the president for inciting a riot on Jan. 6

Hageman, a Wyoming attorney and conservative activist, finished third in the GOP gubernatorial primary of 2018

On Tuesday, Hageman stepped down from her position as national GOP committeewoman at the Republican National Convention.

'By censuring Rep. Liz Cheney we sent the strong message that we expect our elected officials to respect the views and values of the people who elected them. Accountability is key and I am proud of our party for demanding it,' she wrote in her resignation letter according to Politico.

Hageman is a fourth-generation Wyomingite who grew up on a ranch and has been a conservative activist and land-use attorney for decades. Her law expertise focuses on federal overreach and regulations.

DailyMail.com has reached out to both Hageman and the Trump team.

In Cheney's unsuccessful 2014 bid for a Wyoming Senate seat, Hageman was listed as a member of the Cheney campaign's leadership team. Hageman and her family were considered longtime allies of the Cheney family at the time, according to the Caspar Star-Tribune.

In the Republican gubernatorial primary of 2018, Hageman came in third with 20.5% of the vote, behind Trump-backed billionaire Foster Friess who came in second.

Trump's support of Friess was far more limited than his support of a Cheney challenger is expected to be, limited mostly to an election day tweet.

Republican politics reign supreme in Wyoming ,where Trump won by more than 43 percentage points in 2020, a larger margin than any other state he won.

But Cheney, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, won her primary in 2016 by nearly 18 points, and won the general election by 32.

Trump in recent days has doled out support for a slew of primary challengers to the 10 Republicans who voted in favor of impeachment in the House for inciting a riot on Jan. 6.

On Tuesday the president backed Steve Carra, a one-term member of the Michigan House, to take on Fred Upton, a Michigan representative who's served in the House for more than three decades.

The ex-president restarted his campaign rallies by traveling to the Ohio district of impeachment backing GOP Rep. Anthony Gonzalez in June, so he could stump for former aide Max Miller.

Trump also endorsed Kelly Tshibaka, who's running to take GOP Sen. Lisa Murkowski's job.

Later on Tuesday, Trump put out a statement admonishing Pennsylvania Sen. Pat Toomey, who announced nearly a year ago that he wouldn't be running for a third term.

'The only reason Senator 'Gloomy' Pat Toomey is not running for the Senate in Pennsylvania is that I would not give him an endorsement - I feel he has been a terrible representative for both Pennsylvania and the United States, as a whole,' the former president claimed.

Trump also credited himself for winning Toomey a second term.
A 71-year-old Alabama man who took 11 Molotov cocktails and five loaded weapons to the Capitol riot on January 6 has reached a plea agreement with prosecutors.

The Wednesday filing from federal prosecutors did not provide details of the deal with Lonnie Coffman of Falkville, Alabama.

On January 6, Capitol Police found Coffman's red GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck packed with 11 mason jars filled with a flammable liquid 'with a hole punched in the top of each jar, along with lighters and rags,' according to prosecutors.

The truck was parked near the Capitol as officers conducted a search for explosives in nearby buildings.

They discovered a loaded rifle, a loaded handgun and a loaded shotgun; a crossbow with bolts; several machetes; camouflage smoke devices, and a stun gun, prosecutors said.

Photos from the Capitol riot on January 6 show Lonnie Coffman, 71, walking with a crowd near the federal building. He had two loaded firearms on him when he was arrested that night

Coffman's pickup truck was full of molotov cocktails, machetes and handwritten notes

On January 11, a grand jury indicted Coffman on 17 charges including possession of unregistered firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of a large-capacity ammunition feeding device.

A hearing in the case is scheduled for September 29, and prosecutors have asked the court to turn it into a plea hearing after reaching an agreement with Coffman.

Coffman is an Army veteran who served two tours during the Vietnam War.

According to family members, he dealt with depression and 'often spoke about the difficulty he had dealing with the experiences from the war,' according to court documents.

A family member said Coffman 'became a hermit after he separated from his wife,' according to the court document.

Prosecutors say police found hundreds of rounds of ammunition in Coffman's truck

The Army veteran from Alabama also took a crossbow with bolts to the riot

Most shockingly, officers found eleven mason jars with holes punched at the top and a flammable liquid inside, suggesting they were Molotov cocktails ready to be thrown

Officers stumbled across Coffman's truck as they were searching the perimeter for bombs

In 2014, the FBI identified him as part of Camp Lonestar, a gathering for Texas militia groups

In May, a judge denied him bond citing his part in the camp and the large stockpile of weapons

A grand jury indicted Coffman on seventeen counts, including carrying a rifle or a shotgun

Coffman had allegedly gone to Sen. Ted Cruz's office a month before the riot to discuss 'election fraud,' and staffers there said he appeared 'unbalanced' and 'not 100 percent there'

Prosecutors say Coffman went to Washington in December 2020, a month before the Capitol riot, to try to find the house of Texas Sen. Ted Cruz.

Coffman allegedly called Cruz's office to discuss concerns over perceived 'election fraud,' and staffers at Cruz's office noted that Coffman seemed 'unbalanced' or 'not 100 percent there.'

Coffman is one of hundreds arrested after rioters supporting then-President Donald Trump stormed the US Capitol on January 6 and disrupted the certification of President Joe Biden's election win.

Photos from the riot show him walking with a crowd near the Capitol during the unrest.

Five people died after supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the US Capitol building, breaking in while Congress was certifying the 2020 election for Joe Biden

Police also found handwritten notes on his truck, including one with a quote attributed to Abraham Lincoln that read, 'We The People Are The Rightful Masters Of Bot The Congress And The Courts, Not To Overthrow The Constitution But To Overthrow The Men Who Pervert The Constitution.'

Officers found the weapons and notes during a sweep of the area after pipe bombs were found near two buildings.

The Capitol Police bomb squad was investigating reports of explosives at the Democratic National Committee Headquarters and the National Republican Club - both minutes away from the Capitol - when they found Coffman's loaded truck in the area.

Prosecutors said Coffman left his truck on the morning of the riot and was arrested when he returned to the vehicle in the evening. He had two more loaded weapons on him, according to prosecutors, suggesting that he participated in the riot with the weapons on him.

A judge in May denied Coffman bond citing his participation in a militia training camp and large stockpile of weapons.

According to earlier court filings, the FBI in 2014 identified Coffman as a participant at Camp Lonestar, a reported gathering place for Texas militia groups, and said he had information about two other militia groups.
The Biden administration unveiled a plan to lower prescription drug prices for Medicare recipients on Thursday that would include backing a proposal in Congress that enables the federal government to directly negotiate with pharmaceutical companies and then passing those rates on to the private sector.

'High drug prices result in access and affordability challenges for many Americans. Twenty-four percent of adults taking prescription drugs say they are hard to afford, and nearly 10 percent of adults report not taking medication as prescribed in order to save money. Some have died as a result,' the plan's introduction reads.

More than 61.2 million Americans are covered by Medicare, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. That includes people over the age of 65 and younger people with disabilities.

Biden officials have long promised to tackle the issue of rising drug prices as part of the president's Build Back Better agenda.

The new plan led by Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra (right) makes good President Biden's campaign promise to tackle surging prescription drug costs

In the plan released Thursday by the Health and Human Services Department, the Biden administration details executive actions it could take including testing Medicare drug pricing based on the clinical value the drug would provide to patients and federal funding for research into new treatments.

The plan also details guidance for federal agencies and departments that would be affected by the measure going into effect.

Other 'administrative levers' in President Biden's plan include collecting data from insurers to improve transparency on prices and out-of-pocket spending, and helping the Food and Drug Administration break barriers and make it easier for generic drug alternatives to enter the market.

HHS's report includes 'three guiding principles' for reforming drug prices.

In addition to improving price equity throughout the health care system, the department is also looking to improve competition in the pharmaceuticals industry and support public and private research fueling innovation.

It also backs Congressional legislation introduced by Democrats that Biden first urged lawmakers to act on in August.

Americans pay more for prescription drugs than people in any other country in the world

'We're going to provide that competition through Medicare. Medicare is going to negotiate a fair price,' he said. 'Drug companies would have to sell their drugs to all distributors at the Medicare price or face up to a 95 percent excise tax. The savings for employers and employees would be billions of dollars a year.'

The Democrat-backed legislation also includes a cap on out-of-pocket Medicare costs, which it notes is supported by the White House.

Americans pay more for prescription drugs than people in any other country in the world.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers have raised prices on more than 500 medicines, according to an analysis by healthcare research firm 46brooklyn.

A 2020 chart from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation projected total US spending on prescription drugs to hot nearly $600 billion by 2028 if left unchecked.

US healthcare costs per capita are more than $11,000, the same group reported, more than $3,000 higher than the next closest country.

Americans pay more for healthcare than people in any other nation, according to this chat

The Peter G. Peterson Foundation projected total US spending on prescription drugs to hot nearly $600 billion by 2028 if left unchecked

HHS's plan is in response to an executive order Biden announced in July that ordered the federal government to find ways to promote competition in the US economy, including to combat soaring drug prices.

While the administration has lauded drugmakers for their efforts amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it also has highlighted the high costs of medications in the United States compared to other nations.

Pharmaceutical manufacturers have opposed efforts to regulate drug prices, calling them 'misguided' and saying this would stifle innovation.

Eli Lilly & Co. chairman David Ricks called the new plan 'a smokescreen for implementing new government price controls'

Chairman and chief executive of Eli Lilly & Co. David Ricks called the new plan 'a smokescreen for implementing new government price controls,' according to Fox Business.

'We cannot and will not support policies that hurt patient access,' Ricks said.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra defended the administration's plan. He said letting Medicare negotiate for drug prices under Part B - which among other things covers medications used in hospitals and other healthcare settings - would 'make those prices available to other purchasers.'

That could help patients pay less and reduce costs not only for the federal government but also other commercial payers, he said.

The department also said it will test ways to reduce costs under Part D, which covers over-the-counter drugs, through biosimilars and generic drugs.

'By promoting negotiation, competition, and innovation in the healthcare industry, we will ensure cost fairness and protect access to care,' Becerra said.
A medical student at Newcastle University was given a disciplinary 'yellow card' for wearing an 'inappropriate' dress to an exam, despite it being cut below the knee.

The woman, who studies graduate entry medicine, was taking part in a clinical examination when she was allegedly given a 'yellow card' for her 'short skirt'.

The student, who goes by The Graduate Medic on Twitter, said she complained to Newcastle University after getting the disciplinary, but alleged she was told it was 'the most inappropriate dress they had ever seen'.

She claimed she was told that the examiner's word was 'final' and said the investigation into the incident had been closed, adding: 'isn't discrimination lovely'.

Newcastle University have since apologised to the medical student in a social media statement, claiming that the yellow card was rescinded after an investigation earlier this year.

A woman (pictured), who studies graduate entry medicine, was taking part in a clinical examination when she was allegedly given a 'yellow card' for her 'short skirt'

Her case was initially shared on Twitter by her friend, who wrote: 'A friend did their OSCE's [Objective structured clinical examination] with me recently & got yellow carded for wearing a 'short skirt'...

'Could someone explain to me how it's 2021 & medical schools are still pushing sexist notions of primness upon its female student cohort, for daring to display their ankles.'

The post was accompanied by a picture of the dress in question, which was a black V-necked dress that was cut below the knee.

Responding to the tweet, the student in question alleged the complaint stated they would not have wanted her to treat 'their friends or a family member' because she was not wearing 'leg coverings'.

She penned: 'Word for word; "student had short dress with no leg coverings - roleplayer commented immediately station said looked unprofessional and I agree".

'Belittling the situation and the fact that no action has been taken with the examiner, is not an apology.'

The student said she complained to Newcastle University, but alleged she was told it was 'the most inappropriate dress they had ever seen'. Pictured: Dress she was disciplined for wearing

Newcastle University have since apologised to the student in a social media statement, claiming that the yellow card was rescinded after an investigation earlier this year

The medical student alleged the complaint stated that they would not have wanted her to treat 'their friends or a family member' because she was not wearing 'leg coverings'

The woman said although she loves the teaching at Newcastle University, she does not 'respect' the way the situation was handled.

She continued: 'I've done all the right things. I used the process that is specifically created surrounding discriminatory issues.

'I've avoided giving the details of the University/clinician even down to their gender, I haven't posted the damning full response to protect those investigating it.'

The student also claimed she had to lodge a separate concern to deal with the examiner.

She added: 'I was refused the right to not have the examiner again, and the University closed the investigation.'

In a statement on Twitter, Newcastle University said: 'We want to apologise once again to @thegradmedic for any offence or distress caused by this incident.

'The comment was made by a role-play patient as part of an exam. All comments made by patients in exams are passed on to students as feedback.

'However, we agree it should not have resulted in a yellow card from the examiner. This is why, when the concerns were raised with us by @thegradmedic earlier this year, they were investigated and the yellow card was rescinded.

'We would not want any student to come away from these exams feeling remarks like this in any way reflect the values of the University and the issues will be addressed in future examination briefings.'

But the medical student hit back at the university's statement, alleging that she was given no 'verification' that the comments came from the patient.

She said: 'This is infactual information. It came apparently from the patient and examiner alike - I asked for verification that it came from the patient and received none - the investigation started with "we asked the clinician" and ended with that.'

In another tweet, the student said she was in contact with the British Medical Association about the incident and said she was 'disappointed' by the university sharing 'incorrect' information.

Hundreds of Twitter users have since flocked to the woman's defence, with some alleging that the comment and the handling of the situation was 'sexist'.

Hundreds of Twitter users have since flocked to the woman's defence, with some alleging that the comment and the handling of the situation was 'sexist'

One wrote: This is appalling. When I did finals the outfit she was wearing would have been regarded as extremely professional & appropriate.

'It's the length I wore as a junior doctor every single day. That a "patient" was remarking on the "doctors'" legs seems far more inappropriate here.'

Another fumed: 'This is a ridiculous response. My female GP colleagues at work wear similar and no one would think it mattered. This needs challenging, now.

'Because it suggests a misogyny that is permeating that medical school which concerns me greatly. Do not let this lie. Get support.'

A third said: 'The clear consensus is that @UniofNewcastle should unreservedly apologise and sack the role playing people involved and the examiners that didnt speak up'

And a fourth wrote: 'What exactly did the other women wear?? If this is inappropriate?? Its many years since I say my osce but my dress wasnt dissimilar neither was the one I wore for graduation or multiple interviews since??!!! [sic]'

While a fifth tweeted: 'absolutely f**king ridiculous. that dress is smarter clinical dress than what 90% of practicing doctors wear on a daily basis and in no way inappropriate. discrimination at its finest indeed.'

MailOnline has contacted Newcastle University for further comment.
Joe Biden's approval has dropped to an all time low, with only 39 per cent of Americans thinking he is doing a good job as the president even loses favor with his Democratic base.

The Economist/YouGov poll published on Wednesday shows that 50 per cent of respondents either somewhat or strongly disapprove of Biden's job as president.

The president's approval has been on a decline ever since the start of the bungled withdrawal from Afghanistan last month, which ultimately led to the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and left hundreds of U.S. citizens stranded without military evacuation assistance.

Democrats are even turning against the president, with their approval of Biden dropping from 86 per cent in the August 28 poll to 77 per cent on Wednesday. Only 13 per cent of Democrats disapprove of the overall handling of the presidency by Biden.

President Joe Biden's approval hit another all time low, with only 39 per cent overall approval

The new Economist/YouGov poll shows the biggest losses are among Democratic voters as it dropped from 86 per cent approval last month to 77 per cent on Wednesday

The poll analysis notes: 'The drop in Biden's approval rating is most severe among Democrats. Around nine in ten of them had approved of Biden's performance for nearly all of his first year in office.'

The poll also shows that six in 10 Americans feel the country is 'off on the wrong track' with Biden in the White House.

When broken down by party, 51 per cent of Democrats said the country is 'generally headed in the right direction,' compared to the only 9 per cent of Republicans who feel the same way.

The downturn is likely mostly a result of the botched handling of the Afghanistan troop pull out, but could also be related to some of other recent events, like the reversal in COVID-19 mask mandates as vaccination rates plummeted over the summer.

Some recent polls show somewhere between three and four in 10 Americans disapprove of Biden's handling of the withdrawal.

In six swing states  Arizona, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Texas  Biden's approval rating has plummeted by 10 percentage points or more, according to a Civiqs survey taken last week.

The gap is largest in the red state of Texas, where 59 per cent disapprove of Biden's job in he White House compared to the 33 per cent who approve, a 29 per cent difference.

Pennsylvania, where Biden won by less than two points in 2020, shows a 10 per cent gap with 51 per cent disapproval to 41 per cent approval.

California, Hawaii, Maryland Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Vermont are the only states in the poll where Biden's approval was above the 50 per cent mark.

Last month, Biden's average approval ratings, track by FiveThirtyEight and RealClearPolitics, showed the president dipping below 50 per cent approval for the first time in his presidency as he was lambasted for the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Within less than two weeks, the Taliban was able to entirely take over the country, including seizing the capital city Kabul as then-Afghan President Ashraf Ghani fled.

In the Economist/YouGov poll released Wednesday, 1,5000 American adults were surveyed between September 4-7, reaching a week after the total troop withdrawal from Afghanistan. There is a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points.
This is the horrifying moment a 35-year-old man, who was holding hands with his five-year-old son as they shopped at a Mexican store, was shot dead.

Surveillance video released by Hidalgo Market in border town of Tijuana showed the victim and the child looking for a product on one of the store's two isles on Wednesday.

The gunman is spotted standing to the side of an isle near the exit and keeping a close eye on his target while holding a cellphone to his ear.

The assailant subsequently took a couple of steps and opened fire at least twice, Mexican news outlet Milenio reported.

Still image for a security camera inside a market in Tijuana, Mexico, shows the shooter (bottom right) doing surveillance on the 35-year-old man (left) moments before he shot him dead in front of his son on Wednesday

The shooter (right) walked down one of the isles and pointed his gun at the boy's father before he reportedly fired two shots

The man, whose name has not been released, collapsed to the ground as the boy dove for the ground. An individual who happened to be standing next to the boy's father narrowly avoided being shot.

Red Cross paramedics arrived on the scene moments later and declared the man dead.

The murdered father was the third person killed in Tijuana over the last two days.

The assassin (right) rushes out of a Tijuana, Mexico market on Wednesday after he executed a 35-year-old man who was shopping with his son

Hours before he was executed, authorities found the mutilated body of a woman on a street. On Tuesday, assassins ambushed and shot dead a police officer in front of his home.

Government crime stats for Tijuana show that 157 murders were registered in August, increasing the 2021 figures to 1,380 homicides in the first eight months of the year.

The border town registered 2,000 homicides in 2020.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez says she is willing to 'tank' the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill that is a key priority for President Biden if party moderates manage to delink it from a larger $3.5 trillion budget plan that contains her core liberal priorities.

Her blunt statement, issued during a streamed interview from a car where she also weighed in on California politics and other matters, is just the latest sign of the strains between party wings as two centerpiece proposals carrying Biden's agenda advance.

'Nothing would give me more pleasure than to tank a billionaire, dark money, fossil fuel, Exxon lobbyist-drafted 'energy' infrastructure bill if they come after our child care and climate priorities,' she said, ridiculing a traditional infrastructure bill that Biden considers a critical part of his agenda.

'Nothing would give me more pleasure than to tank a billionaire, dark money, fossil fuel, Exxon lobbyist-drafted 'energy' infrastructure bill if they come after our child care and climate priorities,' said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.)

In fact, Biden repeatedly touted the infrastructure bill on a visit to Queens this week, when he toured storm damage alongside the New York lawmaker and vowed to 'build back better' to protect against future storms.

Ocasio-Cortez was laying down a marker after a bitter intra-party fight over advancing a budget resolution that allowed for both pieces of legislation to go forward. Under the deal, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she is committed to passing the bipartisan infrastructure deal  which includes traditional projects like roads and bridges  by Sept. 27th.

A group of Democratic centrists forced the commitment from Pelosi after squawking over the budget blueprint, which passed the House last month on a 220212, allowing for the larger 'reconciliation' bill to advance.

But progressives including AOC are demanding assurances that the larger $3.5 trillion package does not crumble amid some moderate opposition, including in the 50-50 Senate. 'You know the whole thing was a fiasco, to be honest,' fellow 'squad' member Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) said after the deal with centrists.

AOC was responding to a question about whether House progressives are willing to vote against the bipartisan bill.

Many of the left's priorities  like federal paid leave, Medicare expansion including dental benefits, and environmental programs meant to slow carbon emissions, are included in the second 'human infrastructure' bill  although the size of that bill could soon take a hit at the negotiating table.

She also commented on the California recall of Gov. Gavin Newsom, urging people to vote immediately

AOC made the comments from a car, accompanied by her French Bulldog

She fielded questions on numerous topics. 'Does my existence make you mad?' she asked

Ocasio-Cortez blasted a bipartisan traditional infrastructure bill days after President Joe Biden touted it during a visit to her Queens district to dour damage from flooding after Hurricane Ida

Amid a pronounced divide between liberal House Democrats and Manchin over the 'reconciliation' bill, House Majority Whip James C. Clyburn is calling $3.5 trillion a 'ceiling' with room for negotiation.

Clyburn, the number three party leader who was a key ally for Biden during the Democratic primaries, called the figure contained in the House and Senate-passed budget resolutions a 'ceiling'  a term that comports with how the budget process works.

The budget will only allow spending up to that amount to move in a special vehicle that gets protection from a Senate filibuster.

'Even a $3.5 trillion. it's just that  a ceiling,' Clyburn told CNN.

House Dem @WhipClyburn tells Jim @Acosta the $3.5 T figure for budget reconciliation is just a "celling" and not a "floor". Clyburn says there is $2T worth of negotiating room. Worth noting that progressives like @BernieSanders & @AOC have said $3.5 T is already a compromise. pic.twitter.com/JXZiVB73iA  Ryan Nobles (@ryanobles) September 8, 2021

House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.) called the $3.5 trillion the budget provides for a reconciliation bill a 'ceiling' and noted that $2 trillion lies between the ceiling and the $1 trilliong to $1.5 trillion Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) has called for

'No one has ever said that that's the exact number, or that's a floor. It's up to 3.5 trillion. Now I see that Joe Manchin has mentioned a $1.5 trillion number. Well somewhere between 1.5 and 3.5. There is $2 trillion,' he said.

Manchin penned an op-ed where he called for a 'strategic pause' on the key legislation, which includes key Biden priorities including paid leave, extending an expanded child tax credit, expansion of Medicare benefits, and other sweeping measures.

His office indicated that he would accept a total price tag of between $1 trillion and $1.5 trillion.

Progressive House Democrats had pushed for more spending in a package leaders are calling 'transformative' for the US economy. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) had earlier pushed for a $6 trillion package.

Said Clyburn: 'Those $2 trillion are there. And I think that there is a lot of room for people to sit down and negotiate. It may be. And you're sitting around the table, you may not need 3.5 trillion to do what the president wants done and what the country needs done.'

Clyburn made his comments on CNN amid a Democratic clash over the size of a budget reconciliation package

Powerhouse Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) voted for the budget resolution, but called for a 'strategic pause' over the $3.5 trillion package barreling through Congress

The Biden White House wants to bundle an array of top programs in the mammoth bill to get around Senate filibusters

Ways and Means chairman Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) called new paid leave provisions 'one of the most profoundly important pieces of this entire package'

Top Republican on the committee Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas) used his opening remarks Thursday to complain that the 'The mightiest nation on earth just surrendered to terrorists' in Afghanistan

The after making his comments to CNN on the numbers, he said: 'But let's work on it and stay out of all of this negotiating in the media. That's not the way to negotiate. Let's keep this around the table and see what we can come up with.'

Clyburn's comments came as the House Ways & Means Committee began marking up its version of the proposal, as part of the legislative process of designing of what ultimately heads to House floor.

Panel chairman Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) began with the paid leave provisions. 'This is one of the most profoundly important pieces of this entire package,' he said. The bill provides for three months of parental leave, caregiving leave, or leave for a 'serious medical condition.'

'We will make historic investments in clean energy,' he said, while promising, while extending the 'tremendously impactful' extension of the expanded child tax credit, a major feature of the previous $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package.

Top Republican on the committee Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas) used his opening remarks Thursday to complain that the 'The mightiest nation on earth just surrendered to terrorists' in Afghanistan.

Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) countered that it was former President Donald Trump who negotiated with the Taliban and consented to the release of 5,000 Taliban prisoners.

Brady accused Democrats of 'ramming through trillions of wasteful spending and crippling tax hikes,' and said the bill would 'put the IRS in charge of your sick leave.'

Rep. Devin Nunes (R-Calif.) called it a 'left wing spending orgy' with a 'cradle to grave entitlement system.'
A volunteer crossing guard at a California middle school was mowed down and crushed beneath the wheels of an out-of-control SUV as the victim was pulling away children from the vehicle's path in a final act of bravery.

Ashley Dias, 45, a clinical research associate at a biotechnology firm, had been filling in for a fellow volunteer at the Stanley Middle School in Lafayette on Wednesday when the SUV barreled toward a group of children who were crossing the road.

Police have yet to identify the driver of the SUV, but ABC 7 reported that a grandmother picking up a student at the school was behind the wheel.

She has been interviewed by police and is cooperating with the investigation, the TV station said.

Witnesses told the San Francisco Chronicle that Dias - who attended the school as a child - rushed to push the group of students out of the car's reach, sacrificing himself as the SUV knocked him over and dragged his body underneath.

Ashley Dias, right, pictured giving flowers to his mother, Gloria. Dias volunteered as a crossing guard at Stanley Middle School where a car struck him on Wednesday

Police responded to the scene quickly after Dias sacrifices himself to save a group of students

Dias was pinned underneath the SUV, which stuck and dragged his body

The Contra Costa County Sheriff's office said in a statement that residents helped Lafayette officers pull Dias from under the vehicle.

'Officers administered CPR until relieved by fire department personnel. He was later transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.'

One of the children from the school suffered minor injuries and was taken to the hospital as a precaution.

The driver's son declined an interview with the news station but said, 'we are so incredibly sorry and devastated by this unthinkably horrible accident.'

That was no consolation to Dias' parents, Gloria and Fabio Dias, who said they had spoken with their son hours before the accident.

'I met one of the fathers in the hospital. And he said, "Your son saved my daughter's life,''' Gloria Dias said.

'He is a hero and put his life on the line to save a student.'

Dias loved to spend time with his family. He is pictured at the top-center with his brother, left, and father. Dias is in the bottom-right with his brother and mother

Dias loved to go hiking and was described by his family as a gentle and helpful man.

Dias's parents, Fabio and Gloria Dias, are confused as to why the driver did not stop

They described their son as a gentle and helpful man who enjoyed hiking and trying out new foods.

Fabio Dias expressed his frustration at the reckless driver, saying his son's reflective vest and large flag should have let the driver know that the children were crossing.

'And in spite of that, the car comes and hits him and kills him. And I lost my son,' Fabio said. 'He was doing his job as a crossing guard.'

Dias is survived by his parents, two siblings, and his niece. He attended Stanley Middle School before moving on to Acalanes High School in Lafayette, which is located about 30 miles east of San Francisco.
A Texas woman angry about COVID-19 mask mandates has filmed herself verbally harassing a county judge at a grocery store, calling him a supporter of the devil and a traitor who should be hanged.

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, 80, was the victim of the verbal abuse while he was grocery shopping at an H-E-B grocery store in San Antonio on Sunday.

Wolff's position as a county judge is an executive role, and he is the ceremonial head of the county government. Bexar County includes the city of San Antonio.

In August, Wolff and San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg defied Texas Governor Gregg Abbott's order prohibiting mask mandates, and ordered masks to be worn in all local and county facilities.

Wolff has also pushed for mask mandates to be implemented in schools  much to the disapproval of those who oppose wearing face coverings.

In the video, which was posted on Instagram under the handle ashleyrockshair, the confrontation started when the woman follows Wolff towards the store's exit.

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolf is confronted at a H-E-B grocery store in San Antonio by a woman who calls him a traitor who should be hanged in furious rant about masks

Judge Nelson Wolff (pictured) has been criticized for defying Governor Gregg Abbott's order prohibiting mask mandates by ordering masks to be worn in all local and county facilities.

Wolff's position as a county judge is an executive role, and he is the ceremonial head of the county government

'How much did the CDC people pay you,' the woman said before going on to call Wolf a 'communist', 'traitor', and a 'devil worshipper.'

As she trails behind Wolff, a masked H-E-B employee comes up to speak with her.

'You're a traitor, too,' she tells him, before turning her attention back to the judge.

She continues to pursue Wolff through the parking lot, yelling at him the whole time.

'How are you going to support the devil and not God? Straight communism,' she yelled.

Unmoved by the woman's remarks, Wolff goes about loading his groceries as the accusations continue.

The woman kept on following Wolff to his car after verbally abusing him at the exit of the grocery store

Unmoved by the woman's remarks, Wolff goes about loading his groceries as the accusations continue.

'You're going to go to jail, they're going to hang you. Treason, crimes against humanity, Nuremberg trial. You're going down,' the woman said.

'You better enjoy your freedom while it lasts, buddy, and you got to answer to God.'

At that, she walked away, ending a tirade that lasted roughly 3 minutes and 30 seconds.

The video was later posted on Instagram by the woman herself, a hair stylist who goes by the name Ashley Rocks on the platform, describing herself as a 'patriot to the core' in her bio.

'Don't let these communist traitors walk the streets,' she writes in the video's caption.

'Know who stands for freedom, this man does not. He does not care about you, your family or your business. Stand up, your life depends on it!'

This is the second public incident Wolff has been involved in over face wearing.

In June last year, Wolff was in a checkout line at a Lowes home improvement store when a cashier told a customer that wearing a mask was required.

That customer got upset, so Wolff decided to intervene.

Pictured: Bexar County Sheriff's Office, where a 47-year-old Texas man - Terry Toller - turned himself in after allegedly smacking the hand of a judge during a row

The judge tried to hand the customer a business card, and the man smacked the business card out of Wolffs hand.

The man involved was arrested, and he was charged with disorderly conduct, a misdemeanor.

Wolff shared a statement with McClatchy News regarding the second-time incident, urging the public to continue wearing masks and follow other measures designed to stop the spread of the virus.

'I realize, after a year and a half, we all are experiencing COVID fatigue from wearing masks and other public health guidelines. Now is not the time to stop and let our guard down,' the statement said.

'Our numbers are coming down slowly. Let's keep this downward trend going. Mask up, keep social distance, and sanitize.'

Wolff has not responded to Dailymail.com's request to comment any further.

Bexar County has reported 8,258 cases of Covid in the last seven days, with a positivity rate of 8.5percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There have been 164 deaths from the virus in the last week - up 13.1 percent on the previous seven days.

There were 1,025 new hospital admissions for Covid, with 41.5 percent of intensive care beds filled.

At least 58 percent of Texas's population received one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and nearly 49 percent have received both doses.

The number of U.S. infections per day in August and September have fluctuated with a recent spike as of September 9
A grand jury has decided not to bring murder charges against a 15-year-old boy who shot and killed his abusive father because he'd 'had enough' of watching him beat up his mother.

Tucker Gales shot his father Wesley last October after watching him punch his mother Deborah and kick her in the head in their home on the outskirts of Augusta, Georgia.

The 15-year-old used a .22 rifle and shot his father, who'd been arrested for domestic abuse multiple times, in the head.

When sheriffs arrived at the home, Tucker admitted that he'd shot his father.

He said he'd 'had enough' of seeing him beat his mother, and that he also suffered abuse from him.

Tucker Gales shot his father Wesley last October after watching him punch his mother Deborah and kick her in the head in their home on the outskirts of Augusta, Georgia. He is shown in a photo shared by family and friends, left, and in his mugshot, right

The teen was arrested for murder and taken to jail but was granted bond and allowed to return home while prosecutors weighed whether or not to charge him.

The case was turned over to a grand jury, but that grand jury decided on Wednesday not to bring charges against the teenager.

Wesley Gales had been arrested for domestic violence on multiple occasions. He was an alcoholic and beat his ex-wife in front of their son regularly

District Attorney Bobby Christine said that the decision represented 'the combined wisdom of our community'.

Friends of the family had launched petitions and a GoFundMe page asking for donations to help the teenager with a potential legal fund.

The page raised $10,000 of its $75,000 target.

Previous local media reports describe some of the abuse Wesley subject his ex-wife, Deborah, too.

In one instance of abuse, he kicked her in the groin and punched her.

Sarah Hensley, the mother of one of Tucker's friends, told WJBF previously: 'For a 15-year-old boy that situation seems hopeless and he felt that he had to take matters into is own hands and our hearts are breaking for him.

'I think our community needs to rally around him and show how much he's loved and to not be ashamed.'

Another friend said he would often show up at school with bruises on his arms.
A black family has claimed they were racially profiled and falsely accused of stealing while on a Labor Day trip to an apple picking farm.

In a blog post which has gone viral, Reverend Manikka Bowman and Jeff Myers claimed that staff at Connors Farm in Danvers, Massachusetts, accused them of having 'concealed fruit' in their stroller and called the police.

The couple had been on an apple picking trip with their seven-year-old daughter and 18-month-old son when the mood 'dramatically changed.'

Bowman and Myers alleged that the manager 'jumped straight to an assumption of theft' - but their children had picked six extra apples worth $4 without them realizing and they intended to pay for them.

The couple claimed that the police officer who arrived at the scene was unsympathetic and told them they had 'played the race card.'

The alleged incident is the latest example of black people claiming they were unfairly targeted for the color of their skin in incidents that have gone viral on social media.

Bowman and Myers are demanding an apology from Connors Farm and are asking that they and the Danvers Police Department 'undergo diversity, equity, and inclusion training.'

Reverend Manikka Bowman and Jeff Myers claim that they were racially profiled and accused of stealing at Connors Farm in Danvers, Massachusetts over Labor Day weekend. The couple had been on an apple picking trip with their seven-year-old daughter and 18-month-old son when they say the mood 'dramatically changed'

On Facebook, Bowman said that the 'day started off with family fun and turned into trauma we will never forget'. In their post, the couple wrote they went through the 'traumatic experience of being falsely accused of stealing apples and to boot, they accused us of stealing while we were on our way to their farm store to buy more stuff, to spend more money at their establishment'

The couple, who are black, said staff at Connors Farm accused them of having 'concealed fruit' in their stroller and called the police. They alleged that the manager 'jumped straight to an assumption of theft' after their children had picked six extra apples worth $4 without them realizing

DailyMail.com has reached out to Bowman and Myers for comment as well as the Danvers Police Department and Connors Farm, which has been in operation since 1904.

On her Facebook page, Bowen has posted about being proud to get her Covid-19 vaccine and has uploaded pictures of her with Mass. Senator Elizabeth Warren

The farm's Facebook page made no comment on the incident and instead wrote a post that said that it's 'orchard is overflowing with apples.'

The post added: 'Everybody is welcome at Connors Farm.

'Just a friendly reminder that we reserve the right to inspect all backpacks, bags and strollers that exit our orchard.'

Among those commenting on the post was Colleen Duley Puzzo who said: 'This is a pretty disgusting response. Have been going to Connors for a few years now and will need to find another place.'

But Nancy Josselin wrote: 'I was in the store when this incident occurred. She was the one that was upsetting her children and just about everyone else in the store. She was asked to pay for the apples she picked and went on a screaming rampage,'

Bowman, 41, is the vice chair of the Cambridge School Committee and, according to public records, director of the Cambridge Young Women's Christian Association.

On her Facebook page, she has posted about being proud to get her Covid-19 vaccine and has uploaded pictures of her with Mass. Senator Elizabeth Warren.

Myers, 43, is deputy director of portfolio and asset management at the Massachusetts Port Authority and is understood to be Bowman's husband.

On Facebook Bowman said that the 'day started off with family fun and turned into trauma we will never forget.'

In their post, the couple wrote they went through the 'traumatic experience of being falsely accused of stealing apples and to boot, they accused us of stealing while we were on our way to their farm store to buy more stuff, to spend more money at their establishment'.

The couple said it was their first time visiting Connors Farm and they 'instantly loved it' and were thinking about having their daughter's next birthday there.

They spent more than $100 on admission, fruit picking and fruit and snacks and even donated to a scholarship fund that the farm runs.

According to the Connors Farm website, it has 140 acres on which it grows crops like corn, tomatoes, raspberries and squash

The farm's Facebook page made no comment on the incident and instead wrote a post that said that it's 'orchard is overflowing with apples'

Commenters were divided over the incident, with many admonishing the farm for ignoring it. But Nancy Josselin wrote: 'I was in the store when this incident occurred. She was the one that was upsetting her children and just about everyone else in the store. She was asked to pay for the apples she picked and went on a screaming rampage'

Bowman wrote: 'As we were leaving the apple orchard area and heading toward the farm store, I assessed our bag to ensure the apples and peaches fit in it.

'I realized that our little ones, in their apple-picking excitement, had picked up a few more apples than fit in the bag. I assumed we'd have a chance to pay for the extras in our final checkout. With families being primary customers, surely, we couldn't be the first to have excitedly over-picked by a few apples - six in our case.

'We planned to purchase our apple cider donuts to finish our trip with this New England tradition. This is where things took a turn for the worse'.

Before they got to the farm store a security guard 'stopped us for having too many apples that were not in the designated apple bag that we had paid for,' the post said.

The bag had been placed in the bottom of their stroller, fallen over and some of the fruit had fallen out.

Another security guard joined in and 'escorted' the family to the farm store building and searched Bowman's purse for more 'concealed fruit', the post aid.

The post said: 'Of course, there wasn't any! I asked the person why were we being treated this way? And did they treat other guests this way?'

A third employee came over and it became clear they were 'accusing our family of stealing.'

The couple wrote that they felt 'outrage' and 'embarrassment' at the 'false accusation.'

When they asked for the owner's information, the third employee, who claimed he was the manager, called the police.

According to the post, the officer who arrived was 'tempered' but despite the couple's 'visible frustration' and efforts to explain themselves he 'never took our position seriously.'

The post says: 'Rather, his actions and words assumed that the manager's narrative was accurate and then accused us of 'playing the race card'.

'And he did so even as the manager made questionable assertions, including that if we did not pay for the apples, Connors Farm could not resell them because we had already picked them. Really? Connors Farm literally sells buckets of apples destined to be shot out of cannons and explode on contact with a target. Is this how Danvers treats its visitors?'

The post says that the couple asked themselves whether 'our skin color had influenced their thinking' and whether they were 'presumed guilty because we are an African American family.'

Bowman, 41, is the vice chair of the Cambridge School Committee and, according to public records, director of the Cambridge Young Women's Christian Association. Myers, 43, is deputy director of portfolio and asset management at the Massachusetts Port Authority and is understood to be Bowman's husband

The post says that the couple asked themselves whether 'our skin color had influenced their thinking' and whether they were 'presumed guilty because we are an African American family'

The manager failed to 'provide paying customers with customer service' and instead said: 'It's my responsibility to prevent stealing.'

The post says 'By jumping straight to an assumption of theft, Connors Farm created a scene, harassing us and causing our seven-year-old to burst into tears, anguish that lasted well into the evening.'

When the couple got home they realized that the farm had overcharged them for the extra fruit - and that the six apples would have cost just $4.

The post lists four demands to correct the 'horrible experience.'

They are: a written apology from Connors Farm owners, a refund of the money they spent and the money donated to a local community foundation supporting racial equity work, and a commitment that Connors staff and the Danvers Police Department will undergo diversity training.

According to the Connors Farm website, it has 140 acres on which it grows crops like corn, tomatoes, raspberries and squash.

Tickets for entry to the seven acre corn maze and 'farm themed areas' are $18.99 on holidays like Labor Day.

The last time the farm made headlines was in 2011 when a family got so lost in its maze they called 911 for help.

Dozens of people vented their anger at the post by Connors Farm which they called 'tone deaf'.

Patti Singleton wrote: 'Boycott Connors Farm. Racial profiling is unacceptable. Choose another farm to go apple picking. The NE has many beautiful apple farms to choose from!'

Susan Alpert Lippman wrote: 'Apple picking while black. Add it to the list'

Liana Ann wrote: 'THIS is how you respond? You really are low class, vile people. How disgusting!
Michigan officials are demanding more than $200,000 in legal fees from pro-Trump lawyers led by Sidney Powell who unsuccessfully tried to overturn the 2020 election result with a lawsuit dismissed as full of conspiracies, it emerged on Thursday.

Last month, U.S. District Judge Linda Parker ruled that state and local election officials could claim reimbursement of their legal fees.

The judge will now review the $200,000 in requests submitted to the court on Wednesday.

In an August ruling, Parker laid bare her anger about what she said was a sham lawsuit intended to deceive the court and the public.

'Despite the haze of confusion, commotion and chaos counsel intentionally attempted to create by filing this lawsuit, one thing is perfectly clear: Plaintiffs attorneys have scorned their oath, flouted the rules, and attempted to undermine the integrity of the judiciary along the way,' Parker wrote in a blistering 110-page opinion.

'Sanctions are required to deter the filing of future frivolous lawsuits designed primarily to spread the narrative that our election processes are rigged and our democratic institutions cannot be trusted.'

Sidney Powell, Lin Wood and other attorneys face a bill for as much as $200,000 after a judge said they must meet the legal bills of state and local election officials stemming from their unsuccessful legal challenge to President Biden's 2020 victory

Lin Wood is one of the lawyers who headed up legal challenges to the 2020 election result

Trump lost to Biden by 154,000 votes in Michigan in last year's election. Pro-Trump lawyers brought a lawsuit on behalf of six Republican voters but it was dismissed in December

Their lawsuit was filed days after Biden's 154,000-vote victory was certified.

It was brought to the court on behalf of six Republican voters who wanted Parker to decertify Michigan's results and impound voting machines. The judge declined in December, calling the request 'stunning in its scope and breathtaking in its reach.'

It was one of four legal actions by Powell collectively known as the 'Kraken' lawsuits, including allegations that George Soros, Venezuela and China among others tried to tamper with US voting machines.

Parker ordered that each of nine pro-Trump lawyers - including Powell, a former campaign lawyer for Trump, and prominent litigator Lin Wood - receive 12 hours of legal education, including six hours of election law.

They also face possible disciplinary action in the states where they are licensed.

Parker also ordered the attorneys - including Powell, a former campaign lawyer for Trump, and prominent litigator Lin Wood - to pay back the legal fees the city of Detroit and Michigan state officials spent while seeking sanctions.

Most of the $200,000 was requested by the City of Detroit, which said it spent about $180,000 on a private law firm - which charged $325 an hour for its senior partners - to help fight the case. The office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel also for about $20,000.

Wood (pictured with Trump in March 2020) and Powell are not the first attorneys to be punished over their 2020 lawsuits. Rudy Giuliani had his law license temporarily suspended in New York and Washington D.C. for his election fraud lawsuits

Powell made clear she would fight the costs.

'The fees sought against us by the City of Detroit were completely self-inflicted. The City was not a party in the case but intervened to create litigation,' she said in a statement to the Detroit Free Press.

'We will indeed appeal. The judge's opinion is riddled with error of fact and law.'

It is the latest blow to the rag tag band of lawyers who tried to overturn Trump's defeat.

Rudy Giuliani had his law license temporarily suspended in New York and Washington D.C. for his election fraud lawsuits.

Giuliani, Powell and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell are being sued by Dominion Voting Systems for 2020 fraud claims centering around their equipment.

Dominion is seeking $1.3 billion from each of them in separate lawsuits.

Last month, all three Trump allies lost a bid to dismiss those suits in a US district court.

'But it is simply not the law that provably false statements cannot be actionable if made in the context of an election,' Judge Carl Nichols said in a statement.
The Department of Justice sued Texas Thursday over its restrictive new abortion law  which Attorney General Merrick Garland branded as 'clearly unconstitutional' for violating Supreme Court precedents protecting a woman's right to an abortion.

Garland blasted the new law, SB 8, at a press conference at the Justice Department, where he said the US was seeking a preliminary and a permanent injunction to prevent state officials from enforcing the new law.

He slammed what he called an 'unprecedented scheme to in the chief justices words insulate the state from responsibility  and singled out provisions that allow individuals under the new statute to sue abortion providers or those who aid or abet a woman who gets an abortion. State residents can seek up to $10,000 from such individuals who assist an abortion after a fetus reaches six weeks, in a mechanism lawmakers used to get around potential legal hurdles.

He was referencing a dissent by Chief Justice John Roberts, who called out the provision. 'The statute deputizes all private citizens without any showing of personal connection or injury to serve as bounty hunters,' Garland added.

Attorney General Merrick Garland branded a new Texas abortion law that outlaws the procedure at six weeks as 'clearly unconstitutional'

Garland said the law does not rely on Texas executive branch to enforce the law, 'as is the norm in Texas and everywhere else.'

The AG was picking up language employed by Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor in a furious dissent, which said the law 'deputized the state's citizens as bounty hunters, offering them cash prizes for civilly prosecuting their neighbors' medical procedures.'

His attacks on the law came after the Supreme Court last week allowed the to go into effect with a late night 5-4 decision denying an emergency appeal while its most controversial provisions get litigated  without issuing a stay that would stall enforcement. The majority wrote that it was not purporting to issue a ruling on the substance of the law.

Abortion rights advocates called it the beginning of the undermining of Roe. v. Wade by the Court's bolstered conservative majority.

'The Act is clearly unconstitutional under longstanding Supreme Court precedent. Those precedents hold in the words of Planned Parenthood v. Casey that "A state may not prohibit any woman from making the ultimate decision to terminate her pregnancy before viability,"' said Garland.

'SB 8 bans nearly all abortions int he state after six weeks of pregnancy, before many women even know they are pregnant, and months before a pregnancy is viable,' Garland said. 'It does so even in cases of rape, sexual abuse, or incest.'

Garland's denunciation of the new law came after the White House hammered Texas Gov. Greg Abbott over his comments made during a signing ceremony  when brushed off a question about its lack of an exception for rape and incest by saying the state would 'eliminate' all rapists.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) came under fire after responding to a question about the law's lack of an exception for rape or incest. 'Rape is a crime , and Texas will work tirelessly to make sure that we eliminate all rapists from the streets of Texas,' he said

This April 19, 2019, file photo shows a Planned Parenthood building in Houston. The Guttmacher Institute estimated the average Texas woman would have to drive 248 miles, up from 12, to get an abortion

A reporter asked Abbott why the state would 'force' victims of heinous sex crimes like rape and incest to give birth.

'It doesn't require that at all, because obviously it provides at least six weeks for a person to be able to get an abortion,' Abbott replied. 'That said, however, let's make something very clear - rape is a crime, and Texas will work tirelessly to make sure that we eliminate all rapists from the streets of Texas.'

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki responded Wednesday: 'If Governor Abbott has a means of eliminating all rapists or all rape from the United States, then there would be bipartisan support for that. But given there has never in history of the country, in the world, been any leader who's ever been able to eliminate rape, eliminate rapists from our streets, it's even more imperative, it's one of the many reasons I should say, not the only reason, why women in Texas have access to health care.'

The White House has avoided providing specifics about how it would respond to the new law, often pointing to the Justice Department and saying the agency would act independently.

But Biden issued his own blistering statement last week in response to the law. 'This law is so extreme it does not even allow for exceptions in the case of rape or incest,' he wrote. He said he would direct government lawyers 'to launch a whole-of-government effort to respond to this decision' and to ensure that women in Texas have access to safe and legal abortions as protected by Roe [v. Wade], and what legal tools we have to insulate women and providers from the impact of Texas bizarre scheme of outsourced enforcement to private parties.'

Outside conservative legal groups have accused Biden of politicizing the agency he vowed to reform after former President Donald Trump repeatedly calling for investigations of political enemies, with Jessica Anderson, executive director of Heritage Action calling the agency 'the most political and weaponized DOJ.'

Vice President Kamala Harris said Thursday the nation needs to 'codify' Roe v. Wade through legislation.

She called SB8 an 'abortion bounty law empowering vigilantes.'

Said NARAL Pro-Choice America in a statement: 'This draconian, dystopian ban on abortion is in open defiance of the Constitution

The DOJ on Thursday sued Texas after President Joe Biden vowed to challenge a new law that almost entirely bans abortion in the state, as Democrats fear the right to abortion established 50 years ago may be at risk.

Full details of the lawsuit challenging the state law in federal court were not immediately available in a court filing system.

The U.S. Supreme Court last week https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/texas-six-week-abortion-ban-takes-effect-2021-09-01 let stand the Texas law banning abortion after about six weeks of pregnancy, before many woman realize they are pregnant. The decision represented a major victory for social conservatives who have been trying to ban the procedure since the court's 1973 Roe v. Wade decision established the constitutional right to abortion.

Biden has warned the law would cause "unconstitutional chaos https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-supreme-court-declines-block-texas-abortion-ban-2021-09-02 " because it relies on private citizens to enforce it by filing civil lawsuits against people who help a woman obtain an abortion after six weeks, whether it be a doctor who performs the procedure or a cabbie who drives a woman to a clinic.

The law allows the people who sue to receive bounties of at least $10,000 and makes no exceptions in cases of rape or incest, although there are some very narrowly defined exemptions for the mother's health. Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott defended the law this week, saying that the state would "eliminate all rapists."

The Supreme Court's decision not to block the Texas law left abortion-rights activists worried that the court, on which conservatives hold a 6-3 majority, may be open to overturning Roe when it hears a case involving a Mississippi abortion ban later this year.

The action marked the second major lawsuit the Biden administration has filed this year trying to block a move by a Republican-controlled state government. The Justice Department sued https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-sue-georgia-over-restrictive-new-state-voting-law-source-2021-06-25 Georgia in June, challenging the state's sweeping new voting law.

In another sign of the administration's abortion-rights push, Vice President Kamala Harris was due to meet with abortion and reproductive health providers and patients on Thursday.

Attorney General Merrick Garland earlier this week foreshadowed that the Justice Department could intervene https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-justice-dept-says-will-protect-texas-abortion-clinics-that-come-under-attack-2021-09-06, saying the department would "protect those seeking to obtain or provide reproductive health services" through a 1994 law known as the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.

The FACE Act prohibits the use of force and physical obstruction to interfere with a person obtaining or providing reproductive health services.

Because it takes several weeks before pregnancy can even be detected on a standard urine test, the Texas law means that women there could have just a one- or two-week window to seek an abortion before being banned from doing do. Some 85% to 90% of abortion procedures take place after six weeks of pregnancy, and leaving the ban in place could cause clinics to close, abortion-rights groups warned.

A majority of Americans believe abortion should be legal, according to Reuters/Ipsos polling. Some 52% said it should be legal in most or all cases, with just 36% saying it should be illegal in most or all cases.

But it remains a deeply polarizing issue, with a majority of Democrats supporting abortion rights and a majority of Republicans opposing them. (Reporting by Sarah N. Lynch, additional reporting by Jan Wolfe; Editing by Scott Malone and Cynthia Osterman)
A former Marine sharp shooter Bryan Riley, 33, killed a Florida family because God told him to confront them after believing the 11-year-old had been trafficked and was suicidal

The former Marine sharpshooter who murdered a Florida family believed their daughter was sex trafficked and suicidal and claimed God told him to confront them, officials say.

The 11-year-old girl - who remains unnamed and is the only surviving victim of Bryan Riley's massacre - was not trafficked and was living with her family, according to Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd.

'This was all fiction, all made up by him,' Judd said. 'There were no victims of sex trafficking in that house.'

Riley, 33, who faces murder and other charges in Sunday's killings, stopped by the slain family's Lakeland home briefly the day before after going to a nearby friend's house to pick up a first aid kit, Judd said at a news conference.

The former Marine, beset by delusions of child sex trafficking, ultimately led to the massacre of four members of a Florida family, including a mother holding her baby boy, a sheriff said Thursday.

Riley had told acquaintances he was headed for Hurricane Ida relief work and the friend offered the kit for the purported trip. A short distance away, Riley saw Justice Gleason mowing his lawn with his 11-year-old daughter in the yard, Judd said.

That provided the trigger that led to the slayings, Judd said: Riley saw the girl, believing she was an imaginary child named Amber who was suicidal and being held by a supposed sex trafficking ring that God had told him to confront. In fact, no one named Amber lived at the home and Gleason repeatedly told Riley that before asking him to leave their initial encounter.

Riley, who is seen being led out of the Polk County Sheriff's Office, will face his arraignment hearing on October 12 and could face the death penalty for the murders of Justice Gleason, 43, Theresa Lanham, 33, their baby boy, Jody, who was born in May, and Catherine Delgado, 62

Riley shot 11-year-old several times in the legs and she remains hospitalized at Tampa General Hospital where she is in stable condition after four surgeries and is expected to make a full recovery, according to Judd.

She told investigators that her family huddled in a bathroom after Riley shot his way into the home, killed their dog and then attacked everyone hiding there. Riley repeatedly asked about Amber and then counted down - three, two, one - before shooting her and eventually leaving her for dead, she told authorities.

Judd said the girl played dead and was able to survive despite wounds to her legs, hand and abdomen.

'That's the reason she's alive today,' the sheriff said.

Gleason, Lanham, and Jody (pictured), alongside Delgado - Lanham's mother - were killed. Their 11-year-old daughter, who renames unnamed and who Riley thought was Amber, survived and is being hospitalized for gun shot wounds. She claimed 'playing dead' is what saved her life

Judd provided numerous new details about Sunday's slayings, including that Riley, wearing body armor, had three weapons with him and fired at least 100 shots in the main home and a smaller one in back where Catherine Delgado, 62, was the first to be killed.

Riley barricaded himself inside the house as police arrived, wearing body armor, but was shot once and then surrendered without his weapon. On Monday he appeared before a judge to face 17 counts, and was denied bail.

Law enforcement officers fired about 60 shots on Sunday in a gun battle that left Riley with a gunshot wound to the abdomen that is not life-threatening, Judd said. Riley surrendered after that.

'He was a coward. An absolute coward. He looks like a man, but he's not a man. He's a sniveling coward,' Judd told reporters.

Bullet holes can be seen in the windows. Riley reportedly shot 100 times and the police shot 60 rounds

Officers from Polk County can be seen working outside the home

The victims are Gleason, 40, his girlfriend Theresa Lanham, 33, their baby boy, Jody, who was born in May, and Delgado, who was Lanham's mother and owned the property. They possessed no weapons.

Jody died in Lanham's arms.

When he was previously asked by police why he shot the baby, Riley responded: 'Because I'm a sick guy. I want to confess to all of it and be sent to jail,' according to the affidavit obtained by the Washington Post.

In addition, the victims reportedly begged Riley to stop as he continued shooting, the affidavit says he told officers.

Riley allegedly told investigators that 'they begged for their lives and I killed them anyway.'

Miguel Rivera of Lakeland, Florida, was neighbors with the family and heard banging on the sliding door of his home. No one was there when he answered, but speculated he could have died if he did

Authorities said Riley set fire to a nearby pickup truck (pictured) as an 'exit strategy'

Riley also told them he set a nearby pickup truck on fire as an 'exit strategy.'

A neighbor to the family also feared he would have been the victim of Riley's deadly rampage if he answered the knocking on his door before he left.

Miguel Rivera, of Lakeland, Florida, heard the pounding on his sliding door early on Sunday before the mass shooting occurred.

Even though no was there by the time Rivera responded to the knock, he believes that he might have been another one of alleged shooter Bryan Riley's victims if he had gotten there sooner.

'I pray to God every day I am alive still,' Rivera told the Associated Press on Tuesday.

Riley served as a Marine in Iraq and Afghanistan and was working as a security guard in the Lakeland area, including at a church. After that recent job, his girlfriend of four years told investigators, Riley began talking about communication with God but not about violence.

'No one has told us they knew anything about violence,' Judd said.

Riley is recovering from his gunshot wound and is being held without bond on murder, attempted murder and other charges. An October 12 arraignment date is set for him to enter a plea. Judd said he has already confessed to the crimes, which could bring the death penalty.

Investigators also have not yet verified Riley's post-arrest statement to officers that he was high on methamphetamines at the time of the shooting. No evidence of that drug has been found, although Judd said illegal steroids where found at Riley's home in Brandon and hospital blood tests could reveal more.

'This investigation is not near over. This is going to go on for weeks and weeks and weeks,' the sheriff said. 'This mass murder is exceptionally horrible.'
A Swiss bodybuilder contacted Kobe Bryant out of the blue and offered to murder his rape accuser for $3million in 2003, according to an FBI report which has been unsealed 18 years later.

The 17-page, heavily-redacted report was posted to the FBI's vault website this months - almost two decades after the offer was made.

Bodybuilder Patrick Graber's name is redacted from the report - but was sentenced to three years in prison in 2004 over the scheme and was ordered to be deported.

The report details how Graber sent the Los Angeles Lakers' star a letter offering his services in a murder-for-hire plot.

He allegedly wrote 'he could make Bryant's problem with respect to the sexual assault case go away for a fee.'

Bryant's security and legal teams immediately alerted the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, according to the documents, and Graber was arrested in a sting operation.

Bryant - who died in a helicopter crash along with his daughter Gianna and seven others in January 2020 - was arrested and charged in 2003 after a 19-year-old woman accused him of rape in a Colorado hotel room.

Patrick Graber, a Swiss bodybuilder, was sentenced to three years in prison in 2004 over his plot to kill LA Lakers' star Kobe Bryant's rape accuser, and was ordered to be deported

Bryant was charged in 2003 with rape after having sex with a 19-year-old hotel employee in Eagle, Colorado. He is pictured here at the time with his attorney, Pamela Mackey

The charges were later dropped after she refused to appear in court. A civil lawsuit was settled out of court, with Bryant apologizing but not admitting guilt.

It is unclear why the murder-for-hire documents are now being made public on the FBI's Vault website, a Freedom of Information Act library containing 6,700 documents and other media that have been scanned from paper into digital copies.

But, the website notes, new files are being added to the site on a regular basis.

According to the newly-released documents, Graber mailed Bryant an offer to kill Bryant's accuser for $3 million via Federal Express.

Bryant's security and legal teams then contacted the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department, and federal officials notified his accuser of the alleged threat.

An undercover LA County Sheriff's Department detective then met with Graber twice and recorded him saying he had a team that could 'execute Bryant's accuser leaving no evidence.'

He also allegedly said he could 'influence the victim' in the trial, and if that didn't work he would 'go all the way to remove the witness.'

Graber, who also worked as a security guard for celebrities, reportedly used the name 'Yuri' in his dealings with undercover officers.

He claimed he had ties to organized crime - possibly the Russian mafia - but detectives did not find any evidence he had those ties.

A search warrant was also served to a California residence, and firearms were found.

A subsequent investigation found that Graber, then 31, had been in the United States for about two years on an expired visa, according to the Los Angeles Daily News.

Graber was arrested on September 18, 2003 after authorities agreed to pay him for the plot with prop money from Hollywood movie sets.

The charges against him were ultimately dropped after his accuser refused to testify

He reportedly tried to reach for the bag of fake money, and was immediately surrounded by more than 30 officers.

He pleaded no contest to grand theft in April 2004, after prosecutors dropped several charges, including solicitation to commit murder, and he was ordered to be deported after his release, ESPN reported at the time.

The newly-released documents also contained interviews with neighbors and co-workers of Graber, one of whom told the FBI on October 2, 2003 he was a member of Gold's Gym in Venice, California, where Bryant also trained.

The witness said he was '99 percent sure [the suspect] did not run into Bryant at Gold's Gym when he trained.'

And a neighbor reported seeing Graber unload a large cardboard box from his car that displayed a 'Winchester' or 'Remington' label he believed contained a shotgun or a rifle.

'[The neighbor] did not know [the suspect] well enough to joke with him, but asked if he was going to shoot him with that,' the documents say.

'[The suspect] appeared to think the comment was funny and chuckled.'

Bryant admitted to having sex with the 19-year-old in his hotel room at The Lodge and Spa at Cordillera in Eagle, Colorado, where he was undergoing knee surgery.

She was working as a front-desk clerk at the time, and accompanied Bryant on a tour of the property and later went to Bryant's hotel room where she said he raped her.

Bryant was charged with one count of felony assault.

He admitted to having sex with the woman, but claimed it was consensual.

But soon, the Los Angeles Times reports, questions started to emerge in the case, and the accuser reportedly appeared unprepared to take the stand.

When she ultimately refused to testify, the charges against Bryant were dropped, and a settlement in a civil case against him was later reached.

He later apologized for the interaction, but never admitted guilt.

In a news conference after the criminal case was dismissed, he said: 'First I want to apologize directly to the young woman involved in this incident.

'I want to apologize to her for my behavior that night and for the consequences she has suffered in the past year. Although this past year has been incredibly difficult for me personally, I can only imagine the pain she has had to endure.

'I also want to apologize to her friends and family members and to my family and friends and supporters and to the citizens of Eagle, Colorado

'I also want to make it clear that I do not question the motives of this young woman.

'No money has been paid to this woman,' he said at the time. 'She has agreed that this statement will not be used against me in the civil case.

'Although I truly believe this encounter between us was consensual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this incident the same way I did.

'After months of reviewing discovery, listening to her attorney and even her testimony in person, I now understands how she feels that she did not consent to this encounter.

'I issue this statement today fully aware that while one part of this ends today, another remains.

'I understand that the civil case against me will go forward.

'That part of this case will be decided by and between the parties directly involved in the incident and will no longer be a financial or emotional drain on the citizens of the state of Colorado.'
The White House confirmed Thursday that President Joe Biden will travel to California Monday to campaign for Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who's facing voters in a recall election the next day.

Before participating in a Long Beach rally, which was first reported by the LA Times, Biden will observe wildfire damage in Sacramento.

En route to the west coast, Biden will stop in Boise, Idaho where he will visit the National Interagency Fire Center. He'll participate in a 'Build Back Better' event in Denver, Colorado on the way back.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki was asked at Thursday's briefing why it was important for Biden to go on the campaign trail amid a continued COVID crisis.

'Because the election is Tuesday,' Psaki curtly replied.

'I would say that the president remains quite popular in California, as he does in Virginia and other states where there are competitive elections this year and certainly we don't campaign in states where we are not wanted, but hopefully this will be helpful in the efforts of the governor,' she added.

The White House confirmed Thursday that President Joe Biden (left) will travel to California Monday to campaign for Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom (right), who's facing voters in a recall election the next day

Biden will be on hand to make a final push for Newsom before the September 14 recall election wraps up.

The latest polls show Newsom is on track to survive the recall effort, which was hatched by Republicans over his coronavirus restrictions.

On the ballot, California voters are being asked should Newsom be recalled and who should replace him.

California's Democratic Party is instructing voters to vote 'no' on the first question and leave the second question blank.

If more than 50 per cent of voters vote 'yes' on the first question, the top vote-getter then becomes governor.

FiveThirtyEight.com's compilation of polls show 54.3 per cent of California voters support keeping Newsom, versus the 42 per cent who want to remove him.

Among the Republicans running to replace Newsom, surveys show conservative talk show host Larry Elder has the best shot.

However, Elder has made a number of controversial statements in recent days, including that slave owners could be entitled reparations.

'Their legal property was taken away from them after the Civil War, so you could make an argument that the people that are owed reparations are not only just Black people but also the people whose "property" was taken away after the end of the Civil War,' Elder said on Prager University's The Candace Owens Show.

Democrats have tried to nationalize the election, with former 2020 presidential hopefuls, Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobuchar, stumping for Newsom over the weekend, and Vice President Kamala Harris campaigning for him in the Bay Area Wednesday.

'They wouldn't be trying to recall him except that they know he is a national leader,' Vice President Kamala Harris said in San Leandro, California on Wednesday

'They wouldn't be trying to recall him except that they know he is a national leader,' Harris said in San Leandro. 'This is why they are putting so many resources and time into trying to take out Gavin Newsom. It is because of his vision. It is because of the agenda.'

'Let us send the message to the world, that these are the things we stand for, these are the things we fight for and we will not give up,' Harris continued. 'Because we know that so much is at stake.'

Harris pointed to Republican-led efforts to restrict voting in Georgia and Texas and the new, controversial six-week abortion law in Texas.

'They think if they can run in California they can do this anywhere,' Harris said. 'Well, we will show them you're not going to get this done, not here.'

On Saturday, Warren urged voters not to replace Newsom with 'California's own Donald Trump.'

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (right) hugs California Gov. Gavin Newsom (left) at an event in Culver City on Saturday

'It comes down to you, California. Voting yes in this recall election means installing Larry Elder as governor, Warren said, according to the LA Times. 'Voting yes means installing one more Republican governor to undercut women, one more Republican governor to put our children at risk, one more Republican governor to grease the skids for the fossil fuel industry to destroy our planet.'

Klobuchar appeared with Newsom on Sunday.

And pro-Newsom ads have also featured Sen. Bernie Sanders, a favorite among the left flank of the Democratic Party.



Newsom got in trouble politically over the slew of restrictions he enacted to combat the coronavirus. At the same time, the governor got caught attending a birthday party at the tony French Laundry restaurant in the Napa Valley, when he was advising Californians to stay home.

A judge also granted an extension to recall supporters, allowing them more time to gather signatures, which is how Newsom is now on the ballot.

Vote-by-mail ballots started getting sent out on August 16.
The baby at the center of Roe v. Wade - the landmark ruling which established women's right to have an abortion in the US - has revealed her identity for the first time in The Atlantic.

Shelley Lynn Thornton, a 51-year-old mother-of-three, has come forward to reveal she is the youngest daughter of Norma McCorvey - the woman known as Jane Roe - and grew up with adoptive parents who didn't believe in abortion.

Thornton, who never met her birth mother in person before her death in 2017, told journalist Joshua Prager she had decided to speak out after more than half a century because she wanted to free herself from the 'secrets and lies.'

'Secrets and lies are, like, the two worst things in the whole world. I'm keeping a secret, but I hate it,' she said, in an adapted excerpt from Prager's new book 'The Family Roe: An American Story', published in The Atlantic.

'I want everyone to understand that this is something I've chosen to do.'

The Atlantic tweeted the first photo identifying Thornton soon after the story was published and repeatedly through the day.

Thornton said her views on abortion are now complex, saying 'I don't understand why it's a government concern' but revealing that when she fell pregnant at 20 she decided abortion was 'not part of who I was.'

'My association with Roe started and ended because I was conceived,' she told Prager, whose book is published September 14.

Shelley Lynn Thornton (pictured), a 51-year-old mother-of-three, has come forward to reveal she is the baby at the center of Roe v. Wade

Norma McCorvey aka 'Jane Roe' (left) and her attorney Gloria Allred at the Supreme Court in 1989

The Atlantic revealed that Shelley Lynn Thornton, 51, is the youngest daughter of Norma McCorvey in an adapted excerpt from journalist Joshua Prager's new book 'The Family Roe: An American Story' (above), our September 14

McCorvey, then 22 and living in Dallas, Texas, filed a lawsuit in 1970 under the name 'Jane Roe,' asking to be able to have an abortion.

She was unmarried and had previously given birth to two other daughters, who she had given up for adoption.

At the time, abortion was illegal except for where the mother's life was at risk. But McCorvey never got the abortion.

The suit, which came to define reproductive rights across America, rumbled on until 1973.

By this time, McCorvey had given birth to the baby, given her up for adoption and the toddler was two-and-a-half and living with new parents.

The revelation of the identity of the baby at the center of the landmark case comes as Roe v. Wade and the debate around abortion laws have taken center stage in the US once again.

Last week, Texas implemented a new law that effectively undercut the 1973 ruling and saw the introduction of the most extreme abortion law across the country.

The law, dubbed the 'Texas Heartbeat Act', bans abortions from when a fetal heartbeat can be detected, which is typically after six weeks of pregnancy - before many women even know they are pregnant.

The ban does not make exceptions for women who are victims of rape or incest, with the only exception being to save the life of the mother.

Rather than enforcement by state officials, the new law gives private citizens the right to sue women who get abortions or anyone who helps them get abortions for $10,000.

The law took effect last Wednesday when the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of upholding it and denied a request from abortion providers to block it.

Thornton had always known she was adopted and had longed to make contact with her birth mother, she told Prager in the excerpt of 'The Family Roe: An American Story', obtained by The Atlantic.

But she said she has suffered from depression and anxiety for years - something she attributes at least in part to knowing she was 'not wanted' by her birth mom.

'When someone's pregnant with a baby and they don't want that baby, that person develops knowing they're not wanted,' said Thornton, in the book excerpt obtained by The Atlantic.

McCorvey in 1998. Shelley Lynn Thornton, 51, has come forward to reveal that she is the youngest daughter of McCorvey - the woman known as Jane Roe

Thornton was the only child of her adopted parents Ruth Schmidt and Billy Thornton, who - after being unable to conceive their own child - reached out to attorney Henry McCluskey to help them adopt.

The couple took their baby home at three days old in June 1970, with no knowledge that she was at the center of the high-profile lawsuit, revealed Prager in the book excerpt.

Thornton told Prager that neither she nor her adoptive parents learned she was the infant dubbed the 'Roe baby' by the anti-abortion community until almost two decades later, reported The Atlantic.

In 1989, McCorvey publicly spoke out to say she wanted to track down her third child.

The National Enquirer carried out an investigation with the help of a woman named Toby Hanft, who previously gave her own daughter up for adoption and was now working to connect birth mothers with the children they gave up.

Hanft managed to identify and track down Thornton, who was 18 at the time, according to Prager.

When Thornton found out her mom was Jane Roe, she said she knew little about the Supreme Court case other than it 'made it OK for people to go out and be promiscuous', according to the book excerpt published in The Atlantic.

'The only thing I knew about being pro-life or pro-choice or even Roe v. Wade was that this person had made it OK for people to go out and be promiscuous,' she told Prager.

She said she was left 'shaking all over and crying' following the bombshell revelation.

The Enquirer published its article in 1989 revealing the so-called 'Roe baby' had been found but, at her request, did not reveal Thornton's identity and she didn't meet with McCorvey.

Melissa Mills (pictured), the eldest of McCorvey's daughters, has also spoken out to CBS after her half-sister's identity was revealed in The Atlantic

The "Roe Baby" reveals identity as half-sister speaks to @CBSNews about their mother's legacy https://t.co/LvqGaBPoR4  CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) September 9, 2021

Two years after the Enquirer article was published and as an unmarried 20-year-old, Thornton told Prager she discovered she was pregnant.

She was already planning to marry her partner Doug but she was 'not at all' eager to become a mother and Doug suggested they consider an abortion, she said, according to the excerpt in The Atlantic.

Thornton said her ties to the Roe v. Wade case had caused her to rethink her views on abortion.

When the Enquirer had tracked her down, her adoptive mom Ruth told the journalist 'we don't believe in abortion,' she told Prager.

The publication had then described her as pro-life because, The Atlantic reported, she had told the journalist 'she couldn't see herself having an abortion.'

Thornton told Prager she was unhappy with this description because she regarded pro-life as 'a bunch of religious fanatics going around and doing protests.'

However, she also didn't identify as pro-choice because 'Norma was pro-choice, and it seemed to Shelley that to have an abortion would render her no different than Norma,' Prager wrote in the book extract.

Thornton told Prager, in the excerpt obtained by The Atlantic, that she had come to the conclusion that religion and politics should not play a part in abortion law.

'I guess I don't understand why it's a government concern,' she said.

But she realized that abortion was 'not part of who I was' and decided to keep the baby - a son - and ensure he felt wanted.

'I knew what I didn't want to do,' she said in the book excerpt.

Norma McCorvey (left) and her attorney Gloria Allred (right) hold hands as they leave the Supreme Court building in Washington after sitting in while the court listened to arguments in a Missouri abortion case in 1989

'I didn't want to ever make him feel that he was a burden or unloved.'

Thornton and Doug now have two more children - daughters born in 1999 and 2000.

Thornton told Prager she had a difficult relationship with her biological mother and never met her in person before she died.

She recalled a heated conversation in 1994 when McCorvey called her to say she and her long-term partner Connie wanted to visit her, according to The Atlantic.

Thornton recalled that she asked her birth mom to be 'discreet' with her partner in front of her young son.

'How am I going to explain to a three-year-old that not only is this person your grandmother, but she is kissing another woman?' she recalled, per the book.

Thornton said McCorvey shouted at her and told her she should be grateful to her for not aborting her.

'I was like, "What?! I'm supposed to thank you for getting knocked up and then giving me away,"' she told Prager.

'I told her I would never, ever thank her for not aborting me.'

When McCorvey was dying in a Texas hospital in 2017, Thornton said she went 'back and forth' about finally visiting her.

The revelation about the identity of the baby at the center of the landmark case comes as Roe v. Wade and the debate around abortion laws have taken center stage in the US once again. A group of protesters gather in Times Square, NYC, Saturday to rally against the new Texas law

Texas Governor Greg Abbott (pictured) signed a new abortion law in May which took effect Wednesday

But McCorvey died from heart failure aged 69 before they met.

Thornton has reunited with her two half-sisters Jennifer and Melissa, however.

Melissa Mills, the eldest of McCorvey's daughters, has also spoken out to CBS after her half-sister's identity was revealed in The Atlantic.

'My mom never had an abortion. No, she had Shelley before the abortion law passed,' she said in a clip of the interview which will air on CBS Mornings Friday.

Mills said, despite the landmark abortion law being born from her birth mom's lawsuit, McCorvey wasn't told when the law passed.

'Yeah, quite a bit before I think and they didn't even call her. Mom didn't even know that the abortion law had passed,' she said.

'They didn't even include her on any of that so she really wasn't involved - they didn't want her to be.

'They said she really wasn't the type of person that they needed even though they used her case.'

When asked 'what does Norma McCorvey mean to you?', Mills replied: 'That's my mom.'

McCorvey, who revealed her identity as Jane Roe days after the 1973 Supreme Court ruling, became a pro-choice figurehead at abortion rights rallies alongside her attorney Gloria Allred.

Later in life, she became a born-again Christian and she switched to a pro-life stance.

However, in a deathbed confession first released in 2020 documentary 'AKA Jane Roe', McCorvey claimed she faked her conversion in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in payments by an anti-abortion group.

Two religious leaders backed her claims, with one admitting 'the jig is up.'
A schoolgirl who contemplated suicide due to bullying showed up to her prom with an escort of almost 300 bikers to show the bullies they 'can't hurt her anymore'.

Felicity Warburton, 15, who has Asperger's Syndrome, was made to feel 'worthless' by cruel tormentors from the age of seven and had been terrified about her prom.

Felicity, who has contemplated suicide due to bullying, showed up to her prom on Monday night accompanied by an escort of almost 300 burly bikers and proved to the bullies that they 'can't hurt her anymore'.

Felicity's mother, Kathryn Warburton, had put out an appeal on Facebook last month asking for WAC Motorcycle Club to attend the prom at the Worcester Warriors Stadium to support the teen.

But Felicity was stunned when hundreds of bikers showed up to escort her and her friend Emily to her prom, revving their engines to applause from Felicity's classmates and teachers.

Felicity Warburton who has Asperger's Syndrome, showed up to prom with an escort of almost 300 bikers (pictured with her friend Emily) to show the bullies they 'can't hurt her anymore'

Felicity (pictured) who has contemplated suicide due to bullying, showed up to prom on Monday with almost 300 bikers and proved to the bullies that they 'can't hurt her anymore'

Felicity's mother, Kathryn Warburton, had put out an appeal on Facebook asking for WAC Motorcycle Club to attend the prom at the Worcester Warriors Stadium to support the teen

The appeal read: 'Felicity has been looking forward to her prom as she feels that this will be the point where she can show them (the bullies) that they can't hurt her anymore.

'They have bullied her so much she has even contemplated suicide in the past year, so I really want her prom to be everything she wants and needs it to be.'

Almost 300 people from the club, as well as other kind bikers from all around the UK, turned up to give their support to the teenager.

Her father Rich Morris, 45, from Droitwich, Worcs, said they were hoping for around ten bikers to show up, but were left gobsmacked when hundreds showed up in their droves.

He continued: 'They kept coming batch by batch until there were so many bikers you couldn't even see Felicity in the middle of them all.

'They were even given an escort by a group of ex-police officers and prison guards.

But Felicity was left stunned when nearly 300 bikers showed up on Monday night, revving their engines to applause from Felicity's classmates and teachers

Almost 300 people from the club, as well as other kind bikers from all around the UK, turned up to give their support to Felicity (left)

Felicity's father Rich Morris, 45, from Droitwich, Worcs, said they were hoping for around ten bikers to show up, but were left gobsmacked when hundreds showed up in their droves

'We were blown away. Felicity loved every minute and it was just incredible to see the support from all the bikers.'

Felicity, who has dyslexia, suffered from bullying since primary school, when cruel tormentors would verbally abuse her on a daily basis.

Mr Morris, who runs a digital photography business, said bullies at school would think it was 'ok to pick on her'.

He explained: 'She was abused every day and it crushed her but we felt that after Monday night we could see our lovely, bubbly Felicity really enjoying herself.

'Proud of her doesn't even touch it, she's an amazing girl and she hasn't deserved any of this, so to see her light up like a Christmas tree was absolutely fantastic.'

Mr Morris said he finally felt like he had his 'daughter back' when he watched her ride to her prom on a trike, accompanied by hundreds of bikers.

Mr Morris, who runs a digital photography business, said bullies at school would think it was 'ok to pick on her'. Pictured: Bikers who showed up to escort Felicity to her prom

Felicity, who has dyslexia, (pictured right with her friend Emily) suffered from bullying since primary school, when cruel tormentors would verbally abuse her on a daily basis

Mr Morris said he finally felt like he had his 'daughter back' when he watched her ride to her prom on a trike, accompanied by hundreds of bikers (pictured)

He added: 'When you've got someone crunching you down time and time again, you don't see any good in yourself.

'To see that smile break out on her face was very overwhelming.

'The confidence it brought out in Felicity was amazing. Over the last year she's had constant bullying, the school have done what they can but they can't do everything.'

It took Felicity a massive 30 minutes to travel the five miles from her home to the venue due to the sheer number of bikers who turned up to support her.

Dawn Thomas, of the WAC Motorcycle Club, said: 'We were initially contacted by Felicity's mum Kathryn to see if we would provide a few of us on bikes to escort her to her prom.

'There were a few other groups involved and we ended up with over 200 bikes escorting Felicity on the ride of her life.'
A teenage boy was stabbed to death in a late night attack in Leicester.

Police launched a murder investigation after the 18-year-old victim was found on Spinney Hills area of Leicester at 11.45pm on Wednesday.

Officers were called to the area following a report of a serious assault.

A murder investigation has been launched after an 18-year-old man was stabbed to death in the Spinney Hills area of Leicester shortly before midnight

The teenage victim was rushed to hospital where he died a short time later

The teenager suffered multiple stab wounds and was rushed to hospital by East Midlands Ambulance Service.

Leicestershire Police confirmed the teenager died in the early hours of the morning.

Forensics officers spent the day searching the scene for evidence.

Detectives investigating the case have appealed for information from anyone who was in the Melbourne Street area of the city late on Wednesday and early on Thursday morning.

Detective Chief Inspector Joe Banfield, from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, said: 'We have a dedicated team carrying out full enquiries including speaking to witnesses, analysing CCTV and carrying out forensic enquiries. A scene remains in place in the area while these enquiries are ongoing.

'We understand there were a number of people in the area around the time of the incident and are appealing to anyone who was in the area and who has any information to make contact.

'Please think back - were you in the area of Melbourne Street, Maidstone Road, Garendon Street, Maynard Road or Kent Street late yesterday evening (Wednesday) or during the early hours of this morning (Thursday)? Did you see or hear anything which caused you concern? Do you have any CCTV or dashcam footage from the area which could assist our investigation? If you do, please get in touch with us.

'We understand that the incident will have caused concern in the area and our officers do remain in the area speaking to people and offering reassurance.'

Anyone with any information should contact 101 quoting incident 680 of 8 September. You can also report online at www.leics.police.uk.

So far, nobody has been arrested in connection with the investigation.
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki got into a tense exchange with a Fox News reporter on Thursday over a White House statement praising the Taliban as 'flexible' and businesslike' for allowing an evacuation flight from Kabul to Doha with Americans on board.

'You're saying the Taliban is businesslike and professional. Their interior minister has an FBI wanted poster - he's got a $10 million bounty on his head. What's the business?' Fox reporter Peter Doocy asked Psaki at her daily briefing.

He held a copy of the FBI poster, displaying it just feet away from Psaki's podium.

'We are here to celebrate the return of American citizens who wanted to leave Afghanistan, of legal permanent residents, of Afghans who fought by our side, to Qatar successfully on a Qatari Airlines flight,' she replied.

'In order to get those people out, we had to work with some members of the Taliban to press them and to work in a businesslike manner to get them out.'

At the White House briefing on Thursday, Fox reporter Peter Doocy confronted Jen Psaki with the new Afghan interior minister's $10 million FBI wanted poster when asking about the White House's recent statement praising the Taliban for letting an evacuation flight leave

Psaki said it was because the US government pressed the Taliban 'to work in a businesslike manner to get them out'

A US-brokered deal with the Taliban enabled 30 Americans to escape Afghanistan on Thursday aboard an international flight carrying 200 passengers from Kabul Airport to Qatar, the first such large-scale departure since US and foreign forces concluded their frantic withdrawal at the end of August.

A spokesperson for the White House National Security Council praised the militant group for allowing the flight to leave.

'The Taliban have been cooperative in facilitating the departure of American citizens and lawful permanent residents on charter flights,' spokeswoman Emily Horne said. 'They have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort. This is a positive first step.'

At the Thursday briefing Doocy asked what it was a 'first step' toward.

'Towards getting additional people out who want to leave Afghanistan,' Psaki finished before abruptly calling on another reporter.

Afghanistan's new interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani, was announced amid a list of names the Taliban declared would now run the country's government.

A number of people on the list are sanctioned by the United Nations over global terrorist threats, including Haqqani, whose father founded the Haqqani Network terror organization with close ties to the Taliban.

New Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani is wanted for a number of attacks, including a 2008 bombing that killed a US citizen and attacks on US and allied military forces from across the Pakistan-Afghanistan border

Despite his high-profile new role Haqqani is still among the FBI's most wanted men.

His listing on the agency's website says he is wanted in connection to a number of terrorist attacks, including a January 2008 attack on a Kabul hotel that killed an American citizens and attacks on the US military from across the Pakistan border.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken blamed the Taliban for keeping flights in the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif grounded just days earlier, before leaked communications surfaced that show the State Department hindered the takeoff.

The White House's praise for the Taliban's conduct stands in start contrast with reports it's gone back to its brutal ways reminiscent of the last time they led Afghanistan in the late 20th century.

A top female police officer who was a high-ranking official in the ministry Haqqani now runs made a desperate plea for her life and is now on the run over fears of what the Taliban would do to her.

Gulafroz Ebtekar, 32, was deputy head of criminal investigations in Kabul, and a prominent campaigner for women's rights under the overthrown government.

Evacuees from Afghanistan, including US citizens, arrive at Hamad International Airport in Qatar's capital Doha on the first flight carrying foreigners out of the Afghan capital since the conclusion of the US withdrawal last month

The Taliban were pressed to allow the departures by US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, said an official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity on Thursday

The police high-flyer and her family now face a 'death sentence' unless she can escape, says a friend and mentor.

It comes after Taliban militants reportedly shot and killed a pregnant policewoman in front of her husband and children in a door-to-door execution.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujaheed denied the group was involved in her death and dismissed it as being caused by 'personal enmity or something else.'

On Thursday the Taliban had allowed the Qatar Airways flight to depart for Doha amid a bumpy coordination effort between the U.S. and Afghanistan's new rulers, including a days-long standoff over charter planes at another airport that left dozens of passengers stranded.

A senior U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to brief the media, said that two very senior Taliban officials had helped facilitate the departure.

Irfan Popalzai, 12, among those boarding the flight with his mother and five brothers and sisters, said his family lives in Maryland.

'I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited (to leave),' the boy said before departing the country.

About 200 foreigners prepared to leave Kabul as the Taliban allowed international flights out of Afghanistan to resume. There were about 30 Americans at the scene

The foreign citizens would depart from Kabul Airport to Doha, Qatar on Thursday

Passangers were led onto the tarmac to begin boarding the Qatar Airways flight

This was the first large-scale departure flight since the final U.S. troops left on August 31

The Taliban were pressed to allow the departures by US Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, said an official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity on Thursday.

Qatari special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani said the flight marked a historic day as the airport was now operational again under the Taliban's control.

'Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes,' al-Qahtani added, noting that another commercial flight would take off on Friday. 'Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.'

A foreign diplomat, likewise speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to brief the media, said another 200 foreigners, including Americans, would depart in the next couple of days.

A Qatari security personnel stands guard of the Qatar Airways aircraft in Kabul

The Taliban had allowed the flight to take off as it reopened the international airport

The flight took off from Kabul and will be heading towards Qatar's capital, Doha

The passengers will arrive in Qatar before making their respective trips back home

Planes chartered to carry people out of Afghanistan had been stuck at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, casting doubt on the Taliban's assurance that foreigners and Afghans would be allowed to leave the country.

Some organizers of the flights also said the State Department was not doing enough to facilitate their departure.

The criticism came after an email leak suggested that the agency prevented several private flights from leaving Afghanistan with U.S. citizens and Afghan allies on board.

Grounded planes are seen at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, where hundreds of evacuees have been stuck and unable to leave Afghanistan in a standoff between the US and Taliban

Taliban authorities have agreed to let 200 American civilians and third country nationals depart on charter flights from Kabul airport. The Kabul Airport is seen above

Blinken met with refugees at the U.S. Air Base in Ramstein, Germany on Wednesday as the State Department faces criticism after leaked emails show it refused to let privately chartered planes land at the Doha, Qatar U.S. military base, even if they have Americans on board

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Wednesday went on a charm offensive, saying the Taliban was to blame for the standoff and calling on the militants to allow the charter flights to depart from Afghanistan.

Blinken said the United States was doing everything in its power to get the flights off the ground, but the Taliban was not permitting the flights to depart.

'We've made clear to all parties, we've made clear to the Taliban that these charters need to be able to depart,' Blinken said at a press conference in Germany.

The remarks came as Blinken met with Afghan refugees at the Ramstein Air Base in Germany. He also met with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas as the two counterparts discussed cooperation in efforts to process and resettle Afghan refugees.

The two will hold a virtual 20-nation meeting on the crisis from the southwestern German U.S. Air Base.

The administration still insists there are only around 100 Americans left to be evacuated, while volunteer groups leading private evacuation efforts and Republicans claim there are more like 500 U.S. citizens still trying to get out.

Six planes chartered to evacuate Americans and allies from Afghanistan were blocked from leaving by the Taliban, it emerged over the weekend.

Blinken speaks to members of the US embassy and Mission Afghanistan in the Qatari capital Doha on Tuesday. Blinken blamed the Taliban for blocking charter flights

The de-facto ruler of Afghanistan, Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, is seen in a file photo

The State Department also refused to green light privately chartered flights out of Afghanistan that could have evacuated US citizens and Afghan special immigrant visa applicants, leaked emails reportedly show.

The Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the US since August 17 from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation formally known as Operation Allies Welcome.

DHS said in the latest updated released Wednesday that 17 percent of those arrivals are U.S. citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government there fell to the Taliban.

The remaining 83 percent are a mix of people. They include those with Special Immigrant Visas, for people who worked as interpreters or in some other capacity for the U.S. or NATO.

There are also other visa holders as well as applicants for visas who have not yet completed their processing. The remainder are various types of 'vulnerable' Afghans who would be threatened under the Taliban, such as women and human rights advocates.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through 'multi-layered' security vetting but he declined to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.
The Champlain Towers South was doomed from the start: The contractor lost his license amid fraud and negligence claims, the developer was charged with tax evasion, and the architect had previously been suspended after a structure he built collapsed, according to a report on the collapsed Florida condo building.

Contractor Alfred Weisbrod worked on the Champlain Towers in Surfside for three months. The general contractor's 20-year career was riddled with accusations of 'negligence,' 'incompetency or misconduct,' and abandoning projects midway, according to court records and newly released documents from the state licensing agency, the Miami Herald reported.

Weisbrod was fined three times and threatened with suspension for various offenses, which forced him to surrender his license in 1998, Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation records show.

The licensing agency filed three administrative claims accusing Weisbrod of completing specialized work without the proper permits, licenses, and inspections, and of failing to complete the contracted work, mismanagement, incompetence and fraud throughout the 1980s and 90s, according to the Herald.

The contractor, developer, and architect of the Champlain Towers all had careers laced with controversy and legal issues

Contractor Alfred Weisbrod surrendered his license three years after the towers were finished after years of complaints and lawsuits against him

An investigation to determine the cause of the collapse of the residential building is underway

The initial phase of the construction took less than a year and was overseen by three contractors. The first building permit for Champlain Towers South was issued on November 13, 1979 listing Jorge Batievsky as contractor.

But on May 15, 1980, records show that Weisbrod signed on to the project, the day that Batievsky resigned from the project. While there was no explanation given for the change in contractors, records show that a 13th story penthouse, which violated town ordinances, was added to the drawings the day before.

Weisbrod had only been licensed as a Florida general contractor for nine months before signing on to the Champlain Towers project. After three months working on the Champlain Towers, he was replaced by Arnold Neckman on August 18, 1980. All three original contractors have passed away.

Dawn Lehman, professor of structural engineering at the University of Washington told the Herald that it is 'unusual' to for a contractor to quit a job. 'It rarely happens because it means your whole crew is out of work.'

Weisbrod was named in two dozen civil lawsuits between 1981 and 2000 mainly involving small-scale construction work at single-family residences, according to records maintained by the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts.

He was also accused of abandoning projects midway and performed work which he was not licensed for such as repairing roofs. Weisbrod was fined by the licensing agency so often that many of checks, including one or $14, bounced.

Batievsky, the original contractor, and his wife, Susie, a Realtor, later sued various people and entities involved in the project, including developer Nathan Reiber, but the records have been destroyed, according to the Herald. William Friedman, the architect for the Champlain Towers also sued Reiber, but those records have also been destroyed, according to The Real Deal.

The Surfside condominium complex was completed in 1981. The project went through three different contractors which is very uncommon

There is no evidence to suggest that Weisbrod, Reiber, or Friedman's work caused the collapse

Developer Nathan Reiber was charged with tax evasion in Canada and sued by Champlain Towers contractor Jorge Batievsky and architect William Friedman

Reiber was a Canadian attorney who managed real estate on the side. He was arrested in January 1981 for skimming money from coin laundry machines in his apartment buildings and failing to appear in court.

He allegedly evaded taxes and was involved in making fraudulent entries for companies. Reiber did not cooperate with the investigation into three tax charges and was forced to resign from the Canadian bar in 1984, according to an Ontario Law Society document.

But his legal troubles did not end in Canada. In 1975 he was hit with claim of $3,850 for unpaid landscaping work at three residential properties he co-owned in Miami. From 1975 to 2009, three mortgage foreclosure lawsuits and five contract and indebtedness suits were filed against him and his partners in real estate ventures, according to records.

In 2014, Reiber died in Miami at the age of 86.

The Champlain Towers architect, William Friedman, was also a man whose career involved controversy.

More than ten years before the Miami Surfside condominium had been built, Friedman was suspended for six months after a structured that he designed collapsed during a hurricane.

When he was a young architect in his 30s he designed commercial sign pylons that were part of the rooftop of a building in downtown Miami. The pylons toppled following a storm in 1965 as Hurricane Betsy struck south Florida.

One week after Betsy blasted through the area, a sign pylon which had been attached to the building collapsed and fell down the side. Another single story building in a different part of town also had a similar pylon structural failure. The pylons were being used to hold promotional signs perched atop the building's roof.

The collapse was serious enough for at least one prominent Miami architect to alert the Florida State Board of Architecture who then suspended him for 'gross incompetency, in that he negligently, improperly, and carelessly' designed the 20-foot tall pylons.

The pylons were 'insufficient and grossly inadequate' to withstand the wind pressure of the hurricane force winds, and were not in accordance with building code for the location or 'to accepted standards of architectural practice,' the Florida Board of Architecture wrote in its suspension order in 1966.

Friedman was then suspended for six months between June and December, 1967 some 12 years after he received his license in 1955. In 2018, Friedman died in Miami at the age of 88.

William Friedman was suspended following the collapse of sign pylons at two Miami buildings

The pylons designed by Friendman who would go onto design Champlain Towers South came down after Hurricane Betsy stormed through in 1965 (file photo of Hurricane Betsy in 1965)

Windows of the Carillion Hotel on Miami Beach were knocked in by Hurricane Betsy (file photo)

Betsy caused $1.42 billion worth of damage in the Bahamas, Florida, and Louisiana, earning the storm the nickname 'Billion Dollar Betsy' in September 1965

The documents have only recently come to light following a public records request filed by The Real Deal. Fort Lauderdale architect Kaizer Talib said the suspension was serious.

'Most of the time you end up getting a letter of warning from the state department or something,' he told The Real Deal. 'If you had done something small wrong, in the process of permitting, then you might get a warning letter. But a suspension is a bigger thing because it's decided by a committee. It's not decided by an individual.

'Some people know about [the suspension], but the general public doesn't know,' Talib said. An architect 'just keeps quiet and he is not going to tell anyone except his wife.'

There is no evidence to suggest that Weisbrod, Reiber, or Friedman's work had anything to do with its collapse. However, the background information could provide a useful element for investigators still attempting to discover what led to the fall of the tower block that killed 98 people.

So far, that has been one indicator of a 'major error' that was discovered in the original plans for the building which were prepared by Friedman and the project engineer.

A 2018 engineering report on the 12-story condo suggests a concrete slab in one part of the building had not been placed at a slope to allow water to drain.

'The question comes down to: Was it a design error or deferred maintenance that was the approximate cause for the collapse?' said Frank Schnidman, retired urban planning professor at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton.

Despite the six month suspension in the late 60s, his obituary described him as a 'very unique architect'. Friedman went on to design many 'unusual properties' across Miami. Alongside apartment blocks, he also designed a shopping center, a hospital and various townhouses.

When Champlain Towers South was completed in 1981, it was described as being one of the largest condo projects in Surfside's history.

Residents of Champlain Towers East revealed photos of cracks that have appeared in their building after collapse of Towers South.

Construction lights surround the area of land where the partially collapsed Champlain Towers South building stood in Surfside, Florida

Twisted pieces of metal bars protrude from the remains of walls in the area of land block stood

The site of the Champlain Towers is mostly cleared and debris has been relocated to a new site

Shortly after June's disaster, it became clear that warnings about Champlain Towers South, had gone unheeded. A 2018 engineering report detailed cracked and degraded concrete support beams in the underground parking garage and other problems that would cost nearly $10 million to fix.

The repairs did not happen, and the estimate grew to $15 million this year as the owners of the building's 136 units and its governing condo board squabbled over the cost, especially after a Surfside town inspector told them the building was safe.

Investigators have yet to determine what caused about half of the 136-unit highrise to cave in on itself in one of the deadliest building collapses in U.S. history. The portion of the structure that was left standing, but unstable, was deliberately demolished about 10 days later.

A 2018 engineering report found structural deficiencies that are now the focus of several inquiries, including a grand jury investigation.

A complete collapse was all but impossible to imagine. As many officials said in the catastrophe's first days, buildings of that size do not just collapse in the U.S. outside of a terrorist attack. Even tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes rarely bring them down.

The ultimate fate of the property where the building once stood has yet to be determined. A judge presiding over several lawsuits filed in the collapse aftermath wants the property sold at market rates, which would bring in an estimated $100 million or more. Some condo owners want to rebuild, and others say a memorial should be erected to remember the dead.

The site has been mostly swept flat and the rubble moved to a Miami warehouse. Although forensic scientists are still at work, including examining the debris at the warehouse, there are no more bodies to be found where the building once stood.

Except during the early hours after the collapse, survivors never emerged. Search teams spent weeks battling the hazards of the rubble, including an unstable portion of the building that teetered above, a recurring fire and Florida's stifling summer heat and thunderstorms.

They went through more than 14,000 tons of broken concrete and rebar, often working boulder by bounder, rock by rock, before finally declaring the mission complete.

Brad Sohn one of the plaintiffs' court appointed attorneys said in a statement to DailyMail.com: 'Many buildings have shoddy construction but almost none of them collapse. Although our investigation remains ongoing, I am hopeful we will identify what may well prove to be multiple factors that unfortunately led to the Champlain tragedy.'

The next court proceeding will take place on September 10.
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Construction crews searching for an 1887 time capsule in the pedestal of the toppled Robert E. Lee statue in Richmond, Virginia, are struggling to pinpoint where the box is, hours after drilling into it.

The crews pulled apart the base of the 40ft concrete pedestal at 8am in the hopes that the copper box - filled with relics from the Civil War - would be easy to find.

But despite using image testing and stud finders, they still hadn't been able to locate it by nightfall.

The plan was for the box to be replaced with a metal box filled with woke 2021 artifacts including an expired COVID-vaccine, photos from Stop Asian Hate protests, BLM stickers and a 'Virginia is for Lovers' Pride badge.

The new capsule contains 39 items that were proposed by residents of the city and selected by a group that included the state's First Lady Pamela Northam.

Northam, who filled the box up on Tuesday, was there to put it in the place of the old capsule today - a day after the statue of Lee was brought down and sawed in half in front of a cheering crowd of BLM protesters.

The old, copper capsule is from 1887 - three years before the statue went up. It is believed to contain a silver dollar and relics from the Civil War including Confederate buttons.

Crews dismantle the corner of the pedestal of the Robert E. Lee statue as they attempt to locate a time capsule thought to be buried in the base on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. The statue was removed from the pedestal on Sept. 8

Crews attempt to locate a time capsule said to be buried in the base of the statue of on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. The statue was removed from the pedestal on Wednesday

Crews move a section of the base as they attempt to locate a time capsule said to be buried in the base of the statue of on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Va., Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021

Construction crews are drilling to find the old capsule in the base of the concrete pedestal on Thursday morning

Crew worker James (pictured) works to retrieve the capsule at the base of the statue that toward over Richmond

Once the old pedestal is located and removed, they will replace it with the new, silver box, filled with modern artifacts

Devon Henry (top left) looks on as crews continue working to retrieve the 134-year-old time capsule

Meryem Karad, assistant secretary of natural and historic resources (left) looks on along with Councilor Katherine Jordan as

Henry spent the day oversees a crew that spent Thursday trying to locate the hidden time capsule

The 2021 time capsule includes a You Are Not Alone flyer found in the street after a George Floyd protest last year, a COVID mask worn by Virginia's First Lady Pam Northam, photos from a Stop Asian Hate protest, a Virginia is for Lovers sticker, a hand painted gourd rattle that was a gift from the Mattiponi and Pamunkey nations, a hip hop album. These artifacts will replace Confederate buttons and a silver dollar that are in an 1887 capsule in the base of the pedestal now

THE 39 ARTIFACTS INSIDE RICHMOND'S 2021 TIME CAPSULE TO GO IN BASE OF ROBERT E. LEE STATUE 1. 'Ballerina at the Lee Statue' photo taken on June 5th, 2020 2. Expired Vial of COVID-19 Pfizer Vaccine and CDC Vaccination Record Card 3. National Geographic Special Issue '2020 in Pictures' with cover image of Lee Monument in Richmond 4. Black Lives Matter sticker 5. Collection of Michael Paul Williams Pulitzer prize-winning columns on Monument Avenue 6. 'Writing a new history' Kente cloth worn by the Commissioners of the Congressionally chartered 400 Years of African-American History Commission and Ghanian emissaries that participated in the 400th commemoration of 1619 at Point Comfort in Hampton 7. New Virginians" booklet with portraits of 24 immigrants 8. General Assembly Acts of Assembly from the 2020 Special Session 9. 'Virginia is for Lovers' pride pin and stickers 10. The Protagonist poem in uncontracted Unified English Braille 11. Better Together LED Board coded by local schoolgirls 12. VA Ratify ERA sash and ERA 2020 pins 13. YOU ARE NOT ALONE pink heart print found on Richmond street after George Floyd protests in May 2020 14. Election Officer Badge for 2020 General Election 15. Monument Avenue Hip Hop Album by Noah-O and Taylor Whitelow 16. Prayer beads left by a family member who passed away from COVID-19 17. Danville Public Schools First Lady face mask, donated by Pam Northam 18. Photos of the June 4, 2020 press conference announcing the removal of the Lee Statue 19. Steel railroad spike talking piece found near African Ancestral Burial Ground 20. Photos and fliers from Stop Asian Hate protests in May 2021 21. Program and video from the dedication of Arthur Ashe Boulevard featuring a keynote from former Congressman John Lewis 22. Letter describing Virginia University Union's history and commitment to the Richmond community 23. Photo of the Virginia State Police at 14th and F Street NW in Washington helping DC Metro Police Department patrol the city for unrest after the insurrection at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 24. Essays and poems from Arcadia Middle School students reflecting on the experience of being a student during a pandemic 25. Senate Resolution Commending the League of Women's Voters 26. 'Charlottesvilles Robert E. Lee Monument is Coming Down, Thanks to Me and Black Women Like Me' July 10, 2021 Teen Vogue article written and submitted by Zyahna Bryant 27. Hard copy of the Virginia Poet Laureate Luisa Igloria's work Dear America 28. Gifts from the dedication ceremony from the Mattiponi and Pamunkey nations, hand painted gourd rattle and hand crafted earrings with sturgeon scale and beading 29. Booklet which outlines Virginias first One Virginia Plan for Inclusive Excellence 30. Rumors of War Wasn't a Rumor photo lithographic plate with oil-based ink & sealant 31. Copy of the LGBTQ Richmond Walking Tour created by Blake McDonald 32. First Presbyterian Church Session 2020 minutes approving the formation of a Dismantling Racism 33. Video of the One Commonwealth Many Virginians: Uniting in Interfaith Prayer for Healing and Unity event 34. Piece of tarp from the unveiling of Kehinde Wileys Rumors of War Statue and photos from the unveiling event 35. Document describing selected student submissions from the Governor's Inaugural Black History Month Historical Marker Contest 36. Post-Colonial Love Poem by 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry Winner Natalie Diaz 37. New Legacy Postcard 38. List of artifacts in the previous capsule as described in a Richmond Dispatch article 39. Photo collage of individuals who contributed artifacts to the new time capsule and thank you note Advertisement

If they can't get it out without removing too much of the concrete pedestal, they will stop. The new capsule will still be buried.

A newspaper article from 1887 says that it also contains a photograph of 'Lincoln lying in his coffin' that was donated by Miss Pattie Leake, a school principal from a prominent Richmond family.

Historians are dubious about whether it is an actual photograph of Lincoln in his coffin or a sketch or print of him lying in state.

Virginia officials have not yet indicated what they will do with the 1887 capsule or its contents.

In its place will go 39 artifacts that Northam says are more in keeping with the times.

They include a photograph of a black ballerina dancing in front of the vandalized statue, which was covered in graffiti last summer after the killing of George Floyd, a copy of the National Geographic '2020 in Pictures' issue with a photograph of the Lee monument on the cover, and a 'Kente cloth worn by the Commissioners of the Congressionally chartered 400 Years of African-American History Commission'.

Governor Ralph Northam said the new capsule captures 'the resilience and struggle of life, within a pandemic'.

Janice Underwood, Virginia's Chief Diversity officer, said on Tuesday: 'Theres more here in this capsule that brings us together and unites us as we walk toward the future, as opposed to this sort of polarizing conversation of what race is to Virginia.

'This idea of celebrating the Lost Cause? Were beyond that.

'We get to tell a different story'.

The 21ft bronze statute of Lee atop a horse will now be sent to the Goochland Women's Correctional Center in Virginia until officials know what to do with it permanently. It is the latest Confederate statue to have been toppled by the BLM movement amid protest from white residents who thought it should be preserved in history.

Crews began hoisting the 21-foot-tall bronze likeliness of Lee on horseback about 8 a.m. EST and an hour later, it was on the ground, protected by a fence which kept crowds of spectators back.

After being brought to the ground, workers began severing the top of the statue from the bottom using electric saws.

Workers who were removing the statue gave the crowd a three-second countdown before they lifted the statue from its pedestal.

The crowds of spectators cheered, whooped then broke into song, chanting 'Na na na na, na na na na, hey hey, goodbye' as it was lowered to the ground. They also chanted 'Black Lives Matter'.

The 40ft concrete pedestal that it sat atop will remain in place for now, until officials decide what to do with it.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam made the decision to remove the statue last year ten days after George Floyd's killing by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin.

The statue was erected in 1890, 25 years after the end of the Civil War, and 20 years after Lee's death. It was funded by the Lee Monument Commission, founded in 1886, which was led by Lee's nephew, former Virginia Governor Fitzhugh Lee.

In a statement after it was removed, Gov. Ralph Northam said: 'This was a long time coming, part of the healing process so Virginia can move forward and be a welcoming state with inclusiveness and diversity'.

He added that it represented '400 years of history that we should not be proud of'.

The statue had been fenced off and the roads surrounding it were closed at the start of the week in an effort to thwart crowds of protesters on both sides of the debate over removing it.

Pedestrians watched the removal in a designated area on Monument Avenue.

Northam announced plans to remove statue in June 2020, 10 days after George Floyd died under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer, sparking nationwide protests against police brutality and racism.

In anticipation of the statue coming down, the roads around it in Richmond were closed on Wednesday.

The plans were stalled for more than a year by two lawsuits filed by residents opposed to its removal, but rulings last week by the Supreme Court of Virginia cleared the way for the statue to be taken down.

It wasn't immediately clear what would become of the sculpture, though some media reports indicated it would be stored until government officials determined how to dispose of it.

A copper time capsule that was placed at the cornerstone of the pedestal October 27, 1887, will be removed Thursday.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam called the removals a sign of the time but some residents opposed it, claiming it went against 1890 deeds which protected the statue.

'This monument and its time capsule reflected Virginia in 1890and its time to remove both, so that our public spaces better reflect who we are as a people in 2021,' he said in a news release.

'The past 18 months have seen historic change, from the pandemic to protests for racial justice that led to the removal of these monuments to a lost cause. It is fitting that we replace the old time capsule with a new one that tells that story.'

Library records indicated 37 local residents and businesses contributed about 60 objected related to the Confederacy to the historic cache.

On Thursday, an 1890 time capsule from the base of the statue will be removed and replaced instead with one from 2021 that includes 39 artifacts including BLM stickers and Pride badges. The box was filled by Virginia First Lady Pam Northam last week

The time capsule will be placed at the site on Thursday, after crews remove the 1887 capsule that is believed to be a copper box

Governor Ralph Northam today announced the artifacts for the new time capsule, crafted by Richmond sculptor Paul DiPasquale.

'The 1887 capsule we will remove this week offers us an incisive bite of time when the Lee Monument was erected,' DiPasquale said in a press release. 'Now in 2021, this capsule gives future Virginians artifacts of the tectonic transition that has happened to us.

He added: 'The pedestal marks the past and has a new message for the future: we, all of us, are the New Virginia.'

After the statue was removed on Wednesday, Northam said: 'FinallyVirginia and Monument Avenue have moved beyond celebrating the Confederate insurrection. We can all look forward to seeing Virginias history remembered in a way that reflects who we are in the 21st century.'

While many saw the statue as an offensive glorification of the Souths slave-holding past, public officials had long resisted its removal, along with residents of Virginia who argued moving the monument would be akin to erasing history.

After the statue is taken down, crews on Thursday will remove plaques from the base of the monument and will replace a time capsule that is believed to be inside.

After removing the statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee from its pedestal, workers saw off the torso in Richmond, Virginia, USA, 08 September 2021

The huge statue of General Robert E. Lee is removed from the pedestal where it has been for 131 years in a huge BLM victory on Wednesday morning

The horse is removed from Monument Avenue on Wednesday afternoon after the top half was removed

People celebrate as the statue of Robert E. Lee is lowered from its pedestal at Robert E. Lee Memorial during a removal September 8, 2021 in Richmond, Virginia. The Commonwealth of Virginia is removing the largest Confederate statue remaining in the U.S. following authorization by all three branches of state government, including a unanimous decision by the Supreme Court of Virginia

Richmond activist Japhari Jones (right) and another activist who declined to give his name (left) trade accusations about who is more true to the anti-racism movement following removal of the statue of Confederate general from Monument Avenue

Hundreds gathered to watch the statue going up in 1890. The Civil War ended 25 years earlier and Lee died in 1870. It was erected in 1890 at the commission of his nephew, the former Governor of Virginia, Fitzhugh Lee, and was paid for by the Lee Monument Association. There is believed to be a time capsule from 1887 buried in the base of the pedestal that will be removed today

In Richmond, a city that was the capital of the Confederacy for most of the Civil War, the Lee statue became the epicenter of last summers protest movement. The city has removed more than a dozen other pieces of Confederate statuary on city land since Floyds death.

The base of the statue was covered with vandalized after Floyd's death. It was covered with graffiti, art work, and comments calling for racial equity and social justice.

Given that the statue is one of the largest and most recognizable Confederate monuments in the country, its removal is expected to draw a crowd and a heavy law enforcement presence.

The Lee statue was created by the internationally renowned French sculptor Marius-Jean-Antonin Mercie and is considered a masterpiece, according to its nomination to the National Register of Historic Places, where it has been listed since 2007.

When the monument arrived in 1890 from France, an estimated 10,000 Virginians used wagons and rope to haul its pieces more than a mile to where it now stands. The statue was the first of five Confederate monuments to be erected on Richmonds Monument Avenue, at a time when the Civil War and Reconstruction were over, but Jim Crow racial segregation laws were on the rise.

The Northam administration has said it would seek public input on the statues future.

The pedestal will be left behind for now amid efforts to rethink the design of Monument Avenue.

Some racial justice advocates dont want it removed, seeing the graffiti-covered pedestal as a symbol of the protest movement that erupted after Floyds killing.

After Floyds death, the area around the statute became a hub for weeks of protests and occasional clashes between police and demonstrators.

The pedestal has been covered by constantly evolving, colorful graffiti, with many of the hand-painted messages denouncing police and demanding an end to systemic racism and inequality.


Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis filed an emergency appeal to keep his ban on school mask mandates just hours after a judge ruled against his executive order for the second time, as the legal battle between DeSantis and school districts defying his order intensified.

DeSantis filed the motion around 7.30 p.m. Wednesday, on the heels of Leon County Judge John Cooper's second ruling siding with parents who filed a lawsuit against the governor's mask ban on August 26.

It's also DeSantis second instance appealing Cooper's decision amid a back-and-forth war over school mask mandates that seems to be nowhere near its end.

The judge's decision on Wednesday momentarily lifted the ban and revoked DeSantis's order to withhold funding from two school districts that defied the ban and have continued to enforce mask use.

The parents who filed the lawsuit now have until 8 p.m. today to answer to the motion.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis (pictured today) overstepped his authority by banning mask mandates in schools, a judge has ruled

Leon County Circuit Judge John Cooper ruling lifts the ban on school mask mandates

DeSantis's lawyers, along with Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran, the Florida Department of Education and the State Board of Education accused Cooper of overstepping his powers as a judge, citing that the state should be the one in charge of COVID-19 restrictions.

'The adequate level of safety in schools and other public settings is a political question reserved entirely for elected representatives who are publicly accountable,'

'Therefore, in finding irreparable harm, the trial court should not have substituted its own health policy preferences or risk assessments for those of the governor or, more importantly, the state health officer and surgeon general,' the motion read.

Prior to the emergency motion, Judge Cooper had contended that DeSantis violated the law and mask mandates were 'reasonable and consistent with the best scientific and medical opinion in this country.'

Florida is one of several states where Republican governors have sought to prevent local governments and school districts from mandating masks

DeSantis's legal battle with the state's school districts has triggered confrontations between pro-mask school workers and parents as well as students who are opposed to masks.

On July 30, DeSantis issued an executive order forcing the Florida Department of Education and the Florida Department of Health to allow parents to opt out their children from wearing masks at school, even as COVID-19 infections in the state jumped 50% in that week.

Thirteen Florida school districts, representing more than half of the state's 2.8 million public school students, kept their mask mandates.

In retaliation, DeSantis stripped funds equal to monthly school board members' salaries in Alachua and Broward counties.

Three teachers from Broward County School District died from COVID-19, just as Broward County's School Board voted to defy Gov Ron DeSantis' order to drop the mask mandate.

Masked children this month at Baldwin Park Elementary School in Orlando

The Judge said DeSantis didn't have the legal authority to ban mask mandates and his order was unconstitutional and could not be enforced.

'It's undisputed that in Florida we are in the midst of a COVID pandemic.

'Based on the evidence I've heard, there's no harm to the state if the stay is set aside,' Cooper said.

DeSantis said that the state had to protect 'parents freedom to choose.'

The order noted that 'children are at 'low risk of contracting a serious illness due to COVID-19' and said that 'forcing' children to wear masks could 'inhibit breathing, and adversely affect communications in the classroom and student performance,' among other things.

DeSantis has described CDC recommendations to wear face masks as 'the most significant threat to freedom in my lifetime,' and even accused the health agencies of 'medical authoritarianism.'

He argued that all 'all parents have the right to make healthcare decisions for their minor children,' - such as whether to mask them up.

School children wearing face masks arrive on the first day of classes at Baldwin Park Elementary School in Orlando

'I have (three) young kids. My wife and I are not going to do the masks with the kids; we never have,' DeSantis shared. 'I want to see my kids smiling. I want them having fun.'

The governor's executive order also said that 'there is no statistically significant evidence to suggest that counties with mask requirements have feared any better than those without.'

DeSantis was cheered by supporters as he made the pronouncement, and also welcomed parents who are against masks to address the crowd.

'I think that this decision about whether parents want their kids to have to wear masks all day at school, I think that's a decision that falls squarely within the concord of this Parents' Bill of Rights that I signed,' the governor said.

In Sarasota County, another district that refused to follow DeSantis' order, hundreds of parents were seen lining up at a chiropractor to collect medical exemption forms for their children.

'We were in and out, came in, signed a clipboard and handed a sheet,' parent Paulina Testerman told WJBF-TV of the scene at Twin Palms Chiropractic.

'Nobody asked to see our children. The forms were pre-signed, there was a stack behind the counter and they were just passed out.'

Chiropractor Dan Busch spoke with the ABC affiliate outside his attorney's office, saying that he had only provided exemptions to students and parents he met with personally.

'This is not a political thing. I am not an anti-mask person or an anti-vax person, but I am a pro-freedom, pro-choice person,' said Busch.

Busch said that any 'licensed health care physician' is qualified to provide medical exemptions, including chiropractors.

'Your dentist could do this, your psychiatrist could do this, your psychologist can do this,' he said. 'You were looking at things like respiratory distress, hypoxia, asthma, anxiety, depression  there are a lot of qualifying conditions.'

A protester holds a placard outside an emergency mask mandate meeting of the Brevard County, Florida School Board in Viera on Monday

A masked student raises his hand in class at iPrep Academy on the first day of school in Miami last week. A judge has ruled that Florida school districts may impose mask mandates

Meanwhile, in Sarasota County, where another school mask mandate went into effect on Monday, hundreds of parents were seen lining up at a chiropractor to collect medical exemption forms for their children.

'We were in and out, came in

Cooper said that while the governor and others have argued that a new Florida law gives parents the ultimate authority to oversee health issues for their children, it also exempts government actions that are needed to protect public health and are reasonable and limited in scope.

He said a school district's decision to require student masking to prevent the spread of the virus falls within that exemption.

DeSantis' order sparked heated debate and a rebellion from some school districts that argued the rules are necessary to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic

The US has reported more than 650,000 deaths since the pandemic started

In the country, 54 percent of the population has been fully vaccinated, while 62.7 percent have been given at least one dose

The judge also noted that two Florida Supreme Court decisions from 1914 and 1939 found that individual rights are limited by their impact on the rights of others.

For example, he said, adults have the right to drink alcohol but not to drive drunk. There is a right to free speech, but not to harass or threaten others or yell 'fire' in a crowded theater, he said.

'We don't have that right because exercising the right in that way is harmful or potentially harmful to other people,' Cooper said. He added that the law 'is full of examples of rights that are limited (when) the good of others ... would be adversely affected by those rights.'

Dr Rosalind Osgood, who heads the Broward County School Board, said she supported Cooper's first ruling as the area was 'living out the nightmare of the COVID pandemic, where so many people in our county, including members of our staff and others, are being impacted.'

The three teachers who died in Broward County were identified as Pinewood Elementary teacher and union steward Janice Wright, 48, Dillard Elementary teacher Katina Jones and teaching assistant Yolonda Hudson-Williams, both 49 also of Dillard Elementary.

As Florida's cases continue to soar, the state reported a seven-day rolling average of 10,162 new cases daily on Tuesday.

This brings the statewide total to 3.36 million cases and 46,973 deaths.

Florida has had a total to 3.36 million cases COVID-19 and 46,977 deaths since the pandemic started
Deputies responding to Alex Murdaugh's self-reported shooting treated the incident as attempted murder, according to an incident report obtained by DailyMail.com.

The brief narrative provides the first glimpse into the bizarre incident that took place Saturday afternoon.

According to the Hampton County Sheriff's department report, deputies responding to the scene learned that Murdaugh had already been transported to the hospital while they were on their way to the stretch of Old Salkehatchie Road where the incident occurred.

Hampton County Sheriff's officer Sergeant S. White who penned the report noted, 'While enroute Deputies learned the victim, later identified as Alex Murdaugh, had been shot in the head, and was being flown out from a landing zone on Charleston Highway (Varnville) to the hospital.'

White notes that another officer met with Murdaugh before he was flown out but gives no details of that interaction.

Alex Murdaugh, 53, (pictured with his deceased wife and son) was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound on a rural road in Hampton County, South Carolina, Saturday. DailyMail.com can reveal that the deputies responding to the scene treated it as attempted murder, according to an incident report

Murdaugh was changing the tire on his car on this rural road in Hampton County when someone shot him from a passing car, according to his attorney

Meanwhile Sergeant White secured the scene of the crime until Hampton County Sheriff Office and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) investigators arrived.

This may account for the curious fact that White crossed the box reading, 'No' next to 'Victim Visible Injury' though he left the space for, 'further explanation' blank.

Murdaugh was released from hospital the following afternoon having suffered only a 'superficial' gunshot wound.

The report also notes that Murdaugh was not drinking or using drugs.

It describes the suspect as, 'Person, Unknown Untracked' with neither race, sex, age nor ethnicity known.

SLED investigators have yet to release any details of the truck that Murdaugh claimed drove by him as he attempted to fix a flat tire by the side of the road.

According to Murdaugh's attorney Jim Griffin he claimed that the truck circled back and opened fire.

Hampton County Sheriff's officer Sergeant S. White noted in the incident report, 'While enroute Deputies learned the victim had been shot in the head and was being flown out'. The report also notes that Murdaugh was not drinking nor using drugs

It is alleged that the gunman shot him after the truck initially drove past Murdaugh without incident and then made a U-turn

Sergeant White secured the scene of the crime until Hampton County Sheriff Office and South Carolina Law Enforcement Division investigators arrived

It was Murdaugh who found the bodies of his wife and younger son by the dog kennels on his property and placed a call to 911 at 10.07pm on June 7.

Maggie and Paul are believed to have been killed between 9pm and 9.30pm.

With no suspects named, nor leads divulged by South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) the case had fallen from public attention.

But it was propelled back into national headlines after Saturday's bizarre shooting.

He was barely seven miles from home and told officers he was driving to Charleston.

Word of Murdaugh's alleged embezzlement tumbled out soon after, as it was revealed that he had been forced to resign the day before the roadside incident.

Murdaugh found the bodies of his wife and younger son (pictured) by the dog kennels on his property and placed a call to 911 at 10.07pm on June 7. Maggie and Paul are believed to have been killed between 9pm and 9.30pm

Murdaugh stepped down from PMPED in Hampton, South Carolina, on Friday after being urged to do so by the firm's bosses. The firm's website now includes a messaging noting that it 'is temporarily unavailable.'

Details of the alleged fraud have not yet been made public, but the findings of a forensic accounting team hired by the law firm reportedly discovered the misuse of funds amounts to millions of dollars being squandered.

The findings led the law firm, which was founded by the Murdaugh brothers' great-grandfather more than 100 years ago, to file an official police report.

'It is a ton of money. It is over $1 million,' a legal source told The Raleigh Observer.

Meanwhile, Murdaugh's attorney Jim Griffin confirmed Monday his client was seeking treatment for substance abuse, while law enforcement sources claimed that the disgraced legal heir is addicted to oxycodone.
Bree Kuhn, 34, of Gulf Breeze, Florida, was arrested Wednesday night after she allegedly shot and killed her husband as they argued about their three children

A 34-year-old chief petty officer at Naval Air Station Pensacola is accused of locking her husband in their garage and fatally shooting him as he spoke to a 911 dispatcher, officials said.

Bree Kuhn, of Gulf Breeze, Florida, a suburb of Pensacola, was arrested Wednesday night and charged with first-degree premeditated murder in the death of Collin James Turner, 34.

Police say the couple's three children were inside the house during the shooting, but authorities say they do not believe the children witnessed the fatal act.

'Its just a sad case - a very sad case - of people arguing, and then, it gets to this point,' Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson said during a news conference Thursday.

Johnson said the couple had argued about their children.

'He wanted to take the kids out of state, and she didnt want to go,' Johnson said.

The dispute eventually became heated, he said, and officers were sent to the scene twice before the fatal shooting.

Her husband, Collin James Turner had called authorities at around 6:30pm and told dispatchers he was locked in the garage of his Gulf Breeze home when dispatchers heard gunshots and responded to the scene

Deputies first went to the home about 12:53pm Wednesday, when Kuhn called 911. They found no evidence of a physical altercation and left.

A second call came in about 5pm, this time from Turner, but officers again found nothing alarming and once again left.

'We follow the rule of law,' Johnson said. 'They were arguing over kids, so there was no reason to take them into custody.'

But just about an hour and a half later, at 6:22pm, Turner called 911 again.

'While on the phone, he says that hes locked in the garage,' Johnson said at the news conference.

'During the phone call with dispatch, you hear gunshots. He states, basically, "She just shot me." Then, you hear three more.'

Johnson said a total of four shots had been fired with a personal handgun.

'It occurred pretty much on the phone, and our dispatcher heard the whole thing,' he said.

When deputies arrived at the home four minutes later, they found Turner dead and Kuhn in a state of shock, the sheriff said.

'I cant go into what she said or anything like that,' Johnson said. 'But to put it the best way, Id say [she was in] shock, probably.

'Youre a Navy chief one day, and the next day, youre in jail.'

Santa Rosa County Sheriff Bob Johnson said officers were called to the scene twice before the fatal shooting, but did not find any evidence of a physical altercation and left

Turner was also in the military, according to Facebook posts, with Gregor Hillmantech writing: 'My heart is broken, Collin Turner you were one of the best people I know. I wish I could have talked to you. Wish I could have been there.'

Turner had reportedly tagged her in a Facebook meme saying, 'FUN FACT: A majority of archeologists are women due to their natural ability to dig up the past,' and she had reportedly solicited advice for divorce attorneys on Facebook, writing: 'It will likely be an ugly contested one that involves children and property.'

Johnson said two of their children were placed in the custody of the Florida Department of Children and Families, while a third child was turned over to their biological father.

Kuhn was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail and is being held without bond.

There is a military hold on her arrest, the South Santa Rosa News reports.

If she is found guilty of first-degree premeditated murder, Kuhn could face a mandatory life in prison sentence or even the death penalty.

The State Attorney's Office has yet to announce whether prosecutors plan to pursue the death penalty.

Jail records didn't list a lawyer who could speak on her behalf.
Gabriel Garcia, 40, a member of the Proud Boys extremists group

A member of the Proud Boys extremists group who took part in the January 6 Capitol Hill riot asked a federal court to remove his GPS ankle monitor, claiming it is 'unsafe' and 'beeping loudly around his potential clients.'

Gabriel Garcia, 40, a former U.S. Army captain, filed a motion arguing that the monitor is interfering with his roofing business, Supreme Aluminum Florida, in Miami.

'The monitor has randomly started beeping loudly around potential clients, immediately followed by an embarrassing phone call from pretrial services asking for his exact location,' the motion states, adding that Garcia 'almost fell off a ladder' after the device hit a step.

Garcia was ordered to wear the monitor as he faces felony charges for his involvement in the Capitol riots, where he gained notoriety for being the man who yelled, 'Nancy come out and play,' allegedly referring to Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.

Federal prosecutors plan to oppose Garcia's motion, according to court records.

Gabriel Garcia, circled, was spotted entering the Capitol building along with the other riots

Garcia stormed the Capitol along with rioters who wanted to stop Congress from validating Joe Biden's victory against Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential election

Garcia's pleas met with several unsympathetic replies on Twitter.

One Twitter user, Denise Shearin wrote, 'Gabriel Garcia wasn't embarrassed about attacking the Capitol but is very embarrassed about the aftermath of his choice. Good, as an adult he's learning about consequences.

Another person with the username D Villella tweeted, 'Poor guy, if the ankle monitor is such a hardship, send him to jail.'

The Twitter user basemetal echoed the sentiments, tweeting, 'Nah...he needs to explain that beeping sound every time it goes off.'

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Twitter users remained unsympathetic to Gabriel Garcia's plea to remove his ankle monitor

Garcia has pleaded not guilty to all charges, saying he couldn't have been trespassing because no one tried to stop him from entering the building, and he didn't wander outside of the 'red velvet lines'.

In a series of Facebook videos from January 6, streamed live online, Garcia shows himself entering the the Capitol along with others in the mob.

'We just went ahead and stormed the Capitol. It's about to get ugly,' he says in one of the videos.

The livestream captured Garcia roaming the Capitol building, yelling 'f***ing traitors' and 'USA, storm this s***'.

During the assault on the capitol, rioters went door-to-door looking for members of Congress they felt had betrayed Donald Trump by refusing to overturn the 2020 presidential election results.

The crowd had earlier chanted 'Hang Mike Pence' and erected a gallows outside the capitol building, and targeted prominent Democrats including the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi.

Garcia insisted that when he yelled for Nancy to 'come out and play', he hadn't intended to hurt Pelosi, and has not been charged in connection to the comments, according to the Miami Herald.

He suggested he may not have been referring to Pelosi.

'Here's the thing. Which Nancy am I talking about?' he told the Herald.

'I never said speaker of the house. Nancy Lopez? Maybe Nancy Reagan?'

Trump supporters storm the Capitol Building following the 'Stop The Steal' rally where they assembled to protest the 2020 election results on January 6, 2021 in Washington DC

Five people died after supporters of former President Donald Trump stormed the US Capitol building, breaking in while Congress was certifying the 2020 election for Joe Biden

During the Jan. 6 riot at the US Capitol, participants clashed with police

Garcia was also captured yelling 'Free Enrique,' a reference to the Miami leader of the Proud Boys Enrique Tarrio, who was arrested a few days before the insurrection in Washington, DC, according to a complaint filed in January.

At least 19 members of the Proud Boys have been charged in federal court with offenses related to the January 6 riot. More than 638 people have been charged in total.

The Proud Boys were formed by Gavin McInnes in 2016, and quickly gained a reputation for violence.

Members are reportedly sworn in by chanting: 'I am a Proud Boy. I am a western chauvinist. And I refuse to apologize for creating a modern world.'

In 2018, the FBI designated the Proud Boys an extremist group.
Florida police say they have seized enough fentanyl to kill nearly half a million people in a drug bust in Palm Coast.

Brian Pirraglia, 39, and Michael Connelly, 40, were both taken into custody on Monday by Flagler County Sheriff's deputies after they executed a search warrant at Pirraglia's home.

Officers uncovered 916 grams of fentanyl in total, which would be enough to kill 481,000 people. A dose of around two milligrams can be fatal, and there are 1,000 milligrams in a gram.

Around 510 grams of fentanyl were found bagged in Pirraglia's kitchen, and a plastic jar labeled 'protein' contained another 406 grams of the deadly drug, Click Orlando reported.



It comes amid a nationwide crisis over fentanyl - a synthetic opioid similar to morphine which is 50 times more potent than heroin.

Officers uncovered 510 grams of a substance that tested positive for fentanyl bagged in Pirraglia's kitchen, as well as a plastic jar labeled 'protein' containing another 406 grams of the deadly drug

Michael Connelly, 40, and Brian Pirraglia, 39, were taken into police custody on September 7, and held on $3,000 and $500 bonds, respectively

Police said they also seized several hypodermic syringes; multiple spoons caked a white, powdery residue; a glass vial; a silicone smoking pipe with burnt cannabis residue; and a metal grinder in the master bedroom of the home.

More than 41 grams of Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim, a prescription-only narcotic, were also recovered in a bedroom, according to deputies.

The sheriff's office said both men have a long criminal history.

Connelly has been hit with charges of fraud, grand theft auto, cocaine and hydromorphone possession, and probation violation since 2007.

Pirraglia's rap sheet began in 2014, and includes shoplifting, fentanyl possession and resisting an officer without violence.

'These two are frequent guests at the Green Roof Inn (jail) and have yet to learn their lesson,' Sheriff Rick Staly said.

Connelly has been charged with possession of drug paraphernalia/equipment and a legend drug without a prescription while Pirraglia was held solely on the possession of paraphernalia/equipment charge.

Connelly has been held on $3,000 bond, and Pirraglia is held on a $500 bond, officials said.

Police also seized several hypodermic syringes; multiple spoons caked a white, powdery residue; a glass vial; a silicone smoking pipe with burnt cannabis residue; and a metal grinder in the master bedroom of the home, according to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office

The bust comes amid an unprecedented uptick in cocaine overdoses across the country - with officials blaming drugs that have been cut with fentanyl by dealers.

Widespread seizures of contaminated cocaine over the past years indicate drug dealers are mixing fentanyl into the drug, to either make it more potent or profitable to sell.

It can also be inadvertently mixed into cocaine by drug dealers who use the same blending equipment to cut other drugs - like heroin.

Over the past four years, cocaine-related fatalities have more than doubled.

The rising death toll reflects the increasingly common - and deadly - cocktail of cocaine and fentanyl.

According to Floridas Medical Examiners Commission, 2,499 of the 2,882 statewide cocaine deaths involved cocaine in combination with other drugs.

According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 83,000 people lost their lives to drug-related overdoses in the 12-month period ending in July 2020 - a significant increase from 2019, when more than 70,000 people died of overdoses.

The rate of overdoses remained stable from 2009 through 2013, but then shot upward about 27 percent each year from 2013 through 2018 - and the rate of increase has only increased since then

Data from the CDC indicates there was a 26 percent increase in the number of cocaine-related overdose deaths, with fentanyl being the most likely driver of these fatalities

What's more, the preliminary data also indicated there was a 26 percent increase in the number of cocaine-related overdose deaths, with fentanyl being the most likely driver of these fatalities.

U.S. deaths from cocaine overdoses totaled 14,666 in 2018, according to a report from the CDC.

What's more, the rate of overdoses remained stable from 2009 through 2013, but then shot upward about 27 percent each year from 2013 through 2018 - and the rate of increase has only increased since then.

According to Floridas Medical Examiners Commission, 2,499 of the 2,882 statewide cocaine deaths involved cocaine in combination with other drugs - such as fentanyl

Death counts through May 2020 also suggest an acceleration of overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic

Death counts through May 2020 also suggest an acceleration of overdose deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last August, six New York residents on Long Island died from overdoses of cocaine that had been laced with fentanyl.

The victims, who ranged in age from 25 to 40, died between August 11 and August 13 and were from towns on the North Fork.

More recently comedians Fuquan Johnson and Enrico Colangeli, 48, and their friend Natalie Williamson, 33, overdosed and died after allegedly ingested fentanyl-laced cocaine at a house party in Venice Beach. Los Angeles model and comedian Kate Quigley, 39, also overdosed, and was left in serious condition but managed to survive.

Enrico Colangeli (left) was found dead along with Fuquan Johnson (right) and Natalie Williamson (not pictured). Colangeli and Johnson performed at the HaHa Comedy Club in North Hollywood

39-year-old Los Angeles model and comedian Kate Quigley allegedly ingested fentanyl-laced cocaine at a house party in Venice Beach on Saturday, overdosed, and was left in serious condition - but managed to survive

A Canadian coroners office revealed this month that child star Logan Williams died from an accidental fentanyl overdose in April last year.

Logan, who shot to fame playing a young Barry Allen on CW's The Flash, was found dead at a care home in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia on April 2 of last year. He was just 16 years old.

A report written by the BC Coroners Service, obtained by The New York Post on Wednesday, confirms Logan succumbed to 'unintentional illicit drug toxicity (fentanyl)' . The death has been classified as as 'accidental.'

It follows a preliminary toxicology report which was released in May 2020, which determined Logan was killed by a drug overdose.
President Joe Biden on Thursday announced an aggressive new plan to get 100 million employees across the federal government and private sector vaccinated against COVID as the case rate continues to rise due to the Delta variant.

To reach his goal, Biden will use the sweeping power of the federal government, ordering companies to vaccinate workers or face fines of up to thousands of dollars. If the administration hits its 100 million mark that means two-thirds of the country's workforce would be vaccinated.

The Labor Department issued an emergency, temporary order to require all businesses with 100 or more employees to ensure every worker is either fully vaccinated or gets tested at least once a week.

The order covers over 80 million employees and it will require employers with 100 or more employees to give employees paid time off to get vaccinated.

Any business that violates the new rule will face substantial fines, up to $14,000.

He also required all workers in healthcare settings that receive Medicaid or Medicare reimbursement to get vaccinated, which will apply to 17 million healthcare workers.

That is in addition to his executive order requiring all federal workers and contractors to get vaccinated.

A senior administration official described it as an aggressive, comprehensive plan to fight COVID as part of their mission to vaccinate the unvaccinated. The official estimated nearly 80 million Americans are eligible to receive a shot but have not.

Additionally, the roughly 300,000 educators in headstart programs will be required to be vaccinated.

It's simple - if you want to work for the federal government, you must be vaccinated. If you want to do business with the government, you must vaccinate your workforce, the senior administration official said on a briefing call with reporters previewing the presidents remarks.

Additionally the TSA is doubling fines for people who refuse to mask on planes. The new range of penalties, which take effect Friday, September 10, 2021, will be $500-$1000 for first offenders and $1000-$3000 for second offenders, the Department of Homeland Security announced.

President Joe Biden will announce an aggressive new plan to get 100 million employees across the federal government and private sector vaccinated

Biden also called on governors to require vaccinations for all school teachers and staff.

In Florida, Republican Gov. Rick DeSantis has threatened to with hold funding from school districts that require face masks.

To counter moves like that, the Department of Education will make additional funding available to help local school districts backfill salaries and other areas where it has been with held.

Biden also addressed booster shots in his remarks, leaving the details of timing to the FDA and CDC but noting preparations are underway to get another round of shots in arms.

He also ramped up testing by using the Defense Production Act to accelerate the production of rapid tests, including at home test, and purchase $2 billion worth of rapid tests e and over the counter at home COVID tests for a total of 280 million tests.

The president's plan, as you can see, it's comprehensive, it's aggressive, and will ensure that we make more progress in our fight against the virus to save even more lives in the months ahead, while also keeping schools open and protecting our economy from lockdowns, the official said.

As part of the sweeping mandates, Biden will require all of the roughly 2.1 million federal workers to be vaccinated as part of a series of new mandates.

There will be limited exceptions but any federal employee who refuses the shot can be fired, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday.

Federal employees and contractors will have 75 days to get vaccinated.

The executive order will not include an option of being regularly tested to opt out of the vaccine requirement. The orders will apply to workers in the executive branch but not the congressional or judicial.

'There will be limited exceptions for legally recognized reasons disability or religious objections,' Psaki said. Anyone who 'fails to comply, they will go through the standard HR process, which includes counseling and face disciplinary action,' she added.

She confirmed that action could include termination of employment.

'Hopefully it won't come to that,' she said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said any federal employee who doesn't get vaccinated can be fired

She said the administration wanted the federal government to serve as an example for other businesses and organizations when it comes to vaccines.

'Obviously the federal workforce is one of the largest in the country and we would like to be a model to what we think other businesses, organizations should do,' she noted. 'The expectation is that if you want to work with federal government or be a contractor, you need to be vaccinated unless you are eligible for one of the exemptions.'

Republican Congressman Rob Wittman of Virginia, who has federal workers in his district, said he objected to the forced vaccines.

'Although I have personally been vaccinated and regularly encourage those I represent to get vaccinated as well, I fundamentally disagree with forcibly injecting America's public servants,' he told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'Our government was founded to secure the individual liberties of all. We should instead continue educating the public that the COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective. Resorting to forced vaccinations, and returning to unnecessary restrictions, only serves to eliminate critically important vaccination incentives and undermine public confidence in the vaccines' efficacy,' he added.

The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest union of federal workers, said they would bargain over the order.

'Workers deserve a voice in their working conditions,' the group said in a statement. 'Neither of these positions has changed. We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so.'

And the National Federation of Federal Employees, another government workers union, said they didnt receive advance notice of the executive order.

Psaki dismissed questions about the unions not being consulted. The Biden White House has bragged about its pro-union stance. At a Labor Day event on Wednesday, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said President Biden told him: 'This is labor's house.'

'We have a range of consultation with labor unions, and that has been the case for several weeks and months as we have worked to implement additional steps,' Psaki said.

'But our objective here is to continue to save lives.'

The president is putting more pressure on states, businesses and schools to get people vaccinated as the Delta variant causes the case rate to continue to rise in the United States.

But Republican-led states including Texas and Florida have pushed back and are in the process of trying to ban the orders being imposed.

Psaki indicated in interviews on Thursday morning that more mandates were coming.

'What we've seen work over the past couple months are mandates, requirements, making it so workers in the federal government or others have to get vaccinated. We've seen it work and we've seen it become more popular,' Psaki said on MSNBC's Morning Joe.

'He's going to speak directly to vaccinated people and their frustrations and he wants them to hear how we're going to build on what we've done to date to get the virus under control,' she said.

The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs already mandate vaccines for their employees. The military also has issued a vaccine mandate.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki indicated in interviews on Thursday morning that more mandates were coming

There have now been more than 40 million cases of COVID recorded among Americans, which is nearly one-fifth of the global total of cases.

President Biden and administration officials have repeatedly emphasized the best way for life to return to normal is for people to get vaccinated.

Biden also plans to call for a global summit, to be held during the U.N. General Assembly later this month, to respond to the pandemic and talk about how to get more vaccine supply to the developing world.

About 27 per cent of the eligible U.S. population age 12 and older have not received any COVID vaccine, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meanwhile about 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated.

In December 2020, after he was elected but before he took office, Biden said he didn't think COVID vaccines were necessary.

'I will do everything in my power as president to encourage people to do the right thing and when they do it, demonstrate that it matters,' he said at the time.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Fauci said this week Americans are getting infected with COVID at 10 times the rate needed to end the pandemic.

'We're still in pandemic mode, because we have 160,000 new infections a day,' Fauci told Axios. 'That's not even modestly good control.'

'In a country of our size, you can't be hanging around and having 100,000 infections a day,' he continued. 'You've got to get well below 10,000 before you start feeling comfortable.'

About 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated

The vaccination rate among Americans has increased since July, which is when the Delta variant caused case rates to spike, but it remains low in Southern states like Florida and Texas.

Biden will also address the divide between the vaccinated and unvaccinated.

'He also will acknowledge the fact that the 175 million people who are vaccinated out there, many of them are frustrated. They want to go back to normal. Of course they do. That's going to require moving more unvaccinated people to a vaccinated status. That's what he'll talk about,' Psaki told CNN on Thursday morning.

In his remarks, Biden also will seek to return his focus to the COVID pandemic, resetting the narrative after the difficult evacuation of Americans from Afghanistan and from Democratic in-fighting on Capitol Hill over his $3.5 trillion budget filled with social programs.

The Biden administration has already taken steps to try and stop Republican-led states from rolling back COVID mandates.

Last month, the Education Department announced a civil rights investigations into five states that banned schools from imposing mask mandates, claiming their stance could discriminate against students with disabilities or health problems.

Education chiefs in Iowa, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah have been told they are under investigation.

'It's simply unacceptable that state leaders are putting politics over the health and education of the students they took an oath to serve,' said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.

'The department will fight to protect every student's right to access in-person learning safely.'
Florida's new 'anti-riot' law championed by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis as a way to quell violent protests and written after 2020's Black Lives Matter movement is unconstitutional and cannot be enforced, a federal judge ruled Thursday.

DeSantis' office told DailyMail.com that they intend to appeal the ruling as soon as possible.

The 90-page decision by US District Judge Mark Walker in Tallahassee found the recently-enacted law 'vague and overbroad' and amounted to an assault on First Amendment rights of free speech and assembly as well as the Constitution's due process protections.

People engaged in peaceful protest or innocently in the same area when a demonstration turned violent could face criminal charges and stiff penalties under the law, the judge said.

The law, known as HB1, raises penalties for crimes committed during a riot or violent protest.

It allows authorities to detain arrested protesters until a first court appearance and establishes new felonies for organizing or participating in a violent demonstration.

Governor Ron DeSantis's office told DailyMail.com it intends to appeal the ruling 'immediately'

Walker warned that 'the lawless actions of a few rogue individuals could effectively criminalize the protected speech of hundreds, if not thousands, of law-abiding Floridians' if he didn't stop the measure.

'It unfortunately takes only a handful of bad actors to transform a peaceful protest into a violent public disturbance,' the judge added.

DeSantis Press Secretary Christina Pushaw said the governor's office 'vehemently disagree[s] with today's decision.'

Judge Mark Walker wrote an impassioned court opinion in which he said the Florida law violates residents' First Amendment rights

'There is a difference between a peaceful protest and a riot, and Floridians do not want to see the mayhem and violence associated with riots in their communities,' she told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'We will immediately file an appeal, where we are confident that the 11th Circuit will correctly apply the law and uphold HB 1 to ensure Floridas law enforcement agencies have the tools necessary to combat riots and keep Floridians safe.'

'Bottom line: Governor DeSantis is confident in winning on appeal,' she added.

The lawsuit was filed against DeSantis and other state officials by the NAACP Florida conference, Dream Defenders, Black Lives Matter Alliance Broward and other groups who argue the law appears specifically aimed to halt protests by black people and other minorities.

The plaintiffs said the district court's decision will 'greatly contribute to the safety of Black organizers' in a joint statement sent to DailyMail.com.

'HB1 effectively criminalizes our constitutional right to peacefully protest and puts anyone - particularly Black people demonstrating against police violence - at risk of unlawful arrest, injury, and even death,' they said. 'This targeting of protesters is shameful and directly contradicts our Constitution.'

They allege the measure is a 'direct response' to the Black Lives Matter and racial justice protests that occurred in the summer of 2020 and targeted people protesting police violence.

'As states around the country threaten to pass similar legislation, todays decision serves as a powerful reminder that such unjust and unconstitutional efforts cannot stand,' the statement to DailyMail.com reads.

The measure was passed earlier this year by the GOP-led Legislature and signed into law in April by the governor.

The law, passed in April, was a reaction to demonstrations around the country following last years killing by Minneapolis police of George Floyd

It was a reaction to demonstrations around the country following last years killing by Minneapolis police of George Floyd, a black man, that stirred passions nationwide under the banner of the Black Lives Matter movement.

The governors lawyers have argued that the law continues to allow peaceful protest but is an effort to draw a sharp distinction between that and a violent riot.

Walker found that argument unpersuasive.

He said the law fails to clarify what 'participation' in a violent protest entails and whether it requires a person to vocalize intent to commit violence.

'The statute can plausibly be read to criminalize continuing to protest after violence occurs, even if the protestors are not involved in, and do not support, the violence,' Walker wrote.

'The statute can also be read to criminalize other expressive activity, like remaining at the scene of a protest turned violent to film the police reaction.'

The law also makes it a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, to destroy or demolish a memorial, plaque, flag, painting, structure or other object that commemorates historical people or events.

In addition, the measure requires that local governments justify any reductions in law enforcement budgets.
Starting Monday inspectors in New York will be hitting the streets to enforce the city's indoor vaccine mandate for bars, restaurants and other businesses, but Mayor Bill de Blasio says the priority wont be slapping businesses with fines.

At least not at first.

'No one is starting this out with the intention of fining, we don't want to fine, we just want people to be safe,' he said at City Hall on Thursday.

Instead, he claimed the focus will be on ensuring businesses are following vaccine check protocols, which he said he was confident many will do.

As enforcement of New York City's vaccine mandate loomed Thursday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was reluctant to fine businesses that do not follow vaccine checks for patrons

'I think the vast, vast majority of businesses are committed to doing it the right way,' he said.

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Enforcement will involve civilian inspectors from 13 city agencies, including the FNDY, DOT and Parks as well as other, perhaps more unusual choices, such as the Taxi & Limousine Commission.

The NYPD will not be involved in the enforcement of the mayor's so-called 'Key to NYC' program.

Other requirements in the mandate include the display of certain literature, which de Blasio said would be provided to businesses.

Venues have been implementing vaccine checks on a voluntary basis since August 16.

Despite de Blasio's expressed reluctance, spokesman Bill Neidhardt said the city was fully prepared to issue fines to violators.

After an initial warning, he said, a business could be hit with a $1,000 fine, a third violation could net the establishment a $2,000 fine and after that any violations would come with a $5,000 fine.

Official enforcement comes as nearly 60 percent of New Yorkers have been fully vaccinated, according to city Department of Health figures, and de Blasio announced that 10.9 million vaccine doses had been administered in the city.

Coronavirus cases have also declined in the city from a recent seven-day moving average peak of 2,261 on August 18 to 1,511 on September 4.

With around 33 percent of the city population still completely unvaccinated, hesitancy remains a problem in some communities, despite incentives such as paying New Yorkers $100 to get their first shot at a city-run site.

As a result, de Blasio rolled out on Thursday a $35million program to provide bonuses to doctors that successfully refer patients to city vaccine sites.

The vaccine mandate policy was announced on August 3, and was met with a great deal of confusion.

Restaurant owners and advocates initially hit back, saying the industry could face collapse if restrictions continue to burden a sector of the economy that has faced lost revenues and a staffing crisis over the past year and a half.

Also as part of the vaccine mandate, businesses will be required display certain literature (pictured) that de Blasio said would be provided to owners

Enforcement of the policy comes as nearly 60 percent of city residents have been vaccinated

'Government is still making things harder on our industry. We cant take it much longer,' said New York State Restaurant Association President and CEO Melissa Fleischut, who says restaurants have suffered enough losses and restrictions during the pandemic.

Sean Ogs, manager of the Woodside Cafe in Queens, said he was 'floored' when he heard the news.

'We've already been in a struggle. I don't know how I'm going to deal with it,' Ogs said.

'It's going to be extra work. It'll make things impossible.'

De Blasio said on August 3 that some details of how the program will work still need to be worked out, but he did not think checking vaccination status should be too difficult for businesses, which already have to take tickets or show diners to a table.

Infections in the city are also down from a recent peak in mid August

Those looking to catch a Broadway show or get in a morning workout will need to pull out a CDC vaccination card or an app like the Excelsior Pass proving that they've had at least one jab of a Covid vaccine. Vaccination cards will be accepted as proof of inoculation, along with state and city apps.

Some patrons too were not pleased with the change.

Debbie McCarthy, a regular at the Woodside Cafe who is unvaccinated, said she was turned away over the weekend from several establishments that had already begun requiring proof of vaccinations from patrons.

'I'm a little shocked they would do that,' said McCarthy, who said she recovered from Covid a few months ago and believes her natural antibodies will protect from future infections.

'Why are they so afraid of people who haven't been vaccinated? I think we should have a choice.'
Authorities in Ecuador worked with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to take down a migrant smuggling ring that helped individuals reach the United States.

The migrants paid smugglers between $10,000 to $16,000 to be smuggled over the United States-Mexico border, the Ministry of Interior revealed Tuesday.

ICE's Homeland Securities Investigations agents provided support in seven raids in the provinces of Azuay, Canar, and Pichincha that led to the capture of nine alleged members of the smuggling organization.

Authorities seized $58,000, 14 cellphones, five computers, and ammunition.

Ecuador security forces review documents during one of the seven raids Tuesday that led to the arrest of nine alleged migrant smugglers in the provinces of Azuay, Canar, and Pichincha. The network was charging migrants between $10,000 to $16,000 to be moved from Ecuador to El Salvador and Panama before they landed in Mexico and were turned over to smugglers there who moved them into the United States

Pictured is some of the $58,000 that Ecuador cops seized from nine members of a migrant smuggling network who were arrested Tuesday

An alleged member of a migrant smuggling organization that for two years operated out of Ecuador was arrested during a series a raids. U.S. Customs and Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations aided Ecuador agents in the operation

The Attorney General's Office charged each of the nine Ecuadorian and foreign nationals with one count of organized crime in connection to the illegal trafficking of migrants.

Its petition to keep the smugglers in pre-trial detention was rejected by Criminal Judicial Unit of Gualaceo Judge Edwin Regalado, who released them and instructed them to wear an ankle monitor. They were ordered to appear before the court every 90 days and have been barred from leaving the country.

Investigators said the smuggling ring was operating for two years and provided its services to residents from the Ecuador cities of Gualaceo, Canar; La Troncal, Azuay; and Quito, Pichincha.

Individuals looking to migrate to the United States had to book a short stay at a hostel in Quito and purchased tourism packages, including airfare, that saw them connect in Panama and El Salvador before reaching Mexico.

Once there, they were met by 'coyotes,' or smugglers, who provided them passage over the 1,954-mile long border with the United States.

The government of Ecuador has noticed an increase in Ecuadorian nationals abandoning the country for the United States due to a sluggish economy that has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hundreds of thousands of residents were left without employment, and officials said 70 per cent of businesses closed at least temporarily.

Pictured are some of the documents that Ecuador's police and U.S. federal agents seized during seven raids on Tuesday in the provinces of Azuay, Canar, and Pichincha

Pictured are six of the nine alleged migrant smugglers arrested Tuesday in Ecuador. Criminal Judicial Unit of Gualaceo Judge Edwin Regalado released them and instructed them to wear an ankle monitor. They were ordered to appear before the court every 90 days and have been barred from leaving the country

Mexico's government announced in 2018 that Ecuadorians could visit without a visa. That gave those with a passport and a plane ticket a huge leap toward the U.S. border once pandemic travel restrictions were lifted.

More than 88,000 Ecuadorians left their homeland for Mexico in the first half of 2021, and more than 54,000 of them haven't returned, according to Ecuadorian government data. More than 22,000 of those trips occurred in July alone.

Ecuadorians surpassed Salvadorans as the fourth-largest nationality encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents at the United States-Mexico border, behind Mexicans, Guatemalans and Hondurans.

U.S. Border Patrol agents stopped Ecuadorians 17,314 times in July, compared with 3,598 times in January.

El Paso Sector Chief Patrol Agent Gloria Chavez provides snacks to the two girls from Ecuador who were abandoned by human smugglers and dropped over a 14-foot high border wall in New Mexico on March 30. The girls were reunited with their parents in New York in April

Monica Muquinche, whose husband disappeared in 2020 while trying to reach the United States, recently made it to New York after leaving Ecuador with her 10-year-old son Sebastian

Two Ecuadorian minors made international headlines March 30 when smugglers dumped them over a border wall in New Mexico.

Three-year-old Yareli and five-year-old Yasmina were reunited with their New York-based parents in late April.

Monica Muquinche, whose husband disappeared in 2020 while trying to reach the United States, recently made it to New York after leaving Ecuador's Andean highlands with her 10-year-old son Sebastian.

She flew to Mexico City, took a bus to the U.S. border, boated across and was detained by the Border Patrol.

Muquinche and her son spent one night in custody and then continued on to New York.

'I think God protected us,' said the 35-year-old woman said.

While Ecuadorians no longer needed smugglers for the journey north, they were turning in greater number to smugglers who could get them across the U.S. border itself.

'Since 2018, we have seen a big increase in Ecuadorians taking the Mexican route rather than trying the more complicated and dangerous path through Central America, said William Murillo, co-founder of the law firm 1800migrante.com that handles immigration cases.

Murillo said smugglers 'lie, trick people. We predicted we would have many deaths and disappeared migrants.'

The Foreign Ministry said this month that 54 Ecuadorians have been reported missing since the start of 2019 while trying to cross the U.S. border. Nineteen have disappeared so far this year.

The sudden leap in migration led Mexico to end the visa-free option. As of Saturday, Ecuadorians will once again need a visa. Mexican officials said the requirement is 'a provisional measure that will help ensure that Ecuadorians do not fall prey to human trafficking networks.'
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The Queen and the Royal Family are supporters of Black Lives Matter and 'care passionately about making this one nation bound by the same values' as the anti-racism movement, Her Majesty's most senior representative in London has revealed.

Sir Ken Olisa, the first black Lord-Lieutenant for Greater London, said he discussed the topic of racism with members of the royal household following George Floyd's murder in the US and the protests which subsequently engulfed western societies.

Asked by Channel 4 News if Buckingham Palace supports BLM, Sir Ken said: 'The answer is easily yes.'

He went on: 'I have discussed with the royal household this whole issue of race particularly in the last 12 months since the George Floyd incident. It's a hot conversation topic.

'The question is what more can we do to bind society to remove these barriers. They [the royals] care passionately about making this one nation bound by the same values.'

Sir Ken made the announcement while being interviewed for a programme for Black To Front, a Channel 4 initiative produced by an all-black presenting and reporting team. His interview will be broadcast at 7pm on Friday.

Buckingham Palace was rocked by allegations of racism after Harry and Meghan's bombshell interview with Oprah in March, in which they claimed an unnamed royal raised concerns about how dark Archie's skin tone might be.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex also suggested racism could be a factor behind the decision to deny Archie, the first mixed-race great-grandchild of Her Majesty, security protection or the title of prince.

The Queen later issued a statement saying the issues raised would be dealt with privately, but 'some recollections may vary', while William defended the monarchy, saying 'we're very much not a racist family'.

But the Sussex's unofficial biography Finding Freedom claimed they were left dismayed 'full ownership' of the race allegations was not taken, with a source noting: 'Months later and little accountability has been taken.'

The Queen and the royal family are supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement and 'care passionately about making this one nation bound by the same values', one of Her Majesty's representatives has revealed

Sir Ken Olisa, the first black Lord-Lieutenant for London, told Channel 4 that he had discussed the topic of racism with members of the royal household in the wake of George Floyd's murder in the US last year. Left: Sir Ken arrives for a service at Westminster Abbey in London in 2019. Right: Sir Ken with the Queen in October 2018

A Black Lives Matter protest march going through Oxford Street in June 2020

Buckingham Palace has also admitted it 'must do more' and is 'not where it would like to be' in terms of diversity, after publishing figures that revealed its proportion of ethnic minority employees stands at just 8.5 per cent, with a target of 10 per cent for 2022.

The Queen's household also brought in a change to its Diversity Strategy in early 2020 - which pre-dates the Oprah interview - to one that actively emphasises the importance of inclusion.

During the Channel 4 programme, Sir Ken also said the Queen had sought his advice after the Grenfell fire on whether to visit the site of the tragedy.

He said he advised the palace to go, but added: 'I remember thinking as it all happened, it was quite scary, we didn't know whether she would be booed or have things thrown at her etc and when she got out of the car all these people applauded.'

Writing for the Mail after the Oprah interview, Sir Ken said: 'I am the first to concede that although our direction of travel has been so positive, we have a long way to go. And, as Black Lives Matter reminded us, we need to pick up speed.

'To do that we need to learn to talk about racism - real and perceived. For example, I believe many white business leaders in the UK do nothing to further the cause of racial diversity for the very reason that they are afraid to discuss it, in case they inadvertently cause offence.

'That is why we must always concentrate on the context and intention of people's comments before we judge them. We should not feel afraid to address matters of race and skin colour - even if we make blunders - as long as our objective is benign.'

It comes after Buckingham Palace was rocked by allegations of racism after Harry and Meghan's bombshell interview with Oprah Winfrey in March this year

The book also accused courtiers of lying to the Press over Meghan and Harry's wishes about Archie being made a prince. Pictured: Archie, Meghan and Harry in Cape Town in 2019

Recently Harry and Meghan apparently asked for a meeting with the Queen to introduce her to their daughter Lilibet, born on June 4.

However, a source told The Sun that no meeting has been agreed upon yet and that it had left aides 'shocked' given the pair's interview with Oprah.

The source told the publication: 'Harry and Meghan have made this offer but a lot of people are shocked by the sheer nerve of it. They may genuinely want to see the Queen but it's breath-taking given what they've put her through this year.

'Her Majesty's staff have not responded so far. In fact there has also been discussion about Christmas - and whether an invitation should be sent to Harry and Meghan, after they spurned one last year.

Pictured: The new version of the book, an unauthorised account of Meghan and Harry's exit from royal life

'The Queen is still very fond of Harry, and would love to see Lilibet and her brother Archie.'

Meghan plunged the monarchy into crisis after telling Oprah that an unnamed royal had expressed 'concern' about Archie's skin before he was born.

The epilogue to the updated edition of Harry and Meghan biography Finding Freedom reveals that a source told authors Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand that the Sussexes had considered naming the family member - but had ultimately decided not to.

It also claimed that 'sources close to the Sussexes' had said that the royal family's reaction to the allegations made by the couple 'was not positive'.

The source told the authors that there had to be 'some acknowledgment' about what the Sussexes went through for there to be 'progress'.

The criticism came after a carefully-worded statement from the Queen following the controversial Oprah interview, which expressed concern for the couple but insisted that 'some recollections may vary'.

In the updated edition, the authors write that the 'unaddressed' allegations 'have continued to threaten the Royal Family's image around the world' and 'could no doubt bring down the monarchy'.

Sources told the authors that William was said to be 'furious' after the interview because 'private family matters were being discussed in the public domain'.

Days later, he firmly told reporters that the royals were 'very much not a racist family' but, according to the book, he is 'unlikely' to ever comment on the claims again.

The updated book claimed that although emotions within the royal family were still 'raw' over the Oprah interview, it quoted a source close to the couple saying the couple's intervention could 'force people to talk in order for the healing to begin'.

It also claimed Harry and Meghan felt courtiers were still trying to undermine them after Megxit by leaking information about them, including allegations that Meghan bullied staff.

The book pointed to allegations, which appeared in The Times in March ahead of the Oprah interview, from royal aides claiming Meghan had faced a complaint she bullied staff, driving out two personal assistants and undermining the confidence of a third member.

Meghan (centre) plunged the monarchy into crisis after telling Oprah (right) that an unnamed royal had expressed 'concern' about Archie's skin before he was born

The duchess denies the claims and Scobie and Durand said the 'attempt to discredit' Meghan by those who used to be in the couple's inner circle 'served as a reminder' to the Sussexes that they had made the right decision to leave.

The authors wrote: 'What has continued to be troubling for the couple, more than a year after their decision, is knowing that courtiers inside the institution are still appearing to actively undermine Harry and Meghan by deliberately leaking information to discredit them.'

The book also accused courtiers of lying to the Press over Meghan and Harry's wishes about Archie being made a prince. Meghan had suggested to Oprah that senior royals plotted to ensure Archie would never have a title or adequate security.

The book claimed that Palace aides were actually instructed to brief the Press that the couple did not want a title for Archie. It said that in reality, the couple did want the option, 'given that it would provide their son with a level of security that only comes with a title'.

The authors added: 'The differential treatment the couple felt had been bestowed upon their son was a major sting to Harry and Meghan.' But long-standing rules, laid down by George V, mean that the title of HRH passes only to the children of a sovereign and their grandchildren through the male line, meaning Archie will be given a title when his grandfather, Prince Charles, becomes king.

Despite the fallout from Megxit and the couple's explosive Oprah interview, the book claims that the Sussexes have no regrets.

A friend of Meghan told the authors that she found her interview with Oprah 'cathartic'. The friend added that all the things she had kept to herself or been 'too afraid to say' she felt 'safe to finally share. It was liberating'.
Julie Morris, 44, from Hindley, Wigan pictured, has been charged with aiding and abetting the rape of a girl under the age of 13 and inciting sexual activity with a child. Morris has been suspended by Wigan Council following her arrest.

A deputy head teacher at a primary school has been charged with facilitating the rape of a girl under 13, it emerged yesterday.

Julie Morris, 44, who has worked at St Georges Central Church of England Primary School for around ten years, was remanded in custody when she appeared in court on Monday.

She is charged with aiding and abetting the rape of a girl under 13 and inciting sexual activity with a child, also under 13.

Morris, who is the maths and religious education lead at the school, in Tyldesley near Wigan, has been suspended by Wigan Council.

Police confirmed that Morris from Hindley, near Wigan, had been charged alongside 52-year-old David Morris, of Eccleston, near St Helens, on Merseyside, who is accused of raping the child victim.

He has been charged with three counts of rape of a girl under 13 and inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Sources told the Mail that David Morris is not Julie Morriss husband and the pair are not related. The alleged victim is not believed to be a pupil and a spokesman for Merseyside police said the offences were unrelated to Julie Morriss employment.

However, parents of children at the 340-pupil school told of their shock yesterday at hearing that she had been charged with such serious offences.

One, who broke down in tears, said: It is all very upsetting. I dont want to comment on anyones personal life, all I will say is the school has been great for my children. Its a lovely school and the teachers are brilliant.

Another parent said: Wed heard rumours over the summer and then we got told shed been charged. She seemed lovely at school. Its a shock. Parents were informed of the charges in a letter from the head teacher, Mark Grogan.

He said the allegations were distressing and will come as a shock for everyone within the school community.

Morris has been suspended from her role as Deputy Head at St George's Central Church of England Primary School in Tyldesley, near Wigan following her arrest. Merseyside Police said the chargers were unconnected to Morris's role at the school

He added: It is important to emphasise the charges in relation to the alleged offences are not connected with our school.

A spokesman for Merseyside police said: We can confirm that two people have been charged with child sex offences which are alleged to have taken place in Eccleston.

David Morris has been charged with three counts of rape of a girl under 13 and causing and inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity.

Julie Morris has been charged with aiding and abetting the rape of a girl under 13 and inciting sexual activity with a child under 13. Julie Morris is employed in the education sector in Wigan.

Morris is due to appear in Liverpool Crown Court on October 4, alongside David Morris, 52, who has been charged with three counts of rape of a girl under 13 and inciting a girl under 13 to engage in sexual activity

We are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and Wigan Council to ensure that adequate safeguarding measures are in place. The offences for which she has been charged are not related to her employment in Wigan.

Both accused were remanded into custody by magistrates in Liverpool on Monday and are due to appear before a judge at Liverpool Crown Court on October 4.

According to her Linkedin page, Julie Morris has a degree in psychology from Lancaster University and also a specialist maths teacher qualification from Edge Hill University, in Ormskirk, also Lancashire.
Senator Robert F Kennedy still had the screams of a delirious crowd ringing in his ears after winning the California primary on June 5, 1968, when shortly after midnight he left the celebrations in the ballroom of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles and made his way into the kitchens.

He'd been told it was a shortcut to the Press room and, ignoring the misgivings of his bodyguard about the security risks, he made his way through the cramped quarters, pausing to shake hands with kitchen workers.

The handsome politician was looking to follow his older brother John into the White House but, seconds later, instead followed him in falling victim to the 'Kennedy curse' when he, too, was killed by an assassin's bullet.

Sirhan Sirhan, a 24-year-old Palestinian disgusted by Kennedy's support for Israel, opened fire with a .22 calibre revolver.

Senator Robert Kennedy awaits medical assistance as he lies on the floor of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles moments after he was shot

Kennedy was hit three times, including once in the head. Despite extensive efforts to remove bullet fragments from his brain, he died 26 hours later.

There seemed little doubt that the small, baby-faced Sirhan killed him and wounded five others  myriad witnesses saw him open fire and he confessed his guilt to police.

And yet even as Sirhan, now 77, was finally granted parole last month with the support of two of Bobby's children  Robert Jr and Douglas  a fierce debate continues to rage as to whether Sirhan really did kill the senator.

Indeed, Robert Jr's support for his release  a decision which must be approved by California's governor and which was strongly opposed by his other siblings and by their mother, Ethel, who say they are 'devastated'  hinges on his belief that a second gunman actually killed his father.

Robert Jr's reservations about Sirhan's responsibility for one of America's most notorious assassinations are shared by friends of his family and even by one of those wounded in the gunfire, Paul Schrade, a former union leader and friend of Bobby. Just as conspiracy theories continue to challenge the Warren Commission's finding that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in shooting JFK five years earlier, so too have sceptics long questioned Sirhan's conviction for killing RFK.

Police and prosecutors continue to dismiss such claims as fanciful, but that has hardly satisfied those who sniff an official cover-up.

Sirhan Sirhan (pictured), a 24-year-old Palestinian disgusted by Kennedy's support for Israel, opened fire with a .22 calibre revolver

As with Oswald, the prima facie evidence against the Christian Palestinian was strong. Sirhan, who'd moved to the U.S. with his family aged 12 and had wanted to be a jockey, admitted his guilt in Kennedy's assassination in a recorded confession to police four days later.

His trial heard Sirhan had watched a Kennedy speech at the Ambassador Hotel two days before the attack and had visited a shooting range for target practice shortly before the killing.

His binman testified that Sirhan had told him a month earlier he intended to shoot Kennedy. He'd made similar confessions in his journal. And he'd hung around near the Ambassador Hotel kitchens for around half an hour, asking if RFK would be coming that way, said witnesses. A jury convicted him of murder and sentenced him to death in 1969, although this was commuted to life imprisonment in 1972.

However, questions began to be asked almost immediately.

His defence team was criticised for not properly investigating the case before conceding Sirhan's guilt, instead concentrating too much on persuading the jury not to impose the death penalty by arguing he had 'diminished mental capacity', possibly after being kicked in the head by a horse. Sirhan later said he'd only confessed to the killing at his trial because his lawyer had told him to.

His lawyer hadn't even mentioned during the trial a post mortem report saying that Kennedy had been shot at point blank range from behind, including a fatal shot behind his ear. However, Sirhan had been standing in front of the senator and at some distance away, witnesses said.

Sirhan, now 77, was finally granted parole last month with the support of two of Bobby's children (pictured in August)

And while Sirhan admitted shooting Kennedy, he insisted he remembered nothing of that day apart from the moment he opened fire.

He had no memory either of having written 'RFK must die' in notebooks at home.

Such curious haziness, together with Sirhan's otherwise mild-mannered personality, prompted spectacular claims that he might have been the target of coercive hypnosis, brainwashed into assassinating RFK when given a certain cue.

Could that cue have been given by a mystery attractive dark-haired woman in a white polka-dot dress seen by several witnesses with Sirhan at the hotel?

When prosecutors produced a blonde woman who had been wearing a green polka-dot dress and claimed she was the mysterious woman in question, Sirhan's lawyers failed to challenge the obvious discrepancies.

Although his defence originally chose not to argue he had been hypnotised, the theory has since gained new currency.

He was examined for many hours a decade ago by a Harvard University hypnosis expert, Professor Daniel Brown, who said Sirhan was incredibly easy to hypnotise.

Brown argued Sirhan was a real-life version of the main character in the 1962 Hollywood thriller The Manchurian Candidate, in which communists 'hypno-programme' an American POW to shoot a U.S. presidential candidate. Experts say CIA research has shown it's possible to hypnotise people to become assassins.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (left) and Douglas Kennedy (right) have supported Sirhan's recommendation for parole

Prof Brown outlined an extraordinary plot in which Sirhan had worked as a stable lad for a ranch owner with links to the Mafia and CIA.

He said that after once injuring himself falling from a horse, Sirhan was drugged and taken to a secret location for mind-control experiments like those performed by the CIA. The agency and the Mob have both been key players in conspiracy theories over JFK's death. Sceptics of this outlandish tale say Prof Brown was taken in by Sirhan, who had read up on hypnosis and knew exactly what would sound convincing.

Leaving aside CIA mind control, there was the crucial question of how many bullets had been fired that night  and by who. Ballistics became a key battleground in the arguments over Sirhan's guilt. Lead crime scene investigator DeWayne Wolfer had testified at the trial that a bullet taken from Kennedy's body and bullets from two wounded victims all matched Sirhan's gun.

But other experts who examined the three bullets said that they had markings from different guns and different manufacturers.

An internal police document emerged that concluded that 'Kennedy and Weisel [a TV producer who was wounded] bullets not fired from same gun' and 'Kennedy bullet not fired from Sirhan's revolver'.

In 1975, an LA judge called on a panel of seven forensic experts to examine the three bullets and re-fire Sirhan's gun. The panel were unable to match the three bullets with Sirhan's gun and, criticising the original police forensic examination, called for further investigation.

RFK was shot in Los Angeles after giving a victory speech following his win in the South Dakota and California 1968 Democratic presidential primaries (Pictured: Ethel, left, RFK, right)

Another question mark hung over exactly how many bullets had been fired. Witnesses said bullet holes were found in door frames in the hotel's kitchen area, but the three bullets that hit Kennedy and the five that wounded others would have accounted for all eight rounds in Sirhan's revolver.

Given he hadn't had time to reload before two bystanders forced him down on to a metal countertop and shook the gun out of his hand, that suggested there had been a second gun. Police countered that the holes in the door frames hadn't been made by bullets but the evidence had been destroyed after the trial.

Some have even talked darkly of a police cover-up, a theory that received a boost in 1988 when  after years of resisting calls to release their files on the case  investigators and prosecutors finally offered up a huge amount of new material.

It included an audiotape made in the hotel ballroom by a Polish journalist who had left the tape running after Kennedy left the victory celebrations. An audio engineer said it revealed there had not only been around 13 rather than eight gun shots, but that they had been fired from different directions and from different guns.

It's worth noting that others disagree with that analysis, insisting there really were only ever eight shots and arguing that Kennedy almost certainly would have turned to protect himself after Sirhan rushed towards him, (shouting 'You son of a b****, Kennedy' according to some witnesses), thereby allowing the gunman to shoot him in the back of his head.

Those who have questioned the official view that Sirhan was the lone gunman found an important ally in Paul Schrade, the union leader who had accompanied Kennedy from the ballroom and who was hit by a bullet just above his forehead, although it miraculously bounced off his skull.

Mr Schrade believed that Sirhan had fired the bullets that wounded him and four others but he has been convinced for decades that he didn't fire the one that killed Bobby.

Robert Kennedy was walking through the kitchen of the hotel stopping to speak with supporters when he was shot, June 1968

Now 96, Mr Schrade told a parole board hearing five years ago there was 'clear evidence' that a second gunman shot Kennedy. He insists investigators knew there was a second gunman but wanted to wrap up the case quickly so never pursued him.

Fellow witness Nina Rhodes-Hughes, a Kennedy campaign fundraiser who was there, has also fuelled the 'second gunman' theory, telling CNN in 2012: 'What has to come out is that there was another shooter to my right.' Most importantly, Mr Schrade passed his views on to Robert Kennedy Jr who swung around to the same view after visiting Sirhan in prison in 2018.

'I went there because I was curious and disturbed by what I had seen in the evidence,' Mr Kennedy, an environmental lawyer and the oldest of RFK's 11 children, told the Washington Post in 2018.

'I was disturbed that the wrong person might have been convicted of killing my father. My father was the chief law enforcement officer in this country.

'I think it would have disturbed him if somebody was put in jail for a crime they didn't commit.'

So who was the second gunman? The finger has been pointed at Thane Eugene Cesar, an armed private security guard who was standing behind Kennedy when he was shot. Cesar, who died in 2019, admitted he drew his gun but insisted he never fired it, although he gave conflicting accounts over the years.

It's been claimed that Cesar had extreme Right-wing views and hated the Kennedys. Robert Kennedy Jr is among those who believes Cesar killed his father, releasing a statement as soon as he died claiming the guard had 'grabbed my father by the elbow and guided him toward Sirhan'. When Kennedy recoiled after Sirhan started shooting, he fell back straight on to the drawn weapon of Cesar, said the senator's son.

So, hypnotised fall guy for a sinister CIA plot or just further proof of America's hopeless addiction to conspiracy theories?

Whether Sirhan Sirhan is finally released or not, the battle over his place in American history seems certain to continue.
President Joe Biden on Thursday declared war on the 80 million Americans who have yet to get a COVD vaccine and asked them 'what more is there to wait for' as he announced mandates covering two thirds of all workers.

'This is not about freedom or personal choice. It's about protecting yourself and those around you, the people you work with, the people you care about, the people you love. My job as president is to protect all Americans,' he said in remarks in the State Dining Room at the White House.

'We've been patient but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So please do the right thing,' he said.

Biden's speech was a marked change from previous remarks on the pandemic. He took a harsh tone with those who have not gotten vaccinated and expressed impatience with their decision not to get a shot in the arm.

And he addressed that crowd directly, in stark language, where he called out those who cast doubt about the safety and efficiency of vaccines.

He also outlined a series of new government mandates that will require shots in the arms for two-thirds of employed Americans. Federal employees who refuse can be fired and companies that don't comply will face thousands of dollars in fines.

Republicans, including governors, called the orders 'coercive' and 'unconstitutional' and have vowed to fight back in the courts and with legislation.

Both his tone and his action were some of the strictest measures he's taken since he became president - a move that comes as hospitalizations are up across the United States as the Delta variant continues to plague the nation.

Biden charged the unvaccinated with 'overcrowding our hospitals and overrunning emergency rooms intensive care units, leaving no room for someone with a heart attack or pancreatic cancer.'

The president decried the 'pandemic politics' that he said was behind those who had not yet gotten a shot in the arm, calling out public officials who were 'actively working to undermine the fight against COVID-19.'

'These pandemic politics, as I refer to, are making people sick, causing unvaccinated people to die. We cannot allow these actions to stand in the way of protecting the large majority of Americans who have done their part and want to get back to life as normal,' he said.

He charged those who were fighting against COVID-19 mitigation procedures with helping increase the death rate. He didn't mention any specific official by name by his administration has publicly clashed with the Republican governors of Florida and Texas, Rick DeSantis and Greg Abbott.

President Joe Biden slammed the 80 million Americans who have yet to get a COVD vaccine shot, asking them 'what more is there to wait for'

'There are elected officials actively working to undermine the fight against COVID-19,' Biden said. 'Instead of encouraging people to get vaccinated and mask up, they're ordering mobile morgues for the unvaccinated dying from COVID in their communities. This is totally unacceptable.'

He ended his nearly 30 minute speech with a whispered plea: 'Get vaccinated.'

'My message to unvaccinated Americans is this - what more is there to wait for?,' Biden said. 'What more to you need to see? We've made vaccinations free, safe, and convenient. The vaccine has FDA approval. Over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot.'

In his remarks, Biden announced an aggressive new plan to get 100 million employees across the federal government and private sector vaccinated against COVID as the case rate continues to rise due to the Delta variant.

To reach his goal, Biden will use the sweeping power of the federal government, ordering companies to vaccinate workers or face financial penalties.

Hell have the Labor Department issue an emergency, temporary order to require all businesses with 100 or more employees to ensure every worker is either fully vaccinated or gets tested at least once a week. The order covers over 80 million employees and it will require employers with 100 or more employees to give employees paid time off to get vaccinated.

Any business that violates the new rule will face substantial fines, up to $14,000.

Biden argued some of the biggest companies in the country already required vaccines, including, he noted, Fox News. Many conservative viewers of Fox News also refuse to get the vaccine.

'Some of the biggest companies are already requiring this - United Airlines, Disney, Tyson food, and even Fox News,' he said.

He will also require all workers in healthcare settings that receive Medicaid or Medicare reimbursement to get vaccinated, which will apply to 17 million healthcare workers.

He also issued an executive order Thursday night requiring all federal employees and contractors to get vaccinated.

Additionally, the roughly 300,000 educators in headstart programs will be required to be vaccinated.

And the TSA is doubling fines for people who refuse to mask on planes. The new range of penalties, which take effect Friday, September 10, 2021, will be $500-$1000 for first offenders and $1000-$3000 for second offenders, the Department of Homeland Security announced.

Biden denounced those who refuse to wear masks on flights, admonishing them to 'show some respect.'

'If you break the rules, be prepared to pay,' Biden warned in his remarks. 'And by the way, show some respect. The anger you see on television toward flight attendants and others doing their job is wrong, it's ugly.'

Biden also called on governors to require vaccinations for all school teachers and staff, a call that will likely not go over well in Southern states like Texas and Florida, where the GOP governors have pushed back against the CDCs requirement for face masks in schools.

In Florida, Republican Gov. Rick DeSantis has threatened to with hold funding from school districts that require face masks.

To counter moves like that, the Department of Education will make additional funding available to help local school districts backfill salaries and other areas where it has been with held.

'My plan also takes on elected officials in states that are undermining you and these life saving actions. Right now, local school officials are trying to keep children safe in a pandemic while their governor picks a fight with them and even threatens their salaries or their jobs. Talk about bullying in schools. If they'll not help us beat the pandemic I'll use my power as president to get them out of the way,' he vowed.

Biden also announced a ramp up in testing, using the Defense Production Act to accelerate the production of rapid tests, including at home test, and purchase $2 billion worth of rapid tests e and over the counter at home COVID tests for a total of 280 million tests.

Earlier in the day, the administration revealed Biden will require all of the roughly 2.1 million federal workers to be vaccinated as part of a series of his tough new mandates.

There will be limited exceptions but any federal employee who refuses the shot can be fired, White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday.

Federal employees and contractors will have 75 days to get vaccinated.

The executive order will not include an option of being regularly tested to opt out of the vaccine requirement. The orders will apply to workers in the executive branch but not the congressional or judicial.

'There will be limited exceptions for legally recognized reasons disability or religious objections,' Psaki said. Anyone who 'fails to comply, they will go through the standard HR process, which includes counseling and face disciplinary action,' she added.

She confirmed that action could include termination of employment.

'Hopefully it won't come to that,' she said.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said any federal employee who doesn't get vaccinated can be fired

President Joe Biden greets labor union members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers on Labor Day

She said the administration wanted the federal government to serve as an example for other businesses and organizations when it comes to vaccines.

'Obviously the federal workforce is one of the largest in the country and we would like to be a model to what we think other businesses, organizations should do,' she noted. 'The expectation is that if you want to work with federal government or be a contractor, you need to be vaccinated unless you are eligible for one of the exemptions.'

Republican Congressman Rob Wittman of Virginia, who has federal workers in his district, said he objected to the forced vaccines.

'Although I have personally been vaccinated and regularly encourage those I represent to get vaccinated as well, I fundamentally disagree with forcibly injecting America's public servants,' he told DailyMail.com in a statement.

'Our government was founded to secure the individual liberties of all. We should instead continue educating the public that the COVID-19 vaccines are both safe and effective. Resorting to forced vaccinations, and returning to unnecessary restrictions, only serves to eliminate critically important vaccination incentives and undermine public confidence in the vaccines' efficacy,' he added.

The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest union of federal workers, said they would bargain over the order.

'Workers deserve a voice in their working conditions,' the group said in a statement. 'Neither of these positions has changed. We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so.'

And the National Federation of Federal Employees, another government workers union, said they didn't receive advance notice of the executive order.

Psaki dismissed questions about the unions not being consulted. The Biden White House has bragged about its pro-union stance. At a Labor Day event on Wednesday, Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said President Biden told him: 'This is labor's house.'

'We have a range of consultation with labor unions, and that has been the case for several weeks and months as we have worked to implement additional steps,' Psaki said.

'But our objective here is to continue to save lives.'

The president is putting more pressure on states, businesses and schools to get people vaccinated as the Delta variant causes the case rate to continue to rise in the United States.

But Republican-led states including Texas and Florida have pushed back and are in the process of trying to ban the orders being imposed.

Psaki indicated in interviews on Thursday morning that more mandates were coming.

'What we've seen work over the past couple months are mandates, requirements, making it so workers in the federal government or others have to get vaccinated. We've seen it work and we've seen it become more popular,' Psaki said on MSNBC's Morning Joe.

'He's going to speak directly to vaccinated people and their frustrations and he wants them to hear how we're going to build on what we've done to date to get the virus under control,' she said.

The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Veterans Affairs already mandate vaccines for their employees. The military also has issued a vaccine mandate.

There have now been more than 40 million cases of COVID recorded among Americans, which is nearly one-fifth of the global total of cases.

Biden, in his remarks scheduled for 5 p.m. ET time, will address six areas where his administration can push for more Americans to get vaccinated: that includes new plans to get more people vaccinated, enhancing protection for those who already have had shots, keeping schools open, increasing testing and mask-wearing, protecting the economic recovery and improving healthcare.

The president will also urge business to implement strict vaccine requirements. Major corporations like WalMart, McDonalds and Disney require high-level employees, such as managers or white-collar workers, to get vaccinated. Most hospitals and universities require the vaccine. On Thursday the Los Angeles school district also said they would require it.

President Biden and administration officials have repeatedly emphasized the best way for life to return to normal is for people to get vaccinated.

Biden also plans to call for a global summit, to be held during the U.N. General Assembly later this month, to respond to the pandemic and talk about how to get more vaccine supply to the developing world.

About 27 per cent of the eligible U.S. population age 12 and older have not received any COVID vaccine, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Meanwhile about 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated.

In December 2020, after he was elected but before he took office, Biden said he didn't think COVID vaccines were necessary.

'I will do everything in my power as president to encourage people to do the right thing and when they do it, demonstrate that it matters,' he said at the time.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anthony Fauci said this week Americans are getting infected with COVID at 10 times the rate needed to end the pandemic.

'We're still in pandemic mode, because we have 160,000 new infections a day,' Fauci told Axios. 'That's not even modestly good control.'

'In a country of our size, you can't be hanging around and having 100,000 infections a day,' he continued. 'You've got to get well below 10,000 before you start feeling comfortable.'

About 75 per cent of Americans have received at least one shot and 53 per cent are fully vaccinated

The vaccination rate among Americans has increased since July, which is when the Delta variant caused case rates to spike, but it remains low in Southern states like Florida and Texas.

Biden will also address the divide between the vaccinated and unvaccinated.

'He also will acknowledge the fact that the 175 million people who are vaccinated out there, many of them are frustrated. They want to go back to normal. Of course they do. That's going to require moving more unvaccinated people to a vaccinated status. That's what he'll talk about,' Psaki told CNN on Thursday morning.

In his remarks, Biden also will seek to return his focus to the COVID pandemic, resetting the narrative after the difficult evacuation of Americans from Afghanistan and from Democratic in-fighting on Capitol Hill over his $3.5 trillion budget filled with social programs.

The Biden administration has already taken steps to try and stop Republican-led states from rolling back COVID mandates.

Last month, the Education Department announced a civil rights investigations into five states that banned schools from imposing mask mandates, claiming their stance could discriminate against students with disabilities or health problems.

Education chiefs in Iowa, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah have been told they are under investigation.

'It's simply unacceptable that state leaders are putting politics over the health and education of the students they took an oath to serve,' said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.

'The department will fight to protect every student's right to access in-person learning safely.'
Leading politicians, legal figures and victims of police misconduct last night joined growing calls for Dame Cressida Dick to step down as the head of Scotland Yard.

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner is poised to receive a two-year contract extension despite presiding over a string of scandals with critics accusing her tenure of damaging public confidence in Britain's largest force.

In an open letter to the Prime Minister yesterday, exclusively revealed in the Daily Mail, seven prominent victims of police corruption and incompetence said Dame Cressida should quit and the 'unfit for purpose' police complaints process should be overhauled.

Signatories including Baroness Lawrence, the mother of murdered black teenager Stephen Lawrence, and Lady Brittan, whose late husband, former Cabinet minister Lord Brittan, was investigated over bogus claims of a Westminster paedophile ring, accused the Met of 'racial discrimination, systemic corruption and the reckless... harassment of innocent people'.

Dame Cressida Dick (pictured) is poised to get a two-year contract extension despite presiding over a string of scandals with critics accusing her of damaging confidence in UK's largest force

Patsy Stevenson (pictured) - a student arrested by Scotland Yard officers during a vigil for murdered Sarah Everard - accused Dame Cressida Dick of 'letting women down'

The letter was also signed by Alastair Morgan, whose brother, private investigator Daniel Morgan, was murdered with an axe in 1987.

In June a 20million report into the notorious unsolved murder branded the Met 'institutionally corrupt' and accused Dame Cressida of trying to thwart the inquiry.

She's let women down, says student arrested at vigil for Sarah A student arrested by Scotland Yard officers during a vigil for murdered Sarah Everard yesterday accused Dame Cressida Dick of 'letting women down' by failing to address 'systemic' issues within the force. Patsy Stevenson, 28, was pinned to the floor by two policemen during a memorial service to Miss Everard, who was killed by serving Metropolitan Police officer Wayne Couzens. An image of Miss Stevenson being held down became a defining image of criticism levelled at an allegedly heavy-handed police operation on Clapham Common, south London, in March. Miss Stevenson spoke out after former Metropolitan Police Commissioner Ian Blair leapt to the defence of Dame Cressida, alleging she was a victim of sexism. Lord Blair, who was sacked as commissioner by then-London Mayor Boris Johnson, said on BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'I just don't think the criticism is fair and I do think there is a slight tinge here of the fact this is a woman and I feel there is a sense of just unpleasantness about it that I don't think is appropriate.' Lord Blair, commissioner between 2005 and 2008, said Dame Cressida was the victim of a 'whispering campaign'. But Miss Stevenson, who has initiated legal proceedings against the Yard over the nature of her arrest, said change is required, adding: 'The Met needs to be held accountable for systemic issues  sexism, racism, deaths in custody. 'When I was first asked [at the time of the vigil] whether she should resign I thought of the fact that she is the first woman and first gay woman to lead the force, which should be a boon for the LGBT community and women. But she has really let the side down.' Advertisement

Last night, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey said the Met 'desperately needs new leadership'.

He continued: 'Met police officers who work incredibly hard and risk their lives to keep us safe deserve far better.

'They need new leadership that will change the culture and rebuild the public trust and confidence that officers need to do their jobs and keep us all safe.'

Nazir Afzal, former chief crown prosecutor for north-west England, said Dame Cressida's position is 'untenable'.

He continued: 'How disappointing that Home Secretary Priti Patel has lazily succumbed to allowing Dame Cressida Dick to remain as Met Police Commissioner for a further two years despite the catalogue of reasons she should be replaced.

'I always thought Dame Cressida was a very good investigator, but it takes more than that to lead the largest force in Europe.

'I believe there are better candidates for the job out there. Public confidence in policing, particularly in the Met, has taken an enormous knock.

'By saying that not only will she see out her term but get an extra two years, I can't begin to tell you how demoralising it must be for officers and how painful that must feel for the citizens of London.'

Yesterday the Prime Minister's official spokesman insisted Dame Cressida retains his support.

But he refused to respond to demands for Boris Johnson to meet the seven signatories of the open letter criticising the Met.

'On the concerns raised, the PM is very clear that he wants to see those serious concerns looked at very carefully,' he added.

'The Government expects the whole of the Met leadership team to respond positively and openly to those criticisms.'

John Brown, 67, is suing the Metropolitan Police for up to 5million for alleged malicious prosecution and misfeasance in a public office.

The brother of Ireland's 1970 Eurovision winner Dana, he was cleared of historical sex offences in 2014 and has accused officers of deliberately choosing not to pursue basic lines of inquiry to secure a prosecution in the wake of the Jimmy Savile scandal.

He said: 'The Met has failed genuine victims of sexual abuse as well as those wrongly accused.

'It's bad enough [Dame Cressida] got through this term, but getting an extra two years at the head of a force which has just gone through the Daniel Morgan report, Operation Midland [the Met's disastrous inquiry into bogus claims of a VIP paedophile ring], and the Sarah Everard [murder] case.

'It shows there is no accountability. It is all about protecting those at the top.'

HARRIET SERGEANT: It's so nauseating that a failed ex-Met chief can blithely dismiss criticism of Dick as 'sexist'... especially as Stephen Lawrence's mother and Leon Brittan's widow signed bombshell letter demanding she step aside

Commentary by Harriet Sergeant

By any measure it was an extraordinary reaction to a bombshell letter to the Prime Minister.

Published in the Daily Mail and signed by seven high-profile and respected victims of police corruption, incompetence and malpractice, the letter detailed allegations of serious failures by the Met Commissioner, Dame Cressida Dick, and demanded she leave her post when her current contract expires.

Even as the fallout was dominating the news agenda on national TV and radio and newspaper websites yesterday morning, Lord Ian Blair, a long-time supporter of Dick, was telling BBC Radio 4's Today programme that the calls for her to go were sexist. He spoke of 'a sort of whispering campaign against Cressida for some time'.

'I do think there's a slight tinge here of the fact this is a woman and I feel there's a sense of unpleasantness about it that I don't think is appropriate,' Lord Blair said primly, adding: 'I think she is a very, very fine officer.'

This was a breathtaking assumption and deeply offensive to the signatories  and particularly to the two women among them. Baroness Lawrence is the mother of teenager Stephen who was murdered by racist thugs.

Lady Brittan is the widow of former Home Secretary Leon who was hounded by the police over rape and murder allegations made by serial fantasists even as he lay dying.

Signed by seven victims of police corruption, a letter to the Prime Minister detailed allegations of serious failures by the Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick (pictured)

So how did it come to this  that the very real grievances of Baroness Lawrence, Lady Brittan and their co-signatories  Alastair Morgan, Paul Gambaccini, Nicolas Bramall, Michael McManus and Harvey Proctor  over their treatment and that of their loved ones by the Met, was reduced to a row about gender?

Of course, it was a trailblazing moment when Cressida Dick was appointed as the first female Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in 2017. But it does not mean that because she is a woman we should ignore her gross failings.

Lord Blair  and it has to be said the BBC's 'flagship' Today programme too  blithely ignored this major intervention into the scrutiny of long-standing police corruption and incompetence, while seemingly accusing two courageous women of sexism.

Incidentally when presenter Nick Robinson listed the signatories of the letter he omitted Baroness Lawrence altogether.

And he also failed to disclose that Lord Blair had been let go as commissioner by the then-London Mayor, Boris Johnson.

During the interview, Lord Blair even laughed as he pointed out that every Met Commissioner has been the target of critical headlines like those in the Mail.

Well it is a pity Lord Blair, who along with Dame Cressida was involved in the operation that led to the mistaken police shooting of Jean Charles de Menezes at Stockwell tube station in 2005, does not know his police history better.

For he entirely misses the grave importance of the Mail's campaigning on this issue of staggering injustice.

While researching my report, The Public and the Police, for the think-tank Civitas in 2008, I interviewed five police forces.

The experience taught me that in the UK we enjoy a unique style of policing that we should not take for granted.

Initiated by the Met's first two joint commissioners, Charles Rowan and Richard Mayne, in the first half of the nineteenth century, their concept was a police force that relied not on fear but on co-operation with the public.

This co-operation continues to rely on good and honest police behaviour, which, as the renowned historian of British policing, Charles Reith points out, 'secures and maintains', for the police, 'the approval, respect and affection of the public'. It is vital for the health of our democracy that this is maintained.

Signatories included (L-R) Baroness Lawrence, Nick Bramall, Alastair Morgan, Harvey Proctor, Michael McManus, Paul Gambaccini and Lady Brittan

Today that important relationship between the police and the public is, by any standards, badly frayed. I would argue that, in recent years, a large part of that is down to Dame Cressida.

Lord Blair claims that she is being unjustly criticised over a number of historic cases.

He has a point  but she also had a golden opportunity to show abject remorse over past mistakes of the Met, to come clean on them, restore its reputation and to demonstrate the force has turned over a new leaf.

A leader with integrity and courage would have grabbed that opportunity. But Dick is not that leader. Instead she has presided over cover-ups, displayed incompetence and entrenched public despair and distrust.

Take just one example: in June a government-appointed panel reviewing the investigation into the 1987 murder of Daniel Morgan  a private eye found dead in a London car park with an axe embedded in his head  accused the Met of placing the protection of its reputation above uncovering the truth.

It branded the Met 'institutionally corrupt' and personally criticised Dick for obstructing access to documents the inquiry panel thought vital, and for prolonging the investigation by years.

The panel's report lambasted her and the culture of the Met, and warned that public confidence may be damaged by its findings. Her response? To dismiss its conclusions.

So what has gone wrong? A member of Special Branch who worked under Cressida Dick admitted doing 'a little dance of delight' when he heard she'd been appointed to lead the Met.

'She cares passionately about her officers,' he told me recently. 'But things have not turned out as well as I had hoped.'

As she has moved higher up the ladder, the approachable and kindly boss grew more out of touch and distant, surrounding herself with the 'wrong' sort of people.

When he sought to approach her on a vital matter 'as was my right,' her staff officers blocked him. Others found the same.

When he remarked on her lack of success to two fellow officers 'they jumped down my throat', claiming that Dick put loyalty to her officers first and that loyalty was 'the number one requirement of a commissioner'.

Their view sums up much of what is wrong with the Met and its current chief. Dame Cressida's loyalty has come at a price.

Of course, it was a trailblazing moment when Cressida Dick (pictured) was appointed as the first female Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police in 2017

She knew that the revelations around Daniel Morgan's murder, even at this distance, were damaging and dangerous to the Met.

Her first reaction was to block when her first concern should have been her duty to the community she is meant to serve  and to events surrounding Daniel Morgan's family who have yet to see justice.

The sad reality is that, as the letter published in yesterday's Mail made clear, Dame Cressida's actions over many years  from events surrounding the Daniel Morgan and Stephen Lawrence murders to the fiasco of the sex abuse allegations of Operations Midland and Yewtree  have irretrievably damaged the reputation of the force she sought to protect.

Her brief when she was appointed was to modernise the Met and avoid headlines. She has conspicuously failed to do either. She could perhaps have succeeded if she had shown more openness to criticism backed with a new system of governance.

She is hardly likely to do that in the next two years if, as is believed, her contract is extended.

The truth is that we cannot afford more of this inertia. If we are to continue to police by consent, we must avoid the steady drift towards alienation of police and people.

That is why the Mail's campaigning stance is to be welcomed and must be heard.

Otherwise we face an uncertain future where policing lurches between the ineffective and the authoritarian, where good officers resign and the public react with discontent and lawlessness.

Cressida Dick has accelerated that drift and that is why she has to go.

Harriet Sergeant is an investigative journalist and author of The Public and the Police

Gambaccini: I'm coming for the BBC next

By Glen Keogh

Paul Gambaccini said yesterday he is 'coming for the BBC' over its alleged complicity in the child sex abuse 'witch hunt'.

In an explosive interview with the corporation's Victoria Derbyshire, Mr Gambaccini, who presents BBC Radio 2's Pick of the Pops, accused his employer of being 'on the side of the wrongdoers' in its reporting of alleged VIP abuse cases.

He even offered to go 'head-to-head' with the BBC's outgoing news chief Fran Unsworth in a public debate, in which he said he would 'dissect her like a frog'.

Mr Gambaccini, 72, interviewed on BBC News yesterday, was arrested over false sex abuse allegations in 2013 and spent a year on bail before the case was dropped by Operation Yewtree detectives working under Miss Dick, then a Scotland Yard assistant commissioner.

Paul Gambaccini (pictured) said yesterday he is 'coming for the BBC' over its alleged complicity in the child sex abuse 'witch hunt'

He later received a 250,000 out-of-court settlement from the Metropolitan Police for privacy breaches.

Speaking to Miss Derbyshire, Mr Gambaccini criticised the BBC for its interviews with the fantasist 'Nick', who accused a string of VIPs of involvement in a murderous paedophile ring.

He said 'Nick'  aka Carl Beech  had been given 'free reign' on the BBC's Six O'Clock News, and also hit out at the corporation's coverage of a police raid on Sir Cliff Richard's home in 2014.

Of the alleged targeting of celebrities in Yewtree and other operations, he said: 'All throughout the witch-hunt the BBC was on the side of the wrongdoers.

'We haven't come for the BBC yet but don't think we are going to go away. In the years to come, boy, the truth about the BBC's complicity in the witch-hunt will be known.'

On BBC director of news Miss Unsworth, who has announced she was leaving the corporation, he added: 'Fran Unsworth has taken life's last leap and a good thing too because she was on the wrong side with the Cliff Richard thing.

'I will go head to head with Fran Unsworth in any public forum and I will dissect her like a frog, without ether.'
Michel Barnier was branded a hypocrite last night after calling for France to take back control of its sovereignty from the EUs courts.

During talks with the UK, the EUs former chief Brexit negotiator insisted that obedience to the European Court of Justice (ECJ) was a pre-requisite for free-flowing trade.

But Mr Barnier, who is now considering a run at the French presidency next year, yesterday said the role of the ECJ in France should be limited. In an extraordinary intervention, he said: We must regain our legal sovereignty so that we are no longer subject to the rulings of the European Court of Justice or the European Court of Human Rights.

During the Brexit talks, Mr Barnier tried to get the UK to sign up to ECJ oversight  a move that was resisted by Boris Johnson and chief negotiator Lord Frost

Mr Barnier also called for a referendum on banning non-EU immigration to France.

During the Brexit talks, Mr Barnier tried to get the UK to sign up to ECJ oversight  a move that was resisted by Boris Johnson and chief negotiator Lord Frost.

But he succeeded in persuading the UK to continue with the European Convention on Human Rights as part of the Brexit trade deal. Last night, Mr Barnier clarified that he was not calling for France to pull out of the institutions but wanted a constitutional shield to protect France from their rulings on immigration.

Tory MP Michael Fabricant accused Mr Barnier of breathtaking hypocrisy and said he appeared to be calling for Frexit from the European Union.

He added: This is the same Michel Barnier who during the Brexit negotiations tried to belittle the UK for demanding control over our courts and our borders. Now he wants the same for France.

Former minister Simon Clarke said: This is ironic in the extreme: Barnier preaching the merits of national sovereignty to curb the over-powerful EU and European Court of Human Rights.

And Nigel Farage said that Mr Barniers adoption of Eurosceptic arguments made him the biggest hypocrite ever.

Mr Barniers hardline stance on immigration reflects rising concern in France that the country is unable to control its borders.

However, the 70-year-old is thought to have little chance of succeeding Emmanuel Macron in next years presidential elections, as the National Rallys Marine le Pen has championed the anti-immigration issue for years.

Earlier this year, Mr Barnier called for France to halt non-EU immigration for up to five years. The politician claimed there are links between immigration and terrorism and called the EUs external borders a sieve.

But during the Brexit negotiations he resisted Britains efforts to take back control of its own borders, insisting that frictionless trade was only possible if the UK accepted the EUs free movement rules.

Mr Barnier yesterday also criticised the Franco-German relationship at the heart of EU policy making.

He said that the relationship was unbalanced, with Berlin becoming too powerful  and called for France to reassert itself.

The former French minister won plaudits in Brussels for his hardline stance on Brexit during more than two years of negotiations with the UK.

And last year, the campaign group European Movement Ireland voted him European of the Year.

But his recent comments have left former admirers aghast.

Mujtaba Rahman, a former European Commission official, said Mr Barnier was embarrassing himself, and the rest of Europe.
A demolition worker accused of murdering his aspiring model wife has been found dead in his jail cell after his weight ballooned to 150kg behind bars.

Sabah Hafiz, 23, was found dead in her home at Wentworthville, western Sydney, on October 14 last year.

Police alleged at the time she had been seriously assaulted and no weapon appeared to have been used.

Her husband Adam Cureton, 25, was arrested the next day and charged with her murder.

Sabah Hafiz, 23, was found dead in her western Sydney unit in the early hours of October 14, 2020. Her husband Adam Cureton, 25, was arrested the next day and charged with her murder. The two are pictured together

Police alleged at the time Ms Hafiz had been seriously assaulted and no weapon appeared to have been used

Adam Cureton, 25, died behind bars in June. His case has now been dismissed by a magistrate

Cureton was awaiting trial over the killing when he died behind bars on June 13 at Silverwater jail in the city's west.

His sister Alicia said corrections staff believe her brother suffered a heart attack, The Daily Telegraph reported.

'They basically just said he had passed in his sleep sometime earlier in the morning, they thought it was a heart attack,' she said.

'He went in at 70kg and when he died he was 130, nearly 150 [kg].

His sister said the anti-psychotic medication he had been taking in prison was known to cause weight gain and that his death may have been accidental.

'It wasnt suicide all I know was he was on heavy medication  anti psychotics. Ive been told he was taking other peoples medication,' she said.

Parramatta Local Court magistrate Peter Feather has now dismissed the case against Cureton.

Corrective Services NSW confirmed Cureton was found unresponsive in his cell at 7.35am on the morning of June 13 and was pronounced dead at 8.35am.

'Corrective Services NSW and NSW Police are investigating the incident,' a spokeswoman said.

'All deaths in custody are subject to a coronial inquest.'

Cureton could be heard screaming his wife's name during dramatic police footage of his arrest.

Adam Cureton was arrested at a Maroubra home on October 15, a day after his wife died at a western Sydney home. Pictured is his dramatic arrest

The estranged father of Ms Hafiz had wept as he arrived at the scene.

'She was a good girl,' he told the Daily Telegraph.

Ms Hafiz's father said he had never met Cureton but understood the pair had been married for a few years.

Police said Ms Hafiz had been allegedly assaulted and they don't believe a weapon had been used.

Cureton was heard in police footage last year screaming his wife's name as he was put into a police van

Ms Hafiz had a StarNow.com listing in which she describes herself as an aspiring model and extra who was seeking work in the showbusiness industry.

'I'm trying to get experience in this field and if I do get paid, that's great too,' Ms Hafiz wrote.

'It's something I never thought about doing, but I do enjoy being spontaneous and trying new hobbies from time to time so yeah, really keen to do this.'

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone you know is affected by domestic violence, contact 1800RESPECT.
Good evening, my fellow Americans. I want to talk to you about where we are in the battle against COVID-19, the progress we've made, and the work we have left to do.

And it starts with understanding this: Even as the Delta variant 19 [sic] has -- COVID-19 - has been hitting this country hard, we have the tools to combat the virus, if we can come together as a country and use those tools.

If we raise our vaccination rate, protect ourselves and others with masking and expanded testing, and identify people who are infected, we can and we will turn the tide on COVID-19.

It will take a lot of hard work, and it's going to take some time. Many of us are frustrated with the nearly 80 million Americans who are still not vaccinated, even though the vaccine is safe, effective, and free.

You might be confused about what is true and what is false about COVID-19. So before I outline the new steps to fight COVID-19 that I'm going to be announcing tonight, let me give you some clear information about where we stand.

First, we have cons- -- we have made considerable progress

in battling COVID-19. When I became President, about 2 million Americans were fully vaccinated. Today, over 175 million Americans have that protection.

Before I took office, we hadn't ordered enough vaccine for every American. Just weeks in office, we did. The week before I took office, on January 20th of this year, over 25,000 Americans died that week from COVID-19. Last week, that grim weekly toll was down 70 percent.

And in the three months before I took office, our economy was faltering, creating just 50,000 jobs a month. We're now averaging 700,000 new jobs a month in the past three months.

This progress is real. But while America is in much better shape than it was seven months ago when I took office, I need to tell you a second fact.

We're in a tough stretch, and it could last for a while. The highly contagious Delta variant that I began to warn America about back in July spread in late summer like it did in other countries before us.

While the vaccines provide strong protections for the vaccinated, we read about, we hear about, and we see the stories of hospitalized people, people on their death beds, among the unvaccinated over these past few weeks.

This is a pandemic of the unvaccinated. And it's caused by the fact that despite America having an unprecedented and successful vaccination program, despite the fact that for almost five months free vaccines have been available in 80,000 different locations, we still have nearly 80 million Americans who have failed to get the shot.

And to make matters worse, there are elected officials actively working to undermine the fight against COVID-19. Instead of encouraging people to get vaccinated and mask up, they're ordering mobile morgues for the unvaccinated dying from COVID in their communities. This is totally unacceptable.

Third, if you wonder how all this adds up, here's the math: The vast majority of Americans are doing the right thing. Nearly three quarters of the eligible have gotten at least one shot, but one quarter has not gotten any. That's nearly 80 million Americans not vaccinated. And in a country as large as ours, that's 25 percent minority. That 25 percent can cause a lot of damage -- and they are.

The unvaccinated overcrowd our hospitals, are overrunning the emergency rooms and intensive care units, leaving no room for someone with a heart attack, or [pancreatitis], or cancer.

And fourth, I want to emphasize that the vaccines provide very strong protection from severe illness from COVID-19. I know there's a lot of confusion and misinformation. But the world's leading scientists confirm that if you are fully vaccinated, your risk of severe illness from COVID-19 is very low.

In fact, based on available data from the summer, only one of out of every 160,000 fully vaccinated Americans was hospitalized for COVID per day.

These are the facts.

So here's where we stand: The path ahead, even with the Delta variant, is not nearly as bad as last winter. But what makes it incredibly more frustrating is that we have the tools to combat COVID-19, and a distinct minority of Americans --supported by a distinct minority of elected officials -- are keeping us from turning the corner. These pandemic politics, as I refer to, are making people sick, causing unvaccinated people to die.

We cannot allow these actions to stand in the way of protecting the large majority of Americans who have done their part and want to get back to life as normal.

As your President, I'm announcing tonight a new plan to require more Americans to be vaccinated, to combat those blocking public health.

My plan also increases testing, protects our economy, and will make our kids safer in schools. It consists of six broad areas of action and many specific measures in each that -- and each of those actions that you can read more about at WhiteHouse.gov. WhiteHouse.gov.

The measures -- these are going to take time to have full impact. But if we implement them, I believe and the scientists indicate, that in the months ahead we can reduce the number of unvaccinated Americans, decrease hospitalizations and deaths, and allow our children to go to school safely and keep our economy strong by keeping businesses open.

First, we must increase vaccinations among the unvaccinated with new vaccination requirements. Of the nearly 80 million eligible Americans who have not gotten vaccinated, many said they were waiting for approval from the Food and Drug Administration -- the FDA. Well, last month, the FDA granted that approval.

So, the time for waiting is over. This summer, we made progress through the combination of vaccine requirements and incentives, as well as the FDA approval. Four million more people got their first shot in August than they did in July.

But we need to do more. This is not about freedom or personal choice. It's about protecting yourself and those around you -- the people you work with, the people you care about, the people you love.

My job as President is to protect all Americans.

So, tonight, I'm announcing that the Department of Labor is developing an emergency rule to require all employers with 100 or more employees, that together employ over 80 million workers, to ensure their workforces are fully vaccinated or show a negative test at least once a week.

Some of the biggest companies are already requiring this: United Airlines, Disney, Tysons Food, and even Fox News.

The bottom line: We're going to protect vaccinated workers from unvaccinated co-workers. We're going to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by increasing the share of the workforce that is vaccinated in businesses all across America.

My plan will extend the vaccination requirements that I previously issued in the healthcare field. Already, I've announced, we'll be requiring vaccinations that all nursing home workers who treat patients on Medicare and Medicaid, because I have that federal authority.

Tonight, I'm using that same authority to expand that to cover those who work in hospitals, home healthcare facilities, or other medical facilities - a total of 17 million healthcare workers.

If you're seeking care at a health facility, you should be able to know that the people treating you are vaccinated. Simple. Straightforward. Period.

Next, I will sign an executive order that will now require all executive branch federal employees to be vaccinated -- all. And I've signed another executive order that will require federal contractors to do the same.

If you want to work with the federal government and do business with us, get vaccinated. If you want to do business with the federal government, vaccinate your workforce.

And tonight, I'm removing one of the last remaining obstacles that make it difficult for you to get vaccinated.

The Department of Labor will require employers with 100 or more workers to give those workers paid time off to get vaccinated. No one should lose pay in order to get vaccinated or take a loved one to get vaccinated.

Today, in total, the vaccine requirements in my plan will affect about 100 million Americans - two thirds of all workers.

And for other sectors, I issue this appeal: To those of you running large entertainment venues -- from sports arenas to concert venues to movie theaters -- please require folks to get vaccinated or show a negative test as a condition of entry.

And to the nation's family physicians, pediatricians, GPs -- general practitioners - you're the most trusted medical voice to your patients. You may be the one person who can get someone to change their mind about being vaccinated.

Tonight, I'm asking each of you to reach out to your unvaccinated patients over the next two weeks and make a personal appeal to them to get the shot. America needs your personal involvement in this critical effort.

And my message to unvaccinated Americans is this: What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see? We've made vaccinations free, safe, and convenient.

The vaccine has FDA approval. Over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot.

We've been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing. But just don't take it from me; listen to the voices of unvaccinated Americans who are lying in hospital beds, taking their final breaths, saying, 'If only I had gotten vaccinated.' 'If only.'

It's a tragedy. Please don't let it become yours.

The second piece of my plan is continuing to protect the vaccinated.

For the vast majority of you who have gotten vaccinated, I understand your anger at those who haven't gotten vaccinated. I understand the anxiety about getting a 'breakthrough' case.

But as the science makes clear, if you're fully vaccinated, you're highly protected from severe illness, even if you get COVID-19.

In fact, recent data indicates there is only one confirmed positive case per 5,000 fully vaccinated Americans per day.

You're as safe as possible, and we're doing everything we can to keep it that way -- keep it that way, keep you safe.

That's where boosters come in -- the shots that give you even more protection than after your second shot.

Now, I know there's been some confusion about boosters. So, let me be clear: Last month, our top government doctors announced an initial plan for booster shots for vaccinated Americans. They believe that a booster is likely to provide the highest level of protection yet.

Of course, the decision of which booster shots to give, when to start them, and who will give them, will be left completely to the scientists at the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control.

But while we wait, we've done our part. We've bought enough boosters -- enough booster shots -- and the distribution system is ready to administer them.

As soon as they are authorized, those eligible will be able to get a booster right away in tens of thousands of site across the -- sites across the country for most Americans, at your nearby drug store, and for free.

The third piece of my plan is keeping -- and maybe the most important -- is keeping our children safe and our schools open. For any parent, it doesn't matter how low the risk of any illness or accident is when it comes to your child or grandchild. Trust me, I know.

So, let me speak to you directly. Let me speak to you directly to help ease some of your worries.

It comes down to two separate categories: children ages 12 and older who are eligible for a vaccine now, and children ages 11 and under who are not are yet eligible.

The safest thing for your child 12 and older is to get them vaccinated. They get vaccinated for a lot of things. That's it. Get them vaccinated.

As with adults, almost all the serious COVID-19 cases we're seeing among adolescents are in unvaccinated 12- to 17-year-olds -- an age group that lags behind in vaccination rates.

So, parents, please get your teenager vaccinated.

What about children under the age of 12 who can't get vaccinated yet? Well, the best way for a parent to protect their child under the age of 12 starts at home. Every parent, every teen sibling, every caregiver around them should be vaccinated.

Children have four times higher chance of getting hospitalized if they live in a state with low vaccination rates rather than the states with high vaccination rates.

Now, if you're a parent of a young child, you're wondering when will it be -- when will it be -- the vaccine available for them. I strongly support an independent scientific review for vaccine uses for children under 12. We can't take shortcuts with that scientific work.

But I've made it clear I will do everything within my power to support the FDA with any resource it needs to continue to do this as safely and as quickly as possible, and our nation's top doctors are committed to keeping the public at large updated on the process so parents can plan.

Now to the schools. We know that if schools follow the science and implement the safety measures -- like testing, masking, adequate ventilation systems that we provided the money for, social distancing, and vaccinations -- then children can be safe from COVID-19 in schools.

Today, about 90 percent of school staff and teachers are vaccinated. We should get that to 100 percent. My administration has already acquired teachers at the schools run by the Defense Department -- because I have the authority as President in the federal system -- the Defense Department and the Interior Department -- to get vaccinated. That's authority I possess.

Tonight, I'm announcing that we'll require all of nearly 300,000 educators in the federal paid program, Head Start program, must be vaccinated as well to protect your youngest -- our youngest -- most precious Americans and give parents the comfort.

And tonight, I'm calling on all governors to require vaccination for all teachers and staff. Some already have done so, but we need more to step up.

Vaccination requirements in schools are nothing new. They work. They're overwhelmingly supported by educators and their unions. And to all school officials trying to do the right thing by our children: I'll always be on your side.

Let me be blunt. My plan also takes on elected officials and states that are undermining you and these lifesaving actions. Right now, local school officials are trying to keep children safe in a pandemic while their governor picks a fight with them and even threatens their salaries or their jobs. Talk about bullying in schools. If they'll not help -- if these governors won't help us beat the pandemic, I'll use my power as President to get them out of the way.

The Department of Education has already begun to take legal action against states undermining protection that local school officials have ordered. Any teacher or school official whose pay is withheld for doing the right thing, we will have that pay restored by the federal government 100 percent. I promise you I will have your back.

The fourth piece of my plan is increasing testing and masking. From the start, America has failed to do enough COVID-19 testing. In order to better detect and control the Delta variant, I'm taking steps tonight to make testing more available, more affordable, and more convenient. I'll use the Defense Production Act to increase production of rapid tests, including those that you can use at home.

While that production is ramping up, my administration has worked with top retailers, like Walmart, Amazon, and Kroger's, and tonight we're announcing that, no later than next week, each of these outlets will start to sell at-home rapid test kits at cost for the next three months. This is an immediate price reduction for at-home test kits for up to 35 percent reduction.

We'll also expand -- expand free testing at 10,000 pharmacies around the country. And we'll commit -- we're committing $2 billion to purchase nearly 300 million rapid tests for distribution to community health centers, food banks, schools, so that every American, no matter their income, can access free and convenient tests. This is important to everyone, particularly for a parent or a child -- with a child not old enough to be vaccinated. You'll be able to test them at home and test those around them.

In addition to testing, we know masking helps stop the spread of COVID-19. That's why when I came into office, I required masks for all federal buildings and on federal lands, on airlines, and other modes of transportation.

Today -- tonight, I'm announcing that the Transportation Safety Administration -- the TSA -- will double the fines on travelers that refuse to mask. If you break the rules, be prepared to pay.

And, by the way, show some respect. The anger you see on television toward flight attendants and others doing their job is wrong; it's ugly.

The fifth piece of my plan is protecting our economic recovery. Because of our vaccination program and the American Rescue Plan, which we passed early in my administration, we've had record job creation for a new administration, economic growth unmatched in 40 years. We cannot let unvaccinated do this progress -- undo it, turn it back.

So tonight, I'm announcing additional steps to strengthen our economic recovery. We'll be expanding COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs. That's a program that's going to allow small businesses to borrow up to $2 million from the current $500,000 to keep going if COVID-19 impacts on their sales.

These low-interest, long-term loans require no repayment for two years and be can used to hire and retain workers, purchase inventory, or even pay down higher cost debt racked up since the pandemic began. I'll also be taking additional steps to help small businesses stay afloat during the pandemic.

Sixth, we're going to continue to improve the care of those who do get COVID-19. In early July, I announced the deployment of surge response teams. These are teams comprised of experts from the Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC, the Defense Department, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency -- FEMA -- to areas in the country that need help to stem the spread of COVID-19.

Since then, the federal government has deployed nearly 1,000 staff, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, into 18 states. Today, I'm announcing that the Defense Department will double the number of military health teams that they'll deploy to help their fellow Americans in hospitals around the country.

Additionally, we're increasing the availability of new medicines recommended by real doctors, not conspir- -- conspiracy theorists. The monoclonal antibody treatments have been shown to reduce the risk of hospitalization by up to 70 percent for unvaccinated people at risk of developing sefe- -- severe disease.

We've already distributed 1.4 million courses of these treatments to save lives and reduce the strain on hospitals. Tonight, I'm announcing we will increase the average pace of shipment across the country of free monoclonal antibody treatments by another 50 percent.

Before I close, let me say this: Communities of color are disproportionately impacted by this virus. And as we continue to battle COVID-19, we will ensure that equity continues to be at the center of our response. We'll ensure that everyone is reached. My first responsibility as President is to protect the American people and make sure we have enough vaccine for every American, including enough boosters for every American who's approved to get one.

We also know this virus transcends borders. That's why, even as we execute this plan at home, we need to continue fighting the virus overseas, continue to be the arsenal of vaccines.

We're proud to have donated nearly 140 million vaccines over 90 countries, more than all other countries combined, including Europe, China, and Russia combined. That's American leadership on a global stage, and that's just the beginning.

We've also now started to ship another 500 million COVID vaccines -- Pfizer vaccines -- purchased to donate to 100 lower-income countries in need of vaccines. And I'll be announcing additional steps to help the rest of the world later this month.

As I recently released the key parts of my pandemic preparedness plan so that America isn't caught flat-footed when a new pandemic comes again -- as it will -- next month, I'm also going to release the plan in greater detail.

So let me close with this: We have so- -- we've made so much progress during the past seven months of this pandemic. The recent increases in vaccinations in August already are having an impact in some states where case counts are dropping in recent days. Even so, we remain at a critical moment, a critical time. We have the tools. Now we just have to finish the job with truth, with science, with confidence, and together as one nation.

Look, we're the United States of America. There's nothing -- not a single thing -- we're unable to do if we do it together. So let's stay together.

God bless you all and all those who continue to serve on the frontlines of this pandemic. And may God protect our troops.

Get vaccinated.
Gordon Ramsays company plunged to a 5.1 million loss last year because of Covid lockdowns.

The celebrity chefs restaurants were forced to close their doors for months on end, as well as facing social distancing restrictions.

Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, which he launched in 1997, has 25 sites in the UK and another 11 restaurants worldwide in locations such as Las Vegas and Versailles.

Gordon Ramsays company plunged to a 5.1 million loss last year because of Covid lockdowns. He is pictured above with daughter Megan

The group racked up the bruising loss on turnover of 34.5 million in the year to August 2020, according to Companies House. It had made a profit of 6.6 million the previous year on revenues of 55 million.

Earlier this year, Ramsay, 54, revealed he expects the fall in sales at his restaurants during the pandemic to reach nearly 60 million.

He said: The last 12 months have been the most difficult of my 28-year career. Every business has let go of staff, every business has had to tighten their belts to get through this. Its more than emotion, its my life.

The group racked up the bruising loss on turnover of 34.5 million in the year to August 2020, according to Companies House

But the group said it was still intent on expanding and had opened 12 new restaurants since lockdowns lifted in April.

A spokesman said the company has not allowed the pandemic to derail its ambitious growth strategy at home and abroad.

Ramsay is due to launch The River Restaurant at Londons Savoy Hotel this month.
Paul Gambaccini said yesterday he is 'coming for the BBC' over its alleged complicity in the child sex abuse 'witch hunt'.

In an explosive interview with the corporation's Victoria Derbyshire, Mr Gambaccini, who presents BBC Radio 2's Pick of the Pops, accused his employer of being 'on the side of the wrongdoers' in its reporting of alleged VIP abuse cases.

He even offered to go 'head-to-head' with the BBC's outgoing news chief Fran Unsworth in a public debate, in which he said he would 'dissect her like a frog'.

Paul Gambaccini (pictured) said yesterday he is 'coming for the BBC' over its alleged complicity in the child sex abuse 'witch hunt'

Mr Gambaccini, 72, interviewed on BBC News yesterday, was arrested over false sex abuse allegations in 2013 and spent a year on bail before the case was dropped by Operation Yewtree detectives working under Miss Dick, then a Scotland Yard assistant commissioner.

He later received a 250,000 out-of-court settlement from the Metropolitan Police for privacy breaches.

Speaking to Miss Derbyshire, Mr Gambaccini criticised the BBC for its interviews with the fantasist 'Nick', who accused a string of VIPs of involvement in a murderous paedophile ring.

He said 'Nick'  aka Carl Beech  had been given 'free reign' on the BBC's Six O'Clock News, and also hit out at the corporation's coverage of a police raid on Sir Cliff Richard's home in 2014.

Mr Gambaccini (pictured in 1995), who presents BBC Radio 2's Pick of the Pops, accused his employer of being 'on the side of the wrongdoers' in its reporting of alleged VIP abuse cases

Of the alleged targeting of celebrities in Yewtree and other operations, he said: 'All throughout the witch-hunt the BBC was on the side of the wrongdoers.

'We haven't come for the BBC yet but don't think we are going to go away.

'In the years to come, boy, the truth about the BBC's complicity in the witch-hunt will be known.'

On BBC director of news Miss Unsworth, who has announced she was leaving the corporation, he added: 'Fran Unsworth has taken life's last leap and a good thing too because she was on the wrong side with the Cliff Richard thing.

'I will go head to head with Fran Unsworth in any public forum and I will dissect her like a frog, without ether.'
President Biden laid down a stark challenge to Republican governors he accused of playing 'pandemic politics' on Thursday: Help America beat COVID-19 or reckon with the power of the federal government.

Unveiling policies that will require most federal employees to get vaccinated, Biden took angry aim at those getting in the way of mask mandates and vaccine plans.

'What makes it incredibly more frustrating is we have the tools to combat COVID-19 and a distinct minority of Americans supported by a distinct minority of elected officials are keeping us from turning the corner,' he said at the White House.

'These pandemic politics are making people sick, causing unvaccinated people to die.'

The pointed remarks and the new raft of policies represent Biden's most aggressive steps yet to end the pandemic amid surging cases of COVID-19, triggered by the fast-spreading Delta variant and a reservoir of millions of unvaccinated people.

'If these governors won't help us beat the pandemic, I'll use my powers as president to get them out of the way,' said President Biden as he attacked people getting in the way of public health measures during a speech at the White House on Thursday

A day earlier Florida Governor Ron DeSantis launched an emergency appeal to keep his ban on school mask mandates after a judge overturned his executive order for the second time

Public health measures to protect children have triggered a partisan response with some parents making a libertarian argument that school mask mandates are an attack on choice

There are about 150,000 new infections every day, on a par with the situation before vaccinations were widely available

So far only 53% of Americans are fully vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Those statistics have come at a cost to Biden, who has seen his approval rating fall as his hopes of ending masking restrictions and travel restrictions have been dashed so far.f

Republican governors, such as Ron DeSantis in Florida, have reveled in pushing back on public health measures. He has insisted parents must have the right to decide whether children should wear masks and threatened to dock the pay of school leaders who implement mask mandates for students.

Biden did not mention DeSantis by name. He did not have to.

'Vaccination requirements in schools are nothing new. They work, they're overwhelmingly supported by educators and the unions,' he said.

'And to all school officials trying to do the right thing by our children, I'll always be on your side.

'Let me be blunt. My plan also takes on elected officials and states that are undermining you and these life saving actions.

'Right now, local school officials are trying to keep children safe in a pandemic, while their governor picks a fight with them, and even threatens their salaries or their jobs.

'Talk about bullying in schools.

'If these governors won't help us beat the pandemic, I'll use my powers as president to get them out of the way.'

Florida is one of several states where Republican governors have sought to prevent local governments and school districts from mandating masks

Republicans were quick to condemn Biden's latest push to halt the pandemic

The Department of Education has already launched a civil rights investigation into states that have tried to ban mask mandates - on the grounds that it might prevent disabled children from getting a proper education.

And Biden promised that school officials who lost pay because they were trying to implement public health measures would have their salary restored by the federal government.

'I promise you I will have your back,' he told them.

A day earlier, DeSantis launched an emergency appeal to keep his ban on school mask mandates after a judge overturned his executive order for the second time.

On Thursday, he hit out at Biden's new mandates and raised the specter of more legal tussles.

'Forcing this and coercing people, I don't think is the right decision,' he said at a press conference.

'I'd imagine that you're gonna see a lot of activity in the courts if they try to do that through an executive action3.'

The plans for a new push come as the Delta variant sweeps through states with low vaccination rates.

There are about 150,000 new infections every day, on a par with the situation before vaccinations were widely available.

But Biden's comments triggered a predictably partisan response.

'President Biden continues to undermine confidence in safe and effective vaccines,' said Cathy McMorris Rodgers, the senior Republican on the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

'He is using fear, control, and mandates.'
Six people, including a child, were injured after being shot by three suspects who then crashed their car into a train while making a getaway in St Louis on Thursday evening, and police are currently on a manhunt to find them.

All six were taken to hospital after the shooting on Martin Luther King Drive in East St Louis, Illinois, as of Thursday night, according to local station KSDK.

The shooting victims included a man and a woman and child, but police did not immediately release an exact number of victims, the Belleville News-Democrat reported.

East St. Louis Police Chief Kendall Perry confirmed 'multiple people' were shot.

The three suspects then tried to flee the scene in their vehicle, a blue SUV, but were struck by a passing train as they attempted to cross the train tracks. All three then fled on foot.

Meanwhile, police say they are currently searching for the three suspects in a wooded area near 5th and Missouri, KMOV reports.

Six people, including a child, were injured after three suspects opened fire from a moving car, which then crashed into a MetroLink train before the suspects fled the scene on foot

Authorities are on a manhunt for the three suspects who police say shot at least six people in East St Louis Thursday evening

As of Thursday evening, it is unclear as to the condition of the victims

Authorities said around 10 passengers who were aboard the train sustained injuries during the collision.

An investigation into the incident is ongoing, according to police.

The condition and identities of the victims remains unclear.

No arrests have been made as of Thursday night as authorities continue their search for the three suspects.

Several hours after the shooting, SWAT members and police officers had targeted a nearby home as of 7:30pm as law enforcement utilized a drone, plane and helicopter in search of the suspects, KSDK reports.

Several hours after the shooting, SWAT and police officers had targeted a nearby home as of 7:30pm as law enforcement utilized a drone, plane and helicopter in search of the suspects

A damaged SUV sits guarded by a St. Clair County Sheriff officer on Sixth Street near the 5th and Missouri MetroLink station during a manhunt that followed a shooting in East St. Louis

The shooting happened after 4 p.m., Illinois State Police said in a news release.

The public was asked to avoid the area of the shooting, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

MetroLink was warning of delays of an hour or more in that area after the train crash temporarily disrupted services on the track.

Passengers were being transported by bus shuttles around the two affected stations, said Patti Beck, a communications official with Bi-State Development, which operates MetroLink.

The crime scene partitioned off with yellow caution tape after three suspects crashed their car into a passing train after opening fire and injuring at least six people in East St Louis

No further information was immediately available.

Passengers experienced delays up to an hour after the mass shooting, as shuttle buses take over the disrupted train stops.

The shooting occurred outside the East Side Meat Market, Perry said.

Illinois State Police said Thursday night the scene was 'still active.'

St. Louis Police urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Ministers today tried to quell Tory panic as a poll showed support slumping amid the massive 12billion national insurance raid.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden insisted voters will eventually 'reward' the government for making tough choices despite YouGov finding a five-point drop in backing for the Conservatives.

The 33 per cent support is the lowest level since the election in 2019, and worryingly for No10 nearly two-thirds said they do not believe keeping taxes low is a priority for Boris Johnson of his party.

Labour was in the lead for the first time since January with 35 per cent - although in a more optimistic sign for the Tories Keir Starmer only managed to soak up one extra point.

In a round of interviews this morning, Mr Dowden tried to shrug off the setback, in research for the Times, saying the government is 'taking the long-term decisions in the national interest'.

'I think when you come to the next general election, which is some time away, people will weigh that up,' he said.

'And what they will see as a result of this is, because we have put the extra money into the NHS, we have avoided a crisis in the NHS, we have increased capacity in the NHS and we have finally, after many governments previously ducked this challenge of social care  I remember 10, 15 years ago we were talking about this  finally the Prime Minister has actually done something about this.

'And I think, in the end, the electorate reward governments who are willing to take difficult decisions in order to protect the long-term national interest, and that is what that decision is all about.'

Conservative support plummeted five points to 33 per cent while Labour's share increased by one point to 35 per cent, putting Sir Keir Starmer's party ahead of the Tories for the first time since January

Backing for the Tories among voters has fallen to its lowest level since the 2019 General Election while support for Sir Keir Starmer's Labour rose after MPs lined up to support Boris Johnson's manifesto-busting 12billion tax raid, according to a YouGov poll

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden insisted voters will eventually 'reward' the government for taking tough decisions

Mr Johnson's dramatic move to bail out the NHS and overhaul social care with an eye-watering hike in national insurance sailed through the Commons by 319 to 248. Threats of a major Conservative revolt melted away after Downing Street hinted at a reshuffle and made some minor tweaks to the policy

Six in ten voters said they did not believe Mr Johnson or the Conservatives cared about keeping taxes low compared with around two in ten who believed that they do care.

The poll also found that more than three-quarters of all Tory voters believe the party does not support low taxation, while one per cent voters think the plans to fund an overhaul of social care will leave them better off.

The YouGov survey suggests the Government's plans to hike National Insurance and increase dividend taxes, intended to plug a funding shortfall in the NHS and properly finance social care, has backfired among voters.

Anthony Wells, political research director at YouGov, said: 'It looks as if the Government may have sacrificed their reputation for low taxes amongst Tory voters without actually getting much credit for helping the NHS.'

One Tory MP for a 'Red Wall' seat told MailOnline they were not currently detecting a huge backlash from voters about the tax raid - and pointed to Labour's failure to pick up the support shed by the Tories in the poll.

However, they added grimly: 'The idea that people always think the NHS should have more money and nurses should have pay rises is about to change now that people realise they have to pay for it.'

Tories on the Right of the party had expressed fears that the Prime Minister's massive 12billion tax raid will simply be swallowed up after just five MPs rebelled against the plans.

Mr Johnson's dramatic move to bail out the NHS and overhaul social care with an eye-watering hike in national insurance sailed through the Commons by 319 to 248 on Wednesday.

Threats of a major Conservative revolt melted away after Downing Street hinted at a reshuffle and made some minor tweaks to the policy.

In the end only Esther McVey, John Redwood, Christopher Chope, Philip Davies and Neil Hudson opposed the government. Another 37 Tories did not vote, including a number of 'Red Wall' MPs who have been deeply concerned about the proposals.

The Government's working majority of more than 80 was barely trimmed to 71 even though Cabinet ministers and many MPs have been privately alarmed that Mr Johnson is abandoning a manifesto promise and taking the tax burden to record peacetime levels.
Nuclear fusion is a step closer to reality after scientists tested a magnet 12 times as powerful as those used for MRIs, with the hope of working reactors by the 2030s.

Unlike current nuclear fission technology, fusion replicates the process at the heart of stars, and produces clean, renewable power without the toxic waste.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) scientists, working with Bill Gates-backed Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS), developed the magnet.

It is the world's strongest high temperature superconducting magnet and was tested at the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

'This is not hype, this is reality,' Andrew Holland, Chief Executive Officer of the Fusion Industry Association, told CNBC.

The test is significant because it produced a strong magnetic field required for the fusion process, while consuming just 30 watts of power.

When the MIT team use these magnets to build the first fusion machine, known as a tokamak, it is expected to generate more power than it uses to start and run.

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Collaborative team working on the magnet inside the test stand housed at MIT. Research, construction and testing of this magnet has been the single largest activity for the SPARC team, which has grown to include 270 members

Rendering of SPARC, a compact, high-field, tokamak, currently under design by a team from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Commonwealth Fusion Systems. Its mission is to create and confine a plasma that produces net fusion energy

How it works: This graphic shows the inside of a nuclear fusion reactor and explains the process by which power is produced. At its heart is the tokamak, a device that uses a powerful magnetic field to confine the hydrogen isotopes into a spherical shape, similar to a cored apple, as they are heated by microwaves into a plasma to produce fusion

HOW DOES FUSION POWER WORK? A small amount of deuterium and tritium (hydrogen) gas is injected into a large, donut-shaped vacuum chamber, called a tokamak. The hydrogen is heated until it becomes an ionized plasma, which looks like a cloud. Giant superconducting magnets, integrated with the tokamak, confine and shape the ionized plasma, keeping it away from the metal walls. When the hydrogen plasma reaches 150 million degrees Celsius - ten times hotter than the core of the Sun - fusion occurs. In the fusion reaction, a tiny amount of mass is converted to a huge amount of energy (E=mc2). Ultra-high-energy neutrons, produced by fusion, escape the magnetic field and hit the metal tokamak chamber walls, transmitting their energy to the walls as heat. Some neutrons react with lithium in the metal walls, creating more tritium fuel for fusion. Water circulating in the tokamak walls receives the heat and is converted to steam. In a commercial reactor, this steam will drive turbines to produce electricity. Hundreds of tokamaks have been built, but ITER will be the first to achieve a 'burning' or largely self-heating plasma. Advertisement

During the test, the magnet at MIT reached 20 tesla - a unit of measurement showing the magnet's strength - and named for the engineer Nikola Tesla.

It did so while consuming just 30 watts of energy, orders of magnitude less than the copper-based magnet previously tested by MIT, which used 200 million watts.

This reduction in energy use is significant, as it means when they use the magnets to build the tokamak it will achieve 'net energy' - the point where it takes less energy to initiate and sustain a reaction that it produces - making this test a significant milestone in an effort to create a 'sun on Earth' and provide cleaner, safer and renewable power, MIT said.

Magnets are a core component of the donut-shaped tokamak, as they hold in place the ball of plasma and energy as deuterium and tritium are fused into helium.

There is a race to create viable fusion energy, with ITER, an international nuclear fusion research and engineering megaproject, about 75 per cent of the way there.

ITER hopes to achieve net energy by 2026, after completing all the magnets for their tokamak - although the ITER project won't sell energy, rather offer a blueprint for future fusion reactor designs to be used in any participating country.

However, the MIT team has managed to create a magnet that produces a magnetic field twice that of ITER's with a magnet about 40 times smaller.

The scientists from MIT and Commonwealth Fusion Systems said they may have a device ready for everyday use in the early 2030s.

'This was designed to be commercial,' said MIT Vice President Maria Zuber, a prominent physicist.

'This was not designed to be a science experiment.'

Unlike existing fission reactors that produce radioactive waste and sometimes catastrophic meltdowns, proponents of fusion say it offers a clean and virtually limitless supply of energy.

Director of the PSFC Dennis Whyte (L) and CEO of CFS Bob Mumgaard (R) in the test hall at MITs Plasma Science and Fusion Center

A team of engineers and scientists from CFS and MITs PSFC lower the superconducting magnet into the test stand in which the magnet was cooled and powered to produce a magnetic field of 20 tesla

If, that is, scientists and engineers can figure out how to harness it - they have been working on the problem for nearly a century.

Rather than splitting atoms, fusion mimics a process that occurs naturally in stars to meld two hydrogen atoms together.

In this case they use deuterium and tritium, and produce a helium atom - as well as a whole load of energy.

Achieving fusion requires unimaginable amounts of heat and pressure. One approach to achieving that is to turn the hydrogen into an electrically charged gas, or plasma, which is then controlled in a donut-shaped vacuum chamber.

This large-bore, full-scale high-temperature superconducting magnet designed and built by Commonwealth Fusion Systems and MITs Plasma Science and Fusion Center (PSFC) has demonstrated a record-breaking 20 tesla magnetic field

Fusion power works by colliding heavy hydrogen atoms to form helium  releasing vast amounts of energy in the process, as occurs naturally in the centre of stars

HOW IT WORKS: THE SUN IN A BOTTLE Nuclear fusion is the process that powers stars - two small atoms merge to form a larger one and release large amounts of energy in the process. But the process requires temperatures far beyond what any solid material could withstand - 100,000,000 degrees Celsius (180,000,032F). To capture the suns power source here on Earth, whats needed is a way of capturing and containing something that hot by suspending it in a way that prevents it from coming into contact with anything solid. That requires intense magnetic fields, forming a type of 'invisible bottle' that contain the 'hot swirling soup of protons and electrons, called a plasma,' according to MIT scientists. Because the particles have an electric charge, they are strongly controlled by the magnetic fields, and the most widely used configuration for containing them is a donut-shaped device called a tokamak. Most of these devices have produced their magnetic fields using conventional electromagnets made of copper, but the latest and largest version under construction in France, called ITER, uses what are known as low-temperature superconductors. The major innovation in the MIT-CFS fusion design is the use of high-temperature superconductors, which enable a much stronger magnetic field in a smaller space. This design was made possible by a new kind of superconducting material that became commercially available a few years ago. Until now, the only way to achieve the colossally powerful magnetic fields needed to create a magnetic bottle capable of containing plasma heated up to hundreds of millions of degrees was to make them larger and larger. But the new high-temperature superconductor material, made in the form of a flat, ribbon-like tape, makes it possible to achieve a higher magnetic field in a smaller device, equaling the performance that would be achieved in an apparatus 40 times larger in volume using conventional low-temperature superconducting magnets. The use of the new high-temperature superconducting magnets makes it possible to apply decades of experimental knowledge gained from the operation of tokamak experiments, including MITs own Alcator series. A series of scientific papers published last year outlined the physical basis and, by simulation, confirmed the viability of the new fusion device. The papers showed that, if the magnets worked as expected, the whole fusion system should indeed produce net power output, for the first time in decades of fusion research. Advertisement

This is done with the help of powerful superconducting magnets such as the 'central solenoid' that General Atomics began shipping from San Diego to France this summer for the ITER project, or the ones tested by MIT.

'Fusion in a lot of ways is the ultimate clean energy source,' said Prof Zuber, adding that 'the amount of power that is available is really game-changing.

'The fuel used to create fusion energy comes from water, and 'the Earth is full of water  it's a nearly unlimited resource. We just have to figure out how to utilise it.'

Developing the new magnet is seen as the greatest technological hurdle to making that happen, as it is a key requirement in reducing the energy consumption of the generator itself and achieving net energy production.

With the magnet technology now successfully demonstrated, the MIT-CFS collaboration is on track to build the world's first fusion device that can create and confine a plasma that produces more energy than it consumes.

That demonstration device, called SPARC, is targeted for completion in 2025.

'The challenges of making fusion happen are both technical and scientific,' says Dennis Whyte, director of MIT's Plasma Science and Fusion Center, which is working with CFS to develop SPARC.

But once the technology is proven, he says, 'it's an inexhaustible, carbon-free source of energy that you can deploy anywhere and at any time. It's really a fundamentally new energy source.'

To capture the sun's power source here on Earth, what's needed is a way of capturing and containing something that hot  100,000,000 degrees or more  by suspending it in a way that prevents it from coming into contact with anything solid.

MIT says the way to do this is through intense magnetic fields, forming an 'invisible bottle' that contains the 'hot swirling soup of protons and electrons called plasma'.

The most widely used device for controlling this soup is a tokamak, and most have produced their magnetic fields using electromagnets made of copper.

The major innovation in the MIT-CFS fusion design is the use of high-temperature superconductors, which enable a much stronger magnetic field in a smaller space.

This design was made possible by a new kind of superconducting material that became commercially available a few years ago.

Until now, the only way to achieve the colossally powerful magnetic fields needed to create a magnetic 'bottle' capable of containing plasma heated up to hundreds of millions of degrees was to make them larger and larger.

But the new high-temperature superconductor material, made in the form of a flat, ribbon-like tape, makes it possible to achieve a higher magnetic field in a smaller device.

It equals the performance that would be achieved in an apparatus 40 times larger in volume using conventional low-temperature superconducting magnets.

Collaborative team working on the magnet inside the test stand housed at MIT

WHAT IS THE INTERNATIONAL THERMONUCLEAR EXPERIMENTAL REACTOR (ITER)? Know as ITER, the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor aims to use a strong electric current to trap plasma inside a doughnut-shaped enclosure long enough for fusion to take place. The design, known as a tokamak, was conceived by Soviet physicists in the 1950s but it's proving tough to build and could be even tougher to operate. Construction of the reactor in southern France has been dogged by delays and a surge in costs to about 20 billion (17bn / $23.7 bn). ITER is the most complex science project in human history. Hydrogen plasma will be heated to 150 million degrees Celsius, ten times hotter than the core of the Sun, to enable the fusion reaction. The process happens in a donut-shaped reactor, called a tokamak 1, which is surrounded by giant magnets that confine and circulate the superheated, ionized plasma, away from the metal walls. The superconducting magnets must be cooled to -269C (-398F), as cold as interstellar space. The ITER team claim a technique for building launcher and satellite components has turned out to be the best way for constructing rings to support the powerful magnetic coils inside the machine. Advertisement

The use of the new high-temperature superconducting magnets makes it possible to apply decades of experimental knowledge gained from the operation of tokamak experiments, including MIT's own Alcator series.

The new approach uses a well-known design but scales everything down to about half the linear size and still achieves the same operational conditions because of the higher magnetic field.

'It's a big moment,' says Bob Mumgaard, CEO of CFS. 'We now have a platform that is both scientifically very well-advanced, because of the decades of research on these machines, and also commercially very interesting.

'What it does is allow us to build devices faster, smaller, and at less cost,' he says of the successful magnet demonstration.

The next step will be building SPARC, a smaller-scale version of the planned ARC power plant - a working prototype fusion reactor.

The successful operation of SPARC will demonstrate that a full-scale commercial fusion power plant is practical, clearing the way for rapid design and construction of that pioneering device can then proceed full speed.

Someday in a hoped-for future, when there may be thousands of fusion plants powering clean electric grids around the world, Zuber said.

'I think we're going to look back and think about how we got there, and I think the demonstration of the magnet technology, for me, is the time when I believed that, wow, we can really do this.'

The successful creation of a power-producing fusion device would be a tremendous scientific achievement, Zuber notes. But that's not the main point. 'None of us are trying to win trophies at this point. We're trying to keep the planet livable.'

Betting on nuclear energy is still the world's best chance drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050, said Frederick Bordry, who oversaw the design and construction the Large Hadron Collider at CERN.

'When we speak about the cost of ITER, it's peanuts in comparison with the impact of climate change,' he said. 'We will have to have the money for it.'
Three has become the latest of the 'big three' UK telco network providers to bring back roaming fees when travelling abroad, in a fresh post-Brexit blow for consumers.

From May 23 next year, customers who have taken out a new contract or upgraded with Three from October 1 will pay a charge of 2 per day when roaming in the EU.

As well as this 2 fee for countries in the EU, countries outside the EU that were previously free to roam with Three will now incur a 5 daily fee (although the Republic of Ireland and Isle of Man will be exempt).

The 'surprising' decision will come as a bombshell to thousands of Brits who are planning their first trips aboard for more than a year.

Three joins EE and Vodafone, who both announced the return of charges earlier this summer, while O2 has clung on with a fair use roaming limit.

Three has become the latest mobile network to reintroduce roaming fees when travelling abroad, in a fresh post-Brexit blow for consumers

WHAT IS FREE ROAMING? Roaming is the word used to describe using your phone while you're overseas. You're 'roaming' the moment your phone is detected on an overseas network Before Brexit, EU roaming regulations meant you could use your monthly allowances of calls, data and texts while you were in 28 destinations in the EU for no extra charge. Since the UK is now no longer part of the EU, these roaming regulations don't apply to Brits, so now you'll get roaming charges added to your bill if you use your phone abroad, depending on your telco provider. Source: Uswitch Advertisement

Last December, all four providers had said they would not start charging UK customers to use mobile data in Europe in 2021.

The move is a particular loss for Three customers because it not only offered free roaming across Europe but also other worldwide destinations such as the US and Australia long before EU rules began.

Prior to Brexit, EU roaming regulations meant Brits could use their monthly allowances of calls, data and texts while in 28 EU countries for no extra charge.

Three announced the decision to introduce the charges to its 'Go Roam' free roaming service in a brief blog post on its website.

'We know that Go Roam has always been important to our customers and we had hoped to retain this benefit, but unfortunately there are now too many unknowns, which has made it commercially unviable for us to continue,' the statement says.

'This includes variations to the underlying cost of roaming, meaning we now have no visibility over the maximum amount it will cost us to provide a service for our customers to use their phone while abroad.'

The telco blamed underlying wholesale costs and disrupted travel due to the pandemic, making it no longer a commercially viable offer.

'Pay as you go customers and customers who have taken out a contract before 1 October 2021 are unaffected by these changes,' a spokeswoman said.

'The new charge ensures that customers are clear on what they will pay when using their phone in another country and only those who roam will pay for the service.

'It will also ensure that we can continue investing in our UK network.'

From May 23 next year, customers who have taken out a new contract or upgraded with Three from October 1 will pay a charge of 2 per day when roaming in the EU

Roaming fees across the union were banned by the EU in June 2017, allowing consumers to continue using their mobile plan at no additional cost, with a fair use limit.

Under the UK's Brexit trade agreement, it said both sides should 'co-operate on promoting transparent and reasonable rates' for mobile charges but a guarantee on free roaming was not carried forward.

Although network providers could choose to bring back charges once the UK had left the EU, the main four  EE, O2, Three and Vodafone  initially said they had no plans to do so, before backtracking on their statement.

Ernest Doku, mobiles expert at Uswitch.com, said the decision was 'surprising' given Three's 'generous roaming allowances'.

'If you're an existing Three customer, these charges shouldn't affect you immediately, but make sure you check the small print if you're due an upgrade in the coming months,' Doku said.

The decision will come as a bombshell to thousands of Brits who are planning their first trips aboard for more than a year

'When it comes to travelling, don't leave it until the last minute to check the roaming charges for your destination, and use hotel and cafe Wi-Fi when on holiday where possible, but make sure any public access points are safe and secure before logging on.'

In June, O2 implemented a 'fair use' charge of 3.50 if customers use more than 25GB of data in a month  so it does offer free roaming to an extent.

But the same can't be said about the other 'big four' telcos  EE, Vodafone and, now, Three.

MailOnline contacted O2 to ask whether it plans to completely ditch free roaming in the EU any time soon. An O2 spokesperson said there was 'no change in our current position'.

A day after O2's fair use charge was announced in June, EE revealed it was ending free roaming, despite previously saying it had no plans to do so post-Brexit.

BT-owned EE said the move was designed to 'support investment into our UK-based customer service and leading UK network'.

In August, Vodafone followed suit, meaning consumers are facing fees of 2-a-day to use their monthly allowance in Europe.
Facebook has been accused of discrimination after job adverts for male-dominated roles such as pilots and mechanics were found to be targeted at men on its platform.

Campaign group Global Witness said one of the platform's algorithms, designed to show vacancies to the most interested candidates, was favouring a certain gender based on stereotypes about the profession.

For example, 96 per cent of people who viewed an advert for a mechanic were men, while 95 per cent of those who saw a nursery nurse posting were women.

Adverts for psychologists were also far more likely to be shown to women but pilot jobs were mainly targeted at men.

Facebook said it was reviewing the findings and is preparing to update its job advert system within weeks.

In the UK, around 99 per cent of mechanics and 91 cent of pilots are estimated to be male, according to research by the independent careers website Careersmart.

Around 97 per cent of nursery nurses and 87 per cent of psychologists are women.

Facebook has been accused of discrimination after job adverts for male-dominated roles such as pilots and mechanics (pictured) were found to be targeted at men on its platform

Key findings Global Witness revealed that: 96% of the people shown the ad for mechanic jobs were men

95% of those shown the ad for nursery nurse jobs were women

75% of those shown the ad for pilot jobs were men

77% of those shown the ad for psychologist jobs were women Advertisement

However, London-based Global Witness claims Facebook may have breached discrimination laws and has filed complaints with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and Information Commissioner.

This is the first time UK authorities have been alerted to problems with the social network's algorithms, but previous studies in the US have also suggested the AI technology can be discriminatory.

Critics argue that one of the problems is that tech firms, particularly in Silicon Valley, have workforces dominated by male employees.

'Big tech workers are mainly young nerdy males with little life experience,' Noel Sharkey, emeritus professor of artificial intelligence and robotics at the University of Sheffield, told the Telegraph.

'Many errors of judgement could be avoided with a more diverse tech population.'

Jake Moore, a cyber security specialist at ESET, told MailOnline: 'Facebook has a business model which is purely focused on maximising its revenue stream from adverts placed in feeds.

'There are only so many adverts one Facebook feed can view a day so they tend to tailor those requested by the client and chosen for specific user.

'However, this latest research clearly demonstrates that there are biases, unconscious or otherwise, involved in the decision making even when it is assumed not.

'Such errors highlighted in the report shows us that there is such bias involved all around us including future technologies such as artificial intelligence which is meant to be completely fair.'

Global Witness said that as well as finding that the Facebook algorithm gender-stereotyped jobs, the system also failed to stop campaigners posting deliberately discriminatory job adverts.

Adverts for psychologists were also far more likely to be shown to women but pilot jobs were mainly targeted at men

AI EXPERT WARNS AGAINST 'RACIST AND MISOGYNIST ALGORITHMS' A leading expert in artificial intelligence has issued a stark warning against the use of race- and gender-biased algorithms for making critical decisions. Across the globe, algorithms are beginning to oversee various processes from job applications and immigration requests to bail terms and welfare applications. Military researchers are even exploring whether facial-recognition technology could enable autonomous drones to identify targets. University of Sheffield computer expert Noel Sharkey told The Guardian, however, that such algorithms are 'infected with biases' and cannot be trusted. 'There are so many biases happening now, from job interviews to welfare to determining who should get bail and who should go to jail. It is quite clear that we really have to stop using decision algorithms, and I am someone who has always been very light on regulation and always believed that it stifles innovation,' Sharkey told the paper in 2019. 'But then I realised eventually that some innovations are well worth stifling, or at least holding back a bit. So I have come down on the side of strict regulation of all decision algorithms, which should stop immediately.' Calling for a halt on all AI with the potential to change people's lives, Sharkey advocated for vigorous testing before they are used in public. 'There should be a moratorium on all algorithms that impact on people's lives. Why? Because they are not working and have been shown to be biased across the board.' Advertisement

It approved ones that discriminated against women and those aged over 55, after requiring that a box be ticked to comply with its non-discrimination policy.

In a blog post, Global Witness said: 'The policy is evidently self-regulatory and self-certified, and it seems from our test that Facebook will accept patently discriminatory targeting for job adverts.

'In order to avoid advertising in a discriminatory way, we pulled the ads from Facebook before their scheduled publication date.'

If Facebook is found to have breached the Equality Act, the EHRC can demand that it changes its practices, and potentially take it to court to enforce an order.

Campaigners have also reported the social network to the UK's Information Commissioner to investigate whether its ad delivery practices breach data protection laws.

These state that the processing of personal information must not result in discriminatory outcomes.

A Facebook spokesperson said: 'Our system takes into account different kinds of information to try and serve people ads they will be most interested in, and we are reviewing the findings within this report.

'We've been exploring expanding limitations on targeting options for job, housing and credit ads to other regions beyond the US and Canada, and plan to have an update in the coming weeks.'

The report comes just days after Facebook issued a public apology to DailyMail.com and MailOnline for adding an AI-generated label of 'primates' to a news video from the website that featured black men.

A Facebook spokesman admitted the error was 'unacceptable', telling DailyMail.com: 'We apologise to anyone who may have seen these offensive recommendations and to the Daily Mail for its content being subject to it.

'This was an algorithmic error on Facebook and did not reflect the content of the Daily Mail's post,' the company admitted.

Other major technology companies have also faced criticism over racial, gender or age-biased algorithms.

Research found that Twitter's automated photo-cropping algorithm favours young, feminine and light-skinned faces, while Instagram has previously been accused of discriminating against women based on how the platform promotes its users.
Climate change is shrinking polar bear habitats in the Arctic, which is forcing the majestic creatures to inbred in order to survive.

A team of Norwegian scientists found polar bear populations on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard have seen a 10 percent loss in their genetic diversity from 1995 through 2016 due to melting sea ice isolating them from each other.

The increased isolation, according to researchers, will only lead to more inbreeding in future and cause something called 'inbreeding depression' which is the reduced survival and fertility of the offspring of related individuals.

'The magnitude and rate of loss of genetic diversity and gene flow that we observed is alarming considering that polar bears have historically shown relatively little genetic differentiation even on a global scale, but now are facing increasingly strong climatic selective pressure,' researchers shared in the study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B.

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Climate change is shrinking polar bear habitats in the Arctic, which is forcing the majestic creatures to inbred in order to survive. The increased isolation, according to researchers, will only lead to more inbreeding in future and cause something called 'inbreeding depression' which is the reduced survival and fertility of the offspring of related individuals

The team found the west coast of Spitsbergen has experienced the greatest loss of sea ice in the Barents Sea region and also shows the highest rate of change in genetic diversity.

Simulations of sea ice loss show that the region will only experience more melt in the future, thus isolating more polar bears.

Lead author Simo Maduna at the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research in Svanvik and colleagues analyzed DNA samples from 622 polar bears living throughout the four geographical regions of the archipelago: north-west, north-east, south-west and south-east.

Not only did the samples show a loss in genetic diversity, but the results showed the polar bears are starting to form genetic subpopulations, with a significant amount of genetic differentiation from one region to another.

A team of Norwegian scientists found polar bear populations on the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard have seen a 10 percent loss in their genetic diversity from 1995 through 2016 due to melting sea ice isolating them from each other

Scientists analyzed DNA samples from 622 polar bears living throughout the four geographical regions of the archipelago: north-west, north-east, south-west and south-east. Not only did the samples show a loss in genetic diversity, but the results showed the polar bears are starting to form genetic subpopulations, with a significant amount of genetic differentiation from one region to another

And the greatest impact was observed in the north-west group.

However, some polar bears are looking to a different animal when it comes to breeding - grizzly bears.

Paleontologist Larisa DeSantis told DailyMail.com that polar bears are retreating inland to find food, since sea ice is melting, and are mating with grizzly bears that travel up to Alaska.

And the offspring is a completely new species dubbed a 'pizzly bear.'

'This new type of bear is more resilient to climate change and better suited for warmer temperatures,' said DeSantis, who is the associate professor at Vanderbilt University.

Along with inbreeding, climate change is also forcing polar bears into cannibalism.

However, some polar bears are looking to a different animal when it comes to breeding - grizzly bears. The offspring is a completely new species dubbed a 'pizzly bear' (pictured)

Along with inbreeding, climate change is also forcing polar bears into cannibalism

In February 2020, Ilya Mordvintsev, a senior researcher at Moscows Severtsov Institute of Problems of Ecology and Evolution, revealed the animals are feeding on each other in the Arctic as melting ice and fossil fuel extraction destroys their habit.

Ice levels are falling due to rising temperatures and industrial companies are moving into the area -forcing polar bears out of their traditional hunting grounds or on to the shore areas where food is scares.

The rise in cannibalism incidents, according to the researcher, could also be due in part to an increase in human activity in the Arctic who are there to witness the horrific events.

'Cases of cannibalism among polar bears are a long-established fact, but we're worried that such cases used to be found rarely while now they are recorded quite often,' Mordvintsev told Interfax news agency, AFP reported.

'We state that cannibalism in polar bears is increasing.'

Some polar bears are adapting to their changing world and are doing so without killing each other.
The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010 dumped more than four million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico and researchers found marine life is still feeling the impact of the disaster.

A team of scientists led by the California Academy of Sciences show Eastern have significantly higher rates of metaplasia - a condition that can cause debilitating tissue abnormalities - than those from a region unaffected by the oil spill.

A total of 38 specimens from the Gulf of Mexico were analyzed, which were collected in 2010, 2011 and 2013, and 60 percent were found with digestive tract metaplasia, while abnormalities were not found in those from Chesapeake Bay.

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the worst in the nation's history, was sparked by an explosion on a BP-operated oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico on April 20, 2010.

The enormous blast killed 11 people and unleashed 210 million gallons of oil into the ocean - which is a fraction of the total of oil spilled into the oceans.

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A team of scientists led by the California Academy of Sciences show Eastern have significantly higher rates of metaplasia (pictured) -a condition that can cause debilitating tissue abnormalities- than those from a region unaffected by the oil spill

Professor Deanne Roopnarine with Nova Southeastern University (NSU) said in a statement: 'The differences we found between the oysters was devastating.

'Those from Chesapeake Bay had beautiful ciliated gills, which they use to help filter food particles, while some from the Gulf Coast had no cilia at all.

'When I saw that I thought, how are these animals feeding and surviving?'

One theory, according to the researchers, is that the oysters have adapted to live with metaplasia and other impacts from the petroleum extraction industry.

A total of 38 specimens from the Gulf of Mexico were analyzed, which were collected in 2010, 2011 and 2013, and 60 percent were found with digestive tract metaplasia, while abnormalities were not found in those from Chesapeake Bay (pictured)

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the worst in the nation's history, was sparked by an explosion on a BP-operated oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico on April 20, 2010

Without tissue samples from Eastern oysters prior to the oil spill, however, the researchers say there is insufficient baseline data to determine whether or not the rates of metaplasia in Gulf Coast populations were directly affected by the event.

For this study, 38 oysters from the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) and eight specimens from Chesapeake Bay, Maryland were collected.

Those taken within the oil spill region were pulled from marshes in a back-barrier lagoon connected to Barataria Bay at the eastern end of Grand Isle, Louisiana and near the Alabama mainland along the causeway to Dauphin Island in August 2010.

And more oysters were collected at Grand Isle in June 2013.

Those from Chesapeake Bay were gathered in 2010, 2012 and 2013.

Pictured is a map showing the location of the oil spill

Additional oysters were obtained fresh from oyster fishermen collecting in Apalachicola Bay, Florida in December 2010 and December 2011.

'Specimens from the GoM were frozen for periods ranging from one to 16 months (average = 6.2 months), and control specimens from Chesapeake Bay were frozen between one and eight months (average = 2.5 months),' the team wrote in teh study published in the journal POLS ONE.

'We tested for the dependence of the occurrence of any type of metaplasia on the duration for which a specimen was frozen prior to histological analysis, and rejected any such dependence for both ctenidial and digestive tissues (Logistic regression: ctenidia.

Figures A through C show normal digestive tracks of oysters taken from Chesapeake Bay. D through F highlight those taken from Louisiana, which exhibit metaplasia

'All GoM specimens exhibited some type of ctenidial metaplasia regardless of the duration of freezing, whereas no specimens from Chesapeake Bay did.'

The team hopes that their results inspire deeper, longer-term monitoring efforts for Eastern oysters and other important but often overlooked species along the Gulf Coast that could be negatively impacted by continued oil spills in the region, like those being reported in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida.

'As long as we continue extracting petroleum from our planet's oceans, we will continue to expose coastal ecosystems to contamination,' Curator Peter Roopnarine said.

'Hopefully this study and its sampleswhich are now stored in the Academy's scientific collections for future researchers to usewill lead to a better understanding of how oil spills are directly impacting those communities.'
The world's biggest carbon-sucking machine, billed as a tool to reduce climate change, has been switched on in Iceland.

The $15 million (10.8 million) 'direct air capture' (DAC) machine, created by Zurich-based company Climeworks, launched on Wednesday at the Hellisheii Power Station, Iceland.

Called Orca, it will capture 4,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year as part of efforts to reduce levels of the greenhouse gas in the atmosphere  equivalent to the annual emissions from about 790 cars.

However, this total is a mere fraction of global CO2 emissions, which totalled 34.7 billion tons last year, according to the International Energy Agency.

Orca consists of a stack of metal 'air scrubbers' that suck in CO2 from surrounding ambient air using fans, before extracting it using a chemical filter.

The CO2 is then stored underground, reducing the amount of the greenhouse gas that reaches the atmosphere.

The gas can be permanently stored in deep geological formations, or used to make fuels, chemicals, building materials and other products.

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One side of the DAC machine's 'collector' units sucks in CO2-laden air from the surrounding environment

The other side, meanwhile, releases the clean CO2-free air. The CO2 is stored within the collector units, ready to be treated

WHAT IS DAC? Direct air capture (DAC) technology works almost exactly like it sounds. Giant fans draw ambient air into contact with an aqueous solution that picks out and traps carbon dioxide. Through heating and a handful of familiar chemical reactions, that same carbon dioxide is re-extracted and ready for further use -as a carbon source for making valuable chemicals like fuels, or for storage via a sequestration strategy of choice. The resulting fuels, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel, are compatible with existing fuel distribution and transportation infrastructure.

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'Orca, as a milestone in the direct air capture industry, has provided a scalable, flexible and replicable blueprint for Climeworks future expansion,' said Jan Wurzbacher, co-CEO and co-founder of Climeworks.

'Achieving global net-zero emissions is still a long way to go, but with Orca, we believe that Climeworks has taken one significant step closer to achieving that goal.'

Wurzbacher told Bloomberg that Orca cost somewhere between $10 million and $15 million (7.2 million and 10.8 million) to build, including construction, site development and storage.

'The cost per ton of Orca is perhaps less important than what we will learn, to get quicker to the large scale and ultimately lower prices,' he said.

Climeworks commissioned the opening of the the world's first commercial-scale DAC plant in its home country of Switzerland back in 2017, based on working prototypes from labs at research university ETH Zurich.

Iceland has also previously used the technology, but Orca at Hellisheidi is the largest DAC device yet.

Its stark design is meant to embody an 'interconnection between nature and technology' in the Icelandic landscape, according to Climeworks.

Orca, which started construction in May last year, is formed of eight large 'powerful and compact' container-size collector units, stacked in twos. Each of these double stacks is more than 20 feet long.

These collector units capture CO2 by drawing in air using a fan. Inside the collectors is the chemical filter material that collects CO2, while letting the air flow out the other side.

The machine launched on Wednesday at the Hellisheii Power Station, Iceland, which is south-east of the country's capital Reykjavik

Orca is formed of eight large 'powerful and compact' stackable container-size collector units stacked in twos

Orca will capture 4,000 metric tons of CO2 per year as part of efforts to reduce levels of the greenhouse gas in the atmosphere

Once this filter is saturated with CO2, the collector is closed so no more air can get in.

Next, the inside of the collector  and the captured CO2  is heated up using power from the Hellisheii geothermal power plant. This releases CO2 from the filter and extracts it in a concentrated form.

Another company, Carbfix, then mixes the CO2 with water and pumps it deep underground.

Climeworks explains: 'Through natural mineralisation, the CO2 reacts with the basalt rock and turns into stone within a few years.

'The CO2 is thus removed from the air and returned to Earth permanently and safely.'

Pictured is a Climeworks carbon sucking plant in Switzerland. DAC grids like this one are made up of individual, stackable filters known as 'collectors'

A facility for capturing CO2 from air of Swiss Climeworks AG is placed on the roof of a waste incinerating plant in Hinwil, Switzerland July 18, 2017

Climeworks said the technology can easily be replicated at different locations worldwide and on ever larger scales, to scale up the amount of CO2 being captured.

The company stressed the importance of climate capture following 'unprecedented extreme weather events' that have dominated the news headlines this year.

It referred to the recent UN climate panel report  dubbed 'a code red for humanity'  which said global warming had caused an unparalleled melting of glaciers and was close to spiralling out of control.

'The report further confirms that it is crucial to reduce our emissions drastically and remove unavoidable and historic carbon dioxide emissions from the air permanently,' said Climeworks.
I was indoors at Flushing Meadows for some of this match and yet I could still hear exactly who won each point, because the Arthur Ashe crowd was so much in favour of Emma Raducanu.

Many of them may have had no idea who she was when the tournament started, but they've adopted her and taken her in.

Nobody could have seen a qualifier coming through to the semi-finals  particularly after eight matches without dropping a set or even being taken to a tiebreak.

Arthur Ashe crowd was so much in favour of Emma Raducanu during her US Open quarter-final

Many of them may have had no idea who she was at the start, but they've adopted her

At Wimbledon it was much more of a microscope on her, everyone knew who she was and was cheering for her  the expectations were higher. Here, they're just happy to see a young girl who's so excited about the moment. The crowd feels like they're in on it with her.

Right now she seems to be on autopilot, taking it all in with joy.

That can happen when you're young  when I was 16 and won here, I wasn't thinking about being the youngest or beating Chris Evert who'd won here four times.

You're just thinking this is what I have to do, go out and play the match. Sometimes being a newbie is a good thing, you just play on instinct. That's what Emma seems to be doing.

Emma has all the weapons. She can finish points off by stepping up and hitting into the corners

She said afterwards she's taking care of what she can control and it's her journey. That's her mantra to deal with pressure. I like that  it's not about comparing herself to others but just doing her best every day.

She seems to have a good head on her shoulders, she speaks well and getting to the fourth round at Wimbledon probably helped her, it gave her valuable experience.

Emma has all the weapons. She can finish points off by stepping up and hitting into the corners. She has the technique, there's not a shot she hits that's poor.

You also look for poise and emotional control. Look at her opponent Belinda Bencic on Wednesday: she started to unravel, thinking she should be winning this match. Emma seems to have the right mental approach in spades.

She controls points early. Her serve is not as big as it will become  it's at about 110mph at its fastest  but it's her placement of the serve, the variation of the placement and her recognition of where to move, when to move for the next shot to take control.

Getting to the fourth round at Wimbledon probably helped her, it gave her valuable experience

It stems from an aggressive mindset. She's taking those balls early in the point and blasting them accurately into the corners.

Her movement is also fantastic. She's fast out of the corners and when she's in the corners, she'll do something with the ball  not just getting the ball back over the net.

In the first few games she had to get used to the pace of Bencic, as the courts are playing really fast here. It took her four or five games but she made the adjustments. She uses her lower body to absorb the pace, she's not that tall but she uses her lower body to load up, then uncoils and generates her own pace.

Her return of serve is impressive, with her mindset and willingness to attack. She's winning about 61 per cent of opponents' second serves  that builds pressure because they have to take a bit off their first serve. They want to get that in as they're thinking, 'Emma's going to drill my second serve right into the corner.'

Her opponent Belinda Bencic started to unravel, thinking she should be winning this match

Bencic, the No 11 seed, was a big level up for Emma, as her previous highest-ranked opponent was in the mid-40s  and the semi-finals will be another jump. But she's the underdog, so her opponents will feel the pressure more.

Emma's ranking is going to go so high, she'll already be the British No 1, which is incredible.

What a tournament like this does is remove any lingering doubts about where her game will end up, and when she'll have a big break. There's still room there to grow, and she hasn't come close to her full potential.

She was world No 338 at the start of Wimbledon, playing small events at little clubs with 20 people watching. Two months later, she's in a Grand Slam semi-final. It's astounding.
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By night, it looks like a Space Invader. You see it from a great distance, lit white and hanging eerily above the flat, ink-black land. The Ely Octagon: the most remarkable feature of Englands most remarkable cathedral. As though it were built by aliens: which, of course, it was.

William the Bastard and his Norman conquerors had it easy as they marched north from Hastings. London fell easily, then Colchester, Stansted, Cambridge. The loot they seized paid for the castles they flung up to consolidate the regime change.

The model worked with ruthless efficiency, until Ely. There, things began to unravel.

Ethereal: Cambridgeshire's Ely Cathedral, built by William the Conqueror, surrounded by mist

Englands eastern seaboard was different from the shingle and solid cliffs of Pevensey Bay. This was semi-tidal marshland: shifting, mysterious, unreadable. The backwaters of the Wash formed soggy meres, reedbed cover, mists, will-o-the-wisps and quagmire. In heavy armour, riding heavy horses, and duped by Hereward the Wakes guerilla resistance, the French were literally sunk.

Founded in the 6th century, Ely was queen of all the East Anglian monasteries  and she held out longest, until her treacherous abbot betrayed Hereward, and The Last Englishman finally capitulated. The abbey burned, and the conquerors replaced it with todays cathedral, whose soaring buttresses and miraculous octagonal central lantern appear defiantly French.

The monks subsisted largely on eels. Hence the name, Ely. For centuries, this vast flat landscape was the province of their osier trappers, wildfowl hunters on their punts and thatchers gathering the reeds.

Today, under huge skies, birdwatchers, photographers and cyclists can relish a landscape unique to England. Another invasion, that of William of Oranges six centuries later, would drain the swamps. Pioneering Dutch engineers dug channels and built windmills to pump the water into the Wash.

Ely's cathedral has soaring buttresses and a miraculous octagonal central lantern that appear defiantly French

TRAVEL FACTS Doubles at Poets House, a boutique hotel 100 yards from Ely Cathedral, from 190 (poetshouse.co.uk). See visitely.org.uk. Advertisement

Todays oarsmen prize these long clear stretches of water: the lockdown Boat Race was staged here. These waterways and their riverbank pubs are perfect for narrowboat holidays.

At Elys marina, cabin boats can be hired out. Not far away is Elys respected Waterside Antiques Centre in a maze of former granary maltings.

Thanks to a new chain of wetland sanctuaries, the wildfowl are returning. At Welney, in winter you can see the migratory swans being fed. Wicken Fen is adorned with a beautiful bird hide, The Mother, and at Lakenheath, next to the American airbase out of which roar supersonic fighter jets, is the RSPB mereland which resounds instead to the boom of bittern.

Elys railway station, with its direct links to London, Norwich, Kings Lynn, Manchester and Liverpool, is the gateway to all this. If eco-tourism, which requires neither jet travel nor kennelling, is with us to stay, then Ely is in for a boom. But a third invasion is taking place. Nearby North Cambridge  Eldorado for the techno-industries  is mushrooming, endangering the fragile magic of this landscape. And swathes of new housing is rampaging to the north of Ely.

The southerly views have for now been protected by the water-meadows purchase by, of all people, Jeffrey Archer: they are seen to their staggering best from the newly-refurbished Ely Old Hall hotel.

Nonetheless, Network Rail now proposes a road bridge whose pilings, campaigners say, will destroy Elys lakeside SSSI reserves, which are the last nesting grounds for bittern, marsh harrier and Cettis Warbler.

Legend says Hereward was not killed, but transformed into a white wolf, to return at greatest time of threat. To Hereward, this landscape would still be familiar. To those for whom it is unfamiliar, it offers riches. Lets hope a white wolf stalks the corridors of the city planners because you dont know what youve got till its gone.
The Block's Tanya and Vito Guccione caused even more trouble on Wednesday's episode, drawing the ire of the other teams and host Scott Cam.

Scott warned they were $10,000 over budget and were spending unnecessary money on products they could have got for free through Nine's sponsorship deals.

The controversial couple also upset their co-stars, in particular Ronnie and Georgia Caceres, when their children visited the building site.

'You have some budget issues': The Block's Tanya and Vito Guccione caused even more trouble on Wednesday's episode, drawing the ire of the other teams and host Scott Cam

'[You] do have some budget issues. I'm not going to go crook on you today, right, because I'm perplexed. I'm confused,' Scotty told the Gucciones.

'There's some really odd things going on, on further investigation of what you guys are doing.'

The pair spent $2,200 on door jambs when they could have got them for free through Mitre 10, which sponsors The Block.

'The worst budget I've ever seen in week five': Scott (right, with interior design expert Darren Palmer) warned they were $10,000 over budget and were spending unnecessary money on products they could have got for free through Nine's sponsorship deals

Scotty explained they'd wasted more than $4,000 for nothing.

'Your budget, at this stage, is the worst budget I've ever seen in week five, and that needs to improve,' he added sternly.

Later in the episode, Georgia became upset when she saw the Gucciones' children visited them on set before they went out for a family dinner.

Throughout the production, Tanya's mother also regularly dropped off food and clean clothes.

'Here is my issue: I understand you live in Melbourne, but in the spirit of fair competition, if we all can't see our family and friends, I don't see why you can see your family and friends,' Georgia said.

She added: 'It feels like they can do whatever they want.'

Family visits: Later in the episode, Georgia Caceres became upset when she saw the Gucciones' children visited them on set (pictured) before they went out for a family dinner

Not fair: 'I understand you live in Melbourne, but in the spirit of fair competition, if we all can't see our family and friends, I don't see why you can see your family and friends,' Georgia said

Tanya and Vito have been embroiled in The Block's cheating scandal in recent weeks.

The couple, as well as Love Island twins Josh and Luke Packham, were docked two points during Sunday's room reveal after their role in the scandal was exposed.

The cheating saga began when someone allegedly broke into host Scott's office and took a photo of the whiteboard which showed the series' filming schedule - including the dates of each challenge, private tours and furniture consults.

Anyone who saw the photo would have the advantage of being able to plan their specifications weeks in advance or pre-order something for a specific room.

Ronnie and Georgia brought the scandal to light last week, confirming the Packhams had previously shown them a photo of the schedule in question.

After suspicion initially fell on Josh and Luke, Tanya finally confessed to producers she was the first person to see the photo.
Hugh Jackman has raised a glass to his late father Christopher, who passed away on on Monday.

The Australian actor, 52, shared a short video of himself on Instagram with a martini glass on Wednesday.

'Quality. Here's to dad,' he said in honour of his father, before taking a sip. 'And it's so cold,' he added of his beverage.

'Here's to dad': Hugh Jackman shared a special toast in honour of his later father Christopher following his recent passing on Father's Day in Australia, on Sunday

In the caption, The Greatest Showman star thanked his fans and friends for their messages of support.

'I'm grateful for the love and prayers. Here's to Dad,' he added.

On Sunday, Hugh revealed the sad news about his father Christopher, a British-born, Cambridge-educated accountant, who was believed to have been around 84 years old.

Alongside a photo of his father, he wrote: 'In the early hours of Father's Day (AU), my Dad peacefully passed away. And whilst there is deep sadness, I am filled with such gratitude and love.

Toast: On Wednesday, the Australian actor, 52, shared a short video of himself on Instagram with a martini glass. 'Quality. Here's to dad,' he said in honour of his father, before taking a sip

'My Dad was, in a word, extraordinary. He devoted his life to his family, his work and his faith. I pray he is now at peace with God,' he added.

Christopher raised Hugh and his two brothers, Ian and Ralph, as a single father, in Sydney, Australia.

The Broadway star was an eight-year-old schoolboy when his mother Grace left him and his family.

'Whilst there is deep sadness, I am filled with such gratitude and love': On Sunday, Hugh revealed the sad news about his father Christopher, a British-born, Cambridge-educated accountant, who was believed to have been around 84 years old

She left Australia and returned to her native England in the late '70s, leaving her husband to raise their children alone.

After the couple divorced, Hugh's sisters, Zoe and Sonya, went to live with Grace in the UK; Hugh and his brothers, Ian and Ralph, stayed in Sydney with their father.

In 2012, Hugh broke down on 60 Minutes when discussing his mother leaving his father, himself and his siblings.

Moving: Hugh Jackman has thanked his fans for their heartfelt messages of support after the death of his father Christopher

Scars: The Broadway star was an eight-year-old schoolboy when his mother Grace left him and his family. She left Australia and returned to her native England in the late '70s, leaving her husband to raise their children alone. Hugh is pictured as a child

He said: 'My father is my rock. It's where I learned everything about loyalty, dependability, being there day in, day out, no matter what'.

'It's always about the family,' he added of the values that his father has instilled in him.

Hugh explained that having children of his own with wife Deborra-Lee Furness - they share son Oscar, 21, and daughter Ava, 16, both adopted - gave him 'another level of empathy and understanding' that allowed him to build bridges with his mother.

Forgiveness: Hugh and his mother reconciled years later, and are now frequently pictured together at the actor's ritzy events and in social media posts. Pictured together

Learning: Hugh explained that having children of his own with wife Deborra-Lee Furness - they share son Oscar, 21, and daughter Ava, 16, both adopted - gave him 'another level of empathy and understanding' that allowed him to build bridges with his mother. High is pictured with his wife on children on the day of his son Oscar's graduation

Fortunately, Hugh and his mother reconciled years later, and are now frequently pictured together at the actor's ritzy events and in social media posts.

He told The Sun newspaper in October 2011: 'I am 43 now and we have definitely made our peace, which is important.

'I was always quite connected with my mum. I have a good relationship with her' he added.
A multi-million deal has been made on an Adelaide property that was the former home of famous Australian artist, John Dowie.

The Dulwich villa was put under offer earlier this year for $2.53 million and was settled in September, reports Realestate.com.au.

It had been owned by the Dowie family since 1917 and it was where the late renowned painter and sculptor spent a lot of his time.

Sold: A multi-million deal has been made on an Adelaide property that was the former home of famous Australian artist, John Dowie

'We had over 200 people through the door over the two-and-a-half week campaign,' said selling agent Penny Riggs from Klemich Real Estate.

She states that the successful Sydney buyer was a heritage architect who planned to preserve the grand four-bedroom, two bathroom home, which includes two murals painted by Dr Dowie when he lived there.

'Theyll be moving in and renovating it sympathetically with the existing house,' the agent continued. 'They loved the murals and they definitely will be retained.'

Special: It had been owned by the Dowie family since 1917 and it was where the late renowned painter and sculptor spent a lot of his time

Safe: The successful Sydney buyer was a heritage architect who planned to preserve the grand four-bedroom, two bathroom home, which includes two murals painted by Dr Dowie when he lived there

Since John's death in 2008, the property has been the home of his niece Penny Dowie for the past 13 years.

She has used her uncle's studio by knocking down a wall that separated two bedrooms to work on her own art projects.

Ms Dowie and the rest of the Dowie family were reportedly pleased the house was being preserved by the new buyer.

'The vendors are thrilled that its going to a family who appreciates the history,' said Riggs.

Art house: The property has been the home of Dr Dowie's niece Penny Dowie for the past 13 years. She has used her uncle's studio by knocking down a wall that separated two bedrooms to work on her own art projects

Dr Dowie inherited the property from his parents and worked on many of his famous paintings and sculptures in the home.

His acclaimed work can be seen around Adelaide including the Three Rivers Fountain in Victoria Square and The Slide in Rundle Mall.

He served in World War II and was one of the Rats of Tobruk during the 1941 Siege of Tobruk in Libya.

The artist later furthered his studies in London and Florence before returning back to Australia.

He had lived in his Adelaide home from the age of two til the age of 93 when he passed away in 2008.
Kimberley Garner looked sensational as she displayed her toned figure in a revealing outfit on Wednesday night.

The former Made In Chelsea star posed for the cameras at the grand opening of the Mondrian Shoreditch hotel in London, which was also attended by a host of celebrities.

Baring her stomach in a cutout khaki top and silk skirt, the swimwear designer, 30, enjoyed the launch party, where group Hot Chip performed a DJ set.

Beauty: Kimberley Garner looked sensational as she displayed her toned figure in a revealing outfit on Wednesday night at the grand opening of the Mondrian Shoreditch hotel in London

Kimberley, alongside other guests at the hotel launch, were treated to sangria and cocktails, as well as light bites at the venue's new Spanish restaurant Bibo.

The former reality star looked chic for the high-profile event, accessorising her outfit with a white clutch bag and heels.

Kimberley was in good company, with music artist Naughty Boy and Made In Chelsea star Emily Blackwell also in attendance.

After tucking into canapes and sipping champagne at the hotel's restaurant, VIPs were invited to the Rose Bar, where they danced the night away.

Stunner: The former Made In Chelsea star posed for the cameras at the grand opening, which was attended by a host of celebrities

Fun night: Baring her stomach in a cutout khaki top and silk skirt, the swimwear designer, 30, enjoyed the launch party, where group Hot Chip performed a DJ set

Details: The blonde beauty completed her look with a pair of see-through heels and a white clutch bag

Jaw-dropping: Kimberley showcased her physique in the revealing green crop top and white satin skirt as she was seen arriving and exiting the launch

Sexy: She posed up a storm as she made her way to the event

It comes after Kimberley showed off her svelte figure as she posed in a sheer dress during a last minute fitting for the Venice Film Festival on Monday.

The beauty went braless beneath the eye-catching garment which was covered in silver sequins to preserve her modesty.

The figure-hugging shape of the star's BERTA frock made the most of her hourglass figure as she posed with her sunglasses in her hand for a series of snaps she posted on Instagram.

Kimberley's impressively flat stomach was noticeable beneath the see-through material, which highlighted every inch of her tanned figure,

Her blonde hair was tied back in a ponytail with some strands left hanging down to the front, framing her pretty facial features.

Sharing a slew of snaps of herself in the dress on Instagram, she wrote: 'Gatsby/rock'n'roll - last minute fittings to Venice FF.'

Edgy: Tigerlily Taylor showed off her sense of style in baggy jeans which she teamed with a white crop for the event

Leggy: Kelly Jade Williams (left) and Jade Mia Sexton made sure all eyes at at the private Casamigos House of Friends event at Isabel Mayfair

Pose: Rufus Taylor (left) and Tigerlily Taylor attended the grand opening celebration for the Mondrian Shoreditch on Wednesday night

Stylish: Victoria Brown looked chic in a white blazer and black trousers as she sipped on a drink

Kimberley has had a busy summer posing on beaches around the world in her own designs, including during the Cannes Film Festival in France in July.

Last week she shared some snaps of herself in a black bikini as she posed on the white sandy beach of the Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel on the Caribbean island of Anguilla.

She could be seen wearing the dark swimwear which left her toned midriff on show.

The star posed to the side with her thigh on display, showing off her incredible figure.

Exciting: The event featured a DJ set by Hot Chip Megamix and was attended by a host of stars

Party: Emily Atack's ex boyfriend Jude Taylor, Jade Mia Sexton and Kelly Jade Williams all posed together

Unlikely trio: Elsewhere, Oliver Proudlock, Jack Brooksbank - who is married to Princess Eugenie - and Alistair Guy caught up at the private Casamigos House of Friends event at Isabel Mayfair

The businesswoman has enjoyed the summer with her boyfriend, who she is yet to name.

The influencer previously surprised fans when she revealed she cancelled a secret wedding and ended a long-term relationship last summer.

Speaking to MailOnline in September 2019, Kimberley confirmed she had called it quits with her former boyfriend.

The businesswoman said: 'I ended the relationship recently. It was a really wonderful three years and we are still good friends today.'
Married At First Sight bride KC Osborne recently broke up with her boyfriend Jason Engler because the pair 'just didn't align'.

But on Wednesday, the 36-year-old construction estimator hinted that the 32-year-old dancer may have ended their romance to appear on another dating show.

In a video shared to Instagram, he said: 'I'm not going to get into details of why obviously, she said something about alignment, she's going far left, I'm going far right.'

'It's one of the many reasons': Married At First Sight's Jason Engler, 36, hinted that his ex KC Osborne ended their romance so she could appear on UK dating show Ex on the Beach

'No we don't really talk, not that friendly with each other anymore unfortunately. Is it because she's going on a dating show? Possibly... I don't even know if she's going on it.'

Jason went on to say her that rumour is 'one of the many reasons' for their split.

KC announced her split from Jason last month during a Q&A on Instagram.

'No we don't really talk... Is it because she's going on a dating show? Possibly': Jason went on to say that the rumour is 'one of the many reasons' for their split

When a fan asked what happened between the pair, she wrote: 'We just don't align with each other. That's that. I'm good. I'm happy.'

Jason's video comes just days after it was reported that KC was set to reunite with her ex, Michael Goonan on the new season of ITV's Ex on the Beach.

Last month, a source close to KC told Daily Mail Australia that KC was told 'she needed to make it clear she was single,' ahead of her appearance on the show.

'KC and Jason weren't just a one-time hook-up. They were obsessed with each other,' they said.

Revealed: Jason's video comes just days after it was reported that KC was set to reunite with her ex, Michael Goonan on the new season of ITV's Ex on the Beach. KC pictured with Michael

'He was serious about their relationship and even flew down to Sydney to hang out with her.'

The show's producers were hoping for a 'toxic love triangle' with KC's ex-boyfriend, Michael and his MAFS bride Stacey Hampton, who has since pulled out of the project.

On Tuesday, Goonan seemingly confirmed his appearance on the show after he was spotted catching a flight to Colombia.


Malin Akerman was seen taking her son Sebastian on an electric bike ride in Los Angeles on Wednesday afternoon.

The 43-year-old performer appeared to be enjoying the warm weather as she sported a very casual ensemble while her child held onto his mother's stomach as they rolled along the city's streets.

The Billions cast member shares Sebastian with her former husband and bandmate Roberto Zincone, whom she divorced in 2014.

Hitting the road: Malin Akerman was seeing taking her son Sebastian for a ride on her electric bike in Los Angeles on Wednesday

Akerman wore a paint-spattered set of gray overalls that showed off the lower portion of her legs during her ride.

The Childrens Hospital actress contrasted her outerwear with a pair of dual-tone sneakers and a black tank top.

She accessorized with a single bracelet and wore a sizable silver helmet, both of which added shine to her neutrally-colored outfit.

Her gorgeous blonde locks were tied in a loose bun and covered mainly by her protective headwear when she took to the road.

Appropriate attire: The performer sported a pair of paint-splattered overalls and a shining silver helmet while spending time riding along the pavement

Akerman and Zincone initially met in 2003 when they began performing together in a band called The Petaltones, where she sang and he played drums.

The pair began a relationship while playing in the musical group, and they went on to tie the knot during a ceremony in the latter's home country of Italy in 2007.

The couple waited for six years before they welcomed Sebastian into their lives in 2013, and she notably received a tattoo that featured the first letter of her husband's last name during their time together.

However, the pair separated that same year and finalized their divorce in 2014.

Moving on: The Billions actress later began a relationship with Jack Donnelly, whom she married in 2018; they are seen in 2019

Akerman was later linked to actor Jack Donnelly, with whom she was first spotted in 2017.

The happy pair were initially seen spending a bit of quality time in each other's company while they vacationed in Puerto Rico.

A source spoke to People shortly after the sighting and expressed that the two were officially 'together and really happy in one another's company.'

The happy couple announced that they had become engaged that October and went on to make their union official the following December.

Akerman spoke about taking on a role in the Netflix film The Sleepover with her son in mind during an interview with StyleCaster, where she noted that her motherhood had affected her personal interests.

Doting mom: Akerman revealed that she had taken on a role in the Netflix comedy film The Sleepover while 'looking for something I could watch with' her son; they are seen in 2018

'Having a child has shifted things for me. Because I couldn't show him any of my movies prior to this one, I was looking for something I could watch with him,' she said.

The performer then noted that, although her child was aware of her acting career, he was generally not allowed to watch her projects until she was cast in the action-comedy flick.

'He's at an age now where he knows what I do. He's been to sets, but he's never gotten to see any of the results. I've looked into doing voice overs for any sort of Pixar film. Then this came around, and I loved the script,' she stated.
Erika Girardi warned Sutton Stracke to stop accusing her of being a liar on Wednesday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills on Bravo.

The 50-year-old reality star, who performs as Erika Jayne, confronted Sutton, 49, during a sophisticated dinner party hosted by Kathy Hilton, 62.

'Would you like to get sued?' Erika asked Sutton during the episode titled Threats And Promises.

Dinner drama: Erika Girardi warned Sutton Stracke to stop accusing her of being a liar on Wednesday's episode of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills on Bravo

'No, of course not,' replied Sutton who accused Erika of lying to them as her estranged lawyer husband Tom Girardi, 82, faces a federal lawsuit accusing him of embezzling his clients.

Kyle Richards, 52, tried to interject on Sutton's behalf, but Erika stood her ground.

'If you want to talk about someone else's health issues and you think that person isn't gonna come after you, think again,' Erika said, seemingly referencing Tom and his ill health.

She added in a confessional: 'Sutton's in way over her head. It's not about me suing her. It's more about, ''Careful what you say about other people that aren't here.'' He ain't dead and gone, honey'.

Lawsuit threat: Sutton was asked by Erika if she wanted to be sued after she asked her questions about her estranged husband Tom Girardi and his embezzlement scandal

Dorit Kemsley, 44, said Erika's comments sounded like a threat that was directed at all of them. Erika told her that it wasn't a threat because 'she took it to another level.' Erika said it was one thing to ask questions, but it's another thing to call someone a 'liar and talk about their health.'

Dorit said in a confessional that she didn't think it was fair that Erika was threatening Sutton. She said that Erika was making it sound like those who have doubts or questions face the potential danger of being sued.

'Is that something that we all have to be worried about?' she asked.

Over head: 'Sutton's in way over her head. It's not about me suing her. It's more about, ''Careful what you say about other people that aren't here.'' He ain't dead and gone, honey,' Erika said in a confessional

'I'm about to really lose my s*** on all of you,' Erika said.

Lisa Rinna, 57, told her to take a breath and hold it in.

'If you ever call me a liar again,' Erika said pointing her finger at Sutton. 'I'm coming for you.'

Finger pointed: 'If you ever call me a liar again,' Erika said pointing her finger at Sutton. 'I'm coming for you'

''Trust me,'' she added.

Sutton said in a confessional that she didn't know exactly what Erika was saying.

'Am I going to wake up with a horse's head in my bed?' she said.

Godfather reference: 'Am I going to wake up with a horse's head in my bed?' Sutton wondered in a confessional

At the table, Sutton told Erika that she threatened her and Erika said she didn't threaten her but said she 'promised' her.

Kathy said in a confessional that she had entertained a lot of and never remembered anything going off the rails like this.

'The souffle is probably falling in the kitchen,' she said. 'But on the brighter side, there's more leftovers for me.'

Promised threat: At the table, Sutton told Erika that she threatened her and Erika said she didn't threaten her but said she 'promised' her

'Don't push unless you are ready to get pushed back on,' Erika said to Sutton at the table.

Kyle told Erika that she can't threaten people, but Erika said again that she wasn't threatening and that she was 'promising.'

Sutton got up to leave and Erika asked her where she was going. When she stood up, Erika pushed her chair back in and said bye.

No pushing: 'Don't push unless you are ready to get pushed back on,' Erika said to Sutton at the table

'I am not used to people like that,' Sutton said as she stood next to the table. 'And that will make me leave.'

'Bye there is the door,' said Erika.

Kathy went after Sutton and told her to not walk off, but Sutton told her she didn't want to sit there and be threatened.

Taking off: 'I am not used to people like that,' Sutton said as she stood next to the table. 'And that will make me leave'

Garcelle Beauvais, 54, went out to talk to her and Sutton started crying. Kyle and Kathy tried to get Sutton to stay, but she insisted on leaving.

Garcelle said in a confessional that what she saw with Erika was the 'nastiest thing I have ever seen.'

At the table, Crystal Kung Minkoff, 35, told Erika that her response would have been exactly the same.

Great dinner: Kathy Hilton hosted the fancy dinner that fell apart with the arguing

Garcelle came back and told Erika that she freaked Sutton out. Erika said she wasn't going to be guilted into feeling bad about it

She said Sutton called her a liar which is 'what I am continuously called every f***ing day of my life right now.'

Kyle said in a confessional that it bothered her to see Sutton backing down and being intimidated by Erika.

Every day: Erika said Sutton called her a liar which is 'what I am continuously called every f***ing day of my life right now'

'I really think Erika's bark is worse than her bite,' Kyle said.

The next day Lisa went over to Garcelle's house. Lisa said she needed to be filled in on what happened because she was too drunk at the dinner.

Garcelle told her that it was bad and that Erika 'lost her s***.'

No memory: The next day Lisa went over to Garcelle's house to be filled in on what happened because she was too drunk at the dinner

Sutton went shopping at Bonhams with Kyle. The salesperson showed them a pair of seven carat diamond earrings for $215,000 and Sutton said 'that's a good price.'

Kyle bought a Cartier ring and Sutton bought another ring. Kyle asked her how she was feeling. Kyle said she encouraged her to be honest. Sutton got upset and walked away.

Sutton said in a confessional that she wanted people to talk to her as an equal.

Shopping trip: Sutton went shopping at Bonhams with Kyle and the salesperson showed them a pair of seven carat diamond earrings for $215,000 and Sutton said 'that's a good price'

She then used an air quote to describe Kyle as her friend. Kyle told her that she was offended because she had been a good friend to her. Sutton told her that she was honest to Erika and asked her the questions that everyone else was afraid to ask.

'You are all afraid of her,' Sutton said to Kyle.

'I'm not afraid of Erika, she has given me nothing to be afraid about but you looked very afraid of her last night,' Kyle said. 'As your friend, it bothered me to see you back down and be weak.'

No fear: 'I'm not afraid of Erika, she has given me nothing to be afraid about but you looked very afraid of her last night,' Kyle said. 'As your friend, it bothered me to see you back down and be weak'

Dorit meanwhile had a date night with her husband PK. PK wanted to know about Erika. PK said what Tom did was not 'alleged,' but what was alleged was that Tom had 'lost his mind.' He said he found that 'highly unlikely that guy has been actively borrowing money and doing what he has been doing for the last few years.

'He suddenly can't remember anything,' said PK. He said Erika's Instagram posting photos in lingerie 'living her best life' is 'scratching the nose of the creditors.'

'They will come for her,' said PK who added that she needed to reinvent herself.

Date night: Dorit meanwhile had a date night with her husband PK

Later Garcelle had the women over at her house for a Haitian dinner. Lisa was the first to arrive. Garcelle then bet her $20 that Dorit would be the last to arrive. Dorit was not happy when she learned she was the subject of a bet. It was awkward when Sutton arrived. Kyle was actually the last to arrive at the party.

Garcelle thanked all the women for coming over. Lisa said in a confessional that the food was not what she was used to because she normally does not eat fish. Sutton apologized to Kyle for using air quotes when describing their friendship. Erika ignored them and just scrolled on her phone.

She said in a confessional that she was just scrolling The New York Times because it was more interesting. Kyle said in a confessional that it was awkward for everyone that Erika and Sutton weren't talking.

Keeping quiet: Erika ignored them and just scrolled on her phone

Dorit, Lisa, and Erika all decided they needed to leave. Sutton told Garcelle she didn't care that she didn't get an apology from Erika. Kyle told her that Erika was expecting an apology.

Garcelle said she found her comments triggering because she remembered when Kyle had an issue with her claiming she didn't pay for a charity auction item and took it to the group instead of taking it directly to her.

Kyle told her 'we are passed that.' Sutton said she was sick about being 'in the hot seat.' Kyle asked her what she planned to do because she can't just not talk to Erika. Crystal told them that Erika told her she was not going to apologize to Sutton and that she didn't see a path forward for them.

Got triggered: Garcelle said she found her comments triggering because she remembered when Kyle had an issue with her claiming she didn't pay for a charity auction item and took it to the group instead of taking it directly to her

'No one has to hang out and be phony and whatever,' said Crystal. 'You guys aren't friends.'

Kyle said it was awkward but then thanked Garcelle for a beautiful night, which made Garcelle and Sutton laugh.

The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills will return next Wednesday on Bravo.
Katie Holmes is enjoying all of the festivities that come with New York Fashion Week, which officially commenced on Wednesday, September 8.

And the 42-year-old actress put on a stylish display as she arrived to the opening of the Kate Spade New York Popup Installation at Gansevoort Plaza.

Holmes struck a pose before the event's aptly themed photo op in a darling cerulean midi dress.

Stylish: Katie Holmes put on a stylish display as she arrived to the opening of the Kate Spade New York Popup Installation at Gansevoort Plaza on Wednesday

Showcasing her quirky side, Katie paired the A-line number with some leopard print kitten heels.

The Dawson's Creek alum had a black leather handbag tucked under her arm and a face mask hanging from her wrist.

She wore her shoulder-length brunette hair in loose waves, while amplifying her natural beauty with a bit of blush and mascara.

After getting in some solo shots, Katie was later joined by American Crime Story: Impeachment star Beanie Feldstein.

Darling: Holmes struck a pose before the event's apt spade-themed photo op in a darling cerulean midi dress

Perfect pairing: Showcasing her quirky side, Katie paired the A-line number with some leopard print kitten heels

The 28-year-old actress modeled a beautiful leopard-print Kate Spade dress with slightly puffed sleeves.

She completed her look with a pair of black Mary Jane heels and a bright pink handbag for a pop of color.

Beanie's brunette tresses were worn down and, while in close proximity to other attendees, rocked a polkadot face mask.

Good company: After getting in some solo shots, Katie was later joined by American Crime Story: Impeachment star Beanie Feldstein

Wild side: The 28-year-old actress modeled a beautiful leopard-print Kate Spade dress with slightly puffed sleeves

Lindsay Ellingson put her burgeoning baby bump on display in a mini version of Beanie's eye-catching dress.

The 36-year-old runway maven, who is expecting her first child with husband Sean Clayton, also rocked some black suede heels.

She carried her essentials in a maroon Kate Spade crossbody bag.

Trend: Lindsay Ellingson put her burgeoning baby bump on display in a mini version of Beanie's eye-catching dress

Sweet: The 36-year-old runway maven, who is expecting her first child with husband Sean Clayton, also rocked some black suede Mary Jane heels

Elegance: Actress Savannah Lee Smith looked elegant in a plunging black jumpsuit and a bright red purse shaped like an apple

Accessorize: The Gossip Girl star wore her raven tresses down and tucked behind her ears to show off her dramatic silver earrings

Actress Savannah Lee Smith looked elegant in a plunging black jumpsuit and a bright red purse shaped like an apple.

The Gossip Girl star wore her raven tresses down and tucked behind her ears to show off her dramatic silver earrings.

Writer LaTonya Yvette, rocking the same quirky purse as Smith, slipped into a silky floral print number for Wednesday's pop up.

Flower power: Writer LaTonya Yvette, rocking the same quirky purse as Smith, slipped into a silky floral print number for Wednesday's pop up

Arrivals: Sterling Monett and fashion blogger Allie Provost attended Wednesday's star-studded event

Sterling Monett mixed sweet and edgy in a white sundress paired with some black leather boots.

Fashion blogger Allie Provost proved the power of clashing patterns by rocking a mix of floral, stripes, and tartan.

Influencing in Color's Nikki Gamble, Brandy Gueary, Meghan Adams and Shay Sweeney posed beneath an apple tree in ensembles that reflected their individual styles.

In order to attend this year's New York Fashion Week runway shows and events, attendees must present proof of vaccination status, as per NYC's indoor event policies.

Individual: Influencing in Color's Nikki Gamble, Brandy Gueary, Meghan Adams and Shay Sweeney posed beneath an apple tree in ensembles that reflected their individual styles

Vaccinations: In order to attend this year's New York Fashion Week runway shows and events, attendees must present proof of vaccination status, as per NYC's indoor event policies
Shanina Shaik and Jordan Barrett are two of Australia's biggest modelling exports.

And on Wednesday, the pair looked incredibly stylish as they joined Alessandra Ambrosio, 40, at New York Fashion Week.

The models all stepped out at the Dundas x Revolve runway show at the Casa Cipriani in Lower Manhattan.

Supermodels unite! Jordan Barrett and Shanina Shaik joined Alessandra Ambrosio at New York Fashion Week on Wednesday

Shanina, 30, stunned at the event in a leather look dress that hugged her curves.

She teamed the look with a pair of black strappy heels and wore her locks in a slick tight bun and natural looking makeup.

Alessandra, who like Shanina walked for Victoria's Secret in the past, looked gorgeous in a black one-shoulder and cut-out dress with gold heels.

Flawless: Shanina, 30, stunned at the event in a leather look dress that hugged her curves. She teamed the look with a pair of black strappy heels and wore her locks in a slick tight bun and natural looking makeup

Dressed up: Jordan, 24, meanwhile looked dapper in a black shirt and trousers, with leather mules

Jordan, 24, meanwhile looked dapper in a black shirt and trousers, with leather mules.

He appeared to fly solo at the event, after marrying partner Fernando Casablancas in a low-key ceremony in Ibiza which was attended by the likes of British supermodel Kate Moss.

Shanina meanwhile, who is based in the US, has just returned from two luxury getaways.

Newlywed: He appeared to fly solo at the event, after marrying partner Fernando Casablancas in a low-key ceremony in Ibiza which was attended by the likes of British supermodel Kate Moss

She recently spent time in Tulum, Mexico with her boyfriend Matthew Adesuyan.

Before that, she travelled to Croatia for model Jasmine Tookes' Bachelorette party.

Throughout her successful career, she has modelled for the likes of Victoria's Secret and Chanel.
Jimmy Bartel has been pictured for the first time since it was revealed his ex-wife Nadia had attended an illegal gathering on the same day she finalised their divorce.

The retired Geelong Cats star, 37, looked cheerful and clean-cut as he stepped out in Melbourne on Wednesday.

He dressed casually in a white shirt, navy shorts and comfortable white sneakers as he visited his local shops.

Happy days: Jimmy Bartel has been pictured for the first time since it was revealed his ex-wife Nadia had attended an illegal gathering on the same day she finalised their divorce

The future looks bright! The retired Geelong Cats star, 37, looked cheerful and clean-cut as he stepped out in Melbourne on Wednesday

The footy commentator also donned a face mask and chatted on the phone.

Jimmy's outing comes after it emerged his former wife Nadia had likely attended an illegal gathering in Melbourne on the same day the exes finalised their divorce - meaning the event was possibly a celebration.

The Bartels, once considered a glamour couple of the AFL, separated in 2019 after five years of marriage.

The hosts of the Shameless podcast said in their latest episode that Nadia's lockdown party appeared to coincide with the date of her divorce being settled.

Out and about: The footy commentator also donned a face mask and chatted on the phone

Catching up: A smiling Jimmy pulled down his face mask as he chatted to a friend driving past

'She's just gone through a highly publicised divorce - it was finalised last week, I'm pretty sure on the day that this video was taken,' journalist Michelle Andrews said.

Meanwhile, Victoria Police confirmed on Thursday that Nadia wouldn't be charged with any drug offences stemming from the illegal gathering.

The latest developments come after the WAG, 36, and three other women were issued with Penalty Infringement Notices for breaching Covid lockdown last Thursday.

'Four women have been issued with Penalty Infringement Notices following a gathering at a Richmond address in contravention of the Chief Health Officers restrictions,' a Victoria Police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia on Monday.

Sighting: Jimmy's outing comes after it emerged his former wife Nadia had likely attended an illegal gathering in Melbourne on the same day the exes finalised their divorce - meaning the event was possibly a celebration

End of the road: The Bartels, once considered a glamour couple of the AFL, separated in 2019 after five years of marriage

Claims: The hosts of the Shameless podcast said in their latest episode that Nadia's illegal lockdown party appeared to coincide with the date of her divorce being settled

'The incident occurred at a private address on Thursday, September 2, at 4pm.

'A 36-year-old Windsor woman, a 32-year-old Richmond woman, a 33-year-old Pascoe Vale woman and a 35-year-old Strathmore woman have all been issued with a Penalty Infringement Notice for failing to comply with requirements in relation to a private or public gathering.

'The monetary penalty for each Penalty Infringement Notice is $5,452.

'A fifth woman at the address was not charged as she was complying with CHO employment restrictions.'

Caught on camera: Bartel was recorded snorting the powder off a $1.50 Kmart plate in a video mistakenly shared to Instagram by her friend and business partner Ellie Pearson

Regrets: Nadia later apologised for flouting Melbourne's lockdown by hosting the illegal gathering at which she snorted a line of white powder

It comes after Nadia apologised for flouting Melbourne's lockdown by hosting the illegal gathering at which she snorted a line of white powder.

She was recorded snorting the powder off a $1.50 Kmart plate in a video mistakenly shared to Instagram by her friend and business partner Ellie Pearson.

Ellie had meant to send the video to her sister, but due to a cracked phone screen posted it on social media by accident and didn't delete it until 10 minutes later.

Nadia wrote on Instagram on Friday evening: 'Hi everyone, I have let you all down by my actions. I take full responsibility and I am committed to taking all necessary steps to ensure I make better choices in future.

'To my family and friends, my business partners and the public health workers trying to keep us all safe, I am embarrassed and remorseful.

'I am truly and deeply sorry. I hope I can earn your forgiveness and, in time, your trust.'
Dr. Dre took a break from all of the drama surrounding his ongoing divorce drama with ex-wife Nicole Young by helping honor iconic L.A. DJ Kurt 'Big Boy' Alexander.

The 56-year-old rapper was joined by another Los Angeles icon, comedian/actor George Lopez for the ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

The entertainers were joined by Councilmember Mitch O'Farrell and Hollywood Chamber Chair of the Board Nicole Mihalka for the ceremony, held outside of Amoeba Music on Hollywood Boulevard.

Dre day: Dr. Dre took a break from all of the drama surrounding his ongoing divorce drama with ex-wife Nicole Young by helping honor iconic L.A. DJ Kurt 'Big Boy' Alexander

Dre, George and Kurt: The 56-year-old rapper was joined by another Los Angeles icon, comedian/actor George Lopez for the ceremony on Wednesday afternoon

Dre headed out with a plain light brown sweatshirt with matching brown sweat pants for the ceremony.

He was seen with a black face mask before he went up to speak at the ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

The rap icon completed his look with a pair of pristine white low-top Nike sneakers for his outing.

Dre's outing: Dre headed out with a plain light brown sweatshirt with matching brown sweat pants for the ceremony

Dre took to the stage and said he was 'honored' to support his friend Big Boy, adding it was his 'fourth time out here' adding it 'never gets old.'

'I admire Big as a pioneer of radio but also a friend, and only Big Boy knows how to control the airways for the hip-hop community here in Los Angeles and the world,' Dre said.

'Big Boy is hip-hop culture representing the West Coast and worldwide,' Dre said, adding it was a 'thrilling experience' seeing his new studio.

Honored: Dre took to the stage and said he was 'honored' to support his friend Big Boy, adding it was his 'fourth time out here' adding it 'never gets old'

Dre was joined by George Lopez, who wore a sharp blue suit to the ceremony, heading to the mic with a few jokes, thanking his, 'opening act,' Dr. Dre.

'As a Latino, I can say that Big Boy's commitment to the Latino community has been there all of the 27 years he's been on the air, and if you don't believe it his wife is named Vero,' Lopez said.

He added that he's been asked to speak at a lot of these star ceremonies, 'but I've never been asked to speak for someone I consider family.'

George: Dre was joined by George Lopez, who wore a sharp blue suit to the ceremony, heading to the mic with a few jokes, thanking his, 'opening act,' Dr. Dre

The outing comes just days after the latest development in Dr. Dre's ongoing divorce saga with Nicole Young, where he sued her for embezzlement.

The rap mogul claimed that she withdrew over $350,000 from his recording studio in Sherman Oaks, California.

Nicole countered that she was entitled to the money because her name was still on the account and they were still married at the time.

Embezzlement: The outing comes just days after the latest development in Dr. Dre's ongoing divorce saga with Nicole Young, where he sued her for embezzlement

Withdrew: The rap mogul claimed that she withdrew over $350,000 from his recording studio in Sherman Oaks, California.
They may have found love on a reality show.

But on Thursday, The Bachelor's Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston proved they're very much settling into everyday life as they enjoyed a moment of domestic bliss together.

In a video posted to the 31-year-old pilot's Instagram Stories, Jimmy and Holly marked a 'big relationship milestone.'

Domestic bliss! On Thursday, The Bachelor's Jimmy Nicholson and Holly Kingston celebrated a 'big relationship milestone', Holly being allowed into the pilot's garage

The beaming couple were all smiles as they spent time in Jimmy's garage, before undertaking some light painting duties.

'Big relationship milestone... Holz was welcomed into the garage for some painting,' he captioned the footage.

Following their bonding time, Holly, 27, was seen giggling as she asked her boyfriend, 'How fun was that?'

Meanwhile, Jimmy cheekily joked, 'It was like having a little child.'

Good clean fun: The beaming couple were all smiles as they spent time in Jimmy's garage, before undertaking some light painting duties

The couple's hilarious exchange comes days after Jimmy was forced to shut down rumours that the pair knew each other before filming even began on The Bachelor.

Speaking to Yahoo Lifestyle on Monday, Jimmy labelled the 'colourful' rumours as 'absolute rubbish'.

'If I had known her before the show I would've locked her down and not have to put us both through all of this stuff,' Jimmy said.

'I had never met Holly before the show.'

'Rubbish': The couple's hilarious exchange comes days after Jimmy was forced to shut down rumours that the pair knew each other before filming even began on The Bachelor

Jimmy added that the rumours probably stemmed from the fact that he shared a mutual friend - Francesca Hung - with his chosen lady.

'One of my high school friends, Josh, who I was probably mates with in year 8 - I used to go on playdates with him after school - his little sister, Francesca, is good mates with Holly,' he explained.

'That was our connection, but I'd never met Hol. I've only probably met Francesca a couple of times through Josh.'

Back in April, sources told Daily Mail Australia that Holly was encouraged to sign up to the Channel 10 dating show by the former Miss Universe Australia.

Meanwhile, Jimmy and his winner, Holly seem to be enjoying their time together as a couple.

The pair went Instagram official on Friday night, with Jimmy sharing a series of selfies of himself and Holly loved-up at home.

Sweet: Last week, Jimmy Nicholson and his winner, Holly Kingston, enjoyed their first day going public as a couple. Both pictured
Peter Kay has revealed he's writing his third autobiography after being inspired to do so during the recording of the audiobook version of his first memoir.

In a new interview to coincide with the release of the audiobook The Sound Of Laughter, the comedian, 48, told how he plans to tell all about his life working in TV, with the book coming four years after he stepped back from the spotlight.

During the interview, Peter also told how his 'priorities' had 'changed', especially since becoming a father and reflected that a lot of people may have felt the same importance to balance work and family life amid the coronavirus lockdown.

Comeback: Peter Kay has revealed he's writing his third autobiography after being inspired to do so during the recording of the audiobook version of his first memoir

The Phoenix Nights star originally released his first autobiography in 2006, but is now only getting around to recording the audiobook, noting that 'life got in the way'.

He did initially record one chapter for charity shortly after the book's release, but has not revisited it since.

The Sound Of Laughter currently holds the record of biggest selling hardback autobiography in British history. Peter went on to write a second book, Saturday Night Peter, in 2009.

While recording the audio version of his first memoirs, Peter told how he was inspired to write a third volume, but noted that the idea of the contents of his book wasn't a new one.

Plans: In a new interview to coincide with the release of the audiobook The Sound Of Laughter, the comedian, 48, told how he plans to tell all about his life working in TV (pictured 2017)

He explained: 'Within the first few chapters of recording, I was inspired to start to write a third book.

'I had the idea about ten years ago. All about working in TV. From when I started doing bit parts in Coronation Street right up to Car Share. Its been a real joy recalling the memories.'

He continued: 'Theres over twenty years of stories about filming series like Phoenix Nights and Max & Paddys Road To Nowhere.

'Appearing on chat shows like Parkinson, at the Queens Golden Jubilee and sharing letters from Ronnie Barker. We wrote to each other for years as pen-pals until he passed away.'

Time out: The book plans come four years after he stepped back from showbiz and cancelled a stand-up tour, citing 'unforeseen circumstances' (pictured with wife Susan in 2009)

On why he hasn't put pen to paper in over a decade, the TV star commented that 'life' got in the way of him starting the project.

He said: 'I suppose its like I said before life gets in the way. Becoming a dad changed my priorities.

'The trick is getting the balance right in your life. I think a lot of people were forced to realise that during the pandemic. I think a lot of peoples priorities will have changed forever now. Hopefully for the better.'

Reflection: During the interview, Peter also told how his 'priorities' had 'changed', especially since becoming a father

Meanwhile, Peter, who tries to keep his family out of the spotlight, told how he felt much more at ease having been able to record his audiobook from the comfort of his own home.

He explained: 'That made everything much more relaxed. I could record at my own pace and that made the whole experience much more fun as I was able to drift off the subject matter and have a different view about it all these years later.

'Id never read the book since I wrote it in 2006. It was fascinating, like reading something that somebody else had written. Although weirdly, even though I knew what was coming next, Id forgotten so much of what Id written.'

In August, Peter returned to the stage after four years away to perform a charity gig, comeback charity gig.

Busy: On why he hasn't put pen to paper in over a decade, the TV star commented that 'life' got in the way of him starting the project (pictured 2016)

Peter has since been largely out of the spotlight since a surprise appearance at a charity screening of his series Car Share in 2018, but made a brief return in January 2021 when he appeared on BBC Radio 2 to chat to Cat Deeley about his love of music, mix tapes and the musical Mamma Mia.

It comes after Kay stepped back from the public eye in 2017, when he cancelled a huge 14-month stand-up tour due to 'unforeseen family circumstances'.

The tour was due to have run across the UK and Ireland from April 2018 through to summer 2019 - and Kay had only announced it one month earlier.

Comfortable: Meanwhile, Peter, who tries to keep his family out of the spotlight, told how he felt much more at ease having been able to record his audiobook from the comfort of his own home

But he said on December 13, 2017: 'Due to unforeseen family circumstances, I deeply regret that I am having to cancel all of my upcoming work projects.

'This unfortunately includes my upcoming standup tour, Dance for Life shows and any outstanding live work commitments.

'My sincerest apologies. This decision has not been taken lightly and I'm sure you'll understand my family must always come first.'
Swiss luxury watch brand Vacheron Constantin has officially opened its long-awaited New York Flagship store just in time for NYFW.

And Katie Holmes was one of many stars in attendance at Wednesday evening's grand opening celebration in New York City.

The 42-year-old Dawson's Creek star stunned in a risque black halter dress with large cut-outs across the midsection and just below the bust.

Star-studded: Katie Holmes was one of many stars in attendance at Wednesday evening's Vacheron Constantin flagship store grand opening in New York City

Katie's daring number allowed her to showcase her impressively taut tummy, as well as her enviably smooth decolletage.

The skirt flowed down to the floor and featured ruching down the front for a bit of texture.

Holmes layered up her look with an oversized black button down shirt that she rolled up at the sleeves.

Adding a sporty edge to her ensemble, Katie slipped on a pair of bright white sneakers.

Texture: The skirt flowed down to the floor and featured ruching down the front for a bit of texture

Natural beauty: She had her brunette shoulder-length strands styled into a wavy half up, half down hairdo

Man of the hour: After working the grand opening's step-and-repeat photo op, Katie took a moment to mingle with Vacheron Constantin's new president Alexander Schmiedt (left)

She had her brunette shoulder-length strands styled into a wavy half up, half down hairdo.

The Batman Begins actress amplified her natural beauty with a subtle amount of makeup, while rocking a fun white manicure.

After working the grand opening's step-and-repeat photo op, Katie took a moment to mingle with Vacheron Constantin's new president Alexander Schmiedt.

Chanel Iman made jaws drop in a leather micro-mini dress with pleating on the skirt creating the shape of a rose.

Wow! Chanel Iman made jaws drop in a leather micro-mini dress with pleating on the skirt creating the shape of a rose

Sleek: Her raven tresses were neatly parted to one side and slicked back into a chic bun

The 30-year-old supermodel's eye-catching dress also featured a peek-a-boo cut-out that showcased her cleavage.

Her raven tresses were neatly parted to one side and slicked back into a chic bun.

Iman's accessories included a pair of chunky gold hoop earrings and an understated wrist watch, presumably by Vacheron Constantin.

Chic: Dorinda Medley looked chic in an oversized polkadot jumpsuit with a black suede belt to cinch in her waist

All smiles: Later, Dorinda was seen striking a friendly pose next to actor Eric Rutherford

Silky: Kelly Bensimon, also a former RHONY cast member, showed off her toned arms in a stunning silk halter top and matching trousers

She completed her ensemble with a pair of sexy knee-high black leather boots.

Dorinda Medley looked chic in an oversized polkadot jumpsuit with a black suede belt to cinch in her waist.

The RHONY alum gave her ensemble a pop of color by slipping her feet into a pair of red platform heels.

Later, Dorinda was seen striking a friendly pose next to actor Eric Rutherford, who looked undeniably handsome in a camouflage suit.

Leggy: Heidy De la Rosa put her best foot forward in a green midi dress with a dramatic leg slit

Bringing the drama: Supermodel Karen Elson clearly had a ton of fun getting gussied up for Wednesday's grand opening as she graced the carpet in an avant-garde gown

Kelly Bensimon, also a former RHONY cast member, showed off her toned arms in a stunning silk halter top and matching trousers.

Heidy De la Rosa put her best foot forward in a green midi dress with a dramatic leg slit.

The IMG model showed off her bright white pedicure in a pair of strappy heels.

Supermodel Karen Elson, 42, clearly had a ton of fun getting gussied up for Wednesday's grand opening as she graced the carpet in an avant-garde gown.

Disco: Michelle Hicks served 70s nostalgia in a ruched metallic mini dress in a stunning shade of purple

Golden girl: She also cradled her belongings in a gold clutch that matched her jewelry

Michelle Hicks served 70s nostalgia in a ruched metallic mini dress in a stunning shade of purple.

She also cradled her belongings in a gold clutch that matched her jewelry.

Alan Cumming put his eccentric taste on display by rocking a monochromatic number consisting of a suit jacket, vest, and trousers.

Eccentric: Alan Cumming put his eccentric taste on display by rocking a monochromatic number consisting of a suit jacket, vest, and trousers

Patterns: Actor Eric Rutherford and Younger star Nico Tortorella rocked bold patterned suits to Wednesday's star-studded soiree

The 56-year-old actor had a patterned scarf tied around his neck and rocked a pair of saddle shoes with red patent leather details.

Christian Siriano, who debuted his most recent collection at NYFW on Tuesday night, kept it simple in a black dress shirt with white stitching and a pair of fitted pants secured with a leather belt.

The 35-year-old designer rocked his signature specs and slipped his feet into some edgy black leather boots.

Vacheron Constantin's newest store is located at 28 East 57th Street and boasts 4,500-square-feet of floor space.

Fashion favorite: Christian Siriano, who debuted his most recent collection at NYFW on Tuesday night, kept it simple in a black dress shirt with white stitching and a pair of fitted pants secured with a leather belt
She is known for sharing moments from her burgeoning career in the fashion industry on her various social media accounts.

And on Wednesday, Lori Harvey appeared to be enjoying her time on the runway as she walked in the Dundas x Revolve show during New York Fashion Week.

The 24-year-old social media personality was seen posing for several shots during the event, and she was also seen spending time with Revolve Group, Inc's CEO, Raissa Gerona.

Enjoying the spotlight: Lori Harvey was seen walking in the Dundas x Revolve show during New York Fashion Week on Wednesday

Harvey sported a beautiful brown dress during the event, and its sleeveless top placed her chiseled arms on full display.

The bottom portion of her outfit also featured a large slit running up its left side, and the daughter of Steve Harvey took the opportunity to show off her sculpted leg.

She also wore an elegant pair of heeled shoes with slightly reflective straps that accentuated her dress while spending time on the runway.

Her beautiful dark brunette hair was styled into a bun for the show, with two strands falling down onto opposite sides of her face.

Turning heads: The social media personality was seen wearing a beautiful brown dress that showed off her toned arms

Ooh la la! Her gorgeous dark brunette hair was mainly tied back into a bun with two strands running down opposite sides of her face

During the event, Harvey shared a duo of videos that had been taken while she was being photographed on the runway.

The first of the two showed her enjoying the coastal breeze that blew through her hair as she struck a few poses.

Her second clip featured her turning her backside to the camera as she spent time at the show.

During an interview with Bustle, the model spoke about working with various brands and expressed that she did her research before signing on to promote a product.

Hanging out: At one point, Harvey was seen spending time with Revolve Group, Inc's CEO Raissa Gerona

'I think with anything that I want to do, I want to make sure that I'm very knowledgeable about every aspect that goes into it,' she said.

Harvey also pointed out that she was not interested in blindly becoming a spokesperson for a product before properly vetting every proposal.

'I never really wanted to just be the face of something and put my name on something that I don't really know the behind the scenes of what it is or what the material is or what the ingredients are, where it's manufactured,' she said.

The social media figure then spoke about receiving harsh words from her detractors, although she noted that she was not interested in getting into confrontations.

Doing research: During an interview with Bustle, Harvey expressed that, before signing on to promote a product, 'I want to make sure that I'm very knowledgeable about every aspect that goes into it'

'I think they get from me that I try to just not let any type of negativity or rumors or anything like that make me stoop down to that level and go back and forth with it or whatever,' she stated.

Harvey pointed out that, when faced with adversity, she attempts to 'maintain my position of I know who I am, I know what's going on.'

The model concluded by expressing that she prefers to remain calm and collected as a persona and reserved with regard to her personal life.

'I just try to stay up here and take the high road in every situation...because I am private, so I like to just give enough,' she remarked.
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Russian bombshell Irina Shayk put her ample assets on quite the display to attend the Bulgari x B.Zero1 bash in Manhattan's Meatpacking District on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old former VS/SI Swimsuit stunner squeezed her waist and cleavage into a tiny orange PVC corset bodysuit while posing at The Standard, High Line during New York Fashion Week.

The metallic corset was so tight Irina looked like she had trouble breathing before she checked out the Italian accessories brand's SS/22 collection.

Busty beauty: Russian bombshell Irina Shayk put her ample assets on quite the display to attend the Bulgari x B.Zero1 bash in Manhattan's Meatpacking District on Wednesday

Her cups runneth over: The 35-year-old former VS/SI Swimsuit stunner squeezed her waist and cleavage into a tiny orange PVC corset bodysuit while posing at The Standard, High Line during New York Fashion Week

Hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg coiffed Shayk's wet-looking bob wig featuring fringe and make-up artist Georgi Sandev brought out her natural beauty.

The former flame of Kanye West paired her painful-looking top with grey baggy cargo pants and nude stilettos selected by stylist Corey T. Stokes.

Irina also showcased a curious diamond and silver band on her left ring finger, which might have very well been Bulgari.

Shayk (born Shaykhlislamova) beamed while being trailed by a Cruella wig-wearing fan in the background.

Ouch! The metallic corset was so tight Irina looked like she had trouble breathing before she checked out the Italian accessories brand's SS/22 collection

She did not cut her actual hair! Hairstylist Jacob Rozenberg coiffed Shayk's wet-looking bob wig featuring fringe and make-up artist Georgi Sandev brought out her natural beauty

Whale tail: The former flame of Kanye West paired her painful-looking top with grey baggy cargo pants and nude stilettos selected by stylist Corey T. Stokes

THAT finger: Irina also showcased a curious diamond and silver band on her left ring finger, which might have very well been Bulgari

Epic photobomb! Shayk (born Shaykhlislamova) beamed while being trailed by a Cruella wig-wearing fan in the background

Holding hands: The dimpled brunette - who mothered four-year-old daughter Lea De Seine with her ex-fiancee Bradley Cooper - was joined at the Bulgari bash by her loyal Lions manager, Ali Kavoussi

The dimpled brunette - who mothered four-year-old daughter Lea De Seine with her ex-fiancee Bradley Cooper - was joined at the Bulgari bash by her loyal Lions manager, Ali Kavoussi.

Meanwhie, fresh off her split with Scott Disick, Amelia Gray Hamlin stunned in a strapless striped tube dress at the same party.

Make-up artist Karmen Haik brought out the 20-year-old Women 360 Management Model's bushy brows and lashes while hairstylist Laura Rugetti coiffed her waist-length extensions.

Amelia - who boasts 1M Instagram followers - shared a selfie before the party of her pouting in front of a background of her own face.

Newly single! Meanwhie, fresh off her split with Scott Disick, Amelia Gray Hamlin stunned in a strapless striped tube dress at the same party

Ready for her close-up: Make-up artist Karmen Haik brought out the 20-year-old Women 360 Management Model's bushy brows and lashes while hairstylist Laura Rugetti coiffed her waist-length extensions

Werrrk! Amelia - who boasts 1M Instagram followers - shared a selfie before the party of her pouting in front of a background of her own face

Tongue out: Hamlin is the genetically-blessed youngest daughter of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Rinna and Emmy-nominated actor Harry Hamlin

Catwalker: Since NYFW officially kicked off Tuesday, the Los Angeles native's already walked in the Dundas x Revolve and the Bronx & Banco runway presentations

It's over: Amelia made headlines on Tuesday for ending her 10-month May-December romance with the 38-year-old KUWTK alum and father-of-three (R, posted May 26)

Hamlin is the genetically-blessed youngest daughter of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Rinna and Emmy-nominated actor Harry Hamlin.

Since NYFW officially kicked off Tuesday, the Los Angeles native's already walked in the Dundas x Revolve and the Bronx & Banco runway presentations.

Amelia made headlines on Tuesday for ending her 10-month May-December romance with the 38-year-old KUWTK alum and father-of-three - according to People.

Also going strapless at the Bulgari bash was Love Spreads star Eiza Gonzalez clad in a black tube top and grey pleated pants with matching pointy heels.

Gamine: Also going strapless at the Bulgari bash was Love Spreads star Eiza Gonzalez clad in a black tube top and grey pleated pants with matching pointy heels

Glitterati: The Mexican-born 31-year-old slicked her brunette mane into a perky ponytail fastened with a black bow and her bronzed complexion was fully contoured

Boss man: Eiza - whose three newest Instagram posts are of her wearing Bulgari - made sure to pose with the luxury brand's North America president Daniel Paltridge (R)

Not a neat freak: Earlier that day, Gonzalez appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show where she confessed she leaves dirty clothes all over her bathroom for her 'cleaning lady Karito' to pick up

The Mexican-born 31-year-old slicked her brunette mane into a perky ponytail fastened with a black bow and her bronzed complexion was fully contoured.

Eiza - whose three newest Instagram posts are of her wearing Bulgari - made sure to pose with the luxury brand's North America president Daniel Paltridge.

Earlier that day, Gonzalez appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show where she confessed she leaves dirty clothes all over her bathroom for her 'cleaning lady Karito' to pick up.

Portuguese bombshell Sara Sampaio opted for a sleek braided updo and striking red lip for the NYFW festivities.

She means business: Portuguese bombshell Sara Sampaio opted for a sleek braided updo and striking red lip for the NYFW festivities

Menswear look: The 30-year-old Lions Model took the plunge in a black pantsuit featuring lace detail on the waist and embellishments down the pants

BFFs: Sara wrapped an arm around her good friend and fellow Lions model Shanina Shaik (R)

Mermaid: The Australian 30-year-old was certainly a golden girl in her dramatic spaghetti-strapped trumpet gown

Hitting theaters in her native Portugal on October 7! Sampaio will next portray principled journalist Marta in Portuguese filmmaker Bruno Gascon's drama Sombra starring Ana Moreira (R) and Joana Ribeiro

The 30-year-old Lions Model took the plunge in a black pantsuit featuring lace detail on the waist and embellishments down the pants.

Sara wrapped an arm around her good friend and fellow Lions model Shanina Shaik.

The Australian 30-year-old was certainly a golden girl in her dramatic spaghetti-strapped trumpet gown.

Sampaio will next portray principled journalist Marta in Portuguese filmmaker Bruno Gascon's drama Sombra starring Ana Moreira and Joana Ribeiro.

Drip: Four-time Grammy-nominated R&B duo Chloe x Halle both wore rhinestones in their hair for the jewelry soiree

Two tone: 21-year-old Halle Bailey (L) and her 23-year-old sister Chloe (R) also coordinated in matching slip dresses in white and black, respectively

Entertaining the fashion crowd: The Atlanta-born Beyonce protegees closed out the night by performing songs like their latest single, Ungodly Hour

Coming out next year! Halle is especially on the verge of superstardom, having headlined Rob Marshall's star-studded remake of Disney's The Little Mermaid

The film, based on a true story, will hit theaters in her native Portugal on October 7.

Four-time Grammy-nominated R&B duo Chloe x Halle both wore rhinestones in their hair for the jewelry soiree.

21-year-old Halle Bailey and her 23-year-old sister Chloe also coordinated in matching slip dresses in white and black, respectively.

The Atlanta-born Beyonce protegees closed out the night by performing songs like their latest single, Ungodly Hour.

Speaking of sisters! Ruby Aldridge (L) joined her famous big sister Lily (R) at the event where they also coordinated in white and black attire

Gent: Looking dapper in a black suit was Isabella Rossellini's son Roberto, who's named after her famous filmmaker father

Lovely ladies: Other glamorous attendees included (from L-R) IMG Model Martha Hunt, Schmigadoon! actress Dove Cameron, and controversial Music star Maddie Ziegler

Halle is especially on the verge of superstardom, having headlined Rob Marshall's star-studded remake of Disney's The Little Mermaid coming out next year.

Speaking of sisters, Ruby Aldridge joined her famous big sister Lily at the event where they also coordinated in white and black attire.

Looking dapper in a black suit was Isabella Rossellini's son Roberto, who's named after her famous filmmaker father.

Other glamorous attendees included IMG Model Martha Hunt, Schmigadoon! actress Dove Cameron, and controversial Music star Maddie Ziegler.
Chris Hemsworth is fronting a new campaign for Dubai tourism.

The 38-year-old actor, best known for playing Thor in the blockbuster Marvel movies, is the face of the campaign which rolls out next month until March 2022.

The advertisement shows Hemsworth exploring the city's most iconic sights, including the Exhibition Centre, the Burj Khalifa skyscraper and Jumeirah Beach Park.

New campaign: Chris Hemsworth (centre) is fronting a new campaign for Dubai tourism

'You want to see the future? Come on. Let's ride the metro. This is Dubai and this is the world's greatest show,' he says.

'Opportunity, mobility, sustainability and the finest examples of human ability.'

The advertisement was directed by American special effects artist and filmmaker Robert Stromberg, whose credits include Avatar and Alice in Wonderland.

Campaign: The 38-year-old actor, best known for playing Thor in the blockbuster Marvel movies, is the face of the campaign which rolls out next month until March 2022

It comes after Hemsworth reportedly declined an offer to appear in a star-studded advertising campaign promoting the Covid-19 vaccine in Australia.

The Byron Bay local was asked by the federal government in June to take part in the campaign featuring some of the country's most famous figures.

In return, the government agreed to let Hemsworth 'jump the queue' to receive a speedy vaccination of his choice, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

Tourism: The advertisement shows Hemsworth exploring the city's most iconic sights, including the Exhibition Centre, the Burj Khalifa skyscraper and Jumeirah Beach Park

At the time, Hemsworth was reportedly trying to secure himself a jab as quickly as possible so he could start working on a secret film project.

He was apparently 'reluctant' to get the AstraZeneca vaccine, yet could not access a Pfizer shot in his home town of Byron Bay, the newspaper claimed.

In the end, Hemsworth reportedly turned down the government's offer and sourced a vaccine 'elsewhere', without promoting the jab as part of a campaign.
Emma Hayes has revealed she lost her hair salon in a fire that tore through a Brisbane shopping complex in the early hours of Thursday morning.

In a series on posts on social media on Thursday, the 34-year-old former Farmer Wants A Wife star said she was 'devastated' and 'absolutely heartbroken'.

'Yes it's true, my/our salon has burnt down. I'll be in touch with everyone soon! We need your love!' she wrote on Facebook.

Destroyed: Emma Hayes has revealed she lost her hair salon in a fire that tore through a Brisbane shopping complex in the early hours of Thursday morning

Emma later thanked her followers for reaching out, and said she'd been left 'absolutely heartbroken' by the blaze.

'We are devastated! I am so grateful to my amazing team and our community! And that no one was hurt,' she later added.

'Thank you for all the kind words and offers of salons to operate in, we need all the help we can get at this time.

'In perspective a building can be rebuilt. I feel extremely sad and I can't stop shaking but I know with all of my people I'll be okay!' she wrote

Hard times: According to a report by The Courier Mail on Thursday, at least 10 businesses were 'heavily damaged' in the fire

Under control: A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said the fire had spread through the shopping complex's 'connected roofing' and was extinguished by 8.30am

Extensive damage: Local businesses Melin Vietnamese and Chinese, Elemental Connection, Calaba Hair Design, Chemist Warehouse, Tru-Brew, My Physio, QML Pathology, Workways, Redlands Medical Centre and the Colonic Clinic were all damaged in the fire

Safety first: Although the fire was extinguished, 11 fire crews remained on the scene to ensure there were no more 'hot spots'

'Even though this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to face as a business owner I know we will be okay!'

Sharing a series of photos and videos from the devastating fire, Emma revealed the blaze had started at around 4.34am, calling it 'a day I'll never forget'.

'Words will never explain how I feel, these pics are from my accountant who was on the way to his office. Corey, I don't know what I would do without you. I don't think I would believe anyone else if they called me with that news,' she captioned the post.

'We are devastated! I am so grateful to my amazing team and our community! And that no one was hurt,' she later added

Witness: The owner of the Vietnamese restaurant, Monica Chen, told The Courier Mail that the blaze was 'really terrifying'

Distraught: Business owners were seen comforting each other as they stood on the footpath near the charred building

Emergency: The blaze broke out at a nearby Chemist Warehouse at around 4.25am, with 23 fire crews rushing to the scene on Old Cleveland Road in Capalaba

Bad timing: Emma's hair salon suffered substantial damage, just days after she announced a renovation

'He was the first to call me, I was at Ronald McDonald house for the night looking after one of my darling friend's little boy, while she was in the children's hospital with her baby girl who is receiving chemotherapy.

'In perspective a building can be rebuilt. I feel extremely sad and I can't stop shaking but I know with all of my people I'll be okay!'

According to a report by The Courier Mail on Thursday, at least 10 businesses were 'heavily damaged' in the fire.

'We've been bursting to share this news with you and the day has finally arrived! C'ba is getting a GLOW UP!' she wrote on Instagram on Sunday

'A seven-year dream in the making, we're finally kicking off our biggest project to date - our BRAND NEW SALON in Capalaba! Wooo!' she announced shortly before the fire

Up in smoke: In a series on posts on social media on Thursday, the 34-year-old former Farmer Wants A Wife star said she was 'devastated' and 'absolutely heartbroken'

'Yes it's true, my/our salon has burnt down. I'll be in touch with everyone soon! We need your love!' she wrote on Facebook

The blaze broke out at a nearby Chemist Warehouse at around 4.25am, with 23 fire crews rushing to the scene on Old Cleveland Road in Capalaba.

A Queensland Fire and Emergency Services spokesman said the fire had spread through the shopping complex's 'connected roofing' and was extinguished by 8.30am.

Emma - who appeared on last year's season of FWAW - had only revealed five days earlier that she was in the process of 'building my dream salon'.

'Even though this is one of the hardest things I've ever had to face as a business owner I know we will be okay!' she wrote on Facebook

'Thank you for all the kind words and offers of salons to operate in, we need all the help we can get at this time,' she wrote on Facebook

Going up in flames: Sharing a series of photos and videos from the devastating fire, Emma revealed the blaze had started at around 4.34am, calling it 'a day I'll never forget'

'We've been bursting to share this news with you and the day has finally arrived! C'ba is getting a GLOW UP!' she wrote on Instagram on Sunday.

'A seven-year dream in the making, we're finally kicking off our biggest project to date - our BRAND NEW SALON in Capalaba! Wooo! Our new space is undergoing a total transformation so you can experience C'ba like never before!

'We can't wait to bring you along for this exciting new journey and share more details with you about our new salon and end of year opening celebrations in true C'ba style!'
Proenza Schouler debuted its highly-anticipated Spring Summer 2022 collection at New York Fashion Week on Wednesday.

And supermodel Emily Ratajkowski was spotted sitting front row at the luxury brand's runway show held on the waterfront at Little Island.

The 30-year-old stunned in a curve-clinging wrap dress that exposed her toned legs.

Elite: Emily Ratajkowski was spotted sitting front row at the Proenza Schouler runway show at New York Fashion Week on Wednesday evening; Emily pictured with Tommy Dorfman (right)

Emily's earth-toned garment had a piece of gold hardware keeping the skirt portion in place as she arrived to the show's venue.

She styled her dress with some knee-high crocodile skin boots and a beige designer handbag.

The Blurred Lines video vixen's flowing brunette hair was worn down and styled in sleek strands.

That's a wrap! The 30-year-old stunned in a curve-clinging wrap dress that exposed her toned legs

Perfect pairing: She styled her dress with some knee-high crocodile skin boots and a beige designer handbag

Slightly drifting from her signature 'no makeup' makeup look, Ratajkowski played with graphic liner and muted her plump pout with a touch of nude lipstick.

Prior to taking her seat front row, Emily was caught putting on a runway show of her own on the streets of NYC.

She was joined at the fashion show by pal Tommy Dorfman, who put on a leggy display in a maroon gown featuring an asymmetrical strap that wrapped around the 29-year-old actress' neck.

Infectious: Emily let out a laugh while chatting with Tommy and another runway show attendee

Front row: Emily mingled pre-runway show with Tommy, as well as DJ Diplo (pictured right)

Stunning: Tommy Dorfman (center) put on a leggy display in a maroon gown featuring an asymmetrical strap that wrapped around the 29-year-old actress' neck

Her jaw-length blonde tresses were meticulously straightened and she amplified her features with a subtle amount of makeup.

Diplo was also seated front row at the star-studded fashion show, rocking a funky striped shirt and a pair of fitted black slacks.

The 42-year-old DJ, known for his questionable fashion taste, completed his ensemble with a pair of Birkenstock sandals.

On her way: Prior to taking her seat front row, Emily was caught putting on a runway show of her own on the streets of NYC

Sleek: The Blurred Lines video vixen's flowing brunette hair was worn down and styled in sleek strands

Connected: Emily had her phone at the ready while making her way towards the fashion show

Experimenting: Slightly drifting from her signature 'no makeup' makeup look, Ratajkowski played with graphic liner and muted her plump pout with a touch of nude lipstick

Vogue Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, also gazed on at Proenza Schouler's stylish offerings from the front row.

The renown British-American journalist, 71, erred on the side of caution during the show by rocking a face mask throughout.

She sported her signature blunt bob haircut and modeled a flowing patterned dress with accordion sleeves.

Major: Vogue Editor-in-Chief, Anna Wintour, also gazed on at Proenza Schouler's stylish offerings from the front row

Signature look: She sported her signature blunt bob haircut and modeled a flowing patterned dress with accordion sleeves

Wintour, sitting with her legs crossed, paired her dress with some chunky snakeskin booties.

She was joined by Welsh model Grace Coddington, who donned a black wrap dress and styled her flaming red hair in a side part.

Proenza Schouler is a beloved New York-based luxury brand founded by designers Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez in 2002.

Safety first: The renown British-American journalist, 71, erred on the side of caution during the show by rocking a face mask throughout

In good company: She was joined by Welsh model Grace Coddington, who donned a black wrap dress and styled her flaming red hair in a side part

Gigi Hadid was the brand's featured model, gracing the runway in an avant-garde dress and vest combo.

According to the official NYFW website, those attending the shows are 'required to show proof of full-course COVID-19 vaccination, consistent with state and federal law.'

As for masks, New York Fashion week is only 'strongly recommending mask wearing indoors at all times, except when eating or drinking, or when models are walking the runway.'

Big debut: Proenza Schouler debuted its highly-anticipated Spring Summer 2022 collection at New York Fashion Week; Gigi Hadid pictured
Karl Stefanovic and his wife Jasmine Yarborough have listed their home on Sydney's lower north shore for rent.

The Today host, 46, and his shoe designer wife, 37, purchased the three-bedroom property in March for $3.2million.

According to Realestate.com.au, the couple are now offering the property for rent at $1800 per week and a bond of $7200.

On the market! Today host Karl Stefanovic and his wife Jasmine Yarborough (both pictured) have listed their $3.2million home on Sydney's lower north shore for rent at $1800 per week

The property boasts views over Castlecrag's north escarpment and is close to the village's cafes and shops.

It includes a self-contained unit with a separate entry and its own bathroom.

Karl and Jasmine also own a holiday home on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, which they bought for $3.6million in January last year and travel to frequently.

Location: The property boasts views over Castlecrag's north escarpment and is close to the village's cafes and shops

Karl and Jasmine - along with their one-year-old daughter, Harper - divide their time between Sydney and Queensland.

The Yarborough family is based in the Sunshine State, while Karl also began his journalism career there.

The couple married in December 2018 in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

Sold! The Today host and his shoe designer wife purchased the three-bedroom property in March for $3.2million

Karl previously rented a home in Sydney's affluent harbourside suburb of Mosman for $3,250 per week.

He also constructed a waterfront mansion in Cremorne with his first wife, Cassandra Thorburn.

The former couple paid an $800,000 deposit on the 650-square-metre block in June 2016, and later sold the property for $9million following their split.
Physical is arguably Olivia Newton-John's biggest hit, having topped the Billboard Hot 100 for ten weeks back in the early 80s.

But the Australian pop icon revealed she actually had second thoughts about the iconic song at the time of its release.

The 72-year-old told the Australian Women's Weekly on Thursday that she believed it was 'too raunchy' for audiences at time.

Ahead of the times: Olivia Newton-John had second thoughts about releasing her hit single Physical, calling 'too raunchy' at the time

She recalled: 'I called my manager, Roger Davies [an Aussie who went on to manage Tina Turner and Pink], and said, "Roger, I'm afraid I've gone too far with this song. I think it's too raunchy."'

'He said, "It's too late. It's gone to radio and it's going up the charts." And of course it was one of the biggest songs I ever had. So, sometimes you've got to let go of the fear and just go with it.'

While she imagined her parents disapproved of the steamy track and its music video, the song gave her the chance to reinvent her image, like many pop stars today.

It's a hit! She said that she told her manager Roger Davies she was having second thoughts, but he told her it was 'too late' and already a hit. Olivia said: 'So, sometimes you've got to let go of the fear and just go with it'

Olivia said she has no regrets about the song and embraced everything that came with her controversial hit single.

Part of that controversy was being banned by several radio stations in the US state of Utah, which is known for its very conservative Mormon community, according to EW.

The song's risque lyrics - 'There's nothing left to talk about, unless it's horizontally' - proved too much for Utah locals.

'You haven't made it until you're banned!' She said she has no regrets about the song and embraced everything that came with her hit single. Part of that was being banned by radio stations in the US state of Utah, which is known for its very conservative Mormon community

She told the AWW: 'I was banned in Utah, which was very exciting. You haven't made it until you're banned, right?'

Physical won the coveted in the number one spot on the Billboard charts in November 1981 and stayed there for ten weeks.

The iconic music video was a defining moment in '80s fitness culture and won her a Grammy Award for Video of the Year in 1983.

Iconic: The music video was a defining moment in '80s fitness culture and won her a Grammy Award for Video of the Year in 1983. The video featured her in tight-fitting activewear exercising alongside overweight men who then transform into muscular guys

The video featured her in tight-fitting activewear exercising alongside overweight men who then transform into muscular guys.

Olivia found early success in Australia, where she was raised, and in the UK, where she was born.

But she shot to fame in the film adaptation of the musical Grease in 1978, starring alongside John Travolta.
Married At First Sight Australia star Tamara Joy put on a leggy display in a cream ruched dress on Thursday as she headed to Chelsea to get her face filler topped-up.

The TV star, 32, sported a bronzed tan in the thigh-skimming mini which came complete with a plunging neckline.

Tamara headed to Simply clinic to get the cosmetic procedure.

Strutting her stuff: Married At First Sight Australia star Tamara Joy put on a leggy display in a cream ruched dress on Thursday as she headed to Chelsea to get her face filler topped-up

Tamara accentuated her long legs with black open toe heels and carried her essentials in a small black handbag.

Her long brunette locks were styled in bouncy curls and her glam make-up enhanced her stunning features.

Tamama accessorised with large gold earrings and oozed confidence as she strutted down the street to the beauty clinic.

Stunning: The TV star, 32, sported a bronzed tan in the thigh-skimming mini which came complete with a plunging neckline

Gorgeous: She paired her ensemble with black open toe heels and carried her essentials in a small black handbag

Wow! Her long brunette locks were styled in bouncy curls and her glam make-up enhanced her stunning features

The Aussie stunner told The Sun recently she was planning to stay in Britain 'long-term' to carve out a media career.

'I have some work coming up, just little bits and pieces really,' she said.

It comes after she broke up with her OnlyFans model boyfriend Thomas Powell.

Newly-single Tamara announced the split during an Instagram Q&A last month, revealing the pair had parted ways after just three months.

Filler: Tamara sat in the aesthetician's chair ahead of the procedure

Procedure: Tamara talked to the owner of the clinic during the consultation

It's over! Tamara (left) has broken up with her OnlyFans model boyfriend Thomas Powell (right). Pictured during a recent holiday in Greece

'No, Thomas and I are not dating anymore,' she said when asked about her relationship status.

The brunette went on to say she was holding up okay following their break-up, and will continue living in the UK for the time being.

Meanwhile, a source close to Tamara told Daily Mail Australia the couple decided to call it quits because they both wanted different things from their relationship.

'They were always fighting and arguing. It was just very toxic. Tamara felt like she was always walking on eggshells around him,' they claimed.

Tamara's romance with the former Love Island star, 29, was only confirmed at the start of July.

She has been living it up in Europe for the past few months, after fleeing Australia on a work permit before half the country was plunged into Covid lockdown.
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Tom Cruise resumed filming for Mission Impossible 7 on Thursday, as he parachuted from a helicopter in the Lake District.

The actor, 59, who has faced numerous delays to production of the spy film due to the Covid pandemic, proved that no stunt is too big as he completed the same jump four times to ensure director Christopher McQuarrie landed the perfect shot.

This is just the latest in an array of stunts that Tom has performed for the latest Mission Impossible film, with the actor previously seen clinging to a train for a daring scene in Yorkshire.

Scroll down for video

Daredevil: Tom Cruise resumed filming for Mission Impossible 7 on Thursday, as he parachuted from a helicopter in the Lake District

Tom was dressed in his character Ethan Hunt's full spy attire as he clung to the parachute while it floated onto the fields below.

The Hollywood star was seen jumping from a helicopter high above, with onlookers revealing the stunt had to be performed multiple times.

For the dramatic scene Tom was sent hurtling into the uneven Lake District terrain before safely landing in a field, with crew members waiting in a car to take him to the next filming destination.

Going down! The actor proved that no stunt is too big as he completed the same jump four times to ensure director Christopher McQuarrie landed the perfect shot

Going up! Tom was seen flying into the air over the countryside in preparation for filming

Jump! The star channelled Ethan Hunt as he launched himself onto the fields below, with his parachute opening seconds later

Leap of faith: The Hollywood star was seen jumping from a helicopter high above, with onlookers revealing the stunt had to be performed multiple times

He made it! Footage of the scene also showed Tom, who has long been known for performing his own stunts, safely making it back to land

Nearly there: Withing minutes Tom was back on the ground after finishing the daring jump

It comes after Mission: Impossible 7 filming was reportedly paused again in June due to a positive Covid test with crew members speculating it could be Tom.

Despite there being 'no proof' to back up the idle talk, it has been claimed that people are gossiping it could be Tom due to his alleged absence on set.

The actor was previously said to have been forced to self-isolate for two weeks after 14 people on the UK set of the film tested positive for coronavirus.

He made it! For the dramatic scene Tom was sent hurtling into the uneven Lake District terrain before safely landing in a field

Need a hand? He enlisted the help of the film's crew once he was safely landed back on the ground

A bit thirsty? He took a sip from his water bottle to re-hydrate after the daring leap into the unknown

Jumping! No stranger to performing his own jaw-dropping stunts, the screen star landed on the grass with the help of his parachute

Huge drop: The acclaimed star made a safe landing onto the grass below after completing the jaw-dropping jump

Grand project: Tom appeared to be in good spirits as he completed the filmed jump with one of the film's crew

Drama: It comes after Mission: Impossible 7 filming was reportedly paused again in June due to a positive Covid test with crew members speculating it could be Tom

The actor was said to have spent a day filming with four female dancers as they shot scenes in a nightclub for the upcoming movie, who later tested positive.

Filming of the new instalment previously took place at Longcross Studios in Chertsey, Surrey, and production was halted and the 60-member team self-isolated amid the positive tests.

Mission: Impossible 7 filming has been hit with several set backs and delays amid the Covid pandemic, with it shooting on location in Italy, the UK and Norway.

In December it was reported that five crew members had quit after Tom launched into two rants.

Delays: Despite there being 'no proof' to back up the idle talk, it has been claimed that people are gossiping it could be Tom due to his alleged absence on set

Concerns: The actor was previously said to have been forced to self-isolate for two weeks after 14 people on the UK set of the film tested positive for coronavirus

Issues: Filming of the new instalment previously took place at Longcross Studios in Chertsey, Surrey, and production was halted and the 60-member team self-isolated

Held back: Mission: Impossible 7 filming has been hit with several set backs and delays amid the Covid pandemic, with it shooting on location in Italy, the UK and Norway

More drama: In December it was reported that five crew members had quit after Tom launched into two rants

The actor was said to have given staff a dressing down after he caught them breaking UK Covid rules at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, Hertfordshire.

A source claimed after news of the first outburst was made public, there was 'more anger' at the already 'tense' production.

An insider said: 'Tension has been building for months and this was the final straw. Since it became public there has been more anger and several staff have walked.

'But Tom just can't take any more after all the lengths they have gone to just to keep filming at all. He's upset others aren't taking it as seriously as him.'

Raging: The actor was said to have given staff a dressing down after he caught them breaking UK Covid rules at Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden, Hertfordshire

Screen star: A source claimed after news of the first outburst was made public, there was 'more anger' at the already 'tense' production

Tense: An insider said: 'Tension has been building for months and this was the final straw. Since it became public there has been more anger and several staff have walked'

Angry: The source added: 'But Tom just can't take any more after all the lengths they have gone to just to keep filming at all. He's upset others aren't taking it as seriously as him'

Guilty: They added that it was Tom who feels responsible for the production after putting so much time and money into ensuring precautions are in place so the team can film

Clashing: It was previously reported that the Hollywood star scolded workers who flouted social distancing rules while filming at Warner Bros. Studios

They added that it was Tom who feels responsible for the production after putting so much time and money into ensuring precautions are in place so the team can film.

It was previously reported that the Hollywood star scolded workers who flouted social distancing rules while filming at Warner Bros. Studios.

MailOnline contacted Tom's representatives for further comment at the time.

Mission Impossible 7 is currently set for release on September 30, 2022.
Kate Beckinsale wowed in a sheer white lace boho style dress and fishnet tights in a smouldering new snap shared on Thursday.

The Underworld actress, 48, posed for the stunning snap on the Las Vegas set of her new movie Prisoner's Daughter, which she has been teasing online.

She showed off her lithe legs by pulling up the hem of her dress in the snap, which she shared with her 4.9m followers with the caption: 'Oops #Vegas'.

Stunning: Kate Beckinsale wowed in a sheer white lace boho style dress and fishnet tights on Thursday

Kate completed the stunning ensemble with chunky biker boots and accessorised with a flower crown which donned a large black flower.

The star added a bit more glam to the look my layering silver beaded bracelets and a statement chunky necklace.

Her brunette locks were styled in beachy waves and her glam make-up included a dark smokey eye.

Kate has been suffering through Covid tests and 104F-degree summer heat in order to shoot the drama in Nevada alongside Brian Cox, Ernie Hudson, and Tyson Ritter.

Trailer selfie! New flick: Beckinsale has been suffering through Covid tests and 104F-degree summer heat in order to shoot the family drama in Nevada alongside Brian Cox, Ernie Hudson, and Tyson Ritter (Kate is pictured on-set on Sunday)

Funny: Kate captioned a silly snap of herself being sat upon by producer Jarret Thomas Sackman (L): 'We work weekends'

In the show, the London-born Brit plays a mother-of-one who reconnects with her violent ex-con father (Cox).

Production commenced last week on Prisoner's Daughter, which is being directed by Catherine Hardwicke and produced by Jarret Thomas Sackman.

Kate also executive produced and played discredited journalist Beth Baker in Trent O'Donnell's 10-episode dark comedy Guilty Party, which premieres October 14 on Paramount+.

Prisoners Daughter: In Prisoner's Daughter, the London-born Brit plays a mother-of-one who reconnects with her violent ex-con father (Cox)

Kate replaced Isla Fisher back in December for the role in the series, which was originally supposed to be released on CBS All Access.

Kate shares her 22-year-old daughter Lily Mo with her former The Seagull castmate Michael Sheen, who she dated for eight years before splitting in 2003.

Lily was last believed to be enrolled at NYU to follow in her famous folks' acting footsteps.

Kate recently told Rollacoaster magazine: 'I had Lily really early in my career. I remember a few years ago I was like, "I wonder what it feels like to blow up in Hollywood?"...

Twilight helmer: Production commenced last week on Prisoner's Daughter, which is being directed by Catherine Hardwicke (pictured in 2019)

'And then I was like, "Oh, I guess I did my version of that." I just wasn't aware at the time because I was so focused on Lily that I kind of missed my moment'.

'I was so distracted by that, it was absolutely my first priority, and I do think it probably affected my career. There were certain places I didn't really want to go because it was hard for me with Lily...

'Or I'd make a decision to do a movie because it was in LA, I didn't have the luxury of asking myself, "What creatively do I want to do the most?" Sometimes you have to dovetail the things that work for your family.'

Premieres October 14 on Paramount+! The London-born Brit also produced and played discredited journalist Beth Baker in Trent O'Donnell's 10-episode dark comedy Guilty Party

She admitted: 'I missed out on having a wild social life in my twenties and thirties but actually, I think I really got lucky in terms of having Lily as a kind of shield, so that I was just focused on my work...

'People would ask me, "What's the LA scene like?" and I'd say, "I have absolutely no idea." I knew what Gymboree was like, but I had no experience of the LA scene, and I think that was actually incredibly helpful.'

The New College drop-out divorced her Underworld director Len Wiseman in 2019 after 11 years of marriage.

Kate has also previously romanced Canadian rocker Goody Grace as well as comedians Pete Davidson, Jack Whitehall, and Matt Rife.
She has stormed the catwalk for a plethora of high-fashion brands.

And Helena Christensen, 52, showcased her model physique in a black satin playsuit on Wednesday as she stepped out in the Big Apple for New York Fashion Week.

The catwalk legend put on a leggy display in her chic one-piece as she strolled through the city during her evening out.

Leggy look: Helena Christensen, 52, showcased her model physique in a black satin playsuit on Wednesday as she stepped out in the Big Apple for New York Fashion Week

Helena rounded off the look with black pumps, complete with gold detailing, a sequin clutch and a pendant necklace.

She styled her chestnut locks in effortless waves and enhanced her age-defying complexion with a light palette of make-up.

Helena made sure to remind fans of her humble beginnings as she took to Instagram in August to share a slew of throwback snaps.

Documenting her pre-teen years, the 52-year-old began with a sweet shot of herself posing in front of an unmistakably 1970s curtain, and joked her fashion sense was always 'on point.'

Stunning: The catwalk legend put on a leggy display in her chic one-piece as she worked her best angles during her evening out

Strike a pose: Helena rounded off the look with black pumps, complete with gold detailing, a sequin clutch and a pendant necklace

Plenty to smile about: The brunette beauty smiled for photos during her night out

'Fashion was always on point': Helena shared an adorable string of throwback snaps to her pre-teen years in 1970s Copenhagen to Instagram in August

The Victoria's Secret Angel joked, 'Whatevers goin on in these pics one things for sure, fashion was always on point [sic],' alongside her post.

Clasping her hands together, Helena wore a burgundy dress over a white shirt, which she paired with an almost knee-high pair of khaki socks in her opening shot.

Sending her followers even further back in time to her pre-school years, the future photographer posed in a chic orange dressing gown alongside a doll in a pushchair.

In the following photo, the tot donned a red long-sleeve tee to blow out her birthday cake candles, complete with Danish flags on top.

Having a blast: Sending her followers back in time to her pre-school years, the future photographer posed in a chic orange dressing gown alongside a doll in a pushchair

Big day: In a following shot, the tot donned a red long-sleeve tee to blow out her birthday cake candles, complete with Danish flags on top

Adorable: A young Helena encapsulated the 1970s fashion movement in a photo where she beamed in a head-to-toe white long-sleeved dress

A young Helena encapsulated the 1970s fashion movement in a snap where she beamed in a head-to-toe white long-sleeved dress.

Her mother Elsa looked gazed lovingly towards the future Miss Universe 1986 champion while wearing a yellow polo-neck.

In subsequent photos, the Vogue coverstar smiled for a group pic alongside her sister Anita and looked like she was having a whale of a time in a floral pyjama ensemble.

Sweet: Helena made sure to remind fans of her humble beginnings

Doting mum: Her mother Elsa looked gazed lovingly towards the future celebrity

What a pair! The Vogue coverstar smiled for a group pic alongside her sister Anita [left]

Comedian: The Miss Universe 1986 champion cracked a joke in her caption

Showing off her piano skills, the amateur musician had evidently brought her followers forward to the 80s for another shot.

Sporting a a stripy blue sweatshirt, complete with an eye-popping pair of turquoise socks, the fashion icon sat in front of a grand piano during a school recital.

Finally, an animated Helena showcased her sense of style as she sprawled herself out on a sofa in a hot pink flowing maxi skirt, which she combined with a white tee.

Happy: The Chanel model looked like she was having a whale of a time in a floral pyjama ensemble

Talented: Sporting a a stripy blue sweatshirt, complete with an eye-popping pair of turquoise socks, the fashion icon sat in front of a grand piano during a school recital
Matt Damon has revealed that his daughter Gia, 12, was diagnosed with Covid over the summer.

The actor, 50, revealed himself, his wife Luciana Barroso and their family were forced to self-isolate and undergo regular PCR tests after Gia struggled with a 'low fever.'

Despite his health scare, Matt said he's been 'as lucky as he can be' during the pandemic, after his family spent the first months of 2021 in Australia, which had seen a relatively small number of cases.

Scary: Matt Damon has revealed that his daughter Gia, 12, was diagnosed with Covid over the summer (pictured with the actor in August 2021)

Speaking to GQ, Matt revealed he had been ordered to isolate after learning that Gia had contracted Covid, and was grateful she hadn't suffered anything more than a fever.

He said: 'I mean, we've been about as lucky as you can be throughout this pandemic.'

The star added that thankfully himself, his wife Luciana and their other children Isabella, 15, and Stella, 10, had tested negative.

Worrying: The actor, 50, revealed himself, his wife Luciana Barroso and their family were forced to self-isolate and undergo regular PCR tests after Gia struggled with a 'low fever'

Matt added that his family had recently returned to the US after spending several months in Australia, which until recent weeks had seen a relatively low number of Covid cases.

He said: 'Its been a whirlwind, the relative calm of a COVID-free continent, to L.A. and then Frane and then back here. And, you know, dealing with this.

'Its just been a lot, like from zero to hundred again. I was excited to kind of reengage with the world, but I forgot how fast it moves.'

Family: The star added that thankfully himself, his wife Luciana and their other children Isabella, 15, and Stella, 10, had tested negative

Scary: Last year Matt revealed that his stepdaughter Alexia had also contracted Covid-19, while he and his family were isolating in Ireland

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS? Like other coronaviruses, including those that cause the common cold and that triggered SARS, COVID-19 is a respiratory illness. The most common symptoms are:

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Fatigue Although having a runny nose doesn't rule out coronavirus, it doesn't thus far appear to be a primary symptom. Most people only become mildly ill, but the infection can turn serious and even deadly, especially for those who are older or have underlying health conditions. In these cases, patients develop pneumonia, which can cause: Potentially with yellow, green or bloody mucus

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Last year Matt revealed that his stepdaughter Alexia had also contracted Covid-19, while he and his family were isolating in Ireland.

He spoke to spoke to Graham OToole and Nathan OReilly on Ireland's Spin 103.8s Fully Charged, where he admitted COVID-19 'is scary' and spoke of Alexia, who is his wife Luciana's daughter from a previous relationship.

Matt became stuck in Ireland where he was filming due to the travel ban, however he has likened his time in the Emerald Isle to 'a fairytale'.

Matt, who called Alexia his daughter in the chat, said: 'Our oldest daughter is in college, shes in NYC. She had Covid really early on, along with her roommates and got through it fine. But everybodys ok...

'For Lucys mum and my mum, its scary for that generation. I think weve all got the message now, everyones doing the isolation and social distancing and hand-washing and everything we can to mitigate this but its frightening, certainly for our parents.

Touching tribute: During his GQ interview, Matt also revealed that both himself and his wife Luciana share a matching tattoo with late Australian actor Heath Ledger

During his GQ interview, Matt also revealed that both himself and his wife Luciana share a matching tattoo with late Australian actor Heath Ledger.

He spoke about the touching tribute located on his arm in honour of his friend, who died in 2008.

Matt explained the couple had the 'strange loopy line' inked on them by Heath's tattoo artist Scott Campbell in 2019 - which had been designed by the Brokeback Mountain actor years prior.

Matt also has his wife and four daughters' names tattooed on the same arm, and says Heath's creative squiggle is like 'an angel that looks over all these names.'

Matching: Matt Damon (L) has the 'strange loopy line' designed by Heath on his arm, alongside the names of his four daughters and wife Lucy. Heath had the tattoo on his arm in a similar place, after designing it himself years prior

Luciana, meanwhile, has the tattoo on her foot.

Read the full interview in the latest issue of GQ

Matt, who worked with Heath on The Brothers Grimm in 2005, went on to say that creativity 'just flowed out of' the Aussie star when he was alive.

Matt previously told GQ in 2008 that he would constantly tell everyone he came across that Heath was the best actor he had ever seen.

He said Heath was 'too bright for this world' and described his death as 'f**king pointless'.

'There were things that he did where I couldn't have got there in three lifetimes,' he said. 'And there were ways in which he was like a puppy dog. You wanted to protect him.'

Heath was 28-years-old when he died from a cardiac arrest brought on by a prescription drug overdose.

The Oscar award-winner left behind daughter Matilda, two-years-old at the time, who he shared with former partner, actress Michelle Williams.
Chloe Sims showed off her fashion credentials while out in the West End with daughter Maddie, 16, on Thursday, ahead of the National Television Awards.

The TOWIE star, 39, turned heads in a slinky black satin dress, which teased a hint of her tanned legs - thanks to a thigh-high slit.

Chloe, who is set to star in the ITVBe new series set to air on Sunday, appeared in good spirits as she explored London with her teenage daughter.

Mother-daughter day: Chloe Sims showed off her fashion credentials while out in the West End with daughter Maddie, 16, on Thursday, ahead of the National Television Awards

The reality star teamed her all-black look with a fedora hat and cowboy boots.

Her stunning dress donned a slit up to her thigh and a button trim along the seam.

She carried her essentials in a black leather handbag and accessorised with a large silver bracelet and an elegant necklace.

Looking good: The TOWIE star, 39, turned heads in a slinky black satin dress, which teased a hint of her tanned legs - thanks to a thigh-high slit

Stepping out: Maddie, meanwhile, looked trendy in a black ensemble which donned frilled puff sleeves which she paired with white trainers

Maddie, meanwhile, looked trendy in a black ensemble which donned frilled puff sleeves which she paired with white trainers.

The teenager added a pop of colour to her outfit with a yellow handbag.

The mother-daughter outing comes after Chloe weighed in on the mass cull of stars that took place ahead of the new series of The Only Way Is Essex.

Linking arms: Chloe, who is set to star in the ITVBe new series set to air on Sunday, appeared in good spirits as she explored London with her teenage daughter

The new season is the 29th run of the structured reality show, and Chloe told The Sun of the cast cull: 'I think its how open you are and need to be. I don't think the difference between the cast who have left and the cast who have stayed is anything to do with being legends.

'I think it's how much youre willing to share; how raw you're willing to be.

'A lot of the cast who have left had private relationships off TOWIE and that doesn't really work because you have to share everything. Ive been an open book and shared the ups and all the downs - and theres been a lot of them.'

The likes of Chloe Meadows, Courtney Green, Harry Lee, Harry Derbidge, Clelia Theodorou, Tom McDonnell and Kelsey Stratford were all told they wouldn't be coming back to the series, which Chloe joined in its second season in 2011.

Stylish display: Chloe carried her essentials in a black leather handbag and accessorised with a large silver bracelet and an elegant necklace

Asked whether she was nervous about facing the chop, Chloe said she had no fears of being axed from the show.

She also insisted she won't jump into a public romance going forward, and will only introduce a man to the show if it gets serious.

The new series of TOWIE will air on ITVBe at 9pm on Sunday.
Megan Fox brought the sex appeal as she graced one of seven covers for the upcoming issue of CR Fashion Book, CR Parade.

The showbiz icon, 35, struck a seductive pose wearing a black PVC bodysuit and gold studded jacket.

In the publication, Megan discussed her 'karmic' relationship with her boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly, 31, whom she has recently sparked engagement speculation with after she was spotted wearing a ring on that finger.

Va va voom: Megan Fox was a vision of sexiness as she graced one of seven covers of the upcoming issue of CR Fashion Book, CR PARADE

'I think part [of our connection] comes naturally because our relationship is so karmic that our spirit, our souls, are so intertwined on that higher plane, a lot of it is handled for us by our ancestors and the spirits and energies that are watching over us,' she told the magazine.

The actress also discussed grappling with manic depression and a 'pretty severe' eating disorder.

Speaking of relating with her eponymous character in the 2009 film Jennifer's Body, Megan revealed: 'I came into the world really bright and sunny and happy. However, at a certain point, I went through some trauma in childhood and I developed a pretty severe eating disorder and manic depression, which runs in my family, so there was definitely some wrestling with chemical imbalance going on

'But as I got into my early twenties, that hell-hath-no-fury, a woman scorned demon did rise up in meI did tap into that archetype a few times as well. Thats kind of what you see in Jennifer [of Jennifer's Body]that sort of nasty streak that can exist if you align yourself with that ancient energy.'

Sultry: The 35-year-old put on a head-turning display in further images included in the magazine, which included a shot of her posing in a very fitted black top with dazzling silver underwear

Megan is just one of several stars appearing on seven covers of the upcoming 19th issue of the magazine, including Irina Shayk and Candice Swanepoel.

The star put on a head-turning display in further images included in the magazine, which included a shot of her posing in a very fitted black top with dazzling silver underwear.

She also levitated wearing a quilted lilac ensemble with shimmering heels as her brunette locks cascaded onto the floor.

The article comes amid new engagement rumors surrounding Megan and her boyfriend Machine Gun Kelly.

Floating fashionista: She also levitated wearing a quilted lilac ensemble with shimmering heels as her brunette locks cascaded onto the floor

The couple again set off engagement speculation while attending Wednesday's rehearsals for the MTV Video Music Awards, where the actress was spotted watching her beau perform on stage while wearing a 'ring on that special finger,' a source told Us Weekly.

According to the insider, there might also be a 'surprise announcement' during Sunday's broadcast from the rapper and rocker.

MGK (given name: Colson Baker) is expected to perform his single Papercuts, with Blink-182's Travis Barker backing him on drums.

Getting serious: Fox, 35, sparked engagement rumors with her beau Machine Gun Kelly ahead of the 2021 VMAs after she was seen with a ring on her engagement finger, Us Weekly reports

Megan previously sparked engagement speculation in January, when she was spotted wearing what appeared to be an enormous diamond ring on her engagement finger.

That was also timed to rehearsals for a high-profile performance, as MGK was preparing to appear on Saturday Night Live.

However, the actress quickly put the rumors to bed when she shared a closeup to Instagram of her hand with a ring reading 'F*** You.'

MGK doesn't appear to wear rings on his engagement finger, though he has been spotted with bands on his opposite hand at times.

Sparkler: Megan was seen with the ring while watching MGK, 31, perform his single Papercuts ahead of Sunday's broadcast; pictured in May in Westfield, Indiana

Taking it back: The Transformers actress was seen with a ring in January at SNL rehearsals for MGK, but she later wore a 'F*** You' ring to shut down the speculation

Megan and MGK have been nearly inseparable since they went public with their relationship in the spring of 2020.

They first got to know each other on the set of the thriller Midnight In The Switchgrass, which starred Megan and featured the musician in a supporting role.

The Transformers actress was previously married to Beverly Hills 90210 star Brian Austin Green, but they announced their separation in May 2020.

Megan, who had been married to Brian since 2010, filed for divorce in November of last year, though it hasn't yet been finalized.

She and the TV actor share three young sons: Noah, eight; Bodhi, seven; and Journey, five.

Brian is currently dating Dancing With The Stars pro Sharna Burgess, and the two were spotted last week taking his children to the Malibu Chili Cook Off.

Moving on: Megan and MGK have been inseparable since spring of 2020. She split from her husband Brian Austin Green in May of that year after getting married in 2010; seen in 2019 in LA

Megan and Machine Gun Kelly certainly haven't been shy about their passion in recent days.

On Tuesday, she posted a photo of her looking glamorous in a bra and a miniskirt while posing against a kitchen counter with a suggestive caption.

'When I tell you that the table at this air bnb saw some things,' she joked.

MGK was happy to join in in the captions, adding: 'i'm really glad that's not our table anymore.'

Steamy: The Jennifer's Body star hinted at her passions for MGK with a photo this week of herself next to an Airbnb table that 'saw some things'
Ridley Scott and his wife Giannina Facio were spotted arriving in Venice during the city's 78th International Film Festival on Thursday.

The talented director, 83, cut a low-key figure in a grey T-shirt, which he paired with a loose-fitted pair of white trousers.

Completing his look with a pair of multi-coloured retro trainers, the producer wore his glasses on a lanyard around his neck and kept his face out of the beating sunshine with a straw hat while his wife, 65, was chic in all-black.

Emerging: Ridley Scott, 83, cut a casual figure while his wife Giannina Facio, 65, slipped her enviable physique into a black jumpsuit as they touched down in Venice on Wednesday in time for his upcoming film premiere

Making sure to keep others around him protected, Ridley sported a large white facemask, as did his stunning wife Giannina.

His younger wife slipped her enviable figure into a black jumpsuit and she added inches to her height with a pair of coordinating flatform flip-flops.

The actress tied a gold-zipped sweater around her waist along with another which she slung over her shoulders.

What a pair! The talented director, 83, cut a low-key figure in a grey T-shirt, which he paired with a loosely-fitted pair of white trousers

Stylish: Making sure to keep others around him protected, Ridley sported a large white facemask, as did his stunning wife Giannina

She wore a pair of oversized studded hoops, along with wrap-around shades and a chain necklace with a circular pendant.

Her brown locks, which she styled into a fringe, had been dyed with blonde highlights, which tumbled down to her shoulders.

Ridley's upcoming film The Last Duel, which stars Jodie Comer, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Adam Driver, is set to premiere at the festival on Friday.

Drama: Jodie Comer looked ready for battle as she appeared on horseback in a new image from her upcoming film The Last Duel, directed by Ridley

Set in 14th century France, the movie follows Jodie's character Marguerite de Carrouges after she is sexually assaulted by her husband's best friend.

Her husband Jean (Matt) challenges his friend Jacques (Adam) to a state-sponsored trail by combat after she confides in him.

They believe the battle, the last lawful duel in French history, will determine by God's hand whether or not Marguerite is telling the truth.
Jessica Wright has tied the knot with her partner William Lee-Kemp at a romantic ceremony in Mallorca.

The former TOWIE star, 35, and her businessman beau, 34, exchanged vows in front of their nearest and dearest on Thursday.

The guest list included Jessica's brother Mark and her sister-in-law Michelle Keegan, a source confirmed to Hello! magazine.

Married: Jessica Wright has tied the knot with her partner William Lee-Kemp at a romantic ceremony in Mallorca

Prior to heading overseas for the wedding, Jess had marked the occasion on Instagram as she teased her upcoming nuptials.

She shared a picture of herself enjoying a glass of champagne in British Airways First Class Lounge at Heathrow Airport and captioned the snap: 'And so the journey begins!'

Her sister-in-law Michelle, 34, shared her excitement over the wedding as she commented on the post: 'Here we gooooooo!'

Jess' mum Carol Wright posted: 'So excited love you to the moon and back. Xxx God bless you with all the happiness in the world.'

Jess previously said she 'can't wait' for her lavish wedding day to go ahead, after being forced to delay it due to the pandemic.

She had considered scrapping her plans to host her wedding in Mallorca and have a smaller ceremony in England due to ever-changing travel restrictions.

With it going ahead overseas, Jess admitted her big day would be both 'overwhelming and emotional', especially following the tough time people have had as a result of Covid-19.

Speaking to Hello! magazine before her wedding, Jess said it would be a 'poignant', occasion.

'And so the journey begins': Prior to heading overseas for the wedding, Jess marked the occasion on Instagram as she posed with a glass of champagne in British Airways' First Class Lounge at Heathrow Airport

She elaborated: 'The excitement is so real now that it's actually going ahead. For so long, we've not known whether it will or not.

'I just can't wait now. It will be such an overwhelming and emotional day, and it will be all the more poignant after everyone has been through such a tough time.'

Jess had 13 bridesmaids, including Our Girl actress Michelle, as she couldn't choose between her closest pals.

She and William plan to have a short honeymoon in Mallorca following their wedding, before heading on a proper honeymoon at a later date.

Change: Jess and William were forced delay the big day due to the pandemic and even considered scrapping their Mallorca wedding plans to have a smaller ceremony in England

Candid: With it going ahead overseas, Jess admitted her big day would be both 'overwhelming and emotional', especially following the tough time people have had as a result of Covid-19

It was recently announced that Jess has inked a deal with ITVBe and ITV Hub for a 90-minute special titled Jess Wright: The Wedding, which will chronicle the build-up to her big day with fiance William.

Filming is well underway, but the date the show will air is yet to be confirmed with ITV telling MailOnline it will likely be late autumn.

The show will follow Jess' journey to the altar as she and William set about staging their dream wedding, a star-studded event on the paradise island of Mallorca.

Jess Wright: The Wedding is made by Potato, part of ITV Studios, the producers behind Ferne McCann: First Time Mum, Sam and Billie: The Mummy Diaries and the forthcoming Billie and Greg: The Family Diaries.

Girl crew! Jess had 13 bridesmaids, including her sister Natalya and Our Girl actress Michelle, 34, as she couldn't choose between her closest pals
Keanu Reeves was seen filming a scene for John Wick 4 with a stunt double in Germany on Wednesday.

The 57-year-old actor was spotted with the look alike in Gendarmenmarkt, a square in Berlin's Mitte district.

The scene was being shot at nighttime and the two could be seen surrounded by a production crew as they approached a black car.

On Wednesday Keanu Reeves was seen filming a scene for John Wick 4 with a stunt double in Germany

The pair wore identical black suits with white collared shirts and black ties.

Their dark neck-length hair was a bit disheveled for the takes and they sported short beards.

The fourth addition to the franchise is due out May 27, 2022.

Seeing double: The 57-year-old actor was spotted with the look alike in Gendarmenmarkt, a square in Berlin

In April of last year, series director Chad Stahelski spoke to Collider and noted that the project's creative team had set their bar much higher for the upcoming film from its inception.

'We submitted an idea or thematic [plan] and it was really big. So, we're talking about doing a little bit more than a [John Wick 4], or something like that, and trying to develop that,' he said.

The filmmaker also expressed that the development team had a relatively fleshed-out story in mind for the forthcoming feature and that they were glad to have a roadmap of sorts.

Hard at work: The scene was being shot at nighttime and the two could be seen surrounded by a production crew as they approached a black car

Thursday morning a brand new trailer for the next Matrix installation was shared on the movie's official Instagram page and website.

The film's December 22 release will come 18 years after The Matrix Revolutions, originally intended to be the final chapter in a trilogy documenting the transformation of computer hacker Thomas Anderson - played by Reeves - into cybercriminal Neo after he inadvertently discovers the ordinary world he inhabits is actually a simulated reality.

Stretching out the anticipation ahead of Thursday's launch, fans were treated with an ad featuring red and blue pills sitting side by side beneath the stark message: 'The choice is yours.'
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She stars as a wellness guru and possible cult leader in Hulu's new limited series Nine Perfect Strangers.

And now Nicole Kidman's fans can get a chance to step into her shoes, as the stunning villa she filmed the series in is available to rent on Airbnb amid its Luxe offerings.

The home costs just over $5,000 (or $6,820 in Australian dollars) to rent for a single day and is tucked away within acres of rainforest just outside Australia's Byron Bay.

Stunning views: The Byron Bay villa that stands in as a luxury retreat for Nicole Kidman's Nine Perfect Strangers character is currently available to rent on Airbnb for a pricy $5,000

In Nine Perfect Strangers, Nicole stars as Masha Dmitrichenko, a Russian expatriate and the founder of the wellness retreat Tranquillum House.

The series features stars, including Melissa McCarthy, Bobby Cannavale, Reginal Hall and Samara Weaving, as guests joining together for extended sessions at the house in hopes of being healed and transformed spiritually.

However, the experience is more than they expected, and Kidman's guru has a sinister and mysterious aura.

The series reunites Kidman with Big Little Lies creator and writer David E. Kelly, as well as novelist Liane Moriarty, who wrote the novels both shows were based on.

As in the series, the home, named Soma, is ideal for a large party with its 10 bedrooms and 10.5 bathrooms.

Enimgatic: In Nine Perfect Strangers, Nicole stars as Masha Dmitrichenko, a Russian expatriate and the founder of the wellness retreat Tranquillum House who appears to have some dark secrets; still from Nine Perfect Strangers

Massive: As in the series, the home, named Soma, is ideal for a large party with its 10 bedrooms and 10.5 bathrooms

Chic: Guests will immediately be struck by the villa's eye-catching exterior, with its boxy design and floor-to-ceiling windows for natural light and views of the surrounding hills. The second floor features stylish cladded walls covered in wooden slats

Guests will immediately be struck by the villa's eye-catching exterior, with its boxy design and floor-to-ceiling windows for abundant natural light and pristine views of the surrounding hills.

The second floor also features stylish cladded walls covered in vertical wooden slats.

Their's also a peaceful courtyard decorated with a slim pool featuring thick concrete blocks and stately steps.

On the other side of the house is a large pool adorned with deck chairs for those looking to soak up some sun.

Relaxing: Their's also a peaceful courtyard decorated with a slim pool featuring thick concrete blocks and stately steps

Towering: The smaller decorative pool features a wall of thick stone blocks

Part of the villa's charms are its outdoor attractions.

In addition to the lovely pools, just off the main property is a yoga dome tucked away within the forest.

The structure is a fixture on the series, as Nicole's character meets with all of her guests in it.

The dome features a lattice-like metal frame and is large enough for a party of guests to lay their mats out for a yoga lesson.

In the series, wood paneling was used to cover up parts of the domed ceiling to give the dome a sturdier look.

Getting away from it all: Part of the villa's charms are its outdoor attractions. In addition to the lovely pools, just off the main property is a yoga dome tucked away within the forest

On camera: The structure is a fixture on the series, as Nicole's character meets with all of her guests in it. The dome features a lattice-like metal frame and is large enough for a party of guests to lay their mats out for a yoga lesson

Transformed: In the series, wood paneling was used to cover up parts of the domed ceiling to give the dome a sturdier look

Inside the main house, guests have access to a chef-style kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and plenty of counter space.

An elegant wooden dining table stretches throughout the open dining space with prime views of the patio and surrounding area.

The open-concept design makes it easy for guests to transition from the dining table to the open living area to enjoy some after dinner cocktails and keep the conversation going.

There are also smaller seating areas for guests to break off into groups.

The villa's muted color scheme favors warm woods and soft grays, though the luscious vegetation outside and visible through the windows helps to add a splash of color.

Elegant dinners: Inside the main house, guests have access to a chef-style kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and plenty of counter space

Taking it easy: The open-concept design makes it easy for guests to transition from the dining table to the open living area to enjoy some after dinner cocktails and keep the conversation going

Tasteful: An elegant wooden dining table stretches throughout the open dining space with prime views of the patio and surrounding area

Soothing style: The villa's muted color scheme favors warm woods and soft grays, though the luscious vegetation outside and visible through the windows helps to add a splash of color

Despite being a luxury rental, the rooms appear to be fairly streamlined, in keeping with the villa's minimalist style.

Chic light fixtures and attractive ceiling fans, as well as wood-paneled ceilings decorate the rooms.

Those looking to rise with the sun will appreciate the enormous window wall, though it also features black out curtains for late risers and privacy seekers.

The home, which is nested on 22 acres of forest, is about 20 minutes from Cape Byron Bay and only a 10 minute drive from downtown.

On theme: Despite being a luxury rental, the rooms appear to be fairly streamlined, in keeping with the villa's minimalist style. Chic light fixtures and attractive ceiling fans, as well as wood-paneled ceilings decorate the rooms

In character: While speaking to People last month, the actress admitted that she was intentionally mysterious before finally meeting her costars in order to keep up her character's strange vibe

Nicole's series Nine Perfect Strangers currently boasts a 61 percent fresh rating from critics surveyed by Rotten Tomatoes, indicating positive but divided reviews.

Critics have applauded the ensemble cast, though some have criticized Nicole and her Russian accent.

While speaking to People last month, the actress admitted that she was intentionally mysterious before finally meeting her costars in order to keep up her character's strange vibe.

'I didn't really meet any of the people that were checking into Tranquillum House until the day we were shooting,' she said. 'So when I came in and we shot the first episode first, it was pretty much like meeting all of them for the first time, and I stayed in character.'

Throughout the five months of shooting she stayed in character, adopting Masha's mannerisms even when the camera wasn't rolling.

'I was very much Masha, and the way I related to everyone was through my shop,' she continued. 'So I think everyone thought I was completely crazy, but I would walk up, I'd put my hand on their heart, I would hug them  I was thinking primarily in my Russian-American accent.'
Emma Roberts shared a throwback photo of her son on Instagram.

The actress, 30, shared a black and white image in which she held her child close to her chest. Her son wore a polka-dotted sweater in the photo.

'So tired so happy #throwbackthursday,' the niece of Julia Roberts captioned the photo. Her little boy is about to turn eight months old.

Throwback Thursday: Emma Roberts, 30, posted an old photo of her and her son Rhodes

Tired and happy: The actress captioned the photo, 'So tired so happy #throwbackthursday'

The Scream Queens actress' son was born last December. His father is another actor, Garrett Hedlund of Tron: Legacy fame.

The two actors started dating in March 2019 following Roberts split from longtime boyfriend Evan Peters.

While she's managed to keep details about her relationship with Hedlund quiet, that was not the case when she dated Peters.

Famous parents: Rhodes Robert Hedlund is the child of two actors: Roberts and Tron; Legacy star Garrett Hedlund

The most notable public incident in their relationship came when the We're the Millers star was arrested in 2013 after a fight with the American Horror Story star left him with a bloody nose.

Their reps later told Us that it was an 'unfortunate incident and a misunderstanding' and that they were 'working together to move past it.'

Despite her new responsibilities as a parent, Roberts is still making her career a priority too.

Not slowing down: Roberts, seen here this summer, has a few projects on the horizon, including a voice acting role in Saurus City which is currently in production

The star has a number of films on the horizon including Saurus City, an animated film currently in production.

Saurus City will focus on two young dwarfs who find a guide to take them on a long journey. Dennis Quaid and Ron Perlman will also star in the film.

On top of Suaurs City, the actress will also appear in Now I See You. Roberts will play Nicole Kear, a Yale student who finds out she only has a few years left before her vision is completely gone.
Natasha Lyonne looks like she has a new man in her life.

The Russian Doll actress, 42, seen holding hands with a tall, dark and handsome fellow during Labor Day at the Malibu Chili Cook-Off.

The PDA all but confirmed things were over with former beau Fred Armisen, who Lyonne was first linked to all the way back in 2014. The pair were last photographed together at the 2020 Golden Globes.

New guy on the block: Natasha Lyonne held hands with a mystery man while enjoying a day at the Malibu Chili Cook-Off on Monday

Over? The PDA all but confirmed things were over with former beau Fred Armisen, who Lyonne was first linked to all the way back in 2014, seen together in 2020 above

Natasha seemed like she was enjoying herself during the sunny summer day, where she looked fresh and fun wearing a Hawaiian shirt tucked into a black skirt.

Matching her top's green, black and red pattern, she toted along a classic Gucci bag while clinging tight to her companion's hand.

The star - who was mask-free for the outdoor outing - let her curly auburn locks flow down freely while keeping her face at a makeup minimal glow.

Natasha's pal looked sharp in a black button up with short sleeves revealing toned and tattooed arms.

He continued the skater-chic look with dark jeans, cuffed at the bottom, and Vans sneakers worn sans-socks. His curly mop of hair tickled the back of his forehead and he had a bristly beard.

Handsome: The duo held hands tightly through out the day

Happy together: Natasha seemed like she was enjoying herself, smiling as they walked

Though it was immediately clear who Natasha's mystery man was, it definitely seemed like they were enjoying each other's company.

Lyonne's last relationship was with SNL alum Fred Armisen, who she was first linked to in 2014.

Though the couple kept their relationship private, she did call the Portlandia star an 'A-1 winner boyfriend' during a 2017 interview with Conan O'Brien and also appeared in several on-screen projects with him.

Natasha had previously been linked to actor Adam Goldberg in the early 2000s and before that Edward Furlong in the late 90s.

What happened here? Though the couple kept their relationship private, she did call the Portlandia star an 'A-1 winner boyfriend' during a 2017 interview with Conan O'Brien

Though Natasha is famous for playing lesbians like Nicky Nichols on Orange Is The New Black and Megan in But I'm A Cheerleader, the star has previously said she identifies as straight.

But she also admitted to having slept with women, telling the New York Times: 'Mind you, when I say Im not gay, it doesnt mean that Ive never tried sleeping with women. Of course, I have. Im not a dumb-dumb.'

She'd also previously questions monogamy, in 2001 telling Bust magazine: 'I think monogamy was created by men because of jealousy and their need for ownership, but now it's viewed as the weak neediness of women, and that pretty much sucks for us.'

Still, she said she had no issues with monogamy, but rather 'there are very few people I like on the planet' enough to commit to.
Selena Gomez is done with New York City for now.

The former Disney actress was seen in a black sweat outfit with her hair down and a black mask on as she headed to JFK airport on Thursday morning.

The Texas native had just spent the past week in the city to promote her new series Only Murders In The Building with Martin Short and Steve Martin.

Bye Big Apple: Selena Gomez is done with New York City for now. The former Disney actress was seen in a black sweat outfit with her hair down and a black mask on as she headed to JFK airport on Thursday morning

The ex of Justin Bieber and The Weeknd was seen in several stunning outfits during her time in Manhattan.

The Monte Carlo star wore an orange dress to do a late show one night. On another day she had on a black leather dress. And she was also seen in black mini dress with matching cardigan.

This week she also said she is in a 'group e-mail chain' with Short and Martin.

The 29-year-old actress stars alongside the two veterans in new Hulu series Only Murders in the Building and she has found it fascinating chatting to them about what Hollywood 'used to be like.'

A lot of take in: She had security all around her and a few handlers as she stepped out of a car

Worked hard: The Texas native, 27, had just spent the past week in the city to promote her new series Only Murders In The Building with Martin Short and Steve Martin

She told People magazine: 'They immediately made me feel like I was a part of a trio. They're just the best.

'They are extremely humble and kind, and they just have a different human perspective on life than anyone I've ever met.

'I asked them about how life used to be, and it was always so interesting to hear about the industry and what it used to be like. I felt like a sponge, just absorbing everything I could. We're all on a group e-mail chain.'

The 10-episode mystery-comedy show sees Selena star as Mabel Mora alongside Steve (Charles-Haden Savage) and Martin (Oliver Putnam) as three true crime-obsessed neighbors in an upscale Manhattan apartment when they team up to investigate a suspicious death.

Although she has appeared on the big screen over the years, her last TV acting role was Disney Channel's Wizards of Waverly Place over four seasons from 2007 to 2012.

Like a supermodel: She was seen in several stunning outfits during her time in Manhattan. The star wore an orange dress to do a late show one night

Back in black: On another day she had on a black leather dress. And she was also seen in black mini dress with matching cardigan.

Reflecting on the early success of the new show, she said: 'My friend sent me a picture that we got 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes and I just freaked out.

'I don't know if something's going to be good  I do that all the time, with my music and everything. I just go with my gut, so I'm just so happy that people like it.'

Meanwhile, Selena - who also serves as an executive producer on the project alongside her co-stars - recently said she isn't sure if she can claim to be a 'good actor'.

She explained: 'To be honest I don't know if I'm a good actor. I just do my job and hope I can live up to these incredible people.

'I will say, though, that I learned a lot from the first episode to the end. I even joked to [co-creator] John [Hoffman] that I wished I could redo the first episode because I felt I had developed a lot.'

Her buddies: This week she also said she is in a 'group e-mail chain' with Short and Martin. The 29-year-old actress stars alongside the two veterans in new Hulu series Only Murders in the Building and she has found it fascinating chatting to them about what Hollywood 'used to be like'

Short also said he thinks Gomez is 'charming'. The 71-year-old actor had never met the brunette beauty before they filmed the TV comedy series, and he recently admitted to relishing the experience.

Recalling his first impressions of the actress, he shared: 'I met her in the make-up chair, the first day that we shot. And I was right away struck by this beautiful, engaging and right away charming person.'

Martin admitted it was 'very easy' to shoot the series, acknowledging that it could have been tricky if he didn't get along with his co-stars.

During an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert alongside his co-stars, Martin said: 'I didn't know her. You could have been horrible.'

She admires the comedians: She told PEOPLE magazine: 'They immediately made me feel like I was a part of a trio. They're just the best. 'They are extremely humble and kind, and they just have a different human perspective on life than anyone I've ever met.' Seen on Tuesday

In response, Selena added: 'I know. I'm glad I'm not.'

Meanwhile, Selena recently confessed that working out is key for her mental health.

The actress feels 'miserable' when she's in the midst of a workout routine, but she recognizes that it's an important part of her beauty regime, and ultimately, it's good for her mental health.

She is a Vogue favorite: Also this week she promoted her rare Beauty line

Speaking in a video about her beauty secrets, Selena shared: 'I think the most important part of, you know ... my beauty and my routine is working out. I think it's just ... as miserable as it can be for me, I think it helps me mentally, it helps me physically of course. But, it just keeps me in a good head space.'

Selena also explained how her beauty regime has evolved over the years. The Lose You to Love Me hitmaker revealed she actually feels 'sexier' when she's wearing less make-up.

She explained in the video: 'When I was younger, I loved playing with make-up, like intense colors and even my foundation... I used to put on a lot and it would be fun. At first, it was just what I was into.

'But the older I've gotten, I've realized that less is more, and that it makes me feel sexier when I don't have as much make-up on. You don't need it to look beautiful - you already are beautiful.'
James Corden has obtained a restraining order against an obsessed female fan who has allegedly been stalking him for 'months.'

The Late night host, 43, obtained a temporary protection order against the 30-year-old, who reportedly has been staking out his home, complaining about his wife and sharing her plans to marry Corden, according to TMZ.

Corden's alleged stalker has repeatedly visited his residence, and even reportedly camped out in front of the home in her car for six days over the summer, only leaving after the cops became involved.

Protected: James Corden has obtained a temporary restraining order against a female fan who has been staking out his come and confessing her plans to marry the star

Court docs show Corden claiming she is escalating her behavior, and has even shown up to the set of The Late Late Show claiming she was there to marry him.

She reportedly told police the pair were headed to Las Vegas to get married, also complaining about how his wife Julia Carey 'stole' him.

More unsettling, she talked about Carey being 'out of the picture' so she could be with Corden in the future.

Because of this, Corden fears she may harm his family.

Now that a restraining order has been granted the woman must stop all attempts to contact the host, in addition to keeping 100 yards away from him, his wife and their three kids, who are three, six, and 10-years-old.

Threatened: The alleged stalker is 30-years-old and reportedly told police that Corden's wife of nine years 'stole' him from her. They're seen at the 2020 Vanity Fair Oscar's Party above

Corden and Carey have been married since 2012.

Over the weekend, they looked like quite the happy family while enjoying the annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off.

James has returned to Los Angeles after spending some of the summer holidays in London working on his latest project.

The actor plays a mouse in the new Amazon Prime film Cinderella, starring Camila Cabello and available to stream now.
Naomi Watts was spotted on her way to attend the ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in New York City.

The 52-year-old British actress stunned in a velvet Oscar De La Renta suit as she strolled down the sidewalk on Thursday.

The Impossible star was later pictured cranking the lever to light up the famed landmark in the traditional celebration that marks the start of New York Fashion Week.

Out and about: Naomi Watts was spotted on her way to attend the ceremonial lighting of the Empire State Building in New York City

Naomi channeled old Hollywood glamour in the retro-inspired gold and burgundy lattice-print pantsuit.

Watts wore her blazer draped around her shoulders over a silky cream-colored camisole that she tucked into her high-waisted flared trousers.

The King Kong actress donned a pair of beige-framed cat-eye sunglasses that had brown lenses and sported stiletto high-heeled pumps that matched her camisole.

Glamorous: The 52-year-old British actress stunned in a velvet Oscar De La Renta suit as she strolled down the sidewalk on Thursday, adding a Grace Han bag to complete the look

She accessorized with a thick gold choker, gold hoop earrings, a gold bangle bracelet and thick gold rings.

The blonde beauty wore her long bob in tousled waves and carried a cream handbag that had a gold braided chain.

Her makeup consisted of a rosy blush and a dark pink lipstick. The Academy Award nominee beamed as she walked across the pavement to her car.

Kicking off the celebration: Naomi was later seen posing for photos at the event which was officially titled In Partnership with IMG in Honor of New York Fashion Week: The Shows Presented by Afterpay

Naomi was later seen posing for photos at the event which was officially titled In Partnership with IMG in Honor of New York Fashion Week: The Shows Presented by Afterpay.

The Empire State Building was lit up in Afterpay's signature color Bondi Mint. Watts was joined by Afterpay co-founder and co-CEO Nick Molnar and U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y at the event.

The trio smiled as they lifted the lever to light up the building in the Australian payment platform's green hue.

Honor: The Impossible star was tapped to light up the famed landmark in the traditional celebration that marks the start of New York Fashion Week

Lighting it up! Watts was joined by Afterpay co-founder and co-CEO Nick Molnar and U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y at the event. The trio smiled as they lifted the lever to light up the building in the Australian payment platform's green hue

In May 2021, NYFW owner and producer IMG announced that Afterpay had signed on for a multi-year partnership that would begin with the September 2021 season.

After two years of mostly virtual events due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, NYFW is set to host in-person fashion shows and parties.

However, audience sizes will be limited and a quarter of the 119 shows will be virtual only. Attendees will also be required to show proof of vaccination upon entry.

Fashion forward: Ahead of the event, Naomi shared a teaser of her look on her Instagram Story, writing, 'Sneak peek' and tagging her personal stylist Jeanann Williams

Top of the world: She posted a video of the view from the Empire State Building

In the spotlight: Naomi panned the camera to show a large group of photographers

Ahead of the event, Naomi shared a teaser of her look on her Instagram Story, writing, 'Sneak peek' and tagging her personal stylist Jeanann Williams.

She posted a video of the view from the Empire State Building before panning the camera to show a large group of photographers. The video was set Alicia Keys' hit song Empire State of Mind.

Watts shared a photo in which she was seen posing with New York-based fashion designer LaQuan Smith.

Smith and Afterpay have teamed up for a 'see now buy later' fashion show which will be live-streamed for viewers at home who can buy the items straight from the runway with the option to pay for their purchases over time.

Naomi posted another video in which she was riding the elevator up to the top of the building. She excitedly wrote, 'Headed to light the @empirestatebldg!!' and included a snippet of the song All the Way Up by Fat Joe and Remy Ma.

Empire state of mind: Watts shared a photo in which she was seen posing with New York-based fashion designer LaQuan Smith in front of the historic landmark
TV and theatre actor Ian Stenlake, known for playing commanding officer Mike Flynn in Nine drama Sea Patrol, has been charged with various offences after an altercation with police and paramedics in Sydney's eastern suburbs earlier this year.

The Helpmann Award nominee and father of three, 52, allegedly threatened ambulance workers who were trying to assess him after a vehicle crash at a property on Abbey Street in Randwick at about 1.30pm on Tuesday, July 20, leading to police being called to the scene.

After officers arrived, Mr Stenlake allegedly verbally assaulted a male and female constable as they tried to assist him into an ambulance and he was arrested.

TV and theatre actor Ian Stenlake, known for playing commanding officer Mike Flynn in Nine drama Sea Patrol (pictured), has been charged with various offences after an altercation with police and paramedics in Sydney's eastern suburbs earlier this year

He was conveyed to Prince of Wales Hospital under police guard and was then taken to Maroubra Police Station, where he was charged with two counts of assaulting a police officer in the execution of duty without actual bodily harm, two counts of common assault, and resisting or hindering a police officer in the execution of duty.

Mr Stenlake was also issued a Penalty Infringement Notice for allegedly 'not complying with the current [Covid] health orders'.

A NSW Police spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia: 'Upon his release from hospital about 9pm (Tuesday, July 20, 2021), the man was taken to Maroubra Police Station, where he was charged with assault police officer in execution of duty without actual bodily harm (x 2), common assault (x 2) and resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty.

'He was also issued a PIN for not complying with the current health orders. The man was refused bail to appear at Waverley Local Court on Wednesday, July 21, 2021.

'The officers did not require medical assistance.'

A friend of the actor told The Daily Telegraph Mr Stenlake had been struggling before the incident with the Covid 'shutdown of the entertainment industry'.

Mr Stenlake, 52, (pictured with Amber Mulley at the Helpmann Awards in July 2018) allegedly threatened ambulance workers who were trying to assess him after a vehicle crash at a property on Abbey Street in Randwick at about 1.30pm on Tuesday, July 20, leading to police being called to the scene. After officers arrived, Mr Stenlake allegedly verbally assaulted a male and female constable as they tried to assist him into an ambulance and he was arrested

Mr Stenlake is perhaps best known for his theatre work, with credits including Mamma Mia! (2018), Around the World in 80 Days (2016) and Oklahoma! (2005).

In addition to his starring role in Sea Patrol from 2007 to 2011, he appeared in Nine's Stingers from 1998 to 2002 and Children's Hospital in 1997.

He has two children from his first marriage to theatre performer Rachael Beck, and another child from his second marriage to actress Amber Mulley.
Kids are finally going back to school after being at home for over a year even though COVID-19 is still raging across the country.

But, still, celebrities were celebrating the children's return to classrooms.

On Instagram, they expressed their joy over their little ones entering a new grade for the 2021/2022 school year.

Some of the stars who took to Instagram to offer a look at back-to-school madness were Jennifer Garner, Chrissy Teigen, Jessica Alba and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Sigh: Jennifer Garner had a lot to say as she shared a close up photo of herself. She has three children with ex-husband Ben Affleck: Violet, 15, Seraphina, 12, and Samuel, nine

Dad duty: Ben and Jen and their children, Violet, Seraphina and Samuel in 2019

Jennifer Garner had a lot to say as she shared a close up photo of herself with sunglasses on. She has three children with ex-husband Ben Affleck: Violet, 15, Seraphina, 12, and Samuel, nine.

'The school year starts in dribs and drabs, but todays the real deal for my familywe are back,' said the Alias actress.

'3/3 masked, 2/3 vaxxed (soon, please, 11 and under), every one eager, tentative, bold, vulnerable andas far as I can tellsmiling under the 3-ply.'

In Italy: Meanwhile, ex Ben was seen with his on-again love Jennifer Lopez in Venice this week for the premiere of his film The Last Duel with Matt Damon and Adam Driver

The West Virginia native then added: 'Thank you teachers, thank you administrators, thank you school stafffor being on the receiving end of a year and a half of feelings (kids and parents)big and loud, quiet and deep. '

And she shared: 'Thank you science for getting us this far and this much closer to health and freedom. Thank you for moms in your corner and gallows humor and the sun that rises, no matter what. And please, God, hold us in the palm of your hands.'

Meanwhile, ex Ben was seen with his on-again love Jennifer Lopez in Venice this week for the premiere of his film The Last Duel with Matt Damon and Adam Driver.

Opening her home: Model Chrissy Teigen shared images of her children ready for class

Proud mommy: Daughter Luna in a pink and red apple dress as she held a sign that said, 'Luna's First Day Of Kindergarten!'

So cute: Her son Miles held a similar board that read, 'Miles' First Day of Pre-k. He had on a black shirt and gray slacks. 'And so it begins!!!' said Teigen

No one can steal her backpack: Luna's pick book back had her name on it

The model shared an image of her daughter Luna in a pink and red apple dress as she held a sign that said, 'Luna's First Day Of Kindergarten!'

'Its happening,' wrote the beauty in her caption.

Next it was son Miles who held a similar board that read, 'Miles' First Day of Pre-k. He had on a black shirt and gray slacks. 'And so it begins!!!' said Teigen.

In another photo she is seen doing a group hug with her kids and her husband John Legend. She said tears were shed.

An Honest mom: Jessica Alba was also packing up all three of her kids for school. She has Honor, 13, Haven, 10, and Hayes, three, with husband Cash Warren

Little Jessica: She shared an image of Haven as she said, 'My Havie #5thgrade,' in her caption. The child had pigtails as she wore a pink shirt and light blue slacks

Her boy: There was an image of her son Hayes in a blue shirt and khakis with a backpack on: 'Hayes 1st day of preschool. It just goes too fast sigh-I love the goofy smile but the second one that lil stud lookin like his daddy @cash_warren.'

It's just an honor: And her eldest child, daughter Honor, was also seen heading back

It has been a bumpy year for the SI model as she was nearly 'canceled' when her mean tweets resurfaced, slaying Courtney Stodden and Farrah Abraham.

Jessica Alba was also packing up all three of her kids for school. She has Honor, 13, Haven, 10, and Hayes, three, with husband Cash Warren.

She shared an image of Haven as she said, 'My Havie #5thgrade,' in her caption.

The child had pigtails as she wore a pink shirt and light blue slacks.

Then there was an image of her son Hayes in a blue shirt and khakis with a backpack on: 'Hayes 1st day of preschool. It just goes too fast sigh-I love the goofy smile but the second one that lil stud lookin like his daddy @cash_warren.'

On September 1 she shared images of Honor with the caption, 'Honors first day of 8th grade  A proud (& obviously crying) mama thx @mrmikerosenthal for capturing these impromptu shots of my baby boo.'

Sarah Jessica Parker, 56, shared images of all three of her kids, but did not reveal their faces.

She has three! Sarah Jessica Parker shared images of all three of her kids, but did not reveal their faces. 'In the span of 7 days. One crosses the threshold into his freshman year of college. The other 2 into 7th grade. The house is different,' she said

Kids: Her three children with husband Matthew Broderick are: son James, age 18, as well as twin daughters Marion and Tabitha, age 12

Bye! Here one of her daughters is seen leaving their brownstone in New York City

'In the span of 7 days. One crosses the threshold into his freshman year of college. The other 2 into 7th grade. The house is different. We are different. They need us more. And far less. So many know. Gutted at the time passed. Passing. Exhilarated by the possibilities that await them. The love. The love. The love. X, SJ.'

Her three children with husband Matthew Broderick are: son James, age 18, as well as twin daughters Marion and Tabitha, age 12.

Hilary Duff shared an image of her on Luca with a sign that said, 'First day of 4th grade!'

She said, 'A couple more blinks and this kids going to be taller than me.'

The Younger actress also has daughters Banks, two, and Mae, five months.

Big boy: Hilary Duff shared an image of her on Luca, nine, with a sign that said, 'First day of 4th grade!' She said, 'A couple more blinks and this kids going to be taller than me'

At home with the little girls: And she has daughters Banks, two, and Mae, five months

Jessica Simpson posed with husband Eric Johnson as they held doubter Birdie Mae.

'Little Miss Birdie is the BOSS. She says I want school right now please We say Ummm you are only 2 Bird She says I want my teacher We say Well...who is your teacher?' said the star of Dukes Of Hazzard.

'She says Mama she is at my school silly, you funny...ok lets go now We say Birdie lets wait a little bit longer She says I not a baby, I go to school now We say Well you are our baby She says No yous are my babies, lets go and off we went sprinting to catch up. It was an emotional and happy morning. I think Im in a bit of shock at the moment. Gosh darn is in Pre-School.'
Treading the boards in feathers, gems and (very) little else, this was the moment dancers staged their return to the Moulin Rouge.

Dressed in their jewels and burlesque headpieces, performers rehearsed in full costume ahead of the Parisian cabarets official reopening tonight.

The French landmark has been shut for 18 months due to the pandemic  its longest closure since it was destroyed by a fire in 1915.

But the club  which has welcomed stars such as Edith Piaf during its 132-year history  is finally set to entertain crowds once again.

First opened in 1889, the Moulin Rouge is best-known as the birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance.

The French landmark has been shut for 18 months due to the pandemic  its longest closure since it was destroyed by a fire in 1915

First opened in 1889, the Moulin Rouge is best-known as the birthplace of the modern form of the can-can dance

Dressed in their jewels and burlesque headpieces, performers rehearsed in full costume ahead of the Parisian cabarets official reopening tonight

Yes we can-can! Paris' famous burlesque venue Moulin Rouge announces it will reopen tonight after its longest shut down in more than a century

Moulin Rouge is reopening its doors September 10 after closing in March 2020

Coronavirus saw the burlesque venue close doors for longest time since 1915

Dancers from the Paris staple made surprise announcement in costumes in May

ByClaire Toureille For Mailonline

The Moulin Rouge in Paris will be high-kicking its way back on stage on September 10, it announced with a flourish in May after the longest shut down in more than a century.

The first cancan of the post-pandemic era is due to take place tonight under the iconic windmill in Montmartre.

Twelve dancers, in matching masks and feathers, braved the morning chill outside the Moulin Rouge in May to reveal the opening date stitched into their dresses, much to the surprise of passing motorists on the Boulevard de Clichy.

Paris' Moulin Rouge has announced it will reopen its doors on September 10 2021. The burlesque establishment has been closed since March 12 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic. Dancers in costumes announced the reopening date in May, pictured above

'I'm extremely happy,' said 32-year-old dancer Mathilde Tutiaux.

'It feels so good to finally have a date. We are desperate to see our audiences again.

'The first cancan of the restart will be something else. It's a very technical number and after a break of more than a year, we will have to rehearse very hard this summer.'

Like the other 60 members of the cast, Tutiaux was forced to train alone at home during the shutdown, using her kitchen work surface to stretch.

The dancers, pictured, were delighted to announce in May they'll finally be back to work in September. The pandemic saw the famous windmill close its doors for the longest period since it was destroyed by a fire in 1915

The Moulin Rouge has been shut since March 12, 2020 - the longest closure since the theatre was destroyed by fire in 1915.

'Today, the planets are aligning. We are pleased to be working on this restart,' said Jean-Victor Clerico, director general of the Moulin Rouge earlier this year.

'If everything goes well, there won't be any distancing even inside. There are still some unknown factors. If one-metre (three feet) distancing is still needed, we will have to reduce capacity to 50 percent.'

The other renowned centres of Parisian 'nude chic' will reopen around the same time: Crazy Horse on September 9 and Le Lido on September 16.

Dancers of the Moulin Rouge revealing the reopening with letters embroidered on their blue, white and red costumes today

Cancan you believe it? France's nightclubs won't reopen until later, with the current curfew being lifted completed on June 30 (pictured: The Moulin Rouge dancers)
Hugh Jackman and his family are mourning the loss of his beloved father Christopher, who died last week on Father's Day.

And on Thursday, his supportive wife Deborra-Lee Furness and the couple's daughter Ava, 16, were seen for the first time since the news.

The mother and daughter duo stayed close as they headed out to lunch near the family's home in Tribeca, New York.

Hugh Jackman's wife Deborra-Lee Furness and daughter Ava Jackman stepped out in New York on Thursday as the family mourn the loss of the Wolverine actor's father Christopher who died last week

Both dressed casually for the outing and wore protective face masks.

Deborra, 65, appeared busy on her phone as she chatted to her teenage daughter.

Noticeably absent during the outing was Hugh, who recently thanked fans for their incredible support since he shared the devastating news on social media on Monday.

Both dressed casually for the outing and wore protective face masks

On Wednesday, Hugh raised a glass to his late father Christopher.

The Australian actor, 52, shared a short video of himself on Instagram with a martini glass.

'Quality. Here's to dad,' he said in honour of his father, before taking a sip. 'And it's so cold,' he added of his beverage.

The mother and daughter duo stayed close as they headed out to lunch near the family's home in Tribeca

'Here's to dad': Hugh shared a special toast in honour of his later father Christopher earlier this week following his passing on Father's Day in Australia, on Sunday

In the caption, The Greatest Showman star thanked his fans and friends for their messages of support.

'I'm grateful for the love and prayers. Here's to Dad,' he added.

On Sunday, Hugh revealed the sad news about his father Christopher, a British-born, Cambridge-educated accountant, who was believed to have been around 84 years old.

Alongside a photo of his father, he wrote: 'In the early hours of Father's Day (AU), my Dad peacefully passed away. And whilst there is deep sadness, I am filled with such gratitude and love.

Toast: On Wednesday, the Australian actor, 52, shared a short video of himself on Instagram with a martini glass. 'Quality. Here's to dad,' he said in honour of his father, before taking a sip

'My Dad was, in a word, extraordinary. He devoted his life to his family, his work and his faith. I pray he is now at peace with God,' he added.

Christopher raised Hugh and his two brothers, Ian and Ralph, as a single father, in Sydney, Australia.

The Broadway star was an eight-year-old schoolboy when his mother Grace left him and his family.

'Whilst there is deep sadness, I am filled with such gratitude and love': On Sunday, Hugh revealed the sad news about his father Christopher, a British-born, Cambridge-educated accountant, who was believed to have been around 84 years old

She left Australia and returned to her native England in the late '70s, leaving her husband to raise their children alone.

After the couple divorced, Hugh's sisters, Zoe and Sonya, went to live with Grace in the UK; Hugh and his brothers, Ian and Ralph, stayed in Sydney with their father.

In 2012, Hugh broke down on 60 Minutes when discussing his mother leaving his father, himself and his siblings.

Moving: Hugh Jackman has thanked his fans for their heartfelt messages of support after the death of his father Christopher

Scars: The Broadway star was an eight-year-old schoolboy when his mother Grace left him and his family. She left Australia and returned to her native England in the late '70s, leaving her husband to raise their children alone. Hugh is pictured as a child

He said: 'My father is my rock. It's where I learned everything about loyalty, dependability, being there day in, day out, no matter what'.

'It's always about the family,' he added of the values that his father has instilled in him.

Hugh explained that having children of his own with wife Deborra-Lee - they share son Oscar, 21, and daughter Ava, both adopted - gave him 'another level of empathy and understanding' that allowed him to build bridges with his mother.

Forgiveness: Hugh and his mother reconciled years later, and are now frequently pictured together at the actor's ritzy events and in social media posts. Pictured together

Learning: Hugh explained that having children of his own with wife Deborra-Lee Furness - they share son Oscar, 21, and daughter Ava, both adopted - gave him 'another level of empathy and understanding' that allowed him to build bridges with his mother. High is pictured with his wife on children on the day of his son Oscar's graduation

Fortunately, Hugh and his mother reconciled years later, and are now frequently pictured together at the actor's ritzy events and in social media posts.

He told The Sun newspaper in October 2011: 'I am 43 now and we have definitely made our peace, which is important.

'I was always quite connected with my mum. I have a good relationship with her' he added.
Australian Survivor: Brains vs Brawn host Jonathan LaPaglia has defended the reality show's use of sponsored segments after being called out by ABC's Media Watch for having so many 'awkward' and 'cringeworthy' product placements.

LaPaglia, 52, said incorporating brands into challenges was 'a necessary part of the production' and essential to making the program appealing to advertisers.

However, he did acknowledge some product placements fit better than others.

Having his say: Australian Survivor: Brains vs Brawn host Jonathan LaPaglia has defended the reality show's use of sponsored segments after being called out by ABC's Media Watch for having so many 'awkward' and 'cringeworthy' product placements

'I think the economics of the show is it's kind of a necessary part of the production,' he told industry website TV Tonight.

'We try and find the best way to integrate them as possible. Some sponsorship fits better than others. It's just the nature of the beast.

'It costs a lot of money to make the show and without those sponsors we probably couldn't make it.'

Essential: LaPaglia, 52, said incorporating brands into challenges was 'a necessary part of the production' and essential to making the program appealing to advertisers. KFC chicken was a reward for the contenders during one challenge

Product placement: Another episode saw an Isuzu D-MAX presented as a prize

Australian Survivor is known for incorporating sponsors into the program.

For example, KFC chicken was a reward for the contenders during one challenge; another episode saw an Isuzu D-MAX presented as a prize.

The Bachelor also features brand integration, with one of Jimmy Nicholson's single dates based around making Youfoodz for dinner.

Dinner is served! The Bachelor also features brand integration, with one of Jimmy Nicholson's single dates based around making Youfoodz for dinner

This type of advertising was scrutinised by ABC's Media Watch last week, with host Paul Barry saying 'it's anything but subtle'.

He added: 'That's bad news for viewers, who'll have to stomach more cringeworthy plugs in their favourite reality shows - and thats before they get to the ads.'

The segment raised eyebrows among the wider media, with many TV professionals considering it a non-story given that brand integration is now commonplace.
Afghan journalists Nematullah Naqdi and Taqi Daryabi show their wounds after being released from Taliban custody

Two Afghan journalists were left with ugly welts and bruises after being beaten and detained for hours by Taliban enforcers for covering a protest in the Afghan capital.

The pair were picked up at a demonstration on Wednesday and taken to a police station in the capital, where they say they were punched and beaten with batons, electrical cables and whips after being accused of organising the protest.

"One of the Taliban put his foot on my head, crushed my face against the concrete. They kicked me in the head... I thought they were going to kill me," photographer Nematullah Naqdi told AFP.

Dozens of journalists have reported being beaten, detained or prevented from covering the protests

Despite promises of a more inclusive regime, the Taliban have moved to snuff out mushrooming opposition against their rule.

On Wednesday night they declared demonstrations illegal unless permission had been granted by the justice ministry.

Naqdi and his colleague Taqi Daryabi, a reporter, who both work for Etilaat Roz (Information Daily) had been assigned to cover a small protest in front of a police station in Kabul by women demanding the right to work and education.

Naqdi said he was accosted by a Taliban fighter as soon as he started taking pictures.

"They told me 'You cannot film'," he said.

"They arrested all those who were filming and took their phones," he told AFP.

Naqdi and Daryabi say they were beaten and detained for hours by Taliban fighters for covering a women's protest in Kabul

Naqdi said the Taliban tried to grab his camera, but he managed to hand it to someone in the crowd.

Three Taliban fighters caught him, however, and took him to the police station where the beatings started.

Taliban officials have not responded to repeated requests for comment from AFP.

- 'They see us as enemies' -

The Taliban have claimed they will uphold press freedoms -- in line with unspecified Islamic principles -- although journalists are increasingly being harassed covering protests across the country

"The Taliban started insulting me, kicking me," said Naqdi, adding that he was accused of being the organiser of the rally.

He asked why he was being beaten, only to be told: "You are lucky you weren't beheaded".

Naqdi was eventually taken to a crowded cell where he found his colleague, Daryabi, who had also been arrested and beaten.

"We were in so much pain that we couldn't move," Daryabi said.

A few hours later the pair were released without explanation -- sent on their way with a string of insults.

"They see us as enemies," Taqi said.

The Taliban have claimed they will uphold press freedoms -- in line with unspecified Islamic principles -- although journalists are increasingly being harassed covering protests across the country.

In recent days, dozens of journalists have reported being beaten, detained or prevented from covering the protests, a show of resistance unthinkable under the Taliban's last regime in the 1990s.

The men say they were punched and beaten with batons, electrical cables and whips after being accused of organising the protest

Most are Afghan journalists, whom the Taliban harass more than the foreign media.

The protests are proving an early test for the Taliban, who after taking power on August 15 promised a more tolerant rule and to work for "the peace and prosperity of the country".

Zaki Daryabi, chief of the Etilaat Roz newspaper, said the Taliban's words rang hollow.

"This official speech is totally different from the reality that can be observed on the ground," he told AFP.
PARIS (AP) - France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday.

The measure will also include free medical visits about contraception, and will start Jan. 1, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced on France-2 television.

All contraceptive methods were already free for girls up to 18 years old, and that is being expanded to all women up to 25. Abortions in France are free for everyone.

Veran said young women are using contraception less than they used to, and that the main reason is financial. He didn't cite specific data. Frances state health care system covers some birth control costs but not all of them.

"Its intolerable that women arent able to to protect themselves, arent able to use contraception if they make that choice, because it would cost too much," Veran said.

The measure will cost the government about 21 million euros (nearly $25 million) per year, he said.

"Finally!" tweeted Alyssa Ahrabare of activist group Osez le feminisme. "The high price of medical consultations and contraception blocks access for several women to this essential right that allows them to keep control of their bodies and lives."

The health minister didn't address contraception methods for men, or specify whether the measure would apply to trans and nonbinary people. The Health Ministry did not respond to queries seeking clarification.

Several other European countries offer free or subsidized contraception. Contraceptive methods cost nothing in Britain, for example, and Spain's health system provides funding for 48 different birth control methods, and those administered in health centers are free.
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Andrew Boysie Campbellthe former manager of Dancehall artists Intence and I Waatasays he will be seeking the services of a lawyer, after the Clip Tall deejay released an alleged diss track on Campbells birthday last month.

On his Instagram page yesterday, Campbell reshared a Jamaica Star interview with the manager of Genna Storm Productions, Attorney-at-Law Christopher Townsend, which focused on the mental health of recording artists. In the article, published on September 2, Townsend suggested therapy for recording artists, since many of them may be battling depression and other mental health issues that they hide behind their public image.

Boysie captioned the shady share with, I was listening a song dis morning with iwaataaaa people. He said in the song all when mi JETTLIFE boysie did a help him, him still a Struggle. Does dat make any sense?

U betta mek Intence write some good song fi you. JETTLIFE forever, he added.

The song in question was Sign, released on August 13 and produced by Crashweh Play Music and Yung Gee Ent, and Boysie has apparently taken offense at its lyrics that claim he did not help I Waata. In Sign, I Waata also allegedly mentioned the managers child.

I Waata drop dis on my bday. Jamaica look [how] ungrateful di youth is. all a mention mi youth inna him song. Boysie wrote in another post. Mi did ago just leave dem alone but dis song yah mek mi ago put a Lawyer on it.

The artist manager was not finished quite yet. In another post, he shared a clip of I Waatas 2018 single Come From, in which the deejay acknowledged Boysie Records, before the affirming lyrics old shoes mi park it.

Continue to make ur money but remember a who mek u park ur old shoes, Boysie wrote in the caption of that post. (History man Create inna dancehall buss eye waata and intence one time) show some respect, he added.

Intence and I Waata had parted ways with Boysie Records and Campbell in the summer of last year. Though the artists have not publicly disclosed the reason for them leaving the label, Campbell had claimed that it was due to the artists breach of their five-year contract.

We parted ways a month ago, but make them gwaan, Boysie had told Loop News in August 2020. I wish them all the best in their future endeavours, but dem fi always remember the root and how it all started and who was there for them in the beginning.

I Waata is best known for his single Clip Tall, which has received over 6 million views on YouTube since its release on December 2, 2020.
Despite the potential damage to his career, Dancehall artist Tyrifik has flat out refused to take the easy way out and do gun songs that would perhaps resonate much easier with dancehall lovers.

I know I am one of Clarendons baddest artistes right now, some fans have been asking me where are the gun tunes?, but this is a route I choose not to take cause mi nah fi sing no gun song to stay relevant. I hate to incite violence because that does no good for our nation, the talented singjay whose real name is Terrio Archer, said.

My parish has a rising crime rate, and I know that music should be for upliftment of your mind body and soul..I dont have an issue with a lyrical feud or even a clash encounter cause that is a part of our culture but everything is connected, I am not trying to inspire youths in the wrong direction, he said.

According to statistics released by the Jamaica Constabulary Force, there have been 935 murders between January 1 to August 28th, a 9.7 per cent increase when compared to the corresponding period last year. There have also been 815 cases of shooting, a 2.4 per cent when compared to the corresponding period in 2020. There have been 63 murders in the Clarendon police division where Tyrifik currently resides.

People are really scared and hurting and I cannot contribute to something that is destroying our nation, hence no gun songs for me, he said.

There was recently a lively debate centred on the issue of whether or not dancehall is a corollary for the gang violence that plagues the island. Jamaicas PM Andrew Holness lashed out at entertainers who glorify violent lifestyles in popular music citing a negative impact on the minds of societys children.

Holness made the statements while speaking during a parliament session on March 30. In our music and our culture, in as much as you are free to reflect what is happening in the society, you also have a duty to place it in context, he said.

Dat yuh tek up the AK-47 and tun it inna a man head  That is not right. And though you have the protection of the constitution to sing about it, you also have a duty to the children who are listening to you, Holness said.

Tyrifik first came to public attention with his 2019 Reason Fi Live EP, which features songs such as Look at Us Now, featuring Loyal Flames; and the gospel-flavoured Ultimate Friend. All the songs are released on the May Pen City Records imprint. The eight-track project is a collection of anecdotes and thoughts on what it was like for him growing up.

Hailing from humble beginnings in Porus, Manchester, Tyrifik attended Vere Technical High School in Clarendon, but his focus was always music. He has earned a reputation in dancehall circles for tracks, including Word Sound A Power and Dancehall Spenders.

He plans to release a new album Trust the Process later this year. He recently released a collaboration with Munga Honorebel called Mula.
NEW YORK (AP)  Two decades after its destruction in the Sept. 11 attacks, the work to rebuild the World Trade Center complex remains incomplete.

Two planned skyscrapers, a performing arts center and a church are still unfinished at the site, which plays host Saturday to the annual ceremony honoring nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks.

Visitors to the commemoration will find a place that no longer has the feel of a construction zone, though, even as the work continues.

The memorial plaza with its twin reflecting pools opened in 2011. One World Trade Center  the spire originally known as the Freedom Tower  opened in 2014, as did the National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum. An underground transit hub and shopping mall opened in 2016. Three other glassy towers built to replace those lost in the attack are open.

Cranes and construction fences, however, can still be seen around the site. Here is a look at the unfinished work:

2 WORLD TRADE CENTER

Planned as the second tallest skyscraper at the site, 2 World Trade Center, might someday reach 80 stories. But for now, just a low stump of a building exists as a placeholder, covered with colorful graffiti-style murals at the northeast corner of the Trade Center site.

Developer Larry Silverstein has said he wants to sign an anchor tenant for the tower before starting construction.

Despite the coronavirus pandemic emptying out office buildings, the now-90-year-old says he is confident a tenant will be found so the Norman Foster -designed tower can be built in his lifetime.

At the end of the day, my goal is to put the shovel in the ground as soon as possible, and complete the rebuilding project we started 20 years ago, Silverstein said in an emailed statement.

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

After years of delays, the Ronald O. Perelman Performing Arts Center is under construction just to the west of 2 World Trade Center's future site and is scheduled to open in 2023.

While a performance center was part of World Trade Center master planner Daniel Libeskind's original scheme, disputes over its budget and design threatened its viability in the years after Frank Gehry and the Norwegian firm Snhetta were tapped to design it in 2004.

In 2015, the center's leaders announced a new team of architects, Joshua Ramus of Rex Architecture P.C. plus the firm Davis Brody Bond, who have designed a translucent glass and marble cube.

Once finished, the arts center's top floor will house a flexible set of spaces that can be configured into one, two or three theaters for drama, dance, film and music. Free performances will take place on a small stage on the lobby level.

All of the components are automated, so the walls move, the floor and the seats move, said the centers president, Leslie Koch.

Perelman, the banker and investor, secured naming rights with a $75 million donation. Besides that gift, the $500 million center is being built with private donations and $100 million from the Lower Manhattan Development Corp., the agency created after the attacks to spur redevelopment. Former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg is the chair of the board and a donor.

GREEK ORTHODOX CHURCH

The long-delayed construction of the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine, replacing the only house of worship destroyed in the attacks, is now proceeding briskly after years of delays.

The building, designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, is going up near the southeast corner of ground zero and will look down on the memorial plaza from a perch atop another building that holds the entrance to the World Trade Center's underground garage.

Slated for completion next year, the church is surrounded by a small public park and features a Byzantine-style dome and marble cladding that can be lit from within.

The project was first delayed by a dispute over location between the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which owns the trade center. Then, project costs soared and construction halted in late 2017 after the archdiocese fell behind on payments.

A new entity, Friends of St. Nicholas, led by a core of wealthy Greek Americans, assumed management on behalf of the archdiocese and raised the remaining funds. Construction resumed in August 2020, with final cost estimates of close to $85 million.

The archdiocese plans a lighting ceremony on Sept. 10 at the unfinished building.

5 WORLD TRADE CENTER

Construction has yet to begin on the tower that will replace an office building, occupied by Deutsche Bank, that was was damaged and contaminated by debris from the collapsing twin towers. The original building was demolished between 2007 and 2011  a job that came with its own tragedy. Two firefighters died in the building during a 2007 fire.

The LMDC and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in recent years chose a partnership led by Brookfield Properties and Silverstein Properties to develop the now-cleared land as a 900-foot (270-meter) tower with office and retail space in addition to 1,325 apartments.

We expect if everything goes according to plan that that building should be complete within about five years, said Silverstein Properties' marketing executive Dara McQuillan.

Plans call for 25% of the apartments to be designated as affordable and rented at below-market rates. But some neighborhood residents say that isn't good enough. They would like all of the apartments to be affordable.

The universal demand was always that there be affordable housing, said Todd Fine, a lower Manhattan preservation advocate. Fine called 330 below-market-rate apartments very minimal.

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Associated Press journalist Peter Smith contributed to this report.

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For more AP coverage of the 9/11 anniversary from New York and around the globe, visit our hub at https://apnews.com/hub/9-11-a-world-changed.
DARIEN  For more than four decades, hundreds of runners, their families and friends have filled the streets to support the community and their neighbors.

The Darien Road Race returns for its 41st year on Sept. 19 at Pear Tree Point Beach after it was canceled in 2020 because of the pandemic. The event is not only a tradition in town, but the Community Fund of Dariens biggest fundraiser.

Now, more than ever, the community wants to come together, said Jenn Moller, a community fund board member and a co-chair for the race.

She said theyre excited to host the race again and help raise money for those in need.

This really is a special event for our town, Moller said.

The Community Fund of Darien provides money to 30 or so nonprofit organizations in Darien, Stamford and Norwalk, focusing on the human element more than capital projects. This includes basic needs, youth success, workforce development and community health.

This year, the race will also kick off a new corporate partnership between the community fund and Mirador, a firm headquartered in the town that works in the financial industry. The firm started six years ago and its number of employees grew 200 percent in the past 18 months alone.

Tom Haidinger, Miradors chief marketing officer, said a key part of the company is not only serving its clients but those who work there. Since many of the employees also live in Connecticut, he said they wanted to give back to those communities.

Want to go? People can sign up online through www.communityfunddarien.org until the day before the race. The race kicks off at 9 a.m. Sept. 19 at Pear Tree Point Beach. There is a 1.5-mile fun run loop or a 5-mile timed run. It costs $50 for anyone 13 and older and $25 for children 12 and younger. See More Collapse

The firm established a foundation, Mirador Serves, in June and formed its first community partnership with the fund not long after.

The community fund couldnt be a better partner in our efforts, Haidinger said.

Not only is the firm helping out with the race with sponsorships, volunteers and runners, Mirador Serves is also working with the fund on future programs. Haidinger said the company is looking to do something to bolster financial literacy and to use the firms creative team and existing talents to help the community funds other initiatives.

Its truly a mutually beneficial partnership, said Janet King, executive director for the Community Fund of Darien.

She said the partnership goes beyond monetary donations to helping Mirador employees volunteer within the community.

We see it as a win-win-win, King said.

The fund also hosts brown bag lunches to better connect the employees to what the fund does and the needs in the community.

More than 1,000 people in Darien live below the poverty level, King said, adding that part of the funds mission is to raise awareness.

The race is a key way to do that by highlighting the funds mission, she said.

Since 1951, the fund has given more than $25 million to local nonprofits, King said.

It really impacts thousands of people in our local communities, she said.

The nonprofits are selected by fund members, King said.

This years race focuses on youth and programs to help them, especially since, King said, children and teens have been particularly affected by the ongoing pandemic.

People will be asked to wear masks and to not congregate much at the start of the race, Moller said, adding they will meet any COVID-19 requirements in effect on race day.

This might include no awards ceremony or giving participants individual water bottles.

Im hoping we dont have to, but were ready to comply with what restrictions might be in effect, King said. Were doing everything to make this happen.

The fund is no stranger to COVID-19s impact on the race. Last year, the fund had to pivot when the race was canceled  the only time that has happened in its long history. Instead, the fund hosted five dinners where people purchased meals that they could enjoy at home, with half of the $150 cost going to the fund.

While organizers said the dinners were a nice event during lockdown, theyre happy to be in person again for the races 41st year.

Its a great way for people to come out and give back to the community, Moller said.
What may be behind achy, tired, or burning eyes? Dry eye disease may be the culprit.
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Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed the plea filed by actor Kangana Ranaut seeking quashing of the criminal defamation proceedings initiated against her by a court here based on lyricist Javed Akhtar's complaint.

High court judge, Justice Revati Mohite Dere, who had on September 1 reserved her order on the plea, said the applicant's (Ranaut's) petition "stands dismissed".

Ranaut, through her counsel Rizwan Siddiquee, had challenged the defamation proceedings that were initiated by the Andheri Metropolitan Magistrate's court earlier this year, saying that the court had failed to apply its mind to the case.

Akhtar's counsel Jay Bharadwaj, however, told the high court that the magistrate had directed for the police inquiry after going through the lyricist's complaint and excerpts of Ranaut's interview, in which she had made the alleged defamatory comments.

Akhtar had filed the criminal complaint against Ranaut in November last year before the Andheri metropolitan magistrate for allegedly making defamatory and baseless comments against him in a television interview given to journalist Arnab Goswami.

In December 2020, the court directed the Juhu police to conduct an inquiry into Akhtar's complaint against Ranaut and then initiated criminal proceedings against her, and issued summons to her in February this year.
New Delhi: In a strong signal to the Pakistan-backed Taliban and Islamabad, the national security advisers of India and Russia held detailed talks in New Delhi in which both sides are learnt to have expressed deep concern over the developments in Afghanistan, the need for the Taliban to adhere to promises, the spectre of radicalism and terrorism, the presence of terror groups in Afghanistan and the threat posed to India and Central Asia.

At the High Level India-Russia Inter-Governmental Consultations on Afghanistan on Wednesday, NSA Ajit Doval and Russias Gen. Nikolai Patrushev are understood to have also discussed the flow of weapons to terrorist groups and smuggling across Afghan borders, and the chances of Afghanistan becoming a hub of opium production and trafficking. The Russian dignitary also later called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and met external affairs minister S. Jaishankar, with the Afghan situation figuring in both those separate discussions.

At the talks with Gen. Patrushev, secretary to Russias Security Council (equivalent to NSA), Mr Doval is learnt to have emphasised Pakistans links with the Taliban and other international terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan, and also the special responsibility Pakistan has to ensure that Afghan soil is not used to spread terrorism. Mr Doval is also learnt to have highlighted the links of Pakistans ISI with Pakistan-based terror groups operating in Afghanistan like Lashkar-e-Tayyaba and Jaish-e-Mohammed. The two are also understood to have discussed concrete forms of future bilateral cooperation among security agencies, including close coordination, upgrading consultations and information exchanges.

Despite the fact that Moscow of late has seemed soft on the Taliban, Russias concerns seem to be growing after the recent developments in Afghanistan, including the attack on the Panjshir valley by the Taliban which have angered both Iran and Russian ally Tajikistan.

Ironically, time-tested friends India and Russia had a stark difference of views on Afghanistan before the Taliban takeover. India had strongly supported the Western-backed erstwhile government of then President Ashraf Ghani while Russia had pitched for a strong role for the Taliban and made no secret of its dislike for the erstwhile Afghan government which collapsed last month following the fall of Kabul on August 15 to the Taliban.

Russia, meanwhile, put out a statement saying Mr Doval and Gen. Patrushev had an exchange of views on the military, political and socio-economic situation in Afghanistan wherein the importance of defining parameters of the future state structure of Afghanistan by the Afghans themselves, as well as the need to prevent the escalation of violence, social, ethnic and confessional contradictions in the country, were emphasised. Moscow also said both discussed deepening bilateral cooperation in the field of security with an emphasis on further interaction on the anti-terrorist track, combating illegal migration and drug trafficking, adding that in addition, both sides agreed to coordinate the approaches of Russia and India in multilateral formats on the Afghan settlement. It also said attention was paid to intensifying the joint work of both countryies special services and military bodies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted: Was happy to meet Mr Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of Russia. His visit allowed useful discussions between both sides on important regional developments. The PMO in a statement said: Secretary Patrushev briefed Prime Minister on his fruitful exchanges with NSA and EAM earlier in the day ... The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the visit of the Russian delegation led by Secretary Patrushev at a time when major changes are taking place in the region. ... He also said he was looking forward to welcoming President Putin in India in the near future, for the bilateral summit.
New Delhi: At the 13th Brics (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) Summit on Thursday evening in a virtual format chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leaders of the five nations adopted the New Delhi Declaration that said Afghan soil should not serve as a terrorist sanctuary to carry out attacks against other countries or become a centre for drug trafficking.

The five leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Jair Bolsanaro and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, also emphasised the need to address the humanitarian situation and uphold human rights in the strife-torn nation, including those of women, children and minorities.

This comes less than a month after the Pakistan-backed Taliban grabbed power in Afghanistan and can be seen as a strong message to Islamabad despite the fact that its all-weather friend China is part of Brics.

Russian President Vladimir Putin set the tone in his inaugural remarks, arguing that Afghanistan should not be a threat to its neighbours by becoming a centre for terrorism or drug trade even as he lambasted the Americans for the irresponsible attempt to impose alien values from outside and retreating, leaving the rest of the world to clean up the mess.

Mr Putin said that Afghans have fought for decades and deserve to exercise the right to define (what) their state will look like on their own."

In a move that would please China, the New Delhi Declaration resolved that while the cooperation on study of origins of the Covid virus is an important aspect, the process should be free from politicisation or interference.

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced that China would donate an additional 100 million doses of vaccines to fellow developing countries within this year, apart from the $100 million donation to global vaccine initiative Covax. President Xi said that China has provided more than one billion doses of finished and bulk vaccines to over 100 countries and international organisations, and would strive to provide a total of two billion doses by the end of this year.

The five leaders also endorsed the Brics Counter-Terrorism Action Plan while condemning terrorism in all its forms including cross-border terrorism. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval briefed the five leaders on the Action Plan that aims to further strengthen existing mechanisms of cooperation in areas such as financing and combating terrorism, misuse of the internet by terrorists, curbing the travel of terrorists, border controls, protection of soft targets, information sharing, capacity building, and regional and international cooperation. Brics also committed to combating terrorism financing networks and safe havens.

The five Brics leaders welcomed the signing of the agreement on Brics Cooperation on Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation and finalisation of the agreement on cooperation in customs matters. They also reaffirmed their commitment to implement the strategy for Brics Economic Partnership 2021-25 and welcomed the launch of the Brics agricultural research platform and the ongoing discussion on the Brics platform for digital public goods.

PM Modi in his inaugural remarks strongly pushed for Intra-Brics cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus, adding that these four Cs are in a way the fundamental principles of our Brics partnership. At a special briefing later, MEAs secretary (CPV and OIA) Sanjay Bhattacharyya described Brics as a happy family.

On Afghanistan the five Brics leaders jointly resolved, We underscore the priority of fighting terrorism, including preventing attempts by terrorist organisations to use Afghan territory as terrorist sanctuary and to carry out attacks against other countries, as well as drug trade within Afghanistan. We emphasise the need to address the humanitarian situation and to uphold human rights, including those of women, children and minorities.
Afghanistan has been slipping out of Indias grasp since Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad was appointed as the US Special Representative for Afghanistan by President Donald Trump on September 5, 2018. By the time the US-Taliban peace deal was done in February 2020, most of the earlier preconditions like a ceasefire, a peace deal with the Ashraf Ghani government in Kabul, etc had been dropped. US President Joe Biden, by retaining Mr Khalilzad, signalled, if anything, that he was even keener to cut and run than his predecessor. The Talibans policy of talk-and-fight had by the beginning of last summer positioned them to catapult themselves into power.

New Delhis diplomacy faced a huge challenge to safeguard Indian interests as its allies of the 1990s like Russia and Iran were no longer on the same page. Thus, the Indian government has little to be surprised at how events have unfolded. The United States was looking for the smallest fig leaf to extricate their personnel safely and thus declared the exit deadline of August 31, 2021. Once the US began withdrawing their military assets at the start of this summer, the Taliban knew that the door was ajar for them to push hard. The vacation of the main airbase at Bagram, when the US still retains airbases in Iraq, can at one level be seen as complicity in the Talibans capture of Kabul. Alternatively, it is very poor military planning for an orderly exit.

Lurking unseen has been Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which was planning and guiding the Taliban advance. The sudden collapse of the well-equipped and trained Afghan National Army (ANA) could have been anticipated once the US advisers providing air cover and intelligence left virtually overnight. In fact, Pentagon sources have been quoted in the media that they had warned all the four Presidents since the US intervention in 2001 that any sudden withdrawal would kick in precisely this kind of military collapse. The active Pakistani support by providing military officers and foot soldiers from jihadi outfits made the Talibans second coming quick and lethal. The Afghan National Army was always known for its high attrition through desertions. Now that turned into a flood. In addition, the Taliban kept acquiring surrendered US arms and vehicles. The momentum once built on the battlefield became a tidal wave as the morale of even the vaunted Afghan special forces collapsed.

The US kept holding aloft the hope that the need for legitimacy and international recognition would ensure that the Taliban would remain moderate and avoid any draconian application of the Sharia or revenge killings. The composition of the interim Cabinet puts that to rest. Mullah Mohammed Hassan Akhund, one of the movements founders, who is on a UN blacklist, is leading it. The interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani, is a FBI-wanted worthy belonging to the Haqqani Network, notorious for its terror attacks on Indian missions and posts in Afghanistan as well its proximity to the ISI. The supreme leader is Mawlawi Hibatullah Akhundzada, who remains unseen but has apparently issued a statement that the government must uphold the Sharia and ensure good relations with our neighbours and all other countries are based on mutual respect, besides being in conformity with Islamic law and the countrys values.

Two moderate voices - Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai - only landed jobs of deputies to the Prime Minister and foreign minister respectively. The overall consensus among analysts is that this is largely old wine in Pakistani Army water-containers. The presence simultaneously in New Delhi of William Burns, the head of the CIA, and Nikolai Patrushev, secretary-general of Russias Security Council, indicates that even the major powers are in a wait and discuss mode.

Separately, US secretary of state Antony Blinken has said that the UN Security Council resolutions will stand till the Talibans behaviour is seen as moderate and inclusive. The Cabinet is clearly non-inclusive and dominated by Pakistan-friendly elements like the new interior minister, Sirajuddin Haqqani.

The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman has reiterated hackneyed phrases like the Taliban following prudent domestic and foreign policies. He also simultaneously welcomed the new government because it brought an end to anarchy. The Afghan embassy in New Delhi issued a defiant statement dubbing the transition in Kabul as unacceptable. This would be seen as done at South Blocks prompting. The Russian visitor was given access to the Prime Minister, signalling an attempt to draw Russia closer to the Indian stand that the new Kabul setup is a proxy run by Pakistans ISI. That may turn out to be so or not but the presence of Sirajuddin Haqqani as interior minister complicates the return of Indian diplomats to the Kabul embassy and perhaps even less so to outlying posts in Jalalabad, Kandahar, etc. Questions will be asked how India can do business with a government which has persons holding high posts who have Indian blood on their hands. That is the kind of query India will have to address in the coming months.

India is, however, holding a few cards that the Taliban is aware of. One, Afghanistans economy is in shambles and a huge airlift of US aligned persons will have emptied out the governance structure. A brain drain, despite the new education ministers bluff that masters degrees are of little interest, will stare the new rulers in the face. Indias development assistance would be needed even more so now.

Two, India sits in the UN Security Council and thus, despite not having a veto, can influence the debate on lifting sanctions. Three, India could be critical for shifting the debate among neighbours, other than Pakistan, for or against the Taliban. Four, India-Iran-Russia can again create a check on the Talibans immoderation, drug smuggling and terror sponsorship. The US seems happy to work from an offshore position to keep up pressure via the IMF and monetary freezing.

After the initial euphoria, the Pakistan-Taliban marriage will see its wrangles. Already there are reports of Pakistani mortar fire into some areas of northeast Afghanistan. The ISIS-K and TTP will also be waiting and watching to rework their sanctuaries and alliances. But India needs peace at home to counter any mischief by Pakistan using Afghan assets. Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have adopted a dangerous path by praising the Taliban. It may be only to get the BJPs attention. But there is no denying that restoring statehood and reviving the political process in Jammu and Kashmir is an immediate need. Otherwise, the errors of the 1990s shall be upon us again.
Far from being settled, Afghanistan is perilously poised. Yasif Nazari, 6, leans on a flag pole as he wears an Afghanistan military uniform as he listens to speakers at a rally to support the Afghan government Representational Image. (AP)

Peel by peel, like an onion, the Talibs/Afghans will in conjunction reveal themselves, as Afghan women and men did the other day, demonstrating against Pakistani interference. That such a demonstration took place shows a degree of confidence that people can come out without too much fear. Far from being settled, Afghanistan is perilously poised. False flag action by one agent provocateur will invite a hundred dark analyses.

Some clarity may emerge when a regional summit is held in Dushanbe, Tajikistans capital, on September 16-17 hosted by the SCO.

New Delhi, which placed all its eggs in Ashraf Ghanis basket in Kabul under American supervision, is now seeking new hatcheries. Some have spotted in the new situation a chance to lessen New Delhis dependence on Washington. The narrative the US has promoted, with Islamabad as a dominant player in Kabul, unsettles South Block. External affairs minister S. Jaishankar has done well to touch base with Tehran, which independent sources say had a hand in strategising for the Taliban. The slain Quds commander, Qasim Soleimani, had apparently tasked Esmail Ghani, his successor, to liaise with the Taliban. If you the south will win, then with the north first begin. This was the Talibans strategy behind its recent victory.

Reaching out to the Taliban or countries bordering Afghanistan entails some internal adjustments for New Delhi: toning down jingoism, a tricky proposition ahead of the 2022 Uttar Pradesh polls or the 2024 general election. That is the Narendra Modi governments problem. To meet current contingencies, this must be on two tracks - talk to the Taliban but encourage the media to curse them. That will help keep the saffron elements satisfied.

For the US, there never was any restoration of the American elan after the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008-09. It has been downhill since despite the town criers who were allotted the facility of the global media.

This media will continue to pester Joe Bidens decision to withdraw from Afghanistan. The optics must be horrible for a people who were never aware of the untold destruction of some of the worlds oldest civilisations. It will make your hair stand if you realise the callousness of those who looted the Baghdad Museum, watched Palmyra bombed and the Bamiyan Buddhas destroyed. The last was done by a Taliban in the present Cabinet. He, like others, were reared in the madrasas on the Pakistani side of the border, financed by Saudis, trained by the ISI and armed by the US. Never forget Zbigniew Brzezinskis words: We were not worried about some stirred-up Muslims, he said. Our purpose was to defeat the Soviet Union. That mission was achieved, but in the process were created the Mujahideen/Taliban.

President Bidens speech on the Afghan withdrawal should be read in full. He has already set into motion the mother of all debates on foreign policy. Foreign policy that emphasises military restraint and diplomatic engagement and cooperation with other nations will serve American interests and values better than policies that prioritise the maintenance of global dominance through military means. The new debate initiated by the Quincy Institute is on these lines.

The focus, Mr Biden said, will be on competition with China and Russia. And there is nothing China or Russia would rather have, would want more than the US bogged down another decade in Afghanistan.

He spelt it out: Its not just about Afghanistan. Its about ending an era of major military operations to remake other countries.

Mr Bidens figures werent new, but his breakup was an eye-opener. $300 million per day for 20 years? 20,774 American servicemen/women injured and 2,461 killed. Weve been a nation too long at war; if youre 20 today, youve never known an America at peace.

He cites what he rightly calls a shocking and stunning statistic for those who believe wars can be low risk or low cost: 18 veterans, on an average, die by suicide every single day in America.

If Mr Bidens statement is a sincere departure from recent US foreign excesses, America may well be on a path when it will recover its stature as a nation to be admired, not feared. But those prone to dreaming such dreams too willingly must know how circumscribed a Presidents power is. Barack Obama came to office swearing he would shut Guantanamo Bay as an un-American facility. Today, it still flourishes. An eyes only file placed on the Presidents desk at the Oval Office by the intelligence agencies will pulverize any President.

There is a Persian expression Sahle mantane, which means incomprehensible in its simplicity. That is the kind of puzzle Afghanistan is today. On August 15, the Taliban enter Kabul, which is touted as a great victory over the US. On August 24, CIA director William J. Burns is welcomed by the Talibans Abdul Ghani Baradar at secret talks. What on earth is going on? The existence of ISIS-K was known for years, why does military action take place only after 175 people, including US servicemen, were killed by a suicide bomber outside Kabul airport?

Russias UN envoy Vassily Nebenzia was livid with the United States, Britain, France and India for not accommodating his concerns on the mass brain drain facilitated by the US airlift, and freezing of Afghan assets. Is a scorched earth policy being pursued? Russia and China abstained from voting on the Afghanistan resolution adopted by the UN Security Council.

Will the West squeeze the Taliban until the pips squeak? Another Great Game may well have begun at a time when President Biden is singing an entirely different tune.
The Principal Economic Adviser to the Finance Ministry, Sanjeev Sanyal, on Tuesday took to Twitter to say that he has been receiving harassing calls from the Vodafone Idea customer care service to pay his dues after porting his number to some other operator, although all dues have already been cleared.

"Two months, shifted from @ViCustomerCare to another provider. Have paid all outstandings but am hounded daily for random new charges. This is harassment & I intent to take this up with @TRAI and Telecom Ministry. Is this common? Is it only with Voda-Idea or a general problem," he asked in a tweet.

Two months, shifted from @ViCustomerCare to another provider. Have paid all outstandings but am hounded daily for random new charges. This is harassment & I intent to take this up with @TRAI and Telecom Ministry. Is this common? Is it only with Voda-Idea or a general problem?  Sanjeev Sanyal (@sanjeevsanyal) September 7, 2021

He further said that he received "very rude and almost threatening call" from a particular number during the day to pay Vi or face dire consequences.

Read | VIL flags industry's unsustainable financial duress; hopes for Govt support

"I am obviously not bothered, but I can imagine it would be intimidating for an average citizen," Sanyal said.

He noted that Vi's demands are not even consistent.

"Depending on their mood, they ask for Rs 938 to Rs 146. I have messages for both. There is either an obvious breakdown of internal systems, or this is a scam," he said.

In another tweet, he said that the Vi senior management has informed him that the matter will be resolved.

"However, it is not about my personal problem. Will get to the bottom of this and resolve it for everyone," he said.

I have just been called by Vi senior management to be told that my particular matter will be resolved. However, it is not about my personal problem. Will get to the bottom of this and resolve it for everyone.  Sanjeev Sanyal (@sanjeevsanyal) September 7, 2021

Check out the latest DH Videos here:
Equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty ended marginally higher on Thursday led by gains in Bharti Airtel, Nestle India and TCS despite negative cues from global markets.

After trading in a range through the day, the 30-share Sensex ended 54.81 points or 0.09 per cent higher at 58,305.07 -- its all-time closing high.

The NSE Nifty rose 15.75 points or 0.09 per cent to settle at 17,369.25.

Bharti Airtel was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, jumping around 3 per cent, followed by Nestle India, Tata Steel, Bajaj Finserv, HCL Tech and ITC.

On the other hand, Titan, UltraTech Cement, Bajaj Auto, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank were among the laggards.

"There is slight risk-off mode in global markets during the last few days and this has impacted the bullish sentiments in India too," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

Many experts feel that there can be a correction in the large caps that have been leading the rally this year. So part of the fresh money is now moving into new areas like PSU banks. But this is likely to be a short-term trend, he noted.

Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended with losses, while Shanghai was positive.

Equities in Europe were trading on a negative note in mid-session deals.

Meanwhile, international oil benchmark Brent crude rose 0.29 per cent to $72.81 per barrel.

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A BRICS report has made a strong case for developing a safe digital architecture with a view to gain the trust of stakeholders and promote financial inclusion among the member nations.

India is the current chair of the BRICS.

In the Second BRICS Finance Ministers' and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting held on August 26, 2021, the RBI tabled the 'Report on Digital Financial Inclusion in BRICS'; the e-Booklet on BRICS Information Security Regulations; and the Compendium of BRICS Best Practices on Information Security Risks: Supervision and Control. The reports were prepared by the respective teams of the BRICS central banks.

The report on 'Digital Financial Inclusion in BRICS', uploaded on the RBI website, notes that the Covid-19 pandemic has enhanced the focus on all aspects of digital financial inclusion.

There has been accelerated use of digital financial services mainly due to the relaxations and innovative approach adopted by the authorities, private players adopting the remote business and payment models and an increase in first-time consumers due to lockdown and social distancing protocols.

"While these are encouraging developments, the challenges of bridging the digital divide have got amplified.

"The risk of cyber incidents, online frauds, illicit financial flows and data privacy have come to the fore with increase in customer uptake as most of these technologies and platforms are relatively new and evolving," it said.

It further said that as the countries emerge from the pandemic, the digital financial system will have a crucial role to fulfil the aspirations and needs of our economies recovering from the pandemic.

At the same time, these new technologies must be designed and implemented with adequate safeguards so as not to exacerbate the risk of further marginalising the excluded section.

"Going ahead, the authorities have to focus on a robust and safe architecture to strengthen the trust of the stakeholders which will help in broadening the coverage and impact of digital financial inclusion," said the report.

The BRICS grouping comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

The e-booklet on Information Security Regulations and the Compendium of BRICS Best Practices on Information Security Risks covers information security regulations and best practices across the BRICS jurisdictions, with the objective of strengthening the cyber incidents management systems.

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Seven more suspects, including the alleged mastermind, have been arrested for the attempted murder of an office-bearer of a private schools association in North Bengaluru in July.

D Shashi Kumar, general secretary of the Associated Managements of Private Schools in Karnataka (KAMS), was assaulted by a gang of three as he drove back home to Muthyalanagar around 9 pm on July 29. While Kumar suffered injuries to different parts of the body, he had the presence of mind to grab his licensed pistol from the cars dashboard and pull it on the assailants, scaring them away.

Police cracked the case in early August by tracking down five suspects but the mastermind remained elusive. He has been arrested now.

According to the jurisdictional Jalahalli police, the attack was masterminded by one Laggere Ravi, having aliases Ravi Kumar and RTI Ravi, who is part of a private school parents association.

Ravi and six other suspects  Manohar alias Manu, Vijay Kumar alias Viji, Subhash alias Kariya, Srinivas alias Mental Seena, Ganesha and Chinna Arasu  were arrested from their hideouts in villages near the Sathyamangalam Forest in Tamil Nadu.

Two country-made pistols, three empty magazines, a car, two motorbikes, two longs, a machete, a folding knife and a scythe were recovered from their possession, Jalahalli police inspector Gururaj A said.

Police found out that Ravi had rented a house just 30 feet away from Kumars home to plot the attack, which took six months to materialise, and the gang tailed Kumar daily.

Police said Ravi claimed to be the president of the Karnataka Vidyarthi Jagruti Vedike and a parents rights activist. He extorted money from private schools but Kumar put a spanner in his enterprise by taking legal action against him. Ravi vowed to eliminate Kumar and instil fear in school owners. He roped in Dilip, a murder accused he had befriended in prison, for the hitjob.

According to police, Ravi has a criminal record that goes back to 2009. He was named in a suicide abetment case by Magadi Road police in 2013, in cheating and death threat cases by RR Nagar police in 2016, in assault and extortion cases in 2017 and in attempted murder and kidnap cases by Vijayanagar police in 2019.

The last case prompted the police to book him under the stringent Karnataka Control of Organised Crimes Act (KCOCA) but he got bail in November 2019.
Laabam

Tamil (Theatres)

Director: SP Jananathan

Cast: Vijay Sethupathi, Shruti Haasan, Sai Dhanshika, Jagapathi Babu

Rating: 2/5

Certain films offer a tentative vibe ahead of their release. The trailer for Laabam had given a glimpse of an outright preachy film. Our fears have come true.

Vijay Sethupathi plays Pakkiri, who returns to his village in Tamil Nadu after a long-stint of nomadic living. The man who travelled across the world claims to have the knowledge of succeeding in community farming.

After becoming the chief of the villages farmers association, he protests the greedy capitalist Vanangamudis (Jagapathi Babu) plan of setting up a bio-diesel project in the village.

Tamil cinema has squeezed the issue of land grabbing like a well-served tube of toothpaste. So Laabam is not just utterly predictable but also highly uninventive in its storytelling.

Every aspect of filmmaking in Laabam suffers from a lack of finesse. The poorly edited film forgets to breathe. Thanks to the hurried and information-filled screenplay, nothing registers in our head. The less said the better about the films staging and production value.

Laabam unravels like a classroom lecture. Sethupathi is the professor who preaches non-stop on community farming. He doesnt miss a chance to address the negatives of capitalism to his village people.

The script seemed apt for a documentary. Director SP Jananathans way of turning it into a feature is by forcing a female protagonist (Shruti Haasan) and a cliched villainous character into the plot.

Shruti Haasan plays Clara, a singer. She is supposed to educate the villagers through her performances but the manner in which this idea is executed is laughable.

Even more funny is how quickly she falls in love with the protagonist. The romantic track appears highly unrealistic. The weakly written character obviously does nothing to enhance Shrutis performance. So dated is Jagapathi Babus character that it reminds us of the villains of the 80s.

Jananathans untimely death due to a cardiac arrest earlier this year sent shock waves through the Tamil industry. The National Award-winning directors short filmography is very impressive. Laabam, though well-meaning, is far from his best.

In Sethupathis career, a mediocre film is always around the corner. The always-in-demand actor believes in exploring as many roles as possible. Its impossible, even for a gifted actor like him, to strike with 100 per cent accuracy. Some films will work while some will misfire. Laabam is definitely a failed experiment.
The Taliban, thankfully, didnt figure out Mohammad was a police officer.

Mohammad, 55, had worked for years in Laghman province east of Kabul, where chasing militants was part of the job. Then the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan. They killed his boss. Mohammad figured he and his family were next.

We left Afghanistan mainly to protect our lives, said Mohammad, who insisted on being identified only by his first name to protect his extended family from reprisals. On Aug. 16, he, his wife and their five children reached Spin Boldak, a town on the Afghanistan side of the border, before crossing to Chaman on the Pakistan side. To get there, they navigated watchful Taliban and paid Pakistan security forces $900 in bribes.

On the highway, Taliban fighters were stopping and searching travelers, said Mohammad. But, luckily, they did not recognize me because, maybe, I was a low-ranked cop.

Read | At least 14 members of Taliban's government, including acting PM Akhund, on UNSC's terrorism blacklist

The Pakistan authorities are watching worriedly to see whether more refugees like Mohammad and his family come pouring over the border. The government is expecting as many as 700,000 at a potential cost of $2.2 billion as the authorities set up camps and ways to track and feed them.

The new arrivals will present political problems for Pakistans leaders. The country already houses one of the worlds largest populations of refugees. The police and many members of the public treat them like criminals or potential terrorists, according to human rights groups. Already, regional and ethnic leaders are telling the government to turn them away.

One of them is Ayaz Latif Palijo, a leader among the Sindhi ethnic group in Sindh province, where the city of Karachi is based, and who has organized protests against new refugees and hunger strikes among members of his political party. Sindh is already home to refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar, some of whom have been there for decades.

Sindh is not an international orphanage, Palijo said, and we will not allow more Afghans to live here.

In Balochistan province, officials said Wednesday that they recently deported more than 500 Afghan refugees, including women and children, for entering the country illegally after the Taliban takeover.

Pakistans intelligence service supported the Afghan Taliban, and many of the groups leaders lived openly in the country. (Pakistan officials say their sway over the Taliban has been exaggerated.) Among the Pakistan public, many see the Taliban as righteous Islamic warriors who defeated American forces who brought years of war with them.

But the Talibans cruelty, both during their 1996-2001 rule of the country and when they were insurgents, contributed to the tide of refugees that spilled into Pakistan. The country officially hosts 1.4 million refugees, according to the United Nations, though experts say hundreds of thousands of unauthorized immigrants live there, too.

The migration issue has at times added tension along the border. Already, on Wednesday Pakistans military fired artillery rounds over the border, citing firing from Afghanistan that killed five soldiers  the latest in long-running hostilities as Pakistan forces target suspected insurgents hiding on the other side.

Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, Pakistans powerful intelligence chief, listed terrorism and refugees among Pakistans top concerns at a meeting with Taliban leaders in Kabul over the weekend, according to Fawad Chaudhry, the Pakistani information minister.

Read | Pakistan set to host meeting of Afghanistan neighbours

The number crossing the border is unclear. So far, say international aid groups and Pakistan officials, the tide of refugees seems to be weaker than expected. Violence in Afghanistan has ebbed. Some are waiting to see what kind of rulers the Taliban will be. And Pakistan has tightened its border controls, including building a 1,600-mile border fence in recent years.

At Torkham, the dusty border crossing about 140 miles east of Kabul, the Pakistani authorities appeared to be keeping the flow of refugees under strict control. Only small groups of people crossed the border, where only Pakistan citizens and Afghans with visas are allowed to cross. Hundreds of empty container trucks sat idle on the Pakistan side, evidence of a sharp drop in trade because of the war.

Many of the refugees belong to the Hazara ethnic group, which has suffered persecution at the Talibans hands.

We will not go back to Afghanistan now because we are targets of both Taliban and the Islamic State, which considers us infidels, said Sher Ali, 32, a Hazara and a refugee from Kabul who arrived in Karachi with his ill 55-year-old mother and a younger sister. Border personnel at Chaman-Spin Boldak, he said, allowed them to enter Pakistan on humanitarian grounds.

Many refugees face discrimination. They are often portrayed in Pakistans news media as drug peddlers and criminals. And, increasingly, terrorists.

A group called the Pakistan Taliban has claimed responsibility for several deadly attacks over the years, prompting a furious crackdown from the Pakistani authorities. Many of the groups leaders have taken shelter in Afghanistan, prompting people in Pakistan to regard the refugees with suspicion. After a terror attack in Pakistan, Afghan settlements are often raided by law enforcement, with young men rounded up, detained or beaten en masse, rights groups say.

Recently, the countrys national security adviser, Mooed Yusuf, said that Pakistani Taliban members might enter Pakistan in the guise of refugees.

Harassment and exploitation on the part of law enforcement agencies is a product of underlying perceptions of Afghans as violent, dangerous and suspicious, said Zoha Waseem, a sociology professor at the University of Warwick and an expert on policing. Refugees are therefore viewed with suspicion and seen as an alleged threat to the security of the nation-state. This makes an entire community, including refugee children, at risk of state harassment.

Read | Who is Mullah Hasan Akhund? What does the Talibans choice of interim prime minister mean for Afghanistan?

The skepticism left Afghan refugees in a state of uncertainty. Though Pakistans law allows those born there to get citizenship, the claims of Afghan children are generally not recognized. Imran Khan pledged to recognize their citizenship after he became prime minister in 2018, but he backed off following a backlash from politicians and the countrys powerful military.

For many, the biggest fear is deportation. In 2016, the Pakistani authorities forced more than 500,000 people to return to Afghanistan, according to Human Rights Watch. The group warned that the move risked adding to a population of hundreds of thousands of people in Afghanistan rendered essentially homeless by poverty and conflict.

The Talibans vengeful ways add to the risks. While the countrys new leaders have tried to strike a moderate tone, reports of reprisals against former members of the security forces and other Taliban opponents have trickled out of the country.

I have no plans to go back to the Talibans Afghanistan, said Khan, once a journalist in Kabul. He wanted to be identified only by his surname to protect his wife and two children, who remain in the Afghan capital.

Anticipating a Taliban victory by October, Khan had planned to get passports for his wife and two children to move to Pakistan. Kabuls sudden fall last month spoiled those plans.

Taliban has a list of journalists who were critical of the movement in their reporting, said Khan, who had a visa to enter Pakistan, and I am sure I am among them.

In Camp Jadeed, a makeshift home for Afghan refugees on Karachis outskirts, residents said they had no plans to go back despite the temporary nature of their surroundings.

With Talibans recapturing, a new era of uncertainty and fear starts in Afghanistan, said Jan Ali, an Afghan in his 60s who arrived in Pakistan in 1980 and makes a living selling secondhand carpets.

He has seen arrivals from decades of conflict. But the only good thing, this time, he said, is that bloodshed was avoided to gain Kabuls throne.
At least 10 people were killed when a fire broke out in a makeshift hospital for Covid-19 patients in the North Macedonian town of Tetovo, the country's health minister said on Wednesday.

"Ten people have been confirmed dead in the blaze so far, but the number could rise. This is a very sad day," Health Minister Venko Filipce said on Twitter.

Local media showed images of a huge blaze at the hospital in the town's west as firefighters raced to the scene. The fire was extinguished after a few hours.

It was unclear how many patients were in the hospital when the fire broke out around 9 pm, a senior government official told Reuters, declining to be named.

Coronavirus cases have been on the rise in North Macedonia since mid-August, prompting the government to introduce stricter social measures such as health passes for cafes and restaurants.

The country of 2 million reported 701 new coronavirus infections and 24 deaths in the past 24 hours.

The town of Tetovo, mainly inhabited by ethnic Albanians, has one of the country's highest number of coronavirus cases.

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The Mexican Supreme Court's unanimous decision on Tuesday to decriminalise abortion will principally help poorer women, who have in the past borne the brunt of punishments for the crime, the president of the tribunal said on Wednesday.

Speaking after the court ruled it was no longer possible to prosecute any woman who has an abortion without violating the constitution, Supreme Court president Arturo Zaldivar said denying women the right had been an enormous social injustice.

"Rich girls, and I've said this, and it upsets many that I say it, have always had abortions and never gone to prison. This is a crime which to a great extent punishes poverty," Zaldivar told reporters at a news conference in Mexico City.

Only four out of Mexico's 32 regional governments had decriminalised abortion before the court's ruling, and dozens of women have been imprisoned over the last decade for having had abortions, according to leading advocacy groups.

Zaldivar is viewed as a close ally of leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who has put helping the poor at the center of his administration. However, Lopez Obrador has shied away from taking sides on the contentious matter of abortion.

Earlier, Lopez Obrador said the court's decision should be respected, while adding that he felt he should not offer an opinion, because there are differing points of view on abortion in Mexico, a predominantly Roman Catholic country.

The court's ruling was hailed as a major victory for advocates of women's health and human rights, and came just as parts of the United States enact tougher laws against the practice, particularly in Texas on Mexico's northern border.

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The Afghan Taliban announced an interim-government setup on Tuesday, listing the newly-appointed cabinet of ministers comprising veteran old guards from their previous tenure in the 1990s.

Among the top leadership, Mullah Muhammad Hasan Akhund has appointed as the caretaker Prime Minister of Afghanistan with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar as his deputy.

Interestingly, the list of ministers also include veteran Taliban leader Sirajuddin Haqqani, who has been given the important Interior Ministry. Sirajuddin Haqqani is on the FBI's most wanted list with a bounty of $5 million on his head. Haqqani headed the widely feared Haqqani network of the Taliban and has been accused of many deadly attacks and kidnappings in the past.

Read | Afghans flee to Pakistan towards an uncertain future

It is pertinent to mention here that the cabinet and the interim setup announced by the Taliban comprises mostly Pashtun ethnic group, which is expected to be another issue that would become a hurdle in seeking international support for the Taliban.

There are many factors in the interim setup that may inject uncertainty and distrust among the international community, which is looking towards the Taliban to walk the talks and fulfil their commitment of an inclusive government in Afghanistan.

However, it seems that the Taliban have opted to stick to their top leadership and old guards to take over control of the country, as they look towards immediate inflow of aids and funds to help Afghanistan weather the cited economic and humanitarian meltdown.

It should be noted that about 80 per cent of Afghanistan's budget comes from foreign aids. At the moment, flights from Qatar are landing in Kabul on a daily basis with aid supplies. However, the immediate needs are much more and the country needs immediate aid from the global community.

The United Nations (UN) has estimated about $660 million as immediate relief aid, needed on urgent basis to cater to the desperate needs of Afghanistan for at least four months.

The Taliban takeover of Afghanistan is being seen with focused concern as reservations over the newly-elected interim government in Afghanistan has raised eyebrows.

"The world is watching closely," read a statement issued by the US State Department, expressing concerns over the selection of cabinet members being only Taliban.

Read | World wary of Taliban government as Afghans urge action on rights and economy

The US State Department has expressed its reservations over no female representation in the Taliban-led interim government in Afghanistan, along with personalities like Sirajuddin Haqqani, who what they call has a troubling track record.

"The administration would be judged by its actions," the US State Department statement added.

As far as the appointment of Haqqani is concerned as the country's top cop, it is also believed that the Haqqani group still holds a US civilian contractor Mark Frerichs in its custody. Frerichs was abducted in January 2020.

Even though the interim government led by the Taliban leadership is dominated by ethnic Pushtuns, inclusivity and representation of other ethnic groups may have been catered by some ranks of the cabinet, which have been given to ethnic Tajik and Uzbeks.

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In response to the new cabinet announced by the Taliban for the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, the resistance front in Panjshir province led by Ahmad Massoud has said that they will declare a parallel government in the country after consultations.

The front termed the Taliban's caretaker government as illegitimate and a vivid enmity with the people of Afghanistan, Khaama News reported.

The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan announced a 33-member caretaker government on Tuesday, which will be led by Mullah Muhammad Hassan Akhund.

Also Read | World wary of Taliban government as Afghans urge action on rights and economy

The front in its statement reiterated resistance against the Taliban and added that the Taliban are a threat to the region and the world.

"The resistance front acknowledged that they will establish a transitional democratic and legitimate government, which will be forged based on the votes of the people and will be acceptable to the international community," the resistance force said.

The front has asked the UN, UNHRC, EU, SARC, ECO, and the member states of OIC to stop cooperation with the Taliban.

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After Fahima, 30, stepped off a plane at Dulles international airport in Virginia on Aug. 26th, she asked an immigration official what would happen to her next. He shrugged, she said, and told her to find a lawyer.

Like many among the thousands of Afghans who were hurriedly evacuated by the US military from Afghanistan last month, Fahima is now facing an uncertain future in the United States.

"I was a little confused," Fahima said through an interpreter. "I didn't know that we had to talk to a lawyer and do all these things by ourselves. I thought the American government was going to take care of this."

The next day, Fahima was picked up at a convention center near the airport by her older sister Hakima, whose own experience as a refugee resettling in the United States four years ago was markedly different and underscores the challenges now facing recent arrivals like Fahima.

When Hakima arrived in 2017, she received the traditional benefits of a resettled refugee, such as cash assistance, health insurance and food stamps. Because Fahima was evacuated without a visa, she entered the country on urgent humanitarian grounds, a temporary reprieve that doesnt come with the same resettlement resources or path to citizenship.

Read | At least 14 members of Taliban's government, including acting PM Akhund, on UNSC's terrorism blacklist

"We dont know how she is eligible for any resettlement services," said Hakima, 37. "We havent received any instruction or services," she said in an interview.

Both sisters asked to be identified only by their first names to protect their family in Afghanistan.

"The problem is people had to come on a short notice with nothing but clothes on their back," due to the nature of the rescue operation, said Erol Kekic, senior vice president at Church World Service's Immigration and Refugee Program. The lack of benefits "is a huge issue," he said.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said the vast majority of special immigrant visa (SIV) applicants and other vulnerable Afghans are transferred to military bases upon arrival, where they receive help applying for work permits and with applications for immigration statuses they may be eligible for. There are about 45,000 Afghans at military bases in the United States, he said.

Afghan parolees will also be eligible for a State Department program that provides limited relocation assistance.

Uncertain future

In Afghanistan, Fahima worked as an administrator for a US organization and had a pending refugee application, she said. When the Taliban took over, she rushed to the airport in Kabul, fearing for her life. She sent her sister text updates when she got through the gate and eventually onto a plane first to Qatar, then Europe and a few days later, to the United States. Their parents and brother remain in Kabul.

Hakima, who works for a think tank in Washington, D.C., took Fahima back to her two-bedroom apartment, which she shares with a roommate. Hakima, Fahima and her cousin, who also recently arrived from Afghanistan, share Hakimas room in a high-rise in Alexandria, Virginia.

At dinner, the women discuss their living situation. Hakimas lease ends in October and she started looking at three-bedroom apartments, but found her income from the think tank wouldnt cover the rent. Hakima has started looking for a second job.

Read | Pakistan set to host meeting of Afghanistan neighbours

Fahima has been searching for English classes at a nearby community college as well as jobs online, but doesnt know what she needs to do to be allowed to work or study. The humanitarian parole status under which she entered the United States does not confer work privileges, but she can apply for a work permit, a process that takes time, said Church World Service's Kekic.

Hakima has looked into getting Fahima a lawyer, but said she worries about the cost.

"I have to support my family in Afghanistan, too," said Hakima. I have to consider everything. But she is happy to have her sister with her.

Fahima has stayed close to home since arriving, she said, sleeping in and going for walks nearby.

On Fahimas walks she marvels at the greenery and how empty the streets are compared to Kabul. But most of the days she spends at home, helping with cooking and cleaning, and waiting for her parents in Kabul to wake up so she can call them.

Last week, the sisters got some news that made them hopeful. Their brother had found somebody who said they could smuggle his family and their parents to neighboring Tajikistan for $1,100 per person. A dangerous trip, but they feel they have no choice.

"We're trying to get them out to any country which is safe," Fahima said.

While they wait to see whether their parents make it out of Afghanistan, Hakima wants to make sure Fahima is not putting her own life on hold. She tells her to leave the house and meet people.

"It takes time finding friends, she doesnt know anybody here," she said. "We all need our friends and our connections."
The United States is not in a rush to recognize the new interim government in Afghanistan, the White House said on Wednesday, asserting that it is talks with the Taliban to get American citizens out of the strife-torn country.

"No one in this administration, not the President nor anyone on the national security team, would suggest that the Taliban are respected and valued members of the global community. They have not earned that in any way, and we have never assessed that. This is a caretaker cabinet that does include four former imprisoned Taliban fighters," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference.

The administration has not validated that, she said.

"We have not conveyed we're going to recognize it and nor are we rushing to recognition. There's a lot they have to do before that. What we are working to do is to engage with them because they oversee and control Afghanistan right now to get American citizens, legal permanent residents, SIV applicants out of Afghanistan," Psaki said.

"We have to engage with them," she said.

Read | Taliban legitimacy will have to be 'earned': US Secretary of State Antony Blinken

"But to engage with them -- their new acting interior minister is a Haqqani network terrorist. He's wanted for a bombing that killed six people, including an American. He's believed to have participated in cross-border attacks against US troops. There's a $10-million bounty on his head. Why are we engaging?" she asked.

Taliban's hardline interim government includes specially designated global terrorist Sirajuddin Haqqani as the acting interior minister.

"Should we not talk to the people who are overseeing Afghanistan and just leave it and not get the rest of the American citizens out?" the White House [press secretary said.

The international community, she reiterated, is watching.

Read | At least 14 members of Taliban's government, including acting PM Akhund, on UNSC's terrorism blacklist

"The United States is watching. It's whether they let people depart the country who want to depart, whether they treat women across the country as they have committed to treat them and how they behave and operate. And, therefore, we're not moving toward recognition," she insisted.

"At the same time, we're dealing with a reality world here where we have to engage in order to get American citizens and others out of the country," she said.

Meanwhile, House Foreign Affairs Committee Lead Republican Michael McCaul led committee Republicans in a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to continue US sanctions against the Taliban.

"With the withdrawal of all US military forces and diplomatic personnel having been completed while Americans and thousands of our Afghan allies remain trapped on the ground, the Taliban holds all the cards. Despite the public statements that have been made, we urge you and the rest of the Biden Administration to maintain a very healthy dose of skepticism about what the Taliban's intentions and abilities are, they said.

"With the Taliban's capture of Kabul, their continued ties to Al-Qaeda and track record of horrific governance have become even more concerning. We must maintain what leverage this administration has left to not only secure the evacuation of our citizens, allies, and Afghan partners from the clutches of a terrorist group, but to prevent another atrocity on American shores like the tragic attacks on 9/11," the Republican lawmakers said.

"We believe it necessary for the Treasury Department to maintain and potentially expand its current sanctions efforts targeting Taliban forces, leaders, and the third-party entities that fund them. It is imperative that no sanctions against the Taliban are lifted to ensure our national security and the security of our citizens and partners is protected, they said.

Congressmen Carlos Gimenez and Ted Budd have introduced Prohibiting Assistance to the Taliban Act to prohibit American taxpayer dollars from being sent to the Taliban in the form of foreign aid or economic assistance.

"The same Taliban government that gives aid and comfort to Al-Qaeda terrorists should not receive a single cent from hardworking American taxpayers. Id like to thank Rep. Gimenez for leading this important legislation," Budd said.

Congressman Joe Wilson said that composition of the proposed "Taliban terrorist government confirms a return to total subjugation of women and an invigorated conspiracy to attack Americans abandoned by US President Joe Biden in Afghanistan while coordinating suicide bombers across America".

"It is gruesome that Biden is not capable of responding when attacks occur and he and (Vice President) Kamala Harris must resign to protect American families," he said.
Afghanistan's new rulers have rewarded Taliban veterans and hardliners with plum posts in the cabinet despite promising an inclusive government, but the choices could pose obstacles in the country getting Western recognition and aid.

At least three members named in what was described as an acting cabinet on Tuesday were among the Taliban Five, long-term detainees at the US military prison in Guantanamo Bay who were freed in 2014 in exchange for an American soldier in Taliban custody.

The interior ministry went to Sirajuddin Haqqani, head of the Haqqani Network, who is wanted by the United States on terrorism charges and carries a bounty of up to $10 million.

His uncle, with a bounty of $5 million, is the minister for refugees and repatriation.

The 33-strong cabinet was dominated by Pashtun men, mostly battle-hardened veterans of the two-decade war against the US-backed government.

Read | At least 14 members of Taliban's government, including acting PM Akhund, on UNSC's terrorism blacklist

There were no women and just three members from minorities, although these included the powerful positions of deputy prime minister, held by the Uzbek Abdul Salam Hanafi, and army chief, held by the Tajik Qari Faseeh udin.

"The way they have set about constituting a government sends the wrong signal," said Rohan Gunaratna, professor of security studies at Singapore's Nanyang Technological University, adding that the choices made it extremely difficult for the international community to recognise the new government.

"Afghanistan will not achieve a seat in the UN," he said.

Foreign countries greeted the makeup of the new government in Afghanistan with caution and dismay.

The European Union said it was ready to continue with emergency aid to Afghanistan, but will keep a close eye on the new Taliban government.

Afghanistan faces the collapse of basic services and food and other aid is about to run out, the United Nations said on Tuesday.

The Haqqanis

The three "Taliban Five" members in the cabinet were Head of Intelligence Abdul Haq Wasiq, Borders and Tribal Affairs Minister Noorullah Noori and Culture Minister Khairullah Khairkhwa.

The rising stature of the Haqqanis, whose fighters were at the forefront when the Taliban captured Kabul last month, was also a matter of concern, some analysts said.

The Haqqani network is described as a terrorist organisation by the United States, which has also said it receives support from neighbouring Pakistan, especially its ISI spy agency. Islamabad has denied the accusations.

However, some analysts noted that ISI chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed visited Kabul at the weekend, just ahead of the announcement of the cabinet.

"The elevation of Sirajuddin (Haqqani) to Interior Minister and his uncle Khalil to a ministry reflects the fact that finance and protection from the ISI have leveraged the Haqqani Network into a powerful position at the heart of the new administration," said Michael Semple, an Afghanistan expert at Queen's University in Belfast.

The choice of Mullah Hasan Akhund as prime minister came as a surprise.

Read | Pakistan set to host meeting of Afghanistan neighbours

Although not known as a hardliner, he was favoured over Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the head of the Taliban's political office and the public face of its negotiations with the United States and other governments.

Baradar is deputy prime minister, but Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia programme at the Woodrow Wilson Center in Washington, said: "We can perhaps read this move as a successful effort by hardline Taliban factions to sideline Baradar, who is a relative moderate within the Taliban."

The other power centre in the Taliban, said Asfandyar Mir, an analyst at the United States Institute of Peace, was with old-timers from the Kandahar region in southern Afghanistan who draw their clout from their proximity to Mullah Omar, the late founder of the movement.

"What happens is in terms of inter-tribal dynamics, what region you're from, how long you've been around and what's your association with Mullah Omar," Mir said.

"A lot of those factors continue to be more important than the developments of recent months, or years," he said, referring to the moderates.
Candidates who opted out of the CA exam conducted in July because of Covid-19 related difficulties will not lose any opportunity, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) told the Supreme Court on Thursday.

The apex court, which was hearing an application seeking a direction to the ICAI to conduct back up examination for opt-out candidates, asked the applicants to make a representation on this to the institute.

A bench headed by Justice A M Khanwilkar was told by ICAI's counsel that an appropriate decision will be taken on the representation within two weeks.

Senior advocate Ramji Srinivasan, appearing for the institute, told the bench that there will be no loss of opportunity to candidates who had opted-out from the July exam as per the top court order.

In July itself, we had said those candidates who have opted-out pursuant to your lordships' leave, will have their back up in November 2021 along with the main cycle. It will not be treated as an attempt and they will not lose any benefits. They will get the benefit of the same old syllabus, Srinivasan told the bench, which also comprised Justices Hrishikesh Roy and C T Ravikumar.

In its June 30 order, the top court had said a candidate shall be entitled to exercise the option of opting-out of the exam if he or she or any family member has suffered Covid-19 in the recent past and the fact is certified by a registered medical practitioner.

That will not be considered as an attempt in the examination as such and the candidate will be permitted to appear in the back up examination, to be conducted for the old as well as the new syllabus, subject to conducive situation prevailing at the relevant time, the court had said.

During the hearing on Thursday, advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for the applicants, referred to the June 30 order about back up examination and said those who had opted-out would essentially lose one attempt.

They (ICAI) should be directed to hold a back up examination instead of saying that you appear in the regular exam cycle, Bhushan said, adding that from next year the syllabus will be new.

Let me assuage the apprehensions of my friend. There will be no loss of opportunity to people who had opted-out, Srinivasan said.

On the issue of holding back up exam, he said there were logistical problems in last year and the institute needs about five to six months to prepare for examination.

The bench told Srinivasan that these candidates can appear in the November examination but asked whether it was possible to conduct one more examination under the old syllabus.

Srinivasan assured the bench that no candidate will lose his or her opportunity.

The bench said for the time being, it is not disturbing the examination cycle and the ICAI can take appropriate decision on the representation to be filed by the applicants.

You make representation. The institute is very open to all suggestions, the bench told Bhushan.

Bhushan said the institute should consider having back-up examination even if they have it after November.

The bench observed it will not force them to have back-up examination as the ICAI has given up this idea due to its experience.

We don't wish to continue this petition in view of the stand taken by the institute that all aspects brought to the notice of the institute will be taken into account and appropriate decision which is in the best interest of the candidates will be take provided the same is consistent with the policy and extant rules, the bench said in its order.

The bench permitted the applicants to make representation to the ICAI.

In its June 30 order, the apex court had made clear that a candidate need not produce RT-PCR test if medical certificate issued by registered medical practitioners for his family members is produced along with request for opting out of the July examination.
Days after it was alleged for killing five truck drivers/helpers, Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA), a militant group in Assam's Dima Hasao district declared "unilateral ceasefire" for "creating an atmosphere for peace talks" with the government.

Mungshri Ringsmai Dimasa, the publicity secretary of the outfit, issued a statement on September 7, stating that the "unilateral ceasefire" was declared as a "goodwill gesture" and as a "positive response" to the call for peace by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The letter was made public by Assam police headquarters in Guwahati on Thursday.

The ceasefire will remain in force for six months, it stated.

On August 27 night, suspected members of DNLA waylaid five trucks at Diymbra area in Dima Hasao, a hilly district in central Assam, sprayed bullets and set them on fire. Five truck drivers and handymen died and another was injured in the attack.

The trucks were carrying coal and clinkers for a private cement company.

Formed in 2019, DNLA demands a "sovereign state" for the Dimasas, a major tribe inhabiting in Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong, Cachar and Nagaon districts of Assam and in parts of Nagaland. The outfit has been held responsible for several violent incidents including killings, abduction and extortion, particularly in Dima Hasao district.

The "ceasefire" comes five days after the Centre and Assam government signed an accord with five insurgent groups in neighbouring Karbi Anglong district, who demanded a separate state for the Karbis, another ethnic tribe.

Chief Minister Sarma, after signing the accord, appealed to all other militant groups to abjure violence and come forward for talks. Sarma said efforts were underway to "find a path" for negotiation with DNLA.

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Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Bhupen Bora on Thursday said that there were no provisions for safety kits, such as life jackets, swimming tubes etc., in both the boat that collided and capsized and the ferry which hit it in the flooded Brahmaputra river near Nimatighat on Wednesday.

Bora also pointed out at a press conference here that according to media reports help from both the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) took one hour to reach the site of disaster.

The Congress demanded that the state government should immediately give an ex-gratia of Rs 25 lakh to families of those deceased. River police team along with SDRF and NDRF personnel should be strategically stationed in river routes for prevention of mishaps, Bora added.

Read more: Protests in Assam over Brahmaputra boat capsize, minister forced to sit on road

"During flood season, is it not mandatory for river transport authorities to monitor water transport activities in order to prevent any such mishap and does Nimatighat and Majuli even have a functioning river police station", he asked.

The state Congress President said his party would not like to politicize the unfortunate incident but at the same time "it is our moral duty as an opposition party to remind the government of its negligence and carelessness towards the lives of people."

"How can two vessels collide in broad daylight, in good weather conditions....does the Inland Water Transport Department have properly marked navigation routes or not....do they have licensed boat or ferry drivers?", Bora asked.

He also sought to know whether the load on the ferries were being monitored as allegations are also rife that ferries and boats are always overloaded as also whether the condition of the vessels were being monitored.

Bora also said that the BJP government have made numerous electoral promises to the people of Majuli and Jorhat time and again but these remain just promises and are not fulfilled. In 2016, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had laid the foundation of a bridge from Majuli to Jorhat but it did not get any further from that for five long years, he pointed out.

Gadkari again did 'Bhumi Pujan' and laid the foundation stone of the same bridge between Majuli and Nimatighat before the last assembly polls.

"It is extremely tragic that the BJP government remembers about the long standing demand for a bridge only during elections and conveniently forgets about it after the polls are over", Bora added.

The Roll on Roll off (Ro Ro) service was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal at Kamalabari Ghat in 2018 and a Ro Ro vessel, named MB Bhupen Hazarika, was built at a cost of Rs 9.46 Cr by Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI).

It had a capacity to carry over 100 passengers along with 8 trucks but "it is unfortunate that till date the Ro Ro service is not operational for reasons best known to the state government", Bora said.

He also pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi too had flagged off the Ro Ro Ferry Service with much fanfare once again just before 2021 assembly elections but "nobody knows what happened after that".
A photo of a billboard featuring Maharashtra minister Aaditya Thackeray has been shared by BJP members and supporters to show him appeasing the Muslim community. The billboard has a picture of Thackeray on a green background waving to people and a text in Urdu ( ) that translates to hello. Below is a tweet by BJP national media panellist Charu Pragya.

From Saffron to Green.

From Marathi to Urdu.

From Shiv Sena to ..?  pic.twitter.com/ciMiQ9pZLO  Charu Pragya (@CharuPragya) September 7, 2021

Another user wrote that Thackeray is bidding farewell to his Marathi identity.

The image is massively widespread on Facebook.



Credit: Alt News



Misleading narrative

A reverse-image search of the photo takes one to an article published by News18 in 2019 about Aaditya Thackeray filing his nomination papers for the Maharashtra polls in Worli. The article has pictures of the billboard in question and other similar billboards with different background colours and texts in varied languages reading hello. The one in Gujarat reads Kem Cho Worli while the Telugu and Hindi texts say Namaste Worli.

The billboard that carries Urdu text was cherry-picked to give a false perception that Thackeray was appeasing Muslims when, in fact, he was appealing to people from different communities. The disinformation also brings forth the demonisation and communalisation of Urdu. A similar misleading narrative was attempted to be built around farmer leader Rakesh Tikaits speech in Muzaffarnagar where he uttered Allahu Akbar. Tikait was sharing a message of religious harmony, telling protestors at the Kisan Mahapanchayat that Muzaffarnagar, a place that has witnessed communal riots, is known for farmers movements that invoke chants of both Allahu Akbar and Har Har Mahadev together.

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The Union Health Ministry on Thursday claimed that first dose of Covid-19 vaccines used in India offer nearly the same protective effect against death as the second dose, contradicting existing research findings that show double doses offer greater protection.

The claim is based on Indian Council of Medical Researchs new vaccine tracker that has been created by integrating three data sets  CoWIN, ICMRs national Covid testing database and a Covid-19 database of the Union Health Ministry that has never been made public.

The tracker demonstrates 96.6 per cent efficacy of the Covid-19 vaccine in preventing mortality, which goes up marginally to 97.5 per cent with the second dose.

Read | No scientific body suggests Covid vaccination of kids should be condition to reopen schools: Centre

This is inconsistent with many research findings that concluded higher levels of protection with two doses.

The claim of high protection from a single dose of the Covid-19 jab comes three months before the Centres target of inoculating 94.47 crore adults with two doses of vaccines by December 31.

While the entire target population is likely to be covered with a single dose by the year-end, two doses for everybody is out of the question as only 17 crore have received both the shots till now.

When DH asked top ICMR scientists why the states were not dropping the second dose vaccination drive and going for saturation coverage of the first dose in the backdrop of such a finding, there was no response. It is also unclear how the tracker took into account Covid-19 deaths at home.

ICMR director general Balram Bhargava said that the vaccine effectiveness values have emerged from an exercise to combine three datasets -- one on vaccinated population, the second on patients testing positive for Covid-19 and the third on patients who have died from Covid-19 -- linked through mobile numbers and unique identification numbers.

"It shows vaccines give protection in all age groups as the death rate is nearly zero among the vaccinated. The tracker will come online on the Union Health Ministry site soon, he said at a press conference.

Last month doctors at Delhi's Ganga Ram Hospital showed a single dose of Covishield barely offered any protection from Covid-19 symptoms or severe disease but significant protection came with two doses. An ICMR study in July on more than 117,000 Tamil Nadu police personnel showed 95 per cent protection with two doses as against 82 per cent protection to those who received single dose. There are several other studies with similar conclusions.

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India on Thursday joined the other BRICS nations to call for inclusive dialogue within Afghanistan, although the five-nation-bloc that included Russia and China refrained from criticising the Taliban for keeping women and most of the ethnic communities out of the interim government it recently announced to rule the conflict-ravaged country.

The BRICS leaders, however, tacitly conveyed to the Taliban that they would expect the organisation to prevent export of terror from the territory of Afghanistan. Building on the 2020 BRICS counterterrorism strategy, the five nations agreed on an action plan to fight the menace.

We follow with concern the latest developments in Afghanistan. We call for refraining from violence and settling the situation by peaceful means, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Vladimir Putin of Russia, President Xi Jinping of China, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa and President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil said in a joint declaration issued after the 13th summit of the BRICS. We stress the need to contribute to fostering an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue so as to ensure stability, civil peace, law and order in the country.

Read | BRICS has adopted counter-terrorism action plan: PM Narendra Modi

This was the first plurilateral meet, which was hosted by Modi and attended by Xi after the relations between India and China hit a new low over the military stand-off that started along the disputed boundary between the two nations in eastern Ladakh in April-May 2020.

The BRICS leaders emphasised the need to address the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and to uphold human rights, including the rights of women, children and the minorities in the country. They, however, refrained from calling out the Taliban for assault on journalists and purported atrocities on women protesting against the militant organisations return to power in Kabul.

They condemned the recent terrorist attacks near the Hamid Karzai Kabul International Airport that resulted in a large number of deaths and injuries. We underscore the priority of fighting terrorism, including preventing attempts by terrorist organisations to use Afghan territory as terrorist sanctuary and to carry out attacks against other countries, as well as drug trade within Afghanistan, Modi, Xi, Putin, Bolsonaro and Ramaphosa said in the joint statement.

The Taliban recently returned to power in Kabul after occupying many provinces in a swift military campaign taking advantage of the withdrawal of troops by the United States. The militant organisation on Tuesday announced an interim Afghan Government comprising mostly its leaders and clerics representing the Pasthtuns, leaving the other ethnic communities out.

The new dispensation also has no representation of women and is dominated by people who continue to be under United Nations sanctions. New Delhi had earlier signalled that it would want the Taliban to set up an inclusive government in Afghanistan. But the Modi Government refrained from making any comment on the structure of the new government in Kabul, even as it remains concerned over the strategic edge Pakistan would gain against India after the Talibans return to power in Afghanistan.

Putin utilised the BRICS summit as a forum to criticise the US for its role in Afghanistan. People of this country have been fighting for many decades and have earned the right to independently determine what their state will be like, the Russian President said in his opening remarks. Though Xi refrained from making any comment on Afghanistan, Beijing already indicated that it was ready to work with the Taliban Government in Kabul as long as the Taliban could ensure that the territory of Afghanistan would not be used to destabilise its Xinjiang region of China.

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India on Thursday demonstrated its preparedness for war by landing a C-130J Super Hercules military aircraft on a national highway close to the countrys border with Pakistan in a mock emergency drill.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) also inducted the Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) Barak 8, as the countrys security environment turned more challenging with continuing military stand-off with China and Pakistan gaining a strategic edge with the return of Taliban in power in Afghanistan. The MRSAM Barak 8 missile system was developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organization and the Israel Aerospace Industries, in collaboration with private and public sector companies in India.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the MRSAMs would prove to be a game-changer in the air-defence system of the nation. We have taken a giant leap towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said after the first deliverable Firing Unit of the MRSAM was handed over to IAF at the Air Force Station in Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.

Singh and Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari earlier flew aboard the IAFs C-130J aircraft, which landed on the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) built recently on the Satta-Gandharv stretch of the National Highway 925 A near Barmer in Rajasthan, just 40 kilometres away from the India-Pakistan border. A Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet of the IAF also took part in the mock emergency landing on the national highway to mark the inauguration of the ELF.

This is the first time a national highway has been used for landing military aircraft. The Agra-Lucknow expressway, which is controlled by the Uttar Pradesh government, also had such an emergency landing strip and the fighter jets had in the past landed and taken off from it as part of drills.

Construction of the emergency landing field in the vicinity of the international border signalled how prepared we are to protect the sovereignty of our nation from any threat, Singh said. Gadkari said that similar ELFs would be built at 19 other places across the country.

The work on the ELF commenced in July 2019 and was completed in January 2021 with a total expenditure of Rs 32.95 crore. The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) engaged a private company to build the 3.5-kilometre-long landing strip under the supervision of the IAF. It will be used for the flow of normal road traffic. But in case it has to be used as an ELF during an emergency situation like war or natural disasters, the service road will be used for the smooth flow of road traffic. The ELF will be able to facilitate landing by all aircraft of the IAF.

In addition to the ELF, three helipads were also constructed in nearby Kundanpura, Singhania and Bakhasar villages, as required by the IAF and the Indian Army.

The ELFs are being built on the expressways and the National Highways so that they can be used by the military aircraft for landings and take-offs in case the normal runways and landing strips in the IAF bases or the civilian airports are damaged by enemy bombings during the war. They can also be used during other emergencies, including during natural disasters.

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National High Speed Rail Corporation Limited is preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPR) for seven high-speed rail corridors, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Thursday.

With the experience of execution of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project, the work of other corridors will be faster, the Minister said.

He was addressing a gathering after flagging off indigenously designed and manufactured- Full Span Launching Equipment-Straddle Carrier and Girder Transporter to expedite the construction of a viaduct for Mumbai- Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor through video conferencing.

On Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, which is touted as the first bullet train project of the country, the Minister said work has already begun on 325 km (in Gujarat) out of 508 km corridor between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. More than 97% land has been acquired for the project in Gujarat and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and 30% land in Maharashtra.

"More than 6,000 workers are already working at various construction sites for the project, thus creating employment opportunities for the local youth. It is estimated that the Mumbai Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail project will create more than 90,000 jobs in this area including 51,000 jobs for technicians, skilled and unskilled workers," he said.

"This project will boost the overall economy of the area by deploying 1,000s of trucks, dumpers, excavators, batching plants, tunnelling equipment and so on. It is estimated that 7.5 million tonnes of cement, 2.1 million tonnes of steel and 70000 tonnes of structural steel will be used in the construction," the Minister said.

"Full span launching equipment of 1100 MT capacity is indigenously designed and manufactured by M/s Larsen &Toubro at Kanchipuram, Chennai. M/s L&T has partnered with 55 Micro-Small Medium Enterprises (MSME). India is now coming in the select group of countries like Italy, Norway, Korea, and China which have been designing and manufacturing such equipment. This will expedite the construction of high-speed railway, as is the proven technology in metro and similar projects," the Ministry of Railways statement said.

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The Congress lost 222 of its candidates and 177 of its MLAs and MPs, the highest for any political outfit, to other parties, while the BJP turned out as the biggest beneficiary attracting 253 candidates and 173 lawmakers to its fold in the past seven years since Narendra Modi became the Prime Minister.

An analysis by private election watchdog Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) showed that the BSP was the biggest victim after the Congress in defections with its 153 candidates and 20 lawmakers switching sides.

The BJP too lost 111 candidates to other parties while only 33 lawmakers from its fold left for other greener pastures for several reasons, including being sidelined, even as its ruling party status at the Centre helped it in attracting the highest number of leaders from other parties to its fold. Opposition parties had accused the BJP of using money power and misusing investigation agencies to weaken opponents.

The analysis is based on affidavits of 1,133 candidates and 500 MPs and MLAs, who changed parties and recontested elections during the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections since 2014.

While the Congress lost 222 leaders who had contested in its symbol earlier and its 177 MLAs and MPs left for other parties, including the BJP, the main Opposition party saw 115 candidates and 61 lawmakers joining them. The BSP had 65 candidates from other parties while 12 lawmakers join them between 2014 and 2021.

Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress lost 31 candidates and 26 lawmakers during the period but its strike rate in winning back or luring leaders from other parties was high as it managed to get 23 candidates and 31 lawmakers, many of them who had left Trinamool earlier, in its fold.

Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party lost 111 candidates and 12 MLAs and MPs to BJP and other parties but it managed to attract 29 candidates and 13 lawmakers from other parties to join its side. Nitish Kumar-led JD(U) lost 59 candidates and 12 lawmakers, while it managed to wean away 16 candidates who contested from rival parties and 12 lawmakers to its side.

While these parties lost big, regional parties like the DMK, YSR Congress, BJD and TRS gained while managing to plug leaks from its side. K Chandrashekhar Rao's TRS lost four candidates and as many lawmakers during the period but was a huge gainer at the end as it managed to get 12 candidates and 30 lawmakers from the opposite side.

YSR Congress, which is ruling Andhra Pradesh, lost three candidates and 16 lawmakers before the Assembly elections but it managed to bring 36 candidates and 24 lawmakers from rivals to its side. Naveen Patnaik-led BJD, which returned to power, managed to onboard 16 candidates and three lawmakers from the other side but lost only three candidates and six lawmakers.

H D Deve Gowda-led JD(S) lost 13 candidates and five MPs and MLAs to other parties in the past seven years but it managed to attract 13 candidates from other parties. Not a single MLA or MP joined the party during 2014-21.

It was mixed results for the Arvind Kejriwal-led AAP as it weaned away 25 candidates and one lawmaker to its side, while losing 13 leaders who once contested in its symbol and 11 lawmakers who had once won from its ticket.

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The proceedings of the Rajasthan Assembly were adjourned for the day on Thursday after paying obituary references to departed leaders.

The session started with Assembly Speaker C P Joshi appreciating the contributions of the late leaders.

He asked the members to observe a two-minute silence in their remembrance.

Read | Who is Priyanka Tibrewal, the BJP leader likely to take on Mamata in Bhabanipur?

The House paid tributes to former Rajasthan Governor and UP Chief Minister Kalyan Singh, former Rajasthan CM Jagannath Pahadia, former Governor of Kerala and Bihar Raghunadan Bhatia, former J-K Governor Jagmohan, former Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh and others.

Members also paid tributes to those killed in lightning strikes on July 11 in Jaipur, Dholpur and Kota in the state.

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The woman, who had filed the first complaint under Gujarat Freedom of Religion (Amended) Act, 2021, described by the Vijay Rupani government as anti-love jihad law, has approached Gujarat High Court, seeking withdrawal of the FIR she filed against her husband and seven others including in-laws and the qazi, the religious priest who performed the marriage, among others.

On Wednesday, the High Court issued notice to the state government and posted the matter for hearing on September 20.

Apart from the 25-year-old woman, her husband, and seven others have jointly moved the court for quashing the FIR.

The woman was also present in the court, where she confirmed to the judge that she wanted to settle the case. She has said that she and her husband have resolved the matter and want to continue living together and therefore, the FIR needs to be quashed.

The petition claims that the woman had filed a complaint with Vadodara police following a matrimonial dispute in April this year, which could have been covered under section 498A of Indian Penal Code that deals with domestic violence. However, according to the petition, the woman's complaint of marital dispute was allegedly twisted by the local police, who filed the FIR under the Freedom of Religion (Amended) Act, rape, unnatural sex, among other charges. She has said she had no idea about the new anti-conversion law back then and neither did she level any of these allegations against her husband and the in-laws.

However, the petition says, "certain religio-political groups intervened in the matter and communalised the said issue by bringing the angle of "love-jihad". Aso, on account of overzealousness of the police officers involved, facts and offences which were never mentioned or alleged by the informant (the woman) came to be inserted in the FIR."

"The petitioners most respectfully submit that contrary to the information's complaint regarding a trivial matrimonial dispute, the allegations in the impugned FIR have been communalized and sensationalised by overzealous police officers at the best of religio-political group," the petition reads. It says that "The male officers have recorded nasty information with explicit sexual details which were never uttered by the informant and even if uttered, ought to have been recorded by a woman police officer."

In June 17, the Vadodara police registered the case against her husband, a Muslim, her in-laws, witnesses and the religious priest. They were booked for forceful religious conversion, cheating into marriage, rape, unnatural sex, criminal conspiraeduled Cascy, and sections of Schtes and Scheduled Tribe (prevention of atrocities) Act, 1989. The woman had alleged that she met her husband through social media in 2019 and in February 2021, she got married under the special marriage act with the consent of their respective parents.

Two weeks after her lodgment of the FIR, she retracted her statement denying charges of forceful conversion, rape, among others. However, the lower court didn't entertain her statement and has refused bail to her in-laws. All the accused are still in judicial custody in jail.

Recently, the Gujarat high court stayed several sections of the controversial Gujarat Freedom of Religion (Amended) Act, 2021 on the ground that these sections treat any interfaith marriage "a criminal" act. Since its implementation from June 15 this year, at least five FIRs have been registered in different parts of the state.
Keeping its eye on Jammu and Kashmir, the Pakistan's intelligence wing - Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) has been sending the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) cadre to Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) with an aim to hit J&K in a big way.

As per the latest intelligence inputs, these ISKP cadres were released from the Afghanistan jails recently and had returned to Pakistan and now the ISI has instructed them to execute its agenda in the Valley.

The sources have revealed that the security agencies in Kashmir have tracked the movement and presence of ISKP commander Munsib who has been reportedly coordinating with various terror outfits for this purpose. He has been active on social media for the past few months, they added.

Read | India, Russia discuss situation in Afghanistan

Around 25 youths from Kerala have recently gone to Afghanistan and had joined the ISKP cadre, now the inputs are coming that ISI can use those radicalised youths of Kerala to carry out attacks in India, the sources further said, adding that their movements are on the agencies' radar.

After the Taliban occupation in Afghanistan, the ISI has been actively planning to push its trained and supported terror outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba and al-Badr into the union territory for the last two months and now the ISKP ultras to various launch pads in PoK along with the line of control, the sources in the intelligence agencies also revealed.

The intelligence inputs also confirmed that the launch pads in Pakistan have been humming with activity near the border indicating an increase in planning for infiltration. These launch pads were abandoned after a ceasefire was announced in February this year.

Indian security agencies are also getting inputs that the presence of Pashtun speaking terrorists in some of the terrorist camps located in PoK, which has increased the possibilities of ISKP ultras in these launch pads near the border areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

"The J&K Police is aggressively trying to track down those over-ground workers who can give shelter to foreign terrorists and make their mission even easier. They are constantly trying to ensure that the infiltrating terrorists do not find any hideout or take shelter in the villages of Kashmir", a senior official in the security set up said.

Reiterating zero tolerance to terrorism, CRPF Director General Kuldeep Singh and J&K Police Chief Dilbagh Singh have said that the security forces are on high alert and ready to handle security situation arising from the development in Afghanistan even if they try to infiltrate with latest weapons.

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Saying that prison inmates do not cease to be human beings and can't be deprived of the fundamental right to life, the Bombay High Court on Thursday directed the Maharashtra government to transfer alleged Maoist leader Nirmala Uppuganti from jail to a hospice for palliative care on account of her terminal cancer.

Uppuganti, an accused in the 2019 Gadchiroli IED blast case, had filed a plea through senior counsel Yug Chaudhry and advocate Payoshi Roy, asking to be shifted to a hospice for palliative care so that she was "properly taken care of during her final days."

A bench of Justices S S Shinde and N J Jamadar directed the state prison authorities to shift Uppuganti from the Byculla women's prison in Mumbai to a hospice by September 15.

Read more: Prisoners blood remains taboo despite Kerala HC ruling

The state's counsel, Sangeeta Shinde, however, had opposed Uppuganti's plea. The state counsel told the HC Uppuganti was accused of a serious offence and was able to move on her own and had been provided the help of two other inmates to take care of her in prison.

The government counsel said as per the advice of Uppuganti's doctors, the prison authorities were taking her to the Tata Memorial Centre, a cancer hospital in Mumbai, three times a week for treatment.

In its order on Thursday, the HC, however, said though Uppuganti was accused of a serious offence and charged under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), refusing her palliative care would breach her fundamental right to protection of life and liberty guaranteed by Article 21 of the Constitution.

"It is trite that the right to life guaranteed to every person by Article 21 of the Constitution is a basic postulate of human right. A prisoner, be he a convict or under-trial or a detenu, does not cease to be a human being, and even when lodged in the jail, he is not deprived of his right to life guaranteed to him under Article 21 of the Constitution, which includes the right to obtain medical treatment," the HC observed.

"A prisoner cannot be deprived of health services as it would violate the guarantee conferred under Article 21 of the Constitution of India," the bench said.

The HC took note of Uppuganti's medical reports that showed that she had metastatic cancer (in advanced stage) that had spread to multiple organs. It said while Uppuganti was undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy, at such advanced stage of cancer, palliative care seemed "indispensable" to minimise her pain and suffering.

"The petitioner has a legitimate right to expect palliative care and nursing," the HC said while directing the jail authorities to transfer Uppuganti from prison to the Shanti Avedna Sadan hospice centre in the city for 12 weeks.

The court directed that the prison authorities must coordinate with the hospice centre and the Tata Memorial Centre to ensure Uppuganti continued receiving her ongoing medical treatment.

The HC directed the state authorities to transfer Uppuganti to the hospice by September 15 and to provide her with necessary police escort there. It also permitted Uppuganti to have telephonic access to her husband Satyanarayan Rani, her co-accused in the case, who is currently lodged in the Arthur Road Central Prison in Mumbai.

Uppuganti is an accused in the case related to the IED ( improvised explosive device) attack carried out by Naxals in Gadchiroli district of eastern Maharashtra on May 1, 2019. As many as 15 security personnel from the Gadchiroli Quick Response Team and one civilian were killed in the deadly explosion.

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Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Thursday said Kalaburagi would get a BJP Mayor even as the JD(S) appears adamant on them getting the top post.

Discussions are still in their preliminary stages. I won't comment on anything now. But you can be sure that the Mayor will be from BJP," Bommai said.

In the 55-member Kalaburagi City Corporation, Congress has 27 seats, BJP 23, JD(S) four and one Independent. Support of the JD(S) is key for both the Congress and BJP to assume power.

The CMs assertion comes a day after four JD(S) councillors, who are being chased by both BJP and Congress for an alliance, met their party honchos HD Deve Gowda and H D Kumaraswamy. They are of the opinion that they should join hands with the party that cedes the Mayors chair to them.

In his meeting with BJP national president J P Nadda in New Delhi earlier this week, Bommai said that Cabinet expansion was not discussed. "As he was not keeping well, the meeting was brief. He has advised me to give more importance to party organisation in view of future elections," Bommai said.

Also Read  Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai meets BJP president J P Nadda

Bommai said that he had sought a report from the Health Department and experts on the behaviour of Nipah virus and how it could affect the state. "We will have a discussion today evening."

According to Bommai, his visit to New Delhi was fruitful. "The Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR) from Dobaspet to Mysuru Road, which was pending for 2-3 years, will get clearances. Work will start in the next five to six months," he said.

Also, expansion of the National Highway between Vijayapura and Sankeshwar will also be taken up along with four other highways, according to the CM.

The suburban railway project will be taken up shortly. Work on rail lines between Davangere and Tumakuru, Hubballi and Belagavi, and Bidar and Kalaburagi will also begin as soon as possible.

During discussion with Union minister Rajeev Chandrashekar, a decision to set up a 'Hardware Park' between Bengaluru and Kolar was made. There is also a proposal to set up a Skill University, which we are examining, Bommai said.


Telangana became the first state in the country to launch a trial run for delivering vaccines by drones to healthcare centres in remote areas.

The two-day trial run of drones under the state government's 'Medicine from the Sky' project began on Thursday in Vikarabad town.

Vikarabad District Collector K Nikhila formally inaugurated the trial run in the parade ground.

Boxes weighing 2-3 kgs took off from the Vikarabad district hospital for primary healthcare centres 500 metres away, flying to an altitude of up to 400 feet.

"This is the first time in India that trial run is being conducted to use drone technology to deliver vaccines or medicines to remote areas," she said.

The three-phase trial will see six flights a day, with each drone carrying 175 vaccines in temperature-controlled boxes.

The project will be formally launched on September 11 by Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Telangana Industries and Information Technology Minister K T Rama Rao.

The 'Medicine from the Sky' is an initiative of the Telangana government, spearheaded by the Emerging Technologies Wing of the ITE&C Department, in partnership with World Economic Forum, NITI Aayog, and HealthNet Global (Apollo Hospitals).

The project entails undertaking experimental Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) drone flights for delivery of vaccines using the identified airspace of the Vikarabad district.

The project has received the final regulatory nod from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Three of the eight selected consortia, namely Bluedart Med Express Consortium (Skye Air), Hepicopter Consortium (Marut Drones), and CurisFly Consortium (TechEagle Innovations), have already reached Vikarabad and have started testing of their drones, via VLOS and BVLOS flights.

With the launch, the consortia would continue to further test the endurance of their drones over increasing longer distances and heavier payloads to establish the reliability, officials said. The project is the first of its kind in India as it is the first organised BVLOS drone trials in the country and the same are being conducted in healthcare as the domain.

Indian drone delivery start-up firm Skye Air Mobility, which is a part of the consortium for the project, will conduct the majority of drone flights. Skye Air has joined hands with Blue Dart Express to provide drone-based delivery and drone flights to conduct these trials.

MFTS Project's first two days of the trials will be flying in the visual line of sight, which involves drones flying between 500 to 700 meters from the base and they can be seen with the naked eye.

From September 11 onwards, BVLOS drone flights will take place for 9-10 km distances. These flights will be with consignments of vaccine, medical samples, and other healthcare items.

"We are extremely delighted to be a part of this project with the Telangana government and our tie-up with leading firms to give the first live demonstration trials which are being conducted in real time with real vaccines & medicines being carried," Skye Air Mobility Co-Founder Swapnik Jakkampundi said.

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US acting ambassador Atul Keshap met RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday.

After the meeting, Keshap said he held a "good discussion" with Bhagwat on how "India's tradition of diversity, democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism can ensure the vitality and strength of a truly great nation."

"Good discussion with @RSSorg Shri Mohan Bhagwat about how India's tradition of diversity, democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism can ensure the vitality and strength of a truly great nation," Keshap tweeted.

Good discussion with @RSSorg Shri Mohan Bhagwat about how India's tradition of diversity, democracy, inclusivity, and pluralism can ensure the vitality and strength of a truly great nation. pic.twitter.com/FB5gizzFuI  U.S. Ambassador to India (@USAmbIndia) September 8, 2021

On Tuesday, Keshap met Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.

"Pleasure to meet with @priyankagandhi and reflect on the long history of #USIndia friendship and cooperation," he tweeted after the meeting.

Keshap, the Charge d'Affaires at the US Embassy, held a series of farewell meetings in the last few days as his tenure comes to an end.

"The #USIndia relationship has never been better. Working together, our two great democracies will continue to advance human happiness around the world for years to come. Thank you for your friendship!," he said.

The Biden administration has already announced nomination of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as the next US Ambassador to India.

However, Garcetti's nomination is yet to receive confirmation from the US Senate.

Garcetti was co-chair of Biden's presidential campaign. He has been Mayor of Los Angeles since 2013.
The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed the plea filed by actor Kangana Ranaut seeking quashing of criminal defamation proceedings initiated against her by a Mumbai court based on a complaint filed by writer and lyricist Javed Akhtar.

The applicants (Kangana Ranaut) petition stands dismissed, said Justice Revati Mohite-Dere in her order.

In November 2020, Akhtar had lodged a case of criminal defamation in a magistrates court in Andheri. In his complaint, Akhtar referred to an interview that Kangana gave to a TV channel in the backdrop of the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput, which he claimed, harmed his reputation.

Ranauts counsel Rizwan Siddiquee, had challenged the defamation proceedings on the grounds that the court had failed to apply its mind to the case.

Akhtar's counsel Jay Bharadwaj had contended before the court that the magistrate had directed for the police inquiry after going through the complaint.

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State BJP president Nalin Kumar Kateel said on Thursday that the BJP will use all political strategies to take control of Kalaburagi City Corporation. Speaking to media persons, he said for the first time, the BJP has won 23 seats in the corporation polls in Kalaburagi. "Hence, we will use all strategies to come to power in the 55-member civic body," he told.

Meanwhile, Major Industries Minister Murugesh Nirani has kept everyone guessing by saying, "Wait and see how will we take control of the corporation. The BJP has reached the final in Kalaburagi and will win also. Former chief minister H D Kumaraswamy has not given any assurance on allying with us. But, we are confident that he will support us without any condition."

Indication for Congress-free Karnataka

Speaking at a felicitation programme organised by the newly elected BJP councillors, Kateel said the BJP won three corporation polls and by-election to other local bodies across the state, by wresting Congress fortress.

"It is an indication for Congress-free Karnataka. The voters of the district have made Opposition Leader in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge stay in Bengaluru by ensuring his defeat in the previous Lok Sabha polls. After he entered Rajya Sabha, he again set his eye on Kalaburagi. But, the people of the city has discouraged him by voting for the BJP in the recent corporation polls," he told.

"Before corporation polls, KPCC president D K Shivakumar and Opposition Leader in Legislative Assembly Siddaramaiah had engaged in mudslinging setting their eye on the CM gaddi in the next assembly polls. The people of the state have taught them a good lesson by voting for the BJP candidates," Kateel added.

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Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Thursday said he will be getting a report on the possible impact of Nipah virus infections in the state, and necessary action will be taken to control it.

"Regarding Nipah virus, I have given directions to the Health Secretary and experts. I will get a report on its behaviour in Kerala and its impact on us by this evening, following which necessary action will be taken," Bommai said.

With confirmed cases of the Nipah virus (NiV) infection reported recently in neighboring Kerala, the Karnataka government on Tuesday had directed district administrations, especially those bordering that state, to strengthen surveillance and preparedness.

It said that all those coming from Kerala should be monitored for symptoms like fever, altered mental status, severe weakness, headache, respiratory distress, cough, vomiting, muscle pain, convulsion and diarrhea. In response to a question, Bommai said during his recent visit to Delhi, he discussed with BJP national president J P Nadda on organising the party to win the upcoming elections (for zilla and taluk panchayats, local bodies) and there was no discussion regarding cabinet expansion this time.

He termed his Delhi tour on September 7 and 8, during which he held meetings with several Union Ministers on issues concerning the state, as "successful". On his meetings with Union Ministers, the Chief Minister said the Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR) project from Dabaspet to Mysuru Road that was pending for over two years has now has been cleared and the work will start in four to five months.

The Centre has also agreed for extending the Vijayapura-Sankeshwar highway and DPR will be prepared soon, and four national highways will be developed under the Bharatmala project.

On his meeting with the Minister of State in the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology(MeitY), Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Bommai said "we discussed a special programme for rural connectivity, to develop a hardware park between Bengaluru and Kolar, and to set up a skill university."

Pointing out that Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri has released Rs 400 crore under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana  Urban, the CM said Rs 1,500 crore has still to be released.

Discussions have been held with the Railway Minister regarding suburban railway and development of Byappanahalli station, besides works on some major railway lines in the state, he further said, adding that during his meeting with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman he sought extending the GST compensation period to states beyond 2022.
Released: September 9, 2021

Department of Human Services Acting Secretary Meg Snead joined Delaware County Council Vice Chair Dr. Monica Taylor, Councilwoman Elaine Paul Schaefer, and State Representatives Chris Quinn and Mike Zabel to urge residents at risk of eviction or utility shutoffs due to COVID-19 to apply for assistance available through the Delaware County Emergency Assistance Grant Program.

In March, Delaware County officially launched the Delaware County Emergency Rental Assistance Grant Program, also referred to as DELCO ERA. The program was created for people who are facing eviction so they can pay past due and upcoming rent and pay utility bills to help them stay safely in their homes.

The original federal program, ERA-1 provides over $37 million for Delaware County residents to assist with past due rent and outstanding utility bills. A supplemented program, ERA-2 provides an additional $29.5 million to spend in 2021 and 2022 for the same purposes.

Since the inception of the program, there have been over 9,600 applicants in Delaware County and over 3,600 households in Delaware County have been helped. Over $25 million in grants have already been funded, with the average grant being $6,900.

Most federal pandemic-related unemployment benefit programs have expired or are set to expire. There is still time to take advantage of this program. Council is urging residents who are at risk of eviction or utility shutoff due to COVID-19 to apply for assistance.

This program reflects our core value that government can help residents in need with respect, kindness, and efficiency, said Delaware County Council Vice Chair Dr. Monica Taylor. Delaware Countys goal is to serve as many renters and their property owners and utility companies in a timely manner with the substantial funds made available by the U.S. Treasury and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

About Delco ERA

The program can now provide rental and utility assistance for up to fifteen months of back rent and three months of future assistance for qualifying households. There is no cap on the amount of the monthly rent and/or utility assistance as in previous rental assistance programs.

There is one application per household.

Grant funds are paid directly to the landlord or property manager and/or the utility company.

Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first qualified and approved basis until program funds are depleted.

Applicants must provide evidence of disruption and/or loss due to the COVID pandemic

Delaware County embraces the mission of DELCO ERA to provide COVID-19 recovery funds for a diverse range of renters and also to the rental housing sector and our local utilities, said Delaware County Councilwoman Elaine Paul Schaefer. Delaware County is doing its part, in partnership with the Commonwealth and U.S Treasury to bring relief and peace of mind to our community.

When employment is at risk, housing security is at risk. The pandemic is a health crisis that has the direct ripple effect of an economic and affordable housing crisis. Council is urging residents who are eligible to apply as soon as possible and asking members of the community to share this information with residents who can benefit.

How to Apply

Residents who earn 80% or less of the area median income for household size are eligible. Applicants must provide evidence of disruption and/or loss due to the COVID pandemic.

Eligibility and instructions to apply can be found here: www.delco-era.com

Residents can email or call for assistance:

Email: info@delco-era.com

Call: (484) 729-4200

DELCO ERA offers in-person application intake sessions at the Countys Upper Darby Office, Chester City Hall, and through the Multicultural Community Family Services and the Delaware County Immigrant Coalition. For more details and the schedule, visit www.delco-era.com

Over 1,300 residents have been assisted in person with the application process. Program staff are eager to serve residents in need of assistance.

Over the summer the County made several enhancements to the DELCO ERA program to work more closely with the Countys court system to help tenants facing eviction, help tenants who have unresponsive or uncooperative landlords, and help tenants with re-housing options.

Pennsylvanians fearing eviction do not have to go through this alone. The program provides an unprecedented investment in stability, well-being, and economic recovery for tenants, landlords, and utility providers as well as entire communities across the commonwealth, said DHS Acting Secretary Meg Snead. Evictions and housing insecurity will affect our economic recovery, our workforce, our schools, and all parts of our society. ERAP makes evictions preventable, and they should be an absolute last resort. I urge people to take advantage of the help that is available to protect themselves and apply for ERAP now.
Derry, NH (03038)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 85F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening giving way to periods of light rain late. Low 64F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%.
Foyle MP, Colum Eastwood, launched a scathing attack on the UK Government, after a vote to raise National Insurance contributions was passed in the House of Commons last night.

The SDLP leader, along with his colleague Claire Hanna, voted against the planned rise but the vote was won comfortably by the Conservative Government  319 votes to 248  as rumours of a Tory rebellion petered out with only five of their MPs voting against it.

Londonderry East MP, Gregory Campbell, was one of three DUP MPs to abstain with the other five joining Mr Eastwood in voting against it.

Those in Derry who earn 20,000 a year will see an increase of 130 to their National Insurance contributions while those earning 30,000 will see a hike of 255.

Eastwood slammed the proposal saying that the UK Government's social care plan is an attack on Derry's young people and working families.

He added that the vote  which covers social care in England only  will disproportionately hurt young people and working families in Northern Ireland who have already suffered because of the Coronavirus pandemic.

Mr Eastwood said: The Tory party has shown that not only are they willing to attack our devolution, but they are also content on heaping financial pressure on our young people and working families to help pay for health and social care in England.

We have again witnessed that this Tory government is willing to mass the burden of this recovery on those most in need. In February, the number of people in Derry on Universal Credit sat at 6,960.

Those in or in search of work will be saddled with this burden and, to add insult to injury, lose around 1,000 a year after the Tory cut in the uplift. This is unjust.

The SDLP voted against these proposals last night and will always support those in need to create a more fair and equitable society.
Local councils have been marking National Emergency Services Day by meeting those who risk their lives to help others in the community.

Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Paul McLean, met with NHS and emergency services representatives to personally thank them for their service.

"Emergency Services 999 Day is your chance to support the heroic men and women of the NHS and emergency services," he said.

"Not many people will be fortunate enough to never have to make that vital 999 call during their lifetime- whether its for themselves, their family, their friends or indeed for a complete stranger who requires immediate assistance.

"In many cases, the actions of these quick-thinking first responders can literally mean the difference between life and death. We celebrate and are grateful for our emergency services today, and every day."

Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council with the official Emergency Services Day flag.

Meanwhile, the official Emergency Services Day flag is flying at Cloonavin, headquarters of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

The council building will also be illuminated in red light as a sign of support for the Air Ambulance, which provides helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS), working in direct partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

Mayor Richard Holmes thanked those who put their lives at risk.

"Its too easy to overlook the importance of our emergency services, but when they are needed, they are always there," he said.

"In many cases, they enter dangerous and traumatic situations when many others would be going the other way and for this, we are truly grateful.

Every day, lives are saved thanks to the collective bravery and skills of all our emergency services, and this is what I want to reflect on.

"The pandemic encouraged all of us to express our thanks and gratitude to those who dedicate their lives to protecting others, and I hope this is a legacy which will continue beyond the health crisis.

As well as promoting the work of the emergency services, the 999 Day campaign also promotes the importance of using emergency services responsibly, educates the public about basic lifesaving skills, and highlights the many career and volunteering opportunities available within the services.
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Bombay HC quashes Kangana Ranaut's appeal to dismiss defamation case filed against her by Javed Akhtar

The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a plea filed by actor Kangana Ranaut seeking the quashing of proceedings initiated against her by a local court on a criminal defamation complaint filed by lyricist Javed Akhtar.

Justice Revati Mohite-Dere said in the order that there was no procedural illegality or irregularity in the Andheri metropolitan magistrate's order initiating the proceedings.

Ranaut, in the petition filed through her lawyer Rizwan Siddiquee, had challenged the defamation proceedings initiated earlier this year, saying the magistrate's court did not independently examine the complainant (Akhtar) or witnesses. It relied solely on the report filed by Juhu police, the petition contended.

Advocate Siddiquee argued that the police's inquiry into Akhtar's complaint was "one sided." Also, the police collected signed statements from witnesses illegally, he alleged.

Akhtar's lawyer Jay Bharadwaj argued that the magistrate directed police inquiry only after going through the complaint and excerpts of the interview in which Ranaut had made the alleged defamatory comments.

The police summoned witnesses and Ranaut herself during its inquriy, but the actor never responded to the summons, he claimed.

In its order, the HC held that the Andheri court had followed the procedure prescribed by the Code of Criminal Procedure.

The magistrate personally examined Akhtar and went through the detailed complaint, the high court noted.

"As far as the impugned order issuing process is concerned, the same is not solely based on the police report, but is a combined analysis of the verification of the statement of the complainant, averment in the complaint, the CD/pen-drive, police report, and other documents on record," the HC said.

The signed witness statements taken by the police were not illegal and their credibility can be examined by the magistrate's court later on, Justice Mohite-Dere said.

Akhtar filed a complaint against Ranaut in November 2020 before the Andheri metropolitan magistrate, accusing her of making defamatory and baseless comments against him in a TV interview.

In December, the magistrate's court directed the suburban Juhu police to conduct an inquiry. The police said in their report that an offense of defamation was made out against Ranaut on the face of it, and further probe was required.

The magistrate then initiated criminal proceedings against Ranaut and issued a summons to her in February under CrPC section 202.

"The (magistrate's) order issuing process dated 1st February 2021 reflects application of mind and hence, warrants no interference," the high court said.
Ranbir Kapoor found Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Baiju Bawra to be a 'boring script', Deepika Padukone denied equal pay as Ranveer?

Sanjay Leela Bhansalis upcoming project Baiju Bawra has been the subject of a lot of speculations and conversations. Several reports in the past few months have speculated over the casting of the film where the names of Ranveer Singh and Ranbir Kapoor were said to be considered.

While according to whatever is known so far, Ranveer Singh has bagged the part making Birju Bawra his fourth collaboration with the filmmaker. Reports have also been rife about Deepika Padukone being approached for being the leading lady but it turns out now that the actress has refused the Bhansali film.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhansali Productions (@bhansaliproductions)

A report in Bollywood Hungama has now claimed to reveal the real reasons behind Ranbir and Deepika refusing to star in Sanjay Leela Bhansalis upcoming film. According to a source of the portal Ranbir who was launched into Bollywood by the filmmaker in Saawariya in 2007, did not have a pleasant experience working with the filmmaker and vouched not to work with him again. That may have been true so far, but the star was approached for Birju Bawra and he turned it down because he feels that it is a boring script with restricted appeal.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bhansali Productions (@bhansaliproductions)

Deepika was the second actor to have turned Sanjay Leela Bhansali away for Baiju Bawra since she demanded her pay to be equally good as her husband Ranveer Singh who is the leading star of the project now. The report claims that Deepika was denied the amount and since she already has several big-ticket films in her lineup up she gave preference to starring in Fighter opposite Hrithik Roshan. According to the source, the aerial action film is giving the actress an opportunity to explore something fresh with a meaty and action-packed role.

It has further been claimed that she will be busy with her film with Prabhas for the most part of next year and doesnt want to end up repeating the same things like pairing up with Ranveer on-screen in Bhansalis project.
Statement by Minister Simon Coveney in response to the speech by DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson

Statement

Responding to the speech by DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson this morning, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney T.D said:

"We take unionist concerns in relation to the protocol seriously and we have consistently sought to listen and engage with those concerns, just as we have with the perspectives of everyone across Northern Ireland. The Taoiseach and Tanaiste met with Jeffrey Donaldson to discuss these issues in detail in the last two weeks.

"However, no positive agenda is served by blocking practical North/South Cooperation or by the breakdown of the other institutions of the Good Friday Agreement.

"The North South Ministerial Council has an important agenda this autumn including on improving health services, managing environmental challenges, cooperating in education and investing in infrastructure. As we emerge from the Covid pandemic, we should be focussed on working together to support communities and businesses across the island.

"We believe people want to see a positive commitment from everyone to resolve issues, not the creation of any new cliff edges or instability.

"The EU is already listening closely to concerns in Northern Ireland and is ready to work in good faith to minimise friction.

"Vice President Sefcovic is in Belfast today listening to voices across the whole of Northern Ireland society and business and engaging on the issues, and the opportunities, around the Protocol.

"Ireland has been, and will continue to be, a strong voice at EU level to encourage solutions and I look forward to speaking to Vice President Sefcovic tomorrow to engage further on the detail. Our focus should be on achieving positive progress. We remain confident that solutions do exist, within the parameters of the Protocol, for the issues that have arisen."

ENDS

Press Office

9 September 2021

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IT could be that weve entered the age of cryptocurrency, with this often volatile medium of exchange gaining more and more mass popularity, with even El Salvador becoming the first country to accept Bitcoin as legal tender. The scammers and hackers are also coming up with new ways to scam people out of their money using the cryptocurrency mining hype.

Last month Google banned 8 such fake cryptocurrency mining apps from the Play Store.

The fake cryptocurrency mining apps banned by Google:

1. BitFunds  Crypto Cloud Mining

2. Bitcoin Miner  Cloud Mining

3. Bitcoin (BTC)  Pool Mining Cloud Wallet

4. Crypto Holic  Bitcoin Cloud Mining

5. Daily Bitcoin Rewards  Cloud Based Mining System

6. Bitcoin 2021

7. MineBit Pro - Crypto Cloud Mining & BTC miner

8. Ethereum (ETH) - Pool Mining Cloud

These malicious apps were flagged by a security farm named Trend Micro. A report from this company mentioned, Despite these apps not being associated with cloud-mining operations or having any cryptocurrency-mining features, some of these apps prompt users to pay for increased cryptocurrency-mining capabilities via the apps in-app billing systems that range from $14.99 to as high as $189.99. Through those in-app purchases users were convinced that they were upgrading their "crypto mining machines" to mine more coins each day. Apart from the in-app purchase scam users had to view ads, and these apps also had a monthly subscription of $15 (1114 approx.)

Our innate desire to get rich quickly is the working principle of these scammers. All of these apps were tricking users to "invest" in "cloud mining services", a new way to mine bitcoin quickly, without the hassle of actually owning a mining machine. In the end, none of these users could retrieve their money, they were scammed out of their hard-earned money.

Though the above-mentioned apps were removed from Play Store, they still remain installed on those smartphones where they have already been installed once. So users have to go through their apps drawer and uninstall any of the above-mentioned apps. What is even more worrying is that TrendMicro claims of more than 120 fake cryptocurrency mining apps are still being used by users completely unaware of its harm! Also, the scammers are working hard every day to put more and more of these cryptocurrency mining apps in the Play Store.

So now the question that arises is, what can one do? Stay away from cryptocurrency mining? Of course not! Only a few smart steps can save one from being victimized by these kinds of scams.

Steps to avoid fake cryptocurrency mining apps:

1. Users must check the reviews before downloading any cryptocurrency mining app from Play Store.

2. If any app claims to waive the handling and conversion fees then there's a high chance of that app being fake, as those rates are very high.

3. Another way to find if the cryptocurrency mining app is fake, is by putting a random set of letters and numbers at the cryptocurrency wallet address section. If it accepts anything, then it's a fake cryptocurrency mining app.

4. After mining some cryptocurrency, one should restart their device. If the counter resets to zero, then it's a fake app.

Only following such simple steps and using some common sense can save one from being scammed out of their hard-earned money.
If cryptocurrency is the future, are we looking at a world barren of fossil fuels?With the increase in the popularity of bitcoin, mining has sped up tremendously followed by an alarming increase in the consumption of electricity. In the last five years, the price of Bitcoin has increased by 5 times. What was then worth $500 is now worth $50,000 and it is no wonder everyone is out there competing to get the highest mining done since miners receive a share of the Bitcoin.What they are forgetting in the process is that mining comes at a price. Where so many computers are being used to solve the critical mathematical problems involved in the process, they are being fueled by electricity. This excess usage of energy contributes largely to global climate change and the degeneration of natural resources. The New York Times recently published a report that outlines the power used by the crypto mining process. While we do not know for sure the figures invested in terms of electricity, we surely can get a slight idea with the help of this report. The most astonishing fact shared was that Bitcoin mining consumes around 91 terawatt-hours of electricity each year.What's more is that when compared to Finland with a population of 5.5 million people, it's the same amount of energy used in that country while as for the state of Washington, it's the same ratio. Furthermore, when looking at the electricity consumed in the US cooling system, Bitcoin mining also equates to it. The electricity consumed amounts to 0.5% of the global consumption. This is a huge jump from where it was 5 years ago, detecting a 10x jump. Lastly, what amazes us is the fact that this electricity consumption exceeds what Google uses every year by 7 times.As the demand for Bitcoin grows, so does the demand for massive resources to conduct the mining. Where a single Bitcoin could be mined back in 2011 with the help of an everyday computer, it requires a huge setup with electricity worth 13 years of domestic consumption to produce a single Bitcoin.While there are various advantages accompanying this currency of the future, there is a longer list of cons. Iran's recent outage of electricity was also blamed on Bitcoin while half the global warming also might be a result of this extensive mining fiasco. Even Bill Gates, earlier this year, declared that Bitcoin wasn't exactly the most eco-friendly device. As a result many crypto managers are trying to shift their focus on demanding problems like lowering the damage caused by Bitcoin mining.While these managers are trying to focus more on the E and S instead of just the G of ESG, we're not too sure whether there will be any positive outcome. For now, we can only hope for the best and reduce polythene use.Photo: lars Hagbarg | AFP | Getty ImagesRead next: How much does it cost to set up a business in every country?
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VANCOUVER, B.C.,  Ritchie Bros. has announced that its chief operating officer, Jim Kessler, will take on the additional role of president, effective immediately.

The president role will align our global revenue, services, operations, and critical support functions under Jim's leadership, said Ritchie Bros. CEO Ann Fandozzi. As we accelerate our growth strategy as a company, we need a more integrated view of our strategic initiatives, resources, and talent. Jim's holistic approach to sales, marketing, and operations, makes him the ideal leader to drive topline growth and profitability from our transaction solutions.





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StoryBuilt names project for rescued seal







StoryBuilt, of Austin, has a few multifamily projects in varying stages of progress in our market. One townhouse project just got a new name: Stanley, with 19 units to be sold after completion at 6600 Carleton Ave. S. in Georgetown. (That's the former home of Hope Christian Community Church, which StoryBuilt acquired two years ago for $2.5 million.) StoryBuilt generally acts as its own designer and contractor, and will break ground this fall, the company says. Prices will run from the low $300,000s for a 400-square-foot studio to the low $800,000s for a 1,750-square-foot, three-bedroom townhouse. The complex will feature a mural from Will Schlough and Urban Artworks to honor Stanley the seal and other marine life. StoryBuilt's Ben Rutkowski said in a statement, We want to engage with the community by giving back through our non-profit partners as much as we can, to create awareness and help others, animals, and the environment. We have a long-term plan to build big here in Seattle, and this is just the beginning. Stanley the seal was rescued and later returned to the wild by the local nonprofit SR3. StoryBuilt is nearing completion on the 16-unit Winston in Ravenna, and is planning 215 units in Columbia City.




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Buyer Pulte Homes is planning what it calls 358 Degrees, with 48 condo units plus 36 townhouses in eight smaller buildings.



The 2.7-acre former Westminster Community Church property in Shoreline, at 14550 Westminster Way N., has sold for just over $10 million, according to King County records.

The buyer was Pulte Homes, which is planning what it calls 358 Degrees. That 84-unit project, designed by Board and Vellum and Dahlin Group, is planned to have a four-story, 48-unit condominium building, plus 36 townhouses in eight smaller buildings.





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The Iranian Studies Unit of the Arab Center for Research and Policy Studies held its annual conference from 16-18 August 2021. This years conference was on the topic of Institutions and Politics in Iran.

The three-day conference, featuring a selection of scholars specialized in Iran, examined the institutional makeup of the Islamic Republic and the power arrangements that characterize the Iranian political system. Placing the birth and evolution of the Islamic Republic within a broader context of Iranian history, the conference examined the changes and transformations that various Iranian political institutions have undergone since the state was first established more than forty years ago. Specific focus was on changes to the institutions of the presidency, the Revolutionary Guards, the Majles, the judiciary, the office of the Velayat-e Faqih, and the foreign policy establishment.

The conference began with opening remarks by Mehran Kamrava, Head of the Iranian Studies Unit and Professor of Government at Georgetown University in Qatar. Kamrava noted that the conference will examine the elected and unelected institutions of the Islamic Republic, including the formal, informal, and semi-formal institutions and networks that create a complex political system.



Shireen Hunter started the first session by presenting her paper on The Islamic Republic of Iran in Historical and Institutional Perspective: Ruptures and Continuities. Hunter argued how the establishment of the Islamic Republic was a major rupture in Iranian history and a historic break from the countrys past. She highlighted the importance of religion both before and after the revolution but argued that there had never been a religiously based state in the country prior to 1979. Another significant break occurring in 1979 was Irans transformation from a monarchy to a republic.

This was followed by Arang Keshavarzians presentation on Protests, Participation, and Representation in an Improvisational Polity. Keshavarzian situated protests as part of foundational qualities of the Islamic Republic and conceptualized them as extra-institutional rather than necessarily anti-regime. The power of protests stems from their ability to change what constitutes acceptable political behavior, by challenging or stretching the legal boundaries that authorities have drawn. According to Keshavarzian, protests can be better understood as a response to deeper aspects of a specific crisis of representation.

Alireza Eshraghi rounded off the first days session with his discussion on The Evolution of the Revolutionary Guards. Eshraghi highlighted the various functions of the Revolutionary Guards, claiming that it is difficult to pinpoint a sphere of activity in which the institution does not play a direct or indirect role. The Revolutionary Guards have justified their influence and power as a means of safeguarding the revolutions goals. This has facilitated their rapidly structural and functional expansion in almost every aspect of Iranian politics.



The second day of the conference, on 17 August 2021, began with Wilfried Buchtas presentation on An Institution in Permanent Flux: Irans Presidency from 1980 to 2021. Buchta discussed the responsibilities of the presidency, the transformations it has undergone since 1980, and the factors that determine the relationship between the revolutionary leader and the president. According to Buchta, since the death of Khomeini in 1989, the relationship between the two heads of state, the revolutionary leader, and the president, has been characterized by two poles: cooperation and competition.



This was followed by Alireza Raisis presentation on The Majles: Role, Composition, and Significance. Raisi explored the significance of the Majles in the post-Khomeini era and explained the transformation of its role in recent decades. He situated the evolution of the Majles in a broader power struggle over the future of the Islamic Republic. Raisi argued that this struggle is consolidating the power of the hardliner wing of the Iranian ruling elite and gradually undermining the Majles constitutional authority over legislation and oversight.

Amir Mahdavi continued the discussion on the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by analyzing their role within Iranian politics. He traced the roots of the IRGCs current significance through examining the history of its establishment and its evolution. In doing so, Mahdavi highlighted the IRGCs regional presence and its expansive economic activities. Mahdavi claimed that this evolving entity is more a product of the interactions of powerful domestic and foreign forces than a deliberate creation by the Islamic Republic state meant to safeguard its position.

The closing session, on 18 August 2021, began with Abdolrasool Divsallars presentation on Irans Foreign Policy Establishments. Divsallar argued that the privileged access of elites to resources, legal rights, and information, combined with the countrys constant state of emergency due to its strategic environment, have all influenced the evolution of foreign policy institutions in Iran. He went on to explain the decision-making processes and the institutions involved in the formulation of Irans foreign policy, as well as the manners of their interactions with one another.

Shahram Akbarzadeh and Mahmoud Pargoo discussed Elections in Iran: Rewards and Risks for Authoritarian Rule. Akbarzadeh and Pargoo looked at elections in Iran and examined the way the ruling elite seeks to maximize the public relations value of elections to enhance its political legitimacy. Some of the rewards of elections include providing the regime with domestic and international legitimacy; enabling it to shift the blame of its policy failures on the opposition; and serving as a safety valve by preventing the radicalization of the opposition. According to the two scholars, elections are a mix of risks and rewards for the regime.

Hamideh Dorzadeh concluded the session by presenting on Islamic Republics Judiciary in Transition. Dorzadeh examined the structure, evolution, and function of the judiciary since the establishment of the Islamic Republic. She argued that since 1989 the judiciary has been used as a political tool to repress dissent within the system and that the institution has consistently worked to strengthen the position of the Supreme Leader instead. This has come at the expense of safeguarding the rights of the people. Dorzadeh focused on the role of the head of the judiciary and discussed the various reforms and changes sought by insider clerics who have held the position since the Islamic Republic was first established.


ADA [ndash] Graveside Services for Delbert Gene Wallis, 96, of Byng, was 10 a.m. Monday, Sep. 13, 2021, at Rosedale Cemetery, David Gray officiated. Mr. Wallis passed away Friday, Sep. 10, 2021, at his home. He was born March 13, 1925. He retired from Ideal Cement. Survivors are his three so
One million euro in funding has been announced for social enterprises nationwide to allow them purchase equipment.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys announced the funding on Tuesday.

The Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 will provide funding for the purchase of equipment or the carrying out of repairs or refurbishments to enable social enterprises to improve their service delivery.

The scheme supports one of the key commitments in the National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland 2019-2022  Growing and Strengthening Social Enterprise.

The Department of Rural and Community Development is now inviting social enterprises across the country to apply for funding under the scheme.

"I am delighted to be in a position today to announce the launch of the one million euro Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 which will support social enterprises across Ireland that are providing valuable services in their communities," Minister Humphreys said.

"This scheme will provide small grants to social enterprises with the cost of capital projects such as refurbishments, repairs or the purchase of new equipment."Approximately 120 social enterprises from all across Ireland will receive support under the scheme," Minister Humphreys added.
Louth has received a boost with 200,000 in indoor dining funding announced by Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin T.D and Failte Ireland.

The funding, which will go to both Carlingford and Dundalk, is among 38 permanent outdoor dining facilities set to be developed in 19 counties nationwide.

Failte Irelands Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme opened for applications in March 2021 and comprises two parts. This announcement relates to Part Two of the Scheme.

118,000 has been granted to develop The Green in Carlingford, while 82,000 is set to go to develop more outdoor dining facilities on Earl Street in Dundalk.

All Local Authorities were invited to apply to Failte Ireland for funding under Part Two - Local Authority Weatherproofing & Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme - to develop streets and public spaces to facilitate outdoor dining in urban tourism centres, enabling access to outdoor seating for extended periods throughout the year. 38 locations are set to benefit under the Scheme with almost 9million allocated.

Part One of the scheme covers outdoor seating and accessories - supports individual hospitality businesses with grants of up to 4,000 for seating, tables and outdoor accessories. Closing date for receipt of applications is September 30, 2021.

Minister for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport, Gaeltacht and Media, Catherine Martin T.D and Paul Kelly CEO Failte Ireland were in Howth, Co Dublin to make the official announcement.

Minister Catherine Martin said: I am pleased to announce the locations of 38 new outdoor dining facilities to be developed around Ireland including here in Howth, in County Dublin. The aim of this Scheme is to support tourism and hospitality jobs and help businesses develop new ways of catering for domestic and international tourists outdoors. Access to outdoor dining facilities will continue to be a key part of industry recovery as we look forward to 2022 and beyond. This scheme further strengthens the Governments deep commitment to develop tourism and necessary infrastructure nationwide.

Paul Kelly CEO of Failte Ireland added: This Scheme supports resilience and survival in the short term and the recovery of the tourism sector in the long-term. Outdoor dining and hospitality will now be a permanent feature of our hospitality offering and businesses need to be supported to facilitate this for longer periods throughout the year. We have already seen the success of the first part of this Scheme, which provides individual businesses up to 4,000 towards the cost of outdoor seating.

"This second part of the Scheme being announced today is implemented in partnership with Local Authorities and will build on strengthening the outdoor dining offering around Ireland. We have learned during COVID-19 that people want the option of dining outdoors; this scheme will make dining areas suitable in a wider range of weather conditions so that they can be used for longer periods of the year, helping businesses towards sustainable recovery.

Moira Murrell, Chair of the CCMA Rural Development, Community, Tourism, Culture and Heritage (RCTCH) Committee stated: The implementation of the Local Authority Weatherproofing and Outdoor Dining Enhancement scheme will be hugely beneficial for towns and cities around Ireland, enhancing infrastructure and allowing local hospitality businesses to adapt and develop their offering. We look forward to working with Failte Ireland on the completion of this scheme.

See the locations received funding below:

Carlow County Council

 Main Street, Borris (61,000)

 Tullow Street Upper, Carlow (133,357)

Clare County Council

 Ennis Town Centre, Francis St, Lr Parnell St, Abbey St Car Park, Templegate Plaza (186,975)

Cork City Council

 Beasley St, (236,160)

 Caroline St, (375,083)

 Pembroke St, (302,187)

 Princess St, (112,150)

 Union Quay (284,130)

Cork County Council

 The Quays, Bantry (221,595)

 Short Quay, Kinsale (215,110)

Dublin City Council

 Merrion Row, (255,312)

 Suffolk St, (351,786)

 Capel St (742,095)

Donegal County Council

 Bundoran Oceanside, West End Car Park (126,840)

 Port Road, Letterkenny (137,000)

Fingal County Council

 Harbour Green Howth (600,000)

Kerry County Council

 Boat Yard, Dingle (292,118)

 Kenmare Place, Killarney (604,505)

Kildare County Council

 Main Street, Naas (187,275)

Kilkenny County Council

 Market Yard, Kilkenny City (649,000)

Laois County Council

 Dublin Road, Durrow (32,348)

 Hynd's Square, Portlaoise (129,446)

Limerick City & County Council

 Limerick City (750,000)

Longford County Council

 Main Street, Ballymahon (104,562)

Louth County Council

 The Green, Carlingford (118,000)

 Earl Street, Dundalk (82,000)

Mayo County Council

 Market Square, Castlebar (98,725)

 Market Square, Claremorris (101,300)

Offaly County Council

 O'Connor Square, Bridge St, Millennium Square, Tullamore (200,000)

Sligo County Council

 The Square, Enniscrone (94,772)

 Tobergal Lane, Sligo Town (265,160)

Tipperary County Council

 East Lane & Mary St Mall Clonmel (113,800)

 Old Baker Street, Thurles (86,200)

Waterford City & County Council

 Waterford City Trail - Bailey's New Street to O'Connell Street/John Street (354,919)

 Grattan Square, Dungarvan (151,774)

Wexford County Council

 Monck Street, Wexford Town (228,000)

Wicklow County Council

 Abbey Lane, Arklow (81,000)

 Market Square, Wicklow Town (118,624)
A Louth woman will be working with others in the Government as President of the UN Security Council for the month of September.

Irelands top diplomat to the United Nations, Geraldine Byrne Nason, is originally from Drogheda and has been Irelands permanent representative to the UN since 2017.

Due to Ireland taking over the role of Security Council President for the month of September, Mrs Byrne Nason will chair the meetings of the security council.

In a video released by Irelands UN Mission, Byrne Nason said that Ireland sitting at the top table of the council would be a once-in-a-generation chance.

For Ireland, sitting at the top of the horseshoe table is a once-in-a-generation opportunity, said Mrs Byrne Nason.

Ireland is well aware of how important this month is in bringing States together around the Security Council.

We are a consensus builder at the Security Council and we will spare no effort during our Presidency.

We plan to make a real impact in this presidency and onward throughout our term at the Security Council.

This is only the fifth time Ireland has held the Presidency of the UN Security Council and will only remain on the Security Council until early 2023 when the two year term is set to expire.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin has said that Ireland will be dealing with key international issues during the Presidency, including the ongoing situation in Afghanistan.

As President of the Security Council, we will be dealing with some of the key immediate challenges facing the international community, including the evolving situation in Afghanistan, and an ongoing concerning situation in the Middle East, said an Taoiseach.
Claremont, NH (03743)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 80F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Showers and thundershowers this evening, then cloudy with rain likely overnight. Low near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Claremont, NH (03743)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 80F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Showers and thundershowers this evening, then cloudy with rain likely overnight. Low 59F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
North Andover, MA (01845)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low around 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
North Andover, MA (01845)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 86F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms. Low around 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Just after his first week of official practice, new transfer Jesse Miritello persuaded sever
US$ 25 million loan to National Bank of Kuwait Egypt to fund green energy projects

Projects to support Egyptian small and medium size enterprises and households

EU grants as well as Green Climate Fund co-financing 15 per cent of total loan amount

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is boosting renewable energy and energy efficiency in Egypt with a US$ 25 million loan to the National Bank of Kuwait Egypt (NBKE). Fifteen per cent of the total loan amount is being co-financed by the Green Climate Fund (GCF).

The European Union (EU) will support the financing to NBKE with up to 2,560,000 of EU funds for incentive payments to projects that are successfully implemented and verified. The EU will also provide a comprehensive technical assistance package of up to 6.2 million for all participating financial institutions and their clients, as well as for policy dialogue.

The funds will be on lent to Egyptian small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) and households to finance investments to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The application of new technologies is expected to promote the transition to an environmentally sustainable, low-carbon and climate resilient economy in Egypt.

The GCF and EBRDs partnership for transformation has seen the GCF support six EBRD programmes to the tune of US$ 830 million, catalysing more than US$ 3.6 billion in total project value. The GCF is the worlds largest climate fund, supporting developing-country efforts to respond to the challenges of climate change.

This loan is being extended under the EBRDs Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF), which provides finance and advice to private-sector businesses to support Egypts green economy transition. The facility has a financing pool worth 150 million for energy-efficiency and renewable energy investments.

NBKE is an Egyptian joint stock company and a subsidiary of the NBK group. It has been a partner of the EBRD since 2015, when it agreed an SME loan and a trade finance facility, followed in 2016 by an energy-efficiency loan under the Egypt GEFF.

Egypt is a founding member of the EBRD. To date, the Bank has invested 7.7 billion in the country through 132 projects. Promoting the green economy transition in Egypt by supporting efforts to diversify its energy mix and energy-efficiency investments is one of the Banks priorities in the country.
Seven solar stories from the EBRD regions

The end of summer is nigh. Temperatures are falling and the days are getting shorter.

In the northern hemisphere, summer lasts until the autumnal equinox on 22 September. Many of the EBRDs regions, however, from the Balkans to Turkey and the southern and eastern Mediterranean (SEMED), have sunny weather all year round.

This means that they also have great potential to harness solar energy.

Solar is a primary source of renewable energy, popular around the world. It is typically low cost and easy to install and use. The cost of manufacturing solar panels has plummeted dramatically in the last decade, making them not only affordable but often the cheapest form of electricity, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

There are many environmental advantages of renewable energy, such as lower carbon emissions and reduced air pollution, as well as numerous socioeconomic benefits, such as job creation. As of 2019, around 11.5 million people worldwide worked in the renewable energy sector, according to IRENA, with more than a third of them working in photovoltaics.

The EBRD, its partners and donors have been investing in solar energy for almost three decades. Our projects can often come in unlikely shapes and forms  and there are countless examples, from solar-powered park benches to solar-powered chewing-gum production and local gym heating.

According to the World Bank, around 70 countries boast excellent conditions for solar PV, where average daily output exceeds 4.5 kilowatt hours per installed kilowatt of capacity (kWh/kWp)  enough to boil around 25 liters of water. Countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa regions dominate this category.

The World Bank further finds that high-solar-potential countries tend to have low seasonality in solar photovoltaic output, meaning that the resource is relatively constant from month to month throughout the year. Even in regions such as Central Asia (temperatures in Kazakhstan can fall as low as -45C, for example), solar energy is widely used.

In Kazakhstan, for instance, the EBRD and the local authorities have agreed to develop a long-term cooperation strategy to achieve carbon neutrality in the countrys power sector by 2060. The accord will further cement Kazakhstan's status as a renewable energy leader in Central Asia.

Moreover, a long-term engagement strategy backed by targeted concessional financing from the EBRD and the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) has been instrumental in jump-starting Kazakhstans renewables market. Since 2010, grant funds from the CIFs Clean Technology Fund (CTF) have helped strengthen Kazakhstans enabling environment and facilitated capacity and investment growth in the renewables sector. The EBRD-CIF partnership has enabled the sector to attract billions of dollars in clean energy investment to the country since 2013.





In Croatia, for example, an EBRD client, Ivan Mrvos, built a prototype smart bench to light municipal parks and streets with the help of solar panels. The bench can also charge mobile phones, houses a wi-fi unit and even gathers data on temperature and air pollution. Ivans company, Include, has now placed thousands of these innovative benches in cities around the world, in countries across the European Union (EU) and as far afield as Australia and Abi Dhabi.

In Serbia, meanwhile, you can walk around cities and see some houses with solar panels on the roof. This is a relatively recent development; the use of solar power in residential buildings and individual houses is still in its early stages in Serbia.

The EBRDs Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF) works with local banks to lend funds to residential borrowers for investments in residential energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions. To help homeowners invest in green solutions, the GEFF provides technical assistance and grants, supported by the EU and bilateral donors through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), as well as the Austrian Federal Ministry of Finance.

One recipient is Nikola Raenovic from Belgrade. I believe I will pay off my investment in 7 to 10 years, maybe even sooner, considering the house is completely powered by solar energy, Nikola says. My electricity bills are zero.

With solar panels financed with EBRDs GEFF loan and EU grants for energy efficiency, the house of Nikola Raenovic from Belgrade is now completely powered by solar energy. More videos

Elsewhere, in Turkey, more than 50,000 households have invested in environmentally friendly homes thanks to a lending programme developed jointly by the EBRD, the EU and the CIF.

Business owners, too, have embraced the use of solar energy.

In Tajikistan, the EBRD and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) have aided a gym to invest in climate-friendly technologies, including the installation of solar panels.

In Ukraine, the EBRD, the GEF, the EU and Japan helped a supermarket adopt green technologies, including the installation of 664 photovoltaic panels on the stores roof, which are used to generate maximum electricity at peak times. The stores external lighting is also powered by solar panels on autonomous time lapse, complemented by batteries if necessary.

In Jordan, the EBRD, the German development finance institution, DEG, the GEF, the EU and Spain supported Yellow Door Energy with the development, construction and operation of a portfolio of eight solar photovoltaic plants.

These plants will supply all of the electricity they generate to five private companies  Umniah (telecommunications), Carrefour supermarkets, Safeway supermarkets, Taj Mall (retail industry) and Classic Fashion (garment manufacturing). In total, the plants are expected to reduce CO 2 emissions by more than 49,000 tonnes per year.

And the list of examples goes on, with the EBRD promoting the use of solar energy in nearly all of the economies in which it invests.

The summer may be coming to an end, but the power of the sun is (almost) limitless. Solar power can be generated in numerous ways, all over the planet. It has so many benefits for our everyday lives and, of course, preserves the environment. With this in mind, we have just one wish for the cooler season ahead: let the sun shine!
Festival season is winding down and despite our heavy government pandemic restrictions, many music promoters have made the best out of a bad lot. The Government, thankfully, did support some of these events and brought a little life to the music scene.

The return to full nightlife has been a big talking point and this week some restrictions have been lifted, including some of the more ridiculous guidelines regarding live music. More are to be lifted soon, but we are still miles behind other countries, and the frustration continues as summer becomes autumn. But lets try to remain a little optimistic!

This weekends Soul in the City festival brought some welcome joy to the city streets. Musicians and sound engineers and security guards got some much-needed work.

Added to some wonderful live shows in the Triskel and Marina Market, Soul in the City, with some innovative programming, brought the party to many who wouldnt even have heard of the festival. Their human soul train travelled through the city on Sunday, and cheered up many Cork City revellers, before they held a big open-air block party on Cornmarket Street to finish it all out. Live music by Art Crimes Band, Quangodelic, and The Roaring Forties drew huge crowds to this free event, and I was lucky enough to round things off with a DJ set, too.

It was a great party and, again, it was great to see the streets being taken over by the people, but in a well-organised, responsible way. The music ended at 10pm and the crowds dispersed quickly, and thats important, bearing in mind that there are city residents living nearby.

Soul in the City made strides this year, and it has the potential to make a bigger mark, with a unique celebration of soul food and music. It was all local based and community driven, and, crucially, the on-street activity made it more accessible to everyone. Roll on 2022!

Magic Nights by the Lee was another recent huge success in Cork. Run by Cork City Council and the Good Room in a number of city centre parks  some not traditionally used for music events  its huge variety of artists and events livened up some late summer evenings. My own event in Fitzgeralds Park was a terrific showcase of young Cork music talent, including Sam Healy, Blakkheart, Minnie Marley, King Koko, Jena Keating, and Meghan Murray. I went to another couple of the shows, too, including Mockie Ah, and I was impressed by not only the shows, but the settings. Again, its wonderful to see people enjoying music in our parks.

Doneraile hosted a music-and-arts festival this weekend, too, while the Great Beyond takes place in Kinsale. Mitchelstown is hosting a number of well-known Irish acts in a spinoff from Indiependence, while the Good Room are preparing for the It Takes a Village festival in East Cork. Levis, in Ballydehob, and Connollys, in Leap, have both been busy running shows, and it is wonderful to see some of our venues being used.

Sadly, many have been pretty idle because of the restrictions, but theres finally good news. The Cyprus Avenue venue previously announced a huge autumn and winter series of shows, which have been selling well.

Now, they have added a hip-hop and R&B weekender in October, and they will be welcoming some big names. Jyellowl, Lethal Dialect, Carrie Baxter, Bobbi Arlo, Hazey Haze, and many more will be on stage, including some artists well known to us here in Cork, such as Outsider YP, Spekulativ Fiktion, JayRonic, and Cutting Heads Collective.

This all takes place on the first weekend of October and day and weekend tickets are now available. Some of these artists, such as Bobbi Arlo and Carrie Baxter, have really blown up during the pandemic, so its great to finally have them performing in Cork.

Cyprus Avenue is one of our best-equipped venues and its great to finally see some shows there. They have been restricted largely to streamed shows over the last 16 months. By the end of October, theres a possibility full restrictions will lift, so, hopefully, we can get back to enjoying gigs and clubs properly again!


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One of the fundamental choices that an e-commerce retailer must make is the platform they use to sell their goods and services.

With so many choices of platforms now available, it's important that they make this choice carefully, with an understanding that a platform is a space not just for selling, but for building a brand.

The E-Commerce Times spoke with several e-commerce experts to get their take on how retailers can choose -- and customize -- platforms to get just the right fit between product, culture, and customer.

"A decade ago, an e-commerce platform was often little more than a product catalog and a checkout," Brennan Heyde, vice president of product at Miva, told the E-Commerce Times. "Modern e-commerce platforms act as the central hub of an online business, providing a content management experience and acting as marketing engines.

"E-commerce platforms are becoming more powerful and complex, incorporating features from CRMs, content management systems, and business automation solutions to become the core platform running the entirety of an online business."

A platform, in other words, is not just a store -- it's a place for an e-commerce retailer to connect with customers and create a sense of the brand.

"While there will always be a need for standalone, 'best-of-breed', CRMs and similar solutions -- as e-commerce evolves we're seeing these incorporated into the e-commerce platform and becoming one single, powerful application that manages the whole of an online store," explained Heyde.

"E-commerce platforms are increasingly empowering marketing teams with tools and avenues for them to excel, exercise greater creativity, and execute promotions quickly," he added.

Plan Ahead

Finding the right fit between a brand and a platform is key to success in the e-commerce world.

"As the world increasingly moves online, having a strong online presence is mandatory, meaning retailers must adapt," said Heyde. "Online sellers should be wary of focusing too much on short-term metrics and making the wrong decision when selecting an e-commerce platform.

"An ill-fitting e-commerce platform -- one that cannot grow alongside your business, handle your complex needs, and integrate with your back-end systems -- will ultimately cost your business."

Ideally, a platform is not an unchanging, fixed space, but one that is adaptable to both the business and the consumers who frequent it.

"The right e-commerce platform will help sellers keep up with their consumers' changing needs, preferences, and shopping behavior," Heyde noted.

"Retailers invest time, care, and design into creating unique in-store experiences, why wouldn't they do the same for their online customers? Choosing an e-commerce platform that will grow alongside a business sets that business up for online growth with minimal effort," he reasoned.

Customizing the Space

Once a platform's been chosen, it's vital that it be customized, taking into account the business's particular needs, goals, and clientele. One way a platform can be customized is by building promotions into the design and flow of the site itself.

"It all comes down to creating a holistic image of your customers; creating digital journeys for them that will keep them engaged and returning to your site," Chemi Katz, CEO and co-founder of Namogoo, told the E-Commerce Times.

"No two shoppers are alike, and no two online shopping sessions are alike either, so creating an experience that autonomously tailors the experience for each and every site visit to meet the expectations of the shopper should be the number one priority for every e-commerce brand.

"There are plenty of other brands out there offering goods that shoppers may find comparable, so brands need to ensure that the journey they provide customers wins every single time," Katz advised.

E-tailers can also add special features to a site -- such as appointment scheduling -- to personalize their customers' experience and provide a link between the online and in-store realms.

"The trend right now is to find the right balance between online and in-store personalized experiences, and to provide high touch experiences with less in-person contact," Nancy Liberman, vice president of marketing for JRNI, explained to the E-Commerce Times.

JRNI is an experiential relationship management platform provider for scheduling and managing personalized experiences.

"Consumers are now in control, selecting the channel, time of day, and type of experience they want, and appointments have increased in prominence as a direct response," she observed.

Customizing a platform to allow for appointment setting not only gives consumers a way to interact with the brand, but also gives the brand an opportunity to gather data and information about the customers.

"Appointments provide retailers the ability to collect specific and detailed pieces of data, and to combine it with historic data, and, most importantly, deliver the best experience to each shopper," said Liberman.

"This personalized, one-on-one experience is a differentiator for retailers when it comes to building brand loyalty online, because it creates relationships that consumers don't forget easily, and make them more likely to return to your brand.

"Giving shoppers this experience and doing it in a way that also allows them to select how they want to interact -- in person or virtually, at the time they want, for the type of appointment they'd like, and with the ability to do it all as a touchless interaction -- is what is going to help retailers rise above the competition and keep customers coming back for more," she suggested.

Brand Identity

In addition to choosing a back-end platform for selling, brands must choose -- and customize -- front end channels, as well.

"Every channel has different standards for the level of customization they allow on a listing detail page," Lesley Hensell, co-founder of Riverbend Consulting, explained to the E-Commerce Times.

"My recommendation is to develop a broad set of assets for your brand, and then use as many of these as possible in each channel. At the most basic, create boilerplate text describing your brand's values and benefits. This can be slipped into the product description, even on channels that only allow a bare minimum of branding," she counseled.

Paying attention to the specific information, details, and design of a brand's space on a particular channel can help the customer feel like that space is designed especially for that brand.

"In addition to your hero image, provide several secondary images," said Hensell. "These should include close-up photos of product packaging that captures your logo and look-and-feel. Lifestyle images can give people the 'feeling' of your brand as well.

"This way, if you cannot add a logo to the detail page or a storefront, your logo still shows up in the images. Finally, product videos and extended content are proven to increase conversion rates. Invest in developing these assets. As time passes, every platform will allow these features."

Cross-Platform Interaction

As e-commerce businesses evolve, so must the platforms on which they sell.

"There are two main things an e-commerce platform should accomplish," Sean Turner, CTO of Swiftly, told the E-Commerce Times.

"First, it should build loyalty and follow the entire customer journey from in-app to in-store. While e-commerce is growing, 90 percent of transactions still happen in-store. The platform needs to stay connected with customers at all times, to own the login, connect to the retailer's loyalty program, and connect to in-store pricing.

"Second," he continued, "the platform must have the ability to generate digital advertising dollars with a retail media network. This will generate new revenue for the retailers, ultimately improving operating margins."

Ultimately, customers aren't thinking about the platform on which they're interacting with a business, but rather their relationship with the business itself. Businesses must therefore look for platforms that provide a seamless journey for customers, as well as a robust and branded shopping experience.

"It's important for retailers to know their consumers and keep their needs and wants in mind when selecting a platform," explained Miva's Heyde. "Online sellers should prioritize selecting a platform that offers accessible and expert support that can quickly help address and resolve issues.

"A 'cookie-cutter' e-commerce approach will only create problems for technical teams as their businesses grow, causing a messy patchwork of plugins that slow down operations and negatively impact the business's bottom line."

Vivian Wagner has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2008. Her main areas of focus are technology, business, CRM, e-commerce, privacy, security, arts, culture and diversity. She has extensive experience reporting on business and technology for a variety of outlets, including The Atlantic, The Establishment and O, The Oprah Magazine. She holds a PhD in English with a specialty in modern American literature and culture. She received a first-place feature reporting award from the Ohio Society of Professional Journalists, and is the author of Women in Tech: 20 Trailblazers Share Their Journeys, published by ECT News Network in May 2020. Email Vivian.




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Are you looking for a way to reinvent the traditional vendor marketplace? Consider adding composable commerce to your bag of tricks. This marketing approach enables businesses to bring to their brands a distinct method to continuously optimize their customers' experiences

Composable commerce leverages multiple best-of-breed vendors composed together into a complete, business-ready solution. This development strategy mashes selected commerce components and combines them into a custom application built for specific business needs using Packaged Business Capabilities (PBCs).

Companies with a composable tech solution will be 80 percent faster than their competitors when implementing new features by 2023, according to Gartner research. This marketing strategy is much like a symphony.

Retail's Newest Tool

Consider that symphonic structure divides the musical score into parts or movements. Each one takes the listener on a journey. In the same way, the composable commerce strategy is a modern-day commerce solution built around the customer journey. It requires a host of parts or building blocks -- such as CMS, ERP, search, relevance, live video shopping, and checkout.

It is up to businesses to select and orchestrate these components to deliver the right functionality to support ongoing needs. This is where composable commerce comes into play. It enables organizations to construct an e-commerce solution with separate interchangeable building blocks to adapt to customer needs that are always evolving.

Increasingly, commerce organizations are leveraging this approach to improve agility and flexibility. Composable commerce is one of the retail industry's newest tools to help companies meet the sharp increase of digital commerce traffic during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"In a nutshell, composable commerce is the ability to implement your digital commerce solution in a best-of-breed manner. The other side of the spectrum is monolith solutions, which have everything included," Johan Liljeros, general manager North America and senior commerce advisor for digital commerce firm Avensia, told the E-Commerce Times.

Choosing Composable Platform Components

Think of the composable commerce system as a new type of marketing platform. You adapt its functionality to fit your business needs, rather than adapting your business flow to match what the monolith system offers.

For instance, you pick your CMS, the payments processing solution, and the kind of search engine. You select the type of personalization, the hosting provider, and your commerce orchestration for check out, digital asset management, and so forth.

All those selected components will integrate like a modular jigsaw puzzle into whatever distribution resource planning (DRP) or CRM platform you use, Liljeros noted.

The initial cost to set up a composable platform is usually a little bit higher. But the long-term gains are much higher as well, according to Liljeros.

"You might have to invest a little bit more initially to integrate all these components, but you also get a much longer life expectancy from the platform, which you can adapt much easier," he added.

That continuing adaptability can pay off in cases where a company's business model or its customer experience changes. As expectations change, you can modify a composable platform much faster, which will save you both time, money, and losses to competition.

"When it comes to competition, that would be the other business value in this, not only investment but the competition. I would say, you will drastically increase your chances to outperform the competition, implementing new solutions," Liljeros said.

Customer Requirement Planning

Liljeros cautioned that potential adopters need to view composable commerce platforms as a broad-based tool rather than a solution for certain industries. It is not about being a tool for a business-to-business or a business-to-consumer company. Rather, he said, it is more about how much flexibility will you need in the future and how quickly do you want to be to adapt to industry changes.

Instead, business leaders need to look at parameters like a company's customer-facing requirements. How will customer requirements and expectations change over time? Will business leaders implement new business models, or will their industry require more flexibility in the business models moving forward?

Also, consider how a company's value proposition will change over the next five years. What is the digital strategy, and, what will the IT landscape force require?

Thus, the industries a business targets are going to determine the range of modules its leaders will select to plug into the commerce platform, Liljeros agreed.

Right now, composable commerce platforms are in an adaption curve, he noted. Its growth curve as a business tool has been around for the last few years.

Still Unfamiliar Territory

As with all new technology, it can take some time for companies and governments to understand its true value. Meanwhile, founders of this technology continue to develop different platforms to develop their solutions.

"The concept of best of breed is not new. But it is now in a totally different way that the technology is so much further ahead to help it be more profitable and beneficial," Liljeros said.

Avensia, like numerous other digital development firms, is on the ground floor of this new technology. The company delivers e-commerce solutions to retailers and business companies around the world.

Ground floor involvement, yes, but not a new business start-up. Avensia has been involved in commerce platforms for 14 years, working with bringing platforms that put all these components together and adapt them for clients' needs.

Avensia works with do-it-yourself companies, retailers, and manufacturers to help them select different platform components and glue together integrations between e-commerce orchestration platforms, explained Liljeros.

Physical Stores Included

Part of this growing trend of plug-in or composable business modules for commerce platforms is a morphing of terminology. For instance, Liljeros rarely uses the term "e-commerce" because doing so reinforces a divide between brick-and-motor retail stores and traditional e-commerce businesses.

Instead, he refers to a more inclusive "digital commerce" term. The so-called e-commerce is becoming an integral part of in-store commerce, he offered.

In a broader sense, composable commerce solutions are technologies now found in physical stores as well. It could be the digital displays used for self-checkout, or the POS system, and so forth that reuse the same technology.

"We use different components in the stores as well," he said. "Product information displays or personalization effects in the physical store can be exactly the same information that you use with online system services."

The good thing about this, he added, is when you look at the results from a customer perspective. Different channels no longer exist. For customers, it becomes more of a coherent experience.

"If you are met by the same wording, the same pricing, the same campaigns, and the same offerings in every channel, you get a channel-agnostic experience which all retailers are looking forward to. This way of building a commerce system achieves making it easier to connect new channels to the system. That makes sense," observed Liljeros.

Jack M. Germain has been an ECT News Network reporter since 2003. His main areas of focus are enterprise IT, Linux and open-source technologies. He is an esteemed reviewer of Linux distros and other open-source software. In addition, Jack extensively covers business technology and privacy issues, as well as developments in e-commerce and consumer electronics. Email Jack.


In this Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019 file photo, a boy waves to passing motorists to commemorate the anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks from an overpass on Interstate 35 near Melvern, Kan. Area residents began manning the bridge with flags and waving to motorists on the anniversary in 2002 and have done it ever since.
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Athens, AL (35611)

Today

Cloudy this morning. A few showers developing during the afternoon. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable.
Amazon is acting on its promise to improve its treatment of employees, but not necessarily in the way you'd expect. The online shopping giant has pledged to pay full college tuition for its operations (effectively, warehouse) workers in the US beginning in January. The company didn't reveal the full criteria required, but some staff are eligible if they've been with Amazon for just three months.

The firm will also cover high school diplomas, GEDs and English as a Second Language certifications. And no, workers won't have to wait until they've finished a semester to get compensation. Amazon said it would pay tuition and other fees in advance, and would offer annual funds as long as people remain employees.

Staff will also have access to a trio of new "tuition-free" skill programs that will help train for positions in Amazon Web Services, IT support (such as Amazon Robotics) and user experience design. Not surprisingly, Amazon is using pay as an incentive  those on the IT track can make another $10,000 per year, the company claimed.

The incentives for Amazon are clear. This will help it not only recruit more workers for its office roles, but attract and retain workers who were either wary of working for Amazon or want assurances of upward career mobility once their schooling is done. Amazon might lose some of those tuition recipients to other companies, but that could be a small price to pay if it leads to more internal candidates and a more stable workforce.

This won't satisfy many of Amazon's critics. Politicians and labor rights activists have blasted Amazon over tough workplace quotas, constant employee monitoring and higher injury rates at automated facilities, among other issues. There are also allegations Amazon has interfered with unionization votes that could improve conditions and pay. Free education while you work is only useful so long as you're happy with the work itself, and this plan won't change much.

There's also the question of Amazon's outsized influence. The company said it was the "largest job creator" in the US, with 400,000 people having joined since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Paid tuition could give Amazon influence much like that of the military, where people sometimes sign up to defray education costs. As welcome as many might find the gesture, it could give Amazon more clout in society than regulators might like.
Skys too big in New Mexico.

Im a dozen miles outside of Santa Fe, heading West on the 502 towards Los Alamos in a borrowed 2022 Polestar 2 that wont quit begging my right foot to gain a few pounds. Damned if I cant stop staring at the horizon. In a futile effort to overtake me, stacks of clouds race across an azure backdrop spanning the Earths curvature.

Its just so big, my mind protests after 18 months of indoor pandemic living.

My right foot, ever loyal, finds the floor. Away we go, the overhead world a fading memory as the horizon rushes forward to meet us.

Paul Barshon/Beadyeye

With the Polestar 1s production run ending in December and both the 3 and Precept without firm release dates, the Polestar 2 Im driving is the current crown jewel of the companys burgeoning model lineup. The Polestar 2 Launch Edition arrived last year with every bell and whistle the company could manage to pack into its frame. For the 2022 model year, Polestar is taking a different tack by splitting the vehicles bevy of features into optional packages fitted onto a surprisingly well-appointed  and inexpensive  base mode.

The FWD version starts at $45,900 (as low as $34,900 after California incentives) and is outfitted with a single-speed AC synchronous permanent magnet motor using a 10.51:1 gear ratio. That motor delivers 231 HP, 243 ft-lb of torque, and a lengthy 265-mile range  35 miles more than last years model, putting the 2022 FWD Polestar 2 on par with the VW ID.4, Hyundai Kona EV, and the Chevy Bolt (assuming the latter isnt currently on fire). It offers a 100 MPH top speed with a 0-60 of 7 seconds.

The AWD version starts at $49,900 (down from last years $61,200 starting price) and utilizes a pair of permanent magnet motors (one on each axle) running 8.57:1 gear ratios. At that ratio, the performance-focused AWD Polestar 2 will have a higher top speed of 127 MPH, albeit at the cost of a nominally reduced 249-mile driving range. As such, the AWD puts out 408 HP between the two motors, 487 ft-lb of torque, and a 4.45-second 0-60.

Both variants will offer a $4,000 Plus Pack, which includes a full-length glass roof, "premium" interior including a 600W Harman Kardon stereo, powered seats, cabin illumination and the addition of a heat pump that uses waste energy from the drivetrain to heat the cabin interior and battery pack on cold days (while also improving range by up to 10 percent under certain climate conditions).

Paul Barshon/Beadyeye

The 2022 base models will come outfitted with a new, vegan embossed textile upholstery while the Weave-Tech covering found in last years Launch Edition is now included in the Plus Package. If youre hankering for real leather, that is available but comes at a premium price point. If you want the metallic Magnesium, Midnight, Snow, Moon, or Thunder paint options, theyll set you back an extra $1,200.

The $3,200 Pilot Pack incorporates Advanced Driver Assist features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot warnings and a 360-degree camera. Only the AWD version, however, will have access to the $5,000 Performance pack which adds 20-inch alloys, Brembo brakes, sport tires, and upgraded suspension components. Youll be able to spot Polestars with the performance pack by their bright yellow cosmetic accents on the brake calipers, seatbelts and valve caps. There is also a blacked-out option that eliminates all the chrome and colored exterior accents if you opt for the Void color scheme.

Regardless of the packages included, both Polestar variants run off the same 400V electrical architecture and 78 kWh (75kWh usable) capacity battery pack. The company has squeezed a few additional kW of charging capacity, 155 kW up from last years 150 using just software updates, for the 2022 models dropping the amount of time needed to refill from 10 percent charge to 80 percent to just 33 minutes. On a standard Level 2 AC charger (like what you'd have installed in your home), youre still looking at around 8 hours to fully repower the vehicle.

Paul Barshon/Beadyeye

Compared to last years model, the 2022 Polestars interior appears largely unchanged. An 11-inch central infotainment display running Android Automotive still dominates the vehicles minimalist dashboard. Rather than tethering or mirroring content from your mobile device, drivers will be able to log into the vehicles OS directly, granting them access to their Google accounts, contacts and the Google Play Store as well as natively running Google Maps, Spotify, YouTube Music and others.

Installing new apps is a cinch, a nearly identical process to doing so on your smartphone. Each new Polestar comes with 3 years of included access to Google Service Connectivity and LTE capability from AT&T. The company anticipates that a steady stream of OTA updates will help keep the Polestar 2s features and performance continually up to date. Polestar also plans to extend its latest OTA service to the 2021 model year so Launch Edition vehicles will enjoy the latest and greatest in software updates.

Paul Barshon/Beadyeye

At 5,312 feet above sea level, Albuquerque, New Mexico is among the highest of Americas metropolises, though it is outclassed by state capital Santa Fe, an hour to the northeast and 7,199 feet high, where I spent last Tuesday putting both Polestar iterations through their relative paces. At more than a mile above sea level, the air is so thin that conventional internal combustion engines (ICEs) can lose as much as 30 percent of their power output (roughly a hundred HP). Thank goodness battery electric vehicles (BEVs) like the Polestar have no need for triflings like oxygen. No matter how high it climbed, every last one of the FWD Polestars 231 horses remained available  still chomping at the bit, if you will.

Snapping awake from an unplanned anaphylactic nap, I find myself charging through the rolling hills of New Mexico State Road 4 while it winds its way through the Valles Caldera National Preserve. Of course, because its being pulled along by its leading axle, the FWD Polestar 2 does tend to swing wider through turns (as front drive vehicles are wont to do) compared to its AWD cousin, which led to a couple of hair-raising encounters with oncoming vehicles who were themselves shading the narrow two-lanes centerline.

If you are thinking of flying a drone to take video of the car near Los Alamos National Lab, Polestar PR warned us before we took off for the initial test drive. Dont. The government has been known to shoot them down.

So instead, heres a picture of the W80 that was awaiting us at the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History at the end of the drives initial leg. Coffee, snacks and selectable-yield thermonuclear warhead displays, oh my.

National Museum of Nuclear Science and History

The choice between the FWD and AWD versions of the 2022 Polestar 2 is not an easy one. For nearly all intents and purposes, the two are functionally identical both inside and out. The question youll have to answer for yourself is whether you want a fast, sporty and stylish ride with 265 miles of range or whether you want to trade in 16 of those miles for an extra 177 HP of head-snapping acceleration.

Its mid-afternoon and Im hill-climbing the absurdly tall, 10,000-foot high mountain that leads Ski Santa Fe. It started raining about 20 minutes ago, the temperature is dropping, and that gentle pitter-patter of formerly refreshing precipitation is now doing its best to become a Class 3 Kill Storm. When I raced along Skyline Blvd in 2019, the skies were clear and my right foot was a rotund demon with 408 Launch Edition horses at its beck and call.

Today, the skies were crying and the roads were revolting, but had just as much power at my disposal with the AWD Polestar 2s accelerator pedal underfoot. Its raining, its hailing, its snowing, minor landslides are depositing forearm-sized stones into the roadway. The Polestar barely seemed to notice the hazards  easily forging through spontaneous road rivers, slush piles, and newly laid rock beds  while charging up the tightly winding hillside. One flick of my right foot and away we go, ever onward, ever upward, and ever faster, just as soon as the Chevy Tahoe ahead of me decides to pull off into its campsite and stop crawling along at 15 goddamn miles an hour.
Google has announced a new water stewardship target that will see the company commit to replenishing on average 120 percent of the water it consumes at its data centers and offices by 2030. To that end, the search giant says it will use freshwater alternatives to cool its server farms. In places like Douglas County, Georgia, the company already uses reclaimed wastewater to keep its servers running. Moving forward, it will work to double down on that practice by finding more opportunities to use wastewater and seawater.

At its offices, meanwhile, the company plans to use more on-site water sources, such as collected stormwater, for things like landscape irrigation and toilet flushing that don't require potable water. Google points to its Bay Area campuses and a landscaping project where it worked with local ecologists as an example of an initiative where it's already thinking about its water use.

"Our water stewardship journey will involve continuously enhancing our water use and consumption," said Google sustainability officer Kate Brandt in a blog post.

In its efforts to replenish more water than it consumes, the company says it will also invest in community projects working to address local water and watershed challenges in places where the company has data centers and offices. As an example of the work Google plans to do here, the company points to a partnership it already has in place with the Colorado River Indian Tribes to reduce the amount of water removed from Lake Mead. The reservoir, the largest in the US, faces a pressing water shortage due to a combination of overuse and extended drought.

Lastly, the company plans to continue working with communities, policymakers and planners to help them with tools and technologies they need to measure and predict water availability and needs. Here, the company references work it did with the United Nations Environment Programme to create the Freshwater Ecosystems Explorer. It's a tool that tracks national and local surface water changes over time.

Today's commitment comes after Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai announced the company would attempt to run all of its data centers and offices entirely on carbon-free energy by 2030. Pichai described the effort as a "moonshot," noting it would be tricky in some instances to achieve due to the remote location of some of Google's facilities.
Amazon, the owner of Whole Foods, is finally bringing the sort of high-tech features we were expecting to the nationwide grocery chain. Its cashierless Just Walk Out tech will soon arrive in two Whole Foods locations, after starting off in Amazons own Go grocery stores.

Just Walk Out uses computer vision, sensors and AI to let you walk into a store, sign in with an app, fill up your bags and leave without joining a checkout line or scanning your items.

Ive tested out the systems at my local Amazon Fresh, and Ill begrudgingly admit, its magical. Its not my go-to grocery store, so I usually only pick up an item or two. Im mostly shopping there to see how everything works and what Amazons brick-and-mortar stores were selling.

Amazon

Multiple cameras in the ceiling monitor shoppers, who check in with their Amazon account as they pass through turnstiles. Shelves have sensors to detect when shoppers take items  and its all pretty amazing. Except when it gets things wrong. At one point, I went in to grab a newspaper (what? I like the supplements?) and some milk. Unfortunately, it added a couple more items to my purchase, and youre only informed of this when youre billed after leaving the store. To Amazons credit, it was quick to refund me once I flagged the issue through the app. Its early days for the tech, which is predictably being refined as each shopper passes through its stores. Theres also something convenient about packing away your shopping as you browse.

I only saw staff monitoring check-ins, as most people were confused by the conceit of the place, and filling shelves, but unions have said Amazon's cashierless tech will cost workers jobs at some point. The company says new Whole Foods locations will "employ a comparable number of team members as existing Whole Foods stores of similar sizes."

This could be just the start. Amazon signed a deal last year to license its technology to third-party retailers, so even if theres not a Whole Foods (or Amazon Fresh or Go) near you, you might not need a check-out.

 Mat Smith

Don't open Office files unless it's from a source you fully trust.

Microsoft is warning that some attackers are actively exploiting a remote code execution vulnerability using malicious Office files. It affects Windows Servers from version 2008 and Windows 7 through 10. What attackers are doing is sending potential victims an Office file and tricking them into opening it. That file automatically opens Internet Explorer to load the bad actor's web page, which has an ActiveX control that downloads malware to the victim's computer.

Microsoft says its Defender Antivirus and Defender for Endpoint can both detect the vulnerability and prevent infection, so users need to keep them updated and running.

Continue reading.

The Real Folding Window was designed to prevent fold impressions too.

LG Chem

LG Chem has designed a new type of cover window  that is, the outermost pre-installed part of displays protecting them from impact  which it says is as hard as glass and has the capability to prevent fold impressions on the connecting part of a device. Thats the curse of any foldable devices once its been folded and unfurled a few times.

The company calls the material Real Folding Window. Its made of PET film with a new coating technology on both sides, and it can be folded both outwards and inwards, unlike existing foldable screen materials.

Continue reading.

Next stop: the official release.

Google has released the fifth and final beta for Pixel phones (including the Pixel 5a) and several third-party devices, giving you one more look before the finished version arrives.

The Material You design scheme remains the most conspicuous change in Android 12, including an overall interface refresh, more fluid animations as well as color themes that adapt to your wallpaper. The completed software is due sometime in the "weeks ahead," Google said. If history is any indication, only Pixel owners will get Android 12 first.

Continue reading.

Its also smaller than its predecessors.

DJI

DJIs Osmo Mobile 5 has an extending arm, so you can use it as a selfie stick. The new gimbal is palm-sized when folded and is a third smaller than the last version. The OM 5 is available in two finishes, Sunset White and Athens Gray, starting today. It costs $159 and includes the magnetic clamp, tripod, wrist strap, power cable and storage pouch.

Continue reading.

The biggest news stories you might have missed

GOG's store adds six classic 'Star Trek' games

The Gmail app will soon make voice and video calls

Google Photos will deliver as many prints as you like to your home

Fake pro-China accounts tried to push Americans to attend anti-racism protests

Senator Warren urges Amazon to tackle COVID-19 misinformation

NASA will finally launch the James Webb Space Telescope on December 18th

Lenovo's IdeaPad Slim 7 Carbon is an ultralight laptop with an OLED display
The services celebrating and honoring the life of Phyllis Caywood, of Enid, are pending under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. Condolences and special memories may be shared with the family online at www.Brown-Cummings.com.
Addison Rae Signs Multi-Movie Deal With Netflix

Addison Rae has just signed a multi-movie deal with Netflix, thereby promising to move her from your phone screen to your movie screen for many more pictures to come, Variety reports. Rae is one of the top three TikTokers on the platform. The notoriety she accumulated through the app landed the influencer her inaugural acting role in the Netflix film He's All That.

He's All That is a modern day mix up of the movie, you guessed it, She's All That. The social media savant Rae plays an influencer named Padgett in the film- turning the heartwarming make-over romcom trope on its head. The film, also starring Tanner Buchanan, instantly became one of Netflix's top ranked movies. It's not surprising that after it's debut, Netflix decided it wanted Rae to stay.

Her meteoric rise through TikTok has opened the door for Addison Rae to explore the many facets of her talent. Back in March she released Obsessed, her first ever single. She continues to accumulate followers on her various social media accounts. We know we will be seeing her on Netflix even more very soon. While her internet presence brought her into the limelight, Addison admits that she's always wanted to be an actress.

Addison Rae is not the only one that has turned TikTok into television and film. Charli and Dixie D'Amelio, some of the first to go viral on the app, have a new show coming to Hulu called The D'Amelio Show. The show follows the lives of the two sisters and their families. Everyone says it is difficult to break into show business, and GenZ is forging their own path!

We are excited to see what else Addison's bright future has in store!
2021-09-09

Maeci

On the occasion of the International Day for the Protection of Education from Armed Attack, established in May 2020 by the United Nations General Assembly with a resolution also voted by our country, Italy strongly reiterates that education is a fundamental right of children that must always be guaranteed and protected, even in situations of armed conflict and humanitarian emergency. Schools must be refuges from abuse, violence and recruitment by armed groups and tools to build peaceful and inclusive societies.

Our country cooperates with United Nations Agencies, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and civil society organisations to guarantee the right to education in conflict areas. Italy works in all relevant fora to bring protecting education from armed attacks to the international community's attention.

At the last Red Cross and Red Crescent Quadrennial Conference (Geneva, 9-12 December 2019), the Italian initiative to enable children to live in safety and enjoy their rights, including the right to education in situations of armed conflict, received the largest number of endorsements from other Governments and civil society organisations.

In addition, our country promotes numerous awareness-raising events in the main Onusian fora dedicated to human rights. Italy contributes to promoting the complete adherence to the "Declaration on Safe Schools", approved in 2015 to protect students, school staff and educational infrastructure in times of war, also given the 4th "International Conference on Safe Schools" to be held this year (25-28 October 2021) in Abuja.
La Rioja

Denunciado un conductor en La Rioja por dar positivo en todas las drogas del narcotest
DUBLIN, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Highlights:

Financial 2020:

Underlying revenue in 2020 up 9%

Operating profit up 30%

Net Assets up 31%

Employee ownership up 15%

Momentum maintained into 2021

Job Creation:

400 new jobs announced, 200 in Ireland and 200 across Mainland Europe, UK, USA and Asia

New positions across a wide range of disciplines

Recruiting immediately

PM Group, the Irish headquartered international project delivery company, achieved operating profits of 34.8 million in 2020, an increase of 30% on 2019. This performance was achieved on the back of strong underlying fee income which was 9% up on prior year.

PM Group's overall revenue, which includes pass through revenue, increased to 398 million in 2020, up 16%. Pass through revenue is where the Group carries procurement and contract costs of behalf of clients. Net assets increased to 111 million up from 85 million in 2019, which combined with minimal debt, underpins the Group's ability to continue to invest in development and growth.

PM Group has a workforce of 3,200 people in Europe, North America and Asia, providing complex design, construction and delivery solutions to clients in pharma, food, mission critical, medtech and advanced manufacturing technology sectors.

The Group is employee owned with over 1,000 people holding shares in the Group, up 15% on prior year.

PM Group is creating 400 new jobs this year across a range of disciplines including architecture, engineering, construction, data analytics, project controls and Environmental. Of these, 200 positions will be based in Ireland. Recruitment for the new positions is already underway.

Last month, the Group appointed a new Chair, Brendan Jennings, who succeeds long standing Chair and Director, Dan Flinter. Prior to joining the Board, Brendan was CEO of Deloitte Ireland. In April, the Group appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, Rosita Fennell in succession to Larry Westman. Rosita held various financial positions within the Group and was most recently Company Secretary. She has also joined the Board.

Dave Murphy, Chief Executive of PM Group said: "Despite the enormous challenges posed by the global pandemic, our clients have continued to invest in developing their facilities and capacity right around the world. Many of the sectors and projects with which we are currently engaged, are actively dealing with the consequences of the pandemic.

"Therapeutics and vaccine manufacturing, food and beverage processing, medical devices and diagnostics as well as data centres are attracting significant investment to meet evolving market needs. Indeed, Pharma is a powerhouse sector for us with two-thirds of overall revenues generated in 2020 associated with the sector.

"The surge in investment has carried through to 2021, with international projects now accounting for more than 50% of Group activity for the first time in our history. We have set ourselves specific targets in our new five-year strategy in areas where we see strong growth potential in the years ahead. The development of a large-scale Electric Vehicle battery materials plant in Poland for Johnson Matthey, is a case in point.

"The growth of the business has created new opportunities for increasing employment, and we are pleased to be announcing 400 new jobs across a range of disciplines in Ireland and overseas. The attraction of working with experienced colleagues on exciting international projects for world leading organisations, combined with the potential to become an owner of PM Group in time, is a strong magnet for talent."

Dan Flinter, outgoing Chair of PM Group said: "The entire team across the Group deserves great credit for the performance delivered in 2020 and into this current year. This historic performance achieved new milestones in underlying fee income and profitability, further strengthening the balance sheet. The Group has also made important strides in living the commitment to corporate responsibility and on each of the six pillars of the Group's CR strategy.

"The Group's prioritisation of health and safety was recognised by the achievement of ISO45001 certification across a range of locations, exceptional safety awards in Ireland and the UK and continued reduction in incident rates. Over 13 million safe hours were delivered in 2020 across all services and locations, the majority of which were under Covid-19 restrictions."

Review of Operations 2020:

The Group continued to expand its target market into Europe and the US with major projects undertaken for MSD, Bayer, J&J, Johnson Matthey and Facebook.

The UK operation was up on prior year, accounting for 9% of 2020 Group revenues. While pharma was strong there were some delays experienced in other sectors given Covid-19 and Brexit uncertainties.

In Mainland Europe, which accounted for 29% of revenues, the Group experienced growth in each of Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland and Switzerland. In the Netherlands, a large animal health project was completed. The Group's growing Belgium unit is delivering a portfolio of pharma and datacentre projects. In Denmark, the Group is involved with a multi-year data centre programme for a global leader in that space. Poland experienced a record year on the back of major projects for Beiersdorf and Johnson Matthey. Switzerland reported strong year-on-year growth on the back of projects for Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer, J&J and Roche. PM Group has also recently opened a new operation in Frankfurt to support its work in the German market.

In the US, PM Group's teams in Boston and San Francisco delivered further growth for key clients. Project highlights included Thermo Fisher's cell and gene therapy facility and EMD Serono's life science and research facility, both in Massachusetts and Genentech's new iNeST facility in Portland, Oregon. To support the growth in the US, PM Group has recently set up a third operation in Philadelphia.

PM Group activity in Asia accounted for 9% of Group revenue in 2020. Strong performance in China related to the delivery of projects for MSD, AstraZeneca, Geneception, Pernod Ricard and Nike. The Singapore office delivered significant projects for PepsiCo, Roche, Novartis and Boston Scientific. The Group's Bangalore operation, which now has more than 100 people, supports projects across all international business units as well as providing shared services.

About PM Group

Headquartered in Ireland, PM Group is an employee owned, international project delivery company with operations across Europe, the USA and Asia. With over 3,200 personnel, the Group has a 48-year track record in project management, process design, facility design and construction management for the world's leading multinational companies. PM Group is a global leader in the Pharma, Food, Mission Critical, Med-Tech and Advanced Manufacturing Technology sectors.

For reference:Paul Clifford Drury Communications paul.clifford@drury.ie +353 87 327 2161
Leading spa and sauna company, Harvia Plc, has announced the acquisition of Sauna-Eurox Oy, a global supplier of safe and durable sauna stones.

Harvia complements their sauna and spa solutions offering

This investment implements Harvia's growth strategy and complements their sauna and spa solutions offering. With this acquisition, the Finnish sauna heater manufacturer will benefit from the stone-related expertise required for business expansion and quality assurance in a product category that is essential for sauna heaters to create relaxing sauna moments around the world, in line with their Healing with Heat philosophy.

Ensure an enjoyable sauna experience

Sauna-Eurox is the worlds leading manufacturer of sauna stones with over 30 years of experience of different stone varieties, their thermal durability, and their use as sauna stones. The Finnish company manufactures sauna stones from local natural sources such as olivine diabase and vulcanite, and also produces different decorative top layer sauna stones. All Sauna-Eurox stones are hand selected and factory pre-washed premium products.

This partnership will allow Harvia and Sauna-Eurox to increase the availability of sauna stones and bolster their production capacity. Concurrently, Harvia also acquired Sauna-Eurox Oy's sister company Parhaat Loylyt Oy. Consolidated revenue of the acquired companies, which will continue their operations at their current premises in Luvia, Finland, with the current personnel, totalled approximately EUR 3.2 million in 2020.

Founded in 1950, Harvia is one of the world's leading sauna and spa company. Their products and solutions are available in over 80 countries through an established network of local partners and dealers. With this investment Harvia reinforces its leading market position in the global sauna and spa market.
From: Dr. Judith Briles --The Book Shepherd Denver , CO Thursday, September 9, 2021



Governor Polis Declares September 18th Colorado Authors Hall of Fame Day Denver, CO, September 9, 2021  Governor Polis signed a proclamation declaring September 18 Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame Day, in support of the upcoming celebration gala where 16 new incredible authors will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. The gala will be held on September 18 at the Renaissance Central Park hotel in Denver. Mayor John Hancock also signed a proclamation for the city of Denver, declaring September 18, Authors' Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Day in celebration of some of Colorado's most prolific authors. This year's 16 inductees include 4 Legacies: Robert Heinlein, often called the "dean of science fiction writers", he was among the first to emphasize scientific accuracy in his fiction and became a pioneer of the subgenre of hard science fiction, Pulitzer Prize winning author James Michener, John Edward Williams, author of Butcher's Crossing and Augustus, and Hannah Marie Wormington, considered to be one of the nation's top anthropologists. The other inductees into the Hall of Fame are: Kevin J. Anderson : Author of over 170 published books, 58 of which have been national or international bestsellers. He has written numerous novels in the Dune, Star Wars, X-Files, and Batman/Superman universes, as well as unique steampunk fantasy novels Clockwork Angels and Clockwork Lives, written with legendary rock drummer Neil Peart.

: Author of over 170 published books, 58 of which have been national or international bestsellers. He has written numerous novels in the Dune, Star Wars, X-Files, and Batman/Superman universes, as well as unique steampunk fantasy novels Clockwork Angels and Clockwork Lives, written with legendary rock drummer Neil Peart. Penny Rafferty Hamilton: A world-record setting aviator, she currently focuses on aviation and aerospace. Recently, she authored America's Amazing Airports, Inspiring Words for Sky and Space Women, and 101 Trailblazing Women of Air and Space. Hamilton earned numerous journalism, education, business, and aviation awards.

A world-record setting aviator, she currently focuses on aviation and aerospace. Recently, she authored America's Amazing Airports, Inspiring Words for Sky and Space Women, and 101 Trailblazing Women of Air and Space. Hamilton earned numerous journalism, education, business, and aviation awards. Justin Matott: A children's author, notably known for Ol' Lady Grizelda and I think My Dog Might Be a Nerd. Picked up by Random House after selling 5,000 copies of his self-published children's book in three weeks, he left the Corporate world to see if he could live the dream of being an author/speaker as his vocation. Millions of his children's books have been sold across the world.

children's author, notably known for Ol' Lady Grizelda and I think My Dog Might Be a Nerd. Picked up by Random House after selling 5,000 copies of his self-published children's book in three weeks, he left the Corporate world to see if he could live the dream of being an author/speaker as his vocation. Millions of his children's books have been sold across the world. Sandra Dallas: Denver based New York Times best-selling author Sandra Dallas is the author of 16 adult novels, four young reader novels, and 10 nonfiction books. She was dubbed "a quintessential American voice" by Jane Smiley in Vogue Magazine.

Denver based New York Times best-selling author Sandra Dallas is the author of 16 adult novels, four young reader novels, and 10 nonfiction books. She was dubbed "a quintessential American voice" by Jane Smiley in Vogue Magazine. Carol Fenster: When major New York publishers rejected Colorado authors Carol Fenster's pioneering work featuring gluten-free cooking strategies and how to eat healthy and happy, it didn't stop her. She is the pioneer of gluten free cooking.

When major New York publishers rejected Colorado authors Carol Fenster's pioneering work featuring gluten-free cooking strategies and how to eat healthy and happy, it didn't stop her. She is the pioneer of gluten free cooking. W. Michael Gear: Professional archaeologist and New York Times bestselling author with 60 novels, 2 short stories, and 82 non-fiction articles in print that have been translated into 29 languages is what brings William Michael Gear to the Hall.

Professional archaeologist and New York Times bestselling author with 60 novels, 2 short stories, and 82 non-fiction articles in print that have been translated into 29 languages is what brings William Michael Gear to the Hall. Charlotte Hinger: Charlotte Hinger is a multi-published, award-winning author of fiction and nonfictionlong and short, historical, and contemporaryprimarily, but not exclusively, focused on the Western experience with an emphasis on the African-American/Black experience in the historical West, primarily in the Great Plains region.

Charlotte Hinger is a multi-published, award-winning author of fiction and nonfictionlong and short, historical, and contemporaryprimarily, but not exclusively, focused on the Western experience with an emphasis on the African-American/Black experience in the historical West, primarily in the Great Plains region. Manuel Ramos: Among the first Latinos to publish in the mystery genre and was given the title "the Godfather of Chicano Noir" by the esteemed writer Luis Alberto Urrea. His books are set in the community in which he lives  Denver's Northside, aka Highlands  and in rural Colorado.

Among the first Latinos to publish in the mystery genre and was given the title "the Godfather of Chicano Noir" by the esteemed writer Luis Alberto Urrea. His books are set in the community in which he lives  Denver's Northside, aka Highlands  and in rural Colorado. Patricia Raybon: Is an award-winning author, essayist, and novelist who writes top-rated books at the daring intersection of faith and race. Her most notable books are My First White Friend: Confessions on Race, Love and Forgiveness and All That Is Secret: An Annalee Spain Mystery.

Is an award-winning author, essayist, and novelist who writes top-rated books at the daring intersection of faith and race. Her most notable books are My First White Friend: Confessions on Race, Love and Forgiveness and All That Is Secret: An Annalee Spain Mystery. Richard Weissman: one of the most productive and important authors writing about American roots music and the music business. Music Business: Career Opportunities & Self Defense has sold over 100,000 copies and used in many college music programs. His work was among the earliest books written about the music business.

one of the most productive and important authors writing about American roots music and the music business. Music Business: Career Opportunities & Self Defense has sold over 100,000 copies and used in many college music programs. His work was among the earliest books written about the music business. Flint Whitlock: He's been the Editor of the WWII Quarterly magazine since 2010. The Smithsonian, National Geographic, Colorado National Guard, and other groups is honored to have him as a battlefield tour guide. His notable books include Soldiers on Skis: A Pictorial Memoir of the 10th Mountain Division and The Beasts of Buchenwald: Karl & Ilse Koch, Human-Skin Lampshades, and the War-Crimes Trial of the Century.

He's been the Editor of the WWII Quarterly magazine since 2010. The Smithsonian, National Geographic, Colorado National Guard, and other groups is honored to have him as a battlefield tour guide. His notable books include Soldiers on Skis: A Pictorial Memoir of the 10th Mountain Division and The Beasts of Buchenwald: Karl & Ilse Koch, Human-Skin Lampshades, and the War-Crimes Trial of the Century. "Avi" Edward Wortis: Avi is the author of more than seventy books for children and young adults, including the 2003 Newbery medal winner Crispin: The Cross of Lead. He has won two Newbery Honors and many other awards for his fiction. The Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame is the first in the nation to recognize and celebrate the breadth of work that authors brought forth. Other Hall of Fame inductions are planned for authors in Texas and Arizona. Tickets are available to the public at www.ColoradoAuthorsHallofFame.org The ticket includes dinner. The deadline to purchase tickets for the induction gala is September 14. About Colorado Authors' Hall of Fame Authors' Hall of Fame strives to educate the people of Colorado and the country about the stories of the authors who shaped their works using their personal presence and the environment of our State with courage, leadership, intelligence, compassion, and creativity. Inductees are authors who've made a major impact on others with their words. The Authors' Hall of Fame recognition endeavors to ensure their legacies never die. The next Induction of the Hall of Fame will be held September 18, 2021 at the Renaissance Central Park in Denver, Colorado. Additional information about the upcoming Induction event, inductees, donations, events, and board members is available at www.ColoradoAuthorsHallofFame.org Press inquiries: Judith Briles, Judith@Briles.com or 303-885-2207. ###


San Antonios COVID-19 risk level  its color-coded description of the danger of contracting the coronavirus  was downgraded this week from severe to moderate.

The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has designated five COVID-19 risk levels  low, mild, moderate, severe and critical  which are depicted on the citys coronavirus website on a scale ranging from dark green on the left to deep red on the right. Currently, it says we are improving.

While the reduced risk assessment is encouraging in general, its meaning in terms of peoples behavior is not well-defined. Metro Health does not have a standard set of behaviors corresponding to different risk levels.

Rita Espinoza, Metro Healths chief of epidemiology, said people should adjust their activities based on the level of transmission. At higher risk levels, for example, host a gathering with people from several households outdoors rather than indoors.

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Espinoza said that even though the risk level has been reduced to moderate, residents should remain cautious until the risk is much lower.

I would say that the public health recommendations remain the same. If youre out in public, continue masking and continue to social distance, she said. We have seen what happens when those things do not occur. Thats when our cases go up.

Meanwhile, how Metro Health determines the COVID risk level is defined.

The risk level meter is based on three indicators  positivity rate, hospital stress score and the number of COVID-19 cases per 100,000 people.

The positivity rate is the percentage of COVID-19 tests that come back from a lab positive for the virus. The current positivity rate is 7.6 percent, which is down significantly from a peak of 21.4 percent on Aug. 8 but still well above the rate on June 6 of 1.2 percent.

On ExpressNews.com: COVID-19 risk level downgraded, but area 'not out of the woods'

The hospital stress score is determined by the Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council, which oversees the 22-county regional trauma and emergency health care system.

STRAC tallies the number of patients hospitalized, in intensive care units and using ventilators. It bases its score on measures such as the percentage of staffed hospital beds available  currently 9.8 percent  and the inventory of personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves and gowns at hospitals in the area.

City of San Antonio

Metro Health tracks the case rate per 100,000 people based on the seven-day moving average of cases in Bexar County and the countys population.

As of Wednesday, the seven-day rolling average was 1,087 cases. On Aug. 16, the seven-day average reached a summer high of 1,646 cases.

Every week, Espinozas team of 72, which includes 30 epidemiologists, plugs the risk factors from the prior week into an algorithm created by the city and county COVID-19 task force.

The risk level results are then shared with Metro Health Director Claude Jacob, San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, and the website is usually updated on Tuesdays.

City and county leaders often reference the community risk level during televised coronavirus briefings, which are currently being held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Metro Health introduced the low-to-critical risk meter in June 2020 to assess the severity of the case numbers and measure overall progress. Initially, testing capacity and contact tracing were included in the assessment. That was also several months before the first COVID-19 vaccine was approved for emergency use and a year before the more contagious delta variant spread across the nation.

Last month, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted full approval to Pfizer-BioNTech for its two-dose vaccine. The other two COVID-19 vaccines in use are authorized for emergency use during the pandemic.

For now, only people 12 and older are eligible for a vaccine that protects against severe illness and death from the coronavirus. In Bexar County, 69.5 percent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated.

On ExpressNews.com: August among deadliest months of COVID pandemic

Were heading in the right direction, but we want to continue heading in that direction, Espinoza said, adding that the only way to get there is to ensure everyone who is eligible gets vaccinated. We dont want people to let their guard down because the last time we did that, some weeks later, we start seeing an increase in cases.

Staff data reporter Ryan Serpico contributed to this article.

laura.garcia@express-news.net
You may not be able to judge a book by its cover, but you certainly can judge one by its author. Colson Whitehead, Liane Moriarty and Jennifer Lynn Barnes all have strong track records, and all have new novels out this month. Heres a look.

The Hawthorne Legacy, Jennifer Lynn Barnes ($17.99, Little, Brown Books): Barnes is a professor of psychology who studies fandom, which may give her an edge in the young adult markets. Her novel 2020 novel The Inheritance Games, about a high school student who unaccountably inherits the fortune of a mysterious billionaire, certainly won her lots of fans.

In this sequel, Avery Grambs is still trying to figure out why a total stranger gave her gobs of money while fending off the grandchildren who feel the old mans fortune should have been theirs. On sale now.

L.A. Weather, Maria Ampara Escandon ($27.99, Flatiron Books): Oscar Alvarado spends all of his waking hours, and some sleeping ones, watching the Weather Channel in his home in parched West Los Angeles, paying no attention to the world around him, not even when his 3-year-old twin granddaughters fall into the untended backyard pool. So it shouldnt have come as a surprise when his wife decided to leave him.

But it did to their three very successful daughters, who somehow hope to keep them together in this cinematic, soapy novel. On sale now.

On ExpressNews.com: S.A. author David Liss delves into the occult in his new novel

Apples Never Fall, Liane Moriarty (Henry Holt and Co., $28.99): Moriarty is a hot property in Hollywood. Her books Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers have been turned into series on HBO and Hulu, and her latest will follow suit.

The rights to Apples Never Fall already have been sold. It begins in a coffee shop where a waitress overhears the most interesting conversation: Four siblings discuss their mom, who is missing, and their dad, who couldnt have had anything do to with that. On sale Tuesday.

Crazy Sorrow, Vince Passaro (Simon & Schuster, $27): Violence, Nudity, Adult Content, Passaros debut novel, earned raves from the likes of the New York Times Janet Maslin.

More than a decade later, hes finished the follow-up, also a domestic drama, also set in New York. It follows a young couple, George and Anna, who meet during the Bicentennial and then part, never forgetting their college fling as they and the city they live in grow and change over the next four decades. On sale Tuesday.

Harlem Shuffle, Colson Whitehead (Doubleday, $28.95): It doesnt really matter what Whitehead is writing about  summer in the Hamptons, zombies, journalists on a junket  hes always worth reading. His last two novels, The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys, won the Pulitzer Prize.

Harlem Shuffle is a crime novel set in 1960s New York about a furniture salesman with a sideline in fencing stolen goods. On sale Tuesday.

Nonfiction

Humane: How the United States Abandoned Peace and Reinvented War, Samuel Moyn (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, $30): This book isnt specifically about Afghanistan, though it spends a lot of time there and is worth pondering in the aftermath of the United States 20-year war there. Moyn, a professor of law and history at Yale, describes the evolution of war to make it more humane, starting with the formation of the Red Cross, and and explores why that, rather than peace, has become the preoccupation of the United States.

Swords have not been beaten into plowshares, he writes. They have been melted down into drones. On sale now.

On ExpressNews.com: S.A. author goes home to small-town South Texas in new novel

AI 2041: Ten Visions for Our Future, Kai-Fu Lee and Chen Qiufan (Currency, $30): In a blend of futurism and fiction, a computer scientist (former Google China president Lee) and a science fiction author (Qiufan) envision our future with artificial intelligence in a series of 10 stories and essays.

The scenarios in Quifans stories  Korean children who learn from their cartoonlike AI friends, games that erase the boundary between virtual and real  are based on technology likely to exist 20 years from now. Lees essays explore the technological underpinnings of those stories. On sale Tuesday.

Black Nerd Problems: Essays, William Evans & Omar Holmon (Gallery Books, $27): Nerds are basically super fans as defined by Evans and Holmon, former slam poets who bonded over pop culture and founded the Black Nerd Problems website to deliver ESPN-level analysis of same.

In their first book, super fans Evans and Holmon cover a wide variety of topics, from Game of Thrones and Green Lantern comics to Mario Kart and manga. On sale Tuesday.

Rationality: What It Is, Why It Seems Scarce, Why It Matters, Steven Pinker (Viking, $32): Harvard psychologist and science writer Pinker, like many of us, has detected an unusual force at work in the world today, which seems to be moving us forward and backward at the same time: Amazing scientific achievements, like the COVID-19 vaccines, are met and matched by irrational beliefs in conspiracies and miracle cures.

Pinker thinks the problem is with our thinking: were not doing it well enough. In Rationality, he champions a crash course in logic and critical thinking as a way out of our dilemma. On sale Sept. 28.

Unrequited Infatuations: A Memoir, Stevie Van Zandt: Springsteen may be the Boss, but with stints both in the E-Street Band and on the HBO series The Sopranos, Stevie Van Zandt could be the king of New Jersey.

Whats immediately clear in his memoir, which starts with an operatic overture and continues with our hero being smuggled into a meeting with South African revolutionaries, is that Van Zandt is a world-class character in his own right. You wont want to leave his side as he reels through the years. On sale Sept. 28.

jkiest@express-news.net | Twitter: @en_salife
When Don Mathis, 70, walks into Wonderland of the Americas, its like stepping through the looking glass. A whoosh of the doors, and hes a kid again in 1962, wandering the shiny new shopping center with his parents and Grandma Alice as they joke that shes a literal Alice in Wonderland.

As a middle schooler in 1964, Mathis raced slot cars with his older brother on a giant track in the malls lower level. As a teenager, he was a dishwasher at the malls Piccadilly Cafeteria, a job he ditched in 1969 to catch Led Zeppelin at the Texas International Pop Festival in Dallas.

Its just been a part of my life forever and ever, said Mathis, who visits Wonderland these days for his biannual checkup at one of its three Veterans Affairs clinics or for the occasional food court calzone. I think its just as good as it ever was.

On Sept. 14, 1961  60 years ago today  Wonderland Shopping City opened to fireworks and fanfare on what were then the outskirts of San Antonio. It was once the largest indoor mall in the city. Today, the Balcones Heights fixture is more of a bargain-based community center, a quiet cross section of value shopping, offbeat events and eclectic medical services that include birth doulas, pediatric dentistry and COVID-19 vaccinations.

Yet no matter how much the mall has changed, the mere mention of Wonderland takes Mathis and many other San Antonians back in time.

Wonderland, just listening and talking to a lot of people  its home away from home, said Wonderland marketing director Victoria Hernandez. Its evolved so much, but its still home.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio Zoo's plastic giraffes, gorillas from Mold-A-Rama machines still going after 60 years

The 1960s: The middle of nowhere

San Antonians of a certain age still remember when Wonderland first lit up a relatively barren Northwest Side around Fredericksburg Road and Loop 410.

Martin Delfin

Retiree Cheryl Osborn was 8 when her family made the trek from their South Side home to the malls opening day. She remembers standing in the parking lot with fireworks and big search lights.

At 650,000 square feet, Wonderland opened as the largest shopping center in San Antonio. It even boasted the worlds longest ribbon for an opening ceremony: more than 3,000 feet, tied around the entire two-story mall.

San Antonios first Montgomery Ward department store anchored one end. At the other, a Handy Andy supermarket provided covered and curbside grocery loading. (Handy Andy had opened in 1959 and was incorporated into the new mall.)

Part of the malls commitment to its Wonderland theme was Alice of Wonderland, a guide in a pinafore dress who directed visitors from a central kiosk to more than three dozen stores, including retailers such as Sommers Drugs, Winns, Satels suit store and F.W. Woolworth 5 & 10.

UTSA Special Collections

John Castillo remembers those stores well. As a child, he used to help his father with his maintenance duties, sometimes sitting on his dads floor waxer like a cat on a Roomba to help buff out those stubborn spots. Now Wonderlands chief of engineering, Castillo has been a full-time part of the malls maintenance since 1982.

Castillo recalled going to a mobile petting zoo inside the mall when he was a kid. Other quirky animal promotions during the malls first decade included poodle fashion shows and performances by Skipper the dolphin in a giant tank on Wonderlands fifth anniversary.

Wonderland excelled in both diversions and department store offerings. In 1963, the mall welcomed the Teen Canteen, a hangout for teenagers that took over a lower-level dance studio on weekends. In 1964, Wonderland added a posh Rhodes department store in the space now occupied by Burlington.

On ExpressNews.com: Nogalitos H-E-B opened in 1945 as 'store of tomorrow.' 76 years later, the South Side grocery store still ahead of its time

1970s to early 80s: Welcome, Frost Bros.

Big changes were afoot at Wonderland in the 1970s, and not just with bell bottoms and butterfly collars on the runways of the malls fashion shows. Rhodes left in the late 70s, making way for Frost Bros.

Wonderland of the Americas

The mall changed hands in 1977, when original owner Charles Becker sold to affiliates of the Lehndorff Group of West Germany. Wonderland underwent a $6.6 million overhaul of its interior and exterior.

About that time, Wonderland brought back the teen club experience for a new generation. Jenifer Harris used to dance her junior and high school nights away at Image, a dance club on Wonderlands lower level. Harris said her mother used to go dancing at Wonderlands Teen Canteen back in the day.

When I walk into the mall now ... theres just that feeling of nostalgia, said Harris, now a sales coordinator for a manufacturer. Because even though the stores have changed, the pathways are still the same.

Mid-1980s to early 2000s: Crossroads

In 1986, the Lehndorff Group launched a $28 million renovation that would transform Wonderland into Crossroads of San Antonio. The highlights: a giant outdoor fountain and amphitheater that beckoned shoppers into the Palm Pavilion, a glassy addition with towering palm trees and bright skylights, and a new food court, six-screen movie theater and Stein Mart anchor store.

Wonderland of the Americas

The reborn mall officially was unveiled in 1987, and the comedian Gallagher smashed watermelons with his trademark Sledge-O-Matic from a balcony before a packed amphitheater crowd.

But the revamp and rebranding didnt revitalize the malls fortunes. Frost Bros. filed for bankruptcy in 1988 and closed its Crossroads store the next year. By 1990, nearly half the mall was vacant.

Wonderland of the Americas

In the 1990s, Burlington took over the former Frost Bros. spot and Hobby Lobby moved into what was once Handy Andy. Though the malls amphitheater fountains dont splash like they used to, they have hosted the Balcones Heights Jazz Festival since 1993.

In 1996, the bank that held the loan on the big Crossroads overhaul threatened foreclosure  twice  before taking over the mall. MRO Properties bought Crossroads the next year.

The turn of the century marked the end of another Wonderland era: Montgomery Ward closed in 2001.

Staff file photo

Most of the former Montgomery Ward space was torn down to make room for a Super Target in 2003. The remaining lower-level retail space was replaced by the Norris Conference Center in 2004. The upper portion now houses a Burkes Outlet and Wonderland Jump & Play.

On ExpressNews.com: Remember those VIA Muppet ads from the 80s? They are back!

The 2000s to now

The early 2000s brought an infusion of art house style to the floundering mall. The Regal Cinemas Crossroads Theater, which specialized in indie and foreign films, closed in 2002. It opened less than a year later as Santikos Bijou at Crossroads, a cafe cinema specializing in art house films.

William Luther /Staff photographer

The Wonderland name returned in 2010, when new owner Crossroads Mall Partners rebranded it Wonderland of the Americas  the name by which most longtime San Antonians referred to the mall.

So many people were excited when Crossroads went back to Wonderland, said general manager Denise Bush, who has been with the mall for nearly 30 years. Even today if I tell somebody I worked at Crossroads, theyre like, Where? And Ill say, Wonderland. And theyre like, Oh! I remember that when I was a kid!

The mall has original features to jog memories. Rhodes glass elevator still runs through the heart of the Burlington retail space, which still leads out to the same covered parking beneath the building that was there in the early 60s.

That was the first time I ever rode in a glass elevator, Mathis said. This was like The Jetsons to my teenage mind. It was futuristic. Im so glad theyre still running that elevator.

William Luther / Staff photographer

The slot car track Mathis and others remember from the malls first decade now thrills new generations of drivers at Magnatech Slot Car Raceway, which brought the 180-foot course back to Wonderland in 2004.

Magnatech owner Jim Honeycutt inherited the track in the early 70s, a couple of years after the original Wonderland attraction closed. He likens the eight-lane wonder to the mall itself, a unique piece of history that both defies and exemplifies its age.

Wonderland has actually got some character, even though its not the glorious lady that it used to be in the 60s, Honeycutt said. Its been around so long. ... And the simple fact is, its a survivor.

The return of the Wonderland name didnt mean a return to the shopping city of old. The mall now is a mixed-use development, with an emphasis on budget- and community-friendly products, services and activities.

Hence, more mom-and-pop stores upstairs such as Adrianas Casa de Novias, which specializes in baptism gowns and quinceanera dresses, and geeky vendors such as Action Figure Exchange, Creepy Classics and CD Sam music, which occupy the malls Little Shops at Wonderland.

Wonderland also is one of the largest voting sites in Bexar County. When the mall isnt hosting voters, its hosting quirky conventions and other free events for the public, such as its recent Wonderland UFO Festival and the return of its long-running Monster-Con horror convention later this month.

On ExpressNews.com: At San Antonio's old Alligator Garden on Broadway, kids could ride gators in 1950s

The pivot has paid off. While the so-called retail apocalypse has wiped out malls and anchor stores across the country over the past decade, Wonderland has stayed open and even outlasted San Antonio malls that came after it, such as Central Park Mall, which closed in 2001, and Windsor Park Mall, which closed in 2005.

Various medical services at Wonderland cater to all ages and incomes. This year, University Health turned its mall training space into a COVID-19 vaccination site. Marketing director Hernandez said the mall averaged 5,000 to 7,000 inoculations a day at the height of vaccinations. The site closed in July, but University Health is preparing to provide vaccine booster shots there.

The city of Balcones Heights is negotiating a possible $5 million investment in Wonderland that would give the city 15,000 square feet in the mall and an approximately 45 percent ownership stake in the entire property.

Jessica Phelps /Staff file photo

Wonderland still sees its highs and lows. In 2016, Career Point College abruptly closed when the Education Department cut its access to federal funds, prompting it to file for bankruptcy. Last year, Wonderland lost Stein Mart when the discount department store chain closed its doors nationwide.

Its a little sad, Hernandez said. But you kind of see it like, Well, this place is still going.

Longtime patrons such as Mathis dont mind change  as long as their beloved mall maintains its communal spirit and character.

I enjoy the ambiance of Wonderland, Mathis said. I hope its going to be around for many more years.

Express-News researcher Misty Harris contributed to this report.

rguzman@express-news.net | Twitter: @reneguz
State officials have recommended that a joint venture between a design firm and an engineering firm be awarded the contract to oversee the construction of a state-funded barrier along the Texas-Mexico border.

The Texas Facilities Commission, the state agency in charge of awarding the contract, announced on its website that it selected the partnership of Michael Baker International Inc. and Huitt-Zollars as the top candidate for the contract.

The agency said it would make a recommendation that its commissioners award the contract at its next meeting, which has not yet been scheduled. Once the commissioners act, the contract will be awarded in mid-September, the agency said.

The contract winner will be in charge of managing budgets as well as identifying state land for wall construction and be willing private landowners to facilitate construction, according to the request for proposal.

Three bidders competed for the contract. The value of the contract has not been determined yet.

In June, Gov. Greg Abbott, who has been a critic of President Joe Bidens immigration policies, announced a crowdfunding effort to pay for the wall and other barriers such as fencing. Abbott pledged $250 million of state money to start the effort.

As of Aug. 31, $54 million has been donated by the public.

Last week the state Legislature sent a bill allocating $1.88 billion in additional funds for border security to Abbotts desk. Of those funds, $750 million will be used to build border barriers. The governor has not yet signed the bill into law.

Its not clear how much money would be needed to build a wall or erect other barriers along the states 1,200-mile border with Mexico. Abbotts office previously has said it identified 733 miles of border that may need some type of barrier.

A contract awarded by the Texas Department of Transportation in June will spend $25 million for a nearly 2-mile stretch of concrete barrier along State Loop 480 in Eagle Pass.

Portions of the federal border wall started by the Trump administration, and put on hold by the Biden administration, ranged from $6 million per mile to $34 million per mile for construction.

Michael Baker International, which is headquartered in Pennsylvania, has four offices in the state, including in Dallas, Austin, Houston and San Antonio, according to its website. The engineering firm, which was previously called Michael Baker Corp., is known for erecting more than 500 miles of the current 654 miles of barrier built along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Huitt-Zollars, whose corporate office is in Dallas, has designed Border Patrol stations in Texas and California, according to its website. It also has designed ports of entry along the U.S.-Canada border.

James Barragan contributed to this report.

The Texas Tribune is a nonpartisan, nonprofit media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
Mateo Sparkman-Luna told his mother, Paloma Luna, he was going to paint sunsets with God after he died.

On Aug. 23, a rare and inoperable brain tumor took the 6-year-old's life. In the weeks since, his mother, father and two young sisters have looked for him in the orange glow at the end of each day.

Mateo died at home in Cibolo just hours after he finished putting photos of family members in picture frames. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and bravery that earned him an official city of Cibolo proclamation, a parade, a superhero certificate from a Batman impersonator who visits terminally ill children in hospitals, and thousands of fans who followed his journey on social media.

Paloma Luna

Through deteriorating speech, he uttered his final request: that his family wish him goodnight.

Mateo battled against diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a cancer that affects between 200 and 400 young children in the United States a year. It has a five-year survival rate of less than 1 percent.

Half the children die within nine months of diagnosis. Mateo fought for 369 days.

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He is survived by his parents, Paloma and Alex Sparkman-Royo, and sisters, 2-year-old Dahlia and 1-year-old Olivia.

Mateos battle ranged from hope to excruciating pain for his family as he lost, one by one, the things that defined him  his hair, the use of his legs and hands, his light and mischievous smirk.

Mateo, who loved Super Mario Bros. and strawberries-and-cream frappuccinos, signed the O in his name with a pumpkin and wanted to grow up to be an artist. When the boy lost the ability to draw, his father, Alex, told him that movie directors are artists, too. So Mateo directed his parents hands across the blank canvas.

Paloma Luna

Mateo was diagnosed with cancer on his second day of kindergarten. A spout of headaches and dizziness spun him between two separate pediatricians until a CT and MRI scan revealed the worst.

In a testament to his bravery, Mateo underwent 30 rounds of radiation treatment without anesthesia.

Last October, Mateo rang the end of treatment gong" at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Hes so brave, Paloma wrote on a Facebook page she and her husband created for their son.

It was among the first of many posts that eloquently expressed her faith, her fear and the fierce love she and Alex had for their son. The online journal, which attracted thousands of followers, traced their painful journey.

Paloma Luna

By December, Mateos symptoms appeared to have improved. But ever-present was the gnawing reminder of Mateos fate.

You dont want to think of what is to come, Paloma told a nonprofit organization months ago. Making memories is extremely important when the prognosis for (this particular form of cancer) is so dismal.

So they created as many memories as possible. Mateos smirk was captured in photos taken at Fiesta Texas, the Natural Bridge Caverns, a snake farm and SeaWorld San Antonio.

Paloma Luna

By New Years Eve, Mateo was on his fathers lap, surrounded by extended family. He blew a kazoo and wore emerald-green 2021 glasses.

Still, it was tough to stay optimistic when MRI scans showed minimal change in the size of the tumor.

In February, he participated in a trial at Columbia University in New York. Paloma and Alex told Mateo that he might not be able to walk, talk or move. He was apprehensive but told them he was looking forward to seeing the Statue of Liberty.

Kids are so strong, Paloma wrote.

Paloma Luna

Mateo, the Big Bad Guy

Paloma and Alex married soon after they met at Houston Baptist University. Alex joined the military and Mateo was born during his first year of medical school. Three years later, curly-haired Dahlia arrived, followed by Olivia last May.

Mateo immediately took to the role of big brother. He dried tears, shared toys and kept everyone in line.

At 3 years old, while Paloma was pregnant with Dahlia, Mateo would place a blanket on her while she slept on the couch.

You dont expect a three-and-a-half-year-old to do that, Paloma told the Express-News.

Paloma Luna

Just months after his diagnosis, he started a lemonade stand to raise money for a local animal shelter. He dropped off an envelope containing $674.50.

Even though he was known for his acts of kindness, his parents said he enjoyed playing the role of the villain.

He called himself Mateo, the Big Bad Guy and helped the Joker and Lex Luthor defeat Batman and Superman.

Paloma Luna

The fighter

Mateo celebrated his sixth birthday with the San Antonio Batman and a parade of strangers. Mateo handed out Mario and Luigi cookies, and viewers at home saw him on local television accepting a birthday present from Iron Man.

In April, as the family drove to Dallas for more treatments, his parents thought he might beat the odds.

But Mateo was diagnosed with leptomeningeal dissemination, an even more aggressive form of the cancer.

Paloma and Alex held back tears when they learned of the diagnosis. How long did he have?

Four weeks to four months, the doctor said.

Several days later, Paloma posted a photo of Mateo. He was holding up the world. The caption: Taking everything as it comes. Enjoy every moment.

Paloma Luna

Another round of radiation and experimental medications followed. His parents hoped it would buy him enough time for another trial. But Mateos health rapidly declined.

His attitude toward treatment changed. He was fed up with being poked and prodded. Tears ran down his cheeks during prep for radiation.

His speech declined and he choked more often while he ate and drank. When he received a wheelchair, he promised his parents he would regain the use of his legs. All he needed to do was exercise, he said.

By May, Mateo had made it past four weeks. But he lost his hair.

During a Facebook Live, a partly bald Mateo giggled as he shaved his fathers head and clipped his mothers ponytail. That was a good day.

Many bad days followed.

Vomiting and severe headaches sent him in and out of the emergency room and ICU for months. A photo posted on Facebook shows a teary-eyed Paloma kissing Mateos forehead as he sits, eyes closed, in the hospital bed.

I hate this f---ing cancer, she wrote on Facebook. There are no words to describe how horrible this feels.

Paloma Luna

Surgery followed. The doctors said it might relieve the pressure and swelling in his brain.

On May 29, Mateo returned home from the hospital. He got Starbucks and ate ratatouille while the family watched Disneys Ratatouille.

By June, the things that made Mateo himself faded in and out. He no longer smirked. The twinkle in his eye was gone, and he didnt want to draw or play video games.

Mateo was sick of throwing up and was over taking so many medications. At times, all he wanted to do was float weightlessly in the swimming pool.

I feel like our prayers and hopes have become more feeble and desperate, Paloma wrote on Facebook.

The family waited for another experimental trial but was told there would be further delays.

The city of Cibolo declared July 20 Mateo Sparkman-Luna Day. In a small ceremony with city officials and his family, Mateo was named police chief for a short while.

Soon after, Mateo returned to the emergency room. His passion for drawing and toys returned somewhat, but his frustration caused him to abandon multiple art projects.

The signs

On Aug. 19, Mateo reached the anniversary of his diagnosis, a milestone the family celebrated in a hotel on the San Antonio River Walk. There were balloons and presents waiting for him inside the room.

The family ate pancakes at La Villita, and Mateo munched on an Oreo paleta at Hemisfair. He appeared to have so much energy when they visited LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio and the aquarium at the Shops at Rivercenter.

But his health worsened. Three days later, at 1:01 a.m, Mateo died.

We arent ready to lose our baby and never will be, Paloma wrote on Facebook.

The evening after his death, Mateo's family took a walk to catch the sunset.

The center of the sunset looked like Mickey Mouse as it disappeared below the horizon. Dahlia saw a dolphin.

Mateo put on a show, Paloma said.

Mateos funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 17 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help on 16075 Evans Rd. in Selma. His celebration of life is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the San Antonio Zoo. He will be buried at Sunset Memorial Park in San Antonio in the Garden of Hope.

Timothy.Fanning@express-news.net
The Bexar County Sheriff's Office has identified the two men accused of shooting at two of its deputies early Thursday morning as 18-year-old Jacob Anthony Garcia and 31-year-old Hilario Gabriel Urista.

The deputies were responding to reports of a burglary in a far West Side neighborhood when the two men fired at them, Sheriff Javier Salazar said during a news conference Thursday.

Salazar, with his voice cracking with emotion, said by the grace of God his deputies were not killed or injured and called the suspects wannabe cop killers.

They are both facing attempted murder charges and one count of burglary in connection with the incident that ended with a physical altercation between a homeowner and one of the suspects.

On ExpressNews.com: Suspect on the run after shooting near The Shops at La Cantera, police say

Urista also had outstanding warrants in connection with multiple aggravated assault cases and was wanted for evading arrest and criminal mischief, BCSO said.

According to Salazar, one of the individuals fired seven rounds at the first deputy who arrived in the area of Baffin Peak near Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. Officials did not say whether it was Garcia or Urista who fired at the deputy.

Two of the rounds narrowly missed the deputy, hitting the patrol cars door frame and window, Salazar said. The deputy, who has worked patrol for the last year, was not able to return fire before the shooter ran to join the second suspect.

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Both were found hiding behind a vehicle in the 9800 block Twinbear Creek around the corner from the original shooting by a second deputy.

Salazar said the second suspect then began shooting at the deputy. He said both individuals were using a semi-automatic pistol.

After the second shooting, both men led the deputies on a foot pursuit, jumping over fences and attempting to break into several homes in the neighborhood, Salazar said.

On ExpressNews.com: Satanic Temple says Texas abortion law violates the religious freedom of its members

They were finally able to enter a residence and took vehicle keys from inside the home before they were confronted by the homeowner, according to Salazar.

That homeowner made sure that suspect wont ever forget trying to break into his house," said Salazar, describing a bloodied and beaten suspect. "Kudos to him for doing what he had to do.

Both deputies have been placed on administrative leave per protocol, the sheriff said.

Taylor.Pettaway@express-news.net
As they have since 1995, members of the Tap Pilam Coahuiltecan Nation will gather at the Alamo on Saturday for a sunrise service.

The tradition began 26 years ago, when they re-interred ancestral remains inside the Alamo chapel at the request of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, then the sites official caretakers.

Every year since then, in prayer and song, descendants of the Mission Indians have asked their ancestors for forgiveness.

On Saturday, like all the years before, theyll pray for forgiveness for those who unearthed their forebears remains. Theyll pray that no harm will come to the archaeologists, construction workers and others involved.

Theyll also seek forgiveness for themselves for being unable to halt the excavations that disturbed those final resting places.

The tribal community once had permission to hold its services in private inside the Alamo chapel. Since 2019, the nonprofit Alamo Trust, which operates the landmark for the Texas General Land Office, has denied access for this purpose, saying the chapel is available only for public tours, not private ceremonies.

That has left some tribal members, especially the young, feeling chiscados, said Ramon Vasquez, using a Spanish word meaning disoriented or traumatized.

I know people dont understand this, said Vasquez, a leader of the Tap Pilam and director of the nonprofit American Indians in Texas at the Spanish Colonial Missions. We feel its an infringement on our freedom of religion.

Nos chiscamos if we dont complete our vows, he said. Each year when we are prohibited (inside the chapel), we have to reaffirm to our children that it will be OK. But we dont know if it will or not.

Thats why its so hard for us. Its our spiritual beliefs, not just as Catholics but as a community that went through a missionization process.

The rift between the tribal group and the Land Office and Alamo Trust has been no secret. The trust and the Land Office cut the tribal group out of an archaeological committee that weighs in on changes at the Alamo and replaced its members with tribal representatives with no direct link to the Alamo or the missions.

Though there is ample evidence of a cemetery on the grounds of the Alamo and surrounding areas, the Alamo Trust and the Land Office denied the cemeterys existence before the Texas Historical Commission.

Later, they insisted the cemetery was limited. That wasnt true, either.

More than 1,000 people were buried in and around what is now the Alamo complex, including Alamo Plaza, the federal courthouse and the Emily Morgan Hotel.

Tap Pilam has asked for permission to hold Saturdays service inside the chapel at 7 a.m., two hours before the shrine opens to the public. The tribe said Wednesday it had not heard back from the trust or the Land Office.

So, Tap Pilam plans one service on the plaza at 7 a.m. and another inside the chapel at 9 a.m., when its members will line up with tourists to get in.

Theyll comply with this arrangement under protest, Vasquez said.

Members of the tribal community wont be able to gather inside the church at the same time, given social distancing requirements.

Despite the latest friction, the city of San Antonio has come a long way since Mayor Ron Nirenberg announced, in March, a reset of the $450 million public-private project to remake Alamo Plaza.

The mayor abandoned some particularly contentious aspects of the plan, such as the relocation of the Cenotaph, a 1930s memorial to the Alamo defenders. He also promised further research into the cemetery, and he involved the Tap Pilam in developing protocols for handling any remains discovered on city property.

The city commissioned an archival investigation into the cemetery by the University of Texas at San Antonios Center for Archaeological Research. The city has received the results, according to several sources.

Vasquez hopes the study will enrich our understanding of the Pueblo de Valero period from 1795 to 1825.

We have learned so much in the reset, content-wise, said Vasquez, a member of the citys Alamo Citizens Advisory Committee. He was referring to the role of slavery in the Texas Revolution and the civil rights history associated with the Woolworth building, on the west side of Alamo Plaza.

But, for me, the most frustrating piece is that we always skip over the Pueblo period, Vasquez said. We go from the mission period to the Tejanos and then the battle. What do you think happened in-between? Thats the story we havent heard.

The archival investigation could inform and reform the Alamo project. Until then, tribal members will honor their ancestors as best they can. On Saturday morning, theyll stand outside the Alamo chapel and recite the names of the dead, names theyve long remembered without benefit of archives.

eayala@express-news.net
With the latest U.S. census data showing a significant increase in communities of color over the past decade, a question arises whether political representation will accordingly shift when Texas adds two new congressional seats and reapportions its U.S. and state legislative districts.

For the first time in decades, these maps will be drawn in Texas without federal oversight. The Supreme Court in 2013 struck down a key provision in the Voting Rights Act that required Texas to get federal approval for its congressional maps. Jurisdictions will now have the ability to adopt district maps and have them take effect immediately without first proving they dont undercut the electoral power of voters of color. Communities, therefore, need to be vigilant and object to problematic plans during the legislative process.

These boundaries can be drawn in one of two ways. The first would balance population, interests, race and party leanings in such a way as to make all the votes roughly equal. The second would draw lines so that the incumbents maintain or possibly expand their grip on power.

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The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization, backs the first option, supporting a redistricting process and standards that promote fair and effective representation with maximum opportunity for public scrutiny.

Since the founding of the nation, politicians from all parties have found creative ways to draw district borders to maintain their control of government.

Gerrymandering has often been called the process of politicians selecting voters rather than voters selecting politicians. It creates safe seats, reduces competitive races and fuels ideological polarization. Politicians find little incentive to move to more centrist positions. It is the extreme elements within their party that pose a challenge. As the number of moderates in legislative bodies declines, the possibilities of bipartisan negotiations and compromises also diminish.

Texas House elections of 2016 help illustrate this point. Eighty-one of 150 house seats were uncontested. Sixty-six percent of the Legislature was determined before a single general election vote was cast. Ninety-seven percent of incumbents were re-elected.

The two federal rules that apply to the map-drawing process are: All districts within the state are of equal population, and minority votes must not be diluted. Partisan and incumbent manipulation, however, prohibits the intended outcome of these rules: one person, one vote and no racial gerrymandering. Democrats got 49.9 percent of the vote for Congress but 70 percent of the House seats in 1992, when they ruled state government. In 2018, Republicans got 50.4 percent of the votes for the House but 63 percent of the seats.

The Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that partisan gerrymandering is a political question beyond the reach of federal courts but that Congress and state legislatures could regulate it.

Packing and cracking, the tools used to manipulate districts, entails packing as many opposition voters as possible into the fewest districts and cracking down on areas with opposition stronghold and combining them with several areas of majority stronghold.

It is important to identify and challenge these practices. Let your legislators know that you want every vote to count. Political and racial gerrymandering distorts and undermines representative democracy. When done for purposes of racial discrimination, or to ensure the dominance of one political party, gerrymandering runs counter to equal voting rights for all eligible voters. Without preclearance protections this cycle, it is important to stay engaged in the redistricting process, help strengthen democracy and make it work for all through redistricting reforms.

Madhu Sridhar is president of the nonpartisan League of Women Voters of the San Antonio Area.
Consider, if you will, two photographs of legislation being signed in carefully staged ceremonies. The subject of both pieces of legislation is voting, a citizens most powerful tool in the workshop of democracy. The men signing the documents are both Texans.

Fifty-six years separate the two photographs, but the distance between the intent of the two pieces of legislation is much greater. The first was a voting rights bill, the second a voting restrictions bill.

In the first photo, President Lyndon B. Johnson, on Aug. 6, 1965, signs into law the Voting Rights Act, or VRA, a bill that not only was the crown jewel of the civil rights movement but was the culmination of 178 years  since the writing of the Constitution, which limited voting to propertied white males  of efforts to expand that right to vote.

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Too slowly, too painfully and against too much resistance, that expansion would include, chronologically, Black men (the 15th Amendment), women (the 19th Amendment) and all the barriers still disenfranchising Black people (the VRA). In 1971, it would expand that right to 18-year-olds through the 26th Amendment.

The thread running through all fights to expand the vote was the understanding that elections have integrity only when the ballot box is easily and equally accessible to all eligible voters. That was the accomplishment activists such as Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis, and politicians such as LBJ and Sen. Everett Dirksen, R-Ill., celebrated with the VRAs signing.

In the second photo, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, on Tuesday, signs into law Senate Bill 1, the purpose of which is to suppress the vote by making it unnecessarily restrictive in a state that already has the most restrictive voting laws in the nation  and just completed a fair and accurate election.

No feature in this new law  not the bans on drive-thru voting, 24-hour voting and the distribution of mail-in applications; not the new ID requirements for voting by mail; not the enhanced partisan poll-watcher protections; not the new rules and possible criminal penalties for voter assistance  is in response to any problems during the 2020 primary and general elections. These are elections the Texas secretary of state called smooth and secure.

LBJ and his bipartisan supporters, including Dirksen, the Republican minority leader, were moved to correct injustices, but Abbott and his colleagues in the Republican-led Texas Legislature appear afraid they cant honestly compete for all votes.

Abbott signed SB 1 in Tyler, home of the bills main author, Republican Sen. Bryan Hughes. Throughout the ceremony, Hughes seemed almost giddy.

To get to the VRA in the summer of 1965, the Edmund Pettus Bridge had to be crossed in Selma, Ala., and women and men were beaten, and lives were lost.

Sacrifices and suffering led to the passage and the signing of the legislation.

What bridges were crossed to get to Tyler in the summer of 2021? How many bodies were beaten? How many lives were lost?

What sacrifices and suffering did the smiling Hughes and preening Abbott endure to make it harder for fellow Texans to vote?

The 1965 photograph preserved a moment when historic figures gathered to expand the democratic promise of the United States.

The 2021 photograph captured a moment when small, unimaginative elected officials responded to the falsehood of widespread voter fraud with very real voter suppression.

Fifty-six years from now, the latter wont hold up as well as the former.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration is suing Texas over the states new abortion ban  the strictest in the nation  warning that if the law is allowed to stand, it could become a model for states to trample constitutionally protected rights of all kinds.

The act is clearly unconstitutional under long-standing Supreme Court precedent, Attorney General Merrick Garland said as he announced the legal action Thursday. This kind of scheme to nullify the Constitution of the United States is one that all Americans  whatever their politics or party  should fear.

The lawsuit comes after the Supreme Court last week voted 5-4 to deny an emergency appeal from abortion providers and others, letting the law take effect. The court, however, did not rule on the constitutionality of the law, leaving the door open to future challenges.

BACKGROUND: Biden pledges to protect women from bizarre Texas abortion ban

The law, which Texas Republicans have touted as a new national model, bans abortions once medical professionals can detect a heartbeat, usually around six weeks, a point at which most women have not realized theyre pregnant.

The law does not rely on police or prosecutors to enforce its provisions, however. Instead, it empowers private individuals to bring civil lawsuits against those who assist women in obtaining abortions outside the laws tight time limits. Under the law, these civilian enforcers can win up to $10,000 in damages from the targets of their lawsuits.

Republican lawmakers in several other red states, including Florida, Arkansas and Indiana, have said they plan to push legislation modeled after the Texas law.

Texas Republicans, meanwhile, were confident the law would stand.

The most precious freedom is life itself, said Renae Eze, spokeswoman for Gov. Greg Abbott. Texas passed a law that ensures that the life of every child with a heartbeat will be spared from the ravages of abortion.  We are confident that the courts will uphold and protect that right to life.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a tweet that he will use every available resource to fight for life.

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Jonathan Saenz, president and attorney of the conservative nonprofit Texas Values, said in a statement that the Biden Administration is weaponizing the Department of Justice to file a fake political lawsuit with no legal basis.

We will fight the D.C. establishment every step of the way, he said.

While womens rights groups and Democrats, including President Joe Biden, have said the law is an unprecedented assault on womens rights, Garland warned that the enforcement mechanism it establishes could open the door for more states to trample on the Constitution.

If it prevails, it may become a model for action in other areas by other states and with respect to other constitutional rights and precedents, Garland said. Nor need one not think long or hard to realize the damage that would be done to our society if states were allowed to implement laws and empower any private individual to infringe on anothers constitutionally protected rights in this way.

No state can deprive individuals of their constitutional rights through a legislative scheme specifically designed to prevent the vindication of those rights, he said.

Lawsuit spells out impact on federal agencies

The lawsuit, which the Justice Department filed in the Western District of Texas on Thursday, also argues that the Texas law would interfere with a slew of federal agencies, contending that it opens federal employees up to lawsuits from private citizens and would increase costs for the federal government to reimburse contractors.

By prohibiting nearly all abortions in Texas after six weeks of pregnancy, without exceptions for rape, sexual abuse, or incest, SB 8 unconstitutionally conflicts with the statutory and constitutional responsibilities of the federal government, says the lawsuit, referring to Senate Bill 8.

For instance, the lawsuit says states that participate in the Medicaid program must cover various medically necessary procedures, including abortion.

The lawsuit says military medical facilities in Texas provide abortion services where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or in a case in which the pregnancy is the result of an act of rape or incest.

The Bureau of Prisons must provide access to inmates in its care in Texas who elect to have an abortion that the Constitution guarantees them, the lawsuit says.

The lawsuit, filed after Democrats spent nearly two weeks looking for ways to defeat the Texas law, also argues that its provisions would force the Office of Refugee Resettlement to transport unaccompanied children in its care to other states if they request abortion-related services.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has vowed that the House would take a vote on a bill to enshrine into law reproductive health care for all women when it returns to Washington this month. And members of the House Judiciary Committee called on the Justice Department to pursue criminal charges against Texans who sue to enforce it, calling them would-be vigilantes.

Texas Democrats cheered the Biden administration for stepping in.

Heres the message this sends to the millions of Texans affected by Abbotts ban: You are seen. Your rights matter. And your federal government is fighting for you, said Hannah Roe Beck, co-executive director of the Texas Democratic Party.

Josh Blackman, a constitutional law professor at South Texas College of Law Houston, said Garlands argument makes sense. But he said he doesnt believe it actually matters for the litigation, which he predicted will struggle in the same ways as the legal challenge the Supreme Court shot down last week.

I suppose if it works in Texas, blue states will try to copy it as well, he said. But the case doesnt fall on whether other states can copy it. The courts will assess it on its own merit, not what it will lead to in other cases.

ben.wermund@chron.com

twitter.com/benjaminew


The CEO of Croatia Airlines, Jasmin Bajic, has said the carrier is in talks with Slovenian authorities over improving connectivity between Zagreb and Ljubljana. He noted that the Slovenian capital has potential for flights such as Skopje - Ljubljana - Zagreb since over 40.000 passengers flew between Macedonias and Slovenias largest cities each year prior to the bankruptcy of Adria Airways in late September of 2019. The route has been unserved since. Ljubljana Airports operator Fraport Slovenija previously expressed interest in Croatia Airlines serving Vienna, Skopje, Prague and Copenhagen out of the Slovenian capital. Ljubljana Airports General Manager, Zmago Skobir, recently said talks were underway with a carrier from the European Union to set up a base in the Slovenian capital, without naming the airline. It is no secret that we are working on having at least one of the EU airlines set up a smaller base at the airport. We believe this would be the fastest and most effective way to improve our countrys air connectivity, he noted. The CEO of Croatia Airlines, Jasmin Bajic, has said the carrier is in talks with Slovenian authorities over improving connectivity between Zagreb and Ljubljana. He noted that the Slovenian capital has potential for flights such as Skopje - Ljubljana - Zagreb since over 40.000 passengers flew between Macedonias and Slovenias largest cities each year prior to the bankruptcy of Adria Airways in late September of 2019. The route has been unserved since. Ljubljana Airports operator Fraport Slovenija previously expressed interest in Croatia Airlines serving Vienna, Skopje, Prague and Copenhagen out of the Slovenian capital. Ljubljana Airports General Manager, Zmago Skobir, recently said talks were underway with a carrier from the European Union to set up a base in the Slovenian capital, without naming the airline. It is no secret that we are working on having at least one of the EU airlines set up a smaller base at the airport. We believe this would be the fastest and most effective way to improve our countrys air connectivity, he noted.





Croatia Airlines initially held talks with the Slovenian government over launching operations from Ljubljana last year. The airline proposed the stationing of a Dash 8 turboprop aircraft. Croatia Airlines is potentially interested in establishing flights from Ljubljana Airport in order to enable passengers from Slovenia to connect to European destinations, the carrier said at the time. However, no final deal was reached with the authorities. The head of Croatia Airlines Commercial Division, Slaven Zabo, said last year, We have had some gain on the Slovenian market since Adria Airways bankruptcy where we offered certain solutions in order to react to the demand that was there. However, we had not added any flights to Slovenia because our hubs are nearby and we were more focused on our sales and marketing activities in Ljubljana at the time, which helped us significantly increase our market share in Slovenia.





Croatia Airlines previously toyed with the idea of setting up bases outside of its home market. In 2017 the airline planned to station aircraft in Sarajevo, Pristina, Skopje and Tirana. At the time, it said, "Market research data has shown that there is a potential for the successful opening of additional bases in the south-eastern European region and Croatia Airlines, as a European Union community carrier, has recognised its business interest in this. The prerequisite for this is to purchase four to six new aircraft and extensive preparations are underway. However, the idea was abandoned upon the departure of the carriers CEO at the time, Kresimir Kucko, to Gulf Air.








SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  Some incoming Afghan refugees were greeted by two members of New Mexicos all-female U.S. House delegation, from opposite ends of the political spectrum, at Holloman Air Force Base.

Afghans evacuated in recent days by the American military are largely being processed at U.S. government facilities across the country, including Holloman outside Alamogordo and nearby Fort Bliss in westernmost Texas, before going to resettlement agencies that will determine their final destinations.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Melanie Stansbury of Albuquerque said Wednesday she felt fortunate to meet at Holloman with an Afghan interpreter who is seeking refuge in the U.S. with a wife and two children, as well as a support group for women seeking asylum in the U.S.

As these families transition into American life, there are different gender norms here in the U.S. Thatll be part of the journey as well, Stansbury said of the Tuesday tour of the air base.

Republican U.S. Rep. Yvette Herrell recounted her contact with a plane load of about 150 evacuees from Afghanistan as they arrived at Holloman. She said the base is expecting to accommodate 5,000 refugees by Friday.

They had just landed, so obviously Im interacting with them, said Herrell, an Alamogordo resident. The first thing that happens ... they get refreshment, water, food and then they go to a quick medical screening."

Herrell and Stansbury were accompanied at the base on Tuesday by an Air Force general, a Homeland Security coordinator and State Department official.

Herrell expressed a combination of pride in the humanitarian effort toward resettlement  and trepidation over security vetting procedures for refugees.

To see a humanitarian effort take shape in this capacity, it touches my heart and it truly makes me proud to be an American," she said.

She described Herculean efforts by contractors and military personnel to set up tents with living quarters, including private spaces to accommodate individual families, and provide medical care including COVID-19 testing.

My biggest concern is the vetting process for asylum-seekers, Herrell said. And we pressed the general yesterday on these issues."

Lawyers representing refugees and special immigrant visa holders say the wait time for approval is at least two years while background checks and interviews are conducted.

Herrell says she worries Afghan refugees won't all go through that process, and that U.S. doesn't have access to enough reliable data on Afghan nationals. She opposes any artificial deadlines for security vetting.

Stansbury called those concerns political talking points," and says she is confortable with the vetting process at multiple stages in the resettlement process.

Theyre not based on the reality of what our armed services and the State Department and the FBI and others are doing to make sure that the people that we helped to evacuate were people that were allies ... people that qualify for resettlement and services here in the U.S.," she said.

Herrell said her concerns about proper vetting do not signal disapproval of resettlement efforts.

"The refugees that are coming here seeking safety and looking for a new way of life, certainly they want to be protected also," Herrell said. There needs to be a more robust vetting process at these facilities where theyre stopping before they come to America.

New Mexico has a new slate of first-term representatives in Congress.

In 2018, Herrell flipped New Mexicos southern District 2 seat to Republican control while embracing then-President Donald Trumps border wall strategy and espousing a pro-petroleum philosophy in a major U.S. oil-production hub.

Stansbury won a special election in June on a progressive political platform to fill the former congressional seat of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has offered New Mexico as a ready participant in efforts to assist with Afghan refugees seeking asylum.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Susana Duenas could hardly believe the news: Mexicos Supreme Court had decided that abortion could not be considered a crime. The 38-year-old woman from central Mexico had spent six and a half years in prison on just that charge.

The court ruled unanimously Tuesday that parts of a law in the northern border state of Coahuila criminalizing abortion were unconstitutional. The decision immediately compels judges across the nation to consider cases with that ruling in mind. And there are thousands of open cases in Mexico against women accused of illegal abortions.

Duenas comes from the conservative state of Guanajuato, one of the 28 states that still outlaws abortion with some limited exceptions.

It was moving to think that there arent going to be (more) women like us  people jailed for abortions  Duenas said. She was one of nine Guanajuato women released from prison in September 2010, not because the state declared them innocent, but because their sentences were reduced with help from an activist organization.

Duenas was 19 in 2004, when she said she felt like something had detached inside her, went to the bathroom and then went to the hospital. She said she had miscarried, but hospital workers accused her of trying to terminate her pregnancy and called police.

Two detectives stood at the foot of her bed until she was released into their custody. She was later convicted of homicide by a judge and sentenced to 20 years. Cellmates bullied her in prison because of the charge, she said.

Tuesdays decision will not immediately result in legal abortion being available across Mexico, experts say. The Roman Catholic Church remains a powerful factor, especially in more conservative states.

Only four Mexican states  Mexico City, Oaxaca, Veracruz and Hidalgo  now allow abortion in most circumstances.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court made another critical decision, ruling that the local constitution in the western state of Sinaloa violated Mexico's constitution by defending life from the moment of conception and thereby ignoring women's rights. Some 20 such state constitutions include similar provisions.

On Wednesday, Mexican bishops said that the Supreme Courts decision displayed a dangerous and disproportionate contrast between the defense of womens rights and the rights of the unborn. Anti-abortion organizations demonstrated in downtown Mexico City, projecting images of fetuses on the walls of the Supreme Court building and the sound of a heartbeat.

Veronica Cruz, director of The Free, a nongovernmental organization that fought to free Duenas and the other women, estimated that it could take another five years to change criminal codes state by state.

There are currently no women imprisoned in Mexico for abortion, but there are approximately 4,600 open cases across the country, Cruz said.

Supreme Court President Arturo Zaldivar said Wednesday that public attorneys would be made available to defend those women. Cruz said the most useful step would be simply closing the cases.

The journey to this moment began nearly a century ago, in the 1930s, when there were proposals to have the state regulate abortion, wrote anthropologist and feminist Marta Lamas in a 2009 piece in Nueva Sociedad magazine. Another big push to decriminalize abortion in Mexico followed in the 1970s.

But it was not until 2007 that Mexico City became the first jurisdiction in Mexico to make abortion legal. By that time, Duenas had already been in prison for three years, more than 200 miles from the capital.

Critics of the capital's move to legalize abortion filed challenges, but the Supreme Court  then more conservative than the current one  ruled that it was constitutional.

Constitutional reforms promising greater human rights followed, as well as training for lawyers and judges more oriented toward human rights and gender issues as the problem of femicides drew condemnation from international human rights agencies.

Tuesdays decision resulted from a case filed in 2017 by then federal Attorney General Raul Cervantes challenging the Coahuila law as unconstitutional.

How great that now after so many years of fighting, of sharing our experiences, its been achieved, Duenas said from her home in Santa Teresa, Guanajuato, where for years she was shunned by conservative neighbors. Women and their rights must be respected.

The circumstances of Duenas release still bother her, because she was never cleared of the criminal charge. Back then, her priority was winning her release as soon as possible, so her lawyers pursued the sentence reduction rather than appealing the conviction.

Now she wants to have her name cleared. I would like them to say they made a mistake, she said.

__

AP writer Christopher Sherman contributed to this report.
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Sun and clouds mixed. High around 75F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies. Low 42F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.
A California man charged in the shooting death of a Broadwater County deputy and subsequent high-speed chase and shootout with troopers and police from several counties will go on trial Thursday in Butte.

The trial for 65-year-old Lloyd Mortier Barrus was moved to Butte because of pretrial publicity in Broadwater County, where Deputy Mason Moore was killed around 2:30 a.m. on May 16, 2017 after pursuing Barrus and his son, Marshall Barrus, on U.S. 287.

Prosecutors believe Moore was hit by a bullet during the chase, came to a stop a few miles south of the I-90 interchange, and was still alive when Lloyd Barrus turned a Chevy Suburban around, pulled up and Marshall Barrus fired more shots into Moore, killing him.

Butte-Silver Bow police spotted the Suburban speeding westbound on I-90 an hour later, officers from several agencies joined the chase and the pursuit ended in a shootout in Missoula County. Marshall Barrus was killed and his father was hit in the hand and arrested.

The suspects traveled about 160 miles from where Moore was killed near Three Forks to Mile Marker 129 on I-90 just inside Missoula County. Stop sticks punctured three of the Suburbans tires but it traveled another five miles before it was completely disabled.

The suspects had anti-law enforcement views and talked often of going on a suicide mission involving police, prosecutors say.

Moore was 42 and left a wife and three children.

Lloyd Barrus was initially charged with 24 felonies but they were consolidated to deliberate homicide tied to Moores death, two counts of attempted deliberate homicide for shooting and trying to kill other officers, and assault on an officer.

Prosecutors initially sought the death penalty but dropped that because Barrus has had extensive mental health issues that could have been a significant mitigating circumstance for imposing death. He faces up to life in prison if convicted on any of the homicide charges.

Jury selection was done at the Butte Civic Center on Tuesday and opening arguments are set to begin Thursday. District Judge Kathy Seeley from Helena is overseeing the trial, which could take up to three weeks and is being held at the Butte-Silver Bow Courthouse.

Barrus mental health is one reason it has taken so long for the case to go to trial. He was diagnosed with delusional disorder and mixed personality disorder with antisocial and narcissistic features, and was addicted to alcohol and marijuana.

He was found unfit to stand trial and refused to take antipsychotic drugs to treat his delusional disorder, which manifests in beliefs that he is either Jesus Christ or Michael the Archangel, according Virginia Hill, the head psychiatrist at the Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs.

Seeley ordered that Barrus be given antipsychotic medications via injection to render him competent to stand trial and aid his defense, since he refused to take the drugs orally.

Defense attorneys appealed that but the Montana Supreme Court upheld the order last year. Justices said the state has an interest in gaining a conviction because a criminal commitment to the State Hospital could last for years while a civil commitment could see Barrus released in as little as three months.

Barrus filed a federal lawsuit in February 2020 alleging he was arrested without a grand jury indictment, threatened with the death penalty and has been denied a speedy trial, among other claims. The suit sought $11 million in damages.

A federal judge dismissed most of the claims in June 2020, saying the court would not interfere with the states judicial process, including the order that he be forcibly medicated.

Those and other factors have delayed a trial, as have the hundreds of court motions prosecutors and defense attorneys filed involving charges, discovery matters, court orders, expert witnesses and other issues.

The state could potentially call more than 30 expert witnesses alone, plus numerous troopers and sheriffs and deputies involved in the chase and shootout. At least 14 officers engaged in the shootout.

Marshall Barrus was firing a rifle during the chase, prosecutors say, and he disabled two patrol cars from Butte-Silver Bow. After stopping, Marshall Barrus got out of the passenger side firing a rifle and his father was firing a 9mm Glock.

The initial response, chase and shootout involved officers from the counties of Broadwater, Gallatin, Butte-Silver Bow, Anaconda-Deer Lodge, Powell, Granite and Missoula.

Broadwater County Attorney Cory Swanson is trying the case along with prosecutors from the Montana Attorney Generals Office. Defense attorneys include Greg Jackson from Missoula and Craig Shannon from Missoula.

After a standoff with police in California in 2000, Barrus was also found mentally unfit to stand trial. The court ordered involuntary medication with antipsychotic drugs. Barrus was restored to competency and convicted of assaulting an officer.

Barrus was living in California, most recently Bakersfield according to his Facebook page, and came to Gallatin County on May 7, 2017, to visit Marshall, who was staying with friends in the area, prosecutors say.

They went to a rural campground with Marshalls girlfriend and their children on May 15, drank alcohol throughout the night and left in the Suburban shortly before 2 a.m. on May 16, prosecutors say. One child said Marshall struck him when he would not go on a suicide mission with him.

The Suburban sped past Moore on U.S. 287 going south at 2:30 a.m. and he activated his lights and gave chase, ultimately giving dispatch a vehicle description and California license plate number. He pursued them for eight miles, going past the I-90 crossing, before he was initially hit by a bullet, prosecutors say.

His patrol video showed the car stopping in some grass, and after some silence, Moore can be heard moaning. Based on tire tracks and other evidence, prosecutors believe Lloyd Barrus did a U-turn, pulled next to Moores car and Marshall fired the fatal shots.

A trooper arrived at the scene at 2:45 a.m. and found Moore dead. An autopsy determined he had been struck twice in the shoulder and twice in the head.

The trooper observed 24 bullet holes or marks on the windshield and other parts of Moores car and he found 19 cartridges next to the car, all fired from a .308-caliber rifle.

During his arraignment, Barrus pleaded not guilty to 24 initial felony counts and one misdemeanor. When he asked to address the court, the judge cautioned him against speaking to preserve his right to remain silent.

He spoke anyway.

Your honor, I understand it and I appreciate what you have to say, but I still do want to say please tell Officer Moores wife and kids Im sorry for their loss," Barrus said.

In March 2000, Lloyd Barrus, another son and a woman were arrested after a high-speed chase and armed standoff with police in Death Valley, California that lasted more than 18 hours.

The three had fled from a Nevada trooper who tried to stop them and drove 70 miles before their car broke down. They ran and hid in a gully before exchanging gunfire with police, reportedly damaging a California Highway Patrol helicopter and forcing it to land.

In 2002, Lloyd Barrus pleaded guilty to assault on a peace officer in that case and was sentenced to 15 years in prison but was sent to a California state hospital for treatment of psychiatric issues.

Twelve jurors and three alternates were chosen to hear the case starting Thursday in Butte.
(The Center Square)  The Montana Chamber of Commerce wants the states core infrastructure needs prioritized as the U.S. House of Representatives sets a late September vote on an approximately $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill.

The chamber wants to see funding first for the core assets like roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems, Bridger Mahlum, its government affairs director, told The Center Square. The chamber looks at infrastructure needs almost from a hierarchal perspective, much like a food pyramid with its base layer, he said.

I know there are wastewater systems in communities out in eastern Montana that I believe are at least 100 years old. And some of them still are using wood as part of the piping. So, there's some core stuff that needs to happen in some of these communities to get up to speed, Mahlum said.

The condition of these systems explains why they want those four core assets to get most of the attention if the federal infrastructure bill is passed.

The bipartisan bill that U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., sponsored includes approximately $2.82 billion for Montanas highways and another $225 million for a new bridge initiative to replace and repair bridges, he said in a statement. The state would get $1 billion for rural water projects.

Public transit would get another $164 million over five years and the states airports would receive $144 million in funding, Tester said. A $15 million allocation would enable a study of Amtrak long-distance passenger rail travel. Working groups like the Greater Northwest Passenger Rail Working Group would be authorized to study and advocate for increased access to rail travel.

The chamber agrees with the expansion of what falls under the infrastructure as needs are determined. Airports and schools are two examples, along with broadband investment to get it out into rural areas.

Each state would get $100 million to plan and propose broadband deployment to areas that lack internet service, part of a $42.45 billion grant program that extends nationwide, Tester said. Other funding would target reducing wildfire risk and improving flood mitigation.

We've taken an all the above approach when it comes to infrastructure investment. But we do want to see that essential pieces that create commerce and community  the roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems  that those are prioritized first in every case, Mahlum said.
A group of Three Forks residents are suing the Montana Department of Transportation, trying to put the kibosh on plans to build a new rest stop at the Interstate 90-Highway 287 interchange near Three Forks and alleging the entire process has violated the Montana Constitution.

The suit was filed recently in Broadwater County District Court. At issue is a land swap, whereby Bozemans 19th Street exit rest stop would be traded to a land developer for the new rest stop across the highway from where he has additional development in the works.

That development  a Targeted Economic Development District  is located just north of the interchange, across Highway 287 from Wheat Montana Deli & Bakery. Bridger Brewing has started construction on a planned brewery in the TEDD; there also has been talk of an amphitheater also being built there, but there are rumors that project has been canceled.

Craig Rickert, who was the developer of the Bozeman Walmart and other Walmarts in Montana, is one developer with interest in the TEDD.

All parties to the lawsuit own property on and/or reside in the Wheatland area near the proposed rest stop. The suit was filed by Justin and Laura Brewer, Amy Gibson, Larry Weidinger, Heather Bennett, Corey Williams and Schogia LLC. Schogia is the corporation for the Wheatland Meadows Developers.

In essence, the suit claims that the MDOT is a state agency and must obey the Montana Constitution, particularly when it is dealing with state property and state money, which come from state taxpayers.

Rickert recently met with the editorial staff of the Belgrade News but refused to comment on the record regarding this development. He additionally said he cant even comment on when he might be able to comment on the record.

He did say that the interstate corridor between Bozeman, Three Forks, Butte and Helena was ripe for development, which is coming whether local residents want it or not.

As the Belgrade News reported a couple of weeks ago, Rickert owes the IRS more than $900,000 in a personal tax lien dating back to 2016. He also refused to speak on the record about that.

The suit by Three Forks residents alleges that:

The Montana Department of Transportation violated the plaintiffs rights under the Montana Constitution by not providing notice to the area landowners and failing to have open meetings prior to the decision to switch and trade the rest stops. The suit claims the process didnt comply with Montana law regarding bidding, notice and sale requirements for the sale of state land, and that from start to finish, MDT violated the Montana Administrative Procedures Act (MAPA) when it decided to issue a contract for the site selection.

Most neighbors of the project say they only became aware of the rest stop/development plan when they were invited to an informational meeting on July 20. There, they were told it was already a done deal.

MDT awarded the contract to Montana Rest Area JV Partners after soliciting bids for a new rest area to replace the Bozeman one under a design-build process. State officials say the public notification requirements are different for design-build contracts because a higher level of confidentiality in necessary in those negotiations.

The suit asks the court to set aside the entire MDT decision because the agency violated the Montana Constitution. It alleges that MDT needed to provide landowners an opportunity to take part in the decisions regarding the land swap of the two rest areas; that MDT made decisions of significant interest to the public without notice; and that MDTs decisions do not meet the exemption requirements found in state law in MCA 2-3-112.

The suit alleges that MDT failed to prepare and distribute an environmental impact statement as ordered by the Montana Environmental Policy Act, and that the agency never held a public meeting or notified the press in the early stages of site selection.

It also alleges various violations of the Montana Constitution, Articles II sections 8 and 9.

The suit alleges that the sale of state land must comply with state law because the rest stop is owned by the state, and that MDT ignored state law when it agreed to sell the rest stop.

The suit alleges that the sale violated MAPA when it agreed to sell to the developers pushing the rest stop switch.

It asks that all decisions by MDT regarding the Three Forks rest stop and the sale and swap of the Bozeman rest stop be voided, set aside and cancelled because they violate Montana law.

The suit also asks the court to order MDT to pay the plaintiffs legal fees.
The Dorset farmer campaigning to change the law following the death of his Highland cow due to a dog attack is one step closer to ensuring the safety of livestock across the UK.

After his pregnant cow Gladis died due to a dog attack in May, Cameron Farquharson began campaigning to make it a legal requirement for dogs to be on leads around livestock.

With the backing of West Dorset MP Chris Loder and Farming Minister Victoria Prentis, the Gladis' Law campaign has been successful in driving livestock worrying to the forefront of new legislation.

Because of the work by campaigners, the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill will see extra protections for livestock included within it.

The Bill passed its first reading in the House of Commons this summer, but more stages remain in both the Commons and the Lords until Royal Assent is given.

Under the proposed changes, walkers will now face criminal prosecution if their dog chases any livestock to the point of causing harm or abortion.

They will also be prosecuted if their dogs is off their lead or out of control in a field of sheep, poultry, or enclosed game birds.

The team behind the Gladis campaign have been working since May petitioning the government and getting as many people behind the campaign as possible.

The campaign has even received donations from people all across the UK, totalling an impressive 40,000 as of Thursday 9 September.

Mr Farquharson said he wanted to create a charity in Gladiss name where the funds would go to help and support farming families who were struggling.

"We would like to thank the media for covering the campaign," he said, "We'd also like to thank the farming community and every single person that has supported us in changing the law to keep our livestock safe.

"The support from others really helped my family get through these difficult months, and its important for us that we can do the same for others when they need that support.
Farmers in Northern Ireland have until tomorrow to respond to the government's consultation on its new strategy to eradicate bovine TB.

The proposals are currently being consulted upon as part of a new long-term strategy to eradicate bovine TB from the province.

Measures include new steps to tackle TB in wildlife, the testing of non-bovines for bTB, and the increased use of the interferon gamma blood test in cattle.

Farmers may also see changes to the level and rates on which compensation is paid out to those who lose cows to the disease.

Compensation is currently paid at 100% of an animals full market value with no fixed upper limit, but the government is proposing to reduce this to 75%.

The government said the change would ensure a 'more appropriate balance' between reasonable compensation for farmers and protecting the interests of taxpayers.

Ahead of the consultation deadline on Friday (10 September), the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) is urging all farmers to respond 'with urgency'.

The union said it had been two generations since farmers in Northern Ireland had the opportunity to voice their opinion on bovine TB.

"I cannot stress enough how important it is for farmers to complete the short questionnaire even if livestock are not at the core of their business, the impact of their response cannot be underestimated," president Victor Chestnutt said.

"Farmers must support each other, and all input is needed to influence the future of a bTB eradication strategy in NI and develop a solution that will work for the farming industry.

"Its the first opportunity in decades to influence a change to the TB eradication strategy and we must not let it pass us by.

But one of the major worries among farmers is any cut in the level of compensation paid out, as the government intends to reduce this by 25 percent.

Mr Chestnutt said this would seriously affect the viability of farming businesses across the province.

"Not to mention the most they will pay for any one animal regardless of breeding is 5,000," he explained.

"Both of which has impacted our view on other proposals within the consultation especially on gamma testing and additional cost directed at our farmers."

Ahead of the deadline, the Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) said it wanted to hear the views of all stakeholders.

"We cannot continue to use the same strategy yielding poor results for the taxpayer, industry and animal disease," DAERA minister Edwin Poots said.

"Therefore, I am also proposing changes to the level and rates on which compensation is paid and will seek views on this."

He added: To eradicate TB, all factors which contribute to the spread and maintenance of the disease in the environment must be addressed through a holistic approach,"
MPs are being encouraged to show their support for British farming as part of an annual initiative which aims to celebrate agriculture and its importance to the UK economy.

Now in it's sixth year, the NFU's Back British Farming Day (Wednesday 15 September) shines a spotlight on the work that farmers do.

The initiative gives producers an opportunity to promote their commitment to high production and environmental standards.

It also aims to highlight the importance of the industry to the UK economy, contributing over 120bn each year and employing four million people.

Prominent farming accounts on social media have started to encourage farmers, the public and MPs to join in.

Want to get your hands on our #BackBritishFarmingDay printable signs? Visit https://t.co/6IAyeC02BR today to get yours ???????? Tag us in your pictures and make sure to use the #BackBritishFarmingDay hashtag in your tweets! pic.twitter.com/vgds56BrO8  National Farmers' Union (@NFUtweets) September 9, 2021

Calling all Young Farmers ahead of #BackBritishFarmingDay on 15 September! Download the poster from @NFUtweets and start sharing how proud you are to be a food producer! https://t.co/yS9ztSH6ZW

Please tag @NFYFC and we'll share your posts too. #YoungFarmers pic.twitter.com/7HA5i2ZA0s  NFYFC (@NFYFC) September 9, 2021

Parliamentarians will be able to show their support for farming by wearing a wool and wheatsheaf pin badge in Westminster on the day, provided by the NFU.

The public can also get involved by tweeting their local MP and asking them to wear their badge during Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions.

The NFU said: "Back British Farming Day is an annual celebration of British farming and the contribution our farmers make to growing our food, shaping and caring for our countryside and farmed landscapes.

"Now in its sixth year, on Back British Farming Day the NFU is holding several events to reinforce to policy makers the importance of British farming."

The NFU will also use the day to launch a new report that will showcase the high standards that British farmers adhere to.
Dozens of Scottish farms and estates have made a commitment to uphold the best environmental practices as part of a Europe-wide accreditation scheme.

Wildlife Estates is a best practice land management accreditation scheme that includes landholdings from 19 European countries.

Accredited farms make a commitment to promote the best management and conservation practices, and are recognised as managing their wildlife resources sustainably.

Scotland currently sits second in its league table of accredited land with 1.25 million acres, behind only Spain which has approximately 1.6 million acres.

Accredited landholdings in Scotland currently have stewardship of 97 nationally protected sites and 79 internationally designated sites.

Wildlife Estates Scotland (WES) aims to double the size of accredited land to 2.5 million acres by 2023.

Dee Ward, chair of WES and owner of the 8,000-acre Rottal Estate, said it was vital that landowners role as guardians of the environment was encouraged and promoted.

He points out that Scotland has a biodiversity intactness index (BII) rating of just 56% - the best rated nation in the UK but still behind Canada on 89% and Germany on 67%.

Dee Ward, chair of WES, says it is vital that landowners' role as environmental guardians is encouraged

Mr Ward said: "Landholdings are already undertaking vital conservation work that goes above and beyond what many would expect but we should always be looking to do more.

"Environmental work often comes at significant financial cost to businesses but land managers see their role as custodians of their local habitat and want to help a rich array of wildlife to flourish."

A total of 64 farms and estates have reached the schemes gold standard level 2 independent accreditation, enabling landholdings to measure how they are contributing to government climate change and biodiversity targets.

Diverse landholdings from 250 acres to tens of thousands of acres have achieved accreditation, including Philiphaugh Estate, Abernethy RSPB Reserve, Reay Forest Estate and Threepwood Farm.

At Rottal, conservation projects underway or already complete include a 120,000 tree contour planting scheme and the restoration of 300 hectares of peatland over the next five years.

Mr Ward said: "We have significant ambitions to grow Wildlife Estates Scotland which is an important lever in promoting best practice in helping the nations meet its climate change targets, and also recognising the great work that already takes place.
2020 was a year marked by hardships and challenges, but the Fauquier community has proven resilient. The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you for your continued support, wed like to offer all our subscribers -- new or returning --

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We are dedicated to providing the reliable, local journalism you have come to expect. We are committed to serving you with renewed energy and growing resources. Let the Fauquier Times be your community companion throughout 2021, and for many years to come.
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Its been 50 years since the iconic 1971 Coca-Colas Hilltop commercial and in celebration of this moment, the legacy American brand has tied up with another heritage brand, Timex, to launch the Timex x Coca-Cola 1971 Unity Collection. A watershed moment in advertising history, Coca Colas Hilltop commercial became the rallying cry for unity, hope and harmony. In the face of divisive forces, the simple Id like to buy the world a coke proved to be an instant hit and showed the power of a brands ability to cut across cultural lines with a simple idea and a video with a message. To celebrate this iconic advertisement, Coca Cola is reimagining the Hilltop commercial for todays times.




Actor and politician Nusrat Jahan recently made her first public appearance after giving birth to a birth boy. At the event which was held in Kolkata, Nusrat was asked about the babys father. Nusrat married businessman Nikhil Jain in Turkey in 2019 but in June this year, she said that since their marriage was invalid under Indian laws, she was actually in a live-in relationship with Nikhil and not actually married to him. She has been dating fellow actor and politician Yash Dasgupta.

On being asked about her better half, Nusrat said: I think thats a vague question to ask and puts a black spot on somebodys character as a woman, who the father is. The father knows who the father is and we are having a great parenthood together at the moment. Myself and Yash, we are having a good time. The popular actress added that motherhood feels great and that her sons name is Yishaan. Its a new life, it feels like a new beginning, she added.

Nusrat gave birth to the baby at Bhagirathi Neotia Hospital in Kolkata and Yash was reportedly seen carrying the baby home in a car. It was Yash who had confirmed the news of the babys birth and said: For those who have been enquiring about Nusrats health, the mother and child are healthy and doing well.


Tiger Shroff and his love for action is known to all, but what we really love about this young action star is the fact that with each film, he sets a new bar for himself. Tiger Shroff is currently shooting for Heropanti 2 and according to reports in E Times, hes going to surprise the viewers once more.



According to reports in E Times, Tiger Shroff will shoot for some high-octane action sequences in London. The actor along with Tara Sutaria left for London a couple of weeks back to shoot for the film. Now we hear that the actor will shoot for an action sequence at Ipswich railway station. Apart from action sequences, the makers will also shoot for some love songs between Tiger and Tara. The film also stars Nawazzudin Siddiqui and the makers are looking for 2022 release.

Tara and Tiger have worked together in Student of The Year 2 (2019), it was Taras debut film. And surprisingly Heropanti was Tiger Shroffs debut film which is being turned into a franchise. Apart from Heropanti 2, Tiger even has Ganapath and the remake of Rambo in his hands. It is even said Baaghi will return with its fourth installment. On a personal front he has moved into a new house and has gifted it to his parents  Jackie and Ayesha Shroff.
- Global revenues of US$40b, up 7.3% in US dollars

- Growth across all Service Lines and geographic areas

- 20m lives positively impacted through EY Ripples

- Plans for investments of US$10b in FY22-FY24, focused on audit quality, strategy, technology and people

LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- EY today announces combined global revenues of US$40b for the financial year ended June 2021 (FY21), an increase of 7.3% in US dollars (4.0% in local currency), a solid result given the global economic impact caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past seven years, the global EY organization has recorded strong 7.3% compound annual growth in local currency. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an almost overnight shift to virtual working, significantly reducing the level of travel and hotel related expenses on client assignments.

EY also today announces a three-year expansion plan and a combined investment spend of US$10b between FY22 and FY24, which supports the EY NextWave strategy launched in FY20. These investments will further expand capabilities to help EY clients, the people who serve them, and the communities in which EY teams operate, to successfully navigate unprecedented global challenges.

Carmine Di Sibio, EY Global Chairman and CEO, says:

"EY people have worked hard to support clients and communities in FY21, delivering an outstanding set of results, through a challenging year. EY teams remain focused on the EY NextWave strategy, which is built on an ambition to build long-term value for all stakeholders.

"A record US$10b three-year investment plan in vital areas such as audit quality, strategy, and sustainability, will continue to help EY clients, EY people and communities innovate and transform. The world is changing fast and the EY organization is ideally placed to help stakeholders fulfil their need to succeed in a manner which is equitable and sustainable, and which respects the environment."

EY investments to support audit quality, transformation, technology and people

The US$10b investment plan is being made in people, technology and quality management systems to help further build trust in the capital markets by strengthening audit quality, supported by the implementation of technology-driven innovations in risk-based and other audit procedures, including the detection of fraud.

The plan includes $2.5b in technology investment over the next three years, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence (AI), trusted data fabric and disruptive technologies, as well as the wider EY ecosystem of strategic alliances. The plan will also see further buildout of the global client technology platform that underpins EY services and solutions. This platform is currently used by more than 1m EY clients and processes a volume of 250m transactions daily through the deployment of hybrid and multi-cloud capabilities across 200 countries. The EY organization will continue to attract technology and data specialists, which today exceed 44,000 technologists and 22,000 data professionals - including a neurodiverse engineering team. EY will accelerate the use of technology to embrace post-pandemic working while also accelerating technology-enabled transformation.

The market-leading EY Global Tax Platform and EY Canvas (audit platform), built natively on Microsoft Azure Cloud, are being boosted with enhanced AI capabilities and the technology behind EY Diligence Edge - an AI platform hosted on IBM Cloud.

Through leading edge technology solutions, EY teams have helped a number of life sciences companies improve their efficiency and effectiveness in providing critical medicines; from digitizing Pfizer's supply chain, to helping Johnson & Johnson deliver accelerated medical approval using AI, and to improving AstraZeneca's operational efficiency through intelligent automation. EY teams also advised TNB, Malaysia's national energy provider, on digitizing its customer experience channels and on its decarbonization agenda.

Expanding strategy consulting services

EY will expand strategy consulting (EY-Parthenon) and sustainability services, and invest to ensure that clients and EY people benefit from leading-class technology - all backed up by continued strategic acquisitions and the EY ecosystem of world-class alliances. The investment will also include supporting EY people to hone new skills and advance efforts to positively impact communities.

EY-Parthenon is the world's fifth largest strategy consulting organization today in terms of revenue, with more than 6,500 professionals and 750 partners of EY member firms across the globe. EY-Parthenon recorded revenue growth of 19.6% in FY21, with EY-Parthenon teams supporting clients across the world to successfully transform their businesses. The consulting organization will continue to expand into key markets and build out its portfolio of strategy services and solutions.

Recent strategy projects include working with the European Commission on its landmark Shift2Rail project and advising UK fashion retailer ASOS to identify opportunities to unlock value, making it more resilient and better-prepared for the future. In the US, EY professionals worked with Carrier, a supplier of hi-tech heating appliances, to provide strategic advice which led to supply chain improvements and the launch of a direct-to-consumer business.

Driving a value-led sustainability agenda

EY teams are developing new global sustainability solutions for EY clients. The solutions will be focused around value-led sustainability, helping EY clients capture the business opportunities from sustainability and decarbonization, while protecting and creating value. EY teams are also helping clients to integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure into their wider strategies.

Recent sustainability client engagements include supporting DPDHL on its decarbonization journey and working with NBN, Australia's broadband network, on developing a sustainability strategy.

EY will continue to build on its ecosystem of strategic alliances which were expanded in FY21. Nine new alliances were announced in FY21, expanding capabilities in industry solutions, digital, cybersecurity and supply chain, through agreements with Fadata, Nottingham Spirk, Tanium and CrowdStrike. Over the next year the EY organization will attribute US$5b of ecosystem-related revenues to sales with, and through, alliance partners, based on market leading EY technology offerings and platforms. This is expected to grow to US$10b annually over the next three years.

This three-year plan also includes significant investment in people, including a large increase in the partner cohort through hiring and internal promotion, aligned to key growth areas. EY will also continue to upgrade the skills of its 312,250 people through an expanded learning program.

Building a better working world

The EY organization has set the ambitious goal of positively impacting 1b lives by 2030 through the EY Ripples corporate responsibility program. More than 1m people will be mobilized globally through EY Ripples to drive long-term change by working with impact entrepreneurs, supporting the next generation and accelerating environmental sustainability. Since EY Ripples was established in 2018, more than 55m lives have been positively impacted, including 20m lives in FY21. In FY21, there were investments of a total of US$119m in projects dedicated to strengthening communities, and EY people contributed 837k hours of time to a variety of initiatives and value-in-kind projects.

EY professionals will shortly publish EY Value Realized, an integrated report featuring increased ESG disclosure aligned to the new World Economic Forum-International Business Council Stakeholder Capitalism Metrics, and overall progress on the global impact of the EY organization and the EY NextWave strategy.

Notes to editors

About EY

EY exists to build a better working world, helping create long-term value for clients, people and society and build trust in the capital markets.

Enabled by data and technology, diverse EY teams in over 150 countries provide trust through assurance and help clients grow, transform and operate.

Working across assurance, consulting, law, strategy, tax and transactions, EY teams ask better questions to find new answers for the complex issues facing our world today.

EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. Information about how EY collects and uses personal data and a description of the rights individuals have under data protection legislation are available via ey.com/privacy. EY member firms do not practice law where prohibited by local laws. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

This news release has been issued by EYGM Limited, a member of the global EY organization that also does not provide any services to clients.

B-roll footage

To watch EY Global Chairman and CEO Carmine Di Sibio discuss the EY FY21 results, please visit here. For broadcast quality, downloadable b-roll video, please contact alasdair.gee@uk.ey.com.

EY FY21 June YTD Global revenues and headcount

EY revenues by Service Line - US$ millions

FY21 FY20 % change in US$ % change in local currency FY21 v. FY20 FY21 v. FY20 7-year CAGR

(FY14 - FY21) Assurance 13,567 12,821 5.8% 2.5% 4.2% Tax 10,467 9,765 7.2% 3.9% 7.3% Consulting 11,135 10,467 6.4% 3.5% 9.6% Strategy and Transactions 4,790 4,181 14.6% 10.4% 12.9% Total 39,959 37,234 7.3% 4.0% 7.3% EY revenues by Geographic Area - US$ millions



FY21 FY20 % change in US$ % change in local currency FY21 v. FY20 FY21 v. FY20 7-year CAGR

(FY14 - FY21) Americas 17,662 17,187 2.8% 2.9% 7.1% EMEIA 15,655 14,210 10.2% 3.8% 6.8% Asia-Pacific 6,642 5,837 13.8% 8.1% 8.9% Total 39,959 37,234 7.3% 4.0% 7.3%















EY people by service line

FY21 FY20 FY21 v. FY20

% change

Assurance 100,891 99,239 1.7%

Tax 63,631 63,484 0.2%

Consulting 82,398 71,397 15.4%

Strategy and Transactions 20,086 19,072 5.3%

Practice support 45,244 45,773 (1.2%)

Total 312,250 298,965 4.4%

EY people by geographic area



FY21 FY20 FY21 v. FY20

% change

Americas 78,967 75,951 4.0%

EMEIA 121,325 117,306 3.4%

Asia-Pacific 58,953 58,960 0.0%

Global Entities 53,005 46,748 13.4%

Total 312,250 298,965 4.4%



Basis of presentation: Revenues are aggregated revenues of the individual EY member firms that have been combined for presentation purposes and include expenses billed to clients. For purposes of reporting combined global revenues, revenues between member firms have been eliminated. Headcount numbers reflect personnel as at the end of June of each financial year.

The Service Line information shown above is in the new EY structure (Advisory is now named Consulting, and Corporate Finance is named Strategy and Transactions). The total combined FY20 revenue and people data are the same as reported last year, the split by service line include a reclassification of $92m of revenue and 351 people from Consulting into Strategy and Transactions. This is to realign parts of the Strategy business so that FY21 is reported consistently with FY20.

Global Entities in the People Section represents Global services and functions including the Global Delivery Services (GDS) organization. GDS entities support EY member firms across the world by providing support capabilities to their client-serving account teams as well as internal enablement support services.

Sunny Tucker

EY Global Media Relations

+44 (0) 20 7197 7188

sunny.tucker@uk.ey.com

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Highlights

At Red Chris, drilling continues to expand the higher grade mineralisation intersected at East Ridge, with this new discovery adjacent to the East Zone continuing to return high grade intercepts, supporting the potential for resource growth. RC705 returned 254m @ 1.0g/t Au & 1.1% Cu from 718m, including 80m @ 1.6g/t Au & 1.4% Cu from 852m. This hole is located 100m above RC678 (previously reported) and demonstrates continuity over 300m vertically. As noted in Newcrest's June 2021 Quarterly Exploration Report, East Ridge is located outside of Newcrest's Red Chris initial Mineral Resource estimate. Mineralisation remains open to the east and at depth, with ongoing drilling to define the extent.

At Havieron, growth drilling continues to outline high grade mineralisation outside of the initial Inferred Mineral Resource estimate. HAD133W1 located in the South East Crescent, has returned 133m @ 7.0g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,446m, including 55.9m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.04% Cu from 1,449.5m, ~250m below the initial Inferred Mineral Resource estimate. Higher grade zones in the Northern Breccia to the north west of the initial Inferred Mineral Resource estimate were confirmed, with HAD140 returning 29.1m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.29% Cu from 813.2m and HAD141 returning 87m @ 1.8g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,328m including 17.8m @ 5.7g/t Au & 0.14% Cu from 1,378.5m.



Melbourne, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 8, 2021) - Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) (TSX: NCM) Newcrest Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sandeep Biswas, said, "We are excited by our continued exploration success at Red Chris and Havieron, with our extensive growth drilling programs delivering a number of new high grade intercepts in the period. At Red Chris, results from our new East Ridge discovery demonstrate the continuity of mineralisation along strike and at Havieron we intersected several new high grade intercepts outside of the initial Inferred Mineral Resource estimate, including HAD133W1 which returned 133m @ 7.0g/t Au. These results continue to support the potential for resource growth outside of the existing resource shells."

Red Chris - Significant results since the June 2021 Quarterly Exploration Report(1):

RC705 254m @ 1.0g/t Au & 1.1% Cu from 718m including 182m @ 1.3g/t Au & 1.3% Cu from 764m including 80m @ 1.6g/t Au & 1.4% Cu from 852m

RC709 166m @ 0.4g/t Au & 0.49% Cu from 788m including 54m @ 0.89g/t Au & 0.96% Cu from 894m including 30m @ 1.1g/t Au & 1.1% Cu from 902m

RC718 298m @ 0.33g/t Au & 0.45% Cu from 820m including 52m @ 0.67g/t Au & 0.75% Cu from 1,062m



Havieron - Significant growth drilling results since the June 2021 Quarterly Exploration Report(2):

HAD133W1 133m @ 7.0g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,446m including 55.9m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.04% Cu from 1,449.5m

HAD057W7 23m @ 5.7g/t Au & 0.70% Cu from 613m including 15m @ 8.6g/t Au & 0.96% Cu from 613m 70m @ 2.2g/t Au & 0.03% Cu from 906m including 12.8m @ 5.3 g/t Au & 0.02% Cu from 962.7m

HAD140 29.1m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.29% Cu from 813.2m

HAD141 87m @ 1.8g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,328m including 17.8m @ 5.7g/t Au & 0.14% Cu from 1,378.5m



Red Chris, British Columbia, Canada(2)

Red Chris is a joint venture operated by Newcrest and in which Newcrest has a 70% interest.

The Brownfields Exploration program is focused on the discovery of additional zones of higher grade mineralisation within the Red Chris porphyry corridor, including targets outside of Newcrest's initial Mineral Resource estimate. During the period, there were up to eight diamond drill rigs in operation. A further 14,490m of drilling has been completed from 18 drill holes, with all drill holes intersecting mineralisation (except eleven which were dedicated geotechnical holes). This contributed to a total of 181,176m of drilling from 155 drill holes since Newcrest acquired its interest in the joint venture in August 2019.

At East Ridge, located adjacent to the East Zone, drilling is ongoing with 14 holes completed and six in progress. The follow up drilling is being completed on a nominal 100m x 100m grid to determine the footprint of the mineralisation and demonstrate the continuity of the higher grade mineralisation.

Results for the reporting period include:

RC705 (drilled 100m above of RC678 previously reported) returned 254m @ 1.0g/t Au & 1.1% Cu from 718m, including 80m @ 1.6g/t Au & 1.4% Cu from 852m.

RC708 (drilled 100m above of RC700 previously reported) returned 232m @ 0.16g/t Au & 0.26% Cu from 754m.

RC709 (drilled 100m west of RC678) returned 166m @ 0.4g/t Au & 0.49% Cu from 788m, including 30m @ 1.1g/t Au & 1.1% Cu from 902m.

RC713 (drilled 100m above RC705) returned 190m @ 0.26g/t Au & 0.41% Cu from 574m, including 28m @ 0.57g/t Au & 0.74% Cu from 712m, and

RC718 (drilled 100m east of RC700 previously reported) returned 298m @ 0.33g/t Au & 0.45% Cu from 820m, including 52m @ 0.67g/t Au & 0.75% Cu from 1,062m.

Drilling to date has demonstrated continuity of the East Ridge zone (>1g/t AuEq) over dimensions of 400m high, 400m long and 125m wide, with the higher grade (>2g/t AuEq) over 300m high, 300m long and 100m wide.

East Ridge is located 300m east of East Zone and is outside of Newcrest's initial Mineral Resource estimate, supporting the potential for resource growth over time. Mineralisation is open to the east and at depth and extends the eastern side of the porphyry corridor as shown in Figures 1 and 2. Follow-up drilling is in progress to further define the extent and continuity of this high grade mineralisation.

A step out hole, RC701 drilled 700m east of East Ridge has extended the porphyry corridor beyond the limit of the East Ridge drilling. This hole returned 206m @ 0.2g/t Au & 0.49% Cu from 1,816m. The intercept is one of the deepest on the property. Drilling is planned for the zone between East Ridge and RC701 to search for additional high grade zones.

Approximately 50,000m of growth-related drilling is planned this calendar year from eight drill rigs.

Refer to Appendix 1 for additional information, and the Drillhole data table for all results reported during the period.





Figure 1. Schematic plan view map of the Red Chris porphyry corridor spanning East Ridge, East Zone, Main Zone and Gully Zone showing drill hole locations (Newcrest & Imperial) and significant Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases). 0.5g/t Au, 1g/t Au, 1 g/t AuEq and 2g/t AuEq shell projections generated from a Leapfrog model. Gold equivalent (AuEq) grade calculated using a copper conversion factor of 1.67 ([gold grade (g/t)] + [copper grade (%) x 1.67]), using US$1,400/oz Au, US$3.40/lb Cu and 100% recovery. It is the Company's opinion that all elements included in this metal equivalents calculation have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_003full.jpg





Figure 2. Long section view of the Red Chris porphyry corridor showing drill hole locations and gold distribution.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_004full.jpg





Figure 3. Oblique schematic section view of the Red Chris porphyry corridor showing gold distribution. 0.5 g/t Au, 1 g/t Au ,1g/t AuEq and 2g/t AuEq shell projections generated from the LeapfrogTM model. Gold equivalent (AuEq) grade calculated using a copper conversion factor ([gold grade (g/t)] + [copper grade (%) x 1.67]) using US$1,400/oz Au, US$3.40/lb Cu, and 100% recovery. It is the Company's opinion that all elements included in this metal equivalents calculation have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_005full.jpg

Havieron Project, Western Australia(3)

The Havieron Project is operated by Newcrest under a Joint Venture Agreement with Greatland Gold. As announced on 30 November 2020, Newcrest has now met the Stage 3 expenditure requirement (US$45 million) and is entitled to earn an additional 20% joint venture interest, resulting in an overall joint venture interest of 60% (Greatland Gold 40%). Newcrest can earn up to a 70% joint venture interest through total expenditure of US$65 million and the completion of a series of exploration and development milestones (including the delivery of a Pre-Feasibility Study) in a four-stage farm-in over a six year period that commenced in May 2019. Newcrest may acquire an additional 5% interest at the end of the farm-in period at fair market value. The Joint Venture Agreement includes tolling principles reflecting the intention of the parties that, subject to a successful exploration program, Feasibility Study and a positive decision to mine, the resulting joint venture mineralised material will be processed at Telfer.

The Havieron Project is centred on a deep magnetic anomaly located 45km east of Telfer in the Paterson Province. The deposit is overlain by more than 420m of post mineral Permian cover. A further 10,375m of drilling has been completed from 18 drill holes, all awaiting assays. Results from 12 holes completed in the June 2021 quarter have been received, with eight holes returning significant assay intercepts in excess of 50 gram metres Au (Au ppm x length m). A total of 194,456m of drilling from 230 drill holes has been completed since Newcrest commenced exploration activity (excluding holes in progress, abandoned holes, or drill holes which have not been sampled).

Drilling in the reporting period was focused on potential resource growth at the South East Crescent, Northern Breccia and Eastern Breccia, and infill drilling the South East Crescent Zone to support the potential conversion of the Inferred Resource to Indicated. Drilling completed included:

South East Crescent Zone Growth - assay results reported for two drill holes, one new drill hole completed, awaiting assays.

South East Crescent Zone Infill - 10 new drill holes completed, awaiting assays.

Northern Breccia - assay results reported for eight drill holes, four new drill holes completed, awaiting assays.

Eastern Breccia - assay results reported for two drill holes, three new drill holes completed, awaiting assays.

At the South East Crescent, drilling targeting higher grade mineralisation at depth was conducted during the reporting period. Drilling is being conducted on 75m x 75m spacing and has been extended to 250m below the initial Inferred Mineral Resource extents. Results from two drill holes have been received, with significant results returned from HAD133W1.

Results include:

HAD133W1 133m @ 7.0g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,446m including 55.9m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.04% Cu from 1,449.5m including 20m @ 11g/t Au & 0.04% Cu from 1,519m



HAD133W1 has extended the high-grade mineralisation ~250m below the base of the Inferred Mineral Resource estimate. This intercept is ~150m below previously reported hole HAD133^^ (85m @ 11g/t Au & 0.29% Cu from 1,345m including 13m @ 32g/t Au & 0.46% Cu from 1,363m and including 14.5m @ 32g/t Au & 0.33% Cu from 1,396.5m). Assay results from one further hole HAD086W2 is pending. Drilling to assess the extent of the mineralisation below the South East Crescent Inferred Resource is ongoing.

HAD057W7 drilled to test lower target positions in the Northern Breccia also traversed the South East Crescent Zone within the initial Inferred Mineral Resource footprint. Results from this hole demonstrates good alignment with modelled grade and thickness within the South East Crescent zone, and supports the geological model including continuity of high grade.

Results include:

HAD057W7 23m @ 5.7g/t Au & 0.70% Cu from 613m including 15m @ 8.6g/t Au & 0.96% Cu from 613m 70m @ 2.2g/t Au & 0.03% Cu from 906m Including 12.8m @ 5.3g/t Au & 0.02% Cu from 962.7m



A further 10 infill holes within the South East Crescent zone were completed, all awaiting assays. This drilling is designed to infill the South East Crescent Inferred Resource volume to 50m x 50m spacing to support the potential upgrade of a significant portion of the Inferred Resource to Indicated.

At the Northern Breccia, results from eight drill holes were returned and a further four new drillholes were completed (currently awaiting assays). The focus of the drilling in this zone is to expand the mineralisation and support potential resource growth. The latest drilling (75m x 75m) has extended the mineralised breccia footprint around the Inferred Mineral Resource extents with reported drill holes supporting extensions to breccia mineralisation. Drilling has confirmed and increased the continuity of mineralisation as a north-west mineralised corridor which has been identified up to 300m in length, and 100m wide, between 4300 - 4100mRL and remains open at depth. Higher grade mineralisation has been identified internal to the mineralised breccia corridor. The results include:

Results include:

HAD089W3 106.8m @ 0.96g/t Au & 0.12% Cu from 911.2m including 15m @ 2.8g/t Au & 0.21% Cu from 978m

HAD099W2 126.7m @ 0.66g/t Au & 0.07% Cu from 643.3m including 12.1m @ 1.3g/t Au & 0.12% Cu from 647.1m

HAD138W1 157.4m @ 0.93g/t Au & 0.21% Cu from 937.6m including 16.1m @ 5.9g/t Au & 0.12% Cu from 1,043m

HAD140 29.1m @ 9.7g/t Au & 0.29% Cu from 813.2m

HAD141 87m @ 1.8g/t Au & 0.05% Cu from 1,328m including 17.8m @ 5.7g/t Au & 0.14% Cu from 1,378.5m



At the Eastern Breccia two holes have returned assays (HAD084W1 and HAD141) with results from three drill holes pending. Drilling has targeted along strike from prior reported drill holes HAD083 and HAD084, over a strike length of approximately 600m. HAD141 has returned a mineralised intercept ~200m to the north west of HAD084. Drill testing and interpretation of the geological and mineralisation controls of the Eastern Breccia Zone is ongoing.

Results include:

HAD141 23m @ 1.7g/t Au & 0.01% Cu from 1,875m



Eight drill rigs are currently operational, including testing extensions of the South East Crescent Zone below 4,200mRL, extension and definition of the Northern Breccia and associated internal higher-grade zones to support potential expansion of the existing Inferred Mineral Resource. Additionally, infill drilling is being completed within the Inferred Mineral Resource limits to support ongoing mining studies.

Refer to Appendix 2 for additional information and Drillhole data table for all results reported during the period.





Figure 4. 3D Plan view schematic showing the spatial association of the South East Crescent, Northern Breccia and Eastern Breccia targets.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_006full.jpg





Figure 5. 3D section view schematic across section line A on Figure 3, highlighting selected South East Crescent growth intercepts below the current Inferred Resource.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 5, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_007full.jpg





Figure 6. Plan view schematic of a horizontal slice at 4300mRL through the Crescent Sulphide Zone and Breccia-hosted Zones, showing the extents of the 0.5 and 1.0 g/t Au LeapfrogTM grade shells with highlighted newly reported intercepts for this period. Also shown is the Eastern Breccia mineralisation outline projected to the 4300mRL section-drilling is ongoing to confirm the extent of these zones. This diagram highlights >50gram metres intersections drilled during the quarter, refer to inset diagram for relationship to all Havieron drilling.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 6, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_008full.jpg

Wilki Project, Western Australia

The Wilki Project covers a strategic landholding of ~2,200km2 surrounding the Telfer operation and is adjacent to the Havieron Project. Newcrest entered into this exploration farm-in and joint venture agreement with Antipa Minerals Limited on 11 March 2020.

During the period, scout reverse circulation drill testing was completed at Tyama, WEM04, Protos9, Pajero and Triangle North targets. Assay results are pending.

This completes the initial Stage 1 drill program with a total of 5,137m of drilling completed. Additional work programs are being planned for the remaining field season.

Juri Joint Venture, Western Australia

On 30 November 2020, Newcrest announced its entry into the Juri Joint Venture. Juri is a farm-in and joint venture agreement with Greatland Gold with respect to its Black Hills and Paterson Range East projects, located within the Paterson Province approximately 50km from the Telfer operation. The joint venture covers an area of approximately 248km2.

Under the terms of the agreement, Newcrest has been granted an initial 25% joint venture interest with the potential to earn up to a 75% joint venture interest through total expenditure of A$20 million over a two stage earn-in, across a five year period. Greatland Gold will manage the Juri Joint Venture until the end of calendar year 2021, after which Newcrest has the right to be appointed as Manager.

Newcrest is currently assessing the assay results for the initial scout drill holes at Goliath, Outamind and Los Diablos targets in Paterson Range East. Initial drilling has also been completed at the Parlay and Saddle targets within the Black Hills Project. A total of 3,856m of drilling has now been completed this field season on the Juri JV.

Tennant East, Northern Territory

Work programs continue at the Tennant East project (located 300km east of Tennant Creek) with gravity surveys over the initial two target areas now completed. Follow up IP (induced polarisation) surveys will commence in September 2021 followed by scout drill testing in October 2021.

Nevada, USA

Drill activities have commenced at the Jarbidge project in north-eastern Nevada.

GJ Project, British Columbia, Canada

At the GJ Project, which is part of the Red Chris joint venture that is Newcrest operated and 70% owned, Newcrest is planning to test the depth potential of the Donnelly Zone which is part of a 10km porphyry corridor (Groat Stock). An initial program of two holes for 2,500m originally planned to commence in the September 2021 quarter has been rescheduled to the June 2022 quarter.

Appendix 1



Red Chris (70% Newcrest): JORC Table 1

Section 1: Sampling Techniques and Data

Criteria Commentary Sampling techniques Core samples are obtained from core drilling. HQ and NQ diameter diamond core was drilled on a 3, 4.5m or 6m run. Core was cut using an automatic core-cutter and half core sampled at 2m intervals. Cover sequences were not sampled. Drilling techniques Core drilling was advanced with HQ3, HQ, NQ3 and NQ diameter coring configuration.



Core from inclined drill holes are oriented on 3, 4.5m or 6m runs using an electronic core orientation tool (Reflex ACTIII). At the end of each run, the bottom of hole position is marked by the driller, which is later transferred to the whole drill core run length with a bottom of hole reference line. Drill sample recovery Core recovery is systematically recorded from the commencement of coring to end of hole, by reconciling against driller's depth blocks in each core tray with data recorded in the database. Drillers depth blocks provided the depth, interval of core recovered, and interval of core drilled.



Core recoveries were typically 100%, with isolated zones of lower recovery. Logging Geological logging recorded qualitative descriptions of lithology, alteration, mineralisation, veining, and structure (for all core drilled - 14,490m in 18 holes- all holes intersected mineralisation except for 12 dedicated geotechnical holes, including orientation of key geological features.



Geotechnical measurements were recorded including Rock Quality Designation (RQD) fracture frequency, solid core recovery and qualitative rock strength measurements.



Magnetic susceptibility measurements were recorded every metre.



All geological and geotechnical logging was conducted at the Red Chris Mine.



Digital data logging was captured, validated and stored in an acQuire database.



All drill cores were photographed, prior to cutting and/or sampling the core. Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation Sampling, sample preparation and quality control protocols are considered appropriate for the material being sampled.



Core was cut and sampled at the Red Chris Mine core processing facility. Half core samples were collected in plastic bags together with pre-numbered sample tags and grouped in wood crates for dispatch to the laboratory. Sample weights typically varied from 5 to 10kg. Sample sizes are considered appropriate for the style of mineralisation. Drill core samples were freighted by road to the laboratory.



Sample preparation was conducted at the independent ISO 9001 certified and ISO 17025 accredited Bureau Veritas Commodities Canada Ltd Laboratory, Vancouver (Bureau Veritas). Samples were dried at 650C, and crushed to

95% passing 4.75 mm, and the split to obtain up to 1kg sub-sample, which was pulverised (using LM2) to produce a pulped product with the minimum standard of 95% passing 106m.



Duplicate samples were collected from crush and pulp samples at a rate of 1:20. Duplicate results show an acceptable level of variability for the material sampled and style of mineralisation.



Periodic size checks (1:20) for crush and pulp samples and sample weights are provided by the laboratory and recorded in the acQuire database. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests Assaying of drill core samples was conducted at Bureau Veritas. All samples were assayed for 59 elements using a

4-acid digestion followed by ICP-AES/ICP-MS determination (method MA250). Gold analyses were determined by 50g fire assay with ICP-ES finish (method FA350). Carbon and Sulphur were determined by Leco (method TC000) and mercury using aqua regia digestion followed by ICP-ES/MS determination (method AQ200).



Sampling and assaying quality control procedures consisted of inclusion of certified reference material (CRMs), coarse residue and pulp duplicates with each batch (at least 1:20).



Assays of quality control samples were compared with reference samples in the acQuire database and verified as acceptable prior to use of data from analysed batches.



Laboratory quality control data, including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats and grind size results are captured in acQuire database and assessed for accuracy and precision for recent data.



Due to the limited extent of the drilling program to date, extended quality control programs are yet to be undertaken, whereby pulped samples will be submitted to an umpire laboratory and combined with more extensive re-submission programs.



Analysis of the available quality control sample assay results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and precision has been achieved and the database contains no analytical data that has been numerically manipulated.



The assaying techniques and quality control protocols used are considered appropriate for the data to be used for reporting exploration drilling results. Verification of sampling and assaying Sampling intervals defined by the geologist are electronically assigned sample identification numbers prior to core cutting. Corresponding sample numbers matching pre-labelled sample tags are assigned to each interval.



All sampling and assay information were stored in a secure acQuire database with restricted access.



Electronically generated sample submission forms providing the sample identification number accompany each submission to the laboratory. Assay results from the laboratory with corresponding sample identification are loaded directly into the acQuire database.



Assessment of reported significant assay intervals was verified by re-logging of drill core intervals and assessment of high resolution core photography. The verification of significant intersections has been completed by company personnel and the Competent Person/Qualified Person.



No adjustments are made to assay data, and no twinned holes have been completed. Drilling intersects mineralisation at various angles.



There are no currently known drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data. Location of data points Drill collar locations were surveyed using a RTK GPS with GNSS with a stated accuracy of +/- 0.025m.



Drill rig alignment was attained using an electronic azimuth aligner (Reflex TN14 GYROCOMPASS). Downhole survey was collected at 9 to 30m intervals of the drill hole using single shot survey (Reflex EZ-SHOT). At the end of hole, all holes have been surveyed using a continuous gyro survey to surface (Reflex EZ-GYRO).



Topographic control is established from PhotoSat topographic data and derived digital elevation model. The topography is generally low relief to flat, with an average elevation of 1500 m, with several deep creek gullies.



All collar coordinates are provided in the North American Datum (NAD83 Zone 9). Data spacing and distribution The drill hole spacing ranges from 100 - 200m in lateral extent within an area of 1.5km2 at the East Ridge, 1.5km2 at the East Zone, 1.5km2 at the Main Zone and 1.5km2 at the Gully Zone.



No sample compositing is applied to samples. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Drilling of reported drill holes RC701, RC705, RC708, RC709, RC713 and RC718 are oriented perpendicular to the intrusive complex. The intrusive complex has an east-northeast orientation, with drilling established on a north-northwest orientation.



Drill holes exploring the extents of the East Ridge, East Zone, Main Zone and Gully Zone mineral system intersected moderately dipping volcanic and sedimentary units cut by sub-vertical intrusive lithologies. Steeply dipping mineralised zones with an east-northeast orientation have been interpreted from historic and Newcrest drill holes. Sample security The security of samples is controlled by tracking samples from drill rig to database.



Drill core was delivered from the drill rig to the Red Chris Mine core yard every shift. Geological and geotechnical logging, high resolution core photography and cutting of drill core was undertaken at the Red Chris core processing facility.



Samples were freighted in sealed bags with security tags by road to the laboratory, and in the custody of Newcrest representatives.



Sample numbers are generated from pre-labelled sample tags. All samples are collected in pre-numbered plastic bags. Sample tags are inserted into prenumbered plastic bags together with the sample.



Verification of sample numbers and identification is conducted by the laboratory on receipt of samples, and sample receipt advice issued to Newcrest.



Details of all sample movement are recorded in a database table. Dates, Hole ID sample ranges, and the analytical suite requested are recorded with the dispatch of samples to the laboratory analytical services. Any discrepancies logged at the receipt of samples into the laboratory analytical services are validated. Audits or reviews Due to the limited duration of the program, no external audits or reviews have been undertaken.



Internal verification and audit of Newcrest exploration procedures and databases are periodically undertaken.

Section 2: Reporting of Exploration Results

Criteria Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status Red Chris comprises 77 mineral tenures including five mining leases and is a joint venture between subsidiaries of Newcrest Mining Limited (70%) and Imperial Metals Corporation (30%). Newcrest Red Chris Mining Limited is the operator of Red Chris.



Newcrest Red Chris Mining Limited and the Tahltan Nation (as represented by the Tahltan Central Government, the Tahltan Band and Iskut First Nation) signed an updated Impact, Benefit and Co-Management Agreement (IBCA) covering Red Chris on 15 August 2019.



All obligations with respect to legislative requirements including minimum expenditure are maintained in good standing. Exploration done by other parties Conwest Exploration Limited, Great Plains Development Co. of Canada, Silver Standard Mines Ltd, Texasgulf Canada Ltd. (formerly Ecstall Mining Limited), American Bullion Minerals Ltd and bcMetals Corporation conducted exploration in the areas between 1956 and 2006.



Imperial Metals Corporation acquired the project in 2007 and completed deeper drilling at the East and Main Zones between 2007 and 2012. Geology The Red Chris Project is located in the Stikine terrane of north-western British Columbia, 80 km south of the town of Dease Lake.



Late Triassic sedimentary and volcanic rocks of the Stuhini Group host a series of Late Triassic to Early Jurassic 204-198 Ma) diorite to quartz monzonite stocks and dykes.



Gold and copper mineralisation at Red Chris consists of vein, disseminated and breccia sulphide typical of porphyry-style mineralisation. Mineralisation is hosted by diorite to quartz monzonite stocks and dykes. The main mineral assemblage contains well developed pyrite-chalcopyrite-bornite sulphide mineral assemblages as vein and breccia infill, and disseminations. The main mineralisation event is associated with biotite and potassium feldspar-magnetite wall rock alteration. Drill hole information As provided. Data aggregation methods Significant assay intercepts are reported as (A) length-weighted averages exceeding 0.1g/t Au greater than or equal to 20m, with less than 10m of consecutive internal dilution; and (B) length-weighted averages exceeding 0.5g/t Au for greater than or equal to 10m, with less than 10m of consecutive internal dilution; and (C) length-weighted averages exceeding 1g/t Au for greater than or equal to 10m, with less than 10m of consecutive internal dilution; (D) length-weighted averages exceeding 5g/t Au greater than or equal to 10m, with less than 10m of consecutive internal dilution; and (E) length-weighted averages exceeding 10g/t Au for greater than or equal to 10m, with less than 10m of consecutive internal dilution. No top cuts are applied to intercept calculations. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths Significant assay intervals reported represent apparent widths. Insufficient geological information is available to confirm the geological model and true width of significant assay intervals. Diagrams As provided. Balanced reporting This is the fourteenth release of Exploration Results for this project made by Newcrest. Previous release dates are

30 January 2020, 11 March 2020, 30 April 2020, 11 June 2020, 23 July 2020, 10 September 2020, 29 October 2020, 10 December 2020, 28 January 2021, 11 March 2021, 29 April 2021, 10 June 2021, and 22 July 2021.



Earlier reporting of exploration programs conducted by Newcrest and Imperial Metals Corporation have previously been reported. Exploration drilling programs are ongoing and further material results will be reported in subsequent Newcrest releases. Other substantive exploration data Nil. Further work Further drilling is planned to define the extents of the East Ridge, East Zone and Main Zone.

Drillhole data(1)

Red Chris Project, British Columbia, Canada

Reporting Criteria: Intercepts reported are downhole drill width (not true width) Au >0.1ppm (0.1g/t Au) and minimum 20m downhole width with maximum consecutive internal dilution of 10m. Also highlighted are high grade intervals of Au >0.5ppm (0.5g/t Au), Au >1ppm (1g/t Au), Au > 5ppm (5g/t Au), Au >10ppm (10g/t Au) and minimum 10m downhole width with maximum consecutive internal dilution of 10m. Gold grades are reported to two significant figures. Samples are from core drilling which is HQ or NQ in diameter. Core is photographed and logged by the geology team before being cut. Half core HQ and NQ samples are prepared for assay and the remaining material is retained in the core farm for future reference. Each assay batch is submitted with duplicates and standards to monitor laboratory quality. Total depth (end of hole) is rounded to one decimal place for reporting purposes.

Hole ID Hole

Type Easting

(m) Northing

(m) RL

(m) Total

Depth

(m) Azimuth



(GRID)

Dip From

(m) To

(m) Interval

(m) Au

(ppm) Cu

(pct) Cut

off RC701 DD 453530 6397490 1469 2137.4 145 -45 1140 1162 22 0.17 0.02 0.1















1190 1242 52 0.29 0.04 0.1













incl. 1194 1206 12 0.53 0.06 0.5















1704 1754 50 0.23 0.53 0.1















1816 2022 206 0.20 0.49 0.1 RC705 DD 453310 6396503 1425 1264.3 147 -59 316 350 34 0.14 0.01 0.1















364 434 70 0.12 0.02 0.1















718 972 254 1.0 1.1 0.1













incl. 764 946 182 1.3 1.3 0.5













incl. 782 840 58 1.5 1.6 1













incl. 852 932 80 1.6 1.4 1 RC706 DD 454518 6397466 1343 1523 148 -45 Assays Pending RC708 DD 453483 6396405 1417 1208 145 -62 364 384 20 0.10 0.13 0.1















612 640 28 0.12 0.23 0.1















652 734 82 0.21 0.36 0.1















754 986 232 0.16 0.26 0.1 RC709 DD 453184 6396558 1430 1383.2 149 -58 704 774 70 0.13 0.27 0.1















788 954 166 0.40 0.49 0.1













incl. 894 948 54 0.89 0.96 0.5













incl. 902 932 30 1.1 1.1 1















972 1064 92 0.16 0.26 0.1















1358 1382 24 0.24 0.1 0.1 RC713 DD 453381 6396452 1425 1103.6 153 -56 408 438 30 0.20 0.23 0.1















574 764 190 0.26 0.41 0.1













incl. 712 740 28 0.57 0.74 0.5 RC718 DD 453485 6396610 1403 1432 145 -58 820 1118 298 0.33 0.45 0.1













incl. 1012 1024 12 0.97 0.44 0.5













incl. 1062 1114 52 0.67 0.75 0.5















1166 1210 44 0.28 0.46 0.1 RC719 DD 453207 6396504 1431 1716.8 148 -56 Assays Pending RC726 DD 454725 6397172 1244 600 291 -9 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC727# DD 453316 6396752 1448 1565.7 147 -58 Assays Pending RC728 DD 452434 6396600 1460 1284.2 150 -49 Development Hole RC728W DD 452434 6396600 1460 1181 150 -49 Development Hole RC729 DD 452504 6396348 1495 1300.8 150 -54 Development Hole RC730 DD 452646 6396369 1488 990.2 148 -57 Development Hole RC731 DD 454216 6398337 1483 60 310 -50 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC732 DD 453931 6397964 1472 90 360 -45 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC733 DD 453919 6397851 1476 120 310 -50 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC734 DD 453890 6397715 1476 150 310 -45 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC735# DD 453568 6396656 1392 1501.8 147 -58 Assays Pending RC736 DD 454519 6397469 1341 602.2 134 -63 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC737# DD 454297 6397638 1426 1395.1 169 -50 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC738 DD 451579 6395919 1540 302.5 360 -90 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC739# DD 453383 6396811 1451 1258.7 146 -57 Assays Pending RC740# DD 453407 6397178 1465 900 146 -45 Assays Pending RC741 DD 451671 6395160 1540 302.6 360 -90 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC742# DD 453422 6396359 1426 637 151 -56 Assays Pending RC743 DD 452332 6395641 1437 452.7 242 -90 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC744# DD 452126 6396252 1520 353.3 162 -66 Geotechnical Hole - Not Sampled RC745# DD 453624 6396544 1403 170.3 145 -60 Assays Pending

#drilling in progress. **partial intercept, assays pending. ^updated intercept ^^previously reported intercept





Figure 7. Schematic plan view map of the East Ridge showing drill hole locations (Newcrest & Imperial) and significant Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases). 0.5 g/t Au, 1 g/t Au,1 g/t AuEq and 2 g/t AuEq shell projections generated from a Leapfrog model and sliced at 800mRL. Gold equivalent (AuEq) grade calculated using a copper conversion factor of 1.67 ([gold grade (g/t)] + [copper grade (%) x 1.67]), using US$1,400/oz Au, US$3.40/lb Cu and 100% recovery. It is the Company's opinion that all elements included in this metal equivalents calculation have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 7, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_009full.jpg





Figure 8. Schematic cross section of RC709 and RC719 (Section Line 33N) showing Newcrest and Imperial drill holes and Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases) 0.5 g/t Au, 1 g/t Au and 2 g/t Au shell projections generated from Leapfrog model. Due to window size (+/- 50m) and section orientation (150) hole may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 8, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_010full.jpg





Figure 9. Schematic cross section of RC705, RC713 and RC742 (Section Line 34N) showing Newcrest and Imperial drill holes and Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases) 0.5 g/t Au, 1 g/t Au and 2 g/t Au shell projections generated from Leapfrog model. Due to window size (+/- 50m) and section orientation (150) hole may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 9, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_011full.jpg





Figure 10. Schematic cross section of RC708 and RC727 (Section Line 35N) showing Newcrest and Imperial drill holes and Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases) 0.5 g/t AuEq, 1 g/t AuEq and 2 g/t AuEq shell projections generated from Leapfrog model. Due to window size (+/- 50m) and section orientation (150) hole may appear on multiple sections. It is the Company's opinion that all elements included in this metal equivalents calculation have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 10, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_012full.jpg





Figure 11. Schematic cross section of RC718 and RC739 (Section Line 36N) showing Newcrest and Imperial drill holes and Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases) 0.5 g/t AuEq, 1 g/t AuEq and 2 g/t AuEq shell projections generated from Leapfrog model. Due to window size (+/- 50m) and section orientation (150) hole may appear on multiple sections. It is the Company's opinion that all elements included in this metal equivalents calculation have a reasonable potential to be recovered and sold.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 11, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_013full.jpg





Figure 12. Schematic cross section of RC701 (Section Line 40/41N) showing Newcrest and Imperial drill holes and Newcrest intercepts (drill intercepts have been reported in Appendix 1 of this report, and in prior Newcrest exploration releases) 0.5 g/t Au, 1 g/t Au and 2 g/t Au shell projections generated from Leapfrog model. Due to window size (+/- 100m) and section orientation (150) hole may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 12, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_014full.jpg

Appendix 2

Havieron Project (Greatland Gold Plc - Joint Venture Agreement): JORC Table 1

Section 1: Sampling Techniques and Data

Criteria Commentary Sampling techniques Core samples are obtained from core drilling in Proterozoic basement lithologies. PQ-HQ and NQ diameter core was drilled on a 6m run. Core was cut using an automated core-cutter and half core sampled at 1m intervals with breaks for major geological changes. Sampling intervals range from 0.2 - 1.0m. Cover sequences were not sampled. Drilling techniques Permian Paterson Formation cover sequence was drilled using mud rotary drilling. Depths of cover typically observed to approximately 420m vertically below surface. Steel casing was emplaced to secure the pre-collar.



Core drilling was advanced from the base of the cover sequence with PQ3, HQ3 and NQ2 diameter coring configuration.



Core from inclined drill holes are oriented on 3m and 6m runs using an electronic core orientation tool (Reflex ACTIII). At the end of each run, the bottom of hole position is marked by the driller, which is later transferred to the whole drill core run length with a bottom of hole reference line. Drill sample recovery Core recovery is systematically recorded from the commencement of coring to end of hole, by reconciling against driller's depth blocks in each core tray with data recorded in the database. Drillers depth blocks provided the depth, interval of core recovered, and interval of core drilled.



Core recoveries were typically 100%, with isolated zones of lower recovery.



Cover sequence drilling by the mud-rotary drilling did not yield recoverable samples. Logging Geological logging recorded qualitative descriptions of lithology, alteration, mineralisation, veining, and structure (for all core drilled - 10,375m for 18 drill holes, all intersecting mineralisation), including orientation of key geological features.



Geotechnical measurements were recorded including Rock Quality Designation (RQD) fracture frequency, solid core recovery and qualitative rock strength measurements.



Magnetic susceptibility measurements were recorded every metre. The bulk density of selected drill core intervals was determined at site on whole core samples.



All geological and geotechnical logging was conducted at the Havieron site.



Digital data logging was captured on diamond drill core intervals only, and all data validated and stored in an acQuire database.



All drill cores were photographed, prior to cutting and/or sampling the core.



The logging is of sufficient quality to support Mineral Resource estimates. Sub-sampling techniques and sample preparation Sampling, sample preparation and quality control protocols are considered appropriate for the material being sampled.



Core was cut and sampled at the Havieron core processing facility. Half core samples of between 0.2 and 2.0 m were collected in pre-numbered calico bags and grouped in plastic bags for dispatch to the laboratory. Sample weights typically varied from 0.5 to 8kg. Sample sizes are considered appropriate for the style of mineralisation. Drill core samples were freighted by air and road to the laboratory.



Sample preparation was conducted at the independent ISO17025 accredited Intertek Laboratory, Perth (Intertek). Samples were dried at 105oC, and crushed to 95% passing 4.75mm, and the split to obtain up to 3kg sub-sample, which was pulverised (using LM5) to produce a pulped product with the minimum standard of 95% passing 106m. Routine grind size analysis is conducted.



Duplicate samples were collected from crush and pulp samples at a rate of 1:20. Duplicate results show an acceptable level of variability for the material sampled and style of mineralisation.



Periodic size checks (1:20) for crush and pulp samples and sample weights are provided by the laboratory and recorded in the acQuire database. Quality of assay data and laboratory tests Assaying of drill core samples was conducted at Intertek. All samples were assayed for 48 elements using a 4-acid digestion followed by ICP-AES/ICP-MS determination (method 4A/MS907), which is considered to provide a total assay for copper. Gold analyses were determined by 50g fire assay with AAS finish (method FA50N/AA), which is considered to provide a total assay for gold.



Sampling and assaying quality control procedures consisted of inclusion of certified reference material (CRMs), coarse residue and pulp duplicates with each batch (at least 1:20).



Assays of quality control samples were compared with reference samples in acQuire database and verified as acceptable prior to use of data from analysed batches.



Laboratory quality control data, including laboratory standards, blanks, duplicates, repeats and grind size results are captured in the acQuire database and assessed for accuracy and precision for recent data.



Extended quality control programs including pulp samples submitted to an umpire laboratory and combined with more extensive re-submission programs have been completed.



Analysis of the available quality control sample assay results indicates that an acceptable level of accuracy and precision has been achieved and the database contains no analytical data that has been numerically manipulated.



The assaying techniques and quality control protocols used are considered appropriate for the data to be used for reporting exploration drilling results. Verification of sampling and assaying Sampling intervals defined by the geologist are electronically assigned sample identification numbers prior to core cutting. Corresponding sample numbers matching pre-labelled calico bags are assigned to each interval.



All sampling and assay information were stored in a secure acQuire database with restricted access.



Electronically generated sample submission forms providing the sample identification number accompany each submission to the laboratory. Assay results from the laboratory with corresponding sample identification are loaded directly into the acQuire database.



Assessment of reported significant assay intervals was verified by re-logging of diamond drill core intervals and assessment of high resolution core photography. The verification of significant intersections has been completed by company personnel and the Competent Person/Qualified Person.



No adjustments are made to assay data, and no twinned holes have been completed.



There are no currently known drilling, sampling, recovery, or other factors that could materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the data. Location of data points Drill collar locations were surveyed using a differential GPS with GNSS with a stated accuracy of +/- 0.5m for all drill holes reported.



Drill rig alignment was attained using an electronic azimuth aligner. Downhole survey was collected at 6-12m intervals in the cover sequence, and every 6 to 30m in diamond drill core segments of the drill hole using single shot (Axis Mining Champ Gyro). The single shot surveys have been validated using continuous survey to surface (Axis Mining Champ) along with a selection of drill holes re-surveyed by an external survey contactor using a DeviGyro tool - confirming sufficient accuracy for downhole spatial recording.



A LIDAR survey was completed over the project area in Nov 2019 which was used to prepare a DEM / topographic model for the project with a spatial accuracy of +/- 0.1m vertical and +/- 0.3m horizontal. The topography is generally low relief to flat, elevation within the dune corridors in ranges between 250-265m Australian Height Datum (AHD) steepening to the southeast. All collar coordinates are provided in the Geocentric Datum of Australian (GDA20 Zone 51). All relative depth information is reported in AHD +5000m. Data spacing and distribution Within the South-East Crescent and Breccia zone drill hole spacing ranges from 50 to 100m, to 50 by 50m within the initial resource extents. Outside the initial resource boundary drill hole spacing ranges from 50 to 200m in lateral extent within the breccia zone over an area of ~2km2. The data spacing is sufficient to establish the degree of geological and grade continuity.



Significant assay intercepts remain open. Further drilling is required to determine the extent of currently defined mineralisation. No sample compositing is applied to samples.



Drilling intersects mineralisation at various angles. Orientation of data in relation to geological structure Drill holes exploring the extents of the Havieron mineral system intersect moderately dipping carbonate and siliclastic sedimentary facies, mineralised breccia and sub-vertical intrusive lithologies. Geological modelling has been interpreted from historic and Newcrest drill holes.



Variable brecciation, alteration and sulphide mineralisation is observed with a footprint with dimensions of 650m x 350m trending in a north west orientation and over 1000m in vertical extent below cover.



The subvertical southeast high grade arcuate crescent sulphide zone has an average thickness of 20m and has been defined over a strike length of up to 550m, and extended to over 700m in vertical extent below cover.



Drilling direction is oriented to intersect the steeply dipping high-grade sulphide mineralisation zones at an intersection angle of greater than 40 degrees. The drilled length of reported intersections is typically greater than true width of mineralisation. Sample security The security of samples is controlled by tracking samples from drill rig to database.



Drill core was delivered from the drill rig to the Havieron core yard every shift. On completion of geological and geotechnical logging, core processing was completed by Newcrest personnel at the Havieron facility.



High resolution core photography and cutting of drill core was undertaken at the Havieron core processing facilities.



Samples were freighted in sealed bags by air and road to the Laboratory, and in the custody of Newcrest representatives. Sample numbers are generated directly from the database. All samples are collected in pre-numbered calico bags.



Verification of sample numbers and identification is conducted by the laboratory on receipt of samples, and sample receipt advise issued to Newcrest.



Details of all sample movement are recorded in a database table. Dates, Hole ID sample ranges, and the analytical suite requested are recorded with the dispatch of samples to analytical services. Any discrepancies logged at the receipt of samples into the analytical services are validated. Audits or reviews Internal reviews of core handling, sample preparation and assays laboratories were conducted on a regular basis by both project personnel and owner representatives.



In the Competent Person's opinion, the sample preparation, security and analytical procedures are consistent with current industry standards and are entirely appropriate and acceptable for the styles of mineralisation identified and will be appropriate for use in the reporting of exploration results and Mineral Resource estimates. There are no identified drilling, sampling or recovery factors that materially impact the adequacy and reliability of the results of the drilling programme in place at the Havieron Project.

Section 2: Reporting of Exploration Results

Criteria Commentary Mineral tenement and land tenure status The Havieron Project is entirely contained within mining tenement M45/1287, which is jointly owned by Greatland Pty Ltd and Newcrest Operations Limited. Newcrest has entered into a Joint Venture Agreement (effective 30 November 2020) and Farm-In Agreement (effective 12 March 2019) with Greatland Pty Ltd and Greatland Gold plc. Newcrest is the manager of the Havieron Project. Newcrest has now met the Stage 3 expenditure requirement (US$45 million) and is entitled to earn an additional 20% joint venture interest, resulting in an overall joint venture interest of 60%. Newcrest has the right to earn up to a 70% interest and acquire a further 5% at fair market value.



Newcrest and the Western Desert Lands Aboriginal Corporation are parties to an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) which relates to the use of native title land for Newcrest's current operations at Telfer and its activities within a 60-km radius around Telfer and includes its exploration activities at Havieron. The parties have agreed that the ILUA will apply to any future development activities by the Joint Venture Participants (Newcrest and Greatland Gold) at Havieron.



The mining tenement M45/1287 wholly replaces the 12 sub-blocks of exploration tenement E45/4701 (former exploration tenement on which the Havieron Project is based) and was granted on 10 September 2020. All obligations with respect to legislative requirements including minimum expenditure are maintained in good standing for prior exploration tenement E45/4701. Exploration done by other parties Newcrest completed six core holes in the vicinity of the Havieron Project from 1991 to 2003. Greatland Gold completed drill targeting and drilling of nine Reverse Circulation (RC) drill holes with core tails for a total of approximately 6,800m in 2018. Results of drilling programs conducted by Greatland Gold have previously been reported on the Greatland Gold website.



Drilling has defined an intrusion-related mineral system with evidence of breccia and massive sulphide-hosted higher-grade gold-copper mineralisation. Geology The Havieron Project is located within the north-western exposure of the Palaeo-Proterozoic to Neoproterozoic Paterson Orogen (formerly Paterson Province), 45 km east of Telfer. The Yeneena Supergroup hosts the Havieron prospect and consists of a 9km thick sequence of marine sedimentary rocks and is entirely overlain by approximately 420m of Phanerozoic sediments of the Paterson Formation and Quaternary aeolian sediments.



Gold and copper mineralisation at Havieron consist of breccia, vein and massive sulphide replacement gold and copper mineralisation typical of intrusion-related and skarn styles of mineralisation. Mineralisation is hosted by metasedimentary rocks (meta-sandstones, meta-siltstones and meta-carbonate) and intrusive rocks of an undetermined age. The main mineral assemblage contains well developed pyrrhotite-chalcopyrite and pyrite sulphide mineral assemblages as breccia and vein infill, and massive sulphide lenses. The main mineralisation event is associated with amphibole-carbonate-biotite-sericite-chlorite wall rock alteration. Drilling has partially defined the extents of mineralisation which are observed over 650m by 350m within an arcuate shaped mineralised zone, and to depths of up to 1400m below surface. Drill hole Information As provided. Data aggregation methods Significant assay intercepts are reported as (A) length-weighted averages exceeding 1.0g/t Au greater than or equal to 10m, with a maximum of 5m consecutive internal dilution; and (B) length-weighted averages exceeding 0.2g/t Au for greater than or equal to 20m, with a maximum of 10m consecutive internal dilution, and (C) intervals of >30g/t which are greater or equal to 30 gram metres (Au_ppm x length). No top cuts are applied to intercept calculations. Relationship between mineralisation widths and intercept lengths Significant assay intervals reported represent apparent widths. Drilling is not always perpendicular to the dip of mineralisation and true widths are less than downhole widths. Estimates of true widths will only be possible when all results are received, and final geological interpretations have been completed. Diagrams As provided. Balanced reporting This is the eighteenth release of Exploration Results for this project made by Newcrest. Previous release dates are

25 July 2019, 10 September 2019, 24 October 2019, 2 December 2019, 30 January 2020, 11 March 2020, 30 April 2020, 11 June 2020, 23 July 2020, 10 September 2020, 29 October 2020, 10 December 2020, 28 January 2021, 11 March 2021, 29 April 2021 , 10 June 2021 and 22 July 2021.



Earlier reporting of exploration programs conducted by Newcrest and Greatland Gold have previously been reported. Exploration drilling programs are ongoing and further material results will be reported in subsequent Newcrest releases. Other substantive exploration data Nil Further work Growth drilling is planned to extend the December 2020 Inferred Mineral Resource estimate and define the limits of the Havieron mineralised system.

Drillhole data(1)

Havieron Project, Paterson Province, Western Australia

Reporting Criteria: Intercepts reported are downhole drill width (not true width) Au >0.20ppm (0.2g/t Au) and minimum 20m downhole width with maximum consecutive internal dilution of 10m. Average grades are based on length-weighting of samples grades. Also highlighted are high grade intervals of Au >1.0ppm (1g/t Au) and minimum 10m downhole width with maximum consecutive internal dilution of 5m, and intervals of >30g/t which are greater or equal to 30 gram metres (Au_ppm x length) are tabled. Gold grades are reported to two significant figures, the downhole lengths are rounded to 0.1m which may cause some apparent discrepancies in interval widths. Samples are from core drilling which is PQ, HQ or NQ in diameter. Core is photographed and logged by the geology team before being cut. Half core PQ, HQ and NQ samples are prepared for assay and the remaining material is retained in the core farm for future reference. Each assay batch is submitted with duplicates and standards to monitor laboratory quality. Total depth (end of hole) is rounded to one decimal place for reporting purposes. Collars denoted with a * show partial results, with further significant assays to be reported in subsequent exploration updates.

Hole ID Hole

Type Easting

(m) Northing

(m) RL

(m) Total

Depth

(m) Azi Dip From

(m) To

(m) Interval

(m) Au

(ppm) Cu

(pct) Cut

off HAD046W2 MR-DD 464273 7598202 257 1223 225 -62 Assays pending HAD053W3 MR-DD 463845 7598075 256 1141.1 132 -61 Assays pending HAD053W4 MR-DD 463846 7598077 256 557.4 132 -61 Assays pending HAD057W7 MR-DD 464459 7598026 257 1064.8 225 -55 613 636 23 5.7 0.70 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 613 628 15 8.6 0.96 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 626 627 1 45 0.77 30 g/t Au















660 689.3 29.3 1.0 0.02 0.2 g/t Au















906 976 70 2.2 0.03 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 930.5 953.6 23.1 2.0 0.04 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 962.7 975.5 12.8 5.3 0.02 1.0 g/t Au















989.4 1063 73.6 0.57 0.08 0.2 g/t Au















993.4 1003.7 10.3 1.1 0.43 1.0 g/t Au HAD057W8 MR-DD 464458 7598024 257 1153.6 225 -55 No Significant Assays HAD061W1 MR-DD 464367 7598038 257 1010.1 206 -61 Assays pending HAD064W1 MR-DD 463591 7597377 263 799 54 -54 Assays pending HAD068W3 MR-DD 464547 7597081 261 1144.2 323 -55 Assays pending HAD069W3 MR-DD 464439 7598214 257 1500.9 222 -62 Assays pending HAD069W4 MR-DD 464439 7598214 257 1586 222 -62 Assays pending HAD081W3 MR-DD 463407 7597521 263 1760.1 43 -57 Assays pending HAD084W1 MR-DD 463270 7597841 256 1983.8 83 -65 1044 1074 30 1.1 0.13 0.2 g/t Au















1555 1589.8 34.8 0.34 0.12 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 1572 1583.4 11.4 0.80 0.26 1.0 g/t Au















1627 1740.5 113.5 0.40 0.07 0.2 g/t Au















1751.3 1788 36.7 0.52 0.10 0.2 g/t Au















1854.9 1892.8 37.9 0.71 0.04 0.2 g/t Au HAD084W2 MR-DD 463270 7597841 256 1914.2 83 -65 Assays pending HAD086W2 MR-DD 464623 7598148 258 1629.6 225 -65 Assays pending HAD089W3 MR-DD 464299 7597746 258 1379.3 290 -61 532.5 564 31.5 0.22 0.03 0.2 g/t Au















574.3 611 36.7 0.17 0.01 0.2 g/t Au















780.8 803 22.2 0.54 0.18 0.2 g/t Au















818 856 38 0.21 0.12 0.2 g/t Au















872 899 27 0.48 0.02 0.2 g/t Au















911.2 1018 106.8 0.96 0.12 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 978 993 15 2.8 0.21 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 999 1012 13 1.0 0.34 1.0 g/t Au















1289 1320 31 0.68 0.03 0.2 g/t Au HAD090W1 MR-DD 463596 7597998 255 2041.2 105 -64 Assays pending HAD099W2 MR-DD 464090 7597787 257 1059.9 294 -65 643.3 770 126.7 0.66 0.07 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 647.1 659.2 12.1 1.3 0.12 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 726.9 727.1 0.4 109 0.27 30 g/t Au















819.8 867 47.2 0.51 0.12 0.2 g/t Au HAD117W2 MR-DD 464210 7597976 256 547.5 211 -61 Assays pending HAD117W3 MR-DD 464210 7597976 256 574.6 212 -61 Assays pending HAD117W4 MR-DD 464210 7597976 256 868.6 212 -61 Assays pending HAD117W5 MR-DD 464210 7597976 256 912.1 212 -61 Assays pending HAD117W6 MR-DD 464210 7597976 256 901 212 -61 Assays pending HAD133W1 MR-DD 464071 7598315 257 1673.6 171 -65 1362 1389 27 0.25 0.00 0.2 g/t Au















1446 1579 133 7.0 0.05 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 1449.5 1505.4 55.9 9.7 0.04 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 1451 1453 2 52 0.06 30 g/t Au













Incl. 1460 1461 1 37 0.08 30 g/t Au













Incl. 1480 1482 2 72 0.08 30 g/t Au













Incl. 1489 1490 1 58 0.03 30 g/t Au













Incl. 1519 1539 20 11 0.04 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 1519 1520 1 38 0.02 30 g/t Au













Incl. 1532 1536 4 36 0.11 30 g/t Au HAD133W2 MR-DD 464071 7598315 257 1545.2 171 -65 1269 1290 21 0.21 0.00 0.2 g/t Au















1413.2 1466.8 53.6 0.38 0.41 0.2 g/t Au HAD138 MR-DD 463450 7597872 253 1506.8 76 -56 683^^ 767.5 84.5 2.0 0.05 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 685.3^^ 698 12.7 6.0 0.01 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 710.2^^ 721 10.8 6.8 0.07 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 710.2^^ 711 0.8 73 0.28 30.0 g/t Au















847.9 903 55.1 0.82 0.05 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 864.8 865.6 0.8 44 0.42 30 g/t Au















1285.6 1308.9 23.3 0.22 0.02 0.2 g/t Au HAD138W1 MR-DD 463450 7597872 253 1609.7 76 -56 796 816.2 20.2 0.23 0.07 0.2 g/t Au















937.6 1095 157.4 0.93 0.21 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 1043 1059.1 16.1 5.9 0.12 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 1058 1058.7 0.7 101 0.60 30 g/t Au















1548.4 1575.6 27.2 0.80 0.05 0.2 g/t Au HAD139 MR-DD 463985 7597787 257 743.4 327 -58 516.2 563.9 47.7 0.23 0.03 0.2 g/t Au HAD140 MR-DD 463488 7598056 255 1207 100 -59 813.2 842.3 29.1 9.7 0.29 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 823.9 826.1 2.2 69 0.04 30 g/t Au













Incl. 825 826.1 1.1 152 3.6 30 g/t Au













Incl. 835.6 837.8 2.2 46 0.63 30 g/t Au















898.3 919 30.7 0.23 0.18 0.2 g/t Au















965.6 991.4 25.8 0.27 0.29 0.2 g/t Au HAD141 MR-DD 463362 7597504 264 2036.2 29 -65 1328 1415 87 1.8 0.05 0.2 g/t Au













Incl. 1378.5 1396.3 17.8 5.7 0.14 1.0 g/t Au













Incl. 1389 1390 1 50 0.43 30 g/t Au















1561 1609 48 1.4 0.02 0.2 g/t Au















1688 1735.3 47.3 0.20 0.04 0.2 g/t Au















1795 1836 41 0.21 0.03 0.2 g/t Au















1875 1898 23 1.7 0.01 0.2 g/t Au HAD141W1 MR-DD 463362 7597504 264 1985.9 27 -65 Assays pending HAD147 MR-DD 464489 7598137 258 1341.7 227 -69 Assays pending HAD147W1 MR-DD 464489 7598137 258 900.7 227 -69 Assays pending HAD147W2 MR-DD 464489 7598137 258 1405.2 227 -69 Assays pending

#drilling in progress. **partial intercept, assays pending. ^updated intercept. ^^previously reported intercept.





Figure 13. Schematic plan view map showing drill hole locations and significant intercepts reported in this release superimposed on the interpreted geology. Previously reported holes are not shown for the sake of clarity. Note some holes and results appear on multiple sections due to the sections orientation and sections overlap.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 13, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_015full.jpg





Figure 14. Schematic cross section of geology and significant new drillhole intercepts (looking northwest, Section Line S1, +/-100m section width, as shown in Figure 13). Due to section window size and orientation holes may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 14, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_016full.jpg





Figure 15. Schematic cross section of geology and significant new drillhole intercepts (looking northwest, Section Line S2, +/-100m section width, as shown in Figure 13). Due to section window size and orientation holes may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 15, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_017full.jpg





Figure 16. Schematic cross section of geology and significant new drillhole intercepts (looking northwest, Section Line S3, +/-100m section width, as shown in Figure 13). Due to section window size and orientation holes may appear on multiple sections.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 16, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/95947_12d01f0404d7bade_018full.jpg

Forward Looking Statements

This document includes forward looking statements and forward looking information within the meaning of securities laws of applicable jurisdictions. Forward looking statements can generally be identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "expect", "intend", "plan", "estimate", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "objectives", "targets", "outlook" and "guidance", or other similar words and may include, without limitation, statements regarding estimated reserves and resources, certain plans, strategies, aspirations and objectives of management, anticipated production, study or construction dates, expected costs, cash flow or production outputs and anticipated productive lives of projects and mines. Newcrest continues to distinguish between outlook and guidance. Guidance statements relate to the current financial year. Outlook statements relate to years subsequent to the current financial year.

These forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Newcrest's actual results, performance and achievements or industry results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements, or industry results, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, changes in commodity prices, foreign exchange fluctuations and general economic conditions, increased costs and demand for production inputs, the speculative nature of exploration and project development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licences and permits and diminishing quantities or grades of reserves, political and social risks, changes to the regulatory framework within which Newcrest operates or may in the future operate, environmental conditions including extreme weather conditions, recruitment and retention of personnel, industrial relations issues and litigation. For further information as to the risks which may impact on Newcrest's results and performance, please see the risk factors included in the Annual Information Form dated 13 October 2020 lodged with ASX and SEDAR.

Forward looking statements are based on Newcrest's good faith assumptions as to the financial, market, regulatory and other relevant environments that will exist and affect Newcrest's business and operations in the future. Newcrest does not give any assurance that the assumptions will prove to be correct. There may be other factors that could cause actual results or events not to be as anticipated, and many events are beyond the reasonable control of Newcrest. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements, particularly in the current economic climate with the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Forward looking statements in this document speak only at the date of issue. Except as required by applicable laws or regulations, Newcrest does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any of the forward looking statements or to advise of any change in assumptions on which any such statement is based.

Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources Reporting Requirements

As an Australian Company with securities listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), Newcrest is subject to Australian disclosure requirements and standards, including the requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 and the ASX. Investors should note that it is a requirement of the ASX listing rules that the reporting of ore reserves and mineral resources in Australia is in accordance with the 2012 Edition of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (the JORC Code) and that Newcrest's ore reserve and mineral resource estimates comply with the JORC Code.

Newcrest is also subject to certain Canadian disclosure requirements and standards, as a result of its secondary listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), including the requirements of National Instrument 43-101 (NI 43-101). Investors should note that it is a requirement of Canadian securities law that the reporting of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources in Canada and the disclosure of scientific and technical information concerning a mineral project on a property material to Newcrest comply with NI 43-101. Newcrest's material properties are currently Cadia, Lihir and Wafi-Golpu.

Competent Person's Statement

The information in this document that relates to Exploration Targets, Exploration Results, and related scientific and technical information, is based on and fairly represents information compiled by Mr F. MacCorquodale. Mr MacCorquodale is the General Manager - Greenfields Exploration and a full-time employee of Newcrest Mining Limited. He is a shareholder in Newcrest Mining Limited and is entitled to participate in Newcrest's executive equity long term incentive plan, details of which are included in Newcrest's 2020 Remuneration Report. He is a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. Mr MacCorquodale has sufficient experience which is relevant to the styles of mineralisation and types of deposits under consideration and to the activity which he is undertaking to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code and as a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr MacCorquodale approves the disclosure of scientific and technical information contained in this document and consents to the inclusion of material of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

Authorised by the Newcrest Disclosure Committee

For further information please contact

Investor Enquiries

Tom Dixon

+61 3 9522 5570

+61 450 541 389

Tom.Dixon@newcrest.com.au

Ben Lovick

+61 3 9522 5334

+61 407 269 478

Ben.Lovick@newcrest.com.au

North American Investor Enquiries

Ryan Skaleskog

+1 866 396 0242

+61 403 435 222

Ryan.Skaleskog@newcrest.com.au

Media Enquiries

Tom Dixon

+61 3 9522 5570

+61 450 541 389

Tom.Dixon@newcrest.com.au

This information is available on our website at www.newcrest.com.

1 # drilling in progress ** partial intercept, assays pending ^ updated intercept or ^^ previously reported.

2 # drilling in progress ** partial intercept, assays pending ^ updated intercept or ^^ previously reported.

3 # drilling in progress ** partial intercept, assays pending ^ updated intercept or ^^ previously reported.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95947
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - September 8, 2021) - Cuda Oil and Gas Inc. (TSXV: CUDA) ("Cuda" or the "Company") is pleased to release the results of its June 30th, 2021 Oil and Gas Reserves Evaluation ("2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report") for Wyoming and Alberta. Cuda continues to advance its major asset at Barron Flats Shannon Secondary Recovery Unit ("SSRU") in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming.

In the 2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report, Ryder Scott has identified increases to the Company's estimated Proven Developed Producing ("PDP") reserves, increasing by 12% as compared to December 31st, 2020. Furthermore, with the improved pricing environment, the net present value at a discount rate of 10% ("NPV10") increased by over 40% compared to the NPV10 at December 31st, 2020. It is important to note that these increases are realized in the absence of any additional drilled or completed wells validating the positive performance of the miscible gas flood project.

Cuda emphasizes that oil production continues to increase in wells proximal and adjacent to the injection wells. These results and bookings align the SSRU project to ultimate recovery results of the adjacent analogue field, the Sand Dunes Miscible Gas Flood ("Sand Dunes"). Over its project life, Sand Dunes recovered approximately 50% of the 48 MMbbls of OOIP or 25 MMbbls. For perspective, the Company's SSRU Project was assigned 121 MMbbls of OOIP in the 2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report, volumetrically 60% larger than Sand Dunes. Current simulation modeling by a third-party expert indicates up to 51 MMbbls, based on 100% WI, could ultimately be recovered in a full field development scenario inclusive of future development capital.

Reserves Report Highlights

All reserves information contained in this press release is based on the 2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report and includes reserves attributed to the SSRU, the Cole Creek Unit and Alberta assets. Unless specifically indicated, all financial and operational information in this press release is based on estimates and all financial information is unaudited.

Proven Developed Producing Reserves ("PDP")

The Company's PDP reserves grew 12% over 2020 reserves to 4,318 Mboe (84% oil and liquids).

NPV10 of $58.1 million.

Reserve Life Index ("RLI") of 21.4 years, based on Q2 2021 production.

Total Proved Reserves ("1P")

The Company's 1P reserves grew by 6% from 2020 reserves, to 7,859 Mboe (89% oil and liquids).

NPV10 of $83.1 million.

RLI of 37.9 years.

Proved plus Probable Reserves ("2P")

The Company's 2P reserves grew by 1% as compared to 2020 reserves, to 14,530 Mboe (92% oil and liquids).

NPV10 of $148.7.2 million.

RLI of 71.4 years.

Future development costs associated with the 1P and 2P categories are $60.9 million and $103.3 million respectively.

Other Definitions

bbls Barrels of oil bbls/d Barrels of oil per day MMbbls Million barrels of oil BOE Barrel of oil equivalence Mboe Thousand barrels of oil equivalent NPV10 Valuation based on discounted value of the reserves after all capital development, operating, costs, and royalties before taxes, discounted to present day dollars WI Working interest OOIP Original Oil in Place

Oil and Gas Reserves

The 2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report represents Cuda's oil and gas properties in Alberta and Wyoming and was prepared in accordance with the definitions, standards and procedures contained in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook and National Instrument 51-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Oil and Gas Activities ("NI 51 - 101") by Ryder Scott, the Company's independent reserves evaluator. The following table summarizes certain information contained in the 2021 Mid-Year Reserves Report:

Reserves Category

Light and

Medium Oil Natural

Gas Natural Gas

Liquids Total BOE 1

30-Jun-21 Total BOE 1

31-Dec-20 Reserves Category (Mbbl) (MMcf) (Mbbl) (Mboe) (Mboe) Proved Developed Producing 3,263 4,027 384 4,318 3,843 Proved Developed Non-Producing 41 240 3 84 253 Proved Developed 3,304 4,268 386 4,402 4,096 Proved Undeveloped 3,211 778 116 3,457 3,344 Total Proved 6,515 5,046 502 7,859 7,440 Probable 6,069 2,162 243 6,672 6,956 Total Proved Plus Probable 12,584 7,208 745 14,530 14,396

Notes

BOEs are derived by converting gas to oil equivalent in the ratio of six thousand cubic feet of gas to one barrel of oil (6 Mcf:1 bbl).

Reserve Category

Summary of Net Present Values of Future Net Revenue (Before Tax)3

(based on forecast price and costs) At June 30, 20211 At December 31, 20202 Discount Rate 10.00% 10.00% Reserves Category (M$) (M$) Proved Developed Producing 58,058 40,651 Proved Developed Non-Producing 495 1,404 Proved Developed 58,552 42,055 Proved Undeveloped 24,503 20,288 Total Proved 83,055 62,343 Probable 65,605 49,462 Total Proved Plus Probable 148,660 111,805

Notes

Forecast pricing based on Ryder Scott published price forecasts effective June 30, 2021. Forecast pricing based on Ryder Scott published price forecasts effective December 31, 2020. Estimates of future net revenue do not represent fair market value.

Operations Highlights

Operations highlights as reported at September 1, 2021 by the operator Canadian Overseas Petroleum Limited ("COPL") identified that the Wyoming assets current oil production at August 31, 2021 is 2,720 bbls/d (gross). Furthermore, the assets continue to perform significantly ahead of expectation, oil production at SSRU is increasing weekly and will continue to increase due to strong gas injection response and enhanced surface well site production facilities.1

About Cuda Oil and Gas Inc.

Cuda Oil and Gas Inc. is engaged in the business of exploring for, developing and producing oil and natural gas, and acquiring oil and natural gas properties across North America. The Cuda management team has worked closely together in both private and public company environments. Cuda will continue to implement its proven strategy of exploring, acquiring, and exploiting with a long-term focus on large, light oil resource-based assets across North America including significant operational experience in the United States. The Cuda management team brings a full spectrum of geotechnical, engineering, negotiating and financial experience to its investment decisions.

For further information please contact:

Glenn Dawson

President and Chief Executive Officer

Cuda Oil and Gas Inc.

(403) 454-0862

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties and are based on forecasts of future operational or financial results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management. In particular, forward-looking information included in this news release includes: (i) Cuda's exploration and development plans, which assume accuracy of technical and geological information and analysis and may be impacted by unscheduled maintenance, labour and contractor availability; (ii) future development costs and reserve life, which assume foreign exchange rates and accuracy of production estimates, and may be impacted by unexpected maintenance, the need to hire external resources and accelerated capital plans; (iii) reserves which are forward-looking statements by their nature involving the implied assessment that the reserves can be profitably produced, and may be impacted by energy prices, future drilling results and operating costs; and (iv) anticipated increases in production volumes and revenue. Risk factors that could prevent forward-looking statements relating to Cuda and its operating activities from being realized include ongoing permitting requirements, the actual results of current exploration and development activities, operational risks, risks associated with drilling and completions, uncertainty of geological and technical data, market conditions, the availability and nature of alternative sources of energy, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined as well as future prices of oil and natural gas. Although Cuda has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Oil and Gas Advisories

This news release contains metrics commonly used in the oil and natural gas industry, such as "future development costs" and "reserve life index". These oil and gas metrics have been prepared by management and do not have standardized meanings or standard methods of calculation and therefore such measures may not be comparable to similar measures used by other companies and should not be used to make comparisons. Such metrics have been included in this news release to provide readers with additional measures to evaluate Cuda's performance and to compare Cuda's operations over time. Readers are cautioned that the information provided by these metrics, or that can be derived from the metrics presented in this news release, should not be unduly relied upon.

Future development costs are estimates of capital expenditures required in the future for the Company to convert proved developed non-producing reserves and probable reserves to proved developed producing reserves.

Reserve Life Index or RLI is calculated based on the amount for the relevant reserves category, divided by current production.

"BOEs" may be misleading, particularly if used in isolation. A BOE conversion ratio of six thousand cubic feet of natural gas to one barrel of oil equivalent (6 Mcf: 1 bbl) is based on an energy equivalency conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and does not represent a value equivalency at the wellhead. As the value ratio between natural gas and crude oil based on the current prices of natural gas and crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1, utilizing a conversion on a 6:1 basis may be misleading as an indication of value.

This news release provides certain information relating to recovery results from gas-injection operations on properties in close proximity to the Company's properties, which is "analogous information" as defined by applicable securities laws. This analogous information is derived from publicly available information sources, which Cuda believes are independent in nature. Estimates by engineering and geotechnical practitioners may vary and the differences may be significant. Cuda believes that the provision of this analogous information is relevant to its activities and forecasting, given its interest in properties in the area; however, readers are cautioned that there is no certainty that any forecasts provided herein based on analogous information will be accurate.

Original Oil In Place ("OOIP") is used by Cuda in this news release as an equivalent to Discovered Petroleum Initially-In-Place ("DPIIP"). DPIIP, as defined in the Canadian Oil and Gas Evaluation Handbook (COGEH), is that quantity of petroleum that is estimated, as of a given date, to be contained in known accumulations prior to production. The recoverable portion of DPIIP includes production, reserves and contingent resources; the remainder is unrecoverable. The OOIP/DPIIP set forth in this news release has been provided for the sole purpose of highlighting the recovery factors used by Cuda's independent engineers in attributing reserves to Cuda effective as of June 30, 2021. It should not be assumed that any portion of the OOIP/DPIIP set forth in the news release is recoverable other than the portion which has been attributed reserves by Cuda's independent engineers. There is uncertainty that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the OOIP/DPIIP other than the portion that is attributed reserves.

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.

1 COPL Press Release dated September 1, 2021

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95959
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Axion Ventures Inc. ("Axion" or the "Company") (TSXV: AXV) (OTC PINK: AXNVF) announces today that Mr. Robert Adams has resigned as a member of the Company's Board of Directors so that he may focus his efforts on other commitments and obligations. Mr. Adams remains on the Board of Directors of Axion Games Ltd., a subsidiary of the Company.

The Board of Directors would like to sincerely thank Mr. Adams for his invaluable contribution to Axion and wish him well in his endeavours.

About Axion Ventures

Axion Ventures is an Investment Issuer with majority ownership in Axion Games, an online video game development and publishing company headquartered in Shanghai, China as well as in True Axion Interactive Ltd., its video game development company headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand cofounded with True Corporation. Axion Ventures also maintains holdings in other innovative technology companies.

NEW WEBSITE ADDRESS COMING SOON

Contact Information

Axion Ventures Inc.

Grant Kim

Interim Chief Executive Officer

info@axionagm.com

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All information contained herein that is not historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95981
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Manganese X Energy Corp. (TSXV: MN) (FSE: 9SC2) (OTCQB: MNXXF) ("Manganese X", "MN" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Mercator Geological Services Limited ("Mercator"), on August 20th 2021, has posted a complete Mineral Resource Estimate ("MRE") for the Battery Hill Manganese project (the "Project") on www.sedar.com. This detailed, 133-page Technical Report summarizes all exploration work on the property including historical and recent diamond drilling by Manganese X, that forms the basis of the MRE and makes recommendations for further exploration and development work on the Project.

Manganese X retained Mercator to complete the MRE for the Project located in New Brunswick, Canada to document the resource in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves and National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"). The purpose of this Technical Report is to provide technical disclosure in support of the Company's first MRE for the Battery Hill Project.

The Battery Hill Project includes Mineral Claim 5816, which consists of 55 mineral claim units (1,228 hectares) located near Woodstock, New Brunswick, and Mineral Claim 5745, consisting of 8 mineral claim units (179 hectares) located 10 km to the southwest. Both titles are 100% owned by Manganese X.

Perry Mackinnon VP of Exploration comments, "The completion of the Technical Report and Mineral Resource Estimate for our Battery Hill property confirming a significant Mineral Resource is a major step in the development of this deposit and is highly supportive of our confidence in this project. The MRE will serve well as a key component of our Preliminary Economic Assessment, and we look forward to the completion of that next important step."

Within the Technical Report, Mercator recommends preparation of a Pre-Feasibility Study for the Battery Hill project upon receipt of a positive economic evaluation from the Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") currently in progress.

Highlights:

Battery Hill project mineral resource estimate consists of 34.86 million tonnes of Measured and Indicated mineral resources grading 6.42% Mn, plus an additional 25.91 million tonnes of Inferred mineral resources grading 6.66% Mn utilizing a 2.5% Mn cut-off grade that reflects total operating costs having "reasonable prospects for economic extraction."

utilizing a 2.5% Mn cut-off grade that reflects total operating costs having "reasonable prospects for economic extraction." Sensitivity analysis of the Battery Hill deposit to cut-off grade indicates 12.25 million tonnes of Measured and Indicated mineral resources at 8.77% Mn and 10.61 million tonnes of Inferred mineral resources grading 9.05% Mn utilizing a cut-off grade of 7% Mn.

utilizing a cut-off grade of 7% Mn. The PEA will evaluate the economic and commercial viability of the Project to produce premium ultrahigh-purity battery-grade manganese products for the burgeoning North American electric vehicle and energy storage sectors.

products for the burgeoning North American electric vehicle and energy storage sectors. Project economics will be maximized by optimizing production schedules and starter pit outlines towards higher grade material such as indicated above.

The very large mineral resource base underlines the Project's potential to sustain long term production.

Martin Kepman, MN's CEO said "We are all extremely encouraged by this important step towards our Battery Hill Project becoming a unique North American supplier to these vital industries."

This News Release has been reviewed and approved by Perry MacKinnon, P.Geo, Vice President of Exploration with Manganese X Energy and a "Qualified Person" as defined under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Link to the complete Technical Report Filed on our website www.manganesexenergycorp.com

https://www.manganesexenergycorp.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/MNX-43-101-Battery-Hill-Aug-2021.pdf

About Manganese X Energy Corp.

Manganese X's mission is to advance its Battery Hill project into production, with the intent of supplying value-added materials to the lithium-ion battery and other alternative energy industries. The Company is also striving to achieve new environment-friendly more efficient methodologies, while processing manganese at a lower competitive cost. The company is the only manganese company in Canada and the USA moving rapidly toward commercialization of a manganese deposit.

Subsidiary Disruptive Battery Corp.'s mission is to develop an HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) air purification delivery system for cleaner and healthier air, aiming to mitigate COVID-19 and other contaminants on surfaces and in the air. For more information visit the website at www.manganesexenergycorp.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of

MANGANESE X ENERGY CORP.

Martin Kepman

CEO and Director

Email: martin@kepman.com

Tel: 1-514-802-1814

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains "forward-looking information" including statements with respect to the future exploration performance of the Company. This forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements of the Company, expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks, as well as others, are disclosed within the Company's filing on SEDAR, which investors are encouraged to review prior to any transaction involving the securities of the Company. Forward-looking information contained herein is provided as of the date of this news release and the Company disclaims any obligation, other than as required by law, to update any forward-looking information for any reason. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking information. We seek safe harbour.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95950
Basel, Switzerland, 09 September 2021. Kinarus AG, a clinical-stage Swiss biopharmaceutical company, announced today that it has signed an agreement with GEM Global Yield LLC SCS (GEM), a Luxembourg-based private, alternative investment group, for a CHF 57 million capital commitment.

Under the agreement, GEM commits to providing Kinarus with a share subscription facility of up to CHF 57 million for a 36-month term following the public listing of Kinarus' shares. Kinarus will always control the timing and, within certain limits, the amount of each individual drawdown under this facility. Concurrent with a public listing of Kinarus after the planned reverse takeover with Perfect Holding, the company will issue warrants to GEM to purchase shares of Kinarus.

Subject to the listing occurring, the proceeds from this financing will be used to progress Kinarus' clinical development portfolio. Prior to listing, a Series B financing round is currently underway to support the ongoing Phase 2 clinical trial of KIN001 in Covid-19 and the initiation of an additional Phase 2 trial in Age-Related wet Macular Degeneration.

'We are very pleased about this financial arrangement with GEM,' said Dr. Alexander Bausch, CEO of Kinarus. 'After completion of the reverse takeover with Perfect Holding, these funds will help us to broaden the clinical phase 2 portfolio of KIN001 in additional indications of high medical need.'

On 16th August, 2021, Kinarus signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Perfect Holding designated as a 'reverse takeover' or 'RTO'. A listing of Kinarus is anticipated in 2021, subject to shareholder approval and completion of its Series B financing round.
LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- St George Street Capital, a UK-based biomedical charity, and Excalibur Medicines Ltd., a biotechnology investment company, are pleased to announce the receipt of the final data from the ARCADIA Phase ll clinical trial which was conducted to assess a therapy that could treat diabetic patients suffering from COVID-19.

In light of the encouraging trial results, St George Street Capital and Excalibur will immediately start to undertake commercial discussions with potential licensees and/or fundraise for further clinical trials to investigate AZD1656 in a larger study. Further analysis to determine the precise nature of the biological effects of AZD1656 that explain the observed clinical outcomes will also be conducted.

The trial data has shown the following:

Efficacy: A strong trend towards reduced mortality in patients receiving AZD1656. This was noted in both mortality on treatment and all-cause mortality, which were lower in the AZD1656 group compared to the placebo group. The strong trend to improved mortality for patients on AZD1656 was observed on top of patients receiving other medication, including dexamethasone, as part of standard of care. Certain clinically and biochemically defined subsets of patients appeared to benefit most from treatment with AZD1656. The data from ARCADIA supports continued investigation of AZD1656 for the treatment of patients with COVID-19, with or without diabetes, in future clinical trials.

Safety and tolerability: AZD1656 was shown to be well-tolerated in this patient population with no serious adverse reactions (SARs) occurring. The degree of glycaemic control, as measured by the need to increase baseline medication requirements or the need to add additional diabetic medications, was no different between the AZD1656 group and the placebo group. The proportion of Serious Adverse Events (SAEs) was numerically lower in the AZD1656 group compared with the placebo group. The proportion of Treatment Emergent Adverse Events (TEAE) was also no different between the groups. Overall no safety concerns were identified regarding the use of AZD1656 in this patient population.

Diabetes, whether type 1 or 2, has been the leading single cause of co-morbidity during the pandemic and one in three of all deaths with COVID-19 in hospital in England have been associated with diabetes.

About the ARCADIA Trial

AZD1656 was identified by St George Street Capital as a potential treatment for people with diabetes infected with COVID-19.

The objectives of the ARCADIA clinical trial were to assess the safety and tolerability of a glucose kinase activator, AZD1656, and to determine the effect of the therapy on clinical improvement and mortality in people with diabetes hospitalised with COVID-19. The trial also explored whether AZD1656 benefits COVID-19 patients via its effects on immune function.

ARCADIA was a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase II clinical trial involving 153 patients. ARCADIA was funded by international investment through Excalibur Medicines Ltd, including the Mubadala Sovereign Wealth Fund and an HM Government grant through the UKRI/Innovate UK programme.

Professor John Martin of UCL, Chairman of St George Street Capital and PI on the Innovate UK grant awarded said: "The completion of ARCADIA marks a significant milestone in the history of the charity St George Street Capital. We have demonstrated our ability to rapidly deliver a clinical trial in an area of unmet clinical need, thus fulfilling our mission to accelerate the development of new treatments for people who need them. The promising results from this trial indicate that AZD1656, a simple oral tablet, has the potential to become a new treatment for COVID-19 - independent of viral mutations - initiating a new wave of therapies for clinicians in meeting this global challenge."

Professor Sir Chris Evans, chairman and CEO of Excalibur Healthcare Services, the parent company of Excalibur Medicines Ltd., said: "We are hugely encouraged by this data and are delighted to have played our part arranging this trial. I am particularly grateful to His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Mubadala Sovereign Wealth Fund and our own government in supporting this project. We are looking forward to the next chapter in this exciting journey which could ultimately help people who remain vulnerable to COVID-19."

Notes to editors:

About St George Street Capital

St George Street is a biomedical research charity on a mission to fast-track clinical trials so we can get new treatments as quickly as possible to the people who need them. We apply bold new thinking to unlock the therapeutic potential of therapies and science currently sitting on the shelf in pharma. We are a new type of charity, sourcing investment to accelerate clinical trials, where new science shows great potential and where patients and clinicians are calling out for treatments. St George Street was established in 2017 and brings together a powerful mix of expertise, from investors and business managers to clinic.

About Excalibur Medicines Ltd.

Excalibur Medicines Ltd (EML) is a subsidiary of Excalibur Healthcare Services, founded by leading scientific entrepreneur, Professor Sir Chris Evans, OBE. EML brought together the scientific intellectual property, international funding and a world leading team to take forward the ARCADIA trial. Professor Evans and the Excalibur team sourced investment from Mubadala of Abu Dhabi, one of the world's leading sovereign wealth funds, Excalibur itself and several high net worth individuals. Website: https://excaliburhealth.co.uk/
MELBOURNE, Australia and LIEGE, Belgium, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: TLX, Telix, the Company) today announces that it has entered into an exclusive licence agreement for a novel positron emission tomography (PET) radiotracer that originates from the Universite catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain).



The investigational-stage PET radiotracer, known as [18F]-3-fluoro-2-hydroxypropionate or [18F]-FLac, has demonstrated promise for imaging lactate metabolism in oxygenated tumours and tumour microenvironment (TME). This is based on the observation that many types of human tumours consume lactate as a respiratory fuel.

The most widely used commercial PET tracer today is 2-deoxy-2-[18F]-fluoro-D-glucose ([18F]-FDG), a radiolabelled glucose molecule that is used in ~90% of scans. Imaging with [18F]-FDG PET is used to determine sites of abnormal glucose metabolism and can characterise and localise many tumour types. However, [18F]-FDG PET relies on the cancer cells having a high metabolism and uptake of glucose, which means that [18F]-FDG cannot discriminate those tumours and TMEs that are well supplied with oxygen or not.

Professor Pierre Sonveaux and his team at UCLouvain have demonstrated that many types of cancer cells cultured under oxygenated conditions can use lactate as a respiratory fuel,1 and have developed an [18F]-labelled lactate analogue ([18F]-FLac) that enables imaging of lactate metabolism in oxygenated tumour regions.2 Telix will collaborate with Professor Sonveaux's team to explore whether [18F]-FLac may offer an alternative diagnostic modality, where glucose metabolism is reduced and [18F]-FDG is not performing, by imaging lactate transport mechanisms. [18F]-FLac could act as an adjunct to [18F]-FDG imaging and help to identify cancers that are more aggressive in nature and less responsive to current treatments, particularly immuno-oncology therapeutics.

Pierre Sonveaux, Professor at UCLouvain and Research Director at the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research (F.R.S.-FRNS) stated, "Our early research into the tumour microenvironment has shown that [18F]-FLac holds great promise as a novel PET tracer for detection of tumours that are difficult to image with [18F]-FDG. Being able to reliably detect these tumours and to take into consideration their metabolic activities holds great clinical significance for the management of many different cancers. We are also very pleased that the owner of the patent has decided that his returns from the licence fee will be given to charitable institutions. We look forward to working with Telix to continue the development of [18F]-FLac and its potential role in improving outcomes for cancer patients."

Telix Chief Scientist, Dr. Michael Wheatcroft added, "This is a very exciting and novel tumour tracer with the potential to complement the 'universal' PET agent [18F]-FDG to improve the detection of all tumours. Importantly, there are also synergies of this imaging agent with Telix's carbonic anhydrase IX (CA9) program and overall strategy to use our understanding of tumour microenvironment to target difficult-to-treat hypoxic tumours and make them more susceptible to treatment. Ultimately our aim with [18F]-FLac is to empower oncologists with more information; to identify disease that they wouldn't otherwise have seen with solid or fibrotic tumours, and steer Telix's tumour microenvironment (TME) program into new indications. We are delighted that the inventor, Professor Sonveaux, will continue to be personally involved in this research as well as an advisor for Telix's broader TME program."

___________________________________

1 Sonveaux P et al. J. Clin. Invest. 2008;118:3930-42.

2 Van Hee VF et al. Oncotarget 2017;8:24415-28.

About [18F]-FLac

The tracer, [18F]-3-fluoro-2-hydroxypropionate ([18F]-FLac), was developed by a consortium of academic researchers directed by Pierre Sonveaux, Professor at UCLouvain and Research Director at F.R.S.-FRNS. The team was supported by grants from the European Research Council (ERC No. 243188 TUMETABO), European Union's Horizon 2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie (No 642623 - RADIATE), an Interuniversity Attraction Pole (IAP) (grant No. UP7-03), the Belgian Science Policy Office (Belspo), an Action de Recherche Concertee from the Communaute Francaise de Belgique (ARC 14/19-058), the F.R.S.-FNRS, the Televie (a Belgian charity) and the Fonds speciaux de la Recherche (FSR) at UCLouvain.

About Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited

Telix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products using Molecularly Targeted Radiationand follow Telix on Twitter.

Telix Media Contact

Dr. Stewart Holmstrom

Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited

Director Corporate Communications

Email: stewart.holmstrom@telixpharma.com
Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands, 9 September 2021: While GeoJunxion's business continues to show strong resilience and improved performance as well as a very encouraging YoY topline growth during H1 2021, we regret to communicate that, in spite of very extensive efforts, it has not been possible to contract a PIE/OOB-licensed auditor for the audit of our June 2020/21 Consolidated Financial Statements.

The Company will therefore be forced to publish its Consolidated Financial Statements without an auditor's opinion. The Supervisory and Management Board regret this outcome and want to stress that the reasons and considerations of the audit firms not to serve the Company are completely outside of their control. In fact, they find the root cause in the strict application of the legislation for PIEs/OOBs, as well as in the apparent scarce resources within PIE/OOB-licensed audit firms.

The last audit firm Mazars, GOJXN's auditor up to year 2017, is still in the so-called "cooling off"-period, and as such not legally allowed to serve GeoJunxion as auditor for the June 2021 accounting year. The other (five) PIE/OOB-licensed audit firms have all decided not to offer their services, primarily for (a combination of) reasons: limited staff capacity, commercial and internal risk management considerations.

Furthermore, the Company wishes to stress that it has been completely transparent in all its press releases and communications throughout this entire process both in terms of periodic actions taken and status of contacts and negotiations with auditor firms.

Publication of the June 2021 Consolidated Financial Statements is scheduled for 21 October 2021. The Annual General Meeting of the Company's Shareholders will be held on 16 November 2021. The convocation for this Meeting will be issued no later than 4 October 2021.

Financial Update H1 2021

With the annual accounts not receiving the additional assurance of being reviewed by an external auditor, the Supervisory and Management board will continue to report results and financial statements in a fully open and transparent way on a quarterly basis. The H1 2021 Interim Consolidated Results is added to this release.

The focus of the GeoJunxion management team has been on turning the company around: Very good progress has been made in the past months to increase order intake and build a strong pipeline of opportunities. Booked orders have converted into revenue during Q2 2021 and will continue to deliver revenue growth during the remainder of the year. Efficient and effective execution of these projects is a key factor, while keeping costs under control. We have every confidence in the capabilities of our teams to work diligently towards the successful completion of our commitments.

For the full H1 2021 Interim Consolidated Results Report, please see the attachment.





Attachment
LONDON (dpa-AFX) - AstraZeneca PLC (AZN, AZN.L) announced Thursday that MANDALA and DENALI Phase III trials of fixed-dose combination of albuterol and budesonide or PT027 met all primary endpoints. The company said PT027(albuterol/budesonide), at both 180/160mcg and 180/80mcg doses, demonstrated significant benefits for asthma patients in both trials, compared to individual components albuterol, also known as salbutamol (180mcg) and budesonide (160mcg). PT027 is a potential first-in-class inhaled, fixed-dose combination of albuterol, a short-acting beta2-agonist (SABA), and budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS). It is being developed by AstraZeneca and Avillion. Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory, fluctuating respiratory disease that affects as many as 339 million adults and children worldwide. In MANDALA trial, PT027 significantly reduced the risk of severe exacerbations compared to albuterol in patients with moderate to severe asthma when used as a rescue medicine in response to symptoms. The trial included 3,132 patients with moderate to severe asthma taking maintenance ICS with or without additional controller medicines. Further, PT027 significantly improved lung function compared to individual components in mild to moderate asthma in DENALI trial. The trial included 1,001 patients with mild to moderate asthma previously treated either with a SABA as needed alone or in addition to low-dose maintenance ICS therapy. The company noted that the safety and tolerability of PT027 in both trials were consistent with the known profiles of the components. The company will present detailed data from MANDALA and DENALI at an upcoming medical meeting. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
LIDKOPING, Sweden, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Handheld Group, a leading manufacturer of rugged mobile computers, today launched a new version of the popular NAUTIZ X6 ultra-rugged phablet, a handheld computer that combines the big-screen functionality of a tablet with the go-anywhere performance of a rugged phone.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click: https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/8947251-handheld-announces-new-version-of-the-nautiz-x6/.

With this platform upgrade, the new version of the Nautiz X6 ultra-rugged phablet runs Android 11 and is Android Enterprise Recommended (AER). One of Handheld's most successful products since its launch in 2019, the Nautiz X6 is ideal for industrial and field applications with the reliability to perform most challenging outdoor and industrial environments.

The Nautiz X6 rugged phablet offers:

Android 11 operating system with GMS, Android Enterprise Recommended (AER).

A sunlight-readable, 6-inch capacitive multi-touch display with super-hardened Gorilla Glass.

IP67 ruggedness rating for waterproof, dust-tight performance, plus a broad operating-temperature range.

An 8-core, 2.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor with 4 GB RAM and 64 GB storage.

Built in GNSS solution for precise navigation using GPS/GLONASS/Galileo/BeiDou.

Dual cameras, including 13-megapixel rear-facing, and 5-megapixel front-facing.

Optional high-quality, high-speed 2D imager.

Multiple enterprise-focused accessories for professionals.

MaxGo software to quickly apply custom settings to multiple devices.

"Since its introduction, the Nautiz X6 has been one of our fastest-selling devices. With its combination of military-level ruggedness, slim design, and reliable performance, the Nautiz X6 has been exactly the rugged handheld our customers needed," says Johan Hed, Handheld Group director of product management. "The platform upgrade and Android 11 plus the quality assurance that the Enterprise Recommended certification brings is likely to add to the product's success."

Availability

The new version of the Nautiz X6 can be ordered now with shipments expected to start in mid-September.

Helpful links



NAUTIZ X6 product specifications

Press images

Customer success stories

What is rugged?

About Handheld

Handheld Group is a manufacturer and global supplier of rugged mobile computers, handhelds and tablets. Handheld and partners worldwide deliver mobility solutions to businesses within geomatics, logistics, forestry, public transportation, utilities, construction, maintenance, mining, military and security. Handheld Group, headquartered in Sweden, has subsidiaries in Finland, the U.K., the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Australia and the USA. Learn more at www.handheldgroup.com.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1609481/Handheld_Nautiz_X6_ultra_rugged.jpg
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Commerce Resources Corp. (TSXV:CCE)(FSE:D7H0)(OTCQX:CMRZF) (the "Company" or "Commerce") is pleased to provide an update on the progress of its metallurgical program to produce samples of mixed rare earth carbonate ("REC") concentrate to satisfy several requests by global processors. As part of this program, continued bench-scale flowsheet development, ahead of scale-up and bulk processing, has resulted in the highest rare earth element ("REE") recoveries to date into the combined high-grade monazite mineral concentrate1 as well as into the subsequent sulphation crack water-leach liquor phase (i.e., the pregnant leach solution or "PLS"). Highlights include:

Monazite mineral concentrate 1 grade ofapproximately 40% rare earth oxide ("REO") at 82% recovery and 3.2% mass pull (recovery and mass pull with reference to unprocessed whole rock).

(recovery and mass pull with reference to unprocessed whole rock). Recoveries of 98% Nd, 98% Pr, 95% Tb, and 90% Dy into the PLS (with reference to the mineral concentrate 1 ).

(with reference to the mineral concentrate ). Combined overall NdPr recovery of approximately 78% into the PLS (with reference to unprocessed whole rock).

The flowsheet for the Ashram REE/ Fluorspar Deposit, developed by Hazen Research, uses conventional unit processes to produce a high-grade rare earth mineral (monazite) concentrate1 that is comparable to active global hard-rock REE producers. Specifically, the Ashram flowsheet utilizes a flotation - HCl leach - magnetic separation process approach to achieve high-grade (>40% REO) monazite concentrates1 at high recovery comparable to active global producers.

In the current work, flotation concentrate produced from the 2015 pilot plant operation was used as feed to the subsequent HCl leach and magnetic separation stages, which were completed at bench scale and resulted in monazite concentrate1 grades of approximately 40% REO at 82% overall recovery. The monazite concentrate1 was then mixed (in ~50 g batches) with concentrated sulphuric acid (H2SO4) and heated to ~220C in a stirred pot over a ~3-hour period to convert the contained REEs into soluble rare earth sulphates (i.e., the 'sulphation crack'), which were then dissolved in a water leach to bring the REEs into solution (i.e., the 'PLS'). The recent test work resulted in the highest recoveries of REEs achieved to date in the sulphuric acid - water leach stage, at 98% for NdPr, as well as the highest overall recoveries achieved to date from unprocessed rock into the PLS, at approximately 78% NdPr.

All major hard rock REE mines globally produce mineral concentrates of at least 35-40% REO, which are then placed into solution and processed downstream into marketable products. Such high grades of mineral concentrate considerably reduce the downstream processing cost and risk through lower reagent use, fewer deleterious elements entering solution, and a smaller hydromet plant requirement by comparison. With respect to the Ashram Deposit, test work has now demonstrated that >80% of the REEs in the unprocessed deposit material can be effectively concentrated (i.e., recovered) into just 3-4% of the original mass, resulting in a significant upgrade factor of over 21 times the original head grade. In addition, the recent work has now demonstrated that 98% of the NdPr contained in this concentrate can be put into solution for downstream recovery. These results are also a strong improvement on the 90-95% REE recoveries into solution achieved in prior test programs.

Company President, Chris Grove comments, "The ongoing work on the Ashram flowsheet has demonstrated that very high-grade monazite concentrates1 at high recoveries have been produced, and there is still room for improvement. Moreover, the prior bench-scale work has demonstrated that producing high-grade monazite concentrates1 at high REE recoveries is repeatable, and now, the current test program has demonstrated that high REE recoveries into solution at the sulphuric acid water-leach stage, are also repeatable. Our metallurgical results to date continue to solidify our belief in Ashram as a potential low-cost leader for mixed REC / NdPr supply to the global market."

In the next steps of the process flowsheet the leach liquor produced from the sulphuric acid water-leach stage will be treated by solvent extraction ("SX") to reject thorium followed by SX to purify and concentrate the REEs. A mixed REC, high in NdPr, will then be precipitated from the SX strip liquor. This test work is currently being completed on the bench scale and in parallel to the scale-up of the sulphuric acid pot digestion stage from 50 g batches to 2.5 kg batches. The test work will continue to scale up until approximately 2.5 kg of on-spec mixed REC is produced.

Concentrate refers to the recovered REE minerals into the magnetic fraction of the magnetic separation stage (~70% of the overall REEs) as well as the REEs that have been precipitated and recovered from the HCl leach liquor fraction (~12% of the overall REEs). Collectively, the combined concentrate accounts for >80% overall REE recovery through this stage, which is then fed together into the sulphation crack stage.

NI 43-101 Disclosure

Darren L. Smith, M.Sc., P.Geo., Dahrouge Geological Consulting Ltd., a Permit holder with the Ordre des Geologues du Quebec and Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, supervised the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

About Commerce Resources Corp.

Commerce Resources Corp. is a junior mineral resource company focused on the development of the Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Deposit located in Quebec, Canada. The Company is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth producers globally, with a specific focus on being a long-term supplier of mixed rare earth carbonate and/or NdPr oxide to the global market. The Ashram Deposit is characterized by simple rare earth (monazite, bastnaesite, xenotime) and gangue (carbonates) mineralogy, a large tonnage resource at favourable grade, and has demonstrated the production of high-grade (>45% REO) mineral concentrates at high recovery (>70%) in line with active global producers. In addition to being one of the largest rare earth deposits globally, Ashram is also one of the largest fluorspar deposits globally and has the potential to be a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets.

For more information, please visit the corporate website at http://www.commerceresources.com or email info@commerceresources.com.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

COMMERCE RESOURCES CORP.

" Chris Grove "

Chris Grove

President and Director

Tel: 604.484.2700

Email: cgrove@commerceresources.com

Web: http://www.commerceresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information which is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the progress of the Company's metallurgical program and any future methods employed therein, the Company's ability to reduce downstream processing costs and risk, the Company's ability to repeat and produce high-grade monazite concentrates, the Company's ability to become one of the lowest cost rare earth producers globally as well as its potential ability to be a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these statements from coming to fruition include that the methods proposed do not work as well as expected, the leach residue may not be usable, that the Company may experience difficulties producing concentrate or achieving an upgrade to the concentrate; changing costs for mining and processing; increased capital costs; the timing and content of the work programs; geological interpretations based on drilling that may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumption based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits that with further test work may not be comparable; that testing of the Company's process may not prove successful and even if tests are successful, the economic and other outcomes may not be as expected; the availability of labour, equipment and markets for the products produced; and despite the current expected viability of the project, conditions changing such that the minerals on our property cannot be economically mined, or that the required permits to build and operate the envisaged mine can be obtained. The novel strain of coronavirus, COVID-19, also poses new risks that are currently indescribable and immeasurable. The forward-looking information contained herein is given as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no responsibility to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Commerce Resources Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663235/Commerce-Resources-Corp-Achieves-98-NdPr-Recoveries-into-Solution-from-Sulphation-Crack-of-its-High-Grade-Concentrates
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / FALCON GOLD CORP. (TSXV:FG)(GR:3FA)(OTCQB:FGLDF); ); ("Falcon" or the "Company") is pleased to announce it has acquired through staking 91 claims (the "Property") totaling 2,275 hectares located in the Great Burnt base-metal rich greenstone belt in central Newfoundland (Figure 1). The Great Burnt greenstone belt is host to the Great Burnt Copper Zone with an indicated resource of 381,300 tonnes at 2.68% Cu and inferred resources of 663,100 tonnes at 2.10% Cu. (https://www.spruceridgeresources.com/great-burnt.php) Recent drilling in 2020 by Spruce Ridge Resources reported 8.06% Cu over 27.2m (TSXV:SHL press release dated March 18, 2021). The Great Burnt greenstone belt also hosts the South Pond A and B copper-gold zones and the End Zone copper prospect within a 14 km mineralized corridor.

Figure 1. Regional location of Falcon's Great Burnt copper property.

The Property

The Property is hosted within the Great Burnt greenstone belt (GBGB) which hosts Besshi-type massive sulphide deposits. These types of deposits generally occur in thick sequences of marine sedimentary rocks ranging from black shale to arkose to greywacke. Sulphide lenses can be several meters thick and extend for several kilometres. Besshi-type massive sulphide deposits are generally copper dominant and can contain precious metals such as gold and often contain cobalt. The Property is also located 4km west of the Crest Resources-Exploits Discovery joint venture project within the Exploits Subzone. The Exploits Subzone contains deep seated gold-bearing structures of the Dog Bay-Appleton Fault- GRUB Line deformation corridor that contains the high-grade Keats Gold Zone of New Found Gold.

Figure 2. Location of the Falcon Gold acquisition proximal to Spruce Ridge Resources.

Commentary

"We are extremely pleased to have acquired yet another land package that lies in a metal endowed greenstone belt of Central Newfoundland that has seen very little systematic exploration. This property not only has the potential to host important Exploits Subzone orogenic gold mineralization but also copper-rich massive sulphides that contain gold "said Karin Rayani, Chief Executive Officer of Falcon Gold Corp. "We look forward to performing a high resolution airborne magnetic and electromagnetic survey over our entire property position and integrating mineralization trends and historical results to vector exploration efforts to those areas of high merit."

Qualified Person

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

The QP and the Company has not completed sufficient work to verify the historic information on the properties comprising the Great Burnt property claim group particularly regarding historical exploration, neighbouring companies, and government geological work.

About Falcon Gold Corp.

Falcon is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on generating, acquiring, and exploring opportunities in the Americas. Falcon's flagship project, the Central Canada Gold Mine, is approximately 20 km southeast of Agnico Eagle's Hammond Reef Gold Deposit which has currently estimated 3.32 million ounces of gold (123.5 million tonnes grading 0.84 g/t gold) mineral reserves, and 2.3 million ounces of measured and indicated mineral resources (133.4 million tonnes grading 0.54 g/t gold). The Hammond Reef gold property lies on the Hammond shear zone, which is a northeast-trending splay off of the Quetico Fault Zone ("QFZ") and may be the control for the gold deposit. The Central Gold property lies on a similar major northeast-trending splay of the QFZ.

The Company holds 7 additional projects. The Camping Lake Gold property and the Springpole West Property in the world-renowned Red Lake mining camp; a 49% interest in the Burton Gold property with Iamgold near Sudbury Ontario; and in B.C., the Spitfire-Sunny Boy, Gaspard Gold claims; and most recently the Hope Brook and Baie Verte Brompton Line acquisitions adjacent to First Mining, Sokoman-Benton's JV, and Marvel Discovery in Central Newfoundland.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Falcon Gold Corp.

"Karim Rayani"

Karim Rayani

Chief Executive Officer, Director

Telephone: (604) 716-0551

Email: info@falcongold.ca

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, etc. Forward looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Falcon Gold Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663270/Falcon-Gold-Acquires-Ground-in-Great-Burnt-Copper-Gold-Region-Central-Newfoundland-Belt
- REFIRE PRISMA XII+ fuel cell system makes Euro debut, revealing latest tech innovations in fuel cell power and efficiency for heavy-duty trucks

- REFIRE actively engages global partners, customers along the hydrogen value chain, for greater collaboration and commercialisation of the fuel cell industry.

MUNICH, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the context of the current global response to climate disruption, hydrogen technologies are crucial to achieving a carbon-neutral future, particularly within the mobility sector. At IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, Shanghai REFIRE Technology Co., Ltd. (REFIRE), as a leading global provider of hydrogen fuel cell technologies, presents its new cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell system PRISMA XII+ that incorporates the company's latest technological advancements, providing heavy-duty trucks with greater power and efficiency. The European debut of REFIRE's PRISMA XII+ is supported by Germany's eCap Mobility, a strategic partner for the European market. The two companies have been cooperating since late 2019 to develop rapidly deployable and sustainable hydrogen mobility end use cases.

Such advantages as a longer range and faster refuelling, combined with a greater load-carrying capacity make fuel cells a uniquely attractive option for heavy-duty trucks, as this sector accelerates a transition towards decarbonisation. The PRISMA XII+ fuel cell system targets the increasing number of performance challenges faced by heavy-duty trucks deployed across a range of different application scenarios. Efficiency upgrades for the system amount to a net 10 per cent improvement over previous models with the balance of plant (BOP) power consumption down by 10 kW. PRISMA XII+ is designed to operate for at least 30,000 hours with less than a 10 per cent degradation in performance - a figure to put it on par with heavy-duty internal combustion engines.

Founded in 2015 with the vision of accelerating mass adoption of zero-emission fuel cell mobility and power, REFIRE has delivered more than 3,000 fuel cell system variations to its customers. These have been deployed in over 2,700 operational fuel cell commercial vehicles and other project types in 17 cities across China and in 5 other countries including Germany.

In August this year, a converted Mercedes-Benz Citaro bus equipped with a REFIRE PRISMA fuel cell system made its operational debut at the Lower Oder Valley National Park in Germany to provide a zero-emission passenger service throughout the ecologically protected zone.

REFIRE also continues to expand its international footprint, both by introducing its products and services into the European market and by reaching global partnerships to accelerate its goal of sustainable mobility and power.

Assisted by TUV Nord, recent RDW[1] certification granted to REFIRE's PRISMA fuel cell system and its ASTRAWORKS factory system further paves the way for REFIRE's European market expansion and is key to clustering reputable partners and tailoring products for international markets.

You will find REFIRE as a co-exhibitor at GRIP at the IAA Mobility 2021:

Booth B4.B81

About REFIRE

Headquartered in Shanghai, China, REFIRE is a leading global provider of hydrogen fuel cell technologies. The company specialises in the design, testing, prototyping, application engineering and production of integrated fuel cell systems for buses, trucks, specialised vehicles, and marine applications.

As of mid August 2021 combined vehicle mileage exceeds 75 million kilometres representing a kerbside carbon emission reduction of 39,000 tonnes.

[1] RDW (Rijks Dienst Wegverkeer) is the Vehicle Authority in the Netherlands and authorised on European level to oversee certification for incoming vehicles.

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ESTP Paris will provide students with innovative learning experiences by integrating the 3DEXPERIENCE platform into its curricula

Students can boost their employability by developing the knowledge and know-how needed for major projects and for accelerating the industry's digital transformation

3DEXPERIENCE platform goes beyond BIM by enabling construction and operational virtual twins for sustainable built environments

Dassault Systemes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) and ESTP Paris, France's leading engineering school in the construction and civil engineering sectors, today announced they have entered into a strategic partnership to enable students to develop new skills that will foster their employability and help accelerate the digital transformation of the construction industry.

ESTP Paris, which educates most professionals in the construction, spatial planning, real estate and energy efficiency sectors in France, will integrate Dassault Systemes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform on the cloud into three curricula: Virtual twin for construction, Construction 4.0 including modular construction, and Smart City. In addition, Dassault Systemes and ESTP Paris will develop innovative courses in these domains that leverage the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

These new learning experiences will equip students with the skills they need to manage the digital aspects of major construction and civil engineering projects once they enter the workforce. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform provides a virtual collaborative environment that transforms traditional construction processes with cloud-based experiences that advance the efficient, innovative and sustainable delivery of new structures and systems. It goes beyond BIM by enabling construction and operational virtual twins for sustainable built environments.

"The construction industry is undergoing profound transformation that requires knowledge and know-how to better respond to environmental and social challenges. Companies are relying on top schools like ESTP Paris to train this workforce," said Florence Verzelen, Executive Vice President, Industry, Marketing Sustainability, Dassault Systemes. "Developing skills in schools and in continuing education with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform will accelerate this transformation and the delivery of resilient, optimized buildings and infrastructure that improve quality of life. ESTP Paris has understood this, and is leading the way by deploying the platform as the cornerstone of its curricula."

"Digital technologies are facilitating the rapid development of intelligent buildings, smart cities, and sustainable infrastructure. It is imperative that our students master these technologies to become the senior managers needed to build the world of the future while addressing energy efficiency, connectivity, urban growth and other areas," said Joel Cuny, Chief Executive, ESTP Paris. "The 3DEXPERIENCE platform will enable us to train our students on the latest technologies so that they become highly-skilled professionals with sought-after industry skills."

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For more information:

Dassault Systemes' 3DEXPERIENCE Edu: https://academy.3ds.com/en

Dassault Systemes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions: http://www.3ds.com

About Dassault Systemes

Dassault Systemes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, is a catalyst for human progress. We provide business and people with collaborative 3D virtual environments to imagine sustainable innovations. By creating virtual twin experiences of the real world with our 3DEXPERIENCE platform and applications, our customers push the boundaries of innovation, learning and production. Dassault Systemes brings value to more than 290,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com

3DEXPERIENCE, the Compass icon, the 3DS logo, CATIA, BIOVIA, GEOVIA, SOLIDWORKS, 3DVIA, ENOVIA, NETVIBES, MEDIDATA, CENTRIC PLM, 3DEXCITE, SIMULIA, DELMIA, and IFWE are commercial trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systemes, a French "societe europeenne" (Versailles Commercial Register B 322 306 440), or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries.

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Contacts:

Dassault Systemes Press Contacts

Corporate France

Arnaud MALHERBE

arnaud.malherbe@3ds.com

+33 (0)1 61 62 87 73

North America

Suzanne MORAN

suzanne.moran@3ds.com

+1 (781) 810 3774

EMEAR

Virginie BLINDENBERG

virginie.blindenberg@3ds.com

+33 (0) 1 61 62 84 21

China

Grace MU

grace.mu@3ds.com

+86 10 6536 2288

India

Santanu BHATTACHARYA

santanu.bhattacharya@3ds.com

+91 9717972875

Japan

Yukiko SATO

yukiko.sato@3ds.com

+81 3 4321 3841

Korea

Jeemin JEONG

jeemin.jeong@3ds.com

+82 2 3271 6653

AP South

Pallavi MISRA

pallavi.misra@3ds.com

+65 90221874
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted ONK Therapeutics' patent for CISH knockout (KO) in Natural Killer (NK) cells based on the earliest scientific discoveries

The patent, under exclusive global license from WEHI, gives ONK key IP for CISH KO in human NK cells for their use in cancer therapies, irrespective of cell origin

The CISH IP adds to ONK's broad and growing IP estate covering the optimization of persistence, metabolic profile and cytotoxic potential of its NK cell therapy platform

ONK Therapeutics Ltd, an innovative NK cell therapy company, today announced that the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted its licensed patent that covers CISH knockout (KO) in NK cells, irrespective of the source of the NK cells, including, for example, human cord blood-derived and human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived cells (Patent No. 11104735).

Earlier this year ONK entered into an exclusive global patent license agreement with Australia's Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) providing it rights to CISH KO in the field of human NK cells for the treatment of cancer, with the right to sublicence.

"We are excited to have this unparalleled opportunity to explore the potential of CISH KO in human NK cells. We believe this is the foundational patent, based on the earliest scientific discoveries which cover CISH KO NK cells from any source, and we intend to evaluate this edit in both umbilical cord blood and iPSC-derived NK cells," said ONK Therapeutics' CEO Chris Nowers.

CISH KO has been shown to improve the persistence, metabolic profile, and cytotoxic potential of NK cells. While several other companies and academic centers are exploring the potential of a CISH KO on NK cells, the research team at WEHI, in 2015, was the first to show the critical role CIS, the protein encoded by CISH, plays in negatively regulating the function of NK cells.

Prof. Michael O'Dwyer, founder and CSO of ONK Therapeutics said, "Editing of NK cells to knock out CISH has the potential to improve the potency of the NK cell-based therapies and provide greater benefit to patients."

We are building an unrivaled and broad IP estate against multiple NK cell checkpoint receptors, including extracellular proteins CD96, TIGIT, Siglec-7 and PD-1 as part of our innovative strategy to engineer a highly differentiated NK cell therapy platform that has broad potential across both hematological malignancies and solid tumors."

WEHI's Head of Biotechnology and Commercialisation Dr Anne-Laure Puaux said, "Cell-based therapies have demonstrated their enormous potential as disease-modifying therapies in oncology. By licensing our intellectual property to ONK Therapeutics we are supporting the opportunity to develop more potent cell-based therapies for the future benefit of cancer patients."

In addition to this granted CISH KO US patent, ONK Therapeutics has filed a US continuation patent application. Parallel filings are also under review in the EU by the European Patent Office (EPO) as well as in China, Japan, Australia and New Zealand, thus providing excellent coverage for the company's commercial interests.

-Ends-

About CISH and the WEHI patent

CIS (encoded by the gene CISH) is a member of the suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS) family of proteins. When NK cells are stimulated with growth factors, such as interleukin 15 (IL-15), which encourage their growth, survival, and killing capability, there is an increase in the activity of CIS protein, which acts as a brake or checkpoint, on further NK cell growth and function.

The WEHI team found that when CIS was removed from NK cells by deleting the CISH gene, the NK cells were more responsive to growth factors and had improved survival and killing capacity(1). Improving the metabolic fitness of NK cells to enhance glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation is important for optimizing the anti-tumor activity of NK cells, especially against solid tumors(2-3)

Delconte, R., Kolesnik, T., Dagley, L. et al. CIS is a potent checkpoint in NK cell-mediated tumor immunity. Nat Immunol 17, 816-824 (2016) https://www.nature.com/articles/ni.3470?proof=t Daher et al., Targeting a cytokine checkpoint enhances the fitness of armored cord blood CAR-NK cells Blood Sept 9, 2020 Zhu et al., Metabolic Reprograming via Deletion of CISH in Human iPSC-Derived NK Cells Promotes In Vivo Persistence and Enhances Anti-tumor Activity Cell Stem Cell Sept 3, 2020

About ONK Therapeutics - www.onktherapeutics.com

ONK Therapeutics Ltd is an innovative cell therapy company dedicated to developing the next generation of 'off-the-shelf', dual-targeted NK cell therapies targeting solid and hematological cancers.

The company was founded in 2015, by Prof. O'Dwyer MD, of NUI Galway, an expert in translational multiple myeloma research, the tumor microenvironment, and exploitation of NK cells as cellular immunotherapy. Its core proprietary off-the-shelf cell therapy platform is based on a dual-targeted NK cell expressing both a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting a known tumor antigen and a TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand variant (TRAILv) targeting the death receptor pathway (i.e., DR4 or DR5). This unique approach has the potential to enhance efficacy by addressing both intrinsic (e.g., CAR engagement of a tumor-specific antigen) and extrinsic (e.g., signaling through the death receptor pathway) apoptotic pathways and to reduce the susceptibility to possible target antigen escape through the engagement of tumor antigen-independent TRAILv.

Its pre-clinical pipeline comprises three programs:

ONKT101 is a dual-targeted NK cell therapy incorporating a CD19 CAR and TRAILv targeting DR5, intended for the treatment of relapsed/refractory B cell malignancies. This program is partnered with Avectas, with the company having responsibility for development to Phase 1

ONKT102 combines an optimized affinity CD38 CAR and a TRAILv targeting DR5, intended for the treatment of patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma

ONKT103 combines a TA-MUC1 CAR with a TRAILv targeting DR5, for the treatment of solid tumors

ONKT104 combines a CLL-1 CAR with a TRAILv targeting DR4, for the treatment of AML

In addition to the unique off-the-shelf, dual-targeted NK cell therapy platform, the company has a strong focus on engineering strategies to enhance tumor homing and persistence in-vivo, and overcome exhaustion in the tumor microenvironment, including the exploration of proprietary gene edits, such as the deletion of checkpoint receptors in NK cells.

ONK Therapeutics is headquartered in the med-tech hub of Galway, Ireland, with a wholly-owned US subsidiary, ONK Therapeutics, Inc. based at JLabs San Diego. Shareholders include Acorn Bioventures, ALSHC (principally Seamus Mulligan), and Enterprise Ireland.

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View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005036/en/

Contacts:

International

Sue Charles

Charles Consultants

+44 7968 726585

sue@charles-consultants.com

Ireland

Ray Gordon

Gordon MRM

+353 87 2417373

ray@gordonmrm.ie
Largest frozen food producer in Europe commits to Business Ambition for 1.5C campaign, setting new emissions reduction targets approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)

- Ambitious 2025 interim science-based targets contribute to net-zero ambitions:

45% reduction per ton of product produced across scope 1,2 and 3 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from purchased goods and services, upstream transportation and distribution, waste and upstream leased assets, and a 25% reduction in absolute terms 1

Top 75% of Nomad Foods suppliers by emissions covering purchased goods and services will have science-based targets by 20252

Nomad Foods Limited (NYSE: NOMD), Europe's leading frozen food company, has today announced plans to significantly reduce Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions with approved science-based targets across its operations and supply chain. The targets are consistent with the reductions required to keep global warming to 1.5C, the most ambitious goal of the Paris Climate Agreement.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005076/en/

In addition to reducing Scope 1 and 2, and Scope 3 emissions in areas such as purchased goods, transportation and distribution by 25% in absolute terms over the next four years; Nomad Foods will also provide vital support to its suppliers, ensuring that the top 75% by emissions, develop their own science-based targets by 2025.

The new targets have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and build on significant progress already made under Nomad Foods "Eating for the Planet" sustainability strategy which includes timebound commitments on sourcing, nutrition and operations.

In 2020 Nomad Foods significantly reduced carbon emissions per ton of finished goods by more than 20% and absolute emissions by nearly 11%, despite dramatically increased production volumes as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2020, Nomad Foods became a signatory of the 10x20x30 global initiative to halve food loss and waste in supply chains by 2030. It has already reduced edible food waste per ton of finished goods by 31% compared to a 2015 baseline as well as preventing surplus edible food from being wasted by donating 1.7 million meals to food banks in 2020.

The company is on track to move to 100% renewable electricity across all factories3 by October 2021.

In 2021, Nomad Foods demonstrated further commitment to the Company's sustainability strategy by incorporating KPIs covering sourcing, packaging and GHG emissions into its refinancing structure.

Stefan Descheemaeker, Nomad Foods' Chief Executive Officer, said"Every day, millions of households enjoy products from Birds Eye, Findus, iglo and our other leading brands and we want to ensure that when consumers choose our products it's a positive choice for them and for the planet. As attention focuses on the COP 26 Climate Change Conference in November, we must all step up to the challenge of delivering a net-zero economy. We are excited that the SBTi has validated our emission reduction targets and as we commit to the Business Ambition for 1.5C campaign and the UN's Race to Zero we recognise that we cannot succeed on our own.

"We have a diverse supply chain that spans from fisheries to farming and accounts for almost 80% of our greenhouse gas emissions. I'm very proud of the work we are doing to collaborate with suppliers and deliver the wider change needed to help consumers eat sustainably.

"By focusing first on our 2025 milestones, we will almost halve emissions per ton of product and ensure the top 75% of our suppliers by emissions have science-based reduction targets in place. This will ensure we reach net-zero well before 2050, as we deliver on our promise of long-term sustainable growth for shareholders."

"We congratulate Nomad Foods on setting science-based targets consistent with limiting warming to 1.5C, the most ambitious goal of the Paris Agreement," said Alberto Carrillo Pineda, Managing Director, Science Based Targets at CDP, one of the Science Based Targets initiative partners. "By setting ambitious science-based targets grounded in climate science, Nomad Foods is taking action to prevent the most damaging effects of climate change."

Klaus Beyer Nielsen, CEO of Nomad Foods' strategic supplier Espersen4said "The partnership between Espersen and Nomad Foods is built on a solid foundation. Our joint business planning has been an enabler to further strengthen our collaboration and has driven sustainable innovation, resource efficiency and consumer value. Environment and climate have always been an important part of Espersen's sustainability agenda throughout the value chain. The fact that Nomad Foods' climate goals have been approved by the Science-Based Targets Initiative sends a clear signal to us as a strategic supplier to reduce our own emissions further. In addition, we will also urge our producers to reduce their climate impact."

1 Compared to 2019 baseline

2 Suppliers account for approximately 80% of Nomad Foods' total emissions

3 This excludes Findus Switzerland which was newly acquired in January 2021

4 Espersen is a world leader in the processing of high-quality frozen fish blocks and frozen fish fillets and has been a key supplier of Nomad Foods for over 20 years for further information please visit Espersen's website http://www.espersen.com/

About Nomad Foods

Nomad Foods (NYSE: NOMD) is Europe's leading frozen foods company. The company's portfolio of iconic brands, which includes Birds Eye, Findus, iglo, Aunt Bessie's and Goodfella's, have been a part of consumers' meals for generations, standing for great tasting food that is convenient, high quality and nutritious. Nomad Foods is headquartered in the United Kingdom. Additional information may be found at www.nomadfoods.com

Notes to editors:

About Nomad Foods targets

Nomad Foods commits to reduce scope 1 and 2 and scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services, upstream transportation and distribution, waste and upstream leased assets 45% per ton of product produced and 25% in absolute terms, by 2025 from a 2019 base year. Nomad Foods also commits that the top 75% of its suppliers by emissions covering purchased goods and services will have science-based targets by 2025.

The SBTi classifies targets against the long-term temperature pathways of well-below 2C and 1.5C. The SBTi's Target Validation Team has classified Nomad Foods' scope 1 and 2 target ambition and has determined that it is in line with a 1.5C trajectory.

About the SBTi

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) aims to drive ambitious corporate climate action. It mobilizes companies to set science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and boost their competitive advantage in the transition to the low-carbon economy. It is a partnership between CDP (formerly the Carbon Disclosure Project), the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute(WRI) and the Worldwide Fund for Nature(WWF).

The SBTi call to action is one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. The initiative defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting, offers resources and guidance to reduce barriers to adoption, and independently assesses and approves companies' targets.

Targets adopted by companies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are considered to be "science based" if they are in line with what the latest climate science says is necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5C.

About Race To Zero

Race To Zero is a global campaign to rally leadership and support from businesses, cities, regions, investors for a healthy, resilient, zero carbon recovery that prevents future threats, creates decent jobs, and unlocks inclusive, sustainable growth

It mobilizes a coalition of leading net zero initiatives, representing 733 cities, 31 regions, 3,067 businesses, 173 of the biggest investors, and 622 Higher Education Institutions. These 'real economy' actors join 120 countries in the largest ever alliance committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the latest. Collectively these actors now cover nearly 25% global CO2 emissions and over 50% GDP.

The objective is to build momentum around the shift to a decarbonized economy ahead of COP26, where governments must strengthen their contributions to the Paris Agreement. This will send governments a resounding signal that business, cities, regions and investors are united in meeting the Paris goals and creating a more inclusive and resilient economy.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005076/en/

Contacts:

Nomad Foods

Media

Sam Fulton

Group Director of Corporate Affairs

sam.fulton@nomadfoods.com

+44 7936 924691

Oliver Thomas

Corporate Affairs Manager

oliver.thomas@nomadfoods.com

+44 7568 108744
Two-thirds of retail staff want masks, screens and distancing for foreseeable future.

LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Shopworkers have reported a rise in cases of verbal, physical or sexual harassment in the workplace sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new study by national law firm Foot Anstey. In addition, the majority believed the lifting of many restrictions on 19 July - 'Freedom Day' - had exacerbated, not diminished, the level of harassment.

Foot Anstey's survey of 1,048 shopworkers found that 61% had experienced some form of offensive behaviour while working for their current employer, for whom the impact manifested as stress (45%), anxiety (43%) and a loss of self-esteem (19%).

Today's survey findings follows an open letter in July calling for greater legal protection for retail workers, which was signed by the leaders of 100 retailers, including Ikea, Sainsbury's and Tesco, and organised by the British Retail Consortium (BRC).

Foot Anstey's study supports this suggestion of a need for greater protection. Half of respondents (50%) noted a rise in harassment during the COVID-19 pandemic (versus 42% who did not), and of that group 95% had seen a rise in verbal harassment, one in five (20%) physical harassment, and 5% sexual harassment within their working environment.

Shopworkers identified masks (57%), social distancing (45%), limits on customer numbers in store (38%) and stock shortages (36%) as the main causes of confrontation. Additionally, the majority believed enforcing their retailer's COVID safety measures after 'Freedom Day' resulted in a rise of aggressive behaviour; 52% agreed, versus 21% who did not.

However, nearly three-quarters of shopworkers (72%) agreed having COVID safety measures in stores made them feel safer, versus just 10% who did not. Almost two-thirds of shopworkers wanted to see masks (65%), protective screens (65%) and social distancing (64%) remain in place for the foreseeable future, and 37% wanted a continued limit on numbers in-store, highlighting retail workers' unease at going back to pre-pandemic working environments and the need to strengthen protection for retail workers.

Nathan Peacey, Partner and Head of Retail and Consumer at Foot Anstey said: "Our 2021 study paints an unpleasant picture of the experiences of many retail workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is concerning to see that the majority of these keyworkers faced physical, sexual or verbal harassment as they went about their daily work, and that significant numbers experienced mental health issues as a direct result.

"Creating safe places to work and shop is a key theme for retailers, and we have seen them increase the pressure on government to take effective steps, whilst doubling down on their own efforts to look after their people. Retail workers told us they felt there were not enough laws in place to protect them. It is essential that existing laws are enforced, or news ones brought in, to support retailers' own protocols, guidance and response measures and support those on the retail frontline feel safer and supported."

Key data from the Foot Anstey Retail Harassment Survey:

61% of shopworkers have experienced offensive behaviour while working for their current employer

Half (50%) noted a rise in harassment during the COVID-19 pandemic (42% did not, 8% did not know). Of those that had seen a rise:

- 95% noted it was verbal harassment

- 20% noted it was physical harassment

- 5% noted it was sexual harassment

- 95% noted it was verbal harassment - 20% noted it was physical harassment - 5% noted it was sexual harassment Masks (57%), social distancing (45%), limits on customer numbers in store (38%) and stock shortages (36%) were cited as the main causes of confrontation

52% reported a rise in aggressive behaviour when enforcing their retailer's COVID safety measures after Freedom Day on 19 July - 21% did not.

72% believed COVID safety measures in stores made them feel safer, versus just 10% who did not. The safety measures favoured included:

- Masks 65%

- Protective screens 65%

- Social distancing 64%

- Limit on customer numbers in-store 37%

- Masks 65% - Protective screens 65% - Social distancing 64% - Limit on customer numbers in-store 37% 65% believed there are not enough laws in place to protect shopworkers

65% wanted zero tolerance messages to customers and 42% highlighted a need for clear guidance on how to report harassment

57% felt their retailer cared about protecting staff from inappropriate behaviour, versus 36% who did not.

20% had raised a grievance with their retailer as a result of inappropriate behaviour

Open letter

Don't allow shop abuse to worsen, retail bosses tell PM - BBC News

Notes to editors

Methodology

The Foot Anstey study surveyed 1,048 retail workers during the period July 2021 to August 2021. Interviews were conducted by online panel and comprised shopworkers from a variety of retail settings, including but not limited to, supermarkets, department stores, petrol stations, and online retailers.

About Foot Anstey

Foot Anstey is one of the UK's fastest growing law firms. Over our history we've grown from a high-street firm to a significant regional and national player working with leading brands and individuals predominantly across six key sectors.

Foot Anstey. Powering Your Ambition

www.footanstey.com

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Latest additions to Global Thought Leaders campaign

LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Internationally-renowned TBD Media Group have announced the latest Global Thought Leaders (GTL) in an ongoing campaign to highlight thinkers and innovators shaping the future of the planet.

A sustainable future for the planet requires a broad coalition of forces and through GTL, the most powerful and influential organizations in the world are stepping up to play their part.

Paolo Zanini, Founder and CEO of TBD Media Group says:

"The overwhelming theme I have seen is that businesses are using technology to find new ways of working that create efficiencies, and close production gaps to create circular economies. Global businesses are shaping our world and through GTL we are seeing how these businesses are giving us reasons to be optimistic about achieving a sustainable future."

The latest GTL companies represent some of the world's most exciting and innovative companies operating at the top of their talent to pioneer sustainable practices; together they cover the disciplines of engineering, medicine, financial services and utilities. The companies have been announced as:

Aqualia, Balgrist University Hospital, Cellcard, Ejendals, EMD Electronics, FFT Produktionssysteme, MANN+HUMMEL, PASHA Bank, TECO 2030.

For more information about the GTL campaign, visit: https://www.globalthoughtleaders.org/

About TBD Media Group:

TBD Media Group is an international, purpose-driven, media developer that helps companies, organisations and governments tell their brand stories in a human and direct way. Learn more at https://www.tbdmediagroup.com/ .

Media Contact:

Jenna-Leigh Soobramoney

Head of Marketing

TBD Media Group

j.soobramoney@tbdmediagroup.com

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*Tune into Day 2 of the Summit at 13:00 GMT at essentialforrecovery.org*

London, UK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wednesday, Sept. 8 marked the opening day of the first-ever global summit of essential workers. Participants from around the world tuned in to a powerful conversation about an economic recovery that prioritizes essential workers, especially women in the informal economy.

"Universal social protections for essential workers are no longer a choice for governments; it is a very necessary move for governments to take," Lorraine Sibanda, president of StreetNet International, an international alliance of street vendors, told the crowd.

The Essential for Recoverysummit, which runs from September 8 through September 10, brings together essential workers from North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia with global business and government leaders to discuss a framework for a just economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. The event centers the demands of care workers and the 61% of workers worldwide who labor in the informal economy, including domestic workers, agricultural workers, street vendors, and home-based workers.

"Home-based workers contribute around $300 billion to the economy, but they don't get any benefit out of it. We are part of supply chains but we are not recognized as contributors to the supply chains," said Saira Feroze of the Home-Based Women Workers Federation, on Day 1 of the summit.

The first day of the innovative summit brought together diverse voices from across the globe. Martha Chen, a lecturer at Harvard and senior advisor to Women in Informal Employement: Globalizing and Organizing (WIEGO), interviewed Rosheda Muller, president of the South African Informal Traders Alliance, on how street vendors are organizing globally. Legendary South African labor leader Myrtle Witbooi spoke with Maina Kiai, senior official at Human Rights Watch and former United Nations Special Rapporteur. And actor and activist Martin Sheen and actress Yalitza Aparicio made special appearances.

"COVID-19 taught us the importance of all workers in different sectors, recognizing that they deserve decent work and are important in the global economy. Governments know about this issue, but what are they doing about it?" asked Aparicio, who was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in the 2019 movie Roma.

Day 2 of the event on Thursday will focus on the fight against inequality, sexual harassment, and abuse in the workplace. Guests include: Rosa Pavanelli, the General Secretary of Public Services International, interviewing "Mama Union" Rose Omamo, leader of the Kenyan metal workers union; journalist Xanthe Scharff interviewing Mercedes D'Alessandro, feminist economist and Argentine government official; and journalist Reena Ninan interviewing business leader Brid Gould of Sodexo.

###

About Essential For Recovery:
MARSEILLE, France, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Another milestone in the ambitious nature and conservation plans for AlUla, a significant heritage and culture site in north-west Saudi Arabia, has been achieved with a three-year cooperation agreement between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The vast desert region has been home to civilisations for millennia, from ancient Arabian tribes and Kingdoms to settlers from near and far drawn to the landscapes of lush green oases, vast mountains and valleys. However, recent decades have seen factors of desertification and climate change affect the natural balance of the ecosystem.

The conservation team at RCU has developed the building blocks of a programme to regenerate nature at AlUla and redress the balance. The overall project has a goal of converting 80% of AlUla into nature reserves, in line with the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to improve quality of life and protect the future by increasing reliance on clean energy.

One of the centrepieces of the regeneration effort is the emergence of the Sharaan Nature Reserve, spanning 1,560 square kilometres. The reserve's perimeter fence is complete, and the visitors centre and wildlife breeding centre are to open by early 2024. The reserve will follow a dedicated masterplan in which the primary objectives are to restore and conserve a healthy desert ecosystem, with its natural complement of characteristic desert flora and fauna, including the breeding and reintroduction of the Arabian Leopard and other native species.

Other plans include a long-term conservation strategy for the Khaybar area; a fauna and flora inventory; creation of a nursery to provide 56 plant species for landscaping and ecological restoration; and activation of policies relating to irrigation, use of local plants and sustainability.

The cooperation agreement was signed by The Royal Commission for AlUla Governor His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud and the IUCN Director General Dr Bruno Oberle. The announcement of the agreement coincides with RCU's participation in the IUCN World Conservation Congress at Marseille, France from September 3-11.

The agreement will greatly assist RCU in applying a scientific perspective to issues of nature conservation and sustainable development, and to define relevant projects, activities and financial agreements as it regenerates a vast expanse of north-west Saudi Arabia centred on AlUla County. RCU's vision for nature focuses on the restoration of wildlife and their habitats in a sustainable way that diversifies the economy and provides opportunities for the local community.

Commenting on the agreement, Amr AlMadani, the CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: "Just as nature is an ecosystem, so too is international conservation. The development over the next three years of a symbiotic relationship with IUCN will help us carve out an increasingly active place in this ecosystem. It will help us fulfil our plans by harnessing the expertise of the global conservation community to achieve our vision."

This year's IUCN congress is the first at which RCU is participating, with a presence including workshops and a local action pledge. Saudi Arabia has been an IUCN member since 1981.

The 10 areas of cooperation under RCU's partnership with IUCN are:

Enhancing support for effective and equitable governance of natural resources. Preserving and conserving the integrity of nature. Sharing solutions to overcome challenges. Supporting the implementation of protected areas and natural heritage management through the IUCN's Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas. Supporting the implementation of wild nature restoration and management. Developing education and capacity-building initiatives on conservation and sustainable management of natural resources. Providing capacity-building in the field of sustainable tourism development and management. Organising and hosting joint expert meetings, including international experts, IUCN's Commission members and regional and international members of IUCN. Promoting sustainable ecotourism for AlUla in the IUCN World Conservation Congress through sponsorship and participation opportunities. Any other areas agreed upon by the parties.

About AlUla

Located 1,100km from Riyadh in north-west Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. The vast area, covering 22,561km, includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years.

The most well-known and recognised site in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 52-hectare ancient city, Hegra was the principal southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom and is comprised of nearly 100 well-preserved tombs with elaborate facades cut into sandstone outcrops. Current research suggests Hegra was the most southern outpost of the Romans after conquering the Nabataeans in 106 CE.

In addition to Hegra, AlUla is home to a series of fascinating historical and archaeological sites such as: an Old Town surrounded by an ancient oasis; Dadan, the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan Kingdoms, which is considered one of the most developed 1st-millennium BCE cities of the Arabian Peninsula; thousands of ancient rock art sites and inscriptions in Jabal Ikmah; and Hijaz Railway stations.

Note to editors:

It is always AlUla / not Al-Ula

About the Royal Commission for AlUla

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU's long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development, that preserves the area's natural and historic heritage, while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611871/AlUla_RCU_agreement_IUCN.jpg
STOCKHOLM, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Highly respected providers of world-wide iGaming hosting solutions, Internet Vikings is rapidly expanding into the U.S. market. Having recently announced the launch of its initial operations in West Virginia , the company is now excited to introduce its bespoke iGaming hosting services in Colorado. But this is just the second step in Internet Vikings' expansion into the U.S. with 11 more states expected to come onto their map by the end of the year.

As the USA steadily continues to recognise the immense commercial value of the online gaming business, implementation of the necessary regulations for its legalization is quickly spreading across the country. Internet Vikings is thereby furthering its global reputation as a forward-looking industry leader, paving the way for iGaming operators in a nation with tremendous potential and offering sophisticated bespoke hosting solutions for gaming businesses of all dimensions and for clients who have specific requirements.Elena Kvakova, Internet Vikings' Head of U.S. Expansion has been heading up the company's pivotal move into America from their office in New York since 2020. Preparing the groundwork has been an important challenge, involving a thorough study of the differences and specifics of gambling legislation which vary from state to state, in a country with a complex legal system.

The initial preparations in order to get the industry off the ground has been a learning curve not only for Internet Vikings - despite 13 years of successful global operations in many jurisdictions - but also for the U.S. regulators, as they have worked at establishing suitable and compliant legal structures for each state. This is best expressed in the words of Elena Kvakova: "The biggest challenge for Internet Vikings was finding the right approach to a new market in which regulators did not expect such an innovative and robust business model, as well as trying to find our own niche in a newly formed legal environment".

Internet Vikings has already achieved success despite these complexities. The experience has made them one of the leading experts in U.S. gambling law by developing a profound understanding regarding their future expansion across the USA. The level of their knowledge has grown to the extent that they now gladly help other iGaming companies to set up and expand in this market, as well as offering valuable advice through their webinars.

Elena Kvakova expressed the strengths of Internet Vikings by saying: "What we have seen so far, is that the licensed hosting options in the U.S. are both limited and costly and something which providers have to figure out, in addition to everything else. So what we are trying to do in a few key states right now, is to reconsider that setup, and offer equally reliable and secure services, but making them more agile and cost-effective. No other company in the USA is offering such flexible, innovative and robust solutions. We want to grow and transform alongside our clients".

Internet Vikings is not the only company of its kind on American soil, yet it certainly stands out above the others. Professional, knowledgeable and forward-thinking, they offer a host of unique iGaming hosting services as well as caring attention to each and every client. The company aims to provide trustworthy infrastructure and servers in the nearest future in all 13 major iGaming hubs in the U.S., paying close attention to the unique needs of each individual business.

This is a rapidly growing, cutting edge team of over 70 experts spread around the world, with data centers and offices on almost every continent. Strategic and agile in their approach, they don't merely follow industry trends, but continually seek to anticipate and precede such developments. Tremendous time, dedication and resources have been utilized in order to achieve their position as a frontrunner on the flourishing U.S. iGaming landscape, working with great commitment to take a leading role in what is likely to become the world's biggest online gaming hotspot.

For press enquiries please contact

Julija Lavosnik

+447738878811

julija.lavosnik@internetvikings.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/internet-vikings-international-ab/r/opening-new-doors-in-the-u-s--internet-vikings-launches-igaming-hosting-in-colorado,c3412377

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ITM AG, a leading radiopharmaceutical company, today announced that it will host a virtual industry satellite symposium titled, "A Global Perspective on the Management of Neuroendocrine Tumors the Evolving Role of Targeted Radionuclide Diagnostics and Therapy" at the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress 2021. The symposium will feature renowned key opinion leaders in the field and will be held on Friday, September 17th, 2021, from 10:30 am 12:00 pm CEST on channel 3, open to ESMO registered participants.

The speakers are key precision oncology experts and will lead critical discussions addressing the changes within the treatment and diagnosis of neuroendocrine tumors. They will cover a range of topics examining the impact of NET diagnostic paradigms, treatment guidelines, and recent advancements within the clinical studies of Targeted Radionuclide Therapy. In addition to the ongoing COMPETE trial, the new phase III trial COMPOSE, a prospective study in high Grade 2 and Grade 3 gastroenteropancreatic NETs, will be presented. Participants will be able to interact with the speakers in a Q&A session at the end of the event.

Scientific Program and Participating Experts:

Welcome Introduction

Raj Srirajaskanthan, MD , FRCP King's College Hospital, London, UK (5 mins)

, King's College Hospital, London, UK (5 mins) Changes in the Incidence and Prevalence of NETs Impact of New Diagnostic Paradigms

Simon Singh, MD, MPH Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada (20 mins)

Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada (20 mins) The Evolution of Guidelines for the Treatment of NETs

Namrata Vijayvergia, MD, FACP Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, U.S. (20 mins)

Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, U.S. (20 mins) The Role of Targeted Radionuclide Therapy in Clinical Trials

Grace Kong, MBBS (Hons), FRACP, FAANMS Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Melbourne, Australia (20 mins)

Peter MacCallum Cancer Center, Melbourne, Australia (20 mins) Q&A and Closing Remarks (25 mins)

For further information please visit ITM's ESMO 2021 Symposium website or the official ESMO webpage.

End

About ITM Isotopen Technologien Munchen AG

ITM, a privately held radiopharmaceutical biotech company founded in 2004, is dedicated to providing the most precise cancer radiotherapeutics and diagnostics to meet the needs of patients, clinicians and our partners through excellence in development, production and global supply. With patient benefit as the driving principle for all we do, ITM is advancing a broad pipeline combining its superior radioisotopes with targeting molecules to create precision oncology treatments. ITM is leveraging its leadership and nearly two decades of radioisotope expertise combined with its worldwide network to enable nuclear medicine to reach its full potential for helping patients live longer and better. For more information, please visit www.itm.ag.

ITM Isotopen Technologien Munchen AG

Executive Board: Steffen Schuster (CEO), Dr. Klaus Maleck (CFO) Supervisory Board: Udo J Vetter (Chairman) Registered Office: Garching/Munich

District Court of Munich Commercial Register 154 944 Phone: +49 (0)89 329 8986 600 Fax: +49 (0)89 329 8986 650 Email: info@itm.ag

Tax Number: 143/100/82466 VAT Number: DE813228901 Deutsche Bank Freiburg IBAN: DE52680700300022816300 BIC: DEUTDE6F

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005039/en/

Contacts:

ITM Corporate Contact

Susanne Karlsson Trophic Communications

Interim Head of Marketing Communications

Phone: +49 89 329 8986 1502

Email: susanne.karlsson@itm.ag

ITM Media Requests

Stephanie May or Desmond James

Phone: +49 171 185 56 82

Email: itm@trophic.eu
STOCKHOLM, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GpsGate, an industry-leading fleet management software company, confirms today the DigiMobi contract renewal by Airport Authority Hong Kong for the Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). DigiMobi is a leading vehicle tracking services (VTS) provider in Hong Kong and a GpsGate customer for over a decade.

HKIA handles flights to around 200 destinations and operates round-the-clock. They have over 200 aircraft parking bays and nearly 5000 airport vehicles and ground support equipment including fueling trucks, baggage tractors, and service vehicles. Since 2015, DigiMobi has provided vehicle tracking services to HKIA. Thanks to GpsGate's outstanding features, DigiMobi won a new contract to provide services through 2025 after a tendering process and compliance testing.

A leader in technology adoption, HKIA has been awarded World's Best Airport many times and by multiple publications. The fleet management solution allows the AA to identify potential problems and solve them before they happen. This saves money, increases resource utilization, and helps provide a stellar passenger experience at HKIA.

The fleet management system includes all standard tracking features. It also includes apron road traffic detection and seamless indoor/outdoor tracking of baggage tractors. GpsGate Server displays the current traffic conditions on the apron through changing geofence colors, and the baggage tractors switch from GPS to Bluetooth & iBeacons for seamless outdoor/indoor tracking.

Project overview:

up to 5000 vehicles/GSE (ground support equipment)

over 17000 drivers

up to 500 simultaneous system operators

nearly 300 separate subscriber companies

over 99.9% system uptime

For further information, please contact:

Sven Vedin

VP of Sales

sven.vedin@gpsgate.com

+46(0)8 612 50 70

About GpsGate

A pioneer in VTS and fleet management software, GpsGate was founded in Stockholm in 2007. GpsGate software is user-friendly, secure, and optimized for large fleets. Designed for solution providers, the white-label platform features open APIs for system integrations, a flexible user interface, and a scalable and extensible foundation. Learn more at https://gpsgate.com/success-stories/digi-mobi-hong-kong-airport.

About DigiMobi

DigiMobi is a leading provider of VTS fleet management solutions in Hong Kong using GpsGate Server as their backend software. Since 2008, DigiMobi has been helping companies manage their mobile resources anywhere and anytime using IoT solutions and big data. Learn more at https://www.digimobi.net.
BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - German stocks were moving lower on Thursday, with concerns of slowing global growth and caution ahead of the European Central Bank's policy meeting weighing on sentiment. Meanwhile, German exports growth eased in July and imports declined for the first time in three months, data from Destatis showed. Exports grew 0.5 percent on a monthly basis, as expected, following a 1.3 percent rise in June. At the same time, imports dropped unexpectedly by 3.8 percent, reversing June's 0.7 percent increase. On a yearly basis, exports climbed at a slower pace of 12.4 percent after rising 23.6 percent in June. Likewise, growth in imports eased to 16.6 percent from 27.1 percent in the previous month. The benchmark DAX was down 51 points, or 0.3 percent, at 15,559 after tumbling 1.5 percent in the previous session. Earlier in the day, the index hit over a one-month low. Germany's Merck KGaA shares rallied 2 percent. The chemicals company expects Group sales to grow organically by more than 6 percent annually on average up to 2025. Drug delivery devices maker Gerresheimer AG was slightly lower. The company said its Supervisory Board prematurely extended the contract of Chief Financial Officer Bernd Metzner, aged 50, by a further five years until May 2027. Travel stocks fell, with airline Lufthansa losing nearly 2 percent. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Danish software company pioneers new category of AI and Machine Learning to improve patient consultations. The funding will help expand the company's patient base from 15 to 100 million consultations a year.

Corti.ai, one of the leading SaaS companies in the fast-growing category of Artificial Intelligence for healthcare, announces a $27 Million Series A round.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005416/en/

Andreas Cleve, Co-founder CEO Lars Marcher, Chairman of the Board Lars Maale, Co-founder CTO (Photo: Business Wire)

The investment was led by Vaekstfonden -The Danish Growth Fund and Chr. Augustinus Fabrik, who joins existing investors Hearcore, Id Invest, and byFounders. The company was founded by Lars Maale and Andreas Cleve in 2016.

Unlike the majority of Artificial Intelligence startups that are pursuing image recognition use cases, Corti has focused on improving the workflow around patient consultations. Corti's machine learning platform can listen in during patient consultations and help to document, code, and quality assure the interaction in real-time, saving time and reducing risk. Corti started working within emergency medicine, supporting emergency calls focused on cardiac arrest and COVID-19 cases but has since then moved into supporting medical staff conducting consultations across healthcare.

Andreas Cleve CEO:

"Healthcare professionals only have a few minutes with each patient, and these encounters are compromised by keyboards and screens, hated by patients and doctors alike. What we've been able to prove at Corti is that machine learning can be a life-saving tool by offering a new kind of "deep listening" that will not only improve patient outcomes but also save time and money"

The company's patented technology automatically listens in during patient consultations on phone or video. Here it uses machine learning models to transcribe and analyze thousands of variables within each consultation.

Lars Maale CTO:

"Not only is our technology able to document consultations, it automatically compares each patient's symptom description to millions of other patients to offer real-time decision support during the engagement, like nothing else available in the market today."

Since its inception several studies have validated the efficacy of Corti's human-computer partnership and found that Corti can help medical professionals deliver best-in-class results. Research from Copenhagen Emergency Services found that Corti could help reduce the amount of undetected out-of-hospital cardiac arrest cases by more than 40%, with almost no training of the personnel needed.

The new funding comes on top of the $5m seed round raised in 2019, and the company plans to use the money to fuel its expansion into primary care in the US. We will use this $27m raise to accelerate Corti's growth plans further in the coming years, new products will be launched, and we have plans to enter primary care and win the US market for consultations intelligence.

"We are very proud of our work in the field of emergency medicine, but already today we are analyzing roughly 250.000 low acuity consultations per month, proving that the technology can be a massive value-add for both telehealth companies, clinical call-centers, and GPs around the world", Lars Maale explains.

The company has won several accolades for its innovations within applied artificial intelligence, including VentureBeat's "Best Global AI Innovation 2018" and the "Future Unicorn Award 2020" award by the European Commission for being the most likely next unicorn from the European continent.

"Although we are humbled by the overwhelming feedback we have received, we have a dauntingly ambitious roadmap ahead, and as long as there are patients who need Corti to listen in to get the help they need, we have work to do', CEO Andreas Cleve explains.

Several investors commented about their decision to back Corti.ai and its consultation intelligence platform:

"The global healthcare system has been tested over the last 18 months, and it has shown some fundamental challenges around availability and access to expertise that needs to be addressed. Robust and ethical technology can help solve some of these critical problems, and we believe Corti is a shining example of a revolutionary technology that can help define the market for artificial intelligence in healthcare.

- Rolf Kjrsgaard, CEO Vaekstfonden

"We have been following the company for a long time, and we are pleased to contribute to the continued rapid growth. To be able to build a category-defining product with world-class technology that can save human lives is not only commendable, it's also a fantastic opportunity that we are proud to back".

- Claus Gregersen, CEO Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker:

About Corti

Corti is a Danish health-tech company that has developed a software platform leveraging artificial intelligence to help healthcare personnel during patient consultations. As the consultation progresses, Corti's artificial intelligence is listening in to write notes, search databases, and compare symptom descriptions with millions of historical cases to ensure each patient gets the optimal treatment. The company is among the global leaders in applied artificial intelligence and has been recognized with several awards.

About Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker

Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker is a more than 270-year-old company that has positioned itself as a long-term and professional owner of Danish companies. This is done with great respect for the fact that ownership and day-to-day management are different disciplines. Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker's philosophy is that of being a committed and loyal owner with a focus on dialogue, trust, and long-term value creation in companies with an international outlook. The ownerships include Tivoli, Gyldendal, Jeudan, Royal Unibrew, Fritz Hansen and Podimo. Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker is a subsidiary of the Augustinus Foundation, which is one of Denmark's major cultural foundations. With a balance of more than DKK40 billion Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker's investments make it possible to reinvest actively in the Danish business community in parallel with contributing to the Augustinus Foundation's philanthropic activities. See more at: www.augustinusfabrikker.dk

About Vaekstfonden

Vaeksfonden is the Danish state's investment fund. Working in close collaboration with banks and domestic and international investors, Vaekstfonden discovers and develops the companies that Denmark cannot afford to miss out on. The power of innovation, yield to society and responsibility are the three signposts that guide Vaekstfonden in finding and choosing new projects. Since 1992, Vaekstfonden has contributed more than DKK 38 billion to help develop and grow more than 10.000 companies. See more on: https://vf.dk/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005416/en/

Contacts:

Andreas Cleve, CEO

ac@corti.ai +45 40 61 22 22
HARBIN, China, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- August 30 marks the second anniversary of the establishment of Harbin sub-area of Heilongjiang pilot free trade zone (FTZ). Over the past two years, a total of 8,787 new enterprises have been established in Harbin sub-area. Nearly one-third of the enterprises in the whole city are high-tech. The import from and export to Russia have doubled. A series of data from the Harbin sub-area administrative committee reflect the changes of reform and development in this land.

The Heilongjiang pilot free trade zone (FTZ) is China's northernmost free trade zone with a total area of 119.85 square kilometers. The FTZ has three sub-areas, with one in the provincial capital of Harbin and the other two in the cities of Heihe and Suifenhe on the China-Russia border.

The Harbin sub-area, located on the bank of the Songhua River, has formulated the development plan of building the technology and innovation center, financial center, business convention and exhibition center, international culture and tourism center, and highland for emerging industrial clusters. It also aims to build two industrial clusters with a scale of quasi-100 billion yuan and four industrial clusters with a scale of 50 billion yuan, as well as boost the agglomeration of industrial parks, such as Shenzhen (Harbin) Industrial Park.

"Deepening reform and innovation is the most prominent feature of the free trade zone," said Ren Hailong, deputy director of the Harbin sub-area administrative committee.

Over the past two years, the Harbin sub-area has imitated 206 reform experiences from free trade zones in Shanghai and other places, and accelerated its own exploration. Reform measures were initiated to streamline the approval processes and enforcement forces, which has attracted a number of large and good projects with large scale and sufficient development potential to settle down and grow here.

After submitting electronic materials in the industrial park, Ivan Dutkovsky received the business license for New Arbat Cultural Development Co., LTD. The new approach to cross-border business registration services has saved him a lot of round-trip costs.

Harbin Hylink Information Technology Co., Ltd has seen its production value soar from 7.26 million yuan in 2016 to 110 million yuan in 2020. The corporate headquarter in Shenzhen is moving to Harbin.

Based on its own industrial foundation and comparative advantages, the Harbin sub-area has launched a series of policies from the supply side, such as 10 measures helping enterprises listing. It promises that "the Harbin sub-area can have the policies that other areas have; Policies that are not available in other regions can be negotiated in the Harbin sub-area."This truly gives way to the market and benefits enterprises, further stimulating the market vitality and highlighting the agglomeration effect of the free trade zone.

"We have initially formed five industrial clusters with a scale of tens of billions yuan in equipment manufacturing, bio-medicine, green food, finance and culture and tourism. The bio-medicine industrial cluster has also been approved to be listed in the first batch of strategic emerging industrial clusters in China." said Ren.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611858/Harbin.jpg
BERLIN (dpa-AFX) - Germany's exports grew at a slower pace in July and imports declined for the first time in three months, data from Destatis showed on Thursday. Exports were up only 0.5 percent on a monthly basis in July, following a 1.3 percent rise in June. The rate came in line with economists' expectations. Exports have been rising since May 2020. At the same time, imports dropped unexpectedly by 3.8 percent, reversing June's 0.7 percent rise. Economists had forecast a monthly growth of 0.2 percent. Due to the fall in imports, the trade surplus increased to a seasonally adjusted EUR 17.9 billion in July from EUR 13.5 billion in the previous month. On a yearly basis, exports climbed at a pace of 12.4 percent after rising 23.6 percent in June. Likewise, growth in imports eased to 16.6 percent from 27.1 percent in the previous month. The trade surplus totaled an unadjusted EUR 18.1 billion in July versus a EUR 19.2 billion surplus in the same period last year. Data showed that the current account surplus fell to EUR 17.6 billion from EUR 20.2 billion last year. Exports to EU member countries rose 17.7 percent and imports from those countries increased 18.7 percent. Shipments to the People's Republic of China declined 4.3 percent annually in July while that to the United States advanced 15.7 percent. At the same time, most imports came to Germany from the People's Republic of China. The value of the goods imported from China increased 3.9 percent and imports from the United States were up 4.1 percent. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
FX Reviews has found that many often supposedly credible forex brokers in South Africa are deceiving clients. The only way that investors can avoid being deceived is to put in the work to find the best broker, say experts.

OLBERSDORF, GERMANY / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / The prospect of high leverages and being able to open an account with as little as $20 may be attractive, but FX Reviews' findings suggest that many investors are being deceived. Most forex investors or traders only find out that there is some sleight of hand involved when it comes time to start trading, making money, and withdrawing the earnings. That's why FX Reviews has a pretty extensive list of forex brokers, with in-depth reviews, which helps people avoid brokers that use deceptive tactics.

FX Reviews has a list of the best forex brokers in South Africa. Each of the brokers on the website is well-reviewed; the reviews can be accessed on the official website. Furthermore, forex traders get to know each broker in a great deal of detail before choosing to do business with them. That often means forex traders can focus on trading and not figure out if they are working with the right broker in the country.

Readers can find the complete list of trusted forex brokers by FX Reviews at https://fxreviews.best/

The forex trading industry is worth over several billion dollars. Each day traders in particular trade millions of dollars worth of currency pairs. That's why it comes as no surprise that the industry is dotted with unscrupulous forex brokers that use deceptive marketing to attract traders. In South Africa, many forex traders are victims of deception, and some have lost money to brokers who were scammers.

"We put in a great deal of time, money, and effort into finding and reviewing forex brokers. 99% of the forex brokers we trust and that are listed on our website, we use personally and would openly recommend. Sure, many of these brokers aren't offering insanely high leverages, but that's because it is impossible to do realistically. Not to mention that high leverages also mean mega losses, if the currency pair moves in the opposite direction." Said a reviewer working for FX Reviews.

She added, "We want South Africans to feel comfortable when doing business with a forex broker. That's why we've only listed the brokers that we trust. That way, it's almost guaranteed that you will not be scammed. That said, if you know of a broker on our list that has burnt you, we'd like to hear about it."

About FX Reviews:

Forex Broker Review specializes in reviewing forex brokers across the world. Many of the forex brokers reviewed are submitted by users for review. The goal of the website is to help people choose the best forex broker, by making an informed decision.

#

Contact Info:

FX Reviews

Lietzensee-Ufer 71, Olbersdorf, Freistaat Sachsen. Germany

03583 80 18656

info@fxreviews.best

https://fxreviews.best/

SOURCE: FX Reviews

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663320/FX-Reviews-Finds-Many-Forex-Brokers-May-Be-Deceiving-Clients
Study evaluates the Proposed Project and three Expansion Scenarios for the Pebble copper-gold-molybdenum-silver-rhenium project [1]

All alternatives are extensions of the Proposed Project reviewed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Innovative engineering design and environmental safeguards set new standard for American mining

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (TSX:NDM)(NYSE American:NAK) ("Northern Dynasty" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the results of a 2021 Preliminary Economic Assessment ("2021 PEA") providing updated production, financial and cost estimates for its proposed Pebble Project (the "Proposed Project") in Southwest Alaska as described in the Pebble Project permit application and its amendments, which recently underwent a comprehensive review by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ("USACE") culminating in their publishing of a Final Environmental Impact Statement ("EIS"). In addition to the Proposed Project, the 2021 PEA examines three potential mine expansion scenarios, and potential alternative strategies for gold recovery that could form the basis for future permit applications and review. U.S. dollars and U.S. standard units are used unless otherwise indicated. All results are post-tax.

The currently proposed project detailed in the 2021 PEA is the Proposed Project, and is consistent with the Project Description in the Pebble EIS, published by the USACE in July 2020. It does not include an onsite gold plant. With the exception of the Proposed Project, all development alternatives evaluated in the 2021 PEA are presented to demonstrate the optionality inherent in the polymetallic Pebble deposit by presenting a broad range of potential pathways for future mine development. The 2021 PEA also models other options for potential development in the future, to show how the project life could be extended and metal production enhanced through an expansion at different points in time or via alternative treatment scenarios. Neither Northern Dynasty nor the Pebble Partnership has proposed or intends to propose any of these development alternatives in the near-term for regulatory approval. Any future development options beyond the Proposed Project would require extensive federal, state and local permitting processes and approvals before proceeding, which would be in addition to the initial permits and approvals required for the Proposed Project.

Summary of Key Projected Results 1

Proposed Project :

20 years of open pit mining with a processing rate of 180,000 tons per day ("Tpd")

At forecast long-term [2] metal prices, Internal Rate of Return ("IRR") of 15.8% and Net Present Value at 7% discount rate ("NPV 7 ") of $2.3 billion

At prevailing [3] metal prices, IRR of 23.8% and NPV 7 of $4.8 billion

Life-of-mine ("LOM") metal production for this scenario: 6.4 billion lb copper; 7.3 million oz gold; 300 million lb molybdenum; 37 million oz silver; and 230,000 kg rhenium

Average annual metal production: 320 million lb copper; 363,000 oz gold; 15 million lb molybdenum; 1.8 million oz silver and 12,000 kg rhenium

Expansion Scenarios :

90 to 101 year mine life with a peak processing rate of up to 270,000 Tpd

At forecast long-term metal prices, IRR of 18.2% to 21.5% and NPV 7 of $5.8 to $8.5 billion

At prevailing metal prices, IRR of 25.8% to 29.8% and NPV 7 of $9.9 to $14.0 billion

LOM metal production for these scenarios: 60 billion lb copper; 50 million oz gold; 2.9 billion lb molybdenum; 267 million oz silver; and 2 million kg rhenium

Average annual metal production: 600 million lb copper; 500,000 oz gold; 29 million lb molybdenum; 2.6 million oz silver and 20,000 kg rhenium

Onsite Gold Plant :

Addition of an onsite gold plant at Production Year 5

Proposed Project At forecast long-term metal prices, IRR of 16.5% and NPV 7 of $2.7 billion At prevailing metal prices, IRR of 25.9% and NPV 7 of $5.4 billion LOM gold and silver production for this scenario: 9.0 million oz and 39 million oz, respectively Average annual metal production: 453,000 oz gold and 2 million oz silver

Expansion Scenarios At forecast long-term metal prices, IRR of 18.9% to 22.7% and NPV 7 of $6.7 to $9.8 billion At prevailing metal prices, IRR of 26.3% to 30.8% and NPV 7 of $10.9 to $15.4 billion LOM gold and silver production for these scenarios: 65 million oz and 289 million oz, respectively Average annual metal production: 644,000 to 721,000 oz gold and 3.2 to 2.9 million oz silver



Low-Cost/High-Margin Production:

Proposed Project: average co-product C1 Copper Cost of $1.65/lb CuEq and Gold Cash Cost of $753/oz; average by-product C1 Copper Cost of $0.69/lb and Gold Cash Cost of ($1,147)/oz

Expansion Scenarios: average co-product C1 Copper Cost of $1.53/lb CuEq to $1.56/lb CuEq and Gold Cash Cost of $699/oz to $712/oz; average by-product C1 Copper Cost of $0.53/lb to $0.88/lb and Gold Cash Cost of ($2,013)/oz to ($1,979)/oz

Proposed Project: average annual Net Smelter Return ("NSR") of $1.6 billion and LOM NSR of $32 billion

Expansion Scenarios: average annual NSR of $2.8 to $3.2 billion and LOM NSR of $285 billion

Scheduled for release in October 2021, the 2021 Pebble Project Preliminary Economic Assessment is an update to a Technical Report completed in 2011, which included an economic analysis that was considered out of date mainly due to the revisions to the Pebble Project as submitted in its permit application and amendments. The Proposed Project is similar to the 25-year Investment Decision Case in the 2011 Technical Report, but the current open pit produces less waste rock and therefore occupies a smaller footprint. The Proposed Project does not include the secondary gold plant, which was a component of the 2011 Technical Report, although the 2021 PEA does evaluate a scenario with a gold plant for the Proposed Project. The 2021 PEA advances the waste, tailings, and water management plans, but these are rooted in similar data and concerns as were addressed in the 2011 Technical Report. Both the 2021 PEA and the 2011 Technical Report evaluate similar scale open pit expansions. Furthermore, the transportation and power infrastructure for the two reports are similar in concept.

"The 2021 PEA forecasts robust economics for the Proposed Project and also future potential developments," said Northern Dynasty President and CEO Ron Thiessen. "It is a project that can be designed, built and operated with industry-leading environmental safeguards while generating significant financial returns over multiple decades."

The 2021 PEA has been prepared within the guidelines established by National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") to disclose the current costs estimates and potential financial results for the Pebble Project. The Company is a "foreign issuer" under the U.S. Exchange Act and entitled to file continuous disclosure reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the MJDS between Canada and the United States, and to provide disclosure on our mineral properties, including the Pebble Project, in accordance with NI 43-101 disclosure standards and CIM Definition Standards.

The 2021 PEA is based on an August 2020 mineral resource estimate (see Northern Dynasty news release dated August 20, 2020). The 2021 PEA is preliminary in nature, and includes Inferred mineral resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. There is no assurance that the 2021 PEA will be realized. Mineral Resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability, and there is no assurance that the Pebble Project mineral resources will ever be upgraded to reserves. The 2021 PEA assumes that the Proposed Project will ultimately be able to obtain the required permits from the USACE and state of Alaska authorities to enable development of the Proposed Project. Neither the 2021 PEA, nor the mineral resource estimates on which the 2021 PEA is based, have been adjusted for any risk that the Pebble Partnership may not be able to successfully appeal the record of decision issued by the USACE on November 25, 2020 denying the granting of the required permit under the Clean Water Act. In addition, the 2021 PEA does not account for any additional capital or operating costs that may be necessary to obtain the required federal or state permits, should adjustments to the operating or environmental mitigation plans be required to be made in order to secure the required permits.

The financial potential of the 20-year operation described in the 2021 PEA's Proposed Project analysis is further evaluated through modeling the possible addition of a secondary gold recovery plant in Production Year 5 that uses the most efficient and permittable lixiviants available at the time any related permitting applications are made.

In addition, it evaluates three potential Expansion Scenarios, which could see increased mining and processing rates at the Pebble Project, at three different points in time (increased production starting in years 21, 10 and 5 of the mine life) and at various throughput rates. Expansion Scenarios are modelled on a mine development concept submitted by Northern Dynasty's 100%-owned U.S.-based subsidiary Pebble Limited Partnership ("Pebble Partnership") to the USACE during federal permitting in response to the federal agency's Request for Information ("RFI") about future potential mine development scenarios.

The analysis of specific expansion alternatives included in the 2021 PEA does not reflect a decision by Northern Dynasty or the Pebble Partnership to implement any of these alternatives. Rather, it is an analysis of examples of reasonable alternatives that may be initiated by Pebble Project proponents in the future. The same is true of the identified possible timing of the implementation of each alternative. As noted elsewhere, the implementation of each identified alternative would require extensive permit modifications or the application for and approval of new federal, state and local permits.

"The significant metal production forecasts and robust financial estimates we're releasing today clearly suggest that Pebble is potentially more than just one of the greatest accumulations of copper and other strategic metals ever discovered on American soil," said Mr. Thiessen. "It's also a mineral resource that has the potential to sustain an environmentally sound and financially rewarding mining operation in the near-term, and become one of America's most important metals producers for decades to come."

Thiessen said the Proposed Project evaluated in the 2021 PEA - a project the USACE determined in its Final EIS would "not have measureable effects" on fisheries in Southwest Alaska - incorporates industry-leading engineering and environmental safeguards, and substantial closure funding (>$1.4 billion after 20 years of mining). The USACE issued a negative Record of Decision for the Pebble Project based, in part, on perceived impacts to the fishery that the Company believes were not adequately substantiated.

"We believe the proactive, environmentally-driven risk reduction concepts we've incorporated are setting a new standard for the global mining sector," Thiessen said. "They are costs that must be incurred to develop safely and responsibly in America, and they are fully reflected in the positive economics from the development scenarios we're announcing today."

In addition to raising performance standards for modern mining, the proposed Pebble Project has the potential to make a significant positive contribution towards achieving the United States' economic, manufacturing, military and climate change policy goals.

As the largest undeveloped copper, gold and rhenium resource in the world, Pebble has the potential to produce considerable quantities of critical minerals and metals - including those for which the U.S. currently relies on foreign producers for a significant proportion of its needs. Copper, in particular, is considered to be critical for renewable energy and electrification technologies, including EVs.

"In order to achieve its vision for global leadership in transitioning to a low-carbon future, the U.S. simply must develop its own domestic sources of copper and other critical metals," Thiessen said. "In doing so, it should also demonstrate to the rest of the world what environmentally sound and socially responsible mining looks like. That's precisely what we've undertaken to do at Pebble, and through the project designs evaluated in this PEA."

Project Overview & Forecast Mine Production

The Proposed Project evaluated in the 2021 PEA is a compact, open pit mine feeding a conventional 180,000 Tpd copper flotation concentrator. It would be capable of processing 1.3 billion tons of mineralized material over 20 years of mining at the extremely low strip ratio of 0.12:1, compared to typical porphyry copper projects which range as high as 2:1 to 3:1.

The Proposed Project reflects industry-leading tailings, waste and water management strategies proposed by the Pebble Partnership, as evaluated by the USACE in the Final EIS, as well as power and transportation infrastructure necessary for developing, operating and closing the proposed mine.

The three Expansion Scenarios evaluated in the 2021 PEA are modelled on a concept identified by the Pebble Partnership in an RFI submission to the USACE during the federal permitting process. The Pebble Partnership's response to the USACE RFI is included in the USACE's administrative record for the Pebble EIS.

The first Expansion Scenario evaluated would expand the Pebble process plant from 180,000 to 250,000 Tpd following the 20-year project life envisioned in the Proposed Project, with subsequent mining and processing of an additional 6.3 billion tons of mineralized material. The second and third evaluated Expansion Scenarios would expand the Pebble process plant to 270,000 Tpd in Production Year 10 and Production Year 5 of open pit production under the Proposed Project, respectively.

All three Expansion Scenarios process the same volume of mineralized material over the life of mine - 8.6 billion tons.

Production Summary [4]

Proposed Expansion Scenarios Project Year 21 Year 10 Year 5 Mineralized Material B tons 1.3 8.6 8.6 8.6 Copper Equivalent [5] % 0.58 0.72 0.72 0.72 Copper % 0.29 0.39 0.39 0.39 Gold oz/ton 0.009 0.01 0.01 0.01 Molybdenum ppm 154 208 208 208 Silver oz/ton 0.042 0.047 0.046 0.046 Rhenium ppm 0.28 0.36 0.36 0.36 Waste B tons 0.2 14.4 14.4 14.4 Open Pit Strip Ratio 0.12 1.67 1.67 1.67 Open Pit Life Years 20 78 73 68 Life of Mine Years 20 101 91 90 Metal Production (LOM) Copper M lb 6,400 60,400 60,400 60,400 Gold (in Cu Concentrate) k oz 7,300 50,400 50,500 50,500 Silver (in Cu Concentrate) k oz 37,000 267,000 267,000 267,000 Gold (in Gravity Concentrate) k oz 110 782 783 782 Molybdenum M lb 300 2,900 2,900 2,900 Rhenium k kg 230 2,000 2,000 2,000 Metal Production (Annual [6] ) Copper M lb 320 600 660 670 Copper Concentrate k tons 559 1,000 1,200 1,200 Gold (in Cu Concentrate) k oz 363 500 560 560 Silver (in Cu Concentrate) k oz 1,800 2,600 2,900 3,000 Molybdenum M lb 15 29 32 32 Molybdenum Concentrate k tons 14 26 29 29 Rhenium k kg 12 20 22 22

The 2021 PEA also evaluates the impact of incorporating potential financing strategies - including outsourcing of infrastructure, gold streaming, and an onsite gold production plant - on forecast metal production and financial results for the Proposed Project and the three Expansion Scenarios.

In all examined development alternatives, an onsite gold plant, as modeled, could commence operation in Production Year 5 after acquiring the required permits, and could be expanded with the process plant expansions undertaken at Production Years 10 and 21 for the corresponding Expansion Scenarios. In the case of the Production Year 5 Expansion Scenario, a permitted gold plant could be constructed to match the process plant expansion.

Potential gold plant production is shown below, along with total gold and silver production in concentrates and gold plant dore.

Development Cases with Onsite Gold Production [7]

Proposed Expansion Scenarios Project Year 21 Year 10 Year 5 Gold Plant (LOM) Gold (as Dore) k oz 1,800 14,500 14,500 14,400 Silver (as Dore) k oz 2,600 22,500 22,600 22,500 Total Production (LOM) Gold k oz 9,000 65,000 65,100 64,900 Silver k oz 39,000 289,000 289,000 289,000

"Copper production at Pebble could represent approximately 13-23% of domestic U.S. copper production [8] under the various scenarios," said Ron Thiessen. "In a global context, it could further strengthen the U.S. position as one of the most important copper producers in the world at a time when the U.S. and the world need more copper to meet low carbon energy goals."

Financial Results

The 2021 PEA financial model and results table below use long-term metal prices to forecast key financial performance metrics for the Pebble Project. Forecast financial results utilizing prevailing metal prices are also provided in the section of this release entitled "Summary of Key Projected Results."

Long-term metal prices used are:

Copper: $ 3.50 / lb

Gold: $ 1,600 / oz

Molybdenum: $ 10 / lb

Silver: $ 22 / oz

Rhenium: $ 1,500 / kg

Net Present Value is calculated using a 7% discount rate. By convention, a discount rate of 8% is typically applied to copper and other base metal projects, while 5% is applied to gold and other precious metal projects. Given the polymetallic nature of the Pebble deposit and the large contributions of gold to total project revenues, a 7% blended discount rate has been selected.

For the Proposed Project and the Expansion Scenarios, the 2021 PEA considers the impact of each on financial results of third parties owning and financing the construction of key transportation and power infrastructure, as is commonly the case in Alaska. It is assumed these third parties would either construct the facilities through their own resources or they would be included in overall project construction management. The Pebble Partnership would lease, operate and maintain the facilities as part of overall mine operations, with lease payments set to provide a market rate of return to lessors.

Estimated initial capital cost for these components, including indirect costs, owners' costs and contingency are:

transportation infrastructure (marine terminal/related facilities and access road): $784 million

power supply (mine site power plant and natural gas pipeline): $896 million

Financial results presented in the 2021 PEA and in the results table below also incorporate the impact of gold streaming. The calculation assumes that 30% of gold production at Pebble would be streamed at a delivery price of $500/oz in consideration for an estimated upfront payment of $1.3 billion.

Infrastructure outsourcing, gold streaming and the addition of an onsite gold plant have been examined in the 2021 PEA because Northern Dynasty believes this to be the most likely development outcome for the Pebble Project over time. Northern Dynasty does not have any arrangements or commitments for infrastructure or gold streaming in place, and any arrangements or commitments secured may ultimately be on different terms than those assumed in the 2021 PEA. While transportation and power infrastructure outsourcing agreements have not yet been negotiated for the Pebble Project, it is considered to be a realistic potential outcome.

Gold recovery plants are employed safely at hardrock mines in Alaska today, and have recently been approved for large-scale new mine developments in the State. Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Partnership continue to evaluate multiple technologies to safely employ secondary gold recovery as dore at the Pebble Project. Any future plan to incorporate secondary gold recovery would require extensive federal, state and local permitting processes and approvals before proceeding.

Financial Results Summary

Proposed Expansion Scenarios Project Year 21 Year 10 Year 5 Revenue [9] Annual Gross Revenue $M 1,700 3,100 3,400 3,500 Life of Mine Gross Revenue $M 35,000 312,000 312,000 312,000 Realization Charges Annual Charges $M 150 270 300 310 Life of Mine Charges $M 2,900 28,000 28,000 28,000 Net Smelter Return Annual NSR $M 1,600 2,800 3,100 3,200 Life of Mine NSR $M 32,000 285,000 285,000 285,000 Financial Model Results Infrastructure & Streaming Post Tax IRR % 15.8 18.2 19.5 21.5 Post Tax NPV 7 $M 2,300 5,800 7,400 8,500 Payback Years 4.7 4.4 4.3 5.0 With Gold Plant IRR % 16.5 18.9 20.4 22.7 NPV 7 $M 2,700 6,700 8,400 9,800 Payback Years 4.8 4.5 4.5 5.0

The tables below provide NPV and IRR sensitivity analyses for the Proposed Project to changes in copper and gold prices.

Proposed Project - NPV 7 Sensitivity to metal price changes ($B)

Copper Price ($/lb) 3.00 3.25 3.50 3.75 4.00 Gold Price ($/oz) 1,200 0.5 1.0 1.4 1.9 2.4 1,400 0.9 1.4 1.9 2.3 2.8 1,600 1.4 1.8 2.3 2.7 3.2 1,800 1.8 2.3 2.7 3.2 3.6 2,000 2.2 2.7 3.1 3.6 4.0

Proposed Project - IRR Sensitivity to metal price changes (%)

Copper Price ($/lb) 3.00 3.25 3.50 3.75 4.00 Gold Price ($/oz) 1,200 8.9% 10.6% 12.2% 13.7% 15.1% 1,400 10.7% 12.4% 13.9% 15.4% 16.8% 1,600 12.6% 14.2% 15.8% 17.2% 18.6% 1,800 14.5% 16.2% 17.7% 19.2% 20.5% 2,000 16.6% 18.3% 19.8% 21.2% 22.7%

Cost Estimate

Forecast initial capital costs for the Proposed Project are $6.0 billion, and do not include the projected costs of any of the Expansion Scenarios as these options are evaluated in the 2021 PEA as extensions of the Proposed Project. Additional capital expenditures would be required to facilitate the addition of an onsite gold plant and development of the various Expansion Scenarios.

The $6.0 billion capex estimate below includes $1.7 billion in estimated costs for transportation infrastructure and power supply, which, as described above, are expected to be outsourced.

The 2021 PEA also incorporates annual costs for the closure plan described in the Pebble Project Final EIS. Estimated value of the Pebble closure fund will be $1.4 billion for the Proposed Project and between $3.1 and $3.3 billion for the Expansion Scenarios.

Cost Estimate Summary

Proposed Expansion Scenarios Project Year 21 Year 10 Year 5 Costs Total Initial Capital Cost $M 6,049 6,049 6,049 6,049 Infrastructure Lease $M 1,680 1,680 1,680 1,680 Net Initial Capital Cost $M 4,369 4,369 4,369 4,369 LOM Sustaining Capital Cost $M 1,500 16,400 16,500 16,600 Life of Mine Operating Cost [10] $/ton 10.98 12.46 12.14 12.21 Copper C1 Cost [11] $/lb CuEq 1.65 1.56 1.53 1.54 AISC (Co-Product Basis) $/lb CuEq 1.88 1.76 1.73 1.74 Gold C1 Cost $/oz Au 753 712 699 702 Closure Funding Annual Contribution $M/yr 34 9 10 11 Life of Mine Contribution $M 814 991 969 1,005 Life of Mine Bond Premium $M 159 1,144 783 848 Closure Fund [12] $M 1,412 3,170 3,292 3,124 Life of Mine Taxes [13] Alaska Mining License $M 687 8,203 8,140 8,215 Alaska Royalty $M 304 3,624 3,597 3,630 Alaska Income Tax $M 752 9,122 10,219 10,318 Borough Severance & Tax $M 490 4,343 4,121 4,172 Federal Income Tax $M 1,378 16,932 18,973 19,158 Annual Taxes [14] Alaska Mining License $M 34 72 89 91 Alaska Royalty $M 15 32 40 40 Alaska Income Tax $M 38 90 112 115 Borough Severance & Tax $M 25 38 45 46 Federal Income Tax $M 69 168 208 212

"Pebble has the potential to become an economic engine for Southwest Alaska, a region that is currently one of the most economically challenged in all of the U.S.," said Ron Thiessen. "The ability of Pebble to produce copper at a low cash cost, and generate many millions in annual taxes and other government revenues in Alaska, while setting aside appropriate closure funding, could propel this region of Alaska into prosperity and opportunity. Incorporating the Pebble Performance Fund [15] into the development options will ensure that residents of the region participate directly in the economic outcomes of Pebble development and operations."

Proposed Project Description

The open pit mine defined in the Proposed Project would be capable of extracting 1.3 billion tons of mineralized material grading 0.29% copper, 0.009 oz/ton gold, 154 ppm molybdenum, 0.042 oz/ton silver and 0.28 ppm rhenium, with a notably low strip ratio of 0.12:1. The open pit would employ conventional mining equipment.

The proposed process plant design incorporates a conventional copper flotation circuit. Crushed rock would be conveyed from a location near the pit rim to a crushed material stockpile, which would feed twin grinding circuits - each using a semi-autogenous grinding mill in series with two ball mills. Three stages of flotation would produce two concentrates: copper, with gold and silver credits; and molybdenum, with rhenium credits. Gravity concentrators would produce a gold concentrate. Two tailings streams (bulk and pyritic) would be generated by the plant and pumped to separate tailings storage facilities ("TSF").

Should a secondary gold recovery plant be added in Production Year 5, pyritic tails from the copper-molybdenum cleaner circuit would be re-floated to remove additional gangue and upgrade gold content. The gold-bearing pyrite concentrate from this step would then be re-ground and fed to a closed circuit recovery plant. Gold and silver would be recovered, via processing, to produce dore. Alternate technologies may be employed, pending the results of future testing, permitting, etc.

Tailings embankments would be constructed with non-acid generating and non-metal leaching waste rock from the open pit or a local quarry, with potentially acid generating and metal leaching waste rock co-disposed with pyritic tailings, and ultimately transferred to the open pit at closure.

Copper concentrate would be thickened and pumped to a dewatering facility at the marine terminal. Molybdenum concentrate would be dried and put into bulk sacks, which would be placed into shipping containers for transport to refineries. Gravity gold concentrate would also be placed in sacks and shipped via shipping containers to treatment facilities.

Projected metallurgical results are based on work conducted between 2004 and 2013, including 103 locked cycle tests that define the response for eight geometallurgical domains.

The Pebble Partnership developed the Proposed Project tailings, waste and water management systems in response to environmental and safety concerns raised by project stakeholders. The water balance utilizes a 76-year synthetic record created by matching data at the Pebble Project site to data collected at the nearby Iliamna and Port Alsworth airports. This extensive environmental dataset provides a level of certainty to the water management plan that exceeds that available to most modern mines in the U.S.

Key elements of the proposed Pebble Project's approach to tailings, waste and water management include:

separation of bulk and pyritic tailings, and storage of each in separate TSFs to achieve water management, water quality, stability and closure goals;

the bulk TSF would employ a flow-through design with downstream water collection and treatment. Combined with storage of thickened, benign tailings (~85% of the total), the flow-through design and water management plan would allow the bulk TSF to operate with a minimal water cover pond and very large tailings beaches, which would reduce both the likelihood and consequence of failure and facilitates reclamation and secure closure of the facility;

the pyritic TSF would provide sub-aqueous storage for potentially reactive tailings (~15% of the total) and waste rock within a fully-lined facility during mine operations, with these materials to be transferred to the former open pit for safe, permanent underwater storage at closure. This approach would reduce water quality risks, and eliminate any risk associated with embankment failure post-closure;

conservative design criteria have been applied to all of the Pebble Project's tailings embankments, including buttresses and reduced slope angles, and an overall 'factor of safety' beyond industry norms;

utilizing the 76-year weather record to design a water management system to manage the wettest 20 years in that record on top of very stringent storm event criteria; and

development of a comprehensive approach to water treatment to ensure discharge water would consistently meet stringent state and federal water quality criteria.

Figure 1: Site Layout [16]

The Proposed Project would incorporate significant power and transportation infrastructure. An 82-mile gravel access road would connect mine-site facilities with a marine terminal on Cook Inlet. The marine terminal would include a barge dock for receipt of incoming supplies and fuel, concentrate dewatering, storage and trans-shipment to nearby moored ocean-going freighters, fuel-receiving facilities, and fuel storage.

Concentrate and water return pipelines would be buried in or adjacent to the access road. The terminus of the concentrate pipeline at the marine terminal would receive the pumped slurry, dewater the copper concentrate, and transfer it to a storage building. Copper concentrate would then be transported via conveyor to barges, which in turn would transfer the copper concentrate to ocean-going freighters. The filtrate water would be pumped back to the mine site for re-use.

Figure 2: Marine Terminal Layout

Mine site power demand would be 270 MW. The natural gas-fueled combined cycle power plant to be constructed to provide this power would have a total capacity of 318 MW (to provide N+1 redundancy). A 6 MW natural gas-fired plant would supply power to the marine terminal.

Natural gas would be transferred to the marine terminal and mine site via a pipeline that interconnects with a compression station on an existing pipeline on the Kenai Peninsula. The pipeline would cross Cook Inlet, coming ashore near the marine terminal and from there it would parallel the access road to the mine site. The Cook Inlet crossing to the marine terminal is 78 miles and from the marine terminal to the mine site is 74 miles, for a total combined pipeline length of 152 miles.

Mine Closure

The 2021 PEA includes the closure concepts defined in the Pebble Project EIS. Once mining of the 1.3 billion ton open pit is complete, the first closure phase would commence with removal of the process plant and other redundant facilities. The bulk tailings facility would be drained and materials permitted to consolidate, while pyritic tailings and co-disposed waste rock would be relocated to the open pit. During phase 2, pit dewatering would cease and the water level in the former open pit would be permitted to rise to a pre-determined level to ensure inward flow. During phase 3, the final stages of bulk tailings facility closure, capping and runoff control would be completed. Phase 4 would consist of long-term water management, treatment and monitoring.

Expansion Scenarios

The 2021 PEA evaluates three Expansion Scenarios modelled on a future mine development concept identified by the Pebble Partnership and submitted to the USACE during the EIS process. The concept submitted to the USACE in response to its RFI envisions an expansion of the proposed Pebble mine's process plant to 250,000 Tpd after the Proposed Project was complete, and the processing of an additional 6.3 billion tons of mineralized material. All Expansion Scenarios would need to be based on models that would have to be developed into a plan or project that could be submitted for additional federal, state and local permitting.

The Expansion Scenarios utilize an elevated cutoff grade while the open pit is mined, with lower grade material to be stockpiled and fed to the plant after the open pit has been exhausted. Lower grade stockpiles and waste rock dumps could be located northeast and south of the open pit, along with additional water management and treatment facilities. The power plant would also be expanded to meet an expected 404 MW demand, as would tailings facilities, with additional locations selected to manage additional volumes.

Minor changes would be required to the Proposed Project infrastructure to accommodate the Expansion Scenarios. For instance, expansion would require a compressor station at the marine terminal to increase the capacity of the natural gas pipeline. Additional concentrate production would also require expansion of the concentrate pipeline system.

"Pebble is a unique asset, potentially offering generations of low cost copper produced using industry-leading mining technologies, the result of which would elevate southwestern Alaska economically while helping the U.S. meet its renewable energy and carbon reduction goals," said Ron Thiessen. "There is substantial, untapped potential here."

Qualified Persons

A NI 43-101 Technical Report prepared by the Qualified Persons listed below will be posted on the Company's website (www.northerndynastyminerals.com), as well as on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov) within 45 days. The Qualified Persons have reviewed and approved the scientific, technical, and economic information contained in this news release.

Hassan Ghaffari, P.Eng. of Tetra Tech - Metallurgy

Robin Kalanchey, P.Eng. of Ausenco - Process

Sabry Abdel Hafez, P.Eng. of Tetra Tech - Open Pit Mining

Les Galbraith, P.Eng., P.E. of Knight Piesold - Tailings and water management

James Lang, P.Geo. of J M Lang Professional Consulting Inc. - Geology and exploration*

Eric Titley, P.Geo. of Hunter Dickinson - Resource data base and sampling*

David Gaunt, P.Geo. of Hunter Dickinson - Resource estimation*

Stephen Hodgson, P.Eng. of Hunter Dickinson - Overall project information*

* Non-independent Qualified Person

About Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd.

Northern Dynasty is a mineral exploration and development company based in Vancouver, Canada. Northern Dynasty's principal asset, owned through its wholly owned Alaska-based U.S. subsidiary, Pebble Limited Partnership, is a 100% interest in a contiguous block of 2,402 mineral claims in Southwest Alaska, including the Pebble deposit, located 200 miles from Anchorage and 125 miles from Bristol Bay. The Pebble Partnership is the proponent of the Pebble Project, an initiative to develop one of the world's most important mineral resources.

For further details on Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Project, please visit the Company's website at www.northerndynastyminerals.com or contact Investor services at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1-800-667-2114. Review Canadian public filings at www.sedar.com and U.S. public filings at www.sec.gov.

Ronald W. Thiessen

President & CEO

U.S. Media Contact:

Dan Gagnier, Gagnier Communications (646) 569-5897

Forward-Looking Information and other Cautionary Factors

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and under applicable provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, which address permitting, development and production for the Pebble Project are forward-looking statements. These include statements regarding (i) the mine plan for the Pebble Project, the financial results of the 2021 PEA, including net present value and internal rates of return, and the ability of the Pebble Partnership to secure the financing to proceed with the development of the Pebble Project, including any stream financing and infrastructure outsourcing, (ii) the social integration of the Pebble Project into the Bristol Bay region and benefits for Alaska, (iii) the political and public support for the permitting process, (iv) the ability to successfully appeal the negative Record of Decision and secure the issuance of a positive Record of Decision by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the ability of the Pebble Project to secure all required federal and state permits, (v) the right-sizing and de-risking of the Pebble Project, including any determination to pursue any of the expansion scenarios for the Pebble Project or to incorporate a gold plant, (vi) the design and operating parameters for the Pebble Project mine plan, including projected capital and operating costs, (vii) exploration potential of the Pebble Project, (viii) future demand for copper and gold and the metals prices assumed for the financial projections including the 2021 PEA, (ix) the potential addition of partners in the Pebble Project, and (x) the ability and timetable of NDM to develop the Pebble Project and become a leading copper, gold and molybdenum producer. Although NDM believes the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way be construed as guarantees that the Pebble Project will secure all required government permits, establish the commercial feasibility of the Pebble Project, achieve the required financing or develop the Pebble Project. Such forward-looking statements or information related to this Preliminary Economic Assessment include but are not limited to statements or information with respect to the mined and processed material estimates; the internal rate of return; the annual production; the net present value; the life of mine; the capital costs, operating costs estimated for each of the Proposed Project and three Expansion Scenarios for the Pebble Project; and other costs and payments for the proposed infrastructure for the Pebble Project (including how, when, where and by whom such infrastructure will be constructed or developed); projected metallurgical recoveries; plans for further development, and securing the required permits and licenses for further studies to consider expansion of the operation; and market price of precious and base metals; or other statements that are not statement of fact.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by NDM as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Assumptions used by NDM to develop forward-looking statements include the assumptions that (i) the Pebble Project will obtain all required environmental and other permits and all land use and other licenses without undue delay, (ii) any feasibility studies prepared for the development of the Pebble Project will be positive, (iii) NDM's estimates of mineral resources will not change, and NDM will be successful in converting mineral resources to mineral reserves, (iv) NDM will be able to establish the commercial feasibility of the Pebble Project, and (v) NDM will be able to secure the financing required to develop the Pebble Project. The likelihood of future mining at the Pebble Project is subject to a large number of risks and will require achievement of a number of technical, economic and legal objectives, including (i) obtaining necessary mining and construction permits, licenses and approvals without undue delay, including without delay due to third party opposition or changes in government policies, (ii) finalization of the mine plan for the Pebble Project, (iii) the completion of feasibility studies demonstrating that any Pebble Project mineral resources that can be economically mined, (iv) completion of all necessary engineering for mining and processing facilities, (v) the inability of NDM to secure a partner for the development of the Pebble Project, and (vi) receipt by NDM of significant additional financing to fund these objectives as well as funding mine construction, which financing may not be available to NDM on acceptable terms or on any terms at all. NDM is also subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions, such as the current uncertainties with regard to COVID-19. Investors should also consider the risk factors identified in its Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2020, as filed on SEDAR and included in the Company's annual report on Form 40-F filed by the Company with the SEC on EDGAR.

The National Environment Policy Act Environmental Impact Statement process requires a comprehensive "alternatives assessment" be undertaken to consider a broad range of development alternatives, the final project design and operating parameters for the Pebble Project and associated infrastructure may vary significantly from that currently contemplated. As a result, the Company will continue to consider various development options and no final project design has been selected at this time, and no determination has been made to pursue any of the expansion options identified in the PEA.

For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedar.com.



[1] All cases include infrastructure outsourcing and gold streaming (see p. 6 'Financial Results' for more information) and may require additional permitting [2] Long-term metal prices: copper $3.50/lb; gold $1,600/oz; molybdenum $10/lb; silver $22/oz; rhenium $1,500/kg [3] Prevailing metal prices: copper $4.25/lb; gold $1,800/oz; molybdenum $18/lb; silver $24/oz; rhenium $1,600/kg [4] Unless otherwise noted, units cited are U.S. standard units [5] Copper equivalent (CuEQ) calculations use metal prices: US$1.85/lb for Cu, US$902/oz for Au and US$12.50/lb for Mo, and recoveries: 88% Cu, 75% Au, and 82% Mo [6] Life of mine volumes  life of mine years [7] The gravity gold concentrate is fed to the gold plant when it is operating [8] U.S. Geological Survey, 2021, Mineral commodity summaries 2021: U.S. Geological Survey, 200 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/mcs2021 [9] Revenue values do not include a gold plant contribution [10] Includes cost of infrastructure lease: Proposed Project - $2.80/ton milled

Year 21 Expansion - $0.54/ton milled

Year 10 Expansion - $0.53/ton milled

Year 5 Expansion - $0.53/ton milled [11] C1 costs calculated on co-product basis [12] Maximum value of closure fund during life of mine based on 4% compounding interest [13] Estimated based on current Alaskan statutes [14] Life of mine taxes  life of mine years [15] See Northern Dynasty news release data June 16, 2020 [16] PAG - potentially acid generating SOURCE: Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663286/Northern-Dynasty-Preliminary-Economic-Assessment-for-Alaskas-Pebble-Project-Presents-Robust-Projected-Financial-Results-and-Globally-Significant-Potential-Metal-Production-With-Excellent-Optionality
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Talisker Resources Ltd. (" Talisker " or the " Company ") (TSX:TSK)(OTCQX:TSKFF ) is pleased to announce results from drill hole SB-2021-16A at its 100% owned flagship Bralorne Gold Project. Five diamond drill rigs are currently drilling at Bralorne with a total of 55,500 metres consisting of 95 holes of a planned and fully funded 100,000 metre drill program being completed. A total of 77,680 metres (131 holes) have been drilled by Talisker since the Company initiated drilling at the project in February 2020. Twenty-six holes consisting of 11,987 samples are currently at the assay laboratory and are expected to be received by the Company shortly.

Key Points:

Successful intercept targeting the 53 Vein returning 27.71 g/t gold over 0.9m within 12.46 g/t gold over 2.2m.

A broad mineralized halo surrounded the 53 vein returning 5.64g/t gold over 5.10m.

Previous intercepts in the 53 Vein are highlighted by hole SB-2020-015 (19.95 g/t over .65m), SB-2021-003A (6.01 g/t over 2.9m) and SB-2021-023 (8.08 g/t over 1.4m)

Hole SB-2021-16A increases the number of intercepts for the 53 vein to 11 with a remaining five yet to be drilled this year to complete the resource drillout for this vein.

SB-2021-016A

Bralorne West Block

Complete preliminary results have been received for this hole.

The 53 Vein was intersected at 585.9m depth and produced 27.71 g/t Au over 0.9m within 12.46 g/t gold over 2.2 m.

The 53 vein was intersected in a hydrothermally altered diorite and depicts the classic Bralorne crack and seal vein textures seen throughout the deposit. Crack and seal textures within the 53 vein are depicted as parallel bands that host fine grained pyrite and arsenopyrite. Mariposite is also present within the crack and seal bands. Mariposite is a common hydrothermal mineral indicative of gold bearing fluids within the Bralorne Mine Block. An intermediate to mafic dyke truncates the 53 vein at the footwall.

This hole drilled to a final depth of 602.2m on March 17, 2021.

Figure 1: Photo of the 53 Vein intersected at 585.9m depth.

Table 1: Bralorne Gold Project - Drill Hole SB-2021-16A Diamond Drill Hole Name From (m) To (m) Interval (m) Au (g/t) Zone Method Reported SB-2021-016A 583 584 1 0.38 Vein Halo GO_FAA50V10 SB-2021-016A 584 585.2 1.2 0.32 Vein Halo GO_FAA50V10 SB-2021-016A 585.2 585.9 0.7 0.82 Vein Halo GO_FAA50V10 SB-2021-016A 585.9 586.8 0.9 27.71 53 Vein GO_FAA50V10 SB-2021-016A 586.8 587.4 0.6 0.54 Vein Halo GO_FAA50V10 SB-2021-016A 587.4 588.1 0.7 3.06 Vein Halo GO_FAA50V10 Notes: Diamond drill hole SB-2021-016A has collar orientation of Azimuth 180; Dip -57. True widths are estimated at 40 - 90% of intercept lengths and are based on oriented core measurements where available. Method Reported includes the most up to date information as of the date of this press release.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release relating to the drill results at the Bralorne Gold Project has been approved by Leonardo de Souza (BSc, AusIMM (CP) Membership 224827), Talisker's Vice President, Exploration and Resource Development, who is a "qualified person" within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Talisker Resources Ltd.

Talisker is a junior resource company involved in the exploration of gold projects in British Columbia, Canada. Talisker's projects include the Bralorne Gold Complex, an advanced stage project with significant exploration potential from a historical high-grade producing gold mine as well as its Spences Bridge Project where the Company holds ~85% of the emerging Spences Bridge Gold Belt and several other early-stage Greenfields projects. With its properties comprising 282,403 hectares over 258 claims, three leases and 198 crown grant claims, Talisker is a dominant exploration player in the south-central British Columbia. The Company is well funded to advance its aggressive systematic exploration program at its projects.

For further information please contact Terry Harbort, Chief Executive Officer of Talisker, at terry.harbort@taliskerresources.com .

Related Links

https://taliskerresources.com/

Sample Preparation and QAQC

Drill core at the Bralorne project is drilled in HQ to NQ size ranges (63.5mm and 47.6mm respectively). Drill core samples are minimum 50 cm and maximum 160 cm long along the core axis. Samples are focused on an interval of interest such as a vein or zone of mineralisation. Shoulder samples bracket the interval of interest such that a total sampled core length of not less than 3m both above and below the interval of interest must be assigned. Sample QAQC measures of unmarked certified reference materials (CRMs), blanks, and duplicates are inserted into the sample sequence and make up 9% of the samples submitted to the lab for holes reported in this release. Sample preparation and analyses is carried out by ALS Global in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and SGS Canada in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Drill core sample preparation includes drying in an oven at a maximum temperature of 60C, fine crushing of the sample to at least 70% passing less than 2 mm, sample splitting using a riffle splitter, and pulverizing a 250 g split to at least 85% passing 75 microns (ALS code PREP-31 / SGS code PRP89). Gold in diamond drill core is analysed by fire assay and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) of a 50g sample (ALS code Au-AA26 / SGS code GO_FAA50V10), while multi-element chemistry is analysed by 4- Acid digestion of a 0.25 g sample split with detection by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS) for 48 elements (Ag, Al, As, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Ga, Ge, Hf, In, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nb, Ni, P, Pb, Rb, Re, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Sn, Sr, Ta, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, U, V, W, Y, Zn, Zr). Gold assay technique (ALS code Au-AA26 / SGS code FAA50V10) has an upper detection limit of 100 ppm. Any sample that produces an over-limit gold value via the gold assay technique is sent for gravimetric finish (ALS method Au-GRA22 / SGS method GO_FAG50V) which has an upper detection limit of 1,000 ppm Au. Samples where visible gold was observed are sent directly to screen metallics analysis and all samples that fire assay above 1 ppm Au are re-analysed with method (ALS code Au-SCR24 / SGS code - 6 - GO_FAS50M) which employs a 1kg pulp screened to 100 microns with assay of the entire oversize fraction and duplicate 50g assays on the undersize fraction. Where possible all samples initially sent to screen metallics processing will also be re-run through the fire assay with gravimetric finish provided there is enough material left for further processing.

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on Talisker's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to, among other things, effective time of the rights provided to New Gold under the Investor Rights Agreement, the completion of New Gold's strategic investment; the completion of the Offering, the use of proceeds, the operations of the Company and the timing which could be affected by the current global COVID-19 pandemic. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to Talisker. Although such statements are based on reasonable assumptions of Talisker's management, there can be no assurance that any conclusions or forecasts will prove to be accurate.

While Talisker considers these statements to be reasonable based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include market risks and the demand for securities of the Company, risks inherent in the exploration and development of mineral deposits, including risks relating to changes in project parameters as plans continue to be redefined, risks relating to variations in grade or recovery rates, risks relating to changes in mineral prices and the worldwide demand for and supply of minerals, risks related to increased competition and current global financial conditions and the COVID-19 pandemic, access and supply risks, reliance on key personnel, operational risks, and regulatory risks, including risks relating to the acquisition of the necessary licenses and permits, financing, capitalization and liquidity risks.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is made as of the date hereof, and Talisker is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.

Figure 2: Figure showing the location of SB-2021-016A on the 53 Vein.

Figure 3: Overview map showing Bralorne West, the drill hole included in this press release, major gold-bearing quartz veins (gray) and associated bounding fault structures.

SOURCE: Talisker Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663288/Talisker-Intersects-2771gt-Au-over-09m-within-1246gt-Au-over-22m-at-Bralorne-Gold-Project
Victoria, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Plurilock Security Inc. (TSXV: PLUR) (OTCQB: PLCKF) and related subsidiaries ("Plurilock" or the "Company"), an identity-centric cybersecurity solutions provider for workforces, has received a US$250,000 purchase order from the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) as part of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Solution for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) program, a U.S. Government-Wide Acquisition Contract Vehicle (GWAC).

The NSWC is part of the Naval Sea Systems Command, the largest of the U.S. Navy's five system commands, and plays a crucial role in providing technical solutions to the U.S. Navy.1 The purchase order is part of a new contract relationship between Plurilock and the NSWC within the SEWP V program and the latest in a series of new business for Plurilock's Solutions Division. All contracts and orders signed by Plurilock since April 2021, including the latest order, represent a combined total of US$10.48 million in sales.

According to the purchase order, Plurilock will provide the NSWC with a renewal of their Dell EMC Unity maintenance support for existing hardware.

"At a time when data breaches are on the rise, the U.S. administration continues to allocate resources to improve the nation's cyber resiliency, which creates a high demand for cyber defense products," said Ian L. Paterson, CEO of Plurilock. "As a result, we are pleased to be able to fulfill the stringent security requirements of a prominent U.S. government organization such as the Naval Service Warfare Center."

About SEWP

The SEWP V program, launched by NASA in 2015, is the leading information technology (IT) contract vehicle, with government agencies spending $7.9 billion in fiscal 2020.2 Estimates anticipate that agencies will utilize SEWP V for $8.8 billion in contracted spending in fiscal 2021.3 The contract vehicle provides Plurilock with the opportunity to access downstream customers in the government sector.

About Plurilock

Plurilock provides identity-centric cybersecurity for today's workforces. The Plurilock family of companies enables organizations to operate safely and securely while reducing cybersecurity friction. Plurilock offers world-class IT and cybersecurity solutions through its Solutions Division, paired with proprietary, AI-driven and cloud-friendly security through its Technology Division. Together, the Plurilock family of companies delivers persistent identity assurance with unmatched ease of use.

For more information, visit https://www.plurilock.com or contact:

Ian L. Paterson

Chief Executive Officer

ian@plurilock.com

416.800.1566

Roland Sartorius

Chief Financial Officer

roland.sartorius@plurilock.com

Prit Singh

Investor Relations

prit.singh@plurilock.com

905.510.7636

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") related to future events or Plurilock's future business, operations, and financial performance and condition. Forward-looking statements normally contain words like "will", "intend", "anticipate", "could", "should", "may", "might", "expect", "estimate", "forecast", "plan", "potential", "project", "assume", "contemplate", "believe", "shall", "scheduled", and similar terms. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, actions, or developments and are based on expectations, assumptions, and other factors that management currently believes are relevant, reasonable, and appropriate in the circumstances. Although management believes that the forward-looking statements herein are reasonable, actual results could be substantially different due to the risks and uncertainties associated with and inherent to Plurilock's business. Additional material risks and uncertainties applicable to the forward-looking statements herein include, without limitation, the impact of general economic conditions, the success of the Company in obtaining new or extended contracts or orders; the Company's ability to maintain existing customers or develop new customers; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquisitions of other businesses and/or companies or to realize on the anticipated benefits thereof; and unforeseen events, developments, or factors causing any of the aforesaid expectations, assumptions, and other factors ultimately being inaccurate or irrelevant. This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect the Company's forward-looking statements. Many of these factors are beyond the control of Plurilock. All forward-looking statements included in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as at the date hereof, and Plurilock undertakes no obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. Risks and uncertainties about the Company's business are more fully discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in its most recent Annual Information Form. They are otherwise disclosed in its filings with securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Home/Warfare-Centers https://gov-acq.com/contracts/nasa-sewp-v-contract/ https://about.bgov.com/news/this-is-it-sewp-v-is-the-top-it-vehicle-in-fiscal-2020/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95941
Legal Petition Launched to United Nations Human Rights Committee

Ottawa, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Today, the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP) filed a formal legal petition to the United Nations Human Rights Committee against the current Canadian federal government led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

The formal legal complaint filed this morning with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in Geneva outlines the Canadian government's discrimination against Canada's off-reserve Status and non-Status, Metis, and Inuit Indigenous peoples based on their indigeneity. The legal filing clearly makes the case that the Canadian government's discrimination is based on the inaccurate and stereotypical assumption that Canada's off-reserve Indigenous peoples are less Indigenous than their reserve-based counterparts, and that federal government programs and policy fails to meet their needs.

At the core of the UN legal action is the fact that the Trudeau government denies rights to CAP and its constituents, Canada's off-reserve Indigenous peoples. This was done by failing to involve them adequately, or at all, in consultation or negotiations about self-government, land claims, healthcare, education, infrastructure, or natural resources.

"Canada, under the Trudeau government, calls this discrimination "a distinctions-based approach" towards Indigenous policy-making. This has been in place since approximately 2016. As part of this policy, Canada has chosen only to engage in consultation and negotiation with three "recognized" groups, none of whom represent the interests or voices of all off-reserve Indigenous peoples. In particular, Canada has failed to engage with or meet the needs of its urban Indigenous people," stated CAP National Chief Elmer St. Pierre.

National Vice-Chief Kim Beaudin added, "Indigenous people in Canada still face widespread discrimination and racism in justice, and health care. All this stems from a lack of recognition that should have followed the Supreme Court ruling on the CAP-Daniels legal battle. Prime Minister Trudeau has allowed a discriminatory approach to off-reserve Indigenous peoples that is wrong and is badly hurting grassroots indigenous peoples."

A large majority of Canada's Indigenous people, and a majority of status Indians, live off-reserve. Off-reserve Status and non-Status Indians, Metis and Inuit peoples have faced a history of disadvantage and neglect in Canada. CAP's national leadership was united in the decision to force legal action at the United Nations Human Right's Committee.

The complete legal filing can be accessed here.

-30-

For media interviews please contact:

Jessica Dawson, CAP Executive Manager and Communications

Mobile Phone 613-806-8669 email: J.Dawson@abo-peoples.org

The Congress of Aboriginal Peoples is the national voice representing the interests of Metis, status and non-status Indians, and Southern Inuit Indigenous People living off-reserve. Today, over 70% of Indigenous people live off-reserve.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95967
Deveron expands United States footprint, increasing acres under management by 400,000 annually

Agronomic Solutions 2020 unaudited revenue of US $1.54M and EBITDA of US $430k

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Deveron Corp. (TSXV: FARM) ("Deveron" or the "Company"), a leading agriculture digital services and insights provider in North America, is pleased to announce it has entered into a definitive agreement dated September 8, 2021 (the "Definitive Agreement") to acquire the assets of Agronomic Solutions, LLC. ("Agronomic Solutions"), a leading digital agronomy company, that services Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Minnesota, Illinois and Kansas (the "Acquisition"). Agronomic Solutions provides soil sampling services and digital management across 400,000 acres of customers annually. Agronomic Solutions' unaudited 2020 revenue was US$1.54M and EBITDA of US$430k. This acquisition adds another leading local agriculture service provider in key jurisdictions in the United States, accelerating the Company's growth strategy by increasing acres under management.

Brandy Hodges, an original founder of Agronomic Solutions, commented, "Nick and I are so excited to have Agronomic Solutions join the Deveron family. Deveron's end-to-end soil health solutions and turn-key insights offer agribusinesses the opportunity to drive value through increasing yields while reducing cost. We are excited to utilize these tools to facilitate accelerated growth as Agronomic Solutions continues to expand in our territory."

"Agronomic Solutions is a remarkable leader in soil sampling and soil data analytics in their operating territories. The trust that Brandy and Nick have built with their customer base is very impressive and something we look to build upon as they grow within the company," said David MacMillan, Deveron's President and CEO. "Adding Agronomic Solutions to Deveron's growing footprint is an integral step towards our vision of being North America's leader in soil health data and insights. We look forward to working with Brandy, Nick and the rest of the Agronomic Solutions team to leverage Deveron's end-to-end soil health solutions to increase their influence across Mid-Western United States."

As consideration for the Acquisition, Deveron has agreed to: (i) pay Agronomic Solutions an initial cash payment of US$425,000 upon signing of the Definitive Agreement and an aggregate of US$425,000 on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement; and (ii) issue such number of common shares in the capital of the Company (the "Common Shares") equal to US$141,667 at a price of $0.68 per Common Share upon receipt of the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") and an additional number of Common Shares equal to US$141,667 at a price of $0.68 per Common Share on each of the first two anniversaries of the signing of the Definitive Agreement.

The completion of the transaction remains subject to all regulatory and other approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

About Agronomic Solutions: Agronomic Solutions is a company that specializes in all types of precision ag services. We work with coops, retailers, seed businesses, growers, landowners, and farm managers providing them with support and assistance in choosing which of our services best fit their needs. We do not sell seed, fertilizer or other ag inputs so as to not compete with our customers. Our staff consists of Certified Crop Advisors who are qualified to offer unbiased solutions and services that are tailored to the client.

About Deveron: Deveron is an agriculture technology company that uses data and insights to help farmers and large agriculture enterprises increase yields, reduce costs and improve farm outcomes. The company employs a digital process that leverages data collected on farms across North America to drive unbiased interpretation of production decisions, ultimately recommending how to optimize input use. Our team of agronomists and data scientists build products that recommend ways to better manage fertilizer, seed, fungicide, and other farm inputs. Additionally, we have a national network of data technicians that are deployed to collect various types of farm data, from soil to drone. Our geographic focus is the US and Canada where 1 billion acres are actively farmed annually.

For more information, please visit www.deveronuas.com.

David MacMillan

President & CEO Deveron Corp.

416-367-4571 ext. 221

dmacmillan@deveronuas.com

"Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release."

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of that phrase under Canadian securities laws. Without limitation, statements regarding future plans and objectives of the Company are forward-looking statements that involve various degrees of risk. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current views with respect to possible future events and conditions and, by their nature, are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, both general and specific to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. The following are important factors that could cause the Company's actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements: changes in the world-wide price of agricultural commodities, general market conditions, risks inherent in agriculture, the uncertainty of future profitability and the uncertainty of access to additional capital. Additional information regarding the material factors and assumptions that were applied in making these forward looking statements as well as the various risks and uncertainties we face are described in greater detail in the "Risk Factors" section of our annual and interim Management's Discussion and Analysis of our financial results and other continuous disclosure documents and financial statements we file with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities which are available at www.sedar.com. The Company undertakes no obligation to update this forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. The Company relies on litigation protection for forward looking statements.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95970
Reklaim Allows Consumers to Reclaim Their Data and Place it Under Their Control.

Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Killi Ltd. (TSXV: MYID) (OTCQB: MYIDF) ("Killi," "Reklaim"), a supplier of compliant consumer data, announces it will rebrand as Reklaim to align its brand more directly with its mission of allowing consumers to reklaim their data from those who have been using it without their consent. The Company has updated its marketing materials, including the website, mobile app, and online platform, with its new name and branding. Consumers can visit the new company site at www.Reklaimyours.com to read more about this announcement from CEO & Founder Neil Sweeney. The launch coincides with the Company engaging in a comprehensive marketing and PR campaign to increase awareness of Reklaim with consumers and market participants.

Over the last year, the Company has built the scale and distribution of the platform, which now boasts over 320 million consumer profiles and 14 platform integrations. The company has a growing list of Fortune 500 brands and global agency partners leveraging its compliant data in their marketing efforts. Recently the Company has seen a significant increase in revenue as brands, looking for compliant data due to cookie depreciation and privacy legislation, reenter the market looking for new suppliers to help mitigate these two macro risks. Additional details regarding the company's recent progress can be found in its recent quarterly release and corporate update.

Neil Sweeney, CEO of Reklaim, commented: "We believe we now have the largest source of compliant consumer data in North America, and our efforts to integrate across global platforms and sign-up Fortune 500 brands is starting to drive significant revenue growth. Just this past quarter, we saw our revenues increase by 1,197% on a year-over-year basis. With today's announcement, the Company is looking to more closely align its new approach across the business and ensure consumers better understand how we enable them to take back control of their data.

Reklaim is building a single, simple destination where consumers can access the information companies have about them, correct the record, and then tell companies what they choose to share and what details are off limits. Consumers will then collect a cut of the profits from the information they choose to share.

The Company plans to schedule a special meeting of the shareholders at the beginning of November to approve the name change from Killi to Reklaim officially.

About Killi Ltd

Killi Ltd. (TSXV: MYID) (OTCQB: MYIDF) is driven by consumer data and privacy evolution. Offering compliant, first-party data to Fortune 500 brands, platforms, and data companies, Reklaim allows consumers to visit the platform, confirm their identity, and unveil data that has been collected and sold without the consumer's explicit consent for years. Reklaim enables consumers to take back control of this data by setting up a Reklaim account where, should they choose to, they can be compensated for their data.

For further information, please contact:

Chris Frostad, CFO

1-855-908-DATA

E: investorrelations@killi.io

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the TSX Venture Exchange policies) accept responsibility for this news release's adequacy or accuracy.

Forward-Looking and Other Cautionary Statements

This news release contains projections and forward-looking information that involve various risks and uncertainties regarding future events. Such forward-looking information can include without limitation statements based on current expectations involving several risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of the company's future performance. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. These statements are based upon the current expectations and beliefs of management and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend and undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect, in particular, new information or future events.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95899
TAMPA, Fla., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ABILITY Diabetes Global (Randomized Comparison of Ab lum i nus DES+ Siro li mus-Elu t ing Stents versus Everolimus-Eluting Stents in Coronar y Artery Disease Patients with Diabetes Mellitus Global ) started off with the index patient enrolment on 11thJune 2020 in Italy (at the peak of the 1st wave of COVID-19 pandemic) by P.I. Prof. Antonio Colombo and the pace of enrolment since then has been steady and consistent, with a thousand patients being enrolled in just over a year.

Despite COVID-19 ravaging world over, the pace of enrolment is remarkable considering the fact that the healthcare facilities are occupied in caring for patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Although COVID-19 crisis still looms over us, Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) remains the number one killer and Diabetes continues to be the key comorbidity and contributor to Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

ABILITY Diabetes Global is the world's largest Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) for CAD patients with diabetes as a comorbidity. This RCT measures the safety and efficacy of the Abluminus DES+ which is specially crafted with the patented Envisolution Technology and has proven to be effective in managing the proliferative CAD lesions seen in DM.

With the promising pace of enrolment so far, Concept Medical eagerly looks forward to the completion and results of ABILITY Diabetes Global targeting more than 3000 diabetic patients, across 100 centres, spanning more than 25 countries against the XIENCE EES family (Abbott Cardiovascular).

Concept Medical is delighted to be a part of this achievement which is a direct result of endless support, guidance, and experience of Prof. Roxana Mehran (Chairperson), Prof. Marie-Claude Morice (Medical Director), Prof. Alexandre Abizaid, Prof. Antonio Colombo & Prof. Shigeru Saito (Principal Investigators), and the entire steering committee. Contributing to this achievement are the sites who showed encouragement in participation with the top enrollers so far being - Instituto Dante Pazzanese, Sao Paulo, Brazil (Dr. Chamie), National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh (Prof. Malik), Herzzentrum Segeberger Kliniken, Bad Segberg, Germany (Dr. Allali) and many more. It is the dedication and commitment of all the sites, the site investigator, and technicians for accomplishing this. The credit also extends to Cardiovascular European Research Center (CERC), Mount Sinai and ICAHN School of Medicine for their valuable contribution and constant coordination every day which is of utmost importance.

At this point, when the trial is proceeding with excellent engagement from its investigators, and coordinators. Prof. Mehran expresses her enthusiasm, "I am encouraged by the progress we are making on this largest trial in PCI and Diabetes and incredibly enthusiastic about the future of what we can offer to these complex patients with progress in innovation in PCI."

Prof. Marie-Claude Morice, CEO of CERC expresses her thoughts, "The CERC team is pleased to work hand in hand with the Mount Sinai and the Concept Medical team. We are extremely proud to achieve this important milestone. This study is significant for Diabetic patients with coronary disease who continue to be treated sub optimally with current devices. The 'non-COVID' patients should not be ignored during pandemic period. Thanks to the highly motivated investigators and study coordinators, we were able to obtain consent from the respective ethics committees which enabled us to enroll 1000 patients at such a fast pace."

For a company with the vision of Advancing Innovation, the 1000 patient enrolment is a significant milestone towards a possible breakthrough in the medical device industry. Concept Medical looks to progress rapidly and add one more milestone to its credit.

About Concept Medical Inc (CMI):

CMI is headquartered in Tampa, Florida and has operational offices in The Netherlands, Singapore and Brazil and manufacturing units in India. CMI specializes in developing drug-delivery systems and has unique and patented technology platforms that can be deployed to deliver any drug / pharmaceutical agent across the luminal surfaces of blood vessels.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611910/Concept_Medical_NY_Times_Sqaure.jpg

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1244676/Concept_Medical_Logo.jpg
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Trifecta Gold Ltd. (TSXV:TG) ("Trifecta" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that crews have begun surface exploration at its 100% held Eureka Gold Project ("Eureka" or the "Property") located in the southern portion of Yukon's Klondike Gold Fields. Trifecta is conducting a detailed mapping and CanDig trenching program at Eureka with the goal of refining existing drill targets and defining additional drill targets in anticipation of a 2022 drill program. The Company was awarded a Yukon Mining Exploration Program (YMEP) grant for Target Evaluation at the Eureka project. Under the YMEP the Yukon Government provides successful applicants funding to support mineral exploration activities for 50% of eligible expenditures to a maximum of $40,000.

Eureka straddles the headwaters of two of the most prolific placer creeks in the southern Klondike, Eureka Creek and Black Hills Creek. The Eureka Gold Project has a long history, with the earliest recorded mineral claims in the area dating back to the early 1900s. Placer activity in the area dates back to the discovery of gold in the Klondike in 1896 and is still highly active today. Major placer creeks draining the Property include Eureka Creek in the northern part of the Property, and upper Black Hills Creek and Childs Gulch in the southern part. Reported gold production from 1978-2020 for Eureka Creek is 101,671 ounces while reported production from Black Hills Creek over the same time period is 115,996 ounces1.

Despite being the source of substantial placer gold, hard rock exploration at Eureka has only been conducted intermittently since 1988. This work resulted in the discovery of the Wealth, Childs, Allen, Happy and Ball showings. Grid soil sampling across parts of the Eureka property has outlined extensive gold-in-soil geochemical anomalies which occur in a northerly elongated belt that is 8 km long and up to 2.5 km wide. Trenching and drilling have identified mineralized structures at the Wealth, Childs, Allen and Happy showings, while placer workings exposed a gold-rich vein at the Ball Showing.

Wealth Showing

Located in the center of the Property, bulldozer trenches across the Wealth Showing exposed quartz breccias with gougy alteration halos. The highest gold assays in trenches include: 0.54 g/t gold across 20 m, 0.97 g/t gold over 17.9 m, and 0.75 g/t gold across 10 m. RC drilling within this showing returned encouraging results including: 0.59 g/t gold across 18.3 m and 2.34 g/t gold over 3.05 m.

Childs Showing

Located 2.5 km south of the Wealth Showing, gold-bearing breccia zones exposed in bulldozer trenches returned 0.72 g/t gold over a true thickness of 4 m and 0.48 g/t gold across a true width of 5.5 m. RC drilling at this showing returned 6.62 g/t gold over 1.52 m and 1.19 g/t gold over 1.52 m.

Allen Showing

Located 800 m northeast of the Wealth Showing, a deep trench cut along a north-trending ridge exposed a brecciated and clay-altered zone that is 2 to 5 m wide. A rock sample from the trench returned 15 g/t gold, while chip sampling across an alteration zone in the trench returned 0.44 g/t gold across 4 m.

Happy Showing

Located 1.8 km north of the Wealth Showing, a sample from an isolated diamond drill hole assayed 9.99 g/t gold over 1.5 m and has not been followed up.

Ball Showing

Located in the southeastern part of the soil grid, a gold-rich quartz vein exposed in bedrock by a placer miner assayed 9.8 g/t gold and 238 g/t silver over 0.6 m. This vein has not been drill tested.

Technical information in this news release has been approved by Heather Burrell, P.Geo., a senior geologist with Archer, Cathro & Associates (1981) Limited and qualified person for the purpose of National Instrument 43-101.

The Company recently completed a trenching and mapping program at its Yuge Gold Project in Nevada as announced July 28, 2021. Mineralized structures were exposed and sampled at multiple targets across the project area. Results will be announced once assays are received and interpreted. Trifecta is planning a follow-up RC drill program at Yuge later in 2021.

About Trifecta Gold Ltd.

Trifecta is a Canadian-based precious metals exploration company dedicated to increasing shareholder value through the discovery and development of 100% held gold projects in Yukon and Nevada. Initial drilling at its Yuge Gold Project, located in northern Nevada, has identified multiple broad zones of gold mineralization near historical high grade mines. The Company's Eureka Project hosts an 8 x 2.5 kilometre belt of surface showings and anomalous gold-in-soil that straddle the headwaters of two of the most productive placer creeks in Yukon's southern Klondike Goldfields.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Richard Drechsler"

President and CEO

For further information concerning Trifecta or its various exploration projects please visit www.trifectagold.com or contact:

Corporate Information

Trifecta Gold Ltd.

Richard Drechsler

President and CEO

Tel: (604) 687-2522 ext. 262

This news release may contain forward looking statements based on assumptions and judgments of management regarding future events or results that may prove to be inaccurate as a result of exploration and other risk factors beyond its control, and actual results may differ materially from the expected results.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

SOURCE: Trifecta Gold Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663248/Trifecta-Gold-Announces-Exploration-is-Underway-at-Eureka-Gold-Project-Yukon
20 th significant discovery on Stabroek Block

Exploration successes continue to add to recoverable resource estimate of more than 9 billion barrels of oil equivalent

Liza Unity FPSO set sail from Singapore to Guyana in early September; production startup on track for early 2022

Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES) today announced another oil discovery on the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana at Pinktail. The Pinktail well encountered 220 feet (67 meters) of net pay in high quality oil bearing sandstone reservoir. Pinktail is located approximately 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) southeast of the Liza Phase 1 development, which began production in December 2019, and 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) southeast of Yellowtail-1. Pinktail was drilled in 5,938 feet (1,810 meters) of water by the Noble Sam Croft.

In addition to successful appraisal of the Turbot discovery, the Turbot-2 well encountered 43 feet (13 meters) of net pay in a newly identified, high quality oil bearing sandstone reservoir separate from the 75 feet (23 meters) of high quality, oil bearing sandstone reservoir pay encountered in the original Turbot-1 discovery well. The Turbot-2 discovery is another example of the additional pay found in deeper reservoirs such as those encountered at the previously announced Whiptail discovery. These results will be incorporated into future developments. The Turbot-2 discovery is located approximately 37 miles (60 kilometers) to the southeast of the Liza Phase 1 development and 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) from Turbot-1. Turbot-2 was drilled in 5,790 feet (1,765 meters) of water by the Noble Sam Croft.

CEO John Hess said: "We are happy to announce our 20th significant discovery on the Stabroek Block, which will add to the discovered recoverable resource estimate of more than 9 billion barrels of oil equivalent."

Separately, the Liza Unity floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel set sail from Singapore to Guyana in early September. The FPSO will be utilized for the Liza Phase 2 development, which is expected to begin production in early 2022, with a production capacity of approximately 220,000 gross barrels of oil per day. The Liza Destiny FPSO is currently producing approximately 120,000 gross barrels of oil per day.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres. At least six FPSOs are expected to be online by 2027 with the potential for up to 10 FPSOs on the block to develop the current discovered recoverable resource base. ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

Hess Corporation is a leading global independent energy company engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas. More information on Hess Corporation is available at http://www.hess.com.

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "guidance," "could," "may," "should," "would," "believe," "intend," "project," "plan," "predict," "will," "target" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, which are not historical in nature. Our forward-looking statements may include, without limitation, the expected number, timing and completion of our development projects and estimates of capital and operating costs for these projects; estimates of our crude oil and natural gas resources and levels of production; and our future financial and operational results. Forward-looking statements are based on our current understanding, assessments, estimates and projections of relevant factors and reasonable assumptions about the future. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our historical experience and our current projections or expectations of future results expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. The following important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements: fluctuations in market prices or demand for crude oil, NGLs and natural gas, including due to the global COVID-19 pandemic or the outbreak of any other public health threat, or due to the impact of competing or alternative energy products and political conditions and events; potential failures or delays in increasing oil and gas reserves and in achieving expected production levels, including as a result of unsuccessful exploration activity, drilling risks and unforeseen reservoir conditions; inherent uncertainties in estimating quantities of proved reserves and resources; changes in laws, regulations and governmental actions applicable to our business, including legislative and regulatory initiatives regarding environmental concerns, such as measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions and flaring; the ability of our contractual counterparties to satisfy their obligations to us, including the operation of joint ventures which we may not control; unexpected changes in technical requirements for constructing, modifying or operating exploration and production facilities and/or the inability to timely obtain or maintain necessary permits; potential disruption or interruption of our operations due to catastrophic events, including the global COVID-19 pandemic; and other factors described in Item 1A-Risk Factors in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and any additional risks described in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As and when made, we believe that our forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, given these risks and uncertainties, caution should be taken not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements since such statements speak only as of the date when made and there can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements will occur and actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement we make. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise.

We use certain terms in this release relating to resources other than proved reserves, such as unproved reserves or resources. Investors are urged to consider closely the oil and gas disclosures in Hess Corporation's Form 10-K, File No. 1-1204, available from Hess Corporation, 1185 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036 c/o Corporate Secretary and on our website at www.hess.com. You can also obtain this form from the SEC on the EDGAR system.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005516/en/

Contacts:

Investor Contact:

Jay Wilson

(212) 536-8940

jrwilson@hess.com

Media Contact:

Lorrie Hecker

(212) 536-8250

lhecker@hess.com
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA) and VillageMD announced Wednesday the opening of 18 Village Medical at Walgreens locations in the Phoenix area with plans to open four additional locations by end of this year. Through the Walgreens and VillageMD integrated care model, patients are able to receive comprehensive primary care alongside convenient and cost-effective pharmacy services. In Arizona, chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, lung disease, stroke, diabetes and liver disease are responsible for seven out of 10 deaths among Arizonans each year. Village Medical primary care physicians and Walgreens pharmacists work together to provide care for chronic conditions, as well as everyday illnesses and injuries. Village Medical at Walgreens locations also provide access to COVID-19 testing and vaccinations through the Walgreens pharmacy, in addition to increased access to neighborhood primary care providers, via in-person or telehealth visits. The 22 Village Medical at Walgreens locations in Arizona will create more than 800 jobs within the community. Village Medical will employ nearly 500 STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) well-compensated professionals. Village Medical at Walgreens locations accept a wide range of health insurance options. Patients may access care and support through in-person, at-home and telehealth visits. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
THAT the pre-emption rights granted to Shareholders pursuant to Article 11.3.1 of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company shall not apply in respect of the issue of up to 4,179,475 ordinary shares (representing 10% of the Company's issued ordinary share capital excluding treasury shares on 26 July 2021), issued at a premium to the then prevailing Net Asset Value, such authority to expire at the conclusion of the Company's AGM to be held in 2022 (save that the Company may prior to the expiry of such period make any offer or agreement which would or might require such ordinary shares to be issued (or sold from treasury) after such expiry and the Directors of the Company may issue (or sell from treasury) such ordinary shares in pursuance of any such offer or agreement as if the authority conferred hereby had not expired), unless such resolution is previously revoked by the Company's shareholders by further special resolution.

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - ALX Resources Corp. (TSXV: AL) (FSE: 6LLN) (OTC: ALXEF) ("ALX" or the "Company") pleased to announce that it has entered into an earn-in option agreement with First Mining Gold Corp. (TSX: FF) ("First Mining") on the Company's 100%-owned Vixen Gold Project ("Vixen"). Vixen consists of three sub-projects totaling 10,614 hectares (26,227 acres), Vixen North, Vixen South and Vixen West, located approximately 60 kilometres (37 miles) east of Red Lake, Ontario and near First Mining's Springpole Gold Project ("Springpole"). ALX first acquired and explored Vixen in 2019, and added additional claims acquisitions in 2021.

Details of the Option Agreement

First Mining will have the option to earn an initial 70% interest in Vixen by making cash payments totaling $550,000, the issuance of First Mining common shares totaling $400,000 to ALX, and by incurring at least $500,000 of expenditures at Vixen during the first three years of the earn-in term. Upon completing the first stage of the earn-in, First Mining will hold, through its wholly-owned subsidiary company Gold Canyon Resources Inc. ("Gold Canyon"), a 70% interest in Vixen and will have an additional two-year period to acquire the remaining 30% interest in Vixen by electing to make a $500,000 cash payment to ALX and by the issuance of First Mining common shares to ALX totaling $500,000. In the event that First Mining elects not to complete the second stage of the earn-in, ALX and Gold Canyon will enter into a 70%-30% joint venture agreement with respect to Vixen.

"ALX is pleased that its exploration efforts at Vixen have attracted a well-financed gold developer with a plan to search for new deposits in the Birch-Uchi greenstone belt," said Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman of ALX. "First Mining's multi-million ounce Springpole gold deposit is a focal point for the region with well-established camp facilities already in place, which is a huge logistical advantage for the advancement of Vixen."

The Birch-Uchi greenstone belt is one of the most under-explored and highly prospective gold belts in Canada with district-scale potential. The region hosts several past-producing mines, including the Argosy and Sol d'Or gold mines, with demonstrated historical high-grade gold mining and exploration. First Mining reports that it plans to undertake comprehensive regional exploration over the next twelve months and will be incorporating Vixen into the program. First Mining is focused on advancing and permitting its flagship Springpole project, which hosts the largest known gold deposit in the district and will be a critical strategic asset if more gold resources are found in the region.

Click here for maps and photos of the Vixen Gold Project

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Jody Dahrouge, P.Geo., a Director of ALX, who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101.

About ALX

ALX is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "AL", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "6LLN" and in the United States OTC market under the symbol "ALXEF". ALX's mandate is to provide shareholders with multiple opportunities for discovery by exploring a portfolio of prospective mineral properties, which include gold, nickel, copper, and uranium projects. The Company uses the latest exploration technologies and holds interests in over 200,000 hectares of prospective lands in Saskatchewan and Ontario, stable Canadian jurisdictions that collectively host the highest-grade uranium mines in the world, and offer a significant legacy of production from gold and base metals mines.

ALX owns 100% interests in the Firebird Nickel Project (now under option to Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Inc., who can earn up to an 80% interest), the Flying Vee Nickel/Gold and Sceptre Gold projects, and can earn up to an 80% interest in the Alligator Lake Gold Project, all located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. ALX owns, or can earn, up to 100% interests in the Vixen Gold Project (now under option to First Mining Gold Corp., who can earn up to a 100% interest), the Electra Nickel Project and the Cannon Copper Project located in historic mining districts of Ontario, Canada, and in the Draco VMS Project in Norway. ALX holds interests in a number of uranium exploration properties in northern Saskatchewan, including a 20% interest in the Hook-Carter Uranium Project, located within the prolific Patterson Lake Corridor, with Denison Mines Corp. (80% interest) operating exploration since 2016, a 40% interest in the Black Lake Uranium Project, a joint venture with UEX Corporation and Orano Canada Inc., and a 100% interest in the Gibbons Creek Uranium Project.

For more information about the Company, please visit the ALX corporate website at www.alxresources.com or contact Roger Leschuk, Manager, Corporate Communications at: PH: 604.629.0293 or Toll-Free: 866.629.8368, or by email: rleschuk@alxresources.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of ALX Resources Corp.

"Warren Stanyer"

Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include references that ALX's exploration projects are prospective for minerals, and the Company's plans and those of its exploration partners, including First Mining Gold Corp., plan to undertake exploration activities at ALX's projects. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include that ALX may not be able to fully finance exploration at its projects, including drilling; our initial findings, or those of First Mining Gold Corp. at the Vixen project may prove to be unworthy of further expenditure; commodity prices may not support exploration expenditures at its projects; and economic, competitive, governmental, public health, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and share price. Even if we, or our exploration partners, explore and develop our projects, and even if gold or other metals or minerals are discovered in quantity, our projects may not prove to be commercially viable. Additional risk factors are discussed in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2021, which is available under Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, we will not update these forward-looking statement risk factors.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95942
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Maple Gold Mines Ltd. (TSXV: MGM) (OTCQB: MGMLF) (FSE: M3G) ("Maple Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to report additional results from the final three holes completed in the 531 Zone as well as four regional exploration holes drilled during the 10,217-metre winter drill campaign at the Douay Gold Project ("Douay" or the "Project") in Quebec, Canada. Douay is held by a 50/50 joint venture (the "JV") between the Company and Agnico Eagle Mines Limited.

Highlights:

Drill hole DO-21-310 intersected 28.5 metres (m) of 8.8 g/t gold (Au) (from 295.0 m downhole), including 10.0 m of 12.7 g/t Au (from 301.0 m downhole) and 0.5 m of 31.1 g/t Au (from 303.5 m downhole) within the central portion of the 531 Zone.

DO-21-310 represents by far the best intercept drilled in the 531 Zone to date and the second-best intercept ever at Douay in terms of gold accumulation (grade x thickness).

Drill hole DO-21-307 intersected multiple narrow gold zones between 244.8 m and 475.5 m downhole, including 5.2 m of 2.9 g/t Au (from 244.8 m downhole), and 6.5 m averaging 1.32 g/t Au from 282 m downhole.

Results are expected to increase the overall grade of the current 2019 RPA 531 Zone pit-constrained mineral resource as well as locally upgrade Inferred resource blocks.

Fred Speidel, VP Exploration of Maple Gold, stated: "The results being released today continue a trend of very impressive results at the 531 Zone. Since 2019, our renewed drilling focus in this area has yielded some of the broadest higher-grade (>2.5 g/t Au) intercepts on the entire property, which is both a significant validation of our evolving 3D model and targeting philosophy as well as an indication of the remaining discovery potential at Douay. The JV looks forward to further testing the continuity of the higher-grade mineralized trends and remaining open areas within the 531 Zone during our anticipated Q4 2021 and Q1 2022 drill programs."

The Company has now reported 13 out of a total of 22 holes from the winter 2021 drill campaign. Additional assay results are expected to be released in the coming weeks once they are received and interpreted.

Background and Interpretation of Results

The 531 Zone was initially discovered at Douay in 1986 and mostly drilled in 1992 and 1993 by a previous operator; however, controls on gold mineralization were not well understood at that time. The 531 Zone saw no additional drilling between 2008 and 2019, when Maple Gold drilled hole DO-19-262 to test the down-dip continuity of gold mineralization. DO-19-262 intersected an upper zone of 28 m of 2.6 g/t Au, including 9 m of 4.7 g/t Au, and effectively terminated in a lower zone of 51 m of 2.8 g/t Au, including 16 m of 4.6 g/t Au and 9 m of 4.9 g/t Au (see news from June 5, 2019). In 2020, deepening of DO-19-262 intersected a third zone of 3.5 m of 6.0 g/t Au, including 1.7 m of 11.4 g/t Au (see news from March 16, 2020).

DO-21-310 represents a significantly better intercept than DO-19-262 or 70531 (the 531 Zone discovery hole) in terms of gold accumulation (grade x thickness) and it is expected to both increase the grade of the current mineral resource and locally upgrade Inferred resource blocks. Based on the positive results from winter 2021 and prior drilling in the 531 Zone, a higher-grade northwest-southeast mineralized trend extends over an area that is approximately 500 m by 200 m and, importantly, remains open along strike particularly to the east-southeast (see Figure 1).





Figure 1: Plan map on first vertical derivative airborne magnetics with RPA 2019 conceptual pit outline at surface. Note position of DO-21-310 intercept relative to surrounding intercepts, including DO-19-262. Yellow ellipses indicate areas open to the northwest and southeast.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3077/95974_fed8c8a2e4953be0_001full.jpg

Gold mineralization in the 531 Zone is often associated with sedimentary and exhalative interflow horizons as well as specific fault zones. The latest drill results provide further support for the presence of mineralization plunges proposed previously (see news from June 21, 2021), including a main westerly plunge of gold mineralization with three interpreted easterly sub-orthogonal plunges. These interpreted plunges remain open in multiple directions and represent additional resource expansion potential (see Figure 2).





Figure 2: North-looking longitudinal section (70 m total corridor width) through the 531 Zone showing 2019 RPA resource blocks, mineralization plunges, drill hole traces and the DO-21-310 intercept.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3077/95974_fed8c8a2e4953be0_002full.jpg

Table 1: Additional Winter 2021 Drill Program Highlights

(Holes DO-20-293, DO-21-301, -303, -307, -310, -311, -312)

To view an enhanced version of Table 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/3077/95974_mapletable1.jpg

* All reported assays are uncapped and downhole core lengths. True widths are estimated to be approximately 70-90% of downhole lengths.

In addition to the reported assays from the 531 Zone, results were received for four regional exploration drill holes, including two holes at the P8 Target and two step-out holes at the Northeast IP Target (see Table 1 for full results). It is important to note that while no significant gold intercepts were reported in these holes, both areas showed sporadic anomalous gold (up to 0.36 g/t) over intervals of several meters. Pending multi-element assays will enable further geologic vectoring for gold and base metals mineralization that will guide future drilling in these two prospective areas.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical data contained in this press release was reviewed and prepared under the supervision of Fred Speidel, M. Sc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration of Maple Gold. Mr. Speidel is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Speidel has verified the data related to the exploration information disclosed in this press release through his direct participation in the work.

Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC)

The JV implements strict Quality Assurance ("QA") and Quality Control ("QC") protocols at Douay covering the planning and placing of drill holes in the field; drilling and retrieving the NQ-sized drill core; drillhole surveying; core transport to the Douay Camp; core logging by qualified personnel; sampling and bagging of core for analysis; transport of core from site to the Val-d'Or, QC, SGS laboratory; sample preparation for assaying; and analysis, recording and final statistical vetting of results. For a complete description of protocols, please visit the Company's QA/QC webpage at www.maplegoldmines.com.

About Maple Gold

Maple Gold Mines Ltd. is a Canadian advanced exploration company in a 50/50 joint venture with Agnico Eagle Mines Limited to jointly advance the district-scale Douay and Joutel gold projects located in Quebec's prolific Abitibi Greenstone Gold Belt. The projects benefit from exceptional infrastructure access and boast ~400 km2 of highly prospective ground including an established gold resource at Douay (RPA 2019) that holds significant expansion potential as well as the past-producing Eagle, Telbel and Eagle West mines at Joutel. The Company holds an exclusive option to acquire 100% of the Eagle Mine Property.

The district-scale property also hosts a significant number of regional exploration targets along a 55 km strike length of the Casa Berardi Deformation Zone that have yet to be tested through drilling, making the project ripe for new gold and polymetallic discoveries. The Company is well capitalized and is currently focused on carrying out exploration and drill programs to grow resources and make new discoveries to establish an exciting new gold district in the heart of the Abitibi. For more information, please visit www.maplegoldmines.com.

ON BEHALF OF MAPLE GOLD MINES LTD.

"Matthew Hornor"

B. Matthew Hornor, President & CEO

For Further Information Please Contact:

Mr. Joness Lang

Executive Vice-President

Cell: 778.686.6836

Email: jlang@maplegoldmines.com

Mr. Kiran Patankar

SVP, Growth Strategy

Cell: 604.935.9577

Email: kpatankar@maplegoldmines.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PRESS RELEASE.

Forward Looking Statements:

This press release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation in Canada, including statements about exploration work and results from current and future work programs. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, uncertainties and management's best estimate of future events. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company's expectations and projections. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. For a more detailed discussion of such risks and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, refer to Maple Gold Mines Ltd.'s filings with Canadian securities regulators available on www.sedar.com or the Company's website at www.maplegoldmines.com. The Company does not intend, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to, update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95974
STOCKHOLM, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global, direct selling company within test-based, scientifically proven nutrition is very proud to announce the launch of its business in Taiwan on September 9, 2021 as a strategic part of the company's mission towards global expansion.

After several years of preparing the launch of the Taiwan market and having carried out multiple market establishment processes in recent years, Zinzino has learned the importance of ensuring thorough preparatory work and adapting to the local conditions in each market.

Profitable growth is an important business strategy for the e-commerce-based company. During 2020 the company sales target was exceeded showing excellent sales growth and a strong EBITA performance. Overall sales grew to 1.139 billion SEK from 771 million in 2019.

"We are very pleased with our consistent, strong growth profile as it provides us with economies of scale and increased profitability. This latest launch is yet another logical next step to maintain continued good profits moving forward. Taiwan is a dynamic, mature market for this industry with a substantial part of the population already familiar with and involved in direct sales", says CEO Dag Bergheim Pettersen.

Taiwan is currently ranked number 10 in the world in terms of total sales from direct selling, making this a very financially sound, strategic launch for Zinzino. The company has high growth ambitions and is expecting to reach 1 million customers by the year 2025 and 20 million by 2035. With the launch in Taiwan, Zinzino will be operating in close to 100 markets while keeping its focus on global expansion.

For more information:

Dag Bergheim Pettersen CEO Zinzino +47 (0) 932 25 700, zinzino.com

Fredrik Nielsen CFO Zinzino +46 707 900 174, fredrik.nielsen@zinzino.com

Pictures for publication free of charge:

Marcus Tollbom +46 (0) 70 190 03 12, marcus.tollblom@zinzino.com

Certified Adviser:

Erik Penser Bank Aktiebolag, +46 (0) 8 463 83 00, email: certifiedadviser@penser.se

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/zinzino/r/zinzino-ab--publ--zinzino-announces-launch-of-taiwan-as-next-step-in-the-global-expansion,c3411974

The following files are available for download:
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / 01 Communique Laboratory Inc. (the "Company") (TSXV:ONE)(OTCQB:OONEF) one of the first-to-market, enterprise level cybersecurity providers for the quantum computing era is pleased to report the Company's third quarter 2021 results as it continues to move forward building its business in Asia-Pacific along with an increase in its investment in IronCAP.

Andrew Cheung, CEO of 01 Communique, stated, "We have seen our revenue more than double year to date to $749,324 from $349,827 for nine months ended July 31, 2020. This has allowed us to increase our investment in development and commercialization of IronCAP. As announced on July 28th we completed and released a new version of DoMobile with enhanced security putting us ahead of our competitors. It is now being marketed in Japan by our partner Hitachi Solutions Create, Ltd. We look forward to a continued increase in subscriber numbers and revenue. Throughout the third quarter we also continued with development of our business version of IronCAP X, which we believe to be the world's first quantum-safe email security product effectively preventing email phishing/fraud. We are excited about the prospects this additional revenue generating service presents to us and now with an increase in our sales and marketing team supported by a strong development team we are preparing to launch it later this year in October. As we get closer to launch date, we will provide an update to our shareholders."

Third quarter 2021 results:

The loss for the third quarter was $228,762 (2020 - $39,816) an increase of $188,946 and year to date the loss was $406,278 (2020 - $483,341) a decrease of $77,063. Revenue for the third quarter was $211,831 (2020 - $235,160) a decrease of $23,329 and year to date revenue was $722,324 (2020 - $349,827) an increase of $372,497.

The adjusted loss for the third quarter was $156,135 (2020 - $14,828) an increase of $141,307 and year to date the adjusted loss was $264,233 (2020 - $382,251) a decrease of $118,018. The adjusted loss excludes stock-based compensation and depreciation which are non-cash operating expenses.

During the third quarter 2020 the majority of the revenue recognized was for server licenses, which are a one-time amount. For the third quarter 2021 the majority of revenue is the result of recurring subscription revenue. Over the past year our Asia-Pacific business has seen growth from our remote access service with an increase in both subscriber numbers and recurring revenue. There was an increase in sales and marketing expenses as we added sales and marketing personnel to work with existing partners and build new partnerships with companies for the integration of the IronCAP API with third party applications. Research and development expenses were increased to complete development of DoMobile V4 for the Japanese market which was launched on July 28th and for development of the business version of IronCAP X scheduled for release later this quarter in October. Cash and cash equivalents as at July 31, 2021 were $1,161,785 compared to $914,057 as at April 30, 2020 an increase of $247,728. The Company used $156,135 to fund the adjusted loss for the quarter. The exercise of warrants provided the Company with $311,337 of working capital.

The Company expects to make significant investments in Company infrastructure over the next few years to support the growth of the business including marketing, sales and business development, R&D, finance and business processes.

Conference Call Reminder and Information:

01 Communique will host a live teleconference allowing for questions and answers later today at 10:00AM EST (September 9, 2021) to discuss the Company's results as well as providing an update on the business prospects for IronCAP and IronCAP X.

Browser (please cut-and-paste the following link into your browser):

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83272630612?pwd=ZGRGMU5aWUY0Z3N3SFgvT2s0VlVrZz09

Passcode: ironcap21

Dial-in:

Within Canada (647) 374-4685 or (647) 558-0588

Within the USA (646) 558 8656 or (669) 900 9128

Webinar ID when prompted is 832 7263 0612

Passcode: 724051661

About 01 Communique

Established in 1992, 01 Communique (TSX-V: ONE; OTCQB: OONEF) has always been at the forefront of technology. The Company's cyber security business unit focuses on post-quantum cybersecurity with the development of its IronCAP technology. IronCAP'spatent-pending cryptographic system is an advanced Goppa code-based post-quantum cryptographic technology that can be implemented on classical computer systems as we know them today while at the same time can also safeguard against attacks in the future post-quantum world of computing. The Company's remote access business unit provides its customers with a suite of secure remote access services and products under its I'm InTouch and I'm OnCall product offerings. The remote access offerings are protected in the U.S.A. by its patents #6,928,479 / #6,938,076 / #8,234,701; in Canada by its patents #2,309,398 / #2,524,039 and in Japan by its patent #4,875,094. For more information, visit the Company's web site at www.ironcap.ca and www.01com.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements.

Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking" statements which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. When used in this news release, such statements use such words as "may", "will", "expect", "believe", "plan", "intend", "are confident" and other similar terminology. Such statements include statements regarding the commercial success of IronCAP X, the future of quantum computers and their impact on the Company's product offering, the functionality of the Company's products and the intended product lines for the Company's technology and the potential licensing of the Company's technology. These statements reflect current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the factors discussed under "Risk and Uncertainties" in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis document filed on SEDAR. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes are reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V") nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

INVESTOR CONTACT:

Brian Stringer

Chief Financial Officer

01 Communique

(905) 795-2888 x204

Brian.stringer@01com.com

01 Communique Laboratory Inc.

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

Unaudited

As at July 31, 2021 and October 31, 2020



31-July-21 31-Oct-20 Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,161,785 $ 962,337 Guaranteed investment certificate - 60,000 Accounts receivable 231,469 202,974 Prepaid expenses and other assets 28,234 25,343 1,421,488 1,250,654 Plant and equipment 139,084 35,253 Total assets $ 1,560,572 $ 1,285,907 Liabilities and Shareholders' Deficit Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 168,184 $ 151,111 Deferred revenue 8,665 7,679 Lease liability 42,822 18,704 219,671 177,494 Non-current liabilities Lease liability 77,066 - CEBA loan payable 60,000 - Total liabilities 137,066 177,494 Shareholders' deficit Share capital 43,963,581 43,395,752 Contributed surplus 5,824,110 5,717,636 Warrants 93,532 266,135 Deficit (48,677,388 ) (48,271,110 ) 1,203,835 1,108,413 Total liabilities and shareholders' deficit $ 1,560,572 $ 1,285,907



01 Communique Laboratory Inc.

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income

Unaudited

For the 3 and 9 month periods ended July 31, 2021 and 2020



three months ended nine months ended 31-Jul-21 31-Jul-20 31-Jul-21 31-Jul-20 Revenue $ 211,831 $ 235,160 $ 722,324 $ 349,827 Expenses: Selling, general and administrative 207,909 111,153 570,400 415,724 Research and development 209,766 120,717 485,871 323,215 Withholding taxes 20,660 22,900 70,651 34,172 438,334 254,770 1,126,922 773,111 Loss before accretion on liability component of debenture, interest, and other income (226,503 ) (19,610 ) (404,598 ) (423,284 ) Interest on debenture - 15,000 - 45,000 Accretion on liability portion of debenture - 4,535 - 13,832 Loss before other income and expense (226,503 ) (39,145 ) (404,598 ) (482,116 ) Interest income (2,166 ) - (751 ) 875 Interest expense 1,595 671 2,431 2,100 Loss for the period and comprehensive loss $ (228,762 ) $ (39,816 ) $ (406,278 ) $ (483,341 ) Loss per common share Basic $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) Diluted $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) $ (0.00 ) Weighted average number of common shares Basic 93,278,000 80,985,653 92,246,000 80,243,450 Diluted 93,278,000 80,985,653 92,246,000 80,243,450



01 Communique Laboratory Inc.

SELECTED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Unaudited

For the 3 and 9 month periods ended July 31, 2021 and 2020



three months ended nine months ended 31-Jul-21 31-Jul-20 31-Jul-21 31-Jul-20 Cash provided by (used in): Operating activities: Comprehensive loss for the period $ (228,762 ) $ (39,816 ) $ (406,278 ) $ (483,341 ) Adjustments to reconcile loss for the period to net cash flows from operating activities: Depreciation of property and equipment 1,777 1,388 5,431 4,340 Amortization of right-of-use asset 11,219 11,061 34,298 33,183 Stock-based compensation expense 70,850 23,600 136,614 96,750 Accretion on liability portion of debenture - 4,535 - 13,832 Change in non-cash working capital 96,870 (185,167 ) (13,327 ) (183,340 )

(48,046 ) (185,274 ) (243,262 ) (519,451 ) Financing activities: Exercise of stock options 41,750 - 43,500 - Exercise of warrants 269,587 - 321,587 - Proceeds from private placement - 202,000 - 202,000 Issuance costs on private placement - (10,438 ) - (10,438 ) Proceeds from loan - - 60,000 - Lease payments made (11,338 ) (10,296 ) (33,451 ) (32,226 ) 299,999 181,266 391,636 159,336 Investing activities: Proceeds from guaranteed investment certificate - - 60,000 190,000 Purchase of property and equipment (4,225 ) (266 ) (8,926 ) (2,417 ) (4,225 ) (266 ) 51,074 187,583 Increase in cash and cash equivalents 247,728 (4,274 ) 199,448 (172,532 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 914,057 115,454 962,337 283,712 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 1,161,785 $ 111,180 $ 1,161,785 $ 111,180

#

SOURCE: 01 Communique Laboratory Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663191/01-Communique-Provides-Quarterly-Update-on-Business-Developments-and-Third-Quarter-Fiscal-2021-Results
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Novamind Inc. (CSE:NM)(OTCQB:NVMDF)(FSE:HN2) ("Novamind" or the "Company"), a leading mental health company specialized in psychedelic medicine, is pleased to announce that, effective today, its common shares have been approved for trading under the ticker symbol "NVMDF" on the OTCQB Venture Market (the "OTCQB"), a U.S. trading platform operated by the OTC Markets Group, Inc.

"Listing on the OTCQB is an important achievement for Novamind," said Yaron Conforti, Chief Executive Officer and Director. "We're rapidly scaling access to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and other innovative mental healthcare treatments through our growing network of clinics and research sites. With this listing, we look forward to expanding Novamind's presence in the U.S. and deepening our relationships with a broad base of institutional and retail investors."

Novamind continues to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under its existing symbol "NM" and on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange ("FSE") under its existing symbol "HN2." The Company has also applied for Depository Trust Company (DTC) eligibility and anticipates announcing approval shortly.

About Novamind

Novamind is a leading mental health company enabling safe access to psychedelic medicine through a network of clinics and clinical research sites. Novamind provides ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and other novel treatments through its network of Cedar Psychiatry clinics and operates Cedar Clinical Research, a contract research organization specialized in clinical trials and evidence-based research for psychedelic medicine. Both Cedar Psychiatry and Cedar Clinical Research are wholly owned subsidiaries of Novamind. For more information on how Novamind is enhancing mental wellness and guiding people through their entire healing journey, visit novamind.ca.

About OTC Markets Group

OTC Markets Group Inc. operates the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market and the Pink Open Market for 11,000 U.S. and global securities. Through OTC Link ATS and OTC Link ECN, we connect a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services. We enable investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empower companies to improve the quality of information available for investors. To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

Contact Information

Novamind

Yaron Conforti, CEO and Director

Telephone: +1 (647) 953 9512

Samantha DeLenardo, VP, Communications

Email: media@novamind.ca

Bill Mitoulas, Investor Relations

Email: bill@novamind.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations including the risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable laws.

SOURCE: Novamind Ventures Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663250/Novamind-Uplists-to-OTCQB-Venture-Market
SALT LAKE CITY, UT / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Stella Diagnostics, Inc . (OTC Markets:SLDX) has contributed to the publication of a comprehensive and critical peer-reviewed article in volume 12, no. 4 edition of the Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology (AME Publishing) highlighting the current clinical limitations and future innovations of Barrett's esophagus-related cancer. The first author, Dr. Sumeet Mittal, is the Director of the Esophageal and Foregut program at the Norton Thoracic Institute (Dignity Health) and is a key opinion leader in the management of advanced reflux disease and screening and treatment of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Dr. Mittal has performed hundreds of esophagectomies for the surgical extirpation of esophageal cancer. Dr. Joe Abdo, CEO of Stella Diagnostics, served as second author of the manuscript as he has over a decade of experience researching molecular oncology mechanisms in gastrointestinal diseases. The Senior Vice President of Research & Biotechnology and Professor in Translational Research at Western University of Health Sciences, Dr. Devendra Agrawal, was the senior author and has over 430 peer-reviewed publications as a clinical and translational researcher with a focus on bench-to-bedside projects.

The authors conclude that significant progress has been made regarding genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic approaches for molecular diagnostics of Barrett's-related esophageal cancer; however, these research innovations and findings are yet to be translated into full clinical adoption. The authors also highlight the lack of approved therapeutic modalities that can yield consistent and durable responses in esophageal cancer patients.

"The current standard diagnostic protocols suffer from a lack of interobserver agreement and descriptive molecular assessment tools to inform the efficient cadence of endoscopic screening and the effective use of therapeutic options," said Dr. Abdo. "Further research into novel therapies and the increased use of molecular diagnostics will promote informed decision-making for clinicians to help mitigate the threats presented by Barrett's-related esophageal cancer."

The full article can be accessed ahead-of-print on the journal's website: https://jgo.amegroups.com/article/view/53833/html .

About Stella Diagnostics

Stella Diagnostics, Inc. is a molecular diagnostics-based organization focused on improving patient management strategies for over 67 million people living with severe esophageal disease. StellaDX's clinical assay will offer physicians insight into the molecular properties of their patients' tissue to determine if the disease is stable, progressing or turning cancerous. Using targeted mass spectrometry proteomics, we believe that informing physicians of the expression patterns playing a role in the pathogenesis of GERD, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer early in the treatment plan may extend or save lives. For more information, please visit www.stelladx.com .

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release are "forward looking statements" that are based on Stella Diagnostics' beliefs, assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections. Forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause forecasted results to differ from actual results. Such risks include, but are not limited to market conditions, competitive factors, the ability to complete the proposed transaction and other such related risks. Stella Diagnostics can give no assurances that any projections related to revenues, profit margins or profits will be realized. Statements that are not historical fact, including without limitation statements which are preceded by, followed by or include the words "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "estimates," "may," "should," "intends," or similar expressions are forward looking statements. While Stella Diagnostics believes these assumptions, expectations, estimates, and projections are reasonable, such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond our control and therefore, actual results may differ materially. Stella Diagnostics believes that many of the risks detailed here are part of doing business in the industry in which we would operate and compete. Forward looking statements only speak as of the date hereof and we do not undertake and expressly disclaim any obligation to update or release any revisions to any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law. While we believe the information used in this press release to be reliable, its accuracy has not been independently verified and cannot be guaranteed. Stella Diagnostics can give no assurances that any projections related to revenues, profit margins or profits will be realized.

Investors and Media Contact:

Stella Diagnostics, Inc.

Email: info@stelladx.com

Phone: 201-381-1474

SOURCE: Stella Diagnostics, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663329/Stella-Diagnostics-and-Collaborators-Publish-Peer-Reviewed-Article-Highlighting-Current-Limitations-and-Future-Innovations-for-Barretts-Esophagus-Related-Cancer
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Whitehorse Gold Corp. (TSXV: WHG) ("Whitehorse Gold" or the "Company") announces initial 2021 drill program results from its wholly-owned Skukum Gold Project (the "Project") located in southern Yukon.

Drill Hole Highlights:

Initial drilling on the Skukum Creek deposit has returned up to 6.2 metres of 8.6 g/t AuEQ (2.5 g/t Au and 431.8 g/t Ag), including 2.2 metres of 22.1 g/t AuEQ (6.1 g/t Au and 1,142.0 g/t Ag), in hole SC21-008

Hole SC21-005 intersected 5.5 metres of 8.3 g/t AuEQ (4.3 g/t Au and 279.9 g/t Ag), including 3.5 metres of 11.0 g/t AuEQ (5.7 g/t Au and 381.9 g/t Ag)

Hole SC21-009 intersected 2.3 metres of 16.5 g/t AuEQ (4.3 g/t Au and 864.4 g/t Ag), including 1.31 metres of 27.1 g/t AuEQ (7.1 g/t Au and 1,420.0 g/t Ag)

Three drill rigs are currently testing Skukum Creek and Mt. Skukum deposits

These drill holes (Table 1) focused on filling gaps larger than approximately 50-60 metres between historical drill hole intercepts on the Rainbow Zone (Figure 1) at the Skukum Creek deposit. The results demonstrate continuity of the higher-grade gold and silver mineralization and will be used to upgrade resources.

"Our first 2021 drill results successfully confirmed continuity of the gold mineralization in the upper portion of the Rainbow gold zone along with substantial silver grades, which greatly improves our confidence in the resource and expected future economics of the Project," stated Kevin Weston, CEO of Whitehorse Gold. "With the three drill rigs testing our Skukum Creek, Goddell and Mt. Skukum deposits, we anticipate a continual flow of results throughout the rest of this year and are excited at the potential to advance the Project towards a development path."

Table 1: Assay results

Hole ID 1 From

(m) To

(m) Interval (m) 2,3 Au

(g/t) Ag

(g/t) AuEQ (g/t) 4,5 Pb

(%) Zn

(%) Zone SC21-003 28.96 29.57 0.61 2.7 2490.0 37.7 0.26 0.09 Rainbow Zone SC21-004 96.00 105.48 9.48 1.4 82.8 2.5 0.3 0.46 Incl. 102.21 103.00 0.79 12.5 506.4 19.6 0.99 1.21 SC21-005 79.65 85.15 5.50 4.3 279.9 8.3 0.56 0.83 Incl. 79.65 83.15 3.50 5.7 381.9 11.0 0.73 0.97 88.18 88.75 0.57 3.9 203.0 6.7 0.59 1.59 SC21-006 78.64 87.57 8.93 2.5 121.0 4.2 0.47 0.82 Incl. 78.64 83.04 4.40 3.8 185.6 6.4 0.69 1.09 Incl. 79.67 81.55 1.88 4.6 184.2 7.2 0.64 1.18 SC21-008 146.23 152.4 6.17 2.5 431.8 8.6 1.08 0.64 Incl. 146.23 148.44 2.21 6.1 1142.0 22.1 2.8 1.32 SC21-009 124.75 127.00 2.25 4.3 864.4 16.5 1.5 1.83 Incl. 125.69 127.00 1.31 7.1 1420.0 27.1 2.43 2.98 133.56 139.88 6.32 1.3 44.2 1.9 0.14 0.2 Incl. 133.56 134.63 1.07 4.7 174.0 7.1 0.33 0.54

Notes:

Drill location, elevation, azimuth and dip of drill holes provided in Table 2 below. Length and specific gravity weighted composites. True drill interval lengths are estimated at 70-90% of drilled intervals. Formula for AuEQ calculation = Au+(Ag x 0.0141); based on a Long-term Au consensus median price of US$1,600/oz, a Long-term Ag consensus median price of US$22.50/oz and Au:Ag ratio of 71.11. Assumptions: AuEQ calculation utilizes contained Au and Ag and assumes 100% recovery. Long-term street consensus commodity prices compiled by BMO Capital Markets.

Whitehorse Gold intends on releasing additional exploration drill results over the forthcoming months.

Table 2: Drill hole details (location, elevation, azimuth and dip) for holes presented in Table 1.

Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation Total Depth Collar Azimuth Collar Dip SC21-003 478100 6671140 1389 653.8 277.0 -57.0 SC21-004 477901 6671336 1388 130.2 280.9 -45.2 SC21-005 477901 6671336 1388 110.9 299.8 -48.2 SC21-006 477901 6671336 1388 104.7 331.8 -53.3 SC21-008 477920 6671322 1389 294.3 278.4 -48.7 SC21-009 477920 6671322 1389 170.0 289.1 -51.0

Target Generation

The Company has completed a 1,900-line-km airborne geophysical survey (comprised of magnetic, radiometric, and Very Low Frequency surveys) over the entire 170-square-km Project (see Figure 2). Results of the geophysics is currently undergoing interpretation and is expected to provide data for new target generation.

The 2021 surface exploration, mapping and sampling program has also been completed and successfully identified new zones and occurrences of gold mineralization. Results are forthcoming and will be released once received from the assay lab.

Geologic, geochemical and alteration data when combined with the airborne magnetic/radiometric/VLF survey is expected to develop a ranked pipeline of targets. Results of the 2021 field work will guide exploration programs at the Project for 2022 and beyond.





Figure 1: Skukum Creek Deposit long section looking NW (330) showing drill hole traces and intercepts.

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7553/95983_whg.ht4.jpg





Figure 2: Project overview map highlighting the three main deposits and the camp-mill facility

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7553/95983_whg.ht2.jpg





Quality Assurance and Quality Control

Drill core from the Company's 2021 exploration program was logged and sampled in a secure core storage facility located at the Project site. Core samples from the 2021 program were cut in half, using a diamond cutting saw. Drill core and surface samples were sent to ALS Laboratories, which is independent of the Company. Sample preparation was performed at the ALS Laboratory in Whitehorse, YT, followed by analysis at the ALS Laboratory in North Vancouver, BC. ALS is an accredited mineral analysis laboratory. All samples were analysed for gold using standard Fire Assay-AA techniques. Samples returning over 10.0 g/t gold were analysed utilizing standard Fire Assay-Gravimetric methods. Samples were also analyzed for a 48 multielement geochemical suite by ICP-MS with a four-acid digestion. Certified gold reference standards, blanks, field duplicates and coarse reject duplicates were routinely inserted into the sample stream, as part of Whitehorse Gold's quality control/quality assurance program.

Qualified Persons

The technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Tim Kingsley, Vice President of Exploration of Whitehorse Gold and Certified Professional Geologist (CPG-11538) with the American Institute of Professional Geologists, a Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure of Mineral Projects.

Investor Relations Program

The Company also announces that it has retained Jefferson Financial, Inc. ("Jefferson Financial") to assist with investor outreach and general market awareness. Jefferson Financial produces investment-oriented newsletters, special reports and events including the New Orleans Investment Conference.

The Company engaged Jefferson Financial for the distribution of an article written by them in their Golden Opportunities e-letter for the fee of USD$7,500. The Company may from time to time engage Jefferson Financial to distribute subsequent articles for similar fees. The Company and Jefferson Financial are at arm's length and, to the Company's knowledge, Jefferson Financial does not have any direct interest in the Company or its securities.

ABOUT WHITEHORSE GOLD CORP.

Whitehorse Gold is a responsible mineral exploration and development company focused on its 170-square-km Project located in southern Yukon, approximately 55 km south-southwest of Whitehorse. The Project hosts the advanced-stage Skukum Creek and Goddell deposits, and the formerly producing Mt. Skukum high-grade gold mine, all of which remain open for expansion, plus additional untested mineralized occurrences. Project infrastructure includes an all-weather access road, a 50-person camp, approximately 6 kms of underground development, and a previously operating 300-tpd mill and associated support facilities. Underground operations by a previous operator at Mt. Skukum from 1986 to 1988 saw 233,400 tons of ore mined and processed to recover approximately 79,750 ounces of gold.

On Behalf of Whitehorse Gold Corp.

signed "Kevin Weston"

Kevin Weston, CEO & Director

For further information please contact:

Steve Stakiw, Vice President - Corporate Affairs

Phone: 1-604-336-5919

Email: info@whitehorsegold.ca

www.whitehorsegold.ca

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included in this news release, including, without limitation, future plans with respect to the Project, including the 2021 work program and resource upgrade and expansion plans; the success of exploration activities, development potential at the Project, the future economics of the Project, and other future plans, objectives or expectations of the Company are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by words or phrases such as "expects", "is expected", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategies", "targets", "goals", "forecasts", "objectives", "budgets", "schedules", "potential" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions, assumptions, factors and estimates considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. The opinions, assumptions, factors and estimates which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to: that the Company will be able to carry on current and future operations as planned; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; that market fundamentals will result in sustained precious metals demand and prices; that there are no significant disruptions affecting operations, including labour disruptions, supply disruptions, power disruptions, security disruptions, damage to or loss of equipment, whether due to flooding, political changes, title issues, intervention by local landowners, environmental concerns, pandemics (including COVID-19) or otherwise; that the Company will be able to obtain and maintain governmental and regulatory approvals, permits and licenses in connection with its current and planned operations, development and exploration activities; that the Company will be able to obtain / maintain social licence at the Project; that the Company will be able to meet its current and future obligations; that the Company will be able to comply with environmental, health and safety laws; that the Company will be able to secure financing on suitable terms; the assumptions underlying mineral resource estimates and the realization of such estimates; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others: social and economic impacts of COVID-19; actual exploration results; changes in project parameters and outcomes as plans continue to be refined; results of future exploration activities and resource estimates; future metal prices; availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms; general economic, market or business conditions; risks associated with community relations and corporate social responsibility; uninsured risks; regulatory changes; defects in title; availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis; accidents or equipment breakdowns; delays in receiving government and regulatory approvals; unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same; and other exploration risks or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. All of the Company's Canadian public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedar.com and readers are urged to review these materials. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

The Company undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements in this news release or incorporated by reference herein, except as otherwise required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95983
Motagon Cannabis, a subsidiary of international pharma company HEATON Group a.s., brings GG4 (Gorilla Glue 4), a high-THC medical cannabis flower, to patients in Czechia.

Prague, Czechia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Motagon Cannabis ("Motagon"), a subsidiary of international pharmaceutical company HEATON Group a.s. ("Heaton"), successfully completed its import of medical cannabis flower to Prague, Czechia, after receiving approval from Czechia's State Institute for Drug Control (SUKL) and the Ministry of Health.

Motagon received its high-THC GG4 (Gorilla Glue 4) dried flower at its EU-GMP facility located in the heart of Prague. "This is a momentous occasion for Motagon, the HEATON Group and Czechia's patient population suffering from issues such as chronic pain, sleep disorders and anxiety" said Jaromir Fric, Jr, the Executive Director of Heaton and Chairman of Motagon. "With Heaton's existing facilities, experienced pharmaceutical sales team and international distribution infrastructure, this supports our mission of placing innovative cannabinoid-based medicines in the hands of patients who need them most" added Jaromir. Heaton was founded by Jaromir's father in 2002 and sells its prescription pharmaceutical and medical devices in more than 20 countries around the world.





Motagon's Gorilla Glue (GG4) medical cannabis flower for patients in Czechia

Europe is a unique medical cannabis frontier with immense potential, and big advantages for existing companies having operating experience in Europe's national-level pharma and regulatory framework. "Medical Cannabis is an important player in the emerging evidence-based personalised health market. In practice, selling cannabis-based products in Europe requires inherent pharmaceutical capabilities with the caveat of a narcotics classification" said Jan Mehner, Motagon's new CEO. "Motagon has the infrastructure and medical expertise to supply and promote innovative and efficacious cannabis products throughout the EU".

Motagon's product selection and positioning is in-part driven by artificial intelligence (AI) technology, exploiting access to large real-world datasets of patient reviews, and deriving insights on cannabis strain performance. "We have been working with KOMAND Consulting and applying their AI technology, SALIENT iQ, to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of over 3000 cannabis strains on medical indications" says Jan. Scientific research on cannabis is still in its infancy and SALIENT iQ helps fill knowledge gaps in a more efficient and comprehensive manner than competitors. "Our objective is to help Motagon transfer knowledge and products from North America to the European market" says Toronto-based Nasos Makriyiannis, the founder and managing partner of KOMAND Consulting.

About Motagon Cannabis

Motagon is the cannabis subsidiary of international Czech pharmaceutical company, HEATON Group, and a joint venture with Jelinda (Germany) and KOMAND Consulting (Canada). Motagon excellence is predicated on three facets:

North American cannabis expertise via KOMAND Consulting in Toronto.

EU-wide healthcare business development excellence via Jelinda in Hamburg.

Established international pharmaceutical sales and marketing capabilities via Heaton in Prague and through subsidiaries in several EU member states.

With team members located in North America, Motagon brings cutting edge products and expertise from the United States and Canada, two of the world's most developed Cannabis markets, to the European continent. Motagon uses proprietary AI technologies to process large amounts of real-world data and help physicians make informed decisions that best serve their patients and improve health outcomes.

Please visit www.motagon.eu for more information.

Contact

For general inquiries please contact info@motagon.eu or visit www.motagon.eu.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95882
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - SoLVBL Solutions Inc. (CSE: SOLV) ("SoLVBL" or the "Company"), an innovative cybersecurity company that provides proprietary data authentication SaaS that uniquely features advanced cryptography for data authentication, announced that the Company has completed independent test validations of its cryptographic cybersecurity product, Q by SoLVBLTM.

The tests performed on Q by SoLVBLTM, the Company's flagship cryptographic cybersecurity product, confirms the system to be existentially unforgeable. The tests were performed by Sonam Devgan Kaul, Ph.D., an independent cryptography expert based in Toronto.

Ms. Kaul is an Assistant Professor of the Mathematical and Computational Sciences Department at University of Toronto, and a Post-doctoral Cryptography Researcher at Department of ECE at University of Toronto. She was previously the Academic Coordinator at the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences. Ms. Kaul's Ph.D. was completed in Cryptography. Ms. Kaul undertook an independent, extensive, in-depth and thorough review of Q by SoLVBLTM. The Company is pleased to announce that Ms. Kaul's findings have verified the system to be existentially unforgeable and the assurances the Company claims -namely: Identity, integrity, completeness, portability, attribution and confidentiality have all been demonstrated, mathematically and cryptographically to be proven and true.

"We are delighted with the outcome of Ms. Kaul's analysis. This is one more step - and an incredibly significant step - in establishing Q by SoLVBLTM's credentials. Any organisation with data worth forging should be using Q by SoLVBLTM, " said Ray Pomroy, CEO of SoLVBL solutions Inc.

"This is a key further development in SoLVBL's journey to being a highly successful business in today's ever changing technology world," Mr. Pomroy noted. He added, "SoLVBL has successfully raised $4 million recently, which will fund its ambitious growth plans. The Company is actively adding to its talent pool as it continues to bolster its team. Ms. Kaul's analysis demonstrates Q by SoLVBLTM's pedigree in providing both a unique solution to data authentication and cyber security. SoLVBL believes, if you have data worth forging, you should be using Q by SoLVBLTM. We look forward to more announcements as we progress on our business plan through to the rest of the year."

SoLVBL Solutions Inc.

SoLVBL is an innovative cybersecurity company. The Company's mission is to empower better, faster decisions by developing a universal standard for establishing digital record authenticity. The lead product, Q by SoLVBL, is a proprietary software of the Company, designed to be easy to use and adopt, economically priced and provide digital record authentication at very high speed. Q by SoLVBL allows organizations to establish trust in their data. The Company is currently pursuing the following verticals: chain of custody for digital evidence; including, NG-911, data used in the financial sector, medical applications and critical IoT infrastructures.

For Further Information, Contact:

SoLVBL Solutions Inc.

Raymond Pomroy, CEO

100 King Street West, Suite 5700

Toronto, ON, M5X 1C7

E: Ray.Pomroy@SoLVBL.com

T: 905.510.7982

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information

The CSE has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

NEITHER THE CSE NOR ITS MARKET REGULATOR (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE CSE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE. CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION: This news release contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business objectives, including, the implementation and success of Q by SoLVBLTM, and expectations for other economic, business and/or competitive, factors. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, SoLVBL assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities described herein in the United States. The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities law and may not be offered or sold in the "United States", as such term is defined in Regulation S promulgated under the U.S. Securities Act, unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95995
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Metals Creek Resources Corp. (TSXV: MEK) (OTCQB: MCREF) (FRA:M1C1) (the "Company" or Metals Creek) is pleased to announce the Company has commenced mobilizing drill equipment to the Ogden Gold Project in Timmins, Ontario. The Ogden Gold Project is a 50/50 Joint Venture with Newmont Corporation ("Newmont"), with the Company serving as the operator.

The Thomas Ogden Zone (TOG) will be the main focus of the upcoming drill program with emphasis on further defining the orientation of high-grade cross cutting veins and mineralization as well as determining the spacial association of high-grade mineralization associated with cross-cutting structures and veins within these fold structures. Oriented core will be utilized. Diamond Drilling is expected to commence as soon as practical.

Line cutting is ongoing and ground geophysics consisting of Deep Section Induced Polarization (IP) is anticipated to take place during the latter portion of September over Naybob South, Thomas Ogden (TOG) and Thomas Ogden West (TOGW) to help further define the down plunge orientation of the fold axis and mineralization at depth of both TOG and TOGW as well as further defining the plunge direction of known sulfide mineralization within Naybob South below existing drill data.

Spatiotemporal Geochemical Hydrocarbon (SGH) sampling has now been completed over the entire property. This SGH sampling program (Phase 2) was designed to fill in gaps between TOG and South Zone, as well additional sampling to both the eastern and western boundaries. SGH can greatly expedite the target generation process, potentially resulting in substantial cost savings when evaluating and ultimately delineating these potential targets with the extensive overburden coverage on the property.

Alexander (Sandy) Stares states, "With a flurry of exploration activity underway in the Timmins area, we are excited to restart exploration at the Ogden Gold Project. With secured funding from Crescat Capital, we have the required capital to kick start exploration in the Timmins Camp. The Ogden Project is strategically located and consists of 8 km of highly prospective stratigraphy within the prolific Porcupine-Destor Fault with associated high-grade gold mineralization."

About the Ogden Gold Project

Work commenced on the property by Metals Creek in 2009 and has consisted of ground geophysical surveys which include magnetics and induced polarization (IP), down-hole IP, as well as 137 diamond drill holes totaling 35,830 meters.

The Ogden Gold Project covers 8 kilometers of the Porcupine Destor Fault, which is the key conduit for gold mineralization in the Timmins Gold camp. (See Figure 1 Timmins Gold Camp) There are five known gold zones on the property, with TOG and Naybob South seeing the majority of the work. Drilling in 2012 and 2013 on TOG greatly enhanced the company's understanding of the geological and structural complexity within TOG and its control on gold mineralization. Alteration within these gold bearing systems consists of strong albitization and silicification, with varying amounts of pyrite, arsenopyrite mineralization and commonly with associated visible gold. Significant folding is present with enhanced gold grades along the fold hinges. These fold hinges have a gentle plunge to the east. Select results from these drill programs include:

210.19g/t grams per ton (g/t) gold (Au) over 12.53 meters (m) including 2732.64g/t Au over 0.93m (TOG-12-25). (see Figure 2)

49.96g/t Au over 9.0m including 434.77g/t Au over 1.0m (TOG-13-27)

6.08g/t Au over 21.85m including 11.76g/t Au over 9.00m (TOG-12-03)

9.46g/t Au over 18.55m and 6.17g/t Au over 6.62m (TOG-12-07)

Upon performing a re-interpretation of the ground geophysical data in conjunction with applying known structural trends known for hosting gold mineralization in the Timmins Gold Camp, a new discovery (TOG West), 1 kilometer west of TOG resulted in an intercept of 5.20g/t Au over 2.90m. More importantly, this intercept resulted in the identification of a second fold structure parallel to that of TOG.

The Naybob South zone is described as a zone of intensely albitized mafic/ultramafics with abundant pyrite and arsenopyrite. Drill intercepts for South Zone include;

9.24g/t Au over 6.61m (OG09-012)

6.21g/t Au over 6.63m (OG11-002) with both being within 100m of surface.

Newmont's Dome mill is located approximately 8 km east of the property.

All above mentioned drill intercepts are within 150m of surface.

Michael MacIsaac, P. Geo and VP Exploration for the Company and a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101, is responsible for this release, and supervised the preparation of the information forming the basis for this release.

About Metals Creek Resources Corp.

Metals Creek Resources Corp. is a junior exploration company incorporated under the laws of the Province of Ontario, is a reporting issuer in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, and has its common shares listed for trading on the Exchange under the symbol "MEK". Metals Creek has earned a 50% interest in the Ogden Gold Property from Newmont, including the past producing Naybob Gold mine, located 6 km south of Timmins, Ontario and has an 8 km strike length of the prolific Porcupine-Destor Fault (P-DF). In addition, Metals Creek has signed an agreement with Newmont, under which Metals Creek can earn a 100% interest in the past producing Dona Lake Gold Project in the Pickle Lake Mining District of Ontario.

Metals Creek also has multiple quality projects available for option in Ontario and Newfoundland which can be viewed on the Company's website. Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact the Company at the number below.

Additional information concerning the Company is contained in documents filed by the Company with securities regulators, available under its profile at www.sedar.com.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Alexander (Sandy) Stares, President and CEO

Metals Creek Resources Corp

telephone: (709)-256-6060

fax: (709)-256-6061

email: astares@metalscreek.com

www.MetalsCreek.com

Twitter.com/MetalsCreekRes

Facebook.com/MetalsCreek





Figure 1 - Timmins Gold camp, Metals Creek Property in Blue.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/943/95943_7de7d6c564e6c8e4_002full.jpg





Figure 2 - TOG 12-25

210 g/t Au over 12.5 meters



To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/943/95943_7de7d6c564e6c8e4_003full.jpg

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95943
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Goldshore Resources Inc. (TSXV: GSHR) (OTCQB: GSHRF) (FWB: 8X00) ("Goldshore" or the "Company"), is pleased to announce that it has received the initial magnetic images from the heli-borne Versatile Time-Domain Electromagnetic (VTEM Plus) and Horizontal Magnetic Gradiometer geophysical survey conducted by Geotech Ltd. ("Geotech") on the Moss Lake Gold Project located in northwest Ontario (Figure 1).

Highlights:

Geotech's processed magnetic images highlight the regional-scale attenuation, asymmetric boudinage and anastomosing character of shear zones, which are conducive for similar-scale fluid flow systems and speak to the prospectivity for mineralization in the district;

The data allows the mapping of tightly folded stratigraphic units and intrusion margins, which correlate with gold mineralization and provide additional targets for drill testing;

The data also highlight late NNE-striking sinistral strike slip faults that truncate the Moss Lake gold deposit and suggest a potential extension of mineralization in an area that has been significantly under-drilled; and

The structurally controlled NE-trending domain boundary between highly magnetic and weakly magnetic rocks along the eastern flank of the Company's tenement is the focus of high-grade copper-gold mineralization in the Hamlin prospect (IOCG) and the North Coldstream mine (VMS).

Peter Flindell, VP Exploration commented, "We are delighted to receive this excellent quality dataset that provides significant insight into the structural complexity of our portion of the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt. At this early stage, it suggests both potential offsets of, and focusing mechanisms for, mineralization. This information will greatly assist our efforts to generate new targets and prioritize our drilling program."





Figure 1: Location map showing Goldshore's Moss Lake Project relative to the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8051/95957_fbe858b0444da85d_002full.jpg

Technical Overview

In July 2021, Geotech completed a 2,080-line kilometer heliborne VTEM and magnetic survey on a 100-metre line spacing over the entire tenement, and a 50-metre line spacing over the areas of known mineralization at Moss Lake, Coldstream, and Hamlin. The sensor was maintained at a nominal drape height of 30 meters. The details of this survey are described in the Goldshore press release dated July 14, 2021.

Goldshore technical staff have conducted a preliminary review of the recently received magnetic imagery ahead of a more detailed study being undertaken by TechnoImaging LLC, of Salt Lake City, Utah; which will include 3D inversions of the entire magnetic and VTEM data. TechnoImaging will produce a more qualified and detailed geological interpretation together with constrained 3D targets for follow up exploration.

As part of Goldshore's review, the Company commenced with the Total Magnetic Intensity ("TMI") image available from the OGSEarth website curated by Ontario's Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry (Figure 2). This is a composite of several historic kilometer-scale surveys. It shows the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt to be structurally complex with multiple sigmoidal magnetic trends defined by anastomosing shears and attenuated, lenticular, rigid bodies, which attests to the high degree of non-axial shearing. Furthermore, the presence of boudinaged rigid bodies in the high strain zones provides for markedly different strain responses that can be important for producing and maintaining a permeability network for mineralizing fluids. These rigid bodies include highly magnetic mafic intrusions and low magnetic granitic intrusions, while the highly sheared rocks are a sequence of felsic, intermediate and mafic volcanic rocks together with minor sedimentary units.





Figure 2: Goldshore's Moss Lake Project and known prospects relative to the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt (as defined by the OGSEarth TMI image) together with identified magnetic domains showing the complex anastomosing shears and asymmetric boudinaged bodies.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8051/95957_fbe858b0444da85d_003full.jpg

The Geotech TMI image (Figure 3) overlays extremely well with the regional TMI image giving high confidence in the validity of both datasets as a tool for geological interpretation. The detailed TMI image shows two domains of high magnetic intensity along a NE-SW axis representing mafic intrusions and volcanic rocks along the southeast and northwest margin of the Moss Lake Gold Project. The central NE-striking band of lower magnetic character through the core of the Moss Lake Gold Project reflects the sheared sequence of felsic - intermediate volcanic rocks and sedimentary units together with smaller, presumably also boudinaged, intrusions.





Figure 3: Detailed Total Magnetic Intensity image from Geotech showing the known prospects relative to the main magnetic domains



To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8051/95957_fbe858b0444da85d_004full.jpg

While the structures shown in the TMI image (Figure 2) reflect the regional-scale attenuation within the greenstone belt, the more processed Tilt Derivative ("TD") image (Figure 3) shows a high degree of geological detail. The TD image, which combines the approach taken in more traditional vertical derivative and horizontal gradient images, emphasizes changes in magnetic signature rather than absolute magnetic intensity.





Figure 4: Tilt Derivative image from Geotech showing the greater geological detail than can be mapped by the detailed magnetic survey data. This includes NNE-striking strike-slip faults and tightly folded bodies indicated by contorted red colours. The inset box refers to the location of Figure 5.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 4, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8051/95957_fbe858b0444da85d_005full.jpg

The TD image shows better definition of the domain boundaries shown in Figure 3 and hints at significant and multiple tight folding events that can result in progressive repartitioning of fluid flow and maintenance of permeability networks over significant time. This speaks to the prospectivity of the geology within Goldshore's land package.

The image also maps late NNE-striking faults, which offset the structurally complex stratigraphy.

Figure 5 is an inset of the area around the Moss Lake gold deposit. It shows the detail that may not be obvious in the larger image (Figure 4), including the multiply folded geometry and the association of gold grades with the edges of magnetic and non-magnetic bodies. Figure 5 also shows areas where the Company may expect to discover additional mineralization as extensions of the historical resource.





Figure 5: Detailed view of the Moss Lake gold deposit showing the Company's preliminary interpretation, gold assays above 0.5 g/t Au in historic drill holes and new target areas. The latter include the following short term priorities: A - immediate southwest extension to Moss Lake; B - faulted offset extension to Moss Lake; C and D - northeast strike extensions to Moss Lake Main Zone; and E - potential mineralization in a parallel zone. Potential exists in many other similar, but not yet defined settings.



To view an enhanced version of Figure 5, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8051/95957_fbe858b0444da85d_006full.jpg

The Company's preliminary observations include:

Domain boundaries between mafic dominated and felsic dominated stratigraphic and intrusive rocks are clearly major fault zones across which there are high gradients in shearing strain (Figures 2 and 3);

The known high-grade copper-gold projects at Hamlin and the North Coldstream mine lie along the eastern NE-trending domain boundary (Figures 2-4);

The late NNE-trending faults are interpreted as sinistral strike-slip structures (Figure 4);

The high-grade Iris Lake prospect appears to be localized in a fold nose (Figures 3 and 4);

One of the late NNE-striking faults truncates the western margin of the Moss Lake gold deposit raising the potential for the discovery of the extension of this deposit on the other side of the fault. Current information suggests that the extension likely occurs to the southwest in an area that has been drilled by only two holes by the previous explorers, which did intersect gold mineralization (Figure 5);

Isoclinal folding and boudinaging in shear zones points to the much greater structural complexity of the Shebandowan Greenstone Belt, suggesting that a greater number of structurally localized mineralized areas may await discovery (Figures 4 and 5); and

Gold mineralization at the Moss Lake gold deposit occurs along the flanks of magnetic bodies. Several potential extensions to mineralization at the deposit scale are indicated on Figure 5.

Goldshore is confident that a closer review of these magnetic data over the whole tenement, together with historic prospecting datasets that are yet to benefit from this valuable geological context, will generate many more prospect candidates for future drill testing.

The Company awaits the final VTEM imagery, which will highlight the distribution of conductive units across the project. These are generally concentrations of sulphide mineralization that should correlate with our high-grade copper-gold targets, but may also include graphite-rich stratigraphic units. Work by TechnoImaging will allow us to discriminate these anomaly sources. The nature of these conductors will map the extent of the known mineralization, while any additional conductors will be new and previously undiscovered targets.

"The first results received, while only a small part of the entire package we will ultimately receive from Geotech and TechnoImaging, highlight the importance and benefits of conducting a detailed project-wide geophysical survey. We can already test discrete new targets and extensions to gold mineralization at Moss Lake; and start to prepare for testing the copper-gold and gold targets at Hamlin, Iris and North and East Coldstream," commented Brett Richards, President and Chief Executive Officer of Goldshore.

About Tilt Derivative Magnetics

The Tilt Derivative ("TD") is a function of the ratio of the vertical and horizontal derivatives of the magnetic field intensity. The peaks of tilt angle amplitude should be located over the center and its zeros over the edges of the source body. The tilt angle method is used to investigate the boundaries of deep and shallow structures and provides considerably more fine detail than the standard processed products.

About Goldshore

Goldshore is an emerging junior gold development company, and owns the Moss Lake Gold Project located in Ontario. Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. is currently a strategic shareholder of Goldshore with an approximate 30% equity position in the Company. Well-financed and supported by an industry-leading management group, board of directors and advisory board, Goldshore is positioned to advance the Moss Lake Gold Project through the next stages of exploration and development.

About the Moss Lake Gold Project

The Moss Lake Gold Project is located approximately 100 km west of the city of Thunder Bay, Ontario. It is accessed via Highway 11 which passes within 1 km of the property boundary to the north. The Moss Lake Gold Project covers 14,292 hectares and consists of 282 unpatented and patented mining claims.

Moss Lake hosts a number of gold and base metal rich deposits including the Moss Lake Deposit, the East Coldstream Deposit (Table 1), the historically producing North Coldstream Mine (Table 2), and the Hamlin Zone, all of which occur over a mineralized trend exceeding 20 km in length. A historical preliminary economic assessment was completed on Moss Lake in 2013 and published by Moss Lake Gold1. A historical mineral resource estimate was completed on the East Coldstream Deposit in 2011 by Foundation Resources Inc2,3. In addition to these zones, the Moss Lake Gold Project also hosts a number of under-explored mineral occurrences which are reported to exist both at surface and in historically drilled holes. The Moss Lake Deposit is a shear-hosted disseminated-style gold deposit which outcrops at surface. It has been drilled over a 2.5 km length and to depths of 300 m with 376 holes completed between 1983 and 2017. The last drilling program conducted in 2016 and 2017 by Wesdome Gold Mines Ltd. ("Wesdome"), which consisted of widely spaced holes along the strike extension of the deposit was successful in expanding the mineralized footprint and hydrothermal system 1.6 km to the northeast. Additionally, the deposit remains largely open to depth. In 2017, Wesdome completed an induced polarization survey which traced the potential extensions of pyrite mineralization associated with the Moss Lake Deposit over a total strike length of 8 km and spanning the entire extent of the survey grids.

The East Coldstream Deposit is a shear-hosted disseminated-style gold deposit which locally outcrops at surface. It has been drilled over a 1.3 km length and to depths of 200 m with 138 holes completed between 1988 and 2017. The deposit remains largely open at depth and may have the potential for expansion along strike. Historic drill hole highlights from the East Coldstream Deposit include 4.86 g/t Au over 27.3 m in C-10-15 from previous / historical exploration.

The historically producing North Coldstream Mine is reported to have produced significant amounts of copper, gold and silver4 from mineralization with potential iron-oxide-copper-gold deposit style affinity. The exploration potential immediately surrounding the historic mining area is not currently well understood and historic data compilation is required.

The Hamlin Zone is a significant occurrence of copper and gold mineralization, and also of potential iron-oxide-copper-gold deposit style affinity. Between 2008 and 2011, Glencore tested Hamlin with 24 drill holes which successfully outlined a broad and intermittently mineralized zone over a strike length of 900 m. Historic drill hole highlights from the Hamlin Zone include 0.9 g/t Au and 0.35% Cu over 150.7 m in HAM-11-75.

The Moss Lake, East Coldstream and North Coldstream deposits sit on a mineral trend marked by a regionally significant deformation zone locally referred to as the Wawiag Fault Zone in the area of the Moss Lake Deposit. This deformation zone occurs over a length of approximately 20 km on the Moss Lake Gold Project and there is an area spanning approximately 7 km between the Moss Lake and East Coldstream deposits that is significantly underexplored.

Table 1: Historical Mineral Resources1,2,3

INDICATED INFERRED Deposit Tonnes Au g/t Au oz Tonnes Au g/t Au oz Moss Lake Deposit1 (2013 resource estimate) Open Pit Potential 39,795,000 1.1 1,377,300 48,904,000 1.0 1,616,300 Underground Potential - - - 1,461,100 2.9 135,400 Moss Lake Total 39,795,000 1.1 1,377,300 50,364,000 1.1 1,751,600

East Coldstream Deposit2 (2011 resource estimate) East Coldstream Total 3,516,700 0.85 96,400 30,533,000 0.78 763,276

Combined Total 43,311,700 1.08 1,473,700 80,897,000 0.98 2,514,876

Notes:

(Source: Poirier, S., Patrick, G.A., Richard, P.L., and Palich, J., 2013. Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Moss Lake Project, 43-101 technical report prepared for Moss Lake Gold Mines Ltd. Moss Lake Deposit resource estimate is based on 0.5 g/t Au cut-off grade for open pit and 2.0 g/t Au cut-off grade for underground resources. Source: McCracken, T., 2011. Technical Report and Resource Estimate on the Osmani Gold Deposit, Coldstream Property, Northwestern Ontario, 43-101 technical report prepared for Foundation Resources Inc. and Alto Ventures Ltd. East Coldstream Deposit resource estimate is based on a 0.4 g/t Au cut-off grade. The reader is cautioned that the above referenced "historical mineral resource" estimates are considered historical in nature and as such is based on prior data and reports prepared by previous property owners. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the historical estimates as current resources and Goldshore is not treating the historical estimates as current resources. Significant data compilation, re-drilling, re-sampling and data verification may be required by a qualified person before the historical estimate on the Moss Lake Gold Project can be classified as a current resource. There can be no assurance that any of the historical mineral resources, in whole or in part, will ever become economically viable. In addition, mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Even if classified as a current resource, there is no certainty as to whether further exploration will result in any inferred mineral resources being upgraded to an indicated or measured mineral resource category.

Table 2: Reported Historical Production from the North Coldstream Deposit4

Deposit Tonnes Cu % Au g/t Ag Cu lbs Au oz Ag oz Historical Production 2,700,0000 1.89 0.56 5.59 102,000,000 44,000 440,000

Note:

Source: Schlanka, R., 1969. Copper, Nickel, Lead and Zinc Deposits of Ontario, Mineral Resources Circular No. 12, Ontario Geological Survey, pp. 314-316.

Peter Flindell, MAusIMM, MAIG , Vice President, Exploration of the Company, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For More Information - Please Contact:

Brett A. Richards

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Goldshore Resources Inc.

P. +1 604 288 4416

M. +1 905 449 1500

E. brichards@goldshoreresources.com

W. www.goldshoreresources.com

Facebook: GoldShoreRes |Twitter: GoldShoreRes | LinkedIn: goldshoreres

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements, or developments to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Forward-looking statements in this news release include, among others, statements relating to expectations regarding the exploration and development of the Moss Lake Gold Project, including planned drilling activities and testing of targets, and other statements that are not historical facts. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or other future events, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors and risks include, among others: the Company may require additional financing from time to time in order to continue its operations which may not be available when needed or on acceptable terms and conditions acceptable; compliance with extensive government regulation; domestic and foreign laws and regulations could adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations; the stock markets have experienced volatility that often has been unrelated to the performance of companies and these fluctuations may adversely affect the price of the Company's securities, regardless of its operating performance; and the impact of COVID-19.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward-looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE U.S.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95957
New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Pacific Ventures Group, Inc. (OTC Pink: PACV) (the "Company"), a food and beverage holding company specializing in the distribution of consumer food, beverage and alcohol-related products, was the subject of recent coverage by leading financial news website and publisher, SmallCapsDaily. The article is a detailed analysis of Pacific Ventures Group's trajectory within the food and beverage industries. The company began with the production of alcohol-infused ice creams and ice treats under its brand SnoBar and now operates through its 3 subsidiaries - the previously mentioned, SnoBar, as well as Seaport Meat, and San Diego Farmers Outlet. Pacific Ventures Group distributes meat through Seaport Meat Co., and sells fresh fruits and vegetables through its San Diego Farmers Outlet subsidiary. Founded by food industry innovator, Shannon Masjedi, the company supplies food products to many hotels, restaurants, resorts, food trucks, caterers, and clubs, as well as pubs. Given Pacific Ventures Group's positioning in the food and beverage market, as well as the expansion of the customer base of its subsidiaries to include hospitals, nursing homes, and naval bases, the company is clearly headed in a positive direction.

For more detailed information, please click here for the full article at the SmallCapsDaily website.



Key Takeaways

Seaport Meat, the largest revenue earning subsidiary of Pacific Ventures, not only manufactures and wholesales custom processed beef, pork, lamb, chicken, veal and seafood products, it also has an online model for the direct-to-consumer sale of meat products.

SnoBar offers three major types of ice pops, including Mojito, Margarita, and Cosmopolitan, that replicate the distinct experience and flavor of the traditional cocktails.

The company recently announced that they have generated $11.6 million in revenues for Q2, a growth of 33% compared to the $8.7 million number reported in Q2 2020, taking their annualized runrate close to $45 million.

About Pacific Ventures Group, Inc.

Pacific Ventures Group, Inc. (OTC Pink: PACV) is focused on expansion within the consumer products, food, beverage and alcohol-related industries. For more information on PACV, please visit www.pacvgroup.com. (You need to be at least 21 years of age (legal age to consume alcohol) to visit the section of the web site dedicated to SnoBar.)

Forward-looking Statements

SmallCapsDaily profiles are not a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. SmallCapsDaily is a paid advertiser and is not offering securities for sale. Neither SmallCapsDaily nor its owners, operators, affiliates or anyone disseminating information on its behalf is registered as an Investment Advisor under any federal or state law and none of the information provided by SmallCapsDaily its owners, operators, affiliates or anyone disseminating information on its behalf should be construed as investment advice or investment recommendations. Small Caps Daily does not recommend that the securities profiled should be purchased, sold or held and is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Information presented by Small Caps Daily may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance, are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements are based on expectations, estimates and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward-looking statements may be identified through the use of words such as "expects," "will," "anticipates," "estimates," "believes," "may," or by statements indicating that certain actions "may," "could," or "might" occur.

Contact:

SmallCapsDaily

info@smallcapsdaily.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95960
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / St. Anthony Gold Corp. ("St. Anthony" or the "Company") (CSE:STAG)(Frankfurt:M1N)(OTC PINK:MTEHF) is pleased to announce a significant increase in reported gold grades in drill core from check assaying with Metallic Screen Fire Assay ("MSFA") as compared to Original Fire Assay ("OFA") at the St Anthony gold mine property located in the Kenora-Patricia Mining District, Ontario.

The previously reported high-grade intercept (314 g/t Au) encountered in drill hole SA21-18, plus three adjacent samples, was re-assays using a metallic screening assay procedure. (See press release dated August 24, 2021) The metallic screening assay reported a total gold content, for the above-mentioned sample, of 1,245 g/t gold - a 296% increase in grade.

Highlighted metallic screen fire assay check sample results vs original fire assay results follows:

0.04 g/t OFA increases to 0.06 g/t MSFA - 50% Increase

314 g/t OFA increases to 1,245 g/t MSFA - 296% Increase

0.014 g/t OFA increases to 6.11 g/t MSFA - 435,412% Increase

1.14 g/t OFA decreases to 0.07 g/t MSFA - 94% decrease

The new composite interval in SA21-18 stands at:

169 grams per tonne Au over 3.7 m at depth of 327.3 m.

Additional metallic screen fire assays from other report high-grade assays are awaited from the assay lab.

The remainder of the phase 1, 5000 m drill program (2,500 m) will focus on building tonnage by delineating the high-grade intervals encountered to date.

Analytical protocols:

Drill core samples will be sent to ALS Global of Thunder Bay for gold (Au-AA23) and multi-element (ME-MS61) analysis plus spectral mineralogy data will be collected from selected samples through the mineralized envelope to assist in vectoring to additional gold bearing?structures. Assay results >10 g/t are subjected to a metallic screening (Au-SCR24) 1kg pulp screened to 100 microns. Other screen sizes available. Duplicate 50 g assay on screen undersize. Assay of entire oversize fraction.

St. Anthony Gold Corp. applies industry-standard quality assurance/quality control procedures to the program. Certified reference materials, blanks and field duplicates are included in all drill core batches sent to the laboratory.

ABOUT THE ST. ANTHONY GOLD PROJECT:

The St. Anthony Gold Mine is located in the Kenora-Patricia Mining District of Ontario and encompasses four historical mining operations including the largest past-producing mine in the area, the St. Anthony. The mine produced 63,310 ounces of gold from 332,720 tons for an average grade of 5.95 grams per tonne (or 0.191 ounces per ton) up until World War II when gold production was halted. (source: Technical Report on the St. Anthony and Best/King Bay Properties, prepared by Graeme Evans BSc, PGeo, June 16, 2015). The property consists of 233 contiguous claims totaling 4,224 hectares (42.24 sq. km). In addition to the historical underground workings over 20 gold (-silver) occurrences have been documented, some hosting visible gold, many of which have seen little if any exploration work for several decades. Previous workers in the area include Aubet, Can Con and Falconbridge, companies that carried out work focused on the bulk tonnage potential of a mineralized area hosted within a quartz-feldspar porphyry intrusive located within the property. The St. Anthony Gold Project is located 85 km east of the town of Sioux Lookout, or 13 km south of the smaller town of Savant Lake.

Andrew Tims obtained his B.Sc. in Geology from Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, and is a Registered Professional Geologist in Ontario and Manitoba and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

ABOUT ST. ANTHONY GOLD CORP.

St. Anthony Gold Corp, a Canadian-based mineral exploration corporation, is focused on identifying and advancing high-value mineral properties.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SEE THE COMPANY'S WEB SITE AT

https://stanthonygoldcorp.com

Email to info@stanthonygoldcorp.com

Contact: Peter Wilson CEO - 604-649-0945

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Further information about the Company is available on www.SEDAR.com under the Company's profile.

Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking information") as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated", "anticipates" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Certain statements contained in this release may constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking information") as those terms are used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and similar Canadian laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words "could", "intend", "expect", "believe", "will", "projected", "estimated", "anticipates" and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on the Company's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. Actual future results may differ materially. In particular, this release contains forward-looking information relating to the business of the Company, the Property, financing and certain corporate changes. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and the Company is not obligated to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: St. Anthony Gold Corp.





View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663278/St-Anthony-Gold-Corp-Re-Assay-Increases-High-Grade-intersection-by-300-to-169-grams-per-tonne-Au-over-37-m-at-St-Anthony-Gold-Mine-Property


TOKYO (dpa-AFX) - Toyota Motor Corporation on Thursday announced the introduction of 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, a compact SUV based on the ever-popular Corolla sedan and promising both the engaging driving experience of a small car and the functionality of a larger crossover. It would be reaching dealerships this October with a starting MSRP of $22,195 for the front-wheel drive base grade and at an additional $1,300 for the all-wheel drive.



The product would be assembled at the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Alabama that will have the capacity to produce up to 150,000 Corolla Cross vehicles per year.



The compact SUV maximizes the inherent potential of the high-strength TNGA-C platform and a 169-horsepower 2.0-liter Dynamic Force Engine. It is equipped with the mighty Dynamic Force four cylinder, 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) engine. From an engineering perspective, it offers an approachable exterior as well as a higher line-of-sight thanks to the revised TNGA-C platform.



The product is being offered in three grades - L, LE and XLE and in seven exterior colour options. All grades come standard with both the Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced active safety systems, as well as Toyota's signature STAR Safety System.



Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. The SUV comes standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Searchlight Resources Inc. ("Searchlight" or the "Company") (TSXV:SCLT)(OTC PINK: CNYCF)(FSE:2CC2) is pleased to announce that it has completed the required payments and work commitments to earn a 75% interest in the Bootleg Lake Gold project, located near Creighton, Saskatchewan, five kilometres southwest of the Flin Flon mining complex.

On June 30, 2021, Searchlight made a payment of $100,000 and issued 166,667 shares to New Moon Minerals, and in August 2021 the Company completed the required $750,000 in exploration expenditures to complete the 75% option. Searchlight is presently in discussions with New Moon to acquire the remaining 25% interest in the Bootleg Gold project.

"Bootleg Lake was Searchlight's first project in Saskatchewan, and this has led to the opportunity for Searchlight to acquire a portfolio of high quality gold, copper, zinc, cobalt, vanadium, uranium and rare earth projects in one of the best jurisdictions for mining investment in the world", stated Alf Stewart, Chairman.

The Bootleg property consists of 20 contiguous claims totalling 52 square kilometres (Map 1), with the core claims in good standing until 2040. The project area hosts four past-producing gold mines, including three mines - Rio, Henning-Maloney and Newcor Gold - with historical resource estimates. Apart from the known deposits, there are multiple additional gold and copper occurrences on the claims, including Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide (VMS) targets.

To advance the property, the Company has completed two drill programs; in 2018 at the Rio Mine, and in 2021 at the Henning-Maloney Mine. The two drill programs were designed to confirm historical gold mineralization, and test for mineralization at greater depths.

"Searchlight has been encouraged by the exploration results to date, with drilling expanding the zones of known gold mineralization, including results at Henning-Maloney which indicate multiple vein structures starting close to the surface. Furthermore, geophysics suggests that three of the past-producing mines are part of the same 4-kilometre long structure", stated Stephen Wallace, CEO.

Map 1: Location of Bootleg Lake Option claims relative to Flin Flon

The 2018 drill program focused on the Rio Mine, drilling beneath the 1,500 metres of historic underground workings to confirm gold mineralization to a depth of approximately 200 metres. Significant results include:

 5.24 g/t gold over 4.0 m including 12.24 g/t Au over 0.50 m in DDH BL-01

 2.09 g/t gold over 19.0 m in DDH BL-01

 2.45 g/t gold over 5.0 min DDH BL-02

The 2021 drill program focused on the Henning-Maloney Mine, confirming gold mineralization to a depth of approximately 150 metres, approximately 3 times the depth of the 1940's mine. A total of 11 gold intersections in the three diamond drill holes include:

4.15 g/t gold over 0.95 m in drill hole HM-21-01

1.16 g/t gold over 9.75 m in drill hole HM-21-02

8.4 g/t gold over 0.7 m in drill hole HM-21-02

31.59 g/t gold over 1.0 m in drill hole HM-21-03

Qualified Person

Stephen Wallace, P.Geo., is Searchlight's Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

About Searchlight Resources Inc.

Searchlight Resources Inc. (TSXV:SCLT, US:CNYCF, FSE:2CC2) is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company focused on Saskatchewan, Canada, which has been ranked as the top location for mining investment in Canada by the Fraser Institute. Exploration focus is on gold and battery minerals throughout the Province, concentrating on projects close to infrastructure.

Searchlight holds a 427.6 square kilometre land position within the gold and base metal rich Flin Flon - Snow Lake Greenstone Belt. The Company is currently advancing its Bootleg Lake Gold Project which hosts four past-producing high-grade gold mines, located in Saskatchewan, less than 10 km from Flin Flon, Manitoba.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

"Stephen Wallace"

Stephen Wallace, President, CEO and Director

SEARCHLIGHT RESOURCES INC.

For further information, visit the Company's website at www.searchlightresources.com or contact:

Searchlight Resources Inc.

Alf Stewart, Chairman

(604) 331-9326

info@searchlightresources.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to the Company's limited operating history and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

SOURCE: Searchlight Resources Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663333/Searchlight-Resources-Earns-75-interest-in-Bootleg-Lake-Gold-Option
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Benchmark Metals Inc. (TSXV: BNCH) (OTCQX: BNCHF) (WKN: A2JM2X) (the "Company" or "Benchmark") is pleased to announce that more than 41,000 metres of drilling has been completed with 6 drill rigs currently operating at its ongoing resource expansion program and advancement of new regional targets on its flagship Lawyers Gold-Silver Project, located within a road accessible region of the prolific Golden Horseshoe area of north-central British Columbia, Canada. The Company is nearing completion of a comprehensive geological reconnaissance program consisting of rock and soil sampling, mapping, and geophysics; resulting in a significant expansion to its robust database that will provide further opportunities to outline new potential on highly prospective zones that remain open.

As a result of the Regional Exploration Program the Company has generated the new 'Black Lake' copper-gold-silver zone located within the southern portion of the project. The systematic exploration work has identified the Black Lake target as being highly prospective for copper-gold-silver mineralizing systems. Results from the 2021 exploration program at Black Lake has identified east-northeast and northwest mineralized corridors extending over 500 metres in strike-length, with rock grab samples assaying up to 1.25 grams per tonne (g/t) Au, 137 g/t Ag, and 829 parts per million (ppm) Cu (Figure 1). These results verify the presence of copper-gold systems within the same regional host rocks known to host copper-gold porphyries such as the Kemess Mine located ~45 kilometres to the southeast.





Figure 1: Black Lake corridor overlying ground magnetic geophysical survey

*AuEq calculated using an 80:1 silver to gold ratio

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6169/95910_dc78e825b4e2ab8c_002full.jpg

John Williamson, CEO commented, "The discovery of new copper-gold-silver mineralization on the project demonstrates the effectiveness of our methodology to consistently identify new and highly prospective zones for targeted systematic exploration. The 2021 regional exploration program has been very successful in outlining the grassroots potential of these large new target areas and verifies the robust nature of a variety of mineralizing systems that exist across the +20 kilometre Lawyers Trend."

Black Lake Exploration Target

Initial exploration at the Black Lake target, located ~6 kilometres to the south of the Cliff Creek resource zone (Figure 2), has identified mineralized corridors trending to the northwest and northeast with rock grab and soil samples indicating gold, silver, and copper mineralization. The Black Lake zone provides new grassroots opportunities to explore for copper-gold mineralizing systems within the Late Triassic Takla Group volcanic rocks and Black Lake intrusives that are located within the southern portion of the Lawyers project; these units are known to host the Kemess Copper-Gold Mine ~45 kilometres along-trend to the southeast. Within the Black Lake target zone are the highly prospective Black Lake Alteration Corridor, R3 Stockwork, and Fern Gully zones which remain open.

The Black Lake Alteration Corridor consists of several meter-scale sulphidized massive quartz veins occurring as spaced-out ribs over a width of +60 metres, extending along a northwest trend for ~500 metres. Mineralization within Takla Group volcanics was extensively sampled along this trend which sub-parallels a contact with Black Lake intrusive units. Significant rock grab samples within this prospect include assays up to 2.97 g/t Gold Equivalent (*AuEq) and 810ppm Cu.

The R3 Stockwork zone trends east-northeast for 100 metres along-strike and consists of an intense hydrothermal breccia which extends over an area +45 metres wide. Just to the north of the hydrothermal breccia is an exposed zone of intensely silicified pyrite-rich volcanic rocks, containing banded veins that host chalcopyrite mineralization. Significant rock grab samples within this prospect include assays up to 1.31 g/t AuEq.

Silicified volcanics and stockwork veining exposed at the Fern Gully zone suggests mineralization extends ~500 metres along-strike to the west-southwest of the R3 zone; supported by the 2021 ground magnetic and soil sampling surveys. Veining and mineralization at Fern Gully was also observed within Black Lake intrusives that are proximally located to the south. Significant rock grab samples within this prospect include assays up to 783ppm Cu.

Airborne VTEM geophysical and radiometric survey (in progress)

An airborne VTEM geophysical and radiometric survey is currently underway spanning the southern half of the Lawyers Gold-Silver Project, which includes the Black Lake target (Figure 3). This survey will allow for improved identification and targeting of electromagnetic (EM) and potassic anomalies associated with porphyry and epithermal mineralization. Targeting EM and potassic anomalies has been proven effective within the northern portion of the project with a number of new gold occurrences identified at surface as well as coincident soil anomalies.





Figure 2: Lawyers gold-silver project zones overlying AuEq soil contour map

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6169/95910_dc78e825b4e2ab8c_003full.jpg





Figure 3: Figure illustrating zones overlying current and planned VTEM geophysical survey

To view an enhanced version of Figure 3, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/6169/95910_dc78e825b4e2ab8c_004full.jpg

Lawyers Project Exploration Updates:

The Company has experienced significant delays for assay results due to high industry demand across Canada and the Golden Horseshoe region. Assay results are taking 8-12 weeks for completion. Benchmark is beginning to be receive initial drillhole results and will commence releasing assay results as they become available.

Drilling (as of September 4th)

18,067 m drilled at the Cliff Creek Deposit

12,867 m drilled at the AGB Deposit

3,300 m drilled at the Duke's Ridge Deposit

2,734 m drilled at Marmot

525 m drilled at Marmot East

900 m drilled at M-Grid

1,370 m drilled at Silver Creek

790 m drilled at Silver Pond Clay

Geophysics (as of September 4th)

VTEM airborne geophysical survey in progress

Ground magnetics/VLF is nearing completion at the Arctic E-Grid, infill at 50 metre spacing will then be conducted over areas of interest until end of September

Soil and Rock Sampling (complete)

1,038 rock samples collected

Majority of rock samples collected over the Silver Pond North, Marmot East, and Black Lake discovery and exploration targets

2,736 soil samples collected

Majority of prospect soil samples collected over Silver Pond North, Marmot East, Black Lake, Round Mountain, and Kodah discovery and exploration targets

Quality Assurance and Control

Results from samples were analyzed at ALS Global Laboratories (Geochemistry Division) in Vancouver, Canada (an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accredited facility). The sampling program was undertaken by Company personnel under the direction of Rob L'Heureux, P.Geol. A secure chain of custody is maintained in transporting and storing of all samples. Gold was assayed using a fire assay with atomic emission spectrometry and gravimetric finish when required (+10 g/t Au). Analysis by four acid digestion with 48 element ICP-MS analysis was conducted on all samples with silver and base metal over- limits being re-analyzed by atomic absorption or emission spectrometry. Rock chip samples from outcrop/bedrock are selective by nature and may not be representative of the mineralization hosted on the project.

The technical content of this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael Dufresne, M.Sc, P.Geol., P.Geo., a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Benchmark Metals

Benchmark Metals Inc. is a Canadian based gold and silver company advancing its 100% owned Lawyer's Gold-Silver Project located in the prolific Golden Horseshoe of northern British Columbia, Canada. The Project consists of three mineralized deposits that remain open for expansion, in addition to +20 new target areas along the 20 kilometre trend. The Company trades on the TSX Venture Exchange in Canada, the OTCQX Best Market in the United States, and the Tradegate Exchange in Europe. Benchmark is managed by proven resource sector professionals, who have a track record of advancing exploration projects from grassroots scenarios through to production.

www.metalsgroup.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

s/ "John Williamson"

John Williamson, Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Jim Greig

Email: jimg@BNCHmetals.com

Telephone: +1 604 260 6977

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This news release may contain certain "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95910
Plymouth, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Plymouth Rock Technologies Inc. (CSE: PRT) (OTCQB: PLRTF) (FSE: 4XA) (WKN# A2N8RH) ("Plymouth Rock", "PRT", or the "Company"), a leader in developing threat detection and unmanned technologies, is pleased to announce that it has completed the qualification for ISO 9001: 2015, and has been accredited this under certificate 377662021.

ISO 9001: 2015 Quality Management Standard (QMS) was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and is recognized throughout the world. The standard is centered around seven quality management principles with customer focus, efficiency of company process approach and continuous improvement being key elements.

ISO is one of the most rigorous and well-regarded standards in the world. The implementation and application of ISO reinforces our company focus on creating products and services, measured against global benchmarks of industry excellence.

"Achieving the ISO 9001:2015 standard is required for any business that wishes to implement meaningful QMS policies, processes, and procedures necessary to provide products and services that meet high customer and regulatory standards," stated Paul Keen, Director of UK Operations for PRT. "With the UK organization now fully ISO accredited, we are moving towards the PRT USA operation becoming certified" concluded Keen."

"Passing an independent quality standards assessment by an internationally recognized organization, is testament to the high standards that the PRT team hold themselves to," stated Carl Cagliarini, Chief Strategy Officer of PRT. "This accreditation demonstrates to our clients and shareholders the importance we place on service and quality. In addition to this, we are pleased to announce an expansion to our team which comprises of eight new hires across the organization. To facilitate this expansion, we are also pleased to announce the formulation of Plymouth Rock Technologies UK Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of PRT," concluded Cagliarini.

Through this formulation, PRT now has three facilities across the United Kingdom, comprising of Tetra Drone, a wholly owned subsidiary of PRT, in Lincolnshire, the new PRT UAS Flight Center in Norfolk, and our EMEA Corporate office, which will be managed by Bromesborrow Corporate Services UK, Herefordshire" stated Dana Wheeler, President & CEO of PRT.

About the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)

ISO is an independent, non-governmental international organisation with a membership of over 165 national standards bodies.

Through its members, it brings together experts to share knowledge and develop voluntary, consensus-based, market relevant International Standards that support innovation and provide solutions to global challenges. Their Central Secretariat is in Geneva, Switzerland. International Standards give world-class specifications for products, services and systems, to ensure quality, safety and efficiency.

ISO has published more than 23000 International Standards and related documents, covering almost every industry, from technology, to food safety, to agriculture and healthcare.

https://www.iso.org

About Plymouth Rock Technologies Inc.

We are on a mission to bring engineering-driven answers to the most critical problems that threaten our safety. We work with government, law enforcement and military to innovate solutions for national security, defense and space systems.

The Company is developing the next generation of threat detection solutions and Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).

The PRT X1 is a purpose-built multirotor UAS, utilizing Artificial Intelligence, cutting-edge sensors and the latest FLIR dual-camera module as standard, offering thermal capabilities alongside 1080p HD real-time air-to-ground streaming and 4K video recording, with the ability to mount multiple, various sensors, modules and payloads.

Our advanced threat detection methods fuse artificial intelligence with augmented reality interfaces to eliminate human operating error. Plymouth Rock products, both airborne and land-based, will scan for threat items at greater 'stand-off' distances than current existing technologies. Our unique radar imaging and signal processing technology creates new opportunities for remotely operated, non-intrusive screening of crowds in real time.

Plymouth Rock's core technologies include: (1) UAS platforms engineered to conform to NDAA Section 848 ("PRT UAS"); (2) A compact microwave radar system for scanning shoe's ("Shoe Scanner"); (3) A compact modular radar utilized for a variety of applications, from aircraft to weapon detection ("CODA").

www.plyrotech.com

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Dana Wheeler

President and CEO

+1-774-404-7685

info@plyrotech.com

Investor Information:

Tasso Baras

+1-778-477-6990

tasso@plyrotech.com

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/95907
-SUTUS 2021 will bring together national and international leaders to discuss the two greatest future challenges of luxury tourism: the cosmos and subaquatic world. Among the participating speakers are Sam Scimemi (NASA), Bernard Foing (ESA), Tony Gannon (Space Florida) Hiroko Ajusakura (JAXA), Fabien Cousteau (Proteus), Aaron Olivera (Earth300) and Hector Salvador (Triton Submarines)

-The congress will be presented in a hybrid format (in-person and online) that begins September 22nd at Les Roches, one of the top hotel management universities in the world and internationally recognized by the tourism industry. Registration is now open at www.sutusummit.com

-What is the next step in private space travel? Is it possible to grow plants on the moon? How are non-professional, private astronauts trained? Is it possible to live underwater? What archaeological treasures do our oceans contain? These are just some of the questions that will be answered at SUTUS 2021

LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The pioneering event on space and underwater tourism, which brings together the main international space agencies and private ventures, will celebrate its second edition at Les Roches' from September 22nd to 24th, coinciding with the autumn equinox and in hybrid format, with one full day of face-to-face presentations and two additional days of virtual sessions.

SUTUS 2021, under the title "Tourism Beyond Natural Borders", is a unique event, organized by Les Roches, one of the most important in the world together with Medina Media Events.

This edition will feature renowned international and national professionals from the aerospace industry together with officials from NASA, ESA, and JAXA. During the three-day conference speakers and panels will discuss, among other current issues, private travel to space and the private capital ventures working to make the dream reality alongside more scientific research into areas like agriculture on other planets. Upon returning to Earth, participants at SUTUS will dive into the world of subaquatic tourism, where marine archaeologists, diving experts and intrepid explorers will show them this unexplored world.

In addition, the Les Roches' campus will also host a demo area where innovative projects related to tourism from different national and international companies will be exhibited, such as the emergency shelter designed by ESA, a zeppelin floating over the campus, an educational project by The City of the Stars which consists of a 4x6 meter portable planetarium that forms part of a virtual reality walk through the solar system.

Carlos Diez de la Lastra, Managing Director of Les Roches Marbella, said "SUTUS was born to become a benchmark for luxury tourism. For this new edition of SUTUS, there's no better place than Les Roches, a hotel management training school and benchmark of quality education both inside and outside our borders, to collaborate with this exciting project".

In this second edition, and through the platform by Medina Media Events that has been used in the 4K-HDR Summit, the 5GForum and Extenda Global, virtual assistants and registered companies will be able to follow all the sessions via live streaming and have B2B meetings between them and the speakers.

In-person participation, due to anti-Covid measures, will be restricted to speakers, institutions, sponsors, VIP attendees and the media.

Through the website www.sutusummit.com you can register and access the official program. SUTUS is an opportunity to listen to keynote speakers talk about the most ambitious challenges of the emerging space and underwater tourism sectors and to share knowledge and business opportunities.

FOR MEDIA ASSISTANCE AND INTERVIEW REQUESTS, PLEASE CONTACT:

Anouck Weiss, VP Communication, media@sommet-education.com

MORE INFORMATION:

https://www.sommet-education.com/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1612050/Greenmoon.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1474135/LesRoches_Logo.jpg
Teleperformance named 5th Best Workplace in entire Latin America Region

Recognition is based on confidential, independent survey data from more than one million employees in around 8,000 companies

Trust, leadership, values, innovation and maximizing human potential factors are evaluated

Teleperformance's operations in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico and Peru were among highest ranked on their respective national lists

125 companies named best in LATAM region were the highest ranked on GPTW Best Workplaces national lists

More than 90% of the Teleperformance staff worldwide currently work in independently certified Best Employer operations

Regulatory News:

Great Place to Work, the global authority on workplace culture, has announced that Teleperformance (Paris:TEP), a leading global group in digitally integrated business services, ranked in the top 5 multinationals 2021 Best Workplaces in the Latin America2021 List. This exceptional ranking is especially meaningful because it is based directly on confidential, direct survey data feedback of more than one million employees in around 8,000 companies that each anonymously assessed their company on factors including trust, company values, leadership and innovation.

The top 125 companies, including many iconic brands, were recognized by being the highest ranked on the Great Place to Work Best Workplaces national lists from the entire region. Teleperformance had 9 national list wins for its operations in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico and Peru.

This achievement is particularly significant with Teleperformance rapidly converting more than 240,000 employees worldwide to work from home and with the world now in its second full year of the Covid-19 pandemic which has caused major worldwide employment challenges and disruptions.

"Congratulations to the Best Workplaces in Latin America for putting the well-being of their employees first," said Michael C. Bush, Global CEO of Great Place to Work. "During an incredibly challenging time for the region, these companies created equitable workplaces by providing flexibility and supporting their employees through strife. The Best Workplaces in Latin America embody the mission of Great Place to Work and are indeed making work great work For All."

Teleperformance Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Daniel Julien, said: "To be recognized by the leading independent global authority as top 5 multinational best workplace for all of Latin America makes us both proud and humble. We care about our people and have a relentless focus on employee well-being and respect based on non-discrimination, inclusion, diversity, transparency and ethics in everything we do. This ranking, based on many thousands of our Latin America employees' direct feedback, shows we offer a welcoming work environment based on fair practices, employee trust, mutual respect and the desire to help each person maximize their potential. Our people care commitment applies to all of our over 380,000 employees around the world. The Group is now certified in sixty countries by leading third-party experts on workplace culture assessment. This means more than 90% of our entire worldwide staff work in independently certified best employer operations regardless if they are working from home or in an office."

ABOUT TELEPERFORMANCE GROUP

Teleperformance (TEP ISIN: FR0000051807 Reuters: TEPRF.PA Bloomberg: TEP FP), a leading global group in digitally integrated business services, serves as a strategic partner to the world's largest companies in many industries. It offers a One Office support services model combining three wide, high-value solution families: customer experience management, back-office services and business process knowledge services. These end-to-end digital solutions guarantee successful customer interaction and optimized business processes, anchored in a unique, comprehensive high tech, high touch approach. The Group's 380,000+ employees, based in 83 countries, support billions of connections every year in over 265 languages and over 170 markets, in a shared commitment to excellence as part of the "Simpler, Faster, Safer" process.This mission is supported by the use of reliable, flexible, intelligent technological solutions and compliance with the industry's highest security and quality standards, based on Corporate Social Responsibility excellence. In 2020, Teleperformance reported consolidated revenue of 5,732 million (US$6.5 billion, based on 1 $1.14) and net profit of 324 million.

Teleperformance shares are traded on the Euronext Paris market, Compartment A, and are eligible for the deferred settlement service. They are included in the following indices: CAC 40, CAC Support Services, STOXX 600, S&P Europe 350 and MSCI Global Standard. In the area of corporate social responsibility, Teleperformance shares are included in the CAC 40 ESG index, the Euronext Vigeo Eurozone 120 index, the FTSE4Good index and the Solactive Europe Corporate Social Responsibility index (formerly Ethibel Sustainability Excellence Europe index).

For more information: www.teleperformance.com Follow us on Twitter: @teleperformance

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005675/en/

Contacts:

FINANCIAL ANALYSTS AND INVESTORS

Investor relations and financial

communication department

TELEPERFORMANCE

Tel: +33 1 53 83 59 15

investor@teleperformance.com

PRESS RELATIONS

Europe

Laurent Poinsot Karine Allouis

IMAGE7

Tel: +33 1 53 70 74 70

teleperformance@image7.fr

PRESS RELATIONS

Americas and Asia-Pacific

Mark Pfeiffer

TELEPERFORMANCE

Tel: 1 801-257-5811

mark.pfeiffer@teleperformance.com
Y-T-D sales total $19.8 million

CHICO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / AmeraMex International, Inc. (OTCQB:AMMX), a provider of heavy equipment for logistics companies, infrastructure construction and forestry conservation, announced that it has received equipment orders totaling $2,097,500. Year-to-date, AmeraMex has announced sales of approximately $19.8 million.

Orders consisted of the following equipment:

Two Kovaco Electric's 100 percent electric MiniZ Skid Steer loaders and one all-electric Kovaco Elise 900 loader were sold. The MiniZs were purchased by a contractor who provides services to a U.S. government facility in Alaska. While the contractor has purchased other skid steer loaders from AmeraMex, the Kovacos were purchased as their zero emissions make them perfect for use within the facility. The third MiniZ was purchased by a large landowner in Northern California. The Elise 900 was purchased by a manufacturing company in Southern California.

Kovaco Electric's MiniZ Skid Steer Loader

Three Kalmar 650 Forklifts were purchased by a commercial construction company. The Kalmar Forklifts each have a 65,000-pound capacity.

Kalmar 650 Forklift

Two Xtreme Telehandlers, Model 1255 with a 12,000-pound capacity and Model 621 with a 6,000-pound capacity were purchased by a commercial construction company. A Telehandler is a construction vehicle made to lift items and heavy weights, and it often is a hybrid of the crane and forklift in terms of abilities and size. The main feature of the telehandler is its boom, which is capable of equipping attachments for further uses.

Xtreme Telehandler

An ASV RT-120F (forestry model) with mulching head was purchased by a fire protection company in Northern California. The equipment is used to remove debris and underbrush from agriculture lands and forests.

ASV RT-120F

Two Taylor Loaded Container Handlers were sold, one to a port located in Seattle, WA and one to a port located in Houston, TX.

For more information and pricing of logistics, construction, and forestry equipment or to receive information and arrange for a demonstration of the Kovaco Electric's 100 percent electric skid steer loaders or the line of ASV Posti-Tract and Skid Steer Loaders, contact the AmeraMex/Hamre Equipment sales team at 530.895.8955.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release are forward-looking statements. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "potential," "continue" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties, and there are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Investors are encouraged to review the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Company's control which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects the Company's current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

Investor and Media Relations

McCloud Communications, LLC

Marty Tullio, Managing Member

Office: 949.632.1900 or Marty@McCloudCommunications.com

SOURCE: AmeraMex International Inc

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663265/AmeraMex-International-Announces-Equipment-Orders-Totaling-Approximately-20-Million
9 September 2021

RESULT OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust Limited (the "Company") announces that at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held at 1 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5AU on Thursday, 9 September 2021, ordinary resolutions numbered 1 to 9 and special resolutions numbered 1 and 2, as set out in the Notice of Meeting, were duly passed. Voting was held by poll.

The poll results are set out below:

Ordinary Resolution Description For % For Against % Against Withheld % of Issued Share Capital 1 To receive, consider and approve the

Consolidated Annual Report and Financial Statements. 216,402,654 99.91% 186,251 0.09% 22,141 38.29% 2 To approve the Remuneration Report. 216,112,535 99.77% 498,511 0.23% 0 38.29% 3 To re-elect Ms Lorraine Baldry 215,759,583 99.61% 844,365 0.39% 7,098 38.29% 4 To re-elect Mr Stephen Bligh. 216,343,258 99.88% 260,690 0.12% 7,098 38.29% 5 To re-elect Mr Alastair Hughes. 216,343,258 99.88% 260,690 0.12% 7,098 38.29% 6 To re-elect Mr Graham Basham. 216,343,258 99.88% 260,690 0.12% 7,098 38.29% 7 To appoint Ernst and Young LLP as auditor. 216,108,688 99.79% 449,260 0.21% 53,098 38.28% 8 To authorise the Board of Directors to determine

the Auditor 's remuneration. 216,176,829 99.80% 431,119 0.20% 3,098 38.29% 9 To receive and approve the Company's Dividend Policy. 216,420,073 99.91% 186,973 0.09% 4,000 38.29% Special Resolution 1 To renew the authority to make

market acquisitions of own shares 215,850,206 99.65% 760,840 0.35% 0 38.29% 2 To renew the authority to allot equity securities 204,235,770 94.29% 12,375,275 5.71% 1 38.29%

Special Resolutions 1 and 2 were passed as special resolutions.

Shareholders are entitled to one vote per share. Votes withheld are not a vote in law and are therefore not counted in the calculation of the percentages of the votes cast for and against a resolution. Where shareholders appointed the Chairman as their proxy with discretion as to voting, their votes were cast in favour of the resolutions and their shares have been included in the "votes for" column.

The total number of ordinary shares of 1p each in issue is 565,664,749, which includes 74,584,448 ordinary shares held in treasury. Treasury shares do not carry voting rights, therefore the total number of voting rights is 491,080,301.

In accordance with LR 9.6.2, a copy of the resolutions passed, other than resolutions concerning ordinary business, at today's AGM will be submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will be available for inspection at https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism.

Enquiries:

Nick Montgomery / Matthew Riley

Schroder Investment Management Limited

Tel: 020 7658 6000



Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

The Company Secretary

Trafalgar Court

Les Banques

St Peter Port

Guernsey

GY1 3QL

Tel: 01481 745001
(Data have been the subject to a limited review by the statutory auditors)

The Board of Directors, at its meeting of September 8, 2021, made up the half-year statutory and consolidated financial statements.

In thousands of euros 2021 2020 Variation Sales(1) 189,931 253,633 -25.1%(2) Operating income -11,039 1,496 N/A Net income - group share -9,514 -975 N/A Cash flow(3) -2,835 46,101 N/A Net investments 9,467 10,930 -13.4% Net cash position 212,131 215,757 -1.7%

(1) The main information on the variation of the half-year sales were the subject of a financial statement on July 20, 2021 (https://www.boironfinance.fr/en/releases/sales).

(2) - 23.4 % at constant exchange rate.

(3) Before cash revenue, financing expenses and corporate income tax.

Change in group revenues

Following a sharp 41.8% decline in the first quarter, revenues were up 1.8% in the second quarter. Total sales in the first half were down 25.1%, due to the delisting of homeopathic medicines in France and the global health crisis.

Sales of new products amounted to approximately 15 million in the first half.

Profitability trend

Operating income in the first half was down 12,535 thousand compared to last year, amounting to a loss of 11,039 thousand.

Before the impact of reorganization costs in France, operating income was down 39,255 thousand, amounting to a loss of 10,068 thousand.

in thousands of euros 2021 2020 Operating income - 11,039 1,496 Net impact of reorganization in France -971 -27,691 Operating income before impact of reorganization - 10,068 29,187 % of sales - 5.3% 11.5%

The decrease in operating income before the impact of reorganization is due to the 58,813 thousand decline in the gross margin, directly relating to the significant decrease in revenues.

Conversely, operating income before impact of reorganisation benefited from:

the ongoing reduction in operating expenses, generating 17,933 thousand in additional savings. The biggest savings were made on:

preparation and distribution costs in the amount of 11,484 thousand, particularly staff costs following the gradual implementation of the reorganization plan in France,

promotional costs in the amount of 2,992 thousand, in particular advertising expenses,

and support functions, in the amount of 2,030 thousand.

a capital gain of 1,626 thousand following the sale of two sites.

Reorganization plan

In France, under the reorganization announced in 2020, twelve preparation and distribution sites closed their doors in the first half, resulting in the departure of 318 employees. The reorganization of the fifteen remaining sites and closure of the Montrichard site on December 31 will result in the departure of 124 more employees. All employees affected will benefit from the support measures provided for in the agreement signed with the trade unions.

A 6,218 thousand expense was recorded in the first half of 2021 in relation to the reorganization, 4,810 thousand of which was provisioned in 2020, under applicable accounting standards.

Outlook

We expect to see a further decline in sales of non-proprietary medicines in the second half of the year versus 2020, following the delisting of homeopathic medicines in France.

Specialty sales are forecast to improve, although this will depend on the duration and extent of the health crisis.

We expect to see a significant decline in revenues over the year.

Full-year operating income will benefit from the comparison effect of the reorganization in France provisioned in 2020, as well as initial savings generated by the reorganization and continued savings on operating expenses.

It will also be boosted by the positive contribution of new product sales.

As such, we expect to post positive annual operating income, however down compared to 2020.

We continue to do our utmost to maintain access to homeopathic medicines for all patients and to promote homeopathy around the world.

Laboratoires BOIRON

The half-year accounts were subjected to a limited review by statutory auditors. The half-year report including information on activities and results of the first half-year and the 2021 outlook was published in line with the provisions of Article 221-3 of the French Financial Market Authority. It is available on the company's website (https://www.boironfinance.fr/en/financial-information/half-year-reports).

Additional information on the half-year results can be found in the slides presented at the information meeting of Thursday September 9, 2021 and available on the company's website (https://www.boironfinance.fr/en/financial-information/half-year-reports).

Our next update: October 21, 2021, at market close, publication of quarterly sales and financial information as of September 30, 2021.

Person responsible for financial information: Valerie Lorentz-Poinsot.

Contact for financial information: Fabrice Rey.

Investor relations: +33 (0) 4.37.41.84.01 - e-mail: boironfinances@boiron.fr

ISIN Code: FR0000061129 (BOI) - Bloomberg: BOI FP - Reuters: BOIR.PA

The group's financial information and the glossary are online at: www.boironfinance.com

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Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Singapore, Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - BitDATA Exchange (BitEx) Singapore, a homegrown regulated crypto assets exchange, continues to enhance its platform with a user-centric mobile app as part of the growth strategy. Following the launch of the BitEx online trading platform (www.bitex.sg) in Q3 2021, the mobile app will further strengthen BitEx's position as one of the emerging crypto assets exchanges in Singapore as well as to cater to the rapidly growing clientele list.

The central bank and financial regulatory authority of Singapore, Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has granted BitEx an exemption from holding a license under the Payment Services Act ("PS Act") for providing digital payment token services.

A trusted name to institutional partners and High-Net-Worth-Individuals, the mobile app will serve a wider audience in the local market as it allows users to purchase crypto assets in SGD as well as performing fast deposit and withdrawal on the app. "The consumers in Singapore are very sophisticated and the BitEx app is designed to meet their needs. We are consistently working towards providing better user experience and optimising the app for fuss-free navigation within one Fiat-to-Crypto trading platform" said Ken Wong, BitEx Founder and CEO.

In compliance with Singapore's MAS regulatory guidelines, BitEx has established a monitoring system and policies to combat any unusual or fraudulent activities on its trading platform. With stringent on-boarding protocols in place, coupled with its robust Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) policies, BitEx has successfully established confidence in institutional partners.

The homegrown crypto assets exchange is working closely with other regulated entities to construct an ecosystem for the Fiat-to-Crypto platform to scale vertically, such as Xfers, the e-money issuance service provider. There are upcoming plans to develop electronic transactions with crypto-related payment modes.

Apart from the stringent on-boarding assessment, Singapore Personal Access (SingPass) log-in verification is incorporated into the log-in process to ensure secure and reliable service delivery. "We are indeed honoured to have very supportive partners and this is not surprising because Singapore is one of the Blockchain Hotspots in the world," Ken added.

BitEx is expanding its operations in Singapore and unfolding more milestones in Q4 2021. It will also open up career opportunities in various verticals including sales, compliance, and analyst roles to support the growth of the business.

BitEx app is now available for download at the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About BitDATA Exchange (BitEx)

Your Trusted Portal for The Crypto-Asset World.

Proudly founded in Singapore, BitDATA Exchange (BitEx) is built to provide an institutional-grade experience for our clients to trade crypto assets, including Bitcoin, Ethereum & Litecoin. BitEx's purpose is to be a portal that brings together the world of crypto assets and finance for investors, traders, and crypto-enthusiasts. The BitEx trading platform is backed by cutting-edge technology to facilitate efficient high trading volume. We pay special attention to our clients by providing a user-centric portal with state-of-the-art security and a streamlined user experience. We are granted an exemption from holding a license under the Payment Services Act ("PS Act") for providing digital payment token service by The Monetary Authority of Singapore. (MAS). BitEx is also a member of the Singapore Fintech Association (SFA), the Association of Cryptocurrency Enterprises and Start-ups Singapore (ACCESS), and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI). For more information, visit www.bitex.sg.

Media Contacts

Vivien Wong

Media & Public Relations Manager

Email: vivien@bitex.sg

This release is meant for reference only. Consider doing your own research before making financial decisions related to any crypto company.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96008


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - United Airlines employees who are unvaccinated for several reasons, including religious exemptions, will be put on temporary, unpaid personal leave effective October 2, 2021, according a memo to the employees.



United became the first major U.S. airline to impose vaccine mandate for its 67,000 U.S. employees or risk being fired. However, the airline had said it will make exemptions for religious, personal or health reasons.



The airline has now said that all employees who get an exemption, regardless of their role in the company will be on temporary, unpaid personal leave until specific safety measures for unvaccinated employees are instituted by the airline.



The airline added that this was necessitated as the state of the COVID pandemic in the U.S. has worsened since the August 6 vaccine mandate announcement.



COVID infections are up 20 percent with new cases rising in almost every part of the country. There are close to 100,000 people in the hospital, and an average of 1,500 people are dying from COVID every day. All these statistics apply almost exclusively to the unvaccinated.



The airline wrote, 'We are working hard to ensure the safety of our employees and customers while accommodating those employees who have sincerely held religious beliefs. Each submission for accommodation will be reviewed individually and will comply with any applicable collective bargaining agreement.'



The company said if an employee's exemption is denied, they will be required to get fully vaccinated within five weeks from the date of the denial notice and have to get their first shot by September 27. If the employee does get their first shot by September 27, or do not get fully vaccinated within five weeks from the date of the denial notice, the employee will be separated from the company.



Meanwhile, all employees whose request is approved will be placed on temporary, unpaid personal leave from October 2, while specific safety measures for unvaccinated employees are instituted. United is in the process of developing and implementing safety protocols for the variety of work areas and locations across the system.



The airline added that it can no longer allow unvaccinated people back into the workplace until it better understands how they might interact with the customers and their vaccinated co- workers.



Once the pandemic meaningfully recedes, the employee will be welcomed back to the team on active status, which may include other, safety-related workplace measures that do not exist today, the airline noted.



While the airline expects to provide an update regarding the timing for return from temporary, unpaid personal leave by mid-October, the employees official return to work date might be significantly later. The airline warned that any violation of the safety protocols made as part of this mandate will mean discipline up to and including termination.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

UNITED AIRLINES-Aktie komplett kostenlos handeln - auf Smartbroker.de
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Nuinsco Resources Limited ("Nuinsco" or the "Company") (CSE:NWI) today announced an eighth successive intersection of 100m or more of Critical Elements and phosphate mineralization at its 100%-owned Prairie Lake project near Terrace Bay, Ontario with the receipt of analyses producing a 122.7m intersection in DDH NP0807.

"The ongoing drill core sampling program (the "Program") at Prairie Lake continues to produce exceptional mineralized widths that are defining a very extensive domain of much sought-after rare earth elements, niobium, tantalum and phosphate," said Paul Jones, Nuinsco's CEO. "Our intent is to use the results from the Program to upgrade the existing Exploration Target ("ET") to a resource in the near term."

The mineralization of economic interest contained within the Prairie Lake intrusion occurs at surface and extends to unknown depths below the deepest drilling conducted to date (circa 500m vertically). There is no indication that mineralization diminishes with depth and the eight intersections from the Program reported to date occur over an interval of 530m, oriented southeast-northwest, in the Southwest ("SW") Area (see map below). The Prairie Lake complex hosts a suite of elements of economic interest identified as Critical Elements defined under the Canadian Minerals and Metals Plan ("CMMP") contained within the very large domain of mineralized rock that is extremely favourably located from a logistical perspective with rail, road, shipping, and power infrastructure already established. Prairie Lake hosts a number of elements and compounds of economic interest including those for which demand is projected to substantially increase and for which secure supply chains are sought.

Analytical results from the 122.7 metres of continuous mineralization (from 2.3-125m) of niobium (Nb), tantalum (Ta), phosphate (P2O5), and rare earth elements (REE) including lanthanum (La), cerium (Ce), samarium (Sm), neodymium (Nd) and yttrium (Y) - analytical results are tabulated below. Eighteen drill-holes have been sampled to date as part of the Program, focussing on drill-holes collared to intercept the SW area which measures 1km in length and is between 150m and 750m wide at surface. The SW area alone hosts 435-530 million tonnes of the total 515-630 million tonne ET, with grades as tabulated in the "Prairie Lake ET" table below.

Hole ID From

(m) To

(m) Width

(m) Rock

Type* P2O5

(%) Nb2O5

(%) Ta2O5

(%) Y

(g/t) La

(g/t) Ce

(g/t) Nd

(g/t) Sm

(g/t) REE

(g/t) New intersections: NP0807 2.3 9.88 7.58 SILCARB 4.60 0.028 0.004 111 407 1057 614 111 2300 15.1 21.73 6.63 PYX 1.80 0.179 0.003 47 159 374 181 33 794 38.5 87.64 49.14 CRBT/PYX 2.64 0.154 0.002 70 194 470 242 45 1022 98 110 12 PYX/CRBT 2.17 0.120 0.003 75 208 487 254 49 1073 Combined extended intersection: NP0807 2.3 125 122.7 3.20 0.145 0.0018 81 233 576 281 54 1225

Principal rock type: CRBT=carbonatite; IJ-PYX BX = breccia with crbt matrix & ijolite or pyroxenite clasts; MEL-IJ = melano-ijolite.

REE = Sum of Y, La, Ce, Nd, Sm; Y - yttrium, La - lanthanum, Ce - cerium, Nd - neodymium, Sm - samarium.

P2O5 - phosphate, Nb2O5 - niobium oxide, Ta2O5 - tantalum oxide, 1g/t = 1 ppm

The Prairie Lake project consists of 46 mineral claims covering an area of ~630 ha. Prairie Lake is superbly located, easily accessed by an all-weather road from the TransCanada Highway located 28 kilometres to the south. The ET is defined by 59 diamond drill holes.

All samples were analysed by Activation Laboratories (ActLabs) in Ancaster, Ontario. Samples were analysed for a whole rock and trace element ICP analytical package as well as for niobium, tantalum, and zirconium oxides using a fusion XRF method. An internal Quality Control Quality Assurance (QAQC) program was implemented with four QAQC samples (blanks and reference standards) added into the sampling stream.

Prairie Lake Drilling & Trenching by Target Area1:

SW Jim's Showing East NE Other Areas Total Historic Drill Holes (1969-1983) Drill Holes 16 11 1 0 17 45 Metres 1351.7 938.4 34.1 0 1528.5 3852.7 Drill Holes (2007-2010) Drill Holes 21 10 0 0 1 32 Metres 6632 1692.4 0 0 101 8425.4 Trenches (2010) Trenching 1 0 2 2 0 5 Metres 377.7 0 433.0 754.55 0 1562.2

1 Trench lengths are calculated as cumulative length of samples along trench.

Prairie Lake ET2:

SW Jim's Showing East NE Total REEs La (ppm) Lanthanum 275 - 340 295 - 360 305 - 370 200 - 250 280 - 340 Ce (ppm) Cerium 650 - 790 670 - 820 670 - 820 450 - 550 650 - 790 Sm (ppm) Samarium 55 - 70 55 - 70 55 - 70 50 - 60 55 - 70 Nd (ppm) Neodymium 295 - 360 290 - 360 320 - 390 235 - 290 300 - 360 Y (ppm) Yttrium 85 - 100 90 - 110 80 - 100 135 - 170 85 - 100 La+Ce+Sm+Nd+Y (ppm) 1360 - 1660 1400 - 1720 1430 - 1750 1070 - 1320 1370 - 1660 Additional Elements (as oxides) P2O5 (%) Phosphate 3.0 - 4.0 3.5 - 4.5 2.5 - 3.0 2.5 - 3.5 3.0 - 4.0 Nb2O5 (%) Niobium 0.095 - 0.115 0.100 - 0.120 0.040 - 0.050 0.085 - 0.105 0.090 - 0.110 Ta2O5 (ppm) Tantalum 18 - 25 25 - 30 5 - 7 10 - 12 18 - 21 Volume - m3 (million) 140 - 175 12 - 14 13 - 16 2 - 3 170 - 210 Tonnes (million) 435 - 530 35 - 45 40 - 50 7 - 8 515 - 630

2 A full description of methodology used to estimate the Prairie Lake Project Exploration Target is contained in the Technical Report dated 30 November 2018 prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc. that is filed on SEDAR. The potential quantity and grade of the ET is conceptual in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource. It is uncertain if further exploration will result in the discovery of a mineral resource. There is no National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects preliminary economic assessment in respect of the Prairie Lake ET.

Laura Giroux, P.Geo, Chief Geologist, acts as Nuinsco's Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101. Ms. Giroux has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release.

About Nuinsco Resources Limited

Nuinsco Resources has over 50 years of exploration success and is a growth-oriented, multi-commodity mineral exploration and development company focused on prospective opportunities in Canada and internationally. Currently the Company has four properties in Ontario - the high-grade Sunbeam gold property near Atikokan, the Dash Lake gold property near Terrace Bay, the large multi-commodity (rare-earths, niobium, tantalum, phosphate) Prairie Lake project near Terrace Bay, and the Zig Zag Lake property (lithium, tantalum) near Armstrong. In addition, Nuinsco has an agreement for gold exploitation at the El Sid project in the Eastern Desert of Egypt.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements." All statements, other than statements of historic fact, that address activities, events or developments that Nuinsco believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "plan," "estimate, "expect," and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may," "will," "can," "should," "could," or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of Nuinsco based on information currently available to Nuinsco. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results of Nuinsco to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on Nuinsco. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things, failure to successfully complete financings, capital and other costs varying significantly from estimates, production rates varying from estimates, changes in world copper and/or gold markets, changes in equity markets, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, equipment failure, unexpected geological conditions, imprecision in resource estimates, success of future development initiatives, competition, operating performance of facilities, environmental and safety risks, delays in obtaining or failure to obtain tenure to properties and/or necessary permits and approvals, and other development and operating risks. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Nuinsco disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although Nuinsco believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and accordingly undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to the inherent uncertainty therein.

To learn more, please visit www.nuinsco.ca or contact:

Paul Jones, CEO

paul.jones@nuinsco.ca

Sean Stokes, Executive VP

sean.stokes@nuinsco.ca

Cathy Hume, Consultant

cathy@chfir.com

Instagram: @nuinscoresources

Twitter: @NWIResources

SOURCE: Nuinsco Resources Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663358/Nuinsco-Announces-Eighth-Intersection-of-More-than-100m-of-Continuous-Critical-Elements-Phosphate-Mineralization-at-Prairie-Lake
DUBAI, UAE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai today announces PETRONAS as its premier partner for the World Expo that will take place from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022.

With its aspiration to be a progressive energy and solutions partner, the national energy company's participation aligns perfectly with the Pavilion's "Energising Sustainability" theme.

As climate change becomes one of the most important priorities for the global community, Expo 2020 Dubai is a good platform for PETRONAS to showcase its sustainability aspirations and roadmap to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050.

Themed "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," the World Expo will be participated by 192 countries and organisations. This quinquennial mega event aims to promote global cooperation, innovation, technological development, human progress and education, and will be held for the first time in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region.

"The growing momentum for us to transition to low carbon is imperative and we are proud to have one of Malaysia's most successful homegrown brands, PETRONAS, to be part of Malaysia's representation at the World Expo. PETRONAS' accomplishments throughout the years and its commitment to help shape climate action beyond its immediate sphere of influence bolsters the nation's credibility in sustainability," said Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC).

He added that corporations are needed to go further to help build a carbon neutral future for everyone and that he was optimistic that strong partnerships would help move the world closer to a more energy efficient future for all.

Malaysia's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai is led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation with MGTC as implementing agency.

"Our partnership with Malaysia Pavilion gives us the opportunity to showcase PETRONAS' commitment and holistic approach to sustainability. We are embracing the need to chart a more sustainable path forward, and drive the maturity of our Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) practices as well as realising our Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050 aspiration," said Tengku Muhammad Taufik, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS.

"We will continue our efforts in our operational excellence and through innovative partnerships to create cleaner energy solutions towards building a carbon neutral future for all."

PETRONAS will have a dedicated exhibition area for a period of six months inside the Pavilion featuring a 3D animated effect presentation on its sustainability journey, ventures into new energy and innovative solutions. The visually stunning animation in a giant suspended cube will be a permanent feature throughout the entire Expo 2020 Dubai. This exhibit aims to inspire visitors with the energy company's vision of a better future through its innovative technologies to provide access to cleaner, affordable, secure, and sustainable energy for all.

The company is also expected to take part in panel discussions and business meetings with foreign dignitaries and business leaders at the Pavilion, while also participating in thought leadership forums.

"PETRONAS' participation as premier partner catalyses our efforts to encourage other Malaysian businesses to leverage Expo 2020 to build their brands' visibility at a global platform," added Shamsul Bahar. "While providing an avenue for corporations to join in on the conversation, our objective is also to position Malaysia as a sustainable and future-ready investment hub that is committed to improving how we do business on the day to day."

Malaysia Pavilion is designed as a "Rainforest Canopy." The various segments of the Pavilion house permanent displays and exhibits that reflect Malaysia's unique and steadfast commitment to sustainable development.

The Pavilion will host weekly thematic trade and business programmes which will encompass over 10 industry verticals. They include education, youth & technopreneurship, trade, Industry 4.0 & smart manufacturing, science, technology and innovation, environment & water, sustainable agriculture & agricommodities, healthcare, tourism & culture, energy, e-commerce & ICT, halal industry and Islamic finance.

Expo 2020 will officially open on 1 October 2021. Malaysians will have the chance to visit the Pavilion via a virtual platform that will be announced later.

ABOUT MALAYSIA PAVILION AT EXPO 2020 DUBAI

Malaysia will be among 192 countries participating in Expo 2020 Dubai, scheduled for 1 Oct. 2021 to 31 March 2022. Themed "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," the world expo is the first to be held in the Middle East, Africa & South Asia region.

Malaysia's pavilion is self-built and depicts a Rainforest Canopy. It carries the theme "Energising Sustainability" to capture the nation's commitment and approaches to sustainable development. It is a net zero carbon pavilion.

Malaysia's activities during the expo will include permanent displays, showcases, pocket talks, summits and forums, cultural performances, demonstrations and 26 weekly thematic trade and business programmes. The business weeks will be helmed and supported by 21 ministries, 69 agencies and 5 state governments, with over 200 companies participating as business delegates.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is the lead ministry for Malaysia's participation at the mega event. Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC) is the implementing agency.

ABOUT MALAYSIAN GREEN TECHNOLOGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE CENTRE

Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC) is an agency under the Ministry of Environment and Water whose scope involves green growth, climate change and sustainable lifestyle.

Three national policies - the National Green Technology Policy (NGTP), the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP) and the Green Technology Master Plan (GTMP) - outline MGTC's role as a catalyst for green economic growth.

Its three core roles are:

Mainstreaming the Green Economy through green product and service expansion programmes such as MyHIJAU Mark Certification Programme, Green Technology Financing Scheme (GTFS) and green technology tax incentives, namely the Green Income Tax Exemption (GITE) and Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA), besides providing training and human capital development schemes.

Drive climate change mitigation actions such as advocacy for energy efficiency and renewable energy, low carbon city programmes and low carbon mobility initiatives.

Cultivate a green lifestyle through publicity and awareness programmes in fostering cooperation between the government and private sectors via global-scale platforms such as the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) and other public programmes.

For enquiries, please contact: Jane at tel: +6019 3871991 or email at: malaysiaexpo2020media@mgtc.gov.my.
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Cortus Metals Inc. (TSXV: CRTS) (OTCQB: CRTTF) ("Cortus" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that its common shares are now listed for trading in the United States on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol "CRTTF". The Company has additionally secured Depository Trust Company ("DTC") eligibility for its common shares traded in the United States. The Company profile can be viewed at the OTC Market website at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/CRTTF/quote where North American and international investors can find Real-Time level 2 quotes (denominated in US dollars) along with current market information and Company news. Cortus' common shares will continue to trade in Canada on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") under the symbol "CRTS" and primary reporting for public disclosure will continue to be found under the company profile at www.sedar.com.

Cortus CEO, Sean Mager commented: "There is strong interest in Cortus from US-based retail and institutional investors as we continue to define high-priority drill targets and advance our portfolio of 20+ highly prospective epithermal and Carlin-type gold-silver properties in Nevada. Our new OTCQB listing with DTC eligibility now provides exemptions from U.S state securities laws or "Blue Sky" exemptions which will enable US-based investment advisors to research and recommend investment in Cortus. It will also enable US-based investors to execute orders with greater ease on many popular trading platforms such as Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, Charles Schwab, TradeStation, FirstTrade, Interactive Brokers and E-Trade where access to Cortus' common shares listed on the TSXV may have been limited previously."

About the OTCQB

The OTCQB Venture Market is recognized by the Securities and Exchange Commission as an established public market providing public information for analysis. An OTCQB listing offers early-stage and developing U.S. and international companies the benefits of being publicly traded in the U.S. with lower cost and complexity than a U.S. exchange listing. Streamlined market standards enable Canadian companies to provide a strong baseline of transparency to inform and engage U.S. investors. To be eligible, Canadian companies must be current in their SEDAR reporting and undergo an annual verification and management certification process. As a verified market with efficient access for U.S. investors, OTCQB helps companies build shareholder value with the goal of enhancing liquidity and achieving a fair valuation.

OTC Markets Group Inc., located in New York, N.Y., operates the world's largest electronic inter-dealer quotation system for broker dealers to trade US-based and global securities. It operates the OTCQX Best Market, the OTCQB Venture Market, and the Pink Open Market for over 11,000 U.S. and global securities. Through OTC Link ATS, it connects a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services, enabling investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empowering companies to improve the quality of information available for investors. To learn more about how OTC Markets creates better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

About the Depository Trust Company

The Depository Trust Company is a subsidiary of The Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation and manages the electronic clearing and settlement of publicly traded companies. Securities that are eligible to be electronically cleared and settled through the DTC are considered "DTC eligible". This electronic method of clearing securities speeds up the receipt of stock and cash, and thus accelerates the settlement process for investors trading the Company's shares on the OTCQB with reduced costs for U.S. investors and brokers, enabling the Company's common shares to be traded through a much wider selection of firms through an electronic method of clearing securities.

About Cortus Metals Inc.

Cortus Metals Inc. (TSXV: CRTS) (OTCQB: CRTTF) is a new Canadian mineral exploration company with a portfolio of 20+ highly prospective early-stage gold and silver projects in the basins of Nevada and an innovative project accelerator strategy to advance them to fruition. Generally, the projects are located near operating mines or known deposits, and on the same hosting fault structure. Cortus' team of experts uses systematic methods and proprietary data to target significant epithermal and Carlin-type mineralization beneath shallow cover. We provide investors with exceptional opportunities to capitalize on our potential to discover gold-silver deposits of >1-million-ounces in a perennially top-ranked mining jurisdiction. Our mandate is to collaborate with third parties to complete drill programs of 2,000-4,000 metres, with Cortus retaining a significant interest in the outcomes. Our projects are available for acquisition via sale, option and/or joint venture mechanisms. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.cortusmetals.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

s/ "Sean Mager"

Sean Mager, Chief Executive Officer

Email: seanm@cortusmetals.com

Telephone: +1.780.701.3215

Cortus Metals Inc. is part of the Metals Group of Companies, managed by an award-winning team of professionals who stand for technical excellence, painstaking project selection and uncompromising corporate governance, with a proven ability to identify and capitalize on investment opportunities and deliver shareholder returns.

Forward-Looking Information

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This News Release includes certain "forward-looking statements". Although the Company believes that assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including without limitation, future plans and objectives of the Company, are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release. No assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96009.
In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this Philippines data center market report.

CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Philippines data center market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 11.40% during the period 2020-2026. Philippines data center market research report includes market size in terms of area, investment, power capacity, and colocation revenues. Get insights on 20 existing and 2 upcoming facilities spread across 6 Cities, including Manila and other cities including Cavite, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Manila, and Taguig.

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

1.The Philippines is an emerging market in Southeast Asia, with growth in the online gaming industry, emergence of the BPO industry, increased adoption of cloud, big data, and IoT, as well as cybersecurity and business continuity requirements driving the market over the next few years.

2.The Philippines receives majority of the data center service demand from ICT companies, followed by FMCG companies, BFSI, with hospitality, education, travel, and other industries accounting for the rest of the demand.

3.Manila is the leading data center market in Philippines, with 12 unique third-party data center facilities accounting for over 75% of the existing power capacity in the country.

4. PLDT and Globe Telecom deployed 5G network in the Philippines in 2020, which is likely to increase investments for data centers in coming years, especially the establishment of edge data center sites.

5. The Department of Energy in Philippines has set new renewable energy targets in its latest version of the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP). The program targets to achieve more than 37% renewable energy in the overall energy mix by 2030 and more than 55% by 2040.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Area, Power Capacity, Investment, and Colocation Revenue | 2020-2026

Impact of COVID-19 on Data Center Market

Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party facilities in the Philippines

Facilities Covered (Existing): 20



Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 2



Coverage: 2+ Cities



Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area)



Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Data center colocation market in the Philippines

Market Revenue & Forecast (2020-2026)



Retail Colocation Pricing

Market Dynamics - Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation - A detailed analysis by IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standard

Key Market Participants - List of 12 IT infrastructure providers, 6 construction service providers, 13 support infrastructure providers, and 6 data center investors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/philippines-data-center-market-investment-analysis

Philippines Data Center Market - Segmentation

In the Philippines , cloud-based services, IoT, and AI are the major driving factors for the growth of data centers and the adoption of high-power computing servers. ICT and financial service providers dominate server adoption in the Philippines . Vendors such as NetApp, Lenovo, IBM, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have a strong presence in the market.

, cloud-based services, IoT, and AI are the major driving factors for the growth of data centers and the adoption of high-power computing servers. ICT and financial service providers dominate server adoption in . Vendors such as NetApp, Lenovo, IBM, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have a strong presence in the market. Diesel generators are the most used generators in the market because of their configuration to support higher power capacity during outages. DRUPS solutions are likely to witness increase in demand for data centers with multiple modules, having a total capacity of up to 2 MW and N+N or 2N redundant configurations.

Data center operators are likely to adopt water-based cooling as the region does not support free cooling. ePLDT and NTT Communications data centers across the country have adopted water cooling systems with N+1 redundancy.

Market Segmentation by IT Infrastructure

Servers

Storage Systems

Network Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer, Switches & Switchgears

Rack PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Rack Cabinets

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by General Construction

Building Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building Design

Physical Security

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Market Segmentation by Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

Philippines Data Center Market - Dynamics

The Philippines is considered one of the emerging markets in Southeast Asia, with multiple technology companies planning to build data centers in the country. In 2021, Alibaba announced that it will launch a new data center facility in the Philippines by the end of the year. The facility will offer Elastic Compute Service (ECS), database, global network solution, Content Delivery Network (CDN), and storage services. The market is likely to witness the entry of Stratus DC Management, which plans data center development in Manila, Philippines, owing to the anticipatory demand for data centers by enterprises and cloud service providers looking to collocate their workloads. In 2021, Converge ICT Solutions announced its plans to build a new data center in Mandaue, Philippines, by investing over USD 20 million. The facility (P1) will be a six-story building and will initially have 300 racks.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Increased Cloud Adoption to Boost Market Growth

Big Data & IoT Spending to Drive Data Center Investment

COVID-19 to Boost Data Center Development

Submarine Cables to Strengthen Connectivity

Philippines Data Center Market - Existing Vs. Upcoming Data Centers

Existing Facilities in the region(Area and Power Capacity)

Manila



Other Cities (Cavite, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Manila , and Taguig)

List of Upcoming Facilities in the region(Area and Power Capacity)

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/philippines-data-center-market-investment-analysis

Key Market Participants

IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Oracle

Data Center Construction Contractors & Sub-Contractors

Arup

Aurecon Group

Comfac

Data Center Design Corporation (DCDC)

First Balfour

PRONET

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Cyber Power Systems

Eaton

Fuji Electric

KOHLER

Legrand

Mitsubishi Electric

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Schneider Electric

Touchcore Solutions

Vertiv Group

Data Center Investors

Beeinfotech

Bitstop Network Services

Converge ICT Solutions

DITO Telecommunity

ePLDT

Globe Telecom

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Vietnam Data Center Market - Investment Analysis & Growth Opportunities 2021-2026

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Indonesia Data Center Market - Investment Analysis and Growth Opportunities 2021-2026

Malaysia Data Center Market - Investment Analysis and Growth Opportunities 2021-2026

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We offer comprehensive market research reports on industries such as consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, and life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals and materials, IT and media, logistics and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

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Regulatory News:

Valbiotis (FR0013254851 ALVAL, PEA/SME eligible) (Paris:ALVAL), a Research and Development company committed to scientific innovation for preventing and combating metabolic diseases, announces the release of the latest issue of its Letter to Shareholders, for 2021.

In this Letter to Shareholders:

A message from Sebastien PELTIER, CEO, Chairman of the Valbiotis Management Board;

A summary of the Company's latest news;

An update on the progress of the active substances development plan.

The Letter to shareholders can be consulted in the "Investors" area of the Valbiotis website, in the "Shareholder area" section.

To receive the next editions, shareholders are invited to register here.

About Valbiotis

Valbiotis is a Research Development company committed to scientific innovation for the treatment and prevention of metabolic diseases in response to unmet medical needs.

Valbiotis has adopted an innovative approach, aiming to revolutionize healthcare by developing a new class of health nutrition products designed to reduce the risk of major metabolic diseases, based on a multi-target approach enabled by the use of plant-based ingredients.

Its products are intended to be licensed to players in the health sector.

Created at the beginning of 2014 in La Rochelle, the Company has forged numerous partnerships with leading academic centers. The Company has established three sites in France Perigny, La Rochelle (17) and Riom (63) and a subsidiary in Quebec City (Canada).

Valbiotis is a member of the "BPI Excellence" network and has been recognized as an "Innovative Company" by the BPI label. Valbiotis has also been awarded "Young Innovative Company" status and has received major financial support from the European Union for its research programs via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Valbiotis is a PEA-SME eligible company.

For more information about Valbiotis, please visit: www.valbiotis.com

Name: Valbiotis

ISIN code: FR0013254851

Mnemonic code: ALVAL

EnterNext PEA-PME 150

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Valbiotis' objectives. Valbiotis considers that these projections are based on rational hypotheses and the information available to Valbiotis at the present time. However, in no way does this constitute a guarantee of future performance, and these projections may be affected by changes in economic conditions and financial markets, as well as certain risks and uncertainties, including those described in the Valbiotis Universal Registration Document approved by the French Financial Markets Regulator (AMF) on July 27, 2021 (application number R 21-039). This document is available on the Company's website (www.valbiotis.com).

This press release and the information it contains do not constitute an offer to sell or subscribe, or a solicitation to purchase or subscribe to Valbiotis' shares or financial securities in any country.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005474/en/

Contacts:

Corporate communication Valbiotis

Carole ROCHER Marc DELAUNAY

+33 5 46 28 62 58

media@valbiotis.com

Financial communication Actifin

Stephane RUIZ

+33 1 56 88 11 14

sruiz@actifin.fr
CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this US hyperscale data center market report.

The US hyperscale data center market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 3.30% during the period 2020-2026.

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

The US is the largest hyperscale data center market globally and contributed to over 45% of the global investment in 2020. Digitalization initiatives such as cloud adoption, 5G deployment, adoption of IoT and big data across businesses, along with government initiatives, and renewable energy adoption will continue to grow hyperscale data center investments in the country. The US market witnessed significant investments from hyperscale data center operators such as Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and Apple, as well as colocation service providers such as Equinix, Digital Realty, NTT Global Data Centers, QTS Realty Trust, and CyrusOne in 2020. Within the US, South-Eastern US is the investment hotspot, receiving over 35% of the overall hyperscale investments received in the US, followed by Western US. Illinois , California , Virginia , Nevada , Texas , and Arizona were the major markets for data center constructions in the US in 2020. Hyperscale operators in the US have taken several initiatives to develop green data centers for the reduction of their carbon footprint. For instance, Microsoft has announced to become carbon neutral by 2030, and has taken major actions in terms of sustainability. AWS has also planned to make its data centers carbon emission-free by 2040. To attract data center investments, many state and local governments have provisioned and offer investments and sales tax incentives, based on economic development, where incentives focused on effective data center operations, and renewable energy procurement are likely to increase over the forecast period.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Investment | 2020-2026

Market Size & Forecast by Area (Sq Feet) | 2020-2026

Market Size & Forecast by Power Capacity (MW) | 2020-2026

Market Size & Forecast by IT Infrastructure | 2020-2026

Market Size & Forecast by Support Infrastructure | 2020-2026

Market Dynamics - Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation - A detailed analysis by infrastructure, IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, cooling systems, cooling technique, general construction, and geography

Competitive Landscape - 31 IT infrastructure providers, 31 support infrastructure providers, 26 construction contractors, 24 data center investors, and 5 new entrants

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-states-hyper-scale-data-center-market

US Hyperscale Data Center Market - Segmentation

The market for server infrastructure has witnessed growth in the past years. Compared to branded vendors such as Dell Technologies, Lenovo, Cisco System, HPE, and Inspur, the procurement of ODM servers by hyperscale data center operators as well as other enterprises is skyrocketing on a YOY basis in the market.

UPS systems that are used in data centers supply AC to critical infrastructure during a power outage by using the current stored in batteries. UPS systems comprise components such as rectifiers to charge the battery and inverters to convert the current from DC to AC for the IT infrastructure.

A few Tier III facilities are also being developed with 2N redundancy for CRAC & CRAH units. The placement of cooling units other than CRAC & CRAH units depends on the facility design and is based on several parameters such as hotspots, circulation of cold and hot air, and implementation of hot/cold aisle containment.

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Infrastructure

IT Infrastructure

Electrical Infrastructure

Mechanical Infrastructure

General Construction

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by IT Infrastructure

Server Infrastructure

Storage Infrastructure

Network Infrastructure

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer Switches & Switchgears

PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Racks

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Cooling Systems

CRAC & CRAH Units

Chiller Units

Cooling Towers, Condensers, & Dry Coolers

Economizers & Evaporative Coolers

Other Cooling Units

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Cooling Technique

Air-Based Cooling Technique

Liquid-Based Cooling Technique

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by General Construction

Core & Shell Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building & Engineering Design

Physical Security

DCIM/BMS

US Hyperscale Data Center Market - Dynamics

The demand for data centers rose as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This heightened access to Internet-related services, aided by nationwide lockdowns. Organizations across IT services, BFSI, hospitals, and education, initiated remote working for their employees. During COVID-19, even government agencies adopted cloud-based services, wherein confidential data of the state is stored securely. The education sector's dependence on online operations increased, where files such as projects, marks cards, and other documents are being shared on the institution's portal or mail. The need for video conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Webex, and Google Meet is at an all-time high, with most enterprises conducting meetings, interviews, and other day-to-day tasks through such online platforms. Owing to the increased adoption of digitalization, a significant amount of data was created. Hospitals were one of the major sources of data generation, where patient history and data on people with travel history from outside of the US were tracked.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Deployment of Microgrids in Hyperscale Data Centers

Innovative Data Center Technologies

5G Deployment & Hyperscale Data Centers

Rising Investment in Hyperscale Data Centers

US Hyperscale Data Center Market - Geography

The South-Eastern US data center market attracted significant investments from enterprise and cloud service providers such as Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, and Google in 2020. For instance, Facebook invested around USD 5.25 billion in South-Eastern US in 2020. Companies such as Google, Apple, and Core Scientific invested over USD 1.1 billion in the South-Eastern US market in 2020. AWS plans to invest over USD 200 million in the development of a data center in Virginia to expand its footprint in the region. In addition to self-built data centers, hyperscale data center operators are among the largest customers for colocation service providers in the region. Facebook is planning to invest around USD 1 billion in its Henrico, Virginia data center campus that has recently been accounted for. Also, it plans to invest over USD 3 billion in its Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee data centers, to be live in H2 2021/2022. Google invested around USD 1.2 billion in its Alabama and South Carolina data center facilities, which opened in 2020. Microsoft is planning to construct its East US 3 Azure cloud region in Georgia.

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-states-hyper-scale-data-center-market

US Hyperscale Data Center Market by Geography

South-Eastern US

Western US

South-Western US

Mid-Western US

North-Eastern US

Key IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

AccelStor

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

DataDirect Networks

Dell Technologies

Extreme Networks

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Hitachi Vantara

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Intel Technologies

Infortrend Technology

Inspur

MiTAC Holdings

NetApp

Nimbus Data

Pivot3

Micron Technology

QNAP Systems

Quanta Cloud Technology (Quanta Computer)

Samsung

Super Micro Computer

Synology

VIOLIN (Storcentric)

Juniper Networks

Lenovo

Western Digital

Wiwynn (Wistron Corporation)

Key Support Infrastructure Vendors

ABB

Airedale International Air Conditioning

Asetek

Bloom Energy

Caterpillar

Condair Group

Cormant

Cummins

Cyber Power Systems

Data Aire

Delta Power Solutions

Eaton

FNT Software

Generac Power Systems

Green Revolution Cooling (GRC)

HITEC Power Protection

KOHLER

Legrand

Mitsubishi Electric

Natron Energy

Nlyte Software

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Schneider Electric

STULZ

Rittal

Toshiba

Trane ( Ingersoll Rand )

) Tripp Lite

Vertiv Group

Yanmar

ZincFive

Key Construction Contractors

AECOM

Arup

Balfour Beatty US

BlueScope Construction

Corgan

Clune Construction

DPR Construction

Fortis Construction

Gensler

Gilbane Building Company

Fluor Corporation

HDR Architecture

Holder Construction Group

HITT Contracting

Hoffman Construction

Jacobs Engineering Group

JE Dunn Construction Group

Linesight

M+W Group (Exyte)

Morrison Hershfield

Mortenson

Rogers-O'Brien Construction

Structure Tone (STO Building Group)

Syska Hennessy Group

The Walsh Group

Turner Construction Company

Key Data Center Investors

Apple

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Aligned

Compass Datacenters

CyrusOne

COPT Data Center Solutions

CoreSite Realty

DataBank

Digital Realty

EdgeCore Internet Real Estate

Equinix

Facebook

Flexential

fifteenfortyseven Critical Systems Realty

GIGA Data Centers

Google

H5 Data Centers

Microsoft

NTT Global Data Centers (Ragingwire Data Centers)

Iron Mountain

QTS Realty Trust

Switch

Stack Infrastructure

Vantage Data Centers

New Entrants

Cirrus Data Services

Novva

PointOne

Quantum Loophole

Yondr

Explore our data center knowledge base profile to know more about the industry.

Read some of the top-selling reports:

U.S. Data Center Market - Industry Outlook and Forecast 2021-2026

Hyperscale Data Center Market - Global Outlook and Forecast 2021-2026

Asia-Pacific (APAC) Hyperscale Data Center - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2021-2026

(APAC) Hyperscale Data Center - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2021-2026 APAC Data Center Power Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2021-2026

About Arizton:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovation and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

We offer comprehensive market research reports on industries such as consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, and life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals and materials, IT and media, logistics and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered in generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

Contact:



Mail: enquiry@arizton.com

Call: +1-312-235-2040/ +1 302 469 0707

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Washington, D.C., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Launched today, the One Decision podcast takes you inside the mind of legendary spymaster Sir Richard Dearlove, who led the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), also known as MI6. Co-hosted by veteran journalist Michelle Kosinski, the series interviews world leaders and those whose choices had an international impact. The podcast explores the reasons and often personal risks involved in the most consequential decisions they had to make. Guests on the first season include:

Kyaw Moe Tun , Ambassador of Myanmar to the United Nations on his decision to risk his life-and go rogue.

, Ambassador of Myanmar to the United Nations on his decision to risk his life-and go rogue. Alyssa Farah , former Director of Communications in the Trump White House, faced an ethical decision after the strike against Iranian General Qasem Soleimani.

, former Director of Communications in the Trump White House, faced an ethical decision after the strike against Iranian General Qasem Soleimani. Baroness Cathy Ashton , former High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on taking on a novel diplomatic approach in an effort to move past a bitter war and prevent another one.

, former High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on taking on a novel diplomatic approach in an effort to move past a bitter war and prevent another one. Robert Gallucci , former Assistant Secretary of State for Political Military Affairs on what it's like trying to get North Korea to agree to anything.

, former Assistant Secretary of State for Political Military Affairs on what it's like trying to get North Korea to agree to anything. Richard Pound, former vice-president of the International Olympic Committee, on the decision to hold the next Games in China.

Many of the stories they share have never before been shared in public. Many of Sir Richard's insights and candid assessments have never before been heard. This is a podcast that takes listeners farther and deeper than they ever thought possible without a top secret clearance. Yet, by focusing on just one decision, the conversations avoid getting overly complicated and confusing. This is foreign policy brought out from behind the ambiguities of protocol, pretension, and pundits. It's real and really fascinating.

The podcast is being produced by the Global Situation Room, Inc, which developed the critically acclaimed Pod is a Women, that featured guests including Dr. Jill Biden, Natalie Portman, and Eva Longoria.

All episodes from season one of One Decision are available for download today: podfollow.com/onedecision

About Michelle Kosinski: Michelle Kosinksi is an Emmy award-winning American journalist, writer, and show host.

She served as Senior Diplomatic Correspondent at CNN, covering the State Department; and prior, was White House Correspondent. She was also a foreign correspondent, based in London, for NBC News and a US-based correspondent from 2005 until she left to join CNN's political and national security teams. She wrote and hosted the top-rated news and tech podcast, The Perfect Scam, with Frank Abagnale, the real-life inspiration for the film "Catch Me If You Can."

Michelle has reported from more than 60 countries, including Afghanistan during the US war, Pakistan after the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, and Haiti following the earthquake in 2010. She has covered countless world events such as the Arab Spring, terrorist attacks in Europe, economic crises in Spain and Greece, the death of Nelson Mandela, Hurricane Katrina, and mass shootings in the United States.

About Sir Richard Dearlove: Sir Richard Billing Dearlove KCMG, OBE served as Chief (known as 'C') of the British Secret Intelligence Service (SIS), also known as MI6, from August 1999 until his retirement in July 2004. He was a spy master for thirty-eight years and served in Nairobi, Prague, Paris, Geneva and Washington as well as in a number of key London-based posts.

Sir Richard was elected the Master of Pembroke College, Cambridge, in 2004. Pembroke College, founded in 1347 is the University's third oldest College. During Sir Richard's eleven-year tenure the College was notably successful.

He is now Chair of Trustees of the University of London, a trustee of Kent School, Connecticut, Honorary Fellow of Queens' College Cambridge, adviser to several international companies, Chairman of Ascot Underwriting and a Director of Kosmos Energy.

He is married to Rosalind, Lady Dearlove. They have two sons and a daughter.

Learn more: podfollow.com/onedecision
HOUSTON, Texas, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Solugen , the company decarbonizing the chemicals industry, announced a Series C financing round of over $350 million. GIC and Baillie Gifford led the round with participation from Temasek Holdings, funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, Carbon Direct Capital Management, Refactor Capital, and Fifty Years.

Solugen is addressing one of the biggest climate problems facing the international community, emissions from chemical production, which the IEA estimates accounted for 880 million tonnes of CO2 in 2018 and was the third largest source of global CO2 emissions. Solugen's patented Bioforge processes produce chemicals from bio-based feedstocks and are based on breakthroughs in synthetic biology, metal catalyst engineering, and modular plant design. The company's green products are cost competitive and also drastically reduce or eliminate emissions. Solugen is a platform chemistry company, and the company's solutions will also address clean water, sustainable materials, safer food, and healthy personal care.

"Our breakthroughs in enzyme and metal catalyst engineering allow us to produce chemicals in a more sustainable and profitable way," said Dr. Gaurab Chakrabarti, CEO and co-founder of Solugen. "We can now deliver for our customers performance benefits, cost savings, and most importantly, lower carbon footprints."

The latest round of funding will be used to expand Solugen's Bioforge technology platform, which is used to produce lower-carbon and carbon-negative chemicals & materials for its key customers, and to expand the reach of Solugen's product portfolio. Through its Bioforge platform, Solugen has the potential to address a significant portion of the chemical products on the market today as well as introduce novel, bio-advantaged products. Taken together, this would allow Solugen to decarbonize some of the largest carbon emitting segments of our modern economy.

"This fundraising round allows us to continue expanding the footprint of our Bioforge technology to give industries the products they need to reduce emissions in their existing supply chains, without compromising on performance or economics," said Solugen co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Sean Hunt.

Kirsty Gibson, investment manager at Baillie Gifford said: "Solugen's vision for cleaner chemicals through synthetic biology has the potential to be a fundamental shift in how chemicals are made, to help tackle the environmental challenges we face globally. The chemical market itself is colossal and Solugen is just getting started. Our investment on behalf of clients will help the company execute on this vision and scale its operations."

"Carbon dioxide from chemical production is a top three contributor to industrial greenhouse gas emissions," said Jonathan Goldberg, CEO of Carbon Direct. "Carbon Direct's mission is to help scale impactful carbon management technologies that will commercially scale. Solugen's critical breakthrough is delivering lower and potentially carbon negative solutions that are cost competitive to the market today. We are pleased to support Gaurab, Sean, and the Solugen team as they continue to decarbonize the chemicals industry."

BofA Securities, Inc. acted as sole placement agent on this transaction.

Contacts -

Lana Hansen, Solugen - press@solugen.bio

About Solugen - https://www.solugen.bio/

Solugen's mission is to decarbonize the chemicals industry. Its comprehensive line of environmentally-friendly products help companies be responsible stewards of the environment and their local communities. Founded in 2016 by Gaurab Chakrabarti, M.D., Ph.D., and Sean Hunt, Ph.D., Solugen applies industrial biotechnology and green chemistry principles to re-design the production of a variety of end-use and novel chemicals.
Orphan Drug Designation status granted for CER-001 for Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferase (LCAT) Deficiency as both a renal disease and an ophthalmic disease

Progress in the fully-funded Phase 2a clinical trial, RACERS, evaluating CER-001 in sepsis at high risk of developing acute kidney injury

Regulatory News:

ABIONYX Pharma (Paris:ABNX) (FR0012616852 ABNX PEA PME eligible), a next-generation biotech company dedicated to the discovery and development of innovative therapies, announces its 2021 half year financial results and provides an update on its development activities.

Orphan Drug Designation status granted for CER-001 for LCAT Deficiency as both a renal disease and an ophthalmic disease

Following the receipt of a positive opinion from the Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products (COMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) regarding the Orphan Drug Designation application for its bio-HDL, the company has obtained the Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the European Commission for its drug candidate CER-001, as a potential treatment for LCAT deficiency. Two forms of LCAT deficiency exist: Familial LCAT Deficiency (FLD) resulting from a complete deficiency and clinically characterized by hemolytic anemia, renal failure, most often leading to renal transplantation, and by corneal opacities; and Fish Eye Disease (FED), resulting from a partial deficiency and clinically characterized by corneal opacities without renal involvement. The Orphan Drug Designation obtained therefore covers both a renal and an ophthalmologic indication.

Obtaining the ODD allows for assistance from the EMA with clinical protocol design, access to a centralized marketing authorization procedure valid in all EU member states, the possibility for conditional marketing authorization, reduced regulatory fees, and 10 years of market exclusivity from the time a marketing authorization is granted. In addition to the development advantages of obtaining the ODD, this designation marks a strong and strategic regulatory recognition as the only bio-HDL to receive this status in Europe.

The efficacy of CER-001 was announced last March when positive clinical results were published in the scientific journal "Annals of Internal Medicine" in this rare kidney disease. As a reminder, the patient who was on the verge of dialysis due to the rapid decline of his kidney function was able to avoid the need for dialysis during treatment with CER-001. In addition, the patient who suffered from lipid deposits in the corneas experienced the disappearance of visual blur, a clear improvement in visual function that continued to be observed after 1 year of treatment-free follow-up.

Progress in the Phase 2a clinical trial, RACERS, evaluating CER-001 in sepsis at high risk of developing acute kidney injury

Following the announcement last June of the enrollment of the first patient in the Phase 2a clinical trial evaluating CER-001, the Bio-HDL, as a potential treatment for patients with sepsis at high risk of developing acute kidney injury, RACERS, the study, evaluating the safety and efficacy of CER-001 in a total of 20 patients, continues to advance. The primary endpoints of the study will be the onset and severity of acute kidney injury according to KDIGO criteria, as well as the safety and tolerability of dosing regimens, in order to select the optimal dose of CER-001. The clinical study is being conducted in partnership with the University of Bari and the Consorzio per Valutazioni Biologiche e Farmacologiche (CBVF) and is already fully funded.

Selected Financial Information (at June 30 IFRS Consolidated accounts)

Millions  H1 2021 H1 2020 Sales 0.03 0 R&D expenses (2.03) (0.41) Administrative and commercial expenses (0.58) (0.63) Operating income (2.59) (1.04) Financial products 0.08 0.19 Financial expenses (0.04) (0.07) Financial Result 0.04 0.12 Net income (2.55) (0.92) Net income per share () (0.10) (0.04) Net cash flow from operating activities (4.27) 0.57 Net cash flow from investing activities (0.01) (0.02) Net cash flow from financing activities (0.05) (0.07) (Decrease) Increase in cash position (4.32) 0.48 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 4.83 8.81

Details of the main changes in the consolidated financial statements

ABIONYX Pharma recorded its first sales of 27 K in Q1, corresponding to the supply of CER-001 for the treatment of a patient for one month in the context of a new ATUn, following positive results obtained in March 2021 in the treatment of LCAT deficiency in a patient in France.

The increase in research and development expenses, which amounted to 2,029 K for the period, compared to 412 K in the first half of 2020, corresponds mainly to the evolution of subcontracting and consulting expenses which amounted to 1,584 K. This increase is mainly related to the launch of a new production campaign for the CER-001 bio product, initiated at the end of 2020, and the restart of new R&D activities.

General and administrative expenses amounted to 584 K as of June 30, 2021, compared to 629 K as of June 30, 2020. After taking these expenses into account, the operating profit went from a loss of 1,041 K as of June 30, 2020 to a loss of 2,586 K as of June 30, 2021. The financial income shows a surplus 41 K in the first half of 2021, compared to the 121 K income recorded for the first half of 2020. The net result shows a loss of 2,546 K as of June 30, 2021, compared to a loss of 920 K as of June 30, 2020. Cash and cash equivalents amounted to 4.8 million on June 30, 2021.

About ABIONYX Pharma

ABIONYX Pharma is a new generation biotech company that aims to contribute to health through innovative therapies in indications where there is no effective or existing treatment, even the rarest ones. Thanks to its partners in research, medicine, biopharmaceuticals and shareholding, the company innovates on a daily basis to propose drugs for the treatment of renal and ophthalmological diseases, or new HDL vectors used for targeted drug delivery.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005895/en/

Contacts:

NewCap

Investor relations

Louis-Victor Delouvrier

abionyx@newcap.eu

+33 (0)1 44 71 98 53

NewCap

Media relations

Nicolas Merigeau

abionyx@newcap.eu

+33 (0)1 44 71 94 98
CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / National Police Credit Union, the first and only full-service financial institution created solely for law enforcement officers and their families across the country, proudly offers Police Mortgages featuring Killed in the Line of Duty Loan Protection, a special free-of-charge debt cancellation benefit created exclusively for active full-time sworn law enforcement officers.

Killed in the Line of Duty Loan Protection

Available for mortgages at no cost to the borrower, Killed in the Line of Duty Loan Protection is a complimentary benefit that will cancel up to $850,000 of the outstanding balance of eligible Credit Union loans should the unthinkable happen to an officer due to a line-of-duty incident.

When members close or refinance a Police Mortgage with the Credit Union they receive free Killed in the Line of Duty Loan Protection for the duration of said loan for as long they remain active full-time sworn law enforcement officers.

Pictured is Scott Arney, CEO, Chicago Patrolmen's Federal Credit Union

According to CEO Scott Arney, "The Credit Union's unique Police Mortgage not only allows our members to realize the dream of home ownership, but also affords them the opportunity to rest easy knowing that their families will be taken care of should the unthinkable happen to them while serving and protecting our communities. Like Kevlar, Killed in the Line of Duty Loan Protection merely provides an extra layer of security to professionals whose day-to-day work often includes life or death consequences."

Additional Benefits

The Credit Union is known and respected for providing quick and easy closings, as well as customized terms and low money down options.

"Because of our work with law enforcement over the past 80-plus years," continues Arney, "the Credit Union has greater access to information than traditional mortgage lenders, who typically require a substantial amount of time working with clients to complete forms. With first-hand knowledge of officers' personal and professional financial matters and working around police officers' schedules, we are able to cut down the turn-around time nearly in half, with mortgages generally closing in 30 days or less, versus the industry standard of 45 - 60 days."

Full-Service Mortgage Department

National Police Credit Union's full-service Mortgage department offers Conventional Mortgages, Purchase Money Transactions, FHA Loans and VA Loans, as well as free Mortgage Pre-Approvals.

For more information about National Police Credit Union and our Police Mortgage, please visit www.nationalpolicecu.com or call 844-COP-SAVE (844-267-7283).

About National Police Credit Union

National Police Credit Union is a marketing division of Chicago Patrolmen's Federal Credit Union, which was established in 1938 as a "blue shirts" organization open only to police officers on the beat. Today, the Credit Union serves officers of all ranks and their immediate family members. Led by CEO Scott Arney since 2002, the Credit Union serves over 38,000 members and has assets in excess of half a billion dollars. In 2014, Chicago Patrolmen's Federal Credit Union introduced its marketing division National Police Credit Union, which is the first and only full-service financial institution serving law enforcement officers and their families across the country. The Credit Union is and always has been administered by a Board of Directors comprised entirely of working and retired police officers.

National Police Credit Union is headquartered at 1407 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL, with Regional Business Offices located in Tempe, AZ and Dallas, TX. For more information, please visit our website.

If you would like more information, an interview or photos, please contact Elizabeth Berger at 312-543-2209 or elizabeth@elizabethberger.com.

SOURCE: National Police Credit Union

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/662995/National-Police-Credit-Unions-Signature-Police-Mortgage-Featuring-Killed-in-the-Line-of-Duty-Loan-Protection-Provides-Law-Enforcement-Officers-with-Long-Term-Benefits-and-Financial-Peace-of-Mind
Exane BNP Paribas maintains first place as the top research provider in the Developed Europe survey, J.P. Morgan gets the top spot in Emerging EMEA and Peel Hunt is best broker for UK Small & Mid-cap

LONDON, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Institutional Investor Research (II Research) surveys are the leading provider of market sentiment in the financial industry. Over the past year, almost entirely disrupted by the Covid pandemic, the quantity of written research has increased exponentially, making the quality of research providers and their analysts' performance ever more competitive. Assessing this quality, as measured by independent feedback from the buy-side, has become more important than ever before.



This year, updates to the survey methodology included the removal of the overall country research categories from the Leaders' tables, to create country results focused on local brokers for the Developed Europe survey. These country results also included Sales, Corporate Access and Trading & Execution categories to re-create the best broker results. The UK Small & Mid-cap survey and pan-European Trading & Execution were also integrated into the same portal. In the Emerging EMEA survey, the best Russia broker was an aggregate of Russia Trading, Sales, Corporate Access and Research, while Russia Research was an aggregate of only the Russia research sub-sectors.

The 2021 Developed Europe Research results reflect the opinions of 4,226 portfolio managers and analysts, an increase of 40% since 2020, from 1,468 institutions. The total number of votes has also increased from last year, by 27%.

The 2021 UK Small & Mid-cap results reflect the opinions of 515 portfolio managers and analysts at 331 institutions, also a sharp rise in voter participation from 43% vs last year.

The 2021 Emerging EMEA Research results reflect the opinions of 991 portfolio managers and analysts (an increase of 7% from 2020) at 538 institutions.

Results Highlights

Developed Europe Research

The Leaders' Board remains intensely competitive, with a maximum of 36 positions available. Exane BNP Paribas maintained first place with 33 published positions, and only five positions separate the first and fifth placed firms. BofA Securities claimed second place with 32 positions, followed by UBS, J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley. Citi was placed sixth with 24 positions. Credit Suisse made a strong gain of eight published positions, rising four places to seventh place in the Leaders' Table.

Exane BNP Paribas also claims first place in the analyst-ranked tables with 44 positions, followed by BofA Securities (42), J.P. Morgan (35 positions) and UBS (34).

The establishment of the Country Broker categories emulated the former Extel Survey, with an aggregate broker award comprising Research, Sales, and, in some markets, Trading & Corporate Access and Small & Mid-cap stocks. Exclusion of the country categories from the Leaders' Board to discourage the global brokers from appearing in these rankings, allowed the local and regional brokers to elicit genuine votes from local asset managers, who value and pay for domestic country-based brokerage services. In most cases, the winner of the Best Broker category has been a local franchise, demonstrating the success of the initiative.

Austria : Kepler Cheuvreux won Best Austria Broker, with Erste Group in second and Raiffeisen Centrobank in third.

: Kepler Cheuvreux won Best Austria Broker, with Erste Group in second and Raiffeisen Centrobank in third. Benelux : ING won Best Benelux Broker, followed by Kepler Cheuvreux in second and ABN Amro (now Oddo-BHF) in third. Degroof Petercam and KBC Securities take fourth and fifth respectively.

: ING won Best Benelux Broker, followed by Kepler Cheuvreux in second and ABN Amro (now Oddo-BHF) in third. Degroof Petercam and KBC Securities take fourth and fifth respectively. France : Oddo BHF achieved first place with their strong French franchise; with Kepler taking second place and Exane BNP Paribas in third. Societe Generale takes fourth and CIC Market Solutions takes fifth place, the first such showing in a local market by a member of the ESN Group.

: Oddo BHF achieved first place with their strong French franchise; with Kepler taking second place and Exane BNP Paribas in third. Societe Generale takes fourth and CIC Market Solutions takes fifth place, the first such showing in a local market by a member of the ESN Group. Germany : Commerzbank maintain their Best Broker status, with Kepler again taking second and Stifel (formerly MainFirst Bank) in third. Berenberg and Deutsche Bank take fourth and fifth places.

: Commerzbank maintain their Best Broker status, with Kepler again taking second and Stifel (formerly MainFirst Bank) in third. Berenberg and Deutsche Bank take fourth and fifth places. Greece : A strong performance by Pantelakis Securities in Sales allowed them to take Best Broker, closely followed by Ambrosia Capital in second and Wood & Co. in third. Fourth and fifth were Eurobank Equities and Axia Ventures.

: A strong performance by Pantelakis Securities in Sales allowed them to take Best Broker, closely followed by Ambrosia Capital in second and Wood & Co. in third. Fourth and fifth were Eurobank Equities and Axia Ventures. Iberia : Santander take the Best Broker Award, with JB Capital taking second place and Kepler in third place. Caixabank is fourth and Alantra Equities in fifth place.

: Santander take the Best Broker Award, with JB Capital taking second place and Kepler in third place. Caixabank is fourth and Alantra Equities in fifth place. Italy : Mediobanca takes the first-place firm, Equita SIM in second and Kepler Cheuvreux in third place. Intermonte takes fourth and Intesa Sanpaolo takes fifth place.

: Mediobanca takes the first-place firm, Equita SIM in second and Kepler Cheuvreux in third place. Intermonte takes fourth and Intesa Sanpaolo takes fifth place. Nordics : Carnegie Investment Bank maintains their strong franchise, regaining the first place they achieved under the Extel Survey. DnB has continued their strong performance to take second place, followed by SEB, ABG Sundal Collier and Nordea Markets.

: Carnegie Investment Bank maintains their strong franchise, regaining the first place they achieved under the Extel Survey. DnB has continued their strong performance to take second place, followed by SEB, ABG Sundal Collier and Nordea Markets. Switzerland : Switzerland is less dominated by a local broker with UBS in first and Kepler Cheuvreux in second, with Credit Suisse taking third place. Stifel (formerly MainFirst) takes fourth place and ZKB in fifth.

: Switzerland is less dominated by a local broker with UBS in first and Kepler Cheuvreux in second, with Credit Suisse taking third place. Stifel (formerly MainFirst) takes fourth place and ZKB in fifth. UK: The UK (large cap) category was won by HSBC, with Berenberg in second, Barclays in third, followed by Numis Securities and Peel Hunt.

UK Small & Mid-Cap Research

331 asset management firms participated in the UK Small & Mid-cap survey; a rise of 128 firms from 2020 when the survey was polled separately to the Developed Europe survey; not quite the previous numbers from Extel in 2019 but rebounding from the lows of 2020.

Peel Hunt has won the newly revived Best UK Small & Mid-cap Broker award, an aggregate of all 18 research categories, plus the Sales, Trading, Corporate Access and Corporate Broking categories; they also came first in Research. Investec rose to second place, squeezing the winner in 2019, Numis Securities, into third place. Liberum Capital retained fourth place Broker. Jefferies, Barclays and Berenberg all showed strong quality in fifth to seventh place, and Panmure Gordon placed eighth.

Emerging EMEA Research

J.P. Morgan achieved first place in the Emerging EMEA Leaders' Table with 17 published positions as in 2020. HSBC jumped to second place, gaining two positions at 16, with BofA Securities a close third with 15 positions. UBS was fourth with 12 published positions. Morgan Stanley also gained three published positions for fifth place. Specialist brokers Renaissance Capital and Wood & Co. also increased their market share.

In the commission-weighted analyst tables, HSBC came out in first place with 29 published positions, followed by J.P. Morgan with 24 positions and UBS with 23. BofA Securities came in fourth place with 15 positions to complete the leading winners.

For Russia, Best Broker was dominated by Russia local brokers Sberbank CIB in first place and VTB Capital in second. Four Global Banks then took third to sixth places. The Research crown was taken by VTB Capital, but it was Corporate Access and Sales that allowed Sberbank to clinch Best Broker. Only BofA Securities and J.P. Morgan of the global banks managed to achieve a published position for the Emerging EMEA Leaders' Table from Overall Russia Research.

David Enticknap, Head of II Research says: "Feedback we receive from our asset management voters, is that sell-side firms have significantly increased research output over the year; access to quality research remains highly competitive and selection of that quality has become more acute than ever. We have centralised contributions from 120 firms across the survey, supporting our initiative to receive input directly from buy-side firms to reduce the disruption to the industry."

The results for Developed Europe Research can be found here: www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11233/The-All-Europe-Research-Team (http://www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11233/The-All-Europe-Research-Team)

The results for Emerging EMEA Research can be found here: www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11211/The-Emerging-EMEA-Research-Team (http://www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11211/The-Emerging-EMEA-Research-Team)

The results for UK SMID Research can be found here: www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11225/UK-Small-Midcap-Research-Team (http://www.institutionalinvestor.com/research/11225/UK-Small-Midcap-Research-Team)

For more information, or a demo on how to interrogate the data, contact David Enticknap, Head of II Research, on +44 7577 457088 or david.enticknap@iiresearch.com (mailto:david.enticknap@iiresearch.com).

To share your position on your website content, advertisements, communications and marketing collateral, please contact marketing@iiresearch.com (mailto:marketing@iiresearch.com).

Media contact

Sally Savery, Director of Marketing, Institutional Investor Research. Sally.savery@iiresearch.com (mailto:Sally.savery@iiresearch.com).

About Institutional Investor Research

For over 50 years Institutional Investor has consistently distinguished itself among the world's foremost media companies with ground-breaking journalism and incisive writing that provides essential intelligence for a global audience. In addition, since 1972, Institutional Investor Research (II Research) has offered highly-respected proprietary benchmark research and rankings, providing independent feedback on the sell-side and corporate performance; II Research aims to be the first-choice as well as independent validation source of qualitative market intelligence for all three sides of the investment community and has a global presence spanning Europe, Asia Pacific, the US and Latin America.

Follow Institutional Investor Research herehttps://www.linkedin.com/showcase/11222447 (https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/11222447)
Non-Profit assembling world's greatest strategic minds in collaboration with Holy See (Vatican) based impact initiatives

ROME, ITALY (VATICAN CITY) / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / Humanity 2.0, a Non-Profit (Non-Government Organization) focused on identifying and removing the most significant impediments to human flourishing in collaboration with the Holy See (Vatican), is proud to announce it has appointed Carlo D'Asaro Biondo to its advisory board which oversees the strategic and ethical direction of Humanity 2.0's impact initiatives.

Carlo D'Asaro Biondo, CEO of Noovle and former President of EMEA Partnerships at Google

Matthew Sanders, CEO of Humanity 2.0 commented; "Carlo is a force of nature. His intense desire to see technology accelerate human flourishing is an important reason we invited him to join our Advisory board. His experience at Google has afforded him important insight into the unique challenge technology poses in the 21st century. In his new role as CEO of Noovle, we expect to see Carlo leverage this experience to effectively navigate the complexities of scaling a tech company in Italy. We are delighted he will be collaborating with Humanity 2.0 as an Advisory Board member and I look forward to benefiting from his experience."

Humanity 2.0 Advisory Committee consists of 10 members:

Maurice Levy; Chairman of the Supervisory Board; Publicis Groupe

Bill Hilf; Chief Executive Officer; Vulcan

Tae Yoo; Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Corporate Social Responsibility; Cisco

Carlo D'Asaro Biondo; Former President - EMEA Partnerships; Google

Jean Oelwang; President & Trustee Virgin Unite & B Team; Senior Partner; Virgin

Jim Pitofsky; Managing Director, Strategic Alliances; John Templeton Foundation

Hilary Pennington; Executive Vice President for Program; Ford Foundation

Dinah McLeod; Director and Cause Lead, Equality in the Workplace; The B Team

Matt Bird; Chief Executive Officer, CommPro Worldwide

Fr. Philip Larrey; Chairman; Humanity 2.0

About Carlo D'Asaro Biondo

Carlo d'Asaro Biondo is strategic advisor at Expon Capital.

Carlo is starting a new Cloud Project company at Telecom Italia. Previously, for 10 years, he was President EMEA Partnerships at Google. He started his career as a consultant at Macfin Management Consultants and joined KPMG Consulting in Italy in 1994, where he became President and CEO of Consulting France in 1999. Following the sale of KPMG Consulting, he joined Unisys at the end of 2001 as Vice President and MD EMEA Telecommunications and Media.

In February 2004, he joined AOL Europe as Senior Vice President in charge of strategy. He was named AOL France President and CEO a few months later, and President of AOL Europe in 2006.

At the beginning of 2007, Carlo became CEO of International Operations at Lagardere Active Media before joining Google in July 2009 where he managed operations for Southern and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa for five years. Since January 2015 Carlo is President of Google's EMEA Partnerships personally following main partnership and institutional relationships. He is a board member of Auchan Retail International and was a member of the Board of Darty of 2010 until its sale to Fnac and has been a member of the Board of Directors of Manutan International since 2011.

Carlo has both French and Italian citizenship. He is a graduate of Universita La Sapienza in Rome (Italy) and lives in Paris with his wife Nathalie. Born in 1965, he and his wife have five children.

About Humanity 2.0

Humanity 2.0 a Non-Profit (Non-Government Organization) focused on identifying and removing the most significant impediments to human flourishing in collaboration with the Holy See (Vatican). A vehicle for facilitating collaborative ventures between the traditionally siloed public, private, and faith-based sectors. Its mission is to identify impediments to human flourishing and then work collaboratively across sectors to remove them by sourcing and scaling bold and innovative solutions. Developed in collaboration with the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development at the Holy See and a consortium of leaders and luminaries, Humanity 2.0 seeks to unite humanity in the common cause of realizing a better world for our children

For more information visit: www.humanity2-0.org | Facebook | Twitter | LinkedIn

CONTACT:

Humanity 2.0 Communications:

Matt Bird

Advisory Council Member

P: +1 646.401.4499

E: matt@commpro.com

PR & Media Contact:

Nicole Liddy

Project Manager

CommPro Worldwide

E: Nicole.liddy@commpro.com

C: 848-702-4173

SOURCE: Humanity 2.0

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663388/Humanity-20-Appoints-Carlo-DAsaro-Biondo-to-Advisory-Board--Rome-Italy
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - First Light Capital Corp. (TSXV: XYZ.P) ("First Light") and New Oroperu Resources Inc. (TSXV: ORO) ("New Oroperu") are pleased to announce that the shareholders of both companies have overwhelmingly approved the business combination transaction between them (the "Transaction").

At the First Light Annual and General Special Meeting, the shareholders:

received the audited annual financial statements of First Light for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, together with the accompanying auditors' report,





approved an increase in the number of Directors from three to five,





elected James ("Jim") Currie, Andrew Carstensen, Barry Hildred, Brian Storseth and K. Wayne Livingstone as directors, all to take office effective upon completion of the Transaction,





confirmed that the current members of the Board of Directors of First Light will continue to serve as directors until completion of the Transaction,





appointed First Light's current auditors - Manning Elliott LLP - as the auditors for First Light for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021,





approved the proposed omnibus equity incentive compensation plan,





approved the consolidation of all of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of First Light (including all common shares to be issued at closing of the Transaction) on the basis of one (1) post-consolidation share for every six (6) pre-consolidation shares, and





approved the change of the First Light's name to Anacortes Mining Corporation.

At the New Oroperu Special Meeting, the New Oroperu securityholders approved a special resolution authorizing and approving the execution and delivery of the Arrangement Agreement among First Light, New Oroperu, 1310612 B.C. Ltd. and 1310620 B.C. Ltd. dated June 16, 2021 (the "Arrangement Agreement") and the performance by New Oroperu of its obligations thereunder, and they approved the plan of arrangement attached as a schedule to the Arrangement Agreement (the "Arrangement"). New Oroperu has applied for a final order of the Supreme Court of British Columbia to approve the Arrangement.

The completion of the Transaction remains subject to conditions set forth in the Arrangement Agreement, including TSX Venture Exchange approval. The parties anticipate completing the Transaction within the next few weeks.

Upon completion of the Transaction, the resulting issuer, Anacortes Mining Corp. ("Anacortes") will be the 100% owner of the Tres Cruces Gold Project located in Northern Peru. The Tres Cruces project is located in north central Peru and accessible via a paved road 127 km from the city of Trujillo, located on the Pacific coast. Infrastructure near the project includes an airstrip a few kilometres to the north, a deep-water port near the city of Trujillo, and Boroo Ptd Ltd (Singapore)'s Lagunas Norte operations within 10 km, which were recently acquired from Barrick Gold Corporation. Tres Cruces currently hosts a mineral resource estimate of 2.474 million ounces of gold at 1.65 g/t in the Indicated category, which includes 630,000 ounces of leachable gold resources.

Upon the completion of the Transaction, Anacortes will be well-financed as a result of the recently completed $22,038,500 private placement of subscription receipts which closed on July 21, 2021, with the proceeds being held in escrow until the close of the Transaction.

Led by seasoned mining executive Jim Currie as CEO, Anacortes intends to advance Tres Cruces to Feasibility Study beginning after the close of the Transaction as the first step in building an Americas-based mid-tier gold producer. Anacortes intends to work towards expanding the resource base at Tres Cruces with an aggressive drilling program and to evaluate additional strategic opportunities as they become available.

About First Light

First Light is a capital pool company pursuant to Policy 2.4 of the TSXV. Except as specifically contemplated in such policy, until the completion of its Qualifying Transaction (as defined in the policy), First Light will not carry on business, other than the identification and evaluation of companies, businesses or assets with a view to completing a proposed QT. Investors are cautioned that trading in the securities of a capital pool company is considered highly speculative.

For further information, please contact Jim Currie, President and Chief Executive Officer of First Light, at (604) 764-7108.

About New Oroperu

New Oroperu is a junior exploration company based in Vancouver, B.C., which owns the Tres Cruces gold project in Peru. The Tres Cruces gold project currently hosts a mineral resource estimate of 2.474 million ounces of gold at 1.65 g/t in the Indicated category, which includes 630,000 ounces of leachable gold resources. This mineral resource is described in a NI 43-101 Technical Report & Resource Update for the Tres Cruces project, North-Central Peru, prepared for New Oroperu by Jeffrey D. Rowe, James N. Gray and Ruperto Castro Ocampo with an effective date of March 16, 2021, which has been filed on New Oroperu's profile on SEDAR and can be viewed at www.sedar.com.

Jeffrey D. Rowe, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

For further information, please contact Christina McCarthy, V.P. Corporate Development of New Oroperu, at (416) 712-6151, email christina@oroperu.com or K. Wayne Livingstone, President and Chief Executive Officer of New Oroperu, at (604) 638-1408, email kwl@oroperu.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation ("Forward-looking Statements"). All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, are Forward-looking Statements and are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the Forward-looking Statements.

The Forward-looking Statements in this news release may include, without limitation, statements about the Company and New Oroperu's current expectations, estimates and projections for the pro forma company, the structure and estimated value of the Transaction, the anticipated timing of the respective shareholders meetings and the closing of the Transaction, the timing and anticipated receipt of required shareholder, court and stock exchange approvals and the ability of the parties to satisfy the other conditions to, and to complete, the Private Placement and the Transaction; the anticipated benefits of the Transaction to shareholders and the combined company, including corporate, operational and other synergies; the anticipated uses of the net proceeds of the Private Placement; and the expected management team of the combined company. Often, but not always, these Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipated", "estimated", "potential", "open", "future", "assumed", "projected", "used", "detailed", "has been", "gain", "planned", "reflecting", "will", "anticipated", "estimated" "containing", "remaining", "to be", or statements that events, "could" or "should" occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.

Forward-looking Statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company and New Oroperu to control or predict and which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-looking Statements. Such risks, uncertainties and factors include, among others, the completion and timing of the Transaction, the ability of the Company and New Oroperu to receive, in a timely manner, the necessary approvals to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Transaction; the ability to complete the Transaction on terms contemplated by the Company and New Oroperu, or at all; the ability of the combined company to realize the anticipated benefits of, and synergies and savings from, the Transaction and the timing thereof; the consequences of not completing the Transaction; the accuracy of the pro forma financial information of the combined company; changes in general economic conditions and financial markets; political risks; risks relating to the current and potential adverse impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, financial markets and the parties' operations; and risks inherent in mineral exploration. Although Forward-looking Statements contained in this news release are based upon what each of the parties believe are reasonable assumptions at the time they were made, such statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company and New Oroperu disclaim any obligation to update any Forward-looking Statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that these Forward-looking Statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on Forward-looking Statements.

Completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, TSXV acceptance. There can be no assurance that the Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSXV has in no way passed upon the merits of the Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96027
CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this United Arab Emirates (UAE) data center market report.

UAE data center market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 7.99% during the period 2020-2026. UAE data center market research report includes market size in terms of area, investment, power capacity, and colocation revenues. Get insights on 24 existing and 13 upcoming facilities spread across 5 cities, including Dubai, Abu Dubai, and other cities (Al Ain, Fujairah, and Sharjah).

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

The UAE is one of the largest data center hubs in the Middle East , and its data center industry is thriving due to good submarine cable connectivity, high speed internet bandwidth, significant digital transformation, and fast adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT). Dubai is the leading data center market in the UAE, with 16 unique third-party data center facilities accounting for around 60% of the existing power capacity, followed by Abu Dhabi , contributing to over 30% of the power capacity. The UAE has free trade zones benefitting industrial and enterprise investments, with tax incentives. In 2020, the UAE received investment from colocation providers Equinix, Gulf Data Hub, Khazna Data Centers, Etisalat, Moro Hub, and Group 42. The UAE has a presence of prominent cloud service providers such as Huawei Technologies, Alibaba, Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). In January 2020 , IBM launched two data centers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai , UAE. AWS has announced a new cloud region in Abu Dhabi , to be operational in 2022. Dubai is one of the world's first smart cities and is one of the world's fastest adopters of Internet of Things (IoT). The Smart IoT Dubai project is a government initiative to connect sensors across the city. Civil rights and law enforcement are a few legal issues connected with Smart IoT Dubai. The UAE is working towards installing 42 GW of renewable energy in the country by 2050. Dubai has already started work on this vision by commissioning a five-part renewable energy project and is currently setting up an 800 MW solar park.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Area, Power Capacity, Investment, and Colocation Revenue | 2020-2026

Impact of COVID-19 on Data Center Market

Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party facilities in UAE

Facilities Covered (Existing): 24



Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 13



Coverage: 5 cities



Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area)



Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Data center colocation market in UAE

Market Revenue & Forecast (2020-2026)



Retail Colocation Pricing



Wholesale Colocation Pricing

Market Dynamics - Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation - A detailed analysis by IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standard

Key Market Participants - List of 9 IT infrastructure providers, 11 construction service providers, 15 support infrastructure providers, and 7 data center investors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-arab-emirates-data-center-market

UAE Data Center Market - Segmentation

The adoption of advanced technologies such as cloud, IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence by enterprises will lead to higher adoption of high-performance computing infrastructure during the forecast period. The rise in digital transformation strategies and the adoption of cloud computing by enterprises are likely to increase cloud server adoption in the UAE.

Majority of the data center facilities in the UAE are adopting N+1 redundant diesel generators with fuel back up of up to 24 hours. For instance, Gulf Data Hub Dubai data center facility is installed with N+1 redundancy generator with capacity of 16,000KVA and fuel storage of around 48,000 liters for 24 hours backup.

In the UAE, most data centers are designed to cool servers through water-based cooling techniques. The growing construction of data centers will be one of the factors for the development of multiple chillers, cooling towers, and CRAH units.

Market Segmentation by IT Infrastructure

Servers

Storage Systems

Network Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer, Switches & Switchgears

Rack PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Rack Cabinets

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by General Construction

Building Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building Design

Physical Security

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Market Segmentation by Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

Market Segmentation by Geography

Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Other Cities

UAE Data Center Market - Dynamics

As of January 2021, the population of the UAE was around 9.94 million. Internet users in the country are around 9.84 million as of 2021, at 99% internet penetration. Dubai is one of the world's first smart cities and is one of the world's fastest adopters of Internet of Things (IoT). The Smart IoT Dubai project is a government initiative to connect sensors across the city. Civil rights and law enforcement are a few legal issues connected with Smart IoT Dubai. In Dubai private and public companies are participating in IoT development to create job opportunities and new revenue streams.

Dubai Internet of Things (IoT) strategy seeks to build the world's most advanced Internet Of Things (IoT) ecosystem in the world's smartest city to improve people's lives. Etisalat Digital uses NB-IoT technology to enable smart parking solutions to drivers to easily locate free parking spots in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Software AG and du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), signed a partnership to provide a subscription-based licensing model IoT services to its business customers.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Cloud Adoption is Driving Data Center Demand

On-Premises Infrastructure Migrates to Colocation & Managed Services

Procurement of Renewable Energy

5G Deployment Leading Edge Data Center Investment

UAE Data Center Market - Existing Vs. Upcoming Data Centers

Existing Facilities in the region (White Floor Area and Power Capacity)

Dubai

Abu Dubai

Other Cities

List of Upcoming Facilities in the region (White Floor Area and Power Capacity)

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-arab-emirates-data-center-market

Key Market Participants

IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Construction Constructors & Sub-Contractors

Aldar Properties

DC PRO Engineering

Edarat Group

HHM Building Contracting

Laing O'Rourke

Linesight

M+W Group (Exyte)

McLAREN Construction Group

RED

RW Armstrong

Turner & Townsend

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Delta Electronics

Eaton

HITEC Power Protection

Johnson Controls

Legrand

Rittal

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Schneider Electric

STULZ

Shenzhen Envicool Technology

Siemens

Vertiv Group

Data Center Investor

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Equinix

Etisalat Group

Future Digital Data Systems

Gulf Data Hub

Khazna Data Centers

Moro Hub

Explore our data center knowledge base profile to know more about the industry.

Read some of the top-selling reports:

Nigeria Data Center Market - Investment Analysis & Growth Opportunities 2021-2026

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Saudi Arabia Data Center Market - Investment Analysis & Growth Opportunities 2021-2026

Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Data Center Market - Industry Outlook & Forecast 2021-2026

About Arizton:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovation and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

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The "Global Access Control Market (2021-2026) by Models, Technology, Component, End User, Geography, Competitive Analysis and the Impact of Covid-19 with Ansoff Analysis" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Access Control Market is estimated to be USD 4.8 Bn in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 6.67 Bn by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 6.8%.

Market Dynamics

The rising security concerns among the private and public sectors are the major factors increasing the global access control market. Rising threats, cyber and malware attacks, frauds have mandated access control by the government, and some companies are anticipated to increase the market growth.

Furthermore, the increasing adoption of IoT and cloud computing in security systems is driving the market. The penetration of smart access control in home locks and other sectors such as vehicles, GCM digital phones, etc is further prompting the demand of the market. However, the high cost encored for installation and maintenance is anticipated to hinder the market growth.

Ongoing technological advancements on access control devices and rising applications of wireless security systems are expected to pave new opportunities for the market during the forecast period.

Market Segmentation

By Models, the market is classified into discretionary access control (DAC), mandatory access control (MAC), role-based access control (RBAC), and rule-based access control. Amongst all, the discretionary access control (DAC) segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period.

By Type, the market is classified as physical access control systems, logical access control systems, and mobile access control systems. Amongst all, the physical access control segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period.

By Component, the market is classified as hardware, software, and service. Amongst all, the hardware segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period.

By End User, the market is classified as commercial, residential, education, military defense, healthcare, manufacturing industrial, government, and transportation. Amongst all, the commercial segment is estimated to hold the highest market share during the forecast period.

By Geography, North America is projected to lead the market.

Recent Developments

Brivo partners with Securitas Electronic Security, Inc. to deliver its cloud-based access control, physical security platform technology to new and existing SES clientele. 22nd October 2020.

Invixium, the manufacturer of innovative touchless biometric solutions, entered into a global distribution agreement with Honeywell Commercial Security. Invixium products integrate with Honeywell's Pro-Watch Security Management Suite through IXM WEB, Invixium's enterprise-grade software solution. This integration allows for one- or two-way database-to-database synchronization of user credentials between the two applications to streamline the process of implementing access control solutions with both Invixium and Honeywell products. 24th August 2020.

Company Profiles

Some of the companies covered in this report are Panasonic Corporation, 3M Company, Honeywell Group, Axis Communications, Pelco Inc., Cisco, Access Ltd., etc.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Report Description

2 Research Methodology

3 Executive Summary

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Market Size and Segmentation

3.3 Market Outlook

4 Market Influencers

4.1 Drivers

4.1.1 Increasing Security Threats, Data Breach, and Cyber Attacks

4.1.2 Increasing Urbanisation and Home Security Systems

4.1.3 Growing Adoption of IoT Based Security Systems

4.2 Restraints

4.2.1 High Investment Cost, and ROI Concerns

4.2.2 Security and Privacy Concerns

4.3 Opportunities

4.3.1 Rising Adoption of Access Control System as Service

4.3.2 Implementation of Mobile Based Access Control

4.4 Challenges

4.4.1 Low Awareness Of Smart Security Systems

4.5 Trends

5 Market Analysis

5.1 Regulatory Scenario

5.2 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

5.3 Impact of COVID-19

5.4 Ansoff Matrix Analysis

6 Global Access Control Market, By Models

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Discretionary Access Control (DAC)

6.3 Mandatory Access Control (MAC)

6.4 Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

6.5 Rule-Based Access Control

7 Global Access Control Market, By Type

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Physical Access Control Systems

7.3 Logical Access Control Systems

7.4 Mobile Access Control Systems

8 Global Access Control Market, By Component

8.1 Introduction

8.2 Hardware

8.2.1 Card-Based Readers

8.2.1.1 Magnetic Stripe Cards and Readers

8.2.1.2 Proximity Cards And Readers

8.2.1.3 Smart Cards And Readers

8.2.1.4 Contact Smart Cards

8.2.1.5 Contactless Smart Cards

8.2.2 Biometric Readers

8.2.2.1 Fingerprint Recognition

8.2.2.2 Palm Recognition

8.2.2.3 Iris Recognition

8.2.2.4 Facial Recognition

8.2.2.5 Voice Recognition

8.2.3 Multi-Technology Readers

8.2.4 Electronic Locks

8.2.4.1 Electromagnetic Locks

8.2.4.2 Electric Strike Locks

8.2.4.3 Smart Locks

8.2.5 Controllers

8.2.5.1 Serial access controllers

8.2.5.2 IP access controllers

8.2.6 Others

8.3 Software

8.3.1 Visitor Management System

8.3.2 Others

8.4 Service

8.4.1 Installation Integration Services

8.4.2 Support Maintenance Services

8.4.3 Access Control- As- a Service( ACaaS)

8.4.3.1 Hosted ACaaS

8.4.3.2 Managed ACaaS

8.4.3.3 Hybrid ACaaS

9 Global Access Control Market, By End User

9.1 Introduction

9.2 Commercial

9.3 Residential

9.4 Education

9.5 Military Defense

9.6 Healthcare

9.7 Manufacturing Industrial

9.8 Government

9.9 Transportation

10 Global Access Control Market, By Geography

10.1 Introduction

11 Competitive Landscape

11.1 Competitive Quadrant

11.2 Market Share Analysis

11.3 Strategic Initiatives

12 Company Profiles

12.1 3M Company

12.2 Access Ltd.

12.3 Allegion plc

12.4 Assa Abloy AB

12.5 Axis Communications

12.6 Bosch Security Systems, LLC

12.7 Canon Inc.

12.8 Cisco

12.9 Dormakaba Holding AG

12.10 Genetec Inc

12.11 Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd.

12.12 Honeywell Group

12.13 Identiv

12.14 Johnson Controls International plc

12.15 Napco Security Technologies, Inc.

12.16 Nedap

12.17 Panasonic Corporation

12.18 Pelco Inc.

12.19 SolarWinds Inc

12.20 Suprema Inc

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mdo39s

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005995/en/

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ResearchAndMarkets.com

Laura Wood, Senior Press Manager

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Wilmington, Delaware--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Acorn Energy, Inc. (OTCQB: ACFN), a provider of Internet of Things (IoT) remote monitoring and control solutions for stand-by power generators, gas pipelines, air compressors and other industrial equipment, will hold its 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on Monday, September 13, 2021, 1:00 PM ET at 10451 Mill Run Circle, Owings Mills, Maryland. The meeting will also be available virtually via Zoom, to those who register in advance.

To participate in Acorn's Zoom Annual Meeting, investors must register in advance by contacting Acorn's Assistant Secretary by email at AcornMeeting@gmail.com.

Annual Meeting Weblink (for registered participants): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84072052980

To attend by Zoom, one should either click the link above, paste it into a web browser or go to zoom.us/join and enter the Meeting ID 840 7205 2980. Registered participants will be admitted from the waiting room into the Zoom meeting, commencing approximately 12:55 PM ET.

If you have any questions or have technical issues on the day of the meeting, please call 302-448-8580 or email AcornMeeting@gmail.com in advance of the meeting.

About Acorn (www.acornenergy.com) and OmniMetrixTM (www.omnimetrix.net)

Acorn Energy, Inc. owns a 99% equity stake in OmniMetrix, a pioneer and leader in machine-to-machine (M2M) and Internet of Things (IoT) wireless remote monitoring and control solutions for stand-by power generators, gas pipelines, air compressors and other industrial equipment. OmniMetrix's proven, cost-effective solutions make critical systems more reliable. The company monitors tens of thousands of assets for customers, which include 25 Fortune/Global 500 companies. In addition to residential generators, OmniMetrix solutions monitor critical equipment used by cell towers, manufacturing plants, medical facilities, data centers, retail stores, public transportation systems, energy distribution and federal, state and municipal government facilities.

Follow us

Twitter: @Acorn_IR and @OmniMetrix

Investor Relations Contacts

Catalyst IR

William Jones, 267-987-2082

David Collins, 212-924-9800

acfn@catalyst-ir.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96030
Program Delivered Through a Highly Interactive Online Bootcamp Model

Online Masterclasses provided by the Knowledge Innovation Center, using top instructors from the " University of Arizona Global Campus"

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Simplilearn , the world's number one online bootcamp for digital economy skills training, in collaboration with the Knowledge Innovation Center through its partnership with theUniversity of Arizona Global Campus Forbes School of Business and Technology (UAGC), launched its Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing . The Knowledge Innovation Center, in collaboration with Simplilearn, provides learners the unique combined advantage of academic excellence from the University of Arizona Global Campus and Simplilearn's award-winning curriculum to help learners master a set of fundamental and highly critical digital marketing skills. With over 100 hours of learning, requiring 4 to 5 hours weekly from the learners, the program is best suited for students or professionals looking to jump-start a career in digital marketing, especially in roles such as Digital Marketing Manager, SEO/PPC/Social-Media Manager, Content Marketing Manager, and Growth Hacker.

The University of Arizona Global Campus is often featured at the top of business school rankings and ranks #2 in the U.S. with 318 Quality Matters (QM) certified courses ( Ref link ). The Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing is delivered via Simplilearn's bootcamp-style learning delivery model. This high-engagement learning model provides learners with an effective combination of online self-paced videos, live virtual classes, and online masterclasses conducted by top academicians of the University of Arizona Global Campus and industry experts.

With this intensive 5 to 6-month program, learners will gain knowledge on the practical aspects of Search Engine Optimization, Search Engine Marketing, Web Analytics, and Social Media Marketing through tools and hands-on practice. Learners will be further equipped with the fundamentals of digital marketing and receive training in content marketing, PPC, and digital analytics, leading to mastering social media, mobile marketing, and digital strategy. The program also offers a digital marketing Capstone project that allows learners to perform a project in a domain of their choice among Online Fashion, Smartphones, Electronics, FMCG, and Software.

On the completion of the program, learners receive a joint Professional Certificate in Digital Marketing by the Knowledge Innovation Center through its partnership with the University of Arizona Global Campus and Simplilearn. Certificates are awarded prior learning assessment credits toward a UAGC degree. Learners will also receive certificates from Simplilearn for all modules in the learning path.

Speaking about the program, Anand Narayanan, Chief Product Officer, Simplilearn said, "As economies evolve and businesses become digital-first, reaching audiences through relevant online and social platforms is no longer optional. With these platforms being constantly flooded with content, promotional communication, it is critical for today's marketers to have the skills to ensure they are heard and sustain a strong presence in this environment. Our latest program in Digital Marketing ensures that learners develop relevant and the key digital marketing skills for real career growth, learn them from experts active in the field, work on real-world problems, and get structured guidance, ensuring that learning and career success never stops."

"While the pandemic has disrupted ways of working, it has also pushed companies and educators to be innovators who think and act fast. We are pleased to be working with Simplilearn through our Knowledge Innovation Center to bring digital upskilling to the global audience. Digital Marketing skills will enable the new-age employee to stay ahead of the curve with the advantages of having the latest knowledge in the field. We look forward to working with Simplilearn and to bringing job-relevant learning to aspirants around the world," said Dr. Paula J.Zobisch, Vice President, Knowledge Innovation Center.

About Simplilearn

Founded in 2010 and based in San Francisco, California, and Bangalore, India, Simplilearn is the world's #1 online Bootcamp for digital economy skills training. Simplilearn offers access to world-class work-ready training to individuals and businesses around the world. The Bootcamps are designed and delivered with world-renowned universities, top corporations, and leading industry bodies via live online classes featuring top industry practitioners, sought-after trainers, and global leaders. From college students and early career professionals to managers, executives, small businesses, and big corporations, Simplilearn's role-based, skill-focused, industry-recognized, and globally relevant training programs are ideal upskilling solutions for diverse career or/and business goals.

For more information, please visit www.simplilearn.com/

About KIC & University of Arizona Global Campus:

The University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC), formerly Ashford University, is an online university operated in affiliation with the University of Arizona. It is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

The Knowledge Innovation Center (KIC) and the University of Arizona Global Campus (UAGC) have formed a strategic alliance to deliver a variety of "continuing education" options ancillary to degree programs. Every KIC course undergoes a prior learning assessment by the University and is focused on in-demand skills development.

For more information, please visit https://knowledgeinnovationcenter.com/about-us/

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Deventer, September 9, 2021 - RoodMicrotec N.V., a leading independent company for semiconductors supply and quality services, announces that it has been informed by Prime Capital Debt SCS, SICAV-FIS - Robus Recovery Sub-Fund ("Robus") that Robus has initiated legal proceedings before the Regional Court of Hamburg (Landgericht Hamburg) against its wholly owned subsidiary RoodMicrotec GmbH.

Robus is the holder of the perpetual bond (Genussscheine) of EUR 1,994k that RoodMicrotec GmbH issued in 2010 and of the perpetual bond of EUR 500k that RoodMicrotec GmbH issued in 2012. Robus claims that it is entitled to an 11.7% compensation payment in relation to 2017, 2018 and H1-2021. In addition, alleging non-compliance by RoodMicrotec GmbH of the terms and conditions of the perpetual bonds, Robus claims the repayment of the nominal amount of the perpetual bonds asserting the extraordinary termination of the perpetual bonds. The case that Robus has brought before the Regional Court of Hamburg regards the 2012 perpetual bond only and RoodMicrotec GmbH has been informed by Robus that the total amount claimed in the proceedings amounts to EUR 644k to be increased with interest (statutory interest (Basiszinssatz) plus 5%). Robus has informed RoodMicrotec GmbH that it has reserved its rights to also initiate litigation regarding the 2010 perpetual bond.

RoodMicrotec GmbH contests all allegations and claims, and denies that any compensation payments are due on the perpetual bonds or that any grounds for extraordinary termination of the perpetual bonds exist. Accordingly, RoodMicrotec GmbH will ask the court to reject Robus' claim.

RoodMicrotec N.V. will keep its shareholders and other stakeholders informed of significant developments and will issue additional statements if and when appropriate.

About RoodMicrotec

RoodMicrotec is a leading independent company for semiconductor supply and quality services. With more than 50 years of experience in the semiconductor and electronics industry, RoodMicrotec is well-established as a highly valued partner for many companies worldwide. The Company provides full-turnkey ASIC services for complex microchips that are customized to handle specific applications for individual customers. In cooperation with strong partners, RoodMicrotec manages the entire development and production flow of ASICs in the target volume, ranging from low quantities up to multiple millions per year. The turnkey solution includes project management, wafer test, assembly, final test, qualification, failure analysis and logistics. All services comply with

the industrial and quality requirements of the high reliability, aerospace, automotive, healthcare and industrial sectors. RoodMicrotec's headquarters are located in Deventer, Netherlands, with operational units in Nordlingen and Stuttgart, Germany.

For more information visit https://www.roodmicrotec.com

Further information

Martin Sallenhag - CEO, Arvid Ladega - CFO

Telephone: +31 570 745623 Email: investor-relations@roodmicrotec.comWeb: www.roodmicrotec.com

This press release is only published in English.This communication contains information that qualifies as inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.The company's managing director and CEO Martin Sallenhag, is responsible for arranging the release of this document on behalf of RoodMicrotec.

Anhang
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - Nutritional High International Inc. (CSE: EAT) ("Nutritional High" or the "Company") is pleased to provide a corporate update, including the acquisition of a revenue producing cannabis business in California and related potential significant revenue opportunities over the next 12-24 months, new brand launches in Colorado and Oregon, Company name change to High Fusion, talent recruitment, and future acquisition strategy.

"When I became CEO of Nutritional High in March 2020, the board and management team made a decision to establish a stable financial platform before expanding operations," stated Nutritional High CEO John Durfy. "That work has now been largely completed as we have reduced $24 million in debt, restructured a number of our corporate liabilities, sold or discontinued non-performing assets and secured the repayment of $2.7 million in investments to recapitalize our balance sheet. All this hard work and tough love allowed us to move to our next phase focused on growth. And as a first step, as previously announced, we acquired the business of OutCo Labs Inc. ("OutCo")."

Acquisition of OutCo Labs

Based in San Diego California, the OutCo business acquired by the Company comprise a fully integrated operation (including two medical dispensary locations, indoor cultivation, extraction, product manufacturing and an outdoor grow in Mendocino, California) which achieved revenues of US$8 million in 2020. Nutritional High is preparing audited financial reporting for OutCo and, once complete, the company will report on all relevant metrics such as costs, net income and margins. There is no assurance or expectation on the Company's behalf, that after completing the audit, that OutCo will have positive net profit.

As the company integrates the OutCo business into Nutritional High over the coming 12 months, Nutritional High plans to undertake an expansion of the cultivation capacity associated with the assets, extend their product reach beyond the current 75 retail dispensaries, and accelerate marketing efforts of OutCo branded products. The company also expects to take steps to re-brand OutCo's popular Thrive products targeting the seniors' market.

Two significant catalysts that Nutritional High anticipates for the OutCo business on the regulatory front are: (i) the expected upcoming ordinance change in October 2021 for the unincorporated county of San Diego which will allow OutCo's two dispensaries to convert from medical only to adult use, as well as manufacture and sell edibles and expand their indoor grow capacity, and (ii) an expected change of land use ordinance in Mendocino county anticipated in the next 3 months, to allow for a significant expansion of the outdoor cultivation associated with the OutCo business.

The above expansion of cultivation is expected to increase OutCo's indoor capacity by 100% within 12 months and, assuming a favourable land use ordinance in Mendicino, increase its outdoor capacity from  acre to 2 acres over the next 24 months and to 6 acres in the subsequent 12 months. Further, with the expected introduction of recreational sales in unincorporated San Diego, the foot traffic in OutCo's two retail locations is expected to drive materially higher volumes. The above expected growth in cultivation, the addition of new brands and edible products, broader distribution and the opening of recreational sales could provide for a significant increase in revenues over the next 12-18 months.

Colorado & Oregon Operations

With the acquisition of the Palo Verde license in Colorado earlier this year, Nutritional High is re-focusing on its award winning FLI brand with the addition of edibles to it's vape cart and an infused pre-roll line-up. Nutritional high also expects to add a premium "High Fusion" line of organic edibles, full spectrum carts, and a unique Kosher gummy product.

With the relaunch of our LaPine, Oregon, operation this month, Nutritional High will be introducing "Red Octopus", a new brand specific offering for Oregon containing a full spectrum vape cart and edibles, a premium "High Fusion" line-up of organic edibles as well as a Kosher gummy under the Dubbi Bros. brand.

Psychedelic Science Corporation

Our subsidiary Psychedelic Science Corporation ("PSC") is taking steps to investigate the medical benefits of various psychedelic cacti, some of which are used in spiritual rituals by the Native American Church (Peyotism). Ultimately, PSC plans to work toward securing approval from applicable drug regulatory agencies for the treatment of diseases with high unmet medical needs through filing of Investigational New Drug and/or New Drug Applications. No applications have been made to date and the timing of any applications is not yet known.

Focused on data and evidence generation, PSC is undertaking a compilation study of psychedelic cacti, which Nutritional High expects will further define PSC's path toward generating valuable and effective intellectual property focused on high value and effective treatments.

Cash Flow and Balance Sheet Improvements

The current management team has discontinued or sold unprofitable operations and restructured the Company's balance sheet with a reduction in debt of approximately $24 million including: the sale of Calyx Brands, reduction of liabilities by $11.8 million, conversion of the Company's unsecured convertible debentures into 14,835,284 post-consolidation common shares (as announced on October 30, 2020) and the settlement and conversion of $1.2 million of accounts payable into 2,212,679 post-consolidation units (as announced on August 4, 2020).

In March, 2021, management negotiated the repayment of an investment in Nevada and received securities valued, at that time, of approximately $2.7 million which is being used to fund Company activities as needed.

Future Acquisitions

Additional growth through acquisitions will remain a focus especially in Northern California for brands and manufacturing, and in Colorado for cultivation.

Name and Symbol Change

With new assets and a new management team, conditional on securing shareholder approval at the upcoming meeting of the shareholders, the Company will change its name to High Fusion, trading under the symbol FUZN on the Canadian Securities Exchange and HIGHF on the OTC. The name and symbol changes are expected to be implemented before the end of September 2021.

Successful Talent Recruitment

Over the past four months, the Company has successfully recruited a Chief Marketing Officer, Vice President of Manufacturing and Operations and a Corporate Controller. The Company's Chief Marketing Officer, Joe Sequenzia, will be responsible for the rebranding of the Company, relaunching our FLI brand in Colorado and a new "Red Octopus", premium brand in Oregon, Colorado and California. Joe's most recent roles were as Chief Marketing Officer for Caliva and CEO/Founder of Milk, a Connecticut based advertising agency.

Nutritional High has also appointed Simon Berdugo as Vice President of Manufacturing and Operations responsible for systemizing and centralizing operations with immediate focus on edibles. Simon has considerable domestic and international expertise in manufacturing and product development.

The Company also hired Edward Abella, CPA as corporate controller who will work with the CFO to develop and integrate the Company's accounting systems and practices. Edward previously worked at Dundee Precious Metals.

Closing Statement

"I want to thank all shareholders for their continued support of Nutritional High during this long and difficult restructuring," commented CEO John Durfy. "With many hard decisions and sacrifices, we are now excited to relaunch with a new name, a tighter capital structure, and a strong and expanding base of operations. This is just the beginning."

Adam Szweras, Chairman of the Board added: "I want to acknowledge the hard work of CEO John Durfy and CFO Rob Wilson and the rest of the Company's management team in bringing Nutritional High to this important point of rebirth. With a special thanks to our new partners in California, and a new and growing team in Oregon and Colorado, our full board is excited to see a new bright future ahead."

About Nutritional High International Inc.

Nutritional High, to be rebranded High Fusion, is focused on developing and manufacturing branded products in the cannabis industry, with a specific focus on edibles and oil extracts for medical and adult recreational use. The Company works exclusively in jurisdictions where such activity is permitted and regulated by state law.

Nutritional High has manufacturing, retail and grow operations in California through its acquisition of the business of OutCo, and owns and operates oil extraction and edible manufacturing facilities in Colorado and Oregon. The Company's brand portfolio includes its award winning FLI edibles and vape product, along with a number of new brands, including Red Octopus, planned for launch in the coming months.

The Company also owns Psychedelic Science which is taking steps to investigate the medical benefits of various psychedelic cacti. This division is working toward developing intellectual property for the treatment of diseases with high unmet medical needs.

For updates on the Company's activities and highlights of the Company's press releases and other media coverage, please follow Nutritional High on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit www.nutritionalhigh.com.

For further information, please contact:

Robert Wilson

Chief Financial Officer

Nutritional High International Inc.

416-666-4005

Email: rwilson@nutritionalhigh.com

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information:

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR OTC MARKETS GROUP INC., NOR THEIR REGULATIONS SERVICES PROVIDERS HAVE REVIEWED OR ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and information based on current expectations. These statements include statements regarding: the plans for the Company's business including the assets acquired from OutCo, the potential catalysts for the OutCo assets, the Company's plans for the Colorado and Oregon operations, developments within PSC, the possibility of future acquisitions and the timing of the proposed name and symbol change. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those implied by such statements. This forward-looking information reflects the Company's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to the Company and on assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. These assumptions include, but are not limited to: the ability of the Company to successfully execute its business plans; legal changes relating to the cannabis industry proceeding as anticipated; and the Company's continued response and ability to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic being consistent with, or better than, its ability and response to date.

The Company's securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or applicable state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold to, or for the account or benefit of, persons in the United States or "U.S. Persons", as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act, absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Additionally, there are known and unknown risk factors which could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information contained herein. Such risks and other factors may include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; the actual results of the Company's future operations; competition; cultivation yields; changes in legislation affecting the Company; obtaining and maintaining regulatory approvals including expected changes in unincorporated San Diego and Mendicino county approvals, acquiring and renewing U.S. state, local or other licenses, the uncertainty of existing protection from U.S. federal or other prosecution, regulatory or political change such as changes in applicable laws and regulations, including U.S. state-law legalization, market and general economic conditions of the cannabis sector or otherwise; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; lack of qualified, skilled labour or loss of key individuals; risks related to the COVID-19 pandemic including various recommendations, orders and measures of governmental authorities to try to limit the pandemic, including travel restrictions, border closures, non-essential business closures, service disruptions, quarantines, self-isolations, shelters-in-place and social distancing, disruptions to markets, economic activity, financing, supply chains and sales channels, and a deterioration of general economic conditions including a possible national or global recession; and a deterioration of financial markets that could limit the Company's ability to obtain external financing.

A description of additional risk factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Company's disclosure documents on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

Forward-looking information contained in this press release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. However, the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96029
LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Premium footwear brand Mallet London, founded by unconventional entrepreneur and recently named Forbes 30 Under 30, Tommy Mallet, will host a pop-up at 45 Carnaby Street from 11th September, 2021 through February 2022. "I always knew my first store would be on Carnaby Street. I used to visit it often when I was younger with my dad and it has always held a place in my heart," said Mallet. "In fact," he continued, "in 2018 I sketched a design for a Mallet store on Carnaby Street having no idea when and if it would happen. I based the store design on this original concept."

Carefully crafted to feel like a space within a space, the dark and moody vibe of the pop-up is designed to reflect the luxe DNA of the brand while still feeling welcoming and accessible. Mallet London's signature gold clip also played a part in the design as much of the framework is accented with gold finishes. The minimal footprint was designed with a modular build concept, allowing for less waste.

The modern and sleek 1061 sq. ft. space will house a number of Mallet London essentials including men's footwear and clothing. During London Fashion Week, the store will switch focus to the women's collection featuring top selling essentials and new styles.

As well as stocking some exclusive styles, the pop-up will also debut the highly sought-after collaboration between Mallet London and iconic Australian knitwear brand COOGI. The brands' previous collaboration in 2019 featured an exclusive and limited edition drop with two styles. The much anticipated release sold out within an hour. This time around, the drop will consist of Mallet's Cyrus silhouette swathed in COOGI's trademark colorful knit. Due to COOGI's unique patterning, no two pairs are alike. "The first drop was such a great success, we had to bring it back in a bigger way," noted Mallet. "Our Cyrus silhouette provides the perfect canvas for COOGI's bold designs."

COOGI's recognizable multicolored swirls were first popularized during the 90s hip-hop scene. The Australian brand continues to have lasting appeal as new generations of consumers discover its significance in fashion history and find innovative ways to incorporate it into modern fashion.

The limited edition styles, available in Black or White, are priced at 240 and will be available for purchase at mallet.com, Selfridges and at the Carnaby Street store.

"It's a proud day for me. Mallet is a British brand, I am a proud Brit, and opening my first store on the most iconic retail street in the UK, well, there is nothing more British than that," noted Mallet.

The Carnaby Street pop-up and COOGI collaboration are part of a busy year for Mallet London. The brand is currently in the midst of a major global expansion that includes launches at Selfridges London, Saks Fifth Avenue in the U.S., Harry Rosen in Canada and David Jones in Australia.

About Mallet London

Mallet London, was founded in 2015 by unconventional entrepreneur Tommy Mallet and businessman Evren Ozkarakasli. At just 28 years old, Tommy Mallet, recently named Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe for Retail & Ecommerce, has built a successful footwear business despite having no formal design training.

It all began with a spark of creativity from Tommy, combined with Evren's business experience. Mallet, an avid trainer collector and urban fashion trendsetter, had an idea for a unique pair of trainers. He couldn't find anything on the market that spoke to his style sensibility and was both affordable and high quality. Tommy eventually took matters into his own hands and sketched his idea. He then reached out to Evren, a friend who worked in the fashion industry, and asked if he could make his dream trainer a reality. Tommy and Evren collaborated on the design and production and sold their creations online as a trial, expecting their friends might be interested in purchasing them. The rest, as they say, is history. Less than six years later, the London based brand is now a major force in the premium footwear industry with distribution at 145 stores throughout the US, UK, and Europe in locations as far reaching as Dubai and South Africa. The brand is at home in some of the world's most distinguished stores including Selfridges, Harrods, Browns, Harvey Nichols, Level Shoes and Saks Fifth Avenue.

The brand, which carries both men's and women's sneakers and a small selection of apparel, is known for its bold yet minimalistic silhouettes with sleek soles fabricated from smooth supple leather. Mallet launches new styles each season but also maintains a core essentials collection. Signature details synonymous with the brand include the statement metal heel clip and the trademark "M" monogram. Prices start from 165.

About Carnaby

Carnaby is in the heart of London's West End, where over 100 retail brands of quality and distinction and over 60 independent restaurants, cafes and bars can be found across 14 streets, including the world famous Carnaby Street. Carnaby is a unique and iconic experiential shopping, dining and leisure destination.

Follow @CarnabyLondon and visit Carnaby.co.uk for full updates, news and information.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1612182/Mallet_London_x_COOGI_Black_70.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1612183/Mallet_London_x_COOGI_White_1_70.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1612184/Tommy_Mallet_Headshot.jpg
This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may," "future," "plan" or "planned," "will" or "should," "expected," "anticipates," "draft," "eventually" or "projected." You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in the Company's disclosures or filings with the SEC.

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - People have grown used to the traditional liquors and for the past 11 years Arkay, a food-tech company, has been creating an alcohol alternative that will take things to the next level.

Arkay Beverages Laboratory

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8177/96032_6cc3e5c0d475f966_001full.jpg

Florida-based Arkay Beverages uses capsaicin to make an alcohol protein that is "molecularly identical" to the protein in real alcohol, says co-founder Reynald Grattagliano. That means it can be used to make alcohol products such as vodka, rum, tequila, gin, and whisky.

"We were interested in the question of what is in alcohol ... that gives it incredible versatility and nutrition that is somehow missing from the botanical-based spirits alternative," says Grattagliano.

Arkay Beverages has assembled the gene that codes for the whey protein in alcohol's and introduced it into water. When the water is blended in tanks, it produces an alcohol molecule, which is then filtered and dried into a powder used in products including Arkay vodka and whisky - which are already on the shelves in the United States and Canada.

"[It's for] people who still love alcohol, but want to feel better about it for themselves, for the planet, and for their health," says Grattagliano.

It's also good for the environment. By removing wheat, grape, potato from the equation, the production of alcohol is "dramatically more efficient," says Grattagliano, producing up to 99% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional distillation.

The company is already reaching an international market, with its molecule infused drinks used in France, our flagship brand Arkay taste like regular liquor brands - and unlike some botanical-based spirits alternatives, is not made from distillation.

A rapidly growing market

Arkay Beverages is looking into science for sustainable alcohol solutions, as well as developing alcohol flavored products without alcohol all while excluding the fermentation process.

"Alcohol free alcohol drinks accounted for 0.001% of US liquor sales in 2020 and is expected to grow exponentially," says Reynald Grattagliano.

The sober Industry Created by Arkay Beverages is Estimated to be Worth $1,44 Trillion by 2025.

ABOUT ARKAY BEVERAGES

Since 2011, Arkay Beverages has been fine-tuning various zero-proof spirit recipes, including vodka, tequila, gin, whisky, bourbon, and brandy, among many others, for the appreciation of fine liquor without the alcohol.

Arkay Beverages' liquor-flavored drinks are for everyone to enjoy. The exceptional taste of liquor without the alcohol content makes it a perfect beverage day or night.

Arkay has 0% alcohol, and is designed to allow individuals with medical conditions or people looking for wellness options that reduce or prohibit alcohol consumption. Imagine being able to enjoy your favorite drinks at parties without worrying about drinking and driving, or just being able to keep healthy. You will not miss a thing, as Arkay tastes and looks exactly like traditional liquor. Providing that traditional burn and the flavor of a real liquor. It is suitable for drinking straight-up, on the rocks, or with your favorite mixers.

Arkay Beverages is a family-owned business. The company is not part of a large multinational conglomerate. Arkay is going Beyond Spirits, and Beyond Spirits is to liquors what Beyond Meat is to meat.

The Well-being of alcohol-free drinks

Arkay is riding on a wave of popularity and with good reason! It has become an increasingly versatile and healthy, modern beverage.

Arkay can provide several health benefits too and can offer a great boost to your mental focus and energy levels also. For instance, in terms of weight loss, Arkay Beverages can help improve your metabolism; it also contains several antioxidant properties that are beneficial to your health.

ABOUT REYNALD VITO GRATTAGLIANO

Reynald Vito Grattagliano is perfumer, self-made scientist, an entrepreneur, and philanthropist driven to solve the world's biggest challenges through innovation. Reynald is the spark behind the current alcohol-free spirit movement, having been the first in the field to imitate spirits giving consumers a sober option to a night out. He transformed himself into a perfumer millionaire before 30, establishing bottling plants worldwide, selling several times his companies, and making millions for himself.

As the founder of Arkay Beverages, Reynald Grattagliano sees beyond the current business and technological landscape, creating a real impact companies and being the doyen of the alcohol-free spirits category or zero proof spirits category.

Media Contact: ArKay Beverages Inc

Business website: https://arkaybeverages.com/

Phone: 917 657 7126 'WhatsApp only'

Like Arkay Beverages on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArKayBevInc/

Follow Arkay Beverages on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkaybeveragesusa/

Connect with Arkay on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ArKayBeverages/

Subscribe to Arkay Beverages Channel on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHrDTMbySu6dYCLmc0AQOcg

Connect with Reynald Grattagliano on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reynald-vito-grattagliano-b66244192/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96032
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (UAL) on Thursday announced that it was putting all of its unvaccinated employees on unpaid leave beginning from October 2. All these employees had sought exemption from the airlines' compulsory vaccination policy on religious as well as medical grounds. These include also those workers, whose exemptions have been approved. This move, the airlines said, was taken keeping in mind the safety of the airline workers and customers, given the present Covid-19 situation in the U.S. According to an airlines internal memo, employees with religious exemptions will be placed on temporary, unpaid personal leave, and those given medical exemptions will be sent on temporary medical leave. The airline has not made it clear how long the unpaid leave is going to be. The workers in 'operational customer-facing roles,' like pilots, flight attendants and customer service agents were informed that 'once the pandemic meaningfully recedes, you will be welcomed back to the team on active status.' Those in non-customer-facing roles, like technicians and dispatchers, need to take weekly COVID-19 tests and wear a mask all the time, including outdoors, the airline said. Employees who requested exemptions and were not given, will lose their jobs if they fail to get the first shot by September 27 or are not fully vaccinated within five weeks of the date of their denial notice. The airline company had asked all its U.S.-based employees to get vaccinated in early August as Covid cases began to rise, thus being the first U.S. airline to make a vaccine compulsory. Employees are required to upload a vaccine card showing proof of vaccination by September 27, which marks five weeks since the FDA gave full approval to the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / CIBT Education Group Inc. (TSX:MBA)(OTCQX:MBAIF) ("CIBT" or the "Company") is pleased to provide the following updates on its portfolio of academic assets and real estate investments.

Overview of CIBT's Portfolio of Academic Assets:

College Enrollments: Sprott Shaw College and Sprott Shaw Language College have seen a steady increase in registrations and enrollments for the fall 2021 and spring 2022 semesters as Canada re-opens its borders for international students. Most domestic students are also returning to campus across the province, contributing a steady volume of rental tenants to GEC rental properties.

Sprott Shaw College and Sprott Shaw Language College have seen a steady increase in registrations and enrollments for the fall 2021 and spring 2022 semesters as Canada re-opens its borders for international students. Most domestic students are also returning to campus across the province, contributing a steady volume of rental tenants to GEC rental properties. GEC Education Mega Center ("EMC") : EMC received rezoning approval on February 21 st , 2021 (1) . The Company's subsidiary, Global Education City Holdings Inc. (" Global Holdings "), will be submitting the development and building permit applications in the coming weeks. The design and technical drawings are nearly complete and will be ready for submission shortly. The total construction budget, including land cost, is $300 million.

: EMC received rezoning approval on February 21 , 2021 . The Company's subsidiary, Global Education City Holdings Inc. (" "), will be submitting the development and building permit applications in the coming weeks. The design and technical drawings are nearly complete and will be ready for submission shortly. The total construction budget, including land cost, is $300 million. GEC King Edward : Construction of GEC King Edward started in January 2021. The Company expects construction to be completed by the summer of 2022, in time for the fall 2022 school semester, adding 180 beds and 46,000 gross buildable square feet to the portfolio. The total construction budget, including land cost, is $44 million.

: Construction of GEC King Edward started in January 2021. The Company expects construction to be completed by the summer of 2022, in time for the fall 2022 school semester, adding 180 beds and 46,000 gross buildable square feet to the portfolio. The total construction budget, including land cost, is $44 million. Other Operational GEC Properties : Since the gradual re-opening of the economy and Canada's borders, the occupancy rate has reached 90% to 100% at most GEC locations. Additionally, rental rates have returned to their February 2020 pre-COVID levels at most properties.

: Since the gradual re-opening of the economy and Canada's borders, the occupancy rate has reached 90% to 100% at most GEC locations. Additionally, rental rates have returned to their February 2020 pre-COVID levels at most properties. CBRE Sales Transaction : Since the marketing launch on May 25 th , 2021 (2) , Global Holdings has processed 31 potential buyer due diligence requests and has received ten written offers to purchase a portion of or the entire portfolio of the GEC branded operational properties offered for sale. These offers range from the purchase of one hotel to all of the offered GEC branded rental apartments and five parcels of land at the rezoning phase. Global Holdings has accepted one offer for the purchase of two buildings and continues to negotiate the valuation of four other buildings and five parcels of land.

: Since the marketing launch on May 25 , 2021 , Global Holdings has processed 31 potential buyer due diligence requests and has received ten written offers to purchase a portion of or the entire portfolio of the GEC branded operational properties offered for sale. These offers range from the purchase of one hotel to all of the offered GEC branded rental apartments and five parcels of land at the rezoning phase. Global Holdings has accepted one offer for the purchase of two buildings and continues to negotiate the valuation of four other buildings and five parcels of land. New projects under review: A proposal to purchase a parcel of land on the Cambie Street corridor submitted by Global Holdings is pending the seller's acceptance. In addition, Global Holdings is in discussion with prospective partners to explore the opportunity to acquire ownership in a substantial project in Metro Vancouver, B.C. Negotiations on these initiatives are underway and will continue in the coming weeks.

Toby Chu, Chairman and CEO of CIBT Education Group Inc. commented "A recent news article on the Dailyhive online news source described a massive development plan for the Marine Gateway area in Vancouver located across the street from the GEC Marine Gateway site that was purchased in October 2020. This latest proposed expansion in the Marine Gateway area will add more value and popularity to a high-demand nighbourhood. News link: https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/marine-gateway-2-pci-developments-8530-cambie-street-vancouver

"As part of Global Holdings' strategic plans, at least three other GEC properties are located within one city block from other major developments in Metro Vancouver, including the following:

GEC Oakridge will be located across from the Oakridge development project dubbed as the largest development in Vancouver's history (https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/oakridge-centre-redevelopment-vancouver-2018-design )

Global Education City (Richmond) will be located across the street from the proposed Lansdowne Mall development of 10,000 new homes ( https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/lansdowne-centre-mall-redevelopment-approved-richmond )

GEC Education Mega Center will be located across the street from the proposed massive SFU expansion and office towers development at the Central Business District of Surrey, B.C. (https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/surrey-central-station-centre-block-redevelopment )

Our fiscal 2022 target is to monetize 0.27 million square feet of our operating properties, continue to develop and construct 1.14 million square feet including the Education Mega Center in Surrey, and potentially replenish our inventory with approximately 1.1 million square feet of new properties. The expansion of our real estate portfolio remains a primary objective for us as we look to accelerate the growth of CIBT moving forward."

1: https://cibt.net/blog/2021/02/23/cibts-gec-education-mega-center-receives-city-council-approval-at-third-public-hearings/

2: https://cibt.net/blog/2021/05/25/cbre-commences-marketing-launch-to-monetize-a-portion-of-cibts-real-estate-portfolio/

About CIBT Education Group:

CIBT is one of Canada's largest education services and academic real estate companies. With a global presence since 1994, CIBT employs nearly 600 staff at 45 business locations and operates a global network of 2,500 recruitment agents. In 2020, the group provided education, student recruitments and accommodation services to over 11,000 students. Its real estate portfolio, including operating assets and development budget, exceeds $1.5 billion.

CIBT's education subsidiaries include Sprott Shaw College (established in 1903), Sprott Shaw Language College, Vancouver International College Career Campus, CIBT School of Business and Global Education Alliance. These subsidiaries offer over 150 accredited educational programs in healthcare, business, e-commerce, cyber-security, hotel management, language training and recruitment services at 29 locations in Canada and abroad.

CIBT's real estate subsidiary, Global Education City Holdings Inc. ("Global Holdings"), develops and manages academic assets such as student-centric rental apartments, corporate housing, hotel and education super-centres. Since 2015, Global Holdings has provided B2B accommodation service to 90 schools in Metro Vancouver and B2C direct registration of 6,000 students from 71 countries. The GEC branded portfolio comprises 10 projects, 15 buildings spanning nearly 1.5 million square feet, including operational, under-construction and development properties.

CIBT also owns Irix Design Group Inc. ("Irix Design"). Irix Design is a leading design and advertising company that services over one hundred corporate clients, including CIBT. Visit us online at www.cibt.net.

Toby Chu

Chairman, President & CEO

CIBT Education Group Inc.

Investor Relations Contact: 1-604-871-9909 extension 319 or | Email: info@cibt.net

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Some statements in this news release contain forward-looking information (the "forward-looking statements") about CIBT and its plans. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, without limitation, the statement thatdevelopment and building permit applications for Education Mega Center will be submitted in the coming weeks, that construction of GEC King Edward is expected to be completed by the summer of 2022, and that the fiscal 2022 target is to monetize 0.27 million square feet of operating properties, continue to develop and construct 1.14 million square feet including the Education Mega Center in Surrey, and potentially replenish inventory with approximately 1.1 million square feet of new properties. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties and other factors (collectively, the "Risks") that could cause CIBT's actual results or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in or implied by forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the Company's ability to negotiate and close sale transactions relating to current GEC locations, the Company's ability to identify and acquire properties for new GEC locations and to fund the acquisition and construction costs of such new locations, the Company's ability to obtain all required municipal approvals in a timely manner, and usual construction risks. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions and expectations of CIBT's management at the time they are made, and CIBT does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions or expectations, or other circumstances should change, except as may be required by law. If CIBT updates any forward-looking statement(s), no inference should be drawn that the Company will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: CIBT Education Group Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663434/CIBT-Provides-Update-on-its-Portfolio-of-Academic-Assets-and-Real-Estate-Investments
Early Warning Report Issued Pursuant to National Instrument 62-103

Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - September 9, 2021) - ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp. (CSE: ISFT) (the "Company" or "ICEsoft") is pleased to announce the issuance and sale of 32,000,000 units at $0.05 per unit for gross cash proceeds of CAD $1,500,000 and the settlement of CAD $100,000 of debt as part of the previously announced private placement (the "Private Placement"). Each unit consists of (i) one common share in the capital of the Company (each, a "Common Share"), and (ii) one common share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a "Warrant"), with each Warrant entitling the holder to subscribe for one additional Common Share at an exercise price of CAD $0.08 per share at any time prior to the day that is 36 months from the grant of the Warrant.

No finder's fees were paid with respect to the completion of the Private Placement. The proceeds, net of transaction costs, of the Private Placement are expected to be used for general working capital and to accelerate sales and fund new market expansion efforts.

The Private Placement was led by I Shen Capital Fund I L.P., through its General Partner, Shen Capital Management Inc. ("Shen Capital") which subscribed for CAD $1,300,000 of units. Following the Private Placement, Shen Capital will own or control 26,000,000 Common Shares and 26,000,000 Warrants to purchase Common Shares, being 23.2% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares and 37.6% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Shen Capital and its joint actors. Neither Shen Capital nor any of its affiliates owned any Common Shares or other securities of the Company prior to the completion of the Private Placement.

As part of the Private Placement, the Company entered into a nominating rights agreement with Shen Capital pursuant to which Shen Capital was granted a right to designate one nominee for election at any applicable shareholders meeting of the Company and one board observer so long as it holds at least 5% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis. Accordingly, Mr. Francis Shen, President of Shen Capital has been appointed to the Company's Board of Director's and Mr. Andrew Shen has been designated an observer on the Company's Board of Directors with immediate effect, each as nominees of Shen Capital. In order to provide room, Mr. Bruce Derrick has resigned from the Company's Board of Director's with immediate effect.

On the basis that Bruce Derrick is a director and a beneficial owner of, and/or has control or direction over, directly or indirectly, more than 10% of the Common Shares, and Nine Three Holdings LLC is a beneficial owner of, and/or has control or direction over, directly or indirectly, more than 10% of Common Shares, and Brian McKinney is a director and a beneficial owner of, and/or has control or direction over, directly or indirectly, more than 10% of the Common Shares, have each participated in the Private Placement, the sale and issuance of 1,000,000 units for gross proceeds of CAD $50,000 to Mr. Derrick, and the sale and issuance of 3,000,000 units for gross proceeds of CAD $150,000 to Nine Three Holdings LLC, and the sale and issuance of 2,000,000 units to Mr. McKinney in exchange for debt settlement of CAD $100,000 in subordinated unsecured debt, including accrued and unpaid interest and deferred salary, are a "related party transactions" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61 101 ("MI 61-101").

In conducting their review and approval process of the Private Placement, the board of directors of the Company determined that the preparation and distribution of a formal valuation and the seeking of shareholder approval for, and in connection with, the Private Placement was not necessary under MI 61 101 because: (a) for the purposes of Sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61 101, the issuer is not listed on certain specified markets as provided by MI 61-101, (b) at the time the related party transactions were agreed to, neither the fair market value of the subject matter of, nor the fair market value of the consideration for, the related party transactions, exceeded 25 per cent of the Company's market capitalization; and (c) the disinterested directors of the Company (i.e., those other than Mr. Derrick and Mr. McKinney) have approved the Private Placement. The material change report in relation to the related party transactions was not filed less than 21 days before the closing date of the Private Placement as the Company wished to complete the Private Placement expediently.

Following the Private Placement, Mr. Derrick owns or controls 18,041,959 Common Shares, Options to purchase 150,000 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 4,374,867 Common Shares, being 16.1% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares and 19.3% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Mr. Derrick. Mr. Derrick owned or controlled 17,041,959 Common Shares, Options to purchase 150,000 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 3,374,867 Common Shares, being 21.3% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares prior to the Private Placement and 24.6% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Mr. Derrick.

Following the Private Placement, Nine Three Holdings LLC owns or controls 14,250,000 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 4,875,000 Common Shares, being 12.7% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares and 16.3% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Nine Three Holdings LLC. Nine Three Holdings LLC owned or controlled 11,250,000 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 1,875,000 Common Shares, being 14.0% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares prior to the Private Placement and 16.0% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Mr. Derrick.

Mr. McKinney also acquired 1,155,781 Common Shares on June 15, 2020 upon the conversion of CAD$173,367.23 of debt (the "2020 PP"). Following the Private Placement, Mr. McKinney owns or controls 13,088,821 Common Shares, Options to purchase 1,500,000 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 3,680,000 Common Shares, being 11.7% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares and 15.6% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Mr. McKinney. Mr. McKinney owned or controlled 9,933,040 Common Shares, and Warrants to purchase 1,680,000 Common Shares, being 12.6% of the outstanding Common Shares prior to the 2020 PP and 14.4% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Mr. McKinney.

Following the Private Placement, Shen Capital and its joint actors beneficially owned, controlled or directed 26,000,000 Common Shares and 26,000,000 Warrants to purchase Common Shares, being 23.2% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares and 37.6% assuming conversion or exercise of all securities owned or controlled by Shen Capital and its joint actors. Neither Shen Capital nor any of its affiliates owned any Common Shares or other securities of the Company prior to the completion of the Private Placement. Each of Mr. Derrick, with an address of 3900 Essex Lane, Suite 340, Houston Texas, Nine Three Holdings LLC, with an address of 3900 Essex Lane, Suite 340 Houston Texas, Brian McKinney with an address of 324 30 Royal Oak Plaza NW, Calgary, Alberta and Shen Capital with an address of 905-130 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1N5 advises that the securities have been acquired for investment purposes. Each of Mr. Derrick, Mr. McKinney and Shen Capital advises that each may, depending on the market and other conditions, increase or decrease his or its beneficial ownership of the Company's securities, whether in the open market, by privately negotiated agreements or otherwise, subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and other available investment and business opportunities. A copy of the Early Warning Report filed by each of Mr. Derrick, Nine Three Holdings LLC, Mr. McKinney and Shen Capital with additional information in respect of the foregoing matters may be found on www.SEDAR.com or copy can be requested from ICEsoft Investor Relations at 403-993-3322.

The securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement will be subject to a hold period under applicable securities laws, which will expire four months plus one day from the date of the applicable closing of the Private Placement. Closing of the Private Placement is subject to receipt of all necessary corporate and regulatory approvals, including approval of the Canadian Securities Exchange.

About ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp.

ICEsoft Technologies Canada Corp. is a software-as-a-service ("SaaS") company. ICEsoft's current software, which is available as freeware with a pay to use version, is used by some 150,000 developers, 20,000 companies, and some 400 paying customers. ICEsoft's newest product Voyent Alert! is an affordable Community Alerting Service specifically designed to meet the needs of small to medium sized municipalities, regional governments and enterprise. The flexible platform serves the dual purpose of alerting and advising residents and employees during a critical incident as well as providing targeted day-to-day communication services.

For more information, please contact:

Brian McKinney

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tel: 403-663-3320

Address: Suite 260 - 3553 31st St. NW, Calgary, AB T2L 2K7

The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS MARKET REGULATOR (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE THIS NEWS RELEASE, REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE CANADIAN LAWS, IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES, AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL SECURITIES AND THE COMPANY IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THE SECURITIES DESCRIBED HEREIN. THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE UNITED STATES SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, OR ANY STATE SECURITIES LAWS, AND MAY NOT BE OFFERED OR SOLD IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO U.S. PERSONS UNLESS REGISTERED OR EXEMPT THEREFROM.

Forward-Looking Information Advisory

Certain statements made herein may contain forward-looking statements or information within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities laws. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", or "believes" or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information herein include, but are not limited, to statements or information with respect to the completion of the Private Placement, and the use of proceeds of the Private Placement.

Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information by their nature are based on assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. We have made certain assumptions about the forward-looking statements and information, including receipt of all approvals required for the Private Placement and the use of proceeds of the Private Placement. Although our management believes that the assumptions made and the expectations represented by such statements or information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate. Furthermore, should one or more of the risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include the ability to receive the approvals necessary to complete the Private Placement, and those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in the Company's Listing Statement dated May 27, 2019 and in the Company's most recent Management Discussion and Analysis filed on SEDAR.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements or information contained herein. Except as required by law, we do not expect to update forward-looking statements and information continually as conditions change and you are referred to the full discussion of the Company's business contained in the Company's reports filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada.

All forward-looking statements and information contained in this News Release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/96067
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / September 9, 2021 / AdvanceTC Ltd (NSX:A88)(OTCQB:ATCLF) ("AdvanceTC" or the "Company") has been requested by OTC Markets Group Inc. to issue this statement about promotional activity concerning its common stock.

On September 3, 2021, OTC Markets informed the Company that it became aware of certain promotional activities concerning the Company and its common stock traded on the OTCQB Marketplace, including the distribution of two promotional newsletter e-mails, each dated September 3, 2021, one published by Epic Stocks Picks and the other by Green Leaf Pot Stocks, discussing the Company, its products and the global size of the satellite phone technology market. The publications also contained a summary of several recent press releases issued by AdvanceTC. OTC Markets provided examples of the promotional material for reference. The Company was not aware of the articles before receiving them from OTC Markets.

The Company takes its investor relations practices seriously, including its obligations to release material information which might reasonably be expected to have significant effect on the market price or value of its securities.

By way of background, the Company's ordinary shares have traded for many years on the National Stock Exchange of Australia (NSX) under the symbol A88. The Company sought to have its shares trade in the U.S. markets and to provide information about the Company. The Company's applied to have its common shares accepted for trading on the OTC Markets. The shares were accepted for trading in early 2021, and the Company secured DTC eligibility by The Depository Trust Company for its shares on the OTC Markets effective March 5, 2021. The Company originally deposited 8,000,000 of its ordinary shares with DTC.

In connection with the Company's efforts to increase its brand and company awareness in the United States, the Company engaged Strattner Group ("Strattners") to make introductions to investment banks and broker-dealer firms, attorneys, consultants, public relations firms, investor relations firms, brand awareness firms, and digital marketing companies in an effort to assist the Company with its goal of achieving broader market awareness and getting the Company's stocks trading in the US markets.

Through August 2021, Strattners worked with several firms to increase awareness of the Company. Additionally, since the Company's shares began trading on the OTC Markets, the Company has issued several press releases relating to the Company's achievements and accomplishments, all of which have been included on the Company's page on the OTC Markets.

In August 2021, Strattners engaged an outside firm to provide marketing services. To the Company's knowledge, that outside marketing firm engaged additional contractors to provide marketing services, which included Epic Stock Picks ("Epic") and Green Leaf Pot Stocks ("Green"), the firms that issued the newsletter emails.

To the Company's knowledge, Epic Stock Picks ("Epic") is a third-party marketing and advertising firm that provides content distribution and advertising services. Green Leaf Pot Stocks ("Green") appears to have a similar business plan. Both Epic and Green state that their newsletters are owned and operated by Link Media.

Each of the newsletters presented factual statements regarding the Company, its business and industry, seemingly drawn from the Company's press releases. Neither the Company nor Strattners viewed or had any editorial control over the materials, and did not review the materials for factual accuracy or even see them prior to their dissemination. While the Company does not believe the factual statements in the newsletters that were based on the Company's prior press releases were false or misleading, both newsletters included information and language that went beyond the factual statements in the Company's press releases. As noted, neither the Company nor Strattners had any control over the content of the promotional materials.

Since the Company's shares began trading on the OTC Markets, trading volumes for the Company's common shares on the OTCQB have been relatively minimal and sporadic. The Company acknowledges that trading volume on September 3, 2021, the date of the two newsletters referenced above, was significantly higher than previous daily volume levels, and that the price experienced an increase on that date compared to that of prior trading days.

As noted, neither the Company nor its officers or directors was involved with the creation of the information in the newsletters, other than the information that was gleaned from the Company's press releases, which press releases were prepared and issued by the Company.

After due inquiry, the Company confirms that it is not aware of any of its directors and control persons, its officers, directors, or any shareholders owning 10% or more of the Company's securities, that may have, directly or indirectly, been involved in any way with the creation or distribution of promotional materials related to the Company and its securities, other than the preparation of the Company's press releases the substance of which was included in the referenced newsletters. As noted above, Strattners was involved in engaging the outside marketing firm that engaged Epic and Green, and advanced funds to the outside marketing firm for partial payment of the marketing services. However, Strattners had no involvement in the creation or distribution of the promotional materials or newsletters.

After due inquiry of management, the directors, control persons, and any third-party service providers, the Company can confirm that neither the Company, its officers, directors, any controlling shareholders, or any third-party service providers have sold or purchased the Company's securities within the past 90 days, except that Strattners has sold approximately 1,289,857 shares of the Company's common stock in the past 90 days.

Other than as disclosed above, the Company has not engaged any third-party providers to provide investor relations services, public relations services, marketing, or other related services including the promotion of the Company or its securities in the last twelve months.

The Company has not issued any convertible instruments allowing conversion to equity securities at prices that constituted a discount to the current market rate at the time of the issuance of such convertible instruments. The Company has also not issued shares at a discount to the market price.

About AdvanceTC Limited

AdvanceTC is a premier company specializing in the design, development and commercialization of high tech mobile wireless computing and telecommunication devices since 2005. AdvanceTC W3, a full Windows OS microcomputer integrated with cellucar telephony capabilities and the Xplore X7 the world first android smartphone with satellite messaging and emergency service, fully designed and developed using its own patented proprietary technology and engineering innovation.

For further information please contact:

CONTACT:

Name: CP Loi/ Chief Executive Officer

Email: loicp@advancetc.com

Website: www.advancetc.us

Forward Looking Information

This news release may contain forward looking statements relating to the information discussed, and the future potential of AdvanceTC. Forward looking statements are often identified by terms such as "will," "may," "should," "intends," "anticipates," "expects," "plans," and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

The Company cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will materialize and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements except as expressly required by Australian or U.S. securities laws.

SOURCE: AdvanceTC Ltd

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/663469/AdvanceTC-Ltd-Responds-to-Recent-Promotional-Activities-Pursuant-to-OTC-Markets-Request
AirBolt, a Melbourne, Australia-based consumer and enterprise tracking and access company, closed a $2M AUD Seed funding round.

The round was led by by 72Capital.

The company intends to use the funds to expand its range of connected devices and global partnerships, to grow internationally, expand into new product categories, and enhance its global live tracking service.

Founded by Kabir Sidhu in 2015, AirBolt provides a product suite that includes a smart travel lock, a Bluetooth-enabled Smart Travel Sized Lock and a GPS, LTE-M, and NB-IoT tracker.

The company is now scheduled to deliver the GPS units later this year and will continue to grow their US and European presence through their distribution and key hires.

FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Leap, a San Francisco, CA-based study abroad platform for South Asia, raised $55m in Series C funding.

The round, which brought the total equity capital raised by the startup to date to over $75m, was led by Owl Ventures with participation from Harvard Management Company, Inc. and existing investors Jungle Ventures and Sequoia Capital India.

The company intends to use the funds to extend its service suite to students across SE Asia and MENA regions and enable them to pursue their global education aspirations across more than 20 destination countries, and to broaden its product portfolio to offer more innovative solutions to international students.

Founded in 2019 by Vaibhav Singh and Arnav Kumar, Leap is an online platform offering end-to-end services for students pursuing international education and careers. Headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Bangalore (India), the company offers international test preparation, professional admissions counseling, student loans, international student bank accounts, foreign currency remittance, and international career guidance. It runs a million-member strong community of international study aspirants in South Asia and has helped over 60,000 students in their study abroad journey over the last 18 months.

In August 2021, the company announced that it plans to hire 500 employees by the end of the year, in India and abroad, to fortify its product and technology stack.

FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Nuula, a Toronto, Ontario, Canada-based fintech company focused on small businesses, raised $120m in funding.

The total is made up of:

$20m in equity funding led by Edison Partners that will accelerate the brands launch and drive adoption of the Nuula mobile app, and

$100m credit facility provided by funds managed by the Credit Group of Ares Management Corporation that will provide scale to the apps integrated credit product.

Led by Mark Ruddock, CEO, Nuula is a financial services and technology company providing real-time data and analytics, allowing small to medium-sized businesses to manage their cash-flow, monitor their credit ratings and user reviews, and more.

The initial launch of the companys mobile application in June 2021 delivers real-time monitoring of cash flow, personal and business credit activity, and social ratings and reviews. Beyond these tools, Nuula will shortly be adding the capability for small business owners to monitor other critical metrics including financial, payments and eCommerce data, all from the app.

It will also soon unveil its plans to provide access to a range of innovative financial products within its ecosystem, including an on-demand line of credit for small businesses.

FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Octopus Network, a Tokyo, Japan-based multi-chain cryptonetwork for bootstrapping and running appchains, raised $5M in Series A funding.

The round was led by Continue, Youbi, DCG, GFS Ventures, Vestigium, Autonomy Capital, LCG Ventures, Bluehelix, Finance Ventures, Jubi Lab, GTA Venture, Gains Associates, Aussie Capital, K300 Venture, Mayor Capital, NetZero Capital, ELEVATE, Chainridge, Megala Ventures, VIC Group, Jigsaw, OIG Ventures, Bigcoin Capital, Meridian Capital, Westorm, Move Capital and Gate.io with participation from Debio, Myriad Social, and Discovol.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate growth and expand operations.



Led by Louis Liu, Founder, Octopus Network provides a multi-chain cryptonetwork for bootstrapping and running Web3.0 application-specific blockchains and aka appchains. The company plans to launch its mainnet in September, and its first appchain, DeBio, a decentralised biomed network, in October. The Octopus Foundation will directly fund 20 appchain projects through the Octopus Accelerator Program each year, granting them up to $1M in total per year. The Octopus Accelerator Program is a collection of open and composable courses and seminars available to both Substrate developers and Web3.0 teams worldwide.



FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Snyk, a Boston, MA-based developer security company, raised $530m in Series F funding at a valuation of $8.5 billion post this round.

The transaction included both primary and secondary offerings with more than $300m of new capital.

The round was co-led by Sands Capital Ventures and Tiger Global, with participation from new investors Baillie Gifford, Koch Strategic Platforms, Lone Pine Capital, T. Rowe Price and Whale Rock Capital Management as well as existing investors Accel, Addition, Alkeon, Atlassian Ventures, funds managed by BlackRock, Boldstart Ventures, Canaan Partners, Coatue, Franklin Templeton, Geodesic Capital, Salesforce Ventures and Temasek.

The company intends to use the funds to accelerate product innovation and development, introduce new enhancements to its Developer Security Platform, new workflow integrations, improved functionality and new features at that time.

Led by Peter McKay, CEO, Snyk provides a platform that allows developers to build secure applications and secure all of the critical components of their applications from code to cloud. Its Developer Security Platform automatically integrates with a developers workflow and is purpose-built for security teams to collaborate with their development teams. Snyk is used by 1,200 customers worldwide today, including industry leaders such as Asurion, Google, Intuit, MongoDB, New Relic, Revolut and Salesforce.

To help Snyk continue to execute on these ambitious growth plans, the company has enhanced its Leadership Team with the addition of Chief Revenue Officer, Dino DiMarino, who will join the company early next month. DiMarino is one of several new experienced leaders recently added to the Snyk team, following the hiring of Chief People Officer Adriana Bokel Herde earlier this month as well as Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer, Jeff Yoshimura, CIO Erica Geil and Vice President, Asia Pacific Japan (APJ) Sales, Shaun McLagan earlier this year.

FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Varo Bank, a San Francisco, CA-based all-digital, nationally chartered bank, closed a $510m funding round.

The round was led by new investor Lone Pine Capital, who was joined by dozens of additional new investors including Declaration Partners, Eldridge, Marshall Wace, Berkshire Partners / Stockbridge, and funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, as well as existing investors Warburg Pincus, The Rise Fund, Gallatin Point Capital, and HarbourVest Partners.

The company intends to use the funds to further accelerate customer growth and investment in product and technology innovation.

Led by Colin Walsh, CEO and founder, Varo Bank offers customers premium bank accounts that have no minimum balance requirement or monthly account fee, savings accounts, and tech-first features to help people save and manage their money.

In the last 13 months since obtaining its bank charter, Varo doubled its opened accounts to four million. In addition, the company has tripled its revenue, and expanded its suite of innovative financial products to include Varo Advance, a short-term line of credit, Varo Perks cashback rewards, and the forthcoming Varo Believe credit building credit card program. In addition, employee count has nearly doubled, with the company expanding into a third hub in Charlotte, North Carolina.

FinSMEs

09/09/2021
Tampa, FL (33646)

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Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High around 90F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

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U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell shared his thoughts on the COVID-19 vaccine and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, among other topics, during a recent visit to Pikeville.

McConnell visited Pikeville on Sept. 1 to speak at a joint luncheon for the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Pikeville Rotary Club.

McConnell talks COVID-19 vaccines, mandates

First, he discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and how the development of the COVID-19 vaccine relates to the polio vaccine, which took almost 50 years to create and has directly led to the near-eradication of the disease throughout the globe.

McConnell said that Operation Warp Speed  a public-private partnership initiated by the U.S. government to facilitate and accelerate the development of multiple COVID-19 vaccines  helped create three highly effective, available vaccines in the span of one year.

By any estimation, it was a modern medical miracle, he said. I must say, it never occurred to me that people would be reluctant to take it.

He urged people to not listen to false information about the vaccines because the truth is that vaccinations prevent severe illness, hospitalization and death.

On Sept. 1, Pikeville Medical Center reported that, of the 86 total COVID patients being hospitalized, 80 patients were unvaccinated, while only six patients were fully vaccinated. Also, of the 18 total COVID patients that were admitted into the ICU, 17 were unvaccinated and only one was fully vaccinated.

What we have here is a crisis of the unvaccinated, and we know a lot of people who are flooded with a lot of misinformation from a variety of different sources that are available to all of us these days, who actually seem to be buying into this, McConnell said. Let me just tell you: Its a fact, not an opinion, its a fact that 90 percent of people in the hospital are unvaccinated. That should tell us all something. The only way to get out of this challenge is to get vaccinated.

McConnell said, though, that he does not support blanket mandates requiring vaccinations.

I think its up to the school boards and businesses to make that decision, he said. I think people in government throwing around mandates typically produces an adverse reaction, and it seems to me that people best able to make decisions on things like mandates are people closest to the people that are being mandated, whether its your employer, your school board or your local hospital. I dont think its the job of someone like me to do anything other than point out what the truth is. The truth should not be unimportant in our country.

McConnell criticizes Afghanistan withdrawal

Then, during his speech, McConnell expressed harsh criticism for the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, saying that he has always expressed support for remaining in Afghanistan throughout the past two decades.

I argued to President Obama, and to President Trump, and to President Biden that the rather small footprint that we had in Afghanistan was in our own best interest. I think, as weve now seen, the total withdrawal from Afghanistan is important to remember why we went there in the first place, he said. We didnt go there thinking they were going to become a Western-type democracy. We went there to keep the Taliban  a bunch of barbarians  from being in charge of the country and allowing terrorist groups like them from attacking us again here at home.

The War in Afghanistan began under the administration of former President George W. Bush and lasted for 20 years as Americas longest war. In February 2020, former President Donald Trump signed a peace deal with the Taliban, which paved the way to withdrawal and included the promised release of at least 5,000 Taliban prisoners by the U.S. Then, President Joe Biden extended the deadline for the withdrawal from May to August this year and continued with pulling out American forces, despite the Talibans rapid takeover of the country earlier in August, according to NPR.

During his Pikeville visit, McConnell said that it was in the best interests of the country to remain in Afghanistan.

Why does America occasionally have foreign presence? Because its in our best interest. Were not doing this for charitable reasons, he said. Its in our best interest to be in South Korea to prevent North Koreans from taking over the whole peninsula. Its in our best interest to be in Japan, particularly given the rise in challenges we have in China. Its in our best interest to be in Europe because of the Russians. So, this is not some charity mission. It was in our best interest to go there (Afghanistan), and I think its a mistake to leave.

He said that he does not believe the withdrawal was a success because there were former U.S. translators and American allies, as well as thousands of Afghan civilians, who were left behind due to the rapid way that the evacuations took place as the Taliban quickly took over the country.

The definition of success is to leave no one behind and leave no American behind enemy lines, McConnell said. Many congressional offices were being flooded with calls from American veterans, who had friends over there who were communicating with them, and they were trying to get them out. This is a botched job of gargantuan proportions and an embarrassment onto our great country.

He also said that he believes this situation is worse than the fall of Saigon.

I think its worse than Saigon. There werent any Vietnamese terrorist groups in Vietnam planning to attack us here at home, he said. They were glad for us to go, but they stayed there and they didnt try to come over here and wreak havoc. Well get past this, but I think its a stain on our national honor and a disgraceful performance. I couldnt feel more strongly that I think this was a huge mistake.

While criticizing the withdrawal, though, McConnell specifically addressed veterans who served during the war and urged them not to believe that the mission in the country was a failure.

I think the mission was a success, he said. If any of you in the room served in Afghanistan or know people who did  and we have plenty of Kentuckians who did  I dont want a single one of them to think that mission was not a success. It was a success. We lost people, but it was not in vain because the goal was achieved.

Moving forward, he said that he believes impeachment of President Joe Biden is unlikely.

The President is not going to be removed from office, he said. Its a Democratic House and a narrowly-Democratic Senate. Thats not going to happen. In this country, the report card you get is every two years and were trying to hold down the damage until next year.

However, McConnell said that it is historically unlikely that the president will gain political seats in Congress during the midterm elections after his first two years.

If the elections were held tomorrow, the presidents approval rate is down to 40 (percent), and it was at 54 percent about two months ago, McConnell said. So, I think the way these behaviors get adjusted in this country is through the ballot box. In the meantime, were trying to stop most of this as much as we can. [] I have a feeling that the American people didnt think they voted for this government.
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Providence United Methodist Church in Spanish Fort is donated 350 gallons of gas to help search and rescue crews in Louisiana. Clark Ratcliffe says when the church saw Daphne Search and Rescue was taking gas to Louisiana, they immediately reached out to chaplain tony dickey about paying for the next round. The church donating around 350 gallons of gas which totaled out to about $1000. The gas will be going to help the Cajun Coastal Search and Rescue keep their vehicles and boats fueled up while they continue recovery efforts. Both Chaplain Dickey and Ratcliffe said they're glad the church can help those who need it the most.

"We want to help. We've been there we know what it's like and we're very blessed to be able to help," said Ratcliffe

"We just appreciate what the church has done because the Cajun Coastal Search and Rescue really needs fuel bad," said Dickey. "They're down there in the swamps helping people, trying to get them fuel to run their generator."

Daphne Search and Rescue plans to leave for Baton Rouge early Friday morning.
MISSISSIPPI (WALA)- The demand for justice and answers for three-month-old La'Mello Parker is growing louder four months after his death.

Outside of the Gulfport Police Department, protesters signs read 'La'Mello's life mattered' and 'Release the video '. Fists were raised even higher pleading for answers and accountability.

La'Mello's uncle, Jeremy Parker said, "I just want to know why did they shoot in that car like that. What were they thinking. He couldn't go no where, he was on four flats. They blowed the tires out so I just want to know why y'all shot that car up like that and y'all know the little baby was in there."

After committing a double homicide in Louisiana, police said, Eric Derrell Smith led multiple different law enforcement agencies on a slow speed chase through Mississippi before he opened fire on law enforcement in the I-10 median near the Alabama line.

A source said during the gun battle, Smith used La'Mello as a human shield.

Smith was killed in the exchange of gunfire. La'Mello was hit by a bullet.

A police escort rushed the baby to University Hospital in Mobile, but little La'Mello died the next day.

"We demand the immediate release of all body cam footage, audio, and other reports related to this incident," said one of the protesters.

Jeremy Parker is La'Mello's uncle, the brother of La'Mello's mother, Christin Parker. Police said Smith killed her and her nephew near Baton Rouge.

"All her boyfriends and who she had...always got along with them good. They would want to get to know me and I get to know them. But he wasn't like that. It was something weird about him at first," said Parker.

Parker said he's fighting for justice for La'Mello and his four brothers and sisters who are now without their mother.

Parker said, "I'm just trying to stay strong for them right now and keep my head strong and do the right thing and help them as much as possible."

According to the Harrison County District Attorney's Office the four month investigation is ongoing, including forensic testing of evidence. When complete, the case will be presented to a grand jury.

FOX10 News reached out to find out when that could be, but haven't heard back.
(CNN) -- Law enforcement officials are bracing for potential clashes and unrest during an upcoming right-wing rally in Washington, DC, as violent rhetoric surrounding the September 18 event has increased online and counterprotests are being planned for the same day, according to an internal Capitol Police memo reviewed by CNN.

The latest intelligence report on the "Justice for J6" rally  which aims to support insurrectionists charged in the Capitol riots  notes that online chatter in support of the event started increasing after the officer who fatally shot rioter Ashli Babbitt went public with his identity in a recent interview with NBC's Lester Holt.

There's been a noticeable uptick in violent rhetoric around the event and heated discussions centered on Babbitt's shooting on social media and discussion boards, according to the memo. The document warns that many individuals may also see September 18 as a "Justice for Ashli Babbitt" rally, which could be cause for concern, and it's not unreasonable to plan for violent altercations. There have been additional discussions of violence associated with the event, with one online chat suggesting violence against Jewish centers and liberal churches while law enforcement is distracted that day.

The Capitol Police plan to present their security plans for the rally to the Capitol Police board this week, according to a congressional source, but it's still unclear if that will entail bringing back the temporary fencing around the complex though that has been something under discussion and remains a possibility. The department is also "is working with Capitol region law enforcement partners and other law enforcement agencies," the source said, while the Metropolitan Police Department plans to be fully activated that weekend.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has invited Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy for a security briefing in her office Monday morning with US Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger to discuss security preparations for the rally, according to a source familiar. The top Democrat and Republican lawmakers on the House Administration Committee are also expected to receive separate security briefings in the coming days, another source said.

During her weekly news conference on Wednesday, Pelosi declined to get into specifics on what security measures will be in place that day, but told reporters, "We intend to have the integrity of the Capitol be intact."

With concerns mounting on Capitol Hill about the rally -- and the community already on edge after multiple deadly incidents and bomb scares this year -- former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe has warned that law enforcement needs to take the rally "very seriously."

"I think they should take it very seriously. In fact, they should take it more seriously than they took the same sort of intelligence that they likely saw on January 5," McCabe, a CNN contributor, told CNN's Poppy Harlow on "Erin Burnett OutFront" earlier this week.

Matt Braynard, the lead organizer of the rally, said there would be no violence coming from his group and that the event would be peaceful. Braynard also tweeted on Wednesday that all members of Congress are welcome to speak at the rally.

"This is a completely peaceful protest," he said in a Skype interview with CNN's Jessica Schneider. "And we have told people that when they come, we don't want to see any messaging about the election, we don't want to see any messaging on T-shirts and flags or signs about candidates or anything like that."

Around 500 people have indicated they plan to attend, though the memo notes that past recent events organized by this same group, Look Ahead America, had significantly lower attendance than expected and were peaceful. The rally is also taking place on a Saturday while the US House of Representatives is on recess, and there have been no noticeable increases in hotel reservations for that weekend, according to the memo.

At least one Proud Boy leader has encouraged followers from across the country to show up, though others online have discouraged attendance and warned it might be a false flag operation designed to trap supporters. Meanwhile, "White Lives Matter" is advertising global demonstrations for September 18 and has been supportive of the January 6 insurrectionists online, but it does not have a DC chapter. There's also been multiple instances of white supremacy imagery being used in online chats about the rally, the memo notes.

The event organizer, a former Trump campaign staffer, has not released a speaker lineup. The memo says nine members of Congress have been invited to attend, though all but three of them declined the invite. Those three -- GOP Reps. Matt Gaetz of Florida, Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia and Madison Cawthorn of North Carolina -- hadn't yet said whether they will attend or not. The attorney for Babbitt was also invited to speak.

The US Capitol Police said it cannot discuss security plans or briefings, but said the department is monitoring the rally closely and planning accordingly.

"After January 6, we made Department-wide changes to the way we gather and share intelligence internally and externally," Manger said in a statement. "I am confident the work we are doing now will make sure our officers have what they need to keep everyone safe."

This story has been updated with additional developments Wednesday.

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FILE - In this June 24, 2021, file photo, crowds walk through the casino during the opening night of Resorts World Las Vegas in Las Vegas. Elected officials in tourism-dependent Las Vegas worried Tuesday, July 20, 2021, about public health and the economic effects of a spike in COVID-19 cases, particularly the highly contagious delta variant. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)
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Rampton also said that for her  the temple is a place of peace. I go to a temple for answers to questions, to express gratitude for blessings, to feel relief from sorrow, and to try and catch a glimpse into my relationship with Jesus Christ. It is also a place where I can feel closer to those friends and family members who are living and those who have died. Having a temple closer will be a wonderful opportunity.

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Corvallis Gazette-Times.

Rampton also talked of the temple as a refuge from the harshness of modern life.

Kindness and civility are hallmarks within the walls of any temple, she said. Ive never seen anyone speak harshly toward another in the temple. Our world is full of divisiveness and anger right now. Im thankful for the chance to feel the peace that comes when attending the temple.

The Latter-day Saints church has shown strong growth in Oregon in recent decades. Church figures show an increase of 105,000 church members since 1970 and 40,000 since 1990. Elder Wright said that church growth is important to the decision to build a temple.

The Willamette Valley will serve more than 30,000 church members in the region. Rampton noted than an open house and tours will be held for the public before the temple is dedicated.

After the dedication, Rampton said, the interior will be designated for members who participate in marriage and other faith-based ceremonies, but the outside grounds of the temple will remain open to visitors and those who seek a quiet place for meditation and beauty.

Contact reporter James Day at jim.day@lee.net or 541-812-6116. Follow at Twitter.com/jameshday or gazettetimes.com/blogs/jim-day.

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Over the past century, the process has usually run into stalemate in the legislature, opposition by the governor or court challenges that have led to new maps being drawn by the secretary of state or the courts.

The odds seem particularly long this year because the COVID-19 pandemic delayed U.S. Census data by over four months. An Oregon Supreme Court ruling gave lawmakers until Sept. 27 to get a plan drawn, voted on, approved by Gov. Kate Brown and to the court for review.

If there are no finalized maps, all the legislative maps, charts and hearing testimony are discarded.

On Jan. 28, the court would give Secretary of State Shemia Fagan a shot at drawing legislative districts that could stand up to legal standards. A special five-judge judicial panel would draw the congressional districts.

Legislators had hoped to offset the quick-march of maps through a "road show" of hearings in cities around the state to get feedback on legislative proposals and hear about alternative plans.

A spike in the virus the past two months canceled that plan and led to the online hearings, with all the glitches and logistical problems that come with virtual testimony from distant parts of the state, many with less than ideal internet connections.
Gettysburg, PA (17325)

Today

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Sydney, Sept. 06, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just released, this edition of BuddeComm report outlines the latest developments and key trends in the telecoms markets. - https://www.budde.com.au/Research/United-Kingdom-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses/?utm_source=GNW

9% year-on-year. This was despite gains in subscriber numbers in some of the key growth areas of the market, particularly broadband, as well as increases in voice and data traffic brought about by the long periods of lockdown that were in force throughout the country for much of the year. Those upswings were offset by sharp drops in ARPU resulting from an increased preference for bundling, more competitive pricing, and a reduction in roaming revenue due to Covid-19-related restrictions on overseas travel.



The telco markets gradual downward trend masks what has otherwise been a tumultuous period for UK industry in general. The full impact of the double-whammy that the country experienced with both Covid-19 and Brexit hitting at around the same time is still far from clear. The OECD found that the UK suffered far more than other G7 countries due to the combined effect of these two major events, however early economic indicators into 2021 suggest that the country has the resiliency and ability to fight back thanks, in part, to the relative success of the Covid-19 vaccination program that has allowed much of the UK population to return to work sooner than its neighbours.



The government is committed to maintaining a strong and competitive telecommunications environment. In policy and in pounds, the industry is receiving a high level of government support for rolling out broadband throughout the country. There is a particularly strong push to extend coverage into more rural and remote areas, with a national Full Fibre broadband access target in 2033. One of the additional downsides to the UKs withdrawal from the EU, however, is that the country no longer has access to the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), which previously provided much of the cash for the development of broadband. The UK government must instead fund its fibre-broadband initiatives using internal resources.



Key Developments:

International roaming charges to be reintroduced for travel to Europe.

By the end of 2020, 38% of UK homes were able to get gigabit-capable broadband. Ultrafast coverage (greater than 300Mb/s) reached 61% of premises.

Openreach will stop selling copper-based products to fibre-connected premises from September 2021.

Eutelsat launched a UK-wide satellite broadband service in December 2020 via its Konnect satellite, offering data rates up to 100Mb/s.

The government acquired a 45% stake in OneWeb, following the UKs exit from the EU and the country no longer being part of Europes Galileo satellite positioning system.

OneWeb launched its first set of satellites in December 2020, aiming for services to be made available across the country by the end of 2021.

Liberty Globals Virgin Media and Telefonicas O2 were merged in a JV to form Virgin Media O2, in the process creating a major competitor to BT.

Blocks of spectrum in the 700MHz and 3.6GHz bands were auctioned in March 2021, strengthening 5G deployment.

This report includes the regulators market data reports to Q1 2021, telcos financial and operating data updates to June 2021, Telecom Maturity Index charts and analyses, assessment of the global impact of Covid-19 on the telecoms sector, and other recent market developments.



Companies mentioned in this report:

British Telecom (BT), KCom, Virgin Media O2 (VMed O2), Hutchison Three (H3), EE, Vodafone, Liberty Global, Telefonica, Ericsson, Virgin Mobile, Openreach, Eutelsat, Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC), COLT, Dixons Carphone Group/Carphone Warehouse, TalkTalk, Sky, OneWeb.



Read the full report: https://www.budde.com.au/Research/United-Kingdom-Telecoms-Mobile-and-Broadband-Statistics-and-Analyses/?utm_source=GNW
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 07, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- StarNews Mobile , a Santa Monica based mobile video platform allowing celebrities and brands to monetize their fan bases in Africa, welcomes Zare Baghdasarian to lead in its mission to be a leading digital media platform for mobile-only markets and to revolutionize digital content distribution and monetization worldwide.



Baghdasarian, an award-winning global technology leader and serial entrepreneur, says he believes the sky is the limit for StarNews as it is quickly growing to reach a global audience. With more than 10 million subscribers, StarNews is bringing amazing content from African creators to the world stage while opening up opportunities for global content producers to monetize their content in Africa.

Baghdasarian was first drawn to StarNews by the unique challenge of building the technical and operational foundation of a highly disruptive media platform. But after a few months, he quickly grew to become a fan of the team, as well. He says there are not many tech startups like StarNews with a team that is both culturally and professionally diverse yet working so well together.



As an entrepreneur, youre always looking for the next frontier. Where is the next growth coming? Where are the challenges? Africa presents very unique opportunities from many angles, said Baghdasarian, in his usual inquisitive fashion.

An avid traveler who has been around the world, he likens Africa to the explosive growth India and Chinas media tech industries experienced ten years ago, and he sees StarNews at the forefront. The media company has been able to create and commercialize a truly innovative model in subscription-based content consumption that Baghdasarian believes other countries and emerging markets will adopt worldwide.

In a start-up life, truly defining moments are rare, and having Zare on board is definitely one of them, said Guy Kamgaing , StarNews CEO. In just a few months, his presence has had a tremendous impact on the business which is now getting ready for massive growth. Zare not only brings the experience in tech and operations that we desperately needed to scale the company, he is a true visionary with amazing leadership qualities and incredible people skills.

We are lucky to have him, added Kamgaing. He is one of very few successful founders who have actually been there, done that when it comes to building massive technology. His decision to join us on this journey is a testament to his entrepreneurial flair but also a huge validation to the unique potential of this venture.

Baghdasarian has built several technology startups from scratch, has enjoyed many exits in the process (notably an acquisition by Cisco for $550M), and has worked with private equity and venture capital firms as well as universities. But his passion lies in building tech companies. While developing products and solutions for medium and large enterprises, he has acquired a deep knowledge of all areas of tech, including AI technology and data science. He plans to add these technologies to the StarNews platform to help it scale faster and more effectively.

In addition, Baghdasarian holds the TRIUM Global EMBA from the LSE, London, HEC Paris, and NYU and an MS in Engineering Management from Santa Clara University, a BS in Electrical Engineering from Villanova University, and Executive Management training from the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

Read StarNews Mobiles in-depth profile on Zare Baghdasarian here: https://www.starnewsmobile .com/meet-the-team/

About StarNews Mobile

Launched in 2017, StarNews Mobile gives opportunities for all content creators in Africa and elsewhere to reach large local audiences and create a sustainable new income source from their work and talent. The company is already a leader in Africas mobile video market which holds massive potential to reach its 600M and growing user base of underserved fans and undiscovered talent. The StarNews Mobile network provides a springboard and a spotlight for new and emerging content creators from Africa and around the world.

StarNews Mobile is currently available in the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Congo and South Africa, Nigeria, and will be soon launching in Ghana, Benin, Senegal and Mali, mainly thanks to partnerships with large pan-African mobile operators MTN, Orange, and Moov.
MELBOURNE, Australia and KYOTO, Japan, Sept. 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited (ASX: TLX, Telix, the Company) today announces that the last patient has been imaged in a Phase I clinical study of Telixs investigational prostate cancer imaging product TLX591-CDx (Illuccix, Kit for the preparation of 68Ga-PSMA-11 injection) in collaboration with Kanazawa University.



This study, which reached target enrolment of ten patients, is the first clinical evaluation of a Gallium-68-labeled prostate cancer diagnostic imaging agent in Japan. The objective is to obtain safety data in a representative Japanese patient population and to confirm that the targeting and biodistribution of TLX591-CDx in Japanese patients are consistent with international experience. Subject to positive outcomes, clinical data obtained from this study will facilitate development planning with Japans Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) and potentially other Asian regulators.

Professor Atsushi Mizokami from the Department of Integrative Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University, Graduate School of Medical Science said, I am pleased that we have successfully completed enrolment of the first Japanese clinical study of 68Ga-PSMA-11 for men with advanced prostate cancer, despite severe ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This state-of-the-art PET imaging agent is currently under regulatory review in 17 countries worldwide and we are excited to play our role in bringing this important new diagnostic tool to market in Japan as efficiently as possible.

Shintaro Nishimura, President of Telix Pharmaceuticals Japan, added, We are grateful to Professor Mizokami and his colleagues for their efforts in recruiting this trial in a timely fashion, as well as study participants for their commitment to delivering innovative benefits to Japanese men living with prostate cancer. I believe that this will become a cornerstone moment for future prostate cancer theranostics in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region and provides a pathway for Telix to engage with regulators for approval of our lead product, in Japan.

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 Media Contact

Dr. Stewart Holmstrom

Telix Pharmaceuticals Limited

Director Corporate Communications

Email: stewart.holmstrom@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.
German-based Gaskatel is a leading provider of testing, measurement and analytics for electrochemistry projects that embody physics, chemistry and process engineering

AFCP and Gaskatels collaboration will also ensure processes have high integrity and optimal performance

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alkaline Fuel Cell Power Corp. (NEO: PWWR) (Frankfurt: 77R, WKN: A3CTYF) ("AFCP" or the "Company"), an organization commercializing next-generation alkaline fuel cell heat and power systems for residential, industrial and commercial markets worldwide, is pleased to announce the signing of a Letter of Understanding (LOU) with Gaskatel GmbH (Gaskatel), one of the worlds leading authorities on electrode research and development, to undertake third party, go-forward testing of AFCPs hydrogen-powered alkaline fuel cell product.

Founded in 1997, Gaskatels team of physicists, chemists, engineers and lab staff are focused on the development, manufacture and sale of different types of electrodes and censors, including hydrogen reference electrodes and hydrogen pH electrodes. By undertaking precision analytical measurements, Gaskatel strives to identify and map out a full-cycle solution to address its clients challenges. Gaskatel offers expertise in, and accessibility to, electrochemical test equipment, gas diffusion electrodes, fuel cells, and electrolysers.

Securing this collaboration with Gaskatel is a critical milestone on the path to commercialization of our next-generation alkaline fuel cell system, designed to generate clean electrical power and heat with zero CO 2 emissions and pure water as the only by-product, said Jef Spaepen, CEO of AFCP. In addition, management of AFCP brings prior success commercializing earlier-staged versions of this technology, supporting our ability to efficiently advance development of this important and cost-effective clean energy solution.

While management of AFCP has previously commercialized and deployed similar iterations of its signature Alkaline Power System, the Companys advanced third generation system, for residential and small to medium-sized power markets, including modular combination units utilized for maritime power storage and generation, the Gaskatel collaboration will focus on positive enhancements to its next-generation technology, including optimization of the units size, maintaining relatively silent operation and overall high efficiency.

AFCP will leverage the expertise and many years of experience provided by Gaskatels global leadership in this area as the companies jointly undertake durability and benchmark testing of the product in order to improve on existing patented technologies and systems. By working alongside Gaskatels technical team, AFCPs skilled technical staff will incorporate novel approaches to optimize performance. Through smart design and planning in collaboration with Gaskatel, AFCP expects to combine its own highly efficient and effective manufacturing protocols with those of Gaskatel. Through this collaboration, AFCP is setting the stage to achieve cost-effective, high-volume production of its innovative alkaline fuel cell system.

About Alkaline Fuel Cell Power Corp.

The Company is focused on the development and production of micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) systems based on alkaline fuel cell technology. A fuel cell is a clean electrical power conversion/generation system, akin to small power stations that provide electricity and an equivalent amount of heat for various purposes. Based on hydrogen powered alkaline fuel cell technology, our technology offers an energy source that generates zero CO 2 emissions with pure water as the only by-product, making it ideally suited for residential and small- to medium-sized power markets. We believe Fuel Cell Power is well positioned to become a positive contributor to the global demand for clean energy, particularly in Europe where demand outpaces supply, and current technology remains inadequate to meet market needs. Further information is available on our website at https://www.fuelcellpower.com/ and on our SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. We encourage investors and other interested stakeholders to follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Our common shares are listed for trading on the NEO Exchange (NEO) under the symbol PWWR and on the Frankfurt Exchange under symbol 77R and WKN A3CTYF.

For further information, please contact:

Gerard Sauer

Chairman of the Advisory Board

+3214574648

info@fuelcellpower.com Cindy Gray

Investor Relations

+1 (403) 705-5076

info@5qir.com Eugene Beukman

Director

+1 (604) 687-2038

info@fuelcellpower.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forwardlooking statements and forwardlooking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events or future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forwardlooking statements or information. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as plans, expects or does not expect, is expected, estimates, forecasts, intends, anticipates, believes or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, would, might, occur or achieve. Forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Companys technology, intellectual property, business plan, objectives and strategy.

Forward-looking statements and information are provided for the purpose of providing information about the current expectations and plans of management of the Company relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such statements and information may not be appropriate for other purposes, such as making investment decisions. Since forwardlooking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forwardlooking statements and information contained in this news release. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. The forwardlooking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and no undertaking is given to update publicly or revise any forwardlooking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

NEITHER THE NEO EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE NEO EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
TORONTO, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aberdeen International Inc. (Aberdeen or the Company) (TSX: AAB) (F: A8H) (OTC: AABVF) is pleased to announce that the team at AES-100 Inc. (AES-100), a 41.67% subsidiary of the Company, have now demonstrated results in the new and critical area of hydrogen recovery from natural gas pipelines for the Advanced Electrolyzer System (AES). AES was developed by Pinakin Patel and his team, who have been recipients of significant Federal grant awards for their innovative hydrogen research and development activities.



Across the United States and Europe, the ability to store, transport and extract hydrogen from existing natural gas pipeline infrastructure would mean substantial progress towards the hydrogen supply availability needed for clean and green electric vehicles at a fraction of the potential capital expenditure. AES-100s technology provides a modular, scalable, low-cost solution to extract hydrogen safely and efficiently leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure.

The AES-100 team notes that bench testing over a period of 5,000 hours has shown that the efficient extraction of hydrogen stored in natural gas pipelines is technically viable with AES' systems. AES-100 is now scaling up testing to demonstrate performance expectations similar to pipeline applications globally.

AES is one of the first cost-effective solutions to recover hydrogen for commercial usage, as currently a great deal of hydrogen is being wasted as a dilute contaminant rather than an extremely value energy source. This is a critical part of the solution to many major problems facing governments, municipalities and various industries. In many jurisdictions globally, solar and wind power generation during peak periods can lead to excess electricity requiring a curtailment of production, which is an inefficient and expensive means of managing grid supply and demand balance. The State of California is an example jurisdiction that is actively looking for ways to manage excess energy through various means of storage.

Recovering hydrogen for reuse is a potentially multi-billion dollar market, said Mr. Patel. AES solution focuses on the low hanging fruit, as the AES technology can help enable the storage and extraction of excess energy for use during non-peak periods.

The value proposition offered by the AES technology is its ability to extract hydrogen at the point of use, thus eliminating the hydrogen transportation costs and associated safety issues. The technology provides a means of economic hydrogen extraction (and the associated green energy that would have otherwise been curtailed) for higher value use in any number of markets and industries where natural gas pipelines exist.

ABOUT ABERDEEN INTERNATIONAL INC.

Aberdeen International is a global resource investment company and merchant bank focused on small capitalization companies in the rare metals and renewable energy sectors. AES-100, an Aberdeen portfolio investment, owns the exclusive rights and all intellectual property pertaining to the AES technology for the production of hydrogen from dilute syngas.

For additional information, please visit our website at www.aberdeen.green

For further information, please contact:

Chris Younger

Chief Executive Officer

Aberdeen International Inc.

Chris.Younger@Aberdeen.green

(416) 861-1685

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, statements regarding AES-100 and the AES technology; the renewable energies sector; investment portfolio of the Company and the Companys future plans. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including risks inherent in the mining industry, the adoption of green energy policies, the rollout of hydrogen infrastructure, the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the AES technology and risks described in the public disclosure of the Company which is available under the profile of the Company on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website at www.aberdeen.green/. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.




TORONTO, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Honey Badger Silver Inc. (TSX-V: TUF) (Honey Badger or the Company) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Edmond Thorose, MBA, B.Sc (Hons) to the position of President of the Company, effective immediately.



Since 2010, Mr. Thorose has been engaged in a corporate development role, first with Victoria Gold Corp, where he was responsible for evaluating M&A opportunities in the Americas, performing detailed due diligence on dozens of precious metals projects and from 2015 to 2019 at Red Cloud Klondike Strike Inc., as VP Corporate Development to identify and assess M&A opportunities for clients.

In his most recent role as Advisor to Blue Thunder Mining Inc., Mr. Thorose played an important role consolidating that companys strategic property portfolio in the Chibougamau Gold District of Quebec, Canada, via numerous transactions. Mr. Thorose holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in Terrain and Environmental Earth Sciences from the University of Toronto and an MBA from the Schulich School of Business.

Chad Williams, Executive Chairman of Honey Badger commented, I take considerable pride in appointing Ed to this leadership position. His experience sourcing and evaluating assets and executing transactions will be of great benefit to our Company as we expand our silver inventory.

For more information, please visit our website above, or contact: Ms. Christina Slater at cslater@honeybadgersilver.com.

About Honey Badger Silver Inc.

Honey Badger Silver is a Canadian Silver company based in Toronto, Ontario focused on the acquisition, development, and integration of accretive transactions of silver ounces. The company is led by a highly experienced leadership team with a track record of value creation backed by a skilled technical team. With a dominant land position in Ontarios historic Thunder Bay Silver District and advanced projects in the southeast and south-central Yukon, Honey Badger Silver is positioning to be a top tier silver company.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation that is based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. The information in this news release and any other information herein that is not a historical fact may be "forward-looking information".

This forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such assumptions and estimates were made, and involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Honey Badger Silver to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, but are not limited to, volatility in the trading price of common shares of the Company; risks relating to the ability of the Company to obtain required approvals, complete definitive documentation; ability of the Company to complete further exploration activities; the results of exploration activities; capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates; delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; changes in equity markets; inflation; fluctuations in commodity prices; delays in the development of projects; other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry; and those risks set out in the Company's public documents filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) under Honey Badger Silver's issuer profile.

Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Macarthur Minerals Limited (TSX-V: MMS) (ASX: MIO) (OTCQB: MMSDF) (the Company or Macarthur) is pleased to announce that the Companys Pilbara iron ore tenements, (currently held by wholly-owned subsidiary Infinity Mining Limited (Infinity), previously named Macarthur Lithium Pty Ltd), will remain in the Macarthur Group. An intra-group tenement transfer agreement to be finalised prior to the planned listing of Infinity later this year will preserve Macarthurs ability to pursue a future iron ore extension strategy in the Pilbara.



Highlights Tenement transfer agreement to keep Pilbara iron ore tenements within Macarthur Group.





Infinity to retain non-iron ore rights in Pilbara tenements following completion of its planned ASX listing later this year.





Transfer will allow all prospective tenements in the Pilbara to be appropriately resourced and drive value through exploration, back to shareholders.





Transfer preserves a future Pilbara iron ore extension strategy for Macarthur, with potential to grow future value beyond on the Companys flagship Lake Giles Iron Project.





Macarthur will seek to transact with a partner on the Pilbara tenements to enable it to maintain its current focus and resources on the development of its flagship Lake Giles hematite and magnetite projects.

Tenement Transfer Agreement

A tenement transfer agreement (Agreement), to be finalised prior to the planned Infinity ASX listing, will see the Companys Strelley Gorge and Tambourah tenements in the Pilbara transferred into Macarthurs wholly owned subsidiary, Macarthur Iron Ore Pty Ltd. The Agreement will enable the Company to pursue a future iron ore extension strategy in the Pilbara.

Whilst Macarthur Iron Ore Pty Ltd will become the registered holder of the tenements, as the Pilbara tenements are also prospective for copper, gold, nickel and lithium, following completion of the transfer, Infinity will retain all non-iron ore mineral rights in the tenements.

Background to Pilbara Iron Ore Tenements

The tenements that will be transferred under the Agreement are the Strelley Gorge (E45/4735) and Tambourah (E45/5324) tenements in the Pilbara region of Western Australia, covering a combined area of approximately 616km2. The Strelley Gorge tenement is prospective for DSO iron ore and is located immediately adjacent to the Abydos iron ore project that has been mined by Atlas Iron Limited (Atlas Iron). The Tambourah tenement is also prospective for iron ore, with a 5km strike length of the Pincunah banded iron member, that hosts Atlas Irons Mt Webber mine approximately 10km to the north-east.

Macarthur considers both tenements prospective for iron ore and is seeking interested parties to further explore these assets.

Overview of Strelley Gorge (E45/4735)

The Strelley Gorge tenement lies within the Lalla Rookh syncline composed of mainly Euro Basalt (A-KEe-b) metamorphosed basalt, komatiitic basalt and serpentinized peridotite. The tenement also contains two banded iron units prospective for DSO iron ore - the Paddy Market Formation on the eastern side and the Cleaverville formation on the west (see Figure 1 below). The latter hosts past iron ore mining operations of the Abydos project owned by Atlas Iron on the western edge of the tenement (see Figure 2 below).

Atlas Iron has also obtained EPA approval to commence the Sandtrax iron ore mine located in the BIF unit towards the north-eastern boundary (see Figure 2 below).

Figure 1 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a649218b-eda4-4bbd-a360-c39afd1b4eeb

Figure 2 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/238bf066-3e71-46bc-aa98-c2a2eb4e47e9

Reconnaissance rock sampling completed by Fe Limited (ASX:FEL) on the outcropping BIF along strike from the previously mined Atlas Abydos project returned high iron grades (61.3% and 58.11% Fe). The results, summarised in Table 1 below, were previously reported by FE Limited to the market in an ASX announcement dated 5 September 2019 (see announcement here).

Table 1 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e028a69c-6913-4f96-b5af-2f8d6e7632a6

Overview of Tambourah (E45/5324)

The Tambourah tenement lies within the Shaw Batholith comprised of the Callina Supersuite (A-CL-mg) - metadiorite to metasyenogranite; massive to gneissic rocks and the Tambina Supersuite (A-TA-mg) - metatonalite and metagranodiorite (see Figure 3 below).

The tenement also encompasses approximately 5.5km strike length of the Pincunah Banded Iron member. The Pincunah BIF hosts the iron ore deposits previously mined as part of Atlas Irons Mt Webber project 10km to the north east.

Figure 3 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/88d33677-3ca7-44df-b37c-daf9ac257525

Historical reporting by Atlas Iron Ltd in 2012 (see Tables 2 and 3) highlighted the iron potential of the Pincunah Banded Iron formation within the tenement. Their drilling of the MW08 Prospect (reported in an annual report to the Department of Mines and Petroleum prepared on behalf of Atlas Iron Ltd, and accessible on Wamex (Report Number A095162. Report titled: Mt Webber Project Annual Technical Report, dated 28 September 2012)) returned significant iron results over the 400 metres of strike that was tested with RC drilling. That drilling recorded significant intercepts in fourteen (14) of the twentysix (26) drillholes drilled on the MW08 prospect predominantly within goethite and goethitic haematite (see Figures 4 and 5).

Table 2 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/15f986f0-072b-42f1-8b8e-028d691c1781

Table 3 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1673f8ce-b962-46dc-8559-68ecc2d3ad26

Figure 4 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e424ec42-d0ea-4e40-b7e5-97d07a990cb1

Figure 5 accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ae2eea92-c6ac-4826-b944-790f7280966c

Joe Phillips, Managing Director of Macarthur Minerals commented:

It is beneficial to Macarthur shareholders for the Company to separate the Pilbara iron ore assets from the non-iron ore assets prior to the proposed ASX listing of Infinity Mining Limited, as currently Macarthur is being valued solely on the Lake Giles iron ore assets.

This transfer will allow all prospective tenements in the Pilbara to be appropriately resourced and drive value through exploration, back to shareholders. Macarthur will be looking to transact with a third party on the Strelley Gorge and Tambourah tenements so as not to distract resources away from the development of the Lake Giles hematite and magnetite projects.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Mr Cameron McCall, Chairman

For more information please contact: Joe Phillips

Managing Director

+61 7 3221 1796

communications@macarthurminerals.com Investor Relations  Australia

Advisir

Alex Bunney, Manager Client Services

alex.bunney@advisir.com.au Investor Relations - Canada

Investor Cubed

Neil Simon, CEO

+1 647 258 3310

info@investor3.ca

Qualified persons

Mr Ian S Cooper, B.Sc., A.R.S.M., F.G.S. FAusIMM, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (membership number 107348), is a consultant of Macarthur and is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101. Mr Cooper is a consultant to the Company and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

Company profile

Macarthur is an iron ore development, gold and lithium exploration company that is focused on bringing to production its Western Australia iron ore projects. The Lake Giles Iron Project mineral resources include the Ularring hematite resource (approved for development) comprising Indicated resources of 54.5 million tonnes at 47.2% Fe and Inferred resources of 26 million tonnes at 45.4% Fe; and the Lake Giles magnetite resource of 53.9 million tonnes (Measured), 218.7 million tonnes (Indicated) and 997 million tonnes (Inferred). The JORC reporting tables and Competent Person statement for the magnetite and hematite mineral resources have previously been disclosed in ASX market announcements dated 12 August 2020 and 5 December 2019. Macarthur has prominent (~721 square kilometre tenement area) gold, lithium and copper exploration interests in Pilbara region of Western Australia. In addition, Macarthur has lithium brine Claims in the emerging Railroad Valley region in Nevada, USA.

This news release is not for distribution to United States services or for dissemination in the United States

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements (collectively, forward-looking statements) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements herein, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including but not limited to statements regarding expected completion of the Feasibility Study; conversion of Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves or the eventual mining of the Project, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current expectations, assumptions or beliefs of the Company based upon information currently available to the Company. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct as actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include but are not limited to: unforeseen technology changes that results in a reduction in iron or magnetite demand or substitution by other metals or materials; the discovery of new large low cost deposits of iron magnetite; the general level of global economic activity; failure to complete the FS; inability to demonstrate economic viability of Mineral Resources; and failure to obtain mining approvals. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Such statements relate to future events and expectations and, as such, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and except as may otherwise be required pursuant to applicable laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SEATTLE, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Coherent Market Insights, the global cannabidiol market is estimated to be valued at US$ 3665.5 Million in 2021 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 47.3% over the forecast period (2021-2028).

Key Trends and Analysis of the Global Cannabidiol Market:

The key players operating in the market are focusing on increasing legalization and approvals of cannabidiol to use in several products that increases potential opportunities for several manufacturers to operate in the market.

For instance, in 2019, Thailand became the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize cannabis for medical and research purposes. It also legalizes the use of hemp in the production of textiles, clothing, and other products.

Furthermore, key players operating in the global cannabidiol market are focusing on adoption of inorganic growth strategies such as collaboration and acquisition to increase their market presence in the global market.

For instance, in August 2019, Exactus, Inc. acquired Green Goddess Extracts, based in Florida, USA, dedicated to the manufacture and distribution of hemp products. The acquisition will help expand Exactus, Inc.'s manufacturing capabilities and complement the existing product portfolio while enhancing distribution capabilities.

Request for Sample copy of this Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/4613

Key Market Takeaways:

The global cannabidiol market is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 47.3% during the forecast period, owing to increasing launches of new products and regulatory approvals for cannabidiol and its derivatives, which is expected to propel the growth of the global cannabidiol market over the forecast period. For instance, in 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex, a cannabidiol drug in the U.S., for the treatment of epilepsy disorders.

Among regions, North America is expected to dominate the cannabidiol market over the forecast period. Favorable regulations, increasing awareness about CBD oil, growing consumer preference, and a rise in the number of manufacturers are factors expected to fuel market growth in the region. In recent years, countries such as the United States and Canada have begun to relax laws on CBD products, which has led to increased acceptance and increased sales. For instance, California is the main market for CBD (cannabidiol) in the United States in 2019, with estimated sales of 730 million U.S. dollars. The top three are Florida and New York, with sales of approximately 290 million and 215 million, respectively.

Competitive Landscape:

Key players operating in the global cannabidiol market include Canopy Growth Corporation, Aphria, Inc., Aurora Cannabis, Maricann, Inc. (Wayland Group Corporation), Tilray, GW Pharmaceuticals, plc, ABcann Medicinals, Inc., Organigram Holding, Inc., Tikun Olam, The Cronos Group, ENDOCA, Isodiol International, Inc., MEDICAL MARIJUANA, INC., Cannoid, LLC, Elixinol, Folium Biosciences, NuLeaf Naturals, LLC, and Pharmahemp d.o.o.

Buy-Now this Research Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/4613

Market Segmentation:

Global Cannabidiol Market, By Product: Oil Tinctures Suppository Transdermal Patches Vape Oil Isolates Creams and Roll-on Capsules Tablet Others

Global Cannabidiol Market, By Source Type: Hemp Marijuana

Global Cannabidiol Market, By Application: Medical Chronic Pain Mental Disorders Cancer Others Personal Use Pharmaceuticals Wellness Food & Beverages Personal Care & Cosmetics Nutraceuticals Others

Global Cannabidiol Market, By Distribution Channel: Hospital Pharmacies Online Stores Retail Stores

Global Cannabidiol Market, By Region: North America By Country U.S. Canada Latin America By Country Brazil Mexico Argentina Rest of Latin America Europe By Country Germany U.K. France Italy Spain Russia Rest of Europe Asia Pacific By Country China India Japan Australia South Korea ASEAN Rest of Asia Pacific Middle East By Country GCC Israel Rest of Middle East Africa By Country South Africa Central Africa North Africa



Related Market Intelligence Reports:

Cannabis Cultivation Market , by Type (Cannabis Indica and Cannabis Sativa), by Source (Flower/Buds, Leaves, and Others), by Application (Medical Consumption, Recreational Consumption, and Industrial Consumption), and by Region (North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa) - Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis, 2020  2027

Medicinal Cannabis Market , by Point of Sale (Dispensaries, Online Pharmacy, Hospital Pharmacy), by Active Ingredient (Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD)) and by Therapeutic Application (Pain, Arthritis, Neurological Disease (Epilepsy, Multiple Sclerosis and Other Neurological Applications), and Other Applications) - Size, Share, Outlook, and Opportunity Analysis 2019 - 2027

About Us:

Coherent Market Insights is a global market intelligence and consulting organization focused on assisting our plethora of clients achieve transformational growth by helping them make critical business decisions. We are headquartered in India, having sales office at global financial capital in the U.S. and sales consultants in United Kingdom and Japan. Our client base includes players from across various business verticals in over 57 countries worldwide.
MIAMI, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Black Men Talk Tech (BMTT), a collective and conference series that supports emerging and elite Black tech entrepreneurs, officially announces this year's 3rd Annual Unicorn Ambition Conference. Black Men Talk Tech Unicorn Ambition Conference is the only national conference that focuses on providing support for the Black male tech founder.

The Unicorn Ambition Conference is a national tech conference providing exposure and resources to Black tech founders who are building innovative companies and focused on massive growth, or becoming the next "unicorn." Since its inception, the conference has highlighted Miami and South Florida as an emerging tech hub, especially for the Black community. This year's 3rd annual conference will be a hybrid event on Oct. 21 over the Hop.in virtual platform, with supporting in-person events in Miami before and after the conference programming. "Miami has seen a recent boom in its tech scene. It's great to see a larger audience seeing the potential of the city that we've known for quite some time," says Evan Leaphart, one of the co-founders of BMTT.

"Our previous conferences have brought together some of the best practitioners and entrepreneurs in the business," says Abiodun Johnson, one of the co-founders of BMTT.

Black Men Talk Tech's conference experience provides thought-provoking panels, workshops, a startup pitch competition with sizable prize packages, and networking. Attendees leave with new relationships that they can turn to for advice, camaraderie, partnerships, and investments. The Black Men Talk Tech Unicorn Ambition Conference experience will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and practitioners to share actionable, relevant, and timely insights to help grow your business.

"The entrepreneurial journey tends to be a lonely experience, especially during the most formative and early days of a startup," adds Boris Moyston, fellow co-founder of Black Men Talk Tech. "Our organization provides founders with community, which is a huge value for Black tech founders who sometimes struggle to find like-minded people to bounce ideas off of or to ideate with. In our community, founders find a place to strive together."

Additional speakers at this year's Unicorn Ambition Conference include Nasir Qadree, Founder & Managing Partner at Zeal Capital Partners; George Azih, Founder & CEO of LeaseQuery; Gregory Coleman, Co-Founder & CEO of Sworkit; Lister Delgado, Managing Partner at IDEA Fund Partners; and additional speakers to be added.

REGISTER FOR TICKETS HERE: https://bit.ly/3sUUC4n

This year's Unicorn Ambition Conference is sponsored by Craig Newmark Philanthropies, Knight Foundation, MorganStanley, Pitchbook, Bubble, The Steve & Marjorie Harvey Foundation (SMHF), and Intuit.

About Black Men Talk Tech:

Black Men Talk Tech is a tech collective and conference series that supports emerging and elite Black tech entrepreneurs. Despite the many successes of Black men in the tech industry, Black men are still underrepresented as founders. Black Men Talk Tech is fixing that problem by creating an authentic ecosystem for Black men who are scaling their startups to Unicorn status.

Media Contact:

Tiffany Woo

Tiffany@presspassla.com

(310) 817-0230

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NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Uptime.com  which provides web monitoring peace of mind to thousands of customers like Apple, Microsoft, IBM, Palo Alto Networks, Kraft and BNP Paribas  was named one of the world's best website uptime and performance monitoring solutions in G2.com Inc.'s latest Fall 2021 Grid and Index Reports.

This announcement marks the 11th consecutive quarter in which Uptime.com has earned High Performer status as one of the top-rated solutions on G2's Website Monitoring and IT Alerting Grids. Uptime.com was also named the No. 1 Momentum Leader on G2's Momentum Grid, which highlights the fastest growing IT alerting software. In all, Uptime.com received seven badges for its performance across 16 Fall 2021 G2 reports and indexes.

"Downtime is hard enough; that's why our mission is to be the web monitoring tool that businesses can trust with their site uptime and performance," said Yoni Solomon, Chief Marketing Officer at Uptime.com. "We're honored and determined to continue providing the product reliability, accuracy, usability and 100% human support customers deserve from their website uptime monitoring partner."

G2's rankings and ratings are based on verified B2B software reviews from real users and customers. This news comes on the heels of Uptime.com's recently announced product, growth and organizational milestones achieved in the first half of 2021. The company has doubled headcount, hired Mike Welsh as CEO and Yoni Solomon as CMO , and is on pace to achieve between 50% and 100% year-over-year revenue growth by the end of the year.

About Uptime.com

Uptime.com provides peace of mind to thousands of customers like Apple, Microsoft, IBM, Palo Alto Networks, Kraft and BNP Paribas, who trust us to monitor the performance, health, and downtime of their websites, applications, and infrastructure.

We've been recognized as one of the world's best web monitoring solutions by G2 and TechRadar Pro for several consecutive years, including this one. Start monitoring in minutes with our 21-day free trial at www.uptime.com .

Contact

Mike Albanese - mike.albanese@newswire.com

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English Danish

rsted, the worlds most sustainable energy company, and T&T Group, a leading Vietnamese cross-industry company with 80,000 employees, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to launch a strategic collaboration on offshore wind in Vietnam. The signing took place in connection with the Vietnamese high-level visit to Brussels, led by the President of Vietnams National Assembly, His Excellency Vuong Dinh Hue.

The collaboration between rsted and T&T brings together a multi-GW pipeline of greenfield offshore wind projects located off the coasts of the Binh Thuan and Ninh Thuan provinces, Vietnams most suitable areas for offshore wind development. Both partners will apply their groups joint capabilities to mature this offshore wind pipeline and work to support the development of an effective regulatory framework for offshore wind and a vibrant new industry in Vietnam.

With more than 3,200 km of coastline and high consistent wind speeds, Vietnam has some of the best conditions for developing offshore wind in Asia. The World Bank Group estimates Vietnams offshore wind potential to be up to 500 GW. In addition to this world-class potential, Vietnams rapidly growing demand for power means there is an urgent need for new large-scale reliable power sources in the coming decades. These factors, in combination with Vietnams strong supply chain potential, have convinced rsted and T&T Group that offshore wind has a central role to play in Vietnams future power mix.

Do Quang Hien, T&T Group President and General Director, says: Ten years ago, we began researching and preparing for the development of renewable energy in order to be ready when the time was right. This has resulted in T&T completing several large solar PV projects and being on track to complete five big onshore wind projects by the end of this year. Energy is a strategic focus for the T&T Group, and with this collaboration with rsted, the global leader in offshore wind, we look forward to accelerating our plans and bringing valuable experience and international investment capital to the offshore wind sector in Vietnam.

Martin Neubert, Chief Commercial Officer and Deputy-CEO at rsted, says: As the global offshore wind leader, rsted targets 30 GW of offshore wind by 2030. To support this ambitious build-out, we need to work closely with partners such as T&T, who has an impressive track record of developing large energy projects in Vietnam, and who bring a deep understanding of the market. Our mission is to create a world that runs entirely on green energy, and to do this, we need strong support, so its a great pleasure to see an industry leader like T&T join hands with us in creating a more sustainable future in Vietnam.

Matthias Bausenwein, President of rsted Asia Pacific, says: This MOU is a major step for rsted in establishing a strong foothold in Vietnam and in showcasing our aspiration to be a reliable long-term partner in this country. Together with T&T, were excited to use our multi-GW pipeline to build a vibrant local offshore wind industry and to make Vietnam one of the leading offshore wind markets in Asia Pacific. We believe that offshore wind is one of the best ways for Vietnam to meet its rapidly growing power demand as this is a utility-scale, reliable, and domestic power source which, if deployed at large scale and with the right framework, can be competitive with coal and gas-fired power stations.

For further information, please reach out to:

rsted APAC Media Relations

Fiona Huang

fiohu@orsted.com

rsted Media Relations

Michael Korsgaard

+45 99 55 94 25

mikon@orsted.com

Investor Relations

Allan Bdskov Andersen

+ 45 99 55 79 96

ir@orsted.dk

About rsted

The rsted vision is a world that runs entirely on green energy. rsted develops, constructs, and operates offshore and onshore wind farms, solar farms, energy storage facilities, and bioenergy plants, and provides energy products to its customers. Headquartered in Denmark and majority owned by the Danish state, rsted is the global leader in offshore wind with more than 6,000 full time employees. rsted has developed and constructed 27 offshore wind farms with a gross installed capacity of over 7.6 GW and has a further 2.3 GW currently under construction. Our target by 2030 is 30 GW of offshore wind.

About T&T Group

Founded in 1993, T&T Group is today one of Vietnams leading industrial conglomerates with activities within the transport, infrastructure, seaport, mining, energy, logistics, agricultural, and environmental industries to name but a few examples. Within renewable energy, the T&T Group is on track to have commissioned close to 800 MW of solar PV and onshore wind projects by the end of 2021. In the next 10 years, T&T Group plans to develop energy projects across LNG and renewable energy with an estimated total capacity of 10 GW  11 GW, accounting for around 8% of Vietnams total installed capacity.

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Sunnyvale, CA, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Turntide Technologies, (Turntide), developer of electrification and sustainable operations technologies, today announced the roll-out of its new Turntide for Buildings, a full-stack intelligent building solution. Turntide combines its Smart Motor SystemTM with automation software, connected edge equipment, and cloud insights to improve energy efficiency and streamline building operations while reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

The operation of commercial and industrial buildings accounts for 40 percent of electricity consumed globally and 20 percent of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Even with the commitment of 200 countries to cut GHG by more than 50 percent by 2050, in the U.S. only 45% of companies are on track to reach net-zero emissions by that deadline.

In the built environment, any business that does not upgrade its sustainability strategy is not only working against the worldwide goal to reach net-zero, but leaves itself open to operational risks. Without visibility and oversight into building operations, businesses face risks from the rising costs of energy, higher maintenance costs and unplanned downtime as equipment ages, unmet employee and customer health and safety expectations, and a decrease in brand value from not meeting the expectations of stakeholders.

Its time to rethink the term sustainability, said Brad Surak, Chief Product Officer of Turntide. Until now, sustainability may have meant reducing your environmental impact, but in 2021, it includes survival and growth for businesses - positively impacting everything from profitability to brand value to employee satisfaction. It means using fewer resources while improving your operations. Our solution offers businesses a tangible way to approach sustainability so it delivers strategic value across the organization and improves the bottom line.

Turntide for Buildings gives owners, managers, and operators the visibility they need to control and maintain systems like HVAC and lighting, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. It collects data from an ecosystem of connected equipment including the Smart Motor System and edge equipment such as smart thermostats, IAQ sensors, and gateway devices, to provide a dashboard of cloud insights and control capabilities that enables more efficient oversight and management across a portfolio of locations.

Reduction of Carbon Emissions - reduce HVAC energy use on average by 64% with the Smart Motor System, a patented switched reluctance motor technology that transforms disconnected, energy-inefficient equipment into smart, connected, optimized equipment.

Capture Cost-Savings - place schedules and setpoint rules on auto-pilot to maximize system efficiency. Create custom alerts to inform proactive equipment maintenance schedules and avoid unplanned downtime.

Maintain Occupant Comfort Standards - manage indoor air quality, temperature, lighting, and more to create comfortable, productive work environments.

Centralized Portfolio Management - integrate with existing building management systems (BMS) and third-party applications within a portfolio of buildings via a single pane of glass.

Customers such as Fifth Third Bank are already seeing benefits to this new approach to sustainability that focuses on end-to-end efficient operations and serviceability of their portfolio of buildings and equipment.

Fifth Third is committed to environmental leadership in the financial services sector and to driving the transition to a sustainable future, said Robert Woodall, property technical manager at Fifth Third Bank. We are committed to reducing the environmental impact from our operations by working with innovative companies like Turntide to help us achieve our sustainability goal of decreasing energy consumption by 25 percent and create long-term value for the communities we serve.

In the UK, mass retailer Wilko is incorporating automation and energy efficiency into its strategy for achieving sustainable operations across its more than 400 locations.

We recognize that climate change represents a significant global environmental threat. Wilko has a part to play in positively impacting climate change by reducing our carbon emissions, through the use of renewable energy and being energy efficient, says James Dorling, Group Property & Estates Director, Wilko. It helps keep our costs down, gives better value to our customers, and plays a part in reducing environmental impact. More than ever, were taking steps to become more sustainable by using technologies like Turntide to realize energy savings, and in doing so, joining the fight against climate change.

Turntide for Buildings is ideal for commercial and industrial facilities such as banking, retail, convenience stores, restaurants, grocery, education, and warehouse facilities.

Learn more about Turntide and the companys technology solutions for sustainable operations at https://turntide.com/ or register to join our webinar Rethink Sustainability: More Than a Boost to Your Bottom Line on Wednesday, September 22nd at 2:00 PM ET 11:00 AM PT.

About Turntide

Turntide Technologies develops breakthrough technologies that drive down energy consumption and operating costs in buildings, agriculture, and electric transport, creating a path to 100% clean energy and business sustainability. Turntide powers optimally efficient equipment through its Smart Motor System, with insights, controls, and automation to enable electrification and sustainable operations. Turntide enables companies to lead their industries by attacking energy waste at every level and operating smarter for accelerated growth. For more information, visit https://turntide.com/ or follow the company on YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CSE: AGN) (FRANKFURT: AGW) (OTCQB: AGNPF) (the Company or Algernon) a clinical stage pharmaceutical development company, is pleased to announce that its CEO Christopher J. Moreau will be delivering the Keynote Presentation at the Microdose Virtual 2021 The DMT Conference: A Molecular Masterclass.



The conference will be taking place on September 9th and 10th and will bring together the worlds leading relevant experts in biotech, psychedelic research, as well as science and medicine. The conference will explore the potential of DMT related to drug development, safety, clinical care and applications, applicable law, regulation, business, markets, science, research, as well as history and culture.

Tickets are available for this important virtual event at Microdose Virtual 2021 DMT Conference Tickets

Moreau will be delivering his Keynote Presentation at 2:00PM EST on Thursday September 9th, which will be entitled DMT  New Hope for Healing the Brain After a Stroke. He will be providing a review of Algernons establishment of a unique clinical research program for the treatment of stroke focused on DMT, a known psychedelic compound that is part of the tryptamine family (other drugs in the tryptamine family include psilocybin and psilocin).

Algernon plans to be the first company globally to test DMT for stroke in humans and Moreau will be highlighting Algernons recent announcement that its own preclinical study has confirmed that DMT increased the growth of cortical neurons by 40% with statistical significance in one arm of the study, when compared to control. The Company also reported that the increased growth was achieved with a sub hallucinogenic dose.

The below images show the dramatic differences in neurite outgrowth comparing an untreated single cell on the left, with a single cell that was exposed to 30 nM DMT. The treated cell shows significant growth activity in the number of processes per cell.

About DMT

Algernon has established a clinical research program for the treatment of stroke focused on DMT, a known psychedelic compound that is part of the tryptamine family (other drugs in the tryptamine family include psilocybin and psilocin). Algernon plans to be the first company globally to test DMT for stroke in humans.

Algernon has also filed new provisional patents for new forms of DMT, in addition to formulation, dosage and method of use claims for ischemic stroke. The Company has also filed claims for combination therapy of DMT and Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT).

About Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Algernon is a drug re-purposing company that investigates safe, already approved drugs, and naturally occurring compounds, for new disease applications, moving them efficiently and safely into new human trials, developing new formulations and seeking new regulatory approvals in global markets. Algernon specifically investigates compounds that have never been approved in the U.S. or Europe to avoid off label prescription writing.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Christopher J. Moreau

CEO

Algernon Pharmaceuticals Inc.

604.398.4175 ext 701

info@algernonpharmaceuticals.com

investors@algernonpharmaceuticals.com

www.algernonpharmaceuticals.com.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER STATEMENT: No Securities Exchange has reviewed nor accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release. This news release contains forward-looking statements relating to product development, licensing, commercialization and regulatory compliance issues and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as will, may, should, anticipate, expects and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Companys expectations include the failure to satisfy the conditions of the relevant securities exchange(s) and other risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulations. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9d6cd350-7a40-44ab-8ed6-a9da39d7f31e
WESTPORT, Conn., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HMG Strategy, the Worlds #1 digital platform for enabling technology executives to reimagine the enterprise and reshape the business world, is excited to be hosting its 2021 HMG Live! Minneapolis CIO Executive Leadership Summit on September 28. HMG Strategys highly interactive events bring together the worlds most distinguished and innovative security and business technology leaders to discuss the most pressing leadership, strategic, cultural, technology and career challenges and opportunities that they face today  and into the future.



The 2021 HMG Live! Minneapolis CIO Executive Leadership Summit will include insights on what's needed for CIOs, CISOs and business technology executives to become boardroom-ready, along with the impacts that diversity, equity and inclusion criteria are having on board searches.

Our research reveals that over the past two years, a growing number of company boards are actively seeking executives with enterprise technology experience to help their organizations successfully navigate the digital pivot and to effectively address cyber threats, said Hunter Muller, President and CEO at HMG Strategy. Now more than ever, its vital for CIOs and business technology executives to be able to communicate effectively with the Board in terms that Board members can understand.

World-class CIOs and industry executives speaking at the 2021 HMG Live! Minneapolis CIO Executive Leadership Summit on September 28 will include:

Teddy Bekele , SVP & CTO, Land O'Lakes

, SVP & CTO, Land O'Lakes Shaun Braun , SVP of Digital Transformation, 3M

, SVP of Digital Transformation, 3M Sarah Engstrom , CISO and VP IT Security, Productivity & Privacy, CHS Inc.

, CISO and VP IT Security, Productivity & Privacy, CHS Inc. Tony Leng , Managing Director, Digital Transformation and CIO Practice Lead, Diversified Search

, Managing Director, Digital Transformation and CIO Practice Lead, Diversified Search Brian Lillie , Chief Product & Technology Officer and (acting) CIO, Zayo

, Chief Product & Technology Officer and (acting) CIO, Zayo John McKennell , VP, CISO, ECMC Group

, VP, CISO, ECMC Group Anne Plese , Senior Director, Product Marketing, Rimini Street

, Senior Director, Product Marketing, Rimini Street Kacey Sensenich , CTO, Rockingham County Schools

, CTO, Rockingham County Schools Gary Sorrentino , Chairman of the Zoom CISO Council, Global Deputy CIO, Zoom

, Chairman of the Zoom CISO Council, Global Deputy CIO, Zoom Muddu Sudhakar , CEO, Aisera

, CEO, Aisera Kirsten Wolberg, Former CTO and COO, DocuSign



Valued Partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Minneapolis CIO Executive Leadership Summit include Aisera, Akamai, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Nutanix, Rimini Street, Inc., RingCentral, Rubrik, SafeGuard Cyber, SIM Minnesota, Skybox Security, Zoom and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! Minneapolis CIO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here.

HMG Strategy will also host its 2021 HMG Live! Detroit CIO Executive Leadership Summit which will be held on September 14. Timely topics to be discussed include the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), edge computing and other advanced technologies that can enable manufacturers to make the pivot to Industry 4.0 while applying these technologies securely; the benefits of embracing a low-code approach to application development and the challenges that must be overcome; along with mastering soft skills for leadership success.

Top-tier CIOs and business technology executives speaking at the 2021 HMG Live! Detroit CIO Executive Leadership Summit on September 14 include:

Mohamed (Mo) Abuali , Managing Partner/Chief Evangelist, IoTco

, Managing Partner/Chief Evangelist, IoTco Phil Alfano , Field CTO, Apptio

, Field CTO, Apptio David Decker , Director IT, American Axle & Manufacturing

, Director IT, American Axle & Manufacturing Arun DeSouza , Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Nexteer Automotive Corporation

, Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Nexteer Automotive Corporation Tamara Faber-Doty , Chief Digital Officer and VP IT, Consumers Energy

, Chief Digital Officer and VP IT, Consumers Energy Maru Flores , Global Collaboration and Productivity Technology Services, Ford Motor Company

, Global Collaboration and Productivity Technology Services, Ford Motor Company David Franco , Director of Exceptional Academy, Living and Learning Enrichment Center

, Director of Exceptional Academy, Living and Learning Enrichment Center Dennis Hodges , CIO, Inteva Products LLC

, CIO, Inteva Products LLC Mike Homant , Director, Enterprise Technology Operations, Department of Innovation and Technology, City of Detroit

, Director, Enterprise Technology Operations, Department of Innovation and Technology, City of Detroit David Jackson , Partner, Mercer

, Partner, Mercer Tony Kaczmarek , VP, Product Management, Plex

, VP, Product Management, Plex Thomas Kelly , Executive Director and CEO, Automation Alley

, Executive Director and CEO, Automation Alley Kelly Knepley , CIO, DexKo Global

, CIO, DexKo Global Sanjay Kumar , Senior Principal, Siemens Digital Industries

, Senior Principal, Siemens Digital Industries Anne Plese , Senior Director, Product Marketing, Rimini Street

, Senior Director, Product Marketing, Rimini Street Miroslav Samoylenko , Director of Integration Architecture, Trane Technologies

, Director of Integration Architecture, Trane Technologies Brandon Smith , VP of Development, human-I-T

, VP of Development, human-I-T Matthew Thomas, Managing Director, Accenture

Valued Partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Detroit CIO Executive Leadership Summit include, Akamai, Apptio, Auth0, BetterCloud, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, NPower, Nutanix, Rimini Street, RingCentral, SafeGuard Cyber, SentinelOne, SIM Detroit, Skybox Security, Zoom and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! Detroit CIO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here.

HMG Strategys 2021 HMG Live! Global CISO Executive Leadership Summit will be held on September 15. Timely topics to be discussed include the fresh skillsets that are needed to safeguard the enterprise now and into the future along with effective communication skills for educating the Board on the changing risk environment.

World-class CISOs and industry executives speaking at the 2021 HMG Live! Global CISO Executive Leadership Summit on September 15 will include:

Abhishek Agarwal , CISO, Fresenius Medical Care North America

, CISO, Fresenius Medical Care North America Michael Coden , Platinion Managing Director, Boston Consulting Group

, Platinion Managing Director, Boston Consulting Group Mike Coogan , Director of Information Security and CISO, Waste Management

, Director of Information Security and CISO, Waste Management Mignona Cote , Head of Security, AWS Global and Strategic Accounts, Amazon Web Services

, Head of Security, AWS Global and Strategic Accounts, Amazon Web Services Anthony DeCristofaro , President and CEO, Qnext

, President and CEO, Qnext Arun DeSouza, Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Nexteer Automotive Corporation

Chief Information Security & Privacy Officer, Nexteer Automotive Corporation Todd Fitzgerald , Vice President, Cybersecurity Strategy, Cybersecurity Collaborative

, Vice President, Cybersecurity Strategy, Cybersecurity Collaborative Rocco Grillo , Managing Director  Global Cyber Risk Services & Incident Response Investigation, Alvarez & Marsal

, Managing Director  Global Cyber Risk Services & Incident Response Investigation, Alvarez & Marsal Fred Harris , Head of Cybersecurity Risk, Data Risk and IT Risk, Societe Generale Corporate and Investment Banking

, Head of Cybersecurity Risk, Data Risk and IT Risk, Societe Generale Corporate and Investment Banking Wanda Jones-Heath , CISO/DAF Principal Cyber Advisor, U.S. Air Force

, CISO/DAF Principal Cyber Advisor, U.S. Air Force Steve Katz , Owner, Security Risk Solutions, LLC

, Owner, Security Risk Solutions, LLC Susan Koski , Head of Security & Enterprise Response, The PNC Financial Services Group

, Head of Security & Enterprise Response, The PNC Financial Services Group Tomas Maldonado , CISO, National Football League

, CISO, National Football League Israel Martinez , Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security

, Industry Advisor, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Shamla Naidoo , Head of Cloud Strategy, Netskope; Board Director, QBE, SAC and Reference Point

, Head of Cloud Strategy, Netskope; Board Director, QBE, SAC and Reference Point Frank Price , SVP & Chief Information Risk Officer, Hudsons Bay Company

, SVP & Chief Information Risk Officer, Hudsons Bay Company Jim Routh , Board Member, Advisor, Investor; Former CSO, CISO

, Board Member, Advisor, Investor; Former CSO, CISO Larkin Ryder , Director of Product Security, Slack

, Director of Product Security, Slack James Shira , U.S. Chief Information & Technology Officer, PwC

, U.S. Chief Information & Technology Officer, PwC Todd Thorsen , Director of Information Security, Risk Management and Compliance, Code42

, Director of Information Security, Risk Management and Compliance, Code42 Mike Towers , CISO, Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc.

, CISO, Takeda Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. Melissa Vice , Chief Operations Officer, Vulnerability Disclosure Program, DoD Cyber Crime Center

, Chief Operations Officer, Vulnerability Disclosure Program, DoD Cyber Crime Center Steve Winterfeld, Advisory CISO, Akamai



Valued Partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Global CISO Executive Leadership Summit include Akamai, Auth0, BetterCloud, Code42, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Nutanix, Qnext, RingCentral, SafeGuard Cyber, Skybox Security, Slack, Zoom and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! Global CISO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here.

HMG Strategy will also be hosting its 2021 HMG Live! Phoenix CIO Executive Leadership Summit on September 16. Timely topics to be discussed include recommendations to identify and execute on new opportunities for digital disruption, along with insights on how best to address ransomware attacks - and whether organizations should be paying cyber-criminals.

Top-tier CIOs and business technology executives speaking at the 2021 HMG Live! Phoenix CIO Executive Leadership Summit on September 16 will include:

Grant Asplund , Growth Technologies Evangelist, Check Point Software Technologies, Inc.

, Growth Technologies Evangelist, Check Point Software Technologies, Inc. Benjamin Bingham , Senior Cybersecurity Executive for a Major Las Vegas Gaming/Entertainment Establishment

, Senior Cybersecurity Executive for a Major Las Vegas Gaming/Entertainment Establishment Stefanie Causey , Associate Partner, Salesforce Consulting Services - Financial Services Sector IBM Global Business Services

, Associate Partner, Salesforce Consulting Services - Financial Services Sector IBM Global Business Services Max Chan, CIO, Avnet

CIO, Avnet James Costello, CISO, Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold

CISO, Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Ricoh Danielson , Cyber Security Incident Response, Digital Forensic, and Insider Risk

, Cyber Security Incident Response, Digital Forensic, and Insider Risk Gary Desai , CIO, Discount Tire

, CIO, Discount Tire Frank Grimmelmann , President & CEO/Intelligence Liaison Officer, Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance

, President & CEO/Intelligence Liaison Officer, Arizona Cyber Threat Response Alliance Firasat Hussain , CTO, arrivia

, CTO, arrivia Nilesh Joshi , Vice President and Head of IT, Global Nephrology Solutions

, Vice President and Head of IT, Global Nephrology Solutions Rob Lloyd , CIO, City of San Jose

, CIO, City of San Jose Bianca Lochner , CIO, City of Scottsdale

, CIO, City of Scottsdale Jeff McKibben , CIO, Ultra Clean Technologies

, CIO, Ultra Clean Technologies Craig Moringiello , Assistant Special Agent in Charge, FBI Phoenix Cyber/Counter Intelligence/Technology

, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, FBI Phoenix Cyber/Counter Intelligence/Technology Pat Phelan , VP Market Research, Rimini Street

, VP Market Research, Rimini Street Rich Phillips , Senior Principal Security Architect, ON Semiconductor

, Senior Principal Security Architect, ON Semiconductor Peter Robinson , VP of Global Applications and Digital, Avnet

, VP of Global Applications and Digital, Avnet Atul Sahai , SVP, Strategy and Operations, Ally.io

, SVP, Strategy and Operations, Ally.io Kacey Sensenich , CTO, Rockingham County Schools

, CTO, Rockingham County Schools Muddu Sudhakar , CEO, Aisera

, CEO, Aisera Melissa Vice , Interim Director, Vulnerability Disclosure Program, DoD Cyber Crime Center

, Interim Director, Vulnerability Disclosure Program, DoD Cyber Crime Center Mark Wittenburg, CIO, City of Tempe

Valued Partners for the 2021 HMG Live! Phoenix CIO Executive Leadership Summit include Aisera, Akamai, Ally.io, Arizona Technology Council, BetterCloud, Check Point Software, Darktrace, Forescout Technologies, Globant, Horizon3.ai, Illumio, Nutanix, Rimini Street, Inc., RingCentral, SafeGuard Cyber, SIM Arizona, Skybox Security, Zoom and Zscaler.

To learn more about the 2021 HMG Live! Phoenix CIO Executive Leadership Summit and to register for the event, click here.

To learn about all of HMG Strategys Upcoming CIO & CISO Summits, click here.

HMG STRATEGYS UPCOMING WEBINARS AND DIGITAL ROUNDTABLES

On September 13, HMG Strategy will be hosting a webinar powered by Google Cloud on `Reimagining the Business Through Application Innovation. In this event, which will feature Emmanuel Salazar Dominguez, IT Director at Banco Azteca; Chris Hood, Head of Business Platform Strategy at Google Cloud; Ramesh Razdan, Global CIO at Bain & Company; and Ken Russell, Chief Innovation Officer at Curran Biotech, the speakers will explore how application innovation can help fuel collaboration, deliver personalized and insight-driven experiences and provide companies with a competitive edge.

To learn more about this event and to register, click here.

To learn more about HMG Strategys archived and upcoming webinars, click here.

HMG STRATEGYS 2021 GLOBAL LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AWARDS

The HMG Strategy 2021 Global Leadership Institute Awards honor exemplary technology leaders and leadership teams who are delivering exceptional value to their organizations. This award recognizes those who have reimagined and reinvented themselves to place their organizations on the fast track to groundbreaking transformation in dynamic times. Technology executives and their teams who receive these awards are being recognized for accomplishments in the following areas: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Leading into the C-suite; Creating New Go-to-Market Business Models; Modernizing Enterprise Architecture; and Building a Culture of Trust.

To learn more about HMG Strategys 2021 Global Leadership Institute Awards and to nominate a deserving executive, click here.

About HMG Strategy

HMG Strategy is the world's leading digital platform for connecting technology executives to reimagine the enterprise and reshape the business world. The HMG Strategy global network consists of more than 400,000 CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, CDOs, senior business technology executives, search industry executives, venture capitalists, industry experts and world-class thought leaders.

HMG Strategy was founded in 2008 by Hunter Muller, a leadership expert who has worked side-by-side with Fortune 2000 executives with strategic planning and career ascent for the past 30+ years. HMG Strategys regional and virtual CIO and CISO Executive Leadership Series, authored books and Digital Resource Center deliver unique, peer-driven guidance from CIOs, CISOs, CTOs, CDOs and technology executives on leadership, innovation, transformation and career ascent. HMG Strategy offers a range of peer-led research services such as its CIO & CISO Executive Leadership Alliance (CELA) program which bring together the worlds top CIOs, CISOs and technology executives to brainstorm on the top opportunities and challenges facing them in their roles.

HMG Strategys Research Stack is a unique set of research services that are designed to keep business technology executives up to speed on the latest and global geo-economic trends that are impacting businesses and industries.

HMG Ventures is a venture capital unit thats designed to connect CIOs, CTOs, CISOs and other technology executives with innovative early-stage technology companies from Silicon Valley to Tel Aviv. HMG Ventures provides technology executives with a window into hot emerging technology companies that can help move the needle for their businesses while also offering these executives unparalleled personal investment opportunities. One early-stage investment in an enterprise-level AI-powered service management provider has generated a 100X return.

HMG Strategy also produces the HMG Security Innovation Accelerator Panel, a new webinar series thats designed to connect enterprise technology and security leaders with the most innovative technology and cybersecurity companies from across the world.

To learn more about the 7 Pillars of Trust for HMG Strategy's unique business model, click here.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5f810a5d-273b-458e-bfa5-5dd13541e934
SAN FRANCISCO, CA,, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Corcoran Global Living, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Corcoran Group, LLC, announced that it has welcomed Highland Partners to its growing West Coast operation. This partnership amplifies Corcoran Global Livings footprint across the San Francisco Bay Area with two offices in the East Bay, five in San Francisco, eight in the North Bay, two in the South Bay, and three in Contra Costa County. With a multitude of successes across California and Nevada, Corcoran Global Living now encompasses 66 offices with more than 2,300 associates and annual combined sales of $8.5 billion.

By uniting the top brokerages, top independent teams, and top professionals in the industry, were setting a new bar for service and excellence. Working with Heidi, Adam and Debbi, it was immediately clear that we share a truly aligned vision to create and support a culture of growth and collaboration, commented Michael Mahon, CEO and Founder of Corcoran Global Living. With our shared ideals and commitment to be a force for positive change in the communities we call home, our success is unstoppable.

Todays announcement advances Corcoran Global Livings footing across Californias East Bay with offices in Piedmont as well as the desirable Montclair neighborhood of Oakland. This latest expansion includes the leadership of Heidi Marchesotti, Adam Betta, Debbi DiMaggio, and Mindy Sun joining the company as partners. Additionally, Marchesotti and Betta will join the leadership team as District Office Managers for the East Bay.

Our partnership with Corcoran Global Living presented us with a rare opportunity. Were now uniquely positioned in joining with CGLs leadership and associates in key markets across the Bay Area to better serve our clientele, commented Marchesotti. Were excited to be a part of a new approach in the real estate industry, one that we know will support how our agents grow their business.

As part of CGL, associates will have access to powerful resources, staff support, cutting-edge technology, marketing platforms, and robust referral opportunities. Further augmenting Corcoran Global Livings extensive network is its exclusive membership in the Board of Regents of Whos Who in Luxury Real Estate in seven of the nine Bay Area counties. A network of the worlds most elite luxury real estate professionals, each Regent represents a defined territory, serving as a leading authority in their region. Corcoran Global Living is the select Board of Regents representative in Alameda, San Francisco, Contra Costa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Marin and Sonoma counties in the Bay Area. Additional territories include the coastal communities from Manhattan Beach to Long Beach in Los Angeles County, as well as Orange, San Diego and San Bernardino counties in Southern California and in the Greater Las Vegas area of Nevada.

About Corcoran Global Living

Founded on the principle of putting people first, Corcoran Global Living, an independently owned and operated affiliate of The Corcoran Group, serves the California and Nevada markets with 66 strategically located offices in Northern California, Southern California, California Sierra and Nevada. Corcoran Global Living is well positioned to provide exceptional service to its very loyal customer base, with more than 2,300 dedicated, professional associates and gross annual sales of $8.5 billion. Known for making a positive difference in the communities in which associates and staff live, the Corcoran Global Living organization is poised for exponential expansion to service clients in California, Nevada, and additional new markets and communities. From luxury homes and income properties to vacation getaways and first-time homes, Corcoran Global Living has the experience, insight, and expertise to achieve and surpass clients highest expectations. For more information, visit CorcoranGL.com.

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DALLAS, TX, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Puration, Inc. (OTC PINK: PURA) (PURA) today released an update on construction plans for its Farmersville Hemp Brand Facility. The company recently broke ground on its 70-acre property in Farmersville Texas. A construction pad has been cleared for the building of multiple buildings where PURA will facilitate hands on marketing for a wide variety of products that can be derived from hemp.

The Farmersville Hemp Brand Facility will be able to host client companies for seminars to demonstrate hemp processing and how hemp can be used as a natural, cost eff ective and even superior alternative to currently available construction materials, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals, clothing, fuel, and plastics - to name just a few. According to one source, more than 25,000 products can be made from hemp.

PURA expects to have an initial, temporary building, up and operational before the end of the year while construction on the primary facilities gets underway with a target completion date yet to be set for some time next year.

PURA is building processing and cultivation partners with the intention of establishing an industrial hemp brand cooperative under the Farmersville Hemp Brand name. In the fashion that Sun-Maid Raisins collectively markets for growers all selling under one brand name, PURA plans to collectively market for multiple hemp growers and processors under the Farmersville Hemp Brand name.

PURA has already forged partnerships with Alkame Holdings, Inc. (OTC Pink: ALKM), North American Cannabis Holdings, Inc. (OTC Pink: USMJ) and PAO Group, Inc. (OTC Pink: PAOG). More partnerships are in the works.

Look for more news from PURA on the development of the Farmersville Hemp Brand to include more construction news, more partnership news and more marketing and branding news.

For more information on Puration, visit http://www.purationinc.com

Contact:

Puration, Inc.

Brian Shibley,

info@aciconglomerated.com

+1 (800) 861-1350

Disclaimer/Safe Harbor: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Litigation Reform Act. The statements reflect the Company's current views with respect to future events that involve risks and uncertainties. Among others, these risks include the expectation that Alkame will achieve significant sales, the failure to meet schedule or performance requirements of the Company's contracts, the Company's liquidity position, the Company's ability to obtain new contracts, the emergence of competitors with greater financial resources and the impact of competitive pricing. In the light of these uncertainties, the forward-looking events referred to in this release might not occur. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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CHICAGO, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The McDonald's Operators of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana (MOCNI) are on the hunt for Chicagoland's number one, most loyal McDonald's fan through a first-of-its-kind local video contest - the MyMcDonald's Rewards Chicagoland Contest, now through September 30.

To enter the contest, McDonald's is asking customers to make a fun, creative 30-second video demonstrating why they are the biggest, most loyal fan in all of Chicagoland. Once customers film their video, they can submit and enter to win in two ways:

Make a 30-second video on why you are McDonald's most loyal fan. Bonus points for creativity, humor, and individuality.

Upload to McDonaldsChicago.com or share on your personal Instagram account (your profile must be public), and make sure to tag @mcdchicagoland on Instagram using contest hashtags, #McDChi #Contest

The ultimate McDonald's fan in all of Chicagoland will be crowned in mid-October and will win:

A $5,000 Arch Card to enjoy their McDonald's menu favorites for the foreseeable future

A one-of-a-kind Big Mac trophy, which provides the winner ultimate bragging rights

An exclusive party for 10 at McDonald's Corporate Headquarters in Chicago's West Loop, complete with a limo ride, where they can enjoy appearances from classic McDonaldsland characters such as Grimace and the Hamburglar, plus an opportunity to meet with McDonald's chefs.

Four runners up can also win $500 Arch Cards and exclusive McDonald's merch.

"We know we have many loyal fans throughout the Chicago-area and with the recent launch of the MyMcDonald's Rewards Program, we thought this was the perfect opportunity to recognize them and give one lucky fan a once-in-a-lifetime experience," says Chicago-area Owner/Operator Sam Lubeznik. "This is an opportunity for our superfans to tell us what it is that makes McDonald's special to them. Maybe it's the fries! Maybe it's the McRib! Maybe it's your go-to road trip stop or part of a family tradition. Everyone's McDonald's story is different, and we want to celebrate all of them."

This contest is in support of the new MyMcDonald's Rewards loyalty program, which launched earlier this year. McDonald's first nationwide loyalty program allowing you to unlock freebies simply by enjoying your favorite menu items. MyMcDonald's Rewards is available via the McDonald's App, and fans can pocket 100 points for every one dollar spent on qualifying purchases.

Learn more about the MyMcDonald's Rewards Chicagoland Contest, including how to enter and win the iconic prize, at McDonaldsChicago.com.

Example Videos/BROLL: https://photos.app.goo.gl/oyAR2ePbPtpv4ZqQ7

Media Contact:

Christina Gales

224-213-3188

christina.gales@porternovelli.com

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This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com.

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Toronto, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Since 2010, Autism Speaks Canada Community Grants program has awarded over $4.3 million to 184 projects across the country. Grants are awarded through a rigorous review process, including a community panel of autistic self-advocates, family members, friends, service providers and research experts across Canada.

Mental health concerns and lack of social engagement were amongst the most challenging experiences to navigate for autistic adults, children and their families these past years. Autism Speaks Canadas Community Grants aims to expand the capacity of service providers and respond to current needs and service gaps. We encourage innovation and replication projects, and evidence-based/evidence-informed service delivery. "We have listened and updated Community Grants to match the current needs of autistic Canadians. Autism Speaks Canada will focus on funding evidence-informed projects across the country that support mental health and increase social engagement opportunities for autistic Canadians and their families." Said Jill Farber, Executive Director of Autism Speaks Canada

Eligibility & Application Procedure

The maximum award for each grant is $40,000. The grant term is for one year, after the start of the project, ending in January-March 2023. Applicants must submit a full application that will be ranked based on the review criteria provided. All applications will be reviewed by a community panel with representation across the country including autistic self-advocates, caregivers, researchers and professionals working in the field of autism. For the applicant to be eligible:

Lead organization must have charitable status in Canada

If you are collaborating with another agency, all partner organizations must show an active role and responsibility in program creation, implementation and/or evaluation

Letters of Support outlining involvement and contributions from partner organizations must be submitted with your application

The project must be evidence informed

Proposal Submission-Review Timeline

Applications open: August 16, 2021

RFA submission deadline: September 27, 2021

Anticipated Date for Award Notices: December 30, 2021

Anticipated Award Start Date: January 1-March 1, 2022

Apply today www.autismspeaks.ca/CommunityGrants

About Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autism, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. There is not one autism but many subtypes, and each person with autism can have unique strengths and challenges. Autism Spectrum Disorder affects 70 million people globally. Approximately 1 in 66 children and youth are diagnosed with ASD in Canada.

About Autism Speaks Canada

Autism Speaks Canada is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families by supporting and working with community partners; enhancing resources and services; increasing understanding, acceptance and inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.




Dallas, TX, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Associa Principal Management Group of North Texas (PMG North Texas), Associa Houston Community Management Services, Associa Principal Management Group of Houston, Associa Hill Country, and Somerset Association Management announce the second-annual Associa Texas LIVE! virtual music event to be held on October 21, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. CT. The event will benefit Associas national non-profit organization, Associa Cares.

The private virtual concert will feature the musical talents of Jack Ingram, a country music artist who has released 11 studio albums and had six songs on the country Top 40.

The live streaming event will also feature a special Q&A session with Mr. Ingram after the concert, as well as door prizes.

In 2020, Associa Cares helped 200 families across North America who had experienced a disaster and 84 organizations working directly with those most vulnerable to the economic downturn brought on by the pandemic. This included eight Texas organizations providing food and shelter to the elderly, homeless, and families in need. In early 2021, Associa Cares provided aid to 117 Texas families who were impacted by the historic winter storm that devastated so many and left millions without power and food.

The work that Associa Cares does is more important now than ever before, stated Andrew Fortin, Associa Cares president. In the last year, Associa Cares has provided critical assistance to families facing the destruction of tornados, wildfires, building collapses, and other devastating crises. We depend on our supporters and fundraising events like Texas LIVE! to continue to help those in need. We encourage everyone to join us for a night of music and fun on October 21st and help support Associa Cares.

Associa Cares has provided assistance to over 3,000 families and over $4 million has been distributed since 2007. To view Associa Cares fundraising disclosure statement, please visit http://www.associacares.org/fundraising-disclosure-statement/.

Associa Cares funds are distributed to organizations and families of Associa-managed and non-Associa managed communities. To donate to Associa Cares or apply for assistance, please visit our website at http://www.associacares.org.

To like Associa Cares on Facebook, visit https://www.facebook.com/associacares/.

Associa Cares is a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization created to assist families and communities in crisis as a result of natural and man-made disasters. Through donations raised from Associa employees and at fundraising events across the country, Associa Cares is able to provide direct financial relief to those affected by these types of tragedies.

With more than 200 branch offices across North America, Associa delivers unsurpassed management and lifestyle services to nearly five million residents worldwide. Our 10,000+ team members lead the industry with unrivaled education, expertise, and trailblazing innovation. For more than 40 years, Associa has provided solutions designed to help communities achieve their vision. To learn more, visit www.associaonline.com.

Stay Connected:

Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/associa

Subscribe to the Blog: https://hub.associaonline.com/

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/associa

Join us on LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/associa

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Photos and sample kits are available for review



SEATTLE, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dream Dinners, which created the meal prep concept nearly 20 years ago, is now helping busy families get dinner on the table nationwide with the expansion of its meal kit home delivery program.

The only meal prep company solely focused on families, Dream Dinners offers an expansive, kid-approved menu. Our mission always has been to make gathering around the family table a cornerstone of daily life, said co-founder and current CEO Tina Kuna, who is credited with creating the retail meal prep industry in 2002. Dream Dinners also is the only national meal prep franchise.

Dream Dinners recently expanded its home delivery program from six to 31 states. It also has 69 retail kitchens where customers assemble kits or pick up ones made for them. Combined with its expanded home delivery service, Dream Dinners now serves families in 48 of the 50 U.S. states.

Kits are prepared from fresh ingredients then frozen, eliminating planning, shopping and chopping. Cooking the meals takes as little as 30 minutes.

As a mom, I know that spending time together as a family is especially important right now, Kuna said. Im very pleased that many more families will be able to take advantage of the convenience meal kits provide.

Home delivery boxes include four family-style dinners. The $99 medium box serves up to three people; the $179 large box feeds up to six. Shipping is free, and there is no commitment.

The September home delivery menu features 12 chef-created meals that delight both kids and grown-ups, including Maple Glazed Pork Tenderloin, Thai Coconut Shrimp Over Jasmine Rice, Mini Turkey Meatloaves with Bacon Ranch Green Beans, and Crunchy Oven Fried Chicken Tenders.

Menu and prices vary at local meal prep kitchens. Delivery is not available to all locations.

About Dream Dinners, the Original Meal Kit Company

Founded in 2002, Dream Dinners mission is to make gathering around the family table a cornerstone of daily life. Guests choose from seasonal, rotating monthly menus, with meal kits prepared from fresh ingredients then frozen until cooked. They are available in the Continental United States at one of 69 retail kitchens or through Dream Dinners home delivery service.

Learn more at www.dreamdinners.com and www.dreamdinnersfranchise.com.

Contact:

Ritter Communications, Brad Ritter

BRitter@bradritter.com

740.815.1892 (mobile)

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c8328bdc-6ff8-4005-8147-a2114a7feb5d
Senguptas extensive background in protein and CPG will aid the company in its rapid expansion driven by consumer demand and industry trends

HARRISONBURG,Va., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a release issued under the same headline earlier today by Farmer Focus, please note CFO Debarshi Sengupta's name within the photo title and caption was incorrect and should be Debarshi Sengupta, not Debarshi Sangupta. The corrected release follows:

Today, Farmer Focus, the only 100% organic and humane-certified chicken company with a mission to protect and promote generational family farms, announced the appointment of Debarshi Sengupta as Chief Financial Officer. Sengupta brings with him over 20 years of financial and operational experience.

As CFO, he will build on the companys strong financial foundation and performance-oriented culture. Sengupta will oversee Finance & Accounting, FP&A, IT, Treasury, Tax and Investor Relations, as well as manage Farmer Focus relationships with investors, lending institutions, and the financial community. He will use his diverse and extensive financial knowledge across the protein and CPG industries to guide Farmer Focuss growth and solidify its position as the largest exclusively organic poultry company. Debarshi is succeeding the retiring CFO Dan Detamore-Hunsberger, who led the company to profitability through its early growth stage and established a solid foundation.

We are grateful for Dans steadfast leadership over the years that has made it possible for Farmer Focus to execute its mission, noted Erik Vaughan, Farmer Focus President and COO. As we look to take the company to the next level, Debarshis financial acumen and operational experience will be instrumental in creating a strategic path forward and fueling our tremendous growth.

Sengupta joins the company from Clarity Food Ventures LLC, the mission-based branded CPG startup he co-founded. Prior to that, Sengupta was at JBT Corporation (NYSE: JBT), a global food equipment solutions provider. At JBT, he served as Executive Vice President overseeing M&A, Strategy, Investor Relations and FP&A, and also as Division CFO of the companys largest segment, FoodTech Protein. Prior to JBT, Sengupta advised global food & beverage clients as an investment banker at Banc of America Securities. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MBA and Master of Engineering Management (MEM) from Northwestern Universitys Kellogg School of Management and McCormick School of Engineering, respectively.

I am honored and humbled to take on this servant leadership role at a company whose powerful mission and values I am strongly drawn to, Sengupta said. Joining the Farmer Focus team will enable me to use my experience and talent to help transform an industry and help this company set an example of how food companies can create meaningful and lasting change.

This hire is the most recent indication of the momentous growth Farmer Focus is experiencing, bolstered by its mission and fueled by consumers adoption of its branded products. Other noteworthy markers of expansion include:

In 2021 & 2020, the Farmer Focus farming family grew by 62%. The company currently works with over 73 family farmers, with over 100 more on the waiting list.

Farmer Focus is the #2 organic chicken brand in grocery stores over the latest 13 weeks as indicated by IRI Sales Data Period ending 8.8.21.

Farmer Focus is the #1 fastest growing brand in grocery stores over the latest 52 weeks as indicated by IRI Sales Data Period ending 8.8.21.

Farmer Focus became the largest exclusively organic chicken company in the US.

ABOUT FARMER FOCUS

Founded by sixth-generation chicken farmer Corwin Heatwole in 2014, Farmer Focus is the only 100% organic and Humane Certified chicken company with a mission to protect and promote generational family farms. By shifting farm-level decision-making and chicken ownership back to farmers and empowering them to farm the way they know is best, Farmer Focus significantly improves the financial viability of the farm and farmer profit. Available in 2,500 stores throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including major retailers like Publix, Kroger, Harris Teeter, and more, Farmer Focus is committed to consistently producing exceedingly delicious, 100% organic and humanely raised chicken that is better for people, the planet, and animals.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/efe73612-8ec2-40e6-b6ad-5520f1ed28af

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8804c1dc-55c7-4580-9313-d3419705c394

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a16d7e6f-7e70-4908-bacb-383b8f1ddef3
Back to backpacking: Best places to go in Inland Northwest
MONGO [mdash] Ida Mae Christner, 94, Mongo, died at her home Sept. 9. Mrs. Christner was born July 28, 1927, in Topeka, to Martin W. and Lovina (Yoder) Yoder. Living her lifetime in LaGrange County, she was a homemaker and loved to cook and bake. She was a volunteer for many years at Miller'
Most people know Louisville as the home of the Kentucky Derby, Muhammad Ali, Louisville Slugger, and the Hot Brown. Some Louisville Metro employees want Kentuckys largest city to be known for one more thing: efficient government. Efficiency is not a term thats used with government very often, and we want to change that, said Tracy Meiners, Information Systems Analyst.

Meiners and her team support close to 6,000 employees across 30 agencies, providing the tools they need to improve processes and more effectively serve citizens. DocuSign eSignature is one of those tools.

Louisville Metros DocuSign journey began in 2018 when it launched its paper-free by 23 initiative. What started as a few internal use cases quickly ramped up to dozens when the pandemic hitand within a few months, the city saw a 2,000% increase in DocuSign usage and made a huge reduction in their paper consumption. In addition to boosting efficiency across the board, DocuSign eSignature played a pivotal role in helping residents and vulnerable organizations stay afloat during a really challenging time.

Providing faster relief to people in need

At the peak of the COVID-19 crisis, the team worked with DocuSign to accelerate the delivery of millions of dollars in federal CARES funds for utility and rental assistance. Using DocuSign PowerForms, Louisville Metro created an intuitive, mobile-friendly application process.

First, applicants schedule an appointment Then, they complete and submit their application along with required documents Next, both the landlord and tenant electronically sign a landlord/tenant agreement to kick off funds disbursement (for rental assistance)

The Office of Resilience and Community Services also set up Neighborhood Place drop boxes throughout the county so residents have the option to submit paper-based application packets for utility and/or rental assistance.

Outside of the government-funded programs, Louisvillians raised close to $11 million for a One Louisville Fund designed to provide swift support to both nonprofit organizations and individuals hit hard by the pandemic. DocuSign transformed what was once an entirely paper-based processenabling the committee to quickly process 1,768 applications and get funds to people 70% faster.

And when the city converted Broadbent Arena into a massive vaccination center, DocuSign was used to help screen and onboard over 4,000 volunteers who signed up to direct traffic, collect paperwork and disinfect clipboards for the chance to get vaccinated early.

The community really came together to help those in need, said Deputy Director Ken Hillebrand. Throughout it all, DocuSign gave us the agility to make changes and improve those processes as we went through the pandemic.

From interoffice to electronic

For Meiners, one of the unintended consequences of implementing DocuSign was this huge increase in productivity. Before making the move to electronic signatures, she was physically shuttling paper packets between departments to avoid interoffice delays. It was not uncommon for many documentsincluding employee timesheets and grant applicationsto float around for up to two weeks before all signatures were captured. Now, that same paperwork can be handled in minutes or hoursand stored electronically for easy retrieval.

Its satisfying when you're helping your internal people be more efficient and do their jobs in a better way.

Adoption accelerated once Louisville Metro found a use case that would be valuable to every agency: employee performance evaluations. Printing and signing forms was no longer feasible with a predominantly remote workforce, and simply posting evaluations to SharePoint made potentially sensitive employee information visible to other contributors. With DocuSign, HR is able to send the appropriate evaluation forms directly to stakeholders who need to sign off on them while keeping private data secure.

Saving time and trees

As Louisville Metro continues to scope processes that can be made more efficient using DocuSign eSignature, Meiners holds monthly user group meetings to share tips and tricks and highlight the environmental impact of using the tool. Through the paper-free by 23 initiatives, the city saved close to three million sheets of paperthe equivalent of 345 trees and nearly two dozen cars worth of greenhouse gases.

The opportunity to integrate DocuSign with enterprise applications is going to be a big game changer for everyone, said Hillebrand. I think we're going to keep finding new ways to use the tool to improve our processes. There are a lot of untapped applications we just haven't discovered yet.
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KAMAZ has presented the KAMAZ-6290 hydrogen fuel cell bus at the COMTRANS-2021 international exhibition in Moscow.





There is still a lot of work to be done. In 2022, we intend to test a prototype KAMAZ hydrogen fuel cell bus in the streets of Moscow, in the environment of actual operation. In case the relevant refueling infrastructure is set up and there is a demand for the new kind of eco-transport on the part of Moscow, we plan to provide for final assembly of hydrogen fuel cell buses at the Sokolniki Car Repair and Construction Plant in the capital of the country, where Kamaz electric buses are already assembled successfully. Chief Automobile Designer Andrei Savinkov

Bus chassis and body were assembled at NEFAZ, a KAMAZ Group subsidiary in Bashkiria. The roof equipment was installed in the research and technology center of KAMAZ.

The body is made of high-strength steel and plastic, supporting the required durability and safety in emergencies. The total weight of the KAMAZ-6282 hydrogen fuel cell bus is 19 tonnes and its overall dimensions are 12.4  2.55  3.4 m.

The bus is powered by hydrogen fuel cells and is fitted with six cylinders for compressed hydrogen storage. The cylinders are roof-mounted for safety purposes. Hydrogen flows skyward in case of a leak and does not get into the compartment. Furthermore, unlike the electric bus with the endurance of 70 km after complete battery recharge, the hydrogen fuel cell bus can travel up to 250 km, which makes it applicable even for interurban traffic.

The world is moving forward and we cannot lag behind. The hydrogen bus, or the hydrogen electric bus, is the next step in the search for alternative energy sources and in the development of modern environmentally friendly passenger transport. When it was created, the KAMAZ-6282 electric bus was taken as a basis. For three years of use in Moscow, this bus has proven itself well comfortable, noiselessness with high environmental performance. CEO of the State Corporation Rostec, Sergey Chemezov

Rostec is the largest shareholder in KAMAZ.

The hydrogen fuel cell system delivers at least 45 kW, which powers the ZF electric portal axle. The bus is equipped with the modern high-performance pneumatic braking system with EBS, ABS, ASR, and EPB, slope stop function, motion interlocking function for open doors, and a monitoring sensor for wear and tear of brake pads.

Braking by traction electric motor with the regeneration system is also provided. Maximum speed is 80 km/h. Total passenger capacity is 80, with 33 seats. Like the electric bus, the new eco-transport is adapted to operation at the ambient temperature from -40  to +40 .

Rostec State Corporation is one of the largest industrial companies in Russia. It unites more than 800 scientific and industrial organizations in 60 regions of the country. Its key areas of activity are aircraft engineering, radioelectronics, medical technologies, innovative materials, etc. The corporations portfolio includes such well-known brands as AvtoVAZ, KAMAZ, UAC, Russian Helicopters, UEC, Uralvagonzavod, Shvabe, Kalashnikov, etc.

Rostec is active in the implementation of all 12 national projects. The company is a key provider of Smart City technology, it is engaged in the digitalization of public administration, industry and social sectors, and it is developing plans for the development of 5G wireless technologies, an Industrial Internet of Things, big data and blockchain systems.

Rostec partners with leading world manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, Daimler, Pirelli and Renault. The corporations products are delivered to more than 100 countries worldwide. Almost a third of the company's revenue comes from the export of high-tech products.
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BOSTON (AP)  Tucked in a grove of ginkgo trees, a glass cube at Logan International Airport pays tribute to those lost aboard the two jetliners that took off from Boston and were hijacked by terrorists who flew them into the World Trade Center towers.

But its mostly silent homage. The memorial etched with the names of those who perished aboard American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 draws few visitors. And the airports other nods to its role in the tragedy  American flags that fly above the jetways at the gates where the flights departed  go mostly unnoticed and unremarked.

Its reflective of the citys uneasy ties to the transcendent events of Sept. 11, 2001.

It still feels surreal in a way, because it was just horrifying beyond anyones ability to grasp, said Virginia Buckingham, who was CEO of the Massachusetts Port Authority, which operates Logan, on 9/11.

Five terrorists smuggled box cutters aboard American Flight 11 at Logan. Five others did the same with United Flight 175 at another terminal. None of the checkpoint supervisors recalled the hijackers or reported anything suspicious regarding their screening, the governments 9/11 Commission said in its report.

On the day of the attacks, Buckingham was preparing to fly to Washington to meet with the Federal Aviation Administration about a new runway at Logan when she got a six-word message that still chills her: Two planes are off the radar.

Six weeks after the attacks, then-Gov. Jane Swift pushed Buckingham to resign. Buckingham, who wrote a haunting 2020 memoir, On My Watch, said it all nearly broke her  and shes only recently come around to the idea that it wasn't her fault.

I have PTSD, both from the trauma of seeing what unfolded like all of us had to, but also being blamed for it caused terrible trauma, bad dreams, depression, she said. I was held personally accountable for the deaths of thousands ... Its been a long road back, and its nothing compared to what the families have gone through.

Underscoring Boston's uneasy attempts to distance itself from its role in the attacks, subdued 20th anniversary remembrances are planned at the airport on Saturday, Sept. 11.

Massport spokesperson Jennifer Mehigan said nothing is planned apart from the usual TSA honor guards stationed at the airport's main checkpoints in the morning. American and United will have private ceremonies.

The agency was thrust into exhaustive legal battles after the developer of the World Trade Center sued it, American and United, claiming porous security at Logan ultimately was to blame for the toppling of the towers. It didn't end until 2017, when insurers for the two airlines agreed to pay $95 million to World Trade Center Properties to close the case.

Massport, also named as a defendant in dozens of wrongful death lawsuits brought by families of 9/11 victims, maintained it had no legal responsibility for the attacks because it didn't control security checkpoints. Ultimately, a federal judge agreed.

Twenty years on, there is little to suggest that Boston has truly come to terms with its supporting role in the attacks.

Although a monument to victims in Boston Public Garden gets traffic, dozens of the 2,997 memorial flags planted there ahead of Saturday's anniversary were uprooted by vandals overnight.

Logan's atmospheric memorial, meanwhile, is rarely visited. On a recent weekday visit, an Associated Press photographer saw only two people enter the cube during a three-hour stay. That's in sharp contrast to the frequently crowded memorial downtown to victims of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, which killed three spectators, wounded more than 260 others and spawned the slogan Boston Strong.

I'm struck by the amnesia thats set in, said James Carroll, a former priest and retired Boston Globe columnist. All we're left with is the mythology of 9/11. I would have expected better of Boston.

As the 20th anniversary approaches, the most poignant Boston-centric commemoration is a one-man operation. Retired flight attendant Paul Veneto, 62, a regular on United Flight 175's Boston to Los Angeles route who had taken 9/11 off, is pushing an airline beverage cart from Boston to New York City to honor the pilots and fellow crew members who died in the attacks.

I turned my life around to be able to recognize these guys who were never recognized, said the Braintree, Massachusetts, resident, whose survivor's guilt triggered a 15-year prescription drug addiction.

Buckingham likens her own life to a piece of sea glass.

It's been broken apart and is nothing like it used to be. But that doesnt mean its not beautiful, doesnt mean its not valuable, she said. If you go through something very, very painful, youre going to carry that pain with you. Youre going to be changed forever.

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Follow AP New England editor Bill Kole on Twitter at https://twitter.com/billkole.

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For more AP coverage of the 9/11 anniversary from New York and around the globe, visit our hub at https://apnews.com/hub/9-11-a-world-changed.
When the remains of Hurricane Ida stormed across the region last week, its heavy rain and floodwaters caused extensive damage to homes, roadways and infrastructure  and it also hit a number of area businesses hard.

Taco Shack on North Main Street in Port Chester, N.Y., which draws a significant number of customers from Greenwich, was flooded and forced to temporarily close its doors, according to its owner, Luis Aguilera. Shoes N More, a family retail operation that has an outlet on Greenwich Avenue, was forced to close its store in Rye, N.Y., after the storm wiped out its entire inventory, a company representative said.

Taco Shack had weathered the COVID-19 storm intact, only for the Port Chester eatery to get swamped by the floodwaters from Ida, Aguilar said.

Really bad, Aguilera recalled. We got about 4 or 5 feet of water in the kitchen and the dining room. All our refrigeration, and all our inventory, couldnt be salvaged.

The restaurant is hoping to tackle the cleanup and reopen in several weeks, he said. Extensive repairs are needed, as well as health and building approvals, which have been expedited by village officials in Port Chester, Aguilera said.

The restaurant owner, who lives in Harrison, N.Y., was running another dining operation in his hometown when the coronavirus pandemic struck in March 2020. He said that he and his partners decided to close the Harrison operation to focus on the Port Chester eatery, which had a liquor license and more dining space, during the difficult times of the pandemic.

Aguilera was happy to report that Taco Shack on North Main had made it through the COVID-19 crisis without any reported cases of the virus, and it did not receive any financial assistance.

But then came the storm last week, when Aguilera said he was taking a family vacation to Michigan. He had to turn around Friday after the damage to the business became apparent after the destructive storm brought up to 8 inches of rain and floodwaters to the area.

Itzel Aguilera, Luiss sister and a partner in the business, set up a GoFundMe Page, to raise $25,000 to help with the repairs and the reopening.

We lost our sister store on Halstead Avenue [in Harrison] due to the pandemic and gave all our blood sweat and tears into holding up Taco Shack. We survived COVID with zero COVID outbreaks, we followed all protocols and stayed open the whole time; we had no financial help and zero loans or assistance. This time we reach out to all our local community to help re-store the shack. We lost everything in our business and are asking for any assistance possible, she says on the GoFundMe page.

Chantilly Patisserie, a bakery in Bronxville, N.Y., is coordinating a cupcake sale from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday at its location at 135 Parkway in that Westchester County village to help the Port Chester restaurant.

Luis Aguilera said there was a camaraderie and sense of solidarity in the restaurant industry, and a willingness to help those in need.

Weve done a lot of things in the community, and we have good relations with other restaurants and entrepreneurs, he said, saying he was grateful for the help.

A big reopening party is planned once the Taco Shack comes back, to thank supporters and repay their kindness  drinks and food will be on us, he said.

The restaurant, which sources many of its products locally, including from a farm in northern Westchester, bills itself as authentic Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.

Aguilera said he had many regular customers in nearby Greenwich and often catered events just over the state line.

Shoes N More on Purchase Street in Rye was another casualty of the storm.

Our newly expanded Rye location lost all the inventory stored in its stockrooms, said Elizabeth Elliott, a company executive. Our Rye staff of 20 years have become temporarily displaced and are now working in our sister stores.

Customers can shop at the other outlets of the family-run business at Bronxville, Greenwich and Mount Kisco, N.Y.

We are so lucky to work with such amazing people and do what we truly love in such wonderful communities, Elliott said. A heartfelt thank you and well wishes to our fellow businesses in Rye who have already shown such compassion to us. We will be back in Rye soon. Everyone stay safe, healthy and kind.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP)  Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Thursday said President Joe Biden's mandate that many private businesses require employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19 is the wrong approach for boosting vaccination rates.

Hutchinson, a Republican who chairs the National Governors Association, compared Biden's order to a push by some conservatives to prohibit private businesses from requiring vaccinations.

I have been consistent in the freedom of businesses to require their employees to be vaccinated, and I have opposed the government from saying businesses cannot exercise that freedom, Hutchinson said in a statement. The same principle should protect the private sector from government overreach that requires them to vaccinate all employees.

The expansive rules announced Thursday mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans. And the roughly 17 million workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.

The rules drew criticism from other Republicans, including a state senator who urged Hutchinson to call a special session in response.

We must fight back against this massive government overreach," GOP Sen. Trent Garner tweeted.

Some of Arkansas' largest employers already require employees to be vaccinated. Springdale-based Tyson Foods last month announced the requirement for its U.S employees. Bentonville-based Walmart is requiring that all workers at its headquarters as well as its managers who travel within the U.S. be vaccinated against COVID-19 by Oct. 4.Several hospitals in the state have also announced vaccine requirements for their employees.

Arkansas on Thursday reported 2,481 new coronavirus cases and 27 new deaths from COVID-19. The state's COVID-19 hospitalizations dropped by 15 to 1,194. There are 508 COVID-19 patients in intensive care units around the state and 315 on ventilators. Only 26 ICU beds are available in the state, though it's unclear how many are equipped for COVID-19 patients.

Arkansas ranks 13th in the country for new cases per capita, according to figures compiled by Johns Hopkins University researchers.

Also on Tuesday a group of parents challenging the Bentonville School District's face mask requirement dismissed their lawsuit, which had been moved from state to federal court. Travis Story, an attorney for the parents, said he planned to file a new version of the lawsuit in state court this week.

Bentonville is among more than 100 school districts that adopted a mask mandate after a judge blocked the state's law banning such requirements.

The number of active virus cases among the state's public school students and teachers dropped by more than 1,000 since Monday to 3,804, according to figures released Thursday by the Department of Health. The department reported 577 active cases at colleges and universities.

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This story has been corrected to show the number of active cases at the states public schools is 3,804.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration on Wednesday removed 18 appointees named to U.S. military academy boards by Donald Trump in the final months of the Republican president's term in office, according to the White House.

Cathy Russell, director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, sent letters to 18 people named to the boards of visitors for the Air Force Academy, Military Academy and Naval Academy calling on them to resign by close of business on Wednesday or face termination.

Among those Biden ousted are some high-profile Trump administration officials, including White House counselor Kellyanne Conway (Air Force Academy), press secretary Sean Spicer (Naval Academy), national security adviser H.R. McMaster (Military Academy) and Office of Management and Budget director Russell Vought (Naval Academy).

White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed that the former Trump officials were asked to resign or face firing. It was not immediately clear if any of those asked to tender their resignations did so before a 6 p.m. deadline set by the White House.

I will let others evaluate whether they think Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer and others were qualified, or not political, to serve on these boards, Psaki said. But the presidents qualification requirements are not your party registration. They are whether youre qualified to serve and whether you are aligned with the values of this administration.

Several of those called on to resign pushed back. Conway jabbed at Biden and said, "Im not resigning but you should. She went on in a statement to call it a disappointing but understandable effort to distract from the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, a rise in COVID-19 cases and a disappointing August jobs report.

Vought on Twitter posted the letter he received from Russell and responded: No. Its a three year term.

Jonathan Hiler, a Navy academy alumnus who served as director of legislative affairs for Vice President Mike Pence, said he was not resigning.

As an alum and former naval officer, I believe developing leaders capable of defending our countrys interests at sea  USNAs mission  is not something that should be consumed by partisan politics. Apparently, President Biden feels differently. @WhiteHouse, Hiler posted on Twitter.

Spicer, who works for the conservative news channel Newsmax, in his own social media posting criticized Biden for trying to terminate Trump appointees instead of "focusing on the stranded Americans left in #Afghanistan.

Later on Newsmax, Spicer accused Psaki of minimizing his military service and that of other veterans appointed by Trump to the boards. He said he intended to take legal action against the decision.
GREENWICH  The back-to-school season is in full swing in town, as students returned Wednesday to private schools in Greenwich.

A group of spirited seniors greeted the younger students at Sacred Heart Greenwich on Wednesday to kick off the return to school.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  Minnesota Sen. Amy Klobuchar announced Thursday that she has been treated for breast cancer that was found in February and the treatment went well.

Klobuchar, 61, tweeted that the cancer was detected during a routine mammogram, and eventually she had a lumpectomy to remove it. She said she completed radiation therapy in May amid a busy hearing schedule, including one treatment two days after her father died. A checkup in August found she was doing well. She told ABC's Good Morning America that she's feeling much better now.

For Democrats, Klobuchar's health update was a fresh reminder of their fragile hold on the Senate, which they control by a single vote. Klobuchar's announcement made no explicit statement on her future, but said the cancer gave me renewed purpose to my work.

Klobuchar said her cancer was stage 1A, meaning it had not spread beyond the breast. She said she felt fortunate to have caught it early because she had delayed her mammogram because of the pandemic.

Now they tell me that my chances of getting cancer again are the same as any other person, which is great, Klobuchar said on ABC. But I learned a lot through this year  about the importance of getting those exams and also the gratitude for all others that surrounded me and my family, my husband.

She also issued a plea for Americans not to delay their health screenings and noted that thousands of women have undetected breast cancer. She said her advice was to "get those screenings, go in, get a mammogram, get whatever health checkup that you should normally be getting."

Klobuchar is early in her third term. She was first elected in 2006 and easily won reelection twice against little-known opponents. Shes the daughter of well-known Minneapolis newsman Jim Klobuchar, who died in May, and Rose, a schoolteacher who died in 2010. Her grandfather was an iron miner in northern Minnesota.

Klobuchar long cultivated an image as a straight-shooting, pragmatist willing to work across the aisle with Republicans, making her one of the Senates most productive members at passing legislation.

The senator ran for president but dropped out before the 2020 Democratic convention as moderates lined up behind Joe Biden. She memorably announced her campaign during a snowstorm in 2019, at a park along the Mississippi River with the Minneapolis skyline in the background.

Klobuchar, a lawyer and the former chief prosecutor in Minnesotas largest county, currently chairs the powerful Senate Rules Committee, which is examining the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol.

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Associated Press writers Doug Glass in Minneapolis and Tom Strong in Washington contributed to this story.
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Mississippi is closing its only remaining parking garage field hospital set up to treat coronavirus patients during the delta variant surge, but it is still relying on out-of-state workers to help increase ICU capacity in state hospitals, officials said Wednesday.

Health officials also reported the state's seventh child death from the coronavirus since the start of the pandemic and raised alarms about a string of deaths in unvaccinated pregnant women. State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs said eight pregnant women with coronavirus have died over the past four weeks.

We do know that COVID is especially problematic and dangerous for pregnant women, Dobbs said.

The health officer said COVID can be deadly for babies in the womb, too. Very preliminary data collected by the Department of Health indicates that babies are twice as likely to die in the womb after 20 weeks in COVID-19 infected pregnant women than in women without the virus, he said.

Its been a real tragedy," he said.

Jim Craig, senior deputy for the Mississippi Department of Health and Director of Health Protection, said the state is seeing a small improvement in hospital bed availability, but ICU capacity continues to be very scarce.

The bed capacity for ICU space is effectively zero still in the state of Mississippi, Craig said. Craig said the Department of Health has applied to extend the support of federal partners working at the Jackson and Biloxi Veterans Affairs hospitals, the 23-person Department of Defense military team at the University of Mississippi Medical center and a group working on monoclonal antibody administration at the university.

A total of 1,660 people were hospitalized with coronavirus in Mississippi on Aug. 18, compared with 1,285 on Tuesday. A Johns Hopkins COVID-19 tracker showed that as of Tuesday, Mississippi had the ninth-highest COVID-19 rate in the U.S. The state had 79.5 new cases and 1.3 deaths per 100,000 residents.

Craig said the field hospital set up by Christian relief charity Samaritans Purse was in the process of decommissioning. A different field hospital on the University of Mississippi Medical Center campus set up with health care workers from the federal government was already decommissioned last month.

Craig said the field hospitals are closing because of the decrease in hospitalizations and the increase of health care workers coming in from out of state to support hospitals.

Its been a rough month and a half of the delta surge. It has really been stressful. Its overwhelmed by our health system, and its caused a lot of unnecessary deaths," Dobbs said. "Fortunately, we are starting to see an inflection point with somewhat of a decline in hospitalizations, and daily cases."

Dobbs said vaccine hesitancy continues to be a problem in the state. Mississippi is nearing 1.5 million  almost half the state's population  people who have received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine.

We are making some progress," he said. "... But we don't have near enough people in the state who are immune.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers said Mississippi was reporting its seventh pediatric death of the virus since the start of the pandemic  a child less than a year old.

However, Byers said the state is seeing a slight decrease in coronavirus cases in schools. Schools are required to self-report information on cases and students quarantined to the state. For the week of Aug. 30 through Sept. 3, 15,000 students were on quarantine, compared with 23,000 in the previous week and 28,000 in the week before that.

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Leah Willingham 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.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Robert Durst is a sick, old, defenseless man beaten up and demonized by prosecutors to cover up a lack of evidence against him, his lawyer said Thursday in closing arguments at the New York real estate heir's murder trial.

Attorney Dick DeGuerin told jurors not to be swayed by ghastly images of the body Durst dismembered in Texas and tossed out to sea, saying it was only meant to make them hate him.

DeGuerin conceded his client did look really bad after nearly three weeks of testimony, including nine days of punishing cross-examination that exposed several lies. He accused the prosecutor of beating up on a sick, old man who cant defend himself.

I wouldn't blame you after hearing what youve heard if you hate Bob Durst and believe hes a liar, DeGuerin said in Los Angeles Superior Court. Making Bob Durst a liar does not make him a killer.

Durst, 78, who sat hunched in a wheelchair as his lawyer spoke, has pleaded not guilty to murder in the point-blank shooting of Susan Berman in December 2000 at her Los Angeles home.

Prosecutors said Durst killed her as she planned to speak to authorities about how she provided a phony alibi for him when his wife went missing in New York in 1982.

DeGuerin said prosecutors failed to prove how, when and where Kathie Durst was killed, though he said circumstantial evidence indicates she is probably dead. Her body has never been found, and no one has been charged with a crime in connection with her disappearance.

Robert Durst said he put his wife on a train bound for New York City after a weekend at their lakeside home in Westchester County and never saw or heard from her again. He has admitted lying about having cocktails with neighbors that night and speaking with his wife by phone after she reached their Manhattan penthouse.

DeGuerin said there is no credible evidence to support the prosecution theory that Berman had impersonated Kathie Durst the next day to phone in sick at the medical school she attended. Prosecutors said the call made it appear Kathie Durst was alive after she was last seen by her husband.

If you remove the emotions that the prosecution has played upon that Bob Durst is a bad guy and Bob Durst lies and that Bob Durst will lie about anything and look at what the evidence or lack of evidence is, then you see theres no evidence, DeGuerin said.

During his many days on the stand, Durst said he had lied under oath and would lie to get out of trouble. He said he had not killed Berman or his wife, but said he would lie if he had done so.

DeGuerin said it was like the trick question: Have you quit beating your wife?

Whats a good answer to that? DeGuerin said. The problem is the false premise: beating your wife. If you had killed Susan, would you tell us? Its a false premise.

Although Durst is only on trial in Berman's killing, prosecutors presented evidence he killed his wife to provide the motive for killing Berman  a key witness. Several of Berman's friends testified she either told them Durst admitted killing his wife or she helped cover his tracks.

Prosecutors have also introduced evidence from a Galveston, Texas, trial in which Durst was acquitted of murder.

DeGuerin successfully defended Durst in the 2001 killing of Morris Black. Durst testified that Black pulled a gun on him and was shot during a struggle for the weapon. He was convicted of disposing of evidence for chopping up Blacks body and dumping it in Galveston Bay.

DeGuerin accused prosecutors of trying to inflame the jury by dredging up the Texas case, particularly displaying gruesome images of body parts that washed ashore.

The prosecution is trying to get a do-over of that trial, DeGuerin said.

Prosecutors said Black was killed because he discovered Durst's identity while he hid out disguised as a mute woman because he feared he was going to be charged with killing his wife in New York.

DeGuerin said that made no sense under the prosecution's theory. Berman was the witness who could connect him to Kathie Durst's death, and she was killed nine months earlier.

The theory of the prosecution is that Morris Black found out that Bob Durst was Bob Durst, DeGeurin said. But Bob Durst didnt have anything to worry about anymore if you accept the prosecution theory that Bob Dursts motive for killing Susan Berman was to shut her up.

DeGuerin did little to minimize or explain what a prosecutor said was the most damning piece of evidence against Durst  the so-called cadaver note directing police to Berman's lifeless body.

In interviews for a documentary film, Durst denied writing the note that he said only the killer could have written. But he was caught in the lie when the makers of The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst confronted him with an envelope he sent Berman a year earlier with identical handwriting and Beverly Hills misspelled as Beverley on both.

You can ignore everything else in this case, Balian said. The defendant has stipulated, I wrote the cadaver note and envelope that only the killer could have written. 

Durst testified that after discovering Berman's body, he wanted police to find her but didnt want anyone to know he had been in her house because he feared he would be suspected of killing her.

He acknowledged that even he had difficulty imagining he could have written the note without killing Berman.

Its very difficult to believe, to accept, that I wrote the letter and did not kill Susan Berman, Durst testified.

Balian said it was one of the truest things Durst said amid a ton of lies.
BOSTON (AP)  Students have returned to classrooms in Boston and Providence as the school year got underway in both cities Thursday.

In Boston, in-person learning resumed for students in grades 1 through 12, while kindergarten and pre-K classes will begin on Monday.

For some students, it will be their first time in a classroom since spring 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic forced classes online.

Many schools in other parts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts have already resumed classes. Boston and Providence are the largest districts in their respective states, serving more than 75,000 students combined.

COVID-19 continues to pose challenges this year, as both Boston and Providence struggle with employment shortages that threatened to disrupt the start of classes.

Nearly 200 teachers resigned or retired earlier this year in Providence, joining more than 100 who left their positions in 2020. Gov. Dan McKee has asked retired teachers to consider rejoining the workforce to reduce the demand.

In Boston, school officials warned of possible delays on Thursday because of a shortage of school bus drivers. Last week, the district was short more than 60 drivers, prompting a union representing bus drivers to urge the district to postpone the start of classes.

Schools across the nation have been grappling with driver shortages amid a labor market that has been tightened by the pandemic. Districts in some areas are offering drivers cash bonuses as schools work to reopen amid surging numbers of COVID-19 cases.
KABUL, Afghanistan  The interior ministry of the new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of demonstrations that have brought heavy-handed assaults on protesters.

The minister has issued an order to end all protests in the country  unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.

Its unlikely the women who have been leading near daily protest demanding their rights from the countrys hardline Islamic rulers will be allowed to protest under the new rules. In the words of the ministry's statement: It is announced to all citizens not to attempt at the present time to hold any demonstrations under any name whatsoever.

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MORE ON AFGHANISTAN:

 Taliban name caretaker Cabinet that pays homage to old guard

 US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression

 Blinken and Austin to visit Gulf to address postwar stresses

 Taliban say they took Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province

 Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

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KABUL, Afghanistan  Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has taken to Twitter to say his flight from Kabul on Aug. 15 was done to save Afghanistans capital from bloodshed. He says his security personnel advised the secret departure, which opened the gates of the city to a Taliban takeover.

Ghani also denies widespread allegations of corruption as well as charges that he left the country with millions of dollars. He says there should be an independent investigation.

Ghanis sudden departure has been widely criticized both in Afghanistan and abroad. Washington blamed Ghanis flight and the governments collapse for a Taliban takeover ahead of a negotiated deal.

Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.

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WASHINGTON  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security says about 60,000 people have arrived in the country since Aug. 17 from Afghanistan as part of the evacuation formally known as Operation Allies Welcome.

DHS said in the latest updated released Wednesday that 17% of those arrivals are U.S. citizens and permanent residents who were in Afghanistan when the government there fell to the Taliban.

The remaining 83% are a mix of people. They include those with Special Immigrant Visas, for people who worked as interpreters or in some other capacity for the U.S. or NATO. There are also other visa holders as well as applicants for visas who have not yet completed their processing. The remainder are various types of vulnerable Afghans who would be threatened under the Taliban, such as women and human rights advocates.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas says a small number of evacuees have been prevented from entering the U.S. through multi-layered security vetting but he declines to provide specific numbers of provide details about the cases.

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UNITED NATIONS  The United Nations womens agency in Afghanistan says every day it is receiving reports of rollbacks on womens rights. The complaints range from women barred from going to work without a male guardian or even leaving their homes to attacks on centers helping women who flee violence and on girls and coeducational schools.

Alison Davidian is the deputy Afghan representative for UN Women and she said in a video briefing from Kabul that the lack of clarity of the Talibans position on womens rights has generated incredible fear -- and this fear is palpable across the country.

She says UN Women is receiving reports of violations through its extensive network of women, civil society organizations, women leaders and human rights defenders. She the agencys Afghan operation hopes to reopen its offices in five provinces once the security situation improves because Afghan women have never needed us more."

Davidian says the situation for women differs from province to province and she urges the Taliban to show that it governs for all Afghans and that it has changed and will protect and promote the full spectrum of womens rights.

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RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is pressing the Taliban to allow charter flights carrying would-be evacuees to leave Mazar-e-Sharif.

Blinken said Wednesday that the Taliban arent permitting the flights departure because they claim that some of the passengers dont have the required documentation.

He added: While there are limits to what we can do without personnel on the ground, without an airport with normal security and procedures in place, we are working to do everything in our power to support those flights and to get them off the ground.

He said those efforts include working with advocates and lawmakers to help coordinate their efforts and offer guidance, and helping to arrange landing rights and liaise with other countries in the region on overflights.

Blinken said: Weve made clear to all parties, weve made clear to the Taliban, that these charters need to be able to depart. He said the U.S. will continue to press the Taliban.

He said some groups claiming to have all documentation and arrangements locked down unfortunately dont -- often for good reason, but this creates further complications.

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WASHINGTON  White House press secretary Jen Psaki is defending the White Houses continued engagement with a Taliban government that includes an FBI most wanted terrorist and no women named to top positions.

Psaki says: Should we not talk to the people who are overseeing Afghanistan and just leave it and not get the rest of the American citizens out?

She added that the U.S. and international community are watching as it decides whether it will formally recognize the Taliban government.

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RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany  U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is telling the Taliban that any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned after the group named an interim government.

Blinken spoke after he and his German counterpart on Wednesday hosted a virtual meeting of ministers from 22 countries as well as NATO and the European Union.

Blinken reiterated the cautious initial U.S. response to the Talibans naming Tuesday of an interim government line-up.

The new government stacked with veterans of their hard-line rule from the 1990s and the 20-year battle against the U.S.-led coalition.

Blinken said that the government and the Taliban will be judged by their actions.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistan says it will send food and medicine to the people of neighboring Afghanistan.

In a statement Wednesday, the Foreign Ministry said the first shipment of humanitarian aid will be dispatched to Afghanistan by three C-130 planes.

The announcement comes a day after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan.

The ministry said additional supplies of humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan would continue through the countrys land routes.

Afghanistan is suffering under a long-running economic crisis that has worsened in recent months. Near daily flights from Qatar bring in humanitarian aid, but the needs are massive.

Pakistan also urged the international community to help the people of Afghanistan to avert a possible humanitarian crisis there.

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PARIS  France says the Talibans new government does not meet the demands of the international community.

Their actions do not match their words, French Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Agnes von der Muhll told an online briefing Wednesday.

She said France and other countries had demanded the safe departure of Afghans who wish to leave, free access to humanitarian aid, the total severing of relations with terrorist groups and respect for human rights, especially womens rights.

We can only note that these demands have not been met, she said

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BERLIN  Germanys foreign minister has responded skeptically to the Talibans announcement of an interim government line-up for Afghanistan.

Heiko Maas released a statement Wednesday, a day after the Taliban announced an all-male interim government. The Cabinet is stacked with veterans of their hard-line rule from the 1990s and the 20-year battle against the U.S.-led coalition. Germany was a major troop provider for that alliance.

Maas said his country is ready to provide humanitarian aid via the United Nations and will continue to speak to the Taliban to secure the departure from Afghanistan of former employees and others.

He added that any commitment beyond that will depend on the Talibans behavior.

Maas said: The announcement of an interim government without the participation of other groups and yesterdays violence against female demonstrators and journalists in Kabul are not signals that make us optimistic about that.

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COPENHAGEN, Denmark  The Norwegian ambassador to Iran says the Taliban have taken over the Norwegian Embassy in Kabul.

Ambassador Sigvald Hauge wrote on Twitter on Wednesday that the Taliban say they will return it to us later and added but first wine bottles are to be smashed and childrens books destroyed.

Norway vacated its diplomatic post in the Afghan capital with the help of fellow Scandinavian neighbor Denmark before the Taliban took over the city

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistans foreign minister has urged the international community to help prevent a humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi was addressing a virtual meeting of foreign ministers from countries neighboring Afghanistan. It was attended by his counterparts from China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

The meeting took place a day after the Taliban announced an all-male interim government for Afghanistan. In his televised remarks, Qureshi said that Pakistan had noted the development.

He added that since Kabuls takeover by the Taliban, much dreaded bloodshed has not occurred, and the prospect of a protracted conflict and civil war seems to have been averted. Qureshi said that so far, a much-feared exodus of refugees has also not taken place.

The situation remains complex and fluid in Afghanistan however and it requires discarding old lenses, developing new insights, and proceeding with a realistic and pragmatic approach.

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BERLIN  Germanys Foreign Minister Heiko Maas and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken are set to meet at Ramstein U.S. Air Base for talks on Afghanistan on Wednesday.

The two foreign ministers are first set to talk bilaterally and later hold a virtual meeting with other foreign ministers, the German foreign ministry said in a statement.

Maas praised the close cooperation with the U.S. during the evacuation efforts of international and local Afghans from the country in recent weeks, and said that in the next phase we want to continue to cooperate and coordinate, especially in regard of the new rulers in Kabul.

Maas warned that a threefold humanities crisis was looming in Afghanistan due to hunger, the stop of aid from international relief groups, and the volatile political situation with the new Taliban regime in Kabul.

Ramstein has become a turnstile for the evacuation for people from Afghanistan with around 34,000 flown for layovers to the U.S. base. Some 22,000 evacuees have already left the base for the United States or other locations.

Germany has relocated more than 4,000 people from Afghanistan so far.

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ISLAMABAD  Pakistan is hosting a virtual meeting of foreign ministers from countries neighboring Afghanistan to discuss the situation there.

A foreign ministry statement said Wednesdays meeting will be attended by China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Pakistans Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will preside over the meeting, which aims to work together for the shared objective of a peaceful and stable Afghanistan, which is essential to forge strong economic links.

The development comes a day after the Taliban announced an all-male interim government for Afghanistan, stacked with veterans from their hard-line rule in the 1990s and the 20-year battle against the U.S.-led coalition.

So far Pakistan has not commented on the formation of the interim government.

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SYDNEY  Parts of Australias New South Wales state will come out of lockdown Saturday and the government plans to ease restrictions in Sydney once 70% of its residents aged 16 and older are fully vaccinated.

The government on Thursday outlined plans to ease restrictions in Sydney, which has been locked down since June, but it also warned that COVID-19 hospitalizations wont plateau until next month.

Coastal areas north of Sydney, the Murrumbidgee region south of the city and the Riverina to the west will be released from the statewide lockdown Saturday.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian says Australias most populous state will exit lockdown in a cautious and staged way as vaccination rates rise. In New South Wales, 43% of the population aged 16 and older is fully vaccinated.

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MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 Idaho patients in hospital halls amid COVID rationed care

 Ida and COVID-19: Twin-demic slams Louisiana hospitals

 WHO chief urges halt to booster shots for rest of the year

 COVID-19 surge in the US: The summer of hope ends in gloom

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 Read AP coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.

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HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

HONOLULU  The state of Hawaii is launching a program that will allow people to use their smart phones to prove they have been vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The move comes shortly before Honolulu and Maui begin instituting vaccine requirements for patrons of restaurants and other businesses.

State officials say people who have been vaccinated in Hawaii will be able to upload a photo of their paper vaccination card to the Safe Travels Hawaii website to create a digital vaccination record. The website will crosscheck the information with data in the states vaccination database.

Diners may show the record to restaurants in lieu of their paper vaccination card.

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WELLINGTON, New Zealand  New Zealand is buying an extra 250,000 doses of the Pfizer vaccine from Spain as it tries to keep a surge in vaccination rates going during an outbreak of the coronavirus in Auckland.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says the doses will arrive Friday and she has also got a second, larger deal in the works with another country.

New Zealand was slow to get its vaccination rollout going but has been catching up to other developed since the outbreak of the delta variant began last month. About 55% of New Zealanders have received at least one dose.

New daily community cases have been decreasing and were down to 13 Thursday. Auckland remains in a strict lockdown and health authorities try to extinguish the outbreak entirely.

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CARSON CITY, Nev.  All 17 counties in Nevada will be subject to an indoor mask mandate by the end of the week.

Rural Eureka County is the states only jurisdiction currently not subject to such a requirement, but its report of high transmission of coronavirus infections for the second week in a row have triggered the mandate to take effect Friday.

The reintroduction of masks and the debut of vaccine requirements in venues like sporting events, conventions and some schools has been met with resistance across the state. In the Las Vegas area, Clark County School District Board of Trustees President Linda Cavazos has received death threats since the district approved a requirement for employees to get vaccinations.

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SACRAMENTO, Calif.  California lawmakers have shelved bills aimed at requiring workers to either be vaccinated against the coronavirus or get weekly virus tests to keep their jobs.

One measure by Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks would have required all workers to either get the coronavirus vaccine or submit to weekly testing. Another bill by Assemblyman Evan Low sought to make sure state law protected businesses that choose to require their workers to be vaccinated.

Neither bill will advance this year.

On Wednesday, more than a thousand people gathered at the state Capitol to protest vaccine mandates. Organizers say they wanted to let lawmakers know they oppose the bills.

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ATLANTA  Atlantas public safety net hospital is the latest to temporarily cancel elective surgeries, saying it is overrun with COVID-19 patients.

Grady Memorial Hospital CEO John Haupert said Wednesday that the hospital was inundated with patients over Labor Day.

Some other Georgia hospitals have already cancelled elective procedures due to the surge in pandemic cases. More than 5,900 people are in Georgia hospitals with COVID-19.

Gov. Brian Kemp has rejected urgings from two Georgia congressmen that he order elective surgeries be postponed in all Georgia hospitals.

Kemp says the congressmen could better help by persuading the federal government to limit how much staffing companies can charge to provide nurses and other workers to supplement hospital capacity. He also says they should demand clearer federal guidance on plans to provide COVID-19 booster shots.

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COLUMBIA, S.C.  Some South Carolina cities are bringing back indoor mask requirements as the states coronavirus outbreak rivals the height of the pandemic last winter before vaccines were widely available.

The cities of Columbia, West Columbia and Cayce in central South Carolina have all adopted requirements that people wear masks in indoor public places except while eating and a few other exceptions.

South Carolina has never had a statewide mask mandate but it allowed local governments to do so in 2020. Most of the mandates faded away after Gov. Henry McMaster ended a 14-month COVID-19 state of emergency in June when the state was seeing about 150 new cases a day.

Now, South Carolina is seeing about 5,400 new coronavirus cases a day, similar to the pandemics peak in January.

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JACKSON, Miss. -- Mississippi is closing its only remaining field hospital for treating COVID-19 patients during the delta variant surge, but it is still relying on out-of-state workers to help increase ICU capacity in state hospitals.

A state health officials said Wednesday that the field hospital set up by Christian relief charity Samaritans Purse is in the process of decommissioning. A field hospital on the University of Mississippi Medical Center campus set up with health care workers from the federal government was decommissioned last month.

The official says Mississippi is seeing a small improvement in hospital bed availability, but ICU capacity continues to be very scarce.

The state had 1,660 people hospitalized for COVID-19 on Aug. 18, compared with 1,285 on Tuesday.

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CHARLESTON, W.Va.  West Virginia health officials say some rural hospitals have reached their critical bed capacities as coronavirus cases and deaths continue to surge statewide.

They are pleading with the public to avoid unnecessary ER visits to let hospitals focus their resources on treating COVID-19 patients.

There were 813 COVID-19 patients hospitalized statewide Wednesday, just below the record 818 on Jan. 5 when vaccination efforts were starting. There are 252 virus patients in ICUs and 132 patients on ventilators  both all-time highs.

The states coronavirus expert says our hospitals are being stressed in ways that they havent been stressed before.

In southern West Virginia, for instance, Princeton Community Hospital has no ICU beds available due to an increase in COVID-related patients.

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BATON ROUGE, La.  Louisianas hospitals, crammed with coronavirus patients and Hurricane Ida-related emergency visits, are starting to see a bit of much-needed relief from the latest surge of COVID-19.

Hospitalizations from the coronavirus have been consistently falling over the last three weeks after breaking records and reaching 3,022 patients on Aug. 18.

The state health department reports that that number has now dropped to 1,895. It's the first time it has been below 2,000 since the end of July.

Public health officials caution that hospitals continue to struggle with medical needs tied to cleanup and recovery from Ida.

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ANNAPOLIS, Md.  Maryland is authorizing COVID-19 booster shots for all residents 65 and older who live in congregate care settings.

Gov. Larry Hogan says residents in nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, residential drug treatment centers and developmentally disabled group homes are eligible.

Hogan told a news conference Wednesday that boosters can now be immediately administered.

While the federal government has yet to say when most people should get booster shots, Hogan said the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has approved them for people who are immunocompromised, and a Maryland study indicates many in those facilities are immunocompromised.

He said the state is following CDC guidance but broadening the definition.

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DENVER  A Colorado countys public health department director says officials took three mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinics off the streets after workers were harassed while providing inoculations over Labor Day weekend.

Jefferson County Public Health executive director Dawn Comstock says staff at a mobile vaccine clinic in Gilpin County were yelled at and threatened by people passing by, The Denver Post reports.

Comstock says a driver ran over and destroyed signs put up around the vaccine clinics tent.

In a separate incident, someone also threw an unidentified liquid at a nurse working a different mobile clinic in front of a restaurant.

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.  A Florida judge has ruled the state cannot enforce its ban on mask mandates in public schools while an appeals court sorts out whether the ban is legal.

Leon County Circuit Judge John C. Cooper lifted an automatic stay of his decision last week that Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis and state education officials exceeded their authority by imposing the blanket ban through executive order.

Cooper says the overwhelming evidence before him in a lawsuit by parents challenging the ban shows wearing masks does provide some protection for children in crowded school settings  particularly those under 12, who are not yet able to get vaccinated.

Were not in normal times. We are in a pandemic, Cooper said during a remote hearing. We have a variant that is more infectious and dangerous to children than the one we had last year.

The case next goes before the 1st District Court of Appeal in Tallahassee.

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TUCSON, Ariz.  Arizonas second most populous county is prodding its workforce to get COVID-19 vaccinations by requiring employees who refuse the shots to pay more for their health insurance.

The Pima County Board of Supervisors voted to make unvaccinated employees lose discounts amounting to about $1,570 annually. Supervisor Steve Christy voted in opposition, saying the move was wrong and its illegal to penalize workers who choose to not get vaccinated.

The board previously authorized a $300 bonus plus three days of paid leave for county workers who have been vaccinated.

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MADRID  Spanish health authorities have authorized the use of an additional shot of a COVID-19 vaccine only for people with suppressed immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients.

The governments board of experts deemed it was too early to recommend a booster shot for the population at large. Health Minister Carolina Darias says authorities will be studying other groups that could benefit from a third shot.

Nearly 73% of Spain's 34 million people are fully vaccinated.

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WASHINGTON  The summer was supposed to mark Americas independence from COVID-19 but it's ending with the U.S. firmly under the command of the coronavirus, with deaths per day back up to levels in March.

The delta variant is filling hospitals, sickening alarming numbers of children and driving coronavirus deaths in some places to the highest levels of the entire pandemic. School systems that reopened their classrooms are abruptly switching back to remote learning because of outbreaks.

The U.S. recorded 26,800 deaths and more than 4.2 million infections in August. The number of monthly positive cases was the fourth-highest total since the start of the pandemic.

The U.S. is averaging over 150,000 new cases per day, levels not seen since January. Deaths are close to 1,500 per day, up more than a third since late August. Overall, the outbreak is still well below the all-time peaks reached over the winter when deaths topped out at 3,400 a day and new cases at 250,000 per day.

The U.S. death toll stands at more than 650,000, with one major forecast model projecting it will top 750,000 by Dec. 1.

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HONOLULU  A resort in the famed tourist mecca of Waikiki will be the first in Hawaii to require proof of COVID-19 vaccination for all employees and guests.

Starting Oct. 15, Alohilani Resort will require employees, patrons and guests to show proof theyre fully vaccinated. The requirement will be in place for the six other Waikiki properties owned or operated by the Highgate real estate investment and hospitality management company.

Hotel officials say its the right thing to do as Hawaii struggles with a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations because of the highly contagious delta variant.

There was an average of 706 newly confirmed daily cases across Hawaii between Aug. 30 and Sept. 5, according to the state Department of Health. Hawaiis vaccination rate stands at 64%.
United Airlines says that more than half its employees who weren't vaccinated last month have gotten their shots since the company announced that vaccines would be required.

The airline's 67,000 U.S.-based employees face a Sept. 27 deadline for getting vaccinated. United said Wednesday, however, that employees whose bids for exemptions based on medical reasons or religious beliefs are denied will get five more weeks to get vaccinated.

After that, the airline said, they will face termination or unpaid leave.

Kirk Limacher, United's vice president of human resources, made the statement about vaccinations Wednesday in memos to employees that spell out how United will handle requests for exemptions.

United declined to say exactly how many employees have recently been vaccinated, what percentage of the workforce is now vaccinated, or how many workers requested an exemption. The airline said it will have enough workers to operate its schedule this fall and into the holidays.

The airline said that in most cases, employees who refuse to get vaccinated won't be allowed into the workplace starting Oct. 2.

United says requests for medical exemptions will be judged by medical staffers including nurses, while requests for waivers based on religious beliefs will be handled by personnel-office employees.

The process for handling workers whose exemptions are approved will vary slightly depending on the employee's job.

Workers who routinely come in contact with passengers, such as flight attendants, gate agents and pilots, and whose exemptions are approved will face indefinite unpaid leave starting Oct. 2. They won't be allowed back on the job until the pandemic meaningfully recedes, according to one of the memos.

Employees who rarely deal with passengers  examples include baggage handlers and mechanics  and whose exemptions are approved will also be put on leave, but only until the airline comes up with a plan for weekly testing and mandatory mask-wearing for them.

Headquarters employees whose exemptions are approved will be placed on leave until United decides on safety measures, including whether the person needs to come into the office.

In explaining the rules to employees, United cites statistics on the state of the pandemic in the U.S., where new infections are at their highest level since March and likely to rise into the fall as more people are hospitalized. Most of the cases, hospitalizations and deaths are occurring among unvaccinated people, the memos said.

Chicago-based United has taken the strongest pro-vaccination stance among U.S. airlines. Delta Air Lines says it will levy a $200 monthly surcharge on unvaccinated employees who are covered by the companys health plan. Others including American Airlines say they will cut off paid leave for unvaccinated workers who contract COVID-19.
GREENWICH  A top official at Greenwich Hospital pushed Wednesday for more residents to get the coronavirus vaccine, saying that 90 percent of its current COVID-positive patients have not been vaccinated.

Its really important to note that were continuing to see a majority of our patients are unvaccinated, hospital president Diane Kelly said during the towns weekly COVID update. My message is for people to really consider getting their vaccine and maintaining precautions when they can.

As of Wednesday, Greenwich Hospital had 10 COVID-positive patients, with one in the intensive care unit on a ventilator, Kelly said. Of the 10 COVID patients, nine had not received any kind of a vaccination, she said.

The number of patients is consistent with what Greenwich Hospital has seen in recent weeks, when it has been treating nine to 11 COVID patients at a time, she said.

This is a little bit of a plateau, and were holding steady, Kelly said.

Vaccinations must be a priority for the good of public health, she said.

The towns goal is to get its vaccination levels above 90 percent, First Selectman Fred Camillo said during the update.

As of last week, nearly 85 percent of eligible residents had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and nearly 78 percent were fully vaccinated, Camillo said.

Were making our way there, he said, adding that it is important for everyone to keep their guard up and be careful about taking COVID-19 precautions.

Town Director of Health Caroline Baisley said on Wednesday that there have been 56 new COVID-19 cases among town residents over the past seven days. That is a decrease in the curve as there had been 69 new cases the week prior and 81 the week before that.

Camillo expressed optimism that the mask mandate he put in place for all buildings in town, regardless of a persons vaccination status, is working to mitigate the spread of the virus.

The new school year began Sept. 1 at the Greenwich Public Schools, where everyone is required to wear masks. There have been only limited days in class due to days off for Labor Day and Rosh Hashanah as well as one day off due to Hurricane Ida, but there has been no sign of an uptick of cases due to the reopening of schools or recent large outdoor events such as the Greenwich Town Party.

Under the town policy, people inside all buildings, both town and privately owned, are required to wear masks when social distancing is impossible.

It looks like our numbers are very good, Camillo said. Weve had a number of events the last few weeks and it doesnt appear that theyve had an effect so far. They have mostly been outside events.  It all seems to be going in the right direction from my vantage point here.

The town will continue to monitor the numbers for any increase in the coming days and weeks, he said.

Weve been saying all along that the month of September would be a concern because of all the people coming back from vacation and going back to school and all the outdoor events  but so far so good, Camillo said.

The Yale New Haven Health System, which includes Greenwich Hospital, is always going to be watching these trends, Kelly said. There has been no evidence of a spike, she said, but the health system is continuing to track the COVID-19 cases.

Were heading into the second week of September, school has started and vacations are over, she said. Were not seeing a major spike, so Im feeling optimistic. But what Im not optimistic about is what Im seeing is the people without vaccines who are left needing treatment.

Greenwich Hospital is also providing booster shots for fully vaccinated people who are immunocompromised and are at higher risk to the virus.

The town has posted information about vaccines and COVID testing at www.greenwichct.gov/1621/Coronavirus-COVID-19.

kborsuk@greenwichtime.com
GREENWICH  Ahead of this month's sentencing, lawyers for Javier Da Silva, who pleaded guilty in the death of a 24-year-old woman and dumped her body in Greenwich 2019, say he is remorseful for the crime.

According to a pre-sentencing report filed this week by his court-appointed lawyers, Da Silva is taking responsibility for the death of Valerie Reyes, a bookstore worker from New Rochelle, N.Y., whom he briefly dated.

At the outset, it must be noted that neither Mr. Da Silva nor his attorneys are attempting to minimize the seriousness of his crimes. He understands the significant effect his conduct has and continues to have on Ms. Reyess family and acknowledges that this court must sentence him to a substantial term of imprisonment, wrote his defense lawyers, Mark DeMarco and Jason Ser.

Da Silva, 26, is facing 30 years to life in prison after pleading guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death in Federal District Court in New York on Feb. 4, 2020, a year to the day that Reyes body was found in a suitcase off Glenville Road in Greenwich. She died by asphyxiation.

Mr. Da Silva has expressed true, heartfelt remorse for the crime that he has committed. ... In fact, the greatest remorse he feels is for the pain and suffering caused to Ms. Reyes and her family, his defense lawyers said.

According to the sentencing documents, Da Silva came to the U.S. in 2017 to flee the economic collapse that his native nation of Venezuela endured. His father drove a truck and managed a service station, and his mother worked as a hairstylist, according to the memorandum, and Da Silva attended three colleges in Venezuela but did not earn a degree.

In order to pay for his plane ticket to the United States, his father sold the family television and Javier borrowed the balance from his aunt, the court papers state.

Since arriving in the United States, overstaying a visa, Da Silva worked for several companies doing disaster cleanup work and was most recently employed as a cashier and cook for a restaurant in New York City, the court papers state. He was also a heavy user of marijuana and condensed cannabis products, his lawyers said.

The lawyers included a number of testimonials from Da Silvas family. Mr. Da Silvas family members extol him as an decent, generous, kind, sincere, devoted and intelligent young man, his lawyers wrote, aiming to seek a lighter sentence from Judge Vincent Briccetti on Sept. 23.

The defense submission did not explain what motivation or rationale led Da Silva to go to Reyes apartment in New Rochelle the night she disappeared in January 2019, or its violent outcome.

Federal prosecutors say he struck her violently, bound her with tape and placed her in a suitcase that he later drove to Greenwich. The federal authorities also said a financial motive was tied in with the killing  he used her debit card on various occasions to withdraw approximately $5,350 in cash from Reyes bank account, and he also sold an iPad belonging to Reyes in the days following her death. He was arrested without incident at his residence in Queens on Feb. 12, 2019, the day before Reyes funeral Mass in New Rochelle.

Reyes body was found by DPW workers in Greenwich who spotted the suitcase off the side of lower Glenville Road. She had been reported missing by her family in the days before.

Federal prosecutors are expected to file their own pre-sentencing memorandum next week.

Briccetti will pass down the sentence in Federal District Court in White Plains, N.Y. Da Silva was being held at the Westchester County Jail in Valhalla, N.Y., until sentencing, when he will be transferred to a federal correctional facility.

His sentencing has been repeatedly postponed due to complications to the criminal justice system imposed by the coronavirus pandemic.

rmarchant@greenwichtime.com
Today Google has outed the fifth and final public beta build of Android 12 for supported Pixel devices. This has "release candidate" status, and the next build after it will be the final one that goes out to all of the supported Pixels out there, not just those enrolled in the Beta program.

This is also the first beta that you can install on the newly released Pixel 5a, because that's just gone on sale. If you have one and want to run the fifth Android 12 beta on it, you just have to enroll it in the Android Beta program by going to this page. Once you do that, you'll receive an over-the-air update with Android 12 Beta 5.

Google Pixel 5a

If you were on the beta track before, the over-the-air update to the latest build is already available. If you haven't yet received the notification on your Pixel, go to Settings > System > System update and manually check - you may have to press the "check for update" button twice but you will get it. Unlike Google's "stable" releases, this one isn't staggered in any way, it's available now worldwide to all of the handsets enrolled in the Beta Program.

The build number is SPB5.210812.002 and the update size varies according to which device you're using. On our office Pixel 4 XL that was already on the previous beta, it was a 131MB download, but your mileage will definitely vary on this one.

With Beta 4 released last month Android 12 already reached what Google calls "platform stability", so all app-facing surfaces are final. Beta 5 packs in "the latest fixes and optimizations", which hopefully means more bugs have been ironed out (there were many on the previous build still).

The official Android 12 release is coming next, Google says it's "just a few weeks away" at this point.

Source
Defendant George Chambers Jr. appears before Superior Court of Guam Judge Vernon Perez for his sentencing hearing at the Guam Judicial Center July 6.
The Contractors Licensing Board voted on Wednesday to fine contractor Samsung E&C America Inc. $25.5 million over erosion and sediment control violations that occurred in the construction of the Mangilao Solar Project.

Samsung E&C was contracted to build the solar project by the owner, Korea Electric Power Company. Both are now being sued by the Office of the Attorney General in relation to the project.

Licensing board investigator Nida Bailey told the board on Wednesday that a representative of Samsung E&C admitted during an Aug. 10 meeting that the contractor had failed to implement the approved erosion control plan.

Erosion control plans were included in the design for the solar project, according to board Executive Director Cecil Orsini, but were not implemented before construction began.

In any project, all environmental control measures should be in place before any work is done, he said. It was the main reason for the board failing the contractor in their investigation, Orsini said.

According to Bailey, a number of ponding basins that were a part of the erosion control plan were still under construction by the time the board began conducting their investigation. Samsung E&C told the board that the total cost for erosion control and drainage was $1,137,881, Bailey reported.

Guams real property law allows the contractors license board to fine contractors who break the law, and civil penalties for the alleged violations in Mangilao range from $200 to 50% of the projects value.

The total cost of the project is $200 million, but the fine is based on 50% of a $51 million permit for the embankment, tilling, earthing and grubbing and erosion control measures.

Samsung E&C has 15 days after the citation is issued to come back and plead their case.

At any point in time, they could have done this, they should have done it, board member Matt Cruz stated.
On Thursday night, the governors office confirmed one more COVID-19-related death on Guam.

The patient was a 54-year-old man who died at 8:03 p.m. Sept. 8 at Guam Memorial Hospital. The patient was vaccinated but had multiple underlying health conditions. He tested positive on arrival.

A renewed commitment to keep each other safe and mitigate against the spread is the best way to pay tribute and honor each life lost to this deadly virus, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said.

Guams COVID death toll is now 155.

New cases

The Department of Public Health and Social Services also recorded 215 new cases of COVID-19 out of 1,197 tests performed Sept. 8.

Of those cases, 64 were identified through contact tracing.

There are 12,034 officially reported cases, with 2,549 cases in active isolation.

There are 76 people hospitalized for COVID-19. Most of those hospitalized, 43, were at Guam Memorial Hospital, including four people in intensive care and one on a ventilator. Twenty-two of the 43 werent vaccinated. There were 30 hospitalized at Guam Regional Medical City, including three people in intensive care and one on a ventilator; 22 werent vaccinated.

Naval Hospital Guam recorded three hospitalizationzs, according to the Joint Information Center.

The CAR Score is 43.1.

Unvaccinated

According to territorial epidemiologist Dr. Ann Pobutsky, the current surge is being driven by people aged 18-39, mainly unvaccinated.

Theyre partying, they dont care, theyre not going to wear a mask, she said.

The number of COVID-19 cases among unvaccinated people is six-times higher than among the unvaccinated in 2021. The majority of cases in 2021 and recent cases are among unvaccinated, younger CHamorus, Pobutsky stated.

Higher vaccination rates among older age groups did seem to be protecting them from the surge in cases this time around, Pobutsky said, but older people might have behaviors that are setting them apart. Theyre less risky. Theyre scared to go out.

Breakthrough cases among people fully immunized against COVID-19 at least two weeks before testing positive were also on the rise, according to Public Healths report.

Public Health public information officer Janela Carrera on Wednesday said that between Aug. 1 and Aug. 29 about 32% of people who tested positive were breakthrough cases.

Dead on arrival

In new trend, a number of COVID-19 deaths are people who are dead on arrival at the islands hospitals.

Between May 3 and Sept. 8, almost two-thirds of the COVID-19 deaths  11 of 17 cases  were dead on arrival with cardiac arrest at Guam hospitals. The pattern was observed mainly during the August surge, but apparent since May 2021, Pobutsky said.

A John Doe died on arrival at GMH Tuesday, but Public Health has to await the death certificate for more information.

It could be a combination; we do know that COVID does affect people with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, if youre old, Pobutsky said.
Children wont be returning to face-to-face learning Monday, according to Adelup.

Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero was expected to sign an executive order Thursday to reauthorize in-person learning. The plan was to allow schools to open Sept. 13

Based on the latest report of positive cases from last night and a high preliminary case count tracking for this evening, in-person learning will remain suspended on strong recommendation from the Surgeon Cell and (the Department of Public Health and Social Services), said Krystal Paco-San Agustin, the governors spokeswoman.

The governor met with school leadership Thursday afternoon, Paco-San Agustin said, and more updates would be provided as soon as they became available.

Public Health Director Art San Agustin said last Friday that there were no confirmed transmissions inside the school system when kids returned to face-to-face learning. Officials stated the closure of schools was based on the rising number of cases in the community.

Guam hit a record number of positive cases in one day Tuesday, when 325 people tested positive for COVID-19.

Child cases

Positive case rates for COVID-19 in children under the age of 18 have gone up in the islands most recent surge of cases, compared to the surge that occurred around August of last year, according to a report from the Department of Public Health and Social Services.

There were less than 60 children, ages 12 to 17, testing positive in one day when cases peaked in mid-November of 2020. The number of children ages 0 to 11 peaked at less than 40 in one day around that time.

In late August of this year, the number of positives for children ages 12 to 17 in one day surpassed 70, while the number of positives in one day for those ages 0 to 11 was over 50.

According to Dr. Ann Pobutsky, territorial epidemiologist for Public Health, it was possible the increases were related to the rise of the more infectious delta variant on island, and an upsurge in household transmission of the virus. But it was unclear so far, she said, and noted that daily case counts were going up for the island in general.

Reach reporter Joe Taitano II at JTaitano@guampdn.com.
One of the men wanted by police in connection with an Aug. 18 shooting in Harmon has been arrested, according to Guam Police Department spokesman Sgt. Paul Tapao.

Jensen Belga Develles, 27, was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and firearms charges.

Two other men, Wakatny Williander, 42, and Wayne Williander, 40, were arrested in connection with hindering apprehension.

The shooting occurred at a home along Trankilo Street in Harmon. One man was injured and was taken to a hospital for treatment, Tapao said at the time.

After the shooting, police released wanted flyers for Develles and Justin Michael Duenas, 31.

On Thursday, detectives received information about Develles whereabouts at a home familiar to detectives, Tapao stated in a news release.

Detectives and members of GPDs Special Operations Division were able to locate Develles and take him to the departments headquarters in Tiyan.

Develles was arrested in connection with attempted murder, aggravated assault, reckless conduct, conspiracy possession of firearms without a valid identification, illegal transfer of a firearm, use of a deadly weapon in commission of a felony, unlawful discharge of a firearm, resisting arrest, theft by receiving stolen property and obliteration of a firearms identification number.

He was booked and confined at the Department of Corrections.

Wakatany Williander was arrested in connection with hindering apprehension, according to Tapao. He was booked and released.

Wayne Williander was arrested in connection with hindering apprehension, obstruction of government operations, unsworn falsification and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance. He was booked and released.

The case is ongoing, according to Tapao, and police are still searching for Duenas.
Evan Castro, 13, remains steadfast while receiving his second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine as his father, Eddie Castro, and siblings, JodieMae and Ethan Castro, take advantage the absence of long lines during a vaccination clinic at the Department of Public Health and Social Services Southern Region Community Health Center in Inalahan Tuesday.




Haiti - FLASH : Official delivery of the draft of the new Constitution to the Prime Minister





On Wednesday September 8, 2021, during a ceremony at the official residence of Prime Minister ai Ariel Henry, the Independent Advisory Committee (CCI), chaired by Me Boniface Alexandre, officially handed over to the Prime Minister, in the presence of members of the Government and of executives of the public administration, the draft of the new Constitution.



Recall that this draft New Constitution, the result of long consultations undertaken by the Committee with representatives of different sectors of national life and the population, undertaken since October 30, 2020, was one of the priority projects of the late President Jovenel Moise, assassinated in his private residence, on the night of July 6 to 7, 2021 https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34567-haiti-flash-new-investigating-judge-in-the-assassination-of-president-moise.html



For Prime Minister Henry, this project means providing the country with a new fundamental charter of inclusive application, clear, respectful of human rights, guaranteeing the balance of the three powers and modern democratic values, fundamental freedoms, the rule of law and allow the creation of conditions for good democratic governance.



In his intervention the Prime Minister declared "[...] The multiple political crises that we have known during these last decades, the handicap that this constitutes for the good functioning of public institutions, are serious arguments in favor of a new constitution.



Our country cannot achieve its development goals without having strong and stable institutions. The analysis of the multifaceted crises of our institutions shows the urgent need to endow the country with new fundamental rules.



It is imperative to work, in a participatory and inclusive logic, in order to clarify the competences of the Powers of the State, the rebalancing of Powers, the accountability of elected officials, the strengthening of control institutions and the independence of the judiciary.



[...] Members of the Committee, I thank you and congratulate you for having shown self-sacrifice, professionalism and impartiality in the accomplishment of the mandate entrusted to you. Mission accomplished. The Nation is grateful to you.



Lets be clear that a new constitution will not be the panacea to solve all of our problems. But if we can come to an agreement on a more balanced and efficient way of organizing governance, that will be a starting point for other convergences [...]"



In addition, the Prime Minister seized the opportunity of this ceremony, to reiterate his firm will and his determination for justice to be done to President Moise "This ceremony is an opportunity to say loud and clear to the whole Nation, to the family and relatives of the President, that despite small maneuvers and targeted attacks by some, the truth will eventually emerge and justice will be done."



Download the official draft of the new Constitution (September 2021) in French and Creole (PDF) : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/07092021_PWOJEKONSTITISYONAYITI.pdf



"The CCI invites you to consult, read and share the text of the draft constitution of the Republic of Haiti. We invite all citizens to give their opinion on the text, and to think about all the opportunities that a constitutional change can bring for the country,"



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Insecurity : The Archdiocese of Cap-Haitien is in mourning





Monday September 6, 2021, around 3:00 pm, the priest of the Archdiocese of Cap-Haitien, Father Andre Sylvestre, parish priest of "Notre Dame de la Merci" communal section of Robillard, aged 70, was shot several times by unidentified armed men who stripped and shot him at 11 A street in Cap-Haitien, not far from the Sogebank from where he was returning https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34682-icihaiti-cap-haitien-the-reverend-father-andre-sylvestre-killed-by-bandits.html



Urgently transported to the Justinien Hospital in Cap-Haitien, despite all efforts, he unfortunately gave up his soul.



In a note from the archbishopric writes "[...] his sudden departure is a great loss for the Archdiocese of Cap-Haitien, for the parishioners of Robillard, for the members of his family, for the children of the 'Notre Dame du Perpetuel Secours' orphanage, for young people from several schools and universities to whom he gave psychological support.



He also accompanied the candidates for the priesthood at the propaedeutic Saint Therese of the Child Jesus in Cap-Haitien, the postulants and novices of many religious communities through the courses he gave. He was for the Archbishop of Cap-Haitien a good collaborator, for the priests; a brother, for the faithful a Pastor attentive to their needs, for the orphans a father and for the students an outstanding model and educator.



This big-hearted priest founded an orphan in Tozia, where, together with the Sisters of Charity of Saint Louis, he provided a family home for orphans. This work of mercy and charity helped them to grow spiritually and humanly. He thus prepared them to become good Christians for the Church and good citizens for society.



His departure from this world created a void that will be difficult to fill. We will long remember him, his dedication and his pastoral heart filled with compassion for the little ones, the vulnerable psychologically, emotionally and economically.



The Archdiocese of Cap-Haitien strongly condemns this act of assassination. This deadly assault revolts our conscience. We demand from the constituted authorities an investigation in order to identify the perpetrators of this heinous act, to judge them and to punish them according to the law. We must stop the reign of insecurity which plunges our dear Haiti into the abyss.



May the Lord raise up among us other Christians, other priests to continue his work and take over. May Father Andre Sylvestre hear from the Lord 'Good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Master'"



The date of Father Andre Sylvestre's funeral will be communicated later.



See also :

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-34682-icihaiti-cap-haitien-the-reverend-father-andre-sylvestre-killed-by-bandits.html



HL/ HaitiLibre


















West Monroe, LA (71291)

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Editor: People from all over the world are coming into the United States of Americ
PAINTSVILLE  The Paintsville Rotary Club hosted Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams on Tuesday, Aug. 31, at Beth's Kountry Kitchen, hearing an explanation of changes that have already been made to Kentucky's election processes, how those changes affected the 2020 elections and whether or not our most recent election was secure amid widespread claims of election fraud and unverifiable results. Adams also detailed several new election reforms aimed at increasing voter access and creating even more secure elections.

Adams began with a brief introduction into what the Secretary of State's duties include  duties ranging from handling business filings, land records dating back to the founding of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and elections (including verification, voter registration and actually running the logistics of each elections).

"I came here three times in my campaign in 2018 and 2019, if you'd have told me when I got sworn in that it would have taken me a year and a half to come back, I wouldn't have believed you, but it's been that kind of year and a half, but I'm so glad to get to come back to Paintsville and I'll come back as often as you'll have me," Adams said. "I want to give you a status report on our election system, but first I want to tell you what I do for a living.

"The number one question I got, when I ran for this position is, 'what does the Secretary of State do,' so, I'll tell you, there's three main things: So, number one, I'm the secretary of the state, literally, I'm the custodian of records for 4.5 million Kentuckians," Adams continued. "Every time a bill is passed by the General Assembly, whether the Governor signs it or not, that comes to us, we've got land records in our office in the Capitol that date all the way back to 1792, when we split off from Virginia and became a separate Commonwealth. I've got other records, from various sources. The primary part of that is, I'm the person that verifies acts of the Governor. several times a day, the governor will send an executive order down the hallway to me ... I verify the accuracy of the signature ... then file that away ... Second, I'm the chief business official ... if you start a business in Kentucky, you file with our office."

Adams said those were more the procedurial aspects of his position, and that what he truly enjoys is his work as the commonwealth's chief election official  a passion that dates back to Adams' work at his national election law practices  including time as counsel to Vice President Mike Pence.

"I think the biggest part of my job, certainly the part I enjoy the most, is being the chief election official," Adams said. "Just briefly, my background, before I ran for this position two years, I had a national election law practice based here in Kentucky. I began it in Washington, D.C., where I had most of my career, moved back many years ago, and brought my clients and firm with me. I was counsel to three national committees and, also counsel to Mike Pence when he was Vice President ... all Republicans, really, are my client base ... but that gave me a lot of insight into how other states run their elections, some better than ours, some not, but that also gave me some perspective and some tools and ideas to borrow from to make sure that we could run our elections well in 2020."

Adams said that Kentucky had, in 2020, a "safe, secure and successful election."

"Let me give you just a quick take on 2020, and I'll tell you what we did in 2021 to keep the best of what we did in 2020," Adams said. "I'm pleased to tell you that we had, in 2020, a safe, secure and succesful election. It was safe  other states had spikes in COVID-19 cases coming out of their voting in person, we did not. That wasn't an accident. Our county clerks did an amazing job, our voters did an amazing job, working with each other in a polite and civil way, social distancing and getting everybody in and out. We had a secure election. A lot of folks were concerned we were going to have vote fraud  because we had some sensitive races in the 2020 election and also had some changes to our voting systems.

"People were concerned we'd have fraud  legitimate concerns. Unfortunately, not well founded," Adams continued. "We actually had a more secure election in 2020 than we had under the old rules that I inheritated. I'll give you a specific example. This was the first election in my lifetime, maybe in all of your lifetimes, we only had one instance of someone voting illegally or attempting to vote illegally. We had a gentleman in Owensboro who mailed in an absentee ballot and then went to vote in person ... he went in person, voted, then, the next day, we got his absentee ballot in the mail. We didn't count that second ballot and then we referred that fellow to the grand jury for prosecution."

That security could be attributed, in part, Adams said, to the issue he ran on, got elected on, and was most passionate about, which was photo ID voter laws and also his office's efforts to clean up voter rolls  citing lawsuits against the previous Secretary of State wherein she was ruled against, finding that Kentucky was found deficient in keeping clean rolls.

"That was the only attempt that we had in fraud. Number one, I was the only Secretary of State, during the pandemic to implement a new photo ID to vote law  it's the signature issue that I ran on, and won on. It's an issue that I felt strongly about, in terms of improving the integrity of our election system ... I think that deterred a lot of fraud that we might have had otherwise," Adams said, then attributing some of the reduction in fraud to his office's in-progress cleaning of more than 400,000 voters from the rolls, who were either deceased, moved away or ineligible to vote due to things such as felony convictions.

According to Adams, more than 100,000 voters have currently been removed from the rolls for the reasons mentioned  meaning it is now harder to cheat in the election and that it should make lines shorter as poll workers have less names to look through as they look for each voter.

These are just a part of the ways in which Adams' office has worked to improve our election  including the expansion of in-person voting, adding three extra days to the voting period, which should result in higher voter turnout, a bipartisan effort recently passed by the General Assembly, which will also serve to make elections more secure as there is less panic and rushing on voting day and easier oversight, saying "it's harder to orchestrate a vote buying operation when it's spread out over multiple days, and it's easier for law enforcement to monitor the election when it's smooth and spread out over multiple days, as opposed to one day of chaos." Adams also cited efforts to consolidate voting precincts, which are voluntary on a per-county basis, as well as a voter services portal that is now available online  allowing voter applications for absentee voting online with photo ID checks, allowing that process to now be done in approximately two minutes, and also includes the ability to track ballots much like any other mail shipment.

Adams said that being fair and non-partisan was an important part of his position, as it allows the people to more readily have a secure, convenient and fair say in how their government is ran and by whom.

"There is nothing that is partisan or ideological about having clean government records. I don't want the government to send stimulus checks to people that are dead, and I don't want them to send ballots to people that are dead," Adams said. "It's just good government."

For more information, visit the Secretary of State's website at, www.sos.ky.gov.
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A Texas death row inmate won a reprieve Wednesday evening from execution for killing a convenience store worker during a 2004 robbery that garnered $1.25 after claiming the state was violating his religious freedom by not letting his pastor lay hands on him at the time of his lethal injection.
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Uniontown, PA (15401)

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Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

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Uniontown, PA (15401)

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Showers and thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
(JTA)  Al-Qaida had planned to carry out a massive terrorist attack on Israeli dance clubs in 2002 but was thwarted with the help of U.S. intelligence operatives, a former FBI agent said.

Ali Soufan, who with other agents had monitored al-Qaida for the FBI both before the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center in 2001 and afterward, said the information was obtained by the operatives during interrogations of a Palestinian man apprehended in Afghanistan, the Israeli newspaper Yediot Acharonot reported Friday in an article about Soufan.

Zayn al-Abidin Muhammad Husayn was being held at a CIA site allegedly for fighting alongside al-Qaida there.

According to the article, the attack was in the advanced planning stages when the information came in, leading to arrests. Al-Qaida estimated that the attacks  to happen simultaneously at several clubs  would have killed about 200 people.

It was the only large-scale attempt by the terrorist group to strike in Israel, according to the article.

Muhammad Husayn let the plan slip when he told Soufan that he believed he had been captured because one of the attacks planners in Israel had talked. At that stage, however, U.S. intelligence was unaware of any big plans for an al-Qaida attack in Israel, Soufan said.
(JNS) I first went to Israel when I was 21 and returned at least once a year until 2020, so I was thrilled to renew my streak in August. My wife and I were particularly anxious to see our son who we had not seen since he finished his army service.

As you can imagine, getting into Israel was not easy and only possible at all because of our son being an Israeli citizen, since tourists were not being permitted to visit. We had to get an entry permit from the Israeli consulate, take a COVID-19 test and submit the result to the Israeli government 24 hours before our flight. Up until almost the last moment we were afraid we would have to cancel, as the Israeli government announced just before our departure that it was going to require all visitors to quarantine for at least seven days. We got a reprieve, however, when the government delayed implementing that decision. Still, once we reached Israel, we had to take another COVID-19 test at the airport and, the following morning, went to a lab to get a serological test. The Ministry of Health later gave us clearance to leave isolation and we received our green pass.

For all the publicity about the Delta variant, it was surprising to see the laxity of Israeli behavior and enforcement. While there were stories about police handing out fines at grocery stores to people without masks, we found that relatively few people wore masks except in the packed Dizengoff mall. There was no social distancing anywhere, as far as we could tell. In the restaurants, the staff were apparently required to wear masks, but many of the servers did not wear them properly.

I also had my first-ever experience with Israeli health care when I visited the emergency room at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv because of an ongoing ear problem. Fortunately, the emergency room was relatively quiet, so it took little time to register and get my lab work done. After maybe an hour, I saw an ear specialist who was very professional and reassuring.

But enough about the unpleasantness of life during a pandemic

At the risk of what the anti-Semites would likely call vacation washing, let me tell you about the terrific Airbnb accommodations my wife and I stayed in and the quality time we spent with our son. Besides the usual falafel/shawarma lunches, we went to excellent, albeit expensive restaurants. For those interested, among our favorite meals were at Sea Dolphin and Adom in Jerusalem, Little Tiberius and Hermitage in Tiberias and, in Tel Aviv, Goocha and my favorite steak restaurant, the appropriately named Makom Shel Basar (A Place for Meat). I was glad to see that my usual haunts had survived the pandemic economy with the exception of La Brasserie, a great 24/7 French restaurant across from Rabin Square that closed. I was even happier to return home and find that I hadnt gained weight despite all the bread, chocolate cake and gelato (take that Ben & Jerry!) I consumed.

This was a mercifully politics-free visit unlike most past trips, when I attended conferences on anti-Semitism and BDS and spent a lot of time discussing the usual issues. I was more interested in gathering material for the Jewish Virtual Library about sites in Israel to help remind people that Israel is not synonymous with conflict. As I wrote in response to Roger Cohens New York Times article suggesting that the country is a seething cauldron of internal turmoil, the 17 days we spent in Israel were uneventful and wherever we went, Israeli Muslims and Jews were peacefully coexisting as they have on the dozens of trips I have taken over the last four decades.

There was heat, but it was generated by the sun with temperatures in the high 90s in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, and more than 100 degrees in Tiberius. Hence, my goal was to find places where we could cool off.

We stayed in a wonderful cottage that had once been an Egyptian embassy around the corner from the King David Hotel with a terrific host who had run a coffee shop in the American consulate before President Donald Trump closed it.

Not far from the city, we found En Hemed, a popular family picnic spot. Unfortunately, instead of a place to swim, we found only a trickling stream. When all else fails, my philosophy is to eat, so we drove to the nearby Arab town of Abu Ghosh, which is known for its hospitality and hummus. I am not a fan, but my wife and son testified the hummus at Abu Saeed was the best theyd ever eaten.

We went from there to Nebi Samwil, which is just north of Jerusalem. It has a Crusader-era building Muslims and Jews believe covers the tomb of the prophet Samuel. From the top of the building, you get a spectacular 360-degree view of Jerusalem and its environs. If youre interested in the politics, youre in the West Bank, and you can see Jewish and Arab communities and how Israel has strategically settled the surrounding high ground to secure its hold on its capital.

Most tourists go to the Dead Sea, but you dont have to go in the nasty saltwater to swim at the lowest place on Earth. Einon Tzukim (also called Ein Feshka), sitting alongside the sea at the foot of the cliffs near Qumran, is the lowest nature reserve in the world and the biggest oasis in Israel. There are other attractions, but we were there for the spring water. There are two small pools close to the sea that were relatively uncrowded and one had a canopy to provide shade. Near the upper level is a large circular swimming pool which was packed with kids but still refreshing. The view is again spectacular, and yet another reminder of the beauty of the country.

The following day we returned to a favorite site of mine, Ein Prat, an oasis only about 20 minutes from Jerusalem. There is a monastery built in the side of a cliff and different ways to hike through the Judean desert, but we chose wading through the stream running through the canyon and luxuriating in the ice-cold pools where fish nibble on your toes.

We stayed next in Tiberius, in an Airbnb across the street from the Kinneret. We went to the beach, which was really a postage-stamp size waterfront of rocks rather than sand. The water was warm but still a welcome relief from the searing heat.

Our son took us to my new favorite place, which was not far from Beit Shean but seemingly in the middle of nowhere off a dirt road. Surrounded by trees we found a raging river with water falls and pools to swim in that was beautiful and secluded. Im not sure of the name and maybe thats just as well so it can be my secret refuge.

We did go to one other park in the north to seek water, but the hike in the heat nearly killed my wife and me. We reached water but never made it to the main pool so I cant recommend Nahal Amud, though I hear its quite beautiful.

Another great view was from the Rosh Pina, where you can see the Hula Valley, the Golan Heights and Mount Hermon. The lookout, about 1,650 feet above sea level, is named after Nimrod Segev, a native of the city who was killed along with his crew by an anti-tank missile in the Second Lebanon War in 2006.

We finished our trip in Tel Aviv at a great apartment overlooking the sea and spent relaxing afternoons on the beach watching spectacular sunsets. This is one of the great places to people watch, eat well and relax. After years of packing my itineraries, it was nice to take time to enjoy the city. I finally went to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, and was excited to see the original painting of a print by Chagall I have in my living room. I believe it is the only realistic painting he did, which shows the Western Wall in 1932 with its then narrow passageway for worshippers. We also visited the impressive new ANU  Museum of the Jewish People (formerly Beit Hatefutsoth), the largest Jewish museum in the world, which focuses on the positive aspects of Jewish life from ritual to humor.

For Tel Aviv visitors, I would add the caveat that driving is hazardous to your mental and physical health with the multitude of scooters, motorbikes and insane Israeli drivers. Even trying to cross the bike path on the promenade is risky. Still, there was a certain relief in worrying about something other than COVID-19.
(JTA)  Two weeks ago, Delta Airlines pilot Alexander Kahn flew hundreds of Afghan refugees from Germany to Dulles Airport outside Washington, D.C., as part of a U.S. government partnership with commercial airlines. It had extra special meaning for Kahn, as he told CNN, for a few reasons  first and foremost, his own father was a Holocaust survivor who immigrated to the U.S. in similar fashion.

Im the son of an immigrant in the United States, my father was a Holocaust survivor, he was liberated from Buchenwald concentration camp by Pattons Third Army and came to the United States not much differently than the people that are coming to the United States now, Kahn told Jewish anchor John Berman on CNNs New Day on Friday. He was coming with the clothes on his back, no family, no English skills, and had to start life over again. Luckily he was starting life over in the land of opportunity.

When asked how he felt on board, Kahn said that he was able to put myself in their position.

This is going to be a frightening experience for them, but it has the potential to be an excellent experience for them. My father made it into the United States, learned English, put himself through school, became a doctor, and years later actually was back in West Germany as a physician for the U.S. armyat the tail end of the Cold War, he said.

The Ramstein Air Base in Germany was where Kahn flew his first plane in training, and its where he flew the Delta flight of refugees fleeing the Taliban.

Kahn noted that the flights attendants prepared for the trip the night before by using their own money to buy things for the Afghan flyers, such as diapers, books, candy and other supplies, because we knew these evacuees were coming with no opportunity to prepare, he said.

Berman asked what Kahn would tell his passengers years from now, if he had the chance.

I think Id probably ask them, hows their experience? Have they been able to reach goals that they never dreamed possible? And to give them hope, to show them that we are a land of legal immigrants and this is what built the United States. Were a generous country because were a generous people, and the future is theirs, Kahn said.
(JTA) - At a key moment in the new Netflix film "Worth," Kenneth Feinberg, the real-life architect of the compensation fund for 9/11 victims, is shown overwhelmed by the monumental emotional toil of the job.

At a town hall meeting for victims' families Feinberg - whom Michael Keaton until this point has portrayed as an ultracompetent professional arbiter - is assailed by critics of the fund who see its calculations as too impersonal, its salve on their grief too pitiful. One stands up and angrily spits out that his fate is being decided by "some Jew lawyer."

That moment is as close as the film's Jewish screenwriter Max Borenstein, making a sharp departure from his usual gig writing the new "Godzilla" movies, and director Sara Colangelo (who also helmed the American remake of the dark Israeli drama "The Kindergarten Teacher") get to discussing Feinberg's Judaism. It's a notable oversight, given that Feinberg himself, placed in the role of a real-life Solomon, told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency at the time that he had sought refuge from Jewish texts when putting the fund together.

Yet the film's depiction of the attorney, who is aware that he is making judgments way outside his depth for people who at times actively despise his presence, still rings true to his own account. Midway through interviewing families of victims to determine compensation, Feinberg told JTA that he was questioning the very nature of his own profession.

"There is a problem in valuing life based on economic wherewithal," he said at the time.

Such levels of doubt and introspection are occasionally glimpsed but rarely ruminated on in "Worth." This is a somber, monochromal movie timed to the 20th anniversary of the terror attacks. It keeps us at a safe remove from the actual horrors of 9/11 while still asking us to process them on an intellectual level - much like how it shows Feinberg, a seasoned arbiter of compensation cases, witnessing the World Trade Center wreckage through the window of his commuter train.

Soon after the attacks, Feinberg is tapped to lead the fund by President George W. Bush's attorney general, John Ashcroft, and is immediately ready for the challenge. He compiles an actuarial formula to objectively assign a dollar value to each life lost and devises a plan to get at least 80% of impacted families to agree to the fund. Feinberg is so confident in his mission that he insists he take on the work pro bono.

He's confident, that is, until the families start pushing back and the hardened lawyer sees the error of his thinking. And there are other bits that question the worthiness of the entire project: For example, we learn the fund itself only came into existence because Congress wanted to protect the airline industry from being sued into the ground.

So what was Feinberg working toward? There are times watching "Worth," even throughout the endless scenes of heart-wrenching family testimony being collected, when you legitimately don't know whether he sees his purpose as noble or cynical.

Based on Feinberg's own book "What Is Life Worth?," the movie is produced by Higher Ground, Barack and Michelle Obama's production company. And whether intentionally or not, it makes Feinberg out to be a kind of Jewish Obama: an intellectual Democrat handed an impossible task by Republicans who tries to reach diverse groups of people and is derided in public town halls. Also like Obama, Feinberg is accused of being aloof and unconnected to the struggles of real life; offers vague, noncommittal responses to direct questions; and must make no-win choices to reach imperfect compromises.

Because this strangely familiar character type is shown operating in the period from 2001 to 2003, the end of the fund's signing deadline, the film has the odd effect of using Feinberg to depict the Bush era through an Obama-like moral calculus. It avoids the ugly racism of post-9/11 America and never once mentions war - bitterly ironic for a film set during America's invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan and premiering this week, of all weeks, days after the U.S. military pullout from the latter. In "Worth," grief alone rules the decisions. The families that Feinberg hopes to turn into claimants often don't even want money, only a compassionate ear to hear their story.

By the end, Feinberg even gets to do something that Obama often fantasized about but rarely achieved: work with one of his biggest critics to reach a victory. That would-be adversary is George Wolf (played by Stanley Tucci), who lost his wife in the attacks and organized an effort to "fix" the compensation fund before ultimately siding with Feinberg to declare "The fund is fixed."

In between, Feinberg and Wolf hold respectful disagreements and chat cordially when they bump into each other at the opera. It's a vision of injured Americans coming together that, despite its basis in the historical record, can't help but ring a little hollow 20 years on.

Since 9/11, Feinberg has applied his considered, humanistic approach to victim compensation to many successive American tragedies, including the Tree of Life synagogue shooting in Pittsburgh. It's work that will continue to strike many of the affected as essential and others as superfluous, even damaging to victims' memories. The central Talmudic question governing Feinberg's life - "What is a life worth?" - remains an ongoing project.
I watch this show regularly

And Im not ashamed to admit it! Im talking about the Maury Povich show on television. I love watching it although everyone I know says its beneath them.

I also enjoy watching Hoarders. Maybe because Im very sloppy? (Oh shut up!)

Anyway, MAURY POVICH has always been a favorite of mine and, of course, he is one of us!

I also enjoy watching SNL (Saturday Night Live) on television. I need a laugh now and then and now, now, now!

Ive enjoyed watching particularly when the guest host is SCARLETT JOHANSSON. She is also Jewish. She recently married COLIN JOST, who is another of my favorites on SNL.

A correction from last weeks column

ZACHARY AARON YOUSHA just graduated from New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois.

Mazel tov!

A commemoration

This fall marks the 80th anniversary of the murder of the Jews of Kiev. (Ancestry on my moms side. Thank goodness, my maternal grandparents, uncle and aunt were already in Montreal, Canada, where my mom was born.)

When the Germans invaded the Soviet Union on June 22, 1941, approximately 160,000 Jews lived in the city. Some 100,000 Jews fled Kiev prior to the German occupation of the city on September 19, 1941. On September 29 and 30, more than 33,000 Jews were murdered in the ravine of Babi Yar, located at the edge of Kiev. This was one of the largest mass murders at an individual site during the Holocaust.

During the next months, the Germans killed thousands of Jews and non-Jews at Babi Yar. It is estimated that some 100,000 people were murdered at Babi Yar.

Lets not forget Hungary

In an article published in Magyar Nemzet just a few months ago, President Ambassador RONALD S. LAUDER expressed his deep concern about Hungary as he noted an upsurge throughout Europe of that continents dark history of anti-Semitism.

There is a continuing and growing presence of Hungarys far-right that celebrates truly evil human beings. Once again, we hear the same sick anti-Semitic, xenophobic, anti-Roma, and anti-gay slogans. We see demonstrations with the old salutes and symbols and awards and public recognition given to individuals who distort historic facts and the Holocaust.

If history has taught us anything, it should be this: When people are seduced by the darker instincts in human beings, nothing good ever comes from it. Nothing!I

Ordinary, decent, and freedom loving people who cherish positive and democratic values cannot be silent any longer. It is time for Hungarians to stand up and say. Enough.

Winter Park Playhouse

Starting on September 24th and continuing through October 17, with previews on September 23rd and 24th, The Book of Merman will be presented.

Wow! The life of Ethel Merman. This show promises many side-splitting moments. Its a great musical promising a lot of fun!

The Winter Park Playhouse is located at 711 North Orange Avenue, Winter Park.

For ticket information, phone 407-645-0145.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando

Pride Shabbat is back!

Please join us on Friday, October 8th at 6:30 pm for a celebration of diversity, bringing together friends and families to honor the LGBTQ+ community.

Led by Rabbi DAVID KAY, we hope to see you at Orlando City Hall for our third annual Pride Shabbat..

For further information and to register, phone 407-645-5933.

Shout-out

I try to eat lunch out at Perkins Restaurant on University Blvd, Winter Park, at least once each week because they have lots of my favorites.

And speaking of favorites they have wonderful servers. One in particular is ASHLEY HUSKEY, a very fast server who is also accurate and super sweet. Its nice to see her each week as well!

One for the road

A business people joke:

The secretary was leaving the office when she saw the CEO standing by the shredder with a piece of paper in his hand. Listen, said the CEO, this is a very important document. Can you make this thing work?

The secretary turned the machine on, inserted the paper, and pressed the start button.

Great! said the CEO as his paper disappeared inside the machine. I just need one copy.

OY VAY!!!! (A shredded copy, one hopes!)
WASHINGTON (JTA)  In a Rosh Hashanah call last Thursday with a thousand rabbis across the denominational spectrum, President Joe Biden rededicated his presidency to combating hate and extremism and called on the Senate to swiftly confirm his nominee for antisemitism monitor, Deborah Lipstadt.

In the afternoon webinar, Biden was asked how he intended to combat a spike in antisemitic incidents. He noted that the attorney general, Merrick Garland, was hiring staff to coordinate the prosecution of hate crimes and that his administration was tracking extremist groups in what he called Americas first-ever comprehensive effort to take on the threat of domestic terrorism.

The president also cited his nomination in July of Lipstadt to be the State Departments antisemitism monitor. The Senate has yet to take up the nomination.

Now theres no one more qualified and I called her for a swift confirmation in the Senate, Biden said of the Emory University Holocaust historian.

Biden said he launched his campaign in April 2019 in part because of his frustration with former President Donald Trumps failure to unequivocally condemn the deadly neo-Nazi march in Charlottesville, Virginia, in 2017. He said his children and grandchildren pressed him to run.

Were not going to stand for our fellow Americans being intimidated and attacked for who they are, what they believe, and thats across the board, Biden said. Sometimes reform is preceded by serious serious breach of decency and people see it.

Responding to questions on climate change and civil rights, Biden said he was committed to combating climate change and credited the Jewish community for taking the lead over the decades in the fight for civil rights. He backed current Jewish initiatives to roll back voting restrictions passed by some state legislatures.

Describing his meeting last week in Washington with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Biden noted their political differences  Bennett is a hawk and opposes some U.S. Middle East policies, particularly the U.S. leaders efforts to reenter the Iran nuclear deal. But Biden said Bennett was a gentleman and pledged unwavering support for Israel.
The cover of the first issue of the relaunched Canadian Jewish News - now a primarily digital- and podcast-focused news outlet with quarterly forays into print.

(JTA) - Reports of the demise of the Canadian Jewish News have been, not for the first time, greatly exaggerated.

On Sept. 1, the publication - the largest Jewish news organization in Canada - will rebrand as a digital-first enterprise after abruptly shutting down operations in April 2020 and then resuming a trickle of content over the last year. It is the second relaunch for the 61-year-old nonprofit, which previously shut its doors in 2013 before garnering enough community support to restart operations within a year.

This time, the CJN is undergoing a full-scale revamp, although with the same editor in chief. It is prioritizing digital content, including email newsletters and a suite of podcasts, and dramatically scaling back its print edition from weekly to four times a year.

A new digital membership program will replace print subscribers.

Articles on the website will skew to a younger audience, with the goal of establishing intergenerational dialogue among the country's 400,000 Jews. Among the buzzy topics covered at the new CJN: a feature on young Jews who have been getting Holocaust tattoos to honor survivors and a podcast interview with Rain Pryor, Richard Pryor's daughter. The new CJN is also leaning hard into podcasts, with offerings including a daily news show and a spirituality-focused series titled "Won't You Be My Rabbi?"

The CJN now employs seven full-time staffers, including several in a newly created podcast department. That's down from a staff of 40 in 2013 and less than half of the 16 on the masthead at the time of its April 2020 closure. (Though the Toronto-based publication had previously staffed a separate Montreal edition with occasional French-language content, the CJN is refraining from a concentrated Montreal venture for now.)

The changes, which have been rolling out in a soft-launch format for the past few months ahead of the official Rosh Hashanah-pegged relaunch date, are part of a top-to-bottom rethinking of the publication. Editorial leadership said that reinvention had already been in the works as early as 2019, but those plans were derailed last spring when the board's president, Elizabeth Wolfe, announced the CJN would close up shop. Wolfe cited the loss of revenue from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Even after the paper was formally shut down and its offices shuttered, the CJN still existed as a Canadian nonprofit, and its board remained intact. (Wolfe, whose family has had an ownership stake in the paper since the 1970s, remains on the board.) In December, the board approved a new plan spearheaded by a group including editor-in-chief and CEO Yoni Goldstein, who also ran the CJN's previous iteration, and newly elected board president Bryan Borzykowski, a business journalist, to reintroduce the outlet to Canadian Jews.

The COVID shutdown was "a bit of a gift" in disguise, said Marc Weisblott, CJN's new managing editor, because it freed the publication from the baggage of its weekly print edition and previous branding.

"That liberated the next iteration from the customary publishing style," Weisblott said. "It allowed us to reinvent what the CJN would be."

During its work, the team redesigning the website tried to keep community interest in the publication alive by posting new articles directly to its Facebook page.

Weisblott is adamant that the new CJN will be a stark departure from the previous incarnations, which he believes did not adequately capture the attention of Canada's younger Jews.

"The old website looked terrible," he said. "Things were reestablished with the expectation that we would be experimental and different."

Prior to this year, Weisblott's role with the CJN had been limited to a freelance contributor.

The CJN's new funding model is a mix of online advertising, digital memberships and philanthropy, with some of the donors remaining anonymous. As before, the publication remains independent of any federation or other Jewish institution.

Canada wasn't devoid of Jewish news during the pandemic. Some local outlets, including the Vancouver Jewish Independent and the Alberta Jewish News (a Jewish Telegraphic Agency partner), continued to publish uninterrupted; the Winnipeg-based conservative outlet TheJ.ca went national; and a new site, the Canadian Jewish Record, formed with the support of some CJN alumni, including 20-year veteran reporter Ron Csillag. Both TheJ.ca and the Record's staffs were unpaid. (The latter shut down once the CJN announced its relaunch plans, and Csillag was rehired there.)

Weisblott and his team are optimistic that the latest revamp will again position the CJN as the Great White North's definitive source for Jewish news and commentary.

"We want to create content that people will talk about around the dinner table when people have their Rosh Hashanah family gatherings," he said. "How can we get an older reader to talk to their kids and grandkids about what they're seeing in this publication?"
The Arava Desert in Israel's south is "abuzz" with activity - and it is all thanks to one important six-legged critter: the humble honeybee.

In a world where scientists acknowledge the important role bees play in our ecosystem yet worry about their dwindling numbers, farmers in Israel's Arava Desert are working to grow bee colonies  and they are already achieving some very "sweet" results.

You would not expect to find a bee colony in the middle of a desert, yet the bees at Porat Farm in Ein Yahav, an area supported by Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA), are not only surviving, they're thriving.

Despite its arid moonscape-like environment, the Arava region in Israel's Negev Desert provides the ideal conditions for growing bee colonies. With limited pollution, the air remains pure, which in turn helps prevent many of the diseases that are decimating bee colonies around the world.

And the conditions that help bees thrive in the arid environment are benefiting local farmers as well.

In addition to the variety of delicious honeys that comes from bees, local farmers in the Arava and JNF-USA supported agricultural scientists rely on bees to pollinate their crops. In fact, farmers will rent beehives from beekeepers like Porat and place them in their fields, resulting in more profit for their businesses and better quality fruits and vegetables for Israelis and consumers around the world.

According to Noa Zer, JNF-USA Liaison in the Arava and owner of a two-acre pepper farm, "Without the bees we wouldn't be able to grow what we grow. There would be no source of income. The bees are the best helpers."

There are two types of bees that are being used to help boost local agriculture: the honeybee and the bumblebee. As Dr. Oded Kanan from JNF-USA's R&D center in the Arava explained, honeybees are more commonly used in open greenhouses, whereas the bumblebee is used in closed greenhouses. While the bumblebee does not produce honey, they are still essential for pollination. Bumblebees move their wings hundreds of times per second, and the vibrations from it allows them to pollinate a flower before they move along to the next plant. This process is called "buzz pollination."

This new approach is a major upgrade from previous pollination techniques in the region, when farmers would have to go by themselves, flower by flower, with a special device to pollinate them. Today, thanks to the helpful cooperation of bees and innovative researchers, farmers were able to increase their yield by 60 percent. And today, farms in the Arava are responsible for producing more than half of all of Israel's produce.

Farmers and experts alike agree, it all comes down to cooperation. Whether it be the way bees work together with each other and with the farmers or the way that JNF-USA invests in communities in the Arava, cooperation is key. To attract 500,000 new residents to Israel's south as part of the organization's Blueprint Negev initiative, JNF-USA has invested in a range of projects that create local jobs and opportunities. Accordingly, JNF-USA has invested in R&D facilities, built parks and playground, created medical centers, and supported agriculture schools.

And as JNF-USA continues to support research facilities in the Arava, leading scientists are continuing to make breakthroughs that support global agriculture.

As Dr. Kanan points out, "Without bees there is no world, and this is something scientists everywhere are working on." Communities in other countries, like Nepal, are catching on and adopting the methods that they saw being used in Israel. It modernizes the way food is being grown, helps with economic security, and ultimately has a ripple effect throughout society. It's what farmers like Zer call, "the bee effect." By helping Israel's desert bloom, these little bees, with the help of local farmers and JNF-USA, are making a big impact. And that's something that is pretty sweet and worth celebrating this year!

This is a Paid Post from the Jewish National Fund-USA, which ensures a strong, secure, and prosperous future for the land and people of Israel, and Jewish people everywhere.

This is a paid post. JTA's editorial team had no role in its production.
Acting Consul General of Israel in New York Israel Nitzan and the Port Authority Police Department gathered at the Ground Zero memorial site to mark the Jewish calendar's 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and its victims. Source: Israeli consulate/Twitter.

(JNS) - Acting Consul General of Israel in New York Israel Nitzan and the Port Authority Police Department gathered at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in Lower Manhattan on Tuesday to mark the Jewish calendar's 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and its victims.

"That tragic and devastating day was an attack on the free world, democracy and the values we all hold so dear," said Nitzan at the event. "As terror and suffering continue to grow in this world, Israel and the United States must continue to join forces, and fight hate and evil from our midst. We have come a long way and yet have long to go."

Others who attended the service included Port Authority Police Superintendent Ed Cetnar; Rabbi Mendy Carlebach, chaplain of the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, who blew a shofar at the event; and UJA-Federation of New York president Amy Bressman.

Following his remarks, Nitzan and Bressman also placed a wreath at the 9/11 "Survivor Tree" to commemorate victims of the attack before participants toured the memorial to honor the Israeli victims of that day.

"On behalf of the men and women of Port Authority Police Department, I thank you for this great honor and being with you," said Cetnar. "It means a lot to us because of the significance of everything that's going on around the world, and that we continue to remember and we will never forget."

He added that "the only other 9/11 memorial in the Middle East is in Israel. I've been there several times, I laid a wreath each time we have been there, so the honor and the opportunity to do such things, it's been great for us."
Shana Tova! Join Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando (JFS Orlando) in celebrating the Jewish New Year by raising hope through tzedakah (charity). During the Hope Challenge, from September 1st through October 6th, $0.50 of each $1 donated to JFS Orlando will be generously matched by The Pearlman Family, with a total match up to $10,000.

Your donation could...provide life-changing counseling to a child, help a family find stability, or drive a senior to a vital medical appointment.

On behalf of the thousands we serve, please consider accepting our challenge to provide hope by donating today! To donate, visit http://www.JFSorlando.org/HHhopechallenge or mail to JFS Orlando (2100 Lee Road, Winter Park, FL 32789). Thank you and may you and your loved ones be inscribed for a Healthy, Joyous, and Sweet 5782.
(JNS)  The shockwaves from the Talibans lightning-quick takeover of Afghanistan are continuing to reverberate throughout the Middle East, and Islamist forces are feeling energized by the U.S. withdrawal.

But according to Prof. Eyal Zisser, a lecturer in the Middle East History Department at Tel Aviv University, that boost in morale isnt translating into rash attacks and warfare.

I think that while the extremist forces are seeking to build on the American withdrawal from Afghanistan and the Talibans victory for morale purposes, they are realistic enough to understand that this is not Afghanistan, that the reality here is difference, and therefore, Hezbollah and Hamas are congratulating the Taliban but they are careful not to go after it and launch a conflict with Israel, Zisser told JNS.

After the 2006 Second Lebanon War, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah boasted of victory for propaganda purposes, but in actuality he remained in his bunker and has been very careful not to provoke Israel for most of the time since the war, said Zisser.

The developments in Afghanistan create a new opening for further strengthening the alliance between Israel and pragmatic Sunni states, who are equally threatened by radical Islamist elements, whether Shiite  the Iranian axis  or radical Sunni Islamists, ranging from ISIS to the Muslim Brotherhood.

The fear of an American abandonment of the area after Afghanistan has of course grown stronger, and I think this is sufficient to strengthen cooperation between the Gulf States and Israel, said Zisser. But there is also a need to continuously strengthen their sense that Israel can indeed assist them.

Zisser argued that the U.S. is not about to leave the Gulf region, noting it retains significant forces in that area. This is not Iraq or Afghanistan  the Americans are wanted in this area [the Gulf], so I assume that talk of abandoning the area is premature. The question is whether the Iranians will decide to challenge the U.S., and if so, will the U.S. respond militarily as the Trump administration did, or will [President Joe] Biden simply desire to avoid a conflict at all costs? Time will tell, he added.

An additional Israeli perspective on events unfolding in Afghanistan could be found in a recent paper published by the Institute for Policy and Strategy Team at IDC Herzliya, which stated that the swift, chaotic and humiliating evacuation of American forces and assets from Afghanistan is a transformational event whose long-term impact it is too early to assess.

At the same time, the paper argued, past experience shows that victories of extremist forces across the Middle East generally carry with them radicalization processes and amplify terror threats.

In the shorter term, the team wrote, Israel can draw a number of key conclusions from the developments. First among them is the resounding expression of the failure of the nation-building project and inculcation of a democratic system embarked on by the United States some two decades ago.

Against this backdrop, the Israeli perspective  which prefers stability over externally implanting democracy and a liberal set of values on countries of the region  was revalidated, said the paper.

Thus, Israel must continue to support the moderate and monarchic Sunni regimes in the Middle East, particularly in Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Even if these regimes are not democratic, they still curb religious forces of the political Islam, fight against what remains of ISIS, and like Israel, are disturbed by the growing shadow of Iranian influence and Shiite terrorism, it stated.

Such positions are likely a reflection of how the Israeli defense establishment is viewing events in Afghanistan.

Israel needs to deepen its cooperation with moderate regimes in the diplomatic, military and intelligence realms, and take action in every way possible to strengthen them, said the paper. It appears that events in Afghanistan have created opportunities for Israel to step up military ties with the Arab states.
WASHINGTON (JTA)  Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib called for Israel to return the body of a woman who was killed while she attempted to kill Israeli soldiers.

In a Twitter thread on Saturday, Tlaib, one of Israels harshest critics in Congress, slammed Israel for its policy of holding onto the bodies of assailants who are killed during an attack.

Meet Mai Afanas mother, Khuloud, who is fighting to be able to bury her daughter & begin her healing, wrote Tlaib, a Palestinian American. Mai was a mother, loving daughter & successful PhD student. She was killed by the Israeli government last June. Israel wont release her body to her family.

Attached to the tweet is a photo of Afanas mother holding up a poster of her daughter.

Afana was killed on June 16. The Israeli military said at the time that she had rammed her car into a West Bank checkpoint near Jerusalem and then, holding a knife, had rushed the soldiers at the checkpoint. An Israeli soldier was lightly injured in the attack.

Israel routinely holds bodies of assailants as a means of bargaining for live Israeli captives and the bodies of Israelis held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Tlaib does not in her Twitter thread explain the background to Afanas death except for an apparent allusion to her belief that the army had not made its case against Afana, saying that bodies are held without proof.

I am sharing Mais story because I began to only learn last year of this inhumane practice by the Israeli govt, Tlaib wrote. Without proof, they make claims, and all to just continue to dehumanize Palestinians even after they have died. We must stand against this form of collective violence.

Tlaib also does not address the underlying rationale for the policy  Hamas refusal to return Israeli bodies and captives. She does link to a Human Rights Watch report condemning Israel for holding another Palestinians body; that report mentions Israels rationale for holding the bodies and condemns Hamas as well.

The Palestinian people deserve the same dignity as any other human being, Tlaib wrote. To deny the right to see their loved ones for a modicum of closure is another form of painful violence from the U.S. sponsored, Israeli arsenal. Mais dead body is one of hundreds being held.

Tlaib is one of a handful of progressive Democrats who back the boycott Israel movement and who during the Israel-Hamas conflict in May called for a cut in funding to Israel. She is the only member of Congress who says she believes Israel should not exist as a Jewish state.
As America licks its wounds and wrings its hands at the debacle of the last several weeks in the humiliating retreat and defeat at the hands of the Taliban in Afghanistan, let us pause to remember the brave and courageous men and women of our armed forces who returned to the battlefield in the waning days of our retreat from Kabul.

They returned, not to battle a barbaric enemy, but to rescue and save American citizens, Afghan allies and citizens who embraced freedom, modernity and equality. These are the Afghans who rejected the inhumane, barbaric and criminal behavior of the radical and irrational Islamic fanatics who usurp both the spiritual and intellectual beliefs of Islam.

These returning American military personnel were no threat to the victorious Taliban or to the ISIS and Al-Qaeda terrorists who once again will find a safe haven under the auspices of a Taliban terrorist regime.

Our initial objective in invading Afghanistan was to neutralize the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11 in 2001. The American military sought no territorial conquest of any lands, but only to give the Afghan people an opportunity to find their own destiny. Under the protection of the American military, millions of Afghan men and women were given the opportunity to educate themselves, and to free themselves from centuries of oppression.

America did not impose its will on the Afghan people. It sought no spoils of war. On the contrary, America spent hundreds of billions of dollars in supporting the development of Afghans economy, building it educational and other democratic institutions. It sent its sons and daughters into harms way, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice, to assist the Afghan people in developing their own security. The failure of that effort was the failure of the Afghan people, not the failure of the American effort.

Each of us, in one way or another, has been touched by the lives of American soldiers who in every generation have served our nation.

These contemporary Americans are the same breed as the American doughboys who rescued Europe in World War I and who rescued humanity from the darkness of Nazi barbarism in World War II. They carry the same heroic DNA as our soldiers who fought in South Korea and Vietnam.

Our history is replete with other examples of the sacrifices American soldiers have made on behalf of other peoples to keep them free. Even in defeat, American soldiers have carried out their missions with courage, dignity and honor.

There is no military mission more noble or unselfish than to assist a people who want to be free and to work out their internal problems without violence. That is what the United States over a twenty-year period tried to do in Afghanistan.

It was tragic that the Afghans were unable to take advantage of the opportunity afforded them by the American military presence and assistance, but that does not diminish from the nobility of that effort.

For the loved ones of our fallen 13 who died in the last days of our evacuation from Afghanistan there will never be a satisfactory answer to why they died.

It is therefore incumbent on all Americans to remember with particular reverence those fallen 13; that an American soldier, in every generation, is a person who stands ready to give his or her life so that others may live freely; and that we are proud of each and every one of them.

If you wish to comment or respond you can reach me at melpearlman322@gmail.com. Please do so in a rational, thoughtful, respectful and civil manner.

Mel Pearlman holds B.S. & M.S. degrees in physics as well as a J.D. degree and initially came to Florida in 1966 to work on the Gemini and Apollo space programs. He has practiced law in Central Florida since 1972. He has served as president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando; was a charter board member, first vice president and pro-bono legal counsel of the Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center of Central Florida, as well as holding many other community leadership positions.
Cambridge

Wolf was in a peacetime army and he regularly wrote letters home about camp life and what he was doing. His life and the lives of millions of other Americans changed forever on Dec. 7, 1941 when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and the United States entered World War II
CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the much anticipated first-ever global release of the Yamazaki 55, the House of Suntory pays tribute to the passage of time and the legacy of the founding family of Japanese whisky. Bottled in 2020, Yamazaki 55  the House of Suntory's oldest release in its history  celebrates the Japanese "Showa" era of the 1960s that represented a major period of change for the House of Suntory.
Anchor/Multimedia Journalist

Hello! I am the weekend anchor as well as a reporter for Your News Now! You can reach me with news tips (or just to say hello!) at khonigford@wlio.com.
Appointment

9 September 2021

Overseeing the renovation of Sandcastles Restaurant's open-air concept kitchen is new culinary team lead Steve Withall.

During his 18-year career, Withall has held many impressive culinary titles, including private beach club chef, restaurant head chef, executive chef and chef de cuisine.

He most recently served as the instructional coordinator of culinary and hospitality at Gulf Coast State College in Panama City, Florida.

Withall is the latest addition to the already stellar line up of culinary talent leading the food and beverage outlets at Hilton Sandestin.
Appointment

9 September 2021

After an outstanding career trajectory with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Julien joins Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik as Hotel Manager.

Hailed for his business acumen, people-oriented management style and attention to detail, Julien holds a remarkable track record of successfully opening and transforming several luxury hotels and concept driven restaurants in India. From his very first stint as an apprentice with the Taj Group of Hotels to propelling the operations of Asia's biggest and India's most iconic nightclub - Fire N' Ice, he had garnered a strong foothold in the hospitality industry at a very young age and concurrently became extremely prominent in the social circuit of Mumbai.

Since then and throughout his career Julien has occupied senior roles in award-winning hotels such as JW Marriott Juhu, Mumbai and Grand Hyatt Mumbai where he played a vital role in launching two of its exceptionally popular and iconic restaurants - Celini and the China House, both being game changers in India's ever flourishing food and beverage scene. He has also been part of the pre-opening team at Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, and at Park Hyatt Chennai - a luxury brand of the Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, he was privileged to receive the Conde Nast Traveller award for The Flying Elephant, one of India's most theatrical and eclectic food and beverage spaces.

A creative, friendly, and passionate hospitality professional, Julien now joins Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Nashik as the Hotel Manager, bringing his vision for progressive F&B concepts and cultivating a culture of genuine care and sincere service to cement the hotel's position as a premium destination for leisure, business, and social guests.
Press Release

8 September 2021

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts ("Four Seasons" or "the Company"), the world's leading luxury hospitality company, today announced that its longstanding shareholder, an affiliate of Cascade Investment, L.L.C. (collectively, "Cascade"), has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling interest in the Company. In the all-cash deal, Cascade will increase its existing 47.5 percent stake to 71.25 percent by purchasing half of the existing 47.5 percent stake owned by an affiliate of its long-term investment partner Kingdom Holding Company ("KHC") for $2.21 billion, valuing Four Seasons at a $10 billion enterprise value. Four Seasons Founder and Chairman, Isadore Sharp, through Triples Holdings Limited ("Triples Holdings") will retain his 5% stake.

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Cascade's increased investment reflects its strong belief and excitement for Four Seasons iconic brand. Along with its long-standing investment partners, Cascade reaffirms its support for the vision and unique culture that will further distinguish Four Seasons as one of the world's leading luxury companies. The transaction marks a pivotal point in the evolution of Four Seasons, strengthening Cascade's commitment to provide the Company with resources to accelerate growth and expand its strategic goals. Cascade first invested in Four Seasons in 1997 when the Company was public.

"As we mark our 60th anniversary and look back on the profound impact that Four Seasons has had on luxury hospitality we also look forward with tremendous excitement and confidence in the future of the industry," said Four Seasons CEO John Davison. "The unwavering support and partnership of our shareholders has and continues to be critical as we capitalize on growing opportunities to serve luxury consumers worldwide."

"Our Company is at yet another key moment in its storied history and the confidence of our shareholders in Four Seasons and our strategic vision help position the iconic Four Seasons brand for continued success," Davison said.

Sharp founded Four Seasons in 1960 and set the company on its path toward global expansion. Four Seasons now manages 121 exceptional hotels and resorts, and 46 world-class residential properties in 47 countries complemented by a strong pipeline of more than 50 projects at various stages of development. Four Seasons shareholders took the Company private in 2007, executing a strategy that expanded new opportunities for guests, residents, employees, and hotel owner partners worldwide. Today the Four Seasons name is synonymous with a singular focus on luxury and highly personalized service the world over.

Following the transaction and through its affiliate's ownership of its 23.75% in Four Seasons, KHC remains strongly committed to the Company and looks forward to continuing to assist Four Seasons with its growth plans.

The sale is expected to close in January 2022, pending regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

About Cascade Investment, L.L.C.

Cascade Investment, L.L.C. is a private investment entity that holds assets of William H. Gates III.

About Kingdom Holding Company

Kingdom Holding Company is one of the world's most successful diversified companies and is internationally renowned for its investments in both high performance global companies and strategic regional interests. Founded in 1980 and based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, KHC has achieved almost four decades of exceptional investment success and is renowned for its diversified portfolio of global powerhouse brands and high performance local regional investments. KHC was incorporated as a publicly listed company in 2007.

Known as one of the largest investment firms in the world, KHC's disciplined approach spans the globe and includes leading market segments such as ride sharing, e-commerce, digital services and social media (Lyft, Uber, Careem, JD.com, Twitter, Deezer), banking and financial services (Citigroup, Saudi Fransi Bank).

KHC is also a global leader in luxury hotels and hotel management, with ownership and significant interests in marquee properties such as the George V in Paris and the Savoy Hotel in London and managing The Plaza in New York via Fairmont. KHC's global hotel brands include the Four Seasons, and the Accor Group (Fairmont, Raffles, Movenpick, Swissotel, and Sofitel).

In Saudi Arabia, KHC's real estate interests include the famed Kingdom Tower in Riyadh and Jeddah Economic City owner of the highly anticipated Jeddah Tower that, once completed, will be the tallest tower in the world with a height exceeding 1000 meters, Kingdom oasis and the east of Riyadh land.

KHC also has investments in petrochemicals (Tasnee NIC), education (Kingdom Schools), health care (Kingdom Hospital), aviation (NAS Saudi Arabia), private equity (CDC Sovereign Wealth Fund of France) In addition to many different investments in multiple domains.
Press Release

9 September 2021

Today, Radisson Hotel Group is organizing the first edition of Radisson Live. An exclusive hybrid event broadcast simultaneously from four different locations, Radisson Live brings together business leaders as well as industry experts to share insights and knowledge that will further shape the future of hospitality.

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Broadcast live and simultaneously from iconic Radisson Hotel Group locations in London (The May Fair, A Radisson Collection Hotel), Frankfurt (Radisson Blu Hotel, Frankfurt), Stockholm (Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, Stockholm), and Dubai (Radisson RED Dubai Silicon Oasis), Radisson Live strives to inspire as well as to expand the attendees understanding of the challenges and innovations that will drive the hospitality industry forward.

COVID-19 has had a profound impact on the travel and hospitality industry and has drastically changed the way we will travel and conduct business in the future. As more and more countries open their borders, the hospitality industry must think about ways to respond to new market demands. At Radisson Live, we are bringing together key clients, partners, and renowned industry experts to expand our common understanding of the opportunities and innovations that will drive our industry forward, and how working together, we as an industry can respond and shape the future of the travel industry, says Eric De Neef, Executive Vice President, Global Chief Branding & Commercial Officer Radisson Hotel Group.

Three world-class speakers will share their knowledge in forward-thinking sessions. Richard Quest, CNN Anchor & CNN Business editor-at-large, will dive Inside the mindset of the new business traveler and provide insights on how business and leisure travelers will re-discover a world of destinations in this new era of travel, as well as answer questions on how the hospitality industry can deliver a safe experience in a post COVID-19 world without comprising on high-quality service.

Owen Fitzpatrick, international best-selling author and psychologist will host an insightful conversation about the Science of WOW to discuss questions such as what kind of content grabs and keeps the brains attention as well as what kind of events  both virtual as well as in person  people will want to attend. During his session, Fitzpatrick will also reveal the secret to creating events and content which are impossible to forget.

As Managing Director, EMEA at Encore, Nicholas Rudge is an expert in the events and media sector. In his session Event experiences re-imagined, Rudge will explore how event experiences will continue to develop in the post COVID-19 world, and how experiences for physical as well as digital event attendees can be blended.

In addition to these world-class speakers and industry experts, business leaders from Radisson Hotel Group will share their insights on: embracing change and The keys to staying alive in transforming a global company (Federico J. Gonzalez, Chief Executive Officer), The fast-growing global footprint of Radisson Hotel Group (Elie Younes, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer), as well as How customer centricity is the catalyst for growth (Eric de Neef, Executive Vice President, Global Chief Branding & Commercial Officer).

Inge Huijbrechts, Global Senior Vice President Sustainability, Security and Corporate Communications will share insights on How to define a successful sustainability strategy that cares for the planet and the bottom line, and Giorgi Mindiashvili, Vice President Food & Drink EMEA will be discussing The future of Food and Beverage at Radisson Hotel Group.

Chema Basterrechea, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer will talk in depth about How to deliver unique guest experiences through fast paced innovation.

At the event Radisson Hotel Group will also reveal its latest cross brand introduction: Radisson+, an umbrella brand covering all innovation and technological transformations that enhance both the employee and guest experience, enabling a more flexible, efficient, and personalized experience. With Radisson+ guests will be able to choose how they manage their stay, with services like online check-in, AI-enabled service chats and omnichannel e-concierge capabilities. Certain services of Radisson+ are already available across different hotels in EMEA and will also be further rolled out the next months.

Radisson Live uses Radisson Hotel Groups signature Hybrid meetings technology , using the Radisson Meetings Broadcasting Studios platform for both live attendance as well as live streaming. This event is 100% Carbon Neutral, as are all events at Radisson Hotel Group properties worldwide.

More information on the first edition of Radisson Live can be found here.
Supplier News

9 September 2021

Marketing Services by DerbySoft is proud to announce the addition of Ctrip CAST to its marketing solutions. The addition of the new CAST engine enables hotels to run sponsored ads on the hotel listing page as well as other native recommendation advertising placements across Chinas largest online travel company encompassing Ctrip, Trip.com , qunar.com and LY.com CAST ensures that members will have the top positions on over ten Ctrip channels, allowing them to outperform their competitors in terms of visibility while driving increased traffic and ultimately boosting bookings. Read more about this powerful new addition here: https://lnkd.in/dv9WY4Q9 .

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Intelligent Marketing Services Technology For Hotels That Want The Most From Their Campaigns.

About DerbySoft

DerbySoft enables travel companies to work together through technology and innovation. As the leading technology provider of high-performance hotel distribution, DerbySoft connects distributors and suppliers through the Connectivity by DerbySoft by offering streamlined connectivity at both the CRS and PMS levels. DerbySoft also provides solutions for suppliers through the Marketing Services by DerbySoft, which uses machine learning and rich data to drive high-performing digital marketing campaigns, and the Content by DerbySoft, a platform for collecting, managing and distributing quality hotel content to drive higher booking conversions.
Supplier News

9 September 2021

Today, the Tripadvisor Foundation has revealed an initial $1 Million grant to support Afghan refugees. The funding will go towards World Central Kitchen's mobilization to provide fresh meals supplied by local restaurants for thousands of Afghan families arriving at Dulles International Airport in Virginia, U.S, air bases in Spain, and other potential locations as the situation evolves. This effort has already provided over 60,000 meals to people fleeing Afghanistan.

"The humanitarian crisis that the people of Afghanistan have been and are confronting is heartbreaking" says Stephen Kaufer, Chairman of the Tripadvisor Foundation and CEO of Tripadvisor. "These resilient individuals and families evacuating Afghanistan are experiencing a long, harrowing journey - some traveling up to 48 hours without food. We want those in need, facing one of the toughest challenges of their lives, to feel safe, cared for and welcomed upon arrival. We believe in the power of food to comfort and unite us, which is why we're proud to partner once again with World Central Kitchen to provide warm meals for those who have been forced to flee their homes."

Since 2015, the Tripadvisor Foundation and Tripadvisor have been committed to helping address the displacement crisis. Over the past six years, the Tripadvisor Foundation has donated over $7 Million to leading humanitarian aid and resettlement organizations globally, helped welcome refugees in communities across the U.S., engaged their employees and business partners in addressing the crisis, and more.

World Central Kitchen (WCK) is a nonprofit organization that uses the power of food to nourish communities and strengthen economies in times of crisis and beyond. They provide nutritious meals to communities during natural disasters and other crises, and invest in local food systems through long-term resilience programs. While the situation in Afghanistan is continuing to unfold, WCK is actively responding to immediate needs by feeding evacuated individuals and families that have been forced to flee the country. The organization is teaming up with government agencies and airline companies who are flying thousands of refugees to processing centers to provide fresh, halal meals supplied by local restaurants.

"World Central Kitchen is a team of food first responders, mobilizing with the urgency of now to get meals to those who need them most. We activated to support the best way we know how: with fresh, hot meals for the thousands of people fleeing Afghanistan as they arrived in cities around the world," said Nate Mook, CEO of World Central Kitchen. "In just the first week serving at Dulles airport, we provided over 20,000 meals from nine different local restaurants, which prepared halal meals with flavors from home. More than ever, we know this meal is so much more than a plate of food, it's a sign that someone cares. We're grateful for the Tripadvisor Foundation's support and belief in our mission, which enables us to carry out this critical work."

The Tripadvisor Foundation's contribution is a continuation of a partnership that began in 2020, following a $1.5 Million pledge in response to COVID-19. This included funding for World Central Kitchen's Restaurant for the People initiative, which helped keep restaurants afloat throughout the pandemic, along with other organizations assisting front-line hospitality and restaurant workers.

"We admire World Central Kitchen's approach since they not only feed people in times of crisis - but also support local restaurants in impacted communities," says Tali Golan, Director of Social Impact at Tripadvisor.

As the crisis in Afghanistan  and others around the world  unfolds, Tripadvisor will continue to collaborate with its nonprofit partners to support refugees and communities impacted by crises.

About Tripadvisor Foundation

The Tripadvisor Foundation works to address some of the most pressing humanitarian challenges facing global communities. Since 2010, the Foundation has donated more than $35 million to nonprofit organizations that strengthen human lives and that are supported by Tripadvisor employees around the world.
For over 30 years, the Black Labrador on Montrose Boulevard was a gathering spot, a British-style pub where people could spend time and have conversation before it closed in December 2019, just months before the pandemic would drive a slew of local bars and restaurants out of business.

Now, the former British-style pub is showing signs of life once more. The strips longtime owner, the University of St. Thomas, is returning the space to its roots as a gathering spot  this time, with a special focus on becoming a place for students and alumni.

When the Black Lab moved out of the space, University of St. Thomas was looking for more places for students and alumni to spend time, said Jeff Olsen, vice president of marketing at the university. The pub where students had already grown to love spending their time, he said, seemed a natural fit.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Estate sale is bittersweet for longtime patrons of shuttering Montrose pub

Updates to the space, which began in early spring, have been minimal to maintain the character of the friendly pub. The renovations include taking down wallpaper, putting up a fresh coat of paint, fixing sconces, replacing old carpeting and bringing in new furniture.

We love the way the Black Lab looks, and we love the way it makes our alumni feel because theyve spent so much time there, Olsen said.

The main bar is being readied as a space for alumni engagement events. When events are not being held, the plan is to sell coffee and grab-and-go meals that will be open to the public starting in fall of 2022.

Cezanne, the upstairs jazz venue affiliated with the Black Labrador, will also be used for community engagement. And the former Churchill Room, a room in the Black Labrador once reserved by large groups, has been turned into a lounge for students participating in the University of St. Thomass Rising Star program, which pairs students with part-time office jobs at some of Houstons largest corporations to earn funds toward tuition.

Gone are the golden letters spelling out the Black Labradors name or the picture of a dog looking out of a field. But the interior is mostly unchanged. Its multiple wooden bars and art deco lamps are still in place.

Alumni call it the Black Lab still, Olsen said of the space.

On HoustonChronicle.com: St. Thomas to pilot prep school internship program

On the other side of a yellow door  once the entrance to the Churchill Room  a dozen students gathered in whats now called the Rising Stars Lounge. The Rising Stars program, which is in its third year, has quickly grown from five students to a hundred. Most are the first in their families to attend university.

Around a table, students chatted and worked. Christopher Amaro, a freshman studying international business, was typing up a speech for his campaign for freshman senator.

Yasmine De La Rosa, a freshman who is working with the Houston Ballet through the program, was unwinding after an English Literature class. Tirranye Jones, a sophomore working part time with the Hackett Center for Mental Health through the program, pored over a finance textbook, part of the lounges nascent library. (Rising Stars Program Manager Daniel Garcia is seeking textbook donations.)

Jones said the lounge was an invaluable space, especially during the pandemic.

Last year, I was a freshman, and I really didnt have anywhere to go, she said. So, every time I needed somewhere to be to feel connected, Id come here  I felt like it was my own personal space, a safe haven.

rebecca.schuetz@chron.com;

twitter.com/raschuetz
LyondellBasell on Wednesday said a sale of its Houston crude oil refinery is among the options its considering.

The chemical company, with headquarters in Houston and the Netherlands, didnt disclose a potential asking price for the plant, which sits on 700 acres on the Houston Ship Channel. Analysts at Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. value it at $500 million to $800 million.

The refinery is one of the largest in the United States, capable of refining 268,000 barrels of oil per day of crude into transportation fuels such as reformulated gasoline, ultra-low sulfur diesel and jet fuel, as well as products like lubricants and petroleum coke.

"While the Houston Refinery is a valuable, well-performing asset, we have long held the belief that it may be even more valuable as part of a larger refining system," CEO Bob Patel said in a news release. "To that end, we are actively gauging market interest in this business with the goal of delivering the greatest value to all our stakeholders."

BOB PATEL: LyondellBasell CEO to take over W.R. Grace

The plant will likely take some time to sell, according to Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co. analyst Matthew Blair.

"The problem is there are no buyers," Blair said. "Valero would be the logical fit but they are focused on debt reduction and renewable diesel growth."

LyondellBasell took sole ownership of the Houston refinery in 2006 after buying out minority owner Citgo Petroleum.

The chemical company first attempted to sell the Houston refinery in 2016, but took it off the block in January 2017 after weighing potential offers.

Refineries took a hit during the pandemic as most travel came to a halt and demand for fuel plummeted.

Several refinery closings during the pandemic decreased U.S. refinery capacity by 4.5 percent to 18.1 million barrels per day at the start of 2021, according to the Energy Department.

While demand for gasoline and diesel fuel has returned to pre-pandemic levels, jet fuel demand remains depressed because of global aviation restrictions caused by the pandemic.

Other refiners also are looking to sell their plants, including Phillips 66. The Houston refiner last month said it is seeking a buyer for its Alliance refinery in Belle Chasse, La.
Mexico cut its forecast for oil production at Petroleos Mexicanos next year and reduced its tax burden after a string of accidents at offshore platforms signaled the highly indebted state company is struggling.

The countrys Finance Ministry lowered a preliminary estimate for crude output in 2022 to 1.826 million barrels a day, from a March 31 forecast of 1.867 million, according to a draft of next years budget proposal. Its also reducing the profit-sharing duty that Pemex has to pay the government to 40% next year, from 54% in 2021.

Pemex, as the state oil giant is known, posted a production increase last year after including a light oil known as condensate in its overall crude tally, and measuring output at a warmer temperature than government regulators. But the company continues to face output declines and reduced exports of its flagship Maya heavy crude, a problem that has been exacerbated by two offshore platform accidents in as many months, with the August explosion knocking a quarter of its output offline.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has promised to return Pemex to its former glory by scaling back the energy reforms of his predecessor, and thereby limiting competition from private companies. The measures have failed to win over international ratings agencies such as Moodys Investors Service and Fitch Ratings, which rate Pemex bonds as junk. The company has the highest debt of any major oil company.

On Monday, Lopez Obrador said that the government has begun a process of refinancing Pemexs debt, after the nation received a transfer of about $12 billion from the International Monetary Fund. Some observers are skeptical about whether the financial aid will be enough to move the needle on Pemexs debt and help it revive oil production.

In February, a presidential decree gave Pemex an additional 14% credit stimulus to apply to the taxes it pays on hydrocarbons, capped at 73.3 billion pesos.

The budget draft also increased the ministrys estimate for average oil prices next year to $55.10 a barrel, from $53.10.
To Mike Porterfield, promoting peace seemed like an easy sell. Who, really, could be against it, he wondered?

His year-and-a-half-long effort to design, create and find a home for a 23-foot peace monument at times seemed unreal. He thought NASA might make a good home for it, or even a local school, where it could be a beacon of hope for the future.

He found himself swimming in red tape and bureaucratic questions until a friend stepped in to help get it done. Everything eventually fell into place, and at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, the monument that he and his son, Houston Porterfield, designed and created will be dedicated in a ceremony at Clear Lake Park, one of many in the area to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks.

Conducted by Harris County Precinct 2 and the Rotary Club of Space Center, Porterfield and others will dedicate the monument, then the Rotarians will serve hamburgers and hot dogs. During the ceremony, another Porterfield son, Tyler, a professional musician in California, will perform the Peace Song that he wrote for the occasion.

The local monument is styled after the Freedom Tower located where the World Trade Center towers once stood in New York. Made of aluminum and recyclable materials, its a combination of triangles placed upside down and right side up at angles so it appears the four sides are actually eight. The words Peace through Understanding are written on it in eight languages, and when its finished, it will have a Rotary Club emblem on top.

When you talk about peace to people, some see something different, Mike said. Just like we go out and promoted ending polio, we can go out and promote peace in the same manner. Its about helping others, curing diseases and doing things for other people and for our society.

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Porterfield said the monument cost $35,000 to $40,000, though much of the expense was covered by donations of materials and labor by club members as well as by Porterfield and firms that hes done business with through the years. One such business was AVAdek, a Webster firm that makes metal canopies that shade walkways, carports and other sites.

Mike Porterfield founded Porterfield Architects and Associates more than 35 year ago in Clear Lake and has become a specialist in designing buildings for first responders, having designed more than 20 fire stations, several emergency medical services buildings and a handful of police department facilities in Texas. His son, Houston, is also an architect at the firm.

When Mike Porterfield moved to Clear Lake after college, his father, who was in a Pasadena Rotary Club, urged him to join one, too.

My father thought it would be best for me to join Rotary to meet new people and get involved in the community, Porterfield said. I was 28 years old, and was the youngest member in the club. Everyone else joining was in their 40s and 50s.

For the clubs 2019-2020 year, Porterfield was its president and the year prior, as president-elect, he and his wife went to the Rotary Club International meeting in Hamburg, Germany. There, he learned more about the work being done in the clubs peace committees, developing curriculum to teach children about peace, and returned home determined to make that the focus of his year as president.

Other chapters were creating small peace poles, but they were simple sticks in the ground, not structures anyone could call a tower or monument.

You could grab anything and paint it and call it a peace pole, Porterfield said. My son (Houston) and I are architects, so I decided we could create one that is much better and would be iconic and people could recognize.

Initially, Porterfield thought that a school or even NASA would be an ideal location, but it ended up at the busy park, where far more people will see  and, hopefully, be inspired by  it.

He hopes that other Rotary chapters will see it and want one of their own, promoting peace with each installation.

Precinct 2 County Commissioner Adrian Garcia embraced the tower for Clear Lake Park and dedicated money and labor to build a foundation and extend electricity for lighting it at the parks entrance.

diane.cowen@chron.com
My bank account is better off these days. During the summer months, I was draining funds to buy birdseed, bark butter and mealworms for backyard songbirds with insatiable appetites  and hungry chicks to nourish.

But theyve all vacated my yard, save for a few house finches perching on the feeders and a Carolina wren uttering a short song that sounds like teacher-teacher-teacher.

Gone are pugnacious mockingbirds pilfering the tray of mealworms meant for nesting bluebirds, which have also departed. Gone are the pesky house sparrows that hog the birdseed. Gone is the horde of white-winged doves crowding around the birdfeeder. And gone are the downy and red-bellied woodpeckers that feasted on bark butter I dutifully spread on the trunk of a sweetgum tree.

Where have all the sonbirds gone?

They wandered off in a phenomenon known as post-breeding dispersal, engendered by hormonal changes that create a kind of restlessness. Perhaps they grew weary from competing with other birds for food and are searching for places with fewer competitors. Not to mention that they taking a break from the rigors of raising chicks.

Chores during songbird dispersal Time to do house cleaning for backyard birds during their temporary dispersal and before northern migratory birds arrive to spend the winter in our yards. Scrub nest boxes and birdfeeders with a mild solution of water and bleach. Clean purple martin houses and cap the entrance holes to nesting compartments or store the martin house in your garage. Clean thistle seed feeders before American goldfinches begin migrating here in November and December. Clean scum out of birdbaths and continue re-filling them with fresh water daily. Install bird-friendly plants available at native plant stores such as Buchanan's Native Plants, buchanansplants.com; The Arbor Gate, arborgate.com; Enchanted Nurseries & Landscaping, myenchanted.com. See More Collapse

After the chicks grew to become juveniles, they eventually began molting into their first coat of adult plumage  and they were ready to strike out on their own. Thats a good thing because their departure prevents inbreeding with siblings, which would degrade the gene pool of their species.

Carolina wren parents stay put, being quintessential homebodies. Their offspring only wander to other parts of the neighborhood because wrens maintain family ties within communities wed call small towns.

Woodpeckers dont go far off, and soon they will return to their backyard territory. Same with bluebirds. In fact, I just saw a male perched on his nest box as the female poked her head out of the entrance hole. But woodpecker and bluebird youngsters may go off to search for their own breeding territories.

Cardinals will be back on the birdfeeders any day now. Males will utter cheer-cheer-cheer notes at sunrise. But cardinals dont necessarily return to the same nesting ground, as do woodpeckers and bluebirds. Not that I could tell one pair of cardinals from another that had nested in my yard in the spring.

A new group of birds that bred in northern regions will soon migrate to my yard to spend the winter. These will include perky songbirds, such as ruby-crowned kinglets and woodpeckers called yellow-bellied sapsuckers.

Wait! Isnt that a kinglet scurrying around my sweetgum tree?

Gary Clark is the author of Book of Texas Birds, with photography by Kathy Adams Clark (Texas A&M University Press). Email him at Texasbirder@comcast.net.
Courtesy photo

The hours are long, but the passion runs with this years grape harvest. The grape harvest is in a frenzy in the Texas Hill Country and Texas High Plains. Those huge grape harvesting machines are running up and down the rows of grape vines in the Texas High Plains. The land on the Texas High Plains is flat so those grape harvesting machines are running long hours during the night and cool morning hours. Each one of those harvesting machines can do the work of a 100-man crew each day. With the acute labor shortage, the grape are still coming in. Of course there are a few small vineyards that are still hand-harvested and mostly with volunteers.

The conclusion across the state of Texas is that the grapes quality is awesome. These grapes should make more Double Gold Medal-winning wines. The bad news is that the grape harvest is not as large as many had hoped it would be. Blame the small harvest on the Februarys severe freeze. Many of the primary buds on the vines were literally frozen making them non-productive. Those grape vines had protected secondary and tertiary buds which provided grapes but in limited quantities. Wineries and vineyard managers know that limiting the quantity of grapes can help to assure better grape quality. The vines root system can concentrate the grapes substance in the limited quantity. Too many grapes on a vine can lower the quality of the grapes since the vines root system can sustain only a certain amount of grapes without impacting quality of those grapes. However, the severe freeze limited the quantity on the vines in many areas of Texas to less grapes than what was hoped for the grape harvest. Assuming all other variables the same, the grapes would be of better quality. Those vineyard managers continue to accommodate their grapes needs throughout the growing season to provide excellent quality in those grapes.
Virginia Houk and her husband moved back to Texas intending to send their daughter to in-person school, but two weeks into the year they pulled her out of kindergarten because they didnt feel that she was safe.

Before moving back to the United States the family was living in Japan and felt very comfortable putting their two young children to daycare and school. They moved back to the Conroe area this past summer ready to put their daughter into the classroom with her peers. They wanted her to be in class where she could socialize.

We came beck expressly for the purpose of her being able to start kindergarten with everybody else, Houk said.

Houk grew up in this area and she and her husband met while teaching in CISD. They still believe the district is a strong one academically but they dont feel comfortable sending their kindergartner into the classroom as cases are spiking, masks are not being mandated, and she is too young for the vaccine.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Conroe ISD leader warns of impact as COVID cases increase

When they visited her teachers at the annual meet the teacher night they noted that her teacher was not wearing a mask, and none of the others in her grade were either. Houk expressed her concerns to her daughters teacher who recommended that they apply for the districts limited virtual program this semester based on her concerns. But Houk knows her daughter and she knows that a virtual program wouldnt work for her.

I really cant imagine my 5-year-old doing school online, Houk said.

Cases were rising and Houk kept receiving notifications of COVID cases at her daughters school, so she kept her home during the second week of school. She contacted the school and asked what they could do if they didnt feel safe sending her to school, but didnt want to apply for the virtual option. They were told to un-enroll her, but that she could be enrolled again without difficulty in the future.

That was really disappointing. Honestly, we cried about it, Houk said. It was not something that was something we ever would have imagined or wanted.

For now, her daughter will be homeschooled until she can get vaccinated or masks are mandated. Houk hopes to send her daughter back in January.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Montgomery County faces record-high number of kids with COVID-19

Cases in the county have been spiked beyond previous records. Active cases as of Sept. 8 were at 13,756, bringing the total number of cases to 78,534. Last month the county reported 2,455 COVID cases in children ages up to 11, too young to receive the vaccine. Hospitalizations in the county have now surpassed 400.

While there are some school districts in the state mandating masks, Conroe ISD is not one of them. But Superintendent Curtis Null has strongly recommended both masks and the vaccine to the CISD community on multiple occasions.

Gov. Greg Abbotts executive order GA-38 prohibits local governing bodied, like school boards, from mandating masks. The order is not being enforced currently by TEA as it is being challenged in the courts.

As requested by the Montgomery County Public Health Authority in their letter of advisement, Conroe ISD strongly recommends the wearing of masks since Executive Order GA-38 prohibits mask mandates, CISD spokesperson Sarah Blakelock said in a statement. TEA did not suspend GA-38, but advised on September 2nd that it could not be enforced as a result of ongoing litigation. Montgomery County does not have a mask order, as in other counties, which makes it clear that our guidance defaults to the Governors Executive Order. Should the courts rule otherwise, the Board of Trustees will make a decision on whether or not masks will be required.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Mom says her child wont go to school as she waits for virtual option

Last month, the Montgomery County Public Health Authority, Charles Sims, has issued two letters to local school districts. One before school started and one on Aug. 24, both recommended masks.

Texas is a large state and mask requirement may not be appropriate everywhere, but in Montgomery County, there is a public health emergency and it requires immediate action, Sims wrote in his Aug. 24 letter. I recommend that as School Superintendents and School Board Members, you require mask utilization by all students, staff, and teachers in Montgomery County schools and buses to try to prevent further spread of COVID 19 within the school system.

The district is balancing a number of effects from the pandemic along with unexpected elements like enrollment. This year enrollment surpassed what CISD was expecting. Typically the district plans for around 1,500 new students each year, but this year CISD had an increase of over 3,000. Enrollment on Sept. 8 last year was 64,268 students and the district planned for a projected enrollment of 66,298 students. As of Wednesday, CISD had 67,659 students enrolled. This means more students in classrooms and on buses than were expected.

At the same time, the district is also dealing with a shortage of necessary staff, including teachers and bus drivers. More students, not enough staff, not enough subs, and as of Tuesday afternoon the district had 126 employees isolated due to COVID or COVID symptoms. The limited virtual program the district set up for students too young to get the vaccine is facing challenges of its own, including having some classes canceled because virtual teachers have to cover other in-person classes due to staff shortages.

Even though her daughter is no longer enrolled in CISD Houk is still involved with the district. She has spoken at past board meetings in favor of a mask mandate and started an online petition to get one that has 3,700 signatures as of Wednesday. She created a Facebook page for a CISD chapter of Families United For Student Safety, a grassroots movement of parents advocating for COVID safety measures in schools. She understands that the district is in a difficult position right now.

I do fully understand how complicated and difficult this situation is and I know that everybody is handling it differently, Houk said. Im a parent in a really difficult situation just trying to do my best.

jamie.swinnerton@chron.com
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is blaming staffing shortages for a decision to shut down 11 license branches around the state for at least the next four weeks.

The closures began Tuesday and are scheduled to last through Oct. 2. The action was needed to reallocate workers to the agencys 118 other branches, BMV spokeswoman Christine Meyer said.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Matt Williams, The Conversation

(THE CONVERSATION) On Sept. 9, 1971, nearly 1,300 incarcerated men at Attica Correctional Facility in New York state took control of the facility, prompting a multiday standoff with authorities that ended in a massacre.

The incident resulted in the deaths of 43 people, many of them inmates, and marked an important moment in the prisoners rights movement in the United States. The men behind what has variously been described as a riot, rebellion and uprising at Attica were demanding improvements to medical and food supplies behind bars, greater visitation rights and an end to insanitary conditions and guard brutality.

The uprising took place before the huge increase in Americas prison population in the 1980s and 1990s. But as The Conversations authors have explained in recent months, many of the grievances raised by the Attica prisoners  health care, visitation rights, brutality and neglect  remain a concern for todays incarcerated men and women. Here are four essential reads:

Behind bars and suffering from dementia

Americas prisons are facing a growing aging population. Research shows that by 2030, almost one-third of all incarcerated people will be over the age of 55. Rachel Lopez, a law professor at Drexel University and former commissioner on Pennsylvanias Sentencing Commission, explains how the aging population will place an additional burden on authorities: Research has shown that by the end of this decade, up to 210,000 elderly prisoners will have dementia. The cost of their medical upkeep will fall on taxpayers.

Moreover, keeping someone with dementia behind bars is, Lopez argues, an affront to human dignity and may even violate the United States Constitutions prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.

Forcing those who cannot understand their punishment to live the remainder of their days behind bars appears to be exactly the type of excessive and cruel punishment that the Eighth Amendment was meant to protect against, Lopez writes.

Prisoners with intellectual disabilities

The elderly are not the only vulnerable population being kept behind bars. In March 2021, the Bureau of Justice Statistics revealed that around a quarter of the 24,848 incarcerated people it surveyed across 364 prisons had an intellectual, developmental or cognitive disability. Across the entire prison and jail network, that would equate to some 550,000 people. Jennifer Sarrett of Emory University conducted in-depth interviews with several adults within the criminal justice system who have intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Prisoners with these disabilities are at greater risk of serving longer, harder sentences, Sarrett notes.

They also run the risk of exploitation and abuse  both from other incarcerated people and from prison staff. As one man explained to Sarrett, officers look to see who only watches TV and never reads, marking them out for exploitation: Some of the corrections officers  theyll slide up onto the disability boy and use him, you know, making him feel like This is my dog. This is my boy right here. Come and do this for me.

Meanwhile, needing extra time to process instructions  particularly in high-stress situations  can be interpreted as obstinacy by prison officers. In turn this can lead to prisoners with intellectual disabilities being written up for disciplinary issues, which can result in time added to a persons sentence, removal of certain privileges or solitary confinement. A 2018 study found that over 4,000 people with serious mental health concerns were being held in solitary confinement in the U.S.

Guard brutality still an issue

Between 2012 and 2016, 128 state and federal prisoners died as a result of homicide or accident, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Those were the most recent figures available to Heather Schoenfeld of Boston University when she wrote an article for The Conversation in July 2020 looking at violence by corrections officers. Another problem with the data other than it not being up to date: The agency does not distinguish in the figures between incidents involving prison staff and prisoner-on-prisoner violence.

In the absence of detailed and reliable data, what we do have are accounts of sadistic and retaliatory violence by prison guards against people in prison, Schoenfeld writes.

She describes an ongoing humanitarian crisis in U.S. prisons of excessive force by corrections officers that has only been made worse by understaffing and overcrowding. Studies show that officers who work in chaotic and hostile work environments are more likely to adopt an us vs. them mentality and resort to retaliatory violence, she writes.

She adds: Similar to excessive police force, brutality by prison officers is part of systemic state violence against people of color, and Black people specifically.

COVID-19 and visitation rights

Brutality and neglect are not the only things killing Americas incarcerated population. Prisoners have been particularly vulnerable during the coronavirus pandemic. Incarcerated men and women living in cramped indoor conditions with only basic sanitation and poor ventilation are at higher risk of infection and death from the virus.

They have also face being isolated from their families for extended periods as a result of lockdown measures. Alexander Testa and Chantal Fahmy at The University of Texas at San Antonio looked at the effect this has had on the prisoners families.

The two scholars surveyed 500 people with a loved one serving time behind bars in Texas during the summer of 2020. What they found was a high level of concern.

My son has been locked in a cell with temperatures over 100 degrees for up to 23-plus hours a day for weeks on end now due to COVID, one 74-year-old woman told Testa and Fahmy. I fear he will either perish from the conditions or somehow take his own life.

The concern was not only of the risk of infection but also the sudden removal of visitation rights.

During the pandemic Texas prisons severely limited all types of contact with the outside world  including video and phone calls. Visitation was barred completely on March 13, 2020, and only resumed a year later.

Reflecting on the this, alongside other grievances including deplorable living conditions and lack of medical and dental care, one mother of an incarcerated person commented: We dont incarcerate, we torture.

[Get the best of The Conversation, every weekend. Sign up for our weekly newsletter.]

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/on-50th-anniversary-of-attica-uprising-4-essential-reads-on-prisoners-rights-today-167591.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  Some hospitals in rural parts of West Virginia have reached their critical bed capacities as coronavirus cases and deaths continue to surge statewide, health officials said Wednesday.

Health officials are pleading with the public to avoid unnecessary emergency room visits to allow hospitals to focus their resources on treating COVID-19 patients.

There were 813 patients hospitalized for the virus statewide Wednesday, just below the record 818 on Jan. 5 when vaccination efforts were starting. There are a record 252 virus patients in hospital ICUs and a record 132 patients on ventilators, according to state data.

Our hospitals are being stressed in ways that they havent been stressed before," Dr. Clay Marsh, the state's coronavirus expert, said at a news conference.

In southern West Virginia, Princeton Community Hospital has no ICU beds available due to an increase in COVID-related patients, hospital President and CEO Karen Bowling said Wednesday. The hospital has 128 beds for acute patients and an ICU capacity of 18.

Bowling said people with emergency needs should still come to the hospital. Incoming patients will stay in the emergency department until a bed becomes available, either at the hospital or somewhere else.

In Lewisburg in the southeastern corner of the state, the 122-bed Greenbrier Valley Medical Center also is at capacity, according to a Facebook post from Dr. Bridgett Morrison, Greenbrier County's health officer. Visitors to the hospital are now banned due to an increase in COVID-19 cases, and the hospital is conducting virus tests only as part of an emergency room visit for patients with virus symptoms, the hospital said on its Facebook page.

Telephone messages left with Morrison and the hospital weren't immediately returned Wednesday.

Some hospitals in other parts of the state recently hit a seven-day average of 90% of their ICU bed capacity, according to federal data.

Were all on high alert, Bowling said. Other facilities also have a high level of patients that are needing critical care, too.

Statewide the number of positive virus cases last week in West Virginia, about 7,800, were the second-highest for one week since the start of the pandemic. The number of active cases have doubled since Aug. 23 to more than 22,000.

There have been 45 virus deaths reported statewide since Sunday and 95 so far this month, double that from the entire month of July. There have been 3,169 virus deaths since the start of the pandemic.

While the seven-day trend of infections shows the virus in every age group, 16% of infections involve children under age 12  too young to be vaccinated for the virus, according to federal recommendations.

Gov. Jim Justice, Bowling and others have pleaded with unvaccinated residents to get their shots. About 59% of residents over age 12 are fully vaccinated and 73% have received one dose.

Its critical as we get through this spike that theres not another spike, Bowling said.

About 83% of people currently hospitalized for the virus in West Virginia are unvaccinated, including 90% of ICU patients, said James Hoyer, a retired major general leading the states coronavirus task force.

Justice has refused pleas to issue another indoor mask mandate. An earlier mandate was lifted in June.

I dont want to sound like a tough guy, but Im not going to be afraid of anybody," Justice said. "Im going to try with all in me to make the very best decisions for everybody.

___

Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
Houston Chronicle file

Houston City Attorney Dick Lewis threw cold water on plans to build a stadium on a 50-acre site in Memorial Park. The stadium would be used by local schools.

What happened? Well, the deeds to Memorial Park stipulated that the land was purchased for "park purposes only" and that if the city tried to convey title to the school district, the title to the entire park site would be revert back to the Hogg family or Varner Realty Company. (This came up again when the idea to erect a new stadium there in the 1960s was floated.)
When Loren Blanchard first arrived at the University of Houston-Downtown as its newest president, the campus felt a little lonely. Restrictions and safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic meant most students, who commute, were taking classes online, and his first few weeks were focused on mitigating the virus and planning a full reopening for this fall.

Still, Blanchard came to the campus almost daily.

I wanted to see the environment and feel it and experience it, he said.

More from Brittany Britto: Some Texas colleges to alter fall semester plans, as delta variant spreads

Since his March arrival, Blanchard, UHDs seventh president, has embarked on a campus listening tour  meeting with 140 community leaders and more than 1,100 community members. Hes sat in on classes, wandered through UHDs hallways, and conversed with staff and faculty about the commuter colleges legacy, pride, community, and signature programs. Hes heard concerns, suggestions and not so gentle reminders about much-needed improvements, but also raves about UHD's diversity, accessibility and affordability.

What I learned during these visits and listening tour sessions is that this university is valued, respected and needed in Houston and the surrounding region, Blanchard said during his State of the University address Wednesday.

But now, its time to shake up the understanding of UHD as a commuter school, he said.

No longer must UHD be viewed as merely a sister institution within the University of Houston System, but rather a vital regional university that serves Houstonians and Texans, he said.

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Blanchard has outlined various initiatives for the minority-serving institution, which sits in the heart of downtown and educates more than 15,000 students, of whom more than half who are Hispanic and 21 percent are African American.

Student success and UHDs commitment to educating and supporting a diverse student population, however, is first and foremost, he said. Its been part of Blanchards mission and experience, not only as the former vice chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at California State University and provost of Xavier University, an HBCU in New Orleans, but also as a first-generation college graduate of HBCU, himself.

It was transformational for my life, said Blanchard of his education, and ensuring other students can complete their education and benefit from the resulting opportunities is an important goal for UHD moving forward. This means also improving the colleges six-year graduation rate of 30 percent.

I have long repeated this mantra during my time in higher education, and it is fitting for this university: Once a student is enrolled, then the clock begins ticking on our responsibility to make sure they persist and graduate, he said. ... As that clock begins ticking, it is imperative that students have the support they need to reach the finish line with degrees in hand, ready for the road ahead.

To serve students, though, its important to understand the population and the inequities they might face and to help ensure those inequities dont linger with these students as they complete their degrees and go on to professional school or a career, Blanchard said.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Some Houston-area districts still can't hire enough teachers and staff, weeks after schools reopened

Many UHD students work jobs, full-time or part-time, and might need more accommodations when it comes to their class schedule or how the class is delivered. Of the 13,358 students who attended last fall, nearly 50 percent were part-time and Pell Grant eligible, according to Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board data.

But to offer more support to students in need, the school, too, needs more money and resources, Blanchard said. While the University of Houston flagship receives $9,118 per full-time student, UHD, which has proportionately fewer full-time students, UHD receives $5,315. Blanchard says UHD will be asking for more support from the state.

Following this recent biennium, it is clear that the University must continue to communicate its story to our state legislature.... Our mission, our accomplishments and our increasing size warrant significant support from the state we serve, he said.

Mark Mulligan, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Under Blanchard, the university has also launched Determined, Dedicated, Downtown, a new campaign that will replace its Finish UHD Strong slogan and convey its mission to ensure students stay the course, get their degree and become leaders in their community. Hes highlighted hopes to improve campus infrastructure, increase enrollment, prepare reports for upcoming accreditation, and continue to mitigate COVID-19 on campus and its lingering effects on higher education. He also promises that the campus will grow with additional parking, a future Student Union, and the anticipated Student Wellness and Success Center, which will include an updated fitness center, learning spaces, lounge areas and resources for physical and mental wellness.

Retaining and nurturing employees is also a part of the universitys strategic plan, Blanchard said. The university has launched a study to evaluate salaries at other colleges in hopes of ensuring UHDs salaries are comparable and to help recruit and retain faculty and staff.

We dont always pay as close attention to what faculty and staff need to be successful, he said, and often people assume that by hiring them, theyre prepared enough. We really do want to make sure we continue to invest in their success and provide opportunities outside of the university to faculty and staff of color who are often difficult to retain.

The role of a university president during a pandemic has been no easy feat. COVID-19 has forced colleges to be as nimble as possible, with the goal of still promising quality -- no matter the delivery of education or services, Blanchard said. Though UHD has had some preparation considering 30 percent of its classes were already offered online pre-pandemic, Blanchard still believes the school can take it up a notch - offering improved customer service to students, whether that be in-person or remotely.

Despite these needs for improvement, Blanchard said he's been reassured that UHD is ascending.

It is not just a university in Houston, but a university for Houston, he said. And Im honored to serve as its president..

brittany.britto@chron.com
Some school districts in the Houston region are seeing more staff vacancies and experiencing more difficulty filling substitute teacher roles this school year, due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ongoing national teacher shortage has been exacerbated by teachers health concerns and frustrations over districts COVID responses. Adding to the problem in Texas, some say, is a lack of state guidance and funding for paid leave for staff who miss work due to exposure to the virus.

Katy ISD, for example, had more than 500 jobs open as of Wednesday, 21 days after the district welcomed student back to campus for the 2021-22 school year. Of those openings, 146 were teacher positions.

On HoustonChronicle.com: As COVID cases rise, Houston-area school districts prepare shutdown contingencies

It is not alone.

Santa Fe ISD has seen a rise in vacancies and resignations in several areas, including food service, transportation and custodial workers, spokeswoman Patti Hanssard said.

Goose Creek CISD had 279 job openings as of Wednesday, including 51 food service positions, 30 transportation workers, 26 custodial employees and more than 20 open special education roles.

These positions are harder to fill due to COVID, communications director Kristyn Cathey said.

National surveys indicate a growing number of educators and school staff now want to leave their professions due to lagging support and pay, which is expected to lead to a shortage of qualified job candidates in the coming years.

Of the 2,690 teachers surveyed by the National Education Association in June, 32 percent said the pandemic has prompted them to leave their jobs earlier than they had intended. A RAND Corporation study, also released in June found that nearly one in four teachers may leave their jobs at the end of this school year.

Nearly a month into its school year, Fort Bend ISD is trying to hire 102 additional full-time teachers, 135 bus drivers and 35 nutrition workers, among other openings, spokeswoman Sherry Williams said.

Vacancies in Alief ISD fluctuate daily, spokesman Craig Eichhorn said, but by the end of August there were 101 vacancies in professional campus roles, 95 of which were teaching positions. Most of the job openings in the districts 46 campuses are in bilingual and special education; the remaining are nurse and librarian positions.

Houston ISD announced last month it would move more than 250 administrative staff with teaching credentials into classrooms to ensure the school year started with a certified teacher in all core subjects in the district. A spokesperson said the district has made some progress hiring since the beginning of the school year, but still has 294 teacher vacancies as of Thursday.

Other districts, including Waller and Barbers Hill ISDs report few unfilled jobs this school year or are seeing vacancies on-par with non-pandemic years.

Finding enough substitute teacher also is proving more difficult than usual for some districts, including some that have few unfilled jobs.

Santa Fe ISD, for example, had filled about half of its substitute requests so far this year, prompting the school board to approve a pay increase to assist with recruitment and to remain competitive with neighboring districts, Hanssard said.

Since that time, we have limited campus and district-wide professional development during the school day for the remainder of the month of September and our fill rate has increased by at least 35 percent, she added.

On Wednesday, Conroe ISD had a total of 158 unfilled substitute positions in the district, according to the school systems online COVID dashboard.

Clear Creek ISD has filled an average of 76 percent of requests for substitutes, compared to a typical average of 95 percent.

We are experiencing difficulty in retaining substitutes based on their individual health concerns, spokeswoman Elaina Polsen said.

Further complicating matters for some is a lack of paid time off for employees who miss work due to exposure to the virus.

This is an emergency, said Clay Robison, spokesman for the Texas State Teachers Association, a union representing educators. If districts really want to encourage everyone to do the right thing and quarantine when they need to, we shouldnt be financially penalizing them for doing so.

COVID numbers have steadily increased in Texas schools, with the number of infected students nearly doubling in a week by Aug. 29.

Losing pay to meet district quarantine requirements already is devastating many support staff, such as cafeteria workers and bus drivers, said Nikki Cowart, president of Cy-Fair AFT, a union representing school workers in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. The district is requiring employees to use their regular leave for COVID-related absences.

Workers are frantically reaching out to me because they are already living paycheck-to-paycheck, she said. This is causing chaos and turmoil because they cant afford this. They may not be able to put food on the table or make rent because they have to be isolated for 10 days.

The Texas Education Agency declared in a July statement that districts have the exclusive authority to make leave determinations in accordance with federal law.

The 2020 Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which required employers to offer paid sick leave as well as expanded family and medical leave, expired on Dec. 31. 2020. The 2021 American Rescue Plan Act extended emergency paid sick leave only until Sept. 30.

Houston-area districts have adopted varying policies.

In Barbers Hill ISD, employees have to use regular sick time if they must miss work for COVID-related reasons.

If they go over their allotted leave days, they will be docked accordingly, spokeswoman Jami Navarre said.

The Waller ISD Board of Trustees voted to give employees five COVID leave days that can be used when staff have symptoms of the virus, are exposed to it or must care for an immediate family member.

Crosby ISD is offering up to five days leave for the virus, but only for staff who have positive COVID tests. The district only will give special leave for half of the time an employee is out.

In Galena Park ISD, employees can use up to 8 days of paid leave for specified reasons related to positive COVID-19 results, said Sherrhonda Hunter, the districts executive director for school and community relations.

Full-time Santa Fe ISD staff can receive up to 10 days of COVID leave when they show administrators proof of their positive test results.

If an employee must quarantine or take care of a family member who has tested positive for COVID -19 or must personally quarantine, (they) must use their own personal leave time, Hanssard said. We do not offer a virtual option for employees to work from home.

Staff in Spring ISD must use their normal allotment of leave to take time off because of the virus. However, if the employee has a positive COVID test, the district will credit back up to five days of leave. If staff are forced to miss more than five days of work due to any illness, they must provide a doctors note to their supervisors.

Houston ISD is giving employees who are fully vaccinated or are medically unable to receive the inoculation up to 10 days of paid leave for COVID-related absences. Those who choose to be unvaccinated must use their personal leave to isolate.

If districts want to retain needed staff during the pandemic, Cowart said local school boards must find a way to pay for staff COVID leave for up to 10 days, as federal relief funds previously did.

Robison said with the Sept. 20 special session approaching, he hopes state legislators will allocate funding for districts to do so.

hannah.dellinger@chron.com
Each week, a team of Chronicle reporters fields questions about the COVID-19 pandemic. For this weeks COVID Help Desk, we answer questions about booster vaccines, masks with respirator valves and whether Houston could see another pop-up medical shelter.

In the first harried weeks of the pandemic, as hospitals buckled under the first wave of coronavirus patients, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo was eager to avoid the dire scenes playing out in Italy and New York: She called for the construction of a pop-up medical shelter at NRG Park.

The $17 million makeshift hospital, filled with camp beds beneath a series of large white tents, was never used. It closed just weeks after it opened, when health officials determined area hospitals could withstand their surging caseload. Few then could have predicted the virus trajectory.

More than a year later, hospitals are once again besieged by coronavirus patients. Many children are among them. Will the county re-open its field hospital?

MORE COVID NEWS: Texas pediatric COVID hospitalizations hit record high over the weekend

Its possible.

Hidalgo is ready to re-open an overflow facility the minute local hospital officials request it, her spokesman, Rafael Lemaitre, told the Chronicle. Contingency plans are in place at several unidentified facilities to add emergency space for local hospitals dealing with the latest surge, he said. NRG Park will not be used this time around.

But the biggest need is not space. Its staffing.

As of Wednesday, more than 720 patients, 95 of them critical, waited in Houston-area emergency departments for an available bed, according to the Southeast Texas Regional Advisory Council. Meanwhile, local hospitals are grappling with a nationwide nursing shortage exacerbated by high turn-over and burnout among staff.

After area hospitals reported grave staffing shortfalls, the Harris County Commissioners Court last month approved $30 million to send more nurses to Houston-area hospitals strained by the surge in COVID-19 patients, many of whom are unvaccinated. Health officials say it may not be enough to confront the latest wave.

Throughout this crisis, nurses and medical staff have worked long hours, spent time away from their families and sacrificed so much to help us pull through this crisis, Lemaitre said. The least we can do to help them right now is reinforce them with additional staff, but also to urge residents who have not gotten vaccinated to do so.

Health agencies are studying the possibility of boosters for Pfizer vaccine recipients. Why are Pfizer boosters fast-tracked?

Earlier this month, the White House scaled back its plans to offer coronavirus booster shots to the general public by Sept. 20, citing the need for further review. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention then said it would consider whether to recommend boosters only for recipients of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Pfizer may come first because it is the only vaccine with full approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, said Dr. Wesley Long, an infectious disease expert at Houston Methodist. The Moderna vaccine and the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine are approved for emergency use, but do not yet have full FDA approval.

On HoustonChronicle.com: They survived COVID, but unseen brain damage is leaving them foggy and forgetful

The Pfizer vaccine is on a faster schedule simply because there is more high-quality evidence proving its efficacy, said Dr. Peter Hotez, professor at Baylor College of Medicine and director of Texas Children's Center for Vaccine Development. Pfizer is the major vaccine used in Israel, he said, and Israeli academics have been really out in front collecting the data.

Unfortunately, the U.S. winds up being dependent on Israel and the United Kingdom to provide our vaccine effectiveness data, Hotez continued. Our CDC has come up small, unfortunately, in terms of collecting vaccine effectiveness data.

With boosters on the horizon, is it possible to be over-vaccinated?

In short: not likely.

But scientists still need to study the risk of severe complications with any booster shot, said Hotez. They need to determine, for example, whether instances of a very rare heart condition known as myocarditis may increase with Pfizer and Moderna boosters.

I doubt it. But we want to confirm that, Hotez said.

For now, vaccine recipients should feel well-protected; vaccine efficacy is not waning against severe disease, said Dr. Hana M. El Sahly, professor of molecular virology, microbiology and infectious diseases at Baylor College.

Of more than 173 million fully vaccinated Americans, about 13,000 people have contracted a breakthrough infection that resulted in hospitalization or death, according to the CDC. That puts vaccinated peoples risk of severe disease at 0.0075 percent.

The booster shot seems to be safe. Is it needed? That is what CDC and the FDA are debating, said El Sahly.

Are masks with respirator valves as effective as those without?

Masks are here to stay. Unfortunately, not all masks are created equal.

Masks with exhalation valves or vents put both the wearer and anyone in their vicinity at risk, experts said. Filtration units rarely work as promised, providing a pathway for virus droplets to enter and escape. The CDC has strongly discouraged their use.

If you are letting exhaled breath pass for comfort, that is not gong to stop spread of COVID, said Long, of Houtson Methodist.

Some companies, including many airlines, have taken note, banning the use of any mask that does not fully cover the wearers face  including those with vents or valves.

Doctors recommend high-quality cloth masks or standard surgical masks that have been proven effective against the spread of coronavirus.

No need to get fancy, El Sahly said.

nora.mishanec@chron.com
Since 2020, when the word coronavirus entered the average Americans vocabulary, bow-tied vaccine researcher Peter Hotez has become one of the countrys  and Houstons  most visible explainers of science.

Hes dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine. And at Texas Childrens Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, he and his team have created a COVID-19 vaccine that can be produced in large quantities for a low cost  a global vaccine for a global pandemic.

Lets start the way we usually start: Whats the COVID situation in Houston right now?

What were seeing across Texas is bad. The only possible silver lining is that the number of new cases seems to have hit a bit of a plateau.

Thats actually true in many parts of the South. And in some places, like Florida, its even going down now.

But I dont think we really know what that means. If you remember, the United Kingdom was about a month ahead of us with the delta variant. Their terrible delta wave went from 5,000 new cases a day to 40,000 new cases, then it went down to 20,000 new cases a day.

People thought, Well, thats it. That was what had happened in India: It had a long tail, but it dropped. But then in the U.K. it stuck at 20,000 for quite a long time, and now its going back up to 30,000.

So I dont think we really know. The scientific community is a bit divided. Some people feel things will now continue to go down in Texas and elsewhere in the South, maybe with a long tail. But a lot of us think its not going to go down nearly enough.

Thats because our schools opened. Were seeing a lot of transmission in the schools, and a lot of kids getting sick  in some cases from each other, in some cases from their parents. We even had that tragic case from the recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report: Kids were infected by an unvaccinated teacher.

So I dont know whats going to happen here for the next few weeks. I think best case scenario, it slowly goes down. Worst case scenario, the graph forms this small hill, it goes down a little bit, and then it remains almost level for the rest of 2021.

On HoustonChronicle.com: What you need to know about the COVID mu variant, WHO's latest 'variant of interest'

Thats possible because were still underachieving in terms of vaccination. If you look at the vaccination rates in Harris County, its not so terrible. In Fort Bend, its pretty good. But when you get up to Liberty County or Waller County or move into East Texas, its terrible.

In Shelby County, only 25 percent of the countys vaccinated, so whats to stop this virus from just plowing through it? East Texas is one of the worst affected places in the country right now. That was predicted and predictable.

And preventable! Predicted, predictable and preventable! Thats whats so tragic.

I think were still in for a very rough period here in Texas as we move into the fall.

Are there theories about why it plateaued and then went back up in the U.K.?

I dont think we really understand it. They did a better job vaccinating the country than we did, but it still wasnt enough. With this delta variant, the bar has become super high because it is so transmissible  two or three times as transmissible as the original COVID-19 virus.

The more transmissible a virus agent is, the more people you need to vaccinate to stop the virus from spreading. The best example of that is measles, which is so highly transmissible.

The reason we see measles outbreaks in this country now more frequently than we used to is that vaccination coverage went down below 90 percent. Thats all it took.

With delta, we may need to get the 85 percent vaccination coverage in the U.S. to shut it down.

Thats 85 percent of the total population, not just the people who are eligible?

Thats 85 percent of everyone, everybody. Since children arent eligible, that basically means all the adults and all the adolescents.

You might say thats not possible. Well, of course it is! We do it for measles, Massachusetts and Vermont are getting there. Thats why COVID transmission is so low there now. That has the collateral benefit of protecting their little kids. Here, little kids are often getting it from their unvaccinated parents.

Plus, those are also the states that have mandates and even vaccination requirements. All those things work together to protect kids.

Here in Texas, unfortunately, many school districts have no mask mandates, and certainly no COVID vaccine mandates. Having the mandates is not even part of the culture. Now were seeing what happens: The schools cant sustain in-person learning, and they go back to virtual learning.

We talked about this last time: You cant just stamp your feet and say, Weve got to have our kids do in-person classes. We all get the importance of in-person classes. But then nobody wanted to put the policies in place to make that doable.

MORE Q&A WITH LISA GRAY: The pandemic's next stage is endemic COVID. Here's what that would look like.

To make in-person classes safe, youd have to require that everybody who walks into a school, whether its a bus driver or teacher or student, has a mask on. The possible exception would be the special needs kids who cant do it.

And also, everybody would have to be vaccinated.

If we had done that, we wouldnt have so many kids getting sick. This weekend, Texas set a record for pediatric hospitalizations. We had over 300 hospitalized kids in Texas every day this week.

The policy makers operated as though this is the old-fashioned COVID that that we did pretty well with over the last year. Despite warnings from the scientific community, they were not able to adjust their thinking to the delta variant.

Do scientists still believe that delta is not targeting kids relative to grownups? They think that so many kids are getting sick simply because theres so much virus loose in the state?

It may turn out to be that kids are disproportionately infected, but it doesnt look that way so far. I think its just that delta is so highly transmissible, and its sweeping through unvaccinated populations.

Whats interesting is the effect of vaccination rates on pediatric hospitalizations and pediatric cases: Pediatric hospitalizations are much lower in areas with this high vaccine coverage. Its a collateral benefit of the vaccine. Even though the little kids arent vaccinated, if youre a little kid in Vermont, or Massachusetts, you have a far lower risk of getting sick or being hospitalized.

Does the high transmission rate that were seeing in Texas mean that we could be a breeding ground for new variants?

It could. But look, right now, delta is pretty much your nightmare variant already. It is so highly transmissible, and now it looks like its spreading in the face of waning immunity. There may be some partial resistance to the vaccine in terms of lower virus neutralizing antibodies, but I think the combination of delta and waning immunity is why were in this really difficult situation.

Addressing that waning immunity requires another dose. Now, to be fully vaccinated, were talking three doses of the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine, or three doses of the Moderna vaccine, or two doses of the J&J vaccine.

That was also predicted: Weve spoken about this before.

When we rolled the vaccines out in December and January, we did it with a three- to four-week interval between doses  three weeks for Pfizer BioNTech, four weeks for Moderna. We did that because we were in a hurry to fully vaccinate the American people  especially that first round, to protect nursing home residents, who were being picked off by the virus, and our health care providers. That was a good decision and saved a lot of lives.

But if you were designing a vaccine schedule to give long-lasting, durable protection, you would never think about a three- to four-week interval between doses. The interval would be longer.

So that pretty much guaranteed it was going to be a three-dose vaccine, with a third dose given six months to a year later. Theres a lot of precedent for that.

If you look at the pediatric vaccines our kids get  like diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, influenza type B or the inactivated polio vaccine  we give three or four immunizations in quick succession. Thats our primary immunization. Then we wait. Six months to a year later, we give the boost. Thats what gives you the durable protection.

The mRNA vaccine is going by the same playbook  as predicted. Its effectiveness appears to wane. Theres new data from Israel showing that with the Pfizer vaccine, the decline in protection went from over 90 percent down to 40 or 50 percent, primarily with breakthrough infections being mild or asymptomatic. It looks like boosting restored that protection.

Thats preliminary data. One of the problems is we dont have access to much data regarding waning immunity  very little is published  and we dont know how reliable the data is in the places its popping up.

For example, some of it is coming from the website of the Ministry of Health of Israel. You assume thats quality data, but its hard to really know. Or the data is coming from preprint servers, or its coming from a PowerPoint slide from a Pfizer shareholders meeting, or its coming from a press release.

Thats the reason why the FDA is so important. Its VRBPAC  the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee  will require access to the data, and then well be able to see it.

The other thing thats going on in the scientific community is, theres an old guard thats saying, Well, we really shouldnt give a booster until we know that there are breakthrough hospitalizations or deaths in significant numbers. Thats the time we give the boost.

But with the lag in our data reporting system, if we wait for that, thats going to create an enormous amount of instability.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Good news: Houston's COVID transmission rates are down. Bad news: Maybe not for long.

The other piece of that argument is, were getting vaccinated not just because we want to stay out of the hospital or not lose our lives. We also want to interrupt transmission in the community. Thats an important reason.

Weve also learned a lot about long COVID in breakthrough cases  that it affects even vaccinated individuals. A terrible report from the UK, Oxfords brain research group, showed gray matter brain degeneration in brain scans.

What their National Health System did is quite extraordinary. They collected 40,000 MRI brain scans, and they were able to bring back a lot of those people for new scans after they got COVID. So its a perfectly controlled study to look at before and after.

It shows gray-matter brain degeneration. To this very expert group, which works on Alzheimers, it looks like the cognitive decline that you would expect in a much older individual.

So who wants to get that? I think thats why we need the third boost. As adults, we dont only get vaccinated to prevent hospitalization or death. I mean, why did I get my Shingrix  my shingles vaccine? I wasnt gonna die of shingles. I got it because I didnt want to get shingles.

I think that the FDA committee, VRBPAC, meets on the 17th, to consider all those booster issues. Theyll consider the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine. Moderna is also applying and presumably J&J.

If the U.S. can ramp up our vaccination coverage and have the population fully vaccinated, I think well be in a much better position.

What about other countries?

We have to deal with the global equity issue. The U.S. needs to do a better job  to make a commitment that for every third dose that we give our citizens, we at least purchase and donate one dose to other countries. Thats the right thing to do.

Weve got to take greater leadership in vaccinating the world. There are 6 billion people in low- and middle-income countries.

Our lab has been pushing very hard. Our Texas Childrens and Baylor College of Medicine vaccine hopefully will be released for emergency use relatively soon in India. Our partners, Biological-E, are scaling up to make 100 million doses a month. Thats exciting.

Did you say 100 million a month?

Yeah, thats their capacity. Because our vaccine is based on an older technology, you dont have the kind of production limits that you have with a brand-new technology, whether its mRNA or adenovirus.

As any engineer will tell you, with any new process, you can make a little bit of it in the beginning, and then theres a learning curve as you figure out how to produce billions of the thing.

Thats the problem with being so reliant on the mRNA and adenovirus vector vaccines: It takes time to learn how to make billions of doses. They will figure it out eventually, but not now.

Whereas with ours, we already have that knowledge, and we can move pretty quickly. Our group, which is co-led by Maria Elena Bottazzi, my science partner for the last 20 years, has now licensed this to Biofarma in Indonesia. Theyre going to make a halal version as well for Muslim-majority countries. Were really thrilled.

But were disappointed that were not getting more help from the U.S. government. As I often like to say, Texas is doing more to vaccinate the world than the whole U.S. government right now.

Because so much of your vaccines backing has come from private entities in this state?

A lot of the philanthropy, right? From the Kleberg Foundation, and Titos Vodka, the Dunn Foundation, MD Anderson Foundation. Weve had some support from outside of Texas, like the JPB Foundation in New York and others.

But Texas has been a game changer. People need to know that.

Texas often has a bad reputation back in the northeast. But people should know that its a Texas institution thats vaccinating the world.

Lets go back to the U.S. Why is the FDA considering Pfizer first? Is it just that Pfizer is ready to be considered for the third dose?

Yeah, they put the package together sooner. A lot of it is, I think, because the Israelis collected the data. Pfizer is the major vaccine used in Israel. Israeli academics and the Israeli government have been really out in front collecting the data.

Part of the reason we dont have that data for the J&J or Moderna is because those vaccines are not used in Israel or in the U.K. Unfortunately, the U.S. winds up being dependent on Israel and the U.K. to provide our vaccine effectiveness data.

Our CDC has come up small, unfortunately, in terms of collecting vaccine effectiveness data.

Is the CDC doing anything to improve its data collection?

Yeah, they are. Things are better than they were. But theyve got to modernize.

Eric Lander whos from the Broad Institute at Harvard and MIT is now the White House Science Adviser. Hes come out and said that he wants to create a Mission Control for pandemic preparedness, presumably in Washington with the National Security Council or some arrangement within the White House.

I think its great to create a Mission Control for pandemic preparedness, but dont put it in Washington. Last year we saw how easily things can get manipulated.

On HoustonChronicle.com: They survived COVID, but unseen brain damage is leaving them foggy and forgetful

Also, essentially youd be building a shadow CDC, which is not right. What weve got to do is fix the CDC and modernize it. By creating a parallel infrastructure, youre basically telling the American people, Heres another reason why you should lose confidence in the CDC.

Weve got to fix the CDC. Let that Mission Control Center run out of Atlanta. And if theres a problem, then lets really understand what needs to be done.

Maybe the CDC has to be an organization that doesnt have to be everything to everybody. Lets focus on a few good things.

Change management is probably the hardest thing a CEO has to do, right? Now think of doing change management in a federal agency thats been around for decades. I wouldnt want to be the one having to do that.

That may be the reason why they said, its too complicated, too hard. Lets just build a new entity. Thats easier in the short term. But in the end, I think itll just create more chaos.

How are you feeling about the mu variant?

Im asked a lot about. Look, lets get through delta right now. When you actually look at them, mu is still a very minor variant. It popped up for a while in Florida and then went down again.

I think delta is going to be so dominant for the next few weeks or months. Thats where we need to focus. Delta already has a lot of nightmare qualities  transmissibility, and I think well see worsening illness as well.

Is it possible to be over-vaccinated? Does the risk of side effects grow with each dose?

Another thing the VRBPAC has to review is the serious rare side effects with all of the vaccines. For the two mRNA vaccines, there was that very rare myocarditis side effect, especially in younger people who got two doses. It was like 300 cases out of 20 million, so one in 70,000.

When it was higher with the second dose, does it go up exponentially with the third dose? I dont think so. I doubt it. But we want to confirm that.

The same with the J&J vaccine: Does a second dose increase the risk of that rare cerebral thrombotic event? Again, I dont think so. But this is why we need to have all that data in front of us.

Is disinformation picking up, dropping down, or about the same now?

Its pervasive. Just yesterday a member of the U.S. Congress  not from Texas, thank goodness  said vaccine mandates are not American. Thats patently false: Weve been doing vaccine mandates since the 1800s, especially in schools.

But those disinformation wheels keep turning, and theyre doing so much damage. I mean, look at the numbers.

By April, 550,000 Americans had lost their lives to COVID. I thought that was going to be it because we were gonna vaccinate our way out of it. But because of defiance, 80 million Americans who are eligible to get vaccinated are not taking their vaccines. And of those, now 100,000 more have died.

On HoustonChronicle.com: COVID patient dies at Memorial Hermann during family's legal push for ivermectin treatment

Thats 100,000 Americans who did not have to die, who died because of disinformation  death by anti-science. This is one of the things that Im working so hard to fight. Its why I spend so much time writing and speaking about anti-science and how destructive it is.

Anti-science has killed more Americans than global terrorism, nuclear proliferation and cyber attacks combined. Yet we dont build an infrastructure to fight it.

What else is on your mind these days?

The big piece that Im thinking about is our labs vaccine, trying to do something by the end of 2021 so we can stop all the loss of life globally. Thats a big priority.

Actually getting it into peoples arms by the end of the year?

Yeah, thats the aspirational goal. We think we can do that.

The other thing on my mind is, how do we convince more people in the U.S. to get vaccinated? Weve just got to do a better job at that if we hope to end our epidemic. The only way I see ending it is to vaccinate our way through it.

Its a high bar, but its doable. Somehow we have to bring the country together for that purpose.

This epidemic is accelerating still. It may be going down now a little bit in Florida and elsewhere in the South, but its picking up, spreading north, going into South Carolina, going into West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

I think it may stop in New England and the mid-Atlantic states because the vaccination rates there are high. Its not the Mason-Dixon Line anymore. Its the Vaccination Line. Thats the new name.

Then theres that second node. After the Sturgis motorcycle rally, it started in western South Dakota. Its been in Wyoming and now is going into Idaho and Utah.

I think thats going to be another big problem this fall. You may see confluence of it all. Except for the Northeast, and maybe Michigan, Minnesota and some of the West Coast states, I think were going to see a lot more COVID. Thats one problem.

The other problem is, I worry about the exhaustion of hospital staffs. Calling it burnout trivializes it. I think a lot of hospital staff, nurses, staff, doctors are demoralized because theyre seeing so many the sick and dying patients who didnt have to be there, people who were defiant about the vaccines. Then the medical workers go out into stores, doing their shopping, and theyll see that nobody has a mask on. Thats very discouraging.

A lot of health care providers are leaving the profession now. I think thats going to continue to pick up steam, and its going to make things harder. So I see this fall as a turbulent time.

Then of course, youve got the unvaccinated. In the face of more employer vaccine mandates, theyre continuing to remain defiant. Are they going to become unemployed? Is this going to create a cadre of 30 million very angry Americans?

I see some instability there. And I worry about political violence in this country. Theres a lot to be concerned about.

This interview has been edited for clarity, length and flow.

lisa.gray@chron.com, twitter.com/LisaGray_HouTX
The east Houston neighborhood where Billy Lee Jr. grew up feels to him like its been forgotten. Tall weeds sprout from the ditches. Highways and railroads cut up the community. The nearest major grocery store and hospital arent so near.

Down from his parents home along Fidelity Street, industrial plants emit pollution along the Houston Ship Channel. Up the street, guck sucked up from the channel bottom as part of routine maintenance is dumped behind an unkempt levee that rises above nearby homes.

Lee says he became president of his local civic club so that his communitys voices would be heard and to improve the area for his 7-year-old son. Residents call their neighborhood Fidelity. But more air pollution is coming.

The Port of Houston and Army Corps of Engineers are about to begin a billion-dollar, multiyear expansion of the Houston Ship Channel, widening and deepening it. Environmental advocates say the dredge machines and other equipment could release as much air pollution as an industrial refinery.

The port is not requiring whichever companies it ends up hiring for the project to use only the cleanest possible machines. Executive Director Roger Guenther said the port encourages it, though. And while he said he would look at other ways to reduce emissions, no additional steps were confirmed yet.

The scenario highlights what the environmental justice movement for decades has shown: Communities of color are often forced to bear the brunt of environmental harm and neglect. On the other side of Loop 610 from Fidelity, in neighboring Pleasantville, the city of Houston swimming pool is green. Mattresses, tires and discarded furniture litter a nearby roadway.

Residents such as Lee have spoken out, but it seemed no one heard.

We need to be able to get more help, Lee said. My neighborhood is my neighborhood.

Suggested changes

The port is the local agency working on the dredging project with the Corps, which is named Project 11. Leaders have touted the effort as an overall environmental win, allowing bigger ships to carry additional cargo more safely and efficiently on the heavily trafficked, complex waterway that extends some 52 miles from Houston to Galveston Bay.

It does take energy to dredge channels, right? Guenther said. But I think the sooner that its done the better because of the benefit of deepening and widening the channel that is very busy. It improves air quality in the long run.

About 58 ships a day pass through the channel, which has also been the scene of occasional environmental incidents. Public and private facilities along the waterway provide $802 billion in yearly national economic value, according to the port.

The ports senior director of strategic programs, Charlie Jenkins, said he and the staff work hard to be a good neighbor. They mow the levees quarterly. They pick up trash monthly, at least on their side of the street.

With the upcoming project, only so much equipment is available and its in high demand, Jenkins said, so staff must balance a desire to get started quickly with a possibility that the best equipment might not be available.

A short-term burden may still exist.

The work requires diesel-burning dredges, which will release two types of pollutants that especially concern advocates. One is nitrogen oxides, which can combine with other compounds in the air to form ozone. That ozone in turn can cause health problems for people with asthma.

The second is small particulate matter, which can harm hearts and lungs.

Federal rules limit how much ozone and particulate matter is considered relatively safe for public health, but advocates in this case say those rules arent protecting the affected communities well enough.

The Houston region long has violated federal standards for ozone, so the state has a plan for getting into compliance. The state environmental agency found the dredge emissions wouldnt knock it off track from meeting those goals.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality regulators instead offered some project suggestions, including that the Corps favor contractors that limit air emissions and use newer equipment.

The first contract is expected to be awarded in October for work to start by the end of the year.

Threatened health

Still, theres no getting around the fact that emissions will increase with this work, said Kenneth Adler, a senior contributing scientist at the Environmental Defense Fund.

And local residents already dealing with other hazards will pay a price: Theyre paying for the project with their health, said Ellu Nasser, a public health consultant and Adlers colleague.

The Houston Advanced Research Center and a Texas A&M expert crunched the numbers. The team found that a worst-case scenario year of dredge work could increase regional health expenses by $115 million, compared with 2016 data.

Ozone levels could affect parts of the region outside Harris County but actually decrease in the county depending on the time of year. Particulate matter was expected to bring the highest Harris County health costs.

This report shows basically a real, serious concern about public health if the dirtiest equipment is used, said Stephanie Thomas, a Houston-based organizer for Public Citizen, which commissioned the report along with the Healthy Port Communities Coalition.

The added pollution is one more issue for people in Pleasantville to fight. They include people like Bridgette Murray, who runs a local nonprofit called Achieving Community Tasks Successfully.

Murray is a retired nurse. She grew up in Pleasantville, a historically Black community. And when she began to see changes in her own health, she started to wonder about the effects of pollutants where she lived.

On a recent morning, she pointed out a small box fastened to a pole by the green pool, measuring fine particulate matter. ACTS helped get that monitor set up, along with others in the neighborhood.

They could see trends in what pollution they breathed.

Murray is pushing for better policies with the dredging. Shes a member of the ports community advisory group. She hopes the port and Corps will keep the community informed and follow through with mitigating the pollution.

Not just look at it, she said, but pursue it.

emily.foxhall@chron.com

twitter.com/emfoxhall
A federal employee is accusing the Department of Health and Human Services of a pattern of wrongdoing, abuses and mismanagement at federal emergency facilities that processed and cared for migrant kids.

The whistleblower, whose identity has remained anonymous, volunteered as a career civil servant to temporarily work at emergency shelters and was dispatched to sites between April and May 2021 after an influx of migrant children began arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border.

On Wednesday, the employees official account of mismanagement was sent to members of Congress, government lawyers and the Office of Inspector General through the Government Accountability Project, a group that provides legal services to whistleblowers.

In the whistleblower disclosure, the federal employee said when they worked at the Fort Bliss emergency intake site, which housed thousands of migrant children and teens, the vast majority of mental health staffers had no mental health training, credentials or experience, including the team leader.

The whistleblower also obtained emails outlining dozens of problems from May 1-6 at Fort Bliss that were not immediately solved. Complaints included incidents like staff threatening to deport children, leaving lights on in tents for 24 hours a day, not providing children with underwear, only offering scalding water to children and rejecting requests for mental and physical health care.

Through the Government Accountability Project, four other whistleblowers have previously come forward with official complaints about poor conditions at Fort Bliss, where thousands of children have been held in tents.

This new evidence is shocking. It further reveals violations of fundamental human rights, Government Accountability Project senior counsel David Seide said in a written statement. It is no defense to assert that the reports of these conditions are now old and have been fixed. Problems in implementation and execution are not new, were to be expected, were prohibited by existing laws and regulations and should have never happened in the first place.

The federal employees account of systematic failure was not limited to the Fort Bliss assignment.

At an initial training, the whistleblower said orientation for incoming staff was done hastily and failed to provide comprehensive guidance regarding child sexual abuse. Role assignment was also chaotic and new staff communicated using personal cell phones and messaging apps, according to the whistleblowers disclosure.

The federal staffer said they worked briefly at an emergency shelter in Houston, a large warehouse run by the National Association of Christian Churches, which housed between 400 and 500 migrant girls.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Feds abruptly move migrant children from emergency shelter in Houston

The whistleblower account mentions little privacy for kids and that cots were spaced out a foot apart. The whistleblower was also asked to shred boxes of documents on site, without explanation. Another federal employee died while working there and the whistleblower replaced that persons vacant position managing migrants backpacks and other belongings. The whistleblower was told not to open backpacks because they may have illegal drugs or toxic substances inside, according to the official complaint.

Two weeks after opening, the Houston site was suddenly shut down.

The whistleblower was also moved to a facility in Erie, Pa., which was also quickly shut down. Our client was told that there were dozens of health and safety violations and that the facility did not meet state and local child and adult health and safety requirements, the complaint said.

In Erie, the federal employee also said children faced dehydration and gastrointestinal problems and that there was a gas leak on the premises. Childrens housing didnt meet social distancing standards, the whistleblower disclosure also states.

Any potential incident previously reported would have led to an investigation and disciplinary action. Currently, children at the Emergency Intake Site at Fort Bliss meet with a case manager weekly and we have close to 60 mental health and behavioral counselors on site working with the children, said a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spokesperson, in a written response to the complaint.

The spokesperson added that children are temporarily housed at Fort Bliss for an average of 18 days.

Some 14,000 unaccompanied migrant toddlers, children and teens are currently in the departments custody. Unaccompanied minors are migrants under age 18, usually from Central America, who arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border without their parent or legal guardian. The government takes these migrants in their custody and reunites them with their family members, often within 35 days.

In Texas, migrant kids are currently held at large-scale emergency shelters in Fort Bliss and Pecos as well as dozens of smaller, formerly state-licensed shelters. Migrant shelters are no longer subject to state health and safety oversight in the wake of an effort by Gov. Greg Abbott to close shelters. State-licensed shelters were widely viewed by attorneys and advocates as a safer alternative to the federal governments large emergency facilities, like Fort Bliss.

Fort Bliss is also one of the government sites where arriving Afghan evacuees are being processed.

elizabeth.trovall@chron.com
Lina Hidalgo upset the status quo in unseating a popular longtime Republican incumbent for Harris County judge in 2018 and she vowed to keep shaking things up in her first term, most notably by vowing not to take campaign donations from county vendors.

Im looking at transparency at everything we do, Hidalgo was quoted saying in a 2019 Chronicle story, adding that she didnt want her administration to have even the appearance of a conflict of interest.

It was fair for many to applaud her higher standards for ethics and transparency then. And its only fair to judge her by those standards now.

Hidalgo, a Democrat, has rightly drawn scrutiny in recent weeks over an $11 million vaccine outreach contract that was awarded to a tiny firm whose political work and ties to Democratic candidates certainly gave the appearance of a conflict, especially after it was revealed that the firm, Elevate Strategies, bid higher and scored lower in a county assessment than the University of Texas Health Science Center.

Hidalgo initially responded to questions from Republican Commissioner Jack Cagle about her involvement in the contract by saying bring it on in a testy exchange at a Commissioners Court meeting.

But late Wednesday, Hidalgos office announced that she would cancel the contract, saying it had been politicized and was distracting from vital efforts to get people vaccinated.

Shes right. And ending the contract was the right call. But it wasnt Hidalgos critics who first injected politics into the issue. It was her offices influence in selecting a vendor with questionable qualifications and political ties.

Heres what we know: Hidalgo in March proposed hiring an outside firm to plan an outreach campaign targeting areas with low vaccination rates  a noble effort considering that through last week, only half of county residents were fully vaccinated. Elevate was one of the firms reached out to before the county purchasing office published a request for proposals. The two leading proposals, according to aides from the county judges office, were from Elevate and UT Health.

On its face, Elevate is a peculiar choice for a public health vendor. The firms only principal, Felicity Pereyra, also happened to have worked as a data analyst on the 2015 Houston mayoral campaign of Democrat Adrian Garcia, the current Precinct 2 commissioner. Pereyra also assisted Hillary Clintons 2016 presidential campaign and other liberal causes.

Certainly, Hidalgos efforts to expand access to county contracts to women- and minority-owned firms are desperately needed. This editorial board just last year called for diversifying the countys vendors after a study found glaring disparity: firms owned by white men secured $90 of every $100 doled out by the county.

But increasing equity doesnt mean lowering standards or bending rules unfairly to benefit minority firms.

We cant be sure thats what happened here but exceptions were made. The county in January changed a requirement for public health contracts that vendors have five years experience in the field to a three-year preference  which benefited firms such as Elevate.

At Hidalgos request, the county purchaser created a five-member reviewing committee consisting of two members of the county health department and three from the county judges office, including her chief of staff, Alex Triantaphyllis. While County Purchaser DeWight Dopslauf has created these ad hoc committees before to help evaluate certain contracts, he told the Chronicles Zach Despart that including staff from political offices is uncommon. The committee initially scored each proposal for its experience, management capacity and plans to canvas neighborhoods. UT Healths bid of $7.5 million placed first with an average score of 48; Elevate Strategies came in second at 40.8 with a bid of $19.3 million.

The competition was a preliminary evaluation, according to Dopslauf, and county judge aides maintain that the presentation stage of the process is where UT Health fell short. The committee selected Elevate, settling on an $11 million fee for services. Aides for the county judge maintain that UT Health did not fit the specific contracts criteria of campaign-style persuasion, and that they performed poorly on a previous county contract related to COVID-19 research. A UT Health spokeswoman declined to comment on the previous Harris County contract without more information.

Whether Hidalgo actually intended to put her thumb on the scale to reward Elevate is secondary to the perception that she exerted enough influence to steer it that way. Cagles contention that the county chose a partisan communications firm to build relationships with Democratic voters ahead of the 2022 election reads as conspiratorial  most Democratic turnout organizations already have an abundance of voter data  but hes right about the flawed contracting process.

Clear standards should be set for any makeshift committee evaluating potential vendors to reduce the opportunties for political influence. Another level of oversight, perhaps an auditor within the county purchasers office, would improve accountability. Codifying rules on low bids and best bids would add some needed uniformity in the contract process. The rules for bidding out taxpayer dollars should be the same whether the project is a road or a vaccine outreach campaign.

Hidalgo has thus far mostly avoided even the whiff of impropriety or scandal during her first term and her exact role in the Elevate contract remains unknown. In Texas, where pay-to-play politics have been commonplace for decades and we hardly bat an eye at the fact that the states top law enforcement officer is still awaiting trial on felony fraud charges, Hidalgo was a refreshing departure from the norm.

Unfortunately, in the contract in question, Hidalgo didnt live up to her own high standards. We urge the countys top executive to seize the opportunity to seek changes in the bidding process to make it fairer and to reassure residents that when she vowed to govern as a different kind of politician, she meant it. No exceptions.

Correction: An editorial published Thursday,  Canceling contract isn't enough. Lina Hidalgo should fix faulty process, should have said that Elevate Strategies founder Felicity Pereyra, who won a controversial $11 million county contract, was a data analyst for a past mayoral campaign of Democrat Adrian Garcia, not the campaign manager. We regret the error.
The teachers I lead are weary. Texas lawmakers were recently in Austin for the third round of debate on how schools should train and how students should learn about race, systemic racism and American slavery.

The last 18 months have brought seemingly insurmountable challenges to our teachers, students and families. There are many areas where we need support from elected officials at all levels of government: internet access for every public school student; stable guidance on how to operate schools during a global pandemic safely; access to vaccines and testing on school campuses, to name a few.

What we do not find helpful in the midst of this school year is the time and energy spent on the outright politicization of our social studies curriculum by many in the Texas Legislature.

Our teachers are equipped, empowered and knowledgeable on how to present factual, vetted curricular resources that represent a variety of perspectives. Each teacher must be able to help students with tangible skills: assessing the point of view of an author and source; examining multiple points of view; placing arguments in context; validating the veracity of a claim to form a conclusion centered in discourse.

All of the proposals debated in Austin would stifle this vision for our classrooms. They favor one set of beliefs over the other, rather than allowing students to form their own values, opinions and ideas  which is vexingly contradictory to what these bills are supposed to accomplish.

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Consider these instructions in House Bill 3979 and Senate Bill 3 passed by the Legislature, signed into law by the governor and in effect as of this month. When addressing issues of American values, slavery, and racism, a teacher must tell her students that these topics were nothing more than deviations from, betrayals of, or failures to live up to the authentic founding principles of the United States, which include liberty and equality.

Are we asking teachers to teach students that American slavery, written into our founding documents, was simply an aberration, even though enslaved people were considered three-fifths of a human being by the founders who signed those documents. Not only is it simply dishonest, but it is also the exact opposite of a high-quality social studies curriculum.

According to the National Council for the Social Studies, a robust and rigorous social studies curriculum provides strategies and activities that engage students with significant ideas and encourages them to connect what they are learning to their prior knowledge and to current issues; to think critically and creatively about what they are learning; and to apply that learning to real-life experiences.

The curriculum development process is complex, lengthy, thoughtful and inclusive of expert teachers and writers from all over the state. Last spring, we watched our lawmakers reduce that careful process down to a late-night frenzy of amendments and speeches. The result is a cobbled-together state law that teachers and the State Board of Education must unwind and implement.

Those of us in public education should be engaged throughout that process, advocating for teacher autonomy and urging more respect for their expertise and training. We know this is what is best for students, and so we must.

And we know these bills will trigger a lengthy curriculum review process at the State Board of Education. I am calling on public school academic leaders and teachers across the state to stay engaged. I know the process may be unfamiliar, but the decisions on the horizon are crucial and require expertise and passion from many Texans.

Do not assume someone else will speak up. Take the first step and sign up for e-mail alerts from your state legislators or your State Board of Education member. Volunteer to be on teacher-led committees. Talk to a fellow educator about your concerns. We collectively have a role to play in protecting the sacred ability of our teachers to help our students grow into the productive, critical-thinking citizens that we all want them to be.

The teachers I lead are weary, I know. But we cant sit this one out.

Carter is the chief academic officer and state superintendent for KIPP Texas Public Schools.
Twenty years ago, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals took up a case over a Louisiana abortion law that might sound familiar: it empowered citizens to sue abortion providers.

Opponents called the law a back-door attempt to cut off access to the procedure, despite judicial precedent, and they sued state officials to block it. The court ultimately dismissed the claim, saying it couldnt weigh in on the privately-enforced statute.

As Texas now rolls out its unprecedented six-week abortion ban, decimating access to millions of people of reproductive age, the 2001 decision in Okpalobi v. Foster is not just a historical landmark. It directly influenced the new law.

We had missed it, said Republican state Sen. Bryan Hughes, who authored the Texas law, Senate Bill 8. About 20 years ago the Louisiana legislature employed citizen enforcement in this area on a much smaller scale. The full Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals said that works.

He added, Im embarrassed it took us 20 years to put this together.

The Texas law, which took effect last week after the Fifth Circuit and the U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene, has shocked many who were unaware that a state could essentially bypass decades of court rulings protecting abortion access. But while the statute is pioneering in its scope, allowing nearly anyone to sue providers and others who defy the ban, its legal framework has existed for decades, essentially hiding in plain sight.

NO EXCEPTIONS: Anti-abortion laws used to exempt cases of rape and incest. Not anymore in Texas

The new law emerged just as the judicial and political winds were aligning for the antiabortion movement, including Justice Amy Coney Barretts rise to the high court last fall, which cemented its conservative majority.

There are folks who have been waiting to pull out this Rube Goldberg-like procedural trap for a time when the Supreme Court might let them get away with it, Steve Vladeck, a law professor at the University of Texas at Austin, said of the Louisiana approach. And that wasnt 20 years ago, and it wasnt 10 years ago, and it wasnt even four years ago.

One of the chief architects of the new law was Jonathan Mitchell, a former Texas solicitor general who has pushed the private-enforcement model as a way to shield laws on abortion and other issues from judicial review.

It is practically impossible to bring a pre-enforcement challenge to statutes that establish private rights of action, because the litigants who will enforce the statute are hard to identify until they actually bring suit, Mitchell wrote in a law review article in 2018.

The next year, he helped the tiny East Texas city of Waskom enact an abortion ban much like SB 8, using private enforcement. Nearly three dozen other cities in the state followed suit, though the laws were mostly symbolic because there were no local abortion providers.

Lubbock was the first to successfully stop an abortion clinic from operating this spring when voters there passed an ordinance that Mitchell has offered to helped defend.

IN-DEPTH: Gov. Greg Abbott said Texans have at least six weeks to get an abortion. Its more like 10 days.

Mitchell did not respond to an interview request, but Hughes, who represents Waskom and said he has known Mitchell for years, called his work critical to getting the Texas ban off the ground. Hughes said he became aware of the 2001 Louisiana case through Mitchells article, which cited it in a footnote.

Privatizing an abortion ban

Hughes worked closely with Mitchell to craft SB 8 and then pitch it to colleagues late last year, where it met initial skepticism. Texas Right to Life, an antiabortion lobbying group, had pushed for civil penalties in previous abortion laws, but never as the sole form of enforcement, and its political director John Seago was not optimistic that a six-week ban could survive in both legislative chambers.

At the time, Seago was struggling to get support for even less ambitious restrictions, specifically a ban on abortions done because of genetic anomalies detected in fetuses.

We had many Republicans tell us that was still too stout, he said in an interview last September, shortly after Barretts nomination was announced. And it was nothing close to a Heartbeat bill, it wasnt an 8-week ban, it wasnt a full-out abortion ban.

Seago said he got on board after four Democratic district attorneys in Texas signed on to a letter last October vowing not to enforce criminal penalties if the Supreme Court rolls back or overturns Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established womens constitutional right to abortion. If the movement couldnt rely on public officials to carry out the law, he said, it would have to find another way.

Other factors were also lining up. Texas Republicans far outperformed expectations in the November statewide elections, emboldening conservative factions who have long called for stiffer abortion laws. And six of the Fifth Circuits 17 active judges were appointed by former President Donald Trump, a Republican who had campaigned on overturning Roe. Only five members of the court were picked by Democrats.

There was an air, especially in the grassroots, of there are no excuses not to be bold when it comes to this issue, Seago said.

Some Republicans were turned off by the enforcement approach, saying it was either too weak or opened the door to more frivolous lawsuits, a trend that many in the party have been fighting for years to squash. Another antiabortion group testified against the bill, warning lawmakers it would not hold up in court and could set the movement back in Texas.

We had to go in and explain that this is actually the best way you enforce a pro-life bill, this is how these suits would come, this would actually hold the abortion industry accountable, Seago said.

The Fifth Circuits 2001 decision was a sign that SB 8 might be able to survive where other six-week bans have so far failed.

This was exactly my fear, that this would be a new strategy, said Maya Manian, a visiting professor at the American University Washington College of Law who compared the Louisiana law to a Sword of Damocles in a 2007 law review article she wrote on the ruling.

The threat of a catastrophic lawsuit alone will chill abortion providers, she wrote in the piece, titled Privatizing Bans on Abortion: Eviscerating Constitutional Rights through Tort Remedies.

The Louisiana law, passed in 1997, allows patients to sue their abortion providers for damages to themselves or their aborted fetuses for up to 10 years, even if they signed consent forms informing them of the risks. It also bars abortion providers from accessing a state fund used to help doctors pay down medical malpractice judgments.

The 2001 ruling was never appealed to the Supreme Court.

The statute was challenged again years later, after the first private lawsuits were brought against providers, and upheld in 2013 by a panel of three Republican-appointed judges at the Fifth Circuit. The law is one of many that the state Legislature has passed restricting abortion access; it specifically makes it difficult for abortion providers to get malpractice insurance, an outcome that Texas providers have feared with SB 8. Today there are just three abortion clinics in Louisiana, compared to well over a dozen in the early nineties.

Mary Ziegler, a professor at Florida State University who has studied the antiabortion movement, said the Louisiana law was part of a different era, when activists were more outwardly focused on protecting the health of pregnant people. Since then, antiabortion groups have pushed for laws that can chip away at or directly challenge Roe, rather than create legal loopholes around it.

It seemed pretty clear that there was a strategy that most abortion opponents were using, and this was not the strategy, Ziegler said. People werent paying attention to it because they didnt feel that they had to.

jeremy.blackman@chron.com
Jon Shapley, Houston Chronicle / Staff photographer

Los Angeles officials could soon mandate vaccination against the coronavirus for students in the nation's second-largest school district.

The city school board will vote Thursday afternoon on a resolution from the district's superintendent to require vaccination for "eligible students," as coronavirus vaccines have yet to be approved for children under 12. Most members of the seven-person board have said they will approve the measure or are leaning toward it, according to the Los Angeles Times.
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Hudson, NY (12534)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Showers and thundershowers this evening will give way to steady rain overnight. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
QUICK HITS: SoundExchange  ADA  TuneCore  Warner Chappell Music

SoundExchange has announced the promotion of Tim Dadson to General Counsel. He will also serve as the chief legal advisor to SoundExchange and will form part of the executive team reporting to Michael Huppe, the President and CEO.

Brieanne Jackson has been promoted to SoundExchange Deputy General Counsel from Assistant General Counsel, Licensing & Enforcement.

 ADA Worldwide, Warner Music Groups independent label and artist services arm, has reshuffled its leadership deck. Marcus Siskind has joined the company as Head of U.S., overseeing business development and label management and Adriana Sein has been appointed as Head of International, focused on the companys global business. Both are based in NY.

 TuneCore has named Nicholas Krus to the position of Vice President, Marketing. In his new role, Krus will oversee all areas of marketing including brand, acquisition, retention, analytics, and research. Most recently, he was Senior Director of Client Marketing.

Senior Director Melanie Seddon will continue to lead Brand Marketing, encompassing social media, branding, and events on a global level.

Also reporting to Krus are Erica Quinn, who has been promoted to Senior Director of Client Marketing, with additional responsibility for Acquisition Marketing, and Reva Sookraj continuing in her role as Manager of Consumer & Market Research.

 Warner Chappell Music has named Santiago Menendez-Pidal as President, Southern Europe. He will continue to be based in Madrid and report to Guy Moot, Co-Chair and CEO of Warner Chappell Music.

Menendez-Pidal will continue to run WCM Spain, but will also oversee the publishers operations in Italy. Roberto Razzini, the Managing Director of WCM Italy, stepped down from his role at the end of August.

Menendez-Pidal will also work with WCMs local consultants in Greece and collaborate with WCMs team in Paris.

Bruce Houghton is Founder and Editor of Hypebot and MusicThinkTank and serves as a Senior Advisor to Bandsintown which acquired both publications in 2019. He is the Founder and President of the Skyline Artists Agency and a professor for the Berklee College Of Music.

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Sony Music claims DNS service is implicated in copyright infringement at the domains it resolves

Sony Music is alleging that the public benefit organization Quad9, a free, recursive, anycast DNS platform, must stop resolving domain names that Sony believes were implicated in copyright infringement.

Op-Ed by Glyn Moody of Techdirt

One of the characteristics of maximalist copyright companies is their limitless sense of entitlement. No matter how much copyright is extended, be it in duration, or breadth of application, they want it extended even more. No matter how harsh the measures designed to tackle copyright infringement, they want them made yet harsher. And no matter how distantly connected to an alleged copyright infringement a company or organization or person may be, they want even those bystanders punished.

A worrying example of this concerns Quad9, a free, recursive, anycast DNS platform (Cloudflare has technical details on what recursive means in this context). It is operated by the Quad9 Foundation, a Swiss public-benefit, not-for-profit organization, whose operational budget comes from sponsorships and donations. In other words, its one of the good guys, trying to protect millions of users around the world from malware and phishing, and receiving nothing in return. But thats not how Sony Music GmbH sees it:

In June, Quad9 was served with a notice from the Hamburg Germany court (310 O 99/21) stating that Quad9 must stop resolving certain domain names that Sony Music GmbH believed were implicated in infringement on properties that Sony claims are covered by their copyrights. Quad9 has no relationship with any of the parties who were involved in distributing or linking to the content, and Quad9 acts as a standard DNS recursive resolver for users in Germany to resolve those names and others.

Sony Music is not alleging that Quad9 is infringing on copyright directly, but that its DNS service allows people to access a Web site that has links to material on a second Web site that infringes on copyrights. On this basis, the Hamburg Court has used Germanys law on indirect liability to order Quad9 to cease resolving the names of those sites. But as the Gesellschaft fur Freiheitsrechte explains, theres a crazy twist here. Under German law:

[Internet] service providers who provide access to unlawful information or transmit such information are expressly no longer liable for damages or responsible for removal, nor can an injunction be granted against them. However, the Hamburg Regional Court assumes that Quad9 cannot invoke this liability privilege because it does not itself route the copyright-infringing information from A to B, but merely provides indirect access to it. This understanding of the law leads to the contradictory result that Quad9 is deemed liable for copyright infringements precisely because it has even less to do with the copyright infringements than Internet access providers, who are equally not involved in copyright infringements but at least do transmit the data in question.

Quad9s FAQ on the case points out that if allowed to stand:

this would set a dangerous precedent for all services used in retrieving web pages. Providers of browsers, operating systems or antivirus software could be held liable as interferers on the same grounds if they do not prevent the accessibility of copyright-infringing websites.

The past history of media companies suggest that, given such a capability, they would indeed go after all of these incidental operators, as part of an insane quest to put every aspect of the Internet at the service of copyright.

Follow me @glynmoody on Twitter, Diaspora, or Mastodon.

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BudgIT Foundation, a civic-tech organization leading the advocacy for fiscal transparency and accountability in Nigeria and three other African countries, has officially announced its 10th-anniversary celebration tagged  A decade of civic-innovation and social impact scheduled to hold in September 2021.

To celebrate BudgITs achievements in the last decade, BudgIT will host a series of signature events between September 13 and September 18 2021, including our Anniversary Lecture, Hackathon and Dinner & Awards ceremony.

Founded in 2011, BudgITs work within Nigerias civic-tech space has moved beyond simplifying the budget using an array of civic-tech tools, into facilitating budget reforms at both national and subnational levels, including budget access, improved sectoral financing, budget transparency and accountability and budget implementation. We have also led and co-led some of the biggest advocacy projects and initiatives in Nigeria including the Budget Padding, OpenNass, OccupyNigeria, State of States and Open Budget campaigns. BudgIT also recorded groundbreaking achievements, leading the CSO community that was instrumental to the Nigerian Governments agreement to sign up for OGP in July 2016.

While speaking about the landmark celebration, Oluseun Onigbinde, BudgITs Lead Director and Co-founder shared some of BudgITs significant achievements in the last ten years and expectations for the next decade.

The last ten years have been nothing short of tremendous for us at BudgIT. Despite the challenges, BudgIT has recorded significant achievements while facilitating improved fiscal transparency and accountability through social advocacy, civic innovation, institutional engagements, partnerships and active citizen mobilization. We have played a major role in defining the landscape of Nigerias civic-tech space and we are currently engraving our footprints within Africas civic-tech space Oluseun added.

BudgIT has reached millions of citizens both digitally and offline on budget and public resource management related matters, thereby bringing arcane content to that of common knowledge and initiating them towards action. Likewise, we have supported the process of extractive audit transparency through strategic partnerships with organisations like Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, NEITI, on improving its audit process and the release of NNPCs monthly operational and financial reports under the current administration.

BudgITs success in facilitating budget access at the subnational level has been possible through its partnership with the World Bank, Kaduna State Government, British Council, European Union and other institutions. These partnerships have reinforced the call for transparency and accountability at the state level leading to the availability of state budgets as well as increasing access and publications to 34 budgets in the last five years. Hitherto, BudgIT has assisted Nigerian states in developing their citizens budgets, while replicating the capacity to develop strategies for effective budget advocacy at the subnational level in over 150 CSOs across the country.

Through BudgITs project tracking platform, Tracka, we have ensured effective service delivery through project monitoring in 32 states. We have facilitated budget implementation and service delivery at the grassroots through continuous engagement and citizen mobilization.

So far we have tracked over 16,738 projects worth billions of naira, ensured the completion of over 7000 constituency projects, facilitated 15,467 town hall meetings through our 37 project tracking officers across Nigeria, with support from over 1500 community champions currently present in 32 states. This makes us really proud of how far we have come Joseph Agunbiade, BudgITs Co-founder and CTO.

Beyond institution-led engagements, BudgITs achievements wouldnt be possible without the constant support from donors and partners like Gates Foundation, Luminate, MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, OSIWA, OXFAM, among others  who have consistently committed resources to BudgITs vision. We have immensely benefited from the support of great personalities like Oby Ezekwesili, Bosun Tijani, Tony Elumelu, Ory Okolloh and many others that we cannot mention. These partnerships and relationships are very critical in our next phase.

The next ten years are very critical for us at BudgIT. We hope to scale our work across Africa and the Middle East. As a civic-tech powerhouse, we also aim to leverage emerging technologie to improve budget access and participatory governance, which is a very important aspect of what we do Oluseun added.

Source: https://energyfrontierng.com/budgit-celebrates-ten-years-of-civic-innovation-and-social-impact-in-nigeria/
At CYENS, the Research Centre of Excellence in Cyprus (formerly RISE), a team is at work creating a digital twin of the city of Nicosia.

The digital twin offers the city of Nicosia a fantastic management tool, explains Dr Olga Shvarova, Chief Innovation Officer at CYENS. We are working with the Smart City initiative of Nicosia which is helping to provide the infrastructure we need.

What can the digital twin of Nicosia offer?

A digital twin is a versatile management tool which provides a digital replica of the city, for example to monitor the current situation, or to predict how the situation may evolve, as well as to test different intervention scenarios. Dr Shvarova explains.

Digital Twin YouTube video is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgZJclrlEqo

For example, city planners can use various solutions to re-model the citys electrical infrastructure to prepare for the transition to electric vehicles and to assess the impact against sustainability goals. Here, urban digital twins might be the best innovative instrument to guide city policy decisions with difficult-to-visualise calculations, which take into account not just buildings but locations, processes and peoples behaviour. The value lies in the ability of a digital twin to combine data from different sources to mirror the entire city, which increases and empowers human collaboration on city governance.

A digital twin gives the user the ability to game scenarios that help to make optimal decisions. It allows different departments in the urban administration to work together, to combine data from different sources into a more comprehensive whole.

When they decide how high a new building should be, where the shadows would fall, make decisions about traffic flow, measure the air pollution in different areas of the city, etc., the digital twin is invaluable, Shvarova adds.

What the digital twin does is to recreate in a 3D model all the processes that traverse the city and are generated by it: It takes into account a great many factors, for example, traffic lights, crowd formation and the movement of crowds through the city, peoples habitual behaviours, recurring events happening in the city, the use of electricity within the city, traffic and street lighting we use  every process that can be modeled can be included in the digital twin.

CYENS has expertise in a number of research areas that contribute to smart city/digital twin solutions, explains Prof. Yiorgos Chrysanthou, Research Director at CYENS.

We have expertise in internet of things, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence and machine learning as well as large-scale earth observation and modelling. One example of such expertise is the virtual reconstruction of urban spaces, looking both at how to faithfully reconstruct, segment and characterise the environment as well as simulate pedestrians and other human activities, he notes.

The Internet of Things connects the sensors together and reads the data we use from sensors placed around the city. The data that is collected from the sensors can deliver practical solution that will make Nicosia a better place to live.

For example, there an app can be connected up to the digital twin. A user of such an app would be able to see where parking is available throughout the city, Shvarova points out.

Traffic provides another good example. If we have the ability to connect into traffic lights, we would be able to improve and optimise the flow of traffic, by letting the cars through faster, depending on the density of traffic in different areas. This would not only speed up the commute, it will reduce the air pollution and have a positive environmental impact. she says.

Even rubbish dumping can be controlled using visual sensing. For example, we can use machine learning to optimise the how and when rubbish is collected.

However, much of the success of the digital twin initiative depends on the deployment of sensors within the Smart City infrastructure and the municipality of Nicosia has been strongly supporting this initiative.

CYENS researchers working with digital twin concept, see a digital twin as a replica of the complexity of processes, functions and interactions within a city. An implementation of a digital twin will lead to an efficient city life which means substantial savings in human effort and other resources needed to organize and run the city. It will bring together citizens and authorities to promote greater transparency and understanding of the challenges, from day-to-day issues to what may be encountered in the future. Implementing a digital twin will ultimately lead to an improved quality of life for all.

There are already plans in Paphos and Limassol to develop Smart City infrastructure, and if the smart cities of Cyprus create digital twins as well, it would allow form an interoperable urban digital platform, a shared data ecosystem to support the development of climate-neutral and smart communities.

The architecture of the digital twin should be platform-agnostic to allow all the data models to be shared. This makes the development of useful smart city applications shared between major cities of Cyprus possible. Such data can be accessed by a developer interested in building a smart city application via shared digital platforms, concludes Stelios Voscos, Software Developer at CYENS.

Source: https://cyprus-mail.com/2021/09/08/cyprus-researcher-cyens-creates-a-digital-twin-of-nicosia/
As its punning name suggests, HYCU (pronounced Haiku and an acronym of Hybrid Cloud Uptime) is a startup aiming to apply concise elegance to the world of data backup and recovery for the multi-cloud world. The Boston-based firm, founded in 2018, recently gained attention when Bain Capital led an $87.5 Series A funding round in a move that also brought former Symantec CEO Enrique Salem onto its board. I spoke to Salem and HYCU CEO Simon Taylor by video call recently to discuss the firms progress.

The metrics of HYCU make for positive reading: over 2,000 customers across more than 70 countries, offices in the US, France, Australia and Slovenia, and an NPS approval score of 91. Like many enterprise IT peers, HYCU is on a mission to demystify and learn valuable lessons from the consumer world.

Its a drive to simplicity and consumerising it so anyone can save their data with iPhone simplicity, says Taylor, adding that he never understood why everybody knows how to back up this thing [raising a smartphone] but the average business data backup consoles has typically required droves of people to manage it and has looked like the cockpit of a fighter jet.
A civil rights attorney who fought to desegregate Southern schools in the 1960s and was pushed out of his University of Mississippi teaching job amid uproar over his work on behalf of Black clients has died
Taliban militants arrested more than 14 media workers, including reporters and crew members, for their coverage of the anti-Pakistan and Womens protests held in Kabul on September 7 and 8. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Afghanistan affiliate, the Afghan Independent Journalists Association (AIJA), condemn the Talibans arbitrary attack and detention of journalists and media workers.

On September 7, the Taliban prevented media personnel from covering an anti-Pakistan demonstration in Kabul, seizing camera equipment and detaining several journalists and photographers. Protesters were rallying against Pakistans alleged interference with Afghanistans internal affairs, particularly the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), following the Pakistan militarys aid in suppressing the Afghan resistance force.

Tolo News photographer, Waheed Ahmadi, and Ariana News correspondent, Sami Jahesh, were among those arrested over coverage of the anti-Pakistan protest. The BBCs team was also prevented from filming the demonstration.

Following his apprehension, Ahmadi was handcuffed and had his camera seized by Taliban militants before being detained at the Taliban military headquarters in Kabul. Another journalist arrested during the demonstration stated that Taliban militants ordered Ahmadi to rub his nose on the ground and apologize.

On September 8, journalistsTaqi Daryabi and Nematullah Naqdi from Etilaatroz daily were arrested by Taliban actors while reporting on the womens protest in the Kart-e-Char region of Western Kabul. While detained, Daryabi and Naqdi were subject to repeated attacks on their person using sticks and cable wire.

Following the arrest of Darbi and Naqdi, Etilaatrozs editor Kadhim Karimi and fellow journalists Lutfali Sultani and Aber Shaygan visited a local police station to lobby for the release of the detained reporters. In response, they were also arrested. After hours of detention, all five journalists were reportedly released.

In another incident of detention, a local producer of EuroNews was detained, attacked and released after three hours in the Talibans custody on September 8.

Afghan women took to the streets of Kabul and north east Afghanistan to protest the lack of inclusion of women in the interim Taliban government. During the protest, Afghan women and girls also raised their voice against the Talibans violations of womens rights. The Taliban deemed the protest illegal, using force to disperse the protestors, with some sustaining injury and detainment.

According to Hujatullah Mujadidi, vice president of the AIJA, a total of 14 arrested journalists were released on September 7. Mujadidi serves as a focal point for local media groups to report on attacks against the media and journalists.

The AIJA said: The AIJA condemn the violent treatment of journalists during the recent demonstrations and call on the Taliban officials to allow journalists to freely cover the news.

The IFJ said: The continuing arrests, threats and violence towards journalists and media workers in the field fundamentally contravenes the Talibans renewed promises of a free, independent and private media. The IFJ strongly condemns these attacks to press freedom and calls for all journalists to be able to work independently without fear of retribution.

The IFJ has established a special Afghanistan Solidarity Fund within the IFJ Safety Fund to channel further support and urge those who can donate. All funds raised will go directly to providing support to Afghan colleagues.
When it comes to growing a business, it's the smallest efforts that can make the biggest impact.

That's according to serial entrepreneur Lindsay Muscato, 36, founder of Teleties, which sells durable hair ties that double as stackable bracelets. From a small startup run out of her garage, she grew her brand using social media to eventually sell millions of products to customers nationwide. Most recently, the Maitland, Florida-based company placed at No. 397 on the 2021 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies, with 3-year revenue growth of 1,216 percent.

When she was just 16, Muscato knew that entrepreneurship was her calling. She started her first business, a flip-flop with interchangeable straps called Switchflops, from a design she created in a high school art class. The shoe brand grew to sell in more than 4,000 stores, and her operation landed her the Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2010. She later changed the name of the shoe company after herself under her maiden name, Lindsay-Phillips, and sold it in 2013 to Trimfoot Co., which has a portfolio of footwear brands.

She got married, had two children-- and then the idea for her second venture was born. As someone who loves sports and working out, Muscato was sick of hair ties that would slip or stretch out, requiring her to constantly stop what she was doing to flip her head upside down to re-tie her ponytail. Her life-long frustration reached a breaking point after she became a mom and had the same problems while balancing bottles and babies in hand. Knowing there had to be a better way, she started working on a prototype in 2016 for a durable tie that stayed in place yet looked like a bracelet when wrapped around her wrist. Along with prototyping, she also brainstormed about what kind of branding would help her idea gain popularity.

In 2017, she landed on a prototype that met her high expectations and created a makeshift office space in her garage to start selling her product, calling it Teleties. She paired it with branding that was fun, conversational and feminine. She named the product's color options with playful names like "Eat Glitter for Breakfast" and "Talk to the Sand." She sent a few hundred bands to family and friends, and she recalls being shocked at how quickly word spread on social media, especially among Instagram influencers who were friends-of-friends.

She had never seen that kind of fast growth as a founder 10 years prior-- social media hadn't quite arrived yet-- so she decided to lean into social media marketing. "We've been very lucky because nothing we do is paid. It's all word of mouth," she says.

While exciting, that fast growth also led to supply challenges. Orders of hundreds quickly became orders of thousands, and Muscato was running out of product. Working late nights and weekends, she and her CFO crunched the numbers on what they needed but still ran into communication barriers with overseas manufacturers.

So Muscato got on a plane and flew to China to work it out.

"Sometimes you have to take the bull by the horns and just make it happen," she says. "Emails, phone calls, and WeChat are great, but sometimes you've got to get on a plane, go see it for yourself and make it happen." Within six months of her flight, Muscato had made the connections to solve her manufacturing problems and was able to meet demand. To date, Muscato says Teleties has sold 6.4 million packs and 19 million singles of its hair bands, and has done product collaborations with popular brands like Lilly Pulitzer and Pure Barre.

When reflecting on what she believes made Teleties grow the most, Muscato says her best investment has been hiring a team with a persistent and confident work ethic. She looks for employees who are go-getters, self-sufficient and don't need to be micro-managed. She says the office has an inside joke that on your first day as an employee you're usually on a plane somewhere-- and you have to just figure it out. "The worst thing someone can say is no, or I can't help you," she says. "We're gonna figure out a way to make it happen."

But having independent employees doesn't mean ignoring workplace culture. For her team of 37, there's a weekly workout in the office gym, and team lunches. After going remote at the start of the pandemic, Teleties is now a hybrid workplace, working remotely on Mondays and Fridays.

Above all, Muscato says any entrepreneur can go far if they follow the golden rule: to treat people the way that you would want to be treated.

"What comes around goes around. That's just the truth," she says. "Whether it's a business decision, or you're dealing with someone in the office, it's like, well, how would they feel if I was coming to them with that question? What would I want as the answer?" When you remind yourself of this simple lesson, she says, the success will follow.

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Michael Constantine, who played the role of Kostas Gus Portokalos  the Windex-obsessed Greek father of Toula  in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, has died aged 94.

Constantines brother-in-law Michael Gordon confirmed the news of his death.

The late actor died peacefully of natural causes at his home in Reading, Pennsylvania on 31 August, surrounded by his family and friends. He had been ill for some time.

Constantine earned praise for his performance in the American comedy-drama series Room 222, where he won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1970. He was also recognised by the Emmy Awards, as well as the Golden Globes, the following year.

The actor received his second Golden Globe nomination for his portrayal as night court magistrate Matthew J Sirota in the 1976 sitcom Sirotas Court.

Constantine graduated from Reading High School in 1946 and had a very close connection to his roots all his life.

Last week he could still sing all four stanzas of the Reading High School alma mater from memory, Gordon told The Daily Mail.

Hes always considered himself a Reading native. People would come up and say, Youre from California, (and hed say) Oh no, Im from Reading.

Many fans have paid tribute to the late actor on social media.

One person wrote: Rest in peace Michael Constantine my favourite movie dad.

Michael Constantine died. He was the patriarch from one of my favourite movies, My Big Fat Greek Wedding. To quote his infamous line, Why you want to leave me? another fan wrote.

LOVED Room 222 and Michael Constantine, bless him! It was a phenomenal and innovative show we just accepted and perhaps didnt appreciate enough at the time. Sincere condolences to all his family, friends and associates, wrote another fan.
China has pledged emergency aid worth 200 million yuan (22m) to Afghanistan, including three million doses of Covid-19 vaccines and food supplies.

This was the first official aid announced for Afghanistan by Chinas foreign minister Wang Yi at a meeting on Wednesday with his counterparts from Afghanistans neighbours, including Pakistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

Afghanistan is standing at the crossroads, the Chinese foreign minister said, adding that it faces humanitarian crises including the Covid-19 pandemic, reported Al Jazeera.

The aid will include the vaccine doses, grain, winter supplies and medicines, Mr Wang said, urging the Taliban to restore order in the country.

After security and other conditions are met, China is willing to help Afghanistan build projects that help to improve peoples livelihood, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin was quoted as saying by the newspaper Hong Kong Free Press.

Chinas assistance to the south Asian country comes shortly after Beijing showed its willingness to maintain communication with the new interim government formed by the Taliban.

It welcomed the Talibans decision to form an establishment and said it was a necessary step to restore order in the country.

Stressing on its support for the militant group, the spokesperson added: China attaches great importance to the announcement by the Taliban of the establishment of an interim government and some important personnel arrangements.

China and Russia have both been supportive of Taliban rule over Afghanistan.

The Islamist group has called China its most important partner and recognises the country as a key ally to get economic aid that will help rebuild the country, after the western-backed government collapsed last month.

The announcement of the interim government ended more than three weeks of anarchy in Afghanistan, Mr Wenbin said.

China has been critical of the USs involvement in Afghanistan and has attacked president Joe Biden for a messy withdrawal that was wrecking havoc in the country.

What the US did in Afghanistan over the past two decades is a textbook example which shows us the consequences of wanton military intervention and attempts to impose ones own ideology and values on others, Mr Wenbin said.

The US, meanwhile, has only issued a guarded statement on the formation of the Talibans interim government, saying the insurgent group will be judged by its actions.

We understand that the Taliban has presented this as a caretaker Cabinet. However, we will judge the Taliban by its actions, not words. We have made clear our expectation that the Afghan people deserve an inclusive government, it said.
A boat carrying dozens of passengers sank in the Brahmaputra river in the northeast Indian state of Assam after it collided with another ferry on Wednesday, leading to the death of at least one person.

While Jorhat deputy commissioner Ashok Kumar Barman on Wednesday told Reuters that they suspect the number of people on board to be anywhere between 60 and 120, but the tally was revised to 87 on Thursday.

Of the total passengers, one woman who was rescued died later in hospital, 84 others have been rescued or accounted for and two others are missing. Rescue operations, which continued till late Wednesday night have resumed again on Thursday morning, Mr Barman told the Hindustan Times.

The cause behind the head-on collision was not immediately clear. One of the boats, a government passenger ferry of the Inland Water Transport department, was coming from the river island district of Majuli when it collided with the boat going in the opposite direction, reported NDTV.

The second boat was pulled ashore following the collision that occurred near Nimati Ghat, a river port located about 350 km from Guwahati, the capital of Assam.

The deceased, identified as Parimita Das, was a resident of Guwahati and was working as a lecturer at a college in Majuli, while two missing persons are Jaan Baruah and Dr Bikramjit Baruah. They lived in Lakhimpur and Jorhat respectively, reported the Hindustan Times.

According to NDTV, the state government has suspended three officials of the inland water transport department after the incident.

Indias prime minister Narendra Modi and the states chief minister have offered their condolences.

Saddened by the boat accident in Assam. All possible efforts are being made to rescue the passengers. I pray for everyones safety and well-being, said the prime minister on Twitter.

"I am pained at the tragic boat accident near Nimati Ghat, Jorhat. Directed Majuli & Jorhat admin to undertake rescue mission expeditiously," tweeted Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The chief minister, who also visited the site of the accident today, directed a high level inquiry and ordered the district administration to register a criminal case on the accident.

He also met the injured and the family of the deceased. Im deeply pained at the demise of Ms Parimita Das of Kahilipara, Guwahati, whom we lost in the boat accident, he tweeted. [Government of Assam] stands by her family in this hour of grief and promises to extend all needful support. I shall be meeting her parents soon. May her soul rest in peace.

President Ram Nath Kovind and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also extended their condolences.

Additional reporting from the wires
About 200 foreigners, including Americans, have flown out of Afghanistan on the first large-scale commercial evacuation since US and UK forces withdrew from the country.

The Qatar Airways flight from Kabul airport to Doha, full of Westerners, marked a significant breakthrough in the bumpy coordination between the US and Afghanistans new Taliban rulers.

The Taliban had promised to allow foreigners and Afghans with valid travel documents to leave, but a days-long standoff over charter planes at another airport had cast some doubt on Taliban assurances.

As the group prepared to board, a Qatari special envoy declared it a historic day.

Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes, said Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, adding that another commercial flight would take off on Friday. Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.

A senior US official said two very senior Taliban officials had helped facilitate the departure.

The flight is the first to take off from Kabul airport since American forces left the country at the end of last month, their departure accompanied by a frantic airlift of tens of thousands of foreign citizens and Afghans.

Scenes of chaos, including a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 US service members, came to define the fraught end to Americas two-decade war.

A foreign diplomat said another 200 foreigners, including Americans, would leave in the next couple of days.

It remains uncertain what the resumption of international flights will mean for the tens of thousands of Afghans desperate to flee the countrys new Taliban leaders.

Hundreds of other Afghans at risk after the Taliban takeover because of their past work with Americans gathered more than a week ago in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif, waiting for permission to board privately chartered evacuation flights.

Although the Taliban assured the world they would let passengers with valid travel documents leave the country, many of those stranded at the northern airport did not have such papers.

Following the US-led evacuation of over 100,000 people, extensive damage at Kabul airport has raised questions over how soon regular commercial flights could resume. Technical experts from Qatar and Turkey have been working to restore operations.

Al-Qahtani said the airports radar was now active and covering 70 miles after US forces left it inoperable.

Additional reporting by AP
The lack of coverage on the climate crisis in Africa exasperates Nigerian activist Oladosu Adenike. All over the world, people know what is happening in Germany  the floods  in Italy  the hailstorm  in China  the sandstorm  but Africa gets little media attention, she says.

It might take weeks or months for us to get that kind of attention. And this is disproportionately affecting us because a spotlight is going to help the world know what Africa is faced with.

The climate crisis is a reality for all of us in our country and it doesnt just end with European disasters, Ugandan activist Vanessa Nakate tells The Independent.

Over the past few months, there have been deadly wildfires in Algeria, devastating flooding in countries including Uganda and Nigeria and severe drought conditions in southern Madagascar, driving widespread famine in the island nation.

Though studies into the specific drivers of these events have not been carried out, a recent landmark report from the UNs climate authority concluded that human-induced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe.

The Independent examines the human cost and possible causes of Africas summer of extremes.

Heatwaves and wildfires

Parts of northern Africa, including Algeria, have sweltered in extreme heat in recent weeks.

An extreme heatwave called Lucifer swept across northern Africa and southern Europe in August, driving temperatures of 47C (116.6F) in some parts of Algeria.

The heat fanned the flames of devastating forest fires in northern Algeria. At least 90 people were killed by the blazes, including 33 military officers who battled to put out the fires with limited resources. Early reports suggest this years fires caused more damage to Algerias forests than all the blazes from 2008 to 2020 combined.

A car drives through a charred forest in the Kabyle region of Algeria last month (AP)

Across the world, the climate crisis is making fire weather  hot, dry and windy conditions  more likely to occur, according to a recent assessment from some of the worlds leading climate scientists.

And a recent landmark assessment from the UNs Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that it is virtually certain that heatwaves have become more frequent and more intense since the 1950s, with humans being the main driver of these increases.

While science shows that heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense across Africa, such events still go unreported in some parts of the continent, says Dr Luke Harrington, a senior research fellow in climate science at Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand.

The frequency of unusually intense heatwaves is rapidly increasing over sub-Saharan Africa because of climate change, he tells The Independent.

Unfortunately, we still do a bad job of identifying when heat-related extremes actually take place in different parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

Last year, Dr Harrington co-wrote a research commentary warning that heat extremes in sub-Saharan Africa are chronically under-reported.

The worlds largest emergency events database has made note of just two heatwaves in sub-Saharan Africa since the beginning of the 20th century, the commentary said. By comparison, it logged 83 heatwaves in Europe over the same time period.

The under-reporting of heatwaves in sub-Saharan Africa could be putting people in danger, says Dr Harrington, because records are needed to understand how many people are dying in extreme heat events. Without this information, he says, policymakers are less able to put measures in place to help people cope with rising heat extremes.

Heavy rain and floods

In addition to extreme heat and fire, some parts of Africa have battled unusually heavy rainfall and extreme flooding this summer.

Uganda, in eastern Africa, witnessed severe river flooding in July.

In the western parts of the country we are seeing massive flooding and destruction of peoples homes. We know that some of those people end up living in camps and are struggling to survive, Ms Nakate, who is based in Uganda, tells The Independent.

According to local reports, the July floods affected at least 30 villages in western Uganda. At least three people had to be rescued from the deluge.

Nigeria, in western Africa, was also hit by severe flooding in both July and August. The July floods displaced 4,000 people and damaged 300 homes in northeastern Nigeria, according to local media. In August, further flooding in northern Nigeria caused a bridge to collapse, killing at least 21 people.

The floods in Nigeria and Uganda highlight the need to tackle the root cause of the climate crisis  rising greenhouse gas emissions, says Ms Adenike.

Humanitarian aid is good but we must have sustainable ways of dealing with the crisis, she says.

No formal assessment of the role of the climate crisis in Africas recent floods has been carried out and understanding the impact of warming on such events can be complicated, says Dr Harrington.

Many parts of sub-Saharan Africa are also affected by complex drivers of variability in the climate, he says.

Such drivers include El Nino, a periodic weather phenomenon affecting much of the world. In Africa, El Nino conditions are associated with increased rainfall in eastern regions and decreased rainfall in southern and western regions.

El Nino is just one of many climate events affecting sub-Saharan Africa, Dr Harrington says, each of which can raise or lower the chances of seeing a drought or flood in a particular region depending on what phase they are in.

This means that any signal of climate change will be harder to detect in these regions because there is so much noise in the climate system to overcome, he adds.

However, there is evidence to suggest that, in general, human-caused climate change is having an impact on flood trends across Africa. The IPCCs recent assessment concluded that increases in flooding have occurred in many parts of Africa, including western and eastern regions, as the world has warmed.

The assessments regional breakdown for Africa adds that the frequency and intensity of heavy precipitation events are projected to increase almost everywhere in Africa with additional global warming.

Drought and famine

While parts battle severe rainfall, other regions are suffering from a lack of it.

Southern Madagascar is in the grip of its worst drought since 1981. Three consecutive years of poor rains have ravaged crops, leaving 1.14 million people at risk of food insecurity and 400,000 at risk of starvation, according to the World Food Programme.

The lack of food has forced thousands of families to sustain themselves on locusts, raw red cactus fruits and wild leaves, says the UN humanitarian agency.

UN officials have also stated that the famine is the first in the world to be driven solely by the climate crisis.

This is what the real consequences of climate change look like, and the people here have done nothing to deserve this, Issa Sanogo, the UN resident coordinator in Madagascar, said last month.

Drought hits families in Madagascar in July (World Food Programme/Tsiory Andriantsoarana)

Despite the severity of the event, there has not been a formal assessment of the role of the climate crisis in driving the drought conditions.

And, as with flooding events, understanding the role of the climate crisis in drought conditions can be fraught, says Dr Harrington.

As a rule of thumb, the impact of climate change will always be less pronounced for drought and flooding events, when compared with corresponding changes to extreme temperatures, he says.

Analyses of recent droughts in East Africa found climate change did not play much of a role, while climate change did exacerbate the likelihood of the 2015-17 Cape Town drought.

The IPCCs recent assessment notes that levels of aridity have increased in Madagascar since the start of the fossil fuel era.

It adds that any further temperature rise will lead to an increase in meteorological droughts and that if future global heating is particularly severe, the island can expect to see further increases in agricultural and ecological droughts.

Madagascar [could be] the only country in the world where climate change is leading to food insecurity, says Ms Adenike. How many people know that? The media has to do more to spotlight these issues.
President Joe Biden will travel to the West Coast to survey wildfire damage and campaign for California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom as he tries to convince voters to reject the effort to recall him from office.

The White House has said that Mr Biden will first travel to Boise, Idaho on Monday 13 September to visit the National Interagency Fire Centre and then move on to the California capital of Sacramento.

The president will then travel to Long Beach, California to take part in an event with Mr Newsom ahead of the recall election on Tuesday, 14 September.

Mr Biden will finally travel to Denver, Colorado to boost his Build Back Better agenda.

The president is planning on emphasizing the effect that the climate crisis has had on the strength and frequency of wildfires, noting that wildfire seasons have been extended to include the entire year and that the damage done has devastating economic impacts for many Americans.

Part of his pitch to massively expand infrastructure spending is to make sure that it is climate-resilient.

No major wildfires have touched down in Sacramento this year, but Californias emergency firefighting operations are operated out of the Governors Office of Emergency Services in Sacramento County.

Californias wildfire season is breaking records despite that the year is far from over. Almost 2m acres have already burned and multiple fires have forced residents to leave their homes.

The Caldor Fire still burns, prompting South Lake Tahoe residents to evacuate last week, The Sacramento Bee reported.

The Caldor Fire has destroyed more than 200,000 acres in El Dorado, Alpine and Amador counties. More than 900,000 acres have been ravaged in Butte, Tehama, Plumas, Shasta and Lassen counties because of the Dixie Fire. While firefighters are still fighting both fires, more than half of each fire has been contained.

Mr Biden recently visited Louisiana, New York, and New Jersey to see the destruction caused by Hurricane Ida.

The event with Mr Biden will be the last for Mr Newsoms Stop the Republican Recall campaign. Other major Democratic figures who have campaigned for the governor include Vice President Kamala Harris  a former California senator, Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, and Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar. Former President Barack Obama has recorded an ad in support of Mr Newsom.

While Election Day is on Tuesday, more than 6.7m Californians have already voted, according to a ballot tracker from Political Data Inc. Millions more ballots are expected to be cast.
The United States has said it fully supports the aim of holding in-person, global climate talks this November in the UK but cautioned that the event must be safe and equitable.

Earlier this week an international network of 1,500 climate groups called on the United Nations and British government to postpone the Cop26 summit in Glasgow over fears that poorer nations will be shut out. Climate Action Network cited the failure to provide vaccines for millions of people in the Global South, rising costs of travel and accommodation, and ongoing uncertainty over Covid.

Anticipation is mounting ahead of Cop26, viewed as a crucial moment for the world to come together and agree on making deep  and long overdue  emissions cuts amid an ever-worsening global climate crisis.

UK climate minister and Cop26 president, Alok Sharma, has insisted that the conference must go ahead this November.

We are working tirelessly with all our partners, including the Scottish government and the UN, to ensure an inclusive, accessible and safe summit in Glasgow with a comprehensive set of Covid mitigation measures, Mr Sharma said.

On Thursday, the US government made a robust statement in support of in-person talks  with the proviso that all nations are able to take part without additional burdens.

A State Department spokesperson told The Independent: We must make this years COP26 in Glasgow, United Kingdom a pivotal moment for the world to come together to meet the climate challenge. We fully support the aim of an in-person COP, provided it can be done safely and equitably.

Glasgows success hinges on all countries being able to participate without undue sacrifice or risk. We look forward to joining all countries in a safe, inclusive COP.

Since President Joe Biden took office, the US administration has made a U-turn in its attitude to the climate crisis. The country rejoined the Paris Agreement  after former President Trump pulled out of the deal  and Mr Biden has pledged more dramatic, domestic emissions cuts while ramping up clean energy capacity.

Mr Biden has installed former secretary of state John Kerry, who led the US delegation during Paris negotiations, as his presidential climate envoy. Mr Kerry has spent much of the past year encouraging other nations to boost their climate ambitions.

The two-week summit in Glasgow was originally scheduled for November 2020 but delayed to 2021 because of the Covid pandemic.

The UK government has insisted that it is rolling out vaccines for foreign delegates  including campaign groups, members of the media and government officials  and will fund quarantine hotels for those unable to pay as part of efforts to ensure Cop26 can go ahead in a matter of weeks.

But the Climate Action Network (CAN)  made up of civil society groups in more than 130 countries  warns that delegates, campaigners and journalists from developing countries, many of which are on the UKs restrictive Red list for travel, could be excluded.

CAN says that being shut out of Cop26 talks will have serious implications on matters like climate finance  the fraught topic of how to provide funding for poorer nations on the frontlines of the climate crisis to help them mitigate and adapt to extreme events.

Our concern is that those countries most deeply affected by the climate crisis and those countries suffering from the lack of support by rich nations in providing vaccines will be left out and be conspicuous by their absence at Cop26, said Tasneem Essop, CANs executive director.

Looking at the current timeline for Cop26, it is difficult to imagine there can be fair participation from the global south under safe conditions and it should therefore be postponed.
The Orleans Parish Coroners Office has confirmed at least nine heat-related deaths in the wake of Hurricane Ida after widespread power outages left thousands of residents in the dark without air-conditioning for several days.

At least 26 Louisiana residents have died in the storms aftermath, according to the states Department of Health.

On 8 September, the agency confirmed nine people died from excessive heat during an extended power outage and two others died from carbon monoxide poisoning between 30 August and 6 September.

After Idas deadly-force winds toppled transmission towers and mangled thousands of power lines across the region, mass outages across south Louisiana have continued into their 10th day since the storm made landfall on 29 August.

Entergy New Orleans, the gas and electric company that services the New Orleans area, estimated that roughly 90 per cent of its customers in New Orleans would have their power restored by 8 September, following several days of heat advisories warning residents of temperatures reaching above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Thousands of people are still without power in areas outside the city, as residents who are able to return begin to empty the contents of their flooded-out homes and repair roofs with blue tarps.

Entergy estimates more than 430,000 customers are still without power in the state, as of 8 September.

The company estimates power will not be restored in hard-hit parts of the state  including Plaquemines, Terrebonne and St Charles parishes, as well as coastal parts of Jefferson Parish  until 29 September.

The for-profit utility company is facing renewed scrutiny in Idas wake, which has exposed lingering issues that residents and regulators have criticised for years and in the aftermath of other storms  including lack of upgrades to strengthen its power grid and lines for more severe storms in the midst of the growing climate crisis, and its reluctance to move to renewable sources.

Members of the New Orleans City Council, which regulates the utility, have vowed to investigate the latest power failures.

Deaths in the storms wake include at least seven people among hundreds of nursing home residents who were evacuated to a makeshift warehouse, as well as five people who died in senior living centres in New Orleans.

On 4 September, the Louisiana Department of Health ordered the immediate closure of the seven nursing homes that sent their residents to the makeshift facility in Independence, a town roughly 70 miles north of New Orleans.

The agency revoked their licences on 7 September, and their Medicaid provider agreements were terminated.

Their deaths and reports of poor healthcare and deteriorating conditions at the makeshift shelter prompted officials to take a closer look at nursing home oversight and accountability measures as well as the role of the politically powerful industry in the state.

The nationwide death toll from Ida has exceeded 50 lives, with 17 deaths in New York, where most victims were trapped in illegally constructed basement-level apartments as floods inundated several neighbourhoods on 1 September.

At least 27 people died in New Jersey.
Hurricane Olaf is bearing down on Mexicos Los Cabos resort region at the tip of the countrys Baja Peninsula.

The US National Hurricane Center says that the area, a popular vacation destination, could experience hurricane conditions on Thursday night and urged people to quickly prepare for it.

Olaf was around 155 miles southeast of Cabo San Lucas as of Thursday morning, with maximum sustained winds of 75mph, and was traveling towards the area at 7mph.

The Hurricane Center says that Olaf is likely to strengthen as it nears the coastline.

Forecasters expect tropical storm force winds to start hitting the area by Thursday afternoon or evening, and it could bring three to six inches of rain with it.

(AP)

Some areas could be hit by as much as 10 inches of rain, with the danger of flash floods and mudslides.

The hurricane comes just days after Tropical Storm Mindy made landfall in Florida, bringing heavy rain to the southeastern states.

And it comes on the heels of last months Hurricane Ida, which knocked out power to most of New Orleans, destroying properties and businesses across Louisiana.

At least 82 people were killed from the damage the storm brought in Louisiana, Mississippi and a string of northeast states, including New York and New Jersey.

The 2021 Pacific hurricane season has so far seen six hurricanes, with two of those being major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.

On average there are eight Pacific hurricanes per year, with four of them becoming major hurricanes.

In 2015 there were a record 16 hurricanes, with 11 major hurricanes.

In the Atlantic Hurricane Larry continued on its northerly path as it moved by Bermuda on its way to Atlantic Canada by the end of the week, with tropical storm warnings were in effect for Bermuda.
Tropical Storm Mindy formed suddenly over the Gulf of Mexico and could make landfall just as quickly, weather experts have warned.

The storm was 90 miles southwest of Apalachicola, Florida, at 5pm eastern time on Tuesday and moving northeast at 21mph.

Tropical storm warnings have been issued along the coast of Florida from Mexico Beach, Florida, to Steinhatchee River.

Forecasters have been watching this particular weather system since late August, says AccuWeather.

Because Mindy, the 13th named storm of the hurricane season, formed so close to land it is not expected to bring with it damaging winds.

It was expected to make landfall along the Florida panhandle on Wednesday night and move across the state into Georgia on Thursday.

Forecasters say it will bring with it heavy showers and thunderstorms across the southeastern states into Friday.

Some areas could see between three and six inches of rain, while most places will get between one and two inches.

Flooding could impact Tallahassee and Jacksonville, Florida, as well as Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina.

The weather system is expected to track east of the areas of Louisiana that are recovering from Hurricane Ida last month.

The centre of this system was over some of the deepest warm water of the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, said AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski.

Mindy is expected to weaken as it moves over land, but could re-strengthen when it crosses back over Atlantic water later this week.

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season has seen five tropical storms strengthen into hurricanes, with three of those major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher.

On average there are 14 named systems with seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.

The peak of the hurricane season comes near its halfway point on 10 September and 2021 remains on pace to be a well-above average year.
On Thursday, Zendaya sparked outrage among her fans after she revealed that she would not be attending the Met Gala this year due to work commitments.

The exclusive event will take place on Monday 13 September for the first time in two years after it was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic.

Usually, the Met Gala, which takes place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, would fall on the first Monday of May. But this years event was postponed.

Zendaya has been a regular on the Met Gala red carpet since she has been in the public eye, having donned a Cinderella-like gown at 2019s event that attracted a huge amount of praise among her fans.

This year, however, the 25-year-old actor has revealed she is unable to attend as she will be filming Euphoria, the acclaimed teen drama in which she stars.

When asked if she would be at the event during an interview to promote her latest film, Dune, she replied: I will be on Euphoria. I know that this is the first time youre gonna hear that Im not going.

My fans are going to be very upset with me. I will unfortunately not be able to attend because I will be working on Euphoria.

The actor went on to explain that she was granted time off from filming in order to attend the Venice Film Festival to promote Dune, an experience that she described as really, really special.

Zendaya, who was being interviewed alongside her Dune co-star Timothee Chalamet, added that she wouldve loved to be able to attend.

I wish I could, especially since this fashion icon on my side is going to be hosting, she said, pointing to Chalamet, who will co-host the event alongside Billie Eilish, Naomi Osaka and Amanda Gorman.

Zendayas fans have not taken the news well, with some even teasing that the Met Gala should be cancelled due to the actors absence.

Met Gala with no Zendaya??? What the hell even is that? tweeted one person.

Zendaya isnt going ?? Cancel the Met Gala then ! another added.

One fan even took to questioning the entire purpose of the event, writing: Okay so whats the point of the Met Gala if Zendayas not attending ?? Might as well cancel the whole thing if the main event isnt even gonna show up.
PayPal is increasing fees that will affect business with the EU  British companies will be charged a 1.29 per cent fee for payments from the European Economic Area (EEA) and vice versa.

Most businesses currently pay a 0.5 per cent fee for similar charges, a figure that has remain unchanged since before the UK left the EU customs union and single market.

PayPal said it is incurring extra costs such as the rising interchange fees between the UK and EEA as European rules capping debit and credit card interchange fees at 0.3 per cent and 0.2 per cent, respectively, no longer apply to UK businesses.

Visa and Mastercard have announced that such fees will be increased fivefold from mid-October.

Most businesses can expect their current 0.5 per cent charge raised to 1.29 per cent, which is still lower than PayPals standard 1.99 per cent fee for the rest of the world.

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PayPal said the move will help simplify its cross-border fees.

In a highly competitive market, this will make it easier for these businesses to compare PayPals pricing with that of other providers and to better appreciate the value we provide, it said.

The new charges will apply to all of the UK, including customers in Guernsey, Jersey, Gilbraltar and the Isle of Man.

The tech giant announced last month that it would also accept Bitcoin and customers in the UK are now able to use PayPal to buy, hold and sell cryptocurrency, with investments starting at 1.

The Federation of Small Businesses told BBC News that any rise in payment would be unwelcome news for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Since the start of the year, around one in four small exporters have stopped exporting to the EU, citing amongst other reasons the costs involved in selling to EU-based customers, vice chairman Martin McTague said.

We need to see stronger support for small exporters from the government, including a relaunched SME [Small and Medium Enterprises] Brexit Support Fund and a reformed Tradeshow Access Programme, Mr McTague said.
There were 1.6 million workers on furlough at the end of July, according to government figures.

Economists now believe 1 million workers could be pushed into unemployment when the scheme ends this month.

The latest update comes as political pressure has been put on the government to reconsider the double whammy effect of discontinuing furlough and cutting the 20-per-week uplift in early October.

Progress is clearly slowing as we get towards the end of the scheme, Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist for Pantheon Macroeconomics told The Independent.

Many of the businesses that still have workers on furlough are smaller firms, he added, with balance sheets that will likely struggle to bring back all of those staff on a full-time basis.

For those furloughed employees who do return to their jobs, they are likely to face fewer hours and a fall in pay. There are a large number of employees who are furloughed on a part-time basis now. But I dont see the demand in the economy shooting up enough in October for firms to bring them back full time, Mr Tombs said.

And numbers from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in August showed the number of hours each employee works is lower than before the pandemic.

Travel and tourism sectors remained especially reliant on the scheme in July, with one in two employees working on passenger air transport still on furlough. Meanwhile, the airline industry has repeatedly called for further support once the furlough scheme ends, to avoid mass redundancies.

In August, Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, the industry body representing UK-registered carriers, said the sector had not had anything like the reopening it was hoping for. He added that the confusion and expense associated with the governments Covid-19 testing and quarantine for international travel policies had hit the industrys peak holiday travel season.

The figures, compiled by HMRC, also showed that London was the region with the highest level of workers still on furlough. Plus, many sectors that have started to recover, such as retail, are also unlikely to keep staff on at pre-pandemic levels, after shifting to online retail, which requires fewer workers.

While job openings are high, and some economists believe the labour market is extra active and running hot  and with businesses struggling to find workers with the right skills  firms are limited by their administrative capacity to hire new staff.

So even with vacancies running at close to a record high in August, as measured by the Recruitment and Employment Confederation and KPMG, companies will struggle to soak up new workers coming off furlough. And this means there will likely be a cliff-edge effect when the scheme ends this month with many workers becoming inactive or unemployed.

The number of people coming off furlough has slowed to a trickle said Charlie McCurdy, economist at the Resolution Foundation. As a result, up to a million employees could still be on furlough when the scheme closes at the end of this month.

While we expect most of these staff to return to their previous roles, a significant number will not, and we could see a fresh rise in unemployment this autumn, he said. Given these circumstances, now is not the right time to cut universal credit by 20 a week. The government must change course.

The number of employees on payrolls increased in August, compared to July, according to statistics from ONS. But the overall total number of employees on companies payrolls was still 200,000 below pre-pandemic levels, suggesting that while the labour market is recovering, there is still ground to make up.

A struggle to find staff has driven higher pay in some sectors, but statisticians have warned that this headline rate, of more than 8 per cent including bonuses, might look higher than it should. The measure is based on a year-on-year comparison in July. And last summer, wages were falling, in part as many workers saw their hours cut due to lockdowns, as a result, the growth rate is relative to that lower base.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak said: Its fantastic to see furlough levels at their lowest since the start of the pandemic with young people, in particular, getting back to work and kickstarting their careers as the UK gets back to business.

He added: With furlough naturally unwinding and coming to a close at the end of the month we are doubling down on our plan for jobs  focusing our support on giving people the skills and opportunities they need to succeed in the jobs of tomorrow.
The UKs medicines regulator has given approval for the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines to be used as booster jabs, paving the way for an autumn programme that could see millions of Britons administered with a third dose against Covid-19.

Following a review, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) concluded that both vaccines can be used as safe and effective booster doses  though scientific advisers are continuing to debate to whether third jabs will be needed, and for which groups.

The Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) met on Thursday to assess the latest data from a study investigating the possible benefits of booster jabs, but it is understood that Downing Street is not expecting a final decision today.

One source close to the JCVI told The Independent that its a likely a recommendation will be made next week, though other figures have suggested the advisory group could pass its advice on to the government by the end of Friday.

The new MHRA guidance says Pfizer boosters can be given to anyone, regardless of which doses they had previously. However, AstraZeneca boosters will only be given to those who previously had the AstraZeneca jab.

"This is an important regulatory change as it gives further options for the vaccination programme, which has saved thousands of lives so far, said Dr June Raine, chief executive of the MHRA.

"It will now be for the JVCI to advise on whether booster jabs will be given and if so, which vaccines should be used.

The NHS has begun preparations to deliver millions of third doses within the next two weeks, while GPs were invited to sign up for the programme last month.

Health secretary Sajid Javid has said he is confident that booster jabs will be approved, though the scope and scale of the programme is likely to be determined by the outcome of Thursdays JCVI meeting.

Members of the advisory committee were tasked with reviewing preliminary findings from Southampton Universitys ongoing Cov-Boost study, which is investigating the effectiveness of a third dose in topping up the immunity levels of double-jabbed people.

The research is looking at seven vaccines in total, but the early data set to be passed to the JCVI will only relate to the AstraZeneca, Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson jabs  all of which have been approved for use in the UK.

The final results of the Cov-Boost study are some weeks away, said Professor Saul Faust, chief investigator of the study. However, the interim data passed to the JCVI will relate to the vaccines they can logistically recommend to be deployed in any autumn campaign, he added.

Whether booster vaccinations are needed is an open question, especially as countries such as Britain and the US plan third doses when millions of people across the world remain unvaccinated and vulnerable to Covid-19.

Earlier this week, the World Health Organisation (WHO) called on rich countries with large supplies of vaccines to hold back from launching booster programmes until the end of the year.

The WHOs director-general said the UK and other wealthy countries should be giving more vaccines to the poorest nations before offering their own citizens booster jabs.

I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the worlds poor should be satisfied with leftovers, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told a news conference.

Rich countries have also offered to donate 1 billion vaccine doses to other countries, but less than 15 per cent of those doses have materialised, Dr Tedros said. We dont want any more promises. We just want the vaccines.

Global Justice Now also warned on Thursday that gobbling up vaccine supplies in the UK while low-income countries have vaccinated less than 2 per cent of their populations would be dangerous and morally abhorrent.

UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 10 September 2021 People paddle board during a misty morning in Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, Cumbria PA UK news in pictures 9 September 2021 Troops from Wiltshire based 4 Armoured Close Support Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers during final inspection at Wellington Barracks in London, ahead of providing troops for the Queens Guard PA UK news in pictures 8 September 2021 Workers cross London Bridge during the morning rush hour in London Reuters UK news in pictures Mixing it up: Painting it up press view in London A gallery employee poses for photographers next to a painting entitled Prairie by British artist, Louise Giovanelli during the exhibition 'Mixing it up: Painting it up' at the Hayward Gallery in London EPA UK news in pictures 6 September 2021 Traders in the Ring at the London Metal Exchange, in the City of London, after open-outcry trading returned for the first time since March 2020, when the Ring was temporarily closed due to the pandemic PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2021 People enjoy the warm weather on Sandbanks beach, Poole PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2021 Demonstrators from Animal Rebellion and Nature Rebellion protest in Trafalgar Square in London. PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2021 South Africa's Ntando Mahlangu (centre) wins the Men's 200 metres T61 Final ahead of second placed Great Britain's Richard Whitehead at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2021 A young common seal on the beach at Horsey Gap in Norfolk, as hundreds of pregnant grey seals come ashore ready for the start of the pupping season. PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2021 Goldfinches fighting over food in a garden in Strensham, Worcestershire PA UK news in pictures 31 August 2021 Gold Medallist Sarah Storey of Britain celebrates on the podium Reuters UK news in pictures 30 August 2021 Extinction Rebellion protesters hold a a tea party on Tower Bridge in London EPA UK news in pictures 29 August 2021 A police office tussles with a demonstrator on Cromwell Road outside the Natural History Museum during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion in London PA UK news in pictures 28 August 2021 Members of the British armed forces 16 Air Assault Brigade walk to the air terminal after disembarking a Royal Airforce Voyager aircraft at Brize Norton, Oxfordshire POOL/AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 27 August 2021 Fabio Quartararo crashes during a MotoGP practice session at the British Grand Prix, Silverstone Circuit Action Images via Reuters UK news in pictures 26 August 2021 An Extinction Rebellion activist holds a placard in a fountain surrounded by police officers, during a protest next to Buckingham Palace in London Reuters UK news in pictures 25 August 2021 Gold Medallist Great Britains cyclist, Sarah Storey, celebrates after winning the Womens C5 3000m Individual Pursuit Final at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. It was her 15th Paralympic gold Reuters UK news in pictures 24 August 2021 A demonstrator dressed as bee during a protest by members of Extinction Rebellion on Whitehall, in central London PA UK news in pictures 23 August 2021 Former interpreters for the British forces in Afghanistan demonstrate outside the Home Office in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 22 August 2021 Police officers form a line in front of the entrance to the Guildhall, London, where protesters have climbed onto a ledge above the entrance during an Extinction Rebellion stage a protest PA UK news in pictures 21 August 2021 People take part in a demonstration in solidarity with people of Afghanistan, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 20 August 2021 People zip wire across the sea from Bournemouth pier towards the beach. PA UK news in pictures 19 August 2021 Supporters of Geronimo the alpaca gather outside Shepherds Close Farm in Wooton Under Edge, Gloucestershire PA UK news in pictures 18 August 2021 Former Afghan interpreters and veterans hold a demonstration outside Downing Street, calling for support and protection for Afghan interpreters and their families PA UK news in pictures 17 August 2021 Military personnel board the RAF Airbus A400M at RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire, where evacuation flights from Afghanistan have been landing Reuters UK news in pictures 16 August 2021 Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer takes part in a minute's silence at Wolverhampton police station for the victims of the Plymouth mass shooting last week PA UK news in pictures 15 August 2021 2Storm, a ten-metre tall puppet of a mythical goddess of the sea created by Edinburgh-based visual theatre company Vision Mechanics, makes its way alongside the seafront at North Berwick, East Lothian, during a performance at the Fringe By The Sea festival PA UK news in pictures 14 August 2021 A woman and two young girls look at floral tributes in Plymouth where six people, including the offender, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident PA UK news in pictures 13 August 2021 Forensic officers in the Keyham area of Plymouth where six people, including the shooter, died of gunshot wounds in a firearms incident on Thursday evening PA UK news in pictures 12 August 2021 Children ride horses in the River Eden in Appleby, Cumbria, during the annual gathering of travellers for the Appleby Horse Fair PA UK news in pictures 11 August 2021 Stella Moris (left) reacts after talking to the media outside the High Court in London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal, n London, following the first hearing in the Julian Assange extradition appeal. The US government has won the latest round in its High Court bid to appeal against the decision not to extradite Julian Assange on espionage charges PA UK news in pictures 10 August 2021 Students react after they receive their A-Level results at the Ark Academy, in London Reuters UK news in pictures 9 August 2021 The final athletes from Great Britain arrive home including Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny and Katie Archibald (front left-right) at Heathrow Airport, London following the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games PA UK news in pictures 8 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny during the closing ceremony of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at the Olympic stadium in Japan PA UK news in pictures 7 August 2021 People from the Glasgow Southside community take part in the Govanhill Carnival, an anti-racist celebration of pride, unity and the contributions immigrants have made to the community in Govanhill, at Queen's Park, Glasgow PA UK news in pictures 6 August 2021 Chijindu Ujah of Britain, Zharnel Hughes of Britain, Richard Kilty of Britain and Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake of Britain celebrate winning silver as they pose with Asha Philip of Britain, Imani Lansiquot of Britain, Dina Asher-Smith of Britain and Daryll Neita of Britain after they won bronze in the women's 4 x 100m relay during Olympic Games Day 14 Getty UK news in pictures 5 August 2021 A protester places flowers on a photograph of an executed man during a demonstration organised by supporters of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) to protest against the inauguration of Iran's new president Ebrahim Raisi in central London AFP via Getty UK news in pictures 4 August 2021 England's Joe Root looks on as India's KL Rahul doesn't make it to a catch during day one of Cinch First Test match at Trent Bridge, Nottingham PA UK news in pictures 3 August 2021 Great Britain's Laura Kenny and Jason Kenny with their silver medals for the Women's Team Pursuit and Mens Team Sprint during the Track Cycling at the Izu Velodrome on the eleventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 2 August 2021 Great Britains Charlotte Worthington competes during the Womens BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics PA UK news in pictures 1 August 2021 EPA UK news in pictures 31 July 2021 James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics AP UK news in pictures 30 July 2021 Great Britain's Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan PA UK news in pictures 29 July 2021 Team GB's Mallory Franklin during the Womens Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal Getty UK news in pictures 28 July 2021 Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status PA UK news in pictures 27 July 2021 A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants. PA UK news in pictures 26 July 2021 A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel PA UK news in pictures 25 July 2021 Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 24 July 2021 Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main PA UK news in pictures 23 July 2021 Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery's new free programme of art-inspired activities for families PA

A large UK booster programme right now would fly in the face of the WHO's advice on how to end this pandemic, said Nick Dearden, director of the UK campaign group.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We continue to prepare for an autumn booster programme to ensure those most vulnerable to Covid-19 have protection extended ahead of winter and against new variants.

"Any booster programme, including which vaccines might be recommended for use, will be based the final advice of the independent JCVI."
Exposure to noise pollution can lead to a higher risk of developing dementia, new research suggests.

Researchers from Denmark studied the long-term exposure of road traffic and railway noise and risk of dementia among two million adults aged over 60 and living in Denmark between 2004 and 2017.

They found 103,500 new cases of dementia during the study period in which they estimated noise at the most and least exposed sides of buildings at residential addresses.

They then used national health registers to identify cases of dementia over an average of 8.5 years.

The study, which has been published in the BMJ, estimates that in the final year of the research, 1,216 out of the 8,475 cases of dementia registered in Denmark in 2017 could be attributed to noise exposures.

Those people exposed to road traffic noise of 55 decibels and over were 27 per cent more likely to develop Alzheimers  the most common cause of dementia.

The noise from railways of 50db can increase the risk by 24 per cent compared with people living in areas with less than 40db of noise.

Scientists believe the possible explanations for this impact effect of noise on health are to do with the release of stress hormones when sleep is interrupted.

This can lead to changes to coronary artery disease and changes to the immune system, which are all seen as early events in patients who have dementia and Alzheimers disease.

Corresponding author Dr Manuella Lech Cantuaria said:Epidemiological studies have consistently linked transportation noise to various diseases and health conditions, such as coronary heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

The proposed biological mechanisms are noise-induced reactions, with activation of the autonomic nervous and the endocrine (hormone) system and subsequent release of stress hormones, affecting several physiological functions.

Exposure to noise during the night can also lead to sleep disturbance and fragmented sleep.

She added: Experimental studies have found associations between transportation noise at night time and endothelial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, alterations in the immune system, and increased systemic inflammation.

Transportation noise is considered the second worst environmental risk factor for public health in Europe after air pollution.

Approximately a fifth of the European population is exposed to transportation noise above the recommended level of 55 dB.

Previous studies have linked transportation noise to various diseases and health conditions, such as coronary heart disease and obesity.

The researchers of the study added that reducing transportation noise should become a public health priority.

Professor Beate Ritz, an epidemiologist at California University in Los Angeles, who was not involved, described the study as comprehensive.

She said: The residential noise estimates accounted only for road traffic and railway noise  not noise from airports, industrial activities or occupational exposure.

Exposure to noise at work might influence vulnerability to exposures to ambient noise in later life, for example.

Noise might also affect the risk of other chronic disorders, such as high blood pressure, through which noise contributes indirectly to dementia risk.

The number of people with dementia is expected to exceed 130 million by 2050, making it a growing public health problem.
The BBCs new three-part documentary series A Killing in Tiger Bay airs for the first time on Thursday evening and tells the story of one of the most shocking miscarriages of justice in British legal history.

Directed by Marc Evans and written by Helen Walsh, the team behind ITVs The Pembrokeshire Murders, the series concerns the brutal murder of prostitute Lynette White, the wrongful conviction of five innocent men and the eventual exposure of the real killer thanks to a breakthrough in forensic technology.

White, 20, was found dead in her flat above a betting shop at 7 James Street in Butetown in Cardiffs seedy docklands area on Valentines Day 1988, having been stabbed 69 times by an unknown assailant in an assault police pathologist Bernard Knight would subsequently categorise as a mutilating attack with sexual overtones, according to Satish Sekars book about the case Fitted In (1997).

Eyewitnesses reported seeing an agitated white man near the scene with blood on his clothing on 14 February and an E-FIT of the suspects likeness was duly released and broadcast on the BBCs Crimewatch UK as part of a South Wales Police investigation that ran for 10 months but proved fruitless.

Then, in November, five black and mixed-race men were unexpectedly arrested in response to local yacht club secretary Violet Perriam telling detectives she remembered seeing a number of suspicious black men near the flat where White was killed.

The five were swiftly accused of the murder, despite the police having previously said they were looking for a lone white male.

One of the five was Stephen Pineapple Miller, Whites boyfriend and pimp, a cocaine addict said to have a mental age of 11, who was interviewed by South Wales Police 19 times over a period of four days and, after 13 hours of interrogation during which he had denied involvement in the killing on 307 occasions, finally - and falsely - he confessed.

Miller also implicated four other local men in the crime: John Actie, Ronnie Actie, Tony Paris and Yusef Dullah Abdullahi.

The first trial of the five accused at Swansea Crown Court, beginning on 5 October 1989, had to be halted after 82 days when the judge, Mr Justice McNeill, died suddenly of a heart attack.

Resuming in May 1990, the trial finally concluded the following November with cousins John and Ronnie Actie cleared by a jury after two years in custody and Miller, Paris and Abdullahi all found guilty and sentenced to life in prison.

The trio came to be known as the Cardiff Three as a major public campaign got underway calling for their case to be revisited, their cause boosted by media interest and programmes like Panorama and Channel 4s Butetown: The Bridge and the Boys casting fresh light on the story. They were duly acquitted by the Court of Appeal in December 1992.

Eight years later, South Wales Police reopened the case and discovered fresh forensic evidence at the scene, including specks of blood on the cellophane wrapper of a cigarette packet and on a skirting board, which had since been painted over. While the UKs National DNA database failed to yield a match, the hunt for a new suspect, dubbed The Cellophane Man, was on.

By January 2002, a new test known as a Second Generation Multiplex Plus allowed officers to create a reliable DNA profile from the blood retrieved from Whites flat and make a partial match with that of a 14-year-old youth who had not been born at the time of the murder.

The match pointed them in the direction of the boys uncle, Jeffrey Gafoor, who had worked as a security guard at his familys shop in nearby Roath at the time of Whites death.

A South Wales Police handout of Jeffrey Gafoor (PA)

Gafoors description matched the original E-FIT and he was duly arrested on 28 February 2003, the suspect attempting to commit suicide by taking an overdose of pills when he realised he was about to be apprehended but was prevented from doing so by police, who had him under surveillance.

Gafoor confessed to the killing on his way to hospital.

He was proscuted for the murder at Cardiff Crown Court on 4 July and pleaded guilty, prompting audible gasps from the public gallery as he did so.

Prosecutor Patrick Harrington QC described the moment Gafoor had confessed to the court: He took a deep breath and said, Just for the record, I did kill Lynette White. I have been waiting for this for 15 years. Whatever happens to me, I deserve it.

The defendant had explained that, on the last night of Lynette Whites life, he had paid her for sex up front but changed his mind when he saw the state of her flat in Butestown, which had no electricity or running water, and then demanded back his 30, attacking her in fury which she refused.

Prior to his sentencing, Mr Harrington told the court: He did not simply kill, he attacked in a barbaric manner, cutting, stabbing and slashing his victim over 50 times, cutting her throat, slashing both wrists, cutting, stabbing and slashing her face, arm and especially the torso.

It is tempting to talk of the defendant having attacked in a frenzy, but the pattern of distribution of injuries suggests a particular mindset.

Lynette White (PA)

Gafoors sister said he never smoke, drank or took drugs and spent most of his time working, reading or watching television.

Through his life he has been a loner, Mr Harrington summarised, an assessment that tallied with the opinion of his neighbours in the village of Llanharan, who described him as a recluse who would only speak to you out of necessity.

Mr Justice John Royce sentenced Gafoor to life in prison with a minimum sentence of 13 years and told him: For 15 years, you kept your guilty secret and evaded justice even while others stood trial for the murder you knew that you had committed.

Jeffrey Gafoor was recently rejected for probation for a third time when a Parole Board ruled he had not made as much progress as hoped since being transferred to open prison in 2020 as a result of Covid-19 restrictions being imposed.

After considering the circumstances of his offending, the progress made while in custody, and the other evidence presented in the dossier, the panel was not satisfied that Mr Gafoor was suitable for release, the board wrote in its report.

However, on assessing the benefits and risks of Mr Gafoor remaining in open conditions, the panel recommended that he should do so. He had made considerable efforts to address his areas of risk and had demonstrated steady progress. Mr Gafoor will be eligible for another parole review in due course.

While in prison, Gafoor has reportedly taken part in programmes to address his decision-making, better ways of thinking and tendency to use violence.
British Airways harassed a former RAF serviceman with PTSD who it disciplined for missing work as he tried to save his daughters life, an employment tribunal has found.

Steve Jones texted his manager at the airline to say he was on his way to the hospital with his daughter, having performed CPR on her.

Upon his return to work he was told he was being investigated for potential gross misconduct.

An employment tribunal ruled BA was guilty of harassing Mr Jones, criticising it for showing a lack of empathy towards him.

He will be awarded compensation after winning his claim for disability discrimination and harassement against the airline.

The court called into question BAs behaviour and bad handling of the situation, particularly as it has signed up to the Military Covenant which requires them to give special consideration to those who had given the most.

Judge Sam Moore said: The tribunal was struck by a lack of empathy for the very difficult and upsetting situation Mr Jones was in during that period of almost losing both his father and daughter.

It did not get a proper handle on the situation and it was handled badly.

The RAF veteran of 18 years began working as an aircraft mechanic at British Airways Maintenance in Cardiff in 2018.

In August that year he was formally diagnosed with PTSD, with symptoms including short-term memory loss, outbursts of anger, and confusion.

After his diagnosis, he took two months off sick from work, and upon his return received a verbal warning by BA.

The following March, Mr Jones was hit by a car and took time off work to attend a hospital appointment, but had forgotten to inform his bosses due to memory loss.

He was asked to attend a disciplinary hearing within less than 24 hours and was given another warning, leading him to become extremely distressed.

In August 2019, Mr Jones was absent from work as his father suffered a heart attack and was hospitalised.

Shortly after that, his daughter almost died from a condition that had killed his wife.

He messaged his manager - referred to as Witness A - and told them his PTSD was going into overdrive - yet on his first day back to work was given a letter asking him to attend a disciplinary hearing.

He did not attend the meeting because of this, and was asked to attend another or face being sacked.

The tribunal heard Mr Jones suffered multiple PTSD triggers whilst working under Witness A over his duration of employment.

When he was on authorised leave, the manager wrongly assumed he was absent and called him asking: why are you not working today?.

During an appraisal, Mr Jones was given a letter by team leaders which said due to his PTSD he had two differing personalities and a profound negative impact on morale.

He was also left feeling upset and humiliated when a colleague wrote PTSD next to his name on a job card.

Judge Moore said the comments made had a significant and debilitating impact on Mr Jones, and were unnecessary.

He added: We find that the comments were insensitive and shower poor awareness and lack of training on how to address shortcomings in an employees performance due to a disability.

BA accepted the warnings issued to Mr Jones were unfavourable treatment due to his PTSD, but they argued it was trying to achieve legitimate aims in managing his absence.

It said it was disappointed with the tribunals ruling believing it had acted fairly.

A spokesperson said: We are disappointed with the decision and believe that we have acted fairly and properly throughout.

We are currently considering whether we appeal the decision.
Prominent victims of police corruption have called on the government not to extend the contract of Metropolitan Police commissioner Dame Cressida Dick after reports she was to be offered an extra two years in her role.

Both the home secretary, Priti Patel, and the London mayor, Sadiq Khan, are said to support plans for Dame Cressida to lead Londons police force for two years after her current contract is set to expire next year. The extension would see the 60-year-old police chief stay in post until 2024.

The Evening Standard, which first reported the story, said the deal could still collapse if both sides failed to reach an agreement on the precise details of the extension.

A Home Office spokesperson refused to speculate on Dame Cressidas future when contacted by The Independent.

The spokesperson said: The home secretary works closely with the commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and the mayor of London to protect the public, make our streets safer and reduce crime.

The appointment of the commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Service is a formal process which will be confirmed in the proper way.

The group of seven high-profile victims, led by the mother of Stephen Lawrence, called on Boris Johnson to find a replacement from outside the Met for the commissioner, who they said should be investigated for her conduct.

Dame Cressida has been forced to respond to a number of controversies surrounding the conduct of the force in the last six months.

In March, she faced calls for her resignation over the much-criticised approach to policing of the Sarah Everard vigil in south London.

Three months later, she was again under pressure to quit after an independent panel described the Met as institutionally corrupt.

The commissioner also insisted she had not obstructed investigators examining how the Met dealt with the 1987 murder of Daniel Morgan.

Led by Baroness Nuala OLoan, the panel found that the Met had made protecting its own reputation a higher priority than finding Morgans killer.

Dame Cressida was criticised in the 1,200-page report for initially denying the panel access to the police Holmes database while it investigated the case.

Responding at the time, she said: I didnt obstruct their work. I set out with my team, who were well resourced, to ensure that we gave the panel maximum cooperation, and that we did full disclosure, as quickly as we could.

In an open letter to the prime minister published by MailOnline, the group of victims led by Baroness Lawrence said Dame Cressida had presided over a culture of incompetence and cover-up.

The seven also requested a meeting with Mr Johnson and the Home Secretary to discuss their complaints, which also concern wider reforms of the force.

Other signatories of the letter included Lady Brittan, widow of a minister falsely accused of sexual abuse, and Alastair Morgan, brother of Daniel.

Four other people affected by false abuse claims  radio presenter Paul Gambaccini, former Tory MP Harvey Proctor, Edward Heath's biographer Michael McManus, the son of Lord Bramall  also signed the letter.
Police are searching for a transgender teenage girl who is thought to have gone missing days after coming out.

Maya Keen, 16, was last seen at Liverpool Street station in London at 8.40am on 3 September, where she had travelled to from her home in Stansted, Essex.

Friends appealing for information on Mayas whereabout said she had only come out as transgender very recently and that she is very vulnerable and the disappearance was extremely out of character.

Maya was last seen on CCTV wearing a pink shoulder-length wig, pink face mask, pink top, white skirt, white tights and trainers. She was also carrying a black, Puma rucksack and a black suitcase. She is described as 5 foot 10 with pale skin, slim build and hazel or light brown eyes.

Essex Police said in a statement officers were keen to locate Maya in order to check on her welfare.

Model, author and LGBT+ activist, Munroe Bergdorf, who shares the same hometown as Maya, posted an Instagram appeal to her 500,000 followers to help find the teenager.

Bergdorf said: Maya - if you are reading this please let someone know that you are safe. I know how difficult and oppressive growing up in a small town like Stansted can be when you dont fit the status quo. But please let someone know you are ok, so that we can help you with whatever you need.

They added: Disclosing someones gender identity without their permission is not something that I would ordinarily condone or recommend. But the fact that Maya is both a minor and transgender, alone in a major city, places her at a considerable risk of danger.

Many transgender people in the UK are at particular risk of discriminatory-based violence, with reports of transphobic hates crimes quadrupling between 2015 and 2020. Trans youth are also subject to risks of family rejection, with almost a fifth of LGBT+ youth struggling with homelessness.

Anyone with any information on Mayas whereabouts is asked to call 999, quoting case number: MPC/4367/21.
Police are attempting to locate a schoolgirl from south-east London who is thought to have gone missing with an older man.

Aaliyah Chen, 15, was last seen in the Sidcup area at around 9.30pm on the evening of 5 September and was reported missing the following morning, the Metropolitan Police said.

Officers believe the teenager may be in the company of an older man and are treating efforts to find her as a high risk missing person investigation.

According to police, the pair may have travelled away from Sidcup but it is thought that they are likely still in London.

Local police service, Bexley MPS, added in a 7 September tweet that Aaliyah is believed to have links to Wales, Camber Sands and Brighton.

Anyone who sees Aaliyah should call 999 immediately, providing the reference CAD 4086/08Sep.

Anyone with other information about her whereabouts should call 101.
Police are investigating after a two-year-old girl was injured after plunging from a flat window on the top floor of a four-storey building.

The child, who has not been named, was reportedly found unconscious by paramedics before being taken to hospital, as reported by Barrhead News.

Police Scotland said on Wednesday they are investigating the incident.

The toddler is said to be in a stable condition at Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow.

No further details have been released about the childs injuries.

The family is understood to have moved into the property in November last year.

One neighbour told Barrhead News: We have been told that a young girl fell out of a top-floor window but little else.

The emergency services were on the scene quickly and the police have been back a few times since.

I dont think many people realised what was going on at the time.

A Police Scotland spokesman said: Police received report of a two-year-old girl who was injured after falling from the window of a flat on Craighead Way in Barrhead around 8.25pm on Thursday September 2, 2021.

Emergency services attended and she was taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow, where her condition is described as stable.

Inquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident.
An exhibition set up to commemmorate the Windrush generation has been vandalised at the Port of Tilbury in Essex.

The Tilbury Bridge Walkway of Memories is an art and sound installation in one of the original walkway bridges where hundreds of British subjects from the Caribbean disembarked from HMS Empire Windrush more than 73 years ago.

Images show several of the 432 panels of glass, that have had historical photographs of members of the Windrush generation printed on them, have been smashed in what is suspected to have been acts of vandalism.

The creators and organisers of the exhibition say that vandals [were] indiscriminately targeting the bridge.

The vast majority of visitors to the exhibition  83 per cent  have said that they want the installation to remain at the port, while there are some that are actively trying to tear it down, the organisers statement adds.

The exhibitions creator Everton Wright, an artist who goes by the name EVEWRIGHT, said: This work has been created through the need to preserve the stories of Caribbean elders, from the Windrush Generation, whose stories and first-hand accounts need to be shared so future generations can understand the importance of the contributions they made to Britain.

The work has received an overwhelming positive response from the public and those who contributed their stories and images.

The feedback from the public are heartfelt knowing these stories where being told. Yet there are a few who choose to damage this beautiful work.

Tilbury Port Police and Tilbury Port are taking action to prevent further damage, the exhibition organisers have said.

The organisers have vowed that they will not be silenced by people who seek to cause criminal damage.

They added that the work will remain open to the public, and that there will be tours and talks in October to mark Black History Month.

The exhibition is held in the bridge where Windrush passengers had walked (EVEWRIGHT/Tilbury Bridge Walkway of Memories/Photo: John Ferguson)

The name of the Empire Windrush ship is used to describe the generation of nearly half a million people who moved from the Caribbean to Britain between 1948 and 1970.

Before the Empire Windrushs journey to Essex, the ships Ormonde and Almanzora made trips from the Caribbean to Liverpool carrying hundreds of passengers.

The newcomers had sought fresh opportunities following Britains call for more workers to help fix the severe labour shortages after WWII.

In 2018, it was revealed that there were British people of Caribbean descent, either of the Windrush generation or their descendants, who were wrongly detained, denied legal rights, lost their homes and/or jobs, refused entry back into the UK, threatened with deportation and  in at least 83 cases  deported.

The Windrush scandal was linked to the hostile environment for migrants policy implemented by former PM Theresa May when she was Home Secretary. It led to the resignation of Ms Mays successor Amber Rudd as Home Secretary in 2018.

It also saw the launch of the Windrush Lessons Learned Review in 2020  which concluded that the Home Office had shown ignorance and thoughtlessness and that what had happened to the Windrush generation and their descendants had been foreseeable and avoidable.

Immigration regulations were tightened with complete disregard for the Windrush generation and that officials had made irrational demands for people to show multiple documents to prove their rights of residency, the review found.
Boris Johnson has said that it is absurd that a charity set up in honour of Sir Winston Churchill has appeared to be distancing itself from the wartime prime minister.

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust has renamed itself the Churchill Fellowship and removed all photographs of Churchill from its website.

It also published a statement calling his views on race widely seen as unacceptable today, a view that we share.

In a June 2020 post titled Racism is unacceptable, the charity acknowledged there was controversy about aspects of Sir Winstons life  but added that he was internationally admired for his wartime leadership in saving Britain and the world from Nazism.

The organisation was accused of attempting to rewrite history and cancel the former leader after a 1,400-word tribute describing him as a much-loved leader also reportedly disappeared from the site.

The charity has since appeared to U-turn on part of its decision after an image of Churchill was reinstated on the website.

PM Mr Johnson, who counts Churchill as one of his heroes, accused the charity of airbrushing his achievements out of history.

He said that it was absurd, misguided and wrong that the Churchill Fellowship appeared to be distancing itself from Churchill.

Mr Johnsons spokesman told journalists at a Downing Street briefing that Churchill was a hero who helped save this country and the whole of Europe from fascist and racist tyranny by leading the defeat of Nazism.

He also said: The prime minister has always been clear that whilst its legitimate to examine Britains history and we should aim to educate people about all aspects or complex past, both good and bad, and not erase them, we need to focus on addressing the present, and not attempt to rewrite the past and get sucked into the never-ending debate about which well-known historical figures are sufficiently pure or politically correct to remain in public view.

The charity has said in a statement released today (9 September) that the rebranding was not an attempt on their part to disown Churchill, but that it was carried out because the charitys name did not properly explain its purpose.

Julia Weston, chief executive of the Churchill Fellowship, said the name change had been carefully considered for two years and went ahead after consultation with hundreds of fellows.

Sir Nicholas Soames, who is Churchills grandson and served as a Conservative MP from 1983 until the 2019 general election, said that the charity had his familys full support.

The charity, whose chairman is Churchills grandson Jeremy Soames, was set up using mainly public donations after the death of the former prime minister in 1965.

The idea for the fellowship was developed in the last years of Churchills life and with his approval.

The scheme is an educational programme which offers opportunities for all UK citizens to study practical topics abroad and share what they have learned with their community or profession in the UK.
Staff in the social care sector who refuse to get the Covid vaccine should not be able work in frontline roles in care homes, a government health minister has said.

Care minister Helen Whately suggested care home staff who would not get double jabbed could be moved to back-office roles.

She told Sky News: The big question has to be well, if you dont want to get vaccinated, how can you continue, how can it be right to continue, to look after people who are really vulnerable from Covid?

The government is considering whether to make Covid jabs mandatory for frontline NHS and care workers  but some unions and care bodies have warned it could lead to staff shortages.

Asked on BBC Breakfast whether care staff who refuse the jab could be sacked, Ms Whately claimed they could be redeployed. The care home will have to work with staff members to see if there are any alternative roles they can do that dont involve actually working in the care home, she said.

The minister later suggested that all staff working in health and social care  including NHS staff  who refuse to get double jabbed could be moved to back-office roles.

You can look at whether there are alternative ways somebody could be deployed, for instance, in a role that doesnt involve frontline work ... whether its, for instance, working on 111, something like that, she told Times Radio.

The care minister added: So we could look at alternative roles for individuals, these are exactly the sorts of things that we can investigate.

Ms Whatelys comments comes as the government announced a consultation on plans to make Covid and flu vaccinations mandatory for all frontline health and care staff, including NHS workers.

The six-week consultation process will take views on whether vaccine requirements should apply for health and wider social care workers  those in contact with patients and people receiving care.

It would mean only those who are fully vaccinated, unless medically exempt, could be deployed to deliver health and care services.

The government previously said all staff in registered care homes in England must be vaccinated against Covid from 11 November, unless medically exempt.

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) said the consultation would look at the potential impact that making jabs compulsory could have on staffing and safety, such as reducing staff sickness absence.

NHS staff, healthcare providers, stakeholders, patients and their families are being urged to take part, with a final decision expected this winter.

According to the DHSC, around 92 per cent of NHS trust staff have received one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, with 88 per cent of staff having received both doses.

Health secretary Sajid Javid urged all health and social care staff to be vaccinated, regardless of the outcome of the consultation.

We will consider the responses to the consultation carefully but, whatever happens, I urge the small minority of NHS staff who have not yet been jabbed to consider getting vaccinated  for their own health as well as those around them.

The social care industry has previously expressed concern over the effect mandatory vaccination may have on the sectors already-stretched staffing levels.

The Institute of Health and Social Care Managements most recent survey found that nine out of 10 managers said their workplace was experiencing staff shortages or having difficulty recruiting.
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer should take inspiration from US president Joe Biden, the leader of the TUC has said.

The unions general secretary Frances OGrady praised Mr Biden for pushing dignity at work as a slogan during his successful 2020 presidential campaign.

The TUC chief said the fight for better pay and conditions should be absolutely central to Labours efforts to win the next general election and oust Boris Johnson.

Labours recent pledges to strengthen employment rights  through the right to flexible working and by ending the practice of fire-and-rehire  were really encouraging, Ms OGrady told the BBC.

But the union boss urged Sir Keir to make his priorities clear when he speaks to the TUC on Tuesday. Hes got another opportunity to set out in primary colours what his agenda for working people in this country is.

She added: I hope he will take some inspiration from what weve seen from President Biden  with that whole issue of dignity at work becoming absolutely central to the public policy agenda and that recognition that there has to be a major reset on workers rights.

Labour pledged to give gig economy workers the right to sick pay with a new employment rights charter announced in July. The party promised to create a new definition of worker in law to make sure everyone enjoys the same protections.

But Sir Keir is facing the threat of a strike within his own party after staff overwhelmingly voted for industrial action in response to compulsory redundancies. A reorganisation revealed last month will slash 90 jobs in response to the partys cash crisis.

Ms OGrady also called on Boris Johnson to define what levelling up is supposed to mean, criticising the agenda for being too vague. The pressure is on the government to define levelling up. People in the country want a sharp definition said the TUC leader.

Urging the government to address inequality, she added: Theres a sharp picture of a Covid class chasm between those who kept on going into work throughout the pandemic, keeping us fed, safe and looked after, and the better-off in society.

Ms OGrady  who leads the countrys largest federation of unions  said she was absolutely delighted that Sharon Graham and Christina McAnea had recently been elected to lead the Unite and Unison unions.

It follows last years report about the former leadership at the GMB union, which found that bullying, misogyny and sexual harassment were endemic.

When the GMB story came out I felt really let down and angry. Too often it was discussed around the politics of the union, she said.

Those women [who made complaints] should have been front and centre of everybodys considerations, because no woman should have to put up with that kind of behaviour.
Cabinet Office minister and Tory MP Michael Gove has recently accepted 100,000 in donations from a British-German property magnate.

Two payments of 50,000 each from millionaire property developer Zachariasz Zak Gertler have been recorded last month in the Houses of Parliaments Register of Members Interests.

In 2019, Mr Gertler had also donated 10,000 to Mr Gove during the Conservative Party leadership contest.

It was triggered by the resignation of Theresa May  in which Mr Gove stood against now-PM Boris Johnson.

In 2016, he also donated 10,000 to Mr Gove to the Tories leadership contest sparked by the post-EU referendum resignation of David Cameron that year  taking the total to at least 120,000 over five years.

Mr Gertler has been called one of Londons leading property developers by The London Magazine, and Companies House lists the 65-year-old as a resident of Israel.

His family has owned commercial properties in Britain and Germany, mainly offices and retail units in central London and Frankfurt.

The company Gertler Estates was established by his father Moritz, who was a Holocaust survivor.

Frankfurt-born Mr Gertler is a close friend of former Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and hosted his 70th birthday party at his house, according to a report by Jerusalem Post in 2019.

That same year, Mr Gove  who is a staunch critic of the pro-Palestine boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS) movement  had said in a speech at a United Jewish Israel Appeal fundraising dinner: One thing I have always been since I was a boy is a Zionist.

When the Independent approached Mr Goves office to comment on his link to Mr Gertler, a spokesperson said: The Conservative Party, and its elected representatives, are supported by membership, fundraising and donations.

All reportable donations are properly and transparently declared to the relevant authorities, published by them, and comply fully with the law.
Priti Patel is set to anger France by sanctioning plans to forcibly redirect migrant boats back across the Channel despite warnings the controversial tactic would deepen a rift in relations.

The home secretary is understood to have ordered officials to rewrite the UKs interpretation of maritime laws to allow Border Force to turn boats around, forcing them to be dealt with by the French authorities.

It comes following a G7 interior ministers meeting on Wednesday, during which Ms Patel told her French counterpart that the British public expect to see results from French efforts to prevent crossings.

Members of Border Force are being given special training to handle migrant boats, but would only deploy the pushback tactics when deemed practical and safe to do so, according to several reports.

Asked about government plans, health minister Helen Whately did not deny boats would be turned back  saying the government wanted to deter migrant crossings and was looking at all the options.

The government looks at all the options, she told Sky News on Thursday. You wouldnt want to put people in any greater danger, theyre taking a dangerous journey as it is. What we want to do is actually deter them from starting that journey in the first place.

Reports suggested such operations were likely to be restricted to bigger migrant boats and only used in very limited circumstances, with the tactic ultimately up to the captain of any British vessel involved.

Ms Patel and the French interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, held discussions on crossings in London in the wake of hundreds of migrants being brought ashore in Kent over the past few days.

Following her meeting with Mr Darmanin, Ms Patel tweeted: I made clear that delivering results and stopping crossings were an absolute priority for the British people.

But the French government warned that the newly reported turnaround tactics would have a negative impact on our co-operation.

In a letter seen by The Independent, Mr Darmanin told Ms Patel: The French position on intervention at sea remains unchanged. Safeguarding human lives at sea takes priority over considerations of nationality, status and migratory policy, out of strict respect for the international maritime law governing search and rescue at sea.

The French minister added: The use of maritime refoulement [pushbacks] to French territorial waters would risk having a negative impact on our cooperation.

The French interior minister also rejected a UK request to set up a joint command centre in northern France, with police and border force officers from both countries patrolling the coastline and the Channel.

Campaigners have previously described the pushback plans, first outlined in July, as both illegal and morally wrong. Charities urged the Home Office to take a more humane and responsible approach.

Labour said the idea of pushing boats back as risked lives, and accused Ms Patel of failing to tackle the people-trafficking gangs at Calais.

Turning boats around at sea in the worlds busiest shipping channel is dangerous and risks lives, said shadow home secretary Nick Thomas-Symonds. That the home secretary is even considering these dangerous proposals shows how badly she has lost control of this situation.

Conservative MP Tim Loughton, a member of the home affairs select committee, said the idea of turning boats back towards France was unworkable.

In practice its just not going to happen, the Tory MP told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

Mr Loughton added: Any boats coming up alongside at speed would capsize most of these boats anyway, and then were looking at people getting into trouble in the water and inevitably drowning  and then of course we will get blamed.

It comes just days after Ms Patel is said to have told MPs she is prepared to withhold millions of pounds of cash promised to France to help step up patrols unless an improvement in the number of migrants intercepted by French authorities is seen.

Earlier on Wednesday, prime minister Boris Johnson said efforts to stop the crossings depended to a large extent on the ability of the French authorities.

According to the Home Office, 785 migrants arrived in the UK on Monday after making the journey from France in small boats. This is the second highest daily total of the year, following the single-day record of 828 people set last month.

The crossings continued on Tuesday and Wednesday during the better weather conditions, with boats arriving at Dover and others being towed on to beaches along the south coast.

Migrants are escorted to shore in Kent (PA)

Earlier this year, the UK and France announced an agreement to more than double the number of police patrolling French beaches. It was the second pledge of its kind in a year, in a bid to stop small boats from leaving France.

As part of the deal, the government pledged to give France 54m to support its efforts to stop small boat crossings. Pierre-Henri Dumont, who represents Calais in the French National Assembly, told the BBC: Nothing can stop them.

He added: The fact is, weve got 300 to 400 kilometres of shore to monitor every day and every night and it's quite impossible to have police officers every 100 metres because of the length of the shore.

At least 13,000 people have now made the crossing to the UK in 2021, according to data compiled by the PA news agency.

Illegal migration is anticipated to be the subject of focus for the final day of the G7 meeting on Thursday.
France has warned the UK government against blackmail over migrant crossings and insisted attempts to turn back boats in the English Channel would be illegal under international maritime law.

Home secretary Priti Patels plan for pushbacks in the Channel has sparked an outcry from opposition parties and campaigners who said the tactics would put lives at risk.

Border Force officials have been training for several months in how some boats could be turned back to French waters, according to several reports.

French interior minister Gerald Darmanin said on Thursday he told Ms Patel during a meeting in London that the UK must stick to its legal commitments when dealing with migrant crossings.

France will not accept any practice that goes against maritime law, and will not accept any financial blackmail, Mr Darmanin tweeted. The UK must hold up its commitment.

It follows a meeting between Ms Patel and Mr Darmanin on Wednesday, during which the home secretary told her counterpart that the British public expect to see results from 54m given to France to support efforts to prevent crossings.

Plans for pushback operations are said to be restricted to bigger migrant boats and for use in limited circumstances, with use of the tactic ultimately up to the captain of any British vessel involved.

The home secretary ordered officials to rewrite the UKs interpretation of maritime laws to allow Border Force to prepare to turn boats around in the Channel, according to reports.

But France remains adamant such tactics would break maritime law. In a letter seen by The Independent, Mr Darmanin told Ms Patel Paris could not agree to any changes out of strict respect for the international maritime law governing search and rescue at sea.

On Thursday the French minister tweeted: I said it clearly in my discussions with Priti Patel. The friendship between our two countries deserves better than stances that damage the co-operation of our departments.

Pierre-Henri Dumont, the MP for Calais, said the idea of pushing back boats would break the law and was unworthy of the UK. Brexit means leaving the EU, not leaving the international community, he tweeted.

I call on the British government to come to its senses and fundamentally change its domestic law and its labour market  which encourage illegal immigration  before it tries to trample on international law.

Downing Street said the government was looking at a range of safe and legal options to deal with migrant Channel crossings.

Pushed on whether there has been a change of policy, Boris Johnsons official spokesman said: Its right that our Border Force has the right range of tactics to address this problem.

However, the spokesman denied any attempts to rewrite maritime laws  despite lawyers warning the policy will be illegal  insisting: Operational activities comply with international and domestic law.

Mr Johnsons official spokesman also rejected claims of financial blackmail from French interior minister, noting that the UK government has provided our French counterparts significant sums of money previously.

Meanwhile, Labour said the idea of pushing boats back put lives at risk, while aid charities and other organisations branded the plan cowardly, cruel and illegal.

Amnesty International UKs refugee director Steve Valdez-Symonds said: The governments pushback plan is senseless, dangerous and almost certainly unlawful.

Conservative MP Tim Loughton, a member of the home affairs select committee, said was unworkable. In practice its just not going to happen, the Tory MP told BBC Radio 4s Today programme.

The Tory backbencher added: Any boats coming up alongside at speed would capsize most of these boats anyway, and then were looking at people getting into trouble in the water and inevitably drowning  and then of course we will get blamed.

Lucy Moreton, professional office at the Immigration Services Union (ISU) representing border staff, said she would be very surprised if the pushback tactic ends up being used.

You also need the consent of the French to do it. Because as you turn the vessel back towards France, when it crosses the median line it has to be intercepted and rescued by the French, and it appears the French will simply not engage in this, she told the BBC.

Earlier this year, the UK and France announced an agreement to more than double the number of police patrolling French beaches. It was the second pledge of its kind in a year.

Illegal migration is anticipated to be the subject of focus for the final day of the G7 meeting on Thursday.
Home secretary Priti Patel plans to sanction new measures to send migrants crossing the Channel back to France.

Border Force members have been training for several months in how certain boats could be turned back to French waters, according to several reports.

The news comes amid crunch talks between London and Paris about the worsening migrant crisis, during which Ms Patel is said to have told Gerald Darmanin, the French interior minister, that the current status quo was not working for either Britain or France.

She also used the G7 meeting of interior ministers on Wednesday to tell Mr Darmanin in no uncertain terms that Britain expects to see results from French efforts to prevent migrant crossings.

The method being considered, known as pushback, was defined by Oxfam in a 2017 briefing paper as the practice by authorities of preventing people from seeking protection on their territory by forcibly returning them to another country.

It adds: By pushing back those seeking safety and dignity over a border, states abdicate responsibility for examining their individual cases.

Ms Patel first sought to make the measure legal under the Nationality and Borders Bill, laid in Parliament in July, which campaigners claimed was both illegal and morally wrong.

The Bill, which also paves the way for the Home Office to effectively punish countries that refuse to take back their own citizens, is in its third of five Commons stages before it ascends to the House of Lords.

Pushbacks have been used in the past by countries such as Australia, Malta and Greece, where it is thought Ms Patel got the idea from. In 2017, the United Nations then-global expert on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions condemned Australia for using the intentionally risky measure.

Agnes Callamards report, Unlawful Death of Refugees and Migrants, said the move not only broke international maritime law but intentionally put lives at risk. She is now the secretary general of Amnesty International.

Three years later, Malta was blasted by the UN following concerning reports that officials there had asked commercial ships to push boats with migrants in distress back into the Mediterraneans high seas. Such measures are clearly putting lives at risk, Rupert Colville, the spokesman for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a statement.

Ms Patels plans are thought to be far enough along that the Home Office has ordered British officials to rewrite maritime laws so as to make it legal for Border Force officials to turn some boats around. They would then alert the French coastguard to the presence of migrants in their territorial waters, forcing them to deal with the rescue mission.

Currently, the UN Conventions of the Law at Sea says that every state is required to render assistance to any person found at sea in danger of being lost. They must then proceed with all possible speed to the rescue of persons in distress. But the law is not clear about what should happen once a rescue has been effected.

It is thought the pushback operations orchestrated by Ms Patel will be restricted to bigger migrant boats and only used in limited circumstances, with reports suggesting it would ultimately be up to individual on-scene captains to decide whether a boat is at risk of capsizing if forced back.

The Home Office declined to comment on specifics, with a spokesperson saying in a statement: We do not routinely comment on maritime operational activity.

Meanwhile, Boris Johnson is said to have signed off on the new measures following a meeting with Tory MPs, at which he asked for their support and they gave it to him. He thinks its not acceptable and more needs to be done, a government source told The Times. Too many people are putting their lives at risk.

Using similar rhetoric, care minister Helen Whately said this morning that the government wants to deter migrants from making such a dangerous journey in the first place.

It is understood a range of options for finding ways to stop small boats making the journey across the Channel are being evaluated and tested.

Ms Patel and Mr Darmanin held discussions on crossings at Lancaster House, in London, in the wake of UK authorities having to rescue or intercept 456 people as part of 17 incidents on Tuesday, and 301 people as part of nine incidents on Wednesday, according to the Home Office.

In a tweet after the meeting, the home secretary said she had constructive talks on tackling illegal migration across the Channel with Frances interior minister. I made clear that delivering results and stopping crossings were an absolute priority for the British people, she wrote.

However, a post from Mr Darmanin appeared to shed doubt on this. France will not accept any practice contrary to the law of the sea, nor any financial blackmail. Great Britain's commitment must be kept. I made it clear to my counterpart, Priti Patel, he wrote.

The friendship between our two countries deserves better than postures which harm co-operation between our services.

Earlier this year, the UK and France announced an agreement to more than double the number of police patrolling French beaches. As part of the deal, the government pledged to give France 54m to support its efforts to stop small boat crossings.

Charities urged the Home Office to take a more humane and responsible approach towards asylum seekers and said humanitarian visas were needed to help prevent the chaos of the Channel crossings.

In the same 2017 Oxfam briefing paper mentioned earlier, the charity said pushbacks violate international and EU law because they undermine peoples right to seek asylum, deny people of the right to due process before a decision to expel them is taken, and may eventually risk sending refugees and others in need of international protection back into danger.
Ahmad Naser came to Kabul to escape the Taliban. The 30-year-old had been a guard at the American militarys Camp Lawton, in Herat, and had applied for a US Special Immigrant Visa to leave the country, given the risk of reprisals. His fears were directed at the wrong army.

In the early evening of 29 August, the day before the last American military planes left Afghanistan, a US drone lit up Khwaja Burga , a densely populated district in Kabul. The strike killed a total of 10 civilians , including Mr Naser and seven children, according to family members. They had reportedly been coming outside to greet relative Zemari Ahmadi, also killed, who worked with a US aid group distributing food to refugees .

The US initially praised the strike for eliminating an imminent Isis-K threat to the Kabul airport, adding that it didnt have indications of any apparent civilian deaths in the residential neighborhood it just hit with a missile. US Central Command (CENTCOM) eventually issued an update , saying, It is unclear what may have happened, and we are investigating further, though it maintained it had foiled an Isis plot. Relatives of the deceased insist no one present was a terrorist.

The Americans said the airstrike killed Daesh members, a neighbor told TheWashington Post, using the Arabic abbreviation for Isis. Where is Daesh here? Were these children Daesh?

After the Kabul strike, Pentagon spokesperson John F. Kirby told NPR: No military on Earth does as much as we do to try to prevent civilian casualties.

Even if that is true, Ahmad Naser will very likely be forgotten in the US, where the vast, uncounted mass of civilians slain by Americans remains far outside the popular understanding of 9/11. On that day, 2,977 people were killed, and the US has avenged these innocents many hundreds of times over. US airstrikes alone have killed as many as 48,308 civilians, according to conflict monitor Airwars.

But neither the public, nor the victims families, will likely ever get a full accounting of the deaths. The American government has steadfastly avoided true accountability on the War on Terror, from explicitly refusing to count bodies, to half-heartedly committing to transparency, to outright revelling in the killing of innocents.

Each year, America and the world mourns those lost in the atrocities of 9/11. Yet 20 years later, we still dont know how many others should be mourned along with them for the atrocities that followed.

More than 363,000 civilians have been killed in the War on Terror, according to an estimate from Brown Universitys Costs of War Project . . And many times more people have been slain after the battles are over. Cumulatively, the overall civilian death toll could very well exceed 1 million people, when taking into account indirect deaths from war that come from destroyed infrastructure and hospitals, disease, and displacement, Neta C. Crawford, a Boston University political science professor who directs the Costs of War project, told The Independent.

And thats just what we know from afar.

Because Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Pakistan, Yemen and other post-9/11 battlefields are war zones  where the US has launched more than an estimated 90,000 strikes  large-scale attempts from researchers to count the dead remain difficult.

Its going to be very hard until these places are peaceful to figure that out, Ms Crawford said.

The biggest hurdle, however, has been the US government itself. After years of agitation from families, rights groups, and journalists, the US military began publicly disclosing how many civilians it kills each year in 2018, but it regularly undercounts that figure to the point of near-irrelevance. A New York Times investigation, for example, found that during the air campaign against Isis in Iraq, 31 times more civilians were killed than officially acknowledged.

The US military tends to look into cases when someone else, be they a grief-stricken family or a crusading journalist, demands more information. Some estimates suggest two thirds of US casualty estimates come from referrals, rather than internal investigations. Inquiries that do go forward, on attacks such as drone strikes, are often threadbare at best.

 Us Air Strike Targets Is Member In Afghanistan M199223

Theyre not speaking to local witnesses, said Aisha Dennis of Reprieve, a civil rights organisation that advocates for victims of drone strikes. All of the basic investigatory tools that you would normally use to find out what happened in a crime scene or when somebody has been killed ordinarily, theyre not using those.

The Independent requested comment from CENTCOM, which oversees US forces in the Middle East, on the number of civilians killed during the War on Terror. A spokesperson recommended submitting a Freedom of Information Act request, a public records request that often takes months or years to get a satisfactory reply to, and declined to answer policy questions about how the military counts civilian deaths.

Many attacks that kill civilians are never officially acknowledged in the first place. In 2019, the Trump administration limited the number of air strikes US forces had to disclose to the public, and numerous attacks go unconfirmed, even if the effects on the ground are very real.

Its a manifestation of the project of elite impunity that has always run through this entire enterprise and a manifestation of American exceptionalism, whereby the people that America kills are not somehow as real human beings as Americans are, said Pulitzer Prize-winning national security reporter Spencer Ackerman, author of Reign of Terror, a recent history of the War on Terror. The United States has made detailed announcements every time a service member was killed in the War on Terror. They know how to count this. They choose not to do it.

This impunity has been a central feature of the War on Terror for the last 20 years, regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican was in the White House.

During the Bush administration, American officials talked openly about how unimportant they felt counting civilian deaths was. Their argument was both that body counts were  not knowable , as a CENTCOM spokesperson once put it, but also not helpful. They worried a detailed picture of the war could turn the public against it, as had happened during the Vietnam War.

Having been a rifle platoon leader in Vietnam, asking questions from Washington about how many dead today is truly counterproductive, general Peter Pace said in 2002 .

You know, we dont do body counts, general Tommy R. Franks added that same year .

As late as 2006, well into serious fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, George Bush told a group of conservative reporters, We have made a conscious effort not to be a body-count team.

(Getty Images)

That was a lie, said Chris Woods, co-founder of Airwars, a group that meticulously tracks civilian casualties.

The information was always there, Mr Woods said, it just hasnt been made public.

We found out from the WikiLeaks releases on Afghanistan and Iraq that of course the US was counting civilian casualties, not only from its own actions, but from terrorists like Al Qaeda. It just wasnt releasing its own information.

As a result, the early, crucial years of the War on Terror remain factually hazy, even as their geopolitical impact was fundamental.

There was a measure of hope that the administration of Barack Obama, a former constitutional law professor, would be different, more humane.

In 2009, the commander of US forces in Afghanistan at the time, general Stanley McChrystal, made the rules for airstrikes far stricter, drastically reducing the number of unintended casualties for the next few years.

Were going to lose this f****** war if we dont stop killing civilians, he told his staff , according to his memoir.

Mr Obama also instituted more inter-agency deliberation on issues like civilian harm before launching strikes, and late in his administration, signed an executive order mandating the US train its personnel to protect civilians, accept responsibility for attacks, and make regular public reports about strikes outside of traditional war zones, explaining the general differences between official and NGO analyses of the killings.

But President Obama was no dove. He pioneered the most controversial weapon in the US arsenal: unmanned combat drones, launching 10 times more strikes than his predecessor, publicly disclosing casualty numbers that fell far below outsider estimates or made dubious claims to killing not a single civilian .

Civilians and non-combatants were, and are, often killed in signature strikes, launched not at a known target, but rather individuals who seemed like they might be terrorists based on their personal networks, as well activities such as driving in convoys or carrying weapons, a common practice for non-militant young men in war zones in the Middle East.

Mistakes were rampant. In Yemen, for example, a cluster of five US drone strikes and a special forces raid killed 34 members of two families, including nine children, the youngest being a three-month-old baby shot by a US Navy SEAL. One of these attacks, in 2013, killed 12 men in a wedding convoy, all farmers and construction workers, leaving 73 children without breadwinners.

The Yemeni government and United Nations both condemned the strike. The US has never issued an apology.

People in the village are afraid to gather, Abdullah Mabkhout Al Ameri, some of whose family was killed during the strikes, told Reprieve. Everybody feels that they are a target. We thought these drones only kill wanted people, never innocent people. Some people now when they walk, they just keep staring at the sky.

The unmanned aircraft, often portrayed as silent, surgically precise weapons, make an audible buzz for those living underneath them. For many, its a sound on the numerous, obscure battlefields of the War on Terror that stands for accidental death far more than intentional peacekeeping.

Whatever safeguards were in place drifted off as the Obama administration confronted Isis in Iraq and Syria. The battle for Mosul, which one general called the most constant heavy combat that we have [seen] probably since before Vietnam, killed as many as eleven thousand civilians, 10 times more than the official US estimate.

Its been shockingly bad, Mr Woods, of Airwars, said. There have been periods when the US has done a better job of holding itself to account, admitting it, reducing it. Those periods are often short and often come about after really catastrophic local casualty numbers. The lessons that shouldve been institutionalised are almost immediately lost.

Donald Trump, as he so often did, said the quiet part of US politics out loud. He explicitly fantasised about going after civilians on his campaign to bomb the sh** out of Isis and stop fighting a politically correct war, as he once put it.

You have to take out their families, he told Fox News in 2015, as he prepared to run for president.

Trump said he would bomb the s*** out of Isis (Getty Images)

He kept his campaign promises, ramping up the drone war even further in places like Somalia, and unleashing so many strikes on Afghanistan that one study found civilian casualties spiked 330 percent by December 2020. Meanwhile, the year before, Mr Trump rolled back the Obama mandate about disclosing civilian deaths outside conventional war zones, turning already murky, unofficial US wars into full-on data dark zones.

More than that, Donald Trump went out of his way to protect US service members accused of deliberately targeting civilians. He pardoned Clint Lorance , an Army lieutenant serving a 19-year sentence for ordering his men to fire on Afghan civilians. Mr Trump intervened to stop the war crimes prosecution of Eddie Gallagher , a Navy SEAL turned in by his own squad mates for alleged abuses like stabbing a teen Isis captive with a hunting knife, and targeting women and children while boasting that  burqas were flying .

Both men deny wrongdoing. Mr Trump called them  great warriors  at a rally in Florida in 2019.

Whether the Biden administration will work against this pattern remains to be seen. The administration has withdrawn from Afghanistan entirely, and, as of July, had reportedly conducted an all-time low number of drone strikes . But a promised government-wide review of counter-terrorism policy is behind schedule, and the president has vowed, like three other presidents before him, to go after terror groups in Afghanistan.

To Isis-K: We are not done with you yet, Mr Biden said in a 31 August speech at the White House.

With no US military presence inside of Afghanistan, that will all but certainly mean more drone killings. That may mean more killed like Ahmad Naser and his family in Kabul.

Even if Mr Biden changes course, well never know how many civilians the US has killed in the 9/11 wars, according to Mr Ackerman, the Reign of Terror author.

It made the end of their existence an official secret, he said. It made them, in death, un-people. This isnt just about what the US tells itself. Its about what the US acknowledges it has done to hundreds of thousands of people.

Many endeavour to never forget 9/11. But for those civilians killed by America, the US government has never allowed the public to remember.

This article was amended on 10 September 2021. It originally stated that American troops and operatives have killed more than 350,00 civilians since 9/11. This was incorrect. The figure of 350,000 includes all civilian deaths, from US forces but also from attacks by organisations such as ISIS.
On 9 September, 1971, a group of inmates were locked in a tunnel in Attica State Prison in upstate New York, a punishment for a fight that took place between an inmate and a prison guard the day before.

Thinking they were about to be attacked by more prison personnel, whom they deemed the  goon squad , after the all-white corps of guards had subjected the mostly Black prison population to years of racist abuse, the group of men rebelled.

Soon, they had busted out of the corridor and taken control of the rest of the prison. What followed, 50 years ago this week, was Americas most famous prison uprising, which ended in a violent siege from hundreds of state police, who killed 29 prisoners and 10 state employees as they fired indiscriminately into the facility through clouds of tear gas.

Tensions had been simmering inside the facility in upstate New York for months . Medical care was poor, and prisoners teeth often fell out. Incarcerated people didnt have adequate access to toilet paper or soap, and worked in sweltering conditions inside prison workshops for little pay.

In July of 1971, inmates organising themselves into a group called the Attica Liberation Faction sent a letter to Russell Oswald, New Yorks commissioner of corrections, pleading for better conditions, which didnt materialise.

That August, things deteriorated further when inmates learned that Black Panther leader George Jackson had been killed in Californias San Quentin prison. Many of the more politically outspoken Black inmates at Attica felt they were singled out for extra abuse.

Then on 8 September, a fight between an incarcerated person and a guard sent rumours flying through the fortress-like, Depression-era facility, that guards had killed the inmate that night in retaliation.

Once the group of roughly 1,300 prisoners took over the prison, they took 42 officers and civilian employees as hostages , and conducted tense negotiations with outside authorities and reiterated their demands for better conditions.

Throughout the process, snipers on nearby roofs kept rifles trained on the inmates and jeered them, while federal authorities like the Army, Navy, Marines, CIA, and even the president were monitoring the situation.

Richard Nixon, captured on White House recordings of phone calls, was heard talking with open racial paranoia about the uprising, in keeping with his famous, Republican-party defining embrace of law and order politics .

Is this a Black thing? Was this started by the Black? he asked New York governor Nelson Rockefeller in one call.

Four days after the occupation began, police sent in a brutal force to crush it, with nearly 600 men storming the facility. Officers fired CS gas over the prison yard, and fired indiscriminately into the smoke, killing 29 prisoners and 10 state employees.

Some ripped their badges off, while others shot prisoners after they surrendered. Survivors, especially leaders of the uprising like Frank Big Black Smith, were tortured.

As the situation escalated, prison officials and federal law enforcement spread false information about prisoners castrating guards and slitting their throats, stories which appeared in the media but were later disproven.

Meanwhile, other officers altered statements, tampered with audiovisual evidence, and got the worst offenders during the siege, where prisoners killed a single guard, to resign before they could face discipline.

No police were ever put on trial for the killings during the siege, but 52 inmates were indicted on a cumulative 1,400 or so crimes, one of the largest criminal prosecutions in US history.

The Attica Uprising is credited not only with the birth of the modern prisoners rights movement, but with helping fuel the decades of tough on crime and prison policies that helped America come to have the largest percentage of its population incarcerated of any nation on Earth.

Authorities eventually reached financial settlements with the families of inmates and prison employees, paying them a total of $8 million and $12 million , respectively.

Survivors, as well as the families of those killed in the massacre, have continued to push for the release of confidential records regarding Attica and the trials that followed. A bill in the New York legislature would release previously sealed grand jury testimony that could include some of the Attica cases.
Plans for a controversial gold mine that would have been developed near the worlds largest sockeye salmon run have been blocked.

Joe Bidens Environmental Protection Agency stepped in to restore protections for Bristol Bay in Alaska and prevent the Pebble Mine project.

The EPA announced that it will use the Clean Water Act to protect the salmon-rich waters from being contaminated by material from a mine.

The federal agency took similar steps under the Obama administration, but the EPA had withdrawn the effort under Donald Trump.

The EPA announced its change in policy on Thursday in response to a lawsuit filed by opponents of the mine.

Pebble Limited Partnership, which is a subsidiary of Canadas Northern Dynasty Minerals, had argued that it could be the most important mining project of the 21st century.

It is believed that there are billions of dollars in gold, copper and molybdenum, an alloy used in steel production, buried underground.

But Alaskas Native community, environmentalists, fishing operators and anglers, including Donald Trump Jr and Tucker Carlson, argued that it was too risky to develop an open-pit mine at the headwaters of the fishery.

The area, which is 200 miles southwest of Anchorage, generates more than $2bn annually from the fishery.

It is essential to the livelihood and the community well-being of many Alaskan tribes. And it is also one of the most productive salmon fisheries in North America, said Radhika Fox, head of the EPAs Office of Water.

And she added that the Bristol Bay area was a unique resource that needs unique protection.

Mr Biden had campaigned in 2020 on a promise to reinstate the protections for Bristol Bay, but the EPAs move does not mean a future administration could not again reverse it.

US Senator for Alaska, Lisa Murkowski, has proposed passing legislation to prevent any development in Bristol Bay, with the federal government reimbursing the state for lost revenue.

The Obama White House estimated that the mine project could destroy 1,200 acres of streams and marshland.

Donald Trumps EPA administrator, Scott Pruitt, allowed the mining company to apply for a permit, but the one-term presidents administration eventually denied the permit.
A Colorado judge on Wednesday allowed the forced medication of a mentally ill Danish man who allegedly started a wildfire that burnt down nearly 150 homes in 2018, lawyers said.

The order allowing forced medication for accused Jesper Joergenson for six months was issued on 31 August without any notice to the defence, according to attorney Jane Fisher-Byrialsen.

Mr Joergensons forcible medication has been contested by one of his lawyers in a separate proceeding in Pueblo.

The recommendation for forced medication of the accused was made by a psychiatrist last month in order to help him stand for a trial over three years later, according to a local report. He was diagnosed with delusional disorder after the Colorado wildfire incident.

Mr Joergensons lawyers have told the court that he refused to take any medication to treat his condition because his delusions make him believe he is well and does not require any medicinal help, a local report said.

Mr Joergenson allegedly admitted to the police that he started a fire on 27 June in 2018 while burning trash when he was living in a camper, despite a ban on open fires because of the dry conditions in the region, according to a local report and court documents. However, when he woke up from a nap, he saw a fire burning in a sage brush and he burned himself trying to put it out.

The wildfire gutted 149 houses in the region and burned more than 156 square miles east of Fort Garland, which is situated 205 miles south of Denver.

According to a judge who heard the case in January this year, evidence indicated that Mr Joergenson started the fire but not intentionally to cause damage.

Colorado Attorney Generals office said the notice ordering Mr Joergensons forced medication was sent to his other lawyer David Lipika, who said that he did not receive it.

The accused man was moved to the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo in June this year, where a psychiatrist recently recommended that he be forcibly medicated.
A 61-year-old man from Nevada was arrested and removed from an American Airlines flight after he yelled at another passenger and the flight crew, video footage shows.

The passenger, who police said was intoxicated, reportedly started to yell at another passenger, who was standing, to sit down on the flight from Los Angeles on Monday.

Dennis Busch, a resident of Salt Lake City, told the Salt Lake Tribune: He was just yelling that they dont belong here, and asserting that that was not her seat, but it was  she was there the whole time.

After that, the flight attendants had that couple move back, said Mr Busch, who described the woman and her companion as being of Asian descent.

That was when he started filming the man doing all sorts of stuff, including making sounds and playing with his mask, as well as getting out of his seat and arguing with a pilot.

Then he was getting out of his seat, despite them, you know, repeatedly asking him to remain seated, said Mr Busch, who said the cabin crew did the best they could to deal with the situation.

Each time he stood up, people were on the edge of their seat, Mr Busch added.

The flight ultimately landed safely in Salt Lake City, where the passenger was arrested and removed from the flight.

Police said he was taken to a hospital in Salt Lake City, and was issued with a criminal citation for Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct.

It follows a number of incidents on flights in the US in recent months, and a warning from the Federal Aviation Authority of a rising number of unruly passengers on board flights.

In a statement, American Airlines told The Independent: American Airlines flight 1802 with service from Los Angeles (LAX) to Salt Lake City (SLC) was met by law enforcement upon arrival at SLC due to an unruly passenger. The flight landed safely at SLC where local law enforcement removed the disruptive passenger from the aircraft.

We thank our crew for their professionalism and our customers for their understanding.
A Chicago woman has been charged with falsely reporting that she had a bomb in her luggage, after arriving too late to get on her flight at Floridas Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.

Marina Verbitsky, 46, was refused entry to a flight bound for Chicago with her child and husband on Monday evening.

The woman told staff her son had school the next day, so she could not miss the flight, reported The Washington Post. JetBlue Staff at the gate told her the plane was taxiing on the runway.

She became very angry because they were not allowed to board the plane. She was using profanities towards the employees and when she was notified the plane was taxiing to the runway with her checked luggage, she stated there was a bomb in her luggage, stated an affidavit supplied by Broward Sheriffs Office.

Ms Verbitsky was immediately arrested after her bomb threat. The JetBlue plane was rerouted, all passengers were evacuated from the flight, and the BSOs Bomb Squad and Threat Management Unit detectives determined that there was no bomb in her suitcase.

Ms Verbitsky was held at the Main Jail, an eight-story maximum security facility adjacent to the Broward County Courthouse, under the charge of False report concerning planting a bomb, an explosive, or a weapon of mass destruction, or concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner.

Bail was set at $10,000, which Ms Verbitsky posted on Tuesday. A Florida judge has ordered a mental health evaluation.

This is the second time there has been a bomb threat at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in the past three months. Canadian man Wegal Rosen was charged with making a false report concerning the planting of a bomb, after allegedly disagreeing with bag fee at the Air Canada counter in July.

The threat caused three terminals to be evacuated and flights to be delayed for hours.

A fake bomb threat is a US federal crime, and a second-degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Gunmen sprayed 150 bullets into a North Carolina home, killing a three-year-old boy as he was sleeping and injuring his four-year-old sister.

Asiah Figueroa was in bed when a group of teenage suspects in two cars pulled up to his great-grandmothers house in Charlotte just before midnight on Tuesday.

Asiah was shot in the attack and died later in hospital, while his older sister was grazed but is expected to survive, police said. Asiahs death is being linked to three other shootings that escalated from a teenage dispute between high school students in Charlotte, police say.

They released two videos which show the gunmen arriving at the suburban neighbourhood and firing indiscriminately at the house.

Homicide detectives have gathered this video evidence of the shooting. They are sharing it in hopes someone in the community recognizes one of the vehicles or suspects. #clt #cltnews pic.twitter.com/8erwsQwr0K  CMPD News (@CMPD) September 8, 2021

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Captain Joel McNelly said Asiahs death should outrage everyone.

What started out as teenage dispute games has turned into a deadly game thats now taken two lives, Mr McNelly said at a news conference.

What we need is for you to be as outraged about this as we are.

Police said at least one of the suspects was believed to be a student at a Charlotte high school.

Here are some pictures the great-grandmother living at the home shared with me. She told me the childs name is Asiah Fiqueroia and he was only 3-years-old. His birthday would have been this upcoming December. Pictured next to him is his older sister. @WBTV_News https://t.co/AbjWi8jmdF pic.twitter.com/Tha7GxU9T8  Sharonne Hayes (@SharonneHayesTV) September 8, 2021

The string of shootings have some relation to students at Hopewell High School, and detectives believe there is a student from North Mecklenburg and Chambers (Vance) high schools involved, Charlotte-Mecklenburg PD say.

Asiah, his mother and sister had been staying at his great-grandmother Susie Whitleys home when the attack occurred.

Ms Whitley told WBTV that she thought the gunmen were trying to kill everyone inside, as the hundreds of bullets hit her home.

These people need to be caught and need to get them off the street because they keep shooting at peoples houses, Ms Whitley said.

Gunmen open fire on a house in Charlotte where a family was asleep, killing 3-year-old Asiah Figeuroa (Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department)

Police have linked Asiahs death to at least three other shootings in northwest Charlotte in the past few days.

On Sunday, 16-year-old Jaylen Xavier Foster was found dead in the city and two other gunshot victims were taken to hospital, WCNC reported.

A 14-year-old juvenile has been arrested and charged with a series of crimes including murder.

The night before Asiah was killed, there were several other drive-by shootings within a quarter mile of his great-grandmothers home.

And shortly before midnight on Tuesday, shots were fired at a home in the same neighbourhood.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles pleaded for the killings to stop.

These incidents that are taking place that result in the loss of a 3-year-old, it is because someones not willing to tell us how to do better, how to stop it, Ms Lyles said.
Nancy Salzman, the co-founder of Nxivm, has been sentenced to three years for her involvement in a cult-like group that branded and coerced women into sex.

The former psychiatric nurse wont serve her sentence until January, to allow her to recover from an unspecified medical procedure.

In addition, US district judge Nicholas Garaufis ordered that the group co-founder pay a $150,000 fine. Salzman will also forfeit properties, $500,000 in cash and a Steinway grand piano.

Nxivms leader, Keith Raniere, was given 120 years in prison in 2020 for crimes including sex trafficking, sexually abusing a 15-year-old, child pornography, branding sex slaves with his initials, and racketeering, among other crimes.

Founded in 1998, New York-based group Nxivm described itself as a community guided by humanitarian principles and professed to be a marketing company that offered personal development. The company was a front for a society called DOS, an acronym for a Latin word loosely translated as master over the slave woman.

On Tuesday, before sentencing, defence attorney David Stern wrote a letter to Judge Nicholas Garaufis, claiming Salzman was also a victim: [Salzman] for the past twenty years has been fooled, controlled, humiliated, and ultimately led to engage in criminal conduct by an egotistical, self-important, sex fiend.

Judge Garaufis said on Wednesday that Salzman was second-in-command and shared his power: You enabled and facilitated Mr Ranieres heinous crimes. In your 20 years at Nxivm, the door was always open but you never left, reported the New York Daily News.

Salzman said in court that she was horrified and ashamed to have enabled Raniere, whom she met when they were working together 20 years ago before forming a misguided loyalty, and rationalising what was happening around her.

I dont know that I can ever forgive myself, she said in court.

The defendant engaged in a racketeering conspiracy designed to intimidate Nxivms detractors and that inflicted harm on Nxivms members, acting US attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis said in a statement after Salzmans sentencing.

Five people have pleaded guilty to various charges associated with Nxivm. Salzman is the fourth to be sentenced in the case. Clare Bronfman was given six years in prison, and former Smallville actress Allison Mack was sentenced to three years in prison.

Lauren Salzman was given five years of probation by the court after pleading guilty to racketeering and conspiracy charges. Prosecutors praised her extraordinary assistance, which was crucial to convicting Raniere. She features in the HBO documentary The Vow about Nxivm.
The jury in real estate heir Robert Dursts murder trial have been shown the bizarre latex mask he was wearing when police arrested him in New Orleans, as the court case reaches its climax.

Prosecutors brought out the head to shoulder mask that Mr Durst had worn as a disguise to evade capture in 2015, during closing arguments in the trial in Los Angeles.

(AP)

Mr Durst is accused of killing his friend Susan Berman at her Beverly Hills home, where she was shot in the back of the head in 2000.

Prosecutors have claimed that Mr Durst killed Ms Berman because she knew too much about the 1982 disappearance of his wife, Kathleen McCormack Durst.

Mr Durst, 78, testified in his own defence for 15 days, with prosecutors telling the jury that he had lied or changed his story multiple times.

The trial is being held six years after the actor appeared on the HBO documentary series The Jinx, where he appeared to confess to multiple killings.

During filming the show, Mr Durst was caught on a live microphone muttering to himself, What the hell did I do? Killed them all, of course.

(AP)

He was arrested in Louisiana the day before the shows final episode was set to air, and had with him cash, a gun and a map of Cuba.

He has denied killing Berman but has admitted he discovered her body and failed to report it as he felt nobody would believe he had not killed her.

Deputy District Attorney Habib Balian reminded the jury that Mr Durst had testified he would lie under oath rather than admit murder.

Mr Balian said that the defendant had told a fantastical tale to deflect from his guilt in the case.

This was an Olympic year. If there was an event for running from the truth, hed be on the top of the podium, he said.

Mr Durst is only charged with killing Berman, but prosecutors allege he also murdered his wife and a Texas neighbour while hiding from law enforcement in 2001.

Mr Durst has admitted to killing his neighbour and dismembering the body but argued self-defence and was acquitted.

He has never been prosecuted over his wifes murder.
Three people have been arrested for allegedly stealing the identities of seven victims of the Surfside condo collapse in Florida.

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle announced the arrests of 30-year-old Betsy Alexandra Cacho Medina, 38-year-old Rodney Choute, and 34-year-old Kimberly Michelle Johnson on Wednesday.

They are charged with identity theft and schemes to defraud.

These individuals appear to be very skilled identity thieves, theyre professionals, Ms Fernandez Rundle said at a press briefing.

Calling the group cyber grave robbers, the state attorney said they took advantage of the situation, the victims, and their families as they were experiencing absolute emotional turmoil.

Their motto could have been Your losses, our gain, she said.

The three individuals were still in jail early on Thursday, according to The Washington Post. Its unclear if they have lawyers.

In July, Nicole Ortiz told WPLG that she noticed email notifications when she looked through her sisters iPad as she was writing her eulogy. Ana Ortiz died following the condo collapse on 24 June.

Nicole Ortiz said she saw emails about changes to her sisters credit cards, addresses were being changed and money transfers made.

They started changing all of the bank accounts, she said. The day after her sisters funeral, Nicole reported the concerning online activity to the Surfside Police Department.

After an investigation that lasted weeks and included both local police departments and federal agencies, authorities now say that at least three people have stolen the identities of seven victims of the Champlain Towers South collapse  five of whom died.

A total of $45,000 was stolen and used to buy designer handbags, shoes, and other expensive merchandise, according to police.

Ms Cacho Medina is referred to as the lead suspect by authorities, who say that in the days after the collapse in which 98 people died, she called Barclays Bank and pretended to be Ana Ortiz and asked that a new credit card be sent to a new address.

An audio recording of the call with the bank was played at the press briefing.

I was a victim of the towers that just collapsed, the Surfside, and all my belongings were in there, Ms Cacho Medina told an employee at the bank.

Oh, my gosh. Sorry about that, the employee said.

Its OK, Ms Cacho Medina responded.

Later that same day, the bank told the Aventura Police Department about the conversation.

The group of cyber grave robbers reportedly also used Ana Ortizs credit card at Christian Louboutin and Versace stores in Miami. According to officials, Ms Cacho Medina bought a Versace handbag for more than $1,600. She was later seen holding the bag in surveillance footage from Bloomingdales. Shes accused of spending another $2,500 at the store.

Ms Cacho Medina was seen driving a Mercedes in a mall parking lot. Law enforcement officials connected the addresses for the fresh credit card to the registered address for the vehicle.

The three arrested suspects have used fake forms of identification in the past, authorities said. They all allegedly used fake social security cards, and Mr Choute and Ms Johnson reportedly also used fake drivers licenses.

They also tried to get ahold of another $67,000 on top of the $45,000 already stolen.

The group of victims include Frankie Kleiman, the husband of Ana Ortiz, and Gladys and Antonio Lozano, who were residents of the condo building. They all died following the collapse of the tower.

The other three victims of the crimes have not been identified by officials.

Sergio Lozano, who had eaten dinner with his parents in the hours leading up to the collapse, told WFOR that the alleged theft started the day after his parents wake, on 3 July.

He saw transfers using Zelle, as well as a new online bank account in his mothers name. A request for fresh debit cards had also been made.

I dont find a more despicable crime than stealing from the dead, Mr Lozano said.

Ms Fernandez Rundle added that the investigation continues and others could be arrested in the near future.

Our community has been shaken at the horror that weve seen with the collapse of the Chaplain Tower South condominium and now were also further aggravated and shocked by those who would use this tragedy  to enrich themselves, she said. But we will not let any of those involved in these crimes get away with them.
A cannabis farm was uncovered in Michigan after a garbage truck crashed into a building, according to local law enforcement.

The Sterling Heights Police Department said the vehicle was trying avoid an oncoming car as it collided into the building, according reports. After authorities arrived at the scene, police discovered what they believe is a cannabis farm.

The moment showing the truck barrelling into the wall was captured on video and shared online. Police say no one was injured during the crash, which happened at approximately 5.30am.

Firefighters were also called to the scene to inspect the risks posed by the building after it was hit, according to WDIV.

Recreational use of the drug is legal in the state of Michigan, however, the amount found by authorities growing exceeded local restrictions. According to WDIV, there were roughly 260 plants accounted for by authorities.

In 2021, 650 plants have been seized in total, according to the Macomb Daily.

Growing marijuana inside a commercial building is not legal in the city of Sterling Heights. You need special permits to do that and Sterling Heights does not offer that option, Sean Allen, the citys fire marshal told local news outlet WJBK.

As of 8 September, the incident is still under investigation and no arrests have been made in connection to the crash.
The state of Los Angeles is likely to become the first major school district in the United States to mandate vaccination against Covid-19 for students who are 12 and older.

The LA board of education is scheduled to meet on Thursday afternoon to vote on a resolution to require vaccination for eligible students, the LA Times reported. The mandate is poised to get the green light as most of the seven-person board have agreed to approve the measure.

"Science clearly shows that vaccinations are an essential part of protecting our communities. Further details will be forthcoming after the vote," a statement from the board read. Los Angeles is the second-largest school district in the nation serving over 600,000 students.

Under the mandate, students who are 12-years-old and over would be required to get their first jab by 21 November and their second vaccine dose by 19 December. Students participating in in-person extra-curricular activities, such as sports, will be asked to complete their vaccination process by the end of October.

Children turning 12 after the stipulated time will be given a month to receive their first shot.

Proof of vaccination would have to be uploaded and approved in LAUSDs Daily Pass program except for those students with qualified and approved exemptions and conditional admissions" by 10 January 2022 in order to begin the next semester.

Our goal is to keep kids and teachers as safe as possible and in the classroom. A medical and scientific consensus has emerged that the best way to protect everyone in our schools and communities is for all those who are eligible to get vaccinated. This policy is the best way to make that happen," board member Nick Melvoin told LA Times.

Despite the surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths, due to the Delta variant, executive orders in a number of states ban school officials from imposing mask mandates. These orders contradict the federal guidance that directs everyone, including vaccinated individuals to wear masks inside schools.

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Health, 60 per cent of the district's 12-to-15-year-olds have had their first jab. The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released two studies on Friday which found that minors are more likely to be hospitalised due to the Delta variant. The studies did not provide clear answers as to whether Delta causes more severe disease in children than other variants however, and the hospitalisations could be due to the variants higher infectiousness.

The Los Angeles Times tracker based on district data revealed that 1,620 active cases had been identified at schools.
More than 1 million Americans have applied to a federal programme to cancel their student loan debt after 10 years of on-time payments while working in public sector jobs.

But only 20 per cent of those borrowers are on track to have their debt cancelled by 2026, nearly 10 years after they would start to become eligible for relief, according to an analysis from the Student Borrower Protection Center.

The Public Service Loan Forgiveness programme, created in 2007, aimed to provide relief for teachers, healthcare workers and other public workers who took on student loans in exchange for at least a decade of service work.

Following an analysis of programme data obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests from the Department of Education and Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Authority, which handles the programme, fewer than 300,000 borrowers will be eligible for relief by 2026  nearly 10 years after 2017, the year that eligible borrowers could begin to see their debts cancelled.

Without bold and swift action from Education Secretary Miguel Cardona and President Joe Biden, the programme is likely to fail the vast majority of borrowers working in public service over the long term, according to the centres Ben Kaufman.

Projections uncovered by the group reveal that on our current path, four of every five borrowers will still not have secured promised loan forgiveness, he said, and that the Education Department and its contractors know it.

The centre estimates 2.2 million borrowers will seek loan forgiveness through the programme by January 2026, but the current rate suggests that only one-in-eight borrowers will be eligible, making the one-in-five figure mentioned above an unfortunate best-case scenario unless the Biden administration intervenes, the report says.

The government has disputed the centres findings with the programme, which relies on a complex eligibility criteria applicable only to federally held loans.

But the findings have added to a growing list of reports reaching damning conclusions about the effectiveness of relief programmes and incremental efforts to pause or eliminate debt.

A report from the National Consumer Law Center found that only 32 people have ever qualified for loan cancellation through an income-based repayment plan that promises to cancel remaining debt after payments up to 25 years.

More than 8 million people have enrolled in income-driven repayment plans, and roughly 2 million people have been in repayment for more than 20 years, still holding debt  with interest  tied to their undergraduate tuition.

The latest report also adds fuel to a growing call demanding the Biden administration take stronger action against the debt crisis, which has ballooned to 45 million Americans holding more than $1.8 trillion in debt. Most of that debt  $1.5 trillion  is in federal loans.

A bulk of that debt surged over the last decade as private university enrolment grew and federal and state governments made steep cuts to higher-education funding against growing wealth inequality.

The president pledged to cancel up to $10,000 in federal loan debt before he entered the White House, adding that it should be done immediately upon taking office.

Mr Biden extended the coronavirus pandemic pause on federal student loan payments through September, and Secretary Cardona has rolled back a policy implemented by his predecessor Betsy DeVos to provide full debt relief for borrowers defrauded by for-profit schools.

Last month, the agency announced that it would automatically discharge debt for 323,000 student loan borrowers with disabilities, cancelling more than $5.8bn in student debt.

The education platform outlined in Mr Bidens American Families Plan would provide up to two years of tuition-free community college and universal preschool, but the plan does not include the debt relief measures outlined during his campaign.

As progressive lawmakers weigh congressional action, administration officials are reportedly mulling whether the president has authority  as many debt cancellation advocates have argued  to unilaterally cancel debt through executive action.
The wealthiest 1 per cent of Americans are responsible for more than $160bn (115bn) of lost tax revenue each year, a report has found.

The report, by the US treasury department, written by Natasha Sarin, deputy assistant secretary for economic policy, said that the countrys annual tax gap (the difference between taxes that are owed and collected) sits at around $600bn (430bn), and forecast an estimated $7 trillion of lost tax revenue over the next decade.

Ms Sarin added that the revenue lost is equal to three per cent of Americas gross domestic product (GDP) - all of the income taxes paid by the lowest-earning 90 per cent of taxpayers.

According to the report, the wealthiest 1 per cent of US taxpayers account for an estimated $163bn in unpaid tax each year, around 28 per cent of the tax gap.

Meanwhile, the wealthiest 5 per cent are responsible for more than 50 per cent of the tax gap and the top 20 per cent are responsible for 77.1 per cent.

Ms Sarin called the current tax system a two-tiered tax system, where ordinary Americans comply with their tax obligations, but many high-end taxpayers do not.

According to the report, compliance with income tax liabilities is nearly perfect for ordinary wage and salary income, with only a 1 per cent non-compliance rate.

However, it said, for opaque income sources that accrue disproportionately to higher earners - like partnership income, proprietorship income, and rental income - noncompliance can reach 55 percent.

Ms Sarin said: The tax gap can be a major source of inequity. Todays tax code contains two sets of rules: one for regular wage and salary workers who report virtually all the income they earn; and another for wealthy taxpayers, who are often able to avoid a large share of the taxes they owe.

Over the next decade, the Biden administration has proposed to inject $80bn (58bn) into the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which is under-staffed and using outdated technology, both of which are preventing the IRS from adequately collecting some 15 per cent of owed taxes.

It estimates that the cash injection could generate $320bn (230bn) in additional tax collections over the next ten years and a further $1.6 trillion in additional tax revenue in the following decade.

The Administration also proposed to use information that financial institutions already possess in order to audit more sophisticated tax evaders.

These changes to the third-party information reports are estimated to generate $460bn over a decade, it said.

Ms Sarin added that the Administrations proposals will not be used to target lower-income taxpayers.

She said: The Administration has been clear that audit rates will not rise relative to recent years for those with under $400,000 in actual income.

Instead, these proposals are about targeting enforcement actions where they belong: on higher earners who do not fully report their tax liabilities.
Rape crisis centres in Texas are worried that the states new abortion law could see them face legal ramifications.

Senate Bill 8, which went into force last week, stops women from having an abortion as soon as fetal cardiac activity is detectable, usually around week six of pregnancy, which is often before women know they are pregnant.

Texas new Heatbeat Bill does not have an exception for rape survivors, which was a common feature of anti-abortion legislation previously. Anyone who helps a victim of sexual assault carry out an abortion can be sued by members of the public.

As there could be financial rewards for an individual, the law has been criticised for encouraging pro-life bounty hunters.

The vague legal language of the bill could potentially implicate everyone from a councillor to a friend who takes a woman to an abortion clinic.

One centre that helps women who have been sexually assaulted recently got calls from a number of pro-life advocates asking what the centre would say to a rape victim who finds herself pregnant.

I felt like they were already fishing for a defendant in a lawsuit, chief executive Amy Jones of the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center told The Lily.

I would like to think that Im overreacting, but I have to look around at the reality, said Ms Jones. If I was really motivated to catch someone, I would look at organisations like mine.

Another worry is acts of revenge from abusive partners who target facilities that have helped women escape from their control. A number of women seek counselling or advice due to reproductive coercion  when a controlling partner forbid them from using contraception. If a woman does seek advice and support on her pregnancy, there's nothing to stop a partner from using the Texas abortion law to threaten or hurt the centre that helped her.

Ms Jones has advised her staff to adopt more general language and to tell callers to talk to their health care providers, if conversations around pregnancy come up.

The law absolutely did not centre the needs of survivors, said Emilee Whitehurst, CEO of Houston Area Women's Center, to the Houston Chronicle.

State Senator Bryan Hughes, a Republican who authored Senate Bill 8, believes an abortion would make rape survivors trauma worse. We wouldnt want to make the situation worse by taking an innocent life. We want to punish the rapist. We dont want to punish the little unborn baby.

Women seeking an abortion, after being raped or otherwise, will now either have to carry the fetus to term in Texas, seek an illegal potentially life-threatening abortion if they cannot travel out of state, or do the procedure in a state where abortion is legal, if they have the means.
A federal civil rights complaint has been filed against the University of Texas by one of Americas leading civil rights groups and some students for its continued use of the song The Eyes of Texas, which has a racist history.

The complaint, filed by the states chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People (NAACP) with the US Department of Education on 3 September, alleges that the repeated use of the offensive, disrespectful and aggressive song creates a hostile environment for Black students athletes, band members, faculty and alumni.

It alleges the university continued to use The Eyes of Texas as an alma mater song despite its racially offensive origin, context and meaning, reported The Texas Tribune.

The University of Texas has pushed back, saying that the song itself had no racist intent. The song, which was written in 1903, however, is known to be used in minstrel shows with musicians appearing in blackface, according to the Associated Press (AP).

The song, historically played after games and graduation ceremonies, has led to multiple incidents of harassment and racial discrimination against those who opposed it at the school, said the complaint.

The NAACP and a group of anonymous students urged the federal government to withhold federal funding from the university over non compliance.

On Wednesday, Gary Bledsoe, the president of the Texas NAACP and a law school graduate, slammed the state for requiring the universitys Longhorn Band to continue playing the song at athletic events and expecting athletes to stand and sing it despite opposition.

Its like slave owners making slaves buck dance for their entertainment, Mr Bledsoe said.

Last month, the song was played before and after a football match win over Louisiana-Lafayette and was given a sing along by a crowd of about 80,000 people.

A university spokesman did not immediately respond to the APs request for comment.

In 2020, in the aftermath of the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer, a group of athletes and students called for the school to drop the song as protests raged across the world over racial injustice.

But president Jay Hartzell, along with the support of the universitys Board of Regents, said it would remain, with the school research panel determining there to be no racist intent behind it.

In April, the university said the school would form a separate band in 2022 for students who did not wish to play The Eyes of Texas.

The complainants argued against this, stating that this created a separate but equal alternative, which violates equal protection standards afforded in the constitution.

Black students should be able to enjoy free campus life like other students, including participation in the Longhorn Band without having to deal with a racially offensive song or racial harassment and humiliation, the complaint argued.

Chris Beard, the coach of New Texas mens basketball team, said he was open to discussion about the song with his team as it could be a sensitive topic.

That song means a lot to different people. It means something to me, I'm an alum here, Mr Beard said. But I also know history is real, too. Everybody has a different perspective of history... We're open to everybody's feelings. I know that's a sensitive topic for a lot of people.
The Taliban is officially in control of Afghanistan, but that doesnt mean the US will recognise it on the international stage, according to Secretary of State Anthony Blinken. Instead, American support for the international legitimacy of new regime will have to be earned.

The Taliban seek international legitimacy and support, Mr Blinken told reporters during a meeting with his European counterparts at Ramstein Air Base in Germany on Wednesday. Any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned, and we heard that across the board, from everyone participating in todays session.

The Taliban announced a caretaker government on Tuesday filled with many hardline members of its past regimes, a political arrangement that Mr Blinken said certainly does not meet the test of inclusivity and it includes people who have very challenging track records.

The new government, largely composed of Taliban loyalists and no women rather than representatives of Afghanistans many different ethnic groups, includes Mohammad Hasan Akhund, a close aide to deceased Taliban founder Mullah OMar; Sirajuddin Haqqani, son of the founder of the Haqqani terror network and one of the FBIs most wanted men; and Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, son of Mullah OMar himself.

The group had previously promised an inclusive new regime, as it seeks to form a softer public image on the international stage.

The Islamic Emirate decided to appoint and announce a caretaker cabinet to carry out the necessary government works, Taliban chief spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said on Tuesday, noting it was an acting government which would eventually try to take people from other parts of the country.

The armed group has missed an early chance as it retook Afghanistan to build a more stable political arrangement for the country, American University of Afghanistans Obaidullah Baheer told Al Jazeera .

The amount of time spent wasnt on discussing or negotiating inclusivity or potential power sharing with other political parties. That time was spent on knowing how to split that pie amongst their own ranks, he said.

United Nations spokesperson Farhan Haq has also criticised the new government plan, telling reporters in New York that only a negotiated and inclusive settlement will bring sustainable peace to Afghanistan.

Despite a concerted effort to engage with the international community, including opening a foreign office in Doha, Qatar, as well as social media profiles, its not evident yet the Taliban has changed its actual treatment of Americans and Afghans on the ground.

Those leaving the country reported problems and delays earlier this week getting chartered planes out of the airport, now under Taliban control, and the US has begun moving to evacuate people overland in addition to the Kabul airport.

And despite promises of an  amnesty  for those who cooperated with US and other foreign troops, Afghans report Taliban fighters are still seeking out and executing old political enemies.

On Tuesday, the Taliban violently broke up a protest in Kabul of hundreds of people, including many women, with warning gunshots, beatings, and detentions.

German Minister of Foreign Affairs Heiko Maas said the international community wont abandon Afghanistan, even if the Taliban rule proves to be retrograde, but argued during the meeting on Wednesday that, It must be clear to the Taliban that international isolation cannot be in their interest.
US Rep Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has mocked the former Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin, joking she has set up a hotline where complaints can be directed to.

Does my existence make you mad? thew New York Democrat asked in a video posted to her Twitter account.

Does the fact that yes I am a mouthpiece for the people of New Yorks 14th Congressional District upset you?

Well I have help for you. Call 1-800-Cry-Now. Thats 1-800-Cry-Now.

Im so sorry Sarah Palin is mad at me! In fact, to address this I set up a special hotline just for her https://t.co/FGUWvdqt4T pic.twitter.com/Fcr8cYvEYT  Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (@AOC) September 9, 2021

The video, which had received more than 434,00 views in three hours, was made in response to criticism by Ms Palin about the new Texas abortion law.

In a Fox News appearance, Ms Palin said AOC was milking it in her inimitable, word-salad style of speaking.

She is such a fake feminist Shes milking the whole female thing and as a real feminist Im embarrassed for her.

Sarah Palin (remember her?) word salads her way through slamming Rep. @AOC (D-NY) and her criticism of Gov. Greg Abbotts (R-TX) abortion law comments:



She is such a fake feminist ... Shes milking the whole female thing, and as a real feminist, Im embarrassed for her. pic.twitter.com/EvW9YJ8TQv  The Recount (@therecount) September 9, 2021

Ms Ocasio-Cortez has been among the most vociferous critics of Texas abortion laws, which bans the procedure after six weeks, before many parents even know theyre pregnant.

The law would also encourage private citizens to file lawsuits against anyone accused of aiding or abetting the practice of an abortion after six weeks, other than the patient themselves.

On Thursday, AOC said she had helped raised $250,000 for grassroots pro-choice organisers and healthcare providers in Texas.

By allowing any person to financially destroy pregnant people on a whim, they knowingly handed over the keys of manipulation & control to people most likely to use it, she wrote on Twitter.

Dont let them feign ignorance about this. They know exactly what theyre doing. This is about fear & control.

On Thursday, Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the Department of Justice would sue the state of Texas over the draconian new abortion laws.
Joe Biden has announced a sweeping new string of tough measures designed to combat the continued spread of Covid-19 as the Delta variant of the virus spikes across the United States.

The president urged nearly 80m unvaccinated Americans to get the shot and told that group that the rest of the countrys patience is wearing thin with them.

Mr Biden cannot simply mandate that all Americans get vaccinated against the virus, but the new rules could cover as many as 100m people, according to the White House.

Here are the key points of the Biden administrations plan that was announced on Thursday.

:: All federal employees required to be vaccinated, with no option of regular testing to opt-out. Vast majority of federal employees will get 75-day grace period to get vaccinated.

:: Federal mandate will apply to all employees of executive branch, the White House, all federal agencies and every member of the armed services, but not those who work in Congress or federal court system.

:: President will sign executive order extending vaccination requirement to employees of all contractors who do business with the federal government.

:: 17m health care workers employed by institutions that accept Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement will be required to get vaccinated, including hospitals and nursing homes.

:: All employers with more than 100 employees to ensure their workers are vaccinated or get tested weekly. Companies could face fines of up to $14,000 per employee if they do not comply.

:: All 300,000 educators in federal Head Start programmes will be required to be vaccinated and president will call on governors to require vaccinations for schoolteachers and staff.

:: Free booster shots for most Americans once approved by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

:: Reduce costs of Covid-19 testing for Americans, administration to work with US retailers such as Wal-Mart, Amazon and Kroger to make at-home testing kits available at cost.

:: Transportation Safety Administration will double fines on passengers who refuse to wear masks on planes. Minimum fine will be raised to $500 and maximum fine raised to $3,000 for repeat offenders.
President Joe Biden has unveiled a plan that could drastically reduce the price Americans pay for medicine by letting Medicare, the federal health programme for seniors, negotiate directly with drug makers over rates.

Mr Biden has been pushing for months to lower prices, urging Democrats to include the provision about negotiation in their proposed $3.5 trillion budget package .

There arent a lot of things that almost every American could agree on, the president said last month . But I think it is safe to say that all of us, whatever our background or our age and where we live, could agree that prescription drug prices are outrageously expensive in America.

The plan , released on Thursday, gives the most detailed look yet at how the administration might accomplish its goal, and goes even further than legislation proposed by Democrats in Congress.

In addition to letting Medicare negotiate drug prices, it also includes a raft of other potential measures: tying Medicare reimbursement to drugs clinical value; directing the department of Health and Human Services to collect data to improve price transparency; having the National Institute of Health invest in innovation; speeding up the patent process for drug alternatives; prohibiting pharmaceutical companies from paying generic drug makers to hold off on marketing their treatments; and cutting down on anti-competitive abuse of the patent system.

The Biden-Harris Administration remains committed to making health care more affordable for American families, and this Plan outlines one key way we will do that, Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said in a statement. By promoting negotiation, competition, and innovation in the health care industry, we will ensure cost fairness and protect access to care.

Republican leaders are likely to oppose the plan, and the pharmaceutical industry has already spoken out against Mr Bidens priorities on the issue, arguing that allowing Medicare to negotiate is a form of price control and could lower patient access to drugs.

Many in Congress know that access to medicine is critical for millions of patients, and Medicare is not a piggy bank to be raided to fund other, unrelated government programs, Steve Ubl, president of the industry lobby group PhRMA, said last month.

In 2003, Republicans explicitly banned Medicare from negotiating drug prices, as part of a prescription drug benefit packet. Since then, lowering drug prices has been a priority for both parties.

The Trump administration sought to lower drug prices late in its term with a series of new federal rules, which were challenged in court by industry groups .

Mr Biden didnt join other Democrats during the 2020 in calling for a public health insurance system or Medicare for all, but has backed the idea of a public insurance option within Obamacare.

Compared to most other wealthy countries, which usually have government-run health systems that set drug prices, the US pays far more for prescription medicine, averaging 2.56 times higher prices than those seen in 32 other nations, according to a 28 January report from the RAND Corporation.

For the generic drugs that make up a large majority of the prescriptions written in the United States, our costs are lower, the reports author Andrew Mulcahy said. Its just for the brand name drugs that we pay through the nose.
California lawmakers have passed a landmark bill seeking to give warehouse staff more protection from production quotas, say reports.

Assembly Bill 701 was written in reaction to the high reported rates of injuries in Amazon warehouses, and passed by 26 votes to 11.

The bill bans companies, such as Amazon and similar businesses, from imposing production quotas that stop workers from taking their legally entitled breaks and going to the bathroom. In addition, the bill states that productivity is not more important than working conditions. The bill enables workers to take legal action against their employers if they have infringed workers rights.

The new rules could also force companies to publish the health impacts of the demands of their jobs. Records of quotas and other documents must be kept available by employers.

In the Amazon warehouse space, what were trying to take on is this increased use of quotas and discipline based on not meeting the quotas, without a human factor in dealing with a reason why a worker might not make a quota, the author of the bill, Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez said last week, according to The New York Times.

Experts have spoken out about their support for the move, acknowledging its a great start. But they say there is more to be done.

Its the first step in changing workplace conditions in the warehouse, Veena Dubal, who researches labour law and technology at the University of California, told NPR.

Sheheryar Kaoosji, executive director of the Warehouse Worker Resource Center, a Canadian advocacy group, told The Los Angeles Times: We think its a really good bill, but injury rates indicate that theres a lot we need to do to protect workers. This is a good first step, but we wont rest until warehouses are much, much safer.

Ms Gonzalez, who previously brought forward legislation regarding ride-sharing app Uber classifying their workers as contractors, told NPR she was absolutely focused on Amazon, but outlined that the legislation was aimed at other businesses with similar practices.

The California Chamber of Commerce, a body representing shop owners and other figures in business, put it the legislation on their job killer list, but after amendments were made, the chamber removed it.

In a statement, the California Retailers Association warned customers will pay the price if it becomes signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, who has not voiced an opinion on the bill.

In April, Amazon founder Jeff Bezo wrote a letter to shareholders, his last as CEO, and said 6,200 safety officers had been hired and promised $300 million towards creating a safer work environment.

According to the letter, roughly 40 per cent of the staffs injuries were musculoskeletal disorders; sprains, back pain and so on, which are injuries believed to come from repeating the same practices over again.

These issues account for over half of non-deadly workplace injuries requiring a trip the emergency room, according to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics.

Retail experts have said that Amazons warehouse practices have enabled them to become the success they are.

I believe one of Amazons biggest competitive advantages over rivals is this ability to monitor their workforce, prod workers to work faster and discipline workers when they fail to meet quotas, Beth Gutelius from the Center for Urban Economic Development at the University of Illinois Chicago told the Times.

During the spread of Covid-19, Amazons profits due to the decline of in-person shopping. In the last economic quarter, US profits were reported to hit $5.6 billion.

The Independent has contacted Amazon for comment.
The Capitol Police believed it was highly improbable that groups demonstrating in Washington DC on 6 January would cause violence or civil unrest, a trove of new documents revea l, even as the force had doubts about the identities of some groups seeking permits to assemble.

Following the 2020 presidential contest, as the right-wing stop the steal movement gained influence spreading election conspiracies, a number of groups sought to hold events around the US Capitol on 6 January, the day Congress would formally certify the election results that had already been confirmed by each state.

BuzzFeed News obtained the records pertaining to rally permits for five of these groups. It found that despite officers concerns that one group didnt appear to exist, and all five seemed to be affiliated with stop the steal-related groups, all of them were approved.

Ultimately, top Capitol Police officials signed off on the events, finding they had no plans for participants to enter the buildings, and there was no adverse intelligence related to the upcoming event.

While none of the events reviewed have been directly accused of fueling the 6 January riot at the US Capitol, the investigation nonetheless reveals how the Capitols top policy agency viewed the threat environment in the run-up to the insurrection that eventually took place, which injured hundreds and killed five people .

In December 2020, a group called One Nation Under Good filed to host an event AT the Capitol on 6 January protesting election fraud in swing states.

An officer reviewing the application wrote that, One Nation Under God is not an organization and does not maintain social media accounts or webpages.

The officer also noted that research showed the group may be linked to Ali Alexander, a prominent right-wing activist who spread election conspiracies related to the stop the steal movement. (Mr Alexander did not respond to BuzzFeeds request for comment.)

It appears that the Stop the Steal and the One Nation Under God is one in the same due to the similarities and the affiliation with Ali Alexander, the officer added, noting that there were worries the permit requests  are being used as proxies for Stop the Steal and may also be involved with organizations that may be planning trouble.

After interviewing personnel listed on the application, who failed to back up basic details on matters like the groups leadership, One Nation Under Gods permit was approved anyway.

Other groups were researched with little more than a quick internet search before their applications were approved.

Right-wing groups spent months online openly describing their efforts to challenge the 2020 election results in increasingly violent terms on social media before 6 January.

The US Capitol police defended its vetting procedures in a statement to BuzzFeed.

Denying someone a permit based only on a belief that the group is a proxy for another group would be an unlawful prior restraint, it wrote. Before January 6, the Capitol Police knew the Congress and the Capitol Grounds were to be the focus of a large demonstration attracting various groups, including some encouraging violence.

Republicans in Congress rejected efforts for a bipartisan, independent, 9/11 Commission-style inquiry into the Capitol riots earlier this year.

Still, in July, a House select committee began looking into the insurrection , and since then, a number of Washington-based police officers have testified.

Since then, the committee has requested communications between Donald Trump and top officials from the day of the riot, as well as records from eight different federal agencies and entities.

If the requests arent honoured, it could prompt the committee to launch subpoenas, setting up a likely ugly legal battle between the sitting Congress and the former president, who is now a private citizen without the special legal resources and protections of being in the White House.
Democrats began pushing plans for providing paid family and medical leave, easing climate change and bolstering education through House committees Thursday as they battled Republicans and among themselves over President Joe Biden s $3.5 trillion vision for reshaping federal priorities.

Five separate panels worked on their slices of the 10-year proposal, early steps in what looms as a fraught autumn for Democrats hoping to enact a remarkable range of major policy changes. They face not only solid GOP opposition but internal divisions among progressives and moderates in a Congress they control so narrowly that they can afford only three House defections, none in the Senate.

We have a once-in-a-generation chance to make transformative, beneficial change," said House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal D-Mass., as his tax-writing panel debated its pivotal chunk of the voluminous legislation. This is our moment to lay a new foundation of opportunity for the American people."

Republicans cast the still-evolving measure as an economy killer that would raise taxes, cost jobs, worsen federal debt and make people increasingly reliant on government. In a signal of the broad political potency they believe the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan offers, they repeatedly conjured that image to belittle Democrats' economic plans.

Following the humiliating Afghanistan surrender, now President Biden is leading America on an economic surrender to China, Russia, Europe and the Middle East," said the top Republican on Ways and Means, Rep. Kevin Brady of Texas.

In an early manifestation of Democratic unrest, one member of the Ways and Means panel said that for now, she planned to vote against that committee's portion of the bill.

Moderate Rep. Stephanie Murphy D-Fla., complained that lawmakers still lacked information on how much it would cost and had not been shown key portions of it dealing with taxes and prescription drug prices. Murphy is co-chair of the House Blue Dog Coalition, whose members include some of Congress' most conservative Democrats.

I don't know how much we're spending, how much we're raising, how we're spending some of the money and how we're raising any of the money, Murphy told her colleagues.

Democrats have said they will pay for much of the overall bill by raising taxes on the rich and corporations. They've said no one earning under $400,000 annually would face higher levies.

By Thursday afternoon Neal had not released details of any revenue proposals, including the tax boosts or some tax cuts his party wants to use to help ease people's costs for health care and other needs.

Also not released yet were Neal's plans to let Medicare save money by negotiating prices they pay for prescription drugs, another way they hope to raise money for the bill's priorities.

Moderate Democrats  mostly prominently Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona  have said the bill's proposed $3.5 trillion cost is too high. Congressional Democratic leaders have conceded that the price tag may have to fall to retain moderate votes, causing anger among progressives who want the package to spend as much as possible.

House and Senate Democrats also must still reach agreements on many issues, including key questions about overall spending and revenues.

The Ways and Means portion of the measure is to contain many of Biden's top priorities. These include creation of up to 12 weeks per year of family and medical leave for all workers beginning in 2023. The benefit would pay the lowest-earning workers up to 85% of their wages, a percentage that would fall for higher earners.

Democrats on the committee batted down Republican amendments. One by Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pa., would have delayed the paid leave program from taking effect until six months after the Treasury Department would certify that the government had enough expertise to start it.

Separately, the House Education and Labor Committee was working on a proposed $761 billion in spending to create free pre-school and community college and increase funds for job training, nutrition programs and modernizing public school buildings.

The House Natural Resources Committee was working on $30 billion for addressing climate change and other environmental issues. This includes money to protect coastlines from rising seas and create Biden's proposed Civilian Climate Corps, which would employ hundreds of thousands of people on environmental projects.

Other panels were working on provisions for small business and science programs.

Top Democrats want to quickly assemble the overall bill, which 13 House committees are crafting, by late September in hopes of moving it through the full House and Senate. That may well prove overly ambitious.

That speed is partly designed to satisfy moderates, whom House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., has told can expect consideration of a separate $1 trillion infrastructure measure by month's end. Moderates consider that public works bill their top priority, and leaders will need their backing to pass the larger, $3.5 trillion bill.

___

Associated Press reporter Matthew Daly contributed to this report.
A delegation of West African leaders is to go to Guinea Thursday to meet with the junta that toppled President Alpha Conde in a coup earlier this week.

Top officials of West Africa's influential economic bloc, ECOWAS, are expected to meet in Conakry, the capital, with the military officers now ruling the country and press them to immediately return the country to constitutional rule.

The 15-nation regional bloc has suspended Guinea following the coup led by Col. Mamady Doumbouya, according to a communique issued after a virtual summit of the region's leaders.

The authorities expressed deep concern over the coup detat of September 5, 2021, and their consequences for regional peace and stability, the communique said. ECOWAS reaffirmed its opposition to any political changes by unconstitutional means and condemn in strongest terms, this coup.

The regional bloc urged Guinea's coup leaders to assure the safety of the deposed president as well as that of all arrested persons. Conde remains in the custody of the junta, who have only said that he is in a secure location with access to medical care.

Ghanas President Nana Addo Akufo-Addo said the coup is a violation of our common charter on governance in the ECOWAS region.

Guinea's junta has released dozens of political prisoners jailed by the previous civilian government.

The 79 prisoners freed had been held on a variety of charges, including breaching security, destroying public property and manufacturing weapons. All were invited to attend a political rally Saturday in Guinea's capital, Conakry.

Many of those freed are activists from the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea, a longtime opposition party led by Cellou Dalein Diallo, who ran and lost to Conde in the last three presidential polls.

The opposition has said it will work together with the junta but also urged the new military leadership to quickly restore the rule of law.

The prisoners release was welcomed by Guineans who had demonstrated against Condes quest for a third term in office last year.

Conde, who already had served two terms, said last year that the constitutional term limits no longer applied after voters backed a referendum at his behest. The 83-year-old could have remained in power until 2030 until Sundays military coup.
Vice president Kamala Harris criticized Texas governor Greg Abbott for saying he would eliminate rape so women do not seek abortions in his state.

The vice president said Mr Abbott dismissed concerns about women who are raped and are seeking abortions.

The words that he spoke were the words that were, to arrogantly dismiss concerns about rape survivors, she said. And to speak those words, that were empty words, that were false words, that were fuelled with not only arrogance but bravado, that is not who we want in our leaders.

Ms Harris made the remarks in California while campaigning for governor Gavin Newsom, who is facing a recall election in the Golden State. The vice presidents remarks came as White House press secretary Jen Psaki was asked about Mr Abbotts remarks earlier on Wednesday during a press briefing.

If governor Abbott has a means of eliminating all rapists or all rape from the US, then thered be bipartisan support for that, she said.

Mr Abbott was asked about rape victims having to carry their pregnancies to term because of the states ban on abortions after six weeks.

Rape is a crime, and Texas will work tirelessly to make sure we eliminate all rapists from the streets of Texas by aggressively going out and arresting them and prosecuting them and getting them off the streets, Mr Abbott said on Tuesday.

The White House and the governor have gone back and forth on the law, which bans abortion once fetal cardiac activity is detected, which is typically six weeks into a pregnancy and before most women know they are pregnant.

President Joe Biden has denounced the law and the provision in the law that would allow people anywhere in the United States to sue someone who aids and abets obtaining an abortion in Texas and receive $10,000 and payments for legal fees if successful. Mr Biden also said last week that he was told that the US Department of Justice might have to limit the independent action of individuals enforcing the provision he worried could lead people to act as vigilantes.
For then-Sen. Joe Biden Sept. 11, 2001, started like most days: riding the 8:35 a.m. Amtrak to work. He had a relatively quiet day planned, including meetings with constituents and a nomination hearing.

Then his wife, Jill, called, telling him a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. Mid-sentence, she cried, Oh my God. Oh my God. Oh my God.

The second tower was hit.

The terrorist attacks that day shattered Americans sense of security and ushered in an era of nebulous threats, hidden enemies and a seemingly never-ending war on terror. And for Biden, a failed presidential candidate whose political career appeared to have peaked, they marked a new phase of his public life.

The Delaware senator and chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee would devote even more energy to international affairs. He would point to that experience during his ultimately successful White House bid last year to portray himself as a seasoned statesman who could restore American stability and prestige. And it would inform his controversial decision to withdraw from Afghanistan, effectively ending the war that began in the wake of the terror attacks.

None of those twists, however, seemed inevitable when Biden's train arrived at Washington s Union Station on Sept. 11.

As he entered the city, he saw smoke in the sky from another plane that had struck the Pentagon. His first instinct, and the one that guided his actions in the dark days and weeks to come, was to reassure  his family, his staff, but most of all average Americans concerned about their future in a country seemingly under siege.

Biden marched up to the steps of the Senate wanting to get onto the Senate floor.

He later said that I thought it was awfully important that the Senate be in session. That people see us. That they could turn on their TV and see where we were.

But the Capitol and the surrounding complex of offices and official buildings, including the Supreme Court, had been evacuated, and Biden was turned away by Capitol police, who said there was a risk that the Capitol could be attacked next.

So instead, he took his message to the streets around the Capitol.

Biden's former press secretary Margaret Aitken spent the morning by his side, fielding requests from reporters to speak with the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and watched as Biden spent hours talking to his colleagues, staffers and even tourists on the streets about what had happened.

People were stopping him on the street and saying, Are we alright? Are we going to be okay? she recalled.

Initially, both President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney were taken to undisclosed locations and had yet to address the nation extensively about the situation, so Bidens priority, Aitken said, was to make sure that people knew that the U.S. government was up and operational and functioning.

Biden's daughter, Ashley, called him panicked, telling him there were reports of another plane coming for the Capitol. Get out of there, she implored him, but he resisted, telling her this is the safest place to be. Shortly after, the fourth plane came down in Pennsylvania.

Later in the day, Biden joined a few dozen lawmakers at the Capitol police headquarters near Union Station, where he found Philadelphia Rep. Bob Brady, a longtime friend. After the chaotic morning, Brady said Biden was a sight for sore eyes.

Brady said they largely spent the time watching news coverage, and so both decided to leave, with Biden planning to hitch a ride home with Brady. They walked out directly into a group of waiting reporters, and Brady and the other lawmakers pushed Biden to speak.

I looked at him and said, youre the boss, man, youre the highest one here, Brady recounted.

Facing the cameras, Biden again called for calm. He cautioned against making quick judgments of the situation, expressed support for Bush and said the most important thing was for the government to be back up and running as quickly as we can.

As they hopped in a van, Biden got a call from Bush and he used the moment to recount a story about Charles de Gaulle standing tall in the midst of gunfire during a parade at the end of World War II, giving the French people confidence. He told Bush: Come back to Washington. The president eventually did, late that night, but Biden wrote in his memoir that his initial absence made him less sure that President Bush could provide the wisdom and judgment this new reality demanded.

Brady and Biden spent the rest of the ride to Wilmington listening to the radio and talking about the future, trying to piece together what the hell was going to happen next. The congressman dropped Biden off at the Wilmington Amtrak station. But his day wasnt over yet.

Brian McGlinchey, a special assistant and projects director for Biden, had spent the afternoon in the senators district office with about a dozen other staffers taking phone calls from worried constituents. They planned to stay late into the night, and were weary after hours of fielding questions they struggled to answer.

Just as the day was turning to night, McGlinchey recounted, lo and behold, who walks in the doors with Gerardos pizza but the man himself.

Biden, shirtsleeves rolled up but tie still on, had brought a dozen pizzas from one of his favorite Wilmington shops and a message of encouragement for his staff.

Were gonna get through this, he told them. Dark days are not always going to be in front of us.

And honest to God, it was like somebody flipped a switch. We really needed that, McGlinchey said.

Biden told them he was proud of their work, and talked about what it means to be an American, and how we shine in these kinds of defining moments. McGlinchey gave Biden a hug. The senator left for home, but his staff, newly energized, stayed at the office until midnight.

His message to staff was one Biden would bring to Americans again and again in the coming weeks, with an appearance on Oprah Winfreys show, endless television interviews and speeches at colleges and universities across Delaware. On Sept. 19, he delivered a speech at the University of Delaware that held early echoes of the message hed bring again decades later as president, to Americans facing new crises at home and abroad.

This isnt a time for fear," he said. This is a time to keep going, not to retreat; to mourn those who died, but not to despair. Its a time for resolve, but not remorse. But most importantly, its a time to unite and not debate, because we all know what we have to do.
President Joe Biden has unveiled a tougher strategy against Covid-19 centred around a nationwide vaccination mandate for federal and private employers.

Under a White House plan, every employer with 100 employees or more will be required to institute a mandate requiring that unvaccinated workers must either get the vaccine or submit to weekly Covid-19 testing.

His plan also includes a major expansion of federally-backed Covid-19 testing. More than 80 million workers are expected to be affected by the mandate, which Mr Biden noted that many companies, even Fox News, are already instituting at their own discretion. The Department of Labour will be directed to instruct employers to give workers paid time off to receive their shots.

This is a pandemic of the unvaccinated, and it is caused that despite the fact that America has an unprecedented vaccination system ... we still have 80 million Americans unwilling to get the shot, he said.

Many of us are frustrated with the nearly 80 million Americans who are not vaccinated, the president continued, adding that the roughly one in four Americans who say they are hesitant to get the Covid-19 vaccine can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

Unvaccinated overcrowd our hospitals ... leaving no room for those with a heart attack or cancer, Mr Biden said.

The president did not mince words with his address. He took direct shots at Republican politicians around the country who he identified as guilty of actively undermining the fight against Covid-19, and even took the rare step of criticising private citizens who have chosen so far to remain unvaccinated against the virus: "Weve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin and the refusal has cost all of us.

If these governors wont help us beat the pandemic, Ill use my power as president to get them out of the way, said Mr Biden.

He characterised the country as divided between a silent majority of the vaccinated, eager to return to normalcy after more than a year of Covid-related public health restrictions, and a smaller minority of vocal vaccine sceptics who he said were preventing Americas economy and society at large from overcoming the pandemic.

Weve made so much progress in the last seven months of this pandemic, Mr Biden said. Even so, we remain at a critical moment, a critical time. We have the tools, now we just have to finish the job with truth, with science, with confidence.

Heres the math: the vast majority of Americans are doing the right thing, charged the president. Nearly three quarters of the eligible population has gotten at least one shot.

His plan is likely to run into resistance from local GOP officials, as many Republicans around the country have chafed at the idea that the government at any level has the authority to implement mandates for issues including both vaccines and mask-wearing.

But its unlikely he will face significant roadblocks to the plan on Capitol Hill, where his party remains in control of both houses of Congress.

The president concluded the speech on Thursday afternoon without answering questions from reporters, echoing previous instances that have drawn criticism from some in the mainstream press who are frustrated about the inability to question Mr Biden directly about his plans.

The announcement of the USs strictest measures yet to fight the Covid-19 crisis come as the Delta variant continues to rage across the US, and in particular in areas where vaccination rates remain lower than the national average.

Many hospitals in rural areas and other regions where vaccination rates are lagging have become overwhelmed by new waves of severe Covid-19 cases, with doctors warning that unvaccinated individuals make up nearly all of those admitted to the ICU for coronavirus infections.

Hospital workers and others in care settings will be required to receive the vaccine, with no word on exceptions, under the new White House requirements that also will apply to every federal worker and contractor; those requirements for federal employees and contractors are expected to affect nearly 10 million people.

Other provisions will affect air travel, which has seen a rise in hostile encounters between passengers and flight crew over the past year, as the president warned that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) was planning to double fines for mask violations.

"If you break the rules, be prepared to pay, the president warned.

Conservative commentators were crying foul on social media minutes after the speech ended, with many declaring the presidents remarks about governors tyranny as unconstitutional.

Republican politicians vowed to fight the national mandates in court.

My legal team is standing by ready to file our lawsuit the minute @joebiden files his unconstitutional rule. This gross example of federal intrusion will not stand, tweeted South Dakota governor Kristi Noem.
Joe Biden seemed to call out Florida governor Ron DeSantis and other high-profile Republican leaders who have moved to block vaccine and mask mandates even as the Delta variant continues to devastate the country.

Local school officials are trying to keep children safe in a pandemic, while their governor picks fights with them and even threatens their salaries or their jobs. Talking about bullying in schools, Mr Biden said during remarks on Thursday at the White House about the state of the pandemic.

If these governors wont help us beat the pandemic, I will use my powers as president to get them out of the way.

In states like Florida, one of the worst epicentres of the Delta variant crisis, officials risk financial penalties for their school if they move forward with measures like mask requirements. Mr Biden vowed to support any educators whose pay is impacted by such policies.

I promise you, he said. I will have your back.

A judge in Florida has recently ruled that Mr DeSantis orders banning school mask mandates overstepped his authority, and that the mandates could continue while the DeSantis administration launches a legal appeal in higher court.

During his address, the president also rolled out a vaccine requirement for all federal workers, contractors, and health care workers at facilities receiving Medicare or Medicaid funds. The policy will apply to more than 2 million people who work for the government.

Mr Biden also urged Americans to get vaccinated. Unvaccinated people with the Delta variant have been the major driversand victims  of the most recent phase of the pandemic, where America is averaging over 151,000 new cases a day.

What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see? Weve made vaccinations free, safe and convenient. The vaccine has FDA approval, over 200 million Americans have gotten at least one shot, Mr Biden said. Weve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin, and the refusal has cost all of us. So please do the right thing.

To make this a reality, the president said he would asked the Department of Labour to issue a rule requiring companies with more than 100 people to mandate vaccines or testing.

The administration is also planning to up the average weekly pace of shipments of free monoclonal antibody treatments, up fines for travellers who dont wear masks at air ports, and make 280 million rapid and at-home Covid tests available.
Joe Manchin has again come under fire for holding up a $3.5 trillion (2.5 trillion) reconciliation bill, which caused fellow Democrat Katie Porter to ask whether or not he was more concerned about his corporate donors than aiding Americans.

The bill, which needs all 50 Democratic senators to pass the Senate, is among the largest bills to pass through both houses of Congress and is a top priority for Joe Biden, whose domestic agenda largely depends on the bill being passed.

Mr Manchin wrote in an-oped for the Wall Street Journal last week that he wont support spending another $3.5 trillion and that Congress should hit a strategic pause on the budget-reconciliation legislation.

While some have suggested this reconciliation legislation must be passed now, the Democrat wrote, I believe that making budgetary decisions under artificial political deadlines never leads to good policy or sound decisions.

Ms Porter, a Democratic member of the House, was among those to challenge Mr Manchin in an interview with MSNBCs The Recount on Thursday, and said the money was there to pay for the reconciliation bill.

If we use the minimum corporate tax approach, we could generate $40 billion (28.8 billion), the California congresswoman said of covering the cost of the bill through corporation tax  noting that many corporations were paying zero.

Right there Senator Manchin, right there anybody thats worried about spending, we can generate the revenue so this isnt about $3.5 trillion in spending, Ms Porter argued. Its not even now about $3.5 trillion in spending because we're gonna generate the revenue to pay for these things.

She went on to ask whether or not the Democratic senator was more concerned about his corporate donors, including large corporations, the oil-gas industry, the big pharma industry, who could be forced to pay more corporation tax to cover the Biden agenda.

Congressional committees began to meet this week to discuss a tax plan, which could see the corporate tax rate rising from 21 per cent to 25 per cent, and individual income tax rate from 37 per cent to 39.6 per cent, according to The New York Times. A tax on billionaires is also under consideration.

The reconciliation bill will finance spending on areas including health care, infrastructure, housing and on climate policy.
Marjorie Taylor Greene faces a $2500 fine for refusing to wear a mask in defiance of a House mandate.

Ms Taylor Greene, who is suing over a $500 fine given for not wearing a mask a second time, was among several GOP protesters who spoke out against the mandate reinstated in July by the Office of the Attending Physician.

Capitol police chief Thomas Manger ordered officers to report any members of Congress who refuse to wear a mask, warning they could be subject to arrest for unlawful entry under DC Code 22-3302.

While Ms Taylor Greene wasnt cuffed for going maskless, she faces the increased fine from the House Sergeant at Arms for her third offence. The first offence comes with a warning.

Chip Roy, of Texas, was also fined but will only face $500 for his second offence.

Neither filed an appeal, with Mr Roy telling Forbes filing an appeal to tyrannical overlords is a futile gesture. He said appealing also leaves him without standing to sue.

Ms Taylor Greene, along with Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Ralph Norman of South Carolina, filed a lawsuit against House speaker Nancy Pelosi over $500 fines in May.

Following the reinstated mask mandate in late July, Ms Taylor Greene was among the ringleaders of the GOP lawmakers against the mandate.

Mr Massie and Nancy Mace dared the Capitol police to come for them, while Lauren Boebert reportedly dropped an offered mask to the floor.

Ms Taylor Greene, meanwhile, called on every Republican to refuse the "bulls***" and posted parody videos directing people which side of the velvet rope in Congress allowed people to wear masks. The Senate side of the building had not issued a mask mandate of its own.

Dr [Brian] Monahan has no authority to fine us or tell members that we cant vote if we arent wearing a mask, she said in a July tweet.

In other words, Dr Monahan is just another Pelosi puppet and is guilty of medical malpractice.
Barack Obama has urged Californians to back Gavin Newsom in the states recall election, saying that the vote is about protecting your kids.

Voters will get their final chance to vote in the election on 14 September and decide the future of the Democratic governor.

And the former president jumped into the race, which pollsters say appears to have swung back in favour of Mr Newsom, and asked them to support him.

California! Youve got a big choice to make by September 14, and everything is on the line, Mr Obama tweeted.

Your vote could be the difference between protecting our kids or putting them at risk; helping Californians recover or taking us backwards. Vote no on the Republican recall.

The Republican-led campaign, which could remove Mr Newsom from office a year early, will take place after 1.7m petition signatures were collected by his opponents and certified by state officials.

California is one of 20 states with a mechanism to recall a sitting governor and the last time the move was successful was in 2003, when Democratic governor Gray Davis was replaced by Hollywood star Arnold Schwarzenegger, who ran as a Republican.

Around 58 per cent of registered voters in California say they would back Mr Newsom against the recall vote, according to a new poll.

A Suffolk University poll, which surveyed 500 registered voters, found 41 per cent of respondents said they are in favour of a recall, while 57.8 per cent of those polled say they want Mr Newsom to remain governor of California.

The leading Republican in the race to take his job, conservative radio host Larry Elder, has pledged to reverse Californias mask and vaccination mandates if he wins.

The polling split heavily along party lines with 90 per cent of Democrats saying they will vote against the recall, and 80 per cent of Republicans saying they will vote to recall him.

Joe Biden will travel to California early next week to campaign for Mr Newsom, said White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki.
Florida governor Ron DeSantis has announced a $5,000 signing bonus for police officers in Florida, in an attempt to attract out-of-state recruits to the area.

The Florida governor held a press conference on Tuesday at the Lakeland Police Department announcing the incentives he plans to present in the next legislative session, according to WFLA .

The main components of the programme include the signing bonus, making it easier for out-of-state officers to move to Florida, a scholarship programme for recruits to attend a law enforcement academy, and making the state police certification exam free for officers who are relocating.

Signing bonuses have become commonplace for many businesses amid labour shortages during the coronavirus pandemic.

Gov DeSantis and his supporters believe there is a lack of support for law enforcement in the United States, and he hopes that his plan will attract officers to move to Florida, according to WFLA. The move is likely to resonate among those who feel the police have been undermined and demonised amid calls to defund law enforcement.

The announcement also comes amid mounting speculation that Mr DeSantis is eyeing a potential 2024 presidential run. Conservatives have rallied around police forces across the US, and former President Donald Trump made law and order a hallmark of his political messaging. Mr DeSantis approval rating has taken a dive recently as his state struggles amid a surge of COVID-19 cases . However, Mr DeSantis dismissed 2024 chatter as nonsense .

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody commented on Gov DeSantis announcement, declaring that Florida is the most pro-law enforcement state in the country, according to Axios. Ms Moody also has said that any efforts to cut funding for the police are idiotic and negligent.
Former Trump White House press secretary Sean Spicer has reacted to Jen Psakis dismissal of his military service record, stating dont you dare ever minimise or question my service to this nation.

Ms Psaki mentioned Mr Spicer specifically during her press briefing earlier on Wednesday, following the news that the White House had asked for all the Trump-appointed advisers to resign from various military academy advisory boards, including those for the United States Naval Academy and Air Force Academy.

The presidents objective is what any presidents objective is to ensure you have nominees and people serving on these boards who are qualified to serve on them and who are aligned with your values  I will let others evaluate whether they think Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer and others were qualified or not political to serve on these boards, Ms Psaki said.

Mr Spicer hit back on his Newsmax show on Wednesday evening, stating that he would be not be submitting my resignation ... and I will be joining a lawsuit to fight this.

The White House sent out an official government letter which read: Please submit your resignation to me by the close of business today. Should we not receive your resignation, your position with the Board will be terminated effective 6pm tonight. Thank you.

Trumps former press secretary is a US navy reserve commander and spent 22 years serving alongside some of the most talented, patriotic, and brave individuals this country has to offer. Im a proud graduate of the US Naval War College, he said on air.

Ive served under five different presidents of both parties. When you wear the uniform, you serve the commander-in-chief. We take an oath as officers to the Constitution, not to a party. Each of us chooses how were going to serve this country. I wont ever question how anyone chooses to do that. I wont question how you choose to do that, Jen. But dont you dare ever minimise or question my service to this nation. You got it?
The former chief of staff to Melania Trump is to expose surprising scandals in a new memoir about her time in the White House.

Stephanie Grisham also held the post of Press Secretary and Communications Director for a spell, making her the only person who served under both Donald and Mrs Trump, and one of the few who had access to their private residence.

There isnt enough water on earth to contain the fire she could set to all of Trump world, including parts like the first ladys orbit, which not many people are in a position to illuminate, a former West Wing colleague told Axios. Its hard to articulate how much anxiety this is going to cause.

The colleague continued: When I heard this, all I could think about was Stephanie surrounded by a lake of gasoline, striking a match with a grin on her face.

A source with knowledge of the publication told Axios that Grisham has receipts from her time in the White House because her job as press secretary kept her the loop about all the goings-on in the White House.

Grisham knows where all the bodies are buried because she buried a lot of them herself, the source added.

Ms Grisham was the third of four people to hold the job of press secretary under Mr Trump, and was criticised for holding no press room briefings during the eight months she spent in the role.

Ill Take Your Questions Now: What I Saw in The Trump White House is to be published on October 5 by Harper Collins, and is the latest in a string of tell-all memoirs to be published by former White House staffers, including last years Melania and Me by Mrs Trumps former friend and senior adviser Stephanie Winston Wolkoff.
Susana Duenas could hardly believe the news: Mexicos Supreme Court had decided that abortion could not be considered a crime. The 38-year-old woman from central Mexico had spent six and a half years in prison on just that charge.

The court ruled unanimously Tuesday that parts of a law in the northern border state of Coahuila criminalizing abortion were unconstitutional. The decision immediately compels judges across the nation to consider cases with that ruling in mind. And there are thousands of open cases in Mexico against women accused of illegal abortions.

Duenas comes from the conservative state of Guanajuato, one of the 28 states that still outlaws abortion with some limited exceptions.

It was moving to think that there arent going to be (more) women like us  people jailed for abortions  Duenas said. She was one of nine Guanajuato women released from prison in September 2010, not because the state declared them innocent, but because their sentences were reduced with help from an activist organization.

Duenas was 19 in 2004, when she said she felt like something had detached inside her, went to the bathroom and then went to the hospital. She said she had miscarried, but hospital workers accused her of trying to terminate her pregnancy and called police.

Two detectives stood at the foot of her bed until she was released into their custody. She was later convicted of homicide by a judge and sentenced to 20 years. Cellmates bullied her in prison because of the charge, she said.

Tuesdays decision will not immediately result in legal abortion being available across Mexico, experts say. The Roman Catholic Church remains a powerful factor, especially in more conservative states.

Only four Mexican states  Mexico City Oaxaca Veracruz and Hidalgo  now allow abortion in most circumstances.

On Wednesday, Mexican bishops said that the Supreme Courts decision displayed a dangerous and disproportionate contrast between the defense of womens rights and the rights of the unborn. Anti-abortion organizations demonstrated in downtown Mexico City, projecting images of fetuses on the walls of the Supreme Court building and the sound of a heartbeat.

Veronica Cruz, director of The Free, a nongovernmental organization that fought to free Duenas and the other women, estimated that it could take another five years to change criminal codes state by state.

There are currently no women imprisoned in Mexico for abortion, but there are approximately 4,600 open cases across the country, Cruz said.

Supreme Court President Arturo Zaldivar said Wednesday that public attorneys would be made available to defend those women. Cruz said the most useful step would be simply closing the cases.

The journey to this moment began nearly a century ago, in the 1930s, when there were proposals to have the state regulate abortion, wrote anthropologist and feminist Marta Lamas in a 2009 piece in Nueva Sociedad magazine. Another big push to decriminalize abortion in Mexico followed in the 1970s.

But it was not until 2007 that Mexico City became the first jurisdiction in Mexico to make abortion legal. By that time, Duenas had already been in prison for three years, more than 200 miles from the capital.

Critics of the capital's move to legalize abortion filed challenges, but the Supreme Court  then more conservative than the current one  ruled that it was constitutional.

Constitutional reforms promising greater human rights followed, as well as training for lawyers and judges more oriented toward human rights and gender issues as the problem of femicides drew condemnation from international human rights agencies.

Tuesdays decision resulted from a case filed in 2017 by then federal Attorney General Raul Cervantes challenging the Coahuila law as unconstitutional.

How great that now after so many years of fighting, of sharing our experiences, its been achieved, Duenas said from her home in Santa Teresa, Guanajuato, where for years she was shunned by conservative neighbors. Women and their rights must be respected.

The circumstances of Duenas release still bother her, because she was never cleared of the criminal charge. Back then, her priority was winning her release as soon as possible, so her lawyers pursued the sentence reduction rather than appealing the conviction.

Now she wants to have her name cleared. I would like them to say they made a mistake, she said.

__

AP writer Christopher Sherman contributed to this report.
Robert E Lee was a genius who could have led America to victory in Afghanistan, Donald Trump has said, decrying the decision by Virginia to remove the magnificent statue of the Confederate general.

Just watched as a massive crane took down the magnificent and very famous statue of Robert E Lee On His Horse in Richmond, Virginia. It has long been recognised as a beautiful piece of bronze sculpture, said a lengthy statement issued by Mr Trump on Wednesday.

To add insult to injury, those who support this taking now plan to cut it into three pieces, and throw this work of art into storage prior to its complete desecration, he added.

The removal of Lees statue from Richmond, Virginia, marked a watershed moment in the latest push to remove the statues of slaveholders and Confederate figures from public view, following a summer of racial justice protests in 2020 and a wave of statue removals across the US.

The capital citys streets, best known for its icons of white power, no longer feature any.

The statue of general Robert E Lee, the largest confederate statue remaining in the US, was removed by a construction team in Richmond, Virginia, US on 8 September 2021 (Reuters)

Mr Trump in his statement, however, dubbed Lee as the greatest strategist of them all.

President Lincoln wanted him to command the North, in which case the war would have been over in one day. Robert E Lee instead chose the other side because of his great love of Virginia, and except for Gettysburg, would have won the war, he said.

He should be remembered as perhaps the greatest unifying force after the war was over, ardent in his resolve to bring the North and South together through many means of reconciliation and imploring his soldiers to do their duty in becoming good citizens of this country.

The former president also added: Our culture is being destroyed and our history and heritage, both good and bad, are being extinguished by the Radical Left, and we cant let that happen!

Virginias governor Ralph Northam had announced plans to remove the statue, which was the largest, still-standing Confederate statue in the country, on 4 June 2020.

The states Supreme Court sided with the decision after it was challenged in court, paving the way for construction crews in cherry-pickers to lift the statue from its pedestal.

Mr Northam, who was among the crowd of people watching the statue come down, welcomed the move and said the public monuments reflect the story we choose to tell about who we are as a people.

It is time to display history as history, and use the public memorials to honour the full and inclusive truth of who we are today and in the future, he said.

In his statement, Mr Trump also pivoted to the USs disastrous exist from Afghanistan and claimed that if Lee held command, the Afghan war would have ended sooner and differently.

If only we had Robert E Lee to command our troops in Afghanistan, that disaster would have ended in a complete and total victory many years ago. What an embarrassment we are suffering because we dont have the genius of a Robert E Lee!

This is not the first time that Mr Trump has lavished praises on Lee, who was known to have kept Black people as slaves, according to many historians, including John Reeves who wrote a book on him.

Earlier in 2019, Mr Trump, who was the president at the time, had called Lee, a great general.

Whether you like it or not, he was one of the great generals. I have spoken to many generals here, right at the White House, and many people thought  of the generals, they think that he was maybe their favorite general, Mr Trump had said of the Confederate military leader.

He made these remarks while trying to defend a statement he made in 2017 terming white nationalist violence in Charlottesville as people that were very fine people on both sides.

Earlier this summer, another Lee statue in Charlottesville, the centre of the infamous 2017 Unite the Rightwhite supremacist and neo-Nazi rally, was also removed.
Donald Trumps former press secretary Sean Spicer and senior adviser Kellyanne Conway are among 11 ex-White House officials told to resign from military service academy advisory boards or be terminated.

Current White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed the request had been made, maintaining that the move was about qualifications and not politics.

Mr Spicer and Ms Conway were appointed to the advisory boards of the Naval Academy and Air Force Academy. Other Trump-era appointees to receive the notice included former national security adviser HR McMaster, on the board of West Point, and former director of the Office of Management and Budget, Russell Vought, according to CNN, which was the first to report the request.

Mr Vought tweeted the letter sent on Wednesday, adding: No. Its a three-year term.

Ms Conway also refused to voluntarily step away from the post, saying it was a break from presidential norms that was petty and political, if not personal.

Your decision is disappointing but understandable given the need to distract from a news cycle that has you mired in multiple self-inflicted crises and plummeting poll numbers, Ms Conway said.

President Biden, Im not resigning, but you should, she added in a tweet.

Mr Spicer said on his Newsmax show, Spicer & Co, that he would not resign and would join a lawsuit to fight the termination.

These bodies have been free from politics and worked in a bi-partisan way until today, this administration made them political, Mr Spicer said.

Not one Obama appointee on these boards was removed when Trump came in. Not a single one. This move has taken partisanship to a new level.

Other appointees asked to resign include Michael Wynne, Air Force Academy, retired General John Keane, Meaghan Mobbs, and David Urban on the board of West Point, and John Coale on the Naval Academy board.

Ms Psaki told reporters on Wednesday that the presidents objective was to ensure people serving on the boards were qualified aligned with his values.

"I will let others evaluate whether they think Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer and others were qualified, or not political, to serve on these boards, Ms Psaki said.

But the Presidents qualification requirements are not your party registration, they are whether youre qualified to serve and whether youre aligned with the values of this administration."
Donald Trump returned to Fox News on Wednesday night to spew out a few familiar false claims.

Mr Trump had the fact-checkers working late as he joined Greg Gutfields 11pm show Gutfield! on Wednesday to attack President Joe Bidens handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal.

The former commander-in-chief claimed he would have brought US forces out slowly over a period of years, overlooking the fact that he had imposed a deadline of 1 May to withdraw all US forces from the country.

In the chaotic final days of his presidency, he even tried to bring out the troops before Joe Bidens inauguration in an off-the-books mission, according to Axios .

Ignoring those details, Mr Trump told the Fox host: We could have taken a year, two years, but to leave $85bn worth of equipment, for them to fly around in Apache helicopters, this is the greatest war machine outside of the submarine, this is the greatest war machine there is.

"We can't have guns, but the Taliban they can have 27 each." - President Trump pic.twitter.com/r3SQqEr6W9  Liz Harrington (@realLizUSA) September 9, 2021

Mr Trump has made reference to leaving $85bn in Afghanistan in several recent interviews, leading the Washington Post to pen a comprehensive debunking of the claim.

It reported that while Mr Trump had rounded up the figure it was not invented out of whole cloth.

But it reflects all the money spent to train, equip and house the Afghan military and police  so weapons are just a part of that. At this point, no one really knows the value of the equipment that was seized by the Taliban.

Donald Trump appeared on Greg Gutfields late night comedy show, part of a wave of recent media appearances (Fox News)

After Mr Trumps comments, Mr Gutfield joked that while the Taliban have Apache helicopters, he cant even get a gun in New York.

If Id joined the Taliban I could have had a helicopter.

Mr Trump agreed: "We cant have guns, but the Taliban, they can have 27 each.

Mr Trump may have momentarily forgotten about the Second Amendment, which enshrines Americans rights to bear arms under the US Constitution.

Even in states with stricter gun ownership law such as New York, law-abiding citizens are not restricted from the right to buy, sell, keep or use guns.

The NY Safe Act does prevent criminals and the dangerously mentally ill from buying weapons, and only bans the most dangerous assault weapons.

Mr Trump aired a few more of his favourite lines, including that he rebuilt the military, wiped out the biggest people, a reference to the 2019 killing of ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, and was treated worse than any other President.

His aides have claimed that the 75-year-old is ramping up media appearances in preparation for another run at the presidency in 2024.

During the interview, Mr Gutfield also revealed that he had lost friends due to his support for Mr Trump.
Denmark has proposed making migrants work 37 hours a week in exchange for welfare benefits.

The proposal by the minority Social Democratic government said there are still too many people, especially with non-Western backgrounds, who do not have a job to get up to in the morning.

It claimed many women of foreign descent remained outside the labour market, especially those with roots in the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey.

If you come to Denmark, you have to work and support yourself and your family, the proposal stated.

If one cannot support oneself, one must have a duty to participate and contribute what is equivalent to a regular working week to receive the full welfare benefit.

The programme would start with those who had some Danish proficiency, and skills training would be undertaken by local government.

No date has yet been set for the 179-seat parliament to vote on the proposal. Although the Social Democrats do not have a majority, they would be likely to get support from centre-right politicians to pass it.

Mai Villadsen, a member of the opposition Red-Green Alliance, called the idea foolish.

She argued it could lead to a downward pressure on the wages of other workers.

The foundation of our welfare society is a strong safety net, Ms Villadsen wrote on Twitter.

Mirka Mozer, head of a Copenhagen-based organisation that helps immigrant women get jobs, said the plan did not sound ambitious enough.

World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 9 September 2021 Paramilitary and public security forces take part in a parade to celebrate the 73rd founding anniversary of North Korea at Kim Il Sung Square in Pyongyang KCNA via KNS/AFP/Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2021 A vendor pushes a cart of sugarcane juice past a fire at a demonstration in Bangkok as activists call for the resignation of Thailand's Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha over the government's handling of the Covid-19 crisis AFP/Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2021 People take part in a religious procession on the occasion of the 417th anniversary of the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib, at the Gurudwara Ramsar in Amritsar AFP/Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2021 A dog sits on the doorway as a shopkeeper clears muddy water from his shop after heavy rainfall flooded the banks of Bishnumati river in Kathmandu, Nepal AP World news in pictures 5 September 2021 apan athletes wave as Thank you' in Japanese is displayed in the stadium during the closing ceremony of 2020 Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony Reuters World news in pictures 4 September 2021 People demonstrate at the Zurich Pride parade with the slogan 'Dare. 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via Getty World news in pictures 6 August 2021 Members of local NPO release paper lanterns on Motoyasu River in front of beside the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall, as it was known before 1945, and now called the Atomic Bomb Dome, as the city marks the 76th anniversary of the world's first atomic bomb attack AFP/Getty World news in pictures 5 August 2021 The Men's Decathletes pose for a photo following their competition on day thirteen of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, Japan Getty World news in pictures 4 August 2021 Maronite clergymen pray near damaged grain silos at the port of Lebanons capital on the first anniversary of the blast that ravaged the port and the city AFP/Getty World news in pictures 3 August 2021 An underwater view shows Frances Charlotte and Laura Tremble during the womens duet technical routine artistic swimming event at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games AFP/Getty World news in pictures 2 August 2021 Germany compete in the 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We have lots of women who are willing to take jobs, including jobs that are 37 hours (per week), but there needs to be more 37-hour jobs, Ms Mozer said.

In 2018, her group, the Immigrant Womens Centre, had registered almost 13,000 people from 57 different nations.

Ms Mozer said it had contacts with dozens of companies that offered jobs to immigrant women, but that most were only four-to-10 hours per week.

Some certainly fear that their (welfare) benefits will be reduced because they cant get a 37-hour job, she said.

Immigrants and their descendants represent 14.1 per cent of Denmarks nearly six million people.

The largest groups are from Turkey, Syria and Iraq.

Additional reporting by Associated Press
All women aged 25 and younger in France will be able to access free birth control as of January 1 2022.

The measure, announced on Thursday by Frances health minister Olivier Veran, will also include free medical visits about contraception.

It will cover the pill, IUD devices and contraceptive implants and is expected to cost Frances health system, the Assurance Maladie, about 21m a year.

Frances healthcare system only covers some birth control costs. Currently, Frances healthcare system only offers free birth control to women aged 18 and under.

The number of abortions among 15-18 year-olds in the country fell from 9.5 per 1,000 girls between 2012 and 2018 to 6 per 1,000.

People aged 25 in France are no longer covered by their parents complementary health insurance, explaining the cut-off age.

Mr Veran said: There is a decline in the use of contraception among a certain number of young women and the main reason for this is financial. It costs too much. It is unacceptable that women cannot protect themselves, cannot have contraception if thats their choice obviously, because they cannot afford it.

He didnt address contraception methods for men.

This year it was announced that, in the UK, the contraceptive pill would be made available over the counter to buy without a subscription.

Two brands of progesterone only pills  Hana and Lovima  are now accessible without the need to visit a GP for most people.

Pills with oestrogen still require a consultation.

Sexual health campaigners and doctors have welcomed the move with GP services overburdened during Covid-19 and public health budgets slashed.

At the time, Dr June Raine, head of the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, said: This is good news for women and families.

We have consulted a wide range of people to enable us to reach the decision to make this contraceptive available for the first time in the UK without prescription. We received many responses to our consultation, the majority of which supported this approach.

Additional reporting by AP
French media has highlighted rising tensions between France and the UK as it reported on Priti Patels new plan to push migrant boats back across the Channel.

Both countries have become embroiled in a war of words over efforts to tackle migrants crossing the Channel by boat.

France has strongly rejected the latest tactic reportedly sanctioned by Ms Patel, which would redirect migrant boats in the Channel back to France, according to Le Monde.

The leading national newspaper called migrant crossings a subject that sours relations between Paris and London and said the French interior minister, Gerald Darmanin, had upped the ante with a tweet on the matter on Thursday.

France wont accept any practice against maritime law, nor any financial blackmail, Mr Darmanin wrote, adding that the friendship between France and UK deserves better than stances that hurt co-operation between our departments.

Ms Patel told her French counterpart this week the British public expect to see results from French efforts to prevent ongoing migrant crossings.

She is also to have told MPs she is prepared to withhold millions of pounds of cash promised to France to help step up patrols unless an improvement in the number of migrants intercepted by French authorities is seen

Le Figaro, another major, right-leaning French newspaper, said the UK has accused France of not sufficiently preventing migrant crossings for years.

London wants to put the breaks on illegal immigration. Gerald Darmanin warns of a practice against maritime law, the newspaper said in a report on the UKs plans to push boats back across the Channel.

Tensions between France and the UK rise while Channel crossings increase, France Info, a radio network, reported.

In a round-up on European news, the outlet said the UK was infuriated by the number of migrants coming from France.

Sud-Ouest, a regional newspaper, said things were heating up between London and Paris, following the French response to Ms Patels plans to push back boats.

Meanwhile Le Parisien reported that the UK wanted to make French authorities responsible for migrants in the Channel, wherever they are found.

According to reports, Ms Patel has ordered officials to rewrite maritime laws to allow Border Force to turn boats around, forcing them to be dealt with by French authorities.

Several newspapers reported that members of Border Force are being given special training to handle migrant boats, but would only deploy the pushback tactics when deemed practical and safe to do so.

Reports suggested such operations were likely to be restricted to sturdier, bigger migrant boats and only used in very limited circumstances.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We do not routinely comment on maritime operational activity.
More than 120 migrants have been rescued from an uninhabited Italian island after at least one of the two boats they were travelling on was damaged and the group became stranded.

The Italian coast guard said the migrants were found after reports of a group huddling on the rocky shore of Isola dei Conigli, or Rabbit Island, near Lampedusa in the countrys south.

Officials added the 125 migrants, including 49 women and 20 children, were in an evident state of shock when they were rescued. They are thought to have crossed the Mediterranean from the coast of Libya.

The rocky islet on which they were spotted is close to one of Lampedusas most popular beaches.

One of the two boats that the migrants had travelled on was found partially sunk, the coast guard said.

The rescue operation, which took place at around dawn on Thursday, was complicated by rough seas and jagged reefs, officials said.

Special coast guard rescue swimmers had to jump into the sea near where the migrants were gathered to bring them an inflatable yellow raft. The same swimmers were also involved in the operation to rescue people from the water.

A diver then guided the raft to a pair of motorboats as the vessels crew members worked to instruct the migrants to climb aboard the raft in groups of three.

The migrants were spotted after reports of a big group huddling at the base of a cliff (AP)

The rescue was particularly complex because of the choppy sea and because of the presence of rocks, the coast guard said in a statement.

It added that all the migrants were in good health.

Eventually all 125 were hoisted safely aboard the rescue vessels, given protective wraps and transported to Lampedusas port  about 2.5 miles to the east  which, because it is located closer to Tunisia than mainland Italy, has attracted tens of thousands of migrants and refugees in recent years.

So popular is the island for crossings that it has a special housing complex for migrants who reach the island after being intercepted by Italian officials.

Italy is known for its harsh asylum policy, with requests more often than not denied, unless someone can prove they are fleeing war and other conflict or persecution. Poverty is not considered a reason to grant settlement by the EU member.

Additional reporting by AP
A self-confessed Isis soldier was silenced in a Paris court during the trial of suspects alleged to have carried out the 2015 Bataclan terror attack.

Salah Abdeslam began shouting during Thursdays proceedings from behind a glass partition in the specially built court in the centre of the French capital, but then had his microphone switched off.

The victims from wars in Syria and Iraq  will they be able to speak? Abdeslam demanded.

Claiming that he had been judged guilty before the verdict, Abdeslam continued: In principle, we should be presumed innocent before being judged. He also told Jean-Louis Peries, the president of the court, that he did not endorse your justice.

Abdeslam said that three of those also accused  Mohammed Amri, Hamza Attou and Ali Oulkadi  were not aware of the plot to shoot and blow up innocent people in Paris.

They helped me, but they knew nothing at all, he said. They are in prison but did nothing.

In turn, Judge Peries said: Lets leave this discussion.

Abdeslam replied: Sir  dont be selfish. There are other people who want to hear me.

It was at this point that Judge Peries switched off Abdeslams microphone, meaning his ranting could not be heard in the vast courtroom. Judge Peries said: Youve had five years to comment.

As Abdeslam continued to try to disrupt the trial, other parties complained vigorously to the three presiding judges.

On Wednesday, as the session drew to a close, Abdeslam screamed at the panel of judges, saying: Ive been treated like a dog for more than six years, but I say nothing because I know that after death I will be resurrected!

Abdeslam has admitted discarding a belt containing explosives during the attacks, instead of using it to blow himself up.

He has appeared in the dock along with 13 other men who are alleged to have helped carry out the slaughter on 13 November, 2015, when 130 people were killed and hundreds injured in a series of coordinated attacks in the French capital. Abdeslam faces numerous charges, including participating in murders in an organised gang connected to a terrorist enterprise.

Aside from the 14 defendants in court, six others will be tried in absentia. Five of them are thought to have been killed while fighting for Isis in Syria and Iraq, while a sixth is in prison in Turkey.

The trial, which will last until at least May, continues.
The moderate Islamist party which has dominated Moroccos political scene for a decade lost badly in elections on Wednesday to a party led by one of the countrys wealthiest oligarchs.

Moroccos Justice Development Partys (PJD) share in the 395-seat parliament dropped 125 to 12 seats, while the rival National Rally of Independents, led by billionaire Aziz Akhannouch, more than doubled its share of seats to 95.

Another nationalist party, Authenticity and Modernity, came in second, with the PJD dropping to eighth place among the parties and its role in any future coalition government in doubt.

Moroccos parliament and cabinet play a subservient role to the monarchy of King Mohammad VI. He and his deputies, a set of institutions described by Moroccans as the makhzen, control the main levers of state power and the security forces.

The PJD was hobbled by voter dissatisfaction and economic troubles amid the coronavirus pandemic, new election rules that favoured smaller parties, and the absence of its charismatic former standard-bearer, Abdelilah Benkirane. He served as prime minister from 2011 to 2017 but was removed from his post by the king after failing to form a government.

The newspaper Hespress described the results for the PJD as a catastrophic scenario that even the worst pessimists didnt imagine.

The interior ministry estimated turnout at about 50 per cent, These results reflect the importance that the Moroccans place on these polls and the elected bodies resulting from them, interior minister Abdelouafi Latif said.

There is little prospect the vote will change much in Morocco, a north African nation of 37 million with strong commercial and security ties to western Europe, especially Spain and France.

All of the countrys main political parties remain vocally obsequious to a Moroccan monarchical dynasty that stretches back to the 17th century and is intertwined with the countrys Muslim religious beliefs.

Under Moroccos rules, the countrys king picks a prime minister from the leading party to form a government and can veto decisions by the parliament or the cabinet.

But Wednesdays vote suggests a shift of public opinion in Morocco and broader Arab world that only several years ago was seemingly entranced by the strain of populist Islam represented by the PJD since the 2011 Arab Spring.

The vote also carries geopolitical implications. The PJD is considered close to Turkey and Qatar and its defeat will be counted as a win by the United Arab Emirates, which has manoeuvred against such Islamist parties across north Africa and the Middle East.

In Tunisia, a populist president with the apparent blessing of Gulf autocracies in July dissolved a parliament headed by the moderate Islamist Nahda party. Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar continues to receive the backing of the UAE despite his military failures.

The UAE backed a 2013 military coup against Egypts first freely elected government, which was headed by an Islamist former leader of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Popular UAE-based pan-Arab news channels regularly deride Islamists in broadcasts. Gulf media celebrated the win by Mr Akhannouch, a businessman and current agriculture minister estimated by Forbes to be worth $1.7bn (1.23bn).
Donald Trump said Joe Biden embarrassed the US in front of the world as the White House continues to engage with wanted terrorists over Americans stranded in Afghanistan.

Amid speculation of a likely 2024 run, Mr Trump continued his campaign against Mr Biden to call Afghanistan the biggest embarrassment in US history.

That withdrawal was the most incompetently handled withdrawal, or anything else, in the history of our country. Were embarrassed in front of the world, he said in a Newsmax interview.

Giving them $850 billion of the best military equipment in the world, theres never been a greater embarrassment than weve suffered this last week.

Asked to respond to criticism the Afghanistan withdrawal was passed onto Mr Biden from his own administration, Mr Trump said the Taliban was not held accountable to his conditions-based deal.

Can you imagine getting the military out, before you get your citizens, American people out? Mr Trump said. They took the military out first. We would have taken it out last, he added.

An estimated 100 Americans have been waiting to leave Afghanistan on private rescue flights at Mazar-i-Sharif airport.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday they were being held by the Taliban due to a lack of required documentation among the hundreds of Afghans also trying to flee on the flights.

Mr Blinken said they were working through the issues, which Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid said was due to the temporary closure of the Interior and Foreign Affairs ministries.

Mr Mujahid expected the problems to be resolved by Wednesday after Afghanistans new cabinet was announced on Tuesday.

That cabinet includes four Guantanamo Bay prisoners released in a prisoner exchange during the Obama administration, as well as Sirajuddin Haqqani. The FBI is offering a $10m reward for Haqqani over a 2008 attack in Kabul that left six dead, including a US citizen.

Haqqani has been named the acting interior minister, overseeing one of the ministries processing the private charger flights sitting on the tarmac in Afghanistan.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki defended the administrations working with the former inmates, saying she doesnt think this is about fault here.

This is a caretaker cabinet that does include four former imprisoned Taliban fighters, Ms Psaki said.

What were working to do is to engage with them because they oversee and control Afghanistan right now to get American citizens, legal permanent residents, SIV [special immigrant visa] applicants out of Afghanistan.
Fire alarms have sounded on the International Space Station, with the crew reporting that they could see smoke and smell burning.

The problems began early on Thursday and appears to have been overcome for now, with the team returning to rest.

It is just the latest problem for the floating laboratory, which is widely considered to be nearing the end of its lifespan. Officials have said that cracks have been found in the body of the space station, and it is suffering an increasing number of issues.

Russias space agency Roscosmos said the incident took place in the Russian-built Zvezda module and occurred as the stations batteries were being recharged.

According to Roscosmos, the crew activated air filters and returned back to their night rest once the air quality was back to normal.

The crew will proceed with a space walk scheduled for Thursday as planned, the agency noted.

The space station is currently operated by NASA astronauts Mark Vande Hei, Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur; Oleg Novitsky and Pyotr Dubrov of Russias Roscosmos; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Pesquet.

Novitsky and Dubrov are scheduled to carry out a six-hour-long space walk on Thursday to continue integrating the Russian-built Nauka science lab that docked with the space station in July.

Shortly after docking, the lab briefly knocked the orbital outpost out of position by accidentally firing its engines  an incident Russian space officials blamed on a software failure.

Additional reporting by Associated Press
The traffic light system that governs international travel to the UK could be scrapped next month, according to reports. Travel industry figures are also calling for the onerous and expensive testing regime to be eased.

The UK is in the odd and counter-intuitive position of having both the highest Covid infection rates of any major European country and also the most draconian restrictions on arrivals from abroad. It means vaccinated British travellers to Germany need neither tests nor quarantine, but German visitors to the UK must take multiple tests.

So what could change? These are the key questions and answers.

A reminder of the present rules...

Nations (or sometime individual regions) are placed into one of five categories that decide how travellers are treated on arrival to the UK.

Ireland has been in a super green category of its own since the coronavirus pandemic began, with neither testing nor quarantine required for arrivals from the republic.

From the green list  including Canada, Denmark, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore and a scattering of remote British Overseas Territories  there is no need to self-isolate, but a test before flying to the UK and another after arrival are still required.

Croatia, Israel, Taiwan and a number of islands including Antigua, Barbados and Madeira are on the green watchlist. They enjoy quarantine-free status but with the caveat that they could be downgraded at short notice to the 

Amber list  with the vast majority of popular holiday destinations, including Spain, France, Italy and Greece.

The red list is where no one wants to be  arrivals must go into 11 nights of hotel quarantine at their expense. Unwilling members include Turkey, Egypt, South Africa and every country in South America.

Whats expected to change?

This week  probably on Wednesday or Thursday, 15 or 16 September  another routine traffic light review is expected. The shuffling around could include Poland and Hungary being placed on the green list, and perhaps the Maldives and Turkey taken off the red list and moved to amber.

But there is a separate and strategic review ahead: a checkpoint date of 1 October when the government has long said it will evaluate the system.

Leaks to the media suggest that from October, the red list will continue but green and amber categories would be combined into one safe for travel list, with the 62-strong red list of countries significantly reduced in the process.

Some rumours suggest that the requirement for a PCR test on arrival in the UK for fully vaccinated travellers could be dropped, saving money and hassle. But the health minister, Lord Bethell, recently indicated that post-arrival testing was a long-term plan.

The Telegraph has suggested that, under the new system, double-jabbed travellers will be able to take cheaper lateral flow tests instead of PCR tests before and after travel back to the UK, though no source was revealed.

What difference would combining green and amber make?

Very little. For vaccinated travellers that would make no difference at all, since both categories require two tests but no quarantine.

For the relatively small minority of unvaccinated adults, there could be a more significant change  perhaps removing self-isolation but retaining testing.

What does the travel industry think about the rumours?

Airlines, holiday companies and travel agents are underwhelmed. The leaks suggest merely tinkering with the travel restrictions, rather than aligning the rules more closely with other countries  which seek to balance the protection of public health with supporting their travel and tourism industries.

Some senior figures are calling for the pre-departure test to be scrapped for vaccinated arrivals from lower risk locations. They say that concern about testing positive for Covid abroad is a key concern among prospective travellers.

What do you think should be done?

To avoid further destruction of the UKs previously world-leading travel industry  and to revive the near-moribund inbound tourism sector  fundamental changes are needed to end the complex, expensive, incoherent and constantly changing rules.

Testing needs to be eased  ideally with most European countries moved to super green, alongside Ireland. In other words, no testing or quarantine for arrivals, at least for vaccinated travellers.

At the very least, for vaccinated travellers from lower-risk countries (which includes almost all our holiday favourites), the day two PCR test  which must be taken on the day of arrival or one of the two following days  should be scrapped.

The 60-plus countries on the red list, requiring mandatory hotel quarantine, should shrink to a relatively small number of nations with very high infection rates, unreliable data and/or fears about variants.

Every day that the current system persists means jobs, hopes and opportunities are being crushed.
As UK travellers wait to see what changes the government will make to the traffic light system, The Independents travel correspondent Simon Calder has made his predictions.

The UKs travel restrictions make us a laughing stock abroad  but they are also crippling airlines and holiday firms.

Assuming the leaks are correct and the whole ludicrous system is to be dismantled, the industry will naturally be relieved  but will also demand to know why the government made going abroad so difficult for so long.

The current restrictions arent just making holidaymakers jumpy about booking  they are also destroying inbound tourism to the UK, and hundreds of thousands of jobs with it.

The red list is way too long. Travel to almost a third of the worlds countries requires thousands of pounds spent on 11 nights in a hotel room on arrival.

Expert analysts concur that Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Dominican Republic, the Maldives, South Africa and Turkey should be taken off the red list. But as the government has shown many times, it can deliver wildly different conclusions.

In other news, Qantas has scheduled flights between London and Sydney and London and Melbourne from 18 December.

Follow the latest travel news below:
My dad survived the terrorist attacks of 9/11 nearly twenty years ago, but we have squandered these decades of togetherness that I prayed for as I watched those buildings fall. Today I ask for forgiveness from those whose loved ones did not survive, and for having let politics and a pandemic steal a relationship that was nearly lost one Tuesday morning.

On September 11th, 2001, I was in my 9am History of the English Language class. My teacher was so intent on teaching us how to read in Middle English that he never mentioned what was happening to my dad while I was reading Beowulf. When I finally got out of class at 10am and entered the student center at my New Jersey college, I saw not what was unfolding, but what had already happened. Both towers had been hit and one of them had fallen.

I know now that my dad was in World Trade Center 1, but that morning I just knew my dad worked in the one with the antenna. I prayed that he somehow would be found within the rubble, having lived up to the Indiana Jones-like persona I grew up with, getting knocked down before winning the day.

Phone calls rang busy until I finally connected with my grandfather. Hed been given the news that my dads office was okay and staying put, as per emergency personnels instructions. After the towers collapsed, that news sat like a pit in my stomach. I drove home from college to await word, listening to Bushs speech on the radio.

Years later, my dad told me it was the dead bodies that kept him from following the orders he was given. Instead of staying put, he kept going, his flip phone left behind on his desk. He got out alive.

When the train pulled into the station that night, I hugged my dad, who was covered in white ash, thankful for the memories we would be able to have together. As we drove him, we silently looked around the commuters piling off the train, thinking on those who wouldnt be coming home that night or ever again.

Jennifer Barnhill and her father in her childhood years (Jennifer Barnhill)

I call my dad every year, reliving those moments as if they had just happened and trying to put aside the events of the 364 days between calls. And for nearly two decades, I had no desire to go to lower Manhattan to visit Ground Zero. I grew up on the Jersey shore, just a short distance from Manhattan, known to us as The City. The thought of visiting the gravesite of my friends fathers alongside tourists purchasing I heart New York shirts just felt wrong  something to make tourists feel good that they remembered that year and a Disneyfication of a terrible tragedy.

This July I had an opportunity to take my three children to New York City, an up-till-then mythical place their grandpa told stories about via FaceTime. I decided it was time to finally pay my respects at Ground Zero in person.

My dad still lives in that coastal town where I grew up in New Jersey, a two-hour commute he tolerated twice daily my entire childhood. When he agreed to meet us to walk beside the remembrance pools, I was mixed with emotion. I knew it would be hard for both of us, but also a once-in-a-lifetime chance for my kids to learn about the morning that changed the trajectory of our nation.

But on the morning of our visit, the rain started. Unlike the blue skies that marked that Tuesday in 2001, these clouds widened the division between us that we have let fester all these years. To my father, going to Ground Zero was already painful, but the rain made it inconvenient, and so he stayed home. To me, the rain was just one more missed opportunity, and I was the inconvenience. I braved the rain and went anyway.

The painful fact is that surviving a terrorist attack was not enough to magically repair the differences between my father and I. Since September 11th, our relationship has felt divided like our country. We have allowed our differences to drive us apart rather than be something to drive conversation.

It started slowly. I finished college and moved away. I married a Naval aviator whose job took me around the world, putting an ocean between my family and I. I have had friends lose spouses to war. Ive worked as a nonprofit leader. I became a mom and, later, a Democrat.

And one day in the middle of all that change, my father slipped from his pedestal. His brash New Jersey tell-it-like-it-is persona reminded me less and less of the funny dad I grew up with and more and more of the president I was ashamed had been elected. But I was not raised by Trump. I didnt feel compelled to excuse Trumps undercutting remarks aimed at women, minorities and even decorated war heroes, like John McCain, a Republican I voted for in the 2008 presidential election.

Dad and I stopped talking for a time. I could no longer take the jabs about living in the Peoples Republic of California, the lack of interest in getting to know my new life as a mom, and the general exhaustion of having a conversation with someone I no longer knew.

So my children and I went to Ground Zero without him. We walked around and brushed raindrops off of the names we quietly read out loud. We prayed and thanked God for giving us grandpa and prayed for the kids who lost their parents. There were no vendors, no tourist groups as I had feared; simply other small groups like ours, quietly observing the hallowed footprint of the Towers. I was heartbroken I couldnt hold my dads hand and remember together.

(Jennifer Barnhill)

I know that when I do have to say goodbye to my father, we will not remember who won the arguments or votes on contested primaries. We will remember how we treated each other. We will remember the memories we made, both good and bad.

Globally, not much has changed as we approach the 20th anniversary of September 11th. The war in Afghanistan may technically be over, but another September 11 is always around the corner. We cant control the terrorists  or our parents.

Today, I struggle to accept what my relationship with my father is, without beating myself up for what it could be.

When I call my dad on September 11, 2021, we will inevitably fight about something. We fundamentally disagree on so many things and we may never be close. But I will try to love him through it anyway. I owe it to those who 20 years ago lost the opportunity to fight over generational differences or politics with those they love.
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As the Lakelands and the country respond to the novel coronavirus pandemic, which has led to state and national emergency declarations, it is vital for everyone to have up-to-date information about the virus and its spread. As such, we're providing free access to all of our COVID-19 coverage, which is available on this page.

Here's the latest information on COVID-19 from health agencies and hospitals:
Noted UK-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia is working towards the promotion of education, safety, health of girls and stepping up their protection against abuse.

Ahluwalia recently committed an amount of Rs 1 Crore to Kailash Satyarthi Childrens Foundation (KSCF) on the eve of the International Literacy Day.

Sukhpal Singh Ahluwalia & Kailash Satyarthi

The contribution has been committed to bolster KCSFs ongoing Justice for Every Child Campaign for providing legal and mental health support to child victims of sexual abuse and rape, and their families. Launched in March this year, the campaign aims to provide support in 5,000 strategic cases in 100 Fast Track Courts in 100 districts across the country.

Ahluwalia recently met Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi at Mukti Ashram, a shelter home for children in need of care and protection.

Representational Image

Ahluwalia interacted with many girls at the shelter, who are being supported by KSCF under its various projects for child empowerment.

Among those he met with was Tara Banjara, the first girl from her Banjara Community in Alwar who passed Class 12 with flying colours. She now aims to become a police officer.



Lalita Duhariya, another girl from a backward community of Rajasthan, spoke about how she passed Class 12 with 96% marks and shared her dream of becoming a doctor.
Rajnath Singh Union Defence Minister and Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari Thursday attended the inauguration ceremony of the Emergency Landing Field on National Highway 925A near Barmer in Rajasthan.

The emergency landing strip at Gandhav Bhakasar Section of NH-925, is the first time that the National Highway will be used for emergency landing of IAF aircraft.

The NHAI had developed an Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) for the Indian Air Force, which is a part of the newly developed two-lane paved shoulder of Gagariya-Bakhasar and Satta-Gandhav Section having a total length of 196.97 Km costing Rs 765.52 crore under the Bharatmala Pariyojana. Take a look:
With floodwaters as a result of incessant monsoon showers plaguing parts of Bihar, school buildings too have not been able to escape clutches of the deluge and many such buildings have been half submerged under water, leading teachers and students no choice but to avoid them temporarily.

"No other option"

Along with the pandemic situation already causing a long standing problem in regular classes, now rains have joined in too. As such, schools in the Manihari area of Katihar district in Bihar being closed, a few godsend teachers have come together and started holding classes on boats.

A teacher, Pankaj Kumar spoke to news agency ANI, As you can see, the whole area is submerged. We started the initiative of taking classes as we have no other option. Floodwaters are there for six months. We can not skip classes. We will continue taking classes on boats till the water remains."

Bihar: Three youth in Katihar's Manihari area teach students on boat 'Naav ki Pathshala' amid flood in the area



"There is flood-like situation for 6 months here. We have no other option but to teach local students on the boat," says Pankaj Kumar Shah, a teacher pic.twitter.com/IIShbzAFxG  ANI (@ANI) September 6, 2021





Students are grateful

Students have all been very grateful for the initiative. A student, Amir Lal Kumar reportedly told the agency how the teachers have helped them to study for their Class 10 exams as the pandemic had halted their studies already. The teachers have guided us. So we are studying on the boat as there is a flood. We do not fear floodwater. After completing my studies, I want to join the Indian Army," he said.

BCCL

Flood situation in Bihar

According to weather sources, Manihari, being located along the banks of river Ganga, is subjected to heavy flooding every monsoon. In order to ensure students do not miss out on studies, Kumar along with two more of his counterparts Pankaj Kumar Sah and Kundan Kumar Sah reached the flood-affected area of Singhala tola of Manihari to teach such children where students from class 1 to 10 get free education.

PTI

Recently, images of a 15-year-old Uttar Pradesh girl went viral where she is seen rowing a boat to school. A class 11 student of Bahrampur area in Gorakhpur, Sandhya Sahani rows the boat to a point from where she reaches her school in a minivan.


Forney, TX (75126)

Today

Sunny to partly cloudy. High near 90F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 67F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Today

A mix of clouds and sun. High around 90F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Cloudy in the morning with isolated thunderstorms developing later in the day. High 82F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
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.
New Data Finds One in Every Four Northern Virginia Adults Know Someone Who Has Been Hospitalized for Alcohol or Drug Overdose
If you think Sonoran Restaurant Week is only about Mexican food, you may do a double take when you see dishes inspired by Moroccan, Jamaican, French, and Indonesian traditions on display during the annual event.
President Joe Biden declared climate change has become everybodys crisis as he toured neighborhoods flooded by the remnants of Hurricane Ida, warning its time for America to get serious about the code red danger or face ever worse loss of life and property.

Biden spoke after walking streets in New Jersey and then Queens in New York City, meeting people whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by flooding when Ida barreled through. The storm dumped record amounts of rain onto already saturated ground and was blamed for more than a dozen deaths in the city.

The president said he thinks the damage everyone is seeing, from wildfires in the West to hurricane havoc in the South and Northeast, is turning climate-change skeptics into believers, but years of unheeded warnings from scientists, economists and others mean time for action is short.

The threat is here. It is not getting any better, Biden said in New York. The question is can it get worse. We can stop it from getting worse.

Biden sounded a similar theme before he toured Manville, New Jersey, also ravaged by severe flooding caused by Ida.

Every part of the country, every part of the country is getting hit by extreme weather, Biden said during a briefing with officials in Somerset County, including Governor Phil Murphy.

He said the threat from wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding and other extreme weather must be dealt with in ways that will lessen devastating effects of climate change.

We cant turn it back very much, but we can prevent it from getting worse, he said. We dont have any more time.

The natural disasters have given Biden an opening to push Congress to approve his plan to spend $1 trillion to fortify infrastructure nationwide, including electrical grids, water and sewer systems, to better defend against extreme weather. The legislation has cleared the Senate and awaits a House vote.

Biden also talked up a side benefit of the plan, the good-paying jobs he said it will create.

The White House asked Congress for an additional $24 billion in disaster aid to cover the costs of Ida and other destructive weather events.

In New Jersey, Biden walked along a street in the Lost Valley neighborhood of Manville, where flooding is common and the cleanup continues after the Raritan River overflowed its banks. Many front lawns were covered with waterlogged couches, broken pianos, crumbled plaster and other debris.

One home displayed a hand-painted sign that said, Manville will be back better.

Biden, wearing a mask, spoke to adults and children, including Meagan Dommar, a new mother whose home was destroyed by fire as the flood occurred. She told him that she and her husband, Caesar, had left with the baby before the flooding, then returned to find destruction.

Thank God youre safe, Biden replied. She said afterward she hoped the visit would speed help along a little bit and said she was grateful for the visit.

Not everyone was so welcoming. As he walked the route, the Democratic president was taunted by supporters of Republican former President Donald Trump, who yelled that Biden was a tyrant and worse. Biden did not look in their direction.

At the briefing, Biden focused on the personal calamities, saying: The losses that we witnessed today are profound. My thoughts are with all those families affected by the storm and all those families who lost someone they love.

Before he arrived, Cristel Alvarez said she expected losses at her home to climb as high as $45,000. She has lived in Manville for a decade and the flood was her familys second.

Let him see everything that were going through and hopefully we can get the help that we need because theres a lot of loss, she said.

Lou DeFazio, a contractor and three-decade Manville resident, sat on his porch with a small Trump flag waving beside him and said the town needed better planning instead of presidential visits.

I think their efforts could be better spent in other areas, he said of Biden and other elected officials who were coming. I dont know what theyre gonna do for us.

In all, at least 50 people were killed in six Eastern states as record rainfall last week overwhelmed rivers and sewer systems. Some people were trapped in fast-filling basement apartments and cars, or were swept away as they tried to escape. The storm also spawned several tornadoes.

More than half of the deaths, 27, were recorded in New Jersey. In New York City, 13 people were killed, including 11 in Queens.

Bidens visit followed his Friday trip to Louisiana, where Hurricane Ida first made landfall on Aug. 29, killing at least 15 people in the state.

Manville, situated along New Jerseys Raritan River, is almost always hard-hit by major storms. It was the scene of catastrophic flooding in 1998 as the remnants of Tropical Storm Floyd swept over New Jersey. It also sustained serious flooding during the aftermath of Hurricane Irene in 2011 and Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

Biden has approved major disaster declarations, making federal aid available for people in six New Jersey counties and five New York counties affected by the devastating floods. He is open to applying the declaration to other storm-ravaged New Jersey counties, White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said.

Superville reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Michael Catalini in Manville, New Jersey, contributed to this report.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics New York
A Delaware state trooper has been suspended with pay amid a federal investigation into a series of thefts from a package reshipping company in New Castle.

According to an FBI affidavit unsealed late last week, Jamal J. Merrell, 31, is suspected of violating federal civil rights law by using his position as a law enforcement officer to deprive someone else of a right or privilege.

The affidavit was filed in support of an application for a search warrant allowing investigators to examine the contents of an iPhone taken from Merrell after investigators with the FBI and Delaware State Police interviewed him at his home on July 8. FBI agent Joshua Wilson stated in the affidavit that he and another FBI agent seized the phone fearing that Merrell would delete evidence from it after he refused to give his consent for authorities to search it.

Merrell is the second Delaware trooper identified within the past two weeks as the subject of a criminal investigation.

Authorities announced on Aug. 31 that Cpl. Edwin R. Ramirez, who has won recognition for his traffic enforcement efforts, was facing criminal charges alleging that he issued phony traffic warnings to motorists. Ramirez was indicted on felony charges of tampering with public records and issuing a false certificate. He also faces misdemeanor charges of falsifying business records and official misconduct.

The investigation of Merrell, who has not been charged, began after an official with the company and his attorney went to the FBI office in Wilmington to report suspicious incidents over a period of several months. According to the affidavit, the businessman lives in the country of Georgia but traveled to the U.S. after learning of the incidents.

The business is referred to in the affidavit as TTL and fits the description of Totaltranslogistics LLC, a company in New Castle that specializes in shipping packages to Georgia.

Employees reported that Merrell had visited the company at least 10 times beginning in February. He told employees during his first visit that he was conducting an investigation and that he would need to inspect packages at the warehouse. He also insisted that he be left alone when conducting the inspections, according to the affidavit.

Employees reported that Merrell could be seen on surveillance footage removing items from large containers, putting them in a cart, then moving the cart to an area outside video surveillance coverage and near an exterior door.

Merrell would return an empty cart at the conclusion of these inspections. Merrell was also observed retaping the larger shipping boxes from which he had removed items, Wilson wrote.

A company official reported that he had received more than $20,000 in claims from customers for items missing from shipments or never delivered.

During the July interview with investigators, Merrell said he began an investigation after receiving a complaint about missing merchandise that had been shipped in June 2020. He said he made regular visits to the company and collected numerous items that he deemed suspicious. He did not provide receipts from the items he seized and did not report the seizures to his superiors, according to the affidavit.

Instead, Merrell told investigators that he sometimes kept items in his patrol vehicle or would take them home out of concern of a theft from the vehicle.

After learning that he might be the subject of a complaint from the company, Merrell delivered several items to the DSPs Troop 2 facility in Newark, leaving them at the sally port instead of in the evidence locker. He also left an inventory of items that he had seized, including laptop computers, cellphones and other items in their original packaging, the affidavit states.

Asked by investigators whether he had sold any items he took, Merrell said he had been told by a company employee that a certain section of the warehouse had been designated for trash. Merrell told investigators that he had taken about 100 iPhones from that area and sold them on three separate occasions to a person advertising on Facebook as a purchaser of iPhones.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Fraud
Connecticuts InsureGood Hires Taylor as Vice President of Business Development

Hartford, Connecticut, insurance and risk management consulting firm InsureGood hired Carrie Taylor as vice president of business development, and she will join the firms leadership team.

In her new role, Taylor will focus on the companys growth initiatives and lead the development of the firms insurance practice, including the direct management of the insurance risk advisory team. In addition to overseeing the growth of the insurance division, Taylor will assist in the coordination and development of the firms female entrepreneurs program focused on creating agency ownership opportunities for women in the greater Hartford area.

Taylor brings more than 15 years of commercial insurance and risk management experience with an expertise in professional liability underwriting and extensive leadership experience in a variety of roles within insurance services firms. Prior to joining InsureGood, Taylor served as vice president of commercial insurance at SIG Agencies in Cheshire, Connecticut.

InsureGood LLC helps small and medium businesses and the people behind them lower costs and increase impact. It specializes in providing tailored, cost-effective, simplified insurance and risk management programs.

Source: InsureGood

Berkley Construction Professional Hires Baez as Senior VP of Underwriting

Dennis M. Baez joined Berkley Construction Professional, a division of Berkley Company Berkley Alliance Managers, as a senior vice president of underwriting.

In this role, he is responsible for underwriting primary and excess business within the retail and wholesale insurance communities, fostering strong broker relationships and achieving profitable growth for Berkley Construction Professionals contractors and owners professional liability portfolio.

Baez joins Berkley Construction Professional with more than 20 years of professional liability brokering experience. During that time, he worked with design firms, contractors, project owners and developers providing advisory and broking services for various practice and project professional liability programs.

Based in Berkley Construction Professionals Midtown New York City office, Baez is a licensed insurance agent in California and New York.

Berkley Construction Professional specializes in construction professional liability and pollution insurance for construction-related industry exposures.

Source: Berkley Construction Professional

Topics Construction
MELBOURNE  Australias biggest news publishers including Rupert Murdochs the Australian are responsible for comments that readers post on their corporate Facebook pages, the High Court ruled on Wednesday.

The court dismissed an appeal against a previous ruling that found in favor of a defamation suit by Dylan Voller, a young man who had been the subject of several news reports about youth detention.

This is a common-sense decision that accords with longstanding law on the issue of publication, Vollers lawyers, OBrien Criminal and Civil Solicitors, said in a statement after the ruling.

Voller had said that after stories referring to him were posted on the news companies Facebook pages, a number of third-party Facebook users made defamatory comments and he alleged that the news outlets were liable as the publishers.

Voller filed a suit against the publishers, including Fairfax Media, publisher of the Sydney Morning Herald newspaper, which is owned by broadcaster Nine, and others.

After a court found in favor of Voller, the media outlets lodged an appeal based on the argument that they administered a Facebook page on which third parties published their own material.

But the High Court dismissed the appeal and ordered the organizations to pay costs.

The acts of the (media companies) in facilitating, encouraging and thereby assisting the posting of comments by the third-party Facebook users rendered them publishers of those comments, Justice Rothman found.

At the time the comments were published, Facebook did not allow page moderators to turn off comments on posts, however it has changed that.

The case will now return to the New South Wales Supreme Court to determine if any of the comments defamed Voller.

A spokesperson for Nine said it was disappointed with the outcome  as it will have ramifications for what we can post on social media in the future.

Michael Miller, executive chairman of News Corp Australia told the Sydney Morning Herald the court decision was significant for anyone who maintains a public social media page.

They can be liable for comments posted by others on that page even when they are unaware of those comments, he said.

(Reporting by Melanie Burton Editing by Robert Birsel)

Topics Legislation Australia
TOKYO Experts from the International Atomic Energy Agency asked Japan on Tuesday for full and detailed information about a plan to release treated but still radioactive water from the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant into the ocean.

The three-member team, which is assisting Japan with the planned release, met Tuesday with government officials to discuss technical details before traveling to the Fukushima Daiichi plant for an on-site examination Wednesday. They will meet with Japanese experts through Friday.

Lydie Evrard, head of the IAEAs Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, said transparency and a full disclosure about the water and its treatment is key to ensuring safety for the project, which is expected to take decades.

The government and the plants operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, announced plans in April to start releasing the water in the spring of 2023 so hundreds of storage tanks at the plant can be removed to make room for other facilities needed for its decommissioning.

The idea has been fiercely opposed by fishermen, local residents and Japans neighbors, including China and South Korea.

TEPCO plans to send the water through an undersea tunnel and discharge it from a location about 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) away from the coastal power plant after further treating and diluting it with large amounts of seawater to bring it below releasable limits.

Evrard said her team wants to monitor the release to make sure it meets IAEA radiation and environmental safety standards, and proposed a discussion of monitoring methods and other details.

Government and TEPCO officials say tritium, which is not harmful in small amounts, cannot be removed from the water, but all other isotopes selected for treatment can be reduced to safe levels. Controlled release of tritium from normal nuclear plants is a routine global practice, officials say.

IAEA and Japanese officials on Tuesday discussed tritium monitoring methods.

Japan has requested IAEAs assistance to ensure the discharge meets safety standards and to gain the understanding of the international community.

Trade and industry minister Hiroshi Kajiyama told reporters Tuesday that IAEAs involvement will help build trust in the Japanese effort. He said Japan will fully cooperate.

A massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011 severely damaged three reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, causing contaminated cooling water to leak. The water has been stored in about 1,000 tanks which the plants operator says will reach their capacity late next year.

Japanese officials say disposal of the water is required for the decommissioning of the plant, and that its release into the ocean is the most realistic option.

Photo: In this Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, file photo, Nuclear reactors of No. 5, center left, and 6 look over tanks storing water that was treated but still radioactive, at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Okuma town, Fukushima prefecture, northeastern Japan. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae, file)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Global life and non-life insurance and reinsurance COVID-19 claims are approaching $50 billion, which has had a significant burden on reinsurers, according to Mike Van Slooten, head of Business Intelligence for Aon Reinsurance Solutions.

For example, the four major European reinsurers  Munich Re, Swiss Re, Hannover Re and SCOR  have had aggregate COVID losses of $13 billion, he said during a renewal season briefing held this week by Aon. Thats a very considerable burden, but I think it does clearly evidence  that reinsurance has a significant part to play as a stabilizing mechanism against systemic risk.

While the impact on reinsurers results from COVID has actually diminished significantly during 2021, Van Slooten noted that excess mortality continues to generate losses on the life side.

In addition, theres still material uncertainty around the ultimate extent and distribution of business interruption losses, and discussions around potential reinsurance recoveries, I think, will be a part of some renewals, he said.

During his discussion of what reinsurance buyers can expect during the upcoming January renewals, Van Slooten said, he had both good and bad news.

The good news is that reinsurers genuinely performed pretty well in the first half of 2021, and capital has continued to build from what was already a pretty strong position.

For example, the 22 reinsurers that comprise Aons Reinsurance Aggregate (ARA) showed a much improved combined ratio of 93.9% for the first half of 2021, while global reinsurer capital rose $10 billion to $660 billion during the same period. (Combined ratios below 100% indicate underwriting profits).

During the first half, natural catastrophe claims  mostly from the Texas winter storms  added 5.1% to the overall combined ratio, he said, noting that global insured losses during the first half of 2021 were slightly above the 10-year average.

But overall, however, the first half showed a fairly strong performance for reinsurers. Most reinsurers that we track posted strong growth in gross written premiums in the first half of the year, mainly reflecting the impact of renewal rate increases as the year has progressed, he said. In addition, reinsurance demand has generally held up pretty well.

Further, he said, the full benefit of past rate increases is beginning to earn through the results, really for the first time.

I think that impact [of rate hikes] was masked last year by the impact of the pandemic, Van Slooten said.

But then he turned to the bad news for reinsurance buyers  the high level of natural catastrophe loss activity that has occurred early in the second half, which is already threatening to derail full-year earnings.

Only halfway through the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season, which is expected to be active, there have already been five hurricanes and 12 named storms, Van Slooten said during Aons Sept. 7 briefing for clients and journalists.

Over the last two months, the two events of note are the European floods in mid-July and Hurricane Ida at the end of August, which together can be expected to cost conservatively at least $30 billion, he said. Data show that were already close to the 10-year annual average with four months of the year left to run.

He said the phrase plentiful capacity, disciplined deployment is a good description of what reinsurance buyers can expect during the Jan. 1 renewals.

Theres no doubt the impact of climate change and the recalibration of secondary perils is going to remain a hot topic in the lead up to the renewals, Van Slooten said. Further attempts to tighten contract language can be expected amid concerns around systemic risk.

This article first appeared in Insurance Journals sister publication, Carrier Management.

Topics COVID-19 Claims Reinsurance
Federal employment officials say a Minnesota debt collector has settled a lawsuit alleging the company fired Christian employee after he refused to be fingerprinted due to his religious beliefs.

AscensionPoint Recovery Services LLC (APRS), a Minnesota-based estate and probate debt recovery company, will pay $65,000 to resolve the religious discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

According to the EEOCs suit, APRS fired a Christian employee rather than accommodating his request to be exempted from a fingerprinting requirement due to his religious beliefs. The fingerprinting requirement was prompted by a background check procedure requested by of one of the companys clients.

Shortly after the Christian employee informed APRS that having his fingerprints captured was contrary to his religious practices, APRS fired him. APRS did so without asking the client whether an exemption was available as a religious accommodation, and despite the fact that alternatives to fingerprinting were available.

This alleged conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on religion and requires employers to reasonably accommodate an applicants or employees religious practice unless it would pose an undue hardship. The EEOC filed its lawsuit (Civil Action No. 0:21-cv-01428) in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, after attempting to resolve the case through its conciliation process.

Besides the monetary relief, the three-year consent decree settling the suit, entered by U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud, requires that APRS revise its policies regarding religious discrimination, in particular to provide that the company will attempt to work with clients and third parties when necessary to explore potential religious accommodations.

Under the decree, APRS will also provide training on Title VII to its employees and make regular reports to the EEOC regarding its compliance with the decree.

Source: EEOC

Topics Lawsuits Minnesota
Whenever a legal dispute arises as to insurance coverage, the court will evaluate policy language to determine if a specific cause of loss constitutes a covered event under the terms of that policy.

When workers compensation and workplace violence intersect, it must generally be shown that the loss occurred in the scope of employment and while the employee was working.

Some claims, however, involve gray areas raising questions as to whether coverage is invoked. This is particularly true in scenarios where the injured worker played a role in inciting, participating in or provoking the violence.

No cookie-cutter approach should be utilized in the investigation and adjustment of these losses, as they oftentimes involve complex fact patterns.

A thorough analysis should be conducted when workplace violence claims are reported so as to mitigate the risk of dreaded statutory or common law bad faith actions, amongst other concerns.

Workplace Violence, Defined

There is plenty of room for plaintiffs counsel to assert a rejected occupational violence-related workers compensation claim was wrongfully denied by the insurer.

Workplace violence manifests in a broad range of activities beyond the deadly highly publicized active shooter episodes some automatically think of while considering this topic. Unwanted physical contact is not necessary to make a showing that workplace violence has occurred.

For instance, the National Institute of Safety and Health (NIOSH), an agency of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, states that:

Workplace violence ranges from offensive or threatening language to homicide. NIOSH defines workplace violence as violent acts (including physical assaults and threats of assaults) directed toward persons at work or on duty.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) an agency of the United States Department of Labor:

Workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the work site. It ranges from threats and verbal abuse to physical assaults and even homicidehowever it manifests itself, workplace violence is a growing concern for employers and employees nationwide.

Workplace Violence Claims: Coveredor Not?

Determinations surrounding whether workers compensation provides indemnification for workplace violence is similar to inquiries involving any other type of insurance coverage.

As always, the analysis begins with the language of the operative insurance contract, bearing in mind that per well-settled principles of insurance law, disagreements over ambiguities in the policy will typically be rendered in favor of coverage.

Language in a stand-alone workers compensation policy or an Employment Practices Liability (EPL) policy affording workers compensation indemnity might read something like this:

PART ONE  WORKERS COMPENSATION INSURANCE

This coverage applies to any occupational loss occurring during the policy period set forth in the Declarations Page for: Bodily injury by accident occurring during the policy period. Bodily injury by disease must be caused or aggravated by the conditions of your employment occurring during the policy period.

This insurance does not cover:

Bodily injury intentionally caused or aggravated by you. Bodily injury intentionally caused or aggravated by your injured worker.

We will pay promptly when due the workers compensation benefits required of you by workers compensation law.

Turning to the Definitions section of the policy, the following is stated:

Workers compensation law means the workers compensation law of each state or territory named in the Declarations page of this policy.

Accordingly, inquiry into the laws of the jurisdiction where the loss occurred must also be considered before any final coverage decision is rendered.

The States Weigh In.

California has responded to the growing concern that is workplace violence by enacting a law authorizing employers to obtain injunctions to protect their employees from harm.

Pursuant to California Civil Procedure Code  527.8(a):

Any employer, whose employee has suffered unlawful violence or a credible threat of violence from any individual, that can reasonably be construed to be carried out or to have been carried out at the workplace, may seek a temporary restraining order and an order after hearing on behalf of the employee and, at the discretion of the court, any number of other employees at the workplace, and, if appropriate, other employees at other workplaces of the employer.

Per Californias Labor Code, Chapter One,  3208.1, an occupational injury may take one of two forms:

(a) specific, occurring as the result of one incident or exposure which causes disability or need for medical treatment; or (b) cumulative, occurring as repetitive mentally or physically traumatic activities extending over a period of time, the combined effect of which causes any disability or need for medical treatment.

Injuries suffered by a California-based employee arising from violence could meet either category, depending on the severity of the episode.

By way of example, a specific injury might occur if the injured worker, a cashier, was assaulted during an armed robbery of a retail store. Conversely, a tenured law enforcement officer who has been shot at repeatedly over time could possibly be deemed to have sustained cumulative injuries.

In contrast to California, Wisconsin Statute  102.01(2)(c) defines injury pursuant to that states Workers Compensation Act as:

mental or physical harm to an employee caused by accident or disease, and also means damage to or destruction of artificial members, dental appliances, teeth, hearing aids and eyeglasses, but, in the case of hearing aids or eyeglasses, only if such damage or destruction resulted from accident which also caused personal injury entitling the employee to compensation therefor either for disability or treatment.

Wisconsin allows for statutory bad faith workers compensation damages per Wis. Stat.  102.18(1)(bg) as follows:

If the division determines that the employer or insurance carrier suspended, terminated, or failed to make payments or failed to report an injury as a result of malice or bad faith, the division may include a penalty in an award to an employee for each event or occurrence of malice or bad faith. That penalty is the exclusive remedy against an employer or insurance carrier for malice or bad faithThe division may award an amount that the division considers just, not to exceed the less of 200 percent of total compensation due or $30,000 for each event or occurrence of malice or bad faith. The division may access the penalty against the employer, the insurance carrier, or both.

Generally, the requirements to establish such bad faith will be: (1) There was no reasonable basis for denying the claim; and (2) The employer or insurance company knew or recklessly disregarded that there was no reasonable basis for denying the claim.

Consequently, in Wisconsin, a denied claim for post-traumatic stress disorder associated with a workplace violence episode could result in bad faith damages.

Later Injuries

What if the employee succumbs to injuries arising from violence sometime after the event giving rise to those injuries occurred?

Unfortunately, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) demonstrates that occupational deaths are on the rise. According to BLS, a total of 5,333 fatal work injuries were recorded in 2019, representing a 2% increase from the 5,250 reported in 2018.

In Florida,  440.16(1) mandates that If death results from the accident within 1 year thereafter or follows continuous disability and results from the accident within 5 years thereafter, the employer shall pay compensation and funeral expenses not to exceed $7,500.

It should also be noted certain jurisdictions provide for alternative dispute resolution concerning workers compensation as a way to keep these claims out of litigation.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, for instance, offers a proceeding call a Conciliation, an informal meeting between the insurer and the employee or the employees attorney. The employer typically does not attend Conciliation unless the claim involves Willful Misconduct of Employer per  28. In such cases, the employer is required to attend.

If an agreement is not reached, the next step involves an informal proceeding before an Administrative Judge. As with Conciliation, the carrier and employee must attend. As with Conciliation, the employer is not obligated to do so unless willful misconduct is involved.

Recommendations for Loss Mitigation

OSHA estimates that at least 2,000,000 workers are victims of workplace violence each year. This equates to the approximate population of the entire state of New Mexico.

Moreover, OSHA advises that many cases of workplace violence go unreported each year. Thus, the potential exists for substantially more losses than estimates predicated on OSHAs 2,000,000 figure suggest.

The underreporting problem could be attributed to the fact that employers may not wish to see their 100 days without a recordable accident winning streak broken by a workplace violence-related claim, or employees may not know where to report their safety concerns to, or they may hope that matters deescalate and try to deal with it themselves.

Whatever the underlying cause is, the time for the insurer to learn that a workplace violence claim is covered should never be when the matter is in litigation.

Investigation into the facts underlying the claim should be focused on such matters as whether there were prior interactions between the parties, and if so what did the employer do (or not do) to address this past conduct. Any injunction involving a party associated with the loss should be a red flag for the carrier.

Additionally, a disagreement between the employer and the carrier may arise over how the facts at issue in the violence giving rise to the claim are evaluated.

For instance: The application of an employers zero tolerance policy governing workplace violence might result in two workers involved in an on-the-job physical altercation being automatically subjected to the same level of discipline up to and including termination, irrespective of who initiated the brawl.

The lines are not always so clear where insurance coverage is concerned, particularly for injuries sustained by the worker who struck the second blow.

Here, the claims examiners focus should be on whether Joe truly participated in the brawl of his own free will or was he protecting himself from further injury after being attacked by an out-of-control colleague? Joes attorney could make the argument that if Joe were assaulted on the street, he would have the right to defend himself, so why should he be denied workers compensation for taking the same action in the workplace?

Attention should also be directed toward uncovering any compliancy toward workplace violence on the employers part.

The employer might look the other way regarding occupational violence, especially when verbal abuse or threats directed toward workers have not crossed the threshold into the arena of physical violence. Such situations might arise when the abuser is a client or customer who does a lot of business with the employer, and that insured wants this beneficial financial relationship to continue.

Attention should be focused on actions the employer has taken to proactively mitigate the risk of workplace violence through not just instituting, but also enforcing effective violence prevention policies.

The best workplace violence prevention standard is essentially worthless if the employer does not uniformly and equitably apply it across the board. Differing levels of treatment for favored employees vs. the rest of the workforce can lead some to become disgruntled, which is the starting point for workplace violence.

Topics Claims Workers' Compensation Commercial Lines Business Insurance Talent
Zurich is deepening emissions cuts and adding green options for customers.

Zurich Insurance Group announced this week it is taking global measures to accelerate cuts in carbon emissions from its operations in response to climate change.

Measures include new air travel guidance, a switch to cleaner vehicles and more commitments to reduce Zurichs environmental footprint.

Zurich said it also plans to expand its products and services to help customers transition to a net-zero emissions future, including a carbon-neutral equity fund, and an expansion of its commitment to underwrite renewable energy.

The climate crisis calls for urgent action and small steps taken by each of us  individuals, organizations and businesses  will add up to a giant leap over time, Mario Greco, group CEO, said in a statement. Our new measures aim to further reduce our own carbon footprint and, by having a direct impact on how we work, inspire employees, suppliers, customers and others to take action of their own.

Zurich aims to be a net-zero emissions business by 2050. Its operations have reportedly been carbon neutral since 2014, but plans to reduce its remaining greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2025 and by 70% by 2029.

Some details on the measures being taken include:

Zurich aims to reduce air travel-related emissions as of 2022 by 70% compared with their pre-pandemic level.

Communication with customers, which accounts for 80% of the groups paper consumption, is targeted to become fully digital by 2025.

New company vehicles will be electric or hybrid, with the goal to eliminate internal combustion engine-only vehicles from the fleet by 2025.

The group is aiming to implement a sustainable buildings program in an additional 50 offices by the end of 2022. A new energy efficiency ambition for real estate will be set once the target to switch to 100% renewable power across the Group is reached next year.

RMS on Climate Metrics

Taking the Guesswork out of Climate Change Metrics is the title of a new blog from modeler RMS.

The blog out Wednesday, authored by Ben Brooks, vice president of RMS consulting services, notes that regulators and stakeholders are increasingly asking questions about the impacts of climate change in terms of increased losses on their portfolios (the U.K. Prudential Regulation Authority, Climate Biennial Exploratory Scenario, Task Force for Climate-Related Financial Disclosures) and the insurance community is having to rapidly adapt and respond to requests for climate change metrics that are not always straightforward to produce.

One key term is the Representative Concentration Pathway. RCPs, taken from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change 5th assessment report in 2014, map out how global mean surface temperatures will increase relative to preindustrial levels through to 2100 based on different climate futures.

The focus is on four scenarios  RCP2.6, RCP4.5, RCP6.0, RCP8.5  that reflect the globes response to climate change, Brooks writes. They range from RCP2.6  a very stringent pathway with all carbon dioxide emissions reaching zero by 2100, to RCP8.5, a worst-case outcome where emissions continue to rise.

Brooks continued in his blog to give a highly detailed report on the importance of these and other such metrics.

Swiss Res Climeworks

Swiss start-up Climeworks AG, which specializes in capturing carbon dioxide from the air, partnered with Icelandic carbon storage firm Carbfix to develop a plant that removes up to 4,000 tons of CO2 per year  the equivalent of the annual emissions from roughly 790 cars.

The company began operating the worlds largest plant that sucks carbon dioxide directly from the air and deposits it underground this week, Reuters reported in an Insurance Journal article on Wednesday.

The Orca plant (Orca is an Icelandic word for energy) consists of eight large containers that resemble those used in the shipping industry, which employ filters and fans to extract CO2.

The isolated carbon is mixed with water and pumped underground, where it slowly turns into rock, all driven by technologies powered with renewable energy sourced from a nearby geothermal power plant, according to the Reuters article.

Direct air capture is still a fledgling and costly technology, but developers hope to drive down prices by scaling up as more companies and consumers look to reduce their carbon footprint, the article states. There are currently 15 direct air capture plants operating worldwide, capturing more than 9,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, according to the IEA.

Gen Z and Climate

Surveys show young people are going beyond merely incorporating new climate-conscious behaviors into their day-to-day lives, while college administrators have reported a rise in the numbers of students pursuing environmental-related degrees and careers, according to an article out this week in the Guardian.

The article also interviews members of Gen Z, people under age 25, who are responding to the planets rapidly changing climate by committing their lives to finding a solution.

Once you learn how damaged the worlds ecosystems are, its not really something you can unsee, Rachel Larrivee, 23, a sustainability consultant based in Boston, told the publication. To me, theres no point in pursuing a career  or life for that matter  in any other area.

The University of Southern California in Los Angeles saw significant interest in its Sustainability Across the Curriculum program launched this year to teach undergraduates how their majors intersect with sustainability and the environment, while New York Universitys environmental studies program reported similar growth, according to the article.

A projection from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows employment opportunities for environmental scientists and related specialists will grow 8% in the next 10 years.

Past columns:

Topics Talent Swiss Re
Louisianas top insurance regulator on Sept. 7 directed insurance companies pay policyholders Hurricane Ida evacuation expenses as damaged infrastructure and dangerous living conditions in Southeast Louisiana keep people from returning home.

Directive 218, issued by Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon, requires insurers to pay claims for loss of use for policyholders who evacuated or were prohibited from using their premises because of the storm.

The order follows a bulletin released by the Louisiana Department of Insurance encouraging insurers to voluntarily pay claims for prohibited use even if every Ida-impacted parish didnt issue a formal mandatory evacuation order.

In a press conference on Sept. 8, Donelon said Bulletin 2021-07 urging insurers to voluntarily accommodate policyholders was issued after Allstate requested one and indicated the company would comply. Donelon said USAA and other insurers stepped up as well.

Not all insurers are on board with the order to pay loss of use or additional living expenses, notably the states largest homeowners insurer, State Farm, which holds about 25% of the states homeowners market, Donelon said.

Commissioner Donelon strengthened the LDIs regulatory action over the loss of use issue after State Farm, the states largest insurer of homes, said it would not pay loss of use claims where no express civil authority order was in place.

State Farm cant ignore my order, no insurer can, Donelon said during the press conference. But they can challenge it in court.  We expect that it will be challenged.

In the Sept. 8 press conference, Donelon said the insurance department wants to make sure insurers are holding up their end of the contract, with policyholders. He noted that while the language in insurance policies concerning orders from civil authorities, such as mandated evacuations, are not entirely the same, there are similarities and most policies restrict payment of short term additional living expenses to 14 days.

Hurricane Ida was a clear and present danger to the citizens of Louisiana, Commissioner Donelon said in an announcement regarding Directive 218. Officials throughout the region took to the airwaves to get out the message that people needed to leave or stay in a safe place. Insurers must treat the many diverse actions taken by public officials as an order to leave and pay people who have coverage for their expenses.

The problem with Ida is that it developed so quickly, becoming a major storm within 72 hours. Because of the short notice of the storms approach, many public authorities were wary of the types of traffic grid lock that had occurred before previous storms, Donelon said at the Sept. 8 press conference. As a result, some localities ordered mandatory evacuations, and some did not. I am saying that [with] all of those messages regarding evacuations  insurers should honor them as mandatory.

The directive for insurers to provide coverage applies to policies in the 25 parishes listed in Emergency Rule 47, a measure issued by Commissioner Donelon to protect policyholders from cancellations and non-renewals after Hurricane Ida. the 25 parishes are also listed in Gov. Edwards Hurricane Ida emergency declaration.

Donelon said he issued the Sept. 3 request for voluntary accommodation, expecting the industry to comply. He issued the advisory following a visit to the Ida-devastated area in St. John the Baptist Parish by President Joe Biden, who also urged insurers to pay policyholders evacuation expenses. Donelon said he had heard from policyholders that many companies were denying loss of use claims.

According to an insurance department media release: Most homeowners policies include coverage for additional living expenses (ALE) under the prohibited use coverage that generally pays extra expenses for up to two weeks when an evacuation order prohibits policyholders from living in their homes. When homeowners have physical damage to their properties that is covered by insurance, additional living expense coverage will pay for longer term additional expenses if a home is uninhabitable during the repair.

The department recommends that affected policyholders also apply for individual assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Donelon said FEMA and insurance carriers communicate with each other regarding coverage and payouts for individual policyholders.

Additional living expenses are not covered by National Flood Insurance Program policies, the LDI noted.

The Louisiana Department of Insurance encourages everyone to keep receipts for any extra expenses they face after a disaster. Additional living expense coverage pays the expenses beyond a policyholders normal expenses for housing and food, such as the cost of a hotel room or apartment rental and reasonable restaurant meals when someone is unable to cook, the departments media release said.

Topics Carriers Catastrophe Natural Disasters Louisiana Hurricane
Louisiana health officials said Sept. 8 they are revoking the licenses of nursing homes that were evacuated to a warehouse where seven residents died amid deteriorating conditions deemed too squalid to be safe after Hurricane Ida.

The seven homes  all owned by Bob Dean  clearly failed to execute their emergency preparedness plans to provide essential care and services to their residents, Department of Health Secretary Courtney Phillips said in a statement.

Authorities found some nursing home residents lying on mattresses on the floor, without food or clean clothes, and detected strong odors of urine and feces throughout the warehouse, located in the town of Independence. Piles of trash were on the floor. Water entered the building, and generators at least temporarily failed, according to officials. Health department lawyer Stephen Russo called the conditions inhumane.

State health officials and Attorney General Jeff Landry have launched investigations into the deaths. A police official said the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse was equipped to handle 300 to 500 people but ultimately took in more than 800, all of whom were evacuated from the seven nursing homes before Ida roared ashore in southeast Louisiana on Aug. 29.

When issues arose post-storm, we now know the level of care for these residents plummeted, Phillips said. She added, Ultimately, lives were lost. These were grandparents, neighbors and friends, and we know families are hurting.

State health officials said Dean failed to contact them for help and threw inspectors from the agency off the property when they arrived to review the conditions onsite after receiving reports of problems. Still, authorities said they saw enough two days after the storm to warrant removal of the hundreds of people at the warehouse, and the evacuees were moved over two days to special needs shelters across the state and other locations. Some required hospitalization.

Dean has not responded to messages left by The Associated Press at multiple phone numbers listed for him and his businesses. But he defended the Ida evacuation in a phone interview with WAFB-TV last week.

We only had five deaths within the six days, and normally with 850 people youll have a couple a day, so we did really good with taking care of people, he told the station.

Asked about Deans comments, Russo replied: I dont think anyone could reasonably reach that conclusion.

Even before the evacuation, Deans nursing facilities and their quality of care received poor federal ratings based on inspections. Medicare.gov gives six of the seven nursing homes the lowest possible rating, and five of the sites were specifically criticized for poor quality of resident care.

Dean, a commercial developer, came under scrutiny in 1998 after an 86-year-old woman bused from one of his New Orleans-area nursing homes prior to a hurricane died waiting with hundreds of other elderly residents to be unloaded at a Baton Rouge shelter. News outlets at the time said the nursing home residents sat in a bus without air conditioning for hours, and then were placed in a building that fire officials said wasnt suitable for a hurricane evacuation shelter.

Three days before revoking the nursing homes licenses, the health department ordered the facilities closed so residents couldnt be sent back. Of the seven deaths of residents reported by authorities, the health department considers five of them storm-related. Few details have been released about the deaths.

The health department said it has provided information about the nursing home evacuation and conditions at the warehouse to Landrys office and local and federal law enforcement agencies.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Louisiana Senior Care
Oregon employers will pay on average less for workers compensation coverage in 2021, the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services announced on Thursday.

The decline in costs marks nine years of average decreases in the pure premium rate  the base rate insurers use to determine how much employers must pay for medical costs and lost wages, according to the DCBS.

The bureau says that underpinning the cost decreases is the success of Oregons workers comp system, which includes programs to control costs, maintain good worker benefits, ensure employers carry insurance for their workers, and to improve workplace safety and health.

Employers, on average, will pay 97 cents per $100 of payroll for workers comp costs in 2022, down from $1.02 in 2021, under a proposal by DCBS. That figure covers workers comp claims costs, assessments, and insurer profit and expenses.

The pure premium rate will drop by an average 5.8% under the proposal. Pure premium  filed by a national rate-setting organization and reviewed by DCBS  will have declined by 51% during the 2013 to 2022 period.

The reduction in costs is due to a continued downward trend in Oregons lost-time claim frequency and downward trends in claim severity and medical costs, according to the National Council on Compensation Insurance.

Employers total cost for workers comp insurance includes the pure premium and insurer profit and expenses, plus the premium assessment. Employers also pay half of the Workers Benefit Fund assessment, which is a cents-per-hour-worked rate.

The decrease in the pure premium will be effective Jan. 1, 2022, but employers will see the changes when they renew their policies in 2022. The assessment changes will be effective Jan. 1, 2022.

Topics Workers' Compensation Oregon
Former insurance agent Steven Gordon, 67, of Camarillo, Calif. was arraigned on Thursday on 21 felony counts of grand theft, forgery, identity theft, and credit card fraud after allegedly stealing more than $1 million from three former clients.

The California Department of Insurance launched an investigation after an insurance company reported suspicious withdrawals from one of their customers accounts. It was discovered that Gordon, as owner of Geetis Group Inc., made six electronic transfer funds, totaling $103,520, from the victims annuity account to an account that he controlled. He also reputedly stole $70,000 from that same victims savings account, charged nearly $100,000 to their credit card, and forged checks to steal approximately $310,000 from their bank account.

During the investigation, the CDI discovered two additional victims, a husband and wife. Gordon reportedly made dozens of electronic transfers, totaling $679,934 from multiple annuity accounts owned by the victims to a bank account that he controlled. He also allegedly forged bank checks to steal an additional $102,852 from their bank account.

The investigation revealed Gordon concealed his crimes by stealing the identities of his victims and changing the mailing address of the accounts to his home address. He also changed the email addresses associated with his victims accounts to an email address that he created. This prevented the victims from receiving account statements showing evidence of the withdrawals he was making. Gordon would then mail the victims falsified account statements he created that omitted the withdrawals.

Gordon was arrested and booked into custody on Aug. 26 by the Ventura County Sheriffs Office. Gordon is scheduled to return to court on Oct. 26. The case is being prosecuted by the Ventura County District Attorneys Office, Fraud and Technology Crimes Unit.

Topics California Agencies
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A High Court challenge has been brought against a decision to extend the life of a planning permission granted allowing tech giant Apple build a data centre in Co Galway.

Galway County Council was not entitled to make a decision extending planning permission to build the centre, located near Athenry, Co Galway, the High Court heard.

Apple secured permission to build the centre from An Bord Pleanala in 2016, but citing lengthy delays shelved its plans to go ahead with the development in May 2018.

Legal challenge by local residents

The board's decision allowing Apple to build the 850m facility was the subject of a legal challenge by local residents.

That case raised important issues concerning Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) in regards to other infrastructure projects.

In 2019 the Supreme Court upheld the board's decision to grant permission, The court ruled the board was not obliged to carry out a full EIA on the entire masterplan.

The court also said it did not consider it necessary to refer the issues for ruling by the European Court of Justice.

The High Court has now heard that one of the local residents who took the earlier action, Mr Allan Daly, now seeks to challenge Galway County Council's decision to extend the duration of the original planning permission granted to Apple in 2016.
Payments for EU farmers who actively sequester carbon on their lands could be in place next year.

Carbon farming is part of the EUs Climate Target Plan for 2030. A proposal is expected by the end of 2021, which would be followed by stakeholder consultations.

Last April, the Commission published a study on how to set up and implement carbon farming in the EU, which will feed into the launch of an EU carbon farming initiative by the end of this year.

The study reviewed existing schemes for the protection and development of natural carbon sinks and explored how to trigger carbon farming in the EU. It concluded that carbon farming brings benefits such as carbon sequestration and storage, and increased biodiversity and preservation of eco-systems.

The Commission first wants to integrate agricultural non-CO2 greenhouse gas emissions (mostly methane) into the land use, land-use change, and forestry (LULUCF) sector and to create a new regulated sector covering agriculture, forestry, and land use, which would, in turn, provide the basis for carbon farming.

However, it will be a difficult challenge to devise a system of payment for carbon offsetting, given the many question marks over existing worldwide offsetting schemes first introduced more than 20 years ago.

These are widely used by companies to compensate for their emissions and to improve their green image.

For example, fossil fuel companies buy carbon offsets associated with trees which would absorb carbon over the coming years, balancing out the pollution from production and use of fuel.

Organisations that plant and protect trees, install renewable energy or do other activities that can reduce net emissions, sell a carbon offset for every tonne of carbon saved or removed.

Companies buy these, for example, airlines, some of which allow customers in turn to pay for the offsets, to give them the satisfaction of carbon neutral flying.

However, the system is voluntary and unregulated, and there is also the view that offsets give companies what buy them a licence to pollute.

Carbon farming schemes set up by governments may offer a better model for the EU.

European lawmakers will no doubt study the progress of the Canadian federal governments recently announced $200m programme over three years to help farmers adopt beneficial management practices that store carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through cover cropping, nitrogen management and rotational grazing practices.

Direct payments to Canadian farmers will be provided through delivery partners like producer associations, Indigenous groups, non-governmental organisations and provincial Crown corporations.

Canadas On-Farm Climate Action Fund will support three target areas.

Cover cropping will earn the farmer a payment per acre to cover costs such as seeds and equipment, for crops like clover and alfalfa planted to cover the soil rather than for harvest.

Payments will also cover the costs of nutrient management plans, equipment modifications for fertiliser application, and soil sampling and analysis.

Thirdly, there will be payments for costs of developing rotational grazing.

Like the EU, Canada aims to be a net-zero emissions economy by 2050 and will invest $4bn up to 2030 in its Natural Climate Solutions Fund.

Here, Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue has said his Department has no plans to develop a voluntary carbon market, but this will be kept under review.

Carbon farming is highlighted in the EU Green Deal under the farm to fork strategy and the European Commission are examining ways of encouraging activities that remove carbon across sectors. The Department does see potential opportunities to attract private finance from voluntary carbon markets and forest owners and organisations can avail and develop these opportunities as long as they don't impact on Ireland's international accounting and reporting requirements.

The Department will examine developing proposals by the European Commission on carbon farming to see if existing funding models can be improved.

The Department currently operates the Woodland Environment Fund which includes a mix of private finance and state aid to part-fund the establishment of these forests, and this model has worked well."

The Woodland Environment Fund allows businesses that partner with Government and private landowners in creating diverse woodland habitats to use this activity for promotion purposes for 15 years. The landowner gets a once-off payment of 1,000/hectare, in addition to normal Native Woodland Scheme payments.

Minister McConalogue has also committed to develop a pilot scheme for on-farm carbon trading, through AgClimatise, the national climate and air roadmap for the agriculture sector.

And the recently introduced National Soil Sampling Programme will be essential in providing the necessary data to realise the potential of carbon farming in Ireland, due to its role in the measurement of greenhouse gas emissions from Irish farms.

Meanwhile, an international effort is underway to improve the international carbon offsets market. A progress report is expected at Novembers COP26 international climate conference from a task force headed by former Bank of England governor Mark Carney, now UN special envoy on climate action and finance and Bill Winters, chief executive of the Standard Chartered multinational banking and financial services company
The leader of the DUP is to announce the next steps in his partys campaign to remove the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Jeffrey Donaldson will be speaking in the Belfast area on Thursday morning as European Commission vice president Maros Sefcovic is visiting the region.

Speaking ahead of his speech, Mr Donaldson blasted the protocol as not just a threat to the economic and constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom, but said the post Brexit arrangements are having real world impacts on our economy.

The protocol was agreed by the UK and EU as a way to maintain a free-flowing land border on the island of Ireland.

It achieves that by moving many of the checks and processes required on goods to the Irish Sea.

Under the arrangements, Northern Ireland remains in the EU single market for goods and continues to apply EU customs rules.

Unionists in Northern Ireland have been vehemently opposed to its terms which see additional checks on goods arriving to the region from the rest of the UK.

Loyalists have staged a series of demonstrations while unionists have taken legal action against it.

Earlier this week, the UK government announced it was unilaterally extending a variety of grace periods to further delay full implementation of aspects of the protocol.

The government said the move was to create space to reach an agreement with the EU on some of the ongoing sticking points.

Mr Donaldson stressed the protocol is not just a unionist problem.

Senior economist at the University of Ulster Business School, Dr Esmond Birnie recently suggested that the cost of the Northern Ireland protocol could be in the region of 850 million per year, he said.

That is money we simply cannot afford to lose. And though I am alarmed by the constitutional implications of the protocol, it is assuredly not simply a unionist issue. In recent days Marks & Spencer chairman Archie Norman warned that customers in Northern Ireland could face a substantial reduction in food supply and price increases later this year.

Mr Donaldson said he welcomed the recent publication of the UKs command paper as a step in the right direction, but he added: in the absence of actual progress, we cannot remain in this political limbo.

There are three key issues  movement of goods, standards and governance. It is essential that all are addressed, he said.

This is not simply a question of limiting checks at the border or moving the checks from the border.

It must mean that, save for the most limited circumstances, EU law would not apply in Northern Ireland.

And it must mean that where there is a dispute, we are not being asked to argue our case in front of a judicial system created by one of the parties to that dispute.

The DUP, under previous leader Arlene Foster, previously announced a campaign to ditch the protocol.

In February it vowed to actively oppose any negative measures, laws or bills that flowed from the protocol and undermined Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market.

They then also put the Irish and UK governments on notice that the party will not participate in any talks with the Irish government related to the protocol, warning that north-south relations would be impacted.

Meanwhile, Mr Sefcovic is expected to hold a series of meetings in Northern Ireland on Thursday during his visit.
Protesters from Donegal affected by mica gathered at the Fianna Fail think-in on Thursday to demand action from the Government.

Members of the party gathering in Cavan on Thursday were welcomed by around 30 protesters from Donegal calling for a 100% redress scheme for people affected by mica.

Earlier this year, thousands of people gathered in Dublin for a protest demanding a 100% redress scheme for housing defects caused by the mineral.

Defective building blocks containing mica have caused cracks and fissures to open in an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 homes, primarily in Mayo and Donegal.

Paddy Diver holding mica outside Leinster House during a demonstration outside the Government Buildings in Dublin in June (Niall Carson/PA)

Paddy Diver, one of the leaders of the campaign for 100% redress, said they were demanding that Taoiseach Micheal Martin, as well as Fianna Fail TDs, speak to them.

We want Fianna Fail to come out and chat to us now, he told PA news agency.

Protesters arrived at 12pm on Thursday and planned to stay until the evening.

Were asking them to come out and speak to us. And if they have no time for us today, well have no time for them in the future, Mr Diver said.

If they want something to actually stand for  Irish citizens, families and homes. This is a chance to redeem yourselves and you still have a chance.

It is a duty for every TD to speak to us.

Whoever doesnt come out will be named and shamed.

Campaigners have criticised the existing Government redress scheme and are calling for 100% of their costs, with many of the homes facing demolition.

They want action from Housing Minister Darragh OBrien, a Fianna Fail TD.

Mary Connors, a homeowner from Inch Island in Donegal who is affected by mica, attended the protest.

She said that the Government is listening, but is unwilling to act.

The people have finally had it. If they dont give us the 100% redress, people are ready to demonstrate again, she told PA news agency.
The mother of a domestic violence victim has called for a helpline to be set up for people who are having "intrusive or homicidal" thoughts to be able to talk about them "without feeling shame".

Maria Dempsey's daughter Alicia Brough was just 20 years old when she was stabbed to death in Limerick by John Geary in 2010.

Alicia lost her life trying to save her friend Sarah Hines, who Mr Geary murdered along with his five-month-old daughter Amy and her three-year-old brother Reece.

Speaking on Radio Kerry, Ms Dempsey said that if there was somewhere for people to talk openly about homicidal thoughts, it might make a difference to that person and prevent them from acting.

"I have this thought that let's start talking about homicidal and murderous thoughts, thoughts of harm," she said. "They're normal.

"If you've been bullied at school, you'd have thought about wanting to take revenge on the person that hurt you know.

"Those are all very normal, it becomes abnormal when it becomes intrusive and when it becomes a plan, and then when they feel that they can't go back."

Maria Dempsey's daughter Alicia Brough was just 20 years old when she was stabbed to death in Limerick by John Geary in 2010.

Ms Dempsey said the important thing is for people to be able to talk openly without feeling guilt "because there's no shame in having thoughts of harming people, but there is shame in murdering somebody."

"I really think that maybe we should have a helpline where people can independently ring, and say, 'help me, I'm having intrusive thoughts. I need to get rid of these horrible thoughts that I am having' without feeling shame."

Ms Dempsey's comments come in the wake of the latest familial tragedy in Lixnaw, Co Kerry, where Eileen OSullivan and son Jamie were allegedly shot dead by partner and father Mossie OSullivan, who then took his own life.

"Nothing can save those who have gone by now, but their lives can save other lives. They are relevant to saving others."

She has called for relevant authorities to conduct domestic homicide reviews of cases and talk to people who may have been in contact with the victims and the perpetrators to see if there was a way that these tragedies could be prevented in the future.

Ms Dempsey said there is currently a review taking place, which was introduced by the Justice Minister in May 2019, about whether such reviews would be carried out in Ireland but it has not yet been decided more than two years later.

Ms Dempsey's comments come in the wake of the latest familial tragedy in Lixnaw, Co Kerry, where Eileen OSullivan and son Jamie were allegedly shot dead by partner and father Mossie OSullivan, who then took his own life. Picture: Larry Cummins

"If we take Portugal, England, Wales, Norway, some counties in America, after a domestic homicide, they do a domestic homicide review," she said.

"These are really interesting, because ... they talked to family, they talked to friends they talk to any services that victims and perpetrators, may have been in contact with.

"You heard about the superintendent's asking for people to be in contact with even insignificant thoughts that people have had since.

"When we take all these insignificant little thoughts, and we put them together, we get a much bigger picture of what was going on."

Speaking about her daughter's case, Ms Dempsey said that John Geary had told a number of people in a pub that he was going to kill Sarah Hines who had recently ended their relationship.

"How many families now are trying to put together, trying to find answers to what happened," she said. "Could, could anything have saved them?"

"Nothing can save those who have gone by now, but their lives can save other lives. They are relevant to saving others."
In Person Declaration of War Necessary as International Pressure Fails: Myanmar Shadow Govt

Feature: Daw Zin Mar Aung, the National Unity Governments Foreign Minister. / The Irrawaddy

Myanmars shadow National Unity Government (NUG) call on Tuesday for a war against the military regime generated mixed reactions. While the majority of Myanmar people, who have endured the regimes atrocities such as arbitrary killings, arrests and indiscriminate shootings, heartily embraced the announcement of the nationwide revolt, the international community was not impressed.

On Tuesday, the UKs ambassador designate to Myanmar, Pete Vowles, tweeted that the UK supports peaceful efforts to restore democracy in Myanmar. We strongly condemn the juntas coup and brutality; we call on all parties to engage in dialogue. This means that the UK, which has supported the anti-regime movement since the coup, does not support the NUGs call for a war to topple the junta. Echoing what the UK said, the US embassy in Yangon told The Irrawaddy that they encourage all sides to be peaceful and to avoid an escalation of violence, while continuing to push the regime to end all violence.

China, Myanmars biggest neighbor and one of the regimes protectors at the United Nations Security Council, just repeated its unpractical old mantra on Myanmar, saying that all parties and factions in Myanmar should find a proper way to address problems through political dialogue under the constitutional and legal framework.

The NUGs Foreign Minister Daw Zin Mar Aung has her say on the reason behind the declaration of war, and offers her view on the international response and the controversial ceasefire request made by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) special envoy for Myanmar.

What is the reason for the announcement of a nationwide defensive war and all-out revolt against the junta?

The [acting] presidents speech encourages the existing resistance movement to step up the momentum of its activities. Actually, the people have been acting in self-defense in their respective regions since before the NUGs call for a war. The official announcement on Tuesday was a consequence of the diplomatic failures we have seen, because the international pressure and sanctions [on the regime] have proved to be ineffective in the seven months since the coup. So the call is an alert to the existing revolutionary movement.

What is the NUGs response to the international communitys reaction to the announcement?

Some countries have asked why we announced it. Our answer is simple. We have people who are continuing the peaceful protests under the leadership of the strike committees, as well as the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) against military rule. The CDM and the non-violence movement arent stopping, while our political efforts [to get recognition and to reject the military regime] via international pressure and diplomatic channels will continue. But these efforts are not enough. Therefore, we have to put some momentum into the resistance movement. This is not a shift from a non-violent movement to violence. It is just that we will use all possible means to restore democracy.

What is the NUGs stand on dialogue with the regime?

Every experienced person focused on peace building and conflict studies knows that there have to be pre-conditions before dialogue can happen. A period of time is needed. A change in political circumstance is needed before dialogue can happen. Such conditions and changes need to come first. Until then, we should not be pressured to hold dialogue.

The international community has always expressed their concerns since the coup. But there is no action. Our people are suffering all the time. We have been raising our voices loudly to the international community to intervene and to exert pressure on the junta.

The international intervention was sluggish. It took four months to appoint an ASEAN special envoy. During those four months, the number of civilian deaths and civilian arrests rose from the hundreds to the thousands. They could not even pressure the militarys State Administration Council to allow the ASEAN special envoy to visit Myanmar. Our people are too frustrated. We, the NUG, have a responsibility to reflect our peoples voices and suffering. Our call for a war is our response to the depressing lack of action by the international community.

What is the NUGs position on the ASEAN special envoys proposal of a four-month ceasefire?

The envoy did not directly talk to us about the proposed four-month ceasefire. As far as we understand, the ASEAN special envoy is trying to visit Myanmar and has requested to meet all relevant stakeholders, including detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and President U Win Myint, strike committees, ethnic groups, the Committee Representing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and the NUG. That has been ASEANs five-point consensus and we understand that ASEAN is trying to implement it.

Regarding the call for a ceasefire [until the end of this year], it is totally dependent on the regime as they are the ones who have been shooting civilians. People would not need to respond with defensive acts if the regime stopped attacking them. Our peoples actions in self-defense are the result of the militarys attacks against civilians and treating them as if they are an enemy on the battlefield. The junta has the sole responsibility and it must hold its fire.

The juntas spokesperson has accused the NUG of inciting instability. What is the NUGs response to that?

The NUGs Defense Ministry has strictly instructed all the Peoples Defense Forces (PDF) to follow its code of conduct. That is also publicized to make sure that the PDFs under the NUGs command abide by those instructions. I think people will not worry [about the NUGs announcement on war]. They all know who is indiscriminately shooting passers-by, children and pregnant women. The reason the PDFs were formed was because of the militarys aggressive actions. Instead of protecting the public, the military is treating the people as the enemy.

Targeting civilians is not the policy of the NUG or the PDFs. Professional armed forces dont go on killing sprees and commit indiscriminate attacks. The PDFs are the first step towards changing Myanmars whole security sector, which has been in ruins for decades under previous military regimes as well as the current one.

Regarding the NUGs call for a war, I think the people are excited rather than worried. They have been waiting for this day and some have said that the NUGs declaration should have come earlier. The NUG has no responsibility for the instability in the country. Its the coup leaders who created the instability in the country by seizing power and overthrowing the civilian government on February 1.



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Hideo Watanabe (left) and Myanmar coup leader Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing

When it comes to the Myanmar regimes international partners, all eyes are on China and Russia for their cozy relations with the junta and their constant protection of the military rulers at the UN Security Council by vetoing critical resolutions proposed by the West.

A country that has largely been off the radar so far though is Japan.

When Deputy Prime Minister of Japan and Minister of Finance Taro Aso had a discussion with his counterpart from a member country during the G7 Finance Ministers meeting in London in early June this year, the topic discussed was reportedly Myanmar under military rule.

According to the Japanese daily Asahi Shimbun, the minister said other countries could rely on Japan when it came to Myanmars politics, as there is a Japanese person with a good relationship with Myanmar junta chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing.

The deputy prime ministers reliable person on the Myanmar issue is Hideo Watanabe, the chairperson of the Japan Myanmar Association (JMA). Founded by Watanabe in March 2012, the JMA is a private group launched to rally support for the wave of Japanese investment in the Southeast Asian country. The association includes retired government bureaucrats and business executives and members of big Japanese companies, and has more than 100 member firms. Aso is the supreme adviser to the association.

Following the military coup in Myanmar on Feb. 1 this year, Japan stressed that it was the only communication channel with the Myanmar military and asked the junta chief for the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other detainees. On Feb. 5, the Japanese government told the international community that it had many different channels for its relations with the military.

But unlike Beijing and the Kremlin, Tokyo condemned the coup and has put on hold new official development assistance for the Southeast Asian country in response to the takeover, though it has not imposed sanctions on individuals and groups involved as the US and other Western nations have done.

When the international community was caught by surprise by the Myanmar military coup in February and testing the waters on how to respond it, the 87-year-old flew to the countrys capital Naypyitaw seven days after the takeover.

He was escorted to the Presidential Residence to meet with the coup leader Min Aung Hlaing.

Watanabe was warmly welcomed by his host on the second floor of the residence. The general told him that he had to resort to the coup and to please understand him.

I have met with Min Aung Hlaing three times and talked to him on the phone five or six times since February. There is no one who can go between like myself, he told the paper.

The JMA chairman was also in Myanmar in January. During their meeting at the time, Min Aung Hlaing told him that the Daw Aung San Suu Kyi-led National League for Democracy simply won the election because it rigged the votes.

The friendship between Min Aung Hlaing and Watanabe is nearly 10 years old. According to Japanese sources close to the chairman, there are only two Japanese who have direct access to the Myanmar general: Watanabe and the Nippon Foundations Yohei Sasakawa, the Japanese special envoy for national reconciliation in Myanmar.

The paper said the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs believed the JMA chairperson is an important person who has access to the inner circle of the Myanmar military.

Who is Watanabe?

Watanabe was first assigned to provide aid to Myanmar in 1987 and began his involvement with the military afterwards. He continued his relations with Myanmar even when the country was under military rule after the pro-democracy movement was crushed and state power was seized by the military in 1988. He became friends with Thein Sein, then a military commander in Shan State, who was later promoted to general. In 2011, Thein Sein, by then a civilian, took office as the president of Myanmar.

The JMA chairperson met with President Thein Sein at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw the same year as the latter was sworn in. During the meeting, the president allowed the construction of Thilawa Port in Yangon to be run by Japanese firms.

The next day, Watanabe met Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing to check if the commander-in-chief agreed with the fact that the port construction would be taken care of by Japan. Later, as the relations went smoothly, at least 50 meetings were held between the two.

After obtaining permission for port construction and returning to Japan, the JMA chief held discussions with the prime minister and other officials. Subsequently, 500 billion yen that Myanmar owed to Japan was written off and Japanese official development assistance (ODA) that had been suspended when Myanmar was under military rule was resumed.

The Thilawa Port, which was based on ODA and cost a huge amount of money, was able to open in September 2015.

The amount of Japanese investment in Myanmar escalated with the completion of the port.

In his meeting with Aso, the then deputy prime minister of Japan, in 2013, Watanabe told the deputy that the Myanmar military wanted to continue its relations with him alone.

In his interview with the Japanese paper, Watanabe said he had established relations with the Myanmar military at the directive of Prime Minister Abe and Deputy Prime Minister Aso since 2013.

Regime apologist

In late May, with the number of Myanmar civilians killed by the regime exceeding 800, Watanabes son Yusuke, who is the secretary general of the JMA, wrote in The Diplomat that Min Aung Hlaings coup was constitutional and stressed the need for Japan to continue to boost its special relationship with the Tatmadaw. The Tatmadaw is Myanmars military.

In several interviews with the Asahi Shimbun, Hideo Watanabe said Min Aung Hlaing didnt stage a coup and he did what he should in accordance with the law.

Watanabe insisted that he was not siding with the military but didnt want people to say that the military was suppressing and killing its own citizens. He said he believed Min Aung Hlaing would bring a genuine democratic system to Myanmar, because he was told so.

Yuka Kiguchi of Mekong Watch told The Irrawaddy that Watanabes statement was also contrary to the resolution condemning the military coup in Myanmar which was adopted by both Houses in the Japanese parliament.

Japanese people reject Mr. Watanabes support for the Tatmadaw. Businesspeople who are not members of the Japan Myanmar Association have criticized his arrogant remarks. I strongly reject his comments, said the executive director of the Tokyo-based advocacy NGO, which addresses and prevents the negative environmental and social impacts of development in the Mekong region, which includes Myanmar.

For all his personal ties with Min Aung Hlaing, Watanabes effort seemed to bear no fruit while the Japanese governments attempts to sway the Myanmar military based on previous good relations have been in vain.

During the meeting on Feb. 8, he told Min Aung Hlaing not to use live bullets on protesters. The latter reportedly agreed. The next day, a protester was shot in the head with a live bullet. There was also a contradiction between Watanabe and the Japanese Foreign Ministry. While the ministry said it condemned the military coup in Myanmar in the G7 Foreign Ministers statement on Myanmar on Feb. 3, the JMA chairman insisted that there had been no coup.

Toshimitsu Motegi, Japanese minister for foreign affairs, criticized the shooting of protesters in Myanmar in his online meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Feb. 10. He also conveyed Tokyos demands that the Myanmar military junta stop the brutal killing of civilians, release detainees and rebuild a genuine democratic system. In Myanmar, Japanese Ambassador Ichiro Maruyama met with Wunna Maung Lwin, minister for foreign affairs for the ruling military, to submit the same demands. Nothing happened.

Watanabe visited Myanmar again in May and stayed until early June. During his time in the country, he met with Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing twice. He said the junta chief told him he would bring about a democratic system in the country and hold an election within the next two years. Watanabe seemed to believe what he was told. In fact the election organized by the coup leader Min Aung Hlaing will have no space for Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and her party, the National League for Democracy, as the junta is trying to disband it. Recently, the junta canceled the NLDs sweeping 2020 electoral results, attracting fury from Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi, who said the development is not preferable because it goes against the realization of a swift return to the democratic process that Japan has been demanding.

At a press conference after the ministerial meeting on June 1, journalists asked if Watanabe was assigned by the Japanese government to handle Myanmar and Motegi said no. It seems like a clear line between the government and the individual who has been considered the communication channel for Tokyo, meaning that the Japanese governments favor of Watanabe for his personal ties to the Myanmar coup leader is now waning.

It appears so, but because he is not a member of parliament any more, his political power has probably diminished, said Kiguchi. Watanabe used to be the minister of posts and telecommunications, representing the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), and has close personal contacts with many party members.

Meanwhile in Tokyo, Watanabe has been a frequent target for Myanmar democracy activists.

In May and August, Myanmar people in Japan staged protests against him in front of the JMA office.

Ko Thant Zaw Tun from Revolution Tokyo Myanmar, which organized the protests, said Watanabe is protecting the regime.

He covered up the coup and made wrong reports about Myanmar to the Japanese government. They caused Japans responses to Myanmar issues to be less effective, he said.



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Members of the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force. / KNDF

Myanmars junta has suffered an increasing number of attack by the Peoples Defense Forces (PDF) across the country since the civilian National Unity Government (NUG) declared war on the regime.

In a speech on Tuesday, the NUGs acting president, Duwa Lashi La, called on all citizens to revolt against the rule of the military terrorists led by [coup leader] Ming Aung Hlaing in every corner of the country by declaring the state of emergency.

Myanmar has since seen a growing number of PDF explosions and attacks on junta forces and military-owned telecom masts.

Many PDFs urged people to be alert, avoid non-essential travel and help the civilian resistance as more violence is expected.

The military regimes spokesman Major General Zaw Min Tun admitted that attacks on junta personnel had increased in Yangon and Mandalay after the NUGs announcement.

On Thursday a junta soldier was reportedly killed and three others wounded after a PDF bomb attack in Monywa Township, Sagaing Region.

A Monywa PDF video shows around five junta troops inspecting vehicles on a road being hit by a remote-controlled bomb.

On Wednesday, the PDF in Kale, Sagaing Region, said it ambushed a military convoy on the Gangaw highway using landmines and explosives.

The group said it believed many junta troops were killed in the ambush and PDF volunteers escaped without injury.

Junta soldiers burned down nine Kanthar village homes and killed three villagers, including one who suffers from mental illness, at Doe Nwe village in southern Kale Township, according to the PDF.

Three intense firefights occurred in Myaung Township, Sagaing Region, on Wednesday when troops used explosives while attempting to raid PDF strongholds in the township, according to Myaungs Civilian Defense and Security Organization.

During the firefights, members of four Mandalay Region PDFs joined the Myaung group to resist the junta forces.

At least nine junta soldiers were killed during two firefights at Myitsone village in Myaung Township on Wednesday, the group said.

The combined force also ambushed approximately 60 military reinforcements in three vehicles arriving at Kyauk Yit village in the township to retake a police outpost seized by the PDF. Another three junta troops were killed, according to the Myaung group.

The PDF set Nabet villages police outpost on fire on Wednesday in the township, the group said.

The fighting is in response to attacks by the junta troops on us, a PDF member in Myaung told The Irrawaddy.

On Tuesday, junta forces blew up a PDF camp in the township.

Five junta soldiers were killed in an ambush in Pekon Township, Kayah State, on Wednesday by the townships PDF and the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force (KNDF).

In response, junta soldiers killed two civilians on a motorbike, the KNDF said.

Junta troops deployed near Daw Poese village and a police station in Demoso Township, Kayah State, were also attacked on Tuesday.

The Yaw Defense Force said it ambushed two military vehicles patrolling in Gangaw Township, Magwe Region, on Tuesday, reportedly killing nine junta soldiers and wounding 10 others.

Myanmars junta is also being attacked by ethnic armed groups in Kachin, Shan, Kayah, Mon and Karen states and Sagaing and Tanintharyi regions.

Since the NUGs war announcement, the regime is escalating inspections and arrests across the country.

By Wednesday, 1,054 people have been killed by junta forces during their raids, arrests, crackdowns, interrogations and shooting, said the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

An estimated 7,973 people, including elected government leaders, have also been detained by the junta or face arrest warrants.



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Burma Myanmar Junta Finds Allies Among Well-Known Buddhist Monks

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Seven months after the military coup in Myanmar, some young Buddhist monks have taken off their yellow robes to join the armed struggle against the junta, while other older and senior ones are throwing in their lot with the junta leaders.

One of the monks in the latter group is Sitagu Sayadaw, who accompanied Vice Senior General Soe Win, the No. 2 man in the military regime, on his Russia trip earlier this month. Another big name that is closely connected with the coup is U Kovida, a monk from Shan States Kengtung who has been accused of providing coup leader Senior General Min Aung Hlaing with astrological advice ahead of the takeover.

Other influential monks include 92-year-old Bhaddanta Dhamma Siri from Tachileik in eastern Shan State; Bhaddanta Kavidaja from Hpa-an in Karen State, a leading monk in the now-defunct Association for Protection of Race and Religion, known by its Burmese acronym Ma Ba Tha; and Dhammaduta Ashin Chekinda.

After the coup, some Buddhist monks joined civilians in street protests against the regime, some staged silent demonstrations inside their monasteries, some were beaten and arrested by security personnel for their anti-junta activities, and some took off their robes to take up arms against the regime.

But it has been a different story for other high-profile monks including Sitagu Sayadaw. The 84-year-old is the second-most-influential leader of Shwe Kyin, one of Myanmars nine Buddhist clergy sects. Its members are known for strictly obeying the Vinaya, the code of conduct for Buddhist monks.

The monk was widely recognized for his outreach and charity work, and was an outspoken critic of military dictatorships in the past. He apparently got close with Myanmars military under U Thein Seins quasi-civilian government in 2015 when he, as the vice chairman of the nationalist organization Ma Ba Tha, pushed for enactment of a legislative package known as the race and religion protection laws, which are designed to prevent the spread of Islam in Myanmar.

Later, Myanmars military chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaingnow the coup leaderbecame a familiar face among his high-level followers.

Since the coup, he has never failed to portray himself as a promoter of Buddhism, making the most of popular opinion among the countrys nationalists that Daw Aung San Suu Kyis ousted National League for Democracy government favored human rights over the religion that the majority of citizens practice. He started his mission by hastily paying a visit to the well-known Zaygone Sayadaw and other monks in Naypyitaw one day after the coup. (Sadly, the monk died in a military plane crash in June.) The general has also ordered his subordinates to follow suit, visiting and making offerings to other monks. As Myanmar is a Buddhist-majority country, senior monks have a significant influence on their many followers. Min Aung Hlaing might think that if he has blessings from the monks, support from their disciples will follow.

While many young Buddhist monks were taking to the streets nearly every day against the regime, Sitagu Sayadaw never failed to receive Min Aung Hlaing and his wife at his monastery at Sagaing Hill. When Min Aung Hlaing took blessings from Myanmars senior monks for his construction of the worlds largest Buddha statue in Naypyitaw in March, Sitagu Sayadaw was there. At the time, nearly five dozen protesters were gunned down by the regimes troops across the country.

The monk was present when since-ousted State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi of the National League for Democracy government offered meals to Buddhist monks. He often receives offerings from Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing and the generals wife, Daw Kyu Kyu Hla. Some three months before the coup, the couple offered meals to the monk.

The monk is currently at the Myanma Theravada Buddha Vihara Monastery in Moscow. The monastery has received donations from Snr-Gen Min Aung Hlaing and his wife, among others.

Ashin Arsara, a striking monk from Mandalay, said he felt sad to see Myanmars leading monks like Sitagu Sayadaw stand with the regime when the whole nation is fighting against it.

One of the figureheads of the Buddhist clergy is standing with the unjust. As a Buddhist monk, I feel embarrassed and sorry for the people, he said.

Another famous monk is U Kovida, commonly known as Vasipake Sayadaw and famous for his vows of silence. Min Aung Hlaing has been his follower since 2006, when the general was serving as the commander of the Myanmar militarys Triangle Region, which oversees eastern Shan State.

He has been accused of advising the senior general to tell security forces to shoot protesters in the head. Most of the anti-regime protesters killed in the early days of the junta crackdown had bullet wounds to the head.

The monk was singled out for criticism at anti-regime protests, with some protesters attaching photos of him to htameinwomens sarongsand hanging them in public places to express their wrath. Seeing the pictures of the monk he venerates attached to htamein is an infuriating sight for Min Aung Hlaing. He ordered his troops to take the womens garments down and publicly announced in his state-run papers that anyone committing the act would be charged with insulting Buddhism. The 64-year-old monk has close ties with Sitagu Sayadaw.

Another monk, Bhaddanta Dhamma Siri, known as Two Dragon Sayadaw after his monastery, was the first to receive the Abhidhaja Maha Rahta Guru, one of the highest religious titles in Myanmar, after the coup. The monk with red and white amulets on both wrists came under fire as the coup leader presented the title to him in person at his monastery, and he accepted the title after hundreds of young activists had been killed by the regime. Its noteworthy that Min Aung Hlaing personally presented titles or paid visits only to monks who either have influence or knowledge of some special power. The coup leader was seen, even at the regimes governing body meetings, wearing a red amulet believed to be given by one of the monks on his return from Kengtung and Tachileik.

In May, during their tour to Karen State, Min Aung Hlaing and his wife visited the radical monk Bhaddanta Kavidaja, who, prior to the NLD governments ousting, publicly showed his support for the military by organizing pro-military rallies. The monk, known as Zwegabin Sayadaw after the name of his monastery, publicly defied the NLD governments designation of the Ma Ba Tha as an unlawful association and its order that the groups signboards should be taken down across the country.

He is widely believed to have taken the helm of the Buddha Dhamma Parahita Foundation, the successor to Ma Ba Tha.

Dhammasuta Chekinda is known for his summer school programs, in which he teaches teenagers Buddhism and other subjects, attracting hundreds of youngsters annually. The monk has barely appeared in public since the coup and has been tight-lipped about the regimes brutal crackdowns on peaceful protesters, some of which were the same age as his summer school students. He is therefore thought to share the views of Sitagu Sayadaw. Ashin Chekinda currently serves as a department head at the International Theravada Missionary University in Yangon. Rumors have it that the monk chooses not to offend the regime and senior monks who have close ties to it, like Sitagu Sayadaw, because in order to become the rector of the university he may need the approval of senior monks and authorities.

Military dictators have never been reluctant to manipulate religion to maintain their grip on power. The regime earlier this week dropped the legal case against firebrand nationalist monk U Wirathu, who was charged with sedition by the since-ousted NLD government. U Wirathu, who has earned a notorious name among Myanmar people, is a faithful follower of Sitagu Sayadaw, who once blessed the younger monk by calling him my comrade.

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Village of Key Biscayne Mayor Mike Davey was ordered to pay $1,500 for civil penalties regarding the violation of four Florida statutes relating to his 2020 mayoral in which he was elected for a second term.

He has neither admitted nor denied any violations, instead entering a Consent Order with the Florida Elections Commission, in which fines and attorneys fees would be the mayors responsibility.

A sworn complaint was filed with the Commission on Sept. 2, 2020 by Key Biscayne resident Inbal Horovitz, who believed that Daveys alleged impropriety regarding an illegal check could have resulted in his uncontested re-election thrown out.

Davey said he was never concerned it would reach that level.

There was no intent to defraud anybody, he said Wednesday, My mistake, my error. I own it.

He said because of the circumstances, it ended up being a double fine.

Davey explained to the Islander News that a check he had sent to the Born Free Pet Shelter, located in the Redlands of South Florida and started by Key Biscayne residents, was never cashed from his prior campaign account.

I was going to the bank (in the drive-thru because of COVID-19-related lobby closures) to open a (new) account, but the bank (thought it was more convenient to just re-open a previously closed account) so I figure I can just wire money in, not realizing ... I had one last check from that account, those temporary checks they give you, and I paid my ($100) entry fee with it.

I had not hired a treasurer, so it ended up being a double fine.

He said he filed a Termination Report, as required by law.

Once I realized (the situation), I got a certified check and gave it to someone else to give to the pet shelter, he said.

Horovitz attempted to file to run for Mayor but missed the June 12, 2020, deadline.

In a June 2020 Letter to the Editor, she claimed the Village denied her the right to run for mayor and said, the Village of Key Biscayne and its leaders sought to suppress candidate applications.

This was a finance screw-up, nothing to do with her claims, Davey said.

Among the allegations in the Florida Elections Commission report:

Respondent certified several campaign treasurers reports as true, correct, and complete when they were not.

Respondent did not dispose of all remaining campaign funds after the 2018 campaign.

Respondent used the same campaign depository for his 2020 campaign.

The surplus balance left in the account qualified as a premature contribution prior to the appointment of a treasurer and campaign depository.

Respondent did not report the surplus funds in his 2020 Termination Report.

Respondent disposed of all remaining campaign funds after the 2020 campaign through a donation to Born Free Pet Shelter. Horovitz, is represented by Miami attorney David Winkler.

Five candidates for Village Council in last years election were also cited by the Commission after violations complaints were filed by Horovitz.

Three other candidates for Village Council office were found to have committed election violations but no complaint was filed with the Commission.

Current Council members Frank Caplan and Allison McCormick were fined $500 and $300, respectively, in civil penalties.

Candidates Matt Bramson ($350), along with Reynaldo Figueredo and Oscar Sardinas ($300), also faced penalties.

Mayor Davey, who was preparing for Wednesday nights first of two budget hearings, said the $1,500 penalty will hurt  for one reason.

The one person who will be angry will be my wife ... and all while doing a volunteer job, too, he said. I wont be my treasurer again. What do they say, A penny wise and a pound foolish?
Ithaca, NY (14850)

Today

Cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Light rain early. Decreasing clouds overnight. Low 56F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
The Finger Lakes COVID Vaccine Task Force is helping to answer questions about vaccination and serves as a point of contact for residents across the Finger Lakes.
Elaine Jardine of the Tioga County Planning Department (seated in the audience) shared with the Spencer Village Board information on New Yorks new cannabis law. All municipalities in New York must vote by Dec. 31 whether to allow a retail cannabis business to open within their boundaries.
Tech giant Google has launched new advancements for Google Workplace to help employees collaborate equally regardless of location, device preference, role or language.

Google Workplace says the new advancements include rollout of spaces in chat, new meeting enhancements, and conferencing hardware to assist organisations bridge the gaps as they navigate new hybrid work environments.

Google Workplace senior director of product management Sanaz Ahari says teams need the ability to flexibly collaborate from anywhere, anytime.

We face the same challenges Ive heard from our customers. How do we stay in sync, make decisions, and build team culture in a hybrid environment?

We help bridge the gaps of virtual and in-person collaboration. The spaces will serve as a dedicated place to share information, advance projects, and where organisations can build communities, she says.

Spaces are central for team collaboration in Google Workspace, and it is now live for all users. It is tightly integrated with tools like calendar, drive, docs, sheets, slides, meet, and tasks, providing a way for people to engage in topic-based discussions, share knowledge and ideas, move projects forward, and build communities and team culture.

Google will add more features in spaces to help teams stay organised, connected and collaborative.

Streamlined navigation: A flexible user interface helps users easily access their inbox, chats, spaces and meetingsall from a single location.

Discoverable spaces: Spaces and their content can be accessed by employees so other people can find and join the conversation. Administrators can also set discoverability as the default for their organisation.

Enhanced search: Allows users to easily find content from within and across spaces, or even discover new spaces to join. Search everything in spaces opens collaboration possibilities.

In-line topic threading: The ability to reply to any message within a space fuels deeper discussions and collaboration.

Robust security and admin features: Tools for content moderation, managing spaces, and establishing the right rules for healthy communication.

As companies return to the office, either working virtually or adopting a hybrid model, its important that participants can connect, create, and collaborate equally from any location.

With this shift in mind, Google is announcing new features:

Working location in Google Calendar: In addition to indicating virtual or physical presence in meeting invites, team members can now set their working location in the calendar, on a regular basis or by segmentable working hours.

Google Meet calling: Meet calling complements Meets more structured, scheduled video meetings and better supports the ebbs and flows of hybrid work by allowing for more connections. Google intends to bring Meet calling to all the natural endpoints in Workspace where employees initiate an ad-hoc call including chats, contact cards, and spaces.

Companion mode in Google Meet: To be launched in November, companion mode will allow users to join meetings from their personal device while leveraging in-room audio and video.

Live-translated captions in Google Meet: Later this year, live-translated captions will be available in English to French, German, Spanish and Portuguese, with many more languages coming in the future.

As people start returning to the office, either on a full-time or part-time basis, meeting hardware in conference rooms and shared spaces will allow users to connect and participate in meetings.

To help this transition, Google is announcing an expanded Google Meet hardware portfolio, equipped with two new all-in-one video conferencing devices, third-party Meet-certified devices, and interoperability with Webex by Cisco:

New all-in-one all video conferencing devices: Google is announcing Series One Board 65 and Series One Desk 27, new all-in-one video conferencing devices to complement the Series One rooms kits.

The Series One Desk 27 is configured for desktops and small shared spaces in the office or at home, whereas the Series One Board 65 is designed for team rooms and shared spaces and has an optional stand for configuration flexibility.

Both devices feature collaboration capabilities with the Jamboard app and can be used as an external display via USB-C.

This also allows users to use the conferencing service of their choice with connection from their laptops.

Google Workplace says the devices were developed in partnership with Avocor, a leader in interactive displays. Pre-orders can be placed with Avocor.

New third party devices: Google has certified the Logitech Rally Bar Mini and Rally Bar to work with Google Meet, providing an all-in-one video bar for small and mid-sized rooms.

Additionally, Appcessori is launching a new mobile device speaker dock, Rayz Rally Pro, that will automatically launch Google Meet for video meetings and provide an audio experience from mobile devices.

Support for interop with devices from Webex by Cisco: Workspace customers may currently use Pexip for Google Meet to join Meet meetings from the range of third-party video conferencing solutions.

Google will support bidirectional interoperability with devices from Webex by Cisco and Google Meet hardware (rolling out later this year). This enables customers to launch a Google Meet meeting on Webex hardware and a Webex meeting on Google Meet hardware.

Google says calling interop between Meet and Webex is supported on the Series One Board 65, Series One Desk 27, and the rest of the Google Meet hardware portfolio, as well as Webex Room Series, Room Kit Series, Desk Series and Board Series.

Navigating hybrid work

Google Workplace says navigating hybrid work will continue to be a journey of learning and adaptation. To help better prepare an organisation or team, Google has released a Hybrid Handbook that details the best practices navigating hybrid work.

To join Google or a Webex meeting, watch the video below:
Ahead of retail availability of Samsung's Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 on Friday 10 September 2021, Samsung says pre-sale numbers are 20% ahead of last year's Note 20, which launched at a similar time.

Less than a week before Apple unveils its new iPhone 13 range, none of which are expected to offer folding screens for at least a couple of years, Samsung has announced its Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip 3 series pre-sales have hit a record, although physical numbers aren't on offer.

What is on offer is a range of pre-order offers for the Z series, which are obviously still available ont he 9th as this is being typed, but which presumably will be unavailable once the 10th rolls around.

Samsung's devices go on sale tomorrow, Friday 10 September, while Apple's new iPhones probably won't be available to pre-order for a least a week, and will probably then take another two weeks to go on sale at retail, giving Samsung and all of the other Android smartphone makers an extra window in which to try and make as many pre-iPhone 13 sales as possible.

Samsung says "total pre-order numbers for the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 are 20% ahead of Galaxy Note 20 last year, which was launched at a similar time in 2020.

"The pre-orders alone for latest two Galaxy Z Series smartphones will see Samsung connect more foldable devices than in the previous 12 months, a clear indication that more Australians are keen to adopt the folding form factor."

Samsung also offered a special limited-edition range of the Galaxy Z Flip3 and Fold3, known as the Thom Browne range. Thom Browne is a celebrated American fashion designer, who now co-owns his brand with Ermenegildo Zegna, with Browne remaining as the Chief Creative Officer.

Samsung says the limited-edition Thom Browne range "is completely sold out ahead of general availability," and that "these devices, coupled with the Galaxy Buds2 and Watch4, as well as S Pen with a Galaxy Z Fold3, retail for $3,199 and $4,699 respectively, further reinforcing Australian consumers appetite for super premium smartphones."

Clearly, despite the lockdowns in Australia, people do have the funds available to make such purchases, especially when people can't take overseas or even domestic holidays, which will presumably help Apple and which has reportedly helped consumer electronics sales over the past year.

But that's not all, with Australians proving to be as colourful in their choices as we are in our global diversity. Samsung states "Australian consumers are also opting for a greater range of personalisation. For the first time, the majority of Samsung smartphones sold during pre-order are in colours other than black.

"With a variety of colours to choose from, 50% of customers have chosen a Phantom Green or Phantom Silver Galaxy Fold3, while two-thirds of the Galaxy Z Flip3 units sold are a colour other than black, including almost 30% being the striking Lavender tone."

Of course, colours on mobile phones and smartphones are nothing new, Nokia was well known for its colourful range of cases in the original digital mobile phone era, and Apple has long had a range of colours for its iPhones - who can forget the iPhone 5c series that really brought colours to the fore, along with the many and varied types of iPods in various colours during the first decade of the 2000s.

Garry McGregor, the VP of Samsung's Mobile Division said: Were immensely proud and encouraged by the pre-sales for the new Galaxy Foldable and wearable range, proving Australians desire for best-in-class mobile innovation continues.

"These results have been achieved in an environment where almost 50% of telco retail stores are closed in Australia, forcing our customers to experience our upcoming products via digital experiences through Samsung and our valued partners. We cannot wait to get these incredible products into the hands of Australians on Friday September 10."

More information on Samsungs new Galaxy devices is here.
Limena will focus on expanding the rapid growth of the company while leading its next phase of development.

"We are excited to welcome Marco as the new CEO of Board International. Marco is a leader who has contributed to the growth and transformation of many technology firms. Over his career, he has earned a reputation as a strategic executive, and we have tremendous confidence he will be an exceptional leader," stated Fredrik Naslund, partner and head of technology & payments, Nordic Capital Advisors and board director at Board International.

"I am honoured to join Board International as the company is positioned at the forefront of a critical and fast-growing market opportunity. The rapid pace of change has created an imperative for companies to reconfigure their operations and an opportunity to transform them. Board's unique capability to unify planning and analytics and bust planning and data silos across the organisation can really play a pivotal role in transforming decision-making processes in every business," said Limena. "I am excited to join a very talented organisation which, with its partner ecosystem, is fully dedicated to helping customers innovate and succeed."

During his international career, Limena has worked in both leading technology corporations and growth-oriented B2B software businesses.

At Microsoft, Limena was vice president of hosting and cloud providers, responsible for the global B2B commercial operations of the company's cloud software and services through the partner ecosystem. Prior to Microsoft, Marco Limena spent 14 years at HP, during which time he held several corporate roles in Palo Alto, including vice president of HP's telecoms solutions business.

Marco has extensive experience working with leading private equity firms in multiple CEO assignments in B2B software businesses, and as a board director in private and public companies.

"Marco is a proven technology leader and will drive the solid execution of Board's strategy to take advantage of the many opportunities ahead, as the relevance of planning and analytics in driving enterprises' performance continues to increase," commented Maurizio Carli, chairman of the company.

About Board

Board is the number one decision-making platform. Board's solutions enable people to have a transformative impact on their business, helping them to intuitively explore and leverage their data in a flexible, all-in-one decision-making platform. By unifying business Intelligence, planning, and predictive analytics, the Board platform allows companies to produce a single, accurate, and complete view of business information, gain actionable insights, and achieve full control of performance across the entire organization. Thanks to Board, more than 3,000 organisations worldwide, including H&M, Toyota, Coca-Cola, KPMG, Puma, and Sony have deployed end-to-end decision-making applications at a fraction of the time and cost associated with traditional solutions. www.board.com
Image by Here and now, unfortunately, ends my journey on Pixabay from Pixabay

A team at security shop SentinelLABS has released detailed research about a threat actor it has dubbed EGoManiac, which operated between 2010 and 2016 and messed with Turkish TV journalists at OdaTV in order to place incriminating documents and malware on their devices.

In the 30-page research post, Juan Andres Guerrero-Saade, the principal threat researcher at SentinelLABS, and Igor Tsemakhovich said the campaign was known as Octopus Brain and the research showed that it was connected to a toolkit called Rad which had been built in 2010 and used until 2015.

The two researchers said there were hardcoded email addresses in some Rad samples to which data from victims' machines was sent; one address had been mentioned in connection with a case against rogue members of the Turkish National Police and executives of a company known as Datalink Analiz. Rad was referred to as HORTUM in papers relating to this case.

Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich said the SentinelLABS team had tracked the affairs of Datalink Analiz and this led to suspicion that EGoManiac used Remote Control System, software from the now defunct Italian infosec firm HackingTeam, for hacking purposes even in 2011.

There are political aspects to the research as well, given that Guerrero-Saade citeson the use of RCS against a Turkish victim in the US.

A detailed, at times laborious, account of the background to this story has been written by the freelance American technology journalist Kim Zetter who was provided the SentinelLABS research before it was released to the public.

In that, Zetter states that Guerrero-Saade wanted to give the research to some other unnamed journalist in order to ensure wider coverage as she [Zetter] now publishes on her own blog on the site Substack. But that individual turned down the story and Zetter was given the 30-page document.

"What we refer to as EGoManiac is a cluster of two notable campaigns starting as early as 2010," the SentinelLABS report says. "The first campaign came to be known in research circles as Octopus Brain, based on the Turkish strings Ahtapot and Bejin left in the malware.

"This original campaign used a combination of publicly available RATs [remote access trojans] (including Turkojan and Bandook) as well as the closed-source Ahtapot, with delivery methods ranging from malicious documents to personal visits by the attackers."

Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich says they initially became aware of the case from Turkish court documents about arrests of journalists at OdaTV.

"Much greater detail came to light thanks to the excellent work of the folks at Arsenal Consulting," they wrote.

"Their forensic investigation not only proved the presence of the malware and the physical interdiction of the victim systems, but also established the attackers access as the definitive source of the incriminating documents on those systems that were then used to justify arrests by the Turkish National Police.

"The journalists were ultimately acquitted by a court in 2017  six years after the attacks."

The data stolen from the journalists at OdaTV was sent to the email address johndown at woxmail dot com, according to reports on Turkish websites in 2016. These reports were about a bid to prosecute rogue police members and executives of Datalink Analiz who were reportedly leaking information about active police operations.

Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich wrote: "The leaks were reportedly used by FETO/Gulenist movement social media accounts to fuel conspiratorial elements in an ongoing power struggle within the country."

The Gulenist movement is a political/religious group led by a US-based Turkish Muslim leader Fethullah Gulen.

Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich said SentinelLABS' research was informed by Zetter's investigation, during the course of which she had obtained a report written by a prosecutor handling the case. Zetter had also written about a woman who was hacked in the US in 2013, apparently with tools from HackingTeam's arsenal.

"The victim suspected that she was targeted by Gulenist elements that had infiltrated the Turkish government," Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich said. "However, HackingTeam continued to assert that it only sells its tools to governments and did not confirm Turkeys status as a customer.

"Now, in the aftermath of Phineas Fishers devastating hack-and-leak operation against HackingTeam, we can independently confirm that Turkey was in fact a customer of HackingTeam at the time  but who exactly was their customer in Turkey?"

Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich admitted that part of the research was built on thin evidence. "The connection between the EGoManiac umbrella and this specific sub-cluster of Hacking Team RCS is built on the admittedly thin strand of the 'Datalink Analiz shell company," he wrote.

RCS was the main tool sold by HackingTeam, which was founded in 2003. It enabled the extraction of files from a targeted device, interception of emails and instant messaging, and also remote activation of the webcam and microphone on a device.

The company suffered a data breach in July 2015 and the use of RCS by repressive regimes around the world was confirmed. HackingTeam was forced to ask its customers to suspend the use of RCS after about 400GB of its data was leaked.

But samples of RCS were found in 2018, with a researcher at the Slovakian security firm ESET saying these had been noticed in 14 countries.

In conclusion, Guerrero-Saade and Tsemakhovich wrote: "The case of EGoManiac is far from straightforward. It involves difficult investigative connections that test the boundaries of our visibility, the efficacy of our research tools, and the limits of purely technical attribution.

"Beyond the technical exercise, its a profile of a threat actor willing to spy on both friend and foe and to use that access to malign and entrap journalists without compunction.

"While this particular intrusion set is outdated, the questions it raises speak to the friction between the unsupervised governmental use of malware and the integrity of public institutions, rule of law, and evidentiary standards. They are more relevant now than ever before."
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Ray Ploof, 61, passed away in his home in Jacksonville, TX, Wednesday, August 25, 2021. He was born in Burlington Vermont August 20, 1960. Ray was a member of Central Baptist Church. He was a talented machinist who worked in maintenance. He was well loved by everyone he met. Left to cherish 




Donate Now As a public service during this pandemic, the Jewish News is providing free, unlimited access to all articles. Jewish News is a nonprofit publication that is owned by the community and relies on community support.
Evan Robinson-Johnson covers issues residents face on a daily basis, from smoky skies to housing insecurity. Originally from New England, he has settled in east Jackson and avoids crowds by rollerblading through the alleyways.
Teton County Reporter

Billy Arnold has covered government and policy since January 2020, sitting through hours of Teton County meetings so readers don't have to. He moonlights as a ski reporter, helps with pandemic coverage and sneaks away to climb when he can.
Since moving to Jackson Hole in 1992, Richard has covered everything from local government and criminal justice to sports and features. He currently concentrates on arts and entertainment, heading up the Scene section.
Mike has reported on the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem's wildlife, wildlands and the agencies that manage them since 2012. A native Minnesotan, he arrived in the West to study environmental journalism at the University of Colorado.
Shirley Kay Hemby, of Pittsburg, KS, passed on September 13, 2021 at Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. She was born on May 8, 1948, in Pittsburg, KS, the daughter of Henry F. Nannie (Brown) Johns. Shirley was a graduate from Pittsburg High. On April 7, 1968, Shirley married Robert Walla
Joplin, MO (64801)

Today

Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 87F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A clear sky. Low around 65F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Opinion Columnist

Chris Powell has worked for the Journal Inquirer since 1967, first as a reporter, then as an editor, and now as a columnist. He was managing editor from 1974 until retiring from that position in 2018.
EXPANDED CHILD TAX CREDIT

ONLINE: Information on the child tax credit can be found at www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/advance-child-tax-credit-payments-in-2021

WHEN: The third round of checks or deposits are expected to be sent next week.

HOW MUCH: The child tax credit went from $2,000 to $3,000 per child for those older than 6 and from $2,000 to $3,600 for children younger than 6. It also raised the age limit from 16 to 17.
Today

A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 84F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.

Tomorrow

A few showers early with overcast skies later in the day. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
For almost two decades, a Gambian newspaper, The Point, has been publishing in its top left corner a question: Who killed Deyda Hydara? Hydara was a founder of the newspaper. And finally, in July 2019, Malick Jatta, a member of the hit-squad operating on the orders of former president Yahya Jammeh, confessed before the Truth Reparation and Reconciliation Commission (TRRC) that he took part in the operation that killed the journalist in December 2004. Since then, The Point changed its headline to: Jammeh killed Deyda Hydara.

On September 6, barely two days after Jammehs Alliance for Patriotic Reorientation and Construction Party (APRC) announced it has signed a coalition agreement with Barrows National Peoples Party (NPP) for the December presidential polls, The Points front page captured the Gambian contradiction: a box still saying Jammeh killed Deyda Hydara and a lead story announcing the controversial alliance that could lead to Jammehs return.

On September 30, the Commissions final report should be submitted to Gambias president and since it should charge those who bear the greatest responsibility for past crimes, it is expected to indict Jammeh. Given the fact that we have known [Jammehs party] anti-TRRC position, I wonder how President Barrow will prosecute his own ally when the TRRC recommends it, Gambian academic Sait Matty Jaw told Justice Info.

Amnesty for Jammeh?

The agreement signed between the party of current president Barrow and Jammehs party was not made public. But APRCs wishes have always been public: Jammehs return and amnesty, with all benefits afforded to a former head of state, is their primary demand.

For the APRC, evidence from 2,600 statements and 393 witness testimonies during the last two and a half years before the countrys Truth Commission is a propaganda scheme designed to defame ex-president Jammeh. In July, the party staged a protest in Banjul where they handed a petition to the countrys justice minister Dawda Jallow for delivery to Barrow. Its content was never made public. But two things were clear: they wanted the government to negate the Commissions recommendations and free a former minister, Yankuba Touray. In July, Touray was sentenced to death for his role in a murder.

When the TRRCs final report is out, let it be put in a wastepaper basket just like the Constitutional Review Commission report, said Fabakary Tombong Jatta after submitting APRCs petition against the Truth Commission to Justice Minister Dawda Jallow on July 26 this year. Jatta became APRCs leader after Jammeh departed for Equatorial Guinea, where he has been living in exile since 2017.

Jammehs party spokesperson Dodou Jah told Justice Info that key among their conditions for supporting the NPP is to ensure the unconditional return of the former president.

The worst betrayal on earth

The evidence lies in the fact that neither [Barrow] nor NPP nor APRC has had the guts to disclose their obnoxious memorendum of understanding publicly since they claimed to have signed it on September 2, activist Madi Jobarteh told Justice Info. Rather, this criminal agreement has been kept away from public view and knowledge because they know it represents the worst betrayal on earth.

When the Truth Commission concludes its work, its founding Act says it must submit its final report to the president, to the United Nations Secretary General and to regional and international organisations. Within six months, Gambias president is expected to issue a position paper stating what he will do. According to its Act, the Truth Commission can grant amnesty to individuals, excluding crimes which form part of a crime against humanity.

If Gambia failed to act, ICC could step in

International law is very clear that governments have a legal duty to investigate and prosecute torture and crimes against humanity, and that these crimes cant be amnestied. The Gambian Supreme Court decision denying immunity to Yankuba Touray suggests that the court might not look favourably on attempts to shield government officials from prosecution, Reed Brody of International Commission of Jurists told Justice Info.

Courts in countries like Argentina, El Salvador and Uganda have refused to allow amnesties, said the American human rights lawyer who is working with Jammehs victims. Any amnesty also wouldnt stop other countries whose citizens were murdered, such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, or indeed any country with jurisdiction, from undertaking an investigation. Nor would it stop the International Criminal Court (ICC) from investigating. The new prosecutor Karim Khan has said that justice must happen for Jammeh-era crimes. So, if Gambia failed to act, the ICC could step in.

TRRC 28.05.21 https://t.co/Ce5v2RLK1i via @YouTube Inspiring, powerful submissions at the end of the hearing stage of the Gambias @TRRC_Gambia . Lead counsel Essa Faals submissions deserve attention. Justice must happen. I agree.  Karim A. A. Khan QC (@KarimKhanQC) May 30, 2021

Popular support for the TRRC

After the announcement of the agreement, several members of Barrows party have expressed their outrage. His personal adviser on strategic communications, Fatou Jaw Manneh, resigned as a result. It is my firm belief that this particular alliance undermines the integrity of your government and jeopardises everything I stood for, said Manneh. He was the second to resign after Alagie Kijera, a prominent NPP supporter in the diaspora.

But it also seems Barrow is misreading the countrys general opinion.

A study done by Afrobarometer, a pan-African, nonpartisan survey research network, said almost three-quarters (73%) of Gambians think perpetrators of crimes and human rights abuses during Jammehs regime should be tried in court, a 5% increase compared to 2018. Furthermore, citizens expected the TRRCs work to lead to a variety of outcomes: national peace, reconciliation, forgiveness, and healing (34%); accurate records of human rights abuses of the previous regime (30%); prosecution of accused perpetrators (28%); and support for victims and their families to overcome long-held pain (16%).

Reconciliation of the leaders, against the victims?

In an effort at damage control, Barrows NPP issued a statement saying it has not signed an agreement with APRC on Jammehs return or amnesty. The party said their alliance comes out of the growing necessity of working together in the best interest of national security, reconciliation, unity and peace for the common good of our diverse people. However, APRCs deputy party leader Ousman Jatta refuted the statement on September 8, emphasising that Jammehs amnesty and return is part of their agreement.

APRC seems to want to reconcile without accepting the atrocities that were linked to Jammeh. But this is different from what the TRRC was tasked to do, reacted Jaw. They (TRRC) were to investigate human rights violations, provide reparation and promote healing and reconciliation. Of course, one can argue on the extent to which the TRRC has delivered it. But to ignore the victim-centred approach and push for reconciliation of leaders shows that instead of pushing against the never again, they are pushing for impunity.

Transitional justice is still on course

Gambias Justice Minister Jallow said his ministry is not privy to whatever agreement NPP may have signed with APRC. As far as I am concerned, it is not treated as a government or a state matter. It has no direct impact on the policy that I am in charge of, Jallow told Justice Info. Transitional justice is still on course. We are anticipating the submission of the report and plans are in progress as to what is to be done when we receive the report.

On September 6, Jallow had a meeting with the Victims Center, a watchdog established by victims of the former dictator to pursue justice for his alleged crimes. The Center issued a statement the same day describing the alliance as shocking and deplorable, raising doubt about the governments commitment to justice. But Jallow said he assured them of the governments commitment to ensuring justice for Jammeh-era crimes.

Those who are recommended for prosecution, of course, we will work towards prosecuting them until the government decides otherwise, said Jallow.

Commissions lead counsel runs for presidency

This comes after another controversial move by the Truth Commissions lead counsel, Essa Faal. Shot to fame during his time at the Commission, Faal announced his bid for presidency on August 26. I will make it a crusade to ensure justice for the victims. I will ensure that all the victims get the reparations they need and the recognition they deserve. I will not lead a government that will put it (justice) under the carpet, he declared at the launch of his race.

Although Barrows alliance with Jammeh could consolidate both Faals initiative and his perception as a national hero for part of the Gambian population, it is too early to see whether he could translate that to votes.
On September 8, 2021, the California Department of Marijuana Control (DCC) issued a proposed emergency cannabis RegulationThese emergency regulations unified the previous regulations transplanted from the first three agencies into a combined set, and they modified some of the rules and added new ones. DCC also released a revised set of Disciplinary Guidelines Follow the emergency rules.

In terms of procedures, DCC sent an email to stakeholders stating:

DCC will submit the emergency package to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) after issuing the required five working days notice to the public. The five-calendar-day public comment period will begin when OAL publishes the proposed regulation under review on its website: https://oal.ca.gov/.

 If approved, the proposed regulations will take effect at the end of September. After the emergency rulemaking process is completed, it is expected that more work will be carried out in the coming months to further improve the regulation of commercial cannabis activities.

We plan to write a lot of articles about these emergency rules, but want to highlight some key things in this initial article to quickly determine their effectiveness:

Connection site planting license stacking restrictions

Rule 15001.1 permits the issuance of temporary planting permits as long as:

Issuing licenses will not result in commercial cannabis companies holding multiple planting licenses in consecutive, connected locations, with a total canopy of more than 1 acre for outdoor planting, or 22,000 square feet for mixed lighting or indoor planting, if applied Is on or after January 1, 2022.

The rule goes on to say: For the purposes of this section, if they are connected, touching or adjacent, the sites will be considered continuous. Therefore, it is clear that the aggregation of multiple planting permits throughout the connected site will be restricted , But its not clear how DCC will deal with continuous real estate pack Each has a permitted place, but these places do not necessarily touch each other. We dont know yet, but the answer seems to be that this practice may not be completely banned.

Owner/FIH issues

DCC is changing the way it determines who constitutes the owner or financial interest holder (FIH) of a cannabis business. Here are some key points:

Previously, the owner rule stipulated that the person who owned at least 20% of the total ownership interest was the owner. The term aggregate is not defined. DCC now defines total as total ownership interest held by the entity. For example, an individual who owns 50% of an entity that owns 50% of the cannabis business will have a 25% total ownership interest in the cannabis business. This means that cannabis companies with physical ownership need to perform mathematical calculations to determine the exact total percentage. For large companies or public companies, this can be a daunting task.

Anyone who has the right to provide strategic guidance and oversight for the overall operation of the commercial cannabis business is now the owner. This is not much different from the previously written rules, especially because the DCCs example of reaching this threshold is CEO, President or their equivalent positions, or senior staff, directors, vice presidents, general managers, or their equal.

DCC now considers those who have the authority to execute contracts on behalf of the commercial cannabis business as owners. Frankly, this is too much. For example, any lower-level salesperson who can execute a contract (such as a sales invoice) can now be considered the owner. If this rule persists, it will make compliance in this area a huge problem.

In the case of entity ownership, anyone related to the owner of the entity managing the actual licensees business is now the owner of the licensees business. Again, this is not much different from the previous rules, but it is interesting to see that DCC fully illustrates this point.

DCC has the right to determine a person as the owner on a case-by-case basis, and may require licensees to request disclosure of such persons.

For FIH, the rule previously defined the provision of any type of loan or investment to cannabis companies to create economic benefits. Now, DCC removes the concept of investment, but does state that anyone who is entitled to at least 10% of corporate profits is FIH.

Businesses that contract cannabis companies to grow, manufacture, package, or label cannabis under their brand names are considered FIHs. This is also a bit like the previous land, but its nice to see the final details on the desktop to avoid a lot of confusion for the licensee. This will provide a lot of clarity for intellectual property licensing transactions.

Previously, anyone or any entity holding less than 5% of the shares of a listed company was not considered FIH.Now, this number is for the public and private company.

Trade samples

The proposed regulations will eventually allow licensees to provide cannabis products to each other and allow licensees to provide cannabis products to their employees for sampling purposes to help make purchase decisions. Trade samples still need to be inserted into METRC and need to be designated as trade samples and sold in the final form. There are many restrictions and rules that apply to trade samples, which the licensee needs to study carefully.

__

Again, this is a major development, and we will update the Canna Law Blog in the coming weeks to include more content from these proposed emergency regulations, so stay tuned.
Capital case

go through Amy How





10:47 p.m.

The Supreme Court agreed to postpone the execution of John Ramirez, who was originally scheduled to die in Texas on Wednesday night. The last-minute breathing time will allow the judges to fully consider Ramirezs request to allow his pastor to make physical contact with Ramirez and hear prayers in the execution room during Ramirezs execution.

Ramirez Urgent application This is the latest in a series of shadow file requests involving spiritual consultants who executed the death penalty in the past two years.But the judges are now ready to weigh the prisoners right to be accompanied by a spiritual counselor at the last minute more clearly: Suspend the execution of Ramirezs brief order, The court agreed to hear Ramirezs appeal against his regular case file this fall.

Ramirez was sentenced to death for the murder of Pablo Castro, a convenience store clerk in 2004. He asked his Baptist priest Dana Moore to put his hand on Ramirezs body, Ramirez prayed loudly when he was executed. After Texas refused to approve the request, Ramirez went to the Federal Court in August.Last week, the District Court rejected Ramirezs application to postpone the execution of the death penalty, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit also rejected it. Refused He asked for intervention.

The four previous cases in court all focused on the question of whether the spiritual master can appear in the execution room. In February 2019, the court Alabama allowed The country refused to allow Ray to execute the Muslim man Dominic Ray after having an imam by his side in the execution room, even though the country at the time allowed a Christian priest in the room. The court stated in its brief order that Ray only sought relief 10 days before the scheduled execution.

One month later, the court Ban Texas The execution of a Buddhist prisoner Patrick Murphy is prohibited unless he is allowed to have a Buddhist priest by his side. In agreeing to the decision to prevent Murphys execution, Judge Brett Kavanaugh emphasized that according to the national policy in force at the time, Muslim and Christian prisoners were allowed to have spiritual counselors with them in the execution room, but prisoners of other faiths- Like Murphy-no. Kavanaugh admitted that although Texas may have good reasons to restrict access to the execution room, the solution is to exclude all spiritual advisors from the execution room, rather than distinguishing prisoners based on religious beliefs.

After the court issued an order in Murphys case, Texas initially adopted a new policy to exclude all spiritual advisors from the execution chamber. This led Ruben Gutierrez, a Catholic prisoner, to the Federal Court to challenge the new policy. In June 2020, the Supreme Court Execution of Gutierrez Suspending execution and instructing the district court to determine whether allowing the prisoner to choose his spiritual mentor would endanger the safety of the execution. In January 2021, after the District Court reached a disagreement, the Supreme Court Send Gutierrezs case back to the lower court Let them re-examine the case based on these findings. The state of Texas later revised its policy again to allow mental counselors in the execution room.

Finally, in February 2021, the court Ban Alabama Execution of Willie Smith III unless it allows him to have his pastor by his side in the execution room.

Ramirezs case involves a slightly different question: what kind of help can (and cannot) the mental counselor provide during the execution. Ramirez came to the Supreme Court on Tuesday and asked the judge to suspend his execution and review his case on the merits. He emphasized that the application he submitted was not to postpone the execution of the death penalty because he first raised the question of a spiritual counselor a year ago. Ramirez believes that the states refusal to allow Moore to touch him and pray loudly is a violation of his constitutional rights and federal laws that guarantee prisoners religious rights. In accordance with Texas policy, Ramirez emphasized in his reply briefing on Wednesday that the execution room would be a godless vacuum and Moore was no different from potted plants.

The State of Texas countered that Ramirez did not follow the procedures required by the Federal Prison Litigation Reform Act before filing the lawsuit-specifically, he should ask prison officials to allow Moore to pray loudly before filing the lawsuit. In any case, Texas went on to say that Ramirez could not win because he had to do more than just claim that Moores physical contact and vocal prayers were necessary to his faith tradition during the execution. The state argued that Ramirez must also show that Texas policies placed a heavy burden on his religious activities. But Texas did not force Ramirez to do anything against his religious beliefs, the state insisted. It just refuses to meet all his religious needs, which is not a heavy burden. Texas warned that if the Supreme Court approves Ramirezs request, the federal court will eventually have to micro-manage all the details of future executions.

In an order issued shortly before 10pm Eastern Time, the judges agreed to suspend Ramirezs execution and hear his appeal on the merits. The court stated that it should expedite the trial of the case and set the oral argument in October or November. There were no public objections to Wednesdays order.

This article is Originally published in Howe on the Court.
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The European economy performs well: the second quarter Growth data Strong performance in almost every EU country, and Real-time indicators Shows that the high Covid-19 vaccination rate makes the recovery sustainable.

This is good news, but in a sense, it is not surprising. At this stage of the pandemic, growth depends on the overall dynamics of macroeconomic shocks and fiscal and monetary policy stimulus. After the sharp decline, a strong rebound is expected. What happens next will depend more on the quality of detailed economic policies. Most importantly, the national recovery and resilience plans that have been developed by countries are funded by the following institutions: Unprecedented EU collective borrowing.

However, judging these plans is extremely difficult for a variety of reasons. One is that it is too early: it has not even been approved in its entirety. Another reason is that they are too long, too detailed, and too technical for anyone to read voluntarily, let alone the complete 27 articles. It is a pity that finance officials who had to write these documents, EU officials who had to review them, and financial analysts who paid to read them, so that their customers would not have to read them.

Nevertheless, it is surprising that, so far, these plans have been largely praised by independent observers. One reason-thanks to the European Commission, which demands to stick to its priorities-is that they are investing heavily in the right areas, such as the physical and digital infrastructure needed for an interconnected, decarbonized economy. The other is that they have clear goals that must be reached to achieve free currency. Third, the conditions include long-term recommended structural reforms, which the committee can now use big carrots to encourage.

So far, the most important thing is a nationwide recovery and rehabilitation plan, which is the Italian plan. Whether Italy can use the post-pandemic recovery to get rid of its 20-year stagnation forever is a key question for Europes future. It will determine whether the single market is applicable to all regions of Europe. If or when doubts about the survival of the single currency are temporarily dissipated, it will shape the attitude towards the euro.

Most importantly, Italys perception of European recovery funds is critical to whether they will be judged as successful, and therefore critical to the prospect of permanent enhancement of borrowing and spending within the EU.

So its worth paying attention to the OECDs new Italian Economic Survey. It gives an overall very optimistic assessment of the Italian plan. (For those who are pressed for time, there is a Short blog post.) The promised investment and structural reformstargeting well-known weaknesses in public management and competitioncan increase the economy by nearly 6% by 2030.

The absolute number of potential investments is important. When the plan was first announced, Jack Allen-Reynolds of Capital Economics highlight Italys recovery and recovery plans share of the Italian economy is actually larger than that of President Joe Bidens U.S. employment plan (both are aimed at similar numbers and green investments), and will be in a slightly shorter time. Internal spending, providing a greater financial blow.

This is a major change as usual. The OECD pointed out that investment in the Italian economy is less than most other member states. It also shows the possibilities when the investment occurs. Although Italys productivity growth has long been the lowest among its peers, in the years before the pandemic, its manufacturing productivity growth actually caught up with the OECD averagemanufacturing was stagnant investment A department, especially in intellectual property. However, in the service industry, investment is declining and productivity growth is weak.

As reported by the OECD, Italys economic deficiencies are well-known and, in a sense, can be directly improved (not related to the euro): poor bureaucracy, bankruptcy resolution and judicial procedures; lack of investment; low education level Labor; insufficient digitization; poor capital allocation in banks; and high labor tax wedge. All of these can be solvedtechnical policy challenges are completely surmountable. Repair them, the economic return should be great. What has been hindering is politics. But the current Italian government knows what needs to be done and seems to be determined to do it. It has sufficient financial resources to pave the way for reforms, and under the leadership of Mario Draghi, there is a prime minister with great support.

All this means that Italys growth miracle is coming, and Italy has the best chance of achieving it in its history. Of course, opportunities are not guaranteed, and opportunities will not last long. By seizing it, Italy can make up for most of the stagnation of the past two decades. Missing it, the result may be the last chance to escape a permanent recession. For Italy and Europe, the stakes cannot be higher.

Other readability

Henrietta Moore of University College London Report on Local Prosperity Index Developed in the borough of East London after the Olympics to understand the true meaning of rebuild better. In order to heal their divided country, [Joe Biden and Boris Johnson] They need to replace their unequal economy with a sense of belonging. 

Learn from Canada how to save climate politics from the culture war, I think Carbon tax and dividend policy column.

New Economics Foundation proposal The UK can use its existing state-owned financial institutions to fund the infrastructure investments needed to achieve net zero carbon emissions.

Digital news
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A group of hawks EU finance ministers are preparing to take a hard line in negotiations to change EU budget rules after the pandemic, insisting that any reforms must not jeopardize fiscal sustainability or weaken debt reduction goals.

A document supported by the finance ministers of eight countries including Austria, the Netherlands, Denmark and the Czech Republic announced their willingness to discuss improving the EUs stability and growth pact.

But they warned that member states must recommit to sound public finances and cut public debt that surged during the Covid-19 crisis.

The eight ministers sent a clear signal to the European Commission to restart negotiations on the rules. When it comes to any changes, quality is more important than speed.

After the deficits and debts of member states broke out during the pandemic, the document was an early intervention in the politically controversial debate about whether and how the EU should reform its complex fiscal framework. In response, the EU suspended its usual spending rules last year, giving member states more fiscal firepower to deal with the crisis.

The signatories of the document include some of the most fiscally conservative countries in the European Union. This language reflects their deep doubts about other countries (mainly southern European countries) calling for more lenient fiscal systems.

In their paper, the eight ministers stated that they would like to see the fiscal rules reapply without change after the suspension ends (possibly in early 2023).

Sustainable public finances create confidence and fiscal space for political priorities and to deal with future crises and challenges, the paper said. Reducing the excessive debt ratio is still a common goal.

Nevertheless, the document reflects the recognition of some countries that it is now inevitable to discuss whether certain aspects of the rules should be reconsidered. The EUs public debt ratio is expected to rise by 15 percentage points in just two years, reaching 94% of GDP by 2021.

Many capitals are determined to offset any changes in the rules by implementing stricter and more consistent enforcement.

The document was published at the meeting of finance ministers in Slovenia on Friday and Saturday, and informal discussions on the subject are expected at that time.

In view of the destruction of public finances during the crisis and the need for public investment, policymakers including EU Economic Commissioner Paolo Gentiloni (Paolo Gentiloni) have been urging for the Stability and Growth Pact (Stability and Growth Pact) Carry out far-reaching legislative reforms.

Ideas proposed by economists and politicians include separating green project investment from deficit constraints.

Eight ministers stated that SGP should be improved, but the focus is on simplifying the system to make it more transparent and consistent.

They wrote that it is vital that the new proposal does not jeopardize the fiscal sustainability of member states, the Eurozone, or the entire Union.

The document was also supported by the finance ministers of Latvia, Slovakia, Sweden and Finland. Absent are the largest member states of the European Union-Germany, France, Italy and Spain.
Every state has some form of public record law. Most of us have probably heard of Freedom of Information Operation (FOIA), which is the Federal Open Records Act. According to the Supreme Court of the United States, the purpose of the Freedom of Information Act is to ensure that citizens are informed, which is vital to the operation of a democratic society. It is necessary to check corruption and hold the governor accountable to the governed. The purpose of the State Open Records Act is also not exception. In addition to the important role of checking corruption and holding government officials accountable, the open records law can also serve other purposes.

This article discusses how licensees and businesses participating in the Oregon recreational marijuana marketand often douse the Oregon Public Records Act. The Oregon Public Records Act (Act), ORS 192.001 and the following regulations give everyone the right to inspect the public records of public agencies, unless specific exemptions apply. (The term everyone also includes business entities and partnerships).

The Act applies to the Oregon Alcohol and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) because it is a public agency that maintains non-exempt public records. (Side note: Oregon Liquor Control Board recent Change control to marijuana; we are very happy about it).

The bill is fairly easy to understand. Institutions like OLCC are obliged to provide non-exempt records after receiving a written request. The agency must respond within five working days of receiving the written request to confirm receipt. The bill establishes a baseline for public agencies to complete the response no later than 15 working days after receiving the request. To be sure, there are exceptions to the 15-day period, but these exceptions are very narrow, and public agencies have the responsibility to prove the applicability of the exceptions. The general idea is that the organization must complete its response as quickly as possible without unreasonable delay.

Our company has been involved in cannabis work for many years before OLCC even participated. We have written a lot about the OLCC and its rules governing the licensing of cannabis producers, processors, and retailers in Oregon. (Look here, here, here, here with here Just to name a few).

When representing cannabis companies, we often require OLCC to provide records under the Act. We do this for many reasons, and each of them can prove that strong public records laws are vital to the Oregon cannabis market.

First  We make public record requests on behalf of clients who find themselves in the wrong ending OLCC enforcement actionAs ordinary readers know, one of OLCCs many jobs is to enforce the laws and administrative rules governing the recreational marijuana market in Oregon.

When OLCC believes that the licensee is engaged in a violation of the rules, it will issue an allegation document listing the suspected violation and the proposed sanctions. The fee file itself is usually an understatement, focusing on technical management language.

Licensees who receive a notice of proposed cancellation of a license (or a lower fee) need to understand what caused OLCC to issue a fee file, who is involved, and what OLCC believes has happened. The public record request is a foolproof way for OLCC to disclose the documents that are the basis of the fee file.

Although the OLCC case introducer usually provides a basic report to the lawyer informally, the public record request imposes a legal obligation on OLCC to provide the requested information.When the licensee challenges the proposed sanctions and thus begins the administrative hearing process, the public record request is an almost foolproof document discover The licensee must seek tools for recording.

When the document requested by the licensee exceeds the content of the basic report, the requirements under the Act are particularly important. Relevant documents may include internal OLCC emails, the results of actions by licensees in similar situations, or internal OLCC policies and procedures.

In short, the ability to request and obtain public records in a timely manner is an important part of resisting law enforcement actions. .. Or realize that reconciliation is the only real option.

second, We often make public record requests to potential purchasers of licensed cannabis companies. Whether the buyer is entering the market for the first time or a mature multi-state operator looking to increase its holdings in Oregon, every M&A transaction involves (or at least should) conduct some form of investigation on the seller. Griffin Thorne I have been writing articles about cannabis M&A transactions recently. (Look here, here, here, here, here, with here  To name a few).

Part of any (good) transaction is Due diligence period. Although the seller may indicate to the buyer that they have a good reputation with OLCC and have nothing to worry about, this is not always the case. We have seen the transaction break down after a few months of work because either the seller was not completely honest or, in a few cases, was unaware of the adverse actions of OLCC.

The public record request is an important due diligence tool. Potential buyers can learn about the sellers compliance history, whether OLCC has filed any allegations of violations to the seller and the disposition of these actions, and whether OLCC has any pending investigations or litigation procedures involving the seller. In this regard, public record requests are a powerful option. Buyers can not only understand any potential problems with OLCC, but also understand what kind of people they are dealing with on the other side.

third, We occasionally make public record requests for reasons other than law enforcement procedures or business sales. The reasons varysometimes they involve civil litigation in which OLCC is not a partyI will not go into the details. However, having a tool to collect accurate information about specific licensees or other aspects of the Oregon cannabis industry is very helpful for cannabis companies and lawyers. Frankly speaking, for the public.

The point here is that the Oregon Public Records Act serves the public in many ways.

The Oregon legislature may be stingy with OLCCa surprising treatment for an agency responsible for multimillion-dollar state revenue. What the legislature must be aware of is that funding the OLCC makes it better for Oregon cannabis and better for Oregonians. We urge the Oregon State Legislature to provide OLCC with the funds and tools needed to comply with the Act, and OLCC has been working hard to resolve these issues recently.
Sign up for myFT Daily Digest and be the first to learn about the Covid-19 vaccine news.

In recent weeks, Covid-19 has brought new unease to American investors. Not only is the Delta variant spreading, but vaccine hesitation still plagues parts of the country. elsewhere, focus on It is being discussed whether Joe Bidens administration can actually launch boosters this fall as promised.

This is worrying. But when investors scrutinize the White Houses vaccine plan, they should also pay attention to another set of vaccine launch issues: those that plague low-income countries.

Eighteen months after the pandemic, there was a gap in vaccination rates. In most of Europe and North America, About two-thirds of the population are now vaccinated (Although less in the United States). Japan and India assassinated half and one-eighth of their population respectively.

But in most African countries, less than one-tenth of the population is vaccinated-in some countries, Less than 1%This partly reflects the well-known inequality of vaccine supply (international agencies Kovacs Efforts are being made to resolve, although the results have been mixed). However, there is another problem that is often overlooked: insufficient distribution logistics.

Take South Sudan as an example. This poor country has recently been  long overdue  received some vaccinations. However, its distribution infrastructure is so weak that the cost of stabbing a person (or last mile delivery) from the tarmac to the arm is as high as $22 per person, excluding the purchase price of the vaccine. According to the calculation of Charity CYes.

Care noted that this is six times higher than the current estimated global vaccine delivery cost. One of the cruel ironies of Covid-19 is that the countries least able to pay for distribution costs are facing some of the highest price tags.

This is having practical consequences. Care said about 132,000 doses of vaccine had to be destroyed or returned in South Sudan this summer because they could not be distributed. The situation is getting better now-one touch. But the countrys jab rate is still well below 1%.

For those who are waiting on the ground, this is a tragedy. But the consequences can be wide-ranging.In the past 18 months, scientists have realized that one of the most annoying aspects of Covid-19 is that it is a transfiguration, as the famous American medical researcher William Haseltine put it Pointed out In his book Variants.

Therefore, the longer the unvaccinated population stays in the world, the greater the risk of the emergence and spread of new mutations. Solving the problem of tarmac to armed is not only about ethics and philanthropy; it is also a problem of global self-defense.

Can it be done? maybe. In the case of South Sudan, Care calculated that it would need US$126 million to resolve key distribution issues. Therefore, it calls on wealthy governments to fill this loophole with grants, and calls on global companies to provide logistical support, such as the provision of transportation services.

However, well-intentioned but fragmented appeals for charity are not the real answer. Western and non-Western governments should give priority to formulating a coordinated global plan to solve the problem of underfunded health infrastructure.

Respected

As it happens, there is a potential roadmap floating for this. Earlier this year, the G20 asked Shan Daman, former Secretary of Finance of Singapore, Lawrence Summers, former Secretary of Finance of the United States, and Ngozio Concho-Iveira, the head of the World Trade Organization, to advise on how to improve global pandemic preparedness.

and report, It was released this summer and contains many very smart ideas. The trio called on G20 countries to invest at least US$75 billion in the next five years to address the weak links of epidemic prevention and medical infrastructure around the world. They also called on the G20 to establish a Global Health Threat Committee to coordinate pandemic responses in the same way as the Financial Stability Boards regulatory measures in response to the 2008 financial crisis. This includes not only the Minister of Health, but also financial officials-this move reflects the growing recognition that medicine (or vaccines) alone cannot defeat a pandemic. Infrastructure investment is also crucial.

These proposals will be submitted to the G20 next month for adoption. But it is not clear that they will fly. Someone told me that this was partly because the idea of ??creating a new coordinating body caused an uproar in some parts of the World Health Organization. But this is also because the price of 75 billion US dollars looks terrible to some G20 countries.

Given that most Western governments face fiscal austerity (and the pressure of voters to focus on domestic issues), this may be understandable.But the proposed expenditure is Trillions of dollars worth of losses Covid-19 has already had an impact on the global economy.Or, as the report points out: The cost [of pandemics] The government budget alone is equivalent to 300 times the total annual additional expenditure we propose, and 700 times the annual additional international investment. 

Therefore, spending 75 billion US dollars is an act of financial responsibility, the three concluded-it is also a scientific and ethical priority. If the G20 does not take action next month, rich countries will take their own humiliation. Investors should pay attention.

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Lawrence Memorial Hospital and the University of Kansas Health System will now require all staff and volunteers, including students, to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
Lawrence Police identified the victim of a shooting that occurred Wednesday night. No arrests have been made in the case.
A male was shot and killed Wednesday night on the 1500 block of Kentucky St. in Lawrence. The shooter has not yet been found. This is a UDK file photo.
The expansive rules mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly. Workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.
Fans would get to see the staff of Doldam medical center, including the famous Dr. Kim, after a representative confirms "Dr. Romantic" season 3.

In a report cited by a local outlet, an official from the drama announced that the beloved medical K-drama is set to return for another season.

Moreover, veteran actor Han Seok Kyu, who played the role of Dr. Boo Yong Joo, a.k.a Kim Sa Bu, and Ahn Hyo Seop, who took the character of Seo Woo Jin, will reprise their roles.

Unfortunately, the veteran actor and the "Lovers of the Red Sky" star are the only ones who are confirmed to appear in the upcoming season; however, the public is keeping their hopes up that they would get to see familiar faces in season 3.

Dr. Romantic Season 3 Release Date and What to Expect

According to the outlet, the much-awaited sequel is helmed by PD Yoo In Shik, who also directed seasons 1 and 2, as well as "Mrs. Cop 2" and "Vagabond."

As for the anticipated release date, "Dr. Romantic" season 3 is slated to broadcast sometime in winter of 2022, giving the fans another reason to look forward to the year.

With this, viewers could expect another round of heart stopping moments between the patient and the staff of Doldam medical center including how Teacher Kim help the passionate and young doctors at the shabby hospital.

To recall, the medical drama's season one wrapped up with a successful achievement after the "Dr. Romantic 1" finale ended with over 20 percent viewership rating.

The first season features Han Seok Gyu alongside "Hospital Playlist" star Yoo Yeon Seok as Dr. Kang Dong Joo and Seo Hyun Jin as the hard-working Dr. Yoon Seo Jung.

Meanwhile, the second season concluded with the highest viewership rating of 27.1 percent, showing an overwhelming response from the audience.

Amid the confirmation regarding the upcoming sequel, Ahn Hyo Seop is currently starring in the historical fantasy drama "Lovers of the Red Sky" as the blind astrologer Ha Ram, opposite Kim Yoo Jung.

As for the award-winning Han Seok Kyu, he is set to appear in the forthcoming mystery crime K-drama "When the Day Breaks," portraying a role of a forensic pathologist with Jung Yu Mi.

Lee Sung Kyung and Ahn Hyo Seop Recall their Experience in 'Dr. Romantic 2'

In her February 2021 interview with Star News, Lee Sung Kyung talks about her experience filming the medical K-drama.

She mentioned that she was "very grateful and happy" for landing the drama, adding that she learned a lot in "Dr. Romantic 2."

The 31-year-old actress took on the role of the wealthy and talented rookie doctor Cha Eun Jae and managed to took home the best actor award at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards together with co-star Ahn Hyo Seop.

She also mentioned the friendship they built, thanks to the medical K-drama.

The same goes for the 26-year-old actor who lauded his deep connection with his co-stars, especially to Lee Sung Kyung, Yang Se Jong, who played Do In Bum, Kim Min Jae, and Bora.

"This is the first team I've continued to have such a deep friendship with."

KDramastars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
SF9 member Rowoon challenges himself with a new role in the forthcoming historical drama series "The King's Affection" (also referred to as "Affection" or "Yeonmo") with "Hello, My Twenties!" actress Park Eun Bin.

He will return to the small screen after starring in the 2021 JTBC workplace romance drama "She Would Never Know".

SF9 Rowoon Transforms Into a Handsome Manager in 'The King's Affection'

On September 9, broadcast company KBS released the second set of stills for its forthcoming historical romance drama "The King's Affection" with SF9 Rowoon and Park Eun Bin.

While Park Eun Bin will portray a crown prince with hidden and unspeakable secrets, SF9 Rowoon will take on the role of Jeong Ji Woon, the teacher and manager of the crown prince Lee Hwi (Park Eun Bin).

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: SF9's Rowoon Talks About His Upcoming Historical Drama 'Yeonmo' + Reveals Truth About His Height

In the newly released stills, Rowoon completely transformed into general manager Jeong Ji Woon. He is a man with many talents and his fiery eyes are filled with passion.

But even though he has responsibilities as the crown prince's manager, he also makes sure that he enjoys his life to the fullest. At night, he visits the mountains and takes in all the positivity that nature has to offer.

Jeong Ji Woon Meets Crown Prince Lee Hwi

The fateful encounter and meeting of Jeong Ji Woon and Lee Hwi mark the beginning of their royal romance.

The two met each other when Jeong Ji Woon received an order to go to the King's palace, where he met the crown prince.

As if a memory was triggered, he then remembered his first love, whom he sees in Lee Hwi.

Curiosity and anticipation are heightened as to what kind of love story SF9 Rowoon and Park Eun Bin will show this time as they work together in a historical drama for the first time.

The "The King's Affection" production team shared their thoughts on Rowoon and his acting performance. They said, "Rowoon effortlessly is a great actor. He also acts as the mood maker in the filming set, by perfectly embodying the character of the warmhearted Jeong Ji Woon. Please pay attention to his portrayal in the upcoming drama."

'The King's Affection' Pre-Production and Premiere

The forthcoming historical romance-drama "The King's Affection" is helmed by filmmaker Song Hyun Wook and written by screenwriter Han Hee Jung.

It follows the story of an abandoned twin named Lee Hwi due to her gender, who will do anything to become King.

Aside from the duo, actors Nam Yoon Su, Choi Byung Chan, and Bae Yoon Kyung are also part of the series.

The masterpiece is produced by Monster Union and distributed by broadcasting company KBS2, the home of great and remarkable South Korean dramas "Love in the Moonlight," "Oh My Venus," and "Are You Human Too?".

"The King's Affection" will take on the Monday and Tuesday drama time slot starting in October.

It is slated to air on October 11 at 9:30 p.m. KST on KBS2.

Follow KDramastars for more Kdrama, KMovie, and celebrity news updates!

KDramastars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
LAKEVIEW, Ore. 

UPDATE: Fire growth on the Cougar Peak Fire is "substantial" Thursday afternoon as the fire pushes to the north and northeast, fire officials said on Thursday, though a more accurate accounting of its growth likely will not come until later Thursday night or Friday morning.

Firefighters and aircraft have been working to attack the south and southeastern flanks of the fire, officials said. Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs) have been dropping retardant on these areas while helicopters deliver bucket drops to help protect homes and cabins in the area.

A hotshot crew from Prinevile is also conducting burnout operations along lower Cottonwood Road to the 28 Road to help secure new dozer lines along the fire's flank.

As evacuations from the Cougar Peak Fire are likely to spread, a Red Cross shelter has been established at the Lakeview Church of Latter-Day Saints on 17880 Highway 395.

(Updated 9/9/21 at 5:40 p.m.)

INITIAL REPORT: The Cougar Peak Fire northwest of Lakeview continued to grow unabated on Wednesday, surging to an estimated 25,000 acres with no containment as of Thursday morning.

The fire was first reported on Tuesday afternoon, growing quickly among elevated winds and dry conditions. It is located about 15 miles to the northwest of Lakeview, burning primarily to the northeast within the Lakeview Ranger District of the Fremont-Winema National Forest and on Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) protected lands

Fire officials said that the fire remained highly active on Wednesday, with the flames running, torching, and spotting amid mixed conifer and brush.

"The fire made a major push to the north and east burning into the Little and Big Baldy area," officials said. "Resources worked into the night on the south flank constructing dozer line from the valley floor near Cox Creek to Forest Road 28 and from Lower Cottonwood to Forest Road 28. Dozer line on the west flank held."

The South Central Oregon Fire Management Partnership (SCOFMP) says that numerous wildland firefighting resources are already attacking the fire, with more requested.

A SCOFMP Type 3 Incident Management Team has been managing the fire thus far, but two outside command teams will now be taking control of the firefight. Pacific Northwest Incident Management Team 8, a Type 2 Team, arrived in the area on Wednesday and took over joint command Thursday morning with the Oregon State Fire Marshals Blue Team.

OSFM structural taskforces from Clatsop, Lane, Linn, Yamhill, Clackamas and Marion counties have also arrived at the scene.

There is a Red Flag Warning in effect from 1 p.m. Thursday to 9 a.m. Friday for strong, gusty wind with low relative humidity and abundant lightning on dry fuels. A Fire Weather Watch in effect from Friday morning through Friday afternoon for the risk of abundant lightning on dry fuels.

Drivers are advised to use caution in the area due to firefighter traffic and the possibility of low visibility from the smoke. Area residents and visitors are also asked to avoid traveling on Forest Roads near the Cougar Peak Fire, including Forest Road 28 and Forest Road 3870, also known as Cottonwood Road.

Recreation sites in the area are closed, including Upper Cottonwood Campground and Cottonwood Creek Trailhead. This includes a Level 3 "GO" evacuation order for Lower Cottonwood Road north to Forest Road 3870-041, and a Level 1 "Get ready" notice for Forest Road 28, from the Forest Boundary northwest to Cox Flat.

"Fire danger remains 'Extreme' in Lake and Klamath counties," SCOFMP said. "Extremely dry fuels and seasonal winds can make even a small spark rapidly grow into a large wildfire. These fires can be destructive, resulting in evacuations, damage to property and natural resources, and affects public and firefighter safety."
ASHLAND, Ore.  The Ashland Police Department says that a Hornbrook, California man is in jail after a series of erratic incidents that started in Ashland on Tuesday.

Around 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Ashland Police said that a man later identified as 34-year-old Thomas Lee Ackley of Hornbrook approached another man in the parking lot of Safeway. Without warning, the agency said, Ackley attempted to stab the man with a knife, though he missed.

Ackley reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle as APD officers responded. The officers caught up with him a short time later, but Ackley allegedly fled to I-5 southbound Exit 11, where he then tried to drive northbound against the flow of traffic.

"Realizing the extreme danger this would pose to other drivers an Ashland police officer used his patrol car to ram the suspect vehicle, not allowing it to continue northbound," Ashland Police said in a statement. "The suspect vehicle exited the freeway via an adjacent nearby country road and officers could not locate it further."

According to the agency, Ackley was not finished with the spree. While officers were looking for his vehicle, Ackley allegedly went onto nearby private property and stole a pickup truck. As he stole the truck, Ackley also tried to run over the vehicle's owner, Ashland Police said.

Around 7 a.m. on Wednesday, deputies with the Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office arrested Ackley in California. He currently remains in the Siskiyou County Jail pending charges there and awaiting extradition to Oregon.

In Jackson County, Ackley faces two counts of Robbery in the First Degree, Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, two counts of Menacing, two counts of Attempt to Elude in a Vehicle, Attempt to Elude on Foot, Unlawful Use of a Motor Vehicle, three counts of Reckless Endangering, two counts of Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Criminal Mischief in the Second Degree, Reckless Driving, and Theft in the First Degree.
A woman pays her respects at a roadblock in Portapique, N.S. on Wednesday, April 22, 2020. The inquiry investigating the mass killing in Nova Scotia that claimed 22 lives last year has filed almost 50 subpoenas to compel the release of information from several organization, including the RCMP. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan
A man walks on a red carpet displaying a sign for the Toronto International Film Festival at the TIFF Bell Lightbox in Toronto on September 3, 2014. The Toronto International Film Festival kicks off today with an emphasis on the big screen and big pandemic precautions.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darren Calabrese
Leslie John McCulloch, shown here in a 2019 police photo, has been granted day parole after serving just over two years of an eight-year sentence imposed for drug trafficking.
A composite image of five photographs show, from left to right, Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet in Ottawa on Tuesday, June 1, 2021; Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole in St. John's, N.L. on Monday, July 26, 2021; Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau in Montreal, Thursday, Aug. 5, 2021; NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh in Ottawa on Wednesday, June 23, 2021, and Green Leader Annamie Paul in Toronto on Monday, July 19, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick, Paul Daly, Graham Hughes, Chris Young
Akalin urged her to come to his house if she felt unsafe. Okay cool, thank you, she answered. I have my gun but really dont want to use it other than at a gun range.

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Sznitkos sister said Sznitko had been expressing concern about her safety concerning Andino to members of her family for several months.

Viola said Kenosha Police were called to Sznitkos home in July for a call regarding Andino. He said Andino was not at the house at the time and no arrests were made.

Sznitko grew up in Libertyville, Ill. Her neighbors said she moved to her home in Kenosha about five years ago, and said she had been working as an accountant remotely from her home. She was a sweet, caring and funny girl, said Sznitkos sister.

Neighbors on her street said they were used to seeing her out walking her dog several times a day, and said the last time they saw her outside was Saturday. On Sunday, they said, there was loud music coming from her home, which they said was unusual, and her blinds were drawn.

Viola said Sznitkos death remains under investigation.

Additional investigation
If you have a giant pumpkin lying around the house, bring it to the festival site from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday to register it for the contest. The only rule is that you must have grown it yourself.

As for what one can do with a colossal pumpkin, were thinking a world-record pumpkin pie topped with gallons of whipped cream.

Besides the ginormous pumpkins, the festival features childrens activities from local museums, including a Dino Dig, animal pelts, 19th century games and watercolor painting. The Kenosha Public Market is bringing food and craft vendors to the event.

Its really family friendly, Kochman said, and everything is free, unless you buy food and drinks.

The contest

The Wisconsin Giant Pumpkin Growers will host the Kenosha pumpkin weigh-off. Entries will be weighed and measured starting at 11:30 a.m.

The growers are competing for prize money, plus the all-important bragging rights. And a plaque! Runners-up will also win prize money and ribbons.

The group describes itself as a social organization committed to the growing, teaching and sharing of giant fruits and vegetables in the Wisconsin area.

The festival attracts about a dozen giant pumpkins, and Kochman said the outsized squash are all different colors and different shapes. A lot of people like to come just to see them. They also like to talk to the pumpkin growers and ask them about growing these giants.

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It is also right that we say there needs to be a plan for how to handle this influx. There needs to be a plan for how to give the children enough education in English that they can eventually adapt to our schools. There needs to be a plan for how to ensure their parents can find employment and the kind of future so many generations have come to our country to seek.

We cannot allow concerns about problems that have yet to happen to stall efforts to smooth the way forward. The reception and eventual integration of these people into our nation cannot be as chaotic as the situation from which they were removed.

The process will probably not be as smooth as we might hope. There are always snags when youre talking about this many people. There are always challenges when you bring people from different cultures together. Just look at history,

Every generation of immigrants has faced eerily similar questions and objections. There were concerns about whether Irish immigration in the 1840s would alter our countrys social and religious makeup. Similar objections followed the increase in immigration from Eastern Europe in the latter half of that century.
Owen Wilson has boarded the 'Haunted Mansion' remake.

The 52-year-old actor - who voices Lightning McQueen in Disney Pixar's 'Cars' franchise, and Mobius in the 'Loki' series on Disney Plus - has landed a currently unknown role in the upcoming flick, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The 'Night at the Museum' star joins Tiffany Haddish and LaKeith Stanfield in the movie, which is based on the ghost train attraction at the Disney parks.

The 'Girls Trip' star and the 'Knives Out' actor are set to play a psychic who can communicate with the dead and "a widower who once believed in the supernatural but is now a rather lifeless tour guide in New Orleans French Quarter", respectively.

Justin Simien is helming the flick and Katie Dippold is penning the script.

Filming is due to commence in autumn in New Orleans.

The 2003 movie starred Eddie Murphy as realtor Jim Evers and was also filmed in the US city.

Before her role was unveiled, Tiffany hinted she was ready for a Disney project.

Speaking on the red carpet at the 'Jungle Cruise' premiere at Disneyland, she said: "Im a huge Disney fan. I watched all Disney movies coming up I love me some Disney.

Asked if that's her "next move", she replied: Well, it is. Im not here for nothing Tiffany show up everywhere she need to be for a reason  Im not a roach, I dont just pop up out of nowhere.

"When I show up, somethings about to happenIm not spilling no tea, but it might be slowly dripping off the edges of the cup!

'Jungle' Cruise' is also based on a ride at the theme park.
Ketchikan, AK (99901)

Today

A steady light rain early...then remaining cloudy with a few showers. High near 55F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low near 45F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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An excerpt from The Real DramaIncredible Medicine.

It was an ordinary day in my family medicine practice many years ago. A variety of patients, many longstanding and from various generations of whole families, were filling the waiting room. Back then, I had four very efficient and nice women working for me, with various duties. We had 3 examining rooms and a small lab. (Ive cut back since but havent left medicine yet!)

All of a sudden, my office manager burst into my private office where I was counseling a patient after her exam, looking panicky and terrified.

She said R.L. (not real initials) was in the waiting room, waving around a knapsack full of guns and threatening everyone.

She said he wanted to see me immediately  and that he wanted ME to take his guns away from him!

He had been a particularly difficult patient, but we had thought we were making progress with him.

He had an artificial leg (everyone thought he had been in Vietnam), but it had come from him intentionally running in front of a truck, to end his life. This was way before he became our patient.

He was found, by psychiatric consultation, to be psychotic (profound disordered thinking and/or feeling), but he had many good and normal aspects of his nature when he was taking the right psychiatric medicines. He didnt like the psychiatrist and preferred to have me order his medicines.

I immediately figured, He must be off his meds. He had been taking pills, which he and we knew were helping correct his faulty thinking, but was always forgetting them  so we arranged for him to have a shot weekly instead (which was, at the time, an acceptable treatment). He had refused to see a psychiatrist regularly, preferring our welcoming office and more personal care, and we also accomplished his general medical care as well, as with any well-run family medicine practice.

I told my office manager to usher him into my office while excusing the patient who was sitting there telling her that I would be with her just as soon as we were finished.

Meanwhile, I began trembling and trying to think fast with a perplexing mix of questions in mind as to how best to handle such an unexpected crisis.

I knew that he trusted me and that that was why he had come. I knew that I couldnt antagonize him at all, but I didnt know specifically what would set him off, or what would calm him down.

He was obviously relieved that the office manager would take him immediately to see me. I put on my best, relaxed greeting telling him we were happy to see him, since he needed a checkup anyway, and we could do it today since he came here. He did respond to being welcomed. He clutched his full canvas knapsack tightly.

I asked him right away if he had perhaps forgotten to go to the ER (where we had arranged the weekly anti-psychotic medicine shot). And of course, he said, Yes, but I didnt forget, I just wanted to stop that medicine.

I asked what I could do to help him. He said, Take these guns away from me. Im afraid I might use them.

And he took one out and brandished it in front of me.

I sat still in my seat behind my desk. I thought, Is this the way it ends? I had read about doctors being shot by irate patients, and I had no idea what would come next.

I tried my best not even to blink. I said, R.L., you know weve always wanted the best for you. Weve taken good care of you.

He said, Yes, you have  thats why Im here. I knew youd fix it.

I said, Where did you get these guns, and how many are there, and why do you want me to take them away from you?

He said there were three pistols of various sizes and a rifle. He said it was easy to get guns. He then asked, Are you going to call the police? I said, Im going to do whatever is best for you. You are my patient  for a long time  and we want to help you. What do you think?

He said, Take these away from me. Im scared I might use them.

I said, Would you be willing to go straight from here to the ER where they have been giving you your medicine routinely from my order? We will call ahead to be sure they will take you right away. You know you will feel more normal with it. He said, Yes, but it has some side effects that I dont like. I said, Well deal with that a little later, and maybe change to another just as good, OK?

He stood up. I was still terrified. He reached down, replaced the pistol he had been holding in his hand inside the bag, picked up the long, canvas knapsack with the rifle and three pistols it, came around the desk as I stood up, rising out of my chair behind the desk. He handed me the knapsack. It was so heavy, I had to hold it with both hands.

I looked him in the eyes. I said, Youre doing the right thing, you know. He said, Youre not going to call the police? I said, I have no reason to, youre going along with the best plan to keep you and everyone else safe, and I am very happy with that. I want you to keep all your appointments, with me and the psychiatrist, and we really care about you and your treatment for your illness.

He said, I know, and thats why I came. I feel better now.

I walked him out of the office, calmly, past all the staff and the other patients, half of whom had left in terror, not knowing what would happen next.

After an hour, I called the ER to verify that he had gone to get his shot. They said yes.

Pepi Granat is a family physician.

Image credit: Shutterstock.com
LANE COUNTY, Ore. -- Doctors in Western Oregon are encouraging more people to get vaccinated as the number of breakthrough cases rise.

Breakthrough cases are when fully-vaccinated people still become infected with COVID-19.

On Sept. 8, PeaceHealth broke down the current number of people hospitalized by vaccination status at RiverBend Hospital.

The graphic shows 20 out of 87, or nearly 23%, of hospitalizations being from breakthrough cases.

Dr. Bob Pelz, an infectious disease specialist at RiverBend, said this should not discourage people from getting vaccinated.

"There's a number of things to keep in mind," Pelz said. "The more people in the population that are unvaccinated, the more likely it is that somebody vaccinated will get an infection."

This is because the current vaccines available in the U.S. were created to combat the original strain of the virus of SARS-CoV-2. So if an unvaccinated person carries the virus and it mutates, it can still infect a vaccinated person.

However, Pelz said even from those fully vaccinated in hospitals, they are seeing far milder symptoms. He said they are also less likely to be on a ventilator or in the intensive care unit.

McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center said they've seen a small increase in breakthrough cases from the past.

"There's probably a couple reasons for the increase in breakthrough infections," said McKenzie-Willamette's infectious disease specialist Dr. Buck Scholtz. "One of them is the arrival of the Delta variant in July which we know is more transmissble. It just happened to be the perfect storm of around the same time our mask restrictions went away."

Overall, doctors in Lane County said although breakthrough hospitalizations are more frequent than before, most of those patients recover quickly.

Dr. Patrick Luedtke, the senior public health officer for Lane County, said the current trends of breakthrough infections were expected because of the vaccines being roughly 90% effective.

"Overall, over the course of nine months of this vaccine, they're 92% effective," Luedtke said.

Lane County Public Health reports for the week of Feb. 8, the percentage of new cases that were breakthrough were 0.2%. For the week of Aug. 9, that percentage rose to 26%. But Luedtke said nearly everyone vaccinated was able to avoid death.

"We are seeing more breakthroughs from Delta than Alpha," Luedtke said. "These vaccines are really effective at preventing death. Less than one percent of all COVID-19 deaths in the country are from those who are fully vaccinated."

Good Samaritan Hospital in Benton and Linn counties said they've also seen breakthrough cases rise but non-breakthrough cases are rising much faster.

"The number of breakthrough hospitalizations has remained low, at or below 10 percent," said Good Samaritan Hospital's chief medical officer Dr. Adam Brady.

All the doctors in Western Oregon who spoke with KEZI said while they are concerned about breakthrough infections, the vaccines are still proving to be effective.

Doctors also said booster shots on the way may reduce breakthrough cases but the priority is still getting those who are unvaccinated to roll up their sleeves.
EUGENE, Ore. -- The pandemic has caused a labor shortage, but a local salon owner says finding employees who want to work isnt the issue.

Elizabeth Harestad, owner of Studio 408 on Crescent Avenue in Eugene, said business has been busy during the pandemic.

Things have been actually going really well. It's been very busy since we've come back from the shutdown. We were shut down for eight weeks, Harestad said.

Harestad said other salons are also busy and appointments are booked out across town. Shed like to hire several more employees to keep up. However, some applicants are fresh out of beauty school. They still need to take their licensing exams to be authorized to work in the state.

But Harestad said the state agency responsible for proctoring the exams, the Health Licensing Office, is closed due to COVID-19.

We're ready to hire, but we can't hire because they're unable to be licensed because the state board offices are now behind and then also have been closed, Harestad said.

We did reach out to the Oregon Health Authority, which oversees the Health Licensing Office, but have not heard back. However, the website confirms the office is closed to the public but is still scheduling appointments.

Harestad is also concerned about what happens when they eventually reopen.

There's one licensing office for all of Oregon. So, when the licensing office opens up, what is that going to look like when you have students from all over Oregon go to this one office to make appointments? It's going to be backed up, Harestad said.

Instead of making employees work extra hours to keep up with demand, she says theyre forced to book out appointments into the future. But that also means losing money.

Our rents keep going up. Electricity bills keep going up. Our bills keep going up. But we're not able to get revenue that's coming in unless I were to ask my staff to work extra hard and then burn out. I'm not asking my staff to do that, Harestad said.
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The president of the UN climate change conference COP26 insisted Tuesday that the event scheduled for November in Glasgow "must go ahead in person," after a network of 1,500 civil society groups dialed up pressure on the UK to postpone the event.

The Climate Action Network (CAN), which includes groups from more than 130 countries, said in a statement that the failure to provide vaccines to millions of people in poor countries, as well as the high costs of travel and accommodation, has made it impossible to ensure the COP26 talks will be "safe, inclusive and just."

Several of its members have complained that the UK has been slow to deliver the vaccines it had offered delegates with the aim of securing the event against Covid-19. Many developing countries are struggling with vaccine rollouts as wealthier nations bought up huge amounts of the global supply in agreements with pharmaceutical companies, often well before the shots were even approved.

"The UK has been too slow in delivering its vaccines support to delegates in vulnerable countries and their quarantine requirements come with some eye-watering hotel costs. Some delegates are finding they cannot transit because some of the major travel hubs are closed and the alternative travel costs are beyond the reach of poorer governments and smaller civil society organizations," said Mohamed Adow, director of the Nairobi-based think tank Power Shift Africa, which is part of CAN's network.

"If COP26 goes ahead as currently planned, I fear it is only the rich countries and NGOs from those countries that would be able to attend. This flies in the face of the principles of the UN process and opens the door for a rich nations stitch-up of the talks. A climate summit without the voices of those most affected by climate change is not fit for purpose."

CAN Executive Director Tasneem Essop called for the talks to be postponed, saying she was concerned the countries worst affected by the climate crisis would be left out of the very negotiations that implicate them the most.

"There has always been an inherent power imbalance within the UN climate talks and this is now compounded by the health crisis," Essop said.

"Looking at the current timeline for COP26, it is difficult to imagine there can be fair participation from the Global South under safe conditions and it should therefore be postponed."

CAN also said that many delegates had not received their first vaccines. Most Covid-19 vaccines require two shots and are typically spaced out by around least eight weeks. The Glasgow talks are now just two months away.

"Repeated requests to the UK Presidency for clarity around support for logistics and quarantine costs have also not been forthcoming or been made public causing uncertainty and anxiety," CAN added in its statement.

CAN also expressed concern about the de facto exclusion of journalists and civil society groups from the UK's coronavirus red-list countries. People who have been in red-list countries within 10 days before arriving to the UK must undergo a costly quarantine in a hotel upon arrival.

Some countries on the red list are among the most vulnerable to climate change, including the Maldives and Bangladesh.

COP26 President Alok Sharma, a British MP, pointed to the UK government's steps to ensure delegates are offered vaccines, and that those from red-list countries receive fully-funded quarantine accommodation.

In remarks sent to CNN, he said: "COP26 has already been postponed by one year, and we are all too aware climate change has not taken time off. The recent IPCC report underlines why COP26 must go ahead this November to allow world leaders to come together and set out decisive commitments to tackle climate change."

Delegates who had registered for vaccination would begin receiving their first doses this week, his office told CNN.

Not all civil society groups or vulnerable nations are calling for the talks to be delayed. The Climate Vulnerable Forum, which includes 48 member states from Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America and the Pacific, said Tuesday that COP26 must happen in-person in November "with robust Covid-19 measures," calling for "special support" for vulnerable developing countries.

"This is the most important meeting for the future of the planet and it cannot wait," it said.

Sharma is currently in China, where he has been discussing "goals" for the talks, he said in a separate Twitter post.

The Glasgow talks are seen as crucial as scientists warn that the world needs to dramatically reduce fossil fuel emissions over the next decade to have any chance of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Global warming of 2 degrees Celsius would result in significant global changes, including more frequent and intense extreme weather events, with some ecosystems passing critical tipping points.

If COP26 goes ahead, it would be one of the largest in-person international events held since the outbreak of Covid-19.

The-CNN-Wire

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ROCHESTER, Minn.- Rochester Police confirm a bomb threat near Victoria's Ristorante and Wine Bar.

Authorities say an email was sent saying something would go off around 10 a.m.

Police told our reporter on scene Thursday morning that their K9s didn't detect a threat. They say the owners of Victoria's didn't see anything suspicious either.

Police say there are no suspects at this time.
ROCHESTER, Minn. - Keeping COVID out of classrooms is proving to be a challenge in the first week of the new school year at RPS.

Sharing an update on the district's Safe and Open Schools Plan, Interim Superintendent Dr. Kent Pekel acknowledged student case counts are climbing.

"As I was putting these remarks together [Monday] and getting updates from the team, we went from having had 10 cases reported today, to 14 cases reported today, to 16 reported today, and that's how it feels in the schools right now." Dr. Pekel continued, "the numbers are growing, and we are getting a better sense by the day of what controlling COVID and mitigating COVID looks like as the Delta variant is in our schools."

The school year has just begun, yet RPS has already seen 52 students test positive for coronavirus, with more than half showing symptoms. Dr. Pekel shared an update this week from Principal Amy Adams on mitigation measures at Longfellow Elementary.

"She feels like students at Longfellow have been doing a great job of following the mitigation strategies, as have staff in putting together a safe and supportive environment for their students. And she particularly highlighted the Longfellow parents, who are really diligently following the decision tree that we released and choosing to keep their students home from school when they do have symptoms," Pekel shared.

Reading another note from his conversation with Adams, Pekel told school board members, "she said we're very glad we've had to quarantine students, but not classrooms And I think that's a really important goal."

However, challenges have also arisen according to Adams and other district staff. They include helping families adapt when kids need to be quarantined, and finding the time and resources to implement COVID guidelines.

"A whole array of sanitation procedures, we know this, but take a lot of extra time," Pekel said. "They've also really worked to limit movement throughout the building to lessen exposure, which has been effective and so far as they've had very, very limited exposure at Longfellow. But there's a price to the kind of free-flowing interaction that we want our kids to have."

Another challenge RPS is encountering - keeping up with the demand for masks.

"We are going through disposable masks very quickly. One estimate that Scott Sheridan shared with me was maybe 5000 per day, but that might just be because the school year is just the beginning."

Against that backdrop, 500 students are choosing not to come back to the classroom, instead taking courses through the district's new K-12 digital school, RPS Online. Dr. Pekel says enrollment in the digital option is very full through 8th grade, with some high school openings available on a case-by-case basis.
PRESTON, Minn. - It's just a short drive away, nestled in the trees, within the confines of Forestville Mystery Cave State Park near Preston. Every step across a landmark bridge at the park leads you to the tales of yesteryear.

"Historic Forestville is just one of the many small towns that popped up in the 1850s and this is what's left," explained Rebecca Lofgren, a Program Associate with Historic Forestville.

Within the last year and a half over $1.5 million dollars worth of work has been done to preserve the town for future generations. It's what Lofgren described as a great representation of the settlement of Minnesota by U.S. citizens and immigrants. While Historic Forestville may have been small it undoubtedly had many big stories to share.

"The town was growing until the late 1860s when the railroad bypassed Forestville and at that time there were over 100 people here. By 1880 there were less than 55 and after that, it became more of a company town or farm, then just a family farm and eventually part of the state park," said Lofgren.

The railroad would avoid the hills of the valley going just 5 miles north of Forestville thru Wykoff. Walking the grounds of the historic village you'll see a livestock barn and storage for the family's crops, along with what Lofgren called the heart of the tour, The Meighen Store.

"The story is that in 1910 Thomas Meighen who is Felix's son walked away and locked the door. When he closed the store over 60 percent of what is in the store today is original, the paper and fabric products did not survive as well so some of them are reproductions," said Lofgren.

Groceries, hats, paints, and much more if Forestville families needed it, the store offered it, including the postal service.

"The post office was here from 1855 to 1902 and then at that point the RR delivery service started and so then all the class 4 post offices that did less than 1,000k of business a year were disbanded - average here was 75$ a year - a little bit short, yes... (laughs)," explained Lofgren.

Adjacent to the store is the Meighen residence. Inside there is technology from the 1800s like an apple peeler and a coffee grinder. It's something Lofgren hopes will resonate with youngsters who visit historic Forestville.

"There is technology here believe it or not it's just not the technology that they are used to. Even just a stove was actually technology at that time," said Lofgren.

While the town has a lot of history to share Lofgren said it isn't all good. She pointed to how the land was taken from the Indigenous People.

"The historical society and just history in locations, in general, a lot of times we talk about all the good things that happened there but it's not always all good - just like today, there are good things and bad things. That has been the way it has been for eternity."

To learn more about Historic Forestville click here.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (AP)  A New Mexico man has been sentenced in Iowa to two years' probation and fined $5,000 for flying a single-engine plane in 2018 without a license, which was discovered when he was forced to make an emergency landing.

Federal prosecutors for Iowa say 44-year-old Keith Alexander Thomas, of Portales, New Mexico, was sentenced in Cedar Rapid's federal court on Wednesday after he pleased guilty in April to a single count of operating as an airman without a airman certificate.

Prosecutors say Thomas had agreed to fly the newly-purchased Cessna from Wisconsin to New Mexico, even though he didn't have a pilot's license.

Prosecutors say the plane went into engine failure over Iowa, and Thomas made an emergency landing in Waterloo. No one was hurt.
MASON CITY, Iowa  A man implicated in a 2020 crime wave has been sentenced.

James Jay Eden, 30 of Mason City, pleaded guilty to third-degree burglary and second-degree theft. Hes been given three to five years of probation.

Eden originally faced even more charges after being accused of burglarizing East Side Storage in Mason City on November 8, 2020. As part of their investigation, law enforcement says the following stolen items were also found at Edens home:

- Electric bicycle taken from the 800 block of 15th Street SE.

- Tools, heaters, fuel cans, and a cooler taken from the 1600 block of 12th Street NE.

- Riding lawn mower taken from the 900 block of 7th Street SE.

- Chips and cheese sauce taken from the Muse Norris Softball Complex concession stand.

- Snow blower taken from the 00 block of Kentucky Court.

The thefts allegedly happened between July 26 and November 17 in 2020.
ROCHESTER, Minn.  A man accused of five felony sex crimes is pleading not guilty.

Timothy Jay Griffin, 55 of Rochester, was arrested in December 2020 and charged with two counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, two counts of second-degree criminal sexual conduct, and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Law enforcement says the crimes all involved a victim under the age of 17 and happened in Olmsted County.

No trial date has been set for Griffin.
Overland Elementary celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a self-guided tour of the facility on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m.

Local leaders attended the ribbon-cutting event, which included Minnesota State Senator Carla Nelson, members of the Rochester Public School Board and Rochester Interim Superintendent Kent Pekel.

The new school is a dual-level facility, with giant bay windows, gender-neutral bathrooms and a copper exterior that shines in the sun.

Overland Elementary Principal Jared Groehler said students have given positive feedback on the new school.

"We have now finished four days of school and our students have just loved being in the big beautiful new building. The wide-open windows and the natural light that is coming into beautiful new spaces. it has been a great start to the year," Groehler said.

Groehler also said the new school has an occupancy of 720 students but that Overland currently has 475 enrolled.

The new Overland Elementary has over 50 classrooms.
ROCHESTER, Minn. - Tens of thousands of first responders ran into the Twin Towers on September 11th, 2001. Unfortunately, 343 New York City firefighters didn't come home that night. Over the past two decades, more than 200 have died from 9/11 related health issues.

Captain Brett Knapp with the Rochester Fire Department said as a first responder himself, he'll never forget. "I think as a firefighter and first responder, you always think back to all the sacrifices that all those first responders made that day," he explained.

Rochester firefighter, Mandee Marx, said while the tragedy of 9/11 didn't change the way firemen and women train today, it did create more opportunities to be prepared. "It did make us focus a little more on a mass casualty, like if a building collapsed or a structure collapsed," she explained. "This truck [behind me] is a structural collapse truck that our department has just for situations like that. If a building collapses, we have the ability now to go in and help whereas I don't think we thought about that before."

Today, thousands of the emergency workers who responded on 9/11 are still battling health issues, both physically and mentally. Looking at the tens of thousands of first responders who were at Ground Zero the morning of 9/11, more than a fifth of them report signs of depression to this day. Around one in ten have PTSD. "For a long time, those types of things were kind of kept hidden or people dealt with them in ways that weren't healthy for them in the long run necessarily and their mental health was affected," said Captain Knapp.

Marx is well aware of the stresses brought on by the daily grind of life as a first responder. She said support is key. "We have each other. We're like a big family. We'll come back from calls and we'll kind of debrief with each other. We'll talk about things," explained Marx. "There are also programs now through the state of Minnesota that offer someone to speak to or we can get peers that we can talk to. So, there is awareness to that and that's also good based on what happened at the PTSD."

Nearly 16,000 New York firefighters were exposed to dust, gases, chemicals and fibers while working for more than 10 months during the rescue and recovery effort. More than 11,000 of them have been diagnosed and certified with at least one World Trade Center-covered condition for physical or mental health, ranging from asthma and reflux to PTSD and cancer. That's according to the World Trade Center Health Program.
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Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Noh Hyeong-ouk, right, does a fist bump with his Paraguayan counterpart Arnoldo Wiens Durksen, after signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the Conrad Seoul, Yeouido, Thursday. Courtesy of Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport
Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping / EPA-Yonhap



Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed efforts to advance relations with North Korea in messages sent to leader Kim Jong-un to congratulate him on his country's 73rd founding anniversary Thursday, Pyongyang's state media reported.



"I and Comrade General Secretary have maintained close communication and led the bilateral relations for them to develop in a stable way and, thus steadily made good success, which further enriched the traditional bilateral friendship," Xi was quoted as saying by the Korean Central News Agency.



"I highly value the development of the China-DPRK relations and intend to develop these ties of friendship and cooperation on a long-term basis and in a stable way," he added, using the acronym of the North's official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.






By Joseph S. Nye, Jr.





CAMBRIDGE  The terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, were a horrific shock. Images of trapped victims leaping from the Twin Towers are indelible, and the intrusive security measures introduced in the wake of the attacks have long since become a fact of life.







But skeptics doubt that it marked a turning point in history. They note that the immediate physical damage was far from fatal to American power. It is estimated that the United States' GDP growth dropped by three percentage points in 2001, and insurance claims for damages eventually totaled over $40 billion  a small fraction of what was then a $10 trillion economy.







And the nearly 3,000 people killed in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., when the al-Qaida hijackers turned four aircraft into cruise missiles was a small fraction of U.S. travel fatalities that year.







While accepting these facts, my guess is that future historians will regard 9/11 as a date as important as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. The surprise attack on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii killed some 2,400 American military personnel and destroyed or damaged 19 naval craft, including eight battleships. In both cases, however, the main effect was on public psychology.







For years, President Franklin D. Roosevelt had tried to alert Americans to the Axis threat but had failed to overcome isolationism. All that changed with Pearl Harbor. In the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush advocated a humble foreign policy and warned against the temptations of nation-building.







After the shock of 9/11, he declared a "global war on terror" and invaded both Afghanistan and Iraq. Given the proclivities of top members of his administration, some say a clash with Iraq's then-dictator, Saddam Hussein, was predictable in any case, but not its manner or cost.







What 9/11 illustrates is that terrorism is about psychology, not damage. Terrorism is like theatre. With their powerful military, Americans believe that "shock and awe" comes from massive bombardment. For terrorists, shock and awe comes from the drama more than the number of deaths caused by their attacks. Poisons might kill more people, but explosions get the visuals. The constant replay of the falling Twin Towers on the world's television sets was Osama bin Laden's coup.







Terrorism can also be compared to jujitsu, in which a weak adversary turns the power of a larger player against itself. While the 9/11 attacks killed several thousand Americans, the "endless wars" that the U.S. subsequently launched killed many more. Indeed, the damage done by al-Qaeda pales in comparison to the damage America did to itself.







By some estimates, nearly 15,000 U.S. military personnel and contractors were killed in the wars that followed 9/11, and the economic cost exceeded $6 trillion. Add to this the number of foreign civilians killed and refugees created, and the costs grow even more enormous. The opportunity costs were also large. When President Barack Obama tried to pivot to Asia  the fastest-growing part of the world economy  the legacy of the global war on terror kept the U.S. mired in the Middle East.







Despite these costs, some say that the U.S. achieved its goal: There has not been another major terrorist attack on the U.S. homeland on the scale of 9/11. Bin Laden and many of his top lieutenants were killed, and Saddam Hussein was removed (though his connection to 9/11 was always dubious).







Alternatively, a case can be made that bin Laden succeeded, particularly if we consider that his beliefs included the value of religious martyrdom. The jihadist movement is fragmented, but it has spread to more countries, and the Taliban have returned to power in Afghanistan  ironically, just before the 9/11 anniversary that President Joe Biden originally set as the target date for withdrawing U.S. troops.







It is too early to assess the long-term effects of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. The short-term effects of the chaotic exit are costly, but in the long term, Biden may come to be seen as correct to forswear the effort at nation-building in a country divided by mountains and tribes and united mainly by opposition to foreigners.







Leaving Afghanistan will allow Biden to focus on his grand strategy of balancing the rise of China. For all the damage done to U.S. soft power by the chaotic manner of the exit from Afghanistan, Asia has its own longstanding balance of power in which countries like Japan, India, and Vietnam do not wish to be dominated by China and welcome an American presence.







When one considers that within 20 years of America's traumatic exit from Vietnam, the U.S. was welcome in that country as well as the region, Biden's overall strategy makes sense.







At the same time, 20 years after 9/11, the problem of terrorism remains, and terrorists may feel emboldened to try again. If so, the task for U.S. leaders is to develop an effective counter-terrorism strategy. Its core must be to avoid falling into terrorists' trap by doing great damage to ourselves. Leaders must plan to manage the psychological shocks at home and abroad.







Imagine what the world would be like if Bush had avoided the tempting rallying cry of a global war on terror and responded to 9/11 by carefully selected military strikes combined with good intelligence and diplomacy. Or, if he had gone into Afghanistan, imagine that he had withdrawn after six months, even if that had involved negotiating with the despised Taliban.







Looking forward, when the next terrorist attacks come, will presidents be able to channel public demand for revenge by precise targeting, explaining the trap that terrorists set, and focusing on creating resilience in U.S. responses? That is the question Americans should be asking, and that their leaders should be addressing.









Joseph S. Nye, Jr. is dean emeritus of Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government and the author of "Do Morals Matter? Presidents and Foreign Policy from FDR to Trump." His article was distributed by Project Syndicate (




David M. Shribman is the former executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. His email is dshribman@post-gazette.com.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) - Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler says hes disappointed that the city will not be able to require officers in the Portland Police Bureau to get vaccinated.

Last week the city mandated that all city employees get vaccinated or lose their jobs. Their deadline to show proof of vaccination is the middle of October. But updated guidance from the Oregon Health Authority on Friday has put that mandate in legal trouble when it comes to police officers.

Wheeler says according to state law, vaccinations cannot be required for police officers unless there is a federal or state law mandating the vaccination.

He said originally the city thought Governor Kate Browns mandate requiring anyone who works in a healthcare setting to get vaccinated would apply to police. However, OHA updated its guidance on Friday, which says that this law would likely not apply to a police officer unless that officers job, by definition, requires them to provide medical care.

Oregon State troopers, firefighters suing Gov. Brown over vaccine mandate SALEM, OR (KPTV) - A group of Oregon State Troopers and firefighters is suing Gov. Kate Brown over the vaccine mandate for state employees.

Wheeler said he is disappointed that not all city employees can be held to the same vaccine requirement.

I still am strongly encouraging police officers to get vaccinated. Our City leaders have decided we want to lead by example, and science has proven that vaccines are the most effective tool to end this pandemic. It is critical that we do everything we can to minimize risk to our community members and co-workers, Mayor Wheeler said in a statement.

The statement comes the same day that the Oregon Health Authority announced 2,352 new cases of COVID-19 and 47 new deaths related to the virus.

OHA also reported the number of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 across Oregon is 1,138, which is two fewer than Tuesday. There are 297 COVID-19 patients in intensive care unit (ICU) beds, which is three fewer than the previous day.

Portland: City employees must get COVID-19 vaccine PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  City employees in Portland, Oregon, must be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus  or obtain a medical or religious 

There are 43 available adult ICU beds out of 640 total (7% availability) and 343 available adult non-ICU beds out of 4,336 (8% availability).

More information about hospital capacity can be found here.

The city says it will continue to implement its vaccine requirement, but will remain consistent with state law.

Right now, the city says it does not have vaccine data available to share.

When asked for comment, PPB said it would not take a position on this issue and will comply with the law.

The Portland Police Association did not respond to a request for comment.
RENTON, Wash. (AP)  A Seattle area police officer was the target of gunfire that came from a gas station as she was stopped at an intersection in her patrol car this week, investigators said Wednesday.

The veteran Renton police officer, whose name has not been released, had just driven out of a car wash and was waiting to turn left from Talbot Road South onto South Grady Way at about 4:50 p.m. Tuesday when she heard at least 10 gunshots.

The officer thought something might have struck her patrol car, and she ducked down in her vehicle and radioed for help, Detective Robert Onishi said Wednesday. When the shooting stopped, witnesses pointed out a red Kia fleeing from a Chevron gas station.

A number of officers were already nearby, responding to an unrelated incident at City Hall, and they saw and stopped the fleeing car after a brief pursuit, Onishi said. They arrested the suspected shooter, a 24-year-old Kirkland man, and the driver, a 23-year-old Seattle man.

Detectives said Wednesday that after reviewing surveillance footage, it was clear the shooter was firing at the officer. Onishi said he was not aware of any potential motive for the shooting or if there was any known connection between the shooter and the officer.

+2 Wash Co. detectives looking for witnesses to deadly road rage shooting BEAVERTON, OR (KPTV)  Detectives with the Washington County Sheriffs Office are asking for the publics help who may have a road rage incide

No one was injured in the shooting, though one vehicle parked at the gas station was struck by gunfire and one witness was treated for a panic attack, Onishi said.

Police said they want to speak with the drivers of a black SUV and a white sedan that were stopped at a red light directly in front of the officer's car.
Here is a list of incidents of elementary, middle and high school violence with at least one fatality, from 1927 to the present. Suicides, gang-related incidents and deaths resulting from domestic conflicts are not included. If a perpetrator was killed or died by suicide during the incident, their death is not included in the fatality totals.

Because there is no central database tracking school violence incidents, this list is based primarily on media reports and may not be complete or representative of all incidents.

READ MORE: Ten years of school shootings

US Timeline (selected only)

September 1, 2021 - Mount Tabor High School - Winston-Salem, North Carolina. A student is fatally shot, and a suspect is taken into custody.

March 1, 2021 - Watson Chapel Junior High - Pine Bluff, Arkansas. A student is fatally shot, and a 15-year-old male suspect is arrested.

January 14, 2020 - Bellaire High School - Bellaire, Texas. A 16-year-old male fatally shoots classmate Cesar Cortes. The teen is arrested and charged with manslaughter. The county district attorney said it appeared the shooting was unintentional.

Noveber 14, 2019 - Saugus High School - Santa Clarita, California. Nathaniel Berhow, 16, opens fire, killing two and injuring three, then shoots himself.

May 6, 2019 - STEM School Highlands Ranch - Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Suspects Devon Erickson, 18, and Alec McKinney, 16, are apprehended after a shooting leaves one dead and eight others injured.

May 18, 2018 - Santa Fe High School - Santa Fe, Texas. Dimitrios Pagourtzis, 17, allegedly opens fire killing 10 and injuring 13. Pagourtzis is arrested and charged with capital murder and aggravated assault of a public servant. In November 2019, he is declared mentally incompetent to stand trial.

February 14, 2018 - Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School - Parkland, Florida. Former student, Nikolas Cruz, 19, allegedly opens fire with an AR-15 rifle, killing 17 people and injuring 17 others. According to law enforcement, the suspect activated a fire alarm to draw people outside to increase casualties. Cruz is arrested and charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder.

January 23, 2018 - Marshall County High School - Benton, Kentucky. Gabriel R. Parker, 15, allegedly opens fire killing two and injuring 18 others. The suspect is arrested at the scene and later charged with two counts of murder and 14 counts of first degree assault.

December 7, 2017 - Aztec High School - Aztec, New Mexico. William Atchison shoots and kills students Casey Jordan Marquez and Francisco Fernandez. Atchison, a former student at the high school, dies of what police believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

September 13, 2017 - Freeman High School - Spokane, Washington. Caleb Sharpe, a sophomore at the school, allegedly opens fire killing one student and injuring three others. Sharpe is arrested and charged with premeditated murder, three counts of attempted first-degree murder and 51 counts of second-degree assault.

April 10, 2017 - North Park Elementary School - San Bernardino, California. Jonathan Martinez, 8, and his teacher, Karen Smith, are killed when Cedric Anderson, Smith's estranged husband, walks into her special needs classroom and opens fire, armed with a large-caliber revolver. Two other students are wounded. Anderson then kills himself.

September 28, 2016 - Townville Elementary School - Greenville, South Carolina. A 14-year-old male opens fire on the playground, wounding two children and a teacher. Jacob Hall, one of the wounded children, dies three days later. Before going to the school, the teen, later identified as Jesse Osborne, shot and killed his father. In December 2018, Osborne pleads guilty to two murder charges and three attempted murder charges. In November 2019, Osborne is sentenced to life without the possibility of parole, plus 30 years.

October 24, 2014 - Marysville-Pilchuck High School - Marysville, Washington. Freshman Jaylen Fryberg shoots five people in the school cafeteria, killing one. Fryberg dies of a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. A second victim dies of her injuries two days later; a third dies on October 31. A fourth victim dies on November 7.

June 10, 2014 - Reynolds High School - Troutdale, Oregon. Jared Padgett, 15, shoots and kills 14-year-old Emilio Hoffman in the school gym. He later takes his own life.

December 13, 2013 - Arapahoe High School - Centennial, Colorado. Karl Pierson, 18, opens fire inside, critically injuring one student and then killing himself. 17-year-old Claire Davis dies on December 21, eight days after being shot.

October 21, 2013 - Sparks Middle School - Sparks, Nevada. 12-year-old student Jose Reyes takes his parent's handgun to school and shoots three, injuring two 12-year-old male students and killing Mike Landsberry, a teacher and Marine veteran. He then kills himself.

December 14, 2012 - Sandy Hook Elementary School - Newtown, Connecticut. Adam Lanza, 20, guns down 20 children, ages 6 and 7, and six adults, school staff and faculty, before turning the gun on himself. Investigating police later find Nancy Lanza, Adam's mother, dead from a gunshot wound. The final count is 27 dead.

February 27, 2012 - Chardon High School - Chardon, Ohio. Student Daniel Parmertor, 16, is killed and four others wounded when student T.J. Lane, 17, opens fire in the school. On February 28, Demetrius Hewlin, 16, dies from his wounds and Russell King Jr., 17, is declared brain dead. In March 2013, Lane is sentenced to life in prison. On September 11, 2014, Lane escapes from prison. He is captured early the next morning.

January 5, 2011 - Millard South High School, Omaha, Nebraska. 17-year-old Robert Butler Jr. opens fire on Principal Curtis Case and Vice Principal Vicki Kasper. Butler then kills himself about a mile from the school. Vice Principal Kasper later dies at the hospital.

February 5, 2010 - Discovery Middle School, Madison, Alabama. 14-year-old Todd Brown dies after being shot in the head in a school hallway. Fellow ninth-grader Hammad Memon later pleads guilty and is sentenced to 30 years in prison.

October 16, 2009 - Carolina Forest High School, Conway, South Carolina. 16-year-old student Trevor Varinecz is shot and killed by a police officer after allegedly pulling a knife and stabbing the officer.

September 23, 2009 - John Tyler High School, Tyler, Texas. A 16-year-old, Byron Truvia, is taken into custody for stabbing and killing high school teacher Todd R. Henry. Truvia is later found unfit to stand trial.

September 15, 2009 - Coral Gables Senior High School, Coral Gables, Florida. 17-year-old Andy Jesus Rodriguez fatally stabs 17-year-old sophomore Juan Carlos Rivera during a fight. Rodriguez is later sentenced to 40 years in prison.

August 21, 2008 - Central High School, Knoxville, Tennessee. 15-year-old Jamar Siler shoots and kills 15-year-old Ryan McDonald. In 2011, Siler receives 30 years in prison in a plea agreement.

January 3, 2007 - Henry Foss High School, Tacoma, Washington. Student Douglas Chanthabouly, 18, fatally shoots another student, Samnang Kok, 17. Chanthabouly is sentenced in 2009 to more than 23 years in prison for second-degree murder.

October 2, 2006 - West Nickel Mines Amish School, Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania. 32-year-old Charles Roberts IV goes to a small Amish school and takes at least 11 girls hostage. Five girls were killed and six others wounded. Roberts then kills himself.

September 29, 2006 - Weston High School, Cazenovia, Wisconsin. 15-year-old Eric Hainstock goes to school armed with a shotgun and a handgun. After a struggle with the school janitor, Hainstock shoots and kills the school principal. He is convicted of murder in August 2007 and sentenced to life in prison.

September 27, 2006 - Platte Canyon High School, Bailey, Colorado. 54-year-old Duane Morrison takes six female students hostage. When SWAT teams enter the school, Morrison shoots 16-year-old Emily Keyes. Morrison then kills himself. Keyes later dies at the hospital.

November 8, 2005 - Campbell County Comprehensive High School, Jacksboro, Tennessee. 15-year-old Kenneth Bartley Jr. opens fire on a principal and two assistant principals, killing one of them and critically wounding another, authorities said. In 2007, Bartley accepts a plea bargain, but his guilty plea is later vacated. In a retrial in February 2014, Bartley is found guilty of reckless homicide and not guilty of attempted first degree murder. He is sentenced to time served and released.

March 21, 2005 - Red Lake High School, Red Lake, Minnesota. 16-year-old Jeff Weise kills his grandfather and another adult, five students, a teacher and a security officer. He then kills himself.

February 3, 2004 - Southwood Middle School - Palmetto Bay, Florida. 14-year-old Michael Hernandez stabs to death 14-year-old Jaime Rodrigo Gough. In 2013, an appeals court tosses Hernandez's life sentence and remands the case for re-sentencing. In 2016, Hernandez is again sentenced to life in prison.

September 24, 2003 - Rocori High School - Cold Spring, Minnesota. 15-year-old Jason McLaughlin shoots and kills 17-year-old Aaron Rollins and critically injures another student. The second student dies in October. In 2005, McLaughlin is sentenced to consecutive terms of life in prison for first-degree murder and 12 years for second-degree murder.

April 24, 2003 - Red Lion Area Junior High School - Red Lion, Pennsylvania. 14-year-old James Sheets brings a revolver to school and kills his principal, Eugene Segro, and then himself.

December 5, 2001 - Springfield High School - Springfield, Massachusetts. At a high school for troubled teens, 17-year-old Corey Ramos stabs to death Reverend Theodore Brown, a counselor at the school. In 2003, Ramos is sentenced to life in prison.

March 5, 2001 - Santana High School - Santee, California. 15-year-old Charles "Andy" Williams kills two classmates, a 14-year-old and a 17-year-old, and injures 13. Williams is sentenced in 2002 to at least 50 years in prison.

May 26, 2000 - Lake Worth Community Middle School - Lake Worth, Florida. 13-year-old Nathaniel Brazill, after being sent home for misbehaving, returns to school and shoots and kills his teacher Barry Grunow. Brazill is sentenced to 28 years in prison.

February 29, 2000 - Buell Elementary School - Mount Morris Township, Michigan. An unnamed 6-year-old boy shoots and kills a 6-year-old playmate, Kayla Rolland, at school. He is removed from his mother's custody and put up for adoption.

November 19, 1999 - Deming Middle School - Deming, New Mexico. 12-year-old Victor Cordova shoots and kills a 13-year-old classmate. He is sentenced to two years in juvenile detention.

April 20, 1999 - Columbine High School - Littleton, Colorado. 18-year-old Eric Harris and 17-year-old Dylan Klebold kill 12 fellow students and one teacher before dying by suicide in the school library.

May 21, 1998 - Thurston High School - Springfield, Oregon. After killing his parents the previous day, 15-year-old Kip Kinkel returns to Thurston High armed with a rifle. He kills two students in the school cafeteria, a 16 and a 17-year-old. He is sentenced to 112 years in prison.

April 24, 1998 - James Parker Middle School - Edinboro, Pennsylvania. 14-year-old Andrew Wurst shoots and kills science teacher John Gillette at a school dance. He is sentenced to serve between 30 and 60 years.

March 24, 1998 - Westside Middle School - Jonesboro, Arkansas. 11-year-old Andrew Golden and 13-year-old Mitchell Johnson ambush fellow students and their teachers, killing five. Johnson is incarcerated in a youth facility and released on his 21st birthday August 11, 2005. Golden is released on his 21st birthday, May 25, 2007.

December 1, 1997 - Heath High School - West Paducah, Kentucky. 14-year-old Michael Carneal opens fire on a school prayer group, killing three girls, who were 14, 15 and 17. He is serving life in prison.

October 1, 1997 - Pearl High School - Pearl, Mississippi. After killing his mother at home, 16-year-old Luke Woodham arrives at school and shoots two classmates. Woodham is serving three life sentences plus 140 years.

February 19, 1997 - Bethel High School - Bethel, Alaska. 16-year-old Evan Ramsey uses a shotgun stolen from his foster home to kill a 15-year-old student and the school principal. He is currently serving a term of 210 years.

September 25, 1996 - Dekalb Alternative School - Decatur, Georgia. 16-year-old David Dubose Jr. shoots and kills English teacher Horace Morgan on the steps of the school. Dubose is found not guilty by reason of insanity and is committed indefinitely to a state mental hospital.

February 2, 1996 - Frontier Junior High School - Moses Lake, Washington. 14-year-old Barry Loukaitis takes a rifle to school and kills two classmates and a teacher. He is sentenced to life in prison.

January 19, 1996 - Winston Education Center - Washington. Two masked gunmen kill 14-year-old Damion Blocker in a stairwell. 16-year-old shooter Darrick Evans is given a sentence of 41 years to life in prison.

November 15, 1995 - Richland High School - Lynnville, Tennessee. 17-year-old Jamie Rouse kills a business teacher and a 16-year-old student. Rouse is serving a life sentence.

October 12, 1995 - Blackville-Hilda High School - Blackville, South Carolina. 15-year-old Toby Sincino kills a teacher and then himself.

November 7, 1994 - Wickliffe Middle School - Wickliffe, Ohio. 37-year-old drifter Keith Ledeger shoots and kills school custodian Peter Christopher and injures three others. Ledeger is sentenced to life in prison.

April 12, 1994 - Margaret Leary Elementary School - Butte, Montana. 10-year-old James Osmanson, teased because his parents have AIDS, shoots and kills an 11-year-old on the school playground. Osmanson is sent to a private residential treatment center.

February 1, 1994 - Valley View Junior High School - Simi Valley, California. 13-year-old Philip Hernandez stabs to death a 14-year-old student in a school hallway. Hernandez is sentenced to four years in a California Youth Authority prison.

December 1, 1993 - Wauwatosa West High School - Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. 21-year-old former student Leonard McDowell returns to his high school and kills Associate Principal Dale Breitlow. He is sentenced to life in prison.

May 24, 1993 - Upper Perkiomen High School - Pennsburg, Pennsylvania. 15-year-old student Jason Smith kills another student who had bullied him. He is sentenced to between 12 and 25 years in prison.

April 15, 1993 - Ford Middle School - Acushnet, Massachusetts. 44-year-old David Taber invades a middle school and takes three hostages. He later shoots and kills school nurse Carol Day. He is found not guilty of the murder by reason of insanity.

April 12, 1993 - Dartmouth High School - Dartmouth, Massachusetts. 16-year-old Jason Robinson is stabbed to death in his social studies class by three teenage attackers who invade the classroom.

January 18, 1993 - East Carter High School - Grayson, Kentucky. 17-year-old student Scott Pennington shoots and kills a teacher and custodian. He is sentenced to life in prison.

May 1, 1992 - Lindhurst High School - Olivehurst, California. 20-year-old dropout Eric Houston returns to his high school and kills a former teacher and three students. Houston is sentenced to death.

February 26, 1992 - Thomas Jefferson High School - Brooklyn, New York. A 15-year-old shoots and kills two other students. The shooter, Kahlil Sumpter, is sentenced in 1993 to between 6 2/3 and 20 years in prison and is released in 1998.

November 25, 1991 - Thomas Jefferson High School - Brooklyn, New York. A stray bullet kills a 16-year-old student during an argument between two other teens. Shooter Jason Bentley, 14, is sentenced in 1992 to three to nine years in prison.

January 17, 1989 - Cleveland Elementary School - Stockton, California. 24-year-old drifter Patrick Purdy uses an AK-47 to kill five children on an elementary school playground. He then takes his own life.

December 16, 1988 - Atlantic Shores Christian School - Virginia Beach, Virginia. 16-year-old Nicholas Elliot shoots and kills teacher Karen Farley. Elliott is sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole.

September 26, 1988 - Oakland Elementary School - Greenwood, South Carolina. 19-year-old James Wilson, copying the Winnetka, Illinois murders, kills 8-year-olds Tequila Thomas and Shequila Bradley in their school cafeteria. Wilson's death sentence is overturned in January 2003.

May 20, 1988 - Hubbard Woods Elementary School - Winnetka, Illinois. 30-year-old Laurie Dann invades an elementary school and kills an 8-year-old boy. She injures six other people before taking her own life.

February 11, 1988 - Pinellas Park High School - Largo, Florida. Two 15-year-olds with stolen weapons, Jason McCoy and Jason Harless, shoot and kill Assistant Principal Richard Allen. McCoy serves two years in prison, and Harless serves eight.

March 2, 1987 - Dekalb High School - Dekalb, Missouri. 12-year-old Nathan Faris, who was teased about being overweight, shoots 13-year-old Timothy Perrin and then takes his own life.

December 4, 1986 - Fergus High School - Lewistown, Montana. 14-year-old Kristofer Hans shoots and kills substitute teacher Henrietta Smith. He is sentenced to 206 years in prison in 1988.

May 16, 1986 - Cokeville Elementary School - Cokeville, Wyoming. A couple in their 40s, David and Doris Young, take over an elementary school with a bomb and hold 150 children and adults hostage, demanding $300 million in ransom. The bomb accidentally detonates, setting the school on fire. Investigators later determine that during the fire David Young shot his wife and then killed himself. 74 people were injured in the fire.

January 21, 1985 - Goddard Junior High School - Goddard, Kansas. 14-year-old James Kearbey shoots and kills Principal Jim McGee. Kearbey spends seven years in juvenile detention and is released at the age of 21. On October 31, 2001, Kearbey is involved in a six-hour standoff with Wichita, Kansas, police. No injuries resulted and Kearbey is later acquitted of aggravated assault on a police officer.

February 24, 1984 - 49th Street School - Los Angeles. Sniper Tyrone Mitchell shoots at children on an elementary school playground, killing one and injuring 11. He later takes his own life.

January 20, 1983 - Parkway South Junior High - St. Louis. An unnamed 14-year-old shoots and kills another student before turning the gun on himself.

March 19, 1982 - Valley High School - Las Vegas. 17-year-old Pat Lizotte shoots and kills psychology teacher Clarence Piggott during class. Lizotte is sentenced to life in prison.

January 29, 1979 - Grover Cleveland Elementary - San Diego. 16-year-old Brenda Spencer opens fire on a school across from her home, killing the principal and janitor.

May 18, 1978 - Murchison Junior High School - Austin, Texas. 13-year-old John Christian shoots and kills his English teacher Wilbur Grayson, during class. The shooter is the son of George Christian, press secretary to President Lyndon Johnson from 1967 to 1969. After time in a psychiatric hospital, Christian attends high school in the Dallas area.

February 22, 1978 - Everett High School - Lansing, Michigan. 15-year-old Roger Needham kills another student who had bullied him. After four years in juvenile detention, Needham is released. He later earns a Ph.D in math and works as a professor in Missouri and New York.

March 18, 1975 - Sumner High School - St. Louis. 16-year-old Stephen Goods, a bystander, is shot and killed during a fight between other teens.

December 30, 1974 - Olean High School - Olean, New York. Honors student Anthony Barbaro kills a school janitor and two passers-by. Barbaro later kills himself while awaiting trial.

October 5, 1966 - Grand Rapids High School - Grand Rapids, Minnesota. 15-year-old David Black injures another student before killing teacher Forrest Willey.

September 15, 1959 - Edgar Allen Poe Elementary - Houston. Convict Paul Orgeron explodes a suitcase of dynamite on a school playground, killing himself, two adults and three children.

May 18, 1927 - Bath Consolidated Schoolhouse - Bath, Michigan. Farmer Andrew Kehoe sets off two explosions at the school, killing himself, six adults and 38 children.

The-CNN-Wire

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(FAUCETT, Mo.) A shortage of delivery drivers, warehouse workers, and food supplies is causing school districts across Missouri to make do.

Here in Northwest, Missouri, at least 19 district superintendents say they are dealing with issues with food supplies and deliveries. Many say they are adjusting their menus on the fly in order to keep school meals as normal as possible.

Were in our first week of school, everything is going great, and then its like, hey, our truck didnt make it, said Jay Albright, superintendent for Mid-Buchanan School District. Our kids have been super flexible because menus are changing at the drop of a hat.

Mid-Buch. received its first full delivery truck Wednesday morning. Until this point, the staff has made supplies stretch with shopping trips to local grocery stores and limiting student lunch menus to one cold and one hot option.

Stewartsville School District is also limiting its entrees to two options. Additionally, the district had to get creative to make sure it had enough milk and juice when deliveries dwindled.

Milk deliveries have become an issue. Theyre short drivers so were getting two deliveries a week instead of what wed really prefer which would be three, said Michael Stephenson, superintendent for Stewartsville. Fortunately weve had a milk cooler around in the district for probably 25-30 years that was in storage so we were able to pull it out clean it up, repair it so that gave us our extra storage for milk.

Stewartsville and Mid-Buchanan arent the only districts struggling. We reached out to the 57 school districts in the northwest region. Of the district superintendents who responded, two-thirds said they were dealing with food supply issues.

Many of the superintendents we spoke to said they did not blame their suppliers.

Opaa! had let us know in the mid-summer that shortages would be coming so we began stockpiling and making preparations. Its not so much of a supply issue for them. Its more of a delivery issue. Stephenson said.

Opaa! is one of the companies Missouri and Kansas school districts order food supplies from. The company provided a statement about its supply and delivery issues which reads in part, Food shortages, coupled with COVID-related quarantines and a limited supply of warehouse workers and delivery truck drivers, have resulted in delivery delays, product substitutions, and other challenges. But they have NOT changed our commitment to making high-quality, nutritious breakfasts and lunches available each day at no cost to every student we serve.

Heres where local districts stand and what information superintendents provided:

ANDREW COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Savannah R-3

The Savannah School District acknowledged its a very real concern for its schools and the food service department but spokesperson Jess Gillett said the district was not interested in providing any further comment on the subject at this time.

North Andrew

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

ATCHISON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Rockport

Superintendent Ethan Sickels says the Rockport School District was dealing with some food supply challenges but felt Opaa! was doing a wonderful job at making sure students in the district were fed and fed well.

Fairfax

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Tarkio

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

BUCHANAN COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Buchanan County

Superintendent Travis Dittemore said the district had only experienced a limited set of issues related to commodity deliveries. He said, Weve had to adjust menus a couple of times due to this but have had plenty of notice in order to do so.

East Buchanan

Superintendent John Newell said, We have been made aware of nationwide food shortages that may affect our menu. Our food service provider has taken steps to make sure we have enough nutritious meals daily, but sometimes have to adjust planned menu offerings based on unavailable items.

Mid-Buchanan

Superintendent Jay Albright says, Our food service company, Opaa!, is doing a great job of responding by "beating the pavement" to find supplies elsewhere. The immediate impact is that our food service company is now only able to offer one hot option and one cold option each day for lunch. Normally, they would be able to provide multiple hot options along with a cold option.

St. Joseph

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

CALDWELL COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Braymer

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Breckenridge

Superintendent Brent Skinner said the food provider just notified the district this week that some items are in short supply.

Cowgill

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Hamilton

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Kingston

Superintendent Andrea Hieronymus said the district was not experiencing school food supply issues at this time.

Mirabile C-1

Building Administrator Linda Storey said, We are experiencing some issues with our food supply. I believe it is mostly due to our provider getting limited shipments. Mirabile does not use Opaa. Instead, it contracts with Graves out of Jefferson City for its bulk orders.

Storey said in addition to food supply issues, the districts commodities through DESE have been delayed.

New York

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Polo

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

CLINTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Lathrop

Superintendent Chris Fine said Lathrop has had to cut back from offering three meal options at lunch to just offering one choice.

Cameron

Superintendent Matt Robinson said Cameron School District has not had any food supply issues so far this year.

Clinton County

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

DAVIESS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Gallatin

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

North Daviess

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Pattonsburg

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Tri-County

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Winston

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

DEKALB COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Maysville

Superintendent Chris Heslinga said the school district is dealing with some food supply issues.

Osborn

Superintendent Derek Brady said Osborn school district is not dealing with any food issues at this time.

Stewartsville

The following message was sent out to district families on August 31:  We are sure by this point you are aware we are experiencing a national supply issue. Given the supply issues, we have realigned our September menu, hoping we don't have to make any additional modifications. So at this point, there will be one entree and one salad menued each day. The best way to keep up with any meal changes is through our school web app. The app can be downloaded on any apple or android device. First, search your app store for "Stewartsville C2 School" Once you have downloaded the app, click on the dining tab to stay informed. We thank you for your continued support of all things Stewartsville.

Union Star

Superintendent Rick Calloway said Union Star is not experiencing food supply issues at this time.

GENTRY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Albany

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

King City

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Stanberry

Superintendent Bob Heddinger said, Our contracted food service provider has shared that they are experiencing some issues with their suppliers. While this has caused some adjustments for them I have not seen any difference in the product they are delivering for our students.

GRUNDY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Grundy County

Superintendent Phil Fox said Grundy County School District is not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

Laredo

Superintendent Misty Foster said Laredo is not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

Pleasant View

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Spickard

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Trenton

Superintendent Michael Stegman said Trenton School District is not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

HARRISON COUNTY SCHOOLS

Cainsville

We have certainly been one of the schools that have struggled to get food, said Ryan Rosenbaum, superintendent for Cainsville School District. However, I do know that the principal and I have spent a lot of time grocery shopping to try and provide food for our students.

Melanie Chaney, Cainsville Cook, said,  The first issue was when we received notice that the commodities would not be available for August and September. This notice forced the school to order from a wholesale company at a significant cost difference. Currently, some of the orders for September will be delivered, but not all of the products will be available, which will again cause the school to spend more money. I believe this was all due to a lack of a shipping company.

The wholesale company that we use is also having trouble getting products to fulfill orders. Some items are not being made anymore and some are being made but in different quantities. This makes it difficult for a small school like Cainsville RI because of storage.

Some of our local distributors are looking at cutting routes. This is because they can not get products and because so many of the restaurants and other businesses they deliver to have either closed or lacked business and do not order as they did previously.

South Harrison

Superintendent Dennis Eastin said South Harrison is experiencing many of the same issues as Cainsville. South Harrisons was notified that commodities ordered for August and September would not be available until later this fall. In addition to commodities, the district has been experiencing food supply issues. The districts staff has been making trips to the grocery stores to the gaps.

Gillman City

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

North Harrison

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Ridgeway

Superintendent Jonnie Beavers said Ridgeway School District is experiencing food supply issues.

HOLT COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Craig

Superintendent Mike Leach said the district is experiencing some issues but they are manageable.

I know it is a concern for our vendor,  Leach said. Craig being a small school, we are usually able to fill our main order with a few substitutions. For example, my cook informed me that if we want to serve turkey for Thanksgiving, then we need to order it now.

Mound City

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

South Holt

Superintendent Bob Ottman said South Holt School District is not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Chillicothe

Superintendent Dan Wiebers said Chillicothe School District is only experiencing some minor issues with food supplies at this time.

Livingston County

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

South Livingston

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

MERCER COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

North Mercer

Superintendent Dan Owens said North Mercer has experienced a few minor issues but nothing the district cant handle. Some of the ordered items from several of the schools vendors are not available at this time.

Princeton

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

NODAWAY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Jefferson

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Maryville

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

West Nodaway

Superintendent Mitch Barnes said West Nodaway has experienced a delay in commodities and Sysco informed the district it could not provide some of the items ordered. He added, However, we have used alternative suppliers to meet our needs. We have been working through Falls City Mercantile in Nebraska and they have been able to supply us.

North Nodaway

Superintendent Chris Turpine said North Nodaway was not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

Nodaway-Holt

Superintendent Jeff Blackford said Nodaway-Holt School District is experiencing issues and its supplier said the issue was that there was a shortage of employees and truck drivers.

South Nodaway

The District did not respond to KQ2s request for information.

Northeast Nodaway

Superintendent Brenda Dougan said Northeast Nodaway was not experiencing any food supply issues at this time.

WORTH COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Worth County

Superintendent Chris Healy said Worth County was experiencing issues getting products or deliveries from several of its providers.
BUTTE, Mont. - Just weeks after a handful of Montana rivers saw closures for low water flow, many of these popular fishing spots will be seeing upgrades in the near future. $417,000 have been set aside to help improve Montana fisheries after one of the worst drought seasons in years.

The funding comes from the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commissions Future Fisheries Improvement Program and is split across 14 different projects throughout the Treasure State.

One such project will take place south of Butte at the Big Hole River, one of the most notable water sources to undergo fishing closures in the past month. The volume of water flow should improve at the river as a result.

But as Mike Marcum of the StoneFly Fly Shop in Butte noted, the weather will have to play its part, too.

There is still a lot of good water around Montana, Marcum said. We hope for a big winter and hopefully we can fill reservoirs, fill the rivers, and do all that.

Another project involves trout populations, which have caused impending fishing closures due to unusually low numbers. Those upgrades are set to occur at Lick Creek south of Bozeman.

Theres no word yet on when these projects are set to begin construction, and the current closures at Big Hole River and Red Rock Creek will remain in place until Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks says otherwise.
School districts that have had funds withheld by their state or are otherwise financially penalized for implementing COVID-19 safety measures will soon be able to receive funding from a new grant program.

The U.S. Department of Education announced it will launch the new grant program, Project SAFE, as a part of President Bidens plan to combat COVID-19 and protect the health and safety of students, educators, families, and school communities.

Project SAFE, (Supporting Americas Families and Educators), anticipates using funding within the Department of Education from Title IV, Part F, School Safety National Activities, of the Every Student Succeeds Act.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, local school districts would apply for Project SAFE grants that will allow them to restore funding withheld by state leaders after putting measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Grant awards will be made directly from the Department to local education agencies.

Every student across the country deserves the opportunity to return to school in-person safely this fall, and every family should be confident that their school is implementing policies that keep their children safe, said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. We should be thanking districts for using proven strategies that will keep schools open and safe, not punishing them. We stand with the dedicated educators doing the right thing to protect their school communities, and this program will allow them to continue that critical work of keeping students safe.

A notice inviting applications for school districts to apply for the Project SAFE grant is planned to be released in the coming weeks.

Plans to make grant awards as expeditiously as possible and on an ongoing basis are to come soon as well.

In addition to the new grant program administered by the Department of Education, President Bidens plan includes actions to ensure schools can remain open for in-person learning and maintain the health and safety of students, staff, and families, the Departments release says. This includes calling on all states to adopt vaccine mandates for all school employees, encouraging schools to use American Rescue Plan and other federal funds to regularly test students and school staff for COVID-19, and using the Department of Educations full legal authority to protect students access to in-person instruction. As part of the American Rescue Plan, states and school districts were provided $122 billion in funds aimed at supporting the safe and sustained reopening of schools across the country.
UNITED NATIONS -- The United Nations development agency says Afghanistan is teetering on the brink of universal poverty which could become a reality in the middle of next year unless urgent efforts are made to bolster local communities and their economies.

It said the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan has put 20 years of steady economic gains at risk.

The U.N. Development Program outlined four scenarios for Afghanistan following the Talibans Aug. 15 assumption of power that predict the countrys GDP will decline between 3.6% and 13.2% in the next fiscal year starting in June 2022, depending on the intensity of the crisis and how much the world engages with the Taliban. That is in sharp contrast to the expected 4% growth in GDP before the fall of the government.

Afghanistan pretty much faces universal poverty by the middle of next year, Kanni Wignaraja, UNDPs Asia-Pacific Director, told a news conference Thursday launching its 28-page assessment. Thats where were heading -- its 97-98% (poverty rate) no matter how you work these projections.

Currently, the poverty rate is 72% and Wignaraja pointed to many development gains after the Taliban were ousted from power in 2001: Per capita income more than doubled in the last 20 years, life expectancy at birth was extended by about nine years, the number of years of schooling rose from six to 10, and we got women into university.

But she said Afghanistan now faces a humanitarian and development disaster resulting from political instability, frozen foreign reserves, a collapsed public finance system, a crush on local banking because of this, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.



HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

UNITED NATIONS -- The United States has a message for the Taliban: If it lives up to all its commitments, brings greater stability to Afghanistan and the region, demonstrates widespread inclusion, and protects the gains of the last 20 years well work with it.

But U.S. deputy ambassador Jeffrey DeLaurentis, who delivered the message at a U.N. Security Council meeting on Thursday, stressed that any legitimacy and support will have to be earned.

He said the standards the international community has set are clear and include facilitating safe passage for Afghans and foreign nationals who want to leave Afghanistan and respecting the countrys obligations under international humanitarian law including those related to the protection of civilians.

Were watching closely to see that those standards are met, he said.

DeLaurentis told the council that following the U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban takeover, Afghanistan needs the United Nations and the U.N. political mission in the country more than ever.

He said the United States remains committed to the people of Afghanistan, and as the countrys largest humanitarian donor it is helping partners on the ground provide assistance, but the needs are vast.

With the diplomatic footprint in the country reduced, DeLaurentis said, the U.N. has a vitally important role to play not only in coordinating aid but in preventing human rights violations and abuses and pursuing accountability for those that have occurred, and in protecting children and civilians.



BUCHAREST, Romania  Romanias foreign ministry says it has brought 139 Afghan citizens to its capital of Bucharest after initially evacuating them from Afghanistan to Pakistan.

Foreign affairs minister Bogdan Aurescu said Thursday that the evacuations were extremely complicated missions and that the arrival of the Afghans was a very emotional moment.

Romanian officials have said they have evacuated a total of 156 Afghans. Some had worked with Romanian troops in Afghanistan and the others are students with scholarships in Romania, journalists and human rights activists.

Romania has also repatriated 49 Romanian citizens and helped evacuate seven citizens of some allied states since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan.

Officials say eight Romanian citizens remain in Afghanistan and so far have not asked to be repatriated.



UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Afghanistan is urging the world to unite to prevent the economic collapse of the country, to address fears the Talibans Islamic state may spread to its neighbors and to fight terrorism.

Deborah Lyons warns that the Taliban have visibly welcomed and sheltered al-Qaida members and that Islamic State extremists remain active and could gain strength.

She told the U.N. Security Council on Thursday that it will have to decide what steps to take regarding many of the 33 members of the Taliban government who are on the U.N. sanctions blacklist, including the prime minister, the two deputy prime ministers and foreign minister.

Lyons says the humanitarian crisis is worsening and there is a looming crisis caused by donors freezing billions of dollars in Afghan assets. She says the fund freezes can cause a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger and may spark a refugee exodus and set the country back for generations.

She says ways must be found to provide humanitarian relief on a huge scale and quickly allow money to flow to Afghanistan to prevent a total breakdown of the economy and social order while creating safeguards to ensure the money is not misused by the Taliban authorities.

In Lyons words, The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender and counterterrorism perspective.

Lyons says that despite the Talibans statements of a general amnesty, the U.N. has received credible allegations of reprisal killings, the detention of officials who worked for previous administrations, house-to-house searches by Taliban who have seized property particularly in Kabul, and restrictions on women working and limitations to girls education in some regions.

Lyons says U.N. premises for the most part have been respected but its national staff has faced increasing harassment and intimidation.



ISLAMABAD  Pakistans foreign minister says the world community should not take steps that risk an economic collapse in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Quereshi on Thursday urged the international community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert a worsening humanitarian crisis.

His appeal came two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. At a news conference in Islamabad alongside Qatari counterpart Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Qureshi did not name any single country. But Qureshi said no strings should be attached to humanitarian assistance for Afghanistan.

The Taliban government currently does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve. These reserves were blocked amid last months political turmoil in Afghanistan.



WASHINGTON  U.S. veterans groups hope that news that private evacuation flights are starting up again for Western citizens in Kabul means Afghans considered at risk for past work with Americans will soon be able to leave again as well.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers, veterans groups and other American organizations and individuals have been pressing the Biden administration to do more to get out those vulnerable Afghans. They include thousands of Afghans who used to work with the U.S. military, and are eligible for what are known as Special Immigrant Visas.

James Miervaldis, a spokesman with a veterans group, No One Left Behind working on behalf of those Afghans, called the news, Awesome. Well start getting SIVs booked up.

Miervaldis said he had yet to hear a commitment from officials to get Afghan allies on the flights out as well as citizens. But veterans had talked with Secretary of State Antony Blinken last Friday, and let him know that the organizations working to get Afghans out have committed $2 million for commercial air fare out of Afghanistan.

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MOSCOW  Russian President Vladimir Putin says Moscow is interested in peace and stability in Afghanistan and in stopping the exodus of Afghans from the country, which has been triggered by the Talibans swift power grab last month.

Putin spoke at a summit on Thursday via videoconference to officials from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. He told BRICS leaders that Russia, just like its BRICS partners, consistently supports the establishment of the long-awaited peace and stability on the Afghan land.

Putin said Russia is interested in stopping the flow of migration" and wants Afghans to live peaceful and dignified lives in their motherland.

Moscow, which fought a 10-year war in Afghanistan that ended with the Soviet troops withdrawal in 1989, has made a diplomatic comeback as a mediator over the past few years, reaching out to the feuding Afghan factions, including the Taliban  even though Russia has labeled them a terrorist organization.

Unlike many other countries, Russia hasnt announced a pledge to take in Afghan refugees in the wake of the Talibans takeover of power. Putin has previous said that Moscow doesnt want militants appearing (in Russia) again under the guise of refugees.



MORE ON AFGHANISTAN:

 Taliban name caretaker Cabinet that pays homage to old guard

 US-built databases a potential tool of Taliban repression

 Blinken and Austin to visit Gulf to address postwar stresses

 Taliban say they took Panjshir, last holdout Afghan province

 Over 24 hours in Kabul, brutality, trauma, moments of grace

 Find more AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/afghanistan



ISLAMABAD  CIA Director William Burns has met with Pakistans powerful army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss the situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

In a statement, the military said regional security and developments in Afghanistan were discussed during the meeting Thursday. It didn't elaborate.

Pakistan remains committed to cooperate with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Afghan people," the statement said.

Burns thanked Pakistan for its role in the evacuation operations from Afghanistan and pledged further improvements in diplomatic cooperation with Pakistan.

Burns also met with Pakistans intelligence chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hamid, the statement said.



ISLAMABAD  Pakistan says Qatars foreign minister will arrive in Pakistans capital of Islamabad to discuss the latest situation in Afghanistan.

In a statement, Pakistans Foreign Ministry said Qatari chief diplomat Mohammad bin Abdulrahman Al Thani during his day-long visit Thursday will meet with Pakistans foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and other top officials.

It said Pakistan and Qatar enjoy close, cordial ties. The two countries closely collaborate on regional and global issues of common interest, the statement said.

The development comes two days after the Taliban announced an interim government for Afghanistan. The Taliban maintain a political office in Doha.



KABUL, Afghanistan  The interior ministry of the new Taliban government is seeking to end protests in Afghanistan after days of demonstrations that have brought heavy-handed assaults on protesters.

The minister has issued an order to end all protests in the country  unless demonstrators get prior permission, including approval of slogans and banners.

Its unlikely the women who have been leading near daily protest demanding their rights from the countrys hardline Islamic rulers will be allowed to protest under the new rules. In the words of the ministrys statement: It is announced to all citizens not to attempt at the present time to hold any demonstrations under any name whatsoever.



KABUL, Afghanistan  Former Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has taken to Twitter to say his flight from Kabul on Aug. 15 was done to save Afghanistans capital from bloodshed. He says his security personnel advised the secret departure, which opened the gates of the city to a Taliban takeover.

Ghani also denies widespread allegations of corruption as well as charges that he left the country with millions of dollars. He says there should be an independent investigation.

Ghanis sudden departure has been widely criticized both in Afghanistan and abroad. Washington blamed Ghanis flight and the governments collapse for a Taliban takeover ahead of a negotiated deal.

Prominent Afghan political figures who stayed behind say they had expected to meet with Taliban political leaders the following day to continue negotiations.
MANDAN, N.D. (AP)  A North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper shot and killed a man following a more than 20-mile pursuit on Interstate 94 in the western part of the state, authorities said Wednesday.

The patrol said the shooting happened at around 8:20 p.m. Tuesday about 13 miles west of Mandan. The trooper had joined Morton County sheriff's deputies in chasing a reported reckless driver.

The lone occupant of the vehicle, 45-year-old Craig Knutson, of Billings, Montana, was killed in the shooting. A gun was found in his vehicle, the patrol said.

Highway Patrol Maj. Thomas Iverson said Knutson died of a single gunshot wound. He declined to say whether Knutson had fired the gun or was holding it before the trooper shot him. Iverson also declined to say whether Knutson was inside or outside of his vehicle when he was shot and he refused to release the trooper's name.

Iverson said the trooper's dash camera did not capture the shooting because he had used his car to block the man's vehicle. Morton County Sheriff Kyle Kirchmeier said it wasn't immediately clear whether dash cameras on three deputies' cars recorded the shooting.

None of the officers were wearing body cameras.

Kirchmeier and Iverson said the pursuit began about 7 miles east of Hebron and ended after deputies placed spike strips on the highway and the trooper used his cruiser to push the fleeing vehicles rear end sideways, sending it into a spin.

Authorities would not say why Knutson fled.

The fleeing van-type vehicle was traveling at highway speeds but slowed to about 10 mph after the spike strips were deployed about 3 miles from where the shooting occurred, Kirchmeier said.

Iverson said after the vehicle stopped, the trooper saw that Knutson had a gun and told the three deputies at the scene about the weapon before he fired the fatal shot.

The case is being investigated by the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation. The trooper has been placed on standard administrative leave pending the investigation and a review by the Morton County State's Attorney.

Iverson said the last fatal shooing involving a trooper was in 2010.
RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  A statue of Gen. Robert E. Lee that towered over Richmond for generations was taken down, cut into pieces and hauled away Wednesday, as the former capital of the Confederacy erased the last of the Civil War figures that once defined its most prominent thoroughfare.

Hundreds of onlookers erupted in cheers and song as the 21-foot-tall bronze figure was lifted off a pedestal and lowered to the ground. The removal marked a major victory for civil rights activists, whose previous calls to dismantle the statues had been steadfastly rebuked by city and state officials alike.

Its very difficult to imagine, certainly, even two years ago that the statues on Monument Avenue would actually be removed, said Ana Edwards, a community activist and founding member of the Virginia Defenders for Freedom Justice & Equality. Its representative of the fact that were sort of peeling back the layers of injustice that Black people and people of color have experienced when governed by white supremacist policies for so long.

Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam ordered the statues removal last summer amid the nationwide protest movement that erupted after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer in Minneapolis. But litigation tied up his plans until the state Supreme Court cleared the way last week.

Northam, who watched the work, called it hopefully a new day, a new era in Virginia.

Any remnant like this that glorifies the lost cause of the Civil War, it needs to come down, he said.

The 21-foot (6-meter) bronze sculpture was installed in 1890 atop a granite pedestal about twice that tall. The sculpture was perched in the middle of a state-owned traffic circle, and it stood among four other massive Confederate statues that were removed by the city last summer.

A construction worker who strapped harnesses around Lee and his horse lifted his arms in the air and counted, Three, two, one! to jubilant shouts from the crowd as the crane prepared to wrest the statue away.

Some chanted Whose streets? Our streets! and sang, Hey, hey, hey, goodbye.

Once the statue was on the ground, the crew used a power saw to cut it in two along the generals waist, so that it could be hauled under highway overpasses to an undisclosed state-owned facility until a decision is made about its future.

The job was overseen by Team Henry Enterprises, led by Devon Henry, a Black executive who faced death threats after his companys role in removing Richmonds other Confederate statues was made public last year. He said the Lee statue posed their most complex challenge.

Within hours, the pieces were gone. They were hauled away on a flatbed truck to cheers from the remaining crowd and claps of thunder from a midday storm. The pedestal is to remain for now, although workers are expected to remove a time capsule from the structure on Thursday.

The work proceeded under a heavy police presence, with streets closed for blocks around the area, but no arrests were reported, and no counter protesters emerged.

Those who opposed the statues removal often noted its artistic significance and Virginias centrality to the Civil War. They argued that taking the statues down would amount to erasing a key part of the commonwealths history. As recently as several years ago, key government officials argued for keeping it in place.

After a rally of white supremacists in the city of Charlottesville erupted into violence in 2017, other Confederate monuments started falling around the country. But at the time, local governments in Virginia were hamstrung by a state law protecting memorials to war veterans. That law was amended by the new Democratic majority at the Statehouse and signed by Northam, allowing localities to decide the monuments fate as of July 1, 2020.

Del. Delores McQuinn, a Democrat whose district includes Richmond and who sponsored the 2020 war memorial legislation, said she used to avoid driving on Monument Avenue because she found the statues so offensive. Seeing Lee come down Wednesday was surreal, she said.

The fight, the struggle ... hopefully some of the ancestors feel vindicated, said McQuinn, who is Black and has been an outspoken advocate for a better telling of Richmonds Black history in public spaces.

State Sen. Jennifer McClellan, who represents Richmond and lives in the neighborhood, said the idea of the removal had long felt impossible, though that began to shift after Floyds murder, when the area around the statute became a hub for the growing protest movement and saw occasional clashes between police and demonstrators. The pedestal has been covered by constantly evolving, colorful graffiti, with many of the hand-painted messages denouncing police and demanding an end to systemic racism and inequality.

I physically felt in the air hope, if that makes sense, because I saw multigenerational, multiracial people chanting to take it down and demanding change, said McClellan, who is Black.

The changes to Monument Avenue have remade the prestigious boulevard, which is lined with mansions and tony apartments and is partly preserved as a National Historic Landmark district.

Northam, who after a 2019 scandal involving a racist photo in his medical school yearbook pledged to spend the rest of his term addressing Virginias racial inequalities, has tapped the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to lead a community-driven redesign for the whole avenue.

Christy S. Coleman, executive director of the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation and the former president and chief operating officer of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond, said she saw Wednesdays removal as a historical moment in the citys long-running struggle with how to tell its history.

That effort "is perfectly normal for communities to do  question who and what they are, what they value and how they want those values to be reflected, not only in the landscape, but in its laws, she said.
UPDATE: SEPT. 10 AT 4 A.M.

Due to recent spikes in COVID-19 cases, starting Monday, all Plains High School students will be remote learning. On top of that, all extracurricular activities will be canceled until Sept. 20.

To be clear, this is only for grades nine through 12. Kindergarten through eighth grade will still be on campus.

To read the school's full statement, click here.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE:

Due to a COVID-19 outbreak, Plains High School will be closed Sept. 9 for grades 9-12.

During the closure, no new school work will be assigned. High school teachers will be available to help students by answering emails, using Google Classroom and taking phone calls. On top of class being canceled, extra curricular activities are also canceled.

Right now, the school is conducting contact tracing in collaboration with the county health department. If your child has been affected, you'll be contacted.

Grades K-8 will be in class Thursday. Busses will run as normal, with breakfast and lunch also being served as normal.
With Laconia becoming a performing arts city, what supporting businesses do you think we need?
ROME, SEP 9 - Italian police said they had staged raids in several Italian cities on Thursday against anti-vax extremists. The operation targetted members of a group called the 'guerrieri' (the warriors) on the Telegram messaging app who were allegedly considering conducting acts of violence in protests against COVID-19 measures, above all the Green Pass vaccine passport. The raids took place in Rome, Milan, Venice and several other cities. Weapons such as knives and clubs were found during searches of suspects homes. (ANSA).
ROME, SEP 9 - Prosecutors said Thursday that they have concluded an investigation into alleged brutality at a southern Italian prison last year and sent notification to 120 guards and penitentiary department officials. This move usually comes before prosecutors make indictment requests. Guards allegedly went on a rampage of violence on April 6, 2020 at the at the jail at Santa Maria Capua Vetere near Caserta north of Naples, to punish inmates for rioting. Overcrowding and COVID fears sparked riots in several prisons at the height of the first lockdown last spring, when many inmates were hurt, and some died, mainly from overdoses of drugs pillaged from jail infirmaries. The suspects are accused of crimes include torture, abuse of authority, making false declarations and cooperation in the culpable homicide of an Algerian prisoner. A preliminary investigations judge (GIP) said prisoners were made to strip and kneel and beaten with guards wearing their helmets so as not to be identified in what he called "a horrible massacre". Some 15 men were also put into solitary without any justification, the GIP said. Police reportedly found chats on the suspects' phones including, before the alleged violence, saying "We'll kill them like veal calves" and "tame the beasts", and afterwards, saying "four hours of hell for them", "no one got away", and "(we used) the Poggioreale system", referring to a tough Naples prison. Some of the alleged rioters had their hair cut and beards shaved off. Justice Minister Marta Cartabia has said that CCTV footage of the violence showed that the officers had betrayed the Italian Constitution. (ANSA).
ROME, SEP 9 - Italian medicines agency AIFA's technical-scientific committee on Thursday approved giving people a third dose of COVID-19 vaccines. It said priority should go to the clinically vulnerable, such as the immunosuppressed, people who have had transplants, extremely elderly people and residents in care homes and highly exposed health workers. It said mRna vaccines like the Pfizer and Moderna ones should be used for the third jabs. It said the third jab should be done at least six months after the second, except for the immunosuppressed and people who have had transplants, for whom it should be done at least 28 days after. Health Minister Roberto Speranza said Monday that Italy will start giving a third dose of COVID-19 vaccines to groups of people considered especially fragile this month. "We'll have the third dose in Italy," Speranza said on Monday. "We'll start in September with fragile patients like oncology and transplant patients. "The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have already expressed opinions (in favour) on this. "So we'll start with the first third doses in Italy in September and then we'll analyse things to continue with the over-80s, care-home residents and health personnel, who were the first groups to get the vaccine" (ANSA).
Neighbor Keena Vos told aldermen Tuesday that the sound of a helicopter at the airport was loud enough to compare with the noise of a common kitchen blender running inside her home. Bringing the helicopter ambulances to Burlington, Vos said, would harm the quality of life for those already here.

You are turning Burlington into a Chicago suburb. Its a total shame, she said. The Burlington residents deserve better.

City officials recently arranged for Flight For Life to give aldermen a demonstration of one of its helicopters landing and taking off at the airport.

Several aldermen Tuesday expressed sympathy for the airports neighbors, and they briefly considered making noise mitigation part of the agreement with Flight For Life.

Alderman Bob Grandi called the helicopter ambulances a tipping point for an airport noise issue that has long been troubling neighbors and should be examined further.

We have a bigger issue that we cant keep denying, Grandi said. We need to figure out whats going on out there.
U.S. President Joe Biden's administration officials called on Trump appointees to resign from their posts at military service academies' advisory boards.

The Biden administration officials claimed that the decision was about qualification and not politics, according to The Washington Post report.

Included in the list of officials being asked to resign are former White House counselor Kellyanne Conway, then-White House press secretary Sean Spicer, and previous national security adviser H.R. McMaster.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed that they have asked for the resignation in efforts to ensure that they have nominees and people serving on these boards are qualified and align with the people's values.

The boards are made up of members of Congress and presidential appointees and serve for three years in an advisory purpose.

If they failed to resign, they could be fired.

The dismissals were made after The Pentagon had reorganized its advisory boards when it dismissed Trump appointees in February, according to a USA Today report.

READ NEXT: Not Invited: Mom of Marine Killed in Afghanistan Asks Donald Trump and Not Pres. Joe Biden to Attend Son's Funeral

Trump Appointees as Military Advisory Boards

Conway had fired back at Biden after hearing the move. She noted that she will not be resigning, adding that the president should.

Conway released a statement regarding the matter and said that it was a disappointing but understandable effort to distract people from the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, among other issues, according to a PBS News report.

Other people who were called to resign such as Jonathan Hiler also released their sentiments regarding the matter. Hiler is a Navy academy alumnus who served as director of legislative affairs for Vice President Mike Pence.

He also said that he will not be resigning, adding that he believes developing leaders capable of defending the country's interest is not something that should be affected by partisan politics.

Spicer also had something to say about the Biden administration's decision. He said that Psaki "crossed the line" with her comments regarding the matter, according to The Hill report.

Spicer said that press secretaries never comment on the previous press secretary or the current one, adding that he has respected that.

The former press secretary also noted that he's a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College and served under five different presidents.

Spicer noted that he will not be submitting his resignation and will be joining a lawsuit on the issue.

Biden on Afghanistan

Meanwhile, the president had missed a deadline on Tuesday set by a Republican senator demanding that Biden president the exact number of Americans, green card holders, and those with special immigrant visa applications still in Afghanistan.

Sen. Tom Cotton had taken Twitter to express his response on Biden snubbing the deadline.

Cotton said that the American people will not forget the president's incompetence and disregard for American lives, according to a Fox News report.

State Department Secretary Anthony Blinken noted on Tuesday that around 100 U.S. citizens are still in Afghanistan.

However, veteran-led rescue groups claim that the estimate is too low and overlooks the hundreds of permanent legal residents with green cards.

READ MORE: Sen. Mitch McConnell Says Pres. Joe Biden Won't Be Impeached Over Afghanistan, Says Hold Him Accountable at 'Ballot Box'

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Kellyanne Conway fires back after Biden administration asks her to resign - from CNN






Gavin Newsom and Larry Elder are both upping up their game days ahead of the California recall elections, as both of them engaged in tours on Wednesday, to fight for the governor post of the state. For their campaigns, Newsom was joined by Vice President Kamala Harris in the Bay Area while Elder went to the Venice neighborhood located in Los Angeles.

According to the latest poll from the Public Policy Institute of California, the recall effort in the state is likely to fail. However, Elder remains to be the gubernatorial candidate that will replace Newsom if more Californians voted to replace the current governor from his post.

READ NEXT: California Recall Election: Poll Shows Wide Majority of Latinos Oppose Removing Gavin Newsom From Office

Kamala Harris Joins Gavin Newsom in His Campaign

On Wednesday afternoon, Harris joined the California governor at an event held at the IBEW-NECA Joint Apprenticeship Training Center in San Leandro. Harris said that it was important for her to come to California to speak and support her "dear friend," ABC News reported.

During the campaign, Harris was full of praises for Newsom, touting some of the projects the California governor implemented. The vice president mentioned that over 22 million Californians were vaccinated due to the programs the governor implemented during the pandemic.

Harris was the latest big-name democrat to show support to Newsom in the recall elections. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden is expected to campaign for the California governor next week.

Apart from Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Barrack Obama also showed support and urged the Californians to vote no on the upcoming recall. Obama was featured on an ad campaign released Wednesday, as the former president touted Newsom's efforts to protect California against COVID-19.

NEW: This is the new @StopRepRecall ad featuring @BarackObama airing across California.



Obama says @gavinnewsom has worked to keep Californians safe during covid & that Republicans would reverse that. "Protect California by voting NO," he says.



via @Lissette_Rod @weisswatts pic.twitter.com/p2i5E7wGxI  Liz Kreutz (@ABCLiz) September 8, 2021

"Your vote could be the difference between protecting our kids and putting them at risk. Helping Californians recover or taking us backwards," Obama said in the ad campaign.

As Newsom continued to urge California voters to vote no on Tuesday's recall election, the California governor blasted his leading competitor, Larry Elder, highlighting the risks that may happen if the conservative radio host replaced him in the office.

"He said the first thing he'll do after he gets sworn in... is he will sign an executive order eliminating mask wearing for our kids in public schools," Newsom said. The governor furthered that Elder would also eliminate vaccine verification among healthcare workers.

Larry Elder Cuts Tour After an Egg Was Thrown at Him During Campaign

As Newsom continued to urge Californians to vote no on the recall elections, Larry Elder ended his campaign tour in Venice shortly after it began on Wednesday morning, after he was confronted by a group of angry homeless people. Elder was reported to spend at least 12 minutes in the Los Angeles neighborhood. A video posted online showed that a woman who was wearing a gorilla mask with a pink wig threw an egg in the direction of Elder's head. The video also revealed that the woman in the gorilla mask engaged in a verbal altercation with the gubernatorial hopeful's campaign member.

Breaking: A flying egg narrowly missed the back of recall candidate @larryelder's head after it was thrown by an activist wearing a gorilla mask in Venice. A scuffle broke out and the candidate was escorted into an SUV.



Here's the raw (pun intended)

CW: f-bombs@SpecNews1SoCal pic.twitter.com/FeFx3wnuSD  Kate Cagle (@KateCagle) September 8, 2021



On Wednesday night, Elder took to Twitter to announce that he canceled his "Recall Express" bus tour in the Los Angeles neighborhood, adding that his security detail was physically assaulted.

Today I kicked off the Recall Express bus tour. Before we even left Los Angeles, my security detail was physically assaulted, shot with a pellet gun, and hit with projectiles. The intolerant left will not stop us. We will recall Gavin Newsom. We will save California.  Larry Elder (@larryelder) September 9, 2021

Despite what happened, Elder said that the incident will not stop them from "recalling Gavin Newsom and saving California."

READ NEXT: Gov. Gavin Newsom Tours Around Southern California Ahead of Recall Elections, Some Democrats Show Support

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Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: California Recall Election: Larry Elder Says Democrats 'Know They're in Trouble' - From ABC7
United Airlines employees who have religious exemptions for vaccine mandate will be placed on a temporary unpaid leaving effective next month, citing reasons for the recent rise in COVID cases.

The airline had announced its vaccine mandate for its 67,000 workforces. However, it noted that it would consider exemptions for religious and personal beliefs, as well as medical reasons, according to a CNBC report.

United said that if an employee's request for religious exemption is denied, they should be vaccinated within five weeks of the reject notice, with the first shot on September 27 or they will be terminated.

The airline company had released a memo saying that with the dire statistics of COVID, they can no longer allow unvaccinated people back in their workplace until they have a better understanding of how these employees might interact with customers and vaccinated coworkers.

Pilots, flight attendants, and other customer-facing employees with religious exemptions will remain off indefinitely, according to a Reuters report.

United said that once the pandemic numbers have been meaningfully decreased, they will be welcomed back to the team on active status.

Other employees with religious exemptions can return to work, particularly those who are mechanics and dispatchers.

Airline office workers are still pending determination for their safety measures or if they need to come in at all.

READ NEXT: TikTok User Fat Trophy Wife Says She Was Removed From Alaska Airlines Flight for Wearing Crop Top

Airline Vaccine Mandates

Airline companies were earlier split on their decisions whether to require vaccination to their flight attendants and pilots.

United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines earlier said that they will be requiring vaccination to their employees, while Alaska Airlines were considering a similar mandate once the Food and Drug Administration gives one of the vaccines full approval, which the agency did for Pfizer.

Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines said that they are encouraging vaccination, but not requiring it, according to another CNBC report.

Meanwhile, Delta Air Lines had increased by $200 the insurance premiums of their unvaccinated employees due to the high costs of employees who are hospitalized with the virus.

Labor unions for pilots said that vaccines should remain voluntary for their members.

Some unions were also arguing that airlines could do more to jumpstart vaccination rates in their companies with incentives such as extra time off to get vaccinated.

Mike Klemm noted that about a third of the employees oppose the mandate.

Klemm is the president of an association representing 28,000 customer and ramp service workers at United.

United is currently offering days for workers who get vaccinated. However, Klemm noted that it should offer more.

He added that if the company were to increase the incentives, more people would be encouraged to be vaccinated.

United CEO, Scott Kirby, said that it was a highly charged decision and would invite criticism either way.

FDA granted its full approval to Pfizer, prompting government officials to call private companies to mandate vaccines in their workforce.

READ MORE: American Airlines Cancels Almost 400 Flights Over Staff, Maintenance Issues

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: More than half of previously unvaccinated United Airlines employees got shots after mandate - from CNBC Television






After being upset numerous times about the poor condition of a private road close to his Florida business, a Florida man came up with a creative solution by planting a banana pothole to warn motorists away from possible accidents and damages.

A Creative Pothole Solution

According to the Associated Press, Bryan Raymond planted the banana tree in a pothole along Honda Drive just off U.S. 41 in south Fort Myers last week. Raymond, who is the business owner of Progress and Pride Fitness Group stated that he came up with the idea of planting the banana tree after he filled up the holes with cement numerous times.

Based on the county officials, since Honda Drive is a private street, business owners were in charge of its maintenance.

For Raymond, the banana tree idea was just an attention-getter for a solid repair. And since the pothole was deep enough to fit the tree, Raymond said that it seemed like the perfect statement.

In his interview, Raymond shared that he wanted to make sure that nobody gets hurt during their maintenance. He also said that he put something obvious in the pothole to avoid a possible accident.

For some time, Raymond's security cameras have captured a series of problems along the street. The footage revealed that the pothole damaged cars and floodwaters causing his trash bin to float away, ABC News reported.

READ MORE: Vulnerable Streams Caught by Trump's Ruling Highlighted in New Study

Commending the Banana Idea on the Florida Road

A number of individuals who are working along the road shared that anything is better than potholes. Scott Shein, a worker at a nearby business, SWFL RV Sales and Rentals, shared his opinion about the banana tree idea.

"I love it, I think it's hilarious. We should have more of these. I think it is sending a message," Shein said.

Shein added that he's seen a lot of cars hit a pothole on the street and bottom out which is a real concern.

Also, Charlie Lopez, a resident living in nearby Cape Coral, agreed on what Shein said.

"It messes up your tire, messes up the rim and then it basically messes up your day," Lopez said.

Moreover, the idea of planting a banana tree in a pothole was a great solution to avoid damages, but for some, though, the sight of a tree brings disbelief.

"I pulled up and I'm like, is that really a tree in the middle of the road?," John Hulker, a resident of Fort Myers said during his interview with WINK-TV.

Furthermore, after the tree was planted, a number of local drivers showed support for the move and commended Raymond for having a sense of humor about the getting the attention of business owners about the situation.

READ NEXT: Mother Dies, Son Critically Injured When Suspect Ran Red Light, Garland Police Says

This article is owned by Latin Post

Written By: Jess Smith

WATCH: Banana tree planted in Florida pothole-WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando
The National Archives and Records Administration had put on "harmful content" alert on America's founding documents, including the Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights.

NARA had determined it harmful for some users to view due to "outdated, biased, offensive, and possibly violent views and opinion", according to The Blaze report.

The agency had a "Harmful Language Alert" on its entire online catalog, wherein users are redirected to NARA's "Statement on Potentially Harmful Content" when they click the alert link.

NARA explains in their statement that it is their charge to preserve and make available the said historical records, and with that harmful content will be preserved.

The records agency also included specific types of harmful or difficult content that can be found through the documents such as those reflecting racist, sexist, ableist, misogynistic, and xenophobic opinions and attitudes.

READ NEXT: George Floyd's Family Agrees to 'Historic' $27 Million Settlement With Minneapolis

Harmful Content Alert

The agency also noted that some of the documents might be discriminatory or exclude diverse views on sexuality, gender, religion, among others, according to The Federalist report.

The documents might also include graphic content of historical events such as violent death, medical procedures, crime, wars, and natural disasters.

The agency explained that they would work in collaboration with diverse communities to bring balance while preserving the history with sensitivity to how these materials are presented to and perceived by users.

NARA's Task Force on Racism had reported earlier that the agency's flagship building serves as an example of "structural racism" due to it lauding "wealthy White men in the nation's founding while marginalizing other communities.

The task force had also recommended that "trigger warnings" be installed with historical content to forewarn users of content.

NARA released a statement to address the possibly harmful content.

The agency noted that its archivist picks what language to use when it comes to determining the materials.

It added that archivists often re-uses language provided by creators or former owners of the materials, noting that it can provide important content.

However, it argued that it can also reflect biases and prejudices, according to American Military News report.

Update Language of the Constitution

Last December, lawmakers on Capitol Hill were aiming to remove the "slavery loophole" from the U.S. Constitution.

Democrats introduced the Abolition Amendment to current the adoption and ratification of the 13th Amendment.

The said joint resolution would remove the "punishment" clause from the amendment, which would effectively allow members of prison populations to be used as cheap and free labor, according to an NPR report.

Sen. Jeff Merkley said that slavery is the nation's original sin, noting that the said loophole has been exploited for far too long to criminalize Black and Brown Americans.

Rep. Lacy Clay said that no American should ever be subjected to involuntary servitude, even if they are imprisoned.

Several companies had used the imprisoned population for their operations. These businesses include Walmart, AT&T, Whole Foods, and Victoria's Secret

READ MORE: George Floyd Suspect Derek Chauvin Beats 3rd-Degree Murder Charge Against Him

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Written by Mary Webber

WATCH: The American Constitution's Limitations on Abolishing Slavery - from George Washington's Mount Vermon






At least three people were arrested on Wednesday in connection to the stealing of the identities of several Florida condo collapse victims, that were utilized for shopping online.

Prosecutors announced that Betsy Alexandro Cacho Medina, Rodney Choute, and Kimberly Michael Johnson, were arrested and federally charged after they stole at least seven identities from the victims of the Florida condo collapse. The suspects, aged 30, 38, and 34 respectively, were reported to be from Northeast Miami-Dade.

READ NEXT: Florida Condo Collapse: Final Missing Person Identified, Closing the Search Efforts for Reported Missing Victims in the Site

3 Suspect Federally Charged After Stealing Identities from Florida Condo Collapse Victims

The three suspects that were arrested were accused of using the information of the tragedy's victims to go on "exorbitant" shopping sprees, NBC News reported.

Furthermore, the three were also accused to use the information of the condo collapse victims to get or replace credit cards.

In a news conference on Wednesday, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle said that the suspect immediately started purchasing between July 7 and 9. The state attorney furthered that in just two days, there were 28 attempted transactions, including at an ATM at Aventura Mall which was recorded on a closed-circuit TV.

Some purchases of the suspect included a pair of Medusa Sandals amounting to $374 and a Versace purse valued at nearly $1,700. Other purchases include goods at Target. Moreover, Rundle also noted that the suspects stole at least $45,000 using the identities of the Florida condo collapse victims. The trio tried to make an additional $67,000 worth of withdrawals and purchases but was unsuccessful.

Among the federal charges slammed to the suspects include organized schemes to defraud, trafficking in credit cards, and use in fictitious identification and identity theft. A $1 million bond was set for Medina, $500,000 for Johnson, and $430,000 for Choute. If convicted, each suspect faces up to 15 to 30 years of imprisonment.

Identity Theft Among Florida Condo Collapse Victims Discovered

State Attorney Rundle mentioned that the incident was first noticed by Nicole Ortiz, sister of Ana Ortiz who died in the Florida condo collapse tragedy.

The sister claimed that she noticed strange emails showing up on the victim's iPad, sharing a change of address, contact information, and password changes on Ortiz's bank accounts and credit cards. Nicole Ortiz also shared that she saw emails with a connection to money transfers.

Ana Ortiz was one of the seven victims whose identity was stolen. Reports reveal that five of the identity theft victims died during the June 24 tragedy that killed at least 98 people.

Rundle said that Medina was recorded ordering for a replacement credit under Ana Ortiz, and asked that it be sent to Hallandale Beach. Rundle highlighted that the trio did not occupy the home. Instead, they used the residence as a drop location for the credit cards.

Another victim identified as S.K. also claimed that her federal assistance that she asked from FEMA was also changed to be sent in Hallandale.

As the suspects who stole the identities of Florida condo collapse victims were placed under the custody of the authorities, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said that the crime committed by the trio were "abhorrent."

READ NEXT: Florida Condo Collapse Victims and Families to Receive At Least $150 Million Compensation, Judge Rules

This article is owned by Latin Post

Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Arrests Made in Identity Theft Targeting Florida Condo Collapse Victims - From CBS Evening News
Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said on Tuesday in front of his 114,000 supporters that only God can remove him from power and take him out of Brazil.

Bolsonaro had also fired fresh attacks on Congress and the Supreme Court, saying that these institutions are persecuting him and his political allies, according to a BBC News report.

The Brazilian president is currently facing several investigations after the court recently approved it.

Meanwhile, his approval rating continues to dip down with a poll by Atlas Institute suggesting that 61 percent of Brazilians noted his government's performance as bad or very bad.

The said rating had increased from 23 percent when he first took office in January 2019.

Bolsonaro is portraying himself to be a victim of the attacks of Congress and the Supreme Court.

He told evangelical leaders last week that he has three alternatives for his future, which as being arrested, killed, or victorious.

Evangelical leaders are among Bolsonaro's staunchest backers.

READ NEXT: Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro to Return to Work After Spending Nearly a Week in Hospital

Rallies During Brazil's Independence Day

Protesters had gathered in the streets of Brazil on Independence Day to show support to the Brazilian president, while there were also others who went against the president.

Heavy security measures were installed in major cities including Brasilia and Sao Paulo to avoid clashes, according to an Aljazeera report.

The president had intended to attend rallies in both Brasilia and the economic capital Sao Paolo.

Bolsonaro earlier said that the Supreme Court judges should consider the rallies an "ultimatum."

Bolsonaro had also claimed that he cannot accept a voting system that does not offer any security in the elections, dubbing it a farce sponsored by the head of the electoral court.

However, Bolsonaro's critics said that he is planting doubts in an attempt to allegedly challenge the results of the 2022 presidential elections, which will be held in October 2022, according to a Reuters report.

Leftist leaders have urged followers to avoid clashes by skipping counter-demonstrations.

Supreme Court's Investigation

Supreme Court Justice Rosa Weber had approved to open an investigation against Bolsonaro, saying that it is supported by recent testimony in a Senate committee looking at the government's response to the pandemic.

Prosecutors will investigate whether Bolsonaro had committed "prevarication," which means delaying or refraining from action due to personal interest, according to an Associated Press News report.

The probe comes after the chief of the Health Ministry's import decision, Luis Ricardo Miranda, said that he faced pressure to sign off on the import of 20 million vaccines from Bharat Biotech.

Miranda noted that there were irregularities in the invoices, including a $45 million upfront payment to a Singapore-based company.

Bharat Biotech is an Indian pharmaceutical company.

Bharat has denied any wrongdoing in regards to the vaccine supply, while Bolsonaro has denied any knowledge of corruption.

He further said that he cannot know what happens within his ministries.

Miranda had testified with his brother, Luis Miranda, who is a lawmaker recently allied with Bolsonaro.

The Miranda brothers had brought their concern directly to the Brazilian president, who told them that he would report it to the Federal Police.

However, the Federal Police denied having received any request to probe.

READ MORE: Brazil Forced To Suspend COVID Vaccine Second Doses After Shortage

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: 'Only God will take me out of Brasilia', defiant Bolsonaro says - from Al Jazeera English






Taliban authorities have agreed to let 200 American civilians and third-country nationals, who were stuck in Afghanistan, to leave via charter flights from the Kabul airport, a U.S. official said.

According to Reuters, the unnamed U.S. official said the Taliban were pressed to allow the departures by U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Thursday.

However, the official could not say if these Americans and third-country nationals were among people stranded for days in Mazar-i-Sharif because their privately chartered planes had not been allowed to leave.

Reports said some planes chartered to carry people out of the torn-war country had been stuck at Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport, with some organizers accusing the U.S. State Department of not doing enough to facilitate their departure.

Leaked Email Reveals State Department Blocking Rescue Flights

A leaked email revealed that the State Department has refused to greenlight some privately chartered planes out of Afghanistan. The said flights could have evacuated American citizens and Afghans who wanted to be out of the country.

Based on a Daily Mail report, military lawyer and retired Marine Eric Montalvo opened up about the details of the email to Fox News after he organized some of the flights himself. He claimed that the federal government had thwarted his rescue effort.

The leaked email showed that officials from the State Department refused to allow Montalvo's privately paid flights to use U.S. properties either inside American soil or in any of its overseas bases.

The officials cited possible security threats from landing charter planes at military bases. They said they lack the resources on the ground to thoroughly verify flight manifests.

The September 1 email read that no independent charters are allowed at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Defense Department base, and "most if not all countries in the Middle Eastern region," except for "perhaps Saudi Arabia."

An official suggested Montalvo to look to a different destination country for help. The official added that it "can't be the U.S. either."

READ NEXT: Afghan Soldiers Who Received Training From U.S. And British Forces Now Fighting for the Taliban, U.K. Army Sources Say

Last Jew leaves Afghanistan After Taliban Takeover

The last member of the Jewish community in Afghanistan left the country. Despite being born in the country and considered it his home, Zebulon Simentov has left Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover last month.

The 62-year-old Jew lived in a dilapidated synagogue in Kabul, kept kosher, and prayed in Hebrew while enduring decades of war. Afghanistan's centuries-old Jewish community has dwindled over the past years.

An Israeli-American businessman who runs a private security group that organized the evacuation, Moti Kahana, shared that Simentov has lived under the Taliban rule and was not worried about them.

However, Kahana warned him that he was at risk of being killed by the far more radical ISIS group. The ISIS group was responsible for last month's terrorist attack at Kabul's airport that resulted in the death of 13 U.S. service members and 169 Afghans.

READ MORE: Leaked Email Reveals State Department Blocking Rescue Flights From Afghanistan Even With Americans on Board: Report

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Written by: Jess Smith

WATCH: Planes Carrying Americans Prevented From Leaving Afghanistan - From NBC News
Editorial  Justice is in the eye of the beholder
Portland, TN (37148)

Today

Thunderstorms likely this morning. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High around 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Rain showers this evening with clearing overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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.
Its been a whirlwind of a year in Kildare Toastmasters, according to group PRO, Edel Reynolds.

"Weve seen the club double in membership despite the pandemic, weve welcomed many new members and seen members progress their skills significantly all while having fun along the way. Weve zoomed into meetings as far away as Hawaii and Lagos and as local as Athy and Newbridge," she said.

"Our club contest winners this year were Edward Keogh, Lorraine Howard and Peter McAuley. Congratulations to Edward Keogh, who represented Kildare in the Area 28 Humourous Speech Contest and to Lorraine, who represented Kildare in the Area 8 International Speech Contest.

"Peter was awarded first place in the area 28 evaluations contest and went to on be placed second in the Division D Final, a huge achievement, well done Peter."

Edel explained how the club had the opportunity, when restrictions allowed, of having successful events this year.

"We participated in the Irish Makers Market in the Square in Kildare Town. We really appreciated being

part of this fantastic initiative."

They also took part in the Tour of The National Stud.

"A huge thanks you to our friends in the National Stud who facilitated some tours for our members. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour and the racing experience. We have a number of joined meetings during the year with other clubs, but the icing on the cake was our International Meeting back in May, with a theme of building connections, attended by 50 toastmasters representing 22 counties. What a joy that night was," added Edel.

The end of year awards were presented to -

Toastmaster of the year: Anthony Madden

Communications Award: Edel Reynolds

Presidents Award: Declan Prendergast

Appreciation Award: Matty Behan

Further congratulations to Anthony, who was awarded an Innovative Public Relations Award from District 71, recognising his exceptional contribution to Toastmasters this year and to Matty Behan, who was awarded the Division N Best Event Timer.

The club's AGM was held on June 22. President, Anthony Madden thanked the outgoing committee, for their massive contribution to their club - Vice President Education, Rob Healy, Vice President Membership, Dwayne Patel, Vice President

Pubic Relations, Edel Reynolds, Treasurer, Peter McAuley, Secretary, Lorraine Howard and Sergeant at arms, Edward Keogh. Special thanks were given to Ryan Loney for assisting the Vice President of Education.

The 2021-2021 Kildare Toastmasters Committee were elected by members as follows: President, Lorraine Howard, Vice-President Education, Declan Prendergast and Peter McAuley, Vice President Membership, Ricardo Olguin, Vice President Public Relations, Angela Onwukwe Treasurer, Peter McAuley, Secretary, Ryan Loney, Sergeant-at-arms, Matty Behan.

Edel congratuled the new committee, who have been busy over the summer making plans for the next

season.

"Congratulations to David Clinton, our member who achieved the Distinguished Toastmaster Award

(DTM). This is an award which only a small percentage of toastmasters achieve each year, well done David! Congratulations to Rob Healy who was recently accepted to the Doctorate of Engineering programme in the University of Limerick, best of luck Rob! Our meetings take place on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month, starting at 7.20pm, the next one is on September 14. Stay tuned to our Facebook and new Instagram page, Kildaretoastmastersirl for details for our upcoming meetings. Guests are always welcome," she concluded.
A Kildare politician has hit out at the HSE in defense of staff at Naas General Hospital, who he says are being made to work under "unbearable" conditions.

Fianna Fail Councillor Daragh Fitzpatrick informed The Leinster Leader about his stay at the hospital for a recent illness, following his release from the facility today.

Cllr Fitzpatrick commended the care he received from hospital staff during his ten-day stay, referring to it as being "absolutely second to none". However, he criticised the conditions that staff had to contend with during their shifts at work.

He said: "The morale is on the floor. It's so intense, all the time. The A&E (department) is an absolute disaster."

Cllr Fitzpatrick also revealed that he was moved twice from wards due to them being needed for COVID-19 patients.

He detailed how one nurse was solely in charge of the subsequent ward he was treated in.

"She had to do everything... spoon feed patients, change nappies... I felt so sorry for her. That level of work is not acceptable in society in Ireland."

He elaborated that there were some days where the wards didn't have any care assistants present to aid patients and medical staff.

Mr Fitzpatrick expressed the view that healthcare staff are being turned off regarding the prospect of working at hospitals due to the exhausting workload, and are instead opting to work at vaccination centres, which they would receive roughly the same level of pay for.

He added that he imagines that this is also the reason why some healthcare staff are leaving the country to instead work abroad.

Regarding recent criticisms made by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation regarding management and conditions at Naas Hospital, Cllr Fitzpatrick said that he "backs them 100 per cent."

"You can get this information by asking any medical staff member working at the moment."

"I have no idea how to fix the situation at Naas Hospital," he added.
AIB has written to customers in North Leitrim to inform them that, from December 6 the branch will no longer offer over the counter transations such as cash, cheques, coin, foreign exchange and bank drafts.

The news has come as yet another blow for the town which is set to lose its Bank of Ireland branch at the end of this month.

This means that from October only one bank and just one branch will be serving the areas of the county lying north of Carrick-on-Shannon and Ballinamore.

Cllr Felim Gurn has expressed his anger and frustration at AIB's decision, especially in the wake of Bank of Ireland's closure announcement. He said that it was unfair to businesses and to the people of the town.

In a statement to www.leitrimobserver.ie, an AIB spokesperson confirmed the changes set to come into play in early December adding that over the counter transactions such as cash, cheques, coin, foreign exchange and bank drafts "will still be available at AIB Sligo, 26.2 km away, Carrick-on-Shannon, 48 km away or at any other full-service AIB branch".

In recent years, weve seen an unrelenting reduction in some of the ways our customers use our branches. More customers are banking online, using our mobile app and making contactless payments. Customers are now interacting with our digital app more than 1.54 million times a day, compared with 35,000 daily branch visits. At the same time, weve found that there has been a 39% decline in branch cash transactions since 2019," said the AIB spokesperson.

Manorhamilton customers will still be able to use the bank's cash and cheque lodgement machines to deposit cash and cheques and withdraw money. The spokesperson also said: "our dedicated team will still be on hand to help. Additionally, with AIB at An Post we will continue to support customers at their local post office in Manorhamilton, 0.3 km away, where they can carry out the majority of their day-to-day banking transactions."

Customers can also use digital alternatives and, in the case of businesses, AIB Merchant Services.

"At AIB we are committed to our branch network, have a strong presence in the communities we serve and with 170 branches continue to have the largest branch network in the country," pointed out the bank spokesperson.

The changes come as some of AIBs branches move towards sales and advisory services including personal and small and medium enterprise account opening and lending, mortgage lending, deposits and investments, general insurance, customer service queries and domestic and international payments.

"Customers with any questions can contact us online, over the phone, on social media or in branch where we will be happy to help them," continued the spokesperson.
Sligo University Hospital continues to manage an outbreak of Covid-19, which is impacting a number of wards. Visiting restrictions will continue on all impacted wards, in line with national guidance.

While the hospital continues to deal with the outbreak, the public is urged only to visit the hospital if absolutely necessary.

The hospital is following the national public health guidance in relation to the management of suspect cases, confirmed cases and close contacts. COVID-19 testing and contact tracing of both staff and patients is being carried out.

Grainne McCann, General Manager of Sligo University Hospital urged the public to assist the hospital in dealing with this outbreak.

Sligo University Hospital is dealing with Covid-19 outbreaks in multiple wards. In order to keep all our patients and staff safe we are appealing to the public not to visit the hospital unless absolutely necessary. Keeping footfall to a minimum is a key aspect to combatting Covid,"she said.

People coming to the hospital must continue to follow all the public health guidance including wearing a face mask and using hand gel regularly. Partners can continue to attend the maternity department while parents and guardians may visit the paediatric department.

Sligo University Hospital is also requesting that where possible, approved visitors will have received a Covid-19 vaccination, in order to minimise the risk to patients.

Where a hospital visit is possible, one visitor will be allowed between 6pm to 8pm with any visits pre-arranged by family members / visitors by contacting the relevant ward or Unit in advance. Visitors are required to complete a screening checklist regarding COVID-19, prior to visiting the hospital.

It is also recommended that children do not visit the hospitals, unless agreed in advance on compassionate grounds, with the ward / Unit manager.

Hospital appointments are going ahead

People who have outpatient or other appointments at the hospital are advised that they should still attend their appointment unless contacted by a member of staff from the hospital and advised not to attend.

People should come to their appointments no earlier than ten minutes before the allotted time alone to help with social distancing, unless the support of another person is essential.

Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, awaiting a COVID-19 test or test result or has had a positive test within the last 14 days should call the number on their appointment letter to rearrange their appointment.
A WOMAN who is suspected of murdering a young boy in Limerick earlier this year has been released after she was arrested for a second time.

The woman, whose aged in her 20s, was one of two people who were questioned and released without charge last month pending further investigation and directions from the DPP.

She was re-arrested yesterday morning on foot of a warrant issued by a District Court Judge under the provisions of Section 10 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984. This legislation allows for a suspect to be re-arrested when new information comes to light.

The woman was detained and questioned at Roxboro Road garda station and has since been released without charge.

"A file will now be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions," confirmed a garda spokesperson this Thursday morning.

The four-year-old boy sustained serious head injuries following an incident at a house at Rathbane in the city on March 13, 2021.



Having been initially treated at University Hospital Limerick, he was transferred to Children's Hospital Ireland at Temple Street in Dublin where he died a number of days later.

A full garda investigation was launched following his death and it was formally upgraded to a murder inquiry over the summer.
A LIMERICK property letting agent has suggested the anti-social behaviour of some students has resulted in many landlords either selling up, or renting to professionals instead.

This week, the Limerick Leader has highlighted a surge in demand for student accommodation units, with suggestions demand has spiked 30% since 2016, while the supply of property has fallen.

Kersten Mehl, who runs KMPM in Shannon Street, claims students have reaped what theyve sewn, and said theres simply no rooms left for them.

The real difficulty is the students have caused a lot of difficulty for agents and landlords during Covid-19. The second Covid [lockdown], it was like party time. For example, as an agent, Id have had 32 properties rented to students before Covid-1 [the first lockdown]. Now Id have around 12, he said.

Mr Mehl added: I would have no student properties if I could, but there are some in the heart of student land, and no-one else would rent them,

He said one of the student properties he manages saw damage worth 4,660, something he described as his worst experience in 44 years.

In a statement, UL Student Life said it is short sighted and unfair to paint all students with this same brush and suggest that blame falls solely on the students for the lack of accommodation availability.

The community here is, in many ways, a microcosm of our society at large, so a lack of accommodation here speaks to the national issue we all face, the group added.

They said that while there have been some negatives over the years involving a small minority of students, we believe it is not right to dwell on that and, overall, we feel that our students are good neighbours and a positive presence.

Mr Mehl said new laws set to be brought in by Housing Minister Darragh OBrien which make it illegal for a landlord to ask for more than a months rent deposit, has reduced the insurance of landlords in case of damage to the home.

Aine Daly, the president of the students' union of the soon-to-be-formed Technical University of the Shannon said the bill which will outlaw the semester-by-semester paying is a welcome move.

She said: It gives the students the opportunity of renting accommodation and paying monthly rather than per semester which can grow up to 3,000 which segregates a lot of students from accessing them. Housing is fundamental for students accessing and participating in student life, the image of seeing students as cash cows shouldnt exist.

Roisin Burke, the president of Mary Immaculate Colleges student union added: Covid-19 impacted all of us, including students, and we are aware that there were landlords or agents who were unwilling to support or to recognise that students were put in a difficult position when academic delivery moved online at the beginning of the Covid pandemic and they were required to move home.
LIMERICK GAA supporters and the wider public have been praised for the responsible way they celebrated the hurlers recent All-Ireland success.

The head of the Limerick garda division has revealed there were no major incidents associated with the victory over Cork at Croke Park on August 22 while the Health Service Executive says there is no evidence of a spike in Covid-19 cases associated with the final.

At the beginning of the quarterly meeting of the Limerick Joint Policing Committee, Chief Superintendent Gerard Roche moved to congratulate the Limerick hurlers on their back-to-back All-Ireland success  both on and off the pitch.

He said he wanted to put it on the record that, from a policing perspective, the team and its fans have shown a great example to the whole country over the past two seasons.

We havent had one incident  not one incident connected with any of it in the last two years and considering how challenging that was and given the young people involved in the team and everything  most of them are under the age of 28  we had absolutely nothing on social media or otherwise - and I think its a credit to them and I have to take my hat off to them, he said.

A policing plan was put in place around the All-Ireland final weekend and Chief Superintendent Roche said the whole country is ringing me wondering how it was managed given the lack of any significant incidents. I said its down to the team and down to the fans as well  they all behaved extremely well, he said.

He told the virtual meeting there were a number of high-level coordination meetings with stakeholders in advance of last months All-Ireland final as there were some concerns about the celebrations and the potential for a spike in Covid cases.

However, the head of the HSEs test and trace service, Niamh OBeirne, has separately confirmed it has not detected any significant increases in Covid cases in Limerick associated with the All-Ireland final or the associated celebrations.
ADARE will don the mantle of Poetry Town over the next two weekends, becoming one of 20 towns around the country to be included in the innovative Poetry Towns scheme.

The scheme, which is an initiative of Poetry Ireland, will also see Adares newly appointed poet laureate, Ed ODwyer, unveil his newly-minted poem about Adare.

Andrew Timoney of Draiocht has taken on the task of co-ordinating the local programme for Poetry Town with many of the events taking place outdoors.

The fun kicks off on Saturday, when Kate Quigley, a young poet from Kerry will team up with poet and musician Michael Durack from Birdhill, to read some of their recently published work.

These readings will take place at the Saturday Market outside the Village Hall and people are being invited to grab a coffee and come along for a taste of the spoken word starting at 10am and continuing on a come and go as you please basis.

Then on Sunday, the local town park will become a hothouse of the spoken word with readings and performances from half a dozen poets. These will include John Liddy the Madrid-based Limerick poet whose recently launched Arias of Consolation is a powerful homage to Limerick, past and present.

He will be joined by Adare poet laureate Ed ODwyer, Gabribel Fitzmaurice, Jessica Brown, Kieran Beville and Mike MacDomhnall. This also will be an event where listeners can pick and choose.

The key to Poetry Town is that it is poetry or the spoken work in a relaxed setting and accessible to all, says Andrew.

It has been very much a community endeavour, he adds, with the local Business Association, the Tidy Towns Committee and the Village Hall, all rowing in to help.

I love the whole notion, Andrew adds. I think it is a very natural fit with the village and not unlike the En Plein Air event which got a huge response from local people.

His hope is that local people and people from towns and villages around will drop into Adare over the weekend and dip into the different poetry offerings.

The community here in the village welcomes the Poetry Town initiative and Poetry Ireland to Adare, he continues.

The following weekend, Saturday, September 18, there will be what Andrew is calling the big reveal when Adare poet laureate Ed ODwyer will give the first public reading of his new poem about Adare.

But the event will also give a nod to old Adare with Prionsias MacMahon reciting a short Sean O Riada piece in this, the 90th anniversary year of ORiadas birth and George Stacpoole giving a rendition of Gerald Griffins O Sweet Adare. There will also be short poetry readings by Breda Spaight and Mike MacDomhnall.

There will be limited capacity for this indoor event but it will be filmed and put up online.

For more, click here.
Another series of scheduled walk-in vaccination clinics for adults, and children aged 12 and over, will be held in Limerick, Ennis and Nenagh this Saturday and Sunday, September 11-12.

The clinics are being held as part of the national effort to maximise the number of Pfizer Dose 1 & 2, and Moderna Dose 2 vaccinations. They are also for those people who have already received an AstraZeneca Dose 1 who, as per national guidance, can now receive a Dose 2 of Pfizer vaccine.





Anyone attending for second doses of Pfizer or Moderna should bring their vaccine record card with them, and note the following:

For the Pfizer vaccine, a minimum of 21 days must have passed after Dose 1 before Dose 2 is administered: this should be observed also for people who have received AstraZeneca Dose 1 and who are receiving Pfizer for their second dose. The second dose of Moderna must be administered at least 28 days after Moderna Dose 1.

Those who wish to attend the clinics do not require an appointment, and do not need to register in advance on the national vaccine registration portal. Please note that children under 16 years must be accompanied to the centre by a parent or guardian.

For identification, anyone attending these clinics should bring with them their birth certificate, or a photo ID. For queries, contact the local HSE approved helpline number on 087-9681240 (9am-6pm, seven days a week). All clinic dates and times related information will be published on www.hse.ie. Outside of these walk-in clinics, parents or guardians of children aged 12 to 15 may continue to register children on the HSE website via this link: https://vaccine.hse.ie/ #register

UL Hospitals Group COVID-19 vaccination teams are continuing to work to ensure that everyone in the Mid-West will receive a vaccine, in line with national guidance on COVID-19 vaccination. Anyone with queries about COVID-19 vaccination may contact the national helpline on 1850-241850.
TWO Limerick firms have been named among Ireland's best managed companies.

Adare agricultural firm Samco and Plassey engineering company H&MV are among 25 companies named in the Deloitte Ireland-run awards programme in 2021.

Samco Agricultural Manufacturing Ltd achieved platinum standard, having been named in the countdown for the seventh straight year.

While H&MV Engineering which is in the National Technology Park won for the first time.

Supported by the Bank of Ireland, the best managed companies programme this year saw the highest number of applicants in its 13 year history.

It culminated in a virtual symposium and awards ceremony this week.

It exists to promotes and recognise excellence in companies owned and managed across the island.

It's the only awards scheme on the island of Ireland that considers a business performance from every perspective.

Entrants to the programme compete for the designation in a rigorous process that evaluates the calibre of their management abilities and practices in addition to the strategy, capability, innovation, culture and financial performance of their companies.

Anya Cummins, the lead partner for Irelands best managed companies awards programme at Deloitte Ireland said: "The quality of the applicants demonstrated the extraordinarily high-quality businesses operating across the island of Ireland today. In a relentlessly challenging year, the winning companies displayed true bravery in how they adapted to change, with many innovating and some even accelerating their plans for their businesses."

The chief executive of Deloitte Ireland Harry Goddard said: "This years winning companies had robust strategies in place prior to the pandemic, which enabled them to respond comprehensively to the changing situations they found themselves in. With no sector untouched by the impact of Covid-19, many companies remained committed to ensuring that they did not fall into the trap of doing things like they had always been done, just because that had worked in the past; in fact, many companies took the extraordinary challenge as an opportunity to develop and improve processes."

"The judges noted that, despite the risk of falling into crisis mode and focusing solely on the immediate challenges facing their businesses, the winning companies were adept at maintaining a long-term view of where their organisations were going and a strong clarity of purpose on what the business was trying to achieve, and why."
TOURISM body Failte Ireland has allocated 750,000 for two outdoor dining facilities in Limerick city.

Under its outdoor dining enhancement scheme, the organisation will work with Limerick City and County Council to deliver permanent weather resistant structures at the junction of Bedford Row and Henry Street, plus Lower Thomas Street.

It comes as Failte Ireland gives 9m to 38 projects around the country.

As part of this, all Local Authorities were invited to apply to develop streets and public spaces to facilitate outdoor dining in urban tourism centres, enabling access to outdoor seating for extended periods throughout the year.

Failte Ireland chief executive Paul Kelly said: "This scheme supports resilience and survival in the short term and the recovery of the tourism sector in the long-term. Outdoor dining and hospitality will now be a permanent feature of our hospitality offering and businesses need to be supported to facilitate this for longer periods throughout the year."

Fine Gael councillor Daniel McSweeney said: "This investment will significantly enhance the offering available in Limerick city for years to come, it is important we also acknowledge the hard work of the economic development department of Limerick Council for putting this successful grant application together."
LIMERICK'S first public Compressed Natural Gas station has officially opened for business.

The state-of-the-art station is strategically located at Circle K, Ballysimon Road in the city to support prominent transport routes, allowing hauliers and fleet operators in Limerick and the South-West region to begin the journey to sustainable transport and supply chains by switching from diesel to CNG.

Renewable gases are the only deployable at scale, ultra-low carbon alternative fuel for use in HGVs, where electric solutions are not currently viable options.

Commenting on the opening of the new station, Jonathan Diver, Senior Director of Fuels at Circle K said: Circle K has longstanding ties to the commercial transport and freight industry and a key priority of ours is supporting this sector as it endeavours to reduce its carbon emissions in addition to providing the other necessary goods and services, they require such as food, coffee and shower/bathroom facilities."

Transport currently accounts for 42% of Irelands energy use, making it the countrys largest source of energy demand. It is also one of the most difficult sectors to decarbonise. In particular, HGVs and buses generate 30% of road transport emissions despite accounting for just 4% of vehicles on Irish roads.

Virginia International Logistics became the first haulier in Ireland to complete a zero-carbon HGV delivery to Europe, using a truck fuelled by renewable gas for the 1,000km round-trip to Caen in northern France.

The opening of the new CNG station in Ballysimon Road will open another important transport corridor for the company's 25 CNG trucks.

Ray Cole, Virginia International Logistics, Transport Director said: The ability to refuel in Limerick opens another transport corridor for our fleet of CNG trucks and allows us to help even more of our customers to continue reducing the impact of their supply chain on the environment.

Gas Networks Irelands Head of Commercial and Corporate Affairs, Ian OFlynn, has welcomed the opening of the new station in Limerick

Irelands commercial transport sector is one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise, but were on a journey with hauliers and forecourt operators to reduce emissions through natural gas today and renewable gas down the road. CNG stations are directly connected to the national gas network and CNG vehicles are future-proofed for biomethane, which is already available in Ireland. By delivering a network of CNG refuelling stations, we are supporting hauliers and fleet operators to make a sustainable switch to gas-powered vehicles.
As the festive season starts this month, private lender Kotak Mahindra Bank announced that it has reduced its home loan interest rates by 15 basis points (bps) from 6.65% to 6.50% p.a starting tomorrow. This special rate of 6.50% p.a. is a limited period festive season offer beginning 10th September and ending 8th November 2021.

Rates for both fresh home loans and balance transfers now start at 6.50% p.a., offering the best value to home buyers. This special rate is available across all loans amounts and is linked to a borrowers credit profile," the lender said in a statement.

This is the lowest interest rate in more than a decade and one of the most competitive among rivals, its president for consumer assets, Ambuj Chandna told reporters in a virtual call.

Chandna also said, We are delighted to add to the festive cheer for millions of home buyers and help make their dream of owning their ideal home a reality. As the world has changed and we are spending more time at home, our lifestyles have also evolved. People are looking for comfortable residences where the entire family can work, entertain and spend quality time together. Kotaks incredible 6.50% home loan interest rate now makes owning ones dream home even more affordable."

In the past, its rivals which include HDFC and SBI, have responded to rate cuts by slashing their own offering and it would be interesting to see how they react this time.

Demand for home loans is coming because of a greater interest in home buying triggered by the pandemic, which has caused both work and education to shift to the homes, and also a downward trend in home prices, Chandna added in the investor call.

There has been an uptrend in the balance transfers, where a home buyer already servicing a loan is shifting to the lender for a lower rate, he said, adding that such transfers are happening for loans taken from both non-bank lenders and also top-tier banks.

The bank is able to cut the interest rate despite no rate cut from the policy side because of the excess liquidity in the system, he said, making it clear that other retail segments including credit cards are also seeing good pick-up in credit.

The bank's lowest rate offering had stood at 6.9 per cent last October, and had been cut twice since then to the current rate of 6.65 per cent. Chandna said over 15 per cent or a sizeable chunk of the customers fall in the lowest rate offering category.

He said mortgages constitute over a fourth of the lender's overall book and home loans have been a focus area for the last one year. However, he declined to share any data on how the market share has increased over the last one year or also give target on how much they wish to sell during the limited period offer.

The bank has not changed its underwriting standards for home loans and continues to follow the same practices, he said.

From an asset quality perspective, Chandna said the bank's home loan book has performed very well over the last year and added that the lowest rate offering helps it get the best quality customers.

Customers can apply for home loans online. With Kotak Digi Home Loans, home loan applicants can now apply for and receive an instant in-principle sanction letter along with their loan amount eligibility, the tenure of the loan, interest rate and EMI.

Features of Kotak Home Loans:

-Starting at 6.50% p.a. on both fresh home loans and balance transfer loans

- The rates are applicable for both the salaried and self-employed customer segments

- Instant in-principle sanction with Kotak Digi Home Loans

To apply for a Kotak Home Loan online, visit Kotak Home Loans. Consumers can also apply through Kotaks bank branches across India. Kotak Home Loans are available across over 100 cities and towns in India. Existing Kotak customers can also apply through the Kotak mobile banking app or net banking.

Kotak Mahindra Bank's shares on BSE were trading 0.074% lower at the time of publishing the story at 1,816.55 apiece.

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After holding extensive deliberations on the situation in Afghanistan, the five-nation influential grouping BRICS said on Thursday called for refraining from violence in the country.

The BRICS asserted that the territory of Afghanistan must not be used to carry out terror attacks against other countries called for combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists.

The virtual summit chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazil's Jair Bolsanaro.

"We call for refraining from violence and settling the situation by peaceful means. We stress the need to contribute to fostering an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue so as to ensure stability, civil peace, law and order in the country," the BRICS said.

After the conclusiong, Sanjay Bhattacharyya, the secretary consular, passport, visa & overseas Indian affairs (CPV&OIA), said the the summit also supported India's perspective on the ongoing developments in Afghanistan.

"There was a very strong condemnation of terrorism and that the Afghan territory should not be used either for terrorism or for drug trafficking and that it should not become a problem in the neighbourhood," he said.

"There is a strong reference to Afghan issue in the 'New Delhi Declaration.' There is a strong sense of consensus which is supportive of our perspective on the developments in Afghanistan and the region," he added.

In addition to this, the grouping also condemned the terrorist attacks near Kabul airport that had resulted in a large number of deaths and injuries.

"We underscore the priority of fighting terrorism, including preventing attempts by terrorist organisations to use Afghan territory as a terrorist sanctuary and to carry out attacks against other countries, as well as drug trade within Afghanistan," the BRICS said in a statement.

"We emphasise the need to address the humanitarian situation and to uphold human rights, including those of women, children and minorities," it added.

The summit also endorsed the BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan for implementing the grouping's Counter-Terrorism Strategy that was adopted by the NSAs of the member nations of the grouping.

"We express strong condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations whenever, wherever and by whomsoever committed. We recognize the threat emanating from terrorism, extremism conducive to terrorism and radicalisation," it said.

The BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) brings together five of the largest developing countries of the world, representing 41% of the global population, 24% of the global GDP and 16% of the global trade.

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For the first time, the Indian Air Force's (IAF's) Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft landed at the national highway in Jalore, Rajasthan on Thursday.

Moreover, C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria onboard landed at Emergency Field Landing at the Jalore's national highway.

#WATCH | For the first time, a Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft lands at the national highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/BVVOtCpT0H  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

#WATCH | C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari & Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria onboard lands at Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/BmOKmqyC5u  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

Singh and Gadkari inaugurated the Emergency Landing Facility on the Satta-Gandhav stretch of National Highway (NH) 925A in Rajasthan's Barmer today.

This is for the first time that a national highway would be used for the emergency landing of an IAF aircraft in the country.

The two ministers also witnessed multiple aircraft operations on the emergency landing facility (ELF) of NH-295 on Thursday.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, and Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat attend a programme held on the occasion of inauguration of Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/2lLTe7qZVA  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

As per the union transport ministry, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the 3-km section of Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925 as an ELF for the IAF. In October 2017, fighter jets and transport planes of the IAF had conducted mock landings on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway to show that such highways can be used by the IAF planes for landing in case of an emergency.

The Lucknow-Agra Expressway, which is not a national highway, comes under the Uttar Pradesh government.

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Fire and smoke alarms went off at the Russian segment of the International Space Station in the early hours of Thursday, and the crew reported noticing smoke and the smell of burnt plastic.

Russia's space agency Roscosmos said the incident took place in the Russian-built Zvezda module and occurred as the station's batteries were being recharged.

According to Roscosmos, the crew activated air filters and returned back to their night rest" once the air quality was back to normal. The crew will proceed with a space walk scheduled for Thursday as planned, the agency noted.

The space station is currently operated by NASA astronauts Mark Vande Hei, Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur; Oleg Novitsky and Pyotr Dubrov of Russias Roscosmos; Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and European Space Agency astronaut Thomas Pesquet.

Novitsky and Dubrov are scheduled to carry out a six-hour-long space walk on Thursday to continue integrating the Russian-built Nauka science lab that docked with the space station in July. Shortly after docking, the lab briefly knocked the orbital outpost out of position by accidentally firing its engines  an incident Russian space officials blamed on a software failure.

This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.

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Two Canadian airlines have decided that all their employees who fail to get fully vaccinated will face unpaid leaves and in some cases termination of employment.

Canada's WestJet Airlines said that the employees who fail to attest their vaccination status by September 24 or get fully vaccinated by October 30, will face unpaid leave or termination of employment.

"As part of its vaccine mandate, the airline will not provide testing as an alternative to vaccination," WestJet said in a statement.

On the other hand, United Airlines Holdings Inc has imposed a September 27 deadline for employees to submit proof of full vaccination. Unpaid personal or medical leave for unvaccinated employees will begin on October 2, the company said.

In the case of United airline, not all staff will get leaves without pay as the airline's union contracts and employment agreements allow for paid medical leave. Those who arent granted exemptions will be terminated.

Both the airlines did not reveal how many of their workers have been vaccinated or how many have turned down Covid-19 vaccination because of a medical condition or religious belief.

United Airlines said that employees who work in customer-facing roles, such as flight attendants, pilots, and gate agents, will be on extended leave until the Covid pandemic appears to be over.

And, employees who dont interact with customers, such as baggage handlers and aircraft fuelers, will learn in mid-October how they can return with new social distancing and mask policies, it added.

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The terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 were a horrific shock. Images of trapped victims leaping from the Twin Towers are indelible, and the intrusive security measures introduced in the wake of the attacks have long since become a fact of life.

But sceptics doubt that it marked a turning point in history. They note that the immediate physical damage was far from fatal to American power. It is estimated that the United States economic growth dropped by three percentage points in 2001, and insurance claims for damages eventually totalled over $40 billiona small fraction of what was then a $10 trillion economy. And the nearly 3,000 people killed in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington DC when the Al-Qaeda hijackers turned four aircraft into cruise missiles was a small fraction of US travel fatalities that year.

While accepting these facts, my guess is that future historians will regard 9/11 as a date as important as the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941. The surprise attack on the US naval base in Hawaii killed some 2,400 American military personnel and destroyed or damaged 19 naval craft, including eight battleships. In both cases, however, the main effect was on public psychology.

For years, President Franklin D. Roosevelt had tried to alert Americans to the Axis threat but had failed to overcome isolationism. All that changed with Pearl Harbor. In the 2000 presidential election, George W. Bush advocated a humble foreign policy and warned against the temptations of nation-building. After the shock of 9/11, he declared a global war on terror" and invaded both Afghanistan and Iraq. Given the proclivities of top members of his administration, some say a clash with Iraqs then-dictator, Saddam Hussein, was predictable in any case, but not its manner or cost.

What 9/11 illustrates is that terrorism is about psychology, not damage. Terrorism is like theatre. With their powerful military, Americans believe that shock and awe" comes from massive bombardment. For terrorists, shock and awe comes from the drama more than the number of deaths caused by their attacks. Poisons might kill more people, but explosions get the visuals. The constant replay of the falling Twin Towers on the worlds TV sets was Osama bin Ladens coup.

Terrorism can also be compared to jujitsu, in which a weak adversary turns the power of a larger player against itself. While the 9/11 attacks killed several thousand Americans, the endless wars" that the US subsequently launched killed many more. Indeed, the damage done by Al-Qaeda pales in comparison to the damage America did to itself.

By some estimates, nearly 15,000 US military personnel and contractors were killed in the wars that followed 9/11, and the economic cost exceeded $6 trillion. Add to this the number of foreign civilians killed and refugees created, and the costs grow even more enormous. The opportunity costs were also large. When former US President Barack Obama tried to pivot to Asiathe fastest-growing part of the world economythe legacy of the global war on terror kept the US mired in the Middle East.

Despite these costs, some say that the US achieved its goal: There has not been another major terrorist attack on the US homeland on the scale of 9/11. Bin Laden and many of his top lieutenants were killed, and Saddam Hussein was removed (though his connection to 9/11 was always dubious). Alternatively, a case can be made that Bin Laden succeeded, particularly if we consider that his beliefs included the value of religious martyrdom. The global jihadist movement is fragmented, but it has spread to more countries, and the Taliban have returned to power in Afghanistanironically, just before the 9/11 anniversary that President Joe Biden originally set as the target date for withdrawing US troops.

It is too early to assess the long-term effects of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. The short-term effects of the chaotic exit are costly, but in the long term, Biden may come to be seen as correct to forswear the effort at nation-building in a country divided by mountains and tribes and united mainly by opposition to foreigners.

Leaving Afghanistan will allow Biden to focus on his grand strategy of balancing the rise of China. For all the damage done to US soft power by the chaotic manner of the exit from Afghanistan, Asia has its own long-standing balance of power in which countries like Japan, India, and Vietnam do not wish to be dominated by China and welcome an American presence. When one considers that within 20 years of Americas traumatic exit from Vietnam, the US was welcome in that country as well as the region, Bidens overall strategy makes sense. At the same time, 20 years after 9/11, the problem of terrorism remains, and terrorists may feel emboldened to try again. If so, the task for US leaders is to develop an effective counter-terrorism strategy. Its core must be to avoid falling into terrorists trap by doing great damage to ourselves. Leaders must plan to manage the psychological shocks at home and abroad.

Imagine what the world would be like if Bush had avoided the tempting rallying cry of a global war on terror and responded to 9/11 by carefully selected military strikes combined with good intelligence and diplomacy. Or, if he had gone into Afghanistan, imagine that he had withdrawn after six months, even if that had involved negotiating with the despised Taliban.

Looking forward, when the next terrorist attacks come, will presidents be able to channel public demand for revenge by precise targeting, explaining the trap that terrorists set, and focusing on the resilience of US responses? Thats the question Americans should be asking and their leaders should be addressing. 2021/Project Syndicate

Joseph S. Nye, Jr. is dean emeritus of Harvard Universitys John F. Kennedy School of Government, and author of Soft Power: The Means to Success in World Politics and Do Morals Matter?

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New Delhi: The clinical trial of Bharat Biotech's nasal covid vaccine will be held at Delhi's All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) soon. According to a report in ANI, the trial of this nasal vaccine is expected to commence in the next couple of weeks. The approval for this clinical trial has been sent to seek the mandatory permission of the AIIMS Ethics Committee.

Bharat Biotech's intranasal vaccine received regulatory approval for second Phase trials in August.

Here is all you need to know about Bharat Biotech's nasal covid vaccine

1) The adenoviral intranasal vaccine BBV154 is the first of its kind Covid-19 vaccine to undergo human trials in India.

2) After getting the ethics committee's nod, the second phase of the trials will be conducted on volunteers who will be administered the two doses of the vaccine with a gap of four weeks in between.

3) According to the ministry of science and technology, the Phase 1 trial in healthy volunteers of age groups ranging from 18-60 years was well tolerated.

4) Trials for the Phase 3 trial will commence after the completion of Phase-2 clinical trials.

5) Bharat Biotech's nasal vaccine clinical trial's principal investigator will be Dr Sanjay Rai.

Nasal vaccine may be more effective

The intramuscular injection produces antibodies that circulate in the blood to recognize the virus. But this route of administration doesnt necessarily produce antibodies in the nose and nasal passages.

This has raised the possibility that vaccinated people could still catch and spread the virus, even when they dont know theyre infected. Scientists have proposed that vaccines are given through the nose (intranasally) may be able to block SARS-CoV-2 in both the nasal passages and bloodstream.

Researchers led by Dr Vincent Munster from NIHs National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) tested intranasal delivery of the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine in hamsters and monkeys. A nasal spray of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine protected hamsters and monkeys against serious disease and reduced the amount of virus in the nose.

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Katalin Kariko (left) and Dr. Drew Weissman (right) have been awarded the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for their work with mRNA that enabled the development of several COVID-19 vaccines.

Two scientists who developed a technology used in COVID-19 mRNA vaccines have been awarded a $3 million prize.

Now in their 10th year, the Breakthrough Prizes recognize leading researchers in the fields of fundamental physics, life sciences and mathematics . Each prize comes with a $3 million award, supplied by the foundation's founding sponsors Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, Yuri and Julia Milner, and Anne Wojcicki. This year, one of three prizes in the Life Sciences category will go to Katalin Kariko and Dr. Drew Weissman, whose work over the last few decades led to the development of the technology needed to deliver mRNA into cells, paving the way for today's COVID-19 vaccines , specifically those produced by Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna.

In essence, Kariko and Weissman figured out how to quiet alarms from the immune system long enough for synthetic messenger RNA to slip into cells, send commands to the cells to make proteins, and be broken down harmlessly once those instructions were delivered. That process enabled the COVID-19 vaccines that have been administered to more than 360 million people in the U.S., alone, and millions more in countries around the world  and the technology could pave the way for gene therapies and cancer treatments, in the future.

Related: 7 revolutionary Nobel Prizes in Medicine

"The innovative vaccines developed by Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna that have proven effective against the virus rely on decades of work by Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman," The Breakthrough Foundation wrote in a statement. "Convinced of the promise of mRNA therapies despite widespread skepticism, they created a technology that is not only vital in the fight against the coronavirus today, but holds vast promise for future vaccines and treatments for a wide range of diseases including HIV, cancer, autoimmune and genetic diseases."

"There's huge potential for the future of modified RNA," Weissman, an immunologist and professor of vaccine research at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine, told Live Science.

For example, prior to the coronavirus pandemic, Weissman's group had launched clinical trials of mRNA vaccines to prevent genital herpes, influenza and HIV; in 2020, they began working on a pan-coronavirus vaccine capable of outwitting any beta coronavirus, of which SARS-CoV-2 is just one example. They're also working on an RNA-based gene therapy for sickle cell anemia, which would target bone marrow stem cells.

Meanwhile, Kariko, an adjunct professor of neurosurgery at the Perelman School of Medicine and a senior vice president at BioNTech, is working with the German biotech company to develop mRNA therapies to combat cancer and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

To understand why the platform is so powerful, it helps to know how RNA molecules help direct activity in our cells.

In every living thing, DNA and RNA work together to make proteins. The genes in DNA contain instructions to construct proteins, but the DNA remains locked away in the nucleus, far from the cell's protein-construction sites, the ribosomes. To get the information in our genes from Point A to Point B, the cell builds a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA), which swoops in, copies down the relevant bits of genetic code and zooms off to a ribosome. From there, ribosomes work with a second molecule, "transfer RNA" (tRNA), to turn that genetic code into a shiny new protein .

RNA-based vaccines and therapies work very similarly to natural RNA, except scientists build their own custom RNA molecules in a lab. The synthesized RNA can then be delivered to specific cells in the body, which use the RNA's instructions to build proteins. When Kariko and Weissman first began working together in the 1990s, they experimented with methods of delivering RNA into dendritic cells  immune cells that throw up red flags when they detect foreign invaders, like viruses. Vaccines target these cells in order to set off an immune response and train the body to recognize specific pathogens.

But in this early work, "we found that RNA was highly activating of the immune system, likely because many viruses are RNA, and our bodies continually fight against them," Weissman said. In their experiments, the team still managed to get the dendritic cells to build the proteins they wanted, but their synthetic RNA also set off severe inflammation in the cells. "So the work that Kati [Kariko] and I did for the first seven or so years, was to figure out what made RNA so immunogenic, so activating, and how to get rid of that."

Eventually, they figured out that they could prevent the inflammation by swapping out one of the building blocks of the mRNA  uridine  for a very similar one, called pseudouridine. In human cells, pseudouridine can be found in tRNA, Weissman said. This critical discovery, published in 2005 in the journal Immunity , would be key to all mRNA vaccine development going forward, Stat News reported .

After solving the inflammation problem, the team still faced "a huge number of hurdles," Weissman said. For instance, they had to devise the best method for getting the mRNA into cells in the first place. They ultimately found that lipid nanoparticles, which are essentially tiny bubbles of fat, did the best job of protecting the RNA from enzymes that might degrade it while shuttling the molecules into cells, he said.

All this work laid the foundation for the advent of Pfizer's and Moderna's COVID-19 vaccines, which prompt cells to build the characteristic spike protein of the coronavirus. And these vaccines can be easily updated to target new coronavirus variants, thanks to the adaptability of the RNA platform. Perhaps in the future, mRNA might form the basis of the first pan-coronavirus vaccine, along with myriad other medical treatments.

"The potential is enormous," Weissman said. "My lab is currently working with 150 different labs around the world, developing different mRNA vaccines and therapeutics, so the interest in it is growing by the day."

Originally published on Live Science.
Alarms blared aboard the Russian side of the International Space Station (ISS) early Thursday (Sept. 9), and the crew reported seeing smoke and smelling burnt plastic, according to news reports.

The incident occurred in Russia's Zvezda module as the station's batteries were recharging, Russia's space agency, Roscosmos, reported, according to the BBC . The systems are now back to normal, and the crew has returned to "regular training," Roscosmos said. The ISS crew activated air filters, which cleared the air, according to the Associated Press .

Though this incident has been resolved, it wasn't the first time the ISS has dealt with worrisome events. And it likely won't be the last.

Related: International Space Station at 20: A photo tour

Much of the equipment aboard the ISS is outdated and could lead to irreparable failures, Vladimir Solovyov, chief engineer of rocket and space corporation Energia, told state media on Sept. 1, according to the BBC. At least 80% of in-flight systems on the Russian segment of the ISS have expired, Solovyov said.

On Aug. 30, Russian cosmonauts discovered cracks on the ISS' Zarya module, which was the first ISS component to be launched into orbit, in 1998, Live Science previously reported . Solovyov told Russian state-owned news agency RIA that these fissures could begin to spread over time. He also previously warned of an "avalanche" of broken equipment after 2025, according to Reuters .

The ISS is aging, and it can't last forever; but how it will eventually retire is unclear. If humans don't eventually grant the station retirement, such as by de-orbiting it, the ever-threatening risk of impacts from space debris and micrometeorites will lead to its demise, according to Live Science sister site Space.com .

Still, the ISS is cleared to operate through at least December 2024 and from a technical standpoint, to fly until the end of 2028, NASA officials previously told Space.com. "Additionally, our analysis has not identified any issues that would preclude us from extending beyond 2028 if needed."

A 6-hour spacewalk to work on a recently-docked Russian Nauka science lab that is scheduled for Thursday is still a go, according to the Associated Press.

Originally published on Live Science.
Denham Springs, LA (70726)

Today

Periods of rain. Potential for flooding rains. High 79F. Winds SE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch..

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Cloudy with showers. Low 72F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
United Airlines employees who receive religious or medical exemptions from the company's coronavirus vaccine requirement will be required to take temporary leaves of absence starting next month, company officials said Wednesday.

"Given the dire statistics . . . we can no longer allow unvaccinated people back into the workplace until we better understand how they might interact with our customers and their vaccinated co-workers," Kirk Limacher, United's vice president of HR services, wrote in a memo to employees.

Employees who receive religious exemptions will be put on voluntary unpaid leave, while those who receive medical exemptions will be placed on temporary medical leave, according to the memo. The leaves will begin Oct. 2.

Those whose exemption requests are denied will have until Sept. 27 to get their first shot and must be fully vaccinated within five weeks after receiving word. Employees who don't meet those conditions will be terminated.

In August, United became the first U.S. airline to require that all U.S.-based employees be vaccinated against the coronavirus. Two other carriers, Frontier and Hawaiian, followed suit.

Other airlines, however, have shied away from mandating the shots, instead banking on incentives that include additional vacation days and bonuses to encourage people to get vaccinated.

United said that more than half the employees who were unvaccinated on the day the company announced the mandate are now vaccinated. The company, however, did not say what percentage of its 67,000 U.S.-based workforce is vaccinated.

In announcing its updated policy, United said it is trying strike a balance between keeping employees and customers safe, while accommodating the religious beliefs and medical needs of those who have sought exemptions. The company said exemptions are being determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account an employee's role at United, the metrics of the pandemic and other considerations.

The length of the leaves will depend on the employee's role at the company, officials said. Those who work directly with customers, such as pilots, flight attendants and gate agents, will return to the job "once the pandemic meaningfully recedes."

Others, whose jobs don't bring them in regular contact with customers, will be allowed to return to work once updated safety protocols are put into place, the airline said.

Airline executives have said that a full recovery would not take root until vaccines were widely available and have repeatedly urged the public and their employees to get the shots. Yet even as many Americans rushed to get vaccinated, others have refused. It's that dynamic that has fueled the new wave of infections that is damping the airline industry's hope for recovery.

Several carriers, including Southwest Airlines, said it began seeing a decline in bookings in August and that the trend was likely to extend into September.

In recent weeks, some carriers have taken a harder line, announcing policies that reduce benefits for those who refuse to get vaccinated.

Last month, Delta Air Lines announced that employees who aren't vaccinated will be required to pay a $200 monthly insurance surcharge and will be required to undergo weekly testing. In addition, as of Oct. 1, a coronavirus pay-protection program offered through the company will apply only to breakthrough cases. In May, the airline announced that the vaccine would be required for all new employees.

In a memo outlining his decision, Delta chief executive Ed Bastian noted that the average hospital stay for covid-19 costs the airline $50,000 per person.

"This surcharge will be necessary to address the financial risk the decision to not vaccinate is creating for our company," he wrote in a memo outlining the new policy. At the time, he said, roughly 75% of employees are vaccinated.

Alaska Airlines is offering a $200 bonus to employees who show proof of vaccination by Oct. 15. Already roughly 75% of employees at Alaska and its regional carrier, Horizon Air, have been vaccinated, the carrier said. As at Delta, all new employees are required to be vaccinated.

Employees who decline to get vaccines will have to undergo regular testing, participate in a vaccine-education program and sign a document laying out safety protocols that must be followed and acknowledge the risks of being unvaccinated. In addition, unvaccinated employees who contract covid-19 will no longer be eligible for a special covid pay program if they are exposed or infected.

American and Southwest airlines are hoping that incentives such as gift cards and extra vacation days will incentivize employees to get vaccinated.

In making their case to employees, United chief executive Scott Kirby and President Bret Hart cited a growing body of data about the effectiveness of the vaccines. They noted that more than 50 medical groups support vaccine requirements, including the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Public Health Association.
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After having swept San Sebastians Films in Progress with his second feature, Rust (2018) and quickly consolidated as one of the most talked-about of emerging talents in Brazil  a country of many talented young filmmakers  Aly Muritiba has come to Venices Biennale to screen his latest film, Private Desert(Deserto Particular), at its Giornate degli Autori.

Its a heartwarming love story that reconfirms the directors control over his craft. Co-produced by Grafo Audiovisual and Fado Filmes, the film follows Daniel, played energetically by Antonio Saboia. Hes a police man who, after being discharged due to violent behavior, crosses the country to find his online love who has suddenly vanished.

What follows is a delicate tale that widens Daniels horizons and those of his lover Sara under a scorching sun.

Aided by cinematographer Luis Armando Arteaga (Ixcanul Volcano, 2015 ), Muritibas shimmering camerawork elegantly constructs the love story. The art direction of Fabiola Bonofiglio and Marcos Pedroso packs the screen with beautiful images, full of color and depth. will be distributed by Intra Movies.

Variety talked with Muritiba just before his film screened on Tuesday at Venice Days.

Due to the latitude, films shot in the Tropics always have to handle a raging sun which often gives a very specific look to the images. This is not the case of your film, which displays a lush cinematography brimming with colors and deep shadows. What was the process, with Luis Armando Arteaga, of achieving that?

When I decided to make this movie it was important to look to my country and to find a kind sensation, of personality and of image. As the main character in my movie, Im from the north, Im from Bahia, I was born there, but Im living in the south of Brazil. Both parts are totally different in the sense of the weather, the color and the behavior of the people. And when I invited Arteaga to make this movie with me, I told him, You need to come to Brazil some weeks before because you need to feel the hot sun, your skin, the shining colors of Bahia and how green, cold and dark the south can get. We talked about the light, about the position of the sun and we started discussing the shadows felt in our movie.

Your camera has very few flourishes, it rarely moves and it never points attention to itself. Yet it always finds dynamism and brings out emotion through very subtle changes. What was your guiding principle when defining the camera movement?

For us the most vital thing is the character. So the camera moves according to his feelings: If hes calm then we can remain static and if hes anxious it is only natural to use hand-held. It was always a three-way work, every time we set up a scene we discussed between Arteaga, Antonio [Saboia] and me exactly how the character felt. Finding out how Daniel felt in each scene would give the key to how to frame him and how to move with him and that was a joint labor that became a constant conversation through the shooting. The result was a slow transition from the static life of Daniel to the hand-held camera that follows him at the end.

Both the police force and masculinity are now profoundly questioned. Furthermore in Latin America the figure of a police officer has become increasingly associated with that of a victimizer. Yet the film paints a colorful spectrum of masculinity, adding hues and shadows out of precisely a character who is a cop. Could you comment?

This is a topic close to my heart as I worked as a prison guard for seven years and stopped quite recently. I was still finishing film school during the day and in the evening talked with both guards and inmates. I had a very intimate contact with the people working in the justice system. Many film classmates distanced themselves as soon as they knew I was a guard, they thought of me as an oppressor. But I am not only that. I can be so much more: Im also a student, I also write poetry, I can feel so many things. And so when making this film it was clear to me I wanted to do a love story in a country that is fighting, torn between its own contradictions and led by a man like Bolsonaro. I thought if this love story could be lived and felt by not a film school student or an artist but by a policeman, who discovers that he can love, even for a day or a week, another man, then this could be a great success.

Could you talk about the role of virtual communication in the film?

I have a sort of obsession with virtual communication. I find it such an incredible and amazing tool that can have such devastating consequences. This love story would have never happened without these new technologies that allow us to speak and see one other live in two different countries. The problem of course is not in the tool but in how we use it. In Ferrugem (Rust, 2018) it can drive a teenage girl to suicide and in Private Desert it can bring Daniel to love someone whom he most likely would never meet. I find it immensely interesting how these tools can lead us, become new narrative tools and have beautiful uses and then Im constantly reminded that our current president won the elections by mostly intelligent use of such tools.

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Facing an increasing number of new Covid-19 cases and deaths, President Joe Biden Thursday unveiled a more aggressive strategy in his war on the novel coronavirus  most notably, expansive federal vaccine requirements estimated to impact as many as 100 million Americans. In a speech, Biden outlined other details of his new six-step plan aimed directly at stopping the rapid spread of the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2  while calling out those who have refused inoculation.

Despite having an unprecedented and successful vaccination program, despite the fact that for almost five months, free vaccines have been available at 80,000 different locations, we still have nearly 80 million Americans who have failed to get the shot, the president said. What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see?

Weve been patient, he added. But our patience is wearing thin.

This updated Covid-19 plan comes only two months after Biden announced that the United States was closer than ever to declaring our independence from the deadly virus. When the president made his July 4th remarks, there was an average of roughly 12,000 new Covid cases and approximately 200 deaths per day. As of today, those figures have jumped to around 150,000 new cases and 1,500 deaths a day.

In addition to increasing vaccination rates, the new White House strategy will also focus on safely keeping schools open, improving mitigation measures like testing and masking, ensuring continued protection for those who are fully vaccinated, the countrys economic recovery, and improving care for those currently living with Covid-19.

Vaccine mandates hit as many as 100 million Americans

Biden wasted no time putting his new Covid-19 response plan into action, announcing two executive orders mandating Covid-19 vaccination for the vast majority of executive branch federal workers and contractors  this time, without the option of undergoing regular testing instead.

The mandate does, however, allow federal employees to seek religious or medical exemptions from vaccination. Their colleagues, on the other hand, have 75 days to get fully vaccinated or face consequences set by their agencies human resources departments, ranging from counseling, to discipline, to potential termination, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters during a press briefing Thursday afternoon.

But unvaccinated private sector employees arent off the hook: the president also noted that the Department of Labor is currently developing a new emergency rule, requiring employers with 100 or more people to ensure their employees are fully vaccinated, or show a negative test at least once a week. This policy alone will impact more than 80 million workers in private sector businesses: roughly the same number of Americans eligible for Covid-19 vaccination who have yet to receive their first shot, according to the plan released today by the White House.

In addition to their previous vaccine mandate for nursing home staff, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is now requiring healthcare workers employed in hospitals and other medical or home health facilities to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19  a policy affecting approximately 17 million people.

According to Dr. Howard P. Forman, professor of radiology and public health, and director of the health care management program at the Yale School of Public Health, its unfortunate that Covid-19 vaccination has become so divisive an issue that it necessitates employer mandates, but the policies do appear to represent a means to protect both the workforce and the public who interacts with its members.

Our best evidence suggests that the vaccines reduce  though not eliminate by any stretch  transmission, he tells Rolling Stone. This means that near-unanimous compliance with vaccination can allow workspaces to approach pre-pandemic normal operations.

Our patience is wearing thin

Though Biden has repeatedly highlighted the need to increase the countrys vaccination rates, his speech on Thursday struck a different, much more forceful tone when addressing those who still refuse the vaccine. This is not about freedom, or personal choice, he said. Its about protecting yourself and those around you  the people you work with, the people you care about, the people you love.

Next up on Bidens list: the politicians who promote the messaging of the anti-vaccination movement. Elected officials are actively working to undermine the fight against Covid-19, he said. Instead of encouraging people to get vaccinated and mask up, theyre ordering mobile morgues for the unvaccinated dying from Covid in our communities. This is totally unacceptable. The president went on to note his frustration with the fact that we have the tools to combat Covid-19, and a distinct minority of Americans supported by a distinct minority of elected officials are keeping us from turning the corner.

According to Dr. Amesh Adalja, senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Healths Center for Health Security, Bidens direct approach was necessary. We have to put the blame squarely where it is, he tells Rolling Stone. We have to identify what the problem is. We cannot play games and act as if this isnt being caused by peoples willful shunning of the vaccine. Its mind boggling because whats happening now in the United States is deliberate, it is willful. It isnt something that the virus is doing  its what humans are doing to themselves and to their own community hospitals.
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Kosovo has chosen Blerta Bashollis Sundance triple winner Hive as its official entry for the Oscars international feature category.

The film won the Audience Award, Directing Award, and World Cinema Grand Jury Prize at Sundances World Cinema Dramatic competition earlier this year.

Hive is a drama based on the true story of Fahrije (Yllka Gashi), who, like many of the other women in her patriarchal village, has lived with fading hope and burgeoning grief since her husband went missing during the war in Kosovo. In order to provide for her struggling family, she pulls together the other widows in her community to launch a business selling a local food product. Finding healing and solace in considering a future without their husbands, but their will to begin living independently is met with hostility. The men in the village condemn Fahrijes efforts to empower herself and the women around her, starting a feud that threatens their newfound sovereignty.

The film is Basholliss feature debut. She is a graduate of the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University. Her shorts Lena and Me, Gjakova 726 and Mirror, Mirror, have had considerable festival play.

Zeitgeist Films in association with Kino Lorber will release Hive exclusively at Film Forum in New York on Nov. 5 and the film will open in Los Angeles at Laemmles Royal Theatre on Nov. 12.

This Kosovos eighth Oscar entry and the country has yet to secure a nomination.

For the 94th Academy Awards, the deadline for submissions in the international feature category is Nov. 1. A shortlist of 15 finalists will be revealed Dec. 21 and the five nominees on Feb. 8, 2022. The Oscar ceremony will take place on March. 27, 2022.

Another Round won the category this year.

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A man has been arrested for masturbating outside a local gym, according to an arrest affidavit.

Dronik Kostiantyn, 46, was charged with two counts of indecent exposure.
MADRID (AP)  Police in Madrid on Thursday arrested a former Venezuelan spymaster wanted on U.S. narcoterrorism charges, capturing him in a hideout apartment nearly two years after he defied a Spanish extradition order and disappeared.

Gen. Hugo Carvajal, who for over a decade was late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavezs eyes and ears in the Venezuelan military, was arrested in the small apartment in which he had been holed up.

He lived totally enclosed, never going outside or getting close to the window, always protected by people he trusted, Spain's police said in a statement on social media in which they posted a short video the moment heavily-armed officers put handcuffs on Carvajal.

Spain's leftist government last year approved Carvajals extradition to the U.S., where he faces federal charges for allegedly working with guerrillas from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia to flood the U.S. with cocaine.

The extradition order followed a back-and-forth legal battle in which Spain's National Court reversed an earlier ruling by a high court magistrate throwing out the U.S. warrant for being politically motivated. In the interim, Carvajal was released and never heard from again except when he said last year that he was going underground to protest what he viewed as political interference in his case.

He resurfaced on social media earlier this month, posting with little notice what could be a preview of his eventual defense: a statement accusing former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe, who was for years the U.S.' main caretaker in the war on drugs, of fabricating evidence against him and the Chavez government even as it was cooperating with U.S. prosecutors to arrest Colombian narcos hiding inside Venezuela

"It's a lie that will eventually collapse," Carvajal wrote. I've always trusted that the truth will prevail."

It's not clear when Carvajal could be sent to the U.S. But his extradition may be slowed down by an asylum request he previously submitted to Spanish authorities.

Im prepared for either situation, the good or the bad, Carvajals wife, Angelica Flores, told The Associated Press when contacted by phone with the news. Its up to him and others to give statements. This case will continue and well see how it ends.

Nicknamed El Pollo (The Chicken), Carvajal has bete noire of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for over a decade.

First indicted in 2011, he narrowly escaped extradition when he was arrested in Aruba in 2014 while serving as Venezuela's consul general to the Dutch Caribbean island. President Nicolas Maduros government successfully applied pressure on Aruba, which sits just miles off Venezuela's coast, to release Carvajal and when it did he received a hero's welcome upon his return to Caracas.

But he was never a confidant of Maduro and in the complicated internal politics of Venezuela's ruling socialist party was relegated to a minor role as a backbench parliamentarian.

In 2019, after opposition leader Juan Guaido led a street uprising and quickly won the U.S.' recognition as Venezuela's legitimate leader, Carvajal then openly rejected the government, urging members of the military to break with Maduro.

While on the run, both from the DEA and Maduro, Carvajal traveled to the Spanish capital from the Dominican Republic under a disguised identity. He was greeted at Madrids airport by two Spanish intelligence officials, the AP has previously reported.

From Europe, Carvajal had hoped to leverage contacts and knowledge of the Venezuelan deep state to mount a military-backed rebellion against Maduro.

But to the frustration of many in Venezuelas opposition who have secretly tried to flip senior members of the military, he was arrested on the U.S. warrant days before a failed barracks rebellion on April 30, 2019.

There was no immediate comment from Maduros government.

The case against Carvajal in New York centers on a DC-9 jet from Caracas that landed in southern Mexico in 2006 with 5.6 tons of cocaine packed into 128 suitcases. Carvajal said that judicial probes in Venezuela and Mexico never linked him to the incident and that the alleged plane owner backs his alibi.

But he faces incriminating evidence from phone records, drug ledgers and the testimony of at least 10 witnesses, according to an affidavit from a DEA special agent. Those witnesses include members and associates of the Cartel of the Suns, former high-ranking Venezuelan officials, according to the affidavit.

The U.S. indictment also repeats an accusation that Carvajal provided Colombian rebels with weapons and protection inside Venezuela.

The former general has scoffed at the allegations. He says his contacts with the FARC  designated by the U.S. as a terrorist organization  were authorized by Chavez and limited to securing the release of a kidnapped Venezuelan businessman and paving the way for peace talks with the Colombian government.

___

Goodman reported from Miami.
Two suspected smugglers were arrested in Laredo during Operation Lone Star, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

On Sept. 5, the DPS criminal investigation division and the Texas highway Patrol pulled over a gray Chrysler passenger for a traffic violation.
LONDON (AP)  The leader of Northern Irelands largest British unionist party heightened post-Brexit political tensions on Thursday, saying the U.K.s divorce deal with the European Union could collapse the Belfast government and trigger a new era of violence and instability.

Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson threatened to pull his party out of the power-sharing administration if the rules for Northern Ireland trade agreed by the U.K. and the EU last year are not fundamentally changed within weeks.

In a speech in Belfast, he said the agreement known as the Northern Ireland Protocol fundamentally undermines  the economic integrity of the United Kingdom and Northern Irelands position in it.

We are totally opposed to the protocol as it presently exists, Donaldson said.

He said that the problems must be resolved in weeks and not months or years, and said DUP ministers would quit Northern Irelands Protestant-Catholic power-sharing administration rather than implement the deal in its present form. That would effectively collapse the government, which is run by the DUP and Irish nationalist party Sinn Fein.

He also said DUP ministers would boycott regular meetings with politicians in Ireland as a protest against the new rules.

I say not as a threat, but as a matter of political reality that our political institutions will not survive a failure to resolve the problems that the protocol has created, said Donaldson, who was elected DUP leader two months ago.

The crisis straining U.K.-EU relations stems from trade arrangements for Northern Ireland, the only part of the U.K. that has a land border with the 27-nation bloc. The divorce deal the two sides struck before Britains departure means customs and border checks must be conducted on some goods moving between Northern Ireland and the rest of the U.K.

The regulations are intended to prevent goods from Britain entering the EUs tariff-free single market while keeping an open border between Northern Ireland and EU member Ireland  a key pillar of Northern Irelands peace process. But the checks have angered Northern Irelands unionists, who say they impose burdensome red tape on businesses and weaken Northern Irelands ties with the rest of the U.K.

Tensions over the new rules contributed to a week of street violence in Northern Ireland cities in April that saw youths pelt police with bricks, fireworks and gasoline bombs.

Donaldson said the violence had died down, but I fear that unless we grapple with this issue, this will prove to be merely a pause, rather than an end to the disorder.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald called Donaldson's stance a reckless, irresponsible and short-sighted election stunt. Doug Beattie of the Ulster Unionist Party, the DUP's rival for unionist votes, said Donaldson's threats were counterproductive.

We continue to lobby rather than threaten," he said.

The EU's chief Brexit official, Maros Sefcovic, urged all sides to dial down the political rhetoric and work on the concrete problems.

Britain and the EU both say they want to fix the problems, but they remain far apart on solutions.

Britains Conservative government has accused the bloc of being needlessly purist in implementing the rules. The U.K. is seeking ultimately to remove most checks, replacing them with a light touch system in which only goods at risk of entering the EU would be inspected.

In the meantime, Britain has postponed indefinitely the start of many checks on goods going to Northern Ireland, which were due to be phased in after the U.K. left the EUs economic embrace at the end of 2020.

The EU says it wont renegotiate the agreement and is calling for Britain to implement the deal that Prime Minister Boris Johnson agreed to.

The two sides have agreed to keep talking. Sefcovic, the European Commission vice-president Maros Sefcovic, is visiting Northern Ireland on Thursday and Friday to meet with businesses and politicians including Donaldson.

___

Follow APs Brexit coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/brexit
Longford Fine Gael Senator Micheal Carrigy has leapt to the defence of embattled Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney on foot of calls by Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald for him to be dismissed, claiming the Cork-South Central TD "has more integrity than entire Sinn Fein parliamentary party combined".

Senator Carrigy expressed confidence in Mr Coveney in the wake of the botched appointment of former Minister Katherine Zappone as a special envoy.

"Simon Coveney has apologised for his handling of the Zappone appointment, and he has willingly gone before the Committee of Foreign Affairs on two occasions," he said.

"He has admitted the sloppiness with the way this issue was handled and apologised for doing so. Most importantly, the public know that he is a Minister with a track record of public service, integrity and decency."

In defending Mr Coveney, the Ballinalee postmaster hit out at calls by Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald for Taoiseach Micheal Martin to relieve the Foreign Affairs Minister of his duties.

Minister Coveney has fully accepted and apologised for the damage this episode has caused to the Government, but we now see Sinn Fein trying to split the Government and cause a General Election as we work to finally get the country back on track after a national emergency.

We will not be taking advice from the leader of a parliamentary party who would like the public to forget that a Sinn Fein Dublin TD spent 50,000 on ink cartridges, paid for by the Oireachtas at the publics expense, or that their Finance Minister in Northern Ireland took instructions from unknown and unelected senior Sinn Fein figures.

Sinn Fein is more interested in its own self-promotion rather than actually contributing to getting this country back on track post-pandemic, he said.
One million euro in funding has been announced for social enterprises nationwide to allow them purchase equipment.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys announced the funding on Tuesday.

IDA chiefs to construct multi million euro FDI site in Longford The state agency responsible for attracting and retaining inward foreign direct investment to Ireland has revealed plans to build a state of the art building in Longford aimed at luring a large multinational company to the county.

The Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 will provide funding for the purchase of equipment or the carrying out of repairs or refurbishments to enable social enterprises to improve their service delivery.

The scheme supports one of the key commitments in the National Social Enterprise Policy for Ireland 2019-2022  Growing and Strengthening Social Enterprise.

The Department of Rural and Community Development is now inviting social enterprises across the country to apply for funding under the scheme.

"I am delighted to be in a position today to announce the launch of the one million euro Social Enterprise Capital Grants Scheme 2021 which will support social enterprises across Ireland that are providing valuable services in their communities," Minister Humphreys said.

"This scheme will provide small grants to social enterprises with the cost of capital projects such as refurbishments, repairs or the purchase of new equipment."Approximately 120 social enterprises from all across Ireland will receive support under the scheme," Minister Humphreys added.
A new award to help women restart their education has been launched in memory of the late broadcaster, Marian Finucane.

The fund, which is worth 20,000, will allow women with financial and/or social barriers to access higher education.

The late Mrs Finucane, who was passionate about education, presented her weekend radio programme 'The Marian Finucane Show' for two decades before her death in January 2020.

Her husband, John Clarke, spoke at the launch of the bursary fund and said, There is a simple basic truth  if you educate a woman, you educate a family. If you educate a man, he gets a job. This has been proven time and time again.

The Community Foundation for Ireland has donated 10,000 to the fund, which was then matched with a further donation from a private donor. It's hoped the fund will grow over time.

Donations to the fund can be made here.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: September 09 2021

Expansion includes third track addition that will reduce congestion, expand LIRR capacity by 50 percent.

Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the reopening of Willis Avenue in downtown Mineola, unveiling a roadway that passes underneath two new railroad bridges. This underpass replaces a pair of street-level railroad crossings that for decades had created nuisances to nearby residents with the sounding of train horns and crossing bells, and to motorists who had to experience traffic backups with the closure of crossing gates. The crossings were the seventh and eighth of the eight to be eliminated along the LIRR Main Line Corridor in under two years as part of the project.

"This major milestone in the LIRR expansion is another testament to our unbreakable determination as New Yorkers to pursue big, bold infrastructure projects even as we face the most unpredictable and overwhelming circumstances," Governor Hochul said. "The Third Track project will be an invaluable asset in New York's passenger rail network because it will make travel on the LIRR more convenient and safer while significantly expanding train capacity, and we are indebted to the members of our workforce who were onsite working hard to keep this project on schedule through the pandemic."

Long Island Building Trades leader Matthew Aracich, SMART Union leader Anthony Simon and workers who completed the final underpasses on the Third Track project cut a ribbon held by MTA leaders to officially open the latest safety improvement. The Third Track project will bring enhanced service to Long Island, including additional reverse-commuting options, and is being completed by hundreds of construction workers whose trades include electricians, iron workers, laborers, teamsters, carpenters and many more.

"This is a major milestone for what remains the signature example of the MTA's new approach to delivering capital projects on time and on budget," MTA Acting Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said. "Prior to the start of the LIRR Expansion Project, it had been more than 21 years since the most recent crossing elimination, but thanks to our new way of doing capital work, the Third Track project team has eliminated eight busy railroad crossings in less than two years. This is also an example of how we are designing projects to bring completed components to the public without waiting for the entire project to be done."

Long Island Rail Road President Phillip Eng said, "Thanks to this latest grade crossing elimination milestone, this complex section of our rail system is now much safer for our customers and our staff, as well as motorists, cyclists, pedestrians in the communities we serve. The LIRR Expansion Project has always been about creating a safer, more convenient, and more robust railroad for the millions of people who use it each year. I'm proud to say that with each interim completion, we're making that a reality for customers now and for future generations of railroad riders."

Mattew Aracich, President of the Building & Construction Trades Council of Nassau and Suffolk Counties, said, "The Third Track project is a product of the private and public sectors working together to efficiently deliver a project that will benefit the public for decades to come. The real heroes behind this project are the workers, who even during a pandemic, showed up to work to make sure deadlines were met and the project as a whole was completed on time."

Anthony Simon, General Chairman, SMART Union, said, "It is only right that right before Labor Day members of organized labor come together to celebrate the completion of another major project. The work done day in and day out does not go unnoticedour workforce shows up, steps up, and delivers, and it is thanks to them that the railroad will be that much safer and more convenient for Long Islanders."

Including Willis Avenue, six crossings have reopened to traffic since Sept. 6, 2019, when crews reopened Urban Avenue in New Cassel as an underpass. In New Hyde Park, crews reopened Covert Avenue on Oct. 12, 2019, and New Hyde Park Road on Aug. 24, 2020. In Westbury, crews reopened School Street on Nov. 13, 2020. Two crossings, at S. 12th Street in New Hyde Park, and Main Street in Mineola, were closed on Oct. 24, 2020, and Feb. 27, 2021, respectively. Crews are building a pedestrian underpass at S. 12th Street, and a pedestrian overpass at Main Street.

The Willis Avenue crossing elimination is unique because it encompasses two separate crossings. The newly built underpass takes motorists safely underneath the tracks of the Main Line and the Oyster Bay Branch, helping vehicular and pedestrian traffic to flow freely, decreasing vehicle exhaust, eliminating warning bells and train horn noise and improving the community's quality of life.

MTA Construction & Development's timely elimination of the crossings is just one significant early benefit of the transformative expansion project, which also includes the renewal of stations, raising of bridges and upgrading of switches and infrastructure before crews add a third track to the LIRR Main Line to reduce congestion, expand the railroad's capacity by up to 50 percent in concert with service to Grand Central Terminal, and promote reverse-commuting to Long Island from New York City.
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Gear4Music PLC - York-based online musical instruments and equipment retailer - Says it is trading in-line with the company's expectations in a statement ahead of its annual general meeting. Adds that UK revenue returned to growth during July and August but European revenue has lagged at a slower pace after being impacted by "post-Brexit challenges".

"As previously announced, trading during the first quarter of financial year 2022 was stronger than the board had expected although, as anticipated, behind the exceptional period of trading during financial year 2021," comments Chief Executive Officer Andrew Wass.

Additionally, Gear4music announces the purchase of home audio and visual equipment retailer AV Online, for an undisclosed sum. The completion of the deal is dependent upon regulator approval, expected in or around December.

Current stock price: 960.55 pence, down 1.0% on Thursday

Year-to-date change: up 17%

By Will Paige; willpaige@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has secured MPs' backing for his controversial GBP12 billion tax hike to pay for health and social care despite a series of Tories refusing back the measure.

The House voted by 319 to 248 in favour of the 1.25 percentage point increase in national insurance contributions amid deep unhappiness among many Conservative MPs.

Five backbenchers voted against the measure while another 37 did not vote a although not all would have deliberately abstained, as some would have had permission to be away from Westminster.

The five rebels included former cabinet ministers Sir John Redwood and Esther McVey along with Sir Christopher Chope, Philip Davies and Neil Hudson.

Another five a Jake Berry, Steve Baker, Dehenna Davison, Richard Drax and Sir Roger Gale a indicated that they were deliberately abstaining.

The result announced in the chamber meant the government's working majority of more than 80 was reduced to 71 a although a division list released later recorded only 317 votes for the measure.

In recent months, there have been discrepancies for some votes over the number announced in the Commons and on the official division list.

The vote reflected concern within the Tory ranks that Johnson was not only abandoning a manifesto promise not to raise the main rates of taxes but that he was taking the tax burden to record peacetime levels.

There was dismay also that a scheme to place a lifetime cap of GBP86,000 on social care costs in England would primarily benefit elderly households in the more affluent parts of the South at the expense of working families elsewhere.

In the Commons debate, Berry, the leader of the Northern Research Group of Tory MPs, warned that by listing the levy on people's payslips as a health and social care charge, it would "never go down, it can only go up".

"No party is ever going to stand at an election and say I've got a good idea, vote for me, I'll cut the NHS tax," he said.

"It is fundamentally un-Conservative and in the long term it will massively damage the prospects of our party because we will never outbid the Labour Party in the arms race of an NHS tax."

Baker, another former minister, said the party was facing a "generational crisis" due to its inability to fund promises dating back more than a century.

"Now the Conservative Party, at some stage in our lifetimes, is going to have to rediscover what it stands for because I have to say at the moment we keep doing things we hate, because we feel we must," he said.

Earlier at Prime Minister's Questions, Johnson attempted to quell the backlash, suggesting the insurance industry could protect people from having to sell their homes to pay for the cost of care, amid claims the GBP86,000 cap would not be enough.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said that someone with assets of GBP186,000 a including their home a could still be forced to find GBP86,000 under the government's proposals.

"Where does the prime minister think that they are going to get that GBP86,000 without selling their home?" he said.

Johnson replied: "This is the first time that the state has actually come in to deal with the threat of these catastrophic costs, thereby enabling the private sector, the financial services industry, to supply the insurance products that people need to guarantee themselves against the costs of care."

Tory misgivings were underlined by an analysis by the Resolution Foundation think tank which argued the system was generationally unfair because the bulk of the money would come from working-age people.

It said the GBP86,000 cap would be of most benefit to those in the more affluent South of England, as they would see a greater share of their total assets protected while higher care costs meant they were also more likely to reach the limit and benefit from state support.

However, it warned that many people might still need to sell their home to pay for care if they did not have significant other assets.

Resolution Foundation chief executive Torsten Bell said Johnson had "turned his back on low taxes in favour of an NHS-dominated state".

He added: "The tax rises that will pay for a bigger NHS are generationally unfair, excluding rich retirees while prioritising wealthy landlords over their tenants.

"And while the social care cap will prevent people being hit with catastrophic costs, it will benefit southern households far more than those living in Red Wall seats."

However, Downing Street insisted that it represented a "progressive" approach to the issue of funding adult social care.

"Diseases like dementia affect families up and down the country," the prime minister's official spokesman said.

"This is an approach that provides certainty for people up and down the country, it is an approach which is progressive, which sees those who have more pay more."

By Gavin Cordon

source: PA

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - The following is a round-up of updates by London-listed companies, issued on Thursday and not separately reported by Alliance News:







Cohort PLC - technology firm - Says its subsidiary MASS Consultants Ltd has been awarded a further two-year extension to the joint command & staff training contract for the UK armed forces' strategic command. The contract extension has a value of over GBP11 million and is deliverable evenly over two years, commencing in July 2022.







IQGeo Group PLC - geospatial productivity and collaboration software developer - Says its software has been selected by a global top 10 electrical utility provider in Japan. The new contract is for more than 4,000 licences with an annual recurring subscription value greater than GBP500,000. This customer will be deploying IQGeo's geospatial software as part of a strategic project to monitor and respond to severe weather events that can have a major impact on electrical service for its commercial and residential customers.







Blackbird PLC - developer and seller of cloud native video editing platform - Says its platform is now being used by a total of 75 US TV stations for digital news production following TownNews' latest deployment.







Itaconix PLC - plant-based speciality polymers company - Reports the first shipment to an EU-based customer for its Itaconix TSI 322 sustainable detergent polymer. The Itaconix polymer is a key ingredient in a new non-phosphate dishwashing detergent which the customer is expected to have on European retail shelves by early 2022.







Ncondezi Energy Ltd - power development company - Says the engineering, procurement & construction power plant contract for the integrated Ncondezi 300 megawatts coal fired power project and coal mine in Tete, Mozambique, has been signed with China Machinery Engineering Corp at a virtual signing ceremony. The contract confirms China Machinery Engineering as the main contractor to provide design, engineering, manufacturing, procurement, construction, erection, installation and commissioning of the Ncondezi 2x150 megawatts coal-fired power station on an engineering, procurement & construction turnkey basis. The contract is valid for three years.







Aseana Properties Ltd - property developer in Malaysia and Vietnam - Agrees to sell the remaining 58 unsold residences at RuMa Hotel & Residences in Kuala Lumpur. Ownership of RuMa is split with 70% owned by Aseana and 30% by Ireka Corp Berhad. The gross sale price for the total transaction is MYR85.3 million, about USD20.5 million. It is expected that the transaction will complete within eight months.







RTW Venture Fund Ltd - investment firm - Says portfolio company Lycia Therapeutics Inc completes a USD70 million series B financing round. Lycia intends to use the proceeds from this financing round and a USD35 million upfront payment from a strategic collaboration with Eli Lilly to continue to progress its internal undisclosed discovery pipeline of Lytac degraders.

Separately, RTW says portfolio company InBrace completes a USD102 million series D financing round. InBrace intends to use the proceeds from this financing round to accelerate growth by expanding its sales force, launching new marketing initiatives, and driving further support and integration with new and existing orthodontic providers across the US.







Rurelec PLC - power producer - Says its Chilean subsidiary Termoelectrica Del Norte SA has agreed to dispose of its frame 6B gas turbine generating set and some associated ancillary equipment for USD1 million. The sale to Independent Power Corp PLC is expected to complete by no later than November 30. A non-refundable deposit of USD100,000 has been received by Rurelec.







NextEnergy Capital Ltd - investment firm - Reports the acquisition of Agenor, its first solar PV asset in Spain. Construction is expected to be completed by the second quarter of 2022 and the plant will benefit from an attractive power purchase agreement with a multinational investment grade corporate off-taker, the company notes.







GlobalData PLC - data analytics and consulting company - Agrees to acquire the Life Sciences business of IHS Markit Ltd. Completion, which is subject to certain closing conditions, is expected to occur during the final quarter of 2021 and will be funded from the company's existing cash resources and banking facilities. No financial details of the deal were disclosed.







Seraphim Space Investment Trust PLC - investment firm - Reports the acquisition of holding of Spire Global Inc from the Seraphim Space LP. The trust has acquired for cash 1.1 million shares in Spire valued at USD10.2 million.







Beeks Financial Cloud Group PLC - cloud computing and connectivity provider for financial markets - Buys new premises for the company headquarters. Beeks headquarters will move from the existing leased office of the Lumina Building to the nearby Riverside Building in Riverside Business Park, King's Inch Road, Braehead, in early 2022, following two years at the company's current address. With three times the square footage, these larger premises will provide the necessary space to fulfil the company's growth potential. Consideration for the property was GBP2.1 million, payable to Braehead Park Estates Ltd, which was funded out of existing company cash balances and available debt facilities.







BMO Commercial Property Trust Ltd - investment company - Reports the disposal of Cassini House located in St James's, London. The property is a prime multi-let freehold office building and represents the second largest holding in the portfolio. The company has sold the property for GBP145.5 million, reflecting an increase of 11% over the last external valuation of June 30 and 19% over the year-end valuation of 2020.







Round Hill Music Royalty Fund Ltd - investment company - Acquires the master royalty income of Dennis Elliott, a British musician and artist, who was the original drummer of the rock group Foreigner. The Catalogue comprises 71 original recordings spanning the first seven Foreigner studio albums.







Augean PLC - hazardous waste treatment and disposal company - Confirms that the court meeting and the general meeting convened to implement the takeover offer from Antwerp Management Ltd were adjourned. The court meeting will now start at 1130 BST on September 30 and the general meeting will start at 1145 BST on the same day.







Good Energy Group PLC - Chippenham, England-based energy company - Says Ecotricity Group Ltd had received valid acceptances of the takeover offer in respect of 324,213 Good Energy shares, representing 1.9% of the issued share capital of Good Energy. Accordingly, Ecotricity either holds, or has received valid acceptances of the offer in respect of, a total of 4.5 million Good Energy Shares, representing 27% of the issued share capital of Good Energy. On July 22, Ecotricity made a cash offer for Good Energy at 340 pence per share.







John Laing Group PLC - investor, developer and operator of privately financed, public sector infrastructure projects - Says the Court Hearing has been scheduled to be held on September 21, with the effective date of takeover of the company by Aqueduct Bidco Ltd is expected to be September 22. On May 19, John Laing Group and Aqueduct Bidco had reached an agreement on the terms of a recommended cash acquisition by Aqueduct Bidco of John Laing Group.







Feedback PLC - clinical communication company - Launches a new Bleepa product - CareLocker, a new proprietary and patient-centric cloud architecture that supports Bleepa's functionality whilst simultaneously creating patient specific records of care episodes. CareLocker will enable Bleepa to deliver care across provider settings in a secure and scalable way.







Sensyne Health PLC - artificial intelligence company - Launches Sensighto, an AI enabled data analytics platform for the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Sensight is built on a rapidly growing deep and broad set of anonymised and de-identified patient data derived from the research partnerships Sensyne has entered into with NHS Trusts and US health systems that currently covers 22.5 million patients across a range of disease areas.







Arecor Therapeutics PLC - biopharmaceutical company - Reports US Food & Drug Administration clearance of its investigational new drug application for AT247, the company's proprietary wholly owned ultra-rapid insulin for the treatment of diabetes. The decision is supported by a phase I clinical trial in the US in 24 participants with type I diabetes, to further explore the clinical benefits of AT247.







Oscillate PLC - investment firm - Says Excalibur Medicines Ltd, in which Oscillate's 25% investee Igraine PLC maintains a 2% interest, receives the final data from the Arcadia phase ll clinical trial which was conducted to assess a therapy that could treat diabetic patients suffering from Covid-19. Excalibur will immediately start to undertake commercial discussions with potential licensees and/or fundraise for further clinical trials to investigate AZD1656 in a larger study. Further analysis to determine the precise nature of the biological effects of AZD1656 that explain the observed clinical outcomes will also be conducted.







Greatland Gold PLC - natural resources company - Makes progress on the drilling campaign at the Havieron gold-copper deposit in the Paterson region of Western Australia. Drilling activities now include new results from the Growth drilling programme, which continue to support the potential for resource expansion of the Havieron gold-copper system. The latest results comprise assays for twelve new drill holes. A total of 194,456m of drilling from 230 drill holes has been completed since commencement of exploration activity.







Block Energy PLC - development and production company focused on Georgia - Says drilling operations on well WR-B1a have been completed. The company will now progress to test the well. Preparations for rigging down the ZJ40 drilling rig are now underway, to enable the installation of the Christmas tree over the wellhead. Once this operation has been completed, a production test will commence. The WR-B1a well is potentially transformative for Block Energy, targeting an estimated 2.1 million barrels of oil equivalent of recoverable oil and gas.







i3 Energy PLC - oil & gas company - Says Marten Hills Clearwater wells 01-12-075-26W4 and 02-12-075-26W4 - which were drilled, completed and tied into production infrastructure in late July - have now cleaned-up and flowed back drilling fluid lost during drilling operations. The wells are now flowing sales volumes and aggregate average production, post clean-up from both wells for the period August 23 to August 31 was 238 barrels of oil per day. i3 owns a 50% working interest in these wells. Elsewhere, i3 says it has completed the Wapiti production acquisition on July 20, with a April 1 effective date. These assets were producing 230 barrels of oil equivalent a day at the time of i3's acquisition. The second well in Wapiti drilling programme, 08-17-71-10W6, was spud on August 9.







Alien Metals Ltd - minerals exploration and development company - Makes progress on its inaugural drilling program at the high-grade Elizabeth Hill silver project in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia. Alien Metals says multiple occurrences of visible silver have been identified in drill core recovered from shallow drilling completed to date. Additionally, visible copper mineralisation has also been identified. Also, significant sulphides were identified in core associated with copper and nickel mineralisation. Alien Metals says the drilling has so far confirmed its geological interpretation that the original Elizabeth Hill silver deposit appears to be associated with a much larger polymetallic mineralised system.







Landore Resources Ltd - Guernsey-based exploration & development company - Reports progress of the drilling programme for 2020-21 on the BAM gold deposit, Junior Lake Property, Ontario, Canada. The company says srilling results from below the BAM East defined pit between 2550E and 2750E have continued to report wide zones of ore grade gold mineralisation within the gabbro "hanging wall" unit. There have been multiple sightings of visible gold in the drill core, Landore Resources notes.







Condor Gold PLC - exploration company - Reports the key findings of a technical report on its La India gold project prepared by SRK Consulting (UK) Ltd. This technical report presents the results of a strategic mining study to preliminary economic assessment standards completed on the project in 2021. "The highlight of the technical study is a post-tax, post upfront capital expenditure NPV of USD418 million, with an IRR of 54% and 12 month pay-back period, assuming a USD1,700 per ounce gold price, with average annual production of 150,000 ounces gold per annum for the initial nine years of gold production," says Chair & Chief Executive Mark Child.







Empire Metals Ltd - exploration and resource development company - Reports the commencement of the reverse circulation drilling campaign at the Central Menzies gold project. The programme targetes two prospects, both of which are along strike from the Yunndaga deposit, historically the largest gold mine in the Menzies field with over 270,000 ounces produced. A detailed review of the historical dataset identified several prospects within the project area. Two of these, known as Teglio and Nugget Patch, have been prioritised in this initial drilling campaign based on their elevated gold concentrations, and the potential to generate significant strike and lateral extension. Further drilling targets are expected to be generated within the project area once the geochemical soil sampling results are received. The soil sampling targeted areas of the greatest prospectivity based on the location of historical workings as well as areas of limited previous drilling.







Tectonic Gold PLC - gold exploration company - Says drilling at the Specimen Hill project has recommenced. Following preparations to mobilise the drilling team in August, the company delayed the rig to host on site due diligence and a joint testing program with a major international metals company. Portable XRF analysis was conducted over several target areas to test copper mineralisation and high-grade samples were sent for laboratory verification to confirm in-field testing grades. With initial third-party testing completed, the drill rig has now been brought to site. All access tracks and drill pads have been prepared. Further due diligence will continue while the Southern copper discovery undergoes maiden drill testing. The rig will then be taken to Goldsmith's Reef to test extensions below the pre World War 1 underground workings. The campaign will conclude at Main Lodes with further testing of the porphyry mineralisation intersecting by Tectonic's previous drilling.







BP Marsh & Partners PLC - management consulting company - Says it has continued to prove resilient to the ongoing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic over the six months to the end of July. The company says it has continued to focus on its existing portfolio, working closely with its respective management teams to ensure the on-going stability of its investments. BP Marsh & Partners says the six-month period closed with a total of 31 new investment opportunities having been presented to the firm, compared to 22 over the same period last year.







Mothercare PLC - clothing retailer for expectant mothers and children up to 8 years old - Says it has continued to be impacted by Covid-19 during this financial year, but still expects annual operating profit of over GBP15 million. For the first 21 weeks of our current financial year to March 2022, Mothercare's total retail sales were GBP136 million, generating an adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization of GBP4.0 million representing an improvement over the adjusted Ebitda of GBP2.2 million reported for the year ended March 27.







Dekel Agri-Vision PLC - West African agriculture company - Reports positive August like-for-like production and pricing results. The company says 1,852 tonnes of crude palm oil was sold in August, 25% higher than last year as stock on hand post the high season was sold into a buoyant local crude palm oil market. Meanwhile, prices continue to remain very strong with average prices achieved in August of EUR947, a 76% increase in average realised crude palm oil prices compared to August 2020.







FIH Group PLC - passenger ferry company - Says a resilient trading performance in the Falkland's allowed it to record a small pretax profit for the full year to March 31 despite coronavirus pandemic. Cash flow remained positive and the company retains significant cash balances at financial year end of GBP14.6 million and GBP9.6 million at June 30 following the repayment of the GBP5 million government CBILS loan. Current trading for the company is in line with the Board's expectations, FIH notes.







Kropz PLC - African phosphate developer - Says appeal from the West Coast Environmental Protection Association against its water use licence has been dismissed by the Water Tribunal. The South African Department of Water & Sanitation granted the water use licence to Kropz Elandsfontein Pty Ltd in April 2017. The water use activities were approved by the director general, who was satisfied that no environmental damage would result from those activities, and that any impact on the environment could be prevented or would be adequately mitigated. An appeal was lodged by the West Coast Environmental Protection Association, in June 2017. The appeal was heard, over four sittings, from October 2019 to February 2021. This appeal has been dismissed by the Water Tribunal.







Target Healthcare REIT PLC - purpose-built care homes operator - Increases the size of the fundraise to a maximum of GBP125 million amid strong demand. On August 26, the company said it plans to raise GBP100 million via share issue under existing placing programme at price of 115 pence per share."The investment manager currently has its strongest pipeline of acquisition opportunities to date, including a major portfolio of 18 care homes which the company has entered into an exclusivity agreement to acquire," it said at the time.







Speedy Hire PLC - tools, plant and specialist hire equipment provider - Says over 21% of its shareholders at the annual general meeting on Thursday vote against approval of the directors' remuneration report for the financial year ended March 31. Following the AGM, Speedy Hire says its remuneration committee will continue to engage with its major shareholders to fully understand shareholders' concerns.







By Evelina Grecenko; evelinagrecenko@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
(Alliance News) - Britain and France locked horns on Thursday over reported plans by London to turn back boats carrying migrants across the Channel, triggering alarm and anger in Paris.

At least 14,100 people have now crossed the Channel to the UK on small boats this year, according to Britain's domestic Press Association news agency a some 6,000 more than for the whole of 2020.

A record 828 people crossed over from France on a single day in late August, as traffickers took advantage of favourable late-summer weather.

The growing number of boats is proving increasingly embarrassing for Home Secretary Priti Patel, who has carved out a reputation for being tough on immigration and law and order.

"Taking back control" of Britain's border was a key part of the campaign to take the country out of the EU in the divisive 2016 Brexit referendum.

But several newspapers said she has now secured legal advice and sanctioned the use of "pushback" tactics to turn back the small boats before they reach Britain's south coast.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson's Downing Street office said Thursday that "it's right that our Border Force has the right range of tactics to address this problem".

Patel has also reportedly threatened to withhold GBP54 million in funding pledged to Paris to help tackle the issue.

However, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said Thursday that France would not accept Britain violating international maritime law.

"France will not accept any practice that breaks maritime law, nor any financial blackmail," Darmanin wrote on Twitter, a day after meeting Patel.A

France has a policy of not intercepting or turning back migrant boats unless they ask for help, and instead escorts them to British waters.

That has stoked anger in Brexit-supporting sections of the British media and the government in London, who accuse France of shirking its responsibilities.

France for its part has said it would not make payment "conditional on numerical targets", warning that to do so would damage relations.

"Such an approach would reflect a serious loss of confidence in our cooperation," a French interior ministry source said.

Downing Street insisted that Britain "won't break maritime law" with the new plans.

It also dismissed the claims of blackmail, saying "we've provided our French counterparts significant sums of money and we've agreed another bilateral agreement backed by millions of pounds."

Britain's reported new strategy has been trialled for months, overseen by the Royal Marines, the Daily Telegraph said.

However, Border Force officials have told ministers the tactic could only be used in certain circumstances and was not a "silver bullet", it added.

Johnson on Wednesday told parliament that Britain must use every possible tactic to halt the "vile trade" of traffickers bringing record numbers of migrants across the Channel.

Johnson praised Patel for dealing with the problem "in the best possible way, which is to make sure that they don't leave those French shores".A

In cooperation with Britain, France has doubled policeA numbers on its beaches, preventing more than 10,000 crossing attempts.

But Johnson added that "clearly as time goes on and this problem continues, we are going to have to make sure that we use every possible tactic at our disposal to stop what I think is a vile trade".

MPs are scrutinising proposed government legislation that would make it harder for those who enter the UK to stay by claiming asylum.

Controversially, it would make it a criminal offence to knowingly arrive in the UK without permission, angering organisations working with asylum seekers.

By James PHEBY

source: AFP

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Exton, PA (19341)

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Manchester Center, VT (05254)

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Leonardo DiCaprio has chosen the town of Trujillo in Caceres, Extremadura, as the location for his diamond company Diamond Foundry.

This is in order to take advantage of the solar and photovoltaic energy guaranteed by the climatic conditions of the area.

"The availability of solar energy is quite high in Extremadura and we want our foundry to be powered by renewable energies," explained Martin Roscheisen, the co-founder and CEO of Diamond Foundry, in an interview with El Pais.

After filming 'Blood Diamond', DiCaprio was horrified by the slave-like conditions that people have to endure in Africa as they try to extract diamonds, so he set up a company in Silicon Valley to produce the gemstone synthetically, as recognised by the Diamond Foundry's slogan 'Just Diamond. No mining'.

"We will produce diamond crystal chips to make semiconductors more efficient," Roscheisen explained.

"A fraction of the production will also go to the so-called mid-tier diamond industry, large buyers in India that serve all other industries that need diamonds, including jewellery."

DiCaprio's company's plant will occupy a 30,000 square metre site on the Arroyo Caballo industrial estate.

It will have plasma reactors that will be in operation 24 hours a day, a 120 megawatt solar plant and a 60 megawatt storage infrastructure. It will also employ around 300 people.
Robert Elton Rector, 84 yrs of Wilburton, Ok passed away at His home in Wilburton, Ok on Friday, September 3, 2021. Memorial Services will be on Friday, October 1, 2021 at 2 pm at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel in Wilburton, Ok Officiating will be Mr. Jay Caudill. Services are under the dir
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Ryan Suppe is the Boise City Hall and Treasure Valley business reporter for the Idaho Press. Contact him at 208-344-2055 (ext. 3038). Follow him on Twitter @salsuppe.
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Last week on the House floor, State Rep. Kathleen Willis, D-Addison, pushes to agree with the governor's Changes. Wednesday, state Rep. Mike Marron, R-Fithian, state Rep. Avery Bourne, R-Morrisonville, oppose the bill. Reform For Illinois Executive Director Alisa Kaplan talks about the need 
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Nayak (2001) is a political action thriller starring Kapoor, Rani Mukerji, and Amrish Puri. The film is a remake of S Shankar's successful Tamil film Mudhalvan. Its been two decades since the movie was released but it still remains relevant to the political scenario of India. With newspapers and digital news outlets churning out stories about religious riots and common men being the bait, nothing has changed.



Anil Kapoor played the role of Shivaji Rao and he did give justice to the role. In a heated argument with the CM of Maharashtra, Balraj Chauhan played by Amrish Puri, Anil Kapoors character blamed him for the corruption in the state and in order to prove him wrong, Balraj gives him the opportunity to become the CM for a day. This is when you get to see Shivaji starting his political journey and you also get to see the dirty politics.





Anil Kapoor and Amrish Puri gave one of the most memorable and powerful performances of their career. Its hard to reimagine Nayak with any other actor than Anil as Shivaji.

But, he wasnt the first choice. Yes, you heard it right. Filmmaker Shankar, who helmed the movie, had first approached Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan for the film. In an interview with HT, Anil Kapoor said, I pursued Shankar (director) after Nayak was passed up by both Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh. To this date, Im glad I did.

Not just that, we also have dug out an old interview of Shankar with Filmfare where he revealed why SRK and Aamir rejected the movie and how Anil came on board. About Aamir not saying yes to the project, the director said, But the two of us faced a huge communication gap. His views about Mudhalvan (1999) didnt match mine, so I quickly moved on.

He also revealed that SRK wasnt interested either and said, Shah Rukh was more receptive than Aamir but he begged off saying that since he had played a television reporter in his home production Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000) which had just been released, he wasnt keen on taking on a similar role at such a short interval.

Finally shedding light on how Anil came on board, he shared, Id heard that Anil was one of the most disciplined actors in the Hindi industry and so I decided to sign him on. My gamble has paid off. Anil Kapoor has completed my film in record time, and he showed a level of discipline which I thought was there only down South.





Well, we are glad that the director finally zeroed down to Anil Kapoor for the role as no other actor could have done justice to the character of Shivaji.
In a recent interview, Saif Ali Khan said that too much religion worries him. The actor describes himself as agnostic.

Saif Ali Khan told PTI in a recent interview, I am agnostic in real life. I am very secular in the sense that I think too much religion worries me because they put an emphasis on the afterlife. And not enough emphasis on this life.

He added, I find too much of religion to be an organisation and too many problems  associated with basically my god, or your god or whose god is better.

The actor said that he is religious in a way that he believes in a higher power but what that power is he doesnt have any idea.

He said, I pray and I try to focus my own energy on things. Im more spiritual. I am not about the afterlife I have a very sad feeling that once you die, its just lights out. Thats the end, nothing more. I sometimes hope there is more. And Im not hundred percent sure that there isnt one.

He added, I fancy the older I get the less convinced I am, I think thats a self-defense mechanism in the brain. I think the younger you are the more you can be like this. But certainly, I dont get very carried away by the rules and regulations of religion.

Saif Ali Khans beliefs in ghosts and god are what attracted him to his upcoming film Bhoot Police.

He said, Something has to grab you that you would want to be part of the whole process. When you hear a story or when you read a script, you visualize the movie in a way and you think, Is this what I wanted to do? This is one of the better scripts that I have read. Theres more depth to it than I think people would expect and it is a really interesting film.
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This is How Common Hate Crimes are in Minnesota Compared to Other States
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In summer 2020, The New York Times coordinated a nationwide project to document the lives of Americans out of work because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study involved collaborating with 11 other local newsrooms around the U.S. The Messenger-Inquirer was the only newspaper from Kentucky in the collaboration. The resulting collection of stories was published Oct. 23, 2020, in the New York Times print edition and at nytimes.com/outofwork. The following list is the Messenger-Inquirer's local unemployment coverage from that time period; read more by clicking the "New York Times Project" header. Click on "Out Of Work In America" to go to the full
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MDHHS launches a video aimed to support families of children and youth with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders in honor of FASD awareness day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 9, 2021

Contact: Chelsea Wuth, 517-241-2112

LANSING, Mich. - To help promote International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day on Sept. 9, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is announcing the release of 'Understanding FASD and Its Impact on Children and Youth,' a video that explores the basics of FASD and the behavior of children and youth with FASD. This video is for parents of a child with a diagnosed or suspected FASD and professionals who work with families and their children with a diagnosed or suspected FASD.

The Sept. 9 date was chosen to recognize this day as it represents nine months of an alcohol-free pregnancy. Research on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders indicates 1 in 20 children are affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. FASD is twice as prevalent in children as autism spectrum disorder and Down's Syndrome. Alcohol is the most damaging substance of abuse compared with use of marijuana, methamphetamine, opioids and heroin during pregnancy.

FASD is an umbrella term used to describe preventable birth defects and intellectual and/or developmental disabilities resulting from prenatal alcohol exposure. These conditions can range from mild to severe and affect each person differently. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe of the FASD spectrum. People with FAS can manifest physical features, such as a small head size, low birth weight or smooth ridge between the nose and upper lip, but some may not present these physical features. Common behavioral and intellectual disabilities of people with FASDs include:

 Difficulty with learning or memory

 Hyperactive behavior

 Difficulty with attention

 Speech or language delays

 Poor reasoning and judgement skills

"It's important to note that we offer resources for both expectant moms and families with children and youth who may be adversely affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorders," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. "Services provided in the public mental health system for children affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and their families are tailored to meet the needs of this unique population. Our efforts to help children with FASD also include training to improve children's mental health providers' understanding of FASD and its impact on a child and their family."

FASDs are completely preventable by abstaining from alcohol while pregnant and are in fact the only preventable form of intellectual disability. There is no scientific evidence that confirms any amount of alcohol that will not affect the developing fetus. In 2019, an estimated 58.1 percent of women of reproductive age in Michigan, aged 18-44 years, reported one or more drinks of alcohol during the last 30 days and 20.2 percent reported binge drinking four or more drinks of alcohol on any one occasion during the last 30 days, according to the Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey.

The Division of Mental Health Services to Children and Families in the Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Administration within MDHHS has provided statewide training on basic information about FASD since 2017. This training has been provided to community mental health service programs (CMHSPS) and community partners. Additionally, select CMHSPS are trained and implement practices that focus on children and youth with FASD and their families.

For more information, visit Michigan.gov/MDHHS or CDC.gov/FASD.

To learn more about trainings, click here.

Visit Mcfares.org for family support and other resources.
AG Nessel Joins Coalition in Fight to Protect Women's Access to Abortion Services

AG Nessel Joins Coalition in Fight to Protect Women's Access to Abortion Services

Attorney General

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel 517-599-2746

Public inquiries: 517-335-7622

September 9, 2021

LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined a coalition of 20 other attorneys general in filing an amicus brief in Planned Parenthood South Atlantic v. Wilson arguing that South Carolina's "fetal heartbeat" abortion regulations harm women's healthcare as a whole and a lower court's ruling blocking the law should be upheld. Additionally, the coalition also argues that the collective impact of numerous states across the country enacting restrictive abortion laws, or eliminating access to abortions, harms women's healthcare nationwide.

"This law and others like it around the country only serve to harm women's access to healthcare and must be struck down," Nessel said. "We have an obligation to speak out against these restrictive regulations and maintain our commitment to protecting a woman's right to make decisions about her own body."

In February 2021, South Carolina passed the South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act that prohibits abortions upon the detection of an embryonic or fetal heartbeat, effectively banning abortion after six weeks. Immediately following the passage of the Act, Planned Parenthood South Atlantic filed suit seeking a temporary injunction, which the federal district court granted.

In their amicus brief, the coalition argues that access to safe and legal abortion is an essential component of women's healthcare and restrictive abortion laws, like the South Carolina Fetal Heartbeat and Protection from Abortion Act, lead to worse health outcomes for women. The coalition also argues that laws banning abortion after the detection of a fetal heartbeat have harmful spillover effects on miscarriage treatment and other healthcare needs.

Additionally, the coalition argues that the restrictions the Act places on women could also threaten residents of neighboring states as well as those states' healthcare systems, explaining, "South Carolina's restrictive abortion laws will cause its citizens to seek abortion care in [neighboring states], potentially straining their healthcare systems." The coalition further says, "[g]iven that numerous states across the country have enacted similarly restrictive or more restrictive legislation than South Carolina's Act[and] [i]f access to safe and lawful abortions were banned in large geographic portions of the country, it would create vast "abortion deserts" in which access to abortion care may be unobtainable for many people due to the obstacles created by the sheer distance from lawful abortion care."

Joining Attorney General Nessel in filing this amicus brief are the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and the District of Columbia.
Reservations Being Accepted for Sept. 17 Scholarship Fundraiser for Michigan's Foster Care Youth

Reservations Being Accepted for Sept. 17 Scholarship Fundraiser for Michigan's Foster Care Youth

Sept. 9, 2021

Michigan students who experienced foster care will receive college scholarships through money raised at the Sept. 17 Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund Benefit Dinner in Detroit.

The ninth annual Fostering Futures Scholarship Detroit is being held from 5:30-9:30 p.m. at the Roostertail, 100 Marquette Drive, in Detroit. The cost to attend is $100 or $1,000 for 10 seats.

The event includes dinner, a variety of raffle opportunities -- including a mystery raffle -- and DJ Matt Wade of T2 Music. Carolyn Clifford of WXYZ-TV 7 returns as emcee for the evening, and the keynote speaker is Robert E. Thomas, a patent consultant, a foster care consultant and chairman of the Detroit Board of Zoning Appeals.

"Don't miss this opportunity to participate in the Detroit dinner event and to help raise money so those young adults who experienced foster care can realize their dream of a college education," said Robin Lott, director of Treasury's Office of Postsecondary Financial Planning. "Every dollar helps with books, tuition, housing or other eligible needs. If you can't make it in-person, please consider an online donation."

The Michigan Education Trust and Michigan Departments of Treasury and Health and Human Services are again teaming up to host the fundraiser.

Reservation information is available at www.michigan.gov/fosteringfutures. Individuals who cannot attend the event may donate to the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund online.

Close to 11,500 youth are in the Michigan foster care system run by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Nationally, fewer than 10% of former foster youth nationally enroll in college after high school and fewer than 3% eventually earn a degree.

The Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund provides former foster care students who may not have adequate financial resources to attend college with a scholarship. During the 2021-22 academic year, 467 students at 58 different institutions are eligible for support.

Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund is a Section 170(c) organization, so all contributions are eligible for an income tax deduction.

# # #

Press Contacts: Danelle Gittus or Ron Leix, Treasury Public Information Officers, at 517-335-2167
LUDINGTON  Western Michigan ENT in Ludington will move to a new location effective Sept. 15.

The doctor's office will move from its current location at 7 Atkinson Drive, Suite 305 in the Medical Office Building at Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital, according to a news release from Rachel Vasquez, director of Patient Services for the Western Michigan ENT/Lakeshore Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Center.

The new address will be 250 N. Nelson Road, Suite 1, in Ludington, which is the former Gentry Medical Building. The phone number of the clinic will remain the same, 231-843-6557.

J. Ben Hengy, DO, Andrew Mendians, DO, Brenda Beckrow-McCann, AuD, Rachel Vasquez and Anne Kuenzer, office managers, as well as the entire medical care team and office support team will be moving to the new location.

The move will take place between Sept. 15 and Sept. 19, with the clinic opening in the new location on Sept. 20.

We have been in our current Ludington location for 22 years, said Hengy. While that location has served us well, we have experienced significant growth and needed to find office space that could better accommodate us. The former Gentry Medical Building will give us the room we need to expand our office footprint, while also being a familiar medical office in Ludington and one that is very easy to access, with plenty of parking that is close to the building. Weve enjoyed our relationship with Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital and want to thank them for being excellent partners with us over the years. Were excited about this next step and appreciate everyones patience while we make this transition.

The last day of operations at its Atkinson Drive location will be Sept. 14. The office phone line will be available to address any patient concerns, and the Manistee office, located at 1806 E. Parkdale Ave., Suite 3, will be open throughout the days of the Ludington office move. The Ludington office will be closed from Sept. 15-17.
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WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Poland's Senate voted on Thursday to reject a media bill seen as targeting a U.S.-owned television network's ability to keep broadcasting independent news that is often critical of the right-wing government.

However, the Senate has no power to stop the bill altogether, as it will now return to parliament's lower house. If it passes there, it would then go to President Andrzej Duda  who, however, has said he would not sign it into law in its current form.

The bill, which passed parliament's lower house last month, would prevent any non-European entity from owning more than a 49% stake in television or radio broadcasters in Poland.

Its practical effect would be to force Discovery Inc., the U.S. owner of Polands largest private television network, TVN, to sell its Polish holdings.

The nationalist governing party, Law and Justice, argues that it's a matter of national security to prevent outside bodies from being able to influence public opinion within Poland.

Bogdan Klich, a senator with the opposition party Civic Platform, called the law an act of war against freedom of speech.

Pavol Szalaj, a representative of the Paris-based press freedom group Reporters Without Borders traveled to Warsaw to urge its rejection, saying to a group of protesters outside the Senate ahead of the vote that press freedom in Poland is under threat. He cited other threats in the past to media diversity and said that the today's target is TVN.

TVN has been a jewel in the crown of Polish democracy for decades, he said.

Senators in the 100-seat body voted 53-37 against the bill, with three abstentions. When it returns to the Sejm, the lower house of parliament, the vote on the bill will also be a test of whether the ruling party still has a legislative majority following some defections in the governing coalition.

TVN also faces a separate challenge: A refusal to date by the broadcast authority to renew the license for TVN24, the network's all-news station, which expires later this month.

Kasia Kieli, Discoverys president and managing director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, said that despite the Senate's vote the company is still concerned about the future of TVN and independent media in Poland as the bill can still be passed by the Sejm and the license for our news channel TVN24 is still not renewed.

Duda, though an ally of Law and Justice, last month called the bill a controversial solution that is incomprehensible" to the United States, citing the U.S. attitude toward the protection of property and freedom of speech.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last month that the U.S. was deeply troubled by the proposed legislation.
The lack of a sewer system entered the conversation of a senior living development in the Village of Sanford when the council met Tuesday evening.

Sandy Holka updated the village government on her findings, noting that Coleman built 60 units in all, in two phases, using subsidies. However, Coleman owned the property and had a sewer system. Village of Sanford President Dolores Porte said if the village wanted to go that way, it would have to address both the property issue and the sewer system.

This is something the village wants to see, Porte said.

She suggested partnering with a developer who wants to run the complex, with the builder funding the project.

There still are other questions that need to be addressed, including where such a property would be located.

Sanford Village Council members agreed there is a need for such amenities to grow the village, and there needs to be further discussion regarding senior housing and a municipal sewer system. Porte recommended creating a focus team.

There has been growing interest in a new mural in downtown Sanford, which is part of the villages rebuilding. Some business owners are stepping forth asking for one on their buildings. Artist Andrew Rieder has been working on a large mural, portraying Sanfords past, present and future. He remains excited to bestow the work on the village.

Sanford s Stacey Gannon, former executive director of the Saginaw Art Museum Temple Theater Foundation reached out to Rieder, who was more than happy to help. With the added interest in the mural, Gannon would like to see it expand.

My hope is this will serve as a springboard for arts and humanities, Gannon said.

Gannon is working on getting a non-profit status for the endeavor. She already has investors interested, and she kindly deems the activity Village Arts.

Gannon indicated she would do the grunt work for the project.

Porte asked Gannon to address the council about the project and how it is involved in the villages future.

In other business, Porte also addressed two tickets in the village for blight and a dog ordinance violation. Both will head to court on Sept. 27.

There was also discussion about an enforcement officer in the village. There will be more discussion about how the position will work in the future.
LAFAYETTE, Calif. (AP)  A volunteer crossing guard pushed children from the path of a vehicle that ended up striking and killing him near a middle school in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Ashley Dias, 45, is being hailed as a hero after he saved a group of children leaving Stanley Middle School in Lafayette from an SUV Wednesday.

Contra Costa County Sheriffs Office said in a statement that Lafayette police officers and residents pulled an unresponsive victim from under the car. Officers administered CPR until he was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced deceased.

A child who was also struck by the vehicle had minor injuries and was taken to a hospital as a precaution, the office said.

Officials didn't identify Dias but his parents, Fabio and Gloria Dias, told KGO-TV it was their son. They said Ashley lived in San Francisco but that when he visited them, he would often help out at the nearby school because they were short on guards.

The father of one of the kids came to me, a doctor at John Muir Hospital, and he said, If it wasnt for your son, my daughter would be dead, Gloria told KGO-TV through tears. He died a hero, but hell never come back to us, hes gone.

The Diases did not immediately return a message Thursday from The Associated Press seeking comment.

Ashley Dias was a clinical research associate at a biotechnology firm and had been volunteering as a crossing guard at Stanley Middle School, the same middle school he attended while growing up in Lafayette, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

The driver of the SUV is the grandmother of a Stanley student who was in the car during the crash, KGO-TV reported. Her son said both his mom and son are home and physically okay. He declined an interview but said, we are so incredibly sorry and devastated by this unthinkably horrible accident.

The driver has been interviewed by authorities and is cooperative, sheriffs officials said.
MIDDLETOWN  It was a morning of elation for students and staff Thursday as the Lawrence Elementary School community welcomed children returning to classes for a new academic year.

With customized masks, new shoes, and backpacks brandishing pink bedazzles or Minecraft characters, students lined up to have their temperature taken before entering the building to ensure safety for all during the pandemic. Some nervously clung to their parents while others excitedly ran up to greet friends.

Jim Gaudreau in entering his 17th year as principal of Lawrence School. He was the first person to greet every student who arrived. Every year is just as exciting, he said.

This year differs from last in that all students are returning together rather than in cohorts, as was done during the height of the pandemic. School staff are well-prepared, the principal said.

Middletown Superintendent of Schools Michael Conner greeted his own son, Michael Jr., who is entering first grade. His mother, Viviana Conner, dropped him off and posed for a family photo before waving goodbye to her husband and son.

Were super excited, she said. I know theyre taking all safety precautions.

Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, state Sen. Matt Lesser, D-Middletown, and Mayor Ben Florsheim were among those who stopped by for the occasion.

Bysiewicz outlined some of the COVID-19 safety precautions in place, including mandated masks, weekly screenings, and vaccine clinics for students age 12 and older that will be visiting districts across the state in the coming months.

The state worked hard to make sure kids could be back in person, she said, We know that in-person learning is the most effective thing for these kids for their learning and development.

Bysiewicz and two of her sisters attended Moody Elementary School across town, but one sister attended Lawrence. She said that the excitement in the air was the same as when she and her sisters were young.

This gives me visions of going back to school at Moody, Bysiewcz said.

Some of the 371 students returning to Lawrence were arriving for their first day of kindergarten.

Such was the case with Ashley Riveras son Cooper. Last night, he was excited, but this morning, he was a little nervous, Rivera said. Her mother, Cindy, couldnt help feeling emotional.

Im going to cry, Cindy Rivera said. She said she remembers carrying around a large, heavy video camera to capture her daughter Ashleys first day of school. This time around, all she needed was her cell phone to capture the moment.

I think hell do well, Rivera said.

This was Florsheims third stop of the morning after greeting students at the high school and new Beman Middle School. He especially enjoyed the excitement alongside middle-graders entering the state-of-the-art $87.35 million facility.

Its been incredible, Florsheim said.

adam.hushin@hearstmediact.com
GUILFORD  The Guilford Art League, which promotes an interest in the arts and provides support for regional artists, will give artists and their work three upcoming weeks in the spotlight.

The organizations 73rd annual Juried Exhibit & Sale will run from Monday to Oct. 2 in the Mill Gallery at the center, 411 Church St.

The gallery and shop are open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Prizes will be awarded in several categories at the opening reception Friday from 6 to 8 p.m.

Entries have been open to Connecticut artists and a wide range of media, including acrylics, collage, mixed media, oils, watercolor, pastels, sculpture, printmaking and photography, according to a press release. It is juried by Connecticut artist Lenny Moskowiz.

The Guilford Art League, which supports artists of all ages, abilities, mediums and styles, and organizes many exhibitions and social events each year, has more than 200 members from all over Connecticut, the news release said.

Its beginnings were humble, according to the groups website, guilfordartleague.org. In 1947, a group of local artists exhibited their artwork hanging from a clothesline strung across the Guilford Green. Today, the League continues to promote the visual arts.

The opportunities for members to exhibit their work and meet fellow artists include two member shows each year, the spring Carry-in Supper with a speaker, participation in the summer expo on the Guilford Green, and quarterly exhibitions in the Guilford Community Center.

Details on membership can be found at the website.

The groups biggest event of the year is the juried show, which is usually heavily attended, an announcement about the show said. Both this exhibit and the expo were canceled last year, but the league finds 2021 is proving to be a better year than the last  creatively, socially, and health-wise, its website said.

The upcoming show is in need of volunteers. For information, contact co-chairpersons Denise Casey at dencasey@comcast.net or 203-453-1609, or Ava Orphanoudakis at avaorph@gmail.com or 203-689-5342.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Military search dogs and goose-stepping trainers. Health workers wearing gas masks and red hazmat suits. And a slimmed down, beaming Kim Jong Un in a cream-colored business suit. The parade marking North Koreas celebration of its 73rd anniversary was a marked departure from past militaristic displays, with a domestic audience worried about the pandemic likely in mind.

The parade late Wednesday centered around paramilitary organizations and public security forces protecting the capital, Pyongyang, instead of the military units that handle the most important weapons in the North Korean leader's nuclear and missile arsenal.

In January and last October, North Korea rolled out its most provocative strategic weapons, threatening Asian rivals and the American homeland, but there was no indication the latest parade showcased ballistic weapons.

Thursdays state media coverage of the event that began late Wednesday indicated its message was aimed at a domestic audience.

Experts say the toned-down event reflected the harsh challenges facing North Korea as its broken, mismanaged economy is further strained by continuing U.S.-led sanctions, prolonged border closures because of the pandemic, and flooding that caused food shortages in recent years.

North Korean state television, which broadcast a recording of the event on Thursday evening, showed the performers and tens of thousands of spectators roaring as Kim appeared as the clock struck midnight.

Kim, flanked by senior officials and smiling widely, kissed the children who presented him with flowers and waved to the crowd before taking his spot at a balcony overlooking the brightly lit Kim Il Sung Square, named after his grandfather who founded the nation in 1948.

Kim was visibly slimmer than at the start of the year, having lost a good deal of weight several months ago. Experts say the weight loss is likely an attempt to improve his health, rather than a sign of illness, since he has continued his regular public activity.

Paratroopers carrying North Korean flags jumped from planes, while fighter jets flew in formation, firing what appeared to be flares across the night sky. There also were fireworks and illuminated drones that formed the North Korean flag.

Kim apparently did not deliver a speech during the event.

There had been expectations that North Korea would show off missiles and other important weapons to pressure the Biden administration amid a diplomatic freeze with the U.S. after Kim failed to leverage his arsenal for economic benefits during the Trump years.

But the parade shows that North Korea is too preoccupied with its domestic problems to attempt to deliver provocative messages overseas, said Hong Min, an analyst at South Koreas Institute for National Unification.

The parade shows that the government felt a need to build unity domestically  the population is clearly suffering amid the pandemic and social complaints are likely building up, said Hong. He said it was highly unusual for North Korea to showcase its civil defense units in a parade.

North Korea needs to enforce military-like discipline while mobilizing its civilians in campaigns to rebuild the economy and areas damaged by floods. There arent many ways for the leadership to encourage and motivate them, other then showcasing them on televised parades, he said.

Hong said it would be problematic for North Korea to flaunt provocative weapons and create diplomatic friction when it will need to rely on the outside world for coronavirus vaccines.

Choi Young-sam, spokesman of South Koreas Foreign Ministry, said the U.S. and South Korean militaries were closely monitoring North Korea over the parade but declined to give Seouls assessment of the Norths intent.

Seouls Unification Ministry said 2013 was the last time North Korea held a parade of the Worker-Peasant Red Guards, a national civil defense organization consisting of millions of North Koreans between the ages of 17 and 60, which could loosely be compared to military reserve forces of other countries.

KCNA described Red Guard units from Pyongyang and other regions marching through the square and praised their contributions in rebuilding communities destroyed by natural disasters and efforts to improve the economy. The marchers also included anti-virus workers from the Ministry of Public Health, who paraded in bright red hazmat suits and masks. KCNA credited them with firmly protecting the security of the country and its people from the worldwide pandemic.

It said Ri Il Hwan, a member of the ruling Workers Partys Politburo, said in a speech that the government will continue to strengthen its defense capabilities and firmly defend the dignity and fundamental interests of our people and solve everything our own way with our own efforts on the principle of self-reliance.

North Korea often celebrates major state anniversaries by displaying thousands of goose-stepping troops and its most advanced military hardware in parades at Kim Il Sung Square.

The event was the third straight parade held at night  timed for spectacle.

Amid the stalemate in diplomacy with the U.S., Kim and his powerful sister have emphasized that North Korea will boost its nuclear deterrent and preemptive strike capabilities while demanding that Washington abandon its hostile policies  a reference to the continuing U.S. economic sanctions and refusal to accept North Korea as a nuclear power.

But experts say Kim is facing perhaps his toughest moment as he approaches a decade in rule, with North Korea maintaining an indefinite border lockdown to keep out the coronavirus, and no prospect in sight for the ending of international sanctions.
STAMFORD  The lawyer for a man accused of slaying a 19-year-old Stamford High School graduate following a months-long feud has asked a judge to review whether there is enough evidence to warrant a murder charge against him.

Attorney Stephan Seeger requested a hearing of probable cause on behalf of his client, 21-year-old Everett Brown, during a brief hearing held remotely Thursday afternoon.

Brown, also a Stamford resident, faces a murder charge along with multiple other charges for his alleged role in the fatal shooting of Courtney Lewis, 19, during a car meet-up in a West Side parking lot on April 18.

Under state statute, all murder defendants are permitted a probable cause hearing though most defendants often choose to waive them.

During a probable cause hearing, the state presents its evidence and a judge is called upon to decide if there is enough to justify a murder charge.

At Thursdays hearing, Seeger said he and his client had discussed the pros and cons of holding a probable cause hearing and decided to move forward with it.

Local defense attorneys say they often opt against holding probable cause hearings because the evidence presented during the hearing goes on the record and is permanently preserved, even if a witness dies or is not able to testify at the trial.

Browns probable cause hearing is tentatively scheduled to begin on Dec. 8.

Brown was arrested April 21 and charged with unlawful discharge of a firearm, first-degree reckless endangerment, carrying a pistol without a permit, risk of injury and carrying a dangerous weapon.

Three weeks after his initial arrest, Brown was also charged with murder and four counts of first-degree assault.

According to the arrest warrant, Brown had a long-running feud with Lewis dating back to a confrontation the two had at a prior car meet in Norwalk around September 2020.

In the lead-up to the shooting, Brown allegedly messaged Lewis on social media, sending him pictures of handguns and claiming he and his friends from New York were going to come after Lewis, according to the warrant.

The threats and intimidation got so bad, the warrant said, that Lewis even told a loved one that he wanted to make sure they werent around in case Brown ever took his life, the warrant said.

When Lewis learned Brown was present at the April 18 meet-up at RPM Raceway near the Greenwich border, he became incensed and confronted him, the warrant said.

According to the warrant, Lewis and Brown argued. Brown then allegedly pulled a gun and fired multiple shots into Lewis chest.

Two others  a 33-year-old and a 17-year-old  were also struck by the gunfire, police said at the time. Both suffered non-life-threatening injuries, according to police.
BRANFORD  The nonprofit behind a new pop-up gallery for Shoreline artists plans to expand onto the Branford Green for one Saturday this month with a fall arts and crafts marketplace.

The event, hosted by the Branford Arts and Cultural Alliance, will feature the work of around 50 local painters, sculptors and other artists, many of whom already have their works on display at the BACA gallery across the street, which opened in June.

The marketplace will be held Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1011 Main St.

While BACA has hosted similar craft showings during its first six years of operation, board member Gerry Casanova said that this year will be the first time the event will be staged under a big-top-style tent set up on the green.

The tent is being made available for the market free of charge by the Friends of the James Blackstone Memorial Library, which plans to use it the following weekend for a book fair, Casanova said.

Its a perfect time of year and a perfect venue, Casanova said.

Plans for an additional performing arts event that Friday night, which Casanova described as a three-ring circus, were scrapped due to the organizers concerns about the ongoing spread of COVID-19 in Connecticut.

Works of art will be on sale both under the tent and at BACAs pop-up gallery on Main Street during the event, which will also feature live music, make-and-take activities, and an opportunity for patrons to meet the artists, who mostly hail from the surrounding area.

Theres a lot of talent in the Shoreline area. Its really amazing, Casanova said.

Frank Carrano, president of BACA, said the group hopes to raise money from the event to support an arts enrichment program for Branford Public Schools students.

Last year, due to the pandemic, Casanova said the nonprofits signature fall event was a public exhibition that invited local artists to paint 80 doors lined up and displayed along Main Street in October. The doors were later sold to benefit an arts scholarship at Branford High School.

While organizers do not have an estimate for attendance at this years marketplace, Casanova said that they hoped it would be similar to last years very well-attended exhibition. The event is free.

For information, visit branfordarts.org.
Venice, FL (34285)

Today

Some clouds and possibly an isolated thunderstorm this afternoon. High 86F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Variable clouds with showers and scattered thunderstorms. Storms more numerous this evening. Low near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
The number of veterans who died by suicide dropped noticeably in 2019, but new data shows vets are still killing themselves at rates alarmingly higher than non-veterans.

The Veterans Affairs Department said Wednesday that 6,261 veterans died by suicide in 2019, a decline of 399 from 2018. That amounted to a 7.2% overall decrease in the veteran suicide mortality rate, when adjusted by age and gender, the VA said.

The drop in deaths by suicide represents the steepest since the Global War on Terror began in late 2001, something the VA called "unprecedented" and a reason for hope. Officials did not suggest what may have caused the decline, saying "more remains to be known and understood" on what works to intervene and prevent suicide deaths.

Read Next: Mandatory COVID Testing for Unvaccinated DoD Civilian Workers to Start This Fall

The chairman and ranking member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, Sens. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) said VA's latest report shows its efforts to prevent suicide deaths and improve mental health "have made a tangible, life-saving impact on our nation's veterans."

"While this is a welcomed step forward, the fact is that one life lost to suicide is one too many, and veterans and their families are relying on VA to provide critical tools and resources now more than ever," Tester and Moran said in a press release.

They pledged to keep pushing the VA to increase its outreach efforts and put programs in place that "will connect more veterans with the care and resources they need to keep from falling through the cracks."

Veteran suicides dramatically increased in 2007 and 2008 and, though there have been some fluctuations and slight year-over-year drops, typically have continued to rise. Between 2005 and 2018, according to the VA's report, veteran suicides increased an average of 48 per year.

The 2019 total is the lowest annual number since 2007, when 6,174 veterans died by suicide.

But despite some progress in 2019, the suicide rate among veterans remains staggering and has grown sharply since 2001.

"Much work remains to be done," the VA said in its report. "As long as veteran suicide numbers are annually in the thousands, there is no sense of mission accomplishment or satisfaction within VA, despite being heartened by unprecedented decreases in veteran suicide the year prior to full COVID-19 onset."

Veterans died by suicide at a rate of 31.6 per 100,000 last year, far higher than the rate of 16.8 recorded for non-veteran adults in the U.S. On average, about 17 veterans killed themselves per day in 2019.

A report from Brown University published in June found that since 9/11, 30,177 active-duty personnel and veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars had taken their own lives -- more than four times as many as were killed in the wars themselves.

The VA said it will continue its 2018 National Strategy for Preventing Veteran Suicide, which calls for a public health approach for reducing suicide deaths that is both community-based and clinically based. VA efforts include providing veterans more access to therapy, building partnerships with rural veterans and their communities on suicide prevention programs, and counseling to help veterans who have access to firearms or poison store them safely.

Although the period the VA studied came before the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, it said in its report that it has not observed a rise in documentation of suicide-related indicators, such as on-campus suicide attempts or deaths, or Veterans Health Administration emergency department visits for suicide attempts.

-- Stephen Losey can be reached at stephen.losey@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StephenLosey.

Related: Since 9/11, Suicide Has Claimed Four Times More Military Lives Than Combat
Airmen and Guardians who are women or racial minorities aren't seeing their careers advance as quickly as their white male counterparts, a new Air Force inspector general report has found.

And the lack of career opportunities for Hispanic, Latino, Asian, Native American or Pacific Islander, and female service members has major implications -- not only for their careers, but for the Air Force and Space Force's leadership as a whole.

Air Force Inspector General Lt. Gen. Sami Said on Thursday released the results of the department's second study on racial disparities in the ranks.

Read Next: Pentagon Chief: Al-Qaida May Seek Comeback in Afghanistan

The first study, released last December, focused on Black airmen's experiences in the service, and found similar career development disparities.

The second study looks at a different group of service members but, taken together, it paints a picture of services that are -- even if it may be unintentional -- treating troops differently based on their gender and ethnicity.

"It basically points out very clearly, I think very convincingly, there are a lot of disparities within the Air Force, in a number of facets of the Air Force experience," Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall told reporters in a conference call. "This includes things like promotions, how people are treated in their careers, how they're treated in assignments, how they're treated under the judicial system."

Hispanic and Latino, Asian American, and Native American officers were promoted to major, lieutenant colonel or colonel below the average rates, the study found. On the enlisted side, Hispanic and Latino service members were promoted below the average rate to all ranks, except E-7, and Asian American enlisted members were promoted more slowly than the overall average to the ranks of E-6 through E-9.

Asian American officers are the least likely group to hold leadership roles in the Air Force, the report found. From 2015 to 2020, 2.7% of colonels in the active-duty Air Force were Asian American, but they made up only 0.7% of wing commanders. Asian American officers also were significantly underrepresented among group and squadron commanders, command chiefs and first sergeants -- a trend also seen among Hispanic, Latino and Pacific Islander officers.

The operations career fields -- particularly the ranks of pilots -- are overwhelmingly white and male in the Air Force. And because the Air Force has tended to choose its leaders from those ranks, it has worsened the racial imbalance in the ranks and led to fewer situations where racial minorities or women can have mentors who relate to their experiences.

Asian American officers were more than 10% more likely to leave the service before reaching 10 years in uniform than their white counterparts.

One in three female airmen or Guardians, and one in four female civilians in the department, reported experiencing sexual harassment in their careers.

Though the report details many examples of how racial disparities exist, the Air Force has not yet delved into what the root causes may be -- something Kendall called a "fundamental thing that we have to get at."

Said said the Air Force will order organizations -- such those responsible for accessions, training, education and military justice -- to do a "root cause analysis" and propose changes to policies that will address those disparities.

-- Stephen Losey can be reached at stephen.losey@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @StephenLosey.

Related: Air Force Orders New Review of Racial Disparities Focused on Asian, Hispanic Communities
A drunken driving accident in Texas involving three National Guard members left one soldier dead, another injured and the third facing a manslaughter charge, according to law enforcement and military officials.

All three Guard members were serving on the federal mission at the southwest U.S. border with Mexico, according to military officials.

Spc. Nashyra S. Whitaker, 23, died at the scene of the single-vehicle accident that occurred at about 2:15 a.m. Sunday in McAllen, Texas, said Lt. Joel Morales, spokesman for the McAllen Police Department. Whitaker was a member of Louisiana National Guard.

Georgia Guard member Bianca Farmer, 24, was driving the vehicle on North 23rd Street when she crashed into a utility pole, he said.

Claude Cecile Berry, the third passenger in the vehicle and also a member of the Georgia Guard, was taken to the hospital where his arm was amputated, according to The Monitor, a McAllen newspaper.

Farmer was charged and arraigned on charges of intoxicated manslaughter, intoxicated assault and driving while intoxicated with bond set at $190,000, Morales said. She was booked into Hidalgo County Detention Center on Sunday and released Wednesday, according to online jail records.

U.S. Northern Command confirmed Farmer and Berry are members of the Georgia Guard. But officials for the Georgia Guard declined to provide additional information about the soldiers.

The Defense Department has authorized 3,000 troops to serve along the southwest border to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection through September 2022. The troops filling the mission are a mix of active-duty service members and National Guard personnel.

"For the safety of service members deployed in support of the southwest border mission, policies have been in place since January 2021 that limit alcohol consumption. These policies are typical of those implemented for service members during deployments," said Eduardo Natividad, spokesman for Joint Task Force North, which oversees the southwest border mission.

On Sunday, following the fatal accident, zero tolerance for violating the alcohol policy went into effect, he said.

Whitaker served with the Louisiana Guard's Company E, 199th Brigade Support Battalion, 769th Brigade Engineer Battalion in Baton Rouge. She joined the Guard in February 2019 as an automated logistical specialist, according to the Louisiana Guard.

She was recently attached to the 2nd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Whitaker's awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon. She is survived by her mother and father.
GULFPORT, Miss.  A Veterans Affairs supply manager in south Mississippi made more than $50,000 stealing and selling medical masks during the coronavirus pandemic, federal prosecutors say.

Court records show Chad Paul Jacob, 54, of Saucier, Mississippi, pleaded guilty Tuesday to theft of government property. Sentencing is set for Dec. 7, and he faces up to 10 years in prison.

Jacob has been assistant chief of supply chain management for the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System, according to a news release from Darren J. LaMarca, who is acting U.S. attorney for south Mississippi, and Jeffrey A. Breen, special agent in charge of a field office for the VA Office of Inspector General.

The release said that from 2009 until late 2020, Jacob stole personal protective equipment, electronics and medical equipment from the VA and resold it local pawn shops and on his personal eBay account. The release said that in addition to making more than $50,000 selling stolen N95 masks, Jacob made more than $9,000 selling stolen iPads and iPhones.

Since the onset of the pandemic, the VA Office of Inspector General has aggressively investigated the increasing and evolving threat posed by COVID-19-related fraud and criminal activity," Breen said in the release. Todays guilty plea demonstrates our ongoing work to stop those who take advantage of public health emergencies to perpetrate such frauds."
Editor's Note: After this article was published the Marine Corps released the name of the recruit who died. He was Pvt. Anthony Munoz of Lawrence, Mass.

The body of a Marine recruit was found early Tuesday morning at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, according to service and local officials.

The body was found around 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, apparently having fallen from a balcony, Beaufort County Coroner David Ott told Military.com. The recruit had been with the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion, Recruit Training Regiment.

It is the second recruit death at Parris Island in three months. Another aspiring Marine died at the beginning of June while going through the culminating event of recruit training, known as the "Crucible."

Read Next: Biden Orders 18 Trump Appointees Off Service Academy Boards

The death from a fall earlier this week echoed a 2016 scandal that made national headlines, when 20-year-old Raheel Siddiqui died after apparently jumping from the third-floor stairwell of a barracks building just days after arriving at Parris Island. Siddiqui's death led to an investigation that uncovered hazing by drill instructors that resulted in firings and prosecutions. The family has steadfastly disputed the classification of Siddiqui's death as a suicide.

While deaths at recruit training facilities are rare, hazing in the military continues to be an issue, according to an annual report that Military.com obtained via a public-records request earlier this year. The data in the report shows that almost 90% of hazing claims made across the military in fiscal 2018 occurred in the Marine Corps. That year, 256 of the 291 total hazing complaints were made against Marines; of those, almost 90% were substantiated.

The name and other biographical details of the recruit who died Tuesday have not been released by the Marine Corps. Officials said they were still notifying the recruit's next of kin.

A spokesman for the branch said that the incident is under investigation by the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

-- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @ktoropin.

Related: Marine Recruit Dies During 'Crucible' Event at Boot Camp
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The Grand County Sheriffs Office announced on its Facebook page that an anonymous business contractor has offered a $10,000 reward for inform
The Banks Board Bureau ((BBB), an autonomous body of the Indian government, has recommended Atul Kumar Goel for the position of managing director (MD) and chief executive officer (CEO) of Punjab National Bank (PNB). Ajay Kumar Srivastava is the candidate on the reserve list for these posts, BBB says.

In a release, BBB says, "Banks Board Bureau interfaced with 11 candidates on 8 September 2021 for the forthcoming position of MD & CEO of Punjab National Bank. Keeping in view their performance in the interface, their overall experience and the extant parameters, the Bureau recommends Atul Kumar Goel for the post and Ajay Kumar Srivastava as reserve candidate."

Mr Goel is MD, CEO and executive director of UCO Bank. A member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), he is also on the boards of Star Union Daichi Life Insurance Co Ltd, The New India Assurance Co Ltd and Union Trustee Co Pvt Ltd.

Earlier, Mr Goel had worked at Allahabad Bank as chief finance officer (CFO), compliance officer and head for investor relations.

Ajay Kumar Srivastava is the executive director of Indian Overseas Bank.

Last month, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved a term extension till 31 January 2022 to Ch SS Mallikarjuna Rao, the incumbent MD & CEO of PNB who was due to retire 18 September 2021.

Before joining PNB in 2019, he was MD & CEO of Allahabad Bank for about one year.

Established in 1894, Punjab National Bank is the second-largest public-sector bank (PSB) in the country. After the amalgamation of Oriental Bank of Commerce and United Bank of India, PNB has a network of over 10,760 branches, 1,03,000 employees and a global business of around Rs18.46 lakh crore.
We had mentioned in previous weeks closing report that Nifty, Sensex were headed higher. The major indices rallied this week but ended with minor gains. The trend of the major indices in the week is given in the table:

On Monday, the indices opened higher and closed with minor gains. On the NSE, there were 978 advances, 985 declines and 90 unchanged.

Reliance Industries subsidiary Reliance Strategic Business Ventures acquired 2.28 crore equity shares in Strand Life Sciences for Rs 393 crore.

ICICI Lombard received the final approval from the insurance regulator IRDAI for the proposed scheme of arrangement with Bharti AXA General Insurance Company.

Ashoka Buildcon received a letter of award from Adani Road Transport for an EPC contract for six laning of the NH-19 corridor in West Bengal for a price of Rs 1,567.45 crore.

Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited awarded a project to Engineers India for a value of Rs 1,039 crore.

On Tuesday, the indices opened higher but were volatile and ended flat. On the NSE, there were 685 advances, 1,301 declines and 87 unchanged.

LIC Housing Finance and India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) announced a strategic partnership for providing home loan products to over 4.5 crore customers of IPPB.

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories launched Mintop  a Minoxidil topical solution USP 2% and 5% for the treatment of female pattern hair loss.

JSPL sales volume in August 2021 increased 6% month-on-month and 4% year-on-year (YoY) to 7.1 lakh tonnes.

JSW Steel reported 5% jump in crude steel production in August 2021 at 13.77 lakh tonnes.

On Wednesday, the indices were volatile and ended flat. On the NSE, there were 1,062 advances, 918 declines and 1 unchanged.

Maruti Suzukis production numbers for August 2021 showed decline of 7.9% at 1.14 lakh units against 1.24 lakh units in the same period last year.

Adani Power Maharashtra was declared as successful bidder for commercial mining of Gondkhari coal block in Maharashtra.

In its first case it has heard and dealt with under the IT Act 2000, the Rajasthan government imposed a fine of Rs 27 lakh on Vodafone Idea Ltd on a data leak matter.

Life Insurance Corporation of India sold more than 2.07 lakh equity shares of ICRA via open market transaction, reducing shareholding to 5.81% from 7.96%.

On Thursday, the indices opened lower but ended flat. On the NSE, there were 1,089 advances, 901 declines and 91 unchanged.

Adani Green listed its maiden USD 750 million green bonds with 3-year maturity at a competitive coupon of 4.375%. The bonds were rated Ba3 (stable) by Moodys and have garnered huge investor interest across the globe.

The Reserve Bank of India lifted Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) restrictions on UCO Bank.

Reliance Infras Arbitral award was upheld in favour of the company by the Supreme Court, making DMRC liable to pay Rs 2,800 crore plus interest to the firm.

Greaves Cotton announced its entry into the multi-brand electric vehicle retail segment.

The equity markets will remain closed on Friday on account of Ganesh Chaturthi.
Onions, a staple in most Indian households, are likely to make consumers cry again, with erratic monsoon leading to an eventual delay in harvest. Delay in arrival of the Kharif crop and shorter shelf life of the buffer stock because of Cyclone Tauktae are likely to fuel a rise in prices, says a research note.

In a report, ratings agency CRISIL says, The trend of the past two years shows untimely rains in August-September hampered onion harvest, and prices doubled compared with 2018 when conditions were normal. CRISIL Research forecasts an increase of more than 100% in onion prices this year. Prices are expected to cross Rs30 per kg for Kharif 2021 because of the challenges faced in transplanting the crop in Maharashtra, though this will be slightly lower on year to 1% to 5%, on a high base of Kharif 2020.

Additionally, it says that natural calamities (Cyclone Tauktae) have increased moisture content in the stored rabi crop, thereby shortening its shelf life. This is expected to prepone the arrival of stored rabi crops before the lean season, adding to supply woes.

On average, India consumes an estimated 13 lakh tonnes of onion every month. The crop is grown in three seasons: Kharif, late kharif and rabi to meet this demand. This makes onions available for most of the year.

Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are major Kharif onion-producing states, contributing over 75% of total Kharif onion production. Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are major Kharif onion-producing states, contributing over 75% of total Kharif onion production.

The bulbs supply and price dynamics are dominated mainly by climatic conditions, especially the southwest monsoon. While rabi onion contributes to 70% of the total onion production, the Kharif onion plays a vital role in maintaining supply during the lean period of September-November, a primary festive season for India.

According to CRISIL, during the corresponding festive season last year, onion prices had doubled compared with the normal year of 2018  mainly due to supply disruption caused by the heavy and erratic monsoon that damaged the Kharif crop in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra.

This year, the southwest monsoon kicked in on 3rd June, signalling a good start to the Kharif season, and farmers have preferred crops such as onion and chilli over highly perishable ones such as tomato. July witnessed a prolonged monsoon break with rainfall at a 2% deficit of the long period average (LPA) pan-India. To add to it, August, the critical month for transplantation, did not see any recovery in rainfall. The deficit stood at a cumulative 9% as of 30 August 2021.

CRISIL says, Fluctuating monsoon is expected to pose challenges in transplanting the crop in Maharashtra, which accounts for 35% of the total Kharif onion produced in the country. With Nashik, which contributes 37% of the Kharif onion produced in Maharashtra, facing a rainfall deficit of 33% as of 30th August, followed by Pune, which contributes 13% of the Kharif onion produced in Maharashtra and was facing a rainfall deficit of 65% as of end-August, many farmers, who had set up nurseries in anticipation of good returns have been unable to transplant owing to the erratic monsoon. This is likely to delay the process and may result in late arrival of the onion crop, thus widening the supply-demand gap during the lean months of September to November.

Karnataka contributes 30% of the total Kharif onion produced in India. North Karnataka accounts for the bulk of the total Kharif onion production in the state, contributing about 70%.

Onion transplantation in a few of the onion-growing districts of the state has been delayed due to poor monsoon. In contrast, in Chitradurga, as per CRISILs on-ground information, farmers have opted for the direct-seeded crop after the district received surplus rainfall at +43% of normal as on 30th August 30. With the monsoon spell reactivating in major districts such as Bagalkot, Gadag and Davengere, Karnataka is expected to become the saviour.

In Andhra Pradesh, as per CRISILs on-ground reports, almost 70% sowing of onion has been completed due to 17% higher rains from 1st June to 25 August 2021. However, August saw deficit rainfall, with Kurnool, which accounts for 86% of the total onion produced in the state, having a deficit of around 45%. This, the agency says, is expected to impact the timely transplantation of the crop.

Thus, the vagaries of monsoon are expected to delay arrivals of Kharif onion in the market by two-three weeks to the end of October or beginning of November. Prices are likely to be elevated until then, CRISIL added.

The government has taken measures to curb the rise in onion prices. A buffer stock of 2 lakh metric tonnes (MT) has been set for onion for fiscal 2022. Almost 90% of the planned buffer stock for onion has been procured, with the highest contribution from Maharashtra (about 0.15 million MT). Additionally, the government has also advised an increase in Kharif onion acreage in the traditionally non-onion-growing states of Rajasthan, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh from 41,081 ha to 51,000 ha.
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A CSU Monterey Bay spokesperson says this photo used by the university's police department on an Instagram post reminding people to not drive while impaired is an impromptu photo taken of an unnamed officer holding a pen while writing up an arrest. Commenters on the post interpreted the way the hand was posed as a white power gesture, which the university contends is not the case.
We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on!
Lansdale, PA (19446)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. High 88F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 66F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
Murgia Park is located off Manatawny Street near the intersection with Sell Road in West Pottsgrove. The pedestrian bridge over Goose Run completed with the help of a mini-grant can be seen in the background.
September 09, 2021

Afghanistan - State Department Sanctimoniously Laments About 'Lack Of Female Leaders'

The Hill is channeling State Department 'concerns':

State Department voices concerns over all-male Taliban government

The State Department on Tuesday expressed concerns over the makeup of the new interim Afghan government announced by the Taliban, including the lack of female leaders and the past actions of some of those appointed to top posts. A State Department spokesperson said in a statement shared with The Hill that although the Taliban has presented this as a caretaker cabinet, the U.S. will judge the Taliban by its actions, not words. We have made clear our expectation that the Afghan people deserve an inclusive government, the spokesperson added. The statement went on to note that the list of names announced by the Taliban earlier Tuesday consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women.

Well, the 'caretaker' government surely reflects the wishlist of the Pakistani spy service ISI. Its boss had flown to Kabul to get it implemented as soon as possible.

Sure, the U.S. does not like that. But a look at the governments of certain U.S. 'allies' lets me wonder how genuine the 'concern' about a 'lack of female members' really is.



King Salman presides over a cabinet meeting in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. - Arab News

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Amir Of Qatar Reshuffles Cabinet - Asian Telegraph

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UAE Cabinet approves 2020 Federal Budget - Emirates 24/7

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September 09, 2021

Open Thread 2021-69

News & views ...

Posted by b on September 9, 2021 at 18:04 UTC | Permalink

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Well we never expected to hear anyone complain about this!

A woman in the UK has found herself in hot water after her neighbours complained to the police about her kids chalk drawings on the footpath...

"How do you feel about children chalking on the pavement? Nothing offensive." she asked on the Family Lockdown Tips & Ideas Facebook page.

"My children are 6, 9, and 13, plus their friends. Hopscotch, tracks for scooters, drawing around themselves and it completely washed away a few days later."

"Had complaints made about it to housing and police. I thought kids playing outside was better than sat in, in front of screens.'

She wasn't alone though, as you'd expect many people supported the mum and told the complainers to get a grip!

Gemma Collins wrote: 'Shame on you for letting your kids enjoy themselves out in the fresh air with a bit of innocent chalking. Seriously though, I actually can't believe somebody complained about this. Don't let some idiot spoil your fun.'

"Some people need to get a grip, children chalking soon washes away." pointed out one person.

"Kids can't do anything anymore. Can't believe the police have been involved over a natural material." added a second.

A third agreed, saying "as long as its not offensive I don't see the problem as the rain washes it away."

Do you see any problem with this at all!?
Sayre, PA (18840)

Today

Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 77F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Cloudy with rain ending overnight. Low 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
OCKLAWAHA [mdash]Elizabeth Lynn Keigans, 55, of Ocklawaha, formerly of Moultrie, died Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at her home. Born on December 20, 1965, in Moultrie, she was the daughter of the late Joe Ellis Keigans, Sr. and Ruby Lynette Conger Keigans. She is survived by her daughter, Cara
Moultrie, GA (31768)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Showers this evening then scattered thunderstorms developing overnight. Low near 70F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
A longtime reader of this column communicated to me on Friday the presidents response to a question about the Texas law having to do with abortion.

I respect those who believe life begins at the moment of conception. I respect that but don't agree, she quoted the president in an email.

My friend then offered the following, This is a dramatic shift in what he has said previously, which is that he accepts the Catholic Church's teachings that life begins at the moment of conception.

Well, it appears there was a shift in the presidents position.

However, maybe there is gray area in the Catholic Churchs doctrine that I didnt know about. Im not Catholic, so I emailed Bishop Michael Sis, Diocese of San Angelo, and asked for clarification. This was the question -- What do you tell Catholics across the diocese about the idea of being Catholic but not agreeing with life beginning at the moment of conception?

The bishop responded:

Hello Stewart,

What I say is that they need to go back and study what they learned in science class.

It is simple, basic science that life begins at conception.

Bishop Michael Sis

Science? Arent we expected to listen to the science when it comes to COVID? Apparently, some Texans who oppose the new law dont believe in science when a heartbeat is involved. As another friend told me, (Pro-choice people) dont want to have an honest conversation  science be damned.

Could it be true that the president had no choice but to betray his faith and go down a political road? That appears to be the case. The left owns this president. They own a party that showed pro-life Democrats the door, not long after pro-life Democrats guaranteed Obamacare would become the law of the land.

Democrats and those on the far left determined that their party didnt have room for anyone who believes faith is a factor in the abortion debate. It doesnt matter whether one is Catholic or Protestant.

Roy Smith, pastor of True-Lite Fellowship, said believing that life begins at conception isnt exclusive to the Catholic Church. He offered the following response to the question, Can one be Christian but not agree with life beginning at conception?

One can be Christian and conclude in their thinking that life does not start at conception, but they would be WRONG, utterly and absolutely WRONG! Smith wrote. For according to the Bible, we are carefully knitted, fearfully and wonderfully made (formed) from conception!

Smith, added, Also, as a Black person, I am so worn out with so-called Civil Rights groups allowing the abortion advocates to equate their sin with the color of my skin as though they are one and the same! Abortion to these groups is an easy cover up of their non-thought-out sexual excursions.

Another question I had for religious leaders this week was if the Supreme Court decision was a shot in the arm for some in the church who act defeated on the social issues like abortion.

Yes, this recent ruling by the Supreme Court should cause a massive engagement of Christiandom to kindle anew our Fight on behalf of the life of the unborn, Smith wrote. We must begin to raise our voices in much noise against this generations genocide of the unborn life! To not do so is to mock our Lord and make the bulls eye on the unborn bigger on the target of our Lords grandest creation, Humanity! In this sin, the judgement of God will not sleep forever of Americas greatest sin, Abortion!

Thats powerful stuff.

In closing, some who read my column this past weekend and said I took joy in forcing those who are raped or are victims of incest to deliver their babies. That couldnt be further from the truth. One thing I did note was that those who support abortion, even our president, have no intention of recognizing the science and that there is a life involved, so they point to the extremes as being normal. They call for the exception being the rule. They deceive with the hope that a pro-life stance comes across as reckless and anti-woman.

Heres what I say to my pro-choice friends: I can certainly agree that something should be done in the case of rape, incest and health of the mother, if you would acknowledge all other abortions are wrong.

That is a compromise they dont want. They will go against what they know, just like the president went against Catholic doctrine. He sided with politics rather than the teachings of his church. He went against life, which is what this fight is about in the first place.
New Swiss, French and UK Leaders for PRS IN VIVO

Consumer and shopper insights agency PRS IN VIVO has appointed Nicole Duckworth as Managing Director in the UK and Clement Dargent as Managing Director in France, while promoting Olivier Bardin to the position of Head of Switzerland, VP Client Development.



Owned by BVA Group, PRS IN VIVO applies behavioral science to understand shopping behaviour and influence consumer choices. Duckworth joins with more than 25 years' MR industry experience, the last thirteen spent at Kantar, where she served as Chief Operating Officer in the UK. Earlier she held insight and brand management positions at Heinz and Diageo, having begun her career at Retail Marketing In Store Services.



Dargent, who has nearly twenty years of client and agency experience, most recently served as Head of Marketing and Brand Insights at music streaming app Deezer. Before this he spent thirteen years at Ipsos, in both Paris and New York City, latterly serving as Head of Department, managing and developing a portfolio of CPG and OTC clients, having begun his career at Moet Hennessy. Bardin joined PRS IN VIVO in Geneva twelve years ago and most recently served as Research Director / Director, Client Development. He previously worked in London as a Consultant for TNS, SRE for Harris Interactive, and an Account Manager at GMI.



Commenting on the news, CEO Karen Gombault said: 'Nicole and Clement are both seasoned professionals, with a passion for clients, innovation, challenging the status quo, and spearheading change. Their arrival strengthens our team, our culture and our ability to drive future growth, joining Olivier's dedication to helping our clients grow'.



Web site: www.prs-invivo-group.com .




Timothy Joel Murr, Passed away on August 23rd, 2021 at the age of 67. Funeral services will be at Keefeton Free Will Baptist Church on Saturday, September 18th, 2021 at 2pm.
CLAY COUNTY  As the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11 approaches and the unrest in Afghanistan continues to dominate airwaves after the final evacuation of Afghanistan by U.S. troops, two Northland veterans are looking back on their experiences in the embattled country.

Dewayne Knott

Knott, a Smithville resident, American Legion post leader and veteran, recalls his time spent time in Afghanistan on behalf of the state department and Land OLakes in 2006. He was assigned to handle an environmental study to determine if a dairy pasteurization plant would be viable.

I flew into Kabul and there was unrest that day as brakes went out on a U.S. Army transport truck that hit some Afghan citizens, he said. There were people who burned the TV and radio stations. It was chaos. I called the compound I was supposed to stay at and was told to head back to the airport. The flights were filled with embassy people. The airport had a runway and a shack.

After a couple failed attempts and a chance to meet the Afghan who was supposed to be his guide, Knott was able to get away before the Afghan military came back to the airport.

We ended up in heading to the compound coming in hot. We zoomed in and that was my first day.

Knott eventually headed up north to speak with farmers.

While the farmers may have had two to three cows, he said, they still had extra milk. The plan was to create a cooperative. The various tribes that didnt get along were presented with the idea.

Eventually, Russians, Germans, Mongolians and U.S. staff were working together on planning and engineering.

We signed the agreement in the Russian compound, Knott said. We determined to pasteurize the fruit juices too to help kids and moms.

The biggest land evaluation came in the city of Kunduz.

Afghanistans requirements are not to disturb any holy places, he said. There is a mountain, but the plant would have been in visible site, but not in jeopardy. Then we had a public meeting with various tribal leaders who brought their machine guns and rocket launchers. However, they liked the ideas of the co-op.

The pasteurization factory was built, but four months later, the Taliban blew it up, Knott said.

While the plant didnt last, Knotts memories of the Afghan people are still strong.

They are kind, generous and looking for the same things we look for, he said. I was able to get my translator and his family out of Afghanistan and to England.

Knott, who spent 38 years in the Air Force, has spent time in Iraq and Saudi Arabia as well.

It saddens me about the current events, he said. My dad used to say to me that everyone puts their pants on one leg at a time. It took me time to realize that most people want a job, a house and a chance to grow old.

Will Akin

Between 2009 and 2012, Clay County Sheriff and Army veteran Will Akin worked as a contractor in Afghanistan, serving as a police advisor. He mentored local police and aided Afghan investigators in family responses and human rights violations. He also worked as a security transport lead.

While there, he felt concussive IED explosions.

I also worked with female police officers, he said. I enjoyed my experiences with these different individuals. I really found myself emerged in the Afghan culture.

As the current situation unfolds and the Taliban takes over Afghanistan, Akin thinks about the people he worked with, such as interpreters, who remain in the country. He worries about their lives.

There are so many lessons we have, Akin said. The U.S. is still the best country in the world and we still have such a capability to help others. The veterans and contractors who went to Afghanistan did their jobs.

Akin said he learned many lessons during his time there, including some areas in the country dont recognize Kabul as the central location of government. Akin said he also learned about racism in the area.

Its really different because facial features determined racism, he explained of the area. Those who live north have more Mongolian looks and those in the south are more Arabic. Its really weird that the brow and eyes cause such problems.

Watching the exit, Akin said he believes America should have left 10 years ago.

We should have learned the lessons on how to exit after what we did in Vietnam, he said.

Akin stays in contact with three interpreters, who are now here in the United States.

I offer my help to them if they need it, he said. For many of us who spent time in Afghanistan, we feel helpless. I want to help the people who helped us.
Hurricane Larry is more than 1,000 miles away from the South Carolina coast, but the tropical system is still expected to bring dangerous rip currents to the coast through Friday.

The National Weather Service in Wilmington on Thursday issued a high rip current risk for the entire East Coast of the United States as Larry, currently a Category 2 storm, continues its path up through the north Atlantic. Similar risks are expected for Friday, the NWS said.

Dave Loewenthal, weather forecaster at the NWS in Wilmington, said that large swells are expected at the beach and a high rip current risk. Loewenthal added that the dangers Larry is currently presenting to the coast is a testament to the power of the tropical system.

Its a reasonably strong hurricane, Loewenthal said. The swells that are generated will go a long way. In every direction those swells are going out.

Loewenthal said he expects double red flags to be flown, warning swimmers to not go in the water.

That means unless youre a surfer, they recommend you dont go in the water at all, Loewenthal said. Ive seen some people wading out in waist deep and thats even dangerous, especially if youre not a good swimmer.

As the hazardous beach conditions are expected to last until Friday, beachgoers are urged to pay close attention to the warning flags on the beach.

Chief Brian Marshall, beach supervisor for the Myrtle Beach Fire Department, said there is a single red flag warning Thursday in Myrtle Beach.

The city of North Myrtle Beach is starting out with a yellow flag Thursday morning as there are no signs of rip currents yet, said Pat Dowling, the city's spokesperson. However, Dowling said the city reserves the option to go to red should conditions build into what the NWS has forecasted for the day.

A single red flag means there are dangerous conditions and people shouldnt go in the water beyond knee deep. A green flag means its safe to swim, yellow means to use caution and a double red flag means no swimming is allowed at all.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 673, which aims to help students find common ground when dealing with bullies rather than having them miss school.

SB 673 aims to help victims of bullying that is based on religion, race, ethnicity, or any other category that is identified in the Illinois Human Rights Act. Instead of suspending students for bullying, school counselors and trained mediators would help guide the bully and the victim to find common ground.

Civil rights attorney and bill author Maaria Mozaffar said the legislation finally gives students a chance to address their bullies in a non-confrontational manner.

Think about all the students that have gone through bullying and how it scarred them because they did not know how to address it, Mozaffar said. This legislation gives those students a chance to deal with their problems.

Mozaffar discussed how much bullying comes from students lacking understanding and dealing with others who have different cultural backgrounds, saying this bill helps students understand those differences.

This really is a pathway for students to better understand the different cultures, people and communities around them, and be reminded of basic decent moral conduct, Mozaffar said.

The legislation is the first of its kind in the United States, but Mozaffar said that does not mean Illinois work is done.

Diversity is humanitys greatest asset, Mozaffar said. I will continue to push for more inclusive conversations and find ways to push back against policies not equipped to embrace these diversities.

The law goes into effect immediately.
For the week ending Sept. 2, more than a quarter of weekly reported COVID-19 cases were among children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Weekly cases in children surpassed 250,000 for the first time since the start of the pandemic, according to most recent data.

Nearly 2,400 children were hospitalized nationwide with COVID-19 in the seven days ending on Tuesday, the most during the pandemic, according to the Washington Post.

Half of children aged 12 to 15 have received at least one vaccine dose, according to the CDC, the number is 58% for 16- and 17-year-olds. Vaccines are not yet authorized for children under 12.

Experts fear the situation could worsen, but that is not inevitable, Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said.

Weve got to get the school system masked, in addition to surrounding the children with vaccinated people, he told CNN on Tuesday. Thats the solution.

Experts are worried about the outlook of the school year as many places fight mask mandates and with kids under 12 remaining unable to get vaccinated. Many schools started their new school years in August and many districts, especially those without mask measures, saw surges in cases.

Unless there is strong action to work against the virus, those surges could be seen in places returning to schools after the Labor Day weekend, CNN reported.

According to new data from Tuesday, children now makeup 26.8% of the weekly COVID-19 cases. From Aug. 19 to Sept. 2, there was a 10% increase in the total COVID-19 cases in children since the start of the pandemic, according to the AAP.

Illinois has seen COVID-19 numbers in children rise every week since late June, as cases in children aged 5 to 11 have risen from 108 to 3,280 for the week ending Aug. 28. That's an increase of more than 30 times. Numbers have similarly increased in those aged 12 to 17 (going from 165 for the week ending June 26 to 3,236) and in those aged 18 to 22 (136 to 5,279).

There have been 81 outbreaks of COVID-19 at schools in the last 30 days, according to the IDPH, although most of those incidents involved either less than five or five to 10 students. Just eight have involved more than 10, and five have seen more than 16 infected.

There have been five outbreaks at Madison County schools (all less than five students) and Madison County has seen cases in children aged 5 to 11 rise from eight in the week ending June 19 to 104 in the week ending Aug. 28. Cases in children aged 12 to 17 rose from 7 in mid-June to 90 in late August.

Similarly, Morgan County went from zero cases in the week ending July 3 to 15 cases in the week ending Aug. 21 in children aged 5 to 11. There have been no documented outbreaks at schools in Morgan County and cases in those 12 to 17 have remained low, just nine incidents in the week ending Aug. 28.

From June to mid-August, hospitalization for children and teenagers increased nearly five times, remaining just under Januarys peak, a study found.

Vaccination has made a difference. During the summer surge, the hospitalization rate was 10 times as high in unvaccinated youths as in those who were vaccinated, research shows. Pediatric hospital admissions were nearly four times as high in states with the lowest vaccination rates as in those with higher vaccinated populations.

Since July, the rate of new coronavirus cases has increased for those 17 or younger, as have emergency room visits and hospital admissions related to COVID, coinciding with the delta variants prominence.

COVID-related emergency room visits and hospital admissions were also three times higher in states with the lowest vaccine coverage compared with states with high vaccine rates, according to the New York Times. Vaccines are therefore important in protecting children. Other important factors are mask usage and mandates and social distancing measures, per a CDC study.

Figures for cases in children reached 16.2 cases per 100,000 children aged 4 or under in August, with 28.5 cases per 100,000 children aged 5 to 11 and 32.7 cases per 100,000 aged 12 to 17.

Weekly rates have risen since July. During the week ending on Aug. 14, there were 1.4 COVID-related hospitalizations for every 100,000 children, compared with 0.3 in late June and early July, according to the Times. Hospitalizations have increased most sharply in those 4 or younger, as there were 1.9 hospitalizations per 100,000 children in that age group in the week ending Aug. 14, nearly 10 times as high as late June.

Among the children and adolescents hospitalized from June 20 to July 31, 23.2 percent were admitted to the I.C.U., 9.8 percent required mechanical ventilation and 1.8 percent died, according to the Times. Those figures were roughly the same as those for children who were hospitalized before the Delta variant became widespread.
Kelly Sikkema | Unsplash

The upcoming flu season has the potential to be "more severe than average."

Information from studies released by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health says children could be hit particularly hard. Overall it could overwhelm hospitals even more as they try to accommodate patients battling COVID-19.
Morgan County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Howard R. Bryant, 73, of 1915 Concord Road, Chapin, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 11:46 p.m. Tuesday on charges of battery and resisting a peace officer.

 Bryan A. Krieg, 61,of 2299 Saint Pauls Church Road, Arenzville, was booked into the Morgan County jail at 5:19 a.m. Wednesday on a charge of driving under the influence.

Jacksonville Police

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Jonah D. Smith, 34, of 255 King Court was booked into the Morgan County jail at 11:58 a.m. Tuesday on charges of criminal trespass to residence, resisting a peace officer and criminal damage to property.

 Christopher D. Mead, 48, homeless, was arrested at 4:25 a.m. Wednesday on a charge of possession of methamphetamine after being stopped at King and Oak streets.

ACCIDENTS

 Pedro Gomez, 24, of 235 W. Chambers St. was arrested at 10:33 a.m. Wednesday on charges of reckless driving, having no valid drivers license and operating an uninsured vehicle after the car he was driving went off the road in the 1200 block of South Main Street and hit an occupied parked car.

 Jamie D. Howland, 23, of Barry was cited on charges of driving while license is suspended and failing to stop at sidewalk or emerging from an alley or driveway after the car he was driving and one being driven by Judy J. Morrison, 64, of Jacksonville collided at 9:54 a.m. Wednesday at Chambers Street and Brooklyn Avenue.

THEFTS, BURGLARIES

 Two people stole several items from Buchheit at 2200 W. Morton Ave., according to a report filed at 11:59 a.m. Wednesday.



Jersey County

Sheriff

ARRESTS, CITATIONS

 Jeremy W.L. Jones, 23, of Jerseyville was arrested Sept. 1 on two counts of domestic battery and possession of a hypodermic syringe or needle.

 David A. Pace, 56, of Otterville was arrested Sept. 1 on a theft charge. He is accused of taking a catalytic converter from a car.

 Jaylen Kewuan Gunn, 25, address unavailable, was arrested Aug. 30 on a charge of obtaining a substance by fraud. He is accused of using a forged prescription pad to obtain codeine.

 Katherine E. Alexander, 42, of Otterville was arrested Aug. 31 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Judith W. Brannan, 47, of Jerseyville was arrested Sept. 2 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Terry L. Jackson, 52, of Jerseyville was arrested Sept. 2 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Dennis R. Perkinson, 53, of Jerseyville was arrested Aug. 31 on a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

 Devin P. Dixon, 22, of OFallon, Missouri, was arrested Aug. 31 on charges of aggravated fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer and obstructing a peace officer.

Compiled by David C.L. Bauer, Scott Cousins and Samantha McDaniel-Ogletree
ST. JOHN, Ind. (AP)  Police officers swarmed a northwestern Indiana high school Wednesday on a report of an active shooter that authorities said turned out to be a false alarm.

No shots were fired and no gun was found after a room-by-room search of Lake Central High School, which was on lockdown for most of the day, St. John Police Chief Steve Flores said during a news conference.

Flores said a male student called 911 about 10 a.m. after hearing what he described as a bullet being chambered into a gun in a restroom, prompting numerous police departments to rush toward the school in the suburban town of St. John, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) southeast of downtown Chicago.

That student and another who was in the restroom were questioned and released from custody, Flores said. Surveillance video helped identify a third student who had just left the restroom and he was shocked when questioned by investigators.

He had no clue what was going on, Flores said. When we spoke to him, hes like: No, this is what I did. Im not sure what I would have done to make that noise.

Hundreds of parents rushed to the school of about 3,200 students as word spread about the lockdown but students werent released until mid-afternoon.

Flores didnt fault the student for calling 911 although he said he would look into why emergency dispatchers broadcast to officers that it was an active shooting.

Id rather be safe than sorry, Flores said of the students call. I wish it would have been dispatched a little bit different because we were all going here thinking that people were getting shot and that wasnt the case.
Today

Produce and Bakery Giveaway: 9 a.m.-noon, Jacksonville Food Center, 316 E. State St. Free | For Morgan County residents.

Back 2 Business Grant Workshop: 10 a.m.-noon, Jacksonville Area Chamber of Commerce, 155 W Morton Ave. | Get assistance with Back 2 Business grant application. Bring documents to be scanned and complete application and have questions answered. For more information, call 217-245-2174.

Free Noon Meal: 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. | Meals in to-go containers and can be picked up at side door.

Walking for Wellness: 12:30-3 p.m., First Christian Church, 2106 S. Main St. Free | Indoor walking program offered year-round Monday-Thursday. For more information, call 217-243-6445.

Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen: 3:30-4 p.m., Spirit of Faith Soup Kitchen, 105 E. Dunlap St. Free | Serving meals to go for anyone in need.

Illinois Products Farmers Market: 4-7 p.m., Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 E. Sangamon Ave., Springfield. Prices vary. | Weekly through Oct. 14.

County Line Dance Club Class: 6:30 p.m., VFW Post 1379, 903 E. Morton Ave., $3.

ASL Sign Language Class: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jacksonville Community Center for the Deaf, 907 W. Superior Ave. Free | For ages 13 and older. Eleven weeks. Call to register 217-245-0429. For more information, email jccdpresident@jccd.org.



Friday

Produce and Bakery Giveaway: 9 a.m.-noon, Jacksonville Food Center, 316 E. State St. Free | For Morgan County residents.

Gregory Farm Bicentennial Celebration: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Gregory Farm, 6 NW 850 Ave., White Hall. Free | Activities include Seven Generations Museum and tours of Carnot Barn and 1820s cabin. For more information, contact Laura Dukett 217-341-5084 or Ldukett@gmail.com. Event continues Saturday and Sunday.

Free Noon Meal: 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. | Meals in to-go containers and can be picked up at side door.

Produce and Bakery Giveaway: 12:30-1 p.m., The Salvation Army, 331 W. Douglas Ave. Free.

Herb Barlow Memorial: 4 p.m., Jacksonville Speedway, 110 N. Westgate Ave. | Featuring MOWA Sprint Cars, POWRi Midgets, POWRi Micro Sprints, and Street Stocks. For more information, go to jacksonvillespeedway.com.

JHS Homecoming: 4 p.m., Jacksonville High School, 1211 N. Diamond St. | Celebration begins with parade at 4 p.m. at Duncan Park. Homecoming game follows at 7 p.m. The JHS Alumni Association hosts tent opening at 6 p.m. Parade entry registration forms available at jhs.jsd117.org.



To submit items to the calendar, go to myjournalcourier.com and select calendar, or email jjcsocial@myjournalcourier.com. Items must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance.
I come from a family of fighting men.

My cousin Adolph was a paratrooper who landed at Normandy on D-Day, and the parachute he used  stained with blood and dirt  was turned into my cousin Helens wedding dress. My father spent two years in Thule Greenland, at a godforsaken outpost at the North Pole during (no pun intended) the Cold War.

My uncle Louie was a Marine, stationed in Beirut during one of the early crises in the 1950s, and my cousins Alex and Anthony served honorably in Vietnam. Last but not least, my brother Michael was stationed in Iraq during the prosecution of Saddam Hussein as a civilian employee of the Department of Defense.

France. Greenland. Beirut. Vietnam. Iraq. Postcards from the front lines, and a part of my DNA. There is nothing more honorable than service to this country that has given so much, and asked for so little from the majority. But America has demanded that last full measure from the men and women, but especially the men, who have served in combat positions, and we only stop to consider the debt when tragedy occurs.

Thirteen U.S. service members were killed by terrorist bombs in Kabul. They were not in active combat. They were doing something that adds poignancy to their mission: Helping civilians escape the hellhole in Afghanistan created by the men in suits.

President Joe Biden is responsible for this, as was Donald Trump before him, and Barack Obama and George W. Bush, all the way back to the presidents and senators who thought it was a great idea to arm terrorists so we could get back at the Soviets.

But to dwell on this is to ignore the nature of the sacrifice those 10 Marines, two soldiers and a Navy corpsman made. They were in the process of evacuating desperate civilians, U.S. allies and their families, women and babies just born, from a country that had fallen into immediate chaos and imminent tyranny. They were trying to save those people with the power of their U.S. imprimatur, their courage, their intelligence, their ingenuity and, to some extent, their weapons.

Their mission was not to capture a hill or fortify a city. It was to be the separate links in a human chain, person by person, life by life, breath by labored breath, leading toward the open door of infinite possibility: Freedom.

The fact that they were killed, murdered, while trying to save lives makes their loss exponentially worse. The Bible says, Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Take it even further: No greater love hath a man that he lay down his life for strangers.

The picture of a Marine sitting down and cradling a newborn Afghani child went viral, and the reason it did is because it spoke to something deep within all of us that lies dormant until tragedy occurs: The understanding that in the dark and dire moments, the touch of a human being is the greatest weapon against despair and the strongest defense against disaster.

That picture is emblematic of what the Marines and other warriors have been doing around the world, in all of the collective war zones on this tortured planet. It is not the shot of the soldier with dark glasses and in cammo with a gun slung across his shoulders.

It is not the tragic image of a battered and bloodied combatant, alone on a hill.

It is the picture of that Marine, cradling the child.

Of the Marines on Iwo Jima, raising the flag.

Of every moment that someone in uniform shows up to represent what this country has always meant, despite the woke naysayers who slander the past with their twisted and evolved retelling of facts and events that never occurred.

Those who died this week are an unbearable loss to their families, a horrific sacrifice to what many consider a failed campaign, a tragic reminder of the fragility of life and the toxicity of radical ideology.

But to me, especially, as I deal with the refugees who long to escape the maelstrom in Afghanistan, the fallen represent the light that burns brightly in the hearts of generous Americans, the power of the human spirit against the nihilism of terrorists and opportunists (often interchangeable) and hope.

May their memory be a blessing, an inspiration, and a call to action.

And may their deaths be avenged by our refusal to pay tribute to tyrants.

Christine Flowers is an attorney and a columnist. She can be reached at cflowers1961@gmail.com.
As President Bidens poll numbers plummet, President Trumps four years in office are looking better by the day. While the Trump detractors in the media and both parties desperately wish for him to go away, he refuses to fade into the sunset.

Why would he? A few weeks ago, Trump rallied more than 30,000 enthusiastic supporters at a rainy farm in Cullman, Alabama, vowing to save America from the radical left that resides in the White House. The Alabama rally serves as yet another reminder that Trumps grassroots appeal is hardly fading; to the contrary, Trump supporters are only more passionate about the America First agenda because of the bumbling Biden administration. With the unending, tragic failures of the current administration, headlined by Afghanistan, Trumps popularity is sky-high and his political enemies have no one to blame but themselves. Tens of millions of Americans miss the days of the Trump administration, which would have never presided over a foreign-policy debacle like Afghanistan.

The poll numbers back it up. More than 70% of Republicans would approve of Trump reclaiming the White House in three years. (Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also polls extremely well.) In battleground states like New Hampshire, nearly two-thirds of Republican primary voters consider Trump a good president, hoping that he runs again in 2024.

Think about that: Even after the 22-month Mueller witch hunt and two bogus impeachments, Trumps popularity is soaring. For a half decade, the former president has faced unprecedented vitriol from left-wing Democrats and unrelenting media bias, yet Republicans support him now more than ever. For years, the entire world witnessed a well-coordinated, masterfully orchestrated effort to destroy Trumps family, tarnish his credibility, and limit the success of his administration  yet that effort failed. The Trump administration successfully implemented the most conservative agenda since the Reagan years, which Republicans proudly acknowledge today.

What Trumps enemies fail to grasp is that, with each bogus attack, they only reinforce his persona and entrench the loyalty of his supporters. They have literally created a political figure of mythical proportions, one who will be analyzed and dissected for decades to come. Seeing the lack of fairness and objectivity of the Trump years, tens of millions of Americans are quick to come to his defense.

An attack on him is an attack on Trump supporters writ large. That loyalty endures. As the head of the anti-Biden Committee to Defeat the President, which routinely backed President Trump in 2020, I saw that loyalty firsthand on the campaign trail. The grassroots run deep.

Today, the Trump movement has evolved into the most significant political force in American history. If Trump decides to run again in 2024, there is no Republican in the country who could challenge him for the nomination. Nor is there a single Democrat, judging by the partys weak bench, who could defeat him in the next three years.

Trump is a New York City fist-fighter through and through, and he leads an army of supporters who will fight alongside him. Those supporters will walk on glass to re-elect him and make America great again.

As one of his leading supporters on the ground, I can assure you: President Trump is not going anywhere  except back to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Ted Harvey serves as chairman of the anti-Biden group Committee to Defeat the President. He wrote this for InsideSources.com.
Groups sue Mexico seeking to stop mass removal of migrants View Photo

MEXICO CITY (AP)  Four migrant defense groups in Mexico announced Wednesday that they have sought court injunctions to block what they call massive deportations, arguing the government is violating due process and Mexican and international law governing asylum.

The groups said one legal action was filed Sept. 3 in the southeastern state of Tabasco and another in Mexico City.

The groups contend the government is acting illegally by expelling migrants before dawn and at unestablished (border) points and also by participating in chain expulsions of migrants first flown from the U.S. to southern Mexico and then carried over land by Mexican officials to the border with Guatemala. The migrants are not told of the possibility of seeking protection in Mexico, the groups said.

The migrants expelled from the United States are removed under so-called Title 42 authority, a health provision enacted during the Trump administration with the justification of the COVID-19 pandemic, but continued under the Biden administration.

Most recently, the U.S. has been flying non-Mexican migrants to airports in Mexicos southern states of Chiapas and Tabasco. Mexican immigration authorities then bus them to the Guatemala border, even though many of them are not Guatemalan. In August, there were 34 such flights. United Nations agencies have expressed concern as well.

The organizations, including Asylum Access, the Foundation for Justice, Without Borders and the Institute for Women in Migration, argue that the expulsions violate the ban on removing people with international protection needs and not taking into account the higher interest of children nor the perspective of gender.

In recent days, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has insisted Mexico respects the rights of migrants. The government has been criticized over sometimes violent clashes with migrants trying to walk north from the southern city of Tapachula.

The president has said simply containing migrants in southern Mexico is not sustainable and sent a letter this week to U.S. President Joe Biden insisting the U.S. do more to address the root causes of migration in the region.
Boston cardinal meets Cuban leader on visit to Havana View Photo

HAVANA (AP)  The Roman Catholic archbishop of Boston, Cardinal Sean Patrick OMalley, met with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel on Thursday and visited a Cuban COVID-19 vaccine laboratory at a time of tense relations between the U.S. and Cuba.

Cuban state media published images of the meeting, but gave no details on what had been discussed, though a battery of senior Cuban officials attended, including Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez, the Communist Partys ideology chief and the head of the Foreign Ministrys office of U.S. affairs.

The cardinal made no public comments on politics. Cuba so far has been disappointed in its hopes for a more relaxed relationship with the United State under President Joe Biden following former President Donald Trumps policy of severely tightening the U.S. embargoes of the island.

OMalleys visit to the Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology followed a Wednesday evening Mass in honor of Cubas patron saint, the Virgin of Charity.

For us as Catholics, health is a very important subject, beginning with the example of Jesus Christ, who dedicated so much of his ministry to caring for the sick, said OMalley, adding that the church operates hospitals and clinics around the world.

Cuba is the only country in Latin America to have developed its own vaccines against COVID-19  three of them so far  and it is hoping to win World Health Organization approval for their use in other nations.

The cardinal planned to visit the Dominican Republic later Thursday and then head to Haiti to observe aid efforts for victims of the recent earthquake that killed more than 2,000 people.
Tuolumne Public Health reports 18 new COVID-19 cases since yesterday and 224 are active cases including 14 who are hospitalized. The total current case rate, a 14-day average for Tuolumne County is 47.9 per 100,000 population.

Todays newly reported cases include 4 cases age 17 or under and 6 cases age 60 and older. The gender and age breakdown is; 3 girls age 0-11, 1 boy age 12-17, 2 women and 1 man age 18-29, 3 men age 30-39, 1 woman and 1 man 50-59, 2 women and 2 man age 70 to 79 and 1 woman and 1 man age 80 to 89.

Of the 18 new community cases, 14 were unvaccinated, and 4 were vaccinated. The California department of corrections reports 28 active inmate cases, the most at one correctional facility in the state.

Calaveras County Public Health reports two COVID-19 deaths, a male in his 80s and a female in her 70s. There was no further information about the deaths. There are 24 new Covid cases since yesterday and 83 active cases including 5 Covid hospitalizations. There are 11 new cases age 0-17 and 1 new case in an individual arg 65 years old or older. Since the pandemic began Calaveras has had 424 Covid-19 positive people who are 17 and under and 558 Covid-19 positive people 65 and over.

Mariposa Public Health reports 4 new Covid cases since yesterday, there are 32 active cases including 10 Covid hospitalizations. They shared a message from the California Rural Indian Health Board as part of the Indigenous Week of Action 2021: COVID-19 who state Together we can limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community and surrounding areas. Correctly using masks, handwashing, and socially distancing can greatly reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Much like weaving a basket, a single step will not make a tight weave of protection, it is the combination of steps that can help in keeping our communities safe. To view more resources or to find information of the impact of COVID-19 on the California Indigenous community, please visit: https://ccuih.org/covid19/covid-dashboard

COVID-19 Testing Public Health officials say, As a reminder, the symptoms of COVID-19 can sometimes be dismissed as allergies, a cold, wildfire smoke irritation, indigestion, etc. If you are experiencing any new or worsening symptoms, even if its only one of the symptoms, please get tested right away and avoid close contact with others while waiting for your results. Symptoms can include fever or chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, cough, fatigue, headache, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. If you have more serious symptoms such as pain or pressure in your chest, trouble breathing, bluish lips or face, sudden confusion, having a hard time staying awake, dizziness, contact your healthcare provider or urgent care.

If you believe you have been exposed to COVID, schedule an appointment to get tested 5 days after exposure. If you are having any symptoms, please get tested right away. The State testing site is open 7 days a week beginning from 7 AM to 7 PM at the Mother Lode Fairgrounds. Appointments should be made rather than walking in. Appointments can be scheduled at www.lhi.care/covidtesting or by calling 888-634-1123. Testing is also available through, some pharmacies, at Rapid Care or the hospital emergency department if you are experiencing any symptoms, or contact your healthcare provider.

COVID-19 Vaccines Vaccine appointments can be made at local pharmacies and through myturn.ca.gov or by calling 833-422-4255. Anyone 12 and older is eligible for a COVID vaccine, Pfizer is approved for anyone age 12 or over. As detailed here healthcare workers are required to be vaccinated by September 30. The Pfizer vaccine requires 3 weeks between doses and the Moderna requires 4 weeks. The J&J vaccine requires only one dose. Call or email with any questions you may have Tuolumne is available at (209) 533-7440 Health@tuolumnecounty.ca.gov, Mariposa at (209) 259-1332 or mariposacovid19@gmail.com more numbers are available on our COVID-19 page here.

Public Health continues to strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated, as the most important step to reduce the spread of disease and prevent serious illness and death, as well as to reduce the impact on the healthcare system. In addition, the continued practice of other preventive actions like wearing a mask in public, keeping your distance, avoiding crowds, washing hands, and staying home when sick will help slow the spread of the virus.

Health Officials detail, Choosing to help the Public Health Department slow the spread of COVID-19 helps protect you, your family, and your community. We all need to work together to slow the spread of COVID-19. We strongly encourage everyone to be part of the solution and answer the phoneit may be the health department calling to let you know your test result came back positive for COVID-19, or that you have been in close contact with someone who has it. For more information on contact tracing click here, for isolation and quarantine information go here.

County/Date

Tier Color Active

Cases New Cases

Total Cases COVID

Deaths Amador 9/7 121 19 2,748 47 Calaveras 9/8 83 24 3,024 66 Mariposa 9/8 32 4 862 10 Mono 9/8 42 1 1,215 5 Stanislaus 9/8 2,566 119 69,439 1,185 Tuolumne 9/8 224 18 5,017 96 For other county-level statistics view our page here.
Joseph Frank Pineda Pimentel View Photo

Update at 5:20 p.m.: The bail for a Manteca man arrested for the rape of a homeless woman in Sonora has been raised. A DNA match allowed for the arrest of 37-year-old Joseph Frank Pineda Pimentel, who works as a Surgical Technician at Adventist Health Sonora.

As reported below, he had been arrested last week by Turlock Police for a similar attack and they labeled him a serial rapist. Both departments warned that there could be more victims in the Foothills and Central Valley and urged them to come forward.

A bail enhancement was requested Thursday (Sept. 9) by the Tuolumne County District Attorneys Office, according to Sonora Police. In a Tuolumne County Courtroom, the D.A. asked for and a judge granted a bail increase from $150,000 to $1,000,000. Sonora Police stated, It is the number one goal of the Sonora Police Department and our partners to ensure the safety of our community. Further details on the case can be viewed below.

Original post Wed. (Sept. 8) at 5:45 p.m.: Sonora, CA  A Manteca man was arrested for allegedly raping a homeless female in Sonora and she may not be the only victim.

The crime dates back to June 4th. Sonora Police spokesperson Thomas Brickley reports that the victim, a woman in her late thirties, was walking along West Stockton Street and a Hispanic male driving a dark-colored SUV pulled over and asked if she needed a ride. Brickley detailed, The victim accepted the offer and got inside of the vehicle. The male drove the victim to an undisclosed location instead of the intended destination. The male then ordered the victim out of the vehicle and raped her by force.

Police were notified of the rape by Adventist Health Sonora after the victim was brought in by ambulance, but Brickley did not have any information regarding her condition at the time or if she had been beaten. DNA samples were collected during a forensic exam and on August 31st police were notified of a match to 37-year-old Joseph Frank Pineda Pimentel.

Further investigation, including follow-up with Turlock Police, revealed that Pineda Pimentel had just been arrested on September 02, for rape. On Tuesday, (Sept. 7) he was arrested again, this time by Sonora Police, and without incident for rape using force or fear. His bail was set at $150,000.

On the daily Tuolumne County Sheriffs Arrest/Custody Report it states that Pineda Pimentel is a Surgery Technician and was arrested at Adventist Health Sonora. Clarke Broadcasting reached out to the hospital for comment. Communication Manager Jaquelyn Lugg via email stated, Pineda Pimentel is an employee, but he is not on the schedule and is not currently working. We would also like to add that there is no indication that these charges involve a patient or other employees, and the arrest was not due to events that occurred on hospital grounds.

Sonora Police Investigators also want to alert the public that there may be more victims in the Foothills and Central Valley areas. Brickley disclosed, We urge any additional victims to come forward and report the crime to the jurisdiction where the crime occurred. Investigators ask homeless resource groups to encourage those they assist in the homeless resources groups to encourage those they assist in the homeless population to report any crime that occurs to them.

As this investigation is ongoing, police ask that anyone with information regarding this incident call the Police Department at (209) 532-8141.
Senate opposition leads White House to withdraw ATF nominee View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  The White House said Thursday it would withdraw the nomination of a gun-control advocate to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives after nominee David Chipman ran into bipartisan opposition in the Senate.

Chipmans nomination had stalled for months and he was widely seen as one of the administrations most contentious nominees. The White House and top Democrats had been pushing to save his nomination for weeks but could not secure the necessary votes, with some Democrats saying privately they would not vote for him.

Despite that, President Joe Biden blamed only Republicans. He would have been an exemplary director of the ATF, Biden said in a statement. Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress have made clear that they intend to use gun crime as a political talking point instead of taking serious steps to address it. Thats why theyve moved in lockstep to block David Chipmans confirmation.

Chipman is a former federal agent and adviser at the gun control group Giffords. He won praise from advocates for his work pushing for greater regulation and enforcement on ghost guns, overhauling the background check system and moves to reduce the trafficking of illegal firearms.

But that same advocacy drew opposition from moderate Republicans such as Sens. Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, as well as independent Sen. Angus King of Maine, dooming his prospects for confirmation in the 50-50 divided Senate.

In a statement, Chipman said he remained committed to addressing the issue of violent crime and domestic terrorism.

I knew this confirmation process would be difficult, and while ultimately we werent successful, it remains essential that ATF is led by a confirmed director who is accountable to the public and places no special interests before the safety of our children and our communities, he said.

The withdrawal continues a pattern for Republican and Democratic administrations who have failed to get nominees through the politically fraught process since the directors position was made confirmable in 2006. Since then, only one nominee, former U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones has been confirmed. Jones made it through the Senate in 2013 but only after a six-month struggle. Jones was acting director when then-President Barack Obama nominated him in January 2013.

The nomination of Chuck Canterbury, a former president of the Fraternal Order of Police, by then-President Donald Trump was withdrawn in 2020 over Republican concerns about his gun rights stance.

The withdrawal of Chipmans nomination leaves the chief firearm and explosive investigation agency without a confirmed leader at a time when the Biden Administration has made gun violence enforcement a priority, but with limited resources.

Earlier this year Biden announced a series of executive actions aimed at what he called an epidemic and an international embarrassment of gun violence in America.

The actions amounted to a fraction of the ambitious gun control agenda he proposed as a candidate and underscored his limited power to act alone on guns with difficult politics impeding legislative action on Capitol Hill.

Biden has urged Congress to tackle a number of issues, including expanded background checks and banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

But with an evenly-divided Senate  and any gun control legislation requiring 60 votes to pass  Democrats would have to keep every member of their narrow majority on board while adding 10 Republicans.

A person with knowledge of discussions with Chipman said he had been offered a position at Justice but turned it down. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the person was not authorized to speak on the record.

By MIKE BALSAMO and ALEXANDRA JAFFE

Associated Press
MENIFEE, Calif. (AP)  Five U.S. Marines were slightly injured Wednesday when their truck went off a Southern California highway, authorities said.

The truck was towing a trailer with an artillery gun when it went off Interstate 215 in Menifee in Riverside County at around 12:45 p.m., authorities said.

It rolled down an embankment and landed on its side, authorities said.

The Marines on board were treated for minor injuries, authorities said.

The 30,000-pound Oshkosh truck was in a convoy and may have had a mechanical problem when it veered off the roadway, California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Lassig told the Riverside Press-Enterprise.
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  Reminiscent of their previous harsh rule in the 1990s, the Taliban have already begun to wipe out some of Afghanistans gains of 20 years. They've denied women a seat at the Cabinet, beaten journalists into silence and enforced their severe interpretation of Islam, on occasion violently.

And yet there seems little the international community can do about it.

The world will need to engage with the Taliban to some extent, despite disappointment with the new all-Taliban Cabinet that defied earlier promises it would be inclusive.

The U.S. needs Taliban cooperation to evacuate the remaining Americans and to fight an increasingly brazen Islamic State affiliate, considered the greatest terrorist threat against America emanating from Afghanistan. In recent weeks, the IS flag has been seen flying from several districts of the eastern province of Nangarhar.

Meanwhile, a humanitarian disaster that threatens millions of Afghans has the world scrambling to respond. On most days, Qatar is flying in food and medical supplies. Pakistan has announced it is sending planeloads of aid to Afghanistan.

The United Nations has launched a $606 million emergency appeal to help nearly 11 million people in Afghanistan, or nearly one-third of the population. They are deemed to be in desperate need as a result of drought, displacement, chronic poverty and a sharp increase in hostilities as the Taliban swept to power last month.

Even before the Taliban takeover, nearly half the population needed some humanitarian aid and more than half of all children under the age of 5 were expected to face acute malnutrition, according to the U.N. report that accompanied the emergency appeal.

The economic challenges are steep. Most Afghans live on less than $2 a day, 80% of the countrys budget was covered by international funds over the past 20 years, and no industries of note have emerged to provide employment to a mostly young population. Tens of thousands of Afghans have fled, most of them members of the educated elite.

Yet despite such dependence on international support, the Taliban sent a message with their Cabinet lineup this week that they intend to run Afghanistan on their terms. They named a government filled with veterans of their 1990s rule and the subsequent insurgency against a U.S.-led military coalition. Their Cabinet includes former Guantanamo Bay prisoners and  perhaps one of the most eyebrow-raising appointments  Sirajuddin Haqqani, wanted by the FBI for questioning in several deadly attacks, as interior minister.

They also forbade protests without prior authorization in a new attempt to silence dissent and reportedly banned some womens sports.

The Taliban would seem to want it both ways  to run Afghanistan according to their harsh interpretation of Islam, while maintaining some level of cooperation with the international community.

In portraying their Cabinet as a caretaker administration, the Taliban signaled there is still room for change and that other nations can do business with this government without recognizing it first.

In a three-page policy statement that accompanied the formation of the government, the Taliban also addressed concerns of the region and the larger world. They promised Afghanistan would not be used as a staging arena for attacks on other countries. They said they would not interfere in the affairs of other nations and demanded the same in return. And they pledged to allow Afghans to leave the country, provided they have the proper travel documents.

I imagine the use of the term caretaker is very strategic, said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center. The idea is to create an impression that at some point the government will change and become more inclusive, and therefore more amenable to the West.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, directing his words at the Taliban, warned Wednesday that any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned. He spoke after hosting a virtual meeting of ministers from 22 countries as well as NATO and the European Union.

It's unlikely, however, that the Taliban's top leadership will change anytime soon. Its tens of thousands of fighters will have to be brought under a single Afghan National Security Force banner, even integrating some of the previous military personnel into the mix. But that won't happen without the likes of Haqqani, the new interior minister, or the Taliban founder's son Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the defense minister.

In time, economic necessity might prompt the Taliban to loosen their grip and allow women and non-Taliban into the administration, but likely in secondary roles. For women, this might mean work in the traditional fields of health and education.

The Taliban "need to open the door and trust non-Taliban in governance. They need to bring technocrats ASAP to get the economy going, said Torek Farhadi, an adviser to previous Afghan governments.

The Taliban face a number of challenges to their rule.

Prolonged economic stagnation could lead to protests by the country's growing poor who might eventually decide they have little to lose by openly challenging the hard-line rulers. Afghans of 2021 are not the compliant population of 1996  a time when the Taliban had little trouble imposing their uncompromising edicts.

There are also debates and differences within the movement and no one among the Taliban has absolute authority, unlike in the past, under the late founder Mullah Mohammad Omar who had the final word.

The West and Afghanistan's regional neighbors hope to use money and recognition as leverage to influence the Taliban.

Wednesday's ministerial meeting signaled that the U.S. and Europe will be watching the Taliban closely.

Kugelman, from the Wilson Center, said others, such as Pakistan, China and Russia, might eventually set a lower bar for formal recognition of a new Afghan government. China has already promised to stay engaged and mine Afghanistan's vast mineral resources while helping rebuild the war-ravaged nation. Still, Kugelman said, the Taliban badly need access to billions of dollars in foreign reserves that the West has denied them.

The announcement of its very non-inclusive Cabinet will put those funds further out of reach, he said.

___

Gannon has covered Afghanistan for The Associated Press since 1988. She is the APs news director for Afghanistan and Pakistan. Follow her on Twitter at www.twitter.com/kathygannon.
When you were a carefree kid, the hardest decision you had to make at a pool party was which color freeze pop you wanted. Well, its time to make popsicle decisions again: This summer Truly, a brand known for their hard seltzers and lemonades, came out with alcoholic Lemonade Freeze Pops. Dailys Cocktails, known for their frozen pouch drinks, also premiered alcoholic popsicles called Dailys Poptails.

But which alcoholic popsicle brand reigns supreme this summer? Ive taken the guesswork out for you: Recently, when the temperature was in the 90s, a mixed gender group of alcohol enthusiasts in their late 20s and early 30s (which is just code for me and my friends) decided to cool down with a pool party. I brought both brands of alcoholic popsicles and everyone thoroughly compared the brands and I took notes. Below are the results. Ill go over the price differences, alcoholic percentages, and, most importantly, flavor.

Which popsicle has more bang for your buck?

Trulys Lemonade Freeze Pop Variety Pack costs $17.99 on Drizly for a box with 12 popsicles. The alcohol by volume (ABV) is 5%. For the same amount of popsicles, Dailys Poptails only cost $16.99. Their ABV is 6.8%.

This means with Dailys, youre spending less money and getting a higher amount of alcohol. If your main focus is consuming as much alcohol as possible through popsicles or if you plan to buy a substantial amount and want to save money, Dailys Poptails is the clear winner. However, if you want a frozen trip to flavortown and taste is your top priority, keep reading as your buying decision may change.

Dailys Poptails Variety Pack Dailys drizly.com $16.99 Shop Now

Which is the tastier popsicle?

Trulys Lemonade Freeze Pops come in three flavors, including Original Lemonade, Mango Lemonade, and Strawberry Lemonade. The Original Lemonade tastes exactly how you would imagine it would. It tastes just like a mostly frozen Truly Hard Seltzer Lemonade.

In terms of the Truly popsicle flavors, this tended to be either peoples favorite or least favorite flavor. However, even people who ranked it third for the Truly flavors still enjoyed it. Its refreshing like Italian ice and you can taste the alcohol a bit more than other flavors.

Truly Lemonade Freeze Pop Variety Pack drizly.com $17.99 Shop Now

The Mango Lemonade was most peoples favorite  myself included. The flavor by far beat the others. It wasnt overwhelming, while still being delicious. As popsicle eater Aryn gushed, while eating her mango lemonade popsicle, I havent been this giddy eating a popsicle since I was six years old.

Strawberry Lemonade was the middle of the pack. Tasty, but not a favorite. The flavor was subtle and summery, but didn't stick out among the other choices.

All of the Truly popsicle flavors are a light lemonade color, eliminating your childhood urge to pick a flavor based on your favorite hue. A lot of people actually liked the lack of color as they didnt fear it would turn their lips and teeth weird colors. Popsicle fan Amanda explained, I like that theyre not colorful. You can take them seriously.

Having slightly less alcohol in the popsicles, compared to Dailys, means the popsicles were firmer because hard alcohol (think 40-80 proof) doesnt completely freeze at standard home freezer temperatures like beer or wine does (you can steal that fun fact for your own pool party).

Most agreed the firmness was better than having it slushier, especially because the sun quickly softens them. Overall, the consensus was that these popsicles definitely had to be bought for future gatherings.

The Dailys Poptails popsicle flavors include Green Apple, Strawberry, and Watermelon. Visually, the colors are bright and vivid, which instantly set them apart from the Truly popsicles. The Green Apple color looks as if it would glow in the dark, though sadly, tests concluded that it does not (I told you we were getting scientific). Several people commented that it tastes like Jolly Ranchers, but I could only describe it as tasting like pure Halloween. That may not be the clearest adjectival phrase, but Im sure it would be a welcome treat at Halloween parties.

I was excited for the Strawberry flavor since it felt like it would be the easiest direct comparison to Truly. The description of this flavor ranged from just like gummy bears to the aftertaste is like Seagrams. Most people agreed that Trulys Strawberry Lemonade flavor was superior to Dailys Strawberry, because Dailys was a bit too syrupy sweet.

Finally, we get to the interesting Watermelon flavor  which is interesting because not a single person described it as tasting like watermelon. When the first person to try the flavor said it tasted like bubblegum with a walnut aftertaste, I laughed, but when I finally got around to trying it, I had to agree it was an accurate description. Even weirder? Despite not sound super appealing, this ended up being the favorite Dailys Poptails flavor. Its a unique flavor I hadnt really experienced, and definitely worth a try.

With all flavors taken into account, judged solely on flavor, Trulys Freeze Pops were the near-unanimous winner. Most people agreed that even their least favorite Truly flavor was tastier than their favorite Poptail. Truly was truly better. The consensus was that Truly is worth buying and either brand is worth enjoying if somebody else is supplying popsicles.

However, if you want to save a few dollars, get a higher alcohol content, or take more Instagram-worthy photos with bright colors, Dailys Poptails might be what you need. The best option? Get both and conduct your own taste test with a group of friends (and make sure to tell me what you think the Watermelon flavor tastes like)!

Tips for consuming alcoholic popsicles

Do use a drink koozie to to hold your popsicle stick if your hands are getting too cold. I was proud of my boyfriend for coming up with this idea before somebody went to fetch oven mitts.

Dont stick one in your drink to use as a flavorful ice cube. They arent solid enough and will melt in your drink on a hot day. Somebody learned this the hard way.

Do use scissors to cut them in half if you have a lot of people who want to try a bunch of different flavors. These popsicles are larger than I expected and they cut easily with sharp scissors.

Dont cut your mouth on the freeze pops. If not cut strategically, you can get some sharp corners.

Do eat them quickly. They taste much better frozen than when they turn into liquid and you can taste the alcohol more.

Do try a variety of flavors. You never know what you might like best!
An old bar and corner store in the Alta Vista neighborhood is set for a restaurant revival.

The San Antonio Zoning Commission gave initial approval for a zoning change at 2602 N Flores Street, where a small, old, abandoned 304-square-foot building sits on .17 acres.

Property owner and developer Michael Perez, managing partner of MP2 Urban Development, has plans to turn the building into a restaurant that neighbors will want to stop by early in the morning for a doughnut and coffee, or a lunch spot for area students and young professionals.

"I'd like to find a tenant that would fit the neighborhood with a really cool restaurant or cafe," Perez says.

Since the property has a historic designation, Perez must find a way to restore and integrate the property. The historic designation was initiated by Perez because he wanted to preserve the neighborhood's history.

The property was built in 1926 and used to be the site of a Liberty Service Station, one of the first in the area. It became a grocery store in 1946, and then Patsy's Ice House sometime in the '80s.

MP2 Urban Development

Since Perez is friends a professor from the University of Texas School of Architecture, the concept drawings were created with the help of students who used the building for a restoration and reuse project.

The zoning change still needs final approval from San Antonio City Council, then designs will need to go before the Historic and Design Review Commission for approval. Perez can then begin his search for the right tenant for the restaurant space.
Way Out Kombucha, a new meeting place in Monticello Park (floating between an elote shop and tortilleria), is bottling uniquely Texan house-brewed kombucha, tea, and drip coffee.

The recently opened concept was born into the world when four longtime friends, Carlos and Alana Perez and Shea and Jack McGilvray, decided to take a stab at a project in their own neighborhood.

Emerging from the ennui of various careers in IT, construction, and the arts, Way Out intends to joyously beckon those who have previously been burned by smelly corporate kombuchas, the sort of bottles bubbling in the health food section, omitting an overly vinegary, fermenting gym-bag type of aura.

Sparkling flavors like Sunrise, an orangey ginger blend that professes to pair well with breakfast tacos, and the slightly minty Fredericksburg Road Peach are emblazoned with crunchy yet colorful labels that are appropriately designed for social media. Mulling over the shop's Instagram page through a glowing screen, with the determined beverages nodding back at you, youd be hard pressed to not want to miss out on the optimism.

Our current aesthetic is acknowledging that we might live in a simulation, but still accepting that we can still push to have more fun, love, and beauty in our daily lives, says Carlos Perez, one of the shops palate whisperers along with Shea.

Perez has been brewing his own kombucha on and off for the past four years. During pandemic lockdown, he began taking the time to refine his methods. Nodding to the third wave kombucha movement, he feels the fermented beverage is in the midst of a renaissance.

We think it is pretty reasonable to have a neighborhood kombucha spot as an option, much like you'd go to a coffee shop or enjoy a brewery's tap room, Perez shares.

The kombucha craftsman emphasizes that when it comes to this notoriously healthy beverage, its about striking an even keel. Ultimately, an important aspect of the Way Out way of life is removing barriers and restrictions to wellness that often extract from the joys of existence and exclude people from participating.

Jess Elizarraras/MySA

The little stucco storefront proclaims to be both gut- and mental health-minded.

We can all do better with a few decisions every day while also living our full life within our culture. Maybe find a few delicious lower-sugar beverage alternatives, or put some spinach in your breakfast taco. If we can present approachable kombucha or our sugar-free sweet tea as an option, we can continue to have discussions about health that promote living a full life with good things in it."

From the start, Perez explains that flavor wise, leaning into the culture is important too, but not in the way that many who are familiar with the local food scene might expect.

We aren't looking to do a Big Red and barbacoa-flavored kombucha for the puro clickbait, but there are ways to highlight seasonality in our region that are already embedded in cultural offerings like fruit cups, raspas, and and the fruit tree at your grandma's house that you wish you appreciated more now that you bought one and it didn't survive the freeze, he says.

The bootstraps operation is entirely financially bolstered by the team. The friends are still figuring things out as they move along. Way Out desires to be an outpost for good things in their neighborhood. They started vending juice from the Eastside's Southwest Elixir's, in an effort to prevent people from having to trek across the city.

The specialty coffee arm of the business, while perhaps not the main focus, is still taken seriously, especially in terms of how it can bring people together.

I think that specialty coffee is a gateway to community and beverage exploration, so it is very important. The challenge is doing it in San Antonio when there are so many great coffee brands doing a lot of cool things. San Antonio is a latte town, so not having an espresso machine puts us on the back foot, shares Shea.

However, through help from friends at Estate, Gold and Indy coffee, theyve been able to develop quality cold-brew and drip offerings, while allowing room for inventive locally crafted kombucha and tea to take the wheel.

Driving down Fredericksburg Road, you might stop in the storefront Friday or Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon, and Sunday or Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Single 750 milliliter bottles, the size of a typical wine bottle, can be purchased for $15, online or in person. If you're more of a stock up and save certified kombucha lover, four bottle bundles are available for $56.

If you find yourself still hesitant to try this fizzy, soda alternative teeming with healthy bacteria, Perez challenges you with this: "Your life is just a palate journey, anyways. So just try something new."
KUWAIT CITY (AP)  U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Thursday the al-Qaida extremist group that used Afghanistan as a staging base to attack United States 20 years ago may attempt to regenerate there following an American withdrawal that has left the Taliban in power.

Austin spoke to a small group of reporters in Kuwait City at the conclusion of a four-day tour of Persian Gulf states. He said the United States is prepared to prevent an al-Qaida comeback in Afghanistan that would threaten the United States.

The whole community is kind of watching to see what happens and whether or not al-Qaida has the ability to regenerate in Afghanistan, he said. The nature of al-Qaida and (the Islamic State group) is they will always attempt to find space to grow and regenerate, whether its there, whether its in Somalia, or whether its in any other ungoverned space. I think thats the nature of the organization.

The Taliban had provided al-Qaida with sanctuary while it ruled Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. The U.S. invaded and overthrew the Taliban after it refused to turn over al-Qaida leaders following the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the United States. During the course of the 20-year U.S. war, al-Qaida was vastly diminished, but questions have arisen about its future prospects with the Taliban back in Kabul.

We put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that to happen," Austin said, referring to the possibility of al-Qaida using Afghanistan as a staging base in the future.

In a February 2020 agreement with the Trump administration, Taliban leaders pledged not to support al-Qaida or other extremist groups that would threaten the United States. But U.S. officials believe the Taliban maintain ties to al-Qaida, and many nations, including Gulf Arab states, are concerned that the Taliban's return to power could open the door to a resurgence of al-Qaida influence.

Austin has asserted that the U.S. military is capable of containing al-Qaida or any other extremist threat to the United States emanating from Afghanistan by using surveillance and strike aircraft based elsewhere, including in the Persian Gulf. He also has acknowledged that it will be more difficult without U.S. troops and intelligence teams based in Afghanistan.

Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken appeared together in Qatar on Tuesday in a show of U.S. gratitude for that Gulf state's help with the transit of tens of thousands of Afghans and others evacuated from Kabul. Blinken also visited an evacuee transit site in Germany, and Austin visited Bahrain and Kuwait.

Together, the Austin and Blinken trips were meant to reassure Gulf allies that President Joe Bidens decision to end the U.S. war in Afghanistan in order to focus more on other security challenges like China and Russia does not foretell an abandonment of U.S. partners in the Middle East. The U.S. military has had a presence in the Gulf for decades, including the Navys 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Biden has not suggested ending that presence, but he  like the Trump administration before him  has called China the No. 1 security priority, along with strategic challenges from Russia.

Austin, a retired Army general, has a deep network of contacts in the Gulf region based in part on his years commanding U.S. and coalition troops in Iraq and later as head of U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East. This week's trip, however, was his first to the Gulf since taking office in January.

Austin had been scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia on Thursday as the final stop on his Gulf tour. But on Wednesday evening his spokesman, John Kirby, announced that the visit had been dropped due to scheduling issues. Kirby offered no further explanation but said Austin looked forward to rescheduling.

Austin indicated that his visit was postponed at the Saudis' request. The Saudis have some scheduling issues; I can't speak to exactly what they were, he said.

The Saudi stop notably was to happen two days before the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States that killed nearly 3,000 people. Fifteen of the men who hijacked commercial airliners and crashed them into the twin towers of the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and a Pennsylvania field on Sept. 11, 2001 were Saudis, as was Osama bin Laden, whose al-Qaida network plotted the attack from its base in Afghanistan. The attack prompted the U.S. invasion that became a 20-year war in Afghanistan.

U.S. relations with the Saudi government have been strained at times in the intervening years. In 2018, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman oversaw an unprecedented crackdown against activists, rivals and perceived critics. The year culminated in the gruesome killing of Washington Post contributing columnist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents in the Saudi Consulate in Turkey.

Earlier this month, President Joe Biden directed the declassification of certain documents related to the 9/11 attacks, a gesture to victims families who have long sought the records in hopes of implicating the Saudi government. Public documents released in the last two decades, including by the 9/11 Commission, have detailed numerous Saudi entanglements but have not proved government complicity.

The Saudi government denies any culpability. On Wednesday the Saudi Embassy in Washington released a statement welcoming the move to declassify and release more documents related to 9/11, saying, no evidence has ever emerged to indicate that the Saudi government or its officials had previous knowledge of the terrorist attack or were in any way involved in its planning or execution.
This Saturday, September 11, marks the 20th anniversary of the landmark attacks that ushered in a global shift.

SA911, a contingent of local fire fighters and first responders, are honoring those who fell two decades ago with their annual commemorative climb, the San Antonio 110, one of the largest 9/11 Memorial climbs in the world.

Over 100 different agencies and around 500 first responders are expected to gather, along with civilians and military personal.

Typically, paying tribute involves an upward march up the stairs of the Tower of the America's, however this year, due to COVID-19 concerns, the event will take place at open-air venue, NEISD Heroes Stadium.

3 1 of 3 Billy Calzada, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Billy Calzada, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Show More Show Less 3 of 3





"To reach their goal of paying tribute to their fallen they will climb the stadium stairs up to four times to reach, and actually exceed, the height of the World Trade Center Towers in which our fallen heroes perished in. Tags for each of the 343 fallen firefighters, with their name and photo on it, will be carried by firefighter participants," reads a press release statement.

Additionally, lives of fallen law enforcement officers and EMS will be honored when representatives from both groups carry 70 police tags and nine EMS tags respectively.

Event day T-shirts, designed by American Fire Apparel, will be for sale with all proceeds going toward the San Antonio 110 9/11 Memorial Climbs chosen beneficiary, the 100 Club of San Antonio.

After the climb, an open doors after party, "Blood, Sweat and Brews," will occur at Alamo Beer Company. All are welcome to share camaraderie and a brew in the name of the somber national watershed event. San Antonio 110 commemorative pint glasses will be sold while supplies last.

The after event at Alamo Beer Company will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 202 Lamar Street.

Check in for the climb begins at 6 a.m. for an 8 a.m. ceremony at Heroes Stadium, located at 4799 Thousand Oaks Drive.
City council took steps to memorialize Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza on Tuesday.

Council approved the motion to honor Espinoza, who was one of 13 U.S. service members killed in a suicide bombing at Afghanistans Kabul airport, by memorializing Cielto Lindo Boulevard as Lance Corporal David Lee Espinoza Memorial Boulevard.

Ceremonies for Espinoza will be held starting this weekend.

Espinozas body is scheduled for a dignified transfer to the airport which will be closed to the public on Friday. However, while this event is closed to the public, the family has invited the community to participate in a welcome home procession.

Citizens can park in areas alongside the route which runs from the Hillside Road exit to McPherson Road, E. Del Mar Boulevard, N. Bartlett Road and finally Jacaman Road where it will end at the Joe Jackson North funeral home at 1410 Jacaman Rd. For the procession - which does not have an official start time yet - the city is encouraging the community and business owners to wave American flags during the procession to show respect for the fallen local hero.

Then Saturday, there will be a family viewing at the facility. This will be closed to the public. However, Sunday there will be a public viewing at Joe Jackson North. The family has invited the community to pay their respects on this day as they can arrive at any time from 8 a.m. through midnight.

Finally, military honors will take place on Monday, Sept. 13. A religious ceremony at St. Patrick Catholic Church will be held at 10 a.m. which will be streamed live at facebook.com/saintpatrickchurchlaredotx. The mass will be followed by the funeral procession at 11 a.m. at Espinozas alma mater of Lyndon B. Johnson High School.

Finally, the procession will depart to the City of Laredo Cemetery. During this time, the family again has invited the public to line up along the route from LBJ to the city cemetery to pay their respects.

gkroeger@lmtonline.com

Twitter: @gkroegs
Global travel is still far from returning to anything like the conditions that existed prior to the pandemic  at least for non-essential travellers.

The EUs covid-19 passport has been of little benefit for Spains tourism industry, according to Carlos Abella, secretary general of the countrys Tourism Board. The expected boost to confidence and mobility between countries that the single-page document was supposed to provide has not materialised. On the contrary, each country has set its own rules and that has generated a lot of uncertainty.

As NC warned back in late June, Europes grand reopening risked becoming a bit of a damp squib. Travel restrictions were still in place for many countries, including the UK, where cases of the Delta variant were (and still are) surging. In 2019, the UK ranked as the leading tourist market for Spain, accounting for almost one in every four visitors, as well as Cyprus and Malta. In Greece and Portugal it was the second largest. But it wasnt until August that British travellers could finally visit the mainland. Many chose not to.

A Lot Better than 2020 But Still a Lot Worse Than 2019

Spain received 4.4 million overseas tourists in July, according to the National Institute of Statistics (INE). Thats 78% more than last year. But its still 55% less than the same month of 2019, back in the old prepandemic days. The overall balance for this year so far is also not overly encouraging. Between January and July 2021, 9.8 million foreigners visited Spain. Thats significantly below the 13.2 million arrivals the country had received by July 2020  thanks to the two and a half normal months of tourism (January to mid-March) before the first lockdown. It is also 80% lower than the 47.9 million arrivals Spain received in the first seven months of 2019.

In other words, recovery is still a long way off. And that is not good news for a sector that provides around 13% of Spains GDP. Last year, foreign tourist expenditure collapsed to less than 20 billion, from 92 billion in 2019. Domestic tourism picked up some of the slack, but nonetheless Spain still ended up suffering the second biggest loss in tourism revenues (-$47 billion) worldwide, after the US (-$147 billion).

As happened last year, domestic tourism has made up some of the difference so far this year. Eighty-eight percent of Spanish residents who travelled this summer stayed local. That is good news for the environment. It also provided vital support for the countrys all-essential hospitality industry, although it was not such good news for travel agents or airlines. And vacationing Spaniards, even with all the savings amassed (by some) over the past 18 months of lockdowns, curfews and travel restrictions, do not have as much disposable income as German, British, Scandinavian, Asian or American tourists.

Domestic tourism has performed very well, even surpassing pre-Covid levels, above all in coastal areas, says Abella. And it has salvaged the summer season, but it does not make up for the fall in international visitors.

In the absence of overseas visitors Spains Tourism Board said it will be impossible to save the industry without a common EU-wide policy on travel requirements for the bloc. Hotels and hostels that have struggled to generate revenues over the past 18 months are going under. Many are being bought by private equity funds. Even in the northeastern region of Catalonia, which has seen the highest occupancy levels this summer, 113 hotels  ranging from small-family run pensiones to big luxury establishments belonging to global chains  have been put up for sale, according to the real estate portal Idealista. Sixty-five of them are in Barcelona.

In other parts of the EU, the summer season was either somewhat better or somewhat worse than in Spain. Cities and regions that tend to attract long-distance travellers have fared worse. A case in point is Rome which has grown to depend on the custom of well-heeled American and Asian visitors. Though travellers from the US, China, Japan and South Korea were on the EUs safe list for travel to Europe for much of this summer, they have not been coming in anywhere like the numbers of prepandemic years.

Roman tourism is 80% foreigners, and of those, 80% are Americans and Asians, says Walter Pecoraro, owner of the Cosmopolita hotel in Rome and president of Romes hoteliers association. According to the association, 600 hotels out of 1,200 were open this summer, with an average occupancy rate of 30% to 35%.

In Italy as a whole, a record number of native holidaymakers travelled within their own country. According to a survey by Italian tourism and commerce agency CNA, 23 million Italians chose to vacation at home this summer compared to 17 million in 2020 and 18 million in 2019. But the country only attracted some six million foreign visitors over the same period  far fewer than before the pandemic.

It was a similar story in France, which had a pretty good summer, according to Sebastien Manceau, a tourism specialist at consulting firm Roland Berger. But this was largely thanks to the French themselves: some 37 million (of a population of 67 million) took vacations this summer, and 85% of them stayed in the country, said Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, secretary of state in charge of tourism.

Greece Winning the Race

When it comes to luring visitors from far and wide, one country appears to have outperformed all the others: Greece. Despite raging wildfires and surging Covid-19 infections across Europe, Greece managed to surpass the two-million milestone in both July and August, which hasnt happened since 2019. According to the Greek Aviation Authority, air traffic during the first half of this year was up by 146% on the same period of 2020. But it was still down by 63% on pre-pandemic levels.

It was in midsummer that arrivals began surging. On August 13, the Financial Times proclaimed Greece winner in the race for tourism recovery in Europe, despite the wildfires afflicting the area north of Athens. The main reason for the countrys success, according to the FT article, was the effective marketing campaign used to let people around the world know that Greece is open for tourism. Another reason is that Greece recognises the highest number of covid vaccines for travel in Europe. As a consequence, travellers from all over the world inoculated with one of the many vaccines it accepts (see list here) can travel to the country without having to quarantine.

On July 1, the EU introduced a vaccine passport for all of its member states, with the ostensible aim of easing travel within and (in theory) to Europe for EU citizens and residents who are fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19. But the EU (European Union) Digital COVID Certificate programme only relaxes travel to and within the region for recipients of one of the four vaccines approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA)  i.e., those developed by BioNTech-Pfizer, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), Moderna and Vaxzevria. Chinese-, Russian-, Indian- and Cuban-made vaccines did not make the grade.

This means that people from places that are not on the EUs safe list of third-party countries that have received one of these vaccines are barred entry, unless the country they hope to visit has made the necessary exemptions. In the case of Greece, it had made exemptions for six additional vaccines (Sinovac, AstraZeneca  Serum Institute of India, Novavax, Sputnik V, Cansino Biologics and Sinopharm Bip). Countries such as France and Italy made no exemptions whatsoever while Spain allows entry to people who have received Chinese-made vaccinations, since they have dominated vaccine supplies in Latin America, with which Spain has extremely close ties.

New Bans on US Travellers

The bad news is that the good times (in an extremely relative sense) may already be coming to an end, even for Greece. Last week, the EU announced it was dropping the US, as well as five other countries (Israel, Bosnia, Lebanon, Montenegro and North Macedonia), from its safe list. Its now up to each of the EUs 27 member states to decide what measures to take, though the message from Brussels is clear: entry for nonessential US travellers should be reconsidered.

Many prime tourist destinations, including Spain and Greece, have so far chosen to ignore the non-binding advice. Just three countries have change the rules so far: the Netherlands and Sweden, which have imposed a quarantine for all US visitors, even those who are fully vaccinated, and Italy, which will require all travellers to show proof of a PCR or antigen Covid test taken within 72 hours of travel.

The ostensible reason for removing the US from the safe list is the surging number of infections in the countries. But theres also probably an element of tit-for-tat in the decision. The US has kept its ban on European non-essential travel in place since March 2020. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that the lack of reciprocity would not be allowed to drag on for weeks. That was a few weeks ago.

Over the last 18 months the only way non-essential EU travelers have been able to reach the US is via a third country that is not subject to US travel restrictions. But you have to spend 14 days in quarantine there before being able to continue on to the US.

Its a reminder that global travel is still far from returning to anything like the conditions that existed prior to the pandemic  at least for non-essential travellers. It may never happen. In the meantime, the pain continues to grow for many companies in the travel and tourism industry, as well as the countries that have grown to depend upon it for the income and jobs it generates.
By Joan Fitzgerald, Professor of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, Northeastern University and Julian Agyeman, Professor of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning, Tufts University. Originally published at The Conversation.

The US$1.2 trillion infrastructure bill now moving through Congress will bring money to cities for much-needed investments in roads, bridges, public transit networks, water infrastructure, electric power grids, broadband networks and traffic safety.

We believe that more of this money should also fund the dismantling of racist infrastructure.

Many urban highways built in the 1950s and 1960s were deliberately run through neighborhoods occupied by Black families and other people of color, walling these communities off from jobs and opportunity. Although President Joe Biden proposed $20 billion for reconnecting neighborhoods isolated by historical federal highway construction, the bill currently provides only $1 billion for these efforts  enough to help just a few places.

As scholars in urban planning and public policy, we are interested in how urban planning has been used to classify, segregate and compromise peoples opportunities based on race. In our view, more support for highway removal and related improvements in marginalized neighborhoods is essential.

As we see it, this funding represents a down payment on restorative justice: remedying deliberate discriminatory policies that created polluted and transit-poor neighborhoods like West Bellfort in Houston, Westside in San Antonio, and West Oakland, California.

Freeway construction has devastated minority neighborhoods in cities across the U.S.

Policies of Separation

Many policies have combined over time to isolate urban Black neighborhoods. Racialized rental and sales covenants began appearing in U.S. cities in the early 1900s. They changed cityscapes by restricting certain neighborhoods to whites only, which concentrated Black people in other areas. Racialized zoning, outlawed by the Supreme Court in 1917, was followed by single-family or exclusionary zoning, which restricted residents by socioeconomic class  a proxy for race in the U.S.

Next came redlining, a classification process that started in 1933 when the federal government rated neighborhoods for its loan programs. Working with real estate agents, the federal Home Owners Loan Corp. created color-coded neighborhood maps to inform decisions by mortgage lenders at the Federal Housing Administration.

Any neighborhood with substantial numbers of Black residents was colored red, for hazardous  the riskiest category. Other New Deal programs, such as the Federal Housing Authority and Fannie Mae, built on redlining by requiring racially restrictive covenants before approving mortgages.

Beginning with the first federal highway law in 1956, transportation planners used highways to isolate or destroy Black neighborhoods by cutting them off from adjoining areas. Once the highways were built, the social and economic fabric of these neighborhoods began to deteriorate. Distinguished environmental justice scholar Robert Bullard calls this transportation racism, alluding to the way in which isolation limited employment and other opportunities.

The Lasting Impacts of Highway Construction

Today low-income and minority neighborhoods in many U.S. cities have much higher levels of fine particulate air pollutionthan adjoining areas. Across the U.S., Black and Latino communities are exposed to 56% and 63% more particulate matter, respectively, from cars, trucks and buses than white residents.

Decades of work by environmental justice activists and academics have shown these neighborhoods also are much more likely to be chosen as sites for polluting industrial facilities like incinerators and power plants.

Formerly redlined neighborhoods also have less tree cover and green space today than white neighborhoods. This makes them hotter during heat waves.

Did you know that not only is there an unequal distribution of heat in NY, it also follows other patterns of inequality? This @nytimes piece breaks down the heat disparity in NYC and why #TreeEquity is is so important. Check it out here:https://t.co/wy8QAJWpwf  TAZO (@Tazo) August 25, 2021

One outcome is that life expectancy in the nations cities is compromised, varying considerably between the lowest- and highest-income ZIP codes. The worst cities have gaps as high as 30 years.

As one example, Delmar Boulevard in St. Louis is a socioeconomic and racial dividing line. North of Delmar, 99% of residents are Black. South of Delmar, 73% are white. Only 10% of residents to the north have a bachelors degree, and people who live in this zone are more likely to have heart disease or cancer. In 2014, these disparities led Harvard University researchers, based on their work on the Delmar Divide, to conclude that ZIP code is a better predictor of health than genetic code.

Transportation investments in the U.S. have historically focused on highways at the expense of public transportation. This disparity reduces opportunities for Black, Hispanic and low-income city residents, who are three to six times more likely to use public transit than white residents. Only 31% of federal transit capital funds are spent on bus transit, even though buses represent around 48% of trips.

Reconnecting Neighborhoods

Many highways built in the 1950s are now deteriorating. At least 28 cities have begun or are planning to partly or fully remove highways that have isolated Black neighborhoods rather than rebuilding them.

Cities began removing expressways, particularly elevated ones, in the 1970s. While these teardowns were mostly to promote downtown development, more recent projects aimed to reconnect isolated neighborhoods to the rest of the city.

For example, in 2014 Rochester, New York, buried nearly a mile of the Inner Loop East, which served as a moat isolating the citys downtown. Since then, the city has reconnected streets that were divided by the highway, making the neighborhood whole again.

Walking and biking in the neighborhood have increased by 50% and 60%, respectively. Now developers are building commercial space and 534 new housing units, more than half of which will be considered affordable. The $22 million in public funds that supported the project generated $229 million in economic development.

Rochester, N.Y., is filling in the Inner Loop highway that formerly isolated its downtown, catalyzing new street improvements.

Other cities that have removed or are removing highways dividing Black neighborhoods include Cincinnati, Chattanooga, Detroit, Houston, Miami, New Orleans and St. Paul. There are only a few well-documented case studies of freeway removal, so it is too early to identify factors leading to success. However, the trend is growing.

In our view, combining highway removal with significant investments to improve bus networks that serve these neighborhoods would significantly improve access to jobs, housing and healthy food. Removing highways would also open up land for new green spaces that can improve air quality and provide cooling. However, we are also mindful that green amenities can cause environmental gentrification in these communities if they are not accompanied by robust support for affordable housing.

Simply removing highways wont transform historically disadvantaged neighborhoods. But it can be a key element of equitable urban planning, along with housing stabilization and affordability, carefully planned new green spaces and transit improvements. For an administration that has pledged to prioritize racial and environmental justice, removing divisive highways is a good place to start.
(Natural News) Australias state of Victoria will lock out people whore unvaccinated against the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) from participating in the economy, according to Premier Dan Andrews.

Victoria is currently subject to strict lockdown restrictions. Residents of Melbourne, the state capital and most populous city, are living under a 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew and are forbidden to leave their homes except to work, buy groceries or get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Restrictions to apply only to unvaccinated in Victoria

While Victorias draconian restrictions are set to be lifted, Premier Dan Andres said that future restrictions will be applied to those who are unvaccinated.

There is going to be a vaccinated economy, and you get to participate in that if you are vaccinated, said Andrews on Sunday, Sept. 6. Were going to move to a situation where, to protect the health system, we are going to lock out people who are not vaccinated and can be.

He added: If youre making the choice not to get vaccinated, then youre making the wrong choice.

Defending his statement, Andrews said he did not want to have to lock down the entire state for everyone, just to protect those who choose not to get vaccinated.

I am not going to lock the whole state down to protect people who would not protect themselves, he said Friday, Sept. 3. If you are not vaccinated, and you could be, the chances of you booking a ticket at a sporting event, going to a pub  will be very limited.

Victoria is more than halfway to its target of 1 million vaccinations, with 58.1 percent of eligible citizens to have received their first dose, in five weeks.

We are still obviously a number of days away from being at that milestone  of 70% single dose but  the quicker we get to 70%, the more vaccinations undertaken, the more we will be able to make those changes announced the other day, Andrews said.

The proposed restrictions on the unvaccinated then will become a mechanism for the state government to encourage people to get jabbed, allowing Victoria to reach its vaccination goals.

Victoria restrictions could have ramifications for the rest of Australia

Restrictions for the unvaccinated are just the beginning of the measures that the Victoria state government is looking to implement.

Andrews revealed that a vaccine passport scheme would be piloted in regional Victoria in the coming weeks. With this passport, proof of vaccination would be required to enter public establishments, such as pubs and restaurants.

Victorian pub owners are reportedly on board with the idea. Talking to ABC Australia, one bar owner stated that whilst we certainly dont like the idea of turning anyone away, we need to do whatever it takes to ensure the survival of our business.

The states implementation of a vaccine passport could also have wider implications for the rest of Australia. (Related: These videos prove Australia is a Tyrannical police state.)

Earlier this summer, the Australian government agreed to study the rollout of Victorias vaccine passport scheme. This was to be done with the view to eventually implementing a similar scheme nationwide.

Should Victorias restriction give them the numbers they need, then its possible that other measures the state has taken, including locking unvaccinated people out of the economy, may be copied in other Australian states.

Other Australian states have already implemented their own restrictions. Among these is New South Wales where Premier Gladys Brejiklian imposed a similarly rigorous lockdown last month. This lockdown, which is slated to run until at least the end of September, is currently being imposed by hundreds of police officers and soldiers on the streets of Sydney.

In addition, police have also been given the power to lock down entire apartment blocks and enforce compliance checks on residents.

For more on the draconian restrictions being implemented in Australia, follow Fascism.news.

Sources include:



RT.com

TheGuardian.com
(Natural News) The Thrive Time Show sat down with Dr. Bryan Ardis to talk about how COVID-19 protocols that hospitals are required to follow are actually killing patients.

According to Ardis, hospitals dictate the protocols for COVID-19 treatment, and among these protocols include the use of drugs remdesivir, dexamethasone, and vancomycin  drugs, that, together, can cause serious adverse effects to the body.

Ardiss statements were backed by studies. (Related: Dr. Bryan Ardis exposes the truth behind COVID-19 protocols  Brighteon.TV.)

Specific antiviral treatments for COVID-19 have not been clearly identified; therefore, there had been several strategies proposed to treat patients. Using convalescent plasma and interferon, chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, and interleukin 6 receptor inhibitors are some of these treatments. Ivermectin, which inhibits nuclear transport of viral proteins, is also on the list.

Remdesivir was previously used as a treatment of ebola, and has since been approved by the FDA for the treatment fo COVID-19 in certain situations.

Patients with mild clinical presentation who may not initially require hospitalization may manage their illness at home. However, the decision to monitor a patient in an in-patient or outpatient setting should be made on a case-to-case basis.

Ardis is making the case that the U.S. system has failed Americans. His father-in-law was recently taken to the hospital with a fever and a headache. Within days, his health deteriorated by developing pneumonia, and then kidney failure. Five days after he was admitted, Ardis claimed his father-in-law was barely conscious.

He then found that the hospital was treating him with antibiotics.

Moreover, tests came to how that his father came back negative for bacterial, viral or fungal infections.

Still, the hospital continued to treat him with antibiotics as per protocol.

The only reason why you would do that is to cover up your crimes of murdering someone by drowning them to death, and we were able to prove to them that they were actually purposely doing that with an ill-advised hospital protocol, Ardis said.

After consulting with the family, doctors injected morphine into his father-in-law, to relieve the pain. Except that Ardis believes they are murdering loved ones in front of you.

WHO recommends against use of remdesivir

This is the same case as with COVID-19 patients, using remdesivir, which was more dangerous than everyone thought.

The World Health Organization suggested that there is no important effect on mortality, need for mechanical ventilation, or other patient-important outcomes that result from the use of remdesivir.

The controversy surrounding remdesivir and other cocktail drugs shows conflicting evidence of their effectiveness. Some found that COVID patients who received the drug recovered faster with fewer deaths, while other studies showed that it did not reduce the length of hospitalization or death rate.

What is questionable is that remdesivir has not been held to the same standards as other candidates aiming to treat COVID-19. Even the vaccines, which have been developed faster than traditional drugs were able to pass the phase-3 clinical trials that test whether or not the drugs are safe and effective for use in people.

Remdesivir is also expensive, even though it is not guaranteed to save patients from COVID. It also has the flaw of being a high-dosage drug over a short time frame, which contributes to many adverse side effects. It does not prevent people from being infected by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, either. The viruss genetic material mutates to create new strains of virus and variants of COVID-19, and thus there is a need for other alternative treatments to buy time for the development of newer vaccines.

Listen more about Dr. Ardiss thoughts on using remdesivir and other drug cocktails to stop COVID-19 on the Thrive Time Show, Mondays at 3:30 PM on BrighteonTV.

Learn more at Pandemic.news.

Sources include:

Planet-Today.com

Forbes.com
(Natural News) Some doctors are openly discussing refusal to treat patients who decline, for whatever reason, to get the jab. This would set a dangerous precedent and shatter fundamental tenets of medical practice.

(Article by R.M. Huffman republished from RT.com)

An insidious sentiment has begun metastasizing throughout the United States and Britain, expressed by politicians, pundits, and  most disturbingly  by physicians themselves: that the unvaccinated who contract Covid-19 should be denied medical care.

It gets worse. A former US senator from Missouri, Claire McCaskill, also wants the unvaccinated to have their insurance rates raised. Piers Morgan, the British TV personality, demands to his nearly 8 million Twitter followers that the NHS must refuse them hospital beds. An emergency medical physician in Arizona responds to a video clip of people unmasked in a grocery store with a message, Let em die. A liver surgeon at Massachusetts General suggests that declining a Covid vaccine should be treated by doctors as a functional Do Not Intubate/Do Not Resuscitate order.

These are neither private thoughts nor quiet conversations with overworked colleagues: these are calls to action, shared on social media, intended for public consumption.

This should terrify you.

Physicians are translating these verbal assaults into action. Doctors in Florida staged a mock walkout, frustrated that their hospitals are filling up. A North Texas task force was obliged to walk back a proposal to allot ICU beds based on vaccination status rather than need. An Alabama family practitioner is firing all patients who chose not to be vaccinated, whether they were sick or not.

The medical community in the West is teetering on the edge of philosophical malpractice, and for the sake of patients present and future, its members must step back and recall why and how we do our jobs.

A fundamental tenet of medical practice is non-maleficence, summed up in the Latin primum non nocere first, do no harm. In televised remarks on June 2 of this year, President Joe Biden declared of the three available Covid vaccines: The bottom line is this  I promise you: They are safe. They are safe. This message has been echoed, without qualification, by powerful entities ranging from hospital administrations mandating staff vaccinations to professional organizations: The vaccine is safe.

Let me be clear: I believe vaccination is one of the most important therapeutic innovations in the history of medicine. Vaccines have saved millions upon millions of lives. That said, I also believe that the way these Covid vaccines, with their novel mechanisms of action, have been introduced to the public  as a silver bullet, idiot-if-you-decline, nail-in-the-coronavirus-coffin solution  is disingenuous, hyperbolic, and simply not justified by the existing data.

There are some indications that the vaccines may not be entirely safe to all. VAERS  the United States governments Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System  suggests that, while adverse events are extremely rare, they include paralysis, inflammation of the heart, blood clots, and death. These have been largely dismissed on the grounds that the VAERS reporting doesnt establish causation, and that isolated cases  like the BBC presenter who died after she received the jab  arent data, and all thats certainly true.

However, drug therapies, especially novel ones, cannot be treated as innocent until proven guilty; rather, all possible adverse events must be thoroughly and formally explored as consequent to the drug, because occasionally the true harm is worse than anyone imagined, as Merck famously discovered with FDA-approved Vioxx back in the early 2000s. Research published in the medical journal Lancet estimated that 88,000 Americans had heart attacks from taking Vioxx, and 38,000 of them died.

There is no evidence at this stage that the Covid vaccinations are anywhere near as dangerous as that. But the medical industrys general dismissal of their potential dangers, to the point of imposing vaccine mandates on young, healthy populations like those in the US military, betrays its commitment to non-maleficence and will cost lives.

No medical therapy comes without risk, but informed consent  another foundational principle of medicine  demands that even minuscule risk be related accurately to the patient. A tiny percentage doesnt mean an insignificant number; at least 6,000 (and rising) deaths attributed to voluntary Covid vaccination per VAERS is twice the fatalities from the 9/11 attacks. That cannot be brushed aside with a comment about statistical significance.

In perhaps the most irresponsible instance of failure to note risk, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine has declared unequivocally that the vaccination is safe before, during, or after pregnancy, knowing full well that no trial has ever been done to thoroughly test that premise.

In medicine, circumstances abound where a negligible risk nevertheless prompts drastic action. Just a handful of reports describing low blood pressure during an operation means that if youve taken phentermine, commonly prescribed for weight loss, on the day before elective surgery, your case will almost certainly be canceled. In 2003, the FDA gave the venerable drug droperidol (prescribed to help with nausea and vomiting that are side effects of other drugs) a black box warning, despite more than three decades of wide use without a single case report of confirmed cardiac complications in antiemetic doses.

Any anesthesiologist will include risk of heart attack or stroke in his preoperative discussion with a patient, no matter how many thousands of uneventful anesthetics he or she has given. Doctors have historically been concerned with infinitesimal risk and made concerted efforts to inform and protect the patient accordingly. Our collective failure to do the same in the case with novel Covid-19 vaccines is unconscionable and baffling.

In modern medicine, patient autonomy is sacrosanct. One cannot be given a medical intervention by force; most famously, Jehovahs Witnesses can refuse blood, even as a lifesaving measure, and a physician ignores that wish at great professional peril.

Covid-19 vaccine decliners are largely painted in media, both traditional and social, as purposefully ignorant, brainwashed by anti-science conspiracy theorists. Such a broad branding doesnt explain the reticence of a former Pfizer executive, or a cardiologist and internist whos authored hundreds of published papers, or thousands of doctors and nurses whove been on the front line of the fight against Covid for eighteen months and have seen up close the devastation it can cause.

Real reasons abound: a mistrust borne of witnessing Anthony Fauci and then-Surgeon General Jerome Adams change their positions on television; a recognition that evidence for long-term efficacy is weak and may be decreasing; moral objection to drug therapy developed using cell lines from electively aborted fetuses; a personal evaluation of risks and benefits of vaccine versus Covid based on age and health. Even so, the validity of the reason doesnt matter. Patient autonomy is to be respected without exception. To do otherwise means to fundamentally change the relationship between patient and physician.

Perhaps we should change it, though. Never mind that nobody seeks out Covid, or that their risky behavior simply entails normal activities of daily life, or that questions about vaccine safety are building. Perhaps if a persons decisions are judged by the medical industry to be irresponsible and unsafe, that should preclude care, freeing up resources  beds, money, doctors time  for patients who actually demonstrate concern for their own health.

Imagine the precedent that would set, though. The disease burden of the Western world is largely predicated on bad patient habits, mainly tobacco use, alcohol abuse, and caloric overconsumption and sedentary lifestyle leading to widespread obesity (with a rate in the US of 42% and climbing). These cost the taxpayer hundreds of billions of dollars yearly, soaking up enormous resources, and  if the habits arent changed  will ultimately render care futile, to be temporizing measures at best.

One might counter that these behaviors dont affect others, unlike failing to protect against a communicable disease. Ignoring the fact that Covid vaccines are non-sterilizing and arent proof against transmission: will we apply that standard to gay men with AIDS? To intravenous drug users with hepatitis C? To sex workers with STDs? To drunk drivers who cause fatal car wrecks? Once medical caregivers declare themselves arbiters of who deserves treatment, there exists no principle that limits such self-appointment to but only unvaccinated Covid patients, and just for now. Its a horrifying prospect.

For physicians, nurses, and everyone involved in delivering medical care, what we must do is simple: treat the patient. Treat the vasculopath getting his sixth bypass and still smoking two packs a day. Treat the chronic pain patient who weighs three times what her skeleton was designed to support. Treat the gangbanger who broke his wrist fleeing from police and crashing into a family of five, killing four of them. Treat the drunk with a blood alcohol concentration of .441, back in the ER yet again. Treat the man who shoved a flashlight so far up his colon that he has to have an operation to remove it. Treat them all with the same excellent care youd provide to anyone else.

And treat the unvaccinated in the same way you treat the vaccinated.

I have, and will continue to do so.

We provide care based on need, not our own perception of whos deserving of it. Shake your head clear of the fog of frustration thats drifted up over the course of the Covid pandemic. Remember why you chose this thankless, difficult, honorable profession. Do your job.

And if you cant, please, please go do something else.

Read more at: RT.com and VaccineWars.com.
(Natural News) The Intercept has blown the lid on fake television doctor Tony Faucis illegal gain-of-function research in Wuhan, China, which predicated the unveiling of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19).

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which is run by Fauci, along with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), its parent agency, were both involved in sending American taxpayer money to China, and who even knows where else, to pick apart and tamper with coronaviruses for the purpose of constructing deadly biological weapons.

Surprise surprise  Fauci lied again, tweeted Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who has repeatedly grilled Fauci and exposed him as a liar and a fraud.

And I was right about his agency funding novel Coronavirus research at Wuhan, Paul added in a tweet, linking to the Intercept piece showing that newly released documents contain a full rundown of Faucis direct involvement in coronavirus research at the infamous Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), Chinas only known level-four biosafety lab.

As revealed by The Intercept, more than 900 pages of materials related to U.S.-funded coronavirus research in China fully implicates Fauci for treason.

Were it not for Fauci, there never would have been a Chinese Virus, nor would there have been a litany of vaccines to continue spreading more of its variants  though Donald Trump is also to blame for unleashing Operation Warp Speed.

The trove of documents includes two previously unpublished grant proposals that were funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, as well as project updates relating to EcoHealth Alliances research, which has been scrutinized amid increased interest in the origins of the pandemic, The Intercept reports.

The documents were released in connection with ongoing Freedom of Information Act litigation by The Intercept against the National Institutes of Health. The Intercept is making the full documents available to the public.

Fauci paid for covid to be developed, unleashed

According to Gary Ruskin, executive director of U.S. Right to Know, a group that has been investigating the origins of the Wuhan Flu, the 900-plus-page document trove is a road map to the high-risk research that many believe resulted in the Fauci Flus seeming emergence out of nowhere.

It turns out that the virus did not originate in bats from a Wuhan wet market as was originally claimed. It came about because Fauci paid for it to be developed and unleashed.

Sen. Paul, meanwhile, continues to expose Fauci as the liar and criminal that he is every chance he gets. Fauci committed treason against the United States and needs to be held accountable for it.

The documents make it clear that assertions by the NIH Director, Francis Collins, and the NIAID Director, Anthony Fauci, that the NIH did not support gain-of-function research or potential pandemic pathogen enhancement at WIV are untruthful, says Rutgers University Board of Governors Chemistry Professor Richard H. Ebright.

Every time Fauci is confronted with the truth, he wriggles around in his chair and arrogantly denies any wrongdoing. The world has come to expect this type of behavior from that Oompa-Loompa, who is guilty of committing unspeakable crimes against humanity throughout his career in government.

Fauci lied and my grandma died, wrote one commenter at Zero Hedge. This guy deserves the death penalty.

Prison is too nice for Fauci, wrote another, expressing what many are now thinking as they learn the truth.

To keep up with the latest news about Fauci, the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19), and the medical terrorists who are feverishly working to plunge the world into a total fascist police state, be sure to check out Fascism.news.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com

TheIntercept.com

Archive.is
(Natural News) The ACLU has published an article in the New York Times followed up by a tweet which asserts that the government forcing people to take vaccines is a victory for civil liberties.

(Article by Paul Joseph Watson republished from Summit.news)

No, this isnt out of the Babylon Bee.

Far from compromising them, vaccine mandates actually further civil liberties, the organizations tweet ludicrously claimed. They protect the most vulnerable, people with disabilities and fragile immune systems, children too young to be vaccinated, and communities of color hit hard by the disease.

Far from compromising them, vaccine mandates actually further civil liberties. They protect the most vulnerable, people with disabilities and fragile immune systems, children too young to be vaccinated, and communities of color hit hard by the disease. https://t.co/UYfQY2EEqj  ACLU (@ACLU) September 2, 2021

The tweet linked to a New York Times opinion piece written by ACLU staffers which further amplified claims that the government forcing people to take a vaccine under threat of them losing their jobs, social lives and potentially in the future the right to buy and sell was actually a boon for civil liberties.

Whats next? Maybe the ACLU will call for the government to forcibly incarcerate Americans for their controversial political opinions because it might prevent harm.

Respondents on Twitter were swift to ridicule the organizations absurd hypocrisy.

The government forcing a needle in your arm is actually them furthering your civil liberties is quite the take even from Marxists like you. Thank you for dropping the mask to reveal yourselves though, remarked Robby Starbuck.

"The government forcing a needle in your arm is actually them furthering your civil liberties" is quite the take even from Marxists like you. Thank you for dropping the mask to reveal yourselves though.  Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) September 2, 2021

Look at that stretch! commented Charlie Nash.

look at that stretch! pic.twitter.com/qS5F0zbdrv  Charlie Nash (@CharlieNash) September 2, 2021

It is so sad to see how much leftism has destroyed your organization. Any real civil liberties union needs to be actively against the left and you are example #1 as to why, tweeted Steven Kolln.

It is so sad to see how much leftism has destroyed your organization. Any real civil liberties union needs to be actively against the left and you are example #1 as to why  Steven Kolln (@stevenkolln) September 2, 2021

Perhaps the best summary was tweeted by journalist Glenn Greenwald.

Having the state force citizens to inject their bodies with a medicine they dont want is a victory for civil liberties actually, says the @ACLU.

Having the state force citizens to inject their bodies with a medicine they don't want is a victory for civil liberties actually, says the @ACLU: https://t.co/Y5exMaCWcJ  Glenn Greenwald (@ggreenwald) September 2, 2021

Read more at: Summit.news and Propaganda.news.
(Natural News) The Delta variant is so last week. The latest strain of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) to infect the mainstream media is the Mu variant, which is supposedly beginning to rise in America just as the government is gearing up to reintroduce another round of lockdowns.

Since tens of millions of Americans are refusing to take Donald father of the vaccine Trumps Operation Warp Speed injections, the medical police state is running through the Greek alphabet trying to scare people with letter after letter.

As the story goes, the Mu variant was first discovered in Colombia back in January. Since that time, it has mysteriously spread to at least 40 other countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom.

In the U.S. alone, there are now said to be at least 2,3000 cases of the Mu variant that have been detected using fraudulent PCR tests.

The only state in the country that is supposedly Mu variant-free right now is Nebraska, we are told. Conveniently, the Mu variant magically appeared in the U.S. just as the Delta variant is said to be nearing its end.

As usual, the scientists are supposedly freaking out about the Mu variant, which mainstream media reports claim could be the most dangerous to spring up yet. Does anyone still believe this nonsense?

California, Florida lead nation in new Mu cases

The Mu variant is so serious that there are now 384 cases of it, supposedly, in the entire state of Florida. California, and specifically Los Angeles, is another Mu hotspot, we are told, also with 384 cases.

When they are not too busy filming TikTok dance videos, hospital staff say they are overwhelmed by all the new Mu cases flooding their work facilities. They would rather be on social media than have to deal with all those pesky patients, apparently.

The World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the Mu variant back in late August, readying the world for the next wave of medical fascism to come with it.

This time around, the U.S. could see even more draconian restrictions than it did for the Delta variant, which is obviously the goal. With each new Greek letter of the virus that is introduced, the medical police state hopes to ratchet up the tyranny as much as possible.

Los Angeles County, which has a total population of around 10 million, is said to have 167 cases of the Mu variant. This represents a 0.0000167 percent infection rate, which health authorities consider to be very scary.

The identification of variants like Mu, and the spreading of variants across the globe, highlights the need for L.A. County residents to continue to take measures to protect themselves and others, announced L.A. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer.

This is what makes getting vaccinated and layering protections so important. These are actions that break the chain of transmission and limits COVID-19 proliferation that allows for the virus to mutate into something that could be more dangerous.

Prior to California taking the lead, Alaska supposedly had the highest number of Mu cases at 146, followed by 73 in Connecticut, 42 in Maine, and 39 in Hawaii.

Fake television doctor Tony Fauci is extra fearful about Mu, having told whoever still watches him talk the other day that it is critical to pay attention at all times to every new variant that is introduced.

It is all so tiresome that the only logical response is to laugh. The plandemic has been over for at least a year, if it ever even began, and yet the talking heads are still bombarding the world with made-up bull excrement at every turn. This truly is a clown world.

More of the latest fake news about Chinese Virus variants can be found at Propaganda.news.

Sources for this article include:

DailyMail.co.uk

Archive.is

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) A survey found that almost three-fourths of unvaccinated employees would quit if companies require the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine. According to the poll, only a measly 16 percent of unvaccinated workers would get the COVID-19 vaccine. The survey came amid different employers in the U.S. mandating the shot for their workers after Pfizers Comirnaty vaccine was granted full approval.

The poll conducted by the Washington Post and ABC News had 1,066 adult respondents. They were interviewed between Aug. 20 and Sept. 1, 2021. According to the WaPoABC News poll, only 16 percent of unvaccinated respondents would get the COVID-19 vaccine if their employer requires it. Meanwhile, 42 percent said they would quit their jobs while 35 percent said they would ask for an exemption on medical or religious grounds.

But in the case a medical or religious exemption is not available, 72 percent of respondents said they would resign. Only 18 percent of respondents said they would still get injected with the vaccine despite a lack of exemption.

On the other side of the fence, more than half of U.S. employers said companies will have some sort of COVID-19 vaccine requirement by the end of 2021, The Hill reported. A survey conducted by Willis Towers Watson (WTW) said 52 percent of the more than 950 employers it asked plan to have one or more vaccine requirements for their employees. Some of these requirements included restricting access to common areas for vaccinated workers and mandatory injections for every employee.

WTW conducted the poll from Aug. 18 to Aug. 25, 2021. It found that nearly a third of businesses plan to make vaccination a requirement to gain access to workplaces. Furthermore, it found that 21 percent of businesses are considering vaccination as a condition of employment. Almost 60 percent of businesses were tracking their employees vaccination statues, with 19 percent expected to follow suit. Up to 80 percent of respondent firms said they would require unvaccinated employees to mask up in indoor settings, with 13 percent to adopt similar measures.

An earlier August 2021 poll conducted by Fox News reflected customers preference for employees to be vaccinated. Its survey found that 44 percent of respondents were more likely to visit establishments with vaccinated employees or workers who test negative for COVID-19.

The vaccine mandates have compromised first responders

Given that private entities already required employees to get vaccinated, public entities also followed suit and mandated government workers to get the COVID-19 shot. Seattle radio station KTTH 770 reported on Sept. 6 that more than 200 Seattle Police Department (SPD) officers may be terminated for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine. The department already lost 300 officers as a result of calls for defunding following the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020. (Related: Seattle defunds the police, slashing law enforcement budget by 18%.)

Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan put the mandate in place, adding that city workers who refuse the COVID-19 vaccines are to be terminated. Full vaccination against [COVID-19] is a condition of employment, regardless of ones age, risk factors or prior infection, the city said. Durkan gave an Oct. 18 deadline for city staff to be fully vaccinated. While religious and medical exemptions would be offered, it remained unclear if Seattle will accommodate these.

KTTH host Jason Rantz noted that just over 200 SPD officers said they had not been vaccinated against COVID-19 or had refused to turn over their private medical data. The 200 officers comprised roughly 20 percent of the departments deployable staff. The SPD, already stretched dangerously thin, cannot stand to lose any more officers, he said.

However, some law enforcement officers in Seattle believe the COVID-19 vaccine is not necessary for them to do their job. Others say they have been in the field for more than a year without any vaccine. Some other SPD officers argue that the government has no right to obtain data on peoples private medical decisions and that the government has no business at all on the matter.

The Seattle Police Officers Guild, which represented officers in the SPD, began negotiating with city leaders on the matter. We are hopeful that terminations will not be necessary and all unvaccinated employees choose to get vaccinated, a spokesperson for Durkan said.

New York cops threaten to sue over vaccine mandates

While the SPD officers went to the negotiating table with Durkan, the largest union of police officers in New York City has threatened to sue Mayor Bill de Blasio over his vaccine mandate. Police Benevolent Association (PBA) President Patrick Lynch said the union will protects its members right to refuse the COVID-19 vaccine.

Lynch said in an email obtained by the New York Post: If the city attempts to impose a vaccine mandate on PBA members, we will take legal action to defend our members right to make such personal medical decisions. He added in the same email that the city has not indicated whether it will attempt to impose vaccine mandates on other city workers, including police officers. (Related: NYC police union threatens to sue if city requires cops to get vaccinated.)

According to local NYC news outlets, unvaccinated New York City Police Department (NYPD) members were required to wear face masks at all times in both indoor and outdoor settings. Officers who fail to comply with the mask mandates could face disciplinary action, an NYPD bulletin said.

Only 47 percent of the NYPDs uniformed and civilian workforce were vaccinated against COVID-19, according to recent data. Back in January 2021, NYC unions lobbied for cops to get priority positions in the citys vaccination drive. However, NYPD officers themselves had doubts when it came to the COVID-19 vaccine  leading to less than half of its employees getting the shot.

Last year, NYC Police Commissioner Dermot Shea said officers would not be required to get inoculated against COVID-19. However, he appeared to have walked back on his statement by saying that he would one hundred percent support a vaccine mandate. Everyone  all across this country really should be embracing these vaccines, Shea said.

The commissioner noted that the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine already received full approval from the Food and Drug Administration. I think everyone [not yet vaccinated] should be lining up to get it, he continued. Sixty NYPD employees had already succumbed to COVID-19.

HealthFreedom.news has more articles about people standing up against mandatory COVID-19 vaccination.

Sources include:

WND.com

DailyCaller.com

TheHill.com

FoxNews.com

MyNorthwest.com

TheEpochTimes.com

NYPost.com
(Natural News) Conservative author, activist and former ambassador Alan Keyes is back with the second episode of Lets Talk America on Brighteon.TV.

For this episode, he continues his discussions with the Health Ranger Mike Adams as well as Bob the Plumber, this time about how those in power are using the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as a convenient excuse to turn democratic countries into medical police states.

Watch the full episode below or on Brighteon.TV.

Australia is an example of a medical police state

Adams begins the show talking about recent events in Australia. The country has slowly turned into a medical police state with federal and state governments passing draconian lockdown measures and giving police and the military sweeping powers to enforce them.

As part of this, the country recently passed a controversial online surveillance bill that gives the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) the authority to both monitor the network activity of suspected offenders as well as take their online accounts over.

In addition, police have also been given the authority to abduct people from their homes and put them in quarantine camps if they test positive for COVID-19. Beyond that, various Australian states are looking into vaccine passport measures that will exclude those who havent been vaccinated against COVID-19 from participating in daily life.

How can they call themselves a liberal democracy if its really a medical police state and theres theres no other way to describe it? Adams asks. Its medical authoritarianism with I think its it was [Victoria state Premier Dan Andrews] there saying that hes going to lockout unvaccinated people. (Related: Woman in Australian quarantine camp harassed by cops for removing face mask to drink tea.)

Adams then goes on about the other threats these restrictions pose to Australians, mentioning how they may soon not be able to get any medical care at all if theyre unvaccinated.

No doctor will see, you know, pharmacists will fill a prescription, he says. And if you have an emergency, they wont see you. In emergency rooms, ambulances wont pick you up.

Whats next with firefighters not put out fires in your home? he adds Because youre not vaccinated or police wont respond to emergency calls, because thats where its going.

Israel cases rise despite vaccinations

Australias draconian measures, just to get people to get vaccinated, brings to question the effectiveness of these so-called COVID-19 vaccines.

For this, the discussion moves on to Israel, a country that has the highest percentage of its population vaccinated. Despite this fact, however, Keyes points out that the country is currently experiencing a large number of breakthrough cases among vaccinated individuals. (Related: Coronavirus cases spike in highly vaccinated Israel but drop in unvaccinated Palestine.)

It faces a serious problem now because the folks who are what breakout is occurring, says Keyes. And theyre getting infection coming down with stuff, theyre the vaccinated people.

Keyes then points out that many in the medical field, including first responders, have noticed this. This has caused many of them to have second thoughts about these COVID-19 vaccines and even refuse to take them.

It doesnt look like this is working and I think that word is getting around, which is why people are balking at it, he says. Including people who are, you know, first responders and things like this are saying, no, I dont want to do that, because theyre probably thinking consequential terms about whether or not this trade-off is really a good idea.

But those in charge continue to ignore these warnings in a push to gain more control while claiming that what they do is necessary to fight this so-called pandemic.

For more on how people are losing their freedoms because of COVID-19 restrictions, tune in to Lets Talk America, every Thursday from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

NaturalNews.com 1

NaturalNews.com 2

NaturalNews.com 3
(Natural News) The Associated Press (AP) has been forced to issue a retraction after the definitive source for independent journalism was caught publishing a fake news story about people supposedly being poisoned by ivermectin.

The AP falsely claimed that 70 percent of all calls to the Mississippi Poison Control Center now involve overdose cases where people self-administered the livestock medicine to try to treat a Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) infection.

As it turns out, only about 2 percent of calls to the Mississippi Poison Control Center had anything to do with ivermectin. This was confirmed by State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers.

The fake news report was amplified by NPRs Chris Menahan, who rather than fact-check it simply repeated its false claims verbatim. According to reports, NPR has yet to retract or issue a correction to the story.

Rolling Stone also lied about ivermectin overdoses

As we reported, Rolling Stone did almost the exact same thing by lying about hospitals now being overrun with ivermectin overdose cases.

Similar to what the AP and NPR did with the Mississippi story, Rolling Stone falsely claimed that certain Oklahoma hospitals are having to turn away gunshot victims because all of their beds are currently being occupied by people who took horse de-wormer to try to cure the Fauci Flu.

It turns out that Rolling Stone completely made up the story based on lies told by an alleged doctor who does not even work at the hospital system named in the story.

In fact, in order to clear its name, that hospital system issued a statement emphasizing the fact that all is normal and that all patients are receiving the care they need. They had NO cases dealing with ivermectin. Probably no gunshot wounds either.

Ivermectin Derangement Syndrome is on the rise

Something about ivermectin really has the left in a tizzy, much like how these same folks responded to the Donald Trump presidency  this being the source of the term Trump Derangement Syndrome.

Now, instead of being deranged by Trump, the left is deranged by ivermectin. Perhaps it is time to pathologize this latest leftist derangement as Ivermectin Derangement Syndrome?

Many of the people who claim they want to save lives are almost violently opposed to the use of ivermectin, which is inexpensive, safe and effective (unlike the vaccines). Even though it continues to save lives in India, ivermectin is simply not welcome here in the United States because of these sheeple.

Instead, they would rather everyone wear a mask forever and take injection after injection of mystery chemicals, which do nothing to prevent either infection or spread.

At best, Chinese Virus shots minimize symptoms, though even this is now being called into question as hospitals everywhere become flooded with fully vaccinated patients who are manifesting extreme symptoms of the latest Wuhan Flu variants.

Ironically enough, nobody would be taking horse paste at all if the medical deep state would stop stonewalling access to the human stuff. Finding human-grade ivermectin has become so difficult that those who wish to use it are having to visit local feed stores for the horse variety  all because of Ivermectin Derangement Syndrome, or IDS.

Ivermectin is a simple drug, wrote one commenter at Infowars about how ivermectin actually works. All it does is prevent the spike protein from entering into any human cell. It sees the spike as a parasite, which it was originally designed to treat.

No one reads the corrections, wrote another about the worthlessness of article retractions once a fake news item has already spread. Theyre always buried deep where no one looks and they know it. Its too late because the damage is already done.

The latest news stories about Chinese Virus deception and the crusade against ivermectin can be found at Deception.news.

Sources for this article include:

Infowars.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Mark Finchem, a GOP candidate for secretary of state in Arizona, is calling on state lawmakers to decertify the 2020 election results due to the discovery of a massive number of ghost, or phony, votes.

Finchems demand stems from an interview Liz Harris, a volunteer taking part in Maricopa Countys ballot audit, did with Steve Bannon for his War Room podcast, in which she claimed that more than 96,300 mail-in ballots were sent from addresses that could not have possibly come from the person named on the ballot.

In taking to Twitter, Finchem first thanked former Trump 2020 campaign lawyers Rudy Giuliani and Jenna Ellis for traveling to Arizona last winter following the election to lay out the evidence of what was then suspected voter fraud in the state.

WE MUST AUDIT AND CANVASS EVERYWHERE. This fraud has been going on a lot longer than 2020, he began in a Twitter thread.

I am calling it. Between the preliminary audit results and the private canvass, I call on Arizona to decertify the election of 2020 and recall the electors. There is already enough evidence to show clear and convincing fraud. We have a duty to act, he continued.

Not only do we need a forensic audit of every county in Arizona, we need an official canvass of the election and of the voter rolls in every county in Arizona. If the DOJ wants to obstruct, they can pound sand, Finchem said.

Ghost votes, fantom votes 96,00+ from mail-in votes extrapolated from Maricopa #s. 1 Voter reports got a mail-in ballot every elec since 12. Ballots returned but counted? How did that get into the system? Data shows while she kept the ballot, it was counted. Where is DOJ? the secretary of state candidate added.

YOU WERE RIGHT! @RudyGiuliani @JennaEllisEsq So glad we gave you the chance to reveal the corruption on Nov 30, 20 in PHX. We must send a signal to the People of Arizona that we have the courage to decertify an election that is rife with fraud and reclaim the 2020 Electors, he wrote.

YOU WERE RIGHT! @RudyGiuliani @JennaEllisEsq So glad we gave you the chance to reveal the corruption on Nov 30, '20 in PHX. We must send a signal to the People of Arizona that we have the courage to decertify an election that is rife with fraud and reclaim the 2020 Electors.  Mark Finchem for AZ Secretary of State (@RealMarkFinchem) September 8, 2021

Ghost votes, fantom votes 96,00+ from "mail-in" votes extrapolated from Maricopa #'s. 1 Voter reports got a mail-in ballot every elec since '12. Ballots returned but counted? How did that get into the system? Data shows while she kept the ballot, it was counted. Where is DOJ?  Mark Finchem for AZ Secretary of State (@RealMarkFinchem) September 8, 2021

Not only do we need a forensic audit of every county in Arizona, we need an official canvass of the election and of the voter rolls in every county in Arizona. If the DOJ wants to obstruct, they can pound sand.  Mark Finchem for AZ Secretary of State (@RealMarkFinchem) September 8, 2021

I am calling it. Between the preliminary audit results and the private canvass, I call on Arizona to decertify the election of 2020 and recall the electors. There is already enough evidence to show clear and convincing fraud. We have a duty to act.  Mark Finchem for AZ Secretary of State (@RealMarkFinchem) September 8, 2021

WE MUST AUDIT AND CANVASS EVERYWHERE. This fraud has been going on a lot longer than 2020.  Mark Finchem for AZ Secretary of State (@RealMarkFinchem) September 8, 2021

Liz Harrington, the spokeswoman for former President Donald Trumps Save America PAC, also noted the findings in Twitter posts.

Canvassing Uncovers MAJOR Voting Discrepancies in Arizonahttps://t.co/T6Np3GD8rm  Liz Harrington (@realLizUSA) September 8, 2021

At the end of the day, you can only prop up a fraud so much. Joe Biden has been propped up by the Fake News, Big Tech, and Fake suppression polls, but you cant fool the American people! And we all know he didnt get 81 million votes! she wrote in another tweet along with a video clip of an interview she did with One America News.

At the end of the day, you can only prop up a fraud so much. Joe Biden has been propped up by the Fake News, Big Tech, and Fake suppression polls, but you can't fool the American people! And we all know he didn't get 81 million votes! pic.twitter.com/4zKlinIGNg  Liz Harrington (@realLizUSA) September 8, 2021

The Arizona audit has been ongoing for months  since the spring  and more people have been calling for the results, especially after we have already learned there was fraud involved.

Americans for Legal Immigration reported less than two weeks after the Nov. 3 election:

Even more evidence came in today, suggesting that illegal non-citizen predominantly Democrat voters are the biggest threat to the integrity of US elections, yet 99% of the American media remains silent.

A Republican Arizona state representative Kelly Townsend is warning the nation that there are 14,099 voters in Maricopa County alone who did not prove they are US citizens when registering to vote as required by a little known Arizona state law passed as Proposition 200 in 2004.

Its important to note that Biden only eked out a victory in Arizona by about 11,000 votes.

More evidence keeps rolling in that backs up our justified belief that the Democrat Party, trade unions, and Joe Biden campaign is winning the 2020 presidency due to widespread illegal non-citizen voters who vote Democrat more than 80% of the time, said William Gheen, a spokesperson for ALIPAC.us.

How much evidence and proof will it take for the media to finally report our concerns or for our government to take action to protect American voters from this overt foreign influence and overthrow of our elections?

Sources include:

NaturalNews.com

VoteFraud.news
(Natural News) Just a few hundred years ago, most of the people who fled Europe to come to America did so to avoid extreme government-sanctioned political, economic and religious persecution, so how many people will soon flee Melbourne, where if you dont get toxic injections mandated by the satanic government, soon you wont be able to work, find medical care or even buy food. Over 6.6 million people live in the state of Victoria, with the bulk of the populace in its massive capital city of Melbourne.

Currently, 70 percent of the population of Victoria is vaccinated, leaving 30 percent, or about 2 million people, with natural immunity and a much better chance of surviving and thriving through the Covid pandemic. Yet, those folks are about to be starved to death for not taking the government-mandated toxic spike protein injections, so they are being sentenced to slow-death for their crimes against the vaccine industry. Two million people. Thats about the same number of Jews who died in the Holocaust concentration camps by starvation, lack of medical care and toxic chemical ingestion. And that was just 80 years ago.

Victorian Premiere Dan Andrews employs Adolf Hitlers eugenics tactics

Draconian would be too nice of a way to describe the living conditions for Melbournes residents who are currently on total lockdown, except if youre vaccinated and going to work, to get food or to get a blood-clotting, gene mutation injection. Soon, if you deny the deadly Covid jabs, you will never get to leave your home, for anything, ever again, says Dan Andrews. He will lock you out of the economy. That means get the forced toxic injections or die where you live.

Hitler had the Jews injected with chemicals, including children, just to see how they reacted to different poisons, including insecticides, while Dr. Josef Mengele performed crazy surgeries that deformed and killed his medical experiment patients. It was forced medication with known toxins back then, just like the Covid vaccinations now, that contain or create billions of spike proteins that clog the vascular system and pollute the organs.

Spike protein injection worshipper Dan Andrews informs the unvaccinated they will be denied all medical care and starved to death soon: There is going to be a vaccinated economy, and you get to participate in that if you are vaccinated,  Were going to move to a situation where, to protect the health system, we are going to lock out people who are not vaccinated and can be.

Lockdowns are not enough, the citizens who deny toxic injections must be starved to death, according to Draconian Dan

If youre healthy and you exercise and enjoy natural immunity, not really afraid of the common cold or the flu, you are now being sentenced to death in Victoria by Draconian Dan, the Emperor of the Demonic Vaccine Empire in the Land Down Under. In order to protect the profits of the evil vaccine industry and health system, Draconian Dan has his people locked down.

He says that to deny poisonous injections is the wrong choice, and you must pay for that wrong choice by losing your job, your medical care and your right to shop for food. Many doctors are already denying care to the unvaccinated, healthy people of Victoria. But wait, it gets worse.

One Australian man reportedly coughed in an elevator, and is now being hunted down by the government as a COVID protocol-defying terrorist. The man had taken a fake PCR test two weeks earlier that showed he tested positive for something, which could have been a head cold or the flu, but it was labeled Covid, of course. Now that man could  apparently  wipe out the entire population of Earth all on his own, so the hunt is on.

Its the new War on Terror in the Land Down Under, where the unvaccinated are terrorists trying to kill the vaccinated by breathing in public. Somehow, now, vaccines must only work if everyone gets them. This elevator coughing terrorist must not know this.

Tune your truth news dial to Pandemic.news for updates on the war against dirty vaccines and socialism, and how to keep your family happy, healthy and safe.

Sources for this article include:

Pandemic.news

NaturalNews.com

TruthWiki.org

NaturalNews.com

NationalFile.com

ZeroHedge.com
(Natural News) The tiny Central American nation of El Salvador saw a rocky start on its first day of adopting the bitcoin cryptocurrency as legal tender. The country passed a law in June 2021 mandating its use as legal currency alongside the U.S. dollar. But the first day of the rollout on Sept. 7 hit a roadblock after many people tried to download the Chivo e-wallet, forcing authorities to take the app down for a few hours.

Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele announced plans to allocate more than $225 million to roll out the government-run Chivo e-wallet, which can be used to purchase things in bitcoin or U.S. dollars. Citizens who sign up for Chivo were set to receive bitcoin credit worth $30. Aside from this, Bukeles administration also announced plans to implement a network of 200 bitcoin ATMs. A chain of Chivo kiosks at plazas around the country to introduce Salvadorians to cryptocurrency were also included in the plan.

However, the Chivo e-wallet remained unavailable on major app stores during the early hours of Sept. 7. A number of Salvadorians took to social media to lament the difficulties they encountered as soon as it showed up on app stores. They were unable to sign up for the wallet using their phone numbers or official IDs. On the other hand, many citizens posted images of establishments, such as McDonalds and Pizza Hut, accepting bitcoin as payment.

Meanwhile, the Chivo kiosk at the Antiguo Cuscatlan square in the capital San Salvador saw little activity on the first day of the rollout. A team of young people in charge of promoting Chivo anxiously stared at their mobile phones as some residents inquired about the e-wallet.

Sixty-one-year-old Luis Aleman told the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that he plans to use Chivo to receive remittances from his children based in the U.S. He added that he hopes to save on fees charged by other companies when he remits money using the app. There are always glitches, but these problems dont mean anything. One more day of waiting doesnt affect me, he said.

Jose Luis Guillen, the founder of Central American foreign exchange platform Coincaex, said of El Salvadors bitcoin rollout: We are very eager to see how the ecosystem develops. Blockchain.com Head of Research Garrick Hileman meanwhile described the Central American countrys adoption of cryptocurrency as a pretty monumental step in the evolution of bitcoin. (Related: El Salvador becomes first country to adopt bitcoin as legal tender.)

Not everyone welcomed bitcoin with open arms

However, Bukeles decision to make bitcoin legal tender in El Salvador faced criticism from both academics and regular citizens. Central American Institute for Financial Studies Senior Economist Ricardo Castaneda warned: The [Salvadorian] government is betting more than $200 million in a virtual casino, and thats taxpayer money.

Clothing store owner Jorge Hasbun told WSJ that he was startled upon hearing the announcement. The head of the El Salvador Chamber of Commerce and Industry said the initiative was rushed without consultation with stakeholders or the private sector. Furthermore, he added that regulations disclosed at the last minute had been insufficient.

Hasbun said: If a client comes to pay with bitcoin, Im not ready. We could have ridden that wave in a positive way, but the way the law was imposed wasnt positive.

The first day of the bitcoin rollout also saw protests held in front of the Salvadorian Ministry of Finance, Al Jazeera reported. Marvin Rivera, a student at the University of El Salvador, said: I want to be clear that I dont oppose Bitcoin. What we are against is the process that has happened and that we never had any say in this.

Another student, Daniela Romero, said her concern about the volatility of cryptocurrencies joined the Sept. 7 protest. She explained: If we dont understand Bitcoin, then people will lose money when the price drops. We need a lot more education, or people will be taken advantage of.

Students were not only the ones who opposed El Salvadors use of cryptocurtency. Veterans from the countrys civil war that lasted from 1979 to 1992 protested in August to demand pension benefits and assurances that these would not be denominated in bitcoin.

Fifty-six-year old Jose Alberto Amaya, a former military officer, said bitcoin is for countries with more advanced techonology and stronger economies. Meanwhile, former rebel Juan Manuel Pineda described the adoption of bitcoin as a wild economic adventure. He asked: How are we going to use bitcoin if we dont even have a smartphone, or the money to have internet access?

Pinedas opposition to bitcoin carried some weight as the technology needed for cryptocurrency remained out of reach for poor Salvadorians. Reuters reported that nearly half of El Salvadors population has no access to the internet, with many more having spotty connectivity. Sweets seller Jose Herrera, who had trouble accessing a mobile phone, said: Im going to continue suffering with or without bitcoin.

Oswaldo Serrano, who owns online pet food delivery service Smart Pet SV, brought up possible privacy concerns arising from the use of the Chivo e-wallet. You hand over all your data to the government, your financial movements, what goes out and what goes in, he said.

According to Salvadorian officials, bitcoins adoption would lead to affordable financial services in the country. However, a survey by the Universidad Centroamericana Jose Simeon Canas in early September 2021 found that more than 65 percent of citizens do not want the government to spend tax dollars on adopting bitcoin. Moreover, the same poll found that 80 percent have little to no confidence in bitcoin. (Related: Bitcoin payments now so SLOW and expensive that a prominent Bitcoin conference has stopped accepting Bitcoin for payment.)

BitcoinCollapse.news has more articles about El Salvadors adoption of bitcoin as legal tender.

Sources include:

WSJ.com

AlJazeera.com

Reuters.com
(Natural News) Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher has called on White House Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci to resign or be fired for lying to the American public about the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19).

Gallagher, who has represented Wisconsins eighth congressional district since 2017, believes the nations supposed top infectious disease expert lied about how the United States government supported gain-of-function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) in China.

The representatives accusation comes after documents obtained by The Intercept show that the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), which Fauci leads, funded experiments at the WIV that make coronaviruses more pathogenetic than the original virus. (Related: Fauci bioweapons funding CONFIRMED, smoking gun proves covid vaccines based on govt biowarfare program.)

Fauci repeatedly lied about the US supporting coronavirus experiments in Wuhan

On May 12, I argued that Dr. Fauci had not been forthcoming about the U.S. governments support for gain-of-function research at the WIV. These documents are a smoking gun that indicate he not only failed to be forthcoming, but that he also lied to the American people about his organizations support for this risky research, said Gallagher in a statement released on Wednesday, Sept. 8.

Thanks to the grant reports written by Peter Daszak, we now know that U.S. taxpayer dollars supported research that made a virus at the WIV stronger than the original, naturally-occurring virus. This meets the very threshold for gain-of-function research that Dr. Fauci outlined in a letter to me in July, continued Gallaghers statement.

He has repeatedly lied before Congress and the American people and should immediately resign. But his resignation is not enough. Congress must also conduct a thorough investigation into this research and the way in which these grants were issued to ensure no bureaucrat is able to hide behind lawyerly definitions and skirt regulations like this again, concluded the statement.

In an appearance on Fox News on Tuesday, Gallagher reiterated his support for Fauci resigning or being fired. He said the fact that the doctor still has a job is an affront to the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have suffered, if not died under coronavirus.

The representative also denounced how mainstream media outlets in the U.S. uncritically accepted Fauci and others denunciations of the lab leak theory. He said the media has acted as useful idiots for the Chinese Communist Party. And theyre afraid to admit that they were wrong, he said.

Gallagher even pointed out that Fauci recently conducted an interview with mainstream media outlet CNN. This interview did not ask Fauci about The Intercepts report even though it occurred after the results of the investigation were published.

Because the entire media has gone hook, line and sinker for this narrative, said Gallagher. We had scientists who had profound conflicts of interest, who were writing letters telling everybody this didnt come from a lab, and the media went for it.

Gallagher said that Fauci should, at a minimum, step down from his positions as the director of NIAID and as chief medical advisor to the White House. He then insisted that there should be a full and transparent investigation to figure out the complex web of U.S. taxpayer dollars that have funded gain-of-function research in China and other parts of the world.

Fauci has acknowledged that the NIAID and the National Institutes of Health had provided funding to the Wuhan lab. But he has repeatedly denied that the money was used to support gain-of-function research on coronaviruses.

That categorically was not done, said Fauci back in May when first confronted with these claims.

In a July letter addressed to Gallagher, which was written as a reply to one of the congressmans earlier letters, Fauci said the NIAID-funded studies at the WIV did not propose to manipulate the viruses in a way that would increase transmissibility or pathogenicity.

Learn more about how Fauci and other high-ranking officials and public health experts helped cover up COVID-19s true origins by reading the latest articles at Pandemic.news.

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

FoxNews.com

Gallagher.House.gov
(Natural News) Mark Grenon currently sits in a jail cell in the La Picota prison in Bogota, Colombia. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) had Grenon, the head of the Florida-based Genesis II church, arrested for promoting chlorine dioxide as a lifesaving, affordable treatment for the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) and other diseases.

Fortunately, Grenon has been able to maintain contact with the outside world, allowing him to talk about his plight.

In this new episode of the Health Ranger Report on Brighteon.TV, Mike Adams the Health Ranger is able to talk to Grenon, via prison phone, about why hes become a medical-political prisoner as well as how the FDA and other authorities are trying to shut down the truth about COVID-19 and treatments to fight it.

Watch the full episode below or on Brighteon.TV.

A medical-political prisoner of the FDA

Talking with Grenon, Adams has the preacher turned medical-political prisoner explain how and why he was arrested in the first place. Grenon explains how, when the COVID-19 pandemic started, he had started receiving multiple testimonies about the effectiveness of chlorine dioxide as a treatment for diseases, including COVID-19.

Adams explains that he himself also uses chlorine dioxide, taking it for things such as sore throat or some fatigue.

But thats just my own personal experience, Adams adds. I dont sell it obviously and I dont make claims.

Its the claims about chlorine dioxide that Grenon made that got him in trouble with the FDA. (Related: Chlorine dioxide to treat COVID? YES, says Dr. Manuel Aparicio.)

The FDA would say that youve been making unproven claims about it that it could cure COVID or could cure cancer and so on, and that you dont have the hard data to back that up, Adams points out. You may have, you know, anecdotal evidence, testimonials, lets say, but you dont have the hard evidence to back it up.

To this, Grenon points out that there are thousands of patents for chlorine dioxide, including some that are for medical use, as well as in food processing.

Well, first of all, [there are] over 30,000 patents for chlorine dioxide, and some of them are medical use some of them, cancer, malaria, they use in food processing, Grenon explains. Its been proven in clinical studies that physiologically it does no damage. Its non-toxic to the human body, especially at the PPMs (parts per million) that we use.

Grenon then goes on to point out how chlorine dioxide isnt the only potential treatment for COVID-19 that the FDA and the medical establishment have tried to crush. He brings up ivermectin, the anti-parasitic that has shown to have promise when it comes to treating the disease.

The medical establishment is also trying to crush ivermectin, which is an FDA-approved prescription drug for humans, and theyre trying to crush that because its off-patent.

Building the case for chlorine dioxide

Going back to chlorine dioxide, Grenon explains that many doctors outside the U.S. have actually been using it to treat COVID-19.

Theres 5,000 doctors in 25 countries that have come forward that are exclusively using it for COVID, he points out. Bolivia has made it legal for COVID. Okay, so everything that weve stated is proven in clinical studies. They have nothing.  (Related: Infection prevention: Police officers in Peru use chlorine dioxide to sanitize and protect against coronavirus.)

They have no evidence against us whatsoever that it does any damage to the human body, that it doesnt work.

Grenon also mentions that recent clinical studies have proved that chlorine dioxide cures diseases. Included in this was one study he and his church did in Uganda where it was shown to work against malaria, removing all trace of the parasite that causes the disease from a patients blood within four hours.

The study was even done with local Red Cross people. However, the international Red Cross has denied their claims, this was despite Grenon having video evidence of their work.

Despite this setback, Grenon has continued to fight for chlorine dioxide. This continued fight eventually led to the FDA going after him. In April, Grenon and three of his sons were indicted by a grand jury in Miami, leading to his incarceration in Bogota, where he awaits extradition alongside his sons Joseph. The two other sons, Jordan and Jonathan are in jail in Miami.

Should the medical establishment have its way, Grenon and his sons face lengthy jail sentences, all for trying to promote a possible alternative treatment for a deadly disease.

For more on Mark Grenon and the truth about COVID-19, watch the Health Ranger Report live, Mondays through Fridays at 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Brighteon.TV.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

APNews.com
(Natural News) There were rumors in the summer of 2018 that an audiotape was circulating that would send shockwaves through the think tanks of Washington and the conservative intellectual movement in particular. A top Google executive had been recorded telling his fellow employees that Google generously donated to conservative think tanks and magazines to dampen criticism of their anti-conservative bias. In essence, Google was buying off Conservatism Inc. and the GOP establishment to stay silent while Google monitored, harassed, and excluded Trump supporters. If true, the tape sounded like a smoking gun: incontrovertible evidence of the corruption and double-dealing of Conservatism Inc. that would permanently discredit it with Republican voters.

(Article republished from Emeralddb3.Substack.com)

I was told that the tape had been offered as an exclusive to the Wall Street Journal. Months went by, and nothing happened. (There were rumors during that time that Big Tech lobbyists were trying very hard to get the Wall Street Journal to kill the story.) Then I began to get a series of messages from various anonymous sources that the organizations that were guilty of taking Google money to stay silent included: the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), the Cato Institute, CPAC, the Weekly Standard and the National Review. (A weak article appeared on September 27th by John McKinnon in the Wall Street Journal but it hardly mentioned the tape or its implications.) This was, needless to say, a huge story: was it possible that the entire conservative intellectual movement was being bought off by Big Tech companies?

Finally, I was approached by an insider at one of the think tanks who confirmed the main details. You could say I broke the story (since the Wall Street Journal piece had really buried it) on Twitter on October 30th, by saying:

BREAKING: Source tells me that NeverTrumper mags took cash from top Internet company to suppress stories of bias against conservatives & Trump supporters. Audio recording of top tech executive explaining strategy has leaked to major newspaper.

My hope was that it would shake the Wall Street Journal out of its lethargy: either publish the contents of the tape or let someone else use it. It would also sow panic among the guilty  who would want to get out ahead of the story in order to spin it. So it was not surprising that one of the first people to attack my story was Jonah Goldberg, one of the chief editors of the National Review. (Its important to note that my tweet had not named his magazine as one of the guilty parties.) Goldberg was dismissive of my reporting on Twitter: LOL. Love the idea you have sources.

Jonah Goldberg had, once again, given himself up at the first sign of shooting.

On December 10th, Wired magazine ran a big piece describing the leaked Google audio tape and its significance:

The recording also offers candid insight into Googles efforts to stop or water down two then-pending pieces of legislation, most notably a bill aimed at inhibiting sex trafficking that also removed some protections shielding internet companies from liability for the content on their platforms. Weve worked really hard behind the scenes for the last nine months to try to modify that bill, to slow it down, said [Google Director of U.S. Policy] Kovacevich.

On December 13th, Allum Bokhari at Breitbart also ran a piece which did not mince words about what Googles money had paid for:

Audio recordings obtained by Wired reveal that Google cooperates with and funds a range of establishment conservatives in D.C. that help it fend off scrutiny and oversight from politicians. The organizations named in Wireds report are the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), the Competitive Enterprise Institute (CEI), and the Cato Institute. []

One of the Google-funded think tanks had its pro-Google op-ed published by National Review. Now the story had legs. It was running on multiple outlets, and it was taking off. It also looked like none of the guilty organizations were going to acknowledge the story or issue a public statement about it. They were so high and mighty and corrupt that they were going to stay silent to weather the storm of bad publicity. So on December 14th, I ran another tweet to bait the line:

It looks like conservative mag National Review was taking Google cash too. To suppress conservative speech on social media. Was this something that @NRO donors & contributors knew was taking place? Lets ask @JonahNRO @DavidAFrench & others today.

Do I even need to tell you who swallowed the hook and started screaming? On December 18th, Goldberg did another piece attacking me and the Google story. This article was called Emerald Robinsons Stupid Lies and it opened with the usual kill the messenger non-denials:

One of the problems with the political moment were in is that there are powerful incentives for people to be stupid and dishonest. The ingredients of this imperfect storm include: a populist climate where nearly all institutions are distrusted, appeals to feelings of persecution will be richly rewarded, political principle for many people is measured by blind loyalty to (or hatred for) a particular personality, stirring controversy is valued regardless of whether there is sufficient evidence to support an allegation or clickbaity innuendo, and conspiracy is counted as courage. All of this leads to a kind of socially constructed garbage heap that will either attract flies, vermin, and other scavengers, or turn people into them. This was the story of Milo before his self-immolation. This is the story of Infowars and Gateway Pundit. And it is the story of the failed-actress-turned-faux journalist Emerald Robinson. Now, there are only two possibilities here: Either Robinson is an idiot or she thinks her fans are. The sum total of her evidence that NR took Google cash to suppress conservative views comes from a Breitbart story about a Wired story. Heres the gist: Google gave money to CEI, where Iain Murray works. Iain wrote a piece for us in which he disagreed with a New York Times writer who thinks the government should break up big tech firms, including Google. And . . . thats it.

You see, dear reader, its not that the editors of the magazine got caught taking dirty money to hurt their fellow conservatives, its the crazy people who report this stuff! This opening amounted to almost a blanket denial that the National Review had actually taken any Google money at all. Realizing at some point that this was, in fact, not true, Goldberg slipped into the second to last paragraph the following confession:

I learned that Google gave some money to the National Review Institute for the Buckley Prize dinner only because I asked about it this week (something Robinson could have learned were she an actual reporter of some kind, rather than a MAGA infomercial hostess). But that just proves my point: No one is telling anyone what to write or not write. This is a joke.

So to sum up Jonahs defense: first, its absurd to think that any money changed hands, but yes money did change hands, but nobody could possible think that such money influenced what we wrote! The problem for Jonah Goldberg was that, actually, I did have an insider at his magazine who confirmed that National Review editors declined to publish anti-Google articles. I sent Jonah a note telling him that the problem for you is that I do have evidence. I added that my source would be happy to come forward and publicly identify himself if Goldberg or anyone else at the National Review wanted to continue denying the story.

Read more at: Emeralddb3.Substack.com and EvilGoogle.news
(Natural News) American gun rights groups have warned for years that the very first step ahead of gun confiscation is gun registration because after all, the government has to know whats out there in private hands before it imposes a mandate to turn them in or risk being shot and killed under the guise of justice.

But for just as long, even left-wing presidents like Bill Clinton and Barack Obama have shunned any attempt to create gun registration schemes.

That is all changing under Joe Bidens regime.

The Marxists who are calling the shots have convinced Biden to join the United Nations global gun registration treaty  and since its a treaty, if its ratified by the Senate, that becomes the law of our land, too.

The Washington Examiner reported this week:

The Biden administration this week signaled that it is eyeing a United Nations small arms treaty that critics claim will lead to an international gun registration plan  including for individual American gun owners.

Two years after former President Donald Trump withdrew from it, a top arms diplomat at the State Department told the global body that the current administration is swinging behind the Arms Trade Treaty.

I have come from Washington, D.C., this week to take the floor on the agenda item Treaty Universalization to underscore the continuing commitment of the United States to responsible international trade in conventional arms, William Malzahn said at the 7th Conference of States Parties to the Arms Trade Treaty.

The United States has long supported strong and effective national controls on the international transfer of conventional arms, and the Arms Trade Treaty is an important tool [for] promoting those controls internationally, he added, according to a transcript provided to the Washington Examiners Secrets column by the lobbying wing of the National Rifle Association.

Mindful that the tyranno-crats running the asylum known as the White House these days wont simply go for the gusto and implement full-bore registration right away, the NRA went on to note that this will all be done incrementally, the way the left always circumvents the Constitution.

The NRA has warned that, among many moves, the treaty will require all arms that Americans buy from overseas makers to be tracked. To do that, a global gun registry would be created and maintained for 10 years. Every owner will be listed on that registry, the Examiner added.

The nations oldest gun rights group warned: This is the first step towards creating a global firearms registry, adding, President Biden wants to give foreign bureaucrats control over the rights of law-abiding Americans, and the NRA will fight it every step of the way.

This is the first step towards creating a global firearms registry. President Biden wants to give foreign bureaucrats control over the rights of law-abiding Americans, and the NRA will fight it every step of the way. Stay tuned. (3/3)  NRA (@NRA) September 1, 2021

Malzahn said in his statement that the Biden regime is reviewing and working on strengthening the Conventional Arms Transfer Policy that of course guides the transfer policies of all guns.

The new CAT Policy will better frame the intent and priorities of the Biden/Harris administration and formalize the approach of the administration as adopted on arms transfer decisions that have been in effect since President Biden entered the White House in January, he said, according to the transcript.

The revised CAT Policy should be finalized shortly and released as a public document. When it is, the United States will then use that policy framework to review specific arms transfer issues, including determining the proper relationship of the United States to the Arms Trade Treaty, he added.

The Biden regime is simply picking up where left-wing Democrats left off after Obama was replaced by Trump, only this time they plan to really move the ball down the confiscation field. And theyre going to use a globalist organization to do it.

This would be a line in the sand for American patriots who know that the Second Amendment is the only one protecting the remainder of our Bill of Rights.

Sources include:

WashingtonExaminer.com

NewsTarget.com
(Natural News) A Vietnam War veteran is dead after a Texas hospital refused, in flagrant defiance of a court order, to give him ivermectin for a Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) infection.

On August 19, Pete Lopez, 74, was put on a ventilator by medical staff at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital near Houston after testing positive for Chinese Germs. Lopez might have lived had he been given ivermectin in accordance with his wishes, but was instead murdered by workers at the hospital who refused.

Because of their Ivermectin Derangement Syndrome (IDS), hospital staff at Memorial Hermann decided that they would basically just pull the plug on Lopez because that is what Tony Fauci and the medical establishment has decided is the only way to flatten the curve.

The American Medical Association (AMA) decided that even though ivermectin has been FDA-approved for humans since 1996, it is now just a horse de-wormer that should not and cannot be administered to sick and dying people, even if it could save their lives.

Texas medical workers, desperately wanting to be medically woke, in turn decided to just go along with the AMAs advice and deprive Lopez of something that very well could have saved his life.

[Memorial Hermann] took away from my grandfather and us, his family, the opportunity to know whether or not that drug would have worked for him, mourned Gabrielle Snider, Lopezs granddaughter.

Ivermectin Derangement Syndrome is needlessly killing Americans

A similar situation occurred in Ohio after a man named Jeffery Smith was admitted to a local hospital and was refused ivermectin treatment. Smiths family sued the West Chester Hospital and won, only to have Common Pleas Judge Michael Oster try to overrule the decision.

Public policy should not and does not support allowing a physician to try any type of treatment on human beings, Oster decreed, falsely suggesting that ivermectin is only for livestock and not humans.

It is like banging ones head against the wall trying to set the record straight that ivermectin is fully FDA-approved for humans. The prevailing narrative right now is that it is a dangerous horse paste that is not for human intake, which is patently false.

Whether or not ivermectin works for treating the Fauci Flu in humans is beside the point. The fact of the matter is that it is FDA-approved for humans and just like all other drugs, it can and should be administered for off-label use when a patient or doctor chooses it for such.

Since when did government bureaucrats gain total control over what types of medicines are allowed to be administered to sick and dying patients? Did Judge Oster suddenly become a licensed doctor? If not, why is he now practicing medicine from the bench without a proper license?

The good news in Smiths case is that he technically won the case and did receive ivermectin, which worked so well that the hospital decided that he can soon be taken off the ventilator and sent home.

Julie has won this case; I dont care what this judge says, said one of the Smith familys lawyers, Ralph Lorigo. We are believers hes going to survive because of ivermectin.

On Friday, the Texas Medical Board and the Texas State Board of Pharmacy together issued a joint statement supporting the right of all physicians to prescribe drugs like ivermectin for off-label use, which has been common practice for decades.

Both boards clearly indicated that they do not endorse or prohibit any particular prescribed drugs or treatment for COVID-19 that meet the standard of care.

The latest news about Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) tyranny can be found at Fascism.news.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) In India, an India Bar Associations (IBA) lawsuit against World Health Organization (WHO) Chief Scientist of India Soumya Swaminathan continues to move forward, charging her with murder and other crimes that could result in life imprisonment or even the death penalty.

If you missed it, Swaminathan was served with a lawsuit back in May for her contributions to dissuading the use of ivermectin in the treatment of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19).

Swaminathan is accused of lying about ivermectin in an effort to keep it out of the hands of sick people. The IBA says Swaminathans words and behavior concerning ivermectin were extremely unreasonable, describing them as having another purpose besides trying to help people.

The IBA is calling for the invocation of articles 302, 304 (paragraph 2), and 88 of the Indian Penal Code against Swaminathan. Should she be convicted, Swaminathan could be put to death for her alleged crimes.

On May 25, the IBA issued a statement accusing Swaminathan of initiating a false propaganda campaign against ivermectin and inducing the public to refuse to use ivermectin to treat the Chinese Virus.

About two weeks prior to the suit, Indias Health Ministry approved an ivermectin-based Fauci Flu treatment regimen that recommended all residents 18 years of age and older take five ivermectin tablets daily. The stated purpose for this was to keep people from developing potentially fatal high fevers.

After the Health Ministry introduced the new policy, Swaminathan freaked out and issued a statement on behalf of the WHO claiming that the United Nations public health arm does not recommend the use of ivermectin in the treatment of Chinese Germs.

WHOs essential medications list includes ivermectin

As it turns out, Swaminathans claim is false. The WHO actually does recommend the use of ivermectin in its essential medications list. The inventors of ivermectin were also awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2015 for developing the drug.

Your misleading tweet against the use of ivermectin on May 10 this year led to the exclusion of ivermectin from the coronavirus treatment regimen in Tamil Nadu on May 11, despite the fact that this drug was previously a treatment on the drug list, the IBA wrote in its legal statement against Swaminathan.

The world has gradually realized that you use the scientific method to describe fabricated facts. This method is absurd, arbitrary, and ridiculous. The WHO claims to be omniscient, but this is like a vain emperor wearing his new clothes, and the whole world only now knows that the emperor is wearing no clothes at all.

In a separate statement IBA legal team head Dipala Ojha promised that the legal statement against Swaminathan is only the first step. More is coming that aims to put her away for life, he threatened.

The action of deleting the tweet just proved her maliciousness, the IBA wrote on its website about Swaminathans attempted coverup of her actions. Deleting this tweet will not save her and her colleagues. We will support citizens to initiate litigation for her criminal actions.

In its own statement, the WHO responded that its members regret this alleged unprovoked attack on Swaminathan, who is regarded as a senior WHO official. Swaminathan has been with the WHO since March 2019.

It is exceptionally rare that high-level government officials ever get punished for something, so Swaminathan must have done something pretty threatening to now be targeted like this.

The untrustworthy, unelected officials who advise against ivermectin are in regulatory capture,' wrote one commenter at Natural News. This happens when the regulator (FDA / NIH / NHS etc.) is compromised by the corporations they are meant to regulate.

More related news stories about Chinese Virus drama can be found at Pandemic.news.

Sources for this article include:

AmericasFrontlineDoctors.org

NaturalNews.com
Officials say the Dixie Fire in northern California could earn the position of the largest wildfire ever recorded in the state.

Dixie Fire

It has consumed 917,579 acres and as of Tuesday, it was just 59% contained. Presently, August Complex is the largest fire by acreage for the state and has burned about 1,032,648 acres last year.

According to Cal Fire, the Dixie Fire began on the 14th of July and has ruined or destroyed not less than 1,282 structures. Out of the 20 leading largest wildfires since 1932, 17 have taken place since 2000; since 2016 11 has occured; five in 2020 and three from 2021.

Chief Thom Porter from Cal Fire said: "For September through December the entire state shows drier, more wind events, and large fire activity to continue for the next three months."

Over the weekend, California's firefighters made remarkable progress against the Caldor Fire, and this made officials downgrade some evacuation orders in the Lake Tahoe area.

The Caldor Fire had burned 216,646 acres close to the California-Nevada border as of Tuesday morning. The fires are 49% contained about three weeks following its start on the 14th of August, Cal Fire said.

Also Read: Dixie Fire: Catastrophic California Wildfire Burning for 22 Days Leaves Town in Ruins

Caldor Fire

Though still massive, the Caldor fire's growth reduced its intensity over the weekend, adding only about 842 acres within the 24-hour period between the night of Friday and Saturday, per an analysis of fire information for CNN.

That's different from its serious beginning when the flame got so intense to the extent it affected almost 100,000 acres in its first week.

Cal Fire said since the Caldor Fire kicked off, it has destroyed over 990 structures, affecting businesses, homes, and other buildings. Over 27,000 structures are vulnerable.

Close to a week after thousands in the resort town obstructed roadways when authorities said they should relocate since flames were rapidly spreading into the location, evacuation orders for the city of South Lake Tahoe were lowered to evacuation warnings.

Visitors and residents were permitted to go back to their houses over the weekend.

Evacuation Order s

As per Cal Fire, other portions of El Dorado County noticed their evacuation orders lowered to a warning Saturday, and other warnings were no longer in effect.

Places that stayed under an evacuation order include the areas of Fallen Leaf Lake, Meyers, Christmas Valley, and North Upper Truckee. Three new wildfires began Sunday in California as fire officials noticed progress in the Caldor Fire.

In Amador County, close to the place the Caldor Fire is active, the Lawrence Fire increased to 46 acres, engulfing brush, timber, and grass, Cal Fire said.

The fire triggered road closures for a little time and also evacuations as it puts a handful of structures at risk, but firefighters succeeded in quickly reducing the threat. As of Monday, the Lawrence Fire was about 90% contained.

Related Article: California's Devastating Dixie Fire Now 2nd Largest Wildfire in State's History

For more news, updates about wildfires and similar topics don't forget to follow Nature World News!
On Tuesday, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Acapulco, Mexico, at 8:47 p.m. local time, rocking parts of southern Mexico and knocking out electricity.

As the earthquake rumbled, power flashes lit up the night sky, leaving portions of the Acapulco area without electricity. In addition, it was claimed that phone lines and electrical cables had been damaged. Tlatelolco, Mexico, also had some outages. Around 1.6 million people were without electricity across five states in Mexico as of Tuesday night, with 13 percent of inhabitants in Mexico City experiencing disruptions due to the earthquake.

The quake impacted places more than 230 miles away from its epicenter, including Mexico City. As the earthquake rocked the region, residents were stuck aboard a swaying cable bus in the rain.

In the event of a collapse, people flooded the streets of these cities, and buildings were evacuated. Helicopters soared above Mexico City in search of damage to the city's infrastructure.

Fearing the Aftershocks

Hector Astudillo Flores, the governor of Guerrero, Mexico, expressed worry that aftershocks will continue and aggravate the damage. In Coyuca de Benitez, Mexico, at least one person has died due to a fallen pole. In Pino Suarez, Mexico, another guy died of heart arrest.

A 4.9 magnitude aftershock occurred to the northwest of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Acapulco. A total of 92 aftershocks were reported on Tuesday night, according to the Sismologico Nacional.

Related Article: Europe's Most Active Volcano Shows Eruptive Episodes as Earthquake Hits Mt. Etna

Gas Leaks

There have been "several gas leaks in numerous areas," according to Acapulco Mayor Adela Roman, as well as landslides and fallen walls, according to television news source Milenio.

Weather Patterns

According to the US Tsunami Warning System, a brief tsunami hazard connected with this quake late Tuesday night for sections of Mexico's coastline. As of Wednesday morning, the threat has gone. There were no dangers to Japan's and the Philippines' coasts.

"The following several days will showcase a classic July pattern in the Mexico City region, with afternoon pop-up thunderstorms," said meteorologist Alex DaSilva.

Rains are anticipated to fade in Mexico City through Tuesday night, but showers and thunderstorms are predicted to resume in Mexico City and Acapulco on Wednesday.

"Anyone helping with the earthquake cleaning should keep a watch out for these pop-up afternoon storms," DaSilva warned.

Mexican Seismic Activity

According to seismic sensors, the earthquake was shallow, originating at a depth of roughly 12.5 miles under the city of Acapulco.

Thrust faulting on the subduction zone, where the Cocos plate dives down into the mantle beneath North America and Central America, caused the earthquake. Large earthquakes are prevalent in the area. This earthquake struck at a section of the Middle America subduction zone that is considered capable of producing earthquakes of magnitude eight or more but hasn't seen one since 1911.

Also Read: How Iceland's Newest Volcano Provides Crucial Data About Mars

For more news updates about what's happening to our environment, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
According to new research, the bulk of fossil fuels, such as oil, gas, and coal, 'must not be mined' by 2050 if the globe is to stay below 2.7F (1.5C).

This is the greatest yearly average temperature increase that experts believe the planet can withstand while reducing the danger of climate change's most catastrophic impacts.

Forecasted Temperature Rise

According to climate projections, global average temperatures would rise 5.22 degrees Fahrenheit (2.9 degrees Celsius) by 2100.

As a result, a team from University College London examined temperature rises under several scenarios depending on the amount of fossil fuels exploited up to 2050.

Related Article: OPEC Member Calls for Change, Urges Oil Producers to Invest More on Renewable Energy



Global Fuel Policy

To meet the lower 2.7F (1.5C) objective, they discovered that roughly 60% of present oil and fossil methane gas reserves, as well as 90% of coal reserves, should be kept buried.

According to the experts, this would necessitate major policy changes worldwide, including a move away from fossil fuel usage and production.

Fuel Supply

The world isn't running out of fossil fuels, according to Frank Jotzo of the Australian National University, who was not part of this study, but rather alternatives for their waste product, carbon dioxide, and what to do with it to limit climate change.

'Policies to limit production and lower demand will be required to persuade farmers to reconsider their output,' they added.

Fossil fuels are responsible for 81% of world energy use.

However, to reach global climate change targets, their production and consumption must drastically decrease.

According to a 2015 Nature study, a third of oil reserves, half of the gas reserves, and over 80% of coal reserves should be left unused by 2050 to keep global warming below 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Based on earlier research, Dan Welsby and colleagues calculated the fraction of fossil fuels that must be left in the ground to keep global warming below 2.7F (1.5C).

According to them, a significant expansion in non-extractable fossil fuel reserves is necessary.

Fuel Production Rate

They added that this is especially true for oil, where an additional 25% of reserves must remain in the ground compared to 2015 projections.

The authors also discovered that the global reduction in oil and gas output necessary by 2050 means that several locations would reach their production peaks in the next decade.

Peak production is when fossil fuel extraction achieves its maximum level ever - in the past or the future - and is viewed as a forerunner of humanity's transition away from fossil fuels.

They added that many planned oil projects would be rendered unviable if peak production occurred in less than a decade rather than in the following decades.

Alternative Energy

Nuclear power, solar power, ethanol, and wind power are the primary alternatives to oil and gas energy. Fossil fuels still outnumber these alternatives in global and local energy markets, but there is significant public pressure to expand their use as businesses transition toward sustainability and greener business practices.

More than 80% of overall energy consumption in the United States is accounted for by fossil fuels, consisting of coal, oil, propane, and natural gas. However, alternative energy sources have so far proved to be uneconomical replacements for fossil fuels; they are inefficient and expensive (or, in the case of nuclear power, entirely banned from increasing) than fossil fuels. As a result, the government now offers various subsidies to customers who opt for cleaner renewable energy sources for their homes or cars.

As more research and development is done in this area, and supply and demand principles of economics finally drive costs down to be competitive with traditional fossil fuels, the number of oil alternatives is growing.

Also Read: Can Climate Change Drive Humanity to Extinction?

For more news about making the environment sustainable, don't forget to follow Nature World News!




Mindy's moisture plume will contribute to soaking showers and thunderstorms throughout the southeastern United States through Friday.

Downpours can be intense and persistent, dumping 3-6 inches of rain and causing flash floods in some areas by the end of the week. Rainfall levels will be in the range of 1-2 inches over the country.

Flooding is expected to continue through Friday in the metro regions of Tallahassee and Jacksonville, Florida, Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina.

Thankfully, most of the rain will fall east of the areas of Louisiana impacted hardest by Hurricane Ida in late August. However, according to PowerOutage.us, more than 300,000 utility customers in southern Louisiana were still without power on Wednesday evening.

Torrential Rains in the South

On Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, torrential rains struck parts of northern Georgia and upstate South Carolina, causing isolated flash flooding. Tropical moisture pouring northward from the Gulf of Mexico and the vicinity of an old stalled frontal zone contributed to the downpours.

Seas and surf may be rough due to the tropical storm, especially in the vicinity of thunderstorms until Thursday evening.

Related Article: Volunteers Are Gathering in Ida's Ground Zero to Help Out After the Hurricane



Wind Shears

Although wind shear restricted development earlier in the week, the warm seas beneath the system helped it grow.

"On Wednesday, the core of this [system] was over some of the Gulf of Mexico's deepest warm water," AccuWeather Hurricane Expert Dan Kottlowski said.

Warm waters spread to the Gulf's depths, with water temperatures in the middle to high 80s F in parts of the central Gulf. Conditions are deemed suitable for tropical growth when water temperatures are 78 degrees or above. The water is less likely to be cooled by the swirling winds on the top when it is warm through a deep layer.

Mindy's Trajectory

As Mindy moves over land, its wind intensity will decrease, and it is forecast to become a tropical depression before shifting back overseas later this week.

From Friday into the weekend, dry air is expected to blow through the Southeast.

Over the weekend, steering winds are expected to move this feature out into the western Atlantic, where it will pose less of a threat to the United States.

Extreme Weather

Larry will remain the strongest tropical cyclone on the charts in the Atlantic through Friday night, ahead of a near encounter or landfall on the Canadian island of Newfoundland.

From this weekend until early next week, a new danger might emerge in the waters around Mexico and Central America, but the trade winds' speed may hold the system too close to shore, limiting its ability to develop further. Instead, winds may keep pushing it westward over the continent.

In the western Gulf, there is a low likelihood of development through early next week, but there will be a greater potential for tropical development when the system moves over land and into the Pacific later next week, according to Kottlowski.

Tropical Surges

Tropical waves will continue to sweep westward from Africa further east into the Atlantic. As a result, there's a potential that a more powerful wave in the train latches on and steadily grows in the region of the Cabo Verde Islands, which are located off the west coast of Africa, this weekend to early next week.

Atlantic Hurricane Season

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season had generated 13 tropical storms as of Wednesday, Sept. 8, with five of them strengthening into hurricanes. Three of those hurricanes intensified into significant storms (Category 3 or higher).

With hurricane season just halfway through (Sept. 10), plenty more tropical storms, hurricanes, and major hurricanes are expected this year as the year progresses at a faster-than-average rate. There are 14 named storms on average over a season, including seven hurricanes and three major hurricanes.

Also Read: Storm Anxiety: How to Handle Extreme Weather Phobias During Hurricane Season

For more climate and weather updates, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
Weather Alert

...RAIN...BREEZY WINDS...COOLER TEMPERATURES ARE POSSIBLE FOR THIS WEEKEND... .A vigorous weather system may affect north central Oregon and south central Washington this weekend and bring the seasons first significant rain to portions of the area along with breezy winds. A cool front is expected to move across the area Friday night with developing rain showers along with breezy winds into Saturday. With increasing confidence some locations could receive over a quarter inch of rain especially in the area mountains. Any outdoor festivities should keep aware of the possible changing weather conditions as the weekend nears including any updates to the weather forecast.
MULESHOE, Texas (AP)  Tim Blacks cell phone dings, signaling the time to reverse sprinklers spitting water across a pie-shaped section of grass that will provide pasture for his cattle.

It's important not to waste a drop. His family's future depends on it.

For decades, the Texas Panhandle was green with cotton, corn and wheat. Wells drew a thousand gallons (3,785 liters) a minute from the seemingly bottomless Ogallala aquifer, allowing farmers to thrive despite frequent dry spells and summer heat.

But now farmers face a difficult reckoning. Groundwater that sustained livelihoods for generations is disappearing, which has created another problem across the southern plains: When there isn't enough rain or groundwater to germinate crops, soil can blow away  just as it did during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

We wasted the hell out of the water, says Black, recalling how farmers irrigated when he was a kid  as if it would last forever. Water flooded furrows or sprayed in high arcs before farmers adopted more efficient center-pivot systems that gave the Southwest its polka-dot landscape.

His grandfather could reach water with a post-hole digger. Now, Black is lucky to draw 50 gallons (189 liters) a minute from high-pressure wells, some almost 400 feet (122 meters) deep. He buys bottled water for his family because the well water is salty.

ENDANGERED AQUIFERS

The problem isn't unique to the Ogallala. Aquifers from Californias Central Valley farm country to India and China are being depleted. But the 174,000-square-mile (450,658-square-kilometer) Ogallala  one of the world's largest  is vital to farmers and ranchers in parts of eight plains states from South Dakota southward.

The region produces almost one-third of U.S. commodity crops and livestock protein, which affects other agricultural industries, small businesses, land values and community tax bases, says Amy Kremen, project manager at the U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded Ogallala Water Coordinated Agriculture Project that supports water management.

But because water doesn't recharge easily in most areas, if it runs out, it could be gone for hundreds if not thousands of years.

Though groundwater in Texas can recharge to a degree, by percolating through playa lakes, many have been plowed over and no longer function.

And in Texas, along with parts of New Mexico and Oklahoma, water is disappearing more rapidly than elsewhere in the aquifer, also called the High Plains. Less-frequent rain linked to climate change means groundwater often is the only option for farmers, forcing tough choices.

Some are growing crops that require less water or investing in more efficient irrigation systems. Others, like Black, also are replacing cash crops with livestock and pastureland.

And more are returning land to its literal roots  by planting native grasses that green with the slightest rain and grow dense roots that hold soil in place.

Theres a reason Mother Nature selected those plants to be in those areas, says Nick Bamert, whose father started a Muleshoe-based seed company specializing in native grasses 70 years ago. The natives ... will persist because theyve seen the coldest winters and the hottest dry summers.

Black, who once grew mostly corn, plants such grass on corners of his fields, as pasture for his growing herd of cattle and as a cover crop between rows of wheat and annual grass.

The transition to cattle, he hopes, will allow his oldest son, Tyler, to stay on the land Blacks grandparents began plowing 100 years ago. His younger son, Trent, could see the writing on the wall and is a data analyst near Dallas.

You want your kids to come back, but damn, theres better ways to make a living than what were doing, says Black, maneuvering his pickup through a pasture. Its just too hard here with no water.

LOSING FARMLAND

Dry grass crackles underfoot as Jude Smith reaches an overlook at Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge, established during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl to preserve native prairie and three spring-fed lakes.

Its mid-May and everything looks dead because there's been almost no rain for a year. The lakes  where the Ogallala should bubble up and tens of thousands of migrating Sandhill cranes gather in good years  are dry, too, save for muddy streaks darkening the lakebed. The water disappeared as nearby farmers struggled to pump enough groundwater to grow cotton.

Rain might not raise the water table much, says Smith, a biologist who manages the refuge. But the native prairie comes alive with even a trickle.

While nonnative grass dies during droughts, native grass goes dormant and the roots  up to 15 feet (5 meters) deep  hold soil.

Rain came this summer  about 16 inches (41 centimeters) so far  often in torrents. The refuge's lakes refilled from runoff and springs started running again, Smith says. Meanwhile, the native grasslands look like Ireland."

The welcome rain hasn't allayed long-term worries about groundwater and droughts, says Black, the Muleshoe landowner. It came too late to help germinate spring crops, and farmers continued to irrigate.

The Texas Panhandle almost certainly will continue to be locked into extended periods of drought that have persisted across the Southwest for 20 years, says meteorologist Brad Rippey with the USDA.

People that have been farming out there for a couple decades are concerned, he says, adding that drought could return this fall.

Already it billows off plowed fields during dry spells, including along the Texas-New Mexico border, where rippling piles of it  some 10-15 feet (3-5 meters) high  can clog fields, ditches and roadways. It blows off rooftops like snow, says Smith, who this spring found big mounds formed in his yard overnight.

Farmers have called him to ask if the wildlife refuge could buy their land, which it's not authorized to do.

Everybody knows that ... the waters going away, he says, driving past abandoned farmhouses, tree stands that mark long-gone homesteads and rusted irrigation equipment. Farmers do the best they can with what they've got, but I dont know how many more years we can do this.

There is reason for concern, experts say.

More than half the currently irrigated land in portions of western Texas, eastern New Mexico and the Oklahoma Panhandle could be lost by the end of the century  with 80% of those losses by 2060, according to a study published last year.

But areas throughout the aquifer also are vulnerable. The central part could lose up to 40% of irrigated area by 2100, with more than half the losses in the next 40 years.

Those losses might be slowed as farmers adapt to lower water levels, researchers say. But the projections underscore the need for planning and incentives in vulnerable areas.

NEW DUST BOWL ZONE

The USDA has identified a Dust Bowl Zone that covers parts of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas vulnerable to severe wind erosion and where grasslands conservation is a priority.

Already, reestablishing native vegetation in the sandy soil over the Ogallala has proven difficult where irrigation ceased on former Kansas farmland. The same is true on land outside the Ogallala previously irrigated by rivers, including in Colorados Arkansas River Valley, where agricultural land dried out before native grasses could be established.

With less rainfall, farmers likely will need to use some remaining groundwater to reestablish native grasses to avoid Dust Bowl conditions, says study co-author Meagan Schipanski, an associate professor of soil and crop sciences at Colorado State University.

In an ideal world, there would be some forethought and incentives available" to help farmers make the transition "before theres not enough water there, Schipanski says.

Chris Grotegrut already has planted 75% of his familys 11,000 acres (4,452 hectares) in native grasses; he uses it to graze cattle and sheep and plants wheat directly into native grass pastures.

The rest of the land, about an hour southwest of Amarillo, eventually will be planted in native grasses, too, says Grotegut, whos seen water levels rise  though not enough to return to full irrigation of his land.

Most farmers aren't transitioning fast enough as the water table drops from the Panhandle damn near to the Oklahoma line, he says. Maybe theyre using the latest and greatest of equipment and technology in the field, but (that) will not totally offset the change thats coming to them,"

HELP FOR FARMERS

Many farmers will need incentives and help to transition to grasslands.

The federal crop insurance and conservation programs often work at cross purposes: Farmers sometimes plant crops even if theyre likely to fail, because they're covered by insurance. And cultivating land often is more profitable than taking government payments to preserve or restore grasslands.

From 2016 through mid-2021, fewer than 328,000 acres (132,737 hectares) were enrolled in the USDA's Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program in Dust Bowl Zone counties, according to USDA data. Enrollment for 2021 ended last month, but the USDA has not released the most recent totals.

Although grasslands also can be enrolled in other programs, there was a big push this summer to enroll more in the CRP grasslands program, which allows grazing and was authorized in the 2014 Farm Bill, says Zach Ducheneaux, head of the USDAs Farm Service Agency.

In Texas, fewer than 32,000 acres (12,950 hectares) were enrolled in Dust Bowl counties over the past five years, and 60% of the Dust Bowl counties had no land enrolled.

So the agency sharply increased payments this summer, to a minimum $15 per acre  higher in priority counties  after they were reduced by the Trump administration, Ducheneaux says.

In Bailey County, where Black lives and no land was enrolled in the grasslands program, payments went from $4 to $20 per acre.

But Black, who took a couple hundred acres (81 hectares) of native grasslands out of a federal conservation program last year to provide pasture for his cattle, says the higher payments wont convince him to enroll. I can make more money without it and wont be bound by any government restrictions, he says.

Bamert, from the seed company, says some farmers are planting native grasses on their own, rather than through government programs.

But the transition to grasslands and conservation also is hindered by an agricultural banking system that makes it difficult to obtain loans for anything other than conventional farming and equipment, as well as the need to pay off that equipment.

If you give a producer a choice and flexibility, theyre going to engage in soil health practices, says USDA's Ducheneaux, who is advocating for change. Theyre not going to continue to stay stuck in that commodity cycle.

Among farmers, ranchers and even municipalities, there seems to be a real connecting of the dots ... about water and soil stewardship, and it's driving cross-state conversations about solutions, says Kremen, from the Ogallala Water Coordinated Agriculture Project.

But farmers need programs that allow them to earn a living while they make the transition to grasslands over perhaps 15 years, she says.

There's a hunger for action that wasnt there even five years ago, because of the severity of the water loss, Kremen says. What's at stake is the vitality of communities that depend on this water and towns drying up and blowing away.

___

Follow Tammy Webber on Twitter: @twebber02

___

Read more of APs climate coverage at http://www.apnews.com/Climate

___

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.
NEW HAVEN  Hey, Connecticut: Please show up.

That is the message from Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services, whose gentle inquiries this spring as to the interest of community groups to sponsor a family are now urgent.

Ann OBrien, IRIS director of community engagement, said all of Connecticut is a target to find places and volunteers to welcome, house and help settle refugees, the greatest influx expected to come from Afghanistan.

The latest estimate has IRIS welcoming 700 refugees between now and September 2022, according to OBrien, with at least 300 Afghans, likely more, in the next three months.

She assumes some of the 700 will be Syrian and some from other countries, but nothing is confirmed.

The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants in Bridgeport is committed to 100 Afghans in the next 60 days, and another 200 refugees from all countries over the next 12 months.

That will bring more than 1,000 refugees to Connecticut in one year.

The United States chaotic exit from Afghanistan threw off any normal schedule, with IRIS on 24-hour notice to receive individuals and families.

Spread the word

The close to 50 co-sponsors who have participated in resettlements in the past five years have come not only from Greater New Haven and Greater Hartford, but also parts of Fairfield and Litchfield counties, with a group set up in New London and another in Norwich.

But OBrien said IRIS fears they are not even close to that number agreeing to participate and then coming up to speed in the next two months, while the agency needs to attract additional community co-sponsors to the operation.

The co-sponsors, who are often connected to churches and synagogues, but not always, are trained by IRIS and given support by its staff. They are responsible for raising money, locating and furnishing an apartment, making contacts with school systems and health providers and generally helping the refugees acculturate.

Hearst Connecticut Media

OBrien said they have enough temporary housing offers, but they are desperate for permanent, affordable housing options that meet specific criteria.

The criteria include rents at $1,300 to $1,400 a month for three- or two-bedroom apartments near a bus line. She asked that anything outside those perimeters not be sent to IRIS, as it slows down their networking.

When we get families, we want to pretty quickly get them into something where they can stay. That is our hope, she said.

People, spread the word, OBrien said, to all friends who are inclined to help in any capacity.

She said they are taking names and email addresses of everyone who wants to volunteer, as well as more groups interested in becoming co-sponsors.

We are going to take those names and send them to the groups that we are rapidly standing up, OBrien said. Everyone has a role to play. We will make it so everyone can.

She said they need tutors or help with gathering household furnishings and winter clothes or bringing families to appointments, among myriad tasks.

Barbara Davis is with Danbury Area Refugee Assistance, which covers Danbury, Bethel and Ridgefield. They were planning to do it in early 2022, but since the Afghan crisis they are moving more quickly by organizing their teams and raising the money.

Housing again is a main concern and they need to raise funds to subsidize that housing, potentially for a year. You really have to be ready, Davis said.

Contributed photo /

Volunteers

Laura Noe is the co-coordinator with the Rev. Joe Perdue at the First Congregational Church in Branford, both new to leading this group, although she volunteered when they helped settle a Syrian family in 2016 by working in the trenches, unpacking boxes, kind of making a nest.

Calling themselves Helping Families Settle, they are raising between $8,000 and $12,000, have a fiduciary in place and have identified furniture and other donations to set up a household  actually, multiple households, they have so much.

What we are in desperate need of is people to raise their hand to take on a subcommittee, she said, particularly leadership in health care and education, while unlike other groups, they have identified an apartment. A communitywide meeting on the effort is scheduled for Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the James Blackstone Memorial Library in Branford.

We want to do a lot of work ahead of time so it doesnt feel like a fire hose in the face when the people are here, Noe said.

She said there are no end to good causes to join, but said there are deeper reasons she was pulled towards this one.

Noe said she has a brother who has a medical condition, was homeless for 25 years and out of touch with his family for nine years. She eventually found him in New Milford where everyone knew him as the person who loved and talked to trees.

She got to know the town, but especially Angel Salinas, an Ecuadorian immigrant who had opened a restaurant, Johanas, on the Green, and fed her brother daily, while in the winter Salinas let him get out of the elements in the back of Salinas shop.

If you ever doubt there are good people in this world, this man, Angel Salinas, will redeem your faith in humanity forever, she said.

Noe said her brother eventually accepted help and now is living independently. Salinas, when contacted at his restaurant, said sometimes you do something simple, you can help a person. We became friends.

I found out about community care and what happens when you bring all the great heads and hearts in a community around the table, Noe said. I know how much it matters when people show up. I know how much it matters when people care.

Her brothers story is the subject of the second book she is working on, Tree Man. Her first book, Travel with My Son, Journeys of the Heart, follows their travels to other cultures as she took her then-teenager out of his American comfort zone with the goal of raising a citizen of the world.

She hopes the alliance with IRIS will inspire a culture that celebrates family and community.

Davis said the Danbury group successfully resettled a family from Colombia and one from Syria. She said this time around everything is a bigger challenge because of COVID-19, but like everyone else she said they are adapting and trying to work as fast as they can.

John McGeehan is continuing to head a coalition of five groups: First Church Congregational in Fairfield, Temple Israel, the conservative synagogue in Westport, St. Lukes Catholic Church in Westport and a group that self identifies as the Muslim community which has 15 families.

The model exists. This is not hard. You just have to populate it. In my case it is just getting the band back together with a few different members, McGeehan said. As organized as they are, he does not expect to be up and running until the end of October.

This is not to minimize the difficulty of finding housing, not only because of the increased costs in the wake of COVID-19, but because former rental properties are evaporating.

Life changing

McGeehan said he came to the project five years ago from the perspective of wanting to change the life of another, but it also changed my life in profound ways. It opened my eyes to things I was just not aware of before.

There is a lot of responsibility, but there is an opportunity to build a relationship with somebody very different from yourself which you would not experience in Fairfield County, McGeehan said of the Syrian family they helped settle.

He worked in investment banking for 25 years and now has his own consulting firm and experience organizing large groups, which the volunteer component represents. There is a memorandum of understanding among the five organizations that splits the cost and 40 hours of volunteer work per week.

McGeehan feels the community co-sponsorships are the best way to resettle refugees because they have broader shoulders and deeper pockets and they can stay with them longer than the resettlement agencies themselves.

He worries that the infrastructure at the State Department and the nine national refugee agencies with its hundreds of affiliates has atrophied over the last five years, resettling 12,000 refugees last year down from 80,000. He said he is exploring towns and the state getting involved.

Christian Abraham / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

I think there is a potential role for the public sector to play, whether it is a catalyst for convening coalitions or helping with housing, McGeegan said.

Robin Baslaw of Shoreline Interfaith Refugee Resettlement, which consists of Temple Beth Tikvah and the First Congregational Church of Guilford, said there is a strong interest to get involved again in sponsoring a family, such as it did in 2018.

In the last few weeks, however, they have been involved in working with U.S. Marines and others trying to get the five brothers of the husband of the Afghan family they co-sponsored last time out of the country, along with their families.

She said it has been heartbreaking for the family not knowing what might happen to them, as communication has stopped.

Baslaw, who is with Temple Beth Tikvah, said they will work on getting organized again for another family after the Jewish holidays.

Davis said every group is different. The first family the Danbury group helped had medical needs, while the second with three children under age 6 had babysitting requests that would allow them to work and attend English classes, which greatly increased the number of volunteers needed.

OBrien said the groups have established relationships with medical personnel in their communities who can help the families, while Yale Refugee Clinic is an ongoing resource.

Davis said they have a core group of 10, but can use up to 40 volunteers ideally or at least 25. She said she got involved after watching the image of 3-year-old Aylan Kurdi, a Syrian, who drowned in the Mediterranean after trying to escape Syria with his family.

It is an amazing experience to know people that have survived such dire circumstances. They have figured out a way to survive and to protect their families. They are so brave. Just doing the little bit I do to get them established here, it is an amazing experience, Davis said.

Resources

Jean Silk, who organizes Jewish Alliance for Refugee Resettlement a coalition of six New Haven-area synagogues and the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, said it currently is hosting three people from Syria, the mother, sister and brother of the husband of the family they had previously settled in 2016.

It is the sixth family they have resettled since beginning their relationship with IRIS.

Silk said it is likely they will co-sponsor an Afghan family in a year, maybe sooner if they have the resources, particularly the human resources to carry it out. She said participating in this familys reunification has been very special as they are now doing it as partners with the original family.

Kathleen Cooney, who is with St. Thomas More Chapel at Yale University, said they helped a Syrian family in 2016 and are now planning for another family this year.

She said their committees are looking into education, housing and employment, but again housing tops the list. Because of its Yale connection they have students who can interpret Farsi. She said the St. Thomas community is incredibly generous with their time, their treasures and their talent.

We ask and people just sign up and they deliver, Cooney said. You cant even think what has happened in Afghanistan, the trauma these poor folks have experienced. We are hoping to get the call soon and we will put everything in motion.

She said they expect it will be an Afghan family under Special Immigrant Visas connected to their work with the U.S. in Afghanistan, but also potentially those coming under Humanitarian Parole, which is available for people involved in humanitarian work, education or journalists who are in personal danger.

The rules are uncertain with that program at this point and they will require a larger private subsidy outside the government.

Cooney said they are purchasing mattresses and pillows, and will know who many car seats when the families are identified. She said they are involving students at Yale in the project.

They want to help, Cooney said.

They have 10 committees with students, faculty, but mainly community members, working the issue. We are in good shape with volunteers, but anyone who wants to come and join us they are welcome, Cooney said.

Like the other groups, there is a humanitarian and/or spiritual reason motivating people to get involved.

This is the mission of the Gospel to welcome the stranger and care for those in need. That basically is what we are trying to do, Cooney said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The United States and Mexico restarted high-level economic talks Thursday after a four-year pause as top advisers to presidents Joe Biden and Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador expressed eagerness to make headway on issues important to both nations such as infrastructure, trade and migration.

The talks were launched by Biden in 2013 when he was vice president under Barack Obama but were halted under President Donald Trump, whose hard-line immigration policies complicated the United States relationship with its top trade partner.

Vice President Kamala Harris opened Thursday's meeting with brief remarks in which she sought to emphasize the Biden administration's desire for warmer relations, referring to the Mexican delegation as our friends, our partners." She also stressed the importance of improving relations in a moment when dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, cyber threats and supply chain disruptions are high priorities for both nations.

We are very excited about this next stage of the relationship and partnership between the United States and Mexico, said Harris, who visited Mexico City in June for talks with Lopez Obrador. Mexico is our closest neighbor  and a strategic partner and one of our most important economic relationships. Mexicos economic stability is in the interest of the United States."

Lopez Obrador has faced criticism in recent weeks over images of Mexican immigration agents and National Guard troops having sometimes violent clashes with migrants in the southern state of Chiapas. The migration pressure in southern Mexico as well as at the U.S.-Mexico border led Lopez Obrador to renew his effort to persuade the United States to commit funding to social projects he has implemented in southern Mexico that he says could be expanded to Central America.

He said he sent a letter this week to Biden stressing that people participating in the programs should also be offered work visas in the United States, because Biden will need the labor force to carry out his ambitious infrastructure plan.

Todays meeting is very important so that we initiate a new stage, because there has not been attention to the population that is obligated to migrate, Lopez Obrador said at his daily news conference. There hasnt been in years. Nothing. Everything is contain. Everything is coercion. And that is not how social problems are resolved.

The U.S. side was represented by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, USAID Administrator Samantha Power and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar.

Mexico's delegation included Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, Secretary of Economy Tatiana Clouthier, Ambassador to the U.S. Esteban Moctezuma, Under Secretary of Finance Gabriel Yorio, Under Secretary of Foreign Trade Luz Maria de la Mora, Chief Officer for North America Roberto Velasco, and Director General for International Treaties Monitoring, Administration and Compliance Oversight Lydia Antonio.



Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman contributed from Mexico City.
New Castle, PA (16103)

Today

Cloudy early with isolated thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Cloudy early, becoming mostly clear after midnight. Low around 55F. Winds light and variable.
Newburyport, MA (01950)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 84F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low near 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Newburyport, MA (01950)

Today

Scattered clouds with the possibility of an isolated thunderstorm developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 85F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms likely. Low near 65F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
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A new study claims that the next solar superstorm to hit Earth could trigger what they call the 'internet apocalypse' . According to Sangeetha Abdu Jyothi, an associate professor at the University of California, Irvine, this would prove catastrophic for global communications.

In the research , presented at SIGCOMM 2021, the annual conference of the ACM Data Communication Special Interest Group, the specialist explained that the submarine internet infrastructure would be very vulnerable to a future geomagnetic storm .

The Earth's magnetic field protects humans from the solar wind , made up of electrically charged particles from the Sun. This magnetism deflects the solar wind towards the planet's poles, creating the beautiful northern lights .

Every 80 to 100 years , these winds become solar super-storms and their current can damage long conductors , such as power lines , the study noted.

It may interest you: Why the asteroid Psyche 16 is worth more than the entire global economy of planet Earth

Why would it be the 'internet apocalypse'?

What made me think about this is that we saw how unprepared the world was for the pandemic . There was no protocol to deal with it effectively, and the same goes for the resilience of the Internet , "Abdu Jyothi told Wired magazine.

The internet infrastructure essentially consists of long-distance fiber optic lines and submarine cables connected to repeaters . All are vulnerable elements to a solar storm of great magnitude.

In today's long-distance Internet cables, fiber optics is immune to GIC. But these cables also have electrically powered repeaters at ~ 100 km intervals that are susceptible to damage,  explained Jyothi.

Repeaters are placed every 50 to 150 kilometers to maintain signal strength over long distances. If one of the repeaters fails, all wiring stops working, cutting intercontinental connections .

2 / A Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) involves the emission of electrically charged matter and accompanying magnetic field into space. When it hits the earth, it interacts with the earth's magnetic field and produces Geomagnetically Induced Currents (GIC) on the crust.

[Image: NASA] pic.twitter.com/BO910bko5S - Sangeetha Abdu Jyothi (@sangeetha_a_j) July 29, 2021

Our infrastructure is not ready for a large-scale solar event. We have very limited knowledge of the extent of the damage , "the professor added.

Transformers on the surface can be replaced in days or weeks to restore power. However, laying new submarine cables can take months , not to mention that several will most likely fail at once.

Thus, large regions and even entire continents would be disconnected from the internet for a long period of time.

In the document, Abdu Jyothi affirms that the economic impact of an Internet interruption is estimated at more than 7,000 million dollars a day , just in the United States. "What if the network doesn't work for days or even months?" , the researcher sentenced.

Also read: What to do in your business in case of an earthquake

Other catastrophic solar superstorms

On average, a massive solar flare occurs every 100 years , like those that struck Earth in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

The last major solar storms occurred in 1859 and 1921 . The first was known as the 'Carrington Event' , as the geomagnetic disturbance was so severe that the telegraph cables burst into flames. In addition, the northern lights were seen near equatorial Colombia, when they are normally only visible near the planet's poles.

Then came the Great Storm of May 1921 , when geomagnetic activity intensified electrical currents through telephone and telegraph lines, heating them to the point of combustion. In other words, telegraph and telephone stations , as well as various power stations and railway lines , burst into flames all over the world.

Strong currents disrupted telegraph systems in Australia, Brazil, Denmark, France, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The Ottawa Journal reported that many long-distance phone lines in New Brunswick were burned by the storm.

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The Mark Twain Library will honor comedian and actress Amy Schumer at its eighth annual Puddnhead Prize for Outstanding Humor on Sept. 25 in Redding.

The award was created in 2014 by comedian and Redding resident Michael Ian Black and is meant to celebrate Mark Twains contribution to comedy as inspired by one of Twains stories, The Tragedy of Puddnhead Wilson. Its part of the Puddnhead Festival, which includes a Puddnhead for children, a stand-up comedy night and the award show. The festival is a fundraiser that is essential to the librarys budget, according to its website.

The trophy is a four-foot golden spoon and is awarded to American comedians. Past recipients include Roz Chast, Ben Stiller, Jim Gaffigan, Seth Meyers, Paul Rudd, Jon Hamm and Laura Linney.

Contributed photo

Contributed photo /

Jen Wastro, co-chair of the Puddnhead Festival, said theres nothing quite like seeing Black riff with comedians on stage at the award show.

It's a very intimate, rare opportunity for our guests. It's not a talk show, nobodys talking in sound bites. There's no press. There's no paparazzi. It's a very unique opportunity because it is so intimate, she said.

Last year, Laura Linney accepted the award virtually, but this year Wastro is looking forward to having Schumer and all attendees in person.

The show is sold out with 250 tickets distributed, and theres still a wait list of people who want to attend. This year, the library found a way to make sure a far-reaching audience can enjoy the show. As of Saturday, Oct. 2, anyone will be able to stream the show from the librarys website for a minimum $25 donation.

During COVID, the popularity of the library's virtual programming was extraordinary. We pivoted, like everybody else, and were doing virtual programming right from the start. But it gained in popularity. It gained in in reach, Wastro said. Now we have people from Delaware watching programs with the Mark Twain Library. Otherwise, obviously, that never would have happened. So, weve learned and been very, very pleased and touched with the audience of Mark Twain Library programs.
The question about the direction of the pandemic in Connecticut in the next few weeks appears to have taken two tracks: Gov. Ned Lamont has voiced optimism that the curve has flattened, while a top health expert, Scott Gottlieb, said the worst of the delta variants effect is yet to come.

New COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations have stalled in recent weeks after a sizable jump from pandemic lows seen in June. Driving that surge was the increased prevalence of the delta variant, a highly contagious strain of the virus now seen in nearly all cases.

After Connecticut reached its lowest COVID positivity rate in a month over the Labor Day weekend, the rate bounced back up again on Wednesday. The state reported a daily positivity rate of 3.51 percent on Wednesday as hospitalizations increased by one patient for a total of 363 statewide  74 percent were not vaccinated, the governors office said.

Lamont has expressed optimism about the trajectory of the pandemic in recent weeks  the positivity rate had stopped increasing and hospitalizations were within a similar range.

I see the incredibly high infections and hospitalizations in those southern states and Im pleased that Connecticut, because were 84 percent vaccinated, is relatively flat, Lamont said in late August. Doesnt mean were out of the woods, but we are what they used to say  remember in the early days of COVID  flattening the curve.

But Gottlieb, who appeared a number of times alongside Lamont when twice-weekly press conferences were held about the pandemic, told CNBC this weekend that he thought the initial spike was more a warning than an actual wave in the Northeast, and the situation was going to get worse.

I think our true delta wave is going to build after Labor Day in the Northeast. .... This is going to be a highly regionalized pandemic, Gottlieb, the former Food and Drug Administration commissioner, said in the interview.

For health experts, the next few weeks remain an uncertainty as students return to local classrooms and college campuses against a backdrop of one of the highest vaccination rates in the country, but a persistent threat from the delta variant.

Dr. Ulysses Wu, Hartford HealthCares top epidemiologist, said Wednesday he does not expect a spike in cases until October, but said the numbers could oscillate up and down the next few weeks.

Similarly, Dr. Asah Shah, head of infectious disease for Stamford Health, said some projections show a bit of a plateau with the number of cases going up and down slightly in the coming weeks, and thats the hope.

Wu said there are conflicting factors with the pandemic, some that work for and against an uptick in cases.

It really all depends. There are the factors that are going to drive the numbers up, kids being back in school, their masking compliance, the prevalence of delta and waning immunity from vaccines, Wu said.

However, he said more people seem to be wearing masks and theres been an uptake in vaccinations since the recent spike in cases.

Recent state figures show the number of vaccines administered per week has gone up through August from around 42,000 to just over 50,000 doses.

I do think that the vaccine uptake is a good thing. And we know that the vaccines are effective for severe disease from delta, Shah said.

But respiratory diseases have some seasonality.

The wild card, there are a few, No. 1, we are heading into our standard flu and respiratory disease season, Shah said.

What may be alleviating the problem now is temperatures are mild and people have their windows open, Wu said. But temperatures will drop in the coming weeks, forcing people indoors with their windows shut.

I do agree that Gottlieb, I think that numbers are going to go up, but I dont think they are going to go up now, Wu said.

The start of the school year has also been cause for concern. While many students are vaccinated, those under 12 years old are still not eligible.

As students have returned to the classrooms, the state has resumed its weekly school report. According to the latest data released last Thursday, 247 students and 58 school staff had tested positive statewide. According to the report, dozens of schools had reported fewer than six cases.

Pedro Mendes, of UConn's Center for Quantitative Medicine, said his latest model shows cases slowing down, but the projections do not factor the impact of students returning to school.

It was easier last year when we still had a lot of restrictions; this year there are no travel restrictions and masking is patchy. As a consequence, it has been hard to calibrate the model for the level of person-person contact we have now, versus what we had in July/August, Mendes said.

He went on to say: So, while I may believe that there may be coming another wave, my model can't really predict it at this point yet.

But health officials say state and local leaders now have nearly 18 months of experience.

The one thing that makes me feel comfortable, weve done this before. If we see a surge in cases, we know what to do, Shah said.
SKOPJE, North Macedonia (AP)  North Macedonias government declared three days of mourning Thursday following a deadly overnight fire in a COVID-19 field hospital that killed 14 people and injured a dozen.

The blaze broke out late Wednesday in the western city of Tetovo, where the unit had been set up following a recent spike in infections in the region that left local hospitals full.

Health Minister Venko Filipce said it was not yet clear whether all the 14 dead were COVID-19 patients or whether some visiting relatives might have been among them.

We will run DNA tests on the victims which will confirm whether there were members of the families, Filipce said.

It is difficult to express in words the pain that I feel for the lost lives and the loss of their families, he told a press conference Thursday evening.

Another 12 people were injured, and were transferred to the main hospital of Tetovo, where they were in stable condition, the minister said.

Addressing public pressure to resign in the wake of the blaze, Felipce said he would decide whether to do so after the investigation into the incident is completed.

The minister insisted that the 19 field hospitals set up across the country over the past year to deal with the pandemic were built to the specifications and standards laid out by the World Bank, which financed their construction through a loan.

It is a tragedy that I cant even explain, said local resident Idriz Brahimi. Those were sick people who couldnt get out. It is a huge catastrophe."

After an emergency meeting on the fire, the government ordered national flags to be lowered to half-staff for three days and all sports and cultural events and celebrations to be cancelled until Saturday.

The cause of the fire, which raced through the wooden paneled structure, was not immediately determined, although it was believed to have been an accident, potentially connected to the facility's oxygen supply.

President Stevo Pendarovski said during a visit to Tetovo that the investigation would be completed within five days, and that the cause was not deliberate arson.

Five prosecutors from Tetovo and Skopje are working on the investigation. Prime Minister Zoran Zaev said in a Facebook post overnight that the blaze followed an explosion at the site. There was speculation that the blast was linked to oxygen supplies.

We saw the explosion and when we came here everything was in flames, said local resident Nexhmedin Haliti. Firefighters arrived and started to put the fire out, it lasted for 15-20 minutes. Everything burnt out.

Fires in COVID-19 hospitals or wards have cost dozens of lives in other countries.

In July, a fire that swept through a COVID-19 ward in a hospital in Iraq's Nasiriyah killed 92, and is believed to have been started either by a short-circuit or an oxygen cylinder explosion. In April, at least 82 people  many of them COVID-19 patients or their relatives  died in a fire at a Baghdad hospital that broke out when an oxygen tank exploded. Iraqs health minister resigned over the disaster.

In Romania, two deadly hospital fires within a three-month period raised concerns about the countrys ageing and overstretched healthcare system.

Last November, 10 died in a fire in an intensive care unit for COVID-19 patients in the northern Romanian town of Piatra Neamt. Then in January, another blaze engulfed a ward at Bucharests Matei Bals hospital, killing five. Supplemental oxygen was present in both of the hospital wards.

In the aftermath of the Matei Bals fire, the hospitals lawyer said that had a nurse not stopped the oxygen supply we would have had an explosion.

North Macedonia's government said Thursday it was accepting the offer of NATO allies to send fire experts to help with the investigation. It was unclear which countries would be involved.

With less than 30% of the countrys roughly 2 million population fully vaccinated, North Macedonia has seen a significant spike in coronavirus infections and deaths since late August.

___

Zenel Zhinipotoku in Tetovo, North Macedonia, Stephen McGrath in Bucharest, Romania and Elena Becatoros in Athens, Greece, contributed.

___

Follow APs pandemic coverage at:

https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic

https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-vaccine

https://apnews.com/UnderstandingtheOutbreak
I find it ironic that I was born on Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7, fifteen years after it occurred, and later witnessed what happened at the World Trade Center 45 years later from an office building not far away.

If Pearl Harbor was my alpha, I vowed that the World Trade Tower attacks would not be my omega. It was not an easy road for me. I defy any eyewitness to say they did not suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome. Thanks to ordinary people, most of us who survived made it through the other side.

It started as a typical day. A rush to the train to take the trip to Grand Central Station, and then the subway ride on the No. 4 or 5 train to Wall Street. The sky was blue and the air was fresh. I was scheming to leave work a little early so I could get to the beach for a walk before the sun set. I had just started at a law firm on the 57th floor of the Chase Building as an associate, having gotten my law degree a year before. I was late to the law profession, but finally landed a job in the city. Leaving work early was not going to be easy.

I managed to get a seat on the subway at Grand Central and began the trek downtown. The subway was slower than usual, so I didnt get to Wall Street until 8:46 a.m., just after the first plane hit the North Tower. Oblivious, I exited the subway station to the sight of black smoke powering down onto the street. Thinking the building over the subway station was on fire, I rushed across the street. Papers were streaming from the sky. I thought it odd that memos and files were falling around me. I looked down and saw a plane ticket, which puzzled me.

I could see an angry black hole in the North Tower. The streets were filled with people. As I crossed to Liberty Place a fireman held back the crowd so a fire truck could pass. I still remember the faces of the men hanging off the truck as they raced toward the building. Their truck was later found in the debris. My mind has blocked out other things I saw, though images sometimes push through.

All of us thought the plane strike was an accident. I helped a woman who had been in Deutsche Bank and wanted to get through to her husband to tell her she was OK. My cell phone worked (one of the few that did). But I told her to come to my office so she could call from there. We arrived at 9 a.m. We could see the towers from my office and watched as she called her husband. At 9:02 a.m. I saw a large, gray plane fly down the river, bank left, and aim directly for the South Tower. It leveled off, and I could hear it throttle down before it slammed into the South Tower. I could see silhouettes of people sitting in their seats on the plane before the impact.

I grabbed my briefcase and left. I could have taken the elevator but decided not to, in case another plane was heading for our building. I walked the 57 stories to street level (no easy task). It was pandemonium.

I decided I should not hang around that area and started the long walk to Grand Central. The decision probably saved my life, as the South Tower fell when I got to the City Hall area. I ran as fast as I could ahead of the plume of dust and debris billowing through the area. I did not look back as I continued uptown.

Silence followed as I walked toward Grand Central, which was closed due to fears of bombs in the station. I continued walking, until I flagged down an express bus to the Bronx. I called my parents to tell them I was OK and I would be in the Bronx. I made it home later that day physically unscathed, but mentally bruised.

In the days and months and even years to follow I suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder. I did not speak of that day and cried myself to sleep every night for months. I had to go back to work three days later. The sights, sounds and smell remain with me 20 years later. To say going to work in a war zone is unnerving is an understatement. Instead of my usual Wall Street subway stop I took the subway to Fulton Street and walked the rest of the way on a route where I would not see the pile. It did not shelter me from the soldiers with semi-automatic weapons and the smoldering rubble that remained for weeks. For the remainder of my time at the law firm, my office shades remained closed as I could not look out the window to where the World Trade towers once stood.

I was lucky to have a family that was patient and I was able to emerge from the darkness, vowing to make a difference in my town. I left the law firm in New York and ventured out on my own. The events of Sept. 11 have led me on a journey of public service  first as an elected volunteer on Greenwichs Representative Town Meeting and now as an elected volunteer on the Board of Estimate and Taxation. I have performed countless hours of pro bono legal services for those who are mentally ill and find themselves in the court system, and have counseled those who find themselves unable to help themselves and face conservatorships.

Every Sept. 11 I watch the ceremony at the former World Trade site and listen to the names of each person who perished. This year will not be any different. I witnessed their murders and feel it is my duty to make sure that they are remembered by me for as long as I am blessed to be on this Earth. I have not yet been able to go to any public ceremonies. The memory is still too raw, even after 20 years, for me to be in public. But I carry the weight of that day and the weight of what I saw every day since. I did not know the people who died, but they are a part of me and shall be so forever. I will never forget them. We all should never forget them.

Karen Fassuliotis is chair of the Greenwich Board of Estimate and Taxation.
To the Editor:

Use Funds to improve New Milford traffic flow.

The major roadways in the town of New Milford are Connecticut State Roads. As such, New Milford will have little or no influence on recommended modifications. Efforts will only produce a storyline for local newspapers.

How to get Left turn motorists to Toe the line at road intersections: It may be legal for a Left turn motorist to stop within the center of a traffic lane while the following traffic is forced to stop until the detaining left turn maneuver is completed.

Develop an artful solution to promote Left turn awareness (short of painting a row of human toes along the center road dividing line) or a roadway Amazon artful curved sweep at the approach to the road intersection.

At intersections, the typical white paint line on the right side of the road lane could be curved (closer to the asphalt curb) or remove curbing to indicate a greater passing area for following cars.

Many intersections just have white line limitations and are with poorly maintained right road lane gravel passing shoulders which become a challenge for the following passing motorists.

Hart buses encounter poorly maintained road shoulders. Some of the gravel dips are so deep, it makes one wonder if it really is a kneeling bus to load passengers.

Gerald W Schuler

Snapping Turtle Lane
NEW YORK (WABC) -- A zookeeper from the Netflix series "Tiger King" was found dead inside an apartment in Brooklyn.

Police say they found Erik Cowie, 52, unconscious in the bedroom of a home on East 55th Street in East Flatbush last Friday.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Cowie appeared on the Netflix show last year as one of the tiger caretakers at the zoo run by the man who calls himself Joe Exotic. His real name is Joseph Maldonado-Passage.

Maldonado-Passage was convicted of attempted murder and violating the Endangered Species Act.

Cowie testified against him at that trial.

An autopsy will determine Cowie's cause of death.
The White House withdrew the nomination of David Chipman to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, President Joe Biden announced in a statement Thursday.

Biden put the blame on Republicans for the inability to get Chipman confirmed, even though there have been concerns among moderate Democrats and independent Maine Sen. Angus King -- as well as GOP senators -- over Chipman's past record on gun control.

"He would have been an exemplary Director of the ATF and would have redoubled its efforts to crack down on illegal firearms traffickers and help keep our communities safe from gun violence," Biden said of Chipman.

"Unfortunately, Republicans in Congress have made clear that they intend to use gun crime as a political talking point instead of taking serious steps to address it. That's why they've moved in lockstep to block David Chipman's confirmation, and it's why they side with gun manufacturers over the overwhelming majority of the American people in opposing commonsense measures like universal background checks."

Chipman said it was an honor to be considered.

"I knew this confirmation process would be difficult, and while ultimately we weren't successful, it remains essential that ATF is led by a confirmed Director who is accountable to the public and places no special interests before the safety of our children and our communities," Chipman said in a statement.

A senior administration official told CNN the move was made after the White House realized "we do not have the votes. We will land him in a non-confirmed job in the administration."

Chipman, a former career official at ATF, came under scrutiny from pro-gun rights supporters and the National Rifle Association for his work as a senior adviser to Everytown for Gun Safety and Giffords -- the organization started by former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot at an event in her Arizona district in 2011.

Top Democrats had been quietly moving to lock down support for Biden's nominee, but Chipman struggled to gain support because some senators questioned if his past record as an advocate for stricter gun laws would make him a less effective director.

The Washington Post was first to report on the withdrawn nomination.

Biden nominated Chipman to head the ATF in April, seeking the first Senate-confirmed director of the agency since 2015 and just the second in its history.

CNN's KFile reported that Chipman failed to disclose some interviews and events dating back to 2012 on paperwork filed with the Senate for consideration of his nomination.

In one undisclosed 2019 talk given to a law firm titled "Can the Right to Bear Arms Coexist with Gun Control?," Chipman said his views and politics weren't typical of most at the ATF and in law enforcement because the groups were mostly "a very conservative bunch, primarily of white men."

The withdrawal of Chipman comes as Democrats have struggled to overcome GOP resistance to measures aimed at curbing the use of guns, and amid a rise in mass shootings in the United States. The House has approved two bills to expand background checks on firearm sales, including one to do so on private and commercial transactions, but that lacks the support of moderate Democrats like Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Sen. Jon Tester of Montana.

While at the ATF, Chipman "disrupted firearms trafficking operations in Virginia that were supplying illegal guns to New York City, served as a member of ATF's version of SWAT, and was named the Special Agent in Charge of ATF's Firearms Programs," according to his bio on the website for Giffords.

In recent years, the ATF has become most visible in the aftermath of mass shootings around the US and at other crimes involving firearms.

According to its website, ATF "protects our communities from violent criminals, criminal organizations, the illegal use and trafficking of firearms, the illegal use and storage of explosives, acts of arson and bombings, acts of terrorism, and the illegal diversion of alcohol and tobacco products."

This story has been updated with additional information.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
"I started dating a girl, and one day, she was tired of listening to me complain about my job. She asked me: 'If you could do any job, what would it be?' I told her that I wanted to become a police officer, and she replied, 'Well, get your fat butt up, start exercising and start taking tests.'"
Reporter

Mary Schenk is a reporter covering police, courts and breaking news at The News-Gazette. Her email is mschenk@news-gazette.com, and you can follow her on Twitter (@schenk).
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Some clouds this morning will give way to generally sunny skies for the afternoon. High 81F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Clear skies. Low 53F. Winds light and variable.
Daily marijuana use increased in 2020 to an all-time high among U.S. college students over the past four decades, according to the University of Michigans annual national Monitoring the Future panel study.

In addition, the annual use of hallucinogensincluding LSD and psilocybin mushroomsincreased among college students last year, reaching the highest level since 1982. The MTF is conducted by a team of research professors at the University of Michigan and funded by grants from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Daily marijuana usedefined as using on 20 or more occasions in the past 30 daysincreased to 7.9% in 2020 among 19-to-22-year-old full-time college students, showing a significant increase of 3.3 percentage points over the past five years. Among same-aged young adults not in college, daily use was 13% in 2020.

The ongoing MTF study has been tracking college students and same-aged youth not in college every year since 1980, and the 2020 prevalence of daily marijuana use among college students was the highest it has been over the course of the study; for noncollege youth, the 2020 level was below the all-time high of 15% in 2019, representing a nonstatistically significant decline in 2020.

In addition, annual use of marijuana last year was at historic high levels since the early 1980s among college students (44%) and among same-aged youth not in college (43%).

Daily marijuana use is a clear health risk, said John Schulenberg, lead investigator of the Monitoring the Future panel study. The brain is still developing in the early 20s, and as the Surgeon General and others have reported, the scientific evidence indicates that heavy marijuana use can be detrimental to cognitive functioning and mental health.

As of 2020, almost 1 in 12 college students used marijuana on a daily basis, and we know from our research and that of others that heavy marijuana use is associated with poor academic performance and dropping out of college. For the almost 1 in 7 young adults aged 19-22 not in college who are daily marijuana users, getting a foothold on the roles and responsibilities of adulthood may be all the more difficult. Of course, the landscape of cannabis use is changing, so continued research is needed regarding negative consequences of heavy use.

There likely are multiple reasons for the continuing increases in marijuana use among young adults, according to Schulenberg and colleagues. One possible reason is the ongoing decline in perceptions of risk of harm from regular marijuana use. In 2020, 21% of those aged 19-22 perceived regular use of marijuana as carrying great risk of harm, the lowest level since 1980 when tracking of this age group began. The highest level was 75% in 1991.

Another main finding is that the use of hallucinogens (including LSD, psilocybin mushrooms and other psychedelic substances) continued to increase, especially among college students. Annual use of any hallucinogen increased 8.6% for college students from 2019 to 2020, the highest it has been since 1982. Among same-aged young adults not in college, annual use was 9.8% in 2020, the highest it has been for two decades.

This continued increase in the use of hallucinogens corresponds with the decrease in the perception that hallucinogens are harmful. For example, the perception that experimental use of LSD carries great harm was at only 28% in 2020 among 19-to-22-year-olds. This is an all-time low over the past four decades and far below the highest level of 50% in 1989. John Schulenberg, lead investigator, Monitoring the Future panel study

A third main finding is that college drinking declined in 2020, perhaps due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among college students, both 30-day use and 30-day drunkenness decreased significantly between 2019 and 2020 to 56% and 28%, respectively. Importantly, for both of these measures, the trends between 2015 and 2019 were fairly level, suggesting that the significant drop between 2019 and 2020 reflects possible pandemic effects due to reduced social time with college friends.

Among noncollege youth, both of these measures showed fairly level trends between 2015 and 2020, with no drop in 2020 (when prevalence was 49% and 22%, respectively). In addition, college student binge drinking (defined as five or more drinks in a row at least once in the past two weeks) declined a significant 7.8 percentage points between 2019 and 2020 to 24%, an all-time low in the past four decades; it was also 24% among same-aged youth not in college in 2020.

Binge drinking among college students has been declining for many years, but this large drop between 2019 and 2020 may have been partly due to the pandemic in terms of reduced opportunities for social time with friends, Schulenberg said. And 2020 was the first time since 1981 that college students and noncollege youth had similar levels of binge drinking. Every other year, college students had higheroften much higherlevels of binge drinking.

These findings come from the annual national Monitoring the Future panel study, which has been tracking substance use among U.S. college students and same-aged youth not in college since 1980. Results are based on data from college students one to four years beyond high school graduation who are enrolled full-time in a two- or four-year college in March of the given year, and from same-aged high school graduates not enrolled full time in college.

The new findings reported are from surveys conducted between March 30, 2020, just after the national shutdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, through Nov. 30, 2020. Additional information about the findings is available from the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

This ongoing annual study also examined trends in the use of other substances including alcohol and tobacco. In 2020, use of most substances remained steady or declined modestly. Additional study results include:
Early social distancing results in smaller death tolls, but leads to larger second waves, according to research led by faculty at Binghamton University, State University of New York.

When COVID-19 arrived on U.S. shores in early 2020, political leaders and public health officials had to make educated guesses. Was a complete lockdown the right move? Were there less severe options that hold back infections without everything going remote?

Now that COVID cases are spiking again, hindsight can help to guide what works best to stop the spread of the deadly virus. That's where researchers like Binghamton University Assistant Professor Zeynep Ertem come in.

Ertem -; a faculty member in the Thomas J. Watson College of Engineering and Applied Science's Department of Systems Science and Industrial Engineering -; studies public health optimization and infectious disease modeling, two areas that provide much insight into fighting the coronavirus.

In her latest research, Ertem worked with colleagues Ozgur Araz (associate professor at the University of Nebraska  Lincoln) and Maytee Cruz-Aponte (assistant professor at the University of Puerto Rico  Cayey) to assess the effectiveness of early social-distancing measures in communities with different population characteristics, such as urban vs. rural areas.

Obviously, we cannot treat all places the same. Manhattan is not the same as Nebraska, for instance, or Houston is not the same as Los Angeles. We have different dynamics around the U.S., so diseases spread differently in places using more public transportation rather than people using their own cars and staying away from each other." Zeynep Ertem, Assistant Professor, Binghamton University

Combining simulation models with data collected during the early months of the pandemic, Ertem and her collaborators tried various strategies to gain time by using those social-distancing interventions until a mass vaccination strategy begins.

"We wanted a more systematic way of showing people that if you close the community for 16 weeks, what will happen? Or 24 weeks, what will happen? What about just one month?" she said.

"We also evaluated how different areas should reopen. Phase one, maybe half of the restaurants open, but just half of the people are allowed to go in. For schools, maybe only half of the people can come in so we reduce the capacity and have some social distancing."

The paper concludes that social-distancing strategies implemented early in a pandemic result in smaller death tolls, but lead to relatively larger second waves. Conversely, social-distancing strategies implemented later result in higher initial death tolls but relatively smaller second waves.

Ertem hopes that policymakers consider her research and others like it when thinking about how to deal with the current resurgence of COVID-19 and any possible future pandemics.

"This study contributes to the literature by presenting a data-driven epidemiological model with a decision analytics framework," she said. "We say that if we close the schools, the malls, the bars and everything else, we are reducing the contact and therefore reducing the spread. In urban and rural areas, it has different implications, so you will need all of the options."
Researchers in Australia have developed a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-9) vaccine that induced robust and long-lived humoral and cellular immune responses against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in both young and aging mice.

The team used the vaccinia virus-based Sementis Copenhagen Vector (SCV) to develop a vaccine encoding the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein that mediates viral attachment and entry into host cells. This spike protein is a primary target of host immune responses following natural SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination.

Vaccinated mice rapidly developed robust spike-specific CD8 T cells and neutralizing antibody responses that significantly increased following a second dose.

Neutralizing antibody activity was maintained for up to nine months post-vaccination, and durable immune memory was evident.

The team  from the University of South Australia in Adelaide and Sementis Limited in Hackney  says the study data support the progression of SCV-based COVID-19 vaccine candidates towards efficacy testing in preclinical SARS-CoV-2 infectious disease challenge trials.

A pre-print version of the research paper is available on the bioRxiv* server, while the article undergoes peer review.

The challenges faced in COVID-19 vaccine design

Since the COVID-19 outbreak first began in Wuhan, China, in late December 2019, the causative agent  SARS-CoV-2  has infected more than 222 million people and claimed the lives of more than 4.59 million.

Fatality rates are disproportionately high in older individuals and those with co-morbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and immunosuppression.

The rapid surge in cases during the second and third waves of infection across several countries has been attributed to the emergence of variants of concern that exhibit increased transmissibility and immune escape owing to mutations acquired in the viral genome, particularly the spike glycoprotein.

Most of the vaccines undergoing development, including those currently approved, exclusively target this spike protein to generate neutralizing antibodies and confer protection.

However, due to the unprecedented speed of this vaccine development, knowledge gaps remain regarding aspects such as the duration of protection and the induction and relative importance of cell-mediated immunity.

Furthermore, vaccines must meet the requirements for rapid and successful deployment within the context of mass vaccination programs, with specific considerations given to large-scale manufacture and distribution logistics.

How can the Sementis Copenhagen Vector help?

The Sementis Copenhagen Vector (SCV) is a viral vector technology that builds on the favorable characteristics of the parental vaccinia virus (VACV) vector. These characteristics include long-lasting immune responses, significant antigen payload capacity, and cold-chain-independent distribution.

Uniquely for a VACV-based vector, it has also been paired with a proprietary manufacturing cell line to generate a platform system that can facilitate large scale and facile manufacturability of all SCV-based vaccines, says Preethi Eldi and colleagues. The efficacy of SCV vaccines has also been established in mouse models of disease and non-human primate immunogenicity and infectious disease challenge studies, adds the team.

What did the current study involve?

The researchers constructed a first-generation SCV vaccine encoding the full-length, native SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (SCV-S) from the original Wuhan isolate.

Vaccine construction and in vitro characterization. (a) Targeted deletion of D13L in SCV-S renders the viral vector unable to generate viral progeny by preventing virion assembly but allows for amplification of the SCV-S genome and late gene expression for production of spike protein to drive the vaccine-specific immune response (top panel). In trans provision of D13 and expression of the host range protein CP77 in the CHO-based manufacturing cell line allows for cell infection and rescue of virion assembly, allowing production of progeny for vaccine manufacture (bottom panel). (b) Schematic representation of SCV-S construction showing the D13L deletion and A41L substitution sites, with site specific primers and the expected band size indicated. (c) Viral DNA from VACV and SCV-S was used for PCR analysis using the site-specific primers shown in (b) to confirm the deletion of D13L and insertion of spike. (d) Immunoblot analysis of spike antigen expression in SCV-S and control vector infected 143B cells using an anti-S1 antibody. (e) Surface analysis of RBD expression in SCV-S or control vector infected or uninfected MCL cells by flow cytometry using an anti-RBD antibody. (f) Immunostaining for RBD expression in STO1-33 cell monolayers infected with control vector, master viral seed (MVS) or passage 10 (P10) stocks of SCV-S. Crystal violet was used to visualize plaques. (g) Manufacturing cell line was infected with MVS and P10 stocks of SCV-S vaccine at an MOI of 0.01 PFU, and viral titers were determined by plaque assay at the indicated times (n=3 replicates).

The SCV-S was tested for its ability to induce a spike-specific cellular immune response in C57BL/6J mice.

Immunogenicity studies showed that vaccinated mice rapidly developed spike-specific polyfunctional CD8 T cell responses among both young and aging mice in just one week.

Vaccination also induced robust levels of circulating spike-specific antibodies, with significant neutralizing activity detected within two weeks.

Importantly, following a booster dose of the vaccine, circulating neutralizing antibody levels were maintained, without any discernible decay, over a nine-month period in both the young and old mice.

The sustained circulating antibody levels are encouraging, particularly in light of recent studies suggesting a decay in neutralization activity in vaccinated and convalescent patients, writes Eldi and the team.

In addition, assessment of long-lived CD8 T cell and antibody-secreting cell compartments revealed the induction of durable spike-specific immune memory following vaccination in both age groups.

Furthermore, spike-specific antibodies contained neutralizing activity against the alpha (B.1.1.7) and beta (B.1.351) variants of concern that have previously been shown to exhibit increased transmissibility (B.1.1.7) and enhanced immune escape (B.1.351).

What did the authors conclude?

The researchers say the data support the progression of SCV-based COVID-19 vaccine candidates towards authentic efficacy testing in recognized preclinical SARS-CoV-2 infectious disease challenge trials and clinical development programs.

The encouraging immunogenicity profile with a single SARS-CoV-2 antigen also provides impetus to include additional SARS-CoV-2 antigens in second-generation SCV COVID-19 vaccines, says Eldi and colleagues.

This would broaden and strengthen vaccine immunogenicity profiles for enhanced vaccine protective efficacy against current VOCs [variants of concern] and new emerging variants as they inevitably become established within the affected global population, concludes the team.

*Important Notice

bioRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
A one-day online therapy session can help treat postpartum depression (PPD), says a study led by McMaster University scientists.

Researchers ran the online workshops for 403 mothers with PPD between April and October last year, at the height of the pandemic. The research findings were published in JAMA Psychiatry.

Lead author Ryan Van Lieshout said that 20 per cent of all mothers suffer from PPD, but just one in ten receive evidence-based treatment.

We found that the workshops led to clinically significant reductions in PPD and anxiety, as well as improvements in social support, mother-infant relations, and infant temperament." Van Lieshout, Associate Professor, McMaster's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences

"Women who participated in the workshop were four times more likely to experience a clinically meaningful improvement in PPD than those randomized to the control group. One in three mothers were affected by postpartum depression during the pandemic, and this is the first time that anyone has shown that it can be treated online over a single day."

The workshops took place live through Zoom and included group exercises, role plays and modules on the causes of PPD, identifying and changing difficult thinking patterns, and strategies to help shift behaviors to improve mood and anxiety.

Van Lieshout said the online therapy sessions could help reduce barriers to treatment including travel time, costs and risk of COVID-19 exposure for both mothers and babies. Mothers can also refer themselves for sessions instead of relying on their doctors.

While most mothers would benefit from just a one-day therapy session, Van Lieshout said the workshops can also help identify those in need of more extensive assistance for their condition. Such an approach will allow health authorities to implement a 'stepped care' approach to PPD that can treat patients more efficiently and effectively.

Van Lieshout said the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has already provided funding for more one-day workshops to be run by public health nurses.

"We're hopeful that policy makers will take note and consider how this could play an important role in stepped models of care for PPD," said Van Lieshout.

He said that if left untreated in mothers, PPD can increase the risk of their children developing emotional and behavioral problems.
Prolonged exposure to air pollution can be linked to an increased risk of stroke and coronary heart disease, even when levels are below the limits specified by the EU and WHO. This has been shown, among others, by researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen in Germany in a large European study published in The Lancet Planetary Health.

"Our results indicate that the current air quality guidelines do not provide sufficient protection," says Petter Ljungman, associate professor at the Institute of Environmental Medicine at Karolinska Institutet and joint last author of the article.

The study is a major European collaboration and involves more than 137,000 participants from six different cohorts in Sweden, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Germany that were followed for an average of 17 years. The researchers investigated whether there is a link between stroke or acute coronary heart disease and prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter (particles with a mass less than 2.5 microns in diameter, PM 2,5 ), nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), black carbon, and ozone (O 3 ).

"We discovered a 10 per cent increase in the risk of suffering a stroke for every increase of 5 micrograms per cubic metre of fine particulate matter in the air where you live. Our study shows air pollution in urban areas is contributing to the risk of stroke even after adjustment for noise", says Annette Peters, Director at the Institute for Epidemology at Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, who led study from the German side.

The researchers could also link nitrogen dioxide and black carbon to an increased risk of stroke. Only nitrogen dioxide was linked to an increased risk of coronary heart disease; every 10 micrograms per cubic metre increase in nitrogen dioxide in the air saw a 4 per cent increase in the risk of coronary heart disease. However, the study cannot establish any causal link.

The researchers were unable to detect any safe thresholds below which levels of air pollution are harmless to cardiovascular health. The adverse effects of fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide were also seen when analyses were limited to participants exposed to levels below the limits specified by WHO and EU (10 and 25 g/m respectively for PM 2,5 and 40 g/m for NO 2 ).

This is worrying and has a major impact on how aggressively we should strive for good air quality to prevent common and serious diseases." Petter Ljungman, Associate Professor, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet

The WHO will shortly present new air quality guidelines.

The study was conducted in close collaboration with Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen in Germany, where Kathrin Wolf and Annette Peters led the pooled analyses based on their experise in prospective cohorts, statistical analyses and air pollution epidemiology. The Swedish cohorts have been financed by the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, the Swedish Research Council for Health, Working Life and Welfare, the Swedish Research Council, the Heart-Lung Foundation, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Region Stockholm, the Swedish Diabetes Association, and Novo Nordisk Scandinavia. The authors state that there are no conflicts of interest.
"What the heck is happening?" recalls Melissa Southward, the mother of now-three-year-old Sam, when he started having nose bleeds and developed a yellowish skin color in August 2020. Southward took Sam to his primary care physician, near their home in Frederick, Maryland, where bloodwork was done. The results showed that Sam had B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Your mind goes to the worst place immediately. Standing in my backyard when they told me, I fell on my knees and started bawling." Melissa Southward, mother of now-three-year-old Sam

The family was immediately directed to go to the hospital. "I told [Sam] that he was going to a special doctor," Southward says. "Hearing that, he assured us that 'I am going to be OK, because I'm going to see a special doctor'."

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common type of cancer in children, affects the blood and bone marrow. The leukemic cells grow rapidly, making it difficult for the bone marrow to make normal cells. It's unclear what causes ALL; however, certain factors  such as previous cancer treatment, exposure to radiation and genetic disorders  can increase the risk.

From his local hospital, Sam was transferred to the oncology unit at Johns Hopkins Children's Center (JHCC), where he was started on a regimen of medication and chemotherapy to try and get the leukemia quickly into remission. He also received multiple blood transfusions.

"The doctors said, 'Leukemia is one of the more treatable cancers'," Southward recalls.

After eight days at JHCC, Sam's bone marrow was retested and there was no sign of cancer. He was released from the hospital. Twenty days later, he was considered in remission.

Since then, Sam has continued medication and chemotherapy to ensure that the cancer doesn't return, which is typical in cases like his. This treatment will continue for another 18 months.

Sam also has regular visits with his oncologist, Patrick Brown, M.D., professor of oncology in the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and director of the Pediatric Leukemia Program at JHCC and the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins.

Sam has been readmitted to JHCC a few times because of fevers, and once, suffered a 30-minute seizure. The seizure resulted in Todd's palsy, a neurological condition that causes a temporary paralysis of his left side  a day that Southward says was the scariest of her life. The Todd's palsy disappeared within 24 hours, but Sam is now followed by a neurology team, along with his oncology team.

Overall, Sam's doctors believe his prognosis is good.

During his time at JHCC, Sam acquired the nickname "Batman Sam" after he was asked by a nurse what would be his superhero name.

"Without hesitation, he told her 'Batman Sam'," Southward says. "The nickname has become a symbol of courage and support for Sam and our family."

"Sam's cancer was thankfully caught at an early stage, which is beneficial, as we try to get him into remission as quickly as possible," Brown says. "He is doing well, and is truly a superhero, considering everything he has been through."

"He's been incredible," says Southward of her son. "You would think it would be mania with a three-year old, but he's had such incredible patience and perseverance."
Bats have long been known as important hosts of zoonotic viral pathogens. Zoonotic viruses that bats transmit are capable of infecting humans and have caused devastating infections throughout the world. Common zoonotic viruses include the Ebola virus and the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronaviruses. Although retroviruses are known to have a major global impact on human health, the zoonotic potential of bat retroviruses is currently unknown.

Study: Retroviruses of Bats: a Threat Waiting in the Wings?. Image Credit: Rob D the Baker/ Shutterstock

Retroviruses belong to the family Retroviridiae that includes the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV). Both of them are zoonotic viruses that have spilled over into humans from non-human primates.

Knowledge of bat retroviruses has been growing over the last two decades due to discovering retroviral sequences within the bat genome. These sequences are present due to the key features of the retroviral replication cycle that includes the synthesis of complementary DNA (cDNA) and its integration into the host genome, giving rise to a provirus. These proviruses occasionally get fixed to the host species' gene pool, giving rise to endogenous retrovirus (ERV). The ERVs eventually accumulate mutations, become fragmented, defective, and incapable of producing viral proteins. Thus, these ERVs act as genomic fossils that help to provide the history of retroviral infections in animals and humans and currently circulating exogenous retroviruses (XRV).

The COVID-19 pandemic provided a new stimulus to identify the potential viral threats brought about in the future by bats. This study published in the ASM Journals reviews how bats were affected by retroviruses and the current exogenous retroviruses circulating in bats. It also helps to determine whether the retroviral sequences found in the host belong to the endogenous or exogenous viruses. Additionally, the ability of bats to receive and transmit retroviruses from other species is also examined, along with whether the exogenous viruses in bats will pose a threat to humans.

Retrospective study of bat retroviruses

The earliest association between bats and retroviruses was studied in cell lines from the lung tissue of the Brazilian free-tailed bat, which suggested that bat cells are susceptible to retroviral infection from diverse mammalian species.

Culture-independent methods such as high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies and PCR were used to discover these retroviruses. The first report of retroviral sequence in bats was published in 2004 that described the presence of an ERV from genus Betaretrovirus within the genome of rodents. In 2008 a defective ERV was identified from genus Gammaretrovirus in little brown bats.

The adoption of HTS technology has led to the discovery of various betaretroviruses and gammaretroviruses across different bat species. In 2020, the first confirmed detection of bat XRV, the Hervey pteropid gammaretrovirus (HPG), took place in the feces of black flying fox. Researchers have also indicated that bat restriction factors play an important role in establishing a relationship between retroviruses and bats.

Role of bats in cross-species transmission

Cross-species transmission of retroviruses between different mammals is common. Bat retroviruses are thus no exception. Gamma and betaretroviruses, also referred to as class I and II ERV, can be transmitted to other animal species.

Analysis of thousands of ERVs across 69 mammalian genomes indicates that bat retroviruses have a major role as hosts of mammalian retroviruses. Being the only mammal that can fly, bats are of increased importance in spreading mammalian viruses. Bats can provide a hypothetical transmission route because flight allows them to cross physical barriers impenetrable to other mammals. Bats are also capable of traveling for long distances as well as can cross several biogeographical areas.

One such example is the black flying fox, the host of HPG whose habitat ranges across the oceanic faunal boundary known as the Wallace line. HPG is a close relative of gibbon ape leukemia virus (GALV) and koala retrovirus (KoRV), whose hosts are koalas and gibbons that originate in Southeast Asia and Australia and thus are separated by the Wallace line.

FIG 2 Distribution of bats from which retroviral sequences have been reported. Geographical regions hosting bat species with reported retroviral sequences are separated by color and labeled as follows: AC, Central Asia; AE, Eastern Asia; AN, Northern Asia; AS, Southern Asia; AU, Australia; AW, Western Asia; CA, Central Africa; CM, Central America; EA, Eastern Africa; EU, Europe; NA, Northern Africa; NM, Northern America and the Caribbean; SA, Southern Africa; SE, South East Asia; SM, Southern America; TA, Taiwan; WA, Western Africa. Regions in gray have not had reported bat retroviral sequences. A biogeographical boundary, the Wallace line, is indicated by the red dashed line. The hosts of two confirmed bat exogenous retroviruses (XRVs), the black flying fox (Pteropus alecto), and the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) are pictured. Black Flying Fox - Pteropus Alecto by Andrew Mercer available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Black_Flying_Fox_-_Pteropus_alecto_-_(IMG_4883).jpg under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0. Big Brown Bat by John MacGregor available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Big_brown_bat_crawl.png under a Creative Commons Public Domain Mark 1.0.

Are bat retroviruses a threat to humans?

The retroviruses that affect humans are HIV and HTLV, although other retroviruses also infected the ancestors of humans. Recent bat XVRs include the delta and gammaretroviruses. HTLV is a deltaretrovirus, whereas Gammaretroviruses are not known to infect humans.

While no evidence of infection has been found with Eptesicus fuscus deltaretrovirus (EfDRV,) its close relatives HTLV and bovine leukemia virus (BLV) have the potential to infect humans. BLV utilizes the CAT1 receptor to gain entry into the cells and has been found to replicate in human cells in vitro, while HTLV is a well-known human pathogen.

HPG is a close relative of GALV and KoRV and, like them, utilizes the PiT-1 receptor to gain entry into the cells. HPG is capable of infecting human cells in vitro as well as release viral particles into the cell. However, this does not ensure that the virus can cause disease in humans.

Interspecies transmission of retroviruses can occur through various routes, such as food contamination by urine or feces, or blood. It can thus be concluded that the transmission of retroviruses from bats to humans requires fulfillment of various conditions and most often takes place via an intermediate host.

Conclusion

Thus, it can be concluded that transmission of retroviruses from bats to humans is not yet very common. But continuous surveillance of bats should be carried out to identify any novel retrovirus and investigate their biological and infectious property, which will help determine its proactiveness in zoonotic spillover. Current challenges in the study of bats and the isolation of viruses should be overcome to gain insight into the retroviruses capable of transmission to humans and provide preventive measures against them.
Chichi Okafor, a 30-year-old Nigerian woman, unexpectedly became pregnant again before her daughter turned six months old.

Although Okafor knew about using condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancies, she felt powerless.

My husband does not like it, so we resorted to the withdrawal method, Okafor says. I am three months pregnant. It has been hell juggling to take care of my daughter and dealing with the new pregnancy.

A withdrawal method is an old approach for preventing pregnancies by attempting to ensure that ejaculation occurs outside of a womans genitals.

The use of modern contraceptives and optimal breastfeeding can help to reduce the adverse effect of short birth spacing.

Kehabtimer Shiferaw Kotiso, Wolaita Sodo University

Okafors story is an example of how failure to use contraceptives, coupled with short durations of breastfeedingwhich can be effective for birth control is fueling short birth spacing in Sub-Sharan Africa, says Kehabtimer Shiferaw Kotiso, a lecturer at the College of Health Sciences and Medicine at Wolaita Sodo University, in Ethiopia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends waiting at least two years after a live birth and six months after miscarriage or induced termination before having another pregnancy.

But in a study published in PLOS ONE last month involving 496 pregnant women in Northern Ethiopia, 205 fell pregnant less than 24 months after live birth, with 24 participants getting pregnant less than 12 months after live birth.

According to the study, 196 participants did not use modern contraceptives before their current pregnancy. It found that 108 participants had an unintended pregnancy, with 49 of them breastfeeding their first child for less than 12 months.

Kehabtimer, a co-author of the study, says that in a similar study conducted on 340 women in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, 224 out of 340 pregnant women had short birth spaces.

Kehabtimer explains that short birth space leads to worse child health outcomes, including low birth weight, stillbirth, intellectual disability, and developmental delay.

The use of modern contraceptives and optimal breastfeeding can help to reduce the adverse effect of short birth spacing on maternal and infant health outcomes, Kehabtimer adds.

He is calling on the African government to embark on sensitization campaigns as many African women remain unaware of the benefit of modern contraceptives.

Stakeholders should find the root causes of why most women who are aware of family planning are not taking up a method and address them, he tells SciDev.Net.

A 2020 study of eight countries in Sub-Saharan Africa including Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe found significantly shorter birth spacing in Western and Central Africa compared with East and Southern African countries. Chad and the Democratic Republic of Congo had the highest prevalence of short spacing about 30 percent and 27 percent respectively.

Women who are educated are more likely to favour [a] long birth interval compared to those who are uneducated, explains the study published in the journal Medicine. This is not surprising given that educated women are more knowledgeable about contraceptives compared to uneducated women, which will help them to avoid unplanned pregnancy.

Duduyemi Adeola, state program coordinator for The Challenge Initiative, in Lagos, tells SciDev.Net that there should be a continuous push for integration of family planning across all maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health, plus nutrition services at the primary health care level, and greater collaboration with the private health sector.
Laws designed to help women with increased risk for missed breast cancer diagnoses may help catch the disease earlier, according to Penn State College of Medicine researchers. They studied how notification and insurance coverage legislation for women with dense breast tissue affects the stage at which their cancer is diagnosed.

More than 40% of women in the United States between 40 and 74 years old are at increased risk for breast cancer because they have dense breast tissue. It is difficult to detect breast cancer in these women via traditional mammograms, so follow up screenings are sometimes recommended by doctors.

As of January 2021, more than 27 states and the District of Columbia require some level of notification be given to women with dense breast tissue detected during a mammogram. In addition, only 11 states and the District of Columbia have legislation that covers the supplemental cancer screenings that are recommended for these women. Pennsylvania has both types of mandates in place.

Helping at-risk women get access to supplemental screenings is essential. It's important to evaluate whether these policies are achieving their intended goal  to help improve patient health outcomes." Gene Lengerich, Study Author and Associate Director for Health Disparities and Engagement, Penn State Cancer Institute

Assessing more than 689,000 breast cancer cases between 2005 and 2016 from a National Cancer Institute database, the researchers studied how state legislation on dense breast notification and supplemental screening affected the stage of cancer at diagnosis and how the laws affected various age or race and ethnicity groups.

The researchers found that notification legislation was overall not significantly associated with lower odds of being diagnosed at a more advanced cancer stage. Instead, they found that insurance coverage legislation was associated with a decreased chance of being diagnosed at a later stage. The research team said younger women tended to benefit more from the insurance coverage laws than older women.

The researchers also identified racial disparities when studying the effects of the policies. Notification laws benefited Hispanic women  who had 11% lower odds of being diagnosed at late stage as a result. They also found that notification and insurance coverage legislation had no impacts for Black women.

According to the researchers, breast density legislation only impacts women who receive initial screening mammograms. They said that because Black women are more likely to have dense breast tissue and are less likely to get a mammogram, methods to better communicate to this at-risk population should be explored in future. The results were published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

"This study illustrates that policies and legislation are just one piece of the complex puzzle of factors contributing to patient care," said Chan Shen, division chief of outcomes research and quality in the Department of Surgery and associate professor of surgery and public health sciences. "In the future, we will continue to investigate how targeted communications and efforts like patient navigation  where specially-trained staff help patients overcome obstacles needed to receive optimal medical care  can help improve health care among specific age and race groups."
There are currently 850,000 people with dementia in the UK and this number is projected to double to two million by 2050.

Image Credit: Tunstall Healthcare

People living with dementia generally need more support from care providers than those without dementia. Its therefore crucial for caregivers to understand how technology can help people living with dementia maintain their independence, stay safe and remain active.

Smart solutions and assistive technology can help to protect the safety of service users with dementia, especially where individuals are particularly frail or at risk of falls. This Alzheimers Month (September 2021) Zillah Moore, Director at Tunstall Healthcare, discusses the vital role technology can play in supporting people with dementia, and those who care for them.

A range of solutions

Technology is crucial in enabling the delivery of care, which means people living with dementia can enjoy more independence for an extended period of time. It can also help to relieve the pressure on carers, reducing stress and enabling them to care for longer. As our social care and health systems continue to experience limited budgets and rising demand, its becoming increasingly important that providers employ solutions which enable care to be delivered in a more effective and person-centred way.

Technology can be tailored to the needs of the individual, helping to manage events such as falls, medication management, and people leaving their home and being unable to find their way back. Devices and systems, including wearable alarms, can be configured to ensure help is automatically provided in the event of an emergency, 24 hours a day, from a carer, response service or the emergency services.

They can also enable carers to carry out daily activities, spend more time socialising with service users, or have uninterrupted sleep in the case of home carers, as they know they will be alerted in the event of an incident. The earlier technology is introduced to someones dementia journey, the easier it is to understand health and care outcomes and how support can be given, enabling greater patient-centred care.

New digital technologies provide greater levels of connectivity which enables the smooth integration of services, and empowers care providers to better manage the health and wellbeing of service users with dementia. This not only improves their quality of life, but also reduces costs, the number of GP visits, ambulance callouts and hospital admissions.

Telecare in practice

The Hertfordshire Telecare Service supports almost 4,000 people in Hertfordshire to live more independently, many of whom have dementia.

Norman has vascular dementia, and lives alone, although his daughter lives nearby. Technology is helping him to remain safe at home, and provide reassurance to his daughter. Unobtrusive telecare sensors in his home will automatically raise an alarm at the 24 hour monitoring centre if they detect floods, fires or carbon monoxide in Normans home, and property exit sensors have also been fitted which will notify the centre if an external door is opened. A specially trained operator at the centre can then talk to Norman through the speaker on the Lifeline unit to assess the situation, and make sure Norman is okay. If the operator is unable to get a response, they can contact Normans daughter, or the British Red Cross Responder Service so they can check on him.

Normans daughter has also given her father a GPS tracker device, which enables her to locate him should he leave home and be unable to find his way back. Together with the Telecare Service, this has already helped Norman to be found quickly and returned to his home, avoiding him being at risk. It also means that Norman is able to remain in his own home, rather than being admitted to residential care for his own safety, whilst giving his family peace of mind.

This in turn relieves pressures on care homes and their employees, as telecare enables more people like Norman to live at home.

Integration is key

Although technology is a fantastic resource when it comes to reducing the pressures on carers at home and in facilities and the needs of users, it should never be used to completely replace human interaction and care. Technological solutions should always be connected to the wider cycles of care within housing, health and social care to reap as many benefits as possible, and be designed with the people using them at their heart.
With the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants such as beta and delta, people are not only getting a refresher course on the Greek alphabet but also experiencing confusion and anxiety about what the variants mean for public health. A new article in Chemical & Engineering News (C&EN), the weekly newsmagazine of the American Chemical Society, asks scientists to weigh in on the changing coronavirus landscape.

Only a few months ago, many people in countries with sufficient supplies of COVID-19 vaccines felt that the worst of the pandemic was behind them, write C&EN staff Laura Howes and Ryan Cross. However, emerging variants have made SARS-CoV-2 a moving target, and scientists are scrambling to characterize the new viruses to determine whether natural or vaccine immunity can still offer protection.

The public is often confused by conflicting news stories about the latest coronavirus discoveries. And some of these stories are based on papers that have been shared on preprint servers and have thus not yet undergone peer review, meaning that their findings have not been as thoroughly vetted as those published in scientific journals.

To help clarify the situation, C&EN consulted a dozen scientists to learn how they study new variants in the lab, how to evaluate the latest research, and whether the vaccines are still working.

To determine whether a new variant is better able to evade the immune system, researchers rely on multiple types of lab tests, which usually involve taking antibodies from fully vaccinated people or those who have recovered from COVID-19 and seeing how well they fight the virus.

Epidemiologists gauge a variant's infectiousness by calculating how many people on average each infected person will get sick: For the original SARS-CoV-2, this number was 23; for delta, it's 67. For now, mRNA vaccines appear to be preventing hospitalization and death from the delta variant, but mild, breakthrough infections are occurring.

For immunocompromised people and older adults who don't produce a lot of antibodies, booster shots will be important to prevent severe illness, experts say. Meanwhile, vaccine makers are hard at work on new versions tailored to beta and delta variants. Although SARS-CoV-2 is likely here to stay, widespread vaccination could help COVID-19 morph into a seasonal nuisance rather than a public health emergency, scientists say.
Pell City, AL (35125)

Today

Cloudy skies with periods of rain this afternoon. High near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Overcast with showers at times. Low 67F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Jeffersonville, IN (47130)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning followed by scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 79F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy. Low near 65F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
The Moving Wall, a half-size duplicate of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be open to the public Sept. 16-20 on the grounds of Wayne Community College.
Goldsboro, NC (27530)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 89F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Low 69F. Winds light and variable.
(Newser)  Apple has been working on a car project since 2014, but little is publicly known about its progress; the company hasn't acknowledged its existence. However it's doing, Project Titan appears to have been slowed now that Ford has hired the project's top executive, the Guardian reports. Doug Field is the fourth senior member of Apple's project to quit since February. At Ford, he'll be in charge of advanced technology and embedded systems. Field referenced the changes coming to the industry in a statement about his hiring. "It will be a privilege to help Ford deliver a new generation of experiences built on the shift to electrification, software and digital experiences, and autonomy," he said.

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Field's resume includes leading the development of Tesla's Model 3. He had left Apple earlier for Tesla but returned in 2018 after Apple reportedly dropped plans for building cars and switched its attention to software for autonomous driving, per CNBC. He told reporters Tuesday that he won't discuss Apple products, but said, "Theres nothing that prevents me from being fully engaged at Ford, and Im looking forward to using everything I've learned" from the companies and teams he's worked with.

The executive said he decided to jump when he realized how committed Ford is to producing connected vehicles in particular. That's part of the automaker's turnaround plan, which includes providing software services to producing recurring revenue. Field also will supervise integrating products with smartphones, watches and other technology. Apple wished him well in a statement, and Ford CEO Jim Farley called Field's hiring a "watershed moment" for his company. (Read more Ford Motor Co. stories.)
(Newser)  We're still in the midst of a pandemic, but over the past year, more of us headed back to in-person work, school, and other activities, meaning more of us were again driving. New data from two major safety groups, however, show that we could use some refresher courses behind the wheel, with a spike in car deaths in individual states and across the country overall.

US numbers: Last week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released new stats that showed an estimated 8,730 Americans died in car accidents in the first three months of 2021, reports Reuters. Compared to the 7,900 deaths seen during the same period in 2020, that's a 10.5% increase, even with a 2.1% decline in driving miles. Meanwhile, for all of 2020, there were nearly 39,000 traffic deathsthe largest annual total since 2007.

Last week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released new stats that showed an estimated 8,730 Americans died in car accidents in the first three months of 2021, reports Reuters. Compared to the 7,900 deaths seen during the same period in 2020, that's a 10.5% increase, even with a 2.1% decline in driving miles. Meanwhile, for all of 2020, there were nearly 39,000 traffic deathsthe largest annual total since 2007. 8 states that saw a jump: CBS News pulls out states that experienced at least a 30% increase in car deaths in the first six months of 2021, compared with the same time period in 2020, per preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council. Those states, and their jumps, as follows: Oregon , with 261 deaths (51% increase); South Dakota with 65 (51%); Minnesota with 211 (41%); Idaho with 107 (39%); Nevada with 181 (38%); Utah with 150 (36%); Vermont with 28 (33%); and Tennessee with 682 (30%).

CBS News pulls out states that experienced at least a 30% increase in car deaths in the first six months of 2021, compared with the same time period in 2020, per preliminary estimates from the National Safety Council. Those states, and their jumps, as follows: , with 261 deaths (51% increase); with 65 (51%); with 211 (41%); with 107 (39%); with 181 (38%); with 150 (36%); with 28 (33%); and with 682 (30%). 6 states that saw a decline: Maine had just 54 deaths, a 22% drop, while Kansas had 166 (-19%), Alaska 22 (-8%), Rhode Island 32 (-6%), Connecticut 147 (-1%), and Wisconsin 242 (-1%).

had just 54 deaths, a 22% drop, while had 166 (-19%), 22 (-8%), 32 (-6%), 147 (-1%), and 242 (-1%). Reasons: NHTSA regulators say fatality factors include people speeding and not wearing seat belts, impaired driving, and even motorists engaging in reckless behavior because they thought cops would be less likely to hand out tickets during a pandemic. National Transportation Safety Board chief Jennifer Homendy tells Reuters the rise in traffic deaths is a "terrible situation" that needs to be addressed ASAP.

NHTSA regulators say fatality factors include people speeding and not wearing seat belts, impaired driving, and even motorists engaging in reckless behavior because they thought cops would be less likely to hand out tickets during a pandemic. National Transportation Safety Board chief Jennifer Homendy tells Reuters the rise in traffic deaths is a "terrible situation" that needs to be addressed ASAP. Tips for safe driving: Toward Homendy's point, the NSC offers pointers. Waste360 details some of those tips, including buckling up, slowing down, and making it a priority to drive distraction-free.

Check out the full report here . (Read more fatal car crashes stories.)
(Newser)  As one might imagine, former President Trump was not pleased with Virginia's removal of a Robert E. Lee statue Wednesday. "To add insult to injury, those who support this taking now plan to cut it into three pieces, and throw this work of art into storage prior to its complete desecration," Trump said in a statement cited by the Hill and other outlets. Saying Lee is considered by many to be the "greatest strategist" of all time, Trump said, "President Lincoln wanted him to command the North, in which case the war would have been over in one day. Robert E. Lee instead chose the other side because of his great love of Virginia, and except for Gettysburg, would have won the war."

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He went on to claim that if Lee had been in charge, the US would have experienced victory in Afghanistan years ago. "Our culture is being destroyed and our history and heritage, both good and bad, are being extinguished by the Radical Left, and we can't let that happen!" Fox News notes that the Lee statue was actually cut into two pieces for storage, not three, and Politico calls the entire statement "historically inaccurate." Trump called Lee "perhaps the greatest unifying force after the war was over," but Politico points out historians have criticized attempts by some to paint Lee and the Southern cause as noble. (Read more Donald Trump stories.)
(Newser)  Supporters of the hundreds of people arrested after the Jan. 6 Capitol attack are planning to gather outside the building on Sept. 18and law enforcement agencies including the Capitol Police are braced for trouble at the "Justice for J6" rally. According to a Capitol Police memo seen by CNN, there has been a rise in violent rhetoric online about the event, with some viewing it as a "Justice for Ashli Babbitt" rally. The DC police force has been fully activated. The Capitol force says all available officers will be working that day and assistance has been requested from police forces in Maryland and Virginia, though unlike on Jan. 6, when Congress met to certify President Biden's win, few lawmakers are expected to be at the Capitol on Sept. 18. More:

Officials plan to reinstall fencing. A source tells the AP that the Capitol force has formally requested the reinstallation of temporary fencing that was put around the complex after the Jan. 6 riot, and the request is likely to be granted. The fencing was in place for months after the attack.

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Greene, Cawthorn won't be there . Politico reports that GOP Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Madison Cawthorn, who have described people arrested in connection with the riot as "political prisoners," will not be at the rally, according to spokespeople. A spokesperson for Rep. Matt Gaetz declined to comment.

. Politico reports that GOP Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Madison Cawthorn, who have described people arrested in connection with the riot as "political prisoners," will not be at the rally, according to spokespeople. A spokesperson for Rep. Matt Gaetz declined to comment. Pelosi speaks out. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Wednesday that lawmakers will be briefed on security plans, and "we intend to have the integrity of the Capitol be intact," the Hill reports. "What happened on Jan. 6 was such an assault on this beautiful Capitol," Pelosi said. "And now these people are coming back to praise the people who were out to kill."

Organizer insists it will be peaceful . Lead organizer Matt Braynard, a former Trump campaign worker who founded the Look Ahead America group, says the rally will not be violent. "This is a completely peaceful protest," he tells CNN's Jessica Schneider. "And we have told people that when they come, we don't want to see any messaging about the election, we don't want to see any messaging on T-shirts and flags or signs about candidates or anything like that." He blames the Jan. 6 violence on a "few bad actors" and claims the "vast majority of people were exercising their First Amendment rights at a public building."

. Lead organizer Matt Braynard, a former Trump campaign worker who founded the Look Ahead America group, says the rally will not be violent. "This is a completely peaceful protest," he tells CNN's Jessica Schneider. "And we have told people that when they come, we don't want to see any messaging about the election, we don't want to see any messaging on T-shirts and flags or signs about candidates or anything like that." He blames the Jan. 6 violence on a "few bad actors" and claims the "vast majority of people were exercising their First Amendment rights at a public building." Proud Boys told to stay away. Braynard denies that his organization has links to the Proud Boys or similar groups. The Proud Boys recently advised members to stay away from rally, saying it "sounds like bait," though members of some factions may still turn up, the Washington Post reports.

(Read more Capitol Police stories.)
(Newser)  The Biden administration has ousted 18 people former President Trump appointed to military academy advisory boards in his final months in officeand some of them aren't going quietly. Trump allies including former press secretary Sean Spicer received letters Wednesday saying their positions would be terminated at 6pm that day if they didn't resign first. It's not clear whether any of them resigned before the deadline, the AP reports. Spicer, a Newsmax anchor, said on the network Wednesday night that he will not resign and he plans to sue Biden over his ousting from the Naval Academy board, reports Insider.

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Spicer and former White House counselor Kellyanne Conway accused Biden of firing Trump appointees to distract from the Afghanistan withdrawal and other issues. Conway, who was on the Air Force Academy board, tweeted that Biden should resign instead, calling the ousting "petty and political." Democratic Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeted that Conway's reaction was "predictable." "Clinging onto vestiges of power against the peoples will is kind of your /Trumps / the GOPs thing," she said. "When youre fired, dont let the fascist victim complex hit you on the way out."

White House press secretary Jen Psaki confirmed Wednesday that the letters had been sent. She said Biden's objective, as with any president, is to "have nominees and people serving on these boards who are qualified to serve on them and who are aligned with your values," per CNN. Spicer, who joined the US Navy Reserve in 1999 and holds the rank of commander, angrily addressed Psaki's remarks on Newsmax, saying, "Dont you dare ever minimize or question my service to this nation, you got it? "

Board members, who are usually appointed to three-year terms, meet several times a year and provide advice to the academies and the president. Washington lawyer John Coale, who was appointed to the Naval Academy board, tells Politico that he is "pissed off" about getting fired before he could attend a single meeting. Retired Gen. Jack Keane, who was on the West Point board, says it is "very disappointing" that Biden isn't upholding the previous administration's appointees, which had been "pretty much the tradition." (Read more Biden administration stories.)
(Newser)  Fire and smoke alarms sounded on a Russian segment of the International Space Station early Thursday as the smell of burnt plastic drifted into the US section. Russian space agency Roscosmos described an issue in the Zvezda module, which houses living quarters and has lately been dealing with an air leak, that apparently occurred as the space station's batteries were being recharged. French astronaut Thomas Pesquet said "the smell of burning plastic or electronic equipment" reached the US segment of the station, Russian state news agency RIA Novosti reported, citing a NASA broadcast, per AFP.

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Roscosmos said the two cosmonauts on board, Oleg Novitskiy and Pyotr Dubrov, activated an air filter that returned the air quality to normal before returning to "night rest," per the AP. "All systems are operating normally," the agency added. The issue, the latest to affect the aging space station, occurred only hours before the cosmonauts are to embark on a six-hour space walk to prepare the Nauka module for operations following its troublesome arrival in July. It ended up blasting the space station out of position in an incident Russian officials attributed to a software failure. Roscosmos said the space walk would go ahead as planned. Live coverage is to begin at 10:30am ET. (Read more International Space Station stories.)
(Newser)  Jennifer Lawrence is pregnant with her first child. A rep for the Don't Look Up actor confirmed she and her husband, Cooke Maroney, are expecting a baby together, per USA Today, though it's unclear when that baby is due. The rep said no other information would be provided. The 31-year-old actor married Maroney, 37director of the Gladstone Gallery, an art gallery with locations in New York City, Los Angeles, and Brusselsat a mansion in Newport, RI, in October 2019, about a year and a half after they began dating. "He's the greatest person I've ever met, so I feel very honored to become a Maroney," Lawrence said in June 2019 while appearing on the Naked With Catt Sadler podcast, per People. Us Weekly offers a timeline of their relationship so far. (Read more Jennifer Lawrence stories.)
(Newser)  Two women and a man allegedly stole the identities of seven victims of the condominium collapse in Surfside, Fla., in the days after the tragedy and spent thousands of dollars on shoes and a Versace purse. Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle described the suspectsBetsy Alexandra Cacho-Medina, 30; her boyfriend, Rodney Choute, 38; and Kimberly Michelle Johnson, 34as "very skilled" and professional identity thieves at a news conference, noting they'd spent $45,000 and tried to spend $65,000 more.

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It was just 16 days after the collapse of the Champlain Towers South buildingas crews worked to recover and identify the remains of those killedthat a sister of a woman who died noticed a request that replacement credit cards be sent to a new address, reports NBC News. She also reported fraudulent purchases and unauthorized wire transfers. An investigation by local law enforcement, US Marshals, the Secret Service, and the US Postal Inspection Service revealed the three suspects had targeted five deceased victims and two survivors of the collapse, and possibly others, Fernandez Rundle said.

"Cyber grave robbers did move very quickly after the collapse to grab what they could while family and friends were in absolute emotional turmoil," she said, per Reuters. She added surveillance video connected one of the suspects to a vehicle that was registered to an empty apartment used to receive mail. Surveillance video also showed one of the suspects carrying a Versace purse, which she'd purchased for $1,658, while making a $2,500 purchase, which included three pairs of shoes, Fernandez Rundle said. The three, who also allegedly carried fake Social Security cards, face charges including identity theft, organized scheme to defraud, and trafficking in credit cards. (Read more identity theft stories.)
(Newser)  Relatives say Chicago woman Marina Verbitsky was worried about her son missing school when she was told she'd missed her flight home from Florida. Her actions at the boarding gate could put her behind bars until after he graduates. Police say the 46-year-old swore at JetBlue employees at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport when they told her she'd arrived too late to board the plane Monday nightand when she was told her checked luggage was already on the plane, she claimed it contained a bomb. The aircraft, which was already taxiing on the runway, was evacuated while authorities searched for explosives, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports. No bomb was found.

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Verbitsky was taken to jail and she faces one count of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive, or weapon of mass destruction, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years. A judge set bail at $10,000 and ordered Verbitsky to undergo a mental health evaluation. "It was a mistake," a relative tells the Chicago Sun-Times. "She was nervous about the son needing to go to school. It was a mess but it was definitely not meant to be." Her husband and son, who arrived at the boarding gate with her, weren't charged. (A 74-year-old Canadian man was arrested after making a similar threat at the same airport in July.)
(Newser)  Women under 25 in France will soon get birth controlincluding the pill, IUDs, contraceptive patches, and other methodsfor free. President Emmanuel Macron's government said Thursday that it would expand an existing program offering free contraception to women under 18 beginning next year as affordability is proving an issue. Health Minister Olivier Veran said surveys showed a decline in contraception use among "a certain number of young women" whose "main reason for this is financial. It costs too much," per AFP and the Guardian. He said visits to a doctor for reasons related to contraception would also be free for women under 25.

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"This will cover hormonal contraception, biological tests that go with it, the prescription of contraception and all care related to this contraception up until the age of 25," Veran told France 2, per the Guardian. "It is unbearable that women cannot protect themselves, cannot have access to contraception if they want to make that choice because it is too expensive," Veran added, per Deutsche Welle. He said the cut-off age of 25 was chosen as women of that age are no longer covered by their parents health insurance and generally have more financial independence.

The government began offering free contraception to girls aged 15 to 18 in 2013, per the Guardian. This resulted in a drop in the number of abortions among this age group, from 9.5 per 1,000 girls in 2012 to six per 1,000 girls in 2018, per AFP. France then expanded the program to include all women under 18 in August 2020. The latest expansionto take effect on Jan. 1 ahead of national elections later in 2022is expected to cost almost $25 million per year. Abortions are already free for all women and girls in France, per the AP. The outlet notes Britain, Spain, and several other European countries also offer free or subsidized contraception. (Read more birth control stories.)
(Newser)  As he has threatened to do, former President Trump endorsed another Republican in Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney's reelection battle. Trump emailed a statement Thursday backing Harriet Hageman, who was the state's national Republican committeewoman until this week, Politico reports. "Harriet has my Complete and Total endorsement in Replacing the Democrats number one provider of sound bites, Liz Cheney," he wrote. Cheney answered on Twitter with "Here's a sound bite for you: Bring it." She was similarly defiant before when the possibility of Trump's opposition came up.

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Cheney has been on Trump's list since she voted to impeach him for his role in the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. She was a member of the House GOP leadership at the time, making her the highest-ranking Republican to vote for impeachment. Trump referred to her as a "disloyal Republican" in his statement, as well as a "warmonger," per CNN. Cheney hasn't let up in her criticism of Trump since then, and has been appointed vice chairwoman of the House committee investigating the Capitol riot. Trump now has endorsed challengers to four of the 10 Republicans who voted to impeach him.

Hageman has supported Cheney in the past; she was a senior adviser when Cheney ran for Senate in 2013. In 2016, Hageman was a Ted Cruz delegate in his presidential run. In his statement Thursday, Trump said that she has "the support and respect of a truly great US Senator, Wyoming's own Cynthia Lummis." That might have been news to Lummis, who described Hageman as "a fabulous choice for President Trump" to the Washington Examiner. "I'm just leaving it at that," Loomis said. "Take my statement at face value. That's all Im saying." There are other Republicans in the Wyoming race, as well. (Read more Liz Cheney stories.)
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(Newser)  One day after a judge blocked Florida from enforcing its ban on mask mandates, the administration of Gov. Ron DeSantis filed an emergency appeal. If successful, the Republican's filing would keep the ban in effect while the courts decide the issue, CNN reports. Some school districts in the state are requiring students to wear face masks to curb the spread of the coronavirus despite DeSantis' prohibition. The governor's lawyers argue that the judge should have let the ban remain in place during the appeals court process because DeSantis has "a high likelihood of success on appeal."

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Attorneys for the parents of schoolchildren fighting the mask mandate ban have to file their response to DeSantis' latest filing by Thursday night. His lawyers argue that there are no school district policies forbidding students to wear masks as it is. In response to the judge's decision, the Lake County School Board voted Thursday to require masks at schools that post a COVID-19 transmission rate above 5% for at least two weeks. The requirement would be in place for two weeks, per ClickOrlando. Otherwise, masks are optional in the school district. (Read more Ron DeSantis stories.)
(Newser)  The Justice Department is suing Texas over its new state law prohibiting most abortions, arguing that it was enacted "in open defiance of the Constitution." The lawsuit, filed Thursday in federal court in Texas, asks a federal judge to declare that the law is invalid, "to enjoin its enforcement, and to protect the rights that Texas has violated," the AP reports. The Texas law prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activityusually around six weeks, often before a woman knows she's pregnant. Courts have blocked other states from imposing similar restrictions, but Texas' law differs significantly because it leaves enforcement to private citizens through civil lawsuits instead of criminal prosecutors.

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Pressure had been mounting on the Justice Department not only from the White HousePresident Biden has said the law is "almost un-American"but also from Democrats in Congress, who wanted Attorney General Merrick Garland to take action. Earlier this week, Garland promised the Justice Department would step in to enforce a federal law known as the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act. That law, commonly known as the FACE Act, normally prohibits physically obstructing access to abortion clinics by blocking entrances or threatening to use force to intimidate or interfere with someone. It also prohibits damaging property at abortion clinics and other reproductive health centers. (South Dakota's governor wants a law like the Texas one.)
Shamokin, PA (17872)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms becoming likely this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 82F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm this evening, then some lingering showers still possible overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Fairbanks, AK (99707)

Today

Sunshine and a few afternoon clouds. High 58F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low near 35F. Winds light and variable.
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TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, emphasised the importance of furthering cooperation and coordination between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the UAE to achieve growth and prosperity, and benefit both countries and their peoples.

HRH Prince Salman commended the depth of bilateral cooperation within the economic and financial sectors.

This came as HRH the Crown Pince and Prime Minister yesterday received the CEO of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, Saeed Hamad Al Dhaheri, at Riffa Palace.

His Royal Highness highlighted the strength of relations between the two countries, which continues to receive the support of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

His Royal Highness also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation through encouraging and developing mutual investment opportunities as well as facilitating increased bilateral financial and commercial exchange between private and public partnerships.

The meeting was also attended by the Chairman of the Rashid Equestrian and Horse Racing Club High Committee, HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Ambassador of the UAE to Bahrain, Shaikh Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Minister of Finance and National Economy, Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Zayed Al Zayani.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain is committed to fulfilling all its obligations stipulated in international agreements related to the field of nuclear security.

It will also support all efforts made by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to consolidate the principle of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, in a manner that serves to enhance the stability and security of the region and the world at large.

This was the assurance made by Council of Representatives Speaker Fawzia bint Abdullah Zainal who participated in a meeting organised by the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation and the IAEA on the sidelines of the Fifth World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in the Austrian capital Vienna.

The Speaker affirmed the Kingdoms ability to benefit from nuclear energy for peaceful uses in the fields of power generation, medical treatment, healthcare, agriculture, food preservation, industry and research, among others. She pointed out that Bahrain possesses enough legislation and specialised committees to take the initiative in the field of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and its keenness to ensure a safe environment from nuclear dangers and adopt precautionary measures.

Zainal called for strengthening cooperation and joint coordination between parliaments, IAEA and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) to formulate the necessary legislation that supports international efforts to combat the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

During the meeting, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi reviewed the main areas of work of the agency as the global centre for cooperation in the nuclear field.

He explained the work of the IAEA, which is of particular importance to the conference, including post-pandemic recovery and achieving sustainable development goals, climate change and gender equality.

Grossi also touched on the importance of universal adherence to multilateral treaties related to nuclear safety and security, nuclear non-proliferation, civil liability for nuclear damage, and the special role of parliaments in ensuring their ratification.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain and the US reiterated the importance of strategic cooperation, particularly in the defence, military and humanitarian fields. They noted their countries role in supporting peace, security and stability in the Arabian Gulf region and the Middle East.

This came as Foreign Minister Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani held a joint press conference with US Defence Secretary Lloyd James Austin III, on a visit to the Kingdom.

Austin congratulated His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on signing the Abraham Peace Accords, stressing the importance of the agreement in supporting regional peace and stability.

The two sides also discussed the importance of building on these agreements to further dialogue and coexistence in the regional, stressing the importance of Mideast peace and stability for the international security.

Bahrain and the US reiterated their commitment to combat terrorism and target those who harbor terrorists, said Dr Al Zayani, adding that both sides attach a great importance to their partnership.

The US official had held meetings with HM the King and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The two sides discussed the developments unfolding in Afghanistan and their potential spillover on regional security and stability. Austin stressed his countrys appreciation for Bahrains support to humanitarian efforts to evacuate people who transited the Kingdom before heading to the US, which showed the importance of joint cooperation between the two countries.

Austin stressed solid bilateral relations and stressed his keen interest in further strengthening defence partnership, reiterating thanks to Bahrain for hosting the US forces.

He noted his meeting with the BDF Commander-in-Chief Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, hailing support to the Allies Refuge operation and commitment to enhancing US-Bahrain defence partnership
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) has delivered the second shipment of emergency humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, a few days following the first supplies.

The humanitarian assistance was provided upon directives from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the continuous support of HM the King's Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

HH Shaikh Nasser hailed HM the King's humanitarian initiatives to supply relief to the afflicted all around the world and praised the support the RHF has from the government headed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The RHF is honoured to implement the royal directives amid prayers for peace, prosperity and stability for Afghanistan and its people, he added.

RHF Secretary-General Dr. Mustafa Al Sayed confirmed that the shipment is a continuation of the Bahraini humanitarian efforts to provide aid to Afghanistan and that it includes much-needed medical, food and relief supplies.

He said that in accordance with the royal directives, the RHF continues to provide help to the Afghani people, which is expected as HM the King has always been keen to help those afflicted from all over the world.

The secretary-general said that the RHF had sent an urgent relief shipment and that two additional shipments would be dispatched soon.

The Afghan government representative lauded HM the King's initiative to support the Afghani people, praising the supplies sent by Bahrain that will meet the citizens' needs.
Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks that killed nearly 3,000 Americans, including 161 Connecticut residents. Ceremonies remembering the victims and first responders will be held at monuments, schools and other locations across the Danbury area.

Bethel

Bethels fire companies will hold a 9/11 ceremony Saturday outside the Clifford J. Hurgin Municipal Center, 1 School St., beginning at 7:30 a.m.

First Selectman Matt Knickerbocker said the ceremony will end shortly after 8 a.m. and mark the exact times that the hijacked airliners impacted the buildings in New York and the Pentagon and the crash following the heroic efforts of the passengers in Shanksville, Pa.

Knickerbocker said he will be out of town for his sons wedding this weekend, but Selectman Richard Straiton will represent and speak on behalf of the Board of Selectmen during the ceremony.

Brookfield

Brookfield will host a candlelight vigil on Saturday night in honor of the 20th anniversary of 9/11 at the Town Hall Bandstand. The vigil will start at 7 p.m. and feature speakers who will share their stories with community members.

The event will be sponsored by the Brookfield Museum and Historical Society.

In case of rain, the vigil will be held the following night, Sept. 12.

Danbury

Students, staff and other city officials will gather at St. Joseph School on Friday morning for a ceremony honoring the Sept. 11 anniversary.

The event begins at 10 a.m. rain or shine on the schools front lawn on Main Street. Police, firefighters, EMS, and representatives from the mayors office and veterans affairs are expected to attend.

The city will host a 20th Year Remembrance Ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday at Elmwood Park, where Danburys 9/11 Memorial sits.

Kent

The 20th anniversary ceremony remembering all those lost in the 9/11 attacks will be at Town Hall at 8:30 a.m. Saturday.

New Fairfield

The town of New Fairfield will hold a ceremony Friday morning to remember and honor the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

This years event will take place on the field of New Fairfield High School, 54 Gillotti Road, at 10 a.m.

To many of us, it is hard to believe that the tragic events of Sept. 11 occurred 20 years ago. As we approach this milestone, I am reminded that all of our current students were born after that tragic day, and those in their 20s may have only a distant memory of the events of Sept. 11, 2001, First Selectman Pat Del Monaco announced Monday.

Its for that reason that the own is collaborating with New Fairfield Public Schools for this years 9/11 ceremony. The theme  Never Forget  will be centered on our students and youth and involved local students, she said.

All members of the public are welcome to attend the ceremony. U.S. Rep Jahana Hayes, D-Conn., is expected to speak at the event.

Parking at the high school is limited due to construction, but additional parking and a shuttle bus will be available at Saint Edward Church, 21 Brush Hill Road, beginning at 9:30 a.m..

For those unable to attend Fridays event, a solemn observance will be held at the 9/11 Memorial Park near the New Fairfield Senior Center on Route 37 at 5 p.m. Saturday.

New Milford

A 9/11 ceremony will be held at the 9/11 monument at Patriots Way Plaza overlooking Youngs Field from 8-10 a.m. Saturday. Residents can gather at the monument beginning at 9 a.m. The service is open to the public and will begin at 8:46 a.m.

The Water Witch Hose Co. 2 will toll the bell nine times, then 11 times at 8:46 a.m.

New Milford police, ambulance and fire departments will assist VFW Post 1672 and the American Legion Ezra Woods Post 31 with the changing of the colors.

Redding

To honor the Sept. 11 anniversary, a bell-ringing ceremony will be held on Saturday morning at the Town Green Gazebo.

The ringing will reflect the times  8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m.  the planes hit the World Trade Centers. A moment of silence will be held in between the times. First Selectwoman Julia Pemberton has invited residents to attend.

The United Ride will pass through Reddings Town Green area between 11:30 a.m to 12:30 p.m. Flags flank the Town Green and the opposite side of the street. Citizens are welcome to cheer the ride on, wave flags, etc.

Ridgefield

A 9/11 ceremony will be held at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at the memorial monument on 195 Danbury Road.

The Ridgefield Police Department Honor Guard and Ridgefield Volunteer Fire Department Color Guard will attend. First Selectman Rudy Marconi will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and the welcome.

Pastor Kevin Royal from St. Mary Parish will give the invocation, while Polly Castor, member of the First Church of Christ, will give the benediction.

Daniela Sikora and the Ridgefield Chorale will perform, while piper Tom Elliott will perform Amazing Grace.

Speakers include 2021 Ms. President U.S. Ridgefield Maggie Fleuette, with reflection from Dr. Fred Turpin, retired clergy and psychotherapist. Ridgefield Poet Laureate B. Fulton Jennes will give a reading.

Attendees will be invited to lay a flower on the monument.

Roxbury

In memory of 9/11, the church bells from the Congregational Church and Christ Church Episcopal will ring on Saturday morning.

The bells will toll for one minute each at 9:59 a.m. and 10:28 a.m., the times the towers fell. The Roxbury Board of Selectmen have also urged residents to find the time to do one good deed during the day to honor those killed as well as the bravery and heroism of the first responders.

Sherman

Sherman is having a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the Sherman Firehouse on 9/11 at 9 a.m. All are welcome.

Southbury

The Southbury VFW is having a brief 9/11 memorial ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Saturday on the Memorial Green.
Assisted Living Services, which has an office in Fairfield, is offering its employees a $1,000 cash incentive to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, as part of the companys Vaccination Heroes program. Five of the companys vaccinated staff members selected in a random drawing on Oct. 12 will receive the money.

Caregivers need to receive their first, and second doses of the Pfizer, or Moderna COVID-19 vaccinations, or the single Johnson & Johnson vaccine, anytime until Oct. 12, to be eligible to win.

The company is offering the employees assistance to find the near location administering the vaccinations.

Senior center hosting events, classes

The Bigelow Center for Senior Activities is hosting a coffee and donuts event at 9:30 a.m. on Sept. 29. The center is located at 100 Mona Terrace.

The center also has a selection of classes available. There are class openings in Spanish and watercolors. There are also times to meet with a Connecticut Veterans Affairs representative, and officer Ramon Agosto.

More information is in the centers September newsletter. Register at https://myactivecenter.com/, or call the center at (203) 256-3166 for assistance.

New director at Trinity Parish Nursery School

The Trinity Parish Nursery School has hired longtime Fairfield resident, Lisa Bond, as its new director. Bond officially took over on July 19. She has been an active member of the school, which is located at 651 Pequot Ave., in Southport.

People is the community know Bond as Miss Lisa, or Mrs. Bond. Bond began her early learning career at St. Pauls Nursery School in town, where she helped create the first twos program at the school, led a classroom, and developed curriculum to meet accreditation standards that are still used by teachers today.

Bond has also been a Lead Teacher of the schools twos, and threes classroom since 2019, and an early childhood educator for 22 years. She has also been a member of the Trinity Parish Nursery Schools COVID-19 task force helping children, and families through the challenges brought on by the pandemic. The school was founded in 1965, and is one of Southports oldest nursery schools.

Bond has also been an active member of the nonprofit organization Operation Hope, including chairing their annual Tag Sale event for six years, along with being an active member at the First Church Congregational Church in Fairfield, and multiple PTAs, (Parent Teacher Associations).

Call the schools main number at (203) 259-8456, or visit the schools website at tpns.org for more information.

Doctor speaking about COVID-19 booster doses

Dr. Joseph Feuerstein is giving an update on COVID-19 booster shots via Zoom at 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 20, via Zoom to the members of the Bigelow Center for Senior Activities.

He is the director of integrative medicine at Stamford Health.

Registration is limited. Register at myactivecenter.com, or call the center at (203) 256-3166 for assistance. People will receive a link to register for the event, once they are registered on the website, if they are not already.

Public listening forum to address juvenile crime

State Rep. Laura Devlin, (R-134. Fairfield, Trumbull), is having a public listening forum about juvenile crime from 7 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 13, at the Sacred Heart University Community Theatre, which is located at 1420 Post Road in downtown Fairfield. Masks will be required during the event per theater policy.

Pre-registration is required to ensure seating. Visit www.cthousegop.com/devlin/crimeforum/ to register, view the participating panelists, or submit a question.

Devlin will use the resident input from the event to help craft policy with her legislative colleagues to address the current juvenile crime crisis.

Call Devlin with any additional questions about the event, at her Hartford office at 1-800-842-1423, or email her at Laura.Devlin@housegop.ct.gov.

Notre Dame High School collecting supplies for hurricane victims

Notre Dame High School is collecting supplies to help St. Charles Catholic High School in LaPlace, La. that was devastated by Hurricane Ida.

A list of items requested by the St. Charles community can be found at notredame.org. The school will be collecting items on Sept. 9 and 10 during school hours, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sept. 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Every donated item will be driven to Louisiana by Notre Dame members early next week.

Notre Dame is also inviting area schools and parishes to join the efforts in an effort to send lots of help from Fairfield County.
BRIDGEPORT  A former Easton firefighter is facing seven years in prison after he pleaded guilty Wednesday to the fatal hit-and-run of a young woman who was walking her dog in Fairfield on July 4, 2020.

Declan Kot, 23, wiped his brow with a tissue as he stood before Superior Court Judge Tracy Lee Dayton and pleaded guilty to second-degree manslaughter, evading responsibility in a death and tampering with evidence.

The judge immediately raised Kots bond to $1 million and he was taken into custody by judicial marshals. He is to remain incarcerated until the sentencing hearing on Nov. 10.

At that hearing the judge said she will impose the plea bargain of 20 years, suspended after Kot serves seven years in prison and followed by five years of probation.

Marileidy Morel-Araujo, 32, of Pennsylvania, had been visiting her husbands family on Redding Road in Fairfield, when police said Morel-Araujo decided to take a walk with her dog Coal.

Police said Morel-Araujo was struck from behind as she walked with her dog along Redding Road by a white pickup truck with a large American flag waving on the back. The truck did not stop after the collision, police said.

Police said Kot later admitted he had consumed six alcoholic drinks before getting behind the wheel of his truck.

Senior Assistant States Attorney Tiffany Lockshier told the judge she has received hundreds of letters in support of the Morel-Araujo family who were seated in the back of the courtroom along with the police officers who investigated the case.

Mr. Kot made the decision to drink and drive recklessly, Lockshier said as Kot shook his head in agreement.

Kots lawyer, John R. Gulash, told the judge his client would make a statement at the sentencing hearing.

He will at the appropriate time express his own remorse, Gulash said.

Sean Connors, who represents the Morel-Araujo family, said they were declining comment until the sentencing hearing.

On July 7, 2020, Fairfield Police Officer Virgil Procaccini was on routine patrol when he spotted a pickup matching the description of the one that hit the victim and pulled it over. The driver, Kot, agreed to go to police headquarters.

According to the arrest warrant affidavit, Kot admitted he had been driving his pickup after consuming six alcoholic drinks.

He drove off the road near some bushes/trees and heard a loud bang on the side of his vehicle which startled him; he thought he hit a tree branch at the time, police stated in the affidavit, noting the area of the collision does not have any shrubbery or trees.

The affidavit states that Kot said when he got home, he noticed missing pieces on his passenger side mirror and replaced the mirror.

During this interview, Kot began to cry. Then, police said, Kot admitted seeing the victim on the side of the road.

Lockshier told the judge that they increased the charge to manslaughter after police discovered Kot had a dash camera on his truck that she said recorded him hitting the victim.

She said the dash cam, which had audio, recorded Kot stating he was hammered before driving his truck. Lockshier said the camera then recorded Kot nearly driving head on into another vehicle shortly before he struck Morel-Araujo.
The domed sanctuary rising in Lower Manhattan, where workers are busy installing translucent Greek marble in time for a ceremonial lighting on Sept. 10, bears little resemblance to the modest parish church that John Katsimatides had discovered years ago.

He often visited the old St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church to say a prayer and light a candle as he went to or from work nearby on the 104th floor of the World Trade Center's north tower. The church stood as a quiet oasis amid the soaring financial district.

John Katsimatides was thrilled that there was a Greek church right across the street from where he worked, recalled his sister, Anthoula Katsimatides. St. Nicholas was very special to him.

In the immediate aftermath the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, John's relatives held on to hope that he might have survived. They put up missing-person posters in Lower Manhattan and searched the streets and hospitals for him. But as the days stretched into weeks, our priest insisted that we, for the sake of his soul, read the prayer rites marking his death, Anthoula said. John, 31, a corporate bonds broker at Cantor Fitzgerald, was among the nearly 3,000 people killed on 9/11.

The old St. Nicholas church was also destroyed that day. While no one was killed in the building, it was crushed beneath the falling south tower  the only house of worship destroyed in the attacks.

When we discovered ... that St. Nicholas was also lost, we thought that there was some kind of a message there, that the victims did not die alone, Anthoula Katsimatides said. I remember my mom saying that ... John and the other victims were being cradled by St. Nicholas.

This Sept. 10, the eve of the date 20 years after the nation's deadliest terrorist attack, she'll attend the ceremonial lighting of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine, being built to replace the parish church and to honor those who were lost.

The ceremony will be a milestone in a project long beset with bureaucratic tangles and financial woes but now on track for completion next year.

St. Nicholas brings me close to my brother, Anthoula Katsimatides said. Being able to come and worship at the site of my brothers death, in a beautiful chapel that not only honors John but all the victims that died that day and is a symbol of this rebirth, is unbelievably important to me now.

The lighting of the church will come from within. Through an innovative process, interior lights are being designed to illuminate thin panels of marble, mined from the same Pentelic vein in Greece that sourced the Parthenon, the ancient temple in Athens.

The church is being built in an small, elevated park overlooking the World Trade Center memorial plaza, close to the reflecting pools that mark where the twin towers once stood. A huge, bronze sphere that once stood between the towers now stands, dented and damaged, in the park just beyond the chapels doors. Tour and school groups often gather on a flight of steps leading to the shrine.

The shrines concrete shell, passed daily by streams of tourists, has been one of the most visible signs of the unfinished work of the ground zero rebuilding effort. Work to install its marble cladding has proceeded at a fast pace in recent weeks in time for the ceremonial lighting, though the church isn't slated to be completed until next year.

The church is designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, with its dome, windows and iconography inspired by historic former Byzantine churches, including the world-renowned Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. A Greek iconographer is integrating traditional designs with imagery from 9/11, including tributes to slain rescue workers.

The translucent areas of the facade are intended to give the church a dim light, like a beacon of hope, during the night, Calatrava said. Building the church with Pentelic stone adds another level of symbolism, because ... I consider Hagia Sophia the Parthenon of Orthodoxy.

Given its prominent location near the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the shrine is destined to become a signature American expression of Eastern Orthodoxy, an ancient Christian communion that still predominates in Greece and much of Eastern Europe but has a slender share of the U.S. Christian population.

In addition to its sanctuary, the shrine will have a separate space for meditation and reflection for people of all faiths.

Its going to have a rich liturgical life" as a church, said Michael Psaros, vice chairman of the Friends of St. Nicholas, the private entity overseeing the project in cooperation with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. But this beautiful shrine were building belongs to New York, it belongs to the U.S., and it belongs to the world."

That inclusiveness is carrying on what St. Nicholas was in the past, said Olga Pavlakos, vice president of the parish. She was baptized in the old church, where her parents were married and her grandparents worshiped.

Whoever stepped in to St. Nicholas, whether they were Greek, non-Greek, any race, religion, we accepted everybody, she said. If "they were poor, they needed something to eat, they wanted soup, everybody was accepted."

Greek immigrants founded St. Nicholas on Lower Manhattan's Cedar Street in 1916, converting a former tavern into a church and topping it with a small belfry and cross. According to parish lore, newly arrived Greek immigrants came there to offer thanks to St. Nicholas, patron of seafarers.

Whatever we did in St. Nicholas was all volunteer, said Pavlakos. It was a poor parish.

Over the decades, even as the church was islanded by a parking lot and dwarfed by the World Trade Center, parish leaders refused to sell to land-hungry developers. By the turn of the century, its small core of members were still coming in from surrounding boroughs and communities to worship.

Since 9/11, parishioners have worshipped at various parishes in the region. We kept waiting to return, Pavlakos said. We never thought that it would take 20 years.

The archdiocese always intended to rebuild, but the question was where, given all the components involved in reconstruction at ground zero. The archdiocese and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which owns the trade center, ended up in litigation in 2011 before settling on a site on Liberty Street, near the old church. Officials ceremonially broke ground in 2014.

But a new crisis arose.

Costs soared beyond projections, and construction halted in late 2017 after the archdiocese fell behind on payments. The archdiocese, which had financial woes of its own, used $3.5 million in funds dedicated to the shrine for its own operating deficit and had to repay it.

The archdiocese appointed an investigating committee that attributed the St. Nicholas cost overruns to expensive change orders. Those architectural enhancements may have been made with the best of intentions" for a shrine of such significance, but they pushed the cost far above the archdiocese's public disclosures, the committee said in 2018.

The archdiocese also implemented the committee's recommendation of turning the project management over to a separate entity. That entity, Friends of St. Nicholas, led by a core of wealthy Greek-Americans, has completed fundraising for the church, with estimated costs of close to $85 million, and is now raising an endowment for maintenance and security.

The archdiocese is good at a lot of things, but building a national shrine in the most expensive place in the history of Western civilization was not exactly its forte, Psaros said.

Archbishop Elpidophoros, who assumed leadership of the nationwide archdiocese in 2019, said the symbolism of the shrine is important.

Ground zero is worldwide known as as a place of religious hatred and violence, and the results of this religious hatred and violence," he said. Part of our responsibility was to restore the reputation of religion ... as a factor of uniting people.

The project is one of the final components in reconstruction in the section of Lower Manhattan devastated on 9/11. A performing arts center is under construction, due to open in 2023, and an additional office building and apartment complex are planned.

"One of the top priorities has been to move the World Trade Center campus toward completion, and one of the most important aspects of that is the national shrine, Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said. The church project is bringing to completion those aspects of the site which are really dedicated to the spiritual memory of the those who were killed in the attack.

The project has personal significance for the Rev. Alex Karloutsos, longtime vicar-general for the archdiocese. In the hours and days after the 9/11 attacks, he was among clergy offering spiritual support to recovery workers.

People at that point were looking for something sacred, because they had just experienced that which is evil, he said.

Among the surviving artifacts from St. Nicholas was a paper icon of St. Dionysius of Zakynthos  the patron of forgiveness for having forgiven his brother's murderer.

That icon was very poignant, because at the end of the day, for us to go outside of our hatred, we even had to forgive those who destroyed our brothers and sisters," Karloutsos said.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through The Conversation U.S. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP)  A Texas death row inmate won a reprieve Wednesday evening from execution for killing a convenience store worker during a 2004 robbery that garnered $1.25 after claiming the state was violating his religious freedom by not letting his pastor lay hands on him at the time of his lethal injection.

The U.S. Supreme Court blocked John Henry Ramirezs execution about three hours after he could have been executed. He is condemned for fatally stabbing 46-year-old Pablo Castro, who worked at a Corpus Christi convenience store.

Ramirez was in a small holding cell a few feet from the Texas death chamber at the Huntsville Unit prison when he was told of the reprieve by Texas Department of Criminal Justice spokesman Jason Clark.

He was quiet when I let him know, Clark said. He shook his head and said: Thank you very much. God bless you.

In its brief order, the court directed its clerk to establish a briefing schedule so Ramirez's case could be argued in October or November.

Prosecutors say Ramirez stabbed Castro 29 times during a series of robberies in which the inmate and two women sought money following a three-day drug binge. Ramirez fled to Mexico but was arrested 3 years later.

Seth Kretzer, Ramirezs lawyer, had argued the Texas Department of Criminal Justice was violating the death row inmates First Amendment rights to practice his religion by denying his request to have his pastor touch him and vocalize prayers when he was executed. He called the ban on vocal prayer a spiritual gag order.

It is hostile toward religion, denying religious exercise at the precise moment it is most needed: when someone is transitioning from this life to the next, Kretzer said in court documents.

Lower appeals courts had rejected Ramirezs argument.

The request by Ramirez, 37, is the latest clash between death row inmates and prison officials in Texas and other states over the presence of spiritual advisers in the death chamber.

In recent years, the Supreme Court has granted stays halting several executions in Texas and Alabama over the presence of clergy or spiritual advisers in the death chamber. The only execution stays the Supreme Court has granted in recent years have been related to issues of religious practice or discrimination.

In April, the Texas prison system reversed a two-year ban on allowing spiritual advisers in the death chamber. The ban came after the U.S. Supreme Court in 2019 halted the execution of another Texas inmate who had argued his religious freedom was being violated because his Buddhist spiritual adviser wasnt allowed to accompany him. That inmate, Patrick Murphy, remains on death row.

Texas previously allowed state-employed clergy to accompany inmates into the chamber, but its prison staff included only Christian and Muslim clerics. The new policy allows an inmates approved spiritual adviser to be in the chamber but the two cannot have any contact and vocal prayers during the execution are not allowed.

Texas prison officials say direct contact poses a security risk and the vocal prayer could be disruptive and would go against maintaining an orderly process. Aside from some prison officials, an inmates final statement and a doctor who announces the time of death, no one else usually formally speaks during an execution.

Dana Moore, Ramirezs spiritual adviser the last four years, said the request to let him touch Ramirez was about letting the inmate practice his Christian faith and treating him with a certain amount of dignity.

Moore and Kretzer say the laying of hands is a symbolic act in which religious leaders put their hands on someone in order to offer comfort during prayer or confer a spiritual blessing at the moment of someones death.

Johns sentence wasnt death and you cant have any meaningful contact, said Moore, who is pastor at Second Baptist Church in Corpus Christi. He is paying for his crime. I guess the question that would come up, is that not enough?

But Mark Skurka, the lead prosecutor at Ramirezs 2008 trial, said while he believes a death row inmate should have a spiritual adviser at the time of execution, there should be limitations based on security concerns.

Pablo Castro didnt get to have somebody praying over him as this guy stabbed him 29 times. Pablo Castro didnt get afforded such niceties and things like to have a clergyman present, said Skurka, now retired after later serving as Nueces County district attorney.

Castro, who had nine children, had worked at the convenience store for more than a decade when he was killed.

He was a good guy. He would help people out in the neighborhood. Everybody liked him, Skurka said.

Two women who took part in the robberies and were convicted on lesser charges remain in prison.

Six more executions are scheduled for later this year in Texas, the nations busiest capital punishment state.

___

Lozano reported from Houston.
/ Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

GREENWICH  A New York woman is scheduled to be arraigned next week on felony charges that she attempted to pass seven fake $100 bills at a store in central Greenwich, according to police.

Marissa Castro-Velez, 18, of Astoria, Queens, is facing seven counts of forgery in connection with her arrest on Sept. 3 on Greenwich Avenue near Elm Street, according to an arrest report.
Every building is unique, as is its risk level for outbreaks. ParticleOne builds on general Public Health guidance to address the complexity of distinct spaces, enabling business owners to make informed choices. By applying building science, data analytics, and computer modelling, ParticleOne creates an accurate profile of a space and offers clear, science-based guidance and solutions. The system accounts for the distinct layout, use, ventilation, and location of a building, while also calculating the future impacts of emerging variants, local infection and vaccination rates.

Client feedback

As an early client of ParticleOne, Pharmasave Elora Apothecary owner Bronwyn Tolmie outlines the common challenge many business owners face in trying to make their space "safe": "There is a lot of talk about what is 'safe,' but it is very hard to measure an invisible threat like COVID. With ParticleOne's analysis of our site, we are able to 'see' our risk leveland apply the necessary solutions to allow us to operate our business with confidence."

Developed and used by engineers

ParticleOne was developed in response to environmental engineering firm RWDI's own challenge to understand and manage the different risk levels for each of its 26 offices and three model shops around the world. RWDI developed ParticleOne in partnership with University of Guelph genomics scientist, Dr. Steven Newmaster, to inform its reopening plans.

The ParticleOne Platform:

Provides oversite of multiple properties at once with a customized dashboard that indicates the risk of COVID transmission at each location.

Runs thousands of simulations to compare the effectiveness of different safety measures, including HEPA filters, masks, occupancy levels and more.

Provides regular monitoring of all locations and alerts facility managers when action is needed.

Preparedness is prevention

"To prevent the high costs of employee absenteeism and closures, companies need to be prepared," explains Mike Williams, a building-performance engineer at both RWDI and ParticleOne. "But companies also need to appreciate that viral risks are dynamic. The plan you put in place this month may need to be adjusted next month. COVID is an ongoing threat that needs to be continually managed. Fortunately, we have the tools to manage it."

ParticleOne is primarily focused on reducing the risk of COVID inside shared spaces, but its technology and solutions will also measure the risk for other common viruses and emerging pathogens.

RWDI President and CEO, Michael J. Soligo, confirms: "Well-prepared organizations recognize that monitoring pathogen risk is the new normal. But we also know first-hand, after five decades of consulting on ventilation, air quality and measuring containments, that the benefits of 'cleaner air' go well beyond COVID. Increased productivity, less absenteeism, and a healthier workforce ensures a healthier business overall."





About ParticleOne

ParticleOne uses science and technology to make indoor spaces safer. It is the joint initiative between environmental engineers RWDI (world-renowned experts in building science, air flow, ventilation, and contaminants) and Dr. Steven Newmaster, genomics scientist at the University of Guelph. ParticleOne develops customized pathogen risk-management strategies through its cloud-based platform, expert consultation, and related R&D. ParticleOne builds on RWDI's and Dr. Newmaster's recent collaboration on rapid testing at Songbird Life Science.

Related links: ParticleOne.com

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For further information: Media inquiries: [email protected]
Taliban on Tuesday announced the caretaker government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, naming Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund as interim prime minister and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the group, as his deputy.

A day after the Taliban announced the interim government of Afghanistan, the United States on Wednesday said that the outfit would have to work for the right to be regarded by the international community as a legitimate government.The remarks were made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken after holding bilateral talks with German counterpart Heiko Mass at the Ramstein Air Base in western Germany. After bilateral talks, the two leaders also had a virtual meeting with foreign ministers of several countries and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg.

The Taliban seek international legitimacy. Any legitimacy  any support  will have to be earned, Blinken said, after the meeting. Blinken told reporters that he discussed with partners how to hold the Taliban to their commitments, DW reported.

He also responded to criticism that the US administration was not making enough effort to facilitate further evacuations, vowing to put pressure on the Taliban to start charter flights out of Afghanistan. We are working to do everything in our power to support those flights and to get them off the ground, he said.

Blinken said the group was preventing some flights from leaving because some people wanting to fly out did not have the correct documentation. Taliban on Tuesday announced the caretaker government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, naming Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund as interim prime minister and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, a co-founder of the group, as his deputy.

Mullah Yaqoob, one of the deputy leaders of the Taliban since 2016 and the son of Taliban founder Mullah Omar, will act as caretaker Defence Minister. Abdul Salam Hanafi has been made the second deputy to Prime Minister Akhund. No non-Taliban figures were immediately announced- an indication that the outfit had not bowed down to domestic and international pressure to create an inclusive regime.

Maas, in his turn, said the non-inclusive interim government announced by the Taliban was not the signal for more international cooperation and stability in the country. We hope that in the further formation of a government, which has not been completed, the necessary signals for this will be sent, he added. Maas had said previously that the goal of Wednesdays meeting was to clarify what a joint approach toward the Taliban can look like.
While extending gratitude to all Afghans for their sacrifice, Ghani apologized for not being able to prevent the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

Former Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has issued a statement refuting multiple allegations that he fled Kabul carrying millions of dollars and offered an explanation for leaving abruptly after the Taliban entered the capital city. Stunned by the speed of the Talibans advance on Kabul, Ghani fled Afghanistan on August 15, and his whereabouts was enigma before the United Arab Emirates announced a few days later he had arrived in the Gulf state on humanitarian grounds.

I left at the urging of the palace security who advised me that to remain risked setting off the same horrific street-to-street fighting the city had suffered during the Civil War of the 1990s. Leaving Kabul was the most difficult decision of my life, but I believed it was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her 6 million citizens, he said in a statement.

Last month, in a video message, Ghani had said that he left the country in an attempt to avoid bloodshed. Following a slew of criticism including people from his own cabinet, former Afghanistan President in Wednesdays statement, said that charges of corruption are false and that he inherited a system that could not easily be defeated.

I must now address baseless allegations that as I left Kabul I took with me millions of dollars belonging to the Afghan people. These charges are completely and categorically false. Corruption is a plague that has crippled our country for decades and fighting corruption has been a central focus of my efforts as president, he said.

Ghani offered relevant UN agencies or independent bodies to probe the charges to prove the veracity of his claim. I have publicly declared all of my assets. My wifes family inheritance has also been disclosed and remains listed in her home country of Lebanon. I welcome an official audit or financial investigation under UN auspices or any other appropriate independent body to prove the veracity of my statements here.

While extending gratitude to all Afghans for their sacrifice, Ghani apologized for not being able to prevent the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.
The embassy said that the opportunities for further development of special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India, "including deepening political dialogue at the highest and high levels, were discussed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met with Secretary of the Russian Security Council Nikolai Patrushev, during which they reaffirmed their intention to strengthen coordination in the field of enhancing regional stability, including on Afghanistan.

According to the Russian Embassy here, the two discussed a wide range of issues of the Russian-Indian cooperation, as well as a number of topics of the international agenda, were touched upon. The two sides reaffirmed their intention to strengthen coordination in the field of enhancing the regional stability, including on the Afghan direction, the statement read.

The embassy said that the opportunities for further development of special and privileged strategic partnership between Russia and India, including deepening political dialogue at the highest and high levels, were discussed. They also spoke about the prospects for strengthening interaction in multilateral formats, including the SCO and BRICS, as well as the development of the Russian-Indian cooperation in the trade and economic sphere.

Earlier in the day, Patrushev, who is on a two-day visit to India, had meetings with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Doval and Patrushev held high-level Inter-Governmental Consultations on Afghanistan. It was India and Russia first detailed and extensive review of the situation in Afghanistan involving the Ministry of External Affairs and Ministry of Defence and security agencies after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban, sources said.

According to sources, both sides expressed deep concerns over developments in Afghanistan.

There was a convergence of views between the two sides on all majors issues and common threats including the need for the Taliban to adhere to promises; the presence of international terrorist groups in Afghanistan and threats from terrorism to Central Asia and India; Islamic radicalisation and extremism; on the flow of weapons to terrorist groups and smuggling across Afghan borders and the high chances of Afghanistan becoming a hub of opium production and trafficking, the sources said.

India emphasised Pakistans links with the Taliban and other international terrorist groups operating in Afghanistan, and the special responsibility that Pakistan bears to ensure that Afghanistan soil is not used to spread terrorism.
NEW HAVEN  Businesses on Grand Avenue Wednesday reported a drop in customers due to increasing violence in the Fair Haven section, where there had been two shootings in two days.

There will be a communitywide discussion at 6 p.m. Friday, with the public invited to discuss the violence and offer any suggestions.

It will be held at the Family Academy of Multilingual Exploration at Grand and Blatchley avenues.

Salsas Authentic Mexican Restaurant, which has been in business for 27 years, was one of the places Mayor Justin Elicker, Fair Haven District Manager Lt. Michael Fumiatti and others stopped by to talk to owners about the shootings and the need for the community to work with police.

Kyle Buda, spokesman for the mayor, said there have been three shootings within a few blocks, and another farther out in the last month in Fair Haven.

The city hit a sad marker this week when Zaire Luciano, 30, was killed in the Annex area, while Luis Fernando-Gonzalez-Santoz, 45, was killed Monday in Fair Haven, bringing the number of homicides to 21 so far this year, one more than the total for 2020.

The latest shooting in this neighborhood took place Tuesday night in the parking lot across from Salsas in the area of Grand Avenue and East Pearl Street at 8:09 p.m., while the second one was on Shelter Street at 2:18 a.m. Wednesday morning.

Luis Palomino, the owner of Salsas, as translated by Alder Jose Crespo, D-16, said the problem is drug dealing in the area. Crespo said the restaurant no longer has tables outside, but will deliver the food to customers cars when they pull up after calling in an order.

He said they are actively cooperating with the police department, Crespo said of the owner.

There were four people at a table mid-afternoon at Salsas, with several more men at the small bar area.

The son and nephew of Palomino added to the discussion.

There definitely needs to be more police. It is a big issue, Rubiel Rodriguez said. He works next door at the barber shop with his cousin, Brian Palomino.

It has been worse since the beginning of the year. I see it every day, Rodriguez said.

Brian Palomino said his clients tell me all the time how they got mugged walking from their cars to their homes in broad daylight. He said others have had someone try to open their car door when they stop at a light.

My parents, all they do is work. It would be unfortunate if one night they are trying to get into the house and something happens to them, Rodriguez said.

We had been making so much progress. I dont know what is going on, Rodriguez said. Brian Palomino said they will come outside to greet customers as they enter the barber shop.

They would like to see extra patrols. I know they are busy. Im not bashing them in any way, but we need more help, Rodriguez said of the police.

At the corner, a resident of Atwater Street complained about a neighbor constantly setting off fireworks and menacing the neighborhood as she took Fumiattis cellphone number.

Two women heading for the bus stop where their children are dropped off did not want to give their names, but expressed their dismay at the violence.

Enough is enough, one woman said.

Elicker said the city is implementing many programs that have proven to be successful in the past.

Our team is very committed to ensuring the safety of the neighborhood and we have and are holding people accountable. ... We have taken many guns off the street and will continue to do many gun arrests, Elicker said.

The mayor said, on a personal note, Wednesday morning he was at the funeral of 14-year-old Tyshaun Hargrove, who was killed Aug. 25, and he was at the shooting scene on Grand Wednesday morning.

As mayor I can say I am tired and our community is tired of going to homicides, of going to wakes and funerals and talking to family members and community members and loved ones. These are people who could have had productive lives and are lost. ... We are doing everything we possibly can to respond to the increase in violence. We need your help as well to solve ... to make arrests faster than we currently are, because you share information with us, Elicker said.

Fumiatti said what they are seeing in Fair Haven is that when people have differences they try to settle disputes with guns.

He said they are trying to resolve those disputes without violence and offer public services, but if that is not possible, they are arresting suspects.

Fumiatti said there have been plenty of gun arrests made on the corner of Grand and East Pearl. He also asked for the publics help, pointing out there were a lot of people present when the recent shooting occurred.

We encourage all of then to come forward, he said.

Carmen Mendez, who has been a neighborhood specialist for decades and lives in Fair Haven, also spoke.

The community is very close. What is happening is beyond my understanding. ... It is very disturbing, Mendez said of the neighborhood where many residents own their own homes and want to stay.

We need to come together as a community and fight this. We just cant depend on the police department. ... Each and every one of us is responsible for well-being of our community, Mendez said.
Ned Gerard / Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A city man was sentenced to more than two years in federal prison  time already served  in connection with a gun exchange in New Haven in 2019, prosecutors said.

Tyrell Cox-Henderson, 28, was sentenced by Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 29 months in prison and three years of supervised release. The judge ordered that Cox-Henderson serve his first three months of supervised release in home confinement.
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

David Blunck, Oregon State University

(THE CONVERSATION) As firefighters tried to protect homes near Lake Tahoe from one of Californias largest fires on record, they battled, windblown embers that kept sparking new small fires, some well away from the fire line.

Those embers, also known as firebrands, were a powerful and dangerous reminder that protecting homes is about more than avoiding a wall of flames.

Firebrands are pieces of flaming material that break off from burning vegetation or structures and are transported through the air. They particularly become a problem when heat and drought dry out grasses and trees and the wind picks up. Homes and other structures are at higher risk when they have dry fuel, such as leaves, needles or wood chips, on the structure or nearby.

That risk, and how it can easily be overlooked, crystallized for me in September 2020 when my parents were put on notice to prepare to evacuate as a fire neared their home in Oregon. I have studied wildfires for years, particularly how they spread through firebrands. Yet this threat made it real.

What protecting a home looks like

I was not concerned about a wall of flames reaching my parents home  they had a lush and green yard that was unlikely to ignite. Instead, what concerned me was whether my parents were prepared for ignition by firebrands.

Firebrands can travel over a mile by the wind and can be a major cause of spreading fires. In the Tahoe region, for example, firefighters couldnt just focus on the main fire line in summer 2021  they also had to patrol for spot fires.

At my parents home and several of their neighbors, I used a leaf blower to clear potential ignition sources. I removed dried leaves in gutters and needles in valleys of roofs, and watered the dry mulch near houses.

I asked myself, if a lighted match or matches were dropped at a location, could they start a fire? If so, the potential fuel needed to be removed. In every home that I visited, I found locations where firebrands could potentially ignite flammable materials, despite the homeowners best preparations.

What surprised me at the time was how little time people applied to preparing for firebrands, despite going to great lengths to protect their homes by watering the grounds. What I realized was that my parents and their neighbors, like many of us, envisioned protecting homes as stopping a wall of flames from reaching their homes. They did not appreciate that in some cases the greater threat could blow in by the wind.

Three steps to firebrand-started fires

Fire scientists talk about spot fires as occurring in three steps: how firebrands are generated, how they are carried by the wind and how they land and ignite fuel. Fire scientists, including those from my research group, are actively studying each of these steps to be able to better predict and ultimately reduce the risks to communities from firebrands.

Firebrands are generated from burning vegetation orstructures. Sizes of the firebrands can vary, but can be as small as several millimeters square.

Firebrands can come from burning pieces of bark, branches, cones or needles if the source is wildfires. For urban fires, firebrands can come from roofing, siding, particle boards or other flammable materials.

Over the past two decades, efforts studying generation of firebrands have often focused on quantifying the number of firebrands that land at particular locations as trees or other vegetation burns. More recently, researchers are working to estimate the total number of firebrands that are released when objects burn.

To estimate how many firebrands a fire generates, we set fire-resistant fabric squares around burning trees and shrubs, such as Douglas fir and sagebrush, and collected the firebrands that landed. By determining the total number of firebrands per unit of mass of the tree or shrub that burns, we can incorporate data into computer models to estimate the total number of firebrands released in a fire and where they spread. Ultimately, we hope thesemodels can be used to better understand risks associated with wild or urban fires.

Many research efforts have focused on developing models that capture the physics of how firebrands are transported or where firebrands are most likely to land. The nature of the burning of firebrands as they are being transported is an important factor. Firebrands can be flaming or smoldering. Both can cause new fires.

The third step is ignition of fuels  like fencing, mulch and needles  after firebrands land. Researchers are investigatingthe heating potential or temperature of firebrands. Understanding this information is critical for implementing building codes and standards and best practices to better protect homes. Were also working to better understand which characteristics of the fuelsdetermine whether they ignite.

How can homeowners reduce the risk?

So what can homeowners do to protect themselves from the risk of spot fires?

First, start with shifting your mindset about preparation to not if, but when a fire will occur nearby. I will admit that, as a homeowner who lives near a forest, I allow pine needles and leaves to accumulate on my roof. I make the excuse that I will have time to prepare in an actual fire. Yet, as I consider preparing for when a fire will be near me, rather than if, I feel more of a sense of urgency and responsibility.

Second, people in fire-prone areas need to educate themselves about potential ignition sources. Note that locations that are fire-prone are expanding. My parents home hadnt been threatened by fires in the 30 years they had lived there  until 2020. One resource when figuring out how to audit a homes risk is the National Fire Protection Association.

Certainly, at a minimum people to need to remove flammable material from on or near homes. In addition, they should consider ignition sources from structures such as decks and ensure that firebrands cannot be pulled into homes through ventilation ducts or other methods. Putting screens on windows and over ventilation ducts, using 1/8-inch holes, can be a simple, low-cost and highly effective way to stop firebrands from entering a house.

Third, consistently act to monitor and eliminate ignition sources, such as needles or leaves, that can gradually accumulate with time. Often it takes little effort to remove the debris, but it requires constant monitoring and prioritizing removal.

[Over 100,000 readers rely on The Conversations newsletter to understand the world. Sign up today.]

Certainly taking steps to educate, audit and then remove ignition sources from firebrands will not stop all fires from spreading to homes. But these steps will save many homes and help to reduce the risk to fire responders and communities.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/firebrands-how-to-protect-your-home-from-wildfires-windblown-flaming-debris-166552.
JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP)  The foreign minister of Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, urged the Taliban on Thursday to respect the rights of women and not allow Afghanistan to become a breeding ground for extremist activities.

Retno Marsudi made the comments after meeting with Australias foreign and defense ministers, who are visiting Jakarta to bolster security ties.

Marsudi said Indonesia is closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and hopes the country will not be used as a breeding and training ground for terrorist organizations and activities that threaten peace and stability in the region.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced an all-male interim government that includes many veterans of their hard-line rule in the 1990s and 20-year battle against U.S.-led forces.

Indonesia has suffered a series of militant attacks since bombings on the tourist island of Bali in 2002 killed 202 people, mostly foreigners, including 88 Australians. The Bali bombings were blamed on the al-Qaida-linked Jemaah Islamiyah network.

In the following decade, Indonesian security forces backed by the U.S. and Australia crushed Jemaah Islamiyah, killing leaders and bomb makers and arresting hundreds of militants. But a new threat has emerged in recent years from Islamic State group sympathizers, including Indonesians who traveled to the Middle East to fight with the group.

Marsudi and her Australian counterpart, Marise Payne, urged the Taliban to respect and promote human rights, especially those of women and girls.

Indonesia has a significant role to play as a Muslim country with a strong voice on these issues, Payne said in a joint video news conference with Marsudi, Australian Defense Minister Peter Dutton and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto.

Payne and Dutton arrived in Jakarta on Wednesday for the first of a series of meetings with foreign and defense ministers in Indonesia, India, South Korea and the United States to underscore Australia's role in the Indo-Pacific region, where China's influence and military power are growing.

Their trip will also prepare for Prime Minister Scott Morrisons visit to Washington, D.C., later this month to meet with U.S., Indian and Japanese leaders in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue.

China has called the so-called Quad an attempt to contain its ambitions.

Payne described the Indo-Pacific region as the most dynamic, innovative and prosperous in the world.

To maintain that prosperity and security, we welcome a region that supports a level playing field based on rules and norms to ensure healthy competition, rather than competition that risks sliding into instability or conflict, she said.

The four ministers agreed to cooperate in defense, cybertechnology and countering terrorism and violent extremism, and in fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Surging infections have strained Indonesias healthcare system as it struggles to roll out vaccinations. Australia has provided it with 1 million vaccine doses, 1,000 ventilators and more than 800 oxygen concentrators and cylinders.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  The U.S. Justice Department will review practices of the Columbus police department after a series of fatal police shootings of Black people and its response to last year's racial injustice protests, the city and the government announced Thursday.

The review will be conducted by the Justice Department's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and will consist of what the department is calling technical assistance in such areas as training, recruitment including a focus on diversity, technology, and creating an early intervention system for officers.

This is not about one particular officer, policy or incident," Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther said in a statement. Rather, this is about reforming the entire institution of policing in Columbus.

Unlike other cities under Justice Department review, which is often unwanted, Columbus requested the federal involvement. Ginther and City Attorney Zach Klein asked the government to intervene in April, days after a white officer fatally shot 16-year-old Ma'Khia Bryant while the teenager, who was Black, was swinging a knife at a woman.

The COPS Office has a track record of providing an array of resources for police departments, said Robert Chapman, acting COPS director.

Reinforcing the key tenets of community policing  partnerships, the use of problem-solving to address crime systematically, and transforming both organizations and their people  will result not only in more effective law enforcement, but also in communities that are safer and stronger, he said in a statement.

Ginther and the all-Democratic city council pushed for multiple changes to the Columbus Division of Police over the years, including the creation  approved by voters in November  of the city's first civilian police review board and the selection in June of Elaine Bryant as police chief, the first Black woman to serve in that role.

But Ginther said in April, when he requested a Justice Department review, that the city needs additional help because of fierce opposition to reform within the agency.

Criticism has included not just fatal police shootings, but also the departments reaction to protests over racial injustice and police brutality following the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police Officer Derek Chauvin. A report commissioned by the Columbus City Council and released in April criticized both the police department and city leaders, saying Columbus was unprepared for the size and energy of the protests.

Thursday's announcement was criticized almost immediately by some advocates for deeper reform within the agency. Ginther should have requested a review known as a pattern and practices investigation," which would carry with it the possibility of court-ordered oversight, said Sean Walton, an attorney who has represented the families of several Black people fatally shot by Columbus police.

Accepting a review by the community policing office was an intentional attempt to ignore the Columbus department's "abusive history in an effort to avoid a negative national spotlight coming to Columbus," said Walton, speaking on behalf of the Columbus Police Accountability Project. He called Ginther's decision a slap in the face to the people he claims to serve, and is yet another frustrating example of politics as usual in Columbus.

In 2016, shortly after Ginther took office, the city spent millions of dollars to buy police body cameras for the first time and is now in the process of spending millions more to upgrade them.

Even with that and other initiatives, Columbus  the countrys 14th largest city  has recorded a number of contested police shootings.

The most recent cases include the death of Bryant; the April 12 killing of 27-year-old Miles Jackson in an emergency room; and 47-year-old Andre Hill. The white police officer who fatally shot Hill on Dec. 22 has pleaded not guilty to a number of charges made against him by the state attorney generals office.

In January, interim Chief Thomas Quinlan was forced out after Ginther said he had lost confidence in the chiefs ability to make needed changes to the department.

Before the recent police shootings, the city was sued over the 2016 shooting of Henry Green, a Black man, by two undercover white police officers working in an anti-crime summer initiative.

Later in the same year, a white officer fatally shot 13-year-old Tyre King, who was Black, during a robbery investigation.

Records show that Black residents, about 28% of the Columbus population, accounted for about half of all uses of police force from 2015 through 2019.

The agency  like many big-city departments  is juggling calls for internal change even as it battles street violence. Columbus saw a record 174 homicides in 2020 and has recorded 143 so far this year, a figure not reached until mid-November last year.

In 1999, the Justice Department sued the city, accusing officers of routinely violating peoples civil rights through illegal searches, false arrests and excessive force. A year later, the government added a racial profiling complaint, alleging that from 1994 to 1999, Black people in Columbus were almost three times as likely as whites to be the subject of traffic stops in which one or more tickets were issued.

A federal judge in 2002 dismissed the lawsuit after the city, which had fought it, made changes on the use of police force and handling of complaints against officers.

Columbus has been down this road before of having a federal review without any enforcement mechanism to implement their recommendations," the Rev. Joel Miller, pastor of the Columbus Mennonite Church, said in a Thursday statement, adding to criticism of the federal review. "And that got us to where we are now!

Miller was among 100 local faith leaders who called on Ginther last fall to defund the citys police force.

___

Farnoush Amiri 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.
Contributed Photo

AVON  Less than 24 hours after family and friends held a vigil for the missing teenager, Ronan Hernsdorf-Smith was found safe, according to police Lt. John Schmalberger.

Hernsdorf-Smith, 17, was missing since Aug. 30 when they took an Uber to Enfield to meet with an acquaintance. Friends and family had no idea where the transgender teenager, who uses they/them pronouns, couldve gone next as they werent using their debit card, cellphone or social media accounts.
GULFPORT, Miss. (AP)  Protesters are demanding justice for a baby who died in May after Mississippi law enforcement officers unleashed a torrent of gunfire into a car driven by his father, who was wanted in the killing of the baby's mother and another person in Louisiana.

Jeremy Parker, the uncle of 3-month-old LaMello Parker, joined protestors Wednesday outside the headquarters of the Gulfport Police Department, one of the agencies involved in the chase, WLOX-TV reported. Parker noted that, prior to the shooting, the tires on the car driven by Eric Derell Smith had already been flattened.

I just want to know why yall shot that car up like that and yall know the little baby was in there," Parker said.

On May 3, Mississippi Highway Patrol troopers, Gulfport police and Harrison County deputies pursued a car driven by Smith on Interstate 10 after it crossed from Louisiana to Mississippi. Smith, 30, was suspected of killing his ex-girlfriend Christin Parker and her 26-year-old nephew in Baker, Louisiana, and then fleeing with La'Mello.

Videos from drivers on the interstate show officers fired more than 20 rounds into the car. Biloxi Police Chief John Miller has said the officers started shooting after Smith shot at them.

Smith died at the scene, and La'Mello died the next day in an Alabama hospital. An autopsy determined the baby died of a single gunshot wound.

Biloxi Police Capt. Brian Dykes said Saturday that the investigation continues, and information will be given to the Harrison County district attorneys office when it is complete. He said he could not estimate when that might happen.

Smith and La'Mello were Black, and activists have questioned whether race played a role in officers' shooting into the vehicle.

The infants family and members of the Biloxi NAACP, Black Lives Matter Mississippi, Yo Gulf Coast, Mississippi Rising Coalition and ADOS Mississippi are demanding transparency from law enforcement about the investigation, the Sun Herald reported. They want authorities to say whether the bullet that killed LaMello came from an officers gun.

Reginald Virgil, president of Black Lives Matter Mississippi, said its time for law enforcement officers to be held accountable.

We dont feel safe or respected when police act with the excessive force and disregard for life and public safety," Virgil said. "Worse, the law enforcement agencies involved have not been transparent with us when we voice our concerns and frustration and try to get answers. We are the taxpayers who pay their salaries. Black lives matter. LaMellos life mattered.

The Sun Herald filed a public records request in May with the Biloxi Police Department. The newspaper reported that investigators had received results of a forensic test on the bullet that killed La'Mello. An attorney for Biloxi police provided three pages of an incident report, but excluded two other pages cited as being exempt from public disclosure because they are investigative reports.
Brian Zahn/Hearst Connecticut Media

NEW HAVEN  A fourth-grade student is safe after he has left at the wrong bus stop Thursday, a spokesman for the school district said.

The student was dropped off at the wrong address this afternoon, spokesman Justin Harmon said in an email. The student was dropped there by a bus driver, according to Harmon.
Ben Lambert / Hearst Connecticut Media

HAMDEN  A stretch of Dixwell Avenue near Route 15 is partially closed in both directions this Thursday morning due to a crash in the area, according to police.

As of soon before 9:30 a.m., United Illuminating at the scene was repairing two utility poles that have extensive damage from a motor vehicle accident earlier this morning, Det. Sean Dolan said in an email.
WASHINGTON (AP)  About a third of the female service members in the Air Force and Space Force say they've experienced sexual harassment and many can describe accounts of sexism and a stigma associated with pregnancy and maternity leave, a study released Thursday has found.

The review, done by the Air Force inspector general, also concluded that minorities and women are underrepresented in leadership and officer positions, particularly at the senior levels, and get promoted less frequently. It echoed many of the findings of an initial review, released last December, which found that Black service members in the Air Force are far more likely to be investigated, arrested, face disciplinary actions and be discharged for misconduct.

The two reviews into racial, ethnic and gender disparities across the Air Force and Space Force broadly confirm that biases exist, but the data does not fully explain why. The studies also reflect broader campaigns within the Defense Department and the Biden administration to root out extremism and racism.

President Joe Biden has declared domestic extremism an urgent national security threat and the Defense Department is working to identify extremist behavior and eliminate it from the force. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, earlier this year, ordered military leaders to spend a day talking to their troops about extremism in the ranks, after a number of former and current military members took part in the assault on the U.S. Capitol in January.

In addition, the Defense Department late last year endorsed a slate of initiatives to more aggressively recruit, retain and promote a more racially and ethnically diverse force.

There are a lot of disparities within the Air Force, said Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall in a call with reporters. This includes things like promotions, how people are treated in their careers, how theyre treated in assignments, other areas under the judicial system, if you will, and also about perceptions that people have."

In the latest study, about half of all female respondents said maintaining work/life balance and taking care of family commitments adversely affect them, while only 18% of men responding to the survey shared that view.

It also found that about 25% of female Air Force and Space Force civilians said they had experienced sexual harassment during their careers. And it said some women across the force didn't trust their chain of command to address the bad behavior, and feared retribution.

Women and minorities also said they believe they have to work harder to prove their competency.

While the first study looked at disparities for Black service members, the latest one involved women, Asian, American Indian/Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander and Hispanic/Latino personnel in active duty, the National Guard, Reserves and civilian workforce.

As a result, the report said, thousands of female and minority Air and Space Force members reported instances of bias, discrimination and sexual harassment that contribute to the racial, ethnic and gender disparities laid out in the document.

Lt. Gen. Sami Said, the inspector general, told reporters that some of the largest gaps are in operational jobs, which include pilots and other combat-related posts. As an example, in 2020, nearly 84% of the pilots in the active duty Air Force were white., and more than 92% were male. In contrast, 7.7% were female, 3% were Hispanic/Latino, 2.7% were Asian American, 2% were Black, 0.5% were Native American and 0.3% were Pacific Islander.

The problem, according to Said, starts with recruiting. A common theme in surveys and group discussions, he said, was that women and minorities believe there is a "lack of people that look like us that can mentor us and advise us.

Because they aren't brought in to key operational jobs at decent rates, they are at a disadvantage when competing with others for promotions and better jobs.

In addition, the report found that Native Americans were 113% more likely to face a court-martial than their White peers, and that they and Hispanic/Latino Air Force members were 33% more likely to face criminal investigations.

The second report released Thursday laid out some of the ongoing efforts to address shortfalls found in the December review on bias against Blacks. It also found they were less likely to be promoted and that one-third believed they don't get the same opportunities as their white peers.

It said the Air Force is working to increase diversity awareness among recruiters and expand partnerships with institutions that have large minority populations to beef up recruiting. That effort would include directing more minorities to key career fields that have a greater opportunity for advancement.

The Air Force also has set up new policies to track administrative actions based on age, rank, gender and race, and it recommended more training for commanders and other key leaders on unconscious bias.

Said told reporters that he is 100% convinced that senior leaders are focused on the diversity issue.

Its not a shiny object of the moment that fades, he said.

More than 100,500 individuals participated in the anonymous survey for the latest gender and minority study. The participants also turned in more than 16,900 single-spaced pages of other comments and were involved in 122 small-group discussions.
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP)  All 17 counties in Nevada will be subject to an indoor mask mandate by the end of the week, health officials said Wednesday.

An emergency directive from Gov. Steve Sisolak requires counties adopt mask requirements for indoor public spaces and crowded outdoor spaces in line with guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if they surpass thresholds for COVID-19 transmission.

Rural Eureka County is the state's only jurisdiction currently not subject to a mask requirement, but reported high transmission for the second week in a row, triggering the mandate for Friday, Sept. 10.

The reintroduction of masks and the debut of vaccine requirements in venues like sporting events, conventions and some schools have been met with resistance throughout the state.

In the Las Vegas area, the president of the school board says she has received death threats since the district approved a requirement for employees to get COVID-19 vaccinations.

Clark County School District Board of Trustees President Linda Cavazos said on Twitter that the threats had very disturbing images" but that she and her colleagues were continuing to do their jobs, KVVU-TV reported Wednesday.

We have no time for hate," she added.

The district board voted Sept. 1 to require a vaccination requirement that the district superintendent will draft and implement. The district hasn't yet released details of the mandate.

As approved by the board, the plan will include a process for requesting accommodations for medical conditions or for sincerely held religious beliefs.

Amid talk of a protest against the mandate, the district said Tuesday that over 800 staff members were absent, about double from the day after Labor Day in 2019.

The district said the callouts accounted for less than 5% of the Clark County School District workforce, and noted that staff could have called out for a variety of reasons.
SHELTON - It was back to class for Shelton students Wednesday.

Staff and administrators met with the returning students for what is planned to be a year of full day, in-person learning for the first time since the onset of the pandemic in March 2020. Masks were on students and staff indoors, but administrators said that did not diminish the enthusiasm of day one.

It was an exciting and very quick day ... the kids were so happy to be back, Booth Hill School Principal Dina Marks said. It was wonderful having noise in the hallways again. Lots of elbow bumps were given today.

Marks said the students adapt quickly to wearing the masks, and the school is allowing mask breaks outside.

It was so great to welcome our students back to Long Hill School, Principal Andrea D'Aiuto said. We were happy to welcome all our new families to the school community. Our staff is excited to start the new school year.

Elizabeth Shelton School Principal Jamie Weber said the first day brought the normal hiccups with buses, but that was expected.

It was a great day, Weber said. Students and staff were thrilled to be back in the cafeteria for lunch and using the media center for library classes. We are excited for a new school year and are looking forward to being in person all year.

In an email to parents, Superintendent Ken Saranich stated that last year staffers were forced to think differently about how they educated students and, as a result, we have made education better.

Saranich said the schools had prepared for a successful and safe school year, focused on quality instruction.

It all starts with the first day of school, he said. Our goal is to make our students feel welcomed, safe, and ready to learn. Although every start of a school year brings new challenges, I hope that we can face them collaboratively with a positive and productive attitude that is in the best interest of our students.

Board of Education Chair Kathy Yolish visited several schools, noting that the traffic backups seemed to be endless for a while, but she says that also is due to many parents wanting to bring their children to school and take those first day pictures.

In peeking into classrooms I saw so many masked little ones eager to be in school, Yolish said. A sense of returning to a more normal learning environment seemed to permeate the hallways and classrooms. I am excited and hopeful that this will continue and we can get back to the business of educating our children with minimal interruptions.

brian.gioiele@hearstmediact.com
ST. LOUIS (AP)  The epicenter of Missouris COVID-19 outbreak has shifted to the states southeast, and no place is getting hit harder than Sikeston.

The town of 16,000 residents about 145 miles (230 kilometers) south of St. Louis sits in Scott and New Madrid counties. State tracking on Thursday showed those counties had the worst rates of new COVID-19 cases over the past seven days. Eight of the nine hardest-hit counties over the past week are in the southeastern corner of the state.

Missouri Delta Medical Center in Sikeston posted on Facebook that it had just six people hospitalized with COVID-19 in June. That number rose to 21 in July and 79 in August. The first six days of September saw 20 patients already, including six in intensive care and two on ventilators. None of the 20 patients were vaccinated, the hospital said.

Scott County alone reported 263 new cases over the seven-day period as of Tuesday, and a testing positivity rate of more than 30%. Missouris positivity rate is 11.4%.

The delta variant of the coronavirus first hit Missouri in the southwest of the state in June.

The Missouri COVID-19 dashboard on Thursday cited 1,608 newly confirmed cases and 27 new deaths statewide. Missouri has recorded 644,791 confirmed cases and 10,841 deaths since the onset of the pandemic.

In the Kansas City area, Jackson County officials say they will take the extraordinary step of seeking a court order to close an eatery that has refused to comply with the county's mask requirement.

Raes Cafe in Blue Springs has refused to require masks or post signs requiring them. The county last week revoked its license, but Rae's remained open and said it was now a private club, making it exempt from the mandate.

Caleb Clifford to Democratic County Executive Frank White Jr., said in a statement late Wednesday that the county has tried without success to work with Rae's owner.

That is why, for the first time during the pandemic, the County will be seeking a court order to close the business, the statement said.

St. Louis County's mask mandate also remains a matter of contention. Circuit Judge Ellen Ribaudo said after a hearing Wednesday that she will soon decide if the county can immediately impose a requirement, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Democratic County Executive Sam Page announced the order on July 26 amid rising cases of the delta variant. The County Council voted a day later to rescind it and Republican Attorney General Eric Schmitt obtained a temporary restraining order blocking enforcement of the mandate. Ribaudo then issued a preliminary injunction on Aug. 19.

But after weeks of public testimony, Democratic council members Rita Days and Shalonda Webb switched their votes and the mandate was approved. The county filed a motion to dissolve the injunction, which Ribaudo must decide.

COVID-19 has forced temporary closures at eight smaller school districts already this school year. Mallory McGowin, spokeswoman for the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, said some have reopened. The districts are South Nodaway, Mirabile and Kingston in northwestern Missouri; Southland, Bell City, Zalma and North Pemiscot in the southeast part of the state; and Gilliam in west-central Missouri.
CONCORD, N.H. (AP)  St. Paul's School now has an advocate who provides confidential support to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and a new software system to keep track of campus misconduct reports, according to a compliance monitor hired to oversee the handling of sexual abuse claims at the school.

The report from Donald Sullivan was released Thursday through the New Hampshire attorney general's office, which mandated the position as part of an agreement that subjected the Concord boarding school to as much as five years of government oversight in lieu of criminal charges. The 2018 agreement followed an investigation that found credible evidence of abuse involving 20 former faculty members over several decades.
Contributed Photo / Branford Police Department

BRANFORD  A 42-year-old Branford man pleaded guilty in court Thursday after officials found he had more than 250 unique images and videos of child sexual abuse, according to Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut Leonard Boyle.

Police found that registered sex offender Michael Holm, 42, possessed child sex abuse images on his phone and his Dropbox account from September 2014 to March 2021. Holm also used various websites and mobile applications, such as Discord and Skype, to distribute these images to others, sometimes in exchange for other child sex abuse imagery, Boyles office said.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 73F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies. Low 56F. Winds light and variable.
Niagara Falls, NY (14301)

Today

Showers early, then cloudy in the afternoon. High 73F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable.
The President, Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in Imo State. Buhari landed at the Sam Mbakwe Airport in Owerri, the state capital where...

The President, Muhammadu Buhari has arrived in Imo State.

Buhari landed at the Sam Mbakwe Airport in Owerri, the state capital where he was received by dignitaries.

The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, in a post on Facebook, stated that the President is in the state to commission some projects.

He wrote, It is with a heart full of gratitude that I, on behalf of the good people of Imo State, welcome His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR to the Eastern Heartland on a working visit to commission some of our completed people-oriented projects.

Mr President, we are delighted to have you in Imo State on this august occasion despite your tight schedules and its our pleasure that while in Imo State, you will enjoy the hospitality and conviviality of our people.

More to follow.
Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has faulted President Muhammadu Buharis planned visit to the State. The State Publi...

Imo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has faulted President Muhammadu Buharis planned visit to the State.

The State Publicity Secretary of PDP, Ogubundu Nwadike, said Buharis visit is a mockery on the people of the State.

Governor Hope Uzodinma had recently disclosed that the President would visit the state on Thursday.

Uzodinma said Buhari would commission significant projects during his official visit to the state.

However, Nwadike accused Buhari and Uzodinma of causing war in Imo State.

In a statement by Nwadike, he said: In recent months, Imo, once a land of peace, was forcibly turned into a theatre of war. Today, Imo knows no peace principally because the governor is on the warpath.

Imo under Governor Hope Uzodinma is a police state. Basic freedoms of the people have been curtailed while an army of occupation reigns and rules in the land. The entire scenario leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.

For us in PDP, the presidential visit is a deliberate ploy to mock the people of the state to their very face. This is callous and inhuman.
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has been appointed Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee of Peoples Democratic Par...





Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has been appointed Chairman of the National Convention Planning Committee of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).





A statement released on Thursday by Governor Fintiris Press Secretary, Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, said the decision was reached earlier in the day at the 93rd National Executive Council meeting of the party in Abuja.





Governor Fintiri is to be assisted by the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, according to the statement which explained that the Committee has 128 members.





The statement added that another Committee set up to ensure zoning of party offices for the Convention is to be chaired by Governor Ifeanyi Ugwaunyi of Enugu State.





The 44-member zoning committee has Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State as the Deputy Chairman.





The statement from the Government House in Yola said the Anambra State Governorship Campaign Committee, headed by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, was also inaugurated during the PDP Executive Council meeting on Thursday.
The Nigerian Medical Association and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors on Wednesday blamed the Minister of Labour and Employm...

The Nigerian Medical Association and the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors on Wednesday blamed the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, for the prolonged strike by resident doctors.

The NMAs General Secretary, Philips Ekpe; and the Vice President of NARD, Arome Adejo, made the position of their groups known in separate interviews with newsmen

The NARD had on August 2 begun a nationwide strike over the alleged failure of the Federal Government to pay doctors on residency training and integrate members of the association into the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System.

On Tuesday, Ngige, in an interview with State House correspondents, claimed that the Federal Government did not owe any doctors, but the illegally employed ones.

But Arome told newsmen however that Ngige should be sacked for not telling the truth about the state of things.

He said, NARD as a body calls for the sacking of Ngige for he is the major factor aggravating things; he is also coming out to tell lies about doctors and constantly aggravating the already tensed situation.

He added that contrary to Ngiges claim, the demands of the striking doctors had not been met.

He said, The President should called us alongside Ngige; let him defend himself and let us defend ourselves, no demand has been met.

LetNgige come out straight, no money has been paid and let the insurance money he said was paid be probed.

You claimed to have paid insurance but the people who died have yet to be paid. The MRT fund that was paid, only a fraction was paid.

On the illegal doctors; we were the ones who told them that there were some people like that. We told them last year, we wrote letters to him telling him that money has been paid wrongly to some individuals, we begged him to make sure that the money paid was returned to the right source.

We compiled the names of those who were wrongly paid; he is misleading the President. All he came out to say are fallacies, he should stop inciting people against doctors; anytime he talks he speaks lies, we have evidences.

Also, Ekpe told newsmen that the minister had turned the ongoing crises into a media war.

He said, By now, we thought things would have been resolved and the court case would have been withdrawn, but nothing has been done.

In fact, NARD believes that Ngige has gone to the Presidency to disrupt goodwill.

Why is he drawing issues? Every day he talks, going from one media house to another. He has turned this to a media war.

In fact, the meeting we proposed initially for tomorrow (Thursday), which has now been postponed, was initially based on hazard allowances and not on the ongoing crises or the ultimatum but then it was postponed with no reason.

Now he said there are illegal doctors; first let me say this, who employed the illegal doctors? Did NARD employ the doctors themselves? If you have an illegal doctor then let the CMD be held responsible and why is Ngige bringing this up at this point in time?

He should pay the doctors for the work they have done. He should not order doctors back to work or order them to stop the strike. NMA is not interested in media fight, we want problems solved.
The United Nations (UN) says incessant attacks of schools and abduction of schoolchildren in Nigeria are threatening the future of the cou...

The United Nations (UN) says incessant attacks of schools and abduction of schoolchildren in Nigeria are threatening the future of the country.





Edward Kallon, the UN resident and humanitarian coordinator for Nigeria, on Thursday called on the federal government to intensify efforts to protect students.

Kallon made the call in a statement to mark the 2021 International Day to Protect Education from Attack which is commemorated every September 9.

I strongly condemn every form of attack that has kept many children away from schools. I call on the Federal and State Governments to do more to protect schools from attack and to ensure that teaching and learning is safe and conducive in all schools in Nigeria, he said.





Whenever teaching and learning is disrupted, the impact on human capital development is enormous as the recovery period is always tortuous and longer than the length of the initial disruption.

Children are traumatized; parents are scared; teachers and school administrators are afraid; attacks on schools are gradually spreading to areas not known to insurgencies. With education under attack, the collective future of Nigeria is under threat. This must stop now.

Kallon said Nigeria cannot afford to leave the situation of incessant attacks on schools to remain unchecked.





He called on the government to take decisive action to protect education from attack and give this great nations children the chance to fulfill their promise.

He added: With over 10 million children already out of school, conflict has aggravated the situation and deeply affected education and the prospects of many young people, especially its most vulnerable ones. In the last academic year, it is estimated that 1.3 million children have been impacted by attacks or abductions at schools in Nigeria.

Across the north-east region alone, over 600,000 children remain out of school and some 1.1 million need educational support to stay in school. This has all been compounded by the setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is aimed at raising awareness of the plight of children in conflict-affected areas growing up without access to education.
The crisis over the Value Added Tax deepened on Wednesday with the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, ordering companies based in the sta...

The crisis over the Value Added Tax deepened on Wednesday with the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, ordering companies based in the state to start paying VAT to the state government.

Wike gave the order during a stakeholders meeting in Port Harcourt with representatives of Shell Petroleum Development Company and other oil companies as well as business owners in the state.





The governor, who accused the Federal Inland Revenue Service of threatening companies based in the state, said any organisation that failed to pay VAT to the state would be sealed off.





Similarly, the Lagos State Government said on Wednesday that a letter written by the FIRS to the National Assembly seeking inclusion of VAT on the exclusive legislative list would not stop the bill on the tax currently before the state House of Assembly.





It can be recalled that the FIRS, in a bid to retain the collection of the tax, wrote to the National Assembly to seek the inclusion of VAT collection in the exclusive legislative list.





Last month, the Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, in a judgment in suit number FHC/PH/CS/149/2020, held that the Rivers State Government had the powers to collect VAT within its territory.

Although the FIRS applied to the court for a stay of execution, Justice Stephen Pam rejected the application, saying granting it would negate the principle of equity.

The VAT crisis took a different dimension on Monday when a bill to empower the Lagos State Government to collect the tax scaled the second reading in the state House of Assembly.





On Tuesday, the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly said it would soon start work on a bill to enable the state government to collect VAT.





On Wednesday, a letter was written by the FIRS to the National Assembly on the matter.





The letter, signed by the Executive Chairman of the FIRS, Muhammad Nami, and dated July 1, 2021, was addressed to the Chairman of the House Constitution Review Committee, who is also the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase.





The letter, with reference number FIRS/EC/CWREP/0416/21/037, which was received by Wases office on July 2, was titled, Request for sponsorship of a bill for the establishment of the proposed Federal Revenue Court of Nigeria and the insertion of Value Added Tax under item 58 of the exclusive legislative list.





The federal tax agency specifically pleaded with the legislature to vest exclusively in it all adjudication of tax disputes, including federal tax laws, Companies Income Tax, Petroleum Tax, Income Tax, Capital Gain Tax, Stamp Duty, VAT, taxes, levies and other laws, regulations, proclamations, government notices and rules.





The letter read in part, The Federal Inland Revenue Service further proposes the amendment of Section 251 (1) (b) of the Constitution of the FRN, 1999 (amended) by removing the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court only on anything connected or related to federal tax matters since same would be vested in the proposed federal revenue court.





The Federal Inland Revenue Service also proposes the insertion of Value Added Tax immediately after Stamp Duties under item 58, part II of the 2nd schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the FRN.





The Federal Inland Revenue Service appreciates the maximum cooperation and support we are receiving from your good office on tax matters generally.





This has boosted our morale and determination to do more for the government in tax revenue generation.





The FIRS therefore wishes to further request that the House of Representatives consider the request for the establishment of the Federal Revenue Court. 





Wike unveils Rivers VAT law, orders business owners to begin payment

The Rivers State governor, on Wednesday, ordered construction firms, manufacturers and business owners as well as other firms in the oil-rich state to begin the remittance of their VAT to the state from this month.





The governor, who said Rivers State was generating an average of N15bn VAT to the FIRS monthly, lamented that the Federal Government was only giving the state a paltry 25 per cent of the revenue.





Wike said he did not care if the heavens would fall and insisted that Rivers money was not meant for Abuja people, but for the development of the state, adding that the legal system had empowered the state to begin the collection of VAT.





He also said the amount being generated into the FIRS purse was too much and, therefore, slashed the amount payable as VAT by business owners. The governor, however, did not specify the percentage to be paid.





Wike unveiled the Rivers State VAT Law, 2021 and vowed to sanction any firm that failed to comply with the remittance of VAT to the state revenue board.





River generated N15bn VAT in June, got N4.7bn; Kano earned N2.8bn, got same back





Speaking at the stakeholders meeting, Wike lamented the injustice in the country, saying Rivers State generated N15bn VAT revenue in June this year, but got N4.7bn in return, while Kano generated N2.8bn in the same month and got the same N2.8bn back, adding, Sometimes, you dont want to believe these things exist.





Rivers State is challenging the FIRS from collecting VAT in Rivers State. I am not challenging the FIRS from collecting VAT in Abuja. Let it be understood. The law says Rivers must collect VAT in the state.





The Federal Government surreptitiously lobbied to amend the constitution to place VAT collection in the exclusive legislative list.









We have challenged it and we have no apologies to anybody. I dont want to be in the good books of anybody, but in the good books of God.





You dont bully a state like us. The FIRS should be very careful. I have the political will to do a lot of things. If they continue to bully us, I will take (over) all their offices in the state.





The governor warned oil companies and business owners not to henceforth remit their VAT to the FIRS, but to the Rivers State Government.





He stated, I dont want you to fall prey to the people, who think they can use force to take our money.





If you want to take advantage and say you dont know who to pay to, it is a lie, you know.





From this September, we must collect all our VAT.

Wike orders RIRS to collect VAT, warns defaulters

All the banks playing pranks by saying they have not heard from their head offices, I will seal off your branches. If I say I will, know that I will.





We will not look back but seal off the premises of such companies.





Wike added that Rivers did not need the Nigeria Police Force to enforce the collection of VAT, but would use the state-created security outfit that was backed by law.





He stated, I will be happy at my time that heaven came down, because I will create a record that it was my time that heaven came down.





We dont have to use the police; we have our security (outfit) as allowed by law and we will use it.





Please tell your authorities to pay our VAT to our revenue board, which of course you have been told how to do it.





Until there is a (court) order stopping us, we wont stop the collection. If an appeal (court) revokes it, no problem, but the position of the law today is that VAT is for Rivers State.





We are even going back to collect the one they took before. All the ones they have taken before, we are compiling it; they have to pay back to us.





All those states that are loyal (to the Federal Government) should wait, but the Rivers State Government will collect all that is due to us within the confinement of the law; we will not go outside the law.





I have looked at the total VAT every month, I have even reduced it; I dont want this; it is too much; I have even reduced it to what I will collect and I have projects to do with it every month.





The FIRS cannot threaten you. We are the landlords here, I hope you know that. We have enormous powers to use by law.





All governors will perform with adequate revenue, says Wike





Wike also said all state governors would perform well if their states were getting enough revenue.





He said, The problem with us is that we only depend on federal allocations. That is why you hear that most governors are not performing; how will they perform?





Please, pay the money on time, because every Friday, I will check it.





By the end of this month, I want to see the VAT collection.





If somebody takes what does not belong to them, what do you call them? These people, who take what does not belong to them, collect it for us and you will see what we will do with it; we will turn this state around.





I have told the attorney-general to give you the VAT law, the Withholding Tax, the Stamp Duty and everything payable to us.





The Rivers State Government is fully in charge of this and we will not hesitate to apply sanctions as provided under the VAT Law No. 4 of Rivers State, 2021.





Wike also alleged that the FIRS was writing threat letters to intimidate corporate organisations to pay taxes to it, even after it lost an appeal that sought a stay of execution of the declarative ruling on VAT collection in the state.





VAT collection wont work at state level, says FIRS





But the FIRS said the collection of VAT at the sub-national level was not achievable in the country.





The Group Lead, Special Operations Group, FIRS, Matthew Gbonjubola, said this during a chat with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.





Gbonjubola said contrary to misconceptions in some quarters, the FIRS was administering VAT on behalf of the three tiers of government and not for the Federal Government alone.





According to him, the revenue from VAT is administered under an arrangement that allows the Federal Government to collect 15 per cent; the states, 50 per cent; and local governments, 35 per cent.





FIRS letter to NAssembly wont stop our bill  Lagos





The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, said the state would go ahead with its VAT bill irrespective of the action of the FIRS.





Omotoso, in an interview with one of our correspondents on Wednesday, said the state had the right to make laws that would help it to govern the people.





He said, The FIRS has a right to write to the National Assembly to seek some concession in whatever aspect of any law it deems necessary; it is a right that nobody can take away from it; states also have a right to formulate laws that they think will help them in the business of government.





As far as this revenue allocation matter is concerned, Lagos State has taken some steps that will further enhance its stability to go along the line that it recognises as a right in this debate over VAT.





The process that the state government has started, there is nothing there that will make it reconsider it. The bill has been sent to the state House of Assembly and the House is already considering the bill. Irrespective of whatever the FIRS is doing, the Lagos State Government is not going to fold its hands and miss the opportunity for us to push the argument for true fiscal federalism forward.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Rain showers this morning with overcast skies during the afternoon hours. High 69F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 53F. Winds light and variable.
Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Showers early, then cloudy in the afternoon. High 69F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 53F. Winds light and variable.
Bob Lessnau, the Audubon Zoos curator of animals, rode out Hurricane Ida with 35 staff members at the Uptown New Orleans institution. When the power went out, generators provided emergency electricity. It was a tense few hours, as the wind and rain roared past.

You just have to wait it out, with the anticipation and the anxiety that builds, Lessnau said.

Yet all the animals survived at both the zoo and at the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas on the downtown riverfront  and one even gave birth during the storm. No reopening date has been set for either attraction.

Lessnau said the zoo animals were secured inside enclosures for Ida  or at least most were. At the height of the Aug. 29 hurricane, a Barasingha deer escaped through a collapsed fence. Lessnau said staff members set out to retrieve the animal, but it was too hazardous to be out in the elements.

After the wind eased, staff found the deer hunkered down in some brush. A native of Nepal, the creature is known as a swamp deer. So, Lessnau said, it is at home in south Louisiana conditions.

As staff surveyed the zoo grounds, they discovered downed trees and branches but little other conspicuous damage.

Lessnau said that one of the first priorities was to be sure that all of our code red dangerous animals were accounted for and secure. The designation includes everything from lions to rhinoceroses. After that, the crew examined the animals outdoor pens, which were intact.

Within 48 to 72 hours of Ida's departure, Lessnau said, the animals were returned to their outdoor environments. Power was restored to the zoo relatively quickly, but theres been at least one mini-blackout since, he said.

Asked how the animals reacted to the storm, Lessnau said he thinks they have a perception of changes in their environments, but none of the creatures seemed to exhibit evidence of stress.

Theyve adapted to the New Orleans environment, he said. They probably do better than most people.

+7 When the power comes back, so will we, say New Orleans hurricane evacuees For Hurricane Ida evacuees, the timing of their return to the New Orleans area can hinge on any number of things. But one appears to trump all

Lessnau was quick to thank the zoos animal keepers and maintenance workers, who set their private lives aside to ensure the safety of their wards. And all of this on top of a pandemic, he said. I applaud our staff for enduring during this challenging time.

At the aquarium, a 17-person emergency crew also weathered Hurricane Ida. The heavy winds caused minor damage to some windows surrounding the Amazon Exhibit, but otherwise the striking building survived, as did the collection of water creatures inside.

Though commercial power failed at the aquarium during the storm, as it did throughout southeast Louisiana, emergency generators compensated, sustaining the aquatic displays. We were extremely happy about how all of the systems worked, said Katie Smith, the Audubon Institutes vice president of marketing.

There was no loss that Im aware of, Smith said. On the contrary, a cownose ray gave birth Aug. 29 to a pup, which was  naturally  named Ida.

News of the survival of all the many species at the aquarium will be a particular relief to New Orleanians who recall the catastrophe that befell the attraction during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Circumstances in the flooded city forced the emergency staff to abandon the building, which resulted in the death of most of the collection.

To avoid the possibility of a similar occurrence, the Freeport-McMoRan Audubon Species Survival Center, a facility for propagating threatened animals, located on the west bank of New Orleans, shipped 24 cownose rays and one zebra shark to the Mississippi Aquarium and the Institute of Marine Mammal Studies in Gulfport Mississippi. The management of the Survival Center evacuated the marine species on Sept. 3 because the facility was then operating on limited generator power in the aftermath of the Aug. 29 storm.

Evacuation is an emergency option in response to conditions after a hurricane, but the Audubon Institute does not transport animals away from the potential path of tropical weather. "Storms can shift and we do not want to unnecessarily stress the animals in our care, Smith said. Staying at our facilities is the best option.

Smith said theres no timetable for reopening the zoo or aquarium to the public at this time. She predicts the aquarium will be ready to receive guests sooner than the zoo.
The people pulled up in work trucks and family cars with four kids sharing the backseat. They followed the yellow arrows still painted on the pavement, directing them around the slab that was once a McDonalds to where the long-gone restaurants drive-thru window had stood. They collected free cartons of butter beans and boiled turkey necks and drove off through another hot day in New Orleans East after Hurricane Ida.

Soon after the storm, this lot at the corner of Downman and Morrison roads became a homegrown hub of help and fellowship.

It started after the bounce rapper 10th Ward Buck (a.k.a Buck Horton) and local actor Lucky Johnson got together to do something for their neighbors. Normally, this site is a parking lot for party buses. The McDonald's was cleared away years ago. Johnson has plans to develop a food truck lot here to boost the local food options.

But in the emergency after Ida, the two friends turned it into something for the moment.

Help from the top is great, but sometimes it comes down to the common man serving each other, said Johnson. Its using what you have and where it can help.

Theyve been at it for a week now, setting up with fresh supplies each day. At first, it was the essentials  water, ice, even gas, dispensed for free from large tanks into the small cans that were keeping generators going during the blackout.

Soon they added food. With seafood boiling pots, trailer-mounted smokers and prep tables under pop-up tents, they assembled what looked like a giant tailgate party there on the corner. People soon brought batches of their own food from restaurants or home kitchens to contribute.

Some people who showed up for meals later came back to volunteer, helping cook, clean up and drive loads of food and supplies to people who cant get to the Downman Road site.

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Countless grassroots efforts for mutual aid and community support have materialized after Ida, running alongside the mainline relief programs from government agencies, church groups and nonprofits. This one was propelled simply by the desire to help, and the memories of what happened after a very different disaster.

After Katrina, we were on the rooftops, and people had nothing, we werent going to let that happen again, Horton said. Because we survived Katrina we knew what people would need. We needed to help.

They've been feeding up to 500 people a day, and they keep taking it one day at a time.

Neighbors, recovery workers, even cops and firefighters have been coming through, following the old painted drive-thru arrows. Others walk up, taking a break in the blistering heat at one of the camp chairs under the tents set up around the outdoor kitchen.

Sometimes its just talking to somebody and remembering that other people are here for you, said Horton. We want to give people a little sense of ease and give them a meal so they can make it through the day and get back on the grind.

+10 Had to feed my people. With free meals all week, a Gretna restaurant inspires others One morning after Hurricane Ida, under a searing sun in a cloudless sky, Kwesi Jordan once again lit the gas-fired grill outside his Gretna re

+11 Stricken by Hurricane Ida, New Orleans restaurants spring into action to feed others Local baker Kelly Mayhew drove back to New Orleans the night after riding out Hurricane Ida with family in Texas, but he didnt come back to b

+5 How New Orleans restaurants are reopening after Ida: few staff, early hours, slashed menus A few days after Hurricane Ida knocked out electricity, Jessica and Alonzo Knox opened their Basin Street cafe Backatown Coffee Parlour to giv
Fellow members of the Hot 8 Brass Band have established a GoFundMe campaign to benefit the family of co-founder and sousaphonist Bennie Pete and help pay for his funeral expenses.

Pete died Sept. 6 of complications from COVID-19 and sarcoidosis, a chronic inflammatory condition that had bedeviled his heart and nervous system for years. He was 45.

The soft-spoken Pete, a gentle giant of a man, was a tireless advocate for New Orleans culture in general and brass band music specifically. He led the Grammy-nominated Hot 8 for more than 20 years. He and his bandmates traveled the world while also remaining fixtures of local parades, funerals and clubs.

+4 Hot 8 Brass Band's Bennie Pete, 45, has died of complications from sarcoidosis and COVID Bennie Pete, the co-founder and sousaphone player of the Hot 8 Brass Band, died early Monday at New Orleans East Hospital of complications fro

Pete leaves behind his wife, Lameka; two-year-old twins Brennon and Brannon Pete; an 8-year-old son, Bennie Pete III; and step-daughters La'Shae, 19, and Laila, 11.

With the first 24 hours after the GoFundMe for his family kicked off, it had raised more than $9,000 of its $15,000 goal. Actor and businessman Wendell Pierce, a New Orleans native, contributed $1,000, making him the largest donor to the fund so far.

"New Orleans has lost an icon in the midst of our storm," Pierce wrote on Twitter while encouraging his followers to contribute to the Bennie Pete fund. "A musical leader who embraced the historic tradition of our culture, while leading a new generation in the New Orleans brass band legacy."

In a statement released on social media and in the introduction to the GoFundMe, Pete's bandmembers wrote, "He was more than just our leader; he was a constant galvanizing force within our own family of fellow musicians and beyond. Bennie was a rock in our lives....

"Bennie helped all of us endure, to heal by encouraging us to continuing to play our music despite any adversities. After Hurricane Katrina and the failure of the federal levees, Bennie emerged as a symbol of perseverance and hope for all of New Orleans. His commitment to ensuring the cultural continuity of New Orleanss most authentic, unique and deeply rooted cultural traditions, rituals and practices was unwavering. Bennies greatest wish was that New Orleans culture live on for future generations, and that the brass tradition continue to be a model of strength and a barometer of a healthy New Orleans cultural ecosystem."

With that in mind, the Hot 8 plans to continue to perform. "We will continue to honor his legacy by playing music, taking it to the streets, and bringing hope and joy to all of those who are lucky enough to be part of what makes our city so special."
To kick off its reopening post-Ida  and perhaps in honor of Hot Linemen September  Larry Flynts Hustler Club New Orleans is offering a free cocktail to all linemen and first responders this weekend.

Its part of the strip clubs Nudity for Humanity campaign to help in the aftermath of the storm. Stormy Daniels, who has also been distributing food and supplies to people locally, is leading the campaigns emergency pop-up distribution center.

Go Best Inc. is shipping truckloads of supplies from Shreveport to the Hustler Club on Bourbon Street, including generators, gas, battery operated fans and lights, coolers and tarps. Managers and entertainers are distributing the supplies throughout the city.

The complimentary cocktail offer starts 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday at both Larry Flynts Hustler Club and the Barely Legal Club. Additionally, the club is donating half of all proceeds to Second Harvest Food Bank.

We figure out a way to have fun and party no matter what, Daniels said. 'Hey, turn my power on and come see some boobs. Have a free drink and look at some titties. If that's not New Orleans, I don't know what is."

+5 Louisiana Is Ready For Hot Linemen September The people of South Louisiana are hot and thirsty  mostly for linemen.
Jefferson Parish's 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew has been extended through Friday, officials announced Wednesday.

The curfew has been in place since Hurricane Ida pummeled the region, downing power lines and trees that continue to jeopardize public safety at night.

New Orleans lifted its curfew Wednesday after the majority of Entergy customers had their power restored. Jefferson Parish is still the most affected area, where about 130,000 homes and businesses remained dark on Tuesday morning.

Parish officials are also urging residents to limit all non-essential sewer services as much as possible, including washing clothes, cleaning dishes and showering. Residents can continue using their essential sewer services, such as using the bathroom, until the sewer system is operating at normal capacity.

Other updates released by parish officials on Wednesday:

Shelters:

All Jefferson Parish residents in need of shelter due to Hurricane Ida should go to Kings Grant Playground, 3805 15th St. in Harvey. Those without transportation can call the Emergency Operations Center at (504) 349-5360. This shelter will replace PARD Playground, which will no longer be in operation due to a power outage. If you know of someone who is medically vulnerable who needs shelter and assistance due to Hurricane Ida, please call (504) 349-5360. The shelter for those with medical needs is located at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center; however, this shelter is not accepting walk-ups. All must call first in order to be triaged before being transported.

If a loved one was evacuated through PARD/Kings Grant and is at a state run shelter, they can call (225) 342-2727 to connect with their loved one. They can also fill out the following form to be connected to their family member. http://www.dcfs.louisiana.gov/form/dcfs-connect.

Ice, Water, MREs & Tarps:

Ice, water, MREs and tarps are available every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (or while supplies last) at the following locations. These are drive-thru only sites. FEMA Survivor services are also available.

Alario Center - 2000 Segnette Blvd. Westwego, LA 70094

The Shrine on Airline - 6000 Airline Dr. Metairie, LA 70003

Helen Cox High School - 2200 Lapalco Blvd, Harvey 70058

Johnny Bright Playground  3401 Cleary Ave. Metairie 70002

Need a ride to food, water, ice or shelter bus pickup? Uber and Lyft are offering 2 free rides. Use the following codes:

UBER: IDARELIEF2021

LYFT: IDARELIEF21

Office & School Closures:

All Jefferson Parish Government buildings, facilities, parks and playgrounds are closed through at least the end of this week, September 10, 2021. This includes Lafreniere Park, Parc De Families, the Bonnabel Boat launch and Bucktown Harbor Marina due to debris/downed trees and power lines.

Jefferson Parish Schools will not reopen this week. All schools and buildings remain closed until further notice. Jefferson Parish Schools is currently assessing the impact of Hurricane Ida at each school. Upon reviewing those conditions, a clear path forward for learning will be provided.

Jefferson Transit Service:

Jefferson Parish Transit has launched a limited fare free bus service to help residents get access to essential resources such as grocery stores, ice, water and shelters. The 6 available routes are:

E1-Veterans

2 Buses

Start point-Airport

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End Point-Cemetery

E2-Airline

2 Buses

Start Point: Old Airport

End Point: Cold storage Road

E3- Kenner Local

1 Bus

Start Point: Coleman Place

End Point: Jefferson @ Knox stop id 745

W1-Avondale

1 Bus - Normal Route

Start Point-Walkertown Terminal

End Point-Fire station @ capital and cathedral

W3-Lapalco

1 Bus - Normal Route-with the exception of going to Downtown New Orleans

Start Point-Wilty Terminal

End of route: Lapalco and Victory Stop ID 845

W10- Huey P Long

1 Bus - Normal Route

Start Point-Walkertown Terminal

End Point-Yenni Building

For more information, contact Jefferson Parish's emergency operations center at (504) 349-5360 or visit www.jeffparish.net/storm. Residents can also receive regular updates by following the Parish on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@JeffParishGov) or by texting JPALERT or JPNOTICIAS to 888-777.
With thousands of homes and businesses still empty and dark following Hurricane Ida, law enforcement officials in the River Parishes say they've added extra patrols staffed with officers from other agencies to combat looting and other crime.

St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre said his deputies are also using night-vision cameras to catch suspects who try to use the darkened streets as cover.

"I've got teams out there and we're using thermal vision, and we're catching them," Tregre said. "It's a game changer for us."

+6 Glimmer of hope: Power returns to one community in St. Charles Parish after Hurricane Ida Though the power remains out for more than 95% of St. Charles Parish residents and businesses after Hurricane Ida, the lights are now on in at

As of Monday, the St. John Sheriff's Office had arrested nine suspected looters. In St. Charles Parish, the Sheriff's Office responded to about 15 reports of looting during the first week after the storm and had arrested three suspects.

The River Parishes, west of New Orleans, experienced some of the worst of Hurricane Ida. St. Charles had extreme wind damage and in St. John, storm surge from Lake Pontchartrain flooded some LaPlace neighborhoods. Power to both parishes remains largely out.

The suspected cases in the River Parishes are among a number of looking reports across the region in the wake of Ida, which raked area parishes with 100-plus mph winds and drenching rains. The Aug. 29-30 storm leveled some communities and tore up the electrical grid, plunging hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses into a hot, sticky, days-long power outage.

In Orleans and Jefferson parishes, power had mostly been restored as of Thursday.

In the first five days after the storm, New Orleans police investigated about 120 calls reporting looting, which Louisiana law defines as the burglary of a home or business left unattended because of an evacuation related to a hurricane or some other emergency.

Police had booked nearly 60 people with looting, including four juveniles, while obtaining 14 warrants to arrest people who were at large. The cases mostly involved convenience stores and other shops.

Over the same time frame in Jefferson Parish, there were just fewer than 25 people booked with looting, records show.

Brittany Ecuyer, of Destrehan, said someone burglarized her shed in the days just after Ida passed, while her husband was at a neighbor's house.

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"They broke into our shed and stole lawn equipment and a can of gas next to the generator," Ecuyer said. "It was in the middle of the night."

And in Paradis, someone entered a door left open to help dry out a flooded Birdies convenience store and stole $25,000 worth of cigarettes, alcohol and other merchandise, according to the St. Charles Sheriff's Office. The case is still under investigation.

+2 Ten days after Hurricane Ida, progress on power restoration but still more than 280,000 offline The number of homes and businesses still without power 10 days after Hurricane Ida chewed up the area's electricity infrastructure stood at ab

Power isn't expected to be restored in St. Charles and St. John parishes for at least another two to three weeks. To help with patrols, both departments have received help from out of town.

About 40 deputies from the Santa Rosa, Bay, Marion and the Nassau County Sheriff's Offices in Florida are working with St. Charles Parish to patrol neighborhoods, direct traffic and distribute hurricane supplies, Grimaldi said.

"It is a great benefit and their assistance is extremely appreciated," he said.

The extra hands gives deputies who've been working 12- to 16-hours a day, seven days a week, a much-needed break.

"It's a chance for my officers, who had devastation and property damage, to get themselves situated," said Tregre, whose department is being augmented by several dozen deputies from Ouachita, Rapides and Iberville parishes.

Tregre noted that he has seen fewer reports of looting in the wake of Hurricane Ida than he has for previous major storms, including Hurricane Isaac in 2012, which caused similar wide-spread flooding. He said he belives that's because most people stayed and rode out the storm.

"There's a lot of people still in their houses, protecting their own property," Tregre said.

Both St. Charles and St. John Parishes currently have curfews. In St. Charles, it's from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m.; in St. John, from dusk to dawn.

Both agencies assured that they're doing everything they can to prevent looting while residents and business owners are away.

"Looting is anticipated but not accepted," Tregre said.
A third person has been arrested in connection with the Houston shooting that killed an NOPD officer and a Zulu member who were there on a guys' trip, according to a Houston TV station.

Khalil Nelson, 19, will be in court at 10 a.m. Thursday, according to a report from KHOU.com. His charges weren't immediately available.

Frederick Jackson, 19, and Anthony Jenkins, 21, were previously arrested and charged with capital murder in the deaths of NOPD Det. Everett Briscoe and Dyrin DJ Riculfy.

Police said in their initial account that Briscoe, Riculfy and other members of the Zulu club on a guys trip were gathered on the patio of the Grotto Ristorante when two hooded men approached and ordered them to put their hands up. The apparent robbery ended with Briscoe, 41, dead and Riculfy, 43, seriously wounded. The robbers fled the scene with nothing, according to police.

Riculfy, who had been on life support since the Aug. 21 shooting, died earlier this month.

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Staff writers Matt Sledge and Ramon Antonio Vargas contributed to this story.

+8 Gang members on prowl for jewelry killed off-duty NOPD cop in 'robbery gone bad': Houston PD When Houston Police Chief Troy Finner arrived at the scene of a daytime shooting last weekend that left an off-duty New Orleans cop dead, he h

+14 New Orleans Detective Everett Briscoe honored at funeral: 'To know him is to love him' In life, New Orleans Detective Everett Briscoe was a member of many families: his own, the Masons, the Police Department and the Zulu Social A
A Jefferson Parish sheriff's deputy shot at a Texas motorist who the Sheriff's Office said reached for a gun after refusing to pull over for a traffic stop Wednesday night in Avondale.

The driver, identified as Dustin Hendricks, 34, of Dayton, Texas, was not hit, said Capt. Jason Rivarde, a Sheriff's Office spokesman.

+2 National Guard member arrested at Alario Center distribution site pulled gun on colleague: JPSO A member of the Louisiana National Guard assigned to hand out hurricane relief supplies at the Alario Center near Westwego was arrested Wednes

But Hendricks ran into the nearby woods and spent the night hiding there, according to authorities.

The incident began about 8 p.m. when an unidentified deputy attempted to pull Hendricks over on South Jamie Boulevard in Avondale for reckless driving, Rivarde said. Hendricks refused to stop and drove south on Jamie, eventually crashing into a fence.

Hendricks got out of his vehicle and is accused of grabbing for a gun in his waistband, Rivarde said.

+3 Metairie gas station killing could again test state's self-defense law: 'It's sad and horrible' It had been five days since Hurricane Ida disrupted power and led to hours long gas lines throughout southeast Louisiana, and 36-year-old Dway

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"Believing his life was in imminent danger from Hendricks' actions, the pursuing deputy fired a duty weapon at Hendricks one time," Rivarde said.

The Sheriff's Office had not recovered a gun as of early Thursday afternoon.

Uninjured, Hendricks ran into a heavily-wooded area. The Sheriff's Office brought in dogs and sent up a helicopter to search for him.

But deputies didn't find Hendricks until Thursday morning when he was spotted in a canal along Jamie Boulevard about a half-mile away from the traffic stop, according to authorities.

For several hours, Hendricks swam in the canal and away from deputies on the banks, Rivarde said. But he inadvertently found himself in a shallow area, and deputies took him into custody with the assistance of one of the dogs.

Hendricks was taken to the hospital to be treated for a dog bite, Rivarde said. He will be booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna with aggravated assault on a peace officers. Other charges are possible, Rivarde said.
MONROE, La.  The most violent videos languished for years, lost or ignored in a digital vault. Louisiana State Police troopers and top brass alike would often look the other way, even as officers took to official messaging channels to banter about their brutality.

In one video, White troopers can be seen slamming a Black man against a police cruiser after finding marijuana in his car, throwing him to the ground and repeatedly punching him  all while he is handcuffed.

In another, a White trooper pummels a Black man at a traffic stop 18 times with a flashlight, leaving him with a broken jaw, broken ribs and a gash to his head. That footage was mislabeled and it took 536 days and a lawsuit for police to look into it.

And yet another video shows a White trooper coldcocking a Hispanic drug trafficking suspect as he stood calmly by a highway, an unprovoked attack never mentioned in any report and only investigated when the footage was discovered by an outraged federal judge.

As the Louisiana State Police reel from the fallout of the deadly 2019 arrest of Ronald Greene  a case blown open this year by long-withheld video of troopers stunning, punching and dragging the Black motorist  an Associated Press investigation has revealed it is part of a pattern of violence kept shrouded in secrecy.

New videos

An AP review of internal investigative records and newly obtained videos identified at least a dozen cases over the past decade in which Louisiana State Police troopers or their bosses ignored or concealed evidence of beatings, deflected blame and impeded efforts to root out misconduct.

AP's review  coming amid a widening federal investigation into state police misconduct  found troopers have made a habit of turning off or muting body cameras during pursuits. When footage is recorded, the agency routinely refuses to release it. And a recently retired supervisor who oversaw a particularly violent clique of troopers told internal investigators this year that it was his "common practice" to rubber-stamp officers' use-of-force reports without reviewing body-camera video.

+3 Ranking Louisiana trooper at scene of Ronald Greene's violent death cleared of misconduct A Louisiana State Police internal investigation into alleged misconduct by the ranking trooper at the scene of Ronald Greene's beating and dea

In some cases, troopers omitted uses of force such as blows to the head from official reports, and in others troopers sought to justify their actions by claiming suspects were violent, resisting or escaping, all of which were contradicted by video footage.

"Hyper-aggressiveness is winked upon and nodded and allowed to go on," said Andrew Scott, a former Boca Raton, Florida, police chief and use-of-force expert who reviewed videos obtained by AP. "It's very clear that the agency accepts that type of behavior."

Most of those beaten in the cases AP found were Black, in keeping with the agency's own tally that 67% of its uses of force in recent years have targeted Black people  double the percentage of the state's Black population. AP reporting revealed that a secret panel the state police set up this year to determine whether troopers systematically abused Black motorists was just as secretly shut down, leaving the agency blind to potential misconduct.

'These things are racially motivated'

The revelations come as civil rights and Black leaders urge the U.S. Justice Department to launch a broader, "pattern and practice" investigation into potential systemic racial profiling by the overwhelmingly White state police, similar to other probes opened in recent months in Minneapolis, Louisville and Phoenix.

"These things are racially motivated," said Alanah Odoms, executive director of the ACLU of Louisiana. "It doesn't seem you could have this level of criminality going on without it being something much more sinister."

It's not clear how the Louisiana State Police rate of force against Black people compares to that of other states because there is no national benchmark and definitions of uses of force differ between jurisdictions. Activists, however, say it points to a clear problem.

"Driving while Black is still a crime in Louisiana," said Eugene W. Collins, president of the Baton Rouge branch of the NAACP, adding that the numbers "prove our assertion that our communities are woefully over-policed."

Col. Lamar Davis, the state police superintendent, declined requests for an interview but said in a statement that the agency has completely revised its excessive force policies and practices and implemented numerous reforms in the 11 months since he took office.

"No instance of excessive force is acceptable," he said, "and when the department learns of such misconduct, an immediate review is launched leading to administrative and/or potential criminal investigations."

Davis said transparency is a priority but "ongoing criminal and civil litigation prevents the immediate release of videos and investigative details in many of these incidents."

He said he doesn't believe a federal pattern and practice investigation is needed "at this time." The Justice Department did not answer questions about whether it's considering one.

The state police have been under intense scrutiny since May when the AP published previously unreleased body camera footage of Greene's May 10, 2019, arrest at the end of a high-speed chase near Monroe. It showed White troopers stunning, beating and dragging Greene as he pleaded for mercy. One clip that a supervisor denied having for two years showed troopers leaving the heavyset Greene prone and shackled facedown for more than nine minutes. Among the 49-year-old's last words: "I'm your brother. I'm scared! I'm scared!"

In Ronald Greene police brutality case, FBI orders a second look at autopsy The FBI is taking the unusual step of ordering a new look at the autopsy of Black motorist Ronald Greene to consider evidence not provided aft

It was a jarring rush of images in a death that troopers initially blamed on a car crash and that took 474 days to prompt an internal investigation. Gov. John Bel Edwards was among the officials who repeatedly rebuffed requests to release the video.

"These are tactics they've been using forever and we're tired of it," said Terrance Key, an Army veteran who grew up with Greene in northern Louisiana. "They've been getting away with this s--- for so long."

Recently, a federal investigation into Greene's death was broadened to include allegations of obstruction of justice involving Louisiana State Police brass. Among the incidents under scrutiny is the shutdown of the secret panel state police set up to investigate possible systemic abuse of Black motorists.

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The seven-member panel had been focused on reviewing thousands of hours of body camera footage from about a dozen specific troopers in northern Louisiana's Troop F, including some of those involved in the beatings of Greene and three other Black motorists.

But according to several people familiar with the matter who spoke to AP on condition of anonymity, the panel was abruptly disbanded in July after just a few months' work following leaks about its existence. State police did not immediately act on the panel's recommendations, but Davis said the agency has since referred some of the problematic incidents to internal investigators. He did not identify those incidents.

Among the cases identified by AP's review is a March 2019 arrest in northeastern Louisiana's Ouachita Parish where a trooper was caught on dash-camera video grabbing Black marijuana suspect Deshawn Washington by his hair and slamming the 20-year-old into the hood of a police cruiser, a use of force omitted from the police report. At one point, Washington's friend, Shomari King, a 21-year-old who was also arrested, asked, "Why y'all being so rough?"

In another case from August 2019, Darrell Smith, a White motorist who fled a traffic stop near Baton Rouge, contended in a lawsuit that troopers caught up with him and beat him beyond recognition, causing him to be hospitalized with temporary kidney failure. A use-of-force report leaves unchecked whether body-camera video exists and lists Smith's injuries as "nonincapacitating." Smith's lawsuit says troopers shared a photo of him after the beating with his eyes swollen shut and the caption: "This is what happens when you run from the police."

Sometimes, videos have been left out of materials turned over to state prosecutors. That was the case last year after a high-speed chase ended near a Franklin Parish cornfield, where body cameras captured troopers beating Black motorist Antonio Harris and hoisting him to his feet by his hair braids.

Afterward, the troopers bragged about it in LOL-peppered group text messages, saying Harris is "gonna have nightmares" and is "still digesting that ass whoopin'."

Capt. John Peters, the regional troop commander, recently retired after acknowledging he approved troopers' use-of-force reports that glossed over Harris' beating without reviewing their body-camera video, disciplinary records show. Peters, who was also among the commanders to sign off on the use-of-force reports in the Ronald Greene case, told investigators that approving such documents without watching the video was his "common practice." He declined to comment to AP.

"The ultimate responsibility is mine," records show Peters wrote in an internal email about the approvals last year. "I failed."

One former trooper, Jacob Brown, was perhaps the agency's most prolifically violent officer in recent years. Records show he tallied 23 uses of force dating to 2015  19 on Black people  and he faces charges in three separate beatings.

Video and police records show he beat Aaron Larry Bowman 18 times with a flashlight after deputies pulled him over for a traffic violation near his Monroe home in May 2019. State police didn't investigate the attack until 536 days later, and only did so after a lawsuit from Bowman, who was left with a broken jaw, ribs and wrist, as well as a gash to his head that required six staples to close.

"I thought I was going to die that night," Bowman told AP.

WARNING: The following video contains graphic scenes of violence and strong language. Can't see the video? Click here.

Brown, who resigned in March, failed to report his use of force and mislabeled his body-camera footage in what investigators described in internal records as "an intentional attempt to hide the video." He did not respond to messages seeking comment.

More examples of uses of force

Another video obtained by the AP involving Brown shows the 2019 arrest of Morgan Blake, who was handcuffed by the side of a Louisiana interstate after troopers found 13 pounds of marijuana in his car.

When Blake repeatedly begged Brown to adjust the cuffs, saying they were irritating an old elbow injury, the trooper refused and slammed Blake twice against a police cruiser and then hurled him to the ground.

Two more troopers jumped on Blake, who was still handcuffed, in the roadside grass. "Stop resisting," one of them yelled. Footage shows Trooper Randall "Colby" Dickerson punching Blake five times and kneeing him in the side. Dickerson, who faces state charges in the case, declined to comment.

After the beating, Brown told another trooper that Blake's right handcuff hadn't been on, that he was resisting and, "Hell, he's trying to get away"  all statements investigators concluded were false.

AP also obtained previously unreleased footage of a state trooper hitting a Hispanic truck driver in 2010 along Interstate 12 in Tangipahoa Parish, north of New Orleans.

The driver, Alejandro Soliz, had been transporting more than 20 kilograms of cocaine and waited on the side of the road as troopers searched his tractor-trailer. Trooper Jason LaMarca can be seen approaching Soliz and, without provocation, delivering a blow to the head that sent the man crumbling to the ground.

"There is absolutely no legitimacy in that type of force," policing expert Scott said after viewing the footage.

LaMarca, reached by phone, referred questions to a police spokesman, who did not respond.

The federal judge who sentenced Soliz on drug charges five months after the arrest was so troubled by the video that he wrote letters to federal prosecutors and Col. Mike Edmonson, then-superintendent of the state police. The use of force had not been documented in any reports, the judge wrote, adding the video also showed "three other troopers laughing at this act."

Edmonson ultimately suspended LaMarca for 12 hours, saying the punishment was tempered by what he considered an "outstanding" seizure of $2 million worth of cocaine.

At a disciplinary hearing, Edmonson talked about wanting to send LaMarca a message that striking Soliz was "not why we wear this badge."

The trooper's suspension was overturned on appeal.

Video journalist Stacey Plaisance in New Orleans contributed to this report.
Hurricane Ida has helped make Bob Dean a household name in south Louisiana  for all the wrong reasons.

The nursing-home and real estate magnate became something of a supervillain after officials with the Louisiana Department of Health, citing horrific conditions, shut down a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse where Dean had evacuated nearly 850 frail residents of his seven nursing homes.

The LDH took the patients away from Dean, placing them in other care facilities around the state, and blasted Dean for allowing conditions to slide so steeply. Seven patients have died, and around 50 have been hospitalized. The scandal led the LDH to permanently revoke licenses for Deans seven nursing homes and to open an investigation into how things went so wrong. Attorney General Jeff Landry has also begun a probe, and a chorus of family members whose loved ones went through the ordeal are calling for criminal charges.

+6 State revokes nursing home licenses for owner who sent 800 residents to warehouse for Ida Louisiana health officials announced Tuesday that they are revoking Bob Dean's seven nursing-home licenses after he evacuated more than 800 nu

Wealthy people who find themselves in such predicaments generally hire PR firms with experience in crisis management. And they often come out to face the music themselves. Dean has mostly stayed in the bunker, giving a couple of short, mystifying phone interviews to reporters. On Tuesday, he said he was hunkered down in Georgia, and complained that he was recovering from oral surgery.

During the crisis itself, he also fired off a barrage of texts to LDH officials, many of them laced with profanity, anger and threats. These cursory communications  some of which suggest a loose grip on reality  provide the only real clues of Deans mindset as things slid out of control.

Taken together, what they reveal is that Dean believes his system for evacuating several nursing homes to a single piece of property he owns  in this case, a warehouse  is a progressive approach that should be a model for others. He insists that hes a victim of overzealous bureaucrats, who intervened without justification to move his nursing home residents to other facilities. And hes furious about it.

Can't see the video above? Click here.

In the texts he sent to LDH officials as they shut down his warehouse, Dean invoked powerful figures who he said would support him, including Gov. John Bel Edwards, U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, U.S. President Joe Biden and a federal marshal who he described as a good friend of mine.

And in an interview with The Advocate | The Times-Picayune, Dean alternated between professing concern for his nursing home patients and brushing off worries about the seven deaths, dozens of hospitalizations and details of nursing home residents living in inhumane conditions that have emerged over the past week.

I usually lose two or three people a day, that pass on, he said in an interview Tuesday. So, four of the five thats passed were hospice patients, which, you know  those are people that are on their way out.

+4 Nurses horrified by nursing home's treatment of evacuees at Louisiana warehouse; 'We tried' Two nurses who worked inside the Tangipahoa Parish warehouse where more than 800 nursing home residents have now been rescued from squalid con

He said he worried that in evacuating the warehouse, state health officials would lose track of his patients medications.

Dean also claimed in the call that former LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee had resigned in disgrace over the fallout from evacuating his warehouse, though Gee in fact quit her post about 20 months earlier. And he suggested, without basis, that the dust up had also led the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to quit.

The governor has promised that the LDH will probe whether Dean failed to keep residents safe and whether he intentionally obstructed efforts to check on their welfare.

If warranted, we will take aggressive legal action against any responsible parties, Edwards said.

Both Edwards and a PAC that supports Kennedy have received substantial campaign donations from Dean, and Dean claimed in one text that Kennedy was calling everyone that is possible to stop you from disturbing my Covid free residents. A spokesman for the PAC, Conservative Louisiana, said Thursday that they had refunded Dean's contributions.

+11 Families never knew nursing home loved ones were suffering in warehouse; it breaks my heart Terry Hicks spent a week trying to contact her husband of 33 years after he told her his nursing home was evacuating ahead of Hurricane Ida.

A Kennedy spokesperson acknowledged that the senators office had made inquiries about Deans patients, but said Dean had contacted Sen. Kennedys office before the public or the senators office was aware of the nursing home conditions.

Following that contact, Sen. Kennedys office was concerned for the nursing home patients and reached out to the Louisiana Department of Health to inquire about the welfare of those patients, the spokesperson added. At no time did the office advocate for Mr. Dean or anyone other than patients and families, which our office has worked to reunite since learning of this matter.

A spokesperson for the governor would not answer Thursday when asked whether he would also return any of Dean's political contributions, saying instead that Edwards "remains 100 percent focused on the response to Hurricane Ida and the COVID pandemic."

The LDH has faulted Dean for more than just his evacuation plans, which left hundreds of vulnerable people in a partially flooded warehouse where nurses said that the air conditioner stopped working, toilets overflowed and trash piled up. A major part of the departments beef is that Dean was hostile to LDH inspectors and, rather than seek help as the crisis worsened, he sought to keep them off the property.

By Aug. 31, an LDH surveyor reported that Dean began aggressively questioning her over the phone, according to his nursing home license revocation letters.

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Bob Dean, at center of nursing-home evacuation scandal, has been prolific political donor The nursing homes owner who left nearly 850 of his patients in an unsanitary warehouse following Hurricane Ida has been a generous supporter o

Mr. Dean started yelling over and over, who sent you? cutting her off from attempts to answer, the letter states. When Surveyor #4 responded one last time that she would not answer that question, Mr. Dean informed her to get off my property! Now!

His texts to the LDH show him saying that he has a federal restraining order barring the state from his property, and later complaining that his rights under the Fourth Amendment, which prohibits illegal searches, had been violated.

LDH also alleged that Dean started a campaign of threats, intimidation and attempts at interfering with LDHs ability to properly assess the site and assure the safety of residents at the site. Those included a series of text messages, phone calls and voicemails  some of which LDH memorialized as exhibits in the letters they sent about revoking Deans licenses.

In a text message exchange beginning Aug. 30, an LDH employee asked Dean for a phone call about your residents in Independence. There are problems.

Dean responded, Hello who the f---- is this before saying he was "on the air wrangler" and that the employee should text him.

+2 Problem with nursing-home evacuation was execution, not plan itself: Louisiana health officials The ghastly problems that festered after residents of seven New Orleans-area nursing homes were evacuated to a warehouse in Tangipahoa Parish 

"What a liar you are," Dean wrote. "Somebody told me you better watch it motherf----r "

The LDH employee responded, asking: "did you intend to send these messages to someone else?" Again, the employee noted their LDH affiliation.

"No I did not you better get off my f---ing ass you bitch do you not realize you're in a conspiracy theory with the federal government," Dean wrote. "Your ass is grass motherf---er "

The next day, Dean began a text message, dear secretary. He then complained about a specific LDH employee who he claimed had conspired with the city of Plaquemine, where Dean sold a nursing home in 2020 amid dozens of complaints.

Please be advised I am well and able and have many hundreds of millions to back me up that belong to me that is in the bank currently, he wrote. Postscript I would like a written copy of her termination it will happen immediately this is being forward to the governor of Louisiana in the presence of United States President Joe Biden.

+14 At remote Louisiana warehouse, nursing home evacuees lay in waste, calling out for help After spending six days in a fetid warehouse with overflowing toilets and piled-up trash, four nursing home residents died and nearly 800 more

An hour later, Dean sent more messages.

"This is a stop order you are now under a federal restraining order respond you were being delivered that immediately call the state police off you're getting so far under you can't get out do you understand respond," he wrote, three times in a row.

So youre in the loop John Kennedys office do United States senator is calling everyone that is possible to stop you from disturbing my COVID free restaurants besides that you would scare all of my employees away do you know the detriment youre called in to your own calls youre supposed to be in health care youve got a vendetta towards me made it unbelievable you will not be good and youre not good, he wrote.

Dean has been a prolific political donor to both the governor and Kennedy despite their differing political party affiliations. Dean contributed $42,500 to Edwards during his second gubernatorial run and $7,500 to the governors brother, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards. Both are Democrats.

"He's not thinking at all about campaign donations and fundraising, except for when it comes to making sure the people of Louisiana have the recovery funds they need," said Christina Stephens, a spokesperson for the governor.

+3 Baton Rouge nursing home owner Bob Dean has drawn regulators' ire on numerous occasions Bob Dean, the Baton Rouge developer whose Louisiana nursing home empire is at the center of controversy after four residents died after being 

Dean also donated $25,000 in June to the Conservative Louisiana political action committee, which supports Kennedy, who is a Republican. Though the PAC supports Kennedy, his spokesperson said that contributions to the Conservative Louisiana PAC do not go to Sen. Kennedy, nor does he direct their distribution.

The PAC initiated a refund of Dean's donations last week, according to its treasurer.

Dean is already facing at least three separate lawsuits from nursing home residents and their families over the nursing home evacuations. Lawsuits have been filed in both Jefferson and Orleans so far, and largely allege that Dean violated both state law and nursing home best practices through the evacuation efforts, which they say have caused both physical and mental scars for the nursing home residents.

By Sept. 2, Dean was sending new texts that accused LDH of violating the Fourth Amendment rights against search and seizure. He also said that the federal government would be involved in pursuing a case against LDH  though LDH has said that theyve been in touch with federal regulators about Dean.

They are physically taking my residents out of the building theyre breaking their arms and legs come on really I need a phone call theyre hurting my people and theyre killing them, Dean wrote.   Also we have pictures of the stealing of their persons without charge and our Covid test. Truly a holocaust.
Rose Brundage, 67, breathed a sigh of relief Thursday. After nine days of insufferable heat, many of them at her mother's house on Marigny Street in New Orleans, she was finally back home at her apartment at St. Martins Manor in the 7th Ward.

Most importantly: There was air conditioning. And when she flipped the switch in her living room, the lights snapped on.

It felt so good getting back. I just sat down and I looked around, and I was thanking God, she said. Its still kind of empty, but people are coming back.

Brundage was one of hundreds of residents who returned to nine senior citizen apartment buildings that city officials reopened Thursday, almost a week after they closed and evacuated 10 buildings finding elderly residents languishing there with kaput air conditioning and no way to leave on their own. The 10th building, Peace Lake Towners, remains closed, but city inspectors deemed the others fit for habitation on Wednesday.

They shuttered the buildings Friday and Saturday after calls to property managers were not returned and initial inspections found residents suffering in excessive temperatures after Hurricane Ida cut power across southeast Louisiana. Five people in the senior buildings died.

That prompted calls from Mayor LaToya Cantrell and other city officials for a single municipal registry for apartment owners and for routine government inspections of the buildings, so that City Hall never again scrambles to reach apartment managers after a disaster and vulnerable residents are never again left alone in the heat and the dark.

+2 Neighbors of New Orleans photographer Laura Bergerol suspect her death is an Ida casualty Laura Bergerol wanted to evacuate the city ahead before Hurricane Ida. And after. But she never managed to get out.

Cantrell first championed such an effort during her time on the City Council, but it stalled amid pushback from the owners of large private properties. She urged council members to revive the effort Wednesday.

This is just an example of how we have a need for real time and accurate information for rental properties throughout the city of New Orleans, Cantrell said. Its sad that we have had to lose people.

But it has also raised the question of why, if city officials didnt have the time to move residents out ahead of a fast-moving storm, they didnt act faster to protect at-risk populations who sheltered at home and suffered from unbearable heat and other problems after the storm had passed. Jefferson Parish, for example, evacuated some privately owned senior apartment buildings two days after Ida, whereas New Orleans waited five to six days to move its elderly to state-run shelters with electricity.

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans, which manages Brundages St. Martins Manor and nine other apartment complexes for seniors and disabled people, says it asked city officials for help before the storm and didnt get it, and that it could not force residents to leave in the absence of a City Hall order to evacuate.

HRI Properties, which manages Flint-Goodridge Apartments, another building where residents were left without resources and where one tenant, Reginald Logan, died last week, says that building is not a care center and that the company does not typically assist residents with evacuations.

Jefferson Parish, while not ordering general evacuations, assisted evacuations at several senior apartment buildings two days after Ida cleared the area.

New Orleans officials say they responded to requests from apartment managers when they received them. They also place the blame for residents plight squarely on apartment managers who lacked resources for their tenants.

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+2 New Orleans area creaking back to commercial life amid daunting cleanup A postal delivery driver was packing boxes into his truck in front of the open door to a Royal Street art gallery on Wednesday, while a Tennes

At issue are apartments for seniors capable of independent living, not nursing homes where residents are dependent on nurses and staff for care. Despite their independence, many residents still have some medical needs or limited mobility, which made for untenable situations once the power was cut, city officials have said.

Cantrell is now pushing, as is City Council member Kristin Gisleson Palmer, for a way to hold private managers accountable, one that will require consistent inspections by her administration if it is passed. Palmer's plan, announced Tuesday, would require building managers to coordinate with City Hall on evacuations and emergency planning, and to maintain a roster of residents during emergencies. Operators would be subject to annual license renewals and inspections, similar to the rental registry concept Cantrell pushed while on the council.

+2 More than 90% of customers in greater New Orleans, Baton Rouge have power restored, Entergy says Entergy has restored power to more than 90% of customers in the greater New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas, company officials said Friday morni

If inspections recently performed at the 10 senior residences are any indication, those examinations could uncover numerous issues. Inspectors found sprinkler systems and elevators that were not functional in some cases, and resident windows that had been painted shut in others, said Peter Bowen, who runs the administration's Office of Business and External Services.

A pump room door was also inaccessible. All are potentially dangerous conditions should emergencies happen in the building.

"All of those items will be subject to administrative adjudication," Bowen said. "The first priority is making sure that people can come home safely, but it is absolutely a priority to hold those building owners accountable."

At Peace Lake Towers, the only building that has yet to reopen despite the restoration of electricity, storm damage has delayed the return of residents, Cantrell spokesperson Beau Tidwell said. The damage requires amended building permits and another state fire marshal inspection before residents may return. A representative from Millennium Management, which oversees the building, is working to relocate tenants, he said.

Residents of the other New Orleans seniors apartment complexes began the journey Thursday from a shelter in north Louisiana to one of several cooling centers where they had been picked up last week. Uber and Lyft offered them free rides from the cooling centers to their homes, city officials said.

Those complexes are St. Martin, St. John Berchman in Gentilly, Delille Inn in New Orleans East, Nazareth Inn 1 & 2 in New Orleans East, Flint-Goodridge Apartments in Milan, Christopher Inn in Faubourg Marigny, Annunciation Inn in Treme and Renaissance Place in Algiers.

About 600 of those residents used the bus service to leave town when it was first provided last week. About 800 people have used the service in all, and about 1,000 New Orleans residents as of Wednesday were being housed in a state-run shelter.

Darnell Smith and Faye Thomas were two of them. Smith missed his chance to get on the outbound bus the first day that Thomas, his wife, and their granddaughter were cleared out of their Renaissance Place apartment. He spent a day or two living in his car before making it to the Lyons Recreation Center on Louisiana Avenue on Monday, where he was shuttled to a Shreveport shelter and rejoined Thomas.

We are probably coming back" Friday, Smith said. The shelter had enough places to sleep and enough food, he added.

But a key question remains: What about our rent? I aint paying no rent for the time I wasnt living there all those days, Smith said.

Brundage, meanwhile, is just glad to be back home, where she can check on her plants and take a walk in the courtyard. Having just moved to St. Martin in July, she has been the new face in the building. Shes looking forward, now that things are getting back to normal, to getting to know her neighbors a bit better.

Im just really happy to see that people are well, and returned, she said.
The first lights came back on in St. John the Baptist Parish this week -- but it will be a long road for the parishs power lines, water mains and schools to be fully restored after Hurricane Ida, Parish President Jaclyn Hotard said at a press conference Thursday.

Hotard spoke on the 11th day after the fast-developing monster storm dealt a hammer blow to the parish, which was hit by high winds from Idas eyewall and surging water from Lake Pontchartrain.

Since then, residents who stayed or returned after the storm have been sweating through hot weather and high humidity without air conditioning. As of Thursday morning, 85% of Entergy customers in the parish remained without power. The utility is beginning to power back critical infrastructure, the Airline Highway commercial corridor and scattered neighborhoods in areas like Garyville and Reserve.

Yet while the vast majority of customers in Orleans, Jefferson and East Baton Rouge parishes have power again, the utility is sticking to its estimate that most power wont be restored in St. John until Sept. 17.

Its never as quick as you would like, Hotard said. They are making some big gains, and theyre continuing to ramp up their efforts here.

Water pressure remains low in the population center of LaPlace. Residents were frustrated in recent days when the meager trickle of water that is available to them stopped without warning.

Hotard said the communitys water is sourced via an unreliable, 15-mile pipeline from wells in Ruddock. On Tuesday, the parish released pictures of workers plunging into water and muck to make emergency repairs to the broken, 24-inch water line.

They risked their lives standing in 10-feet deep areas, and I want to thank them, Hotard said. Sometimes its not possible to send out an instant notice when were going to lose water, because theyre in a hole in 10 feet of water, hoping that they dont die.

Meanwhile, Hotard defended her decision to call for a voluntary evacuation -- instead of a mandatory order like the one in St. Charles Parish -- ahead of the fast-developing Category 4 storm. That decision has come under criticism from some residents, who have struggled with insurance companies for evacuation expenses like hotels.

Insurers say their contracts only require them to pay evacuation aid for parishes with mandatory orders. However, Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon on Tuesday ordered all companies to pay expenses for policyholders who evacuated or deprived use of their residences due to Ida.

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Hotard said she was trying to avoid anyone being trapped in interstate gridlock as the storm approached. She praised Donelons order.

These decisions were life-or-death decisions, she said. As we look back and ask ourselves, did we save lives, did we lose a life in our evacuation process? No we did not. So the decisions we made were the right ones.

Many of the parishs curbs were packed this week with the remains of downed trees and gutted houses. Hotard said vegetative debris removal began Wednesday. Construction and demolition debris are set to be removed beginning Friday. Trash pickup has also restarted in areas where it is safe, Hotard said.

Meanwhile, some residents have secured tarps to damaged roofs to prevent further water damage. But Hotard urged them not to stop there. She said they should also sign up for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Operation Blue Roof program for professionally-installed, heavy-duty, UV-coated temporary roofs.

Separately, Hotard said that residents aged 65 and older who have trouble navigating the Federal Emergency Management Agencys online application for assistance can contact a parish hotline at (985) 536-4955 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A FEMA mobile registration van was scheduled to be at the St. John ARC, 101 Bamboo Road, until 6:00 p.m. Thursday.

Theres still no timeline for the return of the parishs public schools, which underwent months of disruption in the 2020-2021 school year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those schools finally restarted full-time in-person instruction with the new school year on Aug. 9.

Entergy says about 378,000 still without power; Jefferson Parish has most customers affected Entergy executives said Tuesday that there were still about 378,000 customers without power nine days after Hurricane Ida sent the New Orleans

All the schools have been closed since Idas landfall, and they will remain shuttered until further notice. Hotard said several schools sustained damage during the storm, but the district is still assessing its properties.

In a telephone interview, Shawn Wallace, the school boards vice president, said its too soon to give a timeline. He noted that most of the parish, schools included, still lacks power.

We don't have a definite date right now, because we want to give all of our employees, students and their families time, because a lot of people have relocated, Wallace said.
A New Orleans photographer whose body was found inside of her apartment a week after she lost power during Hurricane Ida likely died because of the heat in the wake of the storm, the coroners office confirmed Thursday.

Laura Bergerol, 66, is one of at least 12 people to die after Ida made landfall on Aug. 29 for causes possibly related to the storm, according to a list released by the coroners office. Bergerol is one of 10 who may have succumbed to the extremely hot conditions in the city after the storm knocked the power out, though final causes of death for everyone on the list remained under investigation. The other two possibly died from carbon monoxide poisoning related to running improperly ventilated emergency generators.

+2 Neighbors of New Orleans photographer Laura Bergerol suspect her death is an Ida casualty Laura Bergerol wanted to evacuate the city ahead before Hurricane Ida. And after. But she never managed to get out.

On her Twitter account, where she posted regularly, Bergerol mentioned wanting to evacuate before Ida crashed onto Louisianas coast as a Category 4 storm packing winds of 150 miles per hour. But she rode out the storm at the Bywater Art Lofts on Dauphine Street, which lost power days after Ida, along with most of the area.

Bergerol soon expressed concern about the blazing temperatures and lack of power to cool off on her Twitter feed, and she discussed wanting to rent a hotel room on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

But, she wrote on Twitter, her rental insurance agency wouldnt pay for the room because the evacuation she proposed wasnt mandated by the city.

So angry! Bergerol said, tagging the insurer USAA. The companys verified Twitter account wrote back asking if she had filed a claim while also expressing understanding for her disappointment.

Neighbors regularly checked on Bergerol, who  besides migraines  dealt with a blood clotting disorder and bad knees. They gave her battery-powered fans and charger packs for her cellphone so she could stay in touch.

But the units at the Bywater Art Lofts still got extremely hot, including the one where Bergerol spent as much of the aftermath as she could bear, her neighbors said.

Her next-door neighbor last saw her on Sept. 3, when building residents gathered in a common area powered by a generator to watch a movie and enjoy some cool air. Bergerol stayed for a little but retreated into her apartment, complaining that a migraine had come on.

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By Sunday, two days later, she had stopped responding to texts and didnt answer a knock on the door from a neighbor offering another battery-powered fan, fellow residents said.

Bergerols next-door neighbor then forced her door open to check on her and found her lying dead on the floor atop some laundry.

Bergerols death shocked the tight-knit community at the Bywater Art Lofts. They said she was sharing her small supply of snacks and wine with neighbors who worried that they hadnt gotten enough provisions ahead of Ida.

The last time I saw her, she was fine  we were hot and exhausted from no power, but she seemed fine, said Josh Hailey, the neighbor who found her. Im still processing what happened.

Bergerol moved to New Orleans from California after Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She arrived as an animal shelter volunteer but supported herself as a professional photographer.

After a catastrophic earthquake in Haiti in 2010, Bergerol co-created an exhibit named Images Without Borders, which raised money for the group Doctors Without Borders, who were providing relief efforts at the time.

That was the person she was, neighbor Bobbi Studstill said. She was very kind and generous.

Two days after Bergerol's death, Louisiana's insurance commissioner, Jim Donelon, ordered companies to cover hotel and meal expenses for people who evacuated their parishes even when it wasn't mandatory. Donelon said USAA, Allstate and PURE Insurance Company had agreed to cover such expenses before his directive, though State Farm had not.
Hurricane forecasters on Thursday morning were tracking four tropical disturbances, including Hurricane Larry, Tropical Depression Mindy and a new system heading for the Gulf of Mexico.

Update: Tropical depression likely to form in Gulf on Sunday or Monday

The Gulf disturbance is expected to head to mainland Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Here's what to know about the tropics as of 10 a.m. Thursday.

Disturbance heading for Gulf of Mexico

Forecasters are tracking a disturbance that's expected to head into the Gulf of Mexico. It has a 30% chance of developing into at least a tropical depression within five days.

As of 7 a.m., the disturbance was over northeastern Honduras and the western Caribbean and is expected to emerge over the southern Bay of Campeche on Saturday.

Environmental conditions are expected to be favorable for "some gradual development" of the system before it moves over mainland Mexico early next week.

The shaded area on the graphic is where a storm could develop and is not a track. The National Hurricane Center releases a track when a tropical depression forms or is about to form.

Tropical Depression Mindy reaches Atlantic

Tropical Storm Mindy formed Wednesday and made landfall on the Florida panhandle.

As of 10 a.m., Mindy had weakened to a tropical depression. The center of the storm had moved off Georgia's coast and is now over the Atlantic about 45 miles southeast of Savannah, Georgia.

The storm is moving northeast at 21 mph and dumping heavy rain across portions of Georgia and South Carolina.

It has winds of 35 mph. Gradual weakening is expected Friday and Mindy is expected become a remnant low by Saturday.

Read the full advisory.

Hurricane Larry weakens in Atlantic

Hurricane Larry is expected to bring tropical storm conditions to Bermuda later Thursday, forecasters said in their morning advisory.

A hurricane watch is in effect for southeast Newfoundland. Tropical storm watches and warnings are in effect for Bermuda and parts of Newfoundland.

As of 10 a.m., Hurricane Larry was about 190 miles east of Bermuda and is moving northwest at 16 mph.

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On the forecast track, the center of Larry should pass east of Bermuda Thursday and move near or over southeastern Newfoundland Friday night or early Saturday morning.

Larry has weakened and now has winds of 90 mph, making it a Category 1 hurricane. Gradual weakening is expected during the next several days, but Larry is expected to remain a hurricane.

Swells generated by Larry continue to affect the U.S. East Coast, the Lesser Antilles, the Greater Antilles, the Bahamas and Bermuda. These swells are likely to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions.

Read the full advisory.

New disturbance in Atlantic

A strong tropical wave is expected to emerge off the west coast of Africa on Saturday, forecasters said.

It's expected to move northwest over the far eastern Atlantic near the Cabo Verde Islands. Environmental conditions are favorable for a tropical depression to form early next week, forecasters said.

It has a 50% chance of developing into tropical depression within five days. It's too soon to tell where it could go.

Read the full advisory.

Next available name

The next available names are Nicholas, Odette and Peter.

Systems are named when they strengthen into tropical storms. Storms Ana, Bill, Claudette, Danny, Elsa, Fred, Grace, Henri, Ida, Julian, Kate, Larry and Mindy formed earlier this season. Elsa, Grace, Ida and Larry strengthened into hurricanes.

Last year, there were so many storms that forecasters ran out of names and had to use the Greek alphabet. It's only the second time in recorded history that the Greek names had been used.

Things have changed for this season. If needed, forecasters will use a list of supplemental storm names instead of the Greek names.

Storm categories

The categories, in order of increasing strength, are tropical depression, tropical storm and hurricane (categories 1 through 5).

On the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, the wind categories are:

Tropical storm: 39 to 73 mph

Category 1 hurricane: 74 to 95 mph

Category 2 hurricane: 96 to 110 mph

Category 3 hurricane (major hurricane): 111 to 129 mph

Category 4 hurricane: 130-156 mph

Category 5 hurricane: 157 mph and higher

Don't miss a storm update this hurricane season. Sign up for breaking newsletters. Follow our Hurricane Center Facebook page.
Twelve more deaths in New Orleans were blamed by the Louisiana Department of Health on Hurricane Ida. Ten of the victims were older than 64 and died of excessive heat during the power outage.

UPDATE: Two more Hurricane Ida-related deaths confirmed in Louisiana, bringing total to 28

That brings the Aug. 29 storm's Louisiana death toll to 26. Here they are, listed by the date the death was confirmed by the coroner and with the parish where the coroner is based, not necessarily where the death occurred:

Sept. 8 - Man, 64, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans Parish

Sept. 8 - Woman, 74, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 79, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 65, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 73, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 68, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 64, heat and potential lack of oxygen during outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Woman, 70, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Woman, 65, excessive heat during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 24, carbon monoxide poisoning, Orleans

Sept. 8 - Man, 44, carbon monoxide poisoning, Orleans

Sept. 7 - Man, 71, lack of oxygen during outage, St. Tammany

Sept. 7 - Man, 68, fell from roof while making repairs, St. Tammany

Sept. 4 - Man, 74, heat and lack of oxygen during power outage, Orleans

Sept. 4 - Man, 84, nursing home evacuee, Tangipahoa

Sept. 3 - Man, 61, nursing home evacuee, Jefferson

Sept. 3 - Man, 59, carbon monoxide poisoning, St. John the Baptist

Sept. 2 - Woman, 54, carbon monoxide poisoning, Jefferson

Sept. 2 - Woman, 23, carbon monoxide poisoning, Jefferson

Sept. 2 - Male, 17, carbon monoxide poisoning, Jefferson

Sept. 2 - Woman, 65, drowning, Jefferson

Sept. 1 - Man, 77, nursing home evacuee, Orleans

Sept. 1 - Man, 52, nursing home evacuee, Terrebonne

Sept. 1 - Woman, 59, nursing home evacuee, Jefferson

Aug. 30 - Man, 25, drowned in vehicle, Orleans

Aug. 29 - Man, 60, tree fell on house, Ascension

The nursing home evacuees had been moved before the storm from their regular residences to a warehouse in Independence. The causes of their deaths have not been determined, but the Health Department said they were storm-related.

Plans to evacuate nursing homes to warehouse, where 7 have since died, were OK'd by state When news broke that nearly 850 frail nursing-home patients were crammed into a warehouse in a remote corner of Louisiana during Hurricane Ida

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Officials haven't yet identified the latest 11 victims. But photographer Laura Bergerol's age and gender match one of the Sept. 8 victims of an excessive heat.

+2 Neighbors of New Orleans photographer Laura Bergerol suspect her death is an Ida casualty Laura Bergerol wanted to evacuate the city ahead before Hurricane Ida. And after. But she never managed to get out.

The storm's death toll had stood at 15 Tuesday night, Health Department spokesman Kevin Litten said.

"In an effort to ensure the most accurate reporting of deaths that are attributable to Hurricane Ida, the Louisiana Department of Health will only report a death after it has been confirmed as storm-related by the parish coroner," the state agency said.

Officials have said seven people died after being evacuated to the Independence warehouse from nursing homes owned by Bob Dean. The Health Department has listed only five, however.

This story has been updated with the most recent number of reported deaths.
A political action committee supporting U.S. Sen. John Kennedy has refunded a $25,000 donation from nursing home magnate Bob Dean after Dean came under fire for evacuating more than 800 of his nursing home residents to a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse for Hurricane Ida, where state officials say they were living in inhumane conditions.

The scandal has prompted both Gov. John Bel Edwards and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry to open investigations into what went wrong. The state has revoked Dean's seven nursing home licenses, shut down the nursing homes and terminated his Medicaid provider agreements.

But before Dean became known for the nursing home evacuation, he was a prolific donor across both sides of the political aisle.

He donated $25,000 in June to the Conservative Louisiana political action committee, which supports Kennedy, who is a Republican.

The PAC initiated a refund of Dean's donations last week, according to its treasurer, Charlie Spies.

Though the PAC supports Kennedy, his spokesperson said that contributions to the Conservative Louisiana PAC do not go to Sen. Kennedy, nor does he direct their distribution.

Dean claimed in one text to Louisiana Department of Health officials that Kennedy was calling everyone that is possible to stop you from disturbing my Covid free residents. A Kennedy spokesperson acknowledged that the senators office had made inquiries about Deans patients, but said Dean had contacted Sen. Kennedys office before the public or the senators office was aware of the nursing home conditions.

+6 State revokes nursing home licenses for owner who sent 800 residents to warehouse for Ida Louisiana health officials announced Tuesday that they are revoking Bob Dean's seven nursing-home licenses after he evacuated more than 800 nu

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Following that contact, Sen. Kennedys office was concerned for the nursing home patients and reached out to the Louisiana Department of Health to inquire about the welfare of those patients, the spokesperson added. At no time did the office advocate for Mr. Dean or anyone other than patients and families, which our office has worked to reunite since learning of this matter.

Dean had previously donated $5,000 to Kennedy in 1999.

He has also supported Louisiana's governor and the governor's brother, both Democrats. Dean also touted connections to the governor when LDH inspectors visited the warehouse before shutting it down and evacuating the 800-plus residents staying there.

Dean contributed $42,500 to John Bel Edwards during his second gubernatorial run and $7,500 to the governors brother, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards.

A spokesperson for the governor would not answer Thursday when asked whether he would also return any of Dean's political contributions, saying instead that Edwards "remains 100 percent focused on the response to Hurricane Ida and the COVID pandemic."

"He's not thinking at all about campaign donations and fundraising, except for when it comes to making sure the people of Louisiana have the recovery funds they need," said Christina Stephens, a spokesperson for the governor.

Bob Dean, at center of nursing-home evacuation scandal, has been prolific political donor The nursing homes owner who left nearly 850 of his patients in an unsanitary warehouse following Hurricane Ida has been a generous supporter o

In total, Dean has contributed at least $289,000 to political candidates since 1994 through his own name and through dozens of companies that he owns, according to an analysis from the Louisiana Illuminator. He made the majority of those donations between 1999 to 2007. From 2008 to 2018, state records do not show him making any donations, the news organization reported.

He started back up again in 2019, when he donated to Edwards.
Norman, OK (73070)

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Sunshine and clouds mixed. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High around 90F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

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Norman, OK (73070)

Today

Partly cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 90F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear. Low 67F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
On Sept. 8, UPMC physicians shared findings from ongoing COVID-19 research trials. Recent research confirms that monoclonal antibodies are an effective treatment for COVID-19.

During the press conference on Wednesday, Dr. Derek Angus, M.D., MPH, and UPMC Chief Innovation Officer, shared an overview of treatment methods and the current status of COVID-19 hospital care.

Dr. Angus explained the necessity to act fast against COVID-19, which means that both doctors and patients need immediate solutions. The response of UPMC physicians has proven successful, with "odds of death falling by 5% every month," said Dr. Angus.

Dr. Angus described the following methods as effective treatments for COVID-19:

Inexpensive steroids help sickest patients and reduce odds of death

Blood thinners help moderately ill patients

Monoclonal antibodies decrease the risk of hospitalization and death

A more detailed explanation of monoclonal antibodies specified that they are most effective when provided within a week of infection, and only require a one-time use. UPMC has treated 5,700 patients with monoclonal antibodies since the start of the pandemic; 2,300 were treated within the past month alone.

"70 percent of patients who would have been hospitalized are now avoiding hospitalization -- if they get monoclonal antibodies," concluded Dr. Angus.

Dr. Rachel Sackrowitz, M.D and MBA, also shared statistics of COVID-19 patients, with a particular emphasis upon vaccination. Dr. Sackrowitz shared the following statistics as a comparison of hospital admittance rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated patients.

Pull Quote "If you are not vaccinated, your risk of being hospitalized with COVID-19 is 29 times higher than the risk of someone who is vaccinated," described Dr. Sackrowitz. "Over the past past several weeks, we have seen as much as 19 times more unvaccinated patients aged 50 or younger admitted to UPMC hospitals, compared to vaccinated patients."

A comprehensive overview of research on monoclonal antibodies is provided below.

Monoclonal antibodiesan outpatient treatment that must be given soon after COVID-19 diagnosissignificantly decrease hospitalization and death from the disease. Real-world data from UPMC patients now show that two antibody combination treatmentsbamlanivimab-etesevimab and casirivimab-imdevimabwere safe and appeared to be equally effective.

These interim results come from UPMCs innovative OPTIMISE-C19 study, a randomized, adaptive trial designed to simultaneously expand access to monoclonal antibodies and compare the effectiveness of different treatments for outpatients with COVID-19.

The next phase of the trial, which already is in progress, will evaluate how well the currently authorized treatments work against coronavirus variants, including Delta, to prevent hospitalization and death.

UPMC and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine physician-scientists published the findings in medRxiv, a preprint journal, and announced the results today ahead of peer-reviewed publication.

Before we launched OPTIMISE-C19, only a small percentage of eligible patients were receiving monoclonal antibody treatment, said lead author Erin McCreary, Pharm.D., UPMC infectious diseases pharmacist and Pitt clinical assistant professor of medicine.

Now, were able to offer monoclonal antibodies in the context of a clinical trial at every single one of our available treatment sitesresulting in a 7.5-fold increase in the number of eligible patients receiving this treatment. That level of outreach and access is virtually unprecedented, allowing us to build a foundation to roll-out future treatments quickly and safely within our learning health system.

Monoclonal antibodies are potent versions of the natural defense that our bodies build to fight off an infection. By giving monoclonal antibodies to newly infected people, they can immediately start neutralizing and eliminating the virus, preventing it from infecting cells and causing damage. Previous research by UPMC and others found that monoclonal antibodies significantly reduce the risk of hospitalization and death when given soon after infection.

The whole world is in a race to tame the virus that causes COVID-19, said study co-author Derek Angus, M.D., M.P.H., UPMCs chief innovation officer and distinguished professor and chair of Pitts Department of Critical Care Medicine.

If we get COVID-19, monoclonal antibodies are currently our best bet to keep ourselves and our loved ones alive and out of the hospital. In our quest for a cure, weve had the good fortune to have multiple options available, leaving doctors with the question: Which one is best for my patient? Right now, the answer is that the best option is the one you can give your patient fastest.

In February 2021, UPMC partnered with the White House COVID-19 Response Team to expand clinical use of monoclonal antibodies and evaluate their comparative effectiveness.

The OPTIMISE-C19 trial randomizes the allocation of the monoclonal antibody treatments that were granted emergency use authorization (EUA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to patients who qualify for them. All patients in the trial receive monoclonal antibody treatment, are followed for 28 days and their outcomes compared.

UPMC randomized either Eli Lilly or Regenerons combination monoclonal antibody treatment to 1,935 patients from March 10 to June 25, 2021. The results were pulled for analysis after the federal government stopped distributing Lillys monoclonal antibody treatment due to lower laboratory effectiveness against the Gamma and Beta variants of the virus.

The first results of OPTIMISE-C19 show that before Delta became the predominant strain in the U.S., both Lilly and Regenerons combination monoclonal antibody treatments performed well in keeping patients with COVID-19 alive and out of the hospital in a geographic region of Alpha variant predominance. Safety also was similar, with very few serious complications due to the treatment among UPMC patients.

Thats the beauty of an adaptive learning health system trial, said senior author and principal investigator David Huang, M.D., M.P.H., an intensivist at UPMC and professor of critical care medicine, emergency medicine, and clinical and translational science at Pitt.

As new treatments are authorized, we can immediately begin offering them to patients and collect randomized data to inform future treatment protocols. We can then compare outcomes as the virus evolves and new variants emerge.

Delta is now the predominant strain of COVID-19 in the communities UPMC serves. UPMC offers monoclonal antibodies to people who have tested positive for COVID-19, have had symptoms for 10 days or less and meet other FDA eligibility criteria. Certain people who have been exposed to COVID-19 also can receive monoclonal antibodies as a preventive treatment, to keep them from contracting the virus.
Over the past holiday weekend, one social media user was able to capture some great photos while flying from Hershey to the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon.

The photos were taken by 'u/celestialfeeling' and shared the photos with the tag "Scenic Pennsylvania" on the platform reddit.

Check out the post below to enjoy the photos!

Last summer, a YouTuber by the name of Joe Hainey was also able to take some awesome video of "flying down the Grand Canyon of PA in a Diamon DA40" taking off from the airport in Wellsboro, Pa.

Check out the his YouTube video and channel below!
Williamsport, Pa.  Gerald Edward Jordan, 60, of Williamsport was charged with first-degree felony failure to register with PSP and first-degree failure to verify address after it was discovered he had moved and did not notify authorities.

On Aug. 10, Jordan allegedly told officers he needed to complete a change of address form. According to the report, Jordan told officers he moved from 324 Park Avenue apartment 4 to apartment 2 on July 29, specifically when he went on probation.

Trooper Sara Barrett of Montoursville PSP checked with the Lycoming County Adult Probation Department, who said Jordan started probation on June 30 and had contact with him on July 8 at apartment 2.

On Aug. 12, Barrett said she contacted the owner of the apartments, who said Jordan moved from apartment 4 to apartment 2 on April 1 of 2021.

In 2009, Jordan pled guilty to indecent assault of a person less than 13 years of age and endangering the welfare of children.

Docket sheet
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Child advocacy centers struggling with funding cuts

Photo by BRIAN KOELLER Taking part in a legislative visit to the Henry County Childrens Advocacy Center (CAC) in Napoleon were (from left) team members Katie Nelson of the Henry County Prosecutors office, Napoleon Police Lt. Edward Legg, CAC Interim Director Roberta Mack, Ohio Sen. Robert McColley, Ohio Network of Childrens Advocacy Centers (ONCAC) Executive Director Brad Feldman, ONCAC Accreditation Specialist Kellie Cripe and HCCAC team member Jeannie Detmer. Graphic courtesy of National Network to End Domestic Violence This graphic shows the balance levels dropping since 2017 in the federal Crime Victims Fund.

While funds are drying up for centers that advocate for child victims, the case numbers keep increasing for domestic violence and serious injury incidences.

Domestic dispute calls were up about 47%, just in the City of Napoleon, said Henry County Child Advocacy Center (CAC) Interim Director Roberta Mack during a recent meeting with CAC team members, Ohio Sen. Robert McColley, R-Napoleon, and representatives of Ohio Network of Childrens Advocacy Centers (ONCAC).

Then when I looked at other numbers it was just huge, she added.

Those increases were from 2019 to 2020.

We see a broader spectrum of things from our end, said Lt. Edward Legg of the Napoleon Police Department. Of course, we had COVID, but we also had that increase in substance abuse and increase in alcohol use, which all ties into what were talking about here.

While the case numbers for domestic disputes have increased, the funding through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) has been reduced.

We lost $2.6 million just last year to give to the CACs around Ohio due to the cuts through VOCA, said Brad Feldman, executive director of ONCAC.

Theyve been cut almost 70% over the last three years, he added. Its just been devastating.

There is a newer version of the bill, but funding through it will not be made available in the immediate future, and the levels at which it will return is not yet known. Feldman said the account fund needs to be replenished.

According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), politics hasnt played a role in the cuts, but rather a change in strategy for federal prosecutors.

NNEDV says the Department of Justice is relying more on deferred and non-prosecution agreements, which are technically not required to be paid into the VOCA fund. The group says changing that, which the new bill seems to do, would stabilize the fund and fend off future cuts.

Feldman also pointed out Ohio is one of only seven states in the country to not fund CACs with a line item in the state budget. The group tried to get it added during the latest state budget, but was unsuccessful.

Well be back at it next time, he said.

Mack said funding from VOCA in the past completely paid for one advocates position, including benefits.

Now shes being supported by general funds, Mack said. We didnt want to lose that position.

Cutting that position would have meant only one full-time advocate being available in Henry County. Mack said the CAC really needs two, and could use a couple of part-time advocates as well.

Our goal is to try to make sure we have the funding to help support your efforts, Feldman said.

The decrease in funding, as well as small staff, also makes it difficult for the Henry County CAC to continue to go into schools and provide educational programs on teen issues such as sexting.

Mack said the trainings are free to the schools, and she doesnt want to start charging for them.

Weve just never charged the schools to come in and educate the kids, Mack said.

Feldman said ONCAC recently applied for a $3 million grant he said would help CACs with their educational programs if it is approved.

He also said the organization is asking for a one-time infusion of cash from the state through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal funds.

McColley said he would be willing to support such an effort, as long as it is understood its a one-time only measure. He also encouraged ONCAC to continue to lobby for the line item in the state budget.

Mack said the Henry County CAC did not have to eliminate any staff during COVID, and was still able to service 22 children in 2020 despite the pandemic restrictions.

Unfortunately, nearly everyone agreed the full impact of the last year may not be felt for another four or five years.
Inmate who didn't return to jail after doctor's appointment is back in custody
Gloria Stickley stands in front of a historic caboose the Strasburg Museum was able to repair after receiving a $2,500 grant in 2019.
Sheldon Public Library Board of Trustees member Madelyn Mullally looks at the box for the Code a pillar, which is a new STEAM kit available for children ages 5-and-under. The five kits are available for checkout at the Sheldon Public Library.
18th Street Brewery is serving artisan cocktails at a new speakeasy-inspired lounge in Gary's lakefront Miller neighborhood.

The acclaimed craft brewery, which operates a distillery, Sour Note Brewery and breweries in Hammond, Gary and Indianapolis, opened The Other Room in "the other room" of its brewpub at 5725 Miller Ave. in Gary, by Chicago-based artist Matthew Hoffman's "You Are Beautiful" billboard welcoming visitors to Miller Beach.

"The inspiration of the Other Room is to provide a speakeasy-style aesthetic as an alternative to the more classic brewpub experience we offer in our main bar," 18th Street Brewery Miller Brewpub Manager Shane Serafin' said. "The furniture and styling is meant to provide comfort in a lounge atmosphere. The main focus of our offerings is classic cocktails utilizing quality spirits."

The lounge is located in the large room facing Lake Street. It originally served as a family dining room where the brewery often hosted sip-and-draw and other arts events. It was then leased out to Anna's Kombucha Cafe, whose owner got her start as a brewer at 18th Street.

It was then a 65-seat cafe serving coffee, kombucha and breakfast food but Anna's closed its retail operation during the pandemic though it continues to sell kombucha around Northwest Indiana.
Prospective members can be as young as high school age. Additionally, coronavirus vaccinations will be required for all members.

A little more than two weeks later, the Northwest Indiana Symphony Youth Orchestra will hold its auditions. Also held at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts, the Orchestra tryouts will be held Sept. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Northwest Indiana Symphony Youth Orchestra conductor Philip Bauman is seeking aspiring members as young as eighth grade up to 22 years old. Prospects should be able to show proficiency in their instrument as well as provide a recommendation from his or her music teacher or past or current band instructor.

Bauman also said ideal candidates will also be eager to evolve as musicians.

We look for people who are at the right place for what their musical abilities are as it relates to the general abilities of the group, he said. There may be times where a student comes in and could be a little stronger in some areas, but they can grow considerably and go from there  were looking for that person that loves music and is intrigued by it and wants to learn more.

The youth orchestra also asks candidates to explain, in writing, why he or she should be chosen as a member of the ensemble.
CROWN POINT  A man arrested last week on an Illinois parole violation was charged Wednesday in the beating death of his neighbor at a Gary mobile home park.

Orlando Burgos, 30, is accused of punching and pistol-whipping Sheri Richardson, 54, on Aug. 19 outside her residence at the Colfax Mobile Homes park in the area of West 36th Avenue and Colfax Street.

One witness told police Burgos also was seen jumping on Richardson's head twice with both of his feet, Lake Criminal Court records state.

Burgos, who was taken to the Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill, Illinois, after his arrest Sept. 2, was incarcerated for an armed robbery in Cook County until April, Illinois Department of Corrections records show. His expected release date was in late April.

Burgos has not yet entered pleas in Lake Criminal Court to charges of murder and robbery resulting in serious bodily injury. After he completes his sentence in Illinois, he was expected to be returned to Lake County to face his new charges.

In an interview with police last week, Burgos admitted he knew Richardson and made disparaging comments about her, but he denied hitting Richardson, according to court records.
They just want to be back in school and with their friends, she said of both the pandemic and Wednesday mornings events.

A group of parents and siblings of Lake Central students gathered earlier Wednesday on the other side of the fence separating the school from local businesses. These family members said their students texted them when the lockdown started.

All of their students, they said, knew the lockdown was not a drill.

One young woman said her sister is a freshman and texted her around 10 a.m. to tell her what was going on. But she was disappointed that the school didnt communicate anything with the families until hours later.

She said shed even like to see metal detectors or something to help protect against situations such as these.

Kids come to school to learn, she said, not to wonder Am I going to go home today?

The other parents echoed the disappointment that it took so long to get information from the school.
VALPARAISO  The city announced that after this weekend's Popcorn Fest, it will kick off an improvement project on 4 miles of its most heavily traveled roadways.

The project will target Calumet Avenue from Morgan Boulevard to Bullseye Lake Road; Roosevelt Road from LaPorte Avenue to Calumet Avenue; and Morgan Boulevard from Lincolnway to Calumet Avenue, the city said.

Work will include structural resurfacing aimed at extending the life of the roadway, pavement markings, curb repairs, and sidewalk repairs that will improve accessibility for the disabled.

Much of the work will take place during overnight hours and most of it should be done by Thanksgiving, the city said.

"This multi-mile project is an ambitious one that will improve travel for many and improve these main arteries for years to come, Valparaiso Mayor Matt Murphy said.

The project amounts to a $2.6 million investment in the city, supported by a $1 million in Community Crossing grant money, the city said.

Murphy said the city is also undertaking neighborhood road, alley and sidewalk improvements. That list includes:

 Ade Avenue (Riley Road to cul-de-sac).
VALPARAISO The Porter County Community Foundation was the winning bidder of five hogs and one steer at this year's Porter County Fair 4-H Livestock Auction.

The resulting benefit is more than 1,500 pounds of meat was donated to the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana for distribution to Porter County food pantries. Ultimately, 2,400 meals will be provided to those in need.

Bidding for the Foundation was President and CEO, Bill Higbie, assisted by Foundation Board Member, Cheri Birky.

"The Foundation appreciates the value of this type of community investment," Higbie said. "Not only does our participation in the auction benefit the 4-H kids, but a significant number of food-insecure families will now have access to high-quality meat," Higbie added.

Cheri Birky worked with Craig Sims of Sims Meats to arrange the processing. Sims contributed to the project by processing two hogs free of charge.

"Craig is really supportive of the Community Foundation's participation in the livestock auction. We greatly appreciate his generosity," Birky said.
The investigation will include interviews and meetings with police, government officials, residents and advocates to determine whether reforms are needed. It will also review use of force and how the department handles officer complaints. Joliet, a community of roughly 150,000, is about 45 miles outside Chicago.

The probe is the first of its kind under a new Illinois law that gives the attorney general's office more authority to investigate and take civil action when looking at patterns or practices of unconstitutional or unlawful policing.

After Lurry's death, a police sergeant was charged with misconduct for releasing video showing another officer slapping Lurry and pinching his nose. Sgt. Javier Esqueda, who was stripped of his badge and gun and transferred to desk duty, said he released the video because he believed the department was trying to cover up the arrest. Esqueda has been praised as a whistleblower by advocacy groups.

Raoul said he met with members of Lurry's family to offer condolences and discuss limitations of the investigation.

Lurry's widow, Nicole, has filed a separate lawsuit against the city and police officers alleging "willful and wanton acts and reckless conduct" leading to his death.

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Steward, who has also been a patron of Frankfort Bowl, called the lanes a multigenerational gathering place for Old Town Frankfort. It's a right of passage. The longer youve lived here, the more likely you are to have an experience at Frankfort Bowl.

Stanevicius doesnt even have the longest relationship with Frankfort Bowl in her own family. Her mother, Gloria Dean, remembers meeting friends there after her shifts at a nearby restaurant in the 1950s. And during a recent talk with her mother, Stanevicius learned that her uncle, Chuck Marx, used to work at the bowl as a pinsetter.

Smith and her husband bought Frankfort Bowl in 2009, partly to help pay for her daughters college. At the time, the bowling alley had been closed for 5 years but Smiths husband knew the owners, and it seemed like a good opportunity. We kinda jumped in not knowing anything about it, and it's been almost 12 years now.

Smith now runs the alley with help from her son. She tends bar, maintains the lanes and works to keep the original pin-setting machine, an AMF 82-30 from 1952. It's a lot of work, and Ive learned to keep up a lot on the machines, Smith said. You fix it, keep it going. Everything is metal so you can repair things back to their original form.
Michael Constantine, an Emmy-winning character actor known as the genially dyspeptic school principal on the popular TV series Room 222 and, 30 years later, as the genially dyspeptic patriarch in the hit film My Big Fat Greek Wedding, died on Aug. 31 at his home in Reading, Pa. He was 94.

His agent, Julia Buchwald, confirmed the death.

Mr. Constantine, who began his career on the Broadway stage, was endowed with fierce eyebrows, a personal warmth that belied his perennial hangdog look, and the command of a Babel of foreign accents. Of Greek extraction, he was routinely cast by Hollywood to portray a welter of ethnicities.

He played several Jewish characters, winning an Emmy in 1970 for the role of Seymour Kaufman, who presided with grumpy humanity over a fictional Los Angeles school on Room 222. Broadcast on ABC from 1969 to 1974, the show centered on an idealistic Black history teacher, played by Lloyd Haynes, who contended with a variety of issues, social and otherwise, at the racially diverse Walt Whitman High School.

He also played Italians, on shows including The Untouchables and Kojak; Russians, as in the 1980s series Airwolf; a Roma elder, in the 1996 horror film Thinner, adapted from a Stephen King novel; and, on occasion, even a Greek or two.
Cascading challenges for the Taliban

A day after the Taliban named an acting cabinet to lead Afghanistan, the dizzying challenges that accompanied the groups victory were coming into sharp relief, including growing dissent, a humanitarian crisis and foreign policy woes.

Although the Talibans announcement of the new leadership was meant to unify the movement and formalize the functioning of the government, the lack of women and the presence of former leaders from the groups repressive 1990s regime have raised alarms in the West that earlier promises of inclusivity might prove empty.

The Taliban face longstanding tensions on the Afghan-Pakistani border, where some Afghan refugees have fled and where the Pakistani Army has continued to shell suspected militant hide-outs in recent days, according to Taliban and Pakistan officials.

Crackdown: Demonstrators have been subjected to abuse in overcrowded jails. Several Afghan journalists said they were arrested while covering a protest yesterday and beaten in custody. Despite Taliban warnings that protests now had to be approved in advance, demonstrators were back on the streets.
Register now for the live panel on Sept. 30 at 1 p.m. Eastern.

Todays middle and high school students were born after Sept. 11, 2001, yet they grew up in a world shaped by the attacks and their aftermath. What does Sept. 11 mean to the post-9/11 generation?

With New York Times journalists and student voices, we will discuss this question at our special interactive panel on Sept. 30. The panel will feature Yousur Al-Hlou and Biz Herman, who examined how Sept. 11 has been taught in classrooms around the world, and Kiana Hayeri, who photographed young Afghans as they experienced the recent withdrawal of U.S. troops from their country. The panel will also explore what the legacy of Sept. 11 means to young people today  including those in the audience, who are encouraged to submit video questions and reflections that may be played during the panel.

Prepare for the Panel

Before the panel, teachers and students should use the following resources to prepare:

A Student Opinion question that asks students to reflect on what the Sept. 11 attacks and their aftermath mean to them.

A Lesson of the Day based on Kiana Hayeris photo essay documenting the end of the U.S. occupation of Afghanistan through the eyes of young Afghans.

A Lesson of the Day about how students around the world have been taught about the Sept. 11 attacks, based on the work of the panelists Yousur Al-Hlou and Biz Herman.

We also offer 10 teaching ideas about the Sept. 11 attacks and a lesson on the causes and consequences of the U.S. war in Afghanistan.

Submit Student Videos

We encourage students to submit short videos that we may feature during the live panel. Students can submit one or both of two types of videos:

Questions for the panelists based on their featured pieces (see above).

Responses to any of the questions in our Student Opinion prompt: 9/11 Happened Before You Were Born. What Does It Mean to You?

Each video should be no longer than 30 seconds. Submit all videos through this form by Sept. 23 at 11:59 p.m. Pacific time.
A city in Colorado will pay a $3 million settlement to a 74-year-old woman with dementia whom police officers threw to the ground last year and handcuffed after she was suspected of shoplifting.

Officials in the city of Loveland agreed to the settlement in connection with a lawsuit filed on behalf of the woman, Karen Garner, in April in U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado against the city and the officers who arrested her, according to Ms. Garners lawyer, Sarah Schielke, and the officials in Loveland.

In police body camera footage of the episode that Ms. Garners lawyer released this spring, an officer grabbed Ms. Garner and flung her to the ground while she was walking home from a nearby Walmart, where employees had called the police because they said she walked out without paying for $13.88 worth of items.
President Biden is expected on Thursday to impose new vaccination mandates as part of a broad plan to put pressure on private businesses, federal agencies and schools to enact stricter vaccination and testing policies as the Delta variant continues its spread across the United States.

The spread of the highly infectious variant has pushed the countrys daily average caseload over 150,000 for the first time since late January, overwhelming hospitals in hard-hit areas and killing roughly 1,500 people a day.

Mr. Biden, who was briefed by his team of coronavirus advisers on Wednesday afternoon, is set to deliver a speech at 5 p.m. Eastern that will address about six areas where his administration can encourage  or, at this point, push  more eligible Americans to receive vaccines, according to the White House.

Officials offered few specifics, stressing that the plan was still coming together. But two officials familiar with the plan said that it would include new federal requirements for vaccination, and that its underlying message would be that the only way to return to some sense of normalcy was to get as many people vaccinated as possible.
The White House pushed out several prominent Trump administration appointees from their posts on the advisory boards of U.S. military service academies, administration officials said on Wednesday.

The Biden administration was seeking to ensure that nominees and board members were qualified to serve on them and aligned with the presidents values, Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, said at a White House briefing. Chris Meagher, a White House spokesman, later confirmed that all of the appointees either resigned or has been terminated from their position.

Eighteen Trump appointees were asked to resign. They included former White House officials such as Kellyanne Conway, President Donald J. Trumps counselor; Sean Spicer, his first White House press secretary; Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, Mr. Trumps second national security adviser; and Russell T. Vought, a former director of the White House Office of Management and Budget under Mr. Trump.

Several of them posted screenshots on social media of the letters they said they had received from the White House on Wednesday requesting that they resign by 6 p.m. or be removed from their positions.
In prison, Mr. Ramirez forged a relationship with Dana Moore, the pastor of Second Baptist Church in Corpus Christi. Mr. Ramirez asked that his pastor be allowed to hold his hand or touch his shoulder or foot and to pray out loud with him as he dies.

When prison officials rejected his request, citing security concerns, Mr. Ramirez sued, saying the policy violated his right to exercise his faith at the moment when, as his lawyer put it in a brief, most Christians believe they will either ascend to heaven or descend to hell  in other words, when religious instruction and practice is most needed.

Judge David Hittner of the Federal District Court in Houston ruled against Mr. Ramirez, saying it was enough that prison officials intended to allow Mr. Moore to stand nearby during the execution. Courts should not become entangled, Judge Hittner wrote, in the minutia of prison security procedures.

A divided three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, in New Orleans, upheld the lower courts decision. In dissent, Judge James L. Dennis questioned Texas new policy, which permitted spiritual advisers to be present in the death chamber but prohibited them from touching or praying aloud with the condemned inmates.

What purpose is there for allowing a spiritual adviser, like a pastor, to be present in the execution chamber if that pastor is prohibited from attending to the spiritual needs of the condemned during the final moments of his life, through audible prayer, physical touch, or otherwise? Judge Dennis wrote. At the end of life, what does a pastor do but minister to and comfort his parishioner?
Moroccos moderate Islamist party suffered major losses in parliamentary elections on Wednesday, a stinging setback in one of the last countries where Islamists had risen to power after the Arab Spring protests.

Moroccans cast ballots in legislative, municipal and regional races, the first such votes in the country since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite turnout figures showing nearly half of Moroccans didnt cast a ballot, the results were clear: The Justice and Development Party, the moderate Islamists known as the PJD, who have held power since 2011, faced steep losses up and down the ballot  enough to lose control of Parliament.

With most of the votes counted, the winners included the National Rally of Independents (with 97 seats, according to the Interior Ministry) and the conservative Istiqlal party, both seen as closely aligned with the monarchy. The PJD had 12, according to early results.
The district offers online independent study for those who opt out of in-person learning this year, but so far, only a tiny percentage of students have chosen it.

The months before the mandate takes effect will allow the district to conduct outreach and educational programs for families. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Health, 58 percent of the districts 12-to-18-year-olds have already received at least one vaccine dose.

Los Angeles Unified has been operating vaccine clinics in schools, and has the nations broadest school testing program, screening all students and staff members weekly. Masks are required for every individual on campus, indoors and outdoors, and staff members must be vaccinated, with limited exceptions for serious medical conditions and sincerely held religious beliefs.

Our goal is to keep kids and teachers as safe as possible and in the classroom, said Nick Melvoin, a Los Angeles school board member, in a written statement expressing support for the resolution. A medical and scientific consensus has emerged that the best way to protect everyone in our schools and communities is for all those who are eligible to get vaccinated.

A key constituency supporting the student vaccine mandate is the citys teachers union, United Teachers Los Angeles. Since the start of the pandemic, the group has pushed for stringent safety measures, and during the last academic year, a longer period of remote learning.
Even before Covid, the art world was changing rapidly. Sales that used to happen in New York or Basel, via hushed conversation, now happen through Instagram all over the world. Large galleries are merging to keep up with mega-galleries, while small galleries, somehow, keep multiplying.

From a strictly business point of view, this falls Art Week  which was postponed from spring and runs through Sunday  represents an attempt to carry on with the way things used to be, albeit with some adjustments. The Armory Show, the first major American art fair since the pandemic, has become even more American as travel restrictions and complications knocked 55 mostly European exhibitors into the fairs new online-only component. Visitors to the sprawling Javits Center in Manhattan, the shows new home, will have to prove that theyre vaccinated or have a recent negative coronavirus test, as they will at most of the weeks venues. (Check health protocols beforehand.)

When the Armory Show moved to the fall, satellite shows such as Spring/Break, Art on Paper, Clio, and the stylish little Independent followed it to September. The all-new Future Fair, founded in 2020, is finally happening in person, too. By and large, these are the New York art fairs as youve known and loved, or hated, them, and it simply isnt clear yet if attendance and sales will keep their model viable.
Coming up in the 90s, independent (often shortened to indie) signaled culture that was maverick, authentic and relatively low budget. It meant movies that werent Hollywood-blockbuster types and music not released on corporate record labels. And while art didnt necessarily follow the same ethos, or economic model, the Independent Art Fair, founded by fellow Gen-Xers Elizabeth Dee and Matthew Higgs, kind of felt like it did.

This year, its 12th, is no exception. Still keeping an eye out for overlooked and underrepresented galleries and artists, the Independent is featuring 43 galleries and approximately 100 artists, with lots of women, nonwhite and a few self-taught artists. The quality of the work is exceptional and ranges from painters right out of art school to artists long known to collectors and museums. Solo and duo booths are the norm, making the fair feel like a series of small exhibitions rather than a commercial bazaar. There is also an online component up through Sept. 26, with videos, podcasts and interviews.

And yet, lodged in the Cipriani South Street, inside the Battery Maritime Building, the Independent could hardly be called edgy. More Sundance than the garish Oscars, its an exceedingly pleasant way to re-enter the art world after being battered by hurricanes, politics and pandemics. Here are some highlights.
So when curators at the Dresden State Art Collections, which oversees the Old Masters Picture Gallery, first decided to restore the painting in 2017, there were no plans to expose him. But the rectangle responded differently from the rest of the painting to a solvent that restorers used to remove the varnish, Koja said in an interview.

That suggested the paint contained different components from Vermeers, making it more likely that it was applied by another hand. The darker shade also suggested a later artist might have tried to match the original paint after it had darkened with age.

The museum appointed an advisory panel of Vermeer experts and restorers. The group agreed that removing microscopic samples from the painting for testing was justified  a decision, Koja said, not to be taken lightly. Analysis of the tiny fragments gave conclusive evidence that the Cupid was overpainted years  even decades  after Vermeer completed the work in the late 1650s, Koja said.

We found a layer of varnish with dirt on top of it that must have accumulated later, Koja added. It was clear the top layer of paint wasnt by Vermeer. It was a distortion by a foreign hand against the intention of the artist.
Twenty years after four coordinated terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda killed 2,977 people  2,753 of them at ground zero in New York City  the nation and the city remember. They remember through dance, music, museums, TV specials and light beamed into the sky.

And especially now, after a war in Afghanistan, the ways we remember move beyond commemoration. They start to connect the dots between the attacks themselves and the larger historical era that followed, and continues to unfold.

History echoes and reverberates in Lower Manhattan, where businesses have shuttered once more, this time because of the pandemic. There, from the rooftop of the Battery Parking Garage, two 48-foot squares of light will recreate the ghostly images of the twin towers this Saturday night.
For that matter, is a marriage that ends necessarily a failure? Does a marriage ever really end  is marriage, in the larger sense, a state of being that continues even if you split up? Is it something that exists between two characters, or is it a third character, with a life of its own? Or is it the only character, binding two people into one complex organism even when theyre apart?

Bergmans series probed these questions, and so does Levis, in much the same way and over many of the same story beats, with skill if not wild originality.

The five episodes are not actually titled Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance, but they cover the stages of marital grief in much that way. Levis scripts (two co-written with Amy Herzog) borrow lines from Bergmans original, but the voice is distinct. The installments are play-like, generally involving a handful of scenes that cover a short span of time; the movement comes in the conversations, which shift naturally from banality to flirtation to viciousness to detente.

Levi is a deft emotional choreographer, and Chastain and Isaac are the dancers you want executing the steps. Jonathan is a type Isaac plays well, a reflective intellectual with a need for moral superiority who holds a lot of resentment and familial-religious angst behind that lush beard. Chastains Mira is both more expressive and more controlled; she has less guilt about wanting more from life and love, but shes more volatile than she lets the world see.

When they fight, they fight explosively; one confrontation turns uncomfortably physical. Their muscle-memory sexual attraction is wholly believable. (I remind you: They are played by Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain.) Their connection comes through in tiny moments, as when Jonathan packs a suitcase for Mira, simultaneously an act of love and aggression.

Its all well observed and exquisitely acted, yet this Scenes seems to have defied Tolstoy by finding an unhappy family that is unhappy in a very familiar way. The gender swap may say something about husbands and wives redefining their roles, but TV has had a half century of heterosexual marriage stories since Bergman to work that one out.
Before diving into how the riddles work, we need to keep a few key terms in mind. Anglo-Saxon refers to the history and culture of the people living in what is now England from about A.D. 450 to 1066, that is, when the Normans took over. Anglo-Latin is Latin that was written in England. Old English is the earliest recorded version of the language we speak today, though Old English bears about as much resemblance to contemporary English as English does to modern Danish: Knowing one and not the other, youll be able to pick out some words and phrases, but thats about it. (Middle English  think Chaucer  is different; once you learn some basic accent shifts and key vowel changes, youll be reading The Canterbury Tales in an hour.)

Riddles arent just clever one-offs: They show the full range of literature from this era, and they illuminate an interconnected world. Riddles tap into crossword-brain from all angles. First, you have to figure out how the riddle is asking you to think  Is this a straightforward definition? A double entendre? A wordplay-based web?  and then you try to solve. Orchards collection reveals how much riddles speak to one another not only across time, but across languages. To crack Old English riddles from the Exeter Book, you have to know about their Anglo-Latin predecessors. One Exeter Book riddle describes a creature with one eye and 1,200 heads. It makes no sense  some readers have proposed weird answers like organ  unless you know an aenigma by a Latin riddler called Symphosius that also describes a one-eyed being with many heads, but gives the answer: a one-eyed seller of garlic.

Anglo-Latin riddlers often put their collections together in a very particular order involving elaborate acrostics. The Exeter Book riddles use several traditional riddle opening and closing formulas, like Saga hwaet ic hatte (Say what I am called) and Ic geseah (I saw). Old English poetry uses complex patterns of alliteration, and the riddles are no exception, leaning heavily on repetition and rhythm to give hints. They also play with grammatical gender. Lots of riddles like the paradox of a mother that is also a daughter, but where Latin riddles typically involve the feminine glacies (ice) and aqua (water), Greek riddles favor night and day, since both those nouns are feminine in Greek; in Old English, the trope takes another twist, as both waeter (water) and is (ice) are neuter.

The best way to get better at crosswords is to do crosswords. Thats how you become fluent in crosswordese: AERIE and ARIA and OREO; ISSA RAE and MEL OTT and TERI GARR. Similarly, many riddles rely on the same motifs, and once you start seeing a theme used one way, you cant help seeing it again and again. Orchard tracks themes like the biter bitten, starting with more literal veggie-based riffs  an onion bites the eyes, pepper bites the tongue  and moving on to metaphorical variants as well, like wind (indeed, the tooth of the wind becomes a common riddle within a riddle) or greed.

Many riddles play with form as well as content. Heres where the riddles start to act like cryptic crosswords, a variety more common in Britain than in America. Cryptic crosswords differ from the symmetrical New York Times kind by their extra wordplay. Every cryptic clue has two layers: Theres the content of the clue itself, and then theres a part of the clue that tells you how to solve it. Cryptics might involve anagrams, containers (the word is hidden in plain sight, sandwiched between other words), reversals or deletions; in all cases, theres something you have to do to the letters themselves to get at the solution.
BEASTS BEFORE US

The Untold Story of Mammal Origins and Evolution

By Elsa Panciroli

Richard Owen loathed small mammals, calling them ratlike, shrewlike forms of the most stupid and unintelligent order of sucklers. That wouldnt have mattered if Owen werent one of the most powerful scientists of the Victorian era. A leading anatomist and paleontologist, a founder of Londons famed Natural History Museum, a puller of strings and dispenser of favors, he represented the pinnacle of British scientific endeavor, and when he spoke, even or especially when it was trash talk, it was science speaking. In an age when dinosaurs were all the rage (partly because they were one of Owens passions; it was he who coined the word dinosaur), he had no truck with runty mammalian fossils that dared vie for attention.

Now, some 150 years later, comes the paleontologist Elsa Panciroli, a research fellow at the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, with Beasts Before Us, her smart, passionate and seditious book aimed at erasing Owens lingering influence and showing us the wonders he missed when he dissed small mammals.

These animals did not and do not think in the way we do, Panciroli notes, nor strive for anything but to live and help their offspring do so. Yet when an asteroid strike made earth a hellscape 66 million years ago, they easily outsmarted the supposedly supreme dinosaurs, who quickly vanished, and went on an evolutionary tear that created todays modern ecosystems and (arguably less to their credit) human life. Despite their puny stature, she writes, their evolutionary path is not one of relegation, but innovation. They seized the moment with endothermic gusto.  Their tale is packed with evolutionary eurekas.
O.G. INFLUENCERS We all know how illustrations from iconic picture books can imprint themselves on our imaginations with the indelibility of an important memory. Close your eyes and you might be able to see a gaggle of girls in yellow coats swarming Miss Clavel in Ludwig Bemelmanss Madeline, or amphibious buddies lounging on a log on the cover of Arnold Lobels Frog and Toad Are Friends. Who are the artists behind the latest generation of much-loved, well-thumbed stories, and what shapes their work? I checked in with three best-selling illustrators to find out.

Rafael Lopez, the creator of the human and animal characters inside Jacqueline Woodsons The Day You Begin, was lucky to have an architect mother who encouraged him to draw on the walls of their Mexico City home. (His first mural is still there.) My uncle worked at a paper mill and would bring me discarded paper rolls, Lopez wrote in an email. My mom would remove the furniture in the living room and help me unroll the paper from one end to the other. I would lay down with my giant wooden box full of crayons and draw skeletons marching and parading.

Suzanne Kaufman doodled during boring lessons, then brought her flights of fancy to life at home. Warning: Nerd Alert, wrote the illustrator behind Alexandra Penfolds All Are Welcome, which unfolds in a vibrantly colored classroom (complete with a resident pet). I drew extremely detailed plans on how I would save and unfreeze Han Solo from carbonite. I would design new spaceships that I would build out of pizza boxes when I got home. Finally, when the notebook was full, I would use the corners like a flipbook and animate epic space battles.

Then theres Ryan T. Higgins, author and illustrator of We Dont Eat Our Classmates, who rarely sketched or lost concentration in school  I was so full of anxieties about doing well in class that I forced myself to stay focused, he wrote  but did fall under the sway of three men named Bill. The first was his father, who made up stories of his own; then Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin and Hobbes (Better than Shakespeare, who was another Bill  but hes never been my cup of tea); and, finally, Bill Peet, an author of 35 childrens books, whose Times obituary described him as an early voice of dissent at Disneys so-called Mouse Factory, which earned a reputation for a culture of conformity. Higgins wrote, The way he drew lips and noses and chins is just wonderful.
Biden to require stronger vaccine rules

President Biden on Thursday used the full force of his presidency to get two-thirds of the American work force vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Private sector businesses that have 100 or more employees will have to require vaccination, or mandatory weekly testing, for their workers after Biden instructs the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to draft a rule.

The administration also intends to compel vaccination for federal workers, contractors, and 17 million health care workers in hospitals and other institutions that receive Medicare and Medicaid funding. Most federal workers will face disciplinary action or dismissal if they refuse.

We can and we will turn the tide on Covid-19, Biden said at the White House.

The Delta variants spread has killed roughly 1,500 Americans a day in September. Biden initially steered away from any talk of making vaccines mandatory, but the surge has made him decide on the more aggressive new plan.
These tentative conclusions come from three different sources: expert opinion; research studies; and overall data on cases, hospitalizations and deaths. Lets take them one at a time:

1. Expert opinion

Because the evidence is still emerging and sometimes inconsistent, experts do not read it precisely the same way. Still, I have noticed the broad outlines of a consensus in recent interviews:

Any difference is a small difference, Dr. Aaron Richterman of the University of Pennsylvania told me.

On a per-infection basis, I dont think its changed, Jennifer Nuzzo, the lead epidemiologist for the Johns Hopkins Covid-19 Testing Insights Initiative, said. The risks to vaccinated people havent really changed.

It really is in the I dont know stage, Dr. Paul Sax of Brigham and Womens Hospital said.

Dr. Robert Wachter of the University of California, San Francisco, said: I treat as if it might be a little more severe, but I dont know that it matters that much. I cant think of any public health decision that hinges on whether its the same or 20 percent worse.

Dr. David Dowdy of Johns Hopkins pointed out that most people naturally assume Delta is more severe  because it is new, scary and more contagious. Given this bias, he advises assuming it is not more severe absent good evidence. He thinks its equally likely that Delta is slightly more severe or slightly less severe.

2. The research

The studies evaluating Deltas severity have been frustratingly inconsistent. There has been mixed evidence about whether its more severe or not, Dr. Rebecca Wurtz of the University of Minnesota told me. The final word is not yet in.

Some research  like a study from Scotland  has found that the people who contract Delta get sicker on average than similar people who contracted an earlier version of the virus. Other evidence says otherwise. As Ariana Eunjung Cha of The Washington Post wrote:

A recent technical paper out of Britain suggested the Delta variant does not cause more serious illness than its predecessors, but the analysis did not specifically break out children. David Rubin, a researcher at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia who has been studying U.S. hospitalization data, said that in recent weeks, 1,200 to 1,400 children were inpatients at the peak, and while those numbers may be large, the rate of hospitalization remains the same as in the past at 0.8 to 0.9 percent.

Dowdy notes that the more alarming findings tend to receive more public attention, but that doesnt make them more likely to be right.

3. The topline data

The broad Covid data is probably the biggest reason to doubt that Delta is meaningfully more severe than earlier versions of the virus. The share of Covid cases leading to hospitalization seems to have held steady or even declined in recent months.

Thats true in Britain, including among children too young to be vaccinated. Its true among both vaccinated and unvaccinated Americans in places that publish detailed numbers, like the state of Utah and the city of Seattle. And its true among the full U.S. population: Total cases have risen almost fifteenfold since their June nadir, while hospital admissions have risen about sixfold.

By themselves, none of these comparisons prove much, because the mix of who gets Covid can change over time. But if Delta were significantly more severe, youd expect to see some signs that hospitalizations or deaths were rising faster than new cases. Those signs are hard to find.
The notes published in the International Journal of Legal Medicine and Human Genetics said Dr. Li, the scientist at Chinas Ministry of Public Security, disputed the retractions on behalf of the other authors. None of the authors responded to The Times for comment.

Yves Moreau, a professor of engineering at the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium who has spearheaded a yearslong campaign for the retraction of articles relying on Uyghur DNA, said he had contacted five academic journals to have such papers withdrawn. Four of them have been retracted so far, which Professor Moreau described as just scratching the surface.

He previously analyzed 529 studies from China that involved genetic research and found that, among those published between 2011 and 2018, about half had a co-author who was from the police, military or judiciary.

These lines are very clear, Professor Moreau said. You cant say: I didnt know, I didnt realize and I have no influence.

In 2018, Dr. Li told Nature, the scientific journal, that the studies had been approved by the Institute of Forensic Science and that all individuals provided written informed consent.

We are ordinary forensic scientists who carry out forensic research following the scientific research ethics norms, she wrote.

In May 2020, the U.S. government put Dr. Lis Institute of Forensic Science on a blacklist that restricts its access to U.S. technology. The United States said the institute was complicit in human rights violations and abuses committed in Chinas campaign of repression, mass arbitrary detention, forced labor and high-technology surveillance against Muslim minorities in Xinjiang.
The president of prestigious Tsinghua University in Beijing came under fire this summer after sending each new student a Chinese-language copy of Ernest Hemingways The Old Man and the Sea. He wrote in a letter that he wanted the students to learn courage and perseverance. Some social media users questioned why he would choose the work of an American author or why he didnt encourage the students to study for Chinas rise.

In some cases, Communist Party orthodoxy is replacing foreign texts. Elementary schools in Shanghai may not be conducting English tests, but a new textbook on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era will be required reading in the citys elementary, middle and high schools starting this month. Each student is required to take a weekly class for a semester.

The Communist Party is intensifying ideological control and nationalistic propaganda, an effort that could turn the clock back to the 1950s and 1960s, when the country was closed off to much of the world and political campaigns overrode economic growth. A nationalistic essay widely spread last week by Chinese official media cited the barbaric and ferocious attacks that the U.S. has started to launch against China.

Even just a few years ago, the Chinese government still emphasized learning a foreign language. Chinas foreign language education cant be weakened. Instead, it should be strengthened, wrote the Communist Partys official newspaper, Peoples Daily, in 2019. The article said nearly 200 million Chinese students took foreign-language classes in 2018, from elementary schools all the way to universities. The vast majority of them were learning English.

For a long time, the ability to read and speak English was considered a key to well-paying jobs, study-abroad opportunities and better access to information.

When Mr. Li studied law in Beijing in the late 1970s, the country had just emerged from the tumultuous Cultural Revolution. He and his classmates wanted to learn Western laws, but most of the books were in English, said Tao Jingzhou, Mr. Lis college classmate and a lawyer in Beijing now. Their professors encouraged them to learn English and translate some original works into Chinese.
Microsoft delayed its office return indefinitely, it said in a blog post on Thursday. The company had pushed the full reopening of its U.S. offices to no earlier than Oct. 4., but revised those plans because of the threat of the Delta variant of the coronavirus. Its a stark reminder that this is the new normal, wrote Jared Spataro, Microsofts corporate vice president for modern work. Our ability to come together will ebb and flow. The company has said it will require proof of vaccination for all employees, vendors and guests to enter its offices.
I think that the Department of Labor probably is in good stead to be able to justify its mandate for health and safety reasons for the workers, said Steve Bell, a partner at the law firm Dorsey & Whitney who specializes in labor and employment.

Theyve got a broad pretty solid basis for saying: Were here to protect the workers, and this is part of our purview, and we think that this is something that will protect employees, he said.

OSHA has the authority to quickly issue a rule, known as an emergency temporary standard, if it can show that workers are exposed to a grave danger and that the rule is necessary to address that danger. The rule must also be feasible for employers to enforce.

Such a standard would pre-empt existing rules by state governments, except in states that have their own OSHA-approved workplace agencies  about half the states in the country. States with their own programs have 30 days to adopt a standard that is at least as effective, and that must cover state and local government employees, such as teachers. Federal OSHA rules do not cover state and local government employees.

The regulation is expected to be challenged in court by employers and perhaps even some states. But the legal basis for a state challenge is likely to be weakest in states that are directly within OSHAs jurisdiction. Among them are some of the states that have been hardest hit by Covid-19 recently and where politicians have been resistant to mandates  such as Texas and Florida.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the business lobby, said in a statement that it will work to ensure that employers have the resources, guidance and flexibility necessary to ensure the safety of their employees and customers and comply with public health requirements. Another major business advocacy group, the Business Roundtable, said it welcomes the Biden administration actions, including the requirement that companies offer paid time off for workers to get vaccinated.

The Culinary Workers Union, which represents 57,000 workers in Nevada, said stricter vaccine mandates were the only way we see a full recovery possible.
WASHINGTON  The Biden administration on Thursday took the first steps that would allow it to begin the process of protecting Alaskas pristine Bristol Bay, one of the worlds most valuable sockeye salmon fisheries that also sits atop massive copper and gold deposits long coveted by mining companies.

The administration filed a motion in the United States District Court for Alaska to quash a Trump-era decision that had stripped environmental protections for Bristol Bay, about 200 miles southwest of Anchorage. If the court agrees, the administration could begin crafting permanent protections for the area.

In a statement, the Environmental Protection Agency argued that the administration of President Donald J. Trump acted unlawfully in 2019 when it rejected concerns that a proposed massive gold and copper mine would threaten the fisheries, withdrawing federal protections from Bristol Bay.

The move will have little immediate effect because the Trump administration ultimately denied an essential permit for the project, known as Pebble Mine, in 2020. That happened after President Trumps son Donald Trump Jr. and the Fox News personality Tucker Carlson, both of whom enjoyed hunting and fishing in the region, joined environmental activists and Native tribes to oppose the mine in an unlikely coalition.
wealth matters

Homes in Queens were flooded by the remnants of Hurricane Ida last week. As extreme weather becomes more common, insurance companies are rethinking which homes to cover and at what price.

Wildfires in California and Oregon. Hurricanes that wreak havoc from the Gulf Coast up to the Northeast. Hail in the Midwest that is so big and falls with such intensity that it punctures roofs.

Extreme weather is causing billions of dollars in property damage with a greater frequency than even a few years ago. In response, insurance companies are increasingly rethinking which homes to cover and at what price.

In some cases, theyre raising premiums two to five times in a year. In others, theyre denying coverage because they deem it too risky to have a lot of properties in an area that is prone to wildfires (like Los Angeles County).

Insurers are also putting more of the onus on homeowners to keep up the maintenance on, say, roofs in areas that are regularly hit by hurricanes. They may also be asking if homeowners in fire-prone areas have done anything to mitigate fire damage. And people looking to buy a coastal home should make sure it is insurable at all.

The severity, frequency and size of the storms is really whats changed in the last two to three years, said Jean Sullivan, vice president of insurance sales at Precisely, a data analytics company that does geographic risk assessments.

Insurance companies are finding out that the models they built just three to five years ago are not holding up in the last two to three years, she said. Thats concerning to them, and thats caused more pressure on the reinsurance companies that insure their risk, and more pressure on the homeowner.

As a result, many homeowners in climate-ravaged areas are starting to have to deal with the availability and affordability of insurance, along with stricter terms and conditions, said Ross Buchmueller, president chief executive of PURE Insurance, which focuses on high-net-worth clients.

If you want to buy a house in the canyons of Beverly Hills, you should check that its insurable, Mr. Buchmueller said. Its not about someone couldnt get insurance at a fair price. Its you cant get insurance at all in certain places.

NFP, a large brokerage, felt fortunate to be able to retain a celebrity clients insurance even with the price doubling, said Brett Woodward, the firms managing director, who runs the personal risk practice.

He was paying $400,000 a year for his insurance last year, Mr. Woodward said. It was renewed in July at $850,000. We were happy he still had coverage.

The changes in the market have opened up opportunities for newer companies to provide coverage  though at a steep price.

We just charged someone $1.9 million for insurance in California with a $1 million deductible, said Charles Williamson, chief executive of Vault, an insurance company that was started in 2017 and serves wealthy people in most East Coast states, California, Colorado and Texas. Theres almost no capacity in Beverly Hills, because every insurance company is full up and Beverly Hills is very vulnerable to wildfire.

But even some wealthier homeowners are asking if insurance, or at least insurance for the full value of their homes, is worth paying year after year.

Some California clients of Bessemer Trust, a wealth management firm, have put in their own wildfire-protection systems instead of paying high premiums on insurance with limited coverage, said Gary Pasternack, head of insurance advisory at Bessemer.

It may be more economical for someone to spend money on loss-mitigation strategies than to pay so much in premium for policies that have large deductibles and poor coverage, he said. Its playing out in California now in a significant way. People have to make a decision: Do I want to continue to buy insurance, or should I be making more of an investment in protecting my property against losses, particularly fire losses in the West?

A built-in system that sprays foam on a house to protect it from catching fire can cost $4 to $6 a square foot. Its even more expensive on multiple-building estates in fire-prone areas, Mr. Pasternack said. Some homeowners have bought foam systems mounted on all-terrain vehicles and given caretakers the responsibility of spraying down the buildings.

Of course, that system wont work if there is an evacuation order. Still, Mr. Pasternack said, homeowners get creative when a policy that had an $80,000 annual premium a few years ago is now unavailable in the regular market or costs five times that  or, in one case he saw, 10 times more.

Short of foam-spraying A.T.V.s, there are things regular homeowners can do to protect their homes. A well-maintained roof can stand up better to hurricanes, heavy winds, and rain or hail. And insurers are often using aerial photography to see it.

Even though you have trees hanging over your house, theyre using aerial imagery to look at your roof, Ms. Sullivan of Precisely said. Are there shingles missing? Does it have moss growing on it? Are there signs of it failing?

Climate has changed the way many insurers are looking at claims, particularly if a roof may have been older than its useful life.

Take a wood or cedar shake roof, Mr. Woodward said. Lets say its supposed to last 40 years. An insurer may start knocking off coverage at the 20-year mark.

Location has also become an issue. Insurers are using local climate data to be more precise in how they insure a property, Ms. Sullivan said.

Five, 10 years ago, if your property was in a certain ZIP code, that was good enough for them, she said. They need to know more now. They need to know where that home is located on the property. Is there a flood zone? How close is it to a river? The cost for the same property at two ends of a street could be different because of the elevation.

Some people who bought homes in unfamiliar areas or have fewer choices in an overheated market have found after the fact that the properties, particularly older, coastal homes, were uninsurable through traditional means. To get coverage, they have to turn to what is called the surplus market, where the rates set by the state insurance regulator do not apply. An insurer in that market can charge whatever it wants.

Wealthy individuals are buying homes quickly in places like Florida because of a lack of inventory, and before they would have bought a home that was better built for the same price, Mr. Woodward said. Then we have a 30- to 60-day close, and we have to get them coverage. A lot of people didnt envision the cost of that insurance when they made the purchase.

Insurance on an older $1 million South Florida home that was not built to the regions codes, which have protections against wind and rain damage, could be $40,000, compared with $3,000 for a similar home elsewhere, Mr. Woodward said. Getting that old home up to code so the premiums would come down, including new windows, doors and roof, can cost $100,000 or more, he said.

Mr. Buchmueller said a friend was building a home in Florida with an eye toward protecting it from extreme weather. The home isnt in South Florida, so the building codes are looser, but the friend asked that the roof be strapped on and meet the more stringent code.

The contractor told him that required 29,000 more roof fasteners, Mr. Buchmueller said. Its not a small measure to add the South Florida code to a home.

Whether its a starter home or a $5 million beach house, some owners are more mindful than others about taking care of their house.

Some people treat their home like its their home, Mr. Woodward said. But some people treat their home like its just a place where they live. And I dont care what youre spending.

Extreme weather may force more homeowners to take better care of their houses  or risk losing their insurance.
Some Foremothers, and Fathers

In the beginning, American fashion was largely defined by what it wasnt: European.

As Elizabeth Hawes, a sketcher turned journalist turned designer who went to Paris in the 1920s as a copyist  a patternmaker hired to copy French designs to be sold in the American market  wrote in her classic memoir-treatise, Fashion Is Spinach, one of the greatest achievements of the French was to convince the world that their clothing design was the only real clothing design, their savoir-faire intrinsic to the essence of chic. Thus began a parade of American designers  Charles James, Main Rousseau Bocher (whose name somehow went from being pronounced Main Bocker to being pronounced Man-bo-shay)  hying themselves to Paris to get the endorsement of the Gallic establishment and thus confirm their legitimacy.

The first designers who turned their Americanness into an asset  Ms. McCardell, Bonnie Cashin, Rudi Gernreich  did it in part by offering an alternative to the highly structured and class-dependent traditions of French dressmaking, which dictated style from head to foot. They used zippers (zippers!), patch pockets, ponchos; they elevated everyday materials like denim and gingham and the white shirt. The point was to offer clothes that could be mixed and matched to suit the wearer and the context  clothes that could liberate them from the dictates of a single designer or the confines of the suit or the demands to change multiple times a day. Later Mr. Gernreich even liberated the breast from the swimsuit.

Thats when the sportswear stereotype was born, defined by the ideas of practicality and functionality and utility, which connect to the romance of the pioneer and the self-made. Even then, though, that was an overly simplistic generalization. For every McCardell there was an Adrian, who came from the Hollywood tradition and had little truck with basics.

Still, sportswear remained the dominant ethos, setting the stage for the Battle of Versailles, when Halston (who famously freed the body even further), Stephen Burrows, Bill Blass, Oscar de la Renta and Anne Klein triumphed over Saint Laurent, Givenchy, et al. And they, in turn, paved the way for the generation of big brands that came after  Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan  with their emphasis on minimalism, physicality and national storytelling. A fresh wind was a-blowin through the musty corridors that Paris occupied in consumer minds.

This narrative went in and out of fashion. It got Michael Kors and Alexander Wang (to name two designers) to Celine and Balenciaga, but could not keep them there, since what was first framed as a positive eventually became (at least in fashion) a code for not as creative or not as artistic or the even more pejorative commercial.
Matthew Myers, president of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, said that the F.D.A.s denial of thousands of products was significant progress but that much more was needed, such as action on Juul and a ban on all flavored e-cigarettes, including menthol.

The decisions the F.D.A. still has to make are more important than the ones theyve made already, Mr. Myers said. If they dont commit to making them promptly, then we have no choice but to ask a court to intervene.

While overall smoking rates have fallen sharply since the mid-1960s, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States, contributing to the deaths of nearly half a million Americans each year. E-cigarettes, which deliver vaporized nicotine without many of the carcinogens inhaled with combustible cigarettes, have been marketed as a safer alternative despite unsettled science about their broader public health impact.

Since e-cigarettes came on the market in the United States in the mid-2000s, youth vaping has increased steadily. By 2019, more than 27 percent of high school students reported in surveys that they vaped. That figure dropped to less than 20 percent during the coronavirus pandemic, which experts said could partly reflect the fact that teenagers were isolated and less likely to use social drugs.

The fate of Juul and other market leaders also is part of a larger conversation about the best way to further discourage cigarette use. Some experts believe the most effective step would be to limit the amount of nicotine levels in traditional cigarettes, making them less appealing.

Juul initially pitched itself as a foe of Big Tobacco. But in December 2018, the company sold a 35 percent stake to Altria, one of the worlds largest cigarette companies, for $12.8 billion.

Critics have argued that Juuls initial marketing campaigns and flavors like cool cucumber and creme brulee lured a new generation of young people to nicotine, many of whom became addicted.
Late last year, the federal governments chief statistician on death received word about a tantalizing discovery: Someone had died from Covid-19 in January 2020, a death certificate said, a revelation that would have sped up the timeline of the viruss spread in the United States by several weeks.

That death was ultimately not what it seemed. The person who certified it had meant June 2020, not January. But that blip on the radar screen of Robert Anderson, the chief of mortality statistics at a branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helped to kick off a quiet, yearlong campaign at the agency to check and recheck the countrys first suspected Covid-related deaths in the uncertain days of early 2020.

Now, at least four possible Covid-19 deaths from January 2020 have survived Dr. Andersons vetting. Spread out across four states, they have become part of a scattershot collection of clues about the viruss early spread beyond China  some of them trustworthy, others less so  that have begun drawing more attention as scientists and intelligence officials try to unravel how the pandemic began.

The odds that all four of the C.D.C.s new death cases  from Kansas, California, Alabama and Wisconsin  really did result from Covid-19 are slim, some scientists said. This year, a doctor or another official certifier reclassified them as being Covid-related. But whether they did so solely on the basis of the persons symptoms, or with the help of more useful blood or tissue samples, is not clear.
Two decades after invading Afghanistan, the United States is withdrawing, leaving chaos in its wake and the country much as it found it 20 years ago. The Taliban dont just control Kabul, but the whole country. How did a war that began in response to the 9/11 attacks become the longest in American history? If somebody had told me in 2001 that we were going to be there for another 20 years, I would not have believed them. And what lessons can be learned for the future? We were doing the same thing year after year after year, expecting a different result. Nearly 2,400 Americans have died in Afghanistan. More than 43,000 Afghan civilians lost their lives. You cant remake a country on the American image. You cant win if youre fighting people who are fighting for their own villages and their own territory. Those were lessons we thought we learned in Vietnam. And yet, 30, 40 years later, we end up in Afghanistan, repeating the same mistakes. On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, President George W. Bush was visiting an elementary school in Sarasota, Fla., when he received word of an attack on the World Trade Center in New York City. Were looking at a live picture of the, of the building right now. And, uh, what would you say? That would be about the 90th floor or so? The president joined his staff in an empty classroom, where his C.I.A. intelligence briefer, Michael Morell, had been watching the attack unfold. There was a TV there and the second plane hit. Oh my goodness. Oh God. Theres another one. Oh. Oh my goodness, theres another one. God. And when that happened, I knew that this was an act of terrorism. At the Capitol in Washington, Representative Barbara Lees meeting was interrupted. I heard a lot of noise saying, Evacuate. Leave. Get out of here. Run fast. So, I ran up Independence Avenue. As I turned around, I was able to see a heck of a lot of smoke. Another aircraft, unbelievably, has crashed into the Pentagon. What you have to understand is this is the largest attack ever in the entire history of the country. At 9:59 a.m., the second World Trade Center tower to be struck collapsed. Twenty-nine minutes later, the other tower followed. The president, he asked to see me in his office on Air Force One. The president looked me in the eye and he said, Michael, who did this? I told the president that I would bet my childrens future that Al Qaeda was responsible for this attack. Within hours, evidence surfaced that Al Qaeda, a multinational terrorist organization headed by the Islamic fundamentalist Osama Bin Laden, had committed the attacks. The group was being given safe haven in Afghanistan by the Taliban regime. The presidents inclination was to hit back and hit back hard. I can hear you. The rest of the world hears you. And the people   So the president decided to go to war.   And the people who knocked these buildings down will hear all of us soon. We had to go to Afghanistan. Theres no question in any of our minds, its a war of necessity. We had to go after Al Qaeda, we had to kill them, we had to get them out, and we had to pursue them to the ends of the earth. The word on the street was everyones got to be united with the president. You know, the country is in mourning. Three days after the attacks, Lee was under pressure to vote yes on a resolution in Congress to authorize going to war against Al Qaeda and its allies when she heard a eulogy at a memorial service. That as we act, we not become the evil we deplore. It was at that point I said, We need to think through our military response, our national security response and the possible impact on civilians. Mr. Speaker, members, I rise today really with a very heavy heart. One that is filled with sorrow for the families and the loved ones who were killed and injured this week. Yet I am convinced that military action will not prevent further acts of international terrorism against the United States. Got back to the office and all hell was breaking loose. The only dissenting voice was Democrat Barbara Lee of California, voting no. Phone calls, threats. People were calling me a traitor. Shes got to go. But I knew then it was going to set the stage for perpetual war. Within weeks of 9/11, the U.S. struck back in Afghanistan. The United States military has begun strikes against Al Qaeda terrorist training camps and military installations of the Taliban regime. Soon after, U.S. ground troops arrived in the country. The invasion was a success very quickly. At the gates of Kabul, news of a Taliban collapse had already reached these thousands. The Taliban retreat has turned into a rout. By the end of the year, the Taliban had been driven from power. A large number of Al Qaeda operatives had either been killed or captured. And although Osama Bin Laden had managed to escape, the U.S. had accomplished its main goal. Al Qaeda could not operate out of Afghanistan anymore. President Bush knew there was a history of failed military campaigns in Afghanistan. We know this from not only intelligence but from the history of military conflict in Afghanistan. Its been one of initial success followed by long years of floundering and ultimate failure. Were not going to repeat that mistake. [Applause] But after his initial success, Bush expanded the mission to nation-building. To prevent further Al Qaeda attacks, his administration said it wanted to transform the poor, war-torn country into a stable democracy, with a strong central government and U.S.-trained military. The idea was it would be impossible for the Taliban to ever return to power and impossible for Afghanistan to ever be used as a safe haven again. There were girls starting to go to school, there were clinics and hospitals being set up, there were vaccinations, there were elections planned. Everything was kind of humming along and we all thought, OK, this is going to be fine. But by the mid-2000s, after the Bush administration expanded the war on terror to Iraq, Richard Boucher realized that the U.S.-backed Afghan government was plagued by corruption and mismanagement. I used to say to my guys on the Afghan desk, If were winning, how come it dont look like were winning? The Taliban have staged a major comeback, seizing control of large swaths of the country. The people were not rejecting the Taliban. And that was, in the end, because the government couldnt deliver much for the people. Everybody had this idea in their heads that government works the way it does in Washington. But Afghanistan hasnt worked that way in the past. I think that was a moment we shouldve at least asked ourselves whether it wasnt really time for us to leave and to say to the Afghans, Its your place, you run it as best you can. Instead, by 2011, President Bushs successor, Barack Obama, had sent nearly 50,000 more troops to Afghanistan, hoping to reverse the Talibans gains. I think one of the biggest mistakes we made strategically, after 9/11, was to fail to finish the job here, focus our attention here. We got distracted by Iraq. One of those troops was Marine Captain Timothy Kudo. Part of his job was to shore up support for the government by digging wells and building schools. He soon lost faith in that mission after, he says, his company killed two Afghan teenagers they mistakenly believed were firing on them. And their family saw this happen. The mothers, the grandmothers, they came out. It was the first time Id ever seen an Afghan woman without wearing a burqa. They were sobbing and crying uncontrollably. I mean, how can you kill two innocent people and expect anything that you say to matter at that point? People here have little faith in U.S. forces anymore. More Afghans now blame the violence here on the U.S. than on the Taliban. Weeks after Kudo returned home from Afghanistan, there was a monumental development. I started getting all these texts, like, Youve got to check out the TV. My roommate calls me from the other room. Turn on CNN. The United States has conducted an operation that killed Osama Bin Laden, the leader of Al Qaeda. U.S.A.! U.S.A.! In that moment, people are celebrating in front of the White House. Theyre celebrating by Ground Zero. This is where it happened. Were back. Its justice! And to my mind, theres no more reason to go through this madness. And, of course, we then did it for another decade. I think the military and the national security apparatus thought they could win. And I think that they also wanted to believe that because they had invested so much. People had died and they didnt want them to die in vain. 2011, Bin Laden is now dead. Why was it so hard to de-escalate? Jeffrey Eggers was on President Obamas National Security Council. He says that the goal since 9/11, to make sure Afghanistan would never again be a safe haven for terrorists, had become a recipe for endless war. We will forever prevent the conditions that led to such an attack. Danger close! [Gunfire] And if you define it that way, when are you finished? [Gunfire] Go! Come on, come on, come on! Though the surge failed to push back the Taliban, the U.S. drew down troop levels even as doubts were growing that Afghan forces would be able to defend the country. In 2021, President Biden, the fourth president to preside over the war, announced that he would withdraw U.S. troops, a plan set in motion by his predecessor, Donald Trump. Nobody should have any doubts. We lost the war in Afghanistan. And were clear to cross? It wasnt a peace agreement; it was a withdrawal agreement. The agreement was essentially, As we withdraw, dont attack us. As the U.S. leaves Afghanistan, the Taliban is taking over again, having quickly overrun the Afghan Army, which the U.S. spent more than $80 billion to train and equip. The Taliban are out in full force. And their Islamist rule is already coming back. They can use this as a recruiting tool. They are now the champions of the jihadi movement because they pushed out the United States. And U.S. officials are reflecting on the beginning of the war, 20 years after 9/11. More people should have thought about endless war, not just in Congress but in the State Department, in the Defense Department, C.I.A. and elsewhere, in the White House. That the recipe of using military means to go after terrorism was just going to get us into one fight after another after another. One can only hope that Americans of the new generation will think about this.
Tendrils of menace creep through the unnerving drama Azor, snaking through every room and scene. Its 1980 and a Swiss private banker and his wife are traveling through Argentina, taking in the sights while he tries to clean up a mess left by a missing colleague. Danger is everywhere  people have disappeared, are disappearing  though you wouldnt necessarily know it from the mansions they visit, where the Swiss interlopers exchange pleasantries with the Buenos Aires elite, some of whom voice vague warnings. Others just smile knowingly, betraying their loyalties.

A harrowing vision of evil from the inside, the movie tracks the banker, Yvan (Fabrizio Rongione), as he journeys through Argentina several years after armed forces overthrew the government of President Isabel Martinez de Peron. For most of Yvans clients, life seems to go on as before, with little to disrupt their cosseted indolence. With the junta ruling the country, the wealthy, murmuring about nothing much, sip drinks by their pools, tended by fleets of servants. Again and again, Yvan apologizes for the behavior of his missing colleague, Rene Keys (seen briefly in the opening), a confounding figure intensely disliked by some yet beloved by others.

Written and directed by Andreas Fontana, making a formally precise, tonally perfect feature debut, Azor is a low-key shocker. It has you in its cool grip from the opening shot of a shambolic-looking Keys standing in suit and tie before a flat, blurred backdrop of jungle greenery. As the camera holds on him, he seems more ill at ease and his laughing smiles give way to unexplained agitation. He suddenly looks like a man searching for an exit. As the story unfolds, this perturbation suffuses the movie. It shapes every gesture, sidelong glance and oblique comment, turning an outwardly routine business trip into a mystery unlocked only through Keys.

With its swampy air of unease and the figure of the enigmatic missing man, the key to the story as it were, Azor vaguely evokes films like Carol Reeds The Third Man (written by Graham Greene), though without the narrative pulse and concerns or Hollywood glamour of that cloak-and-dagger thriller. (The name Keys recalls that of Edward G. Robinsons claims adjuster, Keyes, in Double Indemnity.) Certainly Azor has a smattering of suspense-film essentials: hushed conversations, clouds of cigarette smoke, heavily armed soldiers. For his part, the colorless Yvan, with his stiff politesse and old-world firm, presents the very picture of a useful patsy.
A winning cast helps sell that familiar premise  not just Reale and Young-White, who have definite chemistry and an easy-flowing banter, but also the brassy, scene-stealing Catherine Cohen, as Jessie, a friend of Wendys and the new girlfriend of Milos friend Hank (Brian Muller). This fantasized New York is, as the characters acknowledge, a small world.

Stylistically, Dating & New York, a first feature from the writer-director Jonah Feingold, insists on selling its charm. The peppy, fast-paced cutting and constant references to Instagram and podcasts  the movie wouldnt want you to forget its about millennials (or cliches about millennials)  nudge viewers to laugh, as if Feingold were employing the directorial equivalent of push alerts. And for all the tech, the New York of Dating & New York feels like its been formed from hazy impressions of a less overloaded, less distractible era. The film does score, though, with a one-liner about a man who would lie about his age to land on a 30 under 30 list.

Dating & New York

Rated PG-13. Dating and New York. Running time: 1 hour 31 minutes. In theaters and available to rent or buy on Apple TV, Google Play and other streaming platforms and pay TV operators.
At one point, a tipsy Carino subjects Adam to a middle-of-the-night Happy Birthday serenade. Thats a comic interlude sprouting in a field of melodrama. Language Lessons includes a sudden off-camera death and intimations of domestic violence and serious illness. Through it all, the teacher-student relationship intensifies and eventually begins to fray.

Adam, reeling from grief, finds distraction in studying Spanish and a sympathetic companion in Carino. As the bond between them becomes more complicated, the movie begins to feel less like an exploration of that connection than a lesson in plot construction.

Instead of making Carino and Adam interesting, Duplass and Morales make things happen to them. The twists in the story are meant to raise the emotional stakes, but they have the opposite effect, undermining the credibility of the premise. The harder the movie leans into its own cleverness, the more it exposes itself as a diverting but ultimately unconvincing exercise.

Language Lessons

Not rated. In English and Spanish, with subtitles. Running time: 1 hour 31 minutes. In theaters.
Queenpins might have been a snappy little comedy had it lost 20 minutes and found a point beyond glorifying grand larceny. Erasing the lead characters smug-perky narration wouldnt have hurt, either.

Set mainly in suburban Phoenix, Ariz.  with pit stops in other dehydrated locations  the movie smiles on Connie (Kristen Bell), a cash-strapped coupon cutter whose bland good cheer masks a desperate longing for a child.

Youre trying to replace a baby with coupons, her husband (Joel McHale), a withdrawn I.R.S. agent, accurately observes before largely disappearing from the story. Connies true partner, though, is JoJo (Kirby Howell-Baptiste), a bubbly neighbor and vlogger looking for a break. Together, they hatch a scheme to steal coupons from a printing facility in Mexico and sell them on YouTube. What could possibly go wrong?
A man sits writing in a room, alone in his head, alone in the world. We hear his words, his thoughts, in a voice-over thats a portal to his reality. Its an intimate, unmodulated voice, and what he says is often unremarkable to the point of banality. Yet something troubles the man which, in turn, troubles you. He may be a good man gone wrong or a bad one gone right; the only thing certain is that he jumped out of the head of Paul Schrader.

The solitary man in a room is Schraders most indelible authorial signature, a defining image and idea in one. That figure most famously appears in his script for Taxi Driver, in which Travis Bickle, the cabby turned killer, pours out his rancid and bland thoughts; and he is the fulcrum of movies that Schrader has directed, notably Light Sleeper and First Reformed. The solitary man returns in The Card Counter, a haunting, moving story of spirit and flesh, sin and redemption, love and death about another lonely soul, William Tell, who, with pen to paper, grapples with his present and his unspeakable past.

A soldier turned professional card player, Tell  Oscar Isaac, a seductive force field  learned to count cards in prison, a talent he uses as he travels from casino to casino. Now, in anonymous, interchangeable gambling houses, he sits at blackjack and poker tables with strangers and sometimes other pros, counting, betting and often winning. Hes a disciplined player and a discreet gambler, winning just enough to avoid unwelcome attention. The days move along with regularity, over and over, one day indistinguishable from the next, to quote Travis Bickle. Every so often, Tell spins a roulette wheel.

Its so good to be in Schraders world (and head) when the movie is as good as The Card Counter. One of the most enduring veterans of New Hollywood, Schrader is best known for his collaborations with Martin Scorsese, whose name prominently embellishes this new movies credits. At the same time, Schrader has produced his own distinctive directorial corpus thats informed by classical Hollywood and by classic international art cinema, traditions he can put into productive tension like few others. Its always interesting to see what hes up to, even when he doesnt have a firm hand on his material, hasnt found its perfect (or near-enough) shape and style  which hes done here.
Shortly after he took office eight years ago, Mayor Bill de Blasio vowed to tackle inequality in New York Citys public schools. But as the mayor enters his final months in office, the citys schools remain among the most racially segregated in America.

Now, Mr. de Blasio is planning one last attempt to fulfill his promise before he leaves City Hall. With little to lose politically, the mayor is soon poised to overhaul how students are admitted into the citys gifted and talented classes, a move that could fundamentally reshape competitive school admissions.

The moment holds enormous opportunity, said Jonathan Plucker, a professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Education, who believes the city has the potential to serve as a model for other districts trying to integrate their own gifted classrooms.

If New York can do it, everyone else is going to start to do it, he said. It could be transformative. But Mr. Plucker predicted that the system wont be changed without a fight. Theres no way New York City will come out the other side without it being nasty, he said.
But now, Mayor Bill de Blasio is poised to overhaul how students are admitted into those classes. The programs help create what many experts consider a two-tiered educational system for children as young as 4  and the move could fundamentally reshape competitive school admissions.

What the mayor plans to do remains unclear. But he has promised to announce a shift this fall.

[Read more of my colleague Eliza Shapiros reporting on the issue.]

Heres what to know:

The details

New York runs about 80 gifted programs, and only about 16,000 of the citys roughly 1 million students are enrolled in them. But white and Asian American students make up about 75 percent of those classrooms, while constituting just 25 percent of the school system.

The plans for change

Mr. de Blasio has avoided taking on gifted admissions until recently. For years, he largely ignored a task force recommendation to eliminate the citys current gifted education system.
But could a third dose still strengthen the vaccines protection? For people with fragile immune systems, the answer appears to be yes: About 3 percent to 5 percent of the population is immunocompromised, some of whom did not produce a strong immune response from their initial doses. A third shot could offer them the immunity most people get from two shots, The Timess Apoorva Mandavilli says.

But for immunocompetent people, its hard to say how much a third dose would help. It could increase antibody production, Wu writes, which could in turn cut down on transmission  but for how long? Some experts say waiting for a vaccine thats tailored to the Delta variant or administered nasally would be a surer bet.

We dont know whether a non-Delta booster would improve protection against Delta, Dr. Aaron Richterman of the University of Pennsylvania told Leonhardt.

A separate question is whether a third dose would extend immune memory. Though there is no evidence at the moment, Dr. Peter Hotez, a vaccine expert at the Baylor College of Medicine, believes it might: Most pediatric vaccines have at least an eight-week recommended interval between doses  as opposed to the Covid vaccines three- and four-week intervals  followed by boosters at even longer intervals.

Greater spacing helps to maximize immunological memory and antibody responses, he writes in The Los Angeles Times. Its possible that from the start, the mRNA Covid-19 vaccine was most effective as a three-dose vaccine, even without pressure from the Delta variant.

The bottom line: When Biden announced the booster program, he said: It will make you safer, and for longer. And it will help us end the pandemic faster. But for immunocompetent people, federal health officials have said they do not have evidence to support those claims.
The system as its designed allows a minority faction that really has no hope of winning statewide election to get a recall on the ballot, said Chris Elmendorf, a professor at the University of California, Davis, School of Law, who studies elections.

Some Californians point to the last recall election, in 2003, as evidence that the system works. That year, voters booted Gray Davis, a Democrat, and replaced him with Arnold Schwarzenegger, a Republican. While Mr. Schwarzenegger fell short of winning an outright majority, at least more people voted for him than voted to keep Mr. Davis.

But is that good enough? There are numerous ways that California should reform its recall system.

First, it ought to shift the burden of winning majority support from the incumbent  who was, after all, duly elected by the voters  and put it on the recall effort. There is a reason that impeaching and removing the president requires not only a majority vote in the House but also a supermajority in the Senate. In a democracy, the results of a regularly scheduled election should not be overturned before the next election except in the most extraordinary circumstances.

Other states with recall provisions, like Minnesota and Washington, require an act of malfeasance or a conviction for a serious crime for the recall to proceed. Mr. Newsoms maskless dinner at a high-end restaurant to celebrate a lobbyists birthday, which buttressed the recall effort, was certainly hypocritical and tone-deaf, but it shouldnt alone be grounds for early eviction from office.

Another needed reform is to make it harder to get a recall on the ballot in the first place. Among the 18 other states with voter recall measures, none have a lower threshold than Californias. It takes signatures equal to just 12 percent of the total votes cast in the previous gubernatorial election to initiate a recall in California. In many other states, the threshold is 25 percent. In Kansas, the bar is 40 percent. In 2020 alone, at least 14 governors nationwide faced recall efforts, but only Californias attempt proceeded to a ballot, according to Joshua Spivak, a senior fellow at Wagner Colleges Hugh L. Carey Institute for Government Reform and the author of a recent book on recall elections. Thats due in part to those other states higher thresholds. California already has a more stringent 20 percent standard for recalls of state lawmakers and judges. That would make sense for governors as well.

Finally, Californias system discourages the sitting governors party from backing a replacement candidate for fear of bolstering the recall effort. Thats why Mr. Newsom asked voters to vote no on the recall and leave the second question blank. Doing so makes it even more likely that a candidate from the opposing party will win.

Another fix would be to hold the vote on the recall itself on a different day than the vote on a successor, as several other states do. That would give replacement candidates time to put together a campaign on the issues, rather than just on the recall itself.
Ever since insurrectionists invaded the Capitol, weve heard that Jan. 6 closed a chapter in American history. No longer should Americas most threatening enemies be understood as foreign  a euphemism for Muslim  but instead as domestic, a euphemism for primarily white Americans on the far right. The post-9/11 era, where our greatest threats to national security were external, is over, said Representative Elissa Slotkin, Democrat of Michigan and a former C.I.A. and Pentagon official.

But Jan. 6 is less a bookend to the Sept. 11 era than a manifestation of it.

The war on terror accustomed white Americans to seeing themselves as counterterrorists. Armed white Americans on the far right could assemble in militias, whether in Northern states like Michigan or on the southern border, and face little in the way of law enforcement reprisal. Such impunity led to situations like one in 2016, recounted in a relatively rare criminal complaint, when members of a Kansas militia with the revealing name the Crusaders plotted to murder their Somali American neighbors. Make sure if you start using your bow on them cockroaches, make sure you dip them in pigs blood before you shoot them, one militia member stated. They considered themselves to be doing what America was doing all this time: combating terrorism, since, as patriots, they couldnt be committing terrorism.

As the foreign wars became disasters, the faction of the far right that became part of President Donald Trumps MAGA coalition found itself less interested in the wars themselves than in civilizational violence. Many MAGA adherents applauded when Mr. Trump as a presidential candidate said he would bomb the [expletive] out of the Islamic State and called for the barring of Muslims from entering the country. According to the story told by Mr. Trump and his allies, American leaders of the intelligence agencies and the military were unwilling to unleash sufficient violence against sufficient Muslims, unwilling to close the borders, overly willing to conduct nation-building and regime change in unfamiliar countries and aligned with enemies like President Barack Obama, who he suggested was a secret Muslim.
To the Editor:

Re Frayed Nerves for the Teachers of the Maskless (front page, Sept. 7):

I am a former colleague of Dr. Matthew Boedy at the University of North Georgia. Former because on Aug. 20, I resigned from a teaching job I had held and loved for two decades rather than teach unmasked, unvaccinated students in small classrooms with the surging Delta variant of Covid-19.

I anticipated that many of the universitys students would shun voluntary mask-wearing in the classrooms. Accordingly, I was stunned by the magical thinking of the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and U.N.G. administrators who refused to mandate mask-wearing for class attendance and who insisted on face-to-face teaching despite an advisory from the C.D.C. about the need for mask-wearing in indoor spaces.

I could not imagine doing my job comfortably and well with the constant anxiety of potentially contracting a breakthrough Covid infection for myself and spreading it to my family. Dr. Boedy is correct in calling the classroom situation a hellscape.

The Board of Regents bears particular responsibility in view of its ignoring pleas from some faculty and some students to continue the online instruction we successfully accomplished during the 2020-21 academic year.
Because most abortion procedures in Texas take place after six weeks, the new law, as one of the nations most restrictive, will certainly reduce abortions in Texas drastically. It will also continue to be challenged in the courts. But if we start from the biological and ontological reality that each human life begins at conception, the law is hardly extreme, as President Biden has called it. A law preserving the life of a human being at any stage can be considered extreme only within a distorted social context.

Because of the challenges Roe v. Wade has presented to attempts by states over the years to limit abortion in any meaningful way (such as after the first trimester, a restriction most Americans favor), the Texas law doesnt criminalize abortion outright. Rather, it allows private citizens to sue providers and others through civil litigation. Successful suits may result in fines hefty enough to put many abortion practices out of business, an innovative workaround.

Deputizing private citizens to enforce the ban is certainly fraught with risk. Some fear the law will turn otherwise uninterested citizens into bounty hunters who chase abortion providers, although one judges temporary restraining order that blocks one group from suing Planned Parenthood shows that checks and balances are in place.

Perhaps the most pivotal part of this law is that it creates a cause of action against anyone who aids or abets the performance or inducement of an abortion. But it doesnt fully define aids or abets.

Thus, the law demands that we ask: What does it really mean to offer aid to someone to whom abortion seems the best option?
This article also appears in the Opinion Today newsletter. You can sign up here to receive it in your inbox each weekday morning.

A new Texas law banning most abortions went into effect last week. The law is notable for how restrictive it is, and for how it will be enforced. Texans are empowered to sue not only abortion providers, but also anyone else who aids and abets someone in obtaining an abortion.

At Times Opinion, weve published a range of responses to the law. Lauren Kelley, a member of the editorial board, warned that the Supreme Courts refusal last week to block the law was yet another sign that Roe v. Wade is likely to be overturned. Columnist Michelle Goldberg wrote about how the law is part of a broader trend of the Republican Party encouraging vigilantism. Mary Tuma, a journalist in Texas, described the states long history of hollowing out womens health care.

And today, were publishing two essays with very different views on a deeper question raised by the legislation: Which set of values should guide our nations laws?
Butterflies seem gentle as they flutter from plant to plant. But some may be more murderous than you imagine. Naturalists recently witnessed several species of milkweed butterfly harassing, subduing and subsequently feeding on milkweed caterpillars, presumably to get their fill of toxic alkaloids inside the larvae.

This behavior was described in an article published Wednesday in the journal Ecology. The authors of the paper say they are unaware of similar behavior being documented among other butterflies, or any insects for that matter, that are so closely related. Although butterflies had previously been observed feeding on grasshoppers that harbor toxic alkaloids, no one had ever documented adult butterflies stealing such compounds from their own kin.

Scientists did not have a word to describe this toxic behavior, so the studys authors came up with one: kleptopharmacophagy.

The discovery was made in December 2019 when two friends traveled to the Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve on the northern part of Indonesias Sulawesi island. Yi-Kai Tea, a graduate student studying ichthyology at the University of Sydney and the Australian Museum Research Institute, and Jonathan Wei Soong, a naturalist from Singapore, share a passion for macro-photography and butterflies and had decided to spend their holiday photographing the reserves stunning array of fluttering insects.
Under the glass sponges soft tissue, a tubular skeleton protects and supports the animal. The core skeleton comprises bundles of needly forms called spicules that are oriented vertically, horizontally and diagonally and fused together in a lattice structure that somewhat resembles a checkerboard. Surrounding this lattice are protruding clockwise and counterclockwise helical ridges that resemble a series of fire escapes winding around the tubular sponge and under its tissue. All together, the ridges look like a maze.

It has this very dense, highly consolidated system, said James Weaver, a senior scientist at Harvard Universitys school of engineering and applied sciences and an author on the new paper. The study was also led by Katia Bertoldi and Matheus Fernandes, researchers at the same school.

Dr. Weaver started studying Euplectella aspergillum in the early 2000s. He first focused on sponge skeletons, investigating their diverse structures and mechanical properties.

For this paper, the researchers studied the sponge from a hydrodynamic perspective: how the fluids acted on and moved around its skeleton.
Just before the pandemic I ambivalently attended a performance of Tina: The Tina Turner Musical. I knew some Tina Turner songs, and I was vaguely aware of her marriage to the abusive Ike Turner. I was only barely acquainted with her global celebrity, and skeptical about the depth a biographical jukebox musical could offer.

Though I had qualms about the show  particularly the depictions of violence  I left the theater feeling ebullient. I sneaked out near the end of what turned out to be essentially a postshow concert, but I hung on to the image of Adrienne Warren, as Turner, onstage.

What resonated with me was her spectacular star power  what most people would call presence. This is always what draws me in to Broadway productions about iconic figures: how an actors impersonation can also be a way to showcase their own star quality.

Whether or not the show can live up to the legend, however, is often a different story.

With the resurrection of Broadway this fall will come another handful of impersonations to test the hypothesis. Starting Nov. 2, we will see Jeanna de Waal as the Princess of Wales in Diana, who, thanks to her style, charisma and, ultimately, tragic death, became a mythic figure.
LONDON  It seems reasonable to expect fireworks from a play called Rockets and Blue Lights, a vivid title for an overstuffed, if intriguing, drama with no shortage of things to say.

Running through Oct. 9 at the National Theater here, Winsome Pinnocks play may require a chart to help track the action: Ten actors play 24 roles. But if the intricate plotting takes a while to flare, the ambition of the piece is welcome throughout. In a theatrical climate defined over the last year by solo or small-cast plays, here is writing that thinks big. It also brings Pinnock back to the National, where the author, now 60, made history in 1994 as the first Black British woman to have a play at that address.

Rockets and Blue Lights was seen briefly in March 2020 at the Royal Exchange Theater in Manchester before the pandemic intervened; a subsequent radio version was adapted for the BBC. The director Miranda Cromwells current production tethers a strong cast to a play in which present and past collide. Pinnocks principal theme is how artists illuminate (or betray) the world around them, and her way in is the work of the English Romantic painter J.M.W. Turner.

The reference in the title is to one of two oil paintings by Turner that were exhibited at the Royal Academy in London in 1840. The other, The Slave Ship, might depict the infamous 1781 Zong massacre, which resulted in the deaths of more than 130 African slaves at sea. (Scholars are divided over the works inspiration.) The same painting is also known by an explanatory alternate title, Slavers Throwing Overboard the Dead and Dying  Typhoon Coming On, and Pinnock traveled to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston to see the picture for herself.
That play was subtitled Conversations During Difficult Times but the difficulty of the coronavirus was yet to come. Two years later, in What Happened?, we find the same characters shuffled into new arrangements. Lucy and May are now in Angers, France, having been stranded by the pandemic at the home of another of Roses former dancers, Suzanne Raphael (Yvonne Woods). Though Lucy could not attend her mothers funeral back in Rhinebeck earlier in the year, the lifting of some restrictions has allowed the rest of the group to fly to France to attend a conference about Roses work at a modern dance center there.

Confusing as it may feel to enter such a complex set of relationships so abruptly  the play begins with David saying, One day Kate got your mom talking  the casts clarity and patience soon pay off. Watching them assemble the story in small memories, like a jigsaw puzzle of the past, I was never less than engaged. For some theatergoers, though, Nelsons extreme discursiveness will feel overstretched; how long do you want to stare at even the loveliest, most industrious ants digging their way through the sand of an ant farm?

Or dancing their way. The movement segments in What Happened?  really a concert within the play  go on too long to sustain the drama of character on which the whole effort depends. Though wittily performed by Bydwell and Sakamoto, the selections from Roses catalog, based on the choreography of Dan Wagoner and realized by the dance consultant Gwyneth Jones, sometimes seemed to have been calibrated not to the plays needs but to that of the lasagna cooking in the onstage oven. The lasagna takes 90 minutes; the play, 110.
Other airlines have announced that they will require flight attendants and pilots to be vaccinated, but few other airlines have committed to banning unvaccinated passengers. Air Canada seems to be the only other airline that is poised to soon begin turning away unvaccinated passengers. By the end of October, the Canadian government will require all commercial airline employees and passengers to be vaccinated. Air Canada endorsed the governments position in August.

Leonard J. Marcus, the co-director of the National Preparedness Leadership Initiative at Harvard University and the director of an initiative focused on public health on flights, said he hoped that other airlines would follow Qantass lead.

I think this would be a bold and courageous step in the right direction, he said. Requiring passenger vaccinations is currently easier in Australia than in other parts of the world, he said, because the country has a uniform system of validating vaccination status, in contrast to places like the United States.

A spokeswoman for Qantas said that the airline would permit people who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons to fly, but the policy for children too young to be eligible for vaccination has not yet been finalized.

Qantas has made vaccination central to its marketing strategy throughout the pandemic. A recent television ad, which has been widely shared, shows Australians longing to travel and then getting vaccinations before heading off on international flights.
The Biden administration on Thursday endorsed an aggressive proposal to limit prices for prescription drugs, calling for the government to negotiate with drug makers on prices and applying those prices not just to Medicare but to all drug purchasers in the country.

The proposal, published as a 29-page white paper from the Department of Health and Human Services, was included a range of recommendations to foster more competition among drugmakers and improve the affordability of drugs for patients enrolled in Medicare.

The administration cannot make such large changes on its own; it amounts to a signal to congressional Democrats. Democratic leaders in Congress have suggested that they hope to regulate prices in some way as part of the $3.5 trillion legislative package now being considered. The House passed a bill with similar provisions in 2019, but senators working on the package have released few policy details as they wrestle with their approach.

Steve Ubl, the C.E.O. of the industry trade group PhRMA, called the policy an existential risk to the industry. Major across-the-board price reductions would result in reduced revenues for drug companies, and could hurt companies ability to spend on research as well as cause smaller companies to close if investors leave the sector, he said. His group and the companies it represents have mobilized to fight such a plan.
According to Political Data, Inc., which provides election data, nearly a third of the electorate had voted as of Thursday morning  the result of pandemic voting rules that sent mail-in ballots to all 22 million active and registered voters in California. More than twice as many Democrats have returned their ballots than Republicans so far  although many Republicans may be waiting to cast their votes in person.

The governor has also struggled to connect with the state's large and growing corps of Latino voters, many of whom have said they are ambivalent about both Mr. Newsom and the Democratic Party. So far, just 20 percent of Latino voters have returned their ballots, compared with 36 percent of white voters.

Mayor Robert Garcia of Long Beach tweeted that he was looking forward to welcoming the president and the governor to his city on Monday. Mr. Garcia is the first Latino and openly gay man to lead the city of nearly half a million people and was tapped last year to speak to the Democratic National Convention.

Seeking to turn out the states massive Democratic base in an off-year special election, Mr. Newsom has portrayed the recall effort as one led by right-wing extremists seeking to seize power in the nations largest liberal stronghold. Luminaries in his camp have included not only nationally known Democrats, but also celebrities such as Katy Perry and George Lopez, who have reached out on their social media accounts.

He has found a rich target in the leading candidate to oppose him, the conservative talk radio host Larry Elder, who has said employers should be able to ask women about their reproductive plans and has vowed to immediately lift all pandemic mandates if he is elected governor.
Los Angeles already has a strict vaccine mandate for teachers and staff members, and the new student mandate will further increase the safety of the classroom. But it is also likely to be more divisive, with far-reaching educational repercussions.

According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, 58 percent of 12- to 18-year-olds living within the districts boundaries have already received at least one dose of a vaccine. But polls show that many parents are hesitant to vaccinate their children against the coronavirus, raising the question of how many families will keep their children home to learn online or transfer them to schools that do not require the shots.

Leaving the classroom again could be debilitating for some students. When virtual learning was widespread last academic year, millions of children fell behind academically; the impact was largest on low-income students and students of color. The Los Angeles Unified student body is 73 percent Latino, 11 percent white, 8 percent Black and 4 percent Asian. Eighty percent of students qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Vaccine hesitancy in Los Angeles exists across a broad range of demographic and ideological groups, from affluent, largely white, liberal parents who oppose a range of mainstream childhood vaccination practices; to conservative activists who have specifically targeted the coronavirus vaccines; to low-income Black and Hispanic families who are wary of the medical establishment.

Nick Melvoin, a Board of Education member who supports the mandate, said that in the hours after news of the proposed resolution was first published, about 60 percent of the emails he received expressed opposition to the mandate, which he noted was most likely a reflection of the oppositions organizing strength.
Senator Amy Klobuchar said Thursday that she had been diagnosed and treated this year for breast cancer, and that her doctors said in August that her treatment had been successful.

At this point my doctors believe that my chances of developing cancer again are no greater than the average person, Ms. Klobuchar, Democrat of Minnesota, wrote in a post on Medium.

Ms. Klobuchar, 61, said she learned in February that she had Stage 1A cancer after doctors at Mayo Clinic found small white spots called calcifications during a routine mammogram.

She said that she underwent various tests and she subsequently had a lumpectomy on the right breast to remove the cancer. In May, she said she completed radiation treatment.
President Biden on Thursday used the full force of his presidency to push two-thirds of American workers to get vaccinated against the coronavirus, reaching into the private sector to mandate that all companies with more than 100 workers require vaccination or weekly testing. Mr. Biden also moved to mandate shots for health care workers, federal contractors and the vast majority of federal workers, who could face disciplinary measures if they refuse

The sweeping actions, which the president announced in a White House speech, are the most expansive actions he has taken to control the pandemic since he assumed the presidency in January, and will affect almost every aspect of American society. They also reflect Mr. Bidens deep frustration with the roughly 80 million Americans who are eligible for the shots but have not been vaccinated.

Were going to protect vaccinated workers from unvaccinated co-workers, Mr. Biden declared from the White House state dining room, with a portrait of Abraham Lincoln looming over his shoulders. Were going to reduce the spread of Covid-19 by increasing the share of the work force that is vaccinated in businesses all across America.

Initially reluctant to enact mandates, Mr. Biden is now moving more aggressively than any president in modern history to require vaccination, experts say.
Over the past few days, Senator Joe Manchin III, Democrat of West Virginia, who had originally suggested he was open to the pick, told the White House that he had also soured on the selection, Democratic aides said.

I knew this confirmation process would be difficult, Mr. Chipman said in a statement, and while ultimately we werent successful, it remains essential that A.T.F. is led by a confirmed director who is accountable to the public and places no special interests before the safety of our children and our communities.

In his comment, Mr. Biden was careful not to call out either senator, whose votes he needs to pass his budget bill and other legislation. While my administration has worked to strengthen law enforcement and crack down on gun crime, he said, Republicans have opposed us at every turn.

But Mr. Chipmans supporters have long been concerned that the White House, preoccupied with cutting a bipartisan infrastructure deal for much of the spring and summer, had not pushed back hard enough against a coordinated effort by the National Rifle Association and other pro-gun organizations to portray the nominee as a radical bent on undermining Second Amendment rights.

We needed 50 Democrats; that didnt happen, so simply blaming Republicans obscures the fact that the gun industrys influence goes far beyond the Republican base and into the Democratic Party, said Igor Volsky, the founder of Guns Down America, a nonprofit advocacy group that has called on Mr. Biden to appoint a national gun violence coordinator. The White House has resisted the move.

What I find disappointing is the president isnt offering a plan of how we go forward from here, Mr. Volsky added. Thats really surprising from a president who said that stopping gun violence was a priority during the campaign.

During a contentious confirmation hearing in May, Republicans on the Senate Judiciary Committee seized on Mr. Chipmans comments about gun owners, including an interview in which he had likened the buying of weapons during the coronavirus pandemic to a zombie apocalypse.
On clemency, for example, the White House supports making clearer that a pardon can count as a thing of value in an illegal bribery scheme and that presidents cannot pardon themselves. But the White House is uncomfortable with a related proposal to require disclosing to Congress internal White House communications and Justice Department case files about clemency recipients.

Administration officials are also said to be concerned about proposals to give Congress logs of White House interactions with the Justice Department, and to bar presidents from firing inspectors general without a good cause.

And amid the possibility that Republicans may regain control of Congress in the 2022 midterm elections, the White House is reportedly skeptical of a proposal to give lawmakers a clearer right to sue the executive branch to enforce its subpoenas. It would also expedite court resolution of such lawsuits and make lower-ranking officials personally liable for paying any court-ordered fines for refusing to comply with a subpoena  even if it is at the presidents direction.

Those changes could render obsolete the norm of resolving interbranch disputes over information through compromise and accommodation, with litigation as a rare last resort. (Mr. Trump flouted that norm, vowing to stonewall all oversight subpoenas and running out the clock in court.)

It remains unclear whether the final bill will include many of the ideas the White House has raised concerns about. In June, Mr. Schiff told MSNBC that House Democrats were getting some pushback from the administration and said he hoped President Biden and his team would see that the priority should be ensuring that the system of checks and balances works.

If that means making sure that Congress can do its oversight, thats what needs to happen, Mr. Schiff added. So I hope we get movement from them, but Im determined to push forward regardless.
OZARK, Mo.  Brad Cole is a fiery defender of the Second Amendment, a set-jawed lawman with a lacquered alligator head on his desk, a Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum on his hip and a signed picture of himself with former President Donald J. Trump on his office wall.

Sheriff Cole, of Christian County, considers himself part of the constitutional sheriff movement, which contends that the federal government is subordinate to local authorities in most law-enforcement matters. Yet this year he found himself in the unusual position of pushing back against Republican state lawmakers ramming through a bill to punish local departments for collaborating with federal authorities on gun cases deemed to be in violation of Second Amendment rights.

Anytime you take away a tool from us to do our job and protect the people we serve, well, Im going to have a huge problem with that, said Sheriff Cole, a Republican who worked with several other sheriffs from deep-red southern Missouri to modify the bill before it passed in May on a party-line vote.

Its just a terribly written law, he said.

Even with the changes, the Second Amendment Preservation Act represents a challenge to federal authority that Biden administration officials and other critics see as a clear-cut violation of the Constitutions supremacy clause, which prohibits states from passing laws that nullify federal statutes.
WASHINGTON  Moscows intelligence services have influence over Russian criminal ransomware groups and broad insight into their activities, but they do not control the organizations targets, according to a report released on Thursday.

Some American officials said there had been a lull, at least for now, in major ransomware attacks against high-profile American critical infrastructure that were attributed to Russian criminal groups  a pause that reflects Moscows ability to partly check the criminal networks operating in the country.

But a ransomware group that faded away after attacks over the summer, REvil, appears to have returned this week to the dark web and reactivated a portal victims use to make payments.

While attacks have fallen off, it's a fair bet that the criminal networks are looking for signals from the Russian government about how they can restart their attacks, said Chris Inglis, the national cyberdirector.
Ms. Richards noted that millions of women in Texas lost the right to make their own decisions about their pregnancy with the passage of the law.

But proponents of the law see it as necessary to preserve the ability of state legislatures to save lives, long a central piece of the conservative platform. The fact on the ground is that there are now hearts beating in Texas that would have been stopped had this law been prevented from going into effect, said Roger Severino, a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and a former Trump administration official who advocates on behalf of social conservative causes.

The Justice Department lawsuit came days after the Supreme Court refused, in a 5-to-4 decision, to block the Texas legislation, which bans all abortions after about six weeks of pregnancy and makes no exceptions for pregnancies that are the result of rape or incest.

The court had stressed that it was not ruling on the constitutionality of the Texas law. But the way the law was written  allowing anyone, regardless of whether they have any connection to an abortion, standing to sue those who perform or otherwise aid in the procedure  could make it difficult to challenge in court.

That set up a major shift in the fight over abortion rights and paved a path for other states to limit access to abortion. The law also raised alarms that abortion providers would face myriad lawsuits brought by private citizens.

The Justice Department filed its lawsuit in the Western District of Texas, based in Austin. No matter how the district court rules, both sides in the lawsuit are motivated to appeal, which would send the case to the conservative-leaning Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. The Texas law could come before the Supreme Court again in several months.

It is not a foregone conclusion that the Supreme Court would again allow the Texas law to stand, said Laurence H. Tribe, a Harvard Law professor and leading liberal constitutional scholar.
Banished from social media and deprived of his national platform, former President Donald J. Trump has been clamoring for attention and trying to exploit the series of foreign and domestic crises that are testing the Biden administration.

This week has been one of his most frenetic periods yet.

As Mr. Trump seeks to pounce on President Bidens handling of the military withdrawal in Afghanistan, he has highlighted the deaths of American service members in an attack at the Kabul airport, going so far as to contact several family members of those killed, The Washington Post reported.

At the same time, Mr. Trump undercut his patriotic solemnity with the announcement that he would spend the evening of the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks providing commentary at a boxing match at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. (Mr. Trumps team has not yet revealed plans to commemorate the anniversary in any other way.)

And Mr. Trump continued to stoke the countrys racial divisions, issuing an almost ostentatiously provocative statement denouncing the removal on Wednesday of a towering statue of Robert E. Lee, the Confederate general, in Richmond, Va.
They were the ones calling for it, said Andrew Wehrman, an associate professor of history at Central Michigan University who studies the politics of medicine in the colonial and revolutionary eras. Theres no record that I have seen  and Ive looked  of any soldier turning it down, protesting it.

Buoyed by the success of the mandate, Washington wrote to his brother in June 1777 that he was upset by a Virginia law restricting inoculations. I would rather move for a Law to compell the Masters of Families to inoculate every Child born within a certain limitted time under severe Penalties, he wrote.

Over the next century, many local governments did exactly that. Professor Wehrman this week tweeted an example of what, in an interview, he said was a ubiquitous phenomenon: The health board in Urbana, Ohio, Jordans hometown, enacted a requirement in 1867 that in any future epidemic, the heads of families must see that all the members of their families have been vaccinated.

But by the end of the 1800s, opposition was louder and more widespread. Some states, particularly in the West, introduced laws prohibiting vaccine mandates. Others narrowly passed mandates after intense debate.

The reasons for resistance were myriad: Some Americans opposed mandates on the grounds of personal liberty; some because they believed lawmakers were in cahoots with vaccine makers; and some because of safety concerns that were, to be fair, more grounded in reality than the modern equivalent. Vaccines then were not regulated the way they are now, and there were documented cases of doses contaminated with tetanus.

The governments response resembled what, today, are wild conspiracy theories. Contrary to the assertions of some on the far right, the Biden administration has never suggested going door to door to force people to take coronavirus vaccines. But in the 1890s and 1900s, that actually happened: Squads of men would enter peoples homes in the middle of the night, breaking down doors if necessary, to inject people with smallpox vaccines.

Legally speaking, the Supreme Court resolved the issue of mandatory vaccinations in 1905, ruling 7-2 in Jacobson v. Massachusetts that they were constitutional.
The decision by some rich nations to offer booster shots will hinder coronavirus vaccine access for low-income countries, the director of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Thursday, arguing there is no conclusive evidence healthy people who are not immunocompromised need an extra shot.

In wealthy countries  including Germany, France, Israel and the United States  there has been growing momentum to offer additional doses to certain vulnerable populations, including older citizens, and to the general public.

The problem we have with the third doses is that we have not seen enough science behind them, the director, Dr. John Nkengasong, said in an online news conference with journalists on Thursday. It is really still confusing to me as to why we are moving toward a vast recommendation for a booster dose.

By offering booster shots, he added, we will surely be gambling.

The World Health Organization has warned that booster shots could divert vaccine supplies from countries with largely unvaccinated populations. On Wednesday, the agency asked wealthy countries to hold off on administering booster shots for healthy patients until at least the end of the year as a way of enabling every country to vaccinate at least 40 percent of their populations.
President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil is temporarily banning social media companies from removing certain content, including his claims that the only way hell lose next years elections is if the vote is rigged  one of the most significant steps by a democratically elected leader to control what can be said on the internet.

The new social media rules, issued this week and effective immediately, appear to be the first time a national government has stopped internet companies from taking down content that violates their rules, according to internet law experts and officials at tech companies. And they come at a precarious moment for Brazil.

Mr. Bolsonaro has used social media as a megaphone to build his political movement and make it to the presidents office. Now, with polls showing he would lose the presidential elections if they were held today, he is using sites like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to try to undermine the legitimacy of the vote, following the playbook of his close ally, former President Donald J. Trump. On Tuesday, Mr. Bolsonaro repeated his claims about the election to thousands of supporters in two cities as part of nationwide demonstrations on Brazils Independence Day.

Under the new policy, tech companies can remove posts only if they involve certain topics outlined in the measure, such as nudity, drugs and violence, or if they encourage crime or violate copyrights; to take down others, they must get a court order. That suggests that, in Brazil, tech companies could easily remove a nude photo, but not lies about the coronavirus. The pandemic has been a major topic of disinformation under Mr. Bolsonaro, with Facebook, Twitter and YouTube all having removed videos from him that pushed unproven drugs as coronavirus cures.
The story of abortion rights in the 21st century can be seen in two world-shaking developments this past week.

In the first, the U.S. Supreme Court effectively upheld drastic new abortion restrictions in Texas. A few days later, Mexicos high court paved the way for nationwide legalization.

It may be tempting to see Mexicos ruling as the more surprising, catapulting the worlds second most populous Catholic country on a deeply contentious social matter.

But experts say it is the United States that stands out. Since 2000, 31 countries, many just as pious as Mexico, have expanded access to abortion. Only three have rolled it back: Nicaragua, Poland and the United States.
At a news conference earlier in the day at the airport, Dr. Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani, a Qatari special envoy, said the passengers would head to their final destinations after reaching Qatar. He called the resumption of flights from Kabul a historic day in the history of Afghanistan, and said another passenger flight was expected to depart on Friday.

The Taliban has blamed the Americans for delays in letting people fly out, and said that as U.S. forces left last week, they rendered the radar and other equipment at the Kabul airport inoperable. Engineers from Qatar, alongside workers from Turkey, have been working to repair the damage and to come up with a security protocol to enable international passenger flights to resume.

On Thursday, Zabihullah Mujahid, the Talibans deputy information and culture minister, thanked Qatar for its assistance in getting the airport running and flying in 50 tons of aid on Thursday morning. He said that the reopening was an opportunity to call on all Muslim and international countries to lend a helping hand to the Afghan people and start delivering humanitarian aid.

The Taliban agreed to allowed Qatar to fly the American citizens out after being pressed by the longtime U.S. envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, and after Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken met with Qatars leaders this week in Doha, according to a U.S. official familiar with the negotiations, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

A State Department spokesman, Ned Price, said that more than 30 American citizens and green card holders were invited to get on the flight, but that some did not do so, torn over being separated from their extended families or experiencing medical issues that prevented immediate travel. He said officials were cross referencing travel documents and flight manifests before releasing a precise total.
For years, Li Guangman, a retired Chinese newspaper editor, wrote in obscurity, firing off attack after attack at chic celebrities and celebrated tycoons whom he accused of betraying the sturdy socialist values of Mao. Few outside of Chinas fervent but narrow world of Maoist leftists read them.

Until now.

Mr. Li leapt to prominence recently after an essay he wrote railing at celebrity culture and misbehaving corporations ricocheted across Chinas internet, spreading on far-left-wing websites and then on at least five major Communist Party-run news websites, including the Peoples Daily, suggesting support from at least some officials.

The official boost for Mr. Lis polemic startled Chinese political and business circles when doubt had already been rising about the growing role of the Communist Party in the economy. Among some, the essay left the impression that the party could intensify its crackdown on private corporations, tighten its grip on culture and hound the rich. Some critics pointed ominously to echoes of Maos Cultural Revolution of the 1960s, which had also emerged from attacks on the cultural elite by polemicists who were previously little known.
SEOUL  North Koreas leader, Kim Jong-un, attended a national predawn military parade on Thursday, but skipped the opportunity to raise tensions with the United States through a fiery speech or the display of long-range ballistic missiles.

The parade included military reservists, police officers, and factory and health workers, and was a departure from the nighttime military parades held last October and in January. Those parades featured what appeared to be newly developed intercontinental and submarine-launched ballistic missiles, indicating that the North was ramping up its weapons programs while nuclear disarmament negotiations with Washington remain stalled.

At one of the earlier parades, Mr. Kim also delivered a speech vowing to boost his countrys nuclear arsenal.

When recent commercial satellite imagery revealed preparations for the military parade on Thursday in Pyongyang, marking the governments 73rd anniversary, outside officials waited to see what new message Mr. Kim might deliver or what new weapons he might debut. But the parade appeared to be a much more modest affair, as Mr. Kim  with a tan Western-style suit draped over his visibly thinner frame  used the event to boost the countrys morale.
As the region has grappled with deadly waves of the virus, most schools have remained shut for a second year or only partially reopened. In theory, much of the education shifted to remote learning, but in a region with one of the lowest household rates of internet connectivity, a large number have been deprived altogether. Sri Lanka and the Maldives are the only countries in the region where at least half of households have internet access.

Efforts to bridge the access divide, using platforms such as TV or radio or printed material to reach students, had only partially helped.

UNICEF said its assessments showed that across six states in India, 80 percent of children ages 14 to 18 had reported lower levels of learning when studying remotely than when they were physically in school. That number was 69 percent for primary school students in Sri Lanka, it said. The impact of school closures was greater on girls and on children from poorer communities and those with disabilities, the agency said.

In India, where schools in some states remain closed and those in others have partially reopened only recently, nearly half of the students between ages 6 and 13 reported not using any type of remote learning during school closures, UNICEF said. In Pakistan, a quarter of the younger children couldnt use any devices to support remote learning. Earlier assessments by UNICEF had shown that in Nepal only three out of 10 children had access to any device for remote learning.

And in many cases, UNICEF officials said, the access did not translate to usage  either because one device was shared by many in the family, because textbooks suited for home learning and other necessary materials werent supplied, or because some communities never learned what resources were available. Many students did not have daily contact with teachers, especially those enrolled in public schools, the data showed.

Sameer Yasir contributed reporting.
A fire at a temporary coronavirus hospital in North Macedonia has left at least 14 people dead, the countrys health minister said, the latest in a series of blazes at hospitals around the world where people with Covid-19 were being treated.

All of the 14 were patients, and 12 others being treated at the center were injured in the fire, on Wednesday evening, the countrys health minister, Venko Filipce, said. No health workers were reported injured, but the cause of the fire has not been determined in what Mr. Filipce described as a terrible accident.

The fire was at a temporary hospital in Tetovo, in the countrys northwest, and began at around 9 p.m. It was extinguished within 45 minutes, but that was long enough for the flames to spread quickly through the building, one fire official told a local news outlet.

Footage from the scene showed a plume of black smoke rising as flames engulfed the hospital. Videos aired on local news stations showed fire trucks at the scene and wheelchairs scattered around the charred shell of the structure, a one-story modular building.
A fire at a temporary hospital where coronavirus patients were being treated in North Macedonia has left at least 14 people dead, the countrys health minister said.

All 14 were patients, and 12 others being treated at the center suffered injuries in the fire that broke out Wednesday evening, the countrys health minister, Venko Filipce, said. No health workers were reported injured what Mr. Filipce described as a terrible accident.

The fire, which began at around 9 p.m. at a mobile hospital in Tetovo, in the countrys northwest, was extinguished within 45 minutes, but it had spread quickly through the building, one fire official told a local news outlet.

Footage from the scene showed a plume of black smoke rising as flames engulfed the hospital. Videos aired later on local news showed fire trucks at the scene and wheelchairs scattered around the charred shell of the structure, a one-story modular building.
He has been photographed making the chancellors hallmark diamond-shaped hand gesture  the Merkel rhombus  and used the female form of the German word for chancellor on a campaign poster to convince Germans that he could continue Ms. Merkels work even though he is a man.

The symbolism isnt subtle, but it is working  so well in fact that the chancellor herself has felt compelled to push back on it  most recently in what might be her last speech in the Bundestag.

Mr. Gullner, the pollster, said at least part of the recent surge in support for the Social Democrats comes from Merkel voters who are not happy with her partys candidate, Armin Laschet, a conservative state governor who has repeatedly fumbled on the campaign trail.

There is no real Scholz enthusiasm in Germany, said Ms. Hoffmann. His success is due primarily to the weakness of the other candidates.

Unlike his rivals, Mr. Scholz hasnt put a foot wrong in the campaign. He takes few risks and is controlled to the point that Germans have dubbed him the Scholz-o-mat  or Scholz machine.

Sticking to his message of stability has also made it harder for his opponents to attack him on past blunders, although some have tried. As mayor of Hamburg he took private meetings with a banker seeking a million euro tax deferment, an episode that has become part of a state investigation, and it was on his watch as finance minister that the fraudulent German fintech company Wirecard imploded.

But this has barely surfaced in the campaign. Instead, Mr. Scholzs popularity has continued to rise.
MOSCOW  President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia threw his embattled, authoritarian ally in Belarus a fresh lifeline on Thursday, pledging cheap natural gas and more than $600 million in new loans as part of a push to more closely integrate the post-Soviet neighbors.

Mr. Putin and President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko of Belarus met in person for the sixth time in the past year, hammering out a long-delayed integration plan that some analysts had speculated could bring the two countries to the brink of a full-blown merger.

Late Thursday evening at the Kremlin, the two leaders finally announced the contours of such a plan, but one that focused on aligning the two countries economies while leaving aside thornier political questions.

We must first create an economic base, an economic foundation, in order to move forward, including on the political track, Mr. Putin said.
Two weeks ago, Ankur and Priyanka Bordia unpacked their familys eight suitcases for the fourth time in 40 days.

Are we in Hong Kong yet? asked their children, ages 1 and 3.

No, were in Qatar, Mr. Bordia replied.

For almost a year, the Bordias have been trying to return to Hong Kong, their home of 13 years, from India, where they traveled early in the pandemic. As the Chinese territory has continually changed which countries visitors can arrive from, the familys journey has become a game of transoceanic Whac-A-Mole, a vivid example of how ever-shifting international travel rules have upended lives worldwide.

When The New York Times spoke with the family last month, they were stranded in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates, which Hong Kong had moved into a high-risk category days before their flight home, citing a rise in coronavirus cases there.
This applies if defendants lose on any claim, even if they win overall. If someone challenges a law on five grounds, and the courts agree on four and strike the law down, the defendants lawyers can still be liable for the plaintiffs legal fees because the court rejected the fifth.

The bill tries to dictate what judges can do.

Section 171.209 (Pages 9-11): A defendant against whom an action is brought under Section 171.208 does not have standing to assert the rights of women seeking an abortion as a defense to liability under that section unless the United States Supreme Court holds that the courts of this state must confer standing on that defendant to assert the third-party rights of women seeking an abortion in state court as a matter of federal constitutional law; or the defendant has standing to assert the rights of women seeking an abortion under the tests for third-party standing established by the United States Supreme Court. A defendant  may assert an affirmative defense to liability under this section if the defendant has standing to assert the third-party rights of a woman or group of women seeking an abortion  and the defendant demonstrates that the relief sought by the claimant will impose an undue burden on that woman or that group of women seeking an abortion. A court may not find an undue burden  unless the defendant introduces evidence proving that an award of relief will prevent a woman or a group of women from obtaining an abortion; or an award of relief will place a substantial obstacle in the path of a woman or a group of women who are seeking an abortion. A defendant may not establish an undue burden  by merely demonstrating that an award of relief will prevent women from obtaining support or assistance, financial or otherwise, from others in their effort to obtain an abortion; or arguing or attempting to demonstrate that an award of relief against other defendants or other potential defendants will impose an undue burden on women seeking an abortion. The affirmative defense  is not available if the United States Supreme Court overrules Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973) or Planned Parenthood v. Casey, 505 U.S. 833 (1992), regardless of whether the conduct on which the cause of action is based  occurred before the Supreme Court overruled either of those decisions.

Building methodically on the legal insulation created through S.B. 8s enforcement mechanism, these sections seek to prevent people sued under the law from challenging its constitutionality  and, if the courts do let them challenge it, to dictate how those courts interpret Supreme Court precedent.

The undue burden language is significant because that is the standard by which federal courts evaluate abortion restrictions under Planned Parenthood v. Casey, the 1992 ruling that affirmed Roe v. Wade. According to Casey, a restriction is impermissible if its purpose or effect is to place a substantial obstacle in the path of a woman seeking an abortion before the fetus attains viability.

Texas legislators are trying to set the terms of interpreting this standard, declaring that judges may not find an undue burden unless defendants prove specific facts.

The law also tries to limit who can sue by asserting that only the Supreme Court can grant standing to people whom Texas believes lack it. And it says that if the Supreme Court overturns Roe or Casey, people sued under S.B. 8 may no longer defend themselves based on abortion rights principles, even if they are sued in connection with an abortion performed while Roe and Casey were in effect.

If part of the law falls, the rest stands.

Section 171.212 (Pages 12-14): All constitutionally valid applications of this chapter shall be severed from any applications that a court finds to be invalid, leaving the valid applications in force  Even if a reviewing court finds a provision of this chapter to impose an undue burden in a large or substantial fraction of relevant cases, the applications that do not present an undue burden shall be severed  If any court declares or finds a provision of this chapter facially unconstitutional, when discrete applications of that provision can be enforced against a person, group of persons, or circumstances without violating the United States Constitution and Texas Constitution, those applications shall be severed  If any provision of this chapter is found by any court to be unconstitutionally vague, then the applications of that provision that do not present constitutional vagueness problems shall be severed and remain in force. No court may decline to enforce the severability requirements of Subsections (a), (b), (b-1), (c), and (d) on the ground that severance would rewrite the statute or involve the court in legislative or lawmaking activity.

Severability is a common principle that protects the remainder of a law if parts are found unconstitutional or unenforceable. But S.B. 8 goes into uncommon detail, taking nearly 600 words to lay out ways in which parts of the law could be found unconstitutional and emphasizing severability with respect to each one.

S.B. 8s severability section is unusually long and argumentative, Professor Ziegler said, and is meant to ensure that courts treat any allowable provision as severable even if the law as a whole would not seem to make sense without the excised provision.
Rhodes, a small liberal arts college, estimated that three-quarters of its employees were vaccinated.

Some employers have had workers chip in for the costs of coronavirus testing. MGM Resorts, which owns many hotels and casinos in Las Vegas, was charging a $15 co-pay for the testing at an on-site clinic for unvaccinated workers. Workers had the option to be tested at an outside provider.

Many states and cities still have free coronavirus testing sites that they started earlier in the pandemic. Long Beach, Calif., was requiring testing for unvaccinated city workers. In a statement to The Times in late July, the city said that workers would have the option to do their mandated testing for free at the Long Beach Health Department.

But many Americans also get tests at doctors offices and pharmacies, which will typically bill patients and their insurance for the service.

These disparate approaches could provide a menu of options for many workplaces that fall under the new federal rule, which applies to companies with more than 100 employees. The Biden administration has directed the Department of Labor to draft a rule detailing the new mandate.

Federal law requires insurers to fully cover coronavirus tests ordered by health care providers, meaning the doctor cannot apply a deductible or co-payment to the service. Rules written by the Trump administration, and continued into the Biden administration, excluded routine workplace testing from that requirement.

In practice, insurers do often end up covering employer-mandated tests  its hard to tell from a doctors bill whether a workplace ordered the care  but they could start reviewing cases of patients who suddenly have claims every week for the same service.
Today

Sunshine to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High 81F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low around 70F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.

Tomorrow

Overcast. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 78F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Nicolas Gentile, a 37-year-old fan of Tolkiens fantasy, decided he wanted more than just to read about the life of his favorite characters, the hobbits, so he started living as a real-life hobbit himself.

A pastry chef by training, Nicolas Gentile grew up reading J.R.R. Tolkiens books and watching the popular Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movie trilogies. He had always been a fan of fantasy literature, movies, and games, but it was Middle Earth that captured his imagination the most. Only at one point, reading about and imagining the world and characters he loved wasnt enough anymore. Gentile was tired of experiencing the adventures of others and decided that he could be a character in his very own real-life adventure, so he decided to start living as a hobbit.

Photo: Nicolas Gentile

Some time ago, I realized that books and films were no longer enough for me to satisfy my passion for the fantasy genre and, in particular, for the Lord of the Rings saga, Nicolas Gentile told The Guardian. I was still reading about the lives of other people. I decided that I wanted to live my hobbit life to the fullest.

In 2018, Nicolas bought two hectares of land in the hill-covered countryside of Abruzzo, in central Italy, and started building his own hobbit burrow. He and his family have been living there ever since, dressed as hobbits, dancing singing, and preparing local dishes. Theyve been having so much fun that the real-life hobbit now wants to expand his little shire and attract other like-minded people.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by MyHobbitLife (@_myhobbitlife_)

The 37-year-old didnt disclose how much his cozy hobbit house and the land around it cost him, but he did say he spent almost all of his life savings on them. Now he wants to crowdfund approximately $1.7 million in order to build a full-size hobbit village called the Gentile County.

This project does not aim to make a profit, Gentile told Insider Magazine. If I had wanted to get rich, I would have invested in bitcoin! All I want is to meet people like me, who have the same magic in their eyes and a love for the simple things in life, who enjoy dinner with friends and an adventure in the woods now and then.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by MyHobbitLife (@_myhobbitlife_)

Gentile recently made news headlines after re-enacting Frodos epic journey to destroy The One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom, where it had been forged. Only in real life, he and several other Tolkien fans embarked on a 180-mile journey to Mount Vesuvius, to throw in a replica of the ring. Still, it was a memorable journey that neither he nor his companions will ever forget.

We walked almost 180 miles of mountains and woods, rivers and ancient cities, and got lost in the mountains. We also met fantastic people who helped us until we got to Vesuvius, our Mount Doom, where I threw the Ring in, Nicolas said.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by MyHobbitLife (@_myhobbitlife_)

The Italian real-life hobbit documents his life in his very own hobbit shire on Instagram, where he regularly posts photos and videos for other fans of Tolkiens fantasy universe.
The greatest barrier for integration in Colombia concerns public opinion on migration and a risk that a significant part of the population might reject migration to the country. After analyzing international experiences and academic studies as well as working directly with communities, we have identified three guiding communication strategies to help strengthen public support for newly arrived migrants:

Colombia decided to welcome and integrate Venezuelan migrants under the premise that it is best to include migrants in its public policies instead of creating new policies specifically for them . The most complex challenge in doing so is to strengthen the capacities of the State and the society to include this new population, which implies the implementation of deep-rooted institutional adjustments in its day to day operations.

Colombia has been a country of origin for migrants in its recent history, but in the last 5 years, it has received more than 1.7 million Venezuelan citizens. Additionally, approximately 600,000 Colombians who lived in Venezuela have returned. Against this background, immigration has become a new historic challenge for the country.

However, the rejection of migrants from the Clombian society has remained stable over the last two years. The relationship between poverty, security and the supposed passive attitude of migrants has created a series of stereotypes and prejudices that represent a difficult barrier to overcome in terms of integration.

When it comes to communication about migration, it is almost instinctive to focus the conversation on migrants themselves. Colombia has not beent immune to this trend. In the past, narratives around the phenomenon of migration have mainly focused on the vulnerability of the millions of people who have crossed the border, in order to encourage a response of solidarity from Colombian society.
09/09/2021 - Bandar Seri Begawan - ASEAN and the OECD launched the OECD Competition Assessment Reviews: Logistics Sector in ASEAN and the OECD Competitive Neutrality Reviews: Small-Package Delivery Services in ASEAN reports at the ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting today.

The reports identified legislative and regulatory issues in the blocs logistics services sector that would hinder it from reaching its full potential. The reports provided robust, pragmatic, non-binding policy recommendations to ASEAN governments to help the industry boost overall growth and expedite its recovery from the negative economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The GDP of ASEAN has almost doubled since 2005. Its growing middle class now forms a large potential group of consumers. Yet further growth and greater prosperity are constrained by regulatory obstacles that impede competition in its logistics industry, reducing efficiency, driving up costs for businesses and not maximising consumers welfare, and hampering regional and international trade.

OECDs research and analysis, supported by the UK Governments ASEAN Economic Reform Programme, concluded that practical, low-cost policies recommended to improve the regulation of ASEANs logistics industry will empower existing industry participants and encourage new entrants to identify and take advantage of fresh opportunities and the resulting market efficiencies. In turn, this would benefit businesses and consumers, and ultimately accelerate growth and development across the blocs economies.

Engine of growth

Thanks to globalisation and free trade, ASEANs prosperity has grown substantially, in which its logistics sector played a major role. The sector now accounts for approximately 5% of the blocs GDP and employment, providing jobs for around 17 million people.

In noting the importance of the logistics services sector to the economies of the ASEAN Member States (AMS) and the wider region, the Secretary-General of ASEAN Dato Lim Jock Hoi, said in his opening remarks, "ASEANs commitment towards a seamlessly integrated ASEAN, remains as strong as ever. The service industries are the main driver of growth, accounting for approximately 50% of ASEANs GDP in 2019. The logistics sector was the second-biggest contributor to services output, accounting for approximately 24% of all such trade in ASEAN. It is therefore hard, not to overemphasize, the importance of the logistics sector to ASEAN Member States, and to the wider regional economy.

Economic opportunities

In some ASEAN Member States, logistics costs account for up to 20% of the price of finished goods, almost double the global average. This is a de facto levy on consumers and businesses alike that could be reduced by addressing obstacles to competition in supply chains.

Rethinking regulations governing foreign direct investment in the logistics sector would help member states grow their economies. It has been estimated that reducing barriers to trade and FDI restrictions to the global average could deliver a boost to GDP of up to 17% over the medium to long term.

Additionally, pro-competitive policies have a gender dimension. Some studies estimated that the removal of gender bias in the economy, including logistics, may increase GDP in the region by up to 30%.

If a number of the competition restrictions identified by the OECD in ASEANs logistics industry were lifted, the blocs economies could be better off by more than USD 4.5 billion annually. This is a very conservative estimate as it does not take into account spill-over effects such as increased employment, lower barriers to market entry for small and medium-sized enterprises and improved cross-border trade.

Policy proposals

OECD Competition Assessment Reviews: Logistics Sector in ASEAN and OECD Competitive Neutrality Reviews: Small-Package Delivery Services in ASEAN are the culmination of three years of independent research by OECD on regulatory and legislative obstacles to competition in the logistics industries of all 10 ASEAN Member States which was facilitated by the ASEAN Secretariat.

In the course of its research, the OECD analysed more than 700 pieces of legislation across the bloc, met with more than 280 ASEAN stakeholders, and cooperated closely with many public stakeholders in the region. The reports propose hundreds of recommendations to remove obstacles to competition in the logistics business, level the industry playing field to drive growth and employment, and expedite ASEANs exit from the economic hardship brought upon it by the COVID crisis.

Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the OECD, said, As we seek to optimise the strength and the quality of the recovery, greater openness and pro-competitive reforms will be a crucial element to stimulate the growth of new businesses and jobs, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, which account for almost 90% of all enterprises across the whole bloc and nearly half of all employment.

Fostering competition

The OECD Competition Assessment Reviews: Logistics Sector in ASEAN report assessed the impact of regulation on competition in the sector. It covers five main subsectors of the logistics market: freight transportation, including transport by road, inland waterway and maritime; freight forwarding; warehousing; small-package delivery services; and value-added services.

Meanwhile, the OECD Competitive Neutrality Reviews: Small-Package Delivery Services in ASEAN report examined the effects of state-owned enterprises on competition in the blocs small-package delivery market. This market segment is a critical part of the logistics industry due to its role in the rapid expansion of e-commerce, whose growth has been dramatically accelerated by COVID-19.

Dato Dr. Amin Liew Abdullah, Chair of the AEM Meeting and Minister at the Prime Ministers Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II, Brunei Darussalam said, While the project started in 2018, the policy recommendations have taken into account the COVID-crisis to remain relevant to contribute to structural and regulatory shortcomings, which can help ASEAN economies resume sustainable growth and job creation by enhancing competitiveness, encouraging investment and stimulating productivity in the logistics sector, with economy-wide effects and consumer benefits.

He further added that the current economic and pandemic crisis confronting ASEAN and the world has brought on the need to reset competition policy and its implementation to suit the current economic and social context. Competition policy and law cannot work in isolation from other public policies and must be complemented by other related industrial policies, with robust implementation to support a competitive business environment.

The two reports are part of the OECDs Fostering Competition in ASEAN project. The project, a partnership between the OECD and ASEAN, supported by the UK Governments ASEAN Economic Reform Programme. It reviewed regulatory constraints on competition in all 10 ASEAN Member States to identify regulations that hinder the efficient functioning of markets and may unlevel the playing field to the disadvantage of businesses and consumers.

Greg Hands, Minister for Trade and Policy, represented the UK Government in the meeting.

He said, Total trade between the UK and ASEAN nations was worth 33.8 billion in 2020, making ASEAN equivalent to the 4th largest non-EU trading partner for the UK. Now, with our new ASEAN Dialogue Partner Status, we are even more committed to deepening ties with member countries, supporting jobs and promoting inclusive economic growth. Enhancing competition and promoting a level playing field for businesses is a priority for the UK government, and the reports launched today will make a valuable contribution towards supporting fairer competition and boosting international trade.

For more information, journalists should contact the OECD Media Office (+ 33 1 45 24 97 00).

Working with over 100 countries, the OECD is a global policy forum that promotes policies to preserve individual liberty and improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world

Related Documents
A large number of massive wind turbines are being planned for construction on the bogs of West Offaly, despite the objection of many locals.

An Bord Pleanala said it has given a ten year permission for a wind farm consisting of 21 massive wind turbines at Derrinlough and other townlands in Offaly.

The Derrinlough 21 turbine wind farm (with blade tip heights of 185 metres) will be arranged in two clusters across two bog sites, Clongawny Bog to the west of the N62 and Drinagh Bog to the east; both are part of the Boora peat production bog group in Co. Offaly.

Approximately 29.3 km of access road will be constructed within the site including the upgrade of 450m of existing access road.

The news comes hot on the heels of announcement that Bord na Mona is planning to proceed with building 17 huge turbines in the historic area of Lemanaghan despite very strong opposition to the project.

In a statement issued to The Midland Tribune this week, the Lemanaghan Conservation and Heritage Group said it's deeply disappointed with the recommendations in Chief Executive (of Offaly County Council) Anna Marie Delaney's Report on the Material Alteration Consultation Stage.

There were over 2,300 submissions, commented the Lemanaghan Group's statement, asking for Lemanaghan Bog to be removed as an area open to consideration for wind energy. This historic number of submissions demonstrated clearly that the opinion of the public should not be brushed under the carpet.

The group firmly believes that their right to fair, open and transparent public consultation was severely hindered by mistakes made by Offaly County Council.

They point out that in phase 1 and phase 2 of the public consultation process on the Draft County Development Plan, the Lemanaghan site, a 1250ha peatland site, was not mentioned at all in the section of the plan devoted to the Proposed Offaly Wind Energy Strategy.

Area 5, the Group points out, was described as the area 'North West of Ferbane & West of Doon', which of course does not navigate to Lemanaghan. The description was, geographically, completely incorrect during phase 1 and 2 of the public consultation process.

The map associated with the document has little detail, no road markings, etc, to help the general public to understand the zoning.

In the age of inclusion, it is paramount that each person has the opportunity to understand the document, and that both the map and the text is of a high standard. In the public consultation phases neither the text nor the maps were adequate.

Also, many people find maps difficult to navigate and would rely solely on text descriptors.

The Group pointed out that the people of Lemanaghan did not make submissions at earlier rounds of public consultation, because the description of Area 5 did not navigate to Lemanaghan.

During the 3rd phase of the public consultation process, the Group continued, the text in the Draft County Development plan changed to read, 'Area generally west of Doon and North East of Ferbane.' At this stage we understood this to be Lemanaghan Bog and in excess of 2,300 submissions were made.

The feeling locally is that of frustration, as we did not have an opportunity earlier to make submissions as we did not know the area was zoned for wind energy.

The Wind Energy Strategy, along with the rest of the plan, had already been made available for two rounds of public consultation but we did not seek changes at that time, because we believed Lemanaghan was not part of the zoning, as the description clearly stated North West of Ferbane & West of Doon, which is not Lemanaghan.

The fact that the council can make a mistake this big, that impacts so many people is unacceptable. Furthermore, when the draft county development plan was changed, to read 'Area generally west of Doon and North East of Ferbane' the council accepted 2,300 submissions, but are now saying that submissions cannot be taken into consideration because they are not 'minor' in nature. If this is the case, then we need to go back to phase 1 public consultation and allow the public to make submissions of a major nature because our right to public consultation was completely compromised. Clearly big mistakes were made here.

It also raises the question of what constitutes a minor change at this stage of the plan?

Acting on a requirement from the Office of the Planning Regulator (OPR) to indicate how the Offaly County Development Plan 2021-2027 will contribute to realising overall national targets on renewable energy and climate change mitigation, a target of 466.3MW from wind energy has been recommended by the Council's Chief Executive Anna Marie Delaney. Could this be viewed as a major change at this stage of the draft county development plan? Page 8 of the Draft County Development Plan states that 'In line with the Climate Action Plan 2019, Ireland aims to increase reliance on renewables from 30% to 70% adding up to 8.2 GW of renewable onshore wind energy capacity by 2030. Using Offaly's share of the national population from Census 2016, 1.63% as a proxy, as a minimum County Offaly is required to generate 133.66 MW of renewable energy by 2030.

A jump from 133.66MW to 466.3MW seems to be a major adjustment to the draft CDP. If this is allowed to be changed, then why cant the will of 2,300+ people be taken into account? Or what is the point in a public consultation process if the strong public perception is not valued.

The people of Lemanaghan want a firm statement in the county development plan that this area is off limits for wind energy and that 17 massive wind turbines won't be erected in the area.
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NEW YORK (AP)  A former nurse who co-founded and once ran the cult-like NXIVM group, where prosecutors say women were brainwashed, branded like animals and coerced into sex, was sentenced Wednesday to 42 months in prison but won't be locked up until January.

Nancy Salzman, the former president and co-founder of NXIVM, must also pay a $150,000 fine, U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis said. She has agreed to forfeit more than $500,000 in cash, several properties and a Steinway grand piano.

Salzman must report to prison by Jan. 19, Garaufis said. Her lawyers said she has been caring for her ailing mother.

Speaking in Brooklyn federal court, Salzman, 67, said she fell under NXIVM leader Keith Raniere's spell when they started working together 20 years ago and that she started rationalizing and overlooking the wrongdoing she saw around her. She offered an apology to everyone she's hurt.

I dont know that I can ever forgive myself, she said.

Salzman, known within the Albany-based group as Prefect," pleaded guilty in March 2019 to charges of racketeering conspiracy that involved conspiracy to commit identity theft and conspiracy to obstruct justice. She was one of the first in the group's leadership to plead guilty to criminal charges.

At that time, a tearful Salzman said she got mixed up with Raniere, a self-improvement guru and self-professed spiritual leader, because she wanted to help people improve their lives but that she ended up losing her way by helping spy on perceived enemies who sought to expose the group as a cross between a pyramid scheme and a cult.

At Salzman's sentencing, Garaufis said she had positioned herself alongside Raniere atop the NXIVM pyramid and left trauma and destruction in her wake.

In her misguided loyalty and blind allegiance to Keith Raniere, the defendant engaged in a racketeering conspiracy designed to intimidate NXIVMs detractors and that inflicted harm on NXIVMs members, Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis said in a statement after Salzman's sentencing.

Raniere was sentenced last October to 120 years in prison for turning some women into sex slaves branded with his initials and sexually abusing a 15-year-old. The group attracted millionaires, including Seagrams liquor heir Clare Bronfman, and Hollywood actors, including Allison Mack of TVs Smallville.

Bronfman was sentenced a year ago to nearly seven years in prison. Mack was sentenced in June to three years in prison. Salzmans daughter, Lauren Salzman, was sentenced in July to five years of probation and ordered to perform 300 hours of community service for her role in the group.

Nancy Salzman's crimes involved stealing identities of the groups critics and hacking into their email accounts from 2003 to 2008, prosecutors said. She was also accused of conspiring to doctor videos showing her teaching NXIVM lessons before the recordings were turned over to plaintiffs in a New Jersey lawsuit against the group.

An NXIVM bio of Salzman posted on the internet said she was a consultant to New York state and major corporations until she met Keith Raniere and discovered an approach to personal growth that yielded powerful and permanent results.
Opalesque Industry Update - Nesvold Capital Partners (NCP), a merchant bank that specializes in the financial services industry, announced that it has acquired a substantial, minority stake in Republic Capital Group, an investment bank that focuses on the investment management, securities, and fintech industries. Republic Capital, with offices in Houston and New York, represents NCP's fifth deal since the merchant bank launched in September 2020. As part of the transaction, NCP founder, Peter Nesvold, will join Republic Capital's New York office as a partner and Managing Director, and will take an active, day-to-day role in Republic Capital's management and investment banking mandates. Prior to founding NCP, Nesvold was a key principal in the growth of Silver Lane Advisors ("Silver Lane"), which grew from a one-banker practice to the #1-ranked investment bank nationally, guiding asset and wealth management firms through mergers and acquisitions. Silver Lane sold to Raymond James Financial in 2019. Going forward, Nesvold will offer advisory services exclusively through Republic Capital and will continue to make strategic, minority investments through NCP. "As an investor, my job is to identify extraordinary talent before they become household names in the financial services community," remarked Peter Nesvold. "I could not be more excited about partnering with John Langston and his team at Republic Capital. The firm is the best kept secret in asset and wealth management M&A, and is closely tracking Silver Lane's ascent from burgeoning practice to industry leader." John Langston, Republic Capital's founder, commented: "You can't hire great talent and experience like Peter's, you partner with it. I'm thrilled that Peter has joined our organization as an equity partner, and am convinced that we will be a formidable competitor in financial services investment banking for years to come."
Leftist agenda is the ending of the nation-state as per their underlying philosophy, and for the Islamist-extremist, it is replacing the democratic republic of India into an Islamic state.

The above slogan of 'Bharat Tere Tukde Honge-Insha Allah Insha Allah' was one of the most used and provocative slogans which were popularized during the 2016 JNU sedition row. The literal meaning of this slogan is - India, you will be divided into pieces as per the will of Allah. It was chanted as a war cry at one of the most' acclaimed' and supposedly top-institute higher education, JNU. This slogan was coined at JNU, and it was shouted during a protest at JNU against the hanging of Afzal Guru, who the Hon'ble Supreme Court convicted for aiding terrorists and waging war against the Indian Nation. This protest and sloganeering were led by leftist-leaning students of JNU, who were later ideologically supported by many left-liberal intellectuals.

Prima facie, this slogan seems just a provocative, anti-India slogan, but that is just a superfluous understanding of this. This is not merely a slogan but speaks of an unholy Nikah (marriage) between the 'Extreme Islamic Rightist' and the 'leftist-liberal-intellectual' of India. Firstly, we should understand in brief what the ideological roots of these two extreme ideologies are. As far as Leftist-Marxists-liberals are concerned, they base their hypothesis, which was pronounced by its proponent, Karl Marx.

Their basic assumption is that it is not the 'idea' that moves the world, but the "matter" is the moving force of human progress. It assumes material or economic factors as the basis of change and development, and other factors like religion, nationalism, and ideology are just the shadow of the prevailing economic relationships which they purportedly divide between the rich and the poor, the haves and the have-nots, the capitalist-bourgeoisie and the labour-proletariats. Those who control the economical means of production and economic forces also control ideological forces. Ideology like religion is nothing but an 'invention' by the exploiters (halves) to control the minds of the exploited (have nots). Religion is opium and a drug for the poor masses since it does not let the poor militate against the rich! Nationalism and nation-state is a 'false consciousness' among the masses projected by the rich to control the 'minds' of the poor and perpetuate the former's control. Only by throwing away the yoke of religion and nationalism, the so-called state of classless and stateless society would emerge through violence and revolution.

Of late, the neo-Left liberals of India have also started believing in libertarianism, individualism and constitutionalism and claim to believe in equality, human rights, the rule of law, women-emancipation etc. Surprisingly, they are against any form of primordial loyalty, be it a religious or caste-basis and also claim themselves to be the champions of freedom, free will and 'human-choice' in selecting its basic choices like dress, food, tastes, and other choices of human life.

Extreme Right Islamist is a philosophy and religious wave which want to impose the tenants of Islam-religion in India, i.e. Islamization of India. They are led by mostly the clergy class and the religious influencers of the Islamic religion in India. As per their belief system, Islam as an idea is a world-view that decides each and every step of human life from birth to death as given in the Holy Quran. The life of any Muslim is to be lived as dictated by the tenants of the Holy Quran. In his life, the individual Muslim is bound by religious laws known as Sharia-law, which is derived primarily from the holy Quran and which are above the laws of a nation like the constitution or the prevailing secular laws. It also prescribes the relationship between a Muslim and other non-Muslim and how and what kind of political and social relationship a Muslim can have per se as well as his inter se relationship with fellows of other religions. Strangely, the tenets of Islam also enjoins a believer to not only spread Islam but fight and convert any non-Muslim (Kafir) to Islam by use of force.

So, both ideologies of Indian-leftists and Indian Rightist Islamists are antithetical, mutually antagonistic and diametrically opposite extreme ideologies. For one individual is an economic being, while for others, he is exclusively a religious being. The leftist ideology dictates an individual as per a thesis of linear economic development from bad to good and ultimately utopian state of classlessness and statelessness. The leftists claim their interpretation as the most scientific, rational and logical interpretations emanating from 'material interpretation of history'. The Islamist extremist also claims that their interpretation is culled from the 'revelation of the ultimate truth' as given in the Quran. The Islamist ideology enjoins a Muslim to live as per the dictates of the Quran and get Jannat. For the Indian leftist, an individual's life is as per his choice, be it his food, dress or way of living.

But if these two ideologies are so extreme, how and why they have married? Is it a 'marriage' or 'friendship of convenience?' One thing is clear that it is not a marriage of love but a marriage of convenience. Both have a common agenda. In the case of the leftist, it is the ending of the nation-state as per their underlying philosophy, and for the Islamist-extremist, it is replacing the democratic republic of India into an Islamic state. Both have a common enemy. In the case of leftists, it is the enlightened citizen of India or what they dub as the 'Rightist'. For Islamist-extremist, it is the other religious groups of India led by the majority, Hindus. Their modus Operandi is the same. For the leftist, to propose nothing and oppose everything and picture every act, however secular it might be from the angle of regression, oppression, exploitation and Hindu-majority and vulnerability of minorities.

For Islamist-extremist, it is colouring everything from a communal perspective. Also, they converge on many common strategies. Both can use any means -extra-constitutional, illegal, legal-litigations, and use of loopholes in legal-system, spreading lies, misinformation and disinformation, distorting of information, tool-kits through social media to wreck the very nation itself. Both do not desist from justifying violent and terrorist means. There is also a dialectic tussle between the acclaimed agents of change (the leftist) and the votaries of the status quo (Islamist extremists). While the leftists want to change, they recluse themselves in questioning any positive change in the Islamist-extremist ideology.

In the struggle of nations, these Leftist-Islamic extremists priorities class/religion over the nation. The communist opposed the independence day of India while Islamist-extremists called for the direct action day. In the case of Islamist extremists, they champion Gajwa-Hind over Jai-Hind. That is why there was a split in CPI and CPM when the aggressive Chinese forces attacked India, as CPM chose their Proletariat brothers over Indian nationalism and hailed the aggressive forces as emancipating forces.

Both claim to oppose the government in power, but they oppose the very country and nation in the garb of opposing the government. They do not desist from spreading and promoting the idea of secession, anti-nationalism and anarchy. They will find fault in anything and everything, which is the idea of 'India'. They disrespect the sovereignty of India, and its national symbols, be it the very unity of India, its national flag, its armed forces or any other. Since their prime aim is to destroy the very nation-state itself, they build up their 'narratives' of anti-India,, be its historical past or the present or the nation's progress in the future. Even the history of India is interpreted from this so-called perspective where the glorious and historical achievements are ridiculed and distorted.

Indian Leftist and Islamist Extremist in the India context:

 The Indian Leftists choose to remain silent on issues of Radical Islam Extremism in India and their acts, be it any violent act or act of secession and violent struggles like militancy in Kashmir. They claim that rule of law and law is supreme. But, when it comes to the case of Shariyat-law, they remain lull and argue that Muslims as minorities have their own traditions.

 A strange sense of hesitation is seen in the liberal Leftists while condemning atrocities by radical Islamic groups like the killing of any journalist as opposed to their vehement protest against instances of alleged violence by any other group. In case of a reporter is killed by Radical Islam Extremists like the Taliban, they will 'hate the bullet' instead of the radical-ideology of Taliban!

 For them, the tradition of 'Ghoongat' is against women emancipation but wearing 'Burqa' is a matter of her' choice.' For them, women are independent and have their own identity to choose, but when the issue of the Triple-Talaq comes, they champion the cause of minority-traditions and non-interference in the Islamic way of living. No Leftist has ever championed the cause of opening a mosque for Muslim women. The leftist can find 'equality' even in the regressive tradition of polygamy!

 For them, slogans like 'Bharat-Tere Tukde Tukde Honge', Afjal Hum Sharminda hai, tere katil Jinda hai are nothing but expression of speech under Article 19, but banning the book, 'Lazza' by Tasleema Nasreen is justified. This form of support to secession is not allowed even in liberal democracies like Britain or the USA. Imagine if anyone says Laden Hum Sharminda hai, Tere Katil Jinda Hai (We regret that the killer of Bin Laden are still alive) in the USA!

 They eulogies secession, separatism and anti-nationalism. The chants like 'Bharat-Tere Tukde Tukde Honge', 'Bharat Teri Barbadi' are just reflections of their ideological grooming of anti-nationalism. They are sympathetic with the violent insurgents in India. They Champion the Human rights, but for them, human is only when they belong to minority-community particularly Muslim-community.

 For these left liberals, there is growing intolerance in India, but this intolerance is ignored when it comes to acts of Islamist extremists. They champion the cause of constitutionalism and the rule of law. But, they cry and deplores the very Supreme Court if any judgment is not as per their 'perspective' be it the order of hanging of Afzal or the judgment in the case of Babri-Masjid, which they target as 'state-led-judgment'.

It is a dangerous nexus between two opposite ideologies against the idea of India, which must be fought tooth and nail at an ideological and material level.

(The writer is a Social activist & columnist)
The Vice-Chancellor of The Central University of Kerala (CUK) approved the circular that was issued to the faculty members and employees on their lectures/statements.

The Central University of Kerala (CUK) has issued a circular asking its employees, barring them from giving any kind of provocative lectures in class or antinational statements.

Issuing a circular on August 30, CUK said, The faculty members/employees should abstain from giving any type of provoking lectures/statements that are antinational and will be against the interest of the nation. Strict disciplinary action will be taken against those who indulge in such activities in the future.

The circular was issued with the approval of the Vice-Chancellor, it read. Earlier, an assistant professor of CUK was suspended for giving antinational statements while taking an online class on Fascism and Nazism in April.
The utterances by Kashmiri leaders cannot be taken lightly, as jihadism survives and thrives amidst people who have grievances whether it could be against a government, a community living alongside and a group of people considered 'intruders' and in Kashmir, all these challenges prevail, and so does the nasty politics of the Neta class, too.

New Delhi: It's a dangerous mind game. What's common between Pakistan, Yemen, Syria, Nigeria, Mali, Somalia, and Afghanistan? Jihadists have a pretty good influence in these countries.

The Taliban takeover in Afghanistan has generated a perception that 'holy warriors' has humbled no less than the United States of America (USA). Those who know a little bit of history - would say - they have been blessed to achieve so twice as only a few decades back, even the erstwhile Soviet Union was vanquished.

Here comes the relevance of a phrase spoken out by Mehbooba Mufti, PDP leader and a former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

"....duniya ke liye (Taliban) misal kar sakten haen (The new Taliban regime can emerge as a beacon or a role model for the rest of the world)," she said. Real powerful words and she is not alone from Kashmir - which for long has been India's hotbed of Jihadi terrorism and chaos. Another former Chief Minister (J&K), Farooq Abdullah, said he is 'hopeful' that the insurgents in Afghanistan would deliver "good governance in accordance with Islamic principles." Both these former Chief Ministers would not have exuded such optimism for any regime in an Indian state or at the centre, maybe. Of course, there are strong reactions already.

BJP leader Nirmal Singh, who worked as Deputy Chief Minister under PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti, said - "In our country where Muslims are a minority, Farooq Abdullah wants secularism; and where Muslims are a majority, he wants Islamic rules."

This is no state secret, but here comes the moment when the cat is out of the bag.

The Taliban takeover might have generated debate about Joe Biden's blunders and general concern about the rise of Jihadi terrorism, but in some corners around the globe, the stories were different.

In Yemen, enthusiasts sparked off fireworks; in Somalia, they handed out sweets in joy and jubilation. There was praise for the Taliban leadership and foot soldiers for providing a "living example" in Syria.

This is the mindset, and it is the real global challenge today.

Now, how to take on the 'challenge' and hold the bulls by their horns?

"Bad government creates an opening for jihadism. Many rural Afghans decided that Taliban justice, though harsh, was quicker and less corrupt .... This is one reason the Taliban's final march to power met so little resistance," says 'The Economist' report.

Another area of concern is terrorism does not only mean 'killing' innocent people and erasing out the detractors. It is largely to "control territory," as has been proved by the nature of Islamic terrorism in the last few decades. In places like Pakistan, Yemen, Syria, Nigeria, Mali, Somalia and Mozambique, they already 'control' the territory.

Therefore, the utterances by Kashmiri leaders - and two stalwarts in regional politics - cannot be taken lightly to put them under cover after some media wrangling.

Taliban footsoldiers are already committing atrocities. A video has gone viral in social media and electronic media that shows a woman being continuously hit by a Taliban with his stick, perhaps on the streets of Kabul.

There are already reports that Jihadists in some parts of Nigeria are hard to beat because 'locals detest' the authorities or the government. There are instances of army officers "selling" their weapons to the guerrillas.

Jihadism also survives and thrives amidst people who have grievances. This could be against a government, against a community living alongside and a group of people considered 'intruders'.

In Kashmir, all these challenges prevail, and so does the nasty politics of the Neta class, too.

A little beyond the Af-Pak region, there is already powerful propaganda that the United States had entered Afghanistan in 2001 to dominate the region, including parts of Iran, Russia, and China. Eventually, the Taliban have emerged victorious, and the Americans fled the region.

To sum up, dealing with the 'Jihadi' mindset is a real problem, especially in the region and countries such as India, where multiple communities have been living for ages.

Where would the next round of 'global Jihad' be?

Handling the Taliban diplomatically and from a security perspective is only the tip of the iceberg. The 'Taliban's triumph' as a perception or half-cooked idea is the real challenge.


The new project is expected to generate about 3.1 million person-days of employment for local communities, of which at least 25 per cent will be for women, over the construction and maintenance periods.

The Indian government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a 300 million dollar loan as additional financing to scale up the improvement of rural connectivity to help boost the rural economy in Maharashtra. The additional financing for the ongoing Maharashtra Rural Connectivity Improvement Project will help improve an additional 1,100 rural roads and 230 bridges for a total length of 2,900 kilometres in 34 districts.

The ongoing project with 200 million dollar financing, approved in August 2019, is already improving and maintaining the condition and safety of 2,100 kilometres of rural roads. The signatories to the loan agreement were Additional Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Rajat Kumar Mishra and Country Director of ADBs India Resident Mission, Takeo Konishi.

Ministry of Finance said, with the additional financing, the overall project will improve the condition and safety of five thousand kilometres of rural roads and over 200 bridges connecting rural communities. The Ministry said the new project is expected to generate about 3.1 million person-days of employment for local communities, of which at least 25 per cent will be for women, over the construction and maintenance period. It said a gender action plan has been prepared to focus on the capacity development of women workers so that they can benefit from the semiskilled and unskilled labour opportunities.

Courtesy: AIR
Highlighting Indias contributions to UN Peacekeeping, the Minister said the country is the largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping operations in cumulative terms since its inception, having deployed over two lakh 50 thousand peacekeepers across 49 UN missions.

India will continue to be a force multiplier for peacebuilding with an emphasis on the human-centric approach. The countrys fundamental approach to peacebuilding efforts is to respect national ownership and be guided by host States development priorities. This was stated by Minister of State for External Affairs, Meenakshi Lekhi, while speaking at the UN Security Council Open Debate on UN Peacekeeping Operations-Transitions yesterday.

The Minister said New Delhi is convinced that human-centric, gender-sensitive and technologically primed solutions and the robust functioning of democratic institutions of governance that give all stakeholders a say in creating a better future is the biggest guarantee for the success of peacebuilding and for sustaining peace.

She said UN Peacekeeping Missions have been playing an important role in bringing about peace and stability in countries of deployment, despite numerous operational challenges. Ms Lekhi added that one of the major operational challenges that continues to hamper peacekeeping operations has been the transition phase from peacekeeping to peacebuilding. She said the drawdown of a UN Peacekeeping Operation and its reconfiguration into a minimal modified UN presence represents a critical phase for the success of a UN Peacekeeping Mission.

For the host country, on the one hand, this signals progress towards political stability and new development opportunities, but on the other hand, it also presents a real risk of the country relapsing into conflict.

Highlighting Indias contributions to UN Peacekeeping, the Minister said the country is the largest troop contributor to UN peacekeeping operations in cumulative terms since its inception, having deployed more than two lakh 50 thousand peacekeepers across 49 UN missions. This bears testimony to Indias commitment towards contributing a reliable, well-trained and highly professional peacekeeping force. She said the country was also happy to donate vaccines for all UN peacekeepers and upgrade two of its hospitals for peacekeeping to combat the pandemic.

Courtesy: AIR
The Prime Minister expressed his "appreciation" for the Russian delegation visit led by Secretary Patrushev when major changes are taking place in the region and asked Secretary Patrushev to convey his thanks to President Putin for his "constant attention" towards the India-Russia Partnership.

New Delhi: India and Russia on Wednesday, September 8, agreed to coordinate the approaches of both the countries in multilateral formats on the Afghan settlement.

Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, held detailed deliberations with NSA Ajit Doval and also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

"The importance of defining parameters of the future state structure of Afghanistan by the Afghans themselves, as well as the need to prevent the escalation of violence, social, ethnic and confessional contradictions in the country, were emphasized," the Russian government statement said.

Later in the day, the visiting Russian dignitary called on Prime Minister Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar separately.

"Secretary Patrushev briefed the Prime Minister on his fruitful exchanges with NSA (Doval) and EAM (Jaishankar)," an MEA release said.

He expressed Russia's firm commitment to further deepen its 'Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership' with India.

The interactions also have a special significance, as PM Modi will chair a BRICS Summit on Thursday, September 9, at a virtual session, which would also be attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.

The Prime Minister expressed his "appreciation" for the visit of the Russian delegation led by Secretary Patrushev when major changes are taking place in the region.

Mr Modi also asked Secretary Patrushev to convey his thanks to President Putin for his "constant attention" towards the India-Russia Partnership.

He also said that he was looking forward to welcoming President Putin to India in the near future for the bilateral summit.

The Russian government statement also said at the delegation-level talks led by two NSAs that both sides discussed deepening bilateral cooperation in the field of security with an emphasis on further interaction on the "anti-terrorist track, combating illegal migration and drug trafficking."

All these issues relate to Afghanistan's development, where the Taliban has taken over after the American forces made the withdrawal, ending their 20-year long association with the Asian nation.

"Attention was paid to intensifying the joint work of the both country's special services and military bodies."

"They also touched upon humanitarian and migration problems in this country, as well as prospects for the Russian-Indian joint efforts aimed at creating conditions for launching a peaceful settlement process on the basis of an intra-Afghan dialogue," the Russian statement said.

"There are also plans to discuss current issues on the international and regional agenda with an emphasis on developments in Afghanistan," a Kremlin statement said about the BRICS Summit scheduled for September 9. "The main agreements will be reflected in the final Declaration."
Chronicling the events in the run-up to the Kargil war, the film focuses on Captain Vikram Batra, whose obsession for the Army in school to his heroics in the battlefield have been portrayed in a realistic manner

The story is about a decent young boy from Palampur, Vikram Batra (Sidharth Malhotra), son of a teacher, who grows up with the dream of serving his country someday. Hes so obsessed with the Army uniform that he wears it on every occasion in his school. He grows up to prepare for his dream and right before giving the exams, he falls in love with a very simple girl Dimple Cheema (Kiara Advani). The film chronicles the events in the run-up to the Kargil war and the role of Captain Vikram Batra, whose indomitable spirit and unparalleled courage contributed immensely to Indias victory.

We are taken back to a childhood sequence of Captain Vikram Batra (Sidharth Malhotra) and shown his growing up years, finding the love of his life Dimple Cheema, before he is finally posted at the 13 JAK Rifles as a Lieutenant. While this build-up depicts the characters journey, it doesnt justify the screen time taken.

On the verge of sacrificing his Army dream to choose Merchant Navy for more money (to impress the girls dad), Vikram is rightly advised by his friend Sunny (Sahil Vaid) not to do so. He becomes Lieutenant and earns respect among his team members by capturing dreadful terrorists around. With his current regiment, he goes into the Kargil War facing Pakistani militants ambushing the LOC. Recapturing two of the main points, Vikram Batra leads his team, giving the entire country a reason to celebrate, which today is known as Vijay Divas (December 16).

Based on Captain Vikram Batras short but stirring life, director Vishnu Varadhans Kargil War drama Shershaah, is a sincere film supported by a romantic subplot and a script that's terrified of scraping beneath the surface

About an hour into Shershaah, it goes like this- Vikram Batra and his comrade Bansi (Anil Charanjeett) are on night patrol in Jammu & Kashmir, where they are posted on the sidelines of a brewing war with Pakistan, and the duo has a heart-to-heart conversation. Bansi shows a picture of his daughter, Durga, and says that he will carry her in his arms for the first time, when he goes home post-war. Affected by Bansis choice of words, Batra melts and promises to open an FD in his daughters name, to secure a future for her.

Captain Vikram Batra didnt need an inciting incident to inspire him, he didnt come from a family of war veterans. And as far back as he could remember, all he wanted to do was become a fauji. Based on his short but stirring life, director Vishnu Varadhans Kargil War drama Shershaah, is a sincere film supported by a romantic subplot and a script that's terrified of scraping beneath the surface.

We have seen shades of Kargil War being portrayed multiple times in Bollywood movies before, and this is among the best ones. Writer Sandeep Srivastava keeps things pretty much in limits. The sweet romance doesnt get too much in between the much-controlled border-drama and unfiltered action. Even the subject sails smoothly, touching all the usual Bollywood Army-movies cliches and not holding them for a long time, without making characters scream loud patriotic dialogues and adding too much melodrama to the real events. The love story part started on a very convincing note and the climax takes up the film a notch higher, helping it to end on a high note.

Sidharth Malhotra shines in the war scenes and his performance evolves through the film. He makes great efforts to recreate the aura of his characters life persona on the big screen. This is one of his best performances. Kiara Advani looks her part as a resolute Sardarni, who loves her man with all her heart. But she doesnt have much scope to perform. Shiv Pandit has been very aptly cast as Captain Sanjeev Jamwal, who is tough on the outside, but emotional from inside.
A group will be organizing a conference on 10th, 11th and 12th September in over 40 universities of USA. The theme says DISMANTLING GLOBAL HINDUTVA and the picture depicts that Hindutva needs to be rooted out by any means. Since the second day of the conference is also coinciding with Swami Vivekanandas great speech in Chicago at the conference of Parliament of world religions, would like to highlight his aphorism

Swami Vivekananda narrated; I am proud to belong to a religion that has taught the world both tolerance and universal acceptance. We believe not only in universal toleration, but we accept all religions as true. I am proud to belong to a nation, which has sheltered the persecuted and the refugees of all religions, and all nations of the earth. I am proud to tell you that we have gathered in our bosom the purest remnant of the Israelites, who came to Southern India and took refuge with us in the very year in which their holy temple was shattered to pieces by Roman tyranny. I am proud to belong to the religion, which has sheltered and is still fostering the remnant of the grand Zoroastrian nation. I will quote to you, brethren, a few lines from a hymn which I remember to have repeated from my earliest boyhood, which is every day repeated by millions of human beings: As the different streams having their sources in different paths which men take through different tendencies, various though they appear, crooked or straight, all lead to Thee.

The organizers of the conference this year needs to study Hindutva to the core and change their perception towards Hindutva as narrated by Swami, which holds true even today. Since the inception of the Narendra Modi government in the year 2014, more than 80000 people have been rescued from different parts of the world which was not an easy task and that too without looking into the religion of any person, not only people from different religions of India but also citizens of 26 countries from war-affected zone including the USA. One more example of following principles of Hinduism, during Corona Phase 1 and 2, Modi government had given necessary medicines to all the countries requested for without selfish motive. Vaccinations help too many countries forgetting criticism at home shows how deep principles of Hinduism are imbibed and followed.

Hinduism not only just believes in Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam (the whole world is my family) and Lokah Samasta Sukhino Bhavantu (All living beings be in peace, happy and in harmony) but also imbibes in reality.

I would like to ask professionals from different parts of the world, many Indian spiritual and social organizations are working across the globe, could they highlight some incidents wherein any person were forced to convert to Hinduism. These organizations are just following the principles of Hinduism and working there to promote goodwill, to bring harmony and to better the physical, mental and social health of everyone on planet earth. Then why do some people or few organizations want to dismantle Hindutva? India has never attacked any country to grab power, land and resources rather Pakistan and China captured Indias territories in past.

The populous growth of other religions in India is increasing day by day; the simple fact is that Hinduism has accepted everyone so this freedom is helping other religions to grow without any fear however what is happening in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, what happened to the minority population (Hindu, Christian, Parsi, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain) in those countries, why their population declined in last 75 years? Can any university in America put effort to study and make the report public?

The New York Herald written after Swamijis speech:

Vivekananda is undoubtedly the greatest figure in the Parliament of Religions. After hearing him we feel how foolish it is to send missionaries to this learned nation. I would request universities to come forward and study what exactly many missionaries are doing in India? Are they respecting other religious practices and what teachings they are giving to poor people in India?

Swami Vivekananda further added, If the Parliament of Religions has shown anything to the world, it is this: It has proved to the world that holiness, purity and charity are not the exclusive possessions of any church in the world and that every system has produced men and women of the most exalted character. In the face of this evidence, if anybody dreams of the exclusive survival of his own religion and the destruction of the others, I pity him from the bottom of my heart, and point out to him that upon the banner of every religion will soon be written in spite of resistance: Help and not fight, Assimilation and not Destruction, Harmony and Peace and not Dissension.

Indias rich heritage never disowned anyone even if someone had bad intentions towards it. India has faced many adversities owing to its goodwill and harmonious gesture, more than 200 invasions, no country has faced such adversities, still, this great heritage of Hinduism is preserved and working for the good of every living being on the planet earth. Hinduism not only believes in the goodwill of human beings but also works for nurturing environment. Therefore, neither Hinduism will be rooted out nor it will allow anything good to be destroyed on planet earth.

Regarding Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), they never worked or believed in destroying other religions rather it wants every citizen of this nation to work in unison for the upliftment and make our country great again, socially, economically and spiritually. RSS volunteers wholeheartedly served everyone without seeing their religion during any natural calamity or Corona phases 1 and 2. Academicians should spend time with the volunteers of RSS, see the activities rather than believing blindly against RSS or Hindutva.

It is the time for experts from the different universities to come forward and study Vedas and Bhagavad Gita to know Hinduism and how can we all make this world better and respect every religion.

I would like to suggest a conference on Connecting and Uniting the World using Philosophy of Hindutva rather than Dismantling the Hindutva.

(Swami Vivekanands Narration: ref. History Flame)


Cambridge University academic Prof Priyamvada Gopal has asked the Western countries to "block the naturalisation for Hindus".

The Cambridge Hindu Society on Wednesday (September 8) condemned the Hinduphobic statements of Cambridge University academic Prof Priyamvada Gopal.

"On behalf of Cambridge University Hindu Cultural Society (CUHCS), we would like to express our discontent with and condemnation of the recent words of the Cambridge academic, Priyamvada Gopal," read the statement issued by CUHCS.

It added, "The Cambridge University academic, Priyamvada Gopal, recently referred to Hindus as "sickos" in a tweet and expressed her wish that Western countries should "block naturalisation for Hindus." She further, sickeningly, joked and mocked the memorial commemorating the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, making light of the mass slaughter of peaceful protestors in Amritsar during the British colonial occupation of India."

The Society said Cambridge is a place that should be free from any form of bigotry and intolerance as it's home to students of multiple faiths and walks of life.

It accused Prof Priyamvada Gopal of creating an environment of fear and intolerance on the campus. "Following the recent scandal at Oxford University, there has been a recent rise in anti-Hindu sentiment on our campuses, and particularly within academia itself. Hinduphobia will not be tolerated," the statement read.

"Really am at the point where I would like to invite Western countries to block naturalisation for Hindus. Snatch their precious little H-1Bs. Sickos," Prof Priyamvada Gopal posted on Twitter.

As reported by the Organiser, netizens expressed deep shock over Cambridge University professor's Hinduphobia and asked if this is the official position of Cambridge University.

"Why does @Cambridge_Uni promote such Hatemongers and #Hindupobic liars, of low accomplishment like @PriyamvadaGopal? Shocking promotion of racial hatred @BorisJohnson @10DowningStreet @PMOIndia @HCI_London Is this official attitude of CU?" posted Mohandas Pai.

Renowned author Hindol Sengupta posted on Twitter, "A textbook case of Hinduphobia. See that she is talking about ALL Hindus. This exact sentence said about ANY other community would lead to immediate expulsion from the same university. That this is, instead, cheered shows how deep the roots of hatred and loathing for Hindus go."

He added, "It must be asked, how can the numerous Hindu students on the campus of this university ever feel safe with such a person belching out such hatred? Why is this question not being asked by the parents and students who pay tens of thousands of pounds for their education?"

About the claim that she was the granddaughter of Dr. S Radhakrishnan, Sengupta posted, "The hilarious, revealing thing I heard after tweeting about (below), is that this person was falsely proclaimed as Dr. Radhakrishnan's granddaughter! Indians, British, are so class-conscious that ppl fell for it! The scientist @GautamDesiraju from the same family told me this is fake."
China is targeting and stealing "transport technologies," such as quantum computing, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and 5G and Chinese espionage costs the US between USD 200 to USD 600 billion a year in stolen intellectual property.

Beijing: China seeks to become the world's next superpower, dethroning the United States and tearing apart the rules-based international system that American and its allies have built since the end of World War 2, according to a report published in The National Interest.

In an opinion piece in The National Interest, Stavros Atlamazoglou wrote, "the US faces myriad conventional and unconventional threats from Russia, North Korea, Iran, terrorist organisations, climate change, and pandemics are just some of them. Yet, China unquestionably rises to the top as the primary danger to US national security."

According to the report, "To achieve the world's next superpower, Beijing primarily goes after economic, industrial, and technological targets that will offer a competitive advantage to the Chinese economic and technological sector. Whether it's stolen blueprints of American (and foreign, including Russian) aircraft, such as the F-35 or F-22, or missile technology, China is using espionage to fuel its economic furnaces."

"These intelligence operations pose a grave threat to US national security and economic prosperity." the report added.

Citing an interview of Mike Orlando, the Acting Director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, Atlamazoglou wrote that "Chinese espionage costs the US between USD 200 to USD 600 billion a year in stolen intellectual property. And this is something that has been happening for the past two decades, which would mean a loss of USD 4 trillion, on the low end, to USD 12 trillion, on the high end; an astounding loss either way."

"The holistic and comprehensive threat to the United States, posed by the Communist Party of China, is an existential threat. And it is the most complex, pernicious, aggressive, and strategic threat our nation has ever faced," Bill Evanina, the former director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, recently told the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

Atlamazoglou further stated that China needs to continue its economic growth and technologically outmatch the US and the rest of the West to surpass the US. However, instead of relying on innovation and invention, China prefers to "steal technology and then copy it".

China is targeting and stealing "transport technologies," such as quantum computing, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and 5G. Although there is a military application for all of these technologies, the commercial and economic value is equally important to Beijing in its bid to become a superpower, Atlamazoglou added.

Courtesy: ANI




The Taliban captured the Norwegian embassy in Kabul and destroyed wine bottles and childrens books.

The Taliban captured the Norwegian embassy in Kabul on Wednesday (September 8), smashed the wine bottles, and destroyed the childrens books.

Taliban has now taken over the Norwegian Embassy in Kabul. Say they will return it to us later. But first wine bottles are to be smashed and childrens books destroyed. Guns, apparently less dangerous, posted the Norwegian Ambassador in Iran Sigvald Hauge on Twitter.

The Taliban had captured Kabul on August 15 and did not extend the deadline for the withdrawal of the American-led NATO forces. The deadline for complete withdrawal was August 31.

Once the NATO troops left, the Taliban started overtaking and searching foreign embassies.

Russia, China and Pakistan embassies are not shut in Kabul and are doing business as usual. Other countries have shut their embassies for the safety of their staff.

The countries have not yet recognised the new government in Afghanistan.

The Taliban has declared that it would rule the country strictly by the Sharia, thereby taking away all the freedom of women and minorities.

Women are not allowed education and are not allowed to go out alone. They also can not work outside houses.

The Taliban has been forcibly taking away young girls to be sex slaves for their fighters.
The Taliban financial network is far more complex than was earlier expected and is a sophisticated financial network with a disciplined taxation system that pays for insurgent operations, salaries, and general services.

Kabul: The blitzkrieg of the Taliban in Afghanistan is an issue of debate among experts. Apart from determination, a military conquest is also a battle of resources, so where did the Taliban get the funds to conduct their blitz through the nation while they kept negotiating in Doha?

Sergio Restelli, writing in The Times of Israel, said that this brings to the fore the question that even after 20 years of constant efforts to root out the Taliban, how did they have the strength and the capacity, not to mention the wherewithal to press for a military offensive and take the entire nation in a handful of days?

Terrorist groups, like criminal organisations, aren't very keen on transparency and accountability, so much forensic financial intelligence is required in these cases to connect the dots and trace the source of funds. Recently, British media organisations have invested deeply to discover the Taliban's funding network, reported The Times of Israel.

Apparently, the Taliban financial network is far more complex than was earlier expected. It is a sophisticated financial network with a disciplined taxation system that pays for insurgent operations, salaries, and general services.

Their annual revenue is estimated at around USD 400 million, though some experts peg it to have increased substantially over the last few years to around USD 1.2 billion, said Restelli.

It is suspected that a large part of their income is derived from the narcotics trade. In fact, the Taliban apparently collects about 10 per cent as cultivation tax from opium farmers and 15 per cent as heroin tax from laboratories and smugglers that smuggle narcotics into Pakistan. This, by itself, is a revenue stream estimated at USD 250-300 million.

However, contrary to popular belief, it is not the poppy business that is at the core of the Taliban's income, said Restelli.

In areas within its control, the Taliban maintains a taxation regime meant to act as a security/protection tax.

Interestingly, a Taliban Financial Commission issues regular diktats to traders and transporters to pay taxes while travelling in areas they control. Oddly enough, the other major source for income generation for the Taliban is energy, telecommunications and mobile operations.

In a letter made public by media outlets, the Electricity Company of Afghanistan went on record to state that the Taliban had been earning more than USD 4-5 million annually by billing electricity consumers in areas it had controlled, Restelli said.

Afghanistan is rich in minerals and precious stones, which were exploited by all sides in the decades of conflict. Most extraction done so far has been done illegally and on a micro-level, though the industry's potential is estimated to be around USD 1 trillion. Simply by placing roadblocks on routes connecting these mining sites with towns, the Taliban has easily taken control of these mining locations.

In fact, most trucks leaving these sites are forced to dump half of their cargo at gunpoint. Extortion from legal as well as illegal mining operations has increased manifold over the years.

The United Nations Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team, in their annual report of 2014 of the had stated that even then, the Taliban controlled around 35 mining operations in Helmand province, thereby earning over USD 10 million a year.

The most significant and dangerous source of funding that the Taliban receives is political, from external states. Though Afghanistan's civilian government and the US have accused regional governments like Iran and, most importantly, Pakistan of financing the terrorist group, such claims have been largely ignored, reported The Times of Israel.

If there was any doubt about the intention and the nexus between the Taliban and Pakistan, one needs to see the days after the fall of Kabul.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan declaration that 'the Taliban insurrection in Afghanistan is a holy war against the occupation by foreign forces.' shows Pakistan's support of a terrorist organisation that they have received billions of dollars in aid to destroy.

Private high net worth individuals from Pakistan and other Gulf countries have been under surveillance for contributing substantially to the Taliban to the tune of USD 200 million as per a classified CIA report from 2013, which was leaked.

Under the tag of aid for the war on terror, Pakistan has obtained arms, equipment, and ammunition from the US that have been sold at large profits or at times donated to the Taliban. There is no other plausible justification to why the Taliban has access to US arms and ammunition, reported The Times of Israel.

The global community's reaction to a Pakistan run, terrorist led Afghanistan, of which the cabinet is a list of terror incorporation's most wanted, will decide the future of global security, said Restelli.

Courtesy: ANI
A 34-year-old Iowa City man has been convicted of second-degree murder after prosecutors said he intentionally drove the wrong way on an interstate and collided with another car, killing a man from Texas
Editor's Note: This event scheduled for Manistee UMC Sept. 21-25 has been cancelled.

MANISTEE  Inner healing for body, mind and spirit, a unique ministry which only Christ can do, will be the focus of the Healing School hosted by Manistee United Methodist Church from Sept. 21-25.

Rev. Dr. Bobby Cabot, a retired United Methodist pastor and president of Kingdom Life Healing Ministries, developed the school in 2003 and has taught it throughout the United States and internationally. Each participant will receive her 200 page workbook, Encountering the God Who Heals, which they can take home for further study.

The Healing School will begin with registration at 6 p.m. on Sept. 21, followed by the first workshop from 7-9 p.m. Classes are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 22-24 with meal breaks, and from 9 a.m. to noon on Sept. 25. There will be a Healing Service, open to the public, at 7 p.m. on Sept. 25.

Some of the topics to be discussed are "The God Who Speaks," "Core Needs," "Lies We Believe about God," "Ourselves and Others," "Forgiveness, Physical Healing."

Classes will be taught by Cabot, Pastor Joyce Newman of River of Life Ministry and Pastor John Scott of Manistee United Methodist Church.

Cabot, who strives for a loving, low-key approach that nurtures and edifies, has lived in many cities and states, but has spent most of her adult life in Manistee. She attended Asbury Theological Seminary where she earned a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies. She completed her doctorate in a three-pronged approach to healing, including inner healing prayer, counseling and spiritual formation.

Cabot pastored at Wolf Lake UMC in Muskegon and at Bear Lake and Arcadia United Methodist churches. To learn more about Cabot, view testimonies and to access her online video teaching, visit Kingdom Life Healing Ministries at klhm.org.

Registration is still open for the school, which will be held at Manistee UMC, located at 387 First St. in Manistee. Call 231-723-6219 for more information or visit manisteeumc.org/events to view a brochure and register.
Sept. 11 marks the twentieth anniversary of terrorist attacks on America. The healing is ongoing as the nation continues to struggle to understand what happened on that day.

Manistee County Library will have a memorial display in the upstairs gallery of the main library, Sept. 9-30 to commemorate the day.

Available at the library are the following titles for patrons wishing to further understand the events before, during and after 9/11.

 The 9/11 Commission Report: Final Report of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States offers a full account of the preparedness for and the response to the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. It also offers measures to be taken against future attacks.

 The Only Plane in the Sky by Garrett Graff tells the story of Air Force One, flying solo while the events of 9/11 played out. Here are the accounts of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, on Flight 93, at the Pentagon and ground zero.

 The United States of Jihad: Investigating Americas Homegrown Terrorists by Peter Bergen studies the American who have joined terrorist groups, the operatives tracking them and the effect of social media on terrorism.

 The Black Banners: the Inside Story of 9/11 and the War Against Al-Qaeda by Ali H. Soufan delves into the mystery surrounding Al-Qaeda. Insight is offered into their hideouts and interrogations as well as information on how terrorists operate.

 The One Percent Doctrine: Deep Inside Americas Pursuit of Its Enemies Since 9/11 by Ron Suskind illuminates the three years following the 9/11 attacks and answers the questions as to who was running the war on terror.

 The Day That Shook America: a Concise History of 9/11 by Samuel Walker is a new volume that questions why the attacks happened and why the nation was not more prepared. The author looks at the policies of the administrations leading up to and during the attacks.

 Chris Wallaces book Countdown Bin Laden: the Untold Story of the 247-Day Hunt to Bring the Mastermind of 9/11 to Justice follows the CIA and SEAL Team who tracked Bin Laden. He also chronicles the stories of family loss after the attacks and the time spent in the Situation Room while the raid played out.

 Ordinary heroes: a Memoir of 9/11 by Joseph Pfeifer, a firefighter who was doing a routine investigation when the first plane hit the World Trade Center tower. This book is a testament to the fight to save as many lives as possible at risk to his squad and himself for weeks afterward.

 The true story of the CIAs Team Alpha being dropped behind enemy lines in Afghanistan in response to 9/11 is told in First Casualty: the Untold Story of the CIA Mission to Avenge 9/11 by Toby Hardin. Read the history of the central figures and follow Team Alpha on their mission to gain access to the Al-Qaeda jihadists. This is the story of the beginning of Americas longest war.

 Few thought about the people on other airplanes after airspace was closed and the planes rerouted for safety. The Day the World Came to Town Updates Edition: 9/11 in Gander, Newfoundland by Jim Defede tells the heartwarming story of 38 jetliners that landed in a small town in Canada. Passengers were met with food and shelter and given the opportunity to contact their families and see the news. To thank this small town for their generosity, scholarships and donations were given to the local school.

 Two novels available for adults are The Devils Light by Richard North Patterson which is the story of an operative with knowledge of a nuclear threat who must convince the CIA and the White House that he can track the movements and stop the threat to prevent a second terrorist attack on the anniversary of 9/11.

 Ashes of Fiery Weather by Kathleen Donohoe follows the women in a family of firefighters from Ireland to post 9/11 Brooklyn. The book shares their loves and losses through six generations.

 Manistee County Library offers 30,000 Stitches: the Inspiring Story of the National 9/11 Flag by Amanda Davis which teaches children about the power of community and healing. After the 9/11 attacks, the American flag that had flown near ground zero was taken down and put into storage. Eight years later, the New York Says Thank You Foundation took it with them to a region in Kansas that had been devastated by a tornado.

 Branches of Hope: The 9/11 Survivor Tree by Ann Magee and This Very Tree: a Story of 9/11, Resilience & Growth by Sean Rubin both tell the story of a Callery Pear tree that was planted in 1973 when the twin towers opened. Found under the rubble, after the attacks, the tree had somehow survived. It was moved to Brooklyn and cared for until it was strong enough to be moved back to the 9/11 Memorial where it stands today.

 Ground Zero by Alan Gratz is a chapter book that follows two children, one a young boy with his father in the World Trade Center during the attacks and the other a young Afghan girl helping to care for a wounded American soldier present day as they question the world around them.

 All We Have Left, the young adult novel by Wendy Mills begins with Jessie dealing with her grief after losing her brother when the twin towers collapsed. Unable to reach out to her father, she turns to new friends and makes a decision that will have long reaching consequences.

 Movie watchers might appreciate Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. The story follows a young boy who finds a key that belonged to his father and embarks on a journey to make sense of it and the loss of his father during the 9/11 attacks.

 12 Strong is set in the days immediately after 9/11. A special forces team is sent into Afghanistan to convince a local military group to join forces against the Taliban and Al-Qaeda allies.

Kim Jankowiak and Becca Brown of the Manistee County Library write the recurring On the Same Page feature that showcases the library's titles available surrounding a revolving topic. Jankowiak is a reference librarian and Brown is a circulation clerk for the library.
MANISTEE COUNTY  The following includes reports made to the Manistee County Sheriffs Office from Aug. 20-23.

All calls may not be reported. This is part of a lengthy report and is compiled by assistant editor Arielle Breen.

Aug. 20

 There was a report of an injured horse at 9:45 a.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 A phishing scam was reported at 11:15 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 A possible probation violation was reported at 11:50 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 A person had personal protection order questions at 1:06 p.m. in Copemish.

 Harassment was reported at 12:42 p.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 Deputies conducted a well-being check at 2:51 p.m. in Pleasanton Township.

 Trespassing was reported at 3:40 p.m. in Onekama Township.

 Trespassing was reported at 6:50 p.m. in Cleon Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 9:30 p.m. in Bear Lake Township.

Aug. 21

 A noise disturbance was reported at 12:06 a.m. in Norman Township.

 A vehicle-deer accident was reported at 9:13 p.m. in Manistee Township.

 Threats were reported at 11 p.m. in Springdale Township.

 Animal control was called to Springdale Township at 1:49 p.m..

Aug. 22

 A warrant arrest was made at 1:32 p.m. in Brethren.

 Deputies conducted a pill collection at 9 a.m. in Bear Lake Township.

 Deputies conducted a well-being check at 5:11 a.m. in Norman Township.

 A verbal domestic incident was reported at 9:25 p.m. in Cleon Township.

 Deputies assisted a citizen at 7:14 p.m. in Dickson Township.

 Deputies conducted a well-being check at 12:25 a.m. in Dickson Township.

 Deputies assisted Medic 5 with a suspicious person incident at 11:45 p.m. in Filer Township.

 Trespassing was reported in Onekama at 6:55 p.m.

Aug. 23

 A property damage crash was reported at 11 a.m. in Manistee Township.

 A verbal domestic incident was reported at 1:07 p.m. in Dickson Township.

 A boating crash was reported at 10:03 a.m. in the Manistee River channel.

 Assault was reported at 6:52 p.m. in Maple Grove Township.

 A person was reported as missing at 11:11 p.m. in Norman Township.

 A traffic hazard was reported at 7:33 p.m. in Manistee Township.

 A boating hazard was reported at 6:03 p.m. in Manistee Township.
MANILA, Philippines (AP)  The Philippines' governing party nominated President Rodrigo Duterte on Wednesday as its vice presidential candidate in next year's elections, a maneuver widely seen as an effort to keep the popular leader near the center of power while avoiding constitutional term limits.

The party's nominee for president, however, declined to run.

Duterte, 76, notorious for vulgar rhetoric and a crackdown on illegal drugs that has killed thousands of mostly petty suspects, told the national convention of his PDP-Laban party that he hopes this will allow me to continue serving the Filipino people and help lead the entire nation toward greater progress.

Duterte attended the convention in San Fernando City, north of the capital, Manila, in person while others attended online to observe COVID-19 health protocols. The party was the first to hold a convention to select candidates for the May 9 national elections.

Do you know why Ill be running for the vice presidency? Is it ambition? Maybe. But is it really a sense of love of country? Yes," Duterte told the gathering. "Is it really ... because I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving the direction? Maybe I can just help.

Dutertes popularity has remained strong despite the Philippines' struggles through the COVID-19 pandemic, with rising infections and death rates and a slow vaccine rollout.

Jean Encinas-Franco, a political science associate professor at the University of the Philippines, said the fact that Duterte has the audacity to run and the party nominated him indicates they've been emboldened by the approval and trust ratings of the president despite the bungling of the pandemic response.

Polls indicate strong support for Duterte running in tandem with his daughter, Sara Duterte, as the candidate for president  though he suggested he might step out of the vice presidential race if she announces a bid for the top job.

Sara Duterte, 43, is currently the mayor of Davao City and is a member of the regional HNP party, which she founded in 2018. She has supported her father's party at the national level.

Under Philippine law, the vice president is elected separately from the president and Dutertes party on Wednesday nominated his longtime ally and former aide Sen. Christopher Bong Go for the candidacy.

But Go, who had told the party at the end of August that he had decided not to run for president, in what analysts suggested was a move to pave the way for Sara Dutertes candidacy, declined the nomination.

I repeat, I am not interested to run for president in the coming election, he said in a statement. My whole heart and mind are focused on serving our countrymen and I have no desire to compete for the highest position in the country.

No alternative to Go was immediately named.

Philippine presidents are limited by the 1987 Constitution to a single six-year term. At least two former presidents, Joseph Estrada and Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, have made successful runs for lower public offices after serving as president, but not for vice president.

If Duterte goes ahead with his run, it will likely face court challenges from the opposition, though the Supreme Court has strongly supported the presidents moves in the past.

The constitution is not particularly clear whether the president running as vice president is legal or not, but what is clear is that its against the spirit of the particular constitutional provision banning the reelection of Philippine presidents," said Cleve V. Arguelles, a political scientist at De La Salle University in Manila.

"The provision ended up there because we dont want presidents ... to enjoy incumbent advantage in a presidential election. And by all means if he will be allowed to run as vice president, then he will have incumbent advantage.

Critics of Duterte say his bid for vice president is also an attempt to protect himself from possible prosecution by the International Criminal Court, which has said it found reason to believe crimes against humanity have been committed during Dutertes anti-drug crackdown.

Hours ahead of the convention, Sen. Panfilo Lacson of the Partido Reporma or Reform Party launched his candidacy for president, with Senate President Vicente Sotto III as his running mate. They vowed to give local governments more responsibility and to win back public trust in institutions.

Lacson lost his first bid for president to Arroyo in 2004.

A rival faction of PDP-Laban led by boxer and Senator Manny Pacquiao, who has been touted as a possible presidential candidate, will hold its convention later this month.

Another familiar name who has suggested he might announce a bid for president is Ferdinand Marcos Jr., son of the ousted dictator whose government was infamous for corruption.

___

Rising reported from Bangkok.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)  Federal and state lawyers will meet in North Dakota next week to negotiate a settlement for money that the state claims it spent on policing protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline.

North Dakota filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 2019, seeking to recover more than $38 million in damages from the monthslong pipeline protests almost five years ago.

State Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem and other state lawyers will meet with attorneys from the Corps and Justice Department at the federal courthouse in Bismarck on Sept. 16. U.S. Magistrate Judge Alice Senechal will preside over the negotiations, which are closed to the public.

We will know on the 16th if they are serious in settling, Stenehjem said.

Its the first sit-down meeting with state and federal lawyers to work out a settlement, Stenehjem said. Federal judges handling the case have strongly suggested the negotiations, he said.

If no settlement can be reached, a trial is set for May 1, 2023.

Thousands of pipeline opponents gathered in southern North Dakota in 2016 and early 2017, camping on federal land and often clashing with police. Hundreds were arrested over six months.

Stenehjem has long argued that the Corps allowed and sometimes encouraged protesters to illegally camp without a federal permit. The Corps has said protesters werent evicted due to free speech reasons.

The Army Corps of Engineers had argued that it has limited authority to enforce its rules and regulations on land it manages.

The $3.8 billion pipeline has been moving oil from the Dakotas through Iowa to Illinois since 2017 but remains mired in litigation.

The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe opposed the pipeline built by Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners over fears it would harm cultural sites and the tribes Missouri River water supply  claims rejected by the company and the state.

One year ago, a federal judge issued a ruling allowing North Dakota to proceed in its effort to recoup money the state spent on policing protests against the pipeline.

The Department of the Army then asked the Department of Justice to enter into negotiations with the state for the protest costs to avoid protracted and costly litigation, particularly in light of the harm that occurred in this case, according to a letter obtained by The Associated Press.

Stenehjem said negotiations have stalled since then.

Then-President Donald Trump in 2018 denied a state-requested disaster declaration to cover the states costs. The Justice Department later gave the state a $10 million grant for policing-related bills. The pipeline developer gave the state $15 million to help with the costs that were funded from loans from the state-owned Bank of North Dakota.

Stenehjem has said that money doesnt get the Corps off the hook for the states $38 million total cost of policing.
A teacher officially resigned after the school district he was working for said he had to remove the pride flag displayed in his classroom.

John M. Wallis, a graduate of Webster University in St. Louis, was a speech, theater and world mythology teacher for Neosho Junior High School in Neosho, Missouri  located about 23 miles south of Joplin.

Wallis took to social media to explain his resignation and the situation that resulted in his departure.

"At the beginning of the school year, I had two signs above my white boards that read, 'In This Classroom EVERYONE is Welcome' and an LGBTQ+ pride flag on my bookshelf," Wallis wrote on his Twitter page Sept. 4 after his resignation was official. "This was an attempt to make my classroom more open and welcoming for all of my students, and nothing was ever taught about the flag because it stood there as a reflection of my classroom as a safe space for my LGBTQIA+ students."

He then went on to explain what happened next.

"A parent called last week to complain that I was going to teach their child to be gay. I was then instructed to take my flag and signs down," Wallis tweeted. "In fact, the use of the pride flag in my classroom was compared to hanging the confederate flag in my classroom."

According to the Kansas City Star, which spoke with Wallis, he removed the sign and the flag. When students inquired as to why, his response advised to find another class if they didn't approve of the flag representing him (Wallis told the Star he has been openly gay since his senior year of college) or students who identify with the LGBTQ+ community.

Wallis said that led more parents calling to complain and to a meeting with the superintendent.

His employment was eventually threatened with termination, so he turned in his notice.

Wallis has reported this to the U.S. Department of Education's civil rights office, but there is no word on its response.

"... if youre a straight teacher, you can talk about your spouse, your kids, you can have a picture of your family in the classroom, but I have a flag and then all of a sudden theres a problem. You know, it didnt make any sense, Wallis told the Star.

The Neosho school district hasn't provided much comment as they refer to this matter as a personnel issue.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriffs Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Andrew Mullin.

Thursday, Sept. 2

11:07 p.m.  A deputy was sent to M-20 for a be on the lookout from Isabella County of a vehicle tailgate open and what appeared to be a leg hanging out of the back. The vehicle was located and stopped in Lee Township. The vehicle was transporting a load of wood and that was partially sticking out the back of the hatch.

9:51 p.m.  Officers responded to a vehicle crash in the area of E. U.S. 10 and Stark Road.

9:17 p.m.  Officers responded to a trespassing on Jerome Street.

9:17 p.m.  A deputy was sent to a Lee Township home for a report of a personal protection order (PPO) violation. Upon arrival, contact was made with the complainant and they were advised the PPO had expired. The complainant stated they would be seeking a new PPO.

9:07 p.m.  A deputy responded to an Edenville Township neighborhood for a report of shots fired. The deputy checked the area and was unable to hear any disturbance or shots being fired.

8:30 p.m.  Officers responded to a vehicle crash in the area of North Saginaw Road and Wellness Drive.

7:59 p.m.  Officers made a warrant arrest on North Saginaw Road.

6:24 p.m.  A 53-year-old Hope Township male contacted the sheriff's office after his computer had been hacked. The man did not sustain any financial loss and only wished to document the incident.

5:11 p.m.  Officers responded to a trespassing on Tucker Street.

2:05 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to the Midland County Jail for an alleged assault that occurred between two inmates. Deputies contacted a 34-year-old Beaverton male who advised he was assaulted by a 39-year-old Coleman male. Deputies gathered statements from both individuals. A report was sent to the Midland Prosecuting Attorneys Office for review.

1:08 p.m.  A deputy was dispatched to Ingersoll Township to assist with a 52-year-old male they wanted to transport to the hospital for mental health treatment. They had a continuing order for mental health treatment and the male was fine going with them to the hospital. The male was transported to the emergency department by Community Mental Health without incident.

1:01 p.m.  Officers responded to a hit-and-run crash on North Saginaw Road.

12:47 p.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on South Saginaw Road.

11:20 a.m.  A deputy responded to a residential alarm in Lee Township. While on scene, the deputy did not notice anything suspicious, and dispatch got a cancellation from the alarm company.

9:56 a.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle injury crash on West Indian Street.

9:24 a.m.  Deputy dispatched to an Edenville Township residence reference a dog complaint. A 71-year-old female reported her 62-year-old female neighbor's dog charged her dog last night and it took two adults to restrain the aggressive dog. The deputy contacted the 62-year-old female about the incident and was advised that she is returning the dog to the Humane Society today. There was nobody injured during the incident and the 71-year-old female only wanted the incident documented in case it ever happened again.

6:23 p.m.  Officers responded to a vehicle crash in the area of Eastman Avenue and Dilloway Drive.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriffs Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Andrew Mullin.

Saturday, Sept. 4:

11:57 p.m.  Officers responded to an assault on Cinema Boulevard.

11:45 p.m. -- Deputies conducted a traffic stop at a Jerome Township location. Deputies contacted the 37-year-old female driver. Upon further investigation, it was discovered that the female did not have a valid driver's license. She was cited for DWLS and no proof of insurance, and a report is being sent to the Prosecuting Attorneys Office.

9:53 p.m.  Officers made a warrant arrest on Kingsbury Court.

9:51 p.m.  Officers responded to an assault on West Carpenter Street.

9:47 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to an Ingersoll Township residence for a death investigation of a 90-year-old Ingersoll Township male. The deputies found nothing suspicious, and the death was determined to be from natural causes.

7:54 p.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Eastman Avenue.

6:51 p.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash in the area of North Saginaw Road and Orchard Drive.

5:13 p.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Eastman Avenue.

3:37 p.m.  A 70-year-old Hope Township male complained of people on quad runners tearing up the roadway. Deputy checked the roadway, and it was not damaged. Deputy spoke with mother of those using the quad runners and asked that the subjects use more caution when turning around at the end of the roadway.

12:41 p.m.  Officers responded to a case of retail fraud on Bay City Road.

12:38 p.m.  A 53-year-old resident complained that his neighbors chickens keep coming into his yard and damaging it. The male was advised to contact animal control to see if there was something that they can do to assist him.

12:03 p.m.  A 27-year-old reported that her 31-year-old ex-boyfriend refused her custody of their daughter. No court custody order has been established and both parties were advised to contact the friend of the court regarding a custody agreement.

11:47 a.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Swede Avenue.

10:39 a.m.  A 67-year-old Sanford male reported that an unknown suspect attempted to break into his Homer Township business. Nothing was taken.

9:25 a.m.  Officers responded to a domestic verbal situation on Swede Avenue.

3:01 a.m.  Deputies received a second complaint in Jerome Township regarding a pickup truck that was stopping in different driveways and speeding up and down the roadway. The deputies remained in the area for an extended period of time, but the vehicle was not located.

2:37 a.m.  Officers responded to a case of domestic violence on Carpenter Street.

Friday, Sept. 3:

11:36 p.m.  A deputy was dispatched to a Jerome Township location regarding a pickup truck that was stopping in different driveways and speeding up and down the roadway. The deputy checked the area, but the vehicle was not located.

11:30 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to a Lincoln Township residence regarding an 82-year-old male who was hallucinating, possibly due to a recent change in his prescription medications. The male was transported to the Midland ER by ambulance for an evaluation.

10:13 p.m.  A 16-year-old Lee Township girl reported that while gaming online, she heard a man make suspicious statements about his wellbeing. Through the investigation, the information was turned over to Decatur Police Department for further investigation.

10:03 p.m.  Officers responded to a case of domestic violence on Wooden Shoe Drive.

10:02 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to a Homer Township residence regarding an unwanted person. The 34-year-old Homer Township male advised that his 31-year-old soon-to-be ex-wife, of Midland Township, had been standing in his yard for multiple hours and he wanted her to leave. The 34-year-old female advised she would leave and then left the residence.

9:17 p.m. Midland Township A deputy made telephone contact with a Larkin Township female, who stated her landlord/ex-boss was trying to force her to leave her residence. Contact was made with the landlord/ex-boss, who stated they were in the process of legally evicting the female.

8:36 p.m.  Officers responded to a domestic verbal situation on Ripley Street.

6:42 p.m.  Officers responded to a vehicle crash West Wackerly Street and Eastman Avenue.

4:41 p.m.  Deputies assisted Michigan State Police with attempting to locate a 22-year-old Porter Township male who was wanted on numerous warrants out of multiple jurisdictions.

12:51 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to Larkin Township regarding an unwanted guest call. Deputies contacted a 71-year-old Larkin Township male and his 73-year-old wife, who advised that their 29-year-old homeless grandson was asleep in their basement. They asked that the male be removed from the property. Deputies contacted the male, who left the residence when requested. The male was given a trespass warning from deputies and from the male complainant.

12:24 p.m.  Officers responded to a two-vehicle crash on Eastman Avenue.

12:15 p.m.  A deputy was dispatched to Lincoln Township after a 17-year-old Lincoln Township female reported two suspicious people at her house. The suspects were gone upon the deputys arrival.

11:04 a.m.  Officers revoked a driver's license on Joe Mann Boulevard.

9:01 a.m.  A 70-year-old male reported that an unknown vehicle struck his mailbox. The male reported $20 in damage to the wooden support post.

1:58 a.m.  A 39-year-old Midland Township mother reported that her 14-year-old son had run away. The mother later located her son and he was returned home.

12:03 a.m.  A deputy was dispatched to a Mills Township location for a report of a vehicle that was traveling all over the roadway. A deputy conducted a stop on a vehicle on a Mills Township location. The 35-year-old Kawkawlin female driver was subsequently arrested for operating while intoxicated.
Leon Jones passed away at his home in Dallas, Texas. He is preceded in death by his twin brother Louis Jones, a son Timothy Jones and his father Elmer Jones. He is survived by his sister, Katie Jones Hodges of Dallas, Texas, a brother Calvin Jones of Dallas and locally by his sister Lois Jon
During the July 12 meeting of the Palestine City Council, Teresa Herrera was named city manager. The proposal passed by a vote of 4-3.

Check back with the Herald-Press for the full story.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The prime minister of the National Unity Government, Abdelhamid Al-Dbaiba, discussed with Tunisian President Kais Saied the opening of the border crossings between their countries, an official statement said here Thursday
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - Two senior Libyan officials have discussed cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Border Guards to protect the country's borders
Cainiao Network, the logistics arm of Chinese retailer Alibaba Group, has unveiled plans to expand its locker network throughout Spain and France.

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Cainiaos network currently comprises 170 lockers in Madrid and Barcelona, as well as 80 lockers in Paris. The project will grow the network to 2,000 lockers across the two countries, extending to major cities such as Lyon, Bordeaux and Lille, by the end of March 2022.

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The locker network will enable Cainiao to provide a contactless logistics service with flexible pick-up times for consumers shopping on AliExpress, Alibabas online marketplace.

David Bu, general manager of Cainiao Network Europe, said, Spain and France are two key European markets for Cainiao, so it is of utmost importance for us to continuously improve customer experience in these countries, while also reducing their carbon footprint. This reflects Cainiaos commitment to providing more eco-friendly smart logistics solutions that can support sustainable economic growth.

The retailers European operations are currently supported by its smart eHub located at Liege Airport in Belgium, as well as an intra-Europe trucking network that covers more than 30 European countries. The locker network is the latest step in strengthening its logistics infrastructure across Europe. Cainiao has also incorporated smart order consolidation into its shipping process, which combines multiple packages from various AliExpress merchants for a single consumer to improve logistics efficiency and reduce shipping fees.
Photo: (Photo : LOIC VENANCE/AFP via Getty Images)

The Mu variant was first detected in Colombia, Chile, Peru, and some parts of the United States, where 2,000 cases have been logged as of September 3. It is the latest coronavirus variant under the radar of health experts everywhere, including the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data, the Mu variant has spread in California, Florida, New York, and Texas after first being detected in Colombia in early 2021. For now, Mu is a "variant of concern" but not in the levels of the Delta variant, which now accounts for 99 percent of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. Yet top health officials, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, have revealed they are keeping close watch over this latest virus mutation.

"It's still early and difficult to measure how infectious and how effective the Mu variant is," Stuart Ray of John Hopkins University said. "But the world is a small place during the pandemic, so we're staying vigilant."

Read Also: The Delta Variant of COVID-19: What Parents Should Do To Protect Their Kids

How Far Has Mu Spread?

As of the end of August, WHO said that the Mu variant, also known as B.1.621, was tracked in 40 countries, but only about 0.1 percent of this variant has been linked to infections. It appears that the sequenced cases are in clusters where infection rates are consistently going up.

The WHO said that the Mu variant is still no match to the Delta variant, which is more contagious and virulent as it impacts over 170 countries. Thus, most health experts worldwide remain focused on Delta cases because of the recent surges.

Nevertheless, WHO officials warned that, based on preliminary data, Mu appears to have properties of the E484K and K417N mutations that it could potentially evade antibodies, which means that it might be immune to vaccines. However, more studies have yet to be done to understand the new variant's characteristics.

For now, existing vaccines used in preventing severe symptoms of COVID-19 -- such as Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson and Johnson in the U.S. -- still work against the different variants. The experts said that breakthrough cases among fully vaccinated individuals might occur in 1 in 5,000 individuals. The majority of patients in hospitals today are unvaccinated people.

How to Protect Against Mu

Thus, the experts continue to recommend vaccination as the most effective prevention against contracting the Mu variant. Additional preventive measures, such as wearing a face mask and social distancing in crowded places, even for fully vaccinated individuals, still hold up well, especially in cities or counties with high transmissions.

Dr. Barbara Ferrer of the Los Angeles Public Health Office, where most cases of Mu have been detected in the U.S., said layering protections and getting vaccinated can "break the chain of transmission" and limit COVID-19 from proliferating and mutating into another variant that could become more dangerous and deadly.

Dr. Ashish Jha of the Brown University School of Public Health said people should "not lose sleep over the emerging variants." Hospital workers are more concerned over the impact of Delta in the healthcare system.

Related Article: CDC Mask Guidelines: New Recommendation Requires Masking Indoors, Including Fully Vaccinated People
Photo: (Photo : John Moore/Getty Images)

A childless couple from Virginia was left heartbroken after they were forced to return their adopted daughter to her biological parents because they changed their minds.

Chris and Sarah Howell have been having a hard time conceiving a baby, so they turned to adoption to fulfill their dreams of having a family. Sarah relayed that they were thrilled to be matched with a newborn and enjoyed their new baby for five days when an unexpected call broke her heart.

The adoptive mom said she couldn't believe it when the social worker told them that the birth parents realized they made a mistake and wanted their daughter back. The pain of losing the child was so deep that it felt like an "actual death."

The devastating experience happened in 2018, just days before Sarah found out that she was miraculously pregnant. Doctors have previously informed that couple that their chances of naturally conceiving were at one percent since Sarah suffered from endometriosis.

Read Also: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Husband' Overjoyed' About Becoming Fathers

Not Grudge Against the Birth Parents

Sarah found out about her pregnancy days before her adopted daughter arrived, and she was worried that losing her would trigger a miscarriage. However, she told the New York Post that she felt no grudge against the birth parents.

The mom was still hopeful she could get in touch with the couple who decided to get their baby back if only to tell them how much they loved their baby girl, even if the Howells only spent a short time with her.

"She made us parents," Sarah said. "She helped heal a part of our hearts that infertility broke."

Months later, Sarah and Chris welcomed their biological son, Noah, who renewed their hope for a family. More than a year before Noah's arrival, Sarah experienced depression as she realized they couldn't have a family. She said that her husband was more positive about their life together, but they had to get through marriage counseling so she could deal with her grief.

For three years, the pair tried to have a baby and went through several surgeries and treatments. Each negative pregnancy test plunged Sarah into despair until the adoption broke their hearts all over again.

Another Adoption After Noah

When Noah turned one year old, the Howells received another call from a social worker who wondered if they would love to be the adoptive parents of a baby boy. Fearing a similar experience with their first adoption, Sarah was cautious and fearful that the baby would be taken away from them again.

However, Levi stayed with the family and is now growing up with Noah. In June, the Howells also fostered another baby boy.

Sarah said that their house has been very active with three boys under three years old. While it takes her forever to clean up after the kids, she doesn't forget to reflect on the fact that this was their prayer for so long. The mom said that the laughter in the house outweighs anything that they've been through as parents.

Related Article: Pennsylvania Parents Adopted Their Son's Best Friend Who Was In Foster Care
Photo: (Photo : Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

A nonpartisan senior group is calling on Congress to distribute a fourth stimulus check meant for older Americans so that they could keep their expenses at bay amid the rising cost of living.

The Senior Citizens League (TSCL) said that next year's Social Security cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) could increase to 6.2 percent, compared to just 1.3 percent in 2021, based on the data from the Consumer Price Index. The group said that while potentially good news, the increase will likely burn into their savings or retirement benefits because their Medicare premiums and other expenses will also increase in 2022.

The organization sent out emails to members to gather their inputs about their plan to file an official petition in Congress to request a fourth stimulus check for senior citizens for $1,400. More than 100 have written back in response to the email, with some seniors sharing their stories of financial struggles.

Read Also: Child Tax Credit: Mariana Islands Families Receive First Claims Under the American Rescue Plan

Growing Cost of Food, Medicine, and Housing

Despite three stimulus checks in this pandemic, the seniors revealed that they had to cut down on their prescription drugs and grocery expenses and limit their food intake to one meal a day to save on money. In a survey undertaken by TSCL in August, 44 percent of the senior respondents said that their fastest-growing expenses for 2021 were food, while housing (24 percent) and medical (19 percent) took up most of their budget.

While many people might assume 6.2 percent is a blessing, Patrick Hubbard of the Center for Retirement Research in Boston said that this money is not additional income. If the COLA increases to six percent, then everything else will also be expensive.

Retirement benefits are also not protected by tax thresholds, meaning more beneficiaries could be taxed over time. Thus, senior citizens need to maintain their purchasing power by either cutting down on their necessities or getting a boost from the government.

Latest on Fourth Stimulus Check

Meanwhile, millions of Americans are still in financial distress as the Delta COVID-19 variant continues to impact jobs security, food security, and the country's general economic recovery. According to CBS News, a quarter of Americans still have trouble paying their bills and basic household expenses for August.

The unemployment rate in the U.S. has not yet dropped to pre-pandemic levels, which means that many parents are still struggling to make ends meet despite the funding boosts from the government, including the child tax credit for parents. After Labor Day, 9.1 million Americans also lost their emergency unemployment benefits, adding to the burden of sourcing money for basic expenses like food and rent.

In early 2021, a petition on Change.Org received over 2.8 million signatures asking lawmakers to pass a new law for $2,000 monthly federal stimulus checks until the pandemic is over. Some Democratic senators support the petition, saying that the previous stimulus checks could not last for three months for 6 in 10 Americans.

Related Article: Fourth Stimulus Check: Residents of These States May Expect Relief Money
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President Nana Addo Akufo-Addo says Ghana is ready to partner any well-meaning entity towards industrialisation for more jobs and economic empowerment under the One District, One Factory initiative.



"Our country doesn't believe in discrimination... be it a Ghanaian or foreign business, we are prepared to support, under our 1DIF, to grow our local economies," the President explained, when he commissoned the third phase of KEDA Ghana Ceramics Company.



He also cut the sod for the fourth phase for the operational expansion of the project.



The third and fourth phases are to provide 2000 more jobs to the locals.



The President, consequently, lauded the visionary leadership, the enterprising approach and hard work of the management of the Company, which had brought the business thus far.



Keda (Ghana) Ceramics Company Limited, formerly called Twyford Ghana Ceramics, is located in the Shama District of the Western Region.



It produces and distributes assorted tiles and plans to add basins and other sanitary wares to the production line.



President Akufo-Addo said, "We appreciate your commitment to our country...we shall justify that confidence in us".



He urged them to continue to expand their frontiers, especially with the African Continental Free Trade Area, headquartered in Ghana, to penetrate the ECOWAS market and even beyond.



He pledged to lead a focused country, with a cause to implement good economic policies that would inure to the well-being of all citizens.



He thus prayed for industrial harmony to ensure that the sky became the stepping stone for Ghana's industrialisation drive.



The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Michael Okyere Baafi, emphasised the Government's commitment to ensure that more industries were established to create jobs.



"We are ready and open to private sector engagements in furtherance of this," he added.



The Western Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensah, lauded the company for employing over 2000 locals to give hope to the hitherto unemployed individuals.



The Managing Director of the Company, Mr. Lorry Li, expressed gratitude to the President for the continual support, saying, "This demonstrates your personal interest in our company and the industrialisation drive for the good people of Ghana."



The vision of the company, he said, was to become the premier producer of ceramic tiles and to make Ghana the industrial hub of Africa in order to meet the demand for Africa, America, and the European Markets.



"This vision was a promise we made to you and the good people of Ghana during the commissioning of our first phase and second phase in January 2018 and September 2019, respectively."



The completion of the fourth phase will increase production capacity to 150,000 square meters per day, which is expected to increase revenue generation for the government through the payment of taxes.



The factory, which is into the production and distribution of tiles, would operate at a designed production capacity of 14.4 million square metres per year with annual sales.



The factory, a subsidiary of Sunda (MU) Holdings Limited, a Chinese company, is a boost to the 1D1F initiative.





Source: GNA









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Managing Director of KEDA (Ghana) Ceramics Company Limited Mr. Li Wei has revealed that plans are far-reaching to fully take advantage of African Continental Free Trade Agreement to expand distribution networks to South Africa and Egypt.



Established in 2017, the company has been manufacturing ceramics tiles, completing the first, second phases and commissioning the third phase of expansion today under the 1D1F flagship programme by Akufo-Addo government.



Speaking at the commissing of the phase III and sod cutting of phase IV of KEDA (Ghana) Ceramics Company Ltd, a subsidiary of Twyford in Shama, MD Mr. Li Wei said Well commission the fourth phase and six phase next year to become the biggest ceramics tiles producer in the whole of West Africa. Well take advantage of ACFTA to scale up our supply chain to South Africa and Egypt.



With Ghana hard-hit by infectious Covid-19 pandemic with its devastating impacts to businesses, the company hard its fair share of the challenges imposed by the disease.



Despite this, the company now produces total capacity of 100,000 square meters of tiles daily, with 2000 direct employment and 3000 indirect employments.



Li Wei noted that Were able to succeed because of good policies, business-friendly environment and some supports from government.



Apart from domestic markets, the company also exports to Togo, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Benin, Niger, Mali and other AU member states.







Source: africaneditors.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Education Ministry says there is no food shortage in Senior High Schools (SHSs) across the country.



According to the Deputy Minister for Education, Reverend John Ntim Forjour, speculations being peddled around that there was a food shortage in certain SHSs were unfortunate and an attempt to create a negative impression against the Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo flagship programme which had been accepted by the nation and the rest of the world.



The Deputy Minister made the denial on Monday to the media after an unannounced visit to some selected SHSs in the Greater Accra region.



Some of the schools visited by the Deputy Minister were O' Reilly SHS, Tema SHS and Achimota SHS.



The visit was aimed at ascertaining the fact about speculations by a section of the media that some SHS had run short of food.



Again, the visit was also used to wish candidates writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) well and encourage them to work hard to get the best results at the end of the examinations.



Background



The General Secretary of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), Mr Thomas Musah in 2018 granted an interview on TV 3 where he complained about the shortage of food in some SHSs in the country then.



Three years after the interview, the said video keeps popping up and creating the impression that there is food shortage in the schools.



Denial



When the Education Ministry called the General Secretary of GNAT to pinpoint the specific schools for a follow-up, he denied granting such an interview again and expressed surprise at the video and admitted that the circulating video was an old tape.



He was upbeat that with the current response measures put in place by the Ministry, the issue of food shortage had not been a challenge again.



In a related development, the Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, last Thursday evening embarked on a surprising visit to the Presbyterian Boys Senior High School (PRESEC) Legon to interact with the students and staff.



It was fun seeing the Education Minister spending time with first-year students of the school during prep.



The visit gave the Minister the opportunity to assess how their evening studies were organized as he had the opportunity to teach mathematics in one of the classrooms.

Source: BBC









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The worlds first and only national-scale drone delivery service, Zipline, has announced the start of the delivery of a new shipment of AstraZeneca vaccines donated by the UK to selected health facilities from four of its distribution centers across Ghana.



The UK shipment of 249,000 doses AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines from the UK arrived in Accra on Wednesday 18 August.



The vaccines formed part of a broader pledge made by the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson at the G7 meeting in June, which will see the UK share 100 million jabs with the rest of the world, of which 80% will be through COVAX.



This follows the successful delivery of several shipments of vaccines from the COVAX Facility that Ghana received earlier this year.



The Government of Ghana has been leveraging Ziplines autonomous medical drone services to ensure rapid and equitable access across the country since the start of the COVID-19 vaccination program in March this year.



Nearly half of Ghana's population lives outside of cities, and those 12 million people are difficult to reach with time-limited, cold chain-dependent vaccines.



Ziplines network strengthens Ghanas medical products distribution strategy by ensuring equitable and efficient distribution of medical supplies, even during health emergencies.



The drone deliveries by Zipline is focusing on remote and hard-to-reach areas in Eastern, Western North and five regions in the Northern part of Ghana



"It is really exciting news for us to see how the instant logistics service Zipline has perfected over the years is being deployed across the country as a response to managing this global pandemic. We, at Zipline, agree that no-one is safe until everyone is safe, that is why we are honoured to be part of the efforts of the government in making access to the COVID-19 vaccines hassle free, the General Manager of Zipline Ghana, Naa Adorkor Yawson, stated.



Here again, our partnership with Ghanas Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service has enabled the country to take lead in not only using drones to break the barrier of access to this critical vaccine, but also using our infrastructure to enable equity in healthcare provision, she added.



Zipline's Sefwi Wiawso distribution center will be the sole distributor of COVID-19 vaccines in the whole of the countrys Western North Region.



As part of our agreement with the Government of Ghana, Zipline will be the sole distributor of these vaccines across all dosing centers in the entire Western North Region. With this, we can rest and be assured of safe and on-demand delivery to all the locations mapped out for us by the Ministry of Health through the Ghana Health Service. We have, for almost a year now, been the sole distributor of all the programmed immunization vaccines in the region and this addition rightly proves what we are able to do, said Kwasi Owusu Antwi, Health Systems Integration and Governmental Affairs Lead for Zipline.



Commenting on Ziplines innovative and vital work, the British High Commissioner to Ghana, Harriet Thompson said: Ziplines game-changing technology means that the UK-donated vaccines that arrived in Accra only three weeks ago, have already reached front-line health workers, vulnerable people most at risk from infection and those waiting for their vital second jab."



The UK is very proud to play a key part in the partnership between Ghana and Zipline as we continue to overcome and build back better from COVID-19.



Some communities, including Etse in the Afram Plains district, have already taken delivery of the vaccines with about one-hundred other vaccination centers expected to receive theirs, on-demand, before the end of this week.



Ghanas Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service have been key collaborators in the continuous success of the on-demand delivery of medical commodities and the COVID-19 vaccines across the country, especially to the hard-to-reach areas.



Zipline & Ghana Partnership & COVID-19 Response



Ghana first partnered with Zipline in 2019, setting up its on-demand logistics service in four strategic locations to cover approximately half of the population and some of the countrys hardest-to-reach areas. Since 2019, Zipline Ghana has completed over 105,000 deliveries, distributing more than 1 million medical commodities and over 3 million vaccine doses (including for covid-19 and childhood diseases).



In April 2020, Zipline began delivering COVID-19 test samples to Accra and Kumasi. This marked the first time in history that autonomous drones had been used to make regular long-range deliveries into densely populated urban areas. It was also the first time that drones had been used in this way to deliver COVID-19 test samples.



In December 2020, Ghana also deployed Zipline to rapidly distribute personal protective equipment (PPE) to Ghanas poll workers for the presidential election. In less than 24 hours of receiving the request for assistance from the government, Zipline began delivering PPE, and in under 48 hours delivered PPE across the country, enabling polling locations to open safely and hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians to vote.



How Zipline Works



Each week, a single Zipline distribution center - a combination of medical fulfillment warehouse and drone airport - is capable of the on-demand delivery of more than two tons of temperature-controlled medicine to any point across an almost 8,000 square mile service area. Each aircraft can fly 100 miles round trip, in strong winds and rain, day or night, to make on-demand deliveries in 30 to 45 minutes on average. Ziplines drones have flown more than 12 million autonomous miles to deliver more than 2 million doses of vaccines, units of blood, and critical and life-saving medications to more than a thousand health facilities serving more than 25 million people across three countries. In the United States, Zipline has partnered with a leading healthcare system, Novant Health, on the country's first drone logistics operation by a hospital system for pandemic response. To date, Novant Health has utilized Zipline to make contactless drone distribution of more than 18,000 units of PPE to frontline medical teams around Charlotte, North Carolina. Zipline recently announced that it will soon launch medical delivery services in Kaduna State and Cross River State in Nigeria as its footprint grows across Africa.



About Zipline



Zipline is the worlds only national-scale, instant drone delivery service. Its mission is to provide every human on Earth with instant access to vital medical supplies. Zipline designs, assembles, and operates its unmanned aircraft system in the United States and is progressing towards FAA type certification of its drones and air carrier certification for its US operations. The most respected investors in the world support Zipline, including Temasek, Baillie Gifford, Sequoia Capital, Andreessen Horowitz, GV, The Rise Fund, a global impact fund managed by TPG, Katalyst Ventures, Toyota Tsusho Corporation, and Stanford University.



UK vaccine support



The UK has been at the forefront of the global response to COVID-19, including through investing 90 million to support the development of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine. More than half a billion doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine have been delivered at a non-profit price globally, with two-thirds going to lower and middle-income countries.



At the meeting of G7 leaders hosted in the UK in June, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson pledged to share 100 million jabs with the rest of the world, of which 80% will be through COVAX. The UK has already donated around 5 million vaccine doses to COVAX and 3 million of these doses will be sent to countries across Africa. Apart from Ghana Nigeria, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Ethiopia are among the countries to already receive vaccines.



The UK kick-started efforts to establish COVAX in 2020, providing a total of 548 million to fund vaccines for lower income countries. The scheme has delivered more than 152 million vaccine doses to over 137 countries and territories, including in 83 lower-middle income countries. 65% of the initial vaccine doses have been Oxford-AstraZeneca.



About COVAX



COVAX, the vaccines pillar of the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, is co-led by CEPI, Gavi and WHO  working in partnership with developed and developing country vaccine manufacturers, UNICEF, the World Bank, and others. It is the only global initiative that is working with governments and manufacturers to ensure COVID-19 vaccines are available worldwide to both high-income and lower-income countries.

COVAX aims to deliver 1.8 billion COVID-19 vaccines to lower-income countries around the world by early 2022.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
The quality of air in Ghanas capital, Accra, remains poor and high above national standards and World Health Organisation (WHO) requirements, Dr Henry K. Kokofu, the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency, has said.



Contributors to poor air quality include mining, forestry, cement, manufacturing industries, vehicle emissions, and waste burning.



The EPA Boss said though there had been some improvement, the current pollution level was more than the national standard of 35 microgrammes per cubic meter of air and WHOs yardstick of 10 microgrammes per cubic meter of air.



Speaking at a ceremony to mark this years International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, Dr Kokofu said air pollution affected the quality of life and caused cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, upper and lower respiratory tract infections.



The United Nations event, which was on the theme, Healthy Air, Healthy Planet, sought to prioritize the need for healthy air for all, while keeping conversations broad enough to encompass other critical issues such as climate change, human and planetary health, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals.



Dr Kokofu said EPA in 2015 estimated that 2,800 lives were lost due to the effects of air pollution and that the number could increase to 4,600 by 2030 if urgent action was not taken.



In the Ghanaian context, the economic cost associated with air pollution is estimated at US$2.5bn or an equivalent of 4.2 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (World Bank Country Environmental Analysis, 2019), he said.



Dr Kokofu said as part of efforts to reduce air pollution, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) through the EPA and other collaborating Ministries and Agencies had taken steps to develop a comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, Fuel Quality Standards and Standards for Vehicle Emissions.



He said the Ministry and EPA with support from the World Bank was implementing the Pollution Management and Environmental Health programme to collect real-time regulatory data for health impact assessment and decision making.



The Executive Director noted that MESTI in collaboration with EPA and other partners had completed the installation of state-of-the-art air quality devices at the University of Ghana, Adabraka and Dansoman to further control Air Pollution in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA).



Mr Mohammed Adjei Sowah, the Metropolitan Chief Executive Officer of Accra, said poor air quality was one of the top public health challenges that the local Assembly was working to address.



He said available data indicated that 1,400 people died of poor air quality in Accra alone, explaining that the figure could increase if adequate measures were not taken to keep air pollution low.



The Accra Metropolitan Assembly, he said, as part of efforts to address the situation had collaborated with some academic institutions to install sensors to gather data on air quality, embarked on tree planting in the city, beautification public sensitization, and safe waste disposal.

Source: GNA









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The government is determined to ensure that by the year 2023, 5.7 million Ghanaians are put onto its ongoing water projects across the country.



She said these included water projects in Keta, Damongo, Tamale Water, Sekondi, Wenchi, Yendi and Sunyani.



According to Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources (MSWR), Mrs Cecilia Abena, this was no mean achievement.



That is why I am proud to say that the government is on track to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 for water and sanitation, she averred.



Mrs Dapaah was speaking to the media on Wednesday, September 8, 2021, during a working visit to the Keta Water Supply System in Keta in the Volta Region.



The working first afforded the minister and her entourage, who included her deputy, Mr Amidu Issahaku Chinnia, the chance to inspect progress of work on the Keta water project.



The minister, who was delighted at the progress of work on the Keta water system, commended the contractors, consultants and the municipal chief executive for the area.



She said in the case of Wenchi water project, the contractors were on-site, while for Tamale, Damongo water projects, value for money had been done, stating that all the sod-cutting we did last year are bearing fruits.



We are also doing value for money for Sunyani, Sekondi Takoradi water projects, she added.



However, she warned that no agency should be seen impeding the progress of the work.



The Keta water project, she said, was taken to Cabinet by her outfit, and then Parliament gave its approval which finally saw President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo okay it.



Value for money was done. So everything is under scrutiny and we pray that the 30 months given for the execution of the project would be adhered to so that they will be no delays, she intimated.



She added that her outfit also insists on quality of work, hence commended the chiefs and traditional rulers for their supportive role, especially in the provision of land for the project.



In this regard, Mrs Dapaah urged the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) in the area to ensure that compensations are paid to persons affected by the water project.



We dont want any hitches that will bring about delays, she noted.



She was also happy that provision has been made for workers to stay on site to ensure that the project is completed on schedule.

It is also good that we have workers staying on-site, and also to hear that the old bungalows are going to be rehabilitated and made fit for purpose for the workers, she expressed.



She indicated that expansion works will be carried on the water plant built in the year 1996, which benefit will inure to over 422,000 people.



Mrs Dapaah affirmed that the governments mantra of water for all was not just a slogan.



If people say we are sloganeering it is not true. It is not factual; everything that we say we try to do them. So work has started and very soon we will see action here, she assured.



She reiterated that the doors of her ministry were always opened to GWCL staff members at the site, contractors and consultants on the project and the DCE.



This, she pointed out, was key because it was an ongoing project, adding that it is the policy of government to make sure that all hamlets and towns en route of our [water] projects are served.



The District Chief Executive (DCE) for South Tongu, Emmanuel Lewis Agamah, said among communities that will benefit from the Keta Water Supply System include Agordome. Sogakope, Atiavi, Dabala, Lolito and Galosota.



The rest, he said, are Salo, Agottoe, Anloga, Woe, Tegbi, Dzelukope and Keta.



For his part, the acting General Manager of GWCL at Keta, Dr Remy Puoru, was full of praise for the government following its initiative to rehabilitate the Keta water project.

Source: Peacefmonline.com/ghana









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Mr. Joe Danquah, the Chief Executive Officer of the Middle Belt Development Authority (MBDA) has expressed worry about abandoned work on some projects being executed by the Authority, under the governments One Million dollar per constituency initiative in parts of the country.



He, therefore, gave a two-week ultimatum to contractors working on the abandoned projects to resume work or their contracts would be terminated, saying the Authority would serve notices to the recalcitrant contractors in that regard.



Mr. Danquah told Journalists during an inspection visit to assess the progress of work on the construction of classroom blocks, durbar grounds, markets, toilets and health facilities in the Jaman North District and Wenchi Municipality of the Bono Region on Tuesday.



The Authority is executing similar projects in 109 districts and municipalities in the country.



Established in 2017 by Act 962 of Parliament, the MBDA exercises its mandate in five regions  Ashanti, Bono East, Bono, Ahafo and Eastern Regions, and it is the main vehicle for spearheading the development of these regions.



Mr. Danquah explained the government had prioritised the One million dollar per constituency initiative as a vehicle to facilitate the development of the five regions, and warned contractors against shoddy works, saying the Authority would not hesitate to terminate the work of contractors who might frustrate the initiative.



He, however, commended some of the contractors for excellent work done on some of the projects inaugurated and handed over to the beneficiary communities and asked them to complete the remaining ones as scheduled.



Mr. Danquah inaugurated a six-unit classroom block with offices and stores for the Amponsakrom Methodist Basic School in the Wenchi Municipality constructed at the cost of GHC427,000.00



He also inaugurated a three-unit classroom block worth GHC237,000.00 for the Abotreye Municipal Assembly Junior High School as well as a 12-seater water closet toilet at Tromeso, also in the Municipality.



Mr. Danquah explained all these and several projects spread across the five regions showed the governments commitment to improving on the nations infrastructural development, especially in rural areas, and advised the beneficiary communities to adopt the culture of maintenance.



We have awarded contracts on many projects across the regions and it is imperative we go round to assess the progress of work and ensure contractors execute quality work that would benefit the people in the long term, he said.



Mr. Bernard Kwadwo Opoku, the Wenchi Municipal Works Engineer, commended the Authority for its intervention to improve on particularly education and health and assured the Assembly would support the communities to maintain the projects.



At Amponsakrom, Mr. Clement Bomasah, a teacher appealed for toilet and urinal facilities and implored the Authority to help fence the school as well to ward off animals.



Mr. Albert Baakebe, an opinion leader at Abotreye, also thanked the Authority for the classroom block and appealed for a toilet/urinal facility for the school.

Source: GNA









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Ghana remains a favourite destination for investment in Africa, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has assured Mr Irchad Razaaly, Ambassador-Designate of the European Union (EU) to Ghana.



In this regard, the Minister highlighted the political stability, open democratic values, free media and vibrant civil society which Ghana enjoys.



Madam Ayorkor Botchwey stated this when she received the Open Letters of the EU Ambassador-Designate in Accra.



She acknowledged the long-standing cooperation between Ghana and the EU which dated back to 1975 with the signing of the first financial protocol, the Lome 1 Convention, between the EU and the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) the Member States.



The Minister alluded to the fact that the EU was Ghanas largest multinational development trade partner.



She reiterated Ghanas ready business climate, indicating that Ghana remained an important Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) destination on the African continent as in 2017, it ranked 7 out of 54 countries



Madam Ayorkor Botchwey informed that the coming into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with its Secretariat in Accra, Ghana and Africa with its huge market potential, presents an opportunity for increased trade and Ghana was well-positioned to receive investors from the EU who wish to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the Free Trade Area.



Concerning anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism, Madam Ayorkor Botchwey noted that Ghana was delisted from the Financial Action Task Forces grey list, highlighting Ghanas commitment to combatting the financing of terrorism in line with international requirements.



She affirmed that the Ministrys doors were open for continuous cooperation with the Ambassador-Designate and further wished him a successful tour of duty.



On his part, Mr Razaaly called for the deepening of the already good relationship between the EU and Ghana.

Source: GNA









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Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has called on coup leaders in Guinea to "get out", saying that the takeover was a "step backward".



"They should be told to get out because they are not the solution for the country," Mr Museveni told France 24.



"We had them [coups] in the 1960s - they were part of Africa's problems so I condemn the coup [in Guinea]".



Guinea's three-term President Alpha Conde was removed from power on Sunday by soldiers from the army's special forces unit.



They accused him of mismanagement and corruption.



The coup has been widely condemned outside the West African nation, but many Guineans have expressed support for the ousting of Mr Conde, 83, while urging the army to facilitate a return to civilian rule.



Mr Museveni also told France24 that his decision to accept 2,000 Afghan refugees was based on "humanitarian" grounds.

Source: BBC









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The Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, is Ghana this week to hold bilateral discussions with President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



He met President Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House Wednesday (September 8, 2021) and the talks centered on strengthening the relations between Ghana and Ethiopia as well as exploring other areas of mutual interest to the two nations.



Graphic Online's presidential correspondent, Donald Ato Dapatem reports from the Jubilee House that President Akufo-Addo in an opening remark before the closed door discussions said the visit would also explore ways on issues of regional and continental interest.



Leading an entourage of ministers and diplomats, the team was received by the Director of State, Mr Samuel Kumah at the forecourt of the Jubilee House and were ushered into the Presidents Office for pleasantries and discussions.



The Prime Minister who is on a three-day working visit in Ghana was met on arrival by the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia at the Kotoka International Airport on Tuesday.



Abiy Ahmed Ali, is the first Ethiopian to be awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 2019 for his work in ending the 20-year post-war territorial stalemate between Ethiopia and Eritrea.



There has been a cordial relations between Ghana and Ethiopia since the time of Ghanas first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia.





Source: graphiconline.com









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The quality of air in Accra remains poor and high above the Ghana national standards and World Health Organisation (WHO) requirements, the Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Henry Kwabena Kokofu has said.



Contributors to the poor air quality include, mining, forestry, cement, manufacturing industries, vehicle emissions, and waste burning.



The EPA boss said though there had been some improvement, the current pollution level was more than the national standard of 35 microgrammes per cubic meter of air and WHOs yardstick of 10 microgrammes per cubic meter of air.



Speaking at a ceremony to mark this years International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, Dr Kokofu said air pollution affected quality of life and caused cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, upper and lower respiratory tract infections.



The United Nations event, which was on the theme, Healthy Air, Healthy Planet, sought to prioritise the need for healthy air for all, while keeping conversations broad enough to encompass other critical issues such as climate change, human and planetary health, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals.



Dr Kokofu said EPA in 2015 estimated that 2,800 lives were lost due to the effects of air pollution and that the number could increase to 4,600 by 2030 if urgent action was not taken.



In the Ghanaian context, the economic cost associated with air pollution is estimated at US$2.5bn or an equivalent of 4.2 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (World Bank Country Environmental Analysis, 2019), he said.



Dr Kokofu said as part of efforts to reduce air pollution, the Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI) through the EPA and other collaborating Ministries and Agencies had taken steps to develop a comprehensive Air Quality Management Plan, Fuel Quality Standards and Standards for Vehicle Emissions.



He said the Ministry and EPA with support from the World Bank was implementing the Pollution Management and Environmental Health programme to collect real time regulatory data for health impact assessment and decision making.



The Executive Director noted that MESTI in collaboration with EPA and other partners had completed the installation of a state-of-the-art air quality devices at the University of Ghana, Adabraka and Dansoman to further control Air Pollution in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA).



Mr Mohammed Adjei Sowah, the Metropolitan Chief Executive Officer of Accra, said poor air quality was one of the top public health challenges that the local Assembly was working to address.



He said available data indicated that 1,400 people died of poor air quality in Accra alone, explaining that the figure could increase if adequate measures were not taken to keep air pollution low.



The Accra Metropolitan Assembly, he said, as part of efforts to address the situation had collaborated with some academic institutions to install sensors to gather data on air quality, embarked on tree planting in the city, beautification public sensitisation, and safe waste disposal.



Mr. Ebenezer Appah-Sampong, Deputy Executive Director/Technical Services of EPA, said the implementation of interventions had resulted in the gradual reduction of ambient particulate matter levels in Accra.



However, he noted that much effort, commitment and resources were required by stakeholders to meet the goals of Agenda 2025.



Mr Appah-Sampong said the Agency in partnership with stakeholders was reviewing the current Air Quality Management Plan to include updated text and improved data from the Pollution Management and Environmental Health programme.



The EPA, he stated, had taken steps to set up air quality networks across major cities to monitor the air quality situation in the country and disclose the outcome to the public.



The growing rural-urban migration and increase in population being experienced in Ghana, is likely to outpace and challenge the already inadequate infrastructure that exists to manage pollution.



The cities of Accra and Tema host most of the countrys industries, some of which are aged and high emitting.



The vehicle fleet of Ghana is also increasing, with the current population of registered vehicles being more than 2.1 million, according to the Driver Vehicle licencing Authority.



The Greater Accra Metropolitan area has the highest number of registered vehicles of about 1.2 million.



These activities, including settlement issues, if not addressed holistically could pose serious risk to ambient air quality and public health in the Greater Accra Region.



In 2016, energy sector emissions accounted for 15.02 megaton of carbon dioxide (MtCO2e), representing 79 percent of total national emissions of 29.28 MtCO2e (excluding net emissions from Forestry and Land Use), a report on review of national emission contributions in Ghanas (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement indicated.



It revealed that the rising emission trend in the energy sector was driven by the increasing use of liquid fuels in transport and by thermal power generation.



Light crude oil was the dominant fuel for electricity generation until 2010 when natural gas joined the group of fossil fuels, due primarily to its cost effectiveness. The transport category accounted for 48 percent, followed by the energy industry, 35 percent and manufacturing and construction, 7.2 percent, the report said.

Source: graphiconline.com









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The Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, has sworn in a 12-member Ministerial Advisory Board of the Ministry of Education to advise the sector minister on policy formulations and direction of the ministry.



The board, made up of stakeholders in the sector and seasoned individuals, includes the two deputy ministers of Education, Rev. John Ntim Fodjour and Mrs Gifty Twum Ampofo; the Chief Director of the ministry, Mr Bejamin Kwasi Gyasi; the Chairman of the Ghana Education Service (GES) Council, Mr Michael Nsowah; the Chairman of the GETFund, Professor Dominic Fobih; and a retired Vice-Chancellor, Professor Jophus Anamuah-Mensah.



The rest are a representative of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI), Dr James Asare-Adjei; a representative of the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition (GNECC), Mr Joseph Atsu Homadzi; the Provost of the College of Engineering of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Professor Mark Adom Asamoah; a former Minister of Education, Dr Joyce Aryee; a representative of the Real Estate/Infrastructure, Mr Mark Kakraba Ampeh; and a representative of private schools, Dr Charles Yeboah.



The board also has an ex-officio member, the Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Professor Mohammed Salifu, and a secretary, who is a Director of the Human Resource Department of the ministry, Mr Abdul-Razak Umar.



Transformation



At the ceremony, Dr Adutwum charged the members to bring on board their experiences to achieve the necessary collaboration for the needed transformation of the sector.



"President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo believes that education is what will transform this country; not just any education, but quality education, he said.



Dr Adutwum explained that the countrys education system required re-engineering, saying the current state of education was far from perfect.



"In my opinion, we have a long way to go. We have done great things in the past four years, and various governments also did their bid, but we are nowhere close. We are nowhere close to where we want to be where education will be the most important socio-economic enabler in this country," he stated.



Legacy



Dr Adutwum charged the board to ensure that the legacy it would leave behind would be one the next generation should look "at us and say they gave in their best. They did their very best and transformed the educational system of Ghana.



"I want that to be your legacy and my legacy that we came and saw and conquered. That we came and saw challenges but we did not allow the challenges to overpower us," he said.



He said the first term of President Akufo-Addo saw some great innovation and approaches as foundation at the ministry, and that the foundation needed to be built upon so that we can truly say we have transformed the education system of this country".

Source: graphiconline.com









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The Vice-Chancellor of the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, Professor Gabriel Ayum Teye, has advised dealers in the local meat industry to follow best practices to enable the country to attain self-sufficiency in meat production.



According to him, the country had the capacity to produce its meat requirement and the potential to create a viable meat production industry independent of foreign imports.



Prof. Teye, who is also a renowned meat technology scientist, gave the advice at this years inaugural lecture of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences (GAAS) in Accra on the theme: The meat industry and national development.



Vibrancy



Prof. Teye said the vibrancy of the global meat industry which was worth $838 billion in 2020 should inspire stakeholders to establish appropriate structures to grow the local sector.



Ghana has the potential to produce all classes of animals for the meat industry to feed the increasing urbanised population, satisfy expatriates and reduce the current excessive importation to save our scarce foreign exchange, he said.



The Vice-Chancellor added that the development of the sector would also help create jobs and wealth, including the production of highly demanded grass-fed beef otherwise known as organic meat.



The industry, he said, was an essential component of the livestock and food value chain which must not only be developed and owned by the state, but also individuals, corporate organisations and farmers associations.



Touching on the health benefits of meat, Prof. Teye explained that meat was a source of high-quality protein for growth and development with high biological value of more than 75 per cent.



Amino acid profile of animal protein matches those of humans, making it a better source of human protein needs. It also contains top source of minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, iron and selenium, he added.



Measures



To ensure a thriving meat industry in the country, Prof. Teye further said rules governing its production and processing must consistently be enforced by appropriate agencies.



Aside from that, he said there was also the need to engage skilled, knowledgeable and conscientious labour, including wooing graduates from higher institutions to venture into the industry to improve standards.



Prof. Teye added that players in the industry must adopt and comply with standards and the code of practice guiding operations in the sector to gain global recognition.



Some consumers insist on certificated conditions before buying the products, which must be provided on labels. We must invest in and improve local animal production, the Vice-Chancellor stressed.









Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Member of Parliament (MP), for Bantama, Mr Francis Asenso-Boakye, has appealed to state institutions to order some of their vehicles from Neoplan (Ghana) Limited to turn round the fortunes of the company.



He said the financial challenges that threatened the very existence of the auto production company could ease and return on the path of progress if state institutions channelled some of their procurement from the company.



Mr Asenso-Boakye, who is also the Minister of Water Resources, Works and Housing made the appeal when he paid a familiarisation visit to the Kumasi factory located at Abrepo Junction, in the Bantama Constituency to acquaint himself with developments at the plant.



Emphasising the need for the channelling of resources into the once vibrant company to help create jobs for the teeming youth and boost the local economy, the MP said,For those of us who grew up around this area, we saw a robust establishment that provided direct and indirect jobs to many of our people.



I believe, therefore, that if we revamp this factory, it will help address issues of unemployment facing the youth in this area and Kumasi at large.



He added: As Member of Parliament, I humbly appeal to the authorities to give Neoplan Ghana Limited the needed attention and bring it back to life, because it has the potential to compete with other foreign vehicle manufacturing companies. I know President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is committed to job creation and would be happy to see this factory working again if he should see things for himself.



Revival key



Mr Asenso-Boakye said reviving the company, which operated bus production plants in Kumasi and Accra, would create jobs for the people.



He asserted that the visit to the factory had given him a first-hand understanding of what needed to be done to see to its revitalisation.



Neoplan Ghana Limited has over the years been known for producing buses in Ghana and has served various clients, including government institutions, transport companies and the private sector.



Regrettably, the factory has been out of operations in the past years for various reasons, he said.



Background



Neoplan (Ghana) Limited, which has been in existence since 1974, has produced over 4,000 buses for government institutions, universities, private transport unions and other organisations.



The government of Ghana has majority shares in the company, with 55 per cent shares, and the remaining 45 per cent is for a private investor.



A timely intervention by the government last year prevented the closure of the company by management who complained of lack of contracts and persistent losses.









Source: graphiconline.com









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Established insurance company GLICO Group has picked three awards in a recently held esteemed 2021 Ghana Insurance Awards in Accra.



The vibrant company stood out in three different categories of its subsidiaries-GLICO General, GLICO Life and GLICO Healthcare.



The companys outstanding performance in the year under review attracted the attention of the organizers of the Ghana Insurance Awards to decorate Mr. Andrew Achampong-Kyei (Esq), Managing Director, GLICO General as the CEO of the Year, General Insurance Category.



The legal practitioner assumed the Managing Director position of GLICO General in 2018, and prior to his appointment, he was the Companys Secretary and Head of Legal & Special Risk for GLICO Group.



Indeed, the company has risen to become one of the top four (4) private non-Life Insurance companies in Ghana, since he took over as Managing Director of GLICO General.



Due to his exceptional leadership qualities, GLICO General continued its growth trajectory by reporting a year-on-year growth in key financial metrics.



And for the first time ever, GLICO General crossed the GHC 1 million mark which moved it from 5th position to 4th position in 2020. Andrew is a bold and focused leader who is not afraid to take risks.



Today, GLICO General can boast of an elaborate portfolio of businesses as well as the effective management of high-risk non-life insurance policies such as bonds and engineering policies.



And having touched many lives through countless donations to health centres in the country, its health wing-GLICO Healthcare won the 'Product Innovation Award' (Private Health Category).



Its Life Insurance company, GLICO Life extended their dominance to the Personal Lines Insurer category and was adjudged the 'Personal Lines Insurer of the Year'.



The Mobile Pharmacy which is an example of GLICO's exceptional innovation in healthcare, is a medicine delivery solution in collaboration with key pharmacies nationwide.



It was themed Rewarding standards in the Insurance Industry and the award ceremony sought to reward companies doing exploits in the insurance industry.



GLICO Groups acting Head, Corporate Affairs and Marketing Ms Kukua Apprey in a post-event interview told peacefmonline that We are excited for these honours, it is a testament of what we have done in the year under review. Certainly, it will urge us on to go the extra mile to provide excellent services for our numerous clients.

















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The governing Council of Ghana Gold Expo, organizers of the Ghana Gold Mining Week 2021 have issued a press statement indicating the Ghana Gold Report 2021 will be released by 15th of September 2021 and distributed to all Ghana Missions Abroad.



The Governing Council led by the Executive Director Mr. Steven Blessing Ackah and Honorable Kwabena Okyere Darko-Mensa, MP for Takoradi have said that the report is on the state of the Mining Industry in Ghana and how Ghana can increase its Gold optimization by the Central Bank of Ghana, as presented during the forum, is set to be available to the general public on the Ghana Gold Expo Website and Forbes Monaco November issue.



The Ghana Mining Week 2021, is an initiative by Viewtag-Ghana as a policy advocacy body that focuses mainly on Promoting Zero Mercury (Responsible Gold Production) in local mining. It provides a platform to advance against the application of the deadly chemical in mining by the Minamata Convention on Mercury and Gold trade traceability.



Mr. Ackah stated that, The report would include insights and recommendations from diverse stakeholders, both local and international, all on National Inclusive Growth and Enabling Policies in the Mining Sector. The Bank of Ghana (BOG) as represented by Mr. Stephen Opata, the Director of Financial Markets presented on the central bank as a catalyst for the formalisation of Artisanal Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM).



The report also analysed strategic steps and measures to be put in place to eradicate the use of mercury among Artisanal Small Scale Gold Miners (ASGMs), due diligence procedures, monitoring and transparency in ASGM activities and water treatment strategies that Water Commission, Environmental Protection Agency and Minerals Commission can jointly adopt to clean our water bodies. The report will highlight presentations by the World Gold Council, The Ghana Chamber of Mines, Minerals Commission on Mining Exploration, LBMA and other speakers. It also covers a presentation of a Gold Gift to the Vice President, Dr. Mahamud Bawumia.





The event received the support of the Government of Ghana, through the Western Regional Coordinating Council and with the partnership and support of international agencies like Aurum Monaco, Forbes Monaco, Gold Fields Ghana, Bank of Ghana, Minerals Commission, Veola Ghana, Gold Coast Refinery, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources and other stakeholders in the mining industry.



The event which was hosted in Takoradi, in the Western Region of Ghana, July 1st to 3rd 2021, had in attendance more than 500 people, comprising of representatives from the Office of the President of the Republic of Ghana, Ministries, Government agencies, Mining companies, and Miner groups; 13 Embassies and Diplomatic Missions in Ghana; 10 global financial institutions; representatives from the LBMA, World Gold Council, Forbes, and other notable brands. The event received the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana as the Keynote Speaker, the Western Regional Minister as the host, the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources as Guest Speaker, and many other speakers and diplomatic envoys. Among the attendees were both small-scale and large-scale miners.



Finally, the report covers the Diplomatic Mining Field trip which had foreign envoys and participants visiting some mining sites in the Western region through the unflinching support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration,

Source: Peacefmonline.com/ghana









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Gunmen have kidnapped three people who worked on a farm owned by Nigeria's former President Olusegun Obasanjo in south-western Ogun state.



The gunmen opened fire on a vehicle transporting the three, before abducting them and running into a forest.



Ogun police spokesman Abimbola Oyeyemi confirmed the abductions.



Security forces have embarked on a manhunt for the kidnappers in a bid to rescue the victims, he added.



Mr Obasanjo owns a company which is heavily involved in farming, especially poultry.



The motive for the abductions is still unclear, but kidnappings for ransom have been on the rise across Nigeria despite increased security operations.

Source: BBC









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Mexico's Supreme Court has ruled that criminal penalties for abortion in the world's second largest Catholic nation are unconstitutional in a landmark ruling.



The unanimous vote by the 11 members of the high court on Tuesday comes as Texas took steps to restrict access to the procedure after enacting the strictest anti-abortion law in the country last week.



'This is a historic step for the rights of women,' Mexican Supreme Court Justice Luis Maria Aguilar said.



Abortion remains illegal in much of Latin America, with only four countries allowing it under all circumstances, and the move in Mexico makes it the most populous country in a region dominated by Catholicism to allow it.



The ruling follows moves in Mexico to decriminalize abortion at the state level, although most of the country still has tough laws in place against women terminating their pregnancy early.



Most recently on July 20, the Mexican state of Veracruz become the fourth in the country to clear away criminal penalties for elective abortion.



It followed votes in Mexico City, Oaxaca and Hidalgo to ease abortion restrictions in late June.



It comes as a women's movement has been growing in the country, where half of its congress is made up of female politicians, the Washington Post reported.



On Monday the National Action Party, one of the country's largest conservative opposition parties, voiced its opposition to the arguments being put forth by the court.



'We are in favor of the defense of life from conception to natural death, which is why we reject abortion, euthanasia, the death penalty and any scientific research that threatens human life, which must be protected by the State,' the group said in a statement.



Meanwhile in Texas last Wednesday, the state enacted the strictest anti-abortion law in the nation, which bans abortion after the sixth week of pregnancy.









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A carpenter, who allegedly inserted his finger into a seven-year-old girls genitals, has been arraigned at the Adentan Circuit Court in Accra.



State prosecutors told the court presided over by Mrs Sedinam Awo Balokah that the act caused the victim to bleed, and that a medical form has since been issued for the victim to seek medical care.



The accused person, Francis Avugla, has been charged with indecent assault.



He has, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.



The presiding judge admitted Avugla to bail in the sum of GH200,000 with four sureties, one to be justified.



Per the bail conditions, the sureties are to be known to the police.



The prosecution was represented by Inspector Gloria Ayim who held brief for Superintendent Patience Mario.



Prosecutions facts



The facts as presented by Insp. Ayim were that Avugla resided at Kwabenya in an uncompleted storey building.





The prosecutor said at about 4 p.m.of July 30 this year, the victim attended natures call in Avuglas house.



She said while the girl was leaving, Avugla lured her and put her on the floor of the uncompleted two storey.



She added that Avugla then removed the girls underpants and inserted his fore finger into her private part several times.



The prosecutor told the court that Avugla subsequently asked the girl to buy him a sachet of water.



Ordeal



However, on her way back the girl met the complainant and disclosed her ordeal to her.



Later that day, the prosecutor said, a neighbour saw the victim who was bleeding standing by a public washroom facility.



The complainant was informed, which led to the arrest of the accused person.



The case, according to the prosecutor, was then reported to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit of the Ghana Police Service.







Source: graphiconline.com









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Three persons in a COVID-19 isolation centre in Accra have been arrested for assaulting a medical doctor who was attending to them.



The patients who are all foreigners had been quarantined at the centre while awaiting the results of their COVID-19 status tests.



They are a 23-year-old photographer, a 25-year-old musician and a 24-year-old designer.



What happened



Giving details about the arrest, the Public Relations Officer of the Accra Regional Police Command, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Ms Juliana Obeng, said the three patients assaulted the medical doctor without provocation.



She said the medical doctor was attending to a number of patients in quarantine at the centre when he was attacked by the three patients on August 27, 2021.



She said investigations revealed that the medical doctor, while on his daily routine checks of patients at the COVID-19 isolation centre, disclosed to the three patients that they had tested positive.



Test status



The disclosure of the COVID-19 status of the three, she said, did not go down well with one of the suspects who burst out in anger and rained insults on the medical doctor.



The second suspect is also said to have pulled a metal fork from his pocket and started chasing the medical doctor in an attempt to stab him.



While the doctor was attempting to flee from the angry patients, the third suspect allegedly grabbed and slapped the doctor.



Ms Obeng said the doctor escaped from the attack and reported the incident to the police, leading to the arrest of the suspects.



After interrogating them, they were charged with the offence of offensive conduct conducive to the breach of peace, contrary to section 207 of the Criminal Offences Act 1960 (Act 29).







Source: graphiconline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of McDan Group, Daniel McKorley has become the first business mogul to purchase a new private jet for his personal use. In 2019, McDan obtained the license to operate and manage the executive lounge for private jets in Ghana.



This formed part of governments effort to change the face of aviation in the country. McDan and his company became the first in Ghana to have obtained such a licence to operate private jets in the country.



He now manages and operates an executive lounge for private jets at the terminal 1 (T1) of the Kotoka International Airport (KIA).



Henceforth, travelers are spoilt with the choice of a secure and private alternative to the airports main terminal kind courtesy McDan Group of Companies.

The company will further offer a range of services for private jet customers, aircraft and crew.



Videos of the first private jet was shared on social media and viewers took turns in commenting and admiring the effort of the businessman.



Daniel McKorley is a Ghanaian business magnate, founder and chief executive officer of McDan Group of Companies.



He started the McDan Shipping Company which was established in November 1999, with headquarters in Accra, Ghana.



He holds Executive Masters in Business Administration (EMBA) and a Certificate degree in Entrepreneurship both from the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).





Source: ghanacelebrities.com









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The United States (U.S) government has provided oxygen support system to the country to facilitate the provision of live-saving care for Covid-19 patients.



The system, including four oxygen plants, each with the capacity to produce 250 litters of oxygen per minute for approximately 25 severely ill patients per day, was presented to the Ministry of Health (MoH) at a ceremony at the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre (GIDC), in Accra.



The package also includes the supply of oxygen cylinders, pulse oximeters and the training of health staff and engineers on how to properly use and maintain the equipment.



U.S Ambassador to Ghana, Stephanie Sullivan, handing over the system to the government said the support addresses the immediate and medium-term effects of Covid-19 on the health, agriculture, education and hard-hit private sectors.



This oxygen support is critical in the short-term to address Ghanas Covid-19 critical care needs and in the long-term, strengthen Ghanas provision of oxygen, intensive care, maternal and new born care, she said.



Ambassador Sullivan said the U. S government will continue to support the countrys response to curb the spread of Covid-19, save lives and strengthen its health system.



Later this month we will commission three additional plants at Cape Coast Municipal Hospital, Kumasi South and Temale.



The U.S government is also providing 28 high-flow, high pressure oxygen concentrators to healthcare facilities across the country. Each specialized concentrator can provide oxygen for three severely ill patients at a time, she added.



She said the U.S government is taking the lead role in the global pandemic response indicating that no nation can act alone in the face of a pandemic.



The Minister of Health, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu in a speech read on his behalf said the oxygen system will help stabilize the health system to manage effectively Covid-19 patients.



In managing Covid-19, we will use oxygen as some point indicating that although health staff can easily deal with using portable oxygen concentrators, for Covid-19 they are found to be less effective.



Therefore, this is coming in at a time we really need it and we thank God and the U.S government, he said.



Acting Director of the GIDC Dr. Joseph Oliver-Commey, said the gesture will go a long way in helping the country achieve its goal of providing safe, quality, and affordable health care to its unfortunate loved ones during the pandemic.



We know the American government always delivers on its promises. as part of this donation, we have been promised other oxygen consumables, he sa

Source: Daily Guide









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The driver of the Member of Parliament for Suhum Constituency, Samuel Kofi Adjei has been rearrested after a Koforidua Magistrate Court discharged him of a charge of causing harm with an offensive weapon.



This was after the Attorney-General filed a motion of nolle prosequi to discontinue the case of violence involving the suspect.



The accused, Samuel Kofi Agyei, was last week charged with the offence of causing harm with an offensive weapon contrary to section 70 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 ( Act 29) at the Magistrate court on September 2.



The Regional State Attorney, Emily Addo-Kyereh told the court presided over by His Worship, Eric Danning that the nature of the offence comes with severe punishment and therefore the accused may not avail himself to stand trial if granted bail.



The Magistrate adjourned the case to Tuesday, 7th September, for the ruling on the bail application.



But the AG on Tuesday filed a motion to discontinue the case.



Jamalo as he is popularly known was discharged after the motion was successfully filed but was rearrested to face fresh charges at a circuit court.



The suspect who allegedly inflicted deep machete wounds on the Lower West Akyem communications officer of the NPP at a funeral in the constituency was arrested after he turned himself in to the police last Wednesday.



He was reportedly accompanied by the MP, Kwadwo Asante. He was made to write his caution statement.



A free-for-all fight among members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Suhum constituency left two persons injured.



The Partys Lower West Akyem Communications Officer, Bernard Kwesi Amoani, was allegedly slashed with a cutlass on his forehead by the driver of the Suhum MP.



Another victim, Alexander Odei, sustained injuries on his lips during the chaos which ensued on Saturday, August 28.



According to an eyewitness, the violent attacks happened at the funeral grounds of the late father of one of the partys communicators, known as Opare.



It was between supporters of the Member of Parliament, Kwadwo Asante, and a Presidential staffer, Frank Asiedu Bekoe, popularly known as Protozoa.



The followers of Mr Asante allegedly made slanderous statements against Protozoa, who is seeking to contest the MP in the partys next primaries.



One of the followers of the presidential staffer, popularly known as Big Deal, allegedly took a microphone at the funeral grounds to announce and place on record that they have been prevented from greeting the MP.



Infuriated by the turn of events, the supporters of the MP allegedly attacked him, leading to the fisticuffs.



The driver of the MP, whose name was given as Jamalo, then inflicted a deep machete wound on the head of the communications officer.



The victim was admitted to the Suhum Government Hospital, where he was treated and discharged.



The Suhum District Police command has since launched investigations into the case.





Source: myjoyonline.com









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Former Central Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has expressed disgust over former President John Mahama's "do or die" affair comments regarding the 2024 general elections.



The former President, who is currently on a "Thank You" tour, during an interview on Akina Radio in Techiman warned that nothing will jeopardize his ambition to be President of Ghana again.



Mr. Mahama said he and his party - the National Democratic Congress - have "learned our lessons from the 2020 election. The next elections will be won or lost at the polling station".



If otherwise, it will be a do or die affair at the polling station. The right thing must be done. We will win our election at the polling station, he exclaimed.



He further emphasized that his party won't wait to be rigged for them to go to the Supreme Court seeking redress.



We will do everything to make sure the election is transparent and fair. We dont want to cheat them, so they shouldnt. We wont wait for any Supreme Court, no!, he accentuated.



Kwamena Duncan, in reply during Peace FM's morning show 'Kokrokoo', indicated that Mr. Mahama's comments make him cringe.



Finding the comments to be distasteful, Kwamena Duncan noted former President Mahama's comments don't shock him because, to him, he (Mahama) has been rehearsing it since he lost the 2020 Presidential elections.



He recounted the resistance Mr. Mahama mounted against the Electoral Commission declaring President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo winner in the elections, hence inciting his supporters to hit the streets in protest.



To Kwamena Duncan, Mr. Mahama has been exposed by his comments.



''Former President Mahama now is a warmonger, he is a warlord, he is a rebel leader . . . we saw the rehearsal. We saw it after the elections when he unleashed his vulnerable gullible supporters onto the streets," he asserted.



"President Mahama, what is he looking for?'' he further questioned.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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"Ghanaians are not ready for war," former Central Regional Minister, Kwamena Duncan, has hit back at former President John Mahama following the latter's ''do or die" comment during an interview on a Techiman-based radio station.



The former President, speaking on Akina Radio while embarking on a "Thank You" tour, stated categorically that he and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) won't resort to the Supreme Court for election redress again.



He noted that they will meet the New Patriotic Party (NPP) boot for boot in the 2024 elections.



We learn from the past so we [NDC] have learned our lessons from the 2020 election. The next elections will be won or lost at the polling station.



If otherwise, it will be a do or die affair at the polling station. The right thing must be done. We will win our election at the polling station.



We will do everything to make sure the election is transparent and fair. We dont want to cheat them, so they shouldnt. We wont wait for any Supreme Court, no! Mr. Mahama told a shocked Presenter.



Kwamena Duncan wonders why the former President is so bent on becoming President again.



'" . . what is it that President Mahama continues to eye in the Jubilee House that he wants to go back and to collect with his hands?" he questioned.



Describing Mr. Mahama as a "rebel leader" for delivering what he termed as "war" comments, the former Minister stressed Ghanaians won't die for JohnMahama.



"This country has never either gotten to the brick of war or being in war; has never happened . . . the Ghanaian people, no matter the circumstances in which they find themselves, they will not get to that point where they will draw daggers. Ghanaians won't follow former President Mahama, who has been an Assemblyman, MP, Deputy Minister, Minister, Vice President and a former President before, and shed their blood for him to become President . . . this country, we're not ready. We're not prepared," he fumed.



Kwamena Duncan made these comments during Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' programme Wednesday morning.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former NDC Central Regional Chairman, Bernard Allotey Jacobs, has scolded the NDC 2020 Presidential candidate, Ex-President John Dramani Mahama for saying the 2024 elections will be ''a do or die affair at the polling station''.



Speaking about the next elections in an interview on Akina Radio at Techiman, Mr. Mahama stated; We learn from the past so we [NDC] have learned our lessons from the 2020 election. The next elections will be won or lost at the polling station.



If otherwise, it will be a do or die affair at the polling station. The right thing must be done. We will win our election at the polling station, he exclaimed, adding we will do everything to make sure the election is transparent and fair. We dont want to cheat them, so they shouldnt. We wont wait for any Supreme Court, no!



In response to Mr. Mahama's comments, Allotey Jacobs says ''there will never be war in Ghana . . . we're a peaceful people. We live in a peaceful country''.



"I sincerely believe that what happened in 2020 will happen in 2024 and this country will move forward, and there will be no war. There will be no upheaval. There will be no chaos!'', he stressed.



To Allotey, the former President's comments are "just to revive the spirit of supporters''.



He made these submissions on the Wednesday edition of ''Kokrokoo'' on Peace FM.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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A member of the Communication Team of the largest opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Maadi Jibril, has criticized President Akufo-Addo for being "insensitive" to the plights of Ghanaians.

According to him, it was wrong for the President to allegedly rent a second private jet after a public outcry over the first one.



Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, alleged that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo spent a whopping GH3.46 million on a private jet on his recent trips to England and Germany.



This was after public outrage over the government's decision to spend over GHC2.4 million in May on another private jet when the President was going to France, Belgium and South Africa.



Using the conservative rate of US$14,000 per hour, the two trips to the UK and Germany which require some 28 hours of travel distance in and out plus an additional 13 hours of pick up and drop off time, the taxpayer has been burdened again to the colossal tune of US$574,000.00. At the current exchange rate, that is a staggering 3.46million Ghana Cedis, Ablakwa said in a post on Facebook



Maadi Jibril contributing to a panel discussion on Neat FM's 'Me Man Nti' programme, queried: "You don't need anything at this age . . . renting a private jet even after Ghanaians spoke against it; you didn't give them any respect and rented a second one all because you're the President . . . and with this second one; not only does it have a bath but also a cinema. What do you need a cinema for? Is it to watch Esmeralda or Kumchacha; this is the leader who wants to protect the public purse?".



Listen to him in the video below





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has dismissed Sky News report on a supposed partnership between Ghana and UK on a third country asylum.



According to the Ministry, Ghana is not interested in any third country asylum partnership with the British government.



The ministry further stated that it has not held any discussion or received any proposal from the British government centered on third country asylum partnership.



Sky News UK reported that the recent meeting between Ghanas Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and the UK Minister for Africa, James Duddridge, had addressed a partnership for third country asylum.



However, a statement issued by the Foreign Affairs Ministry September 8,2021 stated that The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration wish to clarify that at no point in the discussion was a partnership on a third country asylum addressed.



As part of the discussion between the UK Minister and Ghanas Foreign Affairs Minister, the UK Minister informed Ghana Foreign Minister that the UK would be submitting a draft proposal for a partnership in areas of security and migration. So far, no such proposal has been shared with Ghana side.



The ministry categorically stated Ghana is not interested or has no intention to consider any proposal on third country asylum.

Source: classfmonline.com









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On September 3, 2021, Chinas embassy in Bangkok published a statement on Facebook attacking what it called groundless allegations in Thailand about Chinese-made vaccines.



The statement claimed: [S]ome Thai people and some organizations have underestimated and slandered Chinese vaccines for no reason.



As evidence, the embassy cited data released on August 3 from the Chilean Ministry of Health that found Sinovac is 86 percent effective in preventing serious symptoms and deaths, as well as preventing hospitalization.

The embassy also cited Indonesian government research released August 6 that said Sinovac was up to 95 percent effective in preventing death.



This information is proof that Sinovac is not an inferior vaccine, as has been alleged, the embassy said.



Although inferior is a loaded term, and though Sinovac has indeed faced a lot of public scrutiny in Thailand, multiple studies do suggest that other vaccines are better at fighting off COVID-19.

For example, the report released by Chiles Health Ministry on the effectiveness of the countrys vaccination program showed that Sinovac was less effective in preventing hospitalization, ICU admission and death than the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.



It found that Sinovac was 58.5 percent effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, 86 percent effective in preventing hospitalization, 89.7 percent effective in preventing ICU admission and 86.4 percent effective in preventing death.

By contrast, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was 87.7 percent effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, 97.2 percent effective in preventing hospitalization, 98.3 percent effective in preventing ICU admission and 100 percent effective in preventing death.

The AstraZeneca vaccine proved 68.7 percent effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, and 100% effective in preventing hospitalization, ICU admissions and preventing death. Dr. Rafael Araos, a lead researcher for that study, said the AstraZeneca vaccine had been monitored over a shorter period of time, and its results would have to be confirmed.



It should be noted that Chiles vaccine strategy was heavily reliant on Sinovac (also known as the CoronaVac). The Sinovac recipients for that study were approximately 8.6 million people (versus 4.5 million for Pfizer-BioNTech and 2.4 million for AstraZeneca).



Surprisingly, the Chinese embassy in Bangkok did not cite a newer, September 2, 2021, study published in The New England Journal of Medicine showing slightly higher efficacy rates for Sinovac.

That study, covering 102 million Sinovac recipients, found the vaccine was 65.9 percent effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, 87.5 percent effective in preventing hospitalization, 90.3 percent effective in preventing ICU admission and 86.3 percent effective in preventing death. (Adjusted figures for Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca were not provided.)



The Indonesian study found higher rates of Sinovacs efficacy than the Chilean study, at 85 percent effective in preventing symptomatic COVID-19, 92% effective in preventing hospitalization among older people, and 95 percent effective in preventing deaths. However, the study group was far smaller at 86,936, and the Indonesian study also did not offer comparative figures for other vaccines.

A preliminary version of a massive Brazilian study covering 60.6 million people found that those who had taken the AstraZeneca vaccine (also known as Vaxzevria) had a 70 percent lower risk of infection, 86.8 percent lower risk of hospitalization, an 88.1 percent lower risk of ICU admission, and a 90.2 percent lower risk of death.



By contrast, those vaccinated with Sinovac had a 54.2 percent lower risk of infection, 72.6 percent lower risk of hospitalization, a 74.2 percent lower risk of ICU admission, and a 74 percent lower risk of death.



That study has yet to be peer-reviewed.

A preliminary study by Thai researchers on medRxiv, which publishes non-peer-reviewed work, found that Sinovac produces far fewer neutralizing antibodies  which can counter and kill infected cells  than a natural infection produces.



The World Health Organization (WHO) has not weighed in on the issue of which vaccine is best, saying head-to-head comparisons cannot be made due to the different approaches taken in designing the respective studies."



However, the global health body added all of the vaccines that have achieved WHO Emergency Use Listing are highly effective in preventing severe disease and hospitalization due to COVID-19. The WHO validated Sinovac for emergency use on June 1.

Meantime, the Thai governments vaccine procurement strategy, and initial reliance on Sinovac, has been the subject of strong public criticism and suspicion.



In July, hundreds of Thai health care workers vaccinated with Sinovac became infected with COVID-19, prompting calls for a booster shoot.



A government memo leaked in July included comment from an unidentified official who recommended not giving frontline health workers a booster using the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, as that would be admitting that the Sinovac vaccine is not effective, Reuters reported.

After that leak, Thailand announced it would start mixing and matching Sinovac shots with AstraZeneca shots, as well as giving an imported vaccine booster to health care workers.

As previously noted by Polygraph.info, Thai health care experts, including those with the Infectious Disease Association of Thailand, had called on the government to stop purchasing Sinovac vaccine, arguing it provides insufficient protection against the delta variant of the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19.



Others, like Dr. Prakit Vathesatogkit, an expert on lung diseases at Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, have defended Sinovac. Vathesatogkit called the criticism biased.

Turkey, Brazil, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates, which used Chinese-manufactured vaccines, have likewise started offering booster shots and/or mix-and-match inoculations.



On September 7, the Thai government announced it had approved funding to buy 12 million more Sinovac doses. The decision to continue acquiring Sinovac prompted allegations of graft.

Prasert Chantararuangthong, a member of the opposition Pheu Thai Party, alleged a 2 billion baht ($213.8 million) discrepancy between approved budgets and what was actually spent on five batches of the Sinovac vaccine, the Bangkok Post reported.



Dr. Witoon Danwibul, director of the Government Pharmaceutical Organization, chalked that difference up to exchange rate fluctuations, however.



Critics have asked why Sinovac costs more than other more effective vaccines and questioned the alleged involvement of Thailands largest conglomeration, Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group, owned by the Chinese-Thai Chearavanont family, in the Sinovac procurement.

CP group has denied any role in the purchase of the Sinovac vaccine.


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After a one-year layoff due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Aiken's Makin' arts and crafts show is making its grand return to downtown Aiken on Friday.

The event, held by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce, will feature 168 artisans and 20 food vendors from across the Southeast. Aiken's Makin' will be contained within downtown Aiken today and tomorrow, opening at 9 a.m. each day and closing at 6 p.m. on Friday and 5 p.m. on Saturday.

There is no charge to attend.

Attendees should be able to find almost anything their heart desires, as a full spectrum of items can be found at the festival including folk art, pottery, personalized gifts, handmade clothing, basket weaving, iron work, candles, textile art, hair accessories, handbags and accessories, handmade cards, leather, mosaic, wood, canvas art and stained glass.

There will also be edible products like sweets, dips, jams and homemade pickles.

There is an ATM at TD Bank located at the corner of the show at 142 Chesterfield St. S.E.

The layout of the festival, which is typically well-attended, has been altered this year to better accommodate social distancing. Booths will be spaced out under the trees in the parkways along Park Avenue from Chesterfield to Union streets.

Dianne Phillips, the show's director and the chamber's vice president of administration, said some features have been eliminated "that would cause crowds to gather so that we can give everybody that social space that they each need."

Hand-sanitizing stations will also be spaced throughout the show's grounds.

"From the practical to the whimsical, there is something for everyone at Aikens Makin'," Phillips said.
The Savannah River National Laboratory is requiring all employees be vaccinated against COVID-19, a decision made as South Carolina and Georgia again strain under the weight of new coronavirus cases and deaths.

Lab workers will need to be fully vaccinated by Nov. 30, according to a memo reviewed this week by the Aiken Standard. A first dose will be required by mid-October.

More than 70% of Savannah River National Lab employees have already been immunized.

The Food and Drug Administration's full approval of the Pfizer vaccine motivated the move, the memo suggests, and provides a significant level of confidence and clarity to DOE leaders, national laboratory leaders and DOE contractors across the complex.

We have already seen this near and far, Dr. Vahid Majidi, the lab director and president of Battelle Savannah River Alliance, wrote to employees. Los Alamos National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory all require vaccination as a condition of employment and entry to their facilities.

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, the management-and-operations contractor at the Savannah River Site, unveiled a COVID-19 vaccine requirement Sept. 2. Unlike the national lab, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions did not offer a timeline  or deadline  in its announcement.

The latest tide of coronavirus has been particularly devastating to those unvaccinated; of the 44 people being treated for COVID-19 at Aiken Regional Medical Centers, at least 40 are not vaccinated. Twelve are in the ICU. An overwhelming number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in studied portions of June, July and August were among those not fully vaccinated, according to the state health department.

We are in the last stretch of fiscal year 2021, and COVID-19 continues to dominate the news. Regionally and nationally, infection rates continue to rise with significant consequences for those who are not vaccinated, Majidi wrote. Over the last two months, we lost four of our colleagues at Savannah River Site to this virus.

Exemptions to the vaccine mandate at the Savannah River National Lab will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

I understand that the requirement to be vaccinated may be difficult for some of you, Majidi told workers. We encourage you to discuss questions and concerns with your personal medical doctor or to consult with other trusted health providers.

More than 160 Savannah River Site employees were quarantined with COVID-19 as of Sept. 2  far more than earlier in the year, when the case count fell to single digits.
GOOSE CREEK  A major homebuilder that purchased 1,500 acres in the Carnes Crossroads development earlier this year has sold nearly two-thirds of the property to a Boston private equity and real estate company for $29 million.

In May, an affiliate of Lennar Corp. purchased 1,475 acres on the western undeveloped portion of the 2,300-acre site at U.S. Highways 17A and 176 in Goose Creek for $41 million.

Lennar, one of the nations largest homebuilders, held onto the parcel for three months before selling a large portion of the property to Rockpoint Group on Aug. 31, according to Berkeley County land records. The 913-acre parcel sits between U.S. Highways 17A and 176 and Nexton Parkway.

All of that property is under a development agreement with the city, said Goose Creek Mayor Greg Habib. The development agreement is based on some pretty high standards. We have the same expectations for the development of Carnes Crossroads, regardless of who the builder is. Weve had great meetings with Lennar and we believe that they will continue to develop a premier neighborhood. I dont expect anything different from any other developer or builder.

Lennar or Rockport Group could not be reached for comment.

The first residents began to move into Carnes Crossroads nine years ago and the community has slowly been building up since then. About 460 homes are currently on the ground, but the community is approved for about 4,500.

Carnes Crossroads is mostly southwest of the intersection of U.S. Highways 176 and 17A, but a portion of it sits across 17A, where apartments and retail tenants have sprung up.

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Most of the land set aside for housing in Carnes Crossroads has now been sold, but much of the commercial portion remains with the original developers.

The community already includes the 50-bed Roper St. Francis Berkeley Hospital, medical offices, apartments and restaurant and retail tenants.

Meanwhile, a 16-acre parcel on U.S. Highway 17A is set aside for a future grocery store. North Carolina-based Harris Teeter has been planning a supermarket on the site since 2009.

Harris-Teeter has not committed to a timetable to develop that property, Habib said. I know there have been some discussions about developing that property and maybe they are getting closer to developing the property, but that could be years down the road.

In 2020, Goose Creeks population was 45,351, making it the eighth-largest city in South Carolina. When Carnes Crossroad is finally completed and with other developments on the way, Habib is convinced that the city will grow to about 60,000 residents by 2030.

I havent seen anything that would lead me to believe that our growth isnt going to continue or increase at its current pace, Habib said.

Carnes Crossroads abuts the 5,000-acre Nexton tract between Interstate 26 and U.S. Highway 176, where about 7,000 homes could be built. It currently has about 1,300 single-family homes on the ground and roughly 900 completed apartment units.
Sept. 9 marks the 245th anniversary of Congress officially naming the United States. Though the line appears at the top of Thomas Jeffersons final draft of the Declaration of Independence, the idea had been put forth by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia a couple of days prior.

With that in mind, todays trivia looks at some other notable instances of U.S. citizens trying to make a new name for themselves, though their attempts didnt quite stick.
GEORGETOWN  A former Anderson County police chief is headed to prison after he pled guilty to robbing a Pawleys Island bank in 2019, his second similar heist over a two-year period.

Richard Inman, 52, of Fountain Inn pled guilty on Sept. 7 to entering a bank with the intent to steal and was sentenced by Circuit Court Judge Steven John to five years in prison followed by five years of probation, according to assistant solicitor Keith Powell, who prosecuted the case for the 15th Circuit Solicitors Office.

On March 22, 2019, Inman walked inside a Bank of America branch off U.S. 17 near Pawleys Island, and handed a note to a teller stating he was armed and demanded an undisclosed amount of cash.

He fled the bank with the stolen money and was caught by deputies from both the Georgetown County and Charleston County sheriff offices near McClellanville, 35 miles south of the bank.

Deputies shot and wounded Inman during the arrest.

Inman worked for the Greenville County Sheriffs Office, Greenville Police Department, Georgetown County Sheriffs Office and the Fountain Inn Police Department before his stint as chief in Williamston, a town of 4,000 just south of Greenville, records show.

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Inman was diagnosed in 2009 with a meningioma tumor, resulting in a surgery in which he struggled to carry out even some of the most basic responsibilities associated with his job, according to a former coworker.

He left the Williamston department in 2011 after he shared a photo of a portable toilet on his Facebook page with handwriting that read Mexican spaceship.

In 2017, he committed a similar bank robbery to the one in Pawleys Island.

He entered a Bank of America branch on Fairview Road in Simpsonville, handed a note to a teller stating he was armed and demanded money: This is a robbery. I have a gun. No dye-packs! $2,000 cash. No alarms. Dont cry out, stay calm.

He was later arrested in Franklin County, Ga., according to multiple news reports at the time.

In 2019, Inman was in the midst of serving four years of probation in connection with the Simpsonville robbery when he entered the Pawleys Island bank.
Simpsonville's planning commission has denied a petition for the annexation and zoning of 18 acres off Neely Ferry Road that would have made way for a 50-home subdivision.

The unanimous vote to deny the request came during a Sept. 7 meeting.

If it had been successful, the annexation would have split a 21-acre property directly south of Pain Elementary School, leaving roughly three acres in the county.

City Planner Jon Derby said commissioners voiced concern that the real estate agency and land owners asking for the property to be brought into the city had asked it be zoned for a medium density residential development. The commission did not oppose the construction of 50 homes on the property, but the medium density zoning would have allowed for the possibility of more homes in the future.

The development would likely have been tailored for older residents and retirees, particularly those downsizing to smaller homes. Derby said that kind of subdivision, which typically creates less new traffic, would be ideal for the area, where the demand on roads continues to grow. But the uncertainty the higher density zoning created tipped the scale for the commissioners.

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"They were all on board for 50 units, they agreed with it and we (staff) were fine with it as well," Derby said. "But there was no way to lock that in."

While the planning commission denied the request, it will still go before City Council at its next business meeting. Because the commission rejected it, the annexation would need a super majority vote from council to be approved.

If council rejects the annexation, the applicants would have to wait a full year before they could submit the same request again.

If the realtors made significant changes to their application, Derby said, such as requesting zoning for an innovative development rather than medium density residential, and submitted a detailed plan to the city, they could apply sooner. But that option could also present challenges.

"It would be looked at with a microscope," Derby said. "It's a lot more expensive. You've got to provide a lot more amenities, quality and thought behind how you want to lay it out."
GREENVILLE  Greenville County students can shorten their quarantines and return to in-person school after seven days instead of the original 10 with a new testing system.

Students who are symptom-free and receive a negative COVID-19 test no sooner than the fifth day of their quarantine can potentially return three days earlier than previously allowed, according to a Sept. 9 news release sent out by the Greenville County School District.

The test must be a PCR COVID test and not a rapid antigen or home test. Students who are positive and in isolation can't use the new testing system to return to school early.

Once the student receives a negative test, the results must be emailed to the district. A staff member will then respond with the revised return date, "as quickly as possible," the district spokesperson Tim Waller wrote in the release.

The district has partnered with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and MAKO Medical Laboratories to provide free COVID-19 drive-through testing at Northside Park at 101 West Darby Rd., MT Anderson Support Center at 100 Blassingame Rd., and Fountain Inn High School at 644 Quillen Ave.

The sites are only for GCS students and employees and will open on Sept. 13. Appointments are not necessary.

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Before now, only employees could shorten quarantines with negative tests. At the start of the school year, students were required to complete 10-day quarantines and return on day 11 at the earliest. Through this new testing system, student and employee must quarantine seven days with a negative test.

Students are required by the school district to quarantine if they were in close contact with someone who was COVID-19 positive. DHEC amended what close contact meant in late August and varies based on whether the COVID positive person is a student or adult, and if they are masked or unmasked.

The district's Board of Trustees approved using $600,000 of its Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds to hire temporary personnel or contract services to interpret and record COVID-19 test results for students and employees. Before approving this action, the district was using internal personnel to interpret teacher tests and they were "struggling to keep up," Superintendent Burke Royster said at the board's Aug. 24 meeting.

Since the start of the school year on Aug. 17 through Sept. 7  the last day the district's COVID Dashboard has been updated for students  almost 2,000 of the districts roughly 76,000 students have reported positive cases. Hillcrest High School has been the school with the highest number of cases since the start of school with 70.

More than 300 employees have reported positive tests this school year, with the highest number coming from the transportation department with 21 cases.
All five Charleston area hospital systems are teaming up to encourage residents to get vaccinated  and fast.

The public service campaign is a combined effort of East Cooper Medical Center, Roper St. Francis Healthcare, Medical University of South Carolina, Trident Health and the Ralph H. Johnson VA Health Care System. The same hospitals combined forces last year to spread the message that masks save lives.

"People are coming into our hospitals sicker than they were in the past and declining faster  overwhelmingly unvaccinated and many with no preexisting conditions, the hospital systems said in a joint statement Sept 9. Were doing all we can to save lives, but we need your help. Vaccination is our best hope.

South Carolina is in the throes of a deadly third surge of the coronavirus pandemic. The rate of new COVID-19 cases in the Palmetto State is one of the highest in the country, and the percentage of residents vaccinated is one of the lowest. Hospitalizations related to the coronavirus are soaring in this state, pushing the limits of hospital emergency departments and intensive care units.

On Sept. 8, Roper St. Francis reported a record high of 172 COVID-19 patients across its four hospitals. Its previous record of 157 COVID-19 inpatients had been set on Sept. 1.

As we face another wave of COVID-19 infections, its imperative we stand together on the facts that COVID-19 vaccines reduce our risk of contracting the virus and are highly effective at preventing hospitalizations and death, Dr. Jeffrey DiLisi, president and CEO of Roper St. Francis Healthcare, said in a statement.

All five hospital systems are asking those who havent gotten the vaccine to learn more about it and to trust the science that shows it will protect them and their loved ones.
South Carolina surpassed 750,000 COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic, the Department of Health and Environmental Control announced Sept. 8.

In terms of coronavirus-related deaths, Dr. Brannon Traxler, the agency's public health director, said this state is now only four fatalities short of 11,000.

Traxler said she couldn't predict what the pandemic holds this winter but that "science and recent history" clearly show that vaccinations and masking work to slow the spread of the disease.

"Its frustrating to know and have the answer and have the evidence that backs that answer and to see the same problems persist," Traxler said.

Even so, DHEC isn't interested in blaming or pointing fingers at any individual or group of individuals. This pandemic has proven to be too complex for that, she said.

Statewide numbers

New cases reported: 2,167 confirmed; 830 probable.

Total cases in S.C.: 627,981 confirmed, 148,361 probable.

Percent positive: 14.2 percent.

New deaths reported: 22 confirmed; 3 probable.

Total deaths in S.C.: 9,604 confirmed, 1,392 probable.

Percent of ICU beds filled (with COVID-19 and other patients): 82.58 percent.

S.C. residents vaccinated

In South Carolina, 57.8 percent of people who are eligible for the vaccine have received one shot, and 48.8 percent of eligible residents are considered fully vaccinated.

Hardest-hit areas

As of Sept. 8, Greenville (294), York (187) and Lexington (163) counties saw the highest totals of newly confirmed cases.

What about tri-county?

Charleston County had 103 new cases on Sept. 8, while Dorchester had 110 and Berkeley had 140.

Deaths

DHEC releases county-level data regarding COVID-19 deaths and the ages of those who have died from the virus on Tuesdays. According to the data published Sept. 7, at least 352 people in South Carolina died from the virus Aug. 29 to Sept. 4, and their ages ranged from pediatric (younger than 18) to elderly (65 and older). Greenville County recorded 39 COVID deaths that week  the highest number in the state. Health officials have reported that the vast majority of patients who are dying from the coronavirus at this stage of the pandemic are unvaccinated.

Hospitalizations

Of the 2,622 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of Sept. 8, 568 were in the ICU and 420 were using ventilators.

Student, teacher and faculty cases

DHEC's school dashboard shows, through Sept. 6, there have been 5,865 probable and confirmed cases among students and employees in the state's public and charter schools during the current school year.

Variants of concern

DHEC sequences a small, random sample of positive COVID-19 cases each week to determine which variants of concern (alpha, beta, gamma and delta) are circulating in the state. According to data published by the agency that is up to date through Sept 1, 2,313 samples have been identified as variants of concern over the course of the pandemic. More than 1,066 of those samples have been identified as the delta variant, which health officials say is now the dominant strain in South Carolina.

What do experts say?

Vaccination rates in South Carolina remain low, even though DHEC has observed a recent uptick in vaccines. Traxler said the agency is strongly encouraging everyone who is eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine.

For that matter, they should get a flu shot, too, she said.

"It is not too early. You can go now and get it."
MONCKS CORNER  Three schools in the Berkeley County School District will be under a two-week virtual model following ongoing concerns with COVID-19.

St. Stephen Middle, Berkeley Middle and Cross High schools will be in a distance-learning model through Sept. 21.

The transition comes as the district reports more than 700 student cases of COVID-19. At Berkeley Middle, eight staff cases and more than 40 student cases were recorded as of Sept. 8.

St. Stephen Middle reported five student cases and Cross High had three.

BCSD is still working on providing the exact number of quarantined students in its district to the public. But at a prior school board meeting, district officials warned that the number of quarantined students would get high enough that entire schools would have to go remote.

The decision to transition these three schools to a distance learning platform for the next two weeks was not made lightly," Superintendent Deon Jackson said in a news release.

Jackson also said district officials understand the burden the decision places on students, parents and staff. The impact of the pandemic made the decision necessary, he said.

Parents and community members are advised to continue following S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control guidelines, such as social distancing and mask wearing.

We need the support and cooperation of our families and communities to ensure that these students return to school healthy and that our remaining schools stay open," Jackson said.

A couple of weeks ago, a group of parents and grandparents organized a protest to push for a mask mandate in schools. Some joined the protest with the fear that students would have to go virtual if there wasn't a mandate.

"It's very upsetting," said Angeline Richardson, a protester and grandparent of a BCSD student. "It's about the children."

The district is also down 40 bus drivers.

BCSD officials informed the public at an Aug. 24 board meeting that they wouldn't issue a mask mandate. The reason was the state budget proviso that prevents school districts from using appropriated funds to enforce mask requirements in schools.

Its distance-learning decision for three of its schools also comes after Dorchester District 2 went under a similar program for seven days until Sept. 15. Dorchester District 4 is virtual until further notice.

In the Charleston County School District, eight schools are also in a two-week virtual program. Early College High School and Murray-LaSaine Montessori as well as Charles Pinckney, Sullivan's Island, Chicora, Julian Mitchell, Oakland and Ashley River Creative Arts elementary schools are all in temporary virtual learning.

Libby Stanford contributed to this report.
The Lowcountry was wringing itself dry after the remnants of Tropical Depression Mindy dumped over 2 inches of rain in just a few hours on Sept. 9.

After making landfall in Florida as a tropical storm Sept. 8, Mindy weakened as it washed over coastal Georgia and South Carolina with its flooding rains.

The depression unleashed heavy rainfall over the Charleston peninsula and inland areas, causing flooding by 11 a.m. The piling water shuttered some intersections that flood quickly when hard rains fall, including King Street and Huger streets, the area around Cannon Park and Washington Street between Laurens and Hassel.

A weather station near downtown Charleston's medical complex recorded nearly 2 inches of rain in three hours that morning.

Floodwaters cascaded through streets around the hospitals, forcing police to set up barricades. At a low spot on Calhoun Street, cars and trucks plowed through, creating wakes that rippled toward several businesses. Workers in a nail salon used towels to keep floodwaters from entering their store, but the waves created by passing cars won that battle.

Thursday's storm was another reminder of how vulnerable Charleston has become to flooding from passing storms, rain bombs and King tides amid the accelerating forces of climate change. As The Post and Courier has documented in its Rising Waters series, these drenchings can become downright dangerous: damaging property, stranding motorists and swallowing cars whole.

The National Weather Service's Charleston office had issued a flood warning for Charleston and Berkeley counties in the morning, and meteorologist Bob Bright said astronomical influences and swells generated by Hurricane Larry in the Atlantic created an unusually high tide in the area, bringing a risk for flash flooding amid the oncoming rains.

Tides peaking just as the rain fell would also contribute to the problem, making it harder for stormwaters to drain. Tides in Charleston Harbor were close to 6.8 feet around 11 a.m., just shy of the 7-foot level where minor tidal flooding begins.

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Forecasters from the hurricane center reported in their 5 p.m. public advisory that Mindy was traveling east-northeast at 23 mph with sustained winds at 35 mph.

Mindy was forecast to gradually weaken the night of Sept. 9 and dissipate the following day, the hurricane center said.

Meanwhile, large swells caused by Larry in the Atlantic were forecast to continue to impact East Coast shores through the end of the week, according to the hurricane center.

The center reported in its 5 p.m. advisory for Larry that the storm was 185 miles northeast of Bermuda and traveling north-northwest about 20 mph. Maximum sustained winds were near 90 mph, making Larry a Category 1 hurricane.

Larry is forecast to move away from Bermuda by Sept. 9 and move over southeastern Newfoundland the night of Sept. 10 or the following morning, the center said.

Forecasters expected Larry to begin weakening Sept. 10, but said it should remain a hurricane until it passes Newfoundland. The Canadian Hurricane Centre has issued a hurricane warning for parts of Newfoundland. A tropical storm warning remained in effect for Bermuda.

Tony Bartelme and Jocelyn Grzeszczak contributed to this report.
NORTH CHARLESTON  Lt. Col Alex Pelbath had been running evacuation missions in Afghanistan all week, but there was one specific moment he remembers from helping stuff more than 400 evacuees inside a single C-17 flight.

In the front row of the plane was a little boy, maybe 4 years old, who could barely keep his head up and was beginning to fall asleep while sitting up. After a long day of waiting at the Kabul Airport to flee the Taliban, the child began to lie down. His big sister was struggling to help him take his shoes off before he'd dozed off.

Pelbath got down on one knee and began to undo his laces.

"And as I looked up, his mom was looking at me," Pelbath said. "And she just smiled. And in her smile, I saw relief and I saw hope."

Pelbath was among five crew members from Joint Base Charleston's 437th Airlift Wing who spoke to the media Sept. 9 on what they saw in helping evacuate thousands of people from Afghanistan last month, bookending the U.S. military's nearly two decadeslong presence in the region.

Pelbath confirmed to The Post and Courier he was on the final flight aboard a Charleston C-17 out of Kabul  a departure that drew international attention after a green-tinted, night-vision image of Army Maj. Gen. Chris Donahue showed him preparing to leave the airport as the final soldier out of Afghanistan on Aug. 30.

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Pelbath said it wasn't until he saw all the planes on the runway getting ready to depart Afghanistan that he noticed how historic the moment was.

"He was on my aircraft," Pelbath recalled of Donahue. "There was a surreal moment where I recognized this was it," he said, adding "but leading up to that point, we were focusing on a job that was incredibly, incredibly difficult."

Charleston crews worked around the clock when news of the intensity of the Taliban takeover began to spread in August. Maj. Daniel Naske of the base's 15th Airlift Squadron said Joint Base Charleston was the military's hub for getting planes out and getting them back from overseas.

"Every single C-17 unit from across the country came through Charleston, was briefed by my team, and then went out and executed with Col. Pelbath," he said.

With the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks coming up, many of the pilots were reflecting on what the ensuing wars meant to them.

Capt. Amanda Edgren with the 14th Airlift Squadron, recalled flying out on the second to last C-17 from the Kabul airport. On her flight, some soldiers came up to the cockpit to spy out the window.

"They were looking out and I'm like 'What are you looking at?' " Edgren said. "And they said 'I just want to take one last glimpse of Afghanistan, because we might never come back here.'"
MYRTLE BEACH  A Myrtle Beach man is headed to prison after he illegally took nearly $150,000 in workers' compensation benefits while working as a lead officer with the Transportation Security Administration.

Emmanuel Papas, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sherri Lydon to one year and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release.

Papas also was ordered to pay $148,982.42 in restitution.

Papas was injured while working as a TSA officer at the Newark International Liberty airport in New Jersey in 2004 and began receiving federal workers' compensation benefits, according to evidence presented in court.

A TSA investigation revealed that he was actively working at granite shops in the Myrtle Beach area from March 2009 through February 2020. Surveillance and interviews with various granite business employees confirmed that he worked at three different retail granite shops.

Deposits into his bank account showed income coming from the stores and he disguised the income by being paid in cash or with checks made payable to family members, according to the investigation.

Papas filled out eight federal forms claiming that he had no outside income and was eligible to receive the benefits.
COLUMBIA  The S.C. Supreme Court suspended Alex Murdaugh's law license on Sept. 8, only days after he announced he was entering a rehab program amid allegations he misappropriated funds at his former law firm.

Alex Murdaugh's brother, Randy, said in a statement Sept. 8 he was "shocked" to learn of the allegations against his brother and he did not condone his behavior.

The high court placed the 53-year-old attorney, whose wife and son were shot to death in June, on an interim suspension subject to the Rules for Lawyer Disciplinary Enforcement.

An attorney may be placed under interim suspension if sufficient evidence demonstrates he or she "poses a substantial threat of serious harm to the public or to the administration of justice," according to the disciplinary rules.

Murdaugh's law license will remain suspended pending a final determination by the court, the disciplinary rules state. Murdaugh consented to the interim suspension, the order reads.

The order does not indicate what evidence prompted the suspension.

Ginny Jones, spokeswoman for the S.C. Judicial Branch, said she could not provide further information about the order, citing appellate court rules requiring confidentiality for attorney disciplinary records.

Murdaugh resigned from Peters, Murdaugh, Parker, Eltzroth, Detrick, a powerful law firm founded by his great-grandfather in rural Hampton, on Sept. 3 after the law office discovered that Murdaugh had "misappropriated funds in violation of PMPED standards and policies," the firm said in a written statement.

Randy Murdaugh said in a statement that he was "shocked" to learn of his brother's drug addiction and "stealing of money."

"I love my law firm family and also love Alex as my brother," Randy Murdaugh said. "While I will support him in his recovery, I do not support, condone, or excuse his conduct in stealing by manipulating his most trusted relationships. I will continue to pursue my clients interests with the highest degree of honesty and integrity, as I always have."

The day after he resigned, Murdaugh reported being shot while traveling through rural Hampton County, leaving him with what state investigators described as "a superficial gunshot wound to the head."

He then issued a surprise statement Sept. 6 indicating that he was leaving the family firm and entering rehab to deal with unspecified problems that had grown worse since the unsolved slayings of his son Paul, 22, and wife Maggie, 52.

The law firm countered with a statement of its own, first reported late Sept. 6 in The New York Times. PMPED indicated it had contacted a forensic accounting firm and notified law enforcement and the South Carolina Bar. The Times quoted an unidentified firm member as saying the amount of missing money totaled in the millions of dollars.

"This is disappointing news for all of us," the firm's statement read. "Rest assured that our firm will deal with this in a straightforward manner. Theres no place in our firm for such behavior."

Citing ongoing investigations and client confidentiality, PMPED officials declined to comment further. The firms website remained offline on Sept. 8, replaced by a white screen with the message: This website is temporarily unavailable.

Murdaugh's attorney, Jim Griffin of the Griffin Davis firm in Columbia, confirmed Sept. 7 his client resigned after being accused of diverting lawyer fees from the firm, but Murdaugh has admitted no guilt. The allegations caused him to confront substance abuse issues that have spanned "many years," said Griffin, who declined to identify the substance in question.

Amanda Loveday, a family spokeswoman, also confirmed Sept. 7 that Murdaugh had entered rehab for substance-abuse issues. Like Griffin, she declined to say where he is being treated.
A woman has been charged with three misdemeanors after she was accused of refusing to wear her mask and unlawfully carrying a gun at the South Carolina Aquarium.

Charleston police officers arrested Lisa Bostic, 56, of Lexington on Sept. 5 when aquarium staff members asked to have her removed for failing to comply with the buildings masking requirements. All aquarium guests over 2 years old have been required to wear masks since Aug. 25, regardless of vaccination status.

She was ultimately charged with simple assault, disorderly conduct and unlawful carrying of a weapon.

A Charleston detective was working an off-duty assignment at the aquarium Sept. 5 when staff members approached him, saying Bostic had told them to go "(expletive) themselves when asked to pull up her mask, according to an incident report.

The detective met Bostic and her son as they were exiting the gift shop, asking them to come outside.

At such time the offender became belligerent and also approaching (the detective) in an aggressive manner to include waving her hands violently in his face, the report alleges.

After trying to arrest Bostic for disorderly conduct, the woman is accused of striking the detective with her left hand around his neck and chest, police said.

A search of Bostics purse revealed a .38-caliber revolver, loaded with five live rounds, according to the report.

Police said the aquarium had clearly marked signs stating no concealed firearms, a decision businesses are allowed to make under the states new open-carry with training law. Bostic told police she is not a concealed weapons permit holder.

This is not the first time Bostic, the mother of a Lexington High School student, has expressed frustration with masking policies.

She railed against Lexington One trustees in May, when a mask mandate was still in place for the 27,000-student school district.

This has been the hardest year of my life, and its affected my family very much, she said at a May 4 meeting. What you're teaching the kids is they're being virtuous by putting on the mask while I'm telling my son, 'Don't be afraid, you're healthy, you don't need to wear a mask.

Wearing a windbreaker that said DO NOT BOW TO MEDICAL TYRANNY written across the back, Bostic said her son no longer lives with her and blamed the district for splitting up her family.

You have no idea how many families you have broken up, and the psychological damage you're doing to all these children, she shouted before asking the district to allow masks on an optional basis.

Bostic was booked on Sept. 5 in the Charleston County Jail. She was released the following day and will appear in court at the end of the month.

Adam Benson contributed to this report from Columbia.
FLORENCE  A new scholarship program funded by the Darla Moore Foundation will benefit students at Francis Marion University experiencing financial hardship.

The foundation donated $5 million to support the scholarship which covers tuition, fees and housing.

Moore decided to start the fellowship because she grew up in the Pee Dee and wanted to give back by helping students who are most at risk in the rural, economically challenged region.

"Were it not for the public school system, I would not have been able to achieve what I've achieved," Moore told The Post and Courier.

To qualify for the scholarship, students must be South Carolina residents whose family income does not exceed $75,000. They also need to maintain a grade-point average above 2.7.

The first group of Darla Moore Scholars will enroll at the university in the fall of 2022. The school is accepting nominations from high school counselors starting in January. Only school counselors are able to nominate students for the scholarship.

Although anyone who qualifies can apply, the scholarship is geared toward students who are the first generation of their family to go to college. Francis Marion is a university that focuses its efforts on serving first-generation college students, most of whom struggle to afford a higher education.

"The cost of higher ed has escalated so high that it's now out of reach for most ordinary people," Moore said. "That, over time, will be very damaging to the workforce and to the culture," Moore said.

The scholarship is not the first time that Moore's foundation has invested in Francis Marion. The philanthropist donated $25 million to open the Continuum in Lake City in 2019. The Continuum is an education center offering college courses taught by Francis Marion professors to high school students with the goal of advancing educational opportunities in the Pee Dee.

Moore is also a major donor to the University of South Carolina. The university named its business school after the philanthropist, who has donated over $75 million to the school. She has also donated to Clemson University, Claflin University in Orangeburg, and Furman University in Greenville.

The Francis Marion scholarship is the first time the foundation's donations are benefiting students directly.

"College has become nearly unaffordable without significant student debt or families relying on some other source of income," said Harry Lesesne, executive director of the Darla Moore Foundation.

Going forward, Moore's foundation hopes to do more scholarship work and expand access to education across the Pee Dee and the rest of the state.
SUMMERVILLE  A Dorchester District 2 board member is currently being investigated for alleged child endangerment after she left her grandchildren in a running vehicle for about 20 minutes.

According to a Dorchester County Sheriff's Office incident report released to media on the evening of Sept. 8, Barbara Crosby is being investigated for leaving her 4-year-old and 9-year-old grandchildren in her SUV while she attended a board meeting.

On Sept. 1, Crosby had arrived at the DD2 Adult Learning Center for a board workshop discussing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Later during that meeting, the board would vote and approve all schools going virtual for seven days.

According to the report, Crosby asked a DD2 security officer to watch her grandchildren while she attended the meeting. After they informed her she couldn't do that, the report said Crosby continued on to the meeting anyway.

The two children were soon after found in the SUV with the vehicle still running, the incident report says. Officers present convinced the 9-year-old to open the door after Crosby informed them that her keys were still in the car. The 9-year-old then proceeded to tell officers that they couldn't enter the building because they were a COVID close contact.

He also informed officers that their mother was on the way. According to the report, with the mother traveling from West Ashley to get them and one of the security officers watching the children, it was determined that the children were not in any immediate danger and they were not taken into protective custody. They were in the vehicle about 20 minutes, the report states.

A further investigation is taking place to determine whether or not Crosby broke state law.

CJ Westfall, a spokesman for Crosby, said she would be putting out a statement on the investigation later. That statement was not immediately made available to the media.

Another DD2 workshop is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sept. 9.
SUMMERVILLE  A Dorchester School District 2 board member currently being investigated for alleged child endangerment said she learned of the investigation by the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office through the media.

According to an incident report released the evening of Sept. 8, Barbara Crosby is being investigated for leaving her 4-year-old and 9-year-old grandchildren in a running vehicle while she attended a DD2 board workshop meeting Sept. 1. The report noted further investigation would determine whether Crosby broke any state laws.

In a statement posted to her campaign Facebook page, Crosby said as of the morning of Sept. 9, no one with the Sheriff's Office had reached out to her to inform her about the investigation.

Representatives from the Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to requests for comments.

"I am more than happy to comply with the investigation, because I am confident once all of the facts come to light it will only prove my innocence," Crosby said in a statement posted to the "Barbara Crosby for DD2 School Board" Facebook page.

On Sept. 1, Crosby had asked a DD2 security officer to watch her grandchildren while they were in her car parked outside district offices. According to the report, when Crosby was informed officers couldn't watch them, she continued on to the meeting.

After officers found the two children in the parking lot, the 9-year-old informed them that their mother was on the way to get them, according to the incident report. They also said they couldn't enter the building because they had been exposed to COVID.

After a 20-minute wait for the mother and with one of the officers able to watch the children, the Sheriff's Office determined the children were in no immediate danger and did not take them into protective custody, the incident report says.

In her Facebook post, Crosby said the timing of the investigation was questionable. During the Sept. 1 meeting, the board voted to approve seven days of virtual learning. Crosby voted against the decision.

Crosby did not respond to requests for additional comment. DD2 Board Chair Gail Hughes also declined to comment.

Another board workshop is scheduled at 4 p.m. on Sept. 13, prior to the district's regular meeting, to discuss COVID protocols and concerns. This story will be updated following that meeting.
GEORGETOWN  Five months after conservationists announced the creation of a new state park along the Black River, the Lowcountry Land Trust has secured 444 acres of the Millgrove Plantation property in Georgetown County, which fronts the river.

The new conservation easement adds to a growing amount of land that authorities hope will protect the Black River basin, which is part of the sprawling Winyah Bay watershed.

The Black River's headwaters are in Lee County, but the portion of the waterway designated a State Scenic River is located in Williamsburg and Georgetown counties. That designation enables the Department of Natural Resources to help landowners, conservation groups, state agencies and adventurers manage the resource responsibly, promote good stewardship and provide public access.

Millgrove Plantation is situated about 15 miles north of Georgetown, just west of the Rocky Point Community Forest, one of five tracts of land that comprise the new state park. It remains in private hands but now is ineligible for real estate development.

The public, while unable to access the property freely, benefits from improved water quality, preservation of the ecosystem and an undisturbed riverfront, said David Ray, conservation manager for the Lowcountry Land Trust.

Easements are great synergy, allowing people to maintain private ownership yet protect the land and surroundings, Ray said.

The project was funded by the South Carolina Conservation Bank, with support from Ducks Unlimited, which helped secure a North American Wetlands Conservation Act grant.

The momentum of land protection along the Black River continues with the addition of Millgrove to the seven other properties that the Conservation Bank has helped to protect, Conservation Bank Executive Director Raleigh West said in a statement. I commend the collaboration between local, state, and federal entities as well as the willingness of a conservation-minded landowner to bring this project to fruition.

To date, the Conservation Bank has provided nearly $3 million in funding to Black River projects, helping to protect 3,100 acres and 4.5 miles of river frontage.

The ecology of Millgrove Plantation includes pine-filled uplands, a variety of hardwood trees, native grasses, wetlands and forested streams. The property also features remnants of old rice fields.

This and other easements along the Black River will help protect the floodplain and wetland tributaries.

The conservation efforts on the Black River are essential to the ecological health of the Lowcountry, Lowcountry Land Trust President and CEO Ashley Demosthenes said.
Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
Editorials represent the institutional view of the newspaper. They are written and edited by the editorial staff, which operates separately from the news department. Editorial writers are not involved in newsroom operations.
Recent COVID-19 stories in the Lowcountry report that MUSCs ICU beds are full, multiple schools are going virtual and 5,000 people have been infected with COVID-19 with 60 dead statewide on a single day. I wonder how many were children.

Fridays front page of The Post and Courier had a photo of Gov. Henry McMaster standing shoulder to shoulder with other unmasked officials as he announced the widening of Interstate 26.

When asked, the governors ombudsman stated that everyone in the picture was vaccinated.

Perhaps someone should tell the governor more variants are coming and we dont know how effective the vaccines will be against them.

The governor should be the cheerleader in chief on combating COVID-19 with every word he speaks, in every image in which he appears and in taking advantage of every opportunity to make his point.

He talks a good game, but his actions and images say something completely different.

Maybe its time for a change.

TIMOTHY C. KIEL

Pelzer Drive

Mount Pleasant

Redistricting abuses

A recent Wall Street Journal editorial took New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to task for promising to help gerrymander the state to the benefit of Democrats in Washington, D.C.

This relates to the op-ed by state Rep. Gilda-Cobb Hunter and state Sen. Mike Fanning in the Sept. 3 Post and Courier.

I think those two lawmakers should be mindful that the same gerrymandering is occurring in states run by Democrats before trying to school South Carolinians.

New York has a state law about redistricting and the Democrats there are still trying to abuse the process for their own benefit.

Rep. Cobb-Hunter and Sen. Fanning should do their homework before preaching to the electorate.

The people of South Carolina should know what the Democrats are doing elsewhere and recognize their hypocrisy.

RICK GAYLARD

Grovehurst Drive

Charleston

Churchs bold mission

I enjoyed the recent article about First Baptist Church of James Islands wonderful initiative, a $3 million life center to be completed in a few months.

The church has boldly put Gods words into action: I am the way, the truth and the life. (John 14:6).

Some houses of worship and Christians have forgotten that we are called to serve others. The core message of the New Testament is to Love God and love your neighbor.

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The life center can serve as a great model with outreach planning and capabilities for other parishes to incorporate and adopt. Our churches no longer have the outdated and misguided luxury to be the spiritual home of only their parishioners. They are meant to be the home for all of Gods children, especially those in need.

So much good will rise from the life center because the seed was planted with good intention.

Everyone will be blessed by the churchs presence, and the greater community will be enriched.

JACKIE MORFESIS

Gilmore Road

Charleston

Level playing field

An Aug. 27 editorial denounced the Protecting the Right to Organize Act.

The argument against unions and for the right-to-work law shows why the PRO Act should be passed: to level the playing field that is heavily stacked against workers and unions.

The editorials pro-business bias, backed by a state government hostile to unions, are key reasons that South Carolina workers earn lower wages, have fewer benefits and are unprotected against the hire at will, fire at will whims of employers.

Unions negotiate the wage scale, benefits, pension plan and grievance procedures, as well as health and safety standards for workers.

Unions administer the contract, making sure that employers live up to the terms. A contract also gives workers more freedoms. Being able to plan your schedule, take time off to go to the doctor or go to a parent/teacher conference gives workers freedom.

A contract also gives workers due process. By law, unions must represent all workers in their bargaining unit.

The editorials defense of laws that permit workers to not pay union dues is absurd. Name one organization that voluntarily allows people to enjoy all the benefits of membership without paying membership dues.

These right-to-work laws are not intended to protect individual workers liberties. Instead, they are intended to weaken unions financially, create internal conflict within unions and inhibit workers right to organize.

Another concern listed is that the PRO Act would abolish so-called right-to-work laws, making those states lose an advantage in recruiting business.

Instead, it would level the playing field.

GEORGE W. HOPKINS

Past Board Chairman, Carolina Alliance for Fair Employment

Gilmore Road

Charleston

ERIN MCKEE

Past President, SC AFL-CIO

Short River Court

Mount Pleasant
Political Editor

Schuyler Kropf is The Post and Courier political editor. He has covered every major political race in South Carolina dating to 1988, including for U.S. Senate, governorship, the Statehouse and Republican and Democratic presidential primaries.
A POST-NATIVE PERSPECTIVE

It is hard to believe these days that the nation has other issues as pressing, if not more so, as the economy, the right of agency over your b Read more
Authorities have been saying this for years: If a multimillion-dollar inheritance sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

But in a federal indictment that was made public in federal court Thursday, Guam victims of what's called an advance-fee scam fell prey to a similar trick.

The total amount that flowed out of Guam to alleged scammers' bank accounts: $885,200, according to the indictment.

The alleged scam: Two men with ties to Nigeria convinced two women who live on Guam to participate in their alleged fraud. Guam victims were convinced to fork out advance payments for processing and other fees before they would receive millions of dollars in supposed inheritance money.

The Guam women have been identified in the indictment against two Nigerian citizens with Florida addresses.

Teresa Adamos Pereda and Sally Cruz Roberto, according to the indictment in the U.S. District Court on Guam, "participated in an advance-fee inheritance scam and obtained money from Guam-based victims."

The details of Robertos case had been kept confidential until the indictment against the two Nigerian citizens who allegedly ran the scam became public. Roberto has pleaded not guilty.

Pereda has not been charged in the alleged advance-fee scam.

The Nigerian citizens who were indicted in the federal court on Guam are Okechukwu F. Iwuji, 37, and Jide Abimbola, 37, who also goes by the names Mark Long, Grang Long, Greg Long, and Luke Joshua.

Each was indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

The indictment against Iwuji and Abimbola alleges:

 From November 2018 to February 2019, Pereda and Roberto sent via multiple wire transfers $475,710 from Guam to bank accounts under Iwuji's control; and

 From December 2018 to September 2019, Abimbola received $409,490 that Pereda and Roberto wired from the Guam victims of the alleged scam.

The women sent the money in 35 wire transfers to multiple bank accounts that Iwuji and Abimbola controlled using Florida mailing addresses, documents state.

Each wire transfer was for a different amount, from as low as $1,500 to as much as $58,650.

Iwuji and Abimbola have since pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The trial for the two men is set for Nov. 5.
A federal case filed against two citizens from Nigeria has been unsealed in the District Court of Guam.

Okechukwu F. Iwuji, 37, and Jide Abimbola, 37, who also goes by the names Mark Long, Grang Long, Greg Long, and Luke Joshua, were each indicted on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

The indictment was handed down on Aug. 11. and unsealed on Thursday.

According to the court documents, the defendants were involved in an advance-fee scheme where they offered victims a large amount of money and fraudulently convinced them to pay various fees before they could receive the promised funds.

Teresa Pereda and Sally Cruz Roberto participated in the scam and obtained money from victims in Guam, court documents state.

The money was transferred to multiple bank accounts that Iwuji and Abimbola controlled using Florida mailing addresses, documents state.

Its alleged that between 2018 and Nov. 2019, the defendants and co-conspirators would unjustly enrich themselves and each other from an advance-fee inheritance scam conducted via the internet. The proceeds of the scam were transmitted within the United States and to Africa through a network of recruited individuals.

Wire transfers from Guam: (source: indictment)

 Nov. 2018  Feb. 2019: Iwuji and Fidelity Global Ventures received $475,710 that Pereda and Roberto wire transferred from Guam

 Dec. 2018  Sept. 2019: Abimbola received $409,490 that Pereda and Roberto wire transferred from Guam

The funds were sent to domestic and overseas bank accounts, withdrawn in cash or via ATM, and through debit transactions, documents state.

The indictment lists a total of 35 wire transfers made to the defendants.

Iwuji and Abimbola have since pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Trial has been scheduled for Nov. 5.

(Daily Post Staff)
Montco Courts

Man waives hearing on charges he sexually assaulted underage girl in New Hanover
Scott wrote this morning about documents that the Intercept has obtained under the Freedom of Information Act relating to NIH funding of coronavirus research in Wuhan, China. These documents relate to two grants that the NIH gave to Ecohealth Alliance, which in turn collaborated on the Chinese research. They have been hailed by many as conclusive proof that Dr. Fauci has lied about NIH supporting gain of function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

These materials relate to two grants to Ecohealth Alliance, but the second wasnt approved until August 2020 and cant be very relevant. It is the first grant, approved in 2014, that deserves attention. It is titled Understanding the Risk of Bat Coronavirus Emergence, and obviously has potential relevance to the COVID-19 epidemic.

But does it prove that NIH funded gain of function research in coronaviruses? The Notice of Award itself specifically says that gain of function research is prohibited:

The Notice also implies that enhanced virus growth was possible, in which case experiments were to cease and NIH was to be put on notice. But all of this reads like boilerplate.

The original Notice of Grant is dated May 2014, and the second or renewal grant, which includes the ban on gain of function research, is dated May 2017. It was in December 2017 that NIH, at the instance of Dr. Fauci, changed its policy and resumed funding gain of function research. Work under this grant apparently continued into 2019, so one might speculate that the ban on gain of function research could have been relaxed at some point. But, based on my admittedly incomplete review, I have not seen any indication of this.

Does the research covered by this grant involve activities that would change the DNA of a coronavirus? This is the summary of the project:

The main expert who has proclaimed these documents a smoking gun is Dr. Richard Ebright. He laid out his views in a Twitter thread. Some relevant language:

The materials confirm the grants supported the constructionin Wuhanof novel chimeric SARS-related coronaviruses that combined a spike gene from one coronavirus with genetic information from another coronavirus, and confirmed the resulting viruses could infect human cells. The materials reveal that the resulting novel, laboratory-generated SARS-related coronaviruses also could infect mice engineered to display human receptors on cells (humanized mice). The materials further reveal for the first time that one of the resulting novel, laboratory-generated SARS-related coronavirusesone not been previously disclosed publiclywas more pathogenic to humanized mice than the starting virus from which it was constructed

and thus not only was reasonably anticipated to exhibit enhanced pathogenicity, but, indeed, was *demonstrated* to exhibit enhanced pathogenicity. The materials further reveal that the the grants also supported the constructionin Wuhanof novel chimeric MERS-related coronaviruses that combined spike genes from one MERS-related coronavirus with genetic information from another MERS-related coronavirus. The documents make it clear that assertions by the NIH Director, Francis Collins, and the NIAID Director, Anthony Fauci, that the NIH did not support gain-of-function research or potential pandemic pathogen enhancement at WIV are untruthful.

Ebright refers particularly to the progress report on the 2014 grant. This may be some of what he has in mind:







Whether this, or other language in the grant documents, shows gain of function research is far beyond my technical knowledge. Here, though, is the main point I want to make, after a rather long windup: we already have clear evidence that the NIH funded gain of function research in Wuhan, contrary to assurances from Dr. Fauci and others. That was made clear by the report from which Senator Rand Paul read in this exchange with Fauci. Fauci did not deny that the NIH, under his direction, funded research that took viruses that were only transmissible between animals and made them transmissible to humans. Fauci only alleged that, according to some tortured definition of the term, such research was not gain of function. But that linguistic point is moot: taking a bat virus and modifying it so that humans can catch it is precisely the sort of dangerous research against which experts (other than Fauci) have warned for many years. And Fauci does not deny that this was done under his auspices at NIH.

In short, whatever experts ultimately derive from the documents most recently made public will only be icing on the cake.

Of course, none of this proves, one way or the other, whether the COVID-19 virus mutated naturally or was modified in a laboratory.
A Rochester woman, as they say, pleaded guilty last week to being an accessory after the fact to arson of multiple St. Paul businesses during the George Floyd riots. According to court documents summarized in a local United States Attorney press release, on May 28 last year Mena Dhaya Yousif and husband Jose Angel Felan Jr. went to several businesses located on University Avenue in St. Paul:

Felan allegedly set fire to the Goodwill retail store, the Gordon Parks High School, and the 7 Mile Sportswear store. Over the course of the following week, Yousif aided and abetted Felan as he fled from Minnesota to Texas, before crossing the border into Mexico. Yousif traveled with Felan and assisted his escape by destroying evidence and providing false information to law enforcement. In February 2021, Felan and Yousif were arrested by Mexican law enforcement authorities and returned to the United States to face prosecution.

Arson charges remain pending against Felan. Checking with ICE, I understand that Yousif and Felan were apprehended as fugitives in Mexico and that both are citizens of the United States.

The damage done in the aftermath of Floyds death on Memorial Day 2030 extended to 1,500 businesses and buildings in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Estimates place the damage at $500 million. This crime wave was largely inspired by the abandonment of the Minneapolis Police Departments Third Precinct headquarters and its subsequent burning on the evening of May 28. It is absolutely astounding how quickly thugs from all over the state descended on the Twin Cities and devastated civic order.
Today Joe Biden is rolling out a series of measures designed to force covid vaccinations on those Americans who remain reluctant to get them. Federal employees, government contractors and health care workers will have to be vaccinated:

The president is expected to roll out a new requirement for federal employees to get a Covid vaccine, with no option for regular testing, according to senior administration officials. The executive order will extend to contractors that work with the U.S. government, impacting a total of 2.1 million employees, according to NBC News.

But thats not all! Biden wants to force employers to require their employees to be vaccinated:

Biden is also expected to ask the U.S. Department of Labor to issue a rule that employers with more than 100 employees must require vaccines or testing, according to officials.

I cannot imagine what the constitutional basis for such an order would be. But then, I am old-fashioned. I assume that we still have a Constitution.

In part, Biden likely is trying to distract attention from Afghanistan and the border. (Notably absent from the list of those who will be forced to be vaccinated are the hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens streaming across the southern border. And how about those tens of thousands of Afghan refugees? Are they getting a double shot of the vaccine before being settled in various places around the U.S.?) Will that work as a political strategy? To some degree, it may. Americans seem appallingly willing to sign away their rightsand worse, other peoples rightsfor the sake of public health. Anti-covid measures that I think are ridiculous, and in many cases more damaging than the disease, have often proved popular.

What is still not clear to me is why I, having been vaccinated long ago, should care whether others choose to do the same. If the vaccine works, I have nothing to fear from them. If it doesnt work, they shouldnt be forced to submit to it.

Increasingly, it appears that the rationale for vaccination is that you still may catch covid, but your infection wont be as severe as it might otherwise be. Fine: but for people under 60, covid infections are rarely severe in the first place. Young people who think they have little to fear from covid whether they are vaccinated or not are, in general, right. So the government should not try to dictate their health care decisions. Their bodies, their choice.

UPDATE: The lawsuits will begin to fly as soon as the starting gun goes off. Not surprisingly, South Dakota enlists in the cause of freedom:

South Dakota will stand up to defend freedom. @JoeBiden see you in court.  Governor Kristi Noem (@govkristinoem) September 9, 2021



On our family chat line, some of my daughters discussed the employer vaccine mandate. Daughter 1:

Does it apply if you only have remote workers??? So many questions. Does it apply to religious organizations like the Christian scientists who dont believe in medicine?

Daughter 2:
We have commemorated 9/11 annually over the years. This year raises a special challenge. It is complicated by the epic and ongoing humiliation of the United States engineered by President Biden in contemplation of the twentieth anniversary of the attack on us that day.

In his September 7 Washington Post column Marc Thiessen notes that Biden is set to visit Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and Shanksville on 9/11. Thiessen comments: Here is a better idea: stay away. Thiessen concludes:

As the evacuation took place, Biden repeatedly lied to the American people. He said no Americans were having trouble getting to the airport, which was blatantly untrue. He said the United States had no interest in Afghanistan because al-Qaeda was gone  when in fact al-Qaeda is deeply embedded with the Taliban. He claimed no allies were questioning the United States credibility, when many of our allies were aghast at his display of weakness and publicly pleading with him to extend his artificial deadline. He said that none of his military advisers had recommended leaving a residual force, when some had. He even asked the Afghan president to lie about how the fight against the Taliban was going, urging him to project a different picture whether it is true or not. And after it was all over, he still declared his Afghan debacle an extraordinary success.

Worst of all, Biden explicitly chose to time his withdrawal to the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. There was no military justification for this. If operational considerations had driven his decisions, he would never have withdrawn US forces during the summer fighting season. He pulled US forces out when he did because he wanted to use the 9/11 commemorations as a political prop  so he could bask in the glory of having ended Americas longest war by the anniversary of the attacks that necessitated it. Instead, his incompetence is turning this solemn day of remembrance into a victory celebration for the terrorists. Last week, the Taliban  our new Afghan partners  broadcast a video crowing that America brought 9/11 on itself by our policy of aggression against the Muslim world.

By his dereliction of duty, Biden has abdicated his right to commemorate the anniversary of 9/11. The president who surrendered Afghanistan to our terrorist enemies has no business setting foot in Shanksville, where the heroes of Flight 93 launched the first American counterattack. The president who lost 13 American service members by putting their security in the hands of terrorists has no business laying a wreath at the spot where Flight 77 hit the Pentagon. The president who left our citizens and allies behind in Afghanistan and lied to the American people has no business at Ground Zero. His presence would insult the memory of those who died in that sacred place  and those who gave life and limb to deliver justice to the enemies who struck us that day.
Peter Boghossian is (actually, after today, was) a professor of philosophy at Portland State University, and although he has always considered himself a progressive liberal, he has become completely alienated from our university culture today. His resignation letter to Portland State Provost Susan Jeffords is up at Bari Weisss popular Substack channel, and I encourage you to read the whole thing if you have time. I am glad to see it is getting a lot of attention today.

Key bits:

Dear Provost Susan Jeffords, Im writing to you today to resign as assistant professor of philosophy at Portland State University. . . [B]rick by brick, the university has made this kind of intellectual exploration impossible. It has transformed a bastion of free inquiry into a Social Justice factory whose only inputs were race, gender, and victimhood and whose only outputs were grievance and division. Students at Portland State are not being taught to think. Rather, they are being trained to mimic the moral certainty of ideologues. Faculty and administrators have abdicatedthe universitys truth-seeking mission and instead drive intolerance of divergent beliefs and opinions. This has created a culture of offense where students are now afraid to speak openly and honestly. I noticed signs of the illiberalism that has now fully swallowed the academy quite early during my time at Portland State. I witnessed students refusing to engage with different points of view. Questions from faculty at diversity trainings that challenged approved narratives were instantly dismissed. Those who asked for evidence to justify new institutional policies were accused of microaggressions. And professors were accused of bigotry for assigning canonical texts written by philosophers who happened to have been European and male.

Portland State has issued a generic statement claiming that Portland State University is committed to academic freedom and free speech. We respect and support the right of faculty, staff and students to share their views on any platform they choose. But the statement does not address a single point in Boghossians letter.

I got curious about the Provost, Susan Jeffords. And shes pretty much what youd expect. From a PSU news release on her hiring from the University of Washington three years ago:

Prior to UW Bothell, she was vice provost for global affairs for UW in Seattle. She also was an English professor at UW before becoming chair of the women studies department. She went on to become divisional dean for the social sciences. . . Jeffords has written and taught broadly in the area of American popular culture, with a particular emphasis on Hollywood film, the Vietnam War and feminism. She is committed to increasing opportunities for more diverse and underrepresented communities to participate actively in higher education, including expanding opportunities for international engagement.

So, a product of an English department. Great. And with no evidence of social science methodology expertise, somehow ended up as dean of social sciences at UW. And about those diverse and underrepresented communities in higher educationdoes that include white males, who appear to be very underrepresented in higher education administration, at least if Portland States senior academic affairs staff is any example?

I looked: PSUs academic affairs staff is currently 18 people (this obviously leaves out the Title IX offices, DEI offices, etc). Thirteen of the 18 are women. So much for gender equity. Four of the five men may be white males (one is clearly Asian from the name)it is hard to tell without photos. But it certainly sounds like an underrepresented community to me.

I keep hearing anecdote after anecdote of academic searches where white males are simply ruled out of a search selection on the basis of their skin and gender alone. They say the plural of anecdote is data: I think the EEOC ought to do an investigation of college hiring searches, and compile the statistics over time for how many white males made it to the typical three-finalist pools from which hires are made. My hypothesis is that the results would look as blatantly embarrassing as the information that came out on Harvards deliberate discrimination against Asians.
Yes, no matter what

Yes, but it depends on variety

No, for medical reasons, uncertainty

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The European Union under its Agents For Citizen-Driven Transformation (ACT) programme has collaborated with the Corporate Affairs Commissions (CAC) to develop a template for financial accounts online filing solution.

The EU-ACT hosted a workshop on Tuesday to review and finalise the standard financial accounts reporting templates for the CAC Financial Accounts Online Filing System.

If adopted, the online application will make it easy for non-governmental organisations and businesses to file their financial accounts.

It will also make it easy for MDAs to analyse data submitted and produce relevant intelligence reporting for different stakeholders.

Centrifuge Information Technology Limited is the firm that is developing the solution, the hosts of the event said.

According to them, the workshop aims to provide a forum for industry representatives (Accounting, Finance, Tax, CSOs) and relevant government MDAs to exchange experiences, best practices and make inputs to the draft standard financial accounts reporting templates for different categories of CSOs and businesses in Nigeria.

READ ALSO:

As technology becomes an integrated part of financial systems, the sophistication of features will only get more and more pronounced, participants said at the event.

The EU-ACT programme said it is supporting the CAC to develop and install a financial accounts online filing system for its customers under its strategic collaboration with the commission on strengthening civil society regulatory environment.

Speaking at the sideline of the workshop, component manager of the EU-ACT programme, Idem Udoekong, said the overall aim was to strengthen the capacity of CSOs, networks and coalitions to improve their institutional mechanism and programmatic competence in selected states across Nigeria.

It is also to facilitate and strengthen the CSO coordination platform for constructive engagement on the need to improve civil society regulatory environment in Nigeria, he said.

In his submission, Mohammed Abdullahi, a representative of the CAC, noted that online application will enable civil societies and registered entities to file their financial statements with the corporate affairs alongside their annual return.

He said the CAC looks forward to having synergy with other government agencies to create one financial statement across all government parastatals.

That will improve transparency, get accurate data and checkmate illicit financial transactions of registered entities, he added.
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Nigerias state-owned oil company, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), could be teetering on the brink of bankruptcy as the groups current liabilities outweigh its current assets by as much as N4.6 trillion, the auditors report of its 2020 financials issued on Wednesday showed.

The group reported a net profit of N287.2 billion (Corporation: N235.3 billion) during the year ended 31 December 2020 and, as at that date, the current liabilities exceeded its current assets by N4.6 trillion (Corporation: N729.1 billion), the auditors PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said.

These events or conditions, along with other matters as set forth in Note 42, indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the group and corporations ability to continue as a going concern.

But NNPC directors said they are upbeat about the corporations potential to keep running in the short term.

The directors assess the groups future performance and financial position on an ongoing basis and have no reason to believe that the group will not be a going concern in the year ahead, they said in the report.

READ ALSO:

NNPC, whose accounts had for years been kept away from public knowledge, announced its first profit in 44 years late August.

That has provoked curiosity among analysts, intent on knowing how the firm dramatically curbed losses from N803 billion in 2018 to N1.7 billion in 2019 and then the steep swing to a N287.2 billion profit last year.

Despite reporting the profit, accumulated losses in recent years came to N1.5 trillion for the group and N395 billion for the corporation.

Among the moves taken to mitigate the big threat to the continuity of its operations revealed by the audit scrutiny is NNPCs proposed recapitalisation, which Group Managing Director Mele Kyari said on Tuesday would come in the form of an initial public offering in three years time.

In January, cash-starved NNPC entered a pact with trading partners to pay it $1 billion in advance to finance the refurbishment of the Port Harcourt refinery, its biggest refinery infrastructure, requiring the corporation to pay back over seven years.

It had consummated a similar deal five months earlier when it agreed with Matrix and Vitol Group for a $1.5 billion prepayment to be repaid with 15,000 barrels of crude with each of the parties for five years.
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Edo Government on Thursday said it had recorded about 33 deaths so far with unvaccinated persons since the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

Ebomwonyi Osagie, head of the state COVID-19 case management, disclosed this during a news briefing in Benin.

Mr Osagie, a medical doctor, said the state had so far vaccinated about 93,000 persons, representing two per cent of the population, adding that the target was to vaccinate at least 10 per cent by the end of 2021.

He decried the non-adherence among residents to the NCDC COVID-19 protocols and guidelines, saying the recalcitrance had further compounded the COVID-19 challenge in the state.

Mr Osagie urged residents to leverage on the availability of the vaccines in the state to get vaccinated against the virus in order to stay alive.

READ ALSO:

Edo State in the last 24 hours recorded three more COVID-19-related deaths and 49 new confirmed cases, with a case positivity rate of 13.4 per cent.

We also recorded 10 recoveries, with 614 actives cases that are being managed at various treatment and isolation centres across the state, he said.

He, however, called on all residents, who were administered the first dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine to come out for the second dose to get full protection against the virus.

Mr Osagie also called on others who had yet to be vaccinated to come out and get the vaccination, stressing that the vaccines were safe and effective.

(NAN)
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The Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) on Wednesday expressed worry over dwindling patronage.

They lamented the fact that movies are being listed directly on movie streaming platforms, instead of cinemas where they could be watched by a wider public.

CEANs Chairman, Patrick Lee, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that the cinema experience is different from watching a movie on a mobile phone or computer.

Lee said the association was already discussing with the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and online streaming platforms, to arrive at a lasting solution.

Mr Lee said: We are speaking with the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) and Netflix to see that those movies be allowed to have some streaming time at the cinema. We welcome such investments because they will help the industry grow, he told NAN.

COVID-19

He also assured film enthusiasts across the country of their safety against COVID-19 in all cinemas.

Lee said considering the upsurge in the new variant of the pandemic, cinemas across the federation were also on alert to ensure that visitors strictly comply with COVID-19 safety protocols.

We are taking the new variant of COVID-19 pandemic seriously, we are aware of the upsurge and we keep reminding our members daily on the need to adhere to the safety protocols.

We are still keeping to the safety protocols of handwashing, social distancing, hand sanitising, temperature checks and the hall capacity agreed for each state.

In Lagos State, we agreed 50 percent hall capacity and we are keeping to the rule. We are also sending reminders to the 54 cinemas in the country, who are also sending to their staff to ensure the COVID-19 safety protocols are kept.

We are taking it seriously and happy that no case of COVID-19 pandemic had been linked to any cinema yet and we pray and hope that will continue, he said.

(NAN)
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The Nigerian Army has said its troops have arrested a top commander of Boko Haram, Yawi Modu, recently declared wanted by the force.

In a statement on Thursday in Abuja, the Army spokesperson, Onyema Nwachukwu, a brigadier general, said the troops also raided an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) materials hub in Borno and Yobe States.

The army had over five years ago declared over 100 terrorists wanted. It also published their pictures and pasted in public places.

The arrest of the commander comes even as several members of the terrorists group have repented and handed over themselves and families to the authorities.

Boko Haram and ISWAP have terrorised the North-east zone and Lake Chad region for over a decade.

The statement by Mr Nwachukwu said the army recovered over 200 bags of fertilizer recently banned by the federal government due to its explosive nature.

Read full statement:

OPERATION HADIN KAI: TROOPS ARREST HIGH PROFILE BOKO HARAM TERRORIST, RAID IED MATERIALS HUB IN THE NORTH EAST

Troops of Sector 2 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have arrested a high profile Boko Haram member and raided Boko Haram Improvised Explosive Devices materials hub in Damboa and Gashua Local Government Areas of Borno and Yobe States respectively. These operational feats were recorded following robust operations conducted by troops of OPHK.

Following a tip off, a wanted BH/ISWAP terrorist, one Yawi Modu, who has been on the wanted list was nabbed along Damboa-Wajiroko road.

READ ALSO:

Relatedly, troops have successfully busted a Urea Fertilzer syndicate known for supplying terrorists with IED materials. The market is believed to be the notorious hub for IED materials for BHT/ISWAP.

These ISWAP criminals facing the reality of obvious depletion are desperately acquiring IED materials to make explosive devices with which to unleash terror on innocent civilians, in a bid to remain relevant and present a posture of potency.

In the sting operation conducted, a total of Two Hundred and Eighty One 50 Kg bags of Urea were recovered from the warehouses in the market and two notorious BHT distributors were also arrested.

Recall that Urea fertilizer has been banned by Government because its use as a major component for manufacturing IED by terrorists. The suspects and materials recovered are currently undergoing preliminary investigation.

While commending the vigilance and resilence of the troops, the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has reassured them of his support in decisively tackling the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists.

ONYEMA NWACHUKWU

Brigadier General

Director Army Public Raltions

9 Sep 2021
(This is the second part of a series on the impact of banditry on rural Katsina communities. Read the first part here).

Misbahu Usman was sitting on a wooden bench under a veranda in the company of some middle-aged men. They were discussing local politics and governance when this reporter and his guide met them that Thursday morning in August in Bakin Kuka area of Jibia town of Katsina State. It was 11:30 a.m.

We should be in our farms by this time, Mr Usman said. His friends nodded in agreement. But look at us here, arguing and talking. What else can we do? We are idle because our farms are now a no go area.

Mr Usman had not been to his farm since the start of the rainy season. He said it would be suicidal to go to the farm because it is far from the town.

Those who have farms in the town or near the town are lucky, he said to PREMIUM TIMES.

Farming in an era of banditry

As banditry ravages Nigerias North-west states, farmers, especially in rural communities, are fleeing their farms. Cattle rustling used to be the predominant crime in rural Katsina, but now kidnapping has taken the centre stage and disrupted farming activities. Many farmers are either kidnapped for ransom or killed on their farms.

Many abandoned their farms because of incessant attacks by bandits on their communities. But in some parts of the states, according to some farmers who spoke to this newspaper, farming has been made pointless by the unrealistic levies imposed on farmers by the bandits.

We gathered over N700,000 and took it to the bandits in the forest just for them to let us go to our farms, Musa Sanusi, a young farmer in Yankara, Faskari Local Government Area, said.

Tired of running away from the bandits, Mr Sanusi said farmers in the area met the bandits controlling their area to strike a deal.

We contributed the money to give to the bandits. They accepted the money and promised us that nothing would happen to any of us after that.

But the safe passage that the bandits sold to the farmers was fake.

A few weeks after we paid N700,000, some of our friends were again attacked. When we went back to complain, the bandits leader said it must have been another gang that carried out the attacks. That was when I finally gave up.

Alhaji Ashiru holds the traditional title of Dan Masanin in Jibia. He said banditry has made him stop going to his farms.

I have a farm of about 43 hectares in Shimfida village where I used to plant maize, millet, guinea corn, beans and other crops. But I stopped going to the farm or sending workers there because I encountered the bandits twice. I was lucky that I or any of my workers was not kidnapped.

He said he abandoned all his farms located outside the town.

I have many farms in villages around us but I have abandoned them all for now. The one in Faru was the last to be abandoned two years ago. Even if you want to continue, will anyone agree to go and work for you? Mr Ashiru said.

Sale Mareni, who is in his 80s, is also a large-scale farmer in Jibia. He said he has forgotten about his farms.

I asked them (my children) to stop sending workers and stop going to the farms because you cannot sacrifice the lives of your children because of farming. I have been a farmer all my life and I know nothing else. Everything I have is because I am a large-scale farmer. But this time is difficult for us. In all my years as a farmer, I had never witnessed a situation like this.

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Mr Mareni sadly recollected how his house used to be a beehive of activities during the harvests. But he no longer has anything to reap.

No harvest

Murtala Yankara is a farmer in Yankara in Faskari Local Government Area. His village was attacked several times by bandits. He said the targets were usually the farmers.

Most of the attacks end up on us, he said. They hardly come into the town (Yankara) but wait outside for returning farmers or attack farmers in their farms.

Mr Yankara was never personally attacked but said most of his friends have relocated to the southwestern part of Nigeria because of the menace of the bandits in their own state.

Why did he stop going to his farm?

About this time last year, two of my younger brothers and I were working on the farm when I heard the roaring of their (bandits) motorcycles. We knew they had seen us because they quickly stopped and started discussing amongst themselves.

I told my younger brothers to run towards the village while I waited. They would have shot at us if we had all run at the same time. I was waiting for them to seal my fate, but they decided to go without even talking to me. However, the following morning, they attacked the village and kidnapped some of my neighbours.

He said most of his neighbours abandoned their crops on the farm during the 2020 harvest.

I lost all of my produce because I could not go to the farm. Soybeans, guinea corn and maize. Millions of naira gone just like that.

Some who wanted to dare the risk said they gave up because their farmworkers refused to go with them.

Those with cow carts for harrowing would not go so how do we even work on big farmlands like ours?

Muntari Mosko is also a young farmer in Jibia. He has a shop but says farming is his main occupation.

The bandits have taken over our farms. In Mallamawa village (in Batsari Local Government Area), they have taken away farms from their owners. Nobody goes to the farm anymore in that area.

Over 5,000 farms abandoned in 2020  Governors aide

The Special Adviser to the Katsina governor on agriculture, Abba Abdullahi, acknowledged that the situation in the state was dire.

He said farming has been badly hit by insecurity despite the efforts of the government and security agencies.

To be honest with you, insecurity has affected farming activities in no small measure in Katsina State. Last year (2020) alone, we recorded 5,884 abandoned farmlands covering over 58,330 hectares. There were also 590 cases of kidnapping while 159,613 cattle were rustled. It is heartbreaking.

He said official record showed that 226,650 farmers in the state were affected by the activities of bandits that year. He said the cases were reported in the 10 frontline local government areas of the state.

The so-called frontline local government areas are Jibia, Kankara, Batsari, Safana, Danmusa, Faskari, Sabuwa, Dandume, Kurfi and Dutsin Ma.

These are the areas where banditry is most prevalent in Katsina State. Some of them because of their closeness to the dreaded Rugu forest. Jibia also shares boundaries with Zamfara State and Niger Republic while Dandume, Sabuwa and Faskari share boundaries with Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger states.

According to the governors aide: This affected farm produce output by 30 per cent, which has made things difficult for farmers and affected food security. We expect that it will affect our output by 15 per cent this year.

Mr Abdullahi, however, said farmers in some areas had started returning to their farmlands, due to the efforts being made by the security agencies.

Banditry has dragged us backwards  AFAN

The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria in the state, Yau Gwajo Gwajo, said the activities of bandits have greatly affected farming especially in the local areas of Katsina.

Last year was horrific for us. Our members were forced to abandon their farmlands, Mr Gwajo Gwajo said. We recorded huge losses especially in the frontline areas because farmers were afraid of going to their farms.

Asked if they had made efforts to secure compensation for the farmers, Mr Gwajo Gwajo said the government was supporting farmers but said it goes beyond support.

Farmers greatest asset is their farmlands and that is what they need. We have witnessed some improvement in some areas compared to last year but we want a situation where every farmer can go to his farm without having to worry about his safety.

It is affecting food security  Lecturer

A lecturer at the department of Basic and Applied Science at Hassan Usman Katsina Polytechnic, Suleiman Iguda, spoke of many cases of farmers being chased out of their farms, theft of cattle, seizure of farmlands, burning and raiding of grain silos, killing and kidnapping of farmers.

The first implication of these attacks is reduction in the number of farmers. There is impoverishment of farmers because due to the killings, farmers are not willing to go to their farmlands as they will be chased out.

Cattle rearing has also become difficult because there is reduction in the quantity of crops stored in grain silos, Mr Iguda said.

Mr Yankara, the farmer in Fiskari Local Government Area, said he could only dream of a future when farmers in the troubled areas can return to their farms without fear of attacks or having to pay bandits for permission to work on their own farms.

When you take away farming from a village man, what else do you leave him with? All we know is farming and this is our life. We hope that one day, this too will be history. It is not easy but Allah will not let the bandits continue to win.

(Support for this report was provided by Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism with funding support from Free Press Unlimited).
Nigerias state-run oil company, NNPC, earned less revenue in 2020 than it did in 2019, but managed to record a historic profit that relied mostly on the reversal of amounts impaired for years, and on income from other sources, its audited statement released Wednesday said.

Impairment reversal is when a company declares an asset valuable after it previously declared it a liability.

The reversal related mainly to its recovery of strategic alliance amounts from the federation, the report said without giving further details, while its non-core business income included gain from the devaluation of the naira as well as refunds from the federation for expenses that had previously been written off.

Both subheads injected a huge boost to the corporations bottom-line to the tune of N1.39 trillion as against N11.5 billion loss recorded a year earlier.

The impairment reversals during the year relate mainly to the recovery of strategic alliance receivable amounts from the federation and reversal of full impairment on receivables which are no longer doubtful, it said.

These amounts were previously impaired in previous years.

Doubts

The results were published by the corporation over a week after President Muhammadu Buhari announced that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, known for its notoriously opaque financials until 2018 when its annual report was first made public, broke even in 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic pummelled economies and significantly cut crude oil demand.

The president, who named himself the Minister of Petroleum Resources, said the development was consistent with his administrations commitment to ensuring prudent management of resources and maximization of value for the Nigerian people from their natural resources.

Since the announcement, Nigerians and analysts curious to scrutinise how the oil firm dramatically cut losses from N803 billion in 2018 to N1.7 billion in year 2019, to a huge profit in 2020 at a time of Covid  the first time in its 44-year history  sought without success to make sense of the claim as the corporation held back its report.

The fact that the announcement from Mr Buhari instead of the NNPC itself, and happened shortly after the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act with provisions that statutorily tax the corporations profit, deepened scepticism.

The founder of Stanbic IBTC Plc., Atedo Peterside, said there was an allegation that NNPC dipped their fingers in the Federation Cookie Jar in order to announce bumper 2020 profits.

They should come clean and publish details of all dividends received by them and tell us which ones they recently diverted from the Federation to themselves, he tweeted on August 29.

Revenue and Profit

The released report says in 2020, the NNPC Group recorded N3.72 trillion as revenue as against N4.63 trillion recorded in 2019.

The corporation spent big on the cost of sales of petroleum products, selling and distribution expenses, and general and administrative expenses.

The bulk of the cost of sales went to payment of fuel subsidy, which exceeded a trillion naira, while the revenue came from crude oil sales, petroleum product sales, sales of natural gas and other services.

Shady past

The NNPC ran for decades without transparency and successive governments illegally deployed its proceeds to finance expenditure not approved by the National Assembly. In 2019, the Mele Kyari-led management released its first audited report.

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Mr Kyari told journalists on August 26 the 2020 profit became possible after the firm cut costs.

There are very drastic changes to the way we do our business. One is to cut costs, to be more efficient, and also to ensure that this company is transparent and accountable to Nigerian people, and therefore is a process that started in 2015, Vanguard quoted him as saying.

The first principle of course elimination is that, dont buy what you dont need. And we simply stopped buying what we dont need. Also, particularly in fiscal 2020 whoever they engaged in all our contracts we insisted on cutting costs to at least 30 percent.

This worked, and were able to pull down most of our procurement costs by 30 percent totally. We saw the opportunity to be much more efficient by automating our system and process, and processes that made us faster and also ultimately it reduced so much of logistic costs that ordinarily would have been additional costs on our business so why do you combine all these.
As Nigeria joins the world today, September 9, 2021, to mark the second anniversary of the International Day to Protect Education from Attacks, the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) Chief of Maiduguri Field Office in Borno State, Phuong Nguyen, speaks with PREMIUM TIMES Mojeed Alabi, on the impacts of violent attacks on education in North-east Nigeria and the country as a whole.

With over 20 years experience managing programmes in complex emergency as well as development contexts across Asia, Africa, Middle East and the Pacific Islands, Ms Nguyen, prior to her current role, was the Chief of Education in UNICEF Somalia. She held the same office in Jordan and South Sudan.

Among other crucial roles, she was the Regional Peacebuilding and Education Manager in Nepal where she provided quality assurance and oversight, knowledge leadership, strategic representation and partnerships support to the Peacebuilding, Education and Advocacy Programme across several South Asian countries.

Ms Nguyen had also led support on Education-in-Emergency coordination, preparedness, and response in cooperation with governments, humanitarian and development partners in a number of countries throughout her career with UNICEF.

Ms Nguyen is an alumna of Brandeis University in Massachusetts, and George Mason University and Virginia Commonwealth University in Virginia, United States.

Below is the excerpt of the interview:

To begin with, how bad is the impact of attacks on schools in Borno and North-east Nigeria?

Ms Nguyen: Historically, poor participation in education in North-east Nigeria has been exacerbated by armed conflict and insurgency, as a result of which 1,400 schools were damaged, more than one million children forced out of school, and 2,295 teachers killed between 2009 and 2020.

All schools in Borno State were closed from December 2013 to June 2015 due to the escalation of the conflict while in Yobe and Adamawa States, schools have also been closed for shorter periods on an ad hoc basis. The Education-in-Emergency Working Group Nigeria Joint Education Needs Assessment (JENA), November 2019 found that conflict continues to affect the ability of schools to remain open and provide lessons across north-east Nigeria. The JENA 2019 also reports that most schools assessed in Adamawa and Borno states had stopped functioning at some point since 2012 due to the emergency (71% and 68% respectively), as had 43% of schools in Yobe. In the first half of 2021, Borno faced a drastic reduction in humanitarian access with an escalation of actions of Non State Armed Groups (NSAGs) targeting teachers and threatening those who support educational activities.

How much could you say this development has affected the interest of children, students and the parents?

Ms Nguyen: Since the inception of the conflict in north-east Nigeria, education has been identified as a direct target of violence. As reported in the Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO) 2021, armed conflict, communal violence, natural disasters and resulting economic challenges have aggravated existing challenges and gaps in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States. An estimated 52% of school-aged children have never attended school and the annual drop-out rate for children in the north-east is the highest in Nigeria, demonstrating the gravity of barriers to education. The crisis has caused large-scale displacement within Nigeria and across borders creating hundreds of thousands of IDPs and returnees. This displaced population is significantly less likely to participate in education and that is especially true for IDPs and returnees living in formal or non-formal camps, many of whom live far from government schools and have limited income to spend on school and school related costs. Among this group, girls are especially unlikely to participate in organized learning activities because of the greater domestic burden that family and community placed upon them, concerns about protection and interaction with unrelated males and perceptions that girls may not need education. Female teachers consequently have a larger and more important role to play as mentors to girls who want to pursue education continuation and completion. Girls are less likely to drop out at the upper primary level when they have female teachers as mentors. Host community children, IDPs and returnees living in host communities may have better access to schools, but often also struggle in schools which do not have conducive learning conditions such as overcrowding or lack of supplies and qualified teachers.

What are the current statistics of out-of-school children in the North-east?

Ms Nguyen: Based on the HNO 2021, an estimated 52 per cent of school-aged children have never attended school and the annual drop-out rate for children in the north-east is the highest in Nigeria, demonstrating the gravity of barriers to education.

How dangerous is this to the future of education in the North-east considering the poor state of education before the conflict?

Ms Nguyen: The high rate of out-of-school children (OOSC) in the state and the country at large is seriously alarming to all well-meaning citizens. This is because it poses a great threat to the economic well-being of the state and the nation in a larger perspective. Several literatures confirmed a high degree of correlation between education and economic development of countries. Promoting education in the society is one of the surest ways of keeping the economic and political stability of the nation. The implication of having OOSC is that we cannot achieve social, economic, and political stability. Because the children left without education today will surely grow up uninformed and they may be vulnerable to all sorts of unhealthy ideologies that can jeopardize the peace of the state/nation.

Could you briefly enumerate some forms of interventions by UNICEF in the region?

Ms Nguyen: UNICEF has been working hard to reduce the number of OOSC in the state and improve the quality of education from early childhood to adolescence. To reduce OOSC, there must be a multi-sectoral approach among education actors involving governments, the private sector, and communities. Therefore, UNICEF expanded its interventions in this regard to not only Borno State Universal Basic Education Board (BOSUBEB) but also to the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID); the Borno State Ministry of Religious Affairs (BoSMoRA); the Borno State Agency for Mass Education (BoSAME) and indeed other NGOs to ensure that OOSC are reached and haves access to education. UNICEF provides its partners with the tools and all the needed support to strengthen Non-formal Education programmes that improve equitable access to education as well as ensure that children are truly learning, leading to a reduction in the number of OOSC.

UNICEF provides technical support in piloting and scaling up interventions that promote on-time enrolment, reduce childrens school drop-out rate, re-enrol children who have dropped out, and provide alternative pathways to education and alternative skills acquisition in established multiple vocational training centres. For instance, partnership with BoSMoRA, UNIMAID and the Borno Islamiyya School Association (BOSISA), a civil society organisation has led to the provision of access to education for over 160,000 OOSC, Tsangaya and Islamiyya within Maiduguri Metropolis, Jere and Mafa Local Government Area of Borno State, Nigeria. UNICEF deploys a multisectoral approach in reaching and retaining OOSC in school. In collaboration with partners, we provide gender-sensitive and inclusive water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities in schools to ensure inclusiveness. Child protection measures are in place to ensure that children are protected in school. UNICEF also provides deworming services and supports school health programmes, all in effort to see more OOSC enrolled, retain and complete at least basic education.

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Going by your response, it means your interventions in addressing the consequences of attacks on schools are largely concentrated in Borno State. Why is this so?

Ms Nguyen: The Education-in-Emergency programme supported by UNICEF Maiduguri Field Office covers Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States. The UNICEF Maiduguri Field Office has interventions in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States and in some instances in Gombe State as it is also affected by the crises. For example, annual Enrolment Drive Campaigns are conducted across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States. Other programmes include the rehabilitation and construction of schools, provision of learning supplies and building the capacity of teachers as well as the School-based Management Committees (SBMCs) in all BAY states as we call them. The fact that Borno remains the epicenter of the crises underscores our emphasis on Borno most of the time. UNICEF is supporting Adamawa and Yobe state governments with the construction and rehabilitation of classrooms, offices and fences in over 200 schools which are nearing completion to be used for the new school year beginning in October to improve access to education for teeming out-of-school children across these states.

Do you believe that improved budgetary allocation to education by the government at all levels can help to tackle the menace as well?

Ms Nguyen: Education budgets in most states do not take education in emergency into consideration as such there are no budget lines to protect schools against attack. Therefore, increasing budgetary allocation to address emerging issues like the protection of schools against attack will tackle the menace of attack on schools.

Beyond Borno State, how can UNICEF mobilise support towards addressing the challenge across the country, especially the issue of out-of- school children?

Ms Nguyen: UNICEF has supported UBEC at the national level to develop the Enrolment Drive Campaign (EDC) strategy where annually, more than 1 million children are enrolled in schools. UBEC has now taken over this activity and it is conducted annually.

Moreover, UNICEF has supported states to implement alternative education programmes for those who have preference for vocational education and those who are beyond the primary school age. These efforts are part of the quest to reduce the number of OOSC. Over the years, UNICEF has learnt that a large number of learners, who enroll after the EDC but they hardly stay to complete their education. This is due to many factors, including the quality of education available. Hence, UNICEF has put more effort into improving the quality of education through innovative teachers training programmes and learning outcome improvement interventions for children. A good example is the Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL) methodology which has proved very effective at keeping children in school.

Apart from three states, many other states have been forced to shut down schools including Kaduna, Zamfara, Niger and even Katsina States. Dont you think the agenda of the non-state actors is already being achieved?

Ms Nguyen: I dont think they have achieved their agenda. It may look as such at the beginning just the way it happened in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States where schools were closed for more than two academic sessions when the crisis was at its peak. This compelled education actors to think out of the box and develop strategies to forestall future occurrence of total closure of schools in BAY states. We have put in place Conflict and Disaster Risk Reduction (CDRR) plans in place in each school and this has perfectly worked many times. Again, we have developed remote learning strategies in the case of school closures to ensure continuity of teaching and learning. The current situation in NW states will also ensure that education stakeholders come up with core strategies to ensure continuity of education in this ever-changing context.

What lasting solution would you recommend towards addressing the degenerating insecurity and the attacks on schools, in particular?

Ms Nguyen: This is the ratification and domestication of the Safe School Declaration (SSD) in all states across the federation. The SSD is geared towards providing a safe and protective learning environment for learners, education personnel and education infrastructure.

Again, the participation of SBMCs and Parents-Teachers-Associations in CDRR and school emergency preparedness and response plans where schools coordinate with critical stakeholders to ensure schools and learners are protected should be strengthened.

In Naira and Kobo, how much do you think Nigeria would require to fix education facilities that have been attacked both in the North-east and the whole of the country?

Ms Nguyen: This can only be determined after thorough assessment of the extent of damage. As you know, some of these locations are not accessible now. This should be done by location as they become accessible since the situation is not yet over. UNICEF counts on the full support of the government and other appropriate actors to enable humanitarian access into currently inaccessible areas in order to undertake full need assessment and provide the necessary support.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that weekly COVID-19 cases in Africa fell by more than 20 per cent, the sharpest seven-day decline in two months as the third wave pandemic tapers off.

Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, made this known during a virtual press conference on Thursday.

Quoting reports, she said that the African continent registered more than 165,000 cases in the week ending September 5, a 23 per cent decline from the previous week.

Mrs Moeti said that, however, due to the impact of more transmissible variations, the rate of slowing is slower than in prior rounds.

She said that the more contagious Delta variant that partly fueled the third wave has been dominant in several countries that experienced COVID-19 surge.

According to her, in Southern Africa, for instance, more than 4000 COVID-19 genome sequencing data was produced in August.

Mrs Moeti said that the Delta variant was detected in over 70 per cent of samples from Botswana, Malawi and South Africa and in over 90 per cent from Zimbabwe.

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According to her, while COVID-19 cases have declined appreciably, the downward trend is frustratingly slow due to the lingering effects of the more infectious Delta variant.

We are spearheading critical work and supporting countries in scaling up pathogen surveillance through genome sequencing to detect and respond effectively to COVID-19 variants.

She said that in collaboration with the South African National Bioinformatics Institute, WHO was at the forefront of the efforts to set up the Regional Centre of Excellence for Genomic Surveillance and Bioinformatics in Cape Town.

The centre will support 14 countries before being expanded to serve more countries.

Mrs Moeti said that in 2020, WHO and partners established a COVID-19 sequencing laboratory network in Africa which has to date produced nearly 40,000 sequencing data.

The continent lags far behind the rest of the world when it comes to sequencing, with only one per cent more than three million COVID-19 sequences conducted worldwide occurring in Africa.

The third wave has shown us how variants can hijack the efforts to tame the pandemic, she said.

According to her, countries must step up surveillance because without genomic information, variants can spread undetected. You cant fix what you dont measure.

Mrs Moeti said that WHO has also recently provided financial support to countries, including Eswatini, Sao Tome and Principe and Senegal to reinforce genomic surveillance.

According to her, to date the dominant Delta variant has been detected in 31 African countries, while the Alpha and Beta variants have respectively been identified in 44 and 39 countries.

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The C.1.2 variant, initially identified in South Africa, has so far been detected in 130 cases in 10 countries globally, including five in Africa.

Although the variant has exhibited concerning mutations, there is no evidence that it is more transmissible or may affect vaccine efficacy, but more research is needed.

As Africas third COVID-19 pandemic wave eases off, vaccine shipments to the continent continue to grow, with around 5.5 million doses received through COVAX in the first week of September, Mrs Moeti said.

She said that, however, only around 3 per cent of the continents population is fully vaccinated.

To ultimately tip the scales against this pandemic, our best efforts to reduce transmission through public health measures must be met by a significant step-up in vaccine supplies and vaccinations, Mrs Moeti said.

(NAN)
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Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation today called on governments to support a UN-led process to regulate the trade in law enforcement equipment, highlighting how ubiquitous weapons like police batons are routinely misused in ways that can constitute torture and other ill-treatment.

In a new investigation, Blunt Force, the organisations catalogued 188 incidents where law enforcement officials have misused striking weapons such as batons, which are currently traded with little to no regulation. The investigation draws on open-source photo and video evidence from 35 countries, and includes examples from violent crackdowns on protests in Belarus, Colombia, France, India and Myanmar. Videos show law enforcement officials using batons and similar weapons like lathis and sjamboks to inflict punishment, beat people who are already restrained, deliver unjustified dangerous blows to the head, or choke people in neck holds.

As a UN process to create an international regulatory framework moves ahead, Amnesty and Omega are calling for tighter controls on the trade in less lethal law enforcement weapons, as well as an outright ban on certain types of inherently abusive equipment used for torture or the death penalty.

Batons can cause serious injury and even death when used improperly. Yet the trade in law enforcement equipment like this continues to benefit from a shocking absence of regulation. Governments should be obliged to conduct rigorous risk assessments before allowing this equipment to be exported, said Verity Coyle, Advisor on Military, Security and Policing at Amnesty International.

States should also ensure that law enforcement agencies are trained and instructed in human rights compliant policing, including in the context of public assemblies, where many of the violations we documented took place. There are international standards governing how police can use force, but our investigation shows these being flouted all over the world  with profoundly dangerous consequences.

Commonly used  and abused

Striking devices are the most common type of less-lethal weapon, carried by police and security forces worldwide. These include batons, lathis (long sticks) and sjamboks (rigid whips). The widespread deployment of this equipment means it is also among the most frequently abused, especially in the context of crackdowns on protests.

Some less-lethal weapons and equipment can have a legitimate use in law enforcement, if employed correctly and in line with international standards. Law enforcement officials face a wide variety of situations which require instantaneous decisions, often in highly stressful and even dangerous circumstances. But the use of force must only be resorted to with the utmost respect for the law, and with due consideration for the serious impact it can have on a range of human rights.

Under the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials (BPUFF), police may only use force for a legitimate law enforcement purpose, and may not use more force than needed to achieve this objective. Any potential harm caused by police using force must not outweigh the harm they want to prevent. Furthermore, as with other means of force, batons must never be used for the purpose of punishment. These rules also apply in the context of policing public assemblies. Blunt Force shows how law enforcement officials routinely act against international human rights law and standards by attacking protesters who present no threat of violence.

Amnesty Internationals Crisis Evidence Lab and Digital Verification Corps analysed more than 500 videos of protests between 2011 and 2021, identifying and verifying 188 incidents of baton misuse. Videos of five illustrative cases are available here, with Amnesty and Omegas analysis of how international standards have been breached in each case.

For example, a video from Hong Kong shows a young male protester being repeatedly hit with batons by several officers. One of the officers strikes the protester on the head, causing bleeding. Strikes to the head are particularly dangerous and can even be fatal, and putting another life at risk is prohibited under international law and standards, if it is not unavoidable and in response to a similarly serious threat. Crucially, the video shows that officers clearly had other, less harmful options at their disposal to achieve their aim of arresting the protester.

Footage from Belarus shows riot police leading a protester down some stairs. An officer strikes the protester on the back of the legs even though he is not resisting arrest; while being held by one officer, the protester is then struck on the back of the head with a baton and punched in the face and stomach. Baton strikes while a subject is under control are unnecessary and disproportionate, and amount to using batons punitively  which amounts to torture or other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, a violation of international law.

UN process

The UN Secretary-General has tasked a group of experts to develop proposals with the aim of creating an international framework to regulate the trade in equipment that can be used for torture or in the death penalty. This includes less-lethal equipment like batons and tear gas. They must report back to the UN General Assembly in 2022.

Given the clear risk of common law enforcement weapons being misused, any global framework to regulate the trade must cover the broadest possible scope of equipment.

Dr Michael Crowley, Research Associate at the Omega Research Foundation, said:

A growing number of states have recognised the need to address the trade in law enforcement weapons and equipment, as part of the global fight against torture and other ill-treatment. The ongoing UN process to develop common international standards is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to regulate a trade which has been out of control for decades.

We call on all states to support the creation of a global, legally binding instrument which bans inherently abusive equipment and weapons and places strict controls on the trade in standard law enforcement equipment, to ensure it is never sent to those who will use it for torture or other ill-treatment. To make a real difference, such regulation must cover the types of weapons, such as batons, that are most regularly misused by law enforcement officials around the world.
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A Nigerian, Mohammed Keana, has been selected among the fourth cohort of Obama Foundation Scholars in the United States.

He is among the two groups of 12 emerging leaders from around the world who will study at Columbia University for the 2021-2022 academic year, the foundation announced.

At Columbia University, Mr Keana will join other Obama scholars to complete a nine-month residency with Columbia World Projects, an initiative that mobilises the universitys faculty and researchers to work with governments, non-governmental organisations, businesses, and communities to create tangible solutions to real-world issues.

This cohort will also participate in seminars, personal and professional development workshops, audited coursework, and other programming designed in consultation with the Foundation, the foundation said.

Launched in 2018, the programme is designed to inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders with the tools they need to make their efforts more effective and impactful across their global communities.

It is truly remarkable to see the steadfast commitment of these rising leaders working to meet the economic, educational, and social needs of their communities across the globe, said Obama Foundation President Valerie Jarrett.

These individuals have displayed profound courage, dedication, and the spirit needed to create lasting change in the world, especially during challenging times. Im thrilled to welcome this cohort of Scholars.

Profile

Mr Keana is from Nasarawa State in North-central Nigeria.

He is an alumnus of the Federal Government College, Keffi, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, class of 2006 and 2011 respectively.

He is the founder and team lead of the Almajiri Child Rights Initiative (ACRI), an advocacy group that amplifies the call for education and social inclusion for West Africas most at-risk children.

ACRI uses a child-rights-centered approach to develop and deliver direct support programmes for vulnerable out-of-school children in northern Nigeria and raises awareness among policymakers at all levels of governance to bring attention to this issue.

The ACRIs child-protection interventions are believed to have reached more than 5,000 children across 15 states in northern Nigeria and its advocacy campaigns have garnered international attention and partnerships with states and non-state actors  the Nigerian government at state and federal levels, and international organisations.

Mr Keana is a recipient of the United Nations SDG Action award in Bonn Germany. He has also received an Ambassador of Peace award by Universal Peace Federation in Missouri, USA and NCMG International Peace Award Nigeria, for his work with vulnerable children.

He is a fellow of the Leap Africa Social Innovators Programme and is passionate about human rights and good governance.

In 2019, Mr Keana received the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Action Awards as one of three finalists in the includer category, which recognises extraordinary efforts to ensure that no one is left behind in a countrys sustainable development, a core principle of the 2030 Agenda.

He is a LEAP African Fellow and a trained microbiologist with a bachelors degree from Ahmadu Bello University and a masters degree in development studies from the Nigerian Defense Academy.
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Hunters in Ogun State have secured the release of Fasasi Olanigan, a retired lecturer of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, who was kidnapped on Wednesday by gunmen.

The victims younger brother, Abass Olanigan, confirmed the rescue by the hunters in Isaga axis where the kidnapping took place. He said that after intensive combing of the forest by the hunters, the kidnappers abandoned the victim and fled.

Mr Olanigan, who was kidnapped while driving from Abeokuta to Imasai town in Ogun State, has been reunited with his family after receiving treatment in a hospital.

It was gathered that the kidnappers had contacted the family on Wednesday night and demanded N25 million before they would release Mr Olanigan.

The hunters, who rescued him, took him to the traditional ruler of Isaga, and later to the police station. Afterwards, Mr Olanigan was moved to a private hospital in Abeokuta, for treatment, following injuries sustained from the treatment the bandits meted on him. The kidnappers had dragged him into the bush after flagging down his car.
Ahead of the 2023 general elections, a former governor of Borno State, Ali Modu Sheriff, has asked Nigerians to choose a leader with capacity irrespective of where he or she comes from.

The leader, he said, can hail from any part of Nigeria as long as he can bring succour to Nigerians.

He made the statement in Abuja while receiving members of an All Progressives Congress (APC) pressure group, Frontier for Equality Leadership and Good Governance, on Thursday in Abuja.

The group had visited the former governor to ask that he contests for the position of APC National Chairman.

While he asked Nigerians to discard ethnicity and religion when choosing the next president, he said competence should be the main focus of Nigerians in making a choice.

Unless we believe in ourselves as a nation, and believe all of us are equal and believe that a good leader will emerge from any part of the country, regardless of religion, tribe or where he comes from, we will not succeed in getting the country we dearly love.

We must put our differences aside and look for leaders from anywhere.

If the man that will bring succour to Nigeria is coming from a mountain in Ogoja (Cross River), we should go and look for him. If it is in the extreme end of Adamawa, we should go and look for him. If he is coming from the end of Anambra, we should go and look for him. We must do soul-searching and look for a leader, Mr Sheriff said.

Leadership cross

The former governor also warned Nigerians against criticising their leaders and asked that prayers be made for them.

When I see people criticise leaders on what they know nothing about, I pray for them because you will only know the challenges of this country when you are saddled with responsibility. When we have leaders we should pray for them that God will intervene, we should not curse our leaders.

If you must blame any leader you must look at the followers, what have we done? To help our leaders to be strong  and we have to do soul searching.

Everyday we wake up with a different challenge and these challenges are not only for our leaders, we must understand that, it is for all of us, he said.

APCs burden

Mr Sheriff who was once the National Chairman of Nigerias main opposition party, PDP, stated that the APC might have lost the trust of Nigerians.

The party, he said, must work harder than ever before to gain the confidence of Nigerians in order to retain power beyond 2023.

He noted that by the end of the tenure of the President Muhammadu Buhari in 2023, the APC would have to work extra-hard to gain a fraction of the 12 million votes which the Buhari administration carried over the years.

In response to the groups for him to contest for the national chairmanship of the APC, he said he would only contest if the position is zoned to the North-east.

Mr Sheriffs comments comes amidst uncertainty as to where the presidential ticket for the APC will be zoned to.

Although he is yet to officially declare his intention to run for the position of chairmanship, PREMIUM TIMES had reported him saying his decision to contest is largely dependent on how the position is zoned by the party.

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Whether I will run for the office or not will be determined by what the caretaker committee takes as a decision on where the leadership of the party will go. Whether it will go to another place or it will remain in our zone.

If it goes to another zone, I will not contest. But if it stays in our zone, I will contest, he had said.

He is among other key political players jostling for the position.

Others are former governor of Nasarawa State and serving senator, Tanko Al-Makura; his counterparts from Borno and Gombe, Kashim Shettima and Danjuma Goje, who are also serving senators; former governor of Zamfara, Abdulaziz Yari; a former member of the House of Representatives from Bauchi, Ibrahim Baba; and a former chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria in Abuja, Sunny Moniedafe from Adamawa State.

The party is expected to hold its national elective convention before the end of the year.

It is, however, not clear when Mr Sheriff and other aspirants will publicly declare their intent to contest.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated its National Campaign Council for the 6 November Anambra governorship election.

The PDP acting National Chairman, Yemi Akinwonmi, inaugurated the council on Thursday in Abuja.

Mr Akinwonmi said the party was optimistic that the members of the council who were carefully selected were competent enough to deliver the state back to PDP.

I call on all members of the council and Ndi Anambra to close ranks and deliver the state to the PDP family. The cooperation of all and sundry is expected for the actualisation of PDPs dream.

I will like to seize this opportunity to appreciate on behalf of the PDP, all the aspirants, who dramatically contested with the candidate, your spirit of sportsmanship is wonderful. I call on you to deliver Anambra to PDP.

We call on all of us to set aside differences and look at the PDP and Nigeria above personal consideration. Anambra is winnable for PDP, Mr Akinwonmi said.

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The Deputy Chairman of the Council and Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta said PDP would win the poll.

Mr Okowa said the state had always been under the PDP, until recently, when the party had issues there.

We want to reassure the party that we are going to put in all efforts to ensure that we reconcile everyone.

We will go into that election as one finitely we are going to win that election by the special grace of God.

We know our people in Anambra are party people. We know also that there have been issues in the past, those issues that divided us.

We are going to work day and night to ensure that we all step out from our comfort zones and step into the field to talk to the people and to win back all who have left the party, as much as possible, Mr Okowa said.

He ruled out rigging in the election going by the introduction of new technology by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

 I am glad that INEC itself has come out with a new device of the Anambra election and it will be tested first in Delta on Saturday.

I am told ahead of the election in Delta on Saturday that it will not be possible for anybody to rig election because there will be no use of incidence forms.

It is either your biometrics or your facial is captured or else you will not be allowed to vote.

Going to communicate to the people at the grassroots and we know that we as a party own the grassroots in Anambra, he said.

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Mr Okowa assured that the council would work with the state campaign council to deliver the state back to the PDP.

Valentine Ozigbo, the PDP governorship candidate for the poll, expressed gratitude to the party for finding him worthy of being its candidate.

He also commended party leaders, councils both at the national and state level as well as the people of the state for their support.

Mr Ozigbo pledged not to disappoint the party, promising to ensure the dividends of democracy to the peoples are delivered, if elected.

I am here pledge a pledge that we will put in everything we have to ensure we regain the lost glory in Anambra and the PDP will take over the state this year.

I am also pledging a pledge (sic) that not only are we going to win, but we will do our best to ensure not just to deliver dividends of a democracy, but we ensure that we set a standard of governance in Anambra.

Anambra people, if youre listening to me today, your victory is here, your freedom is here, development is on the way.

I recalled the joy that erupted when I was announced as the candidate. The greater joy will erupt on November 6, when I will emerge as a good governor of Anambra, Mr Ozigbo said.

NAN)
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The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) on Wednesday night disclosed that five more people have died from the coronavirus pandemic.

Data from the disease centre shows that the fatality toll now stands at 2,578, as additional 559 new infections were confirmed across 14 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The data also indicates that the new cases increased Nigerias number of active cases to 9,089 from 8,755 reported 24 hours earlier.

Breakdown

Lagos State in the South-west recorded the highest infections in Nigeria with 232 cases out of 597 infections. This is followed by Rivers and Enugu States with 83 and 66 cases respectively.

Oyo State recorded 28 infections to rank fourth on the chart while Kaduna ranked 5th with 25 cases. The FCT and Delta State registered 24 and 22 cases respectively.

Akwa Ibom recorded 19 cases, followed by Kwara and Ekiti State with 18 and 13 cases respectively.

Meanwhile, both Bayelsa and Cross River states recorded nine cases each while Ogun reported six; Kano, three and Gombe State recorded two cases as the state with the lowest figure.
Governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have said they are working together for the party to present a unified force in the 2023 general elections.

The Chairman of PDP Governors Forum, Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State, disclosed this on Wednesday night while briefing journalists after the forums meeting held in Abuja.

Mr Tambuwal said that the closed-door meeting on the partys forthcoming national convention, which started around 3 p.m., was very fruitful.

Crisis broke out in the main opposition recently over moves to oust its national chairman, Uche Secondus.

The National Executive Committee (NEC) has since fixed 30 and 31 October for the national convention to elect new members of the National Working Committee (NWC) for the party.

The Secondus-led NWC was elected in December 2017.

We have been meeting since 3 p.m., meeting for about seven hours. Very fruitful deliberation, Mr Tambuwal said.

You must have seen that we received leaders of our party in various other states where we dont have governors.

We had robust discussion with them on how to move the party forward, bringing all the leaders together, not only working towards a best national convention, but even beyond that.

So that we can continue to sustain the goodwill that PDP is enjoying in Nigeria and send the right signal to Nigerians that we are truly prepared and working together as a family to ensure that, by the grace of God, come 2023, we present a very united force that will rescue Nigeria from the mis-governance of APC.

Mr Tambuwal stated that the governors discussed the partys elective national convention scheduled for October 30 in Abuja.

You will hear from National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting tomorrow (Thursday) what the position is going to be.

The partys NEC is scheduled to meet on Thursday to ratify the issues of zoning the partys national elective positions ahead of the October 30 national convention.

The forum chairman said the governors and the party leaders also discussed the PDP preparations for Anambra governorship election.

He said that the governors were united in working for the victory of the partys candidate in Anambra governorship election, Vincent Ozigbo.

We also had in our meeting, our candidate in Anambra governorship election, where we received briefing from him on how prepared our party is in Anambra, and to confirm to you and Nigerians that all of us are united in supporting our party in Anambra.

By the grace of God we shall work assiduously towards winning Anambra election, he said.

The meeting was attended by PDP governors of Bauchi, Rivers, Adamawa, Benue, Oyo, Enugu, Edo, Delta, Taraba and Bayelsa states.

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Former governors who attended the meeting included Ahmed Makarfi of Kaduna, Sule Lamido of Jigawa, Ibrahim Shema of Katsina, Idris Ibrahim of Kogi, Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe, Liyel Imoke of Cross River.

Others were Emeka Ihedioha of Imo and Babangida Aliyu of Niger.

Other stakeholders present were, Tanimu Turaki, Pius Ayim, Uche Ekwunife, Enyinnaya Abaribe, and former Senate President, David Mark.

(NAN)
Israel has long sought to retake its position as an observer state at the African Union (AU). It had this status with the Organisation of African Unity until that continental body became the AU in 2002. AU Commission chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat has now opened the door to Israel again  and not everyone is welcoming his decision.

But how important is this issue for Africa and the AU, and does it suggest any significant changes in the continents relations with Israel?

If its accreditation is not overturned, Israel will join a growing list of more than 90 external partners endorsed by the AU. It will have limited access to AU documents and sit as an observer when invited to meetings. Accredited non-African states and organisations are expected to support the AUs work in the spirit of its founding principles.

Most African governments have been silent on Mr Fakis July decision. This could indicate Israels growing influence on the continent due to changing global dynamics, particularly the normalisation of relations with several Arab countries in 2020.

But the move has upset 21 of the AUs 55 states, some of which are members of the League of Arab States and Southern African Development Community  so much so that the matter will be reassessed when African foreign ministers meet in October.

Israels request for accreditation follows an improvement in its relations with some League of Arab States members, including Morocco and Sudan. But several southern and north African countries object to what they see as Fakis unilateral decision to receive credentials from Israels ambassador to Ethiopia, Burundi and Chad without adequate consultation with AU member states.

Most of the opposition is based on political and procedural concerns. The legal basis for AU accreditation follows criteria for granting observer status, based on a system adopted by the Executive Council in 2005.

This system allows non-African states to participate in open sessions of the AUs Peace and Security Council (PSC) and the opening and closing sessions of AU summits. States also get limited access to AU documents and may be invited by the commission chairperson to participate in meetings and make statements. They cannot vote, however.

The criteria allow the chairperson to consider accreditation applications, bearing in mind the supreme interest of the Union and the known views and concerns of member states. Only if they are convinced that there are no reasons why such a request should not be acceded to shall it be approved.

Countries that have criticised Mr Fakis decision claim that all African member states are unlikely to support Israels accreditation, given the AUs political stance on Palestine. The AU has called for an end to the Israeli occupation that started in 1967, [and] the independence of the state of Palestine on boundaries of 4 June 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Those opposing Mr Faki on the issue say the AU rejected two previous applications by Israel in 2013 and 2016 for this reason. As the situation in Palestine has not changed, they argue, neither should Israels status. They claim the move would be against the AUs founding principles and vision. However, several of these states, including South Africa and Botswana, have bilateral relations with Israel. This raises questions about their objections to the continent having relations with Israel.

In response to the criticism in early August, Mr Faki acknowledged the AUs continued commitment to a two-state solution for Palestine but argued that accreditation fell within his mandate. He also pointed out that more than 40 AU member states have bilateral relations with Israel and may not oppose its status change.

Israel has, in recent years, normalised relations with many African countries as its interest in the continent has grown, and regional and world politics has shifted in its favour. Improved dealings with Sudan and Morocco in 2020 followed a series of cooperation agreements between Israel and Arab states, mediated by the United States.

Israels supporters in the accreditation debate, including Sudan, Morocco and Somalia, compare the situation to the United Kingdoms (UK) occupation of Mauritiuss Chagos islands. African leaders have consistently called for the decolonisation of Palestine from Israeli occupation, as they have done in the case of the islands. But since the UKs accreditation to the AU has never come under scrutiny, neither should Israels, they argue.

AU rules and procedures require that if even one member state objects to the accreditation of a non-African state, the Executive Council must decide. Given the current lack of consensus, the issue will go to a vote. If members agree that the matter is procedural, a simple majority vote by a quorum of two-thirds will decide Israels status. If not, a two-thirds majority is required.

In the lead-up to Octobers meeting of foreign ministers, Israels opponents and supporters are lobbying for support. If states with bilateral relations with Israel openly oppose its status, others may follow suit if the issue is put to a secret ballot.

Having waited almost 20 years, AU accreditation would be a foreign policy triumph for Israel. Although African countries will continue to call for a political solution to the IsraeliPalestinian impasse, relations with the continent may strengthen despite the current uncertainties.

Beyond discussing whether Israel should be accredited, the AU Executive Council should reflect on how those that receive this status contribute to the continental bodys priorities. The PSC should be tasked with reviewing the role and impact of external partners in Africas efforts to achieve peace and security.

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Shewit Woldemichael, Researcher, Africa Peace and Security Governance, Institute for Security Studies (ISS), Addis Ababa

(This article draws from the ISS PSC Report. It was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).
More people have been abducted in Mali in the first eight months of 2021 than in any other year documented by the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED). The country has seen 935 incidents since 2017, including 318 since January this year, says the conflict monitoring organisation. United Nations figures broadly confirm this trend.

But while kidnappings are on the rise, they seem to go relatively unnoticed, despite intense media and international scrutiny of violence in the country. Although the problem is not new in Mali, the increase in frequency reflects the interests of those driving conflict. And while victims were mostly foreigners in the past, now Malians face the greatest risk.

Abductions are carried out for different reasons and by a variety of perpetrators. Unsurprisingly, many cases are attributed to jihadist groups (46.6 per cent between January 2012 and July 2021), according to ACLED. They use this tactic to isolate communities from the government and the outside world, and stifle any sign of local resistance. Hostages are also used as leverage to bargain with the authorities.

Militias and community self-defence groups are also responsible for kidnappings (17.6 per cent of cases over the same period). This is sometimes in retaliation against those they suspect of being involved in violence against a particular community.

A total of 33.1 per cent of all kidnappings are committed by unidentified armed groups. This suggests that much better information is needed to accurately determine who is involved and what drives their actions.

According to ACLED, most incidents occur in areas heavily affected by other forms of violence, especially in rural central Mali, where the government has a limited presence (Figure 1). Attacks are common along road and river routes, making it even harder for those living far from urban centres to reach basic social services. These same people already endure poor road conditions and the threat of explosive devices along the way.

Source: ACLED, OCHA-HDX, SWAC-OECD & Natural Earth

Abduction trends in Mali have evolved over the years. From the early 2000s, the northern desert part of the country  which the central state has historically struggled to control  gained notoriety as a hide-out for captives. Foreign hostages taken from Mali or neighbouring countries were held there by jihadist groups waiting for ransom payments. The money helped fund violent insurrections, particularly the jihadist movement.

Paradoxically, the deteriorating security situation since 2012 has led to a decline in foreigner abductions, as embassies discourage travellers from visiting high-risk areas. Since the release of the former Malian opposition leader Soumaila Cisse along with three European captives in October 2020, some assumed hostage-taking was on the wane.

And yet the attacks persist. In April 2021, French journalist Olivier Dubois, who has lived in Mali for many years, was kidnapped in Gao. His abduction was a reminder of jihadists ransom strategy that provided an income stream and a way to reclaim fighters in prisoner exchanges in open defiance of the government.

In some cases, foreigners have been targeted as a result of power struggles within jihadist groups. Evidence pointed to this in the abductions of Colombian nun Gloria Cecilia Narvaez by Katiba Macina in 2017 and humanitarian worker Sophie Petronin by al-Qaeda affiliates in 2016. At the time, trophy hostages allowed kidnappers to position themselves within the hierarchy of the emerging coalition.

The epicentre of Malis kidnapping crisis has shifted in recent years from the north to the centre (Figure 2). Sixty-two per cent of abductions recorded by ACLED since 2017 have taken place in the central Mopti and Segou regions. This change mirrors the expansion of the security crisis since the Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation was signed. The deal provided a political framework to manage northern Malis conflict but failed to anticipate the deteriorating situation in the centre.

Source: ACLED

With this geographic shift, the profile of victims has also changed, with Malians being increasingly selected for attack. According to ACLED, 97 per cent of civilians abducted since 2012 are locals. This trend is particularly pronounced in the countrys central regions, and local humanitarian aid workers are among the most common targets.

Other primary victims include village chiefs, religious leaders and journalists, who are mainly singled out because of their influence over communities. Local administration officials, police and soldiers, and civil servants are also targeted to further weaken the central governments presence in some areas and secure ransom payments.

The international media rarely cover the kidnapping of locals. Some prominent cases, such as the abduction of the magistrate Soungalo Kone in 2017 by Katiba Macina, made national headlines. But the incidents occur so frequently that many go unnoticed both in Mali and beyond.

Given the scale of the problem, the narrative around the Malian crisis clearly needs to be revised. Better data is also vital. This would shed light on the hidden aspects of the conflict, such as kidnappings, and inform policy responses.

Lessons can also be learned from the countrys experience of managing hostage crises. Negotiations for the release of captives show the existence of communication channels that could be effectively used to engage in dialogue with insurgents.

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Over the years, the Malian public has repeatedly called for discussions with jihadist groups. This could be a way out of a crisis that cannot be resolved by military action alone. It is also essential that hostages who are rescued receive the psycho-social support they need to rebuild their lives.

Ornella Moderan, Head, Sahel Programme, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Bamako; Jose Luengo Cabrera, Data Analyst, Tenerife; and Boubacar Diallo, Journalist, Bamako

This article was produced with the support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands.

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).
As the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, bicker over rights to collect Value Added Tax, the former has made moves to legally own the right.

The FIRS, in a letter to the National Assembly, asked the legislature to include collection of VAT in the exclusive legislative list.

The letter, dated June 1, also seeks the parliaments approval of the establishment of the Federal Revenue Court of Nigeria.

This comes amidst moves by the Rivers State Government to stop the federal government from collecting VAT from the state.

Background

The FIRS has been in charge of VAT collection, which is then shared among the federal, state and local governments.

Rivers, Lagos and four other states are responsible for about 80 per cent of VAT collected in Nigeria.

A federal high court in Port Harcourt on August 10, ruled that it was the right of the Rivers government to receive VAT in the state  restraining the FIRS from collecting VAT and personal income tax in Rivers State.

The state had argued that it was against the constitution to generate VAT that is later shared to other states.

The FIRS also failed to obtain a stay of execution it sought to prevent the state government from enforcing the verdict. This is even as the agency appealed the ruling.

By this judgement, the Rivers State is cleared to enforce its newly passed VAT Act for now.

A similar bill just scaled second reading at the Lagos State assembly on Monday.

The letter

In a bid to override the Rivers State Government, the FIRS wrote to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase, to vest, exclusively, all adjudication of tax disputes, including federal tax laws, companies income tax, petroleum tax, income tax, capital gain tax, stamp duty, VAT, taxes, levies and other laws, regulations, proclamations, government notices and rules on it.

Mr Wase is the Chairman of the House Ad-hoc Committee on Constitution Review.

The letter is titled, Request for sponsorship of a bill for the establishment of the proposed Federal Revenue Court of Nigeria and the insertion of Value Added Tax under item 58 of the exclusive legislative list.

In the communication, the agency sought the amendment of Section 251 (1) (b) of the Constitution of the FRN 1999 (amended) to remove the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court only on anything connected or related to federal tax matters since the same would be vested on the proposed federal revenue court.

The Federal Inland Revenue Service also proposes for the insertion of value added tax immediately after Stamp Duties under item 58 part II of 2nd schedule of the 1999 Constitution of the FRN.

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The Federal Inland Revenue Service appreciates the maximum cooperation and support we are receiving from your good office on tax matters generally. This has boosted our morale and determination to do more for the government in tax revenue generation.

The FIRS therefore wishes to further request that the House of Representatives consider the request for the establishment of the Federal Revenue Court, part of the letter read.

The FIRS also noted that Item 59 of the Exclusive Legislative List Part 1, 2nd Schedule to the Constitution of the FRN 1999 as amended vests the powers to make laws on anything related to tax matters in Nigeria, on the National Assembly.

While the agency stated that the Federal Revenue Court was established by the promulgation of the Federal Revenue Court Decree No.13 1973 and later renamed to Federal High Court, it said the amended Section 7 of the Federal High Court Act (1991), conferred exclusive jurisdiction on the Federal High Court in relation to tax matters amongst others.

Section 228(1) and 230(1) was further re-enacted as Section 251(1) (a) to (s), of the Constitution of FRN 1999.

The FIRS hereby proposes for the insertion of Section 254(G) to 254 (L) in the 1999 Constitution of the FRN to provide for the establishment of Federal Revenue Court, the appointment of Chief Judge, power to make rules for the proceedings, the appointment of judges of FRC and the exclusive jurisdiction of FRC on federal tax matters.

FIRS denies

But in a turn of events, the FIRS has feigned ignorance over the letter or its attempt to include collection of VAT in the exclusive legislative list.

The Group Lead, Special Tax Operation Group of the FIRS, Matthew Gbonjubola, in a press briefing on Wednesday, said the FIRS was unaware of the existence of such bill as it was not being sponsored by the organisation, ICIR reports.

I am not aware that FIRS has presented any bill to the National Assembly to request for any social media tax and I can tell you, on behalf of my Executive Chairman, very clearly that this is not from us. So, if there is any such bill at the National Assembly, the FIRS is not the sponsor and we have not seen it, he said.

Wike talks tough

Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State on his part, has vowed not to relent in the fight.

The governor on Wednesday, insisted that the state will go ahead to enforce the provisions of the VAT Act.

While he insisted that Rivers money is not meant for Abuja people but for the development of his state, he threatened to shut down FIRS offices in the state should the bullying continue.

He made this statement at a meeting of concerned parties on Wednesday, in Port Harcourt while addressing Shell Petroleum Development Company and other representatives of oil companies and business owners in the state.

The event was televised live on Channels TV.

Mr Wike called for an end to what he described as the injustice in the country.

Rivers State generated N15bn in June 2021 but got N4.7bn while Kano produced N2.8bn in June but Kano also got N2.8bn. Sometimes you dont want to believe these things exist.

I cannot continue to beg the federal government for what belongs to his state.

People say that let heaven not fall but sometimes I believe that heaven should come down so that everybody will restWhen we do the right thing, heaven is at peace. So, the right thing must be done at all times, he said.

It is not clear whether the National Assembly will oblige the request of the FIRS as the lawmakers are currently on recess and expected to resume plenary next Tuesday.
The Nigeria Police has announced that its officers of the Intelligence Response Unit have arrested eight suspects who allegedly kidnapped and murdered 92-year-old Dariye Dafwan, father of a former Governor of Plateau State, Joshua Dariye.

In a statement signed by its spokesperson, Frank Mba, and sent to PREMIUM TIMES, the police said the arrest was made following investigation of the killing of the nonagenarian.

Mr Mba, while parading the suspects in presence of some journalists on Wednesday, explained that Mr Dafwan Dariye, whose son was a two-term governor, was held incommunicado for about eight days under unsanitary conditions.

He said after a protracted negotiation, a ransom of N10 million was paid to the kidnappers and rather than setting him free, he was murdered.

Mr Mba said the incident happened in June 2020, adding that the police investigation began immediately after recovery of the victims body whose son is currently serving a jail term in Kuje correctional facility over corruption.

The police spokesperson also noted that most of the kidnappers were indigenes of Bokkos, where Mr Dariye was kidnapped

This crime is laced with wickedness. He was kept and treated in a manner that was unbefitting of his status and age, the police statement said.

After a protracted negotiation, a ransom of 10 million Naira was paid to these kidnappers.

Rather than let the innocent old man go home, the kidnappers, in addition to the trauma they made Pa Dariye to go through, in addition to the extortion of N10 million that they had successfully executed, they went on to murder Pa Dariye in cold blood.

Within the last 30 days, the police were able to make tremendous progress that led to the arrest of the eight key suspects that played major roles in the kidnap and murder of the ex-governors father.

All the suspects, except very few of them, were from the same village in Bokkos Local Government Area with the murdered victim. This perhaps explained why they took the very wicked and costly decision of murdering the old man.

Read full statement released by the police after parading the suspects:

PRESS RELEASE

POLICE ARREST KILLERS OF 93YRS PATRIARCH OF FORMER PLATEAU GOVERNOR, DARIYE

 NAB 2 OTHERS FOR VIRTUAL KIDNAPPING, RECOVER 1 AK49 RIFLE, 26 AK47 MAGAZINE

Operatives of the Intelligence Response Unit of the Nigeria Police Force have arrested eight (8) notorious high-profile kidnapping suspects indicted in Police investigations for the abduction and eventual murder of Pa Dariye Dafwan, the late father of former Governor of Plateau State, in Horop community, Bokkos LGA of Plateau State. Pa Dariye was abducted on 17th June, 2020 and shot dead eight (8) days after the criminals (had) collected a ransom of ten (10) million naira from the family of the deceased. The arrest of the suspects follows unrelenting efforts by the Police to ensure perpetrators of the dastardly act are arrested and made to face the wrath of the law.

The breakthrough that led to the arrest of the suspects began with the arrest of one Abubakar Mohammed a.k.a Buba m 23yrs, native of Gada Biyu in Daffo district, Bokkos LGA, Plateau State. Buba is one of the principal suspects in the kidnap operation.

The confession of the suspect, which revealed how they abducted and murdered the nonagenarian, assisted the Police team in apprehending seven (7) other members of the gang  Yau Saidu aka Yau Kaban m 40yrs, from Kaban Village, Bokkos LGA, Plateau State, Titus Ezekiel 34yrs from from Horop, Bokkos LGA, Dauda Isah m 30yrs, from Horop, Sunday Ibrahim m 35yrs, Mushere tribe from Horop, Mangut Shumwar m 30yrs, from Horop, Henry Amos m 35yrs native of Horop, and Jethro Ngusen m 57yrs, native of Horop.

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Investigations further revealed that it was Jethro Ngusen, the mastermind and convener of the gang, that instructed one of the gang members, Mangut Shumwar to kill Pa Dariye, because he feared that Pa Dariye might recognize the suspects since majority of them are from the same village with the deceased. Jethro was also identified as the one who took custody of the ransom and later shared the proceeds of the crime amongst the gang members.

Similarly, the Police team arrested one Sadiq Abubakar m 31yrs old from Kogi State and one Peter Moses m 25yrs old from Kaduna State who abducted a 22yr-old lady to a location in Suleja. The suspects held the young lady hostage, had repeated canal knowledge of the victim and extorted money from her parents as ransom before her release.

Investigations by the Police team show that the suspects, who are serial virtual kidnappers, usually meet their victims on social media platforms particularly, Facebook, and thereafter lure them to their criminal hideout before subjecting them to sexual molestation and further obtaining ransom from their families.

The Police operatives also intercepted three (3) suspects, Emmanuel Joel 42yrs, Ayuba Joel, 30yrs, Hassan Umar, 30yrs on 28th August, 2021, in possession of one AK49 rifle loaded with fourteen live ammunition and twenty-six (26) AK47 magazines, at a border town between Nasarawa and Taraba State.

Investigations by the Police team revealed that the suspects are criminal arms dealers who supply weapons to criminal elements in Nasarawa and Taraba States. Efforts are being intensified to arrest members of the gang currently at large.

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, psc (+), fdc, NPM has assured that the Force is committed to working with law abiding citizens to secure the nation and reduce crimes to the barest minimum in the country. He advised users of the social media to remain circumspect and protect themselves from cyber crooks masquerading as online friends.

All the suspects will be charged to court on completion of investigations.

CP FRANK MBA

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER

FORCE HEADQUARTERS

ABUJA

8th September, 2021
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President Mohammadu Buhari, under tight security, on Thursday visited Imo State, which is seen as the hub of the operation of the pro-Biafra group, IPOB, in Nigerias South-east.

The agitation for the independent republic of Biafra has led to killings and destruction in the South-east.

Mr Buhari, who is on a one-day working visit to to the state, commissioned projects executed by the Governor Hope Uzodinmas administration, spoke on the importance of security, as well as infrastructure, on the lives of the people.

If there are no roads, if there is no security, what can people do? Definitely nothing, Mr Buhari said in his brief address in Owerri, the state capital.

He praised Governor Uzodinma for his administrations effort to develop the state.

The president commissioned a polytechnic, a road project, a flood control tunnel and a new executive chamber,

Seeing is believing, the president said of the projects he saw in the state.

I accepted the invitation to come and see what the governor wanted me to see, and I have seen enough which certifies his integrity.

I am very impressed with what he has done because I have gone through the same problem at the centre to make sure that infrastructure is what would enable the people to man their own businesses. I am very pleased with what I have seen, Mr Buhari said.

Apart from Governor Uzodinma, Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, and the candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra, Andy Uba, were among those who received President Buhari.

The president is expected to hold a town hall meeting with leaders of the five states in the South-east geopolitical zone before departing for Abuja later today.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has urged the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to take proactive steps aimed at preventing coups in the sub-region.

According to a statement by Mr Osinbajos spokesperson, Laolu Akande, the vice president said this on Wednesday at a virtual Extraordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of ECOWAS member-states, where he represented President Muhammadu Buhari.

Mr Buhari said the unconstitutional seizure of power in any shape or form is simply unacceptable and has no place in the 21st century.

The meeting revolved around the political developments in the republics of Guinea and Mali where juntas have taken over power.

The meeting, attended by 10 of the ECOWAS leaders and representatives from the United Nations, was convened after Guinean President Alpha Conde was ousted via a coup detat in the West African country on September 5.

This culminated in his arrest and detention by the countrys military, the dissolution of the Guinean government, suspension of the countrys constitution.

Mr Buhari joined other global leaders in condemning the coup in Guinea, saying: I join all well-meaning global leaders to express, in the strongest terms, the condemnation of the government of Nigeria of this unconstitutional change of government, a development that could seriously destabilise the Republic of Guinea.

What happened in Guinea is a brazen disregard for the provisions of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, which clearly states that every accession to power must be made through free, fair, and transparent election.

The unconstitutional seizure of power in any shape or form is simply unacceptable  four coups within the past few months is a dangerous trend indeed.

Mr Buhari presented an idea which the Chairman of ECOWAS and President of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo later described as a proposal of great weight.

According to the Nigerian leader, the region is sliding back to the infamous 1960s.

He said, Our zero-tolerance for coups is important but clearly insufficient. Are there further steps that we can take to prevent coups?

Could we, for example, work out an understanding with the UN, AU, the Commonwealth, and possibly, even the development finance institutions we are a part of, to act in unison to suspend a country where there has been a seizure of power from all these bodies simultaneously?

Mr Buhari said it was important for countries in the sub-region to respect the provisions against the unconstitutional accession to power and apply it in all instances.

He, therefore, called on the ECOWAS authority of heads of state and government to invoke the provisions of Article 45 of the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance immediately by suspending Guinea from all of the blocs decision-making bodies and statutory meetings.

We should also take any other necessary punitive measures that will ensure that the junta does not overstay in power.

We must forestall a repeat of military interventions.

Mr Buhari listed other steps to be taken in finding a lasting solution to the unfortunate development in Guinea.

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He said that the military junta should not only ensure the physical safety of Mr Conde and all those detained along with him but also ensure his immediate and unconditional release.

The safety of lives and property of the people of Guinea must also be guaranteed.

The military must draw up a timetable for a civilian-led transition and begin the process of exiting the Guinean political stage toward returning the country to constitutional order and civil rule, the Nigerian leader said.

On the situation in Mali, Mr Buhari commended former President Goodluck Jonathan for his continued commitment and engagement with the various stakeholders in Mali.

Let me reiterate the imperative for the Malian transitional government to strictly respect the electoral timetable unveiled on April 15.

I further call for the continued support and collaboration of all the major players in the countrys march towards a successful transition.

Nigeria will continue to closely monitor the situations in Guinea and Mali as well as work with the ECOWAS Commission, the African Union, and other member states to facilitate the return of both countries to civil governance, he said.

Mr Buhari also commended the chairman of the ECOWAS authority of heads of state and government for convening the virtual summit.
The government of Kaduna State, North-west Nigeria, on Thursday , released a new resumption schedule for its schools after months of disruption in the school calendar due to violent attacks by bandits in the state.

The states commissioner for education, Shehu Makarfi, disclosed this while taking part in a virtual workshop organised by the Education Writers Association of Nigeria.

The workshop, which is organised as part of the activities to mark the second anniversary of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, was themed; Consequences of Violent Attacks on Education in Nigeria.

New timetable

According to Mr Makarfi, students of the state are expected to resume on Sunday, September 12, 2021.

However, the commissioner said rather than resume for the third term that has been aborted in the state, the schools will resume the first term for the 2021/2022 academic calendar.

He added that the state has worked out strategies towards ensuring the completion of the third term through online platforms.

He said the resumption will be in phases, and that the whole students will resume within three weeks.

He said: As I speak with you now, we have just released our timetable for resumption for learning in our schools. The first term will resume on September 12, and they will be in school until December 16. They have 14 weeks within which they will be dealing with a lot of lessons they have missed. They will have a holiday from the 16th December 2021 to 6th January 2022.

Second term will resume from Sunday January 9, 2022 to April 8, 2022 and they will have a holiday from 9th April till May 1, when the third term will resume.

Mr Makarfi added that experiences from other states have taught them how to prevent further attacks in the schools, noting that while the schools were closed down officially but learning had continued unofficially.

He added: Some of the schools are operating because we felt that if we continue to announce what we have done, the kidnappers and bandits are also listening, and following. So students are going about their learning in areas that we consider safe without uniform and we give the principals and teachers the privilege to change the time of reporting and close when appropriate.

We are opening in phases; the SS1 and SS2 students from five local government areas which are affected by the crisis, will be moved to some boarding schools which we have arranged. The JSS students will also be moved to these boarding schools. We will make sure that they are all absorbed because they are few.

UNICEF, WSCIJ speak

Meanwhile, in their separate contributions to the theme of the workshop, the officer-in-charge of the Maiduguri chief of field office for the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), Samuel Sessay, and the executive director of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), Motunrayo Alaka, highlighted the dangerous consequences of violent attacks on schools.

Mr Sessay listed the rising number of out-of-school children, poorer health for citizens, rising cases of early marriages and unwanted pregnancies, and increase in infant and maternal mortality, among others, as part of the consequences of the attacks on schools.

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Between 2009 and 2020, a total of 1,400 schools were damaged, more than 1 million children forced out of school, 2,295 teachers killed with annual dropout rate for children in the North-east highest in Nigeria, he said.

He said UNICEF encourages Nigeria to engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders in the education sector for repositioning.

On her part, Mrs Alaka charged journalists to focus more on quality reporting of the nations education sector.

She said the organisations five-year Regulatory Monitoring Project (REMOP) on education, has shown that poor attention is given by the media to the basic education subsector.

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She said journalists need thorough impact-driven reports in the sector to achieve impacts.

Collaboration

In his brief remark during the workshop, the chairman of the Education Writers Association of Nigeria (EWAN), organisers of the event, Mojeed Alabi, said the association would work with relevant stakeholders in the sector to reclaim its lost glory.

Mr Alabi said the International Day to Protect Education from Attack is significant for the country, considering the new development of violent attacks on schools and educators.

EWAN is committed to reclaiming the lost glory in the education sector in Nigeria through accurate, balanced and investigative reporting aimed at exposing the ills and advocating necessary change for national development, he said.

Meanwhile, the end of the workshop coincided with the associations inaugural congress after its recent election conducted for some vacant positions.

At the end of the poll, Tayo Olorunyomi of Eko FM and Radio Lagos was elected unopposed as the Treasurer while Elizabeth Osayande of Vanguard Newspapers emerged the new assistant secretary. Oyeniran Apata of the Daily Independent Newspapers was elected the internal auditor for the association, while Funmilayo Ogundare of ThisDay Newspaper was nominated as the welfare secretary.
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Israeli troops have arrested family members of several Palestinian fugitives during overnight raids in the northern West Bank, Times of Israel reports, as the massive manhunt continued for six escaped prisoners.

The Times quotes Palestinian prisoner support and human rights association as saying on Wednesday that at least seven family members of the escapees were detained by Israeli soldiers throughout the occupied West Bank, though some were held only briefly.

Among those reportedly arrested were relatives of Mahmoud and Mohammed Al-Arida in the town of Arraba, Palestine, the newspaper said.

The brothers are members of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror group who were serving life sentences when they and four others escaped from Gilboa prison early Monday in what is considered to be among the most serious jailbreaks in the countrys history.

On Monday, six Palestinian prisoners broke out of a high-security prison in Northern Israel. They reportedly escaped through a tunnel and appeared to have received some outside help.

Israeli troops are searching for the Palestinians with Prime Minister Naftali Bennett ordering an across-the-board effort by the security forces to find the escapees.

Frustrated by their inability to track down the six escapees, BBC reports the Israeli authorities have already stopped Islamic Jihad prisoners from associating with each other and taken other punitive measures.

Meanwhile, the Islamic Jihad has warned that any retaliatory actions against its fighters would elicit a harsh response. It also warned that the injury or death of the escapees would lead to military retaliation.
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Putting a lid on this or inaccurately describing it smirks of a disavowal of a core obligation of public and academic intellection on one hand, and a betrayal of the people trapped in such territories, especially in northern Nigeria, on the other hand. I posit that ignoring or lidding the emergence of Nigerias type two terrorism or the next level of terrorism portrays public intellectuals asfalling short of their obligations.

That Nigeria is fast becoming unsecurable, that is, reaching a state where everything done to secure it fails. This is evident and accompanied by the populaces loss of a sense of security, which is informed by lived realities from Imeko to Jibia, Otukpo to Yenagoa. As a local, studious of the locale of insecurity in Nigeria, I am presently wearing the cap of the public intellectual whose critical task is to bear witness, analyse, expose and criticize a wide range of social evil(s) that have turned the landscape of the country into deathscapes, as instructively put by Jean-Paul Sartre, and as someone at home with Nigerias hip-hop music, I am asking: What can fa! That is, what can be responsible for this type of differentiation? Based on todays Nigeria, insecurity is an evil and indeed the evil manifesting and experienced differently across the country.

While communal violence, opportunistic abductions and kidnappings, and forced disappearances are no longer news in most of the South, northern Nigeria remains the epicentre of Nigerias war against terrorism, which has been kneeling on her neck for over a decade. In both settings, William Zartmans mutually hurting stalemate or Achille Mbembe mutual zombification subsists, because neither the government nor the outlaws have been able to cancel out each other.

My immediate point of departure is the seeming inexcusable description and near celebration of a mutation in insurgency as a lesser evil owing to the mojo of the current government. They say, the incumbent government has made progress in terms of security because after all, the Boko Haram no longer controls territories or that most of the territories hitherto controlled by the Boko Haram have been reclaimed. Similarly, there is a popular obfuscation or self-denial, whereby zones of mixed or illicit governance with existing structures of governance, effective tax systems and even policing headed by outlaws with working succession plans are called ungoverned spaces. If governance means exercising control and conducting the conduct of others, I posit that there are no ungoverned spaces in Nigeria, but spaces governed by outlaws where the constitutionally constituted government does not have the capacity to reach or have been sacked. Indeed, if governance is about exerting control and eliciting compliance, then these spaces are not ungoverned but governed by outlaws, while the protraction contention with the state further typifies either mutual zombification or a mutually hurting stalemate.

Nigerias unfolding security challenges offer intellectuals the opportunity for novel theorising and meaning-making, rather than using concepts not derived from our own lived realities just because they are used elsewhere. As diagnostics, security intellectuals or thinkers owe the securocrats/doers, a proper diagnosis for informed action

Putting a lid on this or inaccurately describing it smirks of a disavowal of a core obligation of public and academic intellection on one hand, and a betrayal of the people trapped in such territories, especially in northern Nigeria, on the other hand. I posit that ignoring or lidding the emergence of Nigerias type two terrorism or the next level of terrorism based on the nexus and continuum between insurgency and the current round of criminality, even after reports emerged that an alliance was emerging between a splinter of the Islamists in the North-East and the outlaws terrorising the North-West, portrays public intellectuals as hype-men and falling short of their obligations. Also, it challenges intellectuals to disaggregate, rather than using one lens to look at the outlaws.

So, what blurs the difference between those described as bandits and insurgents? In answering, one turns to the late thinker-intellectual, Dr Jimanze Ego-Alowess work The University-Media Complex As Nigerias Foremost Amusement Chain wherein he underscored intellectuals haste to consume already harvested yams in the barn, instead of producing and harvesting new yams of knowledge. Therefore, Nigerias unfolding security challenges offer intellectuals the opportunity for novel theorising and meaning-making, rather than using concepts not derived from our own lived realities just because they are used elsewhere. As diagnostics, security intellectuals or thinkers owe the securocrats/doers, a proper diagnosis for informed action, bearing in mind that all conclusions are tentative.

Doing this entails an acceptance of the shifting nature, similarities, and mutability of the focus of insurgents. For instance, at a point, the Boko Haram pledged allegiance to the Islamic State in 2015 to become the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP), then in 2016 there was a renunciation and readoption of the name Boko Haram by late Shekau, with ISWAP under the leadership of Al-Barnawi. As alliances change, the choice of targets and ambitions also change. In a widely circulated video on June 15, 2020, a quartet was seen speaking in English, Hausa, Fulfulde and French, conveying an appeal to imagined counterparts in Zamfara and Niger States, to strive harder in the cause of Allah thus, My brothers in Lake Chad, my brothers in Cameroon, my brothers in Sambisa, my brothers in Niger State, my brothers in Zamfara State; I urge us and encourage us to strive harder for the sake of Allah.

If the intent of terror is to instill fear using violence towards a specific end, and an alliance was allegedly initiated between the outlaws in the North-East and in the North-West, terrorism has therefore become an instrument used by the two, as seen in their targets. Do they have a common objective? I say yes in the immediate

Since then, one could see an increase in the monstrosity and bestiality that have characterised the operations of the outlaws as they go after both hard and soft targets, like downing military aircrafts and attacking Quranic schools, to abduct without distinctions between pre-teens and adults. In March, a similar report from another respectable source pointed in the same direction. If Jamaat Ahl as-Sunna Liddawah wal-Jihad (JAS) aka Boko Haram, is notorious for being against secular education and now both secular and Quranic schools are being attacked in Zamfara, Niger, Kebbi, Kaduna, then why are we taking some outlaws as bandits and some as insurgents? With no distinction between spaces of learning that are owned by the government or individuals, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), downing of aircrafts, abductions of relatives of political notables, which were the initial trademarks of Boko Haram from 2010 to 2013, where is now the difference between the so-called bandits and insurgents in 2021?

If the intent of terror is to instill fear using violence towards a specific end, and an alliance was allegedly initiated between the outlaws in the North-East and in the North-West, terrorism has therefore become an instrument used by the two, as seen in their targets. Do they have a common objective? I say yes in the immediate, because for now democracy, the Nigerian state and her peoples are their common enemies.

As such, as it is logical to aim at a bird based on its flight and cognisant of the shift that has occurred based on the alliances of these outlaws, their choice of targets and modus operandi, it behooves intellectuals (thinkers) to keep up with this and designate both appropriately, so that the securocrats (doers) at all levels will tailor their responses adequately, while we stop treating leprosy as eczema.

Gbemisola Animasawun is a Reader in the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, University of Ilorin.
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The CEPTi was brought about to engender social accountability, the mechanisms of which were initiated by the ICPC with the collaboration and support of citizens, especially the civil society organisations (CSOs). Social accountability is an ongoing and collective effort to hold public officials to account for the provision of public goods, such as primary healthcare, education, sanitation and the provision of social amenities

The lack of accountability and transparency is a recipe for corruption in any system. Corruption and its ravaging effects have made resources for development almost non-existent over time. In order to stem pervasive corruption and ensure that resources and positions of authority are not misused, government created anti-corruption agencies with wide investigative powers, to not only prosecute those found culpable of corruption, but to also come up with preventive policies and programmes that promote accountability in governance.

Of the major pillars that define the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), for instance, are its enforcement, prevention and public enlightenment, and mobilisation mandates, as provided for in S.6 of the Act establishing the Commission.

In executing these mandates towards ensuring accountability in governance, the Commission came up with several initiatives, which are initiated and executed in collaboration with other stake holders. The most critical of these are Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking Initiative (CEPTi), Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA), National Values Curriculum, Ethics and Compliance Scorecard, System Study and Review, and the Town Hall meetings, amongst others.

It is imperative to situate the main theme of collaboration, investigations and accountability. The ICPC undertakes a unique kind of investigation, aimed primarily at ensuring accountability in public and private lives, and usually initiated by the public.

At the end of its investigation, the Commission would either recommend prosecution, where there is a manifest infraction of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, or any other law prohibiting corruption in any guise, such as the Public Procurement Act, Federal Character Act or even the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.

The Commission has, within the past two years, ensured that constituency projects are not only tracked and monitored to ensure their execution and attainment of value for money, but communities where these projects are sited take ownership of such projects and ensure the continuity and sustainability of the projects.

As a preventive measure towards ensuring accountability in governance, the Commission undertakes System Study and Review, which is a holistic approach that looks at certain components of an organisations structure and operations, aimed at removing vulnerabilities to corruption.

In like manner, the Corruption Risk Assessment also examines vulnerabilities and the possibilities of corruption happening in an organisation, with a view to deploying measures to mitigate such vulnerabilities. In the Ports sector, for example, several mitigation plans were embedded, such that the hitherto over 143 checks or signatures needed on documents before the release of cargoes, have been drastically reduced to not more than ten signatures, thereby freeing the sector of the usual bottlenecks and making the ports more competitive.

Another accountability tool employed by the Commission is the Ethics and Compliance Scorecard. Like the Systems Study Review and the Corruption Risk Assessment, this uses certain indicators to assess the level of adherence to business ethics and compliance with set standards in the ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) of government. This is complementary to the Anti-Corruption Transparency Units (ACTU). The Ethics and Compliance Scorecard is also a measurement tool for gauging the effectiveness or otherwise of ACTUs in MDAs.

A practical demonstration of collaboration among critical stakeholders deployed in investigations towards ensuring accountability by the Commission is the Constituency and Executive Projects Tracking initiative (CEPTi). The state and non-state actors brought together by ICPC for the execution of this initiative have included the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (OAuGF), Bank of Finance (BoF), Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism (PTCIJ), BudgIT, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), the media, NGOs and CBOs.

The Commission has, within the past two years, ensured that constituency projects are not only tracked and monitored to ensure their execution and attainment of value for money, but communities where these projects are sited take ownership of such projects and ensure the continuity and sustainability of the projects. The initiative ensures collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure accountability and transparency in the conception, execution and management of public funded projects.

From experience, and as outcomes of ICPCs tracking exercise, it is clear that social accountability improves the quality of governance, contributes to increased development, alongside increases in the effectiveness of service delivery, and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Beyond recoveries of huge sums of money and assets, as well as prosecutions in appropriate cases, the most important impact of this initiative is that hundreds of runaway contractors were compelled to return to sites to complete hitherto abandoned projects.

The CEPTi was brought about to engender social accountability, the mechanisms of which were initiated by the ICPC with the collaboration and support of citizens, especially the civil society organisations (CSOs). Social accountability is an ongoing and collective effort to hold public officials to account for the provision of public goods, such as primary healthcare, education, sanitation and the provision of social amenities, among others.

From experience, and as outcomes of ICPCs tracking exercise, it is clear that social accountability improves the quality of governance, contributes to increased development, alongside increases in the effectiveness of service delivery, and the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Due to the fact that the Commission, being a public institution, does not have enough resources to finance all its activities, including certain collaborations, it is therefore imperative on all stakeholders, big and small, to find means to forge strong collaborations in the fight against corruption.

In rounding off, as society gets more sophisticated, so does crime, particularly economic crimes and corruption, which are becoming more convoluted and complex. While we must continue to deploy every investigative tool at our disposal to ensure transparency and accountability in the governance process, collaborative efforts must also be engendered to sustain social accountability and transparency in governance.

Bolaji Owasanoye (SAN), is the Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
Ambode, Donald Duke and their likes must not give up in their quest to contribute to the betterment of our society. They should not wait to be begged to re-enter the political terrain. It is their duty to use their privileged position to work for the greater good of society.

Is the former Lagos State governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode, in Nigeria? If he is, what is he up to? He has been pretty quiet for some time now, since 2019, making it look as if he has run out of gas. For more than two years, the man has been under the radar. He became a one-term governor by virtue of the peculiar machinations of Nigerian politics.

Before he took his exit from the stage, he was a star of sorts among his contemporaries. He was the governor of Lagos, about the richest State by more than a mile in Nigeria. In addition to the ever-growing internal revenue base, Lagos boasts of the most dynamic human capital in the country. The private sector is truly the engine room of development in the State. Successive governments since the Tinubu administration in 1999 have had the good fortune of selecting the very best and brightest to run the State. Not something we can say for many of the other States in the federation, where mediocrity and nepotism are the cardinal elements of state policy.

Before Ambode went down the political tube, President Muhammadu Buhari and Ambodes fellow governors had tried all their political and diplomatic skills to save him, but they didnt succeed. I remember the several delegations that went to see the Jagaban to forgive his protege of his sins, but it all came to naught. Many reasons have been adduced for why things fell apart between the godfather and his political godson. Bottom line: All politics is local.

Ambode was generally considered a successful governor during his tenure, yet he was unable to secure a second term. Some of his contemporaries who were poor in performance easily got their parties nominations and won re-election. Several factors have been attributed to this. One, the current godfather of Lagos politics was not happy with him. Two, his party men and women were not impressed with how miserly he doled out largesse to oil the political machinery in the State. Three, he wasnt a natural politician and didnt understand the meaning of the word COMPROMISE. Four, he had an arrogant bent. And in politics, humility, even if it is a forced one, is considered a virtue.

In Nigeria, politics is essentially a zero-sum game. You win, you are on top; you lose, you are crushed. You are interred even before doctors certify that you are truly dead. The environment is worse than a crocodile infested pool. There is no attempt to harness your redeeming features for the common good. The people can do without your good qualities and you can go to waste. Thank you.

In Ayisha Osoris book, Love Does not win elections, she lays bare the time-worn reality that your good deeds may not be enough to move you forward in life, especially in Nigerian politics. I think that is one of the lessons that people like Ambode and others have learnt painfully.

But we cannot attain any meaningful development as a people when we see politics as an art of war; where those who have temporary advantage cannot see the good in others. The country belongs to all of us and those in control of the commanding heights must realise at all times that it is a sacred duty on their part to harness the best in all of us to make for a better society.

As governor, Ambode was no saint. He made his fair share of detractors and enemies. One visible group of enemies were those involved in refuse collection, otherwise known as players in the Private Sector Participation (PSP). They were blindsided by the government and they waited and took revenge in a spectacular way.

Ambode also refused to continue with some of the legacy projects of his predecessor, Babatunde Fashola. One glaring example was the rail project from Ijanikin to CMS. That laudable project was abandoned for four years without any apparent justification.

But the former governor had many things going for him. He tried to modernise the system of governance in many respects. Even the processes of paying taxes were made more friendly during his tenure. The International Airport Road is a thing of joy to all those who pass through it now. That road was allowed to rot for decades, becoming an eye-sore to the civilised. Neglected, as usual, by the Federal Government, Ambode turned the story around.

He must also take credit for the beauty that the Oshodi concourse has become. The massive road network he constructed in the Alimosho axis of the State will be difficult to surpass. He constructed some signature bridges like those of Alagbado, Ajah and began that of Pen Cinema in Agege. The whole of Epe was transformed by the massive road network he built in that senatorial division.

True, that is his primary constituency. But nobody can begrudge that part of Lagos State the facelift it received during his tenure. The place had been ignored for so long. It was no wonder that the Epe people came out to chase away some law enforcement people who came to search his abode some time ago. It is an appreciation of what the man had done for them.

At no other time than now does Nigeria needs all hands to be on deck to pull us from the brink that we are all starring at. The Nigerian narrative is bleak and it must be changed. Otherwise, we will all suffer the consequences of a failed state.

One of the tragedies of the Nigerian enterprise is the elite recruitment process or the lack thereof. It is an all-comers affair. It is completely devoid of ideological convictions. Minimum intellectual endowment does not stand you in good stead. Morality is absent. Greed, small-mindedness and self-interest are the governing principles. As a result, we live in a society of BIG MEN in a SMALL STATE. Our security architecture is an embarrassment. The infrastructural deficit is scandalous. We are handing over a disgraceful state to our children. And this is not fair.

The gladiators expend so much of their energies pursuing personal vendetta and primitive accumulation that they do not have time to conceptualise how the country should be in a few years. On top of that, they do not give a damn.

The basic functions of a state, such as providing for and promoting the security and welfare of the people is almost a mirage.

Ambode, Donald Duke and their likes must not give up in their quest to contribute to the betterment of our society. They should not wait to be begged to re-enter the political terrain. It is their duty to use their privileged position to work for the greater good of society.

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It is surely one way to guarantee a better future for our children and the unborn generations,

Fred Ohwahwa, a former Editor of The Guardian on Sunday, wrote from Abuja.
After watching Chad and Mali fall without consequence, soldiers in Guinea are obviously tempted to ask themselves, why not? Before this hubris takes root, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) must go beyond tepid statements. They must demand the immediate and unconditional restoration of President Conde, and lay down the consequences of non-compliance.

Zambias peaceful and orderly election in August offered a glimmer of hope that Africas story might be changing.

For the third time in three decades, an opposition leader defeated the sitting president, sending a message to the world that the continent may not be the incumbents lair after all.

Opposition leader, Hakainde Hichilema, didnt just win; the incumbent, Edgar Lungu, accepted defeat and congratulated the winner.

But hopes that Zambias election could be a turning point have since dissipated, as soldiers in the West African country of Guinea overthrew the civilian government, while the continent was still savouring its Zambian moment.

Eighty-three-year-old Guinean president, Alpha Conde, who wangled himself in place for a third presidential term in 2020, was kicked out of office, sparking images of deja vu, in what would be the fourth military strike  three of them successful  on the continent in six months.

Was the violent and catastrophic fall of Conde inevitable?

Ive heard the argument that Conde didnt have to go; that his country needed him more than he needed the country, and that the crooked referendum by which he gave himself an extra 10 years was for the good of Guinea.

In an article published last October and entitled, Why Guinea still needs Conde, Nigerian journalist, Aniebo Nwamu, said, with a hint of satire, Having elections every four years is a Western tradition. Its expensive  and it achieves little for us in Africa. Only when an incumbent underperforms should we have cause to seek their replacement.

Well, Conde is what you get for the mistaken belief that politics can produce messiahs. The veteran leader of the opposition, who proclaimed himself Guineas Mandela, couldnt overcome the temptation to match Paul Biyas disgraceful record in self-perpetuation.

It is precisely because politics is inherently incapable of producing messiahs that term limits are needed to save the system from abuse, encourage competition and accountability, and potentially inspire a new generation of leaders with new ideas.

Sure, if Conde had served out his additional two terms of 10 years, bringing his total to 20, and later stepped down at 93 years of age, with his juices still flowing, he would still not have outdone his predecessors, Ahmed Sekou Toure, who ruled for 26 years; or Lansana Conte, who ruled for 24.

And that is part of the reason that Guinea is where it is today. The country, like its cousins across much of Africa, has had the misfortune of leaders who take their countries for a ride. They tell themselves that they are performing well, and that they are also indispensable. Why waste time and public resources to test performance through the periodic ballot, when even the blind ought to see the benefits of the indispensable leader?

Events in Niger, Chad, Mali and, now, Guinea, are particularly troubling, not only because of their contiguity, but also because all four are Francophone. There are nine Francophone countries in West Africa and the four troubled ones make up 17 per cent of the regions population of 441 million.

The result, unfortunately, is what happened in Guinea on Sunday. Not that any of what the apparent coup leader, Mamadi Doumbouya, said to justify the coup makes sense.

It doesnt. It was an insult for him to speak as if soldiers have a monopoly of patriotism; that they are the Salvation Army unspoiled by endemic elite corruption and are just waiting to save the country and hand it over to the long suffering citizens. Nonsense.

Africa has been here before, ruled by military strongmen with the God complex. And the continent still carries the scars of the abuse of power and millions of lives lost to instability, and conflicts often rooted in violent and disorderly transfers of power caused by military dictatorships.

At the nadir of its infamy, a Nigerian military chief, General Salihu Ibrahim, regretted that the army that was supposed to be on a rescue mission had lost its way after 26 years in power and become a part of the problem.

In his words, it had also become an army of anything goes. At the time, civilians had been in charge for only seven out of 33 years of Nigerias independence. Soldiers, who were in charge for the rest of the period had become the piston of the engine elaborately documented in Tom Burgis book, The Looting Machine.

Guinea wasnt different. And the claim of its new military leaders to sainthood is an insult that suggests that the coup leaders are in denial of their countrys history. From Lansana Conte to Moussa Dadis Camara, who were both soldiers, The Looting Machine documents monumental fraud in Guinean iron ore contracts, up and down the corridors of power, reaching to the innermost circles of the military elites family members and merrily perpetrated with their active support and connivance.

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Events in Niger, Chad, Mali and, now, Guinea, are particularly troubling, not only because of their contiguity, but also because all four are Francophone. There are nine Francophone countries in West Africa and the four troubled ones make up 17 per cent of the regions population of 441 million.

Paris has, of course, maintained a curiously prudent silence since Sunday, letting the United Nations (UN) do the difficult job of calling out the new military regime in Conakry. But French silence speaks louder than words.

The stifling grip of France over the economies of these countries, which virtually sucks the life out of them, has compounded the misery and vulnerability of a number of the Francophone countries.

There are other complications, of course. The collapse of Libya, for example, has aggravated the spread of arms in the Sahel and re-energised extremist tendencies among the Tuaregs and other jihadist groups in the region.

Climate change has complicated matters for the agrarian and herder populations in these areas, and on top of that, the COVID-19 pandemic sparked predictions of Armageddon. Its difficult to say what could be the most potent single factor in the adverse wind blowing across the Sahel.

When ECOWAS took a stand in The Gambia, Yahya Jammeh didnt need an interpreter to know there would be consequences if he refused to step down after losing the ballot. The soldiers in Guinea need a similar lesson, now before the string of coups become a cascade.

Yet, some swear that of all the possible reasons, the potential complicity of Paris, and the pushback by a few leaders in the area, fed up with being Frances puppets, could be the most significant factor.

Did Conde fall because of his countrys resistance to the incredibly lopsided CFA arrangement, a legacy of French colonial rule, which ties 50 per cent of the deposits of 14 Francophone countries to the French treasury at a fixed rate? What did the French military, which has a significant presence in the region, know about the coup in Mali? Did they look the other way during the palace coup in Chad?

Its hard to nail the last straw. However complicit outside influence may be in the recent turn of events, African leaders must take responsibility.

Its true that adverse conditions such as Ebola, destabilisation in the Sahel, reports of ex-servicemen joining non-state actors, and the COVID-19 pandemic affected the fortunes of Guinea and the subregion as a whole.

But the political elite, at the state and subregional levels, needs to show that it understands the nature of the threat and stop feeding the fire by its indifference, irresponsible conduct  or both. From Guinea to Mali and from Nigeria and Cameroon, the political elite has mismanaged, and even inflamed, ethnic tensions with their insensitivity.

Tolerance for press freedom is declining and opposition parties, where they are tolerated, are treated like the enemy. Even within the ruling parties, dissenting voices are sidelined and governance is often a privileged few talking to themselves.

Bad examples have become so widespread and inspirational leadership so scarce, that until recently former U.S. President Donald Trump seemed to be the new standard.

The slide must stop. And a good place to start would be for leaders in the subregion to take a hard, long look at themselves and begin to live up to the standards they promised their citizens.

After watching Chad and Mali fall without consequence, soldiers in Guinea are obviously tempted to ask themselves, why not?

Before this hubris takes root, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU) must go beyond tepid statements. They must demand the immediate and unconditional restoration of President Conde, and lay down the consequences of non-compliance.

That is the only language bullies understand  consequences. When ECOWAS took a stand in The Gambia, Yahya Jammeh didnt need an interpreter to know there would be consequences if he refused to step down after losing the ballot. The soldiers in Guinea need a similar lesson, now before the string of coups become a cascade.

Azu Ishiekwene is Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP.
The Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has described Saturdays local government elections in the state as a victory for democracy.

He also said the peaceful elections will foster unity in the volatile state.

Mr El-Rufai stated this in a broadcast on Tuesday.

Competitive elections

The governors party, the APC, won 15 of the 17 chairmanship seats whose results have so far been declared, while the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) won the other two.

The polls were postponed in four of the states 23 local government areas to September 25, over security concerns.

The governor, however, lost his polling unit of Unguwar Sarki in Kaduna North LGA to the opposition PDP.

But the APC also won in the home councils of top PDP chieftains, including former Vice President Namadi Sambo and former Governor Ahmed Makarfi.

Below is the full text of the governors broadcast.

With utmost humility, I wish to express profound gratitude to the people of Kaduna State for the largely peaceful and orderly conduct of the local government elections of 4th September 2021.

On behalf of the Kaduna State Government, I pay tribute to the residents of our state for their maturity and sophistication in exercising their democratic right to freely choose their leaders at the local level.

As Governor of Kaduna State, I have always taken the view that we all win when democracy triumphs. We congratulate all the winners in the local government elections and challenge them to use their period in office to serve the people, uphold democratic tenets and promote peace in our state. These local government elections have demonstrated that the APC government of Kaduna State stands resolutely for free and fair elections. We have placed the credibility and integrity of the electoral process above the discredited practice of previous governments that sought to win every contested seat by all means

I commend the people of Kaduna State for showing, for the second time, that there is no obstacle to the successful adoption of electronic voting technology in Nigeria. In 2021, the people of Kaduna State have repeated the conclusive argument first made in 2018 for our country as a whole to fully automate the voting process.

Voters in Kaduna State first made history on 12th May 2018 when they cast their ballots on electronic voting machines to elect chairmen and councillors for the 23 local government councils in our state. It is the participation of our people that has placed Kaduna State as the first in Nigeria to use electronic voting, the first subnational in Africa to do so and has also positioned Nigeria as only the second country in Africa after Namibia to use the technology.

The local government elections of 4th September 2021 further validate the Kaduna State Governments decision to invest in Electronic Voting Machines to promote electoral integrity and transparency. Kaduna State is proudly upholding a new chapter in elections in Nigeria, using electronic voting technology, championed by a government that is determined to respect the outcome, win or lose.

As an elected governor, I welcome the successful impact on deepening democracy of the policy decision we took to adopt electronic voting. It is our hope that elected leaders at the local level will use their democratic mandates to advance the reforms we have introduced in local government administration in the interest of our people.

As leader of the APC in Kaduna State, I wish to express fulsome gratitude to the people of Kaduna State for the support they gave our candidates during the local government elections. Our people again demonstrated with their votes that they recognise our efforts to empower them, to educate their children properly, to secure better healthcare for them and to return their priorities to the heart of government.

I am particularly pleased that our governance attainments and determined efforts to promote democracy are helping to further unity in our state. We welcome the results in the Kaduna South Senatorial District as a significant step in advancing political consensus in our state and overcoming division.

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We are most grateful to the people of the Kaduna South Senatorial District whose votes have helped expand the APCs footprint in the area. The voters have given the APC victory in four of the seven local government where elections were conducted in southern Kaduna.

In addition to retaining Sanga and Kagarko which we won in 2018, the APC has won in Jemaa and Kauru local government councils. The unprecedented victory in Jemaa augurs well for advancing unity and commitment to common endeavours in the interest of unity, peace and progress in our state. It is an embrace that we do not take for granted. We accept it as a moment for opening new vistas, extending bridges and saying farewell to needless divisions.

This emphatic statement at the ballot box has shattered the unhelpful myth that any part of our state is an impregnable stronghold of any party. It has removed the baseless stereotyping of certain parties as ethnic bastions and religious vehicles. I call on all leaders and citizens in our state to cherish this moment and make it the beginning of an enduring rapprochement. I say to every part of Kaduna State that we can achieve much together if we put our minds and our hearts to it.

Once again, I thank all the people of Kaduna State. It is humbling and reassuring that after six years in office, our people find our record of service compelling enough to vote for us. Our opponents portrayed the local government elections as a referendum on the performance of our government. The people have repudiated the vain hopes of an entitled segment of the political elite that our people would punish us at the polls for taking consequential decisions in favour of ordinary people.

The people have spoken again, and their views resoundingly denounce the selfish claims of political merchants. They have rejected populist timidity as credible political behaviour in a state that seeks rapid and enduring progress.

Our party has won a great victory across the state. We salute those who voted for us. We did not win every local government, although we campaigned hard to do well everywhere. And having worked hard to make our case to the people, we respect the views of those who chose differently!

We have restored democracy at the local level. We have reformed the local government system, enabling them to deliver services at the grassroots and for the bankrupt ones to move to solvency. And we hope that the newly elected officials will run these councils in an inspiring, new way. The elected chairmen and councillors, of any party, assume a sacred obligation to deliver for the people, to move closer to realising the goal for which they were established. We are convinced that democratic governance at the local level must have a substantive, real impact in the lives of people.

I wish to put on record our gratitude for the efforts of Dr. Saratu Dikko- Audu and her team at SIECOM for successfully repeating a revolution in election management in Nigeria. I thank the security agencies for providing a safe canopy for our people to joyfully exercise their democratic preferences.

However, we have sadly noted that those political forces that do not want free and fair elections tried to sabotage the process. We will investigate and prosecute those indicted.

As a government, we are grateful for this resounding endorsement. We do not have much time to savour the victory. We get back to work, to continue to do our best until the next elections.

God bless Kaduna State!

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!
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The police in Ogun State say they would soon rescue the three abducted workers at the former President Olusegun Obasanjos Farm and arrest their abductors.

The police spokesperson, Abimbola Oyeyemi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abeokuta that police were already on the trail of the fleeing suspected kidnappers.

NAN reports that the workers at the Obasanjos Farm, located at Kobape area in Obafemi-Owode Local Government area of Ogun, were allegedly kidnapped on Wednesday evening at Seseri Village.

According to a source, They were abducted in the evening at Seseri Village, after their Hilux car was shot at by the gunmen, who took them away.

READ ALSO: Gunmen kidnap traditional ruler in Niger

Mr Oyeyemi told NAN that police had since detailed its anti-kidnapping unit to comb the areas.

He assured people of the state that the abductors would soon be arrested, while the captives would regain their freedom.

The police spokesman reiterated the commands commitment to the security of lives and property in the state. (NAN)
IMAGE PROVIDEDThe Adirondack Council will publish the full State of the Park report, the theme of which is A Wilderness Refuge, to its website and in print on Tuesday, Sept. 7. The 28-page illustrated report documents the actions of local, state and federal officials that helped or harmed the park over the last year. It contains more than 100 topic summaries for which officials are granted a thumb up or a thumb down.
ELIZABETHTOWN [mdash] Kenneth M. Eddy, 68, of Elizabethtown passed away Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021, at his home. He was a kind soul that always saw the good around him. He loved transforming the earth into lovely gardens and his work can be seen at the Colonial Gardens and many other locations 
Blue Prism's success across industry verticals can be attributed to a strong focus on addressing the most important industry-specific business drivers with automation, for greatest impact. In energy and utilities, Blue Prism's intelligent automation platform is helping improve, among other things, customer experience, contact center operations, outbound customer service and the use of omni-channel virtual agents.

This sharp focus on industry solutions has contributed to Blue Prism's substantial growth, particularly within industries such as energy and utilities, the public sector, and manufacturing.

"As part of their transformation programs, companies and organizations in each industry are looking at automation as a way to improve efficiency, quality, service innovation, workers' effectiveness, visibility into operations performance, auditability, compliance and risk management," says Roberta Bigliani, group vice president, head of insights, IDC Europe. "Companies are on the journey to more extensively apply automation for value creation across multiple areas: in customer operations and engagement, citizen and patient experience; in core business processes, from the underwriting process in insurance, to tax management, or payment management; and in asset operations  being factories, networks, pipelines, facilities or other physical and financial assets."

In Insurance, Blue Prism continues to break new ground, using intelligent automation to streamline the entire customer experience, from quotes to underwriting, mid-term adjustments, renewals, and customer service.

In utilities, Blue Prism is working with prominent businesses such as Consolidated Edison, Inc., one of the largest investor-owned energy-delivery companies in the United States, to help realize improvements across the front and back office, including areas such as customer operations, supply chain, and finance. With dozens of automations in production, intelligent automation has proven a key component in supporting Consolidated Edison's goal of delivering safe, reliable, quality service at the lowest attainable cost for its customers.

Jack Deem, finance director at Consolidated Edison, said: "Blue Prism intelligent automation is becoming increasingly utilized across our organization and is a key factor in driving operational efficiency and effectiveness. By reducing the time our people spend on repetitive, manual tasks, we are able to redeploy the hours saved to both achieve bottom-line cost savings as well as invest additional time in value-added analytical activities."

In healthcare too, intelligent automation is creating new patient engagement models that have been critical in addressing digital transformation. Blue Prism solutions have played an important role in the fight against COVID-19. Areas of deployment include patient scheduling, remote consultations, logistics and supply management, vaccine management, and many more.

In manufacturing, a successful growth area for Blue Prism, an American agricultural machinery manufacturer has future-proofed its business using the robotic operating model (ROM). The company has automated over 60 processes, returning more than 94,000 work hours to the business every year and has deployed Blue Prism digital workers in finance, purchasing, HR, manufacturing, marketing, and IT.

In telecommunications, British Telecom (BT) has used Blue Prism as its service provider of choice to roll out over 400 automations across the business. In one instance, it has stabilized the demand on contact centers impacted by the pandemic by using automation to deploy a fault diagnostics robot, providing an entirely new digital channel for its customers to reach BT. Customers can communicate issues to BT's robot via text, automatically trigger diagnostic checks, and book an engineer visit to investigate the issue.

"I see BT becoming a more interesting place to work. We'll be a much more responsive organization," said Christian Smart, head of process automation, BT. "Using Blue Prism's digital workers, we'll be able to do what we do faster, which will lead to hugely improved customer experience and, ultimately, shareholder value."

Now an integral component for digital transformation, Blue Prism's industry specific solutions are proving their versatility and importance in driving key strategic business outcomes.

Notes to editors:

Blue Prism is a global leader in enterprise robotic process automation (RPA) and intelligent automation, transforming the way work is done. We have over 2,000 customers in over 170 countries and 70 industry verticals, 30% in the Forbes Global 2,000, creating value with new ways of working by unlocking efficiencies and returning millions of hours of work back into their businesses. Our enterprise digital robots offer high-scale automation that is secure, smart, accessible to all, enabling centrally managed human and digital workforces of the future and freeing up humans to re-imagine work. To learn more visit www.blueprism.com and follow us on Twitter @blue_prism and on LinkedIn .

 2021 Blue Prism Limited. "Blue Prism", the "Blue Prism" logo and Prism device are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Blue Prism Limited and its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611954/Blue_Prism_Shows_Strength_Across_Sectors.jpg

Related Links

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SOURCE Blue Prism
DUBAI, UAE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Malaysia Pavilion for Expo 2020 Dubai today announces PETRONAS as its premier partner for the World Expo that will take place from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022.

With its aspiration to be a progressive energy and solutions partner, the national energy company's participation aligns perfectly with the Pavilion's "Energising Sustainability" theme.

As climate change becomes one of the most important priorities for the global community, Expo 2020 Dubai is a good platform for PETRONAS to showcase its sustainability aspirations and roadmap to achieve Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050.

Themed "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," the World Expo will be participated by 192 countries and organisations. This quinquennial mega event aims to promote global cooperation, innovation, technological development, human progress and education, and will be held for the first time in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region.

"The growing momentum for us to transition to low carbon is imperative and we are proud to have one of Malaysia's most successful homegrown brands, PETRONAS, to be part of Malaysia's representation at the World Expo. PETRONAS' accomplishments throughout the years and its commitment to help shape climate action beyond its immediate sphere of influence bolsters the nation's credibility in sustainability," said Shamsul Bahar Mohd Nor, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC).

He added that corporations are needed to go further to help build a carbon neutral future for everyone and that he was optimistic that strong partnerships would help move the world closer to a more energy efficient future for all.

Malaysia's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai is led by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation with MGTC as implementing agency.

"Our partnership with Malaysia Pavilion gives us the opportunity to showcase PETRONAS' commitment and holistic approach to sustainability. We are embracing the need to chart a more sustainable path forward, and drive the maturity of our Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) practices as well as realising our Net Zero Carbon Emissions by 2050 aspiration," said Tengku Muhammad Taufik, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS.

"We will continue our efforts in our operational excellence and through innovative partnerships to create cleaner energy solutions towards building a carbon neutral future for all."

PETRONAS will have a dedicated exhibition area for a period of six months inside the Pavilion featuring a 3D animated effect presentation on its sustainability journey, ventures into new energy and innovative solutions. The visually stunning animation in a giant suspended cube will be a permanent feature throughout the entire Expo 2020 Dubai. This exhibit aims to inspire visitors with the energy company's vision of a better future through its innovative technologies to provide access to cleaner, affordable, secure, and sustainable energy for all.

The company is also expected to take part in panel discussions and business meetings with foreign dignitaries and business leaders at the Pavilion, while also participating in thought leadership forums.

"PETRONAS' participation as premier partner catalyses our efforts to encourage other Malaysian businesses to leverage Expo 2020 to build their brands' visibility at a global platform," added Shamsul Bahar. "While providing an avenue for corporations to join in on the conversation, our objective is also to position Malaysia as a sustainable and future-ready investment hub that is committed to improving how we do business on the day to day."

Malaysia Pavilion is designed as a "Rainforest Canopy." The various segments of the Pavilion house permanent displays and exhibits that reflect Malaysia's unique and steadfast commitment to sustainable development.

The Pavilion will host weekly thematic trade and business programmes which will encompass over 10 industry verticals. They include education, youth & technopreneurship, trade, Industry 4.0 & smart manufacturing, science, technology and innovation, environment & water, sustainable agriculture & agricommodities, healthcare, tourism & culture, energy, e-commerce & ICT, halal industry and Islamic finance.

Expo 2020 will officially open on 1 October 2021. Malaysians will have the chance to visit the Pavilion via a virtual platform that will be announced later.

ABOUT MALAYSIA PAVILION AT EXPO 2020 DUBAI

Malaysia will be among 192 countries participating in Expo 2020 Dubai, scheduled for 1 Oct. 2021 to 31 March 2022. Themed "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future," the world expo is the first to be held in the Middle East, Africa & South Asia region.

Malaysia's pavilion is self-built and depicts a Rainforest Canopy. It carries the theme "Energising Sustainability" to capture the nation's commitment and approaches to sustainable development. It is a net zero carbon pavilion.

Malaysia's activities during the expo will include permanent displays, showcases, pocket talks, summits and forums, cultural performances, demonstrations and 26 weekly thematic trade and business programmes. The business weeks will be helmed and supported by 21 ministries, 69 agencies and 5 state governments, with over 200 companies participating as business delegates.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is the lead ministry for Malaysia's participation at the mega event. Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC) is the implementing agency.

ABOUT MALAYSIAN GREEN TECHNOLOGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE CENTRE

Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Centre (MGTC) is an agency under the Ministry of Environment and Water whose scope involves green growth, climate change and sustainable lifestyle.

Three national policies  the National Green Technology Policy (NGTP), the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP) and the Green Technology Master Plan (GTMP)  outline MGTC's role as a catalyst for green economic growth.

Its three core roles are:

Mainstreaming the Green Economy through green product and service expansion programmes such as MyHIJAU Mark Certification Programme, Green Technology Financing Scheme (GTFS) and green technology tax incentives, namely the Green Income Tax Exemption (GITE) and Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA), besides providing training and human capital development schemes.

Drive climate change mitigation actions such as advocacy for energy efficiency and renewable energy, low carbon city programmes and low carbon mobility initiatives.

Cultivate a green lifestyle through publicity and awareness programmes in fostering cooperation between the government and private sectors via global-scale platforms such as the International Greentech and Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) and other public programmes.

For enquiries, please contact: Jane at tel: +6019 3871991 or email at: [email protected].

SOURCE Malaysia Pavilion
WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks that took the lives of nearly 3,000 people on American soil. As President Joe Biden participates in solemn ceremonies in lower Manhattan, at the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pa., marking the events of that day, his reckless border and immigration policies leave the nation more vulnerable to attack than we were 20 years ago, charges the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR).

"The first eight months of the Biden administration provide a sad bookend to 9/11 and have made a mockery of the lives and treasure that has been expended in an effort to prevent another such attack," said Dan Stein, president of FAIR. "Twenty years ago, President George W. Bush ignored warnings about the threat of a terrorist attack on our soil and the dangers posed by lax immigration and border enforcement, and instead focused his efforts on providing amnesty to millions of illegal aliens. Today, President Biden is ignoring similar warnings, deliberately leaving our borders unsecured, ceasing virtually all immigration enforcement, and focusing his administration's efforts on slipping an even larger amnesty for illegal aliens into a gargantuan $3.5 trillion spending package.

"Twenty years ago, we went to war with the Taliban because it provided a safe haven and a base of operation for al-Qaeda," continued Stein. "Today, President Biden's disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan has left the Taliban in charge once again, with both al-Qaeda and its offshoot, ISIS, poised to take advantage. His even more disastrous evacuation plans have left American citizens and Afghans who aided us stranded, while some 100,000 unvetted Afghans managed to get on flights out of Kabul. Rather than rigorous vetting of evacuees seeking to enter the United States, the Biden administration is now seeking billions of dollars to expedite their resettlement here.

"Meanwhile, President Biden has eviscerated effective border enforcement policies he inherited when he took office and halted immigration enforcement in the interior of the country, providing newly emboldened global terrorist networks even greater opportunities to strike the United States," Stein charged.

FAIR also noted that as we mark the 20th anniversary of 9/11, numerous immigration enforcement measures, recommended by the commission that investigated the attacks, and later codified into law, have either been ignored or affirmatively undermined in recent years.



State-issued driver's licenses were instrumental in the 9/11 terrorists' ability to attack the United States . Today 16 states and the District of Columbia issue licenses to people regardless of immigration status and despite their lack of ability to truly confirm their identities.

. Today 16 states and the issue licenses to people regardless of immigration status and despite their lack of ability to truly confirm their identities. Lack of cooperation and information sharing between local and federal agencies prevented 9/11 terrorists from being identified and removed before they attacked. Today, in an effort to prevent illegal aliens from being identified, more than 500 jurisdictions have implemented sanctuary policies that shield illegal aliens and impede efforts to identify and remove even those who pose a danger to the country.

9/11 was the impetus for the creation of the Department of Homeland Security. Today, under the leadership of Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas , that department is actively undermining laws and policies intended to protect the security of the homeland.

"As the president and the first lady pay tribute to the thousands who lost their lives on 9/11, it will be the American people who are nervously checking their watches because our enemies have never been stronger, and our defenses have never been weaker," concluded Stein.

Contact: Matthew Tragesser, 202-328-7004 or [email protected]

ABOUT FAIR

Founded in 1979, FAIR is the country's largest immigration reform group. With over 3 million members and supporters nationwide, FAIR fights for immigration policies that serve national interests, not special interests. FAIR believes that immigration reform must enhance national security, improve the economy, protect jobs, preserve our environment, and establish a rule of law that is recognized and enforced.

SOURCE Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR)

Related Links

http://www.fairus.org


In all four US census regions, telehealth claim lines fell from May to June 2021 as a percentage of medical claim lines just as they did nationally, with the sharpest decrease occurring in the Northeast. In that region, telehealth utilization dropped 11.9 percent from May to June 2021.

Other changes from May to June 2021 involved the top five telehealth diagnoses. Joint/soft tissue diseases and issues rose in the rankings of top five telehealth diagnoses nationally and in every region but the West. Nationally, this diagnosis rose from number four in May, with 2.5 percent of telehealth claim lines, to number three in June, with 2.6 percent of telehealth claim lines.

Acute respiratory diseases and infections rose nationally from number three among telehealth diagnoses in May 2021 to number two in June. Nationally and in every region, mental health conditions remained in the number one spot among telehealth diagnoses and continued to increase in percentage of telehealth claim lines.

Urinary tract infections appeared in fifth place among telehealth diagnoses in the South in June 2021. This was the first time since the start of the pandemic in March 2020 that this diagnosis appeared on the regional or national lists, although it had been common on the lists prior to the pandemic.

There were also some changes in the top five telehealth procedure codes by utilization. For example, nationally, from May to June 2021, CPT2 99214, established patient outpatient visit, total time 30-39 minutes, rose from third to second place, while CPT 99213, established patient outpatient visit, total time 20-29 minutes, fell from second to third place.

About the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker

Launched in May 2020 as a free service, the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker uses FAIR Health data to track how telehealth is evolving from month to month. An interactive map of the four US census regions allows the user to view an infographic on telehealth in a specific month in the nation as a whole or in individual regions. Each infographic shows month-to-month changes in volume of telehealth claim lines, top five telehealth procedure codes and top five telehealth diagnoses (or diagnostic categories), along with that month's top five granular diagnoses within the most common diagnostic category.

FAIR Health President Robin Gelburd stated: "As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, FAIR Health's Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker reveals accompanying changes in telehealth. The Telehealth Tracker is one of the ways we pursue our healthcare transparency mission."

For the Monthly Telehealth Regional Tracker, click here.

Follow us on Twitter @FAIRHealth

About FAIR Health

FAIR Health is a national, independent nonprofit organization that qualifies as a public charity under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code. It is dedicated to bringing transparency to healthcare costs and health insurance information through data products, consumer resources and health systems research support. FAIR Health possesses the nation's largest collection of private healthcare claims data, which includes over 35 billion claim records and is growing at a rate of over 2 billion claim records a year. FAIR Health licenses its privately billed data and data productsincluding benchmark modules, data visualizations, custom analytics and market indicesto commercial insurers and self-insurers, employers, providers, hospitals and healthcare systems, government agencies, researchers and others. Certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) as a national Qualified Entity, FAIR Health also receives data representing the experience of all individuals enrolled in traditional Medicare Parts A, B and D; FAIR Health includes among the private claims data in its database, data on Medicare Advantage enrollees. FAIR Health can produce insightful analytic reports and data products based on combined Medicare and commercial claims data for government, providers, payors and other authorized users. FAIR Health's systems for processing and storing protected health information have earned HITRUST CSF certification and achieved AICPA SOC 2 compliance by meeting the rigorous data security requirements of these standards. As a testament to the reliability and objectivity of FAIR Health data, the data have been incorporated in statutes and regulations around the country and designated as the official, neutral data source for a variety of state health programs, including workers' compensation and personal injury protection (PIP) programs. FAIR Health data serve as an official reference point in support of certain state balance billing laws that protect consumers against bills for surprise out-of-network and emergency services. FAIR Health also uses its database to power a free consumer website available in English and Spanish, which enables consumers to estimate and plan for their healthcare expenditures and offers a rich educational platform on health insurance. An English/Spanish mobile app offers the same educational platform in a concise format and links to the cost estimation tools. The website has been honored by the White House Summit on Smart Disclosure, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), URAC, the eHealthcare Leadership Awards, appPicker, Employee Benefit News and Kiplinger's Personal Finance. FAIR Health also is named a top resource for patients in Dr. Marty Makary's book The Price We Pay: What Broke American Health Careand How to Fix It and Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal's book An American Sickness: How Healthcare Became Big Business and How You Can Take It Back. For more information on FAIR Health, visit fairhealth.org.

Contact:

Rachel Kent

Senior Director of Marketing, Outreach and Communications

FAIR Health

646-396-0795

[email protected]







1 A claim line is an individual service or procedure listed on an insurance claim. 2 CPT  2020 American Medical Association (AMA). All rights reserved.

SOURCE FAIR Health

Related Links

www.fairhealth.org


HILO, Hawaii, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Andrzej Kudelka MD, FACP, FACE, is being recognized by Continental Who's Who for a Trusted Oncologist for his professional excellence in the medical field and his unwavering dedication as a traveling doctor for Hilo Medical Center.

Dr. Andrzej Kudelka, a board-certified oncologist, has been in medical practice for over four decades, specializing in gynecology, melanoma, sarcoma, advanced thyroid, cancer, and breast medicine, to name a few. He most recently moved to Hawaii and joined the Hilo Medical Center team as an attending and traveling doctor. Prior to his current role, he gained valuable experience as a vital member of the Melanoma Management Team at Stony Brook Cancer Center, which he joined in 2006. Dr. Kudelka remains a faculty member within the Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University. An expert in his field, Dr. Kudelka has researched the areas of gynecology and breast cancer.

In light of his academic achievements, Dr. Kudelka graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from City College of CUNY in 1974. He was also a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society. Furthering his studies, Dr. Kudelka attended Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences, where he studied Applied Mathematics, followed by Columbia University, where he studied Biology. Dr. Kudelka's medical career began after obtaining his medical degree in 1982 at the Medical Academy of Gdansk in Poland. In the same year, he was elected as a member of the Electoral College of the Medical Academy of Gdansk for the Academy's President, Vice President, and Deans' first free elections.

Dedicated to his medical training, Dr. Kudelka's completed an internal medicine residency at Coney Island Hospital and the Veteran's Administration Medical Center. Lastly, he completed a hematology/oncology fellowship at the State University of New York at Stony Brook. With a commitment to excellence, Dr. Kudelka is board-certified in internal medicine, medical oncology & hospice, and palliative medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Throughout his extensive career, Dr. Kudelka excelled in the academic sector. He has served as an associate professor and associate internist at The University of Texas / M. D. Anderson Cancer Center within the following: Department of Gynecologic Medical Oncology, the Department of Breast Medical Oncology, the Department of Clinical Investigation, the Department of Medical Oncology, and the Department of Clinical Immunology and Biological Therapy. Furthermore, he served on various medical committees, including the Stony Brook Cancer Center Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and the Quality and Patient Safety Committee at Stony Brook University.

Remaining abreast of the latest advancements in his field, Dr. Kudelka maintained active memberships with several professional organizations, including the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine, The Society for Melanoma Research, the Connective Tissue Oncology Society, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the American Association for Cancer Research, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the International Gynecologic Cancer Society. Additionally, he is a distinguished Fellow of the American College of Physicians and the American College of Endocrinology.

As a testament to his professional excellence, Dr. Kudelka is the recipient of many awards and accolades. He was named a Castle Connolly Top Doctor and a Top Doctor by Newsday.

To learn more, please visit https://www.hilomedicalcenter.org/. You can learn more about Dr. Kudelka's research at:

https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C33&q=+Andrzej+Kudelka&btnG=

Contact: Katherine Green, 516-825-5634, [email protected]



SOURCE Continental Who's Who

Related Links

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NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashcroft Capital , a fully integrated multifamily investment firm, today announced the addition of Traci Wilhelm as director of asset management.

Wilhelm joins Ashcroft from RXR Realty, where she served as senior vice president of multifamily operations and asset management, managing a $2.7 billion portfolio of properties in the Northeast. At Ashcroft, she will oversee all of the asset management functions across the company's entire portfolio, implementing tools and systems to optimize operational performance and drive value appreciation. Her expertise includes an in-depth understanding of the new technologies being introduced to the multifamily industry. During her time at RXR Realty, she both led a digital lab team's creation of a resident-facing mobile application and acted as a consultant to property technology investment committees as they determined the reasonability of investments.

"We are very excited for Traci to join us at Ashcroft Capital," said Frank Roessler, founder and chief executive officer of Ashcroft Capital. "Her experience and skillsets are a perfect complement to the growth trajectory that our firm is endeavoring on. As we continue to institutionalize each department of the firm, it is critical that they are led by premier industry talent like Traci."

Before her time with RXR Realty, Wilhelm was director of multifamily asset management at CBRE Global Investors, where she managed a $1.2 billion portfolio of Class A and value-add assets across the country, including 3,700 multifamily units and 76,000 square feet of retail space. Earlier in her career, she served as director of asset management at JPI and as asset manager at Gables Residential. Wilhelm also practiced real estate transaction law for three years in Denver.

"I have admired Ashcroft's impressive track record in the multifamily space, and I could not be more excited about the opportunity to become part of its leadership team," Wilhelm said. "Ashcroft has a proven history of creating value through the rebranding and repositioning of the communities it acquires, bringing a better quality of life to their existing and new residents. I am looking forward to working with the tremendous team here at Ashcroft to continue and even accelerate the successes seen thus far."

Wilhelm has a Bachelor of Arts from University of Colorado Boulder, a Juris Doctorate from Washington and Lee School of Law and a Master of Science in Real Estate Finance and Construction Management from the University of Denver.

Since its inception, Ashcroft Capital has acquired more than 11,700 units. It currently has $1.4 billion of assets under management and owns more than 8,300 apartment homes. Until this year, the company's portfolio consisted of apartment communities in Jacksonville, Fla., Dallas-Fort Worth, Orlando, Fla., and Tampa, Fla. Ashcroft entered the metro Atlanta market this year and is also seeking acquisition opportunities in the Charlotte, N.C., Raleigh-Durham, N.C., and Phoenix metros.

Birchstone Residential , Ashcroft Capital's in-house property management company, manages all of Ashcroft's owned multifamily communities. Birchstone was created to provide best-in-class service that attracts new residents, enriches the lifestyles of current residents and drives the operational performance of the Ashcroft portfolio, leading to targeted rates of return. Birchstone promotes a culture of authenticity, transparency and empowered associates.

About Ashcroft Capital

Founded in 2015, Ashcroft Capital has acquired over $1.4 billion of assets and more than 11,700 units. The firm focuses on capital preservation while striving to return strong, risk-adjusted cash-on-cash to investors. Ashcroft is capitalized with high net worth, family office and institutional capital. Within the real estate industry, Ashcroft specializes in value-add real estate and exhibits an expertise in extracting maximum value from every asset it acquires. Rather than attempting to play market timing, the firm strives to acquire excellent apartment communities within well-located submarkets of large and growing U.S. metroplexes.

Media Contact

Stephen Ursery

LinnellTaylor Marketing

[email protected]

303.682.3945

SOURCE Ashcroft Capital

Related Links

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LEESBURG, Va., Sept. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On Wednesday, hundreds of activists gathered in Loudoun County, Virginia for a 'Rally to Save Our Schools,' hosted by 1776 Action and Fight for Schools, two groups fighting "anti-American indoctrination" in K-12 education.

Loudoun County has become the epicenter of the national debate over critical race theory, with local activists leading a recall campaign against nearly the entire school board. With Virginia's gubernatorial elections this November, the event highlighted the growing importance of this issue in the campaign.

The rally featured local parents, followed by speeches and Q&A from Dr. Ben Carson and Virginia's GOP nominees for governor and lieutenant governor, Glenn Youngkin and Winsome Sears. A group of candidates also committed to restore patriotic education by signing "The 1776 Pledge."

Dr. Ben Carson, the former HUD Secretary and member of President Trump's 1776 Commission said:

"We will only remain the land of the free if we are the home of the brave, and I'm inspired by the growing number of parents and teachers, especially in Loudoun County, who've been holding elected officials accountable for the toxic ideologies being pushed on our children. America won't survive if we teach our children to hate their country and its values. I hope this event continues to wake people up."

Glenn Youngkin, facing former Governor Terry McAuliffe in November, said:

"Virginia's students have fallen behind because of Terry McAuliffe's and Ralph Northam's failed leadership that kept schools closed, lowered standards, and pushed political agendas. Ridding political agendas in the classroom by banning critical race theory is just one part of my Day One Game Plan that will empower parents and restore excellence in education. 1776 Action and Fight for Schools should be commended for hosting this evening's event and keeping this issue front and center."

Winsome Sears, GOP Nominee for Virginia's Lieutenant Governor stated:

"For too long, dangerous ideologies like Critical Race Theory have been taught in our schools, poisoning the minds of our youth. I 'm proud to join this effort to fight back. I commend 1776 Action and Fight for Schools for their work on this issue, and I look forward to working to restore fair and unbiased education as the next Lieutenant Governor of Virginia."

Learn More: 1776Action.org

SOURCE 1776 Action

Related Links

www.1776action.org


PHOENIX, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SinglePoint Inc (OTCQB: SING) subsidiary BOX Pure Air announced orders to provide multiple units of their newest model, the Apex 2.0, to a school in North Carolina. Large spaces in schools used to be either too difficult or too expensive to properly filter. The Apex 2.0 was designed and built specifically to provide air filtration and ventilation to address the needs of schools outside of the classroom. The company is currently having multiple active and repeat discussions with several schools in its pipeline.

Poor Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) can be the cause of headaches, lead to fatigue and can enhance allergies and asthma beyond the current crisis of Covid. The Apex 2.0 improves the air quality indoors where students and teachers spend more than one thousand hours a year of their time on average. In fact it is estimated that people spend nearly ninety percent of our time indoors. Covid-19 has brought into focus the absolute need for improvement of IAQ as we now look to create indoor safe environments that provide increase protection against pathogens and highly contagious airborne viruses, especially in schools.

The school will be using the industrial Apex 2.0 units to rid the air of harmful airborne particles in high traffic areas such as its library, preschool, gymnasium, and cafeteria. These large areas, within schools but outside of the classroom, are areas of concern for school leaders and need industrial, commercial-grade solutions designed to handle the air flow volume necessary to provide safe air zones for students, teachers and staff.

"Federal funding, in excess of $190 Billion has been allocated for schools across the nation specifically to be used for improving air quality. While there is no single thing a school or facility can do to eliminate all potential risks, it is clear air purification and ventilation is a major contributor in reducing the potential spread of the virus. Our Apex 2.0 unit will assist in mitigating these risks while also providing a healthier environment for our kids and educational staff. We expect many schools to utilize the available funding to improve their systems for the long-term future and to solve the crisis at hand. We are in many active discussions, assisting schools in developing their plan as well as assisting in navigating the federal funding process. We expect to see multiple follow-on purchases in the coming months," states Ryan Cowell CEO and Founder of BOX Pure Air.

The approach many schools have taken up to this point is to place multiple units in these larger areas (sometimes as many as five medium-sized units) to achieve the desired number of Air Changes Per Hour (ACH). The Apex 2.0 is capable of doing the same job, and in many cases more effectively. The Apex 2.0 has the ability to clean up to 1,500 cubic ft per minute, having one Apex 2.0 that plugs into the wall and can be moved anywhere is by far more efficient and cost-effective. The typical ideal scenario increases cross ventilation and filtration in larger spaces utilizing to create a safer air zone.

The Apex 2.0 (MSRP $5,399.00) has no identifiable competition in the market due to its power and superior quality, making it revolutionary in the air purification space. A recent analysis of the 3,000 sq foot space has demonstrated that the purchase and operational cost of the Apex 2.0 over a five year is approximately five times less than using four smaller units from another manufacturer equaling a savings of nearly $40,000.00. The Apex 2.0 is giving schools the ability to rid the air of harmful pathogens, while saving thousands of dollars on operational costs and energy consumption costs. BOX Pure Air expects to see more schools making the switch to Apex 2.0's in the coming months.

About BOX Pure Air, LLC

BOX Pure Air strives to provide the best products to help clean air through the deployment of high-efficiency air purification technologies. Learn more at www.boxpureair.com . BOX Pure Air is a subsidiary of SinglePoint Inc.OTCQB:SING.

Contact Information

[email protected]

843.936.6649

www.boxpureair.com

SOURCE SinglePoint Inc.

Related Links

singlepoint.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Workers' compensation insurance fraud fighter, the California Staffing Agency Reform Association (Cal-SARA) has selected LoBue & Majdalany Association Management (L&M) to support its ongoing association management activities.

Founded in October 2020, Cal-SARA was formed to stop the fraud that has resulted from increased demand for a contingent or variable workforce, placing staffing agencies, injured workers and California taxpayers at risk. Cal-SARA provides education, training and legal support for its members, as well as aiding regulators and insurers.

"This new partnership will allow Cal-SARA to focus on building public awareness and influence through partnerships, collaborations and professional initiatives while L&M manages our headquarters and operations base," says Cal-SARA Executive Director Mark Bertler. "We conducted a competitive RFP process and determined that L&M is best able to meet the needs of our growing association," he adds.

L&M has a strong reputation for managing the operational needs of associations so their leaders can focus on mission-advancing activities.

"We are excited to support Cal-SARA's leadership to address the important problems of workers' compensation fraud in the marketplace. Our relationship is a strong complement as LoBue & Majdalany has extensive experience supporting and guiding start-up trade associations," said Michael LoBue, CAE founder and CEO of LoBue & Majdalany Association Management.

About Cal-SARA

Cal-SARA is a nonprofit membership-based association promoting legal and regulatory compliance in the sale of workers' compensation insurance and advocates for the common business interests of its members in recognizing and eliminating workers' compensation fraud in the temporary staffing/staffing/recruiting industries. Learn more at www.cal-sara.org.

About LoBue & Majdalany Association Management (L&M)

L&M recently celebrated 28 years in business and is a recognized leader in association management, serving local, state, national and international trade associations across a range of industry sectors. L&M is a Charter Accredited AMC by the AMC Institute and a partner firm of Collegium Partners. For more information about L&M, visit: www.lm-mgmt.com.

MEDIA CONTACT

Mark Bertler

415-561-6271

[email protected]

SOURCE Cal-SARA

Related Links

http://www.cal-sara.org


SAN DIEGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- AB45 was written and sponsored by Assembly member Cecilia Aguiar-Curry. The bill has Governor Gavin Newsom's blessing and was drafted in close consultation with large Multistate Marijuana operators and Hemp Round Table and outside corporate lobbying groups who are attempting to take control of the California hemp industry. The author did not seek sufficient input from California farmers and other stakeholders actively involved in the hemp industry in CA.

These groups have aggressively pushed AB45, a harmful anti-farmer bill masquerading under the guise of consumer safety that will harshly regulate the nascent industry to death. Disproportionately affecting small & minority-owned hemp farmers & mid-size service & CBD products companies who have already spent millions establishing themselves in CA.

This poorly-drafted bill creates a confusing new bureaucracy adding burdensome regulations and compelling CA state agencies to inspect and certify out-of-state hemp facilities selling into California.

AB45 doesn't just inhibit California hemp farmers in the middle of this season's grow from selling their crop, but will also shut down thousands of California's CBD Wellness companies by criminalizing their products.

According to Beau Whitney, Economist, Whitney Group and National Industrial Hemp Council

"As of August 31, 2021, California's 290 licensed hemp farms this year, alone, are accounting for between 1,740 and 3,335 jobs, annually totaling $62.8M - $120.3M in wages paid and $150.6M - $324.8M in indirect economic benefit. Adding to these are the many other jobs created by businesses specializing in smokable hemp and whole-plant extracts, such as post-harvest processors, manufacturers, and retailers, most of which are small, frequently family-owned enterprises."

Longtime Hemp Industry Advocate and Founder, Chris Boucher, CEO, Farmtiva; "AB45 makes no sense and the farmers of California deserve better. Gov. Newsom and his hemp marijuana lobby have made it their mission to push their poorly considered and badly drafted bill, down the throats of California hemp farmers."

"AB45 will take this promising market away from our diverse hemp farmers and hand it to Big Marijuana and Big Pharma." - Josh Schneider, CEO of Cultivaris Hemp; President, Hemp Farmers Guild.

"We see headlines like "Gov. Newsom drops support for ban on smokable hemp in California" and "Smokable hemp ban removed from California Bill" which are misleading. The ban was not removed. Inhalable products are currently banned until a tax is enacted which could be years if ever." - Justin Fiore, CEO of Milestone Hemp/Source Extracts, a national distributor of hemp and hemp-derived products.

About Hemp Farmers Guild: The Hemp Farmers Guild works to educate legislators, regulators and farmers on the issues and challenges facing the hemp growers of California. We advocate for reasonable legislation and responsible regulation that helps ensure safe, high-quality products are available for all the residents of our state.

Contact: Hemp Farmers Guild

Chris Boucher

949-510-9971

[email protected]

Josh Schneider

760-802-0542

[email protected]

SOURCE California Hemp Farmers Guild

Related Links

www.hempfarmersguild.org


As Chairman of the WFE, Mr. Tilly will work with WFE CEO Nandini Sukumar and its board and members to advance the organization's mission to foster well-functioning capital markets, reinforce systemic stability, support developing markets and educate on the role exchanges and clearinghouses play in the global economy. Additionally, together with its members, the WFE creates and agrees on best practices and standards for the industry. Mr. Tilly was elected Chairman by the WFE membership during its 60 th Annual Meeting, hosted by the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, which was held virtually today.

"I am deeply honored to have the privilege to serve as the new Chairman of the WFE," said Ed Tilly, Chairman, President and CEO of Cboe Global Markets. "Cboe has been a longstanding member of the WFE and shares a common vision for promoting markets that serve all investors. I look forward to working even more closely with Nandini and the WFE board and its members as a collective force to ensure the integrity of global markets, advocate for smart and efficient regulation, support measures that facilitate global capital flow, drive the transition towards an inclusive and sustainable economy, and speak as one clear and powerful voice for our industry."

Nandini Sukumar, CEO of the WFE, said: "We are pleased to welcome Ed as Chairman of the WFE. Ed brings many years of industry experience and a passion and commitment to our mission, and we look forward to furthering our progress under his chairmanship. We would like to also express immense gratitude to Dr. Urs Ruegsegger, the outgoing chairman, who has been a great champion of our industry and of the WFE. He has been instrumental in making us the voice of the industry. Exchanges and CCPs will continue to play a vital role in fostering a sustainable financial system and in ensuring the integrity and stability of our markets. As market infrastructure continues to evolve globally, the WFE remains committed to its mission of maintaining resilient, open and interconnected markets across the world."

Dr. Urs Ruegsegger, Chairman of SIX Swiss Exchange and outgoing Chairman of the WFE, said: "I have enjoyed working with Ed during our tenures at the WFE and wish him the best of luck as he takes the helm as Chairman. I have no doubt that he and Nandini will continue to successfully guide the WFE board in its work to further promote the development of well-regulated and transparent markets, serve its members, and position the WFE as the world's most important advocacy group for exchanges and CCPs globally."

The WFE represents more than 250 market-infrastructures ranging from those that operate the largest financial centers to those that run frontier markets. Of its members, 37 percent are spread across the Asia-Pacific region, 43 percent in Europe, Middle East and Africa, and 20 percent are the Americas. Members include over 50 distinct CCP clearing services, among them stand-alone CCPs. WFE exchanges are home to 47,919 listed companies, and the market capitalization of these entities is over $109 trillion.

Mr. Tilly will draw on his 30 years of experience as an integral member of the Cboe community to serve the WFE. Prior to being named CEO in 2013, Mr. Tilly was Cboe President and Chief Operating Officer, served as Cboe Executive Vice Chairman and as Cboe's Member Vice Chairman  the highest member-elected position at the Exchange. He started as a trading floor clerk in 1987, eventually trading as both a market-maker and a designated primary market-maker (DPM) until joining Cboe's executive management team in 2006.

As Chairman, President and CEO of Cboe, Mr. Tilly has guided the company in expanding its role as a market leader in providing cutting-edge trading and investment solutions to investors worldwide. As a result of his leadership, Cboe offers trading across a diverse range of products in multiple asset classes and geographies. Most recently, the company expanded its global footprint with the acquisitions of MATCHNow in Canada and Chi-X Asia Pacific, as well as with the launch of its Cboe Europe Derivatives exchange. In November, the company plans to expand global trading hours for its S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Cboe Volatility Index (VIX) options to nearly 24 hours a day, five days per week, subject to regulatory review.

About Cboe Global Markets, Inc.

Cboe Global Markets (Cboe: CBOE), a leading provider of market infrastructure and tradable products, delivers cutting-edge trading, clearing and investment solutions to market participants around the world. The company is committed to operating a trusted, inclusive global marketplace, providing leading products, technology and data solutions that enable participants to define a sustainable financial future. Cboe provides trading solutions and products in multiple asset classes, including equities, derivatives and FX, across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more, visit www.cboe.com.

CBOE-C

CBOE-OE

Cboe, Cboe Global Markets, Cboe Volatility Index, and VIX are registered trademarks of Cboe Exchange, Inc. Standard & Poor's, S&P, and S&P 500 are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor's Financial Services, LLC, and have been licensed for use by Cboe Exchange, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

Any products that have the S&P Index or Indexes as their underlying interest are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by Standard & Poor's or Cboe and neither Standard & Poor's nor Cboe make any representations or recommendations concerning the advisability of investing in products that have S&P indexes as their underlying interests. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

Options involve risk and are not suitable for all market participants. Prior to buying or selling an option, a person should review the Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options (ODD), which is required to be provided to all such persons. Copies of the ODD are available from your broker or from The Options Clearing Corporation, 125 S. Franklin Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60606.

Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates do not recommend or make any representation as to possible benefits from any securities, futures or investments, or third-party products or services. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. is not affiliated with S&P. Investors should undertake their own due diligence regarding their securities, futures and investment practices. This press release speaks only as of this date. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. disclaims any duty to update the information herein. Nothing in this announcement should be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell any securities or futures in any jurisdiction where the offer or solicitation would be unlawful under the laws of such jurisdiction. Nothing contained in this communication constitutes tax, legal or investment advice. Investors must consult their tax adviser or legal counsel for advice and information concerning their particular situation.

Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates, to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, make no warranty, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, any warranties as of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, accuracy, completeness or timeliness, the results to be obtained by recipients of the products and services described herein, or as to the ability of the S&P 500 index to track the performance of its strategy, and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies or errors. Cboe Global Markets, Inc. and its affiliates have not calculated, composed or determined the constituents or weightings of the securities that comprise the third-party indices referenced in this press release and shall not in any way be liable for any inaccuracies or errors in any of the indices referenced in this press release.

Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. You can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as "may," "might," "should," "expect," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential" or "continue," and the negative of these terms and other comparable terminology. All statements that reflect our expectations, assumptions or projections about the future other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, which are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions about us, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations and projections about future events. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.

We operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks and uncertainties emerge from time to time, and it is not possible to predict all risks and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements.

Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include: the impact of the novel coronavirus ("COVID-19") pandemic, including changes to trading behavior broadly in the market; the loss of our right to exclusively list and trade certain index options and futures products; economic, political and market conditions; compliance with legal and regulatory obligations; price competition and consolidation in our industry; decreases in trading or clearing volumes, market data fees or a shift in the mix of products traded on our exchanges; legislative or regulatory changes; our ability to protect our systems and communication networks from security risks, cybersecurity risks, insider threats and unauthorized disclosure of confidential information; increasing competition by foreign and domestic entities; our dependence on and exposure to risk from third parties; fluctuations to currency exchange rates; our index providers' ability to maintain the quality and integrity of their indices and to perform under our agreements; our ability to operate our business without violating the intellectual property rights of others and the costs associated with protecting our intellectual property rights; our ability to attract and retain skilled management and other personnel; our ability to minimize the risks, including our credit and default risks, associated with operating a European clearinghouse; our ability to accommodate trading and clearing volume and transaction traffic, including significant increases, without failure or degradation of performance of our systems; misconduct by those who use our markets or our products or for whom we clear transactions; challenges to our use of open source software code; our ability to meet our compliance obligations, including managing potential conflicts between our regulatory responsibilities and our for-profit status; our ability to maintain BIDS Trading as an independently managed and operated trading venue, separate from and not integrated with our registered national securities exchanges; damage to our reputation; the ability of our compliance and risk management methods to effectively monitor and manage our risks; our ability to manage our growth and strategic acquisitions or alliances effectively; restrictions imposed by our debt obligations and our ability to make payments on or refinance our debt obligations; our ability to maintain an investment grade credit rating; impairment of our goodwill, long-lived assets, investments or intangible assets; and the accuracy of our estimates and expectations. More detailed information about factors that may affect our actual results to differ may be found in our filings with the SEC, including in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and other filings made from time to time with the SEC.

We do not undertake, and we expressly disclaim, any duty to update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.

SOURCE Cboe Global Markets, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.cboe.com


COP26 will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in November, while the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (COP15) will be held in south China's Kunming City online in October 2021 and offline in October 2022.

Han stressed that global solidarity and cooperation are needed to tackle climate change.

Expressing expectations for COP26, Han hopes that the climate conference will send a strong political signal for firmly upholding multilateralism, respecting multilateral rules and promoting actions. He also expects that the delegates at COP26 will actively transform climate goals into specific policies and actions, and complete the negotiations to meet the Paris Agreement.

Both countries have maintained good cooperation in dealing with climate change and have set stronger carbon emission reduction targets to meet carbon neutrality, Han said, also calling both sides to exploit their advantages and strengthen dialogue related to climate change.

China, which holds the presidency of COP15, is willing to work with the UK to promote the success of the two conferences, Han said.

Hailing China's efforts in tackling climate change, Sharma said the UK looks forward to expanding exchanges and cooperation in areas such as climate finance, energy and carbon trading and is willing to strengthen dialogue and coordination with China to achieve positive outcomes at COP26 and COP15.

SOURCE CGTN

Related Links

www.cgtn.com


CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Who:

Chicago Marines Foundation, Marines and all Service Members, Friends and Family from Chicagoland, Alderman Gilbert Villegas, Marine



What:

The Chicago Marines Foundation is coordinating a 13-mile "hump" through Chicago to remember and honor the service members, first responders and civilians killed as the result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The group will hike 13-miles, one for each service member killed in Kabul, Afghanistan last week, and to honor the tragedies of 9/11 which prompted the war that brought U.S. Troops to Afghanistan. We will provide comfort, espirit de corps, and if necessary, a shoulder to cry on for service members and Veterans hurting from the events of the past 20 years and this summer.

Where: The "hump" will begin at the Bean at Chicago's Millennium Park and end at Old Crow in Wrigleyville

Route can be found here: 9/11 and Afghanistan Memorial Hump to Remember

When:

September 11, 2021

7:30am - Program begins

7:46am - Moment of silence; time the first plane was flown into the twin towers of the World Trade Center

7:47am - Anthem and Marines Hymn

8:00am - Step-off

10:00am- Halfway point water rest station; Randolph and the Lakefront pedestrian path at flagpole (aprox. time)

1:00pm - Program ends; arrive Old Crow Wrigleyville (aprox. time)

Media Opportunities:

Interviews:

Chicago Marines Foundation President, Dana Oswald (event organizer)

(event organizer) Post 9/11 Combat Marines deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring freedom (OEF/OIF)

in support of Operation Enduring freedom (OEF/OIF) Alderman Gilbert Villegas (36th ward), Marine

Event sponsors: Sam Sanchez of Old Crow, Modelo and Andy Keefner of Constellation Brands, Marine Employees of Argonne National Laboratory, Morreale Communications, T-Shirts by Beto @ JJ Design

SOURCE Chicago Marines Foundation
Each of the 50 nonprofit organizations named Best In Classy exceeded in unlocking generosity through their fundraising efforts on the Classy platform. Their winning combination of mission-driven appeals and Classy's tools created a seamless donor path that allowed these nonprofits to raise more funds and create more impact. These nonprofits achieved recognition across the most important fundraising success indicators -- most streamlined donation process, most loyal supporters, most options to give, highest annual growth, and best donor experience.

The top honoree in each category includes:





Most Streamlined Donation Process: The University of Nebraska Foundation , whose mission is to grow relationships and resources that enable the university to change lives, uses visual storytelling, a clear goal, and an easy donation path to take action and unite their community around compelling campaigns. As a result, they see a 69% donation checkout page conversion rate.



The , whose mission is to grow relationships and resources that enable the university to change lives, uses visual storytelling, a clear goal, and an easy donation path to take action and unite their community around compelling campaigns. As a result, they see a 69% donation checkout page conversion rate. Most Loyal Supporters: Tunnel to Towers Foundation ignites donor passion with inspiring peer-to-peer campaigns that empower fundraisers. They see an 88% donor retention rate in response to their meaningful approach.Their thoughtful approach to fundraising helps them unite communities around the world to honor the sacrifice of New York City Firefighter, Stephen Siller , who laid down his life to save others on September 11, 2001 .



ignites donor passion with inspiring peer-to-peer campaigns that empower fundraisers. They see an 88% donor retention rate in response to their meaningful approach.Their thoughtful approach to fundraising helps them unite communities around the world to honor the sacrifice of New York City Firefighter, , who laid down his life to save others on . Most Options to Give: Baptist Health Foundation Jacksonville funds their mission to enhance the quality of life in their community by offering donors and supporters various ways to get involved through peer-to-peer fundraising, online ticketed events, crowdfunding, and a straightforward donation button on their Classy-powered website.



funds their mission to enhance the quality of life in their community by offering donors and supporters various ways to get involved through peer-to-peer fundraising, online ticketed events, crowdfunding, and a straightforward donation button on their Classy-powered website. Highest Annual Growth: Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer Support saw the largest leap in annual donation volume as a result of their thoughtful giving experiences to connect to new donors and steward them into loyal and recurring donors through their Classy donation page. The organization continues to scale and build the impact they have on the lives of children with cancer and their families.



saw the largest leap in annual donation volume as a result of their thoughtful giving experiences to connect to new donors and steward them into loyal and recurring donors through their Classy donation page. The organization continues to scale and build the impact they have on the lives of children with cancer and their families. Best Donor Experience: Operation Broken Silence fully utilizes Classy's campaign customization to create a beautiful backdrop for their unique story, which in turn propels more donors to take action. The experience keeps donors returning to get involved in the mission to build a global movement to empower the Sudanese people through innovative programs.

Along with acknowledging the hard work of these successful nonprofit organizations, Classy has also published its first Impact Report in adherence with its newly-minted Public Benefit Corporation status. The report details the company's stakeholder approach and measures impact throughout the last three quarters of 2020 and the first quarter of 2021. The report quantifies the resilience and adaptability of Classy's stakeholder model and highlights how together, more than 6,000 nonprofits on its platform were able to raise over $1 billion in one year, and more than $3 billion over the past decade.

Some additional highlights from the Impact Report include:

Nonprofits using Classy's platform saw an average checkout conversion rate of 23%

68.8% of Classy customers grew their recurring donation volume in the past year

Overall, Classy customers experienced a 314% increase in recurring giving subscriptions initiated

73% of Classy's staff have been granted stock, stock options, or stock equivalents

55% of Classy staff connect Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts to their intent to continue working at Classy

"Creating more impact is at the core of what we do, whether that's for our customers or as a socially conscious business ourselves," said Classy CEO Chris Himes. "At the highest level, we have architected our business model so that we are only successful when our mission-driven customers are successful. The impact formula we drive is comprehensive. This is demonstrated by the 50 Best in Classy organizations who have demonstrated exceptional success in fundraising over the past year and through all the data points you see in our inaugural impact report."

To discover more about the Best In Classy honorees and walk through their award-winning campaigns, please visit http://www.classy.org/inspire/best-in-classy. Nonprofit professionals can access Classy's free Benchmarking Assessment here to calculate how their organization's own metrics stack up against more than 4,800 nonprofits.

About Classy

Classy is a B Corp Certified Public Benefit Corporation and giving experience platform that enables nonprofits to connect supporters with the causes they care about. Based in San Diego, CA and trusted by thousands of nonprofits, from the fastest-growing nonprofits to some of the world's largest social organizations, Classy's platform provides the formats and flexibility to activate donors when and how they need to by creating more relevant connections to their causes. Since 2011, Classy has helped nonprofits mobilize and empower the world for good by helping them raise over $3 billion on its platform. Classy also hosts the Collaborative conference and the Classy Awards to spotlight the innovative work nonprofits are implementing around the globe. For more information, visit www.classy.org.

CONTACT: Krista Lamp, [email protected]

SOURCE Classy

Related Links

www.classy.org


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to latest The Insight Partners study on "Decorative Paints Market Forecast to 2028  COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis  Type (Water Based and Solvent Based) and Application (Residential and Non-Residential)," the market was valued at US$ 74,091.54 million in 2019 and is projected to reach US$ 121,531.91 million by 2028; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2020 to 2028. The report highlights key factors driving the market growth and prominent players along with their developments in the market.

Europe held the second-largest share of the decorative paints market in 2019, and it is estimated to register the highest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. The rise in the number of infrastructure projects due to the increasing investments and economic recovery is driving the European market. Construction activities in countries such as France, the UK, and Germany are further expected to contribute to the market growth. Renewed focus of European construction companies on local markets and their core businesses is likely to bolster the demand for decorative paints during the forecast period.

Get Exclusive Sample Pages of Decorative Paints Market - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis with Strategic Insights at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00015887/

Growing Demand for Water-Based Paints to Drive Decorative Paints Market in Coming Years

Water-based paints are known to benefit through better durability, low odor, minimal volatile organic compound (VOC) emission, and faster drying time. These paints can be easily applied and are easy to clean; they exhibit low risk of catching fire. Water-based paints are considered as an effective alternative to different types of paints that incorporates the use of VOCs such as hydrocarbons, which may harm the environment. Also, water-based paints are known to provide high color retention over time. These characteristics made them ideal in several residential and commercial applications. The growing focus one environment sustainability, along with strict government regulations to minimize the use of harmful substances, is triggering the demand for water-based paints. Thus, the rise in demand for water-based paints is expected to contribute to the growth of decorative paints market during the forecast period.

Decorative Paints Market: Segmental Overview

Based on type, the decorative paints market is segmented into water based and solvent based. In 2019, solvent-based paint segment accounted for more than one-third of the global decorative paints market. The solvent-based decorative paints mostly include organic compounds as solvents. These compounds provide a hard and durable finish that resists scratches and abrasions on the wall. Solvent-based decorative paints are available in a variety of options such as durable and decorative paints as well as glossy paints for indoor and outdoor uses. Based on application, the decorative paints market is segmented into residential and non-residential. The non-residential segment is anticipated to grow at a higher CAGR in the market during the forecast period. This sector includes commercial spaces such as for restaurants, factories, offices, cafes, schools, hospitals, and retail stores. Decorative paints in this sector are meant for functionality and aesthetic appeal, depending upon the business.

Download Sample PDF Brochure of Decorative Paints Market Growth Research Report at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00015887/

Decorative Paints Market: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments

Akzo Nobel N.V.; BASF SE; The Sherwin-Williams Company; Dow Inc; PPG Industries, Inc.; RPM International, Inc.; Axalta Coatings Systems; Nippon Paint; Asian Paints; and Kansai are among the well-established players in the decorative paints market.

Impact of COVID-19 on Decorative Paints Market

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the status of the chemical industry and have negatively impacted the growth of the decorative paints market. The outbreak distorted operational efficiency and disrupted the value chains due to the sudden shutdown of national and international boundaries in 2020. Construction activities across India took a massive hit due to lockdown and other restrictive measures. As per the latest update by the Statistics Ministry, the construction projects in the country are running behind schedule by an average of 3.5 years. Moreover, the cost of ~1,682 ongoing infrastructure projects has surged by USD 54 trillion. However, industrial operations in many countries are resuming gradually with governments taking precautionary measures and mandating safety measures at workplaces. They are also focusing on boosting the rate of vaccination. Thus, with the resumption of activities in several industries, including the construction industry, the demand for decorative paints is expected to rise in different regions of the world in the coming months.

Order a Copy of Decorative Paints Market Shares, Strategies and Forecasts 2021-2028 Research Report at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00015887/

Browse Related Reports:

Floor Paints Market Forecast Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Aerosol Paints Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Antimicrobial Paints Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.

Contact Us:

If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us:

Contact Person: Sameer Joshi

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +1-646-491-9876

More Research: https://www.openpr.com/news/archive/139407/The-Insight-Partners.html

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SOURCE The Insight Partners
LOS ALTOS, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Evommune, Inc., a private R&D company and innovation engine in chronic inflammation, today announced the completion of an $83 million Series A financing which included Andera Partners and LSP, who joined forces with a global syndicate of investors and existing investor, Pivotal bioVenture Partners. The financing enables Evommune to continue the research and development of transformative therapies through both industry and academic collaborations to treat patients with immune-mediated and chronic inflammatory diseases.

"We are thrilled to have continued support from Pivotal bioVenture Partners and new backing from Andera Partners, LSP, as well as other high caliber investors," said Luis Pena, president and chief executive officer of Evommune. "We know there is considerable need for more effective and safe treatments for inflammatory diseases. Our goal is to be a significant part of the solution. This financing will allow us to advance all four of the programs in our pipeline into the clinic."

Evommune was founded in 2020 by former senior leaders at Dermira and industry veterans, including Luis Pena, president and chief executive officer, Eugene A. Bauer, MD, chief medical officer and Hans Hofland, PhD, senior vice president, research. The company is using the skin as the lens to uncover new approaches for accelerating the development of vital medicines across immunology with a focus on inflammation. By utilizing a novel screening platform, Evommune has identified differentiated molecules that have a greater probability of being effective in treating patients with chronic inflammatory conditions.

"We were initially drawn to Evommune because of their stellar leadership team. This team has over three decades of success in identifying and developing innovative compounds," said Rob Hopfner, RPh, PhD, MBA, managing partner at Pivotal bioVenture Partners. "Since our initial investment, the team has continued to impress us with the identification of potentially novel compounds that could become transformative treatments for patients who are living with chronic inflammatory conditions and experiencing a reduced quality of life."

Evommune has four investigational compounds in development. Three of the compounds stem from an exclusive agreement with Dermira, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eli Lilly and Company and include IRAK4/TrkA, a small molecule that broadly inhibits innate inflammation; RORt, a small molecule addressing Th17 mediated inflammation; and MRGPRX2, a small molecule to treat chronic pruritus (itch). The fourth compound is a PKC theta inhibitor which could have broad utility across a spectrum of immune-mediated, inflammatory diseases and came to Evommune through an exclusive partnership with Axcelead Drug Discovery Partners, Inc., a Japan-based, first solution provider for entire drug discovery research.

About Evommune, Inc.

Evommune is a private R&D company and innovation engine in chronic inflammation. The company is taking a tissue-based approach to advance insights and accelerate the development of transformative medicines in inflammatory diseases. Evommune was founded in 2020 by a successful and experienced leadership team focused on building a robust pipeline of unique therapies that help patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. The company is headquartered in Los Altos, Calif. For more information, please visit Evommune.com.

Media & Investor Contact:

Sheryl Seapy

949-903-4750

[email protected]

SOURCE Evommune, Inc.
WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fannie Mae (OTCQB: FNMA) today announced its latest sale of non-performing loans as part of the company's ongoing effort to reduce the size of its retained mortgage portfolio, including the company's eighteenth Community Impact Pool (CIP). CIPs are typically smaller pools of loans that are geographically focused and marketed to encourage participation by non-profit organizations, minority- and women-owned businesses (MWOBs), and smaller investors.

The four larger pools include approximately 11,400 loans totaling $1.7 billion in unpaid principal balance (UPB), and the CIP contains approximately 140 loans totaling $45.2 million in UPB. The CIP consists of loans geographically located in the New York area. All pools are available for purchase by qualified bidders. This sale of non-performing loans is being marketed in collaboration with BofA Securities, Inc. and First Financial Network, Inc. as advisors.

Bids are due on the four larger pools on October 5, 2021 and on the CIP on October 19, 2021.

Among other elements, terms of Fannie Mae's non-performing loan transactions require the buyer of the non-performing loans to pursue loss mitigation options designed to be sustainable for borrowers. All purchasers are required to honor any approved or in-process loss mitigation efforts at the time of sale, including forbearance arrangements and loan modifications. In addition, purchasers must offer delinquent borrowers a waterfall of loss mitigation options, including loan modifications, which may include principal forgiveness, prior to initiating foreclosure on any loan. In the event a foreclosure cannot be prevented, the owner of the loan must market the property to owner-occupants and non-profits before offering it to investors, similar to Fannie Mae's FirstLook program.

Interested bidders are invited to register for future announcements, training, and other information here. Fannie Mae will also post information about specific pools available for purchase on that page.

About Fannie Mae

Fannie Mae helps make the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage and affordable rental housing possible for millions of people in America. We partner with lenders to create housing opportunities for families across the country. We are driving positive changes in housing finance to make the home buying process easier, while reducing costs and risk. To learn more, visit: fanniemae.com | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Blog

Fannie Mae Newsroom

https://www.fanniemae.com/news

Photo of Fannie Mae

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Fannie Mae Resource Center

1-800-2FANNIE

SOURCE Fannie Mae

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ATLANTA and DETROIT, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- LexisNexis Risk Solutions and Ford Motor Company today announced they have entered into a strategic agreement so that Ford connected vehicle data can be available to U.S. auto insurers via the LexisNexis Telematics Exchange. Ford and Lincoln customers with an eligible 2020 model year or newer vehicle can opt in to participate in usage-based insurance (UBI) programs, which has the potential to save customers money through more personalized insurance offerings.

"We're excited about this agreement with Ford," said Adam Hudson, vice president and general manager, U.S. Connected Car, LexisNexis Risk Solutions. "As a trusted steward of data for more than 20 years, LexisNexis Risk Solutions continues to bring the insurance and automotive industries together with market-leading solutions to provide consumers with a better experience during insurance shopping and renewal. We want to continue delivering on our mission of providing unparalleled driving-related insights and benefits to insurers, automakers and their drivers."

"Ford owners who opt-in to usage-based insurance have the potential to reduce their total cost of vehicle ownership through more personalized insurance offerings and be rewarded for good driving habits," said Kari Novatney, General Manager, Connectivity Strategy & Partnerships, Ford Motor Company. "LexisNexis Risk Solutions is helping Ford customers more easily pursue the advantages of their vehicle's connectivity for potential insurance benefits."

LexisNexis Risk Solutions ingests and normalizes connected car data through its data platform, the LexisNexis Telematics Exchange, to create driving behavior insights for U.S. insurance carriers to use within their existing auto insurance workflows. This enables insurers to more accurately segment risk, while providing consumers the opportunity to reduce the overall cost of vehicle ownership by taking advantage of good driving behavior. By leveraging data sourced through the Telematics Exchange, insurers can have an easier path to access driving behavior data for point of quote, underwriting and renewal, whether or not they have an existing insurer-led UBI program.

LexisNexis Risk Solutions works with 95 of the top 100 U.S. auto insurers. Its U.S. Connected Car business offers telematics solutions and advanced analytics, including LexisNexis Telematics OnDemand and its next-generation LexisNexis Drive Metrics scores, which allow insurers to seamlessly leverage driving behavior insights during the insurance shopping process at the point of quote, as well as at underwriting and renewal. Click here for more information on LexisNexis Telematics.

Click here for more information on LexisNexis data solutions for automakers.

About LexisNexis Risk Solutions

LexisNexis Risk Solutions harnesses the power of data and advanced analytics to provide insights that help businesses and governmental entities reduce risk and improve decisions to benefit people around the globe. We provide data and technology solutions for a wide range of industries including insurance, financial services, healthcare and government. Headquartered in metro Atlanta, Georgia, we have offices throughout the world and are part of RELX (LSE: REL/NYSE: RELX), a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. For more information, please visit www.risk.lexisnexis.com and www.relx.com .

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company's Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of connected, increasingly electrified passenger and commercial vehicles: Ford trucks, utility vehicles, vans and cars, and Lincoln luxury vehicles. The company is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, connected vehicle services and mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 186,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.

Media Contacts:

Regina Haas

LexisNexis Risk Solutions

Phone: +1.678.896.1463

[email protected]

Dean Carney

Brodeur Partners for LexisNexis Risk Solutions

Phone: +1.646.746.5607

[email protected]

Martin Gunsberg

Ford Motor Company

Phone: +1.313.316.5319

[email protected]

SOURCE LexisNexis Risk Solutions

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GLENDALE, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Front Porch, a California-based not-for-profit provider of aging services, has successfully refinanced the majority of its debt, reducing its aggregate average debt service by more than $5 million annually. The Series A and Series B bonds sold for $305,565,000 and are exempt from federal and state income tax.

The organization presented its Series 2021 bonds to market on August 19th with more than 50 investors participating. Prior to going to market, Front Porch received an A rating from Fitch and an A- rating from S & P, with both rating agencies affirming a stable outlook.

By refinancing the combined debt, Front Porch has been able to streamline its debt profile, achieve cost savings, lock in long term committed capital, and level overall aggregate debt service, according to Diana Jamison, Chief Capital Strategy Officer.

"Like most successful endeavors, it was through the hard work, dedication and commitment from multiple team members that we achieved this tremendous outcome," noted Ed Salvador, Chief Financial Officer.

About Front Porch

Front Porch is a not-for-profit system that supports 53 communities, 7,500 residents, and more than 6,000 participants in programs and services nationwide. Our mission is to inspire and build community, cultivating meaningful relationships and experiences that respond creatively to changing needs. Learn more at frontporch.net.

SOURCE Front Porch
DUBLIN, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Airport Robots Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis by Application (Landside/Valet Parking and Terminal)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

According to the new research report titled "Airport Robots Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis," the market is expected to reach US$ 2,108.29 million by 2028, registering a CAGR of 22.4% from 2021 to 2028.



With the rise in real and perceived threats to the national security, continuous efforts are being taken to come up with innovative active interrogation approaches to identify these threats. The most instant perceived threats and their essential materials comprise conventional explosives, weapons, chemical agents, and contraband. With an intent to prevent uncertain events, authorities worldwide are actively focusing on the deployment of advanced systems, including robots, to strengthen security at airports. The robots used for security application at airports are integrated with features such as facial recognition systems, sensors, and cameras to measure pulse rate remotely, which allows them to detect suspicious persons, currencies, weapons and explosives, abandoned objects, and other illicit material without disturbing the operations or flow of passengers at airports. Furthermore, the governments of various countries are investing in the development of their transport infrastructure, including building of new airports. For instance, the Chinese government plans to construct additional 215 airports by 2035. Furthermore, the Indian government plans to build 100 new airports across the country by 2024.



The global airport robots market is segmented by application. Based on application, the market is segmented into landside/valet parking and terminal. The terminal segment dominated the market in 2020. The terminal segment is sub-segmented into airport security and cleaning, boarding pass scanning, airport baggage system, and passenger guidance. The airport security and cleaning segment led the market in 2020.

The airport robots market is experiencing significant growth owing to increasing importance for security at airports. However, the high cost of robots hampers their adoption, especially at small airports in developing or under-developed countries. Meanwhile, the number of air passengers worldwide has increased due to surge in business travel and leisure travel. With the growing footfall at airports, the airport authorities are investing significantly in advance technologies, including robotics, for streamlining their operations. According to a survey conducted by the Air Transport IT Insights, ~32% of airports in the world are in the favor of increasing robotics involvement in their operations.



Various big construction projects, including airport modification and expansion were halted due to COVID-19, specifically in countries such as the US and Canada. For instance, Raleigh-Durham International Airport was on pace to expand its Terminal 1 from nine gates to as many as 22 and proceed with a new security checkpoint and a consolidated rental car facility. The projected expansion was halted due to the pandemic. Similarly, an infrastructure project at Vancouver International Airport has been terminated due to the COVID-19 crisis. Due to stoppage in such big project (expanded till quarter 3 of 2020), airport robots manufacturers lost several potential clients/projects, which impacted their overall cash flow. The impact was not only from the demand side, but also from the supply side. As manufacturing facilities in the region were not operational for months, the supply chain was disrupted and the procurement of raw material was interrupted. Due to this, OEMs saw prominent challenges in keeping up with the quarterly revenue. Airports also witnessed the importance of robots and other machinery because of reduction of human touch. Moreover, the analysis states that the FY2021 would bring additional demand for airport robots, as airport development projects resume and airport authorities prepare to focus significantly on health and safety of passengers.



Reasons to Buy

Save and reduce time carrying out entry-level research by identifying the growth, size, leading players and segments in the global airport robots market.

Highlights key business priorities in order to assist companies to realign their business strategies.

The key findings and recommendations highlight crucial progressive industry trends in the global airport robots market, thereby allowing players across the value chain to develop effective long-term strategies.

Develop/modify business expansion plans by using substantial growth offering developed and emerging markets.

Scrutinize in-depth global market trends and outlook coupled with the factors driving the market, as well as those hindering it.

Enhance the decision-making process by understanding the strategies that underpin commercial interest with respect to client products, segmentation, pricing and distribution.

Key Topics Covered:



1. Introduction



2. Key Takeaways

3. Research Methodology

4. Airport Robots Market Landscape

4.1 Market Overview

4.2 Porter's Five Forces Analysis

4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Buyers

4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants

4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes

4.2.5 Competitive Rivalry

4.3 Ecosystem Analysis

4.4 Expert Opinion

5. Airport Robots Market - Key Market Dynamics

5.1 Key Market Drivers

5.1.1 Construction of New Airports and Exigency for Robust Airport Security

5.1.2 Increase in Demand for Advanced Robots

5.2 Key Market Restraints

5.2.1 Cost Associated with Procuring and Maintaining Advanced Robots

5.3 Key Market Opportunities

5.3.1 High Potential in Developing Countries

5.4 Future Trends

5.4.1 Enhanced Sanitation Programs and Procedures at Airports

5.5 Impact Analysis of Drivers and Restraints

6. Airport Robots - Global Market Analysis

6.1 Global Airport Robots Market Overview

6.2 Global Airport Robots Market Revenue Forecast and Analysis

6.3 Market Positioning - Five Key Players

7. Airport Robots Market Revenue and Forecast to 2028 - Application

7.1 Overview

7.2 Airport Robots Market, By Application (2020 And 2028)

7.3 Landside/Valet Parking

7.3.1 Overview

7.3.2 Landside/Valet Parking: Airport Robots Market Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

7.4 Terminal

7.4.1 Overview

7.4.2 Terminal: Airport Robots Market Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

7.4.3 Airport Security and Cleaning

7.4.3.1 Overview

7.4.3.2 Airport Security and Cleaning: Airport Robots Market - Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

7.4.4 Boarding Pass Scanning

7.4.4.1 Overview

7.4.4.2 Boarding Pass Scanning: Airport Robots Market - Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

7.4.5 Baggage Carrying

7.4.5.1 Overview

7.4.5.2 Airport Baggage System: Airport Robots Market - Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

7.4.6 Passenger Guidance

7.4.6.1 Overview

7.4.6.2 Passenger Guidance: Airport Robots Market - Revenue and Forecast to 2028 (US$ Million)

8. Airport Robots Market - Geographic Analysis

9. Airport Robots Market - COVID-19 Impact Analysis

9.1 North America

9.2 Europe

9.3 Asia Pacific

9.4 Middle East and Africa

9.5 South America

10. Industry Landscape

10.1 Overview

10.2 Market Initiative

10.3 New Product Development

11. Company Profiles

11.1 Yujin Robot Co., Ltd.

11.1.1 Key Facts

11.1.2 Business Description

11.1.3 Products and Services

11.1.4 Financial Overview

11.1.5 SWOT Analysis

11.1.6 Key Developments

11.2 Avidbots Corp.

11.2.1 Key Facts

11.2.2 Business Description

11.2.3 Products and Services

11.2.4 Financial Overview

11.2.5 SWOT Analysis

11.2.6 Key Developments

11.3 Cyberdyne Inc.

11.3.1 Key Facts

11.3.2 Business Description

11.3.3 Products and Services

11.3.4 Financial Overview

11.3.5 SWOT Analysis

11.3.6 Key Developments

11.4 SoftBank Robotics

11.4.1 Key Facts

11.4.2 Business Description

11.4.3 Products and Services

11.4.4 Financial Overview

11.4.5 SWOT Analysis

11.4.6 Key Developments

11.5 Stanley Robotics SAS

11.5.1 Key Facts

11.5.2 Business Description

11.5.3 Products and Services

11.5.4 Financial Overview

11.5.5 SWOT Analysis

11.5.6 Key Developments

11.6 SITA

11.6.1 Key Facts

11.6.2 Business Description

11.6.3 Products and Services

11.6.4 Financial Overview

11.6.5 SWOT Analysis

11.6.6 Key Developments

11.7 ABB Ltd.

11.7.1 Key Facts

11.7.2 Business Description

11.7.3 Products and Services

11.7.4 Financial Overview

11.7.5 SWOT Analysis

11.7.6 Key Developments

11.8 ECA Group

11.8.1 Key Facts

11.8.2 Business Description

11.8.3 Products and Services

11.8.4 Financial Overview

11.8.5 SWOT Analysis

11.8.6 Key Developments

11.9 LG Electronics

11.9.1 Key Facts

11.9.2 Business Description

11.9.3 Products and Services

11.9.4 Financial Overview

11.9.5 SWOT Analysis

11.9.6 Key Developments

11.10 UVD Robots

11.10.1 Key Facts

11.10.2 Business Description

11.10.3 Products and Services

11.10.4 Financial Overview

11.10.5 SWOT Analysis

11.10.6 Key Developments

12. Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/3fx8hw

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Research and Markets

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SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Sept. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Green Hills Software announced the selection of the INTEGRITY-178 tuMP real-time operating system (RTOS) by Raytheon Intelligence & Space (RI&S) for their offering of the Military Global Positioning System User Equipment (MGUE) Increment (Inc) 2 Miniature Serial Interface (MSI) with Next-Generation Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). RI&S is developing one MSI card for aviation and maritime systems and another MSI card for ground-based systems, and INTEGRITY-178 tuMP will be used in both solutions running on the Arm processor-based ASIC. RI&S selected the INTEGRITY-178 tuMP RTOS based on its use in previous programs and for its ability to simultaneously meet both safety and security requirements. Those requirements included the highest DO-178C design assurance level (DAL A) and the NSA-defined separation kernel protection profile (SKPP) for "high robustness" security.

The Military GPS User Equipment is the GPS receiver for the modernized GPS Enterprise, and it is capable of receiving military code (M-Code) from newer satellites, including GPS-III. M-Code is a more robust, jam-resistant form of GPS that also uses more modern and flexible encryption methods to make it resistant to spoofing. The MGUE Inc 2 MSI program is developing a smaller M-Code ASIC and receiver card that consumes less power while increasing functionality, security and performance. The smaller card will enable use in handheld and dismounted applications as well as mounted, maritime and aviation platforms. The Government Accountability Office estimates that approximately 700 different types of weapon systems will ultimately require M-Code cards and M-Code-capable receivers, including ships, aircraft, ground vehicles, munitions, and handheld devices. RI&S was one of three companies awarded by the U.S. Space Force's Space Systems Command for the MGUE Inc 2 MSI with Next-Generation ASIC program.

"Green Hills Software has a long history of working with RI&S on GPS & navigation systems, and we are pleased to be part of their MSI with Next Generation ASIC solution," said Dan O'Dowd, founder and CEO of Green Hills Software. "Airborne GPS solutions require both safety and security, and the INTEGRITY-178 RTOS has an unrivaled pedigree in the combination of certified high-robustness security with certified DO-178C safety assurance."

The INTEGRITY-178 tuMP high-assurance RTOS from Green Hills Software is uniquely designed to meet both DO-178C DAL A airborne safety requirements and the NSA-defined Separation Kernel Protection Profile. INTEGRITY-178 is the only commercial operating system ever certified to the SKPP, and that certification was done by the National Information Assurance Partnership to Common Criteria EAL 6+ and "High Robustness." Beyond the separation kernel, INTEGRITY-178 tuMP provides a complete set of APIs for use by multi-level security applications within a secure partition, e.g., an MLS guard, which is a fundamental requirement in a cross-domain system. INTEGRITY-178 tuMP is also the first and only RTOS to be part of a cross-domain solution certification to NSA's new "Raise the Bar" initiative. INTEGRITY-178 was the first commercial RTOS approved as complying with DO-178B Level A objectives, and INTEGRITY-178 tuMP is the only RTOS to be part of a multicore certification to DO-178C and CAST-32A multicore objectives. INTEGRITY-178 tuMP directly supports a Modular Open Systems Approach, and it was the first RTOS to be certified conformant to the FACE Technical Standard, edition 3.0.

About Green Hills Software

Founded in 1982, Green Hills Software is the worldwide leader in embedded safety and security. In 2008, the Green Hills INTEGRITY-178 RTOS was the first and only operating system to be certified by NIAP (National Information Assurance Partnership comprised of NSA & NIST) to EAL 6+, High Robustness, the highest level of security ever achieved for any software product. Our open architecture, integrated development solutions address deeply embedded, safety/security and high-reliability applications for the military/avionics, medical, industrial, automotive, networking, consumer and other markets that demand industry-certified solutions. Green Hills Software is headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA, with European headquarters in the United Kingdom. Visit Green Hills Software at www.ghs.com.

Green Hills, the Green Hills logo, INTEGRITY and tuMP are trademarks or registered trademarks of Green Hills Software, in the U.S. and/or internationally. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE Green Hills Software

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GWANGJU, South Korea, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Thanks to our understanding of molecular biology, we have made tremendous progress in medicine, with scientists shedding light on the molecular mechanisms of several diseases. However, despite knowing how these diseases occur and develop within cells, some remain untreatable due to the inability of currently available drugs to reach their targets. One such example of an unreachable drug target is "proteinprotein interactions (PPIs)" that occur inside cells. Most drugs cannot interfere with PPIs due to their small sizes, even if they can penetrate the cell membrane. On the other hand, antibody proteins can be engineered to block virtually any PPI but cannot access the inside of cells. So, are there any other alternatives for targeting intracellular PPIs?

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology

Right now, the answer is most definitely "maybe." One promising approach might involve using macrocyclic peptideschains of amino acids that form a ring-like structure. In particular, a peptide called "Cyclosporin A" (CsA) has a peculiar property called "chameleonicity" that helps it cross cell membranes. Put simply, CsA can change its molecular conformation depending on its surroundings, which helps it permeate through the lipid bilayer of cellular membrane. While CsA could certainly be used as a template for designing membrane-permeable drugs, it has some disadvantages. First, it is costly and tedious to synthesize in large quantities because of an unusual fungal amino acid called MeBmt. Second, it causes various unwanted pharmacological side effects, such as immunosuppression.

Considering these limitations, a team of scientists led by Professor Jiwon Seo from the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST) in Korea turned their attention to "Cyclosporin O" (CsO), a similar yet less-studied macrocyclic peptide without similar problems. In their latest study published in the Journal of Medical Chemistry, the team investigated various aspects of CsO and its derivatives and compared them with CsA. This included testing for an optimized synthesis method, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy characterizations, molecular dynamics simulations, cell permeability assessments, and in vitro and in vivo tests. "The main purpose of our study was to establish the molecular conformationmembrane permeability relationship of CsO and its derivatives compared to that of CsA as well as evaluate its potential utility as a scaffold for peptide drug designs," explains Dr. Seo. Their paper was made available online on 7 June 2021 and was published in Volume 64 Issue 12 of the journal on 24 June 2021.

Overall, the findings of this study add a piece to the puzzle of designing cell membrane-permeable drugs with macrocyclic peptides, such as CsO, playing a potential leading role. "Once we establish a more solid understanding of fundamental structureproperty relationships, we envision that macrocyclic peptides could be used to tackle currently 'undruggable' targets, leading to new treatments for cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, metabolic diseases, and so on," concludes an optimistic Dr. Seo.

For the sake of anyone dealing with such maladies, let us hope their vision materializes soon!

Reference

Title of original paper: Interplay among Conformation, Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonds, and Chameleonicity in the Membrane Permeability and Cyclophilin A Binding of Macrocyclic Peptide Cyclosporin O Derivatives

Journal: Journal of Medical Chemistry

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.1c00211

Corresponding authors emails:

[email protected] (C-J Park),

[email protected] (K-R Lee),

[email protected] (J-H Choi),

[email protected] (J Seo)

About the Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology (GIST)

Website: http://www.gist.ac.kr/

Media Contact

Seulhye Kim

82 62 715 6253

[email protected]

SOURCE Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
Bridging the gap between the science of quantum computing and the development of an industry surrounding it, QCE21, also known as Quantum Week, will focus on key quantum computing topics covering research, practice, applications, education, and training.

"We were very pleased with the success from the inaugural Quantum Week 2020, which included over 800 people from 45 countries and 225 companies attended the premier event which delivered 270+ hours of programming on quantum computing and engineering," said Hausi Muller, General Chair QCE21 and Co-Chair IEEE Quantum Initiative. "Through continued participation from our world-class sponsors, volunteers, speakers, authors, and the international quantum community, we look forward to building on our solid foundation for the future."

QCE21's keynote speakers include the following quantum leaders:

Alan Baratz  D-Wave Systems, President & CEO

 D-Wave Systems, President & CEO James S. Clarke  Intel Labs, Director of Quantum Hardware

 Intel Labs, Director of Quantum Hardware David J. Dean  Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Director Quantum Science Center

 Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Director Quantum Science Center Jay Gambetta  IBM Quantum, IBM Fellow & VP Quantum Computing

 IBM Quantum, IBM Fellow & VP Quantum Computing Sonika Johri  IonQ, Senior Quantum Applications Research Scientist

 IonQ, Senior Quantum Applications Research Scientist Anthony Megrant  Google Quantum AI, Lead Research Scientist

 Google Quantum AI, Lead Research Scientist Prineha Narang  Harvard University & Aliro Quantum, Professor & CTO

& Aliro Quantum, Professor & CTO Brian Neyenhuis  Honeywell Quantum Solutions, Commercial Operations Leader

 Honeywell Quantum Solutions, Commercial Operations Leader Urbasi Sinha  Raman Research Institute, Bangalore , Professor

, Professor Krista Svore  Microsoft, General Manager Quantum Systems

The QCE21 Registration Package provides Virtual Access to IEEE Quantum Week Oct 17-22, 2021 as well as On-Demand Access to all recorded events until the end of December 2021. The QCE21 live event will take place during Mountain Daylight Time (MDT).

Visit IEEE QCE21 to download the advance conference program, see the full list of speakers and abstracts, and view all event news including sponsors and exhibitors.

Register here to be a part of IEEE Quantum Week 2021  early registration ends 20 September.

About the IEEE Computer Society

The IEEE Computer Society is the world's home for computer science, engineering, and technology. A global leader in providing access to computer science research, analysis, and information, the IEEE Computer Society offers a comprehensive array of unmatched products, services, and opportunities for individuals at all stages of their professional career. Known as the premier organization that empowers the people who drive technology, the IEEE Computer Society offers international conferences, peer-reviewed publications, a unique digital library, and training programs.

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The IEEE Communications Society promotes technological innovation and fosters creation and sharing of information among the global technical community. The Society provides services to members for their technical and professional advancement and forums for technical exchanges among professionals in academia, industry, and public institutions.

About the IEEE Council on Superconductivity

The IEEE Council on Superconductivity and its activities and programs cover the science and technology of superconductors and their applications, including materials and their applications for electronics, magnetics, and power systems, where the superconductor properties are central to the application.

IEEE Electron Device Society (EDS)

The IEEE Electron Device Society fosters professional growth of its members by satisfying their needs for easy access to and exchange of technical information, publishing, education, and technical recognition and enhancing public visibility in the field of Electron Devices. The IEEE EDS promotes excellence in the field of electron devices for the benefit of humanity The EDS field-of-interest includes all electron and ion based devices, in their classical or quantum states, using environments and materials in their lowest to highest conducting phase, in simple or engineered assembly, interacting with and delivering photo-electronic, electro-magnetic, electromechanical, electro-thermal, and bio-electronic signals.

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The IEEE Electronics Packaging Society is the leading international forum for scientists and engineers engaged in the research, design, and development of revolutionary advances in microsystems packaging and manufacturing.

About the IEEE Future Directions Quantum Initiative

IEEE Quantum is an IEEE Future Directions initiative launched in 2019 that serves as IEEE's leading community for all projects and activities on quantum technologies. IEEE Quantum is supported by leadership and representation across IEEE Societies and OUs. The initiative addresses the current landscape of quantum technologies, identifies challenges and opportunities, leverages, and collaborates with existing initiatives, and engages the quantum community at large.

About the IEEE Photonics Society

The IEEE Photonics Society forms the hub of a vibrant technical community of more than 100,000 professionals dedicated to transforming breakthroughs in quantum physics into the devices, systems, and products to revolutionize our daily lives. From ubiquitous and inexpensive global communications via fiber optics, to lasers for medical and other applications, to flat-screen displays, to photovoltaic devices for solar energy, to LEDs for energy-efficient illumination, there are myriad examples of the Society's impact on the world around us.

IEEE Signal Processing Society (SPS)

The IEEE Signal Processing Society is an international organization whose purpose is to: advance and disseminate state-of-the-art scientific information and resources; educate the signal processing community; and provide a venue for people to interact and exchange ideas. The Signal Processing Society is a dynamic organization that is the preeminent source of signal processing information and resources to a global community. We do this by: being a one-stop source of signal processing resources; providing a variety of high-quality resources to a variety of users in formats customized to their interests; adapting to a rapidly changing technical community; and being intimately involved in the education of signal processing professionals at all levels.

About the IEEE Technology and Engineering Management Society

IEEE TEMS encompasses the management sciences and practices required for defining, implementing, and managing engineering and technology. Specific topics of interest include, but are not limited to: technology policy development, assessment, and transfer; research; product design and development; manufacturing operations; innovation and entrepreneurship; program and project management; strategy; education and training; organizational development and human behavior; transitioning to management; and the socioeconomic impact of engineering and technology management.

SOURCE IEEE Computer Society

Related Links

www.computer.org


MEMPHIS, Tenn., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Indigo Ag, a company leveraging nature and technology to unlock economic and environmental progress in agriculture, today announced the disbursement of initial payments to the inaugural cohort of Carbon by Indigo participants. The 267 paid growers are the first to implement on-farm practice changes and provide the data required to ensure the rigorous measurement and validation of resulting emissions reduction and removals according to registry protocols. In doing so, they have helped pave a path for the scaled production of carbon credits as a new income stream for farmers, demonstrating the emerging market's potential as a real and meaningful instrument for mitigating the drivers of climate change.

Carbon by Indigo is the first carbon farming program to provide outcomes-based, direct payments to growers at scale  a milestone enabled by the successful filing of a monitoring plan detailing the data and methods used to generate the program's inaugural crop. Final credit calculations, generated and made public upon completion of a rigorous third-party verification process currently underway according to the Climate Action Reserve's "Soil Enrichment Protocol," will result in the world's first crop of high-quality, registry-issued agricultural carbon credits generated at scale this Spring 2022.

With plans for expanded eligibility to a total of 28 states also announced today, 78% of US cropland is now poised to respond to mounting demand for high-quality credits which has already resulted in a credit price increase of 35% in the first year of the program. Now, beginning with the 2022 crop year, farmers across Wisconsin, Michigan, Alabama, Vermont, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia are also eligible to begin farming carbon with the end-to-end support of Indigo's farmer-first program.

"For farmers to participate in the ag carbon market with confidence, they need trust that all partners joining them on that journey  from their agronomic advisors through credit buyers  want to see them come out on top," said Chris Harbourt, Global Head of Carbon at Indigo Ag. "Our program brings together exactly those partners to ensure farmers have choices that maximize upside in their participation. Backed by confidence in our scientifically rigorous quantification methods and the development of a committed buyer network, these initial payments are just the beginning as they represent progress toward the inaugural carbon crop year and an important milestone in this work."

The cohort's carbon farming efforts represent a wide range of experience adopting beneficial practice changes in the 2019 and 2020 crop years. Overall participation spanned 19 states, included 15 unique crop types and over 50 unique practice change combinations, and varied from implementation on just one field to practice change on 85. The initial payments represent an advance on the program's expected first-year vesting (50%). Farmers will receive the remainder of these payments in subsequent years, in addition to further income generated as a result of their ongoing beneficial farming efforts including through continuation of practices, additional practice adoption, or expanded enrolled acreage in future crop years.

"There's always uncertainty with any practice change. It can be daunting to try a new practice that you're not very familiar with. But in farming, if you're not moving forward, you're falling behind. Indigo has given us the opportunity and support to improve our land and our income," said Christopher Lehe of Brookston, Indiana, who counts nearly four thousand acres currently enrolled in the program. "As the carbon credit market expands, our income can keep growing with increasing carbon prices and our increasing carbon impact, because we're not just getting paid for our practice changes. We're getting paid top dollar for what we're accomplishing. We're only getting started, and the income potential is a huge incentive for us to expand these practices."

Since Indigo first launched its Carbon by Indigo program in 2019, recognition of the economic and environmental benefits that techniques such as min-tillage, nitrogen efficiency, and cover cropping present has increased dramatically. Likewise, interest by and support for carbon farmers has also grown. Today, Carbon by Indigo proudly represents over 3.3 million participating acres, a cohort of 14 leading organizations committed to purchasing issued credits, and recently announced industry collaborations with Corteva and Growmark to further support farmers in these efforts.

To learn more about Carbon by Indigo, click here.

ABOUT INDIGO AG

Indigo Ag improves grower profitability, environmental sustainability, and consumer health through the use of nature-based and digital technologies. The company's core offerings  Biologicals, Carbon, Marketplace, and Transport  integrate across the supply chain to optimize how the world's most impactful crops are produced, sourced, and distributed. Founded in 2014 with a mission of harnessing nature to help farmers sustainably feed the planet, today the company's technology connects stakeholders across the agricultural ecosystem to unlock sustainability and profitability benefits for all. Indigo Ag is headquartered in Boston, MA, with additional offices in Memphis, TN; Research Triangle Park, NC; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Basel, Switzerland.

SOURCE Indigo Ag

Related Links

http://www.indigoag.com/


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In support of National Suicide Prevention Month, World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10th), and as many young adults re-enter the classroom and workplace, Seize the Awkward is launching a partnership initiative to equip young people with the resources and encouragement to reach out to a friend about mental health. A joint effort between the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, The Jed Foundation (JED), the Ad Council, and creative agency Droga5, the national award-winning campaign informs teens and young adults of the importance of supporting the mental well-being of themselves and their friends.

Throughout the past year, the pandemic has been linked to significant mental health challenges among young adults. According to a 2020 American Psychological Association survey, 34% of respondents between the ages of 18-23 reported that their mental health had worsened compared with before the COVID-19 pandemic. This percentage was highest among 18-23-year-olds, across all other age groups surveyed.1 Furthermore, a June 2020 CDC survey also found that younger U.S. adults reported worse mental health outcomes and increased substance abuse during the pandemic.2

Seize the Awkward will engage creators throughout the month of September to develop and share campaign-oriented content and messaging across their social media platforms. Creators will provide tips to help 16-24-year-olds identify important signs to help a friend who may be struggling, offer ways to reach out and start a conversation, and tools to follow up.

"The pandemic continues to place an immense strain on the mental health and well-being of many, especially young adults. Normalizing mental health conversations and offering young people tangible support begins with an open and transparent dialogue," said Heidi Arthur, chief campaign development officer at the Ad Council. "We're excited to partner with such talented creators who are eagerly leveraging their voices to start the conversation."

Young adulthood is a critical time in a person's life that may bring forth numerous life changes ultimately causing great amounts of stress. From leaving high school or beginning college, moving away from home, or entering the workplace, it's a period where mental health struggles frequently emerge. As both the physical and economic fallout of COVID-19 continues to impact many  including young people who may be facing hardships such as unemployment  increased feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, and fear during this time of transition are likely significant.

"As the public health crisis continues, it's sustained a level of uncertainty, distress, and anxiety for many  all of which can have lasting effects on mental health and wellness," said Stephanie Rogers, senior VP, communications & marketing at AFSP. "We're honored to work alongside Instagram and TikTok influencers and creators and encourage everyone to reach out to the young adults in their lives as they navigate this unprecedented time."

Spanning the entire month Anna Wannquist, Donovan Beck, Jamie Grace, Maleah Whitten, Phillip Vu, Pink Sweat$, Sedona Prince, and Tessa Violet will create original content in support of Seize the Awkward on their channels.

"Over the past year and half, teens and young adults have experienced additional stressors and mental health challenges. As they now return to school, it is important that our schools and communities are prepared to help support their mental health," said John MacPhee, CEO of The Jed Foundation. "We're thrilled to be partnering with Instagram and TikTok stars on our Seize the Awkward campaign to help educate more young people around how to notice if a friend may be struggling and how to have conversations with each other about mental health."

During the month of September, the following partners will also provide significant exposure for Seize the Awkward on their platforms:

Initiative

As part of IPG, Initiative, who has been working pro-bono on the campaign since its inception has conducted outreach to media partners relevant to the Seize the Awkward audience to amplify existing campaign assets through donated media support.





As part of IPG, Initiative, who has been working pro-bono on the campaign since its inception has conducted outreach to media partners relevant to the audience to amplify existing campaign assets through donated media support. Instagram

Through the duration of the month, Instagram will be providing the campaign with significant donated media support.





Through the duration of the month, Instagram will be providing the campaign with significant donated media support. Snap Inc.

Snapchat is supporting the campaign with significant media support, including a Seize the Awkward Snapchat filter.





Snapchat is supporting the campaign with significant media support, including a Snapchat filter. TikTok

The leading destination for short-form mobile video, TikTok is providing donated support to the campaign throughout September and amplifying Seize the Awkward video content on their in-app resource hub.

Since its launch in January 2018, Seize the Awkward has garnered 52M million video views and over 2.1M sessions on SeizeTheAwkward.org, where visitors can explore resources and tools to help them start a conversation with a friend around mental health. The campaign also received the 2020 Shorty Award for Best Use of a Spokesperson for its partnership with musician Billie Eilish. To learn more about the campaign, visit SeizeTheAwkward.org and @SeizeTheAwkward on Instagram. To get immediate, free support 24/7, call 1-800-273-8255 or text "SEIZE" to 741741.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that's smart about mental health through education and community programs, develops suicide prevention through research and advocacy, and provides support for those affected by suicide. Led by CEO Robert Gebbia and headquartered in New York, and with a public policy office in Washington, D.C., AFSP has local chapters in all 50 states with programs and events nationwide. Learn more about AFSP in its latest Annual Report, and join the conversation on suicide prevention by following AFSP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

The Jed Foundation (JED)

JED is a nonprofit that exists to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for our nation's teens and young adults. We're partnering with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse and suicide prevention programs and systems. We're equipping teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. We're encouraging community awareness, understanding and action for young adult mental health. Learn more at jedfoundation.org.

Check out our programs including: JED Campus (jedcampus.org), Set to Go (settogo.org), ULifeline (ulifeline.org), Half of Us (halfofus.com) and Love is Louder (loveislouder.com).

Connect with JED: Email | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

The Ad Council

The Ad Council is where creativity and causes converge. The non-profit organization brings together the most creative minds in advertising, media, technology and marketing to address many of the nation's most important causes. The Ad Council has created many of the most iconic campaigns in advertising history. Friends Don't Let Friends Drive Drunk. Smokey Bear. Love Has No Labels.

The Ad Council's innovative social good campaigns raise awareness, inspire action and save lives. To learn more, visit AdCouncil.org, follow the Ad Council's communities on Facebook and Twitter, and view the creative on YouTube.

1 American Psychological Association (2020). Stress in America 2020: A National Mental Health Crisis. Available at: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/sia-mental-health-crisis.pdf

2 CDC: Mental Health, Substance Use and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic  United States, June 24-30, 2020. Available at: cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6932a1.htm

SOURCE The Ad Council

Related Links

http://www.adcouncil.org


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Intelligent Artifacts, a leading provider of machine intelligence solutions for mission and safety-critical systems, today announced Mike Edwards as their new Chief Growth Officer. Mr. Edwards brings extensive DOD and government expertise to the startup, having held leadership roles within the US Air Force, the Pentagon, and companies such as Northrop Grumman and Maxar Technologies over his 30+ year career.

"We have been working closely with Mike in his role as CEO of The Elding Group as a resource for our DOD business development activities", says Nick Cianciolo, Intelligent Artifacts' CEO. "Mike quickly became our champion in the Defense sector, identifying and putting us in contact with decision-makers most in need of our AI/ML capabilities. He is the perfect person to marry our technology offering with the right government programs and we're thrilled to welcome him to the team."

As his title suggests, Mr. Edwards will spearhead the company's growth with a primary focus on pursuing opportunities within the DOD and Intelligence Community. He will work closely with Intelligent Artifacts' leadership, which consists of Nick Cianciolo, CEO, David Verlander, Chief Strategy Officer, Mark Mackowiak, Chief Operating Officer, and IA's Founder and CTO, Sevak Avakians, in creating business development strategies for Multi-Domain operations and other applications, expanding discriminating technology capabilities, and formulating messaging and strategic approaches for the capture of new opportunities.

Mr. Edwards commented, "I could not be more excited to join Intelligent Artifacts as CGO. In my discussions with Sevak, Nick, and the rest of the leadership team, it became quickly apparent that IA has built a groundbreaking AI/ML solution that solves previously unsolvable pain points. This will have an overwhelmingly positive impact on how DOD operations and Intelligence capabilities are executed across the full spectrum of operations."

About Intelligent Artifacts

Based in New York City, Intelligent Artifacts, Inc. is a machine intelligence company dedicated to eliminating current AI/ML shortcomings using its ExCITE (Explainable, Computable, Interpretable, Traceable, Editable) AI framework, GAIuS. GAIuS helps clients in the defense, aerospace, and emergency response domains in need of modular, flexible, and scalable ExCITE AI solutions for mission and safety-critical applications. To learn more visit http://www.intelligent-artifacts.com .

SOURCE Intelligent Artifacts

Related Links

https://www.intelligent-artifacts.com


Slated to be operational by 2022, the Wastewater Monitoring Laboratory will be the first of its kind aimed at developing a world-class facility for improving the health of the residents of a major city. By using real-time information to assess the prevalence of infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and other health conditions like diabetes and cancer, authorities will be able to monitor human health and prevent the spread of disease.

"This project will help empower public health officials and the Abu Dhabi community by using evidence-based tools, like artificial intelligence, to screen wastewater for pathogens, pollutants and other indicators of human health," said Jacobs People & Places Solutions EVP and President Patrick Hill. "This is another example of how we are helping our clients incorporate digital tools to protect the health of their communities."

The lab is classified as a Biosafety Level 3 laboratory, which has strict control and containment measures as well as automation in its design. Jacobs will oversee project execution and supervise the design, engineering, procurement and construction of the lab. Jacobs will also leverage previous experience in wastewater-based epidemiology at treatment plants to deliver this project.

"The Wastewater Monitoring Lab is a remarkable initiative and a step forward in our continuous efforts to protect the public health of the people of Abu Dhabi," said Director of Executive Affairs at the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy and Wastewater Monitoring Lab Project Director Saeed AlMehairbi. "We are looking forward to working with Jacobs, leveraging its renowned expertise in providing distinguished, digitally enabled solutions aligned to our public health and social well-being priorities."

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. With $14 billion in revenue and a talent force of approximately 55,000, Jacobs provides a full spectrum of professional services including consulting, technical, scientific and project delivery for the government and private sector. Visit jacobs.com and connect with Jacobs on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking statements as such term is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such statements are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provided by the same. Statements made in this release that are not based on historical fact are forward-looking statements. We base these forward-looking statements on management's current estimates and expectations as well as currently available competitive, financial and economic data. Forward-looking statements, however, are inherently uncertain. There are a variety of factors that could cause business results to differ materially from our forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the emergence and spread of variants of COVID-19, and the related reaction of governments on global and regional market conditions and the company's business. For a description of some additional factors that may occur that could cause actual results to differ from our forward-looking statements, see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 2, 2020, and in particular the discussions contained under Item 1 - Business; Item 1A - Risk Factors; Item 3 - Legal Proceedings; and Item 7 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 2, 2021, and in particular the discussions contained under Part I, Item 2 - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations; Part II, Item 1 - Legal Proceedings; and Part II, Item 1A - Risk Factors, as well as the company's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The company is not under any duty to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this press release to conform to actual results, except as required by applicable law.

For press/media inquiries:

Kerrie Sparks

214.583.8433

SOURCE Jacobs

Related Links

http://www.jacobs.com


TOKYO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Artisan&Artist* Global launched their online store, offering a curated selection of premium bags and accessories worldwide.

Artisan&Artist* Global - Basalt Series Artisan&Artist* Global - Professional Line

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Artisan&Artist* will expand into the Western market and release a dedicated global site to cater to the needs and desires of new consumers. "Our Artisan&Artist* handcrafted cosmetic pouches and camera accessories have found many international friends and enthusiasts over the past three decades," says Enrico Domhardt, President of Artisan&Artist Co., Ltd. "We're excited to share the exceptional Japanese craftsmanship embodied in every Artisan&Artist* product and learn from the passions and interests of our new audience."

Artisan&Artist* Global partnered with Streamline Media Group, an international group of game and tech developers for the Metaverse, to launch their worldwide store. With Streamline's recent collaboration with renowned fashion house Balenciaga, this partnership will undoubtedly utilize Streamline's expertise in brand experience and consumer interaction.

"I have a personal love for exquisitely made products and travel bags," says Alexander Fernandez, CEO and Co-Founder of Streamline Media Group. "The opportunity to launch Artisan&Artist* to the Western market piqued our interest as we see the future potential for interactive consumer engagement." Domhardt concurred, "we have found a professional partner from a different industry who shares our values such as quality, precision, creativity, and connecting people through consumer products."

Artisan&Artist* began as a range for professional make-up artists, hairstylists, and photographers and has evolved to incorporate the staples of Japanese minimalist and organized living. The selection of bags and accessories available on the global store has been chosen as the epitome of long-lasting premium quality bringing artisanal elegance and sophistication to your everyday.

Shop now to enjoy their limited-time-only flash promotion.

Artisan&Artist* Global

The Artisan&Artist* brand is synonymous with craftsmanship. Founded in 1991, and steeped in Japanese heritage, the construction of each product moves through a considered design process from fabric selection to fastenings to functionality to bring sophisticated organization to your beauty regimen, travels, work, and daily life. Artisan&Artist* Global ensures long-lasting and timeless style, now available worldwide. Shop the full collection here https://artisanandartist.global/ || Instagram || Facebook || Newsletter

Streamline Media Group

Founded in 2001, Streamline Media Group is a global independent development company creating the Metaverse with video games. They have a strong presence in Asia, Europe, and the United States and are at the forefront of remote work and the digital transformation. Streamline Media Group parents five business divisions; Streamline Studios, Streamframe, Streamline Games, All Pixels, and Day Zero. To learn more about Streamline Media Group or to discuss collaborative opportunities, visit https://www.streamline-mediagroup.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:

Layla Amir

[email protected]

+ 447597670288

Cristina Zani

[email protected]

PRODUCT REVIEW:

If you would like to review or loan any of the products for upcoming features, shoots, or lists, please visit Artisan&Artist* Global and email Layla with your preferred list of products and details of the event.

PRESS KIT: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1T7SqvYAem_NSpFdaZuvj1uETAyG6Zjxc?usp=sharing

SOURCE Artisan&Artist* Global

Related Links

http://artisanandartist.global/


WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Buckley LLP, a national law firm focused on financial services, white collar defense, and complex civil litigation, announced that John R. Coleman, former Deputy General Counsel of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, has joined the firm as a partner.

Coleman, who served in the federal government for 15 years as a litigator and adviser to senior policymakers, joined the CFPB soon after its creation and played a key role in standing it up. He was one of a core group of attorneys tasked with interpreting the novel authorities granted to the agency by the Consumer Financial Protection Act, and establishing the procedures by which the agency exercises those authorities. He was most recently the bureau's Deputy General Counsel for Litigation and Oversight, managing the team of attorneys responsible for representing the CFPB in litigation, including appellate matters, and before congressional oversight bodies. He also advised the director and enforcement colleagues throughout the lifecycle of investigations, including the scope of authority to issue and enforce civil investigative demands, the merits of potential claims under the federal consumer financial laws, and the CFPB's remedial authority.

"John's litigation and enforcement experience, combined with his knowledge of the Consumer Financial Protection Act, make him a great addition to our nationally recognized financial services practices  and a timely one given the CFPB's increasing enforcement activity and anticipated increase in litigation with the financial services industry," said Benjamin B. Klubes, Buckley's Co-Managing Partner. "John distinguished himself during his tenure at the CFPB, providing valuable counsel to every director since the bureau's inception and taking a hand in every significant litigation matter in the agency's history. That experience will be invaluable to our clients."

Prior to joining the CFPB, Coleman was a trial attorney in the Federal Programs Branch of the Department of Justice's Civil Division, representing federal agencies and officials in high-profile civil litigation, including cases brought under the U.S. Constitution, the Administrative Procedure Act, and federal antidiscrimination laws.

"After 15 years of public service, now is the right time for the next challenge in my career," said Coleman. "Buckley was the obvious choice given its broad and deep bench of talented financial services regulatory and enforcement lawyers, and I look forward to working with its outstanding team."

Coleman received his J.D. from the University of Virginia, where he was a member of the managing board of the Virginia Law Review, and his B.A. from Dartmouth College.

With offices in Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and London, Buckley LLP offers premier enforcement, litigation, compliance, regulatory, and transactional services to financial services institutions and early stage and leading fintech and technology companies, as well as venture capital and private equity funds, investment companies, and corporate and individual clients throughout the world. "The best at what they do in the country." (Chambers USA)

CONTACT: Mark Lutin

[email protected] | (202) 349-7929

SOURCE Buckley LLP

Related Links

https://buckleyfirm.com


Carefully crafted to feel like a space within a space, the dark and moody vibe of the pop-up is designed to reflect the luxe DNA of the brand while still feeling welcoming and accessible. Mallet London's signature gold clip also played a part in the design as much of the framework is accented with gold finishes. The minimal footprint was designed with a modular build concept, allowing for less waste.

The modern and sleek 1061 sq. ft. space will house a number of Mallet London essentials including men's footwear and clothing. During London Fashion Week, the store will switch focus to the women's collection featuring top selling essentials and new styles.

As well as stocking some exclusive styles, the pop-up will also debut the highly sought-after collaboration between Mallet London and iconic Australian knitwear brand COOGI. The brands' previous collaboration in 2019 featured an exclusive and limited edition drop with two styles. The much anticipated release sold out within an hour. This time around, the drop will consist of Mallet's Cyrus silhouette swathed in COOGI's trademark colorful knit. Due to COOGI's unique patterning, no two pairs are alike. "The first drop was such a great success, we had to bring it back in a bigger way," noted Mallet. "Our Cyrus silhouette provides the perfect canvas for COOGI's bold designs."

COOGI's recognizable multicolored swirls were first popularized during the 90s hip-hop scene. The Australian brand continues to have lasting appeal as new generations of consumers discover its significance in fashion history and find innovative ways to incorporate it into modern fashion.

The limited edition styles, available in Black or White, are priced at 240 and will be available for purchase at mallet.com, Selfridges and at the Carnaby Street store.

"It's a proud day for me. Mallet is a British brand, I am a proud Brit, and opening my first store on the most iconic retail street in the UK, well, there is nothing more British than that," noted Mallet.

The Carnaby Street pop-up and COOGI collaboration are part of a busy year for Mallet London. The brand is currently in the midst of a major global expansion that includes launches at Selfridges London, Saks Fifth Avenue in the U.S., Harry Rosen in Canada and David Jones in Australia.

About Mallet London

Mallet London, was founded in 2015 by unconventional entrepreneur Tommy Mallet and businessman Evren Ozkarakasli. At just 28 years old, Tommy Mallet, recently named Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe for Retail & Ecommerce, has built a successful footwear business despite having no formal design training.

It all began with a spark of creativity from Tommy, combined with Evren's business experience. Mallet, an avid trainer collector and urban fashion trendsetter, had an idea for a unique pair of trainers. He couldn't find anything on the market that spoke to his style sensibility and was both affordable and high quality. Tommy eventually took matters into his own hands and sketched his idea. He then reached out to Evren, a friend who worked in the fashion industry, and asked if he could make his dream trainer a reality. Tommy and Evren collaborated on the design and production and sold their creations online as a trial, expecting their friends might be interested in purchasing them. The rest, as they say, is history. Less than six years later, the London based brand is now a major force in the premium footwear industry with distribution at 145 stores throughout the US, UK, and Europe in locations as far reaching as Dubai and South Africa. The brand is at home in some of the world's most distinguished stores including Selfridges, Harrods, Browns, Harvey Nichols, Level Shoes and Saks Fifth Avenue.

The brand, which carries both men's and women's sneakers and a small selection of apparel, is known for its bold yet minimalistic silhouettes with sleek soles fabricated from smooth supple leather. Mallet launches new styles each season but also maintains a core essentials collection. Signature details synonymous with the brand include the statement metal heel clip and the trademark "M" monogram. Prices start from 165.

About Carnaby

Carnaby is in the heart of London's West End, where over 100 retail brands of quality and distinction and over 60 independent restaurants, cafes and bars can be found across 14 streets, including the world famous Carnaby Street. Carnaby is a unique and iconic experiential shopping, dining and leisure destination.

Follow @CarnabyLondon and visit Carnaby.co.uk for full updates, news and information.

SOURCE Mallet London
MERRILL, Wis., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- John Schewe, owner and president of Merrill Distributing, and Sherry and Guy Frostman, owners of Frostman Fish Market, today announced the two companies will merge. Both companies are local, family-owned and professionally-managed businesses that supply food and food-related products to the Wisconsin hospitality, restaurant, and convenience store trade. This merger will combine sales, warehouse, and delivery operations.

Frostman Fish Market

Merrill Distributing has been a supplier to the restaurant and convenience store industries for more than 100 years. Merrill services customers in the North and Central regions of Wisconsin including and surrounding Wausau WI, as well as Upper Michigan.

Frostman Fish Market has been a specialty supplier of fish and seafood from coastal waters to the restaurant trade in Wausau, WI for more than 70 years. Guy Frostman is joining the Merrill leadership and sales team, while Sherry Frostman will be retiring after the transition.

"Both Frostman and Merrill have served our area with integrity and reliability," Shewe said. "This is the reason customers have chosen Merrill Distributing as their primary supplier, with services to assist customers with foodservice business growth and marketing needs."

Merrill and Frostman customers will see the newly-combined and enlarged product lines, and meet key company staff members at the Merrill Distributing Trade Show, at the Central Wisconsin Expo & Conference Center, at the Cedar Creek Mall in Rothschild, WI on Tuesday, September 14, 2021.

Media Contact:

John Schewe

(800) 289-6232 Ext 302

[email protected]

SOURCE Merrill Distributing, Inc.
SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hazel Health , the national leader in school-based healthcare, has announced partnerships with seven Missouri school districts to provide telehealth services for K-12 students and families. Through Hazel Health, students are able to connect directly with licensed physicians from their school nurse's office or at home.

"With its network of local healthcare providers, effective SBHCs and FQHCs, and strong group of dedicated school nurses, Missouri is setting a national example for improving student health and wellness," said Josh Golomb, CEO of Hazel Health. "Our goal is to provide complementary support, such as access to doctors during the school day without leaving campus. Schools are a central engagement point for students and families, meaning they're in a good position to efficiently and effectively contribute to student wellness efforts."

Joining the hundreds of school districts that have implemented Hazel Health's school-based telehealth services nationally are Missouri's Grandview R-2 School District, Puxico R-8 School District, Rockwood School District and St. Clair R-XIII School District.

"Using Hazel Health as a resource helps me better educate students and families about health, wellness and the common medical conditions they're dealing with," said Kadie Stormer, Nurse at Grandview Elementary. "I love that partnering with Hazel Health means working parents and caregivers don't have their lives upended to gain access to care when a child is ill."

As the only telehealth provider designed specifically for schools, Hazel Health's technology enables on-demand care within minutes, and strictly adheres to FERPA, HIPAA, and district and federal policies. The company's care team is staffed by culturally responsive, state-licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, who work alongside nurses and parents to treat students and advise on next steps.

"Puxico is a rural community, so access to medical care can be a challenge for our students and their families," said Nate Wills, Principal at Puxico Elementary. "Hazel also provides us an opportunity to keep students in class as much as possible without students accruing excessive absences due to health concerns. We have been extremely pleased in our partnership with Hazel."

Hazel Health actively partners with insurance companies and state Medicaid programs to fund programs. These partners support their mission to improve access to health, reduce unnecessary emergency room visits, and improve key health outcomes.

"This partnership is designed to increase access to quality health care for all students, safely keep healthy students in school, positively impact attendance and provide convenience  particularly for working parents," said Amy Wehr, Supervisor, Wellness and Health Services at Rockwood R-VI School District. "This option for families is one more method in our toolkit to support the wellbeing of all students."

"When we learned of Hazel Health, we thought it would be a wonderful resource that we could offer our families," said Nadine Aitch, Asst. Superintendent at St. Clair R-13 School District. "We live in a lower socioeconomic status community. For families in need, education and health services are not always a priority. But the partnership with Hazel Health allows us to combine both areas to ease the burden on our families."

For additional information about Hazel Health, please visit https://www.hazel.co/ or contact [email protected] .

About Hazel Health

Hazel Health is committed to eliminating barriers to quality healthcare for children. As the national leader in delivering pediatric telehealth care, Hazel Health partners with school districts across the U.S. and currently serves almost 2 million children. Hazel's team of experienced pediatricians, therapists, educators, and best-in-class engineers are passionate about ensuring all children receive the best care in school or at home. Hazel is based in San Francisco, California. For more information, please visit http://www.hazel.co.

SOURCE Hazel Health

Related Links

https://www.hazel.co


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Every September 11th, Pay It Forward 9/11 a charity established in 2002, encourages Americans to perform three good deeds for strangers as a way to honor victims of the 9/11 attacks. This effort was inspired by the people of the small town of Gander, Newfoundland (then pop. 9,000), who provided food, clothing and shelter to 7,000 stranded airline passengers from 90 countries, diverted there when US airspace was closed. This story and charity are mentioned in the Sept 10 AppleTV+ film release of " Come From Away" -the Broadway musical."

By encouraging pay it forward actions (random acts of kindness) on September 10th and 11th, this kindness movement is on track to have the most successful event in its 19-year history.

"Based on initial pledges, we're certain to exceed our goal of 20,000 good deeds to honor the victims killed 20 years ago in the 9/11 attacks," says Kevin Tuerff, founder and president. "Back in 2001, in a time before hashtags, the words "United We Stand" were pervasive across the country. Twenty years later, we are a divided country, and suffering mightily from the pandemic, climate disasters and more. History tells us by working together, we can accomplish great things. By focusing on the theme of unity this year, we encourage participants everywhere to perform a good deed for someone who looks, or thinks different than themselves."

Businesses like Dell Technologies, Starbucks, Steptoe & Johnson, Gallin & Son and AZ Advisory Group are encouraging their employees to participate in the national day of remembrance and service.

For participation tips, visit PayItFoward911.org and add your participation pledge to place your community's heart on our global Map of Kindness.

Pay it Forward 9/11, Inc. is supported by generous individual donors and sponsored by the writers and producers of Come From Away musical, Tito's Handmade Vodka, Walmart, Gallin & Son, AZ Advisory Group and Precise Communications.

Pay it Forward 9/11 social media channels:

http://payitforward911.org

https://www.instagram.com/payitforward911/

https://twitter.com/911payitforward

SOURCE Pay It Forward 9/11

Related Links

https://www.payitforward911.org/


NOC will kick off its international travel program in 2022 with 12 trips that offer varying itineraries available for ages six and up with activities ranging in skill level from beginner to expert. The all-inclusive excursions are fully planned and led by experienced guides and include everything from the adventure and gear to the lodging and meals, with the exception of flights. Due to partnerships with local guides and hosts in each region, these trips offer intimate and authentic experiences with smaller groups, off-the-beaten-path excursions and unique accommodations. This makes for an accessible approach to adventure travel, where guests can confidently navigate and experience some of the most beautiful places on Earth without feeling like a tourist.

With NOC's 50 years of adventure experience, trips have options including multi-sport itineraries and a range of specific adventure activities, like whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding and horseback riding. Non-adventure activities include unique cultural experiences, bear viewings, safaris, wine tastings and farm to table meals.

"Nantahala Outdoor Center is incredibly excited to launch international trip experiences for our guests as a way to celebrate 50 years of adventure," said Colin McBeath, NOC President. "We hope these guided, off-the-beaten-path expeditions will foster the same spirit of adventure we encourage in our Southeastern locations while giving people the opportunity to explore beyond their own backyard."

NOC has a long legacy of providing domestic and international trip experiences. Prior to the new international adventures program, most recently, trips abroad were limited to kayaking adventures in Chile. Now, NOC is offering the following international trips:

Chilko-Chilcotin-Fraser, British Columbia - Rafting

- Bear Camp, British Columbia - Bear Viewing

- Bear Camp, British Columbia - Multi-Sport

- Lake District, Chile - Multi-Sport

- Argentina - Multi-Sport

- Peru - Multi-Sport & Trek

- Costa Rica  Surf & Multi-Sport

 Kilimanjaro - Mountain Climbing & Safari

Zambezi River, Zimbabwe  Rafting + Safari

 Southern Iceland - Multi-Sport

- Norway - Source to Sea Multi-Sport

- Bhutan - Kayaking + Rafting & Cultural

To book an NOC international adventure trip and learn more, visit noc.com/international.

About Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center is the nation's largest outdoor recreation company with operations spanning Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Over a million guests visit NOC annually to embark on a diverse collection of more than 120 different river and land-based itineraries, learn to kayak at NOC's world-renowned Paddling School, travel abroad with NOC's Adventure Travel program, test the latest outdoor gear and shop at its LEED-certified flagship retail stores or enjoy NOC's resort amenities such as its three restaurants and multi-tiered lodging. NOC has been recognized by The New York Times as the "Nation's Premiere Paddling School," "The Best Place to Learn" by Outside, and as "One of the Best Outfitters on Earth" by National Geographic Adventure.

SOURCE Nantahala Outdoor Center

Related Links

http://noc.com/international


WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA Administrator Bill Nelson joined federal government and industry leaders Thursday at a White House event highlighting sustainable aviation and the administration's focus on medium- and long-term goals to combat climate change.

The event highlighted a plan to reduce aviation carbon emissions through production of more than three billion gallons of sustainable fuel by 2030. Officials from the Departments of Transportation, Energy and Agriculture announced a Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge (SAFGC) to meet this goal, in partnership with industry and other federal agencies. SAFGC aims to reduce costs, enhance the sustainability of aviation, as well as expand the production and use of sustainable aviation fuel to meet 100% of U.S. demand by 2050.

Nelson delivered remarks underscoring NASA's origins as an aeronautics research organization and history of improving aviation efficiency and safety. NASA innovations have made aircraft quieter and more fuel efficient while reducing their harmful emissions, he said, making aviation more sustainable environmentally and economically.

"Our aeronautics researchers are developing and testing new green technologies for next generation aircraft, new automation tools for greener and safer airspace operations, and sustainable energy options for aircraft propulsion," Nelson said.

NASA is investing in cost-sharing partnerships with U.S. companies to research and demonstrate high-risk, high-reward technology for next-generation, single-aisle aircraft that are at least 25% more fuel efficient. These aircraft could see service by the early 2030s. Single-aisle aircraft generate the largest share of aviation carbon emissions of all aircraft class sizes.

"We're working to keep U.S. companies economically competitive by helping them bring to market the next generation of environmentally-sustainable commercial transport aircraft," said Bob Pearce, NASA's associate administrator for aeronautics. "The fiercely competitive single-aisle market is an important path to economic recovery for aircraft manufacturers and airlines after COVID, and foreign governments are investing heavily in these technologies."

Under its recently launched Sustainable Flight National Partnership, NASA will collaborate with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and industry partners to accelerate the maturation of aircraft and engine technologies to enable a significant reduction in fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The partnership's efforts include demonstrating new technology, such as the first-ever high-power, hybrid-electric propulsion systems for large transport aircraft, long and slender ultra-high efficiency wings, and advanced composite materials. NASA will also demonstrate advanced engine technologies based on its breakthrough innovations.

In collaboration with the Department of Energy, NASA will develop battery technologies that can provide the power required for electric aircraft with vertical takeoff and landing capability, as well as for short-range consumer aircraft. In the long term, these battery technologies could potentially achieve the energy density needed for longer-range electric aircraft as well.

A memorandum of understanding signed at the White House event calls for the development of a government-wide strategic plan to meet these goals. The SAFGC Roadmap will take a multi-generational approach, setting U.S. milestones at 2030, 2040, and 2050.

NASA will contribute to the nation's commitment to sustainable aviation embodied in the SAFGC. Building on its ground and flight campaigns of the past decade, NASA researchers will continue sampling and characterizing the makeup of sustainable aviation fuel emissions to verify performance, and to ensure compatibility of sustainable aviation fuels with existing and future aircraft.

For information on the administration's Sustainable Aviation Fuels efforts, see this new fact sheet:

https://go.nasa.gov/3l8sGXg

For more information about NASA, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Richard Sofield, a nationally recognized attorney with nearly three decades of experience in United States national security legal and public policy matters, has joined Vinson & Elkins as a partner in Washington, D.C.

Sofield joins Vinson & Elkins from Wiley Rein LLP, where he led the firm's Committee of Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) practice group. He focuses on cross-border investment and national security matters, including security reviews by CFIUS, the mitigation of foreign ownership, control or influence (FOCI) under national industrial security regulations administered by the Defense Security Service and Department of Energy, national security reviews of U.S. Federal Communications license applications by Team Telecom, and the application of international export controls and economic sanctions.

"As laws evolve and national security reviews become more frequent and complex, Rick's impressive credentials will immediately benefit our M&A and private equity clients facing these challenges in cross-border transactions," said Vinson & Elkins' managing partner Scott Wulfe. "His addition to our partnership comes at a pivotal time as demand for CFIUS work continues to grow."

Prior to joining Wiley, Sofield served for 24 years as a government lawyer, including as Director of the Foreign Investment Review Staff for the National Security Division at the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). In this role, he oversaw DOJ's participation in CFIUS, including the review of more than 1,000 acquisitions and efforts to prohibit multiple transactions on national security grounds. He also served as Chair of Team Telecom, the national security review apparatus for foreign investment in entities regulated by the FCC.

Sofield has worked closely on matters in both the public and private sectors with the FCC, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Central Intelligence Agency, the National Security Agency, the National Intelligence Council, the National Security Council, the Executive Office of the President and the U.S. Departments of Treasury, Defense, Homeland Security, State, Commerce and Energy, as well as other agencies evaluating foreign investment-related issues.

"Rick's background and involvement in landmark CFIUS, Team Telecom, and FOCI matters have equipped him to undertake diligence related to transactions and government contracts matters in virtually every industry we serve," said Craig Seebald, co-head of Vinson & Elkins' Complex Commercial Litigation practice and managing partner of the firm's Washington, D.C. office. "He is an exceptional lawyer who will no doubt shape the strategy for CFIUS and trade controls clients at the firm."

Recognized as a leading attorney in International Trade by Legal 500 US (2021), Sofield has also received countless accolades from governmental organizations, including the Assistant Attorney General's Award for National Security in 2018 and the Attorney General's Award for Exceptional Service and the Intelligence Community Legal Award, both in 2011.

"Vinson & Elkins' strong corporate and government contracts practices are a natural complement to my experience on CFIUS, FOCI, Team Telecom and other national security-related reviews," Sofield said. "I have had the great fortune to work with several talented attorneys at the firm, including Jeremy Marwell and Dave Johnson, and am thrilled to join them and the rest of the team as the firm's CFIUS practice continues to flourish."

Vinson & Elkins' National Security & International Trade practice assists foreign and domestic clients in navigating the web of U.S. national security laws and regulations and related compliance risks that apply to cross-border transactions. The firm is internationally recognized and includes practitioners highlighted by Chambers USA (2021) and Chambers Global (2021) for CFIUS and Export Controls and Sanctions experience.

About Vinson & Elkins

For more than 100 years, Vinson & Elkins has provided deep experience in handling transactions, investments, projects, and disputes worldwide. The firm is a trusted adviser to clients in the most important industrial and digital industries. Learn more by visiting www.velaw.com or follow us on Twitter @VinsonandElkins or connect with us on LinkedIn .

For more information, please speak with our media contacts .

CONTACT:

Courtney Binick

[email protected]

713-758-2333

SOURCE Vinson & Elkins LLP

Related Links

http://www.velaw.com


"American Military Hero Rob O'Neill of Armed Forces Brewing Company will appear in Annapolis for 20th Anniversary of 9/11" Tweet this

Armed Forces Brewing Company, founded by experienced veterans of the food and beverage industry, an award-winning brewmaster, and U.S. Military Veterans including O'Neill and other Special Forces veterans, is the parent company for four beer brands that pay tribute to each branch of the Military: Seawolf (Navy, Coast Guard), Soldier (Army), Airmen (Air Force and Space Force) and Jarhead (Marine Corps). The beer is currently distributed in Maryland, Virginia, and Rhode Island and is available for online ordering and shipping to 46 states.

Beal notes that events like these allow Armed Forces Brewing Company to get exposure for its growing beer brands and its mission to employ Military Veterans in its workforce as the company expands. Beal also notes that these events allow the brewery to spread the word about the opportunity for anyone to invest as little as $200 alongside American heroes like O'Neill and own part of the military tribute brands. By holding their SEC-qualified public stock offering online, the company is raising capital to acquire to acquire a brewing facility to maximize production and distribution. Information on the investment opportunity is available at www.OwnArmedForcesBrewingCo.com/pr.

In addition to great beer and patriotic brands, Armed Forces Brewing Company plans to employ a majority of its workforce from the Veteran community and to have social impact around issues including Veteran suicide and Veteran homelessness.

For more information on Armed Forces Brewing Company, visit www.OwnArmedForcesBrewingCo.com/pr and follow the company on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

SOURCE Armed Forces Brewing Company

Related Links

www.armedforcesbrewingco.com


The Conservation and Survey Division of the University of Nebraska Lincoln's School of Natural Resources is Providing NioCorp Access to Historic Drill Core from the Site to Facilitate Core Assay Tests in September and October 2021

CENTENNIAL, Colo., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NioCorp Developments Ltd. ("NioCorp" or the "Company") (TSX:NB) (OTCQX:NIOBF) is pleased to announce that it will analyze historic drilling core samples from the Elk Creek deposit in southeast Nebraska in order to compile sufficient data with the aim of publishing an updated Mineral Resource for the Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project (the "Project") that includes individual rare earth elements ("REEs") grades and tonnage that may exist in the deposit.

NioCorp is currently conducting extensive metallurgical testing to demonstrate, among other things, the potential extraction and recovery of REEs from the Project site, subject to receipt of necessary project funding.

Updating the Project's Mineral Resource is a significant step forward in the Company's examination of the technical and economic feasibility of adding several REEs as byproducts to its planned product suite, which includes the critical minerals niobium, scandium, and titanium. The Company's REE initiative was launched in response to intense interest by governments and industrial consumers around the world for additional sources of rare earths beyond current suppliers.

Publicly issuing an updated Mineral Resource that includes individual REE grades and tonnage data contained in the Elk Creek deposit is not expected to require updating other major elements of the Project's current Feasibility Study.

Commercial rare earth products currently being examined for potential production by NioCorp include neodymium-praseodymium oxide ("NdPr"), dysprosium oxide ("Dy2O3"), and terbium oxide ("Tb4O7"). These are the primary rare earth elements used to manufacture the world's most powerful permanent magnets, known as neodymium-iron-boron ("NdFeB") magnets.

"Metallurgical testing to date has shown excellent preliminary results in terms of the efficiency with which we believe we can extract rare earths as a byproduct of our current production plans," said Scott Honan, Chief Operating Officer of NioCorp. "Taking this next step of updating our Mineral Resource and including rare earth grades and tonnages in the Resource, to the extent REEs qualify for reporting as a Mineral Resource, will help us move forward in this process and should provide the public with more information on the rare earth potential of the Elk Creek carbonatite. I look forward to seeing the results of additional core sampling."

"I also want to thank the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for its support of this effort and for the UNL's Conservation and Survey Division's many years of involvement in the assessment of the world-class carbonatite near Elk Creek," he added.

Extensive drilling of the Elk Creek resource has been conducted by NioCorp and other companies over the past several decades. Some of the drill core from that exploratory drilling is stored and curated in a repository of the University of Nebraska's. UNL's Conservation and Survey Division ("CSD") is a unique, multi-disciplinary research, service and data-resource organization that originated in 1893. As Nebraska's geological survey, its mission is to investigate and record information about the state's geologic history, its rock and mineral resources, the quantity and quality of its water resources, land cover, and other aspects of its geography, as well as the nature, distribution and uses of its soils.

CSD was actively involved in the discovery of the Elk Creek carbonatite more than five decades ago. CSD continues to curate samples and data from the deposit, among its many other collections, for the benefit of stakeholders and in the public interest. CSD has been an invaluable source of data and expertise for minerals development and other Earth-science issues in Nebraska since its founding.

@NioCorp $NB $NIOBF #ElkCreek #Niobium #Scandium #Nebraska #rareearth #UNL #CSD

For More Information:

Contact Jim Sims, VP of External Affairs, NioCorp Developments Ltd., 720-639-4650, [email protected]

About NioCorp

NioCorp is developing a superalloy materials project in Southeast Nebraska that will produce Niobium, Scandium, and Titanium. The Company also is evaluating the potential to produce several rare earth byproducts from the Project. Niobium is used to produce superalloys as well as High Strength, Low Alloy ("HSLA") steel, which is a lighter, stronger steel used in automotive, structural, and pipeline applications. Scandium is a superalloy material that can be combined with Aluminum to make alloys with increased strength and improved corrosion resistance. Scandium is also a critical component of advanced solid oxide fuel cells. Titanium is used in various superalloys and is a key component of pigments used in paper, paint and plastics and is also used for aerospace applications, armor, and medical implants. Magnetic rare earths, such as Neodymium, Praseodymium, Terbium, and Dysprosium are critical to the making of Neodymium-Iron-Boron ("NdFeB") magnets, which are used across a wide variety of defense and civilian applications.

Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimers

Certain statements contained in this news release may constitute forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the success of the Company's effort to sample additional Elk Creek drill core, its ability to complete and issue an updated Mineral Resource for the Project, to the extent REEs qualify for reporting as a Mineral Resource, its ability to produce commercial rare earth products, the Company's expectations that the Project will reach production stage if it is able to secure project financing, and its ability to produce its planned products commercially. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause a change in such assumptions and the actual outcomes and estimates to be materially different from those estimated or anticipated future results, achievements or position expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause NioCorp's plans or prospects to change include risks related to the Company's ability to operate as a going concern; risks related to the Company's requirement of significant additional capital; changes in demand for and price of commodities (such as fuel and electricity) and currencies; changes in economic valuations of the Project, such as Net Present Value calculations, changes or disruptions in the securities markets; legislative, political or economic developments; the need to obtain permits and comply with laws and regulations and other regulatory requirements; the possibility that actual results of work may differ from projections/expectations or may not realize the perceived potential of NioCorp's projects; risks of accidents, equipment breakdowns and labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions; the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated expenses in development programs; operating or technical difficulties in connection with exploration, mining or development activities; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities of grades of reserves and resources; and the risks involved in the exploration, development and mining business and the risks set forth in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators at www.sedar.com and the SEC at www.sec.gov. NioCorp disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

SOURCE NioCorp Developments Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.niocorp.com


The fourth episode of the five-part docuseries offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Company's Great Cruise Comeback when Norwegian Jade becomes the first ship in the fleet to welcome guests back on board after 500 days. Viewers will witness the emotional moments when crew reunite for the first time after many months, as well as their excitement to do what they do best  deliver memorable cruise experiences. The episode will showcase the final preparations to ready the ship before the first guests embark and Norwegian Jade makes history as the first ship in the NCL fleet to homeport in Athens.

"We have been building up to this moment, when we finally set sail after a long 500-day journey back to cruising," said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. "From the beginning we set out to bring travelers along as we innovated and prepared for our Great Cruise Comeback. Now, in this fourth episode we bring viewers along to see and feel the emotions and excitement of safely reuniting with our guests, crew and the destinations we've missed for over the last year."

The first three episodes of "EMBARK  The Series" are available on-demand at www.ncl.com/embark. Each episode chronicles the brand's efforts for a safe resumption of operations with upgraded technologies and health and safety protocols, as well as investments in elevating the guest experience with new product offerings across its fleet and private resort destinations.

Norwegian Cruise Line restarted its cruise operations on July 25, 2021 following a more than 500-day suspension, with Norwegian Jade launching seven-day itineraries to the Greek Isles. Norwegian Encore became the first ship in the NCL fleet to return to cruising from the U.S. on Aug. 7, 2021 and is currently sailing her inaugural season of week-long Alaska voyages from Seattle. On Aug. 15, 2021, Norwegian Gem was the first ship in the fleet to resume operations from Miami and set sail from the new Norwegian Cruise Line Terminal at PortMiami with a selection of week-long voyages to the Caribbean and four-day cruises to the Bahamas. Most recently, the Company relaunched Norwegian Epic from Barcelona on Sept. 5, 2021 offering seven-day voyages through Oct. 24, 2021 to the Western Mediterranean. Additional ships are scheduled to redeploy in Europe and North America as the fall progresses.

The fleetwide redeployment will continue in partnership with local governments and are guided by the robust protocols of the Company's SailSAFE health and safety program, which at its cornerstone includes that all crew and guests must be fully vaccinated to embark for voyages through Dec. 31, 2021. Working with the leading experts of the SailSAFE Global Health and Wellness Council, the robust protocols will be regularly evaluated and modified as needed, making science-based decisions to protect guests, crew and the destinations it visits. As protocols evolve and additional information becomes available, updates will be published at www.ncl.com/sail-safe.

For more information about the Company's award-winning 17-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

SOURCE Norwegian Cruise Line

Related Links

http://www.ncl.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Burford Capital Limited, the leading global finance and asset management firm focused on law, today announces that it will hold an investor event on Tuesday November 2, 2021 at 10.00am-12.30pm EDT / 2.00-4.30pm GMT / 3.00-5.30pm CET.

The investor event will be hosted by Christopher Bogart, Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder, and Jonathan Molot, Chief Investment Officer and Co-Founder, as well as other members of the senior management team. For institutional investors and analysts, the event will take place in person at the New York Stock Exchange, followed by a reception. There will be a simultaneous online real-time video webcast, from which registered participants will have the functional capability to put questions to the management team. Further details, including registration and participation, will be announced in due course.

About Burford Capital

Burford Capital is the leading global finance and asset management firm focused on law. Its businesses include litigation finance and risk management, asset recovery and a wide range of legal finance and advisory activities. Burford is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BUR) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: BUR), and it works with companies and law firms around the world from its principal offices in New York, London, Chicago, Washington, Singapore and Sydney.

For more information, please visit www.burfordcapital.com.

This communication shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any ordinary shares or other securities of Burford.

This release does not constitute an offer of any Burford fund. Burford Capital Investment Management LLC ("BCIM"), which acts as the fund manager of all Burford funds, is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The information provided herein is for informational purposes only. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The information contained herein is not, and should not be construed as, an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities (including, without limitation, interests or shares in the funds). Any such offer or solicitation may be made only by means of a final confidential Private Placement Memorandum and other offering documents.

Forward-looking statements

This announcement contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934 regarding assumptions, expectations, projections, intentions and beliefs about future events. These statements are intended as "forward-looking statements". In some cases, predictive, future-tense or forward-looking words such as "aim", "anticipate", "believe", "continue", "could", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "guidance", "intend", "may", "plan", "potential", "predict", "projected", "should" or "will" or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements. In addition, we and our representatives may from time to time make other oral or written statements which are forward-looking statements, including in our periodic reports that we file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, other information sent to our security holders, and other written materials. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. We caution you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are based on numerous assumptions and that our actual results of operations, including our financial condition and liquidity and the development of the industry in which we operate, may differ materially from (and be more negative than) those made in, or suggested by, the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement. Significant factors that may cause actual results to differ from those we expect include those discussed under "Risk Factors" in our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on March 24, 2021. In addition, even if our results of operations, including our financial condition and liquidity and the development of the industry in which we operate, are consistent with the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement, those results or developments may not be indicative of results or developments in subsequent periods.

Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement, whether as a result of new information, future events, a change in our views or expectations or otherwise.

SOURCE Burford Capital

Related Links

http://www.burfordcapital.com


OAKLAND, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Leaders from The Permanente Federation, Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) and American Medical Association will discuss the future of equitable care during a free Permanente Live webinar on September 22.

This virtual panel will explore how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges of achieving health equity. Access to care and vaccines has been mixed, with significant care gaps still apparent among Black, Indigenous and Latinx individuals. Panelists will discuss these disparities and the tangible solutions health organizations need to innovate and achieve quality care for all.

What: "Permanente Live: The future of equitable care" live webinar. Topics discussed will include:

Systemic factors contributing to health care inequity

Major barriers to health equity revealed by the pandemic

Steps health care organizations are taking now and can take in the future to address health equity

Improving quality by focusing on equitable care

Creating a common national framework for collectively achieving quality care for all

Who:

Nkem Chukwumerije , MD, MPH, FACP, president and executive medical director, The Southeast Permanente Medical Group, Atlanta metro area

president and executive medical director, The Southeast Permanente Medical Group, metro area Nancy Gin , MD, FACP, executive vice president for quality, and chief quality officer, The Permanente Federation

executive vice president for quality, and chief quality officer, The Permanente Federation Kedar Mate , MD, president and CEO, Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI)

president and CEO, Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Karthik Sivashanker , MD, vice president of Equitable Health Systems and Innovation, American Medical Association

The panel will be moderated by Stephen Parodi, MD, infectious disease physician with The Permanente Medical Group; and executive vice president of External Affairs, Communications, and Brand for The Permanente Federation, the national consulting group for the 8 Permanente Medical Groups, which provide care to more than 12.5 million Kaiser Permanente members.

When: Wednesday, September 22, 2021, 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Pacific time



Where: Register to attend this free virtual event (space is limited).

About The Permanente Federation

The Permanente Federation LLC is the national leadership and consulting organization for the eight Permanente Medical Groups, which, together with the Kaiser Foundation Health Plans and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, comprise Kaiser Permanente. The Federation works on behalf of the PMGs to optimize care delivery and spread Permanente Medicine  medicine that is person- and family-centered, compassionate, evidence-based, technology-enabled, culturally responsive, team-delivered and physician-led. The Federation, based in Oakland, California, fosters an open learning environment and accelerates research, innovation and performance improvements across the PMGs to expand the reach of Kaiser Permanente's integrated care delivery model and to lead the nation in transforming care delivery. To learn more about the Permanente Medical Groups, visit permanente.org .

SOURCE The Permanente Federation

Related Links

http://www.permanente.org


CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Philippines data center market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 11.40% during the period 20202026. Philippines data center market research report includes market size in terms of area, investment, power capacity, and colocation revenues. Get insights on 20 existing and 2 upcoming facilities spread across 6 Cities, including Manila and other cities including Cavite, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Manila, and Taguig.

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

1. The Philippines is an emerging market in Southeast Asia, with growth in the online gaming industry, emergence of the BPO industry, increased adoption of cloud, big data, and IoT, as well as cybersecurity and business continuity requirements driving the market over the next few years.

2. The Philippines receives majority of the data center service demand from ICT companies, followed by FMCG companies, BFSI, with hospitality, education, travel, and other industries accounting for the rest of the demand.

3. Manila is the leading data center market in Philippines, with 12 unique third-party data center facilities accounting for over 75% of the existing power capacity in the country.

4. PLDT and Globe Telecom deployed 5G network in the Philippines in 2020, which is likely to increase investments for data centers in coming years, especially the establishment of edge data center sites.

5. The Department of Energy in Philippines has set new renewable energy targets in its latest version of the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP). The program targets to achieve more than 37% renewable energy in the overall energy mix by 2030 and more than 55% by 2040.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Area, Power Capacity, Investment, and Colocation Revenue | 2020-2026

Impact of COVID-19 on Data Center Market

Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party facilities in the Philippines

Facilities Covered (Existing): 20



Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 2



Coverage: 2+ Cities



Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area)



Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Data center colocation market in the Philippines

Market Revenue & Forecast (2020-2026)



Retail Colocation Pricing

Market Dynamics  Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standard

Key Market Participants  List of 12 IT infrastructure providers, 6 construction service providers, 13 support infrastructure providers, and 6 data center investors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/philippines-data-center-market-investment-analysis

Philippines Data Center Market  Segmentation

In the Philippines , cloud-based services, IoT, and AI are the major driving factors for the growth of data centers and the adoption of high-power computing servers. ICT and financial service providers dominate server adoption in the Philippines . Vendors such as NetApp, Lenovo, IBM, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have a strong presence in the market.

, cloud-based services, IoT, and AI are the major driving factors for the growth of data centers and the adoption of high-power computing servers. ICT and financial service providers dominate server adoption in . Vendors such as NetApp, Lenovo, IBM, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have a strong presence in the market. Diesel generators are the most used generators in the market because of their configuration to support higher power capacity during outages. DRUPS solutions are likely to witness increase in demand for data centers with multiple modules, having a total capacity of up to 2 MW and N+N or 2N redundant configurations.

Data center operators are likely to adopt water-based cooling as the region does not support free cooling. ePLDT and NTT Communications data centers across the country have adopted water cooling systems with N+1 redundancy.

Market Segmentation by IT Infrastructure

Servers

Storage Systems

Network Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer, Switches & Switchgears

Rack PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Rack Cabinets

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by General Construction

Building Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building Design

Physical Security

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Market Segmentation by Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

Philippines Data Center Market  Dynamics

The Philippines is considered one of the emerging markets in Southeast Asia, with multiple technology companies planning to build data centers in the country. In 2021, Alibaba announced that it will launch a new data center facility in the Philippines by the end of the year. The facility will offer Elastic Compute Service (ECS), database, global network solution, Content Delivery Network (CDN), and storage services. The market is likely to witness the entry of Stratus DC Management, which plans data center development in Manila, Philippines, owing to the anticipatory demand for data centers by enterprises and cloud service providers looking to collocate their workloads. In 2021, Converge ICT Solutions announced its plans to build a new data center in Mandaue, Philippines, by investing over USD 20 million. The facility (P1) will be a six-story building and will initially have 300 racks.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Increased Cloud Adoption to Boost Market Growth

Big Data & IoT Spending to Drive Data Center Investment

COVID-19 to Boost Data Center Development

Submarine Cables to Strengthen Connectivity

Philippines Data Center Market - Existing Vs. Upcoming Data Centers

Existing Facilities in the region(Area and Power Capacity)

Manila



Other Cities (Cavite, Cebu, Clark, Davao, Manila , and Taguig)

List of Upcoming Facilities in the region(Area and Power Capacity)

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/philippines-data-center-market-investment-analysis

Key Market Participants

IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Broadcom

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Fujitsu

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Oracle

Data Center Construction Contractors & Sub-Contractors

Arup

Aurecon Group

Comfac

Data Center Design Corporation (DCDC)

First Balfour

PRONET

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Cyber Power Systems

Eaton

Fuji Electric

KOHLER

Legrand

Mitsubishi Electric

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Schneider Electric

Touchcore Solutions

Vertiv Group

Data Center Investors

Beeinfotech

Bitstop Network Services

Converge ICT Solutions

DITO Telecommunity

ePLDT

Globe Telecom

Explore our data center knowledge base profile to know more about the industry.

Read some of the top-selling reports:

About Arizton:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovation and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

We offer comprehensive market research reports on industries such as consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, and life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals and materials, IT and media, logistics and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered in generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

Mail: [email protected]

Call: +1-312-235-2040

+1 302 469 0707

SOURCE Arizton Advisory & Intelligence
DUBLIN, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

Highlights:

Financial 2020:

Underlying revenue in 2020 up 9%

Operating profit up 30%

Net Assets up 31%

Employee ownership up 15%

Momentum maintained into 2021

Job Creation:

400 new jobs announced, 200 in Ireland and 200 across Mainland Europe, UK, USA and Asia

New positions across a wide range of disciplines

Recruiting immediately

PM Group, the Irish headquartered international project delivery company, achieved operating profits of 34.8 million in 2020, an increase of 30% on 2019. This performance was achieved on the back of strong underlying fee income which was 9% up on prior year.

PM Group's overall revenue, which includes pass through revenue, increased to 398 million in 2020, up 16%. Pass through revenue is where the Group carries procurement and contract costs of behalf of clients. Net assets increased to 111 million up from 85 million in 2019, which combined with minimal debt, underpins the Group's ability to continue to invest in development and growth.

PM Group has a workforce of 3,200 people in Europe, North America and Asia, providing complex design, construction and delivery solutions to clients in pharma, food, mission critical, medtech and advanced manufacturing technology sectors.

The Group is employee owned with over 1,000 people holding shares in the Group, up 15% on prior year.

PM Group is creating 400 new jobs this year across a range of disciplines including architecture, engineering, construction, data analytics, project controls and Environmental. Of these, 200 positions will be based in Ireland. Recruitment for the new positions is already underway.

Last month, the Group appointed a new Chair, Brendan Jennings, who succeeds long standing Chair and Director, Dan Flinter. Prior to joining the Board, Brendan was CEO of Deloitte Ireland. In April, the Group appointed a new Chief Financial Officer, Rosita Fennell in succession to Larry Westman. Rosita held various financial positions within the Group and was most recently Company Secretary. She has also joined the Board.

Dave Murphy, Chief Executive of PM Group said: "Despite the enormous challenges posed by the global pandemic, our clients have continued to invest in developing their facilities and capacity right around the world. Many of the sectors and projects with which we are currently engaged, are actively dealing with the consequences of the pandemic.

"Therapeutics and vaccine manufacturing, food and beverage processing, medical devices and diagnostics as well as data centres are attracting significant investment to meet evolving market needs. Indeed, Pharma is a powerhouse sector for us with two-thirds of overall revenues generated in 2020 associated with the sector.

"The surge in investment has carried through to 2021, with international projects now accounting for more than 50% of Group activity for the first time in our history. We have set ourselves specific targets in our new five-year strategy in areas where we see strong growth potential in the years ahead. The development of a large-scale Electric Vehicle battery materials plant in Poland for Johnson Matthey, is a case in point.

"The growth of the business has created new opportunities for increasing employment, and we are pleased to be announcing 400 new jobs across a range of disciplines in Ireland and overseas. The attraction of working with experienced colleagues on exciting international projects for world leading organisations, combined with the potential to become an owner of PM Group in time, is a strong magnet for talent."

Dan Flinter, outgoing Chair of PM Group said: "The entire team across the Group deserves great credit for the performance delivered in 2020 and into this current year. This historic performance achieved new milestones in underlying fee income and profitability, further strengthening the balance sheet. The Group has also made important strides in living the commitment to corporate responsibility and on each of the six pillars of the Group's CR strategy.

"The Group's prioritisation of health and safety was recognised by the achievement of ISO45001 certification across a range of locations, exceptional safety awards in Ireland and the UK and continued reduction in incident rates. Over 13 million safe hours were delivered in 2020 across all services and locations, the majority of which were under Covid-19 restrictions."

Review of Operations 2020:

The Group continued to expand its target market into Europe and the US with major projects undertaken for MSD, Bayer, J&J, Johnson Matthey and Facebook.

The UK operation was up on prior year, accounting for 9% of 2020 Group revenues. While pharma was strong there were some delays experienced in other sectors given Covid-19 and Brexit uncertainties.

In Mainland Europe, which accounted for 29% of revenues, the Group experienced growth in each of Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland and Switzerland. In the Netherlands, a large animal health project was completed. The Group's growing Belgium unit is delivering a portfolio of pharma and datacentre projects. In Denmark, the Group is involved with a multi-year data centre programme for a global leader in that space. Poland experienced a record year on the back of major projects for Beiersdorf and Johnson Matthey. Switzerland reported strong year-on-year growth on the back of projects for Boehringer Ingelheim, Bayer, J&J and Roche. PM Group has also recently opened a new operation in Frankfurt to support its work in the German market.

In the US, PM Group's teams in Boston and San Francisco delivered further growth for key clients. Project highlights included Thermo Fisher's cell and gene therapy facility and EMD Serono's life science and research facility, both in Massachusetts and Genentech's new iNeST facility in Portland, Oregon. To support the growth in the US, PM Group has recently set up a third operation in Philadelphia.

PM Group activity in Asia accounted for 9% of Group revenue in 2020. Strong performance in China related to the delivery of projects for MSD, AstraZeneca, Geneception, Pernod Ricard and Nike. The Singapore office delivered significant projects for PepsiCo, Roche, Novartis and Boston Scientific. The Group's Bangalore operation, which now has more than 100 people, supports projects across all international business units as well as providing shared services.

About PM Group

Headquartered in Ireland, PM Group is an employee owned, international project delivery company with operations across Europe, the USA and Asia. With over 3,200 personnel, the Group has a 48-year track record in project management, process design, facility design and construction management for the world's leading multinational companies. PM Group is a global leader in the Pharma, Food, Mission Critical, Med-Tech and Advanced Manufacturing Technology sectors.

For reference:

Paul Clifford

Drury Communications

[email protected]

+353 87 327 2161

SOURCE PM Group

Related Links

https://www.pmgroup-global.com


BOSTON and LOS ANGELES, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Provident Healthcare Partners ("Provident"), a leading healthcare investment banking firm, announced that it has advised Advanced Memory Research Institute of New Jersey (renamed "CenExel AMRI") in its acquisition by CenExel Clinical Research ("CenExel"), a portfolio company of Webster Equity Partners. CenExel AMRI is the largest Alzheimer's Disease clinical research site in the Northeast. CenExel AMRI conducts Phase II and Phase II studies, with growing exposure to Phase IV studies, primarily in Alzheimer's Disease, Memory Loss, and Dementia. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

This acquisition further bolsters CenExel's experience in CNS trials, complementing the other nine Centers in the CenExel network with strong backgrounds in this therapeutic area. CenExel AMRI is led and was founded by Sanjiv K. Sharma, MD, who has over 20 years of experience caring for patients with memory challenges.

"CenExel AMRI will continue to be a pioneer in the Alzheimer's space, providing solutions for families and their loved ones," said Dr. Sharma, Founder and Principal Investigator at CenExel AMRI. "We look forward to this exciting new period of collaboration and growth, enabling us to offer greater peace of mind to more patients."

"CenExel AMRI's experienced team of principal investigators, nurses, raters, and coordinators provide the highest quality of research data and patient care. CenExel AMRI will perfectly complement CenExcel's existing business," notes Rebecca Leiba, Managing Director at Provident.

"Alzheimer's and similar indication diagnoses are continuing to rise, while medical professionals lack the therapeutic tools necessary to treat patients. In partnership with CenExel, CenExel AMRI will have the opportunity to expand its crucial work and further contribute to medical advancements for these Alzheimer's patients and their families," notes Bill Bolding, Associate at Provident.

About Advanced Memory Research Institute

The vision for AMRI began in 2013 with the recognition that patients in the region and in the greater Tri-State area did not have access to the latest clinical trials and research in neurological diseases. For more than a decade, AMRI's team of experts have been pioneers in the advancement of medical research though highly specialized clinical trial execution. With their New Jersey site located in the epicenter of an aging population, AMRI is uniquely positioned to help sponsors speed Alzheimer's disease related therapeutics to market as quickly and safely as possible. For additional information, visit https://amrinj.com/.

About CenExel

CenExel Clinical Research (http://www.CenExel.com) provides unparalleled medical and scientific support in the design and execution of clinical trials. CenExel's therapeutic area focus and attention to detail assures quality, reliable results and has helped CenExel to consistently achieve and exceed patient recruitment goals. CenExel Centers of Excellence have conducted thousands of studies, the variety and complexity of which have resulted in a vast depth of experience and insight for the Principal Investigators and research staff in each facility. The CenExel Centers of Excellence deliver the engagement, expertise, and results to ensure that their clients achieve their clinical research goals.

About Webster Equity Partners

Founded in 2003, Webster Equity invests in healthcare services companies with high impact growth strategies that deliver the highest quality care and extraordinary service. Webster is currently investing out of its fourth fund with $875 million of committed capital. For additional information, visit https://websterequitypartners.com/.

About Provident Healthcare Partners

Provident is a leading healthcare investment banking firm specializing in merger and acquisition advisory, strategic planning, and capital formation for healthcare companies. The firm has a comprehensive knowledge of market sectors and specialties, including a significant track record of success within pharma services. Provident also has unsurpassed experience and insight into the M&A process, which includes working with a number of buyers such as private equity firms and strategic consolidators. For additional information, visit www.providenthp.com or follow on LinkedIn.

Contact: Provident Healthcare Partners

Gina Casiello

877-742-9800

SOURCE Provident Healthcare Partners LLC

Related Links

http://www.providenthp.com


HOUSTON, Texas, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Solugen , the company decarbonizing the chemicals industry, announced a Series C financing round of over $350 million. GIC and Baillie Gifford led the round with participation from Temasek Holdings, funds and accounts managed by BlackRock, Carbon Direct Capital Management, Refactor Capital, and Fifty Years.

Solugen is addressing one of the biggest climate problems facing the international community, emissions from chemical production, which the IEA estimates accounted for 880 million tonnes of CO2 in 2018 and was the third largest source of global CO2 emissions. Solugen's patented Bioforge processes produce chemicals from bio-based feedstocks and are based on breakthroughs in synthetic biology, metal catalyst engineering, and modular plant design. The company's green products are cost competitive and also drastically reduce or eliminate emissions. Solugen is a platform chemistry company, and the company's solutions will also address clean water, sustainable materials, safer food, and healthy personal care.

"Our breakthroughs in enzyme and metal catalyst engineering allow us to produce chemicals in a more sustainable and profitable way," said Dr. Gaurab Chakrabarti, CEO and co-founder of Solugen. "We can now deliver for our customers performance benefits, cost savings, and most importantly, lower carbon footprints."

The latest round of funding will be used to expand Solugen's Bioforge technology platform, which is used to produce lower-carbon and carbon-negative chemicals & materials for its key customers, and to expand the reach of Solugen's product portfolio. Through its Bioforge platform, Solugen has the potential to address a significant portion of the chemical products on the market today as well as introduce novel, bio-advantaged products. Taken together, this would allow Solugen to decarbonize some of the largest carbon emitting segments of our modern economy.

"This fundraising round allows us to continue expanding the footprint of our Bioforge technology to give industries the products they need to reduce emissions in their existing supply chains, without compromising on performance or economics," said Solugen co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Dr. Sean Hunt.

Kirsty Gibson, investment manager at Baillie Gifford said: "Solugen's vision for cleaner chemicals through synthetic biology has the potential to be a fundamental shift in how chemicals are made, to help tackle the environmental challenges we face globally. The chemical market itself is colossal and Solugen is just getting started. Our investment on behalf of clients will help the company execute on this vision and scale its operations."

"Carbon dioxide from chemical production is a top three contributor to industrial greenhouse gas emissions," said Jonathan Goldberg, CEO of Carbon Direct. "Carbon Direct's mission is to help scale impactful carbon management technologies that will commercially scale. Solugen's critical breakthrough is delivering lower and potentially carbon negative solutions that are cost competitive to the market today. We are pleased to support Gaurab, Sean, and the Solugen team as they continue to decarbonize the chemicals industry."

BofA Securities, Inc. acted as sole placement agent on this transaction.

Contacts 

Lana Hansen, Solugen  [email protected]

About Solugen - https://www.solugen.bio/

Solugen's mission is to decarbonize the chemicals industry. Its comprehensive line of environmentally-friendly products help companies be responsible stewards of the environment and their local communities. Founded in 2016 by Gaurab Chakrabarti, M.D., Ph.D., and Sean Hunt, Ph.D., Solugen applies industrial biotechnology and green chemistry principles to re-design the production of a variety of end-use and novel chemicals.

SOURCE Solugen

Related Links

https://www.solugen.bio/


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard" or "we"), one of the largest stockholders of Box, Inc. ("Box" or the "Company") (NYSE: BOX), with an ownership stake of approximately 8.8% of the Company's outstanding shares, today announced that it has delivered an open letter to Box stockholders.

The full text of Starboard's open letter to Box stockholders follows and can also be viewed at the following link:

https://shareholdersforbox.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Starboard_Value_LP_Letter_to_BOX_Stockholders_09.09.2021.pdf

A LETTER TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF BOX, INC.

September 9, 2021

Dear Fellow Stockholders,

As you know, Starboard Value LP (together with its affiliates, "Starboard" or "we") is one of the largest stockholders of Box, Inc. ("Box" or the "Company"), with an ownership stake of approximately 8.8% of the Company's outstanding shares.

We invested in Box more than two years ago based on our view that the Company could significantly improve its performance and create substantial value after years of underperformance. From the outset, our only goal has been to help Box create long-term value for the benefit of all stockholders. We have pushed the Company to improve operations, corporate governance, executive compensation practices, and capital allocation with the goal of driving improved stockholder returns.

After failing to address issues in these areas prior to our involvement, some progress has been made under immense pressure from Starboard and other common stockholders over the past two years. During this campaign, independent proxy advisory firms Institutional Shareholder Services Inc., Glass, Lewis & Co., and Egan-Jones Proxy Services have all recognized our involvement as the key driver of the positive changes that have taken place at Box over the past two years.

Today, the Company is seeing mild improvements in growth trends and is significantly more profitable than it was prior to our involvement. Additionally, during the pendency of this election contest, Box has taken actions to appoint an independent Chair of the Board of Directors (the "Board") and remove the highly problematic supermajority voting requirement to amend the Charter and Bylaws, while committing to several other governance and compensation program enhancements. Although there is significantly more to be accomplished and serious issues still exist, these are positive steps. As a result, Box's stock price has increased by 71% since our Schedule 13D filing in September 20191, which stands in stark contrast to the (36%) decrease in Box's stock price from the day following its IPO to the day prior to our Schedule 13D filing2.

We are certainly disappointed by the results of this election, which were heavily skewed by the voting rights tied to the preferred equity financing and the use of stockholder capital to aggressively repurchase shares ahead of the record date from stockholders likely to support change. At this juncture, the future of Box is in the Board's hands, and there is a significant amount of work left to be done. Many commitments have been made, and we hope that Box will finally be able to follow through on its promises to drive improved results, accountability, governance, and compensation practices.

As this campaign concludes, we are appreciative of the support received from our fellow stockholders. As we have repeatedly stated, our only goal has been to help Box perform better and adopt best-in-class practices across operating performance, financial results, governance, and compensation in order to create long-term value for the benefit of all stockholders. We will continue to monitor progress at Box, and we hope to see the Company embrace the changes catalyzed by our involvement and create long-term value.

Respectfully,

Peter A. Feld

Managing Member

Starboard Value LP

About Starboard Value LP

Starboard Value LP is a New York-based investment adviser with a focused and differentiated fundamental approach to investing primarily in publicly traded U.S. companies. Starboard seeks to invest in deeply undervalued companies and actively engage with management teams and boards of directors to identify and execute on opportunities to unlock value for the benefit of all shareholders.

Investor contacts:

[email protected]

www.starboardvalue.com

_________________

1 Source: Capital IQ. Stock price performance represents performance from September 2, 2019, the day prior to the Schedule 13D filing to September 8, 2021.

2 Source: Capital IQ. Stock price performance prior to Schedule 13D filing represents performance from January 23, 2015, the day following Box's IPO to September 2, 2019.

SOURCE Starboard Value LP
Health Navigator offers a human-to-human concierge approach to help people confirm that they have the right diagnosis and understand their treatment options so they can make fully informed decisions, leading to better healthcare experiences and improved health outcomes. Personal Health Advisors give members high-touch, one-on-one support and guidance throughout their healthcare journey, leveraging relationships to connect them to the right medical providers from an extensive, national network of centers-of-excellence and top experts who specialize in their specific condition. A team of highly trained physicians, nurses and other medical experts provide support behind the scenes, offering in-depth medical knowledge and deep expertise in nuances of the healthcare system.

"When navigating the healthcare system, people need an advocate who can ensure they are being seen and heard, particularly when facing a serious health condition," said Jen Collier, R.N., senior vice president of Stop-Loss & Health at Sun Life U.S. "Health Navigator not only helps people manage their healthcare journey, it gives them peace of mind and support during a challenging and often scary time in their lives. As someone who has worked within the healthcare and health insurance sectors, I know that health navigation is invaluable and uniquely personal. We are thrilled to expand access to our self-funded clients and their medical plan members."

"High-touch care navigation is not typically available to most people, even though they should be offered to anyone confronting a serious diagnosis" said Miles Varn, M.D., CEO of PinnacleCare. "Digital rolodexes and standardized computer algorithms can't provide the level of attention and care offered by our Health Advisors who access our team's years of experience curating medical intelligence. By bringing care navigation to more workers and their families, we will expand access to care and help people make the best possible choices about their health."

Sun Life is offering the Health Navigator with stop-loss coverage, which covers high-dollar medical claims for employers who self-fund their health plans. Sun Life's holisitic approach helps the member with improved care and health outcomes that at the same time can lower costs for both member and employer. Sun Life is the largest independent stop-loss provider in the U.S., according to data contained in the 2020 NAIC Accident and Health Policy Experience Report. An independent stop-loss provider is defined as one that does not also sell medical claim administration services.

Sun Life acquired PinnacleCare in July (click here for acquisition fact sheet). As the new Health Navigator rolls out through Sun Life's employer clients, PinnacleCare will continue supporting its individual clients who have engaged their services directly.

About Sun Life

Sun Life is a leading international financial services organization providing insurance, wealth and asset management solutions to individual and corporate Clients. Sun Life has operations in a number of markets worldwide, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia and Bermuda. As of June 30, 2021, Sun Life had total assets under management of C$1.36 trillion. For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com.

Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippine (PSE) stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF.

In the United States, Sun Life is one of the largest group benefits providers, serving more than 55,000 employers in small, medium and large workplaces across the country. Sun Life's broad portfolio of insurance products and services in the U.S. includes disability, absence management, life, dental, vision, voluntary, supplemental health and medical stop-loss. Sun Life and its affiliates in asset management businesses in the U.S. employ approximately 5,500 people. Group insurance policies are issued by Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (Wellesley Hills, Mass.), except in New York, where policies are issued by Sun Life and Health Insurance Company (U.S.) (Lansing, Mich.). For more information, please visit www.sunlife.com/us.

Media contacts:

Devon Fernald

Sun Life U.S.

781-800-3609

[email protected]

Anjie Coplin

Sun Life U.S.

469-938-1050

[email protected]

Connect with Sun Life U.S.

https://www.facebook.com/SLFUnitedStates

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sun-life-financial

https://twitter.com/SunLifeUS

SOURCE Sun Life U.S.

Related Links

www.sunlife.com/us


TELTOW, Germany and IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for the virtual EURETINA 2021 meeting, OD-OS launches additional remote access capabilities for its Navilas Laser System 577s to address common challenges in ophthalmology which were enhanced during the pandemic. The new teleguidance capabilities give doctors remote access to the device to pre-plan a retinal laser treatment, review treatment plans stored on the device, and to observe live treatments performed by a novice user. This distant access makes expert knowledge available independent from physical presence in times when resources are limited. At the same time, this supports tele-education scenarios where students observe treatments remotely without the need for a larger group to meet on-site in the clinic, e.g. due to social distancing protocols.

Ophthalmologists can book a virtual demo to test hands-on access to the Navilas laser in a simulated treatment scenario via the OD-OS website www.od-os.com/teleguidance.

Dr. med. Simo Murovski, Augenzentrum Erzgebirge, Germany: "Planning retinal laser treatments remotely and virtually assisting young colleagues allows us to focus on what is important, namely efficient, targeted treatment for the benefit of the patient. Who would have thought 10 years ago that something like this can be possible."

Watch video on clinical experiences with Navilas Teleguidance: https://youtu.be/OmiKQU3rP8w

Picture is available at AP Images (http://www.apimages.com)

Navilas is a fully fledged laser treatment system for common retinal applications. It combines precise and fast1,2 laser therapy with advanced patient comfort, reporting, teaching, and advanced connectivity via integration of external diagnostic images and a DICOM interface. The color fundus image of the all-digital Navilas Laser System provides better overview during treatment. Exclusion boundaries on sensible areas like the fovea and the optic disk combined with the integrated eye tracking allow for tracked and therefore highly precise lasering.3 As a result, over the past years navigated laser technology has been adopted by leading institutions around the world.

Dr. Igor Kozak, Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: "Navigation continues to transform surgical interventions into safer, more standardized and more predictable procedures with finally better outcomes for patients. Adding teleguidance to navigated laser broadens the possibilities for teaching and remote expert collaboration in retinal laser care."

To learn more about distant learning, distant guidance and distant planning of retinal laser treatments, watch the webinar with Dr. Igor Kozak who published pioneer work in the field4: www.od-os.com/teleguidance

1) Chhablani J, Mathai A, Rani P, Gupta V, Arevalo JF, Kozak I. Comparison of conventional pattern and novel navigated panretinal photocoagulation in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2014 May 1;55(6):3432-8. doi: 10.1167/iovs.14-13936. PubMed PMID: 24787564.

2) Amoroso F, Pedinielli A, Astroz P, et al. Comparison of pain experience and time required for pre-planned navigated peripheral laser versus conventional multispot laser in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. Acta Diabetol. November 2019. doi:10.1007/s00592-019-01455-x

3) Liesfeld, Ben et al: Navigating Comfortably across the Retina; World Congress on Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, 2009

4) Teleophthalmology Image-Based Navigated Retinal Laser Therapy for Diabetic Macular Edema: A Concept of Retinal Telephotocoagulation. Kozak, Igor, John F. Payne, Patrik Schatz, Eman Al-Kahtani, and Moritz Winkler. "Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, April 26, 2017.

About OD-OS: OD-OS GmbH is a privately-held medical device company founded in 2008 with offices in Teltow, Germany, and Irvine, CA. https://www.od-os.com



For further information, please contact: Stefanie Gehrke, Director Sales and Marketing | [email protected], +49 (172) 3808 537

OD-OS GmbH | Warthestr. 21 | 14513 Teltow | Germany

SOURCE OD-OS GmbH
WALTHAM, Mass., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE: TMO), the world leader in serving science, announced that it will host a virtual Investor Day on Friday, September 17, 2021, starting at 9:00 a.m. and expected to conclude by 11:00 a.m. (EDT).

The virtual format will feature presentations by members of Thermo Fisher Scientific's senior management team and conclude with a Q&A session.

You can access the live webcast of the presentation via the Investors section of our website, www.thermofisher.com. A replay of the webcast will be available following the presentation.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with annual revenue exceeding $30 billion. Our Mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Whether our customers are accelerating life sciences research, solving complex analytical challenges, improving patient diagnostics and therapies or increasing productivity in their laboratories, we are here to support them. Our global team of more than 80,000 colleagues delivers an unrivaled combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and pharmaceutical services through our industry-leading brands, including Thermo Scientific, Applied Biosystems, Invitrogen, Fisher Scientific, Unity Lab Services and Patheon. For more information, please visit www.thermofisher.com.

Media Contact Information:

Ron O'Brien

Phone: 781-622-1242

E-mail: [email protected]

Website: www.thermofisher.com



Investor Contact Information:

Rafael Tejada

Phone: 781-622-1356

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE Thermo Fisher Scientific

Related Links

http://www.thermofisher.com


SAN DIEGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Uqora, the leading urinary health brand, has not only been included among the 100 companies on the San Diego Business Journal's 2021 list of Best Places to Work, it ranked fifth overall in the small companies category (15-49 employees).

"Here at Uqora our ethos is to treat every customer like a close friend, and we apply that same belief to our employees. As leadership, we work hard to support our employees, but it takes every team member to build a great company cultureI feel lucky to work with so many smart and passionate people," said Jenna Ryan, Uqora CEO and Co-founder.

Uqora provides its employees with significant benefits including unlimited PTO, retirement plan options, generous medical coverage across health, dental and vision, internal programs promoting diversity and inclusion initiatives, and other programs emphasizing team culture.

The San Diego Business Journal judges all entrants on employee survey data and an analysis of company benefits, culture and work environment. The anonymous employee survey asks a series of questions for direct feedback to assess the average level of satisfaction across company compensation, benefits, vacation policies and company culture.

Founded in 2017 by partners Jenna Ryan and Spencer Gordon, Uqora addresses urinary health issues with a combination of reactive solutions and proactive care. The company is undergoing rapid growth and was recently acquired by Pharmavite, the makers of Nature Made vitamins and supplements. For career opportunities, you can view the Uqora career page here: https://uqora.com/careers

About Uqora

Uqora ( www.uqora.com ) makes innovative UTI relief products and proactive care supplements. UTIs are the second most common infection in the U.S., second only to the common cold. Despite the magnitude, there's been little progress and innovation for years. Uqora is proud to be changing that. Since launching in 2017, Uqora's been able to help nearly 200,000 people stay healthy. Uqora is very focused on creating exceptional products and a vibrant, collaborative community of customers. Recently, Uqora was acquired by Pharmavite, the owner of Nature Made, which will enable Uqora to go deeper on research and expand its reach.

SOURCE Uqora
Global Dispensing Systems Market to Reach $46 Billion by 2026

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Dispensing Systems estimated at US$37.1 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$46 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 3.6% over the analysis period. Robotic Dispensing System, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 4.1% CAGR and reach US$23 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Semi-Robotic Dispensing System segment is readjusted to a revised 3.7% CAGR for the next 7-year period.



The U.S. Market is Estimated at $10.3 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $9.5 Billion by 2026

The Dispensing Systems market in the U.S. is estimated at US$10.3 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$9.5 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 6.6% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 1% and 2.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 1.8% CAGR.



Manual Dispensing System Segment to Reach US$8.2 Billion by the year 2026

In the global Manual Dispensing System segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 1.5% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$5.5 Billion in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$6.1 Billion by the close of the analysis period. China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. More



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NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wheels Up (NYSE:UP) today announced that members of its executive management team will present at the Raymond James Consumer Conference on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. The presentation will begin at approximately 9:20 AM ET. Wheels Up management will also be available for 1x1 investor meetings.

The presentation will be webcast live and can be accessed via this link or by visiting the Events & Presentations page of our Investor Relations website.

About Wheels Up

Wheels Up Experience Inc. ("Wheels Up"), a leading demand generator in private aviation, offers a total private aviation solution that includes world-class safety, service, and flexibility through on-demand flights, membership programs, corporate solutions, aircraft management, whole aircraft sales, and commercial travel benefits through a strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines. Wheels Up, which was founded and is led by renowned entrepreneur Kenny Dichter, is uniquely positioned to offer its Customers and Members access to over 1,500 safety-vetted and verified aircraft.

Through the Wheels Up App anyone can search, book, and fly. Wheels Up Connect, Core, and Business memberships provide enhancements such as flight sharing, empty-leg Hot Flights, Shuttle Flights, Shared Flights, signature Wheels Down events, and exclusive member benefits from preeminent lifestyle brands. The Company's ongoing Wheels Up Cares program aligns with philanthropic organizations and initiatives that affect and matter to the Company and its customers, members, stakeholders, families, and friends. The Wheels Up Cares fleet is comprised of five custom painted Beechcraft King Air 350i aircraft; each plane serves as a flying symbol for a specific cause.

All Wheels Up flights are operated by the Company's DOT/FAA-authorized air carrier subsidiaries (Wheels Up Private Jets LLC, Gama Aviation LLC, Mountain Aviation LLC, Sterling Aviation LLC, and TWC Aviation LLC) or by an approved vendor air carrier that has undergone a comprehensive safety assessment.

Contacts

Investors:

[email protected]

Media:

JONESWORKS:

[email protected]

SOURCE Wheels Up
DENVER, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Willow Industries and Pioneer Valley Extracts announced today their landmark partnership to implement Willow's patented decontamination technology at PVx's processing center in Northampton, MA. The WillowPure Processing Center by Pioneer Valley Extracts will provide Massachusetts' cannabis producers with an organic and efficient option for cleaning cannabis.

The newly expanded facility enables the company to clean up to 100 pounds of cannabis per day using its WillowPure 360 controlled-ozone system. The process removes harmful microbes without degrading essential medicinal and chemical properties of the plant, while extending shelf-life.

"Massachusetts has done a great job protecting consumers with regulations that uphold clean, high-quality cannabis," says Jill Ellsworth, Willow Industries CEO and Founder. "This facility is in sync with the foundation set by regulators and gives cultivators a flagship technology to sustain those standards. With the success of the WillowPure Processing Center in California, we're excited to bring our WillowPure technology to the booming east coast market with Pioneer Valley Extracts."

With years of experience from their first processing center in Oakland, CA, Willow is a perfect fit for MA's stringent testing environment. Licensed cultivators can schedule service and bring their product to be cleaned by PVx's WillowPure experts, ensuring METRC compliance. PVx is an industry leader, with products in dispensaries throughout Massachusetts and a history of driving innovation through cutting edge technology.

"We couldn't be more excited to be partnering with Willow Industries," says David Cichocki, Co-Founder of Pioneer Valley Extracts. "There is a real need in the Massachusetts market for a safe, clean decontamination process. With WillowPure, we can continue our commitment to providing Massachusetts cannabis producers and consumers with the cleanest, highest quality products on the market."

With a per-pound pricing structure, the WillowPure Processing Center is the most affordable, non-extraction-based decontamination solution available.

About Willow Industries:

Willow Industries is the industry leader in post-harvest microbial decontamination for healthier cannabis to protect consumer safety. WillowPure, the company's patented, organic ozone-based technology is scientifically proven to reduce or eliminate contaminants such as yeast, mold and bacteria from cannabis, while protecting the medicinal properties of the plant. Willow's technology is environmentally friendly, non-toxic, and scalable for all types of operators. Learn more at www.willowindustries.com.

About Pioneer Valley Extracts:

Pioneer Valley Extracts (Pvx) is a leading cannabis manufacturer based in Massachusetts with a passion for bringing the healing and elevating powers of the cannabis plant to everyday consumers. PVx provides manufacturing services across the industry, including extraction, third-party packaging and distribution. Under its flagship brand, Pioneer Valley Cannabis Company, it produces an assortment of cannabis products including pre-rolls, vape and chocolates. PVx is committed to using the cleanest technologies in its state of the art facility and to choosing the highest-quality local ingredients for its hand-crafted, precision dosed products.

Learn more at ww.pvxtracts.com.

SOURCE Willow Industries

Related Links

http://www.willowindustries.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Women In Development (WID), New York, announces its 2021-2022 leadership and event schedule for the year. WID's mission is to empower, connect, and engage women in a community that fosters professional growth and leadership, while advancing the field.

Says President Yolanda F. Johnson, "As we begin another program year, we look forward to connecting with everyone at our virtual gatherings. And of course, I will be the first to greet attendees with the most sincere smile whenever the time does come that we can truly join together again in-person safely."

Officers for 2021-2022:

President: Yolanda F. Johnson, YFJ Consulting, LLC

President-Elect: Marcela Hahn, Bank Street College of Education

Secretary: Jill Slattery, London School of Economics

Treasurer: Lane Richards Peace, James Lenox House/Carnegie East House

VP Programs: Svetlana Mostovsky, Catalyst, Inc.

Upcoming Events Include:

Women Who Lead  Presented by the WID President's Council, this is part three of a three-part virtual series of conversations with exceptional women that began in spring 2021. ( September 23, 2021 , 6:00 p.m. )

 Presented by the WID President's Council, this is part three of a three-part virtual series of conversations with exceptional women that began in spring 2021. ( , ) Deconstructing Development - This virtual series, originally developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, brings the fundraising community direct access to experts in areas important to achieving professional success. ( October 14, 2021 ; December 2, 2021 ; February 15, 2022 ; March 16, 2022 ; 12:00 p.m. )

This virtual series, originally developed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, brings the fundraising community direct access to experts in areas important to achieving professional success. ( ; ; ; ; ) Moving Up/Moving On  This WID stalwart returns after a multiple-year hiatus! Enjoy networking and gaining tips and tools for how to determine where you'd like to be in your career, and how to get there. ( October 20, 2021 , 6:00 p.m. )

 This WID stalwart returns after a multiple-year hiatus! Enjoy networking and gaining tips and tools for how to determine where you'd like to be in your career, and how to get there. ( , ) Insider Breakfast  Join us bright and early for an exclusive insider's view of development operations at our host organizations, all of which boast great success in raising much-needed funds for their missions. ( November 10, 2021 , 8:00 a.m. )

Join us bright and early for an exclusive insider's view of development operations at our host organizations, all of which boast great success in raising much-needed funds for their missions. ( , ) I to I: A Structured Networking Experience  This popular workshop is designed for making genuine contacts and discussing meaningful topics in a small group setting. ( March 22, 2022 , 6:00 p.m. )

 This popular workshop is designed for making genuine contacts and discussing meaningful topics in a small group setting. ( , ) Woman of Achievement Award Luncheon  The Woman of Achievement Award Luncheon is WID's highest profile, signature event. Its purpose is to recognize and promote the achievements of a distinguished colleague who has demonstrated extraordinary service to the field of development and philanthropy, to celebrate the profession and its contributions to the nonprofit sector and society. ( June 17, 2022 , 12:00 p.m. )

CONTACT:

Briana Belbeck

212-265-7650

[email protected]

SOURCE Women In Development
"This creates the most capable, geospatially focused and technologically diverse geospatial firm in the country." Tweet this

Optimal GEO COO Mark Brooks said this acquisition takes this successful team one step further.

"Our clients have seen how well we work together and how effectively we communicate and collaborate to get each project done," Brooks said. "We have our defined roles, with geospatial experts in places they need to be, and that isn't going to change. We have always enjoyed working and teaming with Woolpert, and this is just a natural evolution of where we should be heading. We are building on a foundation that works for clients and works for us."

With this merger, Optimal GEO will expand its services internationally, triple its capacity to serve clients, and enhance its geospatial offerings with in-house architecture, engineering and consulting expertise. Optimal GEO also will have access to industry-leading geospatial technology and equipment, including Woolpert's fleet of aircraft and sensors, and its more than 100 employees will net additional professional development opportunities.

Woolpert will add to its bathymetric and geospatial intelligence expertise, extend its geospatial presence in the southeastern U.S. and gain a data processing hub in Alabama to support current and future clients and contracts. Woolpert Senior Vice President Joseph Seppi said Optimal GEO's deep federal contracting experience and highly respected position in the industry will help strengthen long-term client relationships, while diversifying others.

"This proven combination of Optimal GEO and Woolpert creates the most capable, geospatially focused and technologically diverse geospatial firm in the country," Seppi said. "These expanded geospatial services, combined with our AEG capabilities, enable us to provide integrated solutions to address diverse client needs."

Woolpert CEO Scott Cattran said he is honored to welcome Optimal GEO to the Woolpert family of companies.

"Culture drives our company's growth and success, fostering an environment of respect and empowerment," Cattran said. "In Optimal GEO, we found an industry leader with whom we have had proven success and who shares our core values and our progressive culture. On top of that, they are just an outstanding group to be around. We're very excited that our longtime partner is becoming a permanent member of our Woolpert family."

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG) and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is an ENR Top 150 Global Design Firm, recently earned its fifth-straight Great Place to Work certification and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. The firm has over 1,300 employees and 42 offices in three countries. For more, visit woolpert.com.

About Optimal GEO

Optimal GEO is a small business geospatial firm that specializes in executing a full range of geospatial services including photogrammetric mapping, orthoimagery, lidar, GIS and geospatial intelligence. Our team is well versed and has a long history in providing these services to the defense and intelligence communities. As a passionate and exceedingly capable small business, we stand together with our clients from the development of their goals, through technical project execution and identification of future geospatial strategies. Optimal GEO provides expert guidance in geospatial solutions that put the needs of the end user up front while saving clients time and money through the streamlining of resources. Optimal GEO's clients include federal and state government entities including the United States Department of Defense. For more information, visit optimalgeo.com or call 256-882-7788.

CONTACT: Woolpert PR Manager Jill Kelley; 937-531-1258, [email protected]

SOURCE Woolpert

Related Links

http://www.woolpert.com


A blurring balm enriched with Beet Root Extract, Elderberry Extract and Sea Moss that is used to prime and prep the skin before makeup application, or worn alone to virtually even out skin tone, erase fine lines and skin imperfections creating a flawless, hyper-natural, 'your-skin-but-better' look and feel.

Zero+ Face + Eyes + Lips Enhancer

An all-over, multi-tasking skin enhancer that can be used on the cheeks, lips and eyes as a 1 minute makeup that delivers a hint of color and an ultimate dewy glow while moisturizing and protecting the skin. It features a blend of Squalane, Sea Moss, and Elderberry Extract.

Zero+ Brow Shaper + Styler

A multi-functional creamy pomade with flexible hold to style and condition brows, beards and flyaways. Infused with Jamaican Black Castor Oil and Fenugreek.

Zero+ Packaging Line

This zero plastic, plant-based packaging line was developed with the mission of offering solutions that align with WWP Beauty's "6R's of Sustainability." The Zero+ packaging collection closely represents Reduce, Replace, Respect and Rebirth because it is responsibly and locally sourced from farm waste which does not interrupt the food chain supply and reduces its overall carbon footprint of the material and final component. Ultimately, this packaging helps promote a circular economy, reducing waste and utilizing renewable resources.

"Now more than ever, we are seeing beauty consumers increasingly adopt streamlined beauty routines based on multifunctional products - born from the desire to buy more sustainably, while also simply saving time and money," said Musa Dias, CMO of WWP Beauty. "The Zero+ Collection was developed based on the concept that less is truly more, and that creating zero waste is in turn creating positive value for both the end-user and the environment."

All items in this collection are made with clean, compliant, vegan and cruelty-free formulas and sustainable packaging and accessory options. This collection demonstrates the company's unwavering commitment to reducing its global carbon footprint, supporting a circular economy throughout the cosmetics industry and working towards creating a more sustainable, clean and inclusive future.

About WWP Beauty

WWP Beauty is committed to developing future-focused, sustainable solutions for the global beauty industry through close collaboration, exceptional agility, and unparalleled scale. The company's full-service offering of formula, packaging and accessories, paired with their in-house manufacturing capabilities allow them to stand out as the source for everything beauty. Through a worldwide team of beauty experts that span across North America, EMEA and APAC, WWP Beauty offers their customers global support at the local level. To learn more, visit our website at www.wwpbeauty.com.

Contact: Caitlin Bishop

Turchette Agency

(973) 227-8080 ext. 129

[email protected]

SOURCE WWP Beauty

Related Links

http://www.wwpbeauty.com


Many of Yemen's hospitals have been depleted of the necessary medical equipment and supplies required to address the healthcare needs of a population suffering high levels of malnutrition and disease outbreaks such as cholera, according to Elizabeth Sohail, program manager at Baitulmaal.

"Without basic healthcare, an illness like cholera can kill," said Sohail. "Thanks to our donors, thousands of lives are likely going to be saved by just having the supplies that they may have otherwise gone without."

Yemen's humanitarian situation remains the worst in the world, according to the United Nations. An estimated 24 million people out of a population of 29 million are in need of healthcare support, while less than half of Yemen's healthcare facilities are still operational.

Since 2018, Baitulmaal has sent over $10.6 million in aid that provided meals, antibiotics, medical supplies, and hygiene kits to Yemen. If you would like to learn more about or contribute to the emergency aid programs at Baitulmaal, please visit their website at baitulmaal.org.

Baitulmaal is an international humanitarian aid organization that provides lifesaving, life-sustaining and life-enriching aid to people in need around the world. With headquarters in Dallas, the charity has offices in Los Angeles, Chicago and Detroit as well as international offices in Jordan, Kenya and Pakistan.

Media Contact:

John M. Janney, APR

[email protected]

(972) 823-0136

Photos available at https://baitulmaal.org/4-6-million-in-medical-supplies-distributed-in-yemen/

SOURCE Baitulmaal, Inc.

Related Links

https://baitulmaal.org


ATLANTA, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 1,000 mechanical, electrical and plumbing trade professionals and construction industry representatives in 40 U.S. states, 15 countries and 6 continents attended the MEP Force 2021 Virtual Conference, presented by MEP industry leaders Applied Software and eVolve MEP. The event, which was held August 30 to September 1, 2021, included three in-person "Block Parties," plus a livestream telecast.

Keynote speaker Dan McCarthy, CEO of Dodge Data & Analytics, kicked off the conference with his insights about the industry's digital transformation journey and the message that "culture is the biggest obstacle." Amy Marks, popular in the industry as Autodesk's "Queen of Prefab," participated in a roundtable discussion about industrialized construction and data, rather than design, for manufacturing and assembly. In line with the 2021 adage "Indestructible," Angie Simon, President of SMACNA, lauded construction companies for surviving "even a pandemic and coming out ahead."

eVolve MEP announced version 5.0 for eVolve Electrical and eVolve Mechanical, as well as new eVolve Materials.

Educational breakout sessions included such varied topics as leveraging data, asset management, debt, facility workload, bills of materials, marketing, fabrication, scheduling, Bluebeam Revu, and supply chain issues.

The industry has a tradition of peers sharing their challenges and successes, and the Block Parties in Atlanta, GA, Austin, TX and Denver, CO enabled networking both in-person and remotely through livestreaming.

"With over 70 breakout sessions featuring innovative technologies and learning opportunities for attendees, it was encouraging to see the community come together with high levels of engagement during sessions," said Richard Burroughs, president and founder of Applied Software. "We are pleased this conference can help companies be indestructible."

Along with blog updates and daily recaps, podcast commentary sessions were recorded and can be found on-demand at the Bridging the Gap podcast, winner of the 2020 Best Construction Podcast.

About Applied Software

Applied Software, a full-service premier systems integrator for the AEC, MEP, fabrication and manufacturing industries, is on a mission to transform industries by empowering our clients and championing innovation with real-world expert consultants. With a broad range of world-class solutions, services and training, Applied has been helping clients achieve a competitive advantage since 1982. For more information visit www.asti.com.

For more information:

Todd Weyandt (404)564-1843 [email protected]

Applied Software Technology Inc. www.asti.com



SOURCE Applied Software

Related Links

https://www.asti.com


EIGHTY FOUR, Pa., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- 84 Lumber, the nation's largest privately held building materials supplier, is launching a recruitment effort to fill immediate openings in Buffalo, NY. The company will host a Hiring Event on September 15th from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the company's Buffalo location (3317 Walden Avenue, Depew, NY 14043).

At the event, job seekers will learn more about the company culture and get the opportunity to be interviewed for open positions in the area that include manager trainees (MT), warehouse and forklift associates, and window service technicians. Qualified job seekers may receive an offer of employment during the event.

"84 Lumber is seeking to fill 10 open positions at our Buffalo retail store to add to our team of more than 60 employees in the area," said Phil Garuccio, divisional vice president at 84 Lumber. "We're growing along with the growth in the construction industry  here in Buffalo and across the nation. We're looking for people seeking a fresh start."

Garuccio went on to detail the openings in the region:

Manager trainees (MTs) hired by 84 Lumber enter an intensive, one-on-one, on-the-job training program that teaches them about the company's business and puts them on a path to become a future leader within the enterprise. Starting compensation for manager trainees is $41,000 per year.





hired by 84 Lumber enter an intensive, one-on-one, on-the-job training program that teaches them about the company's business and puts them on a path to become a future leader within the enterprise. Starting compensation for manager trainees is per year. Warehouse and forklift associates need no prior experience and perform essential functions behind the scenes  from the management of supply shipments to the operation of forklifts and other equipment. These associates can expect a starting pay of up to $14 per hour.





need no prior experience and perform essential functions behind the scenes  from the management of supply shipments to the operation of forklifts and other equipment. These associates can expect a starting pay of up to per hour. Window service technicians are responsible for servicing windows sold to builders, including the installation of windows and screens, stocking inventory, and window and door inspections. Starting compensation for these technicians is based on experience.

Garuccio added that 84 Lumber expects it might find the right fit from all types of candidates  an individual with no construction experience, military veterans ready to embark on their next career challenge, or people with some previous work experience who seek to redirect their career.

"We are a family-owned company, which means we are committed to helping our employees build and cultivate a career with us. In fact, 95% of our store managers started in our manager trainee program," Garuccio said. "As we see it, 84 Lumber recruits individuals with a can-do attitude, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to learn. Once we find these people and they join the company, we teach and train them and find ways for them to grow with us."

Candidates interested in participating in the Hiring Event are asked to pre-register. To sign up, go to 84 Lumber's Hiring Page and complete the form. Once you are registered, you will receive an email from 84 Lumber with the link to apply for the desired position. To save time, candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for positions online before they attend the event.

NOTE: 84 Lumber continues to follow CDC safety guidelines with regard to COVID-19. We ask that those attendees who are not yet fully vaccinated wear a mask and maintain social distancing.

To learn more about 84 Lumber, follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

ABOUT 84 LUMBER

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania, 84 Lumber Company is the nation's largest privately held supplier of building materials, manufactured components and industry-leading services for single- and multi-family residences and commercial buildings. The company operates nearly 250 stores, component manufacturing plants, custom door shops, custom millwork shops and engineered wood product centers in more than 30 states. 84 Lumber also offers turnkey installation services for a variety of products, including framing, insulation, siding, windows, roofing, decking and drywall. A certified national women's business enterprise owned by Maggie Hardy Knox, 84 Lumber was named by Forbes as one of America's Largest Private Companies in 2018 and one of America's Best Large Employers in 2019. For more information, visit 84lumber.com or join us at Facebook.com/84lumber and linkedin.com/company/84-lumber .

SOURCE 84 Lumber

Related Links

http://84lumber.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A-Street Ventures ("A-Street"), an investment fund focused on seeding and scaling innovative student learning and achievement solutions for students, families, and schools, today announced it will be making a strategic investment in Teaching Strategies, the leading provider of curriculum, assessment, professional development and family engagement tools to the early childhood education ("ECE") market, marking the debut investment for A-Street. The minority investment is being made alongside KKR's agreement to acquire Teaching Strategies from Summit Partners, which was announced in July. Financial details of the investment and transaction were not disclosed.

A-Street Ventures, which launched in June, plans to invest in a mix of early-, growth- and late-stage ventures, with a focus on improving student outcomes and closing equity gaps through digital instructional materials, curriculum and new paradigms for student assessment.

"The A-Street team knows education. They will bring not just capital and a strong mission alignment, but a deep understanding of the field to bear on the next chapter of our story," said John Olsen, CEO of Teaching Strategies. "We know that their collaboration will not only help to sustain and drive our growth and impact, but it will also benefit the children, educators, and families we serve."

Teaching Strategies connects educators, children and families to inspired teaching and learning experiences through its early learning platform. Teaching Strategies' research-based resources are found in over 270,000 classrooms and have served more than 15 million children across the globe during the critical, formative years from birth through third grade. Teaching Strategies employs a whole-child teaching philosophy designed to support and nurture all areas of children's development and learning, from social-emotional and cognitive skills to literacy, math and science.

"Founded by an early childhood educator, Teaching Strategies has for more than 40 years developed resources that support the critical work of early childhood educators, parents and families in ways that are deeply aligned with our focus on education as a powerful engine of social mobility," said Marc Sternberg, Founder and Managing Director of A-Street Ventures. "Teaching Strategies' research-based digital solutions are empowering and inspiring early childhood educators and helping children in their formative years receive a higher-quality learning experience. We look forward to supporting the company as it continues on this critical mission and unlocks new and innovative ways to teach our youngest learners."

"We are proud to be working together with A-Street Ventures, a pioneering supporter of innovation in education, whose guiding principles align perfectly with those of Teaching Strategies: to empower our teachers and their students through the best possible content and services," said Richard Sarnoff and Webster Chua, Partners at KKR.

About A-Street Ventures

A-Street Ventures is a privately sponsored investment fund with a strategic focus on seeding and scaling innovative K- 12 student learning and achievement solutions for students, families, and schools. A-Street intends to invest in a mix of early-, growth- and late-stage ventures, with a current focus on digital-first instructional materials in curriculum and new paradigms for student assessment. A-Street was founded because the time is now for big leaps forward in how students learn, and for what teaching and learning can look like; for lifting up the teaching profession by reorienting the teacher to his or her most sacred task: the human-centered work of facilitating learning; for leveraging digital-forward tools to accelerate learning; and for leaning into the surging digital access, breakthrough, and platforms that can transform at long last the Industrial Age classroom and into the modern hub of learning. For additional information about A-Street Ventures, please visit https://www.astreet.ventures/ and on Twitter @astreetventures.

About Teaching Strategies

With a strong belief that a child's first eight years form a critical foundation for success in school and in life, Teaching Strategies has been an advocate for the early education community for over 40 years. Today, Teaching Strategies connects teachers, children and families to inspired teaching and learning experiences, informative data, stronger family partnerships, and professional learning through the leading early learning platform. Its products, including the most widely-used curriculum and assessment solutions The Creative Curriculum and GOLD, are found in over 270,000 classrooms and have served more than 15 million children across the globe. To learn why thousands of early childhood programs and many states choose to partner with Teaching Strategies to help ensure children's success in school and in life, visit teachingstrategies.com and follow us on Twitter @TeachStrategies.

About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management and capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR's insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of The Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR's website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter @KKR_Co.

SOURCE A-Street Ventures

Related Links

https://www.astreet.ventures/


"This partnership is a perfect combination of two category leaders focused on the same mission of helping seniors," said Jesse Allen, AAG Executive Vice President of Alternative Distribution. "Our data shows that the pandemic caused an increasing number of American seniors to want to age in the comfort of their home, but only three percent of older Americans have homes that are safe enough to do so. This partnership offers an exciting opportunity to impact in a meaningful way the lives of customers, families, and communities."

AAG's products allow seniors to responsibly access their home equity to make home modifications needed to remain in their home long term. All AAG borrowers are of course required to live in the home as their primary residence and continue to pay their property taxes, home insurance, and comply with the terms of their loan.

The idea for the partnership was born out of the need to help the large population of Baby Boomers prepare for their later years. According to a recent AAG study, over 80% of seniors wish to live in their home for the rest of their lives, but the vast majority do not have homes equipped for the journey. In fact, according to the CDC, each year 3 million older Americans are treated for emergency injuries due to falls and over 800,000 are hospitalized at an estimated cost of over $50 billion. AAG believes this issue can be countered with the responsible use of home equity to help seniors fund their home safety and preparedness projects.

"We're excited to add AAG as a partner and look forward to the value they can provide to our members," said Jim Greatorex, Vice President at VGM Live at Home. "We have seen first-hand how they have impacted the senior community with the financial solutions they have for older Americans and now our associated businesses will have the opportunity to leverage their services to help seniors across the nation."

In the agreement, VGM Live At Home members will now be able to connect their senior customers directly with AAG loan officers in their local area. These loan officers will work in-person with each individual client and their families to discuss the financing options they have available to fund home modifications unique to their situation, such as installation of shower rails, stair lifts or wheel chair ramps. As part of the partnership, AAG will also provide VGM Live At Home members with educational material about home equity usage and will take part in industry related events such as the VGM Heartland Conference.

AAG's partnership with VGM Live At Home is another step in ensuring that seniors have access to the best resources available for their later years. Along with this partnership, AAG is also working with the Better Business Bureau to add home improvement related scam awareness to their annual Savvy Seniors partnership. This multi-tiered approach, coupled with existing requirements for HUD approved 3rd party counseling as a part of the reverse mortgage process, provides seniors with industry-best practices when working with service companies who provide home modification.

To find out more about the AAG/VGM Live at Home's partnership:

VGM members interested in AAG, call (855) 288-0456 or visit: https://www.vgmliveathome.com/members/vendors/vendor-details?id=329

Non-members interested in VGM membership, please call: (877) 404-2442

About VGM & Associates

VGM & Associates is the nation's largest and most comprehensive member service organization (MSO) for post-acute healthcare, including DME/HME, respiratory, sleep, wound care, complex rehab, women's health, home modifications, and orthotics and prosthetics providers. Over 2,500 providers with nearly 7,000 locations rely on VGM to connect them to valuable resources every single day. For more information, visit www.vgm.com.

About AAG

AAG is dedicated to helping older Americans find new ways to fund a better retirement through the responsible use of home equity. As the nation's leader in reverse mortgage lending, AAG offers a suite of home equity solutions  including Home Equity Conversion Mortgages, traditional and proprietary mortgages, and real estate services  that are designed to give seniors a better financial outcome in retirement. AAG is a proud member of the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA). To learn more about AAG and reverse mortgage loans, please visit the company's website at www.aag.com.

American Advisors Group, NMLS ID: 9392, 18200 Von Karman Ave., Suite 300, Irvine, CA 92612. AAG Residential Services, Inc., 18200 Von Karman Ave., Suite 950, Irvine, CA 92612. Real estate broker, California Department of Real Estate, License number 02039087. AAGRS is performing acts for which a real estate license is required.

Contact:

Ryan Whittington

[email protected]

(657) 236-5220

SOURCE American Advisors Group (AAG)

Related Links

https://www.aag.com/


The vast desert region has been home to civilisations for millennia, from ancient Arabian tribes and Kingdoms to settlers from near and far drawn to the landscapes of lush green oases, vast mountains and valleys. However, recent decades have seen factors of desertification and climate change affect the natural balance of the ecosystem.

The conservation team at RCU has developed the building blocks of a programme to regenerate nature at AlUla and redress the balance. The overall project has a goal of converting 80% of AlUla into nature reserves, in line with the Saudi Green Initiative, which aims to improve quality of life and protect the future by increasing reliance on clean energy.

One of the centrepieces of the regeneration effort is the emergence of the Sharaan Nature Reserve, spanning 1,560 square kilometres. The reserve's perimeter fence is complete, and the visitors centre and wildlife breeding centre are to open by early 2024. The reserve will follow a dedicated masterplan in which the primary objectives are to restore and conserve a healthy desert ecosystem, with its natural complement of characteristic desert flora and fauna, including the breeding and reintroduction of the Arabian Leopard and other native species.

Other plans include a long-term conservation strategy for the Khaybar area; a fauna and flora inventory; creation of a nursery to provide 56 plant species for landscaping and ecological restoration; and activation of policies relating to irrigation, use of local plants and sustainability.

The cooperation agreement was signed by The Royal Commission for AlUla Governor His Highness Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud and the IUCN Director General Dr Bruno Oberle. The announcement of the agreement coincides with RCU's participation in the IUCN World Conservation Congress at Marseille, France from September 3-11.

The agreement will greatly assist RCU in applying a scientific perspective to issues of nature conservation and sustainable development, and to define relevant projects, activities and financial agreements as it regenerates a vast expanse of north-west Saudi Arabia centred on AlUla County. RCU's vision for nature focuses on the restoration of wildlife and their habitats in a sustainable way that diversifies the economy and provides opportunities for the local community.

Commenting on the agreement, Amr AlMadani, the CEO of the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: "Just as nature is an ecosystem, so too is international conservation. The development over the next three years of a symbiotic relationship with IUCN will help us carve out an increasingly active place in this ecosystem. It will help us fulfil our plans by harnessing the expertise of the global conservation community to achieve our vision."

This year's IUCN congress is the first at which RCU is participating, with a presence including workshops and a local action pledge. Saudi Arabia has been an IUCN member since 1981.

The 10 areas of cooperation under RCU's partnership with IUCN are:

Enhancing support for effective and equitable governance of natural resources. Preserving and conserving the integrity of nature. Sharing solutions to overcome challenges. Supporting the implementation of protected areas and natural heritage management through the IUCN's Green List of Protected and Conserved Areas. Supporting the implementation of wild nature restoration and management. Developing education and capacity-building initiatives on conservation and sustainable management of natural resources. Providing capacity-building in the field of sustainable tourism development and management. Organising and hosting joint expert meetings, including international experts, IUCN's Commission members and regional and international members of IUCN. Promoting sustainable ecotourism for AlUla in the IUCN World Conservation Congress through sponsorship and participation opportunities. Any other areas agreed upon by the parties.

About AlUla

Located 1,100km from Riyadh in north-west Saudi Arabia, AlUla is a place of extraordinary natural and human heritage. The vast area, covering 22,561km, includes a lush oasis valley, towering sandstone mountains and ancient cultural heritage sites dating back thousands of years.

The most well-known and recognised site in AlUla is Hegra, Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 52-hectare ancient city, Hegra was the principal southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom and is comprised of nearly 100 well-preserved tombs with elaborate facades cut into sandstone outcrops. Current research suggests Hegra was the most southern outpost of the Romans after conquering the Nabataeans in 106 CE.

In addition to Hegra, AlUla is home to a series of fascinating historical and archaeological sites such as: an Old Town surrounded by an ancient oasis; Dadan, the capital of the Dadan and Lihyan Kingdoms, which is considered one of the most developed 1st-millennium BCE cities of the Arabian Peninsula; thousands of ancient rock art sites and inscriptions in Jabal Ikmah; and Hijaz Railway stations.

Note to editors:

It is always AlUla / not Al-Ula

About the Royal Commission for AlUla

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU's long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development, that preserves the area's natural and historic heritage, while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programme.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611871/AlUla_RCU_agreement_IUCN.jpg

SOURCE Royal Commission for AlUla
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- American Century Investments, a $245 billion* global investment manager, has hired the portfolio management team responsible for Aberdeen Standard Investments' Total Return Bond strategy. Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager Lynn Chen, CFA; Portfolio Manager and Senior Sovereign Analyst Rajat Ahuja; Portfolio Manager and Senior Corporate Analyst Svetlin Krastev, CFA, and Portfolio Manager and Senior Securitized Analyst Michael Waggaman joined American Century earlier this month. The team will manage American Century's Total Return Bond strategy, utilizing the same methodology they employed at Aberdeen, and they will also assume additional portfolio management responsibilities.

"This investment team has significant experience and has worked together for more than 14 years," said American Century Global Fixed Income Co-Chief Investment Officer Charles Tan. "Hiring Lynn, Raj, Svetlin and Michael not only allows us to add a strategy that has generated alpha for its clients but also deepens our expertise in developed markets and emerging markets across a variety of sectors and helps us better serve our clients." Tan previously managed this team at Aberdeen, where he was head of North American Fixed Income before joining American Century in 2018.

The Total Return Bond strategy is an intermediate duration, fixed income strategy that uses a sector and country rotation strategy to invest in a diversified portfolio of investment grade, U.S. dollar (USD) debt securities with the ability to invest up to 40 percent of the portfolio in non-USD government debt securities in developed and emerging economies. "We use a top-down, macroeconomic-driven approach complemented by bottom-up inputs to invest the strategy," said Senior Portfolio Manager Lynn Chen. "The strategy seeks to provide diversified alpha by capitalizing on opportunities around the world in any investment climate. We're honored to be joining American Century, a company that has distinguished itself through its investment management expertise and an operating model that results in a positive impact on society."

Chen noted that American Century's unique ownership structure was one of the things that attracted her team to the firm. "The firm provides a solid platform for the TRB team to leverage resources, and its long-term focus aligns with client needs and should make the strategy more impactful." Each year, more than 40 percent of American Century's dividends are distributed to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a world-class biomedical research organization dedicated to defeating life-threatening diseases.

The Aberdeen team joins American Century's Global Fixed Income discipline, which is comprised of 48 investment professionals averaging 21 years in the industry and is overseen by the firm's Global Fixed Income co-Chief Investment Officers Charles Tan and John Lovito. The discipline represents $46 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2021.

Team Members

Lynn Chen's investment career spans more than 31 years. She leads the team responsible for managing Aberdeen's Total Return Bond strategy and has served as a portfolio manager on the strategy for the past 19 years, a role she has held through more than three firm ownership changes. She began managing the strategy when she joined Julius Baer Asset Management in 2002. During her time at Julius Baer, Chen built the current investment team, hiring Svetlin Krastev in 2004, Michael Waggaman in 2006 and Rajat Ahuja in 2007. In 2009, Julius Baer spun out its Americas asset management division, which included the Total Return Bond team, as Artio Global Investors. Aberdeen Standard Investments (formerly known as Aberdeen Asset Management) acquired Artio in 2013. Before joining Julius Baer, Chen held fixed income investment roles with JP Morgan Fleming Asset Management and Nippon Life Insurance. Along with her substantial leadership experience, Chen brings broad expertise across U.S. fixed income sectors as well as rates and currency markets outside the U.S. She received a bachelor's degree in history from Peking University in Beijing and a master's degree in public affairs from Princeton University. She is a CFA charterholder and a member of the CFA Institute.

Rajat Ahuja has more than 17 years of fixed income investment experience, with a focus on emerging markets bonds and currencies. For the last eight years, Ahuja has served as a portfolio manager for Aberdeen's Total Return Bond strategy and has been a member of the team managing the strategy since joining Julius Baer in 2007, including roles as a research analyst and trader. Before Julius Baer, he held trading positions with Nomura Capital Research and Asset Management and Alliance Capital. Ahuja received his bachelor's degree in accounting from Purdue University.

Svetlin Krastev has more than two decades of fixed income investment experience, specializing in corporate credit fixed income markets. Krastev was a portfolio manager for Aberdeen's Total Return Bond strategy and covers credit securities for both the corporate and taxable municipals segments. He has spent 17 years focusing on the credit markets for the strategy at Aberdeen, Artio Global and Julius Baer. He previously held analyst roles at Lloyds Bank and JP Morgan. Krastev received his bachelor's degree in business administration from the European University in Belgium and a master's degree in business administration from the University of Notre Dame.

Michael Waggaman brings 19 years of fixed income investment experience in the securitized markets. He has been a portfolio manager for Aberdeen's Total Return Bond Strategy for 15 years, serving through the transitions from Julius Baer, Artio and Aberdeen. His primary responsibility is covering the securitized markets, including agency Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS), non-agency MBS, Commerical Mortgage Backed Securities (CMBS) and Asset Backed Security (ABS) market segments. Waggaman has spent his entire career investing in securitized markets at Aberdeen, Artio, Julius Baer and General RE New England Asset Management, where he was a fixed income analyst focused on residential credit. He received his bachelor's degree in sociology from the University of Chicago.

About American Century Investments

American Century Investments is a leading global asset manager focused on delivering investment results and building long-term client relationships while supporting breakthrough medical research. Founded in 1958, American Century Investments' 1,400 employees serve financial professionals, institutions, corporations and individual investors from offices in New York; London; Frankfurt; Hong Kong; Sydney; Mountain View, Calif.; and Kansas City, Mo. Jonathan S. Thomas is president and chief executive officer, and Victor Zhang serves as chief investment officer. Delivering investment results to clients enables American Century Investments to distribute over 40 percent of its dividends to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a 500-person, non-profit basic biomedical research organization. The Institute owns more than 40 percent of American Century Investments and has received dividend payments of $1.7 billion since 2000. For more information about American Century Investments, visit www.americancentury.com.

*Assets under supervision as of 9/7/2021.

2021 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved

Contact:

Justin Emily Wills

(816) 225-4800

SOURCE American Century Investments
SINGAPORE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG), an advertising industry initiative to fight criminal activity and strengthen brand safety in the digital advertising supply chain, today released its second annual snapshot of ad fraud across major Asia-Pacific markets, showing the continuation of very low Invalid Traffic (IVT) across TAG Certified Channels.

The Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG) released its second annual snapshot of ad fraud across major Asia-Pacific markets,

Conducted by The 614 Group, the analysis found a 0.41% percent rate for invalid traffic (IVT) when advertisers used TAG Certified distribution channels in which multiple companies have achieved the TAG Certified Against Fraud Seal.

"There is no magic bullet in the war on ad fraud, but setting high standards for participants across the supply chain has been proven to keep fraud rates predictable, manageable, and low," said Nick Stringer, VP Global Engagement and Operations. "When advertisers, agencies, and their partners require TAG certification from their counterparties, it closes the gaps that criminals use to commit fraud and ensures that advertising spend goes where it is intended."

The 614 Group study compared invalid traffic (IVT) rates in TAG Certified Channels against industry norms by measuring more than 99.7 billion ad impressions from January to December 2020 from three of the largest advertising agency holding companies across Australia, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

"There's a proverb about carpentry that you should measure twice and cut once to be successful," said Rob Rasko, CEO of The 614 Group. "The same principle applies in fighting ad fraud. Only by continuing to measure the scope of the problem and the effectiveness of industry solutions over time can we increase awareness of ad fraud in the market and ensure we cut most of it out of our ecosystem."

The full 2021 snapshot can be found here. Additional information about TAG's Certified Against Fraud Program and how companies from across the advertising ecosystem can receive the TAG Certified Against Fraud Seal can be found at tagtoday.net/fraud.

Methodology

This report uses the methodology established by The 614 Group in 2017 for the first US benchmark study and subsequently has been used in similar TAG Fraud Benchmark studies since then.

From January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020, The 614 Group analyzed data from leading agency holding companies -- along with their MRC-accredited measurement vendors -- to collect and aggregate all impressions for campaigns that were executed in 10 Asia Pacific countries: India, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. These impressions included display media and video ads in desktop, mobile web and in-app environments, as well as Over the Top Television (OTT and/or Connected TV (CTV) which is a subset). The analysis did not use sampling of any kind, as 100% of the impressions provided by the agencies were analyzed.

Upon receipt, all data was aggregated within a secure database in order to create the proper reporting. In addition, The 614 Group conducted a series of industry expert interviews with executives at agencies and others on background for qualitative perspectives.

About the Trustworthy Accountability Group

The Trustworthy Accountability Group (TAG) is the global certification program designed to fight against criminal activity and protect brand safety in the digital advertising industry. TAG advances its mission of eliminating fraudulent traffic, facilitating the sharing of threat intelligence, and promoting brand safety by connecting industry leaders, analyzing threats, and sharing best practices worldwide. The 600+ member TAG community includes the world's largest and most influential brands, agencies, publishers, and ad tech providers. For more information on TAG, please visit tagtoday.net.

Media Contact:

Andrew Weinstein

[email protected]

202-667-4967

SOURCE Trustworthy Accountability Group

Related Links

http://www.tagtoday.net


Tin Drum produces Mixed Reality content, a similar experience to what Augmented Reality delivers, but through an emerging class of see-through display devices, blending a uniquely dimensional form with the real world. The audience member dons a headset to view content that is presented seamlessly in their space. Tin Drum performances connect people and stories in ways that go beyond anything that has ever been possible in traditional mediums, enabling richer, deeper experiences.

With storytelling no longer bound by traditional "flat screen" media, Tin Drum is introducing a new way to experience Fujimoto's iconic interchange of nature and architecture by invoking a collective human experience set to take its audience on a journey of self-exploration.

Inspired in part by the aurora borealis and underwater bioluminescence, Medusa's structure changes and evolves based on the movement of its admirers, elevating audiences to become part of a mixed experience. This creates a breakthrough for individuals to follow their own emotional responses, engage in the experience, and develop a sense of agency and intimacy that was not achievable until now.

"Mixed reality is a medium well-suited to a collective experience, which can be instrumental in helping audiences develop deeper, more personal connections to art and performance. A Tin Drum production allows for audience agency, fluidity, curiosity, and presence because the audience is present in the space, sharing and observing their reactions. You cannot achieve that same agency and intimacy when you replace your physical reality with a virtual one," explains Yoyo Munk, Chief Science Officer of Tin Drum and Director of Medusa.

"Medusa is an exploration of translating architectural thinking into an entirely new medium, which we refer to collectively as Mixed Reality," explains Todd Eckert, co-founder of Tin Drum. "Art and architecture overlap when you remove the barriers architects traditionally have to work around, like gravity and shelter. In a Mixed Reality medium, structures are constructed entirely out of light, so you have more room for dynamic behavior. Our creative concept focused on the role of architecture in creating spaces for sharing narratives and developing culture  which is implicit in the design of churches, marketplaces, and office buildings."

"Medusa allows Sou Fujimoto to share his vision and narrative in a new medium that is still authentic to his ethos, and audiences to engage with art, nature, and architecture in an entirely new way. Their movement and exploration are guided by what they see and hear, which in turn affects how the structure moves and responds. It's not a puzzle to be solved, but an ongoing conversation with the world around them, helping them to uncover what their particular role is in that space. Tin Drum productions not only push the boundaries of what is possible but dispel the myths and biases of the modern headset experience," added Munk.

For more information, visit www.tindrum.io and https://www.londondesignfestival.com/.

About Tin Drum

Tin Drum is changing the way the world understands media. Since 2016, this growing collective of artists, designers and technologists has been producing content for wearable augmented/mixed reality devices - a new class of see-through display blending uniquely dimensional form with the real world. Tin Drum events are developed to be more connective and engaging than anything available through traditional media. The content is without modern precedent, changing the definition of engagement in recorded performance. For more information, please visit www.tindrum.io.

About London Design Festival

Established in 2003 by Sir John Sorrell CBE and Ben Evans CBE, London Design Festival celebrates and promotes London as the design capital of the world. London Design Festival has since earned the reputation as a key calendar moment of London's autumn creative season, alongside London Fashion Week, Frieze Art Fair, and the London Film Festival, attracting the greatest thinkers, practitioners, retailers, and educators to the capital, in a citywide celebration.

#LDF21

www.londondesignfestival.com

Instagram: L_D_F_official

Twitter: L_D_F

Facebook: LondonDesignFestival

SOURCE Tin Drum

Related Links

https://www.tindrum.io


OGDEN, Utah, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ogden-based AvantGuard (AG) celebrates the grand opening of their third monitoring center, strategically placed in Cedar City, Utah. AG president, Justin Bailey said, "We chose Cedar City because of its highly educated and talented workforce. It's a beautiful community and they have truly rolled out the red carpet for us."

AvantGuard Monitoring is a premier provider of wholesale monitoring services for alarm dealers in North America. Skilled AG operators monitor and respond to alarm signals and events of all types across the security, fire, mPERS, and IoT industries. "We are currently serving over a million subscribers from Alaska to Puerto Rico, including residents, businesses, schools, hospitals" said Bailey.

The new, fully redundant monitoring center is 5,121 square feet occupying the third floor of a three story building capable of seating 28 active monitoring specialists at any given time. "This state-of-the-art facility adds another layer of redundancy for customers, ensuring continuous 'up' time and service for the people who depend on AG for their safety and protection. The new center also helps facilitate the phenomenal growth AG is experiencing.

The Operations Manager for the new center, Ammon Davis, has been with AvantGuard since July 2013, serving in various rolls  Operator, Training Instructor, Account Executive in Dealer Services and Training and Quality Manager. "We're thrilled to be opening here in Cedar City and have felt welcomed by the community. Our team is quickly growing and embracing the AG 'We Care First' culture, and we're excited to be working in such a beautiful facility," said Davis.



The grand opening will be held at the new AvantGuard Cedar City Monitoring Center, 878 S Sage Drive, Cedar City, UT 84720 on September, 22nd from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Employees, friends and family will be able to tour the new facility and lunch will be provided.

AvantGuard is a premier provider of wholesale alarm monitoring, offering professional monitoring services, cloud monitoring and hybrid partnerships. They utilize the most advanced monitoring technology with three state-of-the-art, hot-redundant call centers, along with skilled operators who respond promptly and compassionately. AvantGuard proudly meets or exceeds all industry standards of excellence. Monitoring centers are based in Ogden, UT, Rexburg, ID, and Cedar City, UT.

Contact:

Jonathan Knoder

Content Manager at AvantGuard

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE AvantGuard Monitoring

Related Links

www.agmonitoring.com


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CRE Financial Firm, Axylyum Charter recently announced that they have joined the American Association of Private Lenders. The oldest national organization representing the private real estate and peer-to-peer lending industry, AAPL's members include private money lenders, mortgage fund managers, brokers and service providers from around the United States.

"We are very pleased to have joined such an important industry organization. The team at Axylyum believe very strongly in AAPL's core values and appreciate all that they do for the private lending space. We are looking forward to fostering this relationship and utilizing AAPL's member resources to better support our growing base," said Steven Amshen, general counsel at Axylyum.

Axylyum Charter was founded in early 2021 with the purpose of disrupting the distressed mortgage industry. The firm is a market creator and leader in providing portfolio-wide secure engagement options to Retail and Wholesale Lenders that allow for an immediate repurchase of Lenders' defaulted loans. Through their exclusive product, AXY Wrap, Axylyum offers a secure guarantee on the performance of asset-based non-owner-occupied loans through portfolio-wide engagement pricing.

"The American Association of Private Lenders is pleased to have Axylyum join us as a service provider member. We look forward to supporting Axylyum as we do all our members through education, ethics, and advocacy," said Linda Hyde, managing director of AAPL.

Axylyum will be attending AAPL's 12th Annual Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 14-16. The conference is the nation's largest private lending event.

ABOUT AXYLYUM:

Axylyum Charter focuses on acquisition of defaulted asset backed non-owner-occupied loans through portfolio wide engagement guarantees to non-traditional lenders. The goal of the organization is to disrupt the distressed mortgage-backed asset space by executing their litigation-driven equity capture position in high value markets.

For more information, please visit www.axylyum.com or email [email protected].

SOURCE Axylyum

Related Links

https://www.axylyum.com


The bitcoin acceptance solutions introduced by Bancoagricola and Flexa today are the first of their kind not only in Latin America but also across the globe. Bancoagricola customers can now use any Flexa- or Lightning-enabled wallet app to pay bitcoin for US dollarbased loans and credit card payments at the exact fair market rate, without any additional fee or spread. Bancoagricola merchants currently accepting payments through the Wompi payment gateway can also enable Flexa-powered bitcoin payments with guaranteed zero system fraud and no fees for end customers. Bancoagricola has also committed, to bringing turnkey, fraud-proof bitcoin payments via Flexa to all of its' clients point-of-sale terminals by the end of this year.

"We are excited to be the first financial institution in El Salvador to enable bitcoin access for our customers across our entire suite of financial products and to enhance financial inclusion," said Carlos Mauricio Novoa, COO of Bancoagricola. "At Bancoagricola, we seek to innovate to promote sustainable economic development; we work tirelessly to satisfy our customers' financial needs in the most responsible, respectful, and caring way possible. Flexa has been instrumental in helping us prioritize our customers' experiences using bitcoin as legal tender in El Salvador; we look forward to continuing to innovate alongside them for a long time to come."

"As it always has been, our vision at Flexa is to build software that helps anyone spend any currency with any app at any storeonline or anywhere in the world," said Trevor Filter, co-founder of Flexa. "The opportunity to partner with organizations as innovative and world-class as Bancoagricola and Grupo Bancolombia so that we can support better payment technology for millions of Salvadorans in such a tangible and impactful way is simply incredible. We're very grateful to have spent the last few months on this journey with the Bancoagricola team and can't wait to see how the rest of this financial revolution unfolds."

Bancoagricola account holders are encouraged to download the latest version of the Bancoagricola mobile app (Banca Movil) or visit bancoagricola.com in order to make payments with bitcoin. Merchants in El Salvador who are interested in enabling bitcoin payments should contact their Bancoagricola account manager or explore Flexa's integration offerings for more details and to get started.

About Bancoagricola

Bancoagricola , as the bank of Salvadorans for 65 years, promotes sustainable economic development to achieve the well-being of all. With more than one million customers, the bank provides solutions that promotes financial inclusion, strengthen the competitiveness of the productive fabric, and support the construction of more sustainable cities and communities.

About Flexa

Flexa is the global leader in pure-digital payments. We provide merchants and developers with simple integrations for digital currency acceptance that are fast, affordable, and completely fraud-proof. Founded in 2018, Flexa's mission is to make payments more efficient and accessible for people all over the world.

SOURCE Flexa

Related Links

https://flexa.network


DALLAS, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BenefitMall , the leading provider of next-generation broker services, today announced Mark Trivette has assumed the role of Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.

"Mark comes to us with more than 20 years of strategic leadership and insight in the finance realm," said Scott Kirksey, CEO of BenefitMall. "With a focus on building private equity-backed companies, he will be instrumental in propelling our growth and expediting the momentum we've already experienced this year. I am proud to welcome him to the BenefitMall family."

Trivette joins BenefitMall from Aspira, where he successfully led its turnaround and eventual exit earlier this year via sale as CEO. He also held CFO roles at ACTIVE Network, SourceHOV (now Exela) and BancTec.

"I am thrilled to join BenefitMall to lead all functions within the Finance and Accounting divisions of the organization," Trivette said. "The company is launching a number of new internal processes, initiatives and offerings to its clients that are positioning it as a leader in the general agency space. It is an exciting time to join BenefitMall and I look forward to helping further its success in the industry."



He received his Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting magna cum laude from Miami University. Trivette will be based out of the BenefitMall corporate office in Dallas, Texas.

About BenefitMall

Headquartered in Dallas, BenefitMall is the largest general agency partnering with a network of 20,000 Brokers to deliver employee benefits to more than 140,000 small and medium-sized businesses. BenefitMall uniquely leverages innovative technology backed by human expertise to provide the fastest, easiest, and most secure benefits selling experience for carriers, brokers, and their clients.

Owned by Management and The Carlyle Group, BenefitMall also operates HealthCareExchange.com, the leading online community for health care reform and compliance. More information is available at www.benefitmall.com .

SOURCE BenefitMall

Related Links

http://www.benefitmall.com


TALLINN, Estonia, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Binaryx, a European digital asset exchange, released its tokenization guideline to help small businesses prepare for the native token issuance without intermediaries.



Tokenization of assets can unlock trillions of illiquid dollars for financing SMEs' growth. According to the World Bank's data, 90% of the global economy is constituted by 400 million small and medium business enterprises. Half of them face financial challenges and require extra $5.2 trillion annually.



Previously, Binaryx announced the launch of the tokenization platform and the first tokenization case. Binaryx is aspiring to create an ecosystem that enables users to complete the entire tokenization cycle within one platform.



"We are committed to building an ecosystem, which leads businesses throughout all stages of asset tokenization. With the help of our platform tools as well as documentation, business owners can adjust their companies and adequately prepare for the tokenization and capital raising" - comments founder and CEO of Binaryx Oleg Kurchenko.



The Guideline reveals step-by-step instructions on how to prepare for tokenization and mitigate all possible financial and legal risks. The guideline describes a number of elements, which Binaryx defined for the businesses as essential ones to adapt to the modern ways of investment raising. The most crucial steps include:

Improving knowledge of the blockchain and digital assets Conducting an audit Redesigning tech infrastructure to be able to deal with the tokenized assets Enhancing customers loyalty to build or strengthen community Developing a legal framework

Read the Tokenization Guideline for Business: https://bit.ly/tokenizationguideline



Photo(s):

https://www.prlog.org/12884282



Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE Binaryx
NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the latest The Insight Partners study on "Bio-Based Ethylene Market Forecast to 2028  COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis  by Raw Material (Sugars, Starch, and Lignocellulosic Biomass) and End-User Industry (Packaging, Detergents, Lubricant, and Additives)," the market was valued at US$ US$ 414.34 million in 2019 and is projected to reach US$ 718.32 million by 2028; it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2020 to 2028. The report highlights key driving factors and prominent market players along with their developments in the market.

North America held the second-largest share of the bio-based ethylene market in 2019, and it is estimated to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. The market position of North America is attributed to the wider application of this material in the packaging and plastic production industries. The presence of key players such as Dow Chemical Company, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures (OCLV), and Enerkem is further influencing the market growth. Governments and industries in North America are nowadays looking forward to adopting solutions to diminish greenhouse gas emissions, which is driving them toward the use of bio-based ethylene as an alternative to petrochemical products.

Get Exclusive Sample Pages of Bio-Based Ethylene Market - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis with Strategic Insights at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00015881/

Nascent Stage of Bio-Based Ethylene Market to Provide Remarkable Growth Opportunities for the Global Bio-Based Ethylene Market

The bio-based ethylene market is in a nascent stage. The US, Brazil, Canada, and a few countries from Europe are pioneers in the production of bio-ethylene and bio-based polyethylene. Moreover, the US (using corn) and Brazil (using sugarcane) are the major producers of bioethanol, which account for 63% and 24% of the global production, respectively. Developing countries present huge potential for the growth of various international bio-based ethylene producers. Growing focus on environmental issues such as fossil fuel depletion, coupled with the stricter regulations for addressing these issues, would boost the bio-ethylene market growth in the coming years.

Bio-Based Ethylene Market: Segmental Overview

Based on raw material, the bio-based ethylene market is segmented into sugars, starch, and lignocellulosic biomass. The lignocellulosic biomass segment is expected to register the highest CAGR in the market during the forecast period. Lignocellulosic biomass is considered as the largest potential source of bioethanol as it is widely available at a low cost. The major advantage of using lignocellulosic feedstock instead of sugar and starchy biomass in the production of bio-ethylene is that it does not interfere with food processing, production, and supply, and can be produced on less arable land. Based on end-user industry, the market is segmented into packaging, detergents, lubricant, and additives. In 2019, detergent is projected to be the second-largest segment accounting for ~18% of the global market. The manufacturers of cleaning products, including detergent, are switching to bio-based raw materials from synthetic chemicals. Synthetic detergents are not fully biodegradable and cannot be decomposed by microbes present in sewage, which results in water pollution. Thus, many industries and consumers tend to prefer bio-based detergents produced using bioethanol and bio-ethylene.

Download Sample PDF Brochure of Bio-Based Ethylene Market Growth Research Report at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00015881/

Bio-Based Ethylene Market: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments

Braskem S.A.; The Dow Chemical Company; LyondellBasell Industries Holdings B.V.; SABIC; Oxy Low Carbon Ventures (OLCV); and Enerkem are among the well-established players in the bio-based ethylene market. The major companies are highly focusing on increasing their production capacities to expand their market share. For instance, in June 2019, LyondellBasell and Neste announced the first parallel production of bio-based polypropylene and bio-based low-density polyethylene at a commercial scale.

Impact of COVID-19 on Bio-Based Ethylene Market

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the status of the chemical industry; this has also led to adverse effects on the growth of the bio-based ethylene market. The outbreak has distorted operational efficiency and disrupted value chains due to the sudden shutdown of national and international boundaries. For instance, China is the global hub of manufacturing and the largest raw material supplier for various industries. The lockdown of various plants and factories in the country affected the global supply chains and disturbed manufacturing activities, delivery schedules, and chemicals & material sales in 2020. Various companies have already announced possible delays in product deliveries and slump in future sales. However, governments of several countries are taking precautionary measures, encouraging vaccination, and imposing work safety measures to support industries in resuming operations. This is expected to improve supply and demand dynamics in the bio-based ethylene market in the coming months.

Order a Copy of Bio-Based Ethylene Market Shares, Strategies and Forecasts 2021-2028 Research Report at https://www.theinsightpartners.com/buy/TIPRE00015881/

Browse Related Reports:

Perchloroethylene Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Polyoxymethylene Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

Crystalline Polyethylene Terephthalate Market Forecast to 2028 - COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis

About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.

Contact Us:

If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us:

Contact Person: Sameer Joshi

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +1-646-491-9876

More Research: https://www.openpr.com/news/archive/139407/The-Insight-Partners.html

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SOURCE The Insight Partners
SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The other day Shenzhen Kangtai Biological Products Co., Ltd. announced that the company and AstraZeneca signed the "Amendment 1 to License Agreement". In addition to authorizing BIOKANGTAI to commercialize its Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine(Adenovirus Vector) in Chinese mainland, AstraZeneca has also authorized BIOKANGTAI to commercialize the vaccine in Pakistan and Indonesia. AstraZeneca provides the necessary support for BIOKANGTAI to obtain emergency use and marketing authorization in the licensed areas. BIOKANGTAI has also recently renewed the "Manufacturing License" to extend the scope of manufacturing at the company's Shenzhen Guangming Base: Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine (Adenovirus Vector).

According to the statistics of Our World in Data, as of September 2, 2021, Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine(Adenovirus Vector) jointly developed by AstraZeneca and University of Oxford has been approved for use in 185 countries around the world. Previously, in August 2020, BIOKANGTAI and AstraZeneca signed the "License Agreement", and AstraZeneca exclusively authorized BIOKANGTAI to develop, manufacture and commercialize Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine(Adenovirus Vector) in Chinese mainland; in November 2020, both parties unveiled Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine(Adenovirus Vector) manufacturing workshop together at the 3rd China International Import Expo; in February 2021, trial production was started at the workshop.

Through the signing of this Amendment, BIOKANGTAI and AstraZeneca will expand the commercialization of Recombinant COVID-19 Vaccine(Adenovirus Vector) to overseas market, laying a foundation for the local registration and sales of the product. Meanwhile, BIOKANGTAI also has sufficient manufacturing capacity and conditions, and is expected to export the finished products to Indonesia, Pakistan and other countries in the future, which will ease the shortage of vaccine supply, and contribute to improving the accessibility and affordability of vaccines worldwide, especially in developing countries.

SOURCE Shenzhen Kangtai Biological Products Co.,Ltd.
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Contact:

BizVibe

Jesse Maida

Email: [email protected]

+1 855-897-5880

Website: https://www.bizvibe.com/

SOURCE BizVibe
MCLEAN, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bluestone Investment Partners II, LP ("Bluestone"), a McLean, Virginia-based private equity firm, is pleased to announce the completion of an investment in cBEYONData (the "Company"). cBEYONData is a professional services and solutions company specializing in supporting mission-driven agencies and organizations with the enhancement and automation of business processes, cloud migrations and enablement, business intelligence, data management and warehouses, data analytics, and agile project and process management. cBEYONData primarily provides these solutions to government Chief Financial Officer-level executives at multiple law enforcement, civilian, and defense agencies. The Company's CFO Control Tower suite is a scalable on-demand solution that enhances federal government financial systems reporting and allows clients to quickly automate business process and reduce the time spent on data aggregation and manipulation. The Budgeting and Spend (BAS) module is preconfigured to meet the needs of federal budgeting organizations and improve and automate a wide range of planning, forecasting, consolidation, and financial reporting requirements. cBEYONData represents Bluestone's fifth platform investment in its current fund and its seventh transaction since March 2020.

David Schmidtknecht, Co-Founder of cBEYONData said, "Our team has worked together for many years and this investment by Bluestone represents an important milestone in our corporate history. With this investment, we have the additional resources necessary to expand our product offerings and deliver on the evolving needs and expectations of the federal government CFO community."

"We are excited about our partnership with cBEYONData" said Eric Wolking, Operating Partner of Bluestone. "The Company's rapid deployment of financial management reporting and compliance solutions for federal agencies enables higher success with achieving the customer's mission. This strong reputation as a purpose-built professional services provider is evidenced by remarkable growth in recent years."

Monument Capital Partners provided investment banking services to cBEYONData.

About cBEYONData's Solutions and Services

Federal CFOs face a wide range of mandated compliance, transparency, and performance management requirements. cBEYONData provides its customers with scalable and repeatable solutions that automate compliance, budgeting, and financial reporting. The Company's proprietary technology solutions facilitate the consolidation of disparate systems, eliminating the need for manual aggregation of data, and improving customer return on investment. Please visit www.cbeyondata.com to find out more.

About Bluestone Investment Partners

Bluestone is a private equity firm investing exclusively in lower middle-market companies in the defense and government services arena. Bluestone's principals have a long and successful track record owning, operating, investing in, and advising companies in the defense and government services sector. www.bluestoneinv.com.

SOURCE Bluestone Investment Partners

Related Links

http://www.bluestoneinv.com


CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- At a time when affordable apartments in Greater Boston are scarce and many households are spending more than half their income in rent, Cambridge Trust is committing $110 million to support affordable housing in the Commonwealth in partnership with the Massachusetts Housing Partnership (MHP).

Cambridge Trust Commits $110 Million to Finance Affordable Housing Through the Massachusetts Housing Partnership

As part of the agreement, Cambridge Trust will provide MHP the funds for terms of up to 20 years, and MHP will use them to finance multifamily rental housing, with a focus on supporting low- and moderate-income households and nonprofit developers in the communities that Cambridge Trust serves.

"Our decision to partner with MHP squares with our organization's desire to build a better tomorrow for the communities we serve," said Thomas J. Fontaine, executive vice president and Chief Banking Officer of Cambridge Trust. "We hope these funds will help develop more housing solutions for low- and moderate-income families."

Cambridge Trust's commitment  one of the largest loan commitments of its kind in the U.S.  comes at a time when the Commonwealth is increasing public funding for affordable housing and rental assistance to help people impacted by COVID 19 remain in their homes.

In making the commitment, Cambridge Trust is leveraging MHP's experience in using private bank funds to provide financing for multifamily rental housing. Created in 1985, MHP is primarily funded by a 1990 state interstate banking law (Ch. 102) that requires companies that purchase banks in Massachusetts to make funds available to MHP for affordable housing. The only law of its kind in the country, Ch. 102 helps ensure that private lending will continue to support community development even as the banking industry is consolidating.

In its 30-year history, MHP has provided over $1.5 billion for the financing of over 26,000 rental apartments across the Commonwealth. More than $1.2 billion of those loans came from its bank-funded loan pool. MHP's other sources for tax-exempt and taxable financing are FHA and Fannie Mae.

What makes the Cambridge Trust line of credit to MHP different is that it was not triggered by a bank acquisition, but by Cambridge Trust's interest in addressing the affordable housing needs of its community and MHP's efforts to expand its successful privately-funded lending platform by bringing on new bank partners through voluntary agreements.

MHP's new program  called the Multifamily CRA Funding Program  offers banks the ability to support affordable housing in their communities and satisfy requirements of the Community Reinvestment Act, the 1977 law that encourages financial institutions to help meet the credit needs of their communities, including low- and moderate-income neighborhoods.

MHP's voluntary CRA program is also more flexible as Cambridge's Trust's loan funds can not only be used directly, but also in conjunction with FHA-insured loans, the purchase of Fannie Mae mortgage backed securities (MBS) and tax-exempt bonds. This will provide more financing options for affordable housing developers and owners.

"The pandemic has shined a light on our shortage of affordable housing and how it impacts the health and well-being of so many people," said Clark Ziegler, MHP's executive director. "Cambridge Trust has stepped up in a big way with funding that will help us provide more affordable housing for the residents of Massachusetts."

MHP has made loans to most of the non-profit and for-profit affordable housing developers in the state and is the leading lender for projects funded with competitively awarded federal Low Income Housing Tax Credits, which funds most of the affordable rental housing created in Massachusetts.

MHP has never had a loan loss in its history, has an A+ rating from Standard & Poor's, and in addition to Cambridge Trust, has major financing relationships with Bank of America, BNY Mellon, TD Bank, Santander, Citizens Banks, and many other regional and local banks, using these funds to finance the construction and renovation of affordable apartments across Massachusetts.

"For three decades, private lenders have played an essential role in financing affordable housing in the Commonwealth, but Cambridge Trust has truly raised the bar by volunteering to loan $110 million to the Massachusetts Housing Partnership for the construction of new affordable units," said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy. "From MHP's billion-dollar legacy of providing below-market financing to the Baker-Polito Administration's proposal to invest $1 billion in ARPA funds for affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities, we all have a role to play to solve our housing crisis. I want to thank Cambridge Trust for acknowledging housing is an equity issue that also affects our competitiveness and commend them for being a major part of the solution."

About Cambridge Trust

Cambridge Trust is a wholly owned subsidiary of Cambridge Bancorp (NASDAQ: CATC), and is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Cambridge Trust is a 131-year-old Massachusetts chartered commercial bank with approximately $4.3 billion in assets as of June 30, 2021, and a total of 19 Massachusetts and New Hampshire locations. Cambridge Trust Company is one of New England's leaders in private banking and wealth management with $4.5 billion in client assets under management and administration as of June 30, 2021. The Wealth Management group maintains offices in Boston and Wellesley, Massachusetts and Concord, Manchester, and Portsmouth, New Hampshire. For more information, visit CambridgeTrust.com.

Contact:

Alex Jafarzadeh

Brodeur Partners on behalf of Cambridge Trust

[email protected]

Work: (617) 587-2846

Cell: (617) 608-8852

About The Massachusetts Housing Partnership

The Massachusetts Housing Partnership is a statewide public non-profit organization that supports and finances affordable housing. It works in concert with the Governor, the Department of Housing and Community Development and the state's other quasi-public housing organizations.

For more information, visit www.mhp.net

Contact:

Ruston Lodi

Director of Public Affairs, Massachusetts Housing Partnership

[email protected]

Work: 857-317-8523

Cell: 617-939-4245

SOURCE Cambridge Trust

Related Links

https://www.cambridgetrust.com/


MIAMI, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cano Health, Inc. ("Cano Health") (NYSE: CANO), a leading value-based primary care provider for seniors and underserved communities, today announced the opening of three new medical centers in Rio Grande Valley, Texas, built to deliver high-touch, technology-enabled primary care for superior patient outcomes.

The openings of Cano Health's new Rio Grande Valley locations in Harlingen, Edinburg, and Pharr follow the recent acquisition of a medical center in Corpus Christi and exemplify Cano Health's strategy to build density and scale in target markets. Cano Health now has eight Texas locations in San Antonio and the Rio Grande Valley.

"From the beginning, Cano Health's success has been built on strong relationships with our members and local communities," said Dr. Marlow Hernandez, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO of Cano Health. "We have become one of the largest independent primary care providers in the country because we have never wavered from our overarching goal  to measurably improve health outcomes while building lifelong bonds with our members and our communities."

"Expanding Cano Health's national care platform of access, quality and wellness to South Texas is particularly important," continued Dr. Hernandez. "The Rio Grande Valley suffers from some of the worst clinical outcomes in the country, including high mortality rates from COVID-19 and poor control of chronic conditions, such as diabetes. I am excited about the impact Cano Health can make as we welcome patients to our newest locations in South Texas."

About Cano Health

Cano Health operates value-based primary care medical centers and supports affiliated medical practices that specialize in primary care for seniors in Florida, Texas, Nevada, New York, New Jersey, New Mexico, and Puerto Rico, with additional markets in development. As part of its care coordination strategy, Cano Health provides sophisticated, high-touch population health management programs including telehealth, prescription home delivery, wellness programs, transition of care, and high-risk and complex care management.

Cano Health's personalized patient care and proactive approach to wellness and preventive care sets it apart from competitors. Cano Health has consistently improved clinical outcomes while reducing costs, affording patients the opportunity to lead longer and healthier lives. Cano Health serves a predominantly minority population (80% of its patients are Latino or African American) and low-income population (50% of its members are dual eligible for Medicare and Medicaid). For more information visit www.canohealth.com or www.canohealth.com/investors/.

Contacts

Media Relations

Patricia Graue

Brunswick Group

(212) 333-3810

[email protected]

Media Relations  Local (FL)

Barbara Ferreiro

Cano Health

(305) 790-6731

[email protected]

SOURCE Cano Health

Related Links

https://canohealth.com/


HOPEWELL, N.J., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital Health Medical Group recently launched Capital Health  Virtual Primary Care, a virtual practice that offers telehealth services to individuals in New Jersey and Pennsylvania (ages 16 and older) who wish to receive support in managing health issues from the comfort of their own home.

"Throughout the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Capital Health Medical Group providers have conducted thousands of patient visits in a virtual setting," said Dr. Michael Stabile, a board certified family medicine physician at the Capital Health Primary Care  Hamilton office. "As a result, our team is thoroughly prepared to provide outstanding, high quality health care services at a time and place most convenient for patients located in New Jersey or Pennsylvania  whether they are at home or on the go."

From 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days per week, the virtual primary care practice offers video visits with local doctors, nurse practitioners, physician assistants or other qualified health care providers from Capital Health Medical Group. The team of more than 35 clinicians can address a wide range of health conditions, including but not limited to symptoms of COVID-19, sinus problems, upper respiratory infection, sore throat, urinary tract infection, cough, flu, rash, common cold, eye infection, and more.

"Capital Health Medical Group's team consists of knowledgeable, collaborative, and patient-focused medical providers who have experience in working together to build the most appropriate plan of care for each patient," said Dr. Jerrold Gertzman, a board certified family medicine physician and medical director of Capital Health's Primary Care Network. "The breadth and strength of our health network ensures patients receive comprehensive and personalized care."

As part of Capital Health Medical Group, a network of more than 500 physicians and clinicians who offer primary and specialty care, Capital Health  Virtual Primary Care offers easy access to experienced specialists and the most advanced care in the region at nearby Capital Health hospitals. All Capital Health Medical Group locations use a shared electronic medical records system, which allows providers to access medical records on a secure network, making it convenient for patients to continue their care across a network of primary and specialty care providers.

While Capital Health  Virtual Primary Care is designed to serve as an online platform to host sick visits, patients have the ability to schedule an in-person, follow-up visit at one of Capital Health's primary care offices across the greater Mercer, Bucks, and Burlington county region.

To learn more or to request an appointment, visit www.capitalvirtualcare.org.

For more information, please call 1.833.TELEDOX (1.833.835.3369).

SOURCE Capital Health

Related Links

http://capitalhealth.org


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Casa Del Sol announced the launch of their new luxury sipping tequila co-founded by Mexican-American actress, producer, director, and activist Eva Longoria. The ultra-premium spirits brand is inspired by the magic of the golden hour and Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of agave, and translates to "house of the sun" in Spanish.

Eva Longoria, co-founder of newly launched tequila Casa Del Sol, with the Blanco, Reposado and Anejo tequila bottles. Photo Credit: Brian Bowen Smith. Casa Del Sol, a new tequila brand with authentic Mexican roots and a strong female influence. From left to right Alejandra Pelayo, Casa Del Sol's Head of Production, Eva Longoria, Casa Del Sol Co-founder, and Casa Del Sol's Artesana Tequilera, Mariana Padilla. Photo Credit: Brian Bowen Smith. Eva Longoria, co-founder of newly launched tequila Casa Del Sol, with the Blanco, Reposado and Anejo tequila bottles. Photo Credit: Brian Bowen Smith.

Casa Del Sol is a distinct spirit made from the finest hand-selected 100% Blue Weber agave sourced from rich clay soil in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The brand taps dynamic talent with authentic Mexican roots, including Alejandra Pelayo, Casa Del Sol's head of production, protege and goddaughter of the late Francisco Alcaraz, tequila pioneer and master distiller / creator of Patron. Additionally, Mariana Padilla, a Mexican-based artisan and daughter of Paco Padilla, cultural ambassador of Jalisco. As the brand's Artesana Tequilera, Padilla brings generations of rich culture and artistic heritage into Casa Del Sol's identity and product development.

"Legacy and authenticity are huge components of Casa Del Sol, and it was important for us to pay homage to the past through every facet of the brand, including our logo, which is visibly inspired by Mayahuel, 'The Goddess of Tequila'," says Mariana Padilla, Artesana Tequilera of Casa Del Sol. "Our long-standing Mexican roots, rich heritage and distinct aging process has paved a way for the future, helping to create a brand unlike others in the space," says Alejandra Pelayo, Head of Production of Casa Del Sol.

Where most tequila brands source whiskey barrels from the United States, Casa Del Sol partnered with Laurent Martell, the 9th generation of the Martell family in France, and sourced Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak. Casa Del Sol has a unique barrel aging process that results in a distinct flavor and aromatic profile where old world craftsmanship meets new world artistry, infusing Mexican tradition with notes of French heritage. The result is the sophisticated duality of two designated regions protected by similar appellations of origin.

Casa Del Sol offers three distinctive sipping tequilas  Blanco, Reposado and Anejo:

Blanco : Best Sipped with Sun - SRP $59.99

Blanco was crafted to deliver the pure essence of agave with its smooth and complex body. Complete with pleasant hints of fresh agave and mint, and warmed by notes of spice and caramel green apple.

Best Sipped with Sun - was crafted to deliver the pure essence of agave with its smooth and complex body. Complete with pleasant hints of fresh agave and mint, and warmed by notes of spice and caramel green apple. Reposado: Best Sipped at Sundown - SRP $69.99

Reposado rests for a minimum of four months in Select French Oak and Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak. The woody aroma evokes soft vanilla with hints of raisin and sweet tobacco. To taste, it has notes of wild honey, raisin, and butterscotch.

Best Sipped at Sundown - Reposado rests for a minimum of four months in Select French Oak and Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak. The woody aroma evokes soft vanilla with hints of raisin and sweet tobacco. To taste, it has notes of wild honey, raisin, and butterscotch. Anejo: Best Sipped at Sunset - SRP $99.99

This masterfully crafted Tequila is matured for more than 14 months in the same barrel aging process. On the nose, it is elegant, sweet and indulgent, with notes of dark cacao, dried fruit, toasted oak, and vanilla. With each sip, it tastes of toffee, apricot, oak, and chestnut.

"When creating Casa Del Sol, we wanted to deliver a brand that was set apart from the rest. From the liquid to the legacy, we took the time to develop an ultra-premium tequila focusing on authenticity and a distinct flavor profile," says Eva Longoria, co-founder of Casa Del Sol. "It is always my mission to uplift the voices of women and celebrate my Mexican heritage, so that others may be inspired by the limitless genius and artistry that is rich in our communities. With Casa Del Sol, we are bringing together casual drinkers and tequila enthusiasts alike to enjoy a product with bold taste that everyone will find unforgettable."

Casa Del Sol prioritizes social, economic and environmental practices which includes providing healthcare opportunities to its Jimadors, exclusively partnering with a 100% Mexican-owned distillery that has been awarded the distinctive ESR (Empresa Socialmente Responsable) award, and prioritizes the sustainable cultivation of agave. The brand is also currently developing programs to help level the playing field for women in the Altos de Jalisco region, who have historically had limited access to services and resources to improve both their personal and professional development.

Casa Del Sol is available for sale at select retailers and restaurants throughout California, Colorado, and Florida, and for pre-sale nationwide online at casadelsoltequila.com . It will be available for retail nationally in early 2022.

To kick off the launch of the brand, Casa Del Sol will be present at Aspen Food & Wine Classic from September 10th - 12th, with Eva Longoria co-hosting an intimate, invite-only dinner in celebration of the launch.

ABOUT CASA DEL SOL

Casa Del Sol is a luxury sipping tequila, inspired by the magic of golden hour and Mayahuel, the Aztec goddess of agave, and translates to "house of the sun" in Spanish. Finished in Cognac barrels handcrafted with French Limousin Oak, Casa Del Sol tequila has a distinct flavor and aromatic profile where old world craftsmanship meets new world artistry, infusing Mexican tradition with notes of French heritage. The Casa Del Sol portfolio boasts three premium sipping tequilas, including Blanco, Reposado and Anejo, made from the finest hand-selected 100% Blue Weber agave, grown in Jalisco, Mexico for a minimum of seven years. Casa Del Sol is now available in select cities and online at CasaDelSolTequila.com; and will be available in retail nationwide by early 2022. To learn more, visit CasaDelSolTequila.com and follow Casa Del Sol on Instagram @CasaDelSolTequila .

SOURCE Casa Del Sol

Related Links

https://casadelsoltequila.com


DUBLIN, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "China Electric Vehicle Motor Controller Industry Report, 2021" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Automotive motor controller industry is expected to grow at CAGR of 23.4%, and local manufacturers are rising.

The growing new energy vehicle market gives a boost to the motor controller market.

The supply and demand in the electric vehicle motor controller market is dependent on the expansion of new energy vehicle market.

At present, countries and automakers worldwide have formulated their plans and requirements for the development of new energy vehicles. In future, new energy vehicle sales will be bound to surge. As the new energy vehicle market booms, the motor controller market will make steady growth. It is predicted that China's motor controller market will sustain a CAGR of up to 23.4% between 2020 and 2026.

In the fiercely competitive motor controller market, local manufacturers lead the way.

Currently, China's electric vehicle motor controller market is intensely competitive. There are mainly three types of players: automaker-backed companies, local manufacturers, and foreign/joint-venture manufacturers. Among them, automaker-backed players support their own vehicles; local manufacturers are suppliers of Chinese independent auto brands; foreign/joint-venture companies build supply relationships with foreign/joint-venture auto brands.

Local manufacturers now have the upper hand on the strength of the development of homegrown new energy vehicle brands, especially emerging automakers. In 2020, seven out of the top ten manufacturers by market share were local companies, among which BYD still dominated the list with a 13.5% share; Inovance Technology, Sungrow and Huayu E-drive first edged into the top-ten list.

N-in-one products hold the trend, and three-in-one drive system will become the mainstream

Motor and ECU integration is a way to not only reduce weight and size of products but cut costs of production and procurement and improve efficiency. In current stage, most companies still stay at the two-in-one phase, while the three-in-one drive system will become the mainstream.

In 2020, China shipped more than 500,000 sets of three-in-one electric drive systems for passenger cars, or around 37% of the total motor controller shipments. Companies including Bosch, BYD, Inovance Technology and Jing-Jin Electric have rolled out their three-in-one electric drive systems. One example is Huawei DriveONE three-in-one electric drive system which boasts peak power density of 3kW/kg, the highest in the industry.

Through the lens of market share, the three-in-one system is still an oligopolistic market. In 2020, Tesla, BYD, XPT and NIDEC took a combined 82.1% of the total sales. Yet as Dongfeng SERES SF5 equipped with Huawei three-in-one system goes into mass production in 2021, the competition in the three-in-one electric drive system market will be more intense.

4) Power modules head in high voltage, and silicon carbide becomes a mainstream material.

New energy vehicles now use 400V electrical voltage systems. 80% SOC for a battery takes about 30 minutes, but the use of an 800V voltage system will cut the time down to 10 minutes. The need for fast charge makes high voltage power modules an inevitable trend.

Manufacturers like Hitachi Astemo, BorgWarner, Vitesco, Inovance Technology and ZF currently have introduced their 800V inverter/electric drive system products to meet fast charge needs, and all use silicon carbide (SiC) material except for Hitachi Astemo.

In BorgWarner's case, its SiC inverter mass-produced in 2019 is the first 800V inverter using SiC power switch. The double-sided cooling structure makes the inverter 40% lighter and 30% smaller, improves its power density by 25%, and allows the inverter to perform better in thermal conductivity, high temperature stability and efficiency for shortening the charging time and extending the range.

Key Topics Covered:



1 Overview of Motor Controller

1.1 Definition

1.2 Principle

1.3 Classification

1.4 Key Performance Indicators



2 Electric Vehicle Motor Controller Market

2.1 Status Quo

2.2 Market Size

2.3 Supply Model

2.4 Competitive Pattern

2.5 Supporting Relationships

2.6 Development Trends

2.7 Electric Drive Systems of Major Global Automakers

2.7.1 Tesla Model S Electric Drive System

2.7.2 `8-in-1` Electric Drive/Electronic Control Assembly in BYD E-platform 3.0 Architecture

2.7.3 GM Voltec Intelligent Electric Drive System

2.7.4 Volkswagen MEB Electric Drive System

2.7.5 Toyota Highlander Electric Drive Assembly

2.7.6 Changan `7-in-1` Electric Drive System

2.7.7 BMW eDrive Electric Drive System



3 Global Motor Controller (Inverter) Manufacturers

3.1 Hitachi Astemo

3.2 Mitsubishi Electric

3.3 Robert Bosch

3.4 Continental

3.5 BorgWarner

3.6 Hyundai Mobis

3.7 NIDEC



4 Chinese Motor Controller (Inverter) Manufacturers

4.1 Shanghai Edrive Co., Ltd.

4.2 Shenzhen Inovance Technology Co., Ltd.

4.3 Shanghai Dajun Technologies Inc

4.4 Tianjin Santroll Electric Automobile Technology Co., Ltd.

4.5 Zhongshan Broad-Ocean Motor Co., Ltd.

4.6 United Automotive Electronic Systems Co., Ltd. (UAES)

4.7 Hunan CRRC Times Electric Vehicle Co., Ltd.

4.8 BYD Co., Ltd.

4.9 Zhuhai Enpower Electric Co., Ltd.

4.10 Shenzhen V&T Technologies Co., Ltd.

4.11 Fujian Fugong Engineering Technology Co., Ltd.

4.12 Chroma ATE Inc.

4.13 Jing-Jin Electric Technologies (Beijing) Co., Ltd.

4.14 DEC Dongfeng Electric Machinery Co., Ltd.

4.15 Shenzhen Megmeet Electric Co., Ltd.

4.16 Shanghai XPT Technology Limited

4.17 Huayu Automotive Electric Drive System Co., Ltd.

4.19 Huawei

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/m32bwz

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

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CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG) will host a webcast and conference call to review its fiscal 2022 first quarter results on Thursday, October 7, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. ET. The company's news release will be issued at approximately 7:30 a.m. ET.

The live audio webcast and presentation slides will be available on conagrabrands.com/investor-relations under Events & Presentations. The conference call may be accessed by dialing 1-877-883-0383 for participants in the U.S. and 1-412-902-6506 for all other participants and using passcode 3562825. Please dial in 10 to 15 minutes prior to the call start time. Following the company's remarks, the conference call will include a question-and-answer session with the investment community.

A replay of the webcast will be available until October 7, 2022.

About Conagra Brands

Conagra Brands, Inc. (NYSE: CAG), headquartered in Chicago, is one of North America's leading branded food companies. Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Conagra Brands combines a rich heritage of making great food with a sharpened focus on innovation. The company's portfolio is evolving to satisfy people's changing food preferences. Conagra's iconic brands, such as Birds Eye, Marie Callender's, Banquet, Healthy Choice, Slim Jim, Reddi-wip, and Vlasic, as well as emerging brands, including Angie's BOOMCHICKAPOP, Duke's, Earth Balance, Gardein, and Frontera, offer choices for every occasion. For more information, visit www.conagrabrands.com.

For more information, please contact:

MEDIA: Mike Cummins

312-549-5257

[email protected]

INVESTORS: Brian Kearney

312-549-5002

[email protected]

SOURCE Conagra Brands, Inc.

Related Links

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CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Designalytics, in partnership with Dieline, announced the winners of the second-annual Designalytics Effectiveness Awards, recognizing the power of strong packaging design and its impact on driving double-digit sales growth for some of today's fast-moving consumer brands.



Dark Horse Before and After Redesign Designalytics second-annual Effectiveness Awards recognize the power of strong packaging design and its impact on driving double-digit sales growth for these fast-moving consumer brands

The Designalytics Effectiveness Awards are unique because, unlike traditional design competitions, winner selection is entirely data-driven, based on sales performance in the marketplace and rigorous quantitative consumer testing of each design. For this year's contest, brands and their creative agencies submitted package redesigns launched in the U.S. between July 2018 and July 2020 for consideration.



"Increasingly, consumer-packaged goods companies are realizing that design is a significant driver of brand growth, particularly when it's guided by objective, strategic decision-making. This is a facta bottom-line reality that Designalytics is uniquely positioned to illuminate, and our award winners provide powerful and inspirational proof points," says Steve Lamoureux, CEO and founder of Designalytics.

Dark Horse Leverages Distinctive Assets and Bold Colors as Grand Prize Winner



This year's grand prize winner, previously announced by Dieline, is Dark Horse, a wine brand owned by E. & J. Gallo Winery. ForceMAJEURE, a Brooklyn-based creative agency, led the redesign effort, building on an already top-performing design by leaning into the brand's key distinctive asset: its beloved horse iconography. The agency also assigned a bold color to each varietal, adding some "pop" and making the line easier for consumers to navigate.



The redesign resulted in a 15% increase in sales for Dark Horse following the brand's relaunch relative to the same period during the prior yearsignificantly outpacing the average for similarly-priced wines. Read more about the Dark Horse relaunch here.

Strong Design Drives Sales. Meet This Year's Four Other Winning Brands



This year's winners hail from the food, beverage, and personal care categories. See the complete list of Designalytics Effectiveness Award Winners and download full report here.

Dove (Body Wash)

Manufacturer: Unilever

Agency: forceMAJEURE

A category leader improved on an already-top-performing design by leveraging ingredient photography to capture the product's heightened sensory experiences and the specific benefits of each variety. The redesign resulted in double-digit sales growth for the Dove brand and record share growth, exceeding 20% in the body wash category for the first time.

Morningstar Farms (Plant-Based Meat)

Manufacturer: Kellogg's

Agency: Design B&B

A long-standing leader in a booming category enjoys renewed relevance by modernizing the brand and punching up taste appeal with new food photography. Changes to the hierarchy of communication helped consumers locate specific products more easily and realize the breadth of the brand's offerings. As a result, Morningstar Farm's sales grew by 14% following the relaunch.

Theo Chocolate (Holiday Chocolate)

Manufacturer: Theo Chocolate

Agency: Internal design team

Seasonal packaging for a premium chocolatier's line of holiday products amped up holiday cheer and gifting appeal. The updated packaging increased Theo Chocolate's sales by 37% compared to last year's seasonal packaging, with a 120% sales increase in the grocery channel.

Fat Snax (Keto Cookies)

Manufacturer: Fat Snax

Agency: Interact

A challenger brand skyrocketed distribution and sales at brick-and-mortar retailers with a bold, cheeky look that appeals to mainstream cookie consumers and health-oriented buyers alike. The new design increased retail sales 94% after the relaunch. Notably, sales in Whole Foods stores that had carried Fat Snax prior to the redesign increased by 46% after the new design was introduced.

"The Designalytics Effectiveness Awards serve a unique and incredibly important role in the industry: crystallizing the strong connection between design and brand growth, and doing it in a truly indisputable, data-driven way," says Andrew Gibbs, founder and editor-in-chief at Dieline.



Gear up for 2022 Designalytics Effectiveness Awards. Entries can be submitted through the Dieline Awards platform (http://dielineawards.com/) starting later this year.

*Based on retail sales data from Nielsen and IRI; sales for the six months following each redesign's launch were compared to sales from the same period during the prior year.

About Designalytics

Designalytics provides the industry's first system for monitoring the performance of your brand's and competitors' package designs. By combining syndicated analytics with "on-demand" design testing, brands can manage their designs more proactively and select the design routes that are most likely to drive strong sales performance. Designalytics offers the highest-quality design performance data availablewhile requiring significantly less effort and expense than traditional research solutions. For more information, visit designalytics.com.

About Dieline

Dieline is the leading media brand for consumer packaging and consumer brands. TheDieline.com is the world's most visited packaging design website for sharing design innovation and creativity. In addition to TheDieline.com, Dieline also runs The Dieline Conference in partnership with HOW Design Live, and the annual Dieline Awards, a global competition that recognizes the world's best consumer product packaging design.

Contact: Renee Hewitt for Designalytics

917.965.8712

[email protected]

SOURCE Designalytics
In the section below are highlights from the ongoing drill program. Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a plan view (drill hole location map) and a long section of the program to date. Table 1 has a complete drill hole summary.

Hole 21IG-01 returned 185 metres of 0.44% CuEq (0.33% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 0.41 g/t Ag).

(0.33% Cu, 0.18 g/t Au, 0.41 g/t Ag). Includes: 70 metres of 0.60% CuEq (0.45% Cu, 0.26 g/t Au, 0.46 g/t Ag).

(0.45% Cu, 0.26 g/t Au, 0.46 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-02 returned 146 metres of 0.42% CuEq (0.33% Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 0.52 g/t Ag).

(0.33% Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 0.52 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-04 returned 234 metres of 0.48% CuEq (0.33% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.73 g/t Ag).

(0.33% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.73 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-05 returned 127 metres of 0.42% CuEq (0.31% Cu, 0.19 g/t Au, 0.54 g/t Ag).

(0.31% Cu, 0.19 g/t Au, 0.54 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-06 returned 228 metres of 0.46% CuEq (0.34% Cu, 0.20 g/t Au, 0.68 g/t Ag).

(0.34% Cu, 0.20 g/t Au, 0.68 g/t Ag). Includes: 111 metres of 0.62% CuEq (0.46% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.90 g/t Ag).

(0.46% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.90 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-11 returned 261 metres of 0.61% CuEq (0.48% Cu, 0.21 g/t Au, 0.45 g/t Ag).

(0.48% Cu, 0.21 g/t Au, 0.45 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-12 returned 359 metres of 0.41% CuEq (0.33% Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 0.96 g/t Ag).

(0.33% Cu, 0.14 g/t Au, 0.96 g/t Ag). Includes: 80 metres of 0.67% CuEq (0.51% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 1.52 g/t Ag).

(0.51% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 1.52 g/t Ag). Hole 21IG-16 returned 186 metres of 0.67% CuEq (0.52% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.69 g/t Ag).

(0.52% Cu, 0.25 g/t Au, 0.69 g/t Ag). Hold 21IG-18 returned 105 metres of 0.50% CuEq (0.40% Cu, 0.17 g/t Au, 0.44 g/t Ag).

"These results confirm our view on New Ingerbelle that there is huge reserve growth potential," commented Gil Clausen, Copper Mountain's President and CEO. "The deposit continues to get bigger and better with drilling. We have already doubled the depth of the mineralization and extended it along strike, yet the deposit remains open. The results validate our belief that there is a high potential to substantially increase the Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves at our BC operation. More drilling remains to be done at New Ingerbelle, the north pit, and the main pit, and the Company plans to continue to drill for the remainder of this year and into 2022."

The goal of the current drill program is to extend mineralization laterally and to depth and fill gaps within earlier drilling. The New Ingerbelle deposit is a combination of disseminated and fracture-controlled mineralization with strong vertical continuity. The current drill program to date has significantly extended New Ingerbelle mineralization to depth and along strike. Geology, alteration intensity, and copper-to-gold ratios appear to be relatively consistent over the vertical extent of mineralization.

The Company is continuing to drill at New Ingerbelle to define the vertical and lateral extents of the deposit and infill for resource estimation purposes. Copper Mountain aims to add two more drill rigs in the third quarter of 2021 with plans to continue drilling into 2022. The Company plans to incorporate the results of the 2021 drilling into its year-end Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources update, which will be published in the first quarter of 2022. The Company expects to produce a new "Life of Mine Plan" for publication in the second quarter of 2022, which will incorporate an updated Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources estimate based on the complete drill program.

New Ingerbelle is a past-producing open-pit mine discovered and developed in the late 1960s, with mining occurring between 1972 and 1996. Copper Mountain renewed exploration drilling in 2017 and 2018. New Ingerbelle's Mineral Reserve as at January 1, 2021 is 193 million tonnes grading 0.24% Cu, 0.15 g/t Au and 0.48 g/t Ag (0.33% CuEq)(3) containing 1.0 billion lbs Cu, 920k oz Au and 3.0 million oz Ag (as disclosed in Copper Mountain's Annual Information Form dated March 29, 2021, available on SEDAR).

Table 1: Drill Hole Table(1,2)

Hole ID Azimuth Dip Length From (m) To (m) Interval Cu% Ag g/t Au g/t CuEq%(3) 21IG-01 319.0 -60.0 433.1 13.5 42.0 28.5 0.28 0.54 0.19 0.39







52.0 115.9 62.6 0.29 0.51 0.23 0.42





Incl 52.0 64.0 12.0 0.42 0.67 0.26 0.58







189.1 381.3 184.6 0.33 0.41 0.18 0.44





Incl 189.1 292.8 96.1 0.28 0.42 0.16 0.38





Incl 311.1 381.3 70.2 0.45 0.46 0.26 0.60





















21IG-02 42.0 -46.0 417.6 66.0 88.4 22.4 0.38 0.43 0.25 0.53







115.8 201.2 85.3 0.20 0.40 0.13 0.27





Incl 115.8 152.4 36.6 0.25 0.42 0.20 0.37







243.8 317.0 73.2 0.43 0.69 0.18 0.54







271.3 417.6 146.3 0.33 0.52 0.14 0.42





Incl 387.1 417.6 30.5 0.37 0.52 0.17 0.47





















21IG-03 325.0 -62.0 367.9 39.0 67.0 28.0 0.41 1.32 0.14 0.50







93.0 111.0 18.0 0.33 0.66 0.26 0.49







153.0 252.1 99.1 0.21 0.37 0.12 0.28







285.5 355.7 70.2 0.28 0.48 0.18 0.39





Incl 316.1 355.7 39.6 0.31 0.51 0.20 0.43





















21IG-04 132.0 -49.0 462.7 40.0 273.7 233.7 0.33 0.73 0.25 0.48







289.0 307.2 18.3 0.16 0.26 0.09 0.22







389.5 407.8 18.3 0.18 0.31 0.08 0.23





















21IG-05 355.0 -74.0 321.0 77.0 203.9 126.9 0.31 0.54 0.19 0.42





Incl 77.0 119.0 42.0 0.41 0.84 0.24 0.56





Incl 119.0 203.9 84.9 0.25 0.40 0.16 0.35





















21IG-06 222.0 -46.0 603.0 38.0 102.0 64.0 0.28 0.57 0.20 0.40







130.0 157.0 27.0 0.28 0.52 0.18 0.39







223.0 238.0 15.0 0.42 1.06 0.28 0.59







301.0 529.0 228.0 0.34 0.68 0.20 0.46





Incl 301.0 334.0 33.0 0.39 0.74 0.26 0.55





Incl 334.0 418.0 84.0 0.16 0.37 0.11 0.22





Incl 418.0 529.0 111.0 0.46 0.90 0.25 0.62





















21IG-07 218.0 -61.0 508.4 53.0 69.0 16.0 0.34 0.78 0.14 0.43







156.0 183.0 27.0 0.21 0.46 0.15 0.30







198.0 231.0 33.0 0.24 0.43 0.20 0.36







243.0 342.0 99.0 0.26 0.51 0.11 0.33







369.0 405.0 36.0 0.20 0.29 0.17 0.31







474.0 501.0 27.0 0.15 0.23 0.09 0.20





















21IG-08 242.0 -57.0 552.9 398.7 551.1 152.4 0.25 0.34 0.12 0.32





















21IG-11 146.0 -68.0 540.0 77.0 107.0 30.0 0.59 0.67 0.21 0.71







145.0 237.0 92.0 0.21 0.30 0.12 0.28







261.0 522.0 261.0 0.48 0.45 0.21 0.61





















21IG-12 96.0 -90.0 465.2 5.3 88.0 82.7 0.24 0.55 0.11 0.30







96.0 455.0 359.0 0.33 0.96 0.14 0.41





incl 96.0 176.0 80.0 0.51 1.52 0.25 0.67





incl 203.0 266.0 63.0 0.38 0.66 0.17 0.49





incl 278.0 362.0 84.0 0.29 1.63 0.12 0.37





incl 389.0 455.0 66.0 0.34 0.47 0.14 0.42





















21IG-15 146.0 -53.0 732.0 12.0 40.0 14.0 0.60 1.40 0.37 0.83







52.0 74.0 11.0 0.69 1.05 0.55 1.01







82.0 96.0 14.0 0.24 0.38 0.13 0.32







156.0 171.0 15.0 0.38 0.79 0.22 0.51







222.0 234.0 12.0 0.32 0.60 0.28 0.48







261.0 414.0 153.0 0.35 0.64 0.15 0.43







456.0 552.0 96.0 0.27 0.45 0.12 0.34







648.0 708.0 60.0 0.23 0.40 0.09 0.28











































21IG-16 115.7 -56.6 706.0 20.0 88.0 68.0 0.30 0.56 0.12 0.38







128.0 134.0 6.0 0.39 0.76 0.20 0.51







297.0 396.0 99.0 0.22 0.38 0.09 0.27







408.0 444.0 36.0 0.41 0.90 0.26 0.57







468.0 654.0 186.0 0.52 0.69 0.25 0.67





















21IG-18 123.0 -51.0 432.0 131.0 236.0 105.0 0.40 0.44 0.17 0.50





Incl 131.0 164.0 33.0 0.52 0.58 0.22 0.65





Incl 173.0 236.0 63.0 0.39 0.42 0.16 0.48







245.0 269.0 24.0 0.16 0.31 0.07 0.20







281.0 299.0 18.0 0.25 0.51 0.10 0.31

Notes: 1. Holes 21IG-09, 21IG-10, 21IG-13, 21IG-14 and 21IG17 were lost due to ground conditions. 2. Table shows detailed drill results of intercepts over 0.20% CuEq. 3. CuEq calculated from NSR values when using long-term bank consensus metal prices (in US$) of $3.35, $1,599, $21.40 and recoveries of 85%, 71%, 65% for Cu, Au, and Ag, respectively.

QA/QC and Core Sampling Protocols

Drill core is transported to the secure logging area by geological staff. Sample intervals are marked on the core which is halved by diamond saw. Sample size is usually 2m for HQ and 3m for NQ core diameters. Blanks and field duplicates are inserted into the sample stream and the half core samples are taken to the mine laboratory where samples are dried, crushed, split, and pulverized. The pulverized sample is analyzed by XRF methods, with samples containing greater than 0.4% Cu being re-analyzed by Atomic Adsorption (AA) methods by the mine laboratory which also reports on inserted certified reference standards. Pulps from samples with greater than 0.1% Cu are shipped to an accredited commercial laboratory for Au and Ag analysis (either by Fire assay or AA methods) and every twentieth sample is analyzed for Cu and Ag by ICP multi-element analysis. Such laboratory is independent from Copper Mountain. The drill samples were collected in accordance with accepted industry standards. There are no known issues that would materially affect the accuracy or reliability of the analytical data from the drill program presented herein.

Competent Persons Statement

The information in this report that relates to exploration targets, exploration results, Mineral Resources or ore reserves is based on information compiled by Peter Holbek, B.Sc (Hons), M.Sc. P. Geo. Mr. Holbek is a full time employee of the Company and has sufficient experience which is relevant to the style of mineralization and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 Edition of the 'Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves'. Mr. Holbek consents to the inclusion in this news release of the matters based on the information in the form and context in which it appears.

Peter Holbek is a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 ("43-101") and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release.

About Copper Mountain Mining Corporation

Copper Mountain's flagship asset is the 75% owned Copper Mountain Mine located in southern British Columbia near the town of Princeton. The Copper Mountain Mine currently produces approximately 100 million pounds of copper equivalent per year, with average annual production expected to increase to approximately 140 million pounds of copper equivalent. Copper Mountain also has the development-stage Eva Copper Project in Queensland, Australia and an extensive 2,100 km2 highly prospective land package in the Mount Isa area. Copper Mountain trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "CMMC" and Australian Stock Exchange under the symbol "C6C".

Additional information is available on the Company's web page at www.CuMtn.com.

On behalf of the Board of

COPPER MOUNTAIN MINING CORPORATION

"Gil Clausen"

Gil Clausen, P.Eng.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of terminology such as "plans", "expects", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements concerning, among other things: the Company's intention to add two more drill rigs at New Ingerbelle in the third quarter of 2021; the timing of the Company's drilling program; the results of the Company's exploration and development programs; Mineral Resources, Mineral Reserves, realization of Mineral Reserves, and the existence or realization of Mineral Resource estimates; the timing of studies, announcements, and analysis; the potential to add the expected increase in the Company's average annual production; the Company's intentions regarding its objectives, goals or future plans; and all other timing, exploration, development, operational, financial, budgetary, economic, legal, social, environmental, regulatory, and political matters that may influence or be influenced by future events or conditions. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance and opportunities to differ materially from those implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include the successful exploration of the Company's properties in Canada and Australia, the reliability of the historical data referenced in this press release and risks set out in Copper Mountain's public documents, including in each management discussion and analysis, filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although Copper Mountain believes that the information and assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Copper Mountain disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release includes Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources classification terms that comply with reporting standards in Canada and the Mineral Reserves and the Mineral Resources estimates are made in accordance with NI 43-101. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") set out in the SEC rules that are applicable to domestic United States reporting companies. Consequently, Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources information included in this press release may not be comparable to similar information that would generally be disclosed by domestic U.S. reporting companies subject to the reporting and disclosure requirements of the SEC. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth herein may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.

SOURCE Copper Mountain Mining Corporation

Related Links

http://cumtn.com/


SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Curebase, a company committed to democratizing access to clinical studies, has named clinical trial veteran Wayne Bowden as Vice President of Business Development.

Curebase's decentralized clinical trial model enables faster, more efficient, more diverse studies because unique and remote populations  which are typically underrepresented in clinical trials  can be included. The company's virtual research sites, complete with virtual coordinator and physician staff, also offer patients unique clinical assessment options, regardless of location. The Curebase platform empowers sponsors, CROs and physicians from practices of all sizes to conduct clinical research, including private practices, independent clinics, and large academic research sites.

Bowden will leverage his more than a decade of experience to identify new avenues for growth within Curebase. In that capacity he will serve as a key voice defining the company's go to market strategy and value proposition across the many segments of the pharmaceuticals and device research industry.

"Wayne's long experience in building partnerships in the clinical trial space, combined with his scientific background and education, makes him an ideal candidate to lead Curebase's business development efforts," said Tom Lemberg, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Curebase. "He is an 'out of the box' thinker and enthusiastic problem solver, traits that will help us continue to improve our clinical trial platform and lead to better drug studies that benefit patients and our customers."

Immediately prior to joining Curebase, Bowden was vice president of partnerships and strategy for clinical research organization Biorasi, where he was responsible for clinical trial program optimization, development of enterprise partnerships and strategic account management. As a key member of the executive management team and head of commercial operations he helped to lead the company to a successful private equity transaction in late 2018. Prior to his industry tenure at Biorasi, Bowden was a published researcher and scientist.

"Curebase is deeply committed to transforming clinical trials by making them more participant-friendly, inclusive, and efficient," Bowden said. "I'm excited to be playing a role in helping the company build our customer base, strengthen our market position, and develop strategic partnerships."

Bowden received his MBA in healthcare management from FIU and Bachelor of Science degree in neurobiology and neurosciences from the University of Texas at Austin.

About Curebase

At Curebase, our mission is to bring quality medical innovations to patients faster and improve human wellbeing through more efficient clinical studies. We are proving that clinical research can be radically accelerated if we empower physicians everywhere to enroll patients in the communities where they live. By applying cutting edge clinical software and remote study management techniques to the problem, we are reinventing clinical trials and research from the ground up. For more information, please visit www.curebase.com.

Media Contact:

Shawn Malloy

[email protected]

315-882-5310

SOURCE Curebase

Related Links

https://www.curebase.com


AWS, CapitalG, and Microsoft join $1.6 billion raise as the company hits $38 billion valuation

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Databricks, the Data and AI company and a pioneer of the data lakehouse architecture, today announced the final closing of their recent Series H funding. Cloud leaders and existing investors Amazon Web Services (AWS), CapitalG, and Microsoft will participate in Databricks' $1.6 billion round of funding, which puts the company at a $38 billion post-money valuation. The Series H funding will be used to accelerate innovation and adoption of the lakehouse as the data architecture's popularity across data-driven organizations continues to grow at a rapid pace.

"We are delighted to once again include our most strategic partners in this latest round of funding, as it validates our vision for an open and unified approach to data and AI on any cloud," said Ali Ghodsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Databricks. "As we jointly make more organizations successful in their move to the cloud and accelerate adoption of the lakehouse architecture, we're excited to see these partnerships  and the ecosystems formed around them  continue to grow for decades to come."

Databricks has pioneered a simple and open architecture for data and AI, which brings the reliability, governance, and performance of a data warehouse directly to the data lakes that most organizations already store all of their data in. Rather than being forced to move data out of the data lake, and between various disconnected and legacy systems for different use cases, Databricks customers are building analytics platforms on AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud to support every data and analytics workload in a single, unified location.

About Databricks

Databricks is the data and AI company. More than 5,000 organizations worldwide  including Comcast, Conde Nast, H&M, and over 40% of the Fortune 500  rely on the Databricks Lakehouse Platform to unify their data, analytics and AI. Databricks is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices around the globe. Founded by the original creators of Apache Spark, Delta Lake and MLflow, Databricks is on a mission to help data teams solve the world's toughest problems. To learn more, follow Databricks on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Press Contact: [email protected]

IR Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Databricks

Related Links

https://databricks.com


CEO of XO, Craig Friedman says, "David Burke has identified himself as being a true lover of fine food and understands how it is about the experience . Our luxury appliances are built to provide customers with that perfect restaurant quality addition to their own outdoor experiences. The opportunity for a non-professional consumer to be able to tap into the same tools that the pros use is a game-changer. We felt that David Burke would be the best guy to put XO to the test and show people all the great things that could be done with our appliances."

Named an Entrepreneur Of The Year 2021 New Jersey, Burke has restaurants at seven locations across the state. At 26, Burke's kitchen mastery won him the executive chef position of New York City's legendary River Cafe. He became the first American to win the prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France Diplome d'Honneur. He subsequently won Japan's Nippon Award for Excellence and the Robert Mondavi Award of Excellence. Burke was also awarded a coveted three-star New York Times review for the River Cafe and became a guest on TV's Top Chef.

Discussing the XO partnership, Burke says, "XO has gone to great lengths to manufacture restaurant quality equipment. I've opened more than 25 successful restaurants around the world and know a bit about equipment. After using XO Appliances, I am now a proud owner. The XO equipment in my yard is better than in some of my restaurants! They are not only functional  every piece is to be admired like fine art. XO doesn't fail to deliver."

XO looks forward to sharing the cooking experiences Burke will be having with them. This will include exclusive monthly recipes developed by him for our customers to recreate on their own. Customers can take advantage of the professional tricks he'll be using to get the maximum benefit from cooking with XO appliances, thereby allowing people to take their own outdoor experiences to a whole new level. Enjoy XO, with love.

SOURCE XO Appliances
BANGALORE, India, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital PCR Market by Technologies (Droplet Digital PCR, Chip Based Digital PCR and BEAMing Digital PCR), Product Type (Digital PCR Systems, Consumables & Reagents, and Software & Services), Application (Research, Clinical Diagnostics, and Forensic & Others), and End User (Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology Industries, Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories, and Universities & Other Organizations): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2028. It is published in Valuates Reports under the Medical Devices & Equipment Category.

The global digital polymerase chain reaction market generated USD 508.8 million in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 1,139.9 million by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 9.1% from 2021 to 2028.

The digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) is a laboratory technique for making multiple copies of a specific piece of DNA from a sample with very small amounts of DNA. These fragments of DNA can be amplified and detected using PCR. It also provides for precise and sensitive nucleic acid measurement. It's also employed for absolute quantification and minority sequence analysis.

Major factors driving the growth of the Digital PCR market are

The rise in the incidence of infectious diseases, as well as increased knowledge and acceptance of tailored treatments, are driving the expansion of the digital polymerase chain reaction market.

Furthermore, technological developments as a result of increased funding for R&D activities are likely to drive Digital PCR market expansion during the forecast period.

View full Report: https://reports.valuates.com/reports/ALLI-Manu-4P27/digital-pcr

TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE DIGITAL PCR MARKET

The growth of the digital PCR market is projected to be fueled by the rising prevalence of infectious diseases and genetic disorders. As a result of its increasing use in the diagnosis of major infectious diseases and genetic disorders, the market for genomic analysis tools has gradually expanded over the last decade.

High sensitivity and absolute quantification: dPCR is more sensitive and clinically useful than real-time fluorogenic quantitative PCR. The typical PCR system is done by several microunits in dPCR, which greatly increases the PCR system's tolerance to inhibitors. Traditional PCR has a sensitivity of up to 1%, whereas dPCR has a sensitivity of up to 0.1 percent, and in certain cases as low as 0.001 percent, making it a perfect technique for trace DNA identification, uncommon mutation detection, and notably circulating tumor DNA detection. Furthermore, dPCR has been technologically upgraded to become a more operational and compatible tool, with highly understandable two-dimensional data. These advantages offered by dPCR are expected to increase the Digital PCR market.

The small volume of sample: Even when only a small volume of sample is available, dPCR still achieves good accuracy, especially when identifying difficult-to-take samples or samples with the damaged nucleic acid. Clinical samples should be amplified when performing other genomic analyses, such as comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) chip or next-generation sequencing (NGS), to provide a large enough volume, but dPCR can be performed with a small number of samples, yielding reliable results by eliminating the error generating from preamplification. Thus, the ability to produce accurate results even with smaller sample size is increasing the adoption of dPCR , which in turn, is expected to increase the growth of the digital PCR market.

There have been numerous studies published since the COVID-19 pandemic in favor of dPCR for COVID-19 testing. Due to several variables such as higher sensitivity of ddPCR(Droplet Digital PCR), absence of inhibition from sample types, and simplicity of comprehending the data, there has been a considerable increase in demand for ddPCR equipment and SARS-CoV-2 kits. Thus the COVID outbreak is expected to further propel the Digital PDR market.

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Digital PCR Market SHARE Analysis:

Based on technology, the Droplet Digital PCR segment holds a dominant position in 2020 and would continue to maintain the lead over the forecast period. Because the ddPCR technique delivers an accurate estimate of DNA molecules with each drop, it was the leading revenue provider in 2020. Furthermore, a crucial component of the droplet digital PCR technology is enormous sample splitting, which increases demand.

Based on product type, the software & services segment is projected to exhibit the fastest growth during the forecast period, as the software helps improve the efficiency of management of digital PCR data. Thus, there is an increase in the demand for these products, thereby propelling the Digital PCR Market growth.

Based on region, North America was the leading revenue contributor to the global digital polymerase chain reaction market by 2020, and is expected to remain dominant throughout the forecast period. This is due to the region's well-developed healthcare industry, as well as the existence of prominent molecular diagnostics firms and an increase in the number of patients receiving tailored medicines. However, due to an increase in the number of patients suffering from chronic diseases and improvements in healthcare facilities in the region, Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 14.45 percent during the forecast period, providing lucrative opportunities for molecular diagnostics players.

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DIGITAL PCR MARKET KEY SEGMENTATION

Digital PCR Market By Technology

Droplet Digital PCR

Chip Based Digital PCR

BEAMing Digital PCR

Digital PCR Market By Product Type

Digital PCR Systems

Consumables & Reagents

Software & Services

Digital PCR Market By Application

Research

Clinical Diagnostics

Forensic & Others

Digital PCR Market By End User

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology Industries

Clinical Diagnostic Laboratories

Universities & Other Organizations

Digital PCR Market By Region

North America

U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



France



UK



Italy



Spain



Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

Japan



China



Australia



India



South Korea



Taiwan



Rest of Asia-Pacific

LAMEA

Brazil



Saudi Arabia



South Africa



Rest of LAMEA

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SIMILAR REPORTS :

- The global Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) market size is projected to reach USD 8868.3 million by 2027, from USD 6295.5 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 5.0% during 2021-2027.

- The global Digital PCR (dPCR) and Real-Time PCR (qPCR) market size is projected to reach USD 1879.8 million by 2027, from USD 1180.1 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 6.8% during 2021-2027.

- The global Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technologies market size is projected to reach USD 8831.5 million by 2027, from USD 6915.2 million in 2020, at a CAGR of 3.5% during 2021-2027.

- Global Digital PCR Platform Market Research Report contains Market Size, Market Share, Market Dynamics, Porter's 5 force Analysis, Segmentation, Regional and Competitor Analysis. Product-Type: Microfluidic Chip Digital PCR, Droplet Digital PCR, Application: Medical Institutions, Universities And Research Institutes, Government, Other Apps.

- Global Digital PCR Instrument Sales Market Research Report contains Market Size, Market Share, Market Dynamics, Porter's 5 force Analysis, Segmentation, Regional and Competitor Analysis. Product-Type: Low Throughput, Medium Throughput, High Throughput, Application: Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Industries, Academic and Research Organizations.

- In 2020, the global DNA Sequencing market size was USD 13380 million and it is expected to reach USD 48700 million by the end of 2027, with a CAGR of 20.4% during 2021-2027.

- In 2020, the global qPCR and dPCR Instrumentation market size was US$ 1158 million and it is expected to reach US$ 1895.5 million by the end of 2027, with a CAGR of 7.3% during 2021-2027.

- Global and Japan Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Products Market

- Global qRT-PCR Market Size, Status and Forecast 2021-2027

- Global Instant PCR Equipment Sales Market Report 2021

Click Here To See Related Reports On DPCR Market

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CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Easterseals, Inc., today announced that its president and CEO Angela F. Williams will leave the organization on October 15, 2021, to join United Way Worldwide as its president and CEO.

Easterseals National Board Chair Nancy Goguen, in making the announcement, recognized Williams' leadership since joining the organization in January of 2018. "We congratulate Angela in her new role at United Way. We are grateful to her for the many contributions she has made to Easterseals in our purpose to lead the way to full equity, inclusion, and access to healthcare, employment, and education for the one in four Americans living with disability today," Goguen said.

Since joining Easterseals, Williams has been instrumental in advocating for people with disabilities, their families, and communities through national media and public policy initiatives at the federal level. She led the organization's 100th Anniversary in 2019 as it began its second century of service. Throughout her tenure, she continued to drive growth, impact, and funding to support services delivered by the organization's national network of 67 Affiliates to enrich education, enhance health, expand employment, and elevate community participation for the 1.5 million individuals and families served by Easterseals annually.

"It has been an honor to serve Easterseals," said Williams. "I am proud of the work it does on behalf of people with disabilities, especially during the past 18 months of the pandemic when our Affiliates were committed to ensure the urgent needs of our program participants, families, and communities were met."

Named to Forbes' 2021 List of Women 50 Over 50 Creating Social Change at Scale and included among CEO Today Magazine's 2021 Healthcare Award winners, Williams has more than 30 years of management and executive leadership experience. A Chicago resident, Williams serves on the board of The Chicago Network.

About Easterseals

Easterseals is leading the way to full equity, inclusion, and access through life-changing disability and community services. For more than 100 years, we have worked tirelessly with our partners to enhance quality of life and expand local access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. And we won't rest until every one of us is valued, respected, and accepted. Through our national network of Affiliates, Easterseals provides essential services and on-the-ground supports to more than 1.5 million people each year  including early childhood programs for the critical first five years, autism services, medical rehabilitation and employment services, veteran's services, and more. Our public education, policy, and advocacy initiatives positively shape perceptions and address the urgent and evolving needs of the one in four Americans living with disabilities today. Together, we're empowering people with disabilities, families, and communities to be full and equal participants in society.

SOURCE Easterseals

Related Links

http://www.easterseals.com


CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Einblick , a visual data computing platform, based on years of research at MIT and Brown University, today announced sponsorship of and participation in the upcoming Citizen Data Science Summit hosted by MIT in Boston, September 20, 2021. The goal of this one-day virtual and in-person conference is to bring together researchers, companies that are creating analytics tools to be more accessible to the entire business, and organizations who want to expand their analytics capabilities across a distributed workforce. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from each other, collaborate, discuss and network with peers and thought leaders ranging from professors of computer science at leading universities such as MIT, Columbia University, and University of Michigan, as well as technology vendors and data scientists.

"Einblick is sponsoring the Citizen Data Science Summit to provide a forum for discussing new models of modern analytic tools that are making the democratization of analytics possible," said Tim Kraska, Founder and CEO at Einblick. "With Einblick's visual data computing platform, teams can explore tough analytic questions together in real time on a simple to use collaborative analytic workspace."

Where: Hyatt Regency Boston/Cambridge and Virtually

When: September 20, 2021

Topics will include:

Challenges in creating and supporting Citizen Data Scientists

Tools for the Citizen Data Scientist

Research that supports data science democratization

Lessons learned in making analytics more accessible

Demos from leading technology vendors

The lineup of speakers continues to grow, but will include:

Michael Cafarella , professor of computer science, University of Michigan

, professor of computer science, Eugene Wu , professor of computer science, Columbia University

, professor of computer science, Anhai Doan, professor of computer science, University of Wisconsin- Madison

Anthony Deighton , chief product officer, Tamr

, chief product officer, Tamr Michel Tricot, CEO Airbyte

Tim Kraska , MIT professor and CEO of Einblick

, professor and CEO of Einblick Natalie Morse , senior data scientist at Torqata

, senior data scientist at Torqata Stefan Langenbach , senior machine learning engineer at Covestro

Register for the event virtually or in person for free by using the Einblick registration link: www.eventbrite.com/e/162435728637/?discount=EINBLICK-2441

About Einblick

Einblick is a visual data computing platform that provides the fastest way for organizations to understand the past, predict the future and make the best data-driven decisions for their business. Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Einblick was developed based on six years of research at MIT and Brown University. Einblick customers include large car manufacturers, ISxPs, the US Government and are backed by DARPA. Einblick is funded by Amplify Partners, Flybridge and Samsung Next. For more information, please visit www.einblick.ai and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter .

Media Contact:

Robyn Fernsworth

R2PR for Einblick

415-412-0300

[email protected]

SOURCE Einblick

Related Links

Einblick.ai


PHOENIX, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Elio Motors OTCMKTS: ELIO, (eliomotors.com) is announcing their intention to produce an electric version of their three-wheeled vehicle. The announcement is based on the change in consumer demand and finance markets' new appetite for electric vehicles. The Elio-E model has a targeted base at $14,900 making it the most affordable entry level electric vehicle on the market.

Elio Motors was founded with a vision to create a high mileage, low-cost vehicle that everyone could afford. During the initial development phase Elio Motors believed that the best strategy was to first develop a gas-powered option, establish it in the marketplace, and then launch the electric version. The entire automotive landscape has changed significantly, and Elio Motors now believes that it is better to first develop an electric powered Elio-E and get it into production. Elio Motors was able to garner over 65,000 reservations for the (Elio-G) gas-powered vehicle, proving the demand for its unique styling and design. Once the electric version is produced, Elio plans to potentially launch the Elio-G for consumers looking for a gas powered alternative.

Most of the engineering for proof of concept for the gas Elio-G can be utilized in the development of the electric Elio-E. Elio contacted its engineering partner Roush and their assessment was that the current design could be successfully electrified. Utilizing the work already completed will significantly shorten development time versus a clean sheet of paper approach. Elio built a series of prototypes of the Elio G, some of which will be retrofitted into electric versions for testing. Elio Motors' progress in many other areas should be valuable to the ultimate successful creation of the Elio-E. For instance, Elio Motors went state by state and created the new category of vehicles eliminating the need to wear a helmet in your fully enclosed Elio. The plant in Shreveport is still under lease, and all of the critical manufacturing equipment is still in place.

"We never quit working to make this dream happen," said Paul Elio, CEO of Elio Motors, "The market has changed, and investors and consumers are looking for innovative, environmentally conscious, low cost electric vehicles, and we have a great option that will appeal to a very large under-served market".

Elio plans to offer its base three-wheeled Elio-E at a targeted price of under $15,000, giving consumers an economical and safe entry level option into the electric market that is thousands below other competitors' offerings.

About Elio

Founded by car enthusiast Paul Elio, Elio Motors Inc. represents a revolutionary approach to manufacturing low cost electric and gas powered vehicles. The three-wheel electric Elio is engineered to be the ultimate low cost commuter and fleet vehicle while providing the comfort of amenities. The Elio will be nicely equipped with power windows, power door locks, air conditioning and cruise control, accompanied by the safety of multiple air-bags and an aerodynamic, enclosed vehicle body. Elio's first manufacturing site will be in Shreveport, Louisiana.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release including, but not limited to, statements related to anticipated commencement of commercial production, targeted pricing and performance goals, and statements that otherwise relate to future periods are forward-looking statements. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, which are described in more detail in the Company's periodic reports filed with the SEC, specifically the most recent reports which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are made and based on information available to the Company on the date of this press release. Elio Motors assumes no obligation to update the information in this press release.

SOURCE Elio Motors
"Our expanded leadership team is a reflection of our commitment to aggressively growing our user base while continuing to delight customers with exceptional products at reasonable prices, all while leveraging the power of discovery and social sharing," said Larry Liu, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Weee!. "These talented and accomplished leaders bring an extraordinary depth of experience and diverse insights to Weee!, and I'm excited to see what their talents will bring to the next phase of growth for the company."

Amanda Oren

Vice President, Merchandising Services and Planning



Amanda Oren will help expand product variety, oversee category management, and offer competitive pricing. Weee!'s selection currently includes more than 4,000 fresh and shelf-stable items ranging from essentials to highly seasonal merchandise, with more than 150 new products added per week nationwide. Oren brings more than 18 years of retail and grocery leadership to Weee!, including her recent role as Vice President of Operations at Grocery Outlet, as well as senior roles at Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and Macy's.

Judy Phyo

Vice President, Corporate Controller



Judy Phyo will play a critical role in scaling up accounting functions as Corporate Controller in preparation for a public listing. Phyo brings over 14 years of experience including her prior role as Corporate Controller for Illumio, an enterprise security software company, where she was responsible for accounting and finance operations and transforming processes to support a rapidly growing business. She also spent four years at Tesla and was responsible for global inventory accounting and technical accounting. Prior to joining Tesla, Phyo spent seven years at Ernst and Young in the audit practice.

Nitin Jain

Vice President, Financial Planning & Analysis



Nitin Jain is leading corporate finance as head of the finance team to partner with business functions across operations, supply chain, merchandising and marketing. Jain brings 20 years of finance leadership experience to Weee!, including the last 14 years at Walmart where he served in a variety of roles. He helped scale Walmart India from zero to $1B, and held finance leadership roles in merchandising, supply chain and operations across Walmart US and its e-commerce division.

About Weee! Inc.



Weee! is the fastest-growing ethnic e-grocer in the United States, operating in one of the largest underserved categories in retail with convenient and affordable access to exciting ethnic food. Products are guaranteed to be delivered at peak freshness and priced lower than or comparable to offline stores. By partnering with local suppliers, redesigning the value chain and leveraging social buying, Weee! is reshaping the food-at-home delivery business entirely.

Weee! has fulfilled more than 10 million orders to date as it continues to engage the broader Asian and Hispanic communities with state-of-the-art personalization and social commerce features. Weee! merchandise is meticulously sourced and includes rare and often exclusive products such as fresh Pacific black cod from Half Moon Bay, Kyoho grapes, and air-flown Hokkaido uni. The company currently offers fresh grocery delivery service across 13 states and ships shelf-stable products nationwide.

Forward-Looking Statement



This announcement contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements provide our current expectations or forecasts of future events. Forward-looking statements include statements about our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, assumptions and other statements that are not historical facts. Words or phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "ongoing," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "strive," "will" or similar words or phrases, or the negatives of those words or phrases, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Examples of forward-looking statements in this announcement include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our disclosure concerning the Company's operations, cash flows, financial position and dividend policy.

Press Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Weee

Related Links

sayweee.com


Mr. Cardinali brings more than 25 years of strategic leadership expertise and an unmatched track record of driving international brand growth in the luxury fashion space. He joins Etro from Dolce & Gabbana, where he held several roles with the company, and most recently served as Chief Operating Officer and executive member of the board since June 2017. His nearly 13-year tenure at Dolce & Gabbana was interspersed with five years within Richemont, where he held the role of Chief Executive Officer of several luxury fashion brands of the group, including Dunhill and Lancel.

In this new role, Mr. Cardinali will work closely with and be supported by L Catterton, the largest global consumer-focused private equity firm, which announced a strategic partnership with the business in July 2021, as well as the Etro family, including Founder and Chairman Gerolamo Etro.

"I am thrilled by the opportunity to join Etro during such an exciting time for this iconic fashion house," said Mr. Cardinali. "I have long admired the Company's heritage and its distinctive Italian style and craftsmanship, and I look forward to working closely with L Catterton, the Etro family, and the entire leadership team to capitalize on a number of exciting opportunities to grow the customer base and expand our category offerings and international footprint."

"We are delighted to welcome Fabrizio to Etro," said Luigi Feola, Managing Partner and Head of Europe at L Catterton. "Having established himself as an unparalleled leader in luxury fashion with incredible vision and creative energy, his depth of expertise and operational acumen make him well-suited to drive this new chapter of growth as we look to build on Etro's incredible legacy around the world."

"As we enter into this meaningful new phase for the Company, we are pleased to welcome an experienced and bright manager like Fabrizio," added Founder and Chairman Gerolamo Etro. "I am convinced that his vision and knowledge of the business will strongly contribute to enhance Etro's future growth and strengthen its positioning as a leading fashion brand in the global luxury scene."

About Etro

Founded by Gerolamo Etro in 1968 and headquartered in Milan, Etro is today a globally known luxury brand boasting global reach and consumer recognition. Etro's global footprint relies on a widespread multi-channel retailing strategy that makes the brand's offering available worldwide, starting with approximately 140 brand's flagship stores in over 58 countries across Europe, the United States, Russia, Middle East and APAC. Milan, London, Paris, New York, Beijing, and Tokyo are among the main capitals where Etro has established its strong presence through prestigious real estate locations positioned on the paramount streets of the luxury shopping map. Etro's distribution network further reaches with approximately 20 travel retail doors, extending the brand's purchase experience to major international hubs, and by an attentive wholesale selection of leading department stores and multi-brand boutiques. In addition, online plays an increasingly pivotal role in Etro's direct-to-consumer journey across the continents, with brand's directly operated e-commerce currently operating throughout Europe, the United States, and Japan, while simultaneously developing exclusive collaborations with the most influential digital marketplaces internationally.

Media contact

Etro

Carlo Mengucci | [email protected] | +39 335 5769912

Federico Steiner | [email protected] | +39 335 424278

Marina Riva | [email protected] |+39 347 2975426

SOURCE Etro

Related Links

http://www.etro.com


MADRID, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- European architecture studio Lecoc Arquitectura has been nominated for an international WAN Award for the groundbreaking design of Oran's cancer hospital, known as Oncopole L'espoir, in Algeria, North Africa.

The hospital, which already won a prestigious IF Design Award last May, competes in the Healthcare Architecture category, which acknowledges the most outstanding hospitals, clinics, and healthcare spaces.

Lecoc is the only Spanish healthcare architecture firm nominated in an edition of the WANs that includes global headliners such as Foster + Partners and Zaha Hadid Architects.

In the distinct category of Healthcare Architecture, Lecoc is joined by other firms such as White Arkitekter, Kaunitz Yeung Architecture, Gensler, SmithGroup with Mark Cavagnero Associates, and Perkins&Will have been nominated.

Alongside Oran's Oncology Hospital, the expansion of the University of Virginia University Hospital in the United States, the City of Hope Medical and Administrative Leadership Pavilion, and the Puntukurnu Aboriginal Medical Service in Australia have also earned nominations.

Due to the current health emergency, the prize will be awarded in a virtual ceremony between November 17th and November 19th.

The Oncopole L'espoir is one of the most emblematic cancer hospitals in the Middle East and North Africa.

Designed in Valencia, Spain, where the studio is headquartered, it incorporates a specialised hospitalization center, operating theaters, outpatient clinics, and laboratories.

The construction retains the traditional architectural wisdom of Algeria and Oran, reinterprets in a contemporary way elements of traditional Mediterranean architecture, mainly the "musharabia."

Furthermore, it consolidates the space with the most cutting-edge medical technology from suppliers such as General Electric, IBA, or Elekta.

In the Oncopole, there is also a Centre for Research and Training in Oncology, focusing on nuclear medicine.

"Soon, the creation of all healing spaces will necessarily integrate the environment and a respect for both people and an understanding of their medical needs. Therefore, we are proud that once again, internationally, the Oran Cancer Hospital is recognized as a key medical building worldwide," explains Fernando Pedrosa. He is a director of the firm, together with his partner Alicia Medrano.

Medrano adds: "In the future world of healthcare architecture, everything must be focused on patient comfort, improving their health and well-being.

The hospital is located in the center of Oran, and its concept emphasizes the use of natural illumination, plus the amalgamation of modernity and North African architectural tradition.

Lecoc Arquitectura has matured to become a fixture in the European healthcare architectural scene over the past few years.

It was founded in 2017 and is currently working on projects in Europe and Africa.

Its motto is "Just Essential Architecture", and is known for its passion for blending environment and construction and the use of neat, white spaces.

The studio is currently developing a second hospital in Oran and has been awarded yet another medical space in Algiers, with a budget of more than 80 million dollars.

SOURCE Lecoc.es
ST. LOUIS, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A 638-acre farm with development potential northeast of St. Louis will be offered at auction Oct. 20, with Schrader Real Estate and Auction Company conducting the event.

The farm will be offered in 15 tracts ranging in size from 15 acres to 85 acres. Most of the land is currently used as highly productive cropland. But the location 15 miles northeast of St. Louis and six miles west of Edwardsville, Illinois, also has development potential.

"The land is near the Gateway Commerce Center, in a fast growing area for distribution and warehousing. It is zoned heavy industrial, has easy access to Interstates 255 and 270 and has utilities available. In addition, it is about a mile from where the Mississippi and Missouri rivers join, and there is potential for rail access," said Brad Horrall, who is co-managing the auction for Schrader.

R.D. Schrader, president of the auction company, said he expects the land to appeal to those seeking cropland as well as those interested in the development potential. "This is highly productive cropland that has been well managed," he said.

The auction will begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 20, at St. Gregory Armenian Community Center, 3501 Century Drive, Granite City, Illinois. Internet bidding will be available for those who make arrangements a week prior to the auction.

Schrader personnel will be available at the farm to accommodate inspections and provide additional information 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, September 23; and 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 5.

Those seeking information may visit www.schraderauction.com or call 800-451-2709.

Schrader Real Estate and Auction Company, based in Columbia City, Indiana, is a leading auctioneer of agricultural land and equipment throughout the United States. The company is a five-time USA Today/National Auctioneers Association Auction of the Year winner.

For more information:

Carl Carter, 205-910-1952

SOURCE Schrader Real Estate and Auction Company

Related Links

http://www.schraderauction.com


Integrated into Fathom's intelliAgent Software Suite, LiveBy Local will be provided to current Fathom agents free of charge. The product also will be available for purchase to existing LiveBy clients, as well as agents and brokerages outside of the Fathom family who want to grow their local market presence.

LiveBy Local incorporates LiveBy's geographical boundaries and millions of community data points into one platform for agents and teams to build robust and meaningful local area content packages for potential home buyers. Acquired by Fathom in April 2021, LiveBy's technology pairs local data with geospatial boundaries to create key insights that help boost website engagement, inform and attract consumers, and nurture agent leads. LiveBy supports local data and unique content in all 50 U.S. States, Canada, Mexico, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands. Current LiveBy customers include, among many others, Corelogic, Realogy, HomeServices of America, HSF Affiliates, and @properties.

"LiveBy has emerged as the leading source for community data and scalable neighborhood content for real estate brokerages, franchise websites and industry portals," said Fathom CEO Joshua Harley. "LiveBy Local builds on that leadership position by providing what we believe is the most powerful hyperlocal insights tool available in our industry today.

"Our quick integration of LiveBy and the launch of this new tool demonstrate the efficiency of our model and our recognition that in order to remain competitive, agents must possess meaningful local knowledge to attract and retain prospective home buyers," said Harley. "With features such as the ability to explore valuable insights on any subdivision, neighborhood, city or county, along with access to neighborhood market reports, the power to instantly create area guides to help illustrate what it would be like to live in a particular community is immeasurable. With downloadable and printable market reports and guides for showing packets and open houses, and the ability to capture leads through sharing custom, digital links with consumers, LiveBy Local puts powerful data and information in the hands of agents to help them close more transactions.

"We believe that in addition to helping Fathom agents grow their businesses, LiveBy Local will become a necessary tool for outside agents and brokerages, providing us with a strong competitive advantage, the ability to attract new agents and, importantly, a new revenue stream," Harley said.

"We are thrilled to bring LiveBy to a significantly greater number of agents through Fathom's launch of LiveBy Local," said LiveBy CEO Cory Scott. "Local discovery is a passion for us, and we strongly believe that we will continue to attract a growing number of agents, as well as other brokerages as customers, empowering them with the hyperlocal tools they need to stay relevant and be more successful."

About LiveBy

LiveBy supports local data and unique content for all 50 U.S. States, Canada, Bahamas and Cayman Islands. Coverage includes access to the largest proprietary library of neighborhood boundaries, along with cities, subdivisions, school districts, zip codes and more. LiveBy technology makes it fast and simple to display hyperlocal content on existing websites and position brands as the go-to source for neighborhood and community information. For more information, visit www.liveby.com.

About Fathom Holdings Inc.

Fathom Holdings Inc. is a national, technology-driven, real estate services platform integrating residential brokerage, mortgage, title, insurance, and SaaS offerings to brokerages and agents by leveraging its proprietary cloud-based software, intelliAgent. The Company's brands include Fathom Realty, Dagley Insurance, Encompass Lending, intelliAgent, Real Results, and Verus Title. For more information, visit www.fathominc.com.

Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking statements," including, but not limited to, the ability of LiveBy Local to provide a strong competitive advantage, attract new agents and a new revenue stream. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including: risks in effectively managing rapid growth in our business; reliance on key personnel; competitive risks; and the other risk factors set forth from time to time in our SEC filings, copies of which are available on the SEC's website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

Investor Relations and Media Contacts:



Roger Pondel/Laurie Berman

PondelWilkinson Inc.

[email protected]

(310) 279-5980

Marco Fregenal

President and CFO

Fathom Holdings Inc.

[email protected]

(888) 455-6040

SOURCE Fathom Realty

Related Links

https://www.fathomrealty.com


FILTEC Demonstrates the Future of Craft Brew Inspection at the Craft Brewers Conference 2021, Booth #824 Tweet this

"For craft brewers who are ready to take their fist steps into automation, we are here to help," states FILTEC Product Manager, Christian Beck. "We work closely with many craft brew labels, all of whom face environmental challenges - such as water usage and finding line employees during COVID  and who want to be stronger competitors on a national and even global scale. Our solutions support scalability, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.

FILTEC is also offering a discount to craft brewers who want to add fill level inspection to their lines, as opposed to manual product weighing, which can be inaccurate and costly. Until September 30, 2021, craft brewers can take 15% off the FILTEC X-Ray Fill Level inspection system which can include the INTELLECT smart inspection platform.

"With FILTEC on their lines, craft brewers can rest assured that a perfect can or bottle of beer reaches their customers," states Beck.

To learn more about FILTEC and their Craft Brew offer, visit: https://info.filtec.com/craft-brewers-conference-2021

SOURCE FILTEC

Related Links

https://www.filtec.com


SHANGHAI, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FinVolution Group ("FinVolution", or the "Company") (NYSE: FINV), a leading fintech platform in China, today announced that it has entered into strategic cooperation agreements with Ocean Engine, and Yillion Bank, one of the first four licensed Internet banks in China, to explore new opportunities in empowering traditional financial institutions' business growth across multiple aspects, including marketing, daily operations, credit risk controls and ecosystem building.

Mr. Alexis Xu, the Chief Financial Officer of FinVolution, commented, "It is our great honor to form this in-depth cooperation with Yillion Bank and Ocean Engine. Leveraging resources and joint strength of the three parties, we are poised to explore more possibilities of futuristic fintech models, driving digital transformation across financial services at a faster pace and achieve win-win outcomes for all three parties in a new digital ecosystem."

Mr. Hui Yu, the General Manager of Yillion Bank, inclusive finance department, commented, "We have already built a solid relationship with FinVolution and this strategic agreement further strengthened our partnership. Building on digitization initiatives supported by FinVolution and Ocean Engine, we will sharpen our capabilities to acquire more customers online, further exploring user habits, content marketing and more user scenarios to deliver superior internet-based financial services."

Mr. Xin Long Chang, the General Manager of Ocean Engine, commented, "We are very delighted to commence this tripartite collaboration to build an ecosystem to the benefits of all three parties. Leveraging Ocean Engine's sales and marketing capabilities, we look forward to working together with FinVolution and Yillion Bank to promote inclusive finance with greater efficiency through digital financial services."

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "target," "confident" and similar statements. Such statements are based upon management's current expectations and current market and operating conditions and relate to events that involve known or unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, all of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any such statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, uncertainties as to the Company's ability to attract and retain borrowers and investors on its marketplace, its ability to increase volume of loans facilitated through the Company's marketplace, its ability to introduce new loan products and platform enhancements, its ability to compete effectively, laws, regulations and governmental policies relating to the online consumer finance industry in China, general economic conditions in China, and the Company's ability to meet the standards necessary to maintain listing of its ADSs on the NYSE, including its ability to cure any non-compliance with the NYSE's continued listing criteria. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties or factors is included in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and FinVolution does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable law.

About FinVolution Group

FinVolution Group is a leading fintech platform in China and internationally connecting underserved borrowers with financial institutions. Established in 2007, the Company is a pioneer in China's online consumer finance industry and has developed innovative technologies and has accumulated in-depth experience in the core areas of credit risk assessment, fraud detection, big data and artificial intelligence. The Company's platform, empowered by proprietary cutting-edge technologies, features a highly automated loan transaction process, which enables a superior user experience. As of June 30, 2021, the Company had over 130.8 million cumulative registered users.

For more information, please visit: http://ir.finvgroup.com.

About Yillion Bank

Yillion Bank is one of the four Internet banks that have been allowed to carry out online deposit and loan business throughout the country, and is also the first private bank in Northeast China. With "digital banking" as its positioning, Yillion Bank has established the industry's advanced distributed technology architecture and intelligent risk control system by relying on big data, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and other scientific and technological means, which can provide customers with safe and convenient financial services.

For more information, please visit: http://www.yillionbank.com

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

FinVolution Group

Head of Investor Relations

Jimmy Tan

Tel: +86 (21) 8030 3200- Ext 8601

E-mail: [email protected]

The Piacente Group, Inc.

Jenny Cai

Tel: +86 (10) 6508-0677

E-mail: [email protected]

SOURCE FinVolution Group
In addition to entering into the earn-in agreement with ALX to earn into the Vixen Properties, First Mining has acquired additional claims covering approximately 6,000 hectares within the Birch-Uchi Greenstone Belt ("New Claims"), including the acquisition of the past-producing, high-grade Sol d'Or mine located adjacent to the Swain Lake Property, on which First Mining has a three-year option agreement with Whitefish Exploration Inc. With the addition of the Vixen Properties and the New Claims, First Mining now controls over 66,000 hectares in the Birch-Uchi Greenstone Belt and is the largest single claim holder in the region.

"First Mining's recent land tenure consolidation in the Birch-Uchi Greenstone Belt is another major development for our Company and the region," stated Dan Wilton, CEO of First Mining. "Since the beginning of the year, First Mining has significantly increased its land package around Springpole and believe the Birch-Uchi is the one of the most under-explored and highly prospective gold belts in Canada, with district-scale potential. The region hosts several past-producing mines including our newly acquired Sol d'Or mine where there has been demonstrated historical, high-grade exploration potential. First Mining intends to undertake a comprehensive regional exploration program over the next twelve months for the first time since our acquisition of Springpole in 2015 and will be incorporating these newly acquired and optioned claims into the program. First Mining remains focused on advancing and permitting our flagship Springpole Gold Project which hosts the largest known gold deposit in the district and will be a critical strategic asset if more gold resources are found in the region."

ALX Transaction

First Mining will have the option to earn an initial 70% interest in the Vixen Properties by making cash payments totaling $550,000, and share payments totaling $400,000, to ALX, and by incurring at least $500,000 worth of expenditures on the Vixen Properties during the first three years of the earn-in term. Upon completing the first stage of the earn-in, First Mining will hold, through Gold Canyon, a 70% interest in the Vixen Properties, and will have an additional period of two years within which to acquire the remaining 30% of the Vixen Properties by paying $500,000 to ALX and issuing $500,000 worth of First Mining shares to ALX. In the event the second stage of the earn-in is not completed, ALX and Gold Canyon will enter into a joint venture agreement with respect to the Vixen Properties.

Birch-Uchi Greenstone Belt

The Birch-Uchi Greenstone Belt is one of several greenstone belts in the Uchi Subprovince of the Western Superior Province of the Canadian Shield. From west to east these are the Rice Lake greenstone belt in Manitoba, and the Red Lake, Birch-Uchi, Meen-Dempster, Pickle Lake, Lake St. Joseph and Miminiska-Fort Hope greenstone belts in Ontario. Gold exploration in the Birch-Uchi greenstone belt started after the discovery of Red Lake in 1925 and was followed by a peak of activities in the late 1920s and 1930s. Gold deposits were discovered and put into production including the Uchi, Bobjo, Bathurst, Argosy, Jackson-Manion, Hudson-Patricia, McIntyre, Sol d'Or and Kostynuk Brothers gold mines. Historical gold production in the Birch-Uchi is estimated at approximately 250,000 ounces ("oz"), with the last documented production in the 1960s. Since the 1960s, exploration in the Birch-Uchi focused on both base metals and precious metals, which led to the development of the South Bay Mine that produced copper, zinc and silver between 1971 and 1981, and there has been increased attention on gold exploration in the area since the 1980s. To date, Springpole is the only gold deposit in the belt with defined Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101").

Vixen Properties

The Vixen Properties consist of three separate claim groups: Vixen North, Vixen South and Vixen West (Figure 1). Historical surface exploration work on the Vixen Properties has been carried out by the Ontario Geological Survey and the Province of Ontario. Recent exploration by ALX in 2019 and 2020 included a prospecting and sampling program focused on two areas at Vixen North: the Vulpin Zone and the Dickenson Zone. Rock samples collected from outcrop and historical trenches at the Dickenson Zone ranged up to 17.7 g/t gold ("Au") and were within a swarm of quartz veins that were traced for over 60 metres at surface. Samples collected by ALX at the Vulpin Zone ranged up to 8.41 g/t Au. In 2020, a high-resolution, helicopter-borne magnetic and VLF-EM survey totalling 476 line-kilometres was also completed to better define a known 3,000 metre-long high magnetic trend and other important structural trends present at Vixen North.

Sol d'Or Mine

The Sol d'Or site is located in the Honeywell Township on the north shore of the southwest arm of Grace Lake and was originally staked in 1927. From 1933 to 1936, the mine produced 258 oz Au and 33 oz silver from 458 tonnes of ore, with a reported average grade of 0.563 opt (17.5 g/t Au). Since the 1960s, further exploration work has been carried out on and around the mine site, including geophysical surveys, mapping, drilling, and sampling programs. More recent exploration programs from 2001 to 2012 by Fronteer Development Group, Red Lake Resources, Big Bear Mining Corp., and eShippers Management Ltd. have been successful in confirming historical anomalous results and identifying areas of new mineralization. In 2004, Fronteer Development drilled three holes for a total of 372 metres into the No. 3 Vein, demonstrating gold grades of up to 5.45 g/t Au. In 2012, prospecting by eShippers Management Ltd. returned 7.5 g/t Au from the Sol d'Or mine dump grab samples and 10.4 g/t Au from the No. 7 Vein.

Qualified Person

Hazel Mullin, P.Geo., Director, Data Management and Technical Services of First Mining, is a "Qualified Person" for the purposes of NI 43-101, and she has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this news release.

About First Mining Gold Corp.

First Mining is a Canadian gold developer focused on the development and permitting of the Springpole Gold Project in northwestern Ontario. Springpole is one of the largest undeveloped gold projects in Canada. The results of a positive Pre-Feasibility Study for the Springpole Gold Project were announced by First Mining in January 2021, and permitting activities are on-going with submission of an Environmental Impact Statement ("EIS") for the project targeted for 2021. The Company also holds a large equity position in Treasury Metals Inc. who are advancing the Goliath Gold Complex toward construction. First Mining's portfolio of gold projects in eastern Canada also includes the Pickle Crow (being advanced in partnership with Auteco Minerals Ltd.), Hope Brook (being advanced in partnership with Big Ridge Gold Corp.), Cameron, Duparquet, Duquesne, and Pitt gold projects.

First Mining was established in 2015 by Mr. Keith Neumeyer, founding President and CEO of First Majestic Silver Corp.

ON BEHALF OF FIRST MINING GOLD CORP.

Daniel W. Wilton

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "intends", "estimates", "envisages", "potential", "possible", "strategy", "goals", "opportunities", "objectives", "targeted", "advancing", "proving" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: (i) the timing of any further news releases from the Company in respect of regional drilling plans for Springpole and the progress of technical and environmental work at Springpole; (ii) the advancement and merits of the Goliath Gold Project; and (iii) the submission of the EIS for the Springpole Gold Project. All forward-looking statements are based on First Mining's or its consultants' current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the respective parties, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Such factors include, without limitation the Company's business, operations and financial condition potentially being materially adversely affected by the outbreak of epidemics, pandemics or other health crises, such as COVID-19, and by reactions by government and private actors to such outbreaks; risks to employee health and safety as a result of the outbreak of epidemics, pandemics or other health crises, such as COVID-19, that may result in a slowdown or temporary suspension of operations at some or all of the Company's mineral properties as well as its head office; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in the currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar); changes in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins and flooding); the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities, indigenous populations and other stakeholders; availability and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; title to properties; and the additional risks described in the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2020 filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com , and in the Company's Annual Report on Form 40-F filed with the SEC on EDGAR.

First Mining cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive. When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions with respect to First Mining, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. First Mining does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by the Company or on our behalf, except as required by law.

SOURCE First Mining Gold Corp.

Related Links

https://firstmininggold.com/


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As the business impact of the COVID-19 spreads, the food allergen testing market is expected to have positive growth. In the short term, the market demand will show superior growth due to the increase in infections and reduced economic activity.

With the continuing spread of the novel coronavirus pandemic, organizations across the globe are gradually flattening their recessionary curve by leveraging technology. Many businesses will go through response, recovery, and renewal phases. Building business resilience and enabling agility will aid organizations to move forward in their journey out of the COVID-19 crisis towards the Next Normal.

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Key Considerations for Market Forecast:

Impact of lockdowns, supply chain disruptions, demand destruction, and change in customer behavior

Optimistic, probable, and pessimistic scenarios for all markets as the impact of pandemic unfolds

Pre- as well as post-COVID-19 market estimates

Quarterly impact analysis and updates on market estimates

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Food Safety Testing Market by Application and Geography - Forecast and Analysis 2020-2024

Food Contaminant Testing Market by Technology, Contaminant, Food type and Geography - Forecast and Analysis

Emerging Opportunities with Key players

3M Co.

The company offers food allergen protein rapid test, allergen protein enzyme test, surface protein test swabs, and many more.

ALS Ltd.

The company offers two types of allergen testing, automated ELISA and PCR allergen testing.

Bio Rad Laboratories Inc.

The company offers PCR kits and testing automation, standard and chromogenic media, and immune sera to help food science laboratories improve food safety and risk management.

Get report snapshot here to get a detailed market share analysis of market participants during COVID-19 lockdown:

https://www.technavio.com/report/food-allergen-testing-market-industry-analysis

Food Allergen Testing Market 2021-2025: Segmentation

Food allergen testing market is segmented as below:

Technology

LC MS Technology



Immunoassay ELISA Technology



PCR Technology

Geography

North America



Europe



Asia



ROW

The food allergen testing market is driven by increasing allergic reactions among individuals. In addition, other factors increasing product launches and rising awareness and globalization of the food market are expected to trigger the food allergen testing market toward witnessing a decelerating CAGR of 6.40% during the forecast period.

Unlock the Food Allergen Testing Market Report Statistics through Our Sample Report- https://www.technavio.com/talk-to-us?report=IRTNTR44436

Market Drivers

Market Challenges

Market Trends

Vendor Landscape

Vendors covered

Vendor classification

Market positioning of vendors

Competitive scenario

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio
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The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Archer Daniels Midland Co., BASF SE, Firmenich SA, Givaudan SA, Kerry Group Plc, Koninklijke DSM NV, McCormick and Company Inc., Sensient Technologies Corp., Symrise AG, and Takasago International Corp. are some of the major market participants. Although the premiumization in the food and beverage industry and new product launches will offer immense growth opportunities, to leverage the current opportunities, market vendors must strengthen their foothold in the fast-growing segments, while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

Food Flavors Market 2021-2025: Segmentation

Food Flavors Market is segmented as below:

Product

Natural Flavors



Artificial Flavors

Geography

North America



Europe



APAC



South America



MEA

To learn more about the global trends impacting the future of market research, download a free sample

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Food Flavors Market 2021-2025: Vendor Analysis and Scope

Some of the major vendors of the food flavors market in the packaged foods & meats industry include Archer Daniels Midland Co., BASF SE, Firmenich SA, Givaudan SA, Kerry Group Plc, Koninklijke DSM NV, Symrise AG, and Takasago International Corp. To help businesses improve their market position, Technavio's report provides a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the market.

The report also covers the following areas:

Food Flavors Market size

Food Flavors Market trends

Food Flavors Market industry analysis

Market trend such as increasing demand for food flavors in processed foods is likely to emerge as one of the primary drivers of the market. However, factors such as stringent food safety regulations and guidelines may threaten the growth of the market.

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Grain Augers Market Reports -The grain augers market has the potential to grow by USD 109.55 million during 2021-2025, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate at a CAGR of 5.18%. Download a free sample report now!

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Food Flavors Market 2021-2025 : Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2021-2025

Detailed information on factors that will assist food flavors market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the food flavors market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the food flavors market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of food flavors market vendors

Table of Contents:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2020

Market outlook: Forecast for 2020 - 2025

Five Forces Analysis

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Product

Market segments

Comparison by Product

Natural flavors - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Artificial flavors - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Market opportunity by Product

Geographic Landscape

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

North America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 Europe - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 APAC - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

South America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 MEA - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Overview

Vendor landscape

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

Archer Daniels Midland Co.

BASF SE

Firmenich SA

Givaudan SA

Kerry Group Plc

Koninklijke DSM NV

McCormick and Company Inc.

Sensient Technologies Corp.

Symrise AG

Takasago International Corp.

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

Technavio's in-depth market research reports now include a thorough analysis of the COVID-19 impact on various markets to help industry leaders navigate their business through the new normal.

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About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contact

Technavio Research

Jesse Maida

Media & Marketing Executive

US: +1 844 364 1100

UK: +44 203 893 3200

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.technavio.com/

SOURCE Technavio

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The market is concentrated, and the degree of concentration will accelerate during the forecast period. CoolWave Processing BV, Diversified Technologies Inc., Elea vertriebs und vermarktungsgesellschaft mbh, EnergyPulse Systems Lda, Food Physics LLC, montena technology sa, Pulsemaster, ScandiNova Systems AB, and Wek-Tec e. K. are some of the major market participants. The increased need for food sterilization and the rise in the use of PEF for fruit and vegetable processing will offer immense growth opportunities. To leverage the current opportunities, market vendors must strengthen their foothold in the fast-growing segments while maintaining their positions in the slow-growing segments.

Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market 2021-2025: Segmentation

Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market is segmented as below:

Application

Liquid Food



Solid Food

Geography

Europe



North America



APAC



South America



MEA

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Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market 2021-2025: Vendor Analysis and Scope

To help businesses improve their market position, the food industry pulsed electric field (PEF) systems market provides a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the market. Some of these vendors include CoolWave Processing BV, Diversified Technologies Inc., Elea vertriebs und vermarktungsgesellschaft mbh, EnergyPulse Systems Lda, Food Physics LLC, montena technology sa, Pulsemaster, ScandiNova Systems AB, and Wek-Tec e. K.

The report also covers the following areas:

Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market size

Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market trends

Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market industry analysis

Market trend such as the introduction of new PEF systems is likely to emerge as one of the primary drivers of the market. However, factors such as the high initial cost for setting up PEF systems may threaten the growth of the market.

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Food Industry Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) Systems Market 2021-2025: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2021-2025

Detailed information on factors that will assist food industry pulsed electric field (PEF) systems market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the food industry pulsed electric field (PEF) systems market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the food industry pulsed electric field (PEF) systems market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of food industry pulsed electric field (PEF) systems market vendors

Table of Contents:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market ecosystem

Value chain analysis

Market Sizing

Market definition

Market segment analysis

Market size 2020

Market outlook: Forecast for 2020 - 2025

Five Forces Analysis

Five forces summary

Bargaining power of buyers

Bargaining power of suppliers

Threat of new entrants

Threat of substitutes

Threat of rivalry

Market condition

Market Segmentation by Application

Market segments

Comparison by Application

Liquid food - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Solid food - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Market opportunity by Application

Customer landscape

Geographic Landscape

Geographic segmentation

Geographic comparison

Europe - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 North America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 APAC - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

South America - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

- Market size and forecast 2020-2025 MEA - Market size and forecast 2020-2025

Key leading countries

Market opportunity by geography

Market drivers

Market challenges

Market trends

Vendor Landscape

Competitive scenario

Vendor landscape

Landscape disruption

Vendor Analysis

Vendors covered

Market positioning of vendors

CoolWave Processing BV

Diversified Technologies Inc.

Elea vertriebs und vermarktungsgesellschaft mbh

EnergyPulse Systems Lda

Food Physics LLC

Montena technology SA

Pulsemaster

ScandiNova Systems AB

Wek-Tec e. K.

Appendix

Scope of the report

Currency conversion rates for US$

Research methodology

List of abbreviations

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OKLAHOMA CITY, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SilverPoint Senior Living is proud to announce they have assumed operations of Fountainbrook Assisted Living, a 74-unit community located in Midwest City, Oklahoma. This will bring a proven management team to oversee operations of Fountainbrook and cultivate a culture where the residents and staff enjoy a positive and purposeful experience.

"As SilverPoint has continued to expand throughout Texas, it made sense to continue our growth to Oklahoma. We are thrilled to be working with the great folks at FountainBrook and look forward to making a difference in the lives of seniors in the Midwest City area for many years to come," says Shawn Corzine, Chief Executive Officer at SilverPoint.

Silverpoint will bring their Engaged Life program to Fountainbrook where the focus is to encourage and assist the residents to engage in ways that impact the lives of others. From connecting with local schools to helping a local charity, making a meaningful impact on the life of someone else is the goal.

Having staff on site and available round the clock, Fountainbrook provides a full range of services and amenities to their residents. Personalized care plans ensure each resident receives the individualized care they need. Dining with three meals a day, housekeeping services and a vibrant activities program are just a few of the services the residents at Fountainbrook enjoy every day.

Fountainbrook is located just northeast of Tinker Air Force Base on the north side of Highway 40, off of 15th Street, and is just minutes away from SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital.

About SilverPoint Senior Living

SilverPoint Senior Living is a Texas senior living management company specializing in operating independent living, assisted living, and memory care communities. Their management services include portfolio management; development and acquisition; accounting and financial; marketing and sales; and IT and digital transformation. SilverPoint is strongly committed to its five core values of family, purpose, fun, integrity. SilverPoint is also a certified 2021 Great Place to Work. For more information about SilverPoint Senior Living, please visit www.silverpointsl.com or call 830-730-4472.

Kelly Schwennesen

SilverPoint Senior Living

[email protected]

SOURCE SilverPoint Senior Living

Related Links

https://silverpointsl.com


FAIRFAX, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Freedom Bank of Virginia (OTCQX: FDVA) announced today that it will be launching a new Business Valuation Loan product to commercial clients in the Washington DC region utilizing BizEquity's state-of-the-art valuation platform. Businesses and entrepreneurs can also now turn to Freedom for a no-cost business valuation that will include industry benchmark KPIs in critical areas of performance which will help maximize growth. Businesses can utilize this information to make informed decisions on strategic alternatives, including expanding into new segments, entertaining new investors or exiting the business to a strategic buyer.

"Freedom Bank is continually looking for innovative and meaningful ways to serve entrepreneurs with consultation and capital. Our collaboration with BizEquity is a new way we can offer our clients the highest level of consultation with industry leading technology. We can now offer businesses access to a private, comprehensive and accurate estimate of their enterprise value through our exclusive partnership with BizEquity and its robust online platform. This will give our clients and prospects a roadmap to help drive growth and unlock the business's potential. Additionally, we are very excited to launch our new Business Valuation Loan based on a business's value, growth and potential identified through the BizEquity valuation," said Joe Thomas, President and CEO, Freedom Bank.

"BizEquity is proud to partner with Freedom Bank. Joe and his team's vision to provide lending solutions to businesses, based on their business value is the future. Freedom Bank's unwavering commitment to the success of entrepreneurs and business owners compliments BizEquity's mission to democratize business valuation knowledge for business owners everywhere. Together our partnership will enable businesses to access loans based on the value of their businessbringing Wall Street to Main Street," Said Michael M. Carter, CEO, BizEquity.

About BizEquity

BizEquity is a leading fintech software company created to democratize business valuation knowledge for every business in the world. BizEquity has created the largest online business valuation cloud-based software product and service and the most business valuation data on businesses in the market today. BizEquity's patented platform is distributed through leading financial services firms such as TD Bank; UBS; PNC; Northwestern Mutual; Equitable; Goldman Sachs, and over 750 other financial services firms and over 4,000 advisors. BizEquity was acquired by ACBJ in 2019 and now is able to provide financial services firms support to better reach business owner clients to help them discover their worth.

More information can be found at www.BizEquity.com.

About Freedom Bank

Freedom Bank (OTCQX: FDVA) is a next-generation community bank, headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, offering commercial banking, personal banking, and mortgage banking solutions using banker expertise and innovative technology to build lead relationships with clients. Focusing on businesses, real estate owners, and professionals, Freedom Bank concentrates on key industry verticals to deliver unique, sector-specific solutions to help clients meet their goals and realize their dreams. Freedom Bank had total assets of $837.07 million on June 30, 2021, and sales office locations in Fairfax, Vienna, Reston, Manassas, and Chantilly, VA. The Freedom Bank Mortgage Division is headquartered in Chantilly, VA and the Freedom Bank Small Business Lending Division is headquartered in Harrison, NY. For information about Freedom Bank, visit our website at www.freedom.bank.

Contact:

Joseph J. Thomas, President & Chief Executive Officer

Phone: 703-667-4161

Email: [email protected]



SOURCE Freedom Bank of Virginia

Related Links

www.freedombankva.com


WALTHAM, Mass., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresenius Medical Care, the world's leading provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases, is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The company, founded in 1996 when Fresenius merged its dialysis business with the U.S.-based dialysis services provider National Medical Care, now has more than 120,000 employees, operates approximately 4,100 dialysis clinics in more than 65 countries and treats about 345,000 patients. Over the past 25 years the number of patients treated in company dialysis clinics has risen more than six-fold. The production of dialysis filters (dialyzers) has increased ten-fold. Revenue is up sixteen-fold since 1996 and net income by more than a factor of 17.

Rice Powell, CEO of Fresenius Medical Care: "Fresenius Medical Care was founded 25 years ago with the aim of continuously improving the quality of life of our patients by offering them high-quality products as well as innovative technologies and treatment concepts. We will continue to pursue these goals in the future. As the global market leader in dialysis therapies and dialysis products, we are taking every opportunity to develop further, from digitization to the development of entirely new treatment options."

The roots of this success story go back to 1960, when Fresenius began importing dialysis machines and dialyzers from various foreign companies and distributing them in Germany, gaining a substantial market share. In 1979 the company launched its own dialysis machine, the A2008, which set a quality standard and became the world's top seller. This role as market leader grew with the introduction of successor models from Fresenius Medical Care. Today, nearly every second dialysis machine sold worldwide is made by Fresenius Medical Care. In the early 1980s the company developed the first polysulfone dialysis filters, opening up a new era in the treatment of kidney disease. Polysulfone dialyzers are particularly effective at cleaning the patient's blood and still set the industry standard to this day. Fresenius Medical Care has, to date, manufactured more than two billion dialyzers.

Success in dialysis products ultimately paved the way for the entry into dialysis services. In 1996, Fresenius acquired National Medical Care and combined it with its own dialysis business, a move that marked the birth of Fresenius Medical Care. That same year, the fledgling company was listed on the Frankfurt and New York exchanges that year. In 1999, Fresenius Medical Care shares gained a listing in Germany's benchmark index, the DAX.

Since its founding, Fresenius Medical Care has been the world's leading provider of products and services for people with renal disease. The company has steadily strengthened this position as it consistently set new milestones: In 1999, the number of dialysis machines made at company's Schweinfurt, Germany, plant reached the 100,000 mark. In 2003, the company set two "firsts" by treating more than 100,000 patients and producing more than 50 million dialyzers that year. Total dialyzers produced reached the 500-million mark in 2007 and rose to one billion by 2013. The year before, dialysis device number 500,000 came off the Fresenius Medical Care assembly line in Schweinfurt.

Fresenius Medical Care is constantly improving dialysis technology and introducing new, innovative treatment concepts. In 2016, it launched the latest generation in hemodialysis machines, the 6008, which optimizes dialysis treatment and delivers it even more economically. In 2019, Fresenius Medical Care launched the 4008A dialysis machine developed specially to meet the needs of developing countries. The device offers Fresenius Medical Care's highest treatment standard while keeping the cost to national health systems as low as possible.

Strong growth at Fresenius Medical Care has time and again been accompanied by large, strategic acquisitions: In 2006, the company acquired Renal Care Group, the third-largest operator of dialysis centers in the United States. That was followed, in 2011, by the purchase of Liberty Dialysis, another major U.S. dialysis center operator. With the acquisition of Euromedic that same year, Fresenius Medical Care significantly expanded its presence in Central and Eastern Europe. In 2019, the company expanded its presence in home dialysis with the acquisition of NxStage, which offered patients even more therapy options. By 2020, 12 percent of Fresenius Medical Care patients received their dialysis treatments at home.

The company expects strong growth will continue in the future. Until 2025 the company expects compounded annual growth rates in the mid-single-digit percentage range for revenue and in the high-single-digit percentage range for net income. Fresenius Medical Care believes that what until now has been very fragmented treatment of chronic kidney disease patients should be much more closely integrated through the entire course of the disease. To accomplish this, the company wants to make more effective use of core competencies in the areas of innovative products, ambulatory facilities operation, standardization of medical procedures and patient coordination.

Fresenius Medical Care is the world's leading provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases of which around 3.7 million patients worldwide regularly undergo dialysis treatment. Through its network of more than 4,100 dialysis clinics, Fresenius Medical Care provides dialysis treatments for approximately 346,000 patients around the globe. Fresenius Medical Care is also the leading provider of dialysis products such as dialysis machines or dialyzers. Along with its core business, the Renal Care Continuum, the company focuses on expanding in complementary areas and in the field of critical care. Fresenius Medical Care is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (FME) and on the New York Stock Exchange (FMS).

For more information visit the Company's website at www.freseniusmedicalcare.com.

Disclaimer:

This release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements due to various factors, including, but not limited to, changes in business, economic and competitive conditions, legal changes, regulatory approvals, impacts related to the COVID-19 pandemic results of clinical studies, foreign exchange rate fluctuations, uncertainties in litigation or investigative proceedings, and the availability of financing. These and other risks and uncertainties are detailed in Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA's reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA does not undertake any responsibility to update the forward-looking statements in this release.

Media Contact

Martin Kunze

T +49 6172 609-2115

[email protected]

Contact for analysts and investors

Dr. Dominik Heger

T +49 6172 609-2601

[email protected]

Fresenius Medical Care North America

Brad Puffer

T 781-699-3331

[email protected]

www.freseniusmedicalcare.com

SOURCE Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.

Related Links

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FRANKLIN, Tenn., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Frontier Service Partners ("Frontier"), a newly launched residential services company is pleased to announce its acquisition of Haley Mechanical, headquartered in Dexter, Michigan. Haley is one of the pre-eminent residential HVAC companies in Michigan servicing the Ann Arbor area. This partnership marks the inaugural acquisition for Frontier, which was founded earlier this year on the philosophy of putting people first, delivering on our promises, and creating lifetime clients. Frontier is backed by Imperial Capital ("Imperial") as part of the firm's Back/Buy/Build investment strategy.

"Frontier is excited to welcome the Haley Mechanical team into the Frontier family," said Dean Fulton, Chief Executive Officer of Frontier. "Henry and Lindsey Haley, Haley Mechanical's owners, have built an exceptional residential HVAC services company with a strong local reputation, and Frontier will work with them to build on that strength and further grow the team and service capability. We intend to invest heavily in Michigan, where Haley Mechanical currently operates, as we build a multi-regional home services company."

Henry Haley will remain the General Manager of Frontier's Haley Mechanical division and a shareholder of Frontier. "We have successfully serviced our customers in the Ann Arbor area for more than two decades," said Henry. "Partnering with Frontier will provide Haley Mechanical with the expertise and capital required to accelerate our growth."

"We see tremendous opportunity to deploy our Back/Buy/Build investment strategy within the residential HVAC, plumbing and electrical services industry and this is just the beginning for Frontier," said Eugene Polevoy, Principal of Imperial Capital, Frontier's capital partner. "We are extremely pleased with the early momentum at Frontier and are thrilled to partner with Henry and Lindsey. Frontier will continue to expand through acquisitions and partnerships while maintaining a focus on best-in-class service. We are excited to provide the resources and expertise to continue the legacy that owners such as Henry and Lindsey have worked so hard to build."

About Frontier Service Partners

Frontier Service Partners, founded on the philosophy of putting people first, delivering on our promises, and creating lifetime clients is backed by Imperial Capital. Frontier seeks to partner with leading regional residential service operators in building a platform which benefits customers, employees and transitioning business owners looking for a partner that will carry on their legacy.

For further information on Frontier Service Partners, visit www.frontierservicepartners.com.

Contact Information

Name: Dean Fulton, Chief Executive Officer

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 615-406-8440

SOURCE Frontier Service Partners

Related Links

https://www.frontierservicepartners.com/


CHERRY HILL, N.J., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Real Good Foods Company , an innovative, high-growth, branded frozen food company producing nutritious frozen foods that are high in protein, low in carbs, and made from real food ingredients, today announced the appointment of disruptive, full service digital marketing agency Power Digital Marketing as its agency of record. Performance-based Power Digital Marketing will be an integral partner in driving further retail expansion and consumer brand awareness for the leading producer of nutritious, frozen foods.

A new addition to Power Digital's growing list of health conscious, consumer brands, Real Good Foods launched in 2016 on a mission to improve human health, making nutritious foods more accessible to everyone. With one in three Americans suffering from the chronic related health conditions such as pre-diabetes or obesity due to poor nutrition, Real Good Foods aims to give people access to nutritious and delicious food options. Now available in more than 15,000 retail locations nationwide, Real Good Foods' rapid growth will continue to accelerate with the help of the nationally recognized, San Diego-based marketing and public relations agency.

Bryan Freeman, executive chairman of Real Good Foods, notes he is confident the new partnership will increase consumer awareness, thus furthering the brand's position among competitors in the healthy frozen food category. "With the team at Power Digital Marketing, who notably acquired Covet PR in 2020, we are excited to continue momentum for Real Good Foods as a brand by collaborating on strategy, partnerships, public relations efforts and more. With the consumer demand growing for foods that are both nutritious and easy to make, we're thrilled to welcome the marketers at Power Digital to the #RealGoodFamily as we look to carry out our mission of making these foods accessible to all."

Real Good Foods is currently expanding its nutrient-dense, innovative foods in Kroger, Walmart, Costco, Target and more. The brand has a variety of better-for-you options for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacking including breakfast sandwiches, stuffed-chicken entrees, Mexican food, Italian Food, entree bowls and more.

For more information and to find a store near you, visit www.realgoodfoods.com and follow on Instagram at @realgoodfoods . For interviews with Bryan Freeman, executive chairman, or Gerard Law, chief executive officer, email [email protected] .

About Real Good Foods Co.: Founded in 2016, Real Good Foods believes there is a better way to enjoy delicious comfort food. Its mission is to make nutritious foodslow in carbs, high in protein, grain free and from real ingredientsmore accessible to everyone, improve human health, and in turn improve the lives of millions of people. Real Good Foods offers delicious and nutritious options across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacking occasions. Available in over 16,000 stores nationwide, and directly from their website at realgoodfoods.com. Learn more about Real Good Foods on Instagram @realgoodfoods, where they have one of the largest social media followings of any brand within the frozen food industry today with over 365,000 followers.

About Power Digital: Power Digital is a leading and award winning data-driven marketing company that is nationally recognized for its ability to combine the best of art and science. As a full-service firm, the company offers best-in-class services across traditional and nontraditional channels, Power Digital is hyper-focused on helping brands scale revenue sustainably and increase profits by using data and analytics and superior talent to guide strategy, ultimately driving irrefutable value for clients. Unique to Power Digital is their proprietary, machine-learning platform SPRnova that can analyze any business's growth opportunities with a corresponding roadmap of how to execute and track progress across every marketing channel. Leveraging their team of the nation's leading consumer strategists, creatives and data scientists, Power Digital provides scalable and tangible marketing solutions for each stage of the funnel and for every milestone of the consumer journey. Embodying a growth performance mindset is at the core of our company culture, giving us a 95% employee retention rate and some of the some of the strongest results in the industry. Exceeding expectations is the benchmark of our work. For more information, please visit powerdigital.com .

Media Contact

Nikole Johnston

[email protected]

SOURCE Real Good Foods Company
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Genapsys, Inc. (Genapsys), a company developing a highly accurate and scalable electronic sequencing platform, today announced the additions of Priya Ray and Peter Swider to the Company's leadership team as well as the launch of the company's new branding and corporate website, www.genapsys.com.

"We are pleased to welcome Priya and Peter to our accomplished and growing leadership team," said Jason Meyers, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Genapsys. "Collectively, Priya and Peter bring extensive regulatory and accounting experience that will fortify our team's position at the forefront of the sequencing sector with best-in-class-practices. Genapsys is growing and expanding the enterprise and our updated branding and website reflect a new level of commitment from the entire Genapsys organization."

Priya Ray joins as Vice President of Quality and Regulatory Affairs, and Peter Swider joins as Vice President of Accounting and Finance.

"Being a part of Genapsys, a company at the cutting edge of technology, innovation, and industry excellence, is incredibly exciting," said Priya Ray. "Genapsys' standard of excellence in both its product and culture is well positioned to lead the industry with a highly accurate semiconductor chip-based electronic sequencing platform. My experience directly complements this talented team and together we will elevate and expedite the Company's vision to enable universal access to genomic sequencing."

Priya has led the Quality and Regulatory departments for many large medical device and biotech companies such as Applied Biosystems (now ThermoFisher Scientific), Philips Medical, Varian Medical, Myriad Genetics as well as established the Quality Management System at various startups. She has 23 years of experience working with FDA and European regulatory bodies and has hosted multiple FDA inspections, CE mark audits and CLIA and CAP inspections. Priya holds a bachelor's degree with honors in Physiology from Presidency College, Calcutta and a Master's in Physiology from Science College, Calcutta University, India. She also holds a Master's in Computer Science from Regis University, Colorado.

Peter brings extensive finance and accounting experience in both emerging growth companies as well as large global organizations. Peter previously worked at ArcherDX, a genomic analysis company, and later Invitae, as Corporate Controller. ArcherDX was acquired by Invitae in October 2020. Prior to ArcherDX, Peter held a diverse range of corporate accounting finance roles with increasing responsibility at HomeAdvisor, Ciber and Renewable Energy Systems. Peter began his career at Deloitte upon completion of his Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois.

About Genapsys, Inc.

Genapsys is a company focused on the advancement of universal access to genomic information by delivering an affordable, scalable, and accurate genomic sequencing ecosystem that empowers both academic and clinical research applications. Its system leverages a proprietary electrical microfluidic sequencing chip with a scalable number of detectors, allowing for a wide range of applications. Genapsys is headquartered in Redwood City, CA.

Genapsys products are provided for Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

For Media Inquiries:

Surekha Karudapuram, VP, Product Management and Marketing [email protected]

For Investor Inquiries:

David Deuchler, CFA

Managing Director |Gilmartin Group

[email protected]

SOURCE Genapsys

Related Links

http://www.Genapsys.com


A targeted strategic approach to Facilities Management can unlock several opportunities for buyers. This report also offers market impact and new opportunities created due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

Information on how to identify strategic and tactical negotiation levels that will help achieve the best prices.

Gain information on relevant pricing levels, detailed explanation on pros and cons of prevalent pricing models.

Methods to help engage with the right suppliers and discover KPI's to evaluate incumbent suppliers.

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Insights into buyer strategies and tactical negotiation levers:

Several strategic and tactical negotiation levers are explained in the report to help buyers achieve the best prices for the Facilities Management market. The report also aids buyers with relevant Facilities Management pricing levels, pros, and cons of prevalent pricing models such as volume-based pricing, spot pricing, and cost-plus pricing and category management strategies and best practices to fulfil their category objectives.

For more insights on buyer strategies and tactical negotiation levers, www.spendedge.com/report/facilities-management-procurement-sourcing-and-procurement-intelligence-report

Key Drivers and Trends Fueling Market Growth:

The pressure from substitutes and a moderate level of threat from new entrants has resulted in the low bargaining power of suppliers.

Price forecasts are beneficial in purchase planning, especially when supplemented by the constant monitoring of price influencing factors. During the forecast period, the market expects a change of 1.5%-3.5%.

Identify favorable opportunities in Facilities Management TCO (total cost of ownership).

Expected changes in price forecast and factors driving the current and future price changes.

Identify pricing models that offer the most rewarding opportunities.

Some of the top Facilities Management suppliers listed in this report:

This Facilities Management procurement intelligence report has enlisted the top suppliers and their cost structures, SLA terms, best selection criteria, and negotiation strategies.

Compass Group Plc

Sodexo SA

CBRE Group Inc

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Table of Content

Executive Summary

Market Insights

Category Pricing Insights

Cost-saving Opportunities

Best Practices

Category Ecosystem

Category Management Strategy

Category Management Enablers

Suppliers Selection

Suppliers under Coverage

US Market Insights

Category scope

Appendix

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Anirban Choudhury

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Ph No: +1 (872) 206-9340

https://www.spendedge.com/contact-us

SOURCE SpendEdge
NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Grouport, an online group therapy service that's making group treatment widely accessible for chronic psychological disorders, today announced a $1.5 million series seed round led by XV Venture Capital, with participation from 380 Cap (a fund started by Drizly co-founder Justin Robinson), and Taub Ventures. Grouport will use the investment to strategically scale its evidence-based and tech-enabled platform, providing a consistent support setting to those with shared experiences. By doing so, Grouport will help more people access best-in-class support and skills development which are needed for therapeutic progress  all at a fraction of the cost of most other options.

"At Grouport, we're building a collaborative approach to mental health care that gives people the ability to confide in others facing similar challenges and helps them get better together," said Grouport founder and CEO Jonathan Spievack. "Many people feel completely alone and can't fathom that there are others like them out there feeling the same way they do. We're here to normalize their experience, destigmatize a lot of what's keeping them stuck, and help them stay motivated to regularly implement difficult behavioral change into their lives."

Founded in 2019, Grouport has seen over 10x growth since launch, and has had thousands of session attendances. Members have expressed a whole host of benefits including reduction in symptoms, better relationships, increased productivity at work, and improved overall quality of life. Through this funding, Grouport will expand its leadership team across key functions including marketing, tech, product, business development, among others, to support its efforts to scale nationwide.

Brian Deutsch, founder and managing director at XV Venture Capital explains, "We are living in a time where the mental health of our population is under constant attack. The pervasiveness of social media and the related self-esteem issues, coupled with the isolation and anxiety induced by the Covid pandemic are deteriorating our mental well-being. Fortunately, our society is becoming more accepting and understanding that mental health is critically important. We believe that Grouport is uniquely positioned to be the go-to digital solution for those with moderate to severe chronic mental illness. XV is thrilled to support Jonathan and Mordechai as they make our world stronger and more resilient."

Lori Gottlieb, Grouport clinical advisor and author of New York Times bestseller "Maybe You Should Talk to Someone" adds, "Grouport provides a much-needed approach to mental health, making group therapy with skilled licensed clinicians accessible and convenient. Tailored to meet the unique needs of today's world, this innovative group-oriented system empowers clients to feel less alone, develop critical relational skills, and gain support and insight they can apply to all areas of their lives."

To learn more about Grouport, visit: GrouportTherapy.com

About Grouport

Established in 2019 and founded by Jonathan Spievack (CEO) and Mordechai Teitz (co-founder and CTO), Grouport is pioneering a virtual group-based treatment model that's tailored to chronic psychological disorders. Through its online therapy groups, patients meet weekly with the same members and therapist for consistent care spanning the full range of mental health challenges. Grouport's mission is to make online group therapy easily accessible at the click of a button, and to provide an affordable care option that doesn't compromise on quality. Utilizing its specialized therapist network, Grouport creates groups structured by diagnosis to give patients a tight knit community that they feel comfortable regularly confiding in.

Learn more at GrouportTherapy.com

About XV Venture Capital

XV Venture Capital is a Chicago based venture capital firm that's sector agnostic and focuses on seed stage investments. The firm was founded in 2016, and typically leads investment rounds in technology companies that are driving transformative change in their industry. XV has a deep background in healthcare and technology and is known to leverage its operational and entrepreneurial expertise to establish high touch partnerships that drive significant value for its portfolio companies. XV's leadership consists of seasoned financial, operational, technical, and marketing executives who have had extensive track records investing in, running, and building successful businesses. XV's portfolio spans consumer and enterprise, and includes investments in companies such as Chefling, Complia, Thyng, STX, Colorcast, and American Paper Bag.

Media Contact:

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Grouport

Related Links

https://grouporttherapy.com


DUBAI, UAE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Gulf Data International (gDi), a leading IT solutions provider and systems integrator in the MENA region and FaceTec, a global leader in 3D face authentication software, signed a collaboration agreement with Digital Dubai to collaborate on Artificial Intelligence applications in biometric face verification technology.

As a government entity leading the city's digital transformation, Digital Dubai has been entrusted with four key tasks - accelerate digital transformation of the city through strategic partnerships with governments and private sector entities, increase the Emirate's digital economy contribution to the city's GDP, build and develop digital competencies of national talent, and, maintain and develop Dubai's digital wealth whilst accelerating Dubai's cybersecurity efforts.

gDi, founded in 1983, is a highly respected technology integrator providing services in the MENA region.

"gDi is proud to have partnered with FaceTec, the global leader in 3D Face Authentication technology," said Omar Atta, CCO of gDi. "FaceTec provides its enhanced security process, which is now becoming a new industry standard in the modern technology sector, to a worldwide list of prestigious clients. Collaborating with FaceTec to bring their solution to this region will finally allow biometric authentication to flourish as it should, ensuring the market will be using the best technologies available to maintain its high-security standards while greatly enhancing the user experience. Digital Dubai is considered a global leader in both technology implementation and citizen satisfaction, and acts as a major pillar in overseeing the constant growth of Dubai. Collaborating with Digital Dubai on such an important solution is truly special as they are one of the globe's spearheads in innovation," continued Atta. "FaceTec's solution will enable some of the great use cases that have been designed to come to life throughout the region, as organizations will finally have the confidence needed in their authentication provider."

To meet the very high standards for this level of user authentication, exceptionally strong and reliable biometric authentication technology is a requirement.

"We are so happy to be working with gDi, such a highly-regarded organization in the MENA region," said Kevin Alan Tussy, CEO of FaceTec. "Digital Dubai requires their solutions to consistently demonstrate exceptional performance and value, and we are honored to have been chosen over dozens of other vendors from around the world to be one of their technology partners for the important, forward-thinking undertaking they have planned for the city"

About Gulf Data International

gDi is a pioneer in digital transformation and automating businesses in the MENA region since its establishment in the UAE in 1983. This IT solutions provider and systems integrator identifies advanced technology opportunities using AI and other emerging technologies for regional organizations in verticals like the public sector, banking, healthcare, and oil & gas, to better their functional capabilities. It delivers solutions in systems integration, enterprise resource planning, corporate performance management, and systems development. It also delivers vertical solutions in transport management, manufacturing, asset management, and waste management.

Having successfully implemented hundreds of projects all over the Middle East, their team of consultants, project managers, and developers are experienced professionals who combine a solid technology foundation with an in-depth understanding of business processes. gDi services are dedicated to 100% customer satisfaction. It does this through a series of full project life-cycle services including project management, planning, analysis, design, construction testing, deployment and post deployment support.

For more information and business inquiries, please visit www.gdi-me.com. For inquiries, please contact gDi at [email protected].

About FaceTec

Founded in 2013, with staff in the United States, Brazil, Portugal, Mexico, and Singapore, FaceTec is the leading provider of 3D Face Verification and Authentication software. FaceTec's patented, industry-leading Certified Liveness Detection, face matching, optical character recognition,and age estimation technology biometrically binds the unique, live, 3D user to their personal account, creating a secure chain of trust for mobile and web applications.

For more information and business inquiries, please visit www.FaceTec.com . For media inquiries, please contact John Wojewidka at [email protected].

About FaceTec 3D Face Authentication

FaceTec's pioneering 3D Face Authentication is fast becoming the global standard in onboarding, KYC, and ongoing authentication, and stops ID fraud and unauthorized access for tens-of-millions of users on six continents for many of the world's leading organizations in IAM-IDV, financial services, mobile payments, border security, connected transportation, blockchain-cryptocurrency, e-voting, and more.

FaceTec's 3D Face Authentication Platform features:

100% software, for all modern smartphones, tablets, and PCs with webcams

World-leading 3D Face Matching rate of 1-in-12.8M FAR at less than 1-percent FRR

Patented UI generates data-rich 3D FaceMaps  from standard 2D cameras

from standard 2D cameras $100,000 Spoof Bounty Program & Levels 1&2 Certified Liveness Detection

Spoof Bounty Program & Levels 1&2 Certified Liveness Detection Unshareable, unphishable 3D FaceMaps ensure trust without creating a honeypot

IDV dashboard with integrated 1-to-N de-duplication & fraudulent user lists

World-leading 1-in-500,000 FAR 3D FaceMap-to-2D-photo-ID matching

Free anonymous age estimation and age checks with every 3D Liveness Check

Free 2D single-frame Liveness Checks for semi-supervised scenarios

Fast, intuitive interface with 98-99% first-time, real-world user success rates

Easy to integrate, customize, deploy, and manage

Developers can access the FaceTec Demo Apps from FaceTec.com for iOS, Android and any PC with a webcam, and FaceTec Developer Accounts are available for free at dev.facetec.com .

About Liveness.com

Created as an educational resource for biometrics users, vendors, analysts, media and regulators, www.Liveness.com provides a comprehensive history of Presentation Attack Detection, Camera Bypasses and Template Tampering, as well as explanations of methods and means for evaluation, certification testing, and bounty programs.

Digital Dubai

Digital Dubai was established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President & Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, in June 2021 to develop and oversee the implementation of policies and strategies that govern all matters related to Dubai's information technology, data, digital transformation, and cyber-security.

Digital Dubai brings together the expertise of four entities  Dubai Electronic Security Center, Dubai Statistics Center, Dubai Data Establishment, Smart Dubai Government Establishment, - to ensure the city collaboratively achieves the vision of the city's leadership to make Dubai a globally leading digital economy.

The entity has been entrusted with four key tasks - accelerate digital transformation of the city through strategic partnerships with governments and private sector entities, increase the Emirate's digital economy contribution to the city's GDP, build and develop digital competencies of national talent, and, maintain and develop Dubai's digital wealth whilst accelerating Dubai's cybersecurity efforts.

SOURCE Gulf Data International
GLEN ALLEN, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company announced today that Gregory H. Trepp, President and Chief Executive Officer; Michelle O. Mosier, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; and R. Scott Tidey, Senior Vice President, Consumer Sales and Marketing, Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc., will participate in the Jefferies 2021 Home Retail Summit to be held virtually on Monday, September 13, 2021.

As part of its participation, the Company will provide investors with its perspective regarding "Evolving Consumer Preferences in Appliances & Electronics" during a group discussion by industry leaders, including Mr. Trepp, that will take place from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. ET. The discussion will be webcast live and will be accessible through the conference and on the Company's website at www.hamiltonbeachbrands.com. The Company will be available to meet with investors during the conference. Interested investors should contact Jefferies.

About Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company

Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company is a holding company for Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc., a leading designer, marketer, and distributor of a wide range of branded small electric household and specialty housewares appliances, as well as commercial products for restaurants, fast food chains, bars, and hotels. The Company's consumer brands include Hamilton Beach, Proctor Silex, Hamilton Beach Professional, Weston, TrueAir and Brightline personal care products. Hamilton Beach licenses the brands for Wolf Gourmet countertop appliances, CHI premium garment care products, and Clorox air purifiers. Hamilton Beach markets the Bartesian premium cocktail delivery system through an exclusive multiyear agreement. Through a partnership with HealthBeacon, Hamilton Beach is the exclusive marketer and distributor of a smart Injection Care Management System in the US and Canada under the brand name Hamilton Beach Health. Commercial brands include Hamilton Beach Commercial and Proctor Silex Commercial. For more information about Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company, visit the Company's website at www.hamiltonbeachbrands.com.

SOURCE Hamilton Beach Brands Holding Company

Related Links

http://www.hamiltonbeach.com


MONTREAL, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Driving Canada's Fintech leadership, Holt Accelerator rebrands to The Holt Xchange to better reflect its mission as a global early stage fintech fund.

The X represents the four-axis of [Founder, Market, Product and Financing] to identify the best investment opportunities.

represents the four-axis of [Founder, Market, Product and Financing] to identify the best investment opportunities. The  represents the delta (change) that Holt Xchange brings to accelerate their portfolio companies' growth expansion.

represents the delta (change) that Holt Xchange brings to accelerate their portfolio companies' growth expansion. The  (triple bar/bond) represents the strength of the bond we have within our team, our Advisor Network, and our portfolio companies, creating equal but differing exchanges of value.

Backed by Holdun, the combination of the (Holt-Dunn families) a 5th generation multi-family office, The Holt Xchange is focused on building off the family legacy of the great Canadian industrialist Sir Herbert Holt.

As Canada's most active seed fintech investor, tracking over 10,000 early-stage fintechs globally  they actively solicit the ones that present a best match with their Advisory network (representing over 500 individuals from financial institutions, venture firms and industry experts). Today they are announcing an exciting 8 new additions, selected from the top 1% globally to their growing portfolio of companies now at 35.

"Dealmaking between our investments and our ecosystem has accelerated every year, in part attributable to the backing of key partners, such as Fairstone Financial Inc, RBC, MNP, BDC, Montreal International & Bain Public," stated founding managing partner Jan Arp.

The final Holt '21 Portfolio Companies additions include:

CityFalcon cityfalcon.com : Democratizing access to personalized financial content, including analytics, and delivered real-time in 50+ languages. Capital Markets

: Democratizing access to personalized financial content, including analytics, and delivered real-time in 50+ languages. DigiPli digipli.com : End-to-end customer onboarding technology bundled with ongoing support from anti-money laundering experts. RegTech

: End-to-end customer onboarding technology bundled with ongoing support from anti-money laundering experts. FirstStep Financial firststepfinancial.ca: Opening the Door to Home Ownership. Digital Lending

Opening the Door to Home Ownership. Payzel payzel.com: Frontier Finance for Pioneer Industries. Digital Banks

Frontier Finance for Pioneer Industries. PeopleHedge peoplehedge.com : Core Integrated Cross Border Payment Solutions back in the hands of Community Banks and Credit Unions. Digital Payments

Core Integrated Cross Border Payment Solutions back in the hands of Community Banks and Credit Unions. Phaze phaze.io : A prepaid payouts API for fintechs. Digital Payments

: A prepaid payouts API for fintechs. REITIUM reitium.com : Real estate marketplace where everyone can be an investor starting with $100 . PropTech

: Real estate marketplace where everyone can be an investor starting with . RequirementONE requirementone.com: Supercharged compliance for power users and their ecosystem. RegTech

If you are interested to learn more about us, or meet our portfolio companies as well as our Advisors, then register to attend our Fintech Show 2021 [remote as well as in-person event]: Fintech Show 2021.

About Holt XChange

The Holt Xchange is a global early stage fintech fund headquartered in Montreal. Supported by the 5th generation multi-family office and strategic limited partners, The Holt Xchange is enabling Canada to take a technological lead in the next generation of financial services, known as Fintech.

Media contact:

Sarah Spagnuolo

514.291.4905

[email protected]

SOURCE The Holt Xchange
LOS ANGELES, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Manhattan's historic Blue Moon Hotel has unveiled one of the most high-tech guest experiences in the industry as it reopens following extensive refurbishment. The beautifully restored tenement-turned-boutique hotel has transformed itself once again by integrating the latest technology from Jurny, Inc., which enables guests to manage their entire stay from their smartphone, including checking in and out with a single click.

Hospitality-Tech Company Jurny Powers Landmark Lower East Side Hotels Revitalization

The charming hotel at 100 Orchard St. has long been a favorite for travelers looking to experience the glamour of old New York on the trendy Lower East Side. Now, it is also impressing guests with features like keyless suite entry and seamless booking at the touch of a smartphone app.



"New York City hotels are experiencing a slower recovery than the rest of the country," said David Phillips, co-founder and president of Jurny. "Downturns and fluctuations are not new to the industry, but the lingering impacts of the pandemic have become increasingly detrimental to many owners. Our technology helps hotel owners thrive even in unfavorable market conditions by reducing overhead and stripping out redundancies."

Phillips continued, "The Blue Moon project was especially important to our team. It not only marked our debut into the world's most competitive market, but we were tasked with bringing the most advanced technology to the property while preserving its history. We are confident the Blue Moon is equipped to thrive for years to come."

In addition to providing its vertically integrated technology to optimize bookings and manage revenue, Jurny also oversaw the interior design refurbishment of the 22-unit hotel, with new furnishings and sensitive integration of smart tech into the historic building.

"Between the high costs of operating a hotel and the ongoing effects of the pandemic, I was out of options," said Randy Settenbrino, owner, artist and developer of the renowned award-winning Blue Moon Hotel. "Jurny has provided the expertise we needed to restore and revitalize the Blue Moon Hotel. Their offerings from design to tech have brought our historic hotel into the future without sacrificing its charm."

In addition to the Blue Moon Hotel, Jurny also entered an agreement to operate 40 units at the Shoreham Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The company now has a presence in major cities across the globe with more than 635 hotels and short-term rental units under management.

About Jurny

Jurny is a hospitality tech company offering technology-based management solutions designed to accommodate the modern traveler's evolving needs and expectations. Jurny connects consumers with high-end branded suites and apartments owned by independent property and hotel owners for short-term stays. From design to implementation, Jurny's turnkey management service enables an industry-first true automated experience from check-in to check-out for both guests and owners, resulting in flawless operations and increased profits. Jurny is pioneering the next generation of tech-first, on-demand hospitality.

For more information, please visit www.jurny.com, and join the conversation on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Angela Petersen

[email protected]

(631) 830-3305

SOURCE Jurny, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.jurny.com


"Human health and the health of our environment are intertwined. At Illumina, we are dedicated to making a positive impact on humanity, through the applications of our breakthrough genomics technologies, and also through how we operate," said Francis deSouza, Chief Executive Officer of Illumina. "With our commitment to responsible and sustainable practices, we aim to help shape a more sustainable and equitable future for all."

Illumina has set science-based emission reduction targets across their entire value chain that are consistent with keeping global warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels. They have also committed to a long-term target of net-zero emissions by 2050. Targets have been submitted for verification with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and include commitment to SBTi's most ambitious guidelines.

Illumina has signed the "Business Ambition for 1.5C," a global coalition set up by the UN Global Compact, the Science Based Targets initiative, and We Mean Business Ambition for 1.5C. Illumina also joins the United Nations "Race to Zero" campaign in the run-up to the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) and underlines Illumina's commitment to leadership in corporate social responsibility. These elevated climate action goals represent an upgrade from previous targets Illumina had modeled using 2C climate scenarios and an associated 30 percent emission reduction effort. In line with the latest research, Illumina has now adjusted their carbon emission reduction targets to the most aggressive climate action goals.

On the path to net zero, Illumina has established milestone targets including a 46 percent reduction of emissions from our direct operations by 2030 and a 46 percent reduction of emissions from our indirect operations with a focus on the value chain elements associated with purchased materials, transportation, investments, business travel, and employee commuting.

Included in Illumina's Climate Action plan is a $20 million philanthropic commitment by 2030 to support initiatives dedicated to sustainability innovation, environmental education, urban tree planting, biodiversity research, sustainable agriculture projects.

"We have integrated our sustainability goals into our giving strategy acknowledging that often the most vulnerable populations in the world are being impacted the most by climate change despite having contributed the least to the climate crisis," said Sharon Vidal, Global Lead of Corporate Social Responsibility. "There is tremendous opportunity for innovation, collaboration, and community engagement to collectively make an impact and protect our communities and the planet."

"Climate change represents a threat to human health, the environment, and the global economy," said Sam Samad, Chief Financial Officer at Illumina. "Setting ambitious emission reduction targets are an important part of our overall business strategy to minimize risk associated with climate change, identify opportunities, build resilience on potential climate impact, and be transparent with all our stakeholders on our progress."

The company's net zero progress will be reported yearly in the annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report and CDP submission.

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as the global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit www.illumina.com and connect with us on Twitter , Facebook , LinkedIn , Instagram , and YouTube .

Investors:

Brian Blanchett

+1.858.291.6421

[email protected]

Media:

Dr. Karen Birmingham

+1.646.355.2111

+44(0) 7500 105665

[email protected]

SOURCE Illumina, Inc.

Related Links

www.illumina.com


Invisible Fence of St. Louis has been an authorized, full-service dealership of genuine Invisible Fence products and services in 1985. With the addition of over ten counties, Invisible Fence of St. Louis will now serve a total of 31,000 satisfied customers.

"We're so excited for Invisible Fence of St. Louis to expand their direct service. The team from the Peoria / Bloomington dealership has been committed to protecting pets since 1993 and team from the Springfield dealerships has been since 1987." Said Ed Hoyt, Director of Invisible Fence.

Acquiring Peoria / Bloomington and Springfield is the company's ninth and tenth acquisitions of the year. The company just recently acquired Invisible Fence of Eastern Michigan and now has over 240 authorized dealers. Invisible Fence has the largest support network for pet containment in the US and Canada.

"Expanding our footprint allows us to extend our customer service hours and offer new and innovative solutions to help customers enjoy their pets even more  all while providing the same high-level of attention customers have come to expect." said Hoyt.

Invisible Fence offers the most premier dog fence on the market including professional installation, Perfect Start Plus Training and exclusive Boundary Plus Technology. Highly recommended by veterinarians, dog trainers, animal behaviorists and other pet experts, Invisible Fence offers pet fences that can be customized for clients' unique needs.

Growing dealerships allows Invisible Fence to continue to support and be involved in their communities. Local animal shelter donations, adoption events and the Project Breathe Program are among some of the ways Invisible Fence of St. Louis will continue to contribute to local pet wellness.

For additional information or questions, customers can call 1-800-578-3647, visit InvisibleFence.com, and follow Invisible Fence of St. Louis on Facebook.

About Invisible Fence Brand

Invisible Fence pioneered the pet containment industry in 1973, making it their mission to provide safe boundaries inside and outside of the home. The Radio Systems Corporation owned company predominantly sells pet containment, avoidance and access solutions across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to offering award-winning products like Boundary Plus Technology, Authorized Dealers provide professional installation, Perfect Start Plus Training and integrated solutions that have protected more than three million pets to date. Invisible Fence also founded the Project Breathe Program in 2006, donating more than 32,000 pet oxygen masks to fire departments and first responders. For more information on Invisible Fence or to find a local dealer, visit InvisibleFence.com or follow the company on Facebook.

Contact: Tricia Everett

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (865) 235-8791

SOURCE Invisible Fence Brand
Invisible Fence of Harrisburg has been an authorized, full-service dealership of genuine Invisible Fence products and services in 2013. With the addition of the Southern Pennsylvania dealership, Invisible Fence of Harrisburg will now serve an additional 3,200 satisfied customers.

"Since 2012, Invisible Fence of Southern Pennsylvania has remained committed to improving the way York, Adams and Franklin county pet owners live with their four-legged family members. This commitment will help us further our mission to keep dogs and cats safe." Said Ed Hoyt, Director of Invisible Fence.

Acquiring Southern Pennsylvania is the company's 12th acquisitions of the year. The company just recently acquired Invisible Fence of Northwest Indiana and now has over 240 authorized dealers. Invisible Fence has the largest support network for pet containment in the US and Canada.

"We're so excited to expand our direct service area. Now, we're able to extend our customer service hours and offer new and innovative solutions while providing the same high-level of attention customers have come to expect." said Hoyt.

Invisible Fence offers the most premier dog fence on the market including professional installation, Perfect Start Plus Training and exclusive Boundary Plus Technology. Highly recommended by veterinarians, dog trainers, animal behaviorists and other pet experts, Invisible Fence offers pet fences that can be customized for clients' unique needs.

Growing dealerships allows Invisible Fence to continue to support and be involved in their communities. Local animal shelter donations, adoption events and the Project Breathe Program are among some of the ways Invisible Fence of the Southwest Suburbs will continue to contribute to local pet wellness.

For additional information or questions, customers can call 1-800-578-3647, visit InvisibleFence.com, and follow Invisible Fence of Harrisburg on Facebook.

About Invisible Fence Brand

Invisible Fence pioneered the pet containment industry in 1973, making it their mission to provide safe boundaries inside and outside of the home. The Radio Systems Corporation owned company predominantly sells pet containment, avoidance and access solutions across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to offering award-winning products like Boundary Plus Technology, Authorized Dealers provide professional installation, Perfect Start Plus Training and integrated solutions that have protected more than three million pets to date. Invisible Fence also founded the Project Breathe Program in 2006, donating more than 32,000 pet oxygen masks to fire departments and first responders. For more information on Invisible Fence or to find a local dealer, visit InvisibleFence.com or follow the company on Facebook.

Contact: Tricia Everett

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (865) 235-8791



SOURCE Invisible Fence Brand

Related Links

http://www.invisiblefence.com


Cold Plastic , which had until now been available to order only from abroad and has already been utilized in a host of mega-projects across Saudi Arabia, is a fast-drying gloss paint, based on the latest technology of road marking paints, Centrecoat Methyl Methacrylate (MMA), and recommended for marking traffic signs and signals on public and private roads as well as parking areas. The product is renowned for its excellent resistance to friction, UV rays, and other environmental stressors.

Jazeera Paints' highly dependable formulation is suitable for both interior and exterior applications on asphalt, concrete, and epoxy surfaces, and is already a top-performing choice for street and building signage. It is also regularly used in buildings like hospitals and factories.

"We're extremely proud to be the first stockist for 'Cold Plastic' in the region," said Hani Saraya, Project Sales Manager at Jazeera Paints. "The demand for a reliable and long-lasting product of this nature is high among both corporate and government clients, and we're thrilled to be the first and only company providing regional fulfilment at an affordable price without compromising on quality."

Mr. Saraya continued, "Jazeera Paints, as a leading company in Saudi Arabia, attends to inventing the best products and construction solutions. As we continuously seek uniqueness and creativity, we, after conducting much research and numerous experiments, are pleased to present Cold Plastic, the top product in street paints with the highest quality."

The long-life Cold Plastic is just the latest offering in the company's well-established range of products. It is available to order from Jazeera Paints' official website at https://jazeerapaints.com.

More about Jazeera Paints

Founded in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 1979, Jazeera Paints is a pioneering paint manufacturer in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and MENA, with an established reputation for manufacturing and exporting high-quality and eco-friendly paints.

Jazeera Paints is the leading company, outside the United States, that manufactures "Green Seal" certified paint products, which meet the Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED) requirements.

Through the Jazeera Paints Academy, Jazeera Paints endeavors to raise the level of quality and progress of the paint industry in the region. In 2012, the academy became the first institution to offer specialized training in paint manufacturing and applications in the GCC countries and MENA region as a whole.

Follow us on https://twitter.com/JPaintsGlobal.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1612089/Jazeera_Paints_Cold_Plastic.jpg

SOURCE Jazeera Paints

Related Links

https://jazeerapaints.com


ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CNBC, First in Business Worldwide, today announced Jim Cramer has signed a multi-platform deal with the network that brings all of his media assets into the CNBC portfolio. In addition to his on-air duties for the wildly popular programs "Mad Money w/Jim Cramer" (M-F, 6PM ET) and "Squawk on the Street" (M-F, 9AM-11AM ET), CNBC will partner with Cramer Digital to create exclusive subscription products and content aimed at the investment community.

For more than 20 years, Jim Cramer, one of the most respected minds on Wall Street, has served as a personal guide through the confusing world of investing on CNBC's Business Day programs. Now, under the terms of this agreement, beginning October 4, Cramer will continue to educate investors by publishing articles and videos each day, sharing his thoughts on the markets and trading for all of CNBC's digital products and services. In addition, building on the company's commitment to its burgeoning subscription business, CNBC will team up with Cramer Digital on an exclusive investor-focused subscription product, CNBC Investor Club with Jim Cramer, which will equip members with Cramer's unparalleled knowledge and analysis of portfolio management and investing and give behind-the-scenes access to Cramer and his team. The subscription product will reunite Cramer with Margaret de Luna, former President and COO of TheStreet, who was recently appointed General Manager and Senior Vice President of CNBC's Direct-to-Consumer business. For more information about the new product, go to: cnbc.com/investorclub.

Additionally, CNBC will create conferences with Cramer on topics such as ESG, that will bring his infectious energy and passion for the stock market to audiences around the world through the company's thriving events business.

"Jim Cramer is truly one of a kind. He has the unique ability to masterfully break down complex topics and make them digestible for everyday investors," said Mark Hoffman, CNBC Chairman. "And now, for the first time, CNBC will be the home for all of Jim's media creating a virtuous cycle for his devoted viewers and loyal members to easily engage with exclusive content across all platforms and serve as a one-stop shop for sponsors and advertisers looking to interact with Jim's comprehensive suite of products on a deeper level."

"The incredible following Jim has built over his career speaks to his brilliant mind and the incredible value he offers his viewers and users," said de Luna. "I am thrilled to work together again to build a new, comprehensive subscription product for every level of investor seeking Jim's advice and insight on stocks, the markets and what makes them move."

In addition to his role at CNBC, Cramer is Founder of TheStreet, a multimedia provider of financial commentary. Prior to his broadcast career, Cramer was a hedge fund manager and founder/owner and senior partner of Cramer Berkowitz. He graduated from Harvard College where he was president and editor-in-chief of the prestigious daily, The Harvard Crimson. After graduation, he became a reporter for the Tallahassee Democrat and later for the Los Angeles Herald Examiner, where he covered stories ranging from homicides to sporting events. He helped Steve Brill launch American Lawyer magazine before attending Harvard Law School and earning a law degree. Upon graduating and passing the New York State Bar Examination and being admitted to the N.Y. State Bar, Cramer joined Goldman Sachs in sales and trading. While at Goldman, Cramer wrote for The New Republic about stock market issues. Since 2002, he has authored seven books including his most recent title Jim Cramer's Get Rich Carefully (2013).

About CNBC:

CNBC is the recognized world leader in business news, providing real-time financial market coverage, business content and general news consumed by more than 547 million people per month across all platforms. The network's 15 live hours a day of news programming in North America (weekdays from 5:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. ET) is produced at CNBC's global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and includes reports from CNBC News bureaus worldwide. CNBC at night features a mix of new reality programming, CNBC's highly successful series produced exclusively for CNBC and a number of distinctive in-house documentaries.

CNBC also offers content through its vast portfolio of digital products such as: CNBC.com, which provides financial market news and information to CNBC's investor audience; CNBC Make It, a digital destination focused on making you smarter about how you earn, save and spend your money; CNBC PRO, a premium service that provides in-depth access to Wall Street; a suite of CNBC mobile apps for iOS and Android devices; Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple Siri voice interfaces; and streaming services including Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Android TV and Samsung Smart TVs. To learn more, visit https://www.cnbc.com/digital-products/ .

Members of the media can receive more information about CNBC and its programming on the NBCUniversal Media Village Web site at http://www.nbcumv.com/programming/cnbc . For more information about NBCUniversal, please visit http://www.NBCUniversal.com .

For more information contact:

Jennifer Dauble

CNBC

t: 201.735.4721

m: 201.615.2787

e: [email protected]

SOURCE CNBC

Related Links

www.cnbc.com


CARMEL, Ind., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- KAR Auction Services, Inc. d/b/a KAR Global (NYSE: KAR), a leading global wholesale used vehicle digital marketplace operator, will host a virtual Analyst Day on Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 11:00 a.m. ET. The event is expected to conclude at 2:00 p.m. ET.

During the event, Chief Executive Officer Peter Kelly, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Eric Loughmiller and other members of management will discuss the current market outlook and provide an in-depth review of KAR Global's strategic direction, operating model, financial performance and long-term roadmap. An interactive Q&A session will follow the presentations.

The event is designed for financial analysts and institutional investors. The live webcast will be available via the investor relations section of karglobal.com and a replay of the webcast and supplemental slide deck will be made available after the event.

KAR Contacts:

Media Inquiries: Analyst Inquiries: Tobin Richer Mike Eliason (317) 665-0366 (317) 249-4559 [email protected] [email protected]

About KAR

KAR Auction Services, Inc. d/b/a KAR Global (NYSE: KAR) provides sellers and buyers across the global wholesale used vehicle industry with innovative, technology-driven remarketing solutions. KAR Global's unique end-to-end platform supports whole car, financing, logistics and other ancillary and related services, including the sale of nearly 3.1 million units valued at over $40 billion through our auctions in 2020. Our integrated physical, online and mobile marketplaces reduce risk, improve transparency and streamline transactions for customers in about 75 countries. Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, KAR Global has employees across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Uruguay, United Kingdom and Europe. For more information and the latest KAR Global news, go to www.karglobal.com and follow us on Twitter @KARspeaks.

SOURCE KAR Auction Services
Innovation, Organic growth, and Acquisition driving substantial top-line growth

TORONTO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Kontrol Technologies Corp. (NEO: KNR) (OTCQB: KNRLF) (FSE: 1K8) ("Kontrol" or the "Company"), a leader in smart building technology, today announced a record $6.5 million in revenue (unaudited) for the one month of August 2021.

"We delivered our highest revenue month in Kontrol's operating history based on strong organic growth and the consolidation of our recent acquisition," said Paul Ghezzi, CEO of Kontrol. "We remain focused on scaling the business across our operating portfolio and growing market share in the global smart buildings industry. Innovation is at the core of our business and the driving force behind the ongoing commercial building modernization cycle which we are uniquely positioned to capitalize on as we seek to create long term value for our shareholders."

Strategic Plan

The Company is executing on its strategic plan to innovate internally, accelerate organic growth through cross-sales opportunities, and make strategic value acquisitions on an opportunistic basis. Of particular emphasis is the continued growth of recurring revenues.

BioCloud continues to be accretive to year-to-date revenues and the Company has recently entered into a partnership with Steelcase (see press release dated August 16, 2021) which is set to launch this month. As a leader in office technology, Steelcase provides an established dealer network that is approximately 40 times the size of Kontrol's current independent distributor network.

New Innovation: Carbon Credit Platform

The Company is accelerating its carbon credit platform innovation in preparation for a launch in the Fall of 2021. Currently, organizations which seek out energy efficiency retrofit rebates from local utility companies will exchange ownership to carbon credits generated for those various rebates. Kontrol is establishing a new platform whereby those carbon credits associated with verifiable and measurable energy efficiency solutions and the associated greenhouse gas emission reduction can be monetized without the requirement for local utility incentives. Customers will be able to participate with Kontrol in the monetization of those carbon credits.



"The majority of large organizations have recognized the importance of improving their corporate sustainability initiatives and the need for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector," continues Paul Ghezzi. "We look forward to adding value and incentivizing sustainable practices by offering a unique enhancement to monetize energy efficiency retrofits into carbon credits. We plan to deliver this through our existing energy retrofit technology solutions and the addition of a unique carbon credit monetization platform."

Quarterly Financials

The Company will report its financial statements for the third quarter ended September 30th, 2021 on November 15th, 2021, and will provide conference call dial-in details in the coming weeks.

About Kontrol BioCloudTM

Kontrol BioCloud is an operating subsidiary of Canadian public company Kontrol Technologies. The BioCloud technology is a real-time analyzer designed to detect airborne viruses and pathogens. BioCloud is an air quality technology and not a medical device. BioCloud has been designed to operate as a safe space technology by sampling the air quality continuously. With a proprietary detection chamber that can be replaced as needed, viruses are detected, and a silent notification system is created. BioCloud can be applied to any space where individuals gather. Additional information about Kontrol BioCloud can be found on its website at www.kontrolbiocloud.com.

Kontrol Technologies Corp.

Kontrol Technologies Corp., a Canadian public company, is a leader in smart buildings and cities through IoT, Cloud and SaaS technology. Kontrol provides a combination of software, hardware, and service solutions to its customers to improve energy management, air quality and continuous emission monitoring.

Additional information about Kontrol Technologies Corp. can be found on its website at www.kontrolcorp.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Neither IIROC nor any stock exchange or other securities regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements contained herein that are not clearly historical in nature may constitute forward-looking information. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by words or phrases such as "may", "will", "expect", "likely", "should", "would", "plan", "anticipate", "intend", "potential", "proposed", "estimate", "believe" or the negative of these terms, or other similar words, expressions, and grammatical variations thereof, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" happen, or by discussions of strategy.

Where Kontrol expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief is based on assumptions made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. Such assumptions include, without limitation, that sufficient capital will be available to the Company and that technology will be as effective as anticipated.

However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties, and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected, or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, that sufficient capital and financing cannot be obtained on reasonable terms, or at all; that those technologies will not prove as effective as expected; those customers and potential customers will not be as accepting of the Company's product and service offering as expected; and government and regulatory factors impacting the energy conservation industry. Kontrol BioCloud is an air quality technology and not a medical device. The Company is not making any express or implied claims that its product has the ability to eliminate, cure or contain the COVID-19 (or SARS-2 Coronavirus).

Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as at the date hereof and are based on the beliefs, estimates, expectations, and opinions of management on such date. Kontrol does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise any such forward-looking statements or any forward-looking statements contained in any other documents whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking information, except as required under applicable securities law. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties, and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information.

SOURCE Kontrol Technologies Corp.

Related Links

https://kontrolcorp.com/


WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Guidehouse, a leading global provider of consulting services to public sector and commercial clients, today released a new report detailing the critical role multinational corporations must play as the world moves toward a carbon-free future.

While the call to decarbonize is clear, large corporations often face a web of overlapping challenges when getting started. The report, Navigating the Decarbonization Journey, explores these challenges and offers success strategies for corporations looking to transform their operations as quickly and as profitably as possible.

"Decarbonization is an economic imperative for multinational corporations. Investors expect it, regulators require it, and customers demand it," says Britt Harter, Guidehouse's sustainability lead and partner in the firm's Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure (ES&I) segment. "It is clear that senior business leaders cannot afford inaction, but as corporations dive into their sustainability pursuits, often several key obstacles emerge that threaten to delay or derail their progress."

According to the Guidehouse report, these barriers include a lack of subject matter expertise and technical proficiency, challenges in shifting to circular business models, disparate data sets, supply chain complications, high capital requirements, and an urgent need to align with evolving business principles, including agility, circularity, connectedness, transparency, operational efficiency, resilience, and social equity.

Despite the challenges, the need for global emissions mitigation and adaptation has become increasingly concrete. According to the report, in 2019, the world's 215 biggest companies reported $1 trillion in climate-related risk in the years ahead. Record-breaking natural disasters in 2020, including historic wildfires, floods in China, and more North Atlantic hurricanes than ever before, contributed to $210 billion in losses worldwide. In addition, a 2021 Dutch court ruling requiring Royal Dutch Shell to reduce emissions 45% by 2030 confirmed that climate-related risks can take legal forms as well.

"The knowledge that decarbonization is inevitable is separate from a clear understanding of the discrete steps necessary to shift a complex, multinational organization into a new paradigm," says Jan-Willem Bode, leader of Guidehouse's Investors & Large Corporations practice. "The decarbonization of the business world is at once a collective journey undertaken as a corporate community and an often lonely and puzzling path for individual companies. The more connected and transparent the global business environment becomes, the more agile, efficient, circular, resilient, and equitable companies across all industries can be."

For more information, including case studies from multinational corporations that have tackled their sustainability challenges, download Navigating the Decarbonization Journey: Success Strategies for Multinational Corporations Transitioning to a Carbon-Free Future.

About Guidehouse's Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure Segment

With more than 700 consultants, Guidehouse's global Energy, Sustainability, and Infrastructure segment is the strongest in the industry. We are the go-to partner for leaders creating sustainable, resilient communities and infrastructure, serving as trusted advisors to utilities and energy companies, large corporations, investors, NGOs, and the public sector. We've solved big challenges with the world's 60 largest electric, water, and gas utilities; the 20 largest independent power generators; five of the 10 largest oil & gas majors; the 20 largest gas distribution and pipeline companies; European governments; and the US federal government's civilian agencies involved in the country's land, resources, and infrastructure. We combine our passion, expertise, and industry relationships to forge a resilient path toward sustainability for our clients. We turn vision into action by leading and de-risking the execution of big ideas and driving outcomes for our clients that enable them to reach their ambitions through transformation. For more information, please visit www.guidehouse.com/esi.

About Guidehouse

Guidehouse is a leading global provider of consulting services to the public sector and commercial markets, with broad capabilities in management, technology, and risk consulting. We help clients address their complex challenges and navigate significant regulatory pressures focusing on transformational change, business resiliency, and technology-driven innovation. Across a range of advisory, consulting, outsourcing, and digital services, we create scalable, innovative solutions that prepare our clients for future growth and success. The company has more than 10,000 professionals in over 50 locations globally. Guidehouse is a Veritas Capital portfolio company, led by seasoned professionals with proven and diverse expertise in traditional and emerging technologies, markets, and agenda-setting issues driving national and global economies. For more information, please visit www.guidehouse.com.

For more information, contact:

Lindsay Funicello-Paul

Guidehouse

781.270.8456

[email protected]

SOURCE Guidehouse
SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Philanthropist, businesswoman and arts advocate Sara Miller McCune, co-founder and executive chair of SAGE Publishing, brings together an extraordinary production of the Tony Award-winning musical KISMET with The Santa Barbara Symphony and State Street Ballet, all under the direction of New York's acclaimed Lonny Price. Price is renowned for Broadway productions of Sunset Boulevard, Sweeney Todd, Company, and Sondheim! The Birthday Concert. The show is executive produced by two-time Tony Award-winning theatre producer Ken Davenport, and regionally produced by Miller McCune.

Sara Miller McCune Presents The Broadway Musical KISMET Featuring State Street Ballet and The Santa Barbara Symphony

KISMET's unique, one weekend only run, comes to The Granada Theatre October 23-24, 2021 for three performances only.

Sara Miller McCune, Producer shares, "I fell in love with live theater as a teenager growing up in NYC and remember seeing the original production of KISMET on Broadway, and then, many years later, a wonderful revival at Lincoln Center. When I thought for the first time about what I wanted to do for my 80th birthday, my immediate wish was to bring KISMET to Santa Barbara to share the fabulous music and love stories with friends, colleagues and the region. There was no other production I felt would be as fabulous and yet less well known out here. I was confident that Ken Davenport was the one who could help me bring this dream to fruition. The theater and the arts have enriched my life so much and I can't think of a better gift for the Santa Barbara region."

The production boasts script and choreography reimagined for a contemporary audience while remaining true to the classic story, exotic setting, humor, and music audiences have loved for decades. Utilizing cultural consultant Naila Al-Atrash (NYU), accurate and appropriate recreations of the Middle Eastern inspired world was ensured. The original score from Alexander Borodin is under the direction of Nir Kabaretti and The Santa Barbara Symphony, with brand new choreography from State Street Ballet's co-artistic director, William Soleau.

Director, Lonny Price shares, "KISMET boasts one of the most magnificent scores ever heard on a Broadway stage. Our dream was to have a production cast with as many MENASA (Middle Eastern, North Africa, South Asian) performers as we could find to add a genuine authenticity to the show and honor the magnificent traditions and cultures that this musical reflects. I am so happy to say, I think this may be the most authentic cast to play this show, ever!"

William Soleau, Choreographer/Co-Artistic Director, State Street Ballet adds, "Times have changed since the 50's and Lonny Price wanted a brand new, top to bottom, original interpretation of this musical. We are using full blown dance numbers to move the narrative forward and it is a dream to be able to revive this classic, Tony Award-winning show."

Nir Kabaretti, Music and Artistic Director, Santa Barbara Symphony shares, "We chose this collaboration to open our season because it exemplifies the diversity and breadth of symphonic music. Derived from the great music of Russian classical composer Alexander Borodin, KISMET provides one of the most symphonic scores of Broadway musicals. The rich and energetic music combines lyrical moments with exotic themes and Jazz elements, all brilliantly and colorfully orchestrated."

Ken Davenport, Executive Producers says, "It is an honor to assist Ms. McCune in bringing her vision to life and to help with her mission of supporting the incredible arts community of Santa Barbara and artists everywhere."

KISMET is a three-time Tony Award-winner (including Best Musical). St in and around ancient Baghdad, a charming opportunist weaves his way in and out of conflict in true musical comedy fashion. Associate Director - Matt Cowart, Set Design - Jim Noone, Costume Design - Tracy Christensen, Lighting Design - Ken Billington, Sound Design - Kai Harada, Wigs, Hair & Makeup - J. Jared Janas.

Link to hi-res photos/headshots here: google.com/drive/KISMET

SAGE is a global academic publisher of books, journals, and a growing suite of library products and services.

State Street Ballet is a professional dance company that combines classical traditions with sophisticated styles, inspiring diverse international audiences through performances, collaborations, and unique education and outreach programs. statestreetballet.com

Santa Barbara Symphony - A professional orchestra founded in 1953, under the artistic direction of Maestro Nir Kabaretti since 2006, the Santa Barbara Symphony is consistently lauded for its innovation and artistic excellence and is recognized as one of the region's premier cultural institutions. As the only music education program tied to a professional Symphony orchestra in the region, its award-winning programs serve more than 10,000 students throughout Santa Barbara County each year. TheSymphony.org

The Granada Theatre is a local landmark for almost a century and is the central coast's premier performing arts venue. Located in the heart of Downtown Santa Barbara, it is home to eight resident companies and an ideal venue for regional and national touring productions. Featuring a new custom sound system and an all-digital, 4K HD resolution cinema system in addition to outstanding natural acoustics, The Granada Theatre offers a state-of-the-art, world-class production experience with every performance. Ticket info: www.granadasb.org

Media Contact:

Andrea McKinnon

(818) 415- 9442

[email protected]

SOURCE SAGE Publishing
Nominees can be any educators who have demonstrated the following:

Used ALEKS to reshape the way they interact with students in order to drive more effective teaching and learning, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic

Measurably improved outcomes for students using a combination of ALEKS and other teaching techniques

Helped increase STEM success rates for all students

Gone above and beyond to help unlock the full potential of learners at their schools using ALEKS

Implemented an innovative and unique teaching style using ALEKS

The winning educators will each receive a $1,000 donation from McGraw Hill to an education-focused non-profit or charity of their choice, as well as a $250 gift card and a collection of McGraw Hill Professional books. Winners will be announced in January 2022.

Last year's winners were:

Robert Duncan , Mountain Ridge High School, Frostburg, MD (K-12)

, Mountain Ridge High School, (K-12) Meghan Slotman , Allendale Middle School , Allendale, MI (K-12)

, , (K-12) Daniel Collins , Texas A&M University, College Station , TX (Higher Education)

, , TX (Higher Education) Morteza Barshooi, Central Piedmont Community College , Charlotte, NC (Higher Education)

To learn more about them, read our press release.

"For over two decades, we have been inspired by the thousands of innovative educators who are integrating ALEKS into their classrooms to improve student outcomes," said Simon Allen, McGraw Hill CEO. "It's been an honor for the last two years to recognize these incredible educators, who we know are just a few of the countless who deserve our praise. We're excited to kick off the third year of the awards."

For more than 20 years, McGraw Hill ALEKS has supported math and chemistry educators to quickly and accurately zero in on exactly which topics their students understand and which topics they need help with, empowering teachers to deliver the most effective and personalized instruction possible. Each student begins a new course with a unique set of knowledge and prerequisite gaps to fill. By determining the student's baseline of knowledge, ALEKS creates an individual and dynamic path to success. To date, ALEKS has helped more than 20 million students at thousands of K-12 schools, colleges and universities throughout the world.

McGraw Hill

McGraw Hill is a learning science company that delivers personalized learning experiences that drive results for students, parents, educators and professionals. We focus on educational equity, affordability and learning success to help learners build better lives. Headquartered in New York City, McGraw Hill has offices across North America, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East and South America, and makes its learning solutions for PreK-12, higher education, professionals and others available in more than 80 languages. Visit us at mheducation.com or find us on Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn or Twitter .

Contact:

Tyler Reed

McGraw Hill

(914) 512-4853

[email protected]

SOURCE McGraw Hill
As the official meeting of the Psychedelic Medicine Association, this conference will connect mental health professionals with promising research and breakthrough treatment therapies from the emerging field.

VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Mind Cure Health Inc. (CSE: MCUR) (OTCQB: MCURF) (FRA: 6MH) ("MINDCURE" or the "Company"), a leader in advanced proprietary technology and research in psychedelics, is pleased to announce its presence at the 2021 SANA Symposium ("SANA") as a Platinum Sponsor and host of the Innovation Theater.

MINDCURE will be engaging with clinicians around the world who have an interest in learning more about psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and specifically in adopting novel protocols and practice standards around psychedelics. The timing of this conference coincides with the recent release of iSTRYM, the Company's digital therapeutics (DTx) platform for psychedelics, into partner clinics across North America.

"We could not ask for a better time or a better forum to share our company's mission, and specifically our developments around iSTRYM, with an engaged and educated audience with a particular interest in psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy," said Kelsey Ramsden, President & CEO, MINDCURE.

Joining Kelsey Ramsden at the SANA Symposium's Innovation Theater from MINDCURE this year will be Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joel Raskin, Senior Translational and Psychometric Architect Dr. Ty Tashiro, and Advisors Dr. John Brownstein and Dr. Ken Weingardt.

With psychedelics now making waves in mainstream medicine, the SANA Symposium will unite globally-renowned experts across three key practice fields  psychiatry, psychotherapy, and addiction treatment to provide a multi-perspective view on the application and approaches of psychedelic therapies. The Symposium will highlight promising results in using psychedelic-assisted therapy to treat mental health disorders including major depression, anxiety, and PTSD and will feature groundbreaking research and cutting-edge data in psychedelics.

SANA is attended by approximately 2000 psychiatrists, psychotherapists, and addiction specialists and is accredited for various types of health and allied healthcare professionals. This year's Symposium will be conducted virtually on September 17-19, 2021. For more on the 2021 SANA Symposium, please visit www.sanasymposium.com.

About Mind Cure Health Inc.

MINDCURE is a life sciences company focused on innovating and commercializing new ways to promote healing and improve mental health. The company is developing digital therapeutics technology and researching psychedelic compounds to support access to safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies globally. Learn more at mindcure.com, and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Kelsey Ramsden, President & CEO

Phone: 1-888-593-8995

Forward-Looking Information

Forward-looking information is based on a number of key expectations and assumptions made by management of MINDCURE, including, without limitation: the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the Canadian economy and MINDCURE's business, and the extent and duration of such impact; no change to laws or regulations that negatively affect MINDCURE's business; there will be a demand for MINDCURE's products in the future; no unanticipated expenses or costs arise; MINDCURE will be able to continue to identify products that make them ideal candidates for providing solutions for treating mental health; that iSTRYM will be developed, optimized and operate as contemplated within the psychedelics industry; that the Company will be effective in obtaining the patents applied for synthesizing ibogaine, or synthesizing ibogaine, or developing synthesized ibogaine for research, medical or commercial use; that MINDCURE will advance wellness worldwide; that iSTRYM will be brought to commercial deployment in the near term or otherwise or that it will reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, or support transformation and healing, or that the deployment may not occur at the scale or within the time frame contemplated.

Although MINDCURE has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information presented, there may be other factors that cause results, performance or achievements to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements as no forward-looking information can be guaranteed.

Except as required by applicable securities laws, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and MINDCURE does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

SOURCE Mind Cure Health Inc.
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Chronolife, a MedTech company and service operator, today announced a strategic multi-year partnership with Mission1st Solutions, LLC, the leading government health IT provider that has been serving the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Health Agency (DHA) on a global basis since 2016. The two companies will collaborate in developing and deploying a range of smart wearable-based health tech solutions purpose-built for the specific needs of U.S. army soldiers, military personnel, and veterans.

Chronolife has developed a CE and FCC approved monitoring device, based on a connected wearable t-shirt that is capable of continuously tracking wearers' health status for a comprehensive set of physiological parameters. Mission 1st chose to partner with Chronolife because its connected t-shirt is machine-washable and worn just like any other comfortable undergarment, allowing continuous and reliable remote monitoring of soldiers without being intrusive to their daily rigorous activities, from intense training to actual combat operations. Offered as part of an end-to-end solution offering, Chronolife is able to meet the strictest, military-grade requirements in the design and production of these smart t-shirts catered to the specific needs of different military units and departments.

Initially under this partnership, Chronolife and Mission1st will co-develop custom solutions that tackle two key challenges facing the military:

The Effects of Stress on Job Functioning of Military Men and Women

Separated from their families while working in hazardous environments with extraordinary physical demands, "enlisted military" is ranked as the world's most stressful job field . Unchecked stress can often lead to potentially major health risks that can compromise not just soldiers' health status, but also mission-critical operations. As part of a dedicated risk prevention and reduction program, Chronolife's smart wearable t-shirt will continuously monitor soldiers' stress related physiological signals, such as heart rate and respiratory rate, so that those with unusually high stress levels can be proactively flagged and removed from the combat zone.

Support Wounded Soldiers and Veterans Who Suffer from Chronic PTSD

Among veterans who served in active combat, 17% reported symptoms of PTSD . For this partnership, Chronolife and Mission1st will work closely with the DHA in the healing and treatment of wounded soldiers and veterans, as PTSD is often associated with medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, asthma, chronic pain, and diabetes. Chronolife's smart wearable t-shirt allows military medical professionals to monitor soldiers' health status whether they're at the hospital, in the field, or at home, ensuring the continuum of care and that health deterioration events are detected early.

"Mission 1st is thrilled to have Chronolife as a partner. The future of healthcare is remote monitoring capability outside of medical facilities, wearables and early detection, which is Chronolife's expertise. The Chronolife technology will allow the defense health agency and the other government healthcare interests, to provide remote monitoring to anyone requiring it. Chronolife's cutting edge technology and nimble adaptability creates a unique opportunity to change the way a person's health is monitored and treated."

"We're excited to partner with government HIT leader Mission1st in providing the highest level of tech-enabled care for U.S. soldiers, both on and off the battlefield, both mentally and physically," said Laurent Vandebrouck, CEO of Chronolife. "It's an exciting use case of our smart textile reference design offering and reinforces our mission in developing truly personalized health monitoring solutions that blend seamlessly into users' flow of work and life."

About Chronolife

Chronolife offers connected medical devices to optimize remote patient monitoring and diagnosis. The company also designs and develops custom digital connected solutions tailored to our partner's specific needs. Chronolife directly supplies medical and ambulatory healthcare institutions, and partners with experts in the digitalization of the healthcare pathway, in France and internationally. Founded in 2015 and based in Paris (France), with a presence in San Diego (USA), Chronolife was co-founded by iBionext, a unique ecosystem and investment fund dedicated to the creation, development and financing of innovative start-ups in the field of health technologies, and majority shareholder of Chronolife since its creation. For more information: https://www.chronolife.net/

About Mission First

Mission First Solutions, LLC, a premier Value-Added Reseller based in Triangle, VA to the Department of Defense (DoD) with a focus in the Defense Health Agency (DHA) a division of the DoD. As a Small Minority Owned Business, we deliver exclusive sales opportunity guidance and government navigation with insight to the information technology and government healthcare roadmap for strategic enterprise opportunities. Mission First Solutions, LLC provides access to multiple divisions within the federal government providing our clients, both small and large, high-level opportunities. Mission First Solutions, LLC offers a broad range of customer engagement, comprehensive IT services, hardware, software, and staff augmentation. Mission First Solutions, LLC's staff has decades of experience prime contractor, conducting procurements, staff augmentation, and leading teams to not only meet but exceed our customers' expectations. Mission First Solutions, LLC is proud to have a diverse team of IT specialists that hold certifications from the industry's leading manufacturers and organizations. The technical engineers and service professionals at Mission First Solutions, LLC prides itself on having an agile and highly responsive business network to support the most demanding project requirements.

CONTACTS

Chronolife Press relations Chronolife Soizic Fleury  Marketing Director France: Annie-Florence Loyer  NewCap [email protected], [email protected] +33 (0)6 88.20.35.59

USA: Ran Xu  Rosebud, [email protected], 213-309-2373

Mission First Solutions, LLC

Haider Jebur, President & CEO

[email protected]

SOURCE Chronolife
NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Reports and Data has published its latest report titled "Monochloroacetic Acid Market Size, Share & Analysis, By Process Type (Hydrolysis, Chlorination), By Product Type (Dry Powder, Liquid, Pellets, Others), By Application (Cellulosics, Agrochemicals, Surfactants, Thioglycolic Acid), And By Region, Forecast To 2028."

Monocholoroacetic acid is a critical intermediate in chemical industry owing to its extensive use in numerous organic synthesis processes due to its high reactivity. Monocholoroacetic acid is majorly used in manufacturing of Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and over 30% of the monocholoroacetic acid produced globally is used in the production of CMC. Monochloroacetic acid is also widely used in the agriculture industry as an intermediate in the production of agrochemicals and plant products. Monocholoroacetic acid is also a crucial intermediate in cosmetic and personal hygiene industry and is widely used in the production of betaines that are used in hair shampoos. Increasing demand for monochloroacetic acid from various end-use industries such as chemicals, agriculture, and pharmaceutical, among others, is a key factor expected to drive market revenue growth over the forecast period.

Monocholoracetic acid is also extensively used in the manufacturing of important organic chemicals and pharmaceuticals such as ibuprofen, glycine, EDTA, and as raw material for various other products. Increasing demand for home cleaning products, development of eco-friendly chemicals, and increasing use of carboxymethylcellulose in the food and beverages industry for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, powdered drinks, and ice cream, among others, are some other key factors contributing to revenue growth of the market.

Download Report Sample PDF - https://www.reportsanddata.com/sample-enquiry-form/2003

Monochloroacetic acid is acidic in nature and can cause skin irritation upon direct contact among some individuals. In addition, negative effects of monochloroacetic acid on the environment and risks to humans are some key factors that can restrain market revenue growth to a certain extent over the forecast period. However, rapid advancements in manufacturing processes and improved safety of monocholoroacetic acid are expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for players in the market going ahead.

COVID-19 Impact Analysis

Social distancing and restrictions severely disrupted businesses and operations

Lockdowns caused disruptions in transportation and logistics

Impacted manufacturing activities and mining operations globally

Took a toll on economy of various countries

Caused sudden and drastic downturn in economic activity

Disrupted agriculture, fisheries, dairy, and other sectors

Caused loss of employment and financial crisis

Supply impacts were further compounded owing to reduced disposable income

Emergence of variants continue to cause concerns and impact normal routines

To identify the key trends in the industry, research study at https://www.reportsanddata.com/report-detail/monochloroacetic-acid-market

Hydrolysis segment to dominate other process type segments:

Hydrolysis segment is expected to register a robust revenue CAGR over the forecast period, attributed to increasing use of hydrolysis process to produce monocholoroacetic acid. Hydrolysis process produces a highly pure product and this has further increased use of hydrolysis in production of monochloroacetic acid.

Dry Powder segment to register significant revenue growth:

Dry powder segment is expected to account for largest revenue share in the global market, attributed to increasing use of dry powder in various manufacturing processes such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, and other industrial applications, among others.

Surfactants segment to register steady revenue CAGR:

Monocholoroacetic acid is widely used in the manufacturing of surfactants such as mild betaine amphoteric surfactants. Increasing demand for mild and high-foaming surfactants from various end-use industries such as textiles, healthcare, and food & beverage, among others have further contributed to rising use of monochloroacetic acid, in turn, driving revenue growth of this segment.

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North America accounts for a significantly large revenue share:

North America is expected to account for a significantly large revenue share over the forecast period, attributed to increasing demand for monochloroacetic acid from various end-use industries such as agriculture, medical and pharmaceuticals, and chemical for manufacturing agrochemicals, ibuprofen, and vitamins, and as an ingredient in topical creams. In addition, presence of key manufacturers in the region is also a key factor contributing to revenue growth of the market.

Asia Pacific to register significant revenue growth:

Asia Pacific is expected to register significantly rapid revenue growth over the forecast period owing to increasing demand for and use of monochloroacetic acid for cellulosis, agrochemicals, high-foaming surfactants, and personal care products, among others. In addition, rapid progress of the chemical and materials industry and rising demand for monocholoracetic acid from other end-use industries have contributed significantly to revenue growth of the market in the region. Increasing advancements and developments in the textile industry in countries in Asia Pacific such as Indonesia, India, and China, among others, is further boosting demand for monochloroacetic acid and is expected to fuel revenue growth of the market in the region.

Major Companies in the Market:

AkzoNobel N.V.

CABB GmbH

Daicel Corporation

Denak Co. Ltd.

The Dow Chemical Company

PCC SE

Niacet Corporation

Xuchang Dongfang Chemical Co. Ltd.

Shandong Minji Chemical Co. Ltd.

Shiv Chem Industries

Brows Upcoming Research by Reports and Data at https://www.reportsanddata.com/upcoming-reports

Market Segmentation:

For the purpose of this report, Reports and Data has segmented into the global monochloroacetic acid market on the basis of process type, product type, applications, and region:

Process Type Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Billion; 2018-2028)

Chlorination

Hydrolysis

Product Type Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Billion; 2018-2028)

Dry Powder

Liquid

Pellets

Others

Applications Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Billion; 2018-2028)

Cellulosics

Agrochemicals

Surfactants

Thioglycolic Acid

Others

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Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Billion; 2018-2028)

North America

U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

Germany



U.K.



France



Italy



BENELUX



Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China



India



Japan



South Korea



Rest of APAC

Latin America

Brazil



Rest of LATAM

Middle East & Africa

& Saudi Arabia



U.A.E.



South Africa



Rest of MEA

Ask for Customize Research Report @ https://www.reportsanddata.com/request-customization-form/2003

Some points on how the report benefits stakeholders:

The reports include historical (20182020) and forecast (20212028) data points, revenues, and CAGR in table, figure, and chart formats, with detailed and qualitative, supporting written information for each.

Revenue break-up is provided for each segment in these formats for global, regional, and for each country in the respective region for each year between 2018 and 2028.

The report contains insights regarding growth drivers, restraints, opportunities, trends, company profiles, strategic developments, expansion details, product launches, and various other aspects related to the market.

The report contains data and information on customers, competitors, vendors/distributors, and other players and in the global marketplace.

Market research analysis is vital for all crucial business strategies and can aid in numerous ways and to provide a clearer understanding about strategies being deployed by competitors, product launches, competitive analysis, technological advancements and various other factors that enhance sales of a firm or perhaps provide insights to focus on merger and acquisition as a strategy or enter into strategic agreements or joint ventures etc.

The report contains company profiles of the top companies operating in the market along with their respective revenue and operating segments, geographical reach, market footprint, headquarters, growth rates, recent developments, product /services, expansion strategies, investments in expansion, and more.

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As the U.S. economy recovers from the impact of COVID-19, upskilling programs  defined as training or education that teaches new skills or advances or upgrades existing skills  present a compelling opportunity for workers and businesses. Gallup, commissioned by Amazon, conducted the most comprehensive survey to date on upskilling, The American Upskilling Study: Empowering Workers for the Jobs of Tomorrow. The study found that upskilling is becoming a sought-after employee benefit and powerful attraction tool for employers amid the current labor shortage.

The data reveal that U.S. workers and their employers receive clear benefits from upskilling programs. For workers, upskilling is associated with an additional 8.6% in annual income (about $8,000 on average), higher job satisfaction overall and an increased standard of living. Thirty percent of workers said they were able to move into new, higher-paying jobs after gaining new skills, and 39% said they advanced in their current job. Seventy-one percent of workers who upskilled said it led to greater job satisfaction.

For employers, upskilling opportunities help attract new employees. Sixty-five percent of workers say the opportunity to participate in an upskilling program was an "extremely" or "very" important factor in deciding to take a new job, and 61% cited it as important when weighing the decision to remain at their current job. For young adults, upskilling is the third most important benefit behind only health insurance and disability.

"Upskilling is a massive engine for skill-generation and upward mobility in both income and wellbeing," said Dr. Jonathan Rothwell, principal economist at Gallup. "If brought to a larger scale and to more workers, upskilling could dramatically boost economic growth and reduce wage inequality. Across the country, there is too much 'skilling of the skilled,' whereas upskilling opportunities need to be available to everyone."

Upskilling opportunities are disproportionately offered to the highest-skilled workers. Those who want it most are the least likely to have participated in upskilling or to say their employer provides it. More than two-thirds of workers in computers and mathematics have skills training opportunities provided by their company, while only 37% of workers in transportation and 36% in food services have access to training.

Among racial and ethnic groups, Hispanic workers are most likely to indicate interest in participating in upskilling, with 69% indicating so, followed by Black workers at 63%, Asian workers at 56% and White workers at 53%. When it comes to those who have participated, Black workers (64%) are most likely to have done so in the past 12 months, followed by 63% of Hispanic workers. Asian workers (51%) are substantially less likely to have upskilled in the past year, and White workers are the least likely to have done so, with less than half (46%) saying they have.

"The American Upskilling Study makes it clear that employees across the country are hungry for employer-provided skills training that will help advance their careers," said Ardine Williams, Amazon's vice president of workforce development. "We're seeing that at Amazon, too. More than 70,000 Amazon employees have participated in one of our nine upskilling programs since 2019. Our more than $1.2 billion commitment, which includes funding full college tuition for our front-line employees, aims to upskill 300,000 Amazon employees by 2025 by scaling and growing our successful programs to prepare employees for the jobs of today and the future. It will also help us continue to attract people from all backgrounds who want to develop their career at Amazon."

Regional Differences

Gallup also looked at the data through a regional lens. For information on specific states and MSAs, please reach out to the Gallup media contact listed.

District of Columbia, Maryland and Northern Virginia Area

63% of workers in the DMV said they have participated in upskilling in the last 12 months, more than the 52% of American workers who said they had participated.

Florida

53% of workers in Florida said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, higher than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same.

said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, higher than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same. 69% of workers in Florida said they have participated in upskilling in the last 12 months, compared to the 52% of American workers who participated.

Los Angeles Metropolitan Area

54% of workers in the Los Angeles metropolitan area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, higher than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same.

metropolitan area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, higher than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same. 61% of workers in the Los Angeles metropolitan area said they have participated in upskilling in the last 12 months, compared to the 52% of American workers who participated.

New York Metropolitan Area

45% of workers in the New York metropolitan area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, lower than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same.

metropolitan area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, lower than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same. 59% of workers in the New York metropolitan area said they have participated in upskilling in the last 12 months, compared to the 52% of American workers who participated.

Seattle, Tacoma and Bellevue Area

35% of workers in the Seattle - Tacoma - Bellevue area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, much lower than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same.

- - area said they would leave their job for upskilling opportunities, much lower than the 48% of U.S. workers who would do the same. 55% of workers in the Seattle - Tacoma - Bellevue area said they have participated in upskilling in the last 12 months, compared to the 52% of American workers who participated.

To learn more about Amazon's commitment to upskilling go to: https://aboutamazon.com/upskilling2025

About Gallup

Gallup delivers analytics and advice to help leaders and organizations solve their most pressing problems. Combining more than 80 years of experience with its global reach, Gallup knows more about the attitudes and behaviors of employees, customers, students and citizens than any other organization in the world.

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Gallup, Inc.

Related Links

www.gallup.com


WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pillsbury has published a new research report that seeks to illuminate the important role artificial intelligence stands to play in defending against cyberattacks and data leaks. Titled "Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity: Balancing Innovation, Execution and Risk" and written by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), the 22-page report uses extensive research and expert interviews to examine how AI can help strengthen cybersecurity, how the growing need for data to train AI systems is intensifying concerns around privacy, and how companies can anticipate risk.

"As the public and private sectors have embraced digital transformation, their vulnerability to cyber threats has expanded considerably," said Pillsbury's firmwide Technology Industry Group leader Justin Hovey. "However, AI tools are well-suited to address some of the largest gaps in existing cyber defenses. Our hope is that this research can help organizations better understand the technology and therefore better protect themselves and the individuals they serve."

The research features extensive interviews with leading experts including AJ Abdallat (CEO, Beyond Limits), Johan Gerber (EVP Security & Cyber Innovation, MasterCard), Ansgar Koene (Global AI Ethics & Regulatory Leader, EY), Jessica Newman (Program Lead, AI Security Initiative, UC Berkeley), Marietje Schaake (President, CyberPeace Institute and International Policy Director, Cyber Policy Center, Stanford University), Leo Simonovich (VP & Global Head of Industrial Cyber and Digital Security, Siemens Energy) and Monique Shivanandan (CISO, HSBC). It also contains perspectives from Pillsbury lawyers, including David Stanton's views on the value of cyber risk ratings and Rafi Azim-Khan's take on the potential impact of the European Union's AI Act.

Some of the data collected and examined in the report:

On average, it takes approximately nine months to identify and contain a data breach (207 days to detect the issue and another 73 to rectify it).

The worldwide average cost for a data breach in 2020 was US$3.86 million .

. Business email compromise events increased by more than 50% in 2020, while ransomware attacks were up by 160%, and third-party and supply chain intrusions almost tripled.

Data security is the No. 1 reason many professionals are deploying AI, and nearly half of executives in Asia-Pacific , Europe , and the U.S. (48.9%) think AI/machine learning is the best tool to counter nation-state cyberattacks.

, , and the U.S. (48.9%) think AI/machine learning is the best tool to counter nation-state cyberattacks. The market value of AI in cybersecurity is predicted to reach US$46.3 billion by 2027.

To read the full report, click here.

Pillsbury lawyers advise public and privately held businesses on all manner of cybersecurity, data protection and privacy law issues, with particular experience in the technology, energy, financial, communications, defense/government contracts and health care sectors, as well as with critical infrastructure generally. Our multinational team of regulatory authorities, litigators, transactional lawyers, intellectual property counsel, government contracts practitioners and legislative strategists work closely with clients worldwide to monitor the rapidly changing data and cyber landscapes and tackle related security challenges.

The firm's multidisciplinary AI team likewise advises companies and government agencies on the technical complexities of artificial intelligence, as well as the evolving regulatory and legal standards that apply to it. Whether in relation to machine learning, natural language processing or neural network projects, we work hand-in-hand with AI innovators, early adopters and investors to address the full range of commercial, regulatory and liability concerns they encounter.

SOURCE Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP

Related Links

https://www.pillsburylaw.com/en/news-and-insights/ai-and-cybersecurity-balancing-innovation-execution-and-risk.html


This research suggests that better outcomes can be achieved for participants when food banks

are integrated with community resource centres and when choice is provided.

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - (TSX: MFI) The Ottawa Food Bank and the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security ("the Centre") today announced the findings of one of the first longitudinal research studies of novel food banking strategies in Canada.

Conducted in partnership with researchers from the University of Ottawa from 2017-2020, the study examined the impact of 'wrap-around' support services and offering participants choice over what food they receive on health and food security outcomes. Those who visited food banks integrated with community resource centres were more likely to experience improved food security outcomes over time compared to those visiting other food bank models. Food bank locations that offered a "choice model" resulted in increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as increased feelings of dignity.

These results align with other research, which shows that providing non-food related resources at food banks can improve outcomes for individuals. Despite this, 64% of participants in this study had been accessing a food bank for a year or more, indicating that structural solutions that address insufficient income are needed in conjunction with community support services that provide the best possible outcomes.

"Food insecurity is primarily driven by lack of income," said Rachael Wilson, CEO of Ottawa Food Bank. "These results suggest that there are more beneficial ways to provide help to those who need immediate food assistance, but if we want to see a significant reduction in food insecurity, it's important to recognize the need for systemic change at the government level to address root causes of poverty."

"Community services that provide emergency food are a critical short-term intervention and this research provides insights into how to better support people through a dignified, multi-service approach," said Lynda Kuhn, Chair of the Centre. "Concurrently, reducing food insecurity requires a strong social safety net that ensures all Canadians have the money and resources to meet the basics of life."

The Centre and Daily Bread Food Bank have recently partnered with researchers at the University of Toronto to explore whether these findings can be replicated in Toronto, with results expected in 2023.

The Centre's goal is to work collaboratively across sectors to reduce food insecurity in Canada by 50% by 2030.

About the Ottawa Food Bank

The Ottawa Food Bank is the main emergency food provider in the National Capital Region, which works in partnership with a network of 112 community food programs to provide food and kindness for tens of thousands of people each month  36 per cent of whom are children. With a focus on fresh, and thanks to the community's support, on average 12 to 14 tons of food is distributed from their Michael Street warehouse every weekday. For more information regarding the Ottawa Food Bank and how you can help provide healthy, accessible, sustainable food for all, please visit www.ottawafoodbank.ca





About the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security

The Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security (the Centre) is a registered charity committed to working collaboratively across sectors to reduce food insecurity in Canada by 50% by 2030. The Centre advocates for critical public policies, invests in research, and supports programs that advance the capacity of people and communities to achieve food secure. The Centre was created in 2016 and is governed by a board of directors, including four independent experts. For more information, visit the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security.

Follow us on Twitter:

@MapleLeafFoods

@FeedOpportunity

@OttawaFoodBank

SOURCE The Maple Leaf Centre For Action On Food Security

Related Links

https://www.feedopportunity.com/


COLUMBUS, Ohio, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Visit New Story Schools Columbus, Ohio campus, for an open house September 29 from 4  6 p.m. to view our recent renovations and meet staff and leadership. The renovations include new recreational spaces, dedicated art and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) rooms, larger classrooms, therapy rooms, and an expanded life skills lab for students with developmental disabilities and their families.

"We have a nearly two-decade history of providing excellence in education to students on the autism spectrum or with emotional support needs. Our goal is to help each student that attends our school write a new story of success," said Dr. Morten Haugland, Regional Vice President, New Story Schools. "We are thrilled with these important improvements to the New Story School Columbus campus and look forward to continuing the critical work of being a place that students and families go for support, education and service."

"We're so proud of the ways in which this renovation will better support the hundreds of students who enter New Story Schools Ohio each year," said Paul Volosov, CEO and Founder of New Story. "We believe a great education requires a strong environment for learning, and these renovations provide that."

Formerly Haugland Learning Center, New Story Schools Ohio provides education and services that are designed to foster student progress and learning. This event is free and open to the public. We request that all attendees follow local health department guidelines around COVID-19 precautions. Learn more here.

About New Story Schools Ohio: New Story Schools focuses on removing barriers for all children. We provide an environment that promotes academic, social, and emotional growth for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders or emotional support needs. New Story Schools Ohio uses behavior science customized to the needs of each student to build success.

SOURCE New Story Schools
BOSTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A group of Massachusetts physicians today announced the launch of AllaraCare, a revolutionary approach to healthcare characterized by transparent pricing and a direct relationship between consumers and their doctors.

Led by Dr. Mark Allara, the plan frees patients and physicians from big insurance payer-driven restrictions, resulting in better care for patients and lower costs for employers while helping physicians spend more time on care and less time on administrative tasks.

"Rising healthcare costs are crippling U.S. businesses," says Allara, "and physicians spend more time meeting insurance company requirements than caring for patients. We're changing that."

"Until now there hasn't been much choice but to suffer the annual increases imposed by insurers or traditional self-funded models," says AllaraCare CEO Curt Davis, "We've built a unique approach that makes sure that patients, physicians, and employers no longer have to be held hostage by insurers, returning as much as 43% to employers and their employees, while enabling doctors to spend more time caring for patients."

AllaraCare is also combining complete cost and quality transparency with 'A+ Navigators', people charged with helping members navigate the complexity of care through just a call or a click.

"When everybody knows what everything costs and have personalized care guidance  better decisions are possible and everyone benefits: better care, more choice, and an end to the madness of insurer-driven healthcare costs," notes Allara.

AllaraCare is immediately available in Eastern Massachusetts with aggressive regional and national growth plans.

About AllaraCare

AllaraCare is helping patients, providers, and employers take back the practice of healthcarewithout the nonsense imposed by insurance-driven systems. By combining direct relationships between doctors and patients, total cost transparency, and AllaraCare's highly-trained A+ Navigators, our team helps everyone involved make better decisions, resulting in higher quality, lower-cost care. To learn more about how AllaraCare can help you take back healthcare, visit us at http://www.allaracare.com

MEDIA CONTACT

Curt Davis

[email protected]

AllaraCare

408-398-3913

Photo(s):

https://www.prlog.org/12884185

Press release distributed by PRLog

SOURCE AllaraCare

Related Links

https://www.allaracare.com/


CENTENNIAL, Colo., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NioCorp Developments Ltd. ("NioCorp" or the "Company") (TSX: NB;OTCQX: NIOBF) is pleased to announce that its CEO and Executive Chairman Mark Smith will present to investors around the world on NioCorp's Elk Creek Superalloy Materials Project at the 23rd Annual Global Investment Conference, sponsored by New York City-based H.C. Wainwright & Co., on Monday, September 13, 2021.

The conference will be conducted virtually and Mr. Smith's presentation will be webcast live at 7 a.m. Eastern on the 13th. It also will be available for on-demand viewing by the public for 90 days following the conference. Investors and members of the public can register to see the webcast by going here: https://journey.ct.events/view/a7cd64a0-8ce0-4ea0-90cd-dbc830c03a84

Expected to participate in the H.C. Wainwright conference are hundreds of private equity firms, venture capitalists, institutional investors, family funds, and individual investors. In addition to Mr. Smith's presentation, he and NioCorp's Vice President for External Affairs, Jim Sims, will be participating in one-on-one virtual meetings with investors over the several days of the conference.

NioCorp $NB $NIOBF #Niobium #Scandium #rareearth #ElkCreek #HCWainwright

For More Information

Contact Jim Sims, VP of External Affairs, NioCorp Developments Ltd., 303-503-6203, [email protected], https://www.niocorp.com

About NioCorp

NioCorp is developing a superalloy materials project in Southeast Nebraska that will produce Niobium, Scandium, and Titanium. The Company also is evaluating the potential to produce several rare earth byproducts from the Project. Niobium is used to produce superalloys as well as High Strength, Low Alloy ("HSLA") steel, which is a lighter, stronger steel used in automotive, structural, and pipeline applications. Scandium is a superalloy material that can be combined with Aluminum to make alloys with increased strength and improved corrosion resistance. Scandium is also a critical component of advanced solid oxide fuel cells. Titanium is used in various superalloys and is a key component of pigments used in paper, paint and plastics and is also used for aerospace applications, armor, and medical implants. Magnetic rare earths, such as Neodymium, Praseodymium, Terbium, and Dysprosium are critical to the making of Neodymium-Iron-Boron ("NdFeB") magnets, which are used across a wide variety of defense and civilian applications.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this new release may constitute forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the Company's expectation that it will present at the Conference referenced and participate in discussions with individual investors. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause a change in such assumptions and the actual outcomes and estimates to be materially different from those estimated or anticipated future results, achievements or position expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements. Risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause NioCorp's plans or prospects to change include risks related to the Company's ability to operate as a going concern; risks related to the Company's requirement of significant additional capital; changes in demand for and price of commodities (such as fuel and electricity) and currencies; changes in economic valuations of the Project, such as Net Present Value calculations, changes or disruptions in the securities markets; legislative, political or economic developments; the need to obtain permits and comply with laws and regulations and other regulatory requirements; the possibility that actual results of work may differ from projections/expectations or may not realize the perceived potential of NioCorp's projects; risks of accidents, equipment breakdowns and labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions; the possibility of cost overruns or unanticipated expenses in development programs; operating or technical difficulties in connection with exploration, mining or development activities; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities of grades of reserves and resources; and the risks involved in the exploration, development and mining business and the risks set forth in the Company's filings with Canadian securities regulators at www.sedar.com and the SEC at www.sec.gov. NioCorp disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

SOURCE NioCorp Developments Ltd.

Related Links

http://www.niocorp.com


COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Omada A/S ("Omada"), a global leader of Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), and Performanta, a managed security and consulting firm, today announced a new strategic partnership in the UK. The two companies, both Microsoft Gold Partners, will provide improved identity governance for customers, helping them with identity governance and access risk management, and enhancing the security posture of their business and their Microsoft environment.

Omada Identity augments and enhances security and access management for Microsoft environments including Microsoft Identity Manager, O365 and Azure. Complementing the service offerings Performanta provides to its customers, the partnership with Omada will enable Performanta to help its customers better address identity governance and access management challenges.

This partnership is particularly powerful for customers currently on a journey from Microsoft Identity Manager (MIM) to Azure. Combining Omada's expansive and well-positioned offering and Performanta's knowledge and experience, users will be able to forge ahead on their journey to the cloud at their own pace:

No user is left behind; the joint solution allows for migration from MIM to Azure at the user's own pace

A more complete identity journey is available thanks to these synergistic offerings

Customers will benefit from enhanced identity governance and compliance capabilities

Matt Brunton, Head of Strategic Alliances, Performanta, said: "By partnering with Omada, we can help customers accomplish their identity access and governance objectives, supporting them as they use Omada Identity to deliver on an array of challenges in their businesses. We are proud to be associated with a clear leader in the identity field and look forward to helping all customers get the most out of their company's identity management and security."

Michael Garrett, CEO, Omada, said: "We're always looking for partnerships that will advance our goal of delighting our customers and meeting their business needs. Together, Performanta and Omada will help more customers benefit from Omada Identity in combination with the knowledge, services and support that Performanta provides to customers."

About Omada

Omada, a global market leader in Identity Governance and Administration (IGA), offers a full-featured, enterprise-grade, cloud native IGA solution that enables organizations to achieve compliance, reduce risk, and maximize efficiency. Founded in 2000, Omada delivers innovative identity management to complex hybrid environments based on our proven best practice process framework and deployment approach.

For more information, go to omadaidentity.com

About Performanta

Performanta was founded in 2010 and has over 150 staff worldwide, including former CIOs/CISOs from large enterprises. It has a global footprint with a team of 80 analysts working in two SOCs, helping to secure customers across 50 countries, from offices in the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, South Africa, and the USA. Performanta offers a consultative approach to people, processes, and technology, focusing on security projects in line with adversarial, accidental and environmental business risk. With a holistic cybersecurity view, they understand the modus operandi of a perpetrator and accordingly build an intelligent defense mechanism to make customer environments less susceptible to attacks.

Media Contact:

Corey Eldridge

831-440-2414

[email protected]

SOURCE Omada A/S

Related Links

https://omadaidentity.com/


Use state-of-the-art 3D and 2D techniques to search and analyze more than 3.6 billion stereo-enumerated molecules with 36 billion conformers, generated from available compounds in Enamine's purchasable REAL  Database

Database Identify promising drug-like molecules from billions of compounds in as little as 30 minutes and at a fraction of the cost of in vitro high-throughput screening assays

Enamine commits to manufacture at least 80 percent of any selection from those molecules, leading to:

Completion of the manufacturing process within 3-4 weeks

Acceleration of the hit-finding process, meaning more new drugs get to market quicker

Matthew Geballe, Vice President of Product at OpenEye Scientific, said:

"This collaboration brings benefits to everyone involved. When you consider the old-fashioned way of manual screening with a million molecules in plastic trays, what we are doing with Enamine is really revolutionary."

"Giving OpenEye customers access within Orion to Enamine's turnkey, professionally prepared, and continuously updated database with billions of compounds will help our customers select candidates much earlier in the discovery process."

OpenEye's Orion molecular design platform uses:

The power of up to hundreds of thousands of CPUs and hundreds to thousands of GPUs through Amazon Web Services to provide the fault-tolerant computational capacity required to meet significant scientific and large-scale virtual screening demands

Michael Bossert, Head of Strategic Alliances at Enamine, said:

"We are happy to partner with OpenEye and conveniently provide our REAL Database for virtual screenings within Orion."

"Complex tasks of finding and optimizing lead compounds can be efficiently performed using various available toolkits in this molecular design platform. However, researchers do need to be sure that their identified valuable molecules will be actually tested in the lab. At Enamine we have worked hard to assure high systematic success rate of synthesis, which in many cases attains 100% within just 3-4 weeks."

About Enamine Ltd.

Enamine is a global leading designer and largest producer of building blocks (240,000+) and screening libraries (2.7M+ compounds).

The REAL Database is a collection of currently 1.95 billion enumerated compounds that can be synthesized within only 3 weeks with more than an 80% success rate.

Enamine provides expertise in advanced organic synthesis, library synthesis, and medicinal chemistry.

In 2011 Enamine established a pre-clinical service unit including ADME, in-vivo PK studies, and High Throughput Screening under the brand name "Bienta," allowing the company to tackle since that time fully integrated or a-la-carte research programs.

About OpenEye Scientific

OpenEye Scientific is an industry leader in computational molecular design, based on decades of delivering rapid, robust, and scalable software, toolkits, and technology and design services.

Our scientific, physics-based approach to molecular design historically focused on molecular shape and electrostatic potential to inform and guide molecular discovery and optimization. OpenEye has now integrated its applications and toolkits into Orion, the only cloud-native, fully integrated molecular design platform.

Combining unlimited computation and storage with powerful tools for data sharing, visualization and analysis in an open development platform, Orion offers unprecedented capabilities for the advancement of pharmaceuticals, biologics, agrochemicals, and flavors and fragrances.

Founded in 1997, OpenEye is a privately held company headquartered in Santa Fe, N.M., with offices in Boston, Mass.; Cologne, Germany; and Tokyo, Japan. For more information, go to www.openeye.inc .

Contacts

Josh Segal

OpenEye Scientific

+1.617.947.3795

[email protected]

Michael Bossert

Enamine Ltd.

+38.044.537.32.18

[email protected]

SOURCE OpenEye Scientific

Related Links

www.eyesopen.com


STOCKHOLM, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Highly respected providers of world-wide iGaming hosting solutions, Internet Vikings is rapidly expanding into the U.S. market. Having recently announced the launch of its initial operations in West Virginia , the company is now excited to introduce its bespoke iGaming hosting services in Colorado. But this is just the second step in Internet Vikings' expansion into the U.S. with 11 more states expected to come onto their map by the end of the year.

As the USA steadily continues to recognise the immense commercial value of the online gaming business, implementation of the necessary regulations for its legalization is quickly spreading across the country. Internet Vikings is thereby furthering its global reputation as a forward-looking industry leader, paving the way for iGaming operators in a nation with tremendous potential and offering sophisticated bespoke hosting solutions for gaming businesses of all dimensions and for clients who have specific requirements.Elena Kvakova, Internet Vikings' Head of U.S. Expansion has been heading up the company's pivotal move into America from their office in New York since 2020. Preparing the groundwork has been an important challenge, involving a thorough study of the differences and specifics of gambling legislation which vary from state to state, in a country with a complex legal system.

The initial preparations in order to get the industry off the ground has been a learning curve not only for Internet Vikings - despite 13 years of successful global operations in many jurisdictions - but also for the U.S. regulators, as they have worked at establishing suitable and compliant legal structures for each state. This is best expressed in the words of Elena Kvakova: "The biggest challenge for Internet Vikings was finding the right approach to a new market in which regulators did not expect such an innovative and robust business model, as well as trying to find our own niche in a newly formed legal environment".

Internet Vikings has already achieved success despite these complexities. The experience has made them one of the leading experts in U.S. gambling law by developing a profound understanding regarding their future expansion across the USA. The level of their knowledge has grown to the extent that they now gladly help other iGaming companies to set up and expand in this market, as well as offering valuable advice through their webinars.

Elena Kvakova expressed the strengths of Internet Vikings by saying: "What we have seen so far, is that the licensed hosting options in the U.S. are both limited and costly and something which providers have to figure out, in addition to everything else. So what we are trying to do in a few key states right now, is to reconsider that setup, and offer equally reliable and secure services, but making them more agile and cost-effective. No other company in the USA is offering such flexible, innovative and robust solutions. We want to grow and transform alongside our clients".

Internet Vikings is not the only company of its kind on American soil, yet it certainly stands out above the others. Professional, knowledgeable and forward-thinking, they offer a host of unique iGaming hosting services as well as caring attention to each and every client. The company aims to provide trustworthy infrastructure and servers in the nearest future in all 13 major iGaming hubs in the U.S., paying close attention to the unique needs of each individual business.

This is a rapidly growing, cutting edge team of over 70 experts spread around the world, with data centers and offices on almost every continent. Strategic and agile in their approach, they don't merely follow industry trends, but continually seek to anticipate and precede such developments. Tremendous time, dedication and resources have been utilized in order to achieve their position as a frontrunner on the flourishing U.S. iGaming landscape, working with great commitment to take a leading role in what is likely to become the world's biggest online gaming hotspot.

For press enquiries please contact

Julija Lavosnik

+447738878811

[email protected]

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/internet-vikings-international-ab/r/opening-new-doors-in-the-u-s--internet-vikings-launches-igaming-hosting-in-colorado,c3412377

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https://news.cision.com/internet-vikings-international-ab/i/igaming-hosting-in-colorado,c2952457 iGaming hosting in Colorado https://news.cision.com/internet-vikings-international-ab/i/elena-kvakova,c2952458 Elena Kvakova

SOURCE Internet Vikings International AB
NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Judges from tech-industry awards program The Cloud Awards, currently celebrating its tenth anniversary, are looking for an "innovator of the decade" in this year's honors.

The once-in-a-decade award commemorates ten years of the Cloud Awards identifying the most innovative use of Cloud technologies.

The Cloud Awards logo

James Williams, Cloud Awards Head of Operations, said: "After a successful and highly-subscribed year for our sister program the SaaS Awards, we also have lots of new categories to enter for the Cloud Awards, which closes in October.

"These range from 'Best Place to Work in the Cloud,' to 'Best Cloud-Native Project or Solution.' The jewel in the crown for any organization is our 'Cloud Innovator of the Decade' award  however, we can only judge the applications which land on our desk!"

Lead judge Richard Geary said: "Cloud technologies have continued to evolve over the past decade, so we're eager to identify the organization which has most adapted and moved with the times, continuing to innovate and provide value to its customers."

The Cloud Awards team was also joined last year by volunteer judge Neha Pattan, a senior staff software engineer at Google and SaaS veteran managing a team of over 40 software engineers. Neha is looking to identify "cutting-edge innovations."

Prospective participants are encouraged to submit their applications to the Cloud Awards program ahead of the deadline: October 22, 2021.

For more information, please visit the cloud computing awards website: https://www.cloud-awards.com/cloud-computing-awards/

Cloud Awards Categories:

Best Software as a Service - USA (Enterprise)

(Enterprise) Best Software as a Service - USA (SMB)

(SMB) Best Software as a Service - outside USA

Best Cloud Infrastructure

Best Platform as a Service / Cloud Middleware

Most Innovative Use of Data in the Cloud

Best Cloud Data Management Solution

"Best in Mobile" Cloud Solution

Best Hybrid Cloud Solution

Cloud CRM Solution of the Year

Best Cloud HR / HRMS Solution

Best Cloud ERP / Payroll Solution

Best Cloud Automation Solution

Cloud Management Solution of the Year

Best Cloud Migration or Systems Integration Solution

Best Use of the Cloud in a Multicloud Environment

Best Open Source Cloud Solution

Best Use of Artificial Intelligence in Cloud Computing

B2B Customer Strategy

Security Innovation of the Year (Enterprise)

Security Innovation of the Year (SMB)

Best Cloud Consultancy or MSP

Best Cloud Payment, Finance or Billing Solution

Best Cloud Business Intelligence or Analytics Solution

Most Promising Start-Up

Cloud Innovator of the Year

Best Cloud DR / Business Continuity Solution

Cloud Development Innovation of the Year

Cloud Project of the Year

Best Use of Telephony / Unified Communications in Cloud Computing

Best Environmental or 'Green' Use of the Cloud

Best Use of the Cloud in the Internet of Things (IoT)

Cloud Disruptor of the Year

Best Geospatial / Aviation Cloud Solution

Best Place to Work in the Cloud

Best Cloud-Native Project / Solution

Cloud Awards' Cloud Innovator of the Decade (2011-2021)

Contact:

James Williams

(212) 574-8117

[email protected]

SOURCE The Cloud Awards

Related Links

https://www.cloud-awards.com/cloud-computing-awards/


CHANTILLY, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Peraton and OneWeb, a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications company, today announced a distribution partnership agreement for Peraton to offer OneWeb's low latency and cloud connectivity solutions to its critical government and commercial infrastructure customers.

OneWeb's global, secure, and low latency satellite network built on 4G standards with Metro Ethernet Forum aligned products will dramatically advance Peraton's capability to deliver secure, high-bandwidth, integrated global solutions to support its customers' challenging mission needs in unfavorable operating environments. OneWeb's open architecture and high throughput network will directly enable Peraton to offer seamless integration of remote and mobile sites around the globe in support of its customers' most critical mission sets.

"The capabilities offered by OneWeb's satellite network complement Peraton's existing satellite and terrestrial services," said Mike King, Peraton's Chief Growth Officer. "We are now positioned to provide a more comprehensive suite of communications capabilities with the flexibility to go wherever our customers' missions take them."

"LEO communication represents a game-changing capability for maritime, aviation, defense, and other customers operating in remote environments outside of standard network coverage areas," said Nate White, Peraton's Vice President and General Manager of Communications. "These customers currently rely on more conventional satellite solutions with high latency, lower throughput and greater delivery costs. OneWeb's LEO satellites services will enable Peraton to deliver improved flexibility, reliability, and capacity at reduced costs to our customers."

Peraton adds OneWeb to the company's extensive portfolio of communications solutions providing LEO capability as primary or as a hot backup to existing geostationary (GEO) satellites and fiber circuits for the DoD.

"OneWeb is delighted to join forces with Peraton to support a broad portfolio of national security, intelligence, federal, and commercial customers. The combination of OneWeb's transformative connectivity solutions combined with Peraton's expertise and customer intimacy will accelerate our growth in these markets," said OneWeb's Head of Government Services Dylan Browne.

The enhanced service delivery options enabled by OneWeb's LEO network will increase the array of value-added communications services Peraton provides to its law enforcement, defense, and national, state and local government customers. This capability will also significantly expand Peraton's global network reach by allowing the extension of low latency broadband services to even the most remote locations, including historically challenging regions in Africa and the Indo-Pacific.

This distribution partnership agreement builds on Peraton's recent contract awards to provide commercial satellite communications services to U.S. Central Command and U.S. Africa Command.

About Peraton

Peraton drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted and highly differentiated national security solutions and technologies that keep people safe and secure. Peraton serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies across the intelligence, space, cyber, defense, civilian, health, and state and local markets. Every day, our employees do the can't be done, solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit Peraton.com/News and follow Peraton on LinkedIn for news and updates.

About OneWeb

OneWeb is a global communications network powered from space, headquartered in London, enabling connectivity for governments, businesses, and communities. It is implementing a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites with a network of global gateway stations and a range of user terminals to provide an affordable, fast, high-bandwidth and low-latency communications service, connected to the IoT future and a pathway to 5G for everyone, everywhere. Find out more at www.oneweb.net

SOURCE Peraton

Related Links

https://www.peraton.com


MENLO PARK, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Quicken Inc. ("Quicken"), maker of America's best-selling personal finance software, announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement for Aquiline Capital Partners LLC ("Aquiline") to acquire a majority stake in the company. Quicken CEO Eric Dunn will continue to hold an equity stake alongside other employees. Aquiline, a New York- and London-based private investment firm with $6.9 billion in assets under management, has expertise investing in financial services and technology companies. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Our team is dedicated to giving our customers the tools they need to confidently take control of their finances. I'm enormously proud of the company we've built together," said Quicken CEO Eric Dunn. "We look forward to partnering with Aquiline, whose expertise in financial technology will help us continue to deliver on our mission of helping people lead healthier financial lives. We are also grateful for the support and partnership from H.I.G. Capital over the past five years, which allowed us to modernize the business by investing in our family of products and in growing our customer base."

Aquiline will purchase a majority stake in Quicken Inc. from an affiliate of H.I.G. Capital, which acquired the company from Intuit Inc. in 2016. Dunn joined as CEO at the same time, leading the company through a period of significant transformation and growth. Under Dunn's leadership, the company moved to a subscription membership program, modernized Quicken's user interface, introduced Quicken web and mobile companion apps, and launched Simplifi by Quicken, a modern personal finance app for digital natives.

Quicken's focus on helping people lead healthier financial lives enabled the company to drive growth to over 2 million active users and meaningfully increase its Net Promoter Score (NPS), annual sales volumes and average customer lifespan. Quicken and Simplifi have been recognized as leading products in the personal finance space by The New York Times' Wirecutter, Fast Company, U.S. News & World Report, Investopedia, and PCMag, among others. Together with Aquiline, Quicken intends to invest in continued enhancements to its pioneering personal financial management offerings, including through collaboration and partnership with other leading fintech innovators.

"Quicken is trusted by millions of customers, who rely on it to lead healthy financial lives," said Vincenzo La Ruffa, president of Aquiline Capital Partners. "As a longtime Quicken user myself, I've seen firsthand the work Eric and the team at Quicken have put into building a compelling suite of products and services. I am confident in the growth trajectory ahead as we work with the company to expand the range of innovative solutions it offers in the personal financial management space."

"In 2016, we partnered with the Quicken team to transform the business by focusing on product quality, customer care and innovation. The results have been astounding," said Justin Reyna, managing director at H.I.G. Capital. "We're proud of the Quicken team's achievements and know they will continue to exceed expectations and lead the industry forward."

Quicken will retain its current management team and offices in Menlo Park, Tucson, and Bangalore. The transaction is expected to close in late September. Greenhill & Co served as financial advisor to Aquiline, and Jefferies served as exclusive financial advisor to Quicken in the transaction.

About Quicken Inc.

Quicken is the best-selling personal finance software in the U.S. For over 30 years, more than 17 million customers have relied on Quicken to help them take control of their finances. Quicken's award-winning suite of personal finance software and apps  including Quicken Starter Edition, Quicken Deluxe, Quicken Premier, and Quicken Home & Business  cater to different financial needs and device preferences. Simplifi by Quicken, named the "best budgeting app and tools" by The New York Times' Wirecutter, was added to the Quicken product suite in 2020. Simplifi, a web and mobile app, is designed to help a new generation of digital natives easily stay on top of their finances. Download Simplifi on Google Play or the App Store , and learn more at www.simplifimoney.com .

About Aquiline Capital Partners

Aquiline Capital Partners, founded in 2005, is a private investment firm based in New York and London investing in companies across financial services and technology, business services, and healthcare industries. The firm had $6.9 billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2021. For more information about Aquiline, its investment professionals, and its portfolio companies, please visit www.aquiline.com .

About H.I.G. Capital

H.I.G. Capital is a leading global alternative assets investment firm with $45 billion of equity capital under management. H.I.G. specializes in providing both debt and equity capital to small and mid-sized companies, utilizing an operationally focused and value-added approach. The firm is based in Miami and has offices in New York, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Atlanta, as well as international affiliate offices in London, Hamburg, Madrid, Milan, Paris, Bogota, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Since its founding in 1993, H.I.G. has invested in and managed more than 300 companies worldwide. The firm's current portfolio includes more than 100 companies with combined sales in excess of $30 billion. For more information, please refer to the H.I.G. website at www.higcapital.com.

SOURCE Quicken

Related Links

https://www.quicken.com


"Our pets, including the more than 11 million new furry friends and counting that came into our homes during the pandemic, have unquestionably been our emotional saviors for the last 18+ months, and now it's our turn to be theirs," said Ron Coughlin , Chairman and CEO of Petco. "As our routines begin to change, whether it's returning to school, work, travel or more social gathering  it's more critical now than ever for pet parents to understand how these changes can affect their pets' wellbeing and what we can do to help them adjust in a healthy way."

According to a new Petco survey, 72% of dog parents and 51% of cat parents believe their pets have exhibited symptoms of anxiety, but less than 25% of them can correctly identify all the physical symptoms of mental health issues.* Additionally, 60% of dog parents and 48% of cat parents say not having the right resources  like knowing where to get help and information about their pet's mental health and how to prepare them to spend more time alone  is an obstacle in helping their pet adjust to the return to normal.

Recognizing this gap, Petco is doubling down on its commitment to pet mental health with the launch of the free one-hour interactive training seminar, titled "Well-Adjusted Dog: Preparing for Separation and Social Anxiety," as well as a newly released four-week separation anxiety training for pet parents looking for additional training education. The new training seminar will bring to life the brand's Four-Week Guide to Helping Your Pet Deal with a New Routine with actionable steps to help ease pet separation and social anxiety. The class will be led by Petco's certified dog trainers in small group Zoom sessions. Within the sixty minutes, pet parents will learn how to recognize the escalation from excited to anxious and be introduced to relaxation techniques to help deescalate their pets.

"The animals we live with essentially helped to care for us  providing companionship and cheer  in this time of the pandemic and social isolation. Many people saw their animals like never before," said Dr. Alexandra Horowitz, MS, PhD, a member of the Petco Pet Wellness Council and senior research fellow, adjunct associate professor and head of the Horowitz Dog Cognition Lab at Barnard College. "As our society shifts to spending less time at home, it is critical that we return the favor, appreciating their point of view and caring for their mental health as they're left at home without us. Petco's initiative helps us do exactly that."

In addition to the free seminar and to further support pet parents as they may spend more time away from home, on September 1, Petco launched the "Separation Anxiety Training Course," developed in partnership with Petco National Dog Training Manager, Darris Cooper, and Fanna Easter, a certified separation anxiety trainer. Broken into four one-hour sessions, the course covers topics including mat training, relaxation protocol, product spotlights, real-life applications and more. The course is available to pet parents for $99 both online and in-person at Petco pet care centers.

"With the free training seminar, we're providing pet parents with an overview of pet mental health tools, including preparing the home environment and utilizing calming and enrichment solutions, which will help ease the transition as changing routines take form," said Cooper. "It's important for pet parents to pay close attention to their pets and be able to identify the warning sings they demonstrate when they feel anxious. The full four-week separation anxiety class builds upon the core teachings of the seminar and provides pet parents with actionable learnings that will be essential to successfully navigating new routines."

Today Cooper will co-host an Instagram Live with actress, mental health advocate and animal lover Olivia Munn to discuss pet anxiety and what resources are available at Petco. As the first official "Well-Adjusted Dog" seminar participant and pet parent to rescue pups Frankie and Chance, Olivia will answer questions about the new free seminar and her pack's experience with anxiety. Pet parents can tune into the Instagram Live on Petco's official Instagram channel today, Sept. 9, at 5 p.m. PST.

As part of the new pet anxiety training offerings, Petco will also be dedicating partner resources on Saturday, Sept. 18 at Petco pet care centers nationally to help pet parents find solutions specific to the mental health issues their pets are facing. With Petco's help, every pet and their parent can find the mental health solution they need through a wide variety of calming and anxiety relief supplies, including calming oils, thunder suits and toys available at Petco and petco.com.

The new training courses debut alongside the latest chapter in the brand's "It's what we'd want if we were pets" platform, featuring a new campaign revealing what changes in human routine look like from the pet perspective.

To learn more about Petco's mission to support pet mental health or sign up for the latest trainings, visit petco.com/mentalhealth and petco.com/dogtraining.

*Statistics from 2021 Petco consumer survey of 1,000 U.S. dog and cat parents.

About Petco, The Health + Wellness Co.

Petco is a category-defining health and wellness company focused on improving the lives of pets, pet parents and our own Petco partners. Since our founding in 1965, we've been striving to set new standards in pet care, delivering comprehensive wellness solutions through our products and services, and creating communities that deepen the pet-pet parent bond. We operate more than 1,500 Petco locations across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, including a growing network of more than 150 in-store veterinary hospitals, and offer a complete online resource for pet health and wellness at petco.com and on the Petco app. In tandem with Petco Love (formerly the Petco Foundation), an independent nonprofit organization, we work with and support thousands of local animal welfare groups across the country and, through in-store adoption events, we've helped find homes for more than 6.5 million animals.

Contact:

Yvonne Tarrab

[email protected]

SOURCE Petco Health and Wellness Company, Inc.

Related Links

http://petco.com


DAEJEON, South Korea, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- PharmAbcine Inc. (KOSDAQ: 208340ks), a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on the development of next-generation antibody therapeutics, today announced it submitted a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) application for the combination therapy of olinvacimab, the Company's anti-VEGFR2 antibody, and KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), MSD's anti-PD-1 antibody, for the treatment of cancer.

The PCT application is an international application that preserves the priority date. The PCT is an international treaty that has over 150 Contracting States worldwide. It assists applicants in seeking patent protection internationally for their inventions, helps patent offices with their patent granting decisions, and facilitates public access to a wealth of technical information relating to those inventions.

The application, which was submitted jointly with MSD, is based on the Phase Ib olinvacimab and pembrolizumab combo trial in metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (mTNBC). According to the interim result presented at San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS) 2020, the combo therapy showed encouraging efficacy data, including 50% Overall Response Rate (ORR) and 67% Disease Control Rate (DCR) in the high-dose olinvacimab (16mg/kg) cohort (n=6pts).

mTNBC is a highly malignant type of cancer that shows a high recurrence rate within the first five years after the diagnosis. mTNBC accounts for 15-20% of all breast cancers and shows a 5-year survival rate of approximately 11%. Unlike some other breast cancers, mTNBC does not express estrogen or progesterone receptors or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and it does not respond to existing cancer drugs designed to target these markers. mTNBC is very difficult to treat, and there are very few FDA approved treatment options for these patients.

Olinvacimab, an anti-VEGFR2 (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2) fully human antibody, is the Company's leading pipeline and is undergoing multiple global clinical trials. In early September 2021, PharmAbcine initiated a Phase II olinvacimab and pembrolizumab combo study for the treatment of mTNBC (metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer) in Australia. Also, a Phase II olinvacimab mono study for bevacizumab-nonresponding rGBM (recurrent glioblastoma multiforme) patients at multiple sites in both US and Australia and two Phase Ib olinvacimab and pembrolizumab combo trials in mTNBC and rGBM in Australia are still ongoing.

"Submission of this patent application will be our first step in securing the novelty of the combo therapy." said Dr. Jin-San Yoo, CEO of PharmAbcine. "We will move onto getting our patent secured in multiple countries with great needs for a cancer treatment."

About PharmAbcine Inc.

PharmAbcine is a clinical-stage biotech company focusing on the development of fully human antibody therapeutics to treat neovascular disorders, tumors, and other medically unmet diseases. It provides therapeutic antibodies for a wide spectrum of indications from oncology, immuno-oncology, ophthalmology, pulmonology, to renal pathology.

PharmAbcine has its own HuPhage library and innovative selection system. PharmAbcine's advanced 3G expression system accommodates high levels of antibody production and steady reproducibility. With these cutting-edge technology platforms, it provides state-of-the art antibody generation services.

PharmAbcine also has unique knowhow in the area of the antibody production, early drug development, and clinical development.

For additional information about PharmAbcine, visit http://www.pharmabcine.com or follow us on Youtube and Linkedin.

For licensing deals, co-development, and collaboration in research or antibody discovery inquiries, please contact:

Business Development Team

E-mail: [email protected]

Office line: +82 70 4279 5100

For investor relations and public relations inquiries, please contact:

IR/PR Team

Paul Kim, Chief Financial Officer

E-mail: [email protected]

Office line: +82 70 4270 2632

Sungjun Park, Associate

E-mail: [email protected]

Office line: +82 70 4270 2637

SOURCE PharmAbcine

Related Links

http://www.pharmabcine.com/


SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Phoenix American, a leading transfer agent and fund administration provider for alternative investments and VENTURE.co, a straight-through processing solution for alternative investments, have announced an integration to provide a seamless, fully digital subscription process utilizing enterprise-grade technology. The integration will enable advisors and investors to access, review and subscribe alternative investment products digitally using VENTURE.co's virtual data room and multi-party subscription execution workflow resulting in a complete and active investment record in the Phoenix American transfer agent system, STAR-XMS.

Phoenix American Logo VENTURE.co Logo

STRAIGHT-THROUGH PROCESSING AND DATA ROOM FUNCTIONALITY

The integration between VENTURE.co and Phoenix American's back-office infrastructure is a key step in advancing the efficiency of the alternative investment industry, creating a streamlined investment experience. With VENTURE.co, distributors have the ability to operationalize sales channels in a single system of record, whether direct to high net worth (HNW) investors or through independent broker-dealers (IBDs) and registered investment advisors (RIAs). Workflows initiated by a managing dealer and/or sponsor enable role-based access for multiple parties to conduct due diligence, sign selling agreements, invite advisors and/or investors, and execute subscriptions via e-signature or wet-ink. The entire process is evidenced with logging and reporting functionality for compliance management and record-keeping. Completed subscriptions with full documentation automatically become active investments in Phoenix American's STAR-XMS transfer agent system, which then manages all investor services processes over the life of the investment.

"VENTURE.co is laser focused on delivering straight-through processing capabilities to the alternatives industry. Connections with back-office and investor services infrastructure is key to achieving the most efficient and secure experience for all involved," said Aaron Pollak, Founder and CEO of VENTURE.co. "VENTURE.co is the most comprehensive and configurable solution for transacting alternatives that are sold through intermediaries or direct to investors. The more our industry is served by a network of firms committed to a secure and comprehensive experience, like this integration with Phoenix American, the more seamlessly alternatives will transact across these networks for the benefit of the overall industry and especially for the protection of investors."

The manual subscription process has long been a time consuming frustration in the alternative investment industry. A significant problem is completed subscription documents that arrive at the transfer agent with errors or 'not in good order' (NIGO). Minimizing NIGOs by developing a purchase process that eliminates manual data input and paper documents has been a long-term goal for alternatives. The Phoenix American VENTURE.co integration achieves this with a fully digital invitation, review, subscription, investment admit and investor services process that maximizes data security.

"Phoenix American is an innovator in the alternatives industry and welcomes the added efficiency of the VENTURE.co integration," said Andrew Constantin, Chief Operations Officer at Phoenix American. "STAR-XMS is the most advanced investor services platform in alternatives. The more easily and efficiently new investor data can get into STAR, the better for sponsors, investors and all concerned."

SEAMLESS FRONT-TO-BACK END CONNECTIVITY

The seamless transfer of data between front-end and back-end systems without manual intervention fundamentally changes the alternative investment experience. With Phoenix American integrated with VENTURE.co, true front-to-back connectivity of pure data involving no paper will occur. Authentically connecting sponsors, investors, advisors, due diligence officers, compliance professionals and fund administration in an all-digital environment enhances transparency and addresses an operational friction that has rate-limited growth in the alternatives industry. Both Phoenix American and VENTURE.co see the potential in this integration to grow the alternatives industry and create transformational change.

About Phoenix American:

Phoenix American provides full-service fund administration, fund accounting, transfer agent and investor services as well as sales and marketing reporting to fund sponsors in the alternative investment industry. The Phoenix American aircraft group provides managing agent and accounting services for asset-backed securitizations specializing in the commercial aviation leasing industry. The company was founded in 1972, has six offices worldwide and is headquartered in San Rafael, CA.

About VENTURE.co:

Founded in 2015, VENTURE.co Services, LLC offers a technology platform solution is built to integrate data and meet the needs of alternative investment funds through straight-through processing to risk mitigation to sales management. The company's cloud native solution allows clients to retain ownership of their data and increase their alternative investment offering capabilities eliminating data misuse and the limited shelf-life of more narrowly focused investment processing technologies. Through data integration partnerships, VENTURE.co streamlines alternative investments further with a solution designed to grow with clients for the long term.

Media Contact:

Phoenix American

David Fisher

310.621.7822

[email protected]

VENTURE.co

Trevor Nesbit

[email protected]

SOURCE Phoenix American
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is proud to announce the designation of ten of its recent graduates as Piedmont Scholars. The inaugural cohort of Scholars  Sara Abdullah, Sam Alsamaraee, Dino Bukic, Justin Cary, Quana Dennis Jr., Camille Garcia, Casey Halfacre, Liam Kidd, James McIvor and Christian Garcia Rivera  have all transferred to the University of Virginia and have been awarded scholarships covering full in-state tuition and fees.

The Piedmont Scholars Program, announced in March, is an endowed fund that provides scholarships to qualifying PVCC graduates who are transferring to UVA. All in-state students who apply for transfer admission to UVA as full-time, degree-seeking students, and who will earn an associate degree from PVCC, are eligible to be considered.

Among the initial Piedmont Scholars, Abdullah transferred from PVCC into the McIntire School of Commerce. Alsamaraee and Kidd are enrolled in the School of Engineering and Applied Science. Dennis transferred to the School of Education and Human Development, while Bukic and Garcia are now enrolled in the School of Nursing. Rivera is in the College of Arts and Sciences along with Halfacre, McIvor and Cary.

"I salute these 10 outstanding students who comprise the inaugural class of Piedmont Scholars. For hundreds of students each year the pathway to a UVA degree begins at PVCC. The UVA-PVCC partnership has been a national model for many years and the Piedmont Scholars initiative takes our partnership to an even higher level," stated PVCC President Frank Friedman.

PVCC and UVA have had a unique partnership since the 1980s. Each year, approximately 150 students transfer from PVCC to UVA, many of whom have attended local high schools in Charlottesville, Albemarle and the surrounding counties. The Piedmont Scholars Program elevates the partnership and enables a broader, more diverse pool of PVCC students to attain their educational goals of a bachelor's degree from the University of Virginia.

"PVCC helped me get in the mindset of problem solving," said Kidd. My experiences there helped me challenge myself and prepared me for the biomedical engineering major that I'm pursing. I am still in awe that I was selected for this incredible scholarship and sometimes I am still overwhelmed by the fact that I get to attend Mr. Jefferson's university."

Garcia, who is now in the UVA School of Nursing, emphasized the importance of the award. "It is an incredible honor to be named one of the first Piedmont Scholars! This scholarship will help me immensely with covering the cost of my education and transitioning into my role as an RN," she said. "To have the stress of financial burdens lessened is a true blessing."

Garcia has a four-year degree and is a graduate of the PVCC Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program, which she found "more mentally and emotionally challenging than anticipated. I feel as though after completing the ADN program at PVCC, I can do anything. My time at PVCC taught me how to be flexible and that I'm capable of accomplishing what I put my mind to."

The Piedmont Scholars will be honored at a celebratory reception September 23, 2021, at Piedmont Virginia Community College.

To learn more about the Piedmont Scholars Program, visit www.pvcc.edu/transfer/gaa/uva.

About Piedmont Virginia Community College

Established in 1972, Piedmont Virginia Community College is a nonresidential two-year institution of higher education that serves Central Virginia  principally, residents of the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson. PVCC is one of 23 community colleges in Virginia that comprise the Virginia Community College System. PVCC is committed to providing access to a college education for all who can benefit, an opportunity for each student to reach her/his potential and excellence in all programs and services. Visit www.pvcc.edu.

SOURCE Piedmont Virginia Community College

Related Links

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PLYMOUTH, Mich., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Plastipak Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") announced today that it will file its Form 10-Q Equivalent Report for its fiscal quarter ended July 31, 2021 electronically with Wells Fargo National Bank, as Trustee for the holders of its 6.250% Senior Notes due 2025 (the "Senior Notes"), by the close of business on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. The Company is not required by the Indenture for the Senior Notes to file annual, quarterly or periodic reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and therefore does not plan to file these reports with the SEC.

Holders, authorized prospective holders and securities analysts may obtain a copy of the Company's Form 10-Q Equivalent Report by contacting Investor Relations at (734) 455-3600 or by emailing [email protected].

The Company will host an investor teleconference call for holders, authorized prospective holders and securities analysts on September 16, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. ET. Details for the call are available to holders, authorized prospective holders and securities analysts by contacting Investor Relations.

Qualified bondholders and lenders may obtain copies of the Form 10-Q Equivalent Report and details of the investor teleconference call by logging on to the secure bondholder section of the Company's website (www.plastipak.com).

SOURCE Plastipak Holdings, Inc.

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CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Propulsion PR, a full-service media and strategic communications company, today unveiled a comprehensive rebrand as Propulsion Agency. The change reflects the agency's commitment to ensuring its clients receive a blend of all forms of modern communication and media services to propel their stories forward and push the boundaries of traditional public relations.

Propulsion Agency

The agency's new identity is aligned with the company's unrivaled ability to individually tailor services for clients that have proven to be indispensable for positioning brands, especially during unpredictable times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Founded by award-winning journalists Lucas Seiler and Cristina Pfeffer, Propulsion Agency has built and managed customized campaigns spanning media relations and training, internal and external communication, digital marketing, video production, reputation management, message development, as well as public speaking training and speech writing.

These services empowered clients to effectively launch new companies, meet business goals, and communicate their stories through a variety of media and communication strategies, such as media conferences and profile stories in major publications , marketing videos to reach their prospective audiences, internal communication management to address business and messaging initiatives among staff, and more.

"This is not simply an exterior image change, but rather a fundamental evolution to align our company with where the communications industry is heading and with the capabilities our talent continually delivers," said Lucas Seiler, CEO and founder of Propulsion Agency. "Through our journalism experience and track record of providing clients with truly integrated communications campaigns that emphasize video and online presence, we're able to stay ahead of trends and uphold our reputation for nimbleness."

In 2021 alone, Propulsion Agency has launched winning campaigns for vegan brands and organizations across the globe, companies within the design and construction industry, technology, real estate, healthcare, legal, as well as the nonprofit and issue advocacy space.

To learn more about how Propulsion Agency can deliver proven ROI across a wide variety of services, visit www.propulsion.agency .

About Propulsion Agency

Propulsion Agency is a full-service media and communications agency born from journalism executing impactful storytelling to raise voices and build brands. It produces winning campaigns through branding and messaging, media relations, digital marketing, video production, public speaking and speech writing, internal and external communication, and more. It represents some of the biggest names in veganism, design and construction, healthcare, and real estate sectors.

Media Contact:

Lucas Seiler

312-340-8576

[email protected]

SOURCE Propulsion Agency
In a celebration of the global drinks community, Q Mixers and Tales of the Cocktail Foundation are curating an uplifting and informative experience where spirit enthusiasts can gather, learn, and enjoy a cocktail after a challenging year.

Q Mixers will offer a virtual opportunity to connect with and learn from some of the most influential leaders in the industry through their Meet at Tales sessions. Six lucky registrants will be chosen to meet one-on-one for a 15-minute conversation with industry experts, including prominent cocktail creator, Elliott Clark, President and Head Distiller of Widow Jane Distillery, Lisa Wicker, spirits educator, Mary Palac, Director of Deliciousness at Katana Kitten, Masa Urushido, bar owner and TOTCF Board Member, Neal Bodenheimer, cocktail consultant, Shannon Mustipher, spirits educator and author, Tony Abou-Ganim, The Modern Mixologist, and the Founder and CEO of Q Mixers, Jordan Silbert.

Each chosen registrant will also receive a custom cocktail kit developed by Q Mixers and following the event, one participant will be selected to win a one-hour follow-up conversation with their paired industry leader to dive deeper on their individual challenges and goals.

"It's an honor for Q Mixers to join forces with the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation once again after becoming the festival's first-ever official mixer back in 2019. Personally, I have a lot of heart for this event  I attended myself for the first time back when Q was just getting started and it was so inspiring as a young entrepreneur to learn from the Foundation's great minds, said Jordan Silbert, Founder & CEO of Q Mixers. "After an isolating year that posed obstacles for the food and beverage industry, it's even more important today that we come together to share our knowledge, experiences, and explore paths forward as it continues to evolve. Through Meet at Tales and the Mix at Tales Happy Hour Events, Q Mixers invites our community to connect, collaborate, innovate, and, most importantly, enjoy spectacular drinks together again."

To open and extend this special Meet at Tales program to all attendees of the conference, Q Mixers will host a series of Mix at Tales Happy Hour Events offering intimate opportunities to get to know each industry leader, ask questions, and enjoy premium cocktails as a community.

An ever-evolving brand, Q Mixers' partnership with the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is just one of many initiatives America's leading mixer brand has taken on this year. Over the last year, Q Mixers (+70%*) and the mixer category (+24%*) have seen tremendous growth as more people discovered the importance of premium mixers in their drinks. The brand continued this momentum into 2021 with a complete rebrand across multiple consumer touchpoints, a splashy new advertising campaign  The Mixer Your Drink Deserves  and an industry-first partnership adding actor, comedian, hair icon and television host Joel McHale to its executive team as Chief Happy Hour Officer.

"We're thrilled to partner with our friends at Q Mixers as we welcome the premium mixer brand back for another impactful event," said Eileen Wayner, CEO of Tales of the Cocktail Foundation. "As we focus this year's event on the meaning of community, we're excited for Q Mixers to help us connect as an industry and share knowledge and inspiration for our common passion. We're honored to be working alongside the Q Mixers team and can't wait to watch their engaging sessions come to life."

For more information on Q Mixers partnership with the Tales of the Cocktail Foundation see here. For more information on Q Mixers and to find a retailer near you, visit QMixers.com.

* Over the past 52 weeks ending 3/21/21 in MULO + Natural.

About Q Mixers

Q Mixers makes the world's best carbonated mixers. This starts with the highest quality ingredients  no high fructose corn syrup or artificial preservatives. It is the tenet on which the brand was built and one from which we will never waver. Our Tonic Water, Ginger Beer and other flavors are proudly served by thousands of America's best bars and restaurants including the Four Seasons and P.F. Chang's and carried by major retailers in the US including Target, Albertsons, Kroger, Total Wine, Walmart, Whole Foods and Amazon. Q Mixers are available in 11 flavors including Spectacular Tonic, Ginger Beer, Sparkling Grapefruit and the newest Hibiscus Ginger Beer.

For more information, please visit QMixers.com. Social media: @Qmixers

About Tales of the Cocktail Foundation

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is a non-profit organization that educates, advances and supports the global hospitality industry and creates lasting impact in our host communities. Tales of the Cocktail Foundation is the global leader in spirits education and a platform to tackle issues facing the industry. The pillars of the Foundation are to Educate, Advance and Support the hospitality industry through programs that benefit individuals and organizations in the community and to make lasting impact in communities that host our events. For more information on Tales of the Cocktail, please visit talesofthecocktailfoundation.org.

About Tales of the Cocktail

Founded in 2002, Tales of the Cocktail has grown from a small gathering of cocktail lovers into the world's premier cocktail festival. Each year the international spirits industry is welcomed to New Orleans for a week of seminars, tastings, networking events and much more. With 300+ annual events developed specifically for bartenders, distillers and other spirits professionals, Tales of the Cocktail is the industry's annual meeting place for the exchange of new ideas, products and techniques.

SOURCE Q Mixers
LONDON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- QS Quacquarelli Symonds, global business school analysts, released their annual suite of rankings identifying the world's premier study destinations for aspiring future business leaders. The evaluation comprises the QS World University Rankings: Global Full-Time MBA, and a series of specialized high-demand Business Masters Rankings , providing insight to those wishing to undertake a course of study in a career-enhancing qualification in high demand among employers. Stanford GSB is named the world's number-one MBA while Harvard Business School rises from 4th to joint-second, shared with The Wharton School.

QS Global Full-Time MBA Top-20



2022 2021 Stanford GSB USA 1 1 Harvard Business School USA 2= 4 Penn (Wharton) USA 2= 2 HEC Paris France 4 5 MIT (Sloan) USA 5 3 London Business School UK 6 7 INSEAD France 7= 6 IE Business School Spain 7= 9 Columbia Business School USA 9 8 IESE Business School Spain 10 11= UC Berkeley (Haas) USA 11 10 Chicago (Booth) USA 12 11= Oxford (Said) UK 13= 16 Esade Business School Spain 13= 13 UCLA (Anderson) USA 15 15 Northwestern (Kellogg) USA 16 14 Cambridge (Judge) UK 17 17= Yale School of Management USA 18 17= NYU (Stern) USA 19 19 Michigan (Ross) USA 20 20  QS Quacquarelli Symonds 2004-2021 www.TopMBA.com

Continental Europe's best MBA program is offered by HEC Paris (4 th , up from 5 th ).

best MBA program is offered by HEC Paris (4 , up from 5 ). The UK's #1 MBA provider remains London Business School (6 th , up from 7 th ).

(6 , up from 7 ). Spain's IE Business School rises from 9 th to joint-7th and is joined in the top-ten by IESE Business School (10 th , up from 11 th ).

IE Business School rises from 9 to joint-7th and is joined in the top-ten by IESE Business School (10 , up from 11 ). Melbourne Business School (26 th , no change) offers Asia-Pacific's best full-time MBA.

, no change) offers best full-time MBA. Only two Asian full-time MBA are among top-30. National University of Singapore places 28th followed by compatriot Nanyang Technological University (29th).

QS offers five tables in the QS Business Masters Rankings portfolio:

Each of the Business Masters Rankings is compiled according to program performance in five key metrics: Employability, Entrepreneurship and Alumni Outcomes, Return on Investment, Thought Leadership, and Class & Faculty Diversity. ( Methodology )

The full suite of rankings can be found at www.TopUniversities.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1503777/QS_World_University_Rankings_Logo.jpg

SOURCE QS Quacquarelli Symonds

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CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Quad-C Management, Inc., a leading middle market private equity firm, announced that it has recently completed a growth investment in Titan Security Group, one of the largest security companies in North America.

Titan is a leading provider of security staffing and security systems solutions, serving commercial, multi-family residential, industrial, and retail clients throughout the Chicago metropolitan area, Northern Indiana, and Southern Wisconsin. Titan provides security services for many of the premier properties in the Chicagoland area and differentiates itself by providing industry leading service and a unique operational support structure for its security staff.

A family-owned business since its 1994 inception, Titan is led by President and CEO, David S. Pack, who will continue in that capacity.

"We are excited to partner with Quad-C to continue our strong growth at Titan," said Mr. Pack. "We were looking for a partner with a track record of working with owner/operators to invest in growth and build businesses for the future. Their experience with both human capital and tech-enabled services business will provide us with valuable experience and resources to enhance our capabilities for the benefit of our customers and employees."

"Quad-C has evaluated a number of security services companies, and we came away very impressed with Titan's exceptional track record of more than 10 years of consecutive double digit revenue growth and industry leading employee retention," said Tim Billings, a Partner at Quad-C. "The security services market is highly fragmented, and we believe Titan will be a differentiated platform in the space as we look to expand."

"We have been very impressed with Dave and the entire Titan management team," said Jack Walker, a Partner at Quad-C. "We are looking forward to supporting Titan as the company grows both organically and through acquisitions."

Security ProAdvisors LLC represented Titan Security Group in the transaction.

About Titan Security Group

Titan is a leading Chicago-based security solutions provider that delivers results for its clients through flexible, customized security solutions, and superior customer service. Titan's approach combines traditional security staffing with electronic security systems, and security consulting to provide integrated and efficient, customized security solutions from a single source.

Titan launched in 1994 with a vision for a better way to provide security services to the Chicagoland community. Today, Titan is one of the largest security companies in North America, with over 75,000 scheduled hours per week, over 2,300 security staff, and has a track record of 27 consecutive years successfully serving clients across a wide range of industries. Learn more about Titan Security Group at www.titan-security.com.

About Quad-C Management

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Charlottesville, Virginia, Quad-C is a middle market private equity firm focused on investing in well-established business and consumer services, food & beverage and consumer products, healthcare, industrials, specialty distribution and transportation / logistics companies. In its three-decade history, Quad-C has invested over $3.6 billion of capital in more than 70 platform companies. The Quad-C team is committed to partnering with entrepreneurs and management teams to accelerate growth and create long-term value. Learn more about Quad-C at www.quadcmanagement.com.

About Security ProAdvisors LLC

Security ProAdvisors is one of North America's leading brokerage, advisory and consulting firms to the security industry. Founded by Keith Oringer, SPA brings over 30 years of security industry and financial expertise, and a record of successful transactions. For more information about Security ProAdvisors, visit their website at www.SecurityProAdvisors.com

SOURCE Quad-C Management, Inc.

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Canada's largest developer of compliance-grade carbon credits targets global expansion

CALGARY, AB, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Radicle Group Inc. (Radicle), the leading Canadian player in the carbon credit ecosystem, is pleased to announce an investment by TELUS Ventures , Canada's most active corporate venture capital fund, and other investors as part of its debenture financing round.

With operations in Canada, the US, and Brazil, this funding will enable Radicle to enter new markets to help organizations across the globe monetize their environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) efforts. It will also support further development and updates to Radicle's proprietary software to ensure alignment with emerging reporting requirements being demanded by regulators, clients, and their supply chains.

"As the leading Canadian developer of compliance-grade carbon credits, we are committed to making a difference by enabling planet-positive solutions to reduce emissions, balancing people, planet, and profit," said Ed Alfke, CEO of Radicle. "On behalf of Radicle, we are very pleased that TELUS Ventures has made this commitment to work with us. They share our mission of helping organizations across the globe in their ESG efforts."

To date, Radicle has worked with more than 3,000 clients, generating CAD$100M in value through carbon credits; removed six million tonnes of carbon dioxide from our atmosphere; and traded over US$300M in environmental commodities.

"TELUS Ventures is focused on enabling an ecosystem of innovation by partnering with disruptive, market-transforming companies, including those with a focus on sustainability," said Mario Mele, vice president Corporate Strategy, TELUS Ventures. "As we come together to tackle environmental challenges unlike any we have faced before, it's more important than ever that we support those companies making a difference for future generations. With a strong alignment in culture and mission, our investment in Radicle is an opportunity for TELUS as a global leader in social capitalism to advance its commitment to sustainability by supporting organizations possessing strong ESG principles."

Radicle plans to use the funds raised to scale up their operations and expand into new business lines and geographies to capitalize on the extensive growth expected throughout the carbon credit ecosystem.

About TELUS Ventures

As the strategic investment arm of TELUS Corporation (TSX: T,NYSE: TU), TELUS Ventures is one of Canada's most active corporate venture capital funds. TELUS Ventures invests globally in companies from Seed to Pre-IPO with a focus on innovative technologies such as AgTech, HealthTech, Connected Consumer, IoT, AI, and Security to actively drive new solutions across the TELUS ecosystem. Led by a team of experienced operators, investors and executives, the Ventures team is passionate about creating positive social impact through financial tools and has invested in more than 90 companies since inception. For more information please visit: ventures.telus.com .

About Radicle

Radicle helps guide today's progressive companies towards tomorrow's sustainable future. From our early beginnings in Calgary, Canada, when we developed one of the world's first software platforms to measure, qualify, and aggregate greenhouse gas emissions, we've now taken root internationally to leverage data, insights, and technology to safeguard our shared tomorrow. Radicle works with agriculture, energy, forestry, manufacturing, commercial, and financial services to enable planet-positive solutions by increasing efficiency while lowering costs and emissions. We believe that financial and environmental sustainability are two sides of the same coin: balance between the two is possible. Visit radiclebalance.com to learn more.

SOURCE Radicle Group Inc.

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) participated in a virtual briefing with Members of the Biden-Harris Administration on the evacuation and resettlement of our Afghan allies following the end of the Afghanistan War. Mayors spoke with Biden Administration officials about how cities can support resettlement efforts and help the Afghans who stood with the United States during the war. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas, former Delaware Governor Jack Markell, who is serving as the White House Coordinator of the resettlement effort, and Robert Fenton Jr., Senior Response Official of the Unified Coordination Group, outlined the Administration's plans, and the group discussed the needs facing this vulnerable community.

At its recent 89th Annual Meeting, the USCM adopted a policy resolution in support of resettlement efforts, and mayors across America have welcomed Afghan refugees. Both mayors and Biden Administration officials pledged to continue coordinating to ensure that we support the brave Afghans who worked alongside the United States during the two decades we were in Afghanistan.

Mayors participating in the meeting included:

Dayton (OH) Mayor Nan Whaley , USCM President

, USCM President Many others

Additional participants in the meeting included:

Alejandro N. Mayorkas , Secretary of Homeland Security

, Secretary of Homeland Security Jack Markell , White House Operation Allies Welcome Coordinator and Former Delaware Governor

, White House Operation Allies Welcome Coordinator and Former Delaware Governor Robert Fenton Jr. , Senior Response Official of the Unified Coordination Group

About the United States Conference of Mayors -- The U.S. Conference of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of cities with populations of 30,000 or more. There are more than 1,400 such cities in the country today, and each city is represented in the Conference by its chief elected official, the mayor. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.

SOURCE U.S. Conference of Mayors

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ATLANTA, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Rev. Robert Michael Franklin, PhD, president emeritus of Morehouse College in Atlanta and senior advisor to the president of Emory University, has been elected to a five-year term on the board of directors of the CDC Foundation. In this role, Franklin will join other board members to provide guidance and oversight to the CDC Foundation, which is the independent nonprofit created by Congress to mobilize philanthropic and private-sector resources to support the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) critical health protection work.

Franklin holds the James T. and Berta R. Laney Chair in Moral Leadership at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University. In this role Franklin challenges students to explore the concept of moral leadership in the 21st century in different cultures and contexts in the United States and around the world. Franklin serves as a senior advisor to the Emory University president, as well as for Community and Diversity at Emory. He is a former presidential distinguished professor of Social Ethics and a senior fellow at the Center for the Study of Law and Religion, both at Emory. In addition, he was the founding director of Candler School of Theology's Black Church Studies program, which prepares men and women to provide learned, prophetic and compassionate leadership in Black and multiracial churches.

"Robert is an impassioned educator, theologian and leader," said Judy Monroe, MD, president and chief executive officer of the CDC Foundation. "I welcome his experience and value the insights and perspectives he will bring to our board, including his guidance on the path toward health equity for people in the United States and across the globe."

Prior to his time at Emory University, Franklin was director of the religion department at The Chautauqua Institution, president of Morehouse College and president of the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. Franklin was named to the Human Rights Campaign's project council on expanding LGBTQ equality and inclusion efforts at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. He serves on the board of the Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey and the HomeFirst Community Oversight Board in Atlanta. He is a past board member of several civic organizations, including the Jessie Ball DuPont Fund, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Atlanta Falcons Community Advisory Board and Public Broadcasting of Atlanta.

Franklin, who is one of the nation's foremost public theologians, is the author of four books including his latest book titled "Moral Leadership: Integrity, Courage and Imagination" as well as the author of several book chapters and articles.

Franklin earned a B.A. degree from Morehouse College and was a Union Scholar at Durham University in the United Kingdom. He received a Master's in Divinity from Harvard Divinity School and a Doctorate in Divinity from the University of Chicago. He holds honorary degrees from Bethune Cookman University, Ursinus College, Bates College, Hampden-Sydney College, Centre College, University of New England and Swarthmore College.

About the CDC Foundation

The CDC Foundation helps the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) save and improve lives by unleashing the power of collaboration between CDC, philanthropies, corporations, organizations and individuals to protect the health, safety and security of America and the world. The CDC Foundation is the go-to nonprofit authorized by Congress to mobilize philanthropic partners and private-sector resources to support CDC's critical health protection mission. Since 1995, the CDC Foundation has raised over $1.6 billion and launched more than 1,200 programs impacting a variety of health threats from chronic disease conditions including cardiovascular disease and cancer, to infectious diseases like rotavirus and HIV, to emergency responses, including COVID-19 and Ebola. The CDC Foundation managed hundreds of CDC-led programs in the United States and in more than 140 countries last year. Learn more at www.cdcfoundation.org and follow the Foundation on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.

SOURCE CDC Foundation

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Rosewood San Francisco will occupy 15 floors of the 61-story, approximately 1.1-million-square-foot building in the new center of the city. Designed by internationally acclaimed Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects, the 800-foot super-tall building is the last of greater downtown San Francisco's skyscraper developments for the foreseeable future, and one of just three projects with a direct connection to the Salesforce Park via a pedestrian skybridge. In addition to the hotel, the tower will feature incomparable residences, office, retail spaces and an expansive pedestrian realm.

Beyond its prime location, Rosewood San Francisco will offer approximately 180 expertly appointed guestrooms and suites with locally inspired design by Joyce Wang Studio and stunning views of the surrounding city and adjacent park. Amenities will include Asaya, Rosewood's forward-thinking wellness concept, and a fully equipped fitness and movement studio featuring an indoor lap pool. The hotel will further feature a variety of expansive event spaces, a signature indoor-outdoor restaurant, patisserie, living room and the Manor Club, the brand's signature private lounge concept.

"As one of the most dynamic and innovative cities in North America, San Francisco offers an eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, art, technology and adventure, and is an ideal destination for the Rosewood brand," says Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group. "We are thrilled to be a part of this revolutionary new development and look forward to providing our affluential explorers and San Franciscans alike with a stylish and refined new icon to enjoy for years to come."

"Rosewood is an ideal partner for this project and will create a one-of-a-kind destination for those who call the Bay Area home, as well as those who travel there for business and pleasure," says Douglas Metzler, CEO West Region for Hines. "The Rosewood collection represents the pinnacle of luxury hotels, inspired by the culture, history and geography of each locale, and we are thrilled to bring their unique vision to this iconic development in the Transbay District."

Rosewood San Francisco will join Rosewood's two existing California properties including Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park and Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito.

About Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts manages 26 one-of-a-kind luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 15 countries, with 26 new properties under development. Each Rosewood property embraces the brand's A Sense of Place philosophy to reflect the individual location's history, culture and sensibilities. The Rosewood collection includes some of the world's most legendary hotels and resorts, including The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel in New York, Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek in Dallas and Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel in Paris, as well as new classics such as Rosewood Hong Kong. For those who wish to stay a little longer, Rosewood Residences offer a distinct opportunity for ownership or rent in extraordinary destinations within the brand's wide-ranging portfolio.

For more information: rosewoodhotels.com

Connect with us: Facebook Twitter Instagram WeChat @RosewoodHotels

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Media Contacts:





Media Contacts :





North America United Kingdom Kendall Trainer Amelia Strange Nike Communications Bacchus PR Telephone: +1 646 654 3438 Telephone: +44 20 8968 0202 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]



Mainland China Hong Kong SAR Fay Liu Rosetta Hon Activation Group Why Not Asia Telephone: +86 21 2601 8752 Telephone: +852 9090 0360 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]



Thailand and Southeast Asia Japan Nopnarit Lieopanich (Zaadeu) Mayumi Abe Snaith Z Communications Colours PR Telephone: +66 81 444 8444 Telephone: +81 80 3256 0766 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]



Hines Media Contact:

George Lancaster

Hines

713-966-7676

[email protected]



SOURCE Rosewood Hotels & Resorts

Related Links

http://www.rosewoodhotels.com


Highlights:

Infill Drilling - During the first seven months of 2021, a total of 80,632 metres in 176 drill holes have been completed at Las Chispas. This includes a total of 52,035 metres in 141 infill drill holes in the Babi Vista, Splay, and Granaditas veins with approximately 20% of infill holes intersecting grades greater than 1,000 gpt AgEq (see attached Figures):

During the first seven months of 2021, a total of 80,632 metres in 176 drill holes have been completed at Las Chispas. This includes a total of 52,035 metres in 141 infill drill holes in the Babi Vista, Splay, and Granaditas veins with approximately 20% of infill holes intersecting grades greater than 1,000 gpt AgEq (see attached Figures): Confirmation of Targeted Areas  The infill program increased estimated drill density to 25 to 35 metres (from 45 to 50 metres) over a strike length of 1.3 kilometres and successfully confirmed the grades and approximate footprint of Inferred Resources reported in the 2021 Feasibility Study.

The infill program increased estimated drill density to 25 to 35 metres (from 45 to 50 metres) over a strike length of 1.3 kilometres and successfully confirmed the grades and approximate footprint of Inferred Resources reported in the 2021 Feasibility Study.

Delineation of High-Grade "Shoot 201" - Infill drilling confirmed a multi-kilogram per tonne (AgEq basis) zone now named "Shoot 201" in the Splay, which surrounds the previous high-grade results in hole BV20-201, 203 and 207 (see News Release November 16, 2020 ). This zone has now been better defined with 11 additional holes that have an average uncapped, undiluted grade of 30.04 gpt Au and 2,429.4 gpt Ag, or 5,040 gpt AgEq, over an estimated true width ("ETW") of 1.4 metres, within a high-grade footprint of approximately 100 metres by 75 metres. Shoot 201, along with the balance of the Splay and Granaditas, are currently not in the reserves or LOM and will be considered for conversion in an updated study in 2022.

Infill drilling confirmed a multi-kilogram per tonne (AgEq basis) zone now named "Shoot 201" in the Splay, which surrounds the previous high-grade results in hole BV20-201, 203 and 207 (see News Release ). This zone has now been better defined with 11 additional holes that have an average uncapped, undiluted grade of 30.04 gpt Au and 2,429.4 gpt Ag, or 5,040 gpt AgEq, over an estimated true width ("ETW") of 1.4 metres, within a high-grade footprint of approximately 100 metres by 75 metres. Shoot 201, along with the balance of the Splay and Granaditas, are currently not in the reserves or LOM and will be considered for conversion in an updated study in 2022. Expansion Drilling - 16 expansion holes totalling 8,118 metres were completed in the renamed Babi Vista FW Zone (multiple veins) and the Babicanora Norte HW Vein ( see attached Figures );

16 expansion holes totalling 8,118 metres were completed in the renamed Babi Vista FW Zone (multiple veins) and the Babicanora Norte HW Vein ( ); Babi Vista FW Vein Becomes Babi Vista FW Zone - A total of 18 new intercepts having an ETW of 0.57 metres grading 5.54 gpt Au and 680.2 gpt Ag, or 1,162 gpt AgEq have expanded the Babi Vista FW Vein, which is now renamed the Babi Vista FW Zone to incorporate the presence of several new sub-parallel and semi-continuous veins between the Splay and Babicanora Norte veins.

A total of 18 new intercepts having an ETW of 0.57 metres grading 5.54 gpt Au and 680.2 gpt Ag, or 1,162 gpt AgEq have expanded the Babi Vista FW Vein, which is now renamed the Babi Vista FW Zone to incorporate the presence of several new sub-parallel and semi-continuous veins between the Splay and Babicanora Norte veins.

Babicanora Norte HW Vein  This vein has been expanded by approximately 300 metres along strike (see 2021 Feasibility Study). Ten new intercepts have an ETW of 0.40 metres grading 2.0 gpt Au and 260 gpt Ag, or 434 gpt AgEq.

This vein has been expanded by approximately 300 metres along strike (see 2021 Feasibility Study). Ten new intercepts have an ETW of 0.40 metres grading 2.0 gpt Au and 260 gpt Ag, or 434 gpt AgEq. H2, 2021 Focus on Infill, Expansion and Exploration  With infill drilling complete on Babi Vista, Splay, and Granaditas, the Company is working to complete other infill drilling on Babicanora Norte NW while transitioning to expansion and new exploration drilling within the Babicanora Area.

N. Eric Fier, CPG, P.Eng, and CEO, remarked, "SilverCrest's strategy for its infill drilling program is to efficiently use our capital to optimize the LOM through increasing confidence in high-grade Inferred Resource veins proximal to planned underground infrastructure. The infill program has confirmed the presence and continuity of multi-kilogram per tonne silver equivalent grades within the footprints that helped define the veins in the 2021 Feasibility Study. The program also confirmed discovery of Shoot 201, located in the Splay, which shows some of the highest precious metal grades at the project and is not yet considered in the Las Chispas Mineral Reserve. We remain focused on execution of the Las Chispas Project construction and underground mine development and will evaluate the potential opportunity for in-vein drifting in the Splay and Shoot 201 to complete further technical evaluation. With the infill program nearing completion, the drilling focus will shift towards expansion and grass roots exploration work on the over 30 veins on the Las Chispas property that remain undrilled or are not yet fully tested."

The Company's focus for the infill drill program to date was to target the 15.4 Moz AgEq Inferred Resources in the Babi Vista, Splay and Granaditas veins. At an average grade of greater than 1,500 gpt AgEq (uncapped, undiluted), these ounces have a grade more than 70% higher than the average grade of the 2021 Feasibility Study Mineral Reserve (94.7 Moz AgEq at an average grade of 879 gpt AgEq, capped and diluted). The infill drilling prioritized drilling ounces near existing infrastructure which have the potential to further de-risk and improve the current mine plan.

Infill drilling has shown that high-grade footprints (grading >150 gpt AgEq) for the infilled veins are similar to previous footprints presented in the 2021 Feasibility Study. As mentioned in a news release dated April 15, 2021, this combined footprint for Babi Vista, Splay, and Granaditas, including Mineral Resources and exploration high-grade intercepts, can be traced for an estimated 1.3 kilometres of strike length.

Infill drilling results show similar to improved grades for the Splay and Granaditas veins relative to the average 2021 Feasibility Study Inferred Resource silver equivalent grades:

For the Splay, the 2021 Feasibility Study Inferred Resource contains 13.9 Moz AgEq at an average grade (capped, undiluted) of 13.00 gpt Au and 909.4 gpt Ag, or 2,039 gpt AgEq with an ETW of 1.27 metres. Comparatively, infill holes included in this release for this vein average (uncapped, undiluted) 15.38 gpt Au and 1,282.8 gpt Ag, or 2,619 gpt AgEq with ETW of 1.0 metres.

For Granaditas, the 2021 Feasibility Study Inferred Resource contains 913 koz AgEq at an average grade (capped, undiluted) of 4.11 gpt Au and 295.2 gpt Ag, or 653 gpt AgEq with ETW of 0.56 metres. Comparatively, infill holes reported in this release for this vein average (uncapped, undiluted) 3.77 gpt Au and 466.65 gpt Ag, or 794 gpt AgEq with ETW of 1.10 metres.

A total of 18 new intercepts having an ETW of 0.57 metres grading 5.54 gpt Au and 680.2 gpt Ag, or 1,162 gpt AgEq have expanded the Babicanora Vista FW Vein, which is now renamed to the Babicanora Vista FW Zone in order to incorporate the presence of several new sub-parallel and semi-continuous veins between Babi Vista and Babicanora Norte veins. The Babicanora Vista FW Zone is comprised of five smaller shoots (grading >150 gpt AgEq) within an overall corridor of approximately 600 metres along strike and 150 metres across strike ( see attached Figures ). Additionally, the southeastern strike extension of the Babicanora Norte HW Vein has been supported by 10 vein intercepts with an ETW of 0.43 metres grading 2.00 gpt Au and 260.0 gpt Ag, or 434 gpt AgEq and a footprint (grading >150 gpt AgEq) of approximately 400 metres along strike and 100 metres high. The most significant drill hole intercepts for this release are (using ETW):

Infill hole BV21-307; Babi Vista  2.96 metres grading 17.13 gpt Au and 1,830.4 gpt Ag, or 3,319 gpt AgEq.

Infill hole BV21-308; Splay  3.55 metres grading 15.83 gpt Au and 1,439.8 gpt Ag, or 2,815 gpt AgEq.

Expansion hole BAN21-340; Babi Vista FW Zone  0.41 metres grading 34.40 gpt Au and 4,260.0 gpt Ag, or 7,249 gpt AgEq.

Drill intercept highlights from the infill program that are reported in this release are tabulated below. All grades are reported as uncapped and undiluted. Note that the same drill hole number may be shown for different veins. This is due to the same hole intercepting multiple veins.

Babi Vista Splay Vein (Infill) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BV20-207** 315.42 315.95 0.53 0.42 10.30 1,015.0 1,910 BV21-295 261.48 262.00 0.52 0.42 1.80 316.0 472 BV21-296 384.46 385.24 0.78 0.62 1.00 104.0 191 BV21-299 402.37 402.90 0.53 0.42 4.08 349.0 704 BV21-308 364.92 369.36 4.44 3.55 15.83 1,439.8 2,815 Includes 367.55 368.09 0.54 0.43 93.60 7,750.0 15,884 BV21-313 401.22 401.74 0.52 0.42 162.00 11,797.0 25,875 BV21-315 422.90 424.00 1.10 0.88 1.31 100.0 214 BV21-317 314.45 315.05 0.60 0.48 11.80 1,390.0 2,415 BV21-319 352.33 354.28 1.95 1.56 3.97 287.6 632 BV21-324 345.73 346.82 1.09 0.87 4.90 432.2 858 Weighted Average 1.21 0.97 15.38 1,282.8 2,619

Babi Vista Main Vein (Infill and Expansion) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BV21-300 434.20 434.88 0.68 0.54 2.16 227.0 415 BV21-307 392.45 396.15 3.70 2.96 17.13 1,830.4 3,319 Includes 393.65 394.86 1.21 0.97 42.30 4,490.0 8,166 BV21-316 419.00 420.05 1.05 0.84 6.71 8.0 591 BV21-327 383.60 384.10 0.50 0.40 7.03 609.0 1,220 BV21-331 376.73 377.95 1.22 0.98 19.47 1,618.0 3,310 BV21-332 340.00 340.68 0.68 0.54 1.70 129.0 277 BV21-334 406.65 407.23 0.58 0.46 6.88 546.0 1,144 BV21-337 322.16 322.66 0.50 0.40 4.10 336.0 692 BV21-340 337.00 337.50 0.50 0.40 1.12 126.0 223 BAN21-337 199.55 200.35 0.80 0.64 2.95 338.0 594 Weighted Average 1.02 0.82 10.70 991.1 1,921

Babi Vista FW Zone (Infill and Discovery) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BAN21-335 277.00 277.56 0.56 0.45 20.70 3,740.0 5,539 BAN21-337 359.48 360.18 0.70 0.56 0.91 87.4 166 BAN21-337 316.73 317.87 1.14 0.91 3.08 287.0 555 BAN21-340 211.02 211.53 0.51 0.41 34.40 4,260.0 7,249 BAN21-340 226.50 227.00 0.50 0.40 4.12 448.0 806 BAN21-343 210.58 211.13 0.55 0.44 1.09 62.8 158 BAN21-343 281.35 283.45 2.10 1.68 4.77 432.9 847 Includes 281.35 281.90 0.55 0.44 15.55 1,385.0 2,736 BAN21-347 217.81 218.33 0.52 0.42 2.10 216.0 398 BAN21-350 237.70 238.44 0.74 0.59 2.35 206.0 410 BV21-299 328.25 328.80 0.55 0.44 2.63 97.0 326 BV21-302 334.10 334.62 0.52 0.42 3.54 315.0 623 BV21-309 346.21 347.00 0.79 0.63 0.44 112.0 150 BV21-311 280.30 280.90 0.60 0.48 3.50 465.0 769 BV21-319 263.40 263.92 0.52 0.42 8.00 1,700.0 2,395 BV21-325 253.07 253.77 0.70 0.56 5.81 503.0 1,008 BV21-332 226.87 227.40 0.53 0.42 1.12 161.0 258 BV21-334 349.95 350.58 0.63 0.50 8.41 792.0 1,523 BV21-338 327.72 328.32 0.60 0.48 3.40 311.0 606 Weighted Average 0.71 0.57 5.54 680.2 1,162

Babicanora Norte HW Vein (Expansion) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BAN21-334 402.80 403.30 0.50 0.40 2.43 249.0 460 BAN21-335 470.54 471.12 0.58 0.46 5.12 423.0 868 BAN21-340 381.37 381.95 0.58 0.46 2.94 641.0 896 BAN21-347 381.95 382.42 0.47 0.38 0.13 278.0 289 BAN21-349 356.28 356.93 0.65 0.52 0.60 112.0 164 BAN21-350 373.22 373.81 0.59 0.47 3.19 321.0 598 BAN21-351 387.25 387.75 0.50 0.40 1.09 95.0 190 BAN21-352 401.55 402.05 0.50 0.40 1.78 176.0 331 BAN21-353 401.60 402.10 0.50 0.40 0.97 90.3 175 BV21-330 446.73 447.30 0.57 0.46 1.33 174.0 290 Weighted Average 0.54 0.43 2.00 260.0 434

Granaditas (Infill) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BV20-218 119.60 120.44 0.84 0.67 1.66 211.0 355 BV21-297 195.80 197.40 1.60 1.28 1.37 227.0 346 BV21-335 222.04 226.16 4.12 3.30 6.62 732.1 1,307 Includes 223.75 224.45 0.70 0.56 32.10 3,280.0 6,069 GR21-30 285.72 286.45 0.73 0.58 4.52 387.0 779 GR21-33 268.16 268.66 0.50 0.40 3.18 344.0 620 GR21-39 132.90 135.26 2.36 1.89 3.35 539.1 829 Includes 134.60 135.26 0.66 0.53 5.98 883.0 1,402 GR21-44 316.70 317.70 1.00 0.80 0.58 122.0 172 GR21-49 231.89 232.48 0.59 0.47 0.77 105.0 171 GR21-51 254.00 254.70 0.70 0.56 3.22 482.0 761 Weighted Average 1.38 1.10 3.77 466.6 794

Unnamed Vein Intercepts (Exploration) Hole ID From (m) To (m) Drilled

Intercept

(m)

Approx.

True

Thickness

(m)

Au gpt Ag gpt AgEq gpt* BAN21-334 453.40 453.90 0.50 0.40 11.70 2,230.0 3,247 BAN21-340 243.06 243.58 0.52 0.42 1.76 263.0 416 BV21-308 357.55 358.10 0.55 0.44 2.79 351.0 593 BV21-313 467.97 468.52 0.55 0.44 2.63 207.0 436 BV21-331 124.42 124.90 0.48 0.38 1.31 169.0 283 GR21-30 192.76 193.33 0.57 0.46 1.37 139.0 258 GR21-31 247.05 247.70 0.65 0.52 13.40 26.8 1,191 GR21-38 197.58 198.10 0.52 0.42 2.41 260.0 469 GR21-53 224.90 225.57 0.67 0.54 2.17 273.0 462 GR21-53 225.57 226.07 0.50 0.40 0.78 120.0 188

Notes:

All numbers are rounded.

Cut-off grade (COG) of 150 gpt AgEq is applied with a minimum true width of 0.5 metres.

The 150 gpt AgEq COG is an exploration threshold and is consistent with the 2021 Feasibility Study. Grades have not yet been subjected to grade capping, dilution and other modifying factors that will be required for estimation of mineral resources and reserves.

ETW is an estimated 80% of drilled intercept width,

* AgEq is based on the 2021 Feasibility Study Mineral Resource and Reserve gold to silver ratio of 86.9:1 calculated using US$1,410/oz Au and US$16.60/oz Ag, with average metallurgical recoveries of 96% Au and 94% Ag.

** The intercept in hole BV20-207 that was reported in the Splay vein in the 2021 Feasibility Study has been reinterpreted as part of the Babicanora Vista FW Zone. This new reported intercept represents the previously unreported composite grade for this hole within the Splay vein.

All assays were completed by ALS Chemex in Hermosillo, Mexico, and North Vancouver, BC, Canada.

The drill results also include holes: BV21-290 to BV21-294, BV21-298, BV21-299, BV21-301, BV21-303 to BV21-306, BV21-310, BV21-312, BV21-314, BV21-318, BV21-320 to BV21-323 BV21-326, BV21-328, BV21-329, BV21-333, BV21-336, BV21-339 which intersected veining but were below the Company's cutoff grade of 150 gpt AgEq.

Unnamed vein intercepts, as stated in above table, represent blind (not present at surface) veins that were intersected while drilling between or below Babi Vista, Splay, Granaditas and Babicanora Norte veins. Further drilling may show vein or zone continuity in multiple holes to suggest a new discovery.

With the planned 2021 infill drilling nearing completion, a total of 11 drills are currently active at Las Chispas in the Babicanora Area including eight (8) surface drills and three (3) underground drills. SilverCrest's 2021 Company-wide exploration program budget is US$42 million (see News Release dated February 24, 2021). During the first seven months of 2021, SilverCrest has incurred an estimated $14 million for the Company's drilling programs at Las Chispas and Picacho. The focus of surface drilling efforts at Las Chispas will transition from infill to expansion and new exploration targets within the Babicanora area. Once infill drilling is completed in Q4, 2021, the technical team will begin to evaluate the work necessary to potentially add these ounces into an updated mineral reserve and LOM in 2022.

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is N. Eric Fier, CPG, P.Eng, and CEO for SilverCrest, who has reviewed and approved its contents.

ABOUT SILVERCREST METALS INC.

SilverCrest is a Canadian precious metals exploration and development company headquartered in Vancouver, BC, that is focused on new discoveries, value-added acquisitions and targeting production in Mexico's historic precious metal districts. The Company's top priority is on the high-grade, historic Las Chispas mining district in Sonora, Mexico, where it has completed a feasibility study on the Las Chispas Project and is proceeding with mine construction. Start-up of production at the Las Chispas Mine is targeted for mid-2022. SilverCrest is the first company to successfully drill-test the historic Las Chispas Property resulting in numerous high-grade precious metal discoveries. The Company is led by a proven management team in all aspects of the precious metal mining sector, including taking projects through discovery, finance, on time and on budget construction, and production.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. These include, without limitation, statements with respect to: the strategic plans, timing and expectations for the Company's exploration programs at the Las Chispas Project and the start up of production at the Las Chispas Mine by mid-2022. Such forward looking statements or information are based on a number of assumptions, which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things: impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the reliability of mineralization estimates, mining and development costs the conditions in general economic and financial markets; availability of skilled labour; timing and amount of expenditures related to rehabilitation and drilling programs; and effects of regulation by governmental agencies. The actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of risk factors including: uncertainty as to the impact and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic; the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general market and industry conditions. Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

N. Eric Fier, CPG, P.Eng

Chief Executive Officer

SilverCrest Metals Inc.



SOURCE SilverCrest Metals Inc.

Related Links

www.silvercrestmetals.com


DUNDEE HILLS, Ore., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sokol Blosser Winery, one of the Willamette Valley's pioneering wineries celebrating 50 years in 2021, is adding to its breakthrough line box wines with two new 1.5-liter boxes of Evolution Chardonnay and Evolution Big Time Red.

Evolution Willamette Valley Chardonnay

"When we launched our first two Evolution box wines in mid-2020, they were met with huge enthusiasm," says Sokol Blosser CEO Alison Sokol Blosser. "Consumers are loving box wines because of the ease of drinkability and quality has gone up in recent years. So far, we're still the only winery in Oregon producing super-premium wine in boxes and distributing nationally. We're excited about adding Chardonnay and Big Time Red to the mix!"

Evolution 2020 Chardonnay is 100 percent Chardonnay from the Willamette Valley. Each 1.5-liter box  the equivalent of two 750-ml bottles - has an SRP of $28. Evolution 2020 Big Time Red is a blend of Syrah, Sangiovese, Montepulciano and the secret ingredient: a touch of Evolution Lucky No. 9 White! Big Time Red is American-appellated, with grapes coming from Oregon and Washington and an SRP of $21.

A New Look for the New Boxes

The two new box wines also mark an updated package design for all four Evolution box wines. The boxes feature a "by Sokol Blosser" tagline beneath the bold Evolution brand name, as well as an "Oregon" icon and reference to Sokol Blosser's B Corp status. There also is a "gluten-free" indication on each box.

"We acted fast last year with the first two boxes and this time around, we were able to add some great new design elements to the boxes," added Alison Sokol Blosser. "The Evolution brand is all about enjoying great wine with friends and having fun, so the box design and labeling gives customers the information they want with a lot of visual appeal. We can't wait for people to see these beauties on store shelves this fall!"

All of the Evolution 1.5L box wines fill a growing consumer demand for great quality wines in convenient and accessible formats. "These are the same high-quality wines that consumers know and love in glass bottles," says Sokol Blosser Winemaker Alex Sokol Blosser. "Putting them in the bag-in-box package helps them stay fresh for up to 30 days  if people don't polish them off before then," added Sokol Blosser.

Evolution Box Wines Now Packaged in Oregon

Sokol Blosser worked with their bottling partner in Oregon to make it possible to package the wines locally. This marks the first bag-in-box packaging capability in Oregon and Sokol Blosser invites other wineries to join in!

"Sustainability has been a priority for us for 50 years," commented Alison Sokol Blosser. "Box wines have a smaller carbon footprint than bottles, making them a very sustainable option for eco-conscious consumers. We hope other Oregon wineries are inspired to jump on the box wine train with us now that bag-in-box packaging is available locally."

The new Evolution Chardonnay and Big Time Red box wines are expected to reach store shelves across the country by November, in time for the holiday season. The new box wines joined Evolution Lucky No. 9 White (Riesling, Pinot Gris, Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscat Canelli, Chardonnay and Gewurtztraminer), with an SRP of $21 and Evolution 2020 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir with an SRP of $28. All four Evolution box wines will be in the newly designed boxes.

About Evolution & Sokol Blosser Winery

Evolution, one of the Willamette Valley's most evolutionary wine brands, was created by Susan Sokol Blosser in 1998, as she searched for a white wine that was light and bright and right for the spicy, savory flavors of the Asian Fusion food trend of the day. That wine was Evolution Lucky No 9 White Blend, a magical mix of nine varietals which is still a fan favorite. Since then, Evolution has evolved (pun intended!) to include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, a red blend and several sparkling wines. Evolution is part of the Sokol Blosser family of wines, based in Dundee, Oregon. Sokol Blosser is a certified B Corp (since 2015) and is the only winery in the U.S. to have received three "Best for the World" awards from B Corp in 2019 and 2021. A multi-generational family business and now under the stewardship of siblings Alison Sokol Blosser (CEO) and Alex Sokol Blosser (Winemaker)), Sokol Blosser marks its 50th anniversary in 2021. For more information, please visit EvolutionWine.com or SokolBlosser.com.

Contact: Liz Barrett

[email protected]

(312) 446-6945

SOURCE Sokol Blosser

Related Links

http://SokolBlosser.com


HEYBURN, Idaho, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Double L, a prominent manufacturer of farm equipment in the Intermountain West, announced today it has formally concluded its ownership and relationship with the company's prior management team and Board of Directors. SRM Holding, comprised of Teton Management Group and Snake River Manufacturing, has completed the buyout of Double L's former owners, including the Hunsaker Group. Wayne Powell, SRM Holding's Chairman of the Board, formally thanked the Idaho Legacy Group for its ability to bring together the group of investors that closed on the initial Double L acquisition in March 2021.

The SRM Board of Directors has appointed Grant R. Flaharty as Double L's new Chief Executive Officer. Flaharty joined the company on June 1 and, since then, has brought rapid positive change and structure to its team. Flaharty has more than 20 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, splitting that background evenly between high and low environments. His expertise extends to operations, sales and marketing, product management, and implementation of ERP systems. Flaharty also has a successful history with turnarounds and growth companies with engineered technology.

The Double L CEO has already installed a new management team in Idaho. "We are looking forward to growing with our partners, customers, and full supply chain in the coming years," Flaharty said.

SRM Holdings is aggressively pursuing growth acquisitions and expects to make announcements about future growth soon. "Grant's appointment by SRM Holdings' board allows us to focus on future growth in both the agricultural and non-agricultural markets," Powell said.

About Double L

Founded in 1975, Double L provides a wide variety of agricultural solutions to the U.S. potato farming industry, including farming equipment, product handling, commodity transport, storage solutions, and waterless chemical application. For more information, please visit www.doublelglobal.com.

Media inquiries can be sent to

[email protected]

(208) 438-5592

SOURCE Double L

Related Links

https://www.doublelglobal.com


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BudPop, a Los Angeles-based company, is one of the leading brands in the world of hemp products today. The company is new, but the team has worked hard to gain popularity. Their premium quality products have helped them knock their competition out of the picture. They have launched the strongest Delta-8 flowers, and this product is no different in terms of quality.

Cookies Delta-8 THC Infused Hemp Flower Northern Lights Delta-8 THC Infused Hemp Flower

BudPop Delta-8 THC Infused Hemp Flower offers strong effects, but it doesn't lead to anxiety and is free from many other side effects linked with Delta-9. This product is designed to help users turn on the relaxation mode and unwind any tension they have. Users can expect a strong high after using this product.

The company has launched two flavors, and both of them are equally popular among customers. The Northern Lights variant offers a sweet aroma with an earthy flavor, and the Cookies variant has a nutty aroma with hints of sweet diesel. Customers can choose the size variant that fits their needs. First-time users can go for a smaller pack to test the quality of the product.

Customers can check third-party lab test reports on BudPop's official website if they have second thoughts about the quality of the product. Their hemp is grown organically, and they don't hide anything from customers. They also allow visitors to take a quiz and find out which Delta-8 product is best for them. The brand offers fast shipping, and all orders are processed within 48 hours; however, it can take longer if the order is placed on weekends.

BudPop Delta-8 Flower can be purchased on the brand's official website, and users can expect appealing offers. Regular users can get heavy discounts by opting for the subscription plan offered by the company. Those who want to try both flavors together can go for a combo pack and save money. Customers don't have to worry about the quality of the product while making the purchase, as the company offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Since BudPop doesn't work with any unreliable third-party service providers, buyers can make payments safely.

Danny D. says, "This is my first BudPop product, and I am happy with the experience. Quality is amazing, and the earthy flavor makes things even better."

David L. Stull says, "I love this product. It gives me a strong high, but the experience is smooth every time. Will try the Northern Lights variant next."

Alexander L. says, "I would like to thank BudPop for coming up with such an awesome product. I am almost finished with my first unit, and I will definitely order more units in the future.

BudPop is a reliable brand, and its products are known for their quality. Their products don't contain unnecessary fillers and chemicals, and they are safe to use. Moreover, their products are vegan, and they offer complete transparency to customers. They have worked hard to reach this point, and they have the potential to become the number one company in the Delta-8 industry.

Contact:

Shawn King

+998847637

[email protected]

SOURCE Budpop.com
This year, in an effort to help promote Taipei's entrepreneurial resources, the Taipei City Government collaborated with EVERIII Consulting and curated the Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub (TEH) project. The project aims to help foreign innovators to soft land in Taipei through summits, educational bootcamps, online and offline networking sessions and events, all hosted in Taipei startup bases. The project is open to and welcomes all startups interested in the Taipei market.

From September 16th to 17th, TEH will be hosting a two-day FinTech and Smart Retail-focused Taipei Innovation Summit. The summit brings together international startups and multinational corporations to discuss the future of emerging technologies in Taipei. This summit includes keynote speeches, fireside chats, and mentor matchmaking. The morning will focus on an online forum with two keynote speakers from multinational corporations, followed by a panel discussion with both corporate and startup panelists. The afternoon will focus on mentor matchmaking between pre-screened startups and summit speakers or TEH mentors.

On FinTech, corporate speakers from Cathay Financial Holdings Digital, Data, and Technology (DDT) Center and startup companies such as FinaText will share on the future of FinTech and how traditional businesses can better prepare themselves with these tools. On Smart Retail, corporates such as Kuo Brothers, Ally Logistic Property (ALP) and startups in the field will discuss their thoughts on how innovation is revolutionizing traditional retail and how data can help improve business performances.

Innovation Summit acts as the pre-event for the upcoming in-depth FinTech and Electric Vehicle (EV) automotive-focused Taipei Soft Landing Bootcamp which will cover term sheet, pitch training, and focus group to help attending startups test their models. The bootcamp will also be followed by a Demo Day in which startups get to pitch to potential investors. The summit is sign-up only, so fill out the form now to secure your seats.

Follow TEH's Facebook Fan Page to receive the latest updates on startup programs, incentives, and market trends within Taipei.

SOURCE Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub
In attendance were His Excellency, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Haiti, Ariel Henry, as well as the Honorable Ambassador to Haiti from Taiwan, Richard Ku. Tzu Chi Haiti volunteers and Tzu Chi's Haiti Earthquake Response Team, which includes members from New York and California, were also present.

The event acknowledged donations of 25 tons of humanitarian aid from the Taiwanese government, Tzu Chi, and the Taiwan Red Cross, including (but not limited to) oxygen concentrators, masks, protective suits, sleeping bags, dry rations, tents, tarpaulins, and medical kits. Some of these items will be distributed by Tzu Chi in Les Cayes as early as September 8, with other distributions slated to follow.

Accepting these donations on behalf of the people of Haiti, Prime Minister Ariel Henry expressed his gratitude: "Thank you so much. I know that Taiwan's people came again for this disaster [which] happened in August. We really appreciate it, and I hope they continue to support us."

Addressing security issues in terms of relief materials safely reaching the south from Port-au-Prince, he offered Tzu Chi volunteers reassurance: "I encourage Taiwan's people to work closely with civil protection and our national police. I know it's difficult in this time to travel to Les Cayes because the road is dangerous. My government will make sure you have all our support."

Also donating relief materials on behalf of the government of Taiwan, Ambassador Ku shared the depth of Taiwan's commitment to its friend and close ally, Haiti: "Taiwanese people have big hearts. [They are] always eager to help when they hear people get affected by natural disaster. Today, this donation ceremony is showing the great relationship between Taiwan and Haiti, and lets Haitian people know they are not alone."

He also lauded Tzu Chi's humanitarian efforts: "During critical situations, Tzu Chi is always the first to arrive. Additionally, Tzu Chi has been in Haiti for a long time and has gained trust from the locals, creating a very positive energy for the embassy to work with. We hope to use this positive energy to let our Haitian friends know, Taiwan has a friendly team in Haiti, ready to support with the warmest assistance at any time."

Tzu Chi's footprints of aid in Haiti began in 1998. Over the past decade, Tzu Chi has rebuilt four schools destroyed in the 2010 Haiti Earthquake, provided regular distributions of rice and essentials to impoverished families, and established a campus warehouse to store and organize relief supplies.

Learn more about our current efforts in Haiti at tzuchi.us/haiti. Then, make a contribution to the fundraiser, "Pathway to Hope: 2021 Haiti Earthquake Relief," via

Website: donate.tzuchi.us/haiti

Facebook: facebook.com/TzuChiUSA

Mobile App: download Tzu Chi Connect for Android & iOS

for Android & iOS Check: Payable to " Tzu Chi '' and mailed to the Tzu Chi Chapter nearest you. Visit tzuchi.us/offices to see the full list.

ABOUT TZU CHI USA

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation, also known as Tzu Chi USA, is a global non-profit humanitarian organization founded in 1966 by a Buddhist nun named Dharma Master Cheng Yen in Taiwan. Its missions of medicine, charity, education, and humanistic culture have brought relief to 126 countries and counting. In 1989, Tzu Chi USA was established and now has 62 offices across the US. The heart of Tzu Chi is embedded in its name: in Chinese, "tzu" means compassion and "chi," relief.

Media Liaison: Anik Ghose

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Tzu Chi USA

Related Links

http://www.tzuchi.us/haiti


NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C. is proud to announce that the firm has reopened its physical law offices, including an expanded Manhattan office space located at 250 West 57th Street New York, New York. The Firm proudly welcomes back all of its fully vaccinated attorneys and staff. The return to work coincides with the opening of a newly acquired, roughly 2000-square-foot, Workers' Compensation suite, located at Suite 432, adjacent to its main office at Suite 401. While the new suite will be used primarily as the home for the Firm's Workers' Compensation Department, it also provides another conference room for depositions and meetings.

The Firm made painstaking efforts to reopen in a safe and careful manner. In light of the unique circumstances posed by the coronavirus (COVID-19), the firm has implemented several health and safety precautions to prioritize a safe work environment as well as mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Steps taken to address the risks of working in a close-contact environment include professionally cleaning and disinfecting the office space; purchasing KN95 masks and personal hand sanitizer bottles for distribution to all employees; installing UV air cleaning units and new air filters to reduce the flow of irritants within the office space; and installing plexiglass barriers at reception and shared workspaces. The Perecman Firm is proud to announce that its in-office staff is 100% fully vaccinated and is aware of the ever-changing nature of the threat posed by the virus. Accordingly, the entire staff signed a pledge to abide by all CDC recommended behaviors, including wearing masks, regularly taking temperatures and keeping a safe social distance from others.

"Our deliberate and careful approach to reopening our expanded office space allows us to drive a path forward for our clients and attorneys with multiple layers of safety precautions," said David Perecman, Founder and Lead Trial Attorney at The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C. "The new annex will allow us to better serve our New York City workers' compensation clients and also help to represent more individuals in these matters throughout the five boroughs. Attorney Edward Guldi's experience and extensive knowledge of workers' compensation claim resolution will continue to lead the growth of our firm's workers' compensation practice."

The reopening of the Perecman Firm, along with the unveiling of its new Workers' Compensation Suite, marks a new era in the Firm's history as it continues to successfully uphold the stellar reputation it has as being a Champion of Justice for injured workers and accident victims everywhere.

The Perecman Firm has full-service personal injury law offices in New York, New York, and Jericho, New York.

For more information, visit www.perecman.com .

About The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C.

Founded in 1983 by David Perecman, The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C. is a full-service personal injury law firm with offices in New York, New York, and Jericho, Long Island. The firm's attorneys concentrate their legal practices in all aspects of personal injury, including construction accidents, premises liability, motor vehicle accidents, wrongful death and civil rights matters, as well as workers' compensation and Social Security Disability. Recognized by U.S. News for the past ten consecutive years as one of the Best Law Firms in America for Plaintiff's Personal Injury in New York, the Perecman team is distinguished among their peers for their professionalism and knowledge. The firm's consistent and notable results garnered attention from nationally-recognized organizations, including Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers, which named David Perecman a 2022 "Lawyer of the Year" in Personal Injury Litigation  Plaintiffs. The firm and its attorneys have recovered more than half a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements on their clients' behalf. For more information, visit www.perecman.com .

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Contact: Candice Votke

[email protected] / 516.640.8197

SOURCE The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C.

Related Links

https://www.perecman.com


Valens will manufacture and distribute CBD oil for Fire & Flower's wellness focused CBD private label brand, Revity CBD

KELOWNA, BC, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - The Valens Company Inc. (TSX: VLNS) (OTCQX: VLNCF) (the "Company" or "The Valens Company"), a leading manufacturer of cannabis products, today announced a white label partnership with Fire & Flower Holdings Corp . ("Fire & Flower") (TSX: FAF) (OTCQX: FFLWF), a leading, technology-powered, cannabis retailer with over 90 corporate-owned stores in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon Territory. Under the terms of the agreement, Valens will manufacture Fire & Flower's Revity CBD oil for distribution in Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan with the potential to expand into additional provincial and territorial markets where permitted and agreed.

Tyler Robson, Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder and Chair of The Valens Company, said, "Fire & Flower is one of the leading cannabis retailers in Canada with a wide reach in this rapidly growing market. We admire their focus on consumer education and best-in-class retailing and are proud to partner with them for the first time to get high-quality wellness-focused products in the hands of Canadian consumers. This strategic relationship allows us to strengthen and expand our wellness-focused manufacturing portfolio and provides the opportunity to further our partnership with one of the largest cannabis retailers in the country."

Revity CBD oil will be formulated with Valens' proprietary processing methods to remove impurities and bring distinct cannabinoids to the forefront of the consumer experience. Each product includes an integrated dispenser to ensure consistency with each use. The product focus of the Revity CBD line has been derived from key consumer insights in product formulation, target consumer segments, price and format in the Hifyre Digital Retail and Analytics Platform.

Trevor Fencott, Chief Executive Officer and President of Fire & Flower, added, "We are proud to introduce our Revity CBD Oil in partnership with Valens and are confident that they will meet the experience and quality expectations of Canadian consumers. Valens' proven manufacturing excellence and experience producing high-quality wellness products made them a clear choice to help us continue to supply the evolving CBD market in Canada."

At Valens, it's Personal.

About The Valens Company

The Valens Company is a leading manufacturer of cannabis products with a mission to bring the benefits of cannabis to the world. The Company provides proprietary cannabis processing services, in addition to best-in-class product development, manufacturing, and commercialization of cannabis consumer packaged goods. The Valens Company's high-quality products are formulated for the medical, health and wellness, and recreational consumer segments, and are offered across all cannabis product categories with a focus on quality and innovation. The Company also manufactures, distributes, and sells a wide range of CBD products in the United States through its subsidiary Green Roads, and distributes medicinal cannabis products to Australia through its subsidiary Valens Australia. In partnership with brand houses, consumer packaged goods companies and licensed cannabis producers around the globe, the Company continues to grow its diverse product portfolio in alignment with evolving cannabis consumer preferences in key markets. Through Valens Labs, the Company is setting the standard in cannabis testing and research and development with Canada's only ISO17025 accredited analytical services lab, named The Centre of Excellence in Plant-Based Science by partner and scientific world leader Thermo Fisher Scientific. Discover more on The Valens Company at http://www.thevalenscompany.com.



Notice regarding Forward Looking Statements

All information included in this press release, including any information as to the future financial or operating performance and other statements of The Valens Company that express management's expectations or estimates of future performance, other than statements of historical fact, constitute forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date hereof. Forward-looking statements are included for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future. Wherever possible, words such as "plans", "expects", "scheduled", "trends", "forecasts", "future", "indications", "potential", "estimates", "predicts", "anticipate", "to establish", "believe", "intend", "ability to", or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "should", "could", "would", "might", "will", or are "likely" to be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of these words or other variations thereof, have been used to identify such forward-looking information. Specific forward-looking statements include, without limitation, all disclosure regarding future results of operations, future outcomes of transactions, economic conditions, and anticipated courses of action. Investors and other parties are advised that there is not necessarily any correlation between the number of SKUs manufactured and shipped and revenue and profit, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information.

The risks and uncertainties that may affect forward-looking statements include, among others, Canadian regulatory risk, Australian regulatory risk, U.S. regulatory risk, U.S. border crossing and travel bans, the uncertainties, effects of and responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, reliance on licenses, expansion of facilities, competition, dependence on supply of cannabis and reliance on other key inputs, dependence on senior management and key personnel, general business risk and liability, regulation of the cannabis industry, change in laws, regulations and guidelines, compliance with laws, limited operating history, vulnerability to rising energy costs, unfavourable publicity or consumer perception, product liability, risks related to intellectual property, product recalls, difficulties with forecasts, management of growth and litigation, many of which are beyond the control of The Valens Company. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risks faced by The Valens Company, and which may cause the actual financial results, performance or achievements of The Valens Company to be materially different from estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information or forward-looking statements, please refer to The Valens Company's latest Annual Information Form filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities at www.sedar.com or on The Valens Company's website at www.thevalenscompany.com. The risks described in such Annual Information Form are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Although the forward-looking statements contained herein reflect management's current beliefs and reasonable assumptions based upon information available to management as of the date hereof, The Valens Company cannot be certain that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking information. The Valens Company cautions you not to place undue reliance upon any such forward-looking statements. The Valens Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Nothing herein should be construed as either an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or sell securities of The Valens Company.

SOURCE The Valens Company Inc.

Related Links

https://thevalenscompany.com/


NORFOLK, Va., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Titan America's Pennsuco Quarry, located in Medley, Florida has been awarded the National Mining Association's (NMA) Sentinel of Safety Award in the Large Quarry Group. A total of 393,825 man-hours were logged without a lost time incident at the quarry. This is the seventh win for Pennsuco Quarry.

Sentinels of Safety are awarded annually to the nation's safest mines with a minimum of 4,000 injury-free hours, by the NMA for U.S. mining operations. The NMA's objective is to engage in and influence the public process on the most significant and timely issues that impact mining's ability to safely and sustainably locate, permit, mine, transport and utilize the nation's vast resources. The awards were initiated in 1925 by then Commerce Secretary Herbert Hoover and remain the nation's most prestigious awards recognizing mining safety.

"The National Mining Association congratulates you on winning the 2020 Sentinel of Safety award for your outstanding safety performance at Pennsuco Quarry in the Large Quarry Group," said Rich Nolan, President & CEO, in a letter sent last month. "We applaud your company's dedication to the safety of our most important resources  the nation's miners." The Pennsuco Quarry and Plant Manager Robert Martin will be recognized for the achievement at the NMA awards presentation on September 14, 2021, during MINExpo 2021 held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. "To receive this award again, especially during a pandemic year, is a testament to the Pennsuco team's focus and commitment to maintaining a safe work environment. Congratulations and well done!" said Walter Reed, Senior Vice President of Aggregates for Titan America.

The Pennsuco Quarry is the fifth largest quarry in the United States producing more than 7.5 million tons of limestone products annually. Limestone mining produces an essential ingredient for cement manufacturing. Cement plants rely upon proximity to limestone reserves. In Florida, the cement and aggregate are distributed from Medley through a vast distribution network of storage terminals, rail and road transport. End users span the construction industry, serving both the public and private construction sectors.

Pennsuco Quarry is located on the campus of Titan Florida, a subsidiary of Titan America, LLC (http://www.titanamerica.com), a leading heavy building materials producer in the eastern United States. Titan America is headquartered in Norfolk, VA and its products include cement, aggregates, ready-mixed concrete and fly ash beneficiation. Its parent company, Titan Cement International, S.A., (www.titan-cement.com), headquartered in Brussels, Belgium, is a participant of the UN Global Compact, the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative, based on companies' commitments to implement universal sustainability principles and to support the UN goals.

CONTACT:

Mary Beth Kramer

Kramer Consulting

(215) 431-3946

SOURCE Titan America

Related Links

http://www.titanamerica.com


CHICAGO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this United Arab Emirates (UAE) data center market report.

UAE data center market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 7.99% during the period 20202026. UAE data center market research report includes market size in terms of area, investment, power capacity, and colocation revenues. Get insights on 24 existing and 13 upcoming facilities spread across 5 cities, including Dubai, Abu Dubai, and other cities (Al Ain, Fujairah, and Sharjah).

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

The UAE is one of the largest data center hubs in the Middle East , and its data center industry is thriving due to good submarine cable connectivity, high speed internet bandwidth, significant digital transformation, and fast adoption of the Internet of Things (IoT). Dubai is the leading data center market in the UAE, with 16 unique third-party data center facilities accounting for around 60% of the existing power capacity, followed by Abu Dhabi , contributing to over 30% of the power capacity. The UAE has free trade zones benefitting industrial and enterprise investments, with tax incentives. In 2020, the UAE received investment from colocation providers Equinix, Gulf Data Hub, Khazna Data Centers, Etisalat, Moro Hub, and Group 42. The UAE has a presence of prominent cloud service providers such as Huawei Technologies, Alibaba, Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). In January 2020 , IBM launched two data centers in Abu Dhabi and Dubai , UAE. AWS has announced a new cloud region in Abu Dhabi , to be operational in 2022. Dubai is one of the world's first smart cities and is one of the world's fastest adopters of Internet of Things (IoT). The Smart IoT Dubai project is a government initiative to connect sensors across the city. Civil rights and law enforcement are a few legal issues connected with Smart IoT Dubai. The UAE is working towards installing 42 GW of renewable energy in the country by 2050. Dubai has already started work on this vision by commissioning a five-part renewable energy project and is currently setting up an 800 MW solar park.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Area, Power Capacity, Investment, and Colocation Revenue | 2020-2026

Impact of COVID-19 on Data Center Market

Snapshot of existing and upcoming third-party facilities in UAE

Facilities Covered (Existing): 24



Facilities Identified (Upcoming): 13



Coverage: 5 cities



Existing vs. Upcoming (Data Center Area)



Existing vs. Upcoming (IT Load Capacity)

Data center colocation market in UAE

Market Revenue & Forecast (2020-2026)



Retail Colocation Pricing



Wholesale Colocation Pricing

Market Dynamics  Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by IT infrastructure, electrical infrastructure, mechanical infrastructure, general construction, and tier standard

Key Market Participants  List of 9 IT infrastructure providers, 11 construction service providers, 15 support infrastructure providers, and 7 data center investors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-arab-emirates-data-center-market

UAE Data Center Market  Segmentation

The adoption of advanced technologies such as cloud, IoT, big data, and artificial intelligence by enterprises will lead to higher adoption of high-performance computing infrastructure during the forecast period. The rise in digital transformation strategies and the adoption of cloud computing by enterprises are likely to increase cloud server adoption in the UAE.

Majority of the data center facilities in the UAE are adopting N+1 redundant diesel generators with fuel back up of up to 24 hours. For instance, Gulf Data Hub Dubai data center facility is installed with N+1 redundancy generator with capacity of 16,000KVA and fuel storage of around 48,000 liters for 24 hours backup.

In the UAE, most data centers are designed to cool servers through water-based cooling techniques. The growing construction of data centers will be one of the factors for the development of multiple chillers, cooling towers, and CRAH units.

Market Segmentation by IT Infrastructure

Servers

Storage Systems

Network Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Electrical Infrastructure

UPS Systems

Generators

Transfer, Switches & Switchgears

Rack PDUs

Other Electrical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by Mechanical Infrastructure

Cooling Systems

Rack Cabinets

Other Mechanical Infrastructure

Market Segmentation by General Construction

Building Development

Installation & Commissioning Services

Building Design

Physical Security

Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM)

Market Segmentation by Tier Standard

Tier I & Tier II

Tier III

Tier IV

Market Segmentation by Geography

Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Other Cities

UAE Data Center Market  Dynamics

As of January 2021, the population of the UAE was around 9.94 million. Internet users in the country are around 9.84 million as of 2021, at 99% internet penetration. Dubai is one of the world's first smart cities and is one of the world's fastest adopters of Internet of Things (IoT). The Smart IoT Dubai project is a government initiative to connect sensors across the city. Civil rights and law enforcement are a few legal issues connected with Smart IoT Dubai. In Dubai private and public companies are participating in IoT development to create job opportunities and new revenue streams.

Dubai Internet of Things (IoT) strategy seeks to build the world's most advanced Internet Of Things (IoT) ecosystem in the world's smartest city to improve people's lives. Etisalat Digital uses NB-IoT technology to enable smart parking solutions to drivers to easily locate free parking spots in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Software AG and du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), signed a partnership to provide a subscription-based licensing model IoT services to its business customers.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

Cloud Adoption is Driving Data Center Demand

On-Premises Infrastructure Migrates to Colocation & Managed Services

Procurement of Renewable Energy

5G Deployment Leading Edge Data Center Investment

UAE Data Center Market - Existing Vs. Upcoming Data Centers

Existing Facilities in the region (White Floor Area and Power Capacity)

Dubai

Abu Dubai

Other Cities

List of Upcoming Facilities in the region (White Floor Area and Power Capacity)

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/united-arab-emirates-data-center-market

Key Market Participants

IT Infrastructure Providers

Arista Networks

Atos

Cisco Systems

Dell Technologies

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Huawei Technologies

IBM

Lenovo

NetApp

Construction Constructors & Sub-Contractors

Aldar Properties

DC PRO Engineering

Edarat Group

HHM Building Contracting

Laing O'Rourke

Linesight

M+W Group (Exyte)

McLAREN Construction Group

RED

RW Armstrong

Turner & Townsend

Support Infrastructure Providers

ABB

Caterpillar

Cummins

Delta Electronics

Eaton

HITEC Power Protection

Johnson Controls

Legrand

Rittal

Rolls-Royce Power Systems

Schneider Electric

STULZ

Shenzhen Envicool Technology

Siemens

Vertiv Group

Data Center Investor

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Equinix

Etisalat Group

Future Digital Data Systems

Gulf Data Hub

Khazna Data Centers

Moro Hub

Explore our data center knowledge base profile to know more about the industry.

Read some of the top-selling reports:

About Arizton:

Arizton Advisory and Intelligence is an innovation and quality-driven firm, which offers cutting-edge research solutions to clients across the world. We excel in providing comprehensive market intelligence reports and advisory and consulting services.

We offer comprehensive market research reports on industries such as consumer goods & retail technology, automotive and mobility, smart tech, healthcare, and life sciences, industrial machinery, chemicals and materials, IT and media, logistics and packaging. These reports contain detailed industry analysis, market size, share, growth drivers, and trend forecasts.

Arizton comprises a team of exuberant and well-experienced analysts who have mastered in generating incisive reports. Our specialist analysts possess exemplary skills in market research. We train our team in advanced research practices, techniques, and ethics to outperform in fabricating impregnable research reports.

Mail: [email protected]

Call: +1-312-235-2040

+1 302 469 0707

SOURCE Arizton Advisory & Intelligence
- API-first, microservices-based, headless, cloud-native platform evolved from Skava Commerce

BENGALURU, India, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today launched Infosys Equinox to help enterprises securely deliver hyper-segmented, personalized omnichannel commerce experiences for B2B and B2C buyers. The platform's future-ready architecture offers unprecedented flexibility for enterprises to pick and choose out-of-the-box microservices and pre-built experiences to build curated digital journeys that enhance their digital commerce or launch it grounds-up in a matter of weeks. Infosys Equinox also brings together best-of-breed service, product, platform and industry capabilities from Infosys, and its partners, in an integrated ecosystem. This delivers end-to-end commerce-as-a-service for enterprises to drive results, throughout the purchase lifecycle, that shoppers care about. Infosys Equinox is used by several leading global enterprises in retail, CPG, telecom, manufacturing, automotive and media, and helps drive $15B+ in annual eCommerce gross merchandise value.

Infosys Equinox helps businesses transform their digital commerce across marketing, merchandizing, e-commerce, store operations, supply chain and customer service through its four offerings: Infosys Equinox Microservices, Infosys Equinox Commerce, Infosys Equinox Experiences, and Infosys Equinox Marketing. It delivers:

Customer experience excellence

Infosys Equinox facilitates closer consumer-brand interactions by enabling brands to deliver unique customer journeys that take advantage of emerging social, chat, voice, and augmented reality commerce channels. The platform blends digital experiences with physical ones to deliver more satisfying phygital and contactless shopping. Creating multi-sites adapted for multiple languages and currencies, with deeply localized features and real-time promotions is very convenient with the platform's simplified business user tooling and workflows  requiring no changes to the application code or configuration.

Scale and flexibility to match shopper demands

With its industry-leading cloud-native, microservices-based, API-first architecture, Infosys Equinox is the only digital commerce platform that brands will need to meet the evolving expectations of consumers. The platform offers a rich repository of mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive microservices that can easily integrate with an existing or new platform to deliver headless commerce capabilities. These microservices enable various commerce models used by enterprises including B2B, B2C, B2B2C, D2C, C2M, online marketplaces and digital malls. With its superior technology architecture, this 'any-cloud' platform builds upon leading open-source technologies, and is designed for high performance, availability and security that is best-in-class.

Relevance through innovation

Infosys Equinox's integrated ecosystem of capabilities, spanning from experience to operations, lets enterprises deepen customer relevance throughout the commerce value chain. Ranging from perceptive experience design by WONGDOODY, to optimized retail execution with Infosys TradeEdge, the platform puts the shopper at the center of the enterprise's commerce strategy. With Infosys Equinox, businesses can also deploy segment-specific, user experience innovations on-demand.

Karmesh Vaswani, Executive Vice President & Global Head Consumer, Retail & Logistics, Infosys, said, "With the customer experience landscape evolving every week, companies can't afford to get into a 'set it-forget it' mode. It will take embracing a human-centric approach to create distinctive shopping experiences that match the pulse of consumers. Infosys Equinox makes this less of a struggle. It offers commerce-as-a-service to engage with both B2B and B2C shoppers through one platform that has 50+ percent greater speed-to-market than any other solution when it comes to adding new microservices or starting a new commerce presence. Infosys Equinox provides the perfect balance between agility and adaptability and is a great way for leaders to cement their advantage and for challengers to up their commerce play."

Businesses, the world over, are taking advantage of Infosys Equinox and industry experts attest to its value.

Eric Nelson, Chief Information Officer North America, The Kraft Heinz Company, said, "Infosys Equinox serves us as a digital hub powering over 250 of our global brand sites, B2B ecommerce and recipe sites, as well as direct-to-consumer (D2C) initiatives. We are able to launch new brand sites in as little as 3 to 5 days. The platform also supports our hyper-personalization initiatives and distills real-time insights for our marketing programs. With Infosys Equinox, we at Kraft Heinz are well set to offer richer, more personalized, and meaningful experiences to our consumers."

Prasad Gankanda, Chief Operating Officer, Young Living, said, "You 'reap what you sow' is in our DNA here at Young Living. We know that a bountiful harvest is the result of months of hard work. With Infosys Equinox, we planted the seeds of our new e-commerce platform, and now with the platform and the Infosys team's dedication, we are finally harvesting. Thank you for helping to transform Young Living, and bringing us into the modern age of e-commerce."

"B2C and B2B organizations face immense challenges to succeed in today's digital economy. Customers' expectations are sky-high, eCommerce competition is fierce, and an explosion of commerce channels and touchpoints have all raised the bar on omni-channel experiences for every online merchant. The COVID-19 crisis has also accelerated the shift of transactions from offline to online," said Jordan Jewell, Research Director for IDC's Digital Commerce Program. "Headless/API-first digital commerce has emerged as an architectural paradigm to help merchants deliver more engaging commerce experiences across every channel and touchpoint their customers are on. Infosys Equinox was architected cloud-natively as a headless commerce platform with the purpose of enabling B2C and B2B organizations to overcome the challenges of modern commerce and grow."

For a quick overview of Infosys Equinox, please click on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBaJ_jcmlGo.

Please watch the Infosys Equinox logo reveal video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDPEp-as1nE

To read more about Infosys Equinox, please visit: https://www.infosysequinox.com/

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in more than 50 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer our clients through their digital journey. We do it by enabling the enterprise with an AI-powered core that helps prioritize the execution of change. We also empower the business with agile digital at scale to deliver unprecedented levels of performance and customer delight. Our always-on learning agenda drives their continuous improvement through building and transferring digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem.

Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys ((NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next.

Safe Harbor

Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, financial expectations and plans for navigating the COVID-19 impact on our employees, clients and stakeholders are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding COVID-19 and the effects of government and other measures seeking to contain its spread, risks related to an economic downturn or recession in India, the United States and other countries around the world, changes in political, business, and economic conditions, fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry and the outcome of pending litigation and government investigation. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law.

SOURCE Infosys
PITTSBURGH, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- UPMC, a leading academic medical center, has implemented Infectious Disease Connect's powerful platform for antimicrobial stewardship and infectious diseases (ID) decision support to centralize and improve ID treatment across the health system.

"ID Connect's ILUM Insight Platform provides us with actionable alerts to provide real-time interventions related to antibiotic use," said Ryan Bariola, M.D., co-director, antimicrobial stewardship outreach, UPMC. "This innovative platform also has improved the workflow of our infectious disease pharmacists and their communication with health care providers at the bedside, resulting in better and faster care for patients."

ID Connect is a portfolio company of UPMC Enterprises, the innovation, commercialization and venture capital arm of UPMC, and also is backed by the Merck Global Health Innovation Fund. The Pittsburgh-based company provides hospitals with timely, telemedicine-enabled consultations with infectious disease experts and offers its sophisticated clinical decision support platform, parts of which are now implemented at 20 of UPMC's hospitals.

ID Connect's software helps ID pharmacists and doctors select the most appropriate antimicrobial therapy while managing toxicity, costs and the potential for drug resistance and transmission of infection. Using machine learning, the technology also can combine a patient's demographic factors, medication history, past hospitalizations, risk factors and other data to generate individualized treatment recommendations.

"With growing threats globally from deadly infectious diseases and increasing antibiotic resistance, it's important for us to give our hospital partners new and better tools to face these challenges," said Dave Zynn, president and chief executive officer of ID Connect. "These valuable solutions provide the kind of real-time, patient-centered intelligence that our health care customers are demanding."

ID Connect serves more than 40 facilities in nine states, combining advanced technology with deep infectious disease expertise. The company estimates that it has helped its customers reduce patient transfers by up to 40%, cut antibiotic use by 30% and reduced days of treatment per 1,000 patients by 40%. In December 2020, Infectious Disease Connect's products and services received top quality and satisfaction scores from KLAS Research based on customer feedback.

To read this release online or share it, visit http://www.upmc.com/media/news/090921-ID-Connect-ILUM Insight.

About Infectious Disease Connect

Spun out of leading academic medical center UPMC, ID Connect is a world leader in telemedicine-enabled care of infectious diseases, antimicrobial stewardship, and infection control and prevention. Our technology, precision medicine, and data science are paired with world-class ID physicians to effectively manage infectious diseases across the U.S. At ID Connect, we strive to make people healthy, improve outcomes, and keep our communities free of infectious diseases. For more information, go to www.idctelemed.com

About UPMC

A $23 billion health care provider and insurer, Pittsburgh-based UPMC is inventing new models of patient-centered, cost-effective, accountable care. The largest nongovernmental employer in Pennsylvania, UPMC integrates 92,000 employees, 40 hospitals, 800 doctors' offices and outpatient sites, and a more than 4 million-member Insurance Services Division, the largest medical insurer in western Pennsylvania. In the most recent fiscal year, UPMC contributed $1.7 billion in benefits to its communities, including more care to the region's most vulnerable citizens than any other health care institution, and paid more than $900 million in federal, state and local taxes. Working in close collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences , UPMC shares its clinical, managerial and technological skills worldwide through its innovation and commercialization arm, UPMC Enterprises, and through UPMC International. U.S. News consistently ranks UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside among the nation's best hospitals in many specialties and ranks UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh on its Honor Roll of America's Best Children's Hospitals. For more information, go to UPMC.com .

CONTACT: Jennifer Chaparro, ID Connect

Mobile: 412-260-8904

Email: [email protected]

Contact: Wendy Zellner, UPMC

Office: 412-568-9777

Mobile: 412-973-7266

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE UPMC

Related Links

https://www.upmc.com


LAS VEGAS, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Trusted online travel agency VacationOffer.com is continuing to redefine the business travel and travel fulfillment industries with its state-of-the-art powerful online booking engine, called VO for Business. With the aim to help travel agents, corporate travel program companies, tour operators, and organization program coordinators (OPCs) grow, VO for Business solutions allow coordinators and employees to access the most competitive wholesale pricing in the industry, book trips online in seconds, and manage all aspects of travel within a central dashboard.

"At VacationOffer.com, we have become leaders in the consumer travel sector because our solutions make it really easy for anyone to book memorable trips and thrilling experiences. Now, with our proven expertise in building the type of technologies that real travelers use every day, we're looking to help others in our industry achieve success through our tailored VO for Business solutions," said Sharon Mathews, Marketing Manager at VacationOffer.com. "With VO for Business, we're confident that we can meet the specific needs of any travel company."

VO for Business offers unique solutions for a variety of travel service providers. This includes:

Travel Agencies: By providing travel agents with access to some of the most competitive wholesale pricing in the industry, VO for Business helps ensure that there is enough margin on each product to generate profit for an agency. More importantly, travel agents can book with confidence knowing that their clients are receiving the highest caliber of travel products and services from reputable brands.

By providing travel agents with access to some of the most competitive wholesale pricing in the industry, VO for Business helps ensure that there is enough margin on each product to generate profit for an agency. More importantly, travel agents can book with confidence knowing that their clients are receiving the highest caliber of travel products and services from reputable brands. Corporate Travel Program Service Providers: From beginning to end, arranging and managing travel plans for employees can be an overwhelming task for any organization. With VO for Business, corporate travel coordinators and employees can book trips online in seconds at exclusive business prices. Whether it's a meeting in another town or a conference across the country, VO for Business can help take the hassle out of arranging business travel and protect a company's bottom line from over-priced travel products.

From beginning to end, arranging and managing travel plans for employees can be an overwhelming task for any organization. With VO for Business, corporate travel coordinators and employees can book trips online in seconds at exclusive business prices. Whether it's a meeting in another town or a conference across the country, VO for Business can help take the hassle out of arranging business travel and protect a company's bottom line from over-priced travel products. Tour Operators and OPCs: Scheduling tours and day drives in an industry of ever-changing wave times is a complicated task. With VO for Business, tour operators and OPCs can centrally manage hotel reservations, tour bookings, and gifting in a variety of top travel destinations online by means of an easy-to-use platform. VO for Business has a proven track record and always ensures timely payment on qualified tours.

In addition to its VO for Business solutions, VacationOffer.com works with top brands from around the world to provide consumer travelers and families with high-quality, expertly curated travel experiences to some of the most popular destinations in the country. The best hotels, ticket providers, and other travel industry specialists are contracted by the company to provide their customers with the best travel moments. As a bonus, many of the package deals provided by VacationOffer.com come with travel perks, such as gift cards or vouchers.

To schedule a demo of VO for Business, please visit Corporate.VacationOffer.com.

About VacationOffer.com

A trusted online travel agency, VacationOffer.com provides vacation packages, hotels, event tickets, and attraction tickets in the most popular travel destinations in the United States. The company serves both consumer travelers and businesses, providing high-quality trips and tours with full transparency. Additionally, to ensure the safety of clients, VacationOffer.com and its suppliers adhere to all COVID-19 guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local government agencies. For more information, please visit VacationOffer.com .

Media Contact

Sharon Mathews, Marketing Manager

+1 (877) 218-8232

[email protected]

SOURCE VacationOffer.com
Located at Las Olas Oceanside Park, on A1A and Las Olas, the inaugural Tribute to America's Heroes will honor First Responders and those that protect our country and communities by coming together to celebrate the freedoms we share while cheering heroes to victory.

Event producers Stev Stephens, Phil Carrington, and Brett Williamson are best known as the team behind the obstacle course for the successful Ninja Warrior brand. Their newest project, The Human Baton, is a global high-energy relay race with multiple stages over land, sea, air, and online. Their goal is to capture the energy of the race into a one-day immersive experience with Fort Lauderdale as the backdrop.

Our Tribute to America's Heroes and The Human Baton produced by Stev Stephens to showcase our support to the heroes on the beautiful sandy oasis of Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Fred Roger, Executive Director of The Veterans Trust, says, "By bringing together the community in a unique manner to express the patriotism and love of country, our goal is to commemorate the events of 9/11, pay tribute to our American heroes and celebrate those that stand to defend this nation."

Las Olas Oceanside Park will transform into a community affair with a family-friendly kid zone hosted by FLIPANY, a pop-up food village serving up the area's most delectable eats, an opportunity to learn more about our military and first responders, video game trucks, and simulators provided by local US Military organizations, an exclusive VIP village with refreshing cocktails, and a collection of the city's tastemakers. In addition, there will be a stage program to respectfully pay homage to 9/11 while celebrating America and those that protect it. The day will culminate with an immersive Human Baton experience.

Our mission behind The Human Baton experiences is to leave each city a better place than when they found it. All net proceeds will be distributed by The Veterans Trust to eight local nonprofits. In addition, funds will support critical initiatives in the local community focused on employment, education, and various veteran programs.

The schedule of events surrounding the Tribute to America's Heroes will also include:

A Hangar charitable fundraiser on August 28 .

. An invite-only VIP kickoff party on September 10 .

. An epic closing celebration on the evening of September 11.

* Pending Final City Commission Approval*

ABOUT THE VETERANS TRUST

We are innovating how veterans who served since 2013, The Veterans Trust is a foundation that brings together organizations and resources to solve friction points experienced by our service members, veterans, first responders, and family members. The organization enhances programs through collaborative and adaptive strategies that enable effectively and streamline solutions. In addition, The Veterans Trust is the nation's leading veteran organization providing life-changing motorsports experiences to our nation's heroes.

THE HUMAN BATON

The Human Baton aims to create a new race experience that places the audience at the center of the action. Expert drivers and their vehicles come from seven different race disciplines to form each team to compete in the global race series. Their navigator is The Human Baton Athlete, who is passed across the racecourse and acts as the storyteller, becoming the eyes and ears of the audience. This high-energy race takes place over land, sea, and air, and throughout a continent rather than a traditional racetrack environment. The race combines the speed of Super Cars, Drift Cars, Thundercats, Endurance Horses, Rally Cars, and Helicopters into one racecourse with multiple legs. The Human Baton will participate in and endure each portion of the race as a co-pilot and navigator to keep the world engaged throughout the journey. For more information, please visit https://www.thehumanbaton.com .

Contact: Mike Penrod, [email protected]

SOURCE Veterans Trust
MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wealth Enhancement Group, an independent wealth management firm, announced today it will join forces with Carroll Financial Associates, Inc., an independent RIA headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., with 39 financial advisors that collectively oversee $4.7 billion in total client assets. Upon completing the transaction, Wealth Enhancement Group's total client assets are expected to reach $45.45 billion.*

Carroll Financial Associates is Wealth Enhancement Group's 11th integration in 2021 and continues a steady drumbeat of strategic expansion for the firm. Since June 1, the firm has added 83 advisors and about $12.5 billion in assets to its platform, after adding nearly $7 billion in assets in 2020 and approximately $4.5 billion in 2019.

Founded in 1980 by Chairman Emeritus Larry W. Carroll and led by his son, CEO Kristopher W. Carroll, the firm has locations in Raleigh, N.C., and Rock Hill, S.C., in addition to its Charlotte headquarters. It specializes in comprehensive financial planning, retirement planning, investment management, estate planning, education planning and transition planning for clients throughout the Carolinas. Carroll Financial Associates' three offices will be Wealth Enhancement Group's first in the Carolinas, and will help position it to serve clients in the fast-growing Charlotte region, which has grown into a significant banking and finance center in recent decades, while also continuing to build a presence in the South East.

Jeff Dekko, Chief Executive Officer of Wealth Enhancement Group, said, "The firm that Larry and Kristopher Carroll have built over the past several decades is truly a paragon of success and reflects the potential of financial planning-based business models in today's competitive wealth management marketplace. We are thrilled to bring aboard a firm of this caliber and sophistication, and we look forward to working together with the entire team as we establish our presence in the Carolinas. This partnership brings together Wealth Enhancement Group's substantial scale, resources and industry-leading technology with Carroll Financial Associates' deep knowledge of the regional market and client-service expertise to form an unbeatable combination."

Jim Cahn, Wealth Enhancement Group's Chief Investments & Business Development Officer, said, "As Wealth Enhancement Group has grown over the years, so has our profile among the broader RIA community as the partner of choice for successful firms that are aiming even higher in terms of their client-service capabilities and growth. We are gratified that Larry and Kristopher Carroll made the decision to join with us on their journey, and we look forward to years of fruitful collaboration."

Upon close, Larry Carroll will serve as Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor and Kristopher Carroll will serve as Managing Director at Wealth Enhancement Group. As part of the transaction, the practice will be moving its brokerage assets to LPL Financial.

Kristopher Carroll said, "Since my father started the firm four decades ago, we have taken pride in serving generations of families here in the Carolinas and building close relationships with them. Looking forward, our top priority will continue to be serving our clients with integrity, and we firmly believe that joining Wealth Enhancement Group will enable our team to grow and develop in ways we could not have otherwise done. Our guiding principle has always been that the best interest of the client is the only interest that matters, and we are excited to work with Jeff, Jim and the rest of the Wealth Enhancement Group team as we further enhance our ability to serve our clients effectively and efficiently."

The transaction is set to close by November 1, 2021. Financial terms were not disclosed.

About Wealth Enhancement Group

Wealth Enhancement Group is a Greater Minneapolis-based independent wealth management firm offering comprehensive and customized financial planning and investment management services. Founded in 1997, Wealth Enhancement Group serves clients nationwide. Wealth Enhancement Group specializes in providing retail clients with the team-based knowledge and resources they need to simplify their financial life. For more information, please visit www.wealthenhancement.com.

Advisory services offered through Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services, LLC (WEAS), a registered investment advisor. Certain, but not all, investment advisor representatives (IARs) of WEAS are also registered representatives of and offer securities through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Wealth Enhancement Group and Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services are separate entities from LPL Financial. Wealth Enhancement Group is a registered trademark of Wealth Enhancement Group, LLC.

*Wealth Enhancement Group and its Registered Investment Advisor, Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services, had $38.8 billion in client brokerage and advisory assets as of 7/31/2021. Carroll Financial Associates had $4.7 billion in client assets as of 6/30/2021. With the addition of previously announced acquisitions that closed in August and are expected to close in October and the acquisition of Carroll Financial Associates, Wealth Enhancement Group will have $45.45 billion in client brokerage, advisory and trust assets as of November 2021.

Media Contacts

Joseph Kuo / Chris Clemens

Haven Tower Group

424 317 4851 or 424 317 4854

[email protected] or [email protected]

SOURCE Wealth Enhancement Group

Related Links

http://www.wealthenhancement.com


LOS ANGELES, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wonderbrett, the legendary West Coast cannabis brand best known for world-renowned genetics, exotic terpene profiles and pioneering cultivation techniques, announced today a first-of-its-kind cultivation partnership with Cloud Cannabis Co., a Michigan cannabis company on a mission to destigmatize and demystify the cannabis shopping experience. Cloud Cannabis Co. is among the fastest-growing cannabis retailers in Michigan, with four operating stores, 19 cannabis retail licenses and 200 employees, since launching in 2020.

Concurrently, Cloud Cannabis Co., announced today the acquisition of a state-of-the-art 70,000 square foot grow facility. The acquisition serves as the lynchpin for its new cultivation partnership, wherein Wonderbrett, one of the top five indoor flower brands in California, will cultivate their rare genetics and branded products in Michigan. In addition, all aspects pertaining to cultivation at Cloud Cannabis Co. facilities will be led and overseen by Wonderbrett's founders and senior cultivation team.

This structure is that of a true partnership and not a traditional out-of-state licensing deal. Both companies expect it will result in Wonderbrett's genetics permeating the Michigan market, accelerating Cloud Cannabis Co.'s rapid growth as a vertically integrated state operator and leader in cannabis retail.

"Cloud Cannabis is the perfect partner for us in Michigan due to their expanding retail footprint, extraction and distribution across the state," said Wonderbrett Co-Founder and famed Breeder Brett Feldman. "This partnership will bring our expertise for the development of craft, small-batch, and artisanal products in California to a full scale market in one of the nation's fastest growing states for recreational cannabis."

"This acquisition provides Cloud with full control over our supply chain, allowing us to provide our customers with the highest quality products and retail experiences, while also optimizing the overall profitability of our operations," said Cloud Cannabis CFO Tyson Macdonald. "With all the pieces in place to distribute best of breed products across the entire Michigan marketplace, we are well positioned to work with the highest quality brands looking to enter the Michigan market. Wonderbrett is an ideal partner for us, a people first organization with the same focus on quality execution at all levels."

Based on July's sales of $171M, Michigan represents an annualized market size of approximately $2.1B, yet the state's supply of flower has been stifled due to a lack of supply. However, in July 2021, Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency reported flower sales exceeded $84 Million. This is evidence that the state's cultivation license program has loosened its restrictions in order to support demand, and subsequently allow for strategic partnerships such as Cloud Cannabis Co., and Wonderbrett's to positively impact the market.

Cloud Cannabis Co.'s newly acquired facility in Kalamazoo, MI, is currently operating with built out cultivation space, complete with power, lighting and watering systems. The facility has additional room for expansion, planned for 2022. Cloud Cannabis Co. opened its first retail location in Muskegon in June 2020, followed by locations in Ann Arbor, Traverse City and Utica. The company is building deep roots in Michigan with 15 stores planned to open in the next 12 months.

For more information, please visit: www.wonderbrettstore.com and www.cloudcannabis.com.

PR Contacts:

Wonderbrett

Sonia Hendrix, [email protected]

Cloud Cannabis Co.,

Joelle Kruczek, [email protected]

About Wonderbrett

Wonderbrett is synonymous with legacy California cannabis, as both an innovator and purveyor of the highest quality and most sought-after products available. Our rare genetics, exotic terpene profiles, and meticulous cultivation techniques create consistency and an elevated user experience across the consumer spectrum. Wonderbrett is for the sophisticated connoisseur, producing craft, small-batch, artisanal products at scale.

About Cloud Cannabis Co.

Founded in 2020 by a group of Michiganders, Cloud Cannabis Co. is on a mission to make Michigan happier and healthier by demystifying the cannabis shopping experience through education, assortment and community. Cloud Cannabis supports communities through hiring locally and giving back by partnering with and providing donations to local nonprofits. Cloud Cannabis has locations in Muskegon, Ann Arbor, Traverse City and Utica with several more locations planned throughout Michigan. For more information, visit CloudCannabis.com or follow the company on Instagram and Facebook.

SOURCE Wonderbrett

Related Links

https://www.wonderbrett.com/


FORT MYERS, Fla., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- World Heritage Exhibitions (WHE) today announced the acquisition of several world-class museum exhibitions into the organization's current offerings. These renowned touring properties include POMPEII: The Exhibition, Mummies of the World: The Exhibition, and Victoria the T. rex. The industry's top cultural institutions have proudly welcomed millions of patrons through the doors to marvel at the iconic relics displayed in these tent-pole productions. This acquisition marks the transition of one of the leading historically significant blockbuster exhibitions portfolios in the world. Coupled with the content WHE has in production, this now cements the company as one of the most influential touring exhibitors on the planet.

"These exhibitions provide an opportunity to share a piece of history with the world. It's a unique collection of exhibitions that has a tremendous track record at driving museum attendance across the globe," expressed World Heritage Exhibitions President, Anthony Tann. "The topics align with our current offerings seamlessly and round-out our portfolio of exhibition offerings unlike any available to the public today."

The acquisition comes on the heels of the recent announcements of two world-premiere events that WHE is producing:



Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru features the most significant collection of gold treasures from Andean history to ever tour the globe. The exhibition is debuting at the Boca Raton Museum of Art this October.

features the most significant collection of gold treasures from Andean history to ever tour the globe. The exhibition is debuting at the Boca Raton Museum of Art this October. Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs features 181 priceless Ancient Egyptian treasures and one-of-a-kind relics, many representing the exceptional pharaoh himself. The exhibition is debuting at the Houston Museum of Natural Science this November.

Both exhibitions in production are breaking down barriers of norms seen in the museum industry and are expected to be tremendously well received by the public.

"The industry is changing, and our team is at the forefront of these trends. Guests to museums and exhibitions today expect fully immersive experiences where you can truly feel the sights and sounds of these events, bringing you face-to-face with a moment captured in time," Tann continued. "We anticipate breathing a breath of new life into these already tremendously successful attractions that will allow visitors a chance to experience historical events in a way they never have before."

About the exhibitions acquired by WHE:

POMPEII: The Exhibition examines the lives of the residents of Pompeii before and after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD through artifacts on loan from the prestigious Naples National Archaeological Museum in Italy. The exhibition features 8 body casts excavated from the site of Pompeii as well as 180 priceless artifacts.

Mummies of the World: The Exhibition brings visitors face-to-face with more than 125 real mummies and related artifacts from across the globe, providing a window into the lives of people from every region of the world and offering unprecedented insights into past cultures and civilizations. The exhibition will enthrall guests with dramatic displays of the mummies and their personal stories, as well as state-of-the-art multimedia stations that will take visitors on a 4,500-year journey to explore the mummies' history and origins as well as how they were created.

Victoria the T. rex is an experience 66 million years in the making. The exhibition's focal point, Victoria, is the largest and most complete, real touring T. rex skeleton in the world. This exhibition transports guests to a time when dinosaurs roamed the earth, bringing to life an important paleontological discovery and giving museum visitors the rare opportunity to visit the Cretaceous period, where Victoria's story unfolds in her natural habitat.

WHE plans to further usher this catalogue into an ever-evolving museum landscape. Their executive team and production staff were hand-picked for their decades of experience developing, refining, marketing, and touring the industry's top exhibitions.

"We've experienced rapid growth in recent months, expanding not only our roster of touring properties but also our team," Tann described. "Many of our staff cut their teeth in the museum industry and were pivotal in the success of these very exhibitions from their onset. Therefore, our team already knows these exhibitions and their fine lending institutions inside-and-out. We'll immediately be able to bring them to market with unprecedented fan fair. I don't think there is another team better equipped to ensure that these touring monuments to history are preserved and on display throughout the world's cultural institutions for years to come."

World Heritage Exhibitions, now the industry leader in artifact-based, blockbuster traveling exhibitions, is expected to continue to turn-heads with their proactive, new age approach to the industry.

For photos featuring the content included in these exhibitions, click here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/5eayzei32uqjkqh/AADHMfSAP420bLDzHp7cBxYZa?dl=0

SOURCE World Heritage Exhibitions
DUBLIN, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Calcite Market Research Report by Type, by Region - Global Forecast to 2026 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Calcite Market size was estimated at USD 9,369.21 Million in 2020 and expected to reach USD 9,921.67 Million in 2021, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 6.23% to reach USD 13,468.15 Million by 2026.



Market Statistics:

The report provides market sizing and forecast across five major currencies - USD, EUR GBP, JPY, and AUD. It helps organization leaders make better decisions when currency exchange data is readily available. In this report, the years 2018 and 2019 are considered historical years, 2020 as the base year, 2021 as the estimated year, and years from 2022 to 2026 are considered the forecast period.



Market Segmentation & Coverage:

This research report categorizes the Calcite to forecast the revenues and analyze the trends in each of the following sub-markets:

Based on Type, the Calcite Market was studied across Ground Calcium Carbonate and Precipitated Calcium Carbonate.

Based on Application, the Calcite Market was studied across Adhesives & Sealants, Construction, Paints & Coatings, Paper, and Plastics.

Based on Region, the Calcite Market was studied across Americas, Asia-Pacific , and Europe , Middle East & Africa . The Americas is further studied across Argentina , Brazil , Canada , Mexico , and United States . The Asia-Pacific is further studied across Australia , China , India , Indonesia , Japan , Malaysia , Philippines , Singapore , South Korea , and Thailand . The Europe , Middle East & Africa is further studied across France , Germany , Italy , Netherlands , Qatar , Russia , Saudi Arabia , South Africa , Spain , United Arab Emirates , and United Kingdom .

Competitive Strategic Window:

The Competitive Strategic Window analyses the competitive landscape in terms of markets, applications, and geographies to help the vendor define an alignment or fit between their capabilities and opportunities for future growth prospects. It describes the optimal or favorable fit for the vendors to adopt successive merger and acquisition strategies, geography expansion, research & development, and new product introduction strategies to execute further business expansion and growth during a forecast period.



FPNV Positioning Matrix:

The FPNV Positioning Matrix evaluates and categorizes the vendors in the Calcite Market based on Business Strategy (Business Growth, Industry Coverage, Financial Viability, and Channel Support) and Product Satisfaction (Value for Money, Ease of Use, Product Features, and Customer Support) that aids businesses in better decision making and understanding the competitive landscape.



Market Share Analysis:

The Market Share Analysis offers the analysis of vendors considering their contribution to the overall market. It provides the idea of its revenue generation into the overall market compared to other vendors in the space. It provides insights into how vendors are performing in terms of revenue generation and customer base compared to others. Knowing market share offers an idea of the size and competitiveness of the vendors for the base year. It reveals the market characteristics in terms of accumulation, fragmentation, dominance, and amalgamation traits.



Company Usability Profiles:

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Calcite Market, including Carmeuse, Columbia River Carbonates, Esen Mikronize Maden, Golden Lime Public Company Limited, Gulshan Polyols LTD., Huber Engineered Materials, Imerys S.A., Jay Minerals, Krishna Minerals, Longcliffe Quarries LTD., Maruo Calcium Co., LTD., Minerals Technologies Inc., Mississippi Lime Company, Nitto Funka Kogyo K.K., Nordkalk Corporation, Northern Minerals Co. LLC, Okutama Kogyo Co., LTD., Omya AG, Shandong Citic Calcium Industry Co., LTD, Sibelco, Silver Microns Pvt. LTD., United Mining Investments Co., US Aggregates, Wolkem India LTD., and Yuncheng Chemical Industrial Co., LTD..



The report provides insights on the following pointers:

1. Market Penetration: Provides comprehensive information on the market offered by the key players

2. Market Development: Provides in-depth information about lucrative emerging markets and analyze penetration across mature segments of the markets

3. Market Diversification: Provides detailed information about new product launches, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments

4. Competitive Assessment & Intelligence: Provides an exhaustive assessment of market shares, strategies, products, certification, regulatory approvals, patent landscape, and manufacturing capabilities of the leading players

5. Product Development & Innovation: Provides intelligent insights on future technologies, R&D activities, and breakthrough product developments



The report answers questions such as:

1. What is the market size and forecast of the Global Calcite Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Calcite Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Calcite Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Calcite Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Calcite Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Calcite Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Calcite Market?



Key Topics Covered:



1. Preface



2. Research Methodology

3. Executive Summary



4. Market Overview

4.1. Introduction

4.2. Cumulative Impact of COVID-19



5. Market Insights

5.1. Market Dynamics

5.1.1. Drivers

5.1.1.1. Rising demand for paper from packaging applications and hygiene-related products

5.1.1.2. Growing demand from the building and construction industry

5.1.1.3. Increasing demand and production of adhesives, plastics, sealants, and polymers

5.1.2. Restraints

5.1.2.1. High prices of raw material

5.1.3. Opportunities

5.1.3.1. High adoption in oil and gas sector

5.1.3.2. Increasing use in agriculture lime and animal feed

5.1.4. Challenges

5.1.4.1. Decline in the production of paper due to increase in digitization

5.2. Porters Five Forces Analysis

5.2.1. Threat of New Entrants

5.2.2. Threat of Substitutes

5.2.3. Bargaining Power of Customers

5.2.4. Bargaining Power of Suppliers

5.2.5. Industry Rivalry



6. Calcite Market, by Type

6.1. Introduction

6.2. Ground Calcium Carbonate

6.3. Precipitated Calcium Carbonate



7. Calcite Market, by Application

7.1. Introduction

7.2. Adhesives & Sealants

7.3. Construction

7.4. Paints & Coatings

7.5. Paper

7.6. Plastics



8. Americas Calcite Market

8.1. Introduction

8.2. Argentina

8.3. Brazil

8.4. Canada

8.5. Mexico

8.6. United States



9. Asia-Pacific Calcite Market

9.1. Introduction

9.2. Australia

9.3. China

9.4. India

9.5. Indonesia

9.6. Japan

9.7. Malaysia

9.8. Philippines

9.9. Singapore

9.10. South Korea

9.11. Thailand



10. Europe, Middle East & Africa Calcite Market

10.1. Introduction

10.2. France

10.3. Germany

10.4. Italy

10.5. Netherlands

10.6. Qatar

10.7. Russia

10.8. Saudi Arabia

10.9. South Africa

10.10. Spain

10.11. United Arab Emirates

10.12. United Kingdom



11. Competitive Landscape

11.1. FPNV Positioning Matrix

11.1.1. Quadrants

11.1.2. Business Strategy

11.1.3. Product Satisfaction

11.2. Market Ranking Analysis

11.3. Market Share Analysis, By Key Player

11.4. Competitive Scenario

11.4.1. Merger & Acquisition

11.4.2. Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership

11.4.3. New Product Launch & Enhancement

11.4.4. Investment & Funding

11.4.5. Award, Recognition, & Expansion



12. Company Usability Profiles

12.1. Carmeuse

12.2. Columbia River Carbonates

12.3. Esen Mikronize Maden

12.4. Golden Lime Public Company Limited

12.5. Gulshan Polyols LTD.

12.6. Huber Engineered Materials

12.7. Imerys S.A.

12.8. Jay Minerals

12.9. Krishna Minerals

12.10. Longcliffe Quarries LTD.

12.11. Maruo Calcium Co., LTD.

12.12. Minerals Technologies Inc.

12.13. Mississippi Lime Company

12.14. Nitto Funka Kogyo K.K.

12.15. Nordkalk Corporation

12.16. Northern Minerals Co. LLC

12.17. Okutama Kogyo Co., LTD.

12.18. Omya AG

12.19. Shandong Citic Calcium Industry Co., LTD

12.20. Sibelco

12.21. Silver Microns Pvt. LTD.

12.22. United Mining Investments Co.

12.23. US Aggregates

12.24. Wolkem India LTD.

12.25. Yuncheng Chemical Industrial Co., LTD.



13. Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4y2qev

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]

For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

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SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com


New York, Sep 9 : As more campuses reopened during the second week of September in the US, pediatric cases of Covid-19 have seen upticks again, though mask mandates are observed in some schools and regular tests are carried out in areas of coronavirus exposure.

Weekly pediatric coronavirus cases surpassed 250,000 for the first time since the start of the pandemic, according to the latest data published by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The data shows that more than a quarter of weekly reported coronavirus cases in the US were among children for the week ending September 2. While most pediatric cases are not severe, nearly 2,400 children were hospitalised nationwide with Covid-19 in the seven days ending Tuesday, more than ever before, the Xinhua news agency reported.

"Covid-19 cases in children dipped early in the summer but quickly rose again, both with the spread of the highly transmissible Delta variant and because coronavirus vaccines are not authorised for children under 12," reported The Washington Post on Wednesday.

As the pandemic extends into a third academic year, administrators, lawmakers and health officials are again balancing health risks with best practices for learning. Safety protocols vary across states and school districts. Public health experts are concerned that a rollback of precautions and the heightened infectiousness of the Delta variant could lead to greater transmission risks in schools, a media report said on Wednesday.

Hundreds of students and staff across the US have already tested positive, pushing thousands into quarantine and prompting schools to temporarily close or revert to virtual learning.

Meanwhile, some schools are trying a new plan to keep students safe in the classroom. Rather than quarantining children who have an in-school contact with a positive case, they are testing students in large numbers, said the report.

The method keeps children in school after exposure to a classmate or teacher who tested positive for Covid-19 if they test negative at least every other day. Known as "test-to-stay," the approach is a higher transmission risk than keeping exposed students at home, but some public health experts and educators say the trade-off is worth it to avoid missed days in class.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director Rochelle Walensky has said that bigger Covid-19 outbreaks and quarantines are occurring primarily in schools that haven't followed the agency's recommendations, including promoting vaccines for those who are eligible, universal masking, distancing, improved ventilation and screening testing.

Without such mitigation measures, more students and staff will have to sit out of school because they are sick or quarantined, Jason Newland, a pediatrician and infectious disease expert at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, was quoted by WSJ as saying. "You've now really hurt the kids in the end." US parents are eager for kids to return to school, but they're concerned their children will get seriously ill if they catch Covid-19. A strong majority support requiring masks and teacher vaccinations amid a surge in pediatric cases, reported local media.

A majority of parents in a new USA TODAY/Ipsos poll agree that masks should be required. Research suggests masking at schools can limit Covid-19 transmission, yet it's emerged as one of the most contentious issues in education, causing chaos at school board meetings and garnering lawsuits, according to the report.

Roughly two in three Americans, parents and non-parents alike, are in favour of schools or states implementing mask mandates for teachers and students. There lies the strongest support among parents of colour. Forty-three per cent of poll participants said student mask-wearing should be at the discretion of individual parents, according to the poll.

Respondents were similarly in favour of requiring teachers and other school employees to be vaccinated against Covid-19 -- 65 per cent of all participants and 56 per cent of parents said that they supported such mandates.

In the meantime, parents are more skeptical of online learning than they were last school year. Across the country, more than 1,000 schools, having just reopened, halted in-person learning and went back online because of Covid-19 outbreaks.

Among parents of schoolchildren, seven in 10 supported returning to full-time instruction in classrooms. Support was the strongest among white and Asian parents and weakest among Black and Hispanic parents, communities that have been hit harder by Covid-19, according to the poll.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New York, Sep 9 : Online search giant Googles digital advertising business is under renewed fire. The US government is reportedly stitching together an antitrust lawsuit against one of Google's "crown jewels" - its outsize role in the ad tech market, according to new reporting by Politico and Bloomberg.

Politico reports that the Google ad tech probe is close to the "finish line". Making the final call along with Attorney General Merrick Garland will be his deputy - Indian American Vanita Gupta, according to the same report.

Current research shows that upwards of 85 per cent of online display advertising space in the US is bought and sold in real-time on electronic trading exchanges where Google operates both the top trading platform plus the main conduits through which buyers and sellers must go to trade.

By Q1 2020, the share of ad revenue going to Google properties increased to 85 per cent. That number was 64 per cent in 2007. The lion's share of Google's $134 billion in advertising revenue (Q1, 2020) went to Google's spinoffs.

For more than a year now, the US Justice Department, the Federal Trade Commission and US Congress have been pursuing sweeping antitrust investigations of big tech companies, resulting in a growing pile of cases, damning reports drawing on internal emails and most recently a tough talking executive order from the Biden government in July.

In a 121-pager headlined "Why Google Dominates Advertising Markets", cited by the US Congress in its investigations, Dr. Dina Srinivasan makes the case that Google engages "in conduct that lawmakers prohibit in other electronic trading markets." Back in October 2020, the Trump administration landed the first big blow against Google, with what it called a "monumental" case against one of Silicon Valley's most admired and powerful companies. In that one, the US sued Google alleging it is illegally maintaining a monopoly in the search market.

Google's response at the time was par for course: "Today's lawsuit by the Department of Justice is deeply flawed. People use Google because they choose to -- not because they're forced to or because they can't find alternatives." If a new lawsuit drops and messes with Google's efforts to phase out its current ad tracking technology (cookies) and insert new lines of code to track user behaviour, it would signal the first time that the company's core engineering muscle is up against the full force of the US government. "An actual filing against the search giant still isn't imminent," Politico noted.

But antitrust action has typically been slow in the US, cases take years to play out. America's antitrust laws first came into being more than 100 years ago. But after the Cambridge Analytica scandal and the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol, the political appetite for change is in the air. The pressure is now on Congress to act.

(Nikhila Natarajan is on Twitter @byniknat)
Amaravati, Sep 9 : The Andhra Pradesh High Court has upheld the state government's ban on public celebration of the Vinayaka Chaturthi festival. However, the High Court also directed the state government to permit the installation of Ganesh pandals on private premises.

The High Court, Wednesday, was hearing a petition challenging the state government's orders placing curbs on public celebration of the Ganesh festival on September 10 this year.

Citing the Covid pandemic, the state government headed by Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had decided to bar public functions for the festival.

As per the orders issued recently by the state government, a ban was imposed on erecting Ganesh pandals in public places.

However, the government's move has been vehemently opposed by opposition parties BJP and TDP. Over the past two days, the BJP has organised massive protests demanding that public festivities be allowed for Ganesh Chaturthi with celebrations lasting from three to twenty one days.

Noting that Article 26 gives people the right to manage their religious activities, the High Court has directed the state of to permit Ganesh pandals in private premises. Not more than five devotees can perform puja at any given time in such pandals. Covid norms must be duly followed in these places, the Court said.

Latest updates on Ganesh Chaturthi Festival 2021
Marseille, Sep 9 : A motion calling for a moratorium on deep-sea mining was adopted with overwhelming support by the IUCN World Conservation Congress.

Among government and government agencies 81 voted on Wednesday for the moratorium with 18 against and 28 abstentions. Among NGOs and civil society organisation the vote was 577 for, 32 against and 35 abstentions, sending a strong message to governments that there is global opposition to deep-sea mining.

"We are very pleased to see so many governments, agencies and NGOs voting for a moratorium on deep-sea mining; the support has been overwhelming," said Matthew Gianni Co-Founder of the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition (DSCC).

"Member countries of the ISA, including France which hosted this Congress, need to wake up and act on behalf of civil society and the environment now, and take action in support of a moratorium." Scientists have warned that deep-sea mining will cause large-scale, irreversible biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation if permitted to occur, particularly in the international areas of the world's ocean.

The International Seabed Authority (ISA), a multilateral regulatory body established under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea in 1994, is debating whether to begin licensing commercial deep-sea mining in as little as two years. A total of 167 countries plus the EU are members of the ISA.

The German Environment Ministry, the government of Fiji and many other government agencies voted to support motion 069.

Nauru has triggered a so-called two-year rule at the ISA which it expects will result in the authority issuing a commercial license to mine.

Forty-seven African countries have challenged the trigger and Sian Owen, Director of the DSCC, says: "Hopefully the vote in Marseille will translate into a vote at the ISA to adopt a moratorium on deep sea mining." Motion 069 calls for protection of deep-ocean ecosystems and biodiversity through a moratorium on seabed mining. It was sponsored by Fauna and Flora International and co-sponsored by Fundacion MarViva, Natural Resources Defense Council, Sylvia Earle Alliance/Mission Blue, Synchronicity Earth, Wildlands Conservation Trust and World Wide Fund for Nature-International.
Islamabad, Sep 9 : Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that the well-being of the Afghan people must remain the focus, as they have suffered enormously due to prolonged conflict and instability for decades.

While chairing the Foreign Ministers' virtual meeting on the Afghan issue also attended by China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, Qureshi on Wednesday emphasised the importance of proceeding with a realistic approach in view of the changed reality in Afghanistan, reports Xinhua news agency.

A shared approach would help Afghanistan on its path to peace and stability and would result in enhanced economic integration and realization of connectivity projects, he said.

During the meeting, Qureshi drew the attention of the international community to addressing humanitarian crisis and preventing economic meltdown in Afghanistan as the key priorities.

He expressed hope that the meeting would lay strong foundation for a robust regional engagement on the situation in Afghanistan.

The Taliban announced on Tuesday night the formation of Afghanistan's caretaker government, with Mullah Hassan Akhund appointed as the acting prime minister.

The Taliban said it had completely captured Panjshir, the last holdout province of Afghanistan's 34 provinces, after the US troops withdrawal last last month.

The last batch of US troops left Afghanistan at mid-night on August 30, one day before the August 31 deadline set by President Joe Biden, ending a 20-year war into the South Asian country.
Bengaluru, Sep 9 : The opposition Congress in Karnataka has decided to launch a full-fledged attack on ruling BJP in the state on the issue of release of caste census, implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) and Mysuru gang rape case in upcoming Assembly session starting from September 13.

The ruling BJP seems to be placed in a better place as new Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has managed to silence dissenting voices and strike a balance between the party and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa. The BJP camp is also upbeat about managing to wrestle power in Mysuru and Belagavi city corporations for the first time.

The issues were finalised in the recently held meeting under the chairmanship of Opposition leader Siddaramaiah, the sources in the Congress said. In the meeting it was decided to exert pressure on the BJP to release the controversial caste census.

The caste census carried out during the tenure of Siddaramaiah as the chief minister has not seen the light to date. The upper caste groups are opposed to it and have submitted a memorandum not to release the caste census report. They are claiming that the report is flawed and facts are manipulated. While the most backward classes are pressing for its release.

Sources in the Congress said the decision has been made even as KPCC President D.K. Shivakumar is not happy with raking up the issue. However, Siddaramaiah camp is all set to bring up the matter on the floor and wants to turn it into a movement.

The Congress also wants to press for a cut on GST by the state on fuel like neighbouring Tamil Nadu to bring soaring petrol and diesel prices down. Both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar camp have agreed to attack the government on law and order situation in the state in the backdrop of sensational Mysuru gang rape case.

The Congress appointed fact-finding committee has already submitted a report on the Mysuru gang rape case and highlighted the failure of the government to prevent such crimes and also handle the investigation. The Congress leaders will also attack Home Minister Araga Jnanendra for his loose comments on the rape incident.

Siddaramaiah has also decided to take up the poor management of finances by the ruling BJP government. The Congress leaders have also agreed to debate the implementation of NEP, an ambitious project of the ruling BJP in haste without discussion. Siddaramaiah had refused the invitation to be a part of the discussion by stating the ruling BJP had called very late for the discussion and that too after the decision was made. Shivakumar has urged the government to postpone the implementation by at least one year.

Meanwhile, the ruling BJP seems to be well placed to confront the Congress attacks under the leadership of the new Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai. The dissenting voices challenging the ruling government have been silenced and Bommai has managed to create a good impression with his flexible and mellowed down approach. He has also managed to strike a balance with party high command and former Chief Minister Yediyurappa.

Sources explain that JD(S), another major party in Karnataka which is all set to make an alliance in Kalaburgi city corporation and will remain neutral in the session and not launch attacks on the ruling BJP.
September 09 : Anupam Kher is currently in the US. The actor recently wrapped the shoot for his upcoming film 'Shiv Shastri Balboa' there and is currently performing his show 'Zindagi Ka Safar' there. He is very active on his social media and now he has shared his encounter in New York with tabla maestro Zakir Hussain.

Sharing a video with him, he wrote,"Encounters in NY: I was delighted to meet the maestro, the pride of our country Ustad #Zakir Hussain Saab in NY. I am his admirer for a long time. Such a humble man. It is pure magic when he plays table. Jai Ho to him!!

In the video, he can be heard saying it is so rare in life one gets a chance to meet someone whom you admire and how happy he is to meet Zakir Hussain in New York. Even Zakir Hussain saab can be heard saying he is a big fan of Anupam Kher.

The actor keeps sharing glimpses and experiences of his life on his social media which is loved by his fans.

Anupam Kher will be seen in the film 'Shiv Shastri Balboa' which is directed by Ajayan Venugopalan and will have elements of humour and drama. It is the survival story of an Indian in a small town in America. Neena Gupta will also be seen in the film alongside him.

Meanwhile. besides this, he will also be soon seen in the film 'Happy Birthday' which won him the best actor award in NYCIFF. He will also be seen in Vivek Agnihotri's 'The Kashmir Files' which is based on the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990's. He will also be seen in 'The Last Show' and 'Mungilal Rocks'.
Manila, Sep 9 : Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has formally accepted the ruling party PDP-Laban's nomination to run for Vice President in next year's national elections.

"No words can express my gratitude for your continued trust and confidence in my leadership and for nominating me as the party's official vice presidential candidate in the 2022 election," Duterte, 76, said on Wednesday while addressing the party's national convention held in Pampanga province.

The party also nominated Duterte's long-time aid and Senator Christopher Go as the official presidential candidate.

But the Senator declined the nomination.

"I have already respectfully declined your endorsement through a letter I sent last week. I am hoping that the party will continue to respect my decision," Go said, adding he would continue to support the party and urged them to prioritise other personalities who are interested to run for presidency.

Eight government officials are also named as PDP-Laban's official senatorial candidates in next year's polls.

Candidates for the 2022 elections will officially file their candidacy in October.

Duterte thanked his party mates and political allies for their support of his administration.

"I cannot thank you enough for your strong support for the administration's priorities, especially our fight against illegal drugs, terrorism, corruption, and poverty.

"I am hopeful that this will allow me to continue serving the Filipino people and help lead the entire nation towards greater progress," Duterte added.

He said his running for the vice presidency is due to "a sense of love of country".

"I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving the direction." Duterte was elected President in the May 2016 elections.

The Constitution limits Presidents to a single six-year term.

The Vice President is elected separately from the President under the Philippine law.
New York, Sep 9 : British teenager Emma Raducanu continued her sensational run as she became the first qualifier to make the semi-finals at the US Open, stunning Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Belinda Bencic of Switzerland in straight sets.

Emma, 18, defeated No. 11 seed Blenda 6-3, 6-4 in one hour and 22 minutes at the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Just two months after her breakthrough run to the round of 16 in her Grand Slam main-draw debut at Wimbledon, the World No.150 Emma is now into the final four of a major in just her second appearance.

Teenagers will now feature in both of Th'rsday's semifinals: Leylah Fernandez of Canada, who turned 19 on Monday, also won her quarterfinal and will face No.2 seed Aryna Sabalenka in the bottom half of the draw.

Emma Raducanu is the fourth women's qualifier to reach the semi-finals of a Grand Slam event in the Open Era (since 1968). She joins Christine Dorey (1978 Australian Open), Alexandra Stevenson (1999 Wimbledon), and Nadia Podoroska (2020 Roland Garros) to achieve this feat.

She is also just the third woman ranked outside the Top 100 to make it into the US Open semi-finals, joining WTA Legends Billie Jean King in 1979 and Kim Clijsters in 2009. Both King and Clijsters were unranked in those instances; Clijsters went on to win the title, according to information available on the WTA Tour website.

"I'm so pleased to have come through that," Emma told the press, after her win. "Belinda is such a great opponent and she's an Olympic gold medallist, which is probably one of the biggest events in sport.

"She's a great player, and I knew it's going to be an extremely difficult match. It took me some adjusting at the beginning to get used to her ball speed, yeah, how aggressive she was. Once I adjusted, I settled in. I didn't overpress as much. I found a way to win, but it was very difficult to play against someone at such a high level.

"Let's say I have a hunger to win every single match I play, so I don't want to get ahead of myself at all, because I just like to take it one day at a time. If I take care of what I can control, then that's going to give me the best chance.

"Until now, I think it's worked very well for me not getting ahead of myself, just focusing on one point at a time. It's got me to this stage, and I'm not going to change anything.

"I have actually got no idea about any of the records at all. It's the first time I heard today that I was the first qualifier to make the semis. I had no idea before that. Yeah, I'm not here to chase any records right now. I'm just taking care of what I can do on the moment and on the match ahead," she was quoted as saying by the WTA.

Emma has still not lost a set in her eight matches over the past two-and-a-half weeks, which includes her three qualifying matches the week prior to the event.

She was cleaner on the day than the more experienced Belinda, who was seeking her second trip to the US Open semifinals in her last two appearances. Belinda had reached the semis in 2019 but did not play last year.

The British teen had 23 winners, nearly double her unforced error count of 12. Belinda, by contrast, had 19 winners and 21 unforced errors. Emma was also far more successful on breakpoints, going 3-for-6, while Belinda could only convert one of her five.
Lucknow, Sep 9 : The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh is now eyeing around three crore voters from the state who are living in other states, particularly Maharashtra.

The party, according to sources, has asked its units in various states to prepare a list of Uttar Pradesh residents who are living in their states.

A senior party functionary said, "There are a large number of people from Uttar Pradesh who are living in states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Delhi and West Bengal. They are registered as voters in UP but often do not come here to cast their votes. We plan to contact these voters before the state Assembly elections." The BJP members who are living in other states, will now be asked to create awareness in their respective states about the work done by the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh.

The party, in particular, will focus on Maharashtra that has a large number of people from Uttar Pradesh working there.

Apart from those who have settled in Maharashtra, there is a large population of migrant workers who work there but their families live in Uttar Pradesh.

Former Minister of State for Home Kripa Shankar Singh, who is a popular leader of the north Indian population living in Maharashtra, has been asked by the BJP to undertake the task of bringing north Indians into the party fold. Singh belongs to Jaunpur district in UP.

Talking to IANS on Thursday, Kripa Shankar Singh, who is in Lucknow on a two-day visit, said, "There are about 45 lakh people from Uttar Pradesh who stay in Maharashtra. I will be touring various constituencies to mobilise them in favour of the BJP." He further said, "The work done by the Yogi Adityanath government in controlling the law-and-order situation, ensuring a corruption free administration, inviting investments and controlling Covid during the pandemic has been exemplary. We will inform our supporters who will spread the word among other UP residents in their states." He further said that north Indians living in Maharashtra would certainly not vote for the Shiv Sena that had targeted non-Maharashtrians in a big way and the north Indians there bore the brunt.

"Those who go with Shiv Sena cannot be 'Uttar Bhartiya (north Indians)," he added.

Kripa Shankar Singh, who was in the Congress earlier, has recently joined the BJP and has been appointed vice-president in the Maharashtra unit.
United Nations, Sep 9 : India's Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi met UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed to discuss regional issues and reforms.

Lekhi, who is in New York, met Mohammed on Wednesday and tweeted: "We discussed multilateral and regional issues. Had fruitful exchange of views on Sustainable Development, Climate Change, Covid-19 response and UN reforms." She also met with Abdullah Shahid, the Foreign Minister of the Maldives who will be the President of the next session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

He tweeted that it was "very good" to meet with her and discuss his priorities for the next session.

"India is a champion of multilateralism and I am confident of India's support to the Presidency of Hope," his tweet said.

Lekhi tweeted that they discussed Covid-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment.

Shahid was elected with the backing of India.

(Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed @arulouis)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Patna, Sep 9 : The health department of Bihar is on alert after viral fever cases among children rose in several districts of the state triggering panic among parents.

The department has sent dedicated medical teams to Siwan, Gopalganj, Vaishali, Muzaffarpur, Bhagalpur and rural areas of Patna to control the situation.

Sanjay Kumar Singh, the executive director of Bihar state health committee, said: "Cases related to viral fever, cough-cold, pneumonia etc have been registered in large numbers. Hence, we have alerted the health officials of every district. They have been asked to be present in the hospitals and take care of kids." At present, 30 children are admitted in Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH) Muzaffarpur while 75 children are in different private hospitals. Some of them have recovered and have been discharged from the hospital.

In Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH), 122 children are currently admitted in NICU and PICU wards and 13 of them are having pneumonia.

Around 80 minor patients are admitted in Nalanda Medical College and hospitals (NMCH) and 18 of them are having symptoms of pneumonia.

Due to rising cases of viral fever and pneumonia, parents are hesitating to send their children for off-line classes to school.

Due to this, several schools on Wednesday decided to take examinations online for classes 1 to 5 in Patna.
September 09 : Priyanka Chopra described her role in the upcoming film The Matrix Resurrections, and called herself a small fish in a huge pond. The actress had earlier announced the date for the release of the trailer of The Matrix Resurrections, which will be out today.

Taking to Instagram, The White Tiger actress had shared the trailer release date of the film along with a link to the teaser. Priyanka had captioned the post as, "Yep! its almost time to take that pill...Trailer Thursday at 6AM PT (6:30pm IST). Go ahead and click the link in my bio to experience it yourself. The choice is yours! #TheMatrixMovie @thematrixmovie."

Actor and television host Mini Mathur shared Priyankas post on her Instagram stories, and wrote, "Oh my God @priyankachopra. This is so mad cool!! Can't wait to see what you bring to this film!!" Priyanka re-shared Mini Mathurs post on Instagram stories, and responded. "Just a small fish in a huge pond babe! But happy for the opportunity! The love!! @minimathur."

Image Source: Instagram/priyankachopra Priyanka Chopra on her role in The Matrix Resurrections

Ahead of the launch of the first trailer for The Matrix Resurrections today evening, Warner Bros launched a website, featuring an innovative look at the upcoming film. The teaser presented users with two different angles of each choice, and it appears to be the central story in The Matrix Resurrections. Those who click on the blue pill, can hear Neil Patrick Harriss narration as he says, Youve lost your capacity to discern reality from fiction...anything else is just your mind playing tricks on you.

Those who click on the red pill will hear Abdul-Mateens voice, talking about that while it is the current time, that couldnt be further from the truth. A new character played by Jessica Henwick will join the fight against the machines. Each time a user clicks on a pill, the footage changes slightly.

The fourth instalment of The Matrix franchise is directed by Lana Wachowski. Lana co-directed and co-wrote the first three Matrix instalments with sister Lilly Wachowski. The Matrix Resurrections is slated to hit theatres and on HBO max on December 22. The film features Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Priyanka Chopra,Jada Pinkett Smith, Neil Patrick Harris, Jonathan Groff, Jessica Henwick, and others.
Kabul, Sep 9 : The prolonged war and civil strife have shattered bodies and souls of the Afghans and the country deserves humanitarian supports, peace and prosperity, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Peter Maurer said.

"War shatters bodies and souls. Four decades of war shatters nations," he said in a statement released on Wednesday after a four-day trip to Afghanistan.

"The scars of war last generations. Destroyed buildings can one day be rebuilt, but shattered limbs do not regrow. Children re-live trauma long after the bomb blasts subside. Family members killed leave a permanent void," Maurer said in the statement.

During his visit to Afghanistan, Maurer met Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy prime minister of the newly established caretaker administration, as well as other members of the Taliban leadership.

He said the ICRC will continue to assist Afghans affected by the war.

"The toll from only the most recent fighting has been huge. More than 41,000 people wounded by war were treated at ICRC-supported health facilities from June to August, an 80 per cent increase compared with the same period last year," he said.

He also noted that the quality medical care is a top concern for Afghan families, saying that "last month the ICRC doubled the number of health facilities we support to 89 clinics and mobile health teams, up from 46, in addition to two hospitals, one in Kandahar and the other in Kabul, which is run by the Afghanistan Red Crescent Society".

"We want to enhance access to immunizations and primary health care, including for pregnant women. Sadly, clinics are seeing a rise in the number of children wounded by newly laid mines. De-mining efforts must be prioritized, for the sake of all the naturally curious children who one day soon may pick up a mine and lose a limb or their life." The outcome of 40 years of war in Afghanistan, according to Maurer, is that some nine out of 10 people live on less than $2 a day.

"Some 10 million people are experiencing high levels of food insecurity in the country." In a country where only 50 per cent of women deliver in a health facility with trained staff, it's critically important that Afghanistan have more educated women midwives and doctors, Maurer said, adding he has encouraged authorities to continue access to health services and education for women.

"My greatest hope now is that we all pitch in to help the wounded to heal, separated families to find one another again, and that any future fighting spares as many civilians as possible," he said.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, Sep 9 : The drivers and conductors of Tamil Nadu state transport corporation buses will be imparted training in good behaviour towards women. After the state government announced free travel for women in the government buses, scores of complaints have been coming on a daily basis from various bus stations regarding insults showered on women.

Sudha Selvaraj, an employee of a private company in Trichy told IANS, "We are being treated as second class citizens in the Tamil Nadu buses. I feel insulted daily hearing the bad words from the bus drivers and conductors. I have sent a complaint to the Tamil Nadu minister for transport and if there is no action, will try to send a letter to the Chief Minister." While the government has announced and implemented the scheme of free travel to women and transpeople in buses of Tamil Nadu, the lower-level workers have not fully assimilated the spirit of the decision.

Tamil Nadu Minister for Transport, R.S. Rajakannappan told IANS, "It is unfortunate and I have also received some complaints. The transport ministry will be conducting training programmes for the drivers and conductors on behaviour towards women, and eminent social scientists will take the classes.

"The classes will be conducted at the district level. Transport department will take stringent action against those bus employees who have indulged in insulting and showering abuses to women and police will also register cases and act accordingly." While the state government and the Tamil Nadu transport department had conducted several workshops on behavioural sciences, the result seems to have not been percolated down the order.

Mahalakshmi, a 70 year old woman at Triplicane, Chennai while speaking to IANS said, "The driver used to insult me whenever I board a bus. They used to make lewd comments that we are guests and that the government of Tamil Nadu has done a wrong thing in providing free rides to women. Young women are subjected to more teasing and insults." Dr. R. Rajeev, Psychologist and a regular at classes on behavioural sciences told IANS, "Some people have the illusion that the organisation where they work is owned by them and while women travel in the state transport buses, these drivers and conductors believe as if they are on the losing side. Moreover, some people do not give respect to women at all and these factors are underlying beneath such behaviour. This can be corrected after a few sessions and let us see how it is working out." In some cases, driven to the wall, women have filed police complaints. Helen Antony, who is working as a helper in a school in Chennai, told IANS, "I have lodged a complaint in the police station against a bus conductor for having insulted me for a long. The police have called me to depose before the SHO on Friday. I will not withdraw the complaint. A government that has announced a scheme with good intentions is being taken to task by the rude behaviour of certain people and there has to be a solution to this." If the state government authorities are not taking this seriously, a proposal which was implemented on good intention may soon boomerang on the government and the DMK. With the local body elections round the corner, the government officials are in course correction and to clear the issue as early as possible.
Hyderabad, Sep 9 : Tollywood actor Ravi Teja and his driver on Thursday appeared before the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering probe linked to the 2017 drug case.

The popular actor reached the ED office here around 10 a.m. in response to the summons issued by the agency.

Ravi Teja's driver and aide Srinivas also appeared before the ED officials. Both are likely to be questioned about their financial transactions.

Key accused Calvin Mascarenhas is also likely to be called for questioning again. His statement was recorded on Tuesday and the celebrities are being quizzed on the basis of his statement.

Ravi Teja is the sixth Tollywood personality to appear before ED. Director Puri Jagannadh and actors Charmee Kaur, Rakul Preet Singh, Nandu and Daggubati Rana were questioned since August 31.

Rana was questioned for nearly seven hours on Wednesday as part of the probe into suspected links of some celebrities with the accused involved in the case.

The ED had last month issued notices to 10 persons connected to Tollywood and two others including a private club manager as part of a money laundering probe linked to the case related to the smuggling of 'Class A' narcotic substances, including LSD and MDMA.

Actors Navdeep, Mumaith Khan and Tanish have also been summoned by the ED in connection the drugs racket which was busted with the arrest of drug peddlers in 2017.

Rana and Rakul Preet did not figure in the list of Tollywood celebrities questioned by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Telangana's prohibition and excise department in 2017.

However, Rakul Preet was questioned by the Narcotics Control Bureau, Mumbai, last year in an alleged drugs nexus in Bollywood.

The drugs racket was busted on July 2, 2017 when customs officials arrested Calvin Mascarenhas, a musician, and two others and seized drugs worth Rs 30 lakh from their possession.

They had reportedly told the investigators that they are supplying drugs to film celebrities, software engineers, and even students of some corporate schools. Mobile numbers of some Tollywood celebrities were allegedly found in their contact lists.

The excise department had constituted SIT for a comprehensive probe. A total of 12 cases were registered, 30 people were arrested while 62 individuals including 11 people connected with Tollywood were examined by the SIT under section 67 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and section 161 of Criminal Procedure Code.

An American, a South African and a Netherlands national were among those arrested.

The SIT had collected blood, hair, nail and other samples from some of those who appeared before it for question and sent them for analysis.

The SIT filed charge sheet in eight out of 12 cases. It, however, gave clean chit to the film personalities who were questioned as part of the investigation.
Series: Mumbai Diaries 26/11 (Streaming on Amazon Prime).

Duration: Eight episodes, each lasting for roughly 40 minutes.

Directors: Nikkhil Advani and Nikhil Gonsalves.

Cast: Konkona Sen Sharma, Mohit Raina, Shreya Dhanwanthary, Natasha Bharadwaj, Mrunmayee Deshpande, Satyajeet Dubey, Prakash Belawadi and Tina Desai

Rating: ***1/2

This fictionalised series depicting the Mumbai terrorist attacks of November 26, 2008, will definitely generate a polarised opinion. Not because of how it is made, but for the subject itself.

From the onset, melodramatic to the core, the scenes packed with chaos and showing up human frailties, follies and idiosyncrasies, there's something deeply unsettling about the series. It just brings back the pain and if you revel in watching others in pain, then this series is for you.

For those who may not be fully aware about the Mumbai terrorist attacks, this series gives you an insight into how the entire event unfolded, but it can't be taken seriously as a history lesson.

The series made up of eight episodes gives you an account of how the terrorists, on a killing spree, shooting random people at sight, created mayhem in the city. It focuses on events that took place at Leopold Cafe, Bombay General Hospital and Palace Hotel. These venues are conveniently and by default connected by the act of the terrorists and by characters helming rescue operations in the respective places.

The characters are fictional for most part and come with plenty of dramatic embellishments that supplement the basic story. Along the way, phones run out of battery, colleagues get separated or killed, and egotism and religious profiling create tension.

The performance of the entire cast is natural and simply brilliant. The look of sincerity that Mohit Raina offers as Dr Kaushik Oberoi, the maverick and sought-after head of the Emergency Ward of BG Hospital working under pressure despite having martial issues, cannot be missed.

He is aptly supported by three new junior doctors -- Dr Ahaan Mirza (Satyajeet Dubey), Dr Sujata (Mrunmayee Deshpande) and Dr Diya Parekh (Natasha Bharadwaj) -- who join him on that fateful day. How they carry on with their duties with evident hesitation, is palpable.

Prakash Belawadi, as the CEO and Dean of BGH, Konkona Sen Sharma as the head of Social Service, Tina Desai as Dr Kaushik's wife Ananya, Pushkaraj Chirputkar as the male nurse and the rest of the supporting cast are simply the characters themselves.

Technically, with ace production values, the series is heavy on atmosphere and mood. The directors' filmmaking talent and unflinching command of camera and action, manage to mentally and physically place the viewers among the countless victims and survivors of the horrific attack.

DOP Kaushal Shah's camera work is smooth and fluid, capturing the events close and up-front. The editing too is seamless. Overall, it is a well-mounted series. But...

As mentioned earlier, this series will definitely generate a debate in the mind of the viewers. And you'd be mentally juggling questions on the ethics of the subject.

Does this series help inspire and glorify humanity, or is it entertaining? Nah... it just opens up old wounds. This quote from one of the characters in the series -- "It's important to mourn, but it is equally important to move ahead in life" -- rightly applies to the series itself.

(Troy Ribeiro can be contacted at troy.r@ians.in)

-- Syndicated from IANS
New York, Sep 9 : The Jonas Brothers are gearing up to release their new single 'Who's In Your Head'. The brothers, who are currently on their 'Remember This Tour', premiered the new song while performing at the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre in Colorado.

The group posted a video on TikTok featuring concert footage of them performing the unreleased track at Red Rocks, along with some information in the caption to hold their fans over. The trio wrote, "Right now you're listening to our new song...we just performed it for the first time at Red Rocks on the Remember This tour. The song is called 'Who's in Your Head' and it drops on September 17th!," according to Billboard.com.

After their performance, they posted photos to their Instagram and Twitter accounts from their Red Rocks show. "So much love at Red Rocks last night. Thank you all for a night we'll never forget! #RememberThisTour," they captioned the photos.

The single 'Who's In Your Head' will release on streaming platforms everywhere on September 17.

The Jonas Brothers are an American pop-rock band. Formed in 2005, they gained popularity from their appearances on the Disney Channel television network. They consist of three brothers: Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Nick Jonas.

The brothers wrote their first record that made its Hollywood Records release. In mid-2008, they starred in the Disney Channel Original Movie 'Camp Rock' and its sequel, 'Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam'. The band have released five albums: 'It's About Time', 'Jonas Brothers', 'A Little Bit Longer', 'Lines, Vines and Trying Times', and 'Happiness Begins'.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Afghanistans new Acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund has called on former officials who fled when the Taliban seized power last month to return to the country, saying the group "will guarantee their security and safety", Al Jazeera reported.

In an interview with Al Jazeera on Wednesday, Akhund also said that the caretaker government would guarantee the security of diplomats, embassies and humanitarian relief institutions, stressing that the group wanted to establish positive and strong relations with countries in the region and beyond.

Akhund, a close associate and political adviser to the late Mullah Omar, the founder of the Taliban and its first supreme leader, said the movement's leaders faced "a great responsibility and test" towards the Afghan people.

"We have suffered huge losses in money and lives for this historical moment in the history of Afghanistan," Akhund added.

"The stage of bloodshed, killing and contempt for people in Afghanistan has ended, and we have paid dearly for this." Akhund also reiterated the Taliban's promise of amnesty for anyone who has worked alongside the US and the administration it backed following its 2001 invasion, the report said.

"No one will be able to prove that he was subjected to revenge. And in such tense circumstances, it is easy to do what you want. But the movement is disciplined and controls its gunmen. And, we have not harmed anyone because of his previous actions," he said.

On Tuesday night, the Taliban announced the formation of Afghanistan's caretaker government, with Akhund appointed as Acting Prime Minister.

In a statement following the announcement, the Taliban's supreme leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada, said the urgent task would be to carry out reconstruction and rehabilitation, and the country would seek "strong and healthy relations" with its neighbours and all other countries.

Besides the appointment of Akhund, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar and Abdul Salam Hanafi were named acting Deputy Prime Ministers, while Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, son of Mullah Omar, was appointed as Acting Defense Minister.

Amir Khan Muttaqi was appointed as Acting Foreign Minister, and Sarajuddin Haqqani, son of the founder of the Haqqani Network terror group, was named Acting Interior Minister.

According to the Taliban, the appointments were not final as these were acting positions, and the remaining posts would be announced later.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Colombo, Sep 9 : The Sri Lanka Catholic Church has vowed to complain to the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva against the governments failure to carry out justice for the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings.

The UNHRC is also probing Sri Lanka on alleged war crimes committed during three decades-long war against the Tamil Tiger rebels.

Sri Lanka will be discussed at the 48th Session of the UNHRC scheduled to start on September 13.

Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith told the media on Wednesday that he would seek justice from the international as the government was trying to hide the truth.

The Church was responding to Cabinet spokesman's announcement that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa will go to Italy on Thursday and would meet Pope Francis to brief him on the investigations into the bombings that killed 269 people and injured over 500 others.

"The government is trying to mislead the Vatican and hide the truth behind the Easter Sunday attack. Hiding behind the international is childish.

"We cannot allow this government to deceive the international community. If the government is going to international we are also going to international," Cardinal Ranjith said.

The Colombo Archdiocesan head revealed that he has already informed the Vatican about the slow pace of the investigations and the Vatican has undertaken to complain to Geneva through its representative there.

However hours after strong reply by the Church on Wednesday, the government announced that the Prime mInister would not meet the Pope nor visit Vatican City.

"At no stage has the Prime Minister requested nor has he received an invitation to visit the Vatican for an audience with His Holiness, the Pope," Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said in a statement.

Last month, the Church complained that a section of Sri Lanka's military intelligent had connections with the 2019 suicide bombers who were suspected to have connections with the Islamic State terror group.

Cardinal Ranjith had complained about an alleged link between the military intelligent and suicide bombers that was revealed during the Presidential Commission of Inquiry (PCoI) in to the series of coordinated suicide bombings.

The Cardinal also had said that Indian intelligent agencies had shared detailed information about the attack including the date repeatedly but the Sri Lankan military had not taken action to prevent the massacre.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
September 09 : Filmmaker Amit Ravindernath Sharma, who will direct Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan starrer The Intern, has roped in Neena Gupta in the film. Amit Sharmas Badhaai Ho changed Neena Guptas acting career, which was going down as filmmakers were not recognising her talent.

Deepika Padukone, who turned a producer with Chhapaak, announced in April last year the Hindi remake of Hollywood hit The Intern. Sharing details about the film, Deepika had said, The Intern is an intimate, relationship-driven film, set in and around the workplace; a story that I believe is very relevant to the present-day social and cultural environment. I have been looking for a light, breezy comedy-drama and this story fits in seamlessly. I cannot wait to begin this journey."

Amit Sharma will direct The Intern with the adapted screenplay and dialogues being penned by Akshat Ghildial and Mitesh Shah. Amitabh Bachchan and Deepika will reunite once again after their earlier film Piku. Now with Neena Gupta coming on board, she will also reunite with Big B after their upcoming film Goodbye. Originally, Rishi Kapoor was playing Amitabh Bachchans role. After his death last year, Big B stepped into the role.

Coming back to Neena Gupta, the actress earlier said that Badhaai Ho turned the fortunes of her career. Amit Sharma has also said that he will cast the two actors of Badhaai HoNeena Gupta and Gajraj Rao wherever he can in his films. Neena Gupta has expressed her gratitude to Amit Sharma for the role in Badhaai Ho, after which she has come in demand and filmmakers are trying to rope her in their films.

While Amit Sharma cast Gajraj Rao in a solid role in his film Maidaan, starring Ajay Devgan, he brought Neena Gupta in The Intern.
Chandigarh, Sep 9 : Liberal incumbent MP, Sonia Sidhu, who is re-contesting from Canada's Brampton South, on Thursday condemned a hate crime against a 23-year-old Sikh man, saying they must continue their fight to eradicate it.

"My heart goes out to the family and loved ones of Prabhjot Singh Katri who was killed in Truro, NS (Nova Scotia). This is an unacceptable act of hate," Sidhu said in a tweet.

"Hate, online hate, violence and racism have no place in our country and we must continue our fight to eradicate it," she added.

Singh, who came to Canada from Punjab in 2017 to study, was killed in the early hours of September 5 at an apartment building in Truro.

Truro police chief Dave MacNeil said officers responded to 494 Robie St. around 2 a.m. that morning, where they found Singh with life-threatening injuries.

He was taken to hospital in Colchester, where he later died.

Singh's family and friends, many in the Indian-Canadian community, fear this was a hate crime as nothing was robbed from him. The police believed a case of homicide.

The victim's cousin, Maninder Singh, said he worked two jobs to finically support his family in India.

"He was so nice. We didn't imagine that this could happen," he said.

After completing his studies, Singh was on a work visa and applying for permanent residency in Canada.
Bengaluru, Sep 9 : The genomic sequencing report submitted to the Karnataka government has suggested that SARS-CoV-2 virus is changing and currently the Delta and sub-lineages of Delta are spreading across Bengaluru Urban and picking up new mutations.

The report said, of these mutations, N439 mutant has already exihibited potential to increase the fitness of the virus.

The report cautioned: "We need to monitor any increase in the frequency of these mutations. As that might be a signal for a new variant, which may not be covered by the protection from vaccines," the report quoted in bold letters.

This report comes ahead of a similar report of results of 300 samples sent for genomic sequencing is expected to be released soon and discussed by the Committee for Covid-19 Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) which is to meet on Thursday for discussing the findings.

Strand Precision Medicine Sciences, a genomics-based research and diagnostics company mandated to conduct genomic sequencing by the Karnataka government to help detect trends in mutations has submitted its report to the health ministry on September 1.

The report has also been sent to the Karnataka Covid Task Force, Chairman of Genomic Surveillance Committee, Karnataka; Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) Commissioner and health commissioner, BBMP.

Samples processed include 34 sequences from children, 28 sequences from vaccinated individuals, partial as well as fully vaccinated and 6 fully vaccinated individuals. The investigations were conducted on 298 complete sequences.

The outputs suggested the identification of four lineages and all are delta or sub-lineages of delta. The report also said, three lineages, Delta and two sub-lineages of Delta AY.4 and AY.12 were found across Bengaluru Urban and in all groups.

The report also spoke about new mutations. "This sequencing showed 133 mutations in spike protein alone. Many of these are known mutations," the report said.

"We found several new mutations at low frequency (>0.3percent<4.5percent) in the spike protein in the 439-446 positions, in delta, ay.4 and ay.12. some of these are novel and not yet reported in global databases," the report mentioned.

N439K mutant found in 7 sequences, N440Y/T/F mutant in 8 sequences, L441Y/S/G/A/C/D/V found in 7 sequences, D4421/V/Y/F in 9 sequences, S443E/V/Y/W/F in 7 sequences, K444F/N/V/T/S/V mutants found in 7 sequences.

However, experts opine that Genomic sequencing results are not a cause for worry as most samples collected from persons who were being treated at home.

Strand Precision Medicine Solutions was tasked with the responsibility of study of mutations through genome sequencing by the Covid Task Force in Karnataka. The sequencing indicated 30 percent mutation in the Delta AY.4 variant and 3 percent in AY.12 mutant.

Total 298 swabs were collected from Covid-19 patients in Bengaluru for genomic sequencing also showed that Delta and its sub-lineages AY4 & A12 were found to be dominant across the age groups in Bengaluru.

The test also showed that, Covid virus was changing and Delta's sub-lineages are spread across Bengaluru urban areas and new mutations are being reported.

--IANS mka/in

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Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Colombo, Sep 9 : Amidst 40 deaths and 5,500 Covid-19 infections among expectant mothers, Sri Lankan medical experts have urged couples to delay pregnancies at least by a year.

Harsha Atapattu, a gynaecologist attached to a leading government-run maternal hospital, warned that the highly-transmissible Delta variant has posed serious threats to pregnant women and their unborn children.

"Getting infected with Covid during the pregnancy is extremely dangerous. It could affect the mother and the baby," Atapattu said.

"Initially we said there was no threat from Covid to pregnant women but due to Delta variant this has changed. We see daily there are new variants emerging.

"In medical terms a year is a long time. During this break we would have sufficient time to study Covid-19 virus variants, its effect on the mothers and the child and the side effects of the vaccines. There might be even a better vaccines coming in," Atapattu said at a media briefing.

The senior gynaecologist also urged to use reliable family planning methods but ruled out using condom as it could be damaged and cannot rely on.

"Condoms may be recommend for elderly people but not for you young couples," he said.

Sri Lanka has urged all expectant mothers to get vaccinated as early as possible.

Chithramali de Silva, Director of the Family Health Bureau (FHB) announced at least 75 per cent of pregnant mothers have received at least one jab.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : It is important to respect the sanctity of any cuisine, as it is deeply rooted in culture, says Chef Anurudh Khanna, Multi Property Executive Chef at Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi. Having curated a food festival that brings to town culinary treasures from the Tamil city of Tiruchirapalli, Chef Khanna highlights that there are many misconceptions relating to cuisine from Southern Indian states, which make for a rich culinary bouquet in themselves.

Chef Khanna speaks to IANSlife on the sidelines of 'Treaures of Trichy' food festival which is going on at Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi till September 15. Excerpts: Could you tell me about the inspiration behind 'Treasures of Trichy'?

Khanna: While planning a food festival, we were just thinking which cuisine and Indian state to tap into. We looked at the resources in our culinary team at Westin - here someone is from Uttarakhand, from Nepal, southern states, Rajasthan, Bengal - so it's quite varied. Our resident South Indian chef, Chef Vijaykumar is from Tiruchirapalli, who is with us from 2019. That's where we thought of putting this cuisine in the front, and making him the main chef for food festival.

There are many variations in what is singularly thought of as 'South Indian cuisine'. As a chef, what do you have to say about this? Khanna: I also discovered this, during my last assignment in Bangalore where I traveled to Mangalore, Kerala, and to Andhra. As I travelled I realised that the cuisine is changing. Dishes even 'sambhar' and 'rasam change. Andhra-style 'sambhar' is very spicy in some places and a little sweet-ish in others. Not just the palate changes from state to state, but breakfast 'sambhar' is different from all-day 'sambhar'. The Spice level matters a lot. For example, Kannada cuisine is not that spicy, Mangalore cuisine is rich with spices, Andhra cuisine is heavy on chillies but Kerala cuisine is very fragrant.

About the stereotype, yes there are a lot of misconceptions about food among people who are not native to south Indian states or who haven't traveled much. They think South Indian cuisine is mostly just 'idli, sambhar, dosa, vada', and there are a lot of varieties of dosa. But in reality, South Indian cuisine is immense.

Chefs are experimenting with fusion styles, for instance, something like a dosa-flavoured burger. Any opinions? Khanna: As a chef, I'd say it should not be done. A little twist to the recipe is acceptable but changing the recipe upside-down is not. Food is an element very rooted in culture. You can be just a little bit around culture, adapt but complete 180-degree changes and fusions, are not my food philosophy. Let's keep the sanctity of the cuisine as it is. It is different from doing multi-grain dosa or ragi dosa, even variations in stuffing is possible.

What's next, when it comes to food festivals at the Westin? Khanna: Next would be regional as well. I'd discover some more regional talent from my team first. Maybe I could do a travel flow within Uttar Pradesh, and bring out regional variations among UP dishes." (Siddhi Jain can be contacted at siddhi.j@ians.in)
September 09 : Ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi that starts on September 11, the makers of Antim: The Final Truth dropped the song Vighnaharta that features Varun Dhawan in a special appearance along with Salman Khan and Aayush Sharma. While Salman plays a cop, Aayush will essay the role of the antagonist.

Vighnaharta is sung by Ajay Gogavale, with music by Hitesh Modak and lyrics by Vaibhav Joshi. The three-minute music video opens with Varun Dhawan grooving to a Ganesh Chaturthi song in front of a giant Ganpati idol. Amid his aggressive dance moves, Salman Khan joins in in his police officers uniform. In between the song he is also seen in action shots as he finally locks horn with Aayush, not before both take off their shirts.

In between the song, Salman is seen involved in shootouts and fistfights as he shoots people at point-blank range, break a glass bottle on a person's neck, and also throws wooden furniture at them. The song also gives a glimpse of Aayush engaged in a prison fight.

Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar and produced by Salman Khan under the banner of Salman Khan Films, Antim: The Final Truth is an action thriller starring Salman Khan, Aayush Sharma and Pragya Jaiswal in the lead roles. The film is based on the 2018 Marathi film Mulshi Pattern. While Salman plays a Sikh cop, Aayush will be seen in the role of a gangster Rahuliya in the film. A teaser with Aayushs look was released in February this year. Before the makers could announce its October release date, the country was struck by the second wave of the coronavirus.

Aayush made his acting debut with the romantic drama Loveyatri. He will also be seen in Kwatha, co-starring Katrina Kaif's sister Isabelle. Salman Khan, on the other hand, is currently in Europe, shooting for Tiger 3 along with Katrina Kaif. After completing the Russia schedule, Salman and Katrina has moved to Turkey for a few days shoot schedule.

Latest updates on Ganesh Chaturthi Festival 2021
Hyderabad, Sep 9 : The Telangana High Court on Thursday directed authorities not to allow immersion of Ganesh idols made of Plaster of Paris in the Hussain Sagar lake here.

The court also imposed certain restrictions on immersion and asked authorities to build a rubber dam and take other necessary steps to check the pollution in the water body in the heart of the city.

A bench of acting Chief Justice M. S. Ramachandra Rao and Justice T. Vinod Kumar pronounced the orders reserved on Tuesday.

The court directed the government, Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) and the police to strictly follow its orders.

The bench pronounced orders on a contempt petition filed by advocate Mamidi Venu Madhav for not implementing the court's orders in the writ petition filed by him seeking a direction to restrain people from immersing idols made of plaster of Paris in Hussain Sagar lake.

The court ordered that immersion of idols made of paris should not be allowed in Hussain Sagar lake. It said such idols may be immersed in special ponds created for the purpose.

The court said instead of allowing immersion in the entire lake, the authorities should build a rubber dam to confine it to a limited area and after the immersion, the debris should be cleared.

It directed the authorities not to allow immersion of idols from Tank Bund. The immersion can be allowed from other sides like PV Marg, Necklace Road and Sanjeevaiah Park road.

The court also asked the authorities to take steps to make sure that devotees from far-off places don't come to Hussain Sagar for immersion. They were directed to encourage immersion of idols locally and observed that devotees can immerse small idols in buckets at their homes.

The authorities were directed not to encourage idols made of materials harmful to the environment. The court also made it clear that authorities should not allow installation of idols on roads which block vehicular traffic.

The court also imposed restrictions on cultural programmes during the festivities. It said use of loud speakers should not be allowed after 10 p.m.

The bench also wanted authorities to ensure adherence to Covid-19 protocol during festivities. The authorities were directed to ensure social distancing and wearing of masks.

The 10-day long Ganesh festival is beginning on Friday. The festivities will conclude on September 19 with immersion.

Every year hundreds of idols are immersed in Hussain Sagar. Huge idols are brought to the lake in a mammoth procession which starts from Balapur on the city outskirts.

NGOs, environmental activists and eminent citizens have been voicing concern over the pollution in the lake and demanding curbs on immersion.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : A set of 112 diamonds, originally belonging to Queen Marie-Antoinette of France (1755-1793), will go under the hammer on November 9. Presented in their current form, the 112 diamonds are set as a historic pair of bracelets, estimated to sell for between as massive $2,000,000-4,000,000 or Rs 14.7-29.4 crores.

They will be auctioned under the live Magnificent Jewels Auction in Geneva by the auction house Christie's.

In 1776, Marie Antoinette had been Queen of France for two years and was already recognised as the queen of elegance and style. According to the auction house, the same year she bought these two diamond bracelets for 250,000 livres, a huge sum at the time.

According to Count Mercy-Argenteau, Austria's Ambassador to France, they were paid partly in gemstones from the Queen's collection and partly with funds the Queen received from King Louis XVI, says Christie's. The Ambassador later took office in Brussels and in January 1791, received a letter from Queen Marie-Antoinette, then a prisoner in the Tuileries in Paris, after the French Revolution overthrew the monarchy.

"It announced that a wooden chest would be sent to him for safekeeping. Mercy-Argenteau stored it unopened for the next couple of years. In October 1793, Marie Antoinette was guillotined and in February next year, Emperor Francis II of Austria ordered the chest to be opened in Brussels and an inventory to be made." "It read as 'Item no. 6 - A pair of bracelets where three diamonds, with the biggest set in the middle, form two barrettes; the two barrettes serve as clasps, each comprising four diamonds and 96 collet-set diamonds'. Madame Royale, the surviving daughter of the late queen, received these jewels in January 1796 upon her arrival in Austria," said the auction house.

In a 1816 portrait, Madame Royale is wearing a pair of diamond bracelets consistent with the Brussels inventory. Madame Royale died childless on in 1851. Her will stated that the entirety of her jewellery collection - including Marie Antoinette's jewels - was to be divided among her three nieces and nephews.

Of the pieces with a traceable provenance back to the Queen of France, these extraordinary bracelets are the only example to include diamonds belonging to her and to retain the exact design described in the Brussels inventory. While it is possible that the bracelets might have been remounted at a later stage, no changes were made to the overall composition and the number of diamonds, except for those on the clasp, were kept identical as per the inventory, reveals the auction house.

(Siddhi Jain can be contacted at siddhi.j@ians.in)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Chennai, Sep 9 : Four women were killed when the passenger van in which they were travelling rammed into a water tanker lorry on Thursday morning at Sillanathanam village in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district.

The deceased women identified as G. Selvaranai (48), Santhiya (48), Jothi ( 40) and Manimeghalai (20) were workers of a home decor firm in the district.

Police said that the van was carrying 17 women workers of a home decor company, when it dashed against a water tanker.

Sources said that the accident was due to the rash driving of the driver of the van who tried taking the women to the company before 6.30 a.m. when the attendance punching commences.

A total of 13 women workers in the van other than four dead suffered injuries. Drivers of the van and lorry were also injured thus taking the total injured in the accident to 15. Bodies of the four women have been sent for post-mortem before being handed over to the relatives.

Puthiyamathur Police rushed to the spot for rescue operations and to remove the injured to the hospitals. Police and local people helped retrieve the bodies from the van which was badly mangled. The locals and police cut open the van and then took those who were trapped inside the van to the Thoothukudi Government Medical College hospital.
Karnal, Sep 9 : Suspension of internet services has turned out to be a major problem for the locals in Karnal as the ongoing farmers protest at mini secretariat has entered into the third day on Thursday.

The local residents and businesses owners are facing problems in digital transactions which are affecting their daily businesses.

The internet services were suspended in the five adjoining districts of Kurukshetra, Jind, Kaithal, Panipat and Karnal. However, the services have been restored in the four districts except Karnal. The agitating farmers have appealed to the local administration to resume the internet service in the area.

Talking to IANS, Farmers Union leader Gurunam Singh Chaduni said, "Shutting down Internet service is an attack on our right of expression. Every one has the right to speak and express. But, the administration is infringing on our rights".

"We put our views on social media but they have put a curb on this and we are unable to reach out to the lakhs of sympathisers of farmers. We appeal to the local administration to resume the internet services at the earliest", said the farmer leader.

A local business owner Sumit Sikka said that we are supporting the farmers agitation but the internet suspension is badly affecting our business. "We are unable to do the any digital transction from last two or three days. Seeing the agitation, customers are also not willing to come outside", he said. Since the onset of this agitation, we have observed a sharp fifty per cent decline in the customers, he added further.

Lakhvinder who works outside the mini secretariat as typist said that our business has been paralyzed without having internet access. He added that the locals are not coming outside due to the agitaion.

Taxi driver Jagjinder Singh said that we are not getting any customers in absence of internet service as they do only the online booking.

In absence of the internet services, both - the locals and the agitating farmers are facing similar problems of not being connected with the rest of the world. They are not able to send and receive any messages and do their digital transactions. The city's residents say that the government should restore the internet services as the protest will continue for longer time.
Chennai, Sep 9 : The Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) has welcomed the resolution adopted by the Tamil Nadu legislative Assembly against the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA).

Thol Thirumavalavan, MP and VCK president in a statement on Wednesday said, "The Union government has been stating that it will implement a National Register of Citizens based on CAA. It is arguing that every citizen in India should prove that they are indeed citizens by showing the documents of their forefathers.

"Several crores of Indians do not have any land or property in India and could end up losing their citizenship. The state government should hence urge the Union government to stop the NRC exercise." The VCK leader said that the CAA would lead to major uncertainty among the people of the country.

Speaking to IANS, Thol Thirumavalavan said, "The DMK government by moving a Bill against the CAA has given great justice to the people of Tamil Nadu. Political parties in this country must stand up against the draconian laws being brought forward by the Government of India under Prime Minister Narendra Modi." The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee also welcomed the resolution against the Citizen Amendment Act (CAA).

The state president of TNCC, K.S.Alagiri in a statement on Thursday said, "The CAA is against the Constitution of India and the Narendra Modi government is trying to subvert the basic rights of the citizens of India. The Constitution gives the right to propagate and follow any religion in this country and the CAA snatches away this right and is clearly unconstitutional." The Tamil Nadu Congress president also said that the party has always been in the forefront against the CAA and said that the Tamil Nadu unit of the party has conducted several programmes opposing the CAA which was against the constitution of the country.

Alagiri told IANS, "The Tamil Nadu government under Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has passed a resolution against the CAA which is anti-constitutional and we welcome this. The Congress party was at the forefront in the opposition to the CAA in the country and we have conducted protests across Tamil Nadu. We welcome the decision of the Tamil Nadu government in passing this resolution."
Ankara, Sep 9 : Turkey and Egypt finalised the second round of talks for reconciliation of bilateral ties and agreed to continue political consultations.

"The two sides agreed to continue these consultations, confirming their desire to make progress in areas under discussion and the need for further steps to facilitate normalization of their relations," a statement by the Turkish Foreign Ministry said after two-day talks in the Turkish capital of Ankara.

The second round of consultations was held between the delegations from the two sides, who addressed bilateral issues as well as a number of regional topics, such as the situations in Libya, Syria, Palestine and the Eastern Mediterranean, Xinhua news agency quoted the statement as saying.

On May 5, the two countries held the first round of normalisation talks in the Egyptian capital of Cairo, the first direct high-level meeting held by the two sides since 2013.

The relations between Ankara and Cairo deteriorated in 2013 following the ouster of former Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, who was supported by Turkey.
Mumbai, Sep 9 : Actress Yami Gautam got a chance to extensively explore her home state of Himachal Pradesh during the shooting of her latest film 'Bhoot Police'.

Being born in the region and having a constant romance with the mountains, the actress unveils how the shooting experience of the film re-established her sense of belonging with the mountains.

Yami told IANS: "We were shooting under tough weather conditions because the cold was bitter. There were a lot of outdoor sequences and keeping the light and weather in mind, we had to pack a lot within a day, every day. But I was ready to battle all that because whenever I am in Himachal, I feel a sense of belonging...when I see the sunrise, those snowcapped mountains and realise the fact that I am born in Himachal...this is my birthplace, it really gives me goosebumps! "It feels so spiritual for me that I feel if there is God, He exists there...in the silence, in the mountain, the snow and I feel that I get the best hug from Mother Nature. You know every day, after finishing our shoot, when I would looked outside the window from my car, even though I was exhausted and even though I know I had very few hours of sleep...when I would looked at those mountains all through my drive from the film set to our hotel, I felt recharged." The film 'Bhoot Police' is a horror-comedy that is directed by Pavan Kirpalani, produced by Ramesh Taurani, Akshai Puri and it also stars Saif Ali Khan, Arjun Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez and Jaaved Jaafery.

The film was shot last year when the 'Unlock' process started and following the Covid protocols, the cast and crew had to live in a bio-bubble. Due to the same reason, Yami had a working birthday as well as Diwali.

However, she said instead of regretting not visiting her family during Diwali, she took a chance to celebrate with the team of 'Bhoot Police'.

"I arranged for traditional 'Pahari' food, our 'Pahari Dham', that we eat during Diwali and it was like my chance to share the joy and our 'Pahari' culture to all my co-stars and crew members. I must say, Saif is a foodie and he enjoyed all our traditional food the most. We celebrated Diwali in a 'Pahari' way. On my birthday, which was a working birthday, Jacqueline took the effort of giving me a surprise party and brought some beautiful gifts from the local shop...I found that a very warm gesture," shared Yami.

The 'Vicky Donor' actress further added, "I was born in Himachal, brought up in Chandigarh. But I always visited Himachal because my relatives live there. This time, during the entire shooting of our film, somewhere my connection with Himachal has got re-established and I feel proud to be a Himachali, a 'Pahari'! I am not exaggerating when I am saying, I belong to the mountains." 'Bhoot Police' releases on September 10 on Disney+ Hotstar.

(Arundhuti Banerjee can be contacted at arundhuti.b@ians.in)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Keeping its nefarious eye on Jammu and Kashmir, the Pakistan's intelligence wing - Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) has been sending the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) cadre to the Pak occupied Kashmir (PoK) with an aim to hit J&K in a big way.

As per the latest intelligence inputs, these ISKP cadres were released from the Afghanistan jails recently and had returned to Pakistan and now the ISI has instructed to execute its terror agenda in the Valley.

The sources have revealed that the security agencies in Kashmir have tracked the movement and presence of ISKP commander Munsib who has been reportedly coordinating with various terror outfits for this purpose. He has been quite active on social media for the past few months, they added.

Around 25 youths from Kerala have recently gone to Afghanistan and had joined the ISKP cadre, now the inputs are coming that ISI can use those radicalised youths of Kerala to carry out attacks in India, the sources further said, adding that their movements are on the agencies' radar.

After the Taliban occupation in Afghanistan, now the ISI has been actively planning to push its trained and supported terror outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e Taiba and al-Badr into the union territory for the last two months and now the ISKP ultras to various launch pads in PoK along with the line of control, the sources in the intelligence agencies also revealed.

The intelligence inputs also confirmed that the launch pads in Pakistan have been humming with activities near the border indicating an increase in planning for infiltration. These launch pads were abandoned after a ceasefire was announced in February this year.

Indian security agencies are also getting inputs that the presence of Pashtun speaking terrorists in some of the terrorist camps located in PoK, which has increased the possibilities of ISKP ultras in these launch pads near the border areas in Jammu and Kashmir.

"The J&K Police is aggressively trying to track down those over-ground workers who can give shelter to foreign terrorists and make their mission even easier. They are constantly trying to ensure that the infiltrating terrorists do not find any hideout or take shelter in the villages of Kashmir", a senior official in the security set up said.

Reiterating zero tolerance to terrorism, CRPF Director General Kuldeep Singh and J&K Police Chief Dilbagh Singh have said that the security forces are on high alert and ready to handle security situation arising from the development in Afghanistan even if they try to infiltrate with latest weapons.
Mumbai, Sep 9 : Filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar has praised actor Aayush Sharma as he shot for the song 'Vighnaharta' from his upcoming film 'Antim: The Final Truth' with an injured and fractured palm.

Earlier in January this year, Aayush talked about suffering an injury on the sets of the film while shooting.

Talking about Aayush, Manjrekar said: "One thing I loved the most is, he was possessed, for him 'Antim' was do or die. He was so dedicated to the character, he became 'Rahuliya'. During the shoot of the song, one day I had to go early and only a few minor action sequences were left, so I went home." The filmmaker added: "Next day, first thing in the morning I got to know, in the action scene, he accidentally hit a camera during a close up shot which broke his fingers. Since we had a lot of scenes and shots pending, I was slightly worried, but I was amazed, with that broken hand he finished the shoot. He must have been in terrible pain but somehow he managed." "Another thing is, because he fractured his hand, the concern was to maintain continuity, as at that moment he was the Rahuliya of the second half, where he is more ripped, I thought with that hand, he wouldn't be able to exercise but still he managed." Manjrekar knew Aayush, brother-in-law of Bollywood superstar Salman Khan, was in pain.

He said: "I could see him tie his wrist and exercise and deliver every shot perfectly. It's a jarring feeling when your hand is fractured, holding back those expressions to be in character. But he was involved in the role, so immersed in 'Rahuliya' that he forgot the pain." This is the first time that Salman Khan and Aayush will be seen sharing screen space. Presented by Salman Khan Films, 'Antim' is produced by Salma Khan and directed by Mahesh Manjrekar.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Lucknow, Sep 9 : The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) will formally launch its election campaign in Uttar Pradesh from October 9 which happens to be the death anniversary of the late Kanshi Ram, the party's founder.

Mayawati has asked party workers to pay homage to late Kanshi Ram on the occasion by paying homage to the party founder and resolving to bring BSP back in power.

Party sources said that an estimated 1 lakh cadre turnout is expected at the memorial built in memory of Kanshi Ram, and Mayawati will address them.

The former chief minister has already started reviewing preparations for the elections and even shortlisting the candidates.

Mayawati has told the party cadres to observe Kanshi Ram's death anniversary in a big way this year.

A party functionary said, "Behenji (Mayawati) has asked people from all 75 districts to come to Lucknow on October 9. We are expecting a crowd of approximately 1 lakh, if not more, to visit the memorial. This will be the largest gathering of party workers in the state capital in two years since we could not organize any programme due to the pandemic."
Mumbai, Sep 9 : The Bombay High Court on Thursday dismissed a plea by Bollywood actress Kangana Ranaut seeking to quash the criminal defamation proceedings initiated against her before the Andheri Magistrate Court by poet-lyricist Javed Akhtar last year.

In her verdict, Justice Revati Mohite-Dere upheld the discretionary orders of the Andheri Court Magistrate directing the police to probe into the allegations levelled by Akhtar against Ranaut, both stalwarts in the film industry.

In his complaint, Akhtar, a Padma Bhushan and five-time National Award winner, had accused Ranaut, a Padma Shri and three-time National Award winner, of making defamatory statements against him on national and international television in an apparent "clear campaign to tarnish and malign" him in the eyes of the people.

In March this year, the Magistrate issued a bailable warrant against Ranaut who appeared before the court and was granted bail, and in July she moved the high court challenging the proceedings initiated by the lower court.

Through her lawyer Rizwan Siddique, Ranaut contended that instead of directing the Juhu Police to probe the matter, the court was duty bound to examine Akhtar and the witnesses named in the complaint under the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).

Siddique argued that the Magistrate should have ascertained the veracity of the "one-sided complaint" instead of passing an order 'mechanically', pointing out that no evidence was brought on record by Akhtar, and the material relied upon was brought by a third party who was not examined under oath.

Seeking dismissal of Ranaut's plea and saying it was with the sole intent to delay the matter, Akhtar's lawyer Jay Bharadwaj said that the due procedures were followed by magistrate and to conduct an impartial probe, all persons involved were summoned but Ranaut remained absent from the proceedings.

Bharadwaj said that the Magistrate could either conduct the investigation, or direct a police officer or a third party for the same, and the Magistrate for one of these three options.

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Canberra, Sep 9 : Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on THursday promised citizens stranded overseas that home quarantine on arrival in the country will be available soon.

Morrison acknowledged the "very heavy burden" carried by Australians who have been stuck overseas since the start of the pandemic, reports xinhua news agency.

"I know, for Australians overseas, it has been a very difficult and frustrating time," he said in a video message to an awards event, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.

So far, about 38,000 Australian citizens and residents overseas had registered with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) to return home.

Morrison previously promised Australians overseas that they would be home by December 2020 but domestic outbreaks of Covid-19 interrupted the hotel quarantine system.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese has criticised the Prime Minister for the delay, saying that Morrison had not done enough to help Australians stranded overseas get home.

Morrison said that the government was working to make home quarantine the "primary" option for arrivals rather than hotel quarantine, significantly boosting the number of people who can enter the country.

On Thursday morning, Australia reported 1,745 new locally-acquired cases of Covid-19, taking the overall infection tally to 66,318, while the death toll stood at 1,013.

Of the new cases, 1,405 were from New South Wales (NSW), the country's most populous state and the current epicentre of the pandemic, where the health department also recorded five deaths.

The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) recorded 15 new cases, taking the number of active cases in the nation's capital to 227.

So far about 64 pe rcent of Australians aged 16 and over had received at least one coronavirus vaccine and 39 per cent were fully inoculated, according to the Department of Health.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Lucknow, Sep 9 : A Barabanki farmer whose initiative to cultivate chia seeds, considered a superfood globally, made headlines earlier this year, is now hitting headlines for growing dragon fruit.

Harish Chandra's initiative was lauded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Mann Ki Baat programme in February this year.

In view of this Amseruwa villager's novel initiatives, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has now announced a grant of Rs 30,000 per acre for all those cultivating dragon fruit.

The state government believes that the farmers of the state can increase their income manifold by cultivating dragon fruit, which sells at Rs 350 per kilogram in the market.

The grant announced by the Horticulture Department will encourage a large number farmers in the state to grow the superfood.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had earlier praised Harish Chandra's tireless efforts to grow a foreign crop like chia seeds, which is rich in fibre, minerals and protein, with his own resources, without any government help.

According to agricultural experts, dragon fruit is cultivated in South East Asia, United States of America, the Caribbean and Australia.

The Government of Gujarat has named this fruit as 'Kamalam' for its medicinal benefits. It is rich in antioxidant, vitamins A and C, fibre, calcium, magnesium and iron and is also fat-free. It strengthens immunity and is also effective in control and prevention of diabetes. Also known as pitaya fruit, it is eaten mostly in Mexico and Central Asia. Its taste is similar to that of watermelon.

According to the government spokesman, the main objective behind the chief minister's announcement is to benefit farmers and people at the same time by ensuring multiplication of farmers' income on the one hand and promoting cultivation of crops that have medicinal value on the other.

Harish Chandra retired from the army as an artillery colonel in 2015.

Later, he bought three acres of land in Amseruwa village of Haidergarh tehsil of Barabanki where he started growing chia seeds, green apple, red apple, plums, dragon fruit, black wheat and multiple varieties of potatoes.

Harish Chandra says that he planted 2000 saplings of dragon fruit on 500 pillars built over one acre of land three years ago at the cost of Rs 5-6 lakh and today, he is earning 15 lakhs annually. He said that he will continue to earn this much for the next three decades from the trees that he has planted.

Harish Chandra, who has earned a name for his innovative farming, says that the cultivation of dragon fruit will prove to be effective in increasing the income of farmers as it is cost-effective also because of use of cow dung and organic manure instead of chemical fertilisers.

The climate of the state is also favourable for this plant.
Mumbai, Sep 9 : Bearish global cues subdued India's key stock market indices during the late-trade session on Thursday.

Besides, investors feared a roll-back of loose monetary policy will impact liquidity.

Globally, Asian markets were mixed on further crackdown on tech companies in China.

On a sector specific basis, power, FMCG and telecom indices gained, whereas, Consumer Durables, Realty and Healthcare indices were the main losers.

At 2.45 p.m., Sensex traded at 58,171.98 points lower by 78.28 points, or 0.13 per cent, from its previous close.

The Nifty50 on the National Stock Exchange traded at 17,327.50, lower by 26 points or 0.15 per cent from its previous close.

"Nifty opened lower and has remained in a range of 71 points by way of a zigzag move. Volumes seem to be on the lower side ahead of a three day weekend," said Deepak Jasani, Head of Retail Research, HDFC Securities.

"Nifty is barely up on a weekly basis. Advance decline ratio has improved to above 1:1, reflecting better sentiments amongst participants." According to Gaurav Garg, Head of Research at CapitalVia Global Research: "Indian benchmarks continue weak trade in the afternoon session as global markets sentiments are bearish because of foreign funds outflow." "Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) stood as net sellers in the capital market offloaded shares worth Rs 802.51 crore."

-- Except for the title, this story has not been edited by Prokerala team and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed
Amsterdam, Sep 9 : The European health regulatory body has listed Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) -- a neurological disorder -- as a "very rare" side effect of the AstraZeneca Covid vaccine, known as Covishield in India.

GBS is a serious nerve inflammation, which may cause temporary loss of feeling and movement (paralysis) and difficulty in breathing.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA), in a new update on Wednesday shared that a causal relationship between AstraZeneca vaccine and GBS was "considered at least a reasonable possibility".

Therefore, the condition should be "added to the product information as a side effect".

"The frequency category allocated is 'very rare' (that is, occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 persons), which is the category of the lowest frequency foreseen in EU product information," the EMA said in the update.

The incidence of the side effect remains extremely rare, with only 833 cases reported worldwide from about 592 million administered doses of the adenovirus-based AstraZeneca vaccine, as of July 25.

Reported cases concern suspected side effects, i.e. medical events that have been observed after vaccination, but which are not necessarily related to or caused by the vaccine, the regulatory body said.

The EMA further recommended that patients must talk to their healthcare professionals before taking AstraZeneca vaccine, if they previously had GBS after being given the vaccine.

It added that people should seek immediate medical attention if they develop weakness and paralysis in the extremities that can progress to the chest and face.

A study, published in the peer-reviewed medical journal Annals of Neurology in June, described an unusual variant of Guillain-Barre syndrome characterised by prominent facial weakness in seven cases from a regional medical center in Kerala, India. The cases occurred within two weeks of the first dose of vaccination.

"Six out of the seven patients progressed to areflexic quadriplegia and required mechanical ventilatory support," said Boby Varkey Maramattom, from the Department of Neurology, Aster Medcity, Kochi, Kerala.

"The frequency of GBS was 1.4 to 10 fold higher than that expected in this period for a population of this magnitude. In addition, the frequency of bilateral facial weakness, which typically occurs in less than 20 per cent of GBS cases, suggests a pattern associated with the vaccination," he added.

While the benefits of vaccination substantially outweigh the risk of this relatively rare outcome, the researchers stressed that clinicians should be alert to this possible adverse event and look for this rare neurological syndrome following administration of Covid-19 vaccines.

The Johnson & Johnson vaccine against Covid, developed using the same technology as AstraZeneca, was also listed for GBS recently.

The EMA has also included pain in legs and arms or stomach and influenza-like symptoms in the product information as side effects of the AstraZeneca vaccine.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Sep 9 : US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned congressional leaders that the US is on track to default on the national debt in October if the White House and Congress are unable to raise the debt limit.

In a letter, Yellen said that the Treasury Department would likely run out of cash and exhaust "extraordinary" measures to keep the federal government within its legal borrowing limit at some point next month, The Hill reported.

"Once all available measures and cash on hand are fully exhausted, the United States of America would be unable to meet its obligations for the first time in our history," Yellen said.

"Given this uncertainty, the Treasury Department is not able to provide a specific estimate of how long the extraordinary measures will last. However, based on our best and most recent information, the most likely outcome is that cash and extraordinary measures will be exhausted during the month of October," she continued, the report said.

The Treasury Department has taken so-called extraordinary measures to prevent the US from defaulting on the national debt since the federal debt limit was reimposed on August 1. If the Treasury Department runs out of ways to stave off a default without borrowing more money, the inability of the US to pay its debts could send debilitating shockwaves through the financial system.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Cadarache : , Sep 9 (IANS) Arriving on Thursday at the ITER worksite in southern France is the first module of the world's largest and powerful magnet, the Central Solenoid. It will become the central component of ITER, a machine that replicates the sun's fusion power.

ITER is being built in southern France by 35 partner countries: The European Union (plus the UK and Switzerland), China, India, Japan, Korea, Russia and the US.

The Central Solenoid, a first-of-kind magnet, is being built by General Atomics, San Diego, California and is part of the US support for ITER, which is delivered mainly in the form of advanced components. This arrangement drives companies like General Atomics (GA) and others to expand their expertise for fusion technologies.

The Central Solenoid will play a critical role in ITER's mission to establish fusion energy as a carbon-free, safe, economic and inexhaustible source of electricity.

"ITER is the most complex scientific collaboration in history," explains Bernard Bigot, Director-General of the ITER Organisation. "Very special first-of-a-kind components are being manufactured in Europe, Asia and North America over a nearly 10-year period by leading companies such as General Atomics." Despite the challenges of Covid-19, ITER is now 75 per cent completed. The Central Solenoid and many other first-of-a-kind components have been arriving in France from three continents.

After arriving recently at the Marseille harbour, the 166-ton magnet module, one of six that will comprise the Central Solenoid, was placed on a special remote-controlled transport vehicle, to be driven 104 km (65 miles) to ITER on a reinforced roadway that can accommodate heavy loads.

Fully assembled, the Central Solenoid, the largest of ITER's magnets, will be 18 meters (59 feet) tall and 4.25 meters (14 feet) wide, and will weigh a thousand tons.

It will induce a powerful current in the ITER cloud-like plasma, helping to shape and control the fusion reaction during long pulses. It is sometimes called the "beating heart" of the ITER machine.

How powerful is the Central Solenoid? Its magnetic force is strong enough to lift an aircraft carrier two meters (six feet) into the air. At its core, it will reach a magnetic field strength of 13 Tesla, about 2,80,000 times stronger than the earth's magnetic field. The support structures for the Central Solenoid will have to withstand forces equal to twice the thrust of a space shuttle lift-off.

"The Central Solenoid project ranks among the largest, most complex and demanding magnet programs ever undertaken," says John Smith, GA's Director of Engineering and Projects.

"I speak for the entire team when I say this is the most important and significant project of our careers. We have all felt the responsibility of working on a job that has the potential to change the world. This is a significant achievement for the GA team and US ITER." The Central Solenoid modules are being manufactured at GA's Magnet Technologies Center in Poway, California, near San Diego, under the direction of the US ITER project, managed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Five additional Central Solenoid modules, plus one spare, are at various stages of fabrication. The second module is currently in transit to France.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Tired of waiting for their pending promotion for years, nurses of Ram Manohar Lohia (RML) hospital, New Delhi staged a demonstration on Thursday morning to put forth their demands to the hospital administration.

The three main demands of the nurses protesting since September 1 are -- immediate completion of the promotion process as it has been pending since long, no direct recruitment of senior promotional posts in nursing cadre and no outsourcing of nursing cadre.

"There are people waiting to get promoted for over 20-25 years at this (RML) hospital. Senior positions such as that of Deputy Nursing Superintendent and Assistant Nursing Superintendent are lying 100 per cent and 72 per cent vacant, respectively. We have been writing to the hospital administration over the issue for the last 5 years but all our demands have fallen on deaf ears," All India Government Nurses Federation President, Anita Parmar told IANS.

"Nurses are being deprived of their basic rights which in turn is affecting the smooth functioning of the hospital," she said, adding "This isn't just RML's problems, all the hospitals here are functioning in a similar manner. Safdarjung Hospital too filled its vacant senior positions in May-June this year, after protests." In the meantime, Delhi Nurses Union - affiliated with the All Indian Government Nurses Federation (AIGNF) at Lady Harding Medical College, Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, Smt Sucheta Kriplani Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital have joined in the nurses' agitation at RML with few backing them on the ground and others wearing black badges to work to express solidarity.

Letters issued by the above-mentioned hospitals read that nurses will be working with black badges with effect from September 9 to register their support with ongoing agitation of fellow nurses of RML Hospital without occluding the patient care in the hospital.

The letter further mentions that it is very sad that no action has been taken by the RML Hospital Administration till now. It seems that nurses are not important for the hospital. Now, the nurses of other Central Government Hospitals have to join their agitation to strengthen their hands because no option has been left with them due to administration's callous behaviour.

An AIGNF member on the condition of anonymity said that every time they sent a letter, the administration assured them to work on the demands within 30 days but nothing has happened on the ground yet, adding, "We will continue to protest and work with black badges till our demands are met."
Kabul, Sep 9 : The interim government of the Islamic Emirates of Afghanistan (IEA) is likey to take oath of office on September 11, a day which also marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks in the US in 2001.

As per reports, the newly-formed Taliban government has rolled out invitations to various countries to be part of the oath-taking ceremony, including China, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Qatar, India and interestingly, the US.

Taliban announced the names of their interim government officials, emphasising that the formation in Afghanistan will be under a caretaker setup. The Taliban are seeking international recognition and have called on the countries to reopen their embassies in the war-torn nation.

"We recognise that peace and stability are must for investments. We want good relations with all the neighbours, including China," said Zabiullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban.

"The war has ended, the country is getting out of the crisis. It is now the time for peace and reconstruction. We need people to support us. Afghanistan has the right to be recognised. The international community should open their embassies in Kabul," he added.

However, the international community is still not ready to recognise the announced interim government of the Taliban and has raised questions over non-inclusivity of various other ethnic groups. It is also not happy with the representation of various old guards of the Taliban in the new setup, who carry bounty on their heads and are listed as proscribed terrorists by the Untied Nations and other global platforms.

The interim Prime Minister, Mohammad Hassan Akhund, is under UN sanctions. Sirajuddin Haqqani, named the acting Interior Minister, is on FBI's most-wanted list with a bounty of $10 million on his head. Khalil Haqqani, appointed as the acting Minister for Refugees, also carries a $5 million bounty on his head.

There are many others in the list in senior positions who are either members of the US-designated terror groups, or are on international sanctions lists, or are former Guantanamo inmates.

The US, meanwhile, has said that it is assessing the announcement of an interim government in Afghanistan and is concerned about some individuals for their affiliations and track records.

"We note the list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women," stated the US State Department spokesperson.

On the other hand, the Taliban have lashed out at the international criticism against the members of their interim setup, especially the US, who they say are violating the Doha peace agreement by not recognising the interim Taliban government.
September 09 : Soon after welcoming Ganesha at home on Wednesday, ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, Shilpa Shetty visited bereaved Akshay Kumar to offer condolences. Akshay Kumar lost his mother Aruna Bhatia on Tuesday morning.

On Wednesday evening, the Hungama 2 actress was spotted arriving at Akshay Kumars Juhu apartment.

After Akshays mother passed away on September 8, many Bollywood friends and colleagues shared their condolences on social media and also attended the funeral in Mumbai. On Thursday, many arrived at Akshay Kumars house in Juhu including his longtime friend Ajay Devgn. The actor was seen making a quick entry and exit after meeting Akshay and his family. Filmmaker Karan Johar, Sidharth Malhotra and his Shershaah co-star Kiara Advani, Arjun Kapoor and girlfriend Malaika Arora, director-duo Abbas-Mustan, Huma Qureshi and producer Apoorva Mehta were also spotted at Akshay Kumars home.

Earlier in the day, on the occasion of his birthday, Akshay Kumar shared a picture with his mother, wherein she can be seen giving him a kiss on the cheek, while Akshay wrote, Would have never liked it this way but am sure mom is singing Happy Birthday to me from right up there! Thanks to each one of you for your condolences and wishes alike. Life goes on.

Reportedly, Akshays mother was admitted in ICU of Hiranandani hospital. Taking to Instagram handle, the BellBottom actor had thanked his fans for their best wishes, Touched beyond words at your concern for my moms health. This is a very tough time for me and my family. Every single prayer of yours would greatly help. Akshays post was flooded with fans best wishes and get-well-soon messages.

Akshay Kumar was shooting for his upcoming film Cinderella in the UK when he had to flow back to Mumbai after he came to know that his mothers health had worsened. He has reportedly asked his producers to carry on shooting with other team members where his presence is not required.
While the first half of IPL 2021 saw some amazing knocks with the bat, some bowlers proved themselves with their match-changing hauls. We have a look at the bowlers who turned the fortune of matches in IPL 2021 in India with their tight spells and big scalps: 5/27 -- Harshal Patel (Royal Challengers Bangalore)

In IPL 2021, Harshal Patel was given the responsibility to keep the run flow in check. The pace all-rounder was able to grab his opportunity with both hands as he scalped five wickets and conceded only 27 runs in the opening match against Mumbai Indians in Chennai. The 30-year-old used the slower ball and yorker to good effect. It was a memorable match for Patel, who got the first five-wicket haul of the tournament and hit the winning runs on the last ball to complete a Bangalore win. He is also the orange cap holder with 17 wickets in the seven matches for Bangalore.

4/12 -- Deepak Chahar (Chennai Super Kings) Deepak Chahar was unplayable in Mumbai. The pacer got the ball to swing both ways and breathed down the neck of the opposition batsmen. He wreaked havoc on the Punjab Kings middle-order, dismissing Mayank Agarwal with a ripper of a delivery. He went on to get scalps of Chris Gayle, Nicholas Pooran, and Deepak Hooda, reducing Punjab to 26/5. Punjab managed to reach 106/8 in their 20 overs but that was never going to be enough as Chennai chased down the target in 15.4 overs with six wickets to spare.

4/23 -- Chris Morris (Rajasthan Royals) The most expensive player in IPL history, Morris made his impact with the ball with 4/23 against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai. He first starred with his throw catching Eoin Morgan short of his crease. Morris broke the back of the lower-order, picking up wickets of Andre Russell, who hit him for a six but was caught at long on, and Dinesh Karthik in the same over before knocking off Pat Cummins and Shivam Mavi in the final over of the innings to set an easy target for Rajasthan to chase.

5/15 -- Andre Russell (Kolkata Knight Riders) The big-hitter made huge splash with the ball in IPL 2021. Russell returned with sensational figures of 5/15 in just two overs as Mumbai Indians were bowled out for just 152 in Chennai. Starting from the 18th over, Russell dismissed Kieron Pollard, Krunal Pandya, Marco Jansen, Rahul Chahar and Jasprit Bumrah to complete the second five-wicket haul of the tournament. But his effort went in vain as Kolkata fell short by 10 runs.

4/27 -- Rahul Chahar (Mumbai Indians) The leg-spinner had an amazing time against Kolkata Knight Riders, taking 4/27 in Chennai. Chasing 152, Chahar dismissed Kolkata's top four batsmen to get the momentum in Mumbai's favour. Chahar was hit for a four and six in the ninth over by Shubman Gill. But the spinner had the last laugh as he had Gill caught at long-off, thus breaking the opening partnership at 72. Chahar then got Rahul Tripathi caught by keeper followed by Eoin Morgan holing out to deep mid-wicket. Chahar completed his spell by getting Nitish Rana stumped, setting a 10-run win for Mumbai.

Latest updates on IPL 2021
New Delhi, Sep 9 : With the announcement of Rajya Sabha polls on 7 seats on Thursday, the intense lobbying has begun in the Congress party for tickets.

The grand old party is likely to contest two seats -- one in Tamil Nadu and the other in Maharashtra. In the alliance arrangement during the state polls, one seat was promised to the Congress by the DMK and the other seat is from Maharashtra which has fallen vacant after the demise of Rajiv Satav.

Many leaders are said to be in the fray including former Leader of the opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, Mukul Wasnik, Milind Deora, Sanjay Nirupam and Pramod Tiwari, while from Tamil Nadu, sources said that the former Congress President Rahul Gandhi is in favour of Praveen Chakravarty who is the chairman of the data analytics department of the Congress party.

But sources say that the DMK is averse to the idea of sending a non political person to the upper house while Ghulam Nabi Azad shares a good rapport with the DMK leadership. Pramod Tiwari is a surprise name but he is banking on his proximity to Priyanka Gandhi and is keen to be nominated for the upper house elections.

From Maharashtra the Congress has lone seat with three leaders in the fray -- Mukul Wasnik who is from the scheduled caste has thrown his hat while Milind Deora who was once close to Rahul Gandhi is also being considered and former Mumbai Congress President Sanjay Nirupam's name is in the fray as he met Rahul Gandhi last week.

While many leaders including Azad, Wasnik, Veerappa Moily are from the G-23 group, Moily and Wasnik have mended fence with Rahul Gandhi, sources said.

However, in the entire elections, the BJP is also likely to get two seats, one in MP and the other in Assam where Sarbanda Sonowal is likely to be sent from the state and the seat in Puducherry will go to the NDA. It remains to be seen if the Puducherry seat goes to the BJP or not. From West Bengal, Congress turncoat Sushmita Dev is likely to be nominated by the Trinamool, but for the polls in Tamil Nadu both the seats will go to the DMK and its allies as it's working on to take PMK on board.

The Election Commission on Thursday announced dates for bypolls for Rajya Sabha for various states. There are six casual vacancies in the Council of States while one seat from Puducherry is going for regular poll. A bypoll for the lone seat of legislative council in Bihar is also scheduled.
Thiruvananthapuram, Sep 9 : Eyebrows have been raised over the recommendation of books of prominent RSS ideologues in the curriculum of the newly started Master's course in Public Administration at Kannur University.

The books that have been cleared for study include those of M.S. Golwalkar, Veer Savarkar and Deendayal Upadhyaya.

These books are included for study in the third semester of the MA Public Administration course. At present this course is offered only at the Government Brennen College in Tellicherry in Kannur district.

Along with them are books of Rabindranath Tagore, Gandhi, Nehru and other such towering personalities.

But what has come as a surprise to many is the way the chairman of Kannur University M.K. Hassan, belonging to the Students Federation of India (student wing of the CPI-M), reacted to questions on this development as across the country the SFI is up in arms against the alleged saffronisation of education.

"This is included in the comparative literature part and only if this is taught in detail will one know what damage these people have done. We have already had a few rounds of discussion on this and now we are going to have a public debate to find out the response," said Hassan.

Gopinath Ravindran, Vice-Chancellor of Kannur University, despite the media trying to get in touch with him has not commented on the issue.

Meanwhile media critic and former Malayalam Professor at Calicut University, M.N. Karaserri expressed shock over the development.

"This is shocking news and such a thing should never have happened at all. I strongly feel this is just a test case for what is in store as through this those who are behind it are trying to test the waters," said Karaserri.
Mumbai, Sep 9 : Prominent realtor and Bollywood financer Yusuf Lakdawala, who was arrested for grabbing a plot of land belonging to legendary author Mulk Raj Anand, passed away on Thursday due to cancer complications, officials said.

Lakdawala, 76, was nabbed by the Mumbai Police's Economic Offences Wing (EOW) in 2019, and later by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in 2020 in connection with the land-grabbing of the plot owned by the late writer in Khandala hill station.

Lodged at the Arthur Road Central Jail, he was admitted to the jail hospital and then rushed to the Sir J. J. Hospital for treatment but succumbed this morning.

In August, Lakdawala's lawyer Abhinav Chandrachud had sought bail on medical grounds to enable him to get proper treatment in a hospital, and submitted his latest medical report to the court suggesting the cancer had spread to other parts of his body.

The jail authorities had in the past taken him to the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital to check for the relapse of cancer which had been cured around 12 years ago.

Opposing the bail plea, ED counsel Hiten Venegaonkar had argued that instead the court could direct the jail authorities to provide the necessary medical treatment to the accused in custody.

The jail authorities had submitted that they would arrange for all necessary treatment required by Lakdawala.

First nabbed by the EOW when he was trying to flee to London from Ahmedabad International Airport, he got bail but was rearrested in a money-laundering case registered by the ED in the same case and was in the jail since then.

The EOW alleged that Lakdawala had forged documents to help him grab the huge Khandala plot of Anand - who died in 2004 - by counterfeiting signatures on the papers dating back to 1949.

In 2010, he was also accused of allegedly encroaching upon the properties belonging to late actress Sadhana in Santacruz, but was later acquitted in the case.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : A key member of the Supreme Court-appointed panel on contentious three agricultural laws said the panel's report is in favour of farmers and the report should be brought in public domain for a discussion.

Speaking to IANS, Shetkari Sanghatana President and panel member Anil J. Ghanwat, who had written to Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana on September 1, urging him to make the report public, said: "The report was prepared after holding detailed discussion with various stakeholders... I am pained to see the ongoing farmer protests." Asked to comment on the farmer groups agitating against the three farm laws, he said: "Farmers should talk. If not on the three laws, then at least on the report prepared by the panel... (it is) important to break the stalemate." He emphasised that the panel's report on the three farm laws is in favour of farmers.

"Therefore, it is important to release the report in the public domain and the top court should take up the matter without any delay," he added.

Ghanwat emphasised that repeal of three farm laws is not the solution, and instead, there should be talks, as the protest against the laws has been ongoing for a long time. On the aspect of repealing the three farm laws, which is the main demand of protesting farmer groups, he reiterated there should be discussion on the defects in the farm laws, and they should be addressed too.

Ghanwat, in a letter to the CJI, said the report addressed all apprehensions of the farmers. The committee was confident that the recommendations "will pave the way to resolve the on-going farmers' agitation that started on November 26, 2020".

"I feel that the report has not been given any attention by the Supreme Court. I am humbly pleading the Supreme Court to kindly release the report for implementation of its recommendations for peaceful resolution of the stalemate to the farmers satisfaction at the earliest," said Ghanwat in the letter.

The top court had suspended the implementation of the three farm laws and constituted a committee to report on these laws on January 12 this year.

Ghanwat was nominated as one of the members of the committee to represent the farming community.

The committee was given two months to submit its report on the three laws. The committee, after consulting a large number of farmers and several stakeholders submitted its report before the March 19 deadline.

The committee initially comprised of four members: Bhartiya Kisan Union and All India Kisan Coordination Committee President Bhupinder Singh Mann, agricultural economist and International Food Policy Research Institute's Director for South Asia, Dr. Parmod Kumar Joshi, agricultural economist and the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices' former Chairman Ashok Gulati, and Ghanwat. Mann resigned later.

The Supreme Court had stayed the implementation of three farm laws - the Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020, and the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020.

(Sumit Saxena can be contacted at sumit.s@ians.in )
Karnal : , Sep 9 (IANS) With the ongoing farmers agitation at the mini-Secretariat in Haryana's Karnal entering its third day on Thursday, the farmers unions have decided to meet again on Saturday to finalise the future course of action on their demands.

Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait on Wednesday announced that they will continue the peaceful protest here and will not obstruct any official day to day activities. He said that farmers across the state will continue the agitation on the lines of ongoing protests at the Delhi borders.

However, farmers are not in a mood to stretch the protest here and have decided to meet on Saturday where all unions' leadership will participate and decide their actions ahead.

Jagdeep Singh Aulakh, Karnal district President of the Bharatiya Kisan Union-Chadhuni and member of the core committee, said: "Samyukta Kisan Morcha and the other farmers' organisations of Haryana will meet at the protest site of Karnal where we will announce the actions ahead".

"The farmers' organisations have already given three days to the Haryana government, but not even a single demand has been accepted yet. We will make some big announcement on September 11 that will make (Manohar Lal) Khattar government bow down at any cost." The farmers unions have categorically said that they will now talk with the government only when a case is registered against then SDM Ayush Sinha who is being seen in the viral video giving controversial statements while ordering a baton charge at Bastara toll plaza in Karnal on August 28.

According to the United Kisan Morcha, Sinha had directly ordered the police to "break the heads of the farmers". The farmers have alleged that the government has promoted him instead of sacking.

The agitating farmers' demands include immediate sacking of Sinha and a case against him. Apart from this, they are also seeking Rs 25 lakh compensation and a government job for kin of the farmer who died in the incident and Rs 2 lakh compensation each for injured farmers.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to entertain a plea seeking direction for use of 'Red Ant Chutney' to effectively to boost the immune system and also in the long run, prevent Covid-19 infection.

A bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud and comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Hima Kohli said there is a lot of traditional knowledge, but it cannot be used as a cure for Covid-19. "These remedies you can have for your own consumption but we cannot ask for applying this traditional knowledge across the country," said the bench.

Advocate Anirudha Sanganeria, appearing for petitioner Nayadhar Padhial, said that the Orissa High Court dismissed the plea and they moved the top court challenging that order. The top court asked the petitioner, a member of tribal community of Odisha, to get vaccinated for Covidand dismissed the plea.

The petitioner, as per an initial high court order, moved the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, which expressed its inability and rejected the claim on the basis of lack of expertise to evaluate the claim. Also, the Ayush Ministry rejected the claim on the basis of it not being covered under its scope. After rejection of the representation, the petitioner filed another petition before the high court urging to refer the matter to another body of experts, which was rejected.

The apex court noted that the high court should not have directed the Directors General of the Ayush Ministry and the CSIR) to take a decision on the proposal within three months. "We want to put an end to it," the bench said, as it dismissed the plea.

The plea claimed that "Red Ant Chutney", has a medicinal value as it contains formic acid, protein, calcium, Vitamin B12 and zinc and its efficacy needs to be ascertained as a cure of Covid-19. The petitioner claimed this chutney, a mixture of red ants and green chillies, in the tribal belts of the country including Odisha and Chhattisgarh is considered as a cure of flu, cough, common cold, fatigue, breathing problems, and other ailments.
New York, Sep 9 : Once infected with Covid and later fully vaccinated likely boosts immune systems of some people, providing them with a lasting defence against all future variants, according to a study.

Researchers call this "superhuman immunity" or "hybrid immunity".

The team at Rockefeller University in the US found that post Covid infection and two doses of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, some people's immune systems ramp up to produce a vast number of "flexible" antibodies that respond well to many forms of coronaviruses.

The study, published on the pre-print server BioRxiv, meaning it is not yet peer-reviewed, showed that antibodies in these individuals could strongly neutralise the six variants of concern tested, including Delta and Beta, as well as several other viruses related to SARS-CoV-2, The Telegraph reported.

"Those people have amazing responses to the vaccine," Theodora Hatziioannou, a virologist at Rockefeller, who studied such patients, was quoted as saying.

"I think they are in the best position to fight the virus," Hatziioannou said.

The team were also able to defeat a virus specially engineered to contain 20 mutations that are known to prevent SARS-CoV-2 antibodies from binding to it.

When tested, antibodies from people who were only vaccinated or who had only experienced prior infection were powerless against the lab-grown virus. But antibodies in people with the "hybrid immunity" overcame it, the report said.

"This is being a bit more speculative, but I would also suspect that they would have some degree of protection against the SARS-like viruses that have yet to infect humans," Paul Bieniasz, another virologist at Rockefeller was quoted as saying by NPR.com.

The researchers stated that the findings show how powerful the mRNA vaccines can be in people with prior exposure to SARS-CoV-2.

"There's a lot of research now focused on finding a pan-coronavirus vaccine that would protect against all future variants. Our findings tell you that we already have it," Hatziioannou said.

However, since the team conducted the research on a small group of 14 patients, they do not know if everyone who has had Covid and then an mRNA vaccine will have such a remarkable immune response.

Several other recent studies have also found that there are antibodies that can neutralise a whole range of variants and SARS-like viruses, after infection and vaccinations.

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Kolkata, Sep 9 : A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Calcutta High Court questioning the jurisdiction of the Chief Secretary to request the Election Commission to hold bypolls in the Bhowanipore Assembly constituency in Kolkata from where 'Mamata Banerjee intends to contest'.

The petition is likely to be heard on Monday by a bench of acting Chief Justice of the HC, Rajesh Bindal.

The controversy regarding the announcement of bypolls in Bhowanipore arose after the poll panel in its notification stated that the by-election to the south Kolkata constituency is being treated as a special case because of the request from the state government.

Quoting Chief Secretary H.K. Diwedi, the EC said, "He (Chief Secretary) cited that under Article 164(4) of the Constitution, a minister who is not a member of the state legislature for a period of six consecutive months shall at the expiration of that period cease to be a minister and there will be a constitutional crisis and vacuum in the top executive posts in the government unless elections are held immediately.

"He also informed that in view of the administrative exigencies and public interest and to avoid vacuum in the state, by-elections for Bhowanipore, Kolkata, from where Mamata Banerjee, the Chief Minister, intends to contest, may be conducted.

"Taking into consideration the inputs and views of the Chief Secretaries and the respective Chief Electoral Officers of the states, while the Commission has decided not to hold by-elections in the other 31 Assembly constituencies and 3 Parliamentary constituencies, and considering the constitutional exigency and special request from state of West Bengal, it has decided to hold by-election in Bhowanipore Assembly constituency," the notification added.

The petitioner, Sion Bandyopadhyaym in his PIL contested the notification and raised question over the jurisdiction of the Chief Secretary.

The petitioner asked whether the bureaucratic head of the state has the jurisdiction to request the Election Commission to conduct elections to a particular constituency just because the Chief Minister of the state 'intends to contest' from there.

It has also been alleged that Banerjee used Chief Secretary Dwivedi to hold by-elections to just one seat.

The PIL also raised questions on singling out a particular constituency and holding elections there.

Apart from Bhowanipore, there are other Assembly constituencies such as Gosaba, Khardah, Shantipur and Dinhata where the seats are lying vacant. So why was Bhowanipore treated as an exception and what kind of constitutional crisis will arise if elections are not conducted in this south Kolkata constituency, the petitioner questioned.

State BJP President Dilip Ghosh, who had earlier threatened to move the court on the announcement of by-polls, said, "What kind of constitutional crisis will come up if there is no election in Bhowanipore? Is the Chief Secretary is indicating that there will be constitutional crisis if Mamata Banerjee doesn't remain the Chief Minister of the state? Being the Chief Secretary, it is not his responsibility to look into these things. The Election Commission is an autonomous body which should not come under the influence of anybody.

Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, is in Delhi where he is likely to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Speculation is rife that Adhikari might discuss the Bhowanipore bypoll issues with the Home Minister.
New Delhi, Sep 9: Amid the ongoing political turmoil in Afghanistan, foreign direct investment (FDI) into Pakistan is slowing down. According to official data, in July - the first month of the new financial year, FDI flow into Pakistan stood at $89.9 million - down 31 per cent compared to the corresponding month in 2020.

Experts feel that instability in Afghanistan could affect Pakistan's ability to attract FDI especially at a time when the economy is going through a fragile patch with a rising debt level. Though the current interim Taliban government in Afghanistan has the stamp of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), the Imran Khan administration will have to adopt extreme caution amid widespread protests not only against the hardline regime under UN blacklisted Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund but also against Islamabad.

The Taliban have freed all the 4000 Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters, responsible for several killings of civilians and security forces since 2007, besides the ghastly attack at Peshawar Army Public School that left over 130 school children and staff members dead.

The Express Tribune noted that attracting "this much FDI seems too difficult, more so because of the latest political developments in neighbouring Afghanistan. Kabul's takeover by the Taliban in mid-August can scare away prospective foreign investors due to perceived challenges to political stability in the region." Santander Trade-economic data and information portal said that "significant security risk due to the operations of terrorist organisations" is attached to Pakistan. Besides , a high risk of corruption -- Pakistan has not signed the OECD Anti-Corruption Convention -- is also a cause for concern.

In the previous financial year - July to June, the total FDI inflow was estimated at $1.87 billion down from 2019-20's $2.598 billion. While Covid 19 pandemic and the subsequent worldwide restrictions led to a slowdown in the much-needed FDI flow, there are murmurs that Chinese investments are thinning down.

China, which is Pakistan's largest investor, has expressed its concerns over the deteriorating security situation after a spate of terror attacks.

A chunk of FDI flows into the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

"Chinese investments into CPEC have been thinning albeit very quietly," an analyst told India Narrative.

Take a look. On August 20, a bomb blast in the Gwadar area in Balochistan killed two Pakistani children but was targeted at the Chinese. In July, a bomb blast inside a bus near the Dasu hydropower project killed at least 13 people including nine Chinese nationals. Prior to this, a bomb blast took place at an upmarket hotel at Quetta.

The fact that Pakistan continues to be place in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, is also a major consideration for investors.

Pakistan based think tank Tabadlab suggested "that FATF grey-listing, starting in 2008 and till 2019, may have resulted in cumulative real GDP losses of approximately $38 billion." (The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
Chennai, Sep 9 : With archaeological findings in Tamil Nadu dating back to 4th century BC, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday said studies will be conducted in Egypt, South East Asian countries and some Indian states in search of the ancient Tamil civilisation.

He said the government's aim is that the history of the Indian subcontinent should be written from Tamil Nadu will be established with proof.

Announcing this in the Assembly on Thursday, Stalin said carbon dating of the paddy found in a burial urn at a burial site at Sivakalai establishes that it belongs to 1155 BC which in turn means people had lived on the banks of the Thamirabarani river 3,200 years ago.

The paddy was sent to the Beta Analytical Laboratory in the US for carbon dating.

He said the findings of artefacts at the excavation sites proves that the civilisation existed prior to 4th century BC.

Stalin said a silver coin that was found at the Keezhadi excavation with sun, moon engravings belong to 4th century BC, that is prior to the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka's period as per the opinion of numismatics expert Susmita Basu Majumbar of Calcutta University.

Archaeological excavations are being done at Kodumanal, Keeladi, Korkai, Mayiladumparai, Sivakalai, Adichchanallur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin said as per the carbon dating of artefacts, the Keeladi civilisation dates back to 6th century BC proving that Tamilians were learned even then.

That Korkai was a port city in ancient times was an established fact through earlier excavations. Now broken black pot pieces of Gangetic plains have been found at Korkai.

Experts have concluded that Korkai might have served as one of the important ports even before the 8th century BC.

Officials said the Mayiladumparai excavation and its associated findings observed at Varatanapalli and Kappalavadi prove that the Neolithic people carried out agricultural activities 4000 years ago.

With Tamil Nadu trade links extending till Egypt and Oman in ancient times as per artefacts found in those countries and Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola conquering South East Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam archaeological studies will be conducted in those countries with necessary permissions.

Similarly archaeological studies will also be undertaken in other Indian states like Andhra Pradesh (Vengi area), Karnataka (Thalaikkadu), Kerala (Pattanam) and Palur in Odisha to understand the antiquity of Tamil civilisation.

Apart from excavations, exploration projects -- Neolithic and Documentation of Rock Art -- are in progress in Tamil Nadu.

The Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department is re-establishing the cultural history of Tamil Nadu through scientific studies.

The Department is collaborating with Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow and French Institute of Pondicherry to understand the palaeoclimate; a DNA analysis is being done in collaboration with Madurai Kamaraj University, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences and Chicago University to understand the origin of Tamils; Metallurgical analysis is being done in association with National Institute of Advanced Studies to understand the iron, steel and high tin bronze technology; Ceramic analysis is being carried out with the help of Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam and Pune University.

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 5 crore in its budget for archaeological findings.

The government will also set up a museum at an outlay of Rs 15 crore at Tirunelveli showcasing the artefacts found during excavations at Adichchanallur, Korkai and Sivakalai.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Former Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam was flown to the national capital in a special medical evacuation flight operated by SpiceJet.

The flight operated on Wednesday brought the ex-Mauritius PM to New Delhi for urgent medical treatment at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).

"SpiceJet used its B737 aircraft to operate the flight (SG-9116) from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, Port Louis, Mauritius, to Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport. For the return leg, the flight was operated via Thiruvananthapuram," SpiceJet said in a statement on Thursday.

"In order to meet the critical medical requirements, SpiceJet facilitated complete medical facilities and special equipment on-board, including a team of three doctors, one paramedic and ventilator, oxygen cylinders, and medicines to cater for any emergency situation. The aircraft also carried a special isolation pod to shift the patient," the company added.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : As the economy recovers from the impact of the second wave of the pandemic, the Finance Ministry has said that global investors are optimistic and upbeat about the Indian economy and are coming in with more investments.

The Monthly Economic Review for August 2021 released by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) on Thursday said that sanguine economic prospects continue to be catalysed by effervescent external sector indicators.

"Buoyed by improvement in economic indicators post ebbing of the second wave, global investors remain upbeat about India's growth story contributing further to FDI and FPI inflows," it said.

The ministry noted that India's foreign exchange reserves surged to a record high of $633.56 billion as on August 27, 2021.

It said that provisional GDP estimates, now available for April-June quarter (Q1) of FY 2021-22, reaffirm India's resilient V-shaped recovery despite a more brutal second wave.

"Having posted an almost 180 degree turnaround from a sharp contraction in Q1 of FY 2020-21, to recover more than 90 per cent of the pre-pandemic Q1 output of 2019-20, the V-shaped economic recovery remains intact." The momentum of India's economic recovery witnessed since the second half of FY 2020-21 did get disrupted by the second wave.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Reliance Infrastructure Ltd on Thursday won a four-year battle for control of money from an arbitration award. The Supreme Court dismissed a plea by Delhi Metro Rail Corporation challenging an arbitration award in favour of Reliance Group, ADAG, led by Anil Ambani, following a dispute on running of Delhi Airport Express Metro line.

The top court said the Delhi High Court was not right in interfering with the award of May 11, 2017 passed in favour of the DAMEPL, a subsidiary of Reliance Infrastructure.

A bench of Justices L. Nageswara Rao and S. Ravindra Bhat said: "We set aside the findings of the High Court and uphold the award by the Tribunal in respect of the computation of Termination Payment under Clause 29.5.2..." The amount over Rs 4,600 crore, including interest, comes as succour for the beleaguered group to repay its debt.

In its 54-page judgment, the bench added: "The appeal filed by the DAMEPL (Delhi Airport Metro Express Pvt Ltd) is allowed and the judgment of the Division Bench of the High Court is set aside. The Appeal arising out of SLP... 2019 filed by DMRC is dismissed." In May 2017, the arbitral tribunal, in its award, had accepted the DAMEPL's claim that the running of operations on the line was not viable due to structural defects in the viaduct through which the train would run.

The bench said that the arbitral tribunal, in its award, has clearly held that DMRC failed to cure the defects before the expiry of 90 days from the initial notice laying down the non-exhaustive list of defects. The bench said: "The conclusion of the Division Bench that the award of the Arbitral Tribunal suffers from patent illegality and shocks the conscience of the court is held to be erroneous." The bench said the members of the arbitral tribunal, nominated in accordance with the agreed procedure between the parties, are engineers and their award is not meant to be scrutinised in the same manner as one prepared by legally trained minds. "Several judicial pronouncements of this court would become a dead letter if arbitral awards are set aside by categorising them as perverse or patently illegal without appreciating the contours of the said expressions," it noted.

Senior advocate Harish Salve, appearing for the DAMEPL, had submitted that the high court committed an error in setting aside the award of the arbitral tribunal by deviating from the well-settled principles for interference under Sections 34 and 37 of the 1996 Act. He had argued that the findings recorded by the arbitral tribunal in relation to the existence of defects in the civil structure and failure on the part of the DMRC in curing those defects/not taking effective steps to cure the defects are findings of fact which cannot be made subject to review by the court exercising its jurisdiction under Section 34.

DMRC counsel supported the judgment of the division bench of the high court by arguing that the award is contrary to public policy.

In August 2008, a joint public private partnership to build, operate and run the airport express line was made between the DMRC and the DAMEPL. The partnership, however, was broken after some defects surfaced in the line which were allegedly not cured by DMRC. Citing safety issues, the DAMEPL then pulled out from running the metro line and took the matter for arbitration, where it won an award in its favour. The tribunal asked DMRC to pay nearly Rs 3,000 crore, along with interest. Since 2013, the DMRC has been running the line.
Gurugram, Sep 9 : In protest against the suspension of Superintendent Engineer (SE) Ramesh Sharma of the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), the Sarva Karmachari Sangh along with the MCG's engineering wing has announced an indefinite strike from Friday.

During the strike, the services of the fire department along with the sanitation system, sewerage system in the city may collapse. However, union leaders have said that the strike will not have any effect on the emergency services.

All the officers and employees of the Engineer Wing of the corporation went on a pen-down strike on Thursday after the suspension of SE Ramesh Sharma.

The engineers and employees protested by wearing black bands and raised slogans against the administration and the government. During this, MCG Welfare Association of All Engineers, Sarva Employees Union, Contractors Union also submitted a memorandum to Joint Commissioner Headquarters Hari Om Atri, addressing the MCG Commissioner.

The corporation engineers alleged that a councillor's husband and the son of the mayor Madhu Azad interfere in the work of the corporation, as well as participate in the internal meetings of the corporation.

A senior MCG official on condition of anonymity said that he does not have any problem with the councillor's husband and the mayor's son in the meetings of the corporation, but in these meetings the councillor's husband and the mayor's son misbehave with the officers and insult them. He said that this has happened many times.

"This is not the first time, this has happened many times. I was also abused a few days ago by the councillor's husband. No more insults will be tolerated. We demand that instead of unilateral action, a completely fair investigation should be conducted in the matter. Whoever is guilty should be punished," said an MCG official requesting anonymity.

"Sharma has been suspended wrongly, our entire union is with him. Our strike will continue. Our sweepers and all employees of the fire brigade will participate in this strike, the full responsibility for which will be on the government and the municipal administration" said Naresh Malakat, Secretary, Municipality Sarva Employees Union Haryana.

"The suspension of SE is right, He had misbehaved with me during a MCG meeting over the non-completion of a task which was related to public problems and we are here to resolve the people's complaints related to the MCG. The officers who are on strike are disobeying the orders of all the civic ministers," Madhu Azad, Mayor, MCG, told IANS.

Meanwhile, MCG Commissioner Mukesh Kumar Ahuja has said in the order issued on Thursday to all the officers and employees of the MCG that meetings and other administrative matters related to the business transactions of the civic body, should be attended by the members ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Haryana Municipal Corporation Act, 1994.
Mumbai, Sep 9 : In another embarrassment for Union MSME Minister Narayan Rane, the Pune police's Crime Branch has issued 'Lookout Circulars' against his wife and legislator son in alleged loan default cases of over Rs 65 crore.

The LOCs have been authorised by three parties, including the Union Home Ministry, the lender, and the financial institution (Dewan Housing Finance Ltd), followed by a complaint by Maharashtra government on August 20.

However, there is no FIR, or any other court proceedings shown in the matter of issuing the LOCs against Rane's wife, Nilam Narayan Rane and son and Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Nitesh Narayan Rane.

The LOCs mention Nilam Rane as a co-borrower of a loan amount of Rs 25 crore in the name of Artline Properties Pvt Ltd and Nitesh Rane as a co-borrower of a loan amount of Rs 40 crore in the name of Neelam Hotels Pvt Ltd, both companies in Mumbai.

Referring to the NPA outstandings, the LOCs said: "In the aforesaid circumstances, there is an apprehension and fear that the said co-borrower may leave the country anytime with a malafide intention to evade repayment of the loan granted by DHFL and escape the legal actions that may be taken against (them) civil/criminal by the DHFL." It directed the Mumbai Airport authorities to open the LOCs, and whenever the co-borrowers are intercepted at the airport, their arrival/departure it should be intimated to the Pune police Crime Branch.

Both these loans accounts stand with the DHFL, Mumbai, but were subsequently classified as 'non-performing assets' (NPAs), as per the norms of the National Housing Bank and the Reserve Bank of India, say the police notices.

With the dues now standing at Rs 27,13,18,931 and Rs 34,09,61,771, respectively, the Pune Crime Branch has issued the LOCs against the mother-son duo, to the Assistant Director, Look Out Cell, at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA).

Confirming to IANS that the circulars were issued on September 3, Deputy Commissioner of Police Shrinivas Ghadge, however, flatly declined further comments in the matter.

Flaying the developments, Nitesh Rane told media persons that since the loan accounts and the lenders are in Mumbai, how come the Pune police has stepped into the picture.

"Moreover, five months ago, we had agreed to settle the loans availed from the DHFL," he added.

Later, he launched a direct attack on State Tourism Minister Aditya Thackeray demanding a LOC against him, triggering yet another political row between the BJP and Shiv Sena.

"Nandkishor Chaturvedi who is apparently missing for months now or rather absconding has been a partner with Min Aditya T. Shouldn't Pune crime branch where this person is? A LOC should be issued here too so Aditya T doesn't fly out of the country What's the mystery??" he said in a tweet.

The two LOCs come barely 15 days after Narayan Rane "created history" on August 24 by becoming the first Union Minister from Maharashtra to be arrested by the state police, and getting sent to magisterial custody for 10 days but later securing conditional bail from the same court.

The arrest capped a massive political drama in the wake of "tight slap slur" against Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, which sparked a furore in Shiv Sena circles.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at q.najmi@ians.in)
New Delhi, Sep 9: The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Italy has announced that it will be closed on Thursday, September 9, 2021 to mark the respect of Afghanistans national hero Ahmad Shah Massoud on his 20th death anniversary. Massoud was the only chief Afghan leader who never left Afghanistan in the fight against the Soviet Union and later in the armed struggle against the Taliban.

Massoud,who was leading the last remaining resistance to the Taliban capture of Afghanistan, was killed by suicide bombers of the Taliban and al-Qaeda in his residence on September 9, 2001, two days before the 9/11. After the Taliban's fall in 2001, he was declared the national hero of the country and September 9 was marked as martyr day.

Unsurprisingly, the Taliban detest Massoud and his clan. They even tried to destroy his tomb in Panjshir on Tuesday.

Two decades later, Massoud's son Ahmad Massoud is once again fighting the Taliban to protect his father's legacy. He is ably assisted by Amrullah Saleh, a former aide to Afghanistan's famous war hero.

"The Taliban want the world to recognize them, and then they want to oppress the Afghan people again," Ahmad Massoud has declared. "If someone invades our land, we will fight against it and defend ourselves and the rights of the Afghan people." The junior Massoud has launched a guerrilla war against the Taliban who have managed to capture parts of the Panjshir valley with the active support of the Pakistani army.

Pakistani Air Force planes and special forces battalions provided military support to the Taliban operation in Panjshir, Russian news agency Sputnik reported on Wednesday. The report says that four JF-7 fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force including 27 Pakistani special forces helicopters and drones, are assisting the Taliban in their quest.

Like Italy, many embassies of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan are opposing the regime of Islamic Emirate Afghanistan foisted by the Taliban. Afghanistan's embassy in India has also refused to represent the Taliban government. Abdulhaq Azad, a spokesperson of the Afghan embassy in Delhi told Deccan Herald that it will continue to represent the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in India and not the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan established by the Taliban.

"The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in New Delhi will continue to provide services to the citizens of Afghanistan in India," Azad said.

Earlier, during the Taliban's aggression, the Afghan envoy had asked India to help his country with airpower against the Taliban.

"The avoidable suffering of Afghanistan is man-made and at a scale beyond all civilised contemplation," he had said. Afghanistan is going through a difficult time, and only good leadership, compassionate attitude and international support to the Afghan people "would somewhat bring an end to these miseries", Farid Mamundzay, the Afghan envoy observed.

This is a repeat of 1996 when the then Afghan ambassador to India Masoud Khalili refused to pledge allegiance to the Taliban following India's refusal to recognise the Taliban regime. Khalili, was a close friend of Ahmad Shah Massoud, the leader of the anti-Taliban force the Northern alliance.

The previous Taliban regime was recognised only by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

While countries of the world have yet to decide about giving recognition to the Taliban government, all the Afghan embassies will be known as representatives of the previous Afghan government, as per the recognition by the United Nations.

Other Afghan embassies have also refused to pledge allegiance to the Taliban government. Ashraf Haidari, Afghanistan's ambassador to Sri Lanka has been always critical of the Taliban. On Tuesday, he slammed the Taliban for their government formations.

"The beginning of the end of imposed totalitarianism: foreign madrassa militants deployed to target Afghans -- Afghan women -- at point-blank range is unforgivable by any standards of humanity. The UN knows, Biden knows which UN member-state plays with Afghan lives," Haidari posted on Twitter.

Said T Jawad, Kabul's envoy to Russia, retweeted a video of protests by Afghans in front of the Embassy of Pakistan in the capital of his country.

Shukria Barakzai, Afghan envoy in Oslo retweeted a post from a journalist which slammed the Taliban. "The Taliban government has 33 mullahs and 4 people under US sanctions but zero women or people from other political groups. Son of late leader Mullah Omar is Defence Minister. They say they have changed but this is hardline." Afghanistan's envoy to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar had accused the Taliban and Pakistan of plotting to kill anti-resistance leaders Ahmad Massoud and acting president Amrullah Saleh in the Panjshir battle.

It may be recalled how Pakistani security agencies ill treated the Afghan envoy's daughter's kidnapping case, following which, the then Afghan government had to recall its diplomats from Pakistan.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Sep 9 : The government is giving production of edible oils very high priority, and this is reflected in the mustard seeds seeing the highest production, going up from 91 LMT to 101 LMT this year, an official statement said on Thursday.

Meanwhile, palm oil (crude and refined) import quantity for August 2021 was 7.43 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) as against 5.65 LMT in July 2021, an increase of 31.5 per cent from the previous month, which was largely due to opening up of the economy, the Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution Ministry statement said.

Due to a gap between demand and supply, around 60 per cent of the edible oils consumed in the country are met through imports. Palm oil constitutes around 54 per cent of the total edible oil imports, and is sourced mainly from Indonesia and Malaysia, while soyabean oil constitutes around 25 per cent and is imported from Argentina and Brazil. Sunflower oil constitutes 19 per cent and is imported mainly from Ukraine, the release said.

A close watch is kept on day-to-day basis on production, imports, and prices of edible oils and so that appropriate measures can be taken to keep a check on the prices of edible oil, it said.

Taking year on year comparison for the month of August, it can be seen that the total palm oil imports (crude and refined) for 2019, 2020 and 2021 was 8.81 LMT, 7.48 LMT and 7.43 LMT, respectively, which is still below the usual demand in the economy.

An Inter-Ministerial Committee on Agri-Commodities chaired by the Food Secretary is also in place to closely monitor the prices and availability of agricultural commodities including edible oil keeping in view the interests of the farmer, industry, and consumers.

The committee reviews the price situation on a weekly basis, and considers relevant measures in relation to edible oils and other food items, depending on the domestic production, demand, domestic and international prices, and international trade volumes.

Timely interventions by the government have been made in the last year as and when needed so as to ensure that the prices remain stable, and interest of consumers is protected within the limitations of international fluctuations.
Agartala/New Delhi, Sep 9 : Central and state security forces have been deployed in different parts of Tripura on Thursday, which witnessed a series of political clashes and arsoning since Wednesday while the ruling and opposition parties held protest rallies against these hostilities, the police and party sources said.

CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought the Centre's intervention to stop political violence against the Left parties in Tripura.

Inspector General of Police (law and order), Arindam Nath, said that besides the Tripura State Rifles, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel have been deployed in the strategic and sensitive locations across the state.

"As the CRPF troopers are efficient in dealing with political and mob violence, we have deployed the central para-military personnel in different strategic and sensitive locations across the state.

"So far, four people have been arrested in Udaipur, while one person has been detained in Agartala in connection with the political violence in Tripura," Nath told IANS.

The officer added that the case related to the attack on a newspaper office (Pratibadi Kalam) on Wednesday has been handed over to the Crime Branch.

Senior CPI-M leader Pabitra Kar said that in a pre-planned fashion, the BJP workers accompanied by goons in the past 48 hours attacked and burnt down at least 55 party offices in all the eight districts of the state, including the state party headquarters and CITU head office in Agartala and Gomati.

Kar alleged that the BJP supporters also burnt down many houses of CPI-M leaders and workers, besides gutting over six vehicles and more than a dozen two-wheelers. Scores of party leaders and workers have been injured in Agartala and other places of the state, he said..

"Even the media was not spared from the attacks by the ruling party workers and hooligans. The offices of 'PB-24 News', 'Pratibadi Kalam' and the CPI-M supported newspaper 'Daily Desharkatha' were attacked, leading to the damage of huge number of assets," Kar told the media.

Yeachury in his letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the impunity with which the BJP 'gangs' operated shows the connivance of the state government.

"These attacks took place because the ruling party has tried and failed to suppress the activities of the main opposition in the state.

"The Central government, in particular the Union Home Ministry, should intervene immediately to ensure that the rule of law prevails and the rights of citizens are protected in Tripura," the Left leader wrote in the letter.

CPI General Secretary D. Raja said in a statement that he has spoken to CPI-M politburo member and former Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar on the matter, and the Left parties would unitedly resist the violence of the BJP-RSS combine.

Meanwhile, BJP leader Rajiv Bhattacharjee and party spokesman Nabendu Bhattacharjee said that Sarkar and CPI-M leaders themselves have been instigating violence in different parts of Tripura to create chaos in the peaceful state.

Rajiv Bhattacharjee said that Sarkar, while visiting his Assembly constituency in Dhanpur on Monday, provoked the CPI-M workers to unleash attacks on the BJP workers.

"People of the state do not want to recur the political violence that was a regular feature during the 25 years of CPI-M rule.

"If the CPI-M workers attack the BJP men, there would definitely be a reaction. We want peace and development in the state," he stated.

The BJP, as well as the opposition CPI-M and Trinamool Congress, organised separate rallies across Tripura protesting against the unprecedented political violence that has been witnessed in all the eight districts of the state since Wednesday.
Chennai, Sep 9 : Deans of all medical colleges in Tamil Nadu were on Thursday directed to conduct 100 per cent vaccination in the hospitals attached to them during the mega Covid vaccination drive on September 12.

In a meeting convened with the deans, Director of Medical Education, Dr R. Narayana Babu said that the medical colleges must be prepared for the drive, and vaccinate the attendants of patients as well as medical college mess workers and other staff.

The office of the DME, in a statement, said that the deans have been directed to have special focus on the elderly population as well as the vulnerable people.

Deans were asked to form three or four teams and have both fixed as well as mobile vaccination camps.

These teams can work in association with the Greater Chennai Corporation in the state capital, while in other districts, they will work with Joint/Deputy Directors of Health Services.

Tamil Nadu is gearing up for a mega vaccination camp with 10,000 camps across the state on September 12. State Health Minister Ma Subramanian has approached the Central government for a special additional allotment of 1 crore doses of vaccine to be used during the drive.
Kolkata: BJP West Bengal State President Dilip Ghosh with other leaders paying last respect to post poll violence victim BJP activist Abhijit Sarkar from BJP Headquarter in Kolkata on Thursday, September 09, 2021. (Photo: Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata: BJP West Bengal State President Dilip Ghosh with other leaders paying last respect to post poll violence victim BJP activist Abhijit Sarkar from BJP Headquarter in Kolkata on Thursday, September 09, 2021. (Photo: Kuntal Chakrabarty/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, Sep 9 : After 130 days, the Kolkata police under the direction of the court on Thursday handed over the body of slain BJP worker Abhijit Sarkar to his family members and leaders of the party.

Sarkar was allegedly killed in the post-poll violence that broke out in West Bengal after the declaration of Assembly election results on May 2.

Sarkar's body was preserved at the NRS Medical College and Hospital here for the purpose of investigation. It was handed over to his family following directions from the court. The court had earlier ordered a DNA test on the body since Sarkar's family could not identify it.

The family had continuously alleged that the Kolkata police are not investigating the matter properly and are not arresting the 'Trinamool goons' responsible for the murder, who are not only moving scot-free, but also threatening the family members.

Biswajit Sarkar, the elder brother of the victim, has filed petitions to probe Sarkar's death before the Supreme Court and the Calcutta high court.

Sarkar was allegedly strangled to death with a television cable. He was the only BJP worker who died in the state capital in the post-poll violence.

On August 19, based on a report by the National Human Rights Commission, the Calcutta High Court had ordered a CBI investigation into the cases of rape and murder that were reported during the post-poll violence in the state.

After the central agency spoke to the family members of Sarkar, the latter requested to release his body which was allowed by the court.

There was chaos all over NRS Medical College and Hospital in the afternoon when Biswajit Sarkar along with BJP leaders reached there to take possession of the body.

The BJP leaders, including MP Arjun Singh, Sajal Ghosh and others, complained of police non-cooperation leading to unnecessary delay in handing over the body to the family.

Devdutta Maji, a BJP leader, was seen engaged in verbal duel with the police officers present there. Maji allegedly slapped a home guard when Kolkata police personnel were managing the entry point to the morgue where the body was kept.

"There was some jostling when the police tried to stop us. I did not hit anyone intentionally. If charges are pressed, I will fight them out in the court," said Maji.

Though the Kolkata police did not comment on the alleged assault by Maji, Trinamool Congress general secretary Kunal Ghosh said, "He should be booked immediately. The government made all the arrangements to hand over the body, but the BJP created trouble." Defending Maji, Bengal BJP chief Dilip Ghosh said, "If he slapped a home guard, he did not do anything wrong. I cannot believe someone to be so inhuman. They are still harassing and insulting our people." The body was then taken to the state BJP headquarters in central Kolkata. It was later taken to Sarkar's home. The cremation took place in the afternoon.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Raising concerns over unplanned urbanisation in the Himalayas, National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) Director General Rajiv Ranjan Mishra said that there cannot be similar master plans for cities in plains and hills.

"Himalayan hill towns face several challenges because of poor building planning & designs, poor infrastructure (roads, sewage, water supply etc) and unprecedented cutting of trees. This causes serious ecological issues.

"There is an urgent need to develop eco-sensitive hill town plans and designs," he said at the Himalaya Diwas function organised by the NMCG in association with Naula Foundation. This year's theme was 'Contribution of Himalayas and Our Responsibilities'.

Himalaya Diwas is celebrated every year on September 9 in Uttarakhand. Thursday event was part of the ongoing celebration of 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', a release from the Jal Shakti Ministry said.

Explaining the significance of Himalayas, Mishra said that they are a source of strength and valuable heritage not only for India but the entire world and need to be preserved. "This can be made possible with scientific knowledge along with community involvement and we welcome Naula Foundation's efforts," he said.

About the efforts of Naula Foundation in conserving the Himalayan ecosystem, its President Bishan Singh underscored the need of focusing on traditional methods of water conservation and working with local communities.

A technical session on emphasising the need of 'Ganga Rejuvenation for Sustainable Himalayas' was conducted at the event. Professor Rajiv Sinha from IIT Kanpur, Professor A.S. Maurya from IIT Roorkee, and Professor Venkatesh Dutta shared ideas on various scientific aspects of conservation of Himalayas and its ecosystem.

Understanding the contribution of the Himalayas, the NMCG has sanctioned various projects. One such project is 'Rejuvenation of dying springs in Tokoli Gad catchment of Tehri Garhwal district using Geo-chemical & Geo-physical techniques' by IIT Roorkee. The NMCG has also sanctioned a project titled 'Cultural Mapping of river Ganga from Gaumukh to Ganga Sagar' by INTACH. Under the project, the tangible and intangible heritage of river and the cities, is being documented. Uttarkashi, Tehri Garhwal, Haridwar, and Rudra Prayag are the important Himalayan cities covered under the project, the release said.
Dakshina Kannada : , Sep 9 (IANS) Two accused persons imprisoned on charges of writing pro-terrorist statements on the wall near an apartment in Dakshina Kannada district have been released from the jail, police sources said on Thursday.

Get Outlook for Android Dakshina Kannada (Karnataka), Sep 9 (IANS) Two accused persons imprisoned on charges of writing pro-terrorist statements on the wall near an apartment in Dakshina Kannada district have been released from the jail, police sources said on Thursday.

Mohammad Sharreq and Sadat Hussain, both residents of Theerthahalli, were granted bail by the Karnataka High Court on Wednesday. Another accused in the case, an engineering student, was granted bail by the Mangaluru sessions court in January.

The accused had reportedly written on the wall near the Bejai apartment in November 2020 that "Do not force us to unite with the Taliban and Lashkar-e-Taiba to deal with the Sanghis and Manuvaadis". They had also written "Lashkar Zindabad" on the wall, it was alleged.

The graffiti had created fear among the people in the district following which sleuths from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) came down to Mangaluru to investigate the matter.

The accused have told the investigating officers that one Arafath Ali, also from Teerthahalli, had guided them to write the threatening graffiti on the wall to create fear in the minds of the people.

The accused had told the police that Ali gave them the exact words to be written on the wall. The police are yet to arrest Ali.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : The Delhi government on Thursday announced that it will come out with a 10-point winter action plan to combat city's toxic air pollution.

Prime among the points for the action plan is controlling the stubble burning in neighbouring states, for which a committee set up by the Delhi government will reach out to these states for a dialogue.

Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai held a meeting to chalk out an action plan based on the 10-point agenda.

The other issues for the winter action plan are to control dust pollution, stop waste burning, identification of new hot spots of air pollution, and special care of areas which are most polluted in the city.

Smog towers, setting up a war room for pollution-related issues, upgradation of 'Delhi green App' and regular dialogue with the Central government are the other points on the agenda of the action plan committee.

Chairing the first meeting of this year to prepare the action plan ahead of the winter, Rai said: "The problem of pollution is not limited to Delhi alone. If there's a bump in pollution levels in Ghaziabad, it will naturally impact Delhi as well. Similarly, if something happens in Haryana, Rajasthan or UP, that too will impact Delhi. Thus, a team will be put together which will hold discussions with the neighbouring states of Delhi and discuss solutions with them." He said that a high-level meeting to be held on September 14 will also have officials from the Municipal Corporations of Delhi (MCDs), the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), and the Public Works Department (PWD).

"A complete winter action plan will be ready by the end of September," he added.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Indian Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Bhupender Yadav on Thursday met Danish Climate, Energy and Utilities Minister Dan Jorgensen to discuss general bilateral cooperation in the areas of environment and climate change.

Jorgensen is on five days' visit to India with a business delegation.

Acknowledging the historical and friendly ties between the two countries, Yadav highlighted the contribution of Denmark in the 'White Revolution' in India, because of which today India is the largest producer of milk in the world, an Environment Ministry release said.

Yadav also appreciated the contributions of Denmark in setting up the clean and wind energy hub in Tamil Nadu and Danish companies that have made significant investments in India in diverse sectors.

Both the ministers held discussion on Green Strategic Partnership (GSP) and upcoming COP26 meeting, the annual climate change conference that would be held at Glasgow.

Reinstating the findings of the recent report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Physical Science Summary for Policy Makers (SPM), Yadav highlighted that the world must recall about the forgotten phrases 'Equity, CBDR-RC, and National Circumstances' that are the bedrock of UNFCCC (the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change) and its Paris Agreement and emphasised that COP26 should ensure a balanced outcome with equal treatment to all agenda items like adaptation, finance, response measures, etc.

The two environment ministers also discussed the Joint Action Plan to take forward the Green Strategic Partnership (GSP) in the environment sector.
Vijayawada, Sep 9 : Actor Sonu Sood on Thursday extended his support to farmers of Amaravati, who have been protesting for more than 600 days against the shifting of the state capital.

Some farmers from Amaravati including women called on Sonu Sood at Gannavaram Airport when he landed there for a visit to Vijayawada. They urged him to support their movement, which entered 632nd day on Thursday.

The actor, who has been playing good Samaritan since Covid-19 pandemic broke out last year and has been lending a helping hand to people in distress, assured the farmers that he is with them. "Of course I am with you," he told farmers when they sought his support.

Farmers have been protesting at various places in Amaravati over the state government's plans for trifurcation of the state capital. They are demanding that Amaravati be retained as the single state capital.

The YSR Congress Party government led by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has decided to shift administrative capital to Visakhapatnam and judicial capital to Kurnool while retaining Amaravati as only the legislative capital.

Meanwhile Sonu Sood, often called real hero for his support to poor and the needy, received a warm welcome at the airport from his fans. "Public is the real hero. We are just normal people," he told reporters.

The actor was in Vijayawada to inaugurate a private hospital. He also had darshan at Kanaka Druga temple atop Indirakiladri. Temple officials accorded him a warm welcome. The temple priests blessed him and presented him 'prasadam' and mementoes.

Later, talking to reporters the actor said he prayed for an early end to the pandemic so that people can live the normal life again.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday reviewed the security situation and implementation of the development projects in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Army chief, Gen M.M. Naravane, Intelligence Bureau Chief Arvinda Kumar, Research & Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Samant Kumar Goel, Border Security Forces Director General Pankaj Singh and Central Reserve Police Force DG Kuldeep Singh participated in a high-level meeting here in North Block, apart from the high officials of the Home Ministry and the J&K government.

This was the first review meeting in the Home Ministry after the Taliban took over Afghanistan and the security situation in UT was discussed threadbare along with the development projects being implemented there.

After the Taliban takeover, terror threats loom over the J&K as the intelligence inputs suggest that terror outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and al-Badr have been planning to infiltrate.

The inputs also confirmed that the launch pads in Pakistan have been humming with activities near the border indicating an increase in planning for infiltration. These launch pads were abandoned after a ceasefire was announced in February this year.

However, the Jammu and Kashmir Police Dilbagh Singh and CRPF DG Kuldeep Singh have already said that the security forces are on high alert and ready to handle the security situation.

In the meeting, the Home Minister also reviewed the steps being taken to check infiltration from across the border and maintain peace in the UT, official sources said.

The political situation after the demise of the Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani was also discussed in the meeting, the sources added.

While reviewing the ongoing development projects in Jammu and Kashmir, Shah expressed satisfaction over the progress and also appreciated the initiatives taken by the UT administration.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : The Taliban have objected to the recent statement issued by the United States on the blacklisted status of new Interior Minister of Afghanistan, Sirajuddin Haqqani.

According to a statement issued by Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, Washington's position on continued sanctions is in violation of the Doha agreement signed between the two parties in February last year, Ariana News reported.

"The Islamic Emirate considers this position as a clear violation of the Doha agreement which is neither in the interest of the United States nor Afghanistan," the statement read.

The Taliban also objected to recent comments made about Haqqani network's Sirajudin Haqqani, who has been appointed as the Islamic Emirate's acting Interior Minister, the report said..

Haqqani is blacklisted by the US and carries a $10 million bounty on his head.

"The family of honorable Haqqani Sahib is part of Islamic Emirate and does not have a separate name or organisational setup.

"Similarly, in Doha Agreement all officials of the Islamic Emirate without any exception were part of interaction with the US and should have been removed from the UN and US blacklists, a demand which still remains valid," the statement read.

"That America and other countries are making such provocative statements and trying to meddle [in] the internal affairs of Afghanistan, the Islamic Emirate condemns it in the strongest terms.

"Such remarks by US officials are a repetition of past failed experiments and such positions detrimental for America. We urge that these incorrect policies be immediately reversed through diplomatic interactions," it added.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 9 : The Monsoon Session of Odisha Assembly, which started on September 1, ended on Thursday as per the schedule.

Following the presentation of several reports, including four CAG reports and a resolution, Speaker S.N. Patro announced the end of the session.

The eight-day session was stormy as the members of the treasury bench and opposition locked horns over issues like the drought-like situation in some parts of the state, the law and order situation, 'corruption' in the Odisha State Staff Selection Commission and the alleged mining scam.

On the last day too, the Assembly witnessed uproar by the Opposition over the 'mining scam' and suicide of a youth allegedly because of lack of treatment.

The entire pre-lunch session of the Assembly was washed away as the Opposition members created ruckus in the House, which was first adjourned till 11.30 a.m. and later till 4 p.m.

The post-lunch session also witnessed protest by the Opposition members. After the Speaker did not hear the Opposition members and continued the proceedings amid uproar, the BJP and Congress MLAs staged a walk-out from the House.

BJP chief whip Mohan Majhi said, "After remaining in power for five times, the BJD government has become egoistic. That's why the government is not ready to discuss the mining issue. We gave a new proposal for an adjournment notice on the mining issue in which we did not mention corruption. There is no justification for rejecting it." Majhi also raised the issue of the death of Dusmanta Das, a youth from Jagatsinghpur district who attempted suicide in front of the Assembly on Wednesday in protest against denial of treatment. The youth was denied treatment despite being a card holder of Odisha government's Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY) scheme, he said.

Congress legislator Santosh Singh Saluja alleged that the Speaker did not allow a discussion on the mining scam under pressure from the government even though the notice was submitted in a proper way. The government is deliberately avoiding a discussion on the mining scam since it is involved in it, he said.

To counter the opposition, the treasury bench members staged a dharna near the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the Assembly premises.

They raised slogans alleging Central negligence in providing required quantity of fertiliser in time to the state and failure to give compensation to the farmers under the Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY).

The ruling party members were demanding proper minimum support price (MSP) for paddy as per the recommendation of the MS Swaminathan Committee.

During the eight days, the House passed 13 Bills, including the much-awaited Odisha Panchayat Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021 and the Odisha Municipal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021 to keep the overall reservation in the local bodies up to 50 per cent. The House also passed two resolutions in this session.
New Delhi, Sep 9 : Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Kumar Mishra on Thursday said that global level preparations are needed to fight against cyber crimes.

Inaugurating the national conference of Chief Information Security Officers, Chief Risk Officers, and intermediaries here, he said that since cyber space is boundary-less, we need to have world standards in preparations to fight against cyber crime.

Noting that the investigation and prevention of cyber crime has been a challenging task, Mishra said: "On the one hand, cyberspace has made positive impacts on human lives, but it has increased our dependence on cyber technologies and as a result, it has also posed security challenges before us." Appreciating the active role of the National Cyber Crime Research and Innovation Center (NCR&IC) and Modernisation Division of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D), he said these wings have been working in the field of capacity building of Law Enforcing Agencies (LEAs) to tackle cyber crime and cyber-security challenges.

On the occasion, BPR&D Director General Balaji Srivastava detailed the activities being undertaken by the NCR&IC and Modernisation Division for capacity building of LEAs with regard to cyber crime investigation, digital forensics, and cyber crime prevention.

He also said that both have been spearheading research and development in partnership with leading academic institutions to develop research-based tools for LEAs for prevention and investigation of cyber crimes.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has been actively working towards ensuring a safe cyberspace for the country. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), founded in 2018 by the MHA, is a special purpose unit to fight cyber crime and cyber security challenges.

The cyber crime reporting portal, launched in 2019, is one of the most significant achievements of I4C. This portal is a citizen centric crime reporting portal. The national helpline 155260 launched by I4C is helping the common citizen in registering financial frauds.
Jaipur, Sep 10 : Rajasthan's Smart City Udaipur will figure on the path of the bullet train running between Delhi and Ahmedabad, at a speed of 350 km per hour, to make the journey only three hours, officials said on Thursday.

The National High Speed Rail Corporation Ltd officials gave a presentation on the ambitious project to Uduipur District Collector Chetan Deora and discussed it in detail.

Officials under the leadership of NHSRC Ltd Executive Director Anup Agarwal and Survey Manager Rajiv Dutt furnished detailed information on points related to preparation of DPR of the Delhi-Ahmedabad high speed train.

It was informed that 75 percent of the total 875 km long track of this project i.e. 657 km track, will come up in Rajasthan. This trek will pass through seven of the state' districts - Alwar, Jaipur, Ajmer, Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Udaipur and Dungarpur. Udaipur district will have total 127 km of the track.

The proposed stations in Rajasthan shall be constructed at Behror, Shahjahanpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Vijaynagar, Bhilwara, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, and Dungarpur.

RITES DGM P.K. Rao informed that a total of 9 stations are proposed to be built under this 127 km track in Udaipur.

Corporation officials said that due to technical reasons related to safety in train operation, the entire track will be made differently, and will be elevated on pillars, while eight tunnels of less than one kilometre distance will also be built in Udaipur district, which will be on the ground. In this sense, the issue of land acquisition will be minimised. Similarly, this track will also pass over five rivers.

Officials said that to give concrete shape to this project, a survey of the entire track will be done by helicopter and on the basis of this survey, a detailed project report will be prepared. After approval of the DPR, the project will be implemented on the ground.
New Delhi Sep 10 : China has been pursuing a duplicitous policy towards Myanmar which hinges on border security, relations between Beijing and Naypyitaw and Chinas ambitious BRI projects in Myanmar.

China finds itself in an advantageous position given the geo-political matrix that prevails along the China Myanmar border and Chinese links with various Myanmar-based insurgent organisations.

The China-Myanmar border remains critical for China per se mainly because of the presence of ethnic groups along both sides of the border with strong common identities. For instance, the Kachins in Myanmar and Jinphos in China are of the same ethnic stock while the Wa are found on both sides of the border. There is also a significant Mandarin speaking Han population inside Myanmar who have close linkages with families inside China. These are people who have settled in the area over the years.

Such deep ethic linkages have been a concern for the Chinese as Beijing would not want to see the spillover of any intra ethnic confrontation into its own territory. Moreover, there have been times when Myanmar Air Force aircraft have accidentally flown into Chinese territory during anti-insurgency operations and shells fired by the Myanmar Army have at times landed on the Chinese side. With the insurgent groups usually resorting to arms and drug smuggling to sustain their operations, China remains concerned about them.

At the same time, Beijing realises the advantage of remaining in touch with such ethnic entities as it not only serves the purpose of better understanding their activities and keeping them under control, but also use them as a tool to exert pressure on the Myanmar government.

The peculiar geographical feature of Myanmar with various ethnic groups located at distant locations, almost disconnected from the centre, has opened the space for China to engage them with more alacrity. The Chinese approach has been to either collaborate with the government and neutralise such groups or to work closely with them groups. Given a choice, China prefers the latter option.

China has been maintaining close relations with the various ethnic groups spread along the border to the extent that their control over some of these groups is more impacting than that of the Myanmar Government. China has been able to influence these groups to participate in internal negotiations with the Myanmar government thus sending out a signal to Naypyitaw that China intends to play a positive and recognised role in Myanmar government's negotiations with these groups.

China thus has been calibrating its relations with Myanmar at different levels with the ethnic issue being one of the crucial components of its Myanmar engagement. China designated a special envoy to serve as lead point of contact and formal observer to Myanmar's peace talks who plays a crucial role in facilitating talks between ethnic armed organisations and Myanmar government. This excessive control of China over the Myanmar insurgent groups remains a cause of concern for Myanmar.

At the bilateral level, China has remained engaged with the Myanmar government at different levels, including in the international arena where China has supported Myanmar as and when Myanmar faced flak by the internationalcommunity on issues such as ethnic cleansing in the Rakhine State. China has protected Myanmar fromsanctions at the UN in the past on the issue.

There has also been a high frequency of visits between the two sides, especially after the military Junta came into position. Visiting Chinese leaders have reiterated the Chinese position that China intends to work closely with the military government in Myanmar to boost mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation and settle all problems jointly.

The BRI projects are of prime significance to the Chinese and they would go to any extent to safeguard theseprojects. On this issue, while they need the support and assist the Myanmar government, at the same time they would have to ensure that the insurgent groups operating in areas where the projects are being implemented are also kept on the right side of the Chinese.

There is no doubt that the BRI projects are of prime relevance to the Chinese and they would want them to be viable and safe from any hindrance. In July 2018, Myanmar approved three economic cooperation zones on the Myanmar-China border. Moreover, the China-Myanmar high-speed railway project or the Kunming-Kyauk Phyu Railway, was revived when China and Myanmar signed an MoU in October 2018to conduct a feasibility study.

China would never let go the natural advantage it has in Myanmar to be able to placate various insurgent groups and keep the power center in Naypyitaw on the edge. The ability of these insurgent groups to strike hard successfully against the Myanmar Army gives China the added advantage of keeping the Myanmar government in line.

The possibility of the Chinese adding teeth to select insurgent groups and enabling them to become more lethal, thereby exerting pressure on the Myanmar government in case the situation so demands remains a reality today. China has also been wary of Myanmar's relations with other countries in the region and in the event of any deviation of track by Myanmar in as far as its foreign relations is concerned, China has enough possibilities to cause irritation to Naypyitaw playing the insurgency card. An unstable Myanmar would be detriment to the interest of the Myanmar government.
Patna, Sep 10 : The replacement of close aides of Union Minister R.C.P. Singh from their posts in the Janata Dal-United continued on Thursday with party President Lalan Singh removing Anil Kumar Singh and Chandan Singh.

Both of them were state General Secretaries.

Lalan Singh, after his appointment, has already removed more than six officials from key party posts, and all are said to be trusted men of R.C.P Singh.

He chairing an assessment meeting of different wings of the party where he removed these two party officials.

They were replaced by Navin Kumar Arya, and Mritunjay Kumar. Lalan Singh has also given key posts to Vasudev Kushwaha and Manish Kumar, seen as his close aides.

"We cannot tolerate anyone who are not performing well to strengthen the party on the ground," Lalan Singh said.

He also said that the party will dissolve the posts of the in charges of Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha constituencies.

"We will name two in charges in one district and they will work in tandem with district President to strengthen the organisation. Similarly, the the chief of different wings will work together with district President, block Presidents and village Panchayat representatives," he said.
Belgrade, Sep 10 : Construction of the first Chinese Covid-19 vaccine production facility in Europe started in Serbia on Thursday.

The factory is planned to produce 30 million vaccine doses annually starting in April 2022, and is expected to supply Serbia and several countries in the region and Europe with the Chinese-developed Sinopharm vaccines, the Xinhua news agency reported.

The foundation stone for the new factory was laid by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in the presence of Chinese Ambassador Chen Bo, according to a press release from the President's office.

Vucic said that he was proud that Serbia, together with partners from China and the UAE, was "trying and seems to be able to solve some global problems." "This is not a partnership of interest but a proof of friendship," Vucic said.

Back in January this year, Serbia started a mass vaccination campaign with the Sinopharm jab, which has been most widely used among Serbian citizens along with products from other manufacturers.

In June, Serbia started to produce Russia's Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine at the Institute of Virology, Vaccines and Sera "Torlak" in Belgrade.

Chinese vaccines, including Sinopharm and Sinovac, have been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) for emergency use.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday while addressing the 13th BRICS summit via video link that China will strive to provide a total of 2 billion doses of Covid-19 vaccines to the world by the end of this year, noting that China, to date, has provided more than 1 billion doses of finished and bulk vaccines to over 100 countries and international organisations.

Since the pandemic broke out, China has sent medical aid and batches of vaccines to Serbia and helped build two "Fire Eye" laboratories for PCR testing. Chinese doctors spent months helping set up prevention measures in the country.
United Nations, Sep 10 : The top UN envoy for Afghanistan has called for a modus vivendi for money to flow into the country and for efforts to address the dire humanitarian situation.

Assets and donor funds worth billions of dollars have been frozen by members of the international community. The understandable purpose is to deny these funds to the de facto Taliban administration, Xinhua news agency reported.

The inevitable effect, however, will be a severe economic downturn that could throw many more millions into poverty and hunger, may generate a massive wave of refugees from Afghanistan, and indeed set Afghanistan back for generations, said Deborah Lyons, the UN secretary-general's special representative for Afghanistan.

"As the Afghan currency plummeted, prices of fuel and food have skyrocketed. Private banks no longer have cash to distribute, meaning even Afghans with assets cannot access them. Salaries cannot be paid," she told the Security Council in a briefing on Thursday.

"Afghanistan, heavily import-dependent, will be unable to finance its imports of food and medicine, as well as fuel, electricity, and other essential items," Lyons asserted.

"A modus vivendi must be found -- and quickly -- that allows money to flow to Afghanistan to prevent a total breakdown of the economy and social order," she said.

Safeguards must be created to ensure that this money is spent where it needs to be spent, and not misused by the de facto authorities. The economy must be allowed to breathe for a few more months, giving the Taliban a chance to demonstrate flexibility and a genuine will to do things differently this time, notably from a human rights, gender, and counter-terrorism perspective, she said.

Lyons said the international community must focus on the pre-existing humanitarian crisis.

Addressing this crisis cannot wait for political decisions regarding the removal of sanctions against Taliban leaders as millions of ordinary Afghans are in desperate need of help, she added.

"This means that needed humanitarian aid must be provided through the United Nations or non-governmental organisations (NGOs). There are in addition countries that have their own sanctions that apply to certain members or groups that are now part of the de facto authority. Relevant mechanisms must be found quickly to allow for UN agencies and NGOs to provide the necessary humanitarian relief," she noted.

"In the current environment, the UN role must be clear and build on our humanitarian imperative. There is an immediate and pressing need to deliver, on a huge scale, essential humanitarian aid in areas such as health, food security, non-food items, and sanitation," said Lyons.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
From Pen 2 Pen...: an encouraging example of how one can turn a life in the right direction through faith. From Pen 2 Pen... is the creation of published author Abdul-Hakim Muhammad MSW, a social worker who specializes in rehabilitation, prison reform, recovering alcoholics, and drug abusers. He has an associate degree in behavioral health and human services from the Community College of Philadelphia, a bachelors degree in sociology from the University of Pennsylvania, and a masters degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania.

Muhammad shares, From Pen 2 Pen examines the life of an individual who spent time in the Prison Industrial Complex. The story begins by analyzing society in regard to the constitution and how men and women are treated based on the color of their skin. As a result of the rules that govern society, the author describes his stay in a maximum security prison. This episode led the author down a path that was unforeseen but became a reality, which affects how he looks at and examines certain people based on skin color.

The author utilizes the ink/pen to explain how he made the transition from Pen life to learning about the components that make up our criminal justice system. In his quest for understanding, he became a student that examined many of the factors that lead to incarceration. The tools of education are outlined throughout the story. It helps the reader understand what it takes to make that transition from criminal activity to fundamental awareness.

The author managed to attend a community college, a four-year college and, later, graduate school. While engaging in these institutions of education, the author developed a passion for learning the best form of rehabilitation. The path this book follows can be used in any society in any part of the world. Moreover, the author continues to explain how none of his achievements were successfully completed without the help, instructions, and guidance from his Creator and Sustainer: Allah, Lord of All the Worlds.

The author looks at this component as a decisive factor he used in all of his affairs. He closes with this statement: All praise is due to Allah, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon Muhammad, his family, his companions. May Allah be pleased with them all and all of those who follow him until the last day. Ameen.

Published by Christian Faith Publishing, Abdul-Hakim Muhammad MSWs new book is an engaging story of redemption and salvation.

Muhammad shares a deeply personal story in hopes of inspiring and encouraging others who have experienced similar circumstances or are otherwise lost from the light of faith.

View a synopsis of From Pen 2 Pen... on YouTube.

Consumers can purchase From Pen 2 Pen... at traditional brick & mortar bookstores, or online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes store, or Barnes and Noble.

For additional information or inquiries about From Pen 2 Pen..., contact the Christian Faith Publishing media department at 866-554-0919.
Our employee voice is one of the most important things for us here. - Javon Barnwell, Vice President, Human Resources

Acutis Diagnostics, a specialized medical laboratory headquartered in New York, has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2021 honor by the Long Island Press and Dans Papers. The Top Workplaces list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. The anonymous survey uniquely measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization, including alignment, execution, connection, and more.

Being awarded a Top Workplaces 2021 honor by The Long Island Top Workplaces program shows the leaders at Acutis believe they are a better company for their clients and their collaborators when their team members feel engaged and when their professional opinions matter. They know that with the talent and passion their colleagues bring to Acutis each day, they will make many important contributions towards the future of healthcare. Earning the Top Workplaces recognition is about organizational health, and for Acutis, this means building a team that is aligned with the organizations Guiding Principles and overall vision, a team that wants to be challenged, a team that knows their voices are heard.

Acutis' team members provided direct information about their experience at Acutis Diagnostics, which resulted in this great acknowledgement. After hearing that Acutis has earned this award for the second time, Vice President of Human Resources, Javon Barnwell said, The important work we do here couldnt be done without the special group of folks were fortunate enough to have at Acutis. And our employee voice is one of the most important things for us here.

Acutis is a company with a commitment to the best science, technology and practices, all set in motion by a team of deeply committed professionals. Acutis serves medical practitioners with highly advanced clinical toxicology and infectious disease testing  investing in research and development which enable medical practitioners to make more informed decisions and achieve better patient outcomes with a focus on value of care.

To learn more about Acutis, visit our website: https://www.acutis.com/ and our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/acutis-diagnostics
Air Oasis is ranked as one of the fastest growing companies in the United States. When launching Air Oasis, we were simply on a mission to develop indoor air purifiers that actually work. This industry segment is too often known for confusing gimmicks and misinformation. We have found success by focusing on excellence, continual improvement, and delivering on our promises.

Air Oasis is an air purifier manufacturer that sells its top-rated products directly to the end user. The company has earned a spot on the esteemed Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in America. This recognition was given after a year of record-breaking growth for the company, accelerated by providing health and safety solutions to improve the indoor air quality of buildings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When launching Air Oasis, we were simply on a mission to develop indoor air purifiers that actually work. This industry segment is too often known for confusing gimmicks and misinformation. We have found success by focusing on excellence, continual improvement, and delivering on our promises. The vision hasnt changed; our journey of discovering innovative ways for our customers to love the air they breathe continues. Everyone should have the ability to monitor and control the quality of air they breathe. - Jon Bennert, Co-founder and President

Air Oasis: Family Owned and Operated

Air Oasis is a multi-generational, family owned and operated company. The company was co-founded by father and son, Dr. Jeff Bennert and Jon Bennert. Launched in 2004, Air Oasis LLC provides high-quality, research-backed, air purifiers delivered directly from their Texas plant.

In a competitive industry of major corporations that are household brand names, we saw an opportunity to design and make better quality, more effective products that would truly help consumers. The positive feedback we have received from parents, doctors, school administrators, government officials, and business leaders tells us we have achieved that goal. For that we are grateful, knowing so many have benefited from Air Oasis products. - Dr Jeff Bennert, Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer

Air Purifier Technology

Air Oasis air purifiers use multi-stage technology for maximum effectiveness. Their keystone offerings are the iAdaptAir and G3 Series.

iAdaptAir air purifiers come in three sizes and use ozone-free, full spectrum air purification. The multi-stage system includes a HEPA filter, carbon filter, AHPCO, Bi-Polar, and UV ionization technologies. Air Oasis is the only air purifying manufacturer that effectively uses this exact combination of air purification techniques, in one app-enabled unit, to deactivate viruses and bacteria, reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs), fight against mold, and reduce allergens and smoke.

The G3 Series UV Ionic air purifier uses UV ionization technology, which was popularized as evidence emerged that UV light can deactivate viruses like COVID-19. This powerful air purifier also comes in three sizes and uses advanced ionization techniques to effectively reduce 99% of allergens, mold, odors, germs, and other contaminants.

Values-Based and Forward Thinking

Air Oasis is distinct in the industry as being a primarily values-based brand. They are regularly recognized for philanthropic and charitable efforts, including the support of inner-city schools and underserved, at-risk populations.

This value orientation has propelled them to the front of the field, where they consistently lead the way in innovative approaches and new technology for air purifiers. Their rigorously tested models and technological development maintain their status as an elite provider of high-end air purifiers for homes, offices, physician offices, schools, and more.

See more about Air Oasis residential and commercial air purifiers on their website.

Press Contact: if you have inquiries about this news or to get in touch with Air Oasis, contact feedback@airoasis.com or (806) 373-7788.

Disclosure, if needed.
Digital biomarkers can truly revolutionize our approach to this complex disease by giving us accessible, easy to use, inexpensive and accurate ways to diagnose patients earlier than ever before, even before symptoms appear.

Altoida, Inc., the worlds leading Precision Neurology company, announced new financing from the Alzheimers Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) Diagnostics Accelerator, an initiative to advance bold ideas for easier, more accurate, and earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The financing will support novel research and development of Altoidas digital medical device for predictive diagnosis in the earliest possible phases of Alzheimers, like the preclinical phase.

From just a 10 minute set of activities completed on a smartphone or tablet, Altoidas device will use artificial intelligence to help predict if an individual aged 55+ with Mild Cognitive Impairment will or will not convert to Alzheimers within 12 months. This industry-first predictive diagnostic won Altoida Breakthrough Device Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2021.

Now, Altoida is working to pioneer another industry-first by testing their device for predictive diagnosis in the preclinical phase of Alzheimers, which could enable diagnosis many years before onset and enable intervention before irreversible disease effects may occur.

We are thrilled to partner with the Alzheimers Drug Discovery Foundation in our shared fight to treat and defeat Alzheimers disease, said Travis Bond, CEO of Altoida. We know that developing and deploying effective treatment for Alzheimers, and other neurological diseases, will begin with early and accurate diagnosis. The Diagnostics Accelerators support will be integral as Altoida works to create better patient outcomes through Precision Neurology."

Through Precision Neurology, we are pushing the boundaries of early diagnosis, said Ioannis Tarnanas, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Altoida. Built on a foundation of more than twenty years of research, we are working to redefine neurological disease diagnosis with AI-backed prediction.

Altoidas device is a Computerized Cognitive Assessment Aid that is classified as Class II, 510(k) exempt.

Created in 2018, the Diagnostics Accelerator is a partnership of funders with funding commitments totaling nearly $50 million over three years from ADDF Co-Founder Leonard A. Lauder, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, MacKenzie Scott, the Dolby family, the Charles and Helen Schwab Foundation, and The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, among others, to develop novel biomarkers for the early detection of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

The ADDF is delighted to support the researchers at Altoida as they leverage rapidly evolving technology in innovative ways to improve early diagnosis of Alzheimers disease, said Dr. Howard Fillit, Founding Executive Director and Chief Science Officer of the Alzheimers Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF). Digital biomarkers can truly revolutionize our approach to this complex disease by giving us accessible, easy to use, inexpensive and accurate ways to diagnose patients earlier than ever before, even before symptoms appear.

The ADDF awarded $15 million in new investments in the second quarter of 2021, reaching into nearly every corner of Alzheimers research, including novel drug compounds, disease pathologies, and digital biomarker innovations, like Altoida.

About Altoida, Inc.

Altoida, Inc is creating a new gold standard in brain health with Precision Neurology. Our innovative approach combines novel digital biomarkers (dBM) with immersive augmented reality (AR) and powerful artificial intelligence (AI). The result is our validated device and platform built on more than twenty years of cutting-edge scientific research. Our products are backed by peer-reviewed publications and multinational clinical trials, and are built by our expert team of scientists, clinicians and engineers. Altoida, Inc. is funded by M-Ventures, Eisai Innovation, Hikma Ventures, GreySky Venture Partners, FYRFLY, Alpana Ventures and VI Partners. For more on Altoida, please visit http://www.altoida.com and connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation

Founded in 1998 by Leonard A. and Ronald S. Lauder, the Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation is dedicated to rapidly accelerating the discovery of drugs to prevent, treat and cure Alzheimer's disease. The ADDF is the only public charity solely focused on funding the development of drugs for Alzheimer's, employing a venture philanthropy model to support research in academia and the biotech industry. Through the generosity of its donors, the ADDF has awarded more than $168 million to fund over 650 Alzheimer's drug discovery and biomarker programs and clinical trials in 19 countries. To learn more, please visit: http://www.alzdiscovery.org/.
GreenBlue Urban Ltd pioneered the worlds first soil cell for urban tree planting and launched it to market in 2001. Its popularity grew at an unprecedented pace as customers lauded a solution to solve the problem caused by tree roots damaging the urban hardscape, and simultaneously provide uncompacted soil volumes for roots to grow into. From there, GreenBlue led the way with additional soil cell designs, ultimately combining our firms extensive knowledge and experience to design and produce the renowned RootSpace system.

After the launch of GreenBlue Urbans soil cell, a competitor (DeepRoot Green Infrastructure, LLC) entered the market and started using the concept of a plastic structure to protect the soil for tree planting and growth. DeepRoot patented the concept and have since filed a patent infringement lawsuit against GreenBlue Urban.

On May 28, 2021 a trial Judge in Canada ordered that GreenBlue Urban not supply the current configuration of RootSpace in Canada until the expiry of DeepRoots patents. GreenBlue Urban disagrees with the merit of the Canadian court and have appealed the ruling. The Appeal File Number is A-181-21 (T-954-18) filed with the Federal Court of Canada on June 28, 2021.

To comply with the Canadian courts injunction in the meantime, GreenBlue has introduced the RootSpace AirForm package. The unique AirForm Panel slightly reduces the available soil volume, and thus allows RootSpace to be sold in Canada following the courts decision. The original RootSpace continues to be sold in all other countries outside Canada.

As well as RootSpace being available as normal in every country but Canada, all GreenBlue Urbans other urban tree planting products and site furnishings continue to be available in Canada and worldwide. GreenBlue will continue to introduce innovative new products and solutions that foster optimal soil conditions for urban tree root growth and sustainability.
Downtown San Diego The mental health care needs of kids, teens, and families in San Diego has long exceeded available resources. We plan to help meet this need and ease the burdens of local families. Past News Releases RSS

Bay Area Clinical Associates (BACA), a leading provider of mental health services to children, youth and families across California, has officially opened their first clinic in San Diego. To accommodate rapid growth and to bring evidence-based mental health services to youth, this expansion positions BACA as the leader in mental healthcare for youth on the West Coast.

Our San Diego clinic is now accepting requests for new patients, said Thomas Tarshis MD, MPH, Executive Director and Founder of BACA. San Diego is an amazing city with a vibrant community and we are thrilled to call San Diego home to our first Southern California location. We have recruited some of the best mental health clinicians from all over the country to launch our newest site!

BACA has tapped Tyler Morrison, MD, MAS to lead the expansion to Southern California. Morrison trained in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at University of California San Diego, and in Adult Psychiatry at University of California San Francisco. He previously held positions at the National Cancer Institute of the NIH, the San Diego VA Medical Center, and San Francisco General Hospital.

Dr. Morrison stated, "The mental health care needs of kids, teens, and families in San Diego has long exceeded available resources, causing months-long waitlists. This was true even before the pandemic, and is particularly true now. We plan to help meet this need and ease the burdens of local families."

BACA offers highly integrated care with a multidisciplinary treatment team of psychiatrists and psychotherapists. For youth & adolescents under age 26 that struggle with depression and anxiety, they have developed a series of specialized Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) and outpatient service programs.

BACAs new San Diego clinic is located at 2837 Presidio Drive, San Diego 92110 and can be reached by phone at 619-241-2781.

For more information or to get in contact with a Bay Area Clinical Associates representative in your region, contact info@baca.org.

About Bay Area Clinical Associates

Since 2007, BACAs clinicians have provided innovative mental health services to youth and families from across the San Francisco Bay Area. We believe that all youth, regardless of socio-economic status, should have access to gold-standard mental health interventions. As a social justice agency working on behalf of children and families, we strive to cure mental illness in our patients, help them develop healthy habits, and realize their full potential. We currently have offices in San Jose, Berkeley, Menlo Park and San Diego. We are opening additional offices throughout California. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of our services are currently operated via telehealth.
Education about Bitcoin is at the core of what our company does. We want people to own their future and that starts with understanding money and countering false narratives with information and inspiration.

Swan Bitcoin, a company making Bitcoin investing fast and easy, has launched a campaign highlighting the human side of Bitcoin by meeting Bitcoiners in every country. The campaign, entitled Bitcoin is for Everyone, illustrates Bitcoins global impact through a series of tweets and videos sharing positive stories from diverse Bitcoin voices around the world. The campaign underscores Swan Bitcoins commitment to education and advocacy.

Education about Bitcoin is at the core of what our company does. We want people to own their future and that starts with understanding money and countering false narratives with information and inspiration, said Cory Klippsten, CEO at Swan Bitcoin.

The company, which launched in 2019, guides individuals, corporations and institutions toward building generational wealth with Bitcoin. From giving away free copies of highly-regarded Bitcoin books to its popular interview show, Swan Signal Live, hosted by Brady Swenson, Swan makes education a top priority.

As Swan has grown its business beyond the borders of the U.S., it has sought to broaden the scope of its education efforts. The company recently launched Bitcoin en Espanol, its first Spanish language show, and One Love Bitcoin, showcasing the efforts of Bitcoiners from all over the world.

Bitcoin en Espanol

Hosted by Camila Campton and Javier Bastardo, the show focuses on educating the Spanish speaking community about Bitcoin. From discussing Bitcoin news to short interviews, each episode helps listeners learn more about Bitcoin. You can watch Bitcoin en Espanol at YouTube.com/SwanSignal.

One Love Bitcoin

Hosted by Dread, a Jamaican Bitcoiner, the show highlights the efforts of Bitcoiners from all over the world as they work to bring to their communities a more free and open financial system built on Bitcoin. He plans to interview Bitcoiners from every country on Earth. For the first season of the show, Dread interviews Roman Martinez of Bitcoin Beach in El Salvador, Kal Kassa from Ethiopia, Fode Diop from Senegal, OKIN from Namibia, Juan Satoshi from Panama, Paleobit from Argentina, Kameshwar Shukla and Rajwinder Singh from India, and Alex Gladstein from the Human Rights Foundation. You can watch One Love Bitcoin at YouTube.com/SwanSignal.

One misperception is that Bitcoin is just for tech bros playing with magic internet money or an investment for the super rich and thats simply not the case, said Klippsten. With Bitcoin Is For Everyone we want to show the real faces of Bitcoin, tell their stories, and celebrate this movement happening around the world.

Within 24 hours of the campaign launch, Bitcoiners from up to 40 countries worldwide have shown their support for the movement. Australia, Portugal, Qatar, Turkey, Nepal, Japan, El Salvador, Algeria and Ethiopia are a small sample of the countries represented on the interactive campaign map.

To learn more about Bitcoin Is For Everyone visit swanbitcoin.com/BitcoinIsForEveryone.

ABOUT SWAN BITCOIN

Swan Bitcoin is the best way to accumulate Bitcoin with automatic recurring and instant buys. Swan is dedicated to producing high quality Bitcoin education and takes pride in excellent, accessible customer service. Swans Private Client Services division is a concierge service that helps high net worth individuals and entities build generational wealth. For more information, visit swanbitcoin.com.
Canon City Area for Reinvestment Expansion joins the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System Registered vendors can access bids, related documents, addendum and award information.

The Canon City Area for Reinvestment Expansion (C-CARE) has officially joined the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System, one of bidnet directs regional e-procurement solutions, providing vendors throughout Colorado easy online access its upcoming solicitations. C-CARE invites all vendors to register online at http://www.bidnetdirect.com/colorado.

The regional purchasing group connects local governments with vendors looking to do business with public agencies. On the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System, vendors seeking business with nearly 325 participating agencies can register online to gain access to a single point of entry for opportunities throughout Colorado. By posting upcoming bids and RFPs on the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System, C-CARE ensures that an entire community of vendors can view their solicitation, download documents, and receive notification of addenda. The vendors self-register and ensure their contact information is up to date.

Because we arent the only agency posting and distributing bids, the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System provides C-CARE with more vendor competition, which we hope will help cut costs, said Rick Harrmann, Economic Development Manager for C-CARE and the City of Canon City when asked why their organization decided to join the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System. We also like that it can help our current vendors expand their business opportunities.

C-CARE invites all local vendors to visit http://www.bidnetdirect.com/colorado and register to receive access to its upcoming solicitations as well as the upcoming bids and RFPs from 319 other public agencies participating on the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System. Registered vendors have the option to upgrade their service to receive customized bid alerts, notification of term contract expiration, and notification of a real-time addendum.

About the Canon City Area for Reinvestment Expansion:

The Canon City Area for Reinvestment Expansion board consists of up to thirteen members. Of these members, at least one member must be appointed by the county commissioners, one member must be a board member of a special district levying a mill levy within the C-CARE area.

About bidnet direct:

bidnet direct, powered by mdf commerce, is a sourcing solution of regional purchasing groups available at no cost to local government agencies throughout the country. bidnet direct runs regional purchasing groups, including the Rocky Mountain E-Purchasing System, across all 50 states that are used by over 1,600 local governments. To learn more and have your government agency gain better transparency and efficiency in purchasing, please visit https://www.bidnetdirect.com/buyers
The acquisition of PrizeLogic represents an incredible opportunity to invest in proprietary technology that will allow us to offer a wider array of services, further deepen our domain expertise and continue to enhance the value proposition of our offering for our clients, said Caporaso.

Clarus Commerce, a leading innovator and pioneer in building, managing and optimizing customizable premium loyalty programs for brands and retailers, today announced its acquisition of PrizeLogic, a leader in digital engagement. The acquisition brings together significant core competencies and proprietary technology to complement both companies current offerings. Together, they will leverage comprehensive loyalty, rebate and promotion solutions to create a leading suite of technology and expertise. This will help brands drive engagement and influence behavior across the entire customer journey in any consumer spending category.

Clarus Commerces recent data study revealed 68% of consumers believe their loyalty is more difficult to maintain than ever before, suggesting theres never been a more critical time for brands to deliver a unique, consistent experience across every touchpoint throughout the buying process. With PrizeLogics diverse set of loyalty and promotion capabilities paired with Clarus Commerces full suite of services and industry expertise, both companies will provide the comprehensive end-to-end loyalty solution for clients to effectively meet customer needs and increase brand engagement.

The acquisition of PrizeLogic represents an incredible opportunity to invest in proprietary technology that will allow us to offer a wider array of services, further deepen our domain expertise and continue to enhance the value proposition of our offering for our clients, said Tom Caporaso, CEO of Clarus Commerce. We are excited to welcome and partner with a highly experienced team with a proven track record of delivering innovative, award-winning solutions to some of the most recognizable brands in the world, and we look forward to collaborating with them as we embark on our next stage of growth.

Through its Engage platform, PrizeLogic combines industry leading insights with turnkey data activation to power incentive programs for Fortune 500 brands such as Molson Coors, PepsiCo, Samsung, T-Mobile, Lowes and Capital One. By bringing PrizeLogic under the Clarus Commerce umbrella, brands will be offered several enhanced benefits:



Comprehensive End-to-End Loyalty Solutions: PrizeLogics diverse set of loyalty solutions (points, punchcard, multi-action dashboards and rewards) significantly augments Claruss industry-leading loyalty capabilities.

Robust First-Party Data: The Engage Customer Data Platform (CDP) will house rich first-party insights on engagement and purchases from millions of consumers.

Industry-Leading Credentials: Clarus PCI Certified Payment Services and PrizeLogic - Engage Platforms security credentials including SOC 1 Type I, ISO/IEC 27001:2013 and ISO/IEC 27701 combine to offer the highest level of commitment to data security and privacy compliance.

Consumer Engagement Capabilities: PrizeLogics full suite of capabilities including sweepstakes, contests, fire drills and social kickbacks adds additional engagement capabilities to Claruss loyalty solutions.

Enhanced Promotions and Rebate Capabilities: Diverse set of promotions, rebate and gift with purchase solutions expands consumer reach, insight, payment and reward capabilities.

We are thrilled to announce our acquisition by Clarus, which brings together two highly experienced and respected loyalty and consumer engagement organizations, said Ryan LaMirand, CEO of PrizeLogic. Our complementary technology, capabilities and customer-centric culture will create significant opportunities that should position us to continue to drive innovative solutions that further support the evolving demands of our clients.

Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. BrightTower acted as exclusive financial advisor to PrizeLogic and their lead investor Pamlico Capital.

To learn more about how Clarus Commerce and PrizeLogic are delivering end-to-end loyalty solutions for todays leading brands and agencies, please visit https://www.claruscommerce.com/ or https://prizelogic.com/

About Clarus Commerce

Clarus Commerce  where customer loyalty meets subscription revenue  is the only company solely focused on building, managing and optimizing customizable premium loyalty programs for brands and retailers. The company provides the full suite of technology and services needed for a successful loyalty program, which includes the technology platform, client services, strategy, creative, marketing, analytics, IT and operations. Clarus Commerce was founded in 2001 and is headquartered in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. For more information, please visit http://www.claruscommerce.com.

About PrizeLogic

Founded in 2008, PrizeLogic is the largest independent digital engagement company and a trusted partner to both Fortune 500 brands and leading agencies. The companys solutions combine incentives, experience, and insight to influence behavior more effectively across the customer journey. The PrizeLogic Engage Platform powers loyalty, promotions, and rebate programs for brands such as Molson Coors, PepsiCo, Samsung, T-Mobile, Lowes, and Capital One. For more information, please visit https://prizelogic.com


Cambridge University Press and Assessment Adaptive learning technology has a huge part to play, and when you combine that technology with world-leading educational content from Cambridge, the possibilities to support learners are really exciting..."

Cambridge University Press & Assessment has acquired CogBooks, the pioneering online learning technology company and leader in adaptive courseware, as it looks to help shape the future of education in an increasingly digital, post-COVID world.

The move will put Cambridge at the forefront of adaptive learning by bringing its renowned teaching and learning content and global reach together with CogBooks expertise in the field, its established platform and courseware.

The advanced adaptive capabilities of CogBooks technology tailors the delivery of content to each learner based on their engagement with the course. As they complete assignments and assessments and indicate their level of confidence in a topic, CogBooks adapts and responds accordingly, recommending the course material needed to optimize learning at that precise moment. This highly personalised approach combines adaptive instruction with learner agency to substantially improve learner engagement and achievement.

Rod Smith, Managing Director of Education Publishing at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, said: The global trend towards more online learning has been dramatically accelerated by the pandemic. We need to help education institutions deliver high-quality learning flexibly, both in person and remotely, in ways that not only retain but enhance its effectiveness."

Adaptive learning technology has a huge part to play, and when you combine that technology with world-leading educational content from Cambridge, the possibilities to support learners are really exciting, aligning perfectly with our mission to unlock peoples potential with the best learning and research solutions.

Chris Bennett, Global Sales Director for Academic Publishing said: This acquisition further strengthens our increased offering to undergraduates and supports our moves into online courses and into new areas of the curriculum.

In acquiring CogBooks, Cambridge University Press & Assessment will continue to advance CogBooks' existing partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), where in addition to a number of other general education courses, the company partnered to build Biospine, the worlds first adaptive-learning biology degree program, funded in part by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Next Generation Courseware Challenge.

Cambridge University Press & Assessment plans to build on the relationship with ASU following the acquisition through additional content and courses, alongside developing new partnerships and opportunities. CogBooks other partners and customers will also benefit from its acquisition by Cambridge, through an expansion of product offerings and partnership opportunities in the coming months.

Chris Bennett added: The involvement of both the Gates Foundation and ASU is testimony to the strength and reputation of CogBooks team and its tried and tested technology. We believe they are a natural fit for Cambridge and will allow us to deliver our world-beating content in powerful new ways, providing an end-to-end higher education experience, from leaving school through to post-graduate study and research.

Jim Thompson, CEO of CogBooks, said: We founded CogBooks with a vision of applying rigorous research and cognitive science to the development of learning technology in order to improve equity in education. Since then, weve experienced a remarkable surge in demand for our adaptive learning technology. Im immensely proud of our employees in their ability to execute on our vision with cutting edge adaptive courseware design, and am grateful to our investors who have supported us on this journey."

Were honored to become a part of Cambridge University Press & Assessment, one of educations greatest global companies. I look forward to combining our innovative learning technology with their award-winning academic content.

##

About Cambridge University Press & Assessment:

Cambridge University Press & Assessment unlocks the potential of millions of people worldwide. It provides world-leading academic research, learning and assessment globally, backed by the first-class teaching and research departments of the University of Cambridge. Find out more at cambridge.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter or YouTube.

About CogBooks:

CogBooks is a learning technology company that has been partnering with educational institutions, associations and companies to deliver quality, innovative, personalized and adaptive learning curricula since 2005. More than 200,000 learners worldwide have benefited from the use of CogBooks technology or courseware products. CogBooks mission is to expand access to education and improve course and learner outcomes at an affordable cost. The company delivers a transformative positive impact on teaching and learning outcomes by applying science-based methods to education, particularly online or hybrid learning modalities. CogBooks has been recognized for its innovative approach by many organizations, including receiving a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to develop adaptive courseware for colleges as part of the Next Generation Courseware Challenge.

Contact:

John Clare, PR & Research Communications Manager, Cambridge University Press & Assessment

jclare@cambridge.org / press@cambridge.org

Heather Shelstad, Chief Marketing Officer, CogBooks

heather@cogbooks.com / hello@cogbooks.com
Garrett Smith  I first started to work with Jay and his Green Team a couple years ago as they cleaned both sides of the bridge every Saturday morning. It's been one of the best things and most uplifting things I do during my weekends. Its so great to get with a group of people who care about whe

Jay Magner, a hands-on activist in the Tampa Bay area when it comes to the environment, is encouraging residents to join him Saturday, Sept. 18, at 1 p.m. for World Cleanup Day.

Jays Green Team will meet at Bayshore Beach, NW side of the Davis Island Bridge, across from 345 Bayshore condominium. For a map, visit https://goo.gl/maps/2d7hnmGKZgsx1cFa8.

The international event comes on the heels of a statewide survey released by University of South Florida researchers revealing that 64 percent of Floridians say more action is needed to protect the environment from the effects of population growth and development.

The survey, which sampled 600 Floridians, took place July 15-25.

Magner, a businessman, is no newcomer when it comes to the environment. Hes a hands-on activist whose goal is to create a greater awareness about environmental issues facing Tampa Bay.

Since March of 2015, Magner and his rag-tag team of friendswho clean up under the name Jays Green Teamcommit a couple of hours on Saturdays to pick up litter.

We pick up maybe five or six plastic full of trash out of the water here every single week, Magner said.

Items the team collects include: cigarettes, medical gloves, beverage cans, foam cups, masks, candy wrappers, syringes, bottle caps, grocery bags, wristbands, fishing line, and more.

A lot of it washes into the mangrove, and we take it out of there, Magner said.

The team alternates between two locations: Bayshore Beach and the Mangroves across from the Peter O. Knight Airport near the end of Davis Island. Magner said he first noticed the debris years ago as he bicycled along Davis Islands and Bayshore.

Magner is encouraging Tampa residents to join the Green Team on Saturday, Sept. 18, to participate in World Cleanup Day. For details about the group, visit https://sites.google.com/view/jaysgreenteam.

Heres what members of Jays Green Team have to say about their ongoing efforts:

Katie Cassandra  It amazed me how much trash is thrown into the Tampa Bay. A part of me hoped that if we cleaned it up enough times that one day we would show up and there wouldnt be any trash to clean and our mission would be accomplished. Unfortunately that is not the case. In order to be successful we need to educate the community and have their help in keeping Tampa clean.

Dustin Krein  By simply being a member of this initiative and giving an hour of my time per week, I am more motivated to cut down on my own use of unnecessary products that harm our community and planet. I hope you will consider joining us.

Garrett Smith  I first started to work with Jay and his Green Team a couple years ago as they cleaned both sides of the bridge every Saturday morning. It's been one of the best things and most uplifting things I do during my weekends. Its so great to get with a group of people who care about where they live and who want to put in the effort to keep Bayshore and Davis Island beautiful.

World Cleanup Day (http://www.worldcleanupday.org) started in 2008 in the small northern European country of Estonia when about 50,000 people united to clean up the entire country in just five hours.

On that day, a global bottom-up civic movement was born and spread like wildfire around the globe, organizers said. This captured the imaginations of people worldwide, who were inspired to follow suit with the same ambitious one country, one-day formula.

Since then it has grown as a movement, engaging more and more groups of volunteers working together, people at daycare centers, schools, companies, and government officialsthe old, the young, the rich, the poor.

World Cleanup Days key tenets include cooperation, positivity, and fun. Those principles fit right in with the goals of Jays Green Team

ABOUT: World Cleanup Day takes place Saturday, Sept. 18. Jay Magner is one of the local environmental activists who signed up to represent the Tampa Bay area. Jays Green Team will meet 1 p.m. at Bayshore Beach, NW side of the Davis Island Bridge, across from 345 Bayshore condominium. For more information about the Green Team, visit https://sites.google.com/view/jaysgreenteam
Faith Episcopal Church in Cameron Park, California opened its parking lot as a rest station for evacuees in campers. The Diocese of Northern California is experienced at responding to disasters, particularly wildfires, said Katie Mears, Senior Director, US Disaster Program. The staff had prepared in advance so they were able to quickly mobilize to help people affected by this years fires.

Episcopal Relief & Development is supporting the Episcopal Diocese of Northern California as it provides emergency assistance in response to the Caldor, Dixie, McFarland and Monument wildfires that have burned over 1.4 million acres in seven counties and led to widespread evacuations.

Severe drought and record-breaking heat across the state are contributing to the extremely active wildfire season. Nearly one-third of the population of California is affected by the hazardous air quality caused by the fires.

The Caldor Fire ignited on August 14, 2021, and quickly spread through El Dorado County, destroying property and closing roads. Nearly 25,000 people were initially evacuated from their homes. Some evacuation orders have been downgraded in recent days, allowing people to begin to return home, but the fire is not yet fully contained. The Dixie Fire began on July 13, 2021, and is the largest "single start" fire in California history, overshadowed only by the August Complex (multiple points of ignition) of 2020 which totaled 1,032,000 acres. The Dixie Fire has burned over 922,000 acres as of September 8. The Dixie Fire displaced many migrant farmworkers and rural farmers who may not have the resources to support an extended period away from the farms. The McFarland Fire has burned over 128,000 acres and at least 66 structures, including 24 residences, while the Monument Fire has burned over 189,000 acres since both fires ignited at the end of July.

The Diocese of Northern California, a long-term recovery partner of Episcopal Relief & Development, has organized a disaster response program to bring aid to farmworkers, regardless of documentation status, people who had already been experiencing homelessness prior to the wildfires and other evacuees. Due to the size and unpredictability of the fires, many evacuees are relocating entirely. The diocese is providing monetary support to cover food, fuel and other emergency supplies as they travel. Additionally, through its network of churches, the diocese is setting up hygiene stations with wash areas, dumpsters and portable toilets to assist evacuees. Diocesan staff are also coordinating with representatives from FEMA. All relief efforts are being carried out with physical distancing and other COVID-19 protocols in place.

The Diocese of Northern California is experienced at responding to disasters, particularly wildfires, said Katie Mears, Senior Director, US Disaster Program. The staff had prepared in advance so they were able to quickly mobilize to help people affected by this years fires.

Please pray for all the evacuees, firefighters, emergency responders and all who are impacted by the wildfires in California, and consider a donation to Episcopal Relief & Developments US Disaster Fund to support continued response to this disaster.

About Episcopal Relief & Development:

For over 80 years, Episcopal Relief & Development has been working together with supporters and partners for lasting change around the world. Each year the organization facilitates healthier, more fulfilling lives for more than 3 million people struggling with hunger, poverty, disaster and disease. Inspired by Jesus words in Matthew 25, Episcopal Relief & Development leverages the expertise and resources of Anglican and other partners to deliver measurable and sustainable change in three signature program areas: Women, Children and Climate.
EBIN 1 We are committed to supporting nonprofit and community-based organizations in the Greater New York area. The pandemic has affected us all. So rather than sell, collectively as a company, we knew it would be more impactful to donate. - Mr. John Park, President, EBIN NEW YORK

Well-renowned beauty brand EVERY DAY BEAUTY IS NOW (EBIN) NEW YORK pledges to donate one million dollars of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) products to nonprofit and community-based organizations across the Greater New York area. The donation disbursement will span up to 90 days.

The EBIN NEW YORK PPE donation comes due to the high impact of the Delta and other variants, causing a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalization spikes. As a thriving business and manufacturing company, EBIN NEW YORK wants to do its part to help, support, and protect those from this ongoing pandemic. With children and young people heading back to school, new mask mandates and COVID cases trending upwards, EBIN NEW YORK is committed to donating the following items:



100,000 Bottles of Hand Sanitizer

100,000 KN95 Masks

8,000 Face Shields

300,000 Disposable Blue Masks

The first donation is taking place Friday, September 10, 2021 in collaboration with the Korean American Association of Greater New York and 100 Suits, located in Southeast Queens. Together both will collaborate with partners, Congressman Gregory Meeks, Senator Leroy Comrie, Senator James Sanders, Assembly Member Vivan Cook, Assembly Member Alicia Hyndman, Assembly Member Clyde Vanel, Assembly Member Khaleel Anderson, Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers, Councilmember I. Daneek Miller, Councilmember Adrienne Adams, Eric Admas, Life Camp, King of Kings, and Community Organizer Nantasha Williams.

"On behalf of 100 suits and the entire South East Queens we want to thank EBIN NEW YORK for their donation of PPE equipment to help combat the Delta variant which has wreaked havoc in our communities. With these equipment we will continue to educate and uplift our community through this very tough time. We are very appreciative of this donation and the relationship built." - Kevin Livingston, Founder, 100 Suits

We are committed to supporting nonprofit and community-based organizations in the Greater New York area. The pandemic has affected us all. So rather than sell, collectively as a company, we knew it would be more impactful to donate the necessary resources, especially to organizations that could benefit from the donation the most. - Mr. John Park, President, EBIN NEW YORK

To learn more about EBIN NEW YORK visit: https://www.ebinnewyork.com.

ABOUT EBIN NEW YORK

EBIN NEW YORK believes everyday beauty is now. Since its founding in 2014, EBIN NEW YORK has risen to become a leading brand in the beauty industry. They are reinventing the beauty industry to unveil your everyday beauty. At the heart of our brand, EBIN NEW YORK believes everyone should have the creative freedom to express one's beauty, and it should be accessible for all. EBIN NEW YORK is constantly evolving and discovering new beauty innovations to lead the trend and surpass expectations at every turn. EBIN NEW YORK is committed to inspiring and celebrating ones authentic self to find beauty in everyday life.
Exclusive. Exceptional. Experimental: our new Pink Bourbon Cinnamon Coffee earns all these accolades, and more. We invite Columbus coffee aficionados to savor this unique cup and relish the story of how it made its way to Crimson. - Greg Ubert, Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea

A rare coffee micro lot, airlifted from Colombia to Columbus, Ohio, will land Sunday, September 12 at Crimson coffeehouse at 4066 Worth Avenue in Easton Town Centers new fashion district.

Exclusive. Exceptional. Experimental: our new Pink Bourbon Cinnamon Coffee earns all these accolades, and more, said Greg Ubert, founder and president of award-winning Columbus coffee roaster Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea.

We invite Columbus coffee aficionados to savor this unique cup and relish the story of how it made its way to Crimson.

The tale begins at 1,480 meters above sea level, in the mountains of Colombias Quindio Region.

There, Grower Jairo Arcila has transitioned 10 hectares of his Finca Villarazo from avocados to coffee, focusing on the superb Pink Bourbon variety.

A hybrid of Yellow and Red Bourbon, this variety has a high glucose content, resulting in a sweet cup, silky body and luscious mouthfeel. Some farmers report Pink Bourbon resists coffee leaf rust, a fungal disease threatening coffee crops in Central and South America.

By any standard, this is an exceptional cup, said Sustainability Director Brandon Bir, who first discovered Finca Villarazo through Felipe Arcila of Cofinet. Like many Cofinet micro lots, its more suited for a competition than a cafe.

As fourth-generation coffee growers and exporters, the Arcilas of Cofinet specialize in alternative fermentation processes that create exotic coffee varieties and unique profiles.

After visiting Finca Villarazo in October 2018, Bir met with Felipe Arcila in Armenia and Bogota.

We developed a friendship that grew over the span of three years, finally resulting in our purchase of this experimental micro lot, he said.

To create the unique coffee, Finca Villarazo workers exposed a micro lot of their best cherries to dry anaerobic fermentation of 72 hours.

During fermentation, they added tartaric acid and cinnamon to enhance the flavor. In the last step, they dried the cherries on raised beds to 10.5 percent moisture content.

The result is a sweet cup with subtle notes of cinnamon, Bir said. Rare cups and relationships like these are why we created Crimson.

Everything starts at origin, where the time we spend with small-plot farmers and communities yields remarkable coffees.

For over a decade, Crimson Cups coffee team has been trekking into remote mountains to forge relationships with small coffee farmers. In a typical year, they travel over 100,000 miles to source incredible coffee, tea and other ingredients.

Ubert said the companys relationships, quality and awards provide a platform to highlight the hard work of coffee farmers.

Few consumers understand how hard it is for farmers to grow, process and market the coffee in their cup. By sharing their stories, we invite Crimson customers to join us in kindling growth and prosperity among farming communities.

Every cup of Crimson coffee you drink contributes to what we call the Ripple Effect: a focus on good that ripples outward through our community to affect the lives of our team, partners and community for years and generations to come.

Pink Bourbon Cinnamon Coffee debuts 8:00 a.m. September 12 at Crimson, 4066 Worth Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43219, in the new fashion district of Easton Town Center.

We welcome all customers to come in and buy a pour-over to enjoy on site, Ubert said. If you love coffee, you wont want to miss this unique experience.

He noted that the coffees $10 cost per cup stems from the risk of experimentation, transportation costs and the many hands that labor to produce this rare cup.

About Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea

Columbus, Ohio, coffee roaster Crimson Cup Coffee & Tea is a 2020 Good Food Award winner, 2019 Golden Bean Champion for Small Franchise/Chain Roaster and Roast magazines 2016 Macro Roaster of the Year. Since 1991, Crimson Cup has roasted sustainably sourced craft coffee for consumers and wholesale coffee customers.

Through its 7 Steps to Success coffee startup program, the company teaches entrepreneurs to open and run independent coffee shops in their local communities. By developing a coffee shop business plan, entrepreneurs gain insight into how much it costs to open a coffee shop.

Crimson Cup also supports life-enriching projects through its Friend2Farmer initiatives, promoting the education, health, sustainability and economic growth of small-plot coffee farmers and their communities.

Crimson Cup coffee is available through over 350 independent coffee houses, grocers, college and universities, restaurants and food service operations across 30 states, Guam and Bangladesh. The company also operates several Crimson Cup Coffee Houses and a new Crimson retail flagship store. To learn more, visit crimsoncup.com, or follow the company on Facebook and Instagram.
Being a five-time member of the Inc 5000 is proof of the quality and outstanding work our team does everyday.

Inc. magazine today revealed that Altaworx is No. 3826 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the nations fastest-growing private companies. Altaworx boasts a growth rate of 84% and the #1 telecommunications company in Alabama. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economys most dynamic segmentits independent small businesses. Intuit, Zappos, Under Armour, Microsoft, Patagonia, and many other well-known names gained their first national exposure as honorees on the Inc. 5000.

"Altaworx is proud of our agents, resellers, and employees' work to make Altaworx the fastest-growing telecommunications company in Alabama in 2021. Being a five-time member of the Inc 5000 is proof of the quality and outstanding work our team does every day," said Rickie Richey, Altaworx CEO

Not only have the companies on the 2021 Inc. 5000 been very competitive within their markets, but this years list also proved especially resilient and flexible given 2020s unprecedented challenges. Among the 5,000, the average median three-year growth rate soared to 543 percent, and median revenue reached $11.1 million. Together, those companies added more than 610,000 jobs over the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region, and other criteria, can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000. The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc., which will be available on newsstands on August 20.

Our team has worked incredibly hard and adapted even during a pandemic. The flexibility and dedication of the Altaworx co-workers gives us a competitive advantage to tackle any challenge, said Forrest Derr, Altaworx President

About Altaworx

Altaworx, located in Fairhope, AL was founded in 2003 by Rickie Richey, with hopes of addressing the emerging demand for Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) business telephone systems. His vision was to build a company that not only provided leading-edge technology, but truly focused on helping customers drive revenue, control expenses, increase their productivity and operate more efficiently. In 2011, Altaworx continued to focus on customer impact through emerging technologies, becoming an internet telephony service provider (ITSP). The company began selling Altaworx branded SIP trunking and Hosted PBX to business customers in the 22 state AT&T footprint. Today, the company operates its cloud-based solutions from three AT&T data centers located in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Atlanta. With a focus on empowering resellers to build equity value in their business, Altaworx continues to grow.

More about Inc. and the Inc. 5000

Methodology

Companies on the 2021 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2017 to 2020. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2017. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independentnot subsidiaries or divisions of other companiesas of December 31, 2020. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2017 is $100,000; the minimum for 2020 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine company rankings were calculated to three decimal places. There was one tie on this years Inc. 5000. Companies on the Inc. 5000 are featured in Inc.s September issue. They represent the top tier of the Inc. 5000, which can be found at http://www.inc.com/inc5000.

About Inc. Media

The worlds most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including web sites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Vision Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit http://www.inc.com.
GreenCourt Legal Technologies LLC has been selected by the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) to provide the next generation of electronic filing (eFiling) and communication capabilities through GreenCourts industry-leading GovLink solution.

DHS was one of the first state executive branch agencies in the nation to accomplish eFiling of child support legal documents through its partnership with the Superior Court Clerks and the Judicial Council of Georgia Administrative Office of the Courts Georgia Judicial Exchange (GAJE) platform. DHS has now partnered with GreenCourt to replace GAJE with GovLink and enhance the overall eFiling experience across the state.

GovLink will provide powerful new capabilities for DCSS and its stakeholders, including automated integration with DCSS child support tracking system ($TARS), collaborative workflow that overcomes the challenges of remote working, role-based editing and approval tools, continuous status updates and comprehensive delivery to and from Georgias superior courts through GreenCourts network (PeachCourt, which has been serving the state since 2014).

We are delighted to partner with DCSS Assistant Deputy Commissioner John Hurst and the rest of his incredible team to optimize and streamline their court filing processes across the state, said Andy Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of GreenCourt Legal Technologies. The GreenCourt team continues to help the State of Georgia modernize its operations across many agencies and this project will enable DCSS to deliver on its vision of building stronger families for a stronger Georgia.

The Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Child Support Services is pleased to partner with GreenCourt, a Georgia-based company, to implement new technology that creates efficiency, greater transparency and enables us to better serve Georgia families, Assistant Deputy Commissioner John Hurst said.

This GovLink solution for Georgia DCSS is expected to go-live before October 2021.

About GreenCourt Legal Technologies and GovLink

GreenCourt Legal Technologies, LLC, headquartered in Carrollton, Georgia, leads digital transformation for state agencies, justice partners, private-sector professionals and the general public. GreenCourt helps these stakeholders move from high-risk situations involving paper-based records, in-person information sharing and manual data entry toward reliable, safe and efficient operations. GreenCourts leadership has been building, implementing and supporting mission critical software and interoperability systems for more than fifteen years in the banking, healthcare and legal industries. For details, visit us on the web at http://www.greencourt.com, or via Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, or call 770-834-FILE.

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About the Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Child Support Services

The mission of the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) is to increase the reliability of child support paid by parents when they live apart from their children by locating parents, establishing paternity, establishing and enforcing fair support orders, increasing health care coverage for children and removing barriers to payment.

For more information, please visit https://childsupport.georgia.gov/ or 1-844-MYGADHS (1-844-694-2347).
IsI Enterprises In the past year we have seen tremendous growth in cyber threats.

As the cost to recover from a ransomware attack has doubled over the last year, rising to $1.85 million per company on average and the advancement of technology has left many companies vulnerable to cybercriminal activity, DoD Security, LLC is responding with staffing increases and technology updates.

In the past year we have seen tremendous growth in cyber threats, said Paul Cella, President and CEO of DoD Security, LLC. The only way to protect intellectual property and security-related information is to have the right people on the front lines, using technology that facilitates secure operating environments, he said.

Effective November 25th, 2020 all DOD Contractors (subs & primes) were required to submit a Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score as required by DFARS clause 252.204-7020. Calculation and submission of the SPRS score is only part of a complex series of regulatory changes that require specialized staff to understand and compile. Creation and customization of CMMC and NIST 800-171a compliant policies and procedures can only be done by highly trained personnel, and we have assembled a team that leads the industry, Cella said.

Among the solutions provided by the DoD Security, LLC team are:



Documentation and confirmation of the network topology and CUI boundary

Assessment of compliance and identification of gaps to all controls for:

NIST 800-171a (110 Controls)

CMMC Level 1 (17 Controls)

CMMC Level 3 (130 Controls)

A detailed Plan of Action & Milestones (POAM) which identifies failed controls and provides a detailed plan of remediation

A full suite of compliance and IT solutions

To facilitate compliance in the current modern cyber environment, technology solutions had to be further developed to accommodate the changing requirements and threats. Our support software stack was engineered to exceed industry best practices. Our primary objective is to ensure our clients have strong protections available at an affordable cost, said Cella.

Industrial Security Integrators has plans to continue to grow their specialized cyber security team, DoD Security, and further expand their technology infrastructure to keep up with rapidly changing cyber threats.

More about Industrial Security Integrators (IsI):

Headquartered in Herndon, VA, Industrial Security Integrators provides cost-effective, comprehensive security solutions for Industry and Government. The company strives to achieve complete customer satisfaction while maintaining an ethical and professional workplace. IsIs team of dedicated security professionals provides the support needed to manage both small and large security programs at a fraction of the cost. For more information about IsI, please visit their website at https://www.dodsecurity.com. For information about Managed Network Services and CMMC compliance, please visit: https://dodsecurity.com/dod-security/.
Cuhaci & Peterson has Las Vegas on its radar, and we look forward to seeing you there. First up, we'll be attending The NGA Show where our Senior Vice President of Design Steven Duffy will be joining our friends Andrew Benzinger, Business Development Manager at AutoStore, and Mike Davidson, Executive Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Buehler's Fresh Foods for a panel discussion.

The trio will discuss eGrocery  Onramping to Automating Grocery Fulfillment.

Session Details

Independents have an array of options when it comes to automating eGrocery fulfillment. In addition to economic considerations, well explore technologies and options available to retailers. Learn implementation best practices, a checklist of options, and a strategy for getting started with automating grocery fulfillment.

The NGA Show runs from September 19-21, 2021 at the Paris Hotel & Casino and our panel discussion takes place Tuesday, September 21 from 1:15 p.m. - 1:40 p.m. in the Ballys Platinum Room.

To schedule a meeting with Steven Duffy, please go to:

https://calendly.com/steven-duffy

Next up is Groceryshop 2021, taking place September 19-22, 2021, at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. Joining Steve from C&P is Greg Simpson, our Chief Executive Officer, Bryon McCarthy, Principal, and Eric Harris, Sr. Project Manager.

We're pleased to help AutoStore develop an eGrocery automation model for their exhibit, representing the store of the future that's here today.

The model and virtual fly-through illustrates the functions of AutoStore fulfillment connected to an operating grocery store.

Learn more by visiting FutureShop.c-p.com and our GroceRE Imagined interactive.

Our team looks forward to seeing you and would love to meet and discuss how we can help transform your grocery experience. Have questions about how we can help? Have an idea you'd like to run by us or just like to say hello? We've made it easy.

Simply visit our calendly.com link below and we'll schedule your meeting:

https://calendly.com/c-p-events

Cuhaci & Peterson will also be tweeting live from both events so be sure to follow us at:

https://twitter.com/cuhaci_peterson

Follow the event hashtags on Twitter:

The NGA Show - #TheNGAShow

Groceryshop - #Groceryshop

See you in Las Vegas!

About Cuhaci & Peterson

Cuhaci & Peterson is a nationally recognized architecture, engineering and planning firm specializing in end-to-end commercial design solutions. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, the firm has representatives throughout the U.S. and is licensed in 50 states. C&Ps mission of transforming ideas into a value is enhanced by a staff of experts who collaborate with clients to translate visions into designs that elevate brands.

About The NGA Show

With more than 40 specialized educational workshops led by retailers for retailers and 400+ companies on our EXPO floor showcasing innovative and game-changing products and solutions, The NGA Show provides countless opportunities to learn from your peers and other industry thought leaders. Bring your whole team to The NGA Show and bring home ideas that will drive profitable growth for your company.

About Groceryshop

Groceryshop brings together leaders from the entire grocery ecosystem, including established and startup CPG brands, supermarkets, c-stores, drug stores, general merchandise stores, discount stores, ecommerce players, warehouse clubs, grocerants, and non-traditional grocery retailers. These organizations join tech companies, real estate operators, investors, media, and analysts for four days of incredible content, facilitated meetings, and fun.
We believe in building M365 solutions based on standard features, and when that is not enough, we use high quality add-ons like KWizCom products.

KWizCom, a leading developer of SharePoint Forms & Workflows, as well as multiple other SharePoint web parts, add-ons and apps for Microsoft 365 (SharePoint Online), is pleased to announce partnership with HumanData.

HumanData is a Swedish consulting company, founded by Mr. Goran Husman in 2001. The company has specialized in SharePoint since its first release 2001, and later extended to Office 365, now Microsoft 365. The HumanData team invests exclusively in working with Microsoft 365, which guarantees the specialist competence they offer their customers. HumanData covers all the skills required to build and develop a company's use of web solutions.

We believe in building M365 solutions based on standard features, and when that is not enough, we use high quality add-ons like KWizCom products, advises Goran Husman, the Founder of HumanData. Most of our customers are large organizations, that demand expert solution architects, such as H&M, Intrum, Recipharm, and Handelsbanken, to mention just a few of them.

HumanData and KWizCom will work closely to deliver Microsoft 365 apps for joint clients.

We are happy to welcome our new Swedish partner HumanData and look forward to working with them and having a continuous fruitful business partnership, adds Nimrod Geva, the Product Group Manager at KWizCom Corporation.

Partnership with KWizCom facilitates reaching new customers with innovative leading-edge products achieving increased sales and profits for both companies. KWizCom Partners benefit from joint activities, a special discount program arrangement with sales incentives, training, licenses to KWizCom add-ons for internal use, technical support, sales and marketing support, and much more. KWizCom has a standing partnership invitation and any interested parties are encouraged to inquire further by visiting the KWizCom website.

About HumanData

HumanData specializes in Microsoft 365 and SharePoint solutions. HumanData covers all the skills required to build and develop a company's use of web solutions. The company became an Microsoft Partner as early as 2001, focusing on solutions focused on collaboration and communication. HumanData is the founder of the annual event SEF - Share and Evolve in MS365 Forum. To find out more information, please visit the companys website at https://humandata.se/ .

About KWizCom Corporation

Since 2005, KWizCom has provided innovative solutions and services to make SharePoint even better for over 10,000 companies worldwide. KWizCom is a leading provider of SharePoint Forms, Mobile, Wiki solutions, and over 70 other add-ons for SharePoint on-premises and apps for Office 365.

KWizCom is a Certified Microsoft Partner is headquartered in Toronto, Canada to find out more about the company visit http://www.kwizcom.com.

Follow KWizCom on Twitter @KWizCom

Join KWizCom on LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/kwizcom

Become a fan of KWizCom on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KWizCom

Contact a KWizCom Account Specialist at +1-905-370-0333/+1-855-KWIZCOM or info@kwizcom.com


Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP For more information about the class action lawsuit against Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today.

The Los Angeles employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action lawsuit against Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., alleging the company violated the California Labor Code. The lawsuit against Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc. is currently pending in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Case No. 21STCV28989. To read a copy of the Complaint, please click here.

According to the lawsuit filed, Matheson Tri-Gas, 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.

Matheson Tri-Gas, Inc., allegedly, required Plaintiff to work off the clock without paying them for all the time they performed work duties. Allegedly, Plaintiff was from time to time interrupted by work assignments, during what was suppose to be off duty meal breaks. Defendant's alleged failure to pay Plaintiff for all time worked in evidenced by Defendant's business records.

For more information about the class action lawsuit against Matheson Tri-Gas, 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***
Our ultimate goal with this workshop is empowering healthcare organizations to capture every legitimate dollar of payment, in compliance with highly complex rules and regulations.

Navigating the Complexities of Radiology Coding and Reimbursement is the topic for a three-day, 12-hour virtual workshop hosted by MedLearn Publishing, in partnership with Panacea, a BESLER Company. The workshop, scheduled for October 7, 14 and 21, 2021, will tackle coding, documentation and compliance challenges for diagnostic and interventional radiology providers.

During eight individual sessions, Panacea experts will offer insights, instruction and tips covering a variety of timely topics specific to radiology, including CPT/HCPCS and ICD-10-CM coding, changes to evaluation and management (E&M) guidelines, navigating the CMS website and Medicare medical necessity. The web-based workshop will include several opportunities for attendees to test their knowledge through actual case examples and to get additional clarification through face-to-face Q&A sessions. Up to 12 AAPC, AHRA and RCCB continuing education credits are available to attendees.

We understand how important radiology revenues are to hospitals, physician practices and other facilities, especially during these financially challenging times, says Angela Kornegor, Executive Director, MedLearn Media. Our ultimate goal with this workshop is empowering healthcare organizations to capture every legitimate dollar of payment, in compliance with highly complex rules and regulations. Based on our 30 years of radiology experience, coupled with the unmatched expertise of our Panacea presenters, attendees of the workshop can feel confident about the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the guidance they receive.

Following is an overview of the workshop schedule and topics:

DAY 1: Thursday, October 7



Session #1: CPT Coding for Nonvascular Interventional Radiology Procedures

Session #2: Vascular Interventional Radiology Coding

DAY 2: Thursday, October 14



Session #1: ICD-10-CM Coding Guidelines and References

Session #2: A Deep Dive into the 2021 E&M Office Visit Guidelines

Session #3: Current Trends in Radiology CPT Coding

DAY 3: Thursday, October 21



Session #1: Diagnostic Radiology

Session #2: Navigating the CMS Website

Session #3: Medical Necessity for Medicare

To learn more about workshop details and online registration, visit https://bit.ly/38DyAJY, or call 800-252-1578.

About MedLearn Publishing

A MedLearn Media brand, MedLearn Publishing is a nationally recognized healthcare publishing and media firm specializing in all aspects of coding, compliance, reimbursement and the revenue cycle. For 30 years, MedLearn Publishing has delivered actionable answers that equip healthcare organizations to confidently meet their revenue and compliance obligations. MedLearn Publishing clients access this information through a variety of resources, including print and digital books, newsletters, coding charts and webcasts.

Media contact: Catherine Wang, Project Administrator

cwang@medlearnmedia.com  800-252-1578 x 3414

CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.
We are thrilled as a national corporation to recognize these crucial and courageous people by celebrating this special day once a year.

Meridian Senior Living, LLC (Meridian) proudly announces that they will be publicly recognizing all first responders including firefighters, emergency medical technicians, law enforcement officers, and any other first responders by designating Friday, September 10, 2021, as their national Honor Our First Responders Day. About 60 Meridian Senior Living communities across 18 states and the District of Columbia will honor these nearly two million dedicated men and women across the nation, who put their lives at risk by protecting and serving their country and their individual communities. These heroic individuals deserve to be acknowledged, especially in the wake of several recent and devastating events across the country.

We are proud of our close working relationship with first responders in each of our communities and have partnered locally with them to create safe senior living environments at all Meridian Senior Living communities, shares Kevin Carlin, Principal and Chief Sales Officer of Meridian Senior Living. We are thrilled as a national corporation to recognize these crucial and courageous people by celebrating this special day once a year. Its also a perfect lead-in to kicking off Assisted Living week, which will be celebrated on September 12th through the 18th.

Each of Meridians communities work closely with local first responder groups to provide a secure setting for their residents. To honor their service, Meridian communities will be hosting their own events to acknowledge these essential individuals for protecting the nations senior population and providing assistance as needed. As part of these celebrations, select Meridian communities will be extending special move-in offers to area seniors in an effort to provide them with a secure, comfortable home in their later years. These special community events will be conducted safely by following CDC guidelines.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Meridian communities remain open and have rooms move-in ready for new residents. Their dedicated staff is committed to the safety and well-being of their residents and are trained and certified to assist in daily support functions such as dressing, bathing, medication management and especially the ability to immediately respond to emergency circumstances. Furthermore, they work tirelessly in keeping their residents engaged with activities and, where allowed by state and local health departments, Meridian communities are implementing visitation, group activities, and communal dining.

To learn more about Meridian Senior Living and how their communities are recognizing these brave men and women for the incredible sacrifices they make daily on everyones behalf, visit the website: meridiansenior.com or Facebook page:@Meridian Senior Living.

About Meridian Senior Living:

Meridian Senior Living, a privately held company based in Bethesda, Maryland, owns and operates seniors housing communities across the country and provides operational consulting to 24 communities in China. With approximately 60 communities in 18 states and more in development, Meridian is one of the largest seniors housing operators in the U.S. The company prides itself on providing the highest quality care, exceptional lifestyle programming and a distinctive dining experience for its residents. For more information on Meridian Senior Living, visit meridiansenior.com.
Behavioral health evaluation is complex, said Mindyra Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer Connor Patros, Ph.D. This is in part because patients with one singular problem area are the exception rather than the rule."

A recent study from digital behavioral healthcare company Mindyra indicates the most popular mental health screening tests often provide insufficient data to yield an accurate understanding of the full spectrum of an individuals clinical difficulties. The study found that participants who reported minimal symptoms on two of the most commonly utilized mental health tests often had problems unassessed by those measures, including trauma, mania, and sleep and eating disorders.

In the study, Mindyra used a community sampling approach of more than 450 adults and had them complete industry standard behavioral health tests, the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, as well as Mindyras proprietary test, the Mindyra-9. The research indicates that while the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 provide a relatively in-depth view into an individuals depression and anxiety concerns, they have shortcomings when it comes to broader mental health evaluations.

The findings are consistent with Mindyras other research showing that 98% of more than 5,700 adults in inpatient psychiatric facilities who scored in the moderate to severe range on the more traditional tests, reported problems other than depression or anxiety on the Mindyra-9.

Behavioral health evaluation is complex, said Mindyra Co-Founder and Chief Clinical Officer Connor Patros, Ph.D. This is in part because patients with one singular problem area are the exception rather than the rule. The past year and a half have brought mental health issues in our society to the forefront like never before. We know you cant effectively treat a patient if you dont have a comprehensive assessment of what they are going through to begin with. Our research indicates a need for a different kind of testing in the mental health world.

The Mindyra-9 asks patients to rate their difficulties on a 1-10 scale for nine basic statements such as I am sad or depressed, and I have problems with sleep and its affecting me negatively. Among a cohort of about 240 participants between the age of 18 and 54, nearly three quarters endorsed absent or mild depression or anxiety based on their PHQ-9 and GAD-7 responses. Those individuals would likely be deemed asymptomatic in many health care settings. Yet at least 50% of those same participants endorsed at least one moderate severity problem other than depression or anxiety when they took the Mindyra-9. Among participants who reported moderate to severe depression on the more traditional screening tests, 95% endorsed at least one other moderate severity problem other than depression on the Mindyra-9 and over 45% reported difficulties associated with mania.

This means that in many cases, individuals may potentially have other underlying mental health issues that are going undetected.

It comes at a time when mental health concerns are on the rise in the U.S. amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults lives with at least one mental illness. The pandemics impact has been especially acute for young adults, with a CDC study from 2020 indicating about three quarters of Americans ages 18-24 reported an adverse mental health condition.

The studies went through a rigorous research review process including review by all members of Mindyras Clinical Advisory Board including Chairman Hank Schwartz, M.D., psychiatrist-in-chief emeritus at The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital and former regional VP for Behavioral Health of Hartford HealthCare; Lloyd Sederer, M.D., former chief medical officer for McClean Hospital, former medical director for the New York State Office of Mental Health and director of Columbia Psychiatry Media; David Tolin, Ph.D., founder and director of the Anxiety Disorders Center and the Center for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at the Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital, adjunct professor Yale University; and Victor Villagra, M.D., founder and president of Health & Technology Vector and chief physician advisor to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

The bottom line is our treatments are only as good as the accuracy of our diagnoses and our understanding of the comorbidities many struggle with, said Dr. Kent Stahl, former vice president of Hartford HealthCare, former CEO and medical director of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group and member of Mindyras Clinical Advisory Board. We believe Mindyra-9 testing provides earlier access to critical clues on how best to care for our patients, allowing us to expand our understanding of a patients mental health. This then allows providers to better treat the complex underlying issues that are affecting so many at this time.

About Mindyra

Mindyra is a digital behavioral health company that provides diagnostic testing, treatment planning and care progress measuring tools to help improve health outcomes.

Care providers use the software to test, diagnose, plan treatment and monitor progress. Employees can self-administer tests to help guide them to care options specific to their difficulties and measure their progress. Employers engage Mindyra to improve employee mental health, reduce overall health care risk and optimize wellbeing program benefits.

Mindyra is the only digital behavioral health care company to have a clinically-validated test that assesses over 50 different diagnostic indications for all ages. Based in Connecticut, the company has experts throughout the northeastern United States.
I thought to myself, I cant be the only woman in the world looking for comfortable, sexy granny panties. And thats how Bloomers was born.

Bloomers Intimates announced today the launch of their lace underwear line thats as comfortable as it is stylish, ending a centuries-long quest for the best pair of panties. Women everywhere no longer need suffer from muffin tops, visible panty lines or the dreaded wedgie, as Bloomers innovative design eliminates VPL while concealing any lumps and bumps.

I searched all over the internet for women's underwear that was both stylish and full coverage, said Shaula Yemini, co-founder and head of product at Bloomers Intimates. And I couldnt find anything. I thought to myself, I cant be the only woman in the world looking for comfortable, sexy granny panties. Being an entrepreneur, when I see a void in the marketplace, I have to do something about it. And thats how Bloomers was born.

Shaula joined forces with her daughter, Noa Arias, to bring Bloomers to life. When my mom first approached me with her idea, I laughed it off, Noa said. But after performing some market research, we realized there was a definite need for full-coverage underwear thats also chic.

Bloomers first style is Her Highness Lace Brief, a high-waist, fullback panty made in the USA from stretch lace. Her Highness comes in three colors  Onyx (black), Rose Quartz (blush) and Pearl (off-white)  and fits sizes small through extra-large. Each order comes in a reusable mesh laundry bag for safe cleaning and safe keeping. View the full collection at http://www.bloomersintimates.com/collections/womens-panties.

About Bloomers Intimates

Bloomers Intimates is a mother-daughter team bridging the generational gap between old-fashioned granny panties and modern womens underwear. Theyre on a mission to make women of all ages look and feel great in their skivvies.

Shaula Yemini, a Bloomers co-founder, is a former tech entrepreneur. After the company she founded was acquired by EMC and she became a grandma, she shifted her focus from software to softwear. Her daughter and Bloomers co-founder, Noa Arias, has held senior marketing roles spanning tech, finance and beauty. She is leveraging her beauty marketing experience to make her grand entrance into the world of booty marketing. Learn more about how Bloomers was created at http://www.bloomersintimates.com/pages/about-us.
Kentucky recipients 2021 awards badge Who an employer chooses as their insurance broker has significantly more impact on the cost and quality of their benefit plan than who they chose as their insurance carrier.

Mployer Advisor, the leading independent platform for employers to research, review and evaluate insurance brokers, is pleased to announce the Kentucky-based recipients of its inaugural Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards for 2021. Mployer Advisors Top Employee Benefits Consultant Award Program evaluates brokers based on industry experience, company size, online ratings and reviews and recognizes esteemed brokers that demonstrate market-leading competencies and a proven track record of success among employers, insurance providers and peers. Our list recognizes consultants who primarily work with mid-to-large sized employers, as well as brokers who work with small businesses.

Who an employer chooses as their insurance broker has significantly more impact on the cost and quality of their benefit plan than who they chose as their insurance carrier, said Brian Freeman of Mployer Advisor. We are proud to honor this group of insurance consultants who have demonstrated a wide range of experience, as well as positive employer feedback on service and quality. The industry has been dependent on referrals and existing relationships instead of data-driven outcomes for too long. With Mployer Advisor, we celebrate this distinguished group of brokers and consultants.

The state of Kentucky is one of the most competitive job markets in the U.S. Southeast, employing nearly 2 million people with one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country. Offering industry-leading, competitive employee benefits is a critical factor in hiring and engaging top talent for employers in Kentucky. Finding and partnering with a highly rated insurance consultant is imperative to retaining talent in any market.

The recipients of the 2021 Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards for the state of Kentucky as follows:



AssuredPartners

McGriff  Louisville

Bennett & Bennett Insurance, Inc.

McGriff  Lexington

Phil Brown Insurance Agency

Cornerstone Insurance Agency, LLC

USI Insurance Services

Houchens

Jenpale, LLC

The above winners are a brief snapshot of Mployer Advisors matrices and proprietary M Score on June 30, 2021. To determine award winners, Mployer Advisor analyzed each brokerage based on historical data, business experience across employer size, industry and products, as well as relevant online ratings and reviews from employers across several platforms.

To view a full list of consultants serving Kentucky employers, visit MployerAdvisor.com.

About Mployer Advisor:

Mployer Advisor is changing the way employers search, evaluate and select insurance advisors. The intuitive platform connects employers and employees to great benefits and insurance plans by providing employers with actionable data to easily evaluate and select the best advisor for a companys specific needs. Most brokerages have a profile on Mployer Advisor, which provides independent ratings of insurance advisors to support employers. Insurance brokers cannot pay to influence their Mployer Advisor rating. Only highly rated brokerages are allowed to advertise on the platform. To learn more about Mployer Advisor, visit https://mployeradvisor.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: Rankings are dynamic, and this report may not reflect the rankings currently listed on Mployer Advisors website. Since Mployer Advisors research is ongoing, interested companies that want to join next years list are encouraged to claim their free profile on Mployer Advisor.

Media Contact:

Jacob Westfall (Public Relations Consultant)

Jacob.Westfall@mployeradvisor.com
South Carolina recipients 2021 awards badge We are proud to honor this group of insurance consultants who have demonstrated a wide range of experience, as well as positive employer feedback on service and quality.

Mployer Advisor, the leading independent platform for employers to research, review and evaluate insurance brokers, is pleased to announce the South Carolina-based recipients of its inaugural Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards for 2021. Mployer Advisors Top Employee Benefits Consultant Award Program evaluates brokers based on industry experience, company size, online ratings and reviews and recognizes esteemed brokers that demonstrate market-leading competencies and a proven track record of success among employers, insurance providers and peers. Our list recognizes consultants who primarily work with mid-to-large sized employers, as well as brokers who work with small businesses.

Who an employer chooses as their insurance broker has significantly more impact on the cost and quality of their benefit plan than who they chose as their insurance carrier, said Brian Freeman of Mployer Advisor. We are proud to honor this group of insurance consultants who have demonstrated a wide range of experience, as well as positive employer feedback on service and quality. The industry has been dependent on referrals and existing relationships instead of data-driven outcomes for too long. With Mployer Advisor, we celebrate this distinguished group of brokers and consultants.

The state of South Carolina is one of the most competitive job markets in the U.S. Southeast, employing nearly 3 million people with a slightly lower unemployment rate than the rest of the country. Offering industry-leading, competitive employee benefits is a critical factor in hiring and engaging top talent for employers in South Carolina. Finding and partnering with a highly rated insurance consultant is imperative to retaining talent in any market.

The recipients of the 2021 Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards for the state of South Carolina are as follows:



American Carolina Insurance

K2 Advisors Group

Brown & Brown of South Carolina

Marsh & McLennan Agency

Forum, An Alera Group Company

NFP

Gallagher Insurance, Risk Management & Consulting

Palmetto Insurance Group

Gibson & Associates

Southeastern Insurance Consultants, LLC

Hilb Group

HUB International

The above winners are a brief snapshot of Mployer Advisors matrices and proprietary M Score on June 30, 2021. To determine award winners, Mployer Advisor analyzed each brokerage based on historical data, business experience across employer size, industry and products, as well as relevant online ratings and reviews from employers across several platforms.

To view a full list of consultants in South Carolina, visit MployerAdvisor.com.

About Mployer Advisor:

Mployer Advisor is changing the way employers search, evaluate and select insurance advisors. The intuitive platform connects employers and employees to great benefits and insurance plans by providing employers with actionable data to easily evaluate and select the best advisor for a companys specific needs. Most brokerages have a profile on Mployer Advisor, which provides independent ratings of insurance advisors to support employers. Insurance brokers cannot pay to influence their Mployer Advisor rating. Only highly rated brokerages are allowed to advertise on the platform. To learn more about Mployer Advisor, visit https://mployeradvisor.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: Rankings are dynamic, and this report may not reflect the rankings currently listed on Mployer Advisors website. Since Mployer Advisors research is ongoing, interested companies that want to join next years list are encouraged to claim their free profile on Mployer Advisor.

Media Contact:

Jacob Westfall (Public Relations Consultant)

Jacob.Westfall@mployeradvisor.com
76% of parents wish they could receive notifications via mobile app when their child(ren) are dropped off at the right location From the minute they leave the bus stop and arrive at school, to the moment theyre back home, parents are looking for better visibility into their child's school bus journey

Zonar, the leading provider of smart fleet solutions, released a new national study as parents send their children back to school this fall. The findings show that three in four parents (75%) want a better way to track their childs journey to and from school on the bus.

In the study conducted online by The Harris Poll of 564 U.S. parents with child(ren) under age 18, one-third of them (33%) say they rely on school bus transportation 100% of the time (all school days, to and from school). With the return to in-person learning, parents, students, drivers and school district administrators may all be understandably nervous about school bus transportation as for many, it will be the first time back since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

From the minute they leave the bus stop and arrive at school, to the moment theyre back home, parents are looking for better visibility into their child's school bus journey, said H. Kevin Mest, senior vice president of passenger services at Zonar. For 20 years, we have focused on the health and safety on school buses as our top priority  we understand the logistical challenges of transporting precious cargo and the concerns parents have with the return to in-person learning. With todays expectations and the ongoing need for accurate information, we also empathize with parents who lean on school transportation to make their lives a little easier.

Zonar commissioned this study to better understand parents sentiment about school bus transportation safety in light of the pandemic and beyond. School bus transportation is a critical link in our society, making the advancements in transportation technology more important than ever to support the safety of student riders and bus drivers.

Parents Want Mobile Apps to Track More Than Just Deliveries

As a primary mode of transportation for 26 million students across the country, its no surprise that parents wish they could better anticipate school bus pick up and drop off times. In fact, three-quarters of parents want both a better way to track their children en route to and from school (75%) and to receive notifications via mobile app when their child is dropped off at the right location (76%). Today, Americans expect to be able to follow grocery or online shopping deliveries in progress, and school bus routes are no different. Over the last decade, districts have deployed mobile applications that provide parents with ridership alerts and visibility into the rider and bus location for greater transparency and peace of mind.

The school bus is expected to be one of the safest places for students  those surveyed agree. Among parents, 72% agree that the school bus is a safe and reliable option for their childs transportation to and/or from school. At Zonar, this includes vehicle health, driver focus and safe driving practices to ensure both driver and students get to and from school safely. In addition, parents and school districts gain assurance that the right students board the right bus and the wrong ones are redirected.

COVID-19 Precautions in Schools Start on the Drive There

Its evident today that schools opening for in-person learning put young and unvaccinated youth in a potential COVID-19 hotspot. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports cases among children are at levels not seen since the 2020-2021 winter surge with children accounting for 15% of all COVID-19 cases reported. When given options of what they want regarding school bus transportation, parents want COVID-19 precautions on the school bus, including:



Investments in sanitation procedures for school buses (46%)

Health screening questionnaires for school bus drivers (41%)

Contact tracing information for students that ride the school bus (38%)

With COVID-19 spreading rapidly among children, parents and community members in close proximity to schools should have some comfort that districts are deploying electronically verified sanitization and cleaning procedures as well as touchless solutions to protect drivers and student riders. By recording the date, time and school ID number of every student rider, districts know who rode which bus and when. In the event a rider or someone close to them tests positive for COVID-19, the appropriate driver and parents are quickly notified regarding potential exposure.

Rolling Data Centers  The School Bus of the Future is Here

As parents of school-aged children are thinking about the school bus transportation their district provides, they also want to be informed of unforeseeable events beyond the school or drivers control. When given options of what is desired for their childs school bus transportation journey, parents want:



Access to real-time school bus information in the event of an emergency (51%)

Timely communication about transportation schedules and drop-off/pick-up details (50%)

Safety in the school bus transportation industry doesnt stop at GPS tracking of buses and students. Protecting riders requires safety checks inside the bus, such as vehicle diagnostics alerts that inform of issues before they become a problem and inspections that flag maintenance needs to keep the vehicle in top health. When given options of what they want regarding school bus transportation health and safety, parents want:



Technology that helps maintain school bus fleets and avoid break downs (43%)

Investments in school bus safety procedures (42%)

A school districts highest priority is student safety. Knowing where students are, ensuring their safety onboard, and understanding what is delaying their arrival home is not an idea of the future. These tools are here today, many deployed across nearly 200,000 school buses nationwide including Zonar MyView, Zonar Verify and Z Pass which improve the safety and security of student transportation for all involved in the journey. Additionally, Zonars patented Electronic Verified Inspection Reporting (EVIR) system and its smart fleet management platform ensure district transportation directors can make timely, informed decisions about the health of their fleets.

About The Survey

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Zonar from August 19-23, 2021, among 564 U.S. parents defined as adults 18+ with child(ren) under age 18. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact http://www.info@zonarsystems.com

About Zonar

Founded in 2001, Zonar has pioneered smart fleet management solutions throughout vocational, pupil, mass transit and commercial trucking industries. Zonar's mission is to enhance the safety, performance, and success of our customers by transforming the delivery of innovative insights for commercial fleets around the world. Zonar achieves this by helping fleets of all sizes maximize the use of their assets with solutions dedicated to improving compliance, efficiency, maintenance, ridership visibility, safety, and tracking. Cloud-based services with open APIs drive Zonar's smart fleet solutions by making it easy for fleet owners and managers to stay connected to their fleets and drivers and operators to dispatch. Headquartered in Seattle and majority-owned by technology company Continental, Zonar also has a Technology Development Center in downtown Seattle, a regional office in Cincinnati, and a distribution center outside of Atlanta. For more information about Zonar, go to http://www.zonarsystems.com
Paysends goal is to continue reducing economic barriers to entry in the payments market by providing immediate access to transfer money to any card holder around the world, connecting customers to their friends and family overseas.

Global end-to-end payments provider, Paysend, launched its United States operations in September 2020 and since then, outbound transfer volume has increased over 140%. To celebrate its first U.S. anniversary, Paysend announced today that it is hosting its first ever WeConnect Sweepstakes where five grand prize winners will receive $1,000 and an additional five runner-ups will receive $500 each to send to their loved ones abroad via Paysends app.

The WeConnect Sweepstakes will begin on September 7th, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. EDT and is open to all legal residents of the U.S. and the District of Columbia who are 18 years or older. To enter the sweepstakes, participants must upload a thirty-second video during the promotional period that explains why they would like to send money to a friend or family member overseas and how the funds would help the recipients situation. The deadline to submit entries is September 30, 2021 at 5 p.m. EDT.

Participants are also encouraged to share their video on Facebook or Instagram for an additional entry to the contest using the hashtag #PaysendConnects. The winner of the WeConnect Sweepstakes will be selected in a random drawing from all eligible entries that were received throughout the promotional period.

As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, it continues to cause healthcare crises, economic consequences and personal tragedy around the globe. As a result, loved ones abroad need financial support from friends and family in the U.S. said Matt Montes, U.S. president of Paysend. Paysend wants to pay it forward on our first anniversary by helping Americans support their families overseas.

Paysends goal is to continue reducing economic barriers to entry in the payments market by providing immediate access to transfer money to any card holder around the world, connecting customers to their friends and family overseas.

To view the full contest rules and enter the WeConnect Sweepstakes, visit the Paysend website. To join the over 4 million Paysend users sending money internationally, create a Paysend account today and download the mobile app via the App Store or Google Play.

About Paysend

Paysend is a next generation integrated global payment ecosystem enabling consumers and businesses to pay, hold and send money online anywhere, anyhow and in any currency. Paysend is UK-based with global reach and was created in April 2017 with the clear mission to change how money is moved around the world.

Paysend currently supports connections between 12 billion cards globally across Mastercard, Visa, China UnionPay and local card schemes and provides over 40 payment methods for online SMEs. Paysend operates in over 48 countries worldwide and has more than 4 million customers and 135,000 businesses to its platform to date. Paysend has a wide network of partners and has recently signed a partnership with Alipay to expand their reach in China as well as launched services in the US, the biggest payments market of the world.

Paysend is Money for the future.
The fundamental health and safety protections the law provides should not be dependent on whether someone receives public assistance.

On September 7, 2021, Kimberly Lowry filed a class action challenging the alleged discrimination faced by public housing tenants in Minneapolis due to their housing conditions. The lawsuit alleges that the City of Minneapolis discriminated on the basis of public assistance status by failing to provide public housing tenants the inspection, licensing, maintenance, and related services that the City provides to tenants in privately-owned rental dwellings. Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Community Housing Resources are also named defendants, with the lawsuit alleging that they breached the terms of their leases with tenants by failing to obtain licenses and inspections and respond to maintenance requests. The lawsuit goes on to allege consumer protection and housing law violations against all three defendants.

According to Ms. Lowrys complaint, she has experienced a multitude of dangerous and substandard conditions within her rental home, including sewage backing up into her basement, dirt and water intrusion and flooding, loose asbestos floor tile, and peeling paint.

Public housing tenants deserve decent, sanitary housing. They deserve housing that complies with the law, said one of Ms. Lowrys attorneys, Anna Prakash of Nichols Kaster, PLLP. The fundamental health and safety protections the law provides should not be dependent on whether someone receives public assistance.

Ms. Lowry is represented by Anna P. Prakash and Nicole J. Schladt of Nichols Kaster, PLLP; John R. Shoemaker and Paul F. Shoemaker of Shoemaker & Shoemaker, PLLC; and Larry McDonough. The case is Lowry v. City of Minneapolis, et. al, Case No. 27-CV-21-10928, and is filed in Minnesotas Fourth Judicial District Court.
I realized I had the background as a postpartum doula to design a carrier that is in keeping with the latest research on infant development and bonding while offering gentle compression needed for moms as they recover from childbirth.

Maternal and infant well-being are at the forefront of Nesting Days, designers of innovative babywearing apparel and a brand that is part of a growing movement to recognize the benefits of skin-to-skin touch.

In support of International Babywearing Week on Sept. 27 through Oct. 3, Nesting Days continues to educate the public about the need for comfort and support for postpartum mothers and newborns as they are welcomed into the world.

Created by a postpartum doula, the Nesting Days lightweight hands-free carrier is a useful tool that helps moms recover from childbirth and C-sections while providing them with the most special skin-to-skin moments with their newborns from day one. The postpartum shaper in the midsection allows moms to heal comfortably while going about with the days activities.

"Wrapping newborns is like a second womb for the fourth trimester, said Nesting Days founder Julie Arvan. I realized I had the background as a postpartum doula to design a carrier that is in keeping with the latest research on infant development and bonding while offering gentle compression needed for moms as they recover from childbirth.

By mimicking a womb, the carrier helps soothe the baby when distressed and increases breastfeeding success. Skin-to-skin time is natures way for newborns to get the nourishment they need. Wearing a carrier boosts oxytocin levels and lowers cortisol or stress. It also promotes healthy attachment and bonding and aids in learning the baby's cues for feeding, sleeping and awake time.

Carriers are available for moms and dads, making caregiving a shared experience for lasting memories and bonding time for both parents. The carriers are available in a variety of prints and blend fashion, function, and freedom effortlessly. The patented wing design makes it easier to put on with no buckles, hard edges or straps.

For more information, visit https://www.nestingdays.com.

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About Nesting Days:

Nesting Days is an innovative, skin-to-skin newborn baby carrier and postpartum body shaper made in San Francisco. Inspired by yoga wear, the Nesting Days carrier is Founder Julie Arvans patented design - a safe, wearable nest tailored to the unique physiology of the newborn baby combined with a body shaper and skirt that can either be worn down or pulled up over the babys bottom for even more support. Although it might look similar to other wraps at first glance, its unique winged design and fabric combination provides much more support than possible from any other wrap type of carrier available - allowing for hands-free baby carrying for mom (or dad) with no buckles, hard edges or complicated wrapping.
Simfoni continues its growth trajectory by attrracting top industry talent. I am honored to join such an innovative team, said Greg Silich, CFO, Simfoni. I look forward to guiding our long-term financial health and helping the business continue to grow at such a rapid pace.

Simfoni, the next generation digital solutions provider for procurement analytics and spend automation, today announced its continued growth and momentum with new additions to its senior management team: Greg Silich, Chief Financial Officer (CFO); Dan Quinn, General Manager, Middle East & North Africa; and Gareth Briggs, EU Accounts Director.

In Q321, Simfoni grew its monthly recurring revenue by 30%, which included the strategic addition of a large US Private Equity firm that will continue to drive value across the companys entire portfolio. Simfoni was the only vendor recognized twice as an Innovative solution in Gartners 2021 Hype Cycle for Procurement. Simfonis Spend Intelligence and Spend Automation platforms are both on a short list of leading products in the categories of Predictive Analytics and Tail Spend Solutions, validating Simfonis data-driven approach to unlocking savings.

We are delighted to welcome three proven industry leaders to our team, all of whom have a track record of success and who are capable of growing our business further in their respective regions, said Chirag Shah, Founder and Chairman, Simfoni. In the span of just a few months we have attracted top talent with over one hundred years of procurement experience. Simfonis DNA is built upon successful procurement practices, and we continue to attract talent that are true experts in the field.

The three three top industry leaders joining Simfonis senior management team include:



CFO Greg Silich, a senior executive with over 20 years experience providing forward-looking financial, operational and strategic leadership to successful businesses in the greater Chicago area. Silich specializes in driving growth, profitability and corporate value creation. I am honored to join such an innovative team, said Greg Silich, I look forward to guiding our long-term financial health and helping the business continue to grow at such a rapid pace.

General Manager, Middle East Region, Dan Quinn, a recognized expert in digital business strategy, spend intelligence and spend automation. Prior to Simfoni, Quinn served as General Manager/Regional VP for at Tradeshift and Senior Vice President for Jaggaer in the Middle East and North Africa. I am excited to be joining Simfoni at an important inflection point in their growth story, said Dan Quinn, General Manager Middle East, Simfoni. Their innovative business model is now mature and proven, their investors are enthusiastic, and they have built a talented team and an array of world-class customers.

European Accounts Director, Gareth Briggs, an established Procurement Leader who will help to reinforce Simfonis presence in Europe. Briggs joins Simfoni from Accenture, where he served as Principal Director and BPS Services Procurement Lead in the EMEA region, and led the sourcing and management teams to provide end-to-end service delivery for Marketing, Technology, HR, Professional Services and Travel. I am incredible proud to have been given the opportunity to lead and grow Simfonis European team, said Gareth Briggs, European Accounts Director. I joined Simfoni because when you combine their business model, robust and proven platform along with their inherent desire to continue to innovate you get an organisation destined for sustainable and impressive growth.

To learn more about Simfoni, please visit https://simfoni.com/.

About Simfoni

Simfoni provides Spend Analytics and Spend Automation products to leading global enterprises. The Simfoni platform utilizes machine learning and artificial intelligence to accelerate and automate key aspects of the procurement process, saving customers time and money and paving the way toward supply chain sustainability. With offices in the USA, Europe and the Middle East, Simfoni works with its customers and the wider vendor community to improve vendor diversity and achieve strategic CSR objectives. For additional information, please visit https://simfoni.com/.
The e sculpture on the SIUE campus in Edwardsville. Our academic leaders have demonstrated the ability to serve traditional student experiences, offer innovative graduate programs, and meet the needs of adults who are ready to complete their degree.

Landmark graduate enrollment, the largest first-year class in six years, increasing diversity and growing international attendance highlight Southern Illinois University Edwardsvilles strong fall 2021 enrollment picture.

SIUEs overall enrollment grew 1.2% (150 students) to 13,010 for fall 2021. The University welcomed 1,992 first-year students in fall 2021. Masters and doctoral degree program enrollment reached 3,043 students, the largest total in 44 years. Plus, international enrollment soared, growing 48% to 536 students, matching the largest number in University history.

Additional historic enrollment numbers were achieved by the School of Nursing, which grew to 1,906. Positive milestones also include the School of Business reaching 1,692 students (largest since 2001), and the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior growing to 1,851 students (largest since 2004).

SIUEs advancement is extraordinary, especially amid pandemic-related challenges, said Chancellor Randy Pembrook. Our fall 2021 enrollment numbers demonstrate dedicated and innovative approaches across all facets of the University from enrollment management and academic affairs to our Divisions of Student Affairs and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and beyond. I am proud to work alongside these individuals to welcome and foster growth in our new and returning students. We are indeed shaping a changing world.

The mix of growth from domestic and international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels is a testament to the innovation and agility of our academic deans, faculty and staff throughout the University, said Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Denise Cobb. We amplified on-ground capacity in high-demand programs and remained committed to our tradition of high impact learning experiences. We have steadily increased our online offerings based on applicant interest. Our academic leaders have demonstrated the ability to serve traditional student experiences, offer innovative graduate programs, and meet the needs of adults who are ready to complete their degree. The changes weve made have strengthened the University and helped meet our goals of access and opportunity.

The University is making positives strides in operationalizing inclusive excellence at all levels of the institution. SIUEs 2021-22 student body is the most diverse in its history.

According to fall 2021 data, Asian American students represent 2.6% of the group, Black students 13.2%, Hispanic students 5.3%, international students 4.1%, with 3.2% reporting Multiple Races, White students 67.9% and 3.4% not disclosing their ethnicity.

Numerous bright spots emerged in the initial enrollment picture, including a first-year class which grew 28% (438 students). In the first year of a test optional environment, the entering class reflected an average high school GPA of 3.5, which has been the class average for each of the past four years.

We are pleased with the quality of this first-year class, as we shifted away from using ACT/SAT scores in the admissions process this year, explained Director of Undergraduate Admissions Todd Burrell. We worked with the SIUE Center for Predictive Analytics (C-PAN) and the Faculty Senate to identify and approve new admission criteria. Data from C-PAN showed that GPA is more important overall than ACT test scores as a predictor of student retention at SIUE. This policy shift is among the steps the University has taken to build a more just and equitable environment for all members of our community.

Of the first-year students, 81% are from Illinois, and 142 of those Illinois residents benefited from the Universitys new financial program: the SIUE Commitment. Overall, the student body represents 44 states and 62 countries.

Those families completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and had an income below $63,575 per year. After Pell and MAP grants and any merit scholarships were applied, SIUE filled the financial gap by enabling the 142 students to enroll without using any out-of-pocket resources to cover tuition and fees.

Additionally, the SIUE Commitment filled the gap for 98 new transfers. Altogether, 240 students received an average of $1,519 to cover full-time tuition and mandatory fees with aid that does not need to be paid back. SIUE will continue this program as long as the state of Illinois AIM High program is active.

The SIUE Commitment is an ideal use of AIM High funds, which are deployed to keep talented Illinois students in state, said Associate Vice Chancellor for Enrollment Management Scott Belobrajdic. We were able to provide a new need-based aid source to deserving students. We are thrilled to have these students as part of our first-year class and SIUEs Cougar family.

International enrollment jumped 48% (174 students) over fall 2020 and matched an all-time high for SIUE. International students account for 4.1% of campus enrollment. Director of Graduate and International Admissions James Monahan attributes the rise to several years of relationship building with overseas partners, and a bit of pandemic-related built-up demand.

Im proud of our teams efforts to remain in contact with international applicants over the past year and half, so when embassies and consulates started opening mid-summer we were ready to work with hundreds of qualified admitted students, he said. Our Schools of Business and Engineering, and our immigration team in International Student Services remained flexible as students made last-minute decisions to join the University.

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville provides students with a high-quality, affordable education that prepares them for successful careers and lives of purpose to shape a changing world. Built on the foundation of a broad-based liberal education, and enhanced by hands-on research and real-world experiences, the academic preparation SIUE students receive equips them to thrive in the global marketplace and make our communities better places to live. Situated on 2,660 acres of beautiful woodland atop the bluffs overlooking the natural beauty of the Mississippi Rivers rich bottomland and only a short drive from downtown St. Louis, the SIUE campus is home to a diverse student body of more than 13,000.
"Were looking forward to a tremendous event where we can meet face-to-face and share the latest technology of the security world with some of the best in the business," states Robert Reynolds, President of Solis Energy.

Solis Energy Inc., a manufacturer of outdoor power systems for the industrial automation and control, transportation, telecommunication, security, and government markets, today announced that the company will be showcasing its wide range of power solutions at GSX 2021 taking place on September 27th  29th at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. As one of the largest security trade shows in the world, GSX offers an event that unites global security professionals and delivers the very latest in cutting-edge technology, and a chance to learn from industry leaders.

GSX sets the stage for Solis Energy to provide the security industry with a display and overview of its power supply solutions, including the Solar Power Plant, Continuous Power Bridge, and Outdoor UPSs. Solis continues to deliver value to its customers by joining forces with industry leading solution providers, such as Siklu Communications, Axis Communications, Code Blue, and Cradlepoint, who will be present at Soliss booth #1769. Some of its power solutions include solar generators, outdoor battery backup systems, and a suite of power management components including PoE injectors, DC to DC converters, and Lightpole Power Taps.

Solis Energy products are made to last, and installations can be found on all habitable continents and climates ranging from mild to harsh, ensuring that critical energy is running to security systems even in the most extreme conditions. For sixteen years, Solis Energy has been committed to developing innovative, reliable products that provide customers with flexible solutions that take control of their outdoor power requirements. After the previous, unusual year we have all encountered, Solis Energy is excited to be exhibiting alongside our valued technology partners at GSX  especially with the show taking place in our own backyard in Florida, states Robert Reynolds, President of Solis Energy. Were looking forward to a tremendous event where we can meet face-to-face and share the latest technology of the security world with some of the best in the business.

Attendees can stop by booth #1769, to see the latest power solutions and discuss field proven solutions with its team of experts. Solis has achieved great success in several city-wide, large-scale security and surveillance projects working with Siklu, Axis, and other technology partners. The company continues to set the bar high by delivering complete, field proven solutions to customers across a broad range of vertical markets and offers solutions that are high quality, durable, versatile, and scalable. To learn more about how Solis Energy is creating value for customers by providing power when and where they need it, visit Solis Energys booth #1769 at the GSX trade show in September.

To schedule a meeting at GSX, contact Robert Reynolds at robert@solisenergy.com. For further information on Solis Energys continuous outdoor power solutions, visit http://www.SolisEnergy.com/ or call 407-339-6786.

About Solis Energy Inc.

Orlando-based Solis Energy is a privately held manufacturer of outdoor power products including Solar Generators, Battery Backup Systems and Power Conversion components. Solis Energys products offer the most reliable, rugged, flexible, and cost-effective outdoor powering solutions available on the market today. Established in 2005, and with thousands of systems installed, the companys products today power vital applications and devices for public utilities, state/local/municipal government, airports, telecommunications companies, and corporate enterprises. For more information, visit http://www.SolisEnergy.com.

Company Contact:

Robert Reynolds

Phone: 407-339-6786

Email: robert@solisenergy.com

PR Contact:

Monique Merhige, President

Infusion Direct Marketing Inc.

Phone: 772-380-4845

Email: monique@infusiondirect.com


Dr. John McKeon and Gord Cooke at 2021 EEBA Summit The challenge for building professionals is to move beyond code, and focus on the design and construction of the built environment to optimize heathier indoor air. I am very pleased to collaborate with Gord in delivering EEBA's opening session," says Dr. John McKeon

The asthma & allergy friendly Certification Program, which is jointly run by Allergy Standards Limited (ASL) and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America is delighted to be participating in the Energy & Environmental Building Alliance's (EEBAs) Annual High Performance Home Summit taking place September 14  16 in Denver with Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Limited, leading the Opening Plenary Session for the Summit, alongside Gord Cooke, Partner and Professional Engineer at Construction Instruction.

EEBAs High Performance Home Summit will focus on providing the tools and networking that builders, designers, analysts, and architects need to take high performance, healthy, resilient homes to new heights. It showcases cutting edge research and best practices of high-performance housing. Through this Summit, EEBA will educate building professionals, with the goal that they leave inspired to effectively build and sell high performance homes at a far greater pace.

We are thrilled to have Dr. McKeon and Gord Cooke conducting the Opening Plenary Session for our High Performance Home Summit, says Aaron C. Smith, CEO of EEBA. Dr. McKeons scientific and technical expertise combined with Gord Cookes engineering and applied building science expertise will allow our attendees to gain critical insights and invaluable knowledge about how to create healthy indoor air spaces in the built environment.

The Certification Program is honored to have been chosen by EEBA to kick off the Summit with Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Limited together with Construction Instructions Gord Cooke delivering the opening presentation titled Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise: How the pursuit of healthy buildings, that are good for people, planet, and profits, is the way forward for purpose-driven professionals. The session will explore how building professionals can unlock key skills to provide a better built environment in an era where emphasis on engineering and energy efficiency is being replaced by a more people-centered design that is of benefit to all. This is an opportunity for building professionals, including designers and architects; suppliers and manufacturers of building products; and those interested in the future of construction and design to learn from industry experts on how to create a healthier indoor environment. Many of these key topics are delivered in our Healthier Homes Awareness For Building Professionals online education course.

Given the increasing amount of time spent indoors, people have become really tuned in to how their indoor environment can impact on their health and wellness. It is critical that building design is re-evaluated to improve indoor air quality. The challenge for building professionals is to move beyond code, and focus on the design, construction and management of the built environment to optimize heathier indoor air. I am very pleased to collaborate with Gord in delivering EEBAs opening plenary session, educating the next generation of building professionals and industry innovators on how and why to prioritize the integration of healthy indoor air strategies into the design and operation of a building," says Dr. John McKeon.

Furthermore, Gord Cooke shares, I am looking forward to collaborating with Dr. McKeon on this speaking session. Our skillsets and experiences are strong complements to one another, and I am grateful that we can contribute to EEBAs Summit and the building industry overall by helping to educate and inspire the next generation of building professionals to build healthier, higher performance homes.

More details, interview quotes, and high-resolution photography for the Certification Program and our CERTIFIED client partners are available upon request.

About the asthma & allergy friendly Certification Program

The asthma & allergy friendly Certification Program is a unique, groundbreaking collaboration between the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America and Allergy Standards Limited. This program helps people make informed purchases for a #healthierhome. We test household products against strict standards. If products pass our tests, they earn the CERTIFIED asthma & allergy friendly mark. Certified products include air cleaners, bedding, cleaning products, flooring, paints, vacuum cleaners, washing machines, and more. Visit aafa.org/certified for more information.

About EEBA

For over 35 years, EEBA has provided the most trusted resources for building science information and education in the construction industry. EEBA delivers turn-key educational resources and events designed to transform residential construction practices through high performance design, marketing, materials, and technologies. Through our educational events, annual Summit and various publications and resources, EEBA reaches thousands of key decision makers and other important industry players each year. To learn more, go to eeba.org.

About Construction Instruction

Construction Instruction (CI) provides leading building professionals with the application of building science and integration of practical solutions to build better, longer lasting, healthier homes. We offer hands-on training at our Experience Center, continuous online learning through our Ci App and expert-tested product recommendations to help builder professionals improve build quality, make fewer mistakes and stand-out from the competition, all while remaining cost-competitive. Get to know Construction Instruction today by downloading the app or visiting our website: http://www.constructioninstruction.com.
"This years exhibit floor is full of innovations - from software to hardware and everything in between" said Jeremiah Karpowicz, Executive Editor at Diversified Communications.

Three companies within the UAV industry were selected as winners of the Pitch The Press event taking place at Commercial UAV Americas 2021: Emesent, BRINC Drones, and vHive. Their latest products were pitched rapid-fire to a panel of high-profile press representatives at the show, and represent the cutting edge in autonomy, applications, and scalability.

Emesents Hovermap platform caught the eye of the panel for its versatility and its forward-looking ability to enable autonomy. The 1.8-kilogram Hovermap product can be used on UAVs, but can also be put on a backpack, held in the hand, or mounted on another vehicle. Using the 16-laser puck-style lidar to map the surroundings, Hovermap can be applied in a variety of scenarios. Because it uses Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) mapping algorithms, Hovermap is also capable of flight and mapping in GPS-denied environments, which can open up applications for underground, urban, and indoor locations. In addition to the flexibility, Hovermap utilizes the SLAM technology for automation, leveraging it for improved collision avoidance.

BRINC Drones is a Las Vegas-based startup that creates tactical drone systems aimed at saving lives in critical safety and security incidents. Moved to action following the tragic Mandalay Bay shooting in 2017, the company developed the LEMUR drone that has a host of modular attachments and features. The LEMUR is designed to help law enforcement, SWAT, fire and emergency responders to clear rooms and de-escalate potentially dangerous situations. By enabling communication directly with an onboard public address system, the delivery of small payloads, and, if necessary entering interior spaces by breaking glass with an onboard tool, LEMUR can facilitate critical situations.

vHive makes a software solution that helps organizations to quickly and accurately digitize their infrastructure or assets into a digital twin. For covering multiple properties and large-scale projects, vHive offers a unique solution that allows multiple off-the-shelf drones to fly in unison to complete a single capture. The software is agnostic to the subject being scanned so it can be deployed from buildings to cellular phone towers or cranes. By allowing asset owners to choose their own drone platforms and decreasing the amount of time needed to scan their assets, software like vHive offers may significantly lower the barrier for companies needing to create digital twins going forward.

Pitch the Press is a unique opportunity for exhibitors to present their products to a group of editors and reporters looking for the most unique new technology being showcased at Commercial UAV Expo. Seventeen exhibitors were selected from 131 exhibiting companies to share their new product or service during the one-hour event. Each exhibitor gave a brief elevator pitch to members of the media, followed by a one-minute Q&A.

This years exhibit floor is full of innovations - from software to hardware and everything in between, said Jeremiah Karpowicz, Executive Editor at Diversified Communications. The selected panel of journalists heard pitches across the industry and chose three solutions that turned their heads - but the cross-section of solutions presented is representative of just how far the entire UAV industry has come in cutting-edge areas of autonomy and advanced sensor technology.

Pitch the Press provides attendees a sense of what products can be further explored on the Commercial UAV Expo exhibit floor, which contains more than 130 exhibitors from around the world. Understanding the opportunities that companies like vHive, Emesent and BRINC Drones are creating is just the beginning of where and how the industry will advance.

The Pitch the Press panel included Miriam McNab from DroneLife, Patrick Sherman from Roswell Flight Test Crew, Stuart Walker from LiDAR Magazine and Danielle Gagne from Commercial UAV News.

About Commercial UAV Expo Americas

Commercial UAV Expo Americas, presented by Commercial UAV News, is an international conference and expo exclusively focused on commercial UAS integration and operation covering industries including Construction; Energy & Utilities; Forestry & Agriculture; Infrastructure & Transportation; Mining & Aggregates; Public Safety & Emergency Services; Security; and Surveying & Mapping. It takes place September 7-9 at The Mirage in Las Vegas. Its European sister event takes place 18-20 January 2022 at the RAI Amsterdam.

For more information, visit http://www.expouav.com/europe and http://www.expouav.com.

Commercial UAV Expo Americas is produced by Diversified Communications technology portfolio which also includes Commercial UAV Expo Europe; Commercial UAV News; Geo Week comprised of the International Lidar Mapping Forum, SPAR 3D Expo & Conference, AEC Next Technology Expo & Conference; Geo Week ENewsletter, SPAR 3D ENewsletter, AEC Next ENewsletter.

For more information about exhibiting at Commercial UAV Expo, visit Exhibiting Information or contact Katherine Dow, Sales Manager, at kdow@divcom.com or +1.207-842-5497. For attending information, visit http://www.expouav.com or email info@expouav.com.

Questions?

Lora Burns, UAV Expo Americas Marketing Manager, LBurns@divcom.com
We are excited to open the new London office, the company has seen substantial growth over the past 18 months with our expansion into new asset classes, an all-in-one front to back trading solution and new generation PMS.

TORA, provider of the industrys most advanced cloud-based order and execution management system (OEMS) and portfolio management system (PMS), has announced the significant expansion of their UK presence with a London office and new hires Peter Rank and Chris Hopton.

TORA has gone from strength to strength in Europe as the company continues to win new business and scale with its clients. Peter Rank has been brought on as Sales Manager, Europe and Chris Hopton as a Professional Services Manager.

Peter joins TORA from AxeTrading and Bloomberg AIM where he worked with clients across Europe. Peter will be reporting to David Tattan, the Head of Sales for Europe, and is responsible for driving new client acquisition for TORAs software solutions.

Prior to joining TORA, Chris Hopton was a Senior Account Manager at Trading Screen and SS&C where he was responsible for delivery of fund solutions to his clients. Chris will be joining the global team of professional service managers to help TORA to continue to provide software and workflow solutions, fast onboarding and leading service to global institutional investors.

Chris Jenkins, Managing Director at TORA commented We are excited to open the new London office, the company has seen substantial growth over the past 18 months with our expansion into new asset classes, an all-in-one front to back trading solution and new generation PMS.

Jenkins continued We are gaining solid momentum in Europe with our traditional equity as well as FX and Fixed Income markets. These hires are key to ensuring the company is positioned correctly with the right talent and jurisdictions, so that we can continue to deliver our clients the most innovative products and elite client service.

TORAs all-in-one OEMS & PMS offers a wealth of functionality covering execution, allocations, risk control, order management, real time general ledger, positions-keeping, P&L monitoring and SWAP finance modelling. The platform can also provide detailed reports, compliance management & advanced analytics with broker-neutral equity pairs algo suite. The system integrates with brokers, trading venues, custodians, prime brokerages and trade matching providers across the globe.
Toyota San Luis Obispo Offers the College Graduate Rebate Program to its Customers

Toyota San Luis Obispo dealership is offering a rebate program for college graduates. Through this, college graduates can earn rebates on their newly purchased Toyota vehicles. A sum of $500 rebate can be collected by them on all new unlicensed Toyota models when they finance or lease through a Toyota dealer or Toyota Financial Services (TFS). Rebates are valid on contracts executed from Jan.5 to March 31. Customers in the area are encouraged to verify their eligibility for this rebate program either online or by visiting the dealership during work hours.

This program is launched to help future and recent college graduates save money while owning a new Toyota vehicle. Students who will graduate in the next six months or who have graduated in the past two years from the date of signing the vehicle lease or the finance contract are eligible for the College Graduate Rebate Program. The customers belonging to the former category will be required to provide their college transcripts or copies of their diplomas. The customers who fall under the latter category will be required to produce proof of current employment. Eligible customers must also meet the credit approval requirements of the rebate program.

It is to be noted that the College Graduate Rebate Program is available on select new Toyota models. The Toyota Certified Used Vehicles (TCUVs) and the Scion Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles are not included in this program. Customers are requested to verify the same before applying for the rebate program.

Please visit toyota-slo.com to learn about the dealership, its vehicle inventory, vehicle services and more. In case of any queries or concerns, customers can contact the dealership team by phone, (805) 543-7001 or visit the dealership in person at Toyota San Luis Obispo, 12350 Los Osos Valley Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405. For more details, customers can access relevant contact information on the dealership website.
With their unmatched expertise on safe and effective raw ingredients, combined with our teams regulatory and quality control systems, we are excited to get Plumisol into the hands of people who need an all-natural liver support supplement. - Jim Rex, President, The GHT Companies

Vibrant Nutraceuticals part of The GHT Companies family of brands, has just released their newest product, Plumisol, an all-natural supplement that may promote liver health, support metabolic wellness, promote hepatoprotective properties, and provide antioxidant protection.

Plumisols primary active ingredient is an extract derived from an exotic tree found in East and Southeast Asia called prunus mume. This tree produces a fruit commonly called the Japanese apricot or Chinese plum, from which the extract is collected. Researchers have found in the last few decades that the fruit contains liver-protecting, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Im proud of what our industry-leading science team has approved for the consumer markets here, said Jim Rex, President of The GHT Companies. With their unmatched expertise on safe and effective raw ingredients, combined with our teams regulatory and quality control systems, we are excited to get Plumisol into the hands of people who need an all-natural liver support supplement.

Stragen Pharma SA conducted a 3-month study to determine whether or not prunus mume extract provides substantial liver support benefits. During this study, researchers found that individuals who received a dose of prunus mume saw significant improvements to their liver enzymes and liver lipid profiles compared to those who received the placebo.

Plumisol is a prime example of how Vibrant Nutraceuticals parent company, The GHT Companies, work with founding scientist partners to deliver leading products to the market.

Our science team here at The GHT Companies works tirelessly to stay on the cutting edge of supplement innovation, all for the optimal health of our consumers and our community, says Rex. We dont just throw products together with empty claims  our ingredients are selected and vetted with the utmost caution because we believe our customers deserve only the best products on the market.

Vibrant Nutraceuticals recommends taking 1 Plumisol tablet per day, preferably in the morning with breakfast, for at least 3 months.

-------------------------------------------------------

About Vibrant Nutraceuticals

Vibrant Nutraceuticals is the trusted source for nutraceutical innovation, formulating some of the most cutting-edge wellness solutions available. Our unique line of supplements is both inclusive and affordable, working in conjunction with physician guidelines to meet your health needs  no matter your age, life stage, or walk of life.

Our products are formulated from only the safest, highest-quality ingredients with the strictest standards. Our founding scientists, internal science team, and in-house manufacturing team work tirelessly to ensure that our products are as effective as they are convenient.

About The GHT Companies

The GHT Companies is one of the most trusted names in the nutritional supplement field since 1996. The group is structured to collaborate with founding scientists to develop their unique ingredient/product discoveries and to deliver industry-leading, high-quality consumer products and ingredients on a global basis.

The GHT Companies uses its unique business structure of 5 diverse subsidiaries that touch on all facets of the nutraceutical industry in order to provide products and services to customers in the most effective way possible.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information and statements made are for educational purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your health care professional.

Media Contact:

Marketing Department, request Shanna Denfeld, Vice-President

(760) 542-3000

marketing@theghtcompanies.com
Y NOW 2021 - November 2-4 With autonomous operations, customers can rapidly adapt to market disruptions and benefit from improved safety, higher reliability, increased efficiency, reduced costs, and expedited time-to-market.

Yokogawa selects global thought leaders to present successful transformations from industrial automation to industrial autonomy (IA2IA) at its global, virtual event, Y NOW 2021. Over November 2-4, 2021, leading experts such as Francisco Betti, head of Advanced Manufacturing & Production at the World Economic Forum, Michael Krauss, senior automation manager at BASF, Andreas Helget, president and CEO, Yokogawa Europe B.V., and Dr. Yu Dai, director and senior vice president, Digital Solutions Headquarters at Yokogawa Electric Corporation, will virtually share their expertise in focusing digital transformations to enable autonomous operations.

Expert panels will address the latest key topics in autonomous operations pertaining to several industries including oil & gas, petrochemical, chemical, renewable energy, food & beverage, and water & wastewater. Jac Opmeer, principal automation engineer at Shell Global Solutions B.V. and Dave Emerson, vice president, U.S. Technology Center at Yokogawa Corporation of America, are hosting a fireside chat on the Open Process Automation Standard. Yokogawas industrial cybersecurity expert, Matt Malone, will moderate a discussion on the emerging business risk management strategy for OT cyber security with Jerry Caponera, VP of Cyber Risk Strategy at ThreatConnect, Tom Finan, cyber growth leader at Willis Tower Watson, and David Llorens, director, Risk Consulting at RSM U.S.

Autonomous operations possess learning and adaptive capabilities that enable automated responses to emerging situations without human operator interaction, stated Kevin McMillen, CEO & president, Yokogawa Corporation of America. With autonomous operations, customers can rapidly adapt to market disruptions and benefit from improved safety, higher reliability, increased efficiency, reduced costs, and expedited time-to-market.

According to a global survey conducted by Yokogawa, a majority of companies expect to deploy autonomous operations by 2030. The survey found companies are planning significant investment in three key areas, cyber security (51%), cloud, analytics, and big data (47%), and artificial intelligence (42%). This will enable organizations to make better decisions across a greater span of control. The Y NOW 2021 virtual event will serve as a guide to the realization of autonomous operations. For more information on Y NOW 2021 and to register for free, please visit https://www.ynowlive.com/.

About Yokogawa

Yokogawa provides advanced solutions in the areas of measurement, control, and information to customers across a broad range of industries, including energy, chemicals, materials, pharmaceuticals, and food. Yokogawa addresses customer issues regarding the optimization of production, assets, and the supply chain with the effective application of digital technologies, enabling the transition to autonomous operations.

Founded in Tokyo in 1915, Yokogawa continues to work toward a sustainable society through its 17,500 employees in a global network of 119 companies spanning 61 countries.

For more information, visit http://www.yokogawa.com


In Newbery Honor author Veera Hiranandanis latest novel for young readers, How to Find What Youre Not Looking For, 12-year-old protagonist Ariel Goldberg is dealing with a lot. Her familys Jewish bakery is faltering. At school, she struggles with dysgraphia and is faced with antisemitism. And her beloved older sister has just eloped with a man from India following the 1967 Loving v. Virginia decision. Her sisters flight fractures the family, and Ariel pushes against her parents ingrained beliefs. She eventually finds courage, conviction, and her voice in the process, through poetry and public speaking. PW spoke with Hiranandani about reimagining her family storiesHiranandanis white, Jewish mother and Indian, Hindu father were married in 1968 intersectionality, and recipe testing.

This is your second historical novel. What is your research process like?

I think about a book for a long time before I write it because its coming from a personal place, connected to me via my family history or my own experiences. I knew how my parents got married in 1968 and what that was like for them. I knew how my mothers side of the family handled it and how my fathers side of the family handled it. I knew all these personal family details. [In this book], I explore my mothers side of the family and imagine what it would be like to be a child with two Jewish parents. Being a biracial kid with two religions in my family, I had always imagined what it would be like to have two parents like my mom or two parents like my dad. [The book] goes into personal feelings about my own connection to Judaism and the white, Jewish side of my familyhow that feels and the complications and joy in that. Im very connected culturally to the Jewish side of my family. There are complexities in this identity: the privilege of being white and also being part of a historically marginalized persecuted group, and being both things at once.

Then I started researching: what was the world like for [my parents] aside from in the family sphere? What do I need to know about what was or was not unusual for what they did? What were the expectations for people at that time? What was going on in the larger scope of the country? I read books and watched documentaries and talked to people, but also kept talking to my parents and relatives, just trying to weave it all together. I was also coming up with a fictional story, and deciding what lens I wanted to put on this time and space thats inspired by my family experience.

How did you come to the decision to use the second person?

Ive always had a fascination with the second person point of view. I love how it forces the reader to be the main characterwhether you want to be or notwhile at the same time, being a separate character. Its also strange in a way, and uncomfortable and off-putting sometimes. I wrote my first novel in second person. I changed it, but I always wanted to try again. It [finally] felt right to try it with this character because of her specific situation. Shes living in Connecticut as a Jewish girl with two Jewish parents and part of a small Jewish community. She is lonely in school and has some learning differences. All these things make her feel outside of things. My editor, Namrata Tripathi, was supportive of my risk taking. There were times where [the second person] didnt quite work or felt awkward. We kept working on it. I revised it a million times, but the essence of it was there from the beginning.

Baked goods are ever-present in the story. Can you tell us about that?

My grandmothers parents owned a deli in Brooklyn and my husbands grandparents owned a bakery. I love incorporating food and representing characters with food, and I just went there with cookies this time. I tested some of the recipes. I made the black and whites and rugelach. I ate plenty of rainbow cookies. Maybe someday Ill feel gutsy enough to make them.

Have you shared the book with family members and, if so, how have they reacted?

My mom read many drafts. She was helpful because she worked as a special education teacher in the 60s and was also a school psychologist. Ariel deals with some learning differences. [My mother] was helpful in giving me context and sharing her experiences. And then, of course, the little details and the food and the choices they mightve made and the choices they did make. She was with me all the way. She was very moved by it. Its so strange, but also amazing to see so many parts of my story in this book, she said.

This is your first novel after receiving the Newbery Honor. Did the writing feel any different?

It was so different, for so many reasons. I sold this book before I finished it. Namrata was seeing raw drafts. That was scary. I certainly felt pressure to follow up what other people had validated as a good book. At the same time, I lost myself in the story. Its hard to write a book and that didnt feel any easier, but I tried to push away the pressure.

How do you think this book resonates in the present moment?

I dont want to see these histories repeat themselves, and yet here we were. I was writing about 1967, doing research on Martin Luther King Jr. and the Black Panther movement and protests and racial unrest, and I found myself in local protests and rallies for Black Lives Matter. White supremacy is still here, very much alive, very much affecting all of our lives, and the fight is still going. Not that I didnt think that was true, but it felt heartbreaking while I was writing this book. Ariel is protected in a way, but shes thinking about these issues in a way shes never had before. Shes watching her sister make a decision that forces her whole family to consider who they are in society and who they are racially.

What do you hope readers take away?

I hope that they want to keep turning the page, that they find it satisfying to be immersed in the story. I would also like for people, no matter what background they have, to be a little more conscious of who they are in the world and of their responsibility for themselves and for others. To think: how do I feel different? How do I feel part of a community? How do other people around me feel? Can I be both marginalized and privileged at the same time? A lot of times we think of it in black and white terms. Im constantly wrestling with that on so many levels. If you are marginalized in a certain way, it doesnt mean you might not have an enormous amount of privilege in another way. You have to give both their due.

What are you working on now?

Im working on a sequel to The Night Diary. If you go through a traumatic time in history, often we see stories like the one I created. But what happens after you survive? Youre trying to rebuild your life. Im exploring how the family from The Night Diary rebuilds after their traumatic experience and how theyre both strengthened and weakened by that.

How to Find What Youre Not Looking for by Veera Hiranandani. Kokila, $17.99 Sept. 14 ISBN 978-0-525-55503-2
Shanna Miles is a young adult and childrens book author and librarian residing in the Atlanta area. She is an advocate for diverse books for all people, and her debut YA romance, For All Time, is due out September 28 from Simon & Schuster. Here, Miles discusses her passion for weaving lesser-known historical events and truths into her fiction.

I love history. It was my favorite subject in school. I loved stories of how people shaped the world, the scandals and drama. I loved reading about how one persons life could have impacted yours, even if they lived a century, or five centuries, before. As an author, you might think that I was in love with Language Arts, but you would be wrong. Language Arts, at that time, was filled with books I didnt want to read and teachers who insisted that only they knew how to read them. No one looked like me, lived like me, or came from a place like mine.

In my debut novel, For All Time, I weave historical fact into a story about two teenagers who are deeply in love and who keep reliving their romance in different lifetimes. In one lifetime, the two main characters, Tamar and Fayard, meet on a train to Atlanta in the 1920s. Fayard learns about the struggle for unionization by the Brotherhood of Streetcar Porters, led by A. Philip Randolph. It was the first labor organization run by African Americans to be recognized by the American Federation of Labor. Tamar is on her way to begin her freshman year at Spelman College, an all-girls school for Black women in Atlanta. Because so little of Black life is highlighted in textbooks and in Language Arts curricula, some kids may not know that Black people had colleges of their own and still do.

I had great teachers but there were gaps. I was taught that most Native Americans died from diseases that European settlers brought with them, but not so much about broken treaties or even state-sanctioned executions like when Abraham Lincoln ordered 38 Dakota Indians to be hanged on December 26, 1862. Its still the largest recorded mass execution on U.S. soil. If it werent for teachers like Mr. Mitchell Case at Summit Middle School, I wouldnt have known about Ben Franklins raunchy past or that I really liked to write.

Real history is messy, but people dont like messy. They like uniformity and for a long, long time that uniformity had one central tenet: America is great, its founders are heroes, and anyone who says different is wrong.

On June 23, 2021 in Loudon County, Va., hundreds of angry parents rushed into a school board meeting to protest the adoption of critical race theory. The meeting had to be suspended. Someone was arrested. The event got national attention, but it wasnt isolated. Protests against so-called critical race theory have been gaining steam across the country, with my own state board of education, Georgia, passing a resolution against it. Sixteen other states are considering similar measures. Why? Because, America is great, its founders are heroes, and anyone who says different is wrong.

So what about Lincoln as a mass executioner? Or Thomas Jefferson as a rapist or at least a deadbeat dad? Okay, what about the Civil War and slavery? Well if you read Prentice Hall Classics: A History of the United States (which is still being used in classrooms), it states:

"Though most slaves were whipped at some point in their lives, a few never felt the lash. Nor did all slaves work in the fields. Some were house servants or skilled artisans. Many may not have even been terribly unhappy with their lot, for they knew no other." (Boorstin, Daniel Joseph, et al. A History of the United States. Pearson Prentice Hall, 2007)

If happy slaves and states rights is what you get from your history textbook, youre gonna have to do a little digging on your own to get to the truth. You know in your heart that slavery was hell on Earth, either from the stories your elders tell or just putting yourself in their shoes, like only people who would have been enslaved can. If youre lucky you wont have to dig at all, youll stumble upon it.

Novels like Anne of Green Gables can tell you about turn-of-the-century farm life and sometimes a historical romance can teach you about exodusters, the name given to Black people who emigrated from deep Southern states to Kansas in the 1870s. Exodusters started their own towns and built lives for themselves in places like Nicodemus, Kans., and others in Oklahoma and Colorado. Forty thousand people escaped the increasing violence by the Klan and others in the South but you wont read anything about them in school, though you might come across them in Paradise by Toni Morrison or in Something Like Love by Beverly Jenkins.

In For All Time, Tamar and Fayard live one of their lives in Gao in the 14th century, where Fayard is part of Mansa Musas retinue as the ruler makes his famous trek to Mecca. In historical circles, hes billed as the richest man who ever lived. Hes purported to have tanked economies on his trek because he gave away so much gold, but you may never read about him in a textbook. You might learn little to no African history in your World History curriculum unless you take a special class, and those special classes, like Advanced Placement and IB courses, arent always offered in low-income schools that disproportionately serve Black and Brown students.

My plan is to be a sleeper cell, an agent for historical accuracy. I want kids to read my books and be so enthralled by the love and heartache that they dont notice they just got a lesson on the origins of Durham, N.C.s Black Wall Street (I snuck that one in, in the third act).

Hard truths dont have to be spoon fed and it shouldnt matter if youre Black or white or whatever the state is recognizing as race these days. What matters is the truth, and the truth is Black people have been here, living, loving, contributing, and fighting since 1619.

Facts endure.

For All Time by Shanna Miles. S&S, $19.99 Sept. 28 ISBN 978-1-5344-8597-6
Humble Bundle, a promotional and charitable site that allows consumers to pay what they wish for bundles of DRM-free e-books, is partnering with bestselling author Stephen King to release Red Screen, a new and previously unpublished short story. The e-book release is the first title from Humble Exclusive, a new series of partnerships between HB and individual creators on exclusive content in support of selected charities.

The release of Kings Red Screen will be used to raise funds for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which will receive 100% of the funds raised. Red Screen is the story of a cop who encounters and investigates a deranged plumber who has murdered his wife, only to discover something far more insidious. According to a Humble Bundle spokesperson, Humble Exclusive is currently in talks with other A-list authors and creators, but can't disclose any details at this time.

Humble Bundle v-p of social impact Kamini Tiwari said: Were so excited to partner with one of the worlds most respected names in fiction, Stephen King, to bring book lovers a brand new story to dive into. Were also honored to work with the ACLU for this Humble Exclusive to support their nationwide efforts to protect peoples rights and civil liberties.

Humble Bundle offers bundles of games, books, and software for a limited time, and consumers can pay what they choose and designate a portion of the sum to go to selected charities. HB has raised hundreds of millions of dollars for charity since 2010.

ACLU executive director Anthony Romero praised Humble Bundle, noting that we are grateful for their engagement and support. Romero added: At a moment when civil rights and liberties are facing threats across the country, we are heartened that Stephen King and Humble Bundle are joining together to support the ACLU to champion liberty, justice, and democracy. Through their work and efforts, they are helping to ensure the protections of the Constitution are guaranteed for all people in this country.
The winners of the fourth annual Whiting Literary Magazine Prizes have been announced, with three print magazines and two digital publications taking home a combined total of $144,000 in funding. The prizes, which are administered by the Whiting Foundation, have been awarded since 2018 to a total of 18 literary magazines to honor their "excellence in publishing, advocacy for writers, and a unique contribution to the strength of the overall literary community."

This year's winners, with citations, are as follows:

The Massachusetts Review (Amherst, Mass.), a "trove of finely written and imaginative stories from around the globe, exemplary in its commitment to formal experiment and traditional literary excellence, and to enriching the scope of our literature through its translations."

Medium-Budget Print Prize Winner ($150,000-$500,000 budget)

Total prize: $60,000

Bellevue Literary Review (New York, N.Y.), "a unique venue for exploring writing about medicine and the body in illness and health, which was the first literary journal to arise from a medical setting and is now a fast-growing hub for dialogues between the medical community and the arts."

Small-Budget Print Prize Winner (under $150,000 budget)

Total prize: $30,000

The Arkansas International (Fayetteville, Ark.), "a bright new star in the literary firmament distinguished by its exceptional fiction, beautiful design, commitment to translation, and the oasis it provides for literary culture in the American heartland."

Print Development Grantee (under $50,000 budget)

Total prize: $15,000

Latin American Literature Today (Norman, Okla.), "an essential literary bridge across the Americas distinguished by its fully multilingual issues featuring the greatest contemporary Latin American writing in Spanish and indigenous languages."

Digital Prize Winner (under $500,000 budget)

Total prize: $30,000

Full Stop (New York, N.Y.), "a dynamic and richly eclectic platform for book criticism, untethered to the zeitgeist but fearlessly contemporary, which brings hundreds of books that might otherwise go unnoticed into larger literary conversations."

Digital Development Grantee (under $15,000 budget)

Total prize: $9,000

The prize money is distributed to each winner over the course of three years; the awards in the second and third years are made as matching grants, with the Whiting Foundation doubling or tripling new gifts.

"Receiving the Whiting Literary Magazine Prize during this pandemic year is an incredible honor for Bellevue Literary Review, since BLR's focus is on health, illness and healing. The vulnerability of illness is now part of daily life in an unprecedented manner; support from the Whiting Foundation will invigorate our work at the intersection of healthcare and the arts," Danielle Ofri, editor-in-chief of the BLR said in a statement.

The Whiting Award Literary Magazine Prize will grant us the resources to explore new territories, including expanding our readership, raising honorariums, and much more," said Arkansas International director of publicity Lily Buday. We're also excited to grow both our local and international presence via in-person and virtual events."

This year's winners were chosen from an application pool of 100 applicants. The call for applications for the 2022 prizes is now open; the deadline is Wednesday, December 1.
In separate motions this week, Amazon and the Big Five publishers asked a federal court to dismiss the latest iteration of a potential class-action price-fixing claim filed against them on behalf of indie booksellers.

According to court filings, the booksellers Amended Complaint, which was filed in July, accuses Amazon and the publishers of illegal price discrimination under the Robinson-Patman Act. But in their motions to dismiss, both Amazon and the publishers insist there is no illegal agreement to fix or otherwise restrain prices, and that the amended complaint is legally deficient and must be tossed.

The Complaint recites that Amazon is a leading book retailer, takes issue with ordinary price competition, and tries to illogically and conclusorily claim that Publisher Defendants conspired with each other and with Amazon to confer a monopoly on Amazon, despite Publisher Defendants resisting Amazons growing position in the market for decades, reads the publishers motion to dismiss. This is simply not plausible. After realizing its originally pled Sherman Act conspiracy claims had no basis, Plaintiff tried to repackage them in its Complaint and bolster them with a price discrimination claim under the Robinson-Patman Act. The Complaint, however, is fatally deficient under either statute and must be dismissed."

In its motion to dismiss, Amazon lawyers also insist that there is no conspiracy with the publishers, no evidence of illegal collusion, and that its bargaining for lower print book prices is simply good businessand good for consumers.

Bargaining between buyers and sellers is one of the most commonplace, precompetitive actions that can occur in any market, the Amazon brief states. As the Supreme Court has stressed repeatedly, it would do great damage to competition and consumers alike if the [Robinson-Patman Act] were misconstrued as having outlawed competitive bargaining.

The suit was first filed in March, 2021, when Evanston, Ill.-based Indie bookseller Bookends & Beginnings teamed up with the law firm currently leading a sprawling class action price-fixing suit against Amazon and the Big Five publishers in the e-book market to file an antitrust lawsuit on behalf of a potential class of booksellers accusing Amazon and the Big Five publishers (Hachette, HarperCollins, Macmillan, Simon & Schuster, and Penguin Random House) of a conspiracy to restrain price competition in the retail and online print trade book market.

 Plaintiffs new theory, in other words, attacks the very essence of robust and healthy competition that the antitrust laws overwhelmingly seek to promote. 

Similar to the claims made in the in ongoing e-book price-fixing case, the initial complaint turned on Amazons use of Most Favored Nation clauses in its contracts with the Big Five publishers, which, lawyers for Hagens Berman claim, have "the intent and effect of controlling wholesale prices of print trade books and preventing competition with Amazon in the retail sale of print trade books."

But in their motion to dismiss, Amazon lawyers note that the factual basis for much of the booksellers initial complaintthe use of MFN clausessimply does not exist. And, Amazon lawyers insist, the price discrimination claims in the amended complaint are ill-conceived.

The premise of Plaintiffs Complaint was that [the use of MFN] clauses prevented other retailers from competing to gain market share by negotiating better wholesale prices for themselves, the Amazon motion notes. Plaintiff withdrew its Complaint after Defendants demonstrated that there was no factual basis for Plaintiffs core allegation: those agreements do not and never did contain any such MFN clauses. Rather than dismiss its claims, however, Plaintiff pivoted dramatically to allege effectively the opposite theory, that Amazon violated [The Robinson-Patman Act]by negotiating for discounted wholesale prices and passing those savings along to consumers by charging comparatively lower retail book prices to improve its market positionPlaintiffs new theory, in other words, attacks the very essence of robust and healthy competition that the antitrust laws overwhelmingly seek to promote. Plaintiffs Amended Complaint is baseless and should be dismissed.

Back in March, Bookends & Beginnings owner Nina Barrett told PW she agreed to join the suit because something needed to be done to blunt Amazons overwhelming market power.

"Every single independent bookseller goes out every single day and fights a heartfelt battle to sell books, on an unlevel playing field, against a ginormous competitor who has managed to accrue unfair advantages that we don't have, using tactics that are blatantly unfair," Barrett told PW.
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4, 12, 13, 14, 15, 15, 16 and 17.

Those arent lottery numbers, they're the ages of kids shot in Chicago over Labor Day weekend. Two of the children, including adorable 4-year-old Mychal Moultry Jr., who was visiting from out of town, died from their wounds.

If you think these numbers would shock the conscience of elected leaders in Illinois, youd be wrong. There is a lot of talk from officials these days about wanting to protect our children, but its almost all about COVID, not guns.

Two weeks ago, for example, Gov. J.B. Pritzker clashed with a reporter who asked whether he would shut down in-person learning again if COVID cases continued to rise. Pritzker, who had finished his press conference and was headed out the door, returned to the lectern to inveigh against the reporter: You come in here with a political agenda and you spread misinformation and I just think you should stop. We now need to protect our children.

Last week Mayor Lori Lightfoot touted her administrations efforts to put in place coronavirus protocols to keep kids safe as they returned to in-person learning  punctuated by picture of a teacher giving a lesson in a full hazmat suit.

The truth is that children in Chicago are in far less danger of dying from COVID than they are from getting shot and killed. According to the Cook County Medical Examiners office, over the last 18 months there have been 5,500 COVID-related deaths in the city of Chicago. Only 10 of those (.0018%) were 18 years old or younger.

Contrast that with the number of children 18 years old or younger whove been killed (36) or wounded (203) by gun violence in Chicago in just the first 8 months of 2021. The numbers from 2020 are even worse: 115 children killed and 646 wounded.

Remember, too, that most of this violence is confined to just a few neighborhoods in the city and that the overwhelming majority of these victims are African American kids.

Over the last year and a half weve been told minority communities needed extra resources because theyve been disproportionately impacted by COVID. Weve been told that Black Lives Matter. Shouldnt those same principles apply when it comes to children dying in the streets of Americas third-largest city on a depressingly regular basis?

For years, our leaders have thrown up their hands at this violence and taken the easy way out by blaming a lack of gun control laws in neighboring states. (The city of Chicago has some of the strictest gun laws in the country.) At the same time, these leaders have been too often quick to demonize police, enacted policies like eliminating cash bail, and prosecutors have continued to let violent criminals back onto our streets. And so kids keep dying.

Maybe if our leaders started treating gun violence in Chicago as a disease  a virus and a plague  they would devote the same level of attention and effort to eradicating it.
Good morning, its Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. Californias gubernatorial recall election is in the homestretch, and not a moment too soon. Its a zoo. Yesterday, while conservative talk show host Larry Elder toured the Southern California beach town of Venice, a woman on a bicycle and wearing a gorilla mask threw an egg that glanced off of the candidate. She then threw punches at a man who tried to intercede. A homeless man punched a member of Elders security detail, and others shouted obscenities. The campaign appearance was cut short.

Among the Republicans seeking to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom, Larry Elder is an unlikely frontrunner. Hes an African American conservative with no political experience and a history of provocative pronouncements on public policy, not to mention a rejection of the liberal social programs overwhelmingly supported by the African American community. This hardly excuses Californias largest newspaper for a headline calling him the black face of white supremacy. Nor does it rationalize away political violence -- or the ancient racist trope of a white person dressed like an ape while threatening a black man.

It did, however, underscore the message Republicans are pushing in the recall, which is that Californias cities have become lawless havens for criminals and radicalized colonies of the homeless. Although this characterization is an exaggeration, the woman in the gorilla mask hasnt even been identified, much less arrested.

With that, Id direct you to our front page, which aggregates, as it does each day, an array of columns and stories spanning the political spectrum. We also offer a complement of original material from RCPs reporters and contributors, including the following:

* * *

Jan. 6-BLM Riots Comparison. A new database compiled with an introduction by RealClearInvestigations shows that the George Floyd riots resulted in some 15 times more injured police officers, 30 times as many arrests, and estimated damages up to 1,300 times more costly than those of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

Anticipating Bidens Nuclear Posture Review. At RealClearDefense, John R. Harvey takes a sweeping look at U.S. deterrence efforts since the end of the Cold War and assesses the new administrations likelihood of replacing aging systems.

Dont Jeopardize Paychecks With a Corporate Tax Increase. At RealClearMarkets, former Sen. Blanche Lincoln argues that burdening employers with higher costs will undermine, rather than unleash, President Bidens vision to Build Back Better.

Peter Osnos Especially Good View Is Excellent. RCM editor John Tamny reviews the newspaperman/publishers memoirs.

Robert Nisbet Is Still the Man of the Hour. At RealClears American Civics portal, Luke C. Sheahan explains how the famed 20th century sociologist can help reverse our social disintegration.

* * *

Carl M. Cannon

Washington Bureau chief, RealClearPolitics

@CarlCannon (Twitter)

ccannon@realclearpolitics.com
This spring, President Biden appointed a 35-member Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court of the United States, charged with soliciting expert views, deliberating among themselves, and reporting back to him on the subject of reforming the nations highest court. The commissions members are themselves mostly eminent scholars of the Courts work, preponderantly but by no means exclusively liberal ones. In their two public meetings so far (via Zoom), the members have taken written and oral testimony from 45 witnesses  also various eminences of the bar and the professoriate, and also mostly liberals.

Under the Constitutions Article III, the Supreme Court and such other courts as Congress may create are granted the judicial power, understood to be the adjudication of contesting parties rights and duties, wrongs and remedies, according to the rule of law.

Is there a crisis of public confidence in the Supreme Court, such that its legitimacy as an institution is threatened? Inasmuch as the Court continues  as usual  to outpoll presidents and Congress in public approval ratings, it would not appear so. (It wont do, however, to inquire too closely into what the public actually knows about the Courts work.) The impetus for the Biden administrations commission appears to have been to placate Democratic Party elites who are in a panic over the fact that President Donald Trump was able, in his single term, to appoint three Supreme Court justices  Neil Gorsuch to succeed Antonin Scalia, a conservative; Brett Kavanaugh to succeed Anthony Kennedy, a swing justice, sometimes conservative, sometimes liberal; and Amy Coney Barrett to succeed Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a liberal. For the party elites fixated on the Courts composition, its time to pack the Court by expanding the number of seats and filling those new seats with liberal justices while Biden is president.

To be fair, the Democrats are not alone when it comes to grasping for control of appointments to the Supreme Court. Why else would erstwhile Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell have announced, immediately after Justice Scalias death in February 2016, that no nomination by President Obama would even be considered before the November election?

With an opportunity coming in the Courts next term to reconsider Roe v. Wade  by far the most contentious precedent of the last half century  its easy to understand why the appointment of justices is at the center of a partisan maelstrom in American politics. But without pretending that there was once a golden age when all Supreme Court decisions were calmly accepted, its worth taking a step back to consider what role in the American constitutional order the Supreme Court was intended to play.

Under the Constitutions Article III, the Supreme Court and such other courts as Congress may create are granted the judicial power, understood to be the adjudication of contesting parties rights and duties, wrongs and remedies, according to the rule of law. Broadly speaking, two categories of cases and controversies were to fall under the federal courts jurisdiction. One consisted of those lawsuits that the Framers concluded could be properly entrusted only (or ultimately) to the federal courts  such as suits between states, or between citizens of different states, or those in which the nation itself was a party. The character of the controversy  which might implicate common law, state law, or any other source of legal principles  mattered less than the character of the parties involved.

The other category comprised those cases arising under the sources of law that the nation was responsible for: the Constitution itself, acts of Congress, and treaties with other nations. Here the character of the legal principles at stake was what mattered, not who was suing whom.

And it was just here, in the interstices of Article III, that the germ of what we call judicial review was located. What if a suit brought to the federal courts for decision  or to state courts, with appellate review by the Supreme Court  requires the judges to choose between competing legal mandates, one grounded in an act of Congress and a contrary one grounded in the Constitution? The answer is supplied by Article VI, which declares the Constitution unqualifiedly to be the supreme law of the land, but says the same of federal laws only if they are made in pursuance of  that is, consistent with  the Constitution. (The same provision explicitly declares federal law superior to any conflicting state law or constitution.)

The key to grasping . . . judicial review . . . is to understand that it is a power to disregard (not invalidate) official acts undertaken without constitutional authority, but a power incidental to the decision of real legal disputes where rights and duties, wrongs and remedies must be adjudicated.

It is often observed that judicial review, understood as a power to declare laws unconstitutional, is not explicitly given to the Supreme Court. This is a half-truth, however. The part that is true is that no freestanding, substantive power of proclaiming the Constitutions invalidation of an inferior law is accorded to the Court. But clearly some limited responsibility for the Constitutions authority, tied to the adjudication of ordinary lawsuits and prosecutions, is given by Articles III and VI, read together. The key to grasping the Framers creation of judicial review, in both its modesty and its magnitude, is to understand that it is a power to disregard (not invalidate) official acts undertaken without constitutional authority, but a power incidental to the decision of real legal disputes where rights and duties, wrongs and remedies must be adjudicated.

In this light, we can understand why judicial review should not be conflated with judicial supremacy or finality  the idea that the Supreme Court has the authoritative and final word on the meaning of the Constitution in all its particulars, a word that cannot be gainsaid when the Court has spoken. For in the first place, there are a great many instances in which a law may remain on the books and routinely obeyed for many years, only to be disregarded by the judiciary at a later date when its authority is brought into question in a legal case. Were the courts vested with a full-blown constitutional enforcement power, they would be authorized to issue binding advisory opinions immediately after the passage of an act or the promulgation of an executive rule or order. But the impropriety of such advisory opinions, at any time, is one of the cardinal norms of limitation on the Supreme Courts authority.

In the second place, each of the other branches of our national government, no less than the judiciary, is charged by an oath taken by its officeholders to uphold the Constitution in all their official acts. Neither explicitly nor implicitly does the Constitution accord the Supreme Court a unique, special, or finally authoritative power to determine the meaning of the nations charter, such that all public officials, state and federal, are bound to obey the judges understanding of it. (The Court has on occasion proclaimed exactly this false proposition, most notably in an impatient overreaction to recalcitrant Arkansas officials in a 1958 school desegregation case.)

As Abraham Lincoln pointedly put it . . . to affirm that the Constitution simply is whatever the Supreme Court says it is would be to surrender self-government itself to that eminent tribunal.

As Abraham Lincoln pointedly put it in his first inaugural address, alluding to the Courts disastrous 1857 Dred Scott decision, to affirm that the Constitution simply is whatever the Supreme Court says it is would be to surrender self-government itself to that eminent tribunal. No one knows better than the justices themselves how often their judgments have been wrong about the meaning of the Constitution. To suppose that other responsible actors are never in a position to challenge, to push back, or even to contradict their judgments in an effort to set things right is to sacrifice democratic republicanism to one of the Constitutions subsidiary principles  a principle intended to guide and channel that republicanism, not to thwart it and create an appointed oligarchy of jurists.

Still, it must be acknowledged that the undemocratic features of the American federal judiciary  the appointment of the judges by the joint action of the president and Senate, and the security of their tenure during good behavior subject only to impeachment for cause  are best understood as a virtue and not a vice. Literally every exercise of judicial review to disregard a law or executive decision in the adjudication of a case is undemocratic inasmuch as it sets aside a decision made by officials who are answerable to the people in a way that judges are not. But this counter-majoritarian difficulty is no difficulty at all, if the Court is right about what the Constitution means and the matter was properly its business  no matter how popular, or benevolent, or beneficial the disregarded policy may be. And if the judges are ever to gainsay the popular will with just cause, their institutional independence is the bulwark of their authority to do so.

Another distinctive feature of the judiciary is the expectation that courts of law will explain their decisions, in a way no one expects legislators and executives to do. Presidents and members of Congress, as well as elected state officials, must give an accounting of their political choices and preferences to the electorate. Judges, however, are obliged to offer legal opinions, at least in any notable case that has been fully argued, that explain how a decision was not a matter of their choice or preference, but instead a matter of compulsion for them, dictated by laws not of their own making.

For at least two generations, the major alternative modes of reasoning about the Constitution have been originalism on one side (mostly among Republican appointees to the Court), and a progressive or living Constitution on the other (mostly among Democratic appointees).

This necessity of explaining how it is that decisions rest on the close examination of others choices, rather than being the judges own choices, also highlights the manner of legal reasoning at work in judicial opinions. For at least two generations, the major alternative modes of reasoning about the Constitution have been originalism on one side (mostly among Republican appointees to the Court), and a progressive or living Constitution on the other (mostly among Democratic appointees).

The first view is that the Constitutions original meaning, as understood when its provisions were ratified, is what governs decision-making, while the second is that the Constitution was enacted with the expectation that each generation would adapt its meaning to its own felt necessities. For all the genuine historical difficulties that may attend the first approach, it is a fair question just how the second approach is consistent with the purpose of a Constitution that was intended to constrain politics intergenerationally  and how it can avoid collapsing the judgments of courts into the political and moral preferences of judges.

While originalism has itself produced some controversial Supreme Court decisions  recent rulings on the Second Amendment come to mind  by far the greater number of decisions justly criticized for overreaching the proper bounds of judicial power have come from the progressive approach to constitutional interpretation. The invention of a right to same-sex marriage, the stripping of religion from the public square, and various other novel interpretations of the Bill of Rights and the Fourteenth Amendment have proven impossible to defend on the basis of the text, original meaning, or historic understanding of the Constitution.

But by far the worst poison cast into the well of our constitutional politics has been the creation of the right to abort an unborn child, for any reason and at any time in pregnancy, subject only to a few restrictions but no outright prohibitions. Since Roe v. Wade in 1973, a great sorting has taken place between the parties, with the Republicans now almost uniformly opposed to that ruling and the Democrats even more uniformly wedded to it. In attempting to remove the abortion question from democratic politics, the justices responsible for it have only succeeded in cutting a deep wound in the nations commitment to constitutional fidelity and to impartial judging.

In attempting to remove the abortion question from democratic politics, the justices responsible for it have only succeeded in cutting a deep wound in the nations commitment to constitutional fidelity and to impartial judging.

The struggle over Roe has supplied all the energy for our repeated apocalyptic struggles over nominations to the Supreme Court, at least since Robert Borks defeated nomination in 1987. The progressive jurisprudence that delivered Roe and underwrote its affirmation in Planned Parenthood v. Casey in 1992 has led its devotees into contortions of reasoning about the force of precedent  always an opportunistic doctrine for the progressive approach  and has corrupted much of what passes for legal scholarship today. Roes affinity with Dred Scott is manifold. Both were grounded on a fallacious interpretation of due process. Both denied the protection of the law to large classes of human beings, interfered with legitimate democratic decision-making, and gave rise to tireless resistance movements. Both also prompted bad-faith arguments by their political and academic defenders and brought the Supreme Court from the temperate periphery of our political life, where it belongs, into its overheated center.

It is precisely the jeopardy Roe is now in, after President Trumps appointments to the Court, that has prompted Democratic elites to talk openly about Court-packing for the first time since Franklin Roosevelt tried such a gambit in 1937. So far, it looks like Court-packing is unlikely to be the Biden commissions recommendation  and the Courts just-concluded term did not supply much fuel to propel such a course of action. But if, in the next term, the Court finally reverses itself and undoes the harm it did with its Roe ruling, one paradoxical result may be a palpable relief that our highest judicial tribunal can begin to become again a mere court of law  and stop trying to be the final arbiter of our most acute political and moral problems. If this happens, then the Court will have obviated reform efforts precisely by reforming itself.

Matthew J. Franck is a lecturer in Politics at Princeton University, senior fellow at the Witherspoon Institute, contributing editor of Public Discourse, and professor emeritus of political science at Radford University. He is the author of Against the Imperial Judiciary (University Press of Kansas, 1996) and editor of or contributor to books published by Lexington Books, Oxford University Press, and Cambridge University Press. His essays and reviews have been published by American Political Thought, the Review of Politics, the Claremont Review of Books, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, First Things, National Review, the Weekly Standard, The Dispatch, and Public Discourse, among other publications.

This essay may be republished for free with attribution. (These terms do not apply to outside articles linked on the site.) Images and photos that appear with this essay are not available for republishing.
Bryan Danielson and Adam Cole made their Dynamite debuts after shocking the professional wrestling world by joining AEW.

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Danielson, formerly known as Daniel Bryan in WWE, had appeared at the All Out pay-per-view event on Sunday by confronting The Elite, a group that Cole had rejoined moments before. Cole is best known for his time in WWE NXT.

The Elite, consisting of AEW World Champion Kenny Omega, The Young Bucks and Impact World Tag Team Champions The Good Brothers, loudly introduced Cole on Wednesday as he made his way down to the ring.

Cole started things off by threatening announcer Tony Schiavone who is friends with Cole's girlfriend, AEW Women's World Champion Dr. Britt Baker. Cole then hyped up The Elite as the greatest faction in professional wrestling and confirmed that his first AEW match will take place next week on Dynamite.

Danielson eventually interrupted the group, causing Omega to ask the others to leave the ring. The American Dragon grabbed the microphone away from Omega and asked the audience if they wanted to see Danielson vs. Omega.

"I think you're afraid to take this match because you know that I'm better than you, that I will kick your head in, and that you are not on my level," Danielson said.

Omega went on the attack with Danielson able to immediately apply The Yes Lock, causing the champ to tap out. The rest of The Elite rushed inside to attack Danielson, who received help from Christian Cage, Jurassic Express and Frankie Kazarian. Danielson last took out Elite cameraman Brandon Cutler with the Running Knee.

Ruby Soho, formerly known as Ruby Riott in WWE, made in-ring debut on Dynamite after also appearing at All Out. Soho had won the Casino Battle Royale to become the No. 1 contender for Baker's title on Sunday.

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Soho was in action against Baker's body guard Jamie Hayter. Baker was ringside for the match along with her assistant Rebel.

Soho nailed Hayter with a DDT and later kicked her opponent right in the face to earn the victory. Baker, Hayter and Rebel then assaulted Soho before the punk rocker received help from Kris Statlander and Riho.

Jon Moxley battled professional wrestling legend Minoru Suzuki of New Japan Pro Wrestling fame in the main event. Moxley was competing in front of his hometown of Cincinnati, who gave him a heroes welcome.

The fists were flying in the highly-competitive match, which saw Suzuki start to bleed from his eye after Moxley delivered the Paradigm Shift.

Suzuki seemed to thrive off of the pain and continued to fight until Moxley connected with more punches and a second Paradigm Shift to win the match. Moxley celebrated with fans as Dynamite went off the air.

Other moments from Dynamite included Malakai Black defeating Dustin Rhodes and causing him to bleed from the mouth; CM Punk starting a rivalry with Team Taz; Powerhouse Hobbs of Team Taz defeating Dante Martin; MJF disrespecting late grappler Brian Pillman of Cincinnati before being confronted by his son Brian Pillman, Jr.; and FTR and Shawn Spears of The Pinnacle defeating The Dark Order who continue to not get along.
Athens, GA (30605)

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A mix of clouds and sun this morning followed by increasing clouds with showers developing this afternoon. High 83F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%..

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Greenville, NC (27833)

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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 88F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

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Mostly cloudy skies this evening will become partly cloudy after midnight. Low 69F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

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Cloudy skies this morning followed by thunderstorms during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 81F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

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Showers and thundershowers this evening, then cloudy with rain likely overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

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Cloudy early, then thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 81F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

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Showers and thundershowers this evening will give way to steady rain overnight. Low 61F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
To the editor: The recent commentary by Jim Hurt in the Reformer ("Climate  Whats Vermont Yankee got to do with it?", Aug. 19) presents the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant as a viable alternative to CO2 emissions plants. He suggests that the plant can be restarted in 10 years and further declares that the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant is emissions free. Emissions free?

Jim Hurt: Climate  Whats Vermont Yankee got to do with It? One way to help make America great again is to create green jobs for all kinds of Americans,

VY may be free of CO2 emissions but it is not emissions free by any means. Residents of this area may remember front page news in 2011 of Strontium 90 being found in fish in the nearby Connecticut River. Vermont Yankee of course denied any responsibility, blaming it on nuclear fallout from tests in the 1960s.

Nuclear power plants are required to report their radioactive effluent emissions to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission twice yearly. These reports can be found by Googling NRC Radioactive Effluent Reports with the year and operating facility. Strontium 90 or Strontium 89 were emitted as particulates, gaseous or ground level emissions in 2005, 2007 and 2008.

Just as a matter of interest, let's review some of the radioactive isotopes produced from an average nuclear power plant: cobalt 60, cesium-137, iridium-192, iodine 131, magnesium 54, potassium 40 and the list of 32 goes on. The nuclear industry has spent millions on green washing the effects of radiation and pro-nuclear websites are legion, most of them under the guise of scientific information. One ridiculous statement I found was that coal plants emit more radiation than nuclear ones. It's good to remember that the white hazmat suits with the protective head gear are not worn as fashion statements.

Peter Van der Does

Brattleboro, Aug. 29
Beckley, WV (25801)

Today

Mixed clouds and sun this morning. Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High 78F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms during the evening. Cloudy skies after midnight. Low 62F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Judy Moore, director WV Hive, left, speaks to Gayle Manchin, federal co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), at the WV HIVE office on 205 South Kanawha Street in Beckley. Manchin, who grew up in Beckley and was first lady of the state from 2005 to 2010, met with the region's leaders on Wednesday to challenge them to cooperate with those in bordering states to develop Appalachia. Manchin said broadband development is critical. (Rick Barbero/The Register-Herald)
ST. ANTHONY, Idaho (AP)  A judge has decided an Idaho woman charged with conspiring with her new husband to kill her two children is still not fit to participate in her own court proceedings.

District Judge Steven Boyce made the decision Wednesday to extend Lori Vallow Daybells time in a state mental hospital by at least 180 days.

The East Idaho News reports Daybell was committed to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare on June 8 after a mental health professional said she was not competent to stand trial. Last month, Boyce asked for a progress report on her condition after getting letters asking for her commitment to be extended.

Daybell and her husband Chad Daybell are charged with multiple counts of conspiracy to commit murder and first-degree murder, among other crimes. The charges are in relation to the deaths of 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan  two of Loris kids  and Chads first wife, Tammy Daybell.

The childrens bodies were found in Chad Daybells backyard in Idaho in 2020.

Chad Daybell also appeared during the Zoom hearing with his attorney John Prior to discuss moving his November trial to a later date.

Boyce said the prosecution and defense still need to continue the exchange of evidence and a change of venue hearing still needs to be held.

The complex case began in 2018, according to the indictment, when Chad and Lori Daybell  both still married to other people  began espousing their apocalyptical system of religious belief.

Lori Daybell was arrested in Hawaii in 2020 on an Idaho warrant.

In Arizona, Lori Daybell is charged with conspiracy to commit murder in connection with the death of her previous husband. Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Lori Daybells brother, Alex Cox, who claimed it was self-defense. Cox later died of what police said was natural causes.

Chad Daybell has pleaded not guilty to all the Idaho charges. He doesn't face charges in Arizona. Lori Daybell has not yet entered a plea in the Idaho or Arizona cases.
Bridgeport FD / Contributed

BRIDGEPORT  A city firefighter who died from injuries he sustained while rock climbing in New York on Monday afternoon had nearly reached the 200-foot mark of his climb when he fell, according to authorities.

The Ulster County Sheriffs Office said in a report that police and medics responded to the area of 3650 Route 44/55 in Gardiner, N.Y., for a 911 call about a fallen rock climber. The report identified the individual as 56-year-old New Haven resident Stephen M. Buda III.
NEW HAVEN  With at least 124 people connected to the city school district quarantining due to COVID-19, the district is working on on a plan to provide some teaching time to those kids after school, schools spokesman Justin Harmon said Wednesday.

Meanwhile, an additional four people associated with the district  one at Wexler Grant School, two at Fair Haven School and one at Celentano BioTech, Health and Medical Magnet School  were confirmed to have COVID-19 Wednesday.

Contact tracing identified six additional individuals at Fair Haven who will quarantine due to exposure to the confirmed case, plus six more who were exposed at Celentano, Harmon said in a release. Two individuals who were exposed to the case at Wexler will quarantine.

This was the second case confirmed at Wexler Grant.

The latest case brings the number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 after the school year began to 19, with a total of 39 cases including those who never came to school, then quarantined and subsequently were found to be infected, said Harmon.

Superintendent of Schools Iline Tracey said she expected that there would be new cases when schools reopened for in-person instruction, and the number of cases so far is no surprise.

We expected these things to happen, Tracey said. When we opened, we knew we would not be so lucky to not have these things happen.

With a number of people out, Were working on a plan to have certified teachers, you know, our regular teachers, work with our students who are stuck at home either while quarantining or after testing positive for COVID-19, Tracey said.

Director of Health Maritza Bond said that with 41 schools in the New Haven Public Schools system, I do not have any major concerns at this juncture.

She added, however, that all of the contact tracing and all of the mitigation strategies are handled by the Board of Ed.

School board member Darnell Goldson said he was worried both about the number of cases and what he perceives to be the lack of a cohesive plan.

Im certainly becoming concerned by the number of cases that are being reported every day, Goldson said. I just dont understand why wed be, after a week and a half of school, still working on a plan for kids when theyre stuck at home. The plan should have been in place on the day school started.

They just continue to do the same thing over and over again, and thats a little frustrating, he said.

It seems like were being more reactive than proactive, and that concerns me, Goldson said. .. .Our kids are already behind ... and I hope they get it together  cause they spent all summer spending that money ... and apparently not putting a plan together for how to teach children once they are confined to their homes, he said.

Asked what the school district is doing to prevent COVID-19 from spreading further within the system, Harmon said, We are focusing on ensuring students wear masks properly; on contact tracing to quarantine where necessary; on providing instruction to students who are quarantined, and on maintaining good building hygiene.

Currently, students out on quarantine or with COVID are taught via an online system wherein teachers post material that kids need to work on online, Harmon said.

The plan to provide after-school teaching time to students who arent in school would supplement that, he said.

We strongly believe that kids are better off to be in school, so masking is very important, Harmon said. In addition, We do very thorough cleanings and we try to be really careful about contact tracing.

Were observing all the protocols that scientists tell us make a difference ... paying attention to masking, he said. Were encouraging vaccinations for students over the age of 12 and were doing a good job of cleaning in all the schools.

Meanwhile, the district is working with its bus company, First Student, to try to hire more bus drivers.

Last week we had a couple of instances where the buses were later than people would have liked, Harmon said. Weve had a conversation with our transportation provider yesterday and they said that the truth is ... were working in an atmosphere of constraints.

The fact is that there is a shortage and that they are advertising, trying to encourage more people to consider being bus drivers, Harmon said. Theyre trying signing bonuses. Theyre trying whatever they can to make it attractive as possible.

The school system so far this week has posted a letter from First Student seeking to hire bus drivers both on its website and its Facebook page to help the plea gain more visibility.

The citys public schools reported Tuesday that one individual each at the Wexler Grant School and the John S. Martinez Sea and Sky STEM Magnet School had cases of COVID-19 confirmed over the weekend.

Also on Tuesday, Harmon said two additional individuals from Wexler and one from Martinez were quarantined for exposure to the confirmed cases.

On Friday, according to the district, two individuals at James Hillhouse High School, one at Benjamin Jepson Magnet School and one at Sound School had tested positive for COVID-19.

The individuals have been instructed by the New Haven Health Department to remain home in isolation for 10 days, and have been provided with additional instructions to follow prior to returning to school, according to the district.

The New Haven Public Schools follows Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance and Connecticut state mandates in the management of suspected COVID cases, Harmon said.

Prior to Friday, but since the beginning of school, a number of other New Haven Public Schools students had been confirmed with cases of COVID-19.

The district said last Thursday that a COVID-19 case was confirmed that day at each of Barack H. Obama Magnet University School, Wilbur Cross High School and Bishop Woods Architecture and Design Magnet School. Twelve individuals were quarantined at that time as a result: eight at Obama, two at Wilbur Cross, and two at Bishop Woods.

A student each in the Davis Street Magnet and the Edgewood Magnet had cases confirmed (Wednesday), the district said in emails last week. Two students in the Beecher Magnet school also had tests confirmed, according to the district.

Nine Davis students were quarantined for exposure to the student whose case was confirmed, according to the district. Three Edgewood students and six Beecher students initially were quarantined, the district said.

In a later update last week, the district confirmed that, in addition to two students at Beecher, a third individual at the school tested positive for COVID-19. The individuals have been instructed by the New Haven Health Department to remain home in isolation for 10 days, and have been provided with additional instructions to follow prior to returning to school, Harmon said at the time.

mark.zaretsky@hearstmediact.com
TORRINGTON  Every year, the Torrington Fire Departments North Firehouse remembers 9/11 with a ceremony and a display of American flags, which are held around the citys 9/11 memorial  a piece of the north tower.

This year, which marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, firefighters will again remember the victims at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the firehouse, at 899 Main St., organizers said.

Members of the fire departments and the Torrington Police Department, along with elected local and state officials, have been invited to participate. The public also invited to attend.

Residents who cant attend the ceremony are invited to visit the firehouse during the day. The department has a guestbook and offers people a chance to sign it with their names, a prayer or memory.

Having the beam from the tower on permanent display is meaningful to all members of department and the community, according to members.

Its something we always do, welcome people to come and look at the memorial, said firefighter Randy Patterson. Weve been doing that every year since we put the memorial in at the firehouse.

We havent had anyone come in this week to sign the book, but there are always people stopping by, he said.

Twelve years ago, the department was offered a chance to have a piece of one of the Twin Towers. Members said at the time that New York City put out a notice that if anyone wanted a piece of one of the towers, they were invited to come and get it, and that a local contractor offer to pick up the beam and deliver it to the North End station.

Torrington received a 12-foot rusted beam from the north towers lobby, and installed it outside the firehouse that year with a commemorative plaque. A collection of small flags are also placed on the ground around the memorial to remember the victims of the attacks.
Fall is upon us. Apple picking, pumpkin carving and leaf crunching are just around the corner. With those iconic fall activities, there are also some fall delicacies, like pumpkin spice lattes, apple cider donuts and, of course, apple cider itself.

These eight farms and breweries across Connecticut make local hard cider perfect for fall indulgences.
(The Center Square)  After the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan left dozens of casualties, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle want answers on what went wrong.

The Senate Armed Services Committee announced Thursday it will hold a hearing Sept. 28 on the withdrawal with top officials testifying.

Although we have completed the withdrawal of American military personnel and over 100,000 civilians from Afghanistan, I remain deeply concerned about the events that accompanied our withdrawal and the ongoing humanitarian crisis, Sen. Jack Reed, D-R.I, who chairs the committee, said. It is the duty of Congress  and the Senate Armed Services Committee in particular  to hold hearings to learn lessons from the situation in Afghanistan and ensure accountability at the highest levels. The Committee will hold a series of hearings to examine the factors and decisions that manifested over four presidential administrations of both political parties to shape the outcome we now face in Afghanistan.

Biden has received criticism for hundreds of Americans left behind, though the true number is unclear. He has also taken fire for billions of dollars in military equipment that was left behind, some of which is expected to have fallen into the Talibans hands.

U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind., of the Republican Study Committee, estimated that $85 billion of military equipment was left behind, though other estimates have been lower.

Biden has defended his decision, saying that ending the war would have to be costly, but not as costly as continuing it.

"I refused to send another generation of America's sons and daughters to fight a war that should have ended long ago, Biden said in his speech from the White House last month where he declared an end to the war in Afghanisan.

The committee said testimony will be heard from Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, General Mark Milley, and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Kenneth McKenzie, who serves as Commander of U.S. Central Command.

Im grateful to Chairman Reed for prioritizing these critical oversight hearings on Afghanistan  the first of what I will expect to be many hearings and briefings to review and determine what happened, who should be held accountable, and how we move forward," said Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Okla. "The American people, our service members past and present, our allies and partners around the world and the Afghans who bravely helped us deserve this transparency and accountability.

The issue has been a thorn in the side of the Biden administration. The presidents approval rating has steadily dropped as the difficulties of the withdrawal took center stage.

The latest Economist/YouGov poll found Bidens approval had dropped to an all-time low since he became president, with 39% of Americans approving of his performance and 49% disapproving.

The drop in Bidens approval rating is most severe among Democrats, the poll reports. Around nine in ten of them had approved of Bidens performance for nearly all of his first year in office. This week, Bidens approval rating among Democrats dropped nine points to 77% from 86% last week.

Both COVID-19 and Afghanistan are leading issues of concern for Americans.

Twice before, during the pullout from Afghanistan, as many people disapproved as approved, but this is the first time in his first-year presidency that Bidens ratings are negative, the poll said.
Pottsville, PA (17901)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 84F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm this evening, then some lingering showers still possible overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Actor Sonu Sood who has created a niche with his humanitarian work amid the ongoing pandemic has been receiving absurd requests from fans. Starting from asking a mobile phone to asking for a role in film, the fans have been bombarding the actor with hilarious requests. Recently, another unique request by a fan has caught the attention of the actor.

The fan who was getting bored while sitting at home asked the Happy New Year actor to release a film to do away with his boredom. Sonu who is known to give befitting and witty replies to fans quickly responded and asked the user to help others in the meantime. Pass your time by helping someone, friend. You can watch movies again, wrote Sonu in Hindi.

         ,

     https://t.co/rwyPLeyhAt  sonu sood (@SonuSood) September 9, 2021

Sonu Sood reacts to a fan's request

Earlier, one of the social media users sent out a request to the actor and demanded him to help him with Rs 1 crore. Sir 1 cr do na mujhe (please give me 1 crore). The actors hilarious response was, Bas 1 crore? Thode zyada hi maang leta (Just 1 crore? You could have asked for more) (sic)." Apart from this, there was another user who asked Sonu to help him get a role in one of his films. @SonuSood Sir Mujhe Aapke Next Film Koi Role Denge Kya (will you give me a role in your next film).

In the past too, Sonu fielded requests from pranksters, as people requested him for help with things such as an iPhone for their girlfriend, a trip to the Maldives, a car, better internet speed, and sponsoring weddings. The actor who enjoys a massive fan following was recently announced as a brand ambassador of the Delhi government's school initiative by CM Arvind Kejriwal. On being appointed as the ambassador, the actor shared his happiness and considered it his privilege.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Sonu, who is known for films such as Aashiq Banaya Aapne, Singh Is Kinng, Dabangg, Happy New Year, and Simmba will be seen next in the Telugu film Acharya, starring Chiranjeevi in the lead role. He also has Prithviraj, co-starring Akshay Kumar and Manushi Chhillar in the pipeline.

IMAGE: SONUSOOD/Instagram
New Delhi, Sep 9 (PTI) Thirty-five people, including 11 Nepal nationals, who were evacuated from Afghanistan after the Taliban captured Kabul last month were discharged from an ITBP facility here on Thursday after 14 days in quarantine. With this, 113 people brought from Afghanistan to the Indian Tibetan Border Police facility for the mandated institutional quarantine have been discharged, said ITBP spokesperson Vivek Kumar Pandey. The quarantine to check the spread of Covid is mandated by the government for those who arrive in the country from abroad.

"The group that was discharged includes 24 Indians and 11 citizens from Nepal, the spokesperson said.

Earlier this week, a batch of 78 people, including 53 Afghan nationals, were similarly allowed to leave after serving their quarantine period and undergoing a final RT-PCR test on September 7.

The latest batch to leave the ITBP centre located in south-west Delhi's Chhawla area were handed over medical certificates and a red rose by the medical team of the border guarding force.

They were brought to the centre from Delhis IGI airport on August 26 following their airlift from Afghanistan, the spokesperson said.

The ITBP quarantine centre was operationalised last year soon after the outbreak of COVID-19. It has lodged over 1,200 people, including foreigners from at least eight countries, till now.

The ITBP is a border guarding force under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and is primarily tasked with guarding the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control with China apart from rendering a variety of roles in the internal security domain of the country. It also has a medical setup within its establishment. PTI NES MIN MIN

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
Maldives Foreign Minister and the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdullah Shahid, on Thursday, expressed a positive attitude after meeting India's Foreign Minister of State Meenakashi Lekhi. 'Very good to meet with the MoS' tweeted Shahid who discussed his priorities for the 76th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 76) with MoS, MEA Lekhi. The Foreign Minister of Maldives also said that he is confident of having India's support at the UNGA with the 'Presidency of Hope' theme.

"India is a champion of multilateralism": Abdullah Shahid

Very good to meet with the Minister of State at @MEAIndia, HE @M_Lekhi in New York, and discuss my priorities for #UNGA76 with her. #India is a champion of multilateralism. And I am confident of Indias support to the #PresidencyOfHope pic.twitter.com/AUmz0bSTp9  Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) September 8, 2021

Meanwhile, India's MoS, MEA Meenakashi Lekhi tweeted informing the topic of discussion which included COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment.

Met President elect of the 76th UNGA @abdulla_shahid.



We discussed his vision and #PresidencyOfHope for the session including COVID-19 vaccines, gender, youth, human rights and environment. pic.twitter.com/AbmJTZwZm6  Meenakashi Lekhi (@M_Lekhi) September 9, 2021

Earlier, the UNGA President had lauded India for its generosity in providing COVID-19 support through essential medicines and vaccine availability to other countries. Appreciating the Indian leadership, he mentioned that India has provided budget support of $250 million to aid the nations feeling the heat of the pandemic. "Celebrating India's contribution", he exclaimed further mentioning that the country is so close to the island nation in "so many other ways".

76th session of UNGA- 'Presidency of Hope'

The 76th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 76) will commence on Tuesday, 14 September 2021. The first day of the high-level General Debate will be Tuesday, 21 September 2021. Last month, Abdulla Shahid had paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held talks with External Affairs Minister Jaishankar on key international, multilateral, regional and bilateral issues of mutual interest. The visit focused on his term as President at the UNGA however Mr Shahid also discussed bilateral relations and development cooperation with the Indian leaders and media during the visit. A renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Indian grant assistance for implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) through local bodies in the Maldives was also signed during the visit.

India-Maldives bilateral ties

Both the nations share excellent bilateral ties and they were enhanced with the recent signing of the mega Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP). It is the largest infrastructure project in the nation. According to ANI, the contract will be inked between the archipelagic nation's government and Maharashtra-based construction and engineering company Afcons infrastructure. The GMCP will be the largest-ever infrastructure project in the Maldives, funded under the Indian Grant and Line of Credit.
In a significant development to India's Air Force, the nation achieved another milestone through the first emergency landing strip for aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday. In the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the Emergency Landing Field (ELF) on NH-925 Gandhav Bakhasar Section of Rajasthan's Barmer was inaugurated. The inauguration ceremony took place with the emergency landing of multiple aircrafts including Air superiority fighter- Sukhoi Su-30MKI. It is important to mention here that the area of land is situated only 40 km from the International Border with Pakistan.

The project was jointly undertaken by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Ministry of Defence. To strengthen the Air Force and sustain machinery, NHAI developed a 3.0 km section of the Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925A as an Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) for the Indian Air Force. The project was built with Rs 765.52 crore budget under the Bharatmala Pariyojana.

In a tweet, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had informed about reaching Rajasthan with Nitin Gadkari for the inaugration.

Leaving New Delhi for Barmer on a day-long visit to Rajasthan. Shall inaugurate the Emergency Landing Facility on NH-925A near Barmer, along with the Minister for Road Transport & Highways, Shri @nitin_gadkari. I shall also be attending the MRSAM induction ceremony in Jaisalmer.  Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 9, 2021

Emergency Landing Field (ELF)

The project is expected to increase the capabilities of India's Air Force and it will also prove to be helpful during any humanitarian crisis. The ELF will also enhance the war-fighting situations for the security forces and increase flexibility to face multiple threats at a time. Moreover, three helipads, as per the requirement of the IAF, of size 100X30 mt have been constructed in Kundanpura, Singhania and Bakhasar villages, for the defence forces and security network on the western international border of the country.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, and Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat attend a programme held on the occasion of inauguration of Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/2lLTe7qZVA  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

Started in July 2019, the project will also improve connectivity between villages of Barmer and Jalore districts located on the international border. The stretch is located in the western border area will facilitate the vigilance of the Indian Army. The work for this ELF was completed in January 2021 after nearly 19 months of operation. At normal times, the ELF will be used for the smooth flow of road traffic. But during the operations of ELF for the Indian Air Force, the service road will be used for the flow of road traffic. The statement by the Government also noted that the development of roadways as key infrastructure has led to the construction of high-quality highways and expressways that could be utilized as runways along with some modifications and construction of limited additional infrastructure for the operation of various types of aircraft during emergencies.
Immune responses to the Delta variant of the Sars-Cov-2 were reduced by six-fold, while those produced by vaccinations were reduced by eight-fold, found a study led by Indian and British experts.

The Delta variation (B.1.617.2) is superior at replication and resisting antibodies, note study authors, which enabled it rapidly overtake Alpha (B1.1.7), which was at the time the most transmissible version of the Coronavirus.

Antibodies are less effective against Delta variant

The study noted, "The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant was frst identifed in the state of Maharashtra in late 2020 and spread throughout India, outcompeting pre-existing lineages including B.1.617.1 (Kappa) and B.1.1.7 (Alpha)1. In vitro, B.1.617.2 is 6-fold less sensitive to serum neutralising antibodies from recovered individuals, and 8-fold less sensitive to vaccine-elicited antibodies as compared to wild type (WT) Wuhan-1 bearing D614G."

Researchers detected lower ChAdOx-1 vaccination efficacy against B.1.617.2 compared to non-B.1.617.2 in an analysis of over 130 SARS-CoV-2 infected healthcare workers across three centres in India during a mixed lineage circulation period, despite possible residual confounding, the study said. According to the study, anti-B.1.617.2 Delta variant vaccine efficacy has been compromised, hence infection control measures must be maintained in the post-vaccination era.

However, when compared to the Indian Delta form, the British Alpha variant caused only a 2.3-fold reduction of antibody potency in recovered COVID-19 patients. The people who had a previous illness or who had received either the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccination or the Pfizer-BioNTech shot were studied. Later, in a laboratory, they were used to neutralise all of the varieties of Alpha, Beta, and Delta.

Research address why Delta version appears to be fitter

The study revealed that Beta (originally discovered in South Africa) is the most evasive variation, followed by Delta and Alpha. Because of this danger, infection control measures  such as masking, social distancing, and handwashing  must be maintained even in the 'post-vaccination period'.

The Delta version appears to be more fit than the others, but having a lower antibody resistance than the Beta variant, is also addressed in the study's conclusion. According to lab tests, the Delta form is more effective in entering human cells and replicating within them. Particularly, it achieves this by altering in order to increase the efficiency of its fusion with the host's cell. As a result of research on epithelial cells (the lining) of airways and lungs, and on 3D organoids, the Delta variation is also able to replicate more widely than the Alpha type (mini-organs grown from airway cells).

What has been noticed all throughout the world, starting with India in mid-April, can be explained by these clues. When the variation hit the country in a rush, it overwhelmed the country's testing and treatment resources. However, the wide immunisation rate in the UK helped prevent a large outbreak, unlike when Alpha broke out in the winter months.

(Image Credit: PTI/RepresentativeImage)
At least 80 per cent of children in India between the age group of 14-18 years reported lower levels of learning during the COVID-19 pandemic than when physically at school, according to a UNICEF report. Noting that repeated school closures have led to alarming inequities in learning opportunities for children in South Asia, the report by the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) pointed out that 76 per cent of parents of students aged 5-13 years reported drop-in learning levels during remote learning.

"School closures in South Asia have forced hundreds of millions of children and their teachers to transition to remote learning in a region with low connectivity and device affordability. Even when a family has access to technology, children are not always able to access it. As a result, children have suffered enormous setbacks in their learning journey," George Laryea-Adjei, UNICEF Regional Director for South Asia, said.

In India, 42 per cent of children between 6-13 years reported not using any type of remote learning during school closures.

"This means they have not used any of the following for remote learning since the schools shut down: textbooks, worksheets, phone or video calls, WhatsApp to access materials or connect with teachers, learning programmes on radio or TV, YouTube videos, video classes, learning applications, home visits by teachers and private tuitions, community teaching at local locations, other websites," the report said.

'Student-teacher engagement is a strong predictor of success in children's learning'

The research found that student-teacher engagement, when regular and reciprocal, is a strong predictor of success in childrens learning, especially for younger students. However, the surveys found that most students had little or no contact with their teachers after the schools closed.

"At least 42 per cent of students aged 5-13 years and 29 per cent of students aged 14-18 years are not in touch with their teachers at all," it said.

The UNICEF called upon the states to prioritise safe reopening of all schools while also ensuring that children are able to pursue quality learning remotely if necessary.

Assessment of learning levels and ensuring catching up by students, vaccination of teachers and support staff, expanding investments in education, working with the private sector and civil society organisations in improving connectivity and creating high-quality, preparing multilingual remote learning content tailored to students needs, are among the recommendations made in the report.

"The safe reopening of schools must be considered on utmost priority for all governments. Parallelly, investing in teachers will ensure that teachers and schools can adapt to all situations. The more teachers are trained, equipped and supported on distance and blended learning, the better they will be able to reach all their students, added George Laryea Adjei.

"This is a critical investment we need to make for children as the region gears up for future waves of COVID-19. We need to build systems which can weather any storm and keep children learning, no matter the circumstances, he added.

"Pakistan's 23% of younger children have no access to any device to support learning'

The UNICEF report also stated that in Sri Lanka, 69 per cent of parents of primary school children reported that their children were learning less or a lot less.

In Pakistan, 23 per cent of younger children did not have access to any device that could support remote learning, it said.

Talking about school reopening, UNICEF India representative Yasmin Ali Haque said prolonged school closure due to COVID-19 has caused many children to miss out on learning, social interaction and playtime which are essential to their overall development and well being.

'We have examples from states like Bihar'

Safe and gradual reopening of schools in India is a welcome move as children learn best in person and this will help prevent further learning loss and alleviate some of the psychological stress they are facing, she said.

"The safety element is critical. Teachers, parents, children and communities can work together along with the government, to put in place the protocols needed for children to return to schools and learn in a safe environment.

We need to focus on rapidly building capacities of teachers who can support learning both in the classroom as well as at home more effectively. We have examples from states like Bihar, where several devices are being purchased for students to support learning. Now is the time to plan and put the structures in place to transition children back into learning. We need to build back better and stronger, Haque added.
In light of COVID-19 and never-ending speculation on the same, a study's author in Bangladesh found that surgical masks- but not cloth masks- reduced transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in villages where the research team distributed face masks and promoted its utility. The conclusion of a gold-standard clinical trial in the neighbouring country backs up the findings of hundreds of previous observational and laboratory studies and experiments.

The latest study improved the assessment of both mask adherence and community-level spread and its features.

Critics of mask mandates have cited the lack of relevant randomized clinical trials therefore, the latest finding is based on a randomized trial involving nearly 350,000 people across rural Bangladesh.

"This really should be the end of the debate," says Ashley Styczynski, an infectious disease researcher at Stanford University in California and a co-author of the preprint describing the trial. The research 'takes things a step further in terms of scientific rigour', stated Deepak Bhatt, a medical researcher at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. Bhatt was responsible for publishing research on masking.

Which mask is more effective? & Triple mask debate

Styczynski along with her colleagues commenced the study by developing a strategy to promote mask usage, with measures and reminders from health workers in public places to encourage COVID-19 protection. Ultimately, the tripled mask usage, from nearly 13% in control villages to 42% in villages where it was encouraged. The researchers then compared numbers of COVID-19 cases in control villages where it was encouraged. The researchers then compared the numbers of COVID-19 cases in control villages and the treatment communities.

The team found that the number of symptomatic cases was lower in treatment villages than in control villages. The decline in cases was a notable 9 per cent, but the critics suggest that the true risk reduction is probably much greater, in part because they did no SARS-CoV-2 testing people without symptoms or whose symptoms did not meet the World Health Organisation's definition of the disease.

Surgical mask or Cloth mask?

The study linked surgical masks with an 11% drop in risk, in relation to a 5% drop for cloth masks. The data further show that even after 10 washes, surgical masks filter out 76% of small particles capable of airborne transmission of contagions of SARS-CoV-2, stated an economist at Yale University in New Haven who is a co-author of the study.

On the contrary, the team found that 3-layered cloth masks had a filtration efficiency of only 37% before washing or use. Masks will remain a crucial line of defence in Bangladesh and other states, where access to vaccines is limited or minimal.
The European Union's Ambassador to Pakistan Androulla Kaminara expressed concern over the violation of human rights, freedom of the press, and enforced disappearances in Pakistan. The EU envoy also highlighted that the GSP Plus renewal date, which is set to expire in December 2023. According to Geo News, Kaimnara said the country needs to protect human rights, press freedom, and other pressing issues.

While addressing the first-ever EU-Pakistan Business Forum held in Islamabad, the EU envoy said the compliance report was under preparation and Islamabad's progress on 27 United Nations conventions was not yet ready, while GSP Plus for Pakistan and several other countries will end in the next two years. All the countries benefitting from the GSP Plus will have to apply for an extension of GSP Plus status by the end of 2023, said Kaminara.

Weldone @EUPakistan

 Business Forum brings together two strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation - development cooperation &  trade relations particularly GSP+



 SMEs can act as engines of dev. & forge stronger partnerships. @AKaminara #EUPAK4SMEs @mincompk pic.twitter.com/2CbviuLjHj  Attshan Ali Abbasi (@AttshanAli) September 8, 2021

"All recipient countries, including Pakistan, will have to apply for renewal of GSP Plus status beyond December 2023 as 27 conventions with the addition of a few more form the eligibility criteria for its extension".

GSP Plus status for Pakistan and other countries will expire by the end of 2023

GSP Plus is a special status that is provided to several countries based on progress and compliance. This special scheme provides additional benefits to member countries, including huge incentives on trade and financial assistance to developing countries that are already benefiting from the GSP. Notably, to extend the GSP Plus status, the Imran Khan-led government will need to show progress on the implementation of 27 international core conventions. As per media reports, Pakistan's exports are rising by 7.5 billion Euros every year because of GSP Plus, which is creating millions of jobs in the country. The EU will soon release an objective compliance report that will determine the extent of GSP Plus after 2023.

Meanwhile, Islamabad's progress and compliance report will determine its ability to avail the status renewed for an extended period. "I wish to replicate this in Pakistan and am prepared to help the Government and Pakistans business sector to achieve this together. Diversification into other sectors will boost trade and ultimately allow Pakistan to take full advantage of GSP Plus, "said the EU envoy.



IMAGE: TWITTER/@AKAMINARA
The European Union (EU) on Wednesday, Sept. 8 announced that it will conduct the immediate reassessment of the EU-Pakistan trade agreements reached in January 2014, ending the Southeast Asian nations eligibility for the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) status, ANI reported, citing the Pakistan newspaper Dawn. The EU criticised Pakistans inability to curb the human rights violations within the country as the reason for it to reconsider the bilateral trade ties. Pakistan has been widely condemned for its draconian blasphemy laws and for not implementing the EUs joint motion for a resolution that urged the Islamic Republic to opt for a more comprehensive approach to address humanitarian abuses committed under the Blasphemy laws.

Pakistan recently charged an eight-year-old Hindu child under controversial law and held him in police custody. The child was falsely indulged in these matters, the family had reportedly said. The Blasphemy law in Pakistan has been disproportionately used to exploit those who hold religious freedom and to incite harassment, violence, and murder unjustly on the accused. People charged with blasphemy flee due to threats to their lives regardless of the outcome of judicial procedures.

Pakistans Blasphemy laws are often abused to serve in the interest of the accuser. The EU had condemned Pakistan for the case of Shagufta Kausar and Shafqat Emmanuel, who have been on death row since 2014 for allegedly sending blasphemous text messages. This led to the appeals to the European Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS) to immediately review Pakistans eligibility for GSP+ status in light of current events.

Pak benefited from generous tariff, no improvement in human rights situation

As per the EU-Pakistan trade regime, the goods from the developing Asian nation are allowed to enter the bloc with an exemption to the import duties. Pakistans annual trade with the EU has recently jumped from Euro 4.538 billion to Euro 7.492 billion, an estimated 65 percent making EU Pakistans key trade and economy partner. In 2020, Pakistans export to the EU, from majorly the textile and clothing industry, stood at 28 percent of the country's total export. The EU's 3rd Biennial Assessment of GSP, published in 2020 called into question the status quo of the country's GSP+ benefits. A Joint Motion for a Resolution, backed by all major global political groups, and MEPs, pushed the EU to conduct an immediate review of Pakistans eligibility for GSP+ status, and a decision of withdrawal was reached.

From January 1, 2014, Pakistan has benefited from generous tariff preferences (mostly zero duties on two-thirds of all product categories) under the so-called GSP+ arrangement aiming to support sustainable development and good governance, the declassified report published by EU read. It adds that Pakistan was obliged to ratify and effectively implement 27 core international conventions on human and labour rights, environmental protection, and good governance but failed to fulfill its commitment. Abuse of Blasphemy Laws in Islamabad is a major concern, EUs political report alleged.
On the night of 8th September, seven Syrian soldiers were killed when a bomb exploded in their vehicle. According to Sputnik, three other Syrian servicemen were hurt due to the explosion. A day before the attack, Syrian army troops and law enforcement officers were reported to be taking precautions to enhance law and stability in the Daraa region, where terrorist activity has escalated lately.

As per the Sputnik report, the bomb was detonated on the route between the towns of Nafia and Ain Zakar and the explosive device was allegedly put on the highway. Syrian Army forces invaded Daraa al Balad, on Wednesday which is the southernmost city of the region with the support of Russian military policemen. The province is the final foothold of militant criminal organisations in southern Syria.

More about the situation in Daraa al Balad

Areas of Daraa al Balad remained under the hands of local criminal terrorists, making the circumstances in the province extremely volatile which was earlier retaken by the Syrian government in 2018. Previously, four Syrian soldiers were killed in conflicts with Syrian army troops and the militants, while another eight were injured.

According to Sputnik, a new deal on local rapprochement was established on September 1st. It included the option of trying to rehabilitate the position of terrorists who consented to surrender their weaponry, along with other issues. Militants who declined to put away their weapons were forced to evacuate Daraa, and the government provided buses for them to do so.

On the other hand, the criminal militant groups in Daraa broke the deal last week, declaring that they will not adhere to its conditions and refusing to hand over their weapons. Authorities provided them 40 buses to transfer to northern Syria or Jordan. As per the Sputnik report, approximately 93 militants gave up their weapons and gained new social standing. The settlement was made on Sunday, with the help of Russian mediators.

Earlier Attacks in Syria

Earlier, on Friday Syria claimed that it has taken down Israeli missiles as they were coming near Damascus, saying that it was retaliating for Israel's aggressive behaviour with its own air defence systems. The bulk of the missiles that were taken down were fired from a region southeast of Lebanon, and they were aimed at Damascus.

According to the state media report, in the 1:26 a.m. assault on Friday, Syrian air defences shot down the bulk of Israeli missiles, causing relatively little damage. As per the Israeli army, a surface-to-air missile fired from Syrian territory into Israeli airspace exploded over the Mediterranean Sea, with several fragments left on the ground in central Israel. Many residents in central Israel claimed to hear a loud explosion at the time Syria launched the strike.

(Image Credit: AP/ Representative Image)
Nawaz Sharif is set to return to Pakistan in 2021 and determined to assume the Prime Minister office for a fourth term, stated Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) leader Javed Latif to media outside the National Accountability Bureau office in Lahore. Citing reasons for his return, Latif said that the party supremo is coming back 'to lead the nation himself'.

"Nawaz Sharif cannot stay abroad after seeing Pakistanis stuck in a crisis. Even if (his) treatment is not complete, he is definitely coming to make up for the treatment being meted out to the nation," Latif said to local mediapersons.

Latif said there was another 'solution' to his disqualification which ended his government and caused the crisis that Pakistan is stuck in for the last three years' would 'plead' with the former Prime Minister to return.

"Since he (Nawaz Sharif) was the only one who could take the country out of the crisis," Latif stated indicating at the turbulence under PM Imran Khan regime.

UK rejects ex-Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visa application

In a big blow to the ex-Pakistan PM, the UK government rejected the application seeking an extension of his visa on medical grounds. After the UK Home Office informed him of this decision, he filed an appeal in the British Immigration Tribunal. Thus, he can continue to stay in the country as long as the verdict of the tribunal is pending. Earlier in February 2021, the passport of the PML(N) supremo, who has been staying in London since November 19, 2019, after he was allowed to leave the country, for "medical treatment", expired.

With regards to Sharif's conviction, which forced him to flee Pakistan, Latif justified by saying that conditions in Pakistan have been moving towards a situation where 'those who let him leave are not only regretting it but are helpless'.

"If there is a well-wisher of Pakistan, he can see that the country's problems will not go away without Nawaz Sharif," he claimed.

Nawaz Sharif's conviction and departure to London

A three-time PM, Nawaz Sharif was forced to resign in July 2017 after the Pakistan Supreme Court disqualified him in its Panama Papers verdict. Just a few days before the 2018 elections, he and his daughter Maryam Nawaz, who were leading the campaign for civilian supremacy, were convicted by an accountability court in the Avenfield reference case and sentenced to 10 years and 7 years in prison respectively. However, the Islamabad High Court suspended their sentence and granted them bail in September 2018.

A few months later, the accountability court convicted the PML(N) supremo in the Al- Azizia Steel Mills Company and Hill Metal Establishment references and awarded him 7 years imprisonment besides a hefty fine. Languishing in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat jail since December 2018, his health started deteriorating. In October 2019, he had to be rushed to the Services Hospital in the city as his platelet count dropped to a critically low level. The Lahore High Court allowed him to travel abroad in November to seek further treatment as his condition remained serious. A medical report submitted to Lahore High Court in August 2021 stated that Nawaz 'cannot return as doctors in the UK have not yet allowed him air travel'.

In fact, Pakistan's Ministry of Interior has refused to renew the former PM's passport until he appears in court. At the same time, it clarified that he will be issued an emergency travel document if he seeks to return to Pakistan. In another setback to Sharif, the Islamabad HC dismissed his appeals against his conviction in the Avenfield and Al-Azizia references for being fugitive from the law.
In a strong crackdown, Pakistan has issued a detailed dress code for school and college teachers in Islamabad, banning educationists from wearing jeans, tights, t-shirts and slippers during duty hours. According to a report in Dawn, Pakistans Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has prohibited both male and female teachers from wearing jeans and has issued a detailed set of instructions for teaching, non-teaching staff with regards to dress code and personal hygiene.

The letter by the FDE has said that all heads of institutions/section in-charges must ensure that every staff member observes "reasonably good measures in their physical appearance and personal hygiene. This includes regular haircut, beard trimming, nail cutting, shower and use of deodorants and perfumes.

Female teachers banned from wearing tights

The letter has recommended a formal dress for female teachers and women staffers which includes appropriate simple and decent" shalwar kameez, trouser, shirt with dupatta/shawl. The FDE has said that purdah observing females are allowed to wear scarf/hijab while ensuring its clean and neat appearance. Wearing jeans and tights are not allowed in any case. Pakistan has also issued guidelines for footwear stating that only formal shoes (pumps, loafers and mules) and comfortable shoes (sneakers and sandals) can be worn. Wearing slippers has been prohibited.

During winters, coats, blazers as well as sweaters, jerseys, cardigans and shawls of only "decent colours and design" are allowed. It is recommended that all teaching staff must wear teaching gown while teaching in the class and lab coats while taking practical periods in laboratories, the letter added.

Male teachers banned from wearing jeans, T-shirts

A similar set of instructions has been issued for male teachers and staffers who have also been prohibited from wearing jeans. The letter, as per Dawn read, Wear appropriate, simple and decent shalwar kameez preferably with a waistcoat in accordance with the weather conditions. Wear a dress shirt (full sleeves preferably with tie) and trousers (dress and cotton pants only). Wearing jeans is not allowed in any case." For summers, male staffers have been allowed to wear a half sleeves dress shirt or a bush shirt but t-shirts of all types are not allowed. Wearing slippers has also been prohibited for male staffers.

"For males, wearing shalwar kameez with waistcoat, pant and shirt with tie (preferably jacket/coat) was mandatory. For females, event-appropriate decent dress (shalwar kameez, trouser, shirt) with dupatta/shawl must be observed. Moreover, fancy or party dresses in official gatherings and meetings of the schools and colleges have been strongly discouraged.
Pakistan Police in Quetta city baton-charged a large group of students demonstrating against the online mode of entrance exams. As many as 50 students from different districts of Balochistan were taken into custody following the agitation, which witnessed participation of 300 students at Edhi Chowk on Wednesday, September 8. The peaceful protest turned violent after the city police baton-charged the students from Quetta's Bolan Medical College.

These 50 students were detained at the Power House Police Station, the Dawn reported. They all were supposed to march from the Hali Road area to the Balochistan Assembly. Some of the medical candidates were expected to raise the issue with the Pakistani lawmakers.

"The Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) can conduct exams to any testing services, we have no issue. But we won't give the test online," a student told Samaa News.

The students displayed defiance to the online mode of entrance exams following alleged irregularities in marks of candidates who appeared through the process. The students, who appeared for the online entrance, were allotted low grades, ANI reported, citing Samaa News. Additionally, the students also urged the authorities to conduct the entrance exam for the medical field via offline mode.

Over 300 male and female candidates took part in the sit-in protest against "injustice" they faced via online mode of exam. As per reports, the students halted traffic at Zarghoon Road to march towards the Red Zone, where the governor and the secretariat offices are located.

Gross irregularities found in PMC results

As per reports, the head of the Students Action Committee Haseebullah Baloch informed the journalists that the PMC framed questions that were beyond the stipulated syllabus. Furthermore, he also alleged that the marking scheme displayed "gross irregularities" announced by the PMC. Some candidates were also declared "fail" without having been allowed to sit for the exams, Baloch told reporters outside Quetta Press Club.

Meanwhile, opposition parties and Balochistan Assembly condemned the attack on students by the Pakistan Police. They also pointed out the increase in police brutality in the country, Samaa News reported.

Surge in COVID-19 cases hinders offline mode of exams

Citing the spike in COVID-19 cases in Pakistan, the Imran Khan-led government stated that the offline mode of exams is currently impossible. With 6.44 per cent positive cases in the country, the Pakistan government is struggling to conduct tests via pen and paper mode. The Pakistan Health Ministry yesterday informed that the country recorded 83 COVID-related deaths in the last 24 hours.

(With inputs from ANI)

(Image: AP/PIXABAY)
Days after the Taliban claimed control of Panjshir, a French public intellectual and journalist has claimed that National Resistance Front of Afghanistan leader Ahmad Massoud is still holed up in the province. Taking to Twitter on Thursday, Bernard-Henri Levy revealed that he had spoken to Massoud who confirmed the same. Moreover, he asserted that the terrorist outfit was yet to seize control of the entire province. Despite the Taliban hoisting its flag in Panjshir's capital Bazarak, the NRF too had stressed that its guerillas were present at strategic locations in the province.

Bernard-Henri Levy stated, "I spoke with Ahmad Massoud. The Taliban controls the Panjshir valley, not the mountain. The resistance is organized. Morale is high. The son of Ahmad Shah Massoud is standing somewhere in Panjshir. In him, burns the flame of free Afghanistan". Earlier, Taliban spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid alleged that Afghanistan 'caretaker' president Amrullah Saleh has fled to Tajikistan.

Jai parle avec #AhmadMassoud . Les #Talibans controlent dans le #Panjshir la vallee pas la montagne. La resistance sorganise. Le moral est haut. Le fils de #AhmadShahMassoud se tient quelque part dans le #panshir . En lui brule la flamme de l#Afghanistan libre (photo 9.9.2020) pic.twitter.com/fSJucH666N  Bernard-Henri Levy (@BHL) September 9, 2021

Ahmad Massoud resists Taliban takeover

Ahmad Massoud is the son of late Afghan politician and military commander Ahmad Shah Massoud who is revered for his heroic fight against the Taliban. He was assassinated by suicide bombers on September 9, 2001, two days before the 9/11 terror attack. While Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani resigned and fled the country with his associates after the Taliban stormed into Kabul on August 15, the NRF under the leadership of Massoud and Afghanistan's 'caretaker' president Amrullah Saleh tried their best to prevent the terror group from capturing Panjshir.

While Massoud urging the Western nations to supply them with arms and ammunition via an opinion piece in The Washington Post on August 18, his plea fell on deaf ears. On September 5, the NRF suffered a big setback after its spokesperson Fahim Dashty and General Sahib Abdul Wadood Zhor were killed during the fighting with the terrorist outfit. Even though the Taliban claimed that it had taken over the province on Monday, the NRF called upon people to continue their resistance.

In an audio message posted on his Facebook page on September 6, Massoud expressed condolences with those martyred in the battle with the Taliban. Appealing for international support, he added, "Taliban have become more radical. Taliban are not Afghans, they are outsiders and work for outsiders and their mission is to keep the country isolated from the rest of the world. All Afghans should fight against the Taliban in any form possible. Resistance is still alive."

(Image: Twitter/AP)
China has deployed fighter jets and lashed out at the US, calling it the biggest destroyer of peace after a frontline American warship sailed past a reef in the contested South China Sea. On Wednesday, 8 September 2021, US Navys Destroyer USS Benfold sailed past the Mischief Reef, located close to the Spratly Islands, irking Beijing which claims sovereignty over almost the whole of the South China Sea. Notably, China is not the only one claiming rights over parts of the 3.5 million square kilometres wide sea, other players include The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Brunei.

Normal inspection

In a statement, Lt Mark Langford, deputy public affairs officer of US 7th Fleet said, On September 8, USS Benfold (DDG 65) asserted navigational rights and freedoms in the Spratly Islands, consistent with international law. This FONOP upheld the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea. USS Benfold demonstrated that Mischief Reef, a low-tide elevation in its natural state, is not entitled to a territorial sea under international law,

Furthermore, he asserted that the military ship was engaged in normal operations within 12 nautical miles of the Mischief Reef. These missions are rule-of-law based and demonstrate our commitment to upholding the rights, freedoms, and lawful uses of the sea and airspace guaranteed to all nations, he said adding that  freedom of navigation operations in the South China Sea is a part of routine exercises of the US Navy.

'No prermission taken'

However, the Chinese Navy was quick to respond to the sighting. In a statement, Chinas Peoples Liberation Armys (PLA) southern theatre command asserted that the US operation was conducted sans permission. Announcing that it will remain on high alert, PLA said that facts have repeatedly proved that the US is an out-and-out South China Sea security risk maker and the biggest destroyer of peace and stability in the south China Sea.

Earlier, the Indian Defence Ministry announced that it will send a task force of four frigates on two months deployment in the South China Sea. Amidst an increasing shift in the balance of power in the Indo-pacific region, India has announced the deployment of warships to mark its military presence in the region.

Image: USNavy/Twitter
America's Central Intelligence Agency Director William Burns on Thursday met Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and ISI head Lt Gen Faiz Hamid during which they discussed issues related to regional security issues and the current situation in Afghanistan, the military said.

The meeting was held after the Taliban on Tuesday unveiled a hardline interim government with at least 14 members of the Cabinet, including acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, being listed on the UN Security Council's terrorism blacklist.

Burns and Bajwa exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, regional security and the current situation in Afghanistan, the Pakistan Army's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement.

Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director-General Hamid was also present during the meeting, it said.

It was reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to cooperating with its international partners for peace in the region and ensuring a stable and prosperous future for (the) Afghan people, the statement said.

Burns' Islamabad visit came days after the ISI chief dashed to Kabul on an unannounced visit last week and met Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. It is the first high-level visit by a US official to Pakistan after the completion of its withdrawal from Afghanistan on August 31.

Before coming to Pakistan, US intelligence chief Burns, accompanied by a few officials, reportedly paid a quiet visit to India, primarily to discuss ways to mitigate security threats that may emanate from Afghanistan.

It was learnt that Burns held talks with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and a number of senior officials of the National Security Secretariat on Tuesday. However, there was no official statement on the visit by either the Indian security establishment or the US embassy in New Delhi.

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Dozens of foreigners, including Americans, boarded a commercial flight at Kabul airport on Thursday in the first large-scale evacuation since US and NATO forces left Afghanistan late last month. Their departure marked a significant breakthrough in the bumpy coordination between the US and Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers.

The Taliban have said they would let foreigners and Afghans with valid travel documents leave, but a days-long standoff over charter planes at another airport had cast some doubt on Taliban assurances. Thursday's Qatar Airways flight is heading to Doha.

Earlier, Qatari special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani declared it a historic day and said that a large group of foreigners would depart Thursday on a Qatar Airways flight that had earlier ferried humanitarian aid to the country.

A senior US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren't authorised to brief the media, said that two very senior Taliban official helped facilitate the departure. The 200 includes Americans, green card holders and other nationalities, the official said.

The flight represents the first to depart from Kabul airport since American forces left the country at the end of August, their departure accompanied by a frantic airlift of tens of thousands of foreign citizens and Afghans fleeing the Taliban.

The scenes of chaos, including Afghans plunging to their deaths after clinging to military aircraft that was taking off and a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 US service members, came to define the fraught end to America's two-decade war.

A foreign diplomat, likewise speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorised to brief the media, said another 200 foreigners, including Americans, would depart in the next couple of days.

The departure of a large group of Americans, a first since the US withdrawal, signals that US officials have come to an arrangement with Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers.

Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes, al-Qahtani said from the Kabul airport tarmac, adding that another commercial flight would take off on Friday. Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.

But it remains uncertain what the resumption of international flights over the next few days will mean for the tens of thousands of Afghans desperate to flee Afghanistan's new Taliban leaders over fears of what their rule will hold. Hundreds of other Afghans at risk after the Taliban takeover because of their past work with Americans have gathered for more than a week in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif, waiting for permission to board privately chartered evacuation flights out of the country.

The Taliban have assured the world they will let passengers with valid travel documents leave, but many of those at the northern airport did not have such papers. A stand-off between the Taliban and organisers of several charter planes who had hoped to evacuate the Americans and at-risk Afghans has ensued.

Following the US-led evacuation of over 100,000 people from the country in the wake of the troop pullout, extensive damage at Kabul airport raised questions over how soon the transport hub could resume for commercial flights. Technical experts from Qatar and Turkey have been working to restore operations.

Al-Qahtani told reporters that the airport's radar was now active and covering some 70 miles (112 km) after US forces left it inoperable. Authorities were coordinating with Pakistan as they tried to fix the area control for the airspace, he added.

(Image: AP)
West Africas main regional bloc has suspended Guineas membership after a coup d'etat dethroned the country's president Alpha Conde. Earlier on Wednesday, the Economic of Western African States (ECOWAS) held an emergency summit wherein they called for the re-establishment of democracy in Guinea and immediate release of Conde. Furthermore, the group also agreed on sending a high-level mission to Guinea at the earliest.

At the end of that mission, ECOWAS should be able to re-examine its position, Alpha Barry, Burkina Fasos foreign minister, told reporters in Ouagadougou after the meeting.

On Sunday, an unverified video surfaced online which showed nine unnamed soldiers surrounding the countrys President Alpha Conde hours after heavy gunfires were heard near the presidential palace. However later, the defence ministry said the coup attempts were thwarted by the National Guards. Notably, the head of Guineas special forces, Colonel Mamady Doumbouya, also appeared in the broadcast announcing the takeover.

UN calls for President's release

Earlier, the UN Chief strongly condemned the military takeover and urged the military to immediately release President Alpha Conde. Notably, the African Union also joined Guterres in condemning the coercive takeover. The current President of the African Union, H.E. Felix Tshisekedi and the Chairman of the African Union Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat condemn any seizure of power by force and call for the immediate release of President Alpha Conde, they asserted in a release. They also called for peace and security in the region.

Guinea's President criticised for corrupt system, authoritarian rule

President Conde has faced mounting criticism since he assumed the third term in office, saying the two-term limit did not apply to him because of a constitutional referendum he had put forth. He was re-elected but the decision called for violent demonstrations on the streets. The Opposition told the media that dozens were killed.

Conde, who is 83, could remain in power until 2030 if he wins again in 2025. He first came to power in 2010 in the country's first democratic election since independence from France in 1958. While few observed his presidency as a fresh start, others claim that Guinea is mired by decades of corrupt, authoritarian rule. Opponents say he failed to improve Guineans' history, most of whom live in poverty despite the country's vast mineral riches. In 2011, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt after gunmen surrounded his residence overnight and pounded his bedroom with rockets. The rock-propelled grenade landed inside the compound, while one of his security officers was killed.

Image: AP
Dozens of demonstrators marched in Afghanistan's western city of Herat on Tuesday to protest against Pakistan's perceived support for the Taliban.

The protesters chanted "Damn Pakistan" and held signs against Pakistan's chief spy, Faiz Hameed whose recent visit to Afghanistan was seen as a public show of support for the Taliban.

Afghanistan's previous government routinely accused Pakistan of aiding the Taliban, a charge Islamabad has denied. Former vice president Amrullah Saleh, one of the leaders of the anti-Taliban forces, has long been an outspoken critic of neighboring Pakistan.

The protesters marched to the provincial governor's residence.

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Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte will run for vice president next year to continue his crackdown against drugs and insurgents, according to the PDP-Laban partys official statement. Duterte on 8 September accepted his party's nomination for the Vice Presidency despite that the leader has been barred under the constitution from contesting for another term. "I will run for vice president," Duterte told the press late Tuesday in a pre-recorded speech, adding that his party PDP-Laban had made an announcement earlier and that he has agreed to contest for the position.

"I will continue the crusade. I'm worried about the drugs, insurgency -- well, number one is insurgency, then criminality, drugs," the incumbent leader said. He added that his decision to contest for the second term was driven by the love of country. "It is really because I want to see the continuity of my efforts even though I may not be the one giving direction, I might be able to help," Duterte told a press conference on Wednesday. "I may not have the power to give the direction or guidance, but I can always express my views in public, he said.

Decision taken ahead of assembly to endorse 'Bong' Go as presidential candidate

Duertes decision to run for vice president came ahead of the national assembly scheduled on 8 September organised by the ruling PDP-Laban party to endorse Senator Christopher Bong Go, a presidential candidate for the May 2022 elections. A boxer-turned-senator Manny Pacquiaos party, although, labelled Duterte ticket a smokescreen" alleging that the Philippines leader will be running for vice presidency to safeguard his reputation. Philippines leaders are allowed to hold office for up to one six-year term, and Duertes tenure is set to expire in June 2022.

Executive vice president of the ruling PDP-Laban party, Karlo Nograles, told the reporters that by running for the office of the Vice President, Duerte was actually making the sacrifice and heeding "the clamor of the people, as the act will guarantee continuity of the administrations programs during the past five years. Duterte, who is renowned for his campaign against illegal drugs, faces the possibility of a probe by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity as his crackdown may have allegedly resulted in thousands of deaths with "near impunity," the UN stated in a report. Critics and opposition lawmakers, meanwhile, condemned Duertes decision saying that the Philippines strongman intends to cling on to power even after his presidential term concludes.
Naga Insurgent Group NSCN (K) Niki Signs Ceasefire Pact With Centre For Peace In Nagaland

In a big development on Wednesday, the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland (K) Niki Group signed a ceasefire pact with the Centre to bring lasting peace in Nagaland. Already, the Union government has entered into similar agreements with other Naga groups such as NSCN(NK), NSCN(R) and NSCN(K)-Khango besides signing a Framework Agreement with NSCN(IM). The present pact was signed by Piyush Goyal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs and Nikato Pilot Sumi and Abel Zingru Thuer who are members of the militant group.

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Punjab CM Amarinder Singh Calls Centre's Decision To Increase MSP Of Wheat 'pathetic'

The Chief Minister of Punjab, Captain Amarinder Singh on Wednesday slammed Centre's announcement on the increase in the minimum support price (MSP) of wheat, calling it "pathetic." He further accused the Centres decision on price hike as "putting salt on the wounds of farmers". Captain Amarinder Singh has been demonstrating against farm laws over the last ten months.

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UP Health Minister Assures All Possible Measure In Place To Control Viral Fever Outbreak

Amid a surge in cases of viral fever from Uttar Pradesh, State Health Minister Jai Pratap Singh on Wednesday assured that the state government has been taking all the possible steps for controlling the outbreak of the viral fever. He further added that door-to-door surveys will be conducted for understanding the problem in detail and making necessary measures. Over the past few days, several districts of Uttar Pradesh have been reporting cases of viral fever among people especially children. With the pandemic situation in place, the new threat has become a matter of concern for the Uttar Pradesh government.

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'End Of Anarchy': China Welcomes Taliban Govt, Backs It To Restore Order In Afghanistan

A day after the Taliban announced its caretaker government in Afghanistan, China on Wednesday welcomed the new dispensation in Kabul. Calling it the 'end of anarchy,' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin, in a media briefing, said that it was the need of the hour to restore the domestic order and pursue post-war reconstruction in Afghanistan. He further said that according to the Taliban, the caretaker government has been formed to restore social and economic order in the country, and China respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Afghanistan, reported CGTN News.

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US Not Inclined To Support NRF? Blinken Says Focus On 'conveying Expectations' To Taliban

Though the National Resistance Front of Afghanistan has waged a brave battle against the Taliban, the US indicated that it is not inclined to support it. In an exclusive interview with TOLOnews Director Lotfullah Najafizada on Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was asked as to whether his country was in touch with the NRF. In response, Blinken said, "Our focus right now is on working with the international community to set clear expectations for the government that emerges in Afghanistan, and to communicate those expectations to the government and what the government to be and to work on that basis".

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Karnal: Internet, SMS Services Remain Suspended For 3rd Day Amid 'Kisan Mahapanchayat'

The Haryana Government on Thursday extended the suspension of Internet and SMS services in Karnal in view of the massive farmers protest in the district. According to the latest notice issued by the Manohar Lal Khattar Government, mobile internet and SMS services have been snapped for the third consecutive day in Karnal, to stop the spread of misinformation amid the Kisan Mahapanchayat. The order read, "In view of farmers' agitation in Karnal, Haryana Government suspends mobile internet and SMS services in the district "to stop the spread of misinformation"; the order to remain in effect till 11:59 pm today."

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Dhanbad Judge Death: CBI Registers Two More FIRs Related To Alleged Theft In The Case

In the latest development in the Dhanbad judge death case, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Wednesday filed two more FIRs in connection with an alleged theft related to the case. According to CBI, the two FIRs pertain to the theft of three mobile phones by accused persons. With the two new cases, the central probe agency is now investigating three cases in relation to the death of Judge Uttam Anand. The theft cases were additionally being probed by the Jharkhand Police before the central agency took over the investigation of the entire case.

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Pakistan Openly Endorses Taliban Government; Says 'it Will Meet People's Needs'

Facing a backlash over its blatant interference in Afghanistan, Pakistan stopped short of formally recognising the new Taliban government on Wednesday. In a statement issued by Pakistan's Ministry of Ministry Affairs, it was asserted that the newly announced Cabinet would ensure that urgent needs of people are addressed. At the same time, it stated that it will continue to closely follow the evolving situation in the war-torn country.

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PM Modi Meets Russian NSA Nikolai Patrushev; Discuss Afghan Crisis, Regional Stability

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday met Russian National Security Advisor Nikolai Patrushev and discussed important regional developments. The two reaffirmed their intention to strengthen coordination in fields of enhancing regional stability, including in Afghanistan. According to the Russian Embassy, "They spoke about the prospects for strengthening interaction in multilateral formats, including the SCO and BRICS, as well as the development of the Russian-Indian cooperation in the trade and economic sphere."

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Maldives' Abdullah Shahid Calls India Champion Of Multilateralism After Meeting MoS Lekhi

Maldives Foreign Minister and the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Abdullah Shahid, on Thursday, expressed a positive attitude after meeting India's Foreign Minister of State Meenakashi Lekhi. 'Very good to meet with the MoS' tweeted Shahid who discussed his priorities for the 76th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 76) with MoS, MEA Lekhi. The Foreign Minister of Maldives also said that he is confident of having India's support at the UNGA with the 'Presidency of Hope' theme.

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Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Syromolotov noted that the cooling of relations between Moscow and Washington does not mean that the two nations have been collaborating on counterterrorism in vain for the past 20 years.

In an interview with Sputnik, Syromolotov said that the counterterrorism cooperation between the Russian Federation and the United States has been developing in varying degrees of intensity over the 20 years since the events of 9/11, and the current cooling of their relations does not mean that these two decades have gone in vain and to no avail, according to Sputnik.

Russian and US foreign affairs agencies were constructive

The envoy said that Moscow has consistently stated that the 2018-2019 interaction between Russian and US foreign affairs agencies was very constructive. Syromolotov also said that this discourse had every possibility to become an 'all-weather' one, unaffected by external irritants.

After the devastating 9/11 attacks, Syromolotov believes that counterterrorism collaboration with Washington is objectively important. Despite the fact that the political conversation is now stalled, counterterrorism cooperation with the US is absolutely required, as it is in line with our national interests and the responsibilities of maintaining world peace and security. He further stated that they should not require such collaboration any more than their transatlantic colleagues.

Syromolotov claimed that Washington's meddling in the affairs of Iraq, Libya, and Syria has resulted in the creation of terrorist organisations in these countries, which is a subject of considerable global worry. He stated that the major lesson that the international community should take up from the US anti-terrorism programme is that the battle against terrorism must be conducted in strict accordance with international law's norms and principles.

Syromolotov added that the United States' disdain for international law, expressed in its unlawful involvement and violation of Iraq's, Libya's, and Syria's territorial integrity, contributed to the creation of the world's most dangerous terrorist organisations in these countries.

9/11 was used for justifying the 2003 invasion of Iraq

Former US President George W. Bush invaded Afghanistan in 2001 as part of the infamous "war on terror" that followed the 9/11 terrorist attacks. According to the most recent estimate, about 47,200 Afghan civilians were killed in the war, in addition to US personnel, according to Sputnik. 9/11 was also used for justifying the 2003 invasion of Iraq, with the Bush administration asserting that Saddam Hussein was cooperating with al-Qaeda in the run-up to the war.

Image: @mfa_russia/Twitter
The Taliban is interested in establishing diplomatic relations with all countries, except Israel, the group's spokesperson Suhail Shaheen said on Wednesday. The Taliban leader told Russian agency Sputnik that it was willing to build good relations with all countries including the US, which withdrew all its military presence from Afghanistan, last month. He also extended an invite to countries that were willing to participate in reconstruction work in the war-torn nation. However, Israel was not amongst these countries, the Taliban spokesperson confirmed.

Suhail Shaheen told Sputnik, "In a new chapter if America wants to have a relation with us, which could be in the interest of both countries and both peoples, and if they want to participate in the reconstruction of Afghanistan, they are welcome.'" He added, '"Of course, we won't have any relation with Israel. We want to have relations with other countries, Israel is not among these countries."

The Taliban harbours close relations with the anti-semitic terrorist organisation al-Qaeda, which is responsible for terrorising Israel. The two have joined hands to take over the Panjshir Valley-- the last-standing bastion of the resistance forces. Recently, al-Qaeda put out a two-page statement over the Taliban's triumph in the war-ravaged nation and congratulated the group.

Intelligence has claimed the Taliban will invite al-Qaeda to rebuild its capabilities in Afghanistan. Michael Morell, who twice served as acting CIA director addressed a panel on the 9/11 attacks on Wednesday where he suggested that the Taliban will give safe haven to al-Qaeda. Earlier this week, reports had revealed how Israel was going to be the next big target of al-Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks, a move consistent with Osama Bin Laden's obsession with the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Taliban speaks to Israel journalist

Last month, a controversy broke out after Taliban spokesperson Suhail Shaheen gave an interview to Israels state TV news channel- Kan. Later, he lashed out at Kan journalist Roi Kais, claiming that he had not told him that he was Israeli. In the interview, the Taliban spokesperson had said that the terror group would protect non-Muslim minorities within Afghanistan, including Zebulon Simantov, the last Jew living there. Moreover, he also claimed that the Taliban does not have ties to Hamas, the Palestinian terror group which has been at loggerheads with Israel in the Gaza strip.
Just a day after announcing a caretaker government for Afghanistan, the Taliban have imposed restrictions on protests in the country. As the National Resistance Force of Afghanistan (NRFA) continues to call for the Taliban's ousting, hundreds of people have taken to the streets demanding democracy in the country. However, the insurgents, in their latest diktat, have put in stringent conditions to curb the growing resistance.

According to Pajhwok News, all people wanting to stage protests would be required to take permission from Ministers of Justice of the recently minted Taliban government. Additionally, the purpose, slogans, place, time and all 'other' details of the demonstration need to be shared by the people. Furthermore, full details of the protests are needed to be shared with security officials 24 hours prior to the demonstrations.

Anti-Taliban resistance is growing

Meanwhile, the resistance calls against the Taliban have increased manifold as the battle for Panjshir nears a month. In a tweet on Monday, the NRFA denied the claims that Panjshir had fallen to the Taliban. The resistance front said that its fighters are still present in strategic positions across the valley. The anti-Taliban front also assured that the fight will continue against the Taliban and its 'partners' (Pakistan).

Heeding Ahmad Massoud's call for a nationwide uprising, thousands of Afghan civilians hit the streets of Kabul on Tuesday and protested outside the Pakistan embassy against their interference in Afghanistan. Slogans of 'Death to Pakistan' and 'Long Live Afghanistan' and 'Azadi' were chanted by the protestors outside Pakistan Embassy, after which the Taliban's Badri Force resorted to incessant firing in the air to disperse the crowd. Moreover, cowardly Taliban terrorists also lathi-charged the women who were a part of the protests.

Taliban attack Panjshir with Pakistan's support

The Taliban attacked the Panjshir valley on Monday with brute force along with aerial support of Pakistan Air Force which bombed the Panjshir valley, thus inflicting heavy casualties on the Northern Resistance Force. Along with NRFA spokeman Mohammad Fahim Dashty, General Abdul Wudod Zara (Ahmad Shah Massoud's nephew) too was killed in action in Panjshir. Meanwhile, Ahmad Massoud, who has been leading the Anti-Taliban resistance, relayed an audio message urging the entire Afghan population to revolt against the Taliban regime.

Image: AP




In a major development, the Northern Alliance on Thursday busted the Taliban's propaganda and released a video outlining Pakistan's role in the fall of Panjshir. Busting the propaganda of the Taliban, the Northern Alliance key commanders were seen in the video addressing the people of Afghanistan to fight against insurgent groups till death.

In the video shared, key Northern Alliance commanders including Ahmad Massoud,Saleh Registani, Hamid Saifi, Khalid Amiri, and Munib Amiri are seen standing together. In their address, the Northern Alliance said that the fall of Panjshir to the Taliban did not mean the end of the war. The Northern Alliance also appealed to the people of Afghanistan to join them in the ongoing fighting against the Taliban.

The Northern Alliance commander also appealed to the international community to not recognise the Taliban's government as they attacked Panjshir and killed innocents. The Northern Alliance also outlined that the Taliban is working only for the betterment of Pakistan. The last group fighting against the Taliban also sought aid from the international community as women and children in Panjshir are starving after the Taliban has cut the supplies to the area.

(Image- Republic World)

Pakistan Air Force aiding Taliban

Earlier, the National Resistance Force had alleged that it was a Pakistani chopper that bombed Northern Alliance Spokesperson Fahim Dashty. Confirming Pakistan's role in the Taliban's growing offensive in Panjshir, the NRF claimed that Fahim Dashty was bombed by a Pakistani Air Force chopper while he was on his way back home.

Amid intense fighting between the resistance forces and the Taliban, Republic Media Network had on Monday accessed visuals showing Pakistani helicopters and commandos aiding the Taliban to attack the Panjshir. The visuals showed Taliban fighters and Pakistan's forces taking control of the choppers.

In addition, Pakistan's ISI has also supported the Taliban as fighting intensifies in the Panjshir Valley. Earlier, the Taliban claimed to 'completely capture' Panjshir. Taking to Twitter, Taliban Spokesperson Zabihullah claimed that, "Panjshir province, the last stronghold of the mercenary enemy, was completely conquered."

(Image Credits: AP/Republic World)
Days after the Taliban announced its new caretaker government, a Washington based think tank has said that the appointment of Sirajuddin Haqqani as Interior Minister of Afghanistan is a tight slap on the US. Sirajuddin Haqqani is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani, who founded the infamous terrorist organisation- Haqqani Network. He is also a wanted criminal by the FBI with links to 9/11 and multiple cross border attacks in the US and Afghanistan. In addendum, the 48-year-old was also allegedly involved in the planning of the assassination attempt on Afghan President Hamid Karzai in 2008.

In an op-ed published by Wall Street Journal, Seth G. Jones reckoned that with the appointment, the global terrorist has been uplifted to be equivalent to director of the FBI. Furthermore, he highlighted that the newly appointed Afghan minister had American blood on his hands and was a threat to US national security. Notably, Sirajuddin was enlisted by the FBI in January 2008 after it was proven that he was involved in an explosion that killed six people, including 1 US citizen in Kabul.

Haqqani was well known to the US military and intelligence community, he escaped several attempts to target him. He is a wily and dangerous enemy with American blood on his hands.

Haqqani Network gains ground in Afghanistan

The Haqqani network, one of the most radical branches of Islamic terrorism began to gain its ground after the Taliban's hostile takeover of Afghanistan last month. The network is often accused of facilitating deadly attacks on Afghan civilians by providing the ISIS-K with technical assistance and access to criminal networks in Kabul. FBI website also states that Haqqani is thought to be staying in Pakistan, specifically the Miram Shah, North Waziristan area, and maintains close ties to the Taliban and al Qaeda.

The Taliban has announced the government of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan on Tuesday evening. The new regime will be led by Mullah Mohammad Hasan Akhund, the head of the Taliban's powerful decision-making body and Taliban co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar will be his deputy. Haqqani's appointment as the acting Interior Minister of Afghanistan comes just days after the USA claimed that the Taliban and Haqqani Network were separate entities.

Image: AP/PTI
Ramstein Air Base (Germany), Sep 8 (AP) The US and Germany on Wednesday stepped up pressure on Iran to return soon to talks on its nuclear program, with Germany's foreign minister saying that a delay of two or three months floated by Tehran is too long.

The remaining parties to the 2015 accord with world powers meant to contain Iran's nuclear program held several rounds of talks in Vienna earlier this year on how to bring the US back into the deal and how Iran can return to compliance with its terms.

But the last round ended in June and no date has been set for their resumption. Last week, new Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said the other party understands that it takes two to three months for the new administration to establish and do planning for any sort of decision. German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said after meeting US Secretary of State Antony Blinken that that isn't good enough.

He said he told Amirabdollahian last week that two or three months is a time frame that is much too long for us and called for a quicker return.

The US unilaterally pulled out of the nuclear deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, in 2018 under then-President Donald Trump.

Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia have tried to preserve the accord, and President Joe Biden has said he is open to rejoining the pact.

Asked whether the delay suggested by Iran is too long for a return to the accord as it stands to be possible, Blinken said: I'm not going to put a date on it, but we are getting closer to the point at which a strict return to the compliance with the (nuclear deal) does not reproduce the benefits that that agreement achieved. We've been very clear that the ability to rejoin the (deal), return to mutual compliance, is not indefinite, he added.

After the US withdrawal, Iran embarked on a strategy of deliberately violating the deal. That is seen as an attempt to pressure Europe to give Iran incentives to offset the crippling American sanctions re-imposed after the US pullout.

On Tuesday, the UN nuclear watchdog said Iran has continued to increase its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in contravention of the accord. The International Atomic Energy Agency also told member states in its quarterly report that its verification and monitoring activities have been seriously undermined since February by Iran's refusal to let inspectors access IAEA monitoring equipment.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned Wednesday that a nonconstructive attitude by the UN's nuclear watchdog could damage the nuclear talks.

The Iranian government's website quoted Raisi as saying that Iran has cooperated with the IAEA, indicating Tehran's willingness to be transparent in its nuclear activities. It is natural that in the case of a nonconstructive (attitude) in the agency, it is not logical to expect Iran to have a constructive reaction," he said. (AP) RUP

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The Deputy Minister of Public Health of Chile, Paula Daza, announced on Wednesday that the Chilean government would start its COVID-19 vaccine campaign from next week, targeting teenagers aged 14 to 17, and kids aged 6 to 11 with underlying medical conditions. As per ANI, Daza informed, Between Monday, Sept. 13 and Thursday, Sept. 16, all adolescents between 14 and 17 years of age can be vaccinated at the Cesfams (Family Health Community Centers) ... as well as minors between 6 and 11 years of age with specific comorbidities." Daza believes that this initiative is crucial as it will protect teenagers as well as children.

On Monday, The Institute of Public Health of Chile sanctioned the emergency usage of the CoronaVac vaccine, manufactured by Chinese pharmaceutical firm Sinovac, for children and teenagers aged between 6 to 17 to battle against the coronavirus disease. Children aged 12 and above in Chile were being inoculated for COVID-19 illness with the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination before the announcement.

As per the Associated Press, The Sinovac- CoronaVac vaccine consequences on 4,000 children aged 3 to 17 are now being studied by the Catholic University of Chile. According to the director of Chile's Public Health Institute, Heriberto Garcia stated that the researchers from Public Health Institute concluded their opinion depending on the study of information provided by the Sinovac facility and information released in medical publications.

Some of the few nations in Latin America have authorised the Pfizer vaccine for youngsters aged 12 and over. on the other hand, Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccinations for children aged 3 to 17 have been approved in China. As per AP, Pfizer vaccination is approved for children aged 12 in the United States, Canada, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

COVID cases in Chile

As per the most recent statistics from the Ministry of Health, approximately 13,207,294 persons in Chile have already been immunised against COVID-19 with both vaccine shots or a single dose, accounting for 86.89 percent of the vaccine targeted population of 15.2 million people. Almost 26,419,036 dosages of COVID-19 vaccinations, mostly CoronaVac, have been given in the country. Due to the social distancing strategies and a continuing vaccination effort, Chile has recorded the lowest instances of new daily COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. Nearly 355 new cases have been recorded in the last 24 hours throughout the nation.

Image: Shutterstock/ Representative Image
After more than a year of negotiations with Pfizer Laboratories, a first shipment of 100,620 COVID-19 vaccines arrived in Argentina on Wednesday as part of a deal with the US lab for 20 million doses scheduled for 2021.

Pfizer's vaccines, developed in collaboration with German biotech company BioNTech, were shipped on an American Airlines flight that arrived at Ezeiza International Airport in the afternoon.

Argentine Health Minister Carla Vizzotti received the shipment along with representatives of the US embassy in Buenos Aires and the laboratory.

The vaccines will be distributed from Monday to "adolescents without comorbidities, from the age of 17", Vizzotti said at a press conference.

The arrival of the vaccines comes after months of political controversy in Argentina and governmental disputes with Pfizer that were finally overcome after the government made changes to a legislation that the US company resisted.

Argentina's health agency approved the use of Pfizer's vaccine in December 2020 after Argentina hosted one of the largest phase 3 clinical trials to confirm its effectiveness.

But the first inoculant to be applied was Sputnik V, which was questioned by the opposition who claimed that the government had prioritised the Russian vaccine for geopolitical reasons.

Pfizer, for its part, admitted that the negotiation had been hampered by the article of a local vaccine law that, as it was written, could lead to lawsuits.

Finally, an agreement was reached in July when President Alberto Fernandez signed a decree that modified those regulations.

580,000 doses are expected to arrive in September and the remaining agreed doses over the rest of the year.

Some 28.5 million people have been vaccinated so far in Argentina with one dose and 17.1 million with two, out of a population of about 45 million.

Since the start of the pandemic, more than 5.2 million cases of the new coronavirus have been registered and more than 112,800 deaths.

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The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson has described the number of unvaccinated persons admitted to hospitals with the Coronavirus disease as "concerning." He claimed that three-quarters of those who are admitted to hospitals had not received a Covid vaccine shot, and a greater percentage of the younger individuals are now afflicted.

Though the removal of most COVID limitations in July appeared to be working, the prime minister cautioned that there was still a possibility of danger because infection levels stayed high in the UK. Again, for the ninth day straight, the UK has recorded over 30,000 new instances. Yet, Covid-related hospitalisations are also on the rise. From the previous month, it is presently at 7,907, up from 5,697.

More about the UK unvaccinated hospital patients

The Prime Minister informed the BBC from Londons St Thomas Hospital that the choice to continue with the COVID defend strategy seems to be working. He further expressed his concern by stating that 75% of the individuals who are infected with Covid are still unvaccinated in St Thomas' Hospital. Nearly, four among every five persons from the age 16 and up have had two vaccination doses, while roughly 89% have received only one.

The Prime minister also informed that currently the coronavirus disease is increasing in the younger individuals and advising those who have not been vaccinated to do so. UK government is now pursuing individuals who are in the need of immunisation for themselves and their family members.

According to BBC, the recent wave of the COVID-19 outbreaks can be considered as a steady development of pressure rather than a dramatic spike from the prior waves. However, millions of individuals are in danger since one in five adults is still unvaccinated. As per the Prime Minister, this is creating a strain on hospitals. Now, although about 7% of hospital beds are filled by Covid victims, yet, if that number continues to rise and it further combines with the recurrence of common winter illnesses, hospitals may be forced to limit other forms of care much more and look into these matters.

Decision on Covid booster vaccine campaign in the UK

The vaccines authority of the UK is set to make a decision on a Covid booster vaccine campaign on Thursday, with officials optimistic that immunizations for 12- to 15-year-olds would be approved soon after. According to the Guardian report, The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) will gather on Thursday to discuss intermediate findings from the Cov-Boost trial, which examines the effects of adding a third dosage of one of seven vaccinations to either the Pfizer or AstraZeneca shots.

(Image Credit: ANI/ AP)
On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken pressed Iran to resume talks on its nuclear program citing the lack of time to rearrange the nuclear agreement. In a joint press conference with Germany's foreign minister Heiko Mass, the US Secretary said that delay in talks would fail to reproduce benefits of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) revival, reported Sputnik. It further reported that since April, the United States and Iran have held six rounds of indirect negotiations in an attempt to re-establish the JCPOA, also know as the nuclear deal. The negotiations failed to achieve the desired result and the process further stalled since new Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi took over last months, according to the international news agency.

It should be noted here that last week, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said that other parties should understand that it takes at least two to three months for a new administration to settle down before taking any decision, reported The Associated Press (AP). Meanwhile, speaking at the press conference, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas noted that a delay of two or three months floated by Tehran is not good enough and termed it too long for the program. Despite the IAEA reports nothing that Iran had been complying with its nuclear obligations, the US had unilaterally pulled out of the nuclear deal and reimposed several strict economic sanctions in 2018 under the then President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia have tried to preserve the accord, and US President Joe Biden has shown his interest in rejoining the pact.

'Iran continues to increase its stockpile of uranium'

"I am not going to put a date on it, but we are getting closer to the point at which a strict return to the compliance with the (nuclear deal) does not reproduce the benefits that that agreement achieved," Blinken said when asked whether the delay suggested by Iran is too long for a return to the accord, as reported by the news agency. He further added that the US hopes that ability to rejoin the deal and return to mutual compliance is not indefinite. It is worth mentioning here that on Tuesday, September 7, the International Atomic Energy Agency said that Iran has continued to increase its stockpile of uranium in what could be termed as a violation of the accord. Meanwhile, retaliating to this, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned that a "nonconstructive attitude" by the UN's nuclear watchdog could harm the nuclear talks, reported the news agency.

(With agency inputs)

(Image: AP)
As the Delta variation of COVID-19 topples over the Unites States, doctors expressed their concern on the significant increase in the number of children getting badly affected by the infection, amid the reopening of schools. As per CNN, the associate professor of pediatrics at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez stated that the scenario is worrying. He further stated that this virus is mostly targeting those who have not been immunised in which those adolescents, as well as children who were not eligible for the vaccination, are getting affected.

According to statistics from the US Department of Health and Human Services, a total number of 2,396 children were hospitalised with COVID-19 disease as of Tuesday, September 7. While the data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggest that an average of 369 pediatric COVID-19 cases were hospitalised per day by the end of September 6.

The CDC report also implies that over 55,000 youngsters have been hospitalised with Covid-19 through August 2020, who had no prior medical history. Though the fatalities related to the infections are still not rampant, yet, approximately 520 children had died due to COVID-19 as of Wednesday.

More about the children hospitalised due to COVID-19

From the previous school year, the Alpha variant of the COVID-19 has been overtaken by the Delta variant which is an even more contagious version as well as the most prevalent in the United States. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Children cases related to COVID-19 have grown rapidly, with more than 750,000 instances reported between August 5 and September 2. Around 252,000 new incidents were identified during the last week which is considered to be the highest in a single week after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Further, as per the CDC statistics from nearly 100 US districts, nearly half of children hospitalised with Covid-19 disease had no known existing illness during March 2020 and June 2021.

As the schools have opened in several parts of the US, the CDC further suggests that children from kindergarten through grade 12, as well as teachers and visitors, will have to wear masks at school to avoid the extremely infectious Delta strain affecting the nation. Even the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that everyone above the age of two should wear a mask at school. On the other hand, as per CNN, nearly thousands of kids across Mississippi and Florida have already been quarantined before the school year begins.

(Image: AP)
Cases of coronavirus across the twin continents of the Americas have soared to almost double as compared to last year, according to Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). Triggered by the highly transmissible Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2, nearly 1.5 million new cases with more than 22,000 fatalities were reported last week across both continents. Addressing media reporters on Wednesday, PAHO Director Carissa Etienne blamed rising infections on vaccine nationalism and stockpiling.

Substantiating her claim, Etienne disclosed that only 28 per cent of residents in Latin America and the Caribbean have been fully vaccinated so far. Reasoning that it was largely due to limited supplies, she called for vaccine equality. The health official, furthermore, said that the "inequality was unacceptable" and highlighted that while rich countries like Canada and Chile have inoculated a majority of their population, there are countries in the south, which have not yet been able to vaccinate even 20 per cent of residents.

'Limited Supplies'

While we should celebrate that Canada, Chile, and Uruguay have fully over two-thirds of their populations, Etienne said, We cannot forget that one-fourth of countries in our region have yet to vaccinate 20 percent of their people  and in some places, coverage is much lower. She disclaosed that Guatemala and Nicaragua have not reached the 10 percent mark in vaccinations, while less than 1 percent of Haitis population is vaccinated.

Vaccination  campaigns continue to move forward despite limited supplies. So far, just 28 percent of people in Latin America and the Caribbean have been fully vaccinated.



 But these numbers vary significantly depending on where you look. @DirOPSPAHO #COVID19  PAHO/WHO (@pahowho) September 8, 2021

At least 40% of the countries in our region  have reported disruptions to maternal and newborn care   and these disruptions have become more widespread during this second year of the pandemic @DirOPSPAHO #COVID19  PAHO/WHO (@pahowho) September 8, 2021

Notably, the US, despite its "more than enough" supply of vaccines, is facing a dramatic surge in coronavirus caseload. The countrywide caseload reached 40,280,094 with 4,224,866 cases registered in just the past 28 days. Meanwhile, deaths also soared to 650,532, out of which 32,563 were reported in the past 28 days. Notably, two main causes of the infection surge are -- the highly transmissible Delta variant and the misinformation against vaccination.

The figure from Johns Hopkins University represents the total number of reported COVID positive infections, though health officials believe the actual number is far higher, according to a report by Fox News. While America witnessed a decline in caseload and hospitalisations earlier in spring, summer is witnessing an unprecedented crisis. Meanwhile, health officials have administered a total of 374,665,992 vaccine doses. It is imperative to note that some states like Mississippi are still battered by the inoculation crisis, pertaining to increased misinformation and reduction in medical staff.

Image: AP
US Secretary of Defence Llyod Austin III, Wednesday, met Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah and thanked him for aiding the US airlift operations from Afghanistan. On 30 August, the Pentagon concluded its evacuation process, airlifting more than 1,30,000 people from the Taliban captured Afghanistan and ending a 20-year long war which Biden said was not in the US national interest. Notably, the Persian Gulf countries played a pivotal role in the repatriation process, providing their transit services to the US and allied aircraft.

Taking to Twitter, the US Defence Chief reiterated his gratitude towards Kuwait thanking Al Sabah for providing its crucial support in facilitating safe transit of US citizens and Afghans. Additionally, Austin also asserted that Kuwaits gesture has reaffirmed the bilateral ties between both countries. It is worth mentioning that in 1991, US and coalition forces waged a war against Saddam Hussain led Iraq after it annexed Kuwait. Both the countries have been close allies.

I just met w/ the Kuwaiti Prime Minister, Minister of Defense & Minister of Interior to thank Kuwait for its crucial support in facilitating the safe transit of US citizens and evacuees from Afghanistan, and reaffirmed our bilateral strategic partnership. https://t.co/Fs5on4aTCv  Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) September 8, 2021

"The leaders also exchanged views on regional challenges and recommendations for advancing regional security and stability. Secretary Austin thanked the Prime Minister and the Defense Minister for their leadership in encouraging dialogue and advancing processes that de-escalate tensions in the region," Pentagon said in a statement.

Austin met US service members

Meanwhile, the Secretary also had the opportunity to meet with US service members to "thank them for their efforts in support of Operation ALLIES REFUGE". His engagements included a meeting with members of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, based in Kuwait, according to a press release. Last week, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and thanked him for his nations effort to assist with the safe transit of people from Afghanistan.

The US Defence Secretary on Sunday, 5 September commenced his travel to the Gulf nations to meet regional partners to express his gratitude for their cooperation in Washingtons evacuation process in Afghanistan. Addressing media reporters earlier, Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby disclosed that Austin would travel to four Gulf states including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the kingdom of the Persian Gulf.

Image: AP
The government also temporarily suspends approvals for new video games coming to market.

People walk past the Tencent booth at an international trade services fair in Beijing, Sept. 6, 2020.

China's propaganda ministry and media regulators on Thursday hauled in representatives of Tencent, NetEase, and other technology giants, ordering them to fully implement recent restrictions on online gaming for underage players.

The meetings sparked sharp falls in technology share prices. The Hang Seng index fell by 2.3 percent at Thursday's close to 25,716.00, the biggest one-day percentage drop since July 27, while the China Enterprises Index lost 2.8 percent.

The heads of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s central propaganda department and the General Administration of Press and Publications (GAPP) told the companies they would be expected to comply fully with a slew of recent regulations on the technology sector, including the minor gaming ban during weekdays and restrictions on "obscenity," "gore," "terror," "feminized men," and "overblown aesthetics" in game content.

"All gaming companies have to strictly enforce the orders of the notice and thoroughly implement the play-time restrictions on minors when they are providing online games to them," the departments said in a statement carried by state news agency Xinhua.

"Obscene and violent content and those breeding unhealthy tendencies, such as money-worship and effeminacy, should be removed," it said.

Meanwhile, Reuters reported that China has temporarily suspended approval for all new online games, in a decision revealed at a meeting with Tencent and NetEase.

Tencent declined to comment. NetEase did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment, the agency reported.

The government banned under-18s in August from playing more than three hours' of online video games in any week, limiting their sessions to Fridays, weekends, and vacation days, in a bid to fight back against gaming addiction, which the CCP views as "spiritual opium."

Current affairs commentator Bi Xin said it was unprecedented for the CCP's central propaganda department to get involved in the content of video games.

"Any department in China can call in any company for a meeting, but the levels of seniority are getting higher and higher," Bi said. "The fact that the central propaganda department did this means it's a matter of ideology."

Asserting full control

A scholar from the northern Chinese city of Taiyuan surnamed Ren said the CCP won't stop at gaming, but will eventually assert full control over all sectors of the economy.

"They have already started the rectification of various sectors with these meetings, which is to say that they are tightening [government] control of every industry," Ren said.

"Ride-sharing apps are one example; the government has rectified them to strengthen control and place restrictions on market participants," he said.

Online gamer Song Shiwen said the gaming restrictions will also likely be enforced by government officials at grassroots level, in a reference to residential community committees and neighborhood committees across China.

"Once the central government has made an order like that, it doesn't necessarily have to follow up with policies or crackdowns ... it means departments lower down [the hierarchy] have to do it," Song said.

"That means governments in every city and province will have to step up enforcement."

Chinese regulators have ordered several tech giants to "rectify" their business models amid an ongoing crackdown on the private technology sector.

Officials from the Ministry of Transport, the Cyberspace Administration of China, and the State Administration of Market Supervision, met with managers from ride-sharing app Didi Chuxing, the food delivery app Meituan, and nine other transportation and travel firms on Sept. 1 and ordered them to clean up their act.

They were warned not to use "vicious" competition or disorderly expansion or to pass on operation risks to gig-economy workers like drivers.

Crackdown on private companies

The moves come amid an ongoing crackdown on large, privately owned technology companies, and as ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) general secretary Xi Jinping starts to implement measures aimed at achieving "common prosperity," or moderate wealth for all.

There are also growing indicators that the government is also moving towards nationalization of user data and services.

A new data security law that took effect on Sept. 1 lays down strict regulations about what technology platforms must do with data entrusted to service providers by hundreds of millions of users.

Meanwhile, a personal information protection law aimed at setting controls on companies' use of user data will likely take effect in November 2021.

The State Administration of Market Regulation (SAMR) said on Aug. 30 that it would regulate the sharing economy, a sector that includes companies facilitating ride-sharing, bike-sharing, home sharing, and even the pooling of battery packs for phones.

And the CCP is pushing tech giants to invest in a state-owned "cloud" storage platform, in a direct, and nationalized, challenge to tech giants Alibaba, Huawei, and Tencent.

Companies owned by the Tianjin municipal government have been ordered to migrate their data away from commercial cloud service providers to the state-owned alternative, Reuters reported recently.

At the same time, the government is tightening supervision of algorithms used to send tailor-made data, content, and advertising to users, banning algorithms that are designed to make users spend large amounts of money, or "disrupt public order."



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Police haul away exhibits and boxes of materials after the organizers of a candlelight vigil refuse to comply with a request for evidence.

A National Security Department police officer takes away a sign from Hong Kong's June 4th Museum dedicated to the victims of the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre in Beijing, Sept. 9, 2021.

UPDATED: 02:35 p.m. EST on 2021/09/09

Hong Kong's national security police on Thursday charged the organizers of a now-banned candlelight vigil commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen massacre with "subversion," following a raid on a museum they founded to preserve historical records of the bloodshed.

The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, its former leaders Lee Cheuk-yan and Albert Ho, and current vice chair Chow Hang-tung have been charged with "incitement to subvert state power."

Chow and four other Alliance members have also been charged with "failing to comply with a notice to provide information" under Article 43 of the national security law.

The charges came as national security police in Hong Kong searched the premises of a long-closed museum commemorating the June 4, 1989 Tiananmen massacre on Thursday, carrying away boxes and exhibits.

Police raided the June 4th Memorial Hall in Mong Kok, which was founded by members of the Alliance.

Footage of the raid posted to Twitter showed police officers carrying out parts of exhibits and display, including cartoon cutouts of late democracy activist and Alliance founder Szeto Wah and late ousted Chinese premier Zhao Ziyang.

The Memorial Hall was shuttered in June after police said it was operating without the necessary licenses.

The raid came after Alliance vice chair Chow Hang-tung and three other key members of the Alliance were reportedly arrested on Wednesday, after refusing to comply with a demand for detailed information on the group's membership, funding sources, and activities in recent years, made under Article 43 of the national security law.

Police later confirmed that they had arrested three men and one woman, aged between 36 and 57, on suspicion of failing to comply with the draconian law that was imposed on Hong Kong by the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from July 1, 2020.

Former Alliance vice chairman Richard Choi said police had changed the locks and left the premises locked.

"The CCTV at the Memorial Hall entrance at least has been taken away, which suggests that it has been removed from inside the museum as well," Choi told reporters after the raid.

"We think the police also removed the locks and installed new ones."

"Anyone from the Alliance wanting to get inside has to call a police telephone number posted at the the entrance," he said.

A historical archive

He said the museum had been a repository of historical materials, books, publications, and leaflets from the time of the 1989 pro-democracy movement in China, and the subsequent bloodshed by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) that ended weeks of student-led protests on Tiananmen Square.

"It is all historical archive, some of which are originals," Choi said. "It's very hard to assess their value, but given that they are so old, they are very easily damaged."

Veteran Chinese journalist Chang Ping said it was "absurd" that the police had described the Alliance as a "foreign agent."

"The fact that they are shutting down organizations like this shows that the CCP doesn't really care about the true meaning of the slogans it uses," Chang said.

"[It thinks] such groups pose a threat to the regime."

He said all of the rights violations against the people of mainland China during the past seven decades would now be visited on Hong Kong "in condensed form."

"That is the future that Beijing has in mind for Hong Kong," Chang said. "In future, even staying silent may not be enough for Hong Kong people [to protect themselves]."

"Totalitarian politics requires that you live the lie in full."



Twelve plead guilty

Meanwhile, 12 people pleaded guilty in the District Court on Thursday to charges related to "illegal assembly" in connection with a 2020 gathering to mark the June 4 massacre in Victoria Park.

Former opposition lawmakers Albert Ho, Andrew Wan, Cheung Man-kwong, Leung Kwok-Hung, Cyd Ho, Eddie Chu, and Yeung Sum, and democracy activists Figo Chan, Steven Kwok, Chiu Yan-long, Mak Hoi-wah, and Leung Kwok-wah all pleaded guilty.

Jailed pro-democracy media mogul Jimmy Lai and Chow Hang-tung had earlier told the court that they would not plead guilty, and will stand trial on Nov. 1.

Ho told the court that the group were motivated by their consciences and moral commitment to keep up the tradition of mourning June 4, to remember the lessons of history and speak truth to power, government broadcaster RTHK reported.

Four activists, including 2014 student leader Joshua Wong, are serving sentences of between four and 10 months imprisonment after pleading guilty to similar charges in connection with the vigil.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
Veterans of the Tiananmen massacre and mainland Chinese pro-democracy activists say Hong Kong's Alliance is worthy of 'great respect.'

Richard Choi, a standing committee member of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Democratic Movements in China, speaks to reporters after national security police raid Hong Kong's June 4 Museum, Sept. 9, 2021.

Mainland Chinese democracy activists and relatives of victims of the 1989 Tiananmen massacre have paid tribute to the organizers of a now-banned candlelight vigil marking the June 4, 1989 crackdown, as Hong Kong national security police charged three of them with "subversion."

The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China's former leaders Lee Cheuk-yan and Albert Ho and current vice chair Chow Hang-tung have been charged with "incitement to subvert state power."

Chow and four other Alliance members have also been charged with "failing to comply with a notice to provide information" under Article 43 of the national security law.

The June 4 Memorial Hall, a museum dedicated to preserving a historic record of the Tiananmen massacre, was also raided by national security police, who took away a van-load of exhibits and boxes of materials on Thursday.

Zhang Xianling, a member of the Tiananmen Mothers' victims group who donated some items to the museum, said police were possibly trying to wipe out collective memories of the Tiananmen massacre and 1989 democracy movement.

"What happened on June 4, 1989 took place in broad daylight," Zhang said. "The government brought in regular troops to kill innocent civilians, which was a crime."

"Are they now trying to cover up what happened by confiscating these things? That's not actually possible," she said. ""Nobody who lived through that will forget the June 4, 1989 massacre."

Tiananmen Mothers spokeswoman You Weijie said she couldn't see how the museum could have violated Hong Kong's national security law.

"Those relics from the young people [who died] were donated by their relatives to the June 4 Memorial Hall in Hong Kong," You said.

"We did this so the younger generation and the whole world would remember the Tiananmen massacre forever."

Keeping memories alive

Former 1989 student leader Li Hengqing said the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP) had become extremely worried it would "lose" Hong Kong following the mass protests, civil disobedience, and barricade battles with riot police during the 2019 protest movement.

Li said the Alliance had allowed memories of the 1989 pro-democracy movement to live on in Hong Kong for decades.

"The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China was founded in 1989, during the 1989 pro-democracy movement," Li told RFA.

"In the 30 years that followed, the Alliance ... ran a memorial event for the June 4 massacre victims every year in Victoria Park."

"This sort of event isn't tolerated by the CCP regime," he said.

"Now, under the Hong Kong version of the national security law, they have arrested and imprisoned many of the [leading members] of the Alliance," he said.

"We strongly protest against the charges of incitement to subvert state power brought against Lee Cheuk-yan, Albert Ho, and Chow Hang-tung," Li said.

"As someone who took part in the 1989 movement, I would like to pay tribute to all of our friends and compatriots in Hong Kong who have supported the Chinese democracy movement."

"We stand with the people of Hong Kong."

A thorn in Xi's side

U.S.-based exiled dissident Wang Juntao said it is clear that the CCP intends to take away any remaining freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong's seven million people.

"[CCP general secretary] Xi Jinping doesn't want to allow people of Hong Kong to have freedom any more," Wang told RFA. "The CCP has already enacted this draconian law, making behavior that was once legal, illegal."

"Hong Kong has been a thorn in his side since he started bringing back many of the practices of the Mao Zedong era in mainland China, because people in Hong Kong can question that approach," he said.

Wang said Hong Kong was a relatively safe place in the Mao era, from where people could criticize what was happening in China.

"Today, we can see that Xi Jinping won't let people do this again, so at this point, he is even worse than Mao," Wang said. "These Hong Kong comrades have paid this price for the principles they believe in, and to spread the ideals they believe in."

"They are worthy of great respect, but I also feel a kind of anger and sadness at the dark times and backwards steps that we are seeing in Hong Kong," he said.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
China is facing a population crisis of increasing urgency, with 149 cities shown in recent census figures to have 14 percent of their residents over the age of 65.



A recent analysis by the state-run China Business News (CBN) found that 149 cities in China have now entered "deep aging," the middle state on a spectrum that runs from aging, where more than seven percent are over 65, to super-aging, when more than 20 percent is over that age.



The fastest-aging cities are mostly clustered around the Yangtze River, the southwestern cities of Chongqing and Chengdu, and the urban industrial northeast, the report said.



Seven provinces have 10 or more deep-aging cities, CBN said, with Sichuan at the top of the table, closely followed by Shandong.



Similar situations were found to exist in Hunan, Anhui, and Hubei in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, with 12 cities in Hunan and Anhui experiencing deep aging, and nine in Hubei.



Coastal regions had a bigger influx of younger people from elsewhere, and so their aging rate was comparatively low, CBN said.



Yi Fuxian, a senior researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an expert on Chinese population issues, has been tracking population changes in China for some time, and regards official statistics as highly dubious.



"The real rate of aging in China is much more serious than current announcements suggest," Yi told RFA.



"But even the current published figures are very serious," he said. "The first thing is it is causing a slowdown in economic growth."



An elderly man is reflected in a rearview mirror of a electric tricycle as he plays a saxophone in a booth for people to rest along a road in Beijing, Aug. 22, 2021. Credit: AFP Japan-style slowdown seen

Yi said he predicted the slowdown in economic growth in China from 2012.



"Economic growth averaged 10 percent prior to 2011, and by 2019, it was only six percent," Yi said. "China's demographic structure is about where Japan's was in 1992."



"By 2035, it will be roughly where's Japan's population structure was in 2018."



Yi predicted economic growth of around one percent in China for 2035.



He said that people's consumption patterns become more conservative with age, and the lack of access to universal pensions, debt crises among local governments and a likely burst real estate bubble would make life much tougher.



According to Yi, the current situation in northeastern China will gradually become apparent across the whole of China.



Wen Guanzhong, professor emeritus of the Department of Economics at Trinity College in the United States, agreed.



"Relying on cheap labor, producing labor-intensive products, and exporting a large number of products will no longer be possible," Wen told RFA.



"An upgrade [of industrial activity] will be needed, but it needs to be a technological upgrade," he said. "Now that China has broken off [economic] ties with some developed countries, it will find it harder to source technology and innovate independently."



Stifling innovation

Wen said the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP)'s insistence on controlling all forms of dissent, and inserting its political ideology into every area of activity would make this still harder.



"The CCP system isn't conducive to independent innovation," he said. "They emphasize unity, synchronization and obedience when it comes to people's thinking."



He said changes to the "hukou" household registration system that limit where most of the population can live, access healthcare and raise children would make an upgrade easier.



"A truly modern country only needs a few million agricultural laborers," Wen said. "They won't be able to support hundreds of millions of rural residents like they do right now; there will have to be a new division of labor."



The CCP unveiled new plans at the end of to boost flagging birth rates and reverse population aging, raising the official limit on the number of children per couple from two to three.



The change came five years after the CCP scrapped a historic policy limiting most couples to just one child, which gave rise to decades of human rights abuses, including forced late-term abortions and sterilizations, as well as widespread monitoring of women's fertility by officials.



The CCP Politburo concluded on , 2021 that "education and guidance should be provided to promote marriage and family values among marriage-age young people," adding that tax and housing incentives would also be in the pipeline for couples wanting to have children.



Among the support measures planned by the government include improvements to prenatal and postnatal care, a universal childcare service, and reduced education costs for families.



The government has since issued a ban on after-school and vacation tutoring, in a bid to reduce the financial burden of a child's education on parents.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
The retired parents of a Uyghur activist living in Australia have been in state custody since mid-2018, RFA has learned from sources inside northwestern Chinas Xinjiang region.

Activist Shamsiye Hajibeg is the wife of Nurmemet Abdulmijit Turkistani, president of the East Turkestan Australian Association, a Uyghur advocacy group. It is believed that authorities in Xinjiang have placed dozens of members of Nurmemets family into camps, though little detailed information is known about their fate.

Over the past four years, Shamsiye, also a member of the advocacy group, has been unable to get information about 14 of her immediate relatives, including her parents Kamil Abaydulla and Aygul Haji; grandmother Tajinisa Haji; older brothers Zulfikar Kamil and Halmurat Kamil; younger brother Dilmurat Kamil; and her brothers wives.

Shamsiyes contact with her parents began to fall off in early 2017, she told RFA. After she lost contact, she was able to confirm on several occasions through acquaintances that her parents were alive and on the outside, meaning that they had not been confined in one of Xinjiangs internment camps.

Since early 2017, Chinese authorities have detained an estimated 1.8 million Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) in political reeducation camps under a program Beijing describes as vocational training to combat extremism.

The relatives of Uyghurs living abroad who are active in rights or advocacy groups are among those who have come under pressure from authorities or have been forced against their will into detention.

Like many other members of the Uyghur diaspora, Shamsiye had assumed that her parents and siblings were avoiding contact with her out of caution and did not seek them out lest she cause them trouble. But after her brothers and sisters-in-law stopped sharing posts to WeChat, she came to believe that they had been taken into some form of state detention.

By mid-2018, Shamsiye had lost complete contact with her 67-year-old father, Kamil Abaydulla, a former employee of the water bureau in Atush (in Chinese, Atushi), and her mother, Aygul Haji, a retired employee of the citys Agricultural Bank of China.

They retired relatively early and ventured into international business in Central Asia for a period, followed by land development in Atush, Shamsiye said.

I called again and again, and [my mother] picked up once, Shamsiye said. She said they were doing well. I asked her if she could, at the very least, call me so that I could hear her voice.

But her mother told her not to call and to stop looking for her parents, then abruptly hung up, she said.

And just like that, that was the last time I had a voice call with my mother, the activist said, adding that whenever she tries to contact her parents by phone now, a message says that their phone number does not exist. When she calls her fathers cell phone, a message says that his mobile unit is powered off.

I see my family as one that is being oppressed and persecuted, just as hundreds of thousands of Uyghur families in East Turkestan are, she said, using the Uyghurs preferred name for Xinjiang.

Sent to a camp

Police officers who work at a neighborhood committee office in Atush where Shamsiyes parents lived told RFA that Kamil Abaydulla and his wife have been detained since mid-2018 and that the father has not been released since he was taken in by authorities.

When contacted by RFA, staffers at the water bureau and bank said they were unaware of any Kamil Abaydulla and Aygul Haji at their respective places of employment.

Chinese authorities blacklisted Shamsiye's relatives and placed them under routine surveillance for the past three decades because her grandfather, Abaydulla, served in the East Turkistan National Army from 1944 to 1949, and her uncle, Turghun Haji, a well-known businessperson, had been indicted for separatism in 1997, Shamsiye said.

RFA called relevant offices of the municipal police department in Atush, where the couple hold household registrations, to ask about their whereabouts. While most officials declined to answer most questions, one said that the couple had been detained two years ago.

The pair applied for passports on several occasions so they could travel abroad to see their children, but authorities rejected their applications, Shamsiye said.

RFA also contacted the public security bureau of Kizilsu Kyrghyz Autonomous Prefecture, where Atush is located, to ask whether the couple had been indicted and sentenced to prison terms.

One police official told RFA that an ethnic Kyrgyz policeman named Shungqar had handled their case since January 2019. An official in another department at the bureau also said Shungqar was involved in the case.

Reported by Shohret Hoshur for RFAs Uyghur Service. Translated by the Uyghur Service. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin.
A legal expert explains that Articles 331 and 117 of the penal code are basically the same.

This photo illustration shows four of the five detained members of the Clean Newspaper, a Vietnamese-language Facebook-based news outlet.

UPDATED at 1:30 P.M. EDT on 2021-09-10

Authorities in Vietnam on Wednesday indicted five journalists from the Bao Sach (Clean Newspaper) Facebook-based news outlet on charges of abusing democracy and freedom to infringe on state interests, state media reported.

According to the indictment, issued by the Procuracy of Thoi Lai district, in the southern city of Can Tho, the Clean Newspaper staff posted anti-state and reactionary information and delved into information that was inappropriate, distorting, against the countrys interests, and slanderous of the peoples administration in violation of Article 331 of Vietnams Criminal Code.

The five indicted journalists are: Truong Chau Huu Danh, Nguyen Thanh Nha, Doan Kien Giang, Nguyen Phuong Trung Bao, and Le The Thang.

Thang has been released on bail and is barred from leaving his house while the others have been arrested and detained.

Danh, meanwhile, was also charged with posting stories that generated bad interactions between internet users in the cyber environment and propagandized, distorted, defamed and seriously slandered Party organizations and local Party committees."

State media reports also said the Clean Newspaper group was paid by businesses to write and publish favorable stories.

According to the indictment, the groups Facebook fan page, Facebook group, and YouTube channel were created in August 2019. Between the three platforms, the group had published 47 reports or videos dealing with hot-button social issues.

Article 331 and Article 117 of Vietnams Penal Code have been criticized by human rights lawyers and organizations as having been used as a tool to stifle dissenting voices.

Dang Dinh Manh, a Vietnam-based lawyer, told RFA on Wednesday that the two articles are essentially the same, despite differing text.

If you want to impose a lighter penalty, go with Article 331 and if you want a more serious one, go with Article 117, said Manh.

Article 117 imposes penalties for creating, storing, and disseminating information, documents, items, and publications opposing the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, while Article 331 prohibits abusing the rights to freedom and democracy to violate the interests of the state, the legitimate rights and interests of organizations and individuals.

Manh said an investigator told him during a meeting that prosecutors will choose which article they want to apply to a case depending on how severe they want the punishment to be.

In general, both articles are aimed at restricting peoples freedom of expression. These articles should not exist because they contradict Vietnams very constitution, which allows Vietnamese people to criticize the policies they deem as detrimental to the interests of the country and the people. What the Clean Newspaper group said should not be seen as anti-State, Manh said.

In its Freedom in the World 2021 report, Washington D.C.-based Freedom House gave Vietnam an overall score of 19 out of a possible 100, a one-point drop from last years rating. Vietnam scored three out of 40 in political rights, and 16 out of 60 in civil liberties.

Freedom of expression, religious freedom, and civil society activism are tightly restricted [and the] authorities have increasingly cracked down on citizens use of social media and the internet, Freedom House said.

Vietnams already low tolerance of dissent deteriorated sharply last year with a spate of arrests of independent journalists, publishers, and Facebook personalities as authorities continued to stifle critics in the run-up to the ruling Communist Party Congress in January. But arrests continue in 2021.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this report incorrectly stated that Le The Thang was still at large. He was arrested but released on bail and is barred from leaving his house.

Reported by RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Anna Vu. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
Russian President Vladimir Putin said Moscow would give hundreds of millions of dollars in additional loans to Minsk, and that he and his visiting Belarusian counterpart had agreed on a new unified natural-gas market.

But speaking to reporters after more than three hours of meetings in Moscow on September 9, Putin and Alyaksandr Lukashenka sidestepped the question of whether after more than 20 years of talks, they had finally agreed to fully create a "union state" -- a major step toward reunifying the two ex-Soviet republics' economies and political structures.

For his part, Lukashenka told reporters there was a "breakthrough" and that 28 separate "road maps" had been agreed to, after many years of negotiations.

But he said the overall package for the confederation might be adopted only by the end of October: "this will be a breakthrough, a breakthrough in many spheres."

In the run-up to Lukashenka's trip to Moscow, there was heightened speculation that the decades-old plan for a union state would finally come to fruition.

Last month, Belarus's ambassador in Russia said that all of the 28 road maps to finalize the agreement first agreed to in the late 1990s were ready and could be finalized at the Lukashenka-Putin summit.

Putin praised Belarus, saying the situation there had "stabilized" after months of political turmoil. He said Russia would provide Belarus with around $640 million in loans by the end of next year.

He said restrictions on air travel between Russia and Belarus would also be lifted, and that natural-gas prices for exports to Belarus would remain at 2021 levels -- a significant benefit for Minsk as current-year gas prices have spiked sharply.

Lukashenka praised Putin, in characteristically warm terms, but he also said the question of agreeing on a common currency with Russia was not on the agenda.

If it comes to fruition, the union state would potentially undermine Belaruss sovereignty, something Lukashenka has strenuously resisted for years.

At the same time, the Belarusian leader has been increasingly isolated since last years presidential election in which he claimed reelection to a sixth term.

The vote was condemned by Belaruss opposition as rigged and prompted months of street protests that Belarusian security forces have harshly cracked down on.

Earlier, in initial remarks with Putin ahead of their talks, Lukashenka said that Russians and Belarusians were one people.

We move, like all civilized countries, only together, only in a union; native states, close peoples, practically one people, both Russians and Belarusians come from the same roots, Lukashenka said.

Crisis In Belarus Read our ongoing coverage as Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka ramps up pressure on NGOs and independent media as part of a brutal crackdown against protesters and the opposition following an August 2020 election widely considered fraudulent.

Western governments have refused to recognize Lukashenka as a legitimate president and slapped his government with sanctions over the ongoing crackdown on the opposition, independent media, human rights groups, and civil society.



On the eve of Lukashenka's Moscow visit, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said Russian Sukhoi fighter jets had arrived in Belarus to help patrol its borders as part of a new joint military effort.

The ministry did not say how many jets arrived or give further details on their participation in monitoring the borders.



Tensions along Belarus's border with the European Union have risen in recent months with Brussels accusing Minsk of intentionally sending thousands of migrants into the bloc through Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.



The announcement of the border reinforcements came before thousands of Belarusian and Russian troops are set to kick off their joint Zapad-2021 military exercises.



The drills, which are conducted every two years on Russian and Belarusian territories, have raised concerns among NATO members in the past.



Up to 200,000 servicemen, about 80 planes and helicopters, 290 tanks, 240 artillery pieces, multiple rocket launchers, and mortars, as well as 15 ships will be involved this year's weeklong exercises, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.



Earlier this month, Lukashenka said Russia would soon deliver a huge military hardware consignment to Belarus, including aircraft, helicopters, and air-defense systems.
TBILISI -- Police in Tbilisi have detained a suspect in the murder of an Australian woman, Shanae Brooke Edwards, who went missing earlier this summer before her body was found in the Georgian capital.

Georgia's Interior Ministry said on September 8 that a 33-year-old resident of Tbilisi had been detained as a suspect in the case, adding that the decision to arrest the man was made as result of studies performed on DNA samples taken from the crime scene.

Local media identified the man as Rafael Mursakulov, a Georgian citizen.

Mursakulov's lawyer, Sofio Goglichidze, told RFE/RL on September 9 that she will have details on the case after she meets with her client as soon as he is transferred from police detention to a pretrial detention center.

Edwards, a 31-year-old English teacher, disappeared on July 30. After her friends raised concerns about her whereabouts, police started a search and found her body with signs of violence in Tbilisi's Mtatsminda park the next day.

The deputy chief of the Tbilisi city police, Kakha Muradashvili, told reporters on September 8 that a possible murder weapon, a knife, was found near the body.

The killing of the Australian woman caused a public outcry in the South Caucasus state.
News reports say German prosecutors have opened a formal investigation into a series of cyberattacks that have targeted German politicians -- attacks that the Foreign Ministry has blamed on Russia.

A spokesman for Germany's federal prosecutors told reporters on September 9 that the investigation had been opened "on suspicion of espionage."

The probe comes as the election campaign to choose a new German government heads into the homestretch. The parliamentary elections are scheduled for September 26, and none of the major parties have a decisive lead in the polls.

State security agencies have notified parliament at least three times this year about cyberattacks on lawmakers by foreign intelligence services.

On September 6, the Foreign Ministry said the government had "reliable information" that the attacks could be attributed to actors in Russia, "specifically to the Russian military intelligence service" known as the GRU.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Andrea Sasse said that a hacker outfit called Ghostwriter has been combining conventional cyberattacks with disinformation and influence operations.

She said the ministry had lodged a formal complaint with Russian authorities.

Germany has repeatedly accused Russia of cyberattacks in the past.

The highest-profile incident was a 2015 cyberattack that paralyzed the computer network of the lower house of parliament. German authorities blamed Russian military intelligence.

Germany's concerns about Russian interference have included scrutiny of the Russian state-funded broadcaster RT, whose online-only German-language service has emphasized divisive issues such as migration and coronavirus restrictions.

Based on reporting by AFP, dpa, and AP
Hungary's Justice Minister has called European Union authorities arrogant after its executive arm asked the EU's top court to impose financial penalties on Poland in a long-running dispute over judicial reforms that has helped strain relations between the bloc and Warsaw over the rule of law.

The Hungarian government condemned the malicious attacks by Brussels," Justice Minister Judit Varga said on her Facebook page late on September 8, two days after the European Commission, which acts as the guardian of the bloc's treaties, asked the European Court of Justice (ECJ) to impose financial penalties on Poland over a controversial judges chamber.

The EUs executive arm said on September 7 it made the request because Poland had not taken the necessary measures to comply fully with an earlier ECJ judgment concerning the chamber, which is devoted to disciplining judges.

The Polish government said three weeks ago it would dismantle the chamber, even though it meant backing off of one of its judiciary reforms that had helped create a major riff with the EU.

Established in 2018, the chamber is able to dismiss any judge or prosecutor. In July, the ECJ ruled that the controversial chamber may be used to exert political control over judicial decisions or to exert pressure on judges.

The European Commission argued it was forced to take action now as there were signs the ECJ's concerns were already proving to be true.

In her Facebook post, Varga charged that ignoring the Polish governments promise was a "scandalous and arrogant" step by the commission, which she accused of "meddling in the judiciary and law-making process of a sovereign member state in an unprecedented manner."

Both Hungary and Poland are locked in a series of conflicts with Brussels over issues such as the rule of law, press freedoms, and LGBT rights.
Moldovan authorities have announced new national lockdown restrictions as the country faces a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases.



The new restrictions, to take effect September 10, will include a ban on non-vaccinated people visiting bars, restaurants, and cultural events.



The restriction will be in place until at least October 31.



Existing restrictions include the requirement for people to wear masks in public places and for bars and restaurants to close at 11 p.m.



The country currently has registered a cumulative total of 272,325 cases with 6,466 deaths as of Sept 8.



Vaccination efforts meanwhile have gone slowly; only about 25 percent of the population is fully vaccinated.

With reporting by Reuters
North Macedonia has marked 30 years of independence with a military parade on the streets of the capital, Skopje. The September 8 event was attended by President Stevo Pendarovski and Prime Minister Zoran Zaev. In a referendum on September 8, 1991, Macedonians voted to declare independence from Yugoslavia. One of seven new sovereign states created by the breakup of Yugoslavia, the country changed its name to North Macedonia in January 2019 after reaching agreement with Greece, which has a province called Macedonia.
If you're following Russia's current political campaign, you've probably heard of the "clone" candidates competing for votes in a single district of St. Petersburg, provoking a lively discussion about Russian elections and the dirty tricks often deployed to bolster candidates backed by the state at the expense of politicians who oppose it.



The three Boris Vishnevskys now have counterparts in Belogorsk, a town in the Amur region in Russia's Far East, where independent journalist Natalya Mikhailova finds herself facing two other candidates who share the same name. And in contrast to the St. Petersburg trio, her rivals even have the same patronymic: Yuryevna.



Mikhailova told RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities that her rivals were spoiler candidates pitted against her in order to siphon votes away from a legitimate politician.



"How can she defend the interests of Belogorsk residents?" she said of one of the namesakes, who lives more than 100 kilometers away in the regional capital, Blagoveshchensk. "It's obvious that she's an appointee of [the ruling United Russia party]."



Mikhailova herself is a bona fide candidate with political experience. She is a lawmaker in the Belogorsk city council and is known locally for exposing embezzlement of government funds for transportation as a journalist and chief editor of local outlet Prosto gazeta, which translates as Just A Paper.



She is running on the ticket of the nationalist Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, which is part of Russia's state-approved so-called "systemic opposition" but often fields candidates that beat the United Russia party and oppose its policies in parliament.



Her investigations into corruption among local officials have landed her in the headlines. After one report, her car was set on fire.



After another, a local official who was a subject of Mikhailova's probe was arrested for embezzlement.



Now, voters may have a tough time distinguishing a muckraking journalist from two women with no public profile -- and critics say that's exactly the point.
Russia and Belarus will be the site of what could be the biggest military exercises in Europe in decades, which comes as Alyaksandr Lukashenka moves to integrate Belarus even closer not only militarily but politically with Russia, triggering fears he is bargaining away the country's sovereignty to its much bigger neighbor.



Zapad-2021, which held its opening ceremony on September 9 and will run until September 16, involves 200,000 military personnel and has raised alarms at NATO, which says the Kremlin has refused to invite observers as obligated under an international agreement. The Zapad maneuvers also follow a Russian military buildup on Ukraine's borders this year.



Belarus's neighbors are also wary, including fears of possible Russian electronic warfare (EW) directed at them during the exercises. Plus, Lithuania, Poland, and Latvia have all declared a state of emergency to contend with a surge of migrants they say Lukashenka is orchestrating to punish the European Union for putting sanctions on him, his inner circles, and businesses linked to him, in coordination with the United States, Britain, Canada, and other countries.

Crisis In Belarus Read our ongoing coverage as Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka ramps up pressure on NGOs and independent media as part of a brutal crackdown against protesters and the opposition following an August 2020 election widely considered fraudulent.

Belarus was plunged into turmoil in August 2020 when Lukashenka, in power since 1994, was declared the winner of a poll opponents and the West say was rigged. When tens of thousands of Belarusians took to the streets, Lukashenka reacted with a bloody crackdown. Tens of thousands have been detained, NGOs and independent media silenced, and opposition leaders jailed or forced to flee, including Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya.



"The strategic situation today is very different than during the previous Zapad (or West) drill in 2017, given last year's protests and crackdown," said Robert Lee, a Russian military analyst.



"We know that Russia has wanted to expand its military footprint in Belarus, and this exercise may give us an indication of what Belarus would allow. It could also involve greater integration of Russian and Belarusian military and security services to put down a Color Revolution-type scenario in Belarus," Lee told RFE/RL in e-mailed comments.



Russia and Belarus are formally part of a "union state" and have been in talks for years to further integrate their countries. On the eve of the start of Zapad-2021, Lukashenka and Russian President Vladimir Putin were to meet in Moscow on September 9 with the union expected to top the agenda after weeks of reports and comments from Minsk and Moscow that negotiations were nearing an end.



What Is Zapad-2021?



In Belarus, five training centers in Brest, Baranavichy, Damanauski, Abuz-Lyasnouski, Ruzhanski, and the region of Hrodna, will be used for Zapad-2021, which takes place every four years. Many of the sites are located in western Belarus, near the border with Poland and Lithuania. In Russia, drills will take part at nine training centers, and the Northern Fleet will also be involved in the exercises.



As in 2017, the drills will focus on fictitious foes -- Nyaris, Pomoria, and the Polar Republic, this time -- as well as so-called terrorist organizations.



"This is an interesting development. While Nyaris appears to represent Lithuania and Pomoria is probably a stand-in for Poland, the Polar Republic is likely intended to represent Norway or another Scandinavian state, heralding a significant role in Zapad-2021 for Russia's Northern Fleet Joint Strategic Command," wrote Michael Kofman, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Center for a New American Security.



The enemies may be fake, but the concerns the drills pose are real, especially for Belarus's neighbors. The pro-Kremlin newspaper Izvestia reported on August 11 that Zapad 2021 will witness one of the most expansive uses of electronic warfare in a Russian-led exercise, including EW units from Russia's 1st Tank Army and 20th Guards Combined Arms Army.



"Regarding EW, Russia's neighbors in Scandinavia and the Baltics have previously complained about GPS and other forms of jamming from Russia, which includes during the previous Zapad exercise. I expect this will be an issue near the Russian and Belarusian borders during this exercise as well. Given the state of NATO-Russian relations, I think Russia will be less concerned with angering its neighbors with EW," Lee wrote.



Lithuania, Latvia, as well as Poland are already contending with a surge in migrants whom the three countries and EU accuse of being directed to their borders by Lukashenka's government.



Belarusian Foreign Minister Uladzimer Makey last week dismissed the accusations and blamed "Western politicians" for the situation on the border.



"We do not expect a decrease in tensions on the eastern border because in a few days the biggest military exercises in 40 years will start, Zapad-2021," Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said on September 6.



The declared size of the drills is feeding regional fears. The Russian military has said Zapad-2021 will include 200,000 military personnel, including around 2,000 military personnel from the Moscow-led security pacts, the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Armenia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, India, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Serbia, and Sri Lanka were invited to send troops, but Serbia later said it would not take part. China, Vietnam, Burma, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan were sending observers.



If that figure turns out to be true, the Zapad-2021 military drills would be the biggest in Europe in decades. By contrast, 2018's Trident Juncture 18, NATO's largest exercise in a generation, involved merely 40,000 troops.



NATO said it had not been invited to observe the drills as spelled out by the Vienna Document, an international agreement governing military exercises in Europe.



"Currently, NATO has not been invited to send observers to Zapad-2021," NATO spokeswoman Oana Lungescu told RFE/RL. "Since the end of the Cold War, Russia has never opened an exercise for mandatory OSCE Vienna Document observation. This is despite the fact that observations are mandatory when exercises exceed 13,000 troops. We call on Russia and Belarus to act in a predictable and transparent way, in line with their international commitments. This is especially important when there is increased military activity along our borders, to reduce risks and avoid any accidents or incidents," Lungescu said in e-mailed comments on September 2.



According to a tally by the magazine NATO Review, Russia deployed between 60,000 and 70,000 troops in Zapad-2017 but only declared 12,700 personnel.



Belarus, Russia Beef Up Military Ties



Russia and Belarus began deploying forces and military hardware for the drills in late July, nearly two months before the start of Zapad-2021, "and far earlier than Russian forces have deployed for previous capstone exercises," according to the Washington-based Institute for the Study of War.



Russia has sent Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets to western Belarus to a joint military training center that will fly joint missions and patrol the two countries' borders, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said on September 8.



On March 5, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktar Khrenin and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu announced plans to establish three permanent joint military-training centers in Russia's Nizhny Novgorod and Kaliningrad regions and in Belarus's western Hrodna region, which borders NATO members Poland and Lithuania. That came after the two countries' Defense Ministries signed a five-year strategic partnership agreement for the first time.



Establishing a joint military-training center in Hrodna is a clear indication Russia is looking to "expand its military presence in Belarus," Yahor Lebyadok, a Belarusian military analyst, told RFE/RL's Belarus Service on August 31.



The training center only makes sense, Lebyadok offered, if Belarus is also guaranteed Russia's advanced S-400 air-defense systems or Pantsir S1 surface-to-air missile systems.



Earlier this month, Lukashenka said Russia would soon deliver a huge military-hardware consignment to Belarus, including aircraft, helicopters, and air-defense systems.



In Belarus, Russia leases two military sites: a strategic ballistic-missile-defense site operated by Russian Aerospace Forces in Hantsavichy and the global communications facility for the Russian Navy in Vileyka.



Once wary of allowing Russia an air base on Belarusian territory, Lukashenka has been more eager to beef up ties as he faces growing international isolation.



Lukashenka said on July 30 -- the day after opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya met U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House -- that he was prepared to invite Russian troops into his country if such a move was necessary to ensure the security of both countries.



Russia may exploit Zapad-2021 to expand its military footprint in Belarus, stealthily leaving behind military hardware after the drills officially end on September 16, said Valeriy Akimenko, a defense analyst with the U.K.-based Conflict Research Center.



"Lukashenka's position is shaky, so this could be a concession to Russia to secure its support. In which case this may very well be the first step -- 'maskirovka' -- toward a permanent presence in Belarus, both to anger NATO and to tighten Russia's grip on Belarus," Akimenko said, referring to the Russian tactic of military deception.



"It is possible that some elements will stay. In fact, the likelihood is higher than four years ago," offered Konrad Muzyka, an independent defense analyst focusing on Russia and Belarus, as well as director of Rochan Consulting.



"What they [the Russians] are definitely using is the position Lukashenka put himself in," Muzyka added. "One can't really blame Moscow for trying to deepen the defense relationship when Belarus has no choice."
A Russian court has ordered a Belarusian man extradited to Minsk, where he faces charges of participating in protests against Belarusian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka.



Vadzim Duboyski's sister told RFE/RL that the Belgorod regional court on September 9 rejected his appeal against the extradition order by the Russian Prosecutor-General's Office.



According to Duboyski's sister, his defense lawyer plans to appeal the decision to a higher court in Moscow.

The lawyer will also ask the European Court of Human Rights to block the extradition, on the grounds that he will face torture if he is sent to Belarus, she said.



Duboyski, a 31-year-old guitar player of a hardcore punk group, was arrested in the western Belarusian city of Brest in August 2020 amid unprecedented mass demonstrations demanding Lukashenka's resignation.



The protests erupted after a presidential election that Lukashenka claimed he won, but many in Belarus have said was rigged.



Duboyski and several other activists were held in a garage area in Brest for three days, during which he and others were viciously beaten and later forced to sign a paper saying that they did not have any complaints, according to relatives.



Crisis In Belarus Read our ongoing coverage as Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka ramps up pressure on NGOs and independent media as part of a brutal crackdown against protesters and the opposition following an August 2020 election widely considered fraudulent.

Physicians who examined him later confirmed that he was beaten while in police custody.



He was released after a week, on condition that he not leave Brest, but he fled to Russia in mid-October.



Russian border guards detained him in Belgorod in April this year for allegedly crossing the Russian-Ukrainian border illegally.



He may face up to eight years in prison if convicted in Belarus.



Mass protests against Lukashenka were met with a brutal crackdown, and the detention of tens of thousands of people. Much of the opposition leadership has been jailed or forced into exile.



Several protesters have been killed and thousands arrested during mass demonstrations demanding Lukashenka's resignation. There have also been credible reports of torture in the crackdown.



Belarusian authorities have also shut down several nongovernmental organizations and media outlets.
Smoke alarms have sounded on a Russian module at the International Space Station, and some of the crew reported smelling something that resembled burnt plastic, officials say.



The September 9 incident did not appear to be serious, but it was the latest possible mishap to rattle nerves aboard the orbiting station over the past several weeks.



The Russian space agency Roskosmos said the smoke alarms sounded on the Zvezda module and occurred as the station's batteries were being recharged.



In audio heard on a broadcast from NASA's TV feed of the station, a French astronaut can be heard reporting the smell of burning plastic.



According to Roskosmos, the crew activated air filters and returned to their "night rest" once the air quality was back to normal.



The agency said a previously scheduled space walk would continue as normal later on September 9.



That space walk is due to be performed by Russian cosmonauts Oleg Novitsky and Pyotr Dubrov, to continue integrating another Russian-built module, the Nauka science lab.



The Nauka docked with the space station in July, but shortly after docking, the module's thrusters unexpectedly turned on, sending the station briefly spinning out of position.



Russian space officials have blamed the issue on a software failure.



Meanwhile, an anonymous Russian space official last month was quoted by the TASS news agency as making a somewhat lurid allegation regarding a mysterious incident on the station in 2018. In the incident, one, or several, manmade holes were found in another Russian-built module.

The anonymous space official suggested that a NASA astronaut had experienced a medical problem involving blood flow that "could have provoked an acute psychological crisis," which, in turn, might have led her to seek a way to return to Earth before the mission was over.



The suggestion prompted strong pushback from NASA officials in Washington.

With reporting by AP
The buildup to Russia's legislative elections has been filled with intrigue and accompanied by some downright absurd headlines.



Spoiler candidates bearing the same names as rivals, opposition candidates debarred for "extremism," leaked recordings apparently testifying to planned falsifications -- the campaign period ahead of the September 17-19 nationwide vote has had it all.



Now, another bombshell recording has shed light on the widespread practice of political parties fielding their own election monitors -- and in this case, encouraging them to ignore violations.



Previously, at a meeting of polling station heads in a Moscow suburb, a woman identified as a local administration official was heard explaining how the upcoming elections for the State Duma should be conducted.

The latest recording -- this time from Khakassia, a rural region in Siberia close to the border with Mongolia -- features an election official in the village of Koptyevo and purported member of United Russia appearing to instruct monitors from the ruling party to ignore violations of electoral law.



"Even if you happen to see some violation or you think it may be a violation, don't try to immediately file a complaint," a voice identified as Irina Karabutina's can be heard saying in the recording obtained by the regional news outlet Taiga.Info. "Any situation that you consider a violation will most likely have to be arbitrated in court. And that's not very pleasant for anyone. We all live in villages -- why ratchet up tensions?"



The recording has caused an uproar among government critics, who fear that the instruction of election monitors by political parties essentially invalidates their purpose as objective observers. But there are indications that the practice is spreading amid a dearth of independent monitors.



According to an investigation by the independent news outlet Znak, Russia's Communist Party, the second-largest force in parliament, is fielding 300,000 election monitors and officials. United Russia told the outlet it has trained 100,000 throughout the country.



The team of jailed opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, which is now mainly composed of activists living in exile, says that 70,000 people have registered on one of its websites to become election monitors, though Navalny aide Leonid Volkov told Znak that the team didn't have the infrastructure to train them.



Impartial observers have traditionally been trained by the NGO Golos, Russia's only independent election monitor. But last month the organization was branded a "foreign agent" by the government, a label that increases the bureaucratic burden of functioning in Russia.



In a statement the day after its designation on August 18, Golos said that "the attack on the largest community of independent election monitors just a month before an election is an attempt to prevent Russian citizens from using the right to [election] monitoring."



On August 4, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) announced it would not send observers after Russia approved only a fraction of the body's requested monitoring team.



In a statement, the OSCE said that Russian authorities had cited the coronavirus pandemic as a reason for limiting the number of observers permitted into the country, but it noted that no entry restrictions were in place that could prevent the deployment of a full observation mission.



"I am very disappointed that limitations imposed by the national authorities prevent the OSCE from providing the Russian voters with a transparent and authoritative assessment of their elections," said the president of the OSCE's Parliamentary Assembly, Margareta Cederfelt.



It will be the first time since 1993 that OSCE -- widely considered the most respected international authority on elections -- will not monitor an election in Russia, where new laws restricting public access to polling-station cameras and extending the number of voting days have fueled speculation that the vote will be neither free nor fair.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic laid the foundation stone of a new Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine factory in Belgrade. The September 9 event came less than two months after the Serbian government signed a memorandum of cooperation with a Chinese manufacturer to produce the drug in Serbia. Although the Sinopharm vaccine has not been approved by the European Medicines Agency, Serbia bought four million doses and received another 200,000 as a donation.
A Ukrainian national has been extradited to the United States, where he faces charges of hacking and stealing computer passwords, the U.S. Justice Department said on September 8.



Glib Ivanov-Tolpintsev, 28, is suspected of hacking into tens of thousands of computers to steal passwords that he later sold to criminals on the dark web.



The Ukrainian national was arrested in Poland in October 2020 and transferred to the United States under an extradition treaty between the two countries.



He faces charges of conspiracy, trafficking in unauthorized access devices, and trafficking in computer passwords that could land him in prison for up to 17 years.



According to the indictment, Ivanov-Tolpintsev operated a botnet, a network of computers infected with malware and controlled without the owners knowledge.



He used the botnet to conduct brute-force attacks designed to decrypt numerous computer login credentials simultaneously, the Justice Department said.



During his activities, Ivanov-Tolpintsev claimed the botnet was capable of decrypting the passwords of at least 2,000 computers every week.

Once the login credentials were sold on a dark web website, the passwords were used to conduct illegal activity, including tax fraud and ransomware attacks, according to the indictment.
TASHKENT -- Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev has accepted the nomination from the pro-government Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan to be its candidate and seek a second term in office in next month's election.

When accepting the nomination at the party's congress in Tashkent on September 9, Mirziyoev vowed to implement more reforms after receiving sharp criticism from activists who say he failed to make deep changes in the country in his first term, which was notable for its crackdown on dissent in Central Asia's most-populous nation of 35 million.

Mirziyoev, who is expected to easily win the October 24 election over four other men widely seen as token candidates, promised that if he wins a second five-year term he will work on making high-speed Internet accessible in every home, more than double per capita income to $4,000 from $1,700, and help ensure the personal protection of journalists.

The Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan was used by Mirziyoev's predecessor, Islam Karimov, to get reelected many times during his tenure, which lasted from before the collapse of the Soviet Union until his death in 2016.

Since taking over the country, Mirziyoev has tried to position himself as a reformer by releasing political prisoners and opening his country to its neighbors and beyond. His critics say, however, he has failed on many fronts.

For example, Mirziyoev has said he is not against having opposition political groups in Uzbekistan, yet it has been impossible for independent candidates to register their candidacies for the presidential election.
Richmond, KY (40475)

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Thunderstorms likely this morning. Then a chance of scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High near 75F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms mainly during the evening. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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Joe Schulz served as the reporter of the Green Laker in 2019 and 2020, before being hired as a reporter for the Commonwealth in October 2020. He is from Oshkosh and graduated from UW-Oshkosh in December with a bachelor's degree in journalism.

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Rutland, VT (05701)

Today

Mostly cloudy skies early then heavy thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 77F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Rain early...then remaining cloudy with showers overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
Rutland, VT (05701)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mostly cloudy during the afternoon with heavy thunderstorms becoming likely. A few storms may be severe. High 76F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%. 1 to 2 inches of rain expected..

Tonight

A steady rain this evening. Showers continuing overnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
Ipswich - Joseph David Short, 77, a long-time resident of Ipswich, entered into eternal life on Tuesday, September 7, 2021, following a battle with cancer. Joseph was born in Memphis, Tennessee on May 9, 1944, the son of the late Sammons Short and Gladys (Watkins) Short. He was the husband o
Courtesy photoThe Rev. Manikka Bowman and her husband Jeff Myers say they and their children were wrongly accused of trying to steal apples from Connors Farm in Danvers and then accused by a Danvers police officer of "playing the race card."
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in his press statement said, "I wholeheartedly congratulate our Jewish citizens on Rosh Hashanah, which marks the beginning of the new year according to the Hebrew calendar.

Our cultural, political and social diversities are the assets that elevate our country and reinforce our unity and solidarity.

Having provided constitutional protection for its citizens freedom of faith and worship earlier than many other countries did, our state demonstrated the importance it attached to the preservation of these assets.

Despite the rising cultural racism, hate speech and otherization across our region, Turkey is a free country where all faiths are observed freely and all kinds of opinions, bar the ones that promote violence and terrorism, are expressed freely.

This feature of our country has further been consolidated by the reforms we have introduced over the past 19 years which have eliminated the anti-democratic practices of the eras of tutelage that used to restrict freedoms.

It is one of our main priorities that all the citizens of the Republic of Turkey, regardless of their religions, languages, races or origins, can lead their lives with peace, security and tranquility.

We believe that we, as the people that have a shared past dating back centuries, will build a shared future as well.

We appreciate the contributions made by our Jewish citizens in order for our country to develop, strengthen, and attain its goals.

With these thoughts in mind, I wish Rosh Hashanah may bring health and welfare to all Jews, our citizens in particular, and convey my regards and greetings to them on this special day of theirs."

Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy has also congratulated Rosh Hashanah with a message he shared.

The Acting Mayor of Istanbul Ali Yerlikaya and the President of CHP Kemal Klcdaroglu have also congratulated the Rosh Hashanah Holiday with a message they sent to the Chief Rabbi Isak Haleva.

The Mayor of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Ekrem Imamoglu, the Mayor of Besiktas Rza Polat, the Mayor of the Princess Islands Erdem Gul, the Mayor of Kadkoy Atty. Serdil Dara Odabas and the Mayor of Sisli have all congratulated the Rosh Hashanah Holiday of the Jewish citizens and their neighbors with banners hung in their districts and their social media accounts.
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Astronomers have found a new sort of supernova for the first time. After meeting with an incredibly massive object, maybe a black hole or a neutron star, an unfortunate star appears to have burst prematurely, leaving a distinct trace in the sky.

The narrative began when Caltech astronomer Dillon Dong saw an unusual signal in data collected by the Very Large Array (VLA) Sky Observatory in 2017. The said observatory continuously monitors the universe for radio emitters. This specific signal, known as VT 1210+4956, was a very bright radio wave pulse.

Researchers detailed the study findings, titled "A Transient Radio Source Consistent With a Merger-Triggered Core Collapse Supernova," in the journal Science.

Spotting a Star-Studded Mystery

Certain astronomical phenomena, particularly those that are unique, leave behind temporary calling cards. Short, brilliant bursts of radio waves that fade away rapidly are known as radio transients. Catching a glimpse of them at the proper time can show the explosive nature of merging stars.

CNN, citing Dong's interpretation of the event, said the explosive outburst occurred from a star engulfed by a thick shell of gas. The gas had been ejected from the star hundreds of years earlier. When the star exploded in a supernova, a brilliant explosion happened. When the exploding material collided with the gas shell, a brilliant burst of radio waves resulted.

However, Dong had more doubts regarding when and why the star first expelled its gas.

In a statement, Caltech graduate student Anna Ho recommended that the radio transient be compared to known brilliant X-ray bursts that last barely a few seconds.

ALSO READ: Supernova Blast Captured: Kepler Space Telescope Reveals the Groundbreaking Data It Recorded 3 Years Ago





Weird, Unusual Event

Slashgear said Dong located X-rays in the exact location as the strong radio transient. The researchers indicated that they were most likely produced by the same source.

According to Dong, the X-ray transient was a rare occurrence. He added that the transient indicated the deployment of a jet at the time of the explosion. Relativistic jets are electrified matter beams that travel at almost the speed of light.

Dong said the debris from the explosion eventually collided with a huge torus of dense gas expelled from the star millennia before. These two occurrences have never been linked back, and they are incredibly unique on their own.

How VLT Solved The Weird Mystery

Tech News Taiwan, citing the researchers, said two stars were born and created a system of concatenations a long time ago. One of which died later in a supernova explosion and became a neutron star or black hole. But as gravity crossed paths with two objects closer to each other, the nearby star swallowed up the death star. It orbited in the outermost surface of the latter for hundreds of years.

Large masses of gas and dust were released around the star during this time to form a material shell. The massive energy jet from the death star was noticed in X-ray form by maxi in 2014, after which debris from the explosion hit the nearby material shell at high speed, making visible light and radio radiation, which was found by a vast antenna array.

A big star should have burst after running out of core fuel. Still, the event was triggered by a dead partner in the system pushing it into the ocean, causing the massive star to explode early, according to scientists.

RELATED ARTICLE: How Black Holes Form: New Simulation Video Shows How Galaxies Feed Supermassive Mouths

Check out more news and information on Space in Science Times.
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Just days after its first successful collection, NASA's Perseverance rover has successfully retrieved and safely stored its second sample of Martian rock.

The announcement was announced by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), which is in charge of the Mars mission, in a tweet on September 8.

Two for two: I have successfully processed and stored my second sample of Mars, thus bringing my total to two Martian rock cores in one week.



More images: https://t.co/L6lhCNdqWq



Tune in to watch my team share more this Friday: https://t.co/Q24DiF42q0 pic.twitter.com/57AhLdldcR  NASA's Perseverance Mars Rover (@NASAPersevere) September 8, 2021

During its investigation of Jezero Crater, a dried-up lake bed, Perseverance will continue to drill material from various rocks. While the rover will study the samples with its onboard sensors, a subsequent mission will attempt to bring the haul to Earth so scientists may use more sophisticated analytical techniques to learn more about Mars and its past.

NASA's assistant administrator for science, Thomas Zurbuchen, said in a statement that the agency expects "amazing discoveries" in various fields, including the investigation of whether life ever existed on Mars.

NASA's Perseverance Rover's Successful First Sample Collection

NASA had a reason to rejoice as the Perseverance rover successfully gathered its first Martian rock sample last week.

The Mars rover attempted a second time to gather data for the first time on September 5. According to Space.com, the Perseverance ensured that its second try was successful by taking extra time to ensure that the 6-centimeter-long core was safely retained in the tube before sealing it up on Saturday.

ALSO READ: How NASA's Perseverance Imaged the First Cored Martian Rock with Mastcam-Z: A Step-by-Step Overview





The first Martian rock sample from the Perseverance rover is currently in an airtight titanium sample container. The initial sample and every additional sample collected by the Mars rover will be returned to Earth in the 2030s. In a cooperative mission, NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) will bring the Mars samples back to Earth.

Perseverance Rover's Previous Attempts To Get Samples

The first successful collection by the Mars rover was the robot's second attempt at obtaining a rock sample from the planet. This is because its initial effort failed.

Last month, the Perseverance rover made its maiden try. The sample is taken that day disappeared, and NASA determined that it could not be used for research.

NASA's Perseverance rover arrived on Mars last February as part of the Mars 2020 Exploration Program. During the landing, its partner, the Ingenuity helicopter, was nestled inside the rover. Both were launched into space in July 2020.

Unlike previous NASA rover missions, Perseverance had a traveling companion in the form of Ingenuity. This drone-like flying vehicle became the first aircraft to undertake powered, controlled flight on another planet in April.

Ingenuity was deployed as a test instrument to determine if it may assist future rovers in planning their itineraries more effectively and securely. However, Perseverance's multiple test flights have gone so successfully that Ingenuity has been able to assist Perseverance in navigating the Martian surface.

RELATED ARTICLE: Fact-Check: NASA's Mars Curiosity Rover Sees Camels on Red Planet? False, Experts Say

Check out more news and information on Space in Science Times.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Mary Taboniar went 15 months without a paycheck, thanks to the COVID pandemic. A housekeeper at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Honolulu, the single mother of two saw her income completely vanish as the virus devastated the hospitality industry.

For more than a year, Taboniar depended entirely on boosted unemployment benefits and a network of local foodbanks to feed her family. Even this summer as the vaccine rollout took hold and tourists began to travel again, her work was slow to return, peaking at 11 days in August  about half her pre-pandemic workload.

Taboniar is one of millions of Americans for whom Labor Day 2021 represents a perilous crossroads. Two primary anchors of the governments COVID protection package are ending or have recently ended. Starting Monday, an estimated 8.9 million people will lose all unemployment benefits. A federal eviction moratorium already has expired.

While other aspects of pandemic assistance including rental aid and the expanded Child Tax Credit are still widely available, untold millions of Americans will face Labor Day with a suddenly shrunken social safety net.

This will be a double whammy of hardship, said Jamie Contreras, secretary-treasurer of the SEIU, a union that represents custodians in office buildings and food service workers in airports. Were not anywhere near done. People still need help. ... For millions of people nothing has changed from a year and a half ago.

For Taboniar, 43, that means her unemployment benefits will completely disappear  even as her work hours vanish again. A fresh virus surge prompted Hawaii's governor to recommend that vacationers delay their plans.

Its really scaring me, she said. How can I pay rent if I dont have unemployment and my job isnt back?"

She's planning to apply for the newly expanded SNAP assistance program, better known as food stamps, but doubts that will be enough to make up the difference. "Im just grasping for anything, she said.

President Joe Biden's administration believes the U.S. economy is strong enough not to be rattled by evictions or the drop in unemployment benefits. Officials maintain that other elements of the safety net, like the Child Tax Credit and the SNAP program (which Biden permanently boosted earlier this summer) are enough to smooth things over. On Friday, a White House spokesperson said there were no plans to reevaluate the end of the unemployment benefits.

Twenty-two-trillion-dollar economies work in no small part on momentum and we have strong momentum going in the right direction on behalf of the American workforce, said Jared Bernstein, a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers.

Labor Secretary Marty Walsh said he believed the country's labor force was ready for the shift.

Overall the economy is moving forward and recovering, Walsh said in an interview. "I think the American economy and the American worker are in a better position going into Labor Day 2021 than they were on Labor Day 2020.

Walsh and others point to encouraging job numbers; as of Friday the unemployment rate was down to a fairly healthy 5.2%. But Andrew Stettler, a senior fellow with the Century Foundation, a left-leaning think tank, says the end of the expanded unemployment benefits is still coming too early.

Rather than setting an arbitrary deadline, Stettler says the administration should have tied the end of the the protections to specific economic recovery metrics. He suggests three consecutive months with nationwide unemployment below 5% as a reasonable benchmark to trigger the end of the unemployment benefits.

This does seem to be the wrong policy decision based on where we are, Stettler said.

The end to these protections while the economic crisis persists could have a devastating impact on lower-middle class families that were barely holding on through the pandemic. Potentially millions of people "will have a more difficult time regaining the foothold in the middle class that they lost, Stettler said.

Biden and the Democrats who control Congress are at a crossroads, allowing the aid to expire as they focus instead on his more sweeping build back better package of infrastructure and other spending. The $3.5 trillion proposal would rebuild many of the safety net programs, but it faces hurdles in the closely divided Congress.

In the meantime, families will have to make do.

These are two very important things that are expiring. There's no doubt that there will be families impacted by their expiration and that they will have additional hardship," Sharon Parrott, the president of the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, said in an interview.

The COVID-19 response has been sweeping in its size and scope, some $5 trillion in federal expenditures since the virus outbreak in 2020, an unprecedented undertaking.

Congressional Republicans had supported some of the initial COVID-19 outlays, but voted lockstep against Bidens $1.9 trillion recovery package earlier this year as unnecessary. Many argued against extending another round of unemployment aid, and Republicans vow to oppose Bidens $3.5 trillion package lawmakers are expected to consider later this month.

There are still multiple avenues of support available, although in some cases the actual delivery of that support has been problematic.

States with higher levels of unemployment can use the $350 billion worth of aid they received from the relief package to expand their own jobless payments, as noted by an Aug. 19 letter by Walsh and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen.

Federal rental assistance funds remain available, though the money has been slow to get out the door, leaving the White House and lawmakers pushing state and local officials to disperse funds more quickly to both landlords and tenants.

The investment bank Morgan Stanley estimated Thursday that the economy will grow at an annual pace of 2.9% in the third quarter, down sharply from its prior forecast of 6.5%. That decline largely reflects a pullback in federal aid spending and supply chain bottlenecks.

And the economy still faces hurdles. Union officials says sectors like hotel housekeepers and office janitorial staffs have been the slowest to recover.

Our industry is the tip of the spear when it comes to COVID, said D. Taylor, president of UNITE HERE, a union that represents hotel housekeepers  a field that is "primarily staffed by women and people of color.

Many of those housekeepers never returned to full employment even as Americans resumed traveling and hotel occupancy rates swelled over the summer.

Taylor said several major hotel chains have moved to permanently cut down on labor costs by reducing levels of service under the guise of COVID. Taboniar's hotel in Hawaii for example has shifted to cleaning rooms every five days unless the guest specifically requests otherwise in advance. Even as the hotel was at more than 90% occupancy in August, she was only employed for half her usual pre-pandemic number of days.

The delta variant of the coronavirus also poses a challenge, threatening future school closures and the delay of plans to return workers to their offices.

Walsh called the delta variant an asterisk on everything.

The sudden lapse of a crucial element of the pandemic safety net has fueled calls for a re-evaluation of the entire unemployment benefits system. Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore., the chairman of the Finance Committee, said in an interview it's crucial that Congress modernizes the unemployment insurance system as part of the package.

It's heartbreaking to know it didn't have to be this way, Wyden said.

One of the changes he proposes is to have jobless benefits more linked to economic conditions, so they won't expire in times of need. We got to take the unemployment system into the 21st century, he said.

___

Associated Press writer Josh Boak contributed to this report.
3 1 of 3 Ted S. Warren/AP Show More Show Less 2 of 3 CLAIRE MAULDING, SPECIAL TO THE SEATTLEPI Show More Show Less 3 of 3





Washington residents ages 5 and up must wear a mask  regardless of vaccination status  in outdoor gatherings of more than 500 people, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday.



The order goes into effect Monday, Sept. 13.



"For anyone wondering why we're doing this, it should be pretty obvious  it's because we're seeing evidence of transmission in outdoor settings," Inslee said at a news conference on Thursday. "If you combine large crowds with the Delta variant without any mitigations in place, we're going to keep getting superspreader events."



The statewide order is similar to outdoor mask measures adopted recently by Washingtons two most populous counties  King and Pierce  which went into effect Tuesday.



The governors announcement comes as COVID-19 cases are surging across the state. Washington is currently reporting more than 3,300 new cases per day. State officials say the spike is fueled by the highly transmissible Delta variant of the coronavirus, which is twice as contagious as previous strains and is ripping through unvaccinated communities across Washington.



On Wednesday alone, the state saw 4,200 positive tests, 252 hospital admissions and 59 deaths, Inslee said.



"We've got to understand how severe this is," he said. "More people die of COVID every three days than died on September 11th in the terrorist attacks. This is not a time for little, tiny baby steps."



The state has already seen the consequences of letting individuals gather for large outdoor events without rigid COVID restrictions in place.

Last month, roughly 28,000 people packed into the Gorge Amphitheatre in Grant County for the Watershed Music Festival. In the following days, county health officials reported at least 230 people tested positive for the virus after attending the three-day country music event. Guests were not required to show proof of vaccination to enter, and mask wearing was encouraged.



State Secretary of Health Umair Shah said there have been five outdoor "superspreader" events during the last six weeks in Washington. He said those events led to infections in more than 500 people.



Thursdays move by the governors office marks another landmark step in the states fight against the Delta variant. Last month, Inslee made vaccination a condition of employment for hundreds of thousands of state employees and workers in Washingtons K-12 schools, universities, colleges, childcare centers and private-sector health care facilities. He also brought back the statewide indoor mask mandate that he abolished earlier this year.



It's not uncommon for the state to announce COVID measures similar to ones first implemented by individual counties. Jefferson and Clallam counties now require proof of vaccination to enter bars and restaurants, and King County announced Tuesday that is was working on a potential plan to have some non-essential businesses implement vaccine verification requirements.
NEW YORK (AP)  Sailboats wafted by on the Hudson River and the setting sun sparkled on the water as Proenza Schouler celebrated a return to in-person fashion shows against the spectacular setting of New Yorks buzziest waterfront locale, Little Island.

Designers Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough were so delighted with Wednesday's show, held in perfect late summer weather, that they shared a high-five and a kiss as they ran out for their bow in the new parks amphitheater facing the water  surely one of the citys premier views.

The show, which featured an appearance by vice presidential stepdaughter Ella Emhoff  who also appeared in the label's digital February show  was timed precisely to the sunset at 7:15 p.m. That gave the designers a dramatic darkening sky as they presented a collection meant to celebrate a return not only to city life but to the ideas of travel and adventure.

We wanted to capture this newfound freedom that we have, still slightly fragile at times, McCollough said in a backstage interview after the show.

Hernandez noted that the two designers had developed the idea during their own travels, which began in April after nearly a year in lockdown. They visited islands both in Hawaii and in the Mediterranean, he said.

This is life, this is living, this is what we all want to be doing, he said of the show's ethos. Just that idea of expedition and travel and exploration. That's what we do as humans  we want to learn more."

The clothes were a mix of utilitarian black and bold yellow, red and orange. The brilliant colors, the designers said, were meant to suggest a psychological tonic to recent times, as well as a metaphorical turning of the page to a new chapter. Three colorful dresses in particular, in gauze jersey, pointed to a life that is free to step out once again, the duo wrote in their show notes.

Fringe on a number of garments was a celebration of the handmade,' they said. As for shoes, they were often flat and comfortable, recognizing the reality of comfort being paramount today."

Emhoff, stepdaughter of Vice President Kamala Harris, wore a poncho-like black coat, her hair pulled tightly back in a single braid. The model-designer, who graduated as an art major from the Parsons School of Design in May, also appeared in the labels February collection, presented as a digital film.

The 2.4 acre Little Island park, which sits atop a series of columns shaped like tulips, opened in May, a jewel within the larger Hudson River Park. McCollough noted that with each Fashion Week, it had gotten harder and harder to find new venues that have never been used before.
Shares were higher in Asia on Friday as investors stepped up buying despite another decline on Wall Street that kept the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq on track for their first weekly losses in three weeks.

Shares rose in Tokyo, Hong Kong and other major markets, bouncing back from losses earlier in the week. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note was steady at 1.31% and U.S. futures were higher.

Markets appeared to take in stride a decision by the European Central Bank to dial back some of its massive emergency pandemic support for the economy amid signs of increasing business activity and consumer readiness to spend as the 19 countries that use the euro rebound from the coronavirus recession.

Investors were reassured by ECB head Christine Lagarde's insistence that the shift was only a recalibration of existing stimulus  not a signal that pandemic support is being phased out.

Tokyo's Nikkei 225 gained 1.2% to 30,362.41 while the Hang Seng in Hong Kong jumped 1.4% to 26,079.12. South Korea's Kospi added 0.4% to 3,125.84. The Shanghai Composite index advanced 0.7% to 3,717.31. Shares rose in Taiwan and Singapore, and fell in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Investors are assessing the pace of economic growth amid worries that the rapid spread of the coronavirus delta variant will dampen consumer confidence and spending.

The economy seems to be slowing down a little bit and its hard to know how much is temporary because of the delta variant and how much is the new normal, said Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance.

In New York, technology and health care companies posted the biggest losses, offsetting gains in energy companies and banks. The S&P 500 fell 0.5%, its fourth straight drop, to 4,493.28. The Nasdaq pulled back 0.3%, to 15,248.25.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.4% to 34,879.38.

Small company stocks fared better than the broader market. The Russell 2000 index gave up 0.60 points, or less than 0.1%, to 2,249.13.

Bond yields mostly fell. The yield on the 10-year Treasury note slipped to 1.30% from 1.33% late Wednesday.

The Labor Department said Thursday that the number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 310,000. At their current pace, weekly applications for benefits are edging toward their pre-pandemic figure of roughly 225,000.

But other reports show the jobs market is still struggling to recover. The Labor Departments jobs survey for August was far weaker than economists expected, but the agency has also reported that employers are posting record job openings.

Fed officials have indicated they expect to dial back on stimulus measures by years end, and Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned Congress that she will run out of maneuvering room to prevent the U.S. from breaching the governments borrowing limit in October unless the debt ceiling is raised.

In other trading, U.S. benchmark crude oil rose 10 cents to $68.24 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. It gave up $1.16 to $68.14 per barrel on Thursday.

Brent crude rose 14 cents to $71.49 per barrel.

The U.S. dollar rose to 109.75 Japanese yen from 109.73 yen. The euro was trading at $1.1829 from $1.1825 late Thursday.

___

AP Business Writers Damian J. Troise and Alex Veiga contributed.
BUTLER, Wis. (AP)  Former Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch launched her campaign for governor on Thursday by likening herself to former President Donald Trump and deriding the Democratic incumbent as a weak failure.

The Republican told a couple hundred supporters at an envelope factory where her father used to work that if Trump could overcome the odds to win in 2016, friends, we can do it. No more failed, incompetent and chaotic leadership.

The race is a top priority for Republicans who control the Wisconsin Legislature but have been blocked by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers. He's vetoed Republican bills to make absentee voting more difficult, restricted access to abortions and prohibited enforcement of any future federal gun control laws.

Kleefisch promised to sign the election bills into law on her first day in office.

Under a Republican governor, Democrats would not have the votes to stop the GOP agenda heading into the 2024 presidential election in the battleground state President Joe Biden narrowly won.

Kleefisch took aim at Evers immediately, accused him of siding with rioters and not doing more to quell violence that erupted last summer in Kenosha after Jacob Blake, a Black man, was shot by police. She also faulted Evers for closing schools early in the COVID-19 pandemic, but did not lay out any of her own plans for dealing with the increasing spread of the virus other than promising to keep schools open.

He may shut down our schools, he may shut down our economy, he may shut down our churches but today we begin to shut down Tony Evers," Kleefisch said.

Evers' campaign spokesman Sam Roecker countered that Evers has taken bold action to ... clean up the mess" that Kleefisch left behind during the Walker years.

Because of Governor Evers' steady leadership, Wisconsin is bouncing back stronger than before with a record surplus, low unemployment and $4 billion in tax relief delivered in his first term, Roecker said.

Kleefisch promised to hire 1,000 more police officers, ban sanctuary cities, send the National Guard to secure the U.S. southern border, expand the private school choice program and keep elections safe and secure.

Kleefisch, 46, is trying to become the first female governor in Wisconsin history. She is the best-known Republican to officially get into the race against Evers, who is seeking a second term in 2022. State Rep. John Macco, of Green Bay, longtime lobbyist Bill McCoshen and 2018 U.S. Senate candidate Kevin Nicholson, a former Marine, are also considering runs for governor as Republicans.

Kleefisch was born in Michigan and her family moved to Ohio where she won the Miss Ohio Teen USA title in 1994. She worked as a television reporter in Illinois and then in Milwaukee, where she met her future husband, former state Rep. Joel Kleefisch. He was also a reporter at the time.

Kleefisch's first run for office was for lieutenant governor in 2010.

Kleefisch was diagnosed with colon cancer in August 2010. Less than two weeks before winning the five-person lieutenant governor primary she had a tumor removed. She completed chemotherapy treatment during her first year in office.

They literally cut out half my guts," Kleefisch told supporters. "Even with half my guts, I still have twice as much guts as Tony Evers.

Kleefisch served as Walker's lieutenant governor his entire time in office, including the Act 10 union fight and the unsuccessful 2012 recall. She was also involved with bringing Foxconn to Wisconsin, a deal that fell well short of meeting estimates for jobs or economic development that Walker and the Taiwan-based company promised.

During the lieutenant governor campaign, Kleefisch said that there was no consensus that people have caused climate change. And she told a Christian radio program that extending domestic partner benefits to gay state employees could lead to approving marriage to dogs or furniture.

She later apologized for her poor choice of words.

During the 2018 campaign, Kleefisch apologized to Democratic lieutenant governor candidate Mandela Barnes for repeatedly claiming  without evidence  that he knelt during the national anthem at the state fair.

After Evers defeated Walker in 2018, Kleefisch was appointed to serve as executive director of the Womens Suffrage Centennial Commission in Washington, D.C. A year ago, Kleefisch formed a conservative policy group called the 1848 Project.

Last week, Kleefisch released 56 policy proposals which included a host of conservative priorities including banning the teaching of critical race theory in public schools.

Political newcomers Jonathan Wichmann, Leonard Larson Jr., Adam Fischer and James Kellen have also filed paperwork to run as Republicans. The Republican primary is 11 months away on Aug. 9.
Sakchai Lalit/AP

BANGKOK (AP)  Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha sacked two Cabinet members on Thursday, including one who was widely reported to have unsuccessfully plotted for him to lose a parliamentary no-confidence vote last week.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao was deeply controversial even before the alleged mutiny attempt for being imprisoned for four years in Australia in the 1990s in a case involving heroin smuggling.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  Robert Durst is a champion at running from responsibility, covering his tracks with lies so numerous he couldn't keep them all straight, a prosecutor said Wednesday during closing arguments in the New York real estate heir's murder trial.

Deputy District Attorney Habib Balian told jurors in Los Angeles Superior Court that Durst had admitted lying on the witness stand during the trial, telling a fantastical tale to mislead or deflect from his guilt.

This was an Olympic year, Balian said. If there was an event for running from the truth, hed be on the top of the podium.

Durst, 78, who is ailing and seated in a wheelchair, has pleaded not guilty to murder in the point-blank shooting of his best friend, Susan Berman, at her Los Angeles home in December 2000.

Prosecutors said Durst killed her before she could speak to authorities about how she provided a phony alibi when his wife vanished in New York in 1982.

Durst's lawyers are scheduled to present their closing argument Thursday. Defense attorney Chip Lewis said they plan to poke holes in the prosecution's case and challenge what he said has played like bad film.

"They failed to deliver the required evidence to support their script/theory, Lewis said. We do not convict folks based on made-for-TV movies.

Balian told jurors  who began their service 18 months ago before the coronavirus pandemic delayed the case for more than a year  that after decades of investigations, news articles, a feature film and documentary, they had the best vantage point for determining what Durst had done.

Although it took nearly four months to present evidence of three murders to prove one, Balian said it was a simple case. It comes down to Durst, a multimillionaire son of commercial real estate kingpin, killing witnesses to cover up his wife's slaying, Balian said.

It all arose from marriage gone bad, Balian said. As Kathie Durst, nine years his junior and from a working-class family, began to blossom and pursue a career as a doctor, her husband became increasingly controlling and abusive.

She met this man she thought was her Prince Charming, Balian said. She started down this road with him. Unbeknownst to her, it turned out to be a very treacherous path.

Berman, the daughter of a Las Vegas mobster, became best friends with Durst at the University of California, Los Angeles, in the 1960s.

When Kathie Durst disappeared, Berman impersonated her to call in sick at the medical school she was attending, Balian said.

They embarked on a campaign to obscure the truth, to lead the investigation in a completely wrong direction, Balian said.

They would have gotten away with it, Balian said, but then authorities reopened the investigation into Kathie's disappearance and Berman told Robert Durst she planned to speak with police.

She helped him get out of that jam," Balian said. "The thing she got was ... a bullet in the back of her head. By her best friend.

After Berman was killed, Durst returned to Galveston, Texas, where he had been living under an alias while hiding out from New York authorities reinvestigating his wife's death.

He killed a neighbor, Morris Black, who discovered his true identity. Durst was acquitted of murder at trial in 2003 after testifying that Black pulled a gun on him and was killed in the struggle for the weapon. But Los Angeles prosecutors were able to present evidence that he murdered Black to support their witness-killing theory.

The defendant runs and hides and flees to Galveston, and there's only one person who can lead the police to his doorstep, who knows who he is, who knows about the reinvestigation, Balian. What does he do? Like Kathie, like Susan, he gets wiped off the face of this earth. Chopped up and thrown in Galveston Bay.

Balian said the case could be summed up in the testimony of Nick Chavin, a mutual friend of Durst and Berman. Chavin said Durst was speaking about Berman when he told him in 2014: It was her or me. I had no choice.

Either he's gonna kill her or he feared she was going to go to the authorities with what she knew, Balian said.

Balian there was direct evidence of Durst's guilt and corroborating accounts from dozens of prosecution witnesses that was overwhelming in the face of Durst's unreliable testimony.

Balian likened Durst's lies to cockroaches found in soup. He showed a photo of a roach being plucked from a soup bowl and said jurors would never keep eating the soup after the bug was removed.

Its all infected with lies," Balian said. "This is what he served you. Literally you were served a bowl of cockroaches and you were told, You pick out which ones are bad and which ones are good and toss them aside, but you can trust the rest of that soup. Go ahead and eat it up. Lap it up.
CAIRO (AP)  A bulk carrier vessel became wedged Thursday in Egypts Suez Canal, briefly blocking traffic in one lane of crucial global waterway, Egyptian authorities said.

The Suez Canal Authority said in a statement that the Panama-flagged Coral Crystal ran aground in a double-lane stretch of the canal, forcing the officials to redirect other vessels in the convoy to the other lane.

The canal transits two convoys everyday; One north-bound to the Mediterranean and the other south-bound to the Red Sea.

It said the canals tugboats managed to float the south-bound vessel, which carries cargo weighing 43,000 tons. The Coral Crystal then resumed its voyage, the canal said.

Admiral Ossama Rabei, head of the Suez Canal, described the incident as a very brief grounding, which was resolved in a professional manner.

Geoge Safwat, the canal spokesman, said 61 vessels, carrying a total of 3.2 million tons cargo, transited in the Suez Canal on Thursday. Traffic (at the canal) was not negatively impacted in anyway," since it was redirected to the other lane of waterway, he said.

Officials have not said what caused the vessel to run aground.

The ship was built in 2012 with a length of nearly 225 meters (738 feet) and a width of over 32 meters (104 feet). It was en route to Port Sudan on the Red Sea, according to Traffic Marine, a vessel tracking firm.

Thursdays incident came less than six months after the massive Panama-flagged Ever Given ran aground in the single-lane stretch of the canal. The hulking vessel blocked the canal for six days before being released in a massive salvage effort by a flotilla of tugboats.

The blockage earlier this year disrupted global shipment. About 10% of world trade flows through the canal, a pivotal source of foreign currency to Egypt. Some 19,000 vessels passed through the canal last year, according to official figures.
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Before AIDS had a name and was still thought to be a disease primarily affecting gay men, Dr. Arthur Ammann at UCSF Parnassus discovered the same condition in a newborn who had undergone a blood transfusion.

Further research by Ammann led to what he described as a terrible discovery: The illness could also be transmitted from mother to baby during pregnancy. That finding put maternity wards, pediatric units and the entire blood donor industry on alert.

Art was absolutely one of the first pediatricians to be involved in responding to AIDS, said Dr. Paul Volberding, a frontline physician in the earliest battles against the virus and co-founder of the worlds first AIDS clinic at San Francisco General Hospital.

From my standpoint, his observation of a baby that died of AIDS from a blood transfusion in 1982 was earth-shattering. It was a moment of real fear. It opened the door to the possibility that AIDS was caused by a new virus.

That virus turned out to be HIV, first isolated in 1983. By then, Ammann had a head start toward 40 years of study and treatment of HIV/AIDS in women and children.

He turned 85 at his home in San Rafael on Aug. 12, and that same day was admitted to the hospital with pneumonia. He died three days later of kidney failure, said his daughter, Kim Ammann Howard of Albany. He was 85.

Still working on his behalf in the global fight against HIV/AIDS is Global Strategies, an Albany nonprofit he founded to improve maternal and child health care in underserved countries in Africa. Global Strategies has HIV programs that reach more than 100,000 people a year and has pioneered new methods to prevent transmission of HIV in conflict settings.

Ammann frequently traveled to Northern Nigeria, Eastern Congo and Liberia, wherever the danger of AIDS in women and infants was the greatest.

Arts discovery moved the field significantly forward, said Dr. Michael Gottlieb, who was the first person to identify a new condition that became known as AIDS, while at UCLA in 1981. He stayed with the pandemic from the very beginning to where we are now. He had an intense and enduring commitment to it.

Arthur J. Ammann was born Aug. 12, 1936, in Brooklyn, where he grew up on Avenue H in Flatbush. His parents were German immigrants who came through Ellis Island. His father, Hans, found work as a baker, and his mother, Marie, was a homemaker. Educated in the public school system, Arthur was admitted to Brooklyn Tech. He graduated in 1954 and left Brooklyn for the first time by train to attend Wheaton College in Illinois, and went on to medical school at the New Jersey College of Medicine in Jersey City.

By then he was married to Marilyn Mihm, who was in his class at Wheaton. According to his daughter, Ammann chose pediatrics as his field of specialty for the simple reason that he noticed that fellow medical students coming off of rotations in pediatric wards seemed happier than the others. He chose to start his residency at UCSF in 1963 on a similar whim: He and his wife thought California would be an exciting place to try living.

He became a specialist in pediatric immunology and was also part of a UCSF faculty cohort that met weekly at the Parnassus campus to discuss the new illness being seen by UCSF doctors staffing San Francisco General Hospital.

On March 3, 1982, six months before the term AIDS, for acquired immune deficiency syndrome, was first used by the Centers for Disease Control, a baby was born prematurely. Blood transfusions were required, through which the baby developed symptoms similar to those exhibited by patients with Kaposis sarcoma. That led to Ammanns discovery that the disease could be transmitted through blood transfusions, in utero, and through contaminated blood products.

It was very controversial, he told the Stanford Journal of Public Health in a 2012 interview. The blood bank people were afraid that it would keep people from donating blood.

It was not until 1985 that it became widely accepted that blood transfusions could be the source of HIV/AIDS, and by then Ammann had left UCSF for private industry, at Genentech.

I was frustrated that things were just moving too slowly on the pediatric side, he later said. The children were being left out.

While a research scientist in private industry, he was still very much a pediatrician in that he cared deeply about the patients he met in clinical studies, and once you were a patient of Dr. Ammann you were always a patient, his daughter said.

He developed relationships that lasted decades, Ammann Howard said. I remember meeting people in their 20s and 30s who had been his patients as young children.

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Ammann left Genentech in 1992 to start the Pediatric AIDS Foundation in Novato. It was later renamed the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation and relocated to Washington, D.C.

In 1997, Ammann was named president of the American Foundation for AIDS Research and returned part time to New York City. He traveled widely in that capacity and, during a visit to a hospital in Uganda, observed that there were more children with HIV/AIDS in that one hospital each year than there were in all the hospitals in the United States.

Treatment for pregnant women and children with AIDS had become widely available in the United States, but Ammann believed that these treatments would never reach the poorer parts of the world without an advocate. He became that advocate by founding Global Strategies in 1999.

He was out to prove there was no place that was beyond the reach of HIV care, said Dr. Joshua Bress, medical director of Global Strategies.

Through his travels, Ammann took photographs that he turned into surreal montages. His debut as an artist came in 2017 with the opening of HIV: A Plague of Violence Against Women, an exhibit at the UCSF Parnassus Library.

My dad was about making a positive difference in peoples lives, whether it was a doctor, a neighbor, a lifelong friend, or someone he just met on the street or in the airport, his daughter said.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Marilyn of San Rafael; son, Scott Ammann of Fairfax; daughter, Kim Ammann Howard of Albany; and four grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held in coming months. Donations in his name may be made to Global Strategies, 828 San Pablo Ave., Suite 260, Albany, CA 94706.

Sam Whiting is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: swhiting@sfchronicle.com Twitter:@samwhitingsf
A state appeals court says California pesticide regulators failed to consult with state health officials or anyone else other than the manufacturer, Dow AgroSciences, before setting and then loosening limits on a widely used pesticide and soil fumigant known as 1,3-D that can cause cancer.

Wednesdays ruling by the First District Court of Appeal in San Francisco requires the state Department of Pesticide Regulation to consult with the states Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment and accept public comments before determining usage limits for the chemical, 1,3-Dichloropropene.

Although the ruling could lead to lower limits, it does not halt application of the pesticide, now injected into soils by growers of strawberries, carrots, almonds and other crops in much of the San Joaquin Valley and the Central Coast. It is marketed under the brand name Telone.

This is an important decision, especially for farmworkers and people working and residing near fields in which 1,3-D is applied, said Michael Freund, a lawyer for the environmental groups that filed the suit. He said officials in 38 of the states 58 counties have issued 1,200 agricultural permits for use of the pesticide.

A strong, health-protective regulation is needed now more than ever given the continuing high use of 1,3-D in California agricultural operations, and the alarmingly high off-site measurement of 1,3-D in rural areas, said Michael Meuter, an attorney with California Rural Legal Assistance, which also took part in the case. Anne Katten, a pesticide and work safety specialist with the CRLA Foundation, said the state should either ban the chemical or require tarpaulin film coverings on soils to prevent airborne emissions.

The pesticide agency and Dow, which have both maintained that the current standards are safe, did not respond to requests for comment on the ruling. They could seek review in the state Supreme Court.

The pesticide is used to kill nematodes and other bugs in soils. The potential health problems arise from fumes emitted into the air. Short-term exposure can cause coughing and lung irritation, and studies have found links between long-term exposure and cancer.

Based on studies of rats and mice, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency described the chemical as a likely cause of human cancer in 1988 and reaffirmed that finding several times before withdrawing it last year under the Trump administration. California has classified the pesticide as a carcinogen since 1989 and required warning labels on containers.

The Department of Pesticide Regulation banned sales of the pesticide statewide in 1990 but rescinded that ban in 1995 after an international agreement called for the phaseout of another widely used soil fumigant, methyl bromide. State officials then reached agreement with Dow on annual limits for use of 1,3-D.

The standards, called township caps, limited the amount of the pesticide that could be applied in each geographic zone of 36 square miles. Over state health officials objections, the pesticide department doubled the previous maximum in 2002 and increased it further in 2017, prompting the lawsuit.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

In Wednesdays ruling, which upheld a 2018 decision by Alameda County Superior Court Judge Winifred Smith, the appeals court said the departments standards amounted to an underground regulation that required a formal rulemaking process with advance notice, consultation and public comment.

Rejecting arguments by Dow and the pesticide agency that the current standard was a product of negotiations that affected only a single manufacturer, the court said the limit affects not just Dow but all California users of 1,3-D and any other company that seeks to register the product with the state.

Otherwise, a state agency could avoid formal rule-making by simply contracting with a regulated party, Presiding Justice James Humes said in the 3-0 decision.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
Clicking on a pornography website amounts to patronizing it, a federal appeals court ruled Wednesday  and, as a result, a Southern California man must complete an 18-month prison sentence for violating the terms of his release.

William Green pleaded guilty in 2013 to federal charges of possessing child pornography and was sentenced to 87 months in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release  similar to parole. The sentencing judge prohibited Green, after his release, from patronizing any place that featured sexually explicit material, and from viewing any pornography during the 10-year supervision period.

Green was released from prison in 2017. In March 2020, however, a court-monitored cell phone recorded his visit to a website that featured adult pornography. U.S. District Judge Larry Burns of San Diego found that Green had patronized the site and sentenced him to an additional 18 months in prison.

Green, 73 and suffering from congestive heart failure and cancer, appealed Burns ruling, saying he could not have patronized the site because he visited it only briefly and did not purchase anything. But that argument ignores the common understanding of these terms as they are used in todays digital age, the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco said Wednesday.

In the majority opinion, Judge Consuelo Callahan cited a 2017 ruling in which the court said the term patronize can include everyday activities like shopping, seeing a mainstream movie, reading a mainstream magazine, or watching television.

An individual can thus patronize a business merely by visiting it, or in the case of media, by viewing or consuming it, Callahan said. Similarly, she said, a website can be considered a place on the internet.

Judge Andrew Hurwitz joined Callahans opinion. In a partial dissent, Judge Richard Paez said the court had ignored the everyday meanings of patronize and place.

There is no record evidence establishing that Green was a customer or client of a sexually explicit website, nor any suggestion that Green supported or aided the site by clicking on it, Paez said.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Under the courts definition, he said, a researcher could be found to have patronized an objectionable website by looking at it. And clicking on a website to request information is not the same as traveling to another location or place, he said.

But Paez voted to uphold the sentence on narrower grounds, agreeing with his colleagues that Green had violated Burns order not to view any pornography during his period of supervised release.

Greens lawyer was not immediately available for comment.

Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @BobEgelko
A man was killed and another was permanently blinded in two unrelated violent incidents on Haight Street this week, officials said.

On Monday, a 19-year-old man was shot and seriously injured after an altercation with an unknown man on the 500 block of Haight Street around 12:25 a.m., according to San Francisco police.

When the young man and several friends tried to run away from the man, who was later identified as Ronald Melbourne, 58, of San Francisco, Melbourne shot at them, according to San Francisco police.

The 19-year-old man was the only one hit by the gunfire, which left him permanently blind, officials said. He received treatment from officers and medics at the scene and was taken to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, police said.

Officers arrested Melbourne at a home on the 300 block of Haight Street around 4:25 a.m. They executed a search warrant for the home and found and confiscated multiple guns and ammunition, police said.

Melbourne was booked at San Francisco County Jail on suspicion of attempted homicide, assault with a firearm, carrying a concealed firearm, mayhem and carrying a loaded firearm in public, police said.

Wednesday morning, a 65-year-old man was fatally attacked near the intersection of Haight and Shrader streets around 6 a.m. Officers found the man lying on the ground, bleeding from possible stab wounds, police said.

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Officers rendered aid and the man was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead, police said.

Both incidents are under investigation. San Francisco police ask that anyone with additional information call the police departments tip line at 415-575-4444.

Andy Picon is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: andy.picon@hearst.com Twitter: @andpicon
California is home to some of the largest Afghan communities in the U.S., with particularly large concentrations in the Bay Area.

Yet no city in the region, or the state, is included in the U.S. State Departments list of 19 placement options for Afghans and Iraqis who hold Special Immigrant Visas, which are available to people who worked for the U.S. government and are facing threats as a result of their employment. The main reason: the cost of housing.

The following quote comes from the U.S. Department of States Resettlement Options page:

Please be aware that the cost of living and the availability of housing can vary significantly in different locations across the United States. The Washington, DC metro area including northern Virginia and some cities in California are very expensive places to live, and it can be difficult to find reasonable housing and employment. Any resettlement benefits you receive may not comfortably cover the cost of living in these areas.

The government adds that people who have strong ties  familial or otherwise  to expensive cities can still be placed there. The State Department is also temporarily expanding placement options as more people flee Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, according to Daniel Binder, a department spokesperson.

The average rent in Fremont, where a portion of its Centerville district is dubbed Little Kabul with multiple Afghan businesses located there, is more than $2,900, more than double that of Phoenixs, according to August 2021 data from Apartmentlist.

As one of the largest Afghan communities in the U.S., many support networks specific to helping Afghan families, including the Afghan Coalition, are based there. In contrast, Phoenix has fewer than 3,000 people of Afghan ancestry, according to the latest estimate from the American Community Survey, but is among the State Departments resettlement options.

Government agencies partner with resettlement agencies, such as the International Rescue Committee, to help place incoming refugees and special visa holders, Binder of the State Department said. They also offer various levels of assistance, one of which is the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement benefits, which provides eligible people with housing, health care and other help.

The State Department offers the following warning for those considering settling in the Washington, D.C., metro area and cities in California: Unless you have close relatives or friends in these areas who are able to provide financial support and housing until you find employment that covers your living expenses, it is best to allow a resettlement agency to choose a suitable location for you.

Specifically regarding the Sacramento area, the State Department says a critical housing shortage there has led to limitations in resettlement benefits.

Money may stretch farther in other places across the U.S., but the most recent data shows California is still the top destination for refugees and special visa holders recently arriving from Afghanistan. More than 1,800 people arrived from Afghanistan to California between October 2020 and July 2021.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Farhad Yousafzai, a Sacramento-based insurance agent who runs the community group Afghans Living in San Francisco Bay Area, said he was drawn to the Bay Area because of its existing Afghan community, which supported him when he came to the U.S. in 2014 with a Special Immigrant Visa. Thats where people want to go  near their own people, he said.

He benefited from the support networks and even the shops in Fremont, where he said his resettlement agency took him to when he first arrived. So he tries to give back by offering his help where he can; he became an insurance agent because he realized there werent many Afghan agents in the area. This way, I can help the community, protect them financially, he said.

Though cost-of-living concerns are real, the State Department says it recognizes the importance of ties with family and friends from home for people in their new home, Binder, its spokesperson said. Placement of individual SIV holders and families prioritizes reunification with U.S.-based family and friends, and also considers needs and characteristics of each individual and family.

Yoohyun Jung is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: yoohyun.jung@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @yoohyun_jung
A San Quentin State Prison guard and two others faced federal charges this week in a plot to smuggle phones to inmates on Death Row, prosecutors and investigators say.

The accused are correctional officer Keith Christopher, 37, of Pittsburg; Isaiah Wells, 32, of Tracy; and Tanisa Smith-Symes, 45, of Las Vegas, according to a news release from the U.S. attorneys office for the Northern District of California.

Prosecutors allege that Smith-Symes and a Death Row inmate with whom she had a relationship worked together to obtain cell phones and send them to Wells. He then sent the phones to Christopher, who smuggled them into San Quentins East Block, where Death Row inmates are housed, according to an FBI complaint filed after an investigation was conducted.

Inmates are prohibited from having cell phones, which are contraband under state law and create safety risks for prison employees and inmates, the news release said.

The Death Row inmate working with Smith-Symes sold at least 25 phones to fellow inmates for up to $900 each, the complaint alleged. Prosecutors say Smith-Symes also sent bribery payments to Christopher through Wells and others appointed to receive the payments. The complaint alleges that Christopher charged $500 for each phone he smuggled into San Quentin.

Christopher, Smith-Symes and Wells are all being charged with one count of conspiracy to commit honest services fraud using interstate wires, prosecutors said.

Christopher and Wells appeared in federal court in San Francisco on Wednesday and were released on bond, the news release said. They are scheduled to return to court Sept. 17. Smith-Symes was arrested Wednesday and was scheduled to appear in court Thursday in Las Vegas, prosecutors said.

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If convicted, each faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Omar Shaikh Rashad is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: omar.rashad@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @omarsrashad
The Bay Area saw around 110 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes overnight as thunderstorms rolled through the region, bringing light rain and drizzle to areas that were under a red-flag warning for high fire danger. The National Weather Service said it counted around 1,100 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes statewide.

Meteorologists recorded eight lightning ground strikes in Sonoma County and one strike in northeast Santa Clara County shortly before 10 p.m. Thursday, a night when firefighters were on high-alert for potential lightning-sparked blazes. At least two small blazes were reported in the Bay Area and another was reported in Mendocino County but their causes were immediately unknown.

The strike in Santa Clara County appeared to be right in the middle of the 2020 SCU Lightning Complex burn scar, which Bay Area meteorologists said was good. Four lightning strikes were recorded over the course of an hour on Thursday night in Sonoma County, with some hitting east of Rohnert Park and one strike hitting the burn scar of the 2020 Glass Fire.

Two small fires sparked in the Bay Area on Thursday night, a 100x100 feet blaze in Oakland and a 30x30 feet fire on Wall Road near Dry Creek near the Napa-Sonoma county line, Cal Fire officials said. In Mendocino County, a new fire sparked and there was lightning activity south of Hopland and the Eastern Hill areas, Mendocino County sheriffs officials said shortly after 11:30 p.m. Firefighters and law enforcement were in the area and sheriffs officials urged residents to stay out of the area.

Several cloud-to-ground lightning strikes were reported along the west shore of Lake Tahoe and the storm keeps producing more, National Weather Service officials in Reno said at 12:07 a.m. Friday. Showers and thunderstorms were passing through the Tahoe Basin on Thursday night, Reno weather service officials said.

A red flag warning was issued Thursday by the National Weather Service for most of Northern California. In the Bay Area, it encompassed the North Bay mountains, East Bay hills and Mount Diablo area from 5 p.m. Thursday through 11 a.m. Friday. Similar warnings were issued in the Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley and the coastal ranges.

The warning also encompassed the northern Sierra Nevada, southern Cascades and foothills, including the areas where the Dixie and Caldor fires are still raging. That warning was set for 11 p.m. Thursday through 11 p.m. Friday, when lightning and gusty winds could push the spread of the fires, which are burning through tinder-dry brush.

Shortly before 8 p.m. Thursday, Northern California meteorologists reported lightning strikes over Colusa, San Joaquin and Madera counties. Additional cloud to cloud lightning  which doesnt reach the earth  was recorded off the Marin coast, National Weather Service officials said on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/SantaRosaFire/status/1436207778398302208

Cal Fire prepared for possible new fires by sending extra crews and equipment to areas where lightning strikes could start new fires. Two of those crews had been sent to the Mount Tamalpais area, Robert Foxworthy, a Cal Fire spokesperson said early Thursday.

Despite the red flag warning, dry lightning is no certainty, Foxworthy said. Previous warnings of dry lightning this fire season have mostly failed to materialize or werent widespread. And firefighters are hoping thats the case this time around as well.

Last year, a mid-August lightning storm started more than 600 fires that burned roughly 2 million acres in Northern California, including the CZU, LNU and SCU fires, which encircled the Bay Area, destroyed more than 3,000 structures and killed seven people.

Officials said they were optimistic the changing weather would not cause a similar outbreak of fires.

Fire Tracker Follow wildfires across the state Latest updates on wildfires burning across Northern and Southern California

This is not anticipated to be a repeat of the August 2020 dry lightning event, the weather service said in an email.

As firefighters braced for the possibility of lightning fires and gusty winds, they continued to make progress on the Caldor and Dixie fires.

The Caldor Fire, which started Aug. 14, leveled the town of Grizzly Flats and began a march toward Lake Tahoe before being steered away from South Lake Tahoe, was 53% contained Thursday evening and had burned through 218,405 acres. Firefighters on Thursday worked on the southern edge of the fire perimeter near Kirkwood ski resort to respond to hot spots and to keep the fire north of Highway 88, Cal Fire officials said in a Thursday evening incident update.

The fire also remained active 40 miles away in the western end of El Dorado County, where firefighters were focused on snuffing spot fires and protecting houses.

Farther north, the Dixie Fire  the second largest in state history  had burned through 928,741 acres in Plumas, Lassen, Butte, Tehama and Shasta counties. Containment increased to 59% on Thursday, but the blaze continues to spread and threaten communities. Authorities evacuated Old Station in Shasta County on Wednesday night as the winds picked up and flames spread through treetops and dry brush. Hand crews and fire engines were redirected to protect the communities of Hat Creek and Old Station, where firefighters built and reinforced lines, Cal Fire officials said.

Michael Cabanatuan and Lauren Hernandez are San Francisco Chronicle staff writers. Email: mcabanatuan@sfchronicle.com; lauren.hernandez@sfchronicle.com
Wine businesses tend to have long life spans. Unlike restaurants, which can open and close quickly, sensitive to spikes in rent or seasonal labor shortages, wineries tend to stick around for a long time  often for generations.

Even when wineries sell to new owners, they typically don't die off. If it's a winery with any repute, the new steward will often retain the original name and do their best to assure fans that the wine quality and style will remain constant. There are exceptions to this, of course, but in California it generally holds true.

That's largely because building a recognizable brand name is such a huge feat, requiring years of patient, hard work and a whole lot of luck. When a known entity like, say, Lewis Cellars or Diamond Creek Vineyards changes hands, you'd better believe the new regime is going to hold on to the precious, hard-won credibility that those names convey.

So it was especially notable when Dirty & Rowdy Family Wines, which had grown an enormously impressive following during its 11 years in business, announced this week that it would be dissolving. No changing hands, no transference of brand rights  just gone, poof.

Given the particular circumstances surrounding this dissolution, that decision made sense. Dirty & Rowdy was a fifty-fifty partnership between two people: Hardy Wallace, who goes by the nickname Dirty, and Matt Richardson, who goes by Rowdy. As Wallace told me in an interview for the news story I published about the breakup, "It just doesnt seem like you can have a Dirty & Rowdy without a Dirty and a Rowdy."

Still, that presents an interesting new challenge for Wallace and his wife Kate Graham as they endeavor a second act: building a brand from scratch. Later this month, the couple will release the first set of wines under their new label, the cheekily titled Extradimensional Wine Co. Yeah!

There aren't many precedents among notable California wine companies for this sort of thing. In many cases, when co-owners split up, at least one person retains the original brand. That happened last year when the two co-founders of Santa Barbara County's Scar of the Sea parted ways; one of those winemakers kept the brand, while the other launched a new one. The most famous example of this phenomenon happened in 1965, when Robert Mondavi left his family's Charles Krug Winery, leaving it under the control of his brother Peter. Robert Mondavi founded his own winery, which you've probably heard of, the following year.

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

When a business has no physical assets  no vineyards, no winery of its own, possibly not even any employees  the calculus changes. This was the case with Dirty & Rowdy, which produced its wines in a custom-crush facility and bought fruit from vineyards owned by other people. That's an increasingly common arrangement for upstart wine companies that can't afford to invest millions of dollars into Wine Country real estate.

But Wallace has one asset that can't be bought: a strong personal brand, constructed over years as a wine blogger and then as a prolific user of social media. In this day and age, what determines a winery's survival isn't whether it has a tasting room on Highway 29 so much as whether it has customers' trust  and whether it has customers' email addresses. Succeeding on those counts might be enough to overcome the difficulty of building recognition for a new brand created out of thin air.

It all makes me wonder whether we'll be seeing more instances like this  of young wine companies closing up shop, embarking on new chapters, having shorter life spans. If they're untethered from a physical place, after all, what's stopping them?
The return to in-person school and peoples increased travel has many parents more hyper-focused than ever on covering their kids faces indoors to protect them from the surging delta variant of the coronavirus.

But the marketplace now holds a myriad of mask choices  cloth, surgical, KF94, KN95  that leave parents pondering: Whats best for my kids?

The short answer, as with so many aspects of the pandemic, is that theres no absolute right answer. But Bay Area pediatric infectious disease experts offer some guidelines that parents should follow:

The best mask, hands-down, is one your child will tolerate, whether cloth, surgical or heavy duty grade.

Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle

The CDC still recommends against masking children younger than 2, as that might pose a safety hazard. But the agency hasnt specified a brand or even type of mask that is best for kids older than that, noted Jenna Holmen, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the Childrens Hospital in Oakland.

The most important consideration, Holmen said, is that a mask fits snugly and is comfortable and breathable, so the child is more likely to keep it on. Cloth masks with filters are preferable to just plain cloth to be most effective, experts say, but again, a childs comfort level is the key.

Its really about wearing it, and wearing it appropriately, because in school theyll have to wear it for long hours, Holmen said. So youll want something that theyll keep on, rather than something thatll drive them nuts.

N95 and its Korean and Chinese cousins, KF94 and KN95, are hefty medical-grade masks that block most respiratory particulates. Pediatric experts, however, do not recommend them as everyday masks for kids, although there are KF94 and KN95 models made for children, because they can be uncomfortable. Counterfeiting also can be an issue.

Plus, with many companies producing different models of these types, it can be difficult to figure out the best brands that are also FDA-approved.

If FDA approved, the KF94 and KN95 childrens masks offer the best protection, according to scientists Linsey Marr and Aaron Prussin, aerosol experts who compiled a list for parents looking for dependable masks. Double-masking with a surgical mask and a cloth mask is a next best option, followed by a cloth or surgical mask alone. The latter two are far better than no mask, Marr and Prussin wrote, and comfort, fit and filtration are the most important factors.

Stanford pediatric infectious disease expert Anne Liu agreed, and added that a childs feeling of having made their own choice about the mask is the best way to ensure he or she will keep wearing one.

Its important to give kids a sense of control over the situation and give them something to buy into, said Liu. Kids all have different preferences.

Jessica Christian/The Chronicle

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Some may gravitate toward cloth masks in colors and patterns. Others may prefer surgical masks because they are generally light and easy to wear. Still others, especially older kids, like the shape of the KN95  more pointy and a bit roomier,  Liu said.

I would show them (all of the masks) and let them try them on and decide, she said.

Eye protection, with face shields or goggles on top of masks, is another way to add more protection for kids, but experts say thats not needed all the time for everyday scenarios.

Holmen and Liu recommend parents wash cloth masks  ideally every day  and dispose of surgical masks after at most a couple of uses, or if the masks are soiled.

Especially for the children too young to get vaccinated, masks are a crucial element for safety as the delta variant cuts its way through communities, experts note. The main goal is just to be wearing it, said Holmen. We need to do all that we can to protect them.

Annie Vainshtein is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: avainshtein@sfchronicle.com. Twitter: @annievain
Data shows the Bay Areas delta surge may be waning  but its unclear if the trend will hold. Experts say Icelands delta surge could hold lessons for San Francisco. And Californias extra sick leave pay is headed toward expiration this month.

Resources on COVID-19 and Californias reopening: For detailed maps and new city-by-city Bay Area data, check out The Chronicles Coronavirus Tracker. To get regular updates on our coverage, sign up for our coronavirus newsletter.

Latest updates:

Bay Area stores are mostly sold out of BinaxNow rapid antigen tests: This article discusses where to find them (online!) and what the alternatives are.

Moscone Center opens for first conference since March 2020: The California Dental Associations annual fall gathering kicked off San Franciscos return to large-scale indoor events. Read the story here.

All eligible Los Angeles public school students must be vaccinated by January: All students 12 years old and older in Los Angeles public schools will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by January 10, the district said in a release on Thursday. The nation's second-largest school district is the first to issue such a mandate. The science is clear - vaccinations are an essential part of protection against COVID-19, Interim Superintendent Megan K. Reilly said in a statement. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective and requiring eligible students to be vaccinated is the strongest way to protect our school community. The requirement is in addition to other virus mitigation measures in the district, including mandatory weekly testing of all students and employees, mask-wearing indoors and outdoors, and vaccinations for all teachers and staff.

Major retailers, including Walmart and Amazon, to sell at-home virus test kits at cost: As part of his six-pronged plan to bring the delta COVID surge under control, President Biden announced Thursday that the White House is working with major retailers to offer affordable at-home test kits. "I'll use the Defense Production Act to increase production of rapid tests, including those that you can use at home," Biden said. "While that production is ramping up, my administration has worked with top retailers like Walmart, Amazon and Kroger and tonight we're announcing that no later than next week, each of these outlets will start to sell at-home rapid test kits at cost for the next three months."

Biden to unvaccinated Americans: 'What more is there to wait for?': President Biden on Thursday urged people who have not yet gotten vaccinated against COVID-19 Americans to "do the right thing" and get their shots. "My message to unvaccinated Americans is this: What more is there to wait for? What more do you need to see? We have made vaccinations free, safe and convenient," he said during a White House briefing announcing a six-point plan for ending the coronavirus pandemic. He said the 80 million vaccine holdouts pose a significant threat to the rest of the nation and blasted elected officials who have undermined efforts to combat COVID-19. "In a country as large as ours, that's 25% minority. That 25% can cause a lot of damage, and they are. The unvaccinated overcrowd our hospitals or overrun the emergency rooms and intensive care units leaving (none) for someone with a heart attack or pancreatitis or cancer," Biden said.

Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival canceled for the second year in a row: The city council has voted unanimously to deny organizers the required special event permit for Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival, citing COVID concerns. It is the second year in a row that the event will not take place. The pumpkin weigh-off will go on as planned on Oct. 11, organizers said on Twitter.

Businesses with 100 or more employees face vaccine-or-test mandate: President Biden announced a sweeping requirement on Thursday that companies with at least 100 employees must require workers to get vaccinated or be tested weekly. Heres the full White House plan.

Federal workers will have 75 days to get vaccinated or lose their jobs: The White House is tightening its COVID-19 vaccination policy for federal workers in an effort to thwart the spread of the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus, press secretary Jen Psaki said during a Thursday briefing. We've seen over the past couple of months, not only the threat of delta, but the importance of taking additional bold and ambitious steps to get more people vaccinated, Psaki said. Obviously the federal workforce is one of the largest in the country and we would like to be a model to what we think other businesses and organizations should do around the country. As part of that plan, which will be formally introduced by President Biden later today, federal employees will have 75 days to get fully vaccinated or risk losing their jobs, she said: "That gives people more than enough time in our view to start and complete their vaccination series."

Delta variant behind a huge increase in children's COVID hospitalizations nationally: While pediatric cases may be holding steady in the heavily vaccinated Bay Area, nationally the delta variant caused COVID-19-associated hospitalization rates among children and adolescents to rise nearly five-fold during late June to mid-August, according to a report published Thursday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Hospitalization rates were 10 times higher among unvaccinated than among fully vaccinated adolescents, the study shows. The researchers recommend the use of known preventive measures for children, such as universal masking in schools and public spaces, to mitigate the spread of the virus.

COVID cases in children remain low in San Francisco: Pediatric cases make up a small percentage of total cases in San Francisco, according to a report released Thursday by the city's health department. COVID-19 cases in children under 18 have made up less than 20% of overall cases throughout this pandemic, including through the recent delta variant surge, with children making up nearly 13% of cases in the city in August, compared to 11% in July, 13% in June, and 17% in August. Since March 2020, there have been a total of 13 pediatric hospitalizations among San Francisco residents. An estimated 90% of children ages 12 to 17 are fully vaccinated, according to city data. Read the story here.

Qantas to become first airline to ban unvaccinated international travelers: Australia's flagship airline confirmed on Thursday that will only allow fully vaccinated passengers on its planes when it resumes international flights to the U.S. and the U.K. by Christmas. Qantas will have a policy that internationally we'll only be carrying vaccinated passengers, CEO Alan Joyce said, according to Traveller, adding that it's "going to be one of the requirements to show that youre flying safe."

Mu variant gains a foothold in the Bay Area: Bay Area health officials are seeing more coronavirus cases involving the newly named mu variant. As of Tuesday, the San Francisco Department of Public Health reported 12 cases linked to the strain classified a variant of interest by the World Health Organization; Santa Clara County reported 27 cases, and Marin County showed three cases, according to ABC7. Dr. Charles Chiu, a prominent UCSF virologist whose lab conducts coronavirus genetic sequencing, said mu contains several mutations shared by variants of interest and concern that make it worrisome. The highly contagious delta variant remains dominant in the region with a link to about 99% of recorded cases.

Bay Area mass vaccination sites prepare to return for booster doses: All nine Bay Area counties are preparing to offer supplemental vaccine doses through health care partners like local pharmacies or doctor's clinics, according to a report from ABC7. The Solano County Fairgrounds and San Mateo County Event Center will be among the first locations in the region to become a mass vaccination sites for boosters, with capacity administer about 2,000 to 3,000 doses a day. "Once all those approval happen, we can turn the event center into a vaccination site within a few days," Dr. Anand Chabra with San Mateo County Health told the station. Marin County is also preparing a site that will offer up to 1,500 doses a day. The federal government is expected to approve Pfizer's COVID-19 booster shot by Sept. 20.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

New York City expands vaccine mandate to childcare and after school workers: New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Thursday that all workers at pre-K and preschool programs operated by the city, as well as after school and home-based childcare, will be required to show proof of vaccination by Sept. 27. The workers must have received at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine by that date. The city, which already requires vaccination for public school teachers and employees, will also offer vaccinations at all 700 city schools for eligible students ages 12 and over starting next week.

San Mateo County district considers vaccine mandate for high school activities: The Board of Trustees at San Mateo Union High School District on Thursday will decide if students will be required to receive at least their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to participate in extracurricular events and activities, according to the Daily Journal. The rule, which would apply to sports, plays and clubs, would go into effect Sept. 20. We have events and games being canceled because some students are not vaccinated and then other students lose out, said Kevin Skelly, San Mateo Union High School District superintendent.

U.S. severely undercounted nursing home COVID deaths in 2020: Government data significantly understated the impact of COVID-19 in nursing homes last year, according to a report published Thursday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. "In this cross-sectional study of 15,307 US nursing homes, approximately 44% of COVID-19 cases and 40% of COVID-19 deaths that occurred before the start of reporting were not reported in the first NHSN (National Healthcare Safety Network) submission in sample states, suggesting there were more than 68,000 unreported cases and 16,000 unreported deaths nationally," Harvard researcher Karen Shen and her team said.

Microsoft indefinitely delays return to office: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Microsoft announced Thursday that it has indefinitely delayed bringing employees back to its offices. Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, weve decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our U.S. work sites, Jared Spataro, a corporate vice president, wrote in a blog post. Microsoft had previously postponed its workplace return from September to Oct. 4, but now its re-opening has no target date. Microsoft employs about 181,000 full-time workers, of whom 103,000 are in the U.S.

Biden reportedly to sign order requiring vaccinations for federal workers: President Joe Biden is expected to sign an order Thursday mandating vaccinations for all federal employees, the Washington Post reported, citing a source familiar with the plans. The order affecting the estimated 2.1 million workers reportedly will not include an opt-out alternative for regular coronavirus testing. Biden is expected to include the order in remarks at 2 p.m. PDT outlining a robust plan to stop the spread of the delta variant and boost COVID-19 vaccinations.

End isnt near for COVID restrictions in Bay Area, officials say: With coronavirus cases showing early signs of tapering down in much of the Bay Area, a big question remains: When will the latest set of pandemic restrictions be lifted? The answer is vague regionwide, but San Francisco health officer Dr. Susan Philip on Wednesday said that officials are assessing ways to eventually ease some rules, such as mask mandates for places of business, and are encouraged by the really high rates of vaccination in the city. She stressed that nothing is happening soon, and said decisions would be in partnership with other Bay Area county health departments. Read the full story.

Experts weigh best and worst for kids' masks: The return to in-person school and increased travel has many parents hyper-focused on covering their kids faces indoors to protect them from the surging delta variant. But the marketplace now holds a myriad of mask choices  cloth, surgical, KF94, KN95  that leave parents pondering: Whats best for my kids? Bay Area pediatric infectious disease experts say theres no one right answer, but they offer some guidelines  and agree that the best mask, hands-down, is one your child will tolerate, whether cloth, surgical or heavy duty grade. Read the full story.

WHO calls COVID during pregnancy a big threat in Latin America, Caribbean: The coronavirus pandemic could erase 20 years of progress in reducing maternal mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean, the World Health Organization warned Wednesday. WHO officials said those who are pregnant or who have recently given birth should get priority in vaccination campaigns in the region, according to the New York Times.

California could restrict protests at vaccination sites: While hundreds protested at the California Capitol against coronavirus vaccine mandates, lawmakers voted Wednesday to make it a crime to obstruct vaccination sites. Unrelated to the rally happening outside, SB742 would make it illegal to approach anyone within 100 feet of entering or exiting a vaccination site with the purpose of harassing, intimidating or preventing them from obtaining medical services. Read the full story.
WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina father has drowned after trying to save his son from a tidal current, police said Wednesday.

The Wrightsville Beach Police Department said in a news release that Bhou Soutthivong and his family were visiting from Hickory and were fishing at the south end of the beach on Sept. 4. Police said Soutthivong's son went swimming and was being pulled away from the shore by the current.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  The state issued updated guidance Wednesday to help Michigan schools and local health departments navigate whether asymptomatic students who have been exposed to a coronavirus-infected student should quarantine at home or stay in school.

A change: Unvaccinated but masked students who were less than 3 feet from a COVID-positive student for at least 15 minutes can remain in school but only if they are tested daily for seven days after the exposure. Such a student previously would have been told to isolate for 10 days or seven days with a negative test.

The recommendation is among many included for the first time in a school-specific document for the general public at the start of the academic year. The state Department of Health and Human Services had previously provided county health departments with quarantine guidance for all types of settings including schools.

The state says fully vaccinated students can stay in school if they wear a mask and monitor for symptoms for 14 days, regardless of whether they were masked when they came in close contact with an infected student.

Unvaccinated students who were at least 3 to 6 feet away for 15 or more minutes can remain, too, if they and the COVID-positive student were masked. Exposed students should quarantine if they or the infected student were unmasked  seven days with a negative test or 10 days without one.

When layered prevention strategies such as masking, distancing, testing, isolation and quarantine are applied consistently, school-associated transmission of COVID-19 is significantly reduced  which keeps kids in the classroom so they can learn, MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel said in a statement. However, if someone is exposed to COVID at schools, its important for them to follow quarantine guidance to prevent spread to other children.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's administration has declined to reinstate an indoor mask mandate for schools, instead leaving the decision to local health agencies and K-12 districts. At least 60% of students in traditional public schools are required to be masked, according to the governor's office.

Whitmer and health officials continued to urge people ages 12 and older to get vaccinated. About 59% of them are fully vaccinated in Michigan compared to 62% nationally, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

The state reported more than 2,300 additional virus cases and 51 deaths, including 10 older ones from a records review. Michigan's infection and positivity rates have been rising for 2 1/2 months, but daily cases and deaths remain well below past peaks unlike in many southern states.

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Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
FORT MYERS, Fla. (AP)  A Florida state prison guard pleaded guilty Wednesday to participating in a scheme to smuggle drugs into a facility.

Leslie Samuel Spencer, 49, pleaded guilty in Fort Myers federal court to attempted distribution of methamphetamine and MDMA, according to court records. He faces up to 20 years in prison.

According to court documents, Spencer worked as a correctional officer at the Charlotte Correctional Institutions offsite work camp in Fort Myers. In March, Spencer agreed to smuggle three ounces of methamphetamine, one ounce of MDMA, a small amount of synthetic marijuana and two cellphones into the prison and give it to an inmate in exchange for a payment of $400.

Before his shift one day, Spencer met with an undercover FBI agent in a retail parking lot near the prison. The undercover agent gave Spencer fake drugs, two cellphones and the $400 in cash. Spencer was arrested after leaving the area.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  A Tennessee panel has approved $65 million in state incentives for Oracle Corp. as the company plans to bring 8,500 jobs and an investment topping $1 billion to fast-growing Nashville over the coming decade.

The State Funding Board's approval of the FastTrack grant came during a meeting Tuesday.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Tennessee's Republican supermajority Legislature began work Wednesday on the once-a-decade task of carving up new legislative and congressional districts based on population shifts, a task that a Democratic congressman testified should not divide fast-growing Nashville into different U.S. House seats.

Lawmakers kicked off the monthslong undertaking with a hearing in the House, where the 16-member redistricting committee includes four Democrats. Republican Lt. Gov. Randy McNally plans to announce the Senate redistricting panel and the public input guidelines later this month, spokesperson Adam Kleinheider said.

U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper testified that the redistricting process, at least at the congressional level, in the past has been remarkably bipartisan. He urged state lawmakers not to split up Nashville-Davidson County, as did other speakers.

Nashville is perhaps the hottest destination in America," Cooper said. "Its a unique formula. Dont ruin the recipe.

Lawmakers will use newly released U.S. Census Bureau data to redraw state and congressional districts currently dominated by Republicans. The map proposals, shaped around state and federal requirements, will be taken up in the 2022 legislative session that begins in January. Republican Gov. Bill Lee has veto power over the finalized plan, but hes not expected to put up many objections.

Republicans hold a 73-26 state House edge over Democrats and a 27-6 margin in the Senate. The state grew by 8.9%  exceeding the 7.4% national rate  and increased to 6.9 million residents in 2020 from 6.3 million reported in 2010.

Tennessee wont gain or lose any congressional districts. The House delegation currently includes seven Republicans and two Democrats, whose districts center on Nashville and Memphis.

Committee attorney Doug Himes said 30 counties lost population in the 2020 census, versus 17 counties growing above 10%, most in Middle Tennessee. He noted that Tennessee has a growing Hispanic population, as well.

Shelby County, which includes the majority-Black city of Memphis and remains the most populous county, saw a small population increase of 0.2%, or 2,100 people, while multiple counties in West Tennessee saw population drops.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Nashville-Davidson County itself saw a 14.2% population boost, adding about 89,200 people through the decade and checking in at second-most populous in the state, the numbers show. Its suburbs saw a bigger percentage boost, with Williamson County increasing by 35.2%, or 64,500 people, and Rutherford County jumping up 30%, or about 78,900 people. Several other Middle Tennessee counties saw population increases that exceeded 20%.

Himes said people can submit their own redistricting proposals through Nov. 12, though they have to include an entire state map of the state House, Senate or U.S. House. Leaders of several groups, including the League of Women Voters of Tennessee and The Equity Alliance, urged lawmakers to accept maps of individual districts as well, since people who know their communities may not know as much about the state at large.

Republican House Majority Leader William Lamberth said people should not be intimidated by having to submit statewide plans, saying they can note that there's a specific area they are focused on.

Tennessee has grown, Lamberth said. Our numbers have changed. We want to hear from you.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The United States and Mexico restarted high-level economic talks Thursday after a four-year pause as top advisers to presidents Joe Biden and Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador expressed eagerness to make headway on issues important to both nations such as infrastructure, trade and migration.

The talks were launched by Biden in 2013 when he was vice president under Barack Obama but were halted under President Donald Trump, whose hard-line immigration policies complicated the United States relationship with its top trade partner.

Vice President Kamala Harris opened Thursday's meeting with brief remarks in which she sought to emphasize the Biden administration's desire for warmer relations, referring to the Mexican delegation as our friends, our partners." She also stressed the importance of improving relations in a moment when dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, cyber threats and supply chain disruptions are high priorities for both nations.

We are very excited about this next stage of the relationship and partnership between the United States and Mexico, said Harris, who visited Mexico City in June for talks with Lopez Obrador. Mexico is our closest neighbor  and a strategic partner and one of our most important economic relationships. Mexicos economic stability is in the interest of the United States."

Lopez Obrador has faced criticism in recent weeks over images of Mexican immigration agents and National Guard troops having sometimes violent clashes with migrants in the southern state of Chiapas. The migration pressure in southern Mexico as well as at the U.S.-Mexico border led Lopez Obrador to renew his effort to persuade the United States to commit funding to social projects he has implemented in southern Mexico that he says could be expanded to Central America.

He said he sent a letter this week to Biden stressing that people participating in the programs should also be offered work visas in the United States, because Biden will need the labor force to carry out his ambitious infrastructure plan.

Todays meeting is very important so that we initiate a new stage, because there has not been attention to the population that is obligated to migrate, Lopez Obrador said at his daily news conference. There hasnt been in years. Nothing. Everything is contain. Everything is coercion. And that is not how social problems are resolved.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

The U.S. side was represented by Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, USAID Administrator Samantha Power and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar.

Mexico's delegation included Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, Secretary of Economy Tatiana Clouthier, Ambassador to the U.S. Esteban Moctezuma, Under Secretary of Finance Gabriel Yorio, Under Secretary of Foreign Trade Luz Maria de la Mora, Chief Officer for North America Roberto Velasco, and Director General for International Treaties Monitoring, Administration and Compliance Oversight Lydia Antonio.



Associated Press writer Christopher Sherman contributed from Mexico City.
The right to choose is under assault. Texas new heartbeat statute bars all abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. This includes those in cases of rape or incest. It also grants $10,000 and up to bounty hunters who can bring legal action against anyone who helps a woman in defiance of the statute.

In its Whole Womens Health v. Jackson decision on Sept. 1, the Supreme Courts Radical Five majority summarily greenlighted the law. Other red states have already begun copy-cat efforts.

Pro-choice Californians  70% of the state  support a womans right to choose. That majority surely to want to do something to fight to preserve that right across America. And we can. Here are four things Californias Legislature can do right now to put a wrench in Texas efforts to destroy the right to choose.

Make it a felony to impede reproductive rights

In 1969, three years before the Supreme Courts Roe decision, the California Supreme Court held that our states constitution protects a womans right to choose. Theres nothing the Supreme Court can do to change this part of our states constitutional protection, regardless of what happens to Roe. Access to abortion is a civil right in California.

Current California law makes it a misdemeanor, punishable by a year in county jail, to physically obstruct a womans access to reproductive rights. That is an important deterrent in preventing anti-choice activists from hindering abortions in-state. But an even stronger, clearer law is needed to help ensure those energized by the Texas legislation dont ramp up their actions.

The Legislature could enhance existing penalties so that anyone who harasses, impedes or threatens a person seeking their constitutional right to an abortion is subject to five years in a state penitentiary. These protections would apply to visitors who come to California to seek an abortion from states like Texas that have antiabortion laws.

Provide state funding to promote abortion rights and counseling

The fight to preserve the right to choose in America  and to protect and counsel those ensnared by the legal web of anti-choice laws  needs cash. The California Legislature could budget funds to help reimburse state organizations who are spending to support and counsel women directly affected by Texas and other states harsh crackdown on abortion.

Offer refuge to Texas abortion-

seekers and their supporters

Its not far-fetched to imagine a scenario where the neighbor of a 10-weeks pregnant woman needs money and follows her as she and her husband drive to an abortion clinic. After a bit of investigation, the neighbor brings an action and secures a $10,000 judgment against the husband under the Texas law. The couple decides to move to California. Without a change in law, the neighbor can trace them and collect his money using California courts.

California can and should make itself a safe harbor for anyone escaping draconian state anti-choice laws. Our legislators can accomplish this by adopting a statute that says California courts have no jurisdiction to enforce any judgment obtained under a statute that provides a bounty for individuals bringing enforcement actions that are the domain of official state authorities.

Though the ultimate viability of a statute denying enforcement to a Texas judgment is no slam dunk under this Supreme Court, Article IV of the Constitution is meant to establish equal treatment for citizens of all states. The Supreme Court has long held that state legislatures have full control of the jurisdiction they establish for their courts; that is, the kinds of cases courts may entertain. So long as the citizens of the home state cant use their courts for a specified purpose, neither should citizens of other states.

Add another protection for Californians from bounty hunters

Californias Legislature could also amend the states debtor-creditor laws to allow Californians to exempt their property from claims that arise from Texas or other states copy-cat legislation. Imagine an Oakland resident hires a bodyguard to protect her pregnant sister in Texas as she gets an abortion after the six-week threshold. A Texas bounty hunter who tries to collect against the Oakland resident on this abortion would now have a second legal hurdle to jump  a claim that the $10,00 debt is unenforceable under California law.

Of course, all of these ideas to expand and protect the right to choose will be moot should voters recall pro-choice Gov. Gavin Newsom in the Sept. 14 election. Republican Larry Elder, the runaway leading candidate to replace Newsom with only 26% of polled voters support, believes that Roe v. Wade was a bad decision. Were he to become governor, he could veto any new pro-choice legislation and slow-walk enforcement of current protections.

To bolster existing abortion safeguards, and to add new ones in opposition to Texas law, Californians need to vote no on recall.

The term states rights was long the cynical battle cry of the Jim Crow South. Those efforts, however, were highly successful in manipulating the laws of this country for ill. They still are. Its time for California harness those techniques to fight for civil rights instead, especially the right to an abortion.

Dennis Aftergut is a former federal prosecutor and former chief assistant city attorney in San Francisco. He practices law at Renne Public Law Group.
Thousands of dentists arrived at Moscone Center on Thursday for San Franciscos first major convention since March 2020s pandemic closures.

The California Dental Associations annual fall gathering kicked off the citys return to large-scale indoor events, a crucial economic engine for the citys biggest industry, tourism. Moscone Center welcomed the attendees after serving as a centerpiece of the citys pandemic response, previously housing the Department of Emergency Management headquarters, a homeless shelter and a mass vaccination site.

Im really excited about welcoming people to San Francisco, welcoming visitors. Conventions are such an important part of ensuring that San Francisco and our economy continues, Mayor London Breed said at the conference opening, touting the citys high vaccination rate and its award-winning world-class restaurants.

You will eat really good, but make sure you brush your teeth afterwards, she joked to the crowd of dental professionals.

Lea Suzuki/The Chronicle

The Dental Association conference was also the first to be held in San Francisco after the Sept. 11 attacks 20 years ago.

Despite the recent surge in delta variant coronavirus cases, California Dental Association president Judee Tippett-Whyte said the high vaccination rate among dentists and other safety measures made the three-day conference feasible. The city requires all Moscone Center visitors to be vaccinated and wear masks.

Everyones still treading lightly, being cautious, which is important. Thats what we need to do, said Tippett-Whyte, a dentist in Stockton. Some dental staff arent vaccinated and have the option to attend virtually, she said.

Registration was lower than anticipated, she said, with 5,663 registered in-person attendees and 1,242 people registered virtually. In 2018, the event had around 12,000 attendees. There were another 842 vendor staff present at Moscone, showing off the latest dental products in the conventions showroom, down from 2,639 in 2018.

Its hard to predict how many people were going to come and how many visitors or vendors would come, she said. Some of those unknowns make it a little concerning. Are we going to make all the expenses that we have for the meeting?

Roland Li / The Chronicle

Although smaller, the event is a bright spot for a tourism industry that has struggled through more than a year and a half of lockdowns and travel restrictions. A full recovery isnt expected until 2025, with businesses and international travel lagging leisure visitors. Additional events, including Dreamforce later this month and the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in January, have been confirmed, though theyll be scaled back compared to pre-pandemic years.

Benjamin Bae, a branch manager for dental manufacturer Hiossen Implant, was showing off the companys $12,000 dental station and chair to attendees at the conference.

He said the crowds were noticeably smaller than previous years, when people were jammed together. Thursday was also expected to be the slowest day, with many busy dentists unable to take time off.

It feels completely different from a couple years ago, he said. Its kind of discouraging. Were expecting a little more for Friday and Saturday.

There were 165 vendors listed at the conference. Two years ago, there were around 250, Bae said.

Photos by Roland Li / The Chronicle

The company had been relying on online sales and Zoom pitches during the pandemic, and it felt good to be back in person, said Bae, who lives in the Seattle area. But walking around San Francisco was a reminder of how much has changed.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

It feels like a ghost town now, he said. You dont see that energy, that vibe anymore.

Caryl Woodford-Petersen, a dental assistant from Danville, said she was excited to attend and see new dental products.

Its so great to be back and see colleagues, she said, adding that the event felt safe with its vaccination and masking requirements.

Nes Martin Morales, a Daly City dentist, was impressed by a display of dental magnifying glasses with a battery pack attached on the shoulder. He plans to attend a class on root canals later this week.

I was very excited. I havent been to big events in a year and half, Morales said.

The show was noticeably less crowded, he added, but that was also reassuring and made it easier to socially distance.

It was relatively quiet, he said. It does feel safe.

Roland Li is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: roland.li@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @rolandlisf
San Franciscos next major skyscraper  a 61-story mixed-use tower planned for 550 Howard St. in the Transbay District  will break ground in the first quarter of next year and will include a deluxe 180-room Rosewood Hotel, the developer announced on Thursday.

The 800-foot tower, designed by Pelli Clarke Pelli  the same architects that designed the Transbay Transit Center and adjacent Salesforce Tower  will total 1.1-million square feet and include about 250,000 square feet of office space, 170 condos and 79,000 square feet of shared amenity space, the developer said.

The Rosewood Hotel portion of the project will occupy 15 floors with plenty of the high-end bells and whistles that allow the brands Rosewood Sand Hill hotel in Palo Alto to charge between $1,000 and $1,300 a night  a lap pool, spa, indoor/outdoor restaurant, events spaces, patisserie and something called the Manor Club, the brands signature private lounge concept, according to the news release.

Sonia Cheng, chief executive officer of Rosewood Hotel Group, called San Francisco an ideal destination for the Rosewood brand, she said.

As one of the most dynamic and innovative cities in North America, San Francisco offers an eclectic mix of culture, cuisine, art, technology and adventure, she said.

Pelli Clarke Pelli

While it feels incongruous to be plotting the details of a new soaring glass tower at a time when many of the citys existing soaring glass towers sit empty, real estate developers are nothing if not optimistic. The tower will take more than two-and-a-half years to build, with the hotel build-out slated for completion a bit later, in 2026.

The commitment to start construction is especially bold considering the tenant that originally committed to the office space, Salesforce, backed out of the deal because of increased remote work brought on by the pandemic. The 806-foot tower will be the citys fourth-tallest building, The developer is F4 Transbay Partners, a joint venture of Hines, Urban Pacific and Goldman Sachs Asset Management.

Veteran hotel consultant Rick Swig said that San Francisco had a hotel room shortage prior to the pandemic and that is still likely to be the case afterward, assuming Moscone Convention Center will again be bustling and tourists are once again standing in line at the Powell Street cable car turntable. The only new hotel slated to open in the next year is Line, a 232-room boutique hotel at 950 Market St.

If you had asked me before March of 2020 I would have said San Francisco is undersupplied with quality hotel rooms at all levels, from economy up through luxury, he said. At some point in 2024, when we are stabilized, that same shortage will exist. Its about 5,000 rooms.

San Franciscos hospitality market has been among the slowest to rebound nationally, with its revenue per available room dropping 70% from $203 in May 2019 to $62 according to the July report from the American Hotel & Lodging Association.

Drought Map Track water shortages and restrictions across Bay Area Check the water shortage status of your area, plus see reservoir levels and a list of restrictions for the Bay Areas largest water districts.

Two of the citys biggest hotels  the 1,024-room Hilton Parc 55 San Francisco, located near Union Square, and the 1,921-room Hilton Union Square  were both closed for more than a year before reopening earlier this year.

Andrew Robinson, executive director of the East Cut Community Benefits District, said that the hotel would bring more foot traffic to Salesforce Park and would also create high-quality jobs for residents of the affordable housing that make up 30% of the units in the district. Another hotel is planned for 555 Howard St., across from the Rosewood site.

Having two new hotels across the street from each other will only amplify the volume of visitors coming to the neighborhood and exploring the park and the waterfront along the Embarcadero, he said. It will help make the East Cut a destination.

J.K. Dineen is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: jdineen@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfjkdineen
One of the largest water districts in the San Francisco Bay Area is falling dramatically short of water conservation goals amid extreme drought conditions across California.

Santa Clara Valley Water declared a water shortage emergency in June with its reservoirs reaching historically low levels, requiring customers to reduce water use by 15% compared with 2019 levels. In July, the district fell short of the goal with residents only reducing water use levels by 6% compared to 2019 levels, according to newly available data first shared by the San Jose Mercury News.

Santa Clara Valley Water, with 10 reservoirs and about 5,000 wells serving 2 million customers, is a wholesaler, selling water to retailers within the region. The county depends on its reservoirs, which have shrunk dramatically after two consecutive dry winters. It also gets more than half of its water from outside the region and those sources are also drying up.

"In Santa Clara County, its going to be very grim," said Gary Kremen, Valley Water board vice chair and a Silicon Valley entrepreneur who founded Match.com and Clean Power Finance. "Our wells depending on where youre in the county, may start to run dry. ... If were unable to get imported water in and its not looking like theres much water out there, it's going to be grim."

Noting the need for people to conserve more water, he added, "I know we all have crisis overload. This is serious. This is really serious. Its not like Mark Zuckerberg can write some code and fix this problem."

Stanford was the only retailer to meet Valley Water's goal, cutting water use by 15% compared to 2019 levels, while the city of Santa Clara and Mountain View reduced water use by a mere 2%.

Here's a complete rundown of how much all the retailers that purchase water from Santa Clara Valley reduced water use in July compared to 2019:

-City of Santa Clara: 2%

-Mountain View: 2%

-Gilroy: 3%

-Morgan Hill: 5%

-Purissima Hills Water: 5%

-Sunnyvale: 6%

-San Jose Municipal Water: 6%

-San Jose Water Company: 6%

-Great Oaks: 6%

-California Water Service: 7%

-Milpitas: 8%

-Palo Alto: 13%

-Stanford: 15%

While these numbers may seem discouraging, Valley Water spokesperson Matt Keller said things are going in the right direction when you look at where the county stood in March when use was up 25% compared to 2019 levels.

"We knew it would take a little bit of time (few months) to reach that 15% goal as our retailers put their water shortage contingency plans in place," Keller said. "What weve seen so far has been positive, with no water-use increase or plateau."

The water board's Kremen added, "I hoped for more, but Im not surprised. Why? Because it takes time for people to rip out their lawns. Its not instantaneous."

Santa Clara launched several conservation programs, and Keller said that interest in them is promising and that in August, Valley Water received 360 applications for the landscape rebate program, 965 orders for water-efficient devices from its website (a record high) and 230 water waste reports.

Santa Clara Valley Water's 10 reservoirs were over 85% capacity combined in April 2017 after a wet winter replenished supply. At the start of September 2021, the reservoirs are at 12.2% of capacity.

Exacerbating the issue, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ordered that the district drain Anderson Reservoir (pictured at the top of this article), the county's largest reservoir, for public safety. The reservoir is expected to be out of use for 10 years as the district completes a seismic retrofit.

Reservoirs across the state are at historically low levels, and this also impacts Santa Clara Valley Water, which typically imports more than half of its water into the county.

Oroville, the state's second-largest reservoir and a linchpin in the State Water Project that stores and delivers water across California, is at 22% of capacity. Santa Clara Valley Water has an annual allotment of 100,000 acre-feet from the State Water Project, and while the district rarely receives its full allotment, this year it will only get 5,000 acre-feet, Keller said.

San Luis Reservoir, a part of the federal Central Valley Water Project, is at 13% of capacity. The district's allocation of 152,000 acre-feet from the project was cut in May from an initial 55% to 25% of that amount for manufacturing and industrial purposes and zero percent for agriculture.

Keller said Valley Water requested additional water for public health and safety from the Central Valley Water Project. "Based on Reclamations calculation method our 25% allocation is 43,122 acre-feet," Keller wrote in an email. "We will also receive, contingent on the ability to transport the water and environmental regulations, a public health and safety increment of 28,378 acre-feet."

With reservoirs low and allocations reduced dramatically, Kremen said, "Santa Clara County that includes the cities of San Jose, Santa Clara and Palo Alto are probably the worst part of the state [in terms of water] other than way far northern California because of our low storage."

While Valley Water took a big step in calling on residents to reduce water use in June, the measures could become more drastic in coming months for some customers.

Valley Water's largest retailer is San Jose Water, a private utility with 1 million customers. It filed a proposal for a plan with state regulators that would require customers to reduce monthly water use by 15% from 2019 and pay $7.14 in surcharges for every unit of water they use above that amount.

San Jose Water spokesperson Liann Walborsky said the surcharge will only be implemented if it's approved and if water use still isn't meeting goals after all steps to encourage customers to conserve have been expended.

"It's not a decision we take lightly," said Walborsky, noting that the utility will assess the situation in coming weeks.

Kremen said people across the county need to take more steps to reduce water use. "We really have to conserve," he said. "Rip out your lawns, stop washing your car ... I know people dont like that. Its definitely not fun."

Giving the Match.com dating site he founded in 1993 a nod, he added, "You have to mix dating and water conservation. Find someone to take a shower with."
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australia's government confirmed Thursday that it refused to allow climate change goals to be written into a proposed free trade deal with Britain, as pressure mounts on it to make more ambitious commitments to cut carbon emissions.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the trade deal under negotiation with Britain was not the document to include U.N. goals to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial temperatures, and preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit.)

It wasnt a climate agreement; it was a trade agreement, Morrison said.

In trade agreements, I deal with trade issues. In climate agreements, I deal with climate issues, he added.

British ministers had agreed to bow to pressure from Australia to drop binding commitments to the Paris climate change agreement from the bilateral trade deal, Sky News reported citing an email from an unnamed British official sent last month.

The report angered environmentalists who questioned Britains commitment to curbing greenhouse gas emissions ahead of hosting a U.N. climate summit, known as COP26, in Scotland in November.

Trade Minister Dan Tehan said climate targets were never part of free trade agreements that Australia enters into.

This agreement recognizes were signed up to Paris and that well meet our Paris targets, which we will do hands down, Tehan told Radio 4BC.

We got a fantastic outcome both for Australia and the U.K. in that F.T.A., which were seeking to finalize at the moment, Tehan added, referring to a free trade agreement.

Reducing emissions is a politically fraught issue in Australia, which is one of the world's largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The nation is also one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Resources Minister Keith Pitt said in a statement on Thursday that coal remained Australias largest export after iron ore and that wont be changing any time soon.

This followed U.N. Special Adviser on Climate Change Selwin Hart this week urging Australia to phase out coal.

Australia has not budged from its 2015 pledge at the Paris climate conference to reduce emissions by 26% to 28% below 2005 levels by 2030 ahead of climate talks in Glasgow.

The conservative government aims to reduce emissions to net-zero and preferably by 2050, but wont commit to that target.

Opposition leader Anthony Albanese accused Morrison of holding Australia back on renewable energy opportunities to create jobs and reduce energy prices.

The Paris commitments are something that Australia has signed up to, but which Australia continues to sit in the naughty corner with the rest of the world, Albanese said.

The whole world has signed up to net-zero emissions by 2050. Scott Morrison continues to be a recalcitrant when it comes to climate change action, Albanese added.

Greenpeace executive David Ritter accused Australia of diplomatic bullying to weaken the global climate effort.

The Morrison government is resorting to sleazy backroom deals and pressure tactics to shirk the commitments it has made to the world on climate change, Ritter said in a statement.

Jonathan Pershing, deputy to U.S. presidential climate envoy John Kerry, told a climate forum last month it would be really helpful if Australia were more ambitious in reducing emissions.
BERLIN (AP)  Former Volkswagen CEO Martin Winterkorn's trial on fraud charges in connection with the automaker's diesel emissions scandal has been delayed because of health problems, a German court said Thursday.

The Braunschweig state court said it decided to separate Winterkorn's case from that of four other defendants, who are set to go on trial Sept. 16 as planned. Proceedings against the 74-year-old Winterkorn will have to follow at a later date, it said, adding that it isn't currently possible to give a reliable forecast for when he will be able to face trial.
REDMOND, Washington (AP)  Microsoft told employees Thursday that it has indefinitely delayed their return to U.S. offices until it's safer to do so.

Given the uncertainty of COVID-19, weve decided against attempting to forecast a new date for a full reopening of our U.S. work sites," Jared Spataro, a corporate vice president, wrote in a blog post.

Microsoft had already postponed its planned return to the workplace from September to no earlier than Oct. 4, but now says the re-opening won't be next month.

Microsoft employs about 181,000 full-time workers, of whom 103,000 are in the U.S.

Microsoft will wait for public health guidance on when it is safe to return, Spataro said. It will then give workers a 30-day transition period to prepare.

Last month Microsoft said it will require proof of vaccination for all employees, vendors and visitors to its U.S. offices starting this fall.

The tech giant has made a big push since the pandemic emerged to tailor its suite of workplace software products to homebound workers and timed its delayed re-opening announcement with a number of new product features.

A hybrid approach permitting employees to toggle between remote and in-office work has been widely embraced in the technology industry, particularly among the largest companies with the biggest payrolls.

Many tech companies had plans for bringing back most of their workers around Labor Day weekend, but Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon and a growing list of others have already decided to wait until next year.
Evan Vucci/AP

President Joe Biden is set to make his first trip to California as president Monday, Gov. Gavin Newsom's anti-recall campaign announced Thursday morning.

Biden is slated to campaign with Newsom, who is facing a recall election Sept. 14, in Long Beach sometime Monday. The time and venue have yet to be announced. Citing unnamed White House officials, the Los Angeles Times reported that the campaign stop will come after Biden makes two prior stops Monday, one at the the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise and another in Sacramento, where Biden will assess damage from recent wildfires.
Montgomery County hospitalizations related to COVID-19 have passed 400 patients as active cases continue to soar.

Of the 404 patients hospitalized, 97 are in critical care beds.

The Montgomery County Public Health District confirmed 1,382 new active cases bringing the total to an all-time high of 13,756. The countys total COVID-19 cases is now 78,534, a total increase of 2,903. To date 32,079 people have recovered.

Additionally, the number of deaths increased by one to 377 with the death of a Montgomery man in his 70s who had other health conditions when he died in the hospital. He was not vaccinated.

Health officials did confirm the countys testing positive rate has dropped to 20 percent.

In Montgomery County and across the country the delta variant is filling hospitals, sickening children and driving coronavirus deaths in some places to the highest levels of the entire pandemic. Some school systems that reopened their classrooms are abruptly switching back to remote learning because of outbreaks, according to the Associated Press.

The U.S. recorded 26,800 deaths and more than 4.2 million infections in August. The number of monthly positive cases was the fourth-highest total since the start of the pandemic. The U.S. is averaging over 150,000 new cases per day, levels not seen since January. Deaths are close to 1,500 per day, up more than a third since late August. Overall, the outbreak is still well below the all-time peaks reached over the winter when deaths topped out at 3,400 a day and new cases at 250,000 per day.

The U.S. death toll stands at more than 650,000, with one major forecast model projecting it will top 750,000 by Dec. 1.

Anyone with questions about the state funded infusion center in The Woodlands or other COVID-19 related questions can call the countys COVID-19 call center at 936-523-3916.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

cdominguez@hcnonline.com
MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP)  Three New Hampshire ice rinks paid a total of nearly $43,000 in fines after investigators found they violated federal child labor requirements, the U.S. Department of Labor said Thursday.

Investigators found that the North Atlantic Hockey Group LLC, operating as The Rinks at Exeter, misclassified minors as independent contractors. It also owed four employees over $13,000 in unpaid overtime, the department said in a news release.
LEBANON, Ind. (AP)  Three people were found dead inside an apartment in central Indiana, police said.

The victims in Lebanon were found Wednesday night with obvious violent, traumatic injuries, police said.

The public is not believed to be in any immediate danger at this time, the Lebanon Police Department said.

The victims were identified as Grace Bishop, 20, Brannon Martin, 21, and Larry Stogsdill Jr., 42.

Sgt. Ryan Williamson said the deaths might be a murder-suicide. Lebanon is roughly 25 miles northwest of Indianapolis.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP)  Five men accused of planning to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer last year because of her COVID-19 restrictions want to postpone their October trial until 2022.

Attorneys said in a court filing that they're still plowing through hours of audio secretly recorded by informants and FBI agents. They're also investigating recent developments related to the conduct of agents.
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP)  Fifty years after the revolt at the Attica Correctional Facility, unanswered questions still bother those touched by what remains the nations deadliest prison uprising.

What unknown details are buried inside hundreds of pages of records that remain sealed?

And will New York state ever apologize for the pain caused by both the initial riot by inmates and the bloody massacre committed by police and guards as they retook the prison?

I have gone through seven governors now, asking for an apology, said Deeanne Quinn Miller, whose father, William Quinn, was the only guard fatally injured by inmates during the siege at the overcrowded maximum-security prison in rural western New York.

The Attica uprising began Sept. 9, 1971, when inmates upset over living conditions seized control of part of the prison and took members of its staff hostage. It ended four days later, when state troopers and guards shot blinding tear gas into a prison yard, then fired hundreds of rounds into the smoke over the span of six minutes.

The gunfire killed 29 inmates and 10 hostages.

State officials initially claimed, falsely, that prisoners had slashed the throats of hostages as police began storming the prison, and news reports at the time, including The Associated Press, quoted those false accounts. But autopsies a day later found that all the hostages had been shot by their would-be rescuers. Accounts of prisoners having castrated a guard also later proved to be false.

In all, 11 staff and 32 inmates died in the riot and siege. No law enforcement officers were put on trial for their roles in the massacre.

An apology seemed like perhaps the easiest of five demands that Miller and other members of the Forgotten Victims of Attica sought from the state after organizing in 2000 as a voice for slain and injured prison employees and their families.

Their other demands have been met: for financial restitution, counseling, permission to hold an annual ceremony on the prison grounds and the unsealing of riot-related records, although some containing secret grand jury material remain locked.

Any fear of liability that may come with an apology seems moot, Miller said, after a $12 million settlement with the Forgotten Victims in 2005 and an $8 million award to inmates and their survivors.

Im tired, said Miller, who chronicled the uprising's lifelong personal impact in a new book, The Prison Guards Daughter."

I think its particularly poignant that it would come on the 50th, Quinn, who was 5 when her father was fatally beaten, said by phone. When a person hears `Im sorry, and it comes in a way that is genuine and authentic ... you feel like maybe somebody really does care about these state employees and these families that gave everything they had with very little in return.

Gov. Kathy Hochul's office did not immediately respond to questions about whether Hochul might consider apologizing on the state's behalf. Hochul grew up in western New York and once represented Wyoming County, where the prison is located, in Congress.

Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whom Hochul replaced in August, would not, nor did three other former governors who held office while the request was pending: David Paterson, Eliot Spitzer and George Pataki.

The annual commemoration on the prison's front lawn is scheduled for Monday.

State Sen. Zellnor Myrie has proposed legislation allowing for the release of certain grand jury proceeding materials on the basis of enduring historical importance.

The Brooklyn Democrat's bill, which stalled last year, does not specifically refer to the Attica case but Myrie has noted that grand jury proceedings after the uprising resulted in numerous indictments of prison inmates but not against law enforcement.

Supporters point to the release earlier this year of transcripts of grand jury proceedings in Attorney General Letitia James' investigation into the March 2020 death of Daniel Prude, who died after being detained by police in Rochester. It was the first time in New York history that grand jury proceedings in a police-involved death were made public.
Marina Verbitsky arrived at her terminal in Florida's Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night with her husband and son, but they were too late: The plane was about to take off.

Verbitsky told an airline employee she needed to get on the plane because her son had school, a relative told the Chicago Sun-Times. But when told it was too late to board the flight, she began berating JetBlue employees with profanities, according to a police report obtained by Fox News. When employees said her checked luggage was on the departing plane, Verbitsky allegedly became more enraged.

That's when she told airline workers her luggage contained a bomb, officials say.

Verbitsky, 46, was swiftly arrested, the Broward Sheriff's Office said in a statement Tuesday. The plane's takeoff was delayed, and passengers were escorted off before authorities scoured the aircraft for a bomb.

They found nothing.

Verbitsky is now facing a charge of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction, according to the sheriff's office. Her bail was set at $10,000, and a judge ordered her to undergo a mental health evaluation, the Sun-Times reported. Verbitsky posted bail on Tuesday.

"It was a mistake," a relative of Verbitsky, who requested not to be named, told the Sun-Times. "She was nervous about the son needing to go to school. It was a mess but it was definitely not meant to be."

Verbitsky did not respond to phone messages late Wednesday. Court records do not list an attorney.

Verbitsky's alleged threat represents the latest case of airline passengers causing public and often viral disturbances in recent months. She is at least the second person accused of making a bomb threat at the Fort Lauderdale airport in the last two months.

In July, 74-year-old Wegal Rosen was arrested after allegedly telling an employee at the ticketing counter there was a bomb in his bag, forcing the airport to evacuate three terminals, close roads and cancel or delay dozens of flights. Rosen was charged with the same crime as Verbitsky and could face up to 15 years in prison. A judge ordered him not to return to the Fort Lauderdale airport.

A month earlier, federal law enforcement arrested a Georgia man after he allegedly called into Lehigh Valley International Airport in Allentown, Pa., concerned that his daughter was smuggling marijuana on a flight. Frustrated, he asked a Delta employee what they would do if he said there was a bomb on the plane, according to prosecutors. The plane, already on the tarmac, was evacuated, and authorities did not find a bomb or drugs.

Federal Aviation Administration officials have said behavior on airplanes has worsened during the pandemic. In August, the agency said it had received about 3,889 reports of "unruly behavior" by airline passengers, resulting in $1 million in fines against dozens of people.

On Monday, the same day Verbitsky allegedly made the bomb threat, a man was captured on video insisting to be let off an airborne flight bound for Salt Lake City. Video showed him growling and biting his mask. After the plane landed, he was arrested.
NEW YORK (AP)  A week or more after Ida, business owners from Louisiana to Connecticut are still adding up the financial losses and assessing the physical and emotional toll, grappling to find a way forward.

Many say its difficult to figure out the future when theyre unsure of the answers to some immediate questions: When will the power come back on? How long before I get new supplies? When can my business be rebuilt?

Theres no more anxious situation to a business owner than a complete lack of clarity in how to plan, said Pike Howard, director of finance and development for New Orleans-based Felipes Mexican Taqueria restaurants. Many businesses have already dealt with a long stretch of uncertainty due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The amount that weve been tested the past 18 to 24 months its hard to imagine the roller coaster, Howard said. If you didnt have a cash reserve going into this situation, I dont know what you would do.

Some help is being made available. On Monday, President Joe Biden approved major disaster declarations for six New Jersey counties and five New York counties. That follows similar announcements for Mississippi and Louisiana, the initial targets of the hurricane.

Disaster declarations are key for small businesses because that opens the door for federal disaster assistance loans.

By Wednesday evening, crews in Louisiana had restored power to nearly 90% of New Orleans and all of Baton Rouge. But hundreds of thousands of homes and businesses in Louisiana, most of them outside New Orleans, still dont have power. And about half of the gas stations in two major cities were without fuel as of Wednesday.

Rebuilding from storm damage will be a challenge. Building contractors were already facing worker shortages and supply constraints. Ida made those challenges even worse and will lead to higher prices and longer building delays.

Michael Gulotta, who owns two restaurants in New Orleans, said there is little they can do when facing the extensive power outages that Ida wrought.

We were preparing for the storm, down here, we get them so often, you try to pack coolers with ice and hope the power is out for 20 minutes, he said. Once it is, Oh, the power is out indefinitely, theres not a whole lot you can do, at that point, the planning is out the window.

He organized food giveaways at his restaurants, Mopho and Maypop, to help get food to those who need it. Power has been restored and he planned on opening Mopho Thursday, but Maypop will remain closed for a few weeks. He said its harder to get loans and insurance when the problem is business interruption rather than physical damage.

The hard part is I just took a huge loss and no one is getting me money, he said. At this point Im out thousands and thousands of dollars and theres nothing I can do about it.

Some who arent counting on insurance have started fundraising. In the Northeast, a tornado spawned in Idas wake left Wellacrest Farms, a New Jersey dairy farm owned by Marianne and Wally Eachus, nearly demolished. They have counted about 14 dead cows, and 100 are still missing as of Wednesday. A GoFundMe started by fellow farmer Hillary Stecher reached nearly $90,000 by Thursday. The goal is $1 million. The farm has insurance, but Marianne Eachus says she has no idea if it will cover what's been lost.

Howard, who runs three Felipes Mexican restaurants in New Orleans, said his lights were back on and he reopened his three restaurants about noon on Wednesday. But supply disruptions remain. His biggest supplier, Performance Food Group, is in the heavily-damaged city of Houma, and told him it would be at least three weeks before theyre out delivering key limes, chicken, and other items again.

Im concerned about ability to capitalize on when the power comes back on because of supply chain issues and team members still scattered about, he said. He estimates that with food spoilage and at least two weeks of lost operations he could lose as much as $250,000.

Nicole Dorignac, co-owner of Dorignacs Food Center, said the 70-year old grocery store had minor roof and fencing damage. The bigger problem was making sure her staff of about 175 were okay.

Many evacuated, she said. Many are coming home to a lot of destruction to their houses. A lot of water damage and roof damage.

About 55 employees have come back for limited hours since the store reopened last Wednesday. Many employees are still dealing with storm damage and power outages and stuck at home waiting for insurance adjustors or tarps for their roofs. The store is only open limited hours until more employees can return.

We had a disaster crew skeleton crew, she said. We have some that live nearby that come literally hell or high water.

Krista Pouncy-Dyson, owner of digital media marketing company Performance 1st Digital Media, said her five staffers were already working from home before the storm so they knew how to communicate remotely. But multiple crises take a toll.

Theres an emotional component to all of this, we are in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic and we have to navigate that on top of a category 4 hurricane, she said. Its immensely difficult.

Dyson is also the chairwoman of New Orleans Regional Black Chamber of Commerce. Surveying minority and black owned businesses, theres a distinct need for working capital micro loans, access to fuel, just the basics, she said.

Theres also the fear that people, or potential customers, will leave the area. After Katrina, a lot of people just didnt come back, she said. The citys population shrank from half a million to less than half of that. Now, it is around 390,000.

What is this going to look like a month from now, are people going to start canceling contracts because people relocated? she asked. Those are concerns business owners are thinking about.
ATHENS, Greece (AP)  A year ago Thursday, on Sept. 9, Greeces notoriously squalid refugee camp of Moria burnt down on the island of Lesbos, leaving nearly 12,000 people in need of emergency housing as winter approached.

As the camps remnants smoldered, European leaders vowed such squalid facilities would be a thing of the past. But aid agencies say the conditions for asylum-seekers on Greek islands have barely improved.

A year after the (European Unions) promises for a new start in the migration issue, European and Greek leaders continue to deny asylum-seekers, refugees and migrants seeking safety in Europe their dignity, while the catastrophic plan for the construction of centers that resemble prisons on the five north Aegean islands continue, medical aid group Doctors Without Borders, or MSF, said in a statement.

Greek officials argue the situation is far better than it was last year.

A year ago, an unprecedented humanitarian crisis was averted in Moria," Migration Minister Notis Mitarachi said in a statement Thursday. The fire that broke out threatened the lives of thousands of people and destroyed the camp completely. Under extremely difficult conditions, in just a few days, we managed to build a temporary facility.

That facility, in the Mavrovouni area of Lesbos, is still housing those left homeless by the fire.

It was an emergency solution, but infrastructure projects and interventions are continuing till today so as to improve living conditions, Mitarachi said, putting the number of people living there now at 3,338.

The vast overcrowding of Moria was eased as several other European countries agreed to take in some of the most vulnerable among the camp's residents in the aftermath of the fire, notably unaccompanied minors and some vulnerable families, while the Greek government speeded up asylum procedures to move people off the islands.

Despite the far reduced numbers in Mavrovouni, aid agencies and people living there say conditions are poor, with the camp prone to flooding and lacking many basic services. Construction of a new camp has been held up by delays.

A new camp, however, is nearing completion on the island of Samos, where hundreds of people have been living in and around an overcrowded facility on the edge of the islands main town.

Mitarachi said the new Samos camp, scheduled to open this month, will have high tech security measures and safeguarded decent living conditions."

But rights groups have criticized the construction. Some liken it to a prison, noting its remote location in the mountains of Samos and strict controls of who can go in and out.

In Greece, the future appears more dystopian than ever, as those who manage to cross the sea continue to live in miserable camps on the Greek islands, said Konstantinos Psykakos, head of MSFs operation on Lesbos.

It is a tragic irony that as the world watches the recent developments in Afghanistan, the EU and Greece are inaugurating a new center-prison that will trap refugees on the island of Samos, Psykakos said in a statement. This is the best proof of the harshness of the EUs migration policies.

Under a 2016 deal reached between the European Union and Turkey, migrants arriving on Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast must remain on those islands until their asylum applications have been processed, after which they can either move to the mainland or be deported.

The deal, designed to stop a mass movement of asylum-seekers that saw around a million people crossing into the EU in 2015, blocked people on the islands, leading to massive overcrowding and appalling conditions.

Greece has hardened its stance on migration, anxious to avoid a repetition of the 2015 refugee crisis and alarmed by Turkeys actions last year, when the government announced its borders to Europe were open and sent thousands of migrants to the Greek border. It has increased patrols along land and sea borders and toughened legislation on asylum and the action of aid groups.

It has also been broadly accused by rights groups and migrants of carrying out illegal summary deportations of people arriving on Greek islands from the nearby Turkish coast, rounding up the new arrivals, putting them on life rafts and pushing them back into Turkish waters without allowing them to apply for asylum.

The government vehemently denies it engages in the practice known as pushbacks, despite increasing indications to the contrary. It does, however, say it robustly protects its borders and denies entry to those attempting to cross illegally.

We managed to regain control. We reduced flows, we reduced residents, we minimized the impact on local communities, Mitarachis said, adding that Greece's migration policy had "turned an uncontrollable crisis into a manageable situation.

Last week, the human rights commissioner of the Council of Europe, the continents top human rights body, called on Greek lawmakers to withdraw articles from legislation being voted on that impose heavy penalties on nongovernmental organizations carrying out unsanctioned rescue operations of migrants at sea.

The Council of Europes human rights commissioner, Dunja Mijatovic, said the changes would seriously hinder the life-saving work carried out by NGOs. The legislation passed.

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Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Alabama said it will allow a death row inmate's pastor to hold his hand during a lethal injection next month, a decision that was made to end litigation over the issue.

Lawyers for Alabama wrote in a June court document that inmates can now have a personal spiritual adviser present with them in the execution chamber and the adviser will be allowed to touch them. The agreement settled litigation over Alabama inmate Willie Smith's request to have his personal pastor with him as he is put to death. Smith was convicted of the 1991 kidnapping and murder of 22-year-old Sharma Ruth Johnson in Birmingham.

According to court documents, Smith's spiritual adviser can: anoint the inmate's head with oil; pray with the inmate and hold his hand as the execution begins, as long as the adviser steps away before the consciousness assessment is performed; and remain in the execution chamber until the curtains to the witness rooms are drawn. The description was included in a footnote in a joint filing in June by the state and Smith's attorneys in which the two sides announced they had reached an agreement over the spiritual adviser issue.

The case is one of a series of legal fights over personal spiritual advisers at executions. A Texas death row inmate won a reprieve Wednesday evening from execution for killing a convenience store worker during a 2004 robbery after claiming the state was violating his religious freedom by not letting his pastor lay hands on him at the time of his lethal injection.

Alabama officials in February called off Smith's execution after the justices maintained an injunction issued by the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals saying he could not be executed without his pastor present in the chamber.

Alabama officials wrote in a court filing that the state recognized its policy restricting access to the execution chamber to institutional chaplains was unlikely to survive further litigation" and that it had reached an agreement to allow Smith's pastor to be with him in the chamber.

Alabama has rescheduled Smiths execution for next month.

The state wrote in court filings that it will inform other inmates of their opportunity to select a spiritual adviser to accompany them in the execution chamber. However, it noted that the pastor will not be in the chamber when the time of death is called to protect the privacy of the person who performs that function.

In the past, Alabama routinely placed a Christian prison chaplain employed by the state in the execution chamber to pray with an inmate if requested. The state stopped that practice after a Muslim inmate asked to have an imam present. The prison system, which did not have a Muslim cleric on staff, maintained until recently that nonprison staff would not be allowed in the chamber.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California Gov. Gavin Newsom will get a boost in the final days of a campaign that is trying to kick him out of office from the nation's most prominent Democrat: President Joe Biden.

Biden will join the first-term Democratic governor in the Southern California city of Long Beach on Monday, the day before voting ends. He's the last of a string of prominent Democrats who have come to the deep-blue state to assist Newsom as he faces a recall election.

Vice President Kamala Harris, a California native, campaigned alongside him Wednesday, and former President Barack Obama appeared in a campaign ad urging Californians to vote no on the recall.

Biden's visit, his first to California since taking office in January, underscores the importance of his party maintaining the governorship in the nation's most populous state, which has the fifth-largest economy in the world. California has been the breeding ground for progressive policies on climate change, immigration and more. Beyond Harris, a handful of Biden's Cabinet members have roots in the state.

Newsom also has been one of the most aggressive governors when it comes to the coronavirus, mandating that children wear masks in school and that health care workers get the vaccine. His restrictions on businesses and schools have been a driving force behind the recall as the pandemic remains a dominant force in American life during the first year of Biden's presidency.

The visit also gives Biden a chance to demonstrate his political clout amid a difficult stretch of his presidency following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. A poll by the Public Policy Institute of California taken from Aug. 20-29 showed 58% of Californians approve of Biden's job performance. A terrorist attack in Afghanistan killed 13 U.S. service members and many more Afghans on Aug. 26.

The California Republican Party criticized Harris' visit, saying it was inappropriate for her to campaign while Californians remain stuck in Afghanistan. On Thursday, an estimated 200 foreigners, including Americans, left Afghanistan on a commercial flight out of Kabul.

Talk radio host Larry Elder, the GOP frontrunner in the recall, said Harris and Biden were trying to distract attention from Newsoms record on widespread homelessness, rising crime and long-running school and business closures during the pandemic.

All California voters received ballots in the mail. The ballots have two questions: Should Newsom be recalled and, if so, who should replace him? He'll be removed from office if more than half of voters want him gone.

Bidens stop in the state is part of a two-day trip to the Western United States. Hell stop Monday in Boise, Idaho, to visit the National Interagency Fire Center and then head to Sacramento, California, to survey wildfire damage before appearing with Newsom.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said Thursday that Biden wants to highlight how wildfire season has become a year-round event, and how one in three Americans  or nearly 100 million people  have been affected by various forms of severe weather this year.

Scientists say climate change has made the American West much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

Biden also will visit Denver on Tuesday to promote his economic agenda.

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Associated Press writer Darlene Superville in Washington contributed to this report.

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See APs complete coverage of the California recall election: https://apnews.com/hub/california-recall
FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AP)  The body of a 78-year-old northern Virginia man was found buried in his backyard Wednesday and his son has been charged with second-degree murder, police said.

Truman Nguyen was reported missing on Monday, news outlets reported. But after an associate reported that the son may have harmed his father, the son was interviewed and that led to the discovery of Nguyens body, Fairfax County police said The body will be sent to the medical examiner for positive identification and to determine the cause of death.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A prison guard and two others have been charged with a scheme to smuggle contraband cell phones into California's death row, authorities said Wednesday.

Keith Christopher, a 37-year-old corrections officer at San Quentin State Prison, is charged with conspiracy to commit honest services fraud using interstate wires, the U.S. attorney's office said in a statement.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California public schools and colleges would have to stock their restrooms with free menstrual products under legislation sent Thursday to Gov. Gavin Newsom as womens rights advocates push nationwide for affordable access to pads, tampons and other items.

The bill by Democratic Assemblywoman Cristina Garcia builds on her 2017 law requiring low-income schools in disadvantaged areas to provide students with free menstrual products.

Several other states were considering or have required free menstrual products in public schools, according to advocacy group Womens Voices for the Earth. Purdue University in Indiana decided last year to offer free feminine hygiene products in campus bathrooms.

Garcia also had prompted California to follow the lead of at least 10 states by exempting menstrual products from sales taxes, which she said cost women a collective $20 million a year as other health items like erectile dysfunction medication were exempt.

The advocacy group says more than half the states still tax menstrual products as a luxury item. Worldwide, many countries have eliminated such taxes, including Britain, Australia, Canada and India.

The new California legislation expands the 2017 law to grades 6 to 12, community colleges and the California State University and University of California systems, starting in the 2022-23 school year. It encourages private schools and colleges to follow suit.

There were no registered opponents and few opposition votes.

Often periods arrive at inconvenient times. They can surprise us during an important midterm, while playing with our children at a park, sitting in a lobby waiting to interview for a job, shopping at the grocery store, or even standing on the Assembly floor presenting an important piece of legislation," Garcia said in a statement.

Convenient access, she said, "would alleviate the anxiety of trying to find a product when out in public.

She said her measure was inspired by Scotland, which last year declared access to menstrual products to be a human right and required public places to provide them free of charge.

Ideally, Garcia said, menstrual products would be as common in restrooms as toilet paper and paper towels.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Firefighters scrambled Friday to quash fires ignited by lightning as thunderstorms with mostly small but welcome amounts of rain rumbled across drought-stricken Northern California, where forests have been burning for weeks.

Firefighters were diverted from the huge Caldor Fire south of Lake Tahoe to fight multiple overnight lightning fires throughout El Dorado County, according to the local unit of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

The largest of those fires erupted in heavy brush in the steep terrain of Kanaka Valley. Rain from the storm cell helped firefighters and the fire's spread was stopped at less than 7 acres (2.8 hectares), Cal Fire said.

Another fire believed to have been sparked by lightning was burning in Mendocino County, north of San Francisco Bay. The Press Democrat reported it covered 8 acres (3.2 hectares) Friday morning.

Lightning blitzes can have disastrous outcomes in parched California. Last year's record amount of land burned included huge Northern California fires that were ignited when remnants of a tropical storm unleashed thousands of bolts.

A cluster of 2020 lightning fires known as the August Complex burned more than 1,615 square miles (4,182 square kilometers) and is considered the largest California wildfire on record.

The National Weather Service said there were more than 1,100 cloud-to-ground lightning strikes in California between Thursday evening and Friday morning, including 110 in the Bay Area. Cloud-to-cloud flashes were too numerous to count.

Rainfall from the thunderstorms was no drought-buster but was welcome anyway.

The official downtown San Francisco rain gauge recorded 0.01 inch (0.25 millimeters) of rain by 5 a.m., marking the first time it has rained there on Sept. 10 since 1978, the weather service said. The most recent measurable September rain in the city happened in 2019.

In the Central Valley, Sacramento Executive Airport received 0.05 inch (1.27 millimeters) of rain by 8 a.m. The last time at least that much rain fell was 175 days earlier on March 18, the weather service said.

Thunderstorms with downpours also moved through parts of Southern California on Thursday and early Friday, triggering flash flood concerns for burn scars of past wildfires.

The threat of new lightning-sparked fires came as more than 13,000 firefighters were working to rein in 13 major fires and more than 12,700 residents were still waiting to return to evacuated homes, according to state agencies.

The Caldor Fire, the 15th-largest in state history, was 53% contained after burning more than 341 square miles (883 square kilometers) and destroying more than 1,000 structures, including hundreds of homes.

In the northern Sierra Nevada and southern Cascades, the Dixie Fire covered more than 1,485 square miles (3,846 square kilometers). Second in size to the August Complex, it has destroyed more than 1,300 structures.

Cal Fire, meanwhile, announced that a fire that destroyed 142 structures in the Sierra last month was human-caused but that investigators were still working on details. The River Fire began Aug. 4 in a Placer County campground and burned 4 square miles (10.4 sq.km.) before it was contained Aug. 13.

A historic drought and recent heat waves tied to climate change have made wildfires harder to fight in the American West. Scientists say climate change has made the region much warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.

President Joe Biden will survey fire damage during a visit to California next week in which he will also campaign for Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who faces a recall election on Tuesday.
CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (AP)  Rhode Island's smallest city has a new slogan.

Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera announced Thursday that her city will now carry the tagline Diversity that Inspires.

Rivera says the new slogan honors the city's distinction as Rhode Island's most ethnically diverse city. It's intended to replace Central Falls' unofficial nickname as the Comeback City, which it earned after filing for bankruptcy in 2011. It emerged from bankruptcy the following year.

The new slogan was selected by an all-volunteer branding committee.

Located north of Providence, Central Falls is a city of 20,000 that occupies a little more than 1 square mile.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)  The Wyandotte County District Attorney has decided not to retry a Catholic priest who was charged with molesting a young girl.

Rev. Scott Kallal was charged with two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child after a mother reported in July 2017 that he had inappropriately touched her 11-year-old daughter at St. Patrick Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas.
Hundreds of mourners, including law enforcement officers from across the nation, gathered at an outdoor music theater in Connecticut Thursday for the funeral of a state police trooper who was swept away in floodwaters from the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

Sgt. Brian Mohl, a 26-year veteran of the department, was working the overnight shift when he called for help around 3:30 a.m. on Sept. 2, saying his vehicle had become trapped in rising flood waters near the Pomperaug River in Woodbury.

Dive teams found his empty vehicle in the river just after daybreak. Sgt. Mohl, who was 50, was found an hour later further down the river.

Sgt. Brian Mohl pursued what was good and right for decades along the highways and back roads of this state, Rev. Michael Dolan, a state police chaplain, told mourners at the Xfinity Theater in Hartford. In a moment, that pursuit concluded and we find ourselves here.

Mohl was remembered as a hard working, blunt, straight-shooting trooper who loved the midnight shift. He also was eulogized as a kind and generous family man and friend, who had a nickname for everyone. He loved shopping in bulk at Costco, giving gifts and teasing those he loved.

His younger sister Laura Singh remembered how he would sneak around her house changing the toilet paper rolls in the bathrooms so that they pulled from underneath rather than over the top.

Another of his sisters, Frances Gordon, said her brother always seemed to be working.

It's not a surprise to me that his way of leaving us was via the job, she said. Service to the greater good, right?

Mohl is survived by his wife, Susan, a 14-year-old son, two stepchildren and three grandchildren.

He is is the 25th Connecticut trooper to die in the line of duty since the agency was formed in 1903, the department said.

An honor guard fired a 21-gun salute and a bugler played taps as the funeral concluded, before a final call was transmitted across the state police radio system to thank Mohl for his service.

Your brothers and sisters will take the watch from here, it concluded.

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This story corrects the spelling of Sgt. Brian Mohl's name.
CLEVELAND (AP)  Lawmakers in Ohio's Republican-dominated Legislature violated the state constitution when they added and approved a last-minute provision that eliminated gun owners' duty to retreat when facing threats, according to two Democratic lawmakers, the Ohio branch of the NAACP and a grassroots organizing group that filed a lawsuit Thursday.

The lawsuit filed in state court in Columbus seeks to repeal the law signed by GOP Gov. Mike DeWine in January.

The amendment was improperly added during the final hours of the Legislature's two-year session in December to what had been a largely bipartisan bill giving nonprofits and other organizations civil immunity when someone with a concealed carry license causes injury or death on their property or at events, the lawsuit said.

The stand-your-ground provision is unconstitutional, the lawsuit said, because lawmakers voted on it without three days of hearings and violated a law that says legislation should be limited to similar subjects.

Our laws protecting the democratic process exist for good reason, and well use all the tools at our disposal to hold accountable those who violate them, said Rep. Stephanie Howse, a Cleveland Democrat who joined the lawsuit with Sen. Cecil Thomas, of Cincinnati. Given the well-founded concerns Ohioans have about this policy, its no surprise that its backers could only pass it when they shut the public out of the process."

The lawsuit names Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost as the lone defendant. Spokesperson Steven Irwin said the Attorney General's Office is reviewing the lawsuit.

The NAACP said eliminating the duty to retreat makes it easier to kill human beings without the perpetrators facing any legal consequences," a problem that would especially imperil human beings who are Black Ohioans.

Black Americans experience disparate outcomes, including for example in the criminal justice system, where Stand Your Ground laws exacerbate disparities in outcomes between shootings of Black and white victims, with shootings of Black victims deemed justified much more frequently than shootings of white victims, the lawsuit said.

The Ohio Organizing Collaborative said the new law would require it to retrain canvassers on how to remain safe while engaging in nonpartisan voter education and grassroots community organizing.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday it would seek to restart a process that could restrict mining in Alaskas Bristol Bay region, which is renowned for its salmon runs.

The announcement is the latest in a long-running dispute over a proposed copper-and-gold mine in the southwest Alaska region.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in November 2020, under the Trump administration, denied key authorization for the proposed Pebble Mine following an environmental review from the agency months earlier that the developer had viewed as a favorable to the project.

In the rejection decision, a corps official concluded the project would result in significant degradation of the aquatic ecosystem and that it was contrary to the public interest.

The Pebble Limited Partnership, the mine developer owned by Canada-based Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd., is appealing that determination.

As the Biden Administration seeks lower carbon emissions for energy production, they should recognize that such change will require significantly more mineral production  notably copper, Mike Heatwole, a Pebble partnership spokesperson, said in an email. The Pebble Project remains an important domestic source for the minerals necessary for the administration to reach its green energy goals.

Restrictions on mining in the region were proposed but never finalized under the Obama administration.

In 2019, during the Trump administration, Matthew Leopold, who was EPA general counsel, directed then-regional administrator Chris Hladick to decide whether to move forward with the proposed restrictions or withdraw them.

Hladick withdrew them and the agency at the time said it was removing what it called an outdated, preemptive proposed veto of the Pebble Mine and allowing the project to be vetted through the permitting process.

Earlier this year, a divided appeals court panel, in a case challenging the 2019 action, concluded a regional administrator was allowed to take the actions Hladick did only if the discharge of materials would be unlikely to have an unacceptable adverse effect.

The matter was sent back to a lower court to determine if the EPAs action was arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion or contrary to law.

U.S. government attorneys, in a court filing Thursday, said the EPA acknowledges that it did not address the standard that the Ninth Circuit subsequently determined must be met for withdrawal of a proposed determination.

The EPA, in a statement, said it is asking the judge to vacate the 2019 action. If granted, it said that would automatically reinitiate" the review process, through which mine-related activities could be restricted or prohibited.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan called the Bristol Bay watershed an Alaskan treasure that underscores the critical value of clean water in America. Todays announcement reinforces once again EPAs commitment to making science-based decisions to protect our natural environment.

He added: "Whats at stake is preventing pollution that would disproportionately impact Alaska Natives, and protecting a sustainable future for the most productive salmon fishery in North America.

The EPA has said Bristol Bay supports the world's largest sockeye salmon runs and that the watershed contains significant mineral resources.

Nelli Williams, Alaska director for Trout Unlimited, one of the groups that sued over the 2019 action, said proposed restrictions would provide an important layer of protection that makes it much more difficult for the Pebble Partnership, or any other companies in the future, to mine the Pebble ore deposit.

Northern Dynasty President and CEO Ron Thiessen, in a statement Thursday, said the Pebble project "can be designed, built and operated with industry-leading environmental safeguards while generating significant financial returns over multiple decades.

The company touted a preliminary economic review it said also looked at potential expansion possibilities and alternative ways to recover gold.

But the statement said neither Northern Dynasty nor the Pebble partnership has proposed or intends to propose any of these development alternatives in the near-term for regulatory approval.

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This version corrects the spelling of the first name of the director for Trout Unlimited.
GREENBELT, Md. (AP)  A former Maryland police officer accused of sexually assaulting a woman after a traffic stop is now facing a federal charge.

A federal grand jury indicted Martique Cabral Vanderpool on Wednesday, charging him with deprivation of civil rights under color of law, The Washington Post reported. He was charged last year in Maryland with first-degree rape, reckless endangerment, misconduct in office and other offenses. Police said Vanderpool was HIV-positive and he was accused of knowingly attempting to expose someone to the virus.

Vanderpool allegedly deprived the woman of the right to be free from unreasonable seizure by a person acting under color of law, which includes the right to be free from unwanted sexual assault by a police officer, federal prosecutors said. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Vanderpool, who was working for Fairmount Heights Police, stopped the 19-year-old woman, who didn't have a driver's license, Vanderpool called to have her car impounded, police said. At the station, Vanderpool threatened to take her to jail if she didnt have sex with him and, feeling unsafe and without a way to leave, she agreed, according to charging documents.

An attorney for Vanderpool didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
DALLAS (AP)  Gov. Greg Abbott, in defending Texas' near-ban on abortions, says women and girls who are raped won't be forced to give birth because the new law "provides at least six weeks for a person to be able to get an abortion.

But that's not how pregnancy works.

The Texas law  which the U.S. Supreme Court allowed to take effect Sept. 1  bans abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity, which is usually around six weeks into a pregnancy. However, six weeks into a pregnancy does not mean a woman has six weeks to make a decision.

Here's a look at the new Texas law viewed as the biggest affront to the constitutional right to an abortion in decades:

WHEN WOULD SOMEONE KNOW SHE'S PREGNANT?

A positive pregnancy test does not mark Day 1 of a pregnancy. Instead, gestational age is measured by the first day of a woman or girl's last period. A typical menstrual cycle is 28 days, although many people have irregular cycles that are longer or shorter than that. Ovulation  when an egg is released from an ovary and conception is most likely  occurs around the midpoint of the cycle.

Typically, women dont test for pregnancy until after theyve missed a period. Those with irregular cycles or unplanned pregnancies may not learn of the pregnancy until after the six-week mark.

Extra-sensitive pregnancy tests can sometimes detect a pregnancy about five or six days before a missed period. That means someone who has regular periods and is carefully tracking her cycle could know of a positive result no earlier than about four weeks into a pregnancy. That would give her two weeks or less to get an abortion in Texas.

This law does not give you six weeks after you have discovered you are pregnant, said Amy Jones, the chief executive officer of the Dallas Area Rape Crisis Center.

Jones said she was confused by (Abbott's) statements and disheartened.

Confusing information about this law really sets a survivor up  to have a misunderstanding of what to expect should they need to seek out services to terminate a pregnancy, and I think that can be shocking and perhaps retraumatizing, she said.

HOW MANY WOMEN AND GIRLS COULD BE AFFECTED BY THIS LAW?

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission says about 15% of the about 55,000 abortion procedures performed in Texas in 2020 were at less than six weeks gestational age. That's about 8,000 abortions.

The state's numbers are in line with the assertion from abortion providers that the law would bar at least 85% of abortions in Texas. In 2020, that would have been about 47,000 abortions.

Abbott, a Republican, made his comments Tuesday at a press conference when asked whether the new law would force someone who was raped to carry the pregnancy to term since it does not require exceptions for rape or incest. He replied: It doesnt require that at all, because obviously it provides at least six weeks for a person to be able to get an abortion.

Abigail Aiken, an associate professor at the University of Texas at Austin who studies reproductive health, explains that someone may not realize their period is late for a few days or even a week "and that brings you up to about five weeks already.

And then after that  you might need some time to make a decision about what you want to do about that pregnancy, and then you have to navigate the obstacle course that Texas law has already put in place when it comes to accessing in-clinic abortion in this state, Aiken said.

State law requires people seeking an abortion to make at least two visits to an abortion clinic, waiting at least 24 hours to return after the initial visit. Other requirements include ultrasounds and counseling materials.

During the press conference, Abbott also pledged to eliminate all rapists from the streets. Abbott's office did not respond to subsequent requests for comment.

WHAT ARE THE DETAILS OF THE TEXAS LAW?

The law allows any private citizen to sue Texas abortion providers who violate the law, as well as anyone who aids or abets a woman or girl getting the procedure. Abortion patients themselves, however, cannot be sued.

The person who sues does not have to have a connection to the person getting an abortion. And the person who brings the lawsuit is entitled to at least $10,000 in damages if they prevail in court. Texas Right to Life, the states largest anti-abortion group, launched a website to receive tips about suspected violations and says it has attorneys ready to bring lawsuits. However, the website remained down Thursday, days after host GoDaddy kicked it off, saying it violated the companys terms of service.

A spokeswoman for Texas Right to Life noted the website is mostly symbolic since anyone can report a violation and because abortion clinics appear to be complying with the law.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

A case is still proceeding in the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, though the timing of future action is unclear.

The Supreme Court declined to block the law from taking effect while that case makes its way through the legal system. In its 5-4 ruling, the court emphasized that it was not addressing the constitutionality of the law  only that those seeking an emergency stay had not met the high burden to block it.

On Thursday, the Justice Department sued Texas over the law, arguing that it was enacted in open defiance of the Constitution. The lawsuit asks a federal judge to declare that the law is invalid.

___

Bleed reported from Little Rock, Arkansas.
AKRON, Ohio (AP)  A prosecution witness in the latest trial of a man accused of killing nine people in separate arson fires in his Akron neighborhood says surveillance video shows a man making repeated attempts to start a fire at one of the residences.

Bradley Barkhurst, an analyst with the Ohio state fire marshals office, testified Wednesday at the trial of Stanley Ford, who could be sentenced to death if convicted on multiple aggravated murder charges. He is accused of killing a couple in 2016 and two adults and five children in 2017 .
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  A former city commissioner who once ran the Florida Democratic Party was sentenced to five years in federal prison for taking money from Uber and undercover FBI agents in exchange for his influence.

Former Tallahassee Commissioner Scott Maddox pleaded guilty in 2019 to wire fraud, mail fraud and conspiracy to commit tax fraud. The sentencing was delayed while Maddox and co-defendant Paige Carter-Smith cooperated with investigators in the prosecution of a local developer.

U.S. District Court Judge Robert Hinkle said that cooperation played a part in issuing a sentence below federal guidelines that called for between five years, 10 months and seven years, three months in prison.

But Hinkle said the crime was serious, and that the real problem with bribery ... is that it undermines confidence, it undermines faith in the system.

Paige Carter-Smith, Maddox's longtime associate, pleaded guilty to the same charges and received a two-year prison sentence.

Prosecutors said that Maddox would send clients to Carter-Smiths lobbying firm after he returned to the city commissioner in 2012, and she would then pay Maddox for his influence. Maddox was first elected to the commission in 1990 and later served as the Tallahassee mayor until 2003. He has been a Democratic candidate for governor, attorney general and agriculture commissioner. He was chairman of the Florida Democratic Party from 2002 to 2005.

Maddox was ordered to pay the Internal Revenue Service $76,763 and Carter-Smith was ordered to pay the IRS $115,619. Each was ordered to forfeit $70,000 to the federal government.

The court found that the pair accepted $30,000 from the ride-hailing and delivery company Uber and $40,000 from the undercover agents posing as developers in exchange for influence. When the pair pleaded guilty, an Uber spokesperson said the company didn't bribe Maddox, but was rather a victim of extortion.

Maddox and Carter-Smith told Hinkle that they each went into public service to do good and to serve people, but they eventually crossed a line. Maddox said he justified taking the money because he knew he was going to vote the same way regardless.

Undercover FBI agents investigated Maddox for two years, which included a booze-filled trip to Las Vegas, where the agents took Maddox to a strip club. Maddox told Hinkle his reaction to hearing himself on FBI tapes, drunken and slurring and bragging about how big he was.

I'm deeply, deeply ashamed that I did that, he said. I deserve everything I'm going to get, whatever you decide to do."

He said he lost his reputation, his law license, all of his money and caused his family to suffer by being drunk and stupid.

Several supporters asked Hinkle for leniency, saying Maddox has done a lot to make Tallahassee a better city, from improving roadways to creating a dog adoption program. They recounted individual help he gave people not for the attention, but to do what's right.

But federal prosecutor Peter Nothstein said whether an elected official does good or bad, the crimes Maddox committed were harmful.

That corruption shook this community to its core, he said.

Hinkle agreed that because of Maddox and Carter-Smith's actions, people might question the motives of people who serve the public for the right reasons.

Carter-Smith was in tears before Hinkle, describing how she used to lobby for non-profit groups and worked to help people's lives before crossing the line.

That wasn't who I was, but it was who I became, she said.  I absolutely knew better and I was wrong.

Last month, local developer and businessman John J.T. Burnette was convicted of extortion and other charges as part of the FBI probe. Maddox and Carter-Smith testified at his trial. He is schedule to be sentenced next month.
R368LRH/AP

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP)  A Florida woman convicted of helping mastermind the killing of her husband more than two decades ago was sentenced Thursday to 30 years in prison after a previous life sentence was tossed on appeal.

A Leon County circuit judge handed down the sentence for Denise Williams, rejecting arguments from her attorney that she was only a minor participant in the plot to kill her husband, the Tallahassee Democrat reported. Williams, 51, was convicted in 2018 of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The 1st District Court of Appeal vacated the first-degree murder conviction last fall, which meant a resentencing was needed for the conspiracy charge.
IUKA, Miss. (AP)  A former state social worker has pleaded guilty to sex crimes involving young people that were under her care, authorities said.

Former Department of Child Protection Services employee Lauren Rose Cavness pleaded guilty Wednesday to three charges, The Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal reported.
NEW HAVEN, W.Va. (AP)  A former employee of a West Virginia city faces embezzlement and other charges, officials said.

Roberta Hysell, 53, of New Haven, was charged by a Mason County grand jury on Tuesday, WSAZ-TV reported. New Haven Mayor Phil Serevicz said Hysell served as the town recorder and police clerk.
PARIS (AP)  France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday.

The measure will also include free medical visits about contraception, and will start Jan. 1, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced on France-2 television.

All contraceptive methods were already free for girls up to 18 years old, and that is being expanded to all women up to 25. Abortions in France are free for everyone.

Veran said young women are using contraception less than they used to, and that the main reason is financial. He didn't cite specific data. Frances state health care system covers some birth control costs but not all of them.

Its intolerable that women arent able to to protect themselves, arent able to use contraception if they make that choice, because it would cost too much, Veran said.

The measure will cost the government about 21 million euros (nearly $25 million) per year, he said.

Finally! tweeted Alyssa Ahrabare of activist group Osez le feminisme. The high price of medical consultations and contraception blocks access for several women to this essential right that allows them to keep control of their bodies and lives.

The health minister didn't address contraception methods for men, or specify whether the measure would apply to trans and nonbinary people. The Health Ministry did not respond to queries seeking clarification.

Several other European countries offer free or subsidized contraception. Contraceptive methods cost nothing in Britain, for example, and Spain's health system provides funding for 48 different birth control methods, and those administered in health centers are free.
NEWARK, N.J. (AP)  An investment fund manager from Philadelphia has admitted orchestrating a $100 million securities fraud scheme, federal prosecutors in New Jersey announced Thursday.

Brenda Smith, 61, faces up to 20 years in prison and a $5 million fine when she is sentenced Jan. 20. She pleaded guilty to a securities fraud count.

Prosecutors said Smith operated the scheme from February 2016 through August 2019, using her investment fund, Broad Reach Capital. They say she lied to investors about the funds assets and performance.

Smith collected more than $100 million in investments, prosecutors said, but instead of investing the money as promised, she diverted millions for other purposes, including paying other investors.
CRESTWOOD, Ill. (AP)  A suburban Chicago mayor is expected to plead guilty in a corruption investigation involving red-light cameras, his lawyer said Thursday.

A federal judge set a hearing for Oct. 29, five weeks before a scheduled trial, after remarks by attorney Thomas Breen, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

Crestwood Mayor Louis Presta was charged with bribery, tax crimes and lying to agents. He's accused of accepting an envelope of cash in 2018.

A former Illinois state senator, Martin Sandoval, pleaded guilty in 2020. He was accused of accepting about $250,000 to protect the interests of a red-light camera company. He died last December.

Red-light cameras record drivers at certain intersections, which can lead to tickets.

Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza last year said her office would stop collecting fines against drivers. She said poor and minority motorists appear to be most affected by the $100 tickets, which can double if not timely paid.

Mendoza also noted the federal investigation.
HERINGTON, Kan. (AP)  The Herington police chief and an assistant police chief are facing misdemeanor trespassing charges after an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

The KBI announced Wednesday that Chief John V. Matula, 36, was issued a summons to appear in Dickinson County District Court on charges of criminal damage to property and criminal trespass. Assistant Chief Curtis M. Tyra, 43, was issued a summons for alleged criminal trespass.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  When Idaho public health officials announced this week that northern hospitals were so crowded with coronavirus patients that they would be allowed to ration health care, roughly 11,000 kids in Coeur d'Alene were packing lunches, climbing on buses or grabbing backpacks for their first day of school.

Very few of them  maybe 2% or 3%, based on one district spokesman's estimate  were wearing masks.

Kootenai Health, the hospital at the epicenter of the region's COVID-19 health care crisis, is just a 10-minute walk from the Coeur d'Alene School District's headquarters. It has 200 beds for medical or surgical patients, but on Wednesday  the second day of school  Kootenai Healths doctors and nurses were caring for 218 medical and surgical patients, aided by military doctors and nurses called in to help with the surge.

On Thursday  the third day of school  the hospital tallied 109 COVID-19 patients, including 37 requiring critical care. The hospital normally has just 26 intensive care unit beds.

Meanwhile, Idaho's vaccination rates remain among the lowest in the U.S., and coronavirus cases have grown by 44% in the last two weeks as the highly contagious delta variant burns through the population. It's basically a math problem that adds up to a potential disaster.

We're at risk of getting more patients," Dr. Robert Scoggins, Kootenai Health's chief of staff, said during a news conference Wednesday afternoon. There's no mitigation in place in our school systems at this point, and I'm concerned about what's going to happen ... and how that will affect the care of COVID patients and non-COVID patients.

School outbreaks have been a problem in other states with much higher vaccination rates than Idaho. More than 80 people at Kamiakin Middle School in Kirkland, Washington, were told this week to stay home until notified because they came in contact with two students who tested positive for COVID-19. More than 85% of the eligible people in the area east of Seattle are fully vaccinated, according to local health officials.

And in Oregons Lake Oswego school district, more than 40 students are in quarantine because they were exposed to COVID-19 on a school bus. About 67% of adults are fully vaccinated in Clackamas County, where the school is located, according to state health officials.

In Kootenai County, which includes Coeur d'Alene, only 41% are fully vaccinated. Still, like the vast majority of school districts in northern Idaho, Coeur d'Alene is not requiring masks or other steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Many in the extremely conservative region have been adamantly opposed to mask mandates since the pandemic began. During one Coeur d'Alene school board meeting last month, some attendees held signs, booing or cheering the speakers. Three of the five school board members said they preferred to recommend wearing masks as a personal choice.

We are highly concerned. I mean, we're already seeing the effects of the delta variant, said Panhandle District Health spokeswoman Katherine Hoyer on Thursday. This is really going to take our community being responsible to protect each other and our health care facilities. We never wanted to reach crisis standards of care, yet here we are.

During last winter's surge, the Panhandle Health District worked with schools on contact tracing. Hoyer said the Coeur d'Alene School District was especially helpful for cases involving students.

But this year, the public health district has jettisoned traditional contact tracing after the case backlog became hopelessly huge. Now the agency does smaller investigations for priority populations only: health care providers, long-term care facility residents and workers, and students and school staffers.

Coeur d'Alene School District spokesman Scott Maben said the school system has also ended contact tracing.

We don't have the resources to do it this year, Maben said. We are definitely relying on people to self-report to us.

That could be a problem. Hoyer's agency has run into several families that refuse to say which school their COVID-19-positive child attends. Last school year, Maben saw families knowingly send kids with COVID-19 to school and extracurricular activities.

The school district can send the child home for mandatory quarantine if it knows about a positive coronavirus test, but again, relies on families to disclose the information.

We're urging people to stay home until it's safe to be around others, but we also know that a lot of families believe that a lot of these concerns are exaggerated and their kids need to be in school, Maben said. That's an ongoing frustration with us.

Kids are far less likely than adults to become seriously ill from coronavirus. Roughly 188 children statewide have been hospitalized with the virus since the pandemic first came to Idaho, according to numbers from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. But kids, like adults, can easily pass the virus to others, and in a state where only half of the residents are fully vaccinated, a schoolhouse outbreak could quickly become a major problem, said Dr. David Peterman, a pediatrician and CEO of Primary Health Group in southwestern Idaho.

We have evidence all over the world that when children go to school and masks are not required, that coronavirus spreads among those children and into the community, Peterman said.

Most schools in the region where Primary Health runs 21 urgent care and family medicine clinics started two or three weeks ago, and many districts in the area didn't require everyone to wear masks.

We are now reporting out on a regular basis two to three hundred new cases or more, Peterman said, compared to about 10 new cases a week at his clinics in early July. "There is no question that this has coincided with children being back in school.

In southwestern Idaho, the state's largest school district started classes a couple of weeks ago requiring masks but allowing parents to opt out." More than one-third of the West Ada School District's 40,000 students opted out.

On Wednesday, a popular high school history teacher at the school district died of COVID-19. At a scheduled meeting later that day, the West Ada School Board said the district would temporarily require masks for everyone, regardless of whether they opted out, until at least Sept. 24, the Idaho Statesman reported.

As one of the largest organizations in the Treasure Valley, as well as state, we believe that we have a public health obligation, Superintendent Derek Bub said. Implementing a mask requirement for students and staff is one way that West Ada can make a positive contribution to the community.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  Indiana Republicans will show next week just how far theyll go in pushing their political control over redrawing the states congressional districts.

The big question is whether they will focus on shoring up the suburban Indianapolis district that U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz narrowly kept in Republican hands last year to maintain their 7-2 control of Indianas U.S. House delegation.

A more aggressive approach could see them try to carve up the northwestern Indiana district now held by U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan with the aim of ending Democrats decadeslong dominance there and gaining another GOP seat as Republicans look to regain U.S. House control in the 2022 midterm elections.

Republicans have commanding majorities in both the Indiana House and Senate, giving them full control of the once-a-decade redistricting process under which new congressional and legislative districts are decided based on 2020 census data.

They are slated to release on Tuesday proposed congressional and Indiana House maps drawn behind closed doors, with a timeline for final approval in about three weeks. Democrats and voting-right activists criticize that fast-tracked process as giving the public little time to study and comment on the new maps and question the move by legislative Republicans to hire a high-priced legal consultant from Washington.

Indiana is keeping its nine U.S. House seats, while Illinois, Michigan and Ohio are all losing a seat starting with next years election.

But there will be plenty of reshuffling of Indianas district maps as more than half of the states 92 counties lost residents over the past decade, and Indianapolis and its surrounding counties saw about three-quarters of Indianas population growth.

Those shifts mean Spartzs district must shed about 51,000 people while Democratic Rep. Andre Carsons Indianapolis district has 33,000 people too many. On the other end of the equation, the southwestern Indiana district of Republican Rep. Larry Bucshon needs to pick up 39,000 people and GOP Rep. Greg Pences eastern Indiana district is 30,000 people short.

A possible scenario is shifting the northern tier of Marion County from Spartzs district to Carson to boost her reelection prospects as Democratic candidate Christina Hale won 63% of that areas vote in last years election. Spartz, however, received 55% of the vote in the rest of the district that includes fast-growing Hamilton County to win the election by an overall 50%-46% margin over Hale.

There are plenty of Republican-friendly voters to spare as Indianas other six GOP House members all won their 2020 elections with at least 61% of the vote.

I think that the bulk of the city of Indianapolis population is going to likely be in one district, said Carol Rogers, who analyzes census data as co-director of Indiana Universitys Indiana Business Research Center. So, the surrounding counties could wind up being carved up among two or three or maybe even four congressional districts.

State Republicans have given little sign of their redistricting inclinations other than saying that they will follow federal law, along with aiming to keep the new districts compact while avoiding splitting communities between districts.

Republican map drawers would likely have to split up cities along and near Indianas Lake Michigan shoreline if they wanted to soften up the longtime Democratic hold on the 1st District for a possible GOP capture. Republicans havent mounted a serious challenge for the seat in decades, but with Mrvan having just won his first term in 2020 now might be their chance.

National Republicans would certainly like an opportunity to gain an Indiana seat although such a move could weaken the GOP's strength in other districts, said Mike Murphy, a former Republican state lawmaker and Marion County GOP chairman.

I would advise against it because there is a distinct temptation in politics when you get the power to get too greedy, Murphy said.

Democrats and voting-rights activists have protested the move by Indiana House Republicans to hire Washington-based attorney Jason Torchinsky as a $1,300-an-hour legal adviser on the redistricting process. They point to his work defending Republican-drawn maps in other states and with GOP-oriented redistricting advocacy groups such as the National Republican Redistricting Trust and the Fair Lines America Foundation.

Common Cause Indiana executive director Julia Vaughn criticized Torchinskys work as more political than legal to assist with partisan gerrymandering.

Republican state Rep. Tim Wesco of Osceola, chairman of the House elections committee, defended the hiring as a necessary protection.

Federal law is extremely complex, and we have to be very careful on how we go through that process and make sure that we do it right and do it legally, Wesco said.

Legislative Republicans held nine public redistricting hearings around the state last month without any proposed maps for review. The only hearings planned with the maps in hand will start the day after they are released on Tuesday and will only be held on weekdays at the Statehouse in Indianapolis.

Vaughn and other activists have unsuccessfully pushed for more hearings outside Indianapolis, arguing for more than the bare minimum required by law.

People can see, they can feel their democracy slipping away, Vaughn said. They are looking for you to save it.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  Iowa Republican legislators and the governor prohibited mask mandates in schools for purely political reasons to appease complaining constituents, a lawyer representing a mother and her sons argued Thursday.

The popularity of the governor and the legislature is the reason for it, said Dan McGinn, a Council Bluffs lawyer who is representing Frances Parr.

Parr, the mother of twin boys, sued the state, Gov. Kim Reynolds and several state officials last month in Polk County District Court. She wants a court to order the state to issue a universal mask mandate for all students and school personnel until a voluntary plan can be implemented that separates mask-wearing students and staff from those who refuse.

The hearing focused on whether Judge Celene Gogerty should issue a temporary injunction to prevent the state from enforcing the law while the case proceeds. Gogerty said she would consider arguments and issue a ruling soon.

Assistant Attorney General Sam Langholz argued that lawmakers have many reasons to keep school boards from enacting mask requirements, including concerns about the effects masks have on a child's communication, development and relationships. He said lawmakers might have wanted to alleviate the burden of school boards handing the politically hot issue of masks.

However, none of those issues came up as lawmakers quickly pushed through the bill on the last evening of the legislative session in May with no committee meetings or opportunity for public input.

McGinn argued there are no medical, educational or scientific justifications for the law.

He said during debate that lawmakers only complained about mask mandates and they just wanted to get it off the books and forbid communities from having mask mandates to appease people.

Parr asserts that the law Reynolds signed violates her constitutional rights. She claims education is a fundamental right and therefore courts must find the Legislature had compelling interests in passing the law and narrowly tailoring it to meet those interests.

Langholz said there is no fundamental right to education in Iowa and he asserted it's unlikely the Iowa Supreme Court would conclude that if asked.

The state has filed a motion to dismiss the case, arguing Parr has no standing to challenge the law. A separate hearing will be set to argue that motion.

Parr's sons were set to start first grade in the Council Bluffs Community School District this fall, but she is teaching them at home over fears for their safety.

Iowa is among nine states that have banned schools from implementing universal mask mandates either by passing a law or by a governor's executive order.

A group of parents of disabled students filed a separate lawsuit last week seeking to strike down Iowas law, arguing it endangers their health and denies equal access to education. The lawsuit is backed by the American Civil Liberties Union and disability rights organizations.

The U.S. Department of Education also has launched investigations into whether the Iowa law and similar measures in four other Republican-led states illegally discriminate against students with disabilities or health conditions.

A Florida judge ruled Wednesday that the state cannot enforce a ban on public schools mandating the use of masks to guard against the coronavirus, while an appeals court sorts out whether the ban is ultimately legal.
VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP)  A judge in southwest Washington state has granted an injunction prohibiting protests, rallies or other gatherings that disrupt educational services near public schools in the district.

Vancouver School District officials said they sought the injunction after people protesting a school mask requirement left the public sidewalk and came onto the Skyview High School campus Friday, prompting lockdowns at several schools.

Our district understands and supports free speech and the right for people to be involved in peaceful protests, Superintendent Jeff Snell said in a news release. However, our first priority is to ensure student and staff safety and an educational environment free of disruption. This responsibility prompted us to present our concerns to the court.

Before the protest, Oregon Public Broadcasting reported members of Patriot Prayer, a far-right group based in Vancouver, and other far-right activists had incorrectly claimed in posts online that a student at the school who did not want to wear a mask would face arrest if they entered school grounds.

A video posted online showed a group of people outside the school chanting U-S-A and showed people wearing black and yellow clothing regularly worn by members of the Proud Boys, a far-right extremist group with ties to Patriot Prayer.

Snell said more protests were planned for this week.

Clark County Superior Court Judge Suzan Clark issued the injunction on Tuesday, which bars protests within 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) of Vancouver schools. It will remain in effect until a statewide mask mandate in schools, issued by Gov. Jay Inslee to slow the spread of the coronavirus, ends.

Counter-demonstrators, mostly students, held signs in support of the schools and masks on Tuesday and Wednesday, The Columbian reported. Some students described hearing the chanting of protesters from inside classrooms and being called names as they walked past protesters.

Snell told the newspaper the district has also increased the number of school resource officers at the high school.
GRAHAM, N.C. (AP)  The organizer of a North Carolina get-out-the-vote rally last year that ended with police pepper-spraying and arresting participants has been convicted of resisting an officer and failing to disperse at law enforcements command, but a judge ruled that he did not riot.

Judge Lunsford Long announced the verdict Wednesday at the end of a two-day trial for the Rev. Greg Drumwright, The News & Observer reported. The charges are misdemeanors.
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP)  Kentucky lawmakers, many not wearing masks, voted Thursday to scrap a statewide mask mandate in public schools and shifted masking decisions to local school boards, acting in a special session as the state's worst COVID-19 surge threatens to overwhelm hospitals.

The GOP-dominated legislature set education policies in response to disruptions caused by the virus, which has forced dozens of school districts to close classrooms. The masking provisions sparked emotional debate on the third and final day of the special session called by the Democratic governor to address the pandemic.

Gov. Andy Beshear responded late Thursday night by vetoing portions of the bill nullifying mask mandates for K-12 public schools and child-care centers. Republican lawmakers quickly overrode his vetoes, completing their work to end statewide mask mandates.

Lawmakers ended the special session soon after that.

Beshear's veto message referred to masks as a safe and effective way to combat the spread of COVID-19. The governor previously issued statewide mask mandates and recently said he thought another mask order was needed to confront the current surge.

The special session marked a power shift in the states response to the virus. Throughout the pandemic, Beshear acted unilaterally in setting statewide virus policies, saying his actions saved lives. Republicans branded his actions as overly broad and stringent.

The special session comes as Kentucky's hospitals struggle with a record influx of virus cases. Beshear warned Thursday that only 90 adult intensive care beds were available statewide. He noted nearly two-thirds of Kentucky's hospitals face critical staffing shortages, and more than 300 Kentucky National Guard members will be headed to 21 hospitals to assist health care workers.

Our hospital situation has never been more dire in my lifetime than it is right now, Beshear said.

Working late into the night, Republican lawmakers asserted their newfound dominance in shaping Kentucky's pandemic policies  the result of a state Supreme Court ruling last month. The court cleared the way for laws to take effect limiting the governors emergency powers to impose virus restrictions. The governor responded by calling the legislature into session.

The school-related bill nullified the state school boards requirement that anyone in public K-12 schools wear a mask. It also ended a separate state mask mandate for child-care centers.

Another bill winning final passage Thursday night imposed a prolonged ban on any statewide mask mandate, leaving masking decisions up to local governments and businesses. It was part of a broad measure addressing medical staffing, vaccines, tests and treatments related to COVID-19.

Beshear also vetoed mask provisions in that bill. Republican lawmakers swiftly overrode that veto as well.

The legislature also passed a measure to appropriate more than $69 million in federal funds for pandemic-related efforts. The funds are aimed at increasing COVID-19 testing for health care providers, schools, health departments and correctional facilities. The governor signed that measure into law, his office said.

During debate on the schools bill, supporters said mask decisions are best left to local boards, to reflect the will of their communities.

This bill will give local control back to the districts  not mandating they do, not mandating they don't," said Republican Sen. Max Wise, the bill's sponsor. "They make the decision of what they think is best for their constituents in their communities.

Opponents warned that lifting the mask mandate would put children and school staffs at greater risk of contracting COVID-19. By putting the burden on school boards to decide mask policies, Democratic Sen. Karen Berg said the legislature was abdicating its responsibility.

I think you are asking for fights in school board meetings, where parents are going to be intimidated, where school board members are going to be intimidated, Berg said.

Sen. Morgan McGarvey, the chamber's top-ranking Democrat, said removing blanket masking protections comes when the delta variant is infecting more young Kentuckians. More than 300,000 Kentucky students aren't old enough to receive COVID-19 vaccinations, he said.

This bill ... is really a life-and-death bill, Democratic Sen. Reggie Thomas said. If we eliminate mask mandates, then we are putting all children and all school personnel at severe risk.

In the House, Democratic Rep. Pamela Stevenson warned the virus is so pervasive that the lack of masking requirements in schools would mean that children are going "into the lion's den.

Republican Rep. John Blanton countered that the bill removes a one-size-fits-all approach.

We are not taking masks away from your children today, he said. Masks are still part of the tools that's provided for each and every school district across this state.

Beshear had asked legislators to give him authority to, at a minimum, require masking when COVID-19 infection rates reach high levels.

The school measure gives districts more scheduling flexibility to cope with virus outbreaks. It allows local school leaders to limit remote instruction to a particular school, grade or classroom  depending on the extent of the outbreak  instead of closing the entire district. The overriding goal is to keep children in class when possible, Wise said.
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP)  Environmental groups contend four Kennebec River dams are violating federal law by harming endangered Atlantic salmon.

Brookfield Renewable U.S. is violating the federal Endangered Species Act because an exemption spelling out limits on the death and injury of salmon expired in 2019, according to a lawsuit by the Natural Resources Council of Maine, Atlantic Salmon Federation U.S., Conservation Law Foundation and Maine Rivers.

The lawsuit, filed Thursday, asks a federal judge to find that Brookfield Renewable is operating the dams illegally and to take appropriate steps to protect the salmon. Brookfield didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from The Associated Press.

The lawsuit represents the latest twist when it comes to the fate of the four dams, including the Shawmut Dam.

It has been a roller coaster ride since the Mills administration took a step toward removing the dams before backing down after Brookfield sued.

Maine environmental regulators then threatened to deny a water certification before backing down again when Sappi North American said it could lead to the dam's removal and closure of a paper mill in Skowhegan.

Brookfield has filed a new certification request, triggering another yearlong review process.

Gov. Janet Mills, meanwhile, said she will not allow the mill to close because of its economic importance.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  A lawyer who has filed lawsuits challenging mask mandates in two Kansas counties is demanding that a Kansas City-area school district revise its COVID-19 policies, arguing that they violate state and federal laws.

Attorney Ryan Kriegshauser told the Gardner-Edgerton school district in southwestern Johnson County this week in a letter that he is representing students and parents in the district. He said continuing to enforce the policies would be evidence of willful illegal conduct against students.
TURNER, Maine (AP)  A father was charged with murder in the death of his 2-month-old daughter last year in Turner, officials said.

Trevor Averill, 27, was arrested on Wednesday after a grand jury indicted him on charges of depraved indifference murder and manslaughter, police said.
GEORGETOWN, S.C. (AP)  A man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for breaking into six South Carolina homes during the 2018 mandatory evacuation for Hurricane Florence.

Coleman Jack Tudor's DNA was found in one of six Pawley Island homes he burglarized and stolen items from the houses were found in a storage unit he was renting, prosecutors said in a news release.
DENVER (AP)  A man who was charged after human remains were found in two large suitcases near a trail in southwest Denver has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder.

The Denver District Attorney's Office announced Thursday that 29-year-old Benjamin Satterthwaite struck a deal with prosecutors and acknowledged killing 33-year-old Joshua Lockard.
COLLEGE PARK, Md. (AP)  A man who threatened to kill a member of Congress from Maryland over Republicans baseless claims of a rigged presidential election was sentenced on Thursday to serve eight consecutive weekends in jail and six months of home confinement.

U.S. District Judge Richard Bennett also ordered Sidhartha Kumar Mathur, 35, of West Friendship, Maryland, to perform 100 hours of community service. Mathur threatened Rep. Andy Harris, the only Republican member of Maryland's congressional delegation, in voicemail and webmail messages.

Harris said the death threats against him and his family terrified his wife and children, leaving them afraid to leave their home and basically imprisoned."

"I'm in an elected office. I expect threats like this may occur, especially in the current toxic political environment. That certainly doesn't make it right, but threatening a family and children is particularly wrong, Harris said during Thursdays remote sentencing hearing.

Mathur apologized for his actions and told the judge that he hopes to be a antidote to the root dysfunction that is going on in the world outside" and a unifying force against polarization.

Bennett ordered Mathur to serve his first of eight consecutive weekends in jail starting on Oct. 1.

You became part of the toxic environment, and it is totally unacceptable in a civilized society," the judge said. Elected officials and their families should not be subjected to that kind of treatment in any way, shape or form.

Prosecutors and defense lawyers jointly recommended a sentence of two years of probation instead of a prison term. Prosecutors also asked for Mathur to serve six months of home detention and 100 hours of community service.

Mathur was charged in December with threatening a federal official. He pleaded guilty in June to making false statements.

Harris was the only member of the states congressional delegation who supported former President Donald Trumps efforts to overturn the outcome of the 2020 presidential election based on unfounded claims of voter fraud.

In December, Harris was one of 126 House Republicans who signed a brief supporting a Texas lawsuit that sought to overturn President Joe Bidens victory. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected the lawsuit.

In a message submitted through the congressmans website on Dec. 10, Mathur threatened to kill the lawmaker and blow up his office if you try to take my vote away, according to prosecutors.

I know where you and your family lives. You will be ended, he wrote, referring to the congressman as an animal that needs to be tortured and skinned alive.

Mathur submitted the message using contact information and an address for a former neighbor and classmate, but investigators traced the threat to the internet service at Mathurs home, prosecutors said.

About two minutes after he sent the webmail message, Mathur called the congressman's district office and left a voicemail message in which he threatened to slit his throat and kill his family if you even mess with my vote, according to prosecutors. Mathur also mentioned the Republicans who supported the Texas election lawsuit. Investigators traced the call to a phone number registered in Mathur's name.

When U.S. Capitol Police investigators questioned him at his home on Dec. 11, Mathur said he left the threatening voicemail message out of anger and wouldnt hurt anybody, according to prosecutors. But he falsely denied making the webmail threat, prosecutors said.

Mathur didnt have a criminal record before this case.

Sadly, political violence of all stripes has become a clear and present danger to public safety and the functioning of our democracy, prosecutors wrote in a court filing. The defendants conduct showed his rejection of that democracy and his willingness to resort to repeated violent threats when duly elected representatives take actions with which he disagrees.

Prosecutors compared Mathur's actions to those of a Maryland man who pleaded guilty in February 2020 to threatening to kill a Democratic member of Congress from Florida who sponsored vaccination requirements for public school students. That defendant, Darryl Albert Varnum, was sentenced to six months of home detention.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  Mayor Ted Wheeler confirmed Wednesday that state law prohibits Portland from requiring police officers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 despite a new city mandate.

Wheeler told The Oregonian/OregonLive hes disappointed that all city employees can't be held to the same vaccine requirement and urges police to get vaccinated.

The Portland Police Bureau has said it doesn't have vaccination rates for its officers.

The city attorneys office said Tuesday the order requiring police to be vaccinated had become legally dubious because of new guidance from the Oregon Health Authority.

Under Oregon law, local municipalities can only issue vaccine mandates for police officers if a federal or state rule requires it. The city believed Gov. Kate Browns vaccination mandate issued in August for state health care workers covered police because they receive some medical training as part of their job.

But the guidance said officers are most likely exempt because providing medical care is likely not a fundamental part of their job.

Last week, the Portland City Council said it decided that by Sept. 10 the citys approximately 6,800 employees would have to submit proof of vaccination, show they are in the process of being vaccinated or apply for an exemption. If not they could lose their jobs.

The City will continue to implement its vaccine requirement, but will ensure it is consistent with state law, Wheeler said.
BERLIN (AP)  Chancellor Angela Merkel said Thursday that her party is fighting and was always aware that it wouldn't automatically hold on to Germany's top job after her 16 years in power, downplaying alarming poll ratings as the country's election nears.

Recent polls have shown Merkel's Union bloc under would-be successor Armin Laschet in second place behind the center-left Social Democrats, with very low support of around 20%. It is running short of time to turn things around before the Sept. 26 parliamentary election.

Merkel has largely stayed out of the campaign, though she has made a number of interventions lately  most recently, assailing the possibility of a future left-wing administration and trying to boost Laschet in an unusually partisan speech to parliament on Tuesday.

Asked at a news conference Thursday whether she was worried about her record being sullied by her party losing the chancellery, Merkel replied that we are in the middle of the election campaign and I can see that (it is) really fighting.

She added that what happens on election day counts, so she won't speculate.

It was clear to everyone in the CDU and CSU that we wouldn't get into the chancellery again automatically and without effort after 16 years, Merkel said. She was referring to her Christian Democratic Union, which Laschet now leads, and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union.

Markus Soeder, the Bavarian governor and CSU leader who earlier this year battled with Laschet for the nomination to run for chancellor, told news agency dpa that if there is still a chance to break the trend, then it's this weekend.

He was referring to a CSU party congress being held on Friday and Saturday  and likely also the second of three televised debates between the three candidates for chancellor, which will be held on Sunday. The first debate on Aug. 29 failed to lift Laschet.

The Social Democrats have benefited from the relative popularity of their candidate, vice chancellor and Finance Minister Olaf Scholz, in the first election since 1949 in which there is no incumbent seeking reelection. Polls show the environmentalist Greens, whose co-leader Annalena Baerbock is making their first run for the chancellery, in third place.

Merkel said in 2018 that she wouldn't seek a fifth term. Scholz lately has tried to portray himself as her natural successor, even though he belongs to a different party.

At the same time, the Union has issued increasingly frequent warnings that Scholz, a centrist figure, would form a coalition including the hard-left opposition Left Party, which dislikes NATO and opposes German military missions abroad. Scholz hasn't ruled that out, but it clearly is not his favored option.

Asked what she appreciates about Scholz, Merkel replied tersely: that when we discuss and agree on something with each other, we both keep to it.

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Follow APs coverage of Germanys election at https://apnews.com/hub/germany-election
BUNKER HILL, Ind. (AP)  The death of a Miami Correctional Facility inmate found deceased in his prison cell has been ruled a homicide, Indiana State Police said Thursday.

An autopsy conducted Tuesday determined 42-yeasr-old Matthew Koch of Vanderburgh County died from blood loss from multiple stabbings, police said.
Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP

DETROIT (AP)  Attorneys are seeking $204,000 in fees for successfully defending Detroit and Michigan from a post-election lawsuit filed by lawyers aligned with former President Donald Trump.

The tally filed Wednesday came two weeks after a judge said the lawyers, including Sidney Powell and L. Lin Wood, would pay a penalty for pursuing the case. The final figure will be determined later.
ST. LOUIS (AP)  Missouri's Republican-led Legislature could soon be considering legislation similar to a new Texas law that bans most abortions, and abortion-rights advocates protested that prospect Thursday before a bill was even written.

About 200 abortion-rights protesters rallied on the steps of the old St. Louis courthouse against the possibility of further restrictions on the procedure.

Karla Stribling, 56, of Warrenton, said she's worried that the Texas law  the most restrictive in the nation  would become a blueprint for Missouri and other states.

The Texas law prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity, which usually happens around six weeks, before some women know theyre pregnant.

The Justice Department on Thursday sued to overturn the Texas law, and courts have blocked similar restrictions elsewhere. But Texas law leaves enforcement up to private citizens through civil lawsuits, which could help it survive legal challenges.

At less than six weeks, a lot of women dont know theyre pregnant, Stribling said. Its going to be so hard to get an abortion and only the wealthy will be able to get one, like in the past. Its all going backward.

Republican Rep. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, of Arnold, said she plans to file a bill based partly on the new Texas law. It's likely many others will follow suit in the heavily Republican state Legislature, especially heading into 2022 elections as GOP candidates look to capitalize on their conservative credentials.

Missouri lawmakers in 2019 passed a bill that would ban abortions as early as the eighth week of pregnancy, but it's entangled in legal battles. A hearing on the case in federal appeals court is scheduled for Sept. 21.

Coleman said she hopes to enact legislation that won't perpetually be tied up in legal challenges. She plans to craft a bill that, as in Texas, would allow private citizens to sue abortion providers.

It would be the next piece of making sure that Missouri is abortion free," Coleman said. Were doing everything we can to realize that goal and will continue to do so.

Any legislative action on abortion is still months away.

Republican Gov. Mike Parson has said he doesn't plan to call lawmakers back for a special session before their regular legislative session begins in January. Parsons spokeswoman repeated that he has no plans for a special session on abortion following the U.S. Supreme Courts decision this month to allow the Texas law to take effect.

Republican lawmakers in at least half a dozen states have said they planned to introduce bills using the Texas law as a model, hoping it provides a pathway to enacting the kind of abortion crackdown they have sought for years.

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Ballentine contributed from Columbia, Missouri.
FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AP)  Zacarias Moussaoui remains the only person ever convicted in a U.S. court in connection with the Sept. 11 attacks. A behind-the-scenes look at the trial Thursday from its lead participants demonstrated how hard it was to bring it to justice.

Rob Spencer, the lead prosecutor on the Moussaoui case, recalled the battles he and others in the Justice Department fought to keep Moussaoui in civilian courts at a time when military prosecutors and others wanted him to face a tribunal at Guantanamo Bay.

When things werent looking rosy for us on the prosecution, we would joke to each other that you could hear the Black Hawk helicopter coming to pick him up and take him to Gitmo, Spencer recalled Thursday during an online panel hosted by federal prosecutors in Virginia. The forum was part of a commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, who presided over the case, said there were points during the trial that she and her clerks believed prosecutors wouldn't even clear the first hurdle with the jury and be able to prove that Moussaoui was legally eligible for the death penalty.

And then Moussaoui took the stand, Brinkema said.

He claimed that he was supposed to have hijacked a fifth plane and flown it into the White House, a claim he later recanted. And on cross-examination, he reveled in the deaths, mocking victims and family members.

He basically just blew their defense out of the water, Brinkema said. "Once he started talking, I thought, He just lost them (the jury)."

Moussaoui was arrested in August 2001, before the attacks, when his efforts to obtain advanced flight training drew suspicion. He was charged in December as being a member of the al-Qaida conspiracy that carried out the attacks that killed 3,000 people.

It took years to work through various pretrial procedural issues, including a period where Moussaoui served as his own lawyer and filed handwritten screeds against the judge and others under the guise of legal motions. Appellate courts weighed in several times on how to handle classified evidence, including statements from al-Qaida leaders like Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, which were obtained under enhanced interrogation techniques that many said were equivalent to torture.

Moussaoui actually pleaded guilty to the charges against him, so the 2006 trial was simply to determine whether his sentence would be life in prison or death. In the first phase of the trial, prosecutors had to prove that Moussaoui's role in the conspiracy led to the deaths of Sept. 11 victims, making him eligible for the death penalty.

Once he was determined to be eligible, the jury then considered whether he deserved the death penalty.

The jury found him eligible for execution, but one of 12 jurors voted for life in prison rather than execution. That was enough to keep Moussaoui off death row; he's serving a life sentence in Colorado.

Ed MacMahon, one of Moussaoui's court-appointed lawyers, recalled that the only viable strategy was to tell the jury that Moussaoui was embellishing his role within al-Qaida, and that executing him would only give him the martyrdom he craved.

Moussaoui's exact role in the Sept. 11 conspiracy remains imprecise. In broad strokes, Spencer said, Moussaoui's guilt was obvious: He was receiving flight training that he had no rational reason to be taking, and he received $10,000 from Ramzi bin al-Shibh, a key member of the Sept. 11 plot, a month before the attack.

Spencer said prosecutors believed Moussaoui was to serve as a backup pilot to Ziad Jarrah, the Flight 93 pilot who left the U.S. in the summer of 2001 to visit his girlfriend and may have been having second thoughts about participating.

I dont know what role, if any, he would have served on 9/11 or perhaps a follow-on plot, Spencer said. We never had to answer that question.

Despite the difficulties in bringing Moussaoui to trial, Brinkema, Spencer and MacMahon all agreed that the case ultimately demonstrates the ability of the judicial system to bring the cases to conclusion, something that has yet to happen with bin al-Shibh or Mohammed, who remain at Guantanamo.

Its amazing to me that the rest of the culprits in this case have not been brought to justice., Brinkema said.

Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Raj Parekh, who moderated Thursday's panel, called the Moussaoui prosecution "one of the most significant in our nations history.

We are holding this event not only to share the lessons of the Moussaoui case, but also to recognize and reflect upon the role of the justice system in responding to the tragic events of Sept. 11, he said.
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP)  Former Nebraska Gov. Dave Heineman railed Thursday against a piece of his own party's congressional redistricting plan, saying it was unnecessary to move rural Saunders County into the Omaha-focused 2nd Congressional District as some fellow Republicans have proposed to do.

Heineman, who is considering another run for governor, said he doesn't like the idea of moving the county out of the 1st Congressional District, where it has been located for decades. Heineman spent a large part of his childhood in Wahoo, and said he and many Saunders County residents feel connected to their current district, which is heavily rural and Republican but includes Lincoln.

"I just think you've got to look at history, and the 2nd District has always been in the Omaha area, Heineman said in an Associated Press interview.

The 2nd District currently encompasses all of Douglas and the western part of Sarpy County. The proposed Republican plan in the Legislature would divide Douglas County between the 1st and 2nd Districts, while moving all of neighboring Sarpy and Saunders counties into the 2nd District. Saunders and Sarpy are both heavily Republican, so merging them with the 2nd District would likely offset Democratic votes in Omaha.

Heineman said he doesn't object to other parts of the GOP plan. He opposes the Democratic counter-proposal, which would keep Douglas County whole in the 2nd District and swap out western Sarpy County with the more Democratic-leaning city of Bellevue.

But he said it's obvious that neither plan has the support it needs to pass in the Legislature during the special session that begins next week.

I don't have a doubt there are going to be some tradeoffs here, he said. At the end of the day, you're going to have to find some common ground.

Heineman also called on fellow GOP gubernatorial candidates Charles Herbster, Jim Pillen and Brett Lindstrom to oppose the proposed Saunders County move.

Members of the Legislature's Redistricting Committee agreed Thursday to present both the Republican and Democratic proposals to the public after hitting a major impasse and trading accusations that the maps were skewed to favor one party over the other.

The committee has scheduled hearings next week in Omaha, Lincoln and Grand Island where members of the public can testify, although it's unclear whether the public input will change any minds.

Democrats Barack Obama and Joe Biden each won the Omaha-centric 2nd District once, claiming one of Nebraska's three electoral votes in the presidential election. Nebraska is solidly Republican but one of just two states that is able to split its electoral votes. The 2nd District is currently represented by Republican U.S. Rep. Don Bacon but was held by Democrat Brad Ashford from 2015 to 2017.

The Republican proposal's sponsor, Sen. Lou Ann Linehan, argued that her map makes sense because its boundaries run along the very recognizable border of Interstate 680 and West Dodge Road. Everything north and west of those lines would move into the 1st District.

Linehan, the committee's chairwoman, said Douglas County has been divided for years into different districts for legislative and other offices, and she doesn't see why it couldn't be the same for congressional districts.

Democrats called the map gerrymandered and vowed to fight it. Sen. Adam Morfeld, of Lincoln, blasted it as completely partisan, completely political.

Lawmakers also squabbled over proposed legislative maps. One plan backed by Democrats would reduce the number of rural lawmakers by moving Legislative District 44, in rural southwest Nebraska, to fast-growing suburban Omaha. The district, which has been losing population, is represented by state Sen. Dan Hughes, a Republican.

A different Republican-supported plan would keep the number of rural senators the same but tweak the maps in Omaha and Lincoln to shift several Democratic state lawmakers out of their own districts.

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Follow Grant Schulte on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrantSchulte
NEOSHO, Mo. (AP)  A teacher said he resigned from a Missouri junior high school after he was told to remove a gay pride flag from his classroom and to sign a letter saying he would not discuss human sexuality or gender with his students.

John Wallis, 22, said he hung the flag and a sign that said "In This Classroom, EVERYONE Is Welcome so his students at Neosho Junior High in southwest Missouri would know they could come to him for help, The Kansas City Star reported.

Superintendent Jim Cummins said in a statement that he could not discuss personnel matters. He said Wallis, a theater, world mythology and speech and debate teacher, was hired Aug. 13 and resigned Sept. 1.

Wallis said the school principal and assistant principal initially advised him against displaying the items but did not prohibit it. But he took the flag and sign down after he was told a parent complained.

When students asked why the flag and sign were removed, he told them he was asked to take them down and that the flag did not represent what he would teach in his classes.

But I followed it up by saying, If you have a problem with the flag representing me, or students who identify as LGBTQ+, then you can probably find a different class, said Wallis. He said that prompted more complaints from parents.

He was then asked to sign a letter saying he would be fired if he could not teach his curriculum without keeping his personal agenda on sexuality out of the classroom. The letter also prohibited Wallis from displaying any references to sexuality or gender in his classroom.

Wallis said hes filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Educations Office of Civil Rights.

The problem I have with it, obviously, is that its specific to me, and as an openly gay man that seems a bit discriminatory because if youre a straight teacher, you can talk about your spouse, your kids, you can have a picture of your family in the classroom, but I have a flag and then all of a sudden theres a problem. You know, it didnt make any sense, Wallis said.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  The New Mexico Supreme Court decided not to weigh in on the Albuquerque city clerks decision to deny Bernalillo County Sheriff Manuel Gonzales about $600,000 in public financing for his campaign for mayor.

The state high court on Wednesday denied Gonzales' request to order a state judge or City Clerk Ethan Watson to certify Gonzales for public campaign financing, the Albuquerque Journal reported.
LEXINGTON, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina sheriffs deputy has been fired after he was accused of assaulting a female, authorities said.

The Davidson County Sheriffs Office confirmed that Donald Ray Mabe, 47, of High Point, no longer works for the department, WGHP reported Thursday. Mabe had been suspended.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  A federal judge has sentenced a North Carolina man to 13 years in prison for sex trafficking of a minor and for aiding and abetting, authorities said.

Antoine Lamar Wallace of Garner, was sentenced on Wednesday to for sex trafficking of a minor and aiding and abetting, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina said in a news release.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Polish opposition politicians accused the governing party Thursday of putting Poland's membership in the European Union in danger after a top party official said drastic solutions could be needed amid a conflict with Brussels.

Government spokesman Piotr Mueller denied that there is any intention to leave the 27-member bloc, saying: We will not follow the way of Great Britain.

Ryszard Terlecki, deputy leader of the conservative nationalist governing party, Law and Justice, said Wednesday during a discussion at an economic forum in Poland that the party wants to remain in the EU and have a cooperative relationship with the bloc but that the EU should be acceptable to us.

Because if things go the way they are likely to go, we will have to search for drastic solutions. The British showed that the dictatorship of the Brussels bureaucracy did not suit them and turned around and left, he said, referring to Brexit, or Britain's' departure from the bloc.

Terlecki, who is also the leader of the ruling party's group in parliament, spoke after the bloc moved earlier this week to punish Poland financially for actions that increase the governing party's control over the courts. Brussels says they are against EU law.

Opposition lawmakers seized on Terlecki's comment to accuse Law and Justice of seeking Poland's departure from the EU.

Senate Speaker Tomasz Grodzki said it would not be in Poland's interest to leave the EU.

Amid the uproar, Terlecki tweeted Thursday that he does not support leaving the bloc, saying: Poland was, is and will be a member of the EU."
PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. (AP)  A recruit who died this week at a Marine Corps training center in South Carolina has been identified.

Pvt. Anthony Munoz, 21, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was on his first day of training with the 3rd Recruit Training Battalion's Lima Company when the accident occurred Tuesday at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, WSAV-TV reported.
PADEN CITY, W.Va. (AP)  Federal environmental officials want to add the groundwater in a West Virginia community along the Ohio River to a national cleanup priority list.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday proposed adding Paden City's groundwater to the list of Superfund cleanup sites, the office of Sen. Joe Manchin said in a news release.
WORCESTER, Mass. (AP)  House Speaker Nancy Pelosi toured a Worcester child care facility Thursday in a visit meant to highlight the importance of affordable child care.

The California Democrat was joined by U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Massachusetts, and also met with local parents.

During her appearance at the Rainbow Child Development Center she touted the recently approved investments in the child tax credit, affordable child care programs and early education. The center serves hundreds of at-risk children from the surrounding area.

Pelosi's visit to Worcester came after she delivered remarks at Smith College in Northampton Wednesday night.
PHOENIX (AP)  Two young girls were found dead in an apartment along with their mother who had multiple stab wounds that were apparently self-inflicted, police said Thursday

Police said the girls were found dead in a bed Wednesday night with no obvious signs of external injury and it wasn't immediately known how they died. They were identified as Royal McIntyre, 4, and Aleyah McIntyre, 9.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Police are investigating what theyve dubbed the suspicious death of a person inside a Topeka home.

Police officers were flagged down Wednesday afternoon by someone in the Briarwood neighborhood and told a person dead inside a nearby home, police said in a news release. The officers went inside and found the body.

Investigators said the circumstances surrounding the persons death are suspicious, but did not give any details about how the person may have died or the persons identity.

The investigation into the death is continuing.
CAIRO, Ga. (AP)  Jury selection in the death penalty trial of a Georgia inmate charged with killing two prison guards was halted Thursday because an attorney in the case is being tested for the coronavirus.

Putnam County Sheriff Howard Sills said a defense attorney in the trial of Donnie Russell Rowe is awaiting results of a COVID-19 test.

Rowe is charged with murder in the slayings of Sgts. Christopher Monica and Curtis Billue, corrections officers at Baldwin State Prison who were shot with their own guns as inmates escaped a prison bus in June 2017.

Jury selection in the case began last week. If the attorney's coronavirus test comes back negative, Sills said, proceedings will resume Tuesday. He told WGXA-TV that a positive test result would delay things until Sept. 27.

Prosecutors say Rowe and another inmate, Ricky Dubose, killed the guards while escaping from a prison transfer bus southeast of Atlanta. They were arrested in Tennessee a few days later. Dubose also faces the death penalty and will be tried separately.

Rowes lawyers had asked for the trial to be delayed, saying a surge in COVID-19 infections in Georgia could force a mistrial in the case. Putnam County Superior Court Judge Brenda Trammell denied the request.

The trial is set to be held in Putnam County in central Georgia. Because the case garnered so much public attention, jury selection is being held in rural Grady County, about 200 miles (320 kilometers) away.

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This story was first published on Sept. 9, 2021. It was updated on Sept. 10, 2021, to correct that a defense attorney, not a prosecutor, was being tested for COVID-19.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  Puerto Ricos Supreme Court ruled Thursday that not guilty verdicts in criminal cases must be unanimous, marking a significant change in how jury trials are conducted in the U.S. territory.

For nearly seven decades, Puerto Ricos constitution has allowed a minimum of nine jurors for such verdicts.

The 5-2 decision comes more than a year after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that jury verdicts must be unanimous to convict in criminal trials, a decision that affected Louisiana, Oregon and Puerto Rico, which had not required unanimity for a guilty verdict.

Though that decision specifically concerned unanimity in guilty verdicts, it sparked discussion in Puerto Rico about how the islands judicial system should handle not guilty verdicts.

In their decision, the majority of judges on Puerto Ricos Supreme Court said justice demands unanimity also be required for not guilty verdicts, to maintain the same decision proportion for both guilty and not guilty verdicts as required by Puerto Ricos constitution.

Two judges dissented. One accused his colleagues of distortion and the other said the decision ignores constitutional protections.

The dissenters also argued that a defendant's culpability is being judged, not their innocence.

Why ... is it necessary that a jury see itself entirely convinced of an absence of culpability that is already presumed and is up to the state to defeat? wrote Judge Luis Estrella Martinez.

The ruling stems from a 2016 case involving a Puerto Rico man accused of first-degree murder and other charges.

Puerto Ricos Tribunal of First Instance held a hearing last November to talk about jury instructions for his case. Prosecutors requested the jury be told unanimity was required for a guilty or not guilty verdict based on the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling the previous year. The defense attorney disputed that position, noting that Puerto Ricos constitution states that only a minimum of nine jurors are required for a not guilty verdict.

The tribunal found in favor of the defense attorney, and prosecutors took the issue to Puerto Ricos Court of Appeals, which upheld the tribunals ruling.

In a criminal procedure, the only thing that is being judged is the culpability of the accused, not their innocence. Their innocence is presumed at all times. It makes no sense to have to prove something that is presumed until it is defeated with evidence beyond a reasonable doubt, the appeals court stated.

Prosecutors then appealed to the island's Supreme Court.

The defense attorney argued the U.S. Supreme Courts ruling applied only to guilty verdicts, while prosecutors argued that Puerto Ricos constitution does not allow a different number of jurors to be required for a guilty versus a not guilty verdict.

The high court decided the constitution does require the same standards for each kind of verdict.

Legal experts said they disagreed with Thursday's ruling.

I feel this is a mistake that doesnt think about administrative and technical issues, said Wanda Valentin, former president of the associations criminal law commission.

Puerto Rico required a jury's 12 members to unanimously agree on finding a defendant guilty or not guilty until 1948, when the law was amended to allow either verdict to be based on a majority of at least nine jurors. The amendment was made at a time when the government was prosecuting leaders seeking Puerto Rico's independence, which made it easier for them to be found guilty, Valentin said. The provision was added to the island's constitution in 1952.

A request that the court reconsider its ruling can be submitted. If the court denied such a petition, the last recourse would be the U.S. Supreme Court.
CHICAGO (AP)  A San Francisco venture capitalist with nearly $11 million in campaign contributions became the latest Republican Thursday to announce a run for the chance to unseat Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2022.

Jesse Sullivan, an Illinois native who founded Alter Global in San Francisco, released a campaign video portraying himself as an outsider who'll fight to solve the state's problems.

This fight it will not stop, I promise you, until this era in Illinois of high taxes, crime, corruption comes to an end," Sullivan, of Petersburg in central Illinois, says in the video.

Most of the 37-year-old's campaign donations are from California contributors, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Other Republicans who've announced campaigns for the June primary are state Sen. Darren Bailey, former state Sen. Paul Schimpf and businessman Gary Rabine.

However, any candidate faces an uphill battle against Pritzker who's seeking a second term and has $35 million for his campaign.

The heir to the Hyatt Hotel chain and multi-billionaire private equity investor was elected in 2018 after spending nearly $150 million of his own money. He ousted one-term Republican Bruce Rauner, a millionaire who spent $68 million of his personal fortune.

Pritzker told reporters Thursday that Republicans were beating each other up on the campaign trail.

All I can say is that I'm focused on the issues that are really important to the people of Illinois, he said at an unrelated event in Chicago.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Republicans in Pennsylvania's state Senate held their first hearing Thursday in what they call a forensic investigation into last year's presidential election, an underwhelming affair that Democrats nevertheless say is an extension of a national campaign to attack voting rights following former President Donald Trump's loss.

Republicans maintain that the investigation is not about Trump or overturning the election, but rather about looking into problems with the last two elections  in May and November  and trying to fix those problems.

It has been ardently pressed by Republican senators vowing to bring an Arizona-style election audit to Pennsylvania, but has sown discord in the Senate Republican caucus and brought sharp criticism from Democrats.

They say it is a perversion of the Senates rules and an effort to undermine voting rights and the state's mail-in voting law, in service to Trumps baseless claims that the election was stolen from him.

Republicans seem to be aiming to use the committee as a super committee to propagate their rhetoric and amplify the rhetoric of distortion and chase every rabbit hole of conspiracy theory that has been discredited to date, said Sen. Anthony Williams, the committee's Democratic chair from Philadelphia.

Sen. Steve Santarsiero, D-Bucks, called it part of a nationwide effort that's well-organized and well-funded to call in to question the outcome of last year's election so that it can then be the vehicle for denying people the freedom to vote by changing our election laws.

It's not clear what the investigation will look like, but the top Republican senator, President Pro Tempore Jake Corman, has vowed to issue subpoenas to get information or voting machines and ballots, as happened in the widely discredited election audit mounted by Arizona's Senate Republicans.

The subject of the hearing was to discuss pre-election guidance to counties by Democratic Gov. Tom Wolfs administration on how to handle aspects of the state's fledgling mail-in voting law.

The subject is previously plowed ground, having been explored in a state House committee hearing in January.

The days witness list was short: a Republican county commissioner from sparsely populated Fulton County.

The commissioner drew particularly sharp questioning from Democrats because Fulton County  in cooperation with Trump allies  allowed a software firm to inspect its voting machines as part of an audit after the 2020 election.

The commissioner, Stuart Ulsh, said that trying to follow updates to the state's guidance had been confusing and overwhelming" for his small staff.

In written testimony it submitted, the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania primarily blamed changes in state guidance to counties on a crush of lawsuits over provisions in the mail-in voting law.

Officials from many of Pennsylvania's most heavily populated counties and Philadelphia, the state's biggest city, roundly said they had not been invited to testify.

Officials from Wolfs Department of State, which oversees elections in Pennsylvania, declined to testify. The testimony would relate to a lawsuit filed against the agency by state lawmakers seeking to throw out the mail-in voting law, a spokesperson said.

The committee's chair, Sen. Cris Dush, R-Jefferson, read aloud the questions he wanted to ask agency officials, but did not say whether he would seek to issue subpoenas.

In a letter to Dush, Acting Secretary of State Veronica Degraffenreid said agency officials have testified repeatedly on election matters before House and Senate committees this year. That includes testifying before the Senates Special Committee on Election Integrity and Reform, which produced a report on the election, as did a House committee.

In any case, the hearing hardly dwelled on pre-election guidance.

Rather, Democrats questioned Ulsh repeatedly about who paid for the audit. Ulsh said he didn't know, only that taxpayers did not pay for it. Democrats on the panel asked him to find out and provide the answer.

Later, they questioned how he couldn't be aware of a county document stating that the software company  which for a time worked on the Arizona audit  was contracted to a group called Defending the Republic.

The group is run by Sidney Powell, a Trump-allied lawyer who filed a number of baseless lawsuits challenging election results and helped fund the Arizona election audit.

Democrats also questioned Ulsh's motivation to hold the audit. Ulsh said he wanted to know if everything was done properly."

Democrats contended that Ulsh's motivation was to overthrow the election result.

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Follow Marc Levy on Twitter at www.twitter.com/timelywriter
BUCHAREST, Romania (AP)  Romanias governing National Liberal Party on Thursday blocked  with the help of an opposition party  a no-confidence motion brought by a former coalition partner, capping a week of political turmoil in the Eastern European country.

The crisis began last week after Liberal Prime Minister Florin Citu sacked Justice Minister Stelian Ion  a member of the USR-Plus junior coalition partner  for not approving a 10-billion-euro ($12 billion) regional infrastructure development program.

USR-Plus withdrew support for Citu and tabled a no-confidence motion  with the support of the far-right AUR party  against him.

The center-right Liberals abstained from Thursdays vote in parliament along with the opposition Social Democrat Party (PSD), which meant that a reading of the procedure could go ahead but not the actual vote, as there wasn't a quorum.

Citu also challenged on Wednesday the legality of the motion against him with the Constitutional Court on a technicality, and is pushing to block the vote until after the courts ruling.

All six USR-Plus ministers resigned Tuesday and their resignations were accepted by President Klaus Iohannis Wednesday. Interim ministers have been appointed.

The Liberals are set to hold an internal party leadership election later this month, which Radu Magdin, a political analyst at Bucharest-based Smartlink Communications, believes is behind Citu's move to stall the vote.

Citu is afraid that the no-confidence vote would force the PSD to join USR-Plus and AUR and vote against the government, he told The Associated Press. This way, the Citu cabinet would very likely lose the confidence of parliament.

PSDs interest, Magdin says, is to "prolong the political life of Citus Liberals for some time.

Rising prices of utility bills will make this winter one of discontent ... (and) without controlling the resources of the government, Citu would lose the race for PNL leadership," he said.

USR-Plus had expressed concerns over the transparency of how the regional development funds, which would give power to local authorities, would be managed. In a statement last week the party said the funds could fill the accounts of (local) barons.

In an interview with The Associated Press this week, former prime minister and Liberal party leader Ludovic Orban said that he blames the prime minister for the current turmoil.

He provoked this crisis, by the decision he took without my approval, and mainly the decision of choosing to dismiss the minister of justice," he said. A decision in which I was not consulted and I didnt approve of."

Orban and Citu will face off later this month in the partys leadership elections.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP)  South Dakota lawmakers are being asked to call a special session to consider impeaching Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg for his conduct in a car crash last year that killed a pedestrian.

In a joint statement released Thursday, the House Speaker, House Republican leader and House Democratic leader laid out a process to evaluate impeaching the Republican attorney general, but it would require two-thirds support from both the House and Senate to move forward.

House Republican leader Rep. Kent Peterson said he is proposing a special session in November. If that call receives the necessary support, House Speaker Spencer Gosch would then appoint a committee to investigate the conduct of the attorney general, whose term in office runs through 2022.

The process will be fair, thorough, and transparent, Gosch said in a statement.

Gov. Kristi Noem, who has called for Ravnsborg's resignation, last week delivered a hard drive containing the crash investigation to Gosch. The governor's office also released a letter from Secretary of Public Safety Craig Price saying he believed that Ravnsborg should have faced manslaughter charges.

But Gosch said the House would not be retrying criminal matters.

The attorney general pleaded no contest to a pair of misdemeanors last month, while a third misdemeanor was dropped by prosecutors. He avoided jail time but was sentenced to fines totaling over $4,500 for making an illegal lane change and using a cellphone while driving. Investigators said his car veered onto the shoulder of the rural highway where the man was walking late on Sept. 12 last year and that Ravnsborg had been on his cellphone about a minute before the crash.

Peterson, along with House Democratic leader Rep. Jamie Smith, supported a move to impeach Ravnsborg in February, but that quickly stalled while Ravnsborg's trial played out. They argued at the time that Ravnsborg, the state's top law enforcement officer, should be removed from office for his crimes or misdemeanors in office causing the death of 55-year-old Joseph Boever.

A spokesman for Ravnsborg did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The attorney general has repeatedly insisted he will not resign.
STARKVILLE, Miss. (AP)  A Mississippi city says its employees who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 will pay higher health insurance rates, will be required to wear masks in many places on the job and will have to use sick leave days if they contract the virus.

Starkville city employees who are vaccinated will receive up to five additional paid sick days if they contract COVID-19 and an additional day if they are not feeling well after receiving the vaccine, the Commercial Dispatch reported.

The Starkville Board of Aldermen voted 5-2 Tuesday to set the policy, which includes a $75 extra yearly insurance charge for unvaccinated city workers. It specifies that all unvaccinated city employees must wear masks in all indoor locations unless in a private office and in outdoor settings where 6 feet (1.8 meters) of distance from other employees is not possible.

Failure to comply can result in an employee being fired. Mayor Lynn Spruill proposed the policy. She said it does not require workers to receive the vaccine but it gives incentives to those who are vaccinated. Mississippi has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the nation and hospitals across the state have been overrun this summer with COVID-19 patients, the majority of whom are unvaccinated.

Firefighter Joseph Diaz spoke against the policy.

I will not comply with your policy of discrimination against those that have not taken the COVID shot, Diaz said to the board. You will have to terminate me. I have not come here to convince you of the correctness of my stance.  From now on, my voice and the voice of like-minded employees will be best heard through our actions.

Starkville Fire Department Lt. Paramedic Chance Cummings said he is not anti-vaccination but pro-choice. He said Starkville has claimed to be a city of inclusiveness by having Pride events and marches for racial justice.

I guess the pride for the LGBTQ+ community and the Black lives only matter if theyre vaccinated, Cummings said.

David Buys, a professor in the Mississippi State University Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion, said public policy and public health are aligned. He spoke in favor of the new policy, saying the board should take all measures to reduce the spread of the virus.

I would argue that this is a medical freedom  that masking is a medical freedom issue, Buys said. It gives my children who are not able to be vaccinated the freedom to go to the grocery store with me, and my wife and I dont have to decide which one is going and which one is keeping the kids.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  A prominent Pennsylvania state senator was in a motorcycle wreck more than a week ago and is recovering, his office said Thursday.

Republican Sen. Pat Browne was in Colorado, on his way to participate in a train photography event, when the accident occurred on Aug. 31, according to a release from his office. He was wearing a helmet.
Political leaders, family members and thousands of fans paid their final respects to Greek music great Mikis Theodorakis who was buried Thursday on the island of Crete.

Holding flowers and olive branches, onlookers dressed in black sang songs composed by Theodorakis as his casket was carried from a chapel to the cemetery near the port city of Chania.

Theodorakis, who died last week, aged 96, was known internationally for his political activism and prolific musical career that included a wide range of work, from rousing symphonies to popular TV and film scores, including for Serpico and Zorba the Greek.

He is also remembered for his opposition to the military dictatorship that ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974, a time during which he was persecuted and jailed and his music outlawed.

Before his casket was lowered into the ground, Greek musician Dimitris Basis sang the sorrowful 1960 composition Mana Mou Kai Panagia -- My Mother and Holy Mary. Showing visible emotion, Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou stood close by and mouthed the words.

An integral part of the Greek political and musical scene for decades, Theodorakis died last Thursday in Athens. His body lay in state in a chapel of the Athens Cathedral for three days, before being transported to Crete by ferry overnight.

Thousands awaited him on the island, where the municipal band led the way as his hearse drove to Chania cathedral.

The countrys prime minister and opposition party leaders also traveled to the village of Galatas, on the outskirts of Chania, Theodorakis ancestral home, where the main funeral service was held.

We bid farewell to a great ecumenical Greek who served the values of freedom, justice and unity of his countrymen, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said.

It is a fitting farewell to quietly sing his songs today, to honor the memory of this great and unique composer.
ANKARA, Turkey (AP)  Turkey's defense minister reiterated on Thursday that his country will never accept any Greek move to extend its territorial waters in the Aegean sea, dismissing any possible effort by Athens as empty dreams.

Speaking at a symposium in Istanbul addressing Turkeys troubled ties with Greece, Defense Minister Hulusi Akar also said Turkey was determined to press ahead with efforts to search for energy in the eastern Mediterranean in areas where its believes Ankara and Turkish Cypriots have rights.

Neighbors and fellow NATO members Greece and Turkey have long been at odds over a series of disputes, including territorial rights in the Aegean Sea and over energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean. Tensions flared last year over exploratory drilling rights in areas in the Mediterranean where Greece and Cyprus claim as their own exclusive economic zone.

Greece also says it maintains its right to extend its territorial waters from the current six to 12 nautical miles around its Aegean islands. Turkey has long said it would consider the move  which would block its own access to the Aegean  as a cause for war. In January, Greek parliament voted to extend its waters along its western coastline, on the other side of the country, to 12 miles.

While we do not accept this claim which disregards the rules of international law, the principles of reason and logic, Greece seeks to expands its airspace further with the dream of extending its territorial waters to 12 miles, Akar said. It should be seen and known that these are empty dreams.

We will continue our activities in areas where (Turkish Cypriots) have given us license and where we have rights, Akar said. Cyprus has been divided between its Greek and Turkish communities since 1974. The internationally-recognized Greek Cypriot government accuses Turkey of violating its maritime economic zone by drilling off the island.

Meanwhile, in a pre-recorded video address to the symposium, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said his country has been left on its own to deal with millions of Syrian refugees and accused neighboring Greece of wasting a historic opportunity to cooperate with Ankara on the issue of refugees.

No step has been taken to ensure that refugees can live in security and peace in their own lands, Erdogan said. Turkey was left alone in its extraordinary struggle to prevent irregular migration, Erdogan said.

Turkey hosts more than 3.6 million Syrians who have fled the civil war in Syria and the migration issue has led to flare-ups in tensions between Greece and Turkey.

In 2016, Turkey and the EU signed a deal for Turkey to stop the hundreds of thousands of migrants and refugees heading toward Europe, in return for visa-free travel for Turkish citizens and substantial EU financial support.

Erdogan has frequently accused the EU of not keeping its side of the bargain, while the deal led to thousands of asylum-seekers languishing in squalid refugee camps on the eastern Greek islands.
LONDON (AP)  Britain and France traded barbs Thursday over what to do about a growing number of migrants trying to cross the English Channel in small boats.

After the British government briefed British newspapers that U.K. Border Force vessels could intercept boats and send them back to French waters, French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said France would not accept any practice contrary to the law of the sea.

Migrants have long used northern France as a launching point to reach Britain, either by stowing away in trucks or on ferries, or  increasingly since the coronavirus pandemic disrupted international travel  in dinghies and other small boats organized by smugglers. The British and French governments have worked for years to stop the journeys, without much success.

More than 14,000 people have made the crossing this year, according to a count by Britains Press Association news agency. In 2020, about 8,500 people made the journey, and several died in the attempt.

Earlier this year, Britain agreed to give France 54 million pounds ($74 million) to help fund a doubling of the number of police patrolling French beaches.

Britain has not yet paid the promised money, and Home Secretary Priti Patel has suggested she could withhold it if France does not do more to stop the people-smuggling boats from departing.

Darmanin, who held talks with Patel on Wednesday, appeared to refer to that threat when he tweeted that France would not accept financial blackmail.

The friendship between our two countries deserves better than postures that damage cooperation between our services, he wrote.

Opposition politicians and refugee groups in Britain say turning back boats in the Channel would be impractical, dangerous and illegal.

Tony Smith, a former head of Britains Border Force, said trying to force back overloaded and often unseaworthy boats would be highly dangerous.

The top priority in my book, under the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea, is the preservation of life above all else, and so both the French and the British should be committed to that, and making sure that nobody dies, he said.

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Follow APs global migration coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/migration
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP)  Just 90 adult intensive care beds are available in Kentucky as strained hospitals confront the surging delta variant of the virus, Gov. Andy Beshear reported Thursday.

He called that a record of the pandemic. Only 188 beds were available Tuesday.

Our hospital situation has never been more dire in my lifetime than it is right now, Beshear said, at a virtual news briefing. That means, if you get COVID and need to be hospitalized, there has never been a greater likelihood that theres not a bed for you or your family members, or your friends.

Sixty of 96 Kentucky hospitals currently face a critical staffing shortage, the Democratic governor added. The limited number of ICU beds also will put those in non-virus related emergencies in danger of not receiving care, such as people in bad car accidents.

It is continuing to tax our hospitals at record rates and the growth is not sustainable, he said.

Kentucky National Guard teams will arrive over the next week at 21 strained hospitals in the state. Some 310 guard members will assist with nonclinical functions to allow hospital staff to focus on caring for patients.

More than 100 guard members are currently deployed to St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead, Appalachian Regional Healthcare in Hazard, The Medical Center at Bowling Green and Pikeville Medical Center.

Kentucky reported 4,468 new coronavirus cases Thursday. All but three of Kentuckys 120 counties are reported to be in the red zone  signaling a severe level of community spread.

The state's positivity rate was 14.16%, up from 13.29% last Thursday.

Approximately 70% of Kentucky adults have received at least a first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

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Hudspeth Blackburn 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.
OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP)  Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday that starting next week, the states indoor mask mandate will be expanded to include outdoor events with 500 or more attendees, regardless of vaccination status.

The new requirement  which takes effect Monday  comes days after a similar outdoor mask mandates took effect in the states two most populous counties, King and Pierce, due to rising COVID-19 cases. An indoor mask mandate, regardless of vaccination status, has been in place in Washington since Aug. 23.

Inslee said that while the outdoors remain the safest place for people, concerns about transmission still exist in outdoor areas where people are packed close to each other. He cited the outdoor Watershed Festival at the Gorge, a three-day country music festival that drew more than 25,000 people six weeks ago, that led to more than 200 infections.

When you combine large crowds with the delta variant without any mitigation measures in place, were going to keep seeing these super spreader events, even in outdoor environments, he said.

Last month, Oregon was the first state to reinstitute a statewide mask requirement for outdoor public areas where people are close together.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended that everyone regardless of vaccination status wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas where there is substantial or high rates of COVID-19 and has recommended considering masks in crowded outdoor settings in areas with high numbers of COVID-19 cases.

As of this week, all of the states 39 counties were in the high threshold range, according to a CDC tracker.

Washington has already imposed a vaccine mandate for most state workers, plus all public, charter and private school teachers and staff and those working at the states colleges and universities. There is no weekly testing alternative, and the only opt-out is a medical or religious exemption.

An estimated 363,000 employees are covered under the mandate, though its unclear how many within that group are already vaccinated.

Last weekend, Washingtons largest state labor union announced a tentative agreement for the order as it applies to state workers.

The Washington Federation of State Employees, which had sued on behalf of its 46,000 workers, negotiated terms with the state that still must be ratified by members.

The tentative agreement allows that anyone who is eligible to retire by the end of the year can forgo the vaccine if they use accrued or unpaid leave until they reach their retirement date. Those who miss the October deadline will also be allowed to take leave for up to 30 days in order to get vaccinated. And workers wont lose their jobs while they wait for a determination on their exemption request and those denied will have 45 days on leave to get fully vaccinated.

Inslee said Thursday that the state is still in the process of bargaining with other state unions, and said that he thought the WSFE agreement template is a good one.

There have been more than 531,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases  plus more than 63,000 probable cases  in Washington state, and 6,850 deaths. State health officials say that most of the states new infections are caused by the delta variant, a more contagious version of the coronavirus.

As of this week, nearly 74% of people age 12 and older have initiated vaccination and 67% are fully vaccinated.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  Officials in West Virginia's largest city has approved giving $750 to all city workers in Charleston who are fully vaccinated against the coronavirus.

The City Council approved the move Tuesday night, giving a $250 boost to Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin's original $500 proposal.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The former Wisconsin Supreme Court justice leading Assembly Speaker Robin Vos' investigation of the November elections asked state officials Thursday to ensure that all records related to the election are preserved and to inform him of any evidence that's been destroyed.

Mike Gableman sent a letter to the Wisconsin Elections Commission asking commissioners to tell local clerks to preserve any and all records and evidence related to the election, including router information and computer access logs. He also asked commissioners to let him know about any intentional or unintentional destruction of records.

State law requires clerks to save records related to voting for 22 months after an election. The language specifically includes memory devices but says nothing about voting equipment itself or the software that supports it.

Gableman made the request as the commission was preparing to vote on whether to authorize election equipment vendor Election Systems & Software's request to sell upgraded machines and software to local clerks.

Republicans including Rep. Janel Brandtjen, who separately is trying to launch what she refers to as a forensic investigation of the November results, have urged the commission to reject the request out of concerns that data would be lost during the upgrades.

The commission ultimately voted 4-2 to allow ES&S to sell new equipment only to clerks who dont have existing ES&S systems, ensuring that no existing systems will be upgraded. About 760 of the state's 1,859 elections clerks used some form of ES&S equipment during the November elections, according to commission data.

The commission, made up of three Democrats and three Republicans, argued for hours over what to do. The Republican commissioners weren't satisfied with repeated assurances from both ES&S officials and the commission's administrator, Meagan Wolfe, that all data required to be stored under state law would indeed be retained.

Commissioner Dean Knudson said he'd like the state to require people to vote by hand and allow only the disabled to use machines going forward.

"Touch screens just lead to distrust in our elections," he said.

The Democratic commissioners accused the Republicans of wasting time on conspiracy theories.

(Data retention has) never been an issue in last 20 years or more weve had machines. Now we want to make sure we capture things that after an election is over have little or no impact on the election, Commissioner Julie Glancey said. Were wasting a lot of time talking about keeping things that in the end really have no purpose.

President Joe Biden defeated former President Donald Trump by about 20,000 votes in Wisconsin, an outcome upheld following recounts in Milwaukee and Dane counties and through multiple state and federal lawsuits.

Trump and some of his fellow Republicans have refused to accept his loss and have been raising questions about election integrity across the country even though there's no evidence of widespread fraud. Republican State Sen. Kathy Bernier, who chairs the Wisconsin Senate's elections committee, defended the integrity of the election on Wednesday.

There is not a reason to spread misinformation about this past election when we have all the evidence that shows otherwise, Bernier said,

Wisconsin Republicans have ordered the Legislature's nonpartisan auditors to review the election. Vos announced in June that he had hired Gableman to lead a separate investigation after Trump complained that Vos wasn't doing enough. Brandtjen sent subpoenas to clerks in Milwaukee and Brown counties demanding that they turn over all of their ballots and voting machines so she can review them, but the clerks have refused, saying the subpoenas arent valid.

The commission also voted unanimously to ask the Legislature and Gov. Tony Evers to declare special voting deputies who help nursing home residents vote essential visitors to guarantee they could access the homes during the pandemic.

The commission in March 2020 barred the deputies from entering nursing homes as the pandemic was taking hold. This past March, commissioners agreed to allow them back into the facilities but has been struggling since then with how to ensure they could gain access.

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Associated Press writer Scott Bauer contributed to this story.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  Democratic state Senate leaders said Thursday they're against a special session to consider bills that would bar schools and businesses from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations or other measures.

Our whole health care system is about to implode," said Sen. Ron Stollings of Boone, who is also a physician. "The sense of crisis should be everywhere.

Stollings, Senate Minority Leader Stephen Baldwin of Greenbrier and Sen. Richard Lindsay of Kanawha held a teleconference to show solidarity with Senate Republicans who they said are quietly opposed to holding a COVID-19 special session, The Charleston Gazette-Mail reported.

At some point, somebody has to be the adult in the room and stand up for the right thing, Baldwin said.

Stollings said Boone Memorial Hospital patients have had to be transported to facilities in Ohio and Michigan because intensive care units in West Virginia hospitals are reaching capacity.

Lindsay said he is astounded that some Republicans want to impose their will on private businesses, school systems, and colleges and universities, against the best advice of public health experts.

All theyre trying to do is protect their customers and students, he said.

About two dozen Republican delegates wrote to Gov. Jim Justice asking him to call a special session to limit public health mandates, and a handful of senators have made similar requests. Justice has shown no interest in calling the session.

The Department of Health and Human Resources reported 22,972 active COVID-19 cases as of Thursday, with 1,744 new cases since Wednesday, and 3,189 deaths, up 20 from Wednesday. The latest hospitalization figures showed 813 West Virginians hospitalized, just five below the prior pandemic peak in January, with a record 252 in the ICU and 132 on ventilators.

Justice said Wednesday that West Virginia is leading the nation in the acceleration of COVID-19 cases.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Nagla Bedir didn't discuss Sept. 11 with her New Jersey high school students last year. Mid-pandemic, with remote learning, it wasn't a conversation she wanted to have via computer screen. But this year, returning to the classroom just after the end of America's longest war, she figures she can't not teach about it.

So later this month  after students in her international diplomacy class have introduced themselves and agreed on how they'll have respectful conversations  she plans to ask two questions: What do you know about 9/11, why it happened, and the aftermath? And how is it connected to Afghanistan?

She isn't sure what they'll say, but she's set on having the discussion.

I think its really important that teachers dont shy away from teaching about these things, says Bedir, co-founder of the organization Teaching While Muslim. Many educators worry about teaching anything thats considered political, she says, and I think its really unfortunate because there is so much misinformation and disinformation in the world.

Along with packed curriculums and calendars, those are just some of the challenges of teaching about Sept. 11 to kids born since that day, who get so much of their information from online and social media spaces, and sometimes don't have the interest or media literacy to differentiate truth from conspiracy theories that persist 20 years later.

Today's students don't have memories from that day but have heard about it all their lives, and thats bound to lead to questions, says Jennifer Grygiel, a Syracuse University professor who researches social media and the internet. If they arent given factual information that helps them understand what happened and why, untruths can fill the void.

Conspiracy theories take root when there are unknowns, and there were so many unknowns about that day," Grygiel says. In the absence of information, people go online. And what do they find? It depends.

An online search for content related to 9/11 conspiracy theories turns up millions of hits: videos, blogs and whole websites devoted to different theories, as well as accurate information that attempts to debunk the myths. Platforms like YouTube and Facebook say theyve taken steps to curb the spread of 9/11 misinformation by promoting authoritative information about the attacks, or by adding links to other sources that debunk myths.

Questions about conspiracy theories and 9/11 misinformation often arise in training that the National Sept. 11 Memorial & Museum has offered for hundreds of teachers, according to Noah Rauch, its senior vice president for education and public programs. The subject comes up so much that it developed specific sessions for teachers who want to use 9/11 and related conspiracy theories to teach critical thinking skills.

Longtime history teacher Kathy Durham uses 9/11 to teach her high schoolers in rural West Wendover, Nevada, about perspectives and primary sources, looking at documentaries and old news coverage and requiring them to talk to adults who remember that day.

Occasionally students claim the attacks were an inside job, and Durham says she pushes them to analyze the credibility of sources and evidence.

Its really, really a delicate thing, because my job is to teach kids to think and not tell them what to think, Durham says.

Some schools teach about 9/11 around the anniversary, briefly discuss it in contemporary history classes or incorporate resources offered by the memorial, the government, nonprofits or teachers unions. Often the approach is up to the educator, even in states where education standards require it for certain grades or classes.

I think that the way its been taught has largely been memorializing the events versus really digging into the context of 9/11 and the ongoing sort of results of 9/11, says Jeremy Stoddard, a University of Wisconsin-Madison professor who has researched that subject.

In the early years, it was an emotionally charged topic, but now more of the challenge is engaging students so distanced from it, says Anthony Gardner, whose brother Harvey died at the World Trade Center. Gardner founded the September 11th Education Trust, which released a curriculum to help teachers incorporate 9/11-related lessons not just on the anniversary but in coursework throughout the year.

It's important, Gardner says, that students hear about those who died, the aftermath, related deaths that came later, and the lessons learned.

We made that pledge to never forget, he says.

Corey Winchester, a high school history teacher in Evanston, Illinois, tries to teach about Sept. 11 not as just a moment in time but something that were still interacting with and a lesson about perspectives. That means he might make connections to it while teaching about internment of Japanese-Americans or the Vietnam War, he says.

For some teachers, incorporating personal stories helps drive home the wide impact of 9/11. Liz Prince is having her fifth graders at DeSoto Central Elementary school in Southaven, Mississippi, record an interview with someone they know about a Sept. 11 experience, then share it with classmates. She also ordered books to help with age-appropriate explanations about places that were targeted and people who died.

But Prince says shes not ready to discuss Afghanistan, which she considers too political for her classroom.

At Princeton High School outside Cincinnati, social studies teacher Jim OConnor has fielded questions from his students about why U.S. troops were in Afghanistan for so long. He says he'll tell them his memories about teaching on the day of the attacks, and how, as part of the Air National Guard, he later had to help deploy friends to Iraq. He hopes talking about the sense of patriotism and unity that emerged reminds students that such things are possible.

In New Jersey, Bedir plans to outline the basics of what happened, then have students explore the timeline of U.S. involvement in Afghanistan since even before 2001. She, too, anticipates recounting her own experience, when she was a student herself.

She was 11, attending a school with a view of the smoking New York skyline. Her parents feared for her safety as anti-Muslim sentiment rose after the attacks, and she says they halted her plans to begin wearing a hijab.

She ended up waiting a decade.

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Klepper, who reported from Providence, R.I., covers misinformation for The Associated Press. Find the reporters on Twitter at https://twitter.com/kantele10 and https://twitter.com/davidklepper.
Vice President Kamala Harris returned to the Bay Area on Wednesday to help Gov. Gavin Newsom stave off a recall effort, and she left for Washington, D.C., just hours later with a little taste of home: In-N-Out.

The Oakland native flew in from the nation's capital to rally voters to the governor's side, saying the race is a battle between California's progressive values and Republicans looking to take the nation's most populous state backward on women's rights, abortion access and labor/immigrant rights. She echoed Newsom's campaign message that the outcome will ripple beyond the state.

California, let us send a message to the world that these are the things we stand for, these are the things we fight for, and we will not give up," Harris told a cheering crowd of about 200 volunteers and labor union members in San Leandro.

After she was done, the veep had In-N-Out cheeseburgers and fries (according to pool reports and social media posts from multiple reporters) served aboard Air Force Two. Shakes, very sadly, don't travel well apparently.

It probably wasn't necessary for Harris to fly all the way across the country to help her "frenemy" Newsom, as two new polls on the recall election paint a promising picture for Newsom.

Polls released Wednesday by Suffolk University and YouGov show double-digit leads for Newsom on question one (which asks "Should Gavin Newsom be recalled?").

The Suffolk University poll found 58% of those surveyed plan to vote "no" while 41% said they would vote "yes," and the YouGov poll found 56% of people intended to vote "no" while 44% plan to vote "yes."

The polls come as the tide has appeared to change for Newsom, whose poll results from earlier in the summer were uninspiring. The previous YouGov poll from July only showed Newsom fending off the recall by 4 percentage points.

SFGATE writer Michelle Robertson and the Associated Press contributed to this report.
Two Bay Area chefs have landed on Food & Wines Best New Chefs list for 2021, which focused on strong leadership within the restaurant industry in the U.S.

Matt Horn, owner and pitmaster of Horn Barbecue in Oakland, and Gaby Maeda, chef de cuisine at State Bird Provisions in San Francisco, were honored in the magazines 33rd annual list, which highlighted chefs from 10 different restaurants around the country.

Each honoree was selected in part for delivering noteworthy dishes but also for taking a stance on large issues  such as mental health and racism, among others  and implementing a positive change or working toward a solution. Horns dedication to cultivating the rich flavors of Texas barbecue on his own was an important highlight in his nomination, though he also had a hand in giving back to his community amid the ongoing pandemic.

Jen Lo / Special to SFGATE

Last year, Horn and David Kim, Horn's former business partner and former president of Horn Hospitality Group, launched the nonprofit Horn Initiative, which helped raise about $20,000 within two months to fix 4,000 meals for families, frontline workers and essential workers. I just want to just feed people, reach out and touch the community, Horn told SFGATE in 2020 about the Horn Initiative.

On Instagram, Horn thanked the publication and said, It is an honor, but also a position that will not be abused or taken for granted.

Similarly, State Bird Provisions shared its own Instagram post to celebrate chef Maeda on her nomination.

Maeda was rapidly promoted to chef de cuisine at State Bird Provisions after her hiring, Food & Wine wrote. She told the publication that upon taking the promotion, it was pivotal for her to learn to become a manager that didnt resort to toxic behavior often seen within restaurant kitchens.

"I wanted to make sure I knew how to talk to staff, how to schedule, and how to deal with the stresses of everything," she told Food & Wine. "I learned how to properly give constructive criticism and positive reinforcement at the same time.

Horn Barbecue and State Bird Provisions are among some of the Bay Areas best restaurants to be recognized in prominent food awards and mentions. Last month, Horn Barbecue was listed in the Michelin Guide, while State Bird Provisions made 50 Best Discoverys annual list as a top restaurant in the world.
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.
SHELTON  There were no missed routes, and all buses had a driver, but some parents took to social media to blast the city-run bus company over late runs, overcrowded buses and missed stops during the schools opening on Wednesday.

Superintendent Ken Saranich said missing stops and long waits are unfortunate but common at the start of every school year.

All bus runs ran and had a driver, Saranich said. As there is a national shortage of drivers, with Connecticut reporting almost 700 unfilled bus driver positions statewide, the biggest concern was the possibility of a lack of drivers, and it was not an issue for Shelton.

One parent stated that her son told her his bus was so crowded, he was forced to stand the entire ride. Another wrote that one bus has 77 students assigned on it, and her son told her they had to split the kids into two buses, and then the two buses followed each other stopping at all the stops together.

Others stated that children reported some buses had children with no masks, calling into question the safety of the buses at this point.

Shelton Student Transportation Services Director Ken Nappi said the city company, like others in the state and country, is dealing with the driver shortage  but in Shelton there are enough drivers to cover all routes each day.

The major concern for the drivers and our company is the safety of the students ... we will not allow for a situation in which the students safety is put at risk, Nappi said. Our bus drivers are special people, and they take their responsibility seriously.

Nappi said one bus was determined to have too many students, but it did not leave the school until a second bus was brought to the site to break up the large group. He did not directly address parents comments about students not wearing masks or standing on the bus.

I expect the first few days to be hectic, as it is in any system, Nappi said. We will try our best to correct the problems that surface. We will strive to make it better and fulfill our responsibility to the students and parents of this city.

Nappi also praised the drivers, saying these individuals remained with SSTS when they might have found more money with other operations.

They decided to stay, Nappi said, adding that many of these drivers have been transporting the same students for years and have developed relationships with the children and parents over that time.

Saranich said, aside from the busing issues, day one was like any other regular opening day.

It was a great day, he said. We safely and successfully returned all of our students to full day in-person instruction. We will continue to work with (Shelton Student Transportation Services) to resolve all the issues.

Students are happy to be back, and we are happy to be back with them, Saranich added.

Board of Education Chair Kathy Yolish said she was made aware there were some delays in picking up students as well as arriving home on time.

The first few days have always had these glitches, and I am sure it will improve, Yolish said.

brian.gioiele@hearstmediact.com
Shippensburg, PA (17257)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms becoming likely this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 87F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening followed by occasional showers overnight. Low around 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
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Massoud,who was leading the last remaining resistance to the Taliban capture of Afghanistan, was killed by suicide bombers of the Taliban and al-Qaeda in his residence on September 9, 2001, two days before the 9/11. After the Taliban's fall in 2001, he was declared the national hero of the country and September 9 was marked as martyr day.

Unsurprisingly, the Taliban detest Massoud and his clan. They even tried to destroy his tomb in Panjshir on Tuesday.

Two decades later, Massoud's son Ahmad Massoud is once again fighting the Taliban to protect his father's legacy. He is ably assisted by Amrullah Saleh, a former aide to Afghanistan's famous war hero.

"The Taliban want the world to recognize them, and then they want to oppress the Afghan people again," Ahmad Massoud has declared. "If someone invades our land, we will fight against it and defend ourselves and the rights of the Afghan people."

The junior Massoud has launched a guerrilla war against the Taliban who have managed to capture parts of the Panjshir valley with the active support of the Pakistani army.

Pakistani Air Force planes and special forces battalions provided military support to the Taliban operation in Panjshir, Russian news agency Sputnik reported on Wednesday. The report says that four JF-7 fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force including 27 Pakistani special forces helicopters and drones, are assisting the Taliban in their quest.

Like Italy, many embassies of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan are opposing the regime of Islamic Emirate Afghanistan foisted by the Taliban. Afghanistan's embassy in India has also refused to represent the Taliban government. Abdulhaq Azad, a spokesperson of the Afghan embassy in Delhi told Deccan Herald that it will continue to represent the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in India and not the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan established by the Taliban.

"The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in New Delhi will continue to provide services to the citizens of Afghanistan in India," Azad said.

Earlier, during the Taliban's aggression, the Afghan envoy had asked India to help his country with airpower against the Taliban.

"The avoidable suffering of Afghanistan is man-made and at a scale beyond all civilised contemplation," he had said. Afghanistan is going through a difficult time, and only good leadership, compassionate attitude and international support to the Afghan people "would somewhat bring an end to these miseries", Farid Mamundzay, the Afghan envoy observed.

This is a repeat of 1996 when the then Afghan ambassador to India Masoud Khalili refused to pledge allegiance to the Taliban following India's refusal to recognise the Taliban regime. Khalili, was a close friend of Ahmad Shah Massoud, the leader of the anti-Taliban force the Northern alliance.

The previous Taliban regime was recognised only by Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

While countries of the world have yet to decide about giving recognition to the Taliban government, all the Afghan embassies will be known as representatives of the previous Afghan government, as per the recognition by the United Nations.

Other Afghan embassies have also refused to pledge allegiance to the Taliban government. Ashraf Haidari, Afghanistan's ambassador to Sri Lanka has been always critical of the Taliban. On Tuesday, he slammed the Taliban for their government formations.

"The beginning of the end of imposed totalitarianism: foreign madrassa militants deployed to target Afghans -- Afghan women -- at point-blank range is unforgivable by any standards of humanity. The UN knows, Biden knows which UN member-state plays with Afghan lives," Haidari posted on Twitter.

Said T Jawad, Kabul's envoy to Russia, retweeted a video of protests by Afghans in front of the Embassy of Pakistan in the capital of his country.

Shukria Barakzai, Afghan envoy in Oslo retweeted a post from a journalist which slammed the Taliban. "The Taliban government has 33 mullahs and 4 people under US sanctions but zero women or people from other political groups. Son of late leader Mullah Omar is Defence Minister. They say they have changed but this is hardline."

Afghanistan's envoy to Tajikistan Mohammad Zahir Aghbar had accused the Taliban and Pakistan of plotting to kill anti-resistance leaders Ahmad Massoud and acting president Amrullah Saleh in the Panjshir battle.

It may be recalled how Pakistani security agencies ill treated the Afghan envoy's daughter's kidnapping case, following which, the then Afghan government had to recall its diplomats from Pakistan.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)

--indianarrative
The Chinese drone has been developed to boost its ability to photograph and analyse the landscape on future missions to the red planet, the South China Morning Post reported.

Beijing, Sep 8 (IANS) China has developed a prototype Mars drone similar to US space agency NASA's Ingenuity helicopter2, media reports said on Wednesday.

The drone would serve as a navigator for a rover as it explores the surface of Mars, the project's chief scientist was quoted as saying.

The drone would be able to capture images and travel several hundred metres in a single flight, Bian Chunjiang, a researcher with the National Space Science Centre, was quoted as saying to Global Times.

It would help a rover to locate and drive towards features of the landscape with greater speed and precision, making missions more efficient, Bian said.

He said further research efforts would focus on the drone's survival for long periods in the complex Mars environment, the report said.

Both the American and Chinese drones have two blades to provide lift in the thin Martian atmosphere, Richard de Grijs, professor of astrophysics at Australia's Macquarie University was quoted as saying.

While Ingenuity has a solar panel on top to keep its battery charged, Chinese researchers are considering using solar energy or wireless charging for power supply, or both, the report said.

In 2020, China launched its first independent Mars exploration mission -- Zhu Rong. Last week it marked the 100th Martian day of its operation on the red planet.

China plans to retrieve samples from the planet in 2030 and send crews there for exploration in 2033.

--IANS

rvt/vd
She was speaking at Council president Ireland's signature event on transitions from UN peacekeeping operations, where Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also emphasised the importance of the need to tailor the ending of operations to the conditions on the ground.

"India's approach to peacebuilding is to respect national ownership and to be guided by host state's development priorities," Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi told the UN Security Council on Wednesday.

"Peacekeeping missions can help put a country on the right track, but only local stakeholders can keep it there in the long-term," Guterres said.

Addressing the Council, Lekhi said: "Full respect for the full sovereignty of a country can never be overemphasised. The transition strategies should recognise the primacy of national governments and national ownership in identifying and driving priorities.

"We are convinced that 'human centric', gender sensitive and technologically primed solutions and the robust functioning of democratic institutions of governance that give all stakeholders a saying in creating a better future is the biggest guarantee for the success of peacebuilding and for sustaining peace."

The Council meeting focused on the crucial phase of the ending of peacekeeping operations that have brought stability to a conflict-torn country when the work of the UN and other agencies switch to peacebuilding or helping the country rebuild itself and govern itself effectively.

Lekhi said: "The drawdown of a UN peacekeeping operation and its reconfiguration into a modified minimal presence represents a critical phase for the success of a UN peacekeeping mission for the host country. On the one hand, t signals progress towards political stability and new development opportunities but on the other hand it also presents a real risk of the country relapsing into conflict."

It is important to actively support the post-conflict peacebuilding and recovery initiatives of the countries that hosted the peacekeeping operations, she said.

"The efforts of the UN in peacebuilding should be strengthened by providing it adequate financial resources if necessary by engaging international financial institutions, the private sector and civil society organisations."

Representing a national that is a leading technology innovator, the Minister said: "Technology, especially digital technology, can play a crucial role in post-conflict peacebuilding to improve public service promote transparency in governance and enhance the reach of democracy promote human rights and gender sensitivity."

She said that the drawdown of the peacekeeping operations should not be rushed due to "temptations of austerity" because if the country were to relapse into the situation that in the first place necessitated the UN intervention the costs would be higher.

Lekhi noted it was critical to have an effective mandate for the peacekeeping mission and achieve the benchmark transition.

A country transitioning from peacekeeping to peacebuilding should be given adequate resources mobilised through international financial institutions, the private sector and civil society organisations.

Lekhi empasised the importance of political solutions to the roots of the conflict to achieve peace and stability.

"Political stakeholders should strive for the creation of political and administrative institutions that imrve governance and provide equal political opportunities for women, youth as well as marginalised and the underprivileged."

Lekhi spoke of India's commitment to peacekeeping seen in the over 250,000 peacekeepers it has sent to 49 operations, with over 5,500 serving now across nine missions.

India has also sent the first all-women contingent to a UN mission, which was deployed in Liberia becoming a role model for women and girls.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, India contributed vaccines for all peacekeepers and upgraded two of its field hospitals, she said.

(Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in and followed @arulouis)

--IANS

al/ksk/


Khanna: While planning a food festival, we were just thinking which cuisine and Indian state to tap into. We looked at the resources in our culinary team at Westin - here someone is from Uttarakhand, from Nepal, southern states, Rajasthan, Bengal - so it's quite varied. Our resident South Indian chef, Chef Vijaykumar is from Tiruchirapalli, who is with us from 2019. That's where we thought of putting this cuisine in the front, and making him the main chef for food festival.

Could you tell me about the inspiration behind 'Treasures of Trichy'?

Chef Khanna speaks to IANSlife on the sidelines of 'Treaures of Trichy' food festival which is going on at Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi till September 15. Excerpts:

There are many variations in what is singularly thought of as 'South Indian cuisine'. As a chef, what do you have to say about this?

Khanna: I also discovered this, during my last assignment in Bangalore where I traveled to Mangalore, Kerala, and to Andhra. As I travelled I realised that the cuisine is changing. Dishes even 'sambhar' and 'rasam change. Andhra-style 'sambhar' is very spicy in some places and a little sweet-ish in others. Not just the palate changes from state to state, but breakfast 'sambhar' is different from all-day 'sambhar'. The Spice level matters a lot. For example, Kannada cuisine is not that spicy, Mangalore cuisine is rich with spices, Andhra cuisine is heavy on chillies but Kerala cuisine is very fragrant.

About the stereotype, yes there are a lot of misconceptions about food among people who are not native to south Indian states or who haven't traveled much. They think South Indian cuisine is mostly just 'idli, sambhar, dosa, vada', and there are a lot of varieties of dosa. But in reality, South Indian cuisine is immense.

Chefs are experimenting with fusion styles, for instance, something like a dosa-flavoured burger. Any opinions?

Khanna: As a chef, I'd say it should not be done. A little twist to the recipe is acceptable but changing the recipe upside-down is not. Food is an element very rooted in culture. You can be just a little bit around culture, adapt but complete 180-degree changes and fusions, are not my food philosophy. Let's keep the sanctity of the cuisine as it is. It is different from doing multi-grain dosa or ragi dosa, even variations in stuffing is possible.

What's next, when it comes to food festivals at the Westin?

Khanna: Next would be regional as well. I'd discover some more regional talent from my team first. Maybe I could do a travel flow within Uttar Pradesh, and bring out regional variations among UP dishes."

(Siddhi Jain can be contacted at siddhi.j@ians.in)

--IANS

sj/tb
He said the government's aim is that the history of the Indian subcontinent should be written from Tamil Nadu will be established with proof.

Chennai, Sep 9 (IANS) With archaeological findings in Tamil Nadu dating back to 4th century BC, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday said studies will be conducted in Egypt, South East Asian countries and some Indian states in search of the ancient Tamil civilisation.

Announcing this in the Assembly on Thursday, Stalin said carbon dating of the paddy found in a burial urn at a burial site at Sivakalai establishes that it belongs to 1155 BC which in turn means people had lived on the banks of the Thamirabarani river 3,200 years ago.

The paddy was sent to the Beta Analytical Laboratory in the US for carbon dating.

He said the findings of artefacts at the excavation sites proves that the civilisation existed prior to 4th century BC.

Stalin said a silver coin that was found at the Keezhadi excavation with sun, moon engravings belong to 4th century BC, that is prior to the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka's period as per the opinion of numismatics expert Susmita Basu Majumbar of Calcutta University.

Archaeological excavations are being done at Kodumanal, Keeladi, Korkai, Mayiladumparai, Sivakalai, Adichchanallur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram in Tamil Nadu.

Stalin said as per the carbon dating of artefacts, the Keeladi civilisation dates back to 6th century BC proving that Tamilians were learned even then.

That Korkai was a port city in ancient times was an established fact through earlier excavations. Now broken black pot pieces of Gangetic plains have been found at Korkai.

Experts have concluded that Korkai might have served as one of the important ports even before the 8th century BC.

Officials said the Mayiladumparai excavation and its associated findings observed at Varatanapalli and Kappalavadi prove that the Neolithic people carried out agricultural activities 4000 years ago.

With Tamil Nadu trade links extending till Egypt and Oman in ancient times as per artefacts found in those countries and Chola Emperor Rajendra Chola conquering South East Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam archaeological studies will be conducted in those countries with necessary permissions.

Similarly archaeological studies will also be undertaken in other Indian states like Andhra Pradesh (Vengi area), Karnataka (Thalaikkadu), Kerala (Pattanam) and Palur in Odisha to understand the antiquity of Tamil civilisation.

Apart from excavations, exploration projects -- Neolithic and Documentation of Rock Art -- are in progress in Tamil Nadu.

The Tamil Nadu State Archaeology Department is re-establishing the cultural history of Tamil Nadu through scientific studies.

The Department is collaborating with Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow and French Institute of Pondicherry to understand the palaeoclimate; a DNA analysis is being done in collaboration with Madurai Kamaraj University, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences and Chicago University to understand the origin of Tamils; Metallurgical analysis is being done in association with National Institute of Advanced Studies to understand the iron, steel and high tin bronze technology; Ceramic analysis is being carried out with the help of Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam and Pune University.

The Tamil Nadu government has allocated Rs 5 crore in its budget for archaeological findings.

The government will also set up a museum at an outlay of Rs 15 crore at Tirunelveli showcasing the artefacts found during excavations at Adichchanallur, Korkai and Sivakalai.

--IANS

vj/bg
Back in 1997 and the height of the war between the Taliban and Ahmed Shah Massoud's Northern Alliance. I and my team were on our second visit to the war-torn country with a specific assignment- to interview the chief of the Northern Alliance Ahmad Shah Massoud who has declared that he was still the acting Defence minister of the country after Taliban's illegal capture of Kabul in 1996.

India had agreed to "help" Massoud, the one who was called the Lion of Panjshir because of his record of having thwarted nine attempts by Soviet forces to take Panjshir valley. When the Taliban took Kabul in 1996, Massoud fled to Tajikistan and started building a coalition to win back Afghanistan. He became the leader of the United Islamic Front for the salvation of Afghanistan or what the world came to know as the Northern Alliance. New Delhi began to provide covert help to 'Commander' as Ahmad Shah was called, to build up relations with the Northern Alliance.

It was in that backdrop we travelled to Dushanbe in the winter of early of 1997, the capital of Tajikistan and from there we were taken to the Farkhor air base, maintained by India on the border of Tajikistan and Afghanistan. Next chopper ride was across the border to Khwaja Bahauddin village of Takhar province in Afghanistan, which was known as the first stop over on the way to Panjshir valley.

After a night halt at the guest house of the Northern Alliance, next early morning we started for the destination. The 8 hours long drive through treacherous mountain roads remains unforgettable- rusting Soviet tanks and armoured vehicles in mangled heaps, graveyard of the killing machines, huge cannons, silent and rusting. Finally, we reached Bazarak, the capital city of Panjshir province where we met Massoud.

He looked as iconic as Che Guevara - with his trademark double layered felt cap. He told us that he wanted to be an architect when, as a youth, after graduating from a French school in Kabul. He had had then joined a polytechnic college to study architecture. Instead, he was to spend half his life as the architect of Afghanistan's liberation by mastering guerrilla warfare.

Massoud told us that the Taliban's claim of controlling 90% of Afghanistan is a lie.

"If they had held 90 percent of Afghanistan's territory, such a situation would not have existed. The claim is totally false and carries no weight. In fact, over 30 percent of Afghanistan's territory which matter and heavily populated are under our control."

He added: "Our main target is to restore peace in Afghanistan and defeat the Pakistanis. We believe that the problem of Afghanistan does not have a military solution. But our achieving a military balance and equilibrium is essential."

Massoud pointed out that his perception of Islam is different from the Taliban's preaching.

Massoud said his Islam was as soft where there was no place of discriminations or gender biases.

He told us that he started waging war with just 20 men, 10 Kalashnikovs, one machine-gun and two rocket launchers and was very much influenced by Mao, Che and Ho Chi Minh and their revolutionary tactics to rouse rural peasants. But he didn't believe that war was the solution.

"I told the Taliban delegations that came here for talks with us in the Panjshir, that you claim to represent the Pashtun tribes - fine, we agree. You say that the majority of Afghanistan is under our control - we agree. You say that the people accept us - we agree. Fine, if there is such a level of confidence - then let's go toward elections, what are you worried about? In place of so much warfare and bloodshed, move toward elections and legitimately attain power," he said.

But Massoud was clear in mind that as long as Pakistan was behind the Taliban, there won't be any peace in his country.

"We have said that Pakistan, since the times of Zia ul-Haq and since the Soviet and communist aggression against the Afghans, has adopted a program and a strategy to enable it in the future to use Afghanistan as a springboard for its affairs in Central Asia and also to become a regional axis and superpower".

In an hour-long interview, Massoud acknowledged that Afghans had their share of internal problems, and that part of this crisis stemmed from internal causes.

"I repeat that as long as the international community does not exert the necessary pressure on Pakistan, and as long as it does not stop the hand of Pakistani interference in Afghan affairs, it is certain that the flames of war in this country will never be extinguished."

His hatred for the Pakistan was obvious.

"Pakistan wants to show that Afghans are uncultured and uncivilised and they had nothing in the past and have always led a tribal life and have become accustomed to tribal habits and will always remain so and thus it is their strategy to destroy the identity of Afghans".

Talking about India, Massoud was very appreciative of the help.

"We thank India for supporting us. We have built a good relationship and we consider it to be a positive step. India does understand us. We have an embassy in Delhi. I am grateful to you, your people of India. Relations between India and Afghanistan are older than Pakistan's birth. We both have few common enemies," Massoud smiled.

We stayed there for two days, translating his interview with his interpreter and roaming around the valley with his commanders. This was my second meeting with Massoud. Last I met him when he was waging war against the Russia supported regime in 1990.

Back to present : Ahmad Shah Massoud's son Ahmad Massoud is fighting against the same force but this time he still does not have similar outside support, like his father had. Nothing has changed, same Pakistan and same Taliban - will history repeat itself?

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)

--indianarrative
Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba, who is the board's chairperson, rolled out the "Business Plan 2021-2025" on the occasion of its 10th anniversary on Wednesday, reports Xinhua news agency.

Kathmandu, Sep 9 (IANS) The Investment Board Nepal (IBN), a high-level government body formed to facilitate large-scale investments, has unveiled a strategic plan aiming to attract projects worth $10 billion in the next five years.

"The IBN aims at attracting projects worth $10 billion in the next five years as per the plan," the IBN statement.

Under the five-year business plan, efforts would be made to create jobs for at least 100,000 people through the implementation of investment proposals.

Addressing the anniversary ceremony, Deuba said his government is committed to creating a conducive environment for private sector investment through necessary legal and policy reforms.

He acknowledged, however, that attracting large-scale investments in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic is challenging.

"The Covid-19 has led nations to lean toward inward investments, so attracting investments is likely to be more challenging," he said.

According to Deuba, Nepal faces an annual fiscal gap of $6 billion in its effort to achieve sustainable development goals by 2030.

"The IBN has an important role to play in mobilising private sector investments, including FDI (foreign direct investment), to fulfil this gap," he said.

On the occasion, Finance Minister Janardan Sharma also said that domestic resources are not adequate to take the country toward strong economic growth.

"We want to bring foreign investments and encourage domestic private sector too," he said. "But we have to approve the investment proposals in a timely manner so that the investors could implement the projects at a cost as low as possible."

According to Sharma, who is vice chairperson of the IBN, the board has approved investments worth 833 billion NPR ($7 billion) for 27 projects over the past decade.

--IANS

ksk/
Yle said both victims were residents of the nursing home, and the suspect was allegedly also a resident there, reports Xinhua news agency.

Helsinki, Sep 9 (IANS) A violent attack at an elderly nursing home in Finland's city of Turku left one of the residents dead and another injured, national broadcaster Yle reported.

Police are investigating the case as murder and aggravated assault.

Minna Arve, mayor of Turku, conveyed her deepest condolences to the relatives of the deceased on Wednesday.

"The acts of violence are a really serious and shocking thing. We will do our best to find out the causes of the events, provide crisis assistance to those who need it, and investigate the case thoroughly," Arve said in a press release.

Meanwhile, the nursing home will continue to operate normally throughout the police investigation, without removing the residents, the Mayor confirmed in the press release.

The nursing home is run by the city of Turku.

It hosts 29 elderly residents, most of whom suffer from memory disorders.

--IANS

ksk/
Stalin was encouraged by the carbon dating analysis of rice with soil found in a burial urn in Sivakalai in Tirunelveli district that has yielded the date of 1155 BC. He said that the findings have established that the Porunai river (Thamirabarani) civilization dates back 3200 years.

Chennai, Sep 9 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said that the state government must scientifically prove that the history of the Indian subcontinent commenced from Tamil landscape. He was speaking in the legislative assembly on Thursday.

The Beta Testing Laboratory in Miami, US, had released the test report on August 27. Stalin said that archaeological surveys must be carried out in other states and in foreign countries in search of Tamil roots there.

He said in the first phase research would be conducted in Kerala at the ancient port of Musiri now known as Pattanam. He said, "The research for this will be done jointly with the archaeologists of Kerala to establish the ancientness and culture of the Chola country." Similar studies would be undertaken at Thalaikadu in Karnataka, Vengi in Andhra Pradesh, and Palur in Odisha.

Stalin informed that the state archaeological department would conduct research in Quseir-al-Qadim and Pernica Aneka in Egypt that was once part of the Roman empire. He said that research would be conducted in Khor Rori in Oman to establish the trade relations that Tamils had with these countries.

The CM said that pottery shards with Tamizhi script have been found in these countries and studies would be conducted along with the archaeologists of those countries regarding the connection between Tamils and the people there.

Studies would also be undertaken in South East Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia where the Chola King Rajendra Chola had established himself.

Stalin announced that a museum would be set up at Tirunelveli at a cost of Rs 15 crore to display the archaeological artifacts found at the excavation sites of Adichanallur, Sivakalai and Korkai.

--IANS

aal/bg
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National Australia Bank chief executive Ross McEwan has confirmed the bank is examining millions of customer accounts as part of an internal project to plug holes in its anti-money laundering regime, under questioning during a heated parliamentary exchange.

The Age and Sydney Morning Herald first revealed in June that NAB had launched a secret internal project dubbed Project Apollo to work through a backlog of customer accounts that had insufficient identification records.

NAB chief Ross McEwan has admitted the bank is trawling through millions of customer records to plug holes in its anti-money laundering regime. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Consulting firm Accenture was hired to assist with the mammoth project, which involved trawling through hundreds of thousands of customer profiles, after duplicate accounts or out-of-date identification documents exposed the bank to criminal infiltration.

During a parliamentary economics committee on Thursday, Liberal MP Julian Simmonds quoted this mastheads reporting that NAB had not updated the occupation of student bank accounts for 20 years, adding scenarios like that are ripe for organised crime to take advantage of them.
Cascade Investment, the firm that manages the fortune of Bill Gates, is buying half of a Saudi billionaires stake in Four Seasons for $US2.2 billion ($3 billion)  making Gates the majority owner of the luxury hotel chain.

The deal was announced on Wednesday morning by Cascade and Kingdom Holding, the investment firm of the Saudi billionaire, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Gates stake in Four Seasons will increase to about 71 per cent, from a little less than 50 per cent.

Microsoft billionaire Bill Gates is now controllling the Four Seasons hotel chain. Credit:AP

The transaction comes on the heels of Gates divorce last month from Melinda French Gates, the Microsoft founders wife of nearly three decades.

Few details of their division of cash and assets as part of the divorce are known. But Cascade continues to manage much of the Gates fortune, as well as the endowment of the Gates Foundation, the charity the former couple co-founded in 2000.
Crown Resorts has handed over $9.7 million in termination payouts to three of the top executives who have departed the crisis-stricken casino giant as part of its boardroom exodus.

The James Packer-backed group gave former chief executive Ken Barton a $3.4 million golden handshake following his resignation in February, according to Crowns annual report released on Thursday.

Crown Resorts former chairman Helen Coonan (left) with Crowns then-boss Ken Barton. Mr Barton was paid $6.7 million in 2021, including a $3.3 million golden handshake. Credit:Eamon Gallagher

In her damning findings that Crown was unfit to hold its Sydney casino licence, former NSW Supreme Court judge Patricia Bergin said that Mr Barton was no match for what is needed at the group after evidence emerged he failed to act on evidence of money laundering in company bank accounts.

Mr Bartons take home pay for the 2021 financial year, including his $1.9 million salary, was $5.4 million, the annual report says. He also received an extra $1.4 million for his accrued annual and long-service leave, bringing his pay for the year to $6.7 million.
Records show the vendor was Waratah Properties, which bought the factory behind Westgarth Primary School, in 1973. The company was formerly known as Steiger and Boehm, a company which featured in the 1982 Royal Commission into the Meat Industry for its part in the 1970s meat substitution scandal. Colliers agents Joe Kairouz, Hamish Burgess and Josef Dickinson declined to confirm a price which is probably around the $10 million mark. The firm has sold $130 million worth of property in the inner-north this year, including 232 Banskia Street in Bellfield for $25 million: another $30 million for Mirvacs purchase of a motel at 699 Park Street, East Brunswick; $21 million on 81a Bell Street in Coburg and a $16.5 million deal in Ballarat Street, Brunswick. Blakes Feast

Boutique caterer Blakes Feast has slid into one of the tightest retail strips in Melbourne, taking space at 111 Church Street, Brighton. The caterer has signed a five-year lease, with a five-year option on the double-storey 110 sq m building. It will become Blakes second Blakeaway in Melbourne, cooking and selling a range of prepared meals, bread and pastries for the takeaway market. Fitzroys agent Tom Fisher did the deal at $70,000 a year. Launched in 2020, Blakeaway originally sold prepared meals from the Blakes Feast kitchens via online shopping. Other outlets are in Glen Iris and Portsea.

Mr Fisher said food and beverage deals are on the increase. Demand for takeaway and delivery services has surged while Melburnians go through intermittent lockdowns, he said. About half the leases struck by Fitzroys this year have been to food and beverage operators, well above the 28.4 per cent they usually occupy, according to Fitzroys new Walk the Strip report. While other retail strips are suffering, the report shows Church Street vacancies are running at just 0.7 per cent, the sharpest in Melbourne. Truckstops unite

The regional commercial property market is expected to get a serious boost with the mass migration of Melbournes suburbanites from the city. A new servo in Stawell, still under construction, has sold 10 days before the start of a public sales campaign, fetching $8 million. The United Truckstop, at 1-7 Horsham Road, is leased for 15 years at $450,000 a year, giving the deal a yield of 5.6 per cent. The 314 sq m shop, with a Pie Face outlet, is on a 1.138 ha site. The transaction was negotiated by Stonebridge Property Group agents Rorey White, Kevin Tong and Justin Dowers.

Its not just sales. Leasing deals are also getting done in quick time. A-Ps Zelman Ainsworth and Leedwell Propertys Chris Parry have leased a former Target Country shop in Myrtleford to the Reject Shop. The 1035 sq m Target, at 153-157 Myrtle Street, closed in early April and was leased off-market within weeks of the agents coming on board. The Reject Shop has signed a five-year lease. Market rents for regional showrooms are running at between $180,000 to $220,000 a year gross. Flower power

Fruit and veg behemoth LaManna Premier has sold another of its former Yarraville warehouses for $8.85 million. Records show Santospirito Flower Wholesalers snapped up the vacant 7188 sq m property at 360-374 Whitehall Street, settling at the end of August. The acquisition consolidates the Santospirito holdings in this corner of Yarraville. The flower wholesaler bought LaMannas other redundant warehouses in 2019, paying $4.4 million for 1 Minnie Street and $2.2 million for 320 Whitehall Street. Its a sizeable 12,000 sq m chunk of land opposite the docks. Santospirito, which has flower farms in Torquay, moved its wholesale operations into 1 Minnie Street last year. LaManna Premier has retained its head office on Hyde Street, Footscray, but has moved its warehousing to Epping, near the Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable market.

CBREs Bryce Pane, Harry Kalaitzis and Tom Hayes managed the deal which fetched a building rate of $3528 a sq m. There was significant interest in this last-mile, cold-storage facility, resulting in a strong sale price, Mr Pane said. Strata office Seven strata office owners on Richmond Hill have finally agreed to sell up their 987 sq m property. Seven strata offices for sale in one go. Credit:

The double-storey offices at 193A Lennox Street, just off Bridge Road, are arranged in a U shape with a central courtyard. Theyre owned by a range of surgeons, physiotherapists, lawyers and private investors. Colliers agents Anthony Kirwan, Alex Browne and Leon Ma are handling expressions of interest and expect more than $10 million. The site is behind Poly Australias 3437 sq m site which stretches from Bridge Road to Allowah Terrace and next door at 195 Lennox Street. Institute offloads The Southern Cross Institute is off-loading its West Melbourne campus.
For the worlds biggest money managers, Chinas trillions in investable assets speak louder than any warnings of a tragic mistake from billionaire George Soros.

About a day after Soros called out BlackRock in a Wall Street Journal op-ed, the $US9.5 trillion ($12.9 trillion) asset manager said it drew in 6.7 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) for its first China mutual fund, closing fundraising days ahead of schedule so it could invest sooner.

It had just launched the debut product last week, about two months after becoming the first foreign firm allowed to start a wholly owned mutual fund business in the worlds second-largest economy.

Life and death conflict: Investing billions of dollars in China now will likely damage the national security interests of the US and other democracies, billionaire investor George Soros warns. Credit:Simon Dawson

The rush to scale up in China goes beyond BlackRock. Fidelity Investments won its license from the China Securities Regulatory Commission last month, even as President Xi Jinping redoubled efforts to crack down on businesses from real estate to tech. Invesco, an early entrant with the first China-US fund management joint venture in 2003, has said it wants to increase its China assets by more than 40 per cent to $US100 billion by 2023.
Beijing: As a student at Peking University law school in 1978, Li Keqiang kept both pockets of his jacket stuffed with handwritten paper slips. An English word was written on one side, a former classmate recalled, and the matching Chinese version was written on the other.

Li, now the Chinese Premier, was part of the countrys English-learning craze. A magazine called Learning English sold half-million subscriptions that year. In 1982, about 10 million Chinese households  almost equivalent to Chinese TV ownership at the time  watched Follow Me, a BBC English-learning program with lines like, Whats your name? My name is Jane.

Last year, Chinas education authority barred primary and junior high schools from using overseas textbooks. A government adviser recommended this year that the countrys annual college entrance examination stop testing English. Credit:Getty Images

It is hard to exaggerate the role English has played in changing the countrys social, cultural, economic and political landscape. English is almost synonymous with Chinas reform and opening-up policies, which transformed an impoverished and hermetic nation into the worlds second-biggest economy.

That is why it came as a shock to many when education authorities in Shanghai, its most cosmopolitan city, last month forbade local elementary schools to hold final exams on the English language.
Drums pounded and electricity surged through the amplifiers flanking Amy Taylor. It was as if the wildly magnetic singer had been plugged in herself, shocked into a high voltage performance as Amyl and the Sniffers detonated under a barrage of stage lights.

The mostly young, boisterous crowd packed in front of Taylor three years ago at the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles eagerly soaked up the action, leaving the Melbourne band thrilled with a loud, sweaty and raucous night of rock n roll far from home.

From left: Amy Taylor, Bryce Williams, Gus Romer and Dec Martens. Credit:Jamie Wdziekonski

It was a sold-out show ... no gap between the audience and the stage was just the right height. It was high energy, recalls Taylor, now under her hometowns strict lockdown rules. It was pretty fun in L.A. ... theres some nice people there but theres also some absolute air heads. We stayed there for two weeks before we recorded the first album.

Now with second album Comfort To Me released this week, Taylor is typically frank about what inspired the bands new songs, the joys of house-sharing with a really good hot chip shop around the corner and the exhilaration of pouring every ounce of energy into shows.
We all know what came next. A steamy 160-page report to Congress. Oral sex jokes on late-night television, and an uptick in cigar sales. The impeachment hearings. A tarnished political legacy. And a young intern who once dreamed of becoming a forensic psychologist whose identity was now seemingly carved in stone: that woman. Lewinsky was a 22-year-old White House intern when her affair with the president began. Credit:The New York Times Since then, Lewinsky tried reinventing herself repeatedly, for a long time without much success. There was a failed handbag line. A brief stint in reality TV. Moving overseas. Nearly a decade of self-imposed silence. But that began to change in 2014, with an essay in Vanity Fair  in which she declared it was time to burn the beret and bury the blue dress and bring a purpose to my past  and then a TED Talk the following year, about the public humiliation she endured. Together they told a new version of her story at a time when the culture seemed ready to hear it  amid greater awareness about bullying and trauma and a more sophisticated understanding of sexual power dynamics. The world was now understanding her side of things, said David Friend, her editor at Vanity Fair, where she is a contributor. She has since found paid work campaigning against bullying and speaking on the subject. She has slowly made her way into producing, including an upcoming documentary about public shame and a newly-formed production company, aptly titled Alt Ending.

But Impeachment, which premiered on September 8 on Binge, is the most personal  and arguably the most prominent  chapter in her rehabilitation. Loading The good news for Lewinsky is that this time shes shaping the story herself. The bad, perhaps, is that it means reliving the darkest period of her life  and introducing it to at least one generation that wasnt around to see it. She still isnt exactly sure how she feels about the whole thing. And yet there she was at the reception, in the company of so many of those who once made a living mocking her, preparing to revisit the same drama from which she has spent half a lifetime trying to move on. She looked happy, smiling as she greeted dozens of well-wishers, but also slightly wary. When you have made a colossal mistake like I did so early in your life, and lost so much because of it, the idea of making a mistake is catastrophic, she told me later. And yet in order to move forward, I have to take risks. I have to try things. I have to continue to define who I am.

I wanted to be treated normally I first met Lewinsky seven years ago, as she was preparing to re-emerge after nearly a decade out of the spotlight. I had come of age in the Clinton era. As a teen, I vividly remember poring over the Starr report with friends, too young to understand the complexities or power dynamics of the presidents affair with a young intern, but old enough to know there was something we werent supposed to like about that woman  the one the president, in a news conference, angrily denied having had sexual relations with. When I got to know Lewinsky, more than a decade later, she was 41, but without many of the things a person her age might want: a permanent residence, a source of income, a career path, a family of her own. While the rest of the world  the Clintons, the news media, even the other women involved  had moved on, she was seemingly frozen in time. Not for lack of trying. In 2005, she once again tried to start over, moving to London for a masters degree in social psychology. She hoped she might be able to resume what her therapist at the time called a normal developmental track. I wanted a job, I wanted a husband, I wanted kids, she said. I wanted to be treated normally.

But she could never quite escape the shadow that hung over her name. After graduate school, she moved briefly to Portland, Oregon, where she tried, and failed, to get a job in marketing. I must have applied for 50 jobs, she said. And so she retreated. She moved back to Los Angeles, where she had grown up, still dependent on her parents for financial support. She volunteered and spent time with friends, and worked with a variety of mental health specialists (she had been diagnosed with PTSD after the events of 98). All the while, she continued to turn down offers to capitalise on her story: television, books, plays, a graphic novel, and hundreds of interviews. (The last time somebody counted, there were 128 rap songs that cite her name.) Lewinsky tried myriad ways to reinvent herself over the years, for a long time without much success. But that started to change when she began publicly discussing the humiliation she endured. Credit:Ryan Pfluger/The New York Times Recently, she found herself on a road near Pasadena that jolted her back to that aimless time in LA, when shed drive long distances to pass the time. It was a dark, dark time, she said. I just had no purpose. Then, in 2010, Tyler Clementi, a student at Rutgers University, killed himself after his roommate used a webcam to film him in an intimate encounter with another man. Lewinsky had no connection to Clementi, but her mother was beside herself with grief. She later realised her mother was reliving a time when she sat by my bed at night, and made me shower with the bathroom door open, out of fear she might take her own life.

Lewinsky had spent time thinking about the impact of shame on the psyche; in graduate school, she had studied the effects of trauma on identity. But her mothers response triggered something more urgent in her. She thought back to a conversation shed had with a professor in graduate school  about how there was no competing narrative to her story. Could she be the one to write her way out? There is no perfect formula to reclaiming a narrative. And yet something about her Vanity Fair essay clicked. David Letterman expressed remorse over how he had mocked her. She was invited to speak at TED, and then at the Cannes Lions Festival and others, and not to talk about what happened then but about what was happening now. She became a catalyst for broader reconsideration of some of the other women who were cast aside in that era  Tonya Harding, Lorena Bobbitt, even Britney Spears, each now the subject of more thoughtful film or TV treatments. It was only a matter of time before Hollywood rediscovered Lewinsky. In 2017, Murphy had optioned the rights to A Vast Conspiracy, a bestselling book on the Clinton scandal by Jeffrey Toobin, who last year faced his own public scandal. (He is not involved in the show.) Then #MeToo happened. Lewinsky, who has always maintained that her relationship with Clinton was consensual, wrote about the complexity of those power dynamics in another essay. (Power imbalances  and the ability to abuse them  do exist even when the sex has been consensual, she wrote.) Everywhere, it seemed, the legacies of powerful men were being re-examined, as were those of vilified women.

Murphy ran into Lewinsky at a party, and told her: Nobody should tell your story but you, and its kind of gross if they do. He asked her to come on as a producer. She would have preferred there be no television series at all, she said. But if it was going to happen  and if it wasnt Murphy, it eventually would be somebody else  she wanted to be in the room. Its much better to be going through this as part of something, she said, than to be desperately trying to find out whats on the show. Teetering between past and present These days, Lewinsky spends much of her time on other projects as well: she is putting the finishing touches on the documentary she is executive producing with director Max Joseph, 15 Minutes of Shame, which will air on HBO Max next month. She is working with producer Stacey Sher on a series reimagining a literary classic also about sex and shame. In June, she signed a producing deal with 20th Television.

But two weeks before the premiere of Impeachment, she was getting anxious. We were at her apartment in Los Angeles, which overlooks the flats of Beverly Hills where she grew up. She was in a T-shirt and jeans, her hair in a messy bun, with candles and incense burning. An Ed Ruscha print with the word Miracle, a gift from a friend, was behind her. Beanie Feldstein plays Lewinsky in Impeachment, which portrays President Clintons scandals from the perspectives of the women involved. Credit:FX Networks That morning, her PTSD had flared up. She wasnt sure what caused it, exactly, but it had been building. Earlier in the week, shed had to sit for a photo shoot for this story. Now there was a reporter in her home, asking to record their conversations (you can imagine how she feels about being recorded). It would be impossible to extricate the Monica Lewinsky of today from what happened 23 years ago. Her mother, Marcia Lewis Straus, said Lewinskys experiences back then hadnt changed who she is at her core  the strong-willed little girl who could talk her into or out of anything. But it has changed how she approaches life: cautiously. Guardedly. Fiercely protective of what she has rebuilt.

Actor Alan Cumming has been a friend since they were introduced by a mutual friend in 2000, back when she almost wasnt really human to people, he said. (He described how, when they would go out to eat, on more than one occasion a diner had reached over the booth divider just to touch her.) When you realise what shes been through, the fact that she is who she is  this warm, kind, hilarious, witty person  its just remarkable. Its true: Spend more than a few minutes with Lewinsky and you quickly realise she is far smarter, and funnier  often at her own expense  than she often got credit for. She is still careful, and at times circumspect, but she is a bit looser, a bit more self-assured, than she was even a few years ago. These days, she uses her name (well, mostly) in public. She is comfortable cutting off an interview  or walking off a stage  if it goes to a place she isnt comfortable. She is financially independent for the first time  making a living from producing, speaking and consulting fees. And she can laugh about things she couldnt always. Like, say, the Clintons. When I was writing about her in 2015, Lewinsky abruptly pulled out after an artist whod painted Bill Clintons portrait said in an interview that a shadow in his painting, owned by the National Portrait Gallery, was meant to represent the affair. She was really sorry, she said, but she just felt too exposed to go forward with the article. She eventually changed her mind.

But on a recent afternoon, when we walked into a production studio for a meeting and were confronted with three giant posters bearing Hillary Clintons face  ads for the Hulu documentary, Hillary  she just chuckled. Well, thats funny, she said. It just doesnt impact me the same way, you know? she said later, when I asked how it affects her to see the Clintons in the news. They dont loom nearly as large as they did for two decades in my life. And for the record: She did support Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election. A collective conversation While Lewinsky was glad to be involved in the telling of her story in Impeachment, that doesnt mean the process was particularly pleasant.

She often had her trauma therapist with her via video as she read through scripts. She was shaken when, during production last year, she learned from her publicist that Tripp was near death. (The betrayal of that friendship, she said, was a fissure in my life that would never close up.) But in some ways, working on the show was also an exercise in blending the fragments of her identities  of figuring out, as she puts it, how to integrate the past with the present. There is the fictional Lewinsky, who buys Sassy magazine that day in the mall and helps Tripp make a spreadsheet of her sexual encounters with Clinton. Then there is the real Lewinsky, who was too terrified to buy anything that day and never made a spreadsheet (though Tripp did take notes, she said). Linda Tripp, the Pentagon employee whose secret tape recordings of Lewinsky triggered a criminal investigation of President Clinton. Credit:AP There was the younger, more tempestuous Lewinsky, whose final words to Tripp, as depicted in the first episode, are to call her a treacherous bitch. And then there is the Lewinsky of today, who wanted to make sure her former friend was portrayed with nuance, and who opted in the writers room to avoid weighing in on the dynamic between the Clintons. (It felt inappropriate, you know?)

There is Lewinsky the producer, who advised on everything from dialogue to wardrobe, said Brad Simpson, an executive producer, and who  despite the creators best efforts to not centre the show on sex  encouraged them to include that infamous moment when she flashed her g-string at the president (even though it makes her cringe). I just felt I shouldnt get a pass, she said. Lewinsky wasnt thrilled to hear about Impeachment, she said. But if it was going to happen, she wanted to be involved. Credit:Ryan Pfluger/The New York Times Loading Then there is Lewinsky the person, who has to keep reminding herself that this is a dramatisation, and that it is possible to make a show about the past while still moving forward. Though she does wonder: Will she ever be able to be done talking about it? Will we?
We brought word this week of the legal troubles of freedom campaigner Monica Smit, who has been threatening court action to protect her online brand while remanded in custody on charges of incitement and breaching public-health orders.

The high-profile anti-vax, anti-lockdown activist will be hoping for better luck in those matters than she had with an unconventional legal foray earlier this year.

Monica Smit filmed herself during her arrest. Credit:Facebook

Footage has emerged of Smit calling on her many online followers to flood the email inbox of a Victorian Supreme Court judge preparing to hear the case of one of Smits allies  disqualified lawyer Serene Teffaha  and urge the judicial officer to do the right thing by Teffaha.

Teffaha was stripped of her legal licence in March by the Legal Services Board, which was concerned about her conduct as a lawyer and her speech to a Freedom Day rally in December labelling lawyers and judges as corrupt and calling for revolution on the streets and bloodshed if we need to.
We have better intelligence than we had, and we collaborate. One of the key failures of 9/11 was a failure in intelligence and silos that blocked the sharing of information across intelligence and security agencies. Today we collaborate not only within organisations, but across governments and nations. Our joint counter-terrorism teams in Australia have shut down numerous potential attacks due to shared intelligence and collaboration.

The complexity of 9/11 was new. It wasnt a single event. It was a series of concurrent attacks that overwhelmed the security response. In defence language, it is called an asymmetric attack. Today we are permanently ready to anticipate and shut down such unexpected events.

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Within 12 hours of the 9/11 attacks, I began to develop a concept to expand the JIRU unit with a more agile and permanent capability. Later that day, I submitted my first brief, followed by a flurry of written and verbal communications to provide Australia with options to respond to these new types of threats. We needed to develop something that could assist with a response to left and right of bang. Left is the security response that deals with intelligence, research, counter-radicalisation, security screening, and so on. Right is the emergency response and management of the consequences of the bang.

I was asked to drop everything and focus on developing this concept. The new piece was creating a unit that could do both left and right and be permanently ready. It is a testament to the then deputy chief of the army and major general at the time, Peter Francis Leahy, and the then chief of the army and lieutenant general, Sir Peter John Cosgrove, who both trusted me, my training and the concept.
Earlier this week, NSW Environment Minister Matt Kean claimed he was fortressing threatened species from extinction within our national parks reserve system. His announcement was to declare 221 areas of threatened species habitat Assets of Intergenerational Significance.

Great! Environment groups joined in congratulating Kean on his intergenerational vision before looking at it in any detail.

Regent honeyeaters in the Capertee Valley, NSW. Credit:Lachlan Hall

I wanted to know what exactly the announcement was meant to achieve. The ministers media headline sounded purposeful: Zero extinctions targets set for NSW National Parks. But how exactly did the announcement go that further step needed to protect our threatened species in National Parks? After all, arent National Parks established to be a fortress against threatened species extinction in the first place?

On the day of the announcement, I could find little reference to the exact species or habitats that had been protected. I then asked around my contacts for the ministerial press release. Bingo  a small link in the PDF press release sent me to an online map. It is fair to say, what I stumbled across in that map shocked me.
Northern NSW mayors have expressed relief at being released from lockdown, but wonder whether the decision to allow Sydneysiders to travel regionally next month will result in Queensland keeping its border closed even longer.

From 12.01am on Saturday, stay-at-home orders for much of regional NSW including coastal areas from Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads will be lifted. Businesses will reopen, students will return to school and residents will regain the freedom to gather with friends and eat at restaurants.

Tweed Shire Council mayor Chris Cherry said the relief among her constituents was "absolutely palpable". However, Queensland's border closure with NSW continues to cause major consternation for the severed Tweed and Byron Bay communities which are much more closely linked to south-east Queensland than Sydney.

Deb Garske, owner of luxury accommodation 28 Degrees in Byron Bay, is keen to welcome more visitors. Credit:Elise Derwin

All eyes are turned towards to Queensland now to see how the Premier responds. Were very much hoping for a reinstatement of the bubble or a broadening of the definition of essential worker, she said.
Modelling released by the Burnet Institute on Monday showed that NSW Health was expected to be caring for more than 3400 hospital patients, including non-COVID patients, by the end of October. Loading Professor Margaret Hellard, deputy director of the institute, said the projections were based on the current outbreak restrictions being in place and that they were continuing to do work with NSW Health. Professor Alexandra Martiniuk, an epidemiologist at the University of Sydney, said she believed the measures were prioritising industry above public health, expressing surprise that some restrictions  such as allowing for large seated gatherings  would ease, even for the double-dosed. I dont think weve got enough data to say whether a person who is double-vaccinated could lead to a super-spreader event, she said.

With 30 per cent of people at this time, definitionally, not yet vaccinated, Professor Martiniuk said reopening to the extent planned was inequitable and too early. Even though there are freedoms for some, others  including the elderly, immunocompromised and those yet unable to access a vaccine  will be placed in their own personal lockdown if contact with the virus is increasingly likely, she said. Associate Professor Holly Seale, a vaccine communications researcher at UNSW, doubted the promise of greater freedom once double-dosed would be the nudge that will help everybody come forward for a shot. Those people who maybe were sitting and waiting, they may be the people who now feel a little bit more urgency to get vaccinated, she said.

Dr Seale said the way some restrictions operated  such as allowing household visits only if all adults in a household are vaccinated  could result in tensions that are not productive to encouraging those not yet vaccinated to change their mind. Loading Within households there may be a split between who is vaccinated and who is not, and navigating those conversations is difficult at the best of times, she said. Then there is the issue of access, either due to appointment availability or difficulty in making a booking or accessing a clinic. Talking about enjoying the removal of restrictions [at press conferences] isnt fair because some LGAs that are on their journey to be immunised havent had that access, Dr Seale said. Different communities are going to be at different stages.

In a paper published by the Sax Institute this week, Deakin University chair of epidemiology Professor Catherine Bennett said restrictions on large gatherings would be one of the infection control protocols likely to remain in place the longest in Australias COVID-19 response. The 70 per cent target was about when we can do small things  the 70 per cent modelling we all know about [from the Doherty Report used by national cabinet] isnt the same as this setting, Professor Bennett said in response to NSWs announcement. Although she believed the state did eventually need to stop focusing on daily cases, Professor Bennett said NSWs current numbers were likely too high to do that, although the reproductive rate of the virus was on the decline. The reality is that 70 per cent is better than 68 but not as good as 72, said ANU infectious diseases physician Professor Peter Collignon, acknowledging the need to balance restrictions against mental wellbeing.

The main time respiratory viruses transmit is in winter and early spring, so the risk will be lower when this plan comes into force, he added. Professor Collignon stressed that the NSW plan was not a UK-style Freedom Day. This is a gradual process. And allowing people to do things they want to do in a less risky way  be that with a four-square metre rule or by having people meet outside  is going to help to reduce the risk of transmission. On Thursday night the NSW Department of Education said Broderick Gillawarna School, Dundas Public School, Enfield Public School, Holroyd School, Rooty Hill Public School and Yagoona Public School would be closed on Friday, 10 September, until further notice, for cleaning and contact tracing.
Health Minister Greg Hunt has inflicted political damage on himself and the Morrison government by his reluctance to engage with Pfizer. Who knows how many lockdowns could have been avoided or lives saved if ample supplies of Pfizer had been procured earlier? By the governments exclusive focus on what is politically expedient it fails to see what needs to be done and misses the chance to secure its own credibility. They continue to be hoist on their own petard. Mark Porter, New Lambton The failure of the federal government to negotiate with Pfizer as early as possible has not only cost the nation dearly but is an amazing case of false economy. At about $20 per jab, a billion dollars purchases 50 million jabs or enough for the whole country. Think of the mental anguish and tens of billions in support payments that could have been avoided by earlier vaccination. Any surplus of vaccine ordered could have been given to poorer countries in the form of aid. Barry Spooner, Kiama I recall that it was the Prime Minister who initiated the idea of a national COVID-19 vaccination rollout program. One would have thought the mechanics required for a rollout would have been already worked out. This includes guaranteed vaccination supply chains. But this does not seem to have been the case. Not only has the PM seriously misled the Australian people, he has also grievously deceived them about the governments commitment to controlling the pandemic. Trevor Wilson, Chifley (ACT) Will Morrison be getting a trophy for his desk of a Pfizer dose with the inscription I stopped these?

Mark Pearce, Richmond

We used to operate with the Westminster concept of ministerial responsibility. When a minister was shown to massively stuff up, they would do the honourable thing and resign. Greg Hunt massively stuffed up Australias vaccination rollout, failing to take advantage of an early offer of Pfizer vaccination doses. Time to pack his bags and leave in ignominy. Neil Ormerod, Kingsgrove PM thanks expats but should apologise The PMs spin is hurtful, when he thanks expats for their sacrifice but omits to say that he has allowed many thousands of non-citizens with money or connections, to get into and out of Australia while the expat queue stalls (For the first time, PM acknowledges frustrations of expat Australians, September 9). He insults the intelligence of us all by giving half the story and his spin about sacrifice. Australians should not forget this mans duplicity when they go to the polls next year.

Barry Laing, Castle Cove No, PM, Australian expats did not make sacrifices, they themselves were sacrificed by an incompetent, irresponsible, irrational, leaderless government. Neil Kendrick, Waverley Labor left wanting

Anthony Albanese is not exactly setting the house on fire as the alternative prime minister; it makes perfect sense that former NSW premier Kristina Keneally plans to switch from the Senate to a lower house seat in western Sydney at the next federal election (Kristina Keneally eyes switch to Lower House ahead of next election, September 9). Labor needs a charismatic leader and if Keneally succeeds in winning the seat of Fowler she will join Jim Chalmers, the only alternative leadership contender at present in the House of Reps, as one capable of taking up the fight to the Morrison government. Eric Palm, Gympie (QLD) Wood be a disaster Yet another attempt is being made to profit from destruction of native forests. One defence of the project is that the company will use residue logs and waste on forest floors (Absurd woodchip plan stirs backlash, September 9). This shows an utter lack of understanding of nature, fragility, fauna protection and regrowth possibilities. It would be criminal to allow this low-value, high-volume industry to destroy more of our irreplaceable native forests. I applaud WA and its new statewide ban logging of such precious native resources. Jill Stephenson, Woolwich Put paid to payback

Niki Savvas suggestion that Scott Morrison and Josh Frydenberg should use the moral authority of their office and the loud megaphone of government to urge firms who were overpaid JobKeeper to pay the money back is to be applauded (Politics of envy wont wash now, September 9). However, that is, sadly, not how our PM perceives his role as leader of his party. We must remember his background is in advertising, and it would seem that he perceives his role as that of government super-salesman. Rosemary McDonald, Beecroft Addicted to policing It is time we moved the current situation regarding the use of drugs  legal and illegal  within our society from a jurisprudential issue to a community health matter, with the associated financial savings from police, court and jail activities being used to fund health and social support mechanisms (Lets stop pretending were shocked by drug takers, September 9). We should follow the Portuguese model of decriminalisation that has led to better community outcomes. Prohibition doesnt work. Stephen Dunn, Bonnells Bay Comment on comments

Here with some free speech concerning Thursdays leader, itself irrebuttable evidence that the art of special pleading is alive and well (Court judgment on social media posts a blow to free speech, September 9). As the High Courts majority made clear, there has really been no issue since 1928 concerning liability for defamatory joint publications, but you chose to report the Voller judgment as if it were only now that the Herald can be sued  for comments by readers. Such was always the case. The claim that news media, in publishing what it is pleased to call readers comments  they are, in the main, malicious, trivial and ill-informed assertions of fact, not adequately supported opinions  is encouraging fair discussion is surely disingenuous: are not its purposes a downmarket commercial gimmick and data gathering? The demand that governments should clarify these issues is baffling. What is unclear? A publisher is anyone who makes material public. Well-advised news media can and will simply drop the worthless readers comments add-on. One real benefit of the High Courts decision is that it puts social media and its users on final notice that the curse of vicious character assassination, so widespread on Facebook and the other sites  revenge porn is one egregious manifestation  opens them up to awards of significant damages as primary publishers. Potential litigants who were defamed by their impecunious enemies need not fear winning a Pyrrhic victory, but can with greater confidence look to Mark Zuckerbergs deep pockets. Stuart Littlemore, QC, Woollahra All in this together Letters saying our very human PM is entitled to a weekend with his family; or conversely that the optics are bad if he is caught sneaking away, miss the point (Letters, September 9). The reason we impose rules equally on all is to convince the privileged to help. If one is occupying a bubble, allowed to travel and isolate wherever, and getting the best vaccine ahead of your age cohort, then this 1 per cent are not motivated to help the other 99. Allan Kreuiter, Roseville

Steelers in the red Andrew Cronin says it irks him to watch players run around in the red V (Letters, September 9). As a St George fan since 1955 it irks me to watch players run around in the Steelers guernsey. True, the Steelers have produced some great players but since 1982 they have never won a senior premiership, not first, second or third grade, not an under-21, not an under-19 premiership. When the clubs merged, St George provided all the funds, the Illawarra Steelers contributed not one cent. Instead it ran up a debt of millions forcing St George to borrow the money from the NRL. Illawarra Steelers cannot manage a chook raffle. Chris Gilchrist, Margate (QLD) Thank you for the music From the way Jeff Apter tells it, making a comeback is rarely crowned with success (Will ABBAs revival be short and Swede?, September 9). Dame Nellie Melba, and even Johnny Farnham, made valiant attempts which kept their familiar faces before their adoring supporters. Those of us in the elderly category secretly hope that there is still some kind of future for us just around the corner. After all, why should Lazarus get all the credit? Derrick Mason, Boorowa Mask matters

In the clothing industry, some items are labelled One size fits all. Obviously, this is a myth. The garment fits the biggest person and everyone else has to manage. So it is with most of the readily available masks. If masks came in small, medium and large sizes we wouldnt need to knot and tuck or double up and, as a bonus when masked, wed be able to see where were going (Better masks key to keeping Delta out, September 8). Margaret Huxley, Waitara John Elder: Shave (Letters, September 9). Angus McLeod, Cremorne Delayed tonic I can cope with my curtains fading and the confused cows coming in for milking but I cant cope with having to wait the extra hour for my sundowner GnT (Letters, September 8).

Branco Gaica, Redfern The digital view
Pub owners and staff across Sydney are keen to return to work from next month but want more certainty around how any virus outbreaks will be managed.

Craig Laundy, whose family owns more than 30 pubs in Sydney and employ 2300 staff, said it was great news they could reopen to fully vaccinated patrons. He said hospitality venues would depend on the governments Service NSW app and QR code system to ensure patrons were vaccinated.

Charlie Laundy (left) with his father Craig Laundy in the Woolwich Pier Hotel. They are keen to reopen in October. Credit:Photo: Kate Geraghty

Mr Laundy said the grey area creating some uncertainty was how a venue would manage in case it received a patron infected with COVID-19.

If this is to be last lockdown, which I understand is governments desire, if we do have a case at a venue, is it just a situation where you close down, deep clean and open up again? Mr Laundy said.
Ive got some draft modelling [but] its still got a bit more to go. I know its very frustrating, youd love to be able to turn this around in 24 hours, but they need more data as well, Mr Andrews said. The tension comes as health experts said additional measures will be needed to curtail the spread of the virus in Melbournes northern and western suburbs. They warned speeding up vaccinations would no longer be enough to stop a projected surge in cases and hospitalisations. Of the 324 coronavirus cases reported on Thursday, 195 new infections were recorded in the citys northern suburbs and 102 in the western suburbs. Just five were detected in the eastern suburbs and 20 were reported in the south-eastern suburbs. The jump in new infections prompted epidemiologists and the states Australian Medical Association to call for incentives to keep people in hotspots in their homes and for essential workers in the north and western suburbs to have their vaccinations brought forward.

Loading The outbreaks in these areas are really verging on being out-of-control, Australian Medical Association Victorian president Roderick McRae said. Health Minister Martin Foley said the government had begun shifting vaccines from other parts of the state into the north and west. Mr Foley also urged the federal government to approve more GPs to provide vaccines in the area. He said there were a number of pop-ups for specific cultures and religions.

We know, however, that more has to be done. Acting Chief Health Officer Ben Cowie said the outbreaks in Melbournes north and west were worryingly similar to a fast-moving outbreak that had hit south-west Sydney. Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley on Thursday. Credit:Justin McManus He said the west and north had a higher proportion of essential workers who were unable to work from home, larger families and culturally and linguistically diverse communities who faced barriers to healthcare, contributing to virus transmission. On average, these suburbs also have more young families, including many people who have only recently become eligible to be vaccinated.

Household spread has been identified as major source of transmission of the virus. Senior government officials, including COVID-19 response commander Jeroen Weimar, have been meeting with multicultural and religious community leaders to encourage increased testing and vaccination. Head of Monash Universitys epidemiological modelling unit, James Trauer, said essential workers in the citys northern and western suburbs, including people working in supermarkets, should have their vaccinations fast-tracked. He said those who needed financial assistance should be offered incentives such as paid leave to stay home until they had at least received their first dose, giving them partial protection before returning to work. These parts of Melbourne are very unprotected in the critical transmitter age groups and I expect to see the cases really go up in the next couple of weeks, Professor Trauer said.

It is pretty scary because the cases are doubling so quickly at the moment, and its going to take us a few weeks before we get that protection from the vaccinations. Dr McRae said the state government should have vaccinated all essential workers five months ago. He called for a strict circuit breaker lockdown for seven days, including shutting down all essential services, except medical, to limit movement. This would not be a typical lockdown, it would be a freeze to minimise movement and reduce transmission, he said. What we have done so far is not working, and its not looking peachy.

Loading However, Deakin University chair of epidemiology Catherine Bennett said shutting supermarkets would only push people to shop in other suburbs, increasing the chances of the virus spreading further. She also said some households with eight to 10 family members needed several grocery shops a week. While she agreed a two-week circuit breaker was needed, Professor Bennett said the government must consider innovative incentives, such as paying for families to have their groceries delivered instead having to leave home to shop for food. Its about finding alternatives that wont be sustainable, but could work for the short term, she said.

Epidemiologist Nancy Baxter said there should be more pop-up clinics, mobile vaccination vans and immunisation blasts at mosques and other community centres. Community outreach and engaging community leaders is also important, said Professor Baxter, the head of the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health. There are groups that may feel targeted, alienated or may have challenges with the English language, so its about having communication that is tailored to specific communities. Asked if she agreed with the idea that the government should pay for food deliveries, she replied: every bit might work - its all about decreasing movement, especially with the Delta variant. Better masks might also work, as would rapid testing, particularly for essential workers. The surge in cases in the north and west comes as Mr Foley announced a clinical trial of a new medical device to swab children to test for COVID-19 at The Royal Childrens Hospital.

Loading The device, Rhinomed Junior, sits at the base of the nose and collects virus particles, and comes in different colours and designs to reduce anxiety for children. About 250 children will trial the device for six weeks. There are 111 COVID-19 patients in hospital in Victoria, none of which had been fully vaccinated. Mr Foley said 89 per cent of people in hospital have had no vaccine while 11 per cent had one dose. Thirty-two people are in intensive care while 19 people require a ventilator.
With locked-down Melbourne on edge, any news about the Morrison government unfairly prioritising NSW for vaccine supply was certain to light up group chats and lead news bulletins.

This was the case on Tuesday, when Premier Daniel Andrews delivered an acid-tongued rebuke of the Commonwealth for what he called secret  under the table deals to provide more Pfizer vials to NSW, which is now weeks ahead of Victoria in its rollout. His office later demanded 340,000 Pfizer doses to make up Victorias shortfall.

While Premier Daniel Andrews was right to say Victoria had received fewer Pfizer doses in recent months, his claim of a secret deal does not stack up. Credit:Chris Hopkins

I did not sign up, and no Victorians signed up, to a national plan to vaccinate Sydney, he said.

Some dont like to see this as a race, but a race it surely is. What I didnt know was that Premier Berejiklian is in a sprint while the rest of us are supposed to do some sort of egg-and-spoon thing. No, we want our fair share.
Year 12 student Rachael Jenkins lives in Tynong, a small town in west Gippsland perhaps most famous for supplying the granite from which Melbournes Shrine of Remembrance was built.

The shrines St Kilda Road address is more than 70 kilometres from Rachaels country home, but still close enough for public health orders to forbid her joining her regional classmates on-site for the rest of term three.

Year 12 student Racheal Jenkins with her mother Rebekah. Credit:Eddie Jim

Regional schools across Victoria will welcome back students in years prep to 2 and year 12 on Friday, but Tynong happens to be in Cardinia Shire, on Melbournes south-eastern periphery, which is part of Greater Melbourne.

Many of Rachaels classmates at Drouin Secondary College live outside Cardinia Shire  in regional Victoria  and will be able, for the first time in three weeks, to head to physical school on Friday. By contrast, Rachael will log on and continue to study remotely for at least the rest of term three.
Australia was unable to get more vaccine doses from Pfizer early in the coronavirus pandemic because the pharmaceutical giant was focused on Europe and the United States, the Prime Minister said as Labor accused the government of squandering the chance to secure extra stock.

Scott Morrison said the government made every effort that we could to obtain as many vaccine doses as possible and continued to do so, but Pfizer was always going to favour countries with higher case numbers and deaths at the end of last year.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison: There are a lot of heroes of hindsight at the moment out there. My government is focusing on the future. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

It was very clear from those discussions that the focus was not on Australia, the focus was on where people were dying in their thousands, tens of thousands, in the northern hemisphere, he said on Thursday.

What was necessary was for us to establish our own sovereign vaccine manufacturing capability, which we did. And that has been an important and significant part of our vaccination program, and that has kept thousands, if not millions, of Australians safe from the virus.
When Scott Morrisons office heard the media were going to report on the Prime Ministers flight to Sydney last weekend to see his family on Fathers Day, the first reaction was that the trip did not deserve to be reported at all.

This was private business and nothing unusual, according to the Prime Ministers advisers. They were filthy with Labor for noticing the return trip on the Royal Australian Air Force business jet, a Dassault Falcon 7X, and asking questions about the flying visit.

Watch for cover-ups: the Prime Minister was entitled to his Sydney trip, but his reluctance to disclose it is part of a bigger problem with his government. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The idea that Australians might want to know what the Prime Minister was doing, on flights funded by taxpayers, was dismissed from the start. It was another sign of Morrisons incredible reluctance to accept scrutiny as part of the job.

That is why the argument about the flying visit, which was entirely within the rules, rings more alarms about the creeping secrecy throughout the federal government. Whether the government is spending $88 billion on JobKeeper or negotiating vaccine deals with Pfizer, it recoils from scrutiny.
Almost one in five jobs across parts of western Sydney has disappeared since lockdowns were put in place, with business leaders urging a rapid re-opening of the economy once 80 per cent of the adult population is vaccinated.

In a sign of the hit to households across the country caused by the string of lockdowns affecting 15 million Australians, the number of people on payrolls fell by 0.7 per cent in the fortnight to August 14.

Every region of NSW, including Wollongong, suffered a fall in the number of people on company payrolls through the first half of August. Credit:Wolter Peeters

The Australian Bureau of Statistics said NSW bore the brunt of the impact, with the number of people on payrolls falling by 1.2 per cent in the fortnight and by 5 per cent since the middle of July.

Every part of NSW has suffered a fall in the number of jobs on company payrolls since the start of lockdowns from mid-May.
West Australian Premier Mark McGowan may seem like an unlikely political role model for the Victorian Liberal Partys new leader Matthew Guy, but his path to Premier  after suffering a crushing defeat  is one Guy hopes to emulate.

More than just Premier, McGowan is somewhat of a doyen of the Labor Party after guiding his party to one of the countrys biggest ever election wins in March, obliterating the Liberal Party to just two seats.

WA Premier Mark McGowan. Credit:Hamish Hastie

But it wasnt an easy journey.

McGowan, who was elected leader of the Labor Party in January 2012, initially led Labor to a crushing defeat in 2013, after which pundits wrongly predicted Labor would require a two-term strategy to return to government. Given that timeline, McGowan looked unlikely to survive.
Billionaire and former Walmart president Marc Lore helped outline a plan for a $US400 billion ($543 billion) metropolis, tabbed the new city in America, to be built in the desert if properly funded.

Lores mission statement for the city of Telosa is to create a more equitable and sustainable future that can become a blueprint of future generations. Thats backed by a 150,000-acre design proposal with eco-friendly architecture, sustainable energy production, and a drought-resistant water system.

The ambitious goal is to welcome residents by 2030, with a goal of eventually having a population of 5 million people. Credit:Bjarke Ingels Group and Bucharest Studio

A focal point of the city, set to house around 5 million, will be its transportation  with Telosas streets prioritising bikes and pedestrians, as well as slow-moving autonomous cars  over fossil fuel-dependent vehicles elsewhere. The official website for Telosa cites that 1 billion people will be affected by climate change in 2050. That figure falls in line with a United Nations climate change report in August dubbed a code red for humanity, noting that Earth could reach 1.5C by 2040.

Its unclear what American desert is being targeted for the project. Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Texas and the Appalachian region are all options, per the citys official website.
Samsung Australia has taken more pre-orders for this years folding phones than it sold foldable handsets in the whole of 2020, as the industry nears an inflection point of mainstream adoption for the new form factor.

The Galaxy Z Fold3 and Flip3 have, according to Samsung, addressed a number of shortcomings of previous models, including high price, low availability, lack of waterproofing and fragile screens.

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3 are on sale this week. Credit:

And while the pandemic has seen a surge in popularity for the companys budget offerings in developing markets, Samsung Australias vice president of mobile Garry McGregor said premium was still king down under, where the majority of devices are financed through telcos.

What the pandemic has done, is it has forced Australians to re-evaluate their relationship with technology and how they use it. [Without retail stores or face-to-face interactions], theyve trusted what theyve read and what theyve seen on websites, and theyve decided its time to change, he said, adding that having one device with adjustable size was also increasingly appealing.
Kabul: Some 200 foreigners left Afghanistan on a commercial flight out of Kabul on Thursday, the first such large-scale departure since US and other forces completed their frantic withdrawal more than a week ago.

The Qatar Airways flight to Doha marked a breakthrough in the bumpy co-ordination between the US and Afghanistans new Taliban rulers. A days-long standoff over charter planes at another airport has left dozens of passengers stranded.

Passengers board a Qatar Airways plane at Kabul airport on Thursday. Credit:AP

A senior US official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorised to talk to the media, provided the number of Westerners on the Qatar flight and said two senior Taliban officials helped facilitate the departure  the new foreign minister and deputy prime minister.

Americans, US green card holders and other nationalities, including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians, were aboard, the official said.
Beijing: Hong Kong police raided a museum dedicated to the Tiananmen Square massacre on Thursday, confiscating photographs and displays.

As the public looked on, officers hauled out boxes of objects relating to June 4, 1989, when the Chinese military killed thousands of peaceful students.vigil

Police officers take away the cutout of the late former Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang from the June 4th Museum in Hong Kong. Credit:AP

A map locating the deaths, along with a cardboard cutout of Chairman Mao, were among the items bundled into a removal van outside.

China has long sought to erase memories of Tiananmen Square, though Hong Kong was the one part of the country where people were allowed to discuss it. The city held mass candlelit vigils for the victims every year.
Its completely wrong that they dont think about us. Were half of this society. They have to consider us, said Mariam Shafaii, a 19-year-old student. Women gather to demand their rights under the Taliban rule during a protest in Kabul on Friday Credit:AP The Taliban signalled it was losing patience with demonstrations: For the past few days, a number of people in Kabul and other provinces have taken to the streets in the name of demonstrations, disrupting security, harassing people and disrupting normal life, the Interior Ministry said in a statement. All citizens are informed that for the time being, they are not [to try] to hold demonstrations under any name or title. Shafaii was not deterred. We will not keep quiet, she said. In another sobering turn, the Taliban has reinstituted a ministry for the promotion of virtue and prevention of vice, which was notorious during the groups 1996-2001 rule for its brutal enforcement of the Talibans ultraconservative brand of Islam. The ministry presided over the amputation of thieves hands and the stoning deaths of women found guilty of adultery.

The Taliban were at a crossroads: choose a path that would mollify the international community ... by being more open and inclusive, or they could have taken the easy path of appeasing their own rank-and-file and going back to what had worked for them in the 1990s, said Ibraheem Bahiss, an Afghanistan consultant with the International Crisis Group. They very much chose the latter. That choice was met with opprobrium, with many nations expressing their disapproval of a government made exclusively of Taliban. The government certainly does not meet the test of inclusivity, said US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken in a press conference from Germanys Ramstein Base on Wednesday. Were also concerned by the affiliations and track records of some of those individuals. Roughly half of the cabinets members are under US or UN sanctions. The acting minister of the interior, Sirajuldin Haqqani, is wanted by the FBI, which placed a $US5 million bounty on him. Blinken, however, said he would wait for actions to finally assess the government and determine its legitimacy and the future of US-Afghan relations. On Wednesday, after 45 minutes of walking, the protesters in Kabul came upon a parked Humvee. Four Taliban fighters moved to push the women back. Despite the AK-47s they carried, the women swarmed towards them, shouting and arguing at the leader until he relented and allowed them to continue.

But other fighters near the Karte Char police station, close to the centre of Kabul, were less tolerant. There, another group of demonstrators shouted and toted signs before bewildered Taliban members, many of them young men from rural areas, where little of the Wests campaign for female equality has trickled down over the last 20 years. Loading When two Los Angeles Times journalists approached, the fighters broke away from the protest and surrounded them, lunging for one of the journalists cameras. They then shoved them towards the police station, where a number of local journalists had already been detained. Its not allowed to photograph these protests, one of the Taliban leaders said after examining a media permit. They are illegal, and you must delete any photos taken there. Another, younger Taliban fighter with kohl-lined eyes said it was forbidden to photograph women.

Why are you doing this? This is against Islam, he said. Meanwhile, five journalists from Etilaat Roz, a local newspaper, remained inside the station; two of them had been arrested earlier, at the start of the protest. When an editor and two other Etilaat journalists came to the station to try to persuade the Taliban to release their colleague, they, too, were detained. Also taken into custody was a local producer with Euronews. The Euronews producer was repeatedly slapped in the face by three of the Taliban members there, who took his phone and wallet, a colleague said. Both were returned when he was released, and he was otherwise unhurt. The Etilaat reporters first arrested, video journalist Nemat Naqdi, 28, and 22-year-old video editor Taqi Daryabi, were spotted by the Taliban and told they didnt have permission to film. They grabbed Daryabi and dragged him into the station; Naqdi managed to move away. They didnt let me resist, Daryabi said. He said he was shoved to the ground, tortured and beaten unconscious. He was taken to a yard and some water was poured on him. He was still there when they brought Naqdi.

We were shouting that we are journalists. But they didnt care, Naqdi said. I thought they were going to kill me ... They kept on ridiculing us, asking if we were filming them. When the two journalists were finally told to leave, they couldnt find their shoes. Their phones were eventually given back to them, but not Naqdis glasses. He said he could barely walk to the car. A video released later of Daryabi shows him unable to walk unaided, limping as he is supported by two of his colleagues. Loading Pressure against the Taliban is rising on other fronts as well, notably in Panjshir, a province long locked in battle with the group. The Taliban announced its takeover of the province earlier this week. But National Resistance Front, or NRF, a grouping of anti-Taliban figures including Ahmad Massoud, son of the legendary Northern Alliance guerilla leader, said they were still fighting. Ghani, the deposed president who fled the country when the Taliban reached Kabul, issued a statement from his exile in the Emirates on Wednesday saying that leaving the capital was the most difficult decision of my life. But he said he believed it was the only way to save the city and that he had no intention of abandoning the Afghan people.
Weeks into the pandemic, Soren Brostrom gained international prominence for discussing a topic few health officials dared to broach: casual sex and COVID.

Brostrom, who heads the Danish Health Authority, had no qualms telling the media that singles neednt be celibate  he outlined the risks without discouraging intimacy, which he said was natural. The former gynaecologists pragmatism has helped his agency maintain an enviable level of public support even while navigating tough decisions, like breaking with other nations to halt the rollout of the AstraZeneca vaccine in March.

Denmarks Director of the National Board of Health Soren Brostrom during a press briefing on vaccines. Credit:AP

Denmark is now enjoying the fruits of that trust: the highest vaccination coverage in the European Union after Malta, which is enabling the phase-out of COVID restrictions while maintaining a low disease burden.

Brostrom continues to embrace clear and direct communication as he prepares for a potential surge in cases in the northern winter. To improve vaccination uptake in Copenhagens Islamic community, for instance, he took his message to three mosques.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Wednesday, September 8th, Member of Parliament and leader of the USP (United St. Maarten Party) faction in parliament, MP Claudius Buncamper sent a letter to Prime Minister Silveria Jacobs and the Council of Ministers (COM), regarding the GEBE water management contract and the fuel clause. Because of the urgency in this matter and seeing that the questions posed by MP Buncamper cover various ministries, the MP decided to submit his questions to the Council of Ministers as a collective body. MP Buncamper said in his letter that he posed several questions to the Minister of VROMI during the last budget debate, regarding the water management and the fuel clause, which have to this day not been answered. The serious costs issues plaguing schools, foundations, businesses, citizens, and particularly our seniors' citizens have amplified the need to repeat these questions. The MP noted that the fuel clause has increased by 38% between November 2020 and July 2021, which significantly impacts the country. Seeing that the water management contract does not necessarily entail the setting of pricing for the sales of water or the fuel clause, I have decided to address this matter directly to the Council of Ministers (COM) MP Buncamper stated in his letter and submitted the following questions to the council.

When was the last contract signed and what is the yearly management fee for NV GEBE to manage the contract on behalf of the government? How much water is produced and sold yearly and what is the separate income for commercial and residential consumption? In his letter, the MP also queried the yearly income for government from the sale of water over the past 5 years? Who covers the yearly 25% water loss and the monetary value thereof? How much is the yearly maintenance expense for the management of the water contract? MP Buncamper questioned if the maintenance expenses are reviewed and approved by the government? Or if it is a carte blanche that allows GEBEs management to invest as they see fit? The MP also enquired who approves the yearly capital investment expenses for the water management contract and if the procurements procedures are in line with government regulations? Buncamper went on to question who signed the current water purchase contract and the duration of the contract. He inquired about the quantity of the daily water production and the cost per metric ton. What happens to the excess produced water, if any? Have we offered the French Side to purchase any excess produced water? The MP wants to know if there is a clause in the management contract that states that once the minimum production mark is passed, the water price drops significantly and if we are currently benefitting from that lower price. The MP also enquired about the take or pay clause and what that clause entails. He also questioned who the owners of the water production plant are and their ages.

The MP concluded that government schools, the various subsidized government entities, and foundations are being charged a commercial water rate of Naf 20,36 per metric ton, based on a Naf 8,- per metric ton sales rate and a Naf 12,528866 fuel clause rate per metric ton. This and the already tightened budget of various schools and foundations have caused the MP to submit the following questions to the COM. Who determined that the public schools, government-subsidized entities, and foundations must be charged commercial rates, and based on what criteria? Can government intervene to have the residential rates, or a flat government rate lower than the residential rate, applied to government schools and subsidized entities? MP Buncamper also queried as to how the fuel clause rate is calculated for the water production and what factors influence the fuel clause? Can the cost of the water production be explained seeing that GEBE pays the water producing company Seven Seas an amount of US$ 1,19 per metric ton for the minimum contract amount and an amount of around 30% lower for more water?
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, September 07, 2021, the Alpha Team arrested two men with the initials D.W. (65), G.M.C. (45) for their involvement in attempting to smuggle a small quantity of drugs into Sint Maarten, which occurred earlier in the week at the A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility. A third person was later apprehended in connection with this related investigation.

All three suspects were brought to the police station in Phillipsburg where they remain in custody pending further investigation.

This investigation was triggered by a small consignment of narcotics intercepted by customs a few days earlier. The consignment of drugs was confiscated in the interest of the investigation.

On the following day Wednesday, September 08, 2021, the Alpha Team again arrested two men with the initials R.S. (44), I.S.S. (24) for their involvement in a drug-smuggling offense that took place at the A.C. Wathey Cruise Facility.

They were taken to the police station in Philipsburg where they were held pending further investigation. A small amount of narcotics was also intercepted and confiscated by the Customs personnel.

The Alpha Team is a joint multidisciplinary team consisting of the Police KPSM, Customs, Immigration, Royal Military Police, and Coast Guard.

KPSM Press Release.
Susie Rogers, 77, of Somerset, passed away on Monday, September 13, 2021 at her residence. Arrangements are pending and will be announced later by Morris & Hislope Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family at: www.morrisandhislope.com.
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Community reflects 20 years after the 9/11 terror attacks

The Minnesota River Valley and New York City are separated by over 1,000 miles, but at 7:46 a.m. on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, the island of Manhattan suddenly felt close to home.

Then Le Center residents Larry and Adriana Tuma were driving over the bridge to Chaska for a doctors appointment when they heard the news over the radio. A Boeing 767 on flight to Los Angeles was hijacked by terrorists and rammed into the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Just 17 minutes later, hijackers crashed a second flight into the South Tower.

In Washington D.C., 189 people were killed in a third plane crash that breached the western wall of the Pentagon. A fourth plane crashed in a field in Stonycreek Township, Pennsylvania after passengers sacrificed their lives to subdue the hijackers en route to the United States Capitol building.

The buildings fell apart. Between the passengers on the planes, the dead near the Pentagon and the thousands killed in the collapse of the Twin Towers, 2,996 people were killed on that infamous morning.

People run from the collapse of World Trade Center Tower Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001 in New York. (AP)

The Tumas pulled to the side of the road as the world halted. As people everywhere watched fire and smoke billow from the Twin Towers, the Tumas dipped their heads in prayer.

Answering the call

Confusion, fear and anger permeated through the American consciousness, but so did a desire for unity and a need to inspire hope. As they sat on the side of the road with their hands clasped and news coverage blaring from the stereo, the Tumas felt a calling to help.

In the days after the attacks, the couple reached out to the Le Sueur and Le Center school districts, hoping to deliver student letters to the children of New York City. First and second graders of Park and Le Center elementaries filled up a bags worth of letters, and the Tumas set off on Sept. 20 to JFK Airport in NYC.

With support from the Le Center Fire Department, Le Sueur United Methodist Church, St. Pauls Evangelical Church and the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU), they arrived at Midtown West School in Manhattan and handed out the local letters personally.

I remember the faces of the children in the New York City, said Adriana Tuma. There was so much hope from the letters, and they were smiling. It meant so much that we can pull at someones heart that is suffering.

Then Le Center residents Larry and Adriana Tuma were featured in the Le Center Leader for delivering letters to the children of New York and a $1,000 donation from the Le Center Fire Department to Engine Company 65. (Le Center Leader archives)

In the classroom, they shared a message of unity, encouraging students to practice love for their neighbors regardless of religion, race or nationality. They also spread that message at the Interfaith Prayer Breakfast and Rally held in New York in the wake of the attacks.

We belong to the unification movement, which was founded by a Reverend from Korea and their message was to break down the barriers between religions, said Tuma. We made contact with numerous ministers in New York City for an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast .We talked about starting to act more as a family, being more inclusive than exclusive. We had approached the children knowing they were the future.

As ambassadors of the Le Sueur and Le Center area, the Tumas also met with a Lieutenant from Engine Company 65 to deliver a $1,000 donation from the Le Center Fire Department. The department had been working 24 hours a day since the attack and had lost one member.

The final stop of the trip was Ground Zero. A little more than a week after the attack, members of different faiths came to the site where the Twin Towers once stood and prayed.

It was hopeful because of the message that we were delivering and the response that we received, said Larry Tuma. It was a melting pot of all different races, nationalities and religions. They were very receptive to the message of forgiveness.

Local support

It wasnt just the Tumas who sought to help. Community members throughout the region contributed what they could to bring people together after the devastation.

At Cleveland Elementary, third and fourth graders wrote sympathy cards to the schools of two elementary students and two teachers that were killed aboard the plane that crashed into the Pentagon. The cards allowed children to process their grief and help Washington DC families feel better.

In a 2001 edition of the Le Center Leader, then Cleveland third grader Ali Jacobson wrote We would like to tell you even if we dont know you, we can still be friends. We are sure you will still be okay. she also shared a story about how she handled the death of their dog, writing My mom told me maybe Im sad and Im crying because Im happy for my dog to be in heaven. She will have a happier, better life. I hope you figure out that you feel the same way.

Even local emergency services assisted the grieving city. On Sept. 24, then Le Center and Montgomery Police Officer Dan Sherburn organized a trip with Le Center officer Nathan Hintz, now the Montgomery Chief of Police, Le Center and Cleveland officer Steve Johnson and former officer Mark Pearson.

With the help of community donations totaling $3,000, the officers spent some of their own vacation days at Ground Zero collecting evidence. Everything from plane parts to personal belongings to body parts were located and logged by the Crime Scene Unit (CSU) and Evidence Collection Team. (ECT)

Le Center police officers Dan Sherburn, Nathan Hintz, Steve Johnson and Mark Pearson were photographed 20 years ago helping with evidence gathering at Ground Zero in New York City after the 9/11 attacks. (Le Center Leader archives)

Others responded by sending postcards, donating to the Salvation Army, dropping off donations to the Red Cross and giving blood. By Sept 26, the Mankato Red Cross received 765 units of blood in the wake of the attacks.

Coping at home

While there was plenty of work to be done in New York, there was also work to be done at home. The region was left reeling after the Sept. 11 attacks, an act of terrorism once thought unthinkable.

Ed Lee, then editor of the St. Peter Herald recalled feeling disbelief when he heard the news. At first, Lee assumed it was an accident like the 1945 Empire State Building plane crash. It wasnt until the second plane hit the South Tower that the idea of a terrorist attack on U.S. soil became real.

Carson Hughes / By CARSON HUGHES carson.hughes@apgsomn.com The Sept. 13 2001 edition of the St. Peter Herald documents the community response to the September 11th terror attacks. (Carson Hughes/southernminn.com)

The next paper was to be published in just two days, and the whole front page was cleared to document local reactions to the attacks. Pulling from their experience covering the 1998 tornado, the newsroom acted fast to connect St. Peter to the events in New York City.

Almost immediately we started brainstorming ideas, so we just made a list of everybody we could talk to, said Lee. We talked with a college student, [Jay] Sutton, in New York and learned pretty quickly he could see the smoke from his window, so we wanted to talk to him. We wanted to talk to somebody from Gustavus who knew something about terrorism and psychology and what this means.

In St. Peter, the Church of St. Peter and Gustavus Adolphus College held citywide prayer services. Flags on all governmental buildings were set to half mast on the orders of Governor Jesse Ventura. Local schools grappled with how to walk students through this tragic event.

At high schools in St. Peter, Le Sueur, Le Center and Cleveland, students watched the news coverage of the attacks and teachers opened up their classes to discuss what happened. Counselors also aided students in processing their reactions.

Elementary schools grappled with how to address the death and destruction without frightening young ears. At John Ireland School in St. Peter, the school went into increased lockdown, while teachers and administrators kept the news under wraps as best they could. At Le Center Elementary, students did not witness the news coverage, but were read a statement about what was happening before they went home. The school also asked parents to process the events with their children.

Ali Jacobson, a Cleveland student at the time, colors the Twin Towers and an American Flag on the card she sent to the victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on America. The front said We Love America. (Le Center Leader archives)

When you go home today you are going to be hearing about a very sad thing that has happened to our country, read the statement. Some planes have crashed into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Many people have been injured or have died  Please remember that we are safe here in Le Center. There are many people here to talk to you about this. If you come to school tomorrow and need to talk with someone please tell your teacher and he or she will be sure you have someone to talk with.

Adriana Tuma, then a Hispanic Outreach Coordinator for the Le Sueur school district recalled that many students were rattled by the attacks.

Many of them were in shock, said Tuma. There were many questions like Are we going to be in a war? or Are we going to be attacked? I just couldnt answer because we didnt know what was going to happen.

Security

Communities were also on high alert, and local governments and schools were prompted to think about how they could increase security at home.

People were wondering about Minneapolis  Is Minneapolis a target? We thought it was going to be hijacked airplanes everywhere, said Lee. That fear brought the nation together in ways that I have never seen in my lifetime  the nationalism and the national pride. Everyone was clinging to faith together.

Fears of terrorism at home spiked on Sept. 20, 2001, when a caller claimed to the Le Sueur County Courthouse that there was a bomb in the building. Staff immediately evacuated the building, but after a full search by the Sheriffs Office, nothing was found.

The incident led county commissioners to call a special meeting on Sept. 21 to have a caller ID system installed in the government building and Sheriffs Office at no cost.

A nation changed

The world has changed dramatically since Sept. 11, 2001. Less than a month after the attack by Al Qaeda, the United States entered a 20-year war in Afghanistan after the Taliban refused to extradite Osama bin Laden, who directed the hijackers. Americas longest war, the conflict came to an end on Aug. 30 this year.

Security became a priority in travel, technology and communications. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) changed the way we fly with full body scanners, new requirements to remove electronics and shoes before screening and mandatory checking of passengers photo IDs and tickets.

The FBI and NSA were granted new abilities to share data and eavesdrop on private communications while the Department of Homeland Security was established to combat terrorism, enforce border security, cyber security, and disaster prevention.

Though two decades have passed, the memory of the Sept. 11 terror has left an imprint on those old enough to remember. According to the Pew Research Center, 93% of Americans 30 and older remember exactly where they were on 9/11.

Community members all took lessons from the days, weeks and months that followed. Lee vowed to always remember the day like it was yesterday and found a renewed appreciation for the United States military.

Since then, Ive never missed a Memorial Day ceremony in the park, said Lee. Even in 2020, I was in the park. I wont miss those programs.

The Tumas found hope in the unity shared after the Sept. 11 attacks, but looking back, they expressed regret that the nation appeared to have forgotten that sense of togetherness.

Its like high noon, where theres no shadows and people have forgotten about what happened, said Larry Tuma. The world is divided among people of different groups and races, and people thrive on the division. Its like people forgot about what we experienced after being attacked.
Ask for a roast beef sandwich at an Arbys drive-thru east of Los Angeles and you may be talking to Tori  an artificially intelligent voice assistant that will take your order and send it to the line cooks.

It doesnt call sick, says Amir Siddiqi, whose family installed the AI voice at its Arbys franchise this year in Ontario, California. It doesnt get corona. And the reliability of it is great.

The pandemic didnt just threaten Americans health when it slammed the U.S. in 2020 -- it may also have posed a long-term threat to many of their jobs. Faced with worker shortages and higher labor costs, companies are starting to automate service sector jobs that economists once considered safe, assuming that machines couldnt easily provide the human contact they believed customers would demand.

Past experience suggests that such automation waves eventually create more jobs than they destroy, but that they also disproportionately wipe out less skilled jobs that many low-income workers depend on. Resulting growing pains for the U.S. economy could be severe.

If not for the pandemic, Siddiqi probably wouldnt have bothered investing in new technology that could alienate existing employees and some customers. But its gone smoothly, he says: Basically, theres less people needed but those folks are now working in the kitchen and other areas."

Ideally, automation can redeploy workers into better and more interesting work, so long as they can get the appropriate technical training, says Johannes Moenius, an economist at the University of Redlands. But although that's happening now, its not moving quickly enough, he says.

Worse, an entire class of service jobs created when manufacturing began to deploy more automation may now be at risk. The robots escaped the manufacturing sector and went into the much larger service sector, he says. I regarded contact jobs as safe. I was completely taken by surprise.

Improvements in robot technology allow machines to do many tasks that previously required people -- tossing pizza dough, transporting hospital linens, inspecting gauges, sorting goods. The pandemic accelerated their adoption. Robots, after all, cant get sick or spread disease. Nor do they request time off to handle unexpected childcare emergencies.

Economists at the International Monetary Fund found that past pandemics had encouraged firms to invest in machines in ways that could boost productivity -- but also kill low-skill jobs. Our results suggest that the concerns about the rise of the robots amid the COVID-19 pandemic seem justified, they wrote in a January paper.

The consequences could fall most heavily on the less-educated women who disproportionately occupy the low- and mid-wage jobs most exposed to automation -- and to viral infections. Those jobs include salesclerks, administrative assistants, cashiers and aides in hospitals and those who take care of the sick and elderly.

Employers seem eager to bring on the machines. A survey last year by the nonprofit World Economic Forum found that 43% of companies planned to reduce their workforce as a result of new technology. Since the second quarter of 2020, business investment in equipment has grown 26%, more than twice as fast as the overall economy.

The fastest growth is expected in the roving machines that clean the floors of supermarkets, hospitals and warehouses, according to the International Federation of Robotics, a trade group. The same group also expects an uptick in sales of robots that provide shoppers with information or deliver room service orders in hotels.

Restaurants have been among the most visible robot adopters. In late August, for instance, the salad chain Sweetgreen announced it was buying kitchen robotics startup Spyce, which makes a machine that cooks up vegetables and grains and spouts them into bowls.

Its not just robots, either -- software and AI-powered services are on the rise as well. Starbucks has been automating the behind-the-scenes work of keeping track of a stores inventory. More stores have moved to self-checkout.

Scott Lawton, CEO of the Arlington, Virginia-based restaurant chain Bartaco, was having trouble last fall getting servers to return to his restaurants when they reopened during the pandemic.

So he decided to do without them. With the help of a software firm, his company developed an online ordering and payment system customers could use over their phones. Diners now simply scan a barcode at the center of each table to access a menu and order their food without waiting for a server. Workers bring food and drinks to their tables. And when theyre done eating, customers pay over their phones and leave.

The innovation has shaved the number of staff, but workers arent necessarily worse off. Each Bartaco location  there are 21  now has up to eight assistant managers, roughly double the pre-pandemic total. Many are former servers, and they roam among the tables to make sure everyone has what they need. They are paid annual salaries starting at $55,000 rather than hourly wages.

Tips are now shared among all the other employees, including dishwashers, who now typically earn $20 an hour or more, far higher than their pre-pandemic pay. We dont have the labor shortages that youre reading about on the news, Lawton says.

The uptick in automation has not stalled a stunning rebound in the U.S. jobs market -- at least so far.

The U.S. economy lost a staggering 22.4 million jobs in March and April 2020, when the pandemic gale hit the U.S. Hiring has since bounced back briskly: Employers have brought back 17 million jobs since April 2020. In June, they posted a record 10.1 million job openings and are complaining that they cant find enough workers.

Behind the hiring boom is a surge in spending by consumers, many of whom got through the crisis in unexpectedly good shape financially -- thanks to both federal relief checks and, in many cases, savings accumulated by working from home and skipping the daily commute.

Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moodys Analytics, expects employers are likely to be scrambling for workers for a long time.

For one thing, many Americans are taking their time returning to work -- some because theyre still worried about COVID-19 health risks and childcare problems, others because of generous federal unemployment benefits, set to expire nationwide Sept. 6.

In addition, large numbers of Baby Boom workers are retiring. The labor market is going to be very, very tight for the foreseeable future, Zandi says.

For now, the short-term benefits of the economic snapback are overwhelming any job losses from automation, whose effects tend to show up gradually over a period of years. That may not last. Last year, researchers at the University of Zurich and University of British Columbia found that the so-called jobless recoveries of the past 35 years, in which economic output rebounded from recessions faster than employment, could be explained by the loss of jobs vulnerable to automation.

Despite strong hiring since the middle of last year, the U.S. economy is still 5.3 million jobs short of what it had in February 2020. And Lydia Boussour, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics, calculated last month that 40% of the missing jobs are vulnerable to automation, especially those in food preparation, retail sales and manufacturing.

Some economists worry that automation pushes workers into lower-paid positions. Daron Acemoglu, an economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Pascual Restrepo of Boston University estimated in June that up to 70% of the stagnation in U.S. wages between 1980 and 2016 could be explained by machines replacing humans doing routine tasks.

Many of the jobs that get automated were at the middle of the skill distribution, Acemoglu says. They dont exist anymore, and the workers that used to perform them are now doing lower-skill jobs.

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AP Economics Writer Christopher Rugaber contributed to this story.
MIDDLETOWN  Kristin Souza had thought about opening a store focused on CBD products for a while, but it wasnt until she was laid off twice from her insurance job during the pandemic that she decided to take the plunge.

At Sugar Leaf, 109 Court St., customers can purchase CBD products, learn about cannabis, purchase glass pipes and other gift shop items, such as soap and candles.

Every product is related to cannabis and many are from women-owned or operated businesses and vendors.

Sugar Leaf is a family venture  Souzas husband, a glass blower, creates products for a display case. Her father, who died in 2011, was a major inspiration for opening the venture.

Her emphasis on women was intentional, Souza said, since she believes women and mothers are especially uncomfortable talking about cannabis due to the stigma.

Souza believes people are now more open to talking about the topic since Connecticut legalized recreational cannabis in July.

Its not a smoke shop, Souza said. Sometimes, theres an aesthetic when you go to a smoke shop. Youre not going to find tie-dye or Cheech & Chong posters. Its a feminine aesthetic.

Sugar Leafs walls are painted in earth tones and products are laid on wooden tables made by Souzas friend.

While working on creating the business, her father was foremost on her mind. He had Stage 4 lung cancer, Souza said. It was terminal, and it was 2011, there was no CBD. I had him in my head as I was thinking.

Once she began working on the business, everything happened fast. She knew she wanted to be in downtown Middletown, and by May, she signed a lease.

Something that did not come together quickly was her inventory and fixtures for her store. Her supplies came in, but shes since learned from other business owners than she needs to order ahead. Now, Souza said, shes already thinking about holiday orders.

Some of the fixtures she ordered have been delayed, Souza said. Thats when she went to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Cromwell, a retail store that accepts donations of new and gently used items that are sold at a reduced cost. It was a blessing, Souza said, which enabled her to create a unique store instead of using fixtures from big-box retailers.

The reception has been good, people are wandering in, and word of mouth has picked up, Souza said. Her top sellers so far are a CBD topical cream, CBD gummies and CBD drops.

Souza is also a justice of the peace and hopes to offer that feature as part of her business. In recent years, people have been incorporating cannabis into their weddings. One example is a bud bar, which is similar to a traditional bar, except people receive cannabis and can smoke at the event.

Besides serving as an officiant, Souza can offer consulting services for weddings.

Sugar Leaf is also offering private events, which Souza labeled Puff, Pass and Pot Some Succulents, a succulent potting party with a cannabis twist.

Participants receive a 4-inch ceramic planter, three succulents and other items needed to create their own designs. Fresh treats from local eateries will be available.

The event is BYOC, or bring your own cannabis, which is modeled after wine and paint parties. Participants must be 21 or over to attend.

The only time people can smoke in the shop is during a private event because of the Clean Indoor Air Act, which regulates where smoking can occur.

People need to know venues they can smoke at, and cannabis-friendly vendors, Souza said.

Sugar Leaf is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information, visit sugarleafct.com or 860-894-2908.

christine.derosa@hearstmediact.com
3 1 of 3 Michael Cummo / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Michael Cummo / Hearst Connecticut Media Show More Show Less 3 of 3





STAMFORD  City police will hold a ceremony to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, outside of their headquarters Saturday morning.

Deputy Chief Silas Redd said the Stamford Police Departments ceremony will be held beneath the American flag on the departments front lawn.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The summer that was supposed to mark Americas independence from COVID-19 is instead drawing to a close with the U.S. more firmly under the tyranny of the virus, with deaths per day back up to where they were in March.

The delta variant is filling hospitals, sickening alarming numbers of children and driving coronavirus deaths in some places to the highest levels of the entire pandemic. School systems that reopened their classrooms are abruptly switching back to remote learning because of outbreaks. Legal disputes, threats and violence have erupted over mask and vaccine requirements.

The U.S. death toll stands at more than 650,000, with one major forecast model projecting it will top 750,000 by Dec. 1.

It felt like we had this forward, positive momentum, lamented Katie Button, executive chef and CEO at two restaurants in Asheville, North Carolina. The delta variant wiped that timeline completely away.

It wasn't supposed to be this way. More than six months into the U.S. vaccination drive, President Joe Biden held a White House party on July Fourth to celebrate the countrys freedom from the virus, and other political leaders had high hopes for a close-to-normal summer.

Then the bottom fell out.

The summer wave was fueled by the extra-contagious delta variant combined with stark resistance to vaccinations that formed along political and geographic lines, said Dr. Sten Vermund, of the Yale School of Public Health.

The virus was more efficient in spreading among the unvaccinated so that you blunted the expected benefit of vaccines, Vermund said.

The crisis escalated rapidly from June to August. About 400,000 COVID-19 infections were recorded for all of June. It took all of three days last week to reach the same number.

The U.S. recorded 26,800 deaths and more than 4.2 million infections in August. The number of monthly positive cases was the fourth-highest total since the start of the pandemic.

The 2021 delta-driven onslaught is killing younger Americans at a much higher rate than previous waves of the pandemic in the Northeast last spring, the Sun Belt in the summer of 2020 and the deadly winter surge around the holidays.

During the peaks of those waves, Americans over 75 suffered the highest proportion of death. Now, the most vulnerable age group for death is 50 to 64, according to data from U.S. officials.

Overall, the outbreak is still well below the all-time peaks reached over the winter, when deaths topped out at 3,400 a day and new cases at a quarter-million per day.

The U.S. is now averaging over 150,000 new cases per day, levels not seen since January. Deaths are close to 1,500 per day, up more than a third since late August.

Even before the delta variant became dominant, experts say there were indications that larger gatherings and relaxed social distancing measures were fueling new cases.

We had been cooped up for over a year and everyone wanted to get out, said Dr. David Dowdy, an epidemiologist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. In the face of that kind of strong change in behavior, even getting almost two-thirds of our adult population vaccinated wasnt enough.

The COVID-19 vaccines remain highly effective against hospitalization and death, but many tens of millions of eligible Americans remain unvaccinated. Nearly 40% of Americans 12 and older are not fully protected.

In Rapid City, South Dakota, school officials have recorded nearly 300 cases among students and staff since classes began less than two weeks ago. Still, the majority of school board officials voted this week 5-2 against a proposed two-week mask mandate.

Nobody wanted to be here. Everyone wanted the personal freedom to be away from masks and free of illness, said Amy Policky, who introduced the proposal with one other member. But we have to look at the facts: Were having illness rage through the school and the community, so what can we do?

Still, Yale's Vermund sees reasons to be cautiously optimistic about the next few months. Cases in most states appear to be plateauing and are likely to decline in the fall, buying health authorities more time to vaccinate adults and teenagers before flu season.

If we can continue making progress between now and Thanksgiving, we may be able to substantially blunt the coronavirus surge in flu season, Vermund said.

While the economy has been rebounding strongly over the past several months, hiring slowed sharply in August in a sign that the variant is discouraging Americans from flying, shopping or eating out.

And on Monday, unemployment benefits  including an extra $300 a week from the federal government  ran out for millions of Americans.

Button, the North Carolina chef, was feeling great heading into the summer. Her team was mostly vaccinated in May and restrictions were loosening. But the crisis soon changed direction.

Button supports the mask mandate that was recently reinstated in her county but said her employees are exhausted by having to enforce it. And since she has no outdoor seating, some diners have been less comfortable coming in.

Its hard to take a step forward and then take three steps back, she said.

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Associated Press data journalist Nicky Forster contributed to this report from New York. Durbin reported from Detroit.
NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (AP)  President Joe Biden turned the page on one legacy of 9/11 by ending the war in Afghanistan. But he has yet to do much about another: the Guantanamo Bay detention center.

The White House says it intends to shutter the prison on the U.S. base in Cuba, which opened in January 2002 and where most of the 39 men still held have never been charged with a crime. How or when the administration will carry out that plan remains unclear, though early moves to free one prisoner and place five others on a list of those eligible for release have generated optimism among some eager to see it close, including prisoners.

The fact that Biden, at least, is saying the right things has given people hope, said Clive Stafford Smith, a lawyer who was recently making his 40th trip to Guantanamo Bay, seeing prisoners he hadnt been able to visit since the start of the pandemic. Hope is a dangerous thing because its easily crushed. But at the same time, at least, they have hope and thats good.

As he did with Afghanistan, Biden faces a complex task in closing Guantanamo. It was a pledge that President Barack Obama famously made, and then failed to carry out. Closure was abandoned as a goal altogether under President Donald Trump, who vowed once to load it up with some bad dudes but mostly just ignored the place.

The challenge now, as then, remains: What should the U.S. government do with the men at Guantanamo it isnt ready to release?

Among them are Khalid Shaikh Mohammad, a onetime senior al-Qaida figure considered the architect of the 9/11 attacks. He faces a trial by military commission with four co-defendants that  amid legal and logistical challenges, personnel issues and the pandemic  has been bogged down in the pretrial stage at a specially built high-security courtroom for more than 9 years. There is no start in sight.

Mohammad and his co-defendants were in court this week for the first time since the start of the pandemic for a hearing on the qualifications of a new judge, Air Force Col. Matthew McCall, to preside over the sprawling death penalty case. It was the 42nd round of pretrial hearings since the arraignment in May 2012.

With the passage of time comes new problems. The oldest prisoner, a Pakistani cleared for release in May but who remains at Guantanamo, is 74 and has heart disease and other ailments. A number of other men have significant physical and mental health issues as well that will need to be addressed if indefinite detention goes on much longer. Since Guantanamo opened, nine prisoners have died  two from natural causes, and seven in apparent suicides.

People are getting older, sicker, more and more desperate, said Pardiss Kebriaei, an attorney with the Center for Constitutional Rights who represents a Yemeni prisoner who was recently cleared but remains held.

Its not surprising, really, that no one made long-term plans for the detention center. It was a makeshift project from the start.

Following the invasion of Afghanistan, in reaction to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the U.S. wanted a place to hold the hundreds of prisoners from dozens of countries swept up by American forces, many handed over, as it turned out later, in exchange for bounties regardless of whether they had a connection to al-Qaida or the Taliban.

The administration of then President George W. Bush declared they were the worst of the worst, and asserted it could hold the men overseas, without charge as unlawful enemy combatants, not entitled to the full protections of prisoners of war at the sleepy Navy outpost on the jagged southeastern coast of Cuba.

A photo released by the Pentagon showed the first detainees, clad in orange jumpsuits, and kneeling in outdoor cages under the tropical sun. It was intended to show a message that we are doing what we need to do in a defiant message to the world, said Karen Greenberg, director of the Center on National Security at Fordham Law.

They regretted that decision very soon afterwards, within days if not weeks, said Greenberg, author of The Least Worst Place: Guantanamos First 100 Days.

As reports emerged of brutal treatment, Guantanamo became a source of international outrage, undercutting the sympathy and support the U.S. drew after the 9/11 attacks.

The U.S. would end up holding 779 prisoners at Guantanamo and spend hundreds of millions constructing and operating what today looks more or less like a small state prison, surrounded by razor wire and guard posts at the edge of the shimmering Caribbean Sea.

Bush would ultimately let 532 prisoners out. Obama released 197. Trump released a single detainee, a Saudi who went back to his homeland after striking a plea deal in the problem-plagued military commissions.

Few of those held could be charged with a crime because no evidence was collected when they were captured, or there wasnt any, or it was tainted beyond use when the detainees were subjected to what the CIA euphemistically called enhanced interrogation. Of those who remain, 10 are facing trial by military commission, with all still in the pretrial stage.

Over the years, the population has steadily shrunk as the U.S. decided some men no longer posed a threat and werent worth holding amid legal challenges. It has also at times been roiled by hunger strikes and rocked by clashes between prisoners and guards, sparked largely by frustration at being held indefinitely without charge under what the U.S. asserted was its right under the international laws of war.

Guantanamo is smaller and quieter now. But Stafford Smith, a founder of the human rights organization Reprieve, says its still oppressive. Its not so much the physical conditions, its the psychological conditions, he said. Being told that youre in Hotel California and you can check out but you can never leave, that psychologically is immensely damaging to people.

Obama, who issued an executive order shortly after taking office directing that Guantanamo be closed within a year, ran into political opposition when his administration announced it would move the military trials to federal courts. Congress eventually added language to the annual Pentagon authorization bill prohibiting the government from moving Guantanamo prisoners into the United States for any reason.

In a sign that the political winds might be shifting, Congress recently stripped the prohibition on transferring Guantanamo Bay prisoners from the Pentagon authorization and eliminated funding for the detention center from next years budget. It remains to be seen whether that will change, particularly after several former prisoners, released under both Bush and Obama, emerged as Taliban leaders in Afghanistan.

The Biden administration, which didnt respond to requests for comment for this article, hasnt said much about its plans.

I dont have a timeline for you, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when asked in July about closing Guantanamo. As you know, theres a process. There are different layers of the process. But that remains our goal, and we are considering all available avenues to responsibly transfer detainees and, of course, close Guantanamo Bay.

Those who support closure are encouraged by the fact that the new administration has revived a review board process and has cleared five for release. (None were cleared under Trump). But they are concerned that Biden team has yet to name anyone at the State Department to lead an effort to secure agreements with other countries for the resettlement of prisoners, as was done under Obama.

Many argue that the simplest solution would be to move the cases of the 10 detainees facing trial by military commission to federal court in the U.S. and find a way to transfer or release the rest. Kebriaei, the attorney whose Yemeni client is awaiting release, said the administration just needs to focus on the issue.

Theres a sense that it has to be done and very practically more of a possibility that it can be done," she said.

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Ben Fox writes about national security for The Associated Press in Washington. He has reported from Guantanamo Bay many times since 2005. Follow him on Twitter at http://twitter.com/benfoxatap
AMMAN, Jordan (AP)  A Jordanian court on Thursday upheld the conviction of two former senior officials on sedition and other charges connected to an alleged plot against the kingdom involving the half-brother of King Abdullah II.

Bassem Awadallah, who has U.S. citizenship and once served as a top aide to the king, and Sharif Hassan bin Zaid, a member of the royal family, were sentenced to 15 years in prison in July by a state security court. They were accused of conspiring with Hamzah, a former crown prince, and of seeking foreign assistance.

They had been swept up in a wave of arrests in April. Prince Hamzah, who was placed under house arrest that month, denied being part of any conspiracy and said he was being targeted for speaking out against corruption. The king later announced that the royal rift had been resolved within the family, and Hamzah was never charged with anything.

Jordan is a close Western ally that hosts hundreds of thousands of refugees and has long been seen as an island of stability in a volatile region. But the rare palace feud exposed deep-rooted economic and social challenges in the country, which borders Israel, the occupied West Bank, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

Awadallahs U.S.-based lawyer, Michael Sullivan, had slammed the initial verdict, saying there had been a complete lack of due process and that his client had suffered inhumane treatment, including beatings and psychological torture. Jordanian prosecutors denied those allegations.

In a statement Thursday, Sullivan called the decision a dark day for justice.

This decision to uphold the original, predetermined verdict and outrageous sentence by a secret court in Jordan violates every international standard for justice and human rights and makes a mockery of the rule of law, he said.

He said Awadallah continues to be held in solitary confinement and denied contact with his family. Sullivan, a former federal prosecutor, urged the U.S. government to continue its investigation into Awadallah's treatment and to demand the release of the full transcript of the closed trial.

Last month, the U.S. Embassy in Amman expressed concerns about allegations of mistreatment and the denial of family visits.

On Thursday, the Court of Cassation dismissed an appeal field by lawyers for the two men, saying they were convicted in accordance with the law, according to the state-run Petra news agency.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  Immigration officers feared him. So, too, did prosecutors, prison officials and police. They thought he could launch a terror attack at any moment. Even the prime minister wanted him deported.

Yet, in the end, nobody in New Zealand was able to stop an extremist inspired by the Islamic State group from walking free from prison in July. Seven weeks later, he grabbed a knife at an Auckland supermarket and began stabbing shoppers, injuring seven in a frenzied attack.

Court records, interviews and agency accounts explain how years of red flags weren't enough to stop him.

___

 October 2011: Ahamed Aathil Samsudeen, 22, arrives in New Zealand from Sri Lanka on a student visa. The following month, he withdraws from his studies and makes a claim for refugee status.

 April 2012: Immigration officials decline his refugee claim, saying they found inconsistencies and an unreliable medical report. He appeals, and an immigration tribunal takes a fresh look at the case.

 December 2012: Samsudeen, a Tamil Muslim, tells the tribunal that if he's sent back home, he'll face persecution because of a falling out between his father and a former colonel from the Tamil Tigers insurgent group.

He says that once, several armed men kidnapped him and his father, stripping them, cutting them, burning them with cigarettes and beating them unconscious.

A psychologist tells the tribunal that Samsudeen is a damaged young man" who's suffering post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.

The tribunal concludes that while parts of Samsudeen's story are "superficially unsatisfactory," that it's best to give him the benefit of the doubt. It grants him refugee status, and he later becomes a permanent resident of New Zealand.

 April 2016: Samsudeen is noticed by police and intelligence agencies. He's been posting his support for the Islamic State on Facebook, including graphic videos, as well as support for terror attacks in Paris and Brussels. Police speak twice to Samsudeen at his home. He apologizes, saying he's closed down his Facebook page.

But he soon reopens the account and keeps posting. He describes stabbing enemies and cutting off their heads.

Exactly what causes Samsudeen's descent into extremism remains unclear.

His brother describes him as spending too much time online and suffering from mental health problems. Samsudeen's mother says that at one point in New Zealand, her son fell from a great height, and that neighbors from Syria and Iran helped him recover but also brainwashed him.

A roommate tells police that Samsudeen wants to travel to Syria to fight for the Islamic State group and, failing that, wants to kill somebody with a knife.

 May 2017: Police arrest Samsudeen at Auckland Airport with a backpack, a few thousand dollars and a ticket to Singapore. They believe he is trying to get to Syria to join the Islamic State.

At his apartment, police find a hunting knife with a long blade. Samsudeen says it's for protection. They also find extremist videos and photos of him posing with a gun.

He's jailed on various charges, including distributing the videos, possessing the knife and credit card fraud. He will spend most of the next four years behind bars.

 August 2017: Worried about the threat Samsudeen poses, immigration authorities reexamine his refugee application. They find fabricated statements from his family to support his claim and an embellished medical report. They begin a protracted process to cancel his refugee status.

 May 2018: Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern asks officials about his immigration status and options for him to be deported. The following month, Samsudeen pleads guilty to five charges and is released on bail.

 August 2018: He pays cash for another hunting knife  the same model as the one police found the previous year. Police search his home again and find a ninja throwing star weapon and more Islamic State videos, including some showing extreme violence.

He's also been posting his support for terrorism on Facebook again. After just six weeks of freedom, Samsudeen is back behind bars, facing new charges that are similar to the earlier ones.

 February 2019: Immigration authorities finally cancel Samsudeen's refugee status on the basis of fraud. Two months later, he's served with a deportation notice. Samsudeen appeals once more to the independent tribunal. More than two years later, the hearing was still pending.

 June 2020: In prison, staff believe he has potentially violent extremist views, but he refuses to meet with a prison psychologist or engage with an imam. He repeatedly throws feces and urine at corrections officers. He argues with officers, punching two of them, and assaults another staffer. Corrections officials decide to move him to a maximum security prison.

 July 2020: Prosecutors try to charge Samsudeen with terrorism. They argue there's evidence that he bought the knife with the intention of killing people and to further an ideological cause.

But a judge doesn't think the act of buying a knife is enough.

The judge also finds that New Zealand's anti-terror laws don't specifically cover plots. That could be an Achilles' heel, the judge acknowledges, adding that "it is not open to a court to create an offense ... the issue is for Parliament.

 May 2021: With Samsudeen's release from prison looming, immigration officials look at options for keeping him behind bars until he's deported. But after considering legal advice, they come to a startling conclusion: Samsudeen probably can't be deported after all. He could face torture or death if he's sent back to Sri Lanka, and therefore would qualify to stay in New Zealand as a so-called protected person.

It appears to be a Catch-22: Samsudeen's extremism and crimes in New Zealand have potentially exposed him to worse treatment back in Sri Lanka  and have consequently protected him from being sent there.

 July 13, 2021: Despite the concerns of many, from the prime minister down, a judge releases Samsudeen, sentencing him to a years monitoring under the care of an Auckland mosque leader, after a jury finds him guilty of more minor charges. The judge rejects a call from prosecutors for him to wear a GPS tracker.

Police assign some 30 officers to tail Samsudeen day and night. He knows he's being followed.

 Sept. 3, 2021: Samsudeen catches a train from the mosque in the Auckland suburb of Glen Eden to a mall in New Lynn. At a Countdown supermarket, he grabs a shopping cart and walks the aisles for about 10 minutes.

Undercover officers have been following him for 53 days straight. They're stationed just outside the supermarket, hanging back more than usual because a coronavirus outbreak that began the previous month means there are new social distancing requirements and fewer shoppers, making their presence more obvious.

Samsudeen grabs a kitchen knife from a store shelf and begins stabbing shoppers while chanting Allahu akbar  meaning God is great. People begin running and screaming.

The officers confront Samsudeen within a couple of minutes of the attack beginning. Police say Samsudeen charges at them with the knife and they shoot him dead.

In all, five shoppers have been stabbed and two more injured in the chaos.

Since the attack, two victims remain hospitalized in intensive care units while two more are in general wards, and all are in stable condition. Three more are recovering at home.

Ardern, the prime minister, vows to hurry new anti-terror laws, which were already in the works, to address the gap in prosecuting those who plot an attack. She's also examining whether changes are needed to deportation laws and policies.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  A New Mexico police officer who adopted a child from a pregnant woman he found using heroin in what has been held up as an alternative to abortion is pictured in uniform on an anti-abortion billboard without his permission, his superiors say.

Albuquerque Police Officer Ryan Holets appears on a billboard along an interstate that runs through the city, along with the words "My favorite right is life."

The images include two of him holding his daughters, including one daughter he adopted from a couple he found shooting heroin while on patrol in 2017. Holets also helped raise money to find housing for girl's biological parents while they completed a drug rehabilitation program in 2018.

The heroin-using woman was pregnant at the time Holets found her, and she agreed to give up the girl for adoption after the birth.

Anti-abortion activists have held up Holets' adoption of the girl as an alternative to abortion, including the grandmother of his other daughter, Ethel Maharg.

She is the executive director of Right to Life New Mexico, the anti-abortion group that used his image on the billboard.

The Albuquerque Police Department says Holets declined the group permission to use the image of him in uniform because it would violate policy.

The group used the images anyway, without permission and contrary to the wishes of a police officer who has distinguished himself for his integrity, police spokesman Gilbert Gallegos said.

Thats not true, Maharg told local TV station KRQE in an edited interview. Officer Holets never told me that I couldnt.

Its unclear who took the photos, which are used without attribution on a number of anti-abortion websites.

I think they came from Ethel or from the New Mexico Right to Life," said Albuquerque Pastor Dewey Moede, who used them in a blog post last year.

Holets has participated in political rallies and even spoke at the 2020 Republican National Convention, but he did not wear a uniform or badge.

Gallegos, the police spokesmen, said he hadn't seen the images on the partisan blog posts, and he couldn't immediately say if they violated department policy.

Maharg did not return messages left with her staff Wednesday, who said she was traveling. A staff member said her comments to the television station lacked context, but declined to send a copy of the interview she said she had recorded.

___

Attanasio 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 under-covered issues. Follow Attanasio on Twitter.
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WATERBURY  Quilts that Care, Inc., based in Waterbury, announced that it has canceled its in-person fundraisers for 2021. Instead, an appeal will run through the year.

The three annual fundraisers have been canceled this year, members said in a statement. Our largest fundraiser is a reception at The Village at East Farms in Waterbury, one of our biggest sponsors and supporters. Raymour and Flanigan hosts an annual bingo night for QTC, and the Pontelandolfo Community Club in Waterbury has held a fundraising night for QTC. That's why this appeal is necessary. Funding is utilized for rent on the or-ganization's headquarters on Scott Road in Waterbury and for other expenses.
The orders have been sudden, dramatic and often baffling. Last week, "American Idol"-style competitions and shows featuring men deemed too effeminate were banned by Chinese authorities. Days earlier, one of China's wealthiest actresses, Zhao Wei, had her movies, television series and news mentions scrubbed from the Internet as if she had never existed.

Over the summer, China's multibillion-dollar private education industry was decimated overnight by a ban on for-profit tutoring, while new regulations wiped more than $1 trillion from Chinese tech stocks since a peak in February. As China's tech moguls compete to donate more to President Xi Jinping's campaign against inequality, "Xi Jinping Thought" is taught in elementary schools, and foreign games and apps like Animal Crossing and Duolingo have been pulled from stores.

A dizzying regulatory crackdown unleashed by China's government has spared almost no sector over the past few months. This sprawling "rectification" campaign - with such disparate targets as ride-hailing services, insurance, education and even the amount of time children can spend playing video games - is redrawing the boundaries of business and society in China as Xi prepares to take on a controversial third term in 2022.

"It's striking and significant. This is clearly not a sector-by-sector rectification; this is an entire economic, industry and structural rectification," said Jude Blanchette, who holds the Freeman Chair in China Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

At China's national congress next fall, Xi is expected to retain his title as general secretary of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP), a move that would upset a decades-old system of term limits and leadership succession. To build momentum, he is pushing an agenda of tackling income inequality under the banner of "common prosperity," a campaign that gives officials and companies rallying around the cause opportunity to show their loyalty before the reshuffle of party personnel.

According to authorities, restricting the private tutoring industry is meant to level the playing field in China's highly competitive schools and lessen the financial burden on families. China's biggest tech companies have been brought to heel in the name of protecting competition and consumer data.

Yet other recent regulations targeting the country's youth appear aimed at asserting control over popular culture, measures that critics say limit the public's few outlets for debate and expression.

Officials are cracking down on China's fervent fan clubs whose members discuss and rank celebrities, going to extreme lengths to support their favored stars. (When Chinese Canadian pop star Kris Wu was detained on allegations of rape in August, his fans flooded social media in his defense and called for breaking him out of prison.)

Male Chinese celebrities known for their androgynous style have also become a threat in Beijing's eyes. Last week, regulators ordered broadcasters to encourage "masculinity" and put a stop to "abnormal beauty standards" such as "niangpao," a slur that translates to "sissy men."

"The party does not feel comfortable with expressions of individualism that are in some ways transgressive to norms that it puts forward," said Rana Mitter, a professor of modern Chinese history and politics at the University of Oxford. "The party-state makes it clear that it has the first and last word on what is permitted in mass culture."

Within China, the campaign has been met with a mix of approval and skepticism. Liang Min, 35, a linguist from Jilin province, said China's pop idol culture, in which young fans donate money to celebrities, is out of control. "The teenagers are being misled. Personally, I'm proud of this action," Liang said.

Internet users criticized the order against "sissy" culture as state-sponsored homophobia. "Sissy men will not harm the country, but prejudice and narrow thinking will," said one comment that was censored on WeChat after getting more than 100,000 views.

Jo Tan, 33, an administrator at a test prep school in Changsha in Hunan province, said the limits on tutoring have done more harm than good. Her company has halved its head count and teachers must work longer hours.

"Students still have to compete to get into good schools and colleges, and many of us are now on the verge of being unemployed," she said.

"Whoever came up with this policy probably never had to worry about their children's education," Tan said, adding that making high school and universities free would do more to promote equality in education.

Michael Shou, general manager of an on-demand English tutoring platform, said he expects more regulatory action in more sectors.

"I do believe we are seeing a profound transformation of society, especially given that the government has implemented definitive and strict regulatory measures in such a short amount of time and in so many different industries," he said.

Xi's crusade has left the country's previously all-powerful tech titans, such as Alibaba's Jack Ma and Tencent's Pony Ma, in no doubt about who controls China's future. But it has also alarmed investors.

Regulators on Wednesday summoned Tencent and Netease over their online gaming platforms, ordering the companies to eliminate content promoting "incorrect values" such as "money worship" and "sissy" culture. Both firms promised to "carefully study" and implement the orders.

Officials have been working to restore investor confidence, with Vice Premier Liu He promising during a forum on Monday in Hebei province that China's support for the private economy "has not changed and will not change in the future." On Tuesday, the People's Daily ran a front-page article pledging the government's "unswerving commitment" to the private sector and protecting foreign capital and competition.

The scope and velocity of the society-wide rectification has some worried China may be at the beginning of the kind of cultural and ideological upheaval that has brought the country to a standstill before.

Last week, an essay by a retired newspaper editor and blogger described the changes as a response to threats from the United States. "What these events tell us is that a monumental change is taking place in China, and that the economic, financial, cultural, and political spheres are undergoing a profound transformation - or, one could say, a profound revolution," wrote Li Guangman.

The essay, picked up by China's state media outlets, prompted comparisons with a 1965 article that launched China's chaotic decade-long Cultural Revolution, and left even some in the party establishment worried.

Hu Xijin, the outspoken editor of the state-run Global Times, criticized the article as misleading and an "extreme interpretation" of the recent rush of regulatory orders that could trigger "confusion and panic."

Differences over the article may be a sign of deeper dispute within the party, according to Yawei Liu, a senior adviser focusing on China at the Carter Center in Atlanta, who wrote that such disagreement indicates "raging debate inside the CCP on the merits of reform and opening up, on where China is today . . . and about what kind of nation China wants to become."

Residents expect more measures to come, targeting regular life as well as other sectors. While the Ministry of Culture and Tourism is preparing a ban on karaoke songs deemed out of line with "the core values of socialism," city officials are regulating dancing in China's parks, a popular pastime for retirees. In an editorial in the People's Daily last week, the vice chairman of the Chinese Film Association called on filmmakers to make more patriotic films and "further promote" Xi Jinping Thought.

Ouyang Haotian, a student from Guangzhou studying event management at Macau University of Science and Technology, said the government's crackdowns are well-meaning but sometimes implemented too abruptly.

"Everything the government does - they do it to maintain the stability of its governance, sometimes without considering the impacts on individuals," said the 22-year-old. "It is a trial and error process, so people have to accept those errors and move on."

Still, he said, the measures can go too far. "There is a point where government regulations stop working. You can ban artists and certain movies or songs, but you cannot teach people what to think," he said.

- - -

The Washington Post's Lyric Li in Seoul and Alicia Chen and Pei-Lin Wu in Taipei, Taiwan, contributed to this report.
Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo has instituted another mask mandate, but just for us civilians.

A picture is worth a thousand words, as you can see from an image I posted on Twitter, where Fred is unmasked and huddled cheek to cheek with six other people just over a week ago.

The rules apparently dont apply to him.

He was in a tent. This is why these regulations are stupid. An enclosed tent is OK, but a barbershop or gym is not?

Nationwide there are a ton of Freds. Gavin Newsom at the French laundry, Gretchen Whitmers trip to Florida when her state was locked down. They dont practice what they preach. Its theater. Republican Town Committee Vice Chair Jackie Budkins and Selectwoman Lauren Rabin have almost unilaterally supported Freds policies, and look  they are in the picture without masks.

You believe in this stuff and practice it, or you dont and youre a hypocrite. You can see from that photo that they dont believe in it. No social distancing, no masks. But per Freds policy, a waiter in the background wears a mask. They tell me I must wear one in the gym. Ironically, thats where the highest concentration of healthy people, the people who probably do not get COVID as badly, hang out.

As a Republican, (which Fred claims to be), I will stand up against anyones attempt to mask me or my kids. I will not comply! And dont give me that crap about it being for other people. Thats a strawman.

Fred doesnt follow his own rules. If you practice hocus-pocus COVID theater, thats your choice. But management at the expense of our liberty, with do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do mandates, is no management at all. Its just a mess of petty tyranny, ego and incompetence. Thats not what I voted for.

Greenwich Representative Town Meeting member Carl Higbie is a former Navy SEAL who was chief of external affairs for the Corporation for National and Community Service under President Donald Trump.
Milton, PA (17847)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning. Thunderstorms likely during the afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 83F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with still a chance of showers. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%.
Northeast Pennsylvania residents can meet today with officials from 20 CenterPoint Commerce and Trade Park companies that are seeking to hire new employees.

The third annual CenterPoint job fair is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in a Mericle flex building at 159 CenterPoint Blvd. in Jenkins Twp.

The job fair comes on the heels of federal pandemic unemployment compensation benefits ending for more than 558,000 Pennsylvanians.

Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services, the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce, Pennsylvania CareerLink Luzerne County and the Luzerne/Schuylkill Workforce Development Board are coordinating the event.

The job fair was organized to help businesses located in CenterPoint fill a variety of open positions.

Some businesses planning to attend include American Paper Bag, Benco Dental, Boden, Cardbox Packaging, Cintas, Greater Wyoming Valley Area YMCA, Greiner Packaging, Lowes RDC, Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services, Neiman Marcus, Pepsi Beverages, Quietflex, Radienz Living, Shipmonk, Sky Zone, Tailored Brands, The Black Tux, The Home Depot, USHydrations and Waverly Cabinets.

Attendees will be asked to wear masks and follow other CDC-recommended COVID-19 prevention guidelines.

Pennsylvania CareerLink Administrator Christine Jensen said CareerLink offices throughout the state are poised to assist job seekers obtain employment or training needed to start a new career.

CareerLink officials will be at the job fair but Jensen also encouraged job seekers to visit their offices in Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton and Pottsville.

Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce Executive Vice President Michelle Mikitish also encouraged anyone who is looking for a new job to stop at the CenterPoint Job Fair.

If you have been out of the workforce for some time or are a new graduate planning to enter the workforce or someone looking to transition into a new career, this is a great chance to check out the many rewarding opportunities for employees right here in Greater Pittston, Mikitish said.
Ashtabula, OH (44004)

Today

Showers likely along with a possible rumble of thunder this morning, then cloudy skies this afternoon. High around 70F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Some clouds this evening will give way to mainly clear skies overnight. Low around 55F. Winds light and variable.
A number of 2,226 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 were registered in the last 24 hours, from 39,228 tests done, the Strategic Communication Group announced on Thursday.

These are cases that did not have a positive test result prior.

Until Thursday, nationwide, there have been 1,113,381 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus and 1,062,366 patients were declared cured.

At a national level, until this time there have been 9,227,747 RT-PCR tests done and 2,614,073 quick antigenic tests.

In the last 24 hours there have been 15,261 RT-PCR tests made (6,721 based on the case definition and medical protocol and 8,540 upon request) and 23,967 quick antigenic tests.

Apart from the newly confirmed cases, upon retesting patients who were already positive, 240 people were reconfirmed positive.

Romania reports 39 COVID deaths over past 24 hours, death toll hits 34,871

As many as 39 deaths in SARS-CoV-2 patients have been reported in the last 24 hours, to which another 40 add, occurred prior to the reporting period, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) informs today, Agerpres informs.

The deceased patients are 42 men and 37 women who had been hospitalised in the counties of Botosani, Buzau, Caras-Severin, Calarasi, Cluj, Constanta, Dambovita, Dolj, Ilfov, Ialomita, Maramures, Olt, Prahova, Satu Mare, Teleorman, Timis, Vaslui, Vrancea, Valcea and in Bucharest City.

Four of the 79 fatalities were in the 30 - 39 age range, 3 in the 40 - 49 age range, 13 in the 50 - 59 age range, 15 in the 60 - 69 age range, 22 in the 70 - 79 age range and 22 in people over 80 years of age.

72 of the victims had known underlying medical conditions, two did not suffer from comorbidities and for five there has been no such report so far.

523 patients with COVID-19 in ICU, of whom 8 children

According to the quoted source, 523 patients have been admitted in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 8 of them being children.

Nationwide, 13,939 people confirmed with being infected with the novel coronavirus are self-isolating at home and 3,647 are in institutional isolation.

Furthermore, 54,291 people are self-quarantining at home and 86 people are in institutional quarantine.

In the last 24 hours there have been 1,650 calls made to the unique emergency number 112 and 479 calls to the TELVERDE (0800 800 358), opened especially for informing citizens.
USR PLUS (Save Romania Union - Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity) Co-Chairman Dan Barna said on Thursday, referring to the dismissal of the prefects and secretaries of state proposed by his party, that it is a "contradictory gesture" of Prime Minister Florin Citu, who sends "false messages" according to which he would like agreement with USR PLUS.

He said the solution to the situation was a new prime minister.

"The solution is a new prime minister and thus this coalition can work. It is the only option for USR PLUS through which this coalition could move forward," Barna added, Agerpres informs.

Dan Barna mentioned that Florin Citu said that the speed of the vaccination campaign is being sabotaged by USR PLUS, which has nothing to do with reality.

Prime Minister Florin Citu announced that he had approved the dismissal of 14 prefects and 28 sub-prefects.
The Alliance of Chronic Patients of Romania (APCR) states that the current political crisis "deepens" the situation in healthcare and the chronic patient of Romania remains without treatment, and those most affected are cancer patients and HIV/AIDS patients.

"The healthcare crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic amplified the issues that chronic patients in Romania were facing in what regards access to therapies. As if that wasn't enough, the current political crisis deepens the situations, digging the pit the healthcare system is in deeper, starving it from necessary funding, and with it the chronic patient, left without treatment. Among those most affected by the current situation are patients with cancer and patients with HIV/AIDS; for the latter, the fear of not receiving vital treatment is a constant each month. Doctors are making desperate efforts to calculate medication by the envelope, by the pill, in order for each patient to get it. This practice infringes all norms relating to pharmaco-vigilance, medicine safety and the safety of patients, endangering their health," shows an open letter penned by APCR and sent to all political parties, the Health Ministry, the National Health Insurance House (CNAS) and the Government.

According to the source, "the lack of funds" for these national health programs is signalled by all the regional infectious disease centers in Romania.

"1 in 4 Romanian patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS does not currently follow a treatment specific to their disease, and if the authorities do not take measures now, this number will increase considerably. Interrupting antiretroviral treatment determines an increase in the risk of death, as well as the risk of spreading HIV infection. Once more, the political factor is endangering the lives of chronic patients in danger. (...) And at this moment, the regulation regarding the HomeDelivery activity (distribution of medication to the home of the chronic patient) is delayed," the letter also shows.

APCR claims that the interruption of treatment for even 1-2 days for HIV/AIDS patients can alter the entire therapeutic scheme (multi-drug schemes).

"This leads to an aggravation of health status, exhausting all scheme variants due to the generation of viral resistance to therapy, and if these patients are to be committed, medical assistance is nearly impossible, given the fact that infectious disease hospitals are once more full with COVID-19 patients. In the case of patients with cancer, the lack of medication is directly a death sentence, because cancer is an emergency, and most types of cancer have a galloping evolution," say the APCR representatives.

At the same time, they appeal to the politicians in the Government to resolve the current situation and state that they will inform the European Parliament as well.

Acting Health Minister Cseke Attila said on Thursday that the funds allocated to the Ministry of Health and the National Health Insurance House for the budget amendment are enough to cover the "day-to-day" expenses in the health system, "including" treatment for HIV-AIDS patients, for those with tuberculosis, but also for the payment of staff in vaccination centers, Agerpres informs.
The Government has decided to prolong the state of alert by 30 days, with the single modification being the extension of the validity period of the antigen tests from 24 to 48 hours, Prime Minister Citu informs on Thursday

State of alert to be extended for another 30 days, starting September 10

The National Committee for Emergency Situations (CNSU) has approved, on Thursday, the decision to propose the extension of the state of alert on the entire territory of Romania, for a period of 30 days, starting with September 10, Agerpres informs.

According to the decision, starting September 13, the continuation for another 60 days of the pilot-project conducted on the Sibiu International Airport's Arrivals terminal is approved. The project uses canine teams, specially trained by the Dr. Aurel Greblea Canine Center in Sibiu of the Romanian Police, to detect persons infected with SARS-CoV-2.

In the mentioned period, all persons transiting the Arrivals terminal of the Sibiu International Airport can be subjected to checks to detect infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus conducted by specially trained canine teams. The persons indicated by the canine teams as possible infected are freely tested with a rapid test for SARS-CoV-2 virus infection by the staff of the Sibiu Public Health Directorate (DSP Sibiu) or the medical staff existing at the level of the airport. The rapid tests used as part of the pilot project are freely ensured by DSP Sibiu.

Also starting September 13, a similar pilot-project is approved to start for a period of 60 days on the grounds of the Avram Iancu International airport in Cluj.
Prime Minister Florin Citu told the private TV broadcaster Digi 24 on Wednesday night that he will never negotiate "personal interests", but "only those of the National Liberal Party and the Romanians", at the discussions about the division of power functions within the formation of a governing coalition.

He thus replied, asked how he comments on a statement by the PNL chair, Ludovic Orban, given on Wednesday night on a TV channel, according to whom if he wins the elections for the PNL's presidency, in 48 hours he restores the governing coalition.

"It was harder in the winter to do it. I'm telling you something else: in the PNL it's a big disappointment at the way the portfolios were negotiated in the winter. Many of my colleagues have said that chair Orban first negotiated his position as Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies and then remained the portfolios (of ministers, ed. n.). At the budget rectification I looked at the largest ministries and there are the Ministries of Health, Transport, Investments and there was another one (...), ministries that are not with us. I mean that there are the ministries with money and a negotiation made by the PNL president in winter transmitted and created this problem in the party, that these ministries have reached USR (Save Romania Union). If he does such a negotiation again, I don't think he's going to be very well regarded in the PNL. When we negotiate, we need to negotiate the interests of the PNL, not personal interests. I will never negotiate personal interests, only those of the PNL and of the Romanians, of course," Florin Citu stressed.
Romania's President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday that Romania has recorded a significant economic growth, adding that the Romanians living in Switzerland would find well-paid good jobs in Romania.

"For Romanians living in Switzerland - and the vast majority of them are very well integrated here - I have only words of encouragement. Romania is moving forward, we have a significant, positive economic development and I am convinced that increasingly more people would find in Romania a job that is not only well paid, but also very good. I am encouraging them to explore the existing opportunities," Iohannis told a joint news conference with his Swiss counterpart, Guy Parmelin.

He pointed out that Romania's accession to the border-free Schengen area remains an objective of European policy, Agerpres informs.

"For free movement, it is obvious that to Romania being part of the Schengen area is still an objective of European policy, which for movement both ways is clearly a step forward," Iohannis added.

An agreement between the European Union and Switzerland, he added, should be concluded as soon as possible, noting that Romania will be involved in encouraging dialogue on issues that remain unclear.

"It is true that the new agreement between the EU and Switzerland has not yet been signed and put into operation. It is obvious that there is a need to resume some aspects here, but we believe - we in Romania - that this agreement has to be concluded as soon as possible. We are also involved in encouraging dialogue on issues that remain unclear in order to finalise the agreement. The relationships between the union and Switzerland are so deep that it is in our interest that these things be resolved well. But our bilateral relationship with Switzerland is working very well. It is true that the second installment of Switzerland's contribution to cohesion is still on standby. These are issues that need to be clarified between the union and Switzerland," said Iohannis.

The chief of state pointed out that there are many areas in which Romania wants to collaborate with Switzerland.

"We discussed in more details the areas of education, the areas of cyber and cyber security, the areas of economic collaboration, and also research, innovation, where we have a very good potential for collaboration. We had an exchange of views on general issues, and migration also was a topic that we touched on and we want to collaborate in these areas," Iohannis said.

Iohannis on Thursday paid an official visit to Switzerland at the invitation of his Swiss counterpart
Romania's President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday that Swiss investors should be encouraged to come to Romania in as large a number as possible, adding that the government issue is not at all worrying.

"The economic aspects were a significant part of the dialogue I had with the President [of Switzerland, Guy Parmelin]. There are very important and very successful investments, Swiss investments in Romania, and the trend will continue. It is clear that in order to continue to be successful in this relationship, we need to encourage more investors. I can tell you that he is planning a delegation with an economic profile next year that he will lead to Romania to explore more opportunities for collaboration for Swiss companies, and I have strongly encouraged the President to organise such delegation. They will have my full support and the support of my colleagues to find the best ways to promote, and the government issue is not at all worrying. Romania has a government that goes on. The foreign minister is with me. The two foreign ministers had an excellent conversation. From this point of view, no worries," Iohannis told a joint news conference with his Swiss counterpart Guy Parmelin.

Iohannis on Thursday paid an official visit to Switzerland at the invitation of his Swiss counterpart, Agerpres informs.
The chairman of PNL (National Liberal Party) Ludovic Orban considers that the only solution for overcoming the political and governmental crisis in Romania is restoring the governing coalition that was formed after the 2020 parliamentary elections.

He specified that a minority Government cannot truly make reforms and that it cannot bring its program to fruition, highlighting that for these matters they need a parliamentary majority, and without USR PLUS (Save Romania Union - Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity alliance) there is no "decent" parliamentary majority.

"The essential problem is that we have a government and political crisis. None of these big issues can be resolved without having a stable Government, a Government that benefits from majority in Parliament, a clear majority, transparent and a majority that is formed from honorable parties, which indeed have the capacity of implementing a governing program which will respond to all these challenges and also to bring about the big reforms. From my point of view there is only one solution for PNL, namely restoring the governing coalition which was formed after the parliamentary elections. This is the solution, given that USR PLUS made a very clear condition. The sooner this crisis is resolved, the better it is for Romania," Orban said on Wednesday, for local TV broadcaster B1 TV.

The PNL leader mentioned that if he will keep the position of party chairman after the PNL Congress on September 25, he would restore the coalition in at most 48 hours.

Orban also said that if (Prime Minister) Florin Citu remains in power, he will be doing it "out of PSD (Social-Democratic Party)' pity and the non-transparent support of this party.

He also said that the biggest catastrophe for Romania would be a potential restoring of USL (Social-Liberal Union), saying that he personally excludes any collaboration with PSD, of which he believes that "they had a hidden agenda in keeping Romania in poverty".

Asked about a cooling of relations between him and (Romania's President) Klaus Iohannis, Ludovic Orban highlighted that he "is communicating" with the president of Romania, appreciating that his relation with the head of state has not deteriorated.
Prime Minister Florin Citu has approved the release from office of 14 prefects and 28 subprefects.

He mentioned that the subprefects will take over the prefects' responsibilities.

"We are not appointing new prefects or subprefects, there will only be a handover of responsibilities. The offices will remain empty, but the responsibilities will be handed over," the PM told a press statement at the Victoria Palace, Agerpres informs.
Prime Minister Florin Citu stated that he will ask for the resignation of the two presidents of the Deputies' Chamber and the Senate if the Constitutional Court issues a favourable opinion to him and his team regarding the challenge concerning the existence of a conflict of a legal nature between the Parliament and the Executive when it comes to the motion of censure initiated by USR PLUS (Save Romania Union, Freedom, Unity, Solidarity Party) and AUR (Alliance for the Union of Romanians).

"If the Constitutional Court says we are the ones who are right then the presidents of the two Chambers must go," Florin Citu said at the Victoria Palace on Thursday.

More decisions on dismissal of senior ministerial officials are to be published on Thursday

Citu announced on Thursday that more decisions on the dismissal of senior ministerial officials endorsed by the Save Romania Union - Freedom, Unity and Solidarity Party (USR PLUS) alliance will be published in the Official Journal today, given that some of them were left out, Agerpres informs.

"There are more decisions that will be published today, which will settle the matter. (...) Such officials were at the Ministry of Health, and at the Ministry of Investment as well because my colleagues who made the list did not know exactly," he said.

Citu added that the projects they managed will not be delayed, as they will be taken over by other senior officials.

"All the projects move on. The powers have been taken over by other senior officials, and we are moving forward," he added.

The decisions of Prime Minister Florin Citu to remove from office USR PLUS-endorsed senior officials were published on Wednesday evening in the Official Journal.

The decisions regard the dismissal of 26 senior officials, 21 of whom worked in ministries, one at the Department of Romanians Everywhere, one at the National Agency for Fiscal Administration, and three were state advisers or senior officials at the Chancellery of Deputy Prime Minister Dan Barna.

Citu announced on Wednesday evening his intention to dismiss USR PLUS senior officials.

"I tell you what my fear is: when you negotiate with AUR [Alliance for the Union of Romanians] and PSD [Social Democratic Party], you can no longer hold senior positions in ministries, because I don't know what interests they will represent there - AUR's, of PSD's," Citu told Digi 24 private broadcaster.
Prime Minister Florin Citu said on Wednesday night for the private TV broadcaster Digi 24 that his resignation from office would mean that he is "irresponsible", that he agrees to throw the "country in the air" on the eve of winter.

"That would mean that I am being irresponsible too. The world must know that when the Prime Minister leaves, the Government leaves. A resignation of the prime minister means that I agree to blow up the country, to be the irresponsible myself. I will never be irresponsible. PNL (National Liberal Party) is in government, the prime minister is of PNL, we are here to discuss, to find solutions. We will not do what the PSD (Social Democratic Party) has done, we will not throw the country in the air, we will not take down our own government. The PNL will never support a motion of no confidence against its own government, and I will do here exactly what I started. We promised to stabilize the economy last year, we stabilized the economy, this year we have economic growth. Yes, it is not seen in the pockets of the Romanians (...), it will be seen. We will have to continue to invest, we do not have another solution. (...) I am not irresponsible to leave Romania without a government on the brink of winter," Citu said when asked why he does not resign from his position, as requested by those from USR PLUS (Save Romania Coalition - Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity alliance), in order to continue the government in the coalition.
President Klaus Iohannis is carrying out an official visit to the Swiss Confederation on Thursday, following the invitation of his counterpart, Guy Parmelin, whom he will have political consultations with, the Presidential Administration informs.

The Romanian President will be received by his Swiss counterpart at the Presidency of the Swiss Confederation, the Lohn Domain, where the two officials will have face-to-face talks, and will make joint press statements afterwards.

According to the source, the visit is taking place within the constant high-level bilateral dialogue of the last years, as well as the context of celebrating 110 years since establishing diplomatic relations between Romania and the Swiss Confederation.

On the agenda of the two presidents there is the strengthening of the bilateral relations, the economic cooperation included, with emphasis on investments, Switzerland occupying 10th place in the ranking of investors in Romania, as well as sector cooperation.

"From the European agenda's perspective, there will be topics tackled, such as cooperation for combating the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the relations framework between the European Union and the Swiss Confederation, as well as the Swiss contribution to the Union's cohesion fund, namely operationalising the second Swiss financial installment, with the purpose of reducing the social and economic disparities within the Union," the Presidential Administration release reads.

Furthermore, talks will also include topics of international politics, with emphasis on the political and security evolutions from the Eastern Vicinity of the European Union, from the West Balkans region, as well as the Romanian-Swiss cooperation within international organizations.
The Social Democratic Party (PSD) announces that it will start political negotiations for the support in Parliament of a bill on the capping, at a sustainable level for consumers, of energy and gas prices for a period of one year.

"PSD is starting the procedures regarding the constitution of a majority in order to adopt the one-year capping of energy and gas prices. (...) We consider that, after the adoption of the law on vulnerable consumers, capping is the next necessary and effective solution to protect the population facing an unprecedented explosion in the prices of the bill they receive this autumn," reads a PSD release issued on Thursday.

According to the quoted source, in the Parliament there are the necessary premises to build a majority that would support the rapid adoption of this law, Agerpres informs.

"PSD condemns the cynical attitude of Prime Minister Citu, who explicitly opposed the price cap and stated that he will not resort to the existing legal levers, which allow the Government to immediately adopt such a decision. Because the Government only remarks how Romanians receive scandalous offers from the distributors of energy and gas, with 300% price increases, PSD will initiate a draft law on capping prices. We have found that there are the necessary premises in Parliament to build a majority that supports the rapid adoption of such a law,'' PSD representatives add.

Also, the social democrats claim that they will call in the utility companies in the Parliament to give explanations for the "scandalous offers" sent to the clients.

"In parallel, we will call on the utility companies to answer before the parliamentary committee of inquiry set up at the request of PSD for the abuses committed through the scandalous offers sent to customers. We will also call before the committee the leaders of all competent public institutions, the energy minister, the ANRE and Competition Council heads, the management of the National Authority for Consumer Protection, to ask them to take the harshest measures in order to discourage the speculative behavior of state or private companies in the energy market," the said release states.
The presentation of the no-confidence motion started, on Thursday, in the joint plenary sitting of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.

The motion submitted by the USR PLUS and AUR parliamentarians is read by the USR PLUS deputy Bogdan Rodeanu, Agerpres informs.

The no-confidence motion entitled "Dismissal of the Citu Government, Romania's only chance to live! Florin Citu must leave!" was registered on September 3 at the offices of the speakers of the two Chambers.

The joint permanent bureaus of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate were convened on September 3, 4, 6 and 7 in order to establish the calendar of the debate on the no-confidence motion, which, however, could not be achieved due to the lack of a quorum.

The Parliament rejected on Thursday the proposal of the leader of the USR deputies, Ionut Mosteanu, to introduce on the agenda the establishment of the calendar for the debate of the no-confidence motion.

Parliament votes down proposal to set schedule for motion of no-confidence

On Thursday, a plenary sitting of Parliament voted down a proposal of the Save Romania Union (USR) Chamber of Deputies floor leader Ionut Mosteanu to put on the agenda setting a schedule for a debate on the motion of no-confidence against Prime Minister Florin Citu.

The vote was 117 ayes to 216 noes, after Senate Chair Anca Dragu took over the chairmanship of the sitting from Deputy Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Florin Roman.

At the beginning of the sitting, Roman specified that joint plenary sittings are alternately chaired by the chairs of the two chambers.

Mosteanu asked Roman to allow Dragu to preside over the sitting. Roman closed the sitting and left the rostrum of Parliament under pressure from MPs of the Save Romania Union - Freedom, Unity and Solidarity Party (USR PLUS) alliance and the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR).

After Roman announced closing the sitting, the chairmanship was taken over by Dragu.
The President of the Senate, Anca Dragu (Save Romania Union - Party of Liberty, Unity and Solidarity; USR PLUS), believes the decision of the Joint Standing Bureaus to postpone the debate and vote on the censure motion until after the decision of the Constitutional Court of Romania (CCR) is not founded on any article of the Constitution.

"We had quorum because the PNL [National Liberal Party] and PSD [Social Democratic Party] mobilized. They came to the meeting. Most participated in person, some were online. We have today the joint plenum, in which we will read the censure motion and I believe this is the news of the moment, that the censure motion entered this path. Tricks will continue and have continued today, in the second part of the meeting, so that at the proposal of the UDMR [Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania], the debate and vote on the censure motion was postponed until after the CCR decision. This wait for the CCR decision has no purpose and is not founded on any article of the Constitution," said Dragu on Thursday, after the meeting of the Standing Bureaus.

Asked if the joint plenum can decide on another calendar for the debate and vote on the censure motion than that established by the leaderships of the Chambers, Dragu said: "The plenum is sovereign, but we must have majority for such a vote. Thus, we must see the evolution during the plenum. We will analyse together with colleagues and we will make all demarches to respect the Constitution, to move forth with the censure motion, for it to be a legal instrument with sense."

"I saw that PNL and PSD are using all the tricks to prevent this no-confidence motion", Dragu added, Agerpres informs.
Environmental policy decisions must be made in the long term and must be respected regardless of changes at the governmental level, Swedish Ambassador in Bucharest, Therese Hyden, said in Brasov on Thursday, mentioning that in the context in which there is European money for Romania, it should take the biggest leaps in terms of the green transition.

Present at the debates at the International Conference on Public Environmental Policy within the Green Cities Forum, Hyden stressed in a statement to AGERPRES the need for collaboration both locally and internationally on environmental issues.

Hyden said that all cities, all countries, governments, talk about the same issues, we have the same challenges related to climate change: floods, droughts, global warming. Instead of everyone staying in their own home, their own office, in their own government, we should exchange information and set targets together. In Brasov the City Hall and the County Council are collaborating and it is important for the local authorities to collaborate with each other and with the central ones. We need targets, long-term political decisions, not just for tomorrow, for next year. And even if politicians change, governments change, decisions must remain, because they prepare us for the problems that will come in the next five years. In Sweden there is voting once in four years but even if the government changes then or for other reasons, decisions have to be made in the long run, Agerpres informs.

She mentioned, regarding the new financing programs of the European Union, that there is money for environmental projects, including for Romania, appreciating, regarding the projects in this field submitted on PNRR, that "it is important that it exists".

Sweden's ambassador said that what a country like Romania should do is take leaps forward as fast as it can in terms of road construction, but also by achieving, for example, the network of charging stations for electric vehicles. To make sure that it is prepared from the point of view of mobility, not only for cars, but also for other means of transport (...), to make sure that people can travel by car, bicycle, on foot, by train, to get where they need to go. It takes a lot of work and projects at different levels of decision-making. It also takes collaboration, because, for example, for the country, the railway is central, but it can mean something else for the city or the county.
USR PLUS (Save Romania Union, Freedom, Unity, Solidarity Party) co-chair Dan Barna said that Thursday's plenary session where they read the motion of censure reminded him of a "time" in the history of parliamentarism that he thought was long gone, adding that he still hoped, in the end, that the rules "will be observed again."

"We are witnessing times that we thought were long gone in the Romanian Parliament. We saw a desperate attempt by a member of Florin Citu's team to usurp the leadership of the meeting. What Mr. Florin Roman did today reminds us of the Iordache and Dragnea era, those moments that we thought we left behind. This is inadmissible. Fortunately, things have returned to normal. In the end, Anca Dragu was able to lead this joint meeting of the two chambers, the motion of censure was read and we all hope that the observance of the Constitution will become a reality and on Tuesday will have a vote on this motion of censure. (...) The meeting today reminded us of times that we thought were long gone in the history of Romanian parliamentarism," Barna said on Thursday after the plenary sitting.

The Chamber of Deputies and the Senate met on Thursday in a joint sitting for the presentation of the motion of censure filed by USR PLUS and AUR (Alliance for the Union of Romanians), Agerpres informs.

At the beginning of the meeting, Florin Roman specified that the meetings of the joint plenum are alternately chaired by the presidents of the two chambers.

The leader of the USR Deputies, Ionut Mosteanu, asked the vice-president of the Chamber of Deputies, Florin Roman, to allow the president of the Senate, Anca Dragu, to lead the sitting. Roman closed the sitting and left the rostrum of Parliament, under pressure from USR PLUS and AUR MPs.

After Roman announced that he was closing the meeting, the leadership was taken over by the President of the Senate, Anca Dragu.
David Nicklaus David Nicklaus is a business columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow David Nicklaus Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today

Chris Varvares fled the World Trade Center on foot on 9/11, then bought a new Toyota Sequoia in New Jersey and drove back to St. Louis with four colleagues.

Along the way, he was struck by the contrast between the chaos in lower Manhattan and the relatively normal lives people were leading elsewhere. When Varvares, who had been attending a convention in a hotel at the foot of the Twin Towers, got back to his job as an economic forecaster, he came down on the side of optimism.

His forecast assumed that the U.S. would respond effectively and prevent further attacks. There was no way to know if that would happen but if it did, Varvares recalled recently, It made sense that the cyclical impact would be short-lived and we would bounce back.

The economy was already weak, and in fact economists would later decide that it was in the middle of an eight-month recession that began in March 2001. The 9/11 attacks, which shut down air travel for three days and closed the stock market for four days, made the recession deeper.
NorthSide missed its first financing deadline for the hospital, and city leaders last year gave the project an extension. McKee said he closed the gap with financing from the St. Louis-Kansas City Carpenters Regional Council, the United Bank of Union and the Bank of Washington.

The new facility is named after the original Homer G. Phillips Hospital, which trained Black doctors and served Black St. Louisans during segregation. NorthSide has asked state health officials for permission to add Memorial to its name.

The hospital will have three in-patient and 16 emergency-room beds. Hospital officials said the facility will be able to treat most traumas, like car accidents and shootings, and will stabilize and transfer patients it cant treat there.

Officials said this week the hospital will include dialysis care, MRI and CT diagnostic imaging equipment, a decontamination room, and a negative pressure room to treat infectious diseases. It aims to focus on behavioral health as well. The hospital will accept Medicare and Medicaid patients.
JEFFERSON CITY  TierPoint LLC, the Town and Country-based hosting and cloud computer company, announced plans Thursday to build a new $20 million data center in the Westport area of St. Louis County.

The company said it has already secured an anchor tenant for the new 23,000-square-foot facility, which is expected to be finished and open to clients in the second quarter of 2022.

TierPoint could receive up to $12.1 million in state incentives over 10 years through the Data Center Sales Tax Exemption Program. The company plans to create five new jobs. No other state incentives were used for this project, said Missouri Department of Economic Development spokeswoman Maggie Kost.

TierPoint also operates two other data centers in downtown St. Louis. In total, the company operates 40 data centers in 18 states, offering cloud, colocation and other IT infrastructure solutions to clients, ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.
History plays a strong role in many visual art exhibitions this fall.

The St. Louis Art Museum marks Missouris 200th anniversary of statehood, weaving centuries of pieces from Native Americans to Ferguson protests. Laumeier Sculpture Park hosts a project remembering the massacre of Bosnians at Srebrenica. And a show from the Smithsonian Institution visits the Kemper Art Museum with dozens of portraits of people, both alive and deceased, evoking links to political and social issues.

An immersive experience also is coming to town, with enormous projections of paintings by 19th-century French artist Vincent Van Gogh. Are digital projections artwork? They are in the case of originals by contemporary artists such as Lorna Simpson, whose Heads show up on one local museums facade. Who knows what Van Gogh would make of it, however.

2021 Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Exhibition

When Oct. 30-Feb. 12  Where International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum, 3415 Olive Street  How much $5-$10; free to members  More info iphf.org
These numbers made a steep climb throughout the summer, and have remained about the same since the middle of August, data shows.

Its still a lot. Its still tasking the health care system. But it is, at least, not going up, said BJC HealthCares Dr. Clay Dunagan during Thursdays presentation of the latest data from the St. Louis Metropolitan Pandemic Task Force.

The state advisory urges eligible residents to get vaccinated. Those who are not vaccinated should continue stay 6 feet from others in public, wear a mask when appropriate, avoid others if sick and wash hands.

Data shows just 30% of Lincoln County residents are vaccinated and 35% of Warren County residents, much lower than the 70% to 80% needed to reach herd immunity and make spread unlikely. The highly infectious delta variant that is now the dominant strain may mean that an even higher percentage is needed to reach herd immunity.

An advisory was issued Sept. 2 for counties to the south of the St. Louis metro area, bordering the more rural Jefferson County, including Washington, St. Francois and Ste. Genevieve counties.
Stephanie Rothman started at KTVI in late July, after spending two years at a Eugene, Oregon station. Currently, she is a nightside general assignment reporter at Channel 2.

She has a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Texas and a master's in journalism from Northwestern University.

Come November, the station's roster will include Amelia Mugavero, who in part owes her new gig to being delayed earlier this year at Logan Airport in Boston.

KTVI news director Audrey Prywitch said she and her husband also were waiting for a delayed flight out of Logan when they noticed the woman sitting in front of them was searching for television jobs on her laptop.

"And we happened to be looking to hire someone, so we got to talking during the delay," Prywitch said. "She just had this big personality, so I told her to apply."

"And then she sent us her (audition) reel, and it was awesome," she said.

Mugavero is a 2016 graduate of the University of Illinois, where she was the featured twirler for the Marching Illini Band. Also, she was Miss Illinois first runner-up in 2016.
BALLWIN  Fourth grade teacher Caroline Ayers was the same age as her current students, sitting in the same classroom at Henry Elementary School, when the intercom crackled the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, with unthinkable news.

Ayers said she cant recall much else from that day, but she does remember the camaraderie of the class, their impromptu kickball games and feeling safe and cared for that year by her teacher, Tom Koerner.

Its what she wants for her own students as she prepares the 9/11 anniversary lesson developed by Parkway School District administrators.

I want to make sure all these kids understand the significance of the day, why we have these memorials, Ayers said. Im going to be paying close attention to body language, facial expressions. I dont want to upset them, but want them to understand.

A whole generation has been born since 9/11. Current events have now become history. How do schools teach about the terrorist attacks 20 years later?

Mostly by helping kids understand that while we cant control that terrible things happen in the world, we can control the way we respond to them, says Jennifer Lagasse, assistant director of education programs at the National September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York.
This is one of the most egregious overreach attempts from a President I have ever witnessed, Rowden said.

Rep. Tony Lovasco, R-St. Charles County, urged Parson to call a special session of the Legislature to address the mandates.

It is our responsibility as those who are elected to protect the liberty of Missourians, Lovasco said in a letter to Parson that he shared via Twitter.

Meanwhile, speaking at the White House on Thursday, Biden sharply criticized the roughly 80 million Americans who are not yet vaccinated, despite months of availability and incentives.

Weve been patient. But our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us, he said. The unvaccinated minority can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

The requirement for large companies to mandate vaccinations or weekly testing for employees will be enacted through a forthcoming rule from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration that carries penalties of $14,000 per violation, an administration official said.
JEFFERSON CITY  The mayor of St. Louis, an economic development leader and the top elected official in St. Charles County are headlining a hearing formed to look at issues affecting the St. Louis region.

The panel of members of the Missouri Senate, which is chaired by Sen. Elaine Gannon, R-De Soto, was formed by Senate President Dave Schatz, R-Sullivan, earlier this summer to develop legislation that could benefit St. Louis.

Monday marks the first meeting of the committee. They will gather at Lindenwood University at 9 a.m. to hear from Mayor Tishaura O. Jones, St. Charles County Executive Steve Ehlmann and Jason Hall, the CEO of Greater St. Louis.

For now, Gannon said senators are seeking input from the trio to determine what their priorities should be.

The committee wants to work together to improve the region, Gannon said. At the end of the testimony we will determine the biggest issue, whether that is education, crime, health care or something else.

This committee wants to learn how to help the St. Louis region. We just want to fact-find at this point, Gannon said.
CHICAGO  A San Francisco venture capitalist with nearly $11 million in campaign contributions became the latest Republican Thursday to announce a run for the chance to unseat Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker in 2022.

Jesse Sullivan, an Illinois native who founded Alter Global in San Francisco, released a campaign video portraying himself as an outsider wholl fight to solve the states problems.

This fight it will not stop, I promise you, until this era in Illinois of high taxes, crime, corruption comes to an end, Sullivan, of Petersburg in central Illinois, says in the video.

Most of the 37-year-olds campaign donations are from California contributors, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

Other Republicans whove announced campaigns for the June primary are state Sen. Darren Bailey, former state Sen. Paul Schimpf and businessman Gary Rabine.

However, any candidate faces an uphill battle against Pritzker, whos seeking a second term and has $35 million for his campaign.
ST. CHARLES  Thousands of people lined highways, streets and overpasses along westbound Interstate 70 on Wednesday afternoon as more than 800 motorcycles and dozens of law enforcement agencies escorted Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz home to St. Charles County.

Schmitz, a 20-year-old Marine and Wentzville native, was one of the 13 U.S. service members killed late last month in a suicide bombing at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, while working to evacuate U.S. citizens and Afghan refugees as part of the military withdrawal by the U.S. from that country. All 13 have been awarded Purple Hearts.

His remains arrived at St. Louis Lambert International Airport around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, met by his family, law enforcement and the motorcycles of the Patriot Guard. The procession traveled a dozen miles west on Interstate 70 to Baue Funeral Home in St. Charles.

Among those waiting at the overpass near Convention Center Boulevard in St. Charles was a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Jesse Strickland, of Lake Saint Louis.

Strickland, who gathered with a group of veterans committee members from UAW Local 2250, said he personally knew the toll of the 20-year conflict.

I lost a few friends over there, and I know how hard it is for some people, he said.
Additional incentives would be provided for businesses that train employees in high-demand sectors for jobs that pay $24 an hour or more, said Wayne Johnston, chief of the agency's Business Assistance Bureau.

Union groups urged the commission to ensure some of the money is used to train workers to complete infrastructure projects  such as broadband, road and sewer work  funded by other federal relief money.

In other business, Eychner told the commission that the demand for the state's return-to-work bonuses was not as high as expected. The state has paid out nearly $930,000 to 774 people, with 3,600 more applications pending.

Eychner told the commission that it's clear the agency won't be paying out all of the $15 million set aside for the $1,200 bonuses, which could have provided return-to-work incentives for up to 12,500 workers.

The program offers the bonuses for people who were receiving unemployment as of May 1, returned to work between May 4 and Oct. 31 and worked at least four weeks for a single employer. Gianforte announced the incentives as Montana stopped paying an extra $300 weekly unemployment benefit.

The governor's office did not respond to a request for information on what he might suggest doing with the leftover money.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. (AP)  A 3-year-old girl struck by a stray bullet at an East St. Louis public housing complex has been declared brain dead, and her family has decided to donate her organs, the girls aunt said Wednesday.

Calyia Elizabeth Stringer was asleep in bed at her fathers apartment when a bullet struck her under the left eye, her aunt, Mariesha Samuels of Belleville, told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Calyias father and grandmother were in the apartment but were not hurt, she said.

Housing authority public safety chief Cortez Slack said people were shooting at each other around 9:30 p.m. Sunday at the Roosevelt Homes. A bullet pierced a window and hit the girl, Slack said.

East St. Louis police and the Illinois State Police are investigating the shooting but have not announced any arrests or a description of any suspects.

Calyia was taken to Cardinal Glennon Childrens Hospital in St. Louis.
During the meeting, the Pleasant Hill school board approved a mask mandate after reporting 28 positive COVID-19 cases and 180 quarantines, which is more than 7% of the districts population.

In northwestern Missouri, the South Nodaway School District closed Thursday and Friday for extended cleaning, sanitation and ventilation," according to a letter posted on the district's website. The decision was made after 49 of students were absent due to illness or quarantine, along with three staff members. The absent students accounted for more than a quarter of all students, and over half of those in grades 7-12, the letter stated.

Classes resumed Tuesday, but with masks required through Sept. 17.

Bigger schools are feeling the impact, too. Democratic St. Louis County Executive Sam Page said in a news briefing Wednesday that data from the first week of school alone showed 323 county children with the virus, 51 staff cases and 1,214 students and staff in quarantine. He said those numbers were artificially low since second-week data wasn't available, and because only 16 of the county's 23 districts reported.

These numbers reveal that the level of transmission among our children is much too high, Page said.

Missouri reported 1,690 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, bringing the pandemic total to 643,183. The state also reported 154 deaths, including 132 that occurred prior to September but had not been previously attributed to the virus. All told, 10,814 Missourians have died from COVID-19.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
SAN DIEGO (AP)  A brief Navy narrative of a fatal helicopter crash off Southern California says the aircraft experienced side-to-side vibrations that caused the main rotor to hit the deck of an aircraft carrier while landing, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

The MH-60S Seahawk fell off the deck of the USS Abraham Lincoln on Aug. 31. One crewmember was rescued and five were declared dead after a search. Five sailors on the carrier deck were injured.

The crash summary in a Naval Safety Center document, first reported by the Navy Times, did not include any information on what might have caused the vibrations.

Michael Canders, a retired military helicopter pilot who is the director of the Aviation Center at Farmingdale State College in New York, told the Navy Times that side-to-side vibrations can occur if rotor blades are out of balance.
BANGKOK (AP)  Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha sacked two Cabinet members on Thursday, including one who was widely reported to have unsuccessfully plotted for him to lose a parliamentary no-confidence vote last week.

Deputy Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao was deeply controversial even before the alleged mutiny attempt for being imprisoned for four years in Australia in the 1990s in a case involving heroin smuggling.

He has also faced other scandals, including a claim that his doctorate in public administration was fraudulently earned. He has rejected all accusations of wrongdoing.

Thammanat won his Cabinet position by being a political power broker capable of turning out the vote in northern Thailand for the governing Palang Pracharath party, and was made party general secretary in June. Because of his reputation, it isn't clear whether his dismissal will strengthen or weaken Prayuth's government.

Palang Pracharath is the military-backed party that nominated former army commander Prayuth as prime minister after the 2019 general election. Prayuth led a military government from 2014 to 2019 after staging a coup.
In short, even after just a year of data collection, its undebatable that the move to lift the helmet requirement has factored directly in deaths and injuries that didnt have to happen.

The helmet issue may seem entirely separate from the debates raging around the pandemic, but there is a common link that speaks to a wider issue: Those who believe government-backed safety measures like helmets, coronavirus vaccines and mask mandates somehow impede their freedom have a strange definition of that word.

Government has long enforced all kinds of laws designed to protect people from unnecessary risk, including speed limits, drunk-driving laws, food inspection laws and more. Is a requirement that travelers take off their shoes in the airport security line a violation of their freedom? At some level, sure. But society has agreed that keeping everyone safe is, in certain circumstances, worth what amounts to minor inconveniences.

Often lost in the pandemic debate is the fact that those who reject masks and vaccines endanger not just themselves, but those around them. The lifted helmet law also impacts others, via use of medical resources at a time when (thanks to anti-vaccination/anti-mask petulance) hospital beds are in high demand.

No one is an island. Living among other human beings requires a balance between personal choice and the greater good. Chanting freedom as a retort to any little request for societal cooperation may feel as liberating as wind through a riders hair  but as some motorcyclists have learned the hard way, that doesnt necessarily mean its the best response.
ORLANDO, Fla.  Carnival Cruise Line announced it will keep its vaccine requirement policies in place for sailings in November and December this year while also announcing more restart plans from U.S. ports including Tampa and Miami, but pushing several other restarts to 2022.

The line is advising its guests already booked that they will need to present both proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test at check-in, although it will continue to allot a number of capacity-restricted exemptions to children under 12 as well as others who cannot be vaccinated.

Also beginning Sept. 13, following new guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those COVID-19 test results need to come within 48 hours of sailing, which is up from the previous 72-hour window. So if a person is sailing on a Saturday, the test has to have been taken on Thursday or Friday, with results back in time before departure. The cost of that testing falls on the cruisers.
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Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.
On August 12 Pakistan test fired one of its Ghaznavi (Hatf 3) solid-fuel ballistic missiles. This was considered a training event, something Pakistan does with its ballistic missiles on a regular basis to make sure they still work as well as to test the capabilities of the crews and publicize Pakistans ballistic missile technology. Most Pakistani ballistic missiles are transported and fired from a large TEL (transporter erector launcher) truck. This makes it difficult for India to find and destroy before it can be used in wartime. All these missiles can carry a nuclear or non-nuclear warhead. That is one reason why there are far fewer TELs for each model missile. Pakistan has a stockpile of nuclear warheads for its larger ballistic missiles, but does not want or expect a nuclear war with India. The non-nuclear, usually just high-explosives, can be used against India or more likely against Afghanistan, now that the Americans are gone and the Taliban are trying to reduce Pakistani meddling with Afghanistan.

For such a small and economically weak country Pakistan has many ballistic missile types in service. Their current defense budget is $8.8 billion, a six percent increase from 2020. Defense consumes 16 percent of the government budget and 2.3 percent of GDP. Pakistan uses deceptive budget practices, like not including military pensions and research efforts in the defense budget. To compare Pakistani spending to other nations, you must apply the same accounting standards. Doing that increases the official defense spending by 50 percent. The reality is that the military gets about a quarter of the government budget and over three percent of GDP. The military also owns a growing portion of the economy and Pakistan is often described as an army with a country attached.

Decades of large defense budgets have made it possible for Pakistan to develop, manufacture and maintain a large and diverse ballistic missile force that includes;

Hatf 1 entered service in 1992 with a range of 70 kilometers and was upgraded three years later with a better rocket motor and range of 100 kilometers.

Hatf 2 (Abdali) entered service in 2002 with a range of 150-190 kilometers, later upgraded to 280-450 kilometers depending on warhead size. Only uses non-nuclear warheads. Apparently based on the Chinese M11 missile which Pakistan bought a few of to study and improve the design of Pakistani solid fuel ballistic missiles.

Hatf 9 (Nasr) entered service in 2013 with a range of 90 kilometers and carried on a TEL that holds four of these 1.2-ton missiles.

Hatf 3 (Ghaznavi) entered service in 2004 with a range of 300 kilometers.

Hatf 4 (Shaheen-I) entered service in 2003 with a range of 750 kilometers, later upgraded to 1,000 kilometers. Weighing ten tons it is launched from a TEL or from fixed locations.

Hatf 5 (Ghauri) entered service in 2003 with a range of 1,400 kilometers and later upgraded to 1,800 kilometers. Uses a liquid fuel motor based on North Korean technology. A few are still in service as part of a program to develop longer range ballistic missiles.

Ababeel entered service in 2017 with a range of 2,200 kilometers and can carry a warhead with three or more nuclear warheads. Only a few were built and are used mainly to develop longer range ballistic missiles.

Hatf 6 (Shaheen 2) entered service in 2015 with a range of 2,500 kilometers and over 40 have been built. A Shaheen 3 version is still in development with a range of 3,200 kilometers.

Ghaznavi and other short-range solid fuel missiles are basically replacements for older liquid fuel Scud missiles. Solid fuel makes it possible to quickly launch the missile. Solid fuel missiles are also cheaper to maintain and use smaller crews that do not require a lot of training.

Pakistan has also developed and put into several cruise missiles since 2007. These have ranges of up to 750 kilometers. India has acquired new air defense systems with some BMD (ballistic missile defense) capability as well as being more capable detecting the low and slow cruise missiles. India does not have enough BMD systems to protect more than a few major cities. Pakistan still has a lot of unprotected Indian targets for the ballistic missiles.
Russia warplanes carried out over a hundred airstrikes in the last week against Islamic terrorist targets in northwest Syria (Latakia, Idlib and Homs provinces) plus ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) targets in eastern Syria. Russian warplanes are based in Latakia, where Russia has built a large airbase on land provided by the Syrian government on a long-term lease. Russian military aircraft have been active in Syria since 2015 and by 2021 had flown over 40,000 sorties. Most of these sorties were non-combat operations by helicopters, military transports and combat support aircraft carrying out reconnaissance missions seeking out targets and keeping track of enemy, and friendly activity on the ground. Russia does not have many UAVs for recon or ground attack. Using manned aircraft for any sorties is expensive, the combat sorties are just more expensive because they deliberately expend most of their cargo.

The Assad government wants the Russians to stick around to deal with the long-term threat from Islamic terror and secular rebels. The airstrikes and maintaining an airbase and nearby port facility are expensive but easier to hide in the budget than Russians getting killed in Syria. Nearly all the Russian military personnel in Syria are volunteers or military contractors, who are also more expensive than sending conscripts, which still comprise over half the armed forces. Families of conscripts are unhappy with conscription in general and get agitated if their sons are sent overseas and even more angry, and outspoken locally and on the Internet, if their conscript son is wounded or killed overseas.

The current Russian government believes expensive foreign military operations, like the ones in Syria and Libya will eventually pay for themselves by generating more exports and lucrative foreign deals. So far, this strategy has been running at a loss and the situations in Syria and Libya still have uncertain outcomes for Russia. In many respects foreign military interventions in Syria and Libya have also caused more problems with existing allies.

In Syria, Russia and Turkey are supposed to be Iranian allies but are less frequently acting the part. Russia sent forces to Syria in 2015 to help preserve its old Cold War era ally the Assads. This was done for the benefit of Russia, not Syria, Iran or Turkey. Russia was the second foreign power to come to the aid of the Assads. Since 2012 Iran has been helping keep their old Shia ally, the Assads, in power. Iran had more ambitious goals, as in increasing its threat against Israel once the rebels were defeated. A year after the Russians showed up, the Turks sent in troops, but used locally recruited Syrian mercenaries to do most of the fighting and dying. The Turks used the same mercenaries in Libya, where the Russians are the enemy rather than an ally.

The Russians hoped to rebuild the Syria military and get most of their own troops and equipment out. Reviving the Syrian military sufficiently to allow the Russians to leave proved impossible. The only alternative was hiring local or foreign mercenaries, which the Iranians, Turks, Americans and Syrians all relied on in Syria. The pre-2011 Syrian military was gone when the Russians arrived and that was obvious when the Russians had time to examine the situation in detail. Russia responded by concentrating on improving the Russian weapons and equipment Syrian forces already had while providing air and artillery support for the remaining Syrian troops. This made it possible for the meager Assad forces to defend themselves, their families and communities. This was all Assad supporters really wanted to do after several years of civil war. Eventually Russia began hiring some Syrian mercenaries as well, if only to help eliminate the last remnant of ISIL in eastern Syria. Russia was content to let the Israelis keep the Iranian forces busy.

For centuries Turkey, Iran and Russia were all antagonists, not allies, and their seeming alliance in Syria was largely a mirage. These historical adversaries still have unresolved disputes worth going to war over. All three of these allies continue scheming against each other in Syria and elsewhere. Russia notes that Turkey is selling weapons to Ukraine, where Russian forces are still at war with Ukraine. Turkey is also trying to repair its damaged relationship with NATO, and that means reneging on weapons purchases from Russia. There have been other forms of anti-Russian behavior that must be tolerated by Russia to keep the alliance with Turkey in Syria viable. Russia is sticking it to Iran by backing Israel and the efforts of Arab states to replace Iran as the protector of the Assad government.

If Islamic terrorists remain in Idlib, ISIL in the east and Iranians near the Israeli border, the Syrian civil war will not be over. The only ones who cannot walk away from this are the Assads, Turkey and Israel. Russia depicts itself as the good guy interested only in peace and prosperity. That leaves Iran as the real interloper and troublemaker. Dealing with Iran has been a headache for Turkey and Russia for centuries while the Arabs have several thousand years of bad memories created by Iran. In other words, Iran is difficult to deal with, something everyone can agree on. That is a common problem, not an incentive to violently gang up on Iran.

Now Iran has another threat on their eastern border as the Pakistan-backed Afghan Taliban took advantage of a disorganized American withdrawal and grabbed control of most of the country. Local anti-Taliban militias did not respond immediately but after about a week the Taliban had to deal with videos showing violent and non-violent reactions to the second effort by the Taliban and Pakistan to gain control of areas they were unable to conquer before 2001. Iran is under pressure from Iranians to defend the 20 percent of Afghans who are Shia. Iran is also not having much success in getting economic sanctions lifted and that means more protests inside Iran over the growing poverty rate and declining living standards for everyone. Russia does not expect to gain anything from a Taliban revival in Afghanistan and fears the pro-Russian military government in Pakistan, which has been buying a lot more Russian weapons and other goods lately, will lose control in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Since 2001 the Pakistani military has made itself unpopular in Afghanistan and India as well as Pakistan and even the UN.

Russia no longer borders Afghanistan. That was gone when the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, three years after the last Russian troops left Afghanistan. While there for a decade, Russian forces suffered 15,000 dead, many more maimed and more cash than the Soviet Union could afford. Most of those 15,000 dead were conscripts, as were most of the troops sent to Afghanistan. That had a lasting impact on Russia. While the Russians left Afghanistan, Afghan problems, in the form of heroin and opium, are still a problem for Russia and the former Soviet regions that became independent and now border Afghanistan. With the return of Taliban control comes the return of sanctuaries for Islamic terrorists, including those from Russia and former parts of the Soviet Union.

In response to this Taliban revival, Russia announced joint military exercises between Russian forces and those of the three new nations Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan that now border Afghanistan plus Kyrgyzstan, which borders China and Tajikistan. Russia has maintained close military, economic and diplomatic ties with the stans who are suffering from the Afghan drug cartels that used their countries as markets for the drugs as well as a smuggling route to other parts of Eurasia. Now more Islamic terrorists from Taliban Afghanistan will be added. Russia and the stans bordering Afghanistan also stand ready to support the armed opposition to the Taliban, just like before. That cooperation has apparently already begun, without any official announcements.

Worse Memories

In the Russian Far East (Khabarovsk) there was a major uprising at a prison labor camp in the last week. There were dead and wounded among prisoners as well as guards. The violence escalated and an army special forces unit in the region was called in to get the situation under control. The violence began as a fight between inmate factions but this time it escalated into what looked like an uprising by most of the prisoners. Prisoner gang violence is common and rarely makes it into the state-controlled mass media. Uprisings are rare and news usually gets out despite the return of censorship. In this case the rebellion was put down and further speculation discouraged. Since 2000 the Russian government has been dominated by former Soviet era KGB officers who promised to restore public safety and take care of the growing number of retired, especially the veterans of World War II. They did that much, but at a cost many did not expect. This KGB revival was not popular and many Russians were openly opposed to it and had to be intimidated or removed from public view. There were still KGB old timers around who remembered how to run prison camps. Dealing with the growing number of dissidents, plus the uncooperative criminals the KGB also jailed meant a partial return to the old ways. That's what the Soviet era Gulag (the Russian acronym for the prison camp system, or "The Chief Administration of Corrective Labor Camps and Colonies") was created for. It gets the troublemakers off the streets, permanently, as needed. Using the term Gulag can get you sent to the new version that is less lethal but still years of hard labor and treatment that would be considered criminal in most Western nations. Like the old Gulag, it is more punishment than solution to popular opposition to the government. This is an unwelcome reminder of the role the original Gulag played in bringing down the Soviet Union.

September 8, 2021: The Russian national security advisor visited India to confer with Indian counterpart and announced that both countries agreed on the danger Taliban control of Afghanistan is to the region and called on Pakistan to halt its support for the Taliban and halt its support for other Islamic terrorist groups. Russia had tried to improve its relations with Pakistan but found China had a veto on who Pakistan could play with. China is better insulated from any Islamic terrorism the Taliban seek to export. China has also been more successful at keeping the Afghan heroin and opium out.

September 7, 2021: In northwest Syria (Idlib province) Russia carried out more airstrikes in the de-escalation zone that nearby Islamic terrorist rebels are supposed to leave alone but dont. Turkey does not object because after the Islamic terrorists violated several ceasefire deals the Turks are content to let the Russians bomb the Idlib opposition. Syrian artillery often joins in. The de-escalation zones established in early 2017 by Russia, Turkey, Iran and the Assad government were seen as a ploy (according to some Idlib Islamic terror groups) to make it easier to defeat the rebel forces. By the terms of this de-escalation deal the zones would be no-fly zones for all aircraft except those from Russia, Turkey and Syria. The Assads and their supporters (Russia, Iran and Turkey) would establish checkpoints around the zones to control ground access. This would, in theory, allow emergency aid to get in (or be blocked) and eliminate air attacks on civilians. Rebels later pointed out that during previous ceasefire agreements the Russians and Assads ignored the terms and attacked rebels and civilians claiming they were reacting to rebel violence. In the case of the four de-escalation zones thats exactly what happened frequently. One aspect of the de-escalation zone agreement that was honored was safe passage for rebels and their civilian supporters who surrendered and were transported to Idlib province. Renewals of the new ceasefires didnt last long and within hours there were some violations. That was because the Russian and Syrian airstrikes are continuing, usually at civilians and Islamic terrorists close to the de-escalation zones. The airstrikes, and less frequent artillery (cannon and rockets) fire has been going on for several years. There have been a lot of civilian casualties, because the Assads have found that attacking hostile civilians forces them to move and often leave the country. This is considered a war crime but that has never stopped the Assads, who have been using these tactics since the 1980s.

September 5, 2021: In Sudan the government revealed that it had been holding over a ton of Russian weapons and military equipment it had found on an Ethiopian Airlines flight from Moscow. This seizure took place a month after the Sudan dictator Omar Bashir was overthrown. Sudan has been ruled by a pro-West transition council since then and has been kept busy dealing with a lot of the internal problems decades of Basher left behind. Elections are to be held soon and the illegal Russian military cargo appears to be one of the less critical items on the clean up list.

September 2, 2021: Russia is willing to settle its differences with Ukraine if Russia keeps Crimea and Ukraine does not join NATO. To most Ukrainians giving up Crimea is possible but staying out of NATO is not. Ukraine is another foreign war Russia cannot afford and is now openly admitting it. They will have to surrender the hostility to NATO, which was an invention of the current KGB government to create a foreign threat that was scary but not real. In the same spirit Russia tried to scare Ukraine by pointing that what happened to American support for the Afghan government could happen to Ukraine. Many older Ukrainians served, as conscripts, in Afghanistan during the 1980s and conclude that Russia is still spinning the news to suit their needs, not provide an accurate assessment of what is going on. Ukraine has also been on the receiving end of Afghan heroin and now expects more of it, as does Russia and the other former parts of the Soviet Union closer to Afghanistan.

August 24, 2021: In the northwest Syria (Idlib province) Russia airstrikes and Syrian artillery fire have been used almost daily against Islamic terrorist rebels seen moving towards the forbidden de-escalation zone. Russian airstrikes also hit targets inside rebels controlled Idlib, trying to disrupt factions that are believed to be planning attacks against the Russian airbase in adjacent Latakia province.

In the southwest (Daraa province) weeks of attacks on a rebel enclave ended when the rebels agreed to leave the area and be moved north to Idlib province. At least thats the plan Russia is trying to make happen. The rebels dont trust the Assad forces but the Russians have Syrian mercenaries and Moslem Russian troops to assist negotiations and reassure the rebels. Russian troops will also supervise the surrender and movement of rebels and civilian supporters to another area, apparently Idlib province in the northwest. The alternative was more artillery and airstrikes and the deaths of civilian supporters as well as armed rebels. The Syrians and Russians have been working to gain the support of the largely Sunni and Druze civilian population along the border in (from west to east); Quneitra, Daraa and Suwayda provinces. This is a joint effort to block Iranian efforts to gain the support of the border population. Total population of these provinces in 2011 was 1.4 million but only about 20 percent of that was on or near the border. After the 2011 Civil War began much of the Sunni population fled. How much remains on the border is unclear but is apparently at least 100,000. Only Queneitra and Daraa border Israel.

August 20, 2021: In central Syria (Homs province) and further south near the capital (Damascus) Israeli airstrikes hit several Iranian targets. At least four Iranian mercenaries were killed in Damascus. There were a lot of people in the Damascus region, including foreign reporters, who got out their cell phones and took videos of action. This involved Israeli air-to-ground missiles hitting their targets while Syrian anti-aircraft missiles were launched but not hitting anything. Russia later reported the air defense systems they provided to Syria had again destroyed most of the Israeli missiles.

August 10, 2021: In northwest Syria (Idlib province) Russia carried out eleven airstrikes against Islamic terrorist targets.

August 7, 2021: In eastern Syria (Deir Ezzor province), numerous Israeli air strikes against Iranian bases outside Mayadeen city have led Iran to bring in air-defense radars and mobile SAM (Surface-to Air Missile) units to the area. This is an effort to discourage Israel from continuing their airstrikes. The Iranians have also installed a radar for detecting low flying UAVs. Syrian and Russian air defense systems have been unable to stop the Israeli attacks and now the Iranians are seeking to show the Syrians and Russians what effective air defense is. The Israeli response has been more airstrikes. Iran is trying to turn this area, just west of the Euphrates River, as a major logistics and training center for its Syrian operations against Israel. So far that effort has provided more targets for Israel to attack and those airstrikes are increasing.
How to Design a Hybrid Classroom

During the Video Learning 2021 panel at Streaming Media East Connect, Scott Nelson, director of instructional media in the office of distance education and elearning at Ohio State University, forced me to rethink my views on the hybrid classroom. Our friendly difference of opinion was about whether the hybrid classroom should be designed "remote student first" or "in-person student first." I was on team "in-person," believing that generally, instruction should either be all remote or all in-person and that if forced to do both, we should minimally accommodate the remote students with a reasonably representative video feed until they can join the class in person. Nelson suggested that teachers "use their in-person class as a studio space for their online students." There's a compelling case for this "live studio audience" approach to remote-first that especially makes good sense for large lecture halls, where the in-person cohort would benefit from well-planned dynamic projections alternating between relevant illustrations and IMAG camera shots.

Planning for hybrid work arrangements and small videoconferencing setups further reinforced that my original thinking was wrong. Ultimately, this is a nonbinary design choice that has a spectrum of options between extremes, with the "fly-on-the-wall" experience for remote students at one end and something like a call center for in-person attendees at the other. For an example of the latter extreme, every student or meeting participant might sit around a table with his or her own device running the Zoom call on mute, with a videoconferencing speakerphone system handling the audio for everyone on-site. These setups enable everyone to focus attention on the current speaker, either in-person or remote, rarely relegating anyone to second-class status by the technology. What is best for most circumstances falls in between the two extremes. Rather than framing the design thinking around which audience you choose to prioritize, consider instead how to be effectively inclusive to each and both.

In making that design decision, the key factors are why you're doing hybrid in the first place and what the expectations are for both audiences. For schools, the driving factor may be temporarily imposed by a cautious local health district enforcing occupancy limits or structurally imposed by shortages in either teachers or classroom space. Although the presidents of both the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers changed course at the start of the summer and began persuading their memberships to feel safe going back to school in the fall, many teachers may insist on teaching remotely to students in the physical classroom. The resulting shortage could potentially be addressed by accommodating the teacher's request with a combination of strong remote-participant inclusivity and on-site teacher's aides. Last decade, the California state legislature threatened reduced funding for state universities because of students failing to graduate on time. This graduation delay was the result of students not being able to register for required courses due to enrollment limits. The demand for schools to increase capacity ultimately led to the California Promise Program. It reached a major statutory reporting deadline on July 1, 2021, in which the flexibility of online courses will no doubt play a critical contributing role.

An unfortunate motivator for hybridand one that needs to be planned for by elementary schools until children younger than 12 can be vaccinatedis that a student must remain home for a few weeks due to either illness or contact tracing. Reasonable expectations call for a short-term, improvised solution (or just having the homework brought home by a friend, as was done in my youth, when videoconferencing was a science fiction trope rather than part of daily life). In addition, students with certain disabilities may find that remote learning better fits their learning needs. In some districts, a hybrid teaching model may be the best way to accommodate these students' Individualized Education Programs.

Clearly, there are legitimate reasons for maximizing enrollments and for hybrid instructional setups in general, both of which benefit students. The adoption of online and hybrid learning by traditional schools is not greed-driven, but rather the best way to satisfy demand for education that could not be met through traditional methods.

Once you've determined why you're doing hybrid and whether the expectations are for a short-term solution or are part of a long-term strategy, two design tasks remain. One is to craft a policy for how you intend to combine the degree of inclusivity for both audiences in the classroom, seminar, or faculty meeting with respect for the attendees' privacy. The other is to provision the gear for the meeting space to implement that policy. For short-term solutions, that should be surplus equipment from the initial pandemic response. For long-term strategies, schools can afford to be much more creative.

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / September 8, 2021 / Golden Dawn Minerals Inc., (TSXV:GOM)(FRANKFURT:3G8C)(OTC PINK:GDMRF), ("Golden Dawn" or the "Company"), announces that the board of directors of the Company has appointed WDM Chartered Professional Accountants Chartered Professional Accountants as the Company's new auditor, replacing Davidson and Company LLP, Chartered Professional Accountant.

The Company has filed a Notice of Change of Auditor in respect of this change under its profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

On behalf of the Board of GOLDEN DAWN MINERALS INC.

Per: "Christopher R. Anderson"

Christopher R. Anderson

Chief Executive Officer

For further information, please contact:

Golden Dawn Minerals Inc. - Corporate Communications:

Tel: 604-488-3900

Email: Office@goldendawnminerals.com

Forward-Looking Statement Cautions:

This news release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, relating to, among other things, preliminary plans for a consolidation of the Company's Shares. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts; they are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "aims," "potential," "goal," "objective," "prospective," and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "can," "could" or "should" occur, or are those statements, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made and they involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Consequently, there can be no assurances that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Except to the extent required by applicable securities laws and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements if management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. Factors that could cause future results to differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements include the possibility that the TSX Venture Exchange will not approve the proposed share consolidation, and that the Company may not be able to raise sufficient additional capital to continue its business. The reader is urged to refer to the Company's reports, publicly available through the Canadian Securities Administrators' System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) at www.sedar.com for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of securities of the Company in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The Company's securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Golden Dawn Minerals Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kanen Wealth Management, LLC (together with its affiliates, Kanen), a stockholder of 1847 Goedeker Inc. (NYSE: GOED) (Goedeker or the Company), with an ownership interest of approximately 5.5% of the Companys outstanding common shares, today announced its nomination of five (5) highly-qualified and independent candidates for election to the Companys Board of Directors (the Board) at the upcoming Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the Annual Meeting) scheduled for November 10, 2021.



David Kanen, the managing member of Kanen Wealth Management, stated, We were pleased with the Companys announcement on September 3, 2021, naming Albert Fouerti Chief Executive Officer and Ellery Roberts Executive Chairman of the Board. While this marks a positive step for the Company, we believe that Messrs. Fouerti and Roberts will require an enhanced Board with deeply relevant skillsets to support them in their pursuits of growth and value creation at the Company. The Company, itself, seems to acknowledge the need to strengthen the Board. We have nominated a slate of five highly-qualified independent directors. To be clear, we are not looking to replace either Messrs. Fouerti or Roberts. Rather, our objective in nominating this highly-qualified slate of director candidates is to ensure that a fully aligned, shareholder-minded Board is in place with directors who have directly relevant skillsets to help oversee the next phase of the Companys transformation. We appreciate the dialogue we have had to date with management and the Board of Goedeker and remain open to continuing an open and constructive dialogue regarding a reconstitution of the Board.

Biographies of Kanens Nominees (in alphabetical order):

David L. Kanen (age 55)

Has served as the Managing Member of Kanen Wealth Management, LLC, a registered investment advisor and as President and Portfolio Manager of Philotimo Fund, LP, a hedge fund focused on small-cap value and activist, each since 2016.

Mr. Kanen served as an independent advisor at Aegis Capital, Inc., a full service securities broker-dealer, from 2012 to 2016.

Mr. Kanen served as a retail and institutional financial advisor at A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc., a full service securities broker-dealer, from 1992 to 2004.

Mr. Kanen has served on the Board of Build a Bear Workshop Inc., a global retail company, since July 2019. Previously, Mr. Kanen served on the Boards of other public companies, including BBQ Holdings, Inc. (f/k/a Famous Daves of America, including as Chairman of the Board from February 2019 to May 2021, and CarParts.com, Inc. (f/k/a U.S. Autoparts Network, Inc.), from January 2019 to June 2020.

Mr. Kanen received a B.S. in Marketing from Jacksonville University.



Nanxi Liu (age 31)

Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Enplug, Inc., a digital signage software company, since 2012.

Ms. Liu has served as the Chief Financial Officer and Co-Founder of Nanoly Bioscience, Inc., a biotechnology company, since 2011 and she has served as a Partner at Xfactor Ventures, LP, a venture capital fund, since September, 2018.

Independent Director of CarParts.com, Inc. (f/k/a U.S. Autoparts Network, Inc.), since July 2020.

Ms. Liu has served as a member of the California New Motor Vehicle Board, Department of Motor Vehicles, a judicial body overseeing motor vehicle industry related disputes in the State of California, and as a Member of the Board of Advisors of Covington Capital Management, an investment advisor.

Ms. Liu served on the Board of Kindred Biosciences, Inc., a veterinary biopharmaceutical company, from February 2021 to August 2021.

Ms. Liu received her B.S. in Business Administration and B.A. in Political Economy from the University of California, Berkeley.

David Meniane (age 38)

Chief Operating and Financial Officer at CarParts.com, Inc. (f/k/a U.S. Autoparts Network, Inc.), since March 2019.

Mr. Meniane served as Executive Vice President of L.A. Libations, LLC, a start-up accelerator for consumer packaged goods companies in North America, from August 2016 to March 2019.

Chief Executive Officer of Victorias Kitchen, LLC, a specialty beverage company, from October 2011 through its acquisition by Hispanica International, Inc. in October 2017.

Served as Chief Financial Officer of Aflalo & Harkham Investments, a commercial real estate investment partnership, from 2012 to 2013.

Mr. Meniane holds a B.S. in Accounting and a M.B.T. from the University of Southern California and is a certified C.P.A.



Mehran Nia (age 56)

Senior Consultant for CarParts.com, Inc. (f/k/a U.S. Autoparts Network, Inc.), an e-commerce car parts company that he Co-Founded, since April 2021.

Prior to that, Mr. Nia served as CarParts.com, Inc.s Chief Executive Officer and President from 1995 to 2007. In addition, Mr. Nia served on the Board of CarParts.com, Inc. from 1995 to 2007, and from May 2018 to April 2021.

Mr. Nia also served on the Board of Mylife.com, Inc., an e-commerce company, from 2014 to 2018.

Mr. Via studied biology at San Diego State University.

L. William Varner, Jr. (age 70)

Chief Executive Officer and on the Board at Select Interior Concepts, Inc., a distributor of interior building products, since June 2020.

Served as Chief Executive Officer of United Subcontractors, Inc., an installed building materials company, from July 2012 to May 2018.

Previously, Mr. Varner served as President and Chief Executive Officer and served on the Board of Aquilex Corporation, a specialty service provider to the energy sector, from 2004 to 2012.

Mr. Varner has served on the Board of Acousti Engineering Company of Florida, an Ardian portfolio company.

Mr. Varner has served as President for several global businesses in various equipment/component manufacturing and service industries. Previously, Mr. Varner served on the Board of Bartlett Holdings, Inc. (n/k/a BHI Energy), an industrial maintenance solutions company, from January 2011 to July 2017. Also, Mr. Varner served on the Board of The Identity Group Holdings Corporation, a signage solutions company, from March 2012 to June 2014.

Mr. Varner received his B.A. from The Citadel.

About Kanen Wealth Management, LLC

Kanen Wealth Management, LLC is a Florida-based investment adviser with a focused and differentiated fundamental approach to investing primarily in publicly traded U.S. companies. Kanen invests in deeply undervalued companies and actively engages with management teams and boards of directors to identify and execute on opportunities to unlock value for the benefit of all stockholders.

Investor contacts:

David L. Kanen, (631) 863-3100

www.kanenadvisory.com

Certain Information Concerning the Participants

CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING THE PARTICIPANTS

Kanen Wealth Management, LLC, together with the other participants named herein (collectively, Kanen), intends to file a preliminary proxy statement and accompany WHITE proxy card with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to be used to solicit votes for the election of its slate of highly-qualified director nominees at the 2021 annual meeting of stockholders of 1847 Goedeker Inc., a Delaware corporation (the Company).

KANEN STRONGLY ADVISES ALL SHAREHOLDERS OF THE COMPANY TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT AND OTHER PROXY MATERIALS AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. SUCH PROXY MATERIALS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT NO CHARGE ON THE SEC'S WEB SITE AT HTTP://WWW.SEC.GOV. IN ADDITION, THE PARTICIPANTS IN THIS PROXY SOLICITATION WILL PROVIDE COPIES OF THE PROXY STATEMENT WITHOUT CHARGE, WHEN AVAILABLE, UPON REQUEST. REQUESTS FOR COPIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO THE PARTICIPANTS' PROXY SOLICITOR.

The participants in the proxy solicitation are anticipated to be Philotimo Fund, LP (Philotimo), Philotimo Focused Growth and Income Fund, a series of World Funds Trust, a Delaware statutory trust (PHLOX), Kanen Wealth Management, LLC (KWM), David L. Kanen, Nanxi Liu, David Meniane, Mehran Nia and L. William Varner, Jr. As of the date hereof, Philotimo directly owns 3,061,870 shares of common stock par value $0.0001 per share, of the Company (the Common Stock). As of the date hereof, PHLOX directly owns 500,000 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, KWM may be deemed to beneficially own 5,663,736 shares of Common Stock, consisting of (i) 3,061,870 shares of Common Stock directly held by Philotimo, (ii) 500,000 shares of Common Stock directly held by PHLOX and (iii) 2,101,866 shares of Common Stock directly held by KWM. As of the date hereof, Mr. Kanen may be deemed to beneficially own 5,873,123 shares of Common Stock, consisting of (i) the 5,663,736 shares of Common Stock that may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Kanen Wealth Management, LLC (KWM) and (ii) 209,387 shares of Common Stock directly held by Mr. Kanen. KWM, as the general partner of Philotimo, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of Common Stock directly held by Philotimo and as the investment manager of PHLOX, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of Common Stock directly held by PHLOX. Mr. Kanen, as the managing member of KWM, may be deemed to beneficially own the shares of Common Stock directly held by KWM, Philotimo and PHLOX. As of the date hereof, Mr. Meniane directly owns 10,000 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, Mr. Nia directly owns 664,072 shares of Common Stock. As of the date hereof, none of Ms. Liu or Mr. Varner owns any shares of Common Stock.
(Reuters) -China's largest online audio platform Ximalaya said on Thursday it had decided not to proceed with its plans for an initial public offering (IPO) in the United States.

The move comes after Reuters reported in May that China was pressing Ximalaya to drop its plans to list in the United States and go for Hong Kong instead, showing how authorities are seeking to further tighten their grip over private media and internet businesses.

Medical data group LinkDoc Technology Ltd in July became the first Chinese company to shelve plans for an IPO in the United States due to Beijing's clampdown on overseas listings by domestic firms.

Ximalaya, backed by China's Tencent Holdings, had filed for an IPO in April.

Chinese and U.S. regulators alike have been tightening their grip on U.S. listings of Chinese tech firms over the past few months.

Last month, Reuters reported that China was framing rules to ban https://www.reuters.com/technology/china-plans-ban-us-ipos-data-heavy-tech-firms-wsj-2021-08-27 internet companies whose data poses potential security risks from listing outside the country.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) also began issuing new disclosure requirements to Chinese companies who are looking to list in New York, in an effort to boost investor awareness on the risks involved, Reuters reported https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/exclusive-sec-gives-chinese-companies-new-requirements-us-ipo-disclosures-2021-08-23 in August.

(Reporting by Noor Zainab Hussain and Sohini Podder in Bengaluru; Editing by Amy Caren Daniel)
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London, UK, September 08, 2021 McapMediaWire Advisory Excellence is pleased to introduce Carl Ljungdahl and Grant Thornton Sweden to our network. Carl is a Swedish corporate income tax adviser who has advised on 500+ Swedish and global transactions in relation to tax due diligence and tax structuring.

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TICKERS: LGD; LGDTF

Source: Streetwise Reports (9/9/21)

A Haywood Securities report noted that "initial 2021 reverse circulation results highlight deep value in Liberty Gold's asset portfolio."



In a Sept. 9 research note, Haywood Securities analyst Geordie Mark reported that the first drill results from Liberty Gold Corp.'s (LGD:TSX; LGDTF:OTCQB) Goldstrike in Utah bode well for the project.

They "demonstrate the potential to not only derisk the asset through migration to prefeasibility analysis but also the concurrent potential to grow the defined asset through the drilling campaign and potentially augment the value of this under-rated asset," Mark wrote.

Further, noted Mark, additional exploration work could enhance project economics by altering the project resource grade, given the high-grade mineralization the drill bit recently hit. The current Goldstrike resource, as updated in 2018, amounts to 925,000 ounces (925 Koz) of 0.5 g/t Au in the Indicated category and 296 Koz of 0.47 g/t Au in the Inferred category.

The Goldstrike preliminary economic assessment (PEA), Mark indicated, outlined an open-pit to heap-leach operation producing about 715 Koz annually throughout the mine's 7.5-year life at an all-in sustaining cost of US$793 per ounce. Using a US$1,700 per ounce gold price, the net present value discounted at 5% for the Goldstrike operation was forecasted to be US$292 million and the internal rate of return, 52.4%.

Mark reviewed the just reported maiden reverse circulation drill results from Goldstrike, which are for 17 holes over 2,216 meters (2,216m) placed in the historic Hamburg pit, part of the main zone from which most of the project resource came) and the Beavertail deposit, southwest of Hamburg. Some highlight intercepts are from three holes.

From Hamburg, hole PGS 748 returned 22.9mm of 2.09 g/t Au, including 9.1m of 4.36 g/t Au. PGS 754 showed 15.2m of 3.6 g/t Au, including 6.1m of 7.75 g/t Au.

At the Beavertail target, hole PGS 739 demonstrated 12.2m of 1.02 g/t Au, including 1.5m of 6.01 g/t Au.

Turning to Liberty Gold's Black Pine project in Idaho, Mark reiterated that the initial resource estimate compiled for it in July "furnishes an initial proof of concept of the Black Pine deposit, which we view capable of eventually supporting a multimillion-ounce, low-cost, heap-leach project in a tier one jurisdiction."

Upcoming catalysts for the exploration company include additional drill results from both Goldstrike and Black Pine as well as a Black Pine PEA, expected in Q3/21.

Haywood has a Buy rating and a CA$2.75 per share target price on Liberty Gold, the shares of which are trading today at around CA$1.22 per share.

Disclosures:

1) Doresa Banning compiled this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an independent contractor. She or members of her household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. She or members of her household are paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None.

2) The following companies mentioned in this article are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: Liberty Gold Corp. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees.

3) Comments and opinions expressed are those of the specific experts and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

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5) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the decision to publish an article until three business days after the publication of the article. The foregoing prohibition does not apply to articles that in substance only restate previously published company releases. As of the date of this article, officers and/or employees of Streetwise Reports LLC (including members of their household) own securities of Liberty Gold Corp., a company mentioned in this article.
Mark Gooch, an Air Force airman, was arrested on April 21, 2020, in the death of Sasha Krause, a Mennonite woman whose body was found off a forest road in northern Arizona. (Maricopa County Sheriffs Office)

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.  An Arizona judge ruled Thursday that expert testimony on cellphone data will be allowed in the case of a U.S. Air Force airman who is accused of kidnapping and killing a Mennonite woman.

Authorities used the data and other records to link Mark Gooch to the shooting death of Sasha Krause, 27. She disappeared from her church community outside Farmington, New Mexico, in January 2020, as she was gathering material for a Sunday school class.

Her body was found more than a month later in a forest clearing outside Flagstaff, Arizona, with her hands bound by duct tape.

Goochs attorney, Bruce Griffen, sought to prevent testimony from a man who reviewed cellphone and other data from testifying at Goochs trial thats scheduled to start later this month. Griffen argued that Sev Dishman doesnt have enough experience in working particularly with data from AT&T to say with precision where Gooch was when Krause disappeared.

Griffen also noted a warning with the data that says it cannot be relied on to establish location.

Coconino County Superior Court Judge Cathleen Brown Nichols denied the defense motion. She said Dishman established he is an expert through work with his current employer and his time in the military.

Prosecutor Ammon Barker said the cellphone data lines up with Goochs financial records, surveillance video and Goochs admission that he was in northwestern New Mexico around the time Krause went missing. The jury would have a hard time interpreting the data without Dishmans guidance, Barker said.

Where the defendant was traveling and where he was at certain times and dates is going to be crucial to this case, Barker said.

Dishman, a retired Army sergeant major, said he has consulted or reviewed cellphone data records for law enforcement hundreds of times in the U.S. and teaches courses on the technology for investigative purposes. He agreed that the cellphone data shouldnt be considered alone.

Im using this as bread-crumb activity, he said.

The motion was one of several that Brown Nichols took up during a hearing Thursday that will continue Friday afternoon. She didnt immediately rule on all of the requests, including one from the defense to determine whether statements that Gooch made to a detective were lawfully obtained. She said she needed more time to listen to the interview.

Brown Nichols denied a request from Barker to admit evidence that Gooch might have targeted Mennonites in burglaries as a teenager in Wisconsin. A childhood friend of Gooch testified Thursday that he didnt recall Gooch saying he disliked Mennonites.

Gooch and Krause didnt know each other, and prosecutors arent sure why he would have targeted her. Luke Air Force Base where Gooch was stationed in metropolitan Phoenix is about a seven-hour drive from Farmington.

Gooch told authorities he traveled to northwestern New Mexico and to two Mennonite communities near Phoenix because he craved the fellowship. He denied he had anything to do with Krauses disappearance or death, according to public records.

He faces life in prison if convicted of first-degree murder.

Gooch attended Thursdays hearing virtually from jail with a black eye, the result of a fight a few days ago with another inmate, said Coconino County sheriffs spokesman Jon Paxton. Authorities are investigating what led up to it.

Goochs parents were members of the Mennonite church, and he grew up in the faith but never officially joined the church, he told authorities.

Griffen has asked that evidence on Goochs connection to the Mennonite church and communication with his family also be excluded from the trial. He said the prejudice is far too great.

Barker said the evidence points to a pattern of alleged disdain Gooch had for Mennonites.
RALEIGH, N.C. (Tribune News Service)  A former Fort Bragg Special Forces captain and his wife pleaded guilty in federal court Wednesday in connection with the theft of government property.

According to the criminal complaint, John Raymond Meier, 33, was serving as a supply officer in the 3rd Special Forces Group from 2017 to 2019. His job included reviewing and approving requests from Army units to purchase supplies and equipment with a government purchase card.

During his time in the position, his wife Nicole Anderson Meier, 34, incorporated the limited liability company White Board Solutions in Washington state under her maiden name and using her parents' Washington state address, the complaint states. Nicole Meier then obtained an identification number making her eligible to bid on contracts with the government.

As White Board Solutions, Nicole Meier agreed to provide three weeks of advanced commercial driver's training for soldiers who transported supplies to support 3rd Group's mission. As the supply officer, her husband signed off on the contracts, the complaint states.

During 2018, White Board Solutions negotiated six purchase agreements with the Army and received approximately $149,970, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

Under these agreements, White Board Solutions was required to rent the trucks and provide advanced training. While the company rented the trucks, it never provided any advanced training, the release states.

Since the estimated cost of renting the trucks was only $67,124, it was determined that the Army overpaid White Board Solutions by $82,845.60. The couple agreed to pay that amount in restitution to the Army, the release states.

Nicole Meier, on behalf of White Board Solutions, pleaded guilty to theft of government property. The business faces a maximum sentence of five years probation and a $500,000 fine.

In addition to the truck training contracts, John Meier also helped his wife sell ratchet strips, rifle magazines, firing adapters, targets and ink cartridges to the Army, the release states.

During the plea hearing Thursday, the government told the court about several email communications between the couple, according to the release.

On one occasion, as the supply officer, John Meier received a request to purchase M4 rifle magazines. He then reportedly forwarded the email to his wife with instructions for her to find the items and figure out how much she could charge the Army for them, the release states. On another occasion, John Meier provided his wife with quotes from other vendors to assure she would submit a lower quote and obtain the Army's business.

John Meier pleaded guilty to performing official acts affecting a personal financial interest. He faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

The couple now live in the Seattle area with their four children, according to court documents. John Meier joined the Army in 2008 and was commissioned an officer in 2014, the court record states.

"John Meier abused his position of public trust for personal gain, diverted proceeds meant to support the warfighter, and undermined the very principles he swore to defend as a U.S. Army officer," Christopher Dillard, special agent in charge of the Mid-Atlantic Field Office for the DOD Office of Inspector General, said in the release.

(c)2021 The Fayetteville Observer (Fayetteville, N.C.)

Visit The Fayetteville Observer (Fayetteville, N.C.) at www.fayobserver.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

The entrance to Fort Bragg is shown in this undated file photo. (Logan Mock-Bunting/Getty Images)

Justice
The guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold sails through the South China Sea, Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021. (Deanna Gonzales/U.S. Navy)

A top Navy official and the editor of a Chinese state-run newspaper traded digital quips Thursday, a day after a Navy destroyer cruised past a disputed reef in the South China Sea.

Navy Chief of Information Rear Adm. Charlie Brown and Global Times editor-in-chief Hu Xijin got into the back-and-forth on Twitter over the USS Benfolds pass within 12 nautical miles of Mischief Reef in the Spratly Islands.

Hopefully when Chinese warships pass through the Caribbean Sea or show up near Hawaii and Guam one day, the US will uphold the same standard of freedom of navigation, Hu tweeted. That day will come soon.

Hopefully when Chinese warships pass through the Caribbean Sea or show up near Hawaii and Guam one day, the US will uphold the same standard of freedom of navigation. That day will come soon. pic.twitter.com/7fRn8PVZuS  Hu Xijin  (@HuXijin_GT) September 8, 2021

Brown responded with recent examples of the Chinese navy sailing near U.S. waters, including a September 2015 incident in which the Chinese sailed within 12 miles of the Alaskan coast.

The [U.S. Navy] sails around the world in accordance with international law. All countries benefit from freedom of navigation in accordance with international law, Brown tweeted. Unfortunately, not all who benefit from freedom of navigation would extend that same freedom to others.

The @USNavy sails around the world in accordance with international law. All countries benefit from freedom of navigation in accordance with international law. Unfortunately, not all who benefit from freedom of navigation would extend that same freedom to others.  Navy Chief of Information (@chinfo) September 8, 2021

The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinsons strike group was also present in the South China Sea on Wednesday and held exercises there Monday, according to the Navy.

China has built up Mischief Reef and constructed underground storage, radar and communications arrays and other improvements, according to the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative. The U.S. does not recognize any territorial claim to the reef, according to a 7th Fleet statement Wednesday.

The Chinese military also denounced the Benfolds presence near the reef, according to the official China Military website on Wednesday. The Benfold entered the area without permission and was tracked, monitored and warned away by air and naval forces of Southern Theater Command, the site said.

Beijing has indisputable sovereignty over the islands, according to command spokesman Col. Tian Junli, the site reported. The U.S. is a security risk maker in the South China Sea and the biggest destroyer of peace and regional stability, according to Tians statement.

The 7th Fleet responded Wednesday afternoon by saying the Benfold operated according to international law. It called Beijings statement the latest in a long string of actions intended to misrepresent the Navys operations and assert excessive and illegitimate maritime claims.
Lt. Gen. Ron Place, right, takes a tour March 22, 2021, at BHC Camp Smith, a clinic for active-duty members at Marine Corps Base Hawaii, Camp Smith. Just over 70% of active-duty troops were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Sept. 8, 2021, two weeks after the vaccine became mandatory for members of the military. (Macy Hinds/Naval Health Clinic Hawaii)

Coronavirus vaccination rates among service members are far outpacing that of the U.S. population as a whole, with just over 70% of active-duty troops already fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the general in charge of a joint-forces health agency said.

The high percentage of fully vaccinated services members is particularly compelling (because) more than 80% of the active-duty force is 35 or under, Lt. Gen. Ron Place, head of the Defense Health Agency, told Stars and Stripes.

And if you look across the rest of America, its typically young men and women who are more reluctant to be vaccinated, he said.

Just under 53% of Americans were fully vaccinated against the virus as of Thursday, according to the Our World in Data website.

Around 82% of troops have had at least one coronavirus shot, and infection rates in the military are significantly lower than they are across the general population, Place said.

Service members have been stepping forward to get the vaccine since before Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin released a memorandum Aug. 24 making vaccination mandatory for members of the armed forces unless they have a medical or administrative exemption.

Medical workers at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill., prepare doses of COVID-19 vaccine in May 2021. Just over 70% of active-duty U.S. service members were fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as of Sept. 8, 2021. (Spencer Fling/U.S. Navy )

The Air Force and Navy have set deadlines for active-duty members, reservists and Guardsmen to be fully vaccinated, and the Army was expected to announce a timeline soon. The Coast Guard has said its members should aim to get the shot as soon as operations allow, starting immediately.

Austins memo sparked a flurry of calls on social media for service members to seek exemptions, particularly if they have had COVID-19. Some studies have found that previous infection gives more robust immunity against the illness caused by the coronavirus than the vaccine does.

But Place said he did not expect anything unique about these exemptions compared to others.

This is just another vaccine that will go into that bucket of discussions about how leaders either validate or not a particular exemption that a service member may believe they are entitled to, he said.

Place also said there has been no indication that service members would leave the military in droves over the vaccine mandate.

Service members have to get up to 17 vaccines against infectious diseases depending on what their military occupation is, where they are being deployed, and what their mission requirements are.

Eight vaccines are required just to get into boot camp, Defense Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters last month, before the coronavirus vaccine was mandated. Once a vaccine has been mandated, it becomes a lawful order, he said.

Hesitant service members are counseled by their chain of command and medical personnel, who explain the repercussions of not getting the shot, he said.

But there is no blanket Defense Department punishment for refusing to get vaccinated, he added.

Karin Zeitvogel
A sign informing people of COVID-19 testing sits in front of a Walgreens in Lexington, Ky., in 2020. (Alex Slitz, Lexington Herald-Leader/TNS)

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Tribune News Service)  While COVID-19 tightens its chokehold on Kentucky, the states hospital systems continue to face unprecedented challenges as they scramble to treat an influx of coronavirus patients, Gov. Andy Beshear said Thursday.

We are a state full of more seriously sick people than we have ever seen, he said from the state Capitol. If you need a hospital bed right now in Kentucky, there has never been a greater likelihood that theres not a bed available to you.

On Thursday, there were just 90 available intensive care unit beds in all of Kentucky, which Beshear said is the lowest number available at any time during the pandemic. Sixty of Kentuckys 96 acute care hospitals are reporting critical staffing shortages.

To help lessen the burden, Beshear announced that hes deploying an additional 300 members of the Kentucky Army National Guard to help expand capacity at 21 more hospitals across Kentucky struggling with a flood of patients and waning resources. More than 100 members of the National Guard are already assisting at four Kentucky hospitals, including St. Claire Regional Medical Center in Morehead.

On Wednesday, Kentuckys positivity rate soared above 14% for the first time, to 14.16%. Kentucky has so far confirmed 9,365 new cases since Monday. Last week, Aug. 30 to Sept. 5, brought 30,680 new cases, a weekly pandemic record.

As Beshear gave an update of the state of the virus in Kentucky, lawmakers approved Senate Bill 1, which would bar enforcement of any statewide mask mandate in child care, pre-Kindergarten and K-12 settings, leaving the decision instead to individual school districts. More than 27% of the 4,468 new cases reported Wednesday were in school-aged children, and kids between the ages of 10 and 19 continue to account for the highest incidence rates.

Universal masking is absolutely necessary in schools, Beshear said when asked about this bill. Thankfully, I think more superintendents know that now, even the ones who didnt think it was true in the beginning.

2021 Lexington Herald-Leader.

Visit at kentucky.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Some defense and Asia experts say that 9/11 and its aftermath sidetracked the U.S. in competing with China and has left Americas military at a disadvantage moving forward. (Pixabay)

In April 2001, a Chinese J-8 fighter jet collided with a U.S. Navy EP-3 reconnaissance plane as it flew near Chinas southern island province of Hainan.

The Chinese pilot died during bailout, and the crippled Navy aircraft made an emergency landing on Hainan, where the 24 crew members were detained and questioned before being released after an 11-day diplomatic standoff between Beijing and Washington.

The crisis was the first faced by a recently sworn-in President George W. Bush, who during the 2000 presidential campaign had promised to deal with China as a competitor rather than as a strategic partner.

The Hainan episode sparked a rethinking of the U.S.-China relationship by some administration officials and lawmakers who believed the United States should keep military forces as a counterweight to rising [Chinese] power in Asia  and work closely with U.S. allies and friends along Chinas periphery in order to deal with future assertiveness or disruption from Beijing, the Congressional Research Service said in a report issued later that year.

Certainly, there was a realization in early 2001 that China was the thing we had to worry about, said Gregory Poling, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank in Washington, D.C., in a phone interview Aug. 27.

And then a few months later, China was not the thing anybody was worried about, he said.

The Sept. 11, 2001, attacks by Islamic jihadis on the World Trade Center and Pentagon fixated America on counterterrorism and, soon after, counterinsurgency as the nation became embroiled in lengthy wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The Indo-Pacific and the challenge of an emerging and increasingly forceful China were by no means totally ignored in the years since, but defense and Asia experts say that 9/11 and its aftermath sidetracked the U.S. in competing with China and has left Americas military at a disadvantage moving forward.

Correcting the course

Two decades of war in the Middle East not only distracted the United States from rebalancing to Asia, it also dangerously degraded US military readiness and left the Joint Force ill-equipped for the kind of high-intensity military competition that will characterize great power competition with China, Ashley Townshend, a defense expert for the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney, wrote in an Aug. 26 email to Stars and Stripes.

Only in the last few years has the Pentagon exited this era of strategic distraction, said Townshend, who recently coauthored the white paper Correcting the Course, which called on President Joe Biden to make the region his top strategic priority.

But the costs to American power and influence in the Indo-Pacific will be enduring, necessitating an even larger shift of attention and resources away from the Europe and the Middle East to Asia than would have been necessary a decade ago.

The shift away from a military focused on counterinsurgency is something the U.S. will grapple with well into the future, Poling said.

The United States bled blood and treasure for 20 years, in ways that are not applicable to the theater that we now say is the foremost threat, he said. We invested trillions of dollars in upgrading land forces and counterterror and counterinsurgency forces that have no applicability to the naval and air theater that is the Pacific. Who knows what our naval modernization could look like right now had we not spent trillions of dollars for 20 years on the Army?

The budget fights and fights over what the services will look like are just now getting started, when they should have started 20 years ago, given China's naval modernization.

Seaman Xi Chan stands lookout on the USS Barry's flight deck as the guided-missile destroyer passes through the Taiwan Strait in April 2020. (Samuel Hardgrove/U.S. Navy)

China closes military gap

Some defense experts are less gloomy in assessing the legacy of the past two decades.

I think the U.S. has done a lot of things at the same time [as China] because the defense budgets were pretty good, said Derek Reveron, a professor at the Naval War College in Rhode Island who specializes in national defense policy, in a phone interview Aug. 24.

He pointed to the development of the F-35 stealth fighter jet, littoral combat ship, the Zumwalt-class guided-missile destroyer and the Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier  all suitable for a large-scale conflict in a theater such as the Pacific.

Zack Cooper, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute where he focuses on U.S. defense policy in Asia, is not convinced those weapons systems are an entirely apt or sufficient response to the China challenge.

I guess my view on this is that if you look back 10 years, the U.S. has spent  Im going to ballpark this  but probably two to three times as much money on defense as China has, Cooper said in a phone interview Aug. 26. And yet China is far closer to the United States today in military capabilities than it was a decade ago, despite having spent a small portion of what the U.S. spent in the last decade.

So, either we're spending it on the wrong thing or we're managing so many different challenges that we're struggling to keep up with what [Defense Secretary] Lloyd Austin has called the pacing challenge of China.

South China Sea inaction

While the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan siphoned off resources from the Pacific, China expert Mohan Malik does not regard that as the core problem.

More damaging were the fundamentally flawed assumptions underlying Washingtons China policy premised on turning Communist China into a responsible stakeholder or partner in the U.S.-led liberal order, said Malik, a visiting professor at the UAE National Defense College in Abu Dhabi, in an Aug. 27 email to Stars and Stripes.

The mindset largely prevailed through Barack Obamas administration, whose inaction over the construction and militarization of artificial islands in the South China Sea emboldened Beijing and demoralized the United States friends and allies in the Pacific, Malik said.

But a more aggressive posture regarding China is not always helpful  or even possible, said Srini Sitaraman, a professor at the Center for Asia Pacific Studies in Honolulu, in a phone interview Aug. 24.

Even if you had devoted more military spending in regard to China, I dont know that it would have made an enormous difference, Sitaraman said. What would you have done? Its not like theyre firing bullets. In the South China Sea, its [the Association of Southeast Asian Nations] that has to fight the battle. You cant go to war over it so really theres not a whole lot you can do with China in terms of warfighting.

Hesitancy hangover

Regardless of what military threat China could pose in the near future, the American public might not be keen on jumping into a new fray after exiting a conflict dubbed the forever war.

I think its natural that there is what I would call a hesitancy hangover, said Denny Roy, a senior fellow at the East-West Center in Honolulu who focuses on Pacific security and China, in a phone interview Aug. 24.

This could have implications for an elective U.S. military involvement in Asia involving China; take Taiwan or the South China Sea as two good examples, Roy said, adding that such reluctance would likely be more pronounced in the public than among those who plan for military contingencies.

Cooper said the restraints-oriented crowd now argues that the Afghanistan experience is proof that the U.S. is too focused on the military and not enough on diplomacy. The 20-year war in Afghanistan came to an end Aug. 31 when the final U.S. troops departed, leaving the country in the control of the Taliban.

On the other hand, I think theres some evidence that the American people see Afghanistan as very, very different from the challenges in Asia, he said.

He points to polling released Aug. 27 by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs that found 52% of Americans surveyed said they favored using American troops to defend Taiwan if China invaded the island, which the Communist Party of China has long regarded as a renegade province that must be reunified with the mainland.

This is the highest level of such support found since the council began asking the question in 1982.

The aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan transits the South China Sea in June 2018. (Sarah Myers/U.S. Navy)

A lesson for China

Roy suggested that the U.S. might not be the only superpower to absorb the chastening lesson of Americas failed effort to remake Afghanistan through military force.

For some Chinese, Americas quagmire in Afghanistan carries implications for one possible future of China-Taiwan relations, he said.

That is, if China ever has to resort to military force to try to impose its will on Taiwan  when the Chinese have, as they say, exhausted all peaceful methods of resolving what they see as the problem of Taiwan not being politically part of the Peoples Republic of China  then China has to think about not only the initial military part. The United States, arguably, won the war in Afghanistan and Iraq, but then lost the nation-building part.

Likewise, Chinas occupying force could be faced with a long, smoldering, difficult-to-extinguish hatred by the local population, along with insurgencies, guerrilla wars, or a sullen militarily occupied population that doesn't want to be militarily occupied.
The internet and social media have allowed the kind of skepticism and suspicion that fueled 9/11 conspiracy theories to spread farther and faster than ever before. (AP Illustration)

Korey Rowe served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned to the U.S. in 2004 traumatized and disillusioned. His experiences overseas and nagging questions about Sept. 11, 2001 convinced him America's leaders were lying about what happened that day and the wars that followed.

The result was "Loose Change," a 2005 documentary produced by Rowe and written and directed by his childhood friend, Dylan Avery, that popularized the theory that the U.S. government was behind 9/11. One of the first viral hits of the still-young internet, it encouraged millions to question what they were told.

While the attacks united many Americans in grief and anger, "Loose Change" spoke to the disaffected.

"It was the lightning rod that caught the lightning," Rowe recalls. He had hoped the film would prompt a sober reassessment of the attacks. Rowe, who lives in Oneonta, New York, doesn't regret the film, and still questions the events of 9/11, but says he's deeply troubled by what 9/11 conspiracy theories revealed about the corrosive nature of misinformation on the internet.

Twenty years on, the skepticism and suspicion first revealed by 9/11 conspiracy theories has metastasized, spread by the internet and nurtured by pundits and politicians like Donald Trump. One hoax after another has emerged, each more bizarre than the last: birtherism. Pizzagate. QAnon.

"Look at where it's gone: You have people storming the Capitol because they believe the election was a fraud. You have people who won't get vaccinated and they're dying in hospitals," Rowe says. "We've gotten to the point where information is actually killing people."

There were, of course, conspiracy theories before 9/11 happened  John F. Kennedy's assassination, the moon landing, a supposed 1947 UFO crash in Roswell, New Mexico. And the country's interest in alternative, fringe theories was on the rise before 9/11, exemplified by the 1990s show "The X-Files," with its taglines of "The truth is out there" and "trust no one." But it was 9/11 that heralded our current era of suspicion and disbelief and revealed the internet's ability to catalyze conspiracy theories.

Rescue workers continue their search as smoke rises from the rubble of the World Trade Center in New York, on Sept. 23,2021. Twenty years on, the skepticism and suspicion first revealed by 9/11 conspiracy theories has metastasized. One hoax after another has emerged, each more bizarre than the last. (Beth A. Keiser/AP) Korey Rowe uses his video camera near his home in Oneonta, N.Y. on Aug. 12, 2021. Rowe, whose experiences overseas serving in Iraq and Afghanistan and his nagging questions about Sept. 11, 2001, convinced him that America's leaders were lying about what happened on 9/11 and the wars that followed. (Robert Bumsted/AP) A person dressed as "Lady Liberty" wears a shirt with the letter Q, referring to QAnon, as protesters take part in a protest at the Capitol in Olympia, Wash., on Jan. 6, 2021. (Ted S. Warren/AP)

"Conspiracy theories have always been with us, and it's just the means of sharing them that has changed," says Karen Douglas, a psychology professor at the University of Kent in England who studies why people believe such explanations. "The internet has made conspiracy theories more visible and easy to share than ever before. People can also very quickly find like-minded others, join groups, and share their opinions."

Conspiracy theories about the attack and its aftermath also gave early exposure to some of the same people pushing hoaxes and unfounded claims about COVID-19, vaccines and the 2020 election, including Alex Jones, the Trump-supporting publisher of Infowars, who has accused the United States of plotting the attacks and has said the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting was a hoax. Jones was a co-producer of the third edition of "Loose Change."

Polls show belief in 9/11 conspiracy theories peaked in the years immediately following the attack, then subsided. Repeated surveys show a small percentage of Americans continue to harbor doubts about the official explanation of the attacks.

It's not surprising that such views persist, or that they have ebbed over time. Shocking, sudden events often spawn conspiracy theories as people collectively grapple with understanding them, says Mark Fenster, a University of Florida law school professor who has studied the history of conspiracy theories in America.

"A plane that runs into the World Trade Center? That runs into the Pentagon? It sounds like the stuff of films," Fenster says. "It just didn't seem like a real event, and it's when you have a major anomalous event like this that conspiracy theories sometimes come around."

Before the internet, conspiracy theorists relied on books, pamphlets and the occasional late night television show to espouse their beliefs. Now, they can swap theories on message boards like Reddit, post videos on YouTube, and win over new converts on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

The first known 9/11 conspiracy theory was put forward only hours after the attack, when an American software engineer emailed a post to an internet forum questioning whether the towers were toppled by a controlled detonation.

Twenty years on, a search on YouTube for content related to 9/11 turns up millions of hits.

Thousands of videos focus on conspiracy theories. That is a lot, but the grandfather of modern conspiracy theories has been outpaced by the upstarts: A Google search of "9/11 conspiracy theory" turns up more than 8 million results, while a search for "COVID conspiracy theory" turns up more than three times that.

Tech companies say they have done what they can to limit the spread of false information about 9/11. YouTube has added links to authoritative sources to some 9/11-related videos. Facebook says it has added fact checks to several viral hoaxes about 9/11, including one that the Pentagon was struck by a missile and not a plane.

For many younger Americans who came of age after 9/11, the internet is the first place they go for information on the event. Sept. 11 isn't taught consistently in schools; some districts require it while others brush over it or ignore it completely.

False claims about the attacks often come up at the National Sept. 11 Memorial and Museum, which offers educational services to visitors and school children across the country. Such instances are an opportunity to talk about the facts of what did happen, and the many investigations that followed, according to Megan Jones, senior director of educational programs at the memorial.

"We have a generation now with no memory of 9/11, so it's important to share the stories of what happened," Jones says.

Bogus claims about the Sept. 11 attacks never posed the threat now ascribed to misinformation about COVID-19 or the 2020 U.S. elections. But even proponents of 9/11 conspiracy theories say questions about what happened primed the pump for the distrust and anxiety behind today's conspiracy theories.

"The danger is, once you have that distrust of authority and government, it's a dangerous place to be," says Matt Campbell, a British citizen whose brother died in the World Trade Center on 9/11. Campbell believes the towers came down after a controlled demolition, and is seeking a new inquest in the UK that would review his brother's death.

"If you think everything they're telling you is a lie, then you just switch off: 'Could be true, might not be true, whatever,'" Campbell says.

On the grand scale, such the distrust the underlies such beliefs can become dangerous when they begin to divide a society, or when they are exploited by a political leader or an outside adversary.

"Usually it is the case that the people who feel they are being excluded from power who are committed to conspiracy theories," Fenster says. "What's different this time is that it was the party that was in power  the party that had the White House  that was the main broadcaster of conspiracy theories."

Early on, conspiracy theories about Sept. 11 were popular with some liberals who disliked former President George W. Bush or who opposed the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. But after Barack Obama became president, bogus claims about 9/11 began growing in popularity among some conservatives who cite it as an example of the handiwork of the "Deep State."

Two years before winning her seat in Congress in 2020, Georgia Republican Marjorie Taylor Greene said she doubted that a plane had actually hit the Pentagon. Last year she acknowledged that she had been wrong, and sought to deflect blame by saying it was the government's fault that she spread misinformation.

"The problem is our government lies to us so much to protect the Deep State, it's hard sometimes to know what is real and what is not," she tweeted.

Ben Crew is a screenwriter who has produced a video debunking many popular 9/11 conspiracy theories. He's also started a project in which he travels the country collecting personal accounts of 9/11, with the goal of getting at least one story from all 50 states.

Crew hears lots of conspiracy theories  claims about a missile hitting the Pentagon, claims that the airliners that hit the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania were empty.

He says that almost everyone he interviews considers 9/11 to be a pivotal point in American history, the start of a wave of anxiety and fear that for many people still hasn't crested.

"It seems like there's an opportunity for everything to just catch fire now," Crew says. "Nine-eleven ignited that."
Buy Photo The rising sun silhouettes an out-of-use guard tower, fence and concertina wire at Camp Delta in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on April 19, 2016. (Corey Dickstein/Stars and Stripes)

NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba  President Joe Biden turned the page on one legacy of 9/11 by ending the war in Afghanistan. But he has yet to do much about another: the Guantanamo Bay detention center.

The White House says it intends to shutter the prison on the U.S. base in Cuba, which opened in January 2002 and where most of the 39 men still held have never been charged with a crime. How or when the administration will carry out that plan remains unclear, though early moves to free one prisoner and place five others on a list of those eligible for release have generated optimism among some eager to see it close, including prisoners.

The fact that Biden, at least, is saying the right things has given people hope, said Clive Stafford Smith, a lawyer who was recently making his 40th trip to Guantanamo Bay, seeing prisoners he hadnt been able to visit since the start of the pandemic. Hope is a dangerous thing because its easily crushed. But at the same time, at least, they have hope and thats good.

As he did with Afghanistan, Biden faces a complex task in closing Guantanamo. It was a pledge that President Barack Obama famously made, and then failed to carry out. Closure was abandoned as a goal altogether under President Donald Trump, who vowed once to load it up with some bad dudes but mostly just ignored the place.

The challenge now, as then, remains: What should the U.S. government do with the men at Guantanamo it isnt ready to release?

Among them are Khalid Shaikh Mohammad, a onetime senior al-Qaida figure considered the architect of the 9/11 attacks. He faces a trial by military commission with four co-defendants that  amid legal and logistical challenges, personnel issues and the pandemic  has been bogged down in the pretrial stage at a specially built high-security courtroom for more than 9 years. There is no start in sight.

Mohammad and his co-defendants were in court this week for the first time since the start of the pandemic for a hearing on the qualifications of a new judge, Air Force Col. Matthew McCall, to preside over the sprawling death penalty case. It was the 42nd round of pretrial hearings since the arraignment in May 2012.

With the passage of time comes new problems. The oldest prisoner, a Pakistani cleared for release in May but who remains at Guantanamo, is 74 and has heart disease and other ailments. A number of other men have significant physical and mental health issues as well that will need to be addressed if indefinite detention goes on much longer. Since Guantanamo opened, nine prisoners have died  two from natural causes, and seven in apparent suicides.

People are getting older, sicker, more and more desperate, said Pardiss Kebriaei, an attorney with the Center for Constitutional Rights who represents a Yemeni prisoner who was recently cleared but remains held.

Its not surprising, really, that no one made long-term plans for the detention center. It was a makeshift project from the start.

Following the invasion of Afghanistan, in reaction to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, the U.S. wanted a place to hold the hundreds of prisoners from dozens of countries swept up by American forces, many handed over, as it turned out later, in exchange for bounties regardless of whether they had a connection to al-Qaida or the Taliban.

The administration of then President George W. Bush declared they were the worst of the worst, and asserted it could hold the men overseas, without charge as unlawful enemy combatants, not entitled to the full protections of prisoners of war at the sleepy Navy outpost on the jagged southeastern coast of Cuba.

A photo released by the Pentagon showed the first detainees, clad in orange jumpsuits, and kneeling in outdoor cages under the tropical sun. It was intended to show a message that we are doing what we need to do in a defiant message to the world, said Karen Greenberg, director of the Center on National Security at Fordham Law.

They regretted that decision very soon afterwards, within days if not weeks, said Greenberg, author of The Least Worst Place: Guantanamos First 100 Days.

As reports emerged of brutal treatment, Guantanamo became a source of international outrage, undercutting the sympathy and support the U.S. drew after the 9/11 attacks.

The U.S. would end up holding 779 prisoners at Guantanamo and spend hundreds of millions constructing and operating what today looks more or less like a small state prison, surrounded by razor wire and guard posts at the edge of the shimmering Caribbean Sea.

Bush would ultimately let 532 prisoners out. Obama released 197. Trump released a single detainee, a Saudi who went back to his homeland after striking a plea deal in the problem-plagued military commissions.

Few of those held could be charged with a crime because no evidence was collected when they were captured, or there wasnt any, or it was tainted beyond use when the detainees were subjected to what the CIA euphemistically called enhanced interrogation. Of those who remain, 10 are facing trial by military commission, with all still in the pretrial stage.

Over the years, the population has steadily shrunk as the U.S. decided some men no longer posed a threat and werent worth holding amid legal challenges. It has also at times been roiled by hunger strikes and rocked by clashes between prisoners and guards, sparked largely by frustration at being held indefinitely without charge under what the U.S. asserted was its right under the international laws of war.

Guantanamo is smaller and quieter now. But Stafford Smith, a founder of the human rights organization Reprieve, says its still oppressive. Its not so much the physical conditions, its the psychological conditions, he said. Being told that youre in Hotel California and you can check out but you can never leave, that psychologically is immensely damaging to people.

Obama, who issued an executive order shortly after taking office directing that Guantanamo be closed within a year, ran into political opposition when his administration announced it would move the military trials to federal courts. Congress eventually added language to the annual Pentagon authorization bill prohibiting the government from moving Guantanamo prisoners into the United States for any reason.

In a sign that the political winds might be shifting, Congress recently stripped the prohibition on transferring Guantanamo Bay prisoners from the Pentagon authorization and eliminated funding for the detention center from next years budget. It remains to be seen whether that will change, particularly after several former prisoners, released under both Bush and Obama, emerged as Taliban leaders in Afghanistan.

The Biden administration, which didnt respond to requests for comment for this article, hasnt said much about its plans.

I dont have a timeline for you, press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters when asked in July about closing Guantanamo. As you know, theres a process. There are different layers of the process. But that remains our goal, and we are considering all available avenues to responsibly transfer detainees and, of course, close Guantanamo Bay.

Those who support closure are encouraged by the fact that the new administration has revived a review board process and has cleared five for release. (None were cleared under Trump). But they are concerned that Biden team has yet to name anyone at the State Department to lead an effort to secure agreements with other countries for the resettlement of prisoners, as was done under Obama.

Many argue that the simplest solution would be to move the cases of the 10 detainees facing trial by military commission to federal court in the U.S. and find a way to transfer or release the rest. Kebriaei, the attorney whose Yemeni client is awaiting release, said the administration just needs to focus on the issue.

Theres a sense that it has to be done and very practically more of a possibility that it can be done," she said.
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Road to Mykonos port, Mykonos island, Greece. The roads are narrow. The hills are steep and driving can be a challenge, but that's part of the adventure. (iStock )

You are certain you can drive a stick shift? asked Aldo as we sat on the veranda outside the lobby of my hotel in Mykonos. A tall, mustachioed Albanian who clearly understood cars, Aldo gave me the keys to a tiny Fiat Panda in fire-engine red. He stared at me as if he had instead handed over a revolver and asked if I knew how to engage the safety.

I learned on a Triumph, I assured him, recalling the sporty British convertible of my youth.

He cautiously handed over the key to my rental car from Assimomitis, a local company, adding, Turn off the air conditioning before going up a steep hill.

My hotel, the new and spacious five-star Amazon Resort & Spa, stretched across a hillside on the southwest coast of the island, just off Agios Ioannis Beach. The only way out of the steep driveway was up, and I got near the top in Panda Red before turning off the air conditioner and trying again. This time I was successful.

This was my third visit to the Greek island of Mykonos. Although long acknowledged as the queen of the Cyclades island group, during my last visits, in the 1980s, a capricious and disorganized hospitality infrastructure demonstrated that Mykonos had not yet hitched a ride on the international luxury travel express. My introduction to the island had been arrival at the modest four-star hotel I had been told was the premier spot, only to find it had lost my reservation. I was exiled to a simple bed and breakfast nearby.

I returned six years later to see things still much the same; indeed, half the fun on both trips was trying to find a restaurant or taverna meal that was not criminally awful.

To reach any of the prized beaches on the southern end of the island in those days, you needed to take a weathered boat inevitably captained by a grizzled, aging mariner. Due to some bad advice, the first time I tried it, the skipper dropped me off at Super Paradise Beach  at that time the islands gay nude beach. Swimming sans culottes has been Greek since before they began the Olympics, in 776 BC, but with my trunks kept on, I was an ignored anomaly during a curiously agreeable afternoon.

How times have changed. All island buildings have the same blocky, white-stucco look, offering both charm and a marvelous architectural uniformity. The white blocks pop up from the arid-brown landscape, punctuating the hillsides like milestones along narrow, undulating roads.

Mykonos Town now looked rather as it had before, with main narrow pedestrian paths for streets. The difference is they were now filled with good restaurants serving fine Greek wines. There were still modest local shops, but there was also a Gucci, a Kiton and plenty more luxury names you know. New white buildings, some quite large and elegant, populated back hills previously inhabited by goats.

For my first drive, I took Panda Red to the center of the island, to see the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani. Tour buses circled the plaza outside, and cruise-ship day trippers crowded into its narrow church in relays. It was like trying to obtain a spiritual epiphany in a shopping mall the day before Christmas.

From there, Panda Red and I made it to the lighthouse, on the northwest tip of the island. Isolated, desolate and still, it looked like an artifact from a disused missile base, but the promontory on which it stood gave a brilliant view of the town and its harbors, in the distance.

I next steered toward what GPS said was the entrance to a northern beach, Panormos, but ended up in a bracken-sided path so steep, even with the A/C off, Red Panda strained to climb to freedom, succeeding only on the second try. Finally arriving at my destination, and eschewing valet parking to shield Panda Red from damage, I came to the beach entrance, which was effectively blocked by the Principote Beach Club. Filled to capacity with chic young people in designer labels, I could have sworn it was St. Barts during a Vogue cover shoot.

Even if I had wanted to pay dearly to rent a sunbed (chaise lounge), it was not possible because I had failed to make a reservation in time. I followed instructions through a desolate path to the free side of the strand, ending up in a down-market version of what I had remembered from my past visits.

Dinner was at the Amazon, at an open-air table in its Flavor restaurant, above the long infinity pool, served, serendipitously, by another conscientious Albanian named Aldo. The hotels kitchen was consistently fine and a good value.

During the night, someone had uncovered a utility access panel in front of Panda Reds right front wheel  which fell into the hole the moment I released the parking brake. A huge man from the rental car company now appeared, only to tell me glumly that I was wrong: it was not possible to push the car free. I asked him to get into the drivers seat. After summoning three hearty men from the hotel staff, with one in front, two on the right side and me opposite, the driver threw the car into reverse as I yelled, Push, men, push! until Panda Red was freed, with no signs of damage.

I told a young man from the hotel that, from now on, I would be grateful if they valet parked the vehicle. Another asked helpfully, Would you like to keep your parking space, sir?

After consulting the Oracle at Delphi (she now has an app), I pledged to confine my driving to very short trips, resulting in an unexpectedly delightful day of luxury, in the new Mykonos manner. The Amazon primed me with a lovely, seaside breakfast. From there, I drove a handful of minutes to the other side of the beach, arriving at the small and very exclusive Bill & Coo Coast Suites, where refined minimalism was a calming motif throughout.

I finally got to rest on a beach sunbed, dutifully attended by the staff. I interrupted that only for lunch at the Beefbar Mykonos open-air restaurant, which offered a Mediterranean take on the steakhouse, such as my sophisticated pasta al Kobe beef  meat ravioli accented with black truffles.

Dinner was at the Katikies Mykonos, across the street. The chef at its Mikrasia Restaurant, Aggelos Bakopoulos, served a special signature menu (literally: as a souvenir, I got a signed copy) at outdoor tables set into beach sand. I particularly enjoyed his seabass a la polita; surprisingly sweet, the fish filet was served inside a foaming sauce with vegetables. I could watch the sun settle into the sea, the island turning blue and falling into a regal blackness for the night.

Even a short drive back at night was a challenge. Roads twisted like confetti in a windstorm, and local drivers passed me with inches to spare if I showed the poor good sense to obey speed limits.

The southern beaches were close enough for me to hazard a return visit. New roads now reached them, and they undulated beneath Panda Red like roller coaster tracks. I braked for an insouciant goat and made it back to Super Paradise Beach, which resembled its prior self only in name. Opulent and well-attended, with sunbeds and Champagne available as you pleased, it was both sophisticated and suitable for family visits.

The same was true for Agrari, the next beach over, where I got a sunbed in an outlying cluster for 15 ($18)  by far the cheapest I had seen. A diligent, somewhat forlorn man served inexpensive comfort food.

I set off by foot for the opposite end of the beach, climbing a hill spiked with jagged rocks, facing Elia Beach, just to the east. Below the crest, however, was a small, sandy alcove. Although it was not marked on my tourist map, it held over three dozen men, nearly all of them naked, crowded together on beach towels. Many were young and quite well-built; I figured: Im older and lately bald, but Ive kept well-tempered abs  surely thats an entry visa to the domain of Poseidon.

Since my last visits, havent I learned that to travel well you must reach past your comfort zone? I went down the single, narrow path to the beach, not exactly saying, Pardon me, straight guy coming through, but so obviously giving that impression, I was once again politely ignored by all.

To close the circle on my first experience at Super Paradise Beach, so long ago, I joined the other guys for a proper Grecian skinny dip. The water was perfect  the right temperature and rolling in a gentle way that made it feel more like an open-air bath than a trip to the beach.

When it was at last time to leave Mykonos, Aldo came to collect Panda Red. He quietly and carefully documented four areas of light damage, probably caused in parking lots or by roadside bracken, handing me a bill for 600. (I was later told that my experience of Mykonos driving was not uncommon.)

Aldo offered to drive me to the ferry in a company SUV. Depositing me there, he left me with some good advice: Next time, please, take taxis.

If you go

Hotel: Amazon Mykonos Resort & Spa, Agios Ioannis, 84600 Mykonos, Greece; tel.: +30-22890-77773; www.amazonmykonos.com.

Nearby restaurants: Gourmet dining at Katikies Mykonos and Bill & Coo Coast Suites, also at Agios Ioannis. Book from North America through Leading Hotels of the World, 1-800-223-6800.

Helpful car rental: Assimomitis; tel.: +30-6955-797979; wwwmykonoscars.com.
Buy Photo Deer, including several bucks displaying their antlers, at the Tier-und Pflanzenpark Fasanerie in Wiesbaden, Germany, Sept. 1, 2021. (David Edge/Stars and Stripes)

Wiesbadens wilderness park, or Tier- und Pflanzenpark Fasanerie in German, offers a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Nestled in the woods on the outskirts of town, the park is part zoo, part playground.

But be forewarned: It is not easy to find. I drove past it twice before I saw the little sign with the name on it.

A 30-minute drive from Hainerberg, set in the hills on the far side of Wiesbaden, the wilderness park sits on land that was once the hunting grounds of nobility from the region.

First created in 1750 as a pheasant run by Prince Karl von Nassau-Usingen, it remained in his family until 1912, when the city of Wiesbaden acquired it. The city opened the wilderness park in 1955.

The park is unlike any zoo I have ever visited. For a start, all the animals are native to Germany -- no tigers or lions, but there were bears, wolves and foxes.

The bear and wolf enclosures were blocked off, but I did see a couple of bears feeding on wild blackberries in the distance. Sadly, they were too far away for me to get good pictures.

There were also bison, or buffalo, which surprised me. They were smaller than their North American cousins but still very impressive.

Buy Photo Bison graze at the Tier- und Pflanzenpark Fasanerie in Wiesbaden, Germany, on Sept.1, 2021 (David Edge/Stars and Stripes)

And there were herds of deer, including what looked to be an eight-point buck. When I saw the majestic beast, I couldnt help but think about all my friends and family members who would love a chance to hunt him.

The bird, fox and small-rodent enclosures all bleed into one another and were hard to tell apart.

The park has a new facility dedicated to birds of prey, where visitors can ogle owls and eagles, kestrels and buzzards.

Informational displays show silhouettes of the birds in flight, and a sculpture fashioned out of oak depicts a European owl.

The enclosure for foxes, badgers, European hamsters and mice has an above-ground tunnel that simulates the experience of being beneath the Earths surface in the animals habitat.

Besides the animal enclosures, the park has 18 structures called energy stations, which are supposed to be places where people can improve their well-being. The energy stations are situated on a circular route and were designed in coordination with a psychotherapist.

Signs explain how to use each station to strengthen resistance to sickness and stress by tapping into the invigorating power of the natural world.

An exhibit titled Fasanerie in Transition, which runs through Oct. 31, traces the history of the site and its development into a modern showcase for wildlife.

Parts of the park, including the bear bridge and viewing platform, the sheep pen and the pheasant aviary, have been shut down because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Animal feeding shows for the public have been suspended until further notice.

As for the feeding of people, there is a nice restaurant right next door.

Parking and admission to the park are free.

Buy Photo A fox naps in its enclosure Sept. 1, 2021, at the Tier- und Pflanzenpark Fasanerie in Wiesbaden, Germany. (David Edge/Stars and Stripes)

Address: Wilfried-Ries-Strasse 22, 65195 Wiesbaden

Hours: Open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Price: Free

Information: E-mail: fasanerie@wiesbaden.de; Phone : +49 611 1729 930
Buy Photo The closest waterfall to the campsites at Jakuchikyo Camping Ground, Japan, is called Ryuo-no taki and has a large pool beneath the falling water. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripes)

Enjoy waterfall swims, mountain trail hiking or camping and glamping in tents or cabins about a 90-minute drive from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. At Jakuchikyo Camping Ground, also known as Seven Falls, camping season runs from April to November. To get there, I suggest the slightly longer route over the Kintai Bridge. The other two available routes will take you over rough, narrow roads that shrink to a single lane as you approach your destination and may make some drivers nervous.

Dont forget your swimsuit and water shoes; the first and second waterfalls are popular places to cool off with a swim. The water is cold but refreshing.

The second waterfall, up a steep and narrow path, has a deeper pool and a spot on the rocks where swimmers may jump from about 10 feet high.

If you enjoy hiking, Seven Falls is a great place for you. Free trail maps are available at the front lodge, which is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. None of the trails are fit for strollers or small children, unless the latter are carried.

Route B is marked by steep terrain with steps and a handrail and is the shortest trail with the best view. The quarter-mile route passes all the waterfalls as you ascend.

Route A, a half-mile long, is an easier trail, and Route C was closed during my visit. The most challenging of the hiking trials is the outer loop, which is about 12 miles long.

Buy Photo Visitors swim upstream of Jakuchikyo Camping Ground in Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripes)

For overnight camping, reservations are recommended. For those, like me, not fluent in Japanese, the Information Tickets and Travel office at MCAS Iwakuni will make those reservations for a $3 fee.

Check-in time is no later than 4:30 p.m. The campgrounds are not pet friendly.

The least expensive of three options is a tent site for about $9.50 per night. A site with a raised platform is about $19.05 per night. Earliest check-in for those sites is 3 p.m., with check-out by 2 p.m. the following day. For another $4.56, you may also rent a barbecue grill.

A cabin rental for four people is $94.53, with $14.31 per additional person after that. Earliest check-in is 3 p.m., with check-out at 10 a.m.

Dont own any camping gear? Outdoor recreation at the Iron Works Gym offers three days of gear rentals at no cost.

Buy Photo The main lodge at Jakuchikyo Camping Ground, Japan, has a small selection of snacks and fresh vegetables. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripes) Buy Photo A pavilion for cooking and gathering stands near the platform camping sites at Jakuchikyo Camping Ground, Yamaguchi prefecture, Japan. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripes)

Directions: About a 90-minute drive from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan. 1388 Nishikimachiusa, Iwakuni, Yamaguchi 740-0901

Times: Camping is open from April to November; the main lodge is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Costs: From about $9.50 per night for tent to about $95 for a cabin that sleeps four.

Food: Theres a small convenience store selling snacks, good and other items.

Information: 0827-74-0776
As the news shifts, many Americans may think the Afghan War is over.

Not so. The searing scenes of Kabuls fall are having a powerful impact on Americas global image, including the abandonment of Afghan allies. Chinese and Russian propaganda outlets are gleefully trumpeting scenes of Americas defeat. NATO allies who had troops in Afghanistan are bitter that they were forced to leave Afghan staff and their own nationals  because President Joe Biden didnt consult them. And the final U.S. defeat  set in motion by former President Donald Trumps surrender treaty with the Taliban and finalized by Bidens exit  raises questions about whom and what our country is willing to fight for.

The Biden team needs to look far deeper than the defensive justifications that the president and top officials have been presenting in public. Here are some of the questions I believe should top the list.

Why was the exit from Kabul so disastrous?

Whether or not you think Biden should have pulled out U.S. troops, this question must be dissected. White House efforts to spin the U.S. militarys herculean last-minute efforts cannot obscure the fact of Taliban victory. (And GOP hysteria over the chaotic exit is totally hypocritical given Trumps aborted efforts to schedule sudden pullouts before leaving office, and his disastrous U.S. pullout from the Syrian border with Turkey.)

The evacuation chaos has fed a perception by allies and enemies of U.S. incompetence that started with Trump over COVID-19 failures, and has been advanced by conservatives vaccine refusal and global warming denial. Now the messy exit from Kabul is added to the evidence list. How could U.S. intelligence have failed so badly  when the string of Taliban victories after Bidens withdrawal announcement in mid-April was so unrelenting? Was this a case of White House willful blindness (like George W. Bush in Iraq), or of bureaucratic blundering?

Despite Bidens praise of the 300,000-strong Afghan army, the Defense Department knew these numbers were inflated, and the armys morale was crashing.

In 2009, I watched NATO trainers struggle on the vast and desolate grounds of the Kabul Military Training Center, at the outskirts of the city. Seventy percent of the recruits couldnt read. And new Afghan soldiers told me frankly that they hated M-16s because they needed so much maintenance whereas Soviet-era AK-47s were far more dependable.

Washington trained an army to U.S. standards, including an air force that needed U.S. maintenance. U.S. military officials warned repeatedly that the Afghan air force  critical to support its ground troops  would collapse if Washington pulled all troops out.

Surely the State Department and the National Security Council knew these facts, yet the White House was caught flat-footed by the Taliban as we exited. Why?

What are Americans now prepared to fight for?

This decision about Afghanistan is not just about Afghanistan. Its about ending an era of major military operations to remake other countries, Biden told Americans last week. Fair enough. Clearly, nation-building, and democracy-building, havent gone well in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

But has the White House faced the consequences of that admission? The president champions democratic values in contrast to the authoritarianism of China and Russia. How does this square with abandoning the Afghan women activists, journalists and human rights workers who adopted those values?

And what about USAID, the American aid agency that threw so much money into culturally inappropriate and corruption-ridden projects in Afghanistan. How will that be reformed?

Where and when will America be willing to use military force in the future?

Any over-the-horizon efforts to prevent the Taliban from hosting terrorist groups arent likely to be successful: We now have no U.S. or Afghan eyes on the ground, and the nearest U.S. bases are many hours away.

And, after the fall of Kabul, our allies in Europe, the Mideast and Asia are asking whether we still have their backs against Russia, Iran and China. They are so happy in Moscow, I was told by independent Russian journalist Yevgenia Albats from Moscow. State propaganda media are claiming that America not only lost the war but left everyone who trusted them behind.

Chinas state media are also busy hammering on the trust issue, especially toward Taiwan. How many lives of U.S. troops and how many dollars would the U.S. sacrifice for the Island of Taiwan? asked Chinas Global Times. The U.S. troops withdrawal from Afghanistan  has dealt a heavy blow to the credibility and reliability of the U.S.

In Singapore in late August, Vice President Kamala Harris accused China of intimidation in the South China Sea and asserted that the U.S. stands with our allies and our partners. Does it? Seoul, Tokyo and Taipei need reassurance, along with South Asian allies.

Can America rebuild its image?

For moral and geopolitical reasons, the White House needs to demonstrate that it wont abandon American citizens and allies in Afghanistan. They are now virtual hostages, and the Taliban will demand economic prizes. But who trusts an ally who leaves its friends and citizens behind?

The White House also needs to remove its blinders, and face the causes and consequences of the Kabul debacle. Only then can it begin to convince the world this was not one more step toward Americas inevitable decline.

Trudy Rubin is a columnist and editorial-board member for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
A fighter loyal to the Tigray People's Liberation Front mans a guard post on the outskirts of the town of Hawzen, Ethiopia, on May 7, 2021. (Ben Curtis/AP)

NAIROBI, Kenya  Local officials in Ethiopia alleged Wednesday that Tigray forces have killed more than 120 civilians in recent days following battlefield losses, in what would be one of the deadliest massacres of the East African nation's 10-month war. Tigray forces denied killing civilians.

Sewunet Wubalem, administrator for the Dabat district in Ethiopia's northern Amhara region, told The Associated Press that 123 bodies had been recovered and more were expected to be found.

"The attack on Sept. 4 was the most severe one, especially in the village of Chenna Teklehaymanot," the administrator said, adding the attack began on Aug. 27 after Ethiopian forces blocked an attempt by Tigray fighters to seize the city of Gondar.

Local residents blamed the Tigray forces for looting, shelling and killing civilians, Sewunet said. "Children, mothers and even religious elders were also targeted," he said.

The death toll could be as high as 200, said Bekele Yitbarek, head of the North Gondar Health Bureau. "As far as I know, some (Tigray) fighters are still hiding in between farms and are continuing their killings."

The government-created Ethiopian Human Rights Commission in a brief statement said it "has learned that civilians who were unable to flee when the town came under control of (Tigray) forces stayed behind on the assurance that that no harm will come to them if they supply them with food." Citing residents and local authorities, it said the people were killed by retreating Tigray forces as Ethiopian and regional forces approached.

The Tigray forces in a statement on Wednesday called the allegations "fabricated" by the Amhara regional government.

A spokesman for the Tigray forces, Getachew Reda, told the AP last month that Tigray forces aren't targeting civilians as they fight in Ethiopia's Amhara and Afar regions.

But multiple witnesses even before the latest killings have alleged otherwise.

The conflict in Ethiopia's Tigray region has spread into other areas in recent weeks, displacing hundreds of thousands of people. The Tigray forces say they are trying to pressure the government to lift the near-complete blockade on food aid and other essential supplies to their region as some 400,000 people there face a famine.

Ethiopia's government has called on all able citizens to join the effort to stop the Tigray forces "once and for all," urging students and others into basic military training.

The United Nations, the United States and others are pressing for an immediate cease-fire and a path to talks to end a war that has killed thousands of people in Africa's second-most populous country.
Police officers take away cardboards featuring the images of Former Chinese Premier Zhao Ziyang, right, and pro-democracy activist Szeto Wah from the June 4th Museum in Hong Kong, on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. A dozen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty on Thursday to participating and inciting others to take part in last year's unauthorized candlelight vigil to mark the bloody Tiananmen Square crackdown. (Kin Cheung/AP)

HONG KONG  A dozen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty Thursday to participating in an unauthorized candlelight vigil to mark Beijing's bloody crackdown in Tiananmen Square.

The 12 were charged with participating in the unauthorized assembly in Victoria Park on June 4 last year, when thousands of Hong Kongers turned up to light candles and sing songs despite police warnings that they may be breaking the law. Seven of the 12 were also charged with inciting others to take part in the assembly.

Authorities have banned the vigils for the past two years, citing public health risks due to the pandemic, although critics believe the ban is part of an ongoing crackdown on dissent in the semiautonomous Chinese territory following months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Prior to the ban, the candlelight vigil event held on June 4 every year was attended by massive crowds and was the only large-scale public commemoration on Chinese soil of the 1989 crackdown in Beijing.

Those who pleaded guilty on Thursday include lawyer Albert Ho, former lawmaker Eddie Chu and Figo Chan, a former leader of the Civil Human Rights Front which was known for organizing large-scale pro-democracy rallies in the city.

The 12 are expected to enter mitigation pleas. They face up to five years in prison.

They are part of a larger group of activists who were arrested over the June 4 assembly. Some of them, including jailed Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai, have pleaded not guilty.

Prominent activist Joshua Wong and three others who were also charged over the June 4 vigil had previously pleaded guilty in April and were given prison sentences of between 4 to 10 months.

Separately, national security police on Thursday raided the closed June 4 museum in Hong Kong, a day after four core members of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China were arrested.

The alliance organizes the annual June 4 vigil and runs the museum each year.

This year's museum was closed three days after it opened to visitors following an investigation by authorities over its lack of appropriate licences. The alliance was later fined 8,000 ($1,000) Hong Kong dollars.

Hong Kong authorities have cracked down on dissent over the past year, after Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law in response to months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Dozens of pro-democracy activists have been arrested and the city has amended electoral laws to increase the number of seats for pro-Beijing legislators while reducing those that are directly elected.

Critics say the national security law, which has been used to arrest more than 100 people, rolls back freedoms promised to the former British colony when it was handed over to China in 1997. Hong Kong had been promised it could maintain freedoms not found on the mainland for 50 years, such as freedom of speech and assembly.
Australian Defense Minister Peter Dutton, left, and Foreign Minister Marise Payne, second left, meet with their Indonesian counterparts Prabowo Subianto, right, and Retno Marsudi, second right, in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. (Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs via AP)

JAKARTA, Indonesia  The foreign minister of Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, urged the Taliban on Thursday to respect the rights of women and not allow Afghanistan to become a breeding ground for extremist activities.

Retno Marsudi made the comments after meeting with Australia's foreign and defense ministers, who are visiting Jakarta to bolster security ties.

Marsudi said Indonesia is closely monitoring the situation in Afghanistan and hopes the country will not be used as "a breeding and training ground for terrorist organizations and activities that threaten peace and stability in the region."

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced an all-male interim government that includes many veterans of their hard-line rule in the 1990s and 20-year battle against U.S.-led forces.

Indonesia has suffered a series of militant attacks since bombings on the tourist island of Bali in 2002 killed 202 people, mostly foreigners, including 88 Australians. The Bali bombings were blamed on the al-Qaida-linked Jemaah Islamiyah network.

In the following decade, Indonesian security forces backed by the U.S. and Australia crushed Jemaah Islamiyah, killing leaders and bomb makers and arresting hundreds of militants. But a new threat has emerged in recent years from Islamic State group sympathizers, including Indonesians who traveled to the Middle East to fight with the group.

Marsudi and her Australian counterpart, Marise Payne, urged the Taliban to respect and promote human rights, especially those of women and girls.

"Indonesia has a significant role to play as a Muslim country with a strong voice on these issues," Payne said in a joint video news conference with Marsudi, Australian Defense Minister Peter Dutton and Indonesian Defense Minister Prabowo Subianto.

Payne and Dutton arrived in Jakarta on Wednesday for the first of a series of meetings with foreign and defense ministers in Indonesia, India, South Korea and the United States to underscore Australia's role in the Indo-Pacific region, where China's influence and military power are growing.

Their trip will also prepare for Prime Minister Scott Morrison's visit to Washington, D.C., later this month to meet with U.S., Indian and Japanese leaders in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue.

China has called the so-called Quad an attempt to contain its ambitions.

Payne described the Indo-Pacific region as the most dynamic, innovative and prosperous in the world.

"To maintain that prosperity and security, we welcome a region that supports a level playing field based on rules and norms to ensure healthy competition, rather than competition that risks sliding into instability or conflict," she said.

The four ministers agreed to cooperate in defense, cybertechnology and countering terrorism and violent extremism, and in fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Surging infections have strained Indonesia's healthcare system as it struggles to roll out vaccinations. Australia has provided it with 1 million vaccine doses, 1,000 ventilators and more than 800 oxygen concentrators and cylinders.
Buy Photo Tokyo reported another 1,675 people had tested positive for coronavirus Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. That's 1,424 fewer cases than one week ago (Akifumi Ishikawa/Stars and Stripes)

TOKYO  The Japanese government was poised Thursday to extend a coronavirus state of emergency in 19 prefectures, including Tokyo, to relieve an overburdened health care system, despite falling case numbers.

Tokyo reported another 1,675 people had tested positive for coronavirus Thursday, 1,424 fewer than one week ago, and continuing a declining trend now 18 days long, according to public broadcaster NHK and metro government data. Seriously ill patients in the city number 251, NHK reported.

Tokyo has been under this latest state of emergency since July 12.

Meanwhile, Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni reported one new coronavirus case, an individual already in restricted movement, according to a news release Thursday.

Also Thursday, John O. Arnn Elementary School, at Camp Zamas Sagamihara Housing Area, had one person associated with the school test positive, according to a message Principal Edwin Munoz posted on Facebook. Camp Zama, 28 miles southwest of central Tokyo, is the headquarters for U.S. Army Japan.

The middle school at Camp Zama reported two people had contracted the coronavirus there Sept. 1 and Monday. The school did not close and no classes were interrupted, according to messages from Principal Henry LeFebre.

A panel of Japanese experts has recommended extending to Sept. 30 the emergency scheduled to end Sunday in 19 prefectures, according to Japanese media. Prime Minster Yoshihide Suga was scheduled to announce the extension Thursday evening.

Japan reported another 12,411 coronavirus infections and 90 deaths Wednesday, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center on Thursday.

Nishimura Yasutoshi, the minister in charge of the coronavirus response, said that of the 21 prefectures under the existing emergency, only the health-care systems in Miyagi and Okayama prefectures have seen relief, according to NHK.

Of 12 other prefectures under a quasi-emergency, six will be canceled, while the remainder will be extended until Sept. 30, according to NHK.

Under the emergency, residents are asked to refrain from unnecessary travel, telework when they can and avoid large gatherings. Businesses are encouraged to limit the number of people they admit, and bars and restaurants are to close early and refrain from alcohol sales.

The government is planning to ease some of those measures as more of Japans population becomes vaccinated, according to a Kyodo News report Thursday. More than 49% of the population, or 62 million people, are fully vaccinated, according to Johns Hopkins on Thursday.

South Korea update

U.S. Forces Korea said another 17 people tested positive for COVID-19 since Aug. 31, according to a news release Thursday.

Six people had developed symptoms of the disease: a service member at Camp Hovey; a service member at Camp Casey; two family members and one South Korean contractor at Camp Humphreys; and one South Korean employee at Yongsan Garrison, according to USFK.

Contact tracing discovered another seven patients: two service members at Humphreys; one service member, a Defense Department civilian employee and two family members at Daegu; and one family member at Osan Air Base.

South Korea reported another 2,018 new cases: 660 in Seoul and 639 in Gyeonggi province, where Osan and Humphreys are located, the Korea Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported Thursday.

More than 37% of the South Korean population, or 19.1 million people, are fully vaccinated, according to KDCA.

Stars and Stripes reporter Yoo Kyong Chang contributed to this report.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, seen here in an image provided by the state-run Korean Central News Agency, has been summoned by a Japanese court to answer for alleged human rights abuses. (KCNA)

TOKYO  A Japanese court has summoned North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to answer for alleged human rights abuses five plaintiffs say they suffered after moving to North Korea under a government repatriation program.

The plaintiffs defected to Japan and filed a civil suit three years ago in Tokyo District Court seeking about $909,000 each for the abuse they suffered, their lawyer Kenji Fukuda said at a news conference Wednesday.

The court on Aug. 16 ordered Kim to appear at the first hearing in the case on Oct. 14, Fukuda said.

Kim is not expected to show up, but this is the first time a Japanese court has summoned a North Korean government official to appear, Fukuda said. He said the court order sets aside any claim for Kim of sovereign immunity.

The five allege that North Korean government propaganda deceived them into joining a repatriation program by describing the communist country as a paradise on earth, Fukuda said.

The plaintiffs also claim state abduction by the North, which would not permit them to leave the country, and obstruction of departure for keeping their families in North Korea against their will.

Over 93,000 Koreans and their families living in Japan moved to North Korea under the repatriation program between 1959 and 1984, urged by the North Korean government to resettle there, according to Fukuda. North Korea promised free housing, medical care and education, he said.

Of course, they realized soon after they arrived in North Korea that it was a false advertisement, Fukuda said, and that it is not a paradise on earth.
This image from the state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center, attending a military parade in Pyongyang, early Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. (Rodong Sinmun)

North Koreas midnight military parade celebrating 73 years since the nations founding Thursday appeared to lack the display of new weaponry that frequently causes friction with South Korea and the United States.

North Korean troops were pictured in the Thursdays Rodong Sinmun newspaper parading through Kim Il Sung Square in the center of Pyongyang, the capital, as thousands of attendees cheered. Leader Kim Jong Un, wearing a beige suit, oversaw the event from a balcony and was seen ceremoniously waving at marching troops.

Based on images published in the state-run publication, the regime did not appear to showcase new weaponry, such as a ballistic missile, as it has in past parades. However, North Korea did parade its artillery systems, traditional cavalry units, dogs and people wearing hazardous materials suits.

North Korea's state-run televised broadcasting agency had yet to show the parade on Thursday afternoon, and a complete line-up of the showcased weapon systems was not immediately known.

This image from the state-run Rodong Sinmun newspaper shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attending a military parade in Pyongyang, early Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. (Rodong Sinmun)

The newspaper also reported that escort planes and fighter jets flew over the city square, and parachutists descended from the sky waving their country's flag.

Initial reports suggest the regime may have wanted to tone down  at least for a moment, as the U.S. and South Korea develop a strategy for North Korea, said Yoo Hoyeol, professor emeritus of North Korean studies at Korea University.

The U.S. envoy for North Korea is expected to meet with his counterparts from South Korea and Japan as soon as next week in Tokyo, according to multiple news reports. Special envoy Sung Kim in August said he was willing to meet with North Korean representatives anywhere and at any time, and that the U.S. does not have hostile intentions."

At this time, the coronavirus is still a problem in this region and there is no reason for him to hurry up and provoke South Korea and the U.S., Yoo told Stars and Stripes on Thursday. Kim wants to see what happens in South Korea and the U.S.  North Korea still has time to make preparations.

Despite North Korea reporting no coronavirus cases and rejecting millions of Chinese-made vaccines, analysts believe the country has been severely affected by the pandemic and in need of aid, particularly in the form of eased sanctions.

Soo Kim, a policy analyst for Rand Corp. and an adjunct instructor at American University, told Stars and Stripes on Thursday that the parade did not appear to be a major milestone for the regime. She added it may have merely been an obligatory event conducted with minimal effort.

North Korea is expected to hold another parade celebrating the ruling partys founding on Oct. 10, a more significant anniversary than the countrys founding, Yoo said.

During a parade celebrating the 75th anniversary of the ruling Workers Party in October, the country unveiled a new intercontinental ballistic missile that analysts say could be the worlds largest mobile ICBM.

South Koreas Ministry of National Defense in a text message to Stars and Stripes on Thursday said it was carefully monitoring the parade and that the countrys intelligence services were conducting a detailed analysis  in close coordination with the U.S. intelligence authorities.

Stars and Stripes reporter Yoo Kyong Chang contributed to this report.
Roughly 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea, most of them at Camp Humphreys, the largest U.S. military bases overseas and headquarters for U.S. Forces Korea. (Ken Scar/U.S. Army)

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea  A bipartisan pair of U.S. lawmakers said Thursday the alliance with South Korea remains strong, despite fears that the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan signals weakened resolve on the Korean Peninsula.

Reps. Ami Bera, D-Calif., and Young Kim, R-Calif., gave their assessment of the alliance with South Korea during a virtual panel discussion hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C.

Bera, a co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Study Group on Korea, advised policy watchers not to read too deeply into President Joe Bidens decision to withdraw from Afghanistan.

Korea is a totally different country  its one of the most developed democracies in the world, he said. Its certainly a developed economy. We have a long geopolitical, strategic relationship and our security commitments are extremely important to members of Congress in a bilateral way.

Kim, one of the first Korean American women elected to Congress and a study group member, said the abrupt U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan raises valid questions, but the nations long-term commitment to South Korea is stronger and friendlier than ever.

We are there as a deterrence to any potential conflict in the Korean Peninsula, she said. We will be there  to lend our voice and be your advocate. And please, trust us. The United States can lead, and we will lead once again, and show that we can come out of those difficult challenges.

Roughly 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea, most of them at Camp Humphreys, the largest U.S. military bases overseas and headquarters for U.S. Forces Korea. The USFK mission is to deter aggression and if necessary, defend [South Korea] to maintain stability in Northeast Asia, according to the command's website.

South Korea is technically still at war with North Korea despite the lapse in armed conflict. The Korean War ended with an armistice agreement in 1953, not a peace treaty.

Former President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from South Korea during his tenure, saying Seouls share of the cost to station American forces in the country was not enough. Trump reportedly demanded South Korea spend $5 billion for the U.S. military presence, an offer Seoul rebuffed.

Bidens administration recently agreed to a new Special Measures Agreement in which South Korea contributes roughly $1 billion for U.S. troops and South Korean civilian workers on military bases.

Kim described South Korea as one of our most important allies and said the U.S. must treat them like the strong partner that they are.

South Korea was the United States sixth-largest trading partner in 2020, after $127 billion in products flowed between the two nations, according to the U.S. Trade Representative. The Department of Commerce estimates the allies trade relationship generated around 256,000 jobs in 2019.
Yokosuka Command Master Chief Robert Beachy watches as the guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey, left, moors alongside USS The Sullivans at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021. (Kaleb Sarten/U.S. Navy)

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  The guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey, formerly of San Diego, pulled into its new homeport Wednesday, the largest U.S. naval base in the Far East.

The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is replacing the USS Curtis Wilbur, 7th Fleet spokesman Lt. Nicholas Lingo told Stars and Stripes in an email Thursday. The Curtis Wilbur left Yokosuka on Aug. 18 for San Diego and a scheduled maintenance period.

Although the ship wasnt greeted by a formal welcoming party, Yokosuka Command Master Chief Robert Beachy was on the pier to welcome his wife, Dewey Command Master Chief Eliza Rubic, said base spokesman Randall Baucom.

The Dewey is the third destroyer to arrive at the naval base in the past month. The USS Higgins and USS Howard docked Aug. 16 as replacements for the USS McCampbell and the USS Stethem, both of which left for modernization.

The Dewey will join Task Force 71, Destroyer Squadron 15, a surface warfare command based out of Yokosuka that also serves as the sea combat command for the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, according to the Navy.

"Dewey is an excellent addition to our forward-deployed team," said Task Force 71s commander, Capt. Chase Sargeant, in a Wednesday news release. "Dewey brings capability and lethality that enables U.S. 7th Fleet to defend U.S. and like-minded nations interests and supports a rules-based international order and free and open Indo-Pacific."

The Dewey left San Diego on Aug. 3 as part of the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, after which it participated in the Navys Large-Scale Exercise 2021.

Commissioned in 2010, the ship has seen service in the Western Pacific. In 2018, the Dewey sailed alongside the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group as part of its first patrol of the Indo-Pacific region.

The Dewey also visited the South Korean island of Jeju in 2017, one of several ships deployed to the area that year amid rising tensions with North Korea.

The destroyer is the third vessel named after the former Navy admiral George Dewey, whos known for a major 1898 victory in Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War.
Buy Photo Secretary of State Antony Blinken speaks Sept. 8, 2021, during a visit to Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Blinken later said the treaty dispute that has exposed scores of U.S. military personnel to tax penalties at the hands of German finance authorities was not on his radar. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

STUTTGART, Germany  Secretary of State Antony Blinken said this week that he is unaware of a treaty dispute that has exposed scores of U.S. military personnel to hefty tax penalties at the hands of German finance authorities, but that he intends to look into the matter.

Im sorry, not something that Im aware of, but Id certainly invite you to take that up with the embassy, if they can work the issue and Ill double back and look into it, Blinken told Stars and Stripes following a visit to Ramstein Air Base late Wednesday. Not something that was on my radar.

Blinken, who was in Germany to discuss with allies evacuation efforts in Afghanistan, oversees a State Department in charge of resolving the disagreement over how the NATO Status of Forces Agreement should be interpreted.

The U.S. contends that attempts by German authorities to tax certain troops, Defense Department civilians and contractors amounts to a violation of a treaty designed to make military pay off limits to local tax collectors.

As a result of the situation, hundreds of DOD personnel have been issued tax penalties by German authorities that in some cases have reached into the six figures. That is on top of the American income tax they are required to pay.

In June, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin personally raised his concerns over the issue with his German counterpart, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, during a meeting at the Pentagon.

Other German officials, including Foreign Minister Heiko Maas, also have expressed interest in resolving the matter, which is at a standstill one year after the U.S. Embassy in Berlin lodged a formal complaint over the issue.

Its not clear why Blinken has been in the dark about the dispute. But more direct involvement from the top American diplomat could help nudge talks forward.

At issue is a contention by some German finance offices that Defense Department personnel can be taxed if they have motivations for being in Germany beyond just their jobs.

In Germany, unlike the case in any other allied country where U.S. forces are based around the world, troops and civilian personnel are exposed to liabilities if local tax offices decide that a military member is not in the country solely for work.

Being married to a German, sending a child to a German school, extending tours or owning property are among the factors that German authorities have considered when deciding to impose penalties.

By contrast, DOD personnel in other countries routinely marry locals or have extended tours without threat of local income taxation. These include Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom, Japan and South Korea.

Last year, there were nearly 400 cases involving SOFA status personnel in the greater Kaiserslautern area alone. They included an Air Force master sergeant who was targeted for extending a tour and being married to a German woman.

Teachers at military schools, many of whom remain in their positions for years on end, also could be at heightened risk.

Stars and Stripes reporter Jennifer H. Svan contributed to this story.
Buy Photo Air Force Col. Amy Glisson visits with children inside temporary living facilities at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, for evacuees from Afghanistan, Sept. 2, 2021. Glisson, the 86th Mission Support Group commander at Ramstein, is the camp commander for the day-to-day operations of receiving, housing and sending tens of thousands of evacuees on to the United States. (Jennifer H .Svan/Stars and Stripes)

KABUL, Afghanistan  The first international civilian passenger flight since the end of the U.S. airlift departed from the Afghan capital and landed in Doha, Qatar, on Thursday with scores of dual nationals on board, including Americans.

Ten U.S. citizens and 11 green-card holders departed on the Qatar Airways flight, State Department spokesman Ned Price said. The manifest for the flight had granted permission for 211 passengers, including about 30 Americans, to leave from Kabul, according to diplomats in Kabul who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak to the media. It was not immediately clear how many passengers were on the flight, but footage showed a group of men, women and children boarding the plane.

The Taliban was pressed to allow the departures by U.S. Special Representative Zalmay Khalilzad, said an official, who also spoke on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief reporters. The dual nationals on the manifest also included passport holders from Britain, Italy, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Canada and Germany.

National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne released a statement Thursday saying the United States "facilitated the departure of U.S citizens and lawful permanent residents" on the flight.

"The Taliban have been cooperative in facilitating the departure of American citizens and lawful permanent residents on charter flights" from Kabul airport, the statement read. "They have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort. This is a positive first step."

Qatari and Taliban officials gathered on the tarmac in Kabul on Thursday to announce that the airport was nearly fully operational after significant repairs were made after the Taliban came to power. They also confirmed that Americans and other Western passport holders were on the flight.

Mutlaq al-Qahtani, a Qatari special envoy, told reporters that it should no longer be seen as an "evacuation" but rather free passage for those with valid travel documents. "We want people to feel that this is normal."

"I can say this is a historic day in the history of Afghanistan, as the Kabul airport is now operational," he said. "We want to have a gradual reopening of the airport." He said he expected another flight Friday.

The Taliban pledged that once the airlift was complete, Afghans with travel documents would be free to leave the country.

"Anyone who carries valid travel documents, passports, visa will be allowed to travel," Taliban spokesman Qari Yousef Ahmadi said Thursday. "They will be allowed to proceed after going through the legal process."

In the northern city of Mazar-e Sharif, a number of planes chartered to evacuate at-risk Afghans have been stuck on the tarmac for days. Organizers of that evacuation effort say the Taliban has not granted the planes permission to take off. The Taliban said technical issues and the lack of fully functioning Interior and Foreign ministries have held up the effort.

This week, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Washington was working with the Taliban to move U.S. citizens and other allies out of the country safely but that complications had arisen over some passengers' travel documents.

"It's my understanding that the Taliban has not denied exit to anyone holding a valid document, but they have said those without valid documents, at this point, can't leave," Blinken said in a news conference in Doha, Qatar.

The situation in Afghanistan remains unstable, with protests breaking out across the country in recent days as the Taliban announced a caretaker government in the capital, composed largely of hard-line Taliban members. Several members of the new interim government were previously detained at Guantanamo Bay and were released in exchange for U.S. soldier Bowe Bergdahl in 2014.

On Wednesday, Taliban forces cracked down on a protest in Kabul, detaining several Afghan journalists and severely beating two who work for Etilaatroz, an Afghan newspaper, the outlet said on Twitter. Photos shared on social media showed their backs covered with lash marks.

The Interior Ministry later announced a ban on protests, saying participants have been "harassing people and disrupting normal life."

"All citizens are informed that for the time being, they should not try to hold demonstrations under any name or title," the statement said.

"For the past few days, a number of people in Kabul and other provinces have taken to the streets in the name of demonstrations, disrupting security, harassing people and disrupting normal life," it added.

The international community is still grappling with how to manage the Taliban takeover.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told reporters Thursday that Washington is closely monitoring whether al-Qaida militants will once again attempt to use Afghanistan as a staging ground to launch attacks against the United States.

"The whole community is kind of watching to see what happens and whether or not al-Qaida has the ability to regenerate in Afghanistan," he said while visiting Kuwait. "We put the Taliban on notice that we expect them to not allow that to happen."

The Taliban criticized the United States on Thursday for continuing to "blacklist" Sirajuddin Haqqani, the new interim interior minister, who is also on the FBI's most wanted list. His father founded the Haqqani network, a Taliban offshoot that the United States has designated as a foreign terrorist organization.

The Taliban said in a statement Thursday that the Haqqani family "does not have a separate name or organizational setup" and that blacklisting the interior minister violates the 2020 Doha agreement.

On Wednesday, a spokesman for British Prime Minister Boris Johnson told Reuters that Britain "will continue to judge the Taliban on their actions."

"We would want to see, in any situation, a diverse group in leadership which seeks to address the pledges that the Taliban themselves have set out, and that's not what we have seen," he said.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said Wednesday that "the announcement of a transitional government without the participation of other groups and yesterday's violence against demonstrators and journalists in Kabul are not signals that give cause for optimism."

China announced that it will send around $31 million worth of aid, including coronavirus vaccines, to Afghanistan. Xinhua, the state-run news agency, reported that Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China welcomes Taliban statements related to government formation and international cooperation, particularly on terrorism, and "the key is to transform them into concrete action."

Meanwhile, former Afghan president Ashraf Ghani, who fled the country on Aug. 15, released a statement Wednesday saying he believed his departure "was the only way to keep the guns silent and save Kabul and her 6 million citizens."

He also firmly denied what he described as "baseless allegations" that he fled with millions of dollars "belonging to the Afghan people" and said he is open to a U.N. investigation or audit.

O'Grady reported from Doha, Qatar.
Taliban soldiers stand guard in Panjshir province northeastern of Afghanistan, Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021. (Mohammad Asif Khan/AP)

KABUL, Afghanistan  Reminiscent of their previous harsh rule in the 1990s, the Taliban have already begun to wipe out some of Afghanistan's gains of 20 years. They've denied women a seat at the Cabinet, beaten journalists into silence and enforced their severe interpretation of Islam, on occasion violently.

And yet there seems little the international community can do about it.

The world will need to engage with the Taliban to some extent, despite disappointment with the new all-Taliban Cabinet that defied earlier promises it would be inclusive.

The U.S. needs Taliban cooperation to evacuate the remaining Americans and to fight an increasingly brazen Islamic State affiliate, considered the greatest terrorist threat against America emanating from Afghanistan. In recent weeks, the IS flag has been seen flying from several districts of the eastern province of Nangarhar.

Meanwhile, a humanitarian disaster that threatens millions of Afghans has the world scrambling to respond. On most days, Qatar is flying in food and medical supplies. Pakistan has announced it is sending planeloads of aid to Afghanistan.

The United Nations has launched a $606 million emergency appeal to help nearly 11 million people in Afghanistan, or nearly one-third of the population. They are deemed to be in desperate need as a result of drought, displacement, chronic poverty and a sharp increase in hostilities as the Taliban swept to power last month.

Even before the Taliban takeover, nearly half the population needed some humanitarian aid and more than half of all children under the age of 5 were expected to face acute malnutrition, according to the U.N. report that accompanied the emergency appeal.

The economic challenges are steep. Most Afghans live on less than $2 a day, 80% of the country's budget was covered by international funds over the past 20 years, and no industries of note have emerged to provide employment to a mostly young population. Tens of thousands of Afghans have fled, most of them members of the educated elite.

Yet despite such dependence on international support, the Taliban sent a message with their Cabinet lineup this week that they intend to run Afghanistan on their terms. They named a government filled with veterans of their 1990s rule and the subsequent insurgency against a U.S.-led military coalition. Their Cabinet includes former Guantanamo Bay prisoners and  perhaps one of the most eyebrow-raising appointments  Sirajuddin Haqqani, wanted by the FBI for questioning in several deadly attacks, as interior minister.

They also forbade protests without prior authorization in a new attempt to silence dissent and reportedly banned some women's sports.

The Taliban would seem to want it both ways  to run Afghanistan according to their harsh interpretation of Islam, while maintaining some level of cooperation with the international community.

In portraying their Cabinet as a caretaker administration, the Taliban signaled there is still room for change and that other nations can do business with this government without recognizing it first.

In a three-page policy statement that accompanied the formation of the government, the Taliban also addressed concerns of the region and the larger world. They promised Afghanistan would not be used as a staging arena for attacks on other countries. They said they would not interfere in the affairs of other nations and demanded the same in return. And they pledged to allow Afghans to leave the country, provided they have the proper travel documents.

"I imagine the use of the term "caretaker" is very strategic," said Michael Kugelman, deputy director of the Asia Program at the U.S.-based Wilson Center. "The idea is to create an impression that at some point the government will change and become more inclusive, and therefore more amenable to the West."

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, directing his words at the Taliban, warned Wednesday that "any legitimacy, any support will have to be earned." He spoke after hosting a virtual meeting of ministers from 22 countries as well as NATO and the European Union.

It's unlikely, however, that the Taliban's top leadership will change anytime soon. Its tens of thousands of fighters will have to be brought under a single Afghan National Security Force banner, even integrating some of the previous military personnel into the mix. But that won't happen without the likes of Haqqani, the new interior minister, or the Taliban founder's son Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob, the defense minister.

In time, economic necessity might prompt the Taliban to loosen their grip and allow women and non-Taliban into the administration, but likely in secondary roles. For women, this might mean work in the traditional fields of health and education.

The Taliban "need to open the door and trust non-Taliban in governance. They need to bring technocrats ASAP to get the economy going," said Torek Farhadi, an adviser to previous Afghan governments.

The Taliban face a number of challenges to their rule.

Prolonged economic stagnation could lead to protests by the country's growing poor who might eventually decide they have little to lose by openly challenging the hard-line rulers. Afghans of 2021 are not the compliant population of 1996  a time when the Taliban had little trouble imposing their uncompromising edicts.

There are also debates and differences within the movement and no one among the Taliban has absolute authority, unlike in the past, under the late founder Mullah Mohammad Omar who had the final word.

The West and Afghanistan's regional neighbors hope to use money and recognition as leverage to influence the Taliban.

Wednesday's ministerial meeting signaled that the U.S. and Europe will be watching the Taliban closely.

Kugelman, from the Wilson Center, said others, such as Pakistan, China and Russia, might eventually set a lower bar for formal recognition of a new Afghan government. China has already promised to stay engaged and mine Afghanistan's vast mineral resources while helping rebuild the war-ravaged nation. Still, Kugelman said, the Taliban badly need access to billions of dollars in foreign reserves that the West has denied them.

"The announcement of its very non-inclusive Cabinet will put those funds further out of reach," he said.

___

Gannon has covered Afghanistan for The Associated Press since 1988. She is the AP's news director for Afghanistan and Pakistan.
International flags fly outside the United Nations headquarters on Sept. 22. 2020. (Jeenah Moon/Bloomberg)

The U.S., China and Russia are facing an early test of whether they can collaborate to keep Afghanistan from sinking even deeper into crisis as they negotiate the renewal of a long-running United Nations mission that's scheduled to expire next week.

The UN Security Council will meet Thursday to debate the situation in Afghanistan and how to extend the organization's operation there, which has a mandate through Sept. 17.

The mission has served as a critical link for humanitarian and human rights programs in Afghanistan, including support for gender equality efforts. That could be a flashpoint with the new Taliban-led government because the group has a long history of abuses against women and girls despite recent promises of moderation.

"We want to see human rights issues addressed in Afghanistan, and in particular, the rights of women and girls," Irish Ambassador Geraldine Byrne Nason, who's presiding over the Security Council this month, told reporters. "The measure of the Taliban and their plans for their new phase in Afghanistan will be how they treat women and girls, and we will absolutely hold them to account on that."

Early signs are that the mission will be extended despite differences among the Security Council rivals over how to deal with Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover, according to diplomats involved in the talks. China and Russia have made clear they're less inclined than the U.S. and its allies to pass judgment on the Taliban.

What happens after a temporary extension remains in doubt, with the longer-term presence of the UN and other aid organizations liable to become ensnared in a broader debate over how far to push the Taliban to uphold human rights. The group's previous rule in the late 1990s was marked by widespread brutality, including the stoning of women.

Now, Taliban leaders say they will let women work, attend school and exercise other rights within the structure of Islamic law, without giving details. But UN and other officials say rights abuses are already occurring and many women are worried about reprisals for exercising their basic rights.

"Every day we're seeing reports of rollbacks on women's rights," Alison Davidian, deputy country representative for UN Women in Afghanistan, told reporters on Wednesday. In some provinces, she said, "we're hearing that women are being prohibited from leaving their homes to go to work."

U.S. officials have criticized the Taliban's announcement of a caretaker government this week for not being inclusive: No women or members of the ousted government were named to posts.

"Any legitimacy, any support, will have to be earned," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Wednesday in Germany.

This week's developments and the debate over the UN mission highlight a broader challenge the West now faces in Afghanistan, as it tries to balance the need to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe there while refraining, for the time being, from backing or openly recognizing the Taliban.

There's little debate that aid needs to continue flowing, with one in three Afghans facing food insecurity. The UN is calling on donors to pledge about $600 million in new aid on Sept. 13, chosen as a day to announce commitments, amid warnings of drought and starvation.

"People are losing access to basic goods and services every day," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. "A humanitarian catastrophe looms."

The UN's aid chief, Martin Griffiths, met with Blinken this week in Qatar, where the top U.S. diplomat pledged to support the mission's renewal, Griffiths told reporters on Tuesday. Blinken and his staff have said that while sanctions must remain in place, aid should continue to reach the people of Afghanistan.

"Consistent with our sanctions on the Taliban, the aid will not flow through the government, but rather through independent organizations, such as UN agencies and NGOs," Blinken said in a reference to nongovernmental organizations. "And we expect that those efforts will not be impeded by the Taliban or anyone else."

Beyond immediate aid, Europe, the U.S. and allies are dangling the possibility of broader recognition if the Taliban can deliver on human rights, counterterrorism and an inclusive government. Although China and Pakistan, a longtime backer of the Taliban, have engaged the militant group's leaders, most nations seem to be in little hurry to take up the politically risky idea of recognition, focusing instead on establishing communications.

Heiko Maas, the German foreign minister, said Wednesday that discussions about recognizing the Taliban would be coordinated with allies because "we don't want the Taliban to play one against the other."

"We will probably not open up an embassy or consulate there, not until we see whether or not the Taliban is prepared to deliver on the public promises they have made," Thomas Pickering, a U.S. diplomat for four decades, told Bloomberg Television last week.

For the new Taliban government, much is at stake. Signs of an economic crisis are abundant, with prices of essential goods rising in Kabul while banks run short on cash. The U.S. has frozen about $9.5 billion in assets belonging to the nation's central bank, and the International Monetary Fund cut off the group from using fund reserve assets.

The European Union has also suspended more than $1 billion in development assistance pending talks with the Taliban.

For now, the Taliban are focused on consolidating control. UN officials say the group has yet to apply for its credentials at the world body, where an envoy from former President Ashraf Ghani's government is still at work.

And while the West holds back, analysts say China and Russia may be quicker to deepen their ties with the Taliban if their security concerns are met. Both nations want to ensure that the militant Islamism the Taliban espouse doesn't spread in their countries.

"China and Russia are arguing for a pragmatic approach in dealing with Taliban," said Richard Gowan, UN director for the International Crisis Group. "For them, regional security interests come first."
Spc. Nashyra Whitaker, 23, of the Louisiana National Guard died Sunday in a drunken driving accident in McAllen, Texas, where she was deployed to support the federal mission at the southwest border with Mexico. She joined the Guard in February 2019 as an automated logistical specialist. (Louisiana National Guard)

A drunken driving accident in Texas involving three National Guard members left one soldier dead, another injured and the third facing a manslaughter charge, according to law enforcement and military officials.

All three Guard members were serving on the federal mission at the southwest U.S. border with Mexico, according to military officials.

Spc. Nashyra S. Whitaker, 23, died at the scene of the single-vehicle accident that occurred at about 2:15 a.m. Sunday in McAllen, Texas, said Lt. Joel Morales, spokesman for the McAllen Police Department. Whitaker was a member of Louisiana National Guard.

Georgia Guard member Bianca Farmer, 24, was driving the vehicle on North 23rd Street when she crashed into a utility pole, he said.

Claude Cecile Berry, the third passenger in the vehicle and also a member of the Georgia Guard, was taken to the hospital where his arm was amputated, according to The Monitor, a McAllen newspaper.

Farmer was charged and arraigned on charges of intoxicated manslaughter, intoxicated assault and driving while intoxicated with bond set at $190,000, Morales said. She was booked into Hidalgo County Detention Center on Sunday and released Wednesday, according to online jail records.

U.S. Northern Command confirmed Farmer and Berry are members of the Georgia Guard. But officials for the Georgia Guard declined to provide additional information about the soldiers.

Bianca Farmer, 24, of the Georgia National Guard was charged with intoxicated manslaughter and assault following a drunken driving accident in Texas that killed Spc. Nashyra Whitaker of the Louisiana National Guard. (Hidalgo County Detention Center )

The Defense Department has authorized 3,000 troops to serve along the southwest border to assist U.S. Customs and Border Protection through September 2022. The troops filling the mission are a mix of active-duty service members and National Guard personnel.

For the safety of service members deployed in support of the southwest border mission, policies have been in place since January 2021 that limit alcohol consumption. These policies are typical of those implemented for service members during deployments, said Eduardo Natividad, spokesman for Joint Task Force North, which oversees the southwest border mission.

On Sunday, following the fatal accident, zero tolerance for violating the alcohol policy went into effect, he said.

Whitaker served with the Louisiana Guards Company E, 199th Brigade Support Battalion, 769th Brigade Engineer Battalion in Baton Rouge. She joined the Guard in February 2019 as an automated logistical specialist, according to the Louisiana Guard.

She was recently attached to the 2nd Battalion, 156th Infantry Regiment, 256th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

Whitakers awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon. She is survived by her mother and father.

National Guard Crime and courts
Afghan evacuees arrive at Dulles International Airport in August 2021. The health care needs of many of the evacuees, who are being housed temporarily at the Dulles Expo Center, have taxed Northern Virginia's hospital system, local officials say. (Craig Hudson for The Washington Post)

The mass arrival of Afghan evacuees last month, many in need of medical care, wreaked havoc on northern Virginia's hospital system - prompting a regional emergency response group to assume oversight after one hospital became overwhelmed with patients and federal officials lost track of where some Afghans were hospitalized, officials said.

Area leaders have been asking the Biden administration to pay for the mounting cost of keeping track of the hospitalized evacuees and for giving them rides back to the Dulles Expo Center - where they have been temporarily housed - after a federal contractor took hours to retrieve some of the evacuees who were ready to be discharged.

One of the evacuees federal officials lost track of was a month-old child with a potentially life-threatening illness, said Kristin Nickerson, the executive director of the Northern Virginia Emergency Response System, which coordinates the region's response during mass-casualty events. The infant was later found, still hospitalized, through a patient-tracking system that her group implemented, she said.

In another case, a hospital near the Dulles Expo Center that federal officials designated as a go-to spot for medical treatment began running out of available beds, forcing the hospital to turn away non-Afghan patients who weren't in need of critical care, said Nickerson, who also directs the Northern Virginia Hospital Alliance and declined to name the hospital.

"Our hospitals are already almost at capacity," she said, referring to the recent surge in coronavirus cases. "It's not like they have tons of free beds available. We are still in the middle of a pandemic."

Nickerson and other local officials said federal officials so far have not been very responsive to pleas for financial help.

On Tuesday, a spokesperson with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services referred questions about Afghan evacuee hospitalizations to the Department of Homeland Security, which did not return several messages seeking comment.

Both of Virginia's senators -- Tim Kaine, D, and Mark Warner, D - have been monitoring the situation, their offices said.

"Senator Warner will continue to do everything he can to ensure that Virginia's hospitals - many of which are already strained with covid-19 patients - have the resources they need to care for our communities," a Warner spokeswoman said in a statement.

Nickerson said the groups she leads stepped in to oversee where Afghan evacuees were being hospitalized a few days after they began arriving at Dulles International Airport last month, when it became obvious that there was no federal system in place.

A federal contractor tasked with retrievingAfghan patients after they received hospital treatment often let them languish in those facilities, for as many as six hours, she said. The contractor - Cherokee Federal - did not respond to a message seeking comment Tuesday.

The lack of coordination, she said, has added to the trauma experienced by the evacuees who endured multiple hardships while fleeing Afghanistan, including being beaten by Taliban fighters on the way to Kabul's airport.

"This was terrible for the refugees who have already traveled for days, who have been awake for days, who have children who, often, haven't eaten in days," Nickerson said.

Among other things, the region's hospitals and emergency response departments have launched a shuttle service for the patients who are ready to be discharged and reunited with their families at the Dulles Expo Center, where their stay is often one or two days before being housed inside military installations in Virginia and elsewhere.

But with Afghan evacuees still arriving, the cost of providing such services is rising, said the region's top local administrators, who make up the board of the Northern Virginia Emergency Response System group.

In a joint Aug. 28 letter to Brian Carey, Virginia's secretary of Health and Human Resources, the officials called for federal and state dollars to go toward the effort.

"To meet the current need, we are leveraging what little resources we have to augment the existing team at the moment, but this is not sustainable with only a staff of 12," the letter said.

Nickerson said the organization - established nearly 20 years ago in the wake of the 9/11terrorist attacks - receives about $9 million in federal funds per year to coordinate a regional response to other emergencies, including the coronavirus pandemic and extreme weather events.

"We normally wouldn't be part of a refugee response effort," she said.

A top spokesperson for Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam, D, said the state anticipates more federal aid for the arriving Afghan evacuees.

"We are proud of the incredible work our localities and state agencies have done to welcome evacuees, and we look forward to continuing to coordinate with the federal government," Alena Yarmosky, the spokeswoman, said in a statement.

The financial burden has also fallen on the surrounding localities, officials said.

Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill said his county has transported 219 Afghan patients to area hospitals as of Tuesday. County employees have also kept track of those patients and reunited them with their families - at an estimated total cost of $300,000 so far that the county plans to bill to the federal government.

"It's been very difficult to even get with the federal government on what the next steps are," Hill said. "We've just been doing the best we can with what we know."

J. Stephen Jones, chief executive of the Inova Health System, said the impacts of the Afghan crisis aren't likely to end soon for hospitals.

By the end of the week, several dozen flights carrying Afghan evacuees are scheduled to arrive at Dulles from countries where they have been living in refugee sites, Jones noted.

Many of those people will go on to other parts of the country - including the Marine Corps's Quantico, Va., military base - where they are dealing with physical ailments and psychological trauma, he said.

"These are real human beings and taking care of people is complex," Jones said. "These folks have had their lives disrupted, and everything we can do to coordinate that care will be in their interest and in our community's best interest."
This graphic shows three locations in Washington, D.C., where organizers of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation prefer for a new memorial honoring post-9/11 veterans. For the memorial to be placed in the reserve area of the National Mall, Congress must approve an exemption to a 2003 law that prohibits more development in the space. (Contributed by the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation)

WASHINGTON  When 13 U.S. service members were killed in a bombing at the Kabul airport in Afghanistan on Aug. 26, Americans across the country found ways to pay tribute.

Veterans and service members gathered at the Iowa Jima Memorial in Arlington., Va., for a candlelight vigil, and hundreds of Americans marched in San Clemente, Calif. San Clemente, a military town, is home to Camp Pendleton, where 10 of the dead troops were based.

Across the Northeast, breweries and restaurants lined up 13 beers, reserving one for each service member who died. Small ceremonies were held in other parts of the United States, from North Carolina to Ohio, Wisconsin and Arizona, in the hometowns of the service members who died and in places they had never been.

The instinct to gather and memorialize is natural, said Marina Jackman. And she argued its past time America had a dedicated place to honor veterans and service members of the Global War on Terrorism.

Jackman, an Army veteran and military spouse, is the president of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.

With the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks Saturday, the foundation is putting a renewed focus toward establishing a Global War on Terrorism Memorial as a place for veterans to gather and other Americans to learn about conflicts such as Afghanistan and Iraq. However, the foundation has received some pushback from Congress, which must pass legislation in order for the memorial to be placed on the National Mall.

We inherently turn to each other at times like these, especially in the veteran community, she said. I cant help but think we really dont have a place to call our own to do that.

The bombing last month was the deadliest attack against U.S. forces in Afghanistan since Aug. 6, 2011. It occurred while the world was watching U.S. forces rush to evacuate Americans and Afghan allies from Kabul, which had been taken over just days earlier by the Taliban.

The U.S. military officially withdrew from Afghanistan on Aug. 30, marking the end of its 20-year mission in the country. The closing of that chapter, along with the 20th anniversary of 9/11, has led to an urgency among Gold Star families who want to ensure their loved ones are remembered for decades to come.

I've seen it described as like a scab kind of ripped off all over again, Jackman said of the past few weeks. Its been a very sensitive time for these families, theres that sense of heightened urgency. They want to make sure their loved ones are not forgotten.

Jackman and other foundation members are striving to establish the memorial on the National Mall. The effort has been underway since 2015, but its recently hit an obstacle.

In 2003, Congress approved a law deeming the National Mall complete and prohibiting any more development in a section described as the reserve. The reserve encompasses the central area of the National Mall, from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and from the White House to the Jefferson Memorial, as well as from the Tidal Basin to the Potomac River.

The law was approved because of the concern over a loss of open space on the mall. Between 1980 and 2000, seven new memorials were established there.

In order to create a Global War on Terrorism Memorial, Congress must pass legislation that would exempt it from the 2003 law.

This is important enough to have it in that sacred space, Jackman argued. It sends a message to how we value the service of this generation  the generation of our nations longest war.

Legislation was introduced in the House and Senate last year to exempt the memorial from the 2003 law, but it failed to gain traction in Congress. Jackman is trying again this year.

Reps. Jason Crow, D-Colo., and Mike Gallagher, R-Wisc., reintroduced the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act earlier this year. Sens. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, and Maggie Hassan, D-N.H., are leading the bill in the Senate.

The Senate subcommittee on national parks, which is part of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, held a hearing on the issue earlier in the summer. Jackman is optimistic the bill will make its way through the Senate. The biggest obstacle, she said, is the House.

Forty family members of deceased service members wrote in June to Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, asking him to hold a hearing about the bill.

As we pass a significant marker in the Global War on Terrorism with the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan ahead of the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks, we believe that the time is now right for the GWOT Memorial to be constructed, the families wrote. Such a memorial will serve as a touchstone for the nation  as we honor, remember, reflect, and heal. It will help our society turn the page on a long chapter in history, during which so many gave so much.

Grijalvas office responded to the letter Tuesday evening. In a letter, he wrote he doesnt disagree with the merit of the memorial, but he argued the bill might go too far in outlining specific locations where it should be located.

There are issues we need to resolve to everyones satisfaction before finalizing the bill, Grijalva wrote. With those issues in mind, it is important that this committee hold hearings of its own to better understand the merits of the proposal and determine the best path forward.

Grijalva didnt say when he would hold a hearing, only that his staff would schedule it before the end of the year.

Jackman said Tuesday that she was disappointed Grijalva hadnt yet added a hearing to the calendar.

We just hope Congress will give us the opportunity to at least have our elected officials have the conversation, Jackman said. It's too important not to.

While the memorial foundation is lobbying Congress for the exemption, the rest of the process to establish the memorial is on hold. The federal process is 24 steps, and site selection involves steps nine through 12.

If Congress does pass an exemption that allows for the memorial to be built on the National Mall, it will likely take at least another four to five years before the memorial is established, Jackman said. Later steps include fundraising and deciding the memorials design.

Jackman said the foundation could hold a nationwide competition to select a design. The exact guidelines havent been decided, but organizers want the memorial to capture the fact that the Global War on Terrorism has been fought by a diverse group of volunteer service members across multiple generations. They also want the memorial to pay homage to military families and acknowledge the mental health struggles faced by many post-9/11 veterans.

While the memorial could be a place for veterans and service members to gather, Jackman also believes it could serve as an educational tool for Americans who werent alive during the 9/11 terrorist attacks or old enough to understand the fallout.

Ive heard people refer to it as the Pearl Harbor of our generation, because the younger generation just doesnt connect with it so viscerally the way we do, Jackman said. Its already been so long that its starting to have the effect of the history book chapters on it getting shorter and shorter.
Retired Army Col. Marilyn Wills was working at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, when a highjacked airplane crashed into the building. She and others escaped by forcing out a second-floor window above the damaged wall shown here. (Department of Defense)

Lt. Col. Marilyn Wills sat in a 9 a.m. meeting on Sept. 11, 2001, waiting for her turn to speak. The 16 people in the conference room knew nothing about planes crashing into the World Trade Center in New York City that morning.

When American Airlines Flight 77 slammed into the Pentagon at about 9:37 a.m., the blast launched Wills from her chair to the other side of the table. At first, she thought there was some sort of construction accident, she said because that section of the building had recently been renovated.

The room went dark. Wills reached for the doorknob, but it was too hot to grab, so she began crawling to the other exit. Another woman, a civilian, clung to her belt as they formed a small caravan of survivors in search of a safe exit. The womans nylon pantyhose had begun to melt to her legs, and she told Wills that she didnt think she could continue.

Oh yes, you can. Just get on my back. Ill carry you, Wills said she told the woman.

With smoke filling the air, the small group forced a second-floor window out of its frame and began helping each other out, eventually forming a human ladder with those below them. Wills wanted to go back to look for more people, but a colonel told her no. He ordered her to go through the window.

The only [order] in the Army I did not want to obey, Wills said. She thought of those she knew were still inside, including Marian Serva, a congressional affairs contact officer for the Army.

She had a daughter who was getting ready to go to college, and the relationship she had with her daughter is the relationship I wanted to have with my girls. So I think of her often, and I think of her daughter, Wills said.

Serva died that day, along with 124 other Defense Department personnel. The 59 people aboard Flight 77 also died at the Pentagon. In New York City and Shanksville, Pa., officials grappled with devastation left by the three other hijacked commercial airplanes used in the coordinated terrorist attack. In total, nearly 3,000 Americans died that day.

Wills began her Army career as military police, but was serving on 9/11 as a congressional affairs liaison for the Armys personnel office, known as the G-1. Now a retired colonel, she joined three other retired Army officers on Wednesday to discuss what it was like to be inside the Pentagon on 9/11 as the 20th anniversary approaches Saturday.

In the G-1 office alone, 29 Army personnel died, including Lt. Gen. Timothy Maude, the deputy chief of staff.

Four retired Army officers spoke Wednesday about their experiences surviving the 9/11 terrorist attack at the Pentagon. Between Defense Department personnel and the passengers aboard American Airlines Flight 77, 184 people died at the Pentagon that day. The youngest was 3 years old, the oldest 71. (Department of Defense)

Transitioned to war

The 9/11 terrorist attacks sparked a drastic change in American military operations. What had been a relatively calm period for the military transitioned to war immediately, said retired Col. Mark Lewis, who works now as the acting assistant secretary of the Army for manpower and reserve affairs. On 9/11, he was the G-1s director of plans and resources.

Less than a month after 9/11, American military forces invaded Afghanistan, beginning a war that would become the longest in U.S. history. Troops later invaded Iraq, and the two countries quickly became the frontlines of Americas Global War on Terror.

Though troops still deploy to Iraq, the war there ended in 2011. Operations ended in Afghanistan on Aug. 31 after weeks of a chaotic evacuation effort at the airport in Kabul.

I'm glad that it's over. Now it's ours to remember those that gave that sacrifice. We're not naive enough to believe it's going to be the last time. We just need to be ready, and the generations that come after us have got to be ready, Lewis said.

Taking the opportunity to discuss 9/11 on the anniversary of the attacks is one way to do that. Those who died on 9/11 were just the tip of the iceberg of life lost, he said.

Retired Col. Roy Wallace, who still works at Army G-1 as the assistant deputy chief of staff, said he understood the gravity of 9/11 when he realized that these wars were a different kind of war.

The enemy that we've been fighting for the last 20 years disappears in a puff of smoke. It's an ideal. It's not a country, he said.

Retired Col. Gerry Kitzhaber, who works now as with the assistant secretary of the Army for manpower and reserve affairs, said it wasnt until hed evacuated the building on 9/11 that he had some idea about what had happened. Standing in a center courtyard at the Pentagon, he noticed some Air Force personnel gathered around something on the ground  a piece of airplane about the size of a turkey platter, he said.

Once outside the Pentagon, Kitzhaber spoke to a delivery man who had seen the plane fly into the building.

The next thing he said kind of took us by surprise. He said he could see the people in the windows of the airplane, as it came in. We just didn't know how to process that, he said.

Freedom isnt free

While sharing his story, Lewis became emotional when he spoke of remembering Maude, who he described as the quintessential general  smart, focused and caring.

Lewis should have been inside Maudes office on 9/11 when the plane struck the Pentagon. He went to see him for a scheduled meeting at 9:15 a.m., but was told to come back. The general was busy and behind schedule, Lewis was told by Deborah Ramsaur, Maudes secretary, who also died that day.

Wallace, who had also been in Maudes office that morning, said he continues to share his story about the experience on 9/11 so that people remember freedom isnt free. Two years ago, he spoke to seniors at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., where the only future officers who were alive on 9/11 were still in diapers.

If you aren't a student of history, there's a wise man who said, you're doomed to repeat it, he said of his message to cadets and other groups to which he speaks. I think the real message is the resilience that came out of it, and not the actual [acts of terrorism].

The four retired officers said they all eventually went back to the Pentagon to work. Wills recalled the smell of fumes, burning bodies and electrical wires that lingered long after the attacks.

I'd walk down the hallways, and I would think that I saw a ghost because I knew I saw Marian. I knew I saw Gen. Maude. I knew I saw these people, she said. It was difficult, when I would go sit in the new general's office, and they had opened up a flight path to fly back over the Pentagon again. As I'm sitting in a meeting, I'm watching these planes go by.

Her new boss understood, she said. And with time and work, Wills said her fear lessened, because I knew I had to continue to serve.
The Veterans Museum and Educational Center that was located on Beach Street, and then moved to the Disabled American Veterans building in Holly Hill, is coming back to Daytona Beach. The museum that has thousands of war artifacts, everything from a piece of a Japanese fighter plane found at Pearl Harbor to a brick from the Hanoi Hilton, will be located in the Cornelia Young Library building on the beachside. (Nigel Cook, The Daytona Beach News-Journal/TNS)

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Tribune News Service)  In its eight-year existence, the Veterans Museum and Education Center has had three different homes.

The little museum with thousands of war artifacts has moved from Ormond Beach to Daytona Beach to Holly Hill. The nonprofit organization's leaders always wanted to be headquartered in Daytona Beach, and now that's about to happen.

At their meeting Wednesday night, city commissioners agreed to lease the city-owned Cornelia Young Memorial Library to the veterans museum for the next 20 years.

"We are very happy to come back to Daytona Beach," veterans museum President Jose Rosa told city commissioners. "We feel we never should have left. Thank you so much for bringing us back to Daytona Beach where we belong."

"Welcome home," said City Commissioner Paula Reed.

The new lease agreement ends a protracted battle for the museum's leaders, who lobbied hard for a few years to move into the city government-owned recreation center on City Island across from Jackie Robinson Ballpark.

The deteriorating building a half block east of Beach Street was built in 1943 to give soldiers, the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps and locals a place overlooking the Halifax River to dance and have fun. In recent decades the structure slid into disrepair, and since it was boarded up in 2012 it's been plagued with mold, water damage, buckling floorboards and peeling paint.

The military museum's leaders pleaded for a chance to fix up the wooden-floored rec center that had been used for everything from square dancing to elections to public meetings. But last year only two city commissioners expressed an interest in sinking money into the concrete block structure.

The museum's attempts to move into Daytona Beach International Airport also fizzled.

The Veterans Museum and Education Center has finally found a permanent home in the historic Cornelia Young Library in Daytona Beach. Pictured is museum volunteer Richard Lyons getting artifacts ready for the move out of the museum's old Beach Street location last year, when the nonprofit moved to Holly Hill. (Nigel Cook, The Daytona Beach News-Journal/TNS)

The long journey home

The veterans museum was originally housed in 400 square feet of exhibit space at Ormond Beach City Hall. Then in 2016 the museum moved to the second floor of the Tic Toc shop building on Beach Street in downtown Daytona Beach, where it had 1,800 square feet of display space.

The Tic Toc shop owners told museum leaders a few years ago they were going to need the space back, and the veterans reluctantly moved to Holly Hill last fall when it was time to go.

The museum struck a deal to take over much of the Disabled American Veterans building on 8th Street in Holly Hill, located a short distance south of LPGA Boulevard between Nova Road and Ridgewood Avenue.

They thought they had finally found a place where they could settle in for at least three to five years and spread out their constantly growing collection of war treasures for all to see.

They have rifles from the Revolutionary War, War of 1812, Civil War, World War I and World War II. They also have a brick from the Hanoi Hilton, an internment camp in North Vietnam where American prisoners of war were held, interrogated and tortured in the 1960s and 1970s.

Also in their collection is a Japanese fighter plane found on Ford Island, the center of the attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. And they have Communion cups made out of 50-caliber bullets, as well as a desk used by Douglas MacArthur, the American five-star general who commanded the Southwest Pacific forces during World War II.

Now they have 3,867 square feet of space inside a permanent home for their many remnants of American military service and conflicts.

They'll operate out of the one-story building located on the southeast corner of Peninsula Drive and Vermont Avenue. The century-old library is located on the beachside one block south of East International Speedway Boulevard.

When their current lease ends in September 2041, they'll have an option to renew for another 10 years.

Their rent will be no problem to cover: $10 per year. But the museum's leaders will be responsible for the building's interior and exterior maintenance, utility bills and some insurance coverage.

'It's an excellent, excellent resource'

The museum's new home was originally built in 1916 by Civil War Capt. Charles Young. He donated the property to the city in memory of his late wife.

Covenants in the building's original deed dictated that the structure was to be used as a library in perpetuity. If it was ever used for anything else, ownership and control was to be returned to Young or his heirs.

In the 1970s, Volusia County took over operation of the library, but the city maintained the building and city ownership continued.

In 1992, the library was added to the U.S. Register of Historic Places. The library remained in full operation until 2010, when county government budget cuts forced the doors to close.

It didn't appear the property would be used as a library any longer, so the city spent a few years searching for Young's heirs. None of his relatives could be located, and in 2013 city commissioners approved a measure allowing the building east of the Halifax River to be used for weddings, parties and meetings.

In 2017, the city allowed the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 44 to start using the building. Last month the city struck a deal with the Coast Guard Auxiliary to relocate to a city-owned building on the west side of the river.

"There are no claims to return (the library) to the family and exercise the reverter," City Attorney Robert Jagger said at Wednesday night's City Commission meeting.

Deputy City Manager Jim Morris also noted that the veterans museum will house books, research items and displays and will function as an educational place  all similar to a library.

"We are an educational center," Rosa said. "We have a large number of books and movies."

State Sen. Tom Wright was at the meeting, and he told commissioners he would work with the Florida Department of Transportation to try to get signs on the interstate directing people to the new museum location.

Mayor Derrick Henry said the museum has been highly ranked on Tripadvisor.

"This is giving people something to do when they come to Daytona Beach," he said. "It's an excellent, excellent resource for our young people and for all."

"We need to have the world's most famous war museum," Wright said after referencing Daytona being the World's Most Famous Beach.

2021 www.news-journalonline.com.

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Stillwater, OK (74074)

Today

Sunshine and a few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 91F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mainly clear skies. Low 66F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.
Changes to the SunCommercial's back end processing means the e-edition is getting a facelift. The biggest change is the e-edition, by default, is now presented in Text view.
Nigel Tutt

Chief Executive of Priority One

The recent return to lockdown was not unexpected by many Western Bay businesses, but the swift nature of it may have caught some by surprise.

A few hours doesnt leave a lot of time to shut down a factory or find a home for fresh produce. Unfortunately, many of those most affected are smaller businesses, with less capability to bounce back, and they will need to take every bit of the wage subsidy and resurgence payments they are eligible for.

Its hard to know how the scale of this lockdown will affect the economy, but Treasury estimates are useful  level four is thought to reduce economic activity by 26 per cent, and level three by 14 per cent.

Retail and hospitality spend will be hit hard, and locally we think it will reduce by about $20m per week in level four  around half of what would normally be spent. Again, its the smaller businesses that miss out.

Businesses have been a lot better prepared for lockdown this time though, and the capacity to have staff working from home is much better. Businesses also come into it with the knowledge that our overall economy is in good shape and that we will bounce back relatively quickly.

Domestic demand has been very strong over the last year, which has helped many businesses out.

Last years lockdown saw a sharp rise in unemployment, but I dont think well see that this time. Most businesses know that the economy will bounce back. The lockdown is shorter, and staff were in short supply just a couple of weeks ago.

Itll be a testing ride into the end of the year though; theres no guarantee that we wont get another lockdown before the end of 2021 and we are still a very long way from being able to open up to the rest of the world.

This is important for a trading nation, especially when the rest of the world is opening up.

There are a couple of things that people can do to help local businesses out.

Firstly, keep spending locally  we saw the consumer sector of the economy propped up by this over the last year and we need to keep it going. We can do this in level three and four, and good examples might be buying a voucher at a shop for use later, supporting a local restaurant doing takeaways in level three, or prioritising a local vendor over a national one, even if it costs a little more.

Secondly, get vaccinated. With the Delta variant we will need a very conservative strategy until we have enough of the population out of the firing line. While we dont know exactly what freedoms a high level of vaccinations will buy us, we know what will happen if we dont  more lockdowns with the accompanying damage to businesses, mental health, livelihoods and our lifestyle.

Beyond that, we need strong vaccinations to eventually open the border, which will benefit our exporting businesses and tourism sectors.

For some perspective, despite this setback New Zealand is still the best place in the world to be  were resilient, starting from a great base and I have every confidence we will fight our way back.

Photo: John Borren.
Inequities in prostate cancer testing allow too many men to die, say experts.

"We need to screen, or prostate cancer wont be seen." Thats the message from the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand - PCFNZ, which has done a deep dive into new research that shows how effective a screening programme could be.

For its launch of Blue September, supporting the 42,000 men currently battling prostate cancer in our country, PCFNZ CEO Peter Dickens is renewing calls for a national screening programme.

Each year, about 3,500 Kiwi men are told they have prostate cancer. Instead, wed like thousands more to be told they dont, says Peter.

A quick, simple blood test is all it takes to help save the lives of countless New Zealand fathers, husbands, sons, brothers and friends. But the current system  where Kiwi men have to request the blood test through their GP, or wait to be offered it  isnt working. We need to be smarter about how we diagnose this cancer, because early detection is key.

And he has the full backing of Associate Professor Kamran Zargar from the Department of Surgery at the University of Auckland. Assoc. Prof. Zargar and his research fellow, Dr Bashar Matti have just completed a wide-ranging study into how prostate cancer  the most common cancer to affect men in New Zealand  is diagnosed.

Clandestine community based screening which is unfunded, unorganised, and inequitable are just some of the words Assoc. Prof. Zargar uses to describe the current prostate-specific antigen (or PSA) testing regime in New Zealand.

At the moment, we test opportunistically, and have done so for the past 25 years, begins Assoc. Prof. Zargar.

Sometimes, a GP will suggest the test, other times it may be added to another group of unrelated blood tests but largely, men need to specifically ask for it. Worst of all, many men, whom for various reasons, dont have the opportunity for regular GP visits, are never offered the test.

Assoc. Prof. Zargar says the evidence of his research  which included assessing every PSA test performed in New Zealand over a 13-year period, between 2006 and 2018  points to many imbalances in the system.

Maori, for instance, were significantly less likely to receive a PSA test compared to Pakeha and other ethnic groups.

Our research shows less than half of eligible Maori men undergo regular PSA testing.

Furthermore, Maori men are also more likely to die from prostate cancer than non-Maori, as are all men in rural or semi-rural locations.

The higher prostate cancer mortality rate in Maori men may well be related to testing as we have observed that Maori who do not have regular PSA tests are almost five times more likely to die from prostate cancer, than those Maori men who are regularly tested.

We should have a contemporary look at the role of PSA testing, in the context of advanced imaging, diagnosis and treatment options. Early diagnosis of significant prostate cancer can be achieved, while avoiding over-diagnosis and over-treatment. We cannot use outdated data and debunked arguments to dismiss the value of appropriately utilised PSA testing.

We must aim for a structured, risk adopted population-based approach for early detection of prostate cancer, as we have with breast cancer. This approach would give all Kiwi men the same information, service and support, says Assoc. Prof. Zargar. It would be equitable.

One in eight Kiwi males develops prostate cancer in his lifetime  the disease affects more New Zealanders than breast cancer does. About 650 men die as a result of prostate cancer annually.

But the PSA blood test is a simple diagnostic tool, says Dickens, that we must use more wisely  and widely.

Were urging the Ministry of Health to consider more broadly an effective program for early detection of prostate cancer to help us save the lives of our men. In the meantime, we encourage all men between 50 and 70 to get regular prostate check-ups with their GP or medical centre, and men aged 40 and over, for those with a family history cancer.

Blue September, which this year aims to raise $1m to fund further research into prostate cancer and support services for men who are diagnosed, began on September 1.

Wed love Kiwis to get on board by making a donation, purchasing some of our merchandise or holding a Blue Do.

Blue Dos can take the shape of blue-themed morning teas, quizzes, sporting or social events with proceeds going to PCFNZ, which receives no government funding currently.

Of course, were asking our supporters to do all of this safely and in a socially distanced environment, should we continue to be under Covid-19 related restrictions, says Peter. But we know how creative our Blue September crew are and we cant wait to see what they come up with.

Do Something Blue this Blue September  find out more at www.blueseptember.org.nz.
Bay of Plenty

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Western Bay of Plenty Mayor Gary Webber has called for patience from residents as a storm brews regarding Three Waters Reform in Tauranga and the surrounding region.

Webbers plea comes as various ratepayer groups in the Western Bay and Tauranga communities call for more transparency, with some even suggesting a referendum is necessary to make the decision.

The Government is currently asking for feedback from Councils regarding plans to transfer management of New Zealands three water services - drinking water, wastewater and stormwater - from the 67 local councils to four regional entities.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Tauranga City Council would fall into the newly formed Central North Island entity with councils from Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Taranaki and parts of Manawatu-Whanganui joining them.

Some ratepayer groups have shared disappointment with the plans, suggesting major rates-funded assets and infrastructure risk being lost to central Government.

Keith Hay, secretary for the Waihi Beach Residents and Ratepayers Association, is displeased at what he believes is a lack of consultation from WBOPDC.

It is extremely disappointing that Council refuses to consult with their ratepayers as most other councils are doing, he says.

They dont have a mandate from ratepayers to make any decisions on Three Waters without consultation.

Two prominent Tauranga ratepayer groups have also penned letters to Tauranga City Council expressing their displeasure at the proposals and perceived lack of consultation.

Both the Papamoa Residents and Ratepayers Association and the Mount Maunganui Residents, Ratepayers and Retailers Association call on a referendum regarding any Three Waters reform in Tauranga City Council areas. That mindset is also backed by the Tauranga Ratepayers Alliance.

In the Western Bay, Mayor Webber has taken to the Councils Facebook page to address concerns. He highlights the fact that, at present, participation remains voluntary and that WBOPDC are not yet in a position where a decision has to be made.

Right now we are not being asked to decide to opt in or out of the reform, says Webber.

Like all councils, we've been given an eight-week window to study the Government's proposal, understand the likely effect it would have on us and provide feedback to the Government by October 1.

He says WBOPDCs concerns and questions over the reforms vary, including undertaking an analysis of Council information to assess the impacts of Three Waters and comparing the reform scenario to that in which Council continues to deliver water services.

This analysis covers several areas including service levels, finance and funding, workforce and capability, and social, community and economic well-being, he says.

Webber says he understands why the community has a vested interest in how the areas Three Waters services are delivered.

However, with the Government still waiting for feedback, not an opt-in, from councils, it is not yet the appropriate time for extensive community consultation.

Many of the details of the programme are still unclear, including whether participation remains voluntary, he says.

Which is why it is too early to ask you what you think.

Remember, the reform programme is led by the Government, not by councils. Were still receiving information on the reform proposals because we still have questions about it. Fortunately, we have not yet been asked to make any final decision.

So before we can have a community conversation, we need to understand the final proposal, what opportunities, risks and trade-offs it presents, and what decision councils are being asked to make.

He says that further information from the Government is expected after councils have given their feedback, sometime after October 1.

At this point, he believes a clearer picture of what Three Waters reform will entail for the Western Bay region will be apparent, allowing for feedback from the community.

While there is still uncertainty about the final outcome I can assure you that our communities will be a part of the conversation when the time is right, says Webber.
The unsettled week of weather continues, with MetService forecasting severe weather for some regions as a series of fronts sprint north across the country.

The weekend brings a brief respite before the next system moves in from the south.

A collection of Severe Weather Watches and Warnings for strong winds and heavy rain are in place today.

An active front moves onto the South Island today before speeding north during Friday. We have strong wind Warnings across most of the South Island as well as the lower North Island. Gale northwesterly winds are expected ahead of this front, with winds gusts of 140 km/h possible in exposed places in the Canterbury High Country, says MetService meteorologist Ashlee Parkes.

In addition to the strong winds, western areas will see heavy rain.

We have heavy rain Watches and Warnings in place for much of the western South Island today and Friday. There is also a risk of thunderstorms for western areas of both islands during Friday as this front makes its way north.

Alongside the rain is the potential for snow across some alpine passes on Friday as cooler air follows in behind the front.

This front will track north and cross the Auckland and Northland regions overnight Friday with short-lived gales and heavy rain, followed briefly by cooler southwesterlies, but calmer weather for many parts of the country on Saturday.

The settled weather doesnt last for long, with another front moving onto the lower half of the country on Sunday. This will bring another spell of wet and windy weather to the country early next week.

While the current Severe Weather forecasts cover until the end of Friday, it is likely that more Watches and Warnings will be issued for the next system.
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China notifies new rules to regulate foreign ships in its waters

In a bid to regulate foreign ships, China notified new maritime rules warranting vessels carrying radioactive materials, bulk oil, chemicals and a host of other supplies to report the details of the cargos upon their entry into Chinese waters.

The new rules are expected to increase tensions if China strictly enforces them in the disputed South China Sea and the Taiwan straits where the US and its allies have been conducting naval expeditions, challenging Beijing's claims to assert the freedom of navigation. Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square-mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. According to a notice from China's maritime safety authorities issued last weekend, operators of submersibles, nuclear vessels, ships carrying radioactive materials and ships carrying bulk oil, chemicals, liquefied gas and other toxic and harmful substances are required to report their detailed information upon their visits to Chinese territorial waters. In addition to these types of vessels, vessels that may endanger the maritime traffic safety of China prescribed by laws should also follow the new regulation which took effect from September 1st, the state-run Global Times quoted the notice from Maritime Safety Administration. Those vessels should report the name, call sign, current position and next port of call and estimated time of arrival. The name of shipborne dangerous goods and cargo deadweight are also required in the report, the report said. Chinese experts told the Global Times they view the rollout of such maritime regulations as a sign of stepped-up efforts to safeguard China's national security at sea by implementing strict rules to boost maritime identification capability. The reference to submersible reportedly refers to unmanned spy devices found by the Chinese fishermen in China's coastline. Song Zhongping, a military expert and TV commentator, said the new announcement showcases China's determination to regulate the foreign vessels' right of use within the country's territorial waters, which should be based on proper identification. Tensions between China and the US over Taiwan and the South China Sea coupled with growing discord between the two countries over the origin of coronavirus, Tibet, Xinjiang and Hong Kong have remained high after Joe Biden took over as the President of America in January this year. On August 27th, the Chinese Defence Ministry termed as provocative the crossing of two US naval ships through the Taiwan Strait, in what the US Pacific Fleet described as a routine operation. This was the eighth time the US naval ships passed through the channel after Biden became the president. The frequent provocative moves [the passage of American vessels] are of a very bad nature and show the US is the biggest destroyer of peace and stability and the biggest maker of security risks across the Taiwan Strait, Chinese defence ministry spokesman Tan Kefei said. The US Navy and Air Force also conducted such missions in the disputed South China Sea to assert freedom of navigation challenging China's claims of sovereignty over the area.




Crowley and Shell to build and charter largest LNG bunker barge in US

Crowley Maritime Corporation has signed a long-term time charter with Shell NA LNG, LLC, (Shell) providing for the building and operation of a new, U.S.-built, LNG bunker barge.

Upon construction, the barge will be the largest Jones Act-compliant vessel of its kind, helping to expand current network capacity and meet demands for cleaner energy. The new bunker barge will extend Crowleys commitment to deliver cleaner, innovative solutions to help the shipping industry continue on the path to decarbonization, said Tucker Gilliam, vice president, Crowley Shipping. Orders for ships fueled by liquefied natural gas continue to rise, and the vessel will provide Shell an innovative and reliable service to meet demands for more sustainable energy sources. The 416-foot-long barge will feature advanced technologies in cargo handling capabilities and increased transfer rates, including a state-of-the-art solution from Shell and Crowley Engineering Services to flexibly deliver LNG to various types of LNG containment systems. The transformative design will offer capacity for 12,000 m3 (3.17 million gallons) and product supply equipment to fully serve ocean carriers. The vessel becomes the second Jones Act-compliant bunker barge Shell has under long-term charter in the U.S. It is expected to be deployed to serve LNG-fueled ships that call on ports on the U.S. East Coast starting in 2024. Shell is dedicated to growing our LNG bunkering network across key trade routes, and this barge supports our commitment to helping provide our customers with the energy solution they are looking for, said Tahir Faruqui, general manager, Global DLNG for Shell. The shipping sector is making progress toward decarbonization, and LNG offers immediate emissions reduction with the potential to become a net zero emission marine fuel given the possible roles of bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. The vessel will be constructed at Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. This additional LNG barge will serve as another demonstration of our commitment to building and servicing sustainable maritime endeavors, both in the United States and globally, said Dario Deste, president and CEO of Fincantieri Marine Group. Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding is poised to deliver a different LNG barge later this year to a different client. Aligned to Crowleys actions under its New Energy division in support of the companys sustainability commitment, the expansion of LNG capacity will allow Crowley and its customers to realize more immediate emissions reductions and fast-track the transition to new energy sources that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.




Ras Laffan Port Arabian Gulfs first Green Award Incentive Provider

Qatar Petroleums Ras Laffan Port, located in Ras Laffan Industrial City, has become the first port in the Arabian Gulf to join the international Green Award network as an Incentive Provider for certified LNG carriers.

Qatar Petroleum and the Green Award Foundation have worked very closely to materialize this incentive to reward and recognize the efforts and investments of LNG ships that are adopting the latest environmental standards. The Green Award is a platform that recognises safety, quality and environmental performance in shipping by facilitating an international network of over 150 incentive providers that offer a wide range of benefits to its certificate holders. Green Award recipients demonstrate their commitment to continually improve their performance in safety and environment for shipping above and beyond international standards. As the premier location of the global LNG supply chain, Ras Laffan Port plays an integral role in providing international markets with LNG as an environmentally friendly source of energy. With more than 1,000 LNG tankers calling at Ras Laffan Port annually, its track record in promoting environmentally sustainable practices in shipping has been well established since its inception in 1996. Since then, Ras Laffan Port has also worked closely with Qatargas to support the certification of their LNG shipping fleet. His Excellency Mr. Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, President and CEO of Qatar Petroleum, congratulated Ras Laffan Port for qualifying as a Green Award Incentive provider, a move which he described as another landmark in Qatar Petroleums long standing commitment to environmentally sustainable practices in its operations. His Excellency Minister Al-Kaabi said: Through the Green Award for shipping, we are also building upon QPs track record of providing environmentally friendly energy by supporting sustainable practices in shipping as well. Ras Laffan Port believes that through this framework, certified tankers will continually strive to improve the environmental performance of their operations. Certified LNG Tanker Operators under the Green Award scheme will now be offered a discount on Port Dues making Ras Laffan Port the first in the region to do so. Mr. Jan Fransen, Executive Director of Green Award Foundation, said Ras Laffan Port is the first port in the Arabian Gulf to join the Green Award Foundation as an Incentive Provider. We appreciate the continued cooperation we have with Qatar, as Qatargas was involved in the setup of our ship certification program for LNG carriers in 2011, which later included LPG carriers as well. We welcome Ras Laffan Ports support to protect the marine environment which the Green Award has been pursuing for over 27 years.




Systems Navigator rollout of Dropboard at platform of TotalEnergies in Antwerp

The European Refining and Petrochemicals entity of TotalEnergies has selected Dropboard as its planning & scheduling platform for berths.

The technology is foreseen to be deployed at multiple sites, starting at the platform of TotalEnergies in Antwerp, the companys largest integrated complex in Europe. Dropboard is the link between the headquarters of TotalEnergies and the site scheduling teams facilitating real-time scheduling insights and plan updates. This, in combination with Systems Navigators advanced scheduling algorithms, results in reduced demurrage costs. Improved coordination of decision-making When data is not properly shared between stakeholders, it easily leads to suboptimal decision making. Furthermore, it is very inefficient to manage and consolidate data in multiple systems as it can result in data errors. Dropboard is connected to the IT landscape of TotalEnergies and shares information with their Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Business Intelligence platform to improve the transparency and communications between stakeholders working on multiple locations. The multi-user platform creates visibility on site constraints throughout the supply chain, enabling planners to make better (informed) decisions. Reducing demurrage costs Dropboard visualizes waiting times and predicts future demurrage costs. Users are able to identify the root causes of demurrage and take demurrage risks into account when making operational decisions. By harmonizing jetty planning for all sites, all entities are able to monitor demurrage predictions in the same tool using the same indicators. Dropboard users are alerted of events that have an impact on the planning. This facilitates risk mitigation and allows for plan optimization. On Systems Navigator side: We are proud to support the boosting of the efficiency of the platform in Antwerp by optimizing and harmonizing the business processes of the logistic operations. We are excited that Dropboard will play a major role in reducing demurrage costs and allowing planners to make better decisions at all sites where Dropboard is deployed.  stated Joost Smits, Systems Navigator Commercial Manager.




Zvezda hands over first Aframax-type tanker

The first Russian Aframax-type oil tanker  Vladimir Monomakh - was handed over to the customer, Rosnefteflot.

The ceremony of vessel delivery was held at Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex in the Far East. Vladimir Monomakh is the lead vessel of a series of Aframax type tankers. Tankers are designed for the transportation of crude oil and oil products in an unrestricted navigation area. Previously, such vessels were not constructed in Russia. Vladimir Monomakh was launched ahead of contract terms in May, 2020. Keel laying of the tanker was carried out on September 11, 2018 in the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The crew and trial crew of Zvezda, SSK, together with the shipyard specialists completed the plan of sea trials in full, having gained the most important experience in planning and organizing works at sea on new Aframax-type vessels. All systems of the vessel worked normally. Control presentation of the mechanisms was held to the RMRS and the vessel's customer-Rosnefteflot (a subsidiary of Rosneft, specializing in chartering and port support, implementation of shipbuilding projects and management of the sea and river fleet). In the near future, the Vladimir Monomakh will leave the shipyard's water area and make its first voyage. Aframax-type tankers are called green. They were created in line with high environmental safety standards. Main and auxiliary power plants can operate both on traditional and environmentally friendly fuel-liquified natural gas which is in line with the new regulations to limit emissions of sulfur oxides and greenhouse gases in the Baltic and Northern Sea. The tanker length is 250 meters, the width is 44 meters, the deadweight is 114 thousand tons, the speed is 14,6 knots, the ice class - ICE-1A. The vessel has comfortable conditions for the crew: there is a sauna, swimming pool, gym, each team member has his own cabin, high-speed Internet. The Zvezda Shipbuilding Complex is being created on the basis of the Far Eastern shipyard Zvezda by a Consortium of investors led by Rosneft on behalf of the President of Russia. Nowadays, Zvezda portfolio of orders comprises 12 Aframax-type tankers, of which 10 were ordered by Rosnefteflot.




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Sony Electronics announced an exciting new 5.1.2-channel soundbar today. The HT-A5000 supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and it also features two of Sonys own home-theater sound technologies: Vertical Surround Engine technology, to position sounds in a vertical space, and S-Force Pro Front Surround, to present a wider horizontal sound field.

The HT-A5000 is outfitted with built-in subwoofers and a pair of up-firing drivers that can bounce the height cues in immersive soundtracks off the ceiling to deliver the sensation of having speakers mounted over the viewing area. Dual beam tweeters bounce audio off the walls to the left and right of the speaker to further expand the surround-sound effect.

The speaker supports high-resolution audio, and its also compatible with Sonys immersive 360 Reality Audio format. Music in that format is available from Amazon Music HD, Deezer, Nugs.net, and Tidal.

Sony Electronics This close-up view of the left side of the HT-A5000 focuses on one of its upfiring drivers (top) and dual beam tweeters (side).

Pair the soundbar with a Sony Bravia TV, and the combo will use the TVs speakers as a discrete center channel to more precisely align the action on the screen with the soundtrack, thanks to Sonys Acoustic Center Sync technology. Another perk of using a Sony TV: All the soundbars configuration settings will automatically appear in the TVs Quick Settings menu. This feature works with Sonys Z9J series, A90J series, A80J series, X95J series, X90J series, X85J series, and X80J series TVs.

The soundbar features HDMI with eARC, with support for 8K HDR, 4K video with up to a 120Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision (you can read all about the differences between HDMI ARC and eARC at that link). Theres an optical input for use with TVs that predate HDMI.

Sony Electronics This X-ray view of the new Sony HT-A5000 soundbar exposes its built-in subwoofers, upfiring drivers, and dual-beam tweeters.

The speaker doesnt have an onboard digital assistant, but it works with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Theres an integrated Wi-Fi adapter, along with support for Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2. Bluetooth audio streaming is also supported.

The HT-A5000 will retail for $900, and consumers can order one now. For an even more immersive experience, buyers will be able to add Sonys model SA-RS3S wireless rear surround speakers ($350) and/or a wireless powered subwoofer to the system (either Sonys 200-watt model SA-SW3, $400 or the 300-watt SA-SW5, which goes for $700).
Forward-looking: This week, Intel announced that one of its subsidiaries is starting an automated taxi service in Munich and Tel Aviv next year, unveiling a new self-driving car for the task. This step is vital in the development of the company's automated driving technology.

Intel announced the news at the 2021 IAA Mobility event in Munich. Intel's automated driving subsidiary Mobileye revealed the new six-passenger autonomous vehicle it'll use for the service, starting in 2022. Called the AVKIT58, the car will be equipped with eight of Mobileye's EyeQ5 SoCs, which will allow for level 4 and level 5 driving automation, which should let it potentially operate without a safety driver at the wheel. They chose Germany because it is the first country to allow level 4 self-driving cars on its roads.

The vehicle's equipped technologies include a combination of cameras, radar sensors, and lidar sensors. It will work based on crowd-sourced map data from Mobileye's Road Experience Management.

Intel will operate the vehicles under its Moovit branda subsidiary handling transportation technology. In Germany, they will also be working with local mobility company Sixt. Customers who use Mobileye's taxi service will be able to order rides through either Moovit's or Sixt's mobile apps.

Mobileye has become somewhat of a competitor to Tesla in the automated vehicle space. Its use of lidar, combined with cameras to train their self-driving vehicles and give them awareness of their surroundings, contrasts with Tesla's method involving AI video training.

The IAA Mobility event is part of the larger German International Motor Show dedicated specifically to the future of transportation. It covers upcoming technology for things including cars, bikes, and urban planning. Even though the IAA Mobility event covers topics like sustainability and the environment, it has been met with protests accusing the event of greenwashing.
In context: Semiconductor demand is surging and an ongoing shortage of chips has pushed companies and governments to invest large amounts of money into establishing production capabilities outside of Asia. Samsung has big plans to conquer semiconductors and other key industries, and will be spending $205 billion towards those goals. A $17 billion chunk of that fund will go toward building a new chip plant in the US, most likely in one of two cities in Texas.

Earlier this week, Reuters reported that Samsung was evaluating two locations in the state of Texas for the construction of a new 5nm chip manufacturing plant, after becoming aware of plans to offer extensive property tax breaks for tech giants looking to bring their business to the region.

One of the locations is Austin, which is already home to one of Samsung's manufacturing facilities, while the other is the city of Taylor in Williamson County. Commissioners from Williamson County along with the Taylor City Council were unanimously in favor of the proposal, and an owner of the Texas Beer Company promised to create a Samsung co-branded Pale Ale beer if the company ever decided to go ahead with such a project.

However, a Samsung spokesperson explained that "no decision has been made by Samsung on a site for a potential expansion. All sites are under consideration and each community is performing the appropriate due diligence to put themselves in the best position for this opportunity. The actions by Williamson County and the City of Taylor are part of their due diligence."

Taylor city officials are no doubt excited about the project, as it's expected to create 1,800 jobs for the chip fab, as well as anywhere between 6,500 to 10,000 construction jobs. The facility would occupy an area of over 1,100 acres (4.45 square kilometers), which is much larger than the 350 acres Samsung had previously bought for its Austin factory.

That said, Taylor and Austin are only two of five potential locations under review by Samsung for what is internally called the "Star Project." Austin is reportedly not as attractive for the tech giant after an extended power outage in February led to a temporary shutdown of the existing factory there -- a $350 million loss. Phoenix and New York sites are also under consideration, but even less likely than the Austin site.

Samsung wants to start construction on the new chip manufacturing plant in early 2022 and have it operational by the end of 2024, so it won't be long before it'll announce its decision on the location of the new facility.
Why it matters: According to reports out of Germany, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) purchased spyware from Israel-based developer NSO. The software in question is the controversial spyware known as Pegasus. Pegasus has been used by other governments to spy on journalists and other non-criminal individuals.

German news outlet Deutsche Welle (DW) notes that the federal government held a closed-door session with the parliamentary Interior Committee of the Bundestag. In the meeting, it confirmed that the BKA bought Pegasus software from NSO Group in 2019. The agency made the purchase in "the utmost secrecy" against the advice of lawyers and privacy advocates who argued the software could do much more than German privacy laws allow.

Sources said that the version of Pegasus the BKA bought had "certain functions blocked to prevent abuse." However, what parts of the software were specifically disabled and how is unclear.

Pegasus is capable of circumventing security protocols in both iOS and Android operating systems. Citizen Lab confirmed as late as this year that Pegasus can easily escape security measures in iOS 14. It uses various techniques to capture everything from phone calls and text messages to emails, stored media, and contact information.

Nun ist es raus: #BKA nutzt Spyware #Pegasus #NSO. Liest man meine Schriftliche Frage aus 5/19 erneut, heit das womoglich, dass alle genannten Behorden die Spionagesoftware nutzen, obwohl diese offenkundig grundrechtswidrig ist. @zeitonline @holger_stark 1/2 pic.twitter.com/fuE0n2BXYi  Martina Renner (@MartinaRenner) September 7, 2021

Pegasus can also enable the microphone and video functions to spy in real-time. Operators can use it to record conversations, access settings, read location data, and even circumvent the encryption on text messages.

BKA Vice President Martina Link told the German parliamentary committee that while the BKA purchased the software, it has only used it to surveil organized crime and terrorism operations. Presumably, the BKA restricted this surveillance to what is allowed by German law. However, the agency was less than transparent about its operation of the software, revealing no specifics about the data it had obtained and the methods used.

NSO claims it has only sold the spyware to government entities, but privacy advocates say that is no assurance that the software will not be abused. Indeed, DW reported last July that various news outlets had uncovered a list of more than 50,000 phone numbers of potential Pegasus targets. Among them were human rights activists, journalists, multiple heads of state, government ministers, and senior diplomats.

Members of parliament are demanding "full clarification" from the BKA about who "specifically bears responsibility for the purchase and use of the spy software," referring to the revelation as a "nightmare for the rule of law." Likewise, German journalists are up in arms, demanding to know if they have been spied on and if their contacts have been compromised.

"[We want to know] whether journalists were spied on without their knowledge, whether their sources are still safe," said German Journalists' Association Chairman Frank Uberall, calling the BKA's actions "incomprehensible."
Editor's take: Amazon could shake up the television industry with its first branded sets, but they'll have to prove themselves first. Personally, I'd wait and let the early adopters evaluate the quality of the sets before throwing my money down. And you can almost guarantee that they'll be on sale come Black Friday time, so skipping the introductory pricing likely won't be a long-lasting punishment.

Amazon has introduced its first-ever Amazon-branded smart TVs, and theyll be available in the US starting next month.

Amazons first-gen sets are split into two product categories. The premium line, the Amazon Fire TV Omni Series, affords 4K Ultra HD as well as support for HDR10, HLG and Dolby Digital Plus. Theyll be available in screen sizes of 43, 50, 55, 65 and 75, with the two largest models also boasting slim bezels and support for Dolby Vision.

As the name suggests, the Fire TV Omni Series additionally comes with Amazons Fire TV experience baked right in, complete with far-field voice technology for hands-free Alexa controls. This functionality works whether the TV is on or off, allowing you to easily jump right into your favorite show without having to touch the remote.

The Amazon Fire TV 4-Series, meanwhile, is the more affordable alternative. These sets also combine 4K UHD resolution with HDR10 and HLG, and will be offered with screen sizes of 43, 50 and 55. The 4-Series additionally affords many of the same Alexa experiences as the Omni Series, but youll have to access them using the Fire TV Alexa Voice Remote.

Amazons branded televisions will be available exclusively at Amazon and Best Buy starting next month. Pricing starts at $409.99 for the 43 Omni Series and scales up to $1,099.99 for the 75 model, while the 43 4-Series commands $369.99 and scales up to $519.99 for the 55 model.

For a limited time, you can save $110 off the 50 Omni and 4-Series models, bringing them down to just $399.99 and $359.99, respectively (the price cut will be reflected at checkout).
Forward-looking: A team of researchers have devised a new method for protecting SSDs from ransomware attacks. It can detect ransomware, stop it in its tracks, and even recover stolen data in a matter of seconds. The cost should only be a minor increase in the SSD's latency.

The Register spoke with the researchers, who come from Inha University, the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST), the University of Central Florida (UCF), and the Cyber Security Department at Ewha Womans University (EWU). The system, called SSD-Insider, is supposedly almost 100 percent accurate and has been tested on real-world ransomware.

SSD-Insider works by recognizing certain patters in SSD activity that are known to indicate ransomware. "To recognize ransomware activity by viewing only the distribution of IO request headers, we have paid attention to a ransomwares very unique behavior, overwriting," reads the team's research paper proposing SSD-Insider. It specifically points out the behavior of ransomware like WannaCry, Mole, and CryptoShield.

"When ransomware activity is detected by SSD-Insider++, input/output to the storage is suspended," Inha researcher DaeHun Nyang told The Register. "During the suspension, users can remove the ransomware process."

After the ransomware is stopped, SSD-Insider can recover lost files due to the unique properties of SSDs. "SSDs always keep old versions of data that were overwritten by new data until they are permanently erased by [Garbage Collector]," the paper mentions. "SSD-Insider takes advantage of the built-in backup capability of SSDs. SSD-Insider keeps track of old versions of data inside SSDs and never removes them until the ransomware detection algorithm confirms that the new versions are not affected by ransomwares."

What's truly unique about SSD-Insider is that it works at the firmware level. The team designed SSD-Insider this way to help users who don't keep anti-ransomware software installed on their systems.

The paper also mentions the weaknesses of traditional software methods, like the ability of some ransomware to work against anti-virus software. SSD-Insider is also designed to have less CPU overhead than anti-ransomware software. The paper's abstract says SSD-Insider's software overhead is only around 147 to 254 nanoseconds.

In testing with WannaCry and other ransomware, SSD-Insider never missed any ransomware activity, and rarely detected false positives. In all tested scenarios, the False Rejection Rate (FRR) was zero percent. The False Acceptance Rate (FAR) was nearly zero. "We report that the worst background noise in terms of FRR came from IO-intensive and CPU-intensive jobs" the researchers write. "In terms of FAR, the worst scenario came mostly from heavy overwriting type, such as DataWiping and Database applications."

An antivirus researcher told The Register a method like SSD-Insider isn't foolproof. "The function leverages a delay in deletion which means that ransomware developers would and could still bypass this feature with the knowledge of how this antidote operates," said ESET UK's Jake Moore. In any case, users should still keep their data backed up.
(Photo : GettlyImages/ SOPA Images ) El Salvador bitcoin

El Salvador's president provided technical support from his official Twitter account hours after Bitcoin was adopted as legal tender.

This is because the digital wallet that was supposed to be used for transactions was deactivated.

El Salvador's President Provides Technical Support

El Salvador's Chivo wallet, which offers the public $30 worth of free bitcoin for those who sign up for the service, was launched on Sept. 7. El Salvador is the first country to have bitcoin as a legal tender.

However, only five hours later, the service was disconnected because of the lack of server capacity, according to The Wall Street Journal.

President Nayib Bukele, the president of El Salvador, was unfazed over what happened and asked for the public's patience.

The president announced that El Salvador's government had bought 150 bitcoins worth $21 million to add its current numbers. There are now 550 bitcoins available, which costs $26 million.

President Bukele then retweeted a journalist who claimed he had successfully paid for his meal at McDonald's by using bitcoin.

The president posted on his Twitter account that for those who have downloaded the chivo wallet and are still not registered, they can try to register now and notify them if there is an error or if the process works.

Also Read: El Salvador Denied By World Bank For its Legal Tender Request, Global Institution Cites Crypto's Impact in Environment

Protestors in San Salvador

On Sept. 7, more than 1,000 people protested in San Salvador. They burned tires and set off fireworks outside the Supreme Court.

According to Reuters, the protestors believe that the currency is the only ideal for big investors who wish to speculate with their economic resources.

Meanwhile, the value of bitcoin decreased on the same day that it was launched in the country. It went from $52,000 per coin to $42,000. It now recovered half of the loss.

Backlash on President Bukele

The president's critics warned that the media noise created by the adoption of bitcoin is just a distraction from the president's consolidation of political power, according to CNBC.

Ricardo Castaneda, a local economist, said that there had been a high degree of improvisation in the rollout of Chivo. The app asks for access to the user's microphone and contacts, which are not needed for the digital wallet.

Bitcoin may be a distraction, but given the government's decision to push through with the plan despite the opposition and the advice of financial experts, it could be an important part of President Bukele's project.

Recent polls showed that two-thirds of the citizens opposed the move to adopt cryptocurrency.

On Sept. 3, El Salvador's top court ruled that the 40-year-old president can run for a second term come 2024, overturning a ruling that prevented the re-election of presidents for a decade.

President Bukele has made several changes to the country's constitution. He now controls all three branches of the government.

Carlos Lopez Bernal, a professor at the University of El Salvador, said that President Bukele's moves are very predictable, and everything that he's done is just gearing towards his re-election campaign.

Last year, the president ordered troops into parliament as he laid out his military spending plan. As part of the anti-corruption campaign that he created, he removed five judges and the attorney general.

Last week, Congress approved a reform to fire all of the judges over 60 years old. The government has held secret negotiations with the country's powerful gangs, with the minutes of the meetings undisclosed.

Related Article: El Salvador President Notes No Capital Gains on Crypto Due to It Being a 'Legitimate Currency'

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Sophie Webster

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Blue Origin memes have spurred up on Twitter, and Elon Musk agrees with the entries that throw shade against Jeff Bezos' space company. It was known that Blue has sued NASA and SpaceX for its recent contract of the moon lander for not choosing their entry to the project. The lawsuit has led to a massive protest by Blue against the agency.

It was known that NASA awarded SpaceX with the Lunar Lander contract, where Bezos' Blue Origin has submitted its entry and made renders, designs, and other studies about it.

Ultimately, it was given to SpaceX and led to a massive protest led by Bezos and his company, along with a lawsuit.

Blue Origin Meme: Elon Musk Agrees

Twitter has a way of showing how statements meet or reach people and letting them in on an issue where they can discuss it and give their two cents. Here, a popular SpaceX and Tesla fan has said something against Bezos' Blue Origin and discussed the capabilities of Musk's space company that reached the CEO.

Pathole said that what Blue Origin made was a twice expensive lander that can only carry 5 tons, and it has no other purposes aside from the said mission. He compared it to what SpaceX did, a lander that can carry 20 times more than Blue's, at half the price.

That sums it up well!  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 8, 2021

The user has talked about the lunar lander contract for NASA, and the entries which SpaceX and Blue Origin have submitted during the initial bidding. Musk agrees that this was what was submitted and what both companies have set forth for their bid with NASA.

Also, it summed up the main purpose of the spacecraft to be built by either company, where NASA ultimately chose what the latter has given, a multi-functional lunar lander.

Read Also: Elon Musk asks Roscosmos Chief Favorite Tea, Will There Be a Collaboration with Russia in Space?

Blue Origin Meme: Suing Earth's Orbit

On the other hand, known space content influencer, Whole Mars Catalog has said that Blue Origin has "sued the Earth's atmosphere for making it difficult to reach orbit." The statement was noticed by the SpaceX CEO and laughed about it, without saying anything else.

  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 8, 2021



Last August, Musk also noticed another meme about Blue Origin's Project Jarvis, which was said to have copied the Starship project. Both spacecraft are known to be Stainless Steel in make and aims to land by themselves after launching.

Memes have a way of making real-life situations or happenings funny and sometimes talk about the irony of things when showcasing an issue.

SpaceX vs. Blue Origin

'SpaceX vs. Blue Origin' has been up quite some time, as the two Big Tech companies were compared on their performance, image, and releases for the past years. Both are focused on space and have CEOs that are known to be the richest in the world.

However, where they differentiate is the number of missions done and their reliability as a space company. In terms of career, SpaceX has done more missions than Blue, and it is an evident one amongst the public.

Related Article: Blue Origin Employees Resigned Days After CEO Jeff Bezos Flew to Space

This article is owned by Tech Times





Written by Isaiah Richard

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Amazon's Just Walk Out technology with the "Amazon One," and "Amazon Go" feature is coming to Washington D.C. and California's Whole Foods store in 2022. The venture is part of expanding the feature among users of the platform, offering a seamless and cashless checkout when going in and out to get the essentials.

Last August, users have been asked to provide their palm print biometrics in exchange for $10 worth of in-store credit at a store that supports Amazon One or Just Walk Out. The technology is aiming to expand and provide more branches for people to enjoy the cashier-less experience, without the hassle of queuing up and waiting.

Amazon Just Walk Out Coming to Washington, California in 2022

Amazon is expanding its Just Walk Out technology after centering its ventures in Seattle for the extent of its initial releases and availability to the public. According to the e-commerce company, the expansion has targets in different locations where there are Whole Foods stores, and it would be available for everyone.

The venture would focus on Washington D.C. and Sherman Oaks, California, which have the popular grocery store up and running already.

Amazon would only need to integrate its Amazon One technology, and the venture would be good to go. However, the company said that the venture would come to these branches by 2022.

The e-commerce company has focused its ventures on creating several branches for its self-checkout stores, and it has centered on the state of Washington where Amazon is based. The venture is aiming to bring autonomy to the store, something which would have been a massive need amidst this pandemic.

Read Also: Amazon Music Hosts Imagine Dragons' New Album On Amazon Live

Amazon One Payment

Palm print biometrics technology for payment may sound a bit vague, but it is something that Amazon has propriety over, as they are the ones that utilized it. Instead of a separate card or using one's smartphone for the venture, the company focused on biometrics to make Amazon One work for anyone.

Users only need to create an account via Amazon One and link their credit cards or preferred payment methods, which the service recognizes for this. Either a "Just Walk Out" technology or a palm print scanner would be a massive change in the way a person would go to a store and shop for needs and wants.

Cashierless Whole Foods

Queuing up and waiting for the cashier to finish may be troublesome or time demanding for people, and a lot going on with regards to the checkout line. Good thing is that Whole Foods would soon ditch these lines and counters in favor of a self-checkout.

However, the public is still waiting on Amazon for this, as it is not yet well distributed to Whole Foods across the country.

Related Article: Amazon's Jeff Bezos is Linked with Scientists Looking for 'Fountain of Youth' Technology

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Isaiah Richard

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Image from Unsplash Website) Woman Suing Hospital for $3.5 Million After DNA Test Reveals She was Switched at Birth

A woman is now suing a hospital for $3.5 million after a DNA test reveals that she was actually switched at birth! This 19-year old woman from Spain is taking official legal action directly against local health authorities after she had learned that she was actually swapped at birth with another baby!

San Millan de Logrono Hospital at Fault

According to the report by Reuters, the unidentified woman was born back in 2002 at the official San Millan de Logrono hospital located in La Rioja just hours after yet another baby girl. Both babies were reportedly placed in incubators before they were then handed out to the wrong parents!

The story by Complex reports that a subsequent investigation that was carried out by the official regional health authority concluded that there was just one baby girl she could have been swapped with. The complaint is now looking for $3.5 million in damages coming from the region's official ministry of health.

Health Department Admits 'Human Error'

The woman that she was reportedly switched with has already been informed. However, she has not yet made a complaint. Attorney Jose Saez Morga told TVR television network that in the case of his client, she was born later but was then given to a mother who had only just given birth to the first child.

It was noted that the negligence is so gross that it already speaks for itself. Meanwhile, the health department located in the northern region of La Rioja has reportedly acknowledged the mistake and still maintains that only "human error" was to blame.

Health Department Addresses Issue

The health department of the northern region of La Rioja noted in a statement that an internal investigation found only an undetermined "one-off human error" as the one to blame. They also added that they would respect any official judicial proceedings.

It said that they were not aware of any other similar cases and added that current systems in place would now prevent any particularly similar mix-ups from happening again. Attorney Jose Saez Morga also noted that he had filed a claim on behalf of his own client against La Rioja's health department for what Reuters notes as an "immeasurable emotional harm" that was caused by just this particular error.

Read Also: Woman with two wombs, two cervixes gives birth to a miracle baby

Woman Reportedly Grew Up in 'Dysfunctional Family'

The lawyer, however, could not be reached in order to obtain further comment. According to the larioja.com news site, however, the girl actually grew up in a dysfunctional family and most of the time was just raised by her grandmother.

Switch ups usually happen in a hospital and not during certain situations like when a woman from Utah went into labor while driving to the hospital and gave birth to a 10-pound baby roadside. Of course, this is still no guarantee as the switch up happened in the hospital itself. Back in 2019, an Ebola survivor was actually able to give birth to a virus-free baby in Congo just shortly after the outbreak.

Related Article: 18-Month-Old Baby Girl Hears for the First Time as Doctor Activates Cochlear Implant Remotely During COVID-19 Lockdown

This article is owned by Tech Times

Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Amazon complained that Elon Musk-led companies, like SpaceX, have a habit of ignoring both rules and regulations imposed by the government in a letter to the FCC, or the Federal Communications Commission.

The e-commerce giant went on to add that SpaceX attacks those who point out its stubbornness from rules, ArsTechnica reported.

Amazon vs. SpaceX: FCC Battle

Just two weeks ago, Amazon also sent a letter to FCC, urging the government agency to dismiss the proposal of SpaceX that will include up to 30,000 Starlink broadband satellites.

The satellite-internet subsidiary of Amazon, Kuiper, filed the protest on FCC last Aug. 25 against the expansion of SpaceX's Starlink.

The e-commerce firm founded by Jeff Bezos further claimed that Musk's SpaceX violated a rule that prohibits inconsistent and incomplete applications.

Musk's space exploration company responded to the claim by telling FCC that Amazon is fond of derailing their competition to "compensate for Amazon's failure to make progress of its own."

In addition, SpaceX denied that their application that included two possible configurations did not violate any FCC rule.

Jeff Bezos vs. SpaceX

Before Amazon got involved in the dealings of SpaceX, its founder and now-retired CEO, Bezos, had been contesting the contract of Musk's space company and NASA or the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Bezos's own space exploration firm, Blue Origin, has already filed two complaints against the $2.9 billion contract of NASA and SpaceX that seeks to send astronauts to the moon after 50 years.

Blue Origin first protested the NASA and SpaceX contract last April 26, or two weeks after the moon lander project was awarded to Musk's space firm.

The complaint was filed on the Government Accountability Office or GAO but was dismissed after 95 days. Thus, the lunar lander project of NASA continued with SpaceX.

However, last Aug. 21, the Amazon founder filed a lawsuit in the federal court to protest the moon lander contract for the second time, delaying the project once more.

Read Also: Amazon to Hire 55,000 Corporate and Tech Roles for Global Expansion Plans | Find Out More

Amazon: SpaceX, Elon Musk-led Firms are Rule Breakers

As per Gizmodo, the lead counsel of Kuiper, Andrew Keisner, wrote that SpaceX and other Musk-led firms are involved in numerous rule-breaking incidents.

Keisner further lists instances such as "launching satellites with unlicensed antennas, launching rockets without approval, building an unapproved launch tower, or re-opening a factory in violation of a shelter-in-place order."

The letter to the FCC also boldly claimed that the companies of billionaire, Musk, ignore rules and think that it does not apply to them.

Amazon further told FCC that SpaceX is fond of misinformation, and ad hominem attacks.

Previously, or on Aug. 27 to be precise, Elon Musk said that Bezo's new full-time job is to file lawsuits against his company, SpaceX.

Related Article: Amazon 'Just Walk Out' Tech to Come for Washington and California Whole Foods Store in 2022

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
ISS astronauts might've been greeted by the worst scare of their lives recently, being cooped up in a tin can in outer space after all.

ISS Fire Alarms Blaring

Phys.org reports that the astronauts on the ISS smelled smoke, which was followed shortly by fire alarms. The alarms blared from the space station's Russian segment, where several of the astronauts smelled something "burning."

The Russian space agency said that the incident occurred at around 1:55 PM GMT. This is the latest in the recent string of issues concerning the aging ISS, specifically its Russian segment whose upkeep has been increasingly outdated for the past few years.

According to the official statement from the Russian space agency Roscosmos, a smoke detector in the Zvezda service module of the ISS was triggered due to automatic battery charging. But apparently, the smoke traveled far enough to the US segment of the International Space Station, where French astronaut Thomas Pesquet described the smell of "burning plastic or electronic gear."

Solving the Problem

It's also worth noting that the alarms were triggered ahead of a scheduled spacewalk by Russian cosmonauts, who were supposed to work on the Nauka Science Module to prepare it for scientific operations, reports the BBC.

To solve the problem, the Russian ISS crew turned on an air filter. Eventually, the air was cleared enough for the astronauts to go back to sleep. For now, the ISS seems to be working as intended, despite numerous issues including cracks on the station's walls, which led people to believe that the station must be retired soon.

Read also: Zero Gravity 'Olympics' Moves On The ISS Look Fun In Space But How Do We Do It on Earth?

ISS: An Aging Icon of Human Space Exploration

To say that the ISS is getting old is an understatement. However, not even a lot of people actually know that the space station is aging. To them, it's a relatively new thing, which couldn't be further from the truth.

NASA, in partnership with Roscosmos, Japan's JAXA, the ESA, and the CSA, first launched the modular space station into orbit on November 20, 1998. But it didn't start off as the wide-spanning station that most people know today. In fact, it took 10 years and over 30 missions to assemble the ISS to its current size and specifications, according to the ISSNationalLab.org.

Since then, the ISS has played a major part in several of the most important scientific experiments and findings of the past two decades. According to Tech Briefs, over 20 years of research on the International Space Station has led to improvements in the treatment of major diseases, for one. Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease, asthma, heart disease, and even cancer--all of these received some critical data from ISS-based experiments that improved the efficacy of existing treatments.

However, the ISS will have to retire soon, meaning NASA and all other space agencies around the world will have to think of a replacement. For now, there are suggestions that private industries should fill the void after the ISS retires in 2024, with agreements proceeding at a rapid pace.

Related: Elon Musk: ISS' Near Orbital is The Fastest Way to Travel Earth-25 Times Faster than the Speed of Sound!

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Windows 11 packs several upgrades over Windows 10, but according to Microsoft, the snappiness and overall responsiveness of their new OS isn't really tied to the hardware it runs on.

Windows 11's Speed Explained

Microsoft VP for the Windows Management Team Steve Dispensa explained what's under the hood of Windows 11 that makes it feel faster than its predecessor. He showcased how both hardware and software intricately work together to support Windows 11, in a way that Windows 10 apparently didn't.

As reported by Tom's Hardware, among the biggest changes in Windows 11 was the improved resource management system. Unlike in Windows 10, the new OS now implements higher priority levels to programs whose windows are currently being worked on.

For example, if you're typing on Google Docs on a window in your main screen, the OS will devote most of its resources to running that specific window, which then doesn't leave up much processing power to any apps running in the background. And all of this is done in real time depending on the main program window a user is focusing on, unlike in Windows 10 where you'll mostly need to set program priorities manually.

The Operating System's Optimization

According to Dispenza, the performance improvements are due to a reduction of 32% in memory usage, and 37% less CPU usage. Microsoft calls this "tab sleeping," which could be a lifesaver for people who will be running Windows 11 on minimum-spec hardware.

Here is the full video on the Microsoft Mechanics YouTube channel, if you want to digest all of the finest details:

Aside from freeing up memory and CPU resources, Dispenza also mentioned that Windows 11 updates are almost 40% smaller, which makes them faster to download and install. This is made possible by a reworked update engine which only focuses on downloading the most critical files from Microsoft servers, reports MSPowerUser.

Read also: Windows 11 Will Hit 'General Availability' On October 5

Do Windows 11 Speed Improvements Matter Elsewhere?

During the initial reveal for the OS back in June, Microsoft famously stated that they designed Windows 11 specifically for gaming. So does this mean that the tab sleeping function will also lead to improved gaming performance?

Well, this is where things begin to differentiate. If you're expecting an FPS boost from the extra memory and CPU overhead, you're going to be disappointed. That's because FPS is intrinsically tied to the kind of hardware you're running in your PC (i.e. your CPU, memory, and graphics card). If you have relatively meager components, Windows 11 won't help you with increased frames.

What it could help with, however, is making games run far more stable. Perhaps you could expect fewer hitches, frame rate drops, and stuttering in your favorite games, especially if you're running them with other apps like OBS (for streamers out there).

But if for some reason you'd still prefer your old trusty Windows 10 install, you can do that. Even if you don't upgrade when Windows 11 comes out, your current Windows 10 OS will still work. So don't believe those rumor mongers who say that you have to upgrade to Windows 11 as soon as you get that update prompt.

Related: Windows 11 Will Give Users a Chance To Roll Back to 10, But Should They?

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Sonic Corp, one of the largest fast-food chain companies in the United States, is now in trouble after the lawsuit against it will now move forward.

The litigation was filed by various financial institutions, which were affected by the recent Sonic Drive-In 2017 data breach. They claimed that the company was responsible for the massive hacking that put consumers' financial data at risk.

On the other hand, investigators also said that the data had been stolen in a cyber-attack, which involves online criminals installing malware on a point-of-sale system. This software was also used at hundreds of Sonic franchises across the United States.

"Sonic Drive-In has discovered that credit and debit card numbers may have been acquired without authorization as part of a malware attack experienced at certain Sonic Drive-In locations," said the financial organizations that filed the lawsuit.

Sonic Data Breach Affects Millions of Credit Card Owners

US Norton recently reported that the 2017 Sonic Corp data breach affected around 5 million customers' credit card details. Because of this, various cybersecurity firms, including KrebsOnSecurity1, concluded that the fast-food chain's payment system might have been compromised.

Also Read: [UPDATE] T-Mobile Hacker Said it Only Took Him a Week to Steal Data, Says Carrier Security is 'Awful'

Financial institutes then complained they saw fraudulent transactions from the credit cards and debit cards used at Sonic beforehand.

Because of this issue, Sonic Corp decided to work with law enforcement agencies and third-party forensics experts. However, they were still unable to prevent hackers from stealing data from the credit cards of their consumers, which were then seen on the Dark Web.

The Welsh government is being accused of breaking data protection laws more than 300 times in other news. On the other hand, crypto thieves are also becoming rampant, stealing around $600 million.

Sonic Crop Guilty of Affirmative Acts

According to Infosecurity's latest report, U.S. District Judge James Gwin confirmed that the giant American fast-food chain company is guilty of affirmative acts, which put its consumers' banking details at risk.

Because of this, Gwin turned down the request of Sonic Drive-In to grant summary judgment. He explained that the company is responsible for the 2017 massive data breach since it should have prevented that from happening.

For more news updates about Sonic Corp's data breach lawsuit and other security threats, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: Fortinet VPN Users' Compromised as Hacker Gang Leaks 500,000 Passwords on Dark Web Forum

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ASKAP (Australian Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder), a sensitive space telescope of Australia, detects a mysterious repeating radio signal in the Milky Way Galaxy's center. Involved astronomers said that they were able to receive this unknown radio wave around 13 times between April 2019 and August 2020.

However, they were not able to detect it again, which prevented them from further observing the radio signal to know its origin and existence. Because of this, space experts are now confused about the actual source of the radio signal.

NASA explained that radio signals usually come from astronomical objects, which have to change magnetic fields that produce radio waves. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's WAVES, a radio astronomy instrument, usually detects radio signals coming from the Sun and other planets within the solar system.

Aside from stars and other heavenly bodies, space experts also explained that nebulas, quasars, and pulsars are also among the most common sources of radio signals. However, the latest mysterious repeating radio signal seems to be not coming from them.

Why ASKAP Radio Signal Confuses Astronomers

According to Slash Gear's latest report, the involved Australian space researchers said that the mysterious repeating radio signal they detected is not a pulsar, a low-mass star, or even a fast radio burst.

Also Read: NASA to Replace Aircraft's Cockpit Window with 4K Video Screen-Completes Testing

Aside from its unknown origin or form, ASKAP astronomers also confirmed that the repeating radio signal, which is now called ASKAP J173608.2-321635, will appear very bright in the radio system for weeks. After that, it would suddenly disappear within around 24 hours.

On the other hand, the Australian experts added that the behavior of the new radio wave also doesn't fit any recorded celestial body types.

Since this is the case, they believe that this signal could represent a new class of space objects, which could be discovered via radio imaging.

In other news, NASA James Webb's December launch date is now confirmed. On the other hand, an astrobiologist claimed that space viruses could exist but are harmless to humans.

Other Details of the Repeating Radio Wave

Express UK reported that the new study, which Ziteng Wang leads, states that the repeating radio signal could be a highly polarized, variable radio source.

On the other hand, the involved University of Sydney researchers explained that there's a high possibility it came from the center of the Milky Way Galaxy, which is still an unexplored area.

Aside from these, astronomers also said that it does not appear when they are using other types of space telescopes, such as the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Swift Observatory, which can pick up near-infrared wavelengths.

For more news updates about the repeating radio signal and other space-related stories, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: Solar System's Planet Nine Now Closer? Treasure Map Simulation Shows New 7,400 Earth-Year Orbital Period

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Adobe Photoshop V22.5 currently disappoints many consumers because it is removing some of the most favorite features of PSD fans.

"As difficult of a decision as removing 3D features from Photoshop," said an Adobe employee via Adobe Support Community.

The anonymous staff added that the update was already released last August. He admitted that the new version would remove 3D features and another popular editing feature called Spherical Panorama from the well-known video editing software.

On the other hand, the employee explained that these functions would be removed since PSD is a transition away from OpenGL, which is critical for 3D functionalities.

Because of this, many consumers in the Adobe Support Community comment section shared their disappointments. One of them even threatened the giant tech creator to let go of Adobe Photoshop if they continued to remove the advanced editing features.

Adobe Photoshop V22.5 Solution

If you are one of the unhappy consumers, the best thing you can do is downgrade your software version V22.3.1. However, users who are using crack versions might not be able to do this.

Also Read: Twitter Launches Communities Feature that Lets Users Bond Over Their Common Interest

They would be required to get another version if they want to continue using the popular Spherical Panorama and 3D features of PSD.

Many editors, both newbies, and professionals are claiming that removing these advanced editing features is a bad move from Adobe since they could lose many consumers.

However, some users are still hoping that the giant software provider will still solve the issue on the next version. As of the moment, the best thing you can do is wait for Adobe's actual announcements about the Spherical Panorama and 3D features.

In other news, Adobe Photoshop iPad App receives magic want tool. On the other hand, an AI-powered super-resolution shows PSD's inconsistencies.

Popular Adobe Photoshop Features

The current issue with Adobe Photoshop V22.5 is pretty serious since many editors and photographers are relying on Spherical Panorama and 3D features to enhance their image outputs.

According to Adobe HelpX's report, these two editing capabilities are not the only ones affected by the update. Other functions include the following:

Normal Map and Bump Map filters (including smart objects with those filters applied)

All interactions in the 3D workspace

3D printing

Lighting Effects

Import/Export of all 3D formats

Any/all extrusions, including text extrusions

For more news updates about Adobe Photoshop and mother popular photo editing software, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

Related Article: New Microsoft Clipchamp Non-Pro Video Editing Software Offers Features That Adobe and Other Apps Don't Have

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Announcing September's Geospatial Champion

You can read our exclusive interview with techUK's new Geospatial Champion below #GeospatialFuture

Congratulations to Pascal Coulon, CGI for being selected as techUKs Geospatial Champion for September!

The purpose of techUKs Geospatial Champion campaign is to celebrate the work of those pushing forward adoption of Geospatial in the tech sector. This is also an opportunity to learn from those working in Geospatial about the current landscape and examples of the strides being made in enhancing awareness.

A new techUK 'Geospatial Champion will be chosen every other month, so if you would like to nominate a friend or colleague to be the next Champion please drop us a line. You can read out interview with Pascal below

What is your current role and what does a typical day involve?

I am what CGI calls a Director Consulting Expert (DCE), essentially a technical director. CGI is a large multinational company and my focus remains within our UK Central Government Business Unit. I am responsible for driving the technical road map of our Geospatial Proposition: I am there to ensure best technical delivery of our geospatial projects for our UK central government clients. I will often wake up looking up in the sky out at the sentinel satellites, have lunch surrounded by ecologists safeguarding our UK forest heritage and complete my day looking at coal mine plans; never a dull day!

Why is geospatial data valuable to the UK?

Geospatial Data has shown again its power with the recent COVID-19 outbreak - not a single day without a map on the news. It has also shown its limit with a number of examples where miss-handled geospatial data can lead to serious issues and misunderstandings. Geospatial will carry on being valuable, but only if:

Continuous promotion and safeguarding of data is key as it helps us drive strong project governance; with clear guidelines on data access, privacy, ethics and security, and promote better use of location data.

Well-managed and governed geospatial data is key to accessing data across government agencies. I am a great believer in open architecture solution and this starts with data that it is findable, accessible, interoperable, reusable and of high quality.

Do you think the conversation around geospatial data is changing in the UK? Why/ why not?

Since 2006, when The Guardian started its Free Our Data campaign, the UK geospatial data landscape has dramatically evolved and changed for the better. Over the last 15 years, it is great to see that most OS datasets are now either partially or fully freely available for the private and public sector. The UK should not be complacent and keep looking for new opportunities to increase sharing data and its geospatial component across different industries. The recent progress on the National Underground Asset Register (NUAR) shows what will be the next step, in enabling another major part of the UK economy.

How do we showcase the value of geospatial data to the technology sector?

The next big challenge in the UK is cutting down our carbon footprint. The UK government is pushing the UK population to shift to electric powered vehicles. Access to electric charging points to enable this shift is without a doubt a problem that should be resolved using location based data. The use of free open data (e.g. Ordnance Survey, Satellite data) presents a unique opportunity to keep demonstrating the value of free open geospatial data.

What are your key concerns hindering increased deployment of geospatial data in the technology sector?

As previously mentioned, I am a strong believer in the use of Open Architecture based systems. The use of open standard and well-defined industry format should remain a key concern when implementing and delivering geospatial projects. Over the last few years, a gradual shift to openly and freely share data has been noticeable across the industry; the main concerns remain on data security. We cannot be complacent when designing and implementing geospatial data systems, we need to keep putting data security as the prime requirement.

What steps can companies take to utilize spatial data in their products and services

I have mentioned this topic in a number of fora. The best way to utilise and promote spatial data is by sharing it using open standards and well-defined industry formats. Do not lock your data away. But, no one should be complacent with the likes of OGC standard; they are starting to show some limitation. OGC services have shown their use, but it might be time to start looking at the new generation of OGC API, which presents a lighter way to access data. A number of emerging cloud based formats are also evolving and with the volume of data now expected; it is time to start considering parallel and additional options for serving and sharing data.

Can you give an example of where geospatial data has been adopted in an innovative and new way?

At CGI, we believe in putting innovation first. The use of Open Architecture is a key factor in driving changes and increasing innovation. We see this used to great effect with our clients, for example the recently delivered DataMapWales projects, using an open data platform. With a continuous re-use of a core central data store, the Welsh Government was then able to focus their attention on the delivery of tactical solutions for the management of their Active Travel policies as well as their Emergency Management portal.

Regarding data access and availability  what is the position of the UK and in what ways should we encourage data accessibility?

15 years ago, I would have never said that, but today geospatial data should be less and less considered as special, it is just an extra dimension to the data. Within the Geospatial industry we have long mastered the need to openly share data driven by the INSPIRE directive. The next challenge is to keep on applying this thought process to the non-location based data.

How can we equip the next generation with the most appropriate skills for a future in geospatial?

Geography is well taught in the UK, with centers of excellence driven by the likes of Ordnance Survey and their drive to open their data to the public. Most of the basic cartographic courses in universities across the world have been replaced by GIS courses and maps are no longer necessarily created by experts, but instead by software, highlighting the focus on IT skills rather than spatial literacy. It demonstrates that a good geospatial engineer is now more often first a good software engineer. The geospatial industry is a technical subject, to describe our environment we need data and a generation of scientists and engineers that understand it. At CGI we are a big believer in helping the community. Check out our STEM based activity packs for children aged 6  14 - It is never too early to learn IT.

Laura Foster Laura is techUKs Programme Manager for Technology and Innovation. She supports the application and expansion of emerging technologies across business, including Geospatial Data, Quantum Computing, AR/VR/XR and Edge technologies. Before joining techUK, Laura worked internationally in London, Singapore and across the United States as a conference researcher and producer covering enterprise adoption of emerging technologies. This included being part of the strategic team at London Tech Week. Laura has a degree in History (BA Hons) from Durham University, focussing on regional social history. Outside of work she loves reading, travelling and supporting rugby team St. Helens, where she is from. Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lauraalicefoster Read lessmore

Sue Daley Sue leads techUK's Technology and Innovation work. This includes work programmes on cloud, data protection, data analytics, AI, digital ethics, Digital Identity and Internet of Things as well as emerging and transformative technologies and innovation policy. She has been recognised as one of the most influential people in UK tech by Computer Weekly's UKtech50 Longlist and in 2021 was inducted into the Computer Weekly Most Influential Women in UK Tech Hall of Fame. A key influencer in driving forward the data agenda in the UK Sue is co-chair of the UK government's National Data Strategy Forum. As well as being recognised in the UK's Big Data 100 and the Global Top 100 Data Visionaries for 2020 Sue has also been shortlisted for the Milton Keynes Women Leaders Awards and was a judge for the Loebner Prize in AI. In addition to being a regular industry speaker on issues including AI ethics, data protection and cyber security, Sue was recently a judge for the UK Tech 50 and is a regular judge of the annual UK Cloud Awards. Prior to joining techUK in January 2015 Sue was responsible for Symantec's Government Relations in the UK and Ireland. She has spoken at events including the UK-China Internet Forum in Beijing, UN IGF and European RSA on issues ranging from data usage and privacy, cloud computing and online child safety. Before joining Symantec, Sue was senior policy advisor at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI). Sue has an BA degree on History and American Studies from Leeds University and a Masters Degree on International Relations and Diplomacy from the University of Birmingham. Sue is a keen sportswoman and in 2016 achieved a lifelong ambition to swim the English Channel. Email: [email protected] Phone: 020 7331 2055 Twitter: @ChannelSwimSue Read lessmore
Homeowners in East Baton Rouge Parish and nine other parishes have been authorized to get free, temporary roofs in the wake of Hurricane Ida, officials said Thursday.

The issue of blue roof eligibility has been a sore spot with most of Louisiana's congressional delegation, which sent a letter to FEMA Administrator Deane Criswell earlier this week asking that the agency revise the criteria used to decide which parishes qualify.

Col. Zachary Miller, commander of the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers Hurricane Ida recovery effort, said the expansion followed a request from the office of the governor in consultation with parish leaders and others.

+11 Mother of three gets blue roof after Hurricane Ida; 'Blessed to be first on the list' Ten days after Hurricane Ida shredded her roof, Candace Pepp was the first of up to 70,000 households in Louisiana to get a temporary roof Wed

Newly-eligible parishes are East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Pointe Coupee, St. Martin, St. Mary, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.

They join the 15 previously authorized parishes: Ascension, Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, and Terrebonne.

That means all 25 parishes declared disaster areas from the Category 4 storm qualify for the roofs.

+2 As blue roofs near installation in Louisiana, state leaders push for wider qualifications Louisiana congressional leaders Monday asked federal officials to revise the criteria used for which parishes get temporary roofs after East B

The roofs are industrial-strength plastic sheeting designed to keep homes dry until permanent repairs are made.

The work is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for FEMA  Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The first such roof went up in New Orleans East on Wednesday.

More than 48,000 applications for the coverings have been filed, with up to 70,000 expected.

Miller said the plan is for 400 roofs per day to be going up in six days. "We will very quickly be working across the entire state with these crews," he said.

Miller said the aim is to meet all of the requests in around 60 days, weather permitting.

John Bel Edwards wont echo state leaders call for blue roof expansion; latest on Ida recovery Gov. John Bel Edwards said Tuesday he is not ready to echo complaints by Louisiana's congressional delegation that federal officials are being

Whether any criteria changed in how parishes are approved is unclear.

U.S. Reps. Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, Steve Scalise, R-Jefferson and three others requested new benchmarks in which parishes qualified.

This is good news for the Hurricane Ida victims across several parishes," Graves said in a statement. "We all know that allowing homes to take on more water while waiting for repairs only means more damage, more mold, more cost, and more delays.

Homeowners and those in permanently occupied rental property can apply at blueroof.us or by calling 1-888-766-3258.
Louisiana residents who fled their homes because of Hurricane Ida should expect their homeowner's insurance company to pay for evacuation expenses, even in parishes without mandatory evacuation orders, the state Department of Insurance ruled Wednesday.

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is directing insurance providers to pay for hotel rooms and meals for residents who left the region because of the storm. It's a common complaint among residents that insurance companies were not reimbursing policyholders for such expenses to evacuate.

"That provision, requiring an evacuation order is there to protect the insurer," Donelon said. Insurers are fearful people would use a hurricane heading into the Gulf as "as an invitation to have a weeks' stay at a vacation destination."

"It worked over the years until this instance," he said.

Public officials were pressed to make a decision about mandatory evacuations hours before the storm would make landfall. There were mandatory evacuations in Assumption, St. Charles, Terrbonne, Lafourche and for communities outside the levee system in Orleans, Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes.

Donelon said its likely if there was enough time before Ida made landfall, evacuations would have been mandatory across South Louisiana. But the severity and trajectory of the storm didnt make that possible.

Long lines at some pharmacies for medication after Hurricane Ida Baton Rouge-area pharmacies saw customers flocking to get prescriptions after Hurricane Ida prompting longer lines than usual this week.

Allstate, USAA and United Property and Casualty decided to offer living expenses to policyholders without the evacuation requirement.

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But State Farm has been hesitant to pay for evacuation expenses when no mandatory order was made, according to the insurance department.

Donelon said he was surprised and disappointed by State Farm's decision which prompted the statewide ruling.

The order includes 25 parishes across the state: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.

With Louisiana hotels prioritizing Hurricane Ida helpers, it might be hard to get a room Gov. John Bel Edwards has authorized hotels and motels to cancel reservations and other contracts with future guests to ensure electrical line

State Farm, which has the largest market share across Louisiana with roughly one-third of homeowners policies, rebuffed the claim.

Additional living expense payments are triggered when storms cause a home to become uninhabitable, according to the company's website.

"We are addressing the needs of displaced customers," according to a statement from State Farm. "Altering the terms of the contract for one event would be unfair to all those who have experienced loss from previous disasters."
Baton Rouge-area pharmacies saw customers flocking to get prescriptions after Hurricane Ida prompting longer lines than usual this week.

Power outages caused by the storm knocked out electricity and temporarily shuttered many locations through Tuesday.

It wasn't a supply chain issue but some locations were closed over Labor Day weekend so there was a bottleneck, according to pharmacies in the area.

The CVS at Bluebonnet Boulevard and Perkins Road was "extremely busy" as other pharmacies in the region had limited hours or were temporarily closed.

"We are not experiencing a medication supply issue. Our teams in Baton Rouge are working to serve customers and patients as efficiently as possible," said Amy Thibault, spokesperson for CVS Health.

Louisiana requiring insurers to pay for Hurricane Ida evacuees' hotel stays Louisiana residents who fled their homes because of Hurricane Ida should expect their homeowner's insurance company to pay for evacuation expe

On Wednesday afternoon, that same location was open but the pharmacy drive-thru was closed and blocked off with a shopping cart. The drive-thru is often closed when there's a staff shortage, Thibault said. Another CVS location near Bluebonnet and Jefferson Highway had no line and its drive-thru was open.

Desire Lands had been waiting about 20 minutes in a line with nearly a dozen cars at the Walgreens near the intersection of Coursey Boulevard and Sherwood Forest. She was picking up some medicine for her small children who had been without power for almost a week.

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"I think it should be a lot faster, some people might come on their lunch break to get their medicine and only have 30 minutes, how are they going to wait (in this line) you know time is money. Who wants to wait all day for medicine?" she said. "I think they may be short on workers, that's probably what it is."

At the Walgreens near the intersection of Siegen Lane and Perkins, Laurie Elkins waited in a line with half a dozen cars during midday. Elkins saw long lines around town but didn't have any trouble getting medicine for her family the day before at the Jefferson Highway CVS.

"I usually come in the late afternoon," she said. "We've had no delays and everything has been available."

+12 Acadian Ambulance marks 50 years during aftermath of Ida, COVID surge, staff shortage Alex Richoux picked his load of clean laundry out of a few stacks  some folded, some fresh from the dryer  Friday afternoon in a small, air-

Meanwhile, a local independent pharmacy in Prairieville has been getting a steady stream of new customers from big chains.

"We're getting a lot of patients with their bottles saying no phones are being answered (at chain pharmacies) so we're trying to call the doctors to get the scripts to help them," said Marc Schexnailder, pharmacy manager at Prairieville Pharmacy.

The store had been using a generator for several days but had power restored.

"We've been lucky, our wholesaler is local so they've been delivering since Tuesday right after the storm," Schexnailder said.
Louisiana has spent billions of dollars building levees around lakes Maurepas and Pontchartrain, protecting urban and suburban areas from floods and storm surge.

But after Hurricane Ida slammed into more rural areas  like the town of Manchac, where the storm lifted at least one home off its foundation and tore up several others  the people who live there say watching those protective walls of earth rise has only made them feel more vulnerable.

In New Orleans, an almost $15 billion levee system stopped Ida from pouring in deadly floodwaters like Katrina did. To the west, Ida ravaged LaPlace with flooding, just like it did in Hurricane Isaac nine years ago. But LaPlace residents are putting hope in a $760 million, 18-mile levee project slated to finish by 2024.

As Ponchatoula resident Steve Drury helped his brother-in-law's family save what they could from a gutted house in Manchac  a community of some 30 people on Lake Maurepas northeast shore  he didn't have any big levee project to look forward to.

They take in a lot of water down there, and we take in a lot of water up here, Drury said, standing among scattered crab traps and splintered trees. But when they get their protection, we wont have any protection from the lake water and all that.

Drury and other locals worry the growing levee system will only make things worse for them. After all, they reason, the water the levees block has to go somewhere.

It's a concern that emerges again and again over the decades, as levees get approved in a piecemeal fashion across the basin.

As far back as 1970, St. John the Baptist Parish officials voiced concerns about the Army Corps of Engineers' massive project to protect New Orleans. They worried its walls would funnel more water west  a concern that, in part, drove support for the West Shore project, which broke ground this July.

The lack of a barrier between St. John and Lake Pontchartrain makes it vulnerable to storm-surge flooding. Hurricane Isaac illustrated as much in 2012, damaging some 7,200 homes parishwide.

LaPlace flooded again after Ida tore through. But that can be explained by wind direction  not by water pushed west by New Orleans levees, said Louisiana State University professor emeritus Craig Colten, who taught historical geography.

Likewise, south Tangipahoa Parish residents need not worry that the West Shore levee will inundate them with extra water once its built, according to early studies by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which is awarding contracts for the project. Computer modeling shows the finished barriers pushing lake levels up by somewhere between 1.2 and 2.4 inches.

Thats much less of an increase than that of surge and rain associated with a 1% storm event in that area, said Corps spokesman Rene Poche, referring to the stretch of lakeshore on Tangipahoas southern boundary.

Isaac and Ida alike pushed about eight feet of storm surge against Manchacs shores. The area risks flooding at three feet.

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But with little chance of Tangipahoa getting its own levee along the northeast shore of Lake Maurepas, which intersects Interstate 55, residents are left wondering how theyll survive when the next powerful storm sweeps in.

Weve had a lot more flooding in Manchac in the past five years than wed ever had previously, said Kim Coates, a Ponchatoula-area member of the Tangipahoa Parish council.

With storm surge and rain, Ida filled waterways between Manchac and Ponchatoula to the highest levels Coates said shed ever seen. Floods spilled over Old U.S. 51 and poured into houses in this community of fishing huts, camps and a few restaurants and bars.

Some homes, like one owned by Drurys brother-in-law William Bates, blew off their foundations completely.

+2 Hurricane Ida hit Tangipahoa Parish hard. Its leaders say its recovery is inching forward Nearly 73% of Tangipahoa Parish still didn't have power Monday after it was slammed by Hurricane Ida, but local leaders said they are starting

While projections show the West Shore Levee wont worsen flooding in South Tangipahoa, peoples fears over that possibility make sense given the trauma of coping with high waters in the past several years, Coates said.

Being here physically and seeing the water gives you a totally different perspective, she said. These last couple of years, the waters gotten worse and worse.  Its eerie.

A champion of the West Shore levee project, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves, R-Baton Rouge, believes a lesson that from Katrina is that it's a mistake to point fingers at other areas flood mitigation plans.

People think, The waters gotta go somewhere, and theyre right, Graves said. But when you look at the entire area of Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas, any impact that would occur from that project is effectively immeasurable.

As a remedy for flood damage in lakeside communities, Graves is advocating for low-level barriers at Chef and Rigolets passes  something that would soften the Gulf of Mexicos inland surge when hurricanes approach.

That 50-year-old proposal has lacked political momentum since it appeared in a 2017 update to Louisianas Coastal Master Plan.

Bates wonders whether hell be able to salvage his home after the winds ripped it from the ground.

I hope that I can raise this one, but I dont know, he said. Thats a long, drawn-out process.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Louisiana treasurer: An easy way to start saving for college really helps down the road
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We dont have to imagine what a once beautiful, lively small community looks like when it becomes uninhabitable. Unfortunately, we can look to Grand Isle in Jefferson Parish.

Louisiana has been dealing with barrier island issues for decades. The mighty Mississippi River has had its way with our coastline as the river decided to change its path, submerging some barrier islands, enhancing other barrier islands.

In recent years, Grand Isle was the one barrier island inhabited enough to be a vibrant community. Several hundred permanent residents called it home before Hurricane Ida, but parish officials gave them two, 12-hour shifts to carefully visit the island to see the incredible damage for themselves, to take photographs for insurance purposes and to gather a few personal items that might be salvageable.

+3 Six people rode out Hurricane Ida in a Grand Isle motel: 'I thought we were going to blow away' When Hurricane Ida slammed into Grand Isle as a Category 4 storm, with 150 mph winds and towering storm surge, a group of six people rode it o

Who knows when they will be allowed back. Who knows what life will look like as the Louisiana coastline recovers.

As the only barrier island with residents in recent years, the town has been a comfortable place for some looking for a peaceful, laid-back life with a fundamental philosophy that nature provides the key to good living.

Only LA 1 connects the island to the mainland with a bridge at Caminada Pass. Few traveled the bridge during non-peak times. But the traffic picked up for long holiday weekends, short breaks from the rush of urban life and during seasonal breaks. People flocked to Grand Isle to enjoy beaches, dunes and marshes  birding, boating and fishing.

Many of the things that attracted so many to Grand Isle are gone.

Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng said 100% of the properties there are damaged to some extent. Many have lost roofs, rooms, walls. There is nothing left standing in some instances. Whats left of roads are hardly passable, with the possible exception of 4x4 vehicles. Theres no power. Theres no gas. There are no businesses open.

Its worse than a ghost town because the island was such a tranquil place preparing for visitors on the Labor Day weekend when Ida struck just to the west. Though its been listed as a Category 4 hurricane, there were reports of 172 mph gusts on the island. A Category 5 hurricane has winds of 156 mph and higher.

Grand Isle Police Chief Scooter Resweber made it clear that this was no ordinary heavy-impact hurricane. Ive ridden out other hurricanes  Hurricane Isaac, Katrina, Gustav, Ike  and this is no comparison whatsoever, he told the Associated Press. This is the worst.  Its just amazing that no one (here) was killed or even seriously injured.

Strong odors of natural gas permeating whats left of the island for several days are another sign that Grand Isle isnt what it used to be.

Grand Isle has been our last inhabited barrier island for some time now. Based on assessments by state, parish and local officials, it would be a monumental task to rebuild Grand Isle.

The science is clear. Our coastline continues to disappear. Much of it has disappeared. More of it is likely to be gone by 2067, according to environmental experts. Grand Isles residents will love it back to life, as they have before, but our climate is changing and each new storm will bring greater challenges.
The chief executive of a $6 billion energy industry super fund has resigned the day after allegations of a toxic workplace and questionable spending on charity deals and corporate entertainment under his watch were made public.

Energy Industries Superannuation Scheme (EISS) chair Warren Mundy said on Thursday afternoon that chief executive Alex Hutchison had decided to tender his resignation, effective immediately.

EISS Super chief executive Alex Hutchison on his Malabar balcony, Sydney. Credit:Janie Brrett

Alex has requested that his resignation be effective immediately, which I respect and have agreed to. The funds chief financial officer, Mr Lance Foster, has agreed to take on the role of acting chief executive officer, Dr Mundy said in a statement.

We would like to acknowledge the significant contribution Mr Hutchison has made to the EISS Super and in particular ensuring members and employers rights were protected during the unprecedented restructuring of the electricity industry in NSW and ensuring the funding position of the defined benefit fund was returned to surplus.
It is a perennially uncomfortable nugget of Facebook trivia that it began as a website for rating the attractiveness of Harvards female students.

Facemash did not last long, but its place in the story of Mark Zuckerbergs company has lingered, haunting what is now the worlds biggest social network whenever it finds itself criticised for bias.

Facebook revealed plans in 2019 to double its female staff count globally over five years but in July, it revealed women made up 36.7 per cent of its workforce, a drop from the year befores 37 per cent figure. Credit:AP

Facebooks early years after its founding in 2004 are replete with tales that would today make its executives squirm. Sexually explicit murals donned the walls of its offices and complaints about harassment among the companys first employees were reportedly dismissed as playful banter.

Since then, Facebook has grown into a $US1.1 trillion ($1.5 trillion) giant with 63,000 staff. While expanding it has attempted to shake off the frat house reputation that accompanied its early days and replace it with the image of a liberal tech firm. There are no more lewd murals, for one thing.
There were few bright spots on our market today as blue-chip stocks struggled under the weight of global anxieties about COVID and commodity prices.

The S&P/ASX200 closed down 1.9 per cent to 7369.5 on Thursday, with all sub sectors struggling throughout the day. The session started off slowly as well-known tech brands followed their Wall Street peers lower, and by lunchtime the bourse had lost 1.2 per cent.

The market has lost 1.5 per cent over the past five days.

The S&P/ASX 200 lost 41.4 points to close Thursdays session at 7485.7. Credit:Tamara Voninski

Mining stocks led the market lower, with BHP closing down 1.7 per cent to $40.92, while Rio Tinto lost 2.5 per cent to $105.50. The weakening of the iron ore price is playing on the minds of investors, with RBC Capital Markets analysts noting this morning that volatility is expected to continue with pricing.

The iron ore price continues to be volatile with prices down a combined 13% since last week on further expected production cuts in China. CRU [consultants] noted growing inventories at ports as steel mills draw down stocks and remain cautious around new purchases, its analyst team said.

Technology and banking stocks also followed their US peers lower throughout the session, with the financials sector finishing down 2.04 per cent and all big four banks posting losses.

The US Federal Reserve released its economic report known as the Beige Book on Wednesday, noting that economic growth downshifted slightly to a moderate pace in early July through August.

Treasury secretary Janet Yellen also warned on Wednesday the United States could default on its debt some time in October unless Congress acts to raise debt limits.

New South Wales premier Gladys Berejiklian outlined a plan out of lockdowns for her state on Thursday, but consumer stocks did not feel the love, with the sector down 2.2 per cent.

Travel investors were not inspired either: Flight Centre finished down 2.1 per cent to $17.72, while Qantas lost 2.4 per cent to $5.23 and Webjet 3 per cent to $5.86.

Weekly jobs data from the Australian Bureau of statistics also pointed to how lockdowns are hurting state economies: payroll jobs dropped 1.2 per cent in NSW in the two weeks to August 14, the most of any state or territory.
Are you guys into crypto??? Kim Kardashian asked her 250 million followers in June. It was a little different from the red carpet poses, fragrance promotions and assorted members of the Kardashian clan that typically feature on the reality TV stars Instagram account.

The ubiquitous social media disclaimer of #ad dispensed with any notions that Kardashian had personally jumped into the complex world of distributed ledgers, decentralised finance and obscure cryptocurrencies.

A recent Instagram post by Kim Kardashian touting an unknown crypto attracted criticism from the UK finance watchdog. Credit:AP

But the social media post, an advertisement for a relatively minor cryptocurrency called Ethereum Max, still qualified as potentially the biggest financial promotion in history.

The same day that Kardashian invited her followers to join the Ethereum Max community, its value rose by up to 44 per cent. Taking her advice, however, would not have proven wise. The cryptocurrency has declined by around 90 per cent in the less than three months since. The main beneficiary is likely to have been Kardashian herself, who reportedly makes up to $US500,000 ($677,000) per Instagram advert.
Thousands of casual staff at the University of Sydney were notified on Thursday that they have been denied permanent jobs following an assessment of their eligibility.

The University of Sydney has confirmed 69 of 4173 casual staff assessed were offered permanent employment.

National Tertiary Education Union NSW secretary Damien Cahill said it appeared the university had taken a very minimalist black letter approach to casual employment and conversion and a very mean-spirited approach.

Many casual staff at the University of Sydney are disappointed they have been denied permanent employment. Credit:Steven Siewert

Much of the casual work that goes on at Sydney uni and most other universities in Australia is actually ongoing in nature and therefore should be given ongoing contract in secure employment. They are taking a formalist definition and not converting people, Mr Cahill said.
Close to 180 bus drivers have walked off the job at a western Sydney depot after one of their colleagues tested positive to COVID-19, and are warning they will not return until rapid antigen testing is introduced.

The Thursday afternoon snap-strike impacted more than 20 bus services in the citys west and further escalated an industrial dispute between the state government and transport workers over their calls for widespread testing across the network.

Close to 180 Sydney bus drivers say they will not return to work until the state government implements rapid antigen testing. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Employees at the Smithfield depot were told by management that a bus driver had tested positive to COVID on Thursday, according to the Transport Workers Union.

TWU NSW State Secretary Richard Olsen said rapid antigen testing was a necessity for transport workers, who were continuing to move essential workers across the city.
The University of Melbourne has apologised to casual staff for years of underpayment but workers and the union say the university is not doing enough to address ongoing insecure working conditions.

Vice-chancellor Duncan Maskell on Thursday sent a letter of apology to all casual staff, more than a year after the university agreed to pay back millions in stolen wages.

University of Melbourne Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell. Credit:Justin McManus

Where these errors have occurred over a number of years, they represent a systemic failure of respect from this institution for those valued, indeed vital, employees. This failure should not, and will not, be tolerated by our institution, he wrote.

Putting things right will take time but a great deal of work has already been done, and is continuing as a matter of priority.
Police have responded to a disturbance at the home of Richard Pusey, the Porsche driver who filmed police officers in the moments after they were hit by a truck on the Eastern Freeway last year.

Pusey, 43, was released from Ravenhall Correctional Centre on August 25 having served time for outraging public decency and other offences.

Richard Pusey leaves jail in August. Credit:Joe Armao

Police officers attended his home on Wednesday night, having been called to the home about 7.50pm following reports of yelling and loud music at the address.

Police have spoken to an occupant in relation to the matter and the investigation is ongoing, a police spokesperson said.
Taking a medical test can be a frightening experience for some kids, but as we know, testing is critical in limiting the spread of COVID-19 among young Victorians, Mr Foley said. The states COVID-19 figures also come after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced her state was set to move out of lockdown in October, after the state hits 70 per cent full vaccination. In Victoria, Premier Daniel Andrews has made clear zero cases is no longer achievable with the Delta variant of COVID-19 circulating in metropolitan Melbourne. Steps out of lockdown for the city now also depend on the state reaching vaccination targets.

Loading Mr Andrews has pledged to mildly relax some restrictions when that figure reaches 70 per cent in coming weeks. Shepparton also remains in lockdown, but Mr Andrews said he should be able to make announcements about restrictions in the regional city next week. Public housing towers among new exposure sites Two of Melbournes public housing towers have been declared COVID-19 exposure sites.

A public housing tower at 12 Holland Court is not listed as an exposure site on the Department of Healths official website, however, a Department of Families, Fairness and Housing spokesman confirmed a positive case there had been moved into alternative accommodation and deep cleaning was under way. The community response has been fantastic, with large numbers already getting tested on site, the spokesman said. The public housing tower at 12 Holland Court in Flemington. Last month, the nearby public housing towers at 126 and 130 Racecourse Road were also declared exposure sites, with families in both testing positive for COVID-19. Another public housing tower at 33 Alfred Street in North Melbourne was listed as a tier-2 site on the Health Departments website across Tuesday and Wednesday. Both that tower and the tower at 12 Holland Court were among nine in the state locked down with no warning on July 4, 2020.

The lockdown prompted an inquiry by the Victorian Ombudsman, who found the governments decision to enforce the immediate isolation of about 3000 tenants violated human rights. The Health Department listed dozens more new COVID-19 exposure sites on Thursday, including Pascoe Vale Primary School and the Ilim Colleges Glenroy campus, both of which were declared tier-1 sites. Loading Two medical practices - one in Taylors Lakes and one in Keilor East - were also among declared tier 1, as was a dental practice at Craigieburn. A cafeteria at Northern Hospital in Epping was among new tier-2 sites, as was an early learning centre at Fawkner. Apartment complexes at Southbank, Docklands, Essendon and on Collins Street in the CBD were also declared tier-2.

Authorities warned that even though Coles at Coburg was declared tier-two over three days, the Health Department would contact some tier-one contacts there. Highpoint Shopping Centre at Maribyrnong was again in the mix of tier-two sites, with EB Games there identified as at-risk. No COVID-19 patients in Victorian hospitals fully vaccinated Mr Foley said not one of the 111 COVID-19 patients in hospital in Victoria had been fully vaccinated. He said 89 per cent of people in hospital have had no vaccine, while 11 per cent had one dose.

Thirty-two people are in intensive care and 19 people need a ventilator. A vaccinated aged care worker at a facility in Gladstone Park in Melbournes northwest has also tested positive to COVID-19, Mr Foley said, although no residents or staff members have contracted the virus. A V/Line spokesman confirmed on Thursday evening that a train driver had tested positive for COVID-19. The driver worked on Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, the last two days with a trainee driver.

A V/Line train driver has tested positive for coronavirus. Credit:Justin McManus He spent time at one of V/Lines operation depots at Southern Cross Station and in a drivers recreation room at Traralgon Station. The depot was deep cleaned on Thursday, as was Traralgon station. Some staff were identified as contacts of the driver. At this stage, there has not been any service changes due to staff undertaking precautionary isolation and COVID-19 testing, the V/Line spokesman said. Deputy Chief Health Officer Professor Ben Cowie said 63.2 per cent of eligible Victorians had received at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

There were 81,000 bookings made through the state system on Wednesday, but more than 7000 appointments are available for a first dose of AstraZeneca over the next seven days. Concern over spread of the virus in citys north Professor Cowie said transmission in Melbournes northern suburbs remained a concern, with opening hours at three testing sites in the area extended. Of the new cases announced on Thursday, 195 were in the northern suburbs where more than half of all active cases live.
The University of Western Australias proposal to cut eight academic staff from the school of molecular sciences has been met with increasing frustration and anger, with the union representing academics resorting to Freedom of Information laws to seek answers over the restructures.

The latest proposal will cut six staff from chemistry and two from biochemistry, abolish any teaching of computational chemistry, remove the split chemistry major so that undergraduates can no longer have a specific synthetic chemistry or physical/analytical chemistry major, and nearly double student-to-staff ratios.

UWA PhD students make a stand against cuts to molecular sciences.

PhD students are outraged, saying they will not stand for a proposal that robs us of our research directions, quality, and the dedicated guidance of our academic mentors.

The COVID-19 pandemic has proven the immeasurable value of technologies that result from basic research into the molecular sciences, they said in a statement.
The West Australian government has spent at least $1.47 million fighting the myriad of court actions brought against it by Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer and anticipates spending a further $3.25 million over the next two years for ongoing cases.

Budget papers tabled in WA parliament on Thursday revealed the extent of the governments legal costs in the State Solicitors Office to counter actions from Mr Palmer, such as a $28 billion damages claim over Pilbara iron ore interests, a defamation case against the premier, and a challenge of domestic hard border controls.

The West Australian government could be on the hook for about $4.7 million in legal fees in its legal battles with Queensland billionaire Clive Palmer. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen/Trevor Collens

The state successfully defended Mr Palmers High Court constitutional challenge over border controls in November but is still gearing up for a defamation case against Premier Mark McGowan which includes a cross-claim from the politician.

Mr Palmer is suing the premier because of comments like one which labelled him an enemy of the state which he claims brought him hatred, ridicule, and contempt.
The scandal-plagued Thai minister who spent time in an Australian jail for drug importation has been forced out of his cabinet post after succumbing to an internal party brawl.

Thammanat Prompao, a former factional heavyweight in the coalition government who once served as a bodyguard to the Thai royal family, said he was upset over rumours he was plotting to undermine Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

He was reported to have tried to broker an alliance with an opposition party to oust Prayut, and alienated members of his own party in the process. Prayut survived a censure motion on Saturday, with rumours the PM was offering up to $200,000 per vote  a claim he denied.

Then Thai minister Thammanat Prompao in 2020. Credit:Facebook

A decree from the Prime Minister said that King Maha Vajiralongkorn agreed Thammanat and another minister should leave for the betterment of the country.
London: Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has returned to Balmoral Castle as attempts to serve him legal papers over sex allegations continue.

Andrew, 61, who has not been seen in public for several weeks, travelled 800 km from his home in Windsor to the Queens Scottish estate on Tuesday.

Britains Prince Andrew in a rare public appearance at a church service following the death of his father Prince Philip. Credit:AP

Efforts began last month to present him with a copy of a civil lawsuit in which Virginia Roberts Giuffre alleges rape in the first degree and sexual assault, all of which Andrew denies. Australia-based Giuffre alleges she was trafficked by the late American paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, a friend of Andrews.

The prince has so far avoided repeated attempts to hand him the lawsuit. The visit to the Queen, his second this northern summer, was planned some time ago, it is understood.
"I think I would have likely fallen into the Jo category," says actor-playwright Sandy Rustin, imagining the role she might at one time have liked to play in the Mystic Pizza musical she has penned, and which is now having its world premiere through October 2 at Maine's Ogunquit Playhouse. "I was always sort of the Meg Brockie character in Brigadoon, and I think our Jo character is probably the closest," she adds laughing. "But I'm perfectly happy to stay in the writer's position for Mystic Pizza."

Fresh from adapting the 1985 film Clue for the stage, Rustin is shifting gears from murder mystery to pizza mystery to craft a stage version of the 1988 rom-com that made pie slinging romantic and Julia Roberts's coiffure famous. Being a pandemic project, Rustin and director Casey Hushion (teaming up again after their Clue collaboration) set up shop in Rustin's garage, heated through the winter by propane floor lamps, and set about dramatizing the small-town trials of Kat, Daisy, and Jojo  three young women sorting out life and love while waitressing at a Podunk pizza joint with the world's most heavily guarded recipes.

With their orchestrator and music supervisor Carmel Dean joining Rustin and Hushion by Zoom from Australia at odd times of day to pick the perfect '80s hits to go into the score, Mystic Pizza has been an exercise in resourcefulness, joy, and nostalgia. Rustin and her collaborators are finally able to see what they have up on its feet. And while the recipe may require some tweaking, there's a good chance an '80s-themed pizza party will chase away the quarantine blues.

This conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Sandy Rustin

( Theo & Juliet Photography)

You're officially in a theater with a brand-new musical! What's the feeling among the cast and creative team now that you've all made it back to the stage?



It's been really special to have an opportunity to make a new musical at the tail end  or what we hope is the tail end -- of this pandemic. For most everybody working on the show, this was our first big back-at-it. And the score to Mystic Pizza is entirely comprised of hits from the '80s, [which is] so nostalgic of this pre-pandemic, teenage fun zone. So there's definitely been an energy of joy throughout the whole thing. And the Ogunquit Playhouse here in Maine has created a humongous, 25,000-square-foot outdoor tent in order to keep audiences and casts safe. It's a little bit like a circus tent, but then it has all these technical capabilities. My sons stopped by tech rehearsal and were like, "This feels like NASA." It's very cool.

Before this project, where did Mystic Pizza sit in your own movie-watching universe?



I was in middle school when Mystic Pizza came out, and it was rated R, so I was not allowed to see it. I saw it on like a Blockbuster video at some point in the '90s, and I remember loving it at the time. And then I set it aside. When it came back into my life, obviously I rewatched the movie. There are a million things that are relevant and pertain to a 2021 audience. But there were also some things in the film that needed a fresh look through a 2021 lens. We still very much have set the play in 1988. There's still '80s through the roof through the whole show. But we also wanted to be mindful of the growth that audiences have done in the last 30-plus years  be mindful of the #MeToo movement and present these three young women as more than just characters seen through the male gaze. I really felt like that was my task as the person adapting the show to the stage.

How do you balance three romantic storylines with the women's own stories as individuals as well as the friendship that ties them all together?



I consciously wanted to maintain the rom-com component of this. I think it's central to the film. And I didn't feel that you could successfully adapt Mystic Pizza for the stage without having summer romance as part of what these stories are. That said, I think what is hinted at in the film, but is now more in focus in the stage play, is the ambition of these three girls beyond their relationships with men. Female friendship and empowering other women is certainly a focus. But even more than that is  what else did these three women want other than love? Which isn't to say that wanting love is bad or that wanting love isn't worth telling a story about. I think it is. But I also think it's important to show that you can want love and pursue love and also want other things in your life. All three of these women have really clear wishes beyond love, which happen simultaneously with the pursuit of love. So I think that was the fine line to toe in this.

When you were doing your first Mystic Pizza rewatch, what was a moment in the movie that made you confident that this property was suited for a musical?



There were a lot of moments, actually. But the one that stands out when you ask that question is where the character of Daisy mistakenly thinks that her boyfriend Charlie has lied to her and cheated on her when really he's just at a country club dancing with his sister. In the film, she dumps a pick-up truck worth of smelly fish into his Porsche. It's one of those classic moments from the film. That felt to me like the kind of heightened energy that is worthy of a musical, so we've done that through song in our show. When that happens in our show, her fury takes her to a Melissa Etheridge whaling song. I think it does the dump-of-the-fish-truck justice, which obviously we couldn't do onstage.

I think it's important to note that Mystic Pizza has an all-female creative team  which is wonderful on an industry level but complicated to celebrate without implying that it's some kind of gimmick or anomalous phenomenon. How do those moving pieces sort themselves out in your own mind?



Here's what I'll say. When Casey and I are given the opportunity to build out a creative team, our first goal is to always find the very best people for the job. That is really our guiding principle. While we're doing that, we're simultaneously looking at, Are there women that answer that question? And we have been really fortunate to say, "Yeah. She is the best for this job." So that's what I rub up against. It's like, yeah, it is an all-female creative team. Not because we went out to seek women, but because these women were the best for the job. I do think for Mystic Pizza, the focus is on three strong ambitious women, and so to fill the room with people who exude that same energy did feel important to us. But also we got kick-ass ladies to do the job.
"My first trip back into the city, I thought it would feel strange," she says. "What surprised me is that it felt normal. And suddenly everything that'd come before  all of it  felt like a dream."

Simple words, yet in a not-quite-post-pandemic world of returning to the theater, it's an oddly profound statement. It comes midway through Richard Nelson's elegiac play What Happened?: The Michaels Abroad, running through October 8 at Hunter College's Frederick Loewe Theatre, and it underscores what we're all thinking now as we once again resume sitting knee to knee with strangers in the dark, masked and vaccinated, and reflecting on what the heck we were just fortunate enough to survive.

The (supposed) last play in Nelson's Rhinebeck Panorama series, What Happened? is the only of the 12 dramas to be set outside the bucolic New York State town and instead takes place in Angers, France. There, rising dancer and choreographer Lucy Michael (Charlotte Bydwell) has been on a six-month residency that has ballooned, for pandemic reasons, into a year and a half. Lucy is the daughter of Rose Michael, a legendary modern dance choreographer who has recently passed away from Covid complications while battling ovarian cancer. Lucy's father, David (Jay O. Sanders), his wife, Sally (Rita Wolf), and Kate Harris (Maryann Plunkett), her mother's widow, among others, are in the small town for Lucy's big presentation, in which she'll pay tribute to the landmark works of Rose's career.

Like the 11-preceding works in the cycle (including the three from 2020 which were presented as Zoom conversations), What Happened? is set over the course of two hours as the attendees cook (in this case, a lasagna that smelled divine even with masks on) and debate the events of the world. David, an arts manager, wonders about taking a job running a performing arts center in Utica with a friend who resigned from a New York theater company after the Black Lives Matter movement; Irenie (Havlind Morris), a former dancer with Rose's now-defunct company, reflects on spending a year in lockdown with the only companionship coming from her dog; Suzanne (Yvonne Woods), whose house in Angers is where they've gathered, is distressed at the prospect of being all alone once Lucy and her younger cousin May (Matilda Sakamoto), also a dancer, eventually depart. It's impossible for them not to discuss Rose, the erstwhile matriarch, and each character's heartache is still present in different ways.

What Happens? is not just a play about grief, but about what happens to family traditions when the person responsible for them shuffles off the mortal coil. It's a subject I suspect a lot of people will relate to, and because of that (and the fact that it's set on the second night of Rosh Hashanah, a family gathering holiday), I found What Happens? to be perhaps the most moving play in Nelson's Rhinebeck series, filled with raw, honest emotion that's amplified by 18 months of loss.

The performances, as typical, are just wonderful. Nelson's plays (which he also directs) are usually a vehicle for Plunkett, an actor who can wring tears from even the driest eyes, and in What Happened?, that's no different. She's equally matched, like always, by real-life husband Sanders, whose acting here is unexpectedly vulnerable and really quite beautiful, as well as Bydwell, who, with Sakamoto, performs a series of ornate dances around the very tiny performance space.

Because of that elaborate dance sequence, What Happened? might be a shock for certain audience members for whom this is their first time out. The actors and audience are on top of each other, and while audience members all there masked, being that close to a group of unmasked performers talking and breathing on each other (and occasionally us) will feel a little jarring, despite the knowledge that everyone in the room is fully vaccinated. But if you can get past that, it's well worth the trip for this lovely little play that asks the same questions we all have, and grapples, just as we do, with the fact that there are no easy answers when it comes to this brave and scary new world.
Teacher Vanessa Rosario greets students outside of iPrep Academy on the first day of school, Monday, Aug. 23, 2021, in Miami. Schools in Miami-Dade County opened Monday with a strict mask mandate to guard against coronavirus infections.
Salmon Stream Lake, with Mount Katahdin in the distance, is seen in Baxter State Park in Piscataquis County, Maine.
Up for debate:

Live legislation tracker

Check out the latest developments on bills pending before state lawmakers in four key topics.
Former lieutenant governor during the administration of Scott Walker, Rebecca Kleefisch announced she'll oppose Gov. Tony Evers in his 2022 reelection bid.
Remember folding paper maps? I suppose in the age of GPS, most of us dont think of them, and if we do, its to recall just what a pain they could be. Unless you pulled off the road, they were impossible for the driver to use. If your shotgun partner was your navigator, hed take up most of the front seat unfolding a map. Then hed have to partially refold it to highlight just that part of the country you really needed to see. And of course, hed have to shake it out to full size to begin refolding it. It wouldnt take many openings and closings before it would begin to tear along the creases, and that would create new problems. Read more
Voters can request absentee ballots now

Voter ID required for early and Election Day voting

Early and absentee voting for the 1% specific purpose sales and use tax (6th penny) election begins Friday, Sept. 17, and runs through Monday, Nov. 1.

Voters can cast their ballots, pick up a sample ballot, register to vote, and update their registration in the atrium of the Laramie County Governmental Complex, 309 W. 20th St. The site is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with the exception of legal holidays. Voters are asked to enter the atrium through the east entrance on Carey Avenue. Signage will be posted to direct voters and to remind them of the states new voter ID requirement.

What is new for this election is that all voters are required to present identification at the polls before voting early or on Election Day. Wyomings voter ID law went into effect on July 1. said Lee. Acceptable voter ID includes the Wyoming drivers license or identification card, student ID from the University of Wyoming, a Wyoming community college or public school, U.S. military ID, tribal ID, valid U.S. passport, or Medicaid/Medicare card. She added that those who have questions on the requirements are welcome to contact the Clerks election office at 633-4242.

Lee noted that protocols put in place during the 2020 elections to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be in place during early voting. Those measures include social distancing signage, personal protective equipment worn by poll workers, hand sanitizer and masks available for registrants and voters, sanitized pens, disposable straws to mark the touchscreen ballot, and regular sanitization of voting machines. Voters are strongly encouraged to wear face covering.

Persons who want to register to vote or update registration information due to address, name, or party affiliation changes will be asked for their Wyoming driving license if they have one. Other accepted documents for registration include any valid government-issued ID including Wyoming ID, tribal, military or student ID, U.S. passport, or driving license from other state.

Eligibility requirements for voter registration include U.S. citizenship, Laramie County residency, age 18 by the date of the election, not adjudicated mentally incompetent, and if convicted of a felony, voting rights must have been restored. Restoration of voting rights is automatic for first-time nonviolent felons who completed their supervision or were discharged from an institution on or after Jan. 1, 2010.

Registered voters wishing to receive an absentee ballot may request one by visiting the office, calling the election office at 633-4242, or emailing election@laramiecountyclerk.com (subject Absentee ballot). Voters must provide their name, residential and mailing address, date of birth, and contact information. Lee said her office will mail 300 absentee ballots next week to those who have requested them.

The public test of voting equipment, required by law to be held prior to every election, will take place Thursday, Sept. 16, at 10:00 a.m. in the atrium. Lee said the test is conducted to ensure the accuracy and readiness of the equipment before its use in the election.

For more information on the upcoming election, the sample ballot, voter registration, or voter ID requirements, visit https://elections.laramiecountyclerk.com/ or call the election office of the county clerk at (307) 633-4242.
Governor Mark Gordon continues to lead planning efforts on how to most effectively invest in the future of Wyoming. The public engagement and planning process is continuing, as the Governors Strike Team prepares recommendations on how best to utilize state funds awarded under the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARP).

The Governor previously expressed his commitment to a thoughtful, purposeful, transparent, and strategic approach to handling ARP funds. He has assembled a Strike Team that includes members of his cabinet, legislators and local elected officials to develop recommendations on short, medium, and long-term goals that will inform the use of the funds.

The Governors plan to Survive, Drive and Thrive was published in June, identifying three areas of focus:

Health and Social Services

Education and Workforce

Economic Diversity and Economic Development

For each area, Governor Gordon has directed strike team members to focus on solutions to challenges identified through a survey sent to stakeholders earlier this year. Agency partners have continued additional public outreach with community members, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to directly identify issues and potential solutions. This feedback is critical as they look to develop new and expanded programs, services, and other resources.

The work that were doing has been informed by the on-the-ground information were getting from across Wyoming, Governor Gordon said. Im looking forward to seeing the ideas that are generated through this process and then discussing them with all residents and legislators.

The process includes developing proposals for initiatives or new programs for consideration by the Legislature. Unlike previously received federal relief funds, the state has more than five years to spend ARP funds.

For instance, the Wyoming Business Council is leading Drive Goal #2 to strengthen Wyomings economy and revenue streams, engaging in public and one-on-one meetings to identify specific challenges and develop projects and proposals that show evidence-based links to increasing jobs, wages, economic output, or state revenue. Another example is that the Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources is developing ideas to enhance outdoor recreation in Wyoming. They are using feedback from local collaboratives to shape their planning and recommendations.

In addition, members of the Strike Team are engaging stakeholders to develop proposals to address challenges related to workforce development, education, childcare, food insecurity, healthcare, wildlife conservation, and making government more efficient.

The Governors office will provide an update on ARP expenditure planning to the Legislatures Joint Appropriations Committee at 4 pm today. This is the third public meeting to discuss the Drive and Thrive planning. Final proposals for the first round of spending are due in October and will be presented to the Legislature at the end of the year. Those proposals will then be debated and considered by the full Legislature.
The Board of Trustees of Laramie County School District #1 met in special session Wednesday night, and decided on new rules concerning the wearing of masks in schools. School Superintendent Dr. Margaret Crespo sent this letter to parents and the public explaining the rules.

Dear LCSD1 Families,

As we have stated earlier, our goal is to stay in school for in-person learning. Most recently, the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department (CLCHD) has shared a level of urgency regarding masks and the need to return to face coverings.

Laramie County remains in the high-risk, red category for community transmission based on the total new cases per 100,000 in the past week and the percentage of positive tests. Additionally, Cheyenne Regional Medical Center is at capacity and is using other areas including the emergency room and pediatric floor to house COVID-19 patients.

Just as we have seen in the community, our district has experienced a rise in positive COVID-19 cases and an increase in student and staff quarantines. Since Aug. 18, almost 1,000 students and staff have been quarantined. Currently, more than 420 are in quarantine. Additionally, we have seen more than 180 positive cases since Aug. 18 and currently have more than 90 active positive cases.

Due to these factors, Laramie County School District 1 has issued an addendum to its Smart Start Plan. Starting tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 9, the district will require all students and staff to wear a mask when they are unable to social distance by 6 feet. Mask free zones and mask breaks will be utilized in all classrooms.

Please help us follow the Big 4If you feel sick or have symptoms stay home and contact your health care provider. Wash or sanitize your hands frequently. Social distance when possible. Wear face masks when you cant social distance.

We understand that parents have choices and as a mom, I make them for my own children every day. We are asking you to help us keep your child in school, out of quarantine and connected to their teachers, friends and learning.

The mask protocol will continue as long as Laramie County remains in the High (Red) or Substantial (Orange) levels of community transmission, as designated through the CLCHD Transmission Risk Dashboard. Covid-19 County Guidance | City County Health (laramiecountycovid.com)

If Laramie County is in the Moderate (Yellow) or Low (Green) designation, universal mask wearing is recommended indoors and in crowded outdoor settings. This applies to everyone other than children under the age of two or with a medical exemption from a healthcare professional. When that occurs, another notice will be sent out engaging the recommended protocol.

Please note, because of recent changes in legislation, Wyoming school districts are faced with making health protocol decisions. The decision to wear masks is not taken lightly and is made following input from state and county health officials.

We will continue to monitor this situation and will send another update soon.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margaret Crespo

Superintendent of Schools
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DuBois, PA (15801)

Today

Scattered thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High around 75F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms this evening, then skies turning partly cloudy after midnight. Low 58F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Towanda, PA (18848)

Today

Partly cloudy early. Thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 80F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional rain...mainly this evening. Low 59F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall near a quarter of an inch.
Oneonta, NY (13820)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 78F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 100%..

Tonight

Rain likely. Low 57F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 90%. Rainfall around a quarter of an inch.
Jeff Robbins, a former assistant U.S. attorney and delegate to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, was chief counsel for the minority of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. An attorney specializing in the First Amendment, he is a longtime columnist for the Boston Herald, writing on politics, national security, human rights and the Middle East.
Reporter

Senior at West Virginia University. I am currently majoring in journalism with a minor in sports communication, with the desire to one day cover the world of athletics professionally. I look forward to reporting to my fellow peers here at WVU.
News

Schools mask mandate remains intact

scarpenter / Photo/Rutherford County Schools The Rutherford County Schools finance office was recognized by the Board of Education Tuesday night. The department recently received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 30th consecutive year. Pictured are: Anita Bradley, Ann Gurley, Star McGinnis, Angie Ownbey and Director Heidi Kerns.

FOREST CITY  The Rutherford County Schools (RCS) mask mandate will remain in place despite renewed objections by parents. Some of those objections were unruly, which led to ejection.

The Board of Education decided at its meeting Tuesday night to leave the mask requirement intact. All but one agreed that it was in the best interest of the students, to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to reduce the number of students required to quarantine. Board member Brandi Nanney voted against extending the mandate.

At the beginning of the meeting, during the time for public comments, two people, Stephanie Parsons and Kelly Wiggen, were critical of the board and its decisions regarding masks. Zach Parker, who represents the Rutherford County Association of Teachers, thanked the board for considering the health and safety of students and staff.

Parsons was the first to offer comments. She claimed to have recently moved to the area, after fleeing Buncombe County because of tyranny and dictators.

Now, she said, We dont have any rights over our children or our bodies.

Parsons said the RCS board was a jihadist regime, and claimed that board members were taking the action regarding the pandemic, only to merchandise our kids.

Masks do nothing but hinder education, she said.

Then, she threatened the board with legal action. Later in the meeting, Parsons talked loudly to others around her, and yelled directly at board members, before she was forcibly removed from the building by security.

Apparently this was not Parsons first time at disrupting the meetings and proceedings of public bodies. A video clip available on social media shows Parsons screaming during a meeting of the Buncombe County Board of Education in August.

In May, Parsons was part of a protest against vaccines, held in Raleigh.

At that event, Parsons told a television news outlet in part, Why should we ever inject something into our bodies that could possibly harm us? It goes against the Nuremberg code of ethics...

Kelly Wiggen was also angry at the board. She explained that she had recently removed her children from Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy because of that schools mask mandate. She then offered her criticism of the RCS quarantine procedures, and said the board members are dictators.

Parker, however, offered his support for the board, and said he understands the board members are in a difficult position and have to make difficult, sometimes unpopular decisions.

He then asked the board to be more forceful in encouraging citizens of Rutherford County to become vaccinated.

Vaccinations, Parker said, are the key to helping the community return to normal.

Before the board voted to continue with the mask mandate, Superintendent David Sutton reviewed the RCS COVID-19 mitigation procedures and current data. It was noted that with the mask mandate, the rate of quarantine for students due to school exposures will come down.

There are students in school now, who would not be there under the old optional mask policy, Sutton said.

School officials emphasized again that they are not looking for ways to send students into quarantine.

We are not eager to send kids home, regardless of what you may be hearing, said Brad Teague, RCS chief operating officer.

Several board members re-stated their desire to keep the schools open in a safe and healthy manner for students and staff.

Board member Sherry Bright made the motion to maintain the mask mandate. Board member Rick Ficklin seconded the motion.

The motion passed 6-1 with Nanney opposing.

State law requires all local school boards to revisit local mask policy and vote to maintain or amend, each month.

In other business, Sutton noted that state testing results for the 2020-2021 school year are now being released, and RCS officials will present results at the October board meeting.

Sutton acknowledged that the scores statewide are lower than in previous years.

Results from state testing...are an indicator of formidable challenges that students and educators across North Carolina faced during one of the most severe disruptions to public education the state and nation have ever confronted, Sutton said. Tests designed to be administered at the same time and based on typical face-to-face classroom instruction were taken under widely varying conditions, often after an entire year of atypical, remote instruction.

State education officials emphasized the tests results are not valid for making accountability determinations, but are meant instead to provide information about student performance to help design and deploy resources and supports.

Also at the meeting, the RCS finance office was recognized for receiving the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting, for fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO).

ASBO Internationals Certificate of Excellence recognizes districts that have met the programs high standards for financial reporting and accountability, and this marks the 30th consecutive year that ASBO International has recognized Rutherford County Schools with the award, Sutton said.

Finance Officer Heidi Kerns and her team, Angie Ownbey, Anita Bradley, Ann Gurley and Star McGinnis were recognized.
Forest City, NC (28043)

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 around 85F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional showers. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
A Journey to Banff National Park

From paddling the glacial waters of Lake Louise to hiking Sentinel Pass

The black sand beach along the Athabaska River is a serene place to write and reflect upon our week-long escape. My faithful black-and-white companion sits at my feet. The water is fast and loud. Against the rivers edge, small waves kiss the sand. There are two peaks in the distance obscured by a veil of gray smoke. Im unsure of where the forests are burning. Thinking about it makes my heart feel heavy. My eyes are stinging and my throat is dry.

A chimney formation at the saddle of Sentinel Pass. (Tami Ellis)

Here in Alberta, the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Banff National Park and Lake Louise are places that feel like my backyard. Two Jack Lake is where we started our little odyssey. The heavily wooded campground is sheltered by massive rock walls. The commercialized town of Banff is a little more quiet than usual. We poke around the shops, purchase some boots, and settle in at a little roadside Tex-Mex restaurant for dinner.

Crossing the snowfield en route to and returning from Sentinel Pass. (Tami Ellis)

Nestled within the mountains at 5,400 feet is majestic Lake Louise, Canadas most elevated community. The lake is named after Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll. The area was initially settled in 1884 as an outpost for the Canadian Pacific Railway. The immense chateau sits on the eastern shore of the lake. It was originally built in 1890 to attract deep-pocketed travelers to the allure of trains and the beautiful landscape of the West. While the attraction hasnt changed, parking fees and lot attendants seem to tarnish the feel of country wilderness.

As many times as Ive hiked and climbed here, Ive never paddled the lake. It takes some commitment to shuttle our kayak and paddleboard along the trails to the water, but its well worth the sweat and effort. It was a beautiful experience to be here at a time when the lake was so quiet. The color of the water is unexplainable other than otherworldly blue. It might conjure scenes of the Caribbean, except that at 39 degrees Fahrenheit, the glacier waters are bone-chillingly frigid. The psychedelic turquoise comes from fine glacier dust created by the movement of the glacier to bedrock. The dust is suspended in the water and refracts blue and green wavelengths of light. Some scientists say that as glaciers melt, the color may change in years to come.

A reprieve from the lung-busting switchbacks en route to Sentinel Pass. (Tami Ellis)

Sentinel Pass

Sentinel Pass is on our agenda. We awaken at the crack of dawn as we know the parking lot to the trailhead will fill quickly. We gulp a cup of warm, creamy coffee, pack up the camper and drive away from the village of Lake Louise. We are so disappointed, as its just 7:30 a.m., to see a man waving people on with a flashing sign stating that the parking lot is full.

Overlooking Sentinel Pass. (Tami Ellis)

I shout at him from the window. We want to hike Sentinel. Is there room? He waves us in and yells that we, with our truck and camper, can take a normal spot. It pays to ask questions or pray. We toss our plan B and drive to the trailhead near Moraine Lake.

Moraine Lake is another turquoise jewel sitting beneath the towering peaks that seem to stand at attention and guard this precious gem. This is the start and finish point for hiking to Sentinel Pass.

Athabaska Falls. (Tami Ellis)

We scour the camper for our lunch and snacks, putting careful attention into what we may need for mountain travel. Based upon challenging experiences, I make it a point to prepare for all seasons even if the day begins at 80 degrees. This means that in addition to sunscreen and a brimmed hat, I also pack an extra set of leggings, a rain shell, and a down coat or vest. One just never knows when hail shall rain down or mountain winds come out of nowhere  or now here, as we say in the world of yoga and wilderness travel.

En route to the pass, the trail is easy to follow and begins with a lung-busting series of switchbacks before it meanders through a valley of wildflowers. As we approach what looks to be a vertical impasse, out in the smoke-filled distance, if I squint a little harder, I can see the faint line of switchbacks dotting the landscape and leading to the saddle of Sentinel. This is a head-down, bum-up sort of ascent where both the legs and the lungs burn in overdrive. At least half a gallon of water is needed to quench my continued thirst.

The authors dog. (Tami Ellis)

As we travel along the path, there is a bit of exposure on the left side where a misstep could send a person sliding down a massive scree slope. Eyes on the trail and calculated steps keep us safe and moving forward. As the top of the saddle becomes closer, I shift gears into my second breath. The views are worth the agonized legs. Rock, spires, and giant chimneys greet us at the top. Out in the distance is a climber ascending a chimney that is standing alone. His white helmet and red shirt are stark against the smoky haze.

Lunch on a ledge is a sheer delight. We stay for a while and take in the beauty of this precious life before retracing our steps back to Moraine Lake.

To climb mountains is to suffer. There is nothing easy about getting to the top, but isnt character about putting boots to the ground and start walking, knowing that it will bring a certain amount of discomfort?

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. (Tami Ellis)

How to Get There

Make sure to check for the latest travel requirements and restrictions.

From Calgary, drive approximately 1.5 hours west on the Trans Canada Highway to Banff and Lake Louise. Be sure to stop in Canmore along the way.

For more information, see BanffLakeLouise.com
Prime Minister Scott Morrison and 2021 Australian of the Year winner Grace Tame during the 2021 Australian of the Year Awards at the National Arboretum in Canberra, Australia, on Jan. 25, 2021. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Actions Dont Match Words: Scott Morrisons Womens Summit Speech Criticised

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said every Australian has a responsibility to address the problem with the culture that leads to violence against women but has been criticised for his words not matching his actions.

In his opening address to the National Summit on Womens Safety on Monday, Morrison said Australia does have a problem with an attitude and culture that condones gender inequality.

That is on all of us. Every Australian has a responsibility, he said. And we have to do better and strive to be better.

Morrison called for everyone to play a part to help make the country safe for every woman.

Right now, too many Australian women do not feel safe, and too often, they are not safe, he said. And that is not okay. There is no excuse, and sorry doesnt cut it.

However, Australian of the Year Grace Tame and former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins have both criticised the prime ministers speech.

Tame, a 26-year-old rape survivor, said the Morrison governments actions dont support their words.

She criticised the appointment of Lorraine Finlay as the new human rights commissioner considering her opposition to affirmative consent.

This position of Human Rights Commissioner, this is a power position  So what could have been a really progressive step has actually been a backwards one, Tame told ABC radio.

Finlay also defended her views on Twitter, writing that her concerns with affirmative consent were about the specific law reform issue.

This is a law reform question that people can have different views about, while still sharing a firm commitment to condemning violence and protecting victims, Finlay said.

Tame also said it was inexcusable that Higgins, who was the main catalyst for the summit, was not invited to attend and speak at the event.

I think its inexcusable, and its very telling because this would have been a great opportunity to extend the olive branch, she said.

Higgins was invited though as a delegate by the ACT government and Victims of Crime Commission at the last minute but criticised the difference in the prime ministers words and actions.

While I respect the Prime Minister Scott Morrisons ambitious spirit for the National Womens Security Summit 2021I just cant match this Governments actions with the platitudes and warm sentiments they are all extending today, Higgins wrote on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Minister for Women Marise Payne told the summit that she had seen enormous changes in societal attitudes towards the treatment of women, and society should continue to challenge behaviour that justifies violence.

We have to encourage role models for the behaviours that we want to see and promote respect in all settings, Payne said.
Afghan Foreign Ministry Responds to Talibans Cabinet Announcement as 2 Governments Claim Power

Afghanistans Foreign Ministry on Sept. 8 condemned the Talibans so-called cabinet announcement, after it unveiled its new all-male interim government on Tuesday.

A statement issued by the Afghan embassy in Geneva on Twitter said that the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, which emanates from the free will of the people and epitomizes the vision and aspirations of millions of citizens who made the ultimate sacrifice for the cause of sovereignty, democracy, freedom and independence of their country, condemns the announcement by the Taliban.

It added that the decision goes against the will of the absolute majority of the people of Afghanistan, international agreements, relevant United Nations Security Council, and United Nations Human Rights Council resolutions and undermines the national interests of Afghanistan, including security, stability, unity, and prosperity of the country and its people.

The statement also said that the announcement of the Taliban cabinet will result in undermining Afghanistans political, ethnic, and social diversity, lead to increased tensions, and also undermine the prospect of a comprehensive and lasting peace in the country.

Moreover, it goes without saying that the Taliban have once again reaffirmed their blatant disregard and violation of the fundamental rights and important role of Afghan women and other segments of society.

The statement said that the so-called Taliban cabinet is comprised entirely of individuals who pose a threat to the stability of Afghanistan and condemned them as a national and international security threat.

The Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan noted that all diplomatic missions of the I.R. [Islamic Republic] of Afghanistan will continue their normal functions and duties based on the constitution of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

The Afghan embassys statement clearly indicates it is distancing itself from the Taliban government, and will no doubt lead to issues regarding recognition of the new regime for the international community.

Afghan women shout slogans during an anti-Pakistan protest rally, near the Pakistan embassy in Kabul on Sept. 7, 2021. (Hoshang Hashimi/AFP via Getty Images)

Following the Foreign Ministrys statement, Ambassador Nasir Ahmad Andisha wrote on Twitter, Now we officially have two states, the Emirate of Talibanistan and the Republic of Afghanistan.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced its new government for Afghanistan, challenging claims to rightful government by former Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh, who says he is the legitimate caretaker president according to the countrys constitution adopted in 2004.

The terrorist group appointed Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund as the countrys interim prime minister and co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar as the second-in-command, while Mullah Yaqoob, will be the defense minister.

No non-Taliban figures or women were named to any government positions, despite the Taliban previously stating it would form an inclusive government as part of the Doha agreement.

The lack of diversity in the newly-formed government has sparked concern from the international community, with the United States previously stating that it would not recognize a Taliban-led government if it wasnt inclusive.

A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said in a statement Tuesday that it notes the announced list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women, adding that it was concerned by the affiliations and track records of some of the individuals.

We understand that the Taliban has presented this as a caretaker cabinet. However, we will judge the Taliban by its actions, not words, the spokesperson added.

Afghan women take part in an anti-Pakistan protest near the Pakistan embassy in Kabul on Sept. 7, 2021. (Hoshang Hashimi/AFP via Getty Images)

The UKs Prime Minister Boris Johnson also echoed U.S. concerns, with a spokesperson noting that the government will continue to judge the Taliban on their actions.

We would want to see, in any situation, a diverse group in leadership which seeks to address the pledges that the Taliban themselves have set out, and thats not what we have seen, the spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, European Union spokesperson Peter Stano said the new government does not look like the inclusive and representative formation in terms of the rich ethnic and religious diversity of Afghanistan we hoped to see and that the Taliban were promising over the past weeks, in a statement to media outlets.

It comes amid reports that the Taliban has shut down Internet services and telecommunications in Kabul following widespread protests earlier this week.

Thousands of Afghan men and women took to the streets earlier this week to protest against the Taliban and what they characterized as Pakistani intelligence service ISIs interference in the affairs of the Middle Eastern nation and for allegedly being the guiding hand behind the Talibans return to power.

Some of the protesters carried signs reading ISI stay away. Others shouted slogans such as Azadi [freedom or liberty] and Death to Pakistan.

Kabir Haqmal, ex-programs director and spokesperson at the National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on Thursday wrote on Twitter: Internet is down in most parts of the capital Kabul. Following the recent protests against [the] Taliban, the group has decided to cut the internet connections. Reports say, Taliban intelligence orders the blockage- they afraid the messages circulation through social media.

Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary also wrote on Twitter early Thursday morning: Confirmed to me by multiple sources in telecom sector : Taliban forced telecoms to switch off internet on mobile phones for the following areas until 2PM today: Taimani Khairkhana Khawja bughra (near kabul airport) Dashti brachia Qasaba.

The Epoch Times has been unable to verify the reports of the Internet outages.
Travelers wait to drop their baggage at the American Airlines counter in the Miami International Airport in Miami, Fla., on Sept. 3, 2021. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

American Airlines Pilots Are Going on Strike

The airports with planned demonstrations will include the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Miami International Airport

American Airlines (AAL) has made no shortage of headlines this summerperhaps only a shortage of staffers.

After a tumultuous season, the labor union representing the airlines pilots has announced that it will begin informational picketing in three of the airlines major hubs on account of fatigue, lack of adequate accommodation and an unjust work schedule.

The airports with planned demonstrations include Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (where American Airlines is headquartered) and Miami International Airport.

Related: American Airlines Desperately Asks Employees to Volunteer

Our airline needs scheduling practices that support the safety margin, respect pilots and passengers needs, and de-risk American Airlines to protect and improve revenue, the Allied Pilots Association said in a statement.

The scheduled demonstrations dont exactly come as a surprise.

Back in June, the airline began canceling hundreds of scheduled flights due to lack of staff and other weather- and maintenance-related issues, continuing to cancel between 50 and 80 flights per day through the middle of July.

The first few weeks of June have brought unprecedented weather to our largest hubs, heavily impacting our operation and causing delays, canceled flights, and disruptions to crewmember schedules and our customers plans, American Airlines said in a statement at the time.

Related: American Airlines Will Cancel Hundreds of Flights Due to Staffing Shortages

That, combined with the labor shortages some of our vendors are contending with and the incredibly quick ramp-up of customer demand, has led us to build in additional resilience and certainty to our operation by adjusting a fraction of our scheduled flying through mid-July.

Prior to that, it was reported that the company was asking its Dallas/Fort Worth employees to pick up extra shifts during the summer months without offering any additional compensation such as overtime pay or bonuses.

American Airlines lost nearly 30 percent of its workforce (40,000 workers) due to pandemic-related cuts and voluntary leave last October.

The airline, however, was up around 5.52 percent year over year as of Wednesday morning.
Antonio Graceffo: Chinas Internal and External War of Propaganda to Throw the World Into Chaos

The Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) propaganda systems both within the country and abroad are running full steam ahead. Its a part of an overall strategy to dominate the flow of information in the world. This comes from a desire to control the narrative on various aspects of the issues most concerning to citizens in the free world. In particular, the United States is suffering from false information the CCP has manufactured on COVID-19, racial tension, and much more.

The CCPs goal is to build up an internal conflict so large that will eventually topple society. I spoke with Dr. Antonio Graceffo, a China expert with 20 years of experience in Asia who has studied the CCPs propaganda and its effects inside China and abroadin particular how it has affected the people of Americato understand how the CCP operates its propaganda machines, and finally, what to do to stop this.

Join us for part 1: Chinas Internal and External War of Propaganda to Throw the World Into Chaos.
People are seen outside the Royal Exhibition Building Vaccination Centre in Carlton in Melbourne, Australia, on Aug. 25, 2021. (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Aussie Pub Welcomes Unvaccinated Customers

The owners of a pub in Australia have announced on social media that they will welcome all customers whether they have been vaccinated for COVID-19 or not.

The Grand Hotel is a popular venue in the town of Healesville, north of the states capital, Melbourne.

Jab or no jab, everyone is welcome at the Grand Hotel Healesville, the post read.

The message soon went viral, being shared 2.9 thousand times and with over 13 thousand likes and heartsand only 95 negative reactions.

Amongst the 5.3 thousand comments, responses to the post were mostly positive.

One user wrote: Love this. Good on you guys. Its such a delight to see not all are discriminating [against] those who chose not to have a jab. Ill absolutely be there to support your amazing business.

Many people thanked the establishment for not discriminating against people who are not vaccinated.

I love how you are not discriminating [against] anyone. Good on you guys great to see, another user wrote.

Another user wrote: Awesome to see your stance to not discriminate will definitely make a point of visiting and supporting you.

At least one person expressed concern that government policies that allow more freedoms only for the vaccinated would create two classes of society.

I do not want to live in a two-tiered society, so thank you, Grand Hotel Healesville, for making this stand, one user wrote.

But not everyone was happy about it.

Another user wrote: I certainly wont be going there in a hurry if this is the way they think about the community.

One user identified herself as a healthcare worker from a hospital nearby to the Grand Hotel and called the post disappointing.

I will not dine or drink in a business that actively promotes non-vaccination  and I will encourage my family and friends to do the same, she wrote. However, the post did not contain any phrasing that directly promoted or discouraged individuals from getting vaccinated.

I hope that none of your unvaccinated patrons ever collapse, get in a fight or have a heart attack and need my services one day in the ED / ICU I work in  because like their choice to not get vaccinated, I would like to choose not to treat them also  but I have no choice, and I will be there to treat them alongside the other highly contagious, unvaccinated patrons of the emergency department.

In a follow-up post, the Grand Hotel Healesville said they didnt expect their post to go viral.

We just want to let you all know that we are not anti-vaxxers or non-covid believers. We believe in people making the right choice for them, and we will not discriminate those, for whatever reason, who choose not to get the jab.

The post was simply to say that when we finally are able to open up, we wont discriminate against anyone. If, however, the law changes and it becomes mandatory to enter a business with a passport! then we will have no choice and will abide by the law, the post read.

The posts come after the states leader, Premier Dan Andrews, said people who are not vaccinated might be locked out of society when businesses require COVID-19 vaccination as a condition of entry.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews announces a snap five-day lockdown for the state during a press conference in Melbourne, Australia, on July 15, 2021 . (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

This has become a common warning among state leaders, including in the neighbouring state of New South Wales, as the premiers follow Australias national plan to reopen the country once 70-80 percent of people are fully vaccinated.

The state of Victoria is currently enduring a severe COVID-19 Delta variant outbreak in the metropolitan Melbourne area, as well as the single regional town of Shepparton.

The Victorian government announced on Wednesday that it would ease restrictions in the regions, except for Shepparton, from Friday, allowing venues like the Grand Hotel to once again open their doors to the public, albeit with patron caps.

Under the new rules, venues can only allow 10 customers inside and 20 customers outside.

The owner of a pub in Bendigo, another regional town, described the newly eased rules as mindboggling, 3AW radio reported.

I just cannot believe that someone would come up with these numbers, he told 3AW.

I honestly thought, with 10 inside and 20 outside, theyd missed a zero on each of them.
Australias Constitution Clashes With Vaccine Mandates

Commentary

Although it is not feasible to predict what the High Court of Australiathe nations apex legal bodywould do if it were called upon to consider the constitutionality of vaccine mandates and emergency declaration orders, it is still possible to argue what it should do.

The Australian Constitution must be interpreted in a manner that promotes its purposes, values, and principles, while advancing the rule of law and the fundamental rights of the citizen.

The idea of mandatory vaccinationwhich is now steadily underway in Australia to combat the spread of COVID-19sits uncomfortably with this jurisprudence.

The Constitution expressly limits the exercise of government power to protect the rule of law. This limitation reduces the incidence of unrestrained power, which is closely connected to achieving human freedom and happiness.

Accordingly, the Constitution allocates legislative power over certain health services to the federal government (or Commonwealth), with these powers being exclusive or concurrent to those wielded by the Australian states.

A St John Ambulance staff member takes the temperature of a client arriving at a COVID-19 Vaccination Centre in the CBD in Sydney, Australia, on July 19, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams/Getty Images)

However, Section 51 (xxiiiA) of the Australian Constitution, which was added following a referendum in 1946, provides that the Commonwealth Parliament can make laws with respect to: The provision of  pharmaceutical, sickness and hospital benefits, medical and dental services (but not so as to authorize any form of civil conscription), benefits to students and family allowances.

It is the provision around any form of civil conscription that brings into question vaccine mandates.

The concept of civil conscription was first considered by the High Court in 1949 in the case British Medical Association v Commonwealth.

In the opinion of Chief Justice John Latham, civil conscription included a legal requirement to engage in specific conduct and the imposition of a duty to carry out particular work.

The validity of this argument was later confirmed by another two Chief Justice of the High Court, Robert French and William Gummow, in 2009, in Wong v Commonwealth and Selim v Professional Services Review Committee.

French and Gummow argued that civil conscription is a compulsion or coercion in the legal and practical sense, to carry out work or provide [medical] services.

A general view of the High Court of Australia in Canberra, Australia, on Nov. 5, 2020. (AAP Image/Lukas Coch)

When this understanding of the law is taken into consideration with Section 51 (xxiiiA) of the Constitution, which invalidates all legislation which compels medical practitioners  to provide any form of medical service, this provision could be construed as providing an implied right for a person to refuse the services of a doctor or health professional.

Further in the cases Wong v Commonwealth; and Selim v Professional Services Review Committee, Justice Michael Kirby found that such an implied right existed because the relationship between a medical practitioner and the patient was contractual in nature and was born from an intention of both parties to work together.

For Kirby, the test of whether civil conscription had been imposed was whether laws or regulations by their details and burdens intruded into the private consensual arrangements between the providers of medical and dental services and the individual recipients of such services.

Under this conclusionwhich is also based on existing implied constitutional limits in Section 51 (xxiiiA)even state Parliaments could not mandate the vaccination of their citizens without violating the Constitution.

Thus the jurisprudence of the High Court indicates that the prohibition of civil conscription must be construed widely to invalidate any law which, directly or indirectly, mandates compulsory vaccinations.

Considering all of this, it is plausible that if governments cannot constitutionally mandate compulsory vaccination, they certainly also cannot indirectly create a situation whereby people might be forced to take a vaccine.

A person walks past posters encouraging people to get vaccinated in Melbourne, Australia, on Aug. 31, 2021. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

It is a point that has already been addressed in the case of the British Medical Association v Commonwealth where the judge, Justice William Webb, ruled:

If Parliament cannot lawfully do this directly by legal means, it cannot lawfully do it indirectly by creating a situation, as distinct from merely taking advantage of one, in which the individual is left no real choice but compliance (emphasis added).

Furthermore, compulsory vaccination adversely affects the democratic principle of equality before the law.

According to the case of Leeth v Commonwealth, Justice William Deane and Justice John Toohey argued that the Preamble of the Constitution supported the view that equality was a principle embedded in the Constitution.

They argued that equality of all persons under the law and before the courts has been a fundamental and generally beneficial doctrine of the common law and a basic prescript of the administration of justice under our system of government.

The deliberate exclusion then of unvaccinated Australian citizens from certain freedoms discriminates against them based on their vaccine status.

Of course, relying on a vaccine status would create an apartheid-type situation, with benefits and burdens distributed across society on these grounds.

More importantly, making coercive statements to force people to get vaccinated would effectively amount to an indirect form of mandatory vaccination, the constitutionality of which is doubtful at best.

Gold Coast residents are seen with their backs turned to the Gold Coast City Council during a Silent Protest at Bundall on the Gold Coast, Australia, on Aug. 31, 2021. Pro-Choice protests have been carried out in dozens of locations in all states and territories, borne out of opposition towards mandatory vaccinations for authorised workers  including truck drivers  from 12 local government areas in Sydney. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)

Indeed, as Justice Webb reminded us, from a constitutional point of view, the jurisprudence of the High Court indicates that such a move would violate Section 51 of the Constitution.

Of course, governments should also be aware that legally they should avoid relying on what is termed parens patriae doctrine that grants the state the power to protect a person who is legally unable to act on their own behalf (and is normally reserved for minors).

Such a move would be a textbook example of the nanny state in full swing, removing any sense of individual responsibility and human dignity.

Further, there is a danger of excessive state control when citizens cannot make personal decisions about their own medical treatment.

Lord Justice Michael Mustill also noted this danger in the legal case Airdale National Health Service Trust v Bland:

Mustill ruled that: If the patient is capable of making a decision on whether to permit treatment and decides not to permit it, his choice must be obeyed, even if on any objective view it is contrary to his best interests. A doctor has no right to proceed in the face of objection, even if it is plain to all, including the patient, that adverse consequences and even death will or may ensue.

It is also worth approaching the matter from the perspective of international human-rights legislation as well.

Informed consent is the bedrock principle of ethical standards in medicine.

Informed consent can be defined as the voluntary agreement by an individual to a proposed medical or pharmaceutical treatment, given after sufficient and appropriate information about potential risks and benefits, including on possible adverse effects and how common they are, and what they should do about them.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison (centre), together with State Premiers Annastacia Palaszczuk (left), Daniel Andrews and Gladys Berejiklian, address the media in the Main Committee Room at Parliament House, in Canberra, Australia, on December 11, 2020. Sam Mooy/Getty Images)

According to Article 6 of the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights (2005): Any preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic medical intervention is only to be carried out with the prior, free and informed consent of the person concerned, based on adequate information.

In this context, Rocco Loiacono, senior lecturer at Curtin University, said:

For any government either by itself or via corporate proxy to attempt to mandate vaccines in circumstances where there has not been adequate testing and analysis of risks as well as benefits would constitute not only a violation of the principle of informed consent  but a violation of Australias obligations under international law with respect to medical experimentation.

So if the law explicitly prohibits any form of compulsion subjecting citizens to medical or pharmaceutical services, including mandatory vaccination, then any legislation that requires compulsory vaccination, either directly or indirectly, constitutes a form of civil conscription that is constitutionally invalid.

Similarly, indirectly forcing vaccination under threat of losing rights (including employment or freedoms) is not voluntary consent.

If governments cannot force something that is directly unconstitutional, such as forcing everyone to be vaccinated, they cannot lawfully do it indirectly by creating a situation  in which the individual is left no real choice but compliance.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

Augusto Zimmermann Dr. Augusto Zimmermann is professor and head of law at Sheridan Institute of Higher Education in Perth. He is also president of the Western Australian Legal Theory Association, editor-in-chief of the Western Australian Jurist law journal, and a former law reform commissioner in Western Australia.
U.S. President Joe Biden speaks on workers rights and labor unions in the East Room at the White House in Washington on Sept. 8, 2021. (Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Biden Forces Out Trump Appointees From Military Academy Advisory Boards

The Biden administration has forced out nearly a dozen Trump administration appointees from their positions on the advisory boards of U.S. military service academies, the White House confirmed on Wednesday.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at a press briefing that the administration was seeking to ensure that the advisory board members were qualified to serve and aligned with President Joe Bidens values.

Shortly afterwards, White House spokesman Chris Meagher said that all of the Trump appointees either resigned or have been terminated from their position. Eighteen members of military service advisory boards, including 11 officials appointed by former President Donald Trump, were asked to resign or be fired.

These included former Trump counselor Kellyanne Conway; the former presidents first White House press secretary Sean Spicer; Trumps second national security adviser Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster; and Russell T. Vought, a former White House Office of Management and Budget director under Trump.

The presidents objective  was to ensure you have nominees and people serving on these boards who are qualified to serve on them and who are aligned with our core values, Psaki said on Wednesday. I will let others evaluate whether they think Kellyanne Conway and Sean Spicer and others were qualified or not political to serve on these boards.

The duties of the boards are to inquire into the state of morale and discipline, the curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other matters relating to the academy which the Board decides to consider.

Members typically serve the entirety of their three-year terms.

Newsmax reporter Sean Spicer is seen at the White House in Washington on March 20, 2020. (Jim Watson/AFP via Getty Images)

Several of the officials posted screenshots on social media of the letters they said the White House sent them on Wednesday, asking that they either resign by 6 p.m. that day or be fired.

On behalf of President Biden, I am writing to request your resignation, White House Personnel Director Cathy Russell wrote to the appointees. Please submit your resignation to me by the close of business today. Should we not receive your resignation, your position with the Board will be terminated effective 6:00 pm tonight. Thank you.

Conway shared a letter addressed to Biden, saying that she wouldnt resign from her advisory position at the Air Force Academy.

President Biden, Im not resigning, but you should, she wrote on Twitter.

Three former directors of presidential personnel inform me that this request is a break from presidential norms, Conway wrote in her letter to the president. It certainly seems petty and political, if not personal.

Vought posted on Twitter a copy of the letter from Russell, saying he wouldnt resign as a member of the Board of Visitors to the U.S. Naval Academy.

No. Its a three year term, Vought wrote on Twitter.

Instead of focusing on the stranded Americans left in #Afghanistan, President Biden is trying to terminate the Trump appointees to the Naval Academy, West Point and Air Force Academy, Spicer said on Twitter.

Spicer said on his show on Newsmax that he and other appointees intend to file a lawsuit challenging the decision.

The Epoch Times has contacted the White House for additional comment.
BlackRock Chairman and CEO Laurence D. Fink attends a session at the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, on Jan. 23, 2020. (Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images)

BlackRock Addresses George Soross Criticism of Firms China Investments

The worlds largest asset manager, BlackRock, on Sept. 8 responded to sharp criticism by billionaire investor George Soros, who took issue with the firms recent investments in China.

In a rare Wall Street Journal editorial published on Sept. 6, Soros had warned that pouring money into China amounts to aiding a repressive regime engaged time of a life and death conflict with the democratic values upheld by the United States.

Pouring billions of dollars into China now is a tragic mistake. It is likely to lose money for BlackRocks clients and, more important, will damage the national security interests of the U.S. and other democracies, Soros wrote.

The BlackRock initiative imperils the national security interests of the U.S. and other democracies because the money invested in China will help prop up President Xis regime, which is repressive at home and aggressive abroad.

Billionaire investor George Soros delivers a speech on the sideline of the World Economic Forum annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland, on Jan. 24, 2019. (Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images)

BlackRock responded to the critique in a statement provided to CNBC. The asset management firm said it set up its first mutual fund in China after raising just over $1 billion from 111,000 investors.

The United States and China have a large and complex economic relationship, a BlackRock spokesperson said. Total trade in goods and services between the two countries exceeded $600 billion in 2020. Through our investment activity, US-based asset managers and other financial institutions contribute to the economic interconnectedness of the worlds two largest economies.

In addition to criticizing BlackRocks entry into Chinas mutual fund market, Soros faulted the asset manager for recommending that investors stop treating China as a developing nation and triple their exposure to investments in Chinese securities.

The Chinese market represents a significant opportunity to help meet the long-term goals of investors in China and internationally, BlackRock Chairman and CEO Larry Fink wrote in a letter to shareholders.

In the statement to CNBC, the BlackRock spokesperson said the company could help China address its retirement crisis by providing retirement services expertise.

Soros cast BlackRocks China ventures as a misguided move likely motivated by a fundamental misunderstanding of Chinas leader, Xi Jinping.

The firm seems to have taken the statements of Mr. Xis regime at face value. It has drawn a distinction between state-owned enterprises and privately-owned companies, but that is far from reality. The regime regards all Chinese companies as instruments of the one-party state, Soros wrote.

The billionaire investor also cautioned that while pouring money into China may stave off a looming real estate crisis, it wont address deeper signs of decline, including falling birth rates.
(L-R) Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau, Green Leader Annamie Paul, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, and Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet stand at their podiums before the federal election French-language leaders debate on Sept. 8, 2021, in Gatineau, Que. (The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick)

Book Burning Criticized by Party Leaders During French-Language Debate

Party leaders criticized book burning by a francophone school board in Ontario during their French-language debate on Sept. 8. The project was done in 30 schools in the name of reconciliation with indigenous peoples.

Its completely unacceptable to burn books, said Liberal Party Leader Justin Trudeau, when asked by debate moderator Patrice Roy if its his duty as a leader to denounce the book-burning when the news first broke on Sept. 7.

At the same time, were not going to tell aboriginal people how they should feel. We have to find a balance. Thats very, very important, he said.

Conservative Party Leader Erin OToole said the road to reconciliation doesnt need to involve tearing Canada down in a post on Twitter Sept. 7.

Burning of books is always unacceptable in a society like our society. We should be focusing on reconciliation without that kind of behaviour, he said during the leaders debate.

Green Party Leader Annamie Paul said she understands the frustrations of indigenous communities, but said that there are better ways to express them.

I hope we will be able to find more productive ways to do this, but we have to find solutions, she said.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh also criticized the actions taken by the school board, saying I dont think burning a book is a good idea, not at all. But he said Canada should engage in a serious conversation on how to teach the history of indigenous peoples.

He added what he learned during his childhood was not respectful to the dignity and the contributions, and the knowledge of Indigenous peoples.

I think we should look at history and know what were the things that people did in the past, he said.

Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet, who also disagreed with the book burning, said Canada has to confront what is found in our literature and our past.

What is said is not representative of who we are, so we need to prepare our children and inculcate some better values, he said.

Peoples Party of Canada Leader Maxime Bernier, who was not invited to the debate due to criteria established by the Leaders Debates Commission, condemned the book burning as a move by political leftists.

The far-left flippy wokes are destroying our freedoms, our culture, our civilization, he wrote in French on Twitter on Sept. 7.

Flame Purification

The book burning, which was carried out by Catholic school board Conseil scolaire catholique Providence in 2019, included a flame purification of books for educational purposes and using the ashes as fertilizer to plant a tree.

CBC Radio-Canada, which first reported the issue, said over 4,700 childrens books depicting indigenous people were removed from library shelves and destroyeddumped, burned, or buriedacross the 30 French-language schools overseen by the school board in southwestern Ontario.

An excerpt from a video intended for students, reported in Radio Canadas article, told them that we bury the ashes of racism, discrimination, and stereotypes in the hope that we will grow up in an inclusive country where all can live in prosperity and security.

Lyne Cossette, the boards spokesperson, told Radio Canada that the removal was done as a gesture of reconciliation and a gesture of openness with the indigenous communities.

A list obtained by Radio-Canada showing some of the books removed included classic titles such as Tintin in America, which the school board criticized as a negative portrayal of indigenous peoples and offending Aboriginal representation in the drawings. Some history books were also destroyed, including two biographies of French explorer Jacques Cartier.
Union flags fly near a bronze statue of British war-time Prime Minister Winston Churchill, by sculptor Ivor Roberts-Jones, in Parliament Square in London, on May 11, 2021. (Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images)

Boris Johnson Criticises Churchill Charity for Scrubbing Former PM From Website

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday criticised an educational charityoriginally founded in memory of Sir Winston Churchillafter it was accused of scrubbing the former wartime prime minister off its website.

Johnson, who wrote a book titled The Churchill Factor: How One Man Made History, said the charitys move airbrushed Churchills giant achievements and service to the UK. He said the move was completely absurd, misguided, and wrong.

The charity denied disowning Churchill and said Johnson was misled by reports.

It emerged on Wednesday that the charityoriginally named The Winston Churchill Memorial Trustrecently changed its name to The Churchill Fellowship, a name which Chief Executive Julia Weston says reflects who we are today.

In a statement published in June, the charity said it shares the opinion that many of Churchills views on race are unacceptable today.

Unnamed volunteers of the charity told the Sun that the new website also removed every picture of Churchill, along with a list of his achievements, his full biography, and a 1,400-word tribute to Churchill calling him a much-loved leader.

The man who saved this nation in our darkest hour finds himself cancelled, the tabloid quoted a volunteer.

One of the pictures was restored on Thursday with a new statement, which denied disowning Sir Winston, and said the original name needed simplifying because it was confusing to people and did not explain what we do.

Johnson urged the charity to rethink its move.

The Prime Minister believes that Winston Churchill was a hero who helped save this country and the whole of Europe from a fascist and a racist tyranny by leading the defeat of Nazism, his spokesman said.

It is completely absurd, misguided, and wrong to airbrush his giant achievements and service to this country, he said. The trust should think again.

In a statement emailed to The Epoch Times, the Churchill Fellowship said the prime minister has been misinformed on the facts of this story.

As we said in the statement on our website yesterday, we are proud of Sir Winstons contribution to saving the world from Nazism and of our connection to him. We have not attempted to disown him and are happy to republish his photo. The proof of all this is that Sir Winstons grandson, former MP Sir Nicholas Soames, has declared his full support for our work and our new name, the statement reads.

The charity on Thursday quoted Soames as saying he and his family fully and unreservedly, support the remarkable work of the Churchill Fellowship, which is the truly wonderful living memorial to Sir Winston Churchill.

The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust was one of several such memorials set up in 1965 after Churchills death.

Its an educational programme that awards fellowships to 150 UK citizens every year, offering them opportunities to learn worldwide and inspire change in the UK, the website states.

According to the website of the Australian Winston Churchill Trust, which is independent of its British counterpart, Churchill suggested something like the Rhodes Scholarships, but available to all people and on a much wider basis when Prince Phillip asked him what type of memorial he would like so that the world could remember him.

This report has been updated with the response from The Churchill Fellowship.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson attends a Cabinet meeting of senior government ministers at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) on Sept. 1, 2020 in London. (Toby Melville - WPA Pool / Getty Images)

British Universities Warned Not to Pursue Divisive Agenda

The UKs Education Secretary Gavin Williamson has urged British university bosses to help bring the country together rather than cancelling national heroes and debating about statues.

Speaking via video link at the Universities UK (UUK) annual conference on Thursday, Williamson warned university bosses against driving our nation apart with their divisive agenda.

Too often some universities seem more interested in pursuing more divisive agenda, involving cancelling national heroes, debating about statues, anonymous reporting schemes for so-called micro-aggressions, and politicising their curricula, he said.

These initiatives do nothing but undermine public confidence, widen divisions, and damage the sector, he told the conference.

The education secretary urged British universities to help bring our nation together, instead of driving our nation apart.

Rather than manufacturing offences from the past, let us instead come together to tackle injustice and promote equality for students and staff today.

Graduates queue on campus at the University of Bolton as they wait to receive their degree certificates in Bolton, northwest England, on July 9, 2021. (Oli Scarff/AFP via Getty Images)

In May, Williamson announced that the government was introducing a historic bill to protect free speech in universities and counter the chilling effect of censorship on campus.

According to the Center for the Study of Partisanship and Ideology (CSPI), a U.S. think tank, authoritarianism, political discrimination, and self-censorship are rife in British universities and have thrown academic freedom into a crisis of cancel culture.

The discrimination, mainly experienced by conservative academics, is mostly perpetrated by a subgroup of illiberal far-left activist staff and students, said CSPI in a report published in March.

Also addressing the UUK conference, the groups incoming president Professor Steve West stressed his commitment to free speech on campus.

The free exchange of ideas drives innovation, discovery, and social progress, provides students with a critical mindset, and ensures that universities continue to play a central role in national debates and wider societyeven when it is uncomfortable for some, he said.

In his speech, the education secretary also praised universities for their response to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic and urged bosses to resume face-to-face teaching as much as possible.

While the switch to online teaching was a necessary and vital way of keeping young people learning in as safe a way as possible, we have now moved on and students quite rightly expect that they can study in person alongside other students, he said. Imagine trying to make sense of the subtleties of interpreting Chekov for the stage or carrying out complex molecular biology techniques over Zoom.

Williamson said he would not expect to see universities using online learning as a cost-cutting measure.

Mary Clark and PA contributed to this report.
A woman works at a packing station at the 855,000-square-foot Amazon fulfillment center in Staten Island, one of the five boroughs of New York City, on Feb. 5, 2019. (Johannes Eisele/AFP via Getty Images)

California Senate Passes Bill Targeting Productivity Quotas for Warehouse Workers

The California Senate on Wednesday passed a landmark bill that would require warehouses to disclose productivity quotas and ban any such targets that endanger the health and safety of workers.

The first-of-its-kind legislation, known as AB 701 and introduced by Democrat Lorena Gonzalez, passed on a 26-11 vote. If signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom, warehouse distribution centers such as Amazon would be required to provide workers with quotas detailing the tasks that need to be completed within a certain timeframe.

It would place limits on production quotas that would prevent warehouse workers from using the bathroom when needed or from taking breaks they are entitled to. The bill also offers new protections for workers who raise concerns about unreasonable quotas.

Amazon employees have reportedly had to pee in bottles while at work due to such quotasallegations that the company deniesmeanwhile, former Amazon worker Yesenia Barrera claimed she was fired by an algorithm for going to the bathroom in 2019.

Proponents of the legislation say it could help address power imbalances between workers and employers and ultimately lead to similar regulation in other industries, while critics have called it too broad and misguided due to the focus on quotas.

AB 701 has passed the Senate! The bill is the first attempt to create transparency & protections against unsafe algorithmic-enforced quota systems used by corporations like @amazon to push warehouse workers bodies to the breaking point. #WorkShouldntHurt, California Assembly Member Gonzalez said on Twitter on Wednesday.

She previously said that more needs to be done to ensure that warehouse workers remain safe.

While the bill covers the entire warehouse sector, Gonzalez said Amazon had pioneered a combination of worker surveillance and algorithm-led management that allows employers to set unsafe productivity goals, and quickly dismiss workers who fall short.

The legislation will face a final concurrence vote in the Assembly before heading to the governors desk.

The Epoch Times has reached out to Newsoms office for comment on whether the governor intends to sign the bill into law should it reach his desk.

A worker assembles a box for delivery at the Amazon fulfillment center in Baltimore, Maryland, on April 30, 2019. (Clodagh Kilcoyne/Reuters)

Barrera, 22, who spent five months working at an Amazon warehouse in Southern California, said she was fired by the company after being warned once about spending too much time in the bathroom.

She claimed that she wasnt informed that she had lost her job, but found that her pass had been deactivated after turning up for work one day.

I was working as hard as I could, but a supervisor gave me one warning, Barrera said. One day I showed up, and I wasnt allowed inlike I was fired by an algorithm for going to the bathroom.

Amazon is now the second-largest employer in the United States, with over 950,000 workers nationwide. The company has drawn scrutiny for its labor conditions, practices, and its workers injury rates.

Veena Dubal, a labor law and technology expert, told NPR that the bill is the first step in changing working conditions in the warehouse.

Some business groups meanwhile have suggested that the true nature of the legislation is to boost labor organizing efforts.

If there is a business that is not living up to the workplace standards, they should be held accountablewe dont disagree with that, Rachel Michelin, head of the California Retailers Association told NPR. But do we need this broad, sweeping legislation  that impacts every aspect of the supply chain in California? I dont think so.

Amazon didnt immediately respond to a request for comment by The Epoch Times.

Reuters contributed to this report.
An illustration picture of COVID-19 vaccine vials with a flag of the United States. (Justin Tallis/AFP via Getty Images)

CDC Changes Definition of Vaccine So It Cant Be Interpreted to Mean That Vaccines Are 100% Effective

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently revised its definition for vaccine and vaccination on one of its web pages, saying that the new definition is more transparent and cant be misinterpreted.

While there have been slight changes in wording over time to the definition of vaccine on CDCs website, those havent impacted the overall definition, a CDC spokesperson told The Epoch Times via email.

The previous definition at Immunization Basics | CDC could be interpreted to mean that vaccines are 100% effective, which has never been the case for any vaccine, so the current definition is more transparent, and also describes the ways in which vaccines can be administered.

From 2015 to Aug. 31, 2021, a vaccine was defined as a product that stimulates a persons immune system to produce immunity to a specific disease, protecting the person from that disease and vaccination was the act of introducing a vaccine into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease.

Earlier versions of a vaccine definition also included immunity in its definition.

The new definition for the vaccine now reads, A preparation that is used to stimulate the bodys immune response against diseases, while vaccination is the act of introducing a vaccine into the body to produce protection from a specific disease.

While supporters of the CDCs revision say that its natural to revise the definition as the science evolves, opponents say the changes have nothing to do with the evolution of science. Rather, the CDC is making the revision in response to the current COVID-19 vaccines being less effective against the Delta variant.

Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and Epoch Times contributor Sharyl Attkisson said the new definition was made to meet the declining ability of some of todays vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine, adding that after the COVID-19 vaccines were introduced, and it was discovered they do not necessarily prevent disease or provide immunity, CDC altered the definition of vaccines again to say that they merely produce protection.

Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) took to Twitter about the CDCs definition change and compared it to George Orwells 1984, writing, Theyve been busy at the Ministry of Truth.

Check out @CDCgovs evolving definition of vaccination. Theyve been busy at the Ministry of Truth: pic.twitter.com/4k2xf8rvsL  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) September 8, 2021

The definition of herd immunity was also changed by the WHO in January to remove natural infection as a source.

The effectiveness of the vaccines to keep people out of the hospital had dropped to between 75 percent and 95 percent, according to CDC on Aug. 30. The health agency said the largest decline occurred in the most vulnerable group, people older than 75. However, the vaccines are still effective against severe illness.

Several studies have found that the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines is waning. An ongoing study in the United States found that the COVID-19 vaccines effectiveness dropped to 66 percent from 91 percent after the Delta variant became dominant in the country. A different study said so-called breakthrough infections increased to 25 percent of all infections in Los Angeles County between May 1 and July 25.

Israel, with the highest vaccination rates around the world, will administer a fourth dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to its citizens after offering a third booster shot to people 12 and older in August. The country with a population of more than 9 million and with more than 5 million fully vaccinated, is experiencing the fourth wave. More than 2.7 million Israelis have received the third dose as of Sept. 8.

The CDCs updated definition of vaccine and vaccination is the same as in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, which had revised the words earlier this year in February to include the messenger RNA vaccines.

In January, Merriam-Webster still defined a vaccine as a preparation of killed microorganisms, living attenuated organisms, or living fully virulent organisms that are administered to produce or artificially increase immunity to a particular disease.

The older definition of vaccine can still be found in other online dictionaries, including Oxford Languages.

Its also important to note that the modifications to the definition of vaccine dont change the fact that vaccines and the act of vaccination have prevented millions of illnesses and saved countless lives, the CDC spokesperson said.
Students wear masks as a teacher instructs them at Freedom Preparatory Academy in Provo, Utah, on Sept. 10, 2020. (George Frey/AFP via Getty Images)

CDC Tightened School Mask Guidance After Pressure From Teachers Union, Newly Obtained Emails Show

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued tighter mask guidance after a prominent teachers union pressured the agency to include more rigorous mask recommendations in school buildings, according to newly obtained emails by watchdog group Americans for Public Trust.

The emails, obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request by the watchdog and published by Fox News, show a string of communications between the National Education Association (NEA) and White House staffers.

The NEA is the largest teachers union in the United States and advocates for education professionals including public school teachers, support personnel, and faculty members at colleges and universities.

The email correspondence includes a draft statement from the NEA to the White House in which the teachers union criticizes the CDC over its masking guidance after it announced on May 13 that vaccinated people could stop wearing masks indoors and outside.

We appreciate the developing nature of the science and its implications for guidance, but releasing the guidance without accompanying school-related updates creates confusion and fuels the internal politicization of this basic health and safety issue, the draft statement reads.

CDC has consistently said, and studies support, that mitigation measures, including to protect the most vulnerable, remain necessary in schools and institutions of higher educationparticularly because no elementary or middle school students, and few high school students, have been vaccinated.

This will also make it hard for school boards and leaders of institutions of higher education to do the right thing by maintaining mitigation measures.  We need CDC clarification right away.

The union stated that it was prepared to issue the critical statement and called for the CDC to issue new guidance providing greater clarity over masks in schools and release more rigorous mask recommendations.

One day after the CDCs guidance went live, Erika Dinkel-Smith, the White House director of labor engagement, said she stopped the NEA from releasing its critical statement.

Students wear masks as they attend their first day in school after summer vacation at the St. Lawrence Catholic School north of Miami, on Aug. 18, 2021. (Chandan Khanna/AFP via Getty Images)

Following discussion and coordination with the White House, the NEA eventually released a much more relaxed statement, which reads, CDCs current recommendation that schools continue to implement existing school-related guidance, including the mandatory and correct use of wearing masks and continuing of social distancing, is an important and welcome clarification about the protections that need to be in place in our schools.

On May 15, the CDC also released updated masking guidelines, noting that schools should maintain both masking and physical distancing, as well as other mitigation measures, through the end of this school year, regardless of vaccination status.

The latest string of emails comes just months after the New York Post alleged that the CDC altered its guidance on when and how schools should reopen after being influenced by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the nations second-largest teachers union and one of the top donors to the Democratic Party.

AFT President Randi Weingarten later said the CDC had asked her organization to recommend language to be used in school opening guidelines.

The CDC in February and March basically asked all sorts of different organizations to sit down with them and give them comments about what they thought was important, Weingarten said in an interview with C-SPANs Washington Journal. They talked to parent organizations, they talked to the two [teachers] unions.

This is normal rule-making, she said. Frankly, this is the way every administration used to do, the problem with the last administration is that they didnt do it.

The Epoch Times has contacted The White House and the National Education Association for comment.
Chicago Woman Accused of Making False Bomb Threat After Missing Flight at Florida Airport, Officials Say

ChicagoA Chicago woman was arrested in a Florida airport after allegedly making a false bomb threat, officials said.

Marina Verbitsky, 46, of the Old Town neighborhood, was arrested Monday night at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, the Broward Sheriffs Office said in a news release.

Verbitsky told airport employees there was a bomb in her checked luggage that was on the plane after she was told she and her party were too late to board the plane, deputies said.

Verbitsky was taken into custody and the plane, which was taxiing the runway, was rerouted. Passengers were evacuated, and after the plane was inspected the threat was considered unfounded, deputies said.

Verbitsky was held at the Broward County Jail and is facing one count of false reporting concerning planting a bomb, explosive or weapon of mass destruction, the sheriffs office said.

2021 Chicago Tribune. Visit chicagotribune.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping (L) talks to former leader Jiang Zemin (R) during the closing of the 19th Communist Party Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on Oct. 24, 2017. (Wang Zhao/AFP via Getty Images)

China to Wipe out Black Sheep From the Party Amid Power Struggle: Experts

A stream of calls from Beijing to eliminate black sheep within Chinas sole governing political party cast light on its ongoing power struggle, experts say.

In the past week, Chinas top public security agency repeatedly declared to root out the remaining forces of several former high-ranking Chinese Communist Party (CCP) members; even though the so-called big tigers were jailed in past years amid a wide-reaching corruption crackdown under the command of Party leader Xi Jinping.

Comprehensive self-examination and self-correction should be in place to resolutely remove the black sheep, a Chinese official said. Listed names included then-top politicians from Xis rival faction that was led by former leader Jiang Zemin.

Zhou Yongkang, at the top of the list, is Chinas former security chief. Zhou was sentenced to life in prison for taking bribes in 2015, while also being charged with abuse of power and leaking state secrets. Zhou is also a known loyalist of Jiang.

Although observers said the anti-corruption campaign aimed to wipe out Xis political opponents or potential rivals that threaten his power, the latest claims indicated a less unified image of the CCP, experts said.

China affairs commentator Wang Youqun said Xis push within the power struggle spotlighted his strong sense of insecurity.

While still in charge, Zhou controlled police forces, spy agencies, judicial systems, and prosecution institutions across the country. After Xi became Party leader in 2012, Zhou was put under investigation and taken down in 2014.

U.S.-based China affairs commentator Li Linyi told The Epoch Times on Sept. 6 that the remnants of Zhous power have not been fully expelled in the past seven years since his downfall.

The level by level purge takes effort, he said. Not only those who are promoted [by Jiang], but also their subordinates need to be excluded.

Meanwhile, according to Li, documents issued by Zhou, as well as his previous photos taken with others, must also be purged, as internal regulations specify.

Zhou Yongkang, Chinas former security chief, attends the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference in Beijing on March 3, 2011. (Feng Li/Getty Images)

Yet there is no sign of the ongoing power struggle drawing to an end.

From February to July in 2021, Chinas Political and Legal Affairs Commission caught and punished nearly 180,000 judicial and law enforcement officers, the organ reported in late August. A second campaign launched in mid-August, also known as education rectification, will last for another three months.

Minister of Public Security Zhao Kezhi said the move was to further eliminate hidden threats among the Party, including cronies of fallen top officials such as Zhou, and any two-faced politicians.

Li said that the provincial public security department chiefs and political and legal committee secretaries are sitting on the fence, many of whom were promoted by Jiangs faction when they were in power.

On Sept. 1, Xi asked young communist regime cadres to be brave to fight the enemies and be loyal to the communist leadership at the Central Party School in Beijing. A day later, Chinas top anti-corruption organ said on its official website that interest groups seek to seize state power.

Analysts suggest that its likely that more big tigers will be removed from Chinas political and legal system to consolidate Xis power.
Chinas Belt and Road Faces Pandemic Economy

Chinese public debt is skyrocketing amid Beijing's quest for global domination

Analysis

Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is at the center of Xi Jinpings foreign and economic policy, as well as a significant component of the Beijing regimes push for global expansion.

So far, 139 countries have joined the various components of the initiative, including the Digital Silk Road, Health Silk Road, and Maritime Silk Road.

The BRI (also known as One Belt, One Road) consists of a series of linked infrastructure programs, including physical roads and ports, as well as telecommunications and banking. The basic model is that Chinese state-owned banks loan money to developing countries that use the funds to pay Chinese companies to build their infrastructure.

BRI membership comes with a vague promise that BRI projects will increase a countrys gross domestic product (GDP) by more than the amount needed to repay its debt. But so far, the vast majority of BRI projects have failed to make other countries rich. In fact, BRI debt is weighing down the economies of some of the worlds poorest nations. Twenty-three percent of BRI countries have said that BRI-related debt is increasing their foreign debt to unsustainable levels.

The BRI links 100 economies and six economic corridors:

New Eurasia Land Bridge: A rail link through Kazakstan, Russia, Belarus, and Poland.

China, Mongolia, Russia Economic Corridor: This includes rail links and the steppe road, connecting with the Eurasia Land Bridge.

China, Central Asia, West Asia Economic Corridor: This links Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran, and Turkey.

China, Indochina Peninsula Economic Corridor: This consists of Vietnam, Thailand, Lao Peoples Democratic Republic, Cambodia, Burma (also known as Myanmar), and Malaysia.

China, Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): This stretches from Chinas Xinjiang region to Gwadar Port in Pakistan.

China, Bangladesh, India, Myanmar Economic Corridor.

The Sihanoukville port in Cambodia, part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, is pictured in this undated photo. (Tang Chhin Sothy/AFP/Getty Images)

Before the pandemic, the BRI was already at a low point due to increased criticism of the unsustainability of past projects, coupled with decreased investment in new projects. Optimism was faltering, as it appeared that most BRI projects wouldnt generate enough of a GDP increase to cover debt service. The crown jewel of the BRI, CPEC, is a prime example. CPEC is already seven years in and less than one-third of the way complete. So far, CPEC hasnt come close to raising Pakistans GDP enough to pay the interest owed on loans from China.

Now, with COVID-19 affecting economies around the world, the potential profitability of even the best BRI projects seems less likely. Countries may not resume those projects or may wait until after a full economic recovery to restart, which could take years.

The central banks of two-thirds of the Belt and Road countries said that the pandemic has had a negative impact on the progress of BRI projects. One of the issues is that diverse countries took different lockdown measures of various durations and intensities. This has made planning impossible, with supply chain interruptions being frequent and unpredictable.

So far, China has invested more than $500 billion in BRI projects, lending to developing nations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. China and all of the other Group of 20 countries extended a debt moratorium to the poorest borrowers, totaling about $16.5 billion in deferred loan payments. During the pandemic, a lot of those countries enacted economic stimulus, which raised their national debt, as well as increased their risk of default. If those nations dont repay their BRI loans, Chinas non-performing loans, already at record levels, would increase dramatically.

The pandemic accelerated a trend of countries canceling BRI projects. In 2018, Malaysia canceled the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) and two gas pipelines, the Multi-Product Pipeline (MPP), and the Trans-Sabah Gas Pipeline (TSGP). Pakistan canceled a $2 billion BRI coal plant in 2019 and reduced loans for the building of a new railway by $2 billion. Burma cut its loan for the Chinese-backed Kyauk Pyu deepwater port by $6 billion. Sierra Leone canceled a $400 million airport.

Yet another threat facing the completion of BRI projects is that many of the contracts had force majeure clauses, which may protect contractors or borrowers. This increased repayment risk comes at a time when China is still recovering from its own lockdown measures, which shut down factories and ports. China is suffering from the same broken supply chains as the rest of the world, making manufacturing and recovery more difficult.

The Gwadar port, a major part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, in Pakistan on Oct. 4, 2017. (Amelie Herenstein/AFP/Getty Images)

China has already loaned $520 billion to more than 150 countries, which accounts for a quarter of the total bank lending to developing countries. Before the pandemic, 23 BRI countries were already in debt distress. Many of the BRI countries are expected to ask for loan forgiveness or restructuring as a result of the pandemic.

The Chinese regime estimates that 20 percent of BRI projects were severely impacted by COVID-19. But the pandemic lockdowns have only accelerated a trend in decreased overseas investment and a slowdown of the BRI, which had already been in play for a number of years. Chinas overseas investment year-on-year growth peaked at 49.3 percent in 2016 and has been in decline ever since. It shrunk by 23 percent in 2017, by another 13.6 percent in 2018, and remained relatively flat in 2019.

By 2020, Chinese overseas investments into BRI countries were 54 percent less than in 2019. Chinas non-performing loans already stand at $1.5 trillion, while total public debt stands at 270 percent of GDP, including foreign debt of $2.4 trillion.

The U.S.China trade war had already damaged the Chinese economy, and the lockdowns caused further retractions. In early 2020 alone, more than 240,000 businesses declared bankruptcy. Consequently, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is focusing so much on reviving Chinas domestic economy that it may not have the resources nor the motivation to return to the BRI.

The completion of the BRI seems much less likely than it did in 2013 when Xi Jinping, and much of the world, believed that a CCP-led world order was an inevitability. With the BRI unraveling, the CCPs plans of supplanting the United States as the worlds dominant power has been dealt a severe setback.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Chinese people demonstrate during the "great proletarian Cultural Revolution" in front of the French Embassy in Beijing on January 1967. Protesters show symbols of the Revolution such as the portrait of Mao Zedong, banners, and the book "Quotations from Chairman Mao Tse-tung." Since the Cultural Revolution was launched in May 1966 at Beijing University, Mao's aim was to recapture power after the failure of the "Great Leap Forward." (Jean Vincent/AFP via Getty Images)

Chinas Cultural Revolution 2.0: Should Americans Be Concerned?

Commentary

The Chinese regime is busy turning its three big mountainshealth care, education, and propertyinto manageable molehills. The question, though, is why?

Its all about control. In China, an uncompromising hierarchy exists. At the top sit the elites in Beijing. For those who forget their place in society, theyre quickly reminded. If in doubt, just ask Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba who suspiciously isolated himself and decided to take up painting after criticizing those in power.

Will the resizing of the so-called mountains have a positive or negative impact on China? In truth, we wont know the answer to that for quite some time. Nevertheless, the Chinese regimes intent is clear. Lets assume that the current onslaught is a success and China becomes even stronger, then what would this mean for the United States, Chinas biggest rival?

According to the Pew Research Center, 91 percent of Americans view the Chinese regime as a direct threat to society. In a Gallup poll, 45 percent of Americans see China as the United States greatest enemy. Its important to note that both of these polls were conducted before a Chinese health official announced at a press conference in July that Beijing refuses to cooperate with further inquiries into the origins of COVID-19.

For those who dont view Beijing as a threat to Americans, please consider the following: The Chinese regime has stolen the personal data of 80 percent of American adults; to call China a threat is an understatement of epic proportions.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping (onscreen) delivers a speech to mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on July 1, 2021. (Wang Zhao/AFP via Getty Images)

Lets be clear, the Chinese Communist Party is not Americas friend. Friends dont steal from each other. No, the Chinese regime is a direct competitor. To compete with the enemy, the United States must first get its own house in order.

Profound Transformation

According to Hong Kong-based writer Timothy McLaughlin, the U.S. retreat from Afghanistan has provided those in Beijing with an opportune moment to gloat. The Chinese regime is feeling emboldened. In a rather extreme commentary piece for Peoples Daily Online, Beijings mouthpiece, the author calls for a profound transformation.

With this Cultural Revolution 2.0, the United States is very much in the Chinese regimes crosshairs. On this path of common prosperity, amid a series of recent crackdowns, China is undergoing major changes. This profound transformation, according to the author, is in fact a revolution. Fifty-five years ago, China experienced its first Cultural Revolution. Although the effects were indeed profound, not to mention traumatizing, China carried absolutely no international clout. The changes were very much domestic in nature.

With the latest revolution, however, the optics couldnt be any more different. What happens in China no longer stays in China. A revolution at home will very much become a revolution abroad. The ripple effects will be felt around the world.

Common Prosperity Versus Common Sense

As Xi Jinping promotes the idea of common prosperity, perhaps its time the United States promoted the idea of common sense. The author Anne Applebaum warns that today in America, it is possible to meet people who have lost everythingjobs, money, friends, colleaguesafter violating no laws, and sometimes no workplace rules either. She is, of course, talking about cancel culture.

Those who find themselves canceled, according to Applebaum, have broken (or are accused of having broken) social codes having to do with race, sex, personal behavior, or even acceptable humor, which may not have existed five years ago or maybe five months ago. Although some have made egregious errors of judgment, others have done absolutely nothing at all. In this age of absolutism, nuance has been cast aside.

Where is this type of puritanism created? In schools across the country. Recently, a pro-Antifa teacher in California bragged about his desire to turn his students into revolutionaries. Gabriel Gipe, the teacher in question, admitted that he offers extra credit to students willing to attend protests organized by groups like the Party for Socialism and Liberation. The form of puritanism that Applebaum discusses is being nurtured by people like Gipe, and hes not alone. On June 30, as Christopher F. Rufo reported, the National Education Association, the largest teachers union in the country, approved a plan to teach critical race theory (CRT) in every single state. Through the promotion of such questionable content, what sort of society is being created? The type that caters to the very people Applebaum discusses in her piece.

Right now, Americans are highly suspicious of each other. With the current culture wars intensifying in nature, and the idea of mob justice becoming more mainstream, will things get better or worse? Ill let you decide. The United States, the only country capable of confronting China, is being torn from within.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Chinese leader Xi Jinping (L) and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visit the cargo terminal of Chinese company Cosco in the Port of Piraeus, Greece, on Nov. 11, 2019. (Orestis Panagiotou/AFP via Getty Images)

China Invests in Strategic Ports Worldwide in Bid to Expand Global Influence

China has invested in, built, or rented ports in over 60 countries over the past decade, some of which are key locations for maritime trade and military presence. These ports are not only in developing countries but also in the developed world.

In June, Chinas largest state-owned shipping and logistics services supplier, China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO), announced that it plans to acquire a stake in the Port of Hamburg. The Hamburg port is the largest seaport in Germany, the third-busiest port in Europe, and the 15th-largest in the world.

Before the Port of Hamburg deal, COSCO already had control in Greeces Port of Piraeus, Italys Port of Trieste, Spains Port of Valencia, Belgiums Port of Antwerp, and many more across Asia, Africa, and South America.

Today, China owns 96 ports around the world  giving Beijing strategic dominance without having to deploy a single soldier, ship, or weapon, wrote former British Defence and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox and former U.S. National Security Adviser Robert McFarlane in their opinion piece for The Mail on Sunday on Aug. 7.

Chinese leader Xi Jinping has explicitly expressed his intention for China to dominate global shipping.

An economic power must be a maritime power and be powerful in shipping, Chinese state-run Xinhua quoted Xi saying on July 11, 2020. [Since November 2012], Xi Jinping has arranged the layout of ports in a broader space  He has visited the ports inside and outside of China, the report added.

The report said that by controlling and operating key ports around the world, China can quickly expand its influence. It added that Xi would keep ordering the regime and its enterprises to construct and operate ports well in both China and overseas.

Chinas Global Port Layout

Workers attend container loading on a ship at the new container terminal in the port of Piraeus, Greece on Oct. 18, 2018. (LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP via Getty Images)

The Chinese regime continues to expand its control on global ports through its state-run port operators, shipping companies, and investors. COSCO already claims to be the largest port operator in the world.

China is already a veritable shipping country, Chinas state-run mouthpiece Xinhua reported on July 11, 2020. It said that China produces more vessels than any other country every year, ships 26 percent of global goods which is the most for any country in the world, and operates 15 of the worlds top 20 cargo throughput ports, while seven of the worlds top ten container ports are in China.

We must have the target and bravery to be the number one of the world, the report quoted of Xis orders given for the regime in Shanghai in November 2018.

As a giant state-run company, COSCO plays one of the most important roles in the Chinese Communist Partys global port strategy.

According to COSCOs website, the state-owned company has invested in 58 ports across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, South America, and the Mediterranean. Of these, 51 ports are for containers and have an annual cargo handling capacity of approximately 129.4 million TEU.

The Port of Piraeus in Greece is a key port that COSCO operates. It is the largest port in Greece and one of the largest in Europe. Located in the Saronic Gulf on the western coasts of the Aegean Sea, it connects the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, and is one of the transfer stops for the Suez Canal.

China Merchants Group, a key China state-run enterprise that is headquartered in Hong Kong, is another key investor allowing the Chinese regime to expand its control of ports around the world.

A Pakistani naval personnel stands guard near a ship carrying containers at Gwadar Port, Pakistan, on Oct. 4, 2017. (Amelie Herenstein/AFP via Getty Images)

China Merchants Group is the worlds leading port investors, developers, and operators.  We successfully deployed the ports in Southeast Asia, Africa, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America, Oceania, and other regions, the group says of its operations on its website.

In 2017, the group took over the operation of Hambanthota International Port, Sri Lankas second largest port located between the Malacca Straits and the Suez Canal, linking Asia and Europe.

In 2018, the group also directed the most tonnage in the container terminal of a main port in South America, Port of Paranagua, which is the second largest port of Brazil.

We have controlled 68 ports in 27 countries [by the end of 2020], the group said.

The Chinese regime is trying to control more ports, both harbor and dry ports, around the world, and is modernizing and enforcing its navy. This is part of Xi Jinpings China Dream, reported Chinese state-run CCTV on July 11.
Chinese National Sentenced for Smuggling US Marine Tech to China

A Chinese national and businessman has been handed a two-year prison sentence and a $20,000 fine after admitting to illegally exporting more than $100,000 in U.S. marine technology to a Chinese military research institute that has close ties with the Chinese Communist Partys (CCP) military.

Shuren Qin, a 45-year-old marine biologist and founder of LinkOcean Technologies, a company that sells oceanographic instruments, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Denise Casper in Boston on Sept. 8. In April, he pleaded guilty to 10 counts, including one count of conspiracy to unlawfully export U.S. anti-submarine warfare devices to Chinas Northwestern Polytechnical University (NWPU).

The Chinese military research institute, located in the northwestern Chinese city of Xian, works closely with the Peoples Liberation Army on the advancement of its military capabilities, the U.S. Justice Department said in a statement.

The U.S. Department of Commerce lists NWPU as an entity that poses national security concerns for its involvement in the development of unmanned aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, and missile proliferation projects.

Qin, who resides in Wellesley, Massachusetts, was arrested in June 2018 and pleaded guilty on April 28 to one count of unlawful exporting, as well as one count of visa fraud; two counts of making false statements to law enforcement agents regarding his customers and the types of parts he caused to be exported from the United States to the Peoples Republic of China (PRC); four counts of money laundering; and two counts of smuggling hydrophones from the U.S. to the PRC.

From 2015 to 2016, prosecutors said, Qin illegally exported to China at least 60 hydrophones, which are used to monitor sound underwater.

Due to national security risks, the U.S. Commerce Department requires that a company obtain an export license in order to ship U.S. goods to foreign entities posing a national security concern. Prosecutors said that Qin exported the devices to China, and in doing so, purposely concealed from his U.S. supplier that the hydrophones were going to NWPU.

Qins attorneys argued that he wasnt aware of NWPUs intentions with the devices, which also include civilian and scientific uses alongside military ones.

These are not top-secret technologies, Qins lawyer Sara Silva said.

Prosecutors initially also accused Qin of exporting unmanned surface vehicles and robotic boats, alleging that he had supplied $8 million in goods to Chinese government-controlled entities from 2015 to 2018. They had also sought a sentence of 7 1/2 years in prison.

Qin has admitted only to the charges concerning the 60 hydrophones, valued at $100,000. His guilty plea was conditional on allowing him to appeal the judges ruling to not suppress evidence against him.

Reuters contributed to this report.
Containers are seen at the Yangshan Deep-Water Port in Shanghai, China, on Oct. 19, 2020. (Aly Song/Reuters)

Chinese Seafarers Stuck at Sea Amid Pandemic Regulations

Many Chinese ship crews are struck at sea due to Beijings management of the pandemic. Some of the sailors revealed their plight to the Chinese language Epoch Times.

The second officer of a Chinese ship who sails international routes, surnamed Shi, told the publication on Sept. 1 that there are many ships queuing up outside major Chinese ports. He said returning crews need to take a test for COVID-19 before they are allowed to dock and disembark. He added that many ships dont even make it to the ports.

Due to the pandemic, the ports dont allow the change of crew on ships. Many people have worked for 12 to 13 months, or even 16 to 18 months on the same ship, and they cant get off, Shi said.

According to regulations, seafarers are not permitted to work over 12 months consecutively. However, many Chinese crew members are stuck on ships at sea even after their contracts expired, according to Shi and others. They explained the reasons for that include the inability of shipping companies to find crew members to replace them; ports forbidding ships to dock for a crew change; or crew members on the ships being infected with the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as the novel coronavirus.

At present, the [Chinese Communist] government has no idea of how to prevent and control the disease on container ships and seafarers, Shi said. He added that many of the ports prevent ships from entering for fear of the Chinese authorities holding them accountable.

There is no clear procedure.

Trucks transport shipping containers at a dockyard in Qingdao in eastern China, on Sept. 25, 2020. (Chinatopix Via AP)

In July, there was an outbreak on the Panamanian coal cargo ship Hongjin when it traveled near Zhoushan city, Zhejiang Province. Of the 20 Chinese crew members, 16 of them on board tested positive for the CCP virus.

The crew called for help from authorities in Zhejiang and Jiangsu, but was rejected, forcing the ship to float in international waters for a week without help. It was only after the crews dire situation garnered public attention on social media that the Zhoushan authorities agreed to let the ship dock and disembark.

A seafarer from Shandong Province surnamed Hong sails the European and American routes. He told the Chinese language Epoch Times that he embarked on the ship in Peru on Nov. 27, 2019, and disembarked on Oct. 28, 2020.

Hongs ship docked in Brazil when President Jair Bolsonaro was infected with the CCP virus in July 2020. When they returned to China, he said they were not allowed to go ashore. We had to stay on the ship for a few months before I finally disembarked.

He explained that if there is a COVID-19 outbreak where a ship has docked or sailed passed, Chinese officials do not allow crews to change.

Hong said many crew members are banned from disembarking at Chinese ports. Were not even allowed to report on these things, even on social media, he said.

If you report it, it gets deleted.

According to Shi, many stranded crew members are now agitated. They are desperate to disembark, and some held work strikes and hunger strikes on the ship. Many people are acting out on the ship, threatening the captain, or having nervous breakdowns, he said.

They are going crazy.

Shi said that some sailors who caught the CCP virus had to seek treatment outside of China.

Gu Xiaohua and Gu Qinger contributed to the report.
Police tape is seen in this stock photo. (Carl Ballou/Shutterstock)

Colombia Campaign Violence Has Killed 6, Toll Likely to Rise: NGO

BOGOTAViolence associated with campaigning for Colombias 2022 presidential and legislative elections occurred every four days over the past five months, an observation group reported on Wednesday, warning that threats and killings may increase as voting draws closer.

Between March 13 and Aug. 23 there were 29 violent incidents, which claimed six lives, the Peace and Reconciliation Foundation said in a report.

Most victims were elected public officials like mayors and city councillors from left-leaning parties like the Green Alliance and Human Colombia, the group said.

This situation will likely worsen nationally given the strengthening of alternative political parties compared to traditional political classes, the report said.

As time passes and the registration of candidates moves ahead, we will see an increasing trend in acts of violence, Esteban Salazar, one of the authors of the report, said at a virtual press conference.

Legislative elections will take place in March 2022, while a first-round of presidential voting will be held in May.

Though a 2016 peace accord between the government and the now-demobilized Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) rebels broadly reduced violence, some areas still face mass displacements, murders, and other violence because of fighting between former FARC who reject the deal, crime gangs, and remaining rebel group the ELN.

Some 72 percent of perpetrators remain unidentified, the report said, while just over 27 percent of attacks were blamed on crime gangs.

Someone is paying these assassins to kill these people, or to threaten them, said the foundations sub-director Ariel Avila, adding victims often had reported corruption, illegal mining or the planting of coca, the base ingredient in cocaine.

Where there are high levels of electoral competition, it would seem the use of violence is one more mechanism of political competition, Avila said.

Violence and threats during campaigning for local and regional elections in 2019 affected 230 people, the study said, in incidents in 28 of Colombias 32 provinces.

By Luis Jaime Acosta
Conrad Black: Can the US Recover from Its Botched Afghanistan Withdrawal?

As doubts about Americas leadership grow among its allies, can the United States recover from its botched withdrawal from Afghanistan?

We sit down with Conrad Black, once one of the worlds leading newspaper publishers and author of several presidential biographies.

What can the United States learn from its eminent statesmen of yesteryear? And should the United States be concerned about a new ChinaTaliban alliance?

Jan Jekielek: Conrad Black, such a pleasure to have you back on American Thought Leaders.

Conrad Black: Very glad to be with you.

Mr. Jekielek: Theres been a lot of criticism of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Youre looking at all this through a very interesting vantage point, and its partially like mine, from the perspective of being Canadian and also from the perspective of the UK and other allies. How do does this look and what are the impacts of this on U.S. alliances around the world?

Lord Black: Well it, it looks like a botched job. I think the view both in Britain and in Canada, and in many other places, is not that this is a demonstration that the United States is finished as a serious power or anything like that. Claims like that are exaggerated. But [the view is] that it was an inexplicably poorly conceived operation.

The chief grievances areleaving aside the basic argument of whether it was better to keep a small NATO force there and maintain some sort of a stasis with the Taliban who were active in the countryside, but didnt control any of the cities. This presence effectively prevented a renewal of comprehensive terrorist activity, which is what attracted the NATO alliance to Afghanistan in the first place 20 years ago.

Leaving that out of this, if you accept that the idea was to leave, the traditional method of doing it is you take all the most vulnerable people out first. The military covers the retirement of all those who are going to have the most difficulty, and then the military retires in the sequence that they organized themselves so that everyones retreat is covered, is conducted in an orderly manner, and then the more mobile forces leave right at the end.

Although there was a land border and it was an easier thing to do for the Russians when they retired under quite different circumstances, after an unsuccessful occupation of 10 years, they did leave in that way. They took their collaborators out first, and then they withdrew the armed forces from the South towards the North and then across into what was then the USSR, Uzbekistan.

That is the way you do things, and the Americans didnt do that. Secondly they did not consult adequately at all with the allies, and third, despite the claims that are being uttered in official circles in Washington now, they did not advise people to leave. They claim now they gave 12 different advisories to Americans and friends of American Afghanistan to leave, but not with enough emphasis that anyone, or very few people anyway, paid much attention to it or took it seriously.

And at the same time, they did absolutely nothing to expedite the departure of Afghan allies of the United States. They subjected them to a terribly irritating, bureaucratic application process that was not expedited or accelerated in any way. Then when they suddenly started to leave, these people were effectively just abandoned. And it appears that of the more than 100,000 apparent Afghans who were evacuated in the last days, very few of them had rendered any assistance to the United States, and most of those who had, translators and so on, were left behind. So people feel, I think its fair to say everywhere, that it was a botched operation.

That doesnt mean the United States is no longer a great power. Of course it is a great power and no less a great power now than it was a year ago. But this is not good for a countrys reputation and credibility. They set out to do something for which is a general background for how you do it. And to completely botch it and then lie about it and have the different high officials blaming each other and contradicting the president and so on, its a spectacle of absurdity and tragedy.

Thats very unbecoming, but you know, the world will get over it, and presumably whether it acknowledges that or not, the United States will learn some lessons on how to go forward.

I mean, I wouldnt say it is worse than the Bay of Pigs 60 years ago. But it hasnt been handled as well as that was, when President Kennedy said, It was a mistake. It was my mistake, and well learn the lessons of it, and it will never happen again. And people accept that. Of course he performed very well in the Cuban Missile Crisis a year later, a year and a half later.

The United States hadnt been defeated in Cuba, but just sponsored a force that was completely inadequate to the task of overthrowing the Castro regime. This is more serious, but it can be handled in a similar way, but so far Biden is not handling it with anything like the forthrightness and credibility that President Kennedy handled that error at the Bay of Pigs.

Mr. Jekielek: Thats really interesting because as you mentioned, the Bay of Pigs was followed not too long after by the Cuban Missile Crisis. Does this sort of situation make the dictators more eager or more interested or feeling like they can aggress more?

Lord Black: Well I think there is the fear, and its been quite widely expressed in the last couple of weeks, that this will embolden the Taliban and their alliesif its correct to call them allies, to some extent theyre rivals, I supposethe terrorist groups, ISIS and Al Qaeda and so on.

Im not the best qualified person to judge how people like that think, but there cant be any doubt that [this will have an effect,] the spectacle of the United States making such a shambles of this in Afghanistan, the original terrorism-exporting country, though largely because of the negligence or inability of the regime in Kabul to exercise sovereignty over its whole territory.

To see them back, fully able to revert to that kind of thing if they choose to do it, and no doubt they would be supplied well by countries desiring a resumption of terrorism. I think its quite likely that they will now become more aggressive than they have been. A greater potential to train terrorists and insert them into the world than they had when Afghanistan from a terrorist standpoint had been substantially neutralized, which it has been for the last 20 years.

Mr. Jekielek: And so what about NATO? You mentioned NATO earlier. What is the impact on this alliance of how this has all transpired?

Lord Black: Well, here I think we do have some problems. The majority of NATOand in particular, those countries that are in NATO that are relatively recently emancipated from the yoke of being in the Soviet Union or being effectively dominated by the Soviet Unionthe memory is so fresh in their minds of what that relationship with the Russians was like that whatever their fears, they will carry on as if they had no fears because they placed all their bets on the military guarantee of the NATO alliance, which is effectively of the United States.

But in other parts of NATO, that alliance has become quite shaggy anyway. I mean, very few of the member countries have been coming anything close to their 2 percent of GDP defense commitment, and a number of countries have been highly critical of American leadership.

And were having an election in the next month, I believe, in Germany. And if the coalition of the SPD and the Greens wins, I think therell be some question about whether Germany is really any more a member of the Western alliance.

Under Chancellor Merkel, it had effectively made itself an energy satellite of Russia, and it has shut down its own nuclear program and developed a dependence on Russian natural gas. Germany of course, a famous state in military terms is now almost a disarmed state. And, I think it has to be said that therell be some question about what Germany is trying to do.

For the French and the British, despite the considerable attention given in the British parliament two weeks ago to the idea of seeking an alliance not actually led by the Americans, there is no practical alternative to an American-led Western alliance. The French and the British, with whatever misgivings, and the other countries in NATO will attempt to encourage the Americans to be a little more coherent and consistent and try to be supportive and try to reinforce the alliance as best they can.

But, enlarged and accelerated by this fiasco in Afghanistan, there is a question about whither NATO? Where is going and how is it trying to get there? It needs leadership, and I regret to say, I dont think were going to get much leadership out of the Americans in the next three years.

Mr. Jekielek: In this situation, theres also been all sorts of voices or activity that Ive been noticing basically from Asia. You have the Chinese regime basically saying to Hong Kong and Taiwan, from an information perspective, it appears to be very, very serious.

Lord Black: In the first place, no sane person would make any comparison between Afghanistan and Taiwan. I mean, Afghanistan is a landlocked country. Taiwan is an island. Afghanistans one of the most primitive countries in the world. Taiwan, one of the most advanced in the world. And where the Afghan army was well-equipped, it disintegrated under internal pressure.

The armed forces of Taiwan are extremely well equipped and extremely well-trained and very numerous, and they would defend their island with great courage and ingenuity Im sure. And we can also count on the unquantifiable and invisible ally of the obnoxious diplomatic personality, the Peoples Republic of China, that they are very overbearing with their neighbors.

They are detested by the Vietnamese, ostensibly their glorious allies in the Vietnam War. They are detested by the South Koreans. They are not liked at all by the Japanese, where theres an ancient rivalry, the two leading parties of the Far East. They are not liked at all by the Indians, in whose territory theyve made incursions, and they have to some extent actually invaded India.

These countries will not be easily intimidated, and they will not hastily cast off possibilities provided by an association with the United States. The United States, let us face the fact, is responsible for Taiwan becoming a serious country. And the United States rescued South Koreawith allies, but the allies playing a secondary role. The United States designed the present government of Japan and put Japan back on its feet.

Now, you never expect gratitude from other countries for things you do, but those countries and others are aware that the United States is capable of [being], and most of the time is, a very effective, powerful ally. Theyre not going to show them the door anytime soon.

The Chinese have shownand we must remember, China historically never took any interest in the world beyond its borders. This is a first for them. Thereve been periods in the past, several, when China was a mighty power, but even at those times, it only demanded exaggerated respect from its immediate neighbors, and wasnt much interested in the world.

That has changed, but they havent picked up the lessons that quickly. And then they were so overbearing, even the Colonels in Myanmar threw them out. They couldnt stand it anymore.

They are technically on the edge of a state of skirmishing, i.e. the lowest form of war, but skirmishing all the same, with India and with Vietnam. And the Chinese have not demonstrated any great aptitude for using diplomacy to make themselves more popular or sought after in the world. At that theyre amateurs; theyre just starting out.

China itself of course must never be underestimated. This has been a bad embarrassment for the United States, but it does not destroy the fact that in three lifetimes, just three lifetimes, since the Battle of Yorktown, the United States has in that time for the last 80 years or so, been the preeminent country in the world.

It was an important player in the allied victory in World War I. It was a decisive and indispensable player in the allied victory in World War II, and it was the undisputed overwhelming leader in the Western victory in the Cold War, and it is the greatest power in the world. All countries make mistakes. This was a bad one, but it can be recovered from.

Mr. Jekielek: I cant help but think as were talking about this, I dont usually go here, but theres the Thucydides trap. Theres been this idea in circles of foreign policy and history that the U.S. is the declining power, and China is the rising power. Does this provide the propaganda coup to truly demonstrate that?

Lord Black: Well no, it provides a propaganda coup. It is certainly a propaganda coup that will reinforce the Chinese side of the argument you just set out. But it need not be true, and I personally dont think it is true. I dont think the United States is in decline.

I think it is in an unusually confused internal condition, assimilating the decisive positive turning point in the racial relations problem that has always been there. Since shortly after the arrival of the Europeans, it was a slave holding country for 250 years, what Mr. Lincoln called, the bondsmans 250 years of unrequited toil. And there was a terrible war, and then there was a hundred years of segregation.

And I think we are now at the point where radical African American groups are completely overplaying their hand, and yet they have attracted a certain amount of adherence from non-black groups, saying that the United States had this original sin of slavery and hasnt adequately atoned for it, but thats not where the majority is.

And because of the unusual personality of Donald Trump, and the peculiar nature of the Biden phenomenon, the Democrats are now an informal and almost incoherent coalition of different elements.

[They include] outright socialists, this somewhat violent and in any case, very refractory group, still purporting to relive and assert vengeance for the moral shame of slavery and its aftermath. And [they include] the traditional Democratic party, which is essentially a reasonable, more rather moderate group contesting with the Republicans to run the government.

Its all at the same time, but itll all disentangle quite quickly. And the United States will revert to being a rationally governed, reasonably competently governed, great power exercising and defending its national interests with its allies.

But I think this rather painful period of working out the internal complexities of the United States and getting the right personnel in place opposite the world, and serving legitimately, neither belligerently nor with too much laxity, the legitimate interests of the United States. I think weve got this presidential term and congressional term to go through to get there, but theyll get there.

I think the United States is more or less at its plateau. I dont think it will get markedly more important, vis-a-vis all the rest of the world than it is now, but there is no real evidence its in decline.

Americans are, almost all of them as you know, patriotic people; they love their country. And it is fundamentally an extremely powerful country. I mean, China is a poor country. Theres a lot of people that have very little resources, and it has no institutions that enjoy or deserve the slightest respect, except up to a point the army, the military.

You cant believe a word the Chinese government says or a statistic they publish. Its a substantially more corrupt country than the United States, which by the standards of Britain or Canada or Sweden or Germany is really quite a corrupt country.

The United States is all right; its just having a bad period, but a brief one. It could go into an inexorable Spenglerian decline, it could, but theres no need to believe that it will. It is certainly not inevitable, and I do not think it will.

I think therell be a reaction against whats happening now and a powerful sentiment over the next few years to say in the United States, Lets stop this nonsense, lets stop horrible fiascos like Afghanistan from having that happening again. Lets define our national interests in the world, provide the resources to protect it in consultation with serious allies, work it all out, and continue the fundamentally highly successful history of the United States. Its an interruption like the Civil War but not as severe, and unfortunately not one in which the country is guided by so outstanding and brilliant a leader as Abraham Lincoln.

Mr. Jekielek: Lets talk about the 20 years of U.S. presence in Afghanistan. What was achieved with that actually, in your mind?

Lord Black: Well, I think the initial goal of ending the conditions in which Afghanistan was a breeding ground for terrorists, that was achieved. It was achieved very quickly and very effectively by President George W. Bush with the NATO allies. And the North Atlantic Council was unanimous in invoking for the first time the most successful alliance in the history of the world.

One of the member states had been attacked; the United States had been attacked, and the alliance was unanimous in supporting the United States. President Bush, the then Secretary of State James Baker, and the Secretary of Defense, Dick Cheney, all of them, Colin Powell, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, they handled it very well, and that first objective was achieved. It was quickly achieved.

Then we got into this Bush theory of turning non-democratic countries into democracy, managing them into democracy on the theory that democracies never engaged in aggressive war. The second part of the theory is substantially truethey dont. Its not to say they never have: if Britain and France were democracies in the 19th century, which to a substantial degree they were, they did get a bit aggressive at times.

But in modern terms, that was a correct assumption. Democracies dont engage in aggressive war unless theyre provoked. But this idea that we had any ability or license to try and transform undemocratic societies into democracies was an insane proposition.

You could do it where you were rebuilding a fundamentally sophisticated country like Germany and Japan after the war. They didnt have a great history of democracy, either of them, but they were sophisticated countries and they could develop very quickly and accept institutions if they werent seen as just institutions of defeat, the way the Weimar Republic was after World War I.

That you can do. You can bring countries along politically if their economies come along at the same time, as in South Korea. At the end of the Korean War, South Korea had a lower standard of living than Egypt. But gradually, with an American presence there, the institutions took form, the country prospered. Its now a rich, prosperous country and a well-functioning democracy.

Spains the same. You can do it with countries that have the instances of an advanced society that can support democracy and be well governed by it.

But in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, it cant be done unless theyre absolutely on life support. That gets terribly expensive and countries who are providing the support get tired of it. And thats what happened. But the way to cut off the life support is not what the Americans did to the Afghans.

Apart from everything else, three-quarters of the forces in Afghanistan were NATO forces; they werent Americans. So the Americans pulled the plug on everybody. Here in Canada, we have hundreds of Canadians stranded there. Were in the middle of an election campaign right now, and it is an issue, but the focus here is on how the Canadian government handled it, not what the Americans did.

Mr. Jekielek: So three quarters of the forces there, as you say, were NATO, non-U.S. NATO forces. How did the UK and Canada actually react to this? These are the two that you would be most familiar with.

Lord Black: Well, as you know, Im a member of the British Parliament. I didnt happen to be there, but Im in the Upper House there, the House of Lords. The British Parliament expressed its contempt for the conduct of the President of the United States.

Now the Americans shouldnt ignore that, as most of their media have. Even in the Revolutionary War, the British Parliament did not state that they were contemptuous of George Washington. They accused him of treason, but they certainly didnt express contempt for him. And theyve never expressed contempt, of course he wasnt the President then, he was just the Commander of the Continental Army. But he was, as everyone knew, the leader of the Americans.

And no president prior to Biden, 44 different individuals, has attracted such opprobrium in so eminent a place as the Parliament of the United Kingdom. And for that to be visited upon this president is a very serious warning that the alliance is not gonna take much more of this.

The Americans have to pull up their socks. In fairness, they were essentially the founders of the Western Alliance and they led it with great distinction, occasional problems, but great distinction over a long period 10 or 12 presidents of both parties. Some were more capable than others, but essentially its been strong leadership leading as it led to the greatest, most bloodless strategic victory in the history of the nation states. The Soviet Union simply disintegrated, fell like a souffle without firing a shot, and the rivalry was over, and the alliance had completely succeeded.

So we mustnt forget or fail to be grateful to the Americans for that. And in light of that, you can get over a shambles like Afghanistan, but they cant have too many of them or there really wont be a Western alliance anymore. That I think is the view in Britain, France, Canada, and as far as I know anything about it, most of the NATO countries.

I think Germanys a special case. The Poles and the Baltic countries, Romania, Hungary, theyre just going to pretend it didnt happen. They placed all the bets on the Americans preventing any more impositions by the Germans or the Russians upon them. And so they simply are not gonna entertain the thought that the United States cant do it anymore.

But the other allies, like the ones you mentioned, Britain, France, Canada, they were shocked. Theyre all shocked, but on the other hand, theyre experienced countries. We all make mistakes. These things happen.

Its still the great United States of America, and presumably, whatever the political backbiting in the United States, both parties will know not to do this kind of thing again. Not to fail to consult properly, not to fail to plan properly and not to sort of slam the door and tell everyone its none of their business.

They warned the Afghans; the Afghan army were cowards. They told everyone to leave, they didnt leave, and the hell with them: thats essentially what Biden and his colleagues are doing, and it wont fly. Theres no doubt its been a disaster, but its eminently recoverable, or at least a disaster that can be made up for and got overcurable, a curable disaster.

Mr. Jekielek: So lets talk about that, and I think, you know, you alluded to it perhaps earlier, when you were talking about the way JFK responded to the Bay of Pigs, but so what do you see as a, you know, way forward here that would, that would be constructive in light of, you know, these international alliances and so forth?

Lord Black: Well, I myself have advocated for some years that NATO be repurposed. I mean, North Atlantic, it was started with seven or eight countries and they were North Atlantic countries. Now they go out to as far as Greece and Turkey, which is a fair distance from the North Atlantic.

I think it should be reconstituted as an alliance of democratic states. Whether, for example, Turkey fits into that, I dont know. I mean, in the early days, you know, we had to tolerate Francos Spain, and Salazars Portugal and the Greek colonels, and various regimes that were not democratic in Turkey. But now I think we call it the Alliance of Democratic States and stretch through the Middle East and into the Far East.

Then I think we could modify the original containment strategy and put it not as the containment of other countries, most conspicuously China, but as the defense and legitimate non-belligerent promotion of all of the member states as a group. This would in effect be in the Far East and in South Asia, a containment strategy for China.

Anyone who wanted to rally to it, to resist the Chinese aggrandizementlets not call it imperialism or aggression, but aggrandizement or some slightly less pejorative wordwould be welcome if they were acceptable regimes, you see.

Like anything, any institution,  after 72 years, its apt to need a bit of renovation, and I think thats what we should do.The Americans having made their point that they can act unilaterally if they want to, as they did when they essentially unilaterally got rid of Saddam Hussein. The British were there, but the others were sort of token participants. Theyve made their point.

The United States is a strong country; we know that. But they should go back to being what theyve been very good at. Their leading statesmen, like Eisenhower, Dean Acheson, Truman, Nixon, Reagan, were all very good at this multi-lateral game, even though they held the chair.

They were considerate of their allies and liked and respected by their allies. And they can go back to that. We can make it a bigger alliance, but no one could claim it was an imperialist organization at all. It was merely trying to defend what it had and be positive in the world. Thats the way to go.

Just for arguments sake, which I do not for one minute believe or have any reason to believe, say the Biden administration actually came to the well-considered and thoroughly discussed intention of bringing back somewhat towards the United States the outer perimeter of defined American interests. They had decided the hell with Afghanistan; we dont care about it. The hell with Pakistan; we dont care about that. Were just going to entrench a bit so that we can defend more capably what is really a value to us, relationships that are values such as South Korea or Japan or India, whatever.

If theyd done that, I might disagree with how they did it, or even that they did it at all, but at least youd have to respect it as intelligent, comprehensive policymaking. Theyd examined it carefully, come to a plan of action to make the change and made the change. Incompetently as it turned out, but at least it was part of a plan.

But theres no evidence theyve done anything like that. I dont see any evidence of anyone whos doing any strategic thinking around there, or has done really sinceI dont wanna be unkind here, but I think George Bush Sr. knew a lot about foreign policy. And I think Clinton was effectively coasting in foreign affairs terms on what Reagan did. Reagan won them the Cold War, this overwhelming victory. Their only rival just disintegrated and they didnt need much more foreign policy.

I think theyd better get back into the habit of having serious foreign policy specialists preparing serious plans and presenting them to the president and ultimately the country for the determination. Jimmy Carter was no expert in foreign policy, but Zbigniew Brzezinski was. And Gerald Ford wasnt, but Henry Kissinger was.

There is a great postwar tradition of very, very astute foreign policy experts generally being in charge of American foreign policy, under the overall determination of the president of course. Some presidents, particularly Mr. Nixon, have been real foreign policy experts. They should go back to that. Theyve developed a few bad habits since they became briefly, the only superpower. They should recognize theres another one.

Mr. Jekielek: Recently the Taliban spokespeople have been saying that theyre going to be basically relying on China or the Chinese Communist Party for funding, and fueling a kind of economic comeback.

Lord Black: The Chinese are welcome to it. Every cent that they spend in Afghanistan will be wasted. If they wanna spend, put their Belt and Road through there, I think we should rejoice in that. Its not a graveyard of empires; its just a waste of great powers attention.

And Im not one of those whos concerned about the money theyre pouring into Africa. In the end, theyre going to lose all of that too. In the end, the Africans will take over all the assets the Chinese have built for them.

The whole Chinese expansionist influence-building plan is nonsense. I feel about it the way I did when they said they were going to build a catamaran aircraft carrier. It was an insane concept. If theyd done it, when it got into heavy weather out in the far Pacific, it would have disintegrated. You cant build aircraft carriers as catamarans.

Well, I think the Chinese are embarking in areas where theyre not familiar, and they dont realize how easily local nationalist sentiment can arise, gain support from rivals to the country they were then objecting to, namely China in this scenario, and sort of scorch the fingers of outreaching China.

As a plan of expansion of Chinese influence, I think the whole thing is nonsense. Let them get on with it. I think they would principally, ultimatelyif the West and especially the Americans play their cards rightpromote what we want, which is for the Russians to determine that they are a Western and not an Eastern facing country.

With that in mind, theres a key in this whole thing. The only danger to us from Russia is if, as the Democrats would be apt to do, we rebuffed them so contemptuously, we the west, that we drove them into the arms of the Chinese. That would be a strategic misstep of very serious implications.

But as long as were reasonably respectful of the traditional Russian nationalism thats been either part of the West or coexisted with the West really since Peter the Greats time, except for part of the communist era, then thats what we should be playing for.

China obviously has to be treated with respect, but if they start to become overbearing, seriously overbearing with other countries, we should support those countries. China is not strong enough to challenge the world. Its not really strong enough to challenge the United States if the United States plays its diplomatic cards properly.

Mr. Jekielek: At this moment, given the current reality, what would your suggestions be for the U.S. going forward?

Lord Black: Well, Im one of the last people that this administration would ask advice from. But look, I thought that apart from the stylistic infelicities, Trump was playing it well. He was right to call the worlds attention to the Chinese threat, but in a responsible way, not a McCarthyite demagogic way, and certainly not a racist way, although he was sometimes accused of that, falsely.

I thought he was he was right to build up the military, though he should have been quicker to. It was the admirals who failed him here, but he was the Commander in Chief. To make sure that the aircraft carrier groups were better defended. Now they and some of the bases like Guam are better defended against potential attacks from China. But that can be made up; its just a question of money.

But he was right in trying to kick NATO into shape and telling everyone to pay up more. But I think just a return to essentially Trumps policy but with a much more diplomatic presentation, a much more sophisticated and conciliatory presentation, thats what should be done.

Your core is strengthen the alliance. I would say broaden it. I mean, pump up the alliances in the Far East and in the North Atlantic and across the Mediterranean. Put them all together, making one mighty alliance of democratic states.

It becomes a force and could have a very revitalizing impact on world affairs. Obviously avoid jingoism, unnecessary belligerence from them, but leave no one in any doubt that the defined interest of the democratic world will be defended, will be effectively and forcefully defended. Goodwill to everyone, malice to no one, but well hold our own.

Mr. Jekielek: Well Conrad Black, its such a pleasure to have you on.

Lord Black: Well thank you so much for having me. Always, always my pleasure.

This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

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Conservative leader Erin O'Toole and Liberal leader Justin Trudeau smile during the French-language leaders debate, on Sept. 8, 2021 in Gatineau, Que. (The Canadian Press/Justin Tang)

Conservatives Costing Plan Aims to Cut Deficit by 85% Over Next 5 Years

The Conservative Party released a costing for their 2021 election platform on Sept. 8, committing to reduce the federal budget deficit without cutting government programs.

The Conservatives costing plan aims to reduce deficit by 85 percent, from $168 billion this year to under $25 billion in 2025-26. According to the plan, Conservative platform promises would first add $30 billion to this fiscal years projected budget deficit of $138.2 billion. The deficit would then be reduced year-by-year thereafter.

Even without the additional growth that will result from the plan, no cuts are needed because Conservatives will run a disciplined government that limits the growth of future spending, according to the costing document.

The costing produced by the governments fiscal watchdog, the Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO), was released just hours before the French-language leaders debate.

In a press conference held prior to the leaders debate, OToole told reporters that in this election, the time given for delivering the economic policies was limited due to Trudeaus snap election call.

That was a process that Mr. Trudeau set up. We could not access the PBO until the campaign began, OToole said.

The Conservatives economic recovery plan listed several means to boost Canadas economic performance, including a $5 billion investment in the Canadian Advanced Research Agency, which would increase GDP by 0.6 percent to 1.6 percent over the next five years, based on PBO assumptions.

The $7.6 billion Canada Job Surge Plan will also produce up to an estimated 180,000 jobs. And the $5.6 billion annual investment in Canada Workers Benefit will also increase employment by 0.5 percent, or roughly 95,000 jobs.

The Conservatives also aim to increase business investment by 2 percent over four years through the $13.8 billion in the Canada Investment Accelerator.

Regulatory reform and reducing interprovincial trade barriers would raise Canadas GDP by 1 percent over five years.

The document shows plans to eliminate some programs from the Liberals, including the $2 billion budgeted in the 2021 federal budget for natural climate solutions over five years. This would be reallocated to the Conservatives $1.5 billion project.

The Conservatives also intend to cancel the Trudeaus universal child-care plan, freeing up $26.7 billion, which would partially be used to fund the Conservatives refundable tax credit covering up to 75 percent of the cost of child care for lower income families.
Minister for Education Alan Tudge at a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on Aug. 27, 2021. (AAP Image/Mick Tsikas)

Dark Emu Should Be Removed From Schools: Education Minister

Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge has said that Bruce Pascoes book Dark Emu should not be taught to children in schools.

Dark Emu, published in 2014, claims that Indigenous Australians were not just mere hunter-gatherers, but were actually sophisticated agriculturalists.

The validity of the claims have since been brought into question by experts, yet the book still enjoys support and popularity.

If those [Dark Emu books] are in libraries, and theyre offered to kids as the truth, they should be removed, Tudge told 2GB radio.

Tudge said people should not reinvent history with books like Dark Emu and teach Indigenous history properly.

Its got a lot of traction because I think its suited a leftist narrative, and so it got into the education establishment, he said. We should teach Indigenous history properly as a very rich and vibrant culture before Europeans arrived in this country.

Part of National Reconciliation Week 2016, the installation is for Australians to reflect on Australias national identity and the place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures in the nations story. (William West /AFP via Getty Images)

The book sparked controversy and discussion about Indigenous history and culture, with experts like anthropologist Peter Sutton and archaeologist Keryn Walshe critiquing Dark Emu with their own book.

Sutton and Walshe criticised Dark Emu for being full of misinformation that had no supporting archaeological evidence.

[Dark Emu is] littered with unsourced material, is poorly researched, distorts and exaggerates many points, selectively emphasises evidence to suit those opinions, and ignores large bodies of information that do not support the authors opinions, they wrote.

In response to the criticism, Pascoe wrote in The Good Weekend magazine that he welcomed the discussion and difference of opinion as it should further this important examination of our history.

Pascoe has also revealed his ideologies, saying he wants people and children to rebel against society and question and doubt the orthodoxy of the world, claiming it would lead to a safer world.

We dont need the kind of doubt that cripples us into inaction, but the kind that inspires a generous thirst for investigation, he wrote in an op-ed in The Guardian.

Indigenous commentator Anthony Dillon wrote in an op-ed that as long as political correctness, identity politics, and cancel culture flourish, Dark Emu would not lose any popularity.

In a few years, however, Dark Emu will be seen for what it isan attempt to win favour (and sales) by presenting the Aboriginal person as a brown version of the European, Dillion said.
Attorney General Merrick Garland holds a press conference to announce a lawsuit against Texas at the Department of Justice in Washington on Sept. 9, 2021. (Mandel Ngan/AFP via Getty Images)

DOJ Sues Texas Over New Anti-Abortion Law

The U.S. Department of Justice on Sept. 9 filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas over its recently enacted law that bans most abortions.

Government lawyers in the 27-page suit, obtained by The Epoch Times, say the law runs counter to previous Supreme Court rulings, including Roe v. Wade, which found that access to abortion is a constitutional right.

The law in question, Senate Bill 8, prohibits abortions where a fetal heartbeat can be detected, unless a medical emergency exists that threatens the pregnant mothers life.

If doctors carry out an illegal abortion, private citizens can sue them, along with anyone accused of aiding and abetting.

State officials, meanwhile, are not allowed to enforce the law.

The act is clearly unconstitutional under longstanding Supreme Court precedent, Attorney General Merrick Garland said during a news conference in Washington announcing the suit. Those precedents hold in the words of Planned Parenthood v. Casey, Regardless of whether exceptions are made for particular circumstances, a State may not prohibit any woman from making the ultimate decision to terminate her pregnancy before viability.'

Another concern is that the law conflicts with federal statutes relating to providing abortion services, exposing federal employees to lawsuits, Garland said. He cited as examples work done by the Department of Labor with its Job Corps program and the Department of Defenses TRICARE health program.

In an emailed statement to The Epoch Times, Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts press secretary Renae Eze said, The most precious freedom is life itself.

Texas passed a law that ensures that the life of every child with a heartbeat will be spared from the ravages of abortion. Unfortunately, President Biden and his administration are more interested in changing the national narrative from their disastrous Afghanistan evacuation and reckless open border policies instead of protecting the innocent unborn. We are confident that the courts will uphold and protect that right to life.

An exam room is seen at the Planned Parenthood South Austin Health Center in Austin, Texas, on June 27, 2016. (Ilana Panich-Linsman/Reuters)

Abortion providers tried to have the law blocked before it took effect on Sept. 1, but courts ruled against them. The Supreme Court, after the law took effect, ruled against ordering a preliminary injunction, though justices said they werent ruling on whether the law was constitutional.

Hours later, President Joe Biden said he would direct federal agencies, including the Department of Justice, to analyze the law to see what the federal government could do to ensure that women in Texas have access to safe and legal abortions as protected by Roe, and what legal tools we have to insulate women and providers from the impact of Texas bizarre scheme of outsourced enforcement to private parties.

Some activists say the federal governments reaction was an overreach and question why the Biden administration isnt adhering to the Supreme Court ruling.

The court system is the proper channel for this to move through, and that is where the challenge to the law is moving through and theyre trying to go around that, Rebecca Parma, senior legislative associate at Texas Right to Life, a pro-life group, told The Epoch Times.

But Democrats cheered the suit, including Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-Texas), saying she applauded Biden and the Department of Justice for fighting against the draconian Texas abortion ban and working to ensure federal civil rights laws are protected everywhere in America.
DUP Leader to Outline Next Steps in Campaign Against Northern Ireland Protocol

The leader of the DUP is to announce the next steps in his partys campaign to remove the Northern Ireland Protocol.

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson will be speaking in the Belfast area on Thursday morning as European Commission Vice President Maros Sefcovic is visiting the region.

Speaking ahead of his speech, Donaldson blasted the protocol as not just a threat to the economic and constitutional integrity of the United Kingdom, but said the post Brexit arrangements are having real world impacts on our economy.

The protocol was agreed by the UK and EU as a way to maintain a free-flowing land border on the island of Ireland.

It achieves that by moving many of the checks and processes required on goods to the Irish Sea.

Under the arrangements, Northern Ireland remains in the EU single market for goods and continues to apply EU customs rules.

Unionists in Northern Ireland have been vehemently opposed to its terms that see additional checks on goods arriving to the region from the rest of the UK.

Loyalists have staged a series of demonstrations while unionists have taken legal action against it.

Earlier this week, the UK government announced it was unilaterally extending a variety of grace periods to further delay full implementation of aspects of the protocol.

The government said the move was to create space to reach an agreement with the EU on some of the ongoing sticking points.

Brexit stressed the protocol is not just a unionist problem.

Senior economist at the University of Ulster Business School, Dr. Esmond Birnie recently suggested that the cost of the Northern Ireland protocol could be in the region of 850 million [$1,171 million] per year, he said.

That is money we simply cannot afford to lose. And though I am alarmed by the constitutional implications of the protocol, it is assuredly not simply a unionist issue. In recent days Marks & Spencer chairman Archie Norman warned that customers in Northern Ireland could face a substantial reduction in food supply and price increases later this year.

Donaldson said he welcomed the recent publication of the UKs command paper as a step in the right direction, but he added, in the absence of actual progress, we cannot remain in this political limbo.

There are three key issuesmovement of goods, standards and governance. It is essential that all are addressed, he said.

This is not simply a question of limiting checks at the border or moving the checks from the border.

It must mean that, save for the most limited circumstances, EU law would not apply in Northern Ireland.

And it must mean that where there is a dispute, we are not being asked to argue our case in front of a judicial system created by one of the parties to that dispute.

The DUP, under previous leader Arlene Foster, previously announced a campaign to ditch the protocol.

In February it vowed to actively oppose any negative measures, laws, or bills that flowed from the protocol and undermined Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market.

They then also put the Dublin and London governments on notice that the party will not participate in any talks with the Irish government related to the protocol, warning that north-south relations would be impacted.

Meanwhile, Sefcovic is expected to hold a series of meetings in Northern Ireland on Thursday during his visit.

By Rebecca Black
Dylann Roof enters the court room at the Charleston County Judicial Center to enter his guilty plea on murder charges in Charleston, South Carolina, on April 10, 2017. (Grace Beahm/The Post And Courier via AP, Pool, File)

Dylann Roof Seeks Rehearing on Church Shooting Conviction

Dylann Roof has filed the next step in his federal appeal, challenging a courts confirmation of his conviction and death sentence for the 2015 racist slayings of nine members of a black South Carolina congregation.

In a petition filed Wednesday with the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, attorneys for Roof argued that the courts decision last month to uphold his federal conviction and sentence interpreted too broadly the Commerce Clause of the U.S. Constitution, which authorizes Congress to regulate commerce among the states.

Last month, a three-judge panel of the court unanimously upheld Roofs conviction and sentence, saying the legal record cannot even capture the full horror of what he did. The judges rejected arguments that the young white man should have been ruled incompetent to stand trial in the shootings at Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston. Now, Roof wants the full court to consider his appeal.

By accepting the governments argument that a combination of factors including Roofs use of the internet to post his views and research the church constituted interstate commerce, Roofs lawyers wrote, the panels decision amounted to an amorphous, unprecedented, and all-encompassing standard for federal Commerce Clause jurisdiction over local crime, effectively nullifying states traditional police power in that arena.

In 2017, Roof became the first person in the U.S. sentenced to death for a federal hate crime. Authorities have said Roof opened fire during the closing prayer of a Bible study at Mother Emanuel, raining down dozens of bullets on those assembled. He was 21 at the time.

In his appeal, Roofs attorneys had argued that he was wrongly allowed to represent himself during sentencing, a critical phase of his trial. Roof successfully prevented jurors from hearing evidence about his mental health, under the delusion, his attorneys argued, that he would be rescued from prison by white-nationalistsbut only, bizarrely, if he kept his mental impairments out of the public record.

Roofs lawyers said his convictions and death sentence should be vacated, or his case should be sent back to court for a proper competency evaluation.

This June 18, 2015, file photo, provided by the Charleston County Sheriffs Office shows Dylann Roof. (Charleston County Sheriffs Office via AP, File)

The 4th Circuit initially found that the trial judge did not commit an error when he found Roof was competent to stand trial and issued a scathing rebuke of Roofs crimes.

No cold record or careful parsing of statutes and precedents can capture the full horror of what Roof did, the judges wrote. His crimes qualify him for the harshest penalty that a just society can impose.

It remains to be seen who exactly would hear the case, should the court grant Roof a full hearing. All of the judges in the 4th Circuit, which covers South Carolina, have recused themselves; one of their own, Judge Jay Richardson, prosecuted Roofs case as an assistant U.S. attorney. The panel that heard arguments in May and issued Augusts ruling was composed of judges from several other appellate circuits.

Along with his request for a full-court hearing, Roof also asked that either U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts designate a panel to consider the rehearing petition or the 4th Circuits chief judge designate other judges from within that district to make up such a panel.

After his federal trial, Roof was given nine consecutive life sentences after pleading guilty in 2017 to state murder charges, leaving him to await execution in a federal prison and sparing his victims and their families the burden of a second trial.

Earlier this summer, however, Attorney General Merrick Garland issued a moratorium and halted all federal executions while the Justice Department conducts a review of its execution policies and procedures. The review comes after a historic run of capital punishment at the end of the Trump administration, which carried out 13 executions in six months.

A federal lawsuit also has been filed over the execution protocolsincluding the risk of pain and suffering associated with the use of pentobarbital, the drug used for lethal injection.

As a candidate, President Joe Biden said hed work to end federal executions. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said in March that he continues to have grave concerns about it.

If unsuccessful in his direct appeal, Roof could file whats known as a 2255 appeal, or a request that the trial court review the constitutionality of his conviction and sentence. He could also petition the U.S. Supreme Court or seek a presidential pardon.

By Meg Kinnard
EasyJet planes are parked at a stand at Stansted Airport, in Stansted, Britain on June 30, 2020. (Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

EasyJet to Raise $1.7 Billion After Rejecting Takeover Bid

LONDONEasyJet has rejected a takeover offer and will instead raise $1.7 billion from shareholders to strengthen its position in a European market struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the British airline said on Thursday.

The low-cost carrier did not identify its suitor, but said the all-share approach fundamentally undervalued its business and the potential bidder had since said it was no longer interested in a deal.

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters the approach was from budget rival Wizz Air, which declined to comment.

EasyJet Chief Executive Johan Lundgren told reporters the approach was highly conditional in its nature which made it very uncertain in terms of the deliverability of it.

The airline said the planned rights issue would strengthen its balance sheet should the COVID-19 downturn continue and allow it to take advantage of an expected recovery in Europes aviation market over the coming years by, for example, expanding its presence at key airports by buying more landing slots.

I believe this is really a once in a lifetime opportunity, Lundgren said.

EasyJet is aiming to steal market share from legacy carriers like British Airways owner IAG and Air France-KLM as they retract their short-haul operations.

But it faces stiff competition from low-cost rivals Ryanair, Europes biggest airline, and Wizz Air, both of which have recovered faster than easyJet over the summer.

IAG also plans to step up its low-cost offer with a new subsidiary at Londons Gatwick Airport aimed at better competing with easyJet.

EasyJet said that over July-September it expected its capacity to be about 57 percent of pre-pandemic levels. Ryanair flew around 75 percent of its normal passenger numbers in August, and Wizz flew over 85 percent that month.

Shares in easyJet, which were trading around 1,550 pence before the pandemic hit in early 2020, fell as much as 14 percent in early deals to 680 pence, the lowest since January, reflecting the big discount proposed for the rights issue.

They regained some ground to trade down 10 percent at 712 pence at 0815 GMT, giving a market capitalisation of 3.33 billion pounds ($4.59 billion). IAG shares were down 3.3 percent, the biggest faller in the FTSE-100, while Wizz was down 2.6 percent.

Under the rights issue, shareholders would be able to buy 31 new shares for every 47 existing ones for 410 pence each, a 35.8 percent discount on the theoretical ex-rights price of 638 pence per share on Sept. 8, easyJet said.

The issue is underwritten by BNP Paribas, Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, Santander and Societe Generale.

EasyJet also announced a new committed $400 million secured revolving credit facility.

($1 = 0.7264 pounds)

By Sarah Young
People carry a victim of a terror attack at the Ambassador Hotel, after Somalia's Al-Qaeda-linked Shabaab launched a deadly attack in Mogadishu, Somalia, on June 1, 2016. (Mohamed Abdiwahab /AFP via Getty Images)

Fall of Kabul to Taliban Raises Fear of Terrorisms Rise in Africa

News Analysis

Conditions in Africa represent a perfect storm thats fueling the rise of Islamic terrorism on the continent, security experts tell The Epoch Times. They cite Africas newest insurgency, in northern Mozambique, as a prime example.

Professor Adriano Nuvunga, from the political science department of the Eduardo Mondlane University in Mozambiques capital Maputo, warned of growing militancy in Cabo Delgado Province as far back as 2007. He says the motivations of those who answer the call of jihad are both economic and ideological.

The academic, whos also a human rights and democracy activist, watched as marginalized youth in the impoverished region began rebelling against the authority of local Muslim leaders. In 2010, huge natural gas deposits were found off the Cabo Delgado coast, and the Mozambican government, in concert with French energy giant Total, soon began exploiting them.

Nuvunga warned how dangerous it was to exclude local inhabitants from access to the bounty. He warned of Islamic terrorists crossing the borders of Tanzania and Somalia to take advantage of the disaffection and economic exclusion of locals, to instigate a jihad.

Nuvunga visited Cabo Delgado regularly and heard that frustrated fishermen, informal traders, and illegal miners were joining a band of al-Shabaab fighters in the bush to begin an insurgency against the state.

Not many people listened to him until, in October 2017, the insurgents attacked the coastal town of Mocimboa da Praia, shooting and beheading people. Since then, al-Shabaab has burned villages, taken women and girls as servants and sex slaves, and demanded that Cabo Delgado be governed by Sharia law.

Nuvunga says government soldiers, along with private military contractors hired by the government, have abused the people theyre meant to protect in Cabo Delgado.

His organization, Center for Democracy and Development, puts the current death toll as a result of the violence at around 3,000, with 600,000 to 800,000 people displaced from their homes.

Along with the emergence of ISIS in Mozambique, there are now terrorist insurgencies in all major regions in Africa.

Africa a Perfect Storm

Juliet Kamau, an independent security analyst based in Nairobi, says the continent represents a perfect storm to fuel fundamentalist terrorism: millions of desperately poor people with nothing to lose by joining insurgencies, combined with large ungoverned territories. In such spaces, terrorists establish strong bases.

According to the African Union (AU) Center for the Study and Research on Terrorism, there were almost 1,200 terrorist attacks across the continent in the first eight months of 2020an increase of almost 20 percent in such incidents compared with the same period in 2019.

Thats unimaginable, and it certainly indicates a worrying, growing trend, professor Suzanne Graham told The Epoch Times. She is studying Africas burgeoning terror threat for the Department of International Relations at Johannesburgs Wits University.

She says half of the 20 countries globally that experience serious terrorism regularly are now in Africa.

Graham says the AU is trying to combat terrorism but seems overwhelmed by the scale of the threat.

If we have an African Union in place, if we have the African standby force, the peace and security council architectureat least on paperwhy is it that were not able to be proactive and use early warning systems to really address problems before they become major emergency threats, and lives are lost?

The AU didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

At the moment, Graham says, the AU reacts to terrorism using multiple, ad hoc force deployments, such as the one currently underway in Mozambique, consisting of troops from several southern African nations, plus Rwanda.

They, although useful, tend to detract slightly from a single African focus by states to fine-tune a structured response to terrorism thats a holistic response, a continental response, as opposed to regional responses, she said.

Taliban Influence

Taliban hegemony in Afghanistan will be a massive propaganda tool for Islamic terrorist organizations everywhere, according to Stephen Buchanan-Clarke, who heads security programs for Good Governance Africa in Johannesburg.

The Taliban victory will be a huge source of motivation for jihadist groups, who will portray it as proof that a small, local insurgency can, over time, defeat even the greatest military in the world, said the security analyst, who maintains contact with a network of intelligence and security force sources across the continent.

Officials in the defense departments of several African countries spoke to The Epoch Times about their concerns that Taliban control of Afghanistan could encourage African terror groups to launch extensive, and fruitful, recruitment drives.

The propaganda aspect of the Taliban takeover certainly is the single biggest threat to African security, Buchanan-Clarke said.

He also warns of terrorist organizations in Africa using a possible increase in the flow of heroin from Afghanistan to finance their operations, even though the Taliban has previously declared itself opposed to the trade.

They have said publicly theyll ban the trade, but this is highly unlikely given the economic situation in Afghanistan and the realities that are about to hit the Taliban with regard to governing a nation, Buchanan-Clarke said.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime says the entire eastern seaboard of Africa is a major heroin smuggling route.

Heroin farmed in Afghanistan is shipped from the Makran coast of southern Pakistan to coastal towns in Mozambique, in particular, where policing is poor and corruption rife. From there, the drug is trafficked into South Africa, which in itself is a big market, and onward to international markets.

Theres potential, in time, for the Mozambican insurgents to gain a foothold in the heroin trade to sustain their operations, Buchanan-Clarke said.

Weapons and Training

The analyst doesnt think the Taliban will be training African Islamic insurgent groups now that its assumed control of Afghanistan.

The Talibans predominantly Pashtun, and theyve a much more local focus; theirs is more of a nationalist insurgency. Theyre pretty much limited to Afghanistan and parts of Pakistan. Its not a global jihadist network in the same sense that ISIS and al-Qaeda are.

Far more likely, said Buchanan-Clarke, is an increase in ISIS operatives being sent to Africa to train terror groups such as Boko Haram in Nigeria.

Both Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa have received training from ISIS Central in Libya and Iraq. Its ISIS trainers being sent to Africa, not African insurgents going to train abroad.

He says the weaponry and military assets left behind by U.S. forces in Afghanistan are obviously extremely concerning.

Whether the Taliban choose to trade some of those arms to other insurgents in the region, its too early to tell, but there is potential. But then again, the Taliban has its own fights with ISIS and al-Qaeda.

Buchanan-Clarke said its important to realize that while the United States has withdrawn from Afghanistan, it hasnt abandoned its global war on terror, and Washingtons well aware that Africa is a significant new front in that conflict.

Itll be interesting to see if the U.S., because it now has a lot of freed-up counterterrorism capacity, chooses to reallocate some of that toward Africa. We may see an increased American presence on the continent, he said.
A screenshot of Florid Gov. Ron DeSantis listening to a report from a member of his administration at the governor's office in Tallahassee, Fla., on April 1, 2021. (Screenshot via The Epoch Times)

Florida Files Emergency Motion to Reinstate School Mask Mandate Ban

PUNTA GORDA, Fla.Mere hours after a Florida district court judge ruled to allow schools to mandate face coverings, the state filed an emergency motion asking an appeals court to reinstate the stay on Wednesday night.

In the motion, Gov. Ron DeSantis team is asking that a hold be put on the Aug. 27 ruling by Circuit Judge John Cooper, whose ruling contends that the governor overreached his constitutional authority when he signed an executive order that prevented Florida school districts from requiring their students to wear masks.

On Wednesday morning, the judge lifted an automatic stay, which is typically provided to the government in such lawsuits, allowing schools to keep their mask politics in place without retribution from the Department of Education.

Cooper, in his Sept. 2 signed order (pdf), referred to a new state law known as the Parents Bill of Rights, which gives parents the right to control health and educational decisions for their children. Cooper said state school board Commissioner Richard Corcoran and the Department of Education denied school districts their due process by improperly imposing financial penalties on districts that enact mask mandates.

During the four days that the order was not signed by the judge after his initial ruling on Aug. 27, the Florida Department of Education levied fines in the amount of the school board and superintendents salaries for Broward and Alachua counties. Corcoran also put Lee, Sarasota, and Miami-Dade counties on notice that they were under investigation for violating the governors order.

The law of Florida does not permit the defendants to punish school boards, its members, or officials for adopting face mask mandates with no parental opt-outs if the schools boards have been denied their due process rights under the Parents Bill of Rights to show that this policy is reasonable and meets the requirements of the statute, Cooper wrote in his order.

The motion filed by the DeSantis team Wednesday evening contends that the governor could not have violated the law.

According to its plain terms, the Parents Bill of Rights limits governmental authority and protects the inherent rights of parents, the motion said. Thus, the governor could not possibly have violated the Parents Bill of Rights by protecting parents rights. Most assuredly, the Parents Bill of Rights does not grant any authority to local school districts that did not previously exist.

The motion also argues that the judge in his ruling over-stepped his bounds and violated constitutional separation of powers and examined policy and political issues about whether schools should be allowed to require masks.

The adequate level of safety in schools and other public settings is a political question reserved entirely for elected representatives who are publicly accountable, the states motion read. Therefore, in finding irreparable harm (from a stay of his ruling), the trial court should not have substituted its own health policy preferences or risk assessments for those of the governor or, more importantly, the state health officer and the surgeon general.

The case history goes back to Aug. 6 when a group of parents filed a lawsuit (pdf) in the Leon County Circuit Court against Gov. Ron DeSantis, the state board of education commissioner, and the state board of education citing that the governors executive order impairs the safe operation of schools. The complaint went on to say that the governors order took away constitutional powers to operate, supervise and control schools in their respective districts.

The appeals court gave the plaintiffs until 8 p.m. Thursday to file a response.
Good Samaritan Sees Building Collapse, Climbs Into Rubble to Pull Elderly Couple out Alive

One Philadelphia man is thanking God for putting him in the right place at the right time after he pulled an elderly couple from a collapsed building in West Kensington.

David Velazquez was driving with his cousin Kathy to pick up his son from a friends house on the night of Sept. 2. They were near the intersection of North Front and Dauphin Streets when, at around 10 p.m., Kathy heard a crumbling sound.

They saw plumes of dust coming from a collapsed three-story building with shops below and residential units above. David pulled over, got out of the car, and ran over to the structure that lay in ruins before him.

(Courtesy of Juliana Marie Santiago via David Velazquez)

I yell, Anybody there? Can anybody hear me? I said it in English and Spanish, David told The Epoch Times. After about two minutes, I heard a voice saying, Im here, Im here, please help me, but in Spanish.

So I climbed the up with no hesitation, I forgot about the live electrical wiring, the gas fumes which couldve went up in flames with any sort of spark.

Sifting through the rubble, he came eye to eye with an older man and asked him if there was anyone else trapped under the debris.

He said, Yes my wife. I said, Do you know where shes at? He said, Yes, under all the stuff I was under, David recalled.

After first getting the man to safety, David searched through the debris and soon found the woman, who was trapped under a collapsed beam, crushing her legs. But when David tried to remove the beam, he saw the roof of the structure crumbling, placing his own life in danger.

(Courtesy of Juliana Marie Santiago via David Velazquez)

I stopped moving the beam, now my phone falls, now I dont have a light, he said.

He reached for his phone, grabbed it, and saw a photo of his grandsonand then he felt this strength that encouraged him.

He kissed the womans forehead, told her, God be with us, before pulling her free.

She gave a really, really loud scream for about three seconds, he said.

By then, the fire department arrived at the scene. They pulled the woman out of the hole, but forgot to help David out after he helped lift her up.

But, no worries, he said. Same way I climbed in, I climbed out.

(Courtesy of David Velazquez)

After the daring rescue, David was concerned about the womans welfare and went to Temple Hospital to see how she was doing; he was unable to see her due to restrictions owing to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, though he heard her crying and calling him an angel.

The man and his wife did manage to meet up with David days later. They took photos together at the rescue scene, and David posted them on his Facebook page.

I would do again if the opportunity presents itself, he told the newspaper. My parents taught me and raised me well with lots of morals and respect for all humankind. No matter race, religion, or ethnic, we all bleed the same and we all have a purpose in life.

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
A man wearing a protective face mask walks under surveillance cameras as China is hit by an outbreak of the novel coronavirus, in Shanghai, on March 4, 2020. (Aly Song/Reuters)

US Government Increasingly Relying on New Geosurveillance Method, Google Report Shows

U.S. law enforcers are increasingly relying on geofence warrants, a new surveillance tactic that civil libertarians say violates the Fourth Amendment, according to a recent transparency report from Google.

Unlike typical warrants that authorize the surveillance of specific targets, geofence warrants allow police to collect vast troves of geolocation data from devices within a given area in a certain timeframe. Law enforcers reportedly used geofence warrants to investigate crimes committed during last summers Black Lives Matter riots, as well as the Jan. 6 Capitol breachfueling concern that data from journalists and other innocent bystanders also were swept up in the process.

While law enforcements use of geofence warrants has been public knowledge for years, Googles Aug. 19 report is the first time a major company has disclosed statistics on the surveillance method.

According to Googles report, the company received more than 11,500 geofence warrants from federal, state, and local agencies last year aloneup from 9,000 in 2019. Google only began receiving geofence warrants in 2016, the company said.

About 95 percent of geofence warrants are from state jurisdictions, with the remainder coming from federal agencies, the report stated. California is the most active geofence warrant issuer in the country, making about 18 percent of all requestsfollowed by Texas (9 percent), Florida (8 percent), and Michigan (5 percent).

Geofence warrants comprised about one-quarter of all demands for information from law enforcers in 2020, according to Google.

Prior to 2019, Google received relatively few geofence warrantsonly a handful in the second quarter of 2018, and none in the first quarter.

But in June 2018, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down a landmark judgment in Carpenter v U.S., ruling that law enforcements warrantless collection of cellphone geolocation data violated the Fourth Amendment.

Civil liberties groups say the Carpenter decision was the impetus for the rise of several new surveillance tactics, including geofence warrants, purchasing data in bulk from companies rather than obtaining it via warrant, and the use of stingraysdevices that simulate cell towers and collect signals from devices nearby. Law enforcers have also taken to controversial keyword warrants that identify every user who searched for a specific keyword, phrase, or address.

The civil liberties groups charge that these methods are designed to skirt Fourth Amendment protections.

These blanket warrants circumvent constitutional checks on police surveillance, creating a virtual dragnet of our religious practices, political affiliations, sexual orientation, and more, the ACLU stated in December 2020.

Lawmakers have responded with legislation that would establish explicit warrant requirements for some of these new methods. The Fourth Amendment is Not for Sale Act would place warrant requirements on the purchase of bulk data, while the Cell Site Simulator Warrant Act would establish similar rules for the use of stingrays.

The Fourth Amendment means what it says, even in the digital age, Rep. Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) said in June when introducing the Cell Site Simulator Warrant Act.

However, these bills havent made it out of committee. The Project on Government Oversight (POGO) also has lamented the lack of legislation to address geofence warrants.

POGO stated that a law to address law enforcements use of stingrays could likely be tailored to include geofence warrants, too.

Like stingrays, law enforcement demands for geofence data risk sweeping in sensitive data about large groups of people not suspected of wrongdoing, POGO stated in its analysis of the Google report. Legislation built around a super warrant requirement could effectively mitigate the dangers that geofence warrants pose, and serve as an important companion to the two bills already under consideration.

The full extent of law enforcements use of geofence warrants is still unclear, as Google is the only major company to publicly disclose the number of demands it has received. Microsoft has publicly denied being subject to geofence warrants, while Apple and Facebook have been tight-lipped on the matter, according to the nonprofit tech watchdog The Markup.

Googles Aug. 19 report stated that the company works to protect the privacy of its users while supporting the necessary work of law enforcement.

We carefully review each request to make sure it satisfies applicable laws, and notify users when their identifying information is disclosed in response to a geofence warrant, unless expressly prohibited by law or a court order, Google stated.
Former Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agent and Giffords Law Center senior policy advisor David Chipman (R) testifies before U.S. House Judiciary Committee during a hearing on assault weapons in the Rayburn House Office Building on Capitol Hill in Washington on Sept. 25, 2019. Chipman is President Joe Bidens nominee to head the ATF. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

Biden Withdraws Nomination of Gun Control Advocate David Chipman to Head ATF

The White House on Thursday withdrew the controversial nomination of David Chipman to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), releasing a statement explaining the decision.

President Joe Biden accused congressional Republicans of us[ing] gun crime as a talking point instead of taking serious steps to address it. These same Republicans, the White House says, have moved in lockstep to block David Chipmans confirmation, because they side with gun manufacturers over the overwhelming majority of the American people.

Biden in the statement thanked Chipman for his service in the ATF, saying he would have been an exemplary Director of the ATF and would have redoubled its efforts to crack down on illegal firearms traffickers and help keep our communities safe from gun violence.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters in Washington that the White House is in active discussions with Chipman on finding him another role in the administration.

In its 50-year history, the ATF has had recurring difficulties in getting Senate confirmation for appointed directors, with only one nomineeB. Todd Jones, appointed by President Barack Obamaever being confirmed by the Senate.

Chipmans withdrawal is the second failure by the president to secure confirmation for his nominees. The other was Neera Tanden, Bidens nominee for the White House Office of Management and Budget, after inflammatory tweets from the nominee alienated moderate Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), one of the most critical swing votes in the upper chamber for Democratic policy priorities.

Chipman, a staunch gun control advocate, has faced significant criticism from moderate members of the Senate Democratic caucus, gun rights groups, and Republican leadership since his nomination.

Like Tanden, controversy surrounding Chipman fractured the Democratic unity needed for a confirmation, with Manchin, along with moderate Sens. Angus King (I-Maine) and Jon Tester (D-Mont.) signaling strong skepticism toward the nominee.

The National Association for Gun Rights (AGR), a strongly pro-Second Amendment organization, issued a statement on the withdrawal.

This morning, the White House and anti-gun Democrats admitted defeat and withdrew their nomination of David Chipman to head the ATF, the AGR said in its release. It referenced the split among Senate Democrats, saying that the staunch gun control advocate could not garner enough support in the U.S. Senate to make it through the nomination process.

The AGR quoted its president, Dudley Brown, saying Chipmans nomination was a slap in the face to gun owners across the country. Now, thanks to the pro-gun grassroots, weve put Chipman back where he belongs: at home, without a job.

While Brown celebrated the defeat, he predicted that President [Joe] Biden will prop up another anti-gun pawn in the near future. He added that AGR and its members stand ready to oppose their unconstitutional actions.

Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) in July unleashed a torrent of accusations at Chipman and the party that nominated him on the Senate floor. He criticized Democrats for allowing crime rates to rise dramatically by implicitly supporting defund the police by staying silent.

Thune said that Democrats, now concerned about their prospects in 2022, are turning their attention to creating new laws that will only serve to further burden the constitutionally guaranteed Second Amendment rights of law-abiding individuals. Rather, he suggested that this rise in crime should be dealt with by more stringent enforcement of current laws and punishment of criminals. Thune called the crime surge a convenient excuse for [Democrats to push] some of their gun control priorities.

Finally, Thune turned to Bidens nomination of Chipman. Nowhere are President Bidens priorities more clear than in his choice of nominee to lead the ATF. Chipman, the senator noted, would come to the ATF directly from an organization where he has spent the past five years as a gun control advocate.

Before his nomination, Chipman worked as a senior policy adviser at Giffords Law Center. The organization, founded by Arizona state Rep. Gabby Giffords, announces on its website landing page, Were on a mission to save lives from gun violence. Giffords herself began the group after being wounded in a 2011 shooting in Tuscon.

Thune continued, saying that Chipman is known for his sometimes extreme views on gun control and restricting the Second Amendment.

Prominently, Thune said, Chipman would work to ban probably the most popular rifle in the United States, the Armalite Rifle-15 (AR-15). He also, said Thune, supports a so-called assault weapons ban, which usually refers to banning certain guns for their accessories and their appearance of lethality.

Thune then pointed to a former hearing for the nominee, where Chipman could not give a clear representation of how he would define such a policy.

Earlier this year, Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) of the Senate Judiciary Committee asked Chipman, Do you believe in private ownership of assault weapons? Chipman quickly responded in the affirmative, but declined to say what ones he owned himself.

Kennedy then put forward a corollary question, asking the nominee Do you believe in banning assault weapons? Again, Chipman responded that he does.

Kennedy then asked as a follow-up how Chipman would define assault weapons. Chipman said that assault weapons would be something that members of Congress would define.

Well, how do you define it? Kennedy asked. After a short back-and-forth, Chipman said, Theres no way I could define an assault weapon.
Vice President Kamala Harris stands on stage with California Gov. Gavin Newsom at the conclusion of an event at the IBEW-NECA Joint Apprenticeship Training Center in San Leandro, Calif., Sept. 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Harris Rallies for California Governor Facing Recall Election

Vice President Kamala Harris on Wednesday returned to her home state of California to campaign for Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, who faces a recall election in the countrys most populous state.

Harris appeared with Newsom in San Leandro and urged voters to vote against the recall effort. The area is not far from Oakland, where Harris was born.

Prior to her appointment as vice president, Harris was a U.S. senator representing California. Before that, she served as the states attorney general for six years.

She sought to portray the election as one where Democrat and Republican priorities clash, while echoing Newsoms campaign message that the impact of the recall will not be limited to just California.

Whats happening in Texas, whats happening in Georgia, whats happening around our country with these policies that are about attacking womens rights, reproductive rights, voting rights, workers rights, Harris, a Democrat, told a crowd of about 200 volunteers and labor union members in San Leandro, just six days ahead of the gubernatorial recall election day on Sept. 14.

They think if they can win in California they can do this anywhere. Well, we will show them you are not going to get this done. Not here, ever.

California, let us send a message to the world that these are the things we stand for, these are the things we fight for, and we will not give up, she added.

In her speech of just over 10 minutes, Harris praised the incumbent governor for his handling of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic.

She said that Newsom, who won in a landslide in 2018, led with courage during the pandemics early days by issuing a statewide stay-at-home order in March 2020 ahead of other states to limit the CCP viruss spread, reported The Sacramento Bee.

Harris also mentioned Newsoms time as mayor of San Francisco in 2004, when he issued same-sex marriage licenses at a time when same-sex unions were not recognised as marriage in any state, saying that he has had the courage to believe in and know what is possible, according to KGO.

The vice president praised Newsoms stance on abortion access, saying that those who oppose him wouldnt be trying to recall him but for the fact that he has always stood for reproductive rights.

At the same time, Harris criticized Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, for his comments earlier this week on a Texas law that bans abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected.

Abbott was asked why the law didnt make exceptions for cases of rape and incest, to which he responded that the state will work tirelessly to make sure that we eliminate all rapists from the streets of Texas by aggressively going out and arresting them and prosecuting them and getting them off the streets.

Harris accused Abbott of having arrogantly dismissed concerns about rape survivors. She attempted to draw a distinction between Abbott and Newsom, asserting that to speak those words that were empty words, that were false words, that were fueled with not only arrogance but bravadothat is not who we want in our leaders. We want in our leaders someone like Gavin Newsom who always speaks the truth.

Outside the outdoor venue, more than a dozen protesters loudly chanted Free, free Afghanistan! and No deals for the Taliban, reported the New York Post. Others held signs to push for Newsoms recall, and to support Larry Elder, the leading Republican challenger in the recall election.

Elder is among 46 candidates seeking to replace Newsom if the governor is removed via the recall effort. The recall election will ask voters to decide whether Newsom should be recalled, and if so, who should replace him.

The recall election was made possible after a petition drive by a group called the Patriot Coalition. A total of 1,719,900 verified signatures in favor were gathered, which met the threshold needed to trigger the election.

Those seeking to oust Newsom from office are unhappy with a slew of issues and policies in the state, including Newsoms handing the CCP virus pandemic. Business owners and parents have expressed disapproval over prolonged restrictions on businesses and shutdowns on in-person schooling. Others had been frustrated with mask and vaccination mandates, which Newsom has returned to embracing amid the spread of the more contagious Delta variant. Some also cite the time when Newsom attended a gathering at a Michelin-starred restaurant while telling Californians to stay home in late 2020.

Elder and other leading Republican candidates all say they would undo mask and vaccine mandates in favor of recommendations for communities to self-implement.

Residents have also expressed disapproval over Newsoms handling of the economy. The state has some of the highest taxes in the nation and a homelessness problem that is spiraling out of control.

On June 23, an investigative report by CapRadio showed that Newsom had misled the public about his wildfire prevention efforts. The report concluded that Newsom had overstated by 690 percent the number of acres treated with firebreaks and prescribed burns. Newsom said fire prevention work was conducted on 90,000 acres, but the states own figures say the number was 11,399, according to the report.

Other prominent Democrats have also thrown their support behind Newsom against the recall, with Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) having campaigned with Newsom last weekend.

Former President Barack Obama released an ad on Wednesday that focused on Newsoms actions amid the CCP virus pandemic. It urged residents to vote no on what it said was a partisan recall effort.

Governor Newsom has spent the last year and a half protecting California communities. Now Republicans are trying to recall him from office and overturn common sense COVID safety measures for healthcare workers and school staff, Obama said in the video.

An Emerson College poll in March found that 58 percent of Democrat and 55 percent of Independent voters would be open to another Democratic candidate besides Newsom.

President Joe Biden is also expected to campaign for the governor in California before the election.

Meanwhile, billionaire donor George Soros has given $1 million to a group called Stop the Republican Recall of Governor Newsom.

This is the second recall election in Californias history. The first recall election was in 2003, when Gov. Gray Davis, a Democrat, was replaced with Arnold Schwarzenegger, who ran as a Republican.

Ivan Pentchoukov and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Simon Leung Kam-wai (C) a committee member of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, is escorted by police during an investigation of the June 4th Museum in Hong Kong. (Kin Cheung/AP photo)

Hong Kong Activists Plead Guilty Over Unauthorized Vigil

HONG KONGA dozen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty Thursday to participating in an unauthorized candlelight vigil to mark Beijings bloody crackdown in Tiananmen Square.

The 12 were charged with participating in the unauthorized assembly in Victoria Park on June 4 last year, when thousands of Hong Kongers turned up to light candles and sing songs despite police warnings that they may be breaking the law. Seven of the 12 were also charged with inciting others to take part in the assembly.

Authorities have banned the vigils for the past two years, citing public health risks due to the pandemic, although critics believe the ban is part of an ongoing crackdown on dissent following months of protests against the regime in 2019.

Prior to the ban, the candlelight vigil event held on June 4 every year was attended by massive crowds and was the only large-scale public commemoration on Chinese soil of the 1989 crackdown in Beijing.

Those who pleaded guilty on Thursday include lawyer Albert Ho, former lawmaker Eddie Chu and Figo Chan, a former leader of the Civil Human Rights Front which was known for organizing large-scale pro-democracy rallies in the city.

The 12 are expected to enter mitigation pleas. They face up to five years in prison.

People hold candles and walk past police officers near Victoria Park, a place in the past years for people to gather during a candlelight vigil to mark the anniversary of the massacre of a pro-democracy student movement in Beijing, in Hong Kong, on June 4, 2021. (Vincent Yu/AP Photo)

They are part of a larger group of activists who were arrested over the June 4 assembly. Some of them, including jailed Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai, have pleaded not guilty.

Prominent activist Joshua Wong and three others who were also charged over the June 4 vigil had previously pleaded guilty in April and were given prison sentences of between 4 to 10 months.

Separately, national security police on Thursday raided the closed June 4 museum in Hong Kong, a day after four core members of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China were arrested.

The alliance organizes the annual June 4 vigil and runs the museum each year.

This years museum was closed three days after it opened to visitors following an investigation by authorities over its lack of appropriate licenses. The alliance was later fined 8,000 Hong Kong dollars ($1,000).

Hong Kong authorities have cracked down on dissent over the past year, after Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law in response to months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Dozens of pro-democracy activists have been arrested and the city has amended electoral laws to increase the number of seats for pro-Beijing legislators while reducing those that are directly elected.

Critics say the national security law, which has been used to arrest more than 100 people, rolls back freedoms promised to the former British colony when it was handed over to China in 1997. Hong Kong had been promised it could maintain freedoms not found in the mainland for 50 years, such as freedom of speech and assembly.
Police collect a cut out of the Goddess of Democracy at the June 4th Museum, which commemorates the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, as they search the museum after arresting four members of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements in China, in Hong Kong, China, on Sept. 9, 2021. (Tyrone Siu/Reuters)

Hong Kong Police Raid Museum Commemorating 1989 Tiananmen Victims

HONG KONGHong Kong police on Thursday raided the premises of the closed June 4th Museum that is dedicated to the victims of the 1989 crackdown by the Chinese communist regime on pro-democracy protesters in and around Beijings Tiananmen Square.

The raid came hours after a dozen pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty of knowingly participating in an unauthorized assembly during last years June 4 anniversary, when rallies were banned by police, citing the coronavirus.

The 2021 vigil was banned for similar reasons.

The reason for the raid was unclear. Police did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Officers were seen loading a truck with cardboard, including one with the museums logo and another carrying a picture of a lit candle.

On Wednesday, police arrested four members of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements in China, the group that organizes the annual rallies, including vice-chairwoman Chow Hang Tung.

Police sent a letter to the alliance in August requesting information about its membership, finances, and activities by Sept. 7, according to a copy the group sent to reporters.

A view shows June 4th Museum, run by the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, in Hong Kong, China, on Sept. 5, 2021. (Tyrone Siu/Reuters)

The letter accused the alliance of being an agent of foreign forces. The group said it would not provide the information requested. Wednesdays arrests were for failing to comply with national security law requirements.

In August, the group said the museum, which closed on June 2 due to an investigation by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department into its licensing, reopened online as 8964 Museum. The online museum operates independently from the alliance, it said.

Alliance leaders Albert Ho and Lee Cheuk-yan are already in jail over their roles in protests against the Chinese communist regime that roiled the city in 2019.

The former British colony, which returned to Chinese rule in 1997 with a promise that its wide-ranging freedoms would remain intact, traditionally holds the largest June 4 vigil to commemorate the victims of the crackdown.

Mainland China bans commemorations and heavily censors the topic. The Chinese communist regime has never provided a full account of the 1989 crackdown. The death toll given by officials days later was about 300, most of them soldiers, but rights groups and witnesses say thousands of people may have been killed.

Hong Kong authorities have repeatedly denied curbing human rights and freedoms in the city, and say law enforcement has been based on evidence and has nothing to do with the background, profession, or political beliefs of those arrested.

By Jessie Pang
Wooden hearts with the names of victims are erected alongside the photos, flowers and other memorial items for victims of the Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside, Fla., in a file photo. (Carl Juste/Miami Herald/TNS)

Identities of Surfside Condo Collapse Victims Stolen; Suspects Arrested

MIAMIAuthorities have arrested several people suspected of stealing the identities of victims killed in the Surfside condo collapse, officials said Wednesday.

Investigators believe the ring stole the identifies of at least five victimsthree dead, two survivorsto open up credit cards and make fraudulent purchases.

Arrested were Betsy Alexandra Cacho Medina, 30; Rodney Choute, 38; and Kimberly Michelle Johnson, 34. They are being charged with organized scheme to defraud and multiple counts of identity fraud.

Law enforcement officials are expected to detail the investigation later Wednesday at a news conference at the Miami-Dade State Attorneys Office. The probe was conducted by detectives from Surfside, Aventura and Miami-Dade, as well as investigators from the U.S. Marshals, the U.S. Secret Service, and the Postal Inspectors.

The development comes more than two months after Champlain Towers South suddenly collapsed in the middle of the night, killing 98 people in one of the worst building failures in U.S. history. The cause of the June 24 collapse remains under federal and state investigation, although experts have pointed out that there appeared to be flaws in the structural integrity and design of the building.

About a month after the collapse, relatives of the dead began reporting that thieves were taking out credit cards in the names of their loved ones.

The sister of one victim killed in the Surfside condo collapse told the Miami Herald in July that she first noticed strange emails popping up on her sisters iPad the night before the funeral. The emails detailed password changes to bank accounts and credit cards, new addresses and contact information, withdrawals and expensive purchases.

I was home writing the eulogy. I dont know why, but I looked down. I saw notifications from Wells Fargo. I saw emails with money transfers. I didnt even know she had a Wells Fargo account, she said. It was crazy. These people are professional. Who would do something like this?

2021 Miami Herald. Visit miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson speaks on his plan to raise taxes during a news conference in Downing Street in London, on Sept. 7, 2021. (Toby Melville-WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Johnsons Tax Boost Triggers Soul Searching Among UK Conservatives

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has secured Parliaments backing for his manifesto-breaking tax hike, but the move has also led to some fundamental questions about what the Conservative Party stands for in todays Britain.

On Wednesday, the House of Commons voted by 319 to 248 in favour of the 1.25 percentage point increase in national insurance contributions despite deep unhappiness among many Conservative MPs.

Five Conservative backbenchers voted against the measure while another 37 did not vote, although not all would have deliberately abstained, as some would have had permission to be away from Westminster.

Johnson said the 12 billion ($17 billion) tax hike was needed to reform social care funding and to help the National Health Service (NHS) clear the backlog caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic.

The move goes against a pledge Johnson personally made in the Conservative Partys election manifesto in 2019, in which he promised not to raise income tax, VAT, or national insurance.

In the debate preceding the vote, Tory MP Jake Berry, who abstained from voting, warned that it was a levy that would never go down and could only go up.

It is fundamentally un-Conservative and in the long term it will massively damage the prospects of our party because we will never outbid the Labour Party in the arms race of an NHS tax, he said.

Steve Baker, another Conservative MP who deliberately abstained, said his party is in a dreadful position and must rediscover what it stands for in an age of the ever-expanding welfare state.

I believe that this is just the beginning of a generational crisis of our inability to fund the promises that have been made progressively for 100 years since the 1911 National Insurance Act, he told Parliament.

Now the Conservative Party, at some stage in our lifetimes, is going to have to rediscover what it stands for because I have to say at the moment we keep doing things we hate, because we feel we must.

We are going to have to do things differently, were going to have to rediscover our confidence as free-market Conservatives, he said, adding that the party must show people that we can secure a bright and prosperous and free future which provides for their needs in old age, but do it without every time theres a squeeze on the public finances coming back for higher taxes, because down that road there is ruin.

We all know that eventually, as a socialist, you run out of other peoples money, he said.

In a bizarre reversal of their traditional positions, the Conservative government attacked the opposition Labour party for voting against the tax rise.

They have voted against crucial funding to tackle COVID backlogs in our hospitals and capping care costs for the elderly and vulnerable, all while offering no plan of their own, said Conservative Party co-chairman Amanda Milling.

Labour argued that funding the scheme through increasing National Insurance was unfair and a tax on jobs and that it would not end the need for people to sell their homes to meet the costs of social care.

Allister Heath, editor of the conservative newspaper The Sunday Telegraph, said Johnsons government is no longer Thatcherite, or even conservative: it is Blue Labour.

This is a seminal moment in British politics and will cause immense and long-lasting damage, he wrote in an op-ed.

Promising not to raise or to cut taxes was always the one weapon Labour couldnt match, the most powerful way to remind voters that the socialists would steal their money; now any such pledge would remind voters that the Tories are utterly untrustworthy.

PA contributed to this report.
Judge Tosses Minneapolis Policing Ballot Language

A Hennepin County judge tossed proposal ballot language asking voters if they want to replace the Minneapolis Police Department with a department of public safety.

The current language of the city councils explanatory note accompanying the ballot proposal is insufficient to identify the amendment clearly, it does not assist the voter in easily and accurately identifying what is being voted on, and it is vague and ambiguous to the point of misleading voters, all of which make it unjust, Hennepin County Judge Jamie Anderson wrote.

Bruce Dachis, Sondra Samuels, and former City Council Member Don Samuels sued, alleging the explanatory note didnt provide voters with enough context to make an informed decision.

The proposal would ask voters if they want to approve a plan to replace the police department with a new public safety department focused on a comprehensive public safety approach that would include police officers if necessary to fulfill the departments responsibilities.

Anderson wrote that the parties disagreed on three issues of the current ballot language as to whether: 1. The Minneapolis Police Department will cease to exist as of Dec. 2, 2021; 2. The position of police chief would be eliminated; or 3. A funding mechanism exists for the proposed Department of Public Safety.

These three issues are additional ambiguities in the Current Ballot Language, the judge wrote. All of these ambiguities risk creating a chaotic situation in Minneapolis.

Anderson explained:

For example, does striking the Police Department mean renaming it (as the Petitioners suggest it could be interpreted) or taking it apart, as one would strike a set after a play is done? The end of the Current Ballot Language says   to fulfill its responsibilities for public safety. To whose responsibilities does that refer? The Police Department? The new Department of Public Safety?

Anderson did not set a new deadline for approving ballot language.

Attorneys for Yes 4 Minneapolis, which supports replacing the police department, had argued the language provided enough information.

The City Council called an emergency meeting Tuesday and passed revised language for an explanatory note.

City Attorney Jim Rowader said the ballot language could still be rejected by Hennepin County if it finds the new note is substantially similar to the language rejected by Anderson.

By Scott McClallen
Republican gubernatorial candidate Larry Elder speaks to supporters during an Asian Rally for Yes Recall at the Asian Garden Mall in Little Saigon, Westminster, Calif., on Sept. 4, 2021. (Ringo Chiu/AFP via Getty Images)

Larry Elder Responds to Venice Beach Walk-Through Assault, Vows to Save California

Republican gubernatorial candidate Larry Elder on Wednesday vowed to save California shortly after he was forced to prematurely end a walk-through of his planned campaign stop at Venice Beach, when over 10 hecklers harassed him, throwing projectiles.

Elder, who is vying to replace California Gov. Gavin Newsom if he is recalled this month, was touring Venice Beachs homeless encampments with campaign team members when he was harassed.

Footage of the incident uploaded to social media shows two hecklers repeatedly shouting racial slurs at Elder. A lady in a pink gorilla mask, riding a bike, appeared on video throwing an egg that appeared to narrowly miss Elders head.

One of Elders security staff attempted to separate the woman from the crowd, to keep her from continuing to throw projectiles.

In videos surfacing on Twitter, the woman slapped the security staff in the face. Another protester hit the same security staff member seconds later.

A white SUV drove up to the crowd, which was walking down Hampton Drive towards Sunset Avenue.

Elders team escorted him to his vehicle and drove away.

Today I kicked off the Recall Express bus tour. Before we even left Los Angeles, my security detail was physically assaulted, shot with a pellet gun, and hit with projectiles. The intolerant left will not stop us. We will recall Gavin Newsom. We will save California, Elder said in a statement on Twitter late Wednesday, responding to the attacks.

Elder, 69, is an Epoch Times contributor and host of Larry Elder with Epoch Times on EpochTV.

The conservative talk radio host first announced in July that he will run in Californias recall election of Democratic Gov. Newsom, which has been set for Sept. 14.

He said in a statement on his campaign website that hes running for governor because the decline of California isnt the fault of its people, adding: Our government is whats ruining the Golden State.

On his website, Elder calls for returning to the bedrock Constitutional principles of limited government and maximum personal responsibility.

Other top Republican candidates include businessman John Cox, former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, and state Rep. Kevin Kiley. Nine Democrats are running, including financial analyst Kevin Paffrath and actor Patrick Kilpatrick.

The recall election of Newsom, a first-term Democrat, follows mounting criticism from within his party and across the aisle over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other issues.

He faced intense backlash after he was seen dining at the French Laundry restaurant with lobbyists after telling Californians to stay home. Newsom apologized for his actions.

The last time a governor was recalled in the state was Gray Davis in 2003. Residents voted Yes on recalling Davis by 55.4 percent and selected one of 135 candidates on the ballot to replace him.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, California is one of 19 states where recalls are permitted.

Last month, President Joe Biden publicly backed Newsom, saying in a statement that he the Democratic governor is leading California through unprecedented criseshes a key partner in fighting the pandemic and helping build our economy back better.

To keep him on the job, registered voters should vote no on the recall election by 9/14 and keep California moving forward, Biden added.

The California Republican Party has declined to endorse a candidate, however, several recent polls show that Elder is in the lead.

Jack Bradley contributed to this report.
A nurse prepares a Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccination as part of a vaccine drive by the Fernandeno Tataviam Band of Mission Indians in Arleta, Los Angeles, Calif., on Aug. 23, 2021. (Lucy Nicholson/Reuters)

LAUSD Board To Consider COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate For Students

LOS ANGELESAll eligible students aged 12 and over in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) would be required to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend in-person classes under a proposal going before the districts Board of Education on Sept. 9.

The board has called a special meeting for 2 p.m. Thursday to consider the mandate. According to the agenda, the proposal would require COVID-19 vaccinations for all students who access in-person instructional programs operated on district facilities, who are 12 years of age and older.

People under age 12 are ineligible for COVID vaccines, since none of the currently available vaccinations have been approved for use in that age group. The Pfizer vaccine is approved on an emergency use basis for people aged 12-15, and it has full authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for people 16 and over.

According to the county Department of Public Health, 60.8 percent of residents aged 12-15 in Los Angeles County have received at least one dose of vaccine as of Sept. 2. Details about the districts proposed student vaccine mandateincluding a planned start date for the requirementwere not immediately available.

United Teachers Los Angeles, the union representing LAUSD teachers, recently announced its support for a vaccine mandate for students. The district already requires weekly COVID testing for students and employees, regardless of their vaccination status.

All district employees must be fully vaccinated by Oct. 15.

The Los Angeles Times reported Wednesday that a majority of LAUSD board members either favor a mandate or are leaning toward favoring such a requirement. School board president Kelly Gonez told the paper a mandate would be a wise step to take within a reasonable timeline. She said the effective date of such a requirement would depend on factors such as conducting outreach to families.

According to The Times, board member Jackie Goldberg is in full support of a vaccine mandate for students, while members Nick Melvoin, Scott Schmerelson, and George McKenna said they are willing to consider a mandate while following the advice of health experts. County Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer has repeatedly called increased vaccination rates the only way to end the COVID pandemic.

The Culver City Unified School District has approved a vaccine mandate for students, although it will not take effect until November in anticipation of a vaccine receiving full FDA authorization for use in those aged 12-15.
Lawyer Whose Son and Wife Were Killed Has Law License Suspended

COLUMBIA, S.C.The South Carolina Supreme Court indefinitely suspended the law license of prominent attorney Alex Murdaugh on Wednesday, two days after his law firm said he took money from the business.

The one-page order by Chief Justice Don Beatty said he acted at the request of the Office of Disciplinary Counsel, which investigates misconduct by attorneys in South Carolina. The order said Murdaugh agreed with the interim suspension, but it gave no further details.

Murdaugh found the bodies of his wife and son, shot multiple times, at the familys Colleton County home on June 7. On Saturday, he told police someone shot at him as he changed a tire on the side of a rural road. A family attorney has suggested someone cut the tire before Murdaugh left. State police havent commented on the shooting.

Agents said Murdaugh was grazed by the bullet. He was released from the hospital two days later and said he had gone into rehab because the murders of my wife and son have caused an incredibly difficult time in my life. I have made a lot of decisions that I truly regret.

Hours after Murdaugh issued his statement, the PMPED law firm released its own information saying Murdaugh had misappropriated an unspecified amount of money and would no longer be associated with the firm.

The State Law Enforcement Division is investigating all of this. No one has been charged in the killings of Maggie Murdaugh, 52, and her 22-year-old son Paul in June or in the shooting involving Alex Murdaugh on Saturday. Agents have not spoken about the allegations of missing money.

The Murdaughs are one of South Carolinas most prominent legal families. Alex Murdaugh was a volunteer prosecutor in the same office where his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather spent more than 80 years combined as the areas top prosecutors. Other members of the family are prominent civil attorneys.

When Paul Murdaugh was killed, he was awaiting trial for boating under the influence causing death in a February 2019 crash that killed a 19-year-old woman. State police have said they have since begun looking into the investigation of that crash to see if anyone tried to keep police from charging Paul Murdaugh.

After the deaths of Maggie and Paul Murdaugh, state police also reopened an investigation into a 2015 hit-and-run death of a 19-year-old man in Hampton County. The victims mother said she thought Paul Murdaugh could have been involved.

Authorities havent released any information about why those cases were reopened.

By Jeffrey Collins
Major Parties Election Platforms Need More Focus on Beijings Influence to Reflect Canadians Concerns: Experts

The 2021 election platforms released by the major federal parties have not adequately addressed the threat the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) poses to Canada, reflecting a lack of understanding of CCPs true nature, experts warn.

In a virtual press conference held Sept. 8, experts urged the next federal government to take a more hardline approach toward China in order to better reflect the wishes of the majority of Canadians. A recent Nanos Research survey (pdf) found that two-thirds of Canadians want the federal government to be more forceful in its relations with China.

Gloria Fung, president of Canada-Hong Kong Link, said the Conservative Party platform offers the most comprehensive discussion on foreign policy and national security issues related to defending Canada against CCP interference. The Liberals platform has a brief description on combating authoritarianism and foreign interference, while there havent been any China-related policy announcements from the Peoples Party of Canada, the Bloc Quebecois, or the Green Party.

(Clockwise) Gloria Fung, president of Canada-Hong Kong Link, Henry Chan, co-ordinator of Saskatchewan Stands with Hong Kong, and Charles Burton, senior fellow at MacDonald Laurier Institute, speak at a virtual press conference on a Nanos Research poll that shows two-thirds of respondents support the next Canadian government to take more forceful approach towards China, on Sept. 8, 2021. (Screenshot/The Epoch Times)

Fung said the lack of emphasis on the issue reflects that a lot of our federal parties are still inexperienced and lacking knowledge in understanding the true nature of the Chinese Communist Party.

Over the past few decades  our Canadian government, no matter which government was in power, we have been adopting the so-called silent diplomacy and also engagement and in dealing with China, thinking that by doing so, China will gradually become more and more liberal and also a more democratic society, Fung told reporters.

This assumption has proven to be wrong, because we have given the Chinese Communist Party the opportunity to emerge as an important economic power in the world, and they start to adopt a very aggressive approach by means of both sharp power and soft power in infiltrating, manipulating, and intimidating citizens of other countries while they exercise their freedom of expression.

Fung said another assumption held by some parties is that criticizing Beijing would offend voters from Chinese communities, and, fuelled by potential provocation from Chinese consulates and the CCPs United Front organizations, the Chinese nationalistic sentiment would prompt Chinese-Canadians to attack and criticize any politician, any party that is critical towards China.

Important to Change Approach

Charles Burton, senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and a former counsellor at the Canadian Embassy in China, said its really regrettable that foreign policy hasnt been a focus in this election and isnt a topic slated for discussion in the leaders debates.

Burton said the results of the Nanos poll really highlights the concerns of Canadians with regard to the malign activities of China, and the government must have policies in place to reflect that.

Its important that we change our approach to one of working with like-minded allies to come up with a common front to try and ensure that China gets into compliance with international norms of diplomacy and trade, Burton said at the press conference.

China has taken a hostile stance toward Canada since Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Vancouver on a U.S. extradition request in December 2018. Shortly after Mengs arrest, Beijing arbitrarily detained Canadian citizens Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, sentenced Canadian citizen Robert Schellenberg to death on drug charges, and blocked the import of Canadian agricultural products.

The Nanos poll surveyed Canadians on a variety of issues pertaining to Canada-China relations, including the impact of a federal partys position on China on Canadian voters ballot choices and support for government actions related to China.

The poll found that 88 percent of respondents support or somewhat support the federal government in establishing a Canadian version of the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act, which requires anyone working on behalf of a foreign government to register as a foreign agent.

Burton said this kind of legislation would require individuals who have influence in a national policymaking process to declare whether they are recipients of monetary or other benefits from a foreign regime, which would be key to countering the CCPs soft-power attempts to target Canadian policymakers through its United Front Work Department.

In addition to attempting to influence and control persons of Chinese origin in Canada, or Canadians of Tibetan and Uyghur origins, or the students in Canada under the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, the United Front Work Department also has a mandate to try and engage with people who have influence in the Canadian policy process, who would be amenable to benefits from China, he said.

Its pretty clear that once you start receiving benefits from China, there is an expectation that the Canadian will support Chinese purposes in Canada.

The Nanos poll showed only 4 percent of Canadians supported a less forceful approach to relations with China, while 63 percent said Canada should be more forceful. Another 24 percent say Canadas current approach is about right, while 9 percent are unsure.

Regarding the upcoming federal election, 45 percent of respondents said they are more likely to vote for a party that has a stronger stance against China, while only 4 percent are less likely. Residents in the Prairies are most likely (52.5 percent) to vote for a party with a stronger stance, followed by British Columbia (46.8 percent), Ontario (46.4 percent), Quebec (38.2 percent), and the Atlantic provinces (29.6 percent).

The Nanos Research poll was commissioned by a group of organizations including Canada-Hong Kong Link, Saskatchewan Stands with Hong Kong, Vancouver Society in Support of Democratic Movement, and Vancouver Hong Kong Forum Society. A hybrid telephone and online survey of 1,029 Canadians was conducted between Aug. 28 and 30, 2021, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
Mexico's Supreme Court member Arturo Zaldiva is seen in a file photograph. (Yuri Cortez/AFP via Getty Images)

Mexicos Supreme Court Decriminalizes Abortion

Mexicos supreme court on Tuesday decriminalized abortion, ruling that punishing the act runs against the countrys constitution.

From now on, you will not be able to, without violating the courts criteria and the constitution, charge any woman who aborts under the circumstances this court has ruled as valid, Arturo Zaldivar, president of the National Supreme Court of Justice, said after the ruling.

Those circumstances will be clarified when the decision is published, but everything points to that referring to abortions carried out within the first 12 weeks of a pregnancy, the period allowed in the four states where abortion is already legal.

More than a million abortions are done each year in Mexico but most outside of Mexico City, where first-trimester abortion was decriminalized years ago, are done clandestinely, according to the pro-abortion Guttmacher Institute.

Abortion has been a crime in Mexico since at least 1931, according to Human Rights Watch. Federal law made abortion punishable by as many as six years in prison, with women ending their pregnancy and doctors carrying out the procedure both being liable for charges.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador later said the decision, which came from 10 judges with the 11th absent, should be respected.

The judges annulled several provisions of a law from Coahuila, a state that shares a border with Texas.

Coahuilas government said in a statement that the ruling would have a retroactive effect and ordered the release of any women who were jailed for abortion.

The ruling came less than a week after one of the strictest anti-abortion laws in the United States went into effect in Texas. That law prohibits abortions done without an attempt to detect a fetal heartbeat, and bars abortions outside of medical emergencies if a heartbeat is detected.

The Mexico ruling drew praise from groups that support abortion, including the International Planned Parenthood Federation and GIRE, which called it a historic ruling.

The countrys highest court reaffirmed reproductive autonomy, GIRE said in a statement.

Others condemned the decision, including the Catholic Church of Mexico.

Bishop Rogelio Cabrera Lopez, the president of the church, and two other bishops lamented how the court appeared to ignore the life of unborn children in its ruling.

The courts resolution makes a dangerous and disproportionate contrast between the content and limits of what it calls the right of women to decide versus the constitutional protection of the unborn,' the bishops wrote.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
A young migrant waits for his turn to take a shower at the Department of Homeland Security holding facility in Donna, Texas, on March 30, 2021. (Dario Lopez-Mills/Pool/Getty Images)

Michigan Mayor Withdraws Recusal, Urges Approval of Resettlement Facility for Illegal Alien Teens

ALMA, Mich.Mayor Greg Mapes sent a letter on Sept. 7 to the Alma, Michigan, city commission requesting to undo his recusal from voting on and discussing a controversial plan to turn a former nursing home owned by Masonic Pathways into a resettlement center for unaccompanied alien minors.

Mapes, a longtime Mason, is an outspoken advocate on behalf of the project.

Mapess renewed desire to vote on a required conditional rezoning of the six-acre property may be in direct conflict with the opinion of City Attorney Tony Costanzo.

In a July 19 letter to Alma Zoning Administrator Aeric Ripley, Costanzo acknowledged Mapess full disclosure of his 40-year history with the Masons and recognized his past service on the organizations board.

Costanzo then opined that, according to criteria laid out in the planning commission by-laws, Mapes has neither a financial nor business interest in this request for conditional rezoning.

However, Costanzo said that, pursuant to another section of the planning commission by-laws, the fact that the issue of conflict of interest was brought up in a public hearing, and in view of Mapess long history with the Masons, I believe that his connection with the Masons is involved enough that it may raise a reasonable appearance of conflict of interest.

Pursuant to that section of the by-laws, Costanzo said the planning commission has only two options in such a situation: either Mapes voluntarily recuse himself, or the planning commission must vote individually as to whether he could vote on the issue, or even contribute to the discussion.

On Aug. 4, the planning commission voted 42 to reject the rezoning request and recommended to the city commission to do the same.

Mapes, a member of the planning commission and the presiding officer of the city commission, had earlier recused himself and did not vote on the proposal or attend the Aug. 4 meeting.

Under Michigan law, the city commission has the final say in such matters.

The planning commission has never voted on Mapes eligibility to vote on the issue.

In his Sept. 7 letter to the city commission, and in an open letter to Alma city residents published the same day in the local newspaper The Morning Sun, Mapes said he recused himself because of the mishandling by the planning commission of his disclosure that he was a lifelong Mason.

Mapes denied his recusal was due to any conflict of interest.

I was confident then, and remain so now, that I have the ability to judge the request upon its merits irrespective of any personal associations that I may have, Mapes wrote in his letter to the city commission.

The mayors about-face regarding his recusal drew immediate criticism from citizens groups opposed to the proposal.

Robi Rodrigues of Citizens Against said in a Facebook post, Greg threw the planning commission under the bus.

Rodrigues told The Epoch Times, The powers that be are pulling out all the stops. Its disgraceful.

Masonic Pathways is a fraternal, philanthropic, nonprofit organization that owns additional real estate in Alma.

The nonprofit Bethany Christian Services is the proposed tenant for the former nursing home and would operate the resettlement center.

Nate Bult of Bethany Christian Services wrote in an email to The Epoch Times, If approved, the small-group home in Alma would have a capacity to care for up to 36 unaccompanied children at a time.

Bult said the residents of the home would likely stay in the Alma facility for 30 to 45 days.

Contingent upon the approval of the rezoning request, Bethany Christian Services would pay Masonic Pathways $385,000 a year in rent for the facility.

Mapess contention that he had no conflict of interest sparked skepticism from Rachel Marcero, a spokesperson for the group US Against Media, a Lansing-based organization opposed to open borders and projects such as the Alma resettlement center.

Marcero told The Epoch Times: Mapes has a definite conflict of interest. He should not be allowed to squirm his way back into voting on the issue.

Marcero characterized Mapess maneuver as a desperate effort to try and tip the vote of the city commission in favor of overruling the planning commissions recommendation to reject the proposal.

He might just be the deciding vote, Marcero said. Its just another power play like the letter of intimidation sent to the city commission by the Michigan Civil Rights Commission. From no less than the director himself.

Marcero was referring to an Aug. 9 letter from John Johnson, executive director of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, in which Johnson stated: As part of our process and before any determination is made, the City of Alma would be provided with the opportunity to defend its denial of the rezoning request.

We want to ensure that the City of Alma has fully considered the possible civil rights implications of the rezoning request with counsel before making a final determination.

Attorney Dave Kallman of the Great Lakes Justice Center described the letter as a not-so-veiled threat, coming before any final decision has been made.

Kallman told The Epoch Times that the message being sent is, If we dont get the right outcome, you can expect us to come down on you.

In a phone interview with The Epoch Times, City Attorney Tony Costanzo called it a not-so-friendly letter.

According to Ripley, the city commission is expected to bring the issue to a straight up or down vote on Sept. 14.

The commission chambers wont hold the crowd we anticipate, so we are having the meeting in the high school auditorium, Ripley told The Epoch Times.

Costanzo told The Epoch Times that, after his discussion with Mapes on Sept. 9, Mapes told him he had decided that he would be at the Sept. 14 city commission meeting and would participate, business as usual, except he would not be voting on Masonic Pathways conditional rezoning request.

Mapes didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
Moderna Working on Combining COVID-19 Booster and Flu Shot

Moderna announced Thursday that it had begun developing a possible vaccine that combines a COVID-19 dose and a seasonal influenza shot.

Today we are announcing the first step in our novel respiratory vaccine program with the development of a single-dose vaccine that combines a booster against COVID-19 and a booster against flu, Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel said in a news release.

A timeline for the research, development, and release of the combined vaccine was not provided by the firm.

Despite the lack of details, the companys stock price jumped by more than 7 percent when it made the announcement.

Bancel said during a presentation Thursday that it is a large opportunity for Moderna to bring to market a high efficacy pan-respiratory annual booster. He added, We believe Moderna could be first to market in this important new opportunity.

Earlier this month, Moderna petitioned the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve its third dose, known as a booster, of the COVID-19 vaccine. The booster would be administered six months after a person receives their second dose of the mRNA vaccine.

While the United States is slated to start rolling out boosters and has set a Sept. 20 date, the World Health Organizations director, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, called for a moratorium on boosters until the end of this year.

We have been calling for vaccine equity from the beginning, not after the richest countries have been taken care of, Tedros said at a Wednesday news conference, sharply criticizing the United States and other countries that are deploying and developing boosters. I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the worlds poor should be satisfied with leftovers.

The FDA, meanwhile, granted Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine full approval, while Modernas vaccine is still being administered via emergency use authorization.

Moderna isnt the only firm that is attempting to combine a COVID-19 and influenza vaccine. This week, pharmaceutical firm Novavax started a clinical trial in Australia of its own shot, with results expected to be released next year.

Over the past several weeks, Japanese officials have raised questions about Modernas vaccine after finding metallic particles in a batch of its COVID-19 vaccines. Three individuals who received the vaccine died after receiving the vaccine, the Japanese Ministry of Health has said, although the causes of their deaths are under investigation.

COVID-19 is the illness caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

Reuters contributed to this report.
President Joe Biden speaks in the East Room of the White House on Sept. 8, 2021. (Evan Vucci/AP Photo)

Biden Mandates COVID-19 Vaccines for Federal Workers

President Joe Biden on Thursday mandated federal workers get a COVID-19 vaccine.

The new executive order removes the option for workers and contractors to choose not to get vaccinated unless they apply for a religious or medical exemption.

Previously, workers could choose not to get vaccinated for any reason. However, those workers, and contractors, were required to wear masks, get tested regularly for the virus, and social distance.

Federal workers will have approximately 75 days to become fully vaccinated from Sept. 9.

If a federal worker fails to comply, they will go through the standard [human resources] process, which includes counseling, and face disciplinary action, face progressive disciplinary action. Each agency is going to work with employees to make sure they understand the benefits of vaccination, and how the vaccines are free, easy, and widely accessible. But it will start to be applied once the executive order is signed, White House press secretary Jen Psaki told reporters in Washington.

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

Several federal agencies have already mandated a COVID-19 vaccine, including the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Pentagon.

Three vaccines are being administered in the United States. Two, from Moderna and Johnson & Johnson, are being administered under emergency use authorization. The third, from Pfizer, is technically approved, but doses under the approval have yet to become available.

Everett Kelley, the president of the American Federation of Government Employees, which describes itself as the largest federal employee union, representing 700,000 federal and D.C. government workers nationwide, said in an emailed statement that the union supports members getting a COVID-19 vaccine but that changes like those in the order should be negotiated with our bargaining units where appropriate because workers deserve a voice in their working conditions.

Neither of these positions has changed. We expect to bargain over this change prior to implementation, and we urge everyone who is able to get vaccinated as soon as they can do so, Kelley said.

Biden said in remarks from Washington that If you want to work with the federal government and do business with us, get vaccinated, adding, If you want to do business with the federal government, vaccinate your workforce.
NYPD Officer Saves Man, 60, Who Collapsed onto Subway Tracks Seconds Before Train Arrives

A New York City transit officer leapt to help a commuter who had collapsed and fallen onto the subway tracks just moments before a train pulled into the station. With the help of his colleagues and a good Samaritan, the officer lifted the half-conscious man to safety in the nick of time.

On Aug. 19, New York Police posted cellphone footage on Facebook, showing the white-knuckle rescueoccurring a day earlier at 149th Street and 3rd Avenue subway platform in South Bronx.

NYPD cops help New Yorkers at any cost! they captioned. When a sick strap hanger lost consciousness and fell on the subway tracks in the Bronx, transit officers didnt hesitate for a moment to put his safety ahead of their own.

Officer Ludin Lopez is shown hopping onto the tracks to help, followed by a male bystander. In the footage, a crowd of onlookers urge them to hurry, while another officer waves his flashlight toward the train in an effort to signal trouble.

Cheers are heard as Lopez, the bystander, and the fallen man all make it back safely onto the platform. Officer Catherine Cabon-Bailon is seen grabbing Lopez by his shirt to assist him up just seconds before the train pulls into the station.

The footage was viewed almost half a million times on Facebook alone.

(Courtesy of NYPD)

[The train] was literally one minute away, Lopez told CBS New York. I just saw somebody who needed my help and I reacted. I wasnt even thinking.

The fallen man was described as a 60-year-old man from Queens, whom Lopez said was completely out of it. The flagging commuter was taken to Lincoln Hospital for assessment, by then, conscious and alert.

Kathleen OReilly, NYPDs chief of transit, later confirmed on Twitter that four officers were involved in the rescue; Officers Peguero and Sugrim also participated. All of whom worked as a team to flag the train and get the man to safety, she posted. Thank you to everyone who assisted!

Lopez and his partner had been performing a station inspection when the man collapsed. The officer claimed it was a case of right place, right time, and said the crowds supportive response gave him a good feeling.

We just did what we were there to do, which is to help and serve the public, Lopez added. It just made me feel like this is what I came here to do, and I felt very fulfilled by that.

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
Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Army General Mark Milley (R) hold a press briefing about the U.S. military drawdown in Afghanistan, at the Pentagon in Washington, on Sept. 1, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Pentagon Leaders to Testify on US Pullout From Afghanistan

Top U.S. military leaders will answer questions from senators about the U.S. pullout from Afghanistan, which left behind Americans who may number in the hundreds.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin will testify before the Senate Armed Forces Committee later this month, the top Democrat and Republican on the panel announced on Sept. 9.

Gen. Mark Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Gen. Frank McKenzie, the head of U.S. Central Command, are also slated to appear before the panel on Sept. 28.

Also announced was a closed-door briefing on Sept. 15 with Gen. Austin Scott Miller, former commander of U.S. ForcesAfghanistan, and a Sept. 30 review of U.S. military operations in Afghanistan, during which senators will hear from outside experts.

Although we have completed the withdrawal of American military personnel and over 100,000 civilians from Afghanistan, I remain deeply concerned about the events that accompanied our withdrawal and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. It is the duty of Congressand the Senate Armed Services Committee in particularto hold hearings to learn lessons from the situation in Afghanistan and ensure accountability at the highest levels, Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.), the chairman of the panel, said in a statement.

The Committee will hold a series of hearings to examine the factors and decisions that manifested over four presidential administrations of both political parties to shape the outcome we now face in Afghanistan.

Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), ranking Republican committee member, said the hearings would be the first of many to review and determine what happened, who should be held accountable, and how we move forward.

The American people, our service members past and present, our allies and partners around the world, and the Afghans who bravely helped us deserve this transparency and accountability, he added.

A U.S. Air Force aircraft takes off from the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Aug. 30, 2021. (Aamir Qureshi/AFP via Getty Images)

The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan was set into motion by then-President Donald Trump. But the Biden administration extended the withdrawal deadline and has been widely criticized for how it handled the pullout.

Critics focus on several major pieces: how Americans were left behind when the last U.S. troops left on Aug. 30; how 13 U.S. service members were killed by a suicide bombing attack while helping evacuate Americans and others; and why the evacuations were so chaotic, especially with regards to forcing Americans to brave Taliban checkpoints to reach the U.S.-held airport in Kabul.

Some Republicans, including committee member Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), have called on administration members to resign, including Austin and Milley. The pair will face questioning from Blackburn and other critics on the panel, including Sens. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Tom Cotton (R-Ark.).

Military leaders in the wake of the withdrawal have largely portrayed it as successful, noting that it was the largest airlift in U.S. history.

Austin on Sept. 1 refused to specify what he thought he or the Pentagon could have done differently.

I would just tell you that there hasnt been a single operation that Ive ever been involved in where we didnt discover that theres something that we couldve done better or more efficiently or more effectively, and Id also say that no operation is ever perfect, he told reporters in Washington.

I will tell you that we will do what we always do, and that is to look at ourselves and do after-action reviews and we want to make sure that we learn every lesson that can be learned from this experience. But I want to take the time to do it the right way. And so well do that in the days ahead.
A man holds a sign that reads "Racism is a Virus" during the "We Are Not Silent" rally against anti-Asian hate in response to recent anti-Asian crime in the Chinatown-International District of Seattle, Washington on March 13, 2021. (Jason Redmond/AFP via Getty Images)

Pro-Beijing Operatives Try to Mobilize Asian Americans to Protest: Report

An expansive pro-Beijing influence operation has sought to sow division around the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus pandemic and incite street protests in the United States, cyber intelligence researchers found.

The network initially began in 2019 focusing on discrediting Hong Kongs pro-democracy protests. The operation has since expanded in size and scope, spanning 30 social media platforms and 40 other websites and online forums in seven languages, according to a Sept. 8 report from U.S. security firm Mandiant Threat Intelligence.

In addition to echoing claims from Chinese state media, the group also made an active effort to get Americans to attend protests against anti-Asian sentiment, in what appears to show the Chinese operatives growing appetite to more directly influence real-world activities before a global audience.

In April, thousands of posts emerged calling on Asian Americans to demonstrate against racial injustice. Some postswritten in languages including Korean, Japanese, and Englishspecifically targeted fugitive businessman Guo Wengui, directing people to an address said to be Guos New York home to demonstrate against virus origin theories promoted by Guo, particularly that the virus was a biological weapon made by the Chinese regime.

The timing of these calls paralleled a rash of reports about anti-Asian hate crimes, which Chinese state media also turned into a propaganda prop to shun U.S. criticism.

While no evidence suggested such attempts were successful, it was an early warning that the actors behind the activity may be starting to explore, in however limited a fashion, more direct means of influencing the domestic affairs of the U.S., the researchers wrote.

Mandiant didnt have proof of involvement from Beijing-controlled bodies, and the pro-Beijing accounts have so far gained little traction on either major social media or niche platforms.

The network instead portrayed the April 24 protest as a success, posting doctored photos from a different rally that took place elsewhere a day earlier.

Rain beads on a sign as community members gather at the Ottawa Womens Monument in Minto Park for a vigil in memory of the victims of the Atlanta spa shootings and to rally against anti-Asian racism, in Ottawa, on Sunday, March 28, 2021. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press)

Its almost like they are being paid by volume, instead of engagement, said Shane Huntley, director of the threat analysis group at Google.

On LiveJournal, a Russian networking service, and Argentine social media site Taringa, the pro-Beijing actors had attempted to cast doubt about the origins of the CCP virus, which causes COVID-19, such as by claiming that the virus came from Fort Detrick, or that the virus had first appeared in the United States and Europe, rather than a lab in the Chinese city Wuhan.

Twitter in June 2020 removed more than 170,000 Beijing-backed accounts that amplified misleading narratives favorable to the Chinese regime, including praising Beijings pandemic response and antagonizing the United States.

Fake accounts have also served to help disseminate rhetoric from Chinese diplomatic accounts, whose number has grown exponentially since 2019. Researchers said that nearly half of all PRC [Peoples Republic of China] account retweets originate from the top 1% of the superspreaders, according to reports released in May.

The posts sometimes have fairly laughable slip-ups, such as calling the novel coronavirus the new crown virus, Huntley noted on Twitter, although he observed the group has been improving its production quality, experimenting with higher resolution videos and better subtitles.

Researchers have also identified similar patterns in posts in other languages, possibly due to them being written by non-native speakers or automatic translation.

Despite the accounts failure in attracting meaningful engagement, the persistence and dedication as they expand their online footprint have been concerning, the researchers said.

Theyve clearly got a wide mandate thats global. Someone is giving them pretty broad orders, said John Hultquist, vice president of intelligence analysis at FireEye, the cybersecurity firm that owns Mandiant.

Reuters contributed to this report.
White House press secretary Jen Psaki holds a press briefing the Brady Press Briefing Room of the White House on July 8, 2021. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Psaki Defends Administrations Move to Oust Trump Appointees From Military Boards

White House press secretary Jen Psaki defended the Biden administrations move to oust several Trump-era appointees from military academy boards.

Were confident in our legal abilities here, Psaki told CNN on Sept. 9, after several of the appointees threatened to file a lawsuit against the administration.

The administration will begin the process of removing 18 appointees of former President Donald Trump who sit on the boards of the Air Force Academy, the Military Academy, and the Naval Academy, she said.

Among those asked to resign were former Trump administration counselor Kellyanne Conway, former Office of Management and Budget Director Russ Vought, and former White House press secretary Sean Spicer, according to the officials, who confirmed on social media and in the press that they were being ousted.

Spicer, who hosts a Newsmax program, said he would file a lawsuit against the administration over his firing.

I will not be submitting my resignation, and I will be joining a lawsuit to fight this, Spicer said on Sept. 8 during his show.

I wont ever question how anyone chooses to serve this country. I wont question how you choose to do that, Jen, Spicer said about his role on the Naval Academy board, while referring to Psaki. But dont you dare minimize or question my service to this nation. You got it?

Spicer was a public affairs officer in the Navy and joined the Navy Reserve in 1999.

On Twitter, Conway wrote that the resignation request was petty and political, if not personal, adding, Im not resigning, but you should.

Vought wrote on Twitter that he would be declining the request and also posted his letter there.

No. Its a three-year term, Vought wrote.

Jonathan Hiler, a Naval Academy alumnus who served as director of legislative affairs for Vice President Mike Pence, said he was not resigning, when he was asked.

As an alum and former naval officer, I believe developing leaders capable of defending our countrys interests at seaUSNAs missionis not something that should be consumed by partisan politics. Apparently, President Biden feels differently. @WhiteHouse, Hiler wrote on Twitter.

In February, the Biden administration removed several Trump appointees from several federal agencies, including the National Capital Planning Commission and the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts.

About two months ago, the administration also removed Andrew Saul, the Trump-appointed commissioner of the Social Security Administration. At the time, Saul said he wouldnt resign but was ultimately ousted.

White House officials didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for additional comment.
Psaki Defends Barring Flights Holding US Citizens From Leaving Afghanistan

White House press secretary Jen Psaki defended the Biden administrations decision to block evacuation flights holding American citizens from departing Afghanistan because they included people who havent been through security protocols.

Were not going to allow flights that have hundreds of people who we dont know who they are, who havent been through security protocols, where we havent seen the manifests, to land on U.S. military bases, Psaki told reporters on Wednesday during a White House press briefing.

She noted that U.S. authorities are continuing to press the Taliban to allow American citizens and individuals with proper documentation to evacuate the war-torn nation.

A number of these planes, they may have a handful of American citizens, but they may have several hundred individuals where we dont have manifests for them, we dont know what the security protocols are for them, we dont know what their documentation is, Psaki said.

Are we going to allow a plane with hundreds of people, where we dont know who they are, we dont know what security protocols have been put in place, to land on a U.S. military base? she added while responding to a series of questions related to charter flights trying to leave Mazar-i-Sharif in Afghanistan.

The Taliban terrorist group on Thursday allowed a flight to take off from Kabuls airport for the first time since U.S. troops withdrew from the country late last month.

A senior U.S. official, who was not identified, told The Associated Press that approximately 200 foreigners were on board the plane, including Americans, Hungarians, Germans, and Canadians. It is unclear if those aboard the flight include people stranded for days in the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif.

Passengers prepare to board a Qatar Airways aircraft at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Sept. 9, 2021. (Wakil Kohsar/AFP via Getty Images)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged earlier this week that a relatively small number of Americans are trying to leave Mazar-i-Sharif with their families.

He noted that the flights are delayed because it is challenging to vet passengers and follow security protocols because the United States doesnt have any personnel on the ground to verify the accuracy of passengers identities, flight plans, or aviation security protocols.

One of the challenges has been that, as we understand it, there are groups of people who are grouped together, some of whom have the appropriate travel documentsan American passport, a green card, a visaand others do not, he told reporters in Qatar on Sept. 7, adding that to his understanding, the Taliban hasnt denied exit to anyone holding valid documentation.

Its still not clear how many Americans are stranded in Afghanistan. The Biden administration said between 100 and 200 were left behind when U.S. troops completed their withdrawal, but others have pegged the number around 500.

The Epoch Times Zachary Stieber contributed to this report.

From NTD News
Remote Employee Monitoring: Pros, Cons, and How to Do It Right

According to Global Workplace Analytics, remote work has grown 159 percent since 2009, while Owl Labs established it has increased by 55 percent in the last five years. With the pandemic, remote work and remote employee monitoring have soared, and so have doubts as to how to do it in conformity with the law.

Q2 2021 hedge fund letters, conferences and more

Remote Employee Monitoring Is Growing

Two months into lockdownMay 2020around 20 percent of surveyed organizations had acquired remote work monitoring software, according to a Gartner research.

Fast-forward to 2021, 48 percent of employees are believed to somehow do remote work after the pandemic, 18 percent more among those who worked remotely at least part-time before the pandemic.

There are several reasons for companies to monitor their employeestrust, cybersecurity and backups, and productivity monitoring. But Josh Bersin, HR industry analyst of the Josh Bersin Academy says, If the idea is to benefit employees, its good; if its to evaluate employees, its potentially dangerous; and if its to penalize them, its probably a bad idea.

The increasing monitoring stems from how the employer-employee relationship has been sent into a spin during Covid times. Further, doubts about the productivity of remote work seem to vary depending on who is asked and how each person adjusts to the new reality.

But trusting that someone is doing their job is one of the essential requirements for remote work to function properly, especially when 85 percent of managers state that having teams with remote workers will become the new norm, according to a Tecla research.

Monitoring, says Brian Kropp, chief of research in the HR practice at Gartner, is everything from technology that will take photos of employees from their laptops to tools that allow workers to punch a virtual time clock to tracking keystrokes to monitor productivity levels.

Pros of Remote Employee Monitoring

There are several advantages of remote employee monitoring that allow for maintaining teams aligned and keep tabs on productivity.

Monitoring software can improve employee output by measuring the time collaborators dedicate to the companyfrom their arrival time to their departure time, whether from home or anywhere else.

So, employers can see if workers, for instance, spend endless hours on social media or browse other pages that have nothing to do with their daily contracted activities. Further, they can take action if an employee is struggling with a project or client.

Also, the monitoring can effectively help the billing and budget handling, as an accurate measurement of project timelines and resources dedicated to a client will have to reflect on their satisfaction.

Cons of Remote Employee Monitoring

It is impossible to detach employee monitoring from an ethical frame. Employees may feel their privacy has been devalued or violated, and it may be difficult to retain employees if monitoring seems intrusive, according to HR Daily Advisor.

Monitoring can signal a lack of trust, which can breed resentment and reduce employee morale and productivity.

In this regard, based on Gartners research from January 2021, less than 50 percent of workers trust their companies with their data, while 44 percent do not hear any information about the data companies collect.

Brian Kropp says, If its really just about Are people productive or not? then you might have better tools to prove it.

If youre using it to understand the employee experience, what is hard for them, whats breaking, what are they spending a lot of time on  Thats where the productivity gains are.

How to Do It Right

Jennifer Betts, an employment attorney for Ogletree Deakins says: In most instances state laws require you to protect employees privacy rights by giving them advance notice of your monitoring. The best practice is to get employees consent for monitoring in writing.

Further, Usama Kahf, a partner with Fisher Phillips asserts that Employees generally have an expectation of privacy in their use of personal computers and phones unless a different company policy has been communicated to them in writing.

With regards to independent contractors, companies could be traversing a trickier, pricklier path, since hiring this type of workforce and using any kind of tracking and monitoring software on them, could affect their work status at your company, according to Flex Jobs.

The remote job website says that independent contractors are allowed to do their work how and when they want. This is especially so, as independent contractors use their own personal devices like phones, tablets, or laptops.

If you, as an employer, are tracking and monitoring them, you may be controlling or directing their work, turning their independent contractor status into employee status.

Specialized website Creators emphasizes that Spying on your independent contractors online activity dramatically increases the risk that the IRS or some other government agency will reclassify your independent contractors as employees, with disastrous consequences for you and your business.
A Sukhoi Su-30 fighter is seen on the tarmac at the MAKS 2017 air show in Zhukovsky, outside Moscow, Russia, on July 18, 2017. (Sergei Karpukhin/Reuters)

Russia Moves Sukhoi Su-30 Fighter Jets to Belarus to Patrol Borders, Minsk Says

MOSCOWRussia has sent Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets to western Belarus to form a joint military training center, fly joint missions and patrol the two countries borders, the Belarusian defense ministry said on Wednesday.

The announcement comes two days before the start of military drills in Belarus and Russia that have prompted consternation in the NATO military alliance and European Union countries.

Belarus has been at loggerheads with the West since President Alexander Lukashenko unleashed a violent crackdown on mass street protests last year. The tensions have pushed Belarus to fall back on traditional ally Russia for financial and diplomatic support.

Lukashenko is due to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Thursday. Earlier this month, Lukashenko said Russia would soon deliver a huge military hardware consignment to Belarus, including aircraft, helicopters, and air defense systems.

The Russian jets arrived at the Baranovichi airfield to form a joint training center for the air force and air defense forces of Belarus and Russia, the ministry said in a statement. The statement did not say how many jets landed at Baranovichi.

The jets will will carry out joint combat duty to protect the air borders of the Union State.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg last week urged Russia to be transparent in conducting the Zapad-2021 (West-2021) exercises. Poland said on Monday the drills would fuel tensions that are already running high over an influx of migrants crossing the border from Belarus into the EU.

Russia sees Belarus as a security buffer on its western flank against NATO and the EU.

Russia and Belarus are formally part of a union state and have been in talks for years to further integrate their nations.

The negotiations have long spurred fears among the beleaguered Belarusian opposition that Lukashenko might trade off chunks of sovereignty in return for even more political backing from the Kremlin.

By Vladimir Soldatkin and Alexander Marrow
San Clemente Officials: Commercial Boats May Close Amid Proposed Emission Standards

Californias newly proposed emission standards could potentially put commercial boats out of business, critics say.

The San Clemente City Council unanimously passed a letter of opposition to the California Air Resources Boards (CARB) proposed standards on Aug. 7.

Donna Kalez, operator of Dana Wharf Sportfishing and Whale Watching in Dana Point, said the regulations by CARB consist of installing engines that are more environmentally friendly but are unavailable and nonexistent, and could result in a decline of commercial boats able to operate daily to and from Catalina, amid other activities.

Dana Wharfs Sportfishing and Whale Watching has 17 boats in our fleet, she said. We employ 50 to 75 employees, and we see over 50,000 visitors annually that go whale watching and sportfishing. We also donate numerous trips to schools, military, special needs, veterans.

Were working waterfront, all the way from San Francisco, all the way down to San Diego, Kalez said. So if you can imagine if you take all of those sport fishing boats out and whale watching boats, along with ferries that go to Catalina Island  [it] would have a huge impact on our economy.

Ken Franke, president of Sportfishing Association, stood in support of Kalez and the commercial boat industry, saying that the costs to install new engines would be millions of dollars. While Franke is willing to abide by CARBs desired equipment, he insists that until the technology is made available, boats should continue to operate.

What theyre prescribing is basically the end of an industry, Franke said.

The technology will come inat that point, wed be more than happy to go and put it on the boat. Until such time as that, weve asked CARB to continue to permit the boats to operate. And then as equipment becomes available, then we talk about upgrading the vessels.

Mayor Kathy Ward said: This time frame is for things that dont exist yet.  Im wondering what Avalon, on the island of Catalina, even thinks about this, because no ones going to be able to goexcept anyone that has their own boatto Avalon, and so essentially their industry over there is going to be done.

Mayor Pro Tem Gene James recalled when, over a decade ago, renditions of requirements from the state resulted in boat owners having to change their engines, and drill holes through them so they were never sold or used again.

As the proposed regulations threaten the livelihood of residents, James calls to take a stand to prevent the proposal from coming to fruition.

We need to get behind a local business, where we have an economic interest in the business surviving. We have people in this city who are invested in that business and who work in that business, James said.

Councilman Steve Knoblock urged that a letter be sent in opposition to CARBs proposed standards, and he insisted it also be sent to local senators and congressmen.

With the technology requested by CARB remaining nonexistent, it was determined that the proposed regulations were unreasonable and that they would have a tremendous negative economic effect on the boating industry.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan holds a news conference at the Maryland State Capitol in Annapolis, Md., on Aug. 5, 2021. (Bahaudin Mujtaba via AP)

Seniors Living in Group Settings Can Get COVID-19 Booster Shots Immediately: Maryland Gov.

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced Wednesday that seniors aged 65 and older who live in congregate settings could start getting COVID-19 booster shots immediately.

Hogan said the state had already administered over 28,000 boosters to immunocompromised Marylanders. However, he complained that the Biden administrations guidance on booster shots has been confusing and contradictory.

Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that moderately to severely immunocompromised people receive an additional dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. That includes people who have been receiving active cancer treatment, people who are taking medicine to suppress the immune system because of an organ or stem cell transplant, among others.

And it is still unclear when and how more people will become eligible, Hogan continued. But all of the evidence makes it abundantly clear that we cannot afford to delay taking decisive action to protect our most vulnerable citizens.

The states authorization applies to all nursing homes, assisted living facilities, residential drug treatment centers, and developmentally disabled group homes, according to Hogan, a Republican.

To be clear, these facilities in Maryland will not have to wait to begin offering boosters. Boosters can now be immediately administered, Hogan added.

A vial of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is seen at a popup vaccine clinic in the Arleta neighborhood of Los Angeles, Calif., on Aug. 23, 2021. (Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)

The Biden administration plans to provide Americans with a booster shot in the week of Sept. 20 and starting 8 months after an individual receives his second dose of a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.

A booster shot for Johnson & Johnson vaccine is also anticipated, but more data are needed, according to a recent statement from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

The rollout of booster shots is subject to authorization by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommendation by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the CDC.

The FDA announced early this month that it would hold a virtual meeting on Sept. 17 to discuss additional doses of COVID-19 vaccines.

Hogans announcement expanded the federal approval of third doses to include seniors in group settings, regardless of their health.

We are interpreting that view to deem the seniors in congregate care settings as immunocompromised, the governors spokesman Mike Ricci told the Baltimore Sun.

Hogan announced during the press conference that over 80 percent of Marylanders aged 12 and older had been vaccinated against COVID-19, a disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, commonly known as the novel coronavirus.
Supreme Court Stays Execution of Texas Inmate Who Wants Preacher With Him, Agrees to Hear Appeal

The Supreme Court late on Sept. 8 granted a last-minute reprieve to a convicted murderer in Texas who wants his pastor physically by his side, touching him, and praying aloud for him at the time of his execution.

The case, Ramirez v. Collier, was filed with the Supreme Court on Sept. 7. The condemned man is John Henry Ramirez. The respondent is Bryan Collier, executive director of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice.

On July 19, 2004, a 20-year-old Ramirez, seeking money to buy drugs, robbed and murdered Pablo Castro, 46, stabbing him 29 times in a convenience store parking lot. Ramirez obtained $1.25 in loot from Castro. Ramirez robbed a second victim at knifepoint and tried to rob a third. He absconded to Mexico, evading arrest for 3 1/2 years, according to prosecutors.

The application for stay of execution of the death sentence and the petition for review was presented to Justice Samuel Alito and was referred by him to the full court. No justices indicated they dissented from the stay or the granting of the petition. The single-page order states, The Clerk is directed to establish a briefing schedule that will allow the case to be argued in October or November 2021.

Speaking for Texas, Collier cited the security risk posed by an outsiders presence in the execution chamber, and argued in his brief in opposition that the execution ought to proceed.

That a state may not impose policies coercing an inmate to do what his religious tenants forbid does not mean that it must accede to his every religious demand, he said in the document. By design, prisons impede inmates freedom to behave as they might wish, which, necessarily limits some of their religious behavior.

Collier noted that the district court determined that his agencys current execution protocol accommodate[s] Ramirezs religious needs. Ramirez is allowed to visit with his pastor from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the morning of his execution, and then again from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. prior to his execution, he added.

For up to six hours, then, Ramirezs chosen pastor may read scriptures and pray aloud with him. And when it is time for his sentence to be carried out, Ramirez himself may pray aloud as a final statement while his chosen pastor stands with him in the execution chamber.

Collier said Ramirezs legal arguments werent compelling. The appeals court found Ramirez failed to identify any jurisdiction in which outside spiritual advisors are permitted to pray aloud and make physical contact with an inmate during his execution, he wrote.

Ramirezs attorney, Seth Kretzer, argued in the petition filed with the Supreme Court that Texas is depriving his client of his constitutionally protected right to exercise his religion, as well as running afoul of the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.

The right of a condemned person to the comfort of clergyand the corresponding right of clergy to comfort the condemnedare among the longest-standing and most well-recognized religious exercises known to civilization.

The Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act provides for expansive protection for religious liberty, giving an inmate greater protection than relevant First Amendment precedents, Kretzer wrote, citing the Supreme Courts 2015 decision in Holt v. Hobbs.

The Supreme Court has shown an increasing willingness in recent years to rule in favor of death row inmates who want prison officials to allow spiritual advisers.

In February of this year, the Supreme Court granted a stay of execution to convicted murderer Willie B. Smith III, who is incarcerated in Alabama.

Smith, now 51, was sentenced to death in 1992 for abducting, robbing, and murdering Sharma Ruth Johnson, 22, the year before. Johnsons remains were found in her burned-out car. She had been shot in the head execution-style in a cemetery after begging for her life.

Alabama enacted a policy in 2019 forbidding an inmate from being accompanied by any religious representative in the room in which the execution takes place. Before that, the state had required the presence of a prison chaplain at an inmates side.

Smith argued that going forward with his execution without his pastors presence in the death chamber violates his First Amendment-protected religious freedoms. Alabama officials subsequently reached an accommodation with Smith and agreed to allow his spiritual adviser to minister to him in the execution chamber.

The Alabama Supreme Court has scheduled a new execution date of Oct. 21 for Smith.
A Nygard store in Winnipeg is shown on Feb. 26, 2020. The Supreme Court of Canada is expected to deliver a ruling today on whether Canadian fashion mogul Peter Nygard, who is facing sex trafficking and racketeering charges in the United States, will stay behind bars. (The Canadian Press/John Woods)

Supreme Court Wont Hear Bail Appeal From Fashion Mogul Peter Nygard

OTTAWAThe Supreme Court of Canada wont hear a bail appeal from a Canadian fashion mogul who is facing trafficking and racketeering charges in the United States.

Peter Nygard applied earlier this year to the countrys highest court for permission to challenge a Manitoba ruling that denied him release while he awaits possible extradition. His lawyers argued there is inconsistency in how courts decide on incarceration when it comes to extradition hearings.

An Appeal Court justice had ruled that Nygards detention was necessary because of the enormity of the allegations against him.

Nygard is accused by American authorities of using his influence to lure women and girls with the promise of modelling and other financial opportunities.

He has denied all the allegations.

As usual, the high court gave no reasons for its decision to not examine the case.

Nygard was arrested in Winnipeg last December under the Extradition Act and faces nine counts in the Southern District of New York.

The 80-year-old was first denied bail in February with a judge citing concerns Nygard would contact witnesses if released. Nygard appealed that decision and was again denied release in March.

His lawyers presented the bail hearings with a release plan that included monitoring of all emails and text messages. It also involved an in-home security guard and 24-hour video surveillance.

Federal prosecutors argued that Nygard has the finances and personnel available to help him in obstructing justice.

Nygards extradition hearing is to take place in November. The extradition request from the U.S. details accounts from seven alleged victims who are expected to testify in a criminal trial in that country.

The women allege their livelihoods and their movements became dependent on having sex with Nygard. They say they were coerced through financial means or physical force.

Nygard is also the subject of a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. involving 57 women with similar allegations.

By Kelly Geraldine Malone
Taliban Declares Ban on Slogans, Protests That Dont Have Its Approval

The Taliban on Sept. 8 announced a ban on all slogans, demonstrations, and protests that dont have official approval in yet another signal that the Islamic terrorist group is taking a hardline and repressive approach to government.

A decree was issued on Sept. 8 by the head of the Talibans new interior ministry, Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is a member of the Haqqani network that has long been designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department. The department also has a $10 million bounty on Haqqanis head, while the United Nations has Haqqani on a sanctions list.

Haqqanis decree said that protesters without the Talibans permission to stage demonstrations in a stated time and location will face severe legal consequences.

Approval must also be given for any slogans that might be used during the protest.

The decree also accused Afghans protesting in Kabul and other provinces in recent days of disrupting security, harassing people, and disrupting normal life, telling citizens that no one should protest and cause concern to the citizens without permission from the Ministry of Justice.

It claimed, The Islamic Emirate addresses the legitimate demands and rights of all citizens and must be given time to take the necessary steps to address other issues once security is restored.

The announcement comes amid multiple protests in the country between Taliban fighters and demonstratorsincluding one protest led by local women in Kabul.

On Sept. 7, members of the terrorist group were seen firing shots into the air in an effort to disperse a large protest being held outside the Pakistan embassy in Kabul, while several reporters were arrested as they attempted to document the demonstration, according to reports.

Thousands of Afghan men and women took to the streets to protest against the Taliban and what they characterized as Pakistani intelligences interference in the affairs of the Middle Eastern nation and for allegedly being the guiding hand behind the Talibans return to power.

Demonstrators allege that Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) supported the Talibans latest offensive that routed resistance fighters in the Panjshir Valley north of Kabulthe last area where anti-Taliban resistance fighters have held out against the terrorist group. Islamabad denies this.

Some of the protestors carried signs reading ISI stay away. Others shouted slogans such as Azadi [freedom or liberty] and Death to Pakistan.

On Sept. 7, the Taliban announced its new government for Afghanistan, challenging claims to rightful government by former Afghan Vice President Amrullah Saleh, who says he is the legitimate caretaker president, according to the countrys constitution adopted in 2004. The Talibans cabinet notably doesnt include any women or non-Taliban figures, despite the militant group vowing to form an inclusive government as part of the Doha Agreement.

The group named Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund as the countrys interim prime minister and co-founder Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar as second in command, while Mullah Yaqoob will be the defense minister.

The international community has expressed concern over the lack of diversity within the Talibans so-called government, with the United States previously stating it wouldnt recognize a Taliban-led government if it wasnt inclusive.

We note the announced list of names consists exclusively of individuals who are members of the Taliban or their close associates and no women. We also are concerned by the affiliations and track records of some of the individuals, a spokesperson for the State Department said in a statement following the Sept. 7 announcement.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Talibans deputy leader and negotiator, and other delegation members attend the Afghan peace conference in Moscow, on March 18, 2021. (Alexander Zemlianichenko/Pool via Reuters)

We understand that the Taliban has presented this as a caretaker cabinet. However, we will judge the Taliban by its actions, not words.

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson echoed U.S. concerns over the Talibans proposed government and the distinct lack of diversity.

We would want to see, in any situation, a diverse group in leadership which seeks to address the pledges that the Taliban themselves have set out, and thats not what we have seen, a spokesman for Johnson said. We will continue to judge the Taliban on their actions.

EU spokesperson Peter Stano said the new government does not look like the inclusive and representative formation in terms of the rich ethnic and religious diversity of Afghanistan we hoped to see and that the Taliban were promising over the past weeks, in a statement to media outlets.

Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said the exclusion of groups outside the Taliban, coupled with the violence perpetrated by Taliban terrorists against protesters and journalists in Kabul are not signals that give cause for optimism.

It must be clear to the Taliban that international isolation is not in its interests, and especially not in those of Afghanistans people, Maas said.
Passengers prepare to board a Qatar Airways aircraft at the airport in Kabul, Afghanistan on Sept. 9, 2021. (Wakil Kohsar/AFP via Getty Images)

First Flight From Kabul Since US Withdrawal Lands in Qatar

The first flight allowed to take off from Kabuls airport since U.S. troops withdrew from the country late last month has safely landed in nearby Qatar, U.S. officials said.

The Qatar Airways plane left Hamid Karzai International Airport on the evening of Sept. 9 local time and landed in Qatar several hours later.

This is a historic day in the history of Afghanistan, as Kabul airport is fully operational. We have been faced by huge challenges  but we can now say that the airport is fit for navigation, Mutlaq al-Qahtani, Qatars special envoy to Afghanistan, told Qatari-funded Al Jazeera on the Kabul airport tarmac before the flight took off.

The Taliban terrorist group let the flight depart.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, standing nearby, said that Qatari officials had helped bring the airport back online.

Emily Horne, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, said in a statement that the U.S. government facilitated the departure of U.S. citizens on the flight.

Thirty Americans and lawful permanent residents were invited to be on the flight but it wasnt clear if all of them made it on, State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters in Washington. He said there would be additional opportunities for Americans to leave the country.

The Qatari embassy in Washington and Qatar Airways didnt respond to requests for comment.

Irfan Popalzai, 12, was among those boarding the plane. His mother and five siblings were as well. He told the Associated Press that his family lives in Maryland.

I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited [to leave], he said.

A senior U.S. official, who was not identified, told the outlet that approximately 200 foreigners were on board the plane, including Americans, Hungarians, Germans, and Canadians.

The official said two Taliban officials helped facilitate the flight.

The Taliban have been cooperative in facilitating the departure of American citizens and lawful permanent residents on charter flights from HKIA. They have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort. This is a positive first step, Horne said.

We will continue these efforts to facilitate the safe and orderly travel of American citizens, lawful permanent residents, and Afghans who worked for us and wish to leave Afghanistan. Because there is an ongoing terrorist threat to operations of this nature, we will not be sharing details of these efforts before people are safely out of the country.

U.S. lawmakers had said in recent days that Americans were being held hostage at a different airport, in northern Afghanistan.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken later confirmed that some Americans were being prevented from leaving the country. The Taliban, who were blocking the U.S. citizens, claimed that they lacked proper documents.

It still isnt clear how many Americans remain stranded in Afghanistan. The Biden administration said between 100 and 200 were left behind when U.S. troops completed their withdrawal, but others have pegged the number at around 500.
Larry Elder walks with staff and residents of Venice Beach, Calif., through streets with high populations of homeless individuals on Sept. 8, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Tensions Rise, Eggs Thrown, Security Assaulted During Larry Elders Venice Beach Walk-Through

Gubernatorial candidate Larry Elder ended early a walk-through of his next campaign stop at Venice Beach, when over 10 hecklers harassed him, throwing projectiles, and allegedly assaulted his bodyguard on Sept. 8.

During a tour of Venice Beachs homeless encampments, Elder was joined by 30 media personnel and members of the public when a group of hecklers approached them on 3rd Street. Two hecklers were repeatedly shouting racial slurs.

The crowd walked down Rose Avenue, where one of the main encampments is located. The hecklers followed.

About halfway through the encampment a lady in a pink gorilla mask, riding a bike, appeared on video throwing an egg which appeared to narrowly miss Elders head.

Larry Elder walks with staff and residents of Venice Beach, Calif., through streets with high populations of homeless individuals on Sept. 8, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

A woman throwing objects at Larry Elder later assulted a member of Elders security team in Venice Beach, Calif., on Sept. 8, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

One of Elders security staff attempted to separate the woman from the crowd, to keep her from continuing to throw projectiles.

In videos surfacing on Twitter, the woman slapped the security staff in the face. Another protester hit the same security staff member seconds later.

A white SUV drove up to the crowd, which was walking down Hampton Drive towards Sunset Avenue.

Elders team escorted him to his vehicle and drove away.

The media personnel later departed in a bus and met up with Elder to continue the tour.

Elder was supposed to depart from the Rose Cafe parking lot and spend 45 minutes speaking with the media. However, around 20 minutes into the walk-through, the event ended early due to safety concerns.

Elder is an Epoch Times contributor and host of Larry Elder with Epoch Times on EpochTV.
The hammer Jacob Gaines admitted to using to assault a federal officer in Portland, Ore., on July 11, 2020. (DOJ)

Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Striking Federal Officer With Hammer During Portland Riot

A Texas man caught on camera assaulting a federal officer with a hammer last year during rioting in Portland, Oregon, pleaded guilty this week to assault.

Jacob Gaines, 24, faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.

We are very fortunate Mr. Gaines did not severely injure or kill the Deputy U.S. Marshal who confronted him outside the federal courthouse last summer. Assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon is a very serious crime and will be handled by our office accordingly, Scott Erik Asphaug, acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, said in a statement.

Anyone who assaults or tries to hurt a U.S. Marshals Service employee should expect to be charged. Mr. Gaines could have killed the deputy he struck with a construction hammer, and were grateful to the US Attorneys Office for seeing this case through to its conclusion, added Peter Cajigal, acting U.S. Marshal for the District of Oregon.

Gaines was seen at around 1 a.m. on July 11, 2020, using a hammer to try to break through an entrance to the federal courthouse in Portland that had been barricaded because of ongoing riots by Antifa and other far-left groups.

After Gaines succeeded in making a hole in the plywood barricade, deputy U.S. Marshals exited the courthouse to confront him.

Thats when Gaines struck one of them three times with the hammer.

Gaines was immediately arrested.

Gaines has been described by federal officials as homeless and living out of his car in Portland.

In a document pleading guilty to assaulting a federal officer with a deadly weapon, Gaines said his thinking or ability to reason was not clouded by alcohol or drugs, though he acknowledged taking four prescription medicines, including the sedative clonidine.

On July 11, 2020, I forcibly assaulted a Deputy United States Marshal while he was engaged in the performance of and on account of his official duties, and I used a deadly or dangerous weapon, to wit a four-pound hammer, the document, which was filed with the court, stated.

An attorney representing Gaines declined to comment.

Guilty pleas and convictions from federal cases brought against rioters in Portland last year have been rare. Most have been dropped.

Still others are headed to jail for crimes committed during riots.

Cyan Bass, for instance, was sentenced to four years in state prison after pleading guilty to arson and other counts in July. And Gavaughn Streeter-Hillerich was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to a first-degree arson state charge a month earlier.
(L-R) Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau, Green Leader Annamie Paul, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, and Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-Francois Blanchet stand at their podiums before the French-language leaders' debate on Sept. 8, 2021, in Gatineau, Que. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Trudeau, OToole Surprisingly Restrained in French-Language Leaders Debate

Commentary

With polls indicating such a close race in the federal election, Erin OToole and Justin Trudeau both were surprisingly restrained in the second of the French-language election debates. Neither leader dropped any new policy stances and they stuck pretty closely to their talking points. They were more concerned with staying safe than with trying to score some sort of knockout blow in hopes of moving the needle of support.

The debate format was interesting. It was tightly moderated and while some direct, leader-to-leader discourse happened, it tended to be short and controlled. Some questions were posed by guests and others by the moderators. Many were rather tough. A diverse range of subjects was covered. This is in contrast with the English language debate which will be limited to only five subjects.

The first subject was on whether Trudeau would commit to a four-year term even if he wins a minority. This is a sticky subject for Trudeau as many people have been questioning his early election call. Trudeau didnt give a direct answer to the question. Every other party leader spoke to the need to work together to ensure that a minority government lasts as long as it needs to. Over the course of the rest of the debate, those leaders repeatedly took shots at Trudeau for his having called an early election.

On the question of mandatory vaccination, Yves-Francois Blanchet, Jagmeet Singh, and Trudeau all were supportive and only differed slightly in how much pressure had to be put on people in order to get compliance. OToole and Annamie Paul both wanted to encourage people to get vaccinated but made a point of avoiding a call for outright mandatory vaccines.

OToole and Blanchet found some surprising common ground in calling for a reduction or suspension of CRB benefits in order to address the labour crisis. The remaining leaders wanted to maintain or even increase CRB benefits, with Paul calling for a permanent basic income program.

One of the more interesting portions of the debate was when questions were posed directly to individual leaders on subjects that they would likely have rather avoided.

Blanchet was put on the spot when asked if indigenous languages would be recognized as official languages in Canada. As the Bloc leader, Blanchet cant endorse any language but French. While usually composed, Blanchet was clearly flustered as he tried to talk around the issue without insulting indigenous supporters.

Paul was asked about her split with her own party on the issue of Israel. It cut deeply as her party is in a state of internal disarray. Paul would only say that she recognizes international law.

OToole was repeatedly questioned on his stance on legislation that had banned a large number of firearms. OToole said he would keep it in place and review things.

Trudeau was asked about his failure to bring clean water to indigenous reserves. He said his government has made progress and is still working on it.

Singh was asked about costing his platform as the spending promises are unrealistic. He tried to assure people that he would be able to tax the ultra-rich enough in order to fund his promises.

Some genuine sparks flew when Blanchet implied that Trudeau is not a real Quebecer and couldnt speak for the province. Trudeau was clearly agitated and lost composure while shouting that he was a Quebec resident. That anger carried over to the post-debate press conference when the subject came up. This is clearly a sensitive spot for Trudeau, and Blanchet will likely twist that knife on Trudeau again.

While there may have been no clear winner in the debate, Annamie Paul was the clear loser. With no platform or support from her own party, she is drifting and it showed in the debate. She was weak and often stuck to talking points on issues that demanded longer answers.

Being a French-language debate, the discourse naturally revolved predominantly around Quebec. Blanchet constantly pointed out how the federal government had no jurisdiction with most issues in Quebec and made no secret of his Quebec-first attitude. While other leaders were more nuanced, they were careful to avoid stepping on provincial rights when it came to Quebec in this debate. That attitude may change during the English-language debate on Sept. 9.

Trudeau made a point of sidetracking into mentioning abortion and Stephen Harper at the end of the debate. It was a sad attempt to bring the issues into the spotlight. I can only guess that he was instructed to bring those things up but never got a chance, so he decided to simply toss them out without context at the end of the debate.

The second French-language debate was a well-managed and solid affair. Unfortunately, the questions were often more interesting than the answers. Hopefully, in the final debate of the election, we will gain better, more candid insight into where the leaders of the major parties stand on issues as the campaign hits the final stretch.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Two More Cities Support Constructing Veterans Cemetery in Anaheim

The Huntington Beach and Santa Ana city councils became the latest to unanimously support building a veterans cemetery in Anaheims Gypsum Canyon on Sept. 7.

The Huntington Beach City Council unanimously bypassed its own charter rules to pass the resolution on the first reading rather than reviewing it in two separate readings.

City Attorney Michael Gates said the councils decision sets a precedent too that other resolutions may come forward and be passed upon first reading.

Its generally speaking a good idea to look at these things in the context of other ordinances and make sure theres no conflicts. Here clearly there isnt one; its fine, Gates said during the Sept. 7 council meeting.

Huntington Beach Councilman Mike Posey, who brought the item forward as a resolution, said he intended to bring it to the council two weeks ago, but we canceled the meeting. So there is a time of the essence element.

If youve seen where Gypsum Canyon wraps the 91 freeway, its a beautiful scenic peaceful spot, and its going to be able to be seen from both directions by travelers on the 91 freeway. Theres quite an extensive list of supporters, Posey said during the council meeting.

Councilman Erik Peterson, the only military veteran on the council, said although it is very important for Orange County to have a veterans cemetery, he was concerned about violating the citys charter rules.

Peterson said during the meeting that he doesnt have a problem moving the item to the next council meeting to follow the citys handbook, but if you guys want to bypass it, thats fine. I still think that we should really follow our rules. I mean, we ask everyone else to follow rules.

Posey said in opposition to Petersons comments: Were going to stand in the way of a formality, and I can let the veterans know that were going to be taking in another two weeks to think about this.

Mayor Kim Carr interjected, The rules in place are important, but we can make exceptions for certain special circumstances, and I cant think of anything more important than this right now.

Carr added that she was comfortable with setting the [handbook aside]  for something thats very important like this.

This one I feel is exceptional, especially in light of everything thats happened over the past week. I think this is the right message, she said.

A number of councils have already stated their support for the Gypsum Canyon location, including Anaheim, Mission Viejo, Villa Park, Tustin, Orange, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Dana Point, and others.

The Orange County Board of Supervisors approved a $20 million spending plan for a veterans cemetery at the Gypsum Canyon site on July 27.

The cemetery was initially planned to be based at a former Marine Corps. Air Station in Irvine, but when those plans fell through after years of political controversy, the site moved to Gypsum Canyon.

Harvey Liss, volunteer executive director of Build the Great Park Veterans Cemetery, said the Irvine site is not dead at all and only needs city council approval to begin construction.

Legislation is there, federal funding is still there, Liss told The Epoch Times, adding that no such funding or legislation has been approved for the Gypsum Canyon site.

The Gypsum Canyon site will need to undergo a similar process of getting state and federal approval, a process that took Irvines site around two years to complete.
Illegal imigrants carry children as they are escorted to be processed after being picked up by an Royal National Lifeboat Institution lifeboat while crossing the English Channel at a beach in Dungeness, southeast England, on Sept. 7, 2021. (Ben Stansall/AFP via Getty Images)

UK, France in War of Words Over Illegal Immigrant Crossings in English Channel

The continuing illegal immigration crisis in the English Channel has sparked an unusually heated exchange of words between the governments of Britain and France.

At least 14,100 people have crossed the English Channel to the UK aboard small boats this year, according to data compiled by the PA news agency. The figure so far is already nearly 6,000 higher than the number of people who made the crossing in the whole of last year.

According to Britains Home Office, 785 illegal immigrants crossed the Channel from France into the UK on Monday. It was the second highest daily total of the year, following the single-day record of 828 people set last month. Hundreds more have made the crossing since.

At Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Boris Johnson came under pressure from Conservative MPs to take strong action and send the boats straight back to France.

Johnson said efforts to stop the crossings depended to a large extent on the ability of the French authorities. But he vowed to use every possible tactic at our disposal to deal with the issue.

After discussing the matter with French Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin on Wednesday while attending the G-7 interior ministers meeting in London, UK Home Secretary Priti Patel called the talks constructive, but said she made it clear to her French counterpart delivering results and stopping crossings were an absolute priority for the British people.

In July, the two countries announced an agreement on tackling the problem, under which the UK would pay France 54 million ($75 million) to more than double the number of police patrolling French beaches.

But according to The Times of London, Patel told MPs on Monday she was ready to withhold the cash unless there was an improvement in the number of illegal immigrants intercepted by French authorities.

The row was further escalated on Thursday, when British media quoted an unnamed UK government official as saying the government had approved plans to push illegal immigrant boats back into French waters.

The Epoch Times asked the UK Home Office for confirmation, but a spokesperson said, We do not routinely comment on maritime operational activity.

Darmanin, the French interior minister, reacted strongly to the alleged threats, saying he had clearly told Patel the UK must stick to its commitments.

France will not accept any practice that goes against maritime law, and will not accept any financial blackmail, Darmanin wrote on Twitter on Thursday.

The UK prime ministers official spokesman declined to confirm the reported change of tactics against the immigrant boats on Thursday, but he said, Without getting into operational matters, as part of our ongoing response we continue to evaluate and test a range of safe and legal options to find ways of stopping small boats making this dangerous and unnecessary journey.

When we are seeing record numbers still being able to cross the Channel, we need to make sure that all the requisite options are available to our Border Force staff, and thats what we will continue to do, he said.

PA and Reuters contributed to this report.
Ukraine Parliament Passes Law to Legalize and Regulate Cryptocurrency

Ukraine has become the latest country to legalize cryptocurrency, just days after El Salvador adopted Bitcoin as legal tender.

In an almost unanimous vote on Sept. 8, the Ukrainian Parliament adopted a virtual asset bill making cryptocurrency and other digital assets legal in the country.

Known as Bill No. 3637 On Virtual Assets, the draft bill provides clarification on how individuals and businesses utilizing digital currency can be properly protected and also determines how Ukraine will regulate the cryptocurrency market going forward.

A total of 276 Ukrainian lawmakers voted for the bill, which now heads to the desk of President Volodymyr Zelensky.

As per the official website of the Ukraine Parliament, the new law provides for a comprehensive settlement of legal relations arising in connection with the circulation of virtual assets in Ukraine, to determine the rights and obligations of participants in the virtual assets market, the principles of state policy in the field of circulation of virtual assets.

The law is designed to address a number of issues relating to cryptocurrency, including a lack of legal regulation in the circulation of virtual assets, a lack of mechanisms for taxation of income received via virtual assets, and a lack of legal guarantees to protect the property rights of virtual asset holders and participants.

Bill No. 3637 will also address the regulation of market professionals virtual asset activities, the lack of mechanisms to control virtual assets for illegal activities such as money laundering, financing terrorism, and other crime, and the lack of mechanisms to attract foreign investment in high-tech sectors of Ukraines economy.

Previously, cryptocurrencies were somewhat of a gray area for the country, as with no laws to define them, they were neither legal or illegal meaning Ukrainians could buy, trade, and exchange them. However, there was no protection from local courts if something went wrong.

Despite this, blockchain data from the Chainalysis 2020 Geography of Cryptocurrency Report ranked Ukrainians as the top adopters of cryptocurrency in the world in September 2020, followed closely by Russia.

Between July 2019 and June 2020, Ukraine had sent $8.2 billion and received $8 billion in digital currency, as per the data.

The main regulator of the virtual assets market will be Ukraines Ministry of Digital Transformation, as well as the National Bank of Ukraine and the National Securities Commission, according to Kyiv Post.

The government also wants to create another regulator that will issue permits for crypto companies in Ukraine.

The Ukraine Parliament is expected to pass a set of laws and amend its tax and civil codes before it can open the cryptocurrency market for businesses and investors by 2022, a spokesman for the Ministry of Digital Transformation said.

While the new law signifies a big step in the direction of cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin being recognized as legitimate currency by governments around the world, unlike El Salvador, Ukraine is yet to make bitcoin legal tender.

Lawmakers in the Central American country passed legislation in June making bitcoin legal tender alongside the U.S. dollar, with the hopes that it will boost financial inclusion in El Salvador, where around 70 percent of citizens lack access to traditional financial services.

The law went into effect on Sept. 7, and requires businesses to accept bitcoin payments on transactions, while Salvadorans will be able to use the digital currency to make tax payments.

Despite things getting off to a somewhat volatile start, the countrys president, Nayib Bukele, wrote on Twitter on Monday that El Salvador had just bought another 200 bitcoin, bringing the countrys holdings up to 400, worth around $20.5 million at current prices.
A United Airlines agent helps a customer check in for his flight at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago on Nov. 25, 2020. (Kamil Krzaczynski/Reuters)

United Airlines Staff With Vaccine Exemptions Told Theyll Be Placed on Unpaid Leave

United Airlines employees who are granted a medical or religious exemption have been informed that theyll be automatically placed on unpaid leave, a policy that one expert described as the harshest in America.

In memorandums to workers who have applied for an exemption to Uniteds COVID-19 vaccination mandate, workers were told they must become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within five weeks if their submission is denied or they will be separated from the company.

Employees whose accommodation requests are granted will be placed on leave for an undetermined amount of time, according to the memos, which were obtained by The Epoch Times.

Given our focus on safety and the steep increases in COVID infections, hospitalizations, and deaths, all employees whose request is approved will be placed on temporary, unpaid personal leave on October 2 while specific safety measures for unvaccinated employees are instituted, United told workers.

We can no longer allow unvaccinated people back into the workplace until we better understand how they might interact with our customers and their vaccinated coworkers, the company said, citing federal statistics that show a rise throughout the summer of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, although those metrics have fallen recently in some areas.

United, based in Chicago, informed workers in early August that they would need to get vaccinated against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus unless they were approved for an exemption from the mandate.

The Air Line Pilots Association declined to comment on the new unpaid leave policy. Other airline worker unions, which have generally been supportive of vaccine mandates, didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

Roger Gannam, assistant vice president of legal affairs at Liberty Counsel, a nonprofit legal education and policy group, said the policy is the harshest the organization has seen in the United States so far.

It certainly appears to be a bullying tactic and a continuation of Uniteds policy of making a religious exemption as difficult as possible, he told The Epoch Times.

United workers who applied for exemptions have told Liberty Counsel that United asked a multitude of questions in an apparent effort to discourage the efforts. Workers who decide to file legal challenges will have a strong argument that the company isnt using the least restrictive means to accommodate exemption requests, which is required by federal law, Gannam said.

Religious exemptions to the COVID-19 vaccines most commonly center on objections to how aborted fetal cells were used in the testing or manufacturing process. Medical exemptions typically include a physicians recommendation that a person not get a vaccine due to a certain underlying condition.
The Echo Reservoir in Utah is roughly at half capacity due to a severe ongoing drought that has affected the entire state. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

Utah Towns Grapple With Critical Water Supply Shortage

Many state drinking water reservoirs are less than half full due to severe drought

To say that Utahs water shortage in 2021 is severe doesnt do justice to the stark reality that many of the states lakes, creeks, and reservoirs are literally drying up.

And unless nature cooperates soon, some of these once-full bodies of potable water will resemble the desert areas that surround them.

At Echo Reservoir off Route 80 in central Utah, the 1,394-acre dam and reservoir sit at about 14 percent of total capacity, according to the Utah Division of Drinking Water (DDW).

While its meandering shoreline has been receding for months, parts of the reservoir are now filled with algal blooms caused by stagnant, shallow water.

This has been the worst drought in several years, said Ryan Dearing, the DDWs emergency response coordinator. Its certainly the worst one weve had in 20 to 25 years.

In a normal precipitation cycle, the region will experience a dry year followed by a wet year. But this doesnt appear to be a normal weather cycle, Dearing said.

Dearing told The Epoch Times that over the past several years, the winters have become increasingly drier, depleting the snowpack that replenishes water supplies during the April melt.

As it stands now, 32 of Utahs 42 reservoirs are below 55 percent of total capacity.

Drought pressures continue to negatively impact Utah farmers and ranchers causing decreased yields and extreme additional expenses for feed, transportation, and water hauling, according to the DDW.

The situation serves as a parched reminder of just how reliant Utah communities are on the natural water table, not just for drinking water but as sources of recreation and tourismtwo key economic drivers.

On March 17, Republican Gov. Spencer Cox signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency, citing Utahs extreme drought conditions that are affecting 90 percent of the state.

Weve been monitoring drought conditions carefully and had hoped to see significant improvement from winter storms, Cox said in a statement.

Statewide reservoir fill status. On Sept. 7, 2021. (Utah DNR)

Unfortunately, we have not received enough snow to offset the dry conditions. I ask Utahns to evaluate their water use and find ways to save, not only because of current drought conditions but also because we live in one of the driest states in the nation, he said.

In wetter years, Echo Reservoir teemed with tourists and recreation seekersthough less so today as the banks of the reservoir have dried up and pulled back.

The situation hasnt been much better at Scofield Reservoirnow 27 percent fulla 2,815-acre reservoir impounded by the Scofield Dam in Carbon County in central Utah.

In the nearby town of Scofield, which has a population of 25, residents drinking water comes from a nearby spring that supplies a municipal water tank.

The Scofield Reservoir in Utah has receded considerably due to an ongoing drought in Utah that has resulted in strict water conservation measures throughout the state. (Allan Stein/Epoch Times)

On Aug. 13, the town ran out of drinking water for several hours when tank output dropped to six gallons per minute from 100 gallons per minute.

Dearing said the worsening drought and increased consumption by seasonal tourists were the main reasons for the brief water emergency.

They brought in bottled water and a 6,000-gallon water truck to fill containers, Dearing said. Ordinarily, these are simple problems that are dealt with.

According to the DDW, this winters snowpack was about 70 percent of the average for the year. And theres little chance that nature will deliver the remaining 30 percent any time soon.

In the meantime, all of the states 29 counties are experiencing drought, and in mid-March, four of Utahs top 42 reservoirs were less than 20 percent full.

In the town of Hyde Park that has a population of 4,700, Mayor Charles Wheeler said the town in northern Utah almost ran out of water recently.

At the time of crisis, we had been running our main well pump 24/7 and utilizing the spring flow entirely, Wheeler told The Epoch Times. We recognized that if the trend each day at that time were to continue, Hyde Parks Upper water tank would empty completely within about 72 hours, leaving the upper zones in the city without water pressure and a part of the city dry.

Wheeler said the city sent a message to residents warning that without a change in consumption habits, the city would run out of water.

We had to ask our citizens to reduce their use. We asked them to cut use by 50 percentthey did, and enough have continued to conserve that our situation has stabilized, he said.

The city also has added a new water line from a reserve pump to be better able to meet the demand for water. This was accomplished without needing to obtain it from outside sources, Wheeler said.

We recently started construction of additional water storage by adding a new 2 million gallon tank to our distribution system along with the pipeline and pumps needed to supplement our present infrastructure and handle the pressures of growth, he added.

In the tiny town of Echo, which has a population of 49, an elderly resident lamented the statewide water shortage and the restrictions that have followed.

I saw at least one tanker truck and they said it was going to last us 10 days, said the resident, who asked to remain anonymous. A lot of people arent taking as many showers. MeIve been taking sponge baths for a month.
Vaccine mandates can attract or repel healthcare workers, but unlike urban hospitals, rural hospitals cannot afford to lose staff by mandating vaccines and pay large sums to attract new staff. (eldar nurkovic/Shutterstock)

Vaccine Mandates Affect Hospital Staffing Wars

For some hospitals, a lack of a vaccine mandate could become a competitive hiring advantage

In the rural northeastern corner of Missouri, Scotland County Hospital has been so low on staff that it sometimes had to turn away patients amid a surge in COVID-19 cases.

The national COVID-19 staffing crunch led to hospital CEO Dr. Randy Tobler hiring more travel nurses to fill the gaps. And the prices are steepwhat he called crazy, with rates of $200 per hour or more, which Tobler said his small rural hospital cant afford.

A little more than 60 percent of his staff is fully vaccinated. But even as COVID-19 cases rise, a vaccine mandate is out of the question.

If that becomes our differential advantage, we probably wont have one until were forced to have one, Tobler said. Maybe thats the thing that will keep nurses here.

As of Sept. 2, about 39 percent of U.S. hospitals had announced vaccine mandates, said Colin Milligan, a spokesperson for the American Hospital Association. Across Missouri and the nation, hospitals are weighing more than patient and caregiver health in deciding whether to mandate COVID-19 vaccines for staffers.

The market for health care labor, strained by more than a year and a half of coping with the pandemic, continues to be limited. While urban hospitals with deeper pockets for shoring up staff have implemented vaccine mandates and may even use them as a selling point to recruit staffers and patients, their rural and regional counterparts are left with hard choices as cases surge once again.

Obviously, its going to be a real challenge for these small, rural hospitals to mandate a vaccine when theyre already facing such significant workforce shortages, said Alan Morgan, head of the National Rural Health Association.

Without vaccine mandates, that could lead to a desperate cycle: Areas with fewer vaccinated residents likely have fewer vaccinated hospital workers as well, making them more likely to be hard hit by the Delta variant sweeping the United States. In the short term, mandates might drive some workers away. But the surge could also squeeze the hospital workforce further as patients flood in and staffers take sick days.

Rural COVID-19 mortality rates were almost 70 percent higher on average than urban rates for the week ending Aug. 15, according to the Rural Policy Research Institute.

The lack of a vaccine mandate can serve as a hospital recruiting tool. In Nebraska, the state veterans affairs agency prominently displays the lack of a vaccine requirement for nurses on its job site, The Associated Press reported.

It all comes back to workforce shortages, especially in more vaccine-hesitant communities, said Jacy Warrell, executive director of the Rural Health Association of Tennessee. She noted that some regional health care systems dont qualify for staffing assistance from the National Guard, as they have fewer than 200 beds. A potential vaccine mandate further endangers their staffing numbers, she said.

Theyre going to have to think twice about it, Warrell said. Theyre going to have to weigh the risk and benefit there.

The mandates are having ripple effects throughout the health care industry. The federal government has mandated that all nursing homes require COVID-19 vaccinations or risk losing Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, and industry groups have warned that workers may jump to other health care settings. Montana has banned vaccine mandates altogether, and the Montana Hospital Association has gotten one call from a health care worker interested in working in the state because of it, spokesperson Katy Peterson said.

It isnt just nurses at stake with vaccine mandates. Respiratory techs, nursing assistants, food service employees, billing staff, and other health care workers are already in short supply. According to the latest KFF/The Washington Post Frontline Health Care Workers Survey, released in April, at least one-third of health care workers who assist with patient care and administrative tasks have considered leaving the workforce.

The combination of burnout and the added stress of people leaving their jobs has worn down the health care workers that the public often forgets about, said interventional radiology tech Joseph Brown, who works at Sutter Roseville Medical Center outside of Sacramento, California.

That has a domino effect, Brown said: More of his co-workers are going on stress and medical leave as their numbers dwindle and hospitals run out of beds. He said nurses aides already doing backbreaking work are suddenly forced to care for more patients.

Explain to me how you get 15 people up to a toilet, do the vitals, change the beds, provide the care youre supposed to provide for 15 people in an eight-hour shift and not injure yourself, he said.

In Missouri, Tobler said his wife, Heliene, is training to be a volunteer certified medical assistant to help fill the gap in the hospitals rural health clinic.

Tobler is waiting to see if the larger St. Louis hospitals lose staff in the coming weeks as their vaccine mandates go into effect and what impact that could have throughout the state.

In the hard-hit southwestern corner of Missouri, CoxHealth President and CEO Steve Edwards said his health system, headquartered in Springfield, is upping its minimum wage to $15.25 an hour in order to compete for workers.

While the estimated $25 million price tag of such a salary boost will take away about half of the hospital systems bottom line, the investment is necessary to keep up with the competitive labor market and cushion the blow of the potential loss of staffers to the hospitals upcoming Oct. 15 vaccine mandate, according to Edwards.

Were asking people to take bedpans and work all night and do really difficult work and maybe put themselves in harms way, he said. It seems like a much harder job than some of these 9-to-5 jobs in an Amazon distribution center.

Two of his employees have died from COVID-19. In July alone, Edwards said 500 staffers were out, predominantly due to the virus. The vaccine mandate could keep that from happening again.

You may have the finest neurosurgeon, but if you dont have a registration person everything stops, he said. Were all interdependent on each other.

But Californias Brown, whos vaccinated, said he worries about his colleagues who may lose their jobs because theyre unwilling to comply with vaccine mandates.

California has mandated that health care workers complete their COVID-19 vaccination shots by the end of September. The state is already seeing traveling nurses turn down assignments there because they dont want to be vaccinated, CalMatters reported.

Since the mandate applies statewide, workers cant go work at another hospital nearby without vaccine requirements. Brown is frustrated that hospital administrators and lawmakers, who have zero COVID exposure, are the ones making those decisions.

Hospitals across the country posted signs that said, Health care heroes work here. Where is the reward for our heroes? he asked. Right now, the hospitals are telling us the reward for the heroes: If you dont get the vaccine, youre fired.

Lauren Weber, Midwest correspondent, is covering how Americas health system is workingand not workingfor patients in the region. This article was originally published on Kaiser Health News.
Violent Criminals With Harsher Sentences Less Likely to Be Rearrested, Study Shows

Violent criminals in the United States were less likely to be rearrested if they spent more time in prison before release, a large, long-term study has shown.

Nearly 77 percent of people imprisoned for a violent crime were arrested again within 10 years of release. The rate was lower, though, for those who served harsher sentences than for those who served lighter ones, according to the study conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BLS).

Of those who spent less than the median time in prison prior to release, 78.3 percent got rearrested. For those who served more than the median time, 66.4 percent were rearrested. Among those with the harshest sentences of more than 80 months, 57.5 percent were rearrested, according to the recently released report on the study (pdf).

The study followed a sample of 76,000 state prisoners selected from more than 400,000 released in 24 states in 2008. It saw more than four in five arrested again within a decade, recording nearly 2.2 million rearrests. Among those released, about a quarter were serving time for violent crimes.

The study also looked at sentencing data in 18 states, concluding that more than 60 percent of those released in 2008 ended up with another sentence within 10 years.

Among violent ex-cons, the most common reason for a rearrest was a public order offense, such as illegal gun possession, driving under the influence, probation or parole violation. Nearly two in three were busted for such a crime within a decade.

The second most common reason was a drug offense (36.3 percent) and the third was assault (35.4 percent). The distant fourth was car theft (22.1 percent).

Murderers were about twice as likely than others to be rearrested for murder, but overall, they were much more likely to get rearrested for a different, lesser offense.

Drug offenders were more likely than others to be rearrested for a drug offense, but 75 percent of them ended up rearrested for a different crime, more than a third of them for a violent crime.

Those who managed to avoid arrest in the first few years after release were progressively less likely to fall off the wagon later on. Among those not arrested in the years 1-3 after release, less than 15 percent were arrested in year 4. The percentage kept dropping to about 4 percent for those rearrested for the first time in year 10.

Prior to their release in 2008, nearly four in five of all the tracked prisoners were already arrested five times or more. The average number of prior arrests was over 12.

Most likely to be rearrested were those with the most prior arrests and those youngest (under 17) when first arrested in their lives, nearly 90 percent for both groups. But even among those with two or fewer prior arrests, nearly 60 percent were rearrested.

The study covered nearly 70 percent of prisoners released in 2008 and included all five of the most populous states, California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania. It didnt include some other states with large populations, such as Illinois, North Carolina, Virginia, Massachusetts, and Tennessee.
Last year after hearing that New York was likely to cancel its 9/11 Tribute in Light due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Amped Coffee Co. owners Keith and Jeanine Walashek took it upon themselves to create their own tribute.
Connecticut has millions of dollars of rental assistance available for tenants who earn up to or less than 80% of the area median income and were financially impacted by the pandemic.

The U.S. Department of the Treasury allocated money to every state, as well as certain qualifying municipalities, in January.

Connecticut received about $235.9 million in this round of emergency rental assistance. The state named its program UniteCT, and it began in March.

Up to $15,000 in rent and $1,500 in electricity assistance is available per household. That money can cover up to 12 months of back rent and up to three months of future rent. The assistance can be applied only to rental and electricity payments -- not pet, parking, late or other fees.

This program is addressing a heightened need following an order by the U.S. Supreme Court late last month that allowed evictions to resume again after a monthslong federal ban on evictions for nonpayment of rent. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention instituted the ban for qualifying evictions in September 2020.

Hearst Connecticut Media Group talked to housing experts and state officials and reviewed program guidelines to compile a list of 10 things you need to know when applying for rental assistance.

1. Applications are only available online.

To complete the application, youll need to use a link on the UniteCT website. You also need an email address.

If you dont have access to the internet or technology that allows you to log onto the portal, you can go to one of 16 resource centers around the state for help. UniteCT also has a bus that travels around Connecticut every weekday and every other Saturday to host events during which residents can apply for rental assistance. A schedule is available online, UniteCT director Dawn Parker said.

2. Youll need documentation for many parts of the application.

Many portions of the application require documentation. Most tenants will have to submit a copy of their lease, proof of income, identification documents and proof of financial hardship, among other documents. Connecticut does allow tenants to self-attest to many portions of the application and uses qualified census tracts to prove income in many instances.

Landlords will also have to upload their identity, W9, lease, rent arrearage documentation and proof of ownership, Parker said.

3. Housing counselors are available to help.

In addition to the UniteCT Mobile Bus Resources and resource centers across the state, UniteCT has staff members available to help residents fill out their applications and answer questions.

Staff members can be reached at 1-844-864-8328. For technical assistance, you can email a screenshot of the problem to DOH-UniteCT@ct.gov, according to the UniteCT website.

4. Landlords dont have to reduce the amount owed.

Early in the program, landlords were required to reduce the amount of rent owed by 15% in order to participate. After receiving feedback from landlords, state officials removed this requirement.

The money now covers up to 12 months of back rent and up to three months of future rent. Late fees are not included, Parker said.

5. If a landlord doesnt want to participate, tenants have options.

The application process requires input from both tenants and landlords. Some tenants have reported that landlords dont want to participate, said Pamela Heller, a staff attorney with the Connecticut Fair Housing Center.

UniteCT tries to work with landlords who are unwilling to participate in the program. Staffers call the landlord and try to resolve the issue.

If that doesnt work, UniteCT tries to help through eviction prevention programs and connecting residents to services. If tenants find a new place to live, UniteCT will cover the deposit and up to three months of rent, Parker said.

6. Immigrants can apply without having to submit their paperwork online.

For immigrants who may not want to submit their paperwork online, UniteCT has partnered with the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants. Tenants can contact the institute to fill out an application, according to the institutes website.

7. You should check in on your application status.

Heller works often with people who are trying to access rental assistance. Heller advises that tenants applying for rental assistance check in on their applications statuses often.

You have to stay on top of it, Heller said. You cant just submit your documents and wait. Read all your emails, communicate with them as much as you can.

8. Income eligibility is determined by household size.

Tenants who earn up to 80% of their area median income are eligible for assistance. The number varies by city and household size.

9. More money is set to arrive in the state.

The state has received about $235.9 million in rental assistance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The department is set to dole out a second round of funding in the coming months, following the passage of Congressional acts that aimed in part to help U.S. residents recover from the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

10. Landlords cant file evictions without a UniteCT case number.

An order from Gov. Ned Lamont under his public health emergency powers says that landlords cant file nonpayment evictions without a UniteCT case number. This means that landlords and tenants need to participate in the assistance system before an eviction for nonpayment of rent can be filed.

The governors emergency powers are set to expire this month.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell last week to 310,000, a pandemic low and a sign that the surge in COVID-19 cases caused by the delta variant has yet to lead to widespread layoffs.

Thursdays report from the Labor Department showed that jobless claims dropped from a revised total of 345,000 the week before. And at their current pace, weekly applications for benefits are edging toward their pre-pandemic figure of roughly 225,000.

But the spread of the delta variant this summer has put renewed pressure on the economy and the job market. On Wednesday, the Federal Reserve reported that U.S. economic activity downshifted in July and August, in part because of a pullback in dining out, travel and tourism related to concerns about the delta variant.

Still, the ongoing drop in applications for unemployment aid  six declines in the past seven weeks  indicates that most companies are holding onto their workers despite the slowdown. That trend should help sustain the economic rebound through the current wave of infections.

The pace of hiring, though, has weakened  at least for now. Last week, the government reported that hiring slowed dramatically in August, with employers adding just 235,000 jobs after having added roughly a million in both June and July. Hiring plummeted in industries that require face-to-face contact with the public, notably restaurants, hotels and retail. Still, some jobs were added in other areas, and the unemployment rate actually dropped to 5.2% from 5.4%.

While the August jobs report showed employers may have hit the pause button on hiring amid renewed concerns about the pandemic, the claims data suggest a reluctance to lay off workers amid a record number of job openings, said Nancy Vanden Houten, an economist at the consulting firm Oxford Economics.

The steady fall in weekly applications for unemployment benefits coincides with a scaling-back of aid for jobless Americans. This week, more than 8 million people lost all their unemployment benefits with the expiration of two federal programs that covered gig workers and people who have been jobless for more than six months. Those emergency programs were created in March 2020, when the pandemic first tore through the economy.

That cutoff isn't yet reflected in the weekly jobless claims report. The report's data on the emergency programs is delayed by two weeks. As of Aug. 21, 8.8 million people were receiving benefits from these two programs.

An additional 2.6 million people were receiving regular state unemployment aid. These recipients have just lost a $300-a-week federal unemployment supplement, which also expired this week.

Those cutoffs could also be a reason why applications for jobless aid are declining, said Eliza Forsythe, an economist at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign: Many of the unemployed may now believe they arent eligible for aid.

Some business owners had complained that the federal supplement made it harder to fill open jobs. Those pleas led governors in about 25 states to cancel the $300 payment early and to shut off the two emergency programs in most of those states as well. But academic research has found that so far, the early cut-offs in jobless benefits have led to only a small increase in hiring in those states.

Many economists express concern that the cut-off will lead to financial hardship because the resurgence of the pandemic will make it harder for some of the unemployed to find work. After previous recessions, emergency expansions of jobless aid ended at a time when far fewer people were still receiving benefits.
HONG KONG (AP)  A dozen Hong Kong pro-democracy activists pleaded guilty Thursday to participating in an unauthorized candlelight vigil to mark Beijing's bloody crackdown in Tiananmen Square.

The 12 were charged with participating in the unauthorized assembly in Victoria Park on June 4 last year, when thousands of Hong Kongers turned up to light candles and sing songs despite police warnings that they may be breaking the law. Seven of the 12 were also charged with inciting others to take part in the assembly.

Authorities have banned the vigils for the past two years, citing public health risks due to the pandemic, although critics believe the ban is part of an ongoing crackdown on dissent in the semiautonomous Chinese territory following months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Prior to the ban, the candlelight vigil event held on June 4 every year was attended by massive crowds and was the only large-scale public commemoration on Chinese soil of the 1989 crackdown in Beijing.

Those who pleaded guilty on Thursday include lawyer Albert Ho, former lawmaker Eddie Chu and Figo Chan, a former leader of the Civil Human Rights Front which was known for organizing large-scale pro-democracy rallies in the city.

The 12 are expected to enter mitigation pleas. They face up to five years in prison.

They are part of a larger group of activists who were arrested over the June 4 assembly. Some of them, including jailed Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai, have pleaded not guilty.

Prominent activist Joshua Wong and three others who were also charged over the June 4 vigil had previously pleaded guilty in April and were given prison sentences of between 4 to 10 months.

Separately, national security police on Thursday raided the closed June 4 museum in Hong Kong, a day after four core members of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China were arrested.

The alliance organizes the annual June 4 vigil and runs the museum each year.

This year's museum was closed three days after it opened to visitors following an investigation by authorities over its lack of appropriate licences. The alliance was later fined 8,000 ($1,000) Hong Kong dollars.

Hong Kong authorities have cracked down on dissent over the past year, after Beijing imposed a sweeping national security law in response to months of anti-government protests in 2019.

Dozens of pro-democracy activists have been arrested and the city has amended electoral laws to increase the number of seats for pro-Beijing legislators while reducing those that are directly elected.

Critics say the national security law, which has been used to arrest more than 100 people, rolls back freedoms promised to the former British colony when it was handed over to China in 1997. Hong Kong had been promised it could maintain freedoms not found on the mainland for 50 years, such as freedom of speech and assembly.
Geneseo, NY (14454)

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Elizabethtown, KY (42701)

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Scattered thunderstorms during the morning becoming more widespread this afternoon. High near 75F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%..

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Arrivals warned to not use saliva COVID-19 test kits

PHUKET: Health officials at the Phuket Check Point in Tha Chatchai have warned that they will not issue negative test confirmation documents for antigen test kits (ATKs) that checks saliva samples only. Arrivals who present saliva test ATKs only will be denied entry to the island.

COVID-19Coronavirushealthtourism

By The Phuket News

Thursday 9 September 2021, 11:42AM

People who bring their own ATKs to be tested at the checkpoint must use ATKs that test nasal cavity swabs, explained Phuket Public Health Office (PPHO) officer Nanthawan Rodrungrueng.

The news comes after reopening the island yesterday (Sept 8) to receiving domestic tourists who are fully vaccinated and test negative for COVID-19 within 72 hours of arriving.

All domestic visitors arriving at the checkpoint are now allowed to bring their own ATKs and use them at the checkpoint to prove they are not infected with COVID-19.

The reopening yesterday saw long traffic queues return to the checkpoint, with about 50 arrivals bringing their own ATKs and conducting the test at the checkpoint, Ms Nanthawan said.

None of the arrivals tested positive for COVID-19, Ms Nanthawan added.

However, several people were turned away after being refused entry, he said.

For arrivals who will bring their own ATKs, please use the kits which test by inserting the swab in the nasal cavity because we have agreed to not print out the confirmation document for those who use the kit which tests only saliva, Ms Nanthawan confirmed.

Today, we had four people using the saliva test kits, and they were denied entry to the island, she said.

One more thing, please use the test kits that are standardised and certified by the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] she added.

Some arrivals were denied entry to the island because they could not meet the entry requirements, such as they had not entered their travel details on www.gophuget.com or were unable to prove they had tested negative for the virus, Ms Nanthwan confirmed.

Mana Rattanaphan, 44, who brought his own ATK and conducted the test at the checkpoint, praised the move to reopen Phuket to people from other areas in Thailand.

Mr Mana explained that he is a Phuket native, but works in Krabi.

I had not come to see my mother in Phuket for two months since the island isolation came into effect. Now that the restrictions have been eased, I can now visit my mother two to three times a month, so I feel very good about the relaxed measures, Mr Mana said.

The move to allow people to buy their own ATKs also helps save him money and time, he added.
Digital Health Pass to be required for domestic flights

BANGKOK: The Public Health Ministry yesterday (Sept 8) confirmed the introduction of a Digital Health Pass for use by passengers on domestic flights.

CoronavirusCOVID-19Vaccinetourismtransport

By The Phuket News

Thursday 9 September 2021, 10:02AM

Image: Phuket Info Center Facebook page

The Ministry confirmed it has signed a three-year agreement with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT) for the use of the app on flights with seven airlines so far.

The seven airlines are Bangkok Airways, Thai Smile, Air Asia, Air Asia X, Nok Airways, Lion Airways and Vietjet Air.

It added that the app would receive and store information from the Health Ministry on an indivudals vaccine status. This will then be incorporated into the existing Mor Prom vaccine app which was initially devised for people to book COVID-19 appointments but which was modified in due course to merely report any adverse vaccine reactions encountered.

The Digital Health Pass is essentially an electronic health certificate in digital format that will contain three essential pieces of information relating to a persons vaccination details and COVID status:

1. COVID-19 vaccination data relating to the individual

2. The results of any RT-PCR tests from participating hospitals and the results of ATK tests from participating clinics and pharmacies.

3. The results of serum IgG antibody detection

All data stored in the app is secure, the Ministry assured. The app is encrypted to prevent tampering and data is stored using block chain technology that adheres to international security standards established by the Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA) and requires the consent of the document holder under the Personal Data Protection Act.

Citizens will receive a Digital Health Pass when they have successfully been administered two COVID-19 vaccinations or have successfully undergone COVID-19 testing at a hospital designated by the Ministry, which will be certified by the Ministry of Public Healths electronic stamp. Those who have been vaccinated but do not receive the Digital Health Pass on its release are advised the check with the hospital where they were vaccinated.

Sathit Pitutecha, deputy public health minister, said that as the Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) eases restrictions, a new set of precautionary measures are to be adopted by the aviation industry under a practice of universal COVID-19 prevention and the app is a key component of this.

At this stage, the Digital Health Pass will be used for domestic flights only and is expected to become operational soon. However, it may well be utilised for service in shops, restaurants and venues where customers are required to provide proof of their vaccine status at a later stage.
FDA considers jab for 3-year-olds

BANGKOK: Children aged three years and above might soon be able to receive the COVID-19 jab, the Food and Drug (FDA) Administration announced yesterday (Sept 8).

ChineseCoronavirusCOVID-19healthVaccine

By Bangkok Post

Thursday 9 September 2021, 11:27AM

People travel to Royal Thai Air Forces COVID-19 testing point at Thupatemi Stadium on Aug 30. Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb

Paisarn Dankum, FDA secretary general, said the Biogenetech company, the FDA-approved importers of Sinopharm, had on Sept 2 submitted a proposal to extend the age range for those who can receive the Sinopharm jabs from above 18 years old to above three years old.

He said the FDA is having the committee consider the proposal and will make a decision in less than 30 days.

The vaccine formula would be the same as the one which the FDA had approved before, Mr Paisarn said.

Currently, there are two vaccines that can be given to minors aged 12 years and above in Thailand - Pfizer and Moderna.

For jabs for three-year-olds and older, aside from Sinopharm, the GPO is also following up and asking for supporting documents from the manufacturers of Sinovac.

When asked about online vaccine advertisements, he said the vaccine was a controlled drug and the seller must ask for permission to advertise, especially when it comes to controlled substances, as special information must be indicated.

Also, online advertisements for drugs are a tricky area as permission must be granted. The wording in the advertisements must also correlate with the words that were used when the drug was registered.

Meanwhile, the Chulabhorn Royal Academy has launched a VACC 2 School campaign. The academy opened online registration for Sinopharm vaccine bookings for educational institutions to give free jabs to their 1018-year-old students.

This campaign aimed to provide students with immunity before the term starts. The condition is that students should not have had any jabs before and that they must have parental consent.

The campaign backers said this was the first time that vaccines have been used among those younger than 18. This campaign included 50,000 students and was fully booked within half a day.

The students would be vaccinated from Sept 20 and the academy would follow up the effects for a year.
Clearfield, PA (16830)

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Towamencin police Chief Tim Troxel, center, receives his department's certificate of accreditation status from James Adams, Accreditation Program Coordinator for the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association, left, and Tom Rudzinski, Chief of Manheim Township police department and Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (PLEAC) Chairman.
@rachelravina on Twitter

Rachel Ravina is a journalist covering news and lifestyle features in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. She grew up in Blue Bell and graduated from Penn State. She's also a news enthusiast who is passionate about covering topics people want to read.
CAIRO (AP)  A United Nations panel said Wednesday that at least 18,000 Yemeni civilians have been killed or wounded by airstrikes since the countrys war escalated in 2015.

In a report presented to the Human Rights Council, a group of experts named by the U.N. said that Yemens people have been subjected to some 10 airstrikes a day, a total of more than 23,000 since March 2015.

The report, which cited the Yemen Data Project for the airstrike figures, found both sides in the war to have violated international law. The project, a local data gathering operation, attributes all of the airstrikes to the Saudi-led coalition.

Meanwhile the coalitions rivals, the Houthi rebels, have shelled neighborhoods, camps for the displaced, an airport and markets, leading to the deaths of dozens, according to the U.N. experts.

Yemen has been convulsed by civil war since 2014 when the Iran-backed Houthis took control of the capital of Sanaa and much of the northern part of the country, forcing the government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi to flee to the south, then to Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi-led coalition, backed at the time by the U.S., entered the war in March 2015 to try restore Hadi to power, and threw its support behind his internationally backed government. Despite a relentless air campaign and ground fighting, the war has deteriorated largely into a stalemate, also spawning the worlds worst humanitarian crisis. The U.S. has since suspended its direct involvement in the conflict.

Neither the Saudi-led coalition nor the Houthis immediately responded to requests for comment on the report. In the past, both have leveled charges at their opponents for bearing the greater responsibility for civilian deaths.

The true toll of the conflict remains in question, due to limited access to some of the remote areas in which it is conducted. In December 2020, the U.N.'s humanitarian body said that the war had caused more than 200,000 deaths, including more than 100,000 from indirect causes such as starvation and preventable causes due to lack of basic services. The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project, or ACLED, which collects conflict data internationally, says that the war has killed 144,620 people between 2015 and now.

The U.N. report pointed towards the airstrikes having been committed by the Saudi-led coalition, without directly accusing it.

The Houthis do not have a functional air force, but they have launched attacks by explosive-laden drones that have left causalities among civilians. They rely on ground-fired missiles and rockets, largely.

The group criticized the coalition for failing to share details of how it determined what would be the targets of certain attacks that resulted in the deaths of children and women. It also said the coalitions own investigating body had found technical error" to be responsible in cases of civilian death without any subsequent changes to operations.

Both sides were found to have made targets of key health facilities and food supply chain infrastructure.

Among the shelling incidents investigated was a December 2020 attack at Aden international airport that killed at least 25 people moments after a plane carrying new members of the internationally recognized government arrived. U.N. experts have previously said the attack could be fairly conclusively attributed to Houthi-fired rockets.

The U.N. report said the continued sale of weapons to both sides of the war has exacerbated the fighting. It said countries that have continued arms transfers to Yemen are Canada, France, Iran, the United Kingdom and the United States.
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Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

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Cloudy skies. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 21C. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph..

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TOKYO (AP)  Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Thursday announced an extension of a coronavirus state of emergency in Tokyo and 18 other areas until the end of September, saying healthcare systems remain under severe strain, and that the continuing challenges of fighting the virus had led to his decision not to seek another term.

The state of emergency, which was to end on Sunday, was issued first in Okinawa in May and gradually expanded and extended as the country prepared to host the Olympics.

Despite the prolonged emergency, the largely voluntary measures have grown less effective as exhausted Japanese increasingly ignore them. Suga has come under fire for failing to deliver more effective measures and a convincing message to win people's support.

Suga said serious COVID-19 cases remain high and are still overwhelming many hospitals. He called on the people to continue to work remotely and observe other social distancing measures so that we can return to safe and prosperous daily lives."

The extension will cover a period when Japans government is in transition. Suga has announced that he will not run in a Sept. 29 race for his partys leadership. His successor in that race will almost certainly become the next prime minister.

Suga said he was forced to abandon plans for a possible snap election and personnel reshuffle ahead of the party leadership race because doing those while tacking COVID-19 required an incredible amount of energy." A run in the party race on top of that became increasingly difficult for Suga, who does not belong to any party faction that would help his campaign.

His government has faced sharp criticism over virus measures seen as too late and too small to be effective, and for holding the Olympics despite public opposition during the pandemic.

Suga said he has devoted himself to fighting the coronavirus since taking office a year ago, when little was known about it. We've had trouble securing hospital capacity and that's my regret, Suga said. It's still not enough.

Suga, known in the past for a hard-nosed ability to break through territorial divisions between ministries to get things done, achieved some results, including the speeding up of Japan's lagging vaccination process, but still faced widespread sectionalism across the bureaucracy that slowed things down. I believe we need a system that can oversee and respond to a (emergency) situation like the coronavirus in one place," Suga said.

He also noted that time-consuming Japanese procedures to approve vaccines and new treatments or secure medical staff were also obstacles that need to be addressed for better crisis management.

We need to stabilize medical systems and make sure that infections are steadily decreasing, Economy and Fiscal Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, who is in charge of COVID-19 measures, said earlier Thursday. He said tens of thousands of people are still recovering at home or in makeshift facilities with limited medical care.

The government, meanwhile, is studying a roadmap for easing restrictions around November when a large majority of the population is expected to be fully vaccinated, Suga said. The easing of restrictions would allow fully vaccinated people to travel, gather for parties or attend mass events.

Currently, about 49% of the people are fully inoculated and the rate is expected to exceed 60% by the end of September, Nishimura said.

Suga said the speeding up of vaccines is his major contribution as prime minister.

He said about 90% of elderly people have been fully vaccinated, and that has kept as many as 100,000 people from being infected and saved 8,000 lives, according to a health ministry estimate.

Dr. Shigeru Omi, the top medical adviser for Suga's government, said the vaccine progress since June is largely due to the prime minister's leadership, with the sharing of public health data between government ministries, health centers and other organizations still disorganized.

Japan has done much better than other developed countries in the number of cases and deaths without having a lockdown, but the country has been struggling with new waves of infections propelled by more contagious new variants. Japan has reported about 1.65 million cases and 16,500 deaths.
EDWARDSVILLE  A Granite City woman faces multiple felony charges.

Amy J. Cox, 36, of Granite City, was charged Sept. 8 with three counts of unlawful delivery of methamphetamine and one count of unlawful use of property/methamphetamine, all Class 2 felonies.

The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department.

According to court documents, on June 9 and 16, and July 12, Cox allegedly delivered less than five grams of methamphetamine to confidential informants.

The unlawful use of property charge stems from allowing her home to be used to promote the other crimes charged.

Bail was set at $150,000.

Other drug-related felony charges filed Sept. 8 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 Christopher L. Price, 41, of Granite City, was charged with unlawful delivery of methamphetamine, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. On Aug. 12 Price allegedly delivered less than five grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Bail was set at $50,000.

 Stephanie M. Patterson, 37, of Alton, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On May 20 Patterson allegedly was found to be in possession of more than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $40,000.

 John M. Moore, 51, of Red Bud, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Pontoon Beach Police Department. On July 21 Moore allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Colin A. Banigan, 33, of the 1200 bloc of E. Seventh Street, Alton, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On April 24 Banigan allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. No bail was noted.

 Joshua K. Morris, 37, of Alton, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On April 28 Morris allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $25,000.

 Jamie R. Staggs, 44, of Granite City, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Collinsville Police Department. On June 2 Staggs allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Marissa A. Harvey, 27, of the 3100 block of W. Chain of Rocks Road, Granite City, was charged with unlawful possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Pontoon Beach Police Department. On Jan. 26 Harvey allegedly was found to be in possession of less than five grams of methamphetamine. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Ronald C. Patterson, 55, of Wood River, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Illinois State Police. On May 13 Patterson allegedly was found to be in possession of less than 15 grams of cocaine. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Matthew J. Terpening, 39, of Godfrey, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On June 23 Terpening allegedly was found to be in possession of less than 15 grams of fentanyl. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Sara A. Stiles, 31, of the 17300 block of Little Piasa Road, Dow, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On Jan. 13 Stiles allegedly was found to be in possession of less than 15 grams of codeine. Bail was set at $15,000.

 James R. Jablonski Jr., 39, of the 400 block of S. Aurora Street, Collinsville, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Collinsville Police Department. On May 19 Jablonski allegedly was found to be in possession of less than 15 grams of fentanyl. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Courtney L. Shelby, 23, of Bethalto, was charged with unlawful possession of cannabis with intent to deliver, a Class 3 felony. The case was presented by the Glen Carbon Police Department. On July 14 Shelby allegedly was found to be in possession of more than 30 grams of cannabis with intent to deliver. Bail was set at $15,000.

 Blake A. Sakosko, 22, of Belleville, was charged with unlawful possession of cannabis (more than 100 grams), a Class 4 felony. The case was presented by the Collinsville Police Department. On June 13 Sakosko allegedly was found to be in possession of more than 100 grams of cannabis. Bail was set at $15,000.
SKOPJE, North Macedonia (AP)  North Macedonia on Wednesday marked the 30th anniversary of its independence from Yugoslavia with a military parade in the capital Skopje and ceremonies around the country.

Prime Minister Zoran Zaev led the celebrations, attending the parade that also included folk dancers, fire service rescuers, paramedics, and farmers who drove their tractors through the city center.
EAST ST. LOUIS  Illinois State Police are seeking the publics help in identifying a 3-year-old girl found dead Sept. 5.

At about 9:28 p.m. Sunday, East St. Louis Police responded to the Roosevelt Homes in the 1300 block of north 44th Street, East St. Louis, for a gunshot victim. Upon arrival police officers located the girl who was transported by ambulance to an area hospital where she succumbed to her injury on Sept. 7.

The preliminary investigation indicates occupants of a dark colored sedan began shooting at a crowd of people standing outside Building 47 in the Roosevelt Homes. People within the group returned fire and, during the exchange of gunfire, a bullet entered Building 47 and struck the victim.

Following the shooting, the suspects fled the area.

This incident is being jointly investigated by East St. Louis Police, and the Illinois State Police Public Safety Enforcement Group (PSEG). Anyone with any information regarding the investigation is asked to contact Illinois State Police Special Agent Emmarie Snyder at 618-301-6182. If interested in a reward and you want to remain anonymous, call CRIMESTOPPERS at 866-371-8477. People can also visit https://www.stlrcs.org/victims/ to view the CRIMESTOPPERS Homicide Victim Bulletin.
MADRID (AP)  Protests in Spain to denounce a rise in hate crimes against LGBTQ people went ahead on Wednesday after a high-profile case that had grabbed attention across the country took an unexpected twist.

Thousands gathered in Madrid and Barcelona three days after a young man told police that he had been brutally assaulted by a group of hooded assailants in the Spanish capital. He said that his unidentified aggressors used a knife to slash his lip and carve a homophobic slur into one of his buttocks.

On Wednesday, however, the Interior Ministry said that the young man had amended his statement to investigators to say that he had consented to the wounds.

The police investigation remained open.

Despite the turn in the case, the protests went ahead as planned. Participants said it was necessary to denounce the overall rise in reported cases of hate crimes as reflected in official statistics.

We are tired of being attacked at any given moment. 58-year-old Rafaela Corrales said in Madrid. I dont know if this last attack in Madrid is true or not. I dont really care, since we suffer all types of violence all year long.

One of the groups organizing the protest in the capital, Movimiento Marika Madrid, said that the change of the young mans story did not take anything away from their cause.

Because we have also seen in recent days attacks in Toledo, in Melilla, in Castellon and in Vitoria, the group said on social media. Our lives are at stake.

In July, the death of a 24-year-old man in an attack prompted widespread condemnation after friends of the victim claimed he was targeted and beaten to death for being gay. There has also been a steady trickle of victims of hate crimes speaking out in recent weeks.

Hate crimes, including those against LGBTQ people, increased 9% in the first six months of the year compared to 2019, the year before the pandemic confinement and curfews, according to Spains interior ministry.

Activist groups claim that official statistics capture only a fraction of the problem because many incidents arent reported.

The alleged attack in Madrid was quickly taken up by Spain's leading political parties.

Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, a Socialist, said he was calling a meeting of his government's committee on hate crimes for Friday over which he would personally preside.

Not one step backward. We are going to continue advancing in tolerance, respect and diversity, Sanchez said Wednesday. In Spain there is no place for hate.

However, Rocio Monasterio, a senior member of the far-right Vox party, used the change of story by the young man to criticize what she called the lack of presumption of innocence in Madrids regional law against alleged hate crimes.

___

Joseph Wilson reported from Barcelona. Renata Brito contributed to this report from Barcelona.
ALTON  Three people were airlifted to St. Louis hospitals late Wednesday night following shootings in Alton.

Shots rang out after 11 p.m. Wednesday near the cul-de-sac in the 700 block of Oakwood Avenue. Emergency personnel indicated Alton firefighters arriving at the scene found three gunshot victims.

All three, whose names were not available Thursday morning, ended up being airlifted by helicopter ambulances to St. Louis hospitals. At least one of the injured was reported as suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

This was not a random act of violence and this investigation has revealed that the subjects involved were familiar with each other, said Alton Police Chief Marcos Pulido.

Alton firefighters rushed two of the victims to the hospital while Alton Memorial Ambulance transported the third. Two of the victims were airlifted from St. Anthonys Medical Center, with a third from Alton Memorial Hospital.

At the scene, Alton Police had an area at the end of the cul-de-sac, including several vehicles, surrounded by crime scene tape. Multiple patrol units and detectives were visible and a patrol officer was seen recording the license plate numbers of vehicles on the short street.

Dozens of people from Oakwood Estates came outside to watch the scene, and at least a dozen family members and friends watched and waited for news outside the emergency room at St. Anthonys Medical Center.

No additional information was available early Thursday.
To the Editor,

It is unbelievable how the left is trying to spin the Afghanistan withdrawal as a huge success and blame all that went wrong on President Trump. Where to begin with Jim Grandones recent letter to the editor. Talk about playing someone as a fool. His letter attempts to do that in spades and is so full of falsehoods it would make your head spin.

It certainly didnt take long for the delusional left to follow right along with the Biden administrations latest spin on the disastrous retreat from Afghanistan. No matter how much lipstick you paint on it, to any sane person the withdrawal from Afghanistan still comes out looking like a pig.

The airlift evacuated very few American citizens and the refugees boarding the planes were mostly unvetted Afghanis taking the place of what should have been American citizens and Afghani interpreters for the US military. It was only because of the complete failure of proper planning by the Biden administration that it came to such a disastrous panicked withdrawal where most of the people flying out were unvetted Afghanis and many likely future terrorists.

Grandones letter tries to make it look as though President Trump was responsible for all of the mistakes made as if deals negotiated by president Trump could not be changed. What hogwash. Biden set the date for the withdrawal, Biden allowed the Isis and Al-Qaeda prisoners to be released, Biden shutdown the Bagram airport early on so it was unavailable for evacuations. Biden was responsible for all of the mistakes.

Illegal aliens have been streaming across the southern border ever since Biden invited them in and laid out the red carpet for them when he first took office. Biden did away with the successful Remain in Mexico policy of the Trump administration. On August 24th the Supreme Court ordered the Remain in Mexico policy be reinstated but nine days after the Supreme Court ordered the Biden administration to restart the Remain in Mexico program border agents are saying the program hasnt yet been reinstated.

This lawless administration has no respect for the constitution so why would they honor this Supreme Court decision. After all, they ignored the Supreme Court by keeping the eviction moratorium going for an additional month. The unlawfulness of this administration knows no bounds. As Biden would say Not hyperbole, not a joke.

Jim Schwegel

Godfrey
Scranton, PA (18503)

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London, KY (40741)

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Rarely do you get the chance to have an early glimpse at the future of motoring as car-makers face pressure to become increasingly green.

But that was my privilege this week when I was granted an exclusive visit to German car giant BMW's research and development centre on the outskirts of Munich. It is the size of a small town and employs more than 4,000 engineers, experts, technicians and even psychologists, and bosses say it is developing the environmentally-friendly cars of tomorrow today.

My visit coincided with the opening of the IAA Mobility Show taking place just up the road. Traditionally at this time, Germany's biggest motor show would take place in Frankfurt. But against the background of environmental concerns and imminent bans on selling new petrol and diesel models at the end of the decade, motor manufacturers decided it was time for a change.

Zooming into the future: The new all-electric BMW iX SUV

So Frankfurt moved to beautiful Munich  with its modern trams and many cyclists  and the show became not just about motor cars but rather 'mobility' in all its forms, with green technology, electric motor bikes, scooters and bicycles also to the fore.

ECO-FRIENDLY INTENTIONS

BMW alone has set ambitious targets to slash emissions and to make all of its vehicles 100 per cent fully recyclable within 20 years. But the company also wanted to demonstrate that sustainability can go hand in hand with luxury. Its guiding principles are: rethink, reduce, re-use and recycle to mitigate global warning.

BMWs are manufactured using nearly 30 per cent recycled and reused material on average. The company is working on increasing that in next-generation cars to 50 per cent and, ultimately, 100 per cent.

To help communicate these aims, chief executive Oliver Zipse unveiled in Munich a futuristic iVision Circular zero-emissions electric car made entirely from recycled materials and fully recyclable at the end of its life.

It was developed at BMW's FIZ research and development centre, which I visited. The company said: 'The four-seat BMW iVision Circular looks ahead to a compact, all-electric vehicle for the year 2040 focused squarely on sustainability and luxury.'

Quick-release fasteners for the wheels, seats and instrument panel, and a cord tie in the rear seat bench show how key elements can be quickly detached at the end of the car's life.

Other features include the BMW logo being engraved and the vehicle badge lasered to avoid add- on parts, bumpers are manufactured from recycled plastic and exterior surfaces are created from anodised recycled aluminium, not paint.

Slightly transparent tyres are made from certified, sustainably grown rubber. 3D printing minimises waste, with surplus material recycled, and seats use upholstery made from recycled plastic.

BMW said the iVision Circular is separate from the next generation of its electric and fossil fuel vehicles but many of the 'green' elements will be included.

THE GRAND REVEAL

Visiting BMW's new 90million advanced simulation centre soon afterwards, I saw a month before it goes live how 14 advanced driving simulators were helping BMW reduce carbon by removing the need to build early prototypes. Inside a giant pod that resembles a Martian from War Of The Worlds a test driver in a car follows a lifelike road on a 360-degree surround screen, while the machine on stilts races back and forth in a vast 400 sq m arena, replicating the effect of a real highway.

Safe as houses: BMW Concept iX5 Hydrogen Protection VR6

This work has gone into the development of the new all-electric BMW iX SUV and BMW i4 sport-back saloon which received their motor show premieres in Munich.

Fully electric versions of the high volume BMW 5 Series, small hatchback, X1, flagship 7 Series saloon and the successor of the Mini Countryman are already in the pipeline.

Hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles will be an important secondary measure to reduce emissions, says BMW, which showed an iX5, and an armoured high-security version. Bosses revealed they shot at the car and even exploded grenades underneath to prove its safety.

In the driving seat: Ray Massey at BMW's research and development centre on the outskirts of Munich

The firm is also preparing to launch a next generation 'New Class' of cars  based around a flexible platform that will allow both electric and hydrogen vehicles to run off the same basic underpinnings.

An electric BMW e-bike range and a prototype electric CE02 motorbike were also showcased in Munich.

STRIKE A BALANCE

However, car-makers will have to tread carefully during the transition to a greener future. There's a real danger that some of the rhetoric espoused by fundamentally profit-driven car industry corporates will be dismissed as 'greenwash'  appeasing customers with real environmental concerns while making no changes.

BMW vigorously refutes any 'greenwash' charge and insists its environmental ambitions are sincere and that it is taking concrete steps to achieve them. But Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) should be careful it doesn t become too Bavarian Motor Woke.

Cool and the gang: The prototype electric BMW motor bike set to go into production

BMW's social media team has come under fire for mocking on Twitter the baby-boomer generation  alienating their heartland customers across Europe where the average age is around 54  in a campaign for the new all-electric iX SUV that spectacularly backfired.

Opening the IAA Mobility show German Chancellor Angela Merkel  in one of the last acts on her 'farewell tour' before she steps down later this month - said she welcomed the show extending beyond just the car to wider mobility, but noted: 'The focus will of course continue to be on the car. We will see many world premieres here and also cars of the future. I am pleased that the trend towards electro-mobility is now clearly visible.'

Looking ahead: BMW chairman Oliver Zipse

BMW chairman Oliver Zipse said: 'The BMW i Vision Circular symbolises our ambition to be a pioneering force in the development of a circular economy.

'Our overriding aim is to reduce CO2 emissions throughout a vehicle's entire life cycle.'

BMW simulation chief Dr Joost Venrooij told me during my visit to their research centre: 'We are driving to day the cars of the future. We take the road into the laboratory.'

Shame that Extinction Rebellion and other environmental protesters trying to block the surrounding roads to the green motor show were stubbornly and unfairly turning a deaf ear to the sound environmental messages the firm was sending out.

Five more stars from Munich

Volkswagen ID Life: Unveiled in prototype form, VWs entry-level electric hatchback will be on sale in the UK priced from 17,000 to 21,000 and will likely carry the name ID.2 when it goes into production.

Renault Megane E-Tech: Flying the flag for France, a real-world production-ready all-electric family car available to order from early next year priced from around 30,000 and with a range of about 292 miles.

Cupra Urban Rebel: A Spanish electric hot-hatch thats set to arrive in the UK from around 2025 priced from about 17,000 thanks to the Cupra brand. Expect 0-62mph in about 3.2 seconds and a range of 180 miles.

Mercedes Maybach EQS: This vast flagship range-topping luxury SUV has a huge grille and a 160,000 price-tag to match. Good job it includes a champagne fridge. Expect a range of around 373 miles.

City Transformer: Start-up Israeli firm City Transformer showed their shape-shifting folding car that reduces in width from 1.4 metres in performance mode to just one metre in tighter urban streets. Priced from 10,700 for early-bird pre-orders and then 13,700.
Businesses have borne the brunt of the 37billion tax raid launched by Boris Johnson's government so far this year.

The Prime Minister and his chancellor Rishi Sunak have announced three major tax rises in 2021 - two in the Budget in March and another this week to tackle the NHS backlog and fix social care.

The hikes in corporation tax, income tax and national insurance will raise 37.4billion a year - leaving Britain with the highest tax burden in history.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and chancellor Rishi Sunak have announced three major tax rises already in 2021 to tackle the NHS backlog and fix social care

And it is feared more will follow as soon as the Budget next month, as ministers battle to shore up the nation's finances in the wake of the pandemic.

Analysis by the Mail shows that businesses have been hit hardest by the raids so far, footing 21.8billion of the bill.

The remaining 15.6billion, including a 600million hike in dividend tax announced this week, will fall on individuals.

The Prime Minister has insisted that Covid and social care crisis left the Government with no choice but to raise taxes  breaking his election promises in the process.

But there has been a furious backlash from business leaders who argue their rising contribution to the Exchequer will hit entrepreneurship, job creation and economic growth just as Britain emerges from the pandemic.

Tim Martin, chief executive at Wetherspoon, warned companies cannot afford tax rises. 'Boris is a big spender,' he said. 'He's always looking for big ideas to excite the public. What it means for this country is debt and taxes. We can't afford his expensive tastes.'

And experts said that although business appears to have been asked to foot most of the bill, the higher taxes will in fact be paid for by the public in the form of fewer jobs, lower wages and higher prices.

Annabel Denham, director of communications at the Institute of Economic Affairs, said: 'Businesses have proven themselves remarkably resilient during this pandemic.

But their reward for enduring months of uncertainty, shutdown, social distancing and curfews is a Tory tax grab that will dampen confidence and stunt growth.

'Higher taxes will reduce demand, discouraging investment and hiring. They will deter entrepreneurship and innovation by reducing the potential gains for risk takers.

'But, in the end, companies don't pay taxes: people do. Employers' national insurance is a crude payroll tax that will lead to fewer job opportunities and lower wages.

An increase in corporation tax will be passed on to employees in the same way, though the burden will also be borne by consumers, in the form of higher prices, and shareholders, in the form of lower returns.

'Everyone, especially after 18 months of hardship, will suffer.'

In the Budget in March, Sunak increased the main rate of corporation tax from 19 per cent to 25 per cent, raising 17.2billion by 2025-26.

At the same time, the Chancellor froze income tax thresholds, meaning the points at which people start paying the 20p rate and 40p rate do not rise, even as wages do.

With more people caught in higher rates of tax  in a process known as 'fiscal drag'  the Treasury expects to raise 8.2billion in 2025-26.

The 25.4billion twin raid was a major contributing factor to what turned out to be the biggest tax-raising Budget since 1993.

Six months on, Johnson this week unveiled plans to raise another 12billion a year through an extra 1.25 per cent levy on national insurance and dividends.

The national insurance hike, on employer contributions and those made by individuals, will raise the lion's share, or 11.4billion. The dividend tax will raise another 600million.

Employers have typically paid around 40 per cent of national insurance while employees and the self-employed pay the rest. If that pattern is followed in future, the increase will cost businesses 4.6billion and workers 6.8billion.

Britain now faces the highest sustained tax burden in history.

According to the Taxpayers' Alliance, it will reach 35.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

The Institute for Fiscal Studies said it has never been sustained above this level before, though it was higher briefly in 1969 and the 1940s before retreating.

Suren Thiru, head of economics at the British Chambers of Commerce, said the higher business taxes will 'dampen the entrepreneurial spirit needed to drive the recovery'.

He said: 'Businesses generate prosperity, create jobs and support communities. The focus should be creating the best possible environment for them to grow and thrive so they can sustainably deliver the tax revenue needed to support public services and the wider economy.'
Fraud rap: Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes

Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes was branded a liar and a cheat on day one of her trial, which could see her face 20 years in jail.

The court case in San Jose, California, is one of the most closely watched in corporate history. Holmes is charged with fraud against patients and investors of her defunct medical tech company.

This is a case about fraud  about lying and cheating to get money, Robert Leach, a member of the prosecution team, said in his opening statement.

Holmes, 37, is accused of making false claims about the company, including that its devices designed to draw a drop of blood from a finger prick could run a range of tests more quickly and accurately than a conventional laboratory.

Holmes, who founded Theranos in 2003, claimed its Edison machines could quickly conduct a wide range of blood tests.

The US has accused Holmes of knowing that the tests were limited and unreliable, harming patients who used them, and overstating Theranoss business deals and performance.

Holmes dazzled companies such as Walgreens and Safeway and other investors with false claims including suggesting the technology had been vetted by pharmaceutical companies, Leach said.

A Stanford University dropout who started Theranos in 2003 age 19, her ideas and image garnered a following of rich and powerful men including former presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, who appointed her as an ambassador for global entrepreneurship.

If convicted, Holmes could face up to 20 years behind bars.
Lloyd's of London swung back to a profit in the first six months of this year, amid an improved underwriting performance.

The specialist insurance market saw aggregate pre-tax profits come in at 1.4billion over the period, against a 400million loss at the same point a year ago.

Lloyds' underwriting profit was 1billion and gross written premiums across the market increased to 20.5billion, up from 20billion in the first half of last year.

Return to profit: Lloyd's of London swung back to a profit in the first six months of this year

The market said it doled out nearly 10billion worth of claims in the first half, which it explained was aiding the recovery of companies and broader economies from the pandemic.

Many insurers suffered last year due to hefty pandemic-linked claims for incidents like cancelled events. But, after writing exclusions into contracts for the pandemic and raising premiums, they have performed strongly this year.

Speaking to Reuters, Lloyd's chairman said the market was likely to be exposed to around 10 per cent of the billions of dollars of insured losses from Hurricane Ida.

'Typically, if you looked at Lloyd's' exposure to those kinds of events, it would be about 10% of that number,' chairman Bruce Carnegie-Brown, said.

He added: 'Because of our market share in the US, we have a bigger exposure than we would, for instance, to continental flooding.'

Impact: Speaking to Reuters, Lloyd's chairman said the market was likely to be exposed to around 10 per cent of the billions of dollars of insured losses from Hurricane Ida

John Neal, Lloyds chief executive, said: 'Lloyds has successfully repositioned the market for sustainable, profitable growth as evidenced in this strong set of financial results.

'I am encouraged to see that market performance has improved as a result of our ongoing remediation efforts. This, as well as our exceptionally strong balance sheet, brings Lloyds performance in line with our global peer group.

'Alongside performance, we are making great strides on all our strategic priorities which focus on improving the culture in the market, the Future at Lloyds digital transformation, and sustainability, climate and inclusion which underpin our purpose.'

Crucially, the market's combined ratio, which is a measure of performance that includes expenses and claims as a proportion of premiums, fell from a loss-making 110.4 per cent in the final half of 2020 to an improved level of 92.2 per cent in the first half of this year.

Lloyds said premium rates increased by 9.9 per cent over the period, 'continuing the trend of 15 consecutive quarters of positive rate movement.' The market claimed it also saw 'high customer retention and new growth for the first time in four years.'
By Agustinus Beo Da Costa

JAKARTA, Sept 9 (Reuters) - The death toll from a blaze that tore through an Indonesian jail has risen to 44, as authorities pledged to look at whether more inmates could receive rehabilitation for drug-related offences to ease chronic overcrowding in the prison system.

Wednesday's fire at the penitentiary in Tangerang, on the outskirts of the capital Jakarta, took hold in a prison block housing more than three times the number of prisoners it was designed to contain.

Built for 38 inmates there were 122, mostly imprisoned for drug-related offences, detained at the time of the blaze, which was one of the most deadly in Indonesia in recent years.

The initial death toll stood at 41, but three more prisoners who were suffering severe burns died overnight in hospital, Rika Aprianti, a spokeswoman from the prison department at the Indonesian justice ministry said on Thursday.

The ministry said that all the victims of the fire, which police suspect may have been caused by an electrical fault, were inmates.

The incident has triggered calls for Indonesia to reconsider its strict narcotics laws, which see a disproportionately high number of inmates imprisoned for drug-related offences, including many who are small-time users.

Visiting the site of the fire on Wednesday, Indonesia's chief security minister Mahfud MD said that out of 200,000 inmates detained across the country, more than half were incarcerated for drug-related crimes.

The high rates, he said, warranted a re-evaluation.

"So, I had a discussion with the justice minister. We talked about drug dealers and how they should be punished based on a final verdict," he said.

"But the victims, the users who become victims, we will think about whether they should all be sent to prison or not. Is it better to rehabilitate them?" (Writing by Kate Lamb; Editing by Ed Davies)
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PHOENIX -- Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says President Joe Biden is overreaching with his new requirement for employees of large businesses to be vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19.

The Republican governor said the Biden rule requires pushback and response but declined to say how the state would respond.

Ducey has encouraged people to get vaccinated but has worked aggressively to block mandates of all kinds, including for vaccines and face coverings.

Ducey said the Biden administration rule will lead people to quit their jobs, leaving businesses and schools in a lurch. ___

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 In COVID-slammed Idaho, schools risk buckling hospitals

 WHO: Africas already thin vaccine supply to drop by 25%

 President Biden to lay out plans to boost vaccine uptake

 Long COVID can affect children and teens as well as adults

___

 See AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.

___

HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles board of education has voted to require students 12 and older to be vaccinated against the coronavirus if they attend in-person classes in the nations second-largest school district.

The boards vote Thursday makes Los Angeles by far the largest of a very small number of districts with a vaccine requirement. Nearby Culver City imposed a similar policy last month for its 7,000 students. LA has about 630,000 students.

Under the plan for Los Angeles, students 12 and up who participate in sports and other extracurricular activities need to be fully vaccinated by the end of October. Others would have until Dec. 19.

___

MINNEAPOLIS __ More than 100 Minnesota schools from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade reported infections last week as students returned to classrooms across the state, according to a weekly COVID-19 report released by the Minnesota Department of Health on Thursday.

The figure is up from previous weeks but remains a fraction of the number of infections reported in schools during a surge in virus cases statewide late last year.

Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said during a Thursday briefing that officials remain concerned about the growth in cases in school and childcare settings and the broader implications that has for transmission in communities as students go back to school. Malcolm stressed vaccinations for all people 12 and older, as well as masking for all students, teachers, staff and visitors regardless of vaccination status, among other mitigation methods.

The decisions we make as individuals dont just affect us individually, they have ripple effects that go deep into the community, she said. We do know, all of us, how important in-person learning is for students and we need to take the right actions to make that in-person learning possible and safe.

Just over 72% of Minnesotans 16 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and more than 68% have been fully inoculated as of Tuesday, according to a state dashboard.

-

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said President Joe Bidens order that private businesses require employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is not the right answer for boosting vaccination rates.

I have been consistent in the freedom of businesses to require their employees to be vaccinated, and I have opposed the government from saying businesses cannot exercise that freedom, Hutchinson, a Republican who chairs the National Governors Association, said in a statement. The same principle should protect the private sector from government overreach that requires them to vaccinate all employees.

Some of Arkansas largest employers are already requiring workers to get vaccinated.

___

HELENA, Mont.  Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte is calling a new vaccination mandate that could affect as many as 100 million Americans unlawful and un-American.

Gianforte, a Republican, said in a Tweet on Thursday that he is committed to protecting Montanans freedoms and liberties against this gross federal overreach.

Montana is the only state in the U.S. with a law that makes it illegal for private employers to require vaccines as a condition for employment. That new requirement appears to clash with parts of the mandate, which tells all private businesses with 100 or more employees to require them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or get tested weekly for the respiratory virus.

The Montana law was passed earlier this year by the Republican-dominated state Legislature despite pushback from the states hospital association and other medical groups straining under the weight of a new surge in COVID-19 infections.

A Montana Hospital Association spokesperson said in an email on Thursday that their legal counsel will evaluate the new mandate to determine how to comply with federal and state law.

__

JACKSON, Miss.  Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves sharply criticized President Joe Bidens announcement that employers with at least 100 workers would have to require the workers to be vaccinated or tested weekly for COVID-19.

The President has no authority to require that Americans inject themselves because of their employment at a private business, Reeves wrote on Twitter. The vaccine itself is life-saving, but this unconstitutional move is terrifying. This is still America, and we still believe in freedom from tyrants.

___

OLYMPIA, Wash. - Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday that starting next week, the states indoor mask mandate will be expanded to include outdoor events with 500 or more attendees, regardless of vaccination status.

The new requirement  which takes effect Monday  comes days after a similar outdoor mask mandates took effect in the states two most populous counties, King and Pierce, due to rising COVID-19 cases.

An indoor mask mandate, regardless of vaccination status, has been in place in Washington since Aug. 23. Last month, Oregon was the first state to reinstitute a statewide mask requirement for outdoor public areas where people are close together.

___

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden has announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant.

Speaking at the White House Thursday, Biden sharply criticized the roughly 80 million Americans who are not yet vaccinated, despite months of availability and incentives.

Weve been patient. But our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us, he said, all but biting off his words. The unvaccinated minority can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

The expansive rules mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans. And the roughly 17 million workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.

Biden is also signing an executive order to require vaccination for employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government  with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.

Biden announced the new requirements in a Thursday afternoon address from the White House as part of a new action plan to address the latest rise in coronavirus cases and the stagnating pace of COVID-19 shots that has raised doubts among the public over his handling of the pandemic.

___

HARTFORD  Connecticut officials expressed concerns about inconsistent mask wearing and people shunning coronavirus vaccines after 37 people became infected in outbreaks at a summer camp, group home and a party.

Gov. Ned Lamont and acting state heath Commissioner Deidre Gifford said most of the people who became infected were not vaccinated and some of them spread the virus to relatives who did not go to those locations. All three outbreaks happened last month. Officials did not release the locations of the three outbreaks.

Also Thursday, the state Department of Correction reported that a 78-year-old state prison inmate died after contracting the coronavirus for a second time.

The male prisoner was detained at the MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield and died early Wednesday morning. Officials said he had several underlying health issues and had recovered from his first coronavirus infection last December.

The inmate, who was serving a 40-year sentence for sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor, was the first state prisoner to die from COVID-19 since January and the 20th inmate to die during the pandemic.

__

BOSTON  The U.S. Education Department has announced a new grant program for schools that get state funding withheld for defying state mask policies.

The measure aims to push back against governors in Iowa, South Carolina and other states attempting to block schools from requiring masks among students and teachers. Some states, including Florida, have withheld the salaries of school leaders who have required masks in defiance of state orders.

Those schools will soon be able to apply for federal grants under Project SAFE to make up for any money lost due to implementing public health measures backed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona says school officials should be thanked, not punished, for taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and this program will allow them to continue that critical work of keeping students safe.

The money will come from an existing pool of federal funding that the Education Department can use on a range of student safety initiatives. The agency says it will invite districts to apply in the coming weeks.

___

ROME  Italy has sent two vaccination teams to the Sicilian island of Lampedusa to vaccinate newly arrived migrants against the coronavirus.

Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese has decreed that migrants arriving in the country must be inoculated. Italys virus czar, Gen. Francesco Figliuolo, said in a statement that starting Thursday two teams began work on Lampedusa alongside local health authorities and Italian Red Cross to administer the vaccines.

Lampedusa, a tiny island closer to Africa than the Italian mainland, is one of the main destinations of African-based migrants who pay Libyan or Tunisian smugglers to cross the Mediterranean in hopes of reaching Europe.

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Some 40,000 migrants have arrived in Italy by boat so far this year, twice as many as in 2020 and nine times as many as 2019.

___

ANKARA, Turkey  Turkeys health minister says the countrys first locally developed COVID-19 vaccine is close to seeking approval for emergency use.

Fahrettin Koca tells reporters that the nation aims to start mass producing Turkovac, which uses an inactivated virus technology, in October.

The vaccine was developed by Erciyes University. Late-stage trials began in June. Turkey also hopes to export Turkovac to other countries.

___

LANSING, Mich.  Michigan health and business officials are renewing a plea for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, citing hospital workforce shortages, unnecessary deaths and concerns that end-of-summer travel and the return to school could fuel a surge in cases.

About 59% of Michigan residents 12 and older have been fully vaccinated, and 65% have gotten at least one dose. Those figures trail behind the national rates of 62% and 73%.

Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, says hospitals are near capacity as coronavirus caseloads rise and high numbers of non-COVID-19 patients seek care they delayed earlier in the pandemic.

Peters says that our staffing is stressed to a level that we have not seen previously, and one of the ways to prevent that is to get the vaccine.

___

HONOLULU  An officer with the Honolulu Police Department says he has been suspended without pay and faces termination for not complying with the citys COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Cpl. Mark Kutsy was on patrol this week when he was pulled off duty and forced to turn in his gun and badge.

Kutsy says hes willing to submit to weekly testing. But Honolulu is in the only county in Hawaii not giving an option to test in lieu of vaccination.

State workers also have a vaccination mandate, but they can undergo weekly tests instead.

___

FRANKFORT, Ky.  Gov. Andy Beshear says just 90 adult intensive care beds are available in Kentucky as strained hospitals confront the surging delta variant of the coronavirus.

Beshear says that's a pandemic low, and that means if you get COVID and need to be hospitalized, there has never been a greater likelihood that theres not a bed for you or your family members, or your friends.

Beshear adds that 60 of 96 hospitals in the state currently face a critical staffing shortage. The limited number of ICU beds also will put those in non-virus related emergencies in danger of not receiving care, such as car crash victims.

In the governor's words, Our hospital situation has never been more dire in my lifetime than it is right now.

___

BRUSSELS  Belgiums vaccination task force says people with a weakened immune system will be offered an extra dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines next week.

The task force says the measure is for people over 12 who have reduced immunity due to a condition or a medical treatment. That includes cases of congenital immune disorders, cancer treatments or chronic dialysis.

The task force says their bodies are less responsive to the vaccine and an additional dose is recommended for optimal protection against severe disease progression, hospitalization or even death.

Up to 400,000 people among Belgium's 11.5 million inhabitants will be eligible for an extra shot.

___

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  The Sri Lankan health ministry inoculate young people ages 12 to 18 against COVID-19 soon, saying the move will help reopen the schools, which have been closed for more than six months.

Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella says about 2 million students will be vaccinated and classes for grades 7 to 13 could begin when that is finished.

The government imposed a lockdown Aug. 20 that runs through Sept. 13. The health ministry says 62% of the population above age 20 is vaccinated.

___

WASHINGTON  Researchers say federal government data significantly understated the ravages of COVID-19 in nursing homes last year.

Official numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are missing about 12% of cases among nursing home residents and 14% of deaths. Thats according to new estimates published Thursday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Network Open, by a Harvard researcher and her team.

It translates to thousands of missing data points, suggesting more than 118,300 nursing home residents died of COVID-19 last year, or about 30% of all coronavirus deaths nationally.

The researchers attributed the data holes to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services not requiring nursing homes to report cases and deaths until May 2020, well into the pandemic. The new estimates rely on numbers from states that required fuller reporting.
The latest in New York politics This article was featured in the Capitol Confidential newsletter. Sign up here to get it each morning.

Attorney General Letitia James office has issued a subpoena to the state Joint Commission on Public Ethics for its records on Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's book chronicling his administration's early response to the coronavirus pandemic, the Times Union has learned. (TU)

Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday unveiled a "vax to school" campaign to encourage educators and students to be vaccinated and said state employees are to be vaccinated by Oct. 12 or face weekly testing. (TU)
What was once a medium-security prison that housed about 1,000 inmates in Warwick will become a fully operating cannabis cultivation site by 2023.

Green Thumb Industries, a Chicago-based cannabis operator, began construction on Thursday for a Hudson Valley facility at the former Mid-Orange Correctional Facility site located on John Hicks Drive, joining Citiva Medical which has already begun building a greenhouse and processing facility there.

In this years legislative session, New York legalized adult recreational use of marijuana, prompting manufacturers to begin developing plans for cannabis growing and production sites in the region. In the Town of Wawarsing, Cresco Labs last month proposed a cannabis cultivation facility, promising 300 to 400 jobs once construction starts in 2022.

Its sort of a full circle moment, said CEO and founder of Green Thumb Industries Ben Kovler. The whole concept of the cannabis business built on top of doing what were doing for gainful employment does not make a lot of sense, he explained, given the countrys historic criminalization of marijuana. The fact there are still people in jail across the nation is a problem. Kolver said that Green Thumb wants to continue to employ people who have been incarcerated, as they have done at other facilities.

Before it was a prison, the Mid-Orange Correctional Facility site was home to the Warwick State Training School for Boys, founded in the 1920s and supported by Eleanor and Franklin Roosevelt.

Green Thumb, which creates consumer packaged goods and distributes branded cannabis products, has 16 manufacturing facilities and 64 retail locations across 14 states. It also is one of 10 registered organizations for the medical marijuana program in the state, according to Kovler.

The company has made an investment of $150 million to refurbish and remodel the Orange County site, which will create at least 100 construction jobs and 100 permanent positions with benefits for those who work at the facility once its complete.

There is massive opportunity upwards, from salaried positions with supervisors, operational roles, all the way up to general managers, said Kovler of the jobs to come. This is the time for people with passion and skills to learn it, and we can create a long-time career for folks.

Green Thumb has been in discussion with the Town of Warwick since 2020, but the marijuana company officially purchased the 40 acres of former prison grounds for $3.3 million in May of this year, after the Orange County Industrial Development Agency approved a 15-year tax abatement for Green Thumb. The $3.3 million purchase covered the towns remaining debt on the cost of the prison property from the state.

Everett Collie

Theyve been an unbelievable partner, said Kovler. They were looking what to do with this prison site  and how to drive jobs and other things. They sought out the cannabis idea, and it was a match that worked well. They rolled out the red carpet for us, and were going to deliver on our side with big investments and lots of jobs.

During the first of its three phases, the company will earmark 58,000 square feet of the 200,000 square foot space for growing marijuana, and the rest will be used for processing, offices and storage. Kovler said the first construction phase is planned to be completed within a year. Following construction, planting will begin mid-year 2022, with product ready by 2023; this means Green Thumbs products would be ready for sale around the same time the state predicted recreational dispensaries would be able to open.

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Theres nowhere where we feel as wanted as we do in Warwick, said Kovler. Thats why its a big win  given how big the [recreational marijuana] program is going to be in New York, given how much capital were going to spend, and our seven years of experience that allows us to put our best foot forward and create something special here.

Other cannabis facilities in Orange County include PharmaCann, which cultivates medical marijuana in Hamptonburgh and plans to expand into recreational cannabis production.

As marijuana manufacturing takes root in the region, Town of Warwick Supervisor Michael Sweeton said the town board is still debating whether it will opt out of allowing on-site cannabis consumption at cafes and marijuana dispensaries. Currently three local laws are on the table. The first, which is expected to pass at Thursdays meeting, prohibits smoking of any kind on public property. The second would ban on-site consumption at smoking lounges but permit dispensaries in certain areas. The third local law would create an overlay district to define commercial areas of the town for which dispensaries will be allowed.

The latter two are still in a public comment period. Well see how it proceeds, said Sweeton.

While the state has legalized adult-use cannabis, local governments have until December 31 to decide whether to allow or opt out of having a dispensary or smoking lounges inside their towns.
An irreplaceable American war hero  thats how veteran Ryan Sweet will remember Kyle Van De Water, an Army veteran and former congressional candidate from Rhinebeck who died unexpectedly on Tuesday.

Any positive word that you can find in the dictionary describes Kyle, said Sweet, who served with Van De Water for two and a half years in the Army and shared a lasting friendship with him for years afterward. Hes courageous, loyal, patriotic, intelligent, an amazing husband and father. He would have done anything for anybody.

Elected officials announced Van De Waters passing on Tuesday; Poughkeepsie police confirmed that the former 19th congressional district candidate died by suicide. Van De Water, who was 41 years old, was married to his wife Melissa and was the father of four children: Thomas, Lincoln, Annabelle and Levi.

Van De Water was born in Rhinebeck and raised in Poughkeepsie. After graduating from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst on a ROTC scholarship, he joined the Army Reserves and began attending Albany Law School. In 2006, he became an active-duty member of the United States Army, where he worked as an administrative law attorney at the United States Military Academy.

Van De Water was an active duty member of the Army from 2006 to 2014 and was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan. He was awarded the Bronze Star in 2011 and the Meritorious Service Medal; he was honorably discharged from the Army in 2014.

While working as a litigator at a Poughkeepsie-based law firm, Van De Water ran against incumbent U.S. Rep. Antonio Delgado in a very tight 2020 congressional race that Delgado won by more than 30,000 votes. Van De Water announced in July that he would run again for a House seat in 2022  but didnt want to commit to which seat because of redistricting on the horizon.

While I dont yet know how the district will look, I do know that I care far too much about this district to sit on the sidelines, no matter the odds, Van De Water said in a statement two months ago.

However, two weeks ago on August 27, he wrote on Facebook that he was withdrawing his candidacy. Unfortunately, circumstances in my life have changed and I am no longer able to give 110% towards this endeavor, he wrote. I look forward to vigorously and enthusiastically supporting the GOP candidate in 2022.

Community members react

Jim Franco/special to the Times Union

Local leaders, politicians and veterans expressed heartbreak over Van De Waters passing.

My heart breaks for Kyle, and his beautiful family. We shared a number of conversations about family and country, and I walked away from each one knowing that he had a profound love for both, Delgado said in a statement Tuesday. I know he will be immensely missed, and Im praying for all who loved him  his friends, fellow soldiers, and family. Kyles death is tragically felt not only on an individual level, but also nationally, as far too many veterans across our country are going without the support and care that their service to our great land undoubtedly necessitates.

The congressmans statement continued: We can and must do better. May God rest Kyles soul. And may God bless his family.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said that while he had only recently gotten to know Van De Water during the 2020 campaign, he saw firsthand the good work he did in the community. Van De Water was once a trustee of the Village of Millbrook  located in Dutchess County  and was engaged locally with leaders and community members in several municipalities.

His commitment and involvement in the community was genuine, Molinaro said.

Molinaro called Van De Water a patriot who understood the value of service and believed in making a difference. He did that as a member of armed services, as a community member, and wanted to do it as a member of Congress.

As a village trustee, he provided a valuable perspective to board issues with his legal background, Tim Collopy, Mayor of the Village of Millbrook, said in a written statement to the Times Union: Hudson Valley. As a veteran he modelled the importance of giving back to the community where he lived. He will be missed by his many neighbors and friends.

Nick Langworthy, chair of the New York State Republican Committee, said of Van De Water in an emailed statement: He was an American hero and soldier whose selfless service in the United States Army will never be forgotten ... Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

Difficult moment for veterans

Sweet, who said he was still in shock over the news, said Van De Waters death was unexpected to him and other friends. Everybody would have done anything had this been foreseen, he said. It doesnt make sense to me  its a particularly difficult time for combat veterans with the anniversary of the attacks of 9/11.

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This week marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks. The milestone follows a difficult few weeks for many veterans as U.S. forces evacuated Afghanistan after two decades there.

We cant allow Kyles death to be a moment where we speak with passion about this desire [to help veterans] and then we move on, Molinaro said in a phone interview. This is an issue that has been affecting countless Americans for generations and were only incrementally better. It needs to be confronted.

Dutchess County offers a handful of support services for veterans, including programming at Mental Health America (MHA) of Dutchess County, like the peer-based Vet2Vet program.

Weve had it for nearly four years now here, and weve never lost a veteran that came to our program, said Anthony Kavouras, Director of Veterans Programs at MHA. Its an amazing statistic, but [it] does no good if there are others we didnt know needed help.

Kavouras said one of the reasons people choose not to call is because of the stigma of mental illness. Vet2Vet doesnt do clinical work and is a peer mentoring group that allows veterans to talk with peers about what is on their mind.

Before you do something, give these organizations a chance and give us a call, said Kavouras. Were really good at what we do. I want to get the word out more.

Molinaro said he, too, has seen the ongoing stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Our nation is failing in its delivery of mental health services, without question, said Molinaro. We still have not confronted as a society mental [illness] and the stigma associated with it. That unwillingness and inability to break through that stigma for anyone with mental illness concerns is leading to the loss of lives.

While there are a myriad of different mental health services in Dutchess County and beyond, including the veteran hot line number, Molinaro said more can be done on an individual level and on the governmental level.

Converting innocent bystanders into active engaged partners to help people with mental wellness is a big challenge, he said. Putting those tools in practice remains the issue  we need to meet people where they are, tell them heres the toolbox and heres how to use the tools and we need you to engage.

--

If youre in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you know someone considering suicide, take the person to an emergency room, or seek help from a medical or mental health professional. Those in Dutchess County can access local crisis services. Call or text HELPLINE at 845-485-9700, or walk-in to the 24/7 Stabilization Center at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie.

If youre a veteran seeking help, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
Cohen Media Group

Juliette Binoche moves through the French drama Who You Think I Am as if possessed. From moment to moment, her character  an academic with a turbulent inner life  looks tense or wildly happy. Emotion, by turns, lightens and darkens her translucent face, and changes her body, gait and gestures. She laughs, she cries, expands, contracts. At times, she all but floats down the street, buoyed by the love of a younger man. Then again, she may be less high on him, per se, than on how he makes her feel.

Filmmakers can get a lot of mileage just by filling the screen with Binoches face, which is often a movies greatest special effect. Its a lovely face, eternally so, yet while beauty tends to pull us in, it doesnt necessarily hold and bewitch us, keeping us hooked. But Binoche is a virtuoso of sentiment, with a mesmerizing control of her face. She can soften, harden or crumple it into blotchy fragments, and then effortlessly piece it back together, with or without ragged seams. And while shes a great weeper, more impressive is how these inundations, these eddies of feeling, move under her skin.
TROY  Hoboken Brownstone Co. and the city revealed a $64 million plan Wednesday night to redevelop 1 Monument Square with a six-story mixed use building that delivers what residents and business owners said they wanted to see go up at the 1.1-acre site.

The single building encompasses seven architectural designs intended to reflect the evolution of the citys architecture from the 1840s into the 21st century. The proposed building takes an innovative approach to portraying the citys history through brick fronts that reflect varying eras.

The building on River Street would have a first-floor with a bar/restaurant/brewery, a lobby, retail space and a food market space to encourage businesses that would continue to develop from the Troy Farmers Waterfront Market or similar venues. The building would have about 90 apartments on the upper floors and a parking garage beneath.

There would be a 20,000-square foot plaza that would provide the open space residents want at the site, located at the southern end of Riverfront Park. It also would be designed to encourage the flow of pedestrians between River Street and Riverfront Park, which borders the Hudson River.

It looks spectacular. It captures the important points that city residents asked for two years ago, Mayor Patrick Madden said, referring to public meetings about what should be included.

Madden said the financing will have to be discussed.

Thunderous applause greeted the conclusion of the proposal by Sumeet Gupta, a principal with Hoboken Brownstone and a Capital Region resident, members of the design team and city officials. Hoboken Brownstone and city officials have been worried about public reaction, which derailed previous proposals for the site.

I believe this can be a destination and a model for waterfront development for the Capital Region, City Council President Carmella Mantello said.

The public portion of the project will cost $24 million, while Hobokens private section will run more than $40 million, said Steven Strichman, city commissioner of planning and economic development.

The public funding would cover redevelopment costs of $5.5 million for Riverfront Park and $18.5 million for 1 Monument Square, including the garage.

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Four previous proposals to redevelop the former City Hall site failed due to issues such as appearance, having a strong suburban feel and inclusion of low-income housing. This time around the city courted public support from the beginning while the developers worked slowly to pull the design together to reflect what residents said they supported.

Barbara Nelson, former chair of the city Planning Commission and current executive director of TAP (Troy Architectural Program), said she was pleased the proposal captured what the public said it wanted, but that inclusion of seven different building designs in the one building was trying too hard to fit the citys history.

Its anticipated Hoboken Brownstone will go before the Planning Commission later this year for approval. The city expects to begin infrastructure work on the site this fall.
ALBANY  Judges on the states second-highest court questioned whether a State Supreme Court judge overstepped his authority when he reduced by half a teenage killers sentence two years ago.

The arguments in front of the Appellate Division of state Supreme Court boiled down to whether legal procedures were followed and what mechanisms were available for a trial judge to change the sentence of a person convicted of a crime.

Albany County prosecutors argued that State Supreme Court Judge Peter Lynch incorrectly ruled to slash the sentence of Jah-Lah Vanderhorst. Vanderhorst, 27, was 16 years old in 2011 when he killed Tyler Rhodes in Hoffman Park. He was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to 25 years in state prison, which was upheld on appeal. Vanderhorst's co-defendant, Dhoruba Shuaib, 29, who blocked Rhodes' movements in the park and tripped him, is serving a 21-year sentence, also for first-degree manslaughter.

Two years ago, Lynch agreed to cut Vanderhorsts sentence in half, which would make him eligible for release from state prison in January. Prosecutors on Wednesday asked the court to reinstate the original sentence.

Vanderhorsts attorney in 2019 argued that the judge at the time of his conviction, Acting State Supreme Court Judge Daniel Lamont, failed to consider Vanderhorst's status as a possible youthful offender. Such a status allows defendants between 16 and 19 to plead guilty, serve no more than four years in prison and have their cases sealed.

Vanderhorsts appeal, which did not mention the issue of youthful offender status, took place during a change in how the states courts treated teenagers accused of violent crimes.

In October 2013, New York's top court, the Court of Appeals, said judges must consider it for eligible defendants. At the time of Vanderhorst's sentencing in August 2012, judges were not yet required to consider the status. The Third Department upheld Vanderhorst's conviction and sentence in 2014.

During arguments Wednesday, Assistant District Attorney Vincent Stark argued that Lynch ignored legal procedure and did not have the authority to reduce Vanderhorsts sentence.

Stark said once a sentence is imposed, a trial judge such as Lynch cannot change, suspend or interrupt it unless the sentence was illegal. He added that Lynchs decision ignored the states criminal procedures for appeals and the rulings of three courts that had upheld Vanderhorsts conviction and sentence.

Vanderhorsts attorney, Danielle Neroni, argued that at the time his client was sentenced he was possibly eligible for youthful offender status and the lower courts failed to consider that during his legal process even as state criminal procedure changed.

Judges questioned her on how they were supposed to approach the matter given that Lynch also did not find that Vanderhorst would qualify for youthful offender status, calling it confounding.

Neroni argued that since the states criminal procedures had changed while Vanderhorsts case was on appeal, that option remained open and that the appellate court could retroactively grant him youthful offender status.

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No less than three courts failed to make a determination prior to imposition of sentencethat Mr. Vanderhorst was an eligible youth, she said.

Neroni said she was asking the court to not just look at the case in a box, but to consider the totality of how the case had progressed and the fact that the youthful offender status question had never been settled by a court until Judge Lynch did in 2019.

This is not whether the sentence of 2012 before Judge Lamont was a legal sentence or not. Mr. Vanderhorst has been aggrieved every step of the way, she said.

The judges seemed to have trouble accepting that argument.

Im still really struggling with how Judge Lynch had any authority to do what he did, said Justice Molly Reynolds Fitzgerald. I sit and think this is a trial judge basically doing what an appellate court would do.

A ruling on the matter is expected this fall.
In pre-COVID times, business events __ from small academic conferences to giant trade shows like CES __ routinely attracted more than 1 billion participants each year. The pandemic brought those global gatherings to a sudden halt, emptying convention centers and shuttering hotels.

More than a year later, in-person meetings are on the rebound. In late August, 30,000 masked attendees gathered in Las Vegas for ASD Market Week, a retail trade show. In Chicago, the Black Womens Expo recently held the largest event in its history, with 432 vendors and thousands of masked attendees.

People are cautious, but theyre glad to be able to get out and network with other people, said Dr. Barbara Hall, whose company, JBlendz Communications, was among the exhibitors at the expo.

Still, it could be several years __ if ever __ before conferences attract the crowds they did before the pandemic. Many countries and businesses are still restricting travel, pinching attendance at big events like the Canton Trade Fair in China, which required 26,000 vendors to pitch their wares virtually in April.

Health concerns also remain. The industry is keen to avoid another black eye like the Biogen leadership conference, a February 2020 event in Boston that was eventually linked to 300,000 COVID cases.

The New York Auto Show, which regularly attracts more than 1 million people, was canceled two weeks before its August start date because of concerns about the delta variant. A construction machinery trade show in Beijing, which normally attracts 150,000 visitors, has been delayed for two months until November.

Experts say one of the big lessons of 2020 is that much of what happens at conferences and trade shows can happen virtually, lessening the need for big in-person events.

Jaiprit Virdi, an assistant professor at the University of Delaware, said moving events online made them more accessible to the disabled and those who cant afford to travel. Virdi, who is deaf, said shes relieved that in-person conferences are requiring masks for safety. But masks create serious barriers for her, since she relies on lip-reading.

We dont need to go back to the way things were pre-COVID, but rather embrace the lessons from the past year-and-a-half to improve how we conduct these spaces for everyone, Virdi said in an email.

Paddy Cosgrave, the CEO of the Web Summit, a tech conference aimed at startups, said last years virtual-only event was less expensive __ people paid just $100 to attend, versus $700 previously __ and drew in more participants from developing countries. But attendees also felt something was lacking.

In-person meetings provide a quality of interaction that no amount of technology as of yet can replicate, Cosgrave said.

This year, the Web Summit expects 40,000 attendees when it convenes in Lisbon, Portugal, in November. Vaccines or a negative COVID-19 test will be required to attend, but masks are optional.

The Render-Atlanta software engineering conference, scheduled for mid-September, is also requiring vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter. To make attendees feel even safer, the conference cut a deal with a sponsor to provide daily testing for its 400 attendees. Masks ___ which can be personalized at a decorating station __ will be required. Attendees can also wear black-and-white bracelets showing their level of comfort with social interaction. Dots mean they're okay with it, stripes mean stay away.

Justin Samuels, Render-Atlanta chief experience officer, said its worth the extra hoops to gather in person. Render-Atlanta is the only Black-owned software engineering conference, with an emphasis on culture that doesnt translate to a Zoom screen, Samuels said.

The actual art of human interaction has to happen in person, Samuels said.

A lot is riding on the revival of in-person meetings. Prior to the pandemic, conferences and trade shows generated more than $1 trillion in direct spending and attracted 1.5 billion attendees annually around the world, according to the Events Industry Council, a trade group.

The group hasnt yet calculated the impact of the virus globally. But the Center for Exhibition Industry Research, which studies the economic impact of U.S. business-to-business trade shows, said those events alone were expected to generate $105 billion in direct and indirect spending in 2020. Instead, that plunged to $24 billion. CEIR doesn't expect a return to growth for the industry until 2023.

Chicagos McCormick Place, the largest convention center in the U.S., laid off 90% of its 2,800 workers last year after 234 events were canceled, said Larita Clark, the CEO of the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority. One of the complexs two hotels, the Marriott Marquis Chicago, was temporarily closed; the other, the Hyatt Regency Chicago, saw occupancy drop as low as 10%.

The economic losses extend far beyond exhibition complexes. Fern, a 112-year-old Cincinnati company, builds exhibits and other infrastructure for 1,400 events in a normal year. But for most of last year and the beginning of this year, its revenue dropped well over 90%, said Aaron Bludworth, Ferns president and CEO.

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This was much more brutal than anything I have experienced in my career, Bludworth said.

Bludworth doesnt expect his business to fully recover until 2023. But he has been surprised by the demand hes seeing for fall, when his company will be mounting several hundred shows. He's had some requests for help with virtual presentations, he said, but demand for in-person events is stronger.

Maybe you can do education virtually, but when a buyer and seller connect and go out and have dinner, that cannot happen virtually, he said. Our community realizes weve got to get together and sell products and make this commerce happen.

Steve Hill, CEO and president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, said 2022 is shaping up to be a good year for the industry. But he acknowledges a lot will depend on the situation around COVID-19 and whether international travel restrictions are lifted. Foreigners can account for 20% to 30% of attendees at he city's major events, he said.

Hill thinks virtual convention elements are here to stay. They give shows another revenue stream and help them develop followers, he said. But Hill thinks enough people will continue to visit in person that hybrid events wont hurt hotels and restaurants in convention cities.

The shows will get back to 100% attendance. People need the in-person aspect of a show, he said.

But Sherrif Karamat, the president and CEO of the Professional Convention Management Association, is not so sure, particularly as more convention attendees question the environmental impact of travel. Karamat is excited about the prospect of virtual conferencing bringing the world closer.

Learning should not be limited to any one channel. Business networking should not be limited to any one channel, he said.

Karamat says the pandemic is already reshaping the convention industry. Organizers are thinking more deeply about why their conferences matter and the outcomes they want to achieve, he said, which will lead to more meaningful gatherings.

Im very bullish, he said. I feel were going to take this much more seriously.

___

AP Writers Kelvin Chan in London, David Koenig in Dallas, Joe McDonald in Beijing and Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed.
COLONIE - As the pandemic eases, one of the federal governments key assistance programs, the extra $300 a week that people received in addition to their usual unemployment checks, has come to a close.

That benefit program expired on Monday, Sept. 6, meaning an estimated 3 million Americans will start seeing far smaller unemployment insurance checks.

State labor officials couldnt immediately say how many New Yorkers will be affected, but countless businesses large and small are hoping the end of the added benefit may ease what has been a chronic labor shortage that took off with the pandemic in the middle of 2020.

That's because many people who received the checks on top of their normal unemployment benefits were getting more by staying home than by going back to work. Until now, it was a matter of simple math.

With a regular benefit of, say, $504, the extra $300 weekly check meant that someone on long-term unemployment could get $41,808 annually  more with some of the added benefits that were available. That means someone working at a $15-an-hour job in a fast food restaurant or a warehouse could get more money than their $31,200 annual base pay by remaining unemployed. They were getting even more initially as the extra benefit started out as a $600 payment in 2020 before it was cut in half.

The result, say business operators, has been an often-fruitless search for employees, at least for some relatively low-level or low-paid jobs and even some better- paying ones.

Restaurants across the Capital Region and beyond have cut their hours or days of operation due to staff shortages. Other businesses such as the Great Escape amusement park near Lake George also were closed for more days than normal. Signs offering to hire people for at least $15 were seemingly everywhere.

This is the biggest thing that we are hearing out there, is the inability to staff up, said Greg Biryla, New York state director for the National Federation of Independent Business.

Indeed, business operators like Anthony Commisso who runs Lathams Tuxego formal wear rental shop, said he understood why some people have stayed home. As the pandemic raged last year and he cut hours, one of his top employees had to move on although he has since returned as Commissos business has picked up again. I have to match way more than $15 an hour in order to attract employees, he said.

The shortage is persisting despite the sharp drop over the last year in unemployment claims.

Still, almost everyone who has followed the issue agrees that ending the $300 pandemic payment wont eliminate all of the worker shortages. Parents who are worried about affording or even getting day care; fears of the COVID-19 delta variant; concerns over possible school closures and a preference for working at home isnt going away and will pose continued challenges for employers.

The $300 is just one contributing factor, said Biryla.

Moreover, employers say the pandemic, which kept many people at home, has simply accelerated what has been a changing attitude toward work and careers by many people.

There are a number of reasons why people are not showing up for their appointments or their interviews or who dont show up for their jobs, said Dora Swan who with a partner runs Fin  Your Fishmonger, fresh seafood store and eatery in Guilderland.

They have had to cut their hours since the pandemic started and have discontinued the in-house seating for cooked seafood in favor of takeout in part because of a lack of staff.

Like others, she has countless stories of people who have called in expressing interest in a job or setting up an interview but then failing to show up. Part of that could be that people who are gaming the state unemployment system, which requires that recipients make an effort to look for a job. By making a call, a person could say they at least tried to find a job.

People also have different expectations.

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Workers at Lucia Specialized Hauling in Delanson pack and move large equipment such as machine parts or power generators. They load them onto semi-trucks and transport them either a few miles to a rail siding or cross country. The work is hard with long hours but it pays well.

But Laura Lucia, who helps run the family-owned firm, said they are struggling to get people. One recent interviewee, for instance, said he wanted regular 9-to-5 hours and no weekends.

People have changed their outlook and I think COVID has had something to do with that, she said. "It doesnt have a lot to do with the money.

The shortage of truck drivers has been particularly acute as many veterans of the industry have retired rather than dealing with ever-tougher regulations about work hours and the hassle of using electronic log books to document their trips, said Lucia.

Nor is this unique to New York. The Empire State is among the 19 states that didnt stop the $300 payments in the spring and waited until the federal program was set to end.

But Lucia, who also has an office in Virginia and who has traveled this year to visit her kids in Washington state and Pennsylvania, said the Help Wanted signs are everywhere. I cant tell you the number of signs that you see.

rkarlin@timesunion.com 518 454 5758 @RickKarlinTU
(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

Hanif Sufizada, University of Nebraska Omaha

(THE CONVERSATION) Now that the Taliban have reportedly taken full control of Afghanistan and begun forming a government, a looming challenge awaits: How will they keep their country and economy afloat financially?

For the past 20 years, the U.S. government and other countries have financed the vast majority of the Afghan governments non-military budget  and every cent of the fighting force that melted to the Taliban so quickly in August 2021. Now, with American aid likely out of the question and billions in central bank foreign reserves frozen, the Taliban will have to find other means to pay for salaries and support citizens and infrastructure.

Ive been studying the finances of the Taliban and American-backed government for many years as an economic policy analyst at the Center for Afghanistan Studies. Understanding how the Taliban will pay for their government begins with the last time they were in power over 20 years ago.

Afghanistan has changed a lot

In the 1990s, Afghanistan was a very different country.

The population was under 20 million and relied on international aid groups for the few services they could provide. In 1997, for example, the Taliban government had a budget of just US$100,000, which was barely enough for the salaries of government officials, let alone the entire countrys administrative and development needs.

Today, Afghanistan has changed markedly. The population has grown significantly, and its citizens increasingly came to expect services such as health care, education and basic utilities. In 2020, for example, Afghanistan had a non-military budget of $5.6 billion.

As a result, Kabul has been transformed from a war-ravaged city into a modern capital, with a growing number of high rises, internet cafes, restaurants and universities.

Most of the developmental and infrastructure spending that has taken place since 2001 has come from other countries. The U.S. and other international donors covered about 75% of the governments non-military spending during those years. In addition, the U.S. spent $5.8 billion since 2001 on economic and infrastructure development.

Still, government revenue was beginning to cover a growing share of domestic spending in recent years. Sources included customs duties, taxes, income from fees on services like passports, telecommunications and roads, as well as revenue from its vast but mostly untapped mineral wealth.

Revenue would have been a lot higher were it not for the governments endemic corruption, which some experts and officials cite as a key reason for its downfall. A report from May 2021 suggested that $8 million was being embezzled out of the country every day, which would add up to about $3 billion a year.

Where the Taliban gets its money

Meanwhile, the Taliban had their own significant revenue streams to finance their insurgency as it gained control of the country.

In the 2019-2020 fiscal year alone, the Taliban raked in $1.6 billion from a wide variety of sources. Most notably, the Taliban earned $416 million that year from selling opium, over $400 million from mining minerals like iron ore, marble and gold, and $240 million from donations from private donors and groups.

U.S. intelligence agencies and others believe that various countries, including Russia, Iran, Pakistan and China, have helped finance the Taliban.

With those resources, the Taliban were able to buy plenty of weapons and grow their military ranks as they took advantage of the U.S. withdrawal and conquered Afghanistan in a matter of weeks.

Afghanistans challenges

But winning the war may be easier than running the county, which faces many problems.

Afghanistan is currently enduring severe drought that threatens over 12 million people  a third of the population  with crisis or emergency levels of food insecurity. Prices for food and other essentials have soared, while most banks started to reopen with limited cash availability.

And like many countries, its economy has been hurt by COVID-19  and some fear a resurgence in cases as vaccination rates plunge. Many public health facilities face severe funding shortages.

The Taliban also face daunting financial challenges. Roughly $9.4 billion in Afghanistan international reserves were frozen immediately after the Taliban took over Kabul. The International Monetary Fund suspended more than $400 million in emergency reserves, and the European Union halted plans to disperse $1.4 billion in aid to Afghanistan through 2025.

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5 potential funding sources for new government

Still, as they finish making their government and plotting a future course, the Taliban have a few sources they might be able to tap to generate enough money to run their reclaimed country:

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Customs and taxation. Now that the Taliban are in full control of Afghanistans border crossings and government offices, they can begin collecting all import and other taxes.

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Drugs. The Taliban have said it wont permit Afghan farmers to grow opium poppies as they seek international recognition for their rule. But they may change their mind if that recognition doesnt come, in which case they may be able to continue to generate a significant source of revenue from drug smuggling. Afghanistan is said to be responsible for about 80% of global opium and heroin supplies.

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Mining. Afghanistan is estimated to have $1 trillion worth of minerals in its mountains and other parts of the country. China in particular has been eager to mine for these metals, which include ones that are critical to the modern supply chain, such as lithium, iron, copper and cobalt. This may not be possible in the short run, though.

-

Non-Western countries. Several governments have been reportedly helping the Taliban financially, including Russia, Qatar, Iran and Pakistan, and these countries may continue to do so. After the previous Afghan government collapsed in August, I was told by ex-central bank officials that a country in the region, likely Qatar, injected millions of dollars to support the Afghan economy. China in particular stands out for its potential ties to the new government, as the Taliban have recently declared the country their principal partner. On Sept. 8, 2021, China gave the government $31 million in emergency aid. Besides mining minerals, China is also interested in extending its Belt and Road Initiative  a global infrastructure development project  into Afghanistan.

-

Western aid. Even with these other sources of income, I believe the Taliban will still be keen to restore aid from the U.S. and other Western countries and get rid of United Nations sanctions that have been in place since 1999. The Taliban have said they intend to behave differently than in the 1990s, including by respecting the rights of women and not permitting terrorists to operate from Afghanistan. And the EU, U.S. and other governments may want to use aid and frozen reserves as leverage to hold the Taliban to these promises.

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This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/minerals-drugs-and-china-how-the-taliban-might-finance-their-new-afghan-government-167169.
HONOLULU (AP)  Researchers have completed a comprehensive online map of the worlds coral reefs by using more than 2 million satellite images from across the globe.

The Allen Coral Atlas, named after late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, will act as a reference for reef conservation, marine planning and coral science as researchers try to save these fragile ecosystems that are being lost to climate change.

The group announced completion of the atlas Wednesday and said it is the first global, high-resolution map of its kind. It gives users the ability to see detailed information about local reefs, including different types of submarine structure like sand, rocks, seagrass and, of course, coral.

The maps, which include areas up to 50 feet (15 meters) deep, are being used to inform policy decisions about marine protected areas, spatial planning for infrastructure such as docks and seawalls and upcoming coral restoration projects.

Our biggest contribution in this achievement is that we have a uniform mapping of the entire coral reef biome, said Greg Asner, managing director of the Atlas and director of Arizona State University's Center for Global Discovery and Conservation.

Asner said they relied on a network of hundreds of field contributors who gave them local information about reefs so that they could program their satellites and software to focus on the right areas.

And that lets us bring the playing field up to a level where decisions can be made at a bigger scale because so far decisions have been super localized," Asner said. "If you dont know what youve got more uniformly, how would the U.N. ever play a real role? How would a government that has an archipelago with 500 islands make a uniform decision?

The atlas also includes a coral bleaching monitor to check for corals that are stressed due to global warming and other factors.

Asner said about three quarters of the world's reefs had not previously been mapped in this kind of in-depth way, and many not at all.

The project began in 2017 when Allen's company, Vulcan Inc., was working with Ruth Gates, a Hawaii researcher whose idea of creating  super coral  for reef restoration was funded by the philanthropic foundation.

Gates and Vulcan brought in Asner because of his work with the Global Airborne Observatory that had been mapping reefs in Hawaii at the time.

Allen, who said he wanted to help save the world's coral reefs, liked the idea of using technology to visualize data, so Gates connected the group with a satellite company called Planet, and Allen funded the project for about $9 million.

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The University of Queensland in Australia used artificial intelligence technology and local reference data to generate the layers on the atlas. Anyone can view the maps for free online.

Both Allen and Gates passed away in 2018, leaving Asner and others to carry on their work.

"Ruth would be so pleased, wouldnt she?" Asner said. She would just be tickled that this is really happening.

He said about a third of the calls he is getting are from researchers who hope to use the maps to be sure that their planning and their reef restoration work is going to have its max efficacy.

When Gates found out she was sick, she selected friend and colleague Helen Fox from the National Geographic Society to help communicate with conservation groups about how to use the tool.

It really was a global effort," said Fox, who is now the conservation science director for Coral Reef Alliance. There were huge efforts in terms of outreach and helping people be aware of the tool and the potential scientific and conservation value."

___

This story has been corrected to reflect that about three quarters of the worlds reefs had not previously been mapped in this kind of in-depth way, not one third.
NASSAU  The Rensselaer County Sheriffs Office has arrested 10 people following a gang assault on July 31 that seriously injured a 21-year-old man during a pit party attended by 400 to 600 people.

Three young adults and seven underage teenagers have been arrested in the case, the sheriffs office said Wednesday.

The investigation concluded that approximately 400 to 600 people attended a party in the abandoned gravel pit, which was promoted on social media, and ultimately led to the gang assault on the victim, the sheriffs office said.

Deputies arriving at the scene of the party discovered the assault victim on the ground with significant wounds from his head to his feet.

Local residents previously said cars were parked along Nassau-Averill Park Road at the entrance to the sand pit area and drag racing took place on Central Nassau Road just north of the party site. The party was promoted on Facebook as "Pop Out Friday the 30th Pit Party in Nassau."

Investigators said they believe a 19-year-old from Latham began the assault on the victim. He is charged with first-degree assault, second-degree gang assault, second-degree assault, second-degree menacing, and two counts of fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

Also arrested was a 19-year-old from Catskill on first-degree assault, second-degree gang assault and second -degree assault charges, deputies said.

In addition, a 19-year-old man from Nassau was charged with prohibited sale of an alcoholic beverage and giving or selling alcohol to a person under 21 years of age, deputies said

The seven younger teenagers, ages 15 and 17, were charged with first-degree assault, second-degree gang assault and second-degree assault.

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Todays news of charges related to this 400-600 person party and related brutal gang assault, are an important first step in justice for the victim. The town will continue to monitor this investigation and review the matter for any further actions that may be warranted due to this illegal activity, Nassau Supervisor David Fleming said.

Fleming added that sheriffs announcement of these 10 arrests is an important warning for anyone looking to host illegal, social media driven events. Just dont do it. If you do, it better not be in Nassau.




ALBANY  Confusion spurred by Brexit, the United Kingdoms withdrawal from the European Union, has opened an entrepreneurial opportunity in the United States, according to a Scottish business operator.

In the U.K.s departure from the long-standing club of countries, one Scottish business has found it difficult to satisfy customers due to the thicket of taxes and regulations involved in exporting to Europe, now that there is no longer a European Union free trade arrangement. So she is looking more toward trading with the U.S.

Anna White, founder and principal of the Scotland Shop, said the process of selling her brightly colored textiles in the U.K. is the same as with the U.S. in terms of filling out customs paperwork and paying taxes for items entering the countries.

But lately, the customer outcomes have varied greatly.

Unfortunately, our European customers find it difficult to understand what the new rules and taxes are, and the customs agencies havent been handling it very well. So, lots of parcels are getting stuck in customs and customers and businesses (are) being charged a lot of money, she explained.

She said she rarely has an issue with her products reaching the U.S. while other packages are getting lost in the hazy European customs process. In fact, parcels shipped to New York from Scotland often arrive sooner than those sent to London, she noted.

Ian Houston, president of the Scottish Business Network, said the U.S. is Scotlands top international export location, worth about $7.5 billion in 2017 and comprising 17 percent of the countrys total international exports.

After Brexit, nonmember businesses still dont have to pay tariffs or taxes on goods moved between the E.U. and U.K. per an agreement worked out in December 2020.

White could have chosen from scads of cities across the nation to set up shop, admitting that both Boston and New York City were contenders in her search. She chose Albany because she felt theres a piece of Scotland in just about every corner, from the town of New Scotland to "Alba" in Albany, a term that means Scotland in Gaelic.

And the areas location - within reach of other metropolitan hubs such as Boston, Montreal, New York City and Washington  was an added bonus. White plans to open the store on Loudon Road in January.

White and Emily Redman, a fashion expert working with the Scotland Shop who will manage the New York store, are waiting for the U.S. to reopen business travel so they can venture over and finish setting up shop.

The store, offering over 500 different, customizable tartans and fabrics, will be modeled on the companys flagship store in Edinburgh, Scotland. Customers can buy the tartan fabric or have it fashioned into clothing, upholstery and more.

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White launched the Edinburgh store as her first brick and mortar in 2017, about 15 years after the business 2002 launch. The New York shop will be the company's second store.

From 2002 to 2017, White treated it as a niche e-commerce business, strictly servicing customers online. Over time her patrons wanted more from the Scotland Shop, an experience, as she described it.

We had so many customers who wanted to come see the product in person, wanted to touch the fabrics, flip through the swatch books and have that experience of having the product in their hands and trying things on, she said.

She hopes the New York location will bring the Scotland Shop a little closer to her U.S. customers to better understand them and provide a better product with customer service in their time zone. Though what Americans should know is the difference between our beloved plaid styles and a real, Scottish tartan.

Redman said plaid and tartan styles have become blurred in recent years. She boiled it down to a historical difference.

A tartan is distinctly tied to a lineage or city in Scotland and its heritage, whereas, plaid was designed for fashion, she said.

Its recently become difficult for people to tell the difference between a true tartan and a piece of plaid fabric, but Whites fabrics are imported from Scotland - so these are tartans.
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  An estimated 200 foreigners, including Americans, left Afghanistan on a commercial flight out of Kabul on Thursday with the cooperation of the Taliban  the first such large-scale departure since U.S. forces completed their frantic withdrawal over a week ago.

The Qatar Airways flight to Doha marked a breakthrough in the bumpy coordination between the U.S. and Afghanistans new rulers. A dayslong standoff over charter planes at another airport has left hundreds of mostly Afghan people stranded, waiting for Taliban permission to leave.

A senior U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he wasnt authorized to talk to the media, said the Taliban's foreign minister and deputy prime minister helped facilitate the flight. Americans, U.S. green card holders and other nationalities, including Germans, Hungarians and Canadians, were aboard, the official said.

Qatari envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani said another 200 passengers will leave Afghanistan on Friday.

Ten U.S. citizens and 11 green-card holders made Thursdays flight, State Department spokesman Ned Price said. Americans organizing charter evacuation flights said they knew of more U.S. passport and green-card holders in Mazar-e-Sharif and elsewhere awaiting flights out.

The White House said before the flight that there were roughly 100 U.S. citizens left in Afghanistan. But several veterans groups have said that number is too low because many citizens never bothered to tell U.S. officials they were in the country. And they said the figure overlooks green-card-carrying permanent U.S. residents living in Afghanistan who want to leave.

Many thousands of Afghans remain desperate to get out, too, afraid of what Taliban rule might hold. The Taliban have repeatedly said foreigners and Afghans with proper travel documents could leave. But their assurances have been met with skepticism, and many Afghans have been unable to obtain certain paperwork.

U.S. lawmakers, veterans groups and others are pressing the Biden administration to ensure that former Afghan military interpreters and others who could be in danger of Taliban reprisals for working with the Americans are allowed to leave.

In the U.S., National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne said that Thursday's flight was the result of careful and hard diplomacy and engagement and that the Taliban have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort.

This is a positive first step, she said, adding that the U.S. will continue trying to extract Americans and Afghan allies who want to leave.

As Taliban authorities patrolled the tarmac, passengers presented their documents for inspection and dogs sniffed luggage laid out on the ground. Some veteran airport employees had returned to their jobs after fleeing during the harrowing chaos of the U.S.-led airlift.

Irfan Popalzai, 12, boarded the flight with his mother and five siblings. He said his family lives in Maryland.

I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited" to leave, he said.

The airport was extensively damaged in the frenzied final days of the U.S. airlift that evacuated over 100,000 people. But Qatari authorities announced that it had been repaired with the help of experts from Qatar and Turkey and was ready for the resumption of international airline flights.

I can clearly say that this is a historic day in the history of Afghanistan as Kabul airport is now operational, al-Qahtani said. He added: Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan.

The flight was the first to take off from the Kabul airport since American forces left the country at the end of August. The accompanying scenes of chaos, including Afghans plunging to their deaths from the sides of military aircraft on takeoff and a suicide bombing that killed 169 Afghans and 13 U.S. service members, came to define the end of Americas two-decade war.

The airport is no longer the Hamid Karzai International Airport, but simply Kabul International Airport, with the name of the country's former president removed. Several Taliban flags flew from the terminal, which was emblazoned The Islamic Emirate seeks peaceful and positive relations with the world."

Hundreds of other Afghans who say they are at risk for helping the Americans have gathered for more than a week in the northern city of Mazar-e-Sharif, waiting for permission to board evacuation flights chartered by U.S. supporters. Many are believed not to have the necessary travel documents.

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In Mazar-e-Sharif on Thursday, an Afghan who worked 15 years as an interpreter for the U.S. military was moving from hotel to hotel and running out of money as he, his eight children and his wife waited for the OK from the Taliban to leave.

Im frightened I will be left behind, said the man, whose name was withheld by The Associated Press for his safety.

The interpreter said he was one of many former U.S. employees whose special visas the United States approved in the last weeks of the American military presence in Afghanistan. But with the U.S. Embassy closed when the Taliban took Kabul on Aug. 15, it has become impossible to get the visa stamped into his passport.

He said he doesn't trust Taliban assurances that they will not take revenge against Afghans who worked for the Americans.

No, never, he said. I never believe them, because they are lying.

Afghanistan war veteran Matt Zeller, who founded the organization No One Left Behind to help Afghans who supported American troops, said he does not believe it is possible for applicants to the special immigrant visa program to get a visa without an embassy in Kabul.

For all intents and purposes, these peoples chances of escaping the Taliban ended the day we left them behind," he said.

Price said the United States is looking at such steps as electronic visas to overcome the lack of an embassy in Afghanistan.

The organization War Time Allies estimates as many as 20,000 special visa applicants remain in the country, not counting those eligible under a more liberal rule change made in July. Add their families to that and the total amounts to more than 80,000 people, according to the group.

___

Associated Press writers Ellen Knickmeyer in Oklahoma City, Julie Watson in San Diego and Bernard Condon in New York contributed to this report.
TROY  City council members unanimously approved a $1.55 million settlement with the widow of an unarmed man fatally shot by a patrol sergeant in 2016 during a meeting Thursday night with no discussion.

But it remains unclear if the city will release a still-secret report that disputes key findings in an internal affairs investigation that found Sgt. Randall French lied about his actions and what unfolded prior to his fatal shooting of a DWI suspect.

Further document disclosure must await final approval by the City Council and completion of the settlement by the court, said John Salka, a spokesman for the city.

Asked directly if the city would release the report, Salka declined to definitively answer the question.

The release of documents must await final approval by the City Council and completion of the settlement by the court.

The City Council authorized the settlement to the widow and two sons of Edson Thevenin, who was killed by French in 2016 during a traffic stop on the Collar City Bridge.

French fired eight rounds through the windshield of Thevenin's 2000 Honda Civic after he fled a traffic stop minutes earlier when French tried to arrest him for drunken driving.

Although Thevenin was not armed, the city maintains his vehicle was a weapon and the officer fired in self-defense.

Thevenins family sued the city in federal court, alleging the shooting was unjustified. The family and Troy officials agreed to the court-mediated settlement in which Troy officials would not have to admit any fault.

Five years later, the narrative remains hotly contested:

The memo given to the City Council in support of the settlement said that French fired his gun after Thevenin's car rolled toward him and eventually pinned his legs to his patrol car.

Sgt. French reasonably believed he was going to be crushed, and in those circumstances, the shooting was justified, the memo said.

But a separate internal affairs report determined French engaged in an "unjustifiable act of deadly physical force and recommended four disciplinary measures that were never acted upon.

The internal probe

An internal investigation by the Troy Police Department completed in 2018 describes French's decision to allegedly ram Thevenin's vehicle in the early morning of April 17, 2016, as an "unjustifiable act of deadly physical force.

French, according to the internal affairs report, had improperly forced Thevenin's car off the road and later lied about that and his claim of opening fire as he was trapped between his cruiser and the suspects vehicle.

The 69-page report issued by Joseph L. Centanni, a former Troy police captain who now serves as chief of the Watervliet Police Department, was completed in 2018 but never made public or acted on by the department's leaders. The internal affairs investigation was delayed while the state attorney general's office completed its own review of the shooting.

Centanni's report characterized French's account of the shooting as "inconceivable and said French engaged in "several reckless acts which dramatically increased the likelihood of a violent confrontation with Thevenin upon Sgt. French's exit from his patrol vehicle."

Furthermore, it concluded French was not in imminent danger when he fired the first two rounds through Thevenin's windshield.

The report recommended sustaining four disciplinary charges against French, who died last year from symptoms associated with COVID-19, including unjustifiable use of deadly force and providing false testimony related to the death of Thevenin, who was 37.

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Yet Troy city police officials declined to take action.

Centanni, citing evidence that included an independent expert's forensic analyses of the vehicles and statements from officers and civilian witnesses at the scene, also concluded that French violated departmental policies  and the law  by sideswiping and forcing Thevenin's vehicle into the concrete barrier.

That report itself wasnt released by the city until a U.S. magistrate ordered its release after a whistleblower alerted Thevenins widows attorneys about its existence.

Additionally, a yearlong investigation by the state attorney general's office completed in January 2018 also had raised questions about French's version of what unfolded and sharply criticized the investigations conducted by the Troy Police Department and former Rensselaer County District Attorney Joel E. Abelove. Within days of the shooting, the former prosecutor granted French immunity from prosecution when the officer testified before a grand jury that cleared him of wrongdoing  and would have been unable to do anything else because of the immunity he received.

Abelove was charged with perjury and official misconduct as a result of his handling of Thevenin's killing.

A Columbia County judge acquitted him of all charges last September, including felony perjury.

The Ranalli report

Top officials in the administration of Mayor Patrick Madden had secretly hired a law enforcement consultant, Michael D. Ranalli, who had been recommended by Troy police officials.

Ranalli, a former Glenville police chief, composed a 19-page legal memorandum in December 2018 that some city officials claim rebuts Centanni's findings.

Yet the city has refused to release the document, citing the need to wait until the case headed into court.
Beauty may be more than skin deep, but that doesnt mean we arent willing to spend a whole lot of money to perfect our superficial surfaces.

From the wrinkle-reducing cream we dab on our skin to the lengthening mascara we drag through our lashes, women who routinely invest in their appearance spend an average of $3,756 a year on cosmetics, skin and hair care, according to a poll conducted by marketing firm OnePoll. Men dig deep to look dapper, too, spending about $3,000 a year on their looks.

The tendency to spend  and even splurge  on beauty supplies starts early. Teens today are enticed by beauty vloggers, social media advertising and influencers paid to promote the latest beauty trends. My teens cache of cosmetics and time-consuming beauty routine rivals that of a Hollywood makeup artist. Its easy to see how some could conceivably invest around $200,000 on their appearance in a lifetime.

Looking good  and, in turn, feeling confident  doesnt have to break the bank. Whether youre a prestige brand or budget shopper, there are many ways to save on skin care and cosmetics.

Head directly to the manufacturer: I mentioned my latest obsession, Olay, recently. Head to the companys website and take advantage of significant savings on skin care. I just scooped up a jar of Luminous Whip moisturizer on sale for $14.62, less than half the original price. As an added bonus, I received a box of Crest 3D Whitestrips absolutely free (a $25 value). All items ship free and subscription orders are available.

Seek out samples: Big brands like Lancome and LOreal offer coupons and free samples to those who register on their websites. And dont be shy. Next time you are at your favorite cosmetic store or counter, ask if there are any samples available.

Become a product tester: There are companies out there seeking honest feedback on up-and-coming products. If youre a good fit for the free LOreal Consumer Testing Panel theyll send you makeup in the mail to try out. Join Influenster, a product review site, and you may qualify to receive a VoxBox, a box of free, often full-size products that Influenster delivers to members for testing purposes.

Hit up off-priced department stores: If youre a dedicated deal scooper, drop by your local Marshalls and TJMaxx. Ive stumbled upon popular, luxury lines from BareMinerals, Smashbox, Lancome and others for a fraction of the original cost.

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Register for rewards: Ulta Beauty, Sephora and BareMinerals offer free loyalty rewards programs. When you sign up, not only will you be privy to coupons and special offers, youll also get a free gift on your birthday. I routinely receive coupons good for $10 off an Ulta Beauty haul with no minimum purchase required.

Get a little something extra: Many retailers and major cosmetic companies will offer bonus gifts when customers make a minimum purchase. Right now, when you spend $45 on Tarte cosmetics at Macys you'll receive a free gift.

Save coin with coupons: Sunday fliers often feature cosmetic coupons good on drugstore brands. Combine manufacturer coupons with sales, store coupons or reward offers  like Target Cartwheel and CVS ExtraBucks Rewards  to save a bundle on beauty aids.

Sign up for a beauty box subscription: Join one of many subscription services and youll receive a box of beauty product samples each month or season. BirchBox, Ipsy, Macys and Sephora Play! will deliver an assortment of makeup, hair care and skin care samples right to your door for $10-$15 a month. With the Walmart Beauty Box youll receive one trove of goodies each season for about $7.

Shop Ulta at Target and stack the savings: Target and Ulta Beauty are teaming up to offer prestige brand cosmetics at Target stores throughout the country. Ulta Beauty at Target is featured in 100 Target stores and on Target.com, with plans to eventually reach a total of 800 locations. Its convenient and cost-effective. Shoppers can combine Ultamate Rewards points and Target Circle offers by linking the two programs in the Target app. If you have a Target REDCard, youll also save 5 percent on Ulta purchases.

Clip coupons and shop sales: Simple enough, right? Sunday fliers often feature coupons good for hair care products, including shampoo and conditioner. Combine coupons with sale prices to save even more. If you prefer those pricier brands, like Redken and Biolage, stock up during Ultas biannual Jumbo Love Hair Sale. JCPenney also offers a wide selection of prestige coiffure products and routinely runs promotions both in-store and online.
Farmington, WV (26555)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High near 75F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, mainly cloudy overnight with a few showers. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Farmington, WV (26555)

Today

Thunderstorms likely. A few storms may be severe. High 77F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early - fog may develop overnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
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If you have any questions or need further assistance, please call our customer service team at 570-724-2287 or email dtaylor@tiogapublishing.com.
The Moyne Road/ Bellevue Residents Association have been working with Fr. Martin Marija (Thurles Pallottine Priest) to collect face masks that will be sent to Tanzania to help prevent the spread of Covid 19.



This campaign has been underway for two weeks and so far over 2,000 face masks have been donated by the local community.

Tommy Barrett Chairman Moyne Road/Bellevue Residents Association said: We are overwhelmed by how generous people have been in donating face masks.

The residents of Moyne Road recently had a meeting with Fr Martin and presented him with the face masks that have been donated to date. It is also important to acknowledge the support of local pharmacies who have also supported this cause and have donated thermometers, they are also required in Mbugwe, Tanzania.

I wish to inform people that they can continue to donate face masks throughout September. Masks can be dropped into Stakelums Office Supplies and Thurles Parish Centre and boxes have been provided for the masks. We ask that only new masks in sealed packaging be donated.



I am very proud of the response to our calls for face masks, the number of masks donated is far beyond what we expected when we decided to help Fr. Martin. I take this opportunity to thank everybody who has donated so far as your support will make a big difference to those in need, he said.
A judge has decided an Idaho woman charged with conspiring with her new husband to kill her two children is still not fit to participate in her own court proceedings
Bluefin Granted Patent for ShieldConex Data Security Technology

In films and documentaries of the past, bank robbers wore black, carried revolvers and entered the bank wearing a mask and a menacing demeanor. Today, the idea seems almost quaint: most bank robbers are digital thieves who subvert customer information online to steal money, or even company employees who raid the companys data banks to retrieve and sell personal information. Call center employees in particular are often privy to customers most private information.

To prevent digital theft, many companies are taking extra steps to shield personally identifiable data from theft both external and internal. Payment and data security solutions provider Bluefin recently announced their first U.S. patent on the companys ShieldConex data security platform for the tokenized encryption of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), Protected Health Information (PHI), and payment/ACH account data.

The company has been granted U.S patent 11,070,534, entitled, Systems for Vaultless Tokenization and Encryption, covering an iFrame service for collecting data, a tokenization service for (de)tokenizing and encrypting/decrypting data, and managing and creating templates for iFrame collection, (de)tokenization, and encryption/decryption.

ShieldConex uses both hardware-based encryption and vaultless tokenization to secure PII, PHI, cardholder data (CHD) and ACH account data entered online. All ShieldConex tokens are format preserving and the option exists to maintain portions of the tokenized data, such as the last four digits of a social security number, preserving the usefulness of the data in tokenized form while being database-friendly for developers. Additionally, the vaultless nature of the solution means customers always retain their data  ShieldConex tokenizes the sensitive data and returns it to the customer  and also eliminates issues of data sovereignty, while guaranteeing higher performance than legacy token vault-based solutions.

Companies can also directly connect to ShieldConex for online data encryption and tokenization via Bluefins API.

There is more sensitive data being entered online than ever before, thanks in part to the pandemic, said Ruston Miles, Bluefins founder. E-commerce purchasing has risen dramatically, people are utilizing healthcare forms to enter everything from insurance information to their medical history, and as a result, hackers are going after the online channel. ShieldConex provides an easy to implement solution that protects any type of online data upon entry, in transit and in system storage.

Edited by Luke Bellos
[September 09, 2021] Amolyt Pharma Exercises Option to License Optimized Acromegaly Drug Candidate from PeptiDream as it Continues to Build its Rare Endocrine Pipeline

LYON, France, and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Amolyt Pharma, a global company specialized in developing therapeutic peptides for rare endocrine and related diseases, and PeptiDream Inc., a public Kanagawa, Japan-based biopharmaceutical company (PeptiDream)(Tokyo: 4587), today announced that Amolyt Pharma has exercised its option to globally license a portfolio of macrocyclic peptide growth hormone receptor antagonists (GHRA) under the terms of its research collaboration agreement with PeptiDream announced in December 2020. The identified, optimized drug candidate, AZP-3813, is being developed as a potential treatment for acromegaly to be used in combination with somatostatin analogues (SSAs) for patients who do not adequately respond to SSAs alone.

The addition of acromegaly as a target indication for our company is a strategic fit with our existing pipeline as we build a portfolio of therapeutic peptides to address unmet medical needs in rare endocrine and related diseases, stated Thierry Abribat, Ph.D., founder and chief executive officer of Amolyt Pharma. Without effective treatment, acromegaly can lead to a significant number of serious medical complications, and it is estimated that over 60% of patients still have uncontrolled insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels despite the use of current treatments, including SSAs. Through our collaboration with PeptiDream, we have evaluated several optimized macrocyclic peptide GHRAs, and we have selected AZP-3813 as our lead product candidate. We anticipate developing AZP-3813 as a potential next-generation GHRA therapeutic to provide greater efficacy to a broader range of patients with acromegaly. We are already working to advance this candidate through IND-enabling studies with the goal of initiating the first clinical trial by the end of 2022. Patrick C. Reid, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of PeptiDream, added, We are very pleased to have identified an optimized drug candidate for further development in acromegaly through our research collaboration with Amolyt Pharma. With their peptide development capabilities, we believe Amolyt Pharma is well-suited to develp this therapeutic and to bring a much-needed new treatment option to acromegaly patients. We look forward to supporting the Amolyt Pharma team in this process and to continuing this productive partnership between our companies.



About Acromegaly

Acromegaly is a rare chronic endocrine disorder that is typically caused by an adenoma (benign tumor) of the pituitary gland and characterized by abnormally high levels of growth hormone (GH), secreted by the pituitary gland, which leads to excess production of IGF-1. Common features in patients with acromegaly include enlargement of the hands, feet and jaw. Medical complications include cardiovascular disease, cardiomyopathy that can potentially lead to heart failure, impaired glucose tolerance with subsequent development of diabetes, hypogonadism, bone and joint disease, cerebrovascular events, sleep apnea and impaired respiratory function. The mean age of diagnosis is 40 to 45 years, but acromegaly is often diagnosed 4 to 10 years after onset due to its slow progression. It is estimated that there are 26,000 acromegaly patients in the United States and an additional 35,000 patients in the European Union. About Amolyt Pharma

Amolyt Pharma, a clinical stage biotechnology company, is building on its teams established expertise in therapeutic peptides to deliver life-changing treatments to patients suffering from rare endocrine and related diseases. Its portfolio includes AZP-3601, a long-acting PTH analog as a potential treatment of hypoparathyroidism, AZP-3813, a macrocyclic peptide growth hormone receptor antagonist for the potential treatment of acromegaly, and AZP-3404, which is undergoing indication selection work. Amolyt Pharma aims to further expand and develop its portfolio by leveraging its global network in the field of endocrinology and with support from a strong syndicate of international investors. To learn more, visit www.amolytpharma.com or follow us on Twitter at @AmolytPharma.

About PeptiDream

PeptiDream Inc. is a public (TSE: 4587) biopharmaceutical company founded in 2006 employing its proprietary Peptide Discovery Platform System (PDPS), a state-of-the-art highly versatile discovery platform which enables the production of highly diverse (trillions) non-standard peptide libraries with high efficiency, for the identification of highly potent and selective hit candidates, which then can be developed into peptide-based, small molecule-based or peptide-drug conjugate therapeutics. PeptiDream aspires to be a world leader in drug discovery and development to address unmet medical needs and improve the quality of life of patients worldwide. For further information, please visit https://www.peptidream.com. At Amolyt: Media:

Cherilyn Cecchini, M.D.

LifeSci Communications

ccecchini@lifescicomms.com

+1.646.876.5196 Investors:

Ashley Robinson

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

arr@lifesciadvisors.com

+1.617.430.7577 At PeptiDream: Investors and Media:

Yuko Okimoto, Ph.D.

IR & Public Affairs

y-okimoto@peptidream.com



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[September 09, 2021] Blue Prism Sees Growing Demand for Its Intelligent Automation Across All Industry Sectors

Diversifying revenue demonstrates the value and versatility of Blue Prism products and solutions LONDON and AUSTIN, Texas, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Conceived as a secure and robust robotic process automation (RPA) tool, Blue Prism has had a successful history as a trusted automation partner with financial institutions, from retail banking to wealth management. Twenty years later, its leading enterprise intelligent automation platform is delivering substantial business value in multiple industry verticals across Forbes Global 2,000 and mid-market businesses. Blue Prism's success across industry verticals can be attributed to a strong focus on addressing the most important industry-specific business drivers with automation, for greatest impact. In energy and utilities, Blue Prism's intelligent automation platform is helping improve, among other things, customer experience, contact center operations, outbound customer service and the use of omni-channel virtual agents. This sharp focus on industry solutions has contributed to Blue Prism's substantial growth, particularly within industries such as energy and utilities, the public sector, and manufacturing. "As part of their transformation programs, companies and organizations in each industry are looking at automation as a way to improve efficiency, quality, service innovation, workers' effectiveness, visibility into operations performance, auditability, compliance and risk management," says Roberta Bigliani, group vice president, head of insights, IDC Europe. "Companies are on the journey to more extensively apply automation for value creation across multiple areas: in customer operations and engagement, citizen and patient experience; in core business processes, from the underwriting process in insurance, to tax management, or payment management; and in asset operations  being factories, networks, pipelines, facilities or other physical and financial assets." In Insurance, Blue Prism continues to break new ground, using intelligent automation to streamline the entire customer experience, from quotes to underwriting, mid-term adjustments, renewals, and customer service.



the United States , to help realize improvements across the front and back office, including areas such as customer operations, supply chain, and finance. With dozens of automations in production, intelligent automation has proven a key component in supporting Consolidated Edison's goal of delivering safe, reliable, quality service at the lowest attainable cost for its customers. Jack Deem, finance director at Consolidated Edison, said: "Blue Prism intelligent automation is becoming increasingly utilized across our organization and is a key factor in driving operational efficiency and effectiveness. By reducing the time our people spend on repetitive, manual tasks, we are able to redeploy the hours saved to both achieve bottom-line cost savings as well as invest additional time in value-added analytical activities."

In healthcare too, intelligent automation is creating new patient engagement models that have been critical in addressing digital transformation. Blue Prism solutions have played an important role in the fight against COVID-19. Areas of deployment include patient scheduling, remote consultations, logistics and supply management, vaccine management, and many more. In manufacturing, a successful growth area for Blue Prism, an American agricultural machinery manufacturer has future-proofed its business using the robotic operating model (ROM). The company has automated over 60 processes, returning more than 94,000 work hours to the business every year and has deployed Blue Prism digital workers in finance, purchasing, HR, manufacturing, marketing, and IT. In telecommunications, British Telecom (BT) has used Blue Prism as its service provider of choice to roll out over 400 automations across the business. In one instance, it has stabilized the demand on contact centers impacted by the pandemic by using automation to deploy a fault diagnostics robot, providing an entirely new digital channel for its customers to reach BT. Customers can communicate issues to BT's robot via text, automatically trigger diagnostic checks, and book an engineer visit to investigate the issue. "I see BT becoming a more interesting place to work. We'll be a much more responsive organization," said Christian Smart, head of process automation, BT. "Using Blue Prism's digital workers, we'll be able to do what we do faster, which will lead to hugely improved customer experience and, ultimately, shareholder value." Now an integral component for digital transformation, Blue Prism's industry specific solutions are proving their versatility and importance in driving key strategic business outcomes. Notes to editors: Blue Prism is a global leader in enterprise robotic process automation (RPA) and intelligent automation, transforming the way work is done. We have over 2,000 customers in over 170 countries and 70 industry verticals, 30% in the Forbes Global 2,000, creating value with new ways of working by unlocking efficiencies and returning millions of hours of work back into their businesses. Our enterprise digital robots offer high-scale automation that is secure, smart, accessible to all, enabling centrally managed human and digital workforces of the future and freeing up humans to re-imagine work. To learn more visit www.blueprism.com and follow us on Twitter @blue_prism and on LinkedIn .  2021 Blue Prism Limited. "Blue Prism", the "Blue Prism" logo and Prism device are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Blue Prism Limited and its affiliates. All Rights Reserved. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1611954/Blue_Prism_Shows_Strength_Across_Sectors.jpg

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[September 09, 2021] Chip Childers Joins Puppet as Chief Architect

PORTLAND, Ore., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Puppet, the industry standard for infrastructure automation, today announced Chip Childers as chief architect. Childers brings more than 20 years of technology expertise in large-scale computing and open source software. He has a deep understanding of the vast cloud-native ecosystem and will play a pivotal role in supporting Puppets Research and Development team to reach platform and product goals.

Puppets technology runs some of the worlds most crucial businesses in the most demanding environments. The company continues to invest in key talent to drive innovation and growth within the infrastructure automation and DevOps space as automation needs become even more critical to businesses. Last year, Puppet secured $40 million in new funding to support its growth as it continues to scale operations and build out its product portfolio to address new infrastructure needs in the market. Theres high growth potential in the infrastructure automation space and Puppets independence and brand credibility were key reasons I decided to take this role, said Childers. Leveraging twelve years of experience, Puppet is extremely well-positioned to help the largest companies as they make the shift to cloud-native architectures and manage the most complex infrastructure environments i a way that works hand in glove with security and compliance. Im thrilled to join Puppet and help build the next era of products and services that will take our customers into the future.



Chip brings extensive experience in product and technology strategy and leadership, and possesses a deep understanding of open source and the underpinning cloud native technologies that are dramatically impacting how automation and operations work today, said Abby Kearns, CTO at Puppet. I worked closely with Chip at the Cloud Foundry Foundation and Im delighted to be reunited with him here at Puppet. He knows how to get work done by empowering and collaborating with the people around him. Childers co-founded the Cloud Foundry Foundation, where he worked as Chief Technology Officer for over five years. In 2020, he assumed the Executive Director position previously held by Puppet CTO Abby Kearns. Earlier in his career, Childers was VP of product strategy at CumuLogic. He led SunGards Enterprise Cloud Services and became the first VP of Apache Cloudstack, a platform he helped drive. Childers' background also includes rebuilding mission-critical applications for organizations such as IRS.gov, USMint.gov, Merrill Lynch and SEI Investments.

Additional Resources

Learn more about Puppet

Follow Puppet on Twitter and LinkedIn

Read our blog About Puppet

Puppet helps enterprises modernize and manage their infrastructure with the solutions to automate anywhere, reliably scale, and integrate compliance and security across hybrid infrastructure. More than 40,000 organizations  including more than 80 percent of the Global 5000  have benefited from Puppets open source and commercial solutions to ensure business continuity, optimize costs, boost compliance and ensure security, all while accelerating the adoption of DevOps practices and delivery of self-service. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, Puppet is a privately held company with offices in London, Belfast, Singapore, Sydney and Timi?oara. Learn more at puppet.com. A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/771183f8-e595-4611-af41-a38eb9b0cc67

Media Contact Zibby Keaton Director of Marketing and Communications at Puppet pr@puppet.com

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[September 09, 2021] Cybint brings its state-of-the-art cybersecurity bootcamp to Michigan with Kettering University partnership

FLINT, Mich., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cybint , a global cyber education training company, has announced a partnership with KetteringGlobalX , a division of Kettering Global , and Kettering University , a private, non-profit university that offers its students a wide range of Bachelor and Master-level degree programs. The university will host Cybint's award-winning cybersecurity bootcamp online this fall, welcoming learners looking to change gears in their career by getting their foot in the door of the prestigious cybersecurity industry. In the wake of a string of advanced digital attacks on major private-sector targets , cybersecurity sits at the top of the agenda in the United States. The incidents have prompted legislators to come out with a bipartisan bill beefing up local cybersecurity budgets as well as demanding more incident reports from businesses. With bolstered digital defenses becoming a key strategic priority for Washington, the issue of the gaping talent deficit in the field becomes critical, particularly when cybersecurity teams across the nation are understaffed, strained, and working themselves into the ground .



Through its partnership with Kettering University, ranked by usnews.com as ninth best regional Midwestern university, Cybint helps to train the new cyber talent needed to fill this gap. The institution will offer Cybint's six-month training program to its alumni, as well as individual and corporate clients, including those with little to no prior IT experience. The first bootcamp is set to kick off in October, guiding the students through a robust program oriented toward hands-on training via 60 lab simulations and over 100 exercises. After graduating, the alumni will have gained the skills and knowledge needed to apply for and succeed in entry-level cybersecurity positions. Cybint's course is designed after the fast-track training programs used in the military. It introduces its students to the most up-to-date practices in the field and features rigorous practical training sessions simulating real-life situations. Since 2014, Cybint has trained over 10,000 individuals across four continents. More than 90 percent of Cybint bootcamp graduates land jobs in cybersecurity shortly after completing the intensive course.

"We are thrilled to be launching our bootcamp in the Great Lake State together with Kettering University," says Roy Zur, Founder and CEO of Cybint. "The demand for cybersecurity talent is soaring, and the best way for higher education bodies to fill this gap is by partnering with bootcamps. Such programs are designed to empower students to get down to work in the field from day one after landing the job, which is what the industry needs right now." "By teaming up with Cybint, we're giving our clients an accessible and accelerated program designed to help learners' upskill and enter a highly-demanded professional field," says Janie Jacobs, corporate training manager, at Kettering University. "Cybersecurity is set to remain a key priority for nations and businesses in the years to come, and Cybint's top-notch program is hugely significant in future-proofing our students' careers." Learn more about the Cybint Cybersecurity Bootcamp with KetteringGlobalX here: https://globalx.kettering.edu/pages/cybersecurity-bootcamp About Cybint Cybint is a global cyber education company with a commitment to reskilling the workforce and upskilling the industry in cybersecurity. With innovative and leading-edge education and training solutions, Cybint tackles cybersecurity's two greatest threats: the talent shortage and the skills gap. The Cybint team is comprised of military cyber experts, industry professionals, and educators united under the vision of creating a safer digital world through education, training, and collaboration. For more information, visit www.cybintsolutions.com About Kettering University Kettering University, formerly known as GMI, is a Flint, Michigan-based private, nonprofit university recognized as one of the nation's premier science, technology, engineering and business leaders in higher education. Dedicated to offering a curriculum that uniquely integrates classroom learning with experiential co-operative opportunities, Kettering consistently ranks in U.S. News & World Report's listing for elite specialty schools. The University has more than 27,000 square feet of lab and research space used by faculty, students and industry collaborators, and houses the first and only FIRST Robotics Community Center on a college campus in the United States. According to a 2019 analysis of federal data ranking 4,500 schools nationwide, Kettering University degree holders have the highest lifetime return on investment (ROI) in the state of Michigan. The University celebrated its centennial year in 2019. For more information, go to kettering.edu . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cybint-brings-its-state-of-the-art-cybersecurity-bootcamp-to-michigan-with-kettering-university-partnership-301372443.html SOURCE Cybint

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[September 09, 2021] DEGEN LIZZY: NEW ERA OF SOLANA NFTS

Paris, France, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Whether youre into crypto or not, it is very possible that you have heard about NFTs if you have been on social media of late. The current crypto price discovery is predominantly led by the peoples interest in NFTs where some who bought NFTs around mere $100 became instant millionaires a few days later. So much so, even institutions like Visa recently announced that they purchased a CryptoPunk NFT which they spent over 6 figures on.

Degen Lizzy, is an orphaned chameleon from the wild wild west who grew up all by himself in a physically and mentally demanding environment. The Degen Lizzy, with 10000 unique moods, is on a mission to save the community and in search of its rightful partner. The main cause of the project is to support the cause of Chameleon conservation where over 36% of the current Chameleon population is said to be on the verge of extinction. The unique story line and killer suspension has garnered so much hype around the crypto community in the Solana blockchain even before its launch. Unlike many other NFT projects in the market, Degen Lizzy is a hand-drawn unique character with many supplementary attributes and more importantly has a well-developed roadmap. The team members behind Degen Lizzy are veterans in the Blockchain space across many platforms. They have selected Solana for its scalability, faster transaction speeds and lower gas fees that allows anyone to purchase the NFTs without having to worry about high gas fees to buy, list, sell or trade. The launch itself is going to be a fair launch where everyone is free to purchse at the listing price. Early supporters of the project will get a head start to buy their Degen Lizzy NFTs at the launch day.



The marketing and the roadmap are truly what seems to have the most promise in the project. There are many marketing initiatives lined up leading up to the sale day and many influencers and internet celebrities who back the project in the days to come. More importantly, post sale marketing campaigns to engage the community. These include surprise drops for the holders and super rare AR Degen Lizzy moods. The designs are unique and hand-drawn by some of the most talented digital artists today. Much attention to detail was exerted in creating unique moods where the Degen Lizzy learned the art of living, surviving in the wild wild west. Gauging what the value or the use of a NFT would be is something that has been a challenge for quite some time, but these diverse moods of the Degen Lizzy provides an experience unlike others in the marketplace. More importantly, as its rightful partner, it shows as a status symbol for being considerate about the conservation of the Chameleon population who are at a great risk of survival even at this point of writing.

The best way to get involved with Degen Lizzy is to buy one from the sale itself. They are offering 10,000 mints for sale at a minting price of 5 SOL. From there, the collection will be transported to our listing partner where collectors will have the ability to buy, sell or showcase these NFTs. Want to know more? Follow them here: Web: www.degenlizzy.art

Discord: https://discord.gg/7zvPc5qgAH

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DegenLizzy_NFT

Medium: https://medium.com/@degenlizzyNFT

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/degenlizzy.nft

Email: contact@degenlizzy.art Media Contact - Contact name  Paul Heading Email  degenlizzy@gmail.com Company  Degen Lizzy NFT Source Link



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[September 09, 2021] DSM receives first full market authorizations for methane-reducing feed additive Bovaer for beef and dairy in Brazil and Chile

SAO PAULO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Royal DSM, a global science-based company active in nutrition, health and sustainable living, has received full regulatory approval from the Brazilian and Chilean authorities to commercialize Bovaer, its novel methane-reducing feed additive for ruminants. These first market authorizations, covering beef, dairy, sheep and goats, mark a significant milestone for DSM. Intense collaboration among scientists and external partners across the globe has made Bovaer a reality. That endeavor, known as Project Clean Cow, encompassed over 10 years, 45 on-farm trials in 13 countries across 4 continents, and more than 48 peer-reviewed studies published in independent scientific journals. Following the first regulatory approvals, DSM can now start introducing its breakthrough innovation to the market. Mauricio Adade, president DSM Latin America, comments: "We are excited that we got these authorizations in Brazil and Chile, which makes Latin America the first continent to get approvals for Bovaer. We are delighted that the Brazilian and Chilean regulatory authorities evaluated Bovaer carefully and efficiently at the same time and included all ruminants and both beef and dairy in their approval. A beef trial with Bovaer at Sao Paolo State University (UNESP) in Brazil conducted in 2016-2017, showed enteric methane emission reductions up to 55%, which highlights the potential of Bovaer for radically more sustainable cattle farming in Latin America. We are looking forward to collaborating with the Brazilian and Chilean farming sectors to further lower their carbon footprint." Mark van Nieuwland, Program Director at DSM, continues: "The recent IPCC's climate change report is a massive wake-up call for us all about the irreversible power of global warming. In it, the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) also stated that a rapid reduction of methane emissions could reduce the spread of global warming in the near term and have a positive effect on air quality. We know the agricultural and livestock sectors recognize this opportunity for change and are eager to act. We are very excited to now gradually scale up our commercialization activities and prepare our supply chain with a special focus on Brazil and Chile, and finalize new business models to bring this unique product to market, while recognizing the farmers for their efforts in reducing methane emissions." "Ahea of COP26, it is even clearer that we need to act now so that we get to the middle of the century with net zero emissions, as stipulated in the Paris Agreement. This is why seeing the commitment made by agribusiness, a vital sector for the Brazilian economy, is important to us and the world. In this context, DSMs initiative to reduce the cattle herds methane emissions through feed is a corporate solution aligned with the challenges we face ahead and is also an effective way to transition towards a net zero economy," comments Marina Grossi, President of the Brazilian Business Council for Sustainable Development (CEBDS).



"The supplementation with BOVAER is an efficient strategy to reduce methane emissions by finishing feedlot beef cattle, without adverse effects on performance.", says Ricardo Reis, UNESP DS, Professor. The need to provide enough animal protein for a growing population, while reducing the environmental costs of farming requires smart science and innovative solutions. To address this challenge, DSM's Animal Nutrition and Health business last year launched its strategic initiative We Make it Possible . Its mission is to lead a robust and achievable transformation worldwide in sustainable animal protein production, and to accelerate solutions that will foster a brighter future. Market introduction of Bovaer is a major step in delivering on this strategic initiative.

About Bovaer Bovaer is a feed additive for cows (and other ruminants, such as sheep, goats, and deer) researched and developed over 10 years by DSM. Just a quarter teaspoon of Bovaer per cow per day consistently reduces enteric methane emission by approximately 30% for dairy cows and even higher percentages (up till 90%) for beef cows. The feed additive Bovaer therefore contributes to a significant and immediate reduction of the environmental footprint of meat, milk and dairy products. Bovaer is the most extensively studied and scientifically proven solution to the challenge of burped methane to date. Upon feeding, It takes effect immediately. After suppressing methane production in the stomach, it is broken down into compounds already naturally present in the cow's stomach. DSM  Bright Science. Brighter Living.

Royal DSM is a global, purpose-led, science-based company active in Nutrition, Health and Sustainable Living. DSM's purpose is to create brighter lives for all. DSM addresses with its products and solutions some of the world's biggest challenges while simultaneously creating economic, environmental and societal value for all its stakeholders  customers, employees, shareholders, and society at large. DSM delivers innovative solutions for human nutrition, animal nutrition, personal care and aroma, medical devices, green products and applications, and new mobility and connectivity. DSM and its associated companies deliver annual net sales of about 10 billion with approximately 23,000 employees. The company was founded in 1902 and is listed on Euronext Amsterdam. More information can be found at www.dsm.com. Or find us on: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/DSMcompany

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/DSM

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/3108

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/dsmcompany For more information:

DSM Animal Nutrition & Health

Mirelle van der Kreeft

Mirelle.kreeft-van-der@dsm.com Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/329419/dsm_logo.jpg

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[September 09, 2021] ECS Named Prime on $36.7 Million USCENTCOM Contract

ECS, a leader in advanced technology, science, and engineering solutions, has been awarded a five-year, $36.7 million contract by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM). Through this firm fixed-priced, prime contract, ECS will support CENTCOM's Operations Directorate Command and Control Division (CCJ3/C) as they execute military operations critical to regional security and the country's enduring interests. ECS will provide CENTCOM with the personnel, supervision, and services necessary to support critical missions and operations. ECS subject matter experts will perform classified and unclassified work in areas of command and control (C2), information sharing collaboration and innovation (ISCI), information management (IM), knowledge management (KM), as well as coalition interoperability and security cooperation. ECS experts will also provide support for missile defense and unmanned aircraft systems and applications. "CENTCOM leads vital missions in dynamic and challenging environments," said Marshall Thames, senior vice president of mission solutions at ECS. "We look forward to working with them and the component commands as they execute missions critical to global security."



"The new CENTCOM contract is a continuation of our longtime partnership with the Department of Defense (DoD)," said John Heneghan, chief operating officer at ECS. "Our experience will help us deliver crucial mission solutions that strengthen the security posture of CENTCOM's forces as well as those of our coalition partners." About ECS

ECS, ASGN's federal government segment, delivers advanced solutions in cloud, cybersecurity, data and artificial intelligence (AI), application and IT modernization, science, and engineering. The company solves critical, complex challenges for customers across the U.S. public sector, defense, intelligence, and commercial industries. ECS maintains partnerships with leading cloud, cybersecurity, and AI/ML providers and holds specialized certifications in their technologies. Headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, ECS has more than 3,500 employees throughout the United States. For more information, visit ECStech.com. About ASGN Incorporated ASGN Incorporated (NYSE: ASGN) is one of the leading providers of IT services and professional solutions, including technology, creative, and digital, across the commercial and government sectors. ASGN helps leading corporate enterprises and government organizations develop, implement and operate critical IT and business solutions through its integrated offering of professional staffing and IT solutions. ASGN's mission is to be the most trusted partner for companies seeking highly skilled human capital and integrated solutions to fulfill their strategic and operational needs. For more information, visit us at asgn.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005790/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Glenfarne Group and Partners Group Announce New EnfraGen and Prime Energia Chile Management Appointments

EnfraGen, LLC ("EnfraGen"), a developer, owner, and operator of specialized sustainable and renewable power and grid stability assets in Latin America owned by Glenfarne Group, LLC ("Glenfarne") and leading global private markets firm Partners Group, on behalf of its clients, is pleased to announce the growth and strengthening of its executive team for the Prime Energia Chile business. Mr. Rodrigo Cienfuegos Pinto, who currently serves as Chief Executive Officer, has been appointed to the new position of President, effective from September 15, 2021, with Mr. Jose Arosa replacing Mr. Cienfuegos as Chief Executive Officer while also serving in a dual role as EnfraGen's Executive Vice President, Commercialization. Mr. Arosa will report to EnfraGen's President, Bryan Murphy. Mr. Cienfuegos was Prime Energia Chile's first employee in 2014 having played a leading role in Prime's efforts to acquire, develop, build, and operate the grid stability plants that are vital to Chile's power grid. Over the last seven years, Mr. Cienfuegos has overseen the dramatic growth of the Prime Energia Chile business from 0 megawatts to over 1000 megawatts including projects under development and construction. This intensive growth includes more than a dozen solar plants and nine grid stability plants. As President of Prime Energia Chile, Mr. Cienfuegos will serve as a senior advisor to the company's leadership team. Mr. Cienfuegos said, "It has been an honor to serve as CEO of Prime Energia Chile working with Glenfarne, Partners Group, and the EnfraGen and Prime Energia Chile teams to start and grow a new business that has become a vital part of the Chile's energy infrastructure. I am excited for Prime's future and am glad to continue being part of the Prime Energia Chile team as the business grows." Mr. Arosa joins EnfraGen from serving as President and CEO of AES Mexico where he oversaw the operating portfolio in Mexico for AES and was tasked with the growth strategy for EnerAB, a joint venture with Grupo BAL focused in developing clean energy projects. Mr. Arosa joined the AES Corporation in 2008 serving in various leadership roles in business development and mergers and acquisitions in several countries including in Chile. He also led the Mexican entry strategy for Inkia Energy as Country Manager for Mexico and was in charge of the development team for InterGen in the Americas. Mr. Arosa holds a BSc & MSc in Chemical Engineering from Universidad Alfonso X El Sabio and an MBA from the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business. "I am honored to be joining EnfraGen and Prime Energia Chile during this exciting time of expansion and growth for the company," said Arosa. "EnfraGen has quickly become a preeminent company in the Latin American energy infrstructure sector and a leader in furthering the energy transition through providing flexible capacity to support the grid where it operates and competitive energy through its renewables portfolio. I look forward to working with the talented EnfraGen and Prime Energia Chile teams to accomplishing our ambitious objectives."



EnfraGen President, Bryan Murphy said, "Rodrigo was at the forefront of critical thinking about energy transition in Chile and beyond and the innovative concept for grid stability plants in Chile, later paired with distributed renewable generation, came from him. Prime Energia would not exist today in its current form if it wasn't for Rodrigo, and we are grateful for his dedication and effort to build our Chilean business. We look forward to his continued support of the business. At the same time, we are pleased that Jose has chosen to join EnfraGen to lead Prime Energia Chile. We look forward to the success we are confident he and the team will achieve under his leadership. Jose's experience coupled with Rodrigo's knowledge of the Chilean power market and his network of resources will aid the continued growth of our Chile business." About EnfraGen, LLC

EnfraGen is a developer, owner, and operator of grid stability and value-added renewable energy infrastructure businesses across Latin American investment-grade countries. EnfraGen's grid stability assets supply flexible capacity and energy to local and regional grids in support of renewable power plant intermittent energy production. EnfraGen's renewable plants are smaller scale, distributed solar photovoltaic and hydroelectric assets that take advantage of unique access points to electrical infrastructure or are located in optimized geographical locations. The business' mission is to support the transition to zero-carbon emission electric grids. EnfraGen is jointly controlled by Glenfarne Group, LLC, and global private markets firm Partners Group, on behalf of its clients, and has operational and in-construction assets across its subsidiaries totaling over 1.7GW of installed capacity in operation. The company, including its affiliates and subsidiaries, is supported by a team of approximately 325 professionals. EnfraGen maintains offices and assets in Chile, Panama, Colombia, and the United States. About Glenfarne Group, LLC Glenfarne is a privately held energy and infrastructure development and management firm based in New York City and Houston, Texas with offices in Dallas, Texas, Panama City, Panama; Santiago, Chile, and Bogota, Colombia. Glenfarne's seasoned executives, asset managers, and operators develop, acquire, manage, and operate energy and infrastructure assets throughout North and South America and Asia. For more information, please visit www.glenfarnegroup.com. About Partners Group Partners Group is a leading global private markets firm. Since 1996, the firm has invested over USD 150 billion in private equity, private real estate, private debt and private infrastructure on behalf of its clients globally. Partners Group seeks to generate strong returns through capitalizing on thematic growth trends and transforming attractive businesses and assets into market leaders. The firm is a committed, responsible investor and aims to create sustainable returns with lasting, positive impact for all its stakeholders. With USD 119 billion in assets under management as of 30 June 2021, Partners Group provides an innovative range of bespoke client solutions to institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, family offices and private individuals globally. The firm employs more than 1,500 diverse professionals across 20 offices worldwide and has regional headquarters in Baar-Zug, Switzerland; Denver, USA; and Singapore. It has been listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since 2006 (symbol: PGHN). For more information, please visit www.partnersgroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn or Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006083/en/

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[September 09, 2021]

Growatt sets up a joint laboratory with Texas Instruments for sustainable energy applications

SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Aiming to promote sustainable energy applications, Growatt, a global leading inverter supplier, has set up a joint laboratory with global semiconductor company Texas Instruments (TI) in the city of Shenzhen, China.

The joint laboratory aims to support Growatt to use TI's advanced semiconductor technologies and products to achieve an optimized photovoltaic (PV) energy storage solution. By leveraging TI's products and support, R&D engineers from Growatt plan to bring new upgrades and innovations in the energy efficiency, functional safety and intelligent solutions of inverter applications. .

or the newly established joint laboratory, TI will recommend products and solutions and provide development tools and resources to help facilitate research and development in sustainable energy applications.







"Establishing a joint lab with TI will enable us to develop intelligent, powerful and reliable solar inverters and storage batteries that can reshape the future of energy," said David Ding, Growatt President and CEO. "Leveraging the cutting-edge semiconductor technologies of TI, Growatt will be able to accelerate the advancements of solar PV and energy storage technologies to help our communities to achieve their carbon-neutral goals."

"Supporting innovation for new infrastructure areas such as energy innovation in industrial systems is a key initiative for TI," said Ryan Wang, General Manager of TI Shenzhen Office. "This collaboration can help accelerate designers' implementation of TI's innovative technology into new PV energy storage applications."

With solar being an affordable source of energy generation, and battery storage cost continuously dropping, the establishment of a joint lab between Growatt and TI can help take clean energy technologies to the next level and deliver advanced, smart and powerful energy solutions.

Contact: Whiskey Lu, whiskey.lu@growatt.com

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SOURCE Growatt
[September 09, 2021] GS Foods Group Acquires C&C Produce to Strengthen Existing and Future Operations

GS Foods Group, Inc. ("GS Foods" or the "Company"), a leading specialized food distributor owned by affiliates of Highview Capital, LLC ("Highview") and A&M Capital Partners ("AMCP"), today announced its acquisition of C&C Produce ("C&C") - a leading specialty distributor of produce products based in Kansas City, Missouri. C&C's owners will continue to lead operations from its current facilities in partnership with GS Foods' senior leadership team. Established in 1992, C&C operates the largest produce warehouse in the Midwest - serving over 4,000 customer locations across six states with superior products. Going forward, C&C's owners will collaborate closely with the GS Foods' team as the two companies ensure a seamless transition and continued operational excellence. With more than 50 years of industry experience, GS Foods encompasses a family of specialized foodservice companies that provide trusted food distribution and product solutions nationwide. GS Foods' investment in C&C will strengthen C&C's existing operations and incorporate its specialized produce scale and service to further enhance value to GS Foods' customers in end markets such as education, foodservice and retail. "The acquisition of C&C represents an exciting, strategic expansion for GS Foods as we continue to build out our geographic footprint and product offerings," said Sean Leer, CEO, GS Foods. "We're looking forward to working with the C&C team and leveraging their unique expertise to deepen the service we provide to our customers as they join the GS Foods family." "Building this company from the ground up has been a challenging and extremely rewarding venture, and we are incredibly proud of what we have built over the years," said Nick Conforti and Joe Cali, Co-Owners, C&C. "Together with our dedicated team, we've grown from a local farm stand to one of the leading produce partners for grocers, retailers and school districts throughout the Midwest. This partnership with GS Foods is the next step in our journey as we continue to serve our communities and look down the road towards expanded opportunities. We look forward to extending this commitment to excellence into our merger with GS Foods, and to working together to build an even stronger future." "GS Foods' investment in C&C represents a significant, unique partnership in the foodservice distribution industry as the Company continues to expand its capabilities and its national footprint," said Steve Russell, Managing Director and Sr. Portfolio Manager, Highview. "We believe C&C's unparalleled focus on their customers and commitment to high-quality, high-value products make them an excellent fit for GS Foods' portfolio - and we look forward to seeing how this new partnership further builds upon their shared mission." GS Foods is focused on continuing to grow its business and finding ways to better serve its 8,00 customers throughout the United States. The acquisition of C&C follows other recent acquisitions including Classic Delight, School Lunch Products, Inc., Fresno Produce and Hayes Distributing, as well as the opening of new distribution centers in Pennsylvania, Texas, Colorado and Oregon.



To learn more about GS Foods, visit: GSFoodsGroup.com and to learn more about C&C, visit: CCProduce.net. About GS Foods Group

GS Foods Group ("GS Foods") is a family of specialized foodservice distribution companies. GS Foods uses its sophisticated network of facilities to provide trusted food distribution and product solutions to specialized foodservice segments, including education, corrections, non-profit, business & industry and healthcare. GS Foods' independent subsidiaries, Good Source (News - Alert) Solutions, Inc. and Gold Star Foods, Inc., collectively serve over 8,000 customers nationwide. GS Foods is owned by affiliates of Highview Capital, LLC and A&M Capital Partners. About Highview Capital, LLC Highview Capital, LLC is an opportunistic private equity investment vehicle headquartered in Los Angeles, CA (News - Alert) , with approximately $500 million in assets under management providing transformational equity. Highview leverages its creative vision and expertise to partner with management teams of leading middle-market businesses undergoing periods of transformation, including growth, expansion or performance improvement. For more information, visit www.highviewcp.com. About A&M Capital Partners A&M Capital Partners is Alvarez & Marsal Capital's flagship investment strategy focused on middle-market control transactions in North America with total assets under management of approximately $1.8 billion. AMCP partners with founders, corporates and management teams, providing the capital and strategic assistance that we believe is required to take businesses to the next level of success. AMCP invests in businesses across a wide range of sectors including Business Services, Industrials, Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, Healthcare, Consumer & Retail, Government Services, Financial Services and Energy Services. More broadly, Alvarez & Marsal Capital is a multi-strategy private equity investment firm with over $3.05 billion in total assets under management across four investment strategies, which maintains a strategic association with Alvarez & Marsal, one of the largest operationally-focused advisory firms in the world. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005161/en/

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[September 09, 2021] How Cobwebs Technologies WEBINT Platform Helps Intelligence Agencies in Their Efforts to Prevent Terror Attacks

NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cobwebs Technologies announced today that its AI-powered WEBINT platform helps intelligence officers and analysts with their (counter)intelligence activities to prevent terrorist attacks. The 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington, DC by Al Qaeda shook the world, taking authorities by surprise. Looking back and analyzing how the terrorists were able to achieve this, it becomes clear that intelligence and counterintelligence played a major part. Al Qaeda at its end used gathered and analyzed information to make highly accurate and realistic assessments of its operating environment during its preparations, resulting in careful planning. In contrast, previous planned and executed attacks aimed at U.S. targets were not part of the threat analysis of Western security agencies. For example, the 1992 terror attack when a truck bomb exploded below the North Tower of the World Trade Center, killing six and injuring more than 1,000 people, was quickly forgotten. In 1997, terrorists revealed in court that they planned a bombing to topple the North Tower into the South Tower, bringing them both down with the aim of killing 250,000 Americans. Another terrorist plot involved the assassination of Pope John Paul II during a visit to the Philipines; the blowing up of 11 airliners flying from Asia to the United States with an estimated death toll of 4,000, and crashing a rented plane full of explosives into the CIA Headquarters. Ignoring identified threats based on (counter)intelligence comes at a high price, as the 9/11 calamity that claimed the lives of 3,000 people and cost the economy trillions of dollars in its aftermath, illustrates. Intelligence agencies do not have the manpower and budgets for keeping a contingent of security agents with the sole mandate to sto terrorist attacks. That's why today they rely on collecting and analyzing information from various sources for their threat analyses. These sources include online sources, since terrorists use darknets and other online forums and channels for their planning, recruiting, and purchasing of resources. This requires collecting and analyzing huge amounts of web data for analysis. Also due to time restraints, intelligence agencies are turning to OSINT tools, such as the AI-Powered Web Intelligence platform of Cobwebs, to assist them in their efforts to identify imminent terrorist attacks for follow-up. Such a WEBINT platform allows intelligence officers and analysts to detect and analyze threat actors and map their hidden activity networks and behavior patterns across numerous OSINT sources.



"Our leading web intelligence platform automatically extracts targeted critical insights from big data with advanced and powerful AI machine-learning algorithms. Designed to meticulously scan the surface, deep, and dark web to collect and analyze huge amounts of data in record time, the platform helps intelligence agencies with their threat analysis," explained Udi Levy, CEO & Co-Founder at Cobwebs Technologies, "Our WEBINT platform analyzes content from OSINT websites on the surface, deep, and dark web using highly sophisticated algorithms in order to identify relevant information on e.g., message boards and social networks in various languages. The platform also presents the collected and analyzed data in user-friendly formats such as connection graphs and timelines. The platform can also generate alerts when relevant information crops up to enable faster response times in time-sensitive scenarios." The Cobwebs AI-powered web intelligence platform assists national security agencies in their threat intelligence efforts to prevent terrorist attacks. The platform's predictive analytics and machine-learning algorithms collect and analyze big data, which allows intelligence officers and analysts to get comprehensive insights for making smart, data-driven decisions. The platform also employs Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms to get insight into the sentiments and intentions of (potential) terrorists and context in multiple languages.

With the WEBINT platform of Cobwebs as part of their arsenal, intelligence agencies will be better prepared in their efforts to prevent more terrorist attacks. To learn more, visit www.cobwebs.com or contact us at: info@cobwebs.com Related Images









Image 1: Counter Terror







This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. Attachment Counter Terror



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[September 09, 2021] HSBC Global Wallet Expands Currency Offerings and Provides New Platform Capabilities

HSBC Bank USA, N.A., (HSBC), announced new offerings today for current and new Business Banking customers who buy from or sell to international companies. With HSBC Global Wallet, small and medium sized businesses can now receive, pay, hold and transfer funds between currencies in the same FDIC-insured, US based business account. HSBC Global Wallet is distinguished as the first multi-currency digital wallet accessed from a major US bank's main business banking platform with local payment and collections capabilities. HSBC Global Wallet has expanded its currency offerings to include Chinese Yuan, Japanese Yen, Swiss Francs and Malaysian Ringgit and will continue to add currencies over time. Since early adopters started using HSBC Global Wallet in May 2021, the platform has supported Euros, American Dollars, UK Pound Sterling, Hong Kong Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Singapore Dollars, Australian Dollars. Now, HSBC Global Wallet will also allow customers to both pay and receive payment in multiple foreign currencies, as well as hold and transfer currencies, all from the same business account. The ability to "receive and pay like a local" saves clients time and money, reduces fees and ensures that international payments are made simple and efficiet with a single-account solution.



"This innovative solution is fully integrated with HSBC's existing business banking platform, bringing the strength of the HSBC international network to our small and medium-sized business US customers, supporting a much more efficient expansion of their international businesses," said Drew Douglas, Head of Liquidity & Cash Management, US and Canada. Sending money internationally is often a complex and time-consuming process, with foreign exchange rates frequently changing and high transaction fees. Targeted at small- and medium-sized US businesses with international supply chains, HSBC Global Wallet enables payments and collections US businesses the ability to operate globally with greater confidence.

Click here to learn more about HSBC Global Wallet, including a video illustrating the wallet's functionality. HSBC Global Wallet provides instant access to currencies from within customers' day-to-day banking platform, allowing for greater visibility of cash flow, and is backed by the trust and security of HSBC's global network, with more than 1.3 million business customers in 53 markets. Note to editors: About HSBC HSBC USA HSBC Bank USA, National Association (HSBC Bank USA, N.A.) serves customers through retail banking and wealth management, commercial banking, private banking, and global banking and markets segments. It operates bank branches in: California; Washington, D.C.; Florida; Maryland; New Jersey; New York; Pennsylvania; Virginia; and Washington. HSBC Bank USA, N.A. is the principal subsidiary of HSBC USA Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of HSBC North America Holdings Inc. In the United States, deposit products are offered by HSBC Bank USA, N.A., Member FDIC, investment and brokerage services are provided through HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., (Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC) and insurance products are provided through HSBC Insurance Agency (USA) Inc. HSBC Holdings plc HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of HSBC, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 64 countries and territories in its geographical regions: Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and Middle East and North Africa. With assets of US$2,976bn at 30 June 2021, HSBC is one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005643/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Humana Expands Upon Its Bold Goal Initiative with $25 Million Affordable Housing Investment

As part of its population health strategy to improve the health of its members and communities, Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) today announced a $25 million investment to increase the supply of affordable housing in the states of Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas. Humana considers housing stability to be a key social determinant of health and one of the issues the company is addressing through its Bold Goal social health initiative. "Housing insecurity can disproportionally affect Medicaid-eligible patients and lead to inadequate health outcomes," said John Barger, Humana Medicaid President. "To achieve their best health, people need access to stable, safe and affordable places to live. Humana's national housing strategy is one way we are helping our communities address their housing needs. Through a three-part approach, inclusive of interventions and investments, we aim to reduce health care costs and improve outcomes for some of our most vulnerable members and communities. This latest investment expands upon our housing strategy and will undoubtedly help many struggling to find affordable housing." Humana's national housing strategy is focused on three key areas - Housing Stability and Homelessness Prevention, Stabilizing Individuals with Significant Health Risks with Incremental Clinical Support, and Strategic Investments to Increase Community Capacity. Recent examples of Humana's housing programs include a patnership with legal services organizations in Louisiana to provide tenancy support and eviction diversion for Medicaid recipients, and a partnership with Volunteers of America in Kentucky to provide recovery beds for mothers overcoming substance use disorders. This newest investment will help address the short supply of low-cost rental units, creating affordable housing capacity in many of the communities that Humana serves.



Humana's $25 million investment will be deployed through three syndicated funds that have been established to increase affordable housing capacity through the use of low income housing tax credits (LIHTC). The three syndicators, CREA LLC, PNC (News - Alert) Real Estate and Raymond James work with developers to identify potential affordable housing properties for either rehabilitation or new construction in numerous cities across the country. "To achieve true health equity, we need to address the underlying factors that may prevent people in underserved communities from reaching their best health," said Dr. Nwando Olayiwola, Chief Health Equity Officer at Humana. "Humana is committed to addressing structural and root cause barriers to good health outside of the clinical setting, such as access to healthy food, transportation, social connections and stable housing, to help eliminate unjust differences in health."

About Humana Humana Inc. is committed to helping our millions of medical and specialty members achieve their best health. Our successful history in care delivery and health plan administration is helping us create a new kind of integrated care with the power to improve health and well-being and lower costs. Our efforts are leading to a better quality of life for people with Medicare, families, individuals, military service personnel, and communities at large. To accomplish that, we support physicians and other health care professionals as they work to deliver the right care in the right place for their patients, our members. Our range of clinical capabilities, resources and tools - such as in-home care, behavioral health, pharmacy services, data analytics and wellness solutions - combine to produce a simplified experience with the goal of making health care easier to navigate and more effective. More information regarding Humana is available to investors via the Investor Relations page of the company's website at humana.com, including copies of: Annual reports to stockholders

Securities and Exchange Commission filings

Most recent investor conference presentations

Quarterly earnings news releases and conference calls

Calendar of events

Corporate Governance information. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005311/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Hyperion Metals Appoints Leading U.S. Based Directors

Hyperion Metals Limited (ASX: HYM) is pleased to announce the appointment of Lorraine Martin, Beverly Wyse and Melissa Waller as independent Non-Executive Directors of the Company, effective from 13 September 2021. Lorraine Martin is President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Safety Council, a non-profit with a century-long legacy of eliminating preventable deaths and injuries from the workplace. Ms. Martin has 35 years of experience in aerospace, including leading and developing complex global aircraft programs as a senior executive at Lockheed Martin (News - Alert) . Ms. Martin was Executive Vice President and Deputy of Rotary and Mission Systems where she led a team of 34,000 global employees in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Taiwan, Japan, United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, New Zealand and Australia with operations in more than 75 worldwide facilities. In this role, she spearheaded the successful operational and cultural integration of Sikorsky, a global leader in helicopters. Ms. Martin led Lockheed Martin's largest defense program, the F-35 Lightning II Program, where she was Executive Vice President & General Manager with full P&L responsibility for a program with over $8bn in annual revenue and 9,000 employees. Before this, she was Vice President of the C-130 & C-5 Programs where she led 3,000 employees for a $2bn aircraft mobility portfolio. Ms. Martin currently serves on the Board of Directors for Kennametal (NYSE: KMT), a global materials science firm with a market capitalization of ~US$3b that serves customers across aerospace, energy, engineering and transportation. Beverly Wyse has over 30 years of senior leadership in the aerospace industry with Boeing (News - Alert) , the world's largest aerospace company. Ms. Wyse was the President of Shared Services, a +7,000-person, multi-billion dollar operating group that provides internal services across Boeing's global enterprises in more than 65 countries. Previously, Ms. Wyse was the Vice President & General Manager of Boeing South Carolina, a major engineering design, manufacturing, assembly, and delivery site for Boeing that included the 787 Dreamliner Aft-body and Mid-body operations, 787 final assembly, delivery and test operations. Ms. Wyse was Vice President and General Manager of the 737 Program, from 2010 to 2015, successfully leading the design, development, certification, production and delivery for Boeing's largest commercial program. Before this, Ms. Wyse was the Vice President & General Manager of the 767 Program. Ms. Wyse is currently the Lead Director of Heroux-Devtek Inc. (TSX: HRX), an international company specializing in the design, development, manufacture, integration, testing and repair, and overhaul of landing gear, actuation systems and components for the aerospace market. Melissa Waller has over 30 years' experience as a senior finance executive and is President for the AIF Institute, providing essential education, research and resources to investors and investment firms globally with over $50 trillion assets under management. Ms. Waller is the former Deputy Treasurer and Chief of Staff for the North Carolina Department of State Treasury, where she successfully oversaw Department strategic planning, operations, and public-policy implementation, along with a staff of more than 400 employees, including the North Carolina Retirement Systems, the pension fund for the state and the tenth largest public pension fund in the United States, with assets in excess of $90 billion. Ms. Waller has served as Chair of the Department's Corporate Governance Committee, as well as on the Council of Institutional Investors Board of Directors and the Governor's Board of Innovation for the North Carolina University System. She currently serves as Executive Program Director for the National Institute of Public Finance, as well as Director of Public and Private Partnerships for the Kenan Institute. Todd Hannigan, Executive Chairman of Hyperion Metals said: "We are honored to welcome Lorraine, Beverly and Melissa to the Board of Hyperion Metals. They have all achieved exceptional results in their chosen careers and we look foward to benefiting from their diverse skills, leadership and operational experience, networks and insights.



The largest consumer of titanium metal and alloys are the aerospace and defense sectors - Lorraine and Beverly's deep experience in these advanced sectors will be invaluable to our board and management team. Melissa has already made a highly valuable impact on our ESG strategy as a board advisor and will now guide our efforts to set an industry leading benchmark in this critical area.

Hyperion's mission is to produce zero carbon, low-cost titanium metal and metal powders with a sustainable All-American supply chain. Low-cost and zero carbon titanium has the potential to transform the EV, aerospace, defense and space exploration sectors. We continue to build an incredible team to pursue this compelling opportunity. We look forward to working with our new directors to build an outstanding, enduring company." Lorraine Martin Lorraine Martin is President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Safety Council, a nonprofit with a century-long legacy of eliminating preventable deaths and injuries from the workplace to anyplace. Throughout her 35 years of experience in aerospace, including leading and developing global and international businesses as an executive at Lockheed Martin, Lorraine has been focused on showing up for safety and supporting employees to reach their full potential. Before joining the National Safety Council, Lorraine Martin spent 30 years at Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), rising to the position of Executive Vice President and Division Deputy of Rotary and Mission Systems. During her time at Lockheed Martin, she led global aircraft and complex system development and manufacturing, always with a focus on the safety of employees and those who used the products, often in high consequence environments. Among her top achievements, Ms. Martin led the largest defense program for the F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter aircraft from 2013 to 2016. She also spearheaded the successful operational and cultural integration of Sikorsky, a global leader in helicopters. Ms. Martin is the Co-Founder and President of the Pegasus Springs Education Collective, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing opportunities for educators, students and community members to collaborate on learning models. She is an enthusiastic advocate for school, community, and national resource engagement. As a proud champion for advancing women and girls in STEM, Ms. Martin was named among STEMConnector's 100 Corporate Women Leaders. She has worked with numerous organizations in support of this mission, including Girls Inc., Girls Who Code and Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence. In addition, she has served on the board of directors for INROADS and Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Orlando. Ms. Martin currently serves on the board of directors and Audit Committee for Kennametal, a $2 billion global materials science firm that serves customers across aerospace, earthworks, energy, general engineering and transportation. Ms. Martin is honored to have served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force, where she held various leadership positions for software-intensive technology and development programs. Ms. Martin has a Master of Science in computer science from Boston University and a BA in computational mathematics from DePauw University. Beverly Wyse Beverly Wyse has over 30 years of leadership experience, primarily in the aerospace industry. Now retired from Boeing (NYSE: BA), the world's largest aerospace company, she held a variety of roles including Vice President and General Manager of the 767 and 737 programs. At Boeing, during her distinguished career, Ms. Wyse served as President of Shared Services, a +7,000-person, multi-billion dollar operating group that provides common internal services across Boeing's global enterprise. Before leading Shared Services, from 2015 to 2016, Ms. Wyse was Vice President and General Manager of Boeing South Carolina. In that position, she was responsible for all of Boeing's operations and facilities in North Charleston. This included 787 Aft-body and Mid-body operations, 787 Final Assembly and Delivery operations, as well as an Engineering Design Center and IT centers. Previously, Ms. Wyse was Vice President and General Manager of the 737 program, from 2010 to 2015, leading the design, development, certification, production and delivery of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family and 737 production integration. She was also responsible for maintaining customer relationships and for the safety and security of employees at the 737 production site, site operations, property and equipment in Renton, Wash., and at the Customer Delivery Center at Boeing Field in Seattle, Wash. She was also responsible for Renton site operations, property and equipment. Prior to her role leading the 737 program, Ms. Wyse was Vice President and General Manager of the 767 program for more than three years, responsible for all aspects of the 767 program as well as the Boeing Commercial Airplanes role in the competition for the U.S. Air Force KC-X tanker program. Ms. Wyse joined Boeing in 1985 and held a number of increasingly responsible positions including Director of Strategy and Business Development for Connexion by Boeing, the company's former inflight internet connectivity service, and as Director of Program Management for the 757 program. In addition to her role on the Olin College of Engineering Board of Trustees, Ms. Wyse is on the board of directors of Heroux-Devtek Inc., an international company specializing in the design, development, manufacture, integration, testing and repair, and overhaul of landing gear, actuation systems and components for the aerospace market. Ms. Wyse is also a strategic advisor in the aerospace sector to Arcadis, a multi-billion-dollar infrastructure company. Ms. Wyse has a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Masters in Business Administration, from the University of Washington in Seattle. Melissa Waller Melissa Waller serves as President of the AIF Institute, and is the former Deputy Treasurer and Chief of Staff for the North Carolina Department of State Treasury, where she successfully oversaw Department strategic planning, operations, and public-policy implementation, along with a staff of more than 400 employees, including the North Carolina Retirement Systems, the pension fund for the state, is the tenth largest public pension fund in the United States, with assets in excess of $90 billion. Ms. Waller has 30 years' experience as a trusted and innovative board director, leader, executive, and institutional investor with extensive board service experience who brings $100Bn+ fund management experience, governance, crisis and risk management, and global M&A expertise to board service. Recognized globally for organization transformation expertise and capable of handling multi-billion-dollar transactions and funds in highly regulated industries, Ms. Waller has a focus on corporate governance and stakeholder communication and is recognized as an ESG & Sustainability Integration Champion. Ms. Waller's background includes over 20 years of private and public-sector financial industry experience, including 15 years in the banking sector with Wachovia/ Wells Fargo (News - Alert) . She has served as Chair of the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer's Corporate Governance Committee, as well as on the Council of Institutional Investors Board of Directors and the Governor's Board of Innovation for the North Carolina University System. She currently serves as Executive Program Director for the National Institute of Public Finance, as well as Director of Public and Private Partnerships for the Kenan Institute. Ms. Waller has a Bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005410/en/

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[September 09, 2021] IBM Watson Launches New AI and Automation Features to Help Businesses Transform Customer Service

ARMONK, N.Y., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced the launch of new AI and automation capabilities in IBM Watson Assistant designed to make it easier for businesses to create enhanced customer service experiences across any channel  phone, web, SMS and any messaging platform. This includes a new collaboration with IntelePeer, a leading Communications Platform-as-a-Service provider, to set up and test a voice agent, and a new agent app designed to enable a seamless hand-off to a live agent while maintaining the conversation's context. Virtual assistants are gaining popularity due to ongoing improvements in natural language processing (NLP) and automation. According to IBM's 2021 Global AI Adoption Index1, 52 percent of global IT professionals surveyed report that their company is using or considering NLP solutions to improve customer experiences. IBM is adding new features in Watson Assistant, the company's intelligent virtual agent, to help businesses leverage AI and NLP to address customer issues on first contact. Watson Assistant is designed to more quickly provide customers with relevant answers over the phone, SMS, web, or any messaging platform, and seamlessly hand-off to a live agent when additional support is needed. The new features include: Add voice capabilities to Watson Assistant: The IntelePeer Atmosphere Communications Platform-as-a-Service is now available as an add-on in Watson Assistant so that sers with a Plus and Enterprise plan can set up voice capabilities and a new phone number for a virtual agent quickly. If businesses already have an existing contact center phone system, IntelePeer can also provide the connection between Watson Assistant and the existing phone system using industry standards. Using IntelePeer, Watson Assistant is now designed to connect to nearly every major contact center platform that uses the SIP protocol in as little as half an hour with no coding.

The IntelePeer Atmosphere Communications Platform-as-a-Service is now available as an add-on in Watson Assistant so that sers with a Plus and Enterprise plan can set up voice capabilities and a new phone number for a virtual agent quickly. If businesses already have an existing contact center phone system, IntelePeer can also provide the connection between Watson Assistant and the existing phone system using industry standards. Using IntelePeer, Watson Assistant is now designed to connect to nearly every major contact center platform that uses the SIP protocol in as little as half an hour with no coding. Help customers resolve issues on first contact with Watson Assistant Search Skill: Watson Assistant's Search Skill feature now includes short-answer retrieval, which is based on an innovative question-answering (QA) system from IBM Research. This enables the virtual agent to return an answer  in a few words  from longer sentences or passages and provide the context on where the answer came from. FAQ extraction is also now generally available in Search Skill. FAQ extraction is designed to help administrators keep the virtual agent up to date with broader sources of information, without having to constantly make manual updates.

Watson Assistant's Search Skill feature now includes short-answer retrieval, which is based on an innovative question-answering (QA) system from IBM Research. This enables the virtual agent to return an answer  in a few words  from longer sentences or passages and provide the context on where the answer came from. FAQ extraction is also now generally available in Search Skill. FAQ extraction is designed to help administrators keep the virtual agent up to date with broader sources of information, without having to constantly make manual updates. Facilitate a seamless hand-off with the new agent app: Watson Assistant's new agent app feature is designed to help customer service agents pick up with a customer right where the virtual agent left off. When a customer calls in, IBM's speech detection models, which are designed to provide more accurate transcriptions out-of-the-box, deliver a near real-time transcription of the conversation. When the hand-off occurs, the new agent app provides the customer service agent with the latest transcript right on their screen. This means customers don't have to repeat their questions and agents are empowered to resolve issues even more quickly.



Daniel Hernandez , General Manager of Data and AI, IBM. "We're continuously delivering new innovations in natural language processing, automation and advancing responsible AI, and building a strong, open ecosystem with partners like IntelePeer to help businesses transform customer care with Watson Assistant." State of Rhode Island Adopted IBM Watson Assistant to Transform its Contact Center

In addition to the new features announced today, IBM also announced that organizations of all sizes have turned to Watson Assistant to help them address customer problems in the face of rising call volumes.

For example, when new COVID-19 cases began to surge last year, the State of Rhode Island realized fielding hundreds of thousands of calls from concerned residents was unsustainable. The State needed to improve its engagement with residents with more efficient processes and timely updates to rapidly changing COVID information. To address untenable workloads, the State turned to Watson Assistant to address the engagement processes with residents and to improve the support with the contact center. IBM Global Business Services (GBS) and the State of Rhode Island launched a virtual agent, "RHODA," that uses Watson Assistant to answer questions about COVID-19 in both English and Spanish. Since October 2020, RHODA has had more than 100,000 conversations on topics related to test scheduling, test results, travel restrictions, and vaccine eligibility. In addition, IBM GBS integrated Watson Assistant into the IVR for Vaccine Appointment Scheduling to help enable an improved experience for individuals that needed assistance with appointment scheduling. "The pandemic slammed my team at the State of Rhode Island Department of Health and we quickly realized that our outdated systems and smaller call centers were completely unequipped to handle the influx of phone calls from concerned citizens, forcing us to pull staff from all directions within the department," said Kristine Campagna, COO of COVID Operations, Rhode Island Department of Health. "With IBM's wealth of experience in AI, we were able to work together to seamlessly integrate Watson Assistant into our call centers, helping us provide thousands of citizens in a matter of days with information about COVID-19." Learn more about Watson Assistant and the new features announced today, by reading the IBM Watson blog, IntelePeer blog, or visiting: https://www.ibm.com/cloud/watson-assistant 1 Morning Consult on behalf of IBM: "Global AI Adoption Index 2021" (May 2021) Media Contact:

Sarah Murphy

IBM Media Relations

srmurphy@us.ibm.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ibm-watson-launches-new-ai-and-automation-features-to-help-businesses-transform-customer-service-301372091.html SOURCE IBM

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[September 09, 2021] ISW Holdings to Present at the H.C. Wainwright 23rd Annual Global Investment Conference

LAS VEGAS, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via InvestorWire -- ISW Holdings, Inc. (OTC: ISWH) (ISW Holdings or the Company, transitioning to BlockQuarry, pending name change), a Nevada-based portfolio company with primary commercial-stage operations in Cryptocurrency Mining, is pleased to announce that it will be featured as a presenting company at the H.C. Wainwright 23rd Annual Global Investment Conference, which is being held virtually from September 13  15, 2021. The companys presentation may be accessed online starting at 7:00 am ET on September 13 using the link provided below. ISW Holdings President and Chairman, Alonzo Pierce, will be present to discuss the Companys vision as an emerging force in the cryptocurrency space, and how it plans to continue to drive growth through a combination of pod-based mining and hosting services across multiple scalable sites. Robert Colazzo, CEO of ISWs partner, Bit5ive LLC, North Americas largest provider of collective management services and mining equipment, will also be present to discuss the plans the partners are beginning to implement in the Southeastern US, including the path to fully launching their POD-CITY vision, involving 200 MW of power and 56,000 state-of-the-art miners. Arnaldo Detres, advisor to ISW Holdings and Chief Innovation Officer at Bit5ive, will also discuss POD-CITY, the Companys progress in Pennsylvania, and broad views on the cryptocurrency marketplace. If interested, please listen to the Companys presentation, or book a one-on-one conversation by registering for the conference at the following link: www.hcwevents.com . About ISW/BlockQuarry IS/BlockQuarry Corp is quickly becoming one of the largest Mining and Hosting providers in the digital currency space in North America, as we seek to transform the financial markets of the future. Our complement of cutting-edge technologies has enhanced the Bitcoin/Cryptocurrency ecosystem, enabling our customers to take advantage of real-time cost savings. At the same time, our customers can feel confident that their digital transactions and assets are entirely secure. Our company utilizes a scalable blockchain infrastructure to convert unique identifiable assets (UIAs) into interchangeable digital assets such as Bitcoin and other fungible digital assets. We offer immediate liquidity in the form of fast, confidential transactions, as well as the issuance of assets in the traditional capital markets.







Forward Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology including "could", "may", "will", "should", "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "predict", "potential" and the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. While these forward-looking statements, and any assumptions upon which they are based, are made in good faith and reflect our current judgment regarding the direction of our business, actual results will almost always vary, sometimes materially, from any estimates, predictions, projections, assumptions or other future performance suggested in this report. Except as required by applicable law, we do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements so as to conform these statements to actual results. Investors should refer to the risks disclosed in the Company's reports filed from time to time with OTC Markets ( www.otcmarkets.com ). Company Contact:

info@ISWHoldings.com

Public Relations

EDM Media, LLC

https://edm.media

Corporate Communications

IBN (InvestorBrandNetwork)

Los Angeles, California

www.InvestorBrandNetwork.com

310.299.1717 Office

Editor@InvestorBrandNetwork.com



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[September 09, 2021] Logiq Launches Exclusive Mobile Payment Services for Required Driver License Testing Across Indonesia

NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Logiq, Inc. (NEO: LGIQ) (OTCQX: LGIQ), a global provider of award-winning e-commerce and fintech solutions, has launched a new exclusive mobile payment option for driver license psychological testing in Indonesia. The tests are mandatory for millions of Indonesians looking to obtain or renew their license.

The launch follows Logiqs announcement at the end of June that it partnered with Mentalku, the exclusive government-licensed provider of these tests that are mandated by regulatory statute. Mentalku administered about 17 million such tests last year. As part of an initial pilot program for the new mobile payment services, Logiq has integrated its mobile payment solution, AtozPay , into the Mentalku mobile app. AtozPay is also now initially available on payment terminals located in Mentalku testing centers across East Java. The Mentalku app also offers telemedicine services, digital testing and virtual counselling that can be paid for using the newly integrated AtozPay eWallet payment gateway. This launch represents the first time electronic payments can be made within Mentalkus mobile app or at their testing center terminals, stated Logiq president, Brent Suen. Following the initial pilot program, we plan to expand the payment services to Mentalku testing facilities throughout Indonesia beginning in 2022. The full roll out will include additional commercial features and services, such as mobile airtime and data top-up, e-money, general payments, and deliveries. The CEO of Mentalku, Dr. Mohsein Saleh Badegel, added: Our strategic partnership with Logiq also allows Mentalku to expand its services online to include payments and delivery of pharmaceuticals. We see Logiq as a strong value-add partner who supports our aspirations to become the next Goto or Decacorn." Logiqs digital wallet technology enables users to perform multiple financial transactions quickly and securely, including money transfers, receiving and repaying loans, accessing insurance, buying airtime or data, and paying bills or merchantsall conveniently on their mobile phone, anytime, anywhere. To learn more about Logiqs mobile payment services, go to Loqiq.com . About Logiq Logiq, Inc. is a U.S.-based leading global provider of e-commerce ad fintech business enablement solutions. Its DataLogiq business provides a data-driven, end-to-end e-commerce marketing solution. Its AI-powered LogiqX data engine delivers valuable consumer insights that enhance the ROI of online marketing spend. The companys Fixel technology offers simplified online marketing with critical privacy features.



In its AppLogiq business, Logiqs platform-as-a-service, branded as CreateApp , enables small- and medium-sized businesses worldwide to easily create and deploy a native mobile app for their business without technical knowledge or background. CreateApp empowers businesses to reach more customers, increase sales, manage logistics, and promote their products and services in an easy, affordable, and highly efficient way. CreateApp is offered in 14 languages across 10 countries and three continents, including some of the fastest-growing emerging markets in Southeast Asia. The companys PayLogiq, branded as AtozPay in Indonesia, offers mobile payments, and GoLogiq, branded as AtozGo in Indonesia, offers hyper-local food delivery services. Connect with Logiq: Website | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook . Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information, as defined within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and is subject to the Safe Harbor created by those sections. This press release also contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation that relate to Logiqs current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this press release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this press release. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond Logiqs control, which could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. In particular and without limitation, this press release contains forward-looking statements regarding our products and services, the use and/or ongoing demand for our products and services, expectations regarding our revenue and the revenue generation potential of our products and services, our partnerships and strategic alliances, the impact of global pandemics (including COVID-19) on the demand for our products and services, industry trends, overall market growth rates, our growth strategies, the continued growth of the addressable markets for our products and solutions, our business plans and strategies, our competitive position in our industry, and other risks described in the Companys prior press releases and in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) including its Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent public filings, and filings made pursuant to Canadian securities legislation that are available on www.sedar.com, including under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Canadian Prospectus. Logiq undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for Logiq to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Company Contact Brent Suen, President

Logiq, Inc.

Email contact Media & Investor Contact

Ronald Both or Justin Lumley

CMA Investor & Media Relations

Tel (949) 432-7566

Email contact



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[September 09, 2021] Movable Ink Announces New Hires in Australia Amid Rapid Growth Period

NEW YORK, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Movable Ink , the leading software company powering personalized content for the world's largest brands, announced today strategic new hires to aid in the company's expansion across Australia, including Andrew McGhie as Client Experience Manager and Daniel Daly and Esti Frischling as Strategic Account Directors. Andrew McGhie is an experienced marketing technology leader with nearly 20 years of experience in large, customer-centric organisations. In his new role as Client Experience Manager APAC at Movable Ink, his responsibilities will include the ownership and strengthening of positive client relationships, with a focus on program growth and strategic thought leadership, in addition to overseeing day-to-day processes, relationships, and tactical execution for some of the largest and most well-known brands in Australia. Andrew joins Movable Ink from News Corp Australia where he led Marketing Operations and Capability functions. Joining as a new Strategic Account Director is Dan Daly, where he will be working with brands to help create hyper-personalized experiences for their customers, through Movable Ink's world-leading personalisation platform. Dan brins more than 20 years of experience to the role, having previously led organisations of all sizes through periods of growth and transformation. He previously served as Sales Lead at Liferay where he was responsible for driving new business growth and in helping to take Liferay throughout Australia and New Zealand to the next level.



Esti Frischling, also joining as a Strategic Account Director, is an experienced SaaS and marketing and technology leader with a background in strategy and customer success. Esti joins Movable Ink from NewsCred, the leading marketing orchestration software based out of the United States. As the regional manager for APAC, she launched the product locally, bringing onboard brands like Fujitsu, Ansell, and Metlife. Before NewsCred, Esti held roles at content recommendation company Outbrain in Sydney and New York where she built out their agency training function globally and enabled brands like Qantas, Kmart, and Australia Post. "Expanding in international markets has been a key goal of Movable Ink since I co-founded the company in 2010. To see not only the success we've had in Australia and New Zealand, but also the incredible talent who continue to join our all-star team, is incredibly thrilling," said Vivek Sharma, CEO & co-founder of Movable Ink. "This year alone, we've expanded into new international markets and partnered with over 100 additional category-leading brands across the globe. Coupled with the world-class talent we are bringing on board, we look forward to continuing to solve personalisation challenges for leading brands around the globe in H2 and beyond."

With these new hires, Movable Ink is poised to level up its presence throughout the region and drive an increased value for customers. For more information about Movable Ink, please visit: www.movableink.com . About Movable Ink

Customers don't experience data, they experience content. Movable Ink activates any data into personalised content in any customer engagement. More than 700 of the world's most innovative brands rely on Movable Ink to accelerate their marketing performance. With more than 400 employees, the company is headquartered in New York City with operations throughout North America, Central America, Europe, Australia, and Japan. Learn more at movableink.com . View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/movable-ink-announces-new-hires-in-australia-amid-rapid-growth-period-301371677.html SOURCE Movable Ink

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[September 09, 2021] National Homebuilder Century Complete Officially Enters Kentucky Market

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc., a top 10 national homebuilder, announced its Century Complete brand is expanding to the sought-after Louisville Metro area, with three new communities in Louisville, KY. and Austin, IN. With operations in 17 states and more than 40 markets under two brandsCentury Communities and Century Completethis marks the organization's first communities in Kentucky. A pioneer in online and affordable homebuying, Century Complete boasts a streamlined and modernized "Buy Now" process that makes it easy for buyers to quickly purchase a quality new home online. Communities within the Louisville Metro area will offer single-family homes, with contemporary open-concept layouts and included features like granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances and main-level vinyl flooring throughout. New home pricing will range from the high $100s to the low $300s. Learn more and stay up to date on community Grand Openings at www.CenturyCommunities.com. "We're very excited to bring Century Complete to the Louisville area, a growing market where our beautiful yet attainable new homesand innovative online purchase processwill give aspiring new homeowners great options to choose from," said Greg Huff, president of Century Complete. "It's a great time for prospective buyers to join our interest lists on the website and get in on the ground floor." NOW SELLING:

Tanyard Springs | Louisville, KY.





From the high $200s Single-family homes (25 homesites)

Single- and two-story floor plans

4 to 5 bed, 2 to 2.5 bath, 2-bay garage, up to 2,653 square feet Shady Brook Lane and Spring Lake Lane, Louisville, KY 40229

Buy your new home online today!



COMING SOON:



Look for future releases from the following Louisville Metro communities in fall 2021: Bowles Circle | Austin, Ind.

From the high $100s Single-family homes (11 homesites)

Single-story floor plans

3 bed, 2 bath, 1- to 2-bay garage, up to 1,429 square feet Bowles Circle and W Booe Road, Austin, IN 47102 Meadowbrook | Austin, Ind.

From the high $100s Single-family homes (11 homesites)

Single-story floor plans

3 to 4 bed, 2 bath, 2-bay garage, up to 1,601 square feet Audrey Lane and W. Kent Sr 256, Austin, IN 47102 Even more communities anticipated! Stay up to date at www.CenturyCommunities.com. IN-PERSON SALES STUDIOS

Our industry-leading online homebuying process allows homebuyers to buy on their terms24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. However, if you'd like friendly in-person assistance with purchasing a new home, please visit one of our Sales Studios! We look forward to greeting you at our new Louisville Sales Studio in fall 2021, but until then you can find us at our Indianapolis studio. Indianapolis Studio

6330 East 75th Street, Suite 178

Indianapolis, IN 46250

Phone: 317.207.7195 Louisville Studio  Opening fall 2021!

61 Quartermaster Court

Jeffersonville, IN 47130 About Century Communities

Century Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS) is a top 10 national homebuilder. Offering new homes under the Century Communities and Century Complete brands, Century is engaged in all aspects of homebuilding  including the acquisition, entitlement and development of land, along with the construction, innovative marketing and sale of quality homes designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. The Colorado-based company operates in 17 states and 40 markets across the U.S., and also offers title, insurance and lending services in select markets through its Parkway Title, IHL Home Insurance Agency, and Inspire Home Loan subsidiaries. To learn more about Century Communities, please visit www.centurycommunities.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/national-homebuilder-century-complete-officially-enters-kentucky-market-301372104.html SOURCE Century Communities, Inc.

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[September 09, 2021] New Cybersecurity Report from HP Reveals 91% of IT Teams Feel Pressure to Compromise Security

PALO ALTO, Calif., Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) today released its HP Wolf Security Rebellions & Rejections report, a comprehensive global study highlighting the tension between IT teams and employees working from home (WFH) that security leaders must resolve in order to secure the future of work. The findings show that IT teams have been forced into compromising security for business continuity at a time of rising threats. Making matters worse, their attempts to increase or update security measures for remote workers have often been rejected. This is particularly true for the future workforce of 18-24-year-olds  digital natives who feel increasingly frustrated with security getting in the way of deadlines, leading many to circumvent controls. The new HP Wolf Security report combines data from a global YouGov online survey of 8,443 office workers who shifted to WFH during the pandemic and a global survey of 1,100 IT Decision Makers, conducted by Toluna. Key findings include: 76% of IT teams admit security took a backseat to business continuity during the pandemic, while 91% felt pressure to compromise security for business continuity 1 .

. Almost half (48%) of younger office workers (18-24 years old) surveyed viewed security tools as a hindrance, leading to nearly a third (31%) trying to bypass corporate security policies to get their work done 2 .

. 48% of office workers surveyed agreed that seemingly essential security measures result in a lot of wasted time  this rises to 64% among those ages 18-24 2 .

. Over half (54%) of 1824-year-olds were more worried about meeting deadlines than exposing their organization to a data breach; 39% were unsure what their security policies say, or are unaware if their company even has them  suggesting a growing level of apathy among younger workers 2 .

. As a result, 83% of IT teams believe the increase in home workers has created a ticking time bomb for a corporate network breach1.

The fact that workers are actively circumventing security should be a worry for any CISO  this is how breaches can be born, comments Ian Pratt, Global Head of Security for Personal Systems, HP Inc. If security is too cumbersome and weighs people down, then people will find a way around it. Instead, security should fit as much as possible into existing working patterns and flows, with technology that is unobtrusive, secure-by-design and user-intuitive. Ultimately, we need to make it as easy to work securely as it is to work insecurely, and we can do this by building security into systems from the ground up. The report highlights that many security teams have made efforts to curb user behavior to keep data safe. 91% have updated security policies to account for the rise in working from home, while 78% have restricted access to websites and applications1. However, these controls often create friction for users, who resent the controls and push back on IT, leaving security teams feeling dejected and rejected: 37% of office workers surveyed said security policies and technologie are often too restrictive 2 .

. 80% of IT teams experienced push back from users who do not like controls being put on them at home; 67% of IT teams said they experience complaints about this weekly 1 .

. 83% of IT teams said trying to set and enforce corporate policies around cybersecurity is impossible now the lines between personal and professional lives are so blurred 1 .

. 80% of IT teams said IT security was becoming a thankless task because nobody listens to them 1 .

. 69% of IT teams said they are made to feel like the bad guys for imposing restrictions1.





CISOs are dealing with increasing volume, velocity and severity of attacks, comments Joanna Burkey, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), HP Inc. Their teams are having to work around the clock to keep the business safe, while facilitating mass digital transformation with reduced visibility. Cybersecurity teams should no longer be burdened with the weight of securing the business solely on their shoulders, cybersecurity is an end-to-end discipline in which everyone needs to engage. Burkey continues: To create a more collaborative security culture, we must engage and educate employees on the growing cybersecurity risks, while IT teams need to better understand how security impacts workflows and productivity. From here, security needs to be re-evaluated based on the needs of both the business and the hybrid worker.

HP is helping organizations to secure the hybrid workplace by delivering transparent and unobtrusive endpoint security. With HP Wolf Security1 organizations benefit from robust, built-in protection from the silicon to the cloud, and BIOS to browser. It enables Cybersecurity teams to deliver user-friendly tools and help to ease restrictions, while also providing defense-in-depth and enhanced protection, privacy, and threat intelligence, gathering data at the endpoint to help protect the business at large. About the research The HP Wolf Security Rebellions & Rejections report is based on findings from: A Toluna survey of 1,100 IT decision makers in the UK, the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Australia, and Japan. Fieldwork was undertaken between 19th March - 6th April 2021. The survey was carried out online. A YouGov survey of 8,443 adults in the US, the UK, Mexico, Germany, Australia, Canada, and Japan who used to be office workers, and worked from home the same amount or more than before the pandemic. Fieldwork was undertaken between 17th - 25th March 2021. The survey was carried out online. The 2020 Cybersecurity Threat Landscape for Remote Workers as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic report from KuppingerCole, conducted in March 2021. This provides context and analysis of the changing work landscape in 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic with attention to the activities and practices of companies and employees globally, as well as the activities and tendencies of malicious actors to vulnerabilities that arose because of the changing context.

About HP HP Inc. creates technology that makes life better for everyone, everywhere. Through our product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers and 3D printing solutions, we engineer experiences that amaze. More information about HP Inc. is available at http://www.hp.com. About HP Wolf Security From the maker of the worlds most secure PCs2 and Printers3, HP Wolf Security is a new breed of endpoint security. HPs portfolio of hardware-enforced security and endpoint-focused security services are designed to help organizations safeguard PCs, printers and people from circling cyber predators. HP Wolf Security provides comprehensive endpoint protection and resiliency that starts at the hardware level and extends across software and services. Copyright 2021 HP Development Company, L.P. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. The only warranties for HP products and services are set forth in the express warranty statements accompanying such products and services. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional warranty. HP shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions contained herein. 1 HP Security is now HP Wolf Security. Security features vary by platform.

2 Based on HPs unique and comprehensive security capabilities at no additional cost among vendors on HP Elite PCs with Windows and 8th Gen and higher Intel processors or AMD Ryzen 4000 processors and higher; HP ProDesk 600 G6 with Intel 10th Gen and higher processors; and HP ProBook 600 with AMD Ryzen 4000 or Intel 11th Gen processors and higher.

3 HPs most advanced embedded security features are available on HP Enterprise and HP Managed devices with HP FutureSmart firmware 4.5 or above. Claim based on HP review of 2021 published features of competitive in-class printers. Only HP offers a combination of security features to automatically detect, stop, and recover from attacks with a self-healing reboot, in alignment with NIST SP 800-193 guidelines for device cyber resiliency. For a list of compatible products, visit: hp.com/go/PrintersThatProtect . For more information, visit: hp.com/go/PrinterSecurityClaims . Media Contact: Vanessa Godsal

Vgodsal@hp.com



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[September 09, 2021] QuisLex Introduces New Law Student Intern Program

NEW YORK, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- QuisLex, a leading alternative legal services provider long recognized as a pioneer in the industry, announces the launch of a new internship program in partnership with respected HBCU Southern University Law Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As part of the program, QuisLex will educate and train law students, providing them with a well-rounded understanding of the work done by ALSPs and how the services they provide fit within the legal industry ecosystem. Armed with that knowledge, interns will be assigned to work with an established QuisLex client to gain hands-on experience in the delivery of legal services.

Stacie Dukes is the programs first intern and began her internship with QuisLex on August 23, 2021. She is currently a candidate for a Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center, a public law school that offers full-time, part-time and evening programs and is part of the historically black Southern University system. Prior to starting law school, Dukes worked for more than 10 years as a mental health counselor, providing community-based mental health counseling services to adults, children and families throughout the Metro Atlanta area. She also worked for the city of Atlanta, providing counseling services to individuals under the supervision of the City of Atlanta Department of Corrections, and has worked as a flight attendant for 20 years. In addition to her numerous academic achievements, Dukes has a passion for service to the community which she feeds with several volunteer roles. With this internshipprogram, our objective is to provide exceptional students like Ms. Dukes with the professional experience of working for an alternative legal services provider, helping them to recognize some of the nontraditional ways they may be able to apply their law degree, says Ram Vasudevan, CEO of QuisLex. Were thrilled to be partnering with Southern University and look forward to expanding the program to multiple interns beginning next semester.



Dukes is working with QuisLex client NetApp, with the support and encouragement of general counsel Beth OCallahan and legal industry pioneer Connie Brenton. The founder and former CEO of the Corporate Legal Operations Consortium, Brenton currently serves as vice president for law, technology and operations at NetApp, Inc. where she continues to champion innovation and transformation at the intersection of business and law. QuisLex was recently part of a collaborative team assembled by NetApp and overseen by Brenton to reduce the time required to process contract approvals. The collaborative effort was recognized earlier this year by the Association of Corporate Counsel when NetApp, QuisLex and the rest of the team were named among the 2021 ACC Value Champions. Digital transformation is an important focus of the modern law department, but being innovative isnt just about finding use cases for modern technology; its also about people and how were applying knowledge and skill sets in new and creative ways, shares Brenton. I am excited to be working with QuisLex in support of its new internship program to help expand the expectations and perspectives that new lawyers have about where and how they practice law.

About QuisLex

QuisLex is an award-winning legal services provider that specializes in managed document review, contract management, compliance services, legal spend management and legal operations consulting. Our full-time highly trained attorneys, process experts, legal technologists, statisticians and linguists work closely with our clients to reduce cost, mitigate risk and maximize efficiency. QuisLex is regularly acknowledged as a leader in the legal services industry and proud to be recognized by the Association of Corporate Counsel as an ACC Value Champion, Chambers and Partners as a Band 1 Alternative Legal Service Provider, the New York Law Journal as a Top Managed Document Review Services Provider and the IACCM as its Outstanding Service Provider for contract management solutions. QuisLex is nationally certified by the New York & New Jersey Minority Supplier Development Council as a minority business enterprise (MBE). To learn more, visit www.quislex.com. Media Contact

Vicki LaBrosse

Edge Marketing for QuisLex

vlabrosse@edgemarketinginc.com

651.552.7753



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[September 09, 2021] REFIRE Shows its Vision for Zero-Emission Fuel Cell Mobility with Heavy-Duty PRISMA XII+ at IAA Mobility 2021

MUNICH, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the context of the current global response to climate disruption, hydrogen technologies are crucial to achieving a carbon-neutral future, particularly within the mobility sector. At IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, Shanghai REFIRE Technology Co., Ltd. (REFIRE), as a leading global provider of hydrogen fuel cell technologies, presents its new cutting-edge hydrogen fuel cell system PRISMA XII+ that incorporates the company's latest technological advancements, providing heavy-duty trucks with greater power and efficiency. The European debut of REFIRE's PRISMA XII+ is supported by Germany's eCap Mobility, a strategic partner for the European market. The two companies have been cooperating since late 2019 to develop rapidly deployable and sustainable hydrogen mobility end use cases. Such advantages as a longer range and faster refuelling, combined with a greater load-carrying capacity make fuel cells a uniquely attractive option for heavy-duty trucks, as this sector accelerates a transition towards decarbonisation. The PRISMA XII+ fuel cell system targets the increasing number of performance challenges faced by heavy-duty trucks deployed across a range of different application scenarios. Efficiency upgrades for the system amount to a net 10 per cent improvement over previous models with the balance of plant (BOP) power consumption down by 10 kW. PRISMA XII+ is designed to operate for at least 30,000 hours with less than a 10 per cent degradation in performance  a figure to put it on par with heavy-duty internal combustion engines. Founded in 2015 with the vision of accelerating mass adoption of zero-emission fuel cell mobility and power, REFIRE has delivered more than 3,000 fuel cell system variations to its customers. These have been deployed in over 2,700 operational fuel cell commercial vehicles and other project types in 17 cities across China and in 5 other countries including Germany. In August this year, a converted Mercedes-Benz Citaro bus equipped with a REFIRE PRISMA fuel cell system made its operational debut at the Lower Oder Valley National Park in Germany to provide a zero-emission passenger service throughout the ecologically protected zone. REFIRE also continues to expand its international footprint, both by introducing its products and services into the European market and by reaching global partnerships to accelerate its goal of sustainable mobility and power. Assisted by TUV Nord, recent RDW[1] certification granted to REFIRE's PRISMA fuel cell system and its ASTRAWORKS factory system further paves the way for REFIRE's European market expansion and is key to clustering reputable partners and tailoring products for international markets. You will find REFIRE as a co-exhibitor at GRIP at the IAA Mobility 2021:

Booth B4.B81 About REFIRE Headquartered in Shanghai, China, REFIRE is a leading global provider of hydrogen fuel cell technologies. The company specialises in the design, testing, prototyping, application engineering and production of integrated fuel cell systems for buses, trucks, specialised vehicles, and marine applications. As of mid August 2021 combined vehicle mileage exceeds 75 million kilometres representing a kerbside carbon emission reduction of 39,000 tonnes.







[1] RDW (Rijks Dienst Wegverkeer) is the Vehicle Authority in the Netherlands and authorised on European level to oversee certification for incoming vehicles.

SOURCE REFIRE

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[September 09, 2021] Smartwyre Secures $10.5M Series A to Connect Agricultural Inputs Industry

Smartwyre, a secure digital platform that connects agricultural input manufacturers, distributors, and retailers with the commercial insights they need to price with confidence, announced today it has secured $10.5M in Series A funding. Led by High Alpha Capital, the funding was supported with participation from existing investors Anterra Capital, Fall Line Capital, Revolution's (News - Alert) Rise of the Rest fund and Cavallo Ventures. For the agricultural inputs industry, which accounts for nearly $400 billion in annual purchases by the world's farmers, Smartwyre is the first platform to provide end-to-end insights from cost management to commercial pricing, improving industry profitability and preventing mismatches between production levels and the actual farmer demand. "At Smartwyre, our mission is deeply connected to the agricultural inputs industry and the people in it that we serve. We aim to improve our clients' corporate profitability but also the quality of life for their commercial staff," said Smartwyre Founder and CEO John Brubaker. "We're doing this by offering modern cloud software, built on a digital network that securely connects established trading partners with the commercial information they need to succeed." In 2021, companies delivering more than 35% of the agricultural inputs supplied to US farmers use Smartwyre's platform to manage their product information, pricing or rebate operations. A strategic Smartwyre client, TENKoZ, one of the US market's largest distributors of crop protection products, is digitizing its pricing and rebate management operations using Smartwyre's platform. "Our distributor and retail members drive their commercial operations using some extremely complex busiess and financial incentives," said TENKoZ Vice President Jon Doran, "We're working with Smartwyre and our manufacturer partners to help our members track and manage their business performance throughout the crop cycle. This gives us expanded capability to rapidly shape product offerings for our ultimate customer - the American farmer."



Smartwyre's new funding will allow the company to further support agricultural industry commercial leaders in digitizing their pricing and connecting to their customers. Plans for the funding also include expanding Smartwyre's commercial, product development and engineering teams while adding additional capability to its digital platform and investing in existing customer relationships. "High Alpha Capital is grateful for the opportunity to support Smartwyre's next phase of growth," said High Alpha Partner Kristian Andersen. "We believe that John and the Smartwyre team are uniquely positioned to transform the agricultural inputs industry by bringing more efficiency, transparency and value to the marketplace."

"Our information-age world depends on the world's 600 million farms, and those farmers rely on the efforts of the agricultural supply industry," added Adam Anders, managing partner at Anterra Capital and an early Smartwyre investor. "We're pleased to continue to support Smartwyre's investment in new digital tools for this critical industry to our global food supply." Smartwyre is headquartered in Denver, with additional commercial and engineering teams in North Carolina and London, UK. The company has mid-term plans to launch commercial operations in Europe and Latin America. About Smartwyre Smartwyre, headquartered in Denver, connects the agricultural inputs industry with accurate and up-to-date product, price and rebate program data. By connecting the cost management and commercial pricing activities within an agricultural input retailer, Smartwyre prevents mismatches between production levels and actual farmer demand, shrinking excess inventory and administrative headaches for business leaders. To learn more, visit smartwyre.com. About High Alpha High Alpha, based in Indianapolis, invests in both High Alpha Studio companies and outside entrepreneurs building the next generation of B2B SaaS (News - Alert) companies. The High Alpha portfolio includes leading cloud companies Attentive, SalesLoft, Zylo, Terminus, The Mom Project, Rheaply, LogicGate, MetaCX, Mandolin, project44 and more. For more information, visit highalpha.com or follow on Twitter (News - Alert) @highalpha. For further information or press inquiries, please contact press@smartwyre.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005055/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Softchoice to Support Connected North Program as Managed Service Provider

Softchoice (TSX: SFTC) and TakingITGlobal, a Canadian charity supporting social innovation, facilitating connected learning, and fostering creativity & digital skills, today announced a partnership to provide critical technology support for schools in remote Indigenous communities in Canada's north. Through the partnership, Softchoice (News - Alert) will become the managed services provider for TakingITGlobal's award-winning Connected North program. Founded in 2013, Connected North delivers immersive and interactive education services to remote Indigenous communities through live learning experiences delivered through Cisco's (News - Alert) WebEx technology. Through the use of collaboration technology, Connected North provides youth with opportunities and experiences that would otherwise be unavailable to them. As the managed service partner for Connected North, Softchoice will support educators across TakingITGlobal's network of more than 100 participating schools, serving more than 25,000 students in remote Indigenous communities.



"The Connected North program is a perfect example of using technology to solve a critical social challenge," said Sean Denomey, Senior Vice President, Services, Softchoice. "The partnership combines our technical expertise and commitment to taking care of each other. We are proud to support an incredible organization that is making a real difference for Indigenous students across Canada." "Softchoice's technology mentorship and support ensures that all of the program's technology infrastructure needs are taken care of and our team can focus their attention on serving the needs of educators," said Michael Furdyk, TakingITGlobal's Co-founder and Director of Technology. "It also means that we are able to deploy new technologies that will allow us to scale the program to reach more schools, supporting increased student engagement in Indigenous communities."

Softchoice is committed to mobilizing its resources, expertise and people to create impact in our local communities by helping charities scale operations and impact through skilled volunteering. Learn more about our social impact initiatives here. About Softchoice Softchoice (TSX: SFTC) is a technology services and solutions provider that equips organizations to be agile and innovative, and for their people to be engaged, connected and creative at work. That means moving them to the cloud, helping them build the workplace of tomorrow, and enabling them to make smarter decisions about their technology portfolio. For more information, please visit www.softchoice.com About TakingITGlobal TakingITGlobal (TIG) designs and delivers youth engagement programs leveraging the power of community, technology and creativity. Learn more: https://www.tigweb.org/about/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005587/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Summit Bank Hires Long-Time Industry Expert as Program Advisor to SBA Division

Doug Wolford joins Summit Bank (OTC Pink: SBKO) today as Vice President, SBA Program Advisor for Summit Bank's Small Business Administration Division. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006018/en/ Doug Wolford, Vice President, SBA Program Advisor for Summit Bank's Small Business Administration Division (Photo: Business Wire) Dou has nearly 30 years of SBA experience, previously leading SBA for a well-known regional bank with borrowers in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Montana and Idaho. He is a graduate of Montana State University and has a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Master's of Science degree in Applied Economics.



Doug's role with the Bank will focus on cultivating relationships with current and prospective SBA borrowers. He will also work with clients and colleagues in our Eugene / Springfield, Central Oregon and Portland markets. According to Summit Bank Senior Vice President and SBA Administrator Ashley Horner, "We are thrilled to have Doug join the Summit Bank SBA Division. His depth of experience in the government guarantee loan arena is unmatched and this will provide Summit Bank clients with additional benefit in obtaining SBA 7(a) loans including SBA Express Lines of Credit and USDA loans." He is a long time member of the National Association of Guaranteed Government Lenders (NAGGL) and is a member of the Northwest Business Development Association (NWBDA) Loan Committee.

Summit Bank, with offices in Eugene/Springfield, Central Oregon and the Portland Metropolitan area, specializes in providing high-level service to professionals as well as medium-sized businesses and their owners. Summit was recognized in 2020 as the Top Small Business Administration (SBA) Community Bank Lender in the State of Oregon. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006018/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Swell Energy Launches Home Battery Rewards to Hawaiian Electric Customers on O'ahu, Hawai'i Island, and Maui

Swell Energy Inc. is now enrolling 6,000 O'ahu, Hawai'i Island, and Maui solar and energy storage customers in its Home Battery Rewards program with Hawaiian Electric, offering significant incentives for existing and new energy storage systems powered by rooftop solar. Incentive payments are based on system characteristics and the fixed monthly payment will apply to the customer's monthly electric bill. If the incentive exceeds a customer's minimum bill, participants will receive a check from Hawaiian Electric each month. For example, customers with between 1-3 Tesla Powerwalls can earn between $1,500-$11,700 over the life of the five-year program. There is no limit to the number of batteries a customer can enroll. The program, approved by the Public Utilities Commission, will provide a total of 80 megawatts (MW) of grid services supplied from storage among all participants, which is equivalent to approximately 4,000 residential systems on O'ahu, 1,500 systems on Hawai'i Island and 500 systems on Maui. Enrollment is on a first-come basis on each island and customers start receiving value from the program soon after they enroll. "Existing and new solar-plus-storage customers can now get more value from their home energy system with advanced grid service programs like Home Battery Rewards," said Yoh Kawanami, Director-Customer Energy Resources Operations at Hawaiian Electric. "We are at a turning point in Hawaii for advancing the capabilities of all residential solar and batteries already deployed and being installed in the future. By harnessing the collective power in our homes, we nable a more affordable and resilient Hawaii that also helps us meet our 100% renewable energy goals by 2045 or sooner," he said.



In conjunction with homeowners in the Home Battery Rewards program, Swell Energy aggregates participating batteries to perform grid services such as: storing excess renewable energy for later use

dispatching stored energy when the grid needs it most

providing frequency response measures to mitigate potential imbalances on the grid. In the event of a power outage, home batteries enrolled in the program only provide electricity to the customer's home and the homeowner is in full control of their solar energy and battery. By offering clean, dispatchable and distributed energy resources, Hawaiian Electric expects the Home Battery Rewards program to help the state of Hawaii reach its renewable energy goals and is encouraging customers to apply today.

"Swell's Home Battery Rewards program with Hawaiian Electric unlocks the potential for home batteries to bolster the local grid in Hawaii and bring even more renewable energy onto the islands. The program is available to a broad set of residential customers, including those who already have an eligible battery system, as well as those seeking to install a new system," said Suleman Khan, CEO of Swell Energy. "Swell is launching the first phase of this program in partnership with RevoluSun on O'ahu and Rising Sun Solar on Maui and Hawai'i Island. We look forward to expanding our local network of Home Battery Rewards partners soon in an effort to make this program accessible to as many homes in Hawaii as possible." Customers can opt-out of the Home Battery Rewards program at any time. There is no penalty and customers will not be required to repay any funds received while in the program. To sign up, visit: https://swellenergy.com/hi/. About Swell Energy Inc. Swell Energy is an energy and smart grid solutions provider that is uniting property owners, businesses, industry partners and utilities behind the shared goal of achieving reliable, cost-effective, clean and flexible energy. Swell Energy delivers simple and secure energy solutions and sophisticated grid service programs that are customizable to serve the needs of these diverse stakeholders. Swell Energy provides electricity consumers with financing and educational resources, and installs solar-powered battery systems with its regional partners using top technologies. This approach creates a critical mass of dynamic, clean energy resources for a virtual smart grid that delivers grid-balancing services within utility markets across the United States. Learn more at www.swellenergy.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005169/en/

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[September 09, 2021] World of Wireless International Telecom, Inc. Announces Successful Tests of WOWITEL in the Caribbean

Nexpirion to Provide Disaster Relief Communications Services in Haiti and Other Regions

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- World of Wireless International Telecom, Inc. (OTCMKTS: WWII), an innovative telecommunications provider, today announced that it has successfully tested WOWITEL through Nexpirion in Haiti. On August 14th of this year a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti affecting several major cities, just six years after the previous 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the region. This devastating earthquake is another major setback in a country struggling with political instability, food security, Covid -19 and access to communications services and telehealth. Nexpirion responded to the Haiti crisis by testing the service in the disaster-torn area. According to a top Nexperion representative, the tests were initiated in an effort to provide critical communications services to the underserved. Our tests have been successful in all of the major cities we tested the WOWITEL network and the WOWITEL app which is now ready for market. Our services are meant to be global and perform in some of the direst conditions. We are prepared to work with any international agency or non-profit to assist Haiti or any global disaster relief effort. We applaud Nexpirions efforts to conduct this test in preparation of offering the service to the relief effort ostensibly through various USG and NGO plans says WOWITEL CEO, Gene Curcio. The prevous aid package to Haiti was $13 Billion to assist over one million displaced people in the 2016 earthquake. The World Bank provided over $160 million to communications.



Nexpirion, a well-established telecom provider with over 2.5 million customers globally, has chosen WOWITEL, with its robust proprietary network and secure commerce platform, to exclusively private label our pre-paid service known as Smart Voice, says the CEO of Nexpirion. Smart Voice, called Voz Inteligente in Spanish, will be marketed as a flat-fee dialing plan.

Powered by WOWITEL phone products can save Nexpirions customers a significant amount of money. WEBSITE: www.wowitel.com CONTACT US

Email: g.curcio@wowitel.com

https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/WWII/overview World Of Wireless International Telecom, Inc. (OTC:WWII) is in the wireless communications industry. The Company is focused on: i.) Prepaid Unlimited WiFi Soft Phone Services for voice, text, data and streaming with or without dedicated connection to a "Hot Spot" or WiFi Network. ii.) The development and release of a new app specifically branded for broad market appeal globally. iii.) Once the network operation is fully operational and the proprietary app is released, then the Company may offer white-label services for third-party networks to build their own apps and operate through the Company's network once commercially available. iv.) Municipal Wireless Implementation in the United States. (The Company spent several years developing relationships with municipalities and responded to numerous RFP's from major cities including Los Angeles). The Company has not entered into any municipal WiFi development agreements to date. The Company is classified as a facilities based service provider who plans to enable the services globally using proprietary software, methodologies and security solutions. WWII has been quietly building the infrastructure, the team, and the resources to provide superior quality international phone service at a fraction of the usual cost using the same network and protocol as the telecommunication giants. This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted, or quantified. Future events and actual results could differ materially from those set forth in, contemplated by, or underlying the forward-looking statements.



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[September 08, 2021] Columbia Acorn European Fund Celebrates 10-Year Milestone as Best Fund Among Morningstar Peers

Columbia Threadneedle Investments today announced that the Columbia Acorn European Fund has reached its 10-year anniversary. Since its inception, the fund has outpaced its competition and is ranked as the top-performing fund of the decade in Morningstar's Europe Stock category. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210908006054/en/ Stephen Kusmierczak, CFA, Portfolio Manager, Columbia Acorn European Fund (Photo: Business Wire) Rated 5-stars overall by Morningstar, the Columbia Acorn European Fund (Institutional Class) is designed to target long-term growth by investing in small- and mid-cap European companies with attractive growth potential. The Columbia Acorn European Fund's Institutional 2 share class also earned a 2021 U.S. Lipper Fund Award for 'Best in 5-Year Performance' in the European Region Funds category of 17 funds. With 23 years of investment experience, Stephen Kusmierczak has managed the fund since its inception. Kusmierczak and co-manager Sebastien Pigeon seek out businesses with high returns on capital, and the ability to maintain these above-average returns over long periods. They believe that management quality and tenure, exceptional cultures, and engaged ownership are important factors that lead to durability in high financial returns. "This type of information is often difficult and expensive to acquire but allows long-term investors who are deeply focused on the business fundamentals to develop an edge," said Kusmierczak. "We believe the opportunities to outperform in the European small- and mid-cap space are sustainable, as MiFID II has shifted sell-side securities coverage to large-cap stocks or issuer-paid research. Our team relies on regular meetings with a company's peers, suppliers, and mid-level management on the ground in Europe to identify great businesses and own them for many years," said Pigeon. In addition to the two fund managers, the fund's investment team has a dedicated team of investment and risk analysts. Combined, the team is fluent in nine languages and averages 16 years of European investing experience. Through a collaborative, bottom-up, research-driven process, the team identifies underappreciated quality growth companies, with above-average sustainable growth relative to local market and industry peers. The fund typically holds between 40 and 60 companies. Ratings and rankings







Time Period Overall 1-Year 3-Year 5-Year 10-Year Percentile Rank 16 4 4 1 # of Peers 93 89 76 50 Star Rating 5-star 5-star 5-star 5-star

Category: Europe Stock as of August 31, 2021 Ratings and rankings shown for Institutional Share Class. Other classes may have different performance characteristics and may have different ratings. Morningstar Ratings are based on a Morningstar Risk-Adjusted Return measure. Morningstar Rankings are based on annualized total returns. About Columbia Threadneedle Investments Columbia Threadneedle Investments is a leading global asset manager that provides a broad range of investment strategies and solutions for individual, institutional and corporate clients around the world. With more than 2,000 people, including over 450 investment professionals based in North America, Europe and Asia, we manage $593 billion1 of assets across developed and emerging market equities, fixed income, asset allocation solutions and alternatives. Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global asset management group of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (NYSE: AMP). For more information, please visit columbiathreeedneedleus.com. Follow us on Twitter. Columbia Threadneedle Investments (Columbia Threadneedle) is the global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies. 1 As of June 30, 2021. Includes all assets managed by entities in the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of a mutual fund carefully before investing. For a free prospectus or a summary prospectus, which contains this and other important information about the funds, visit columbiathreadneedleus.com. Read the prospectus carefully before investing. The Fund's prospectus is updated annually in May. Institutional and Institutional2 Class shares are sold at net asset value and have limited eligibility. Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc. offers multiple share classes, not all necessarily available through all firms, and the share class ratings may vary. Contact us for details. Investment risks - Market risk may affect a single issuer, sector of the economy, industry or the market as a whole. International investing involves certain risks and volatility due to potential political, economic or currency instabilities and different financial and accounting standards. Risks are enhanced for emerging market issuers. Investments in small- and mid-cap companies involve risks and volatility greater than investments in larger, more established companies. Morningstar Percentile Rankings are based on the average annual total returns of the funds in the category for the periods stated. They do not include sales charges or redemption fees but do include operating expenses and the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions. Share class rankings vary due to different expenses. If sales charges or redemption fees were included, total returns would be lower. For each fund with at least a three-year history, Morningstar calculates a Morningstar Rating used to rank the fund against other funds in the same category. It is calculated based on a Morningstar Risk-Adjusted Return measure that accounts for variation in a fund's monthly excess performance, without any adjustments for loads (front-end, deferred, or redemption fees), placing more emphasis on downward variations and rewarding consistent performance. Exchange-traded funds and open-ended mutual funds are considered a single population for comparative purposes. The top 10% of funds in each category receive 5 stars, the next 22.5% receive 4 stars, the next 35% receive 3 stars, the next 22.5% receive 2 stars and the bottom 10% receive 1 star. (Each share class is counted as a fraction of one fund within this scale and rated separately, which may cause slight variations in the distribution percentages.) The Overall Morningstar Rating for a fund is derived from a weighted average of the performance figures associated with its three-, five- and ten-year (if applicable) Morningstar Rating metrics. 2021 Morningstar, Inc. All rights reserved. The Morningstar information contained herein: (1) is proprietary to Morningstar and/or its content providers; (2) may not be copied or distributed; and (3) is not warranted to be accurate, complete or timely. Neither Morningstar nor its content providers are responsible for any damages or losses arising from any use of this information. The Refinitiv Lipper Fund Awards are based on the Lipper Leader for Consistent Return rating, which is a risk-adjusted performance measure calculated over 36, 60 and 120 months. The fund with the highest Lipper Leader for Consistent Return (Effective Return) value in each eligible classification wins the Refinitiv Lipper Fund Award. For more information, see lipperfundawards.com. Although Refinitiv Lipper makes reasonable efforts to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data contained herein, the accuracy is not guaranteed by Refinitiv Lipper. Columbia Acorn funds are distributed by Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc., member FINRA, and managed by Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC.  2021 Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC. All rights reserved. Adtrax 3739322 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210908006054/en/

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[September 08, 2021] The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz Announces Investigation of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (SAM) on Behalf of Investors

The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces an investigation of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. ("Boston Beer" or the "Company") (NYSE: SAM) on behalf of investors concerning the Company's possible violations of federal securities laws. If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. On September 8, 2021, after the market closed, Boston Beer announced that it was withdrawing its 2021 financial guidance issued on July 22, 2021 as a result of a decrease in demand for its hard sltzer products. The Company further disclosed that it expects to incur hard seltzer-related inventory write-offs, shortfall fees payable to 3rd party brewers, and other costs associated with the drop in demand during the remainder of fiscal year 2021.



On this news, Boston Beer's share price fell approximately 10% during after-hours trading on September 8, 2021, thereby injuring investors. Follow us for updates on Twitter (News - Alert) : twitter.com/FRC_LAW.

If you purchased Boston Beer securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to info@frankcruzlaw.com, or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210908006156/en/

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[September 08, 2021] Global $1.5 Bn Internet Advertising Market to 2027: Platform (Mobile, Desktop and Laptop), & Advertising Model (CPM, Performance, Hybrid)

DUBLIN, Sept. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Internet Advertising Market Report 2021-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global internet advertising market held a market size of USD 345.33 Million in 2020 and is expected to reach USD 1,503.20 Million by 2027. The global internet advertising market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 24.7% over the forecast period.



Internet advertising uses internet as a platform to send promotional & marketing messages to the customers. Continuous growth of internet users globally is one of the most important factors fueling the growth of online internet advertising market. Businesses use internet advertising such as banners, pay-per-call ads, pay-per-click ads, and pop-ups through e-newsletters, search engines, suitable websites, and online magazines and newspapers to reach the right customer, at the right time.



Continuous increase in penetration of internet across the globe has presented a great opportunity for internet advertising. Growing trend of social media bloggers have also attracted huge attention of young population in the recent years, resulting in growing effectiveness of internet advertising.



Whereas, lack of technological awareness regarding internet usage in developing countries and underdeveloped countries are restraining the market growth.



Significant number of investments are being made by the market players to provide additional features to the internet advertising platforms in order to serve their client's requirements in a better way.



Growth Influencers Continuous growth in the number of internet users across the globe is driving the demand for internet advertising



One of the most important factors fuelling the growth of internet advertising market, is development in the number of iternet users, coupled with the increased adoption of smartphones. Introduction of 5G technology is expected to promote further growth in the number of internet users in the forthcoming years.







Covid-19 pandemic to transform the advertising platforms in the forthcoming years



Growing number of coronavirus cases across the globe has resulted in complete lockdown in various countries across the globe. This has resulted transforming the physical market into digital space. The consumer focus has shifted towards online shopping. This has resulted in the tremendous increase in the usage of internet advertising by the businesses.





Lack of awareness regarding online shopping among older generation is expected to restrain the market growth



Lack of awareness about online shopping, and usage of smartphones & laptops among old aged population, is one the most important factors retraining the market growth. The older generation's shopping behaviour is more inclined towards traditional media of advertisements, resulting in creating a hindrance in the market growth. Competitive Landscape The top 5 market players captured a cumulative share of nearly 71% in the year 2020. Prominent players functioning in the market include: Adobe Systems Inc., Alibaba Group Holdings Limited, Amazon Web Services, Inc., Baidu, Inc., Facebook, Inc., Google LLC, Hulu LLC, International Business Machines Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Twitter Inc., Verizon Communication Inc. Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1. Research Framework

1.1. Research Objective

1.2. Product Overview

1.3. Market Segmentation



Chapter 2. Research Methodology

2.1. Qualitative Research

2.2. Quantitative Research

2.3. Breakdown of Primary Research Respondents, By Region

2.4. Assumption for the Study

2.5. Market Size Estimation

2.6. Data Triangulation



Chapter 3. Executive Summary: Global Internet Advertising Market



Chapter 4. Global Internet Advertising Market Overview

4.1. Industry Value Chain Analysis

4.2. Advertising Industry Outlook (US$ Bn), 2017-2027

4.3. PESTLE Analysis

4.4. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

4.5. Market Dynamics and Trends

4.6. Covid-19 Impact Assessment on Market Growth Trend

4.7. Market Growth and Outlook

4.8. Competition Dashboard



Chapter 5. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Platform

5.1. Key Insights

5.2. Market Size and Forecast, 2017 - 2027 (US$ Mn)



Chapter 6. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Advertising Model



Chapter 7. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Ad Format



Chapter 8. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Ad Type



Chapter 9. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Enterprise Size



Chapter 10. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Industry Vertical



Chapter 11. Global Internet Advertising Market Analysis, By Region



Companies Mentioned Adobe Systems Inc.

Alibaba Group Holdings Limited

Amazon Web Services, Inc.

Baidu, Inc.

Facebook, Inc.

Google LLC

Hulu LLC

International Business Machines Corporation

Microsoft Corporation

Twitter Inc.

Verizon Communication Inc. For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rqwrnz Media Contact: Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com



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Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-1-5-bn-internet-advertising-market-to-2027-platform-mobile-desktop-and-laptop--advertising-model-cpm-performance-hybrid-301371723.html SOURCE Research and Markets

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[September 08, 2021] ZNet Technologies and Acronis empower service providers by expanding distribution partnership in South-east Asia

SINGAPORE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- ZNet Technologies (http://znetcorp.com/), a leading cloud services distributor offering cloud infrastructure and managed services, today announced that it is expanding its distribution partnership with Acronis in six countries, namely Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. With this new development, ZNet will be distributing Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud in the new markets via its partner network. Now, ZNet partners can offer comprehensive range of cyber protection solutions, including backup, disaster recovery, AI-enhanced anti-malware, endpoint security and management tools, file sync and share, and blockchain-based file notarization  with billing and service delivery automation using ZNet's in-house developed automation platform. "Acronis' AI-based unified data protection and cybersecurity solution meets a critical need to secure remote and hybrid networks against the emerging cyberthreats," said Munesh Jadoun, Founder and CEO, ZNet Technologies Private Limited. "Acronis is an incredible solution for our partners looking to equip their end-users with high-end, sophisticated all-in-one cyber protection solution. With addition of Acronis in our distribution portfolio for South-east Asia region and combined with our home-grown service delivery and business automation platform, we aim to enabe partners to deliver Acronis cyber protection solutions with flexible billing options and complete automation using "RackNap", our award-winning platform".



The automation capabilities mean that ZNet partners will be able to provision and manage billing for their Acronis customers' licensing from a single interface, simplifying their onboarding, provisioning, billing, support, and reporting. Partners can also allow their clients to monitor their existing consumption and upgrade/downgrade plans if required. "The cyberthreat landscape has changed dramatically over the past two years. Organizations are seeking not only greater security, but lower costs and improved efficiency  creating unique opportunities for service providers who offer in-demand cyber protection services," said Neil Morarji, Acronis General Manager, Enterprise, Asia Pacific. "The existing relationships that ZNet has developed with its partners in South-east Asia mean they understand the ongoing shift, and they're among the first to meet that demand. ZNet's exceptionally technically qualified team helps us ensure that our customers exploit the full capabilities of our enhanced cyber protection solutions".

About ZNet Technologies ZNet Technologies Private Limited, incorporated in 2009, is a cloud services provider offering cloud infrastructure and managed services to partners and end customers across the globe with primary focus on India. ZNet powers well over 90K websites and applications globally and is one of the very first Microsoft CSPs in India. The business units of ZNet include ZNetLive (domain, hosting, cloud services provider) and RackNap (cloud service delivery and business automation platform). ZNet offers services from Acronis, NTT, Microsoft, AWS, Alibaba Cloud and managed services via its certified cloud professionals. RackNap helps with automating the delivery of cloud services and helps bill the usage based on actual consumption. ZNet is owned by RP tech India (a division of Rashi Peripherals Pvt Ltd.). Founded in 1989, RP tech India is the fastest-growing value-added distributor of IT and mobility solutions with 50 branches and 50 service centers across India. Growing at a consistent 25% CAGR YoY, the company offers products from over 25+ renowned global brands to 9000+ customers spread across 750+ towns/cities in India. For more information, visit http://znetcorp.com/ About Acronis Acronis unifies data protection and cybersecurity to deliver integrated, automated cyber protection that solves the safety, accessibility, privacy, authenticity, and security (SAPAS) challenges of the modern digital world. With flexible deployment models that fit the demands of service providers and IT professionals, Acronis provides superior cyber protection for data, applications, and systems with innovative next-generation antivirus, backup, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management solutions. With award-winning AI-based antimalware and blockchain-based data authentication technologies, Acronis protects any environment  from cloud to hybrid to on-premises  at a low and predictable cost. Founded in Singapore in 2003 and incorporated in Switzerland in 2008, Acronis now has more than 1,700 employees in 34 locations in 19 countries. Its solutions are trusted by more than 5.5 million personal users and 500,000 businesses, including 100% of the Fortune 1000 companies. Acronis' products are available through 50,000 partners and service providers in over 150 countries in more than 30 languages. SOURCE Acronis

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[September 08, 2021]

User-friendly Chatbot & Live Chat Helpdesk Solution, Gitple Chat Enters Singapore Market

SINGAPORE, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Due to the coronavirus, the growth rate of chatbot demand and its introduction into various sectors has grown by more than 35% per year. The global AI chatbot market is now expected to reach between approximately $3.17 billion and $9.4 billion by 2024.

In particular, the chatbot market is on a steep rise in Asia and Oceania and is expected to grow more than 31.5% in 2024.

As a result, Gitple, a company specializing in CS solutions for chatbot and live chat helpdesk, recently entered the Singapore market. Gtple says that its Singapore customer base has been steadily increasing since it started business there.







Gitple Chat can be quickly tested/installed through banners that appear right after signing up. If you have any questions during the installation of Gitple Chat, professional support staff will provide answers in real time when inquiring through live chat. Even if you don't have technical knowledge, easy-to-use guides are also available on the website, which will help companies that have difficulty building B2B softwares.

Gitple Chat provides services that allow various brands to easily create chatbots. These include:

- Provisioning botbuilders for easy chatbot creation for non-developers.

- Integration of free custom designs and company-specific brand concepts into chatbot configuration.

- Chatbot linkage to various customer service chat channels such as KakaoTalk, Line, homepages, apps, etc.

- The operation of FAQ bot scenarios and organization specific, operations live chat helpdesk that can be run separately for different brands and sites, yet collectively managed with a single Gitple Chat plan.

With the advantage of being easily manufactured and user-friendly, Gitple Chat is expected to grow further in line with the expanding global chatbot market.

The efficient, superlative Gitple Chat and membership, suitable for this non-contact era, can be quickly joined at the following link: https://gitple.io/en.

SOURCE Gitple
[September 08, 2021] Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub to Showcase Digital Transformation through Innovation Summit

TAIPEI, Sept. 8, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to the Taipei City Government, on average 15,000 startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are registered in Taipei per year. Taipei offers a wide range of resources including more than 300 startup bases, incubators, venture capitals (VCs), coworking spaces, and many more. This year, in an effort to help promote Taipei's entrepreneurial resources, the Taipei City Government collaborated with EVERIII Consulting and curated the Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub (TEH) project. The project aims to help foreign innovators to soft land in Taipei through summits, educational bootcamps, online and offline networking sessions and events, all hosted in Taipei startup bases. The project is open to and welcomes all startups interested in the Taipei market. From Setember 16th to 17th, TEH will be hosting a two-day FinTech and Smart Retail-focused Taipei Innovation Summit. The summit brings together international startups and multinational corporations to discuss the future of emerging technologies in Taipei. This summit includes keynote speeches, fireside chats, and mentor matchmaking. The morning will focus on an online forum with two keynote speakers from multinational corporations, followed by a panel discussion with both corporate and startup panelists. The afternoon will focus on mentor matchmaking between pre-screened startups and summit speakers or TEH mentors.



On FinTech, corporate speakers from Cathay Financial Holdings Digital, Data, and Technology (DDT) Center and startup companies such as FinaText will share on the future of FinTech and how traditional businesses can better prepare themselves with these tools. On Smart Retail, corporates such as Kuo Brothers, Ally Logistic Property (ALP) and startups in the field will discuss their thoughts on how innovation is revolutionizing traditional retail and how data can help improve business performances. Innovation Summit acts as the pre-event for the upcoming in-depth FinTech and Electric Vehicle (EV) automotive-focused Taipei Soft Landing Bootcamp which will cover term sheet, pitch training, and focus group to help attending startups test their models. The bootcamp will also be followed by a Demo Day in which startups get to pitch to potential investors. The summit is sign-up only, so fill out the form now to secure your seats.

Follow TEH's Facebook Fan Page to receive the latest updates on startup programs, incentives, and market trends within Taipei. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/taipei-entrepreneurs-hub-to-showcase-digital-transformation-through-innovation-summit-301371273.html SOURCE Taipei Entrepreneurs Hub

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[September 08, 2021] InfiRay Releases New Self-Developed Handheld Thermal Imaging Camera Range

YANTAI, China, Sept. 8, 2021 /CNW/ -- IRay Technology Co., Ltd ("InfiRay"), a leading brand in the thermal imaging industry, has today announced the release of its new M200A and P200 handheld thermal cameras with art-of-state IRay thermal CMOS technology. The company will hold a global virtual press conference @facebook. Alongside the product launch, InfiRay also shared the latest R&D breakthroughs behind its two new products. Handheld infrared thermal imaging cameras offer intuitive, intelligent and discreet mobile target detection with no contact required  providing them with a wide range of applications across a number of industries. InfiRay's latest handheld thermal cameras can be used for product development, building inspections, property maintenance, equipment maintenance, and more. "At InfiRay, we are committed to providing our customer with world-class infrared thermal imaging products and solutions. We are thrilled to launch our self-developed M200A and P200 handheld thermal cameras, which offer customers unparalleled accuracy, efficiency and portability," said Mr. Yu, Product Director of IRay Technology.



The InfiRay P200 is a pocket-sized thermal camera, and unlike traditional compact thermal cameras, is equipped with a 0-90 rotary lens, which makes it a perfect tool for inspecting places such as narrow gaps and under car chassis, among multiple other scenarios, where it can be challenging or inaccessible for traditional cameras. In addition, with the combination of 256192 resolution, 56 FOV, up to 0.04C sensitivity, and 550C measuring range, the P200 it not just compact, but also a powerful tool for building inspections, facilities maintenance, HVAC, electrical inspections, etc.

InfiRay also updated their M-series handheld thermal camera line, with the 256192 resolution, focus-free model M200A adding a more budget-friendly choice to the M-series camera, besides the popular M300 and M600. With the inclusion of the new M200A, P200 and other upcoming products, InfiRay's thermography product line now provides handheld and fixed thermal cameras, ranging from entry level, all the way up to high-end solutions, meeting a wide variety of customer thermography needs. About InfiRay InfiRay concentrates on developing infrared thermal imaging technologies and products, with completely independent intellectual property rights. InfiRay is committed to providing global customers with class-leading professional infrared thermal imaging products and solutions. The main products include thermal-CMOS, thermal imaging modules, and thermal cameras and imagers. For media enquiries, please contact: Qiong.wu@iraytek.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/infiray-releases-new-self-developed-handheld-thermal-imaging-camera-range-301366970.html SOURCE IRay Technology Co., Ltd

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[September 08, 2021] Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Highlighting the Indonesia's Tribe's Ancient Traditions, Toraja International Festival 2021 Aims to Push Economic Growth in Toraja

The festival's virtual programs are set to launch on YouTube on September 12 .

. Since 2015, the annual festival has seen a 300% increase in domestic and international tourism in the area. MAKASSAR, Indonesia, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy: The 9th annual Toraja International Festival (TIF), set to celebrate the ancient Torajan traditions, held in the village of Rante Buntu Pempon, Rantepao, on September 4, 2021. TIF's festival program will be aired online on YouTube channel: LOKASWARA PROJECT on September 12, 2021 at 8PM UTC+7.



On spotlights were singing and dancing group, the menfolk Ma'nimbong and womenfolk Ma'dandan. During the event, they presented an age-old performance that have been performed for thousands of years and believed to be a prototype of the modern-world music.

Another highlight included ancient theatrical form Pepe Pepe Baine which showcased the indigenous tribe's mesmerizing mysticisms. Highlighting the Toraja tribal community who lives in untouched villages, the event becomes the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy's strategy to succeed the tourism and creative economy in all lines. "Strategic steps must be taken to elevate the tourism and creative economy sector in order to succeed the economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, we apply the new trend for the events focusing on the elements: Localize, Personalize, Customize, and Smaller in Size," said Sandiaga Uno, the Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy during the opening remarks. He also pointed out that every event should provide economic impact and tourism benefits to local communities. Torajan's intricate culture, most notably their elaborated funeral processions, effigy-filled burial cliffs, and ornate tribal architecture have fascinated onlookers for decades. The hybrid TIF 2021 event aims to offer visitors a rare glimpse into the splendor and mysticism of ancient Toraja, while boosting the city's economic growth. TIF has recorded a significant boost in tourism economy in South Sulawesi. In 2015, for instance, TIF saw an increase of 300% in domestic and international tourism in north Toraja. This year's TIF - held amidst COVID-19 pandemic - returned with plenty of safety measures in place while announcing a virtual program for the public. "With TIF's virtual program, the festival can now reach more audience online and allow more people to enjoy the ancient traditions in Tana Toraja," said Sandiaga. "Despite the challenges faced, we hope that TIF will continue to be a major component in promoting the rise of the tourism and creative economy in the area," he concluded. As part of Kharisma Event Nusantara, TIF 2021 will be held with the strict implementation of CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environment Sustainability) protocol. About the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Driven by a vision to make Indonesia a world-class tourism destination, Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy innovates various breakthroughs to continually grow the creative industry in Indonesia. 'Kharisma Event Nusantara 2021' is one of the government's efforts to encourage the rise of the creative economy in Indonesia. This program is expected to help positively move the national economy in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic and provide direction for event participants on the implementation of the CHSE (Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability) protocol. SOURCE Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy

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[September 08, 2021]

Impetus celebrates Teacher's Day by honoring its trainers and mentors

NEW DELHI, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Impetus Technologies (India) Pvt. Ltd. organizes an exclusive felicitation ceremony to honor its trainers and mentors on the occasion of Teacher's Day. The company expressed its gratitude to the trainers for their continuous contribution towards the learning of individuals and teams.

The organization has numerous learning initiatives to cater to a wide variety of requirements, including working on live simulations on technologies for the engineering excellence program, structured technology ramp-up programs, leadership development programs, amongst many others. The company ensures to fuel the urge for learning, growth, and development.







Sanjeev Agrawal

While schools and universities provide preparation and rehearsals, the corporate world offers the stage to enact and provide a canvas for visualization and progress. The firm believes that a trainer's effectiveness directly impacts the knowledge and productivity of the trainees.

About Impetus Technologies India Pvt. Ltd.

Impetus Technologies is a software products and services company focused on creating powerful and intelligent enterprises. We specialize in Data Engineering and Cloud to provide solutions to Fortune 100 companies.

The company is headquartered in Los Gatos, California with international offices in India, Australia, and Canada.
[September 09, 2021] New Coursera Study Indicates a Narrowing Gender Gap in Online Learning

Coursera, Inc. (NYSE: COUR), one of the largest online learning platforms in the world, released a new study that examines the pandemic's impact on skills and learning trends among women. The Women and Skills Report compares pre-pandemic enrollment and performance data with trends observed on the Coursera platform since the onset of the pandemic through June 2021. Women in the U.S. are learning online at higher rates compared to pre-pandemic, representing 52% of new learners in 2021, up from 47% in 2019, according to Coursera data. More women are also participating in certificate training programs aimed at entry-level digital jobs. The unemployment crisis caused by the pandemic has disproportionately impacted women. As of February 2021, women accounted for the majority of the decrease in U.S. labor force participation, despite making up less than half of the workforce. According to the August 2021 Jobs Report, there are over 1.6 million fewer women in the labor force today compared to February 2020. However, during this period, women increased their investment in learning new skills on Coursera despite the more difficult labor market conditions. "Our research suggests that gender gaps in online learning narrowed during the pandemic, even as gender employment gaps widened," said Jeff Maggioncalda, Coursera CEO. "We are encouraged by how women are embracing online learning to develop new skills that can help accelerate their return to work and promote economic mobility." >



Women are turning to online education at higher rates than pre-pandemic. The U.S. has 8.6 million registered women learners on Coursera, the highest of all countries globally. In 2020, a peak of 62% of new registered U.S. learners were women. While this share is at 52% in 2021, it still represents a significant increase from 47% in 2019. More women are enrolling in STEM courses and entry-level Professional Certificates. In the U.S., the share of overall course enrollments from women increased from 42% in 2019 to 49% in 2021. For STEM courses, the gender gap narrowed from 35% enrollments from women in 2019 to 42% in 2021. Women's enrollments in entry-level Professional Certificates have gone up from 27% in 2019 to 43% in 2021. These certificates, from industry leaders such as Google (News - Alert) , IBM, and Facebook, are designed to prepare learners without a college degree or technology experience for a wide range of high-demand digital jobs. Top skills among U.S. women show a balanced investment in human and digital skills. Top 10 skills from the past year include leadership skills, like communication (1.9M enrollments from U.S. women), management (1.8M), and entrepreneurship (1.4M). Women are also investing in STEM skills, like probability and statistics (1.6M), computer programming (1.1M), and theoretical computer science (1M). Top courses teach job-relevant and personal development skills, including COVID-19 Contact Tracing from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg (News - Alert) School of Public Health and The Science of Wellbeing from Yale University. Businesses, governments, and campuses can play a key role in reducing gender gaps in learning. In 2021 programs where Coursera is used by various governments and campuses in the U.S., there were higher shares of women registered learners (57% and 54% respectively) compared to the U.S. overall (51%). Better gender share is likely to contribute to more diverse talent pipelines for employers. Among businesses, women now constitute 32% of U.S. learners. Women learners enroll more than men in courses taught by women instructors. Instructor representation is one of the most important factors contributing to increases in women's enrollments. Forty-nine percent of enrollments from women learners are in courses with women instructors, compared to 38% for men learners. The most popular women instructors on Coursera include Laurie Santos (The Science of Wellbeing, Yale University), Seung Hae Kang (First Step Korean, Yonsei University), and Dr. Rosa I. Arriaga (Introduction to User Experience, Georgia Institute of Technology (News - Alert) ). Product innovations help grow women's participation in online learning. Factors contributing to enrollment increases from women include adding practice quizzes before challenging assessments (+12% increase in share of lifetime enrollments from women), listing most common mistakes for peer-reviewed assignments (+16%), and distributing assessments throughout a course (+8%). "I earned my computer science degree with only a handful of women alongside me, and while a great deal has changed since then, we still have important work to do to increase women's representation in technology and leadership," said Betty Vandenbosch, Chief Content Officer at Coursera. "Access to flexible, job-relevant education can help women learn the new skills they need to enter high-demand roles and achieve better gender balance in the workforce."

With over 87 million learners and 5,000 courses on the platform, Coursera has one of the largest data sets for identifying and measuring skill trends. The Women and Skills Report includes data from 40 million new learners who registered during the pandemic between January 1, 2020 and June 30, 2021. To download the full report and explore the global and regional findings, visit the Coursera website here. Source (News - Alert) Code: COUR-IR About Coursera Coursera was launched in 2012 by two Stanford Computer Science professors, Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller, with a mission to provide universal access to world-class learning. It is now one of the largest online learning platforms in the world, with 87 million registered learners as of June 30, 2021. Coursera partners with over 200 leading university and industry partners to offer a broad catalog of content and credentials, including courses, Specializations, Professional Certificates, Guided Projects, and bachelor's and master's degrees. Institutions around the world use Coursera to upskill and reskill their employees, citizens, and students in fields such as data science, technology, and business. Coursera became a B Corp in February 2021. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005279/en/

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[September 09, 2021] French Construction and Civil Engineering School ESTP Paris Partners with Dassault Systemes to Advance Student Skills and the Future of Construction

Dassault Systemes (Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) and ESTP Paris, France's leading engineering school in the construction and civil engineering sectors, today announced they have entered into a strategic partnership to enable students to develop new skills that will foster their employability and help accelerate the digital transformation of the construction industry. ESTP Paris, which educates most professionals in the construction, spatial planning, real estate and energy efficiency sectors in France, will integrate Dassault Systemes' (News - Alert) 3DEXPERIENCE platform on the cloud into three curricula: Virtual twin for construction, Construction 4.0 including modular construction, and Smart City. In addition, Dassault Systemes and ESTP Paris will develop innovative courses in these domains that leverage the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. These new learning experiences will equip students with the skills they need to manage the digital aspects of major construction and civil engineering projects once they enter the workforce. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform provides a virtual collaborative environment that transforms traditional construction processes with cloud-based experiences that advance the efficient, innovative and sustainable delivery of new structures and systems. It goes beyond BIM by enabling construction and operational virtual twins for sustainable built environments. "The construction industry is undergoing profound transformation that requires knowledge and know-how to better respond to environmental and social challenges. Companies are relying on top schools like ESTP Paris to train this workforce," said Florence Verzelen, Executive Vice President, Industry, Marketing & Sustainability, Dassault Systemes. "Developing skills in schools and in continuing education with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform will accelerate this trasformation and the delivery of resilient, optimized buildings and infrastructure that improve quality of life. ESTP Paris has understood this, and is leading the way by deploying the platform as the cornerstone of its curricula."



"Digital technologies are facilitating the rapid development of intelligent buildings, smart cities, and sustainable infrastructure. It is imperative that our students master these technologies to become the senior managers needed to build the world of the future while addressing energy efficiency, connectivity, urban growth and other areas," said Joel Cuny, Chief Executive, ESTP Paris. "The 3DEXPERIENCE platform will enable us to train our students on the latest technologies so that they become highly-skilled professionals with sought-after industry skills." Social media:

Share this on Twitter (News - Alert) : French construction and civil engineering school @estpparis partners with @Dassault3DS to advance student skills and the future of construction @3DXEdu #3DEXPERIENCE Connect with Dassault Systemes on Twitter Facebook LinkedIn YouTube For more information: Dassault Systemes' 3DEXPERIENCE Edu: https://academy.3ds.com/en Dassault Systemes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions: http://www.3ds.com About Dassault Systemes Dassault Systemes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, is a catalyst for human progress. We provide business and people with collaborative 3D virtual environments to imagine sustainable innovations. By creating virtual twin experiences of the real world with our 3DEXPERIENCE platform and applications, our customers push the boundaries of innovation, learning and production. Dassault Systemes brings value to more than 290,000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com 3DEXPERIENCE, the Compass (News - Alert) icon, the 3DS logo, CATIA, BIOVIA, GEOVIA, SOLIDWORKS, 3DVIA, ENOVIA, NETVIBES, MEDIDATA, CENTRIC PLM, 3DEXCITE, SIMULIA, DELMIA, and IFWE are commercial trademarks or registered trademarks of Dassault Systemes, a French "societe europeenne" (Versailles Commercial Register # B 322 306 440), or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005074/en/

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RtBrick Brings Disaggregated Broadband Networking to a Wider Market

RtBrick has added support for the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to its pioneering Broadband Network Gateway (News - Alert) (BNG) routing software. DHCP is a popular access protocol used by many telcos and is used for Internet Protocol over Ethernet (IPoE) broadband connections.

The BNG is a specialized high-performance router that telcos use to deliver broadband services at the edge of their networks. Traditionally, these routers have been proprietary systems, with integrated hardware and software, but RtBrick has pioneered an approach that disaggregates the software from the underlying hardware. RtBrick's software turns commodity bare-metal-switches into powerful fully-featured BNGs, providing far greater flexibility for operators at much lower cost points.

"Our first customer deployments used the widely adopted Point-to-Point Protocol ver Ethernet (PPPoE) access protocol, but DHCP is a popular alternative that is also used by a large portion of the market," said Hannes Gredler, founder and chief technology officer at RtBrick. "Adding DHCP functionality means we can now bring the benefits of disaggregated routing to almost every broadband network."







RtBrick's BNG software supports both DHCP Relay and DHCP Proxy flavors of the DHCP protocol and supports both IPv4 and IPv6. It is available today.

To learn more about RtBrick's pioneering approach to networking and the latest features of its open routing software, visit rtbrick.com.

About RtBrick

RtBrick has pioneered carrier routing software that runs on off-the-shelf hardware. It has applied the same approach to networks that the huge 'cloud-natives' have used to build and operate their web-scale IT services. RtBrick is a privately held company, incorporated in the USA, with staff located in Europe and India.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005115/en/
[September 09, 2021] Zapr Partners with PubMatic to Expand Addressability Footprint for Marketers in India

Marketers Benefit from Unique Data Segments to Integrate TV and Digital Campaigns Across PubMatic's Premium Inventory BENGALURU, India, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Zapr Media Labs, a fast-growing media-tech startup that provides granular TV viewership data and also one of the world's largest offline media consumption repositories, today announced a partnership with PubMatic, a sell-side platform that delivers superior outcomes for digital advertising, to make its unique audience data segments available across PubMatic's publisher network in India. Zapr uses best-in-class proprietary audio content recognition (ACR) technology to understand content consumption across TV and digital media for an audience of over 200 million users across India. Zapr's deterministic profiling of audiences allows for more granular audience segmentation and targeting. These smart segments can be targeted across the mobile digital ecosystem based on their unique offline media consumption behaviour. The partnership will enable media buyers to build integrated TV and digital plans by leveraging Zapr's rich audience segments across all digital screens and channels -- including mobile, connected TV, and the open web -- on PubMatic's premium inventory. The direct integration, via PubMatic's Audience Encore , allows buyers to activate data at the supply level. PubMatic's Audience Encore is an audience data platform designed toimprove how marketers and data owners transact by giving more control to the data owner and better ROI for the advertiser. Publishers with first-party data and data providers can simply upload their segments to Audience Encore, generate a Deal ID for single, recurring, or customized use, and then transact programmatically alongside premium PubMatic inventory in private or open marketplaces.



'There is significant adoption of programmatic advertising in the India market, where it has become an integral part of most brands' digital plans. This collaboration with PubMatic will expand the accessibility footprint of Zapr's unique TV and behavioural segments for agency and brand partners', said Bhavna Saincher, SVP, Revenue and Ad-Ops at Zapr. 'Marketers can easily deploy their digital campaigns across 200 million profiled audiences to build scale on top of their media campaigns'. Zapr uses media consumption data to help brands bridge the gap across two screens. Using Zapr segments, buyers can:

Extend the reach and impact of their TV plans

Drive action-orientated engagement

Reach under-exposed audiences

Reach competitor audiences Users are defined based on more than 200 attributes collected from both online and offline consumption behaviour. Audiences include parents, working professionals, OTT viewers, audiences behind paywalls, and many more. Zapr's advanced ACR technology is built with a 'privacy by design' approach, and all resulting segments are privacy focused and deterministic. '"With Zapr data available through PubMatic's Audience Encore, our clients can expand their media campaigns and reach new, highly targeted audiences", said Amit Yadav, Country Manager, South Asia at PubMatic. "The current festive season and IPL are a great time for brands to engage with consumers - this partnership provides an exciting opportunity to connect the dots between both TV and digital screens to drive better return on investment for advertisers." About Zapr Zapr Media Labs is a fast-growing media-tech startup funded by Star India, Flipkart, Saavn and is backed by several iconic angel investors. With unique, proprietary media consumption data at massive scale, Zapr bridges the gap between the offline and online worlds by enabling TV-to-Mobile audience engagement. Zapr works with advertisers as well as broadcasters to help them better understand media consumption, and target their audiences more efficiently across screens. About PubMatic PubMatic delivers superior revenue to publishers by being an SSP of choice for agencies and advertisers. PubMatic's cloud infrastructure platform for digital advertising empowers app developers and publishers to increase monetization while enabling media buyers to drive return on investment by reaching and engaging their target audiences in brand-safe, premium environments across ad formats and devices. Since 2006, PubMatic has been expanding its owned and operated global infrastructure and continues to cultivate programmatic innovation. With a globally distributed workforce and no corporate headquarters, PubMatic operates 14 offices and eight data centers across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

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[September 09, 2021] Next.e.GO Mobile SE opens its first Brand Store in the capital of Germany's most populous state

- The Brand Store is located by the Dusseldorf's Konigsallee, one of Europe's most visited fashion destinations. - Store combines customer experience centre, sales and support. - Opening of more brand stores underway. AACHEN, Germany, Sept. 6, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Following the successful start of production and launch of nation-wide sales, Next.e.GO Mobile SE, the independent German EV manufacturer, has begun opening its Brand Stores across Europe with first stop in Dusseldorf, the capital of Germany's most populous state. Inaugurated on the 4th of September with the presence of media and guests just ahead of IAA 2021, the first Brand Store is located at the iconic Schadow-Arkaden by the Dusseldorf's Koigsallee, one of Europe's most visited fashion destinations.



In the brand stores, visitors can experience the vehicles personally up close and get acquainted with e.GO's disruptive production technology, unique design elements and its smart features. Customers could also do test drive and order the vehicle directly at the Brand Store. The company is accelerating the opening of its new brand stores in other cities with Hamburg, Munich, Milan, Athens and Dubai on the way.

Alongside the start of company's global campaign "The Time Is Now", the opening of the first brand store marks another important milestone in e.GO's journey to accelerate the much-needed transformation in the urban e-mobility by offering a sustainable, durable and affordable electric car that is also unique in many aspects. "The Time is Now reflects our profound conviction of the urgency for a collective action as well as the need for individual responsibility to combat climate change. We ought to challenge the old habits and limitless consumption, to rethink mobility with enhanced utilization and circular economy being front and center. Our children only have one planet to live on!" said Ali Vezvaei, Chairman of the Board at Next.e.GO Mobile SE. Accelerating adoption in urban environment Affordability, ease of use and life cycle sustainability are key to driving the adoption of electro mobility in the ever growing urban environment. And e.GO offers them all. The robust aluminium spaceframe and the highly durable polymeric outer body give the e.GO Life a longer life cycle and lower total cost of ownership. The smart battery swap feature, first of its kind for an urban electric car, provides a different user experience and peace of mind while enhancing the ecological footprint of e.GO compared to many other choices in the market. Press photo: Opening ceremony of the e.GO Brand Store in Dusseldorf Copyright  - Next.e.GO Mobile SE Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1608720/eGO_store_Dusseldorf.jpg

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[September 09, 2021] Unveiling Infosys Equinox: Digital Commerce Platform Driving Human-Centric and Memorable Omnichannel Shopping Experiences

- API-first, microservices-based, headless, cloud-native platform evolved from Skava Commerce BENGALURU, India, Sept. 9, 2021 /CNW/ -- Infosys (NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today launched Infosys Equinox to help enterprises securely deliver hyper-segmented, personalized omnichannel commerce experiences for B2B and B2C buyers. The platform's future-ready architecture offers unprecedented flexibility for enterprises to pick and choose out-of-the-box microservices and pre-built experiences to build curated digital journeys that enhance their digital commerce or launch it grounds-up in a matter of weeks. Infosys Equinox also brings together best-of-breed service, product, platform and industry capabilities from Infosys, and its partners, in an integrated ecosystem. This delivers end-to-end commerce-as-a-service for enterprises to drive results, throughout the purchase lifecycle, that shoppers care about. Infosys Equinox is used by several leading global enterprises in retail, CPG, telecom, manufacturing, automotive and media, and helps drive $15B+ in annual eCommerce gross merchandise value. Infosys Equinox helps businesses transform their digital commerce across marketing, merchandizing, e-commerce, store operations, supply chain and customer service through its four offerings: Infosys Equinox Microservices, Infosys Equinox Commerce, Infosys Equinox Experiences, and Infosys Equinox Marketing. It delivers: Customer experience excellence Infosys Equinox facilitates closer consumer-brand interactions by enabling brands to deliver unique customer journeys that take advantage of emerging social, chat, voice, and augmented reality commerce channels. The platform blends digital experiences with physical ones to deliver more satisfying phygital and contactless shopping. Creating multi-sites adapted for multiple languages and currencies, with deeply localized features and real-time promotions is very convenient with the platform's simplified business user tooling and workflows  requiring no changes to the application code or configuration. Scale and flexibility to match shopper demands With its industry-leading cloud-native, microservices-based, API-first architecture, Infosys Equinox is the only digital commerce platform that brands will need to meet the evolving expectations of consumers. The platform offers a rich repository of mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive microservices that can easily integrate with an existing or new platform to deliver headless commerce capabilities. These microservices enable various commerce models used by enterprises including B2B, B2C, B2B2C, D2C, C2M, online marketplaces and digital malls. With its superior technology architecture, this 'any-cloud' platform builds upon leading open-source technologies, and is designed for high performance, availability and security that is best-in-class. Relevance through innovation Infosys Equinox's integrated ecosystem of capabilities, spanning from experience to operations, lets enterprises deepen customer relevance throughout the commerce value chain. Ranging from perceptive experience design by WONGDOODY, to optimized retail execution with Infosys TradeEdge, the platform puts the shopper at the center of the enterprise's commerce strategy. With Infosys Equinox, businesses can also deploy segment-specific, user experience innovations on-demand. Karmesh Vaswani, Executive Vice President & Global Head Consumer, Retail & Logistics, Infosys, said, "With the customer experience landscape evolving every week, companies can't afford to get into a 'set it-forget it' mod. It will take embracing a human-centric approach to create distinctive shopping experiences that match the pulse of consumers. Infosys Equinox makes this less of a struggle. It offers commerce-as-a-service to engage with both B2B and B2C shoppers through one platform that has 50+ percent greater speed-to-market than any other solution when it comes to adding new microservices or starting a new commerce presence. Infosys Equinox provides the perfect balance between agility and adaptability and is a great way for leaders to cement their advantage and for challengers to up their commerce play."



Businesses, the world over, are taking advantage of Infosys Equinox and industry experts attest to its value. Eric Nelson, Chief Information Officer North America, The Kraft Heinz Company, said, "Infosys Equinox serves us as a digital hub powering over 250 of our global brand sites, B2B ecommerce and recipe sites, as well as direct-to-consumer (D2C) initiatives. We are able to launch new brand sites in as little as 3 to 5 days. The platform also supports our hyper-personalization initiatives and distills real-time insights for our marketing programs. With Infosys Equinox, we at Kraft Heinz are well set to offer richer, more personalized, and meaningful experiences to our consumers."

Prasad Gankanda, Chief Operating Officer, Young Living, said, "You 'reap what you sow' is in our DNA here at Young Living. We know that a bountiful harvest is the result of months of hard work. With Infosys Equinox, we planted the seeds of our new e-commerce platform, and now with the platform and the Infosys team's dedication, we are finally harvesting. Thank you for helping to transform Young Living, and bringing us into the modern age of e-commerce." "B2C and B2B organizations face immense challenges to succeed in today's digital economy. Customers' expectations are sky-high, eCommerce competition is fierce, and an explosion of commerce channels and touchpoints have all raised the bar on omni-channel experiences for every online merchant. The COVID-19 crisis has also accelerated the shift of transactions from offline to online," said Jordan Jewell, Research Director for IDC's Digital Commerce Program. "Headless/API-first digital commerce has emerged as an architectural paradigm to help merchants deliver more engaging commerce experiences across every channel and touchpoint their customers are on. Infosys Equinox was architected cloud-natively as a headless commerce platform with the purpose of enabling B2C and B2B organizations to overcome the challenges of modern commerce and grow." For a quick overview of Infosys Equinox, please click on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBaJ_jcmlGo. Please watch the Infosys Equinox logo reveal video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDPEp-as1nE To read more about Infosys Equinox, please visit: https://www.infosysequinox.com/ About Infosys Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in more than 50 countries to navigate their digital transformation. With over four decades of experience in managing the systems and workings of global enterprises, we expertly steer our clients through their digital journey. We do it by enabling the enterprise with an AI-powered core that helps prioritize the execution of change. We also empower the business with agile digital at scale to deliver unprecedented levels of performance and customer delight. Our always-on learning agenda drives their continuous improvement through building and transferring digital skills, expertise, and ideas from our innovation ecosystem. Visit www.infosys.com to see how Infosys ((NSE: INFY) (BSE: INFY) (NYSE: INFY) can help your enterprise navigate your next. Safe Harbor Certain statements in this release concerning our future growth prospects, financial expectations and plans for navigating the COVID-19 impact on our employees, clients and stakeholders are forward-looking statements intended to qualify for the 'safe harbor' under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties relating to these statements include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties regarding COVID-19 and the effects of government and other measures seeking to contain its spread, risks related to an economic downturn or recession in India, the United States and other countries around the world, changes in political, business, and economic conditions, fluctuations in earnings, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, our ability to manage growth, intense competition in IT services including those factors which may affect our cost advantage, wage increases in India, our ability to attract and retain highly skilled professionals, time and cost overruns on fixed-price, fixed-time frame contracts, client concentration, restrictions on immigration, industry segment concentration, our ability to manage our international operations, reduced demand for technology in our key focus areas, disruptions in telecommunication networks or system failures, our ability to successfully complete and integrate potential acquisitions, liability for damages on our service contracts, the success of the companies in which Infosys has made strategic investments, withdrawal or expiration of governmental fiscal incentives, political instability and regional conflicts, legal restrictions on raising capital or acquiring companies outside India, unauthorized use of our intellectual property and general economic conditions affecting our industry and the outcome of pending litigation and government investigation. Additional risks that could affect our future operating results are more fully described in our United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings including our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2021. These filings are available at www.sec.gov. Infosys may, from time to time, make additional written and oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and our reports to shareholders. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that may be made from time to time by or on behalf of the Company unless it is required by law. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/unveiling-infosys-equinox-digital-commerce-platform-driving-human-centric-and-memorable-omnichannel-shopping-experiences-301372264.html SOURCE Infosys

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[September 09, 2021] Rare Sense's NFT platform Superfandom set to be "OpenSea for fan engagement"

Houston, TX, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Blockchain company Rare Senses NFT platform Superfandom connects creators, celebrities and influencers to their fans through NFTs and is the OpenSea for fan engagement. The creator-fan engagement market is exploding in lock step with the burgeoning $100B+ creator economy. Fan engagement has become a critical growth engine for fueling influence in a tough, saturated field of influencers.

With that backdrop, theres now an NFT revolution on the way. But creators who dont have digital art to offer find themselves on the periphery. Such creators are mostly forced to resort to commissioning artists and dropping digital art NFTs, trying to milk the opportunity due to FOMO.



But such NFT drops are a hit or miss at best. Many a time, theyre viewed as inauthentic and as cash grabs. Theres real danger that reputations and brands can be tarnished. Simply put, there needs to be a simple way for creators to get into the NFT game via offering whatever their superfans want the most. This way their NFT strategy would have longevity.



The blockchain company Rare Sense is building technology to handle just that. Its platform Superfandom enables creators to launch NFTs that can have exclusive experiences or access programmed into them. These could be both online or offlineexperiences their superfans will love, from social media collabs all the way to one of a kind in-person interactions. Their tech handles token redemptions, community building, secondary markets, disputes and even refunds.







Were making an end-to-end solution" says CEO Hassan Baig.  Were making what all digital native young people of today, and tomorrow, will want to use to interact with their favorite creators.



Fan engagement and cryptocurrencies have mingled before. The rise of social tokens in 2020 and beyond are well known. On how social tokens differ from NFTs as vehicles of fan-engagement, Hassan says market forces are much, much stronger for NFT adoption. Social tokens and their economies are tough for the lay creator to understand, whereas selling NFTs is highly intuitive for anyone whos ever sold or bought tickets in their life. Thats why NFTs are sucking in all the creators of the world. Its a much more efficient on-ramp.





But why use NFTs for experiences or exclusive access, when a creator can simply issue tickets? Hassan says sure, you can do it without NFTs, but that means the creator misses out on the royalties, and the fans miss out on owning an asset they can trade. He points out how the influencer Gary Vee launched Veefriends, which now commands significant secondary market interest, enriching both Gary and his superfans. Its a win-win. Once you try it out with NFTs, you dont want to go back to old-school tickets, Hassan says.



Rare Sense Inc., the company behind Superfandom, is funded by the Stacks blockchain. For those not in the know, Stacks has brought smart contracts to Bitcoin. Hassan points out our NFTs are secured by Bitcoin, which is not only attractive for those loyal to the Bitcoin ecosystem, but also those in the mainstream for whom Bitcoin is eponymous to cryptocurrencies. It remains to be seen whether Bitcoin-backed NFTs take off - but if signs from other blockchains like Solana, Tron and Flow are any indication - the chances look really good. After all, its Bitcoin.



According to CSO Sophia Pervez, the platform has a global outlook already having numerous big names from Hollywood, Bollywood and Kpop, as well as many mega social media influencers . A mainnet launch is coming up. Well further democratize the NFT market for creators and their fans. Im excited to see what the OGs of the space do with it!, adds Hassan. To learn more, visit www.superfandom.io About Superfandom Superfandom is an NFT platform that allows influencers to connect to their fans by issuing special NFTs. Influencers can make NFTs with exclusive access for superfans, like VIP access, 1-on-1 collabs, calls, etc. To learn more about Superfandom, visit the website https://www.superfandom.io/ . Media Contact - CEO name: Hassan Baig

Company name: Superfandom, a product by Rare Sense Inc.

Contact Email: contact@superfandom.io



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[September 09, 2021] BofA Unveils "VAM 2.0", an Enhanced Virtual Account Management Solution

Following a multi-year investment, Bank of America has launched the next generation of its global Virtual Account Management (VAM) solution to address the growing complexities that treasurers face today when managing global operations. "Business growth can make cash management unnecessarily complex and opaque as new bank accounts are regularly opened to support operations in different countries or subsidiaries," said Liba Saiovici, head of Global Receivables in Global Transaction Services (News - Alert) at Bank of America. "Whether companies are already operating worldwide or seeking to simplify their internal structure, our VAM platform can help them optimize their treasury operations." New features of Bank of America's enhanced VAM solution include: A single global view . From a single dashboard, clients have visibility of virtual accounts across countries with the ability to set up structures in 30+ currencies.

. From a single dashboard, clients have visibility of virtual accounts across countries with the ability to set up structures in 30+ currencies. Flexibility . Accessed through the bank's CashPro platform, clients can manage virtual account structures and transactions via the new self-service user interface or via file transmission.

. Accessed through the bank's CashPro platform, clients can manage virtual account structures and transactions via the new self-service user interface or via file transmission. Digital account transition made easy. With VAM fully integrated into the bank's CashPro and foreign exchange platforms, clients can now take advantage of our full suite of reporting and electronic payment and receipt types. "Since introducing VAM six years ago, we've acquired deep experience in understanding what our clients need most from virtual accounts, and we've built this enhanced solution to meet those needs," said Matthew Davies, co-head of Global Corporate GTS Sales and head of GTS EMEA. "VAM has multiple usecases beyond its most well-known one, being receivables reconciliation. In our view, nearly every company could benefit from its powerful capabilities."



The enhanced solution is currently available in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Netherlands. Subsequent roll-outs will occur in other countries and regions throughout 2021 and beyond. Bank of America is an award-winning provider of global transaction services. Most recently, the bank was named Outstanding Financial Innovator - 2021 Global by Global Finance magazine.

Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 66 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 4,300 retail financial centers, approximately 17,000 ATMs, and award-winning digital banking with approximately 41 million active users, including approximately 32 million mobile users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 3 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and approximately 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. "Bank of America" is the marketing name used by certain Global Banking and Global Markets businesses of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, other commercial banking activities, and trading in certain financial instruments are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC.  2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. For more Bank of America news, including dividend announcements and other important information, visit the Bank of America newsroom and register for email news alerts. www.bankofamerica.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005138/en/

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[September 09, 2021] KKR Appoints Kerryann Benjamin as Chief Diversity Officer and Head of Talent Management

KKR, a leading global investment firm, today announced the appointment of Kerryann Benjamin as Chief Diversity Officer and Head of Talent Management, effective immediately. In this role, Ms. Benjamin will be based in New York and will drive KKR's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) strategy, a strategic priority for the firm, as well as KKR's global talent development strategy. Ms. Benjamin joins KKR from Goldman Sachs & Co, where she spent nearly two decades in various roles across the business and Human Capital Management team, including as Head of Human Capital Management for their Consumer and Wealth Management business. Throughout her time at Goldman Sachs & Co, Ms. Benjamin also held leadership roles in Global Leadership and Diversity, and served as Head of Firmwide Programming and Digital Learning. Sandra Ozola, Global Head of Human Capital at KKR, said, "While we are proud of the progress we have made over the last few years taking steps to increase our diversity and inclusion efforts, we are committed to going even further as we continue this important work with our employees and he communities that we serve. We recognize that we need to keep raising the bar, thinking big and being bold in taking actions in finding and retaining exceptional talent and having an inclusive workplace and experience for all. We also recognize that Kerryann is the right person to help us do exactly that, and we look forward to seeing all that we will accomplish under her leadership."



"I am honored to be joining KKR and to build on the momentum already underway to find and support best-in-class talent and drive greater diversity, inclusion and equity at a firm that rightly values its people as its greatest asset," said Ms. Benjamin. About KKR

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management and capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR's insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of The Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries. For additional information about KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR), please visit KKR's website at www.kkr.com and on Twitter (News - Alert) @KKR_Co. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005323/en/

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[September 09, 2021] IRIS.TV Announces Partnership with Amagi to Provide Seamless Onboarding of Video Data for Contextual Targeting Across CTV

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- IRIS.TV, the leading video data platform, and Amagi, a global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for broadcast and connected TV, today announced that they have entered into a partnership to enable contextual targeting on ad inventory of premium CTV content from participating content brands on Amagi platform.

The new partnership will provide broadcasters and streaming video providers with seamless onboarding of their video data, so it can be activated for contextual targeting across connected devices and smart TVs. As a result, the partnership will immediately provide advertising buyers with access to contextually aligned premium programming at scale from participating content brands on Amagi platform that would otherwise be unavailable due to technical limitations. According to data recently released by eMarketer, digital ad spending in the United States will reach $191 billion in 2021, representing a 25% increase year-over-year. IRIS.TV and Amagi together make it possible to optimize performance and monetization of one of the fastest growing sectors of that marketplace--Free Ad-supported Streaming TV (FAST). IRIS.TV enables video-level contextual targeting and brand-safety analysis across content providers and platforms, while Amagis media SaaS solutions allow content brands to launch, distribute and monetize their live linear and on-demand content quickly and easily. Amagi supports more than 500 content brands, 800+ playout chains, and over 2000 channel deliveries. It offers the widest FAST distribution network, with over 50 platform partnerships globally. It also manages nearly 25 billion ad opportunities per year through its server-side ad insertion platform. Before IRIS.TV, contextual and brand-safety data for videos was only available by analyzing the text on a webpage and was an impossibility for CTV. Now, for the first time, marketers can think inside the video with the transparency to confidently buy CTV and premium video inventory based on video-level contextual and brand-safety analysis and according to the specific topical nature of every video. Ad inventory from participating content brands on Amagi platform can now be IRIS-enabled, providing buyers with the ability to reach contextually aligned video programming tageted by IRIS.TVs data partners - including Oracle Advertising, GumGum, Comscore, Silverbullet 4D, Kerv Interactive, Zefr, Advanced Contextual and more.



As the rapid acceleration of viewership for CTV and digital video continues, there has not been enough access to high-quality CTV inventory, especially as demand for contextual targeting increases, said Field Garthwaite, co-founder and CEO of IRIS.TV. Due to limited developer resources for custom platform integrations, content providers are often unable to access the tools necessary to effectively activate contextual targeting, importantly, at the video level. This partnership between Amagi and IRIS.TV addresses a crucial need for ad buyers, activating an enormous amount of FAST inventory at scale and applying our contextual targeting and brand safety tools to a trove of new premium inventory. Our goal is to allow content brands to maximize the value of their ad inventory. Video-level data is essential to both meet the growing demands of CTV ad buyers and unlock that value for our publisher partners, said Srinivasan KA, Co-founder, Amagi. Our new partnership with IRIS.TV enables content brands to leverage contextual targeting to realize the full value of their assets.

Im excited to have IRIS.TV as a part of our partner ecosystem, said Sudhir Shabad, Vice President, WW Alliances & Partnerships, Amagi. As we move the needle from 'Good to Great', this partnership marks a paradigm shift in how content providers and ad buyers collaborate, adding value to the overall ecosystem." "As OTT/CTV continues to grow, we believe that contextual targeting will help publishers create meaningful advertising experiences and connections with our growing audience, and in turn build a more impactful connection with the Tastemade consumer for our brand partners," said Douglas Paul, Ad Ops Director, Tastemade. "We are delighted to be working with IRIS.TV, which is at the forefront of this technology, as we embrace this new world and all the opportunities it provides." About IRIS.TV IRIS.TV is engineering the most open video data ecosystem in the world to power meaningful connections between brands and consumers. Our video data platform provides publishers, media brands and connected tv apps with secure onboarding and activation of their video data and marketers with video-level transparency. Since 2013, weve enabled our partners to build scalable solutions on top of our platform including video-level contextual and brand-safe ad targeting, third-party verification, personalized video recommendations, and measurement & analytics solutions. For more information, visit www.iris.tv About Amagi

Amagi is a next-generation media technology company that provides cloud broadcast and targeted advertising solutions to broadcast TV and streaming TV platforms. Amagi enables content owners to launch, distribute and monetize live linear channels on Free-Ad-Supported TV and video services platforms. Amagi also offers 24x7 cloud managed services bringing simplicity, advanced automation, and transparency to the entire broadcast operations. Overall, Amagi supports 500+ content brands, 800+ playout chains and over 2000 channel deliveries on its platform in over 40 countries. Amagi has presence in New York, Los Angeles, Toronto, London, Paris, Singapore, broadcast operations in New Delhi, and an innovation center in Bangalore. IRIS.TV Contact:

Alexandra Levy

650-996-5758

alex@siliconalley-media.com Amagi Contact:

Sanjay Kirimanjeshwar

Head of Global Marketing

Email: sanjay@amagi.com



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[September 09, 2021] mdf commerce and Logic join forces to launch omnichannel commerce platform for a high-end, innovative grocery and restaurant destination in NYC

MONTREAL, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- mdf commerce inc. (TSX:MDF), a leader in SaaS commerce technology, is pleased to announce that Orckestra, their headless commerce solution, and Logic, a global leader in retail consulting, are the winning combination set to deploy an omnichannel grocery shopping experience for an ambitious luxury grocery and restaurant destination set to launch in New York City in 2022.

This new client has chosen Orckestra and Logic to manage the integration of a commerce solution capable of delivering state-of-the-art shopping experiences and to meet the high expectations of their customers. The integration will align cross-channel shopping via mobile, web as well as in-store, and create a memorable, unified user experience. The grocery industry needs solutions that provide agility to create memorable experiences and build customer loyalty while efficiently managing omnichannel orders and maintaining healthy profit margins, explained Pedro Silva, Chief Customer Officer at Logic. Orckestra's solution can help achieve these goals, which we see as mission critical for the grocery community. Logic is a global leader in retail consulting with a long-standing history in implementing retail technologies in the grocery industry. Orckestra provides retailers and grocers with first-class customer experiences via their commerce platform, which caters to complex business requirements. Together, they implement digital and omnichannel commerce solutions that maximize client investments. This extensive knowledge in quality technological implementations has made their partnership th clients logical choice for a grocery and restaurant destination of this size.



Partnering with Logic was a natural choice for this projects success. Logic brings tremendous value to our clients with their track record of successful, commerce technologies deployments, added Catherine Roy, Interim President, ecommerce at mdf commerce. By combining our respective strengths, expertise and passion, we will be able to bring this project to fruition and deliver a superior commerce platform to our clientele. About mdf commerce inc.

mdf commerce inc. (TSX:MDF) enables the flow of commerce by providing a broad set of SaaS solutions that optimize and accelerate commercial interactions between buyers and sellers. Our platforms and services empower businesses around the world, allowing them to generate billions of dollars in transactions on an annual basis. Our eprocurement, Unified Commerce and emarketplace platforms are supported by a strong and dedicated team of approximately 800 employees based in Canada, the United States, Denmark, Ukraine and China. For more information, please visit us at mdfcommerce.com, follow us on LinkedIn or call at 1-877-677-9088. About Logic Information Systems Logic Information Systems has been solving retail business problems for over 20 years. What sets the company apart is its approach: Logic applies a consumer-centric lens towards the creation and execution of Omnichannel Strategies and Digital Transformation. With offices in more than 10 countries and 700+ employees, Logic has empowered more than 150 brands worldwide with the knowledge and support to deliver world-class experiences for customers. For further information: mdf commerce

Catherine Roy

Interim President, ecommerce

Phone: +1 450 449-0102 #2005

Email: catherine.roy@mdfcommerce.com mdf commerce

Andre Leblanc

Vice President, Marketing and Public Affairs

Phone: +1 (514) 961-0882

Email: andre.leblanc@mdfcommerce.com



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[September 09, 2021] Alpha Cognition to Webcast Live at Life Sciences Investor Forum September 16th

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 09, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Alpha Cognition, Inc. (TSX-V: ACOG)(OTCQB: ACOGF)(Alpha Cognition, or the Company), a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing novel therapies with the potential to transform the lives of people with debilitating neurodegenerative disorders, today announced that Michael McFadden, CEO, will present live at LifeSciencesInvestorForum.com on September 16th. Mr. McFadden will provide an overview of the Company's business, highlighting the Companys lead asset, ALPHA-1062, as well as its early-stage asset, ALPHA-0602, during the presentation.

DATE: Thursday, September 16th

TIME: 10:30 AM ET

LINK: https://bit.ly/3mKt7tj This will be a live, interactive online event where investors are invited to ask the company questions in real-time. If attendees are not able to join the event live on the day of the conference, an archived webcast will also be made available after the event. It is recommended that investors pre-register and run the online system check to expedite participation and receive event updates. Learn more about the event at www.lifesciencesinvestorforum.com. ALPHA-1062, is a patented new chemical entity that has demonstrated safety and improved tolerability in human clinical trials. It is being developed as a new generation acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, with minimal gastrointestinal side effects and novel routes of administration. ALPHA-1062's active metabolites are differentiated from donepezil and rivastigmine in that they may sensitize neuronal nicotinic receptors, most notably the alpha-7 subtype, which is known to have a positive effect on cognition. The Company expects to be able to submit a 505(b)(2) New Drug Application (NDA) for ALPHA-1062 as early as Q3 2022. ALPHA-0602 (Progranuln) is expressed in several cell types in the central nervous system and in peripheral tissues, regulates cell survival and certain inflammatory processes, and plays a major role in regulating lysosomal function and microglial responses to disease. Its use for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases has been patented by the Company and granted an Orphan Drug Designation.



About Alpha Cognition Inc.

Alpha Cognition Inc. is a clinical stage, biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing treatments for underserved neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's Dementia and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). About Life Sciences Investor Forum

Life Sciences Investor Forum is the leading proprietary investor conference series that provides an interactive forum for Life Sciences companies to meet with and present directly to investors.

A real-time solution for investor engagement, Life Sciences Investor Forum is powered by Intrado Digital Media and specifically designed for more efficient investor access. Replicating the look and feel of on-site investor conferences, Life Sciences Investor Forum combines leading-edge conferencing and investor communications capabilities with a comprehensive global investor audience network. Neither TSX Venture Exchange (the TSX-V), OTC Markets Group, nor the TSX-Vs Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-looking Statements

This news release is not, and under no circumstances is to be construed as, an advertisement or a public offering of securities. No securities commission or similar authority in Canada or in any other jurisdiction has reviewed or in any way passed upon this news release or the merits of the securities described herein and any representation to the contrary is an offence. This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Except for statements of historical fact, any information contained in this news release may be a forward-looking statement that reflects the Companys current views about future events and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the words may, might, will, could, would, should, expect, intend, plan, objective, anticipate, believe, estimate, predict, project, potential, target, seek, contemplate, continue and ongoing, or the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology intended to identify statements about the future. Forward-looking statements may include statements regarding the Companys business strategy, market size, potential growth opportunities, capital requirements, clinical development activities, the timing and results of clinical trials, regulatory submissions, potential regulatory approval and commercialization of the technology. Although the Company believes that we have a reasonable basis for each forward-looking statement, we caution you that these statements are based on a combination of facts and factors currently known by us and our expectations of the future, about which we cannot be certain. The Company cannot assure that the actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release and the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements for any reason, even if new information becomes available in the future. This news release may also contain estimates and other statistical data made by independent parties and by the Company relating to share value and other data about our industry. This data involves a number of assumptions and limitations, and you are cautioned not to give undue weight to such estimates.

CONTACTS: For further information: Bristol Investor Relations Stefan Eftychiou 905 326 1888 ext 6 stefan@bristolir.com https://www.alphacognition.com/ Life Sciences Investor Forum John M. Viglotti SVP Corporate Services, Investor Access (212) 220-2221 johnv@lifesciencesinvestorforum.com

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[September 09, 2021] ITT Issues 2021 Sustainability Report Supplement; Continues Progress on Environmental, Social and Governance Priorities

September 9, 2021-- ITT Inc. (NYSE: ITT (News - Alert) ) has released Sustainability ITT - 2021 Supplement, its second supplement to Sustainability ITT 2019, the Company's comprehensive report on its progress toward environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments. This supplement details ITT's 2020 advances toward integrating environmental stewardship and positive social impact across all operations, teams, and communities. Priorities include health and safety, diversity, equality and inclusiveness of its workforce, and environmental footprint, among others. Key highlights from 2020 include: 25 percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

23 percent less waste sent to landfills

25 percent fewer workplace incidents

Divestiture of all pending and future legacy asbestos liabilities "We continue to integrate ESG practices into our day-to-day operations, while maintaining our focus on the health of our people, our business and our financials," said Luca Savi, Chief Executive Officer and President. "In what was an extraordinarily challenging year for everyone, our team demonstrated its commitment to having ITT make the world a better place for all stakeholders. While I am pleased with our progress thus far, it is clear we have much more to do on our journey to becoming a more sustainable ITT." The report, Sustainability ITT - 2021 Supplement, covers initiatives and other information over three years with a focus on 2020 results. It incorporates 2020 metrics for all global ITT locations. Several guidelines and measurement framworks, including those provided by the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), informed the scope of this report. To learn more about ITT's commitments to creating a more sustainable and equitable environment, please see Sustainability ITT 2019.



About ITT ITT is a diversified leading manufacturer of highly engineered critical components and customized technology solutions for the energy, transportation, and industrial markets. Building on its heritage of innovation, ITT partners with its customers to deliver enduring solutions to the key industries that underpin our modern way of life. ITT is headquartered in White Plains, NY, with employees in more than 35 countries and sales in approximately 125 countries. The company generated 2020 revenues of $2.5 billion. For more information, visit www.itt.com.

Forward-Looking Statements In this report, "ITT," "we," "our," and "us" refer to ITT Inc., an Indiana corporation and its wholly owned subsidiaries, except as otherwise indicated or as the context otherwise requires. In addition, this report contains "forward-looking statements," intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather represent only a belief regarding future events based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions, and projections about our business, future financial results, and the industry in which we operate, and other legal, regulatory, and economic developments. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, references to guidance, future strategic plans, and other statements that describe the company's business strategy, outlook, objectives, plans, intentions or goals, and any discussion of future operating or financial performance. We use words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "intend," "plan," "believe," "target," "future," "may," "will," "could," "should," "potential," "continue," "guidance," and other similar expressions to identify such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are uncertain and to some extent unpredictable and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in, or reasonably inferred from, such forward-looking statements. Where in any forward-looking statement we express an expectation or belief as to future results or events, such expectation or belief is based on current plans and expectations of our management, expressed in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. However, there can be no assurance that the expectation or belief will occur or that anticipated results will be achieved or accomplished. More information on factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated is included in the Risk Factors section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and other documents filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this report speak only as of the date hereof. We undertake no obligation (and expressly disclaim any obligation) to update any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005090/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Blackline Safety and Vlahi Systems Partner to Improve Gas Plume Monitoring and Emergency Response

Blackline Safety Corp. (TSX: BLN), a global leader of gas detection and connected safety solutions, today announced it has partnered with Houston-based Vlahi Systems, provider of cloud-hosted, sensor driven gas plume dispersion modelling software. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005393/en/ Blackline Safety partners with Vlahi Systems to bring improvements to the gas plume monitoring and emergency response sector (Photo: Business Wire) Optimizing chemical release monitoring and response through improved accuracy of modeling Through the partnership, Vlahi will integrate the real-time, location-enabled data from Blackline's G7 EXO portable area gas monitors into their web- and smartphone-based CERES plume modelling software. The solution is ideal for managing scenarios related to chemical release and gas clouds that can harm personnel and surrounding communities, or trigger fires or explosions. Using G7 EXO gas readings, CERES can automate and deliver the most accurate, up-to-date mapping of a gas plume, based on real-world conditions, to assist emergency personnel in their response. "Our partnership with Vlahi is a great example of how our connected safety solutions can help leading enterprises manage their risk and prepare to respond to the unexpected release of chemicals and gas," said Cody Slater, CEO and Chair for Blackline Safety. "With 100-day battery life, our G7 EXO area gas monitors continuously stream location-enabled gas readings and alerts to the Blackline Cloud - and now CERES - to provide the ultimate visibility into a worksite. This partnership will help our clients better manage their response to keep workers and communities saf."



"Integrating Blackline sensors with CERES Sensor Driven Plume, bridges the gap of unknowns involved with plume modeling and makes it accessible to a wider range of emergency responders and situations," said Cristian Stochina, Founder and Managing Partner of Vlahi Systems. "Combining CERES with Blackline's direct-to-cloud communication - with no configuration required - you get the first anytime, anywhere, any device system that can go beyond point-sensor values in current time and predict an integrated threat area and where that threat is headed."

Blackline has opened an early access program for Blackline clients and interested businesses adopters to get first-hand experience with CERES cloud software, powered with real-time environmental readings streamed from cloud-connected G7 EXO area gas monitors. Blackline will showcase CERES sensor driven plume dispersion software with G7 EXO real-time gas readings in booth 2311 at the NSC Congress & Expo in Orlando, from Oct 11-13, 2021. About Vlahi Systems Vlahi Systems LLC, is a Houston-based technology company with a mission to deliver the most cost effective and feature-rich emergency response solutions to planners, responders, chemical plants, government organizations and the transportation industry. With thousands of users distributed across more than 100 countries, CERES (Chemical Emergency Response E-Service) is a software-as-a-service application, accessible through web and smart-device apps. CERES delivers an industry-leading user experience for planning, responding to, and analyzing chemical, fire and explosion events - anytime, anywhere and on any device, before, during or after a chemical incident. For more information, visit www.vlahi.com. About Blackline Safety Blackline Safety is a global connected safety leader that helps to ensure every worker gets their job done and returns home safely each day. Blackline provides wearable safety technology, personal and area gas monitoring, cloud-connected software and data analytics to meet demanding safety challenges and increase productivity of organizations with coverage in more than 100 countries. Blackline Safety wearables provide a lifeline to tens of thousands of men and women, having reported over 155 billion data-points and initiated over five million emergency responses. Armed with cellular and satellite connectivity, we ensure that help is never too far away. For more information, visit www.BlacklineSafety.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005393/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Richardson RFPD Announces Global Distribution Franchise Agreement with Red Pitaya

Richardson (News - Alert) RFPD, an Arrow Electronics company, today announced it has entered into a global franchise distribution agreement with Red Pitaya, a manufacturer of multifunction, open-source software-defined lab instruments. Under the agreement, Richardson RFPD is a global distributor for Red Pitaya's lineup of versatile, reconfigurable instruments that can replace other, more expensive lab instruments. Red Pitaya's all-in-one boards can replace oscilloscope and signal generators, LCR meters, spectrum analyzers, logic analyzers, bode analyzers and vector network analyzers. The all-in-one boards are offered in kits that target the automotive, aerospace, telecommunications and medical industries, academia and research, as well as radio amateurs, and include accessories like oscilloscope probes, SD cards, ethernet cables and power supply cords. "Red Pitaya's flagship STEMlab and other all-in-one boards are versatile additions to Richardson RFPD's lineup of tools for design engineers," said Rafael R. Salmi, Ph.D., Richardson RFPD's president. "These products support a wide range of use cases, from instrumentation to communication, software-defined radio, and many data acquisition applications." "Development teams often need expensive and hard-to-access tools, the use of which is limited by expensive software licenses and the 'black-box' principle that prevents the user from modifying and repairing software," said Mateja Lampe Rupnik, Red Pitaya's CEO. "We are excited that-together with Richardson RFPD-we will help solve these problems. Red Pitaya's boards are affordable and offer exceptional performance, and because the boards are open-source, there is no license fee, and theuser can customize it to their needs."



Additional information is available at the Red Pitaya storefront webpage. About Richardson RFPD

Richardson RFPD, an Arrow Electronics (News - Alert) company, is a global leader in the RF, wireless, IoT and power technologies markets. It brings relationships with many of the industry's top radio frequency and power component suppliers. Whether it's designing components or engineering complete solutions, Richardson RFPD's worldwide design centers and technical sales team provide comprehensive support for customers' go-to-market strategy, from prototype to production. More information is available online at www.richardsonrfpd.com. Follow Richardson RFPD on Twitter (News - Alert) at www.twitter.com/Richardson_RFPD. To browse and subscribe to Richardson RFPD's email newsletters, click here. About Red Pitaya Red Pitaya is leading a revolution in the electronics industry, pioneering the move from closed, fixed-functionality instruments to multifunction, open-source software-defined instruments that are able to satisfy a broad spectrum of customers in different market segments. In 2013, the idea of Red Pitaya was born out of a simple need for a versatile reconfigurable instrument that could replace other expensive lab instruments. The group of engineers who developed Red Pitaya had a few main ideas they were chasing: an open-source instrument, a hand-held device, a variety of free applications with the ability to develop more, and an affordable price with non-negotiable performance. Red Pitaya's wide product portfolio can satisfy the needs of engineers in many different segments such as automotive, telecommunications, aerospace and medical. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005649/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Bitwise Launches World's First "Ex Bitcoin" Crypto Index Fund

Bitwise Asset Management, the world's largest crypto index fund manager with over $1.3 billion in AUM,1 today announced the launch of the Bitwise 10 ex Bitcoin Crypto Index Fund. The new fund is the world's first large-cap crypto index fund to provide exposure to the exciting developments taking place in the cryptomarket beyond bitcoin. Bitcoin's share of the total market capitalization of the crypto space has fallen from 69% to 42% in the past year, as other assets like Ethereum, Cardano and Solana have grown in size and importance.2 The Bitwise 10 ex Bitcoin Crypto Index Fund holds nine of the 10 cryptocurrencies that make up its $1+ billion3 flagship Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund (OTCQX: BITW), excluding bitcoin. These assets range in market capitalization from $8 billion to $427 billion,4 and include many of the assets that play a foundational role in the rapidly emerging DeFi, smart contract, and NFT ecosystems. As of August 31, 2021, the new Bitwise 10 ex Bitcoin Large Cap Crypto Index constituents were5: Ethereum (ETH): 68.53%

Cardano (ADA): 15.43%

Solana (SOL): 5.49%

Bitcoin Cash (BCH): 2.09%

Chainlink (LINK): 2.08%

Litecoin (LTC): 1.97%

Uniswap (UNI): 1.50%

Polygon (MATIC): 1.50%

Stellar (XLM): 1.40% "This launch is being driven by customer demand," said Matt Hougan, Chief Investment Officer of Bitwise Asset Management. "Many investors today have exposure to bitcoin but are excited by the dynamic developments taking place around other assets. That's particularly true for professional investors, who value the utility these assets offer. This new fund allows investors to complement their existing bitcoin exposure with a professionally managed solution that captures other large-cap cryptoassets." The fund seeks to track the Bitwise 10 ex Bitcoin Large Cap Crypto Index, which is overseen by the Bitwise Crypto Index Committee with support from the Bitwise Crypto Index Advisory Board, and follows a formal methodology. All assets are subject to suitability screening around liquidity, custody, and regulatory risks, among other topics. The fund is weighted by market cap. The fund's assets are custodied with Coinbase Custody Trst Company, LLC, the world's largest crypto custodian. The new fund is available to accredited investors as a private placement, and comes in two share classes: Investor Shares, which have a $25,000 minimum and charge a 2.5% expense ratio, and Institutional Shares, which have a $1,000,000 minimum and charge a 2.0% expense ratio. Neither share class charges a performance fee.



Bitwise manages a growing suite of investment funds designed to simplify access to the full range of opportunities in the crypto space. These include the Bitwise 10 Crypto Index Fund (OTCQX: BITW), the world's largest and longest-running crypto index fund; the Bitwise DeFi Crypto Index Fund, the world's first DeFi index fund; and single-asset crypto funds offering exposure to bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Uniswap (UNI), and Aave (AAVE). The firm focuses on partnering with investment professionals, and today serves RIAs, financial advisors, multifamily offices, high net worth individuals, hedge funds, and other institutional investors.

1 Data as of August 31, 2021.

2 Source (News - Alert) : TradingView. Data as of August 31, 2021.

3 Assets under management. Data as of August 31, 2021.

4 Source: CoinGecko. Data as of August 31, 2021.

5 Constituents may not add to 100% due to rounding. ABOUT BITWISE ASSET MANAGEMENT Based in San Francisco, Bitwise is one of the largest and fastest-growing cryptoasset managers. As of August 31, 2021, Bitwise managed over $1.3 billion across an expanding suite of investment solutions. The firm is known for managing the world's largest crypto index fund (OTCQX: BITW) and pioneering products spanning bitcoin, Ethereum, DeFi, and crypto-focused equity indexes. Bitwise focuses on partnering with financial advisors and investment professionals to provide quality education and research. The team at Bitwise combines expertise in technology with decades of experience in traditional asset management and indexing, coming from firms including BlackRock, Blackstone, Facebook and Google (News - Alert) , as well as the U.S. Attorney's Office. Bitwise is backed by leading institutional investors and asset management executives, and has been profiled in Institutional Investor, CNBC, Barron's, Bloomberg (News - Alert) and The Wall Street Journal. RISK DISCLOSURE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION Carefully consider the investment objectives, risk factors, and charges and expenses of any Bitwise investment product before investing. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee or assurance that the methodology used by Bitwise or any of the Bitwise investment products will result in any Bitwise investment product achieving positive investment returns or outperforming other investment products. There is no guarantee or assurance that an investor's investment objectives will be met through an investment into any Bitwise investment product, and an investor may lose money. Investors in any Bitwise investment product should be willing to accept a high degree of volatility in its price and the possibility of significant losses including the complete loss of the investment. Bitwise investment products involve a substantial degree of risk and are available only to institutional and individual accredited investors. Certain of the Bitwise investment products may be subject to the risks associated with investing in cryptoassets, including cryptocurrencies and crypto tokens. Because cryptoassets are a new technological innovation with a limited history, they are a highly speculative asset. Future regulatory actions or policies may limit the ability to sell, exchange or use a cryptoasset. The price of a cryptoasset may be impacted by the transactions of a small number of holders of such cryptoasset. Cryptoassets may decline in popularity, acceptance or use, which may impact their price. The technology relating to cryptoassets and blockchain is new and developing. Currently, there are a limited number of publicly listed or quoted companies for which cryptoassets and blockchain technology represent an attributable and significant revenue stream. The opinions expressed herein are intended to provide insight or education and are not intended as individual investment advice. Bitwise does not represent that this information is accurate and complete and it should not be relied upon as such. This material represents an assessment of the market environment at a specific time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. This information should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice regarding the funds or any security in particular. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Diversification may not protect against market risk. Diversification does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market. Bitwise may attempt to have shares of its investment products quoted on a secondary market. However, there is no guarantee this will be successful. Although the shares of certain Bitwise investment products have been approved for trading on a secondary market, investors in any other Bitwise investment product should not assume that the shares will ever obtain such an approval due to a variety of factors, including questions that regulators such as the SEC (News - Alert) , FINRA or other regulatory bodies may have regarding the investment product. Shareholders of such investment product should be prepared to bear the risk of investment in the shares indefinitely. This press release is not an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation would be illegal, nor shall there be any sale of any security in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. The offer and sale of these investment products have not been registered with or approved or disapproved of by the Securities and Exchange Commission or the securities commission or regulatory authority of any state or foreign jurisdiction. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005677/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Study abroad platform Leap raises $ 55 million in Series C round led by Owl Ventures

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- South Asia's largest overseas education company Leap, that runs LeapFinance and LeapScholar ( www.leapfinance.com and www.leapscholar.com ), has raised $55 million (INR 400 crore) in Series C funding led by Owl Ventures. The round also saw participation from Harvard Management Company, Inc, along with returning investors Jungle Ventures and Sequoia Capital India. The round comes less than 6 months after Leap raised its Series B which was led by Jungle Ventures, bringing the total equity capital raised by the startup to date, over $75 million. Leap is building the infrastructure to enable students to pursue international higher education. It runs a million-member strong community of international study aspirants in South Asia and has helped over 60,000 students in their study abroad journey over the last 18 months. Leap's product suite caters to the end-to-end needs of the community right from international test preparation, professional admissions counseling, student loans, international student bank accounts, foreign currency remittance, and international career guidance. Vaibhav Singh co-founder of Leap shared, "We have seen an unprecedented demand from students to move abroad this year as international borders open post-Covid. Our community-led approach coupled with a comprehensive product suite for all international student needs is truly differentiated. Not surprisingly we have seen explosive growth. We expect million-plus students from the region to move abroad in the next 12 months. This raise positions us perfectly to capture a lion's share of that demand. We are excited to continue to have the backing of marquee global investors who are aligned on our mission to democratize access to global education." Amit Patel, Managing Director, Owl Ventures said, "Leap is on the trajectory to become the preeminent study abroad platfom for students. The overseas education market is fragmented where there is no single one-stop solution. It can be very confusing for students to know where to begin preparation, what colleges they should target, and how they are going to afford to pay for their education. Leap is creating a comprehensive platform that addresses all of the needs of students. Owl Ventures is excited to deepen our partnership with Vaibhav, Arnav, and the Leap team to make studying abroad a reality for as many students as possible."



Leap will utilize the new capital infusion for multi-dimensional growth. The company intends to extend its service suite to students across SE Asia and MENA regions and enable them to pursue their global education aspirations across more than 20 destination countries. Further, Leap intends to broaden its product portfolio to offer more innovative solutions to international students. Some of the products in the pipeline include an international student credit card and insurance products. The company is also building a suite of offerings to help international students succeed on campus once they have made the move abroad.

Commenting on the company's plans, co-founder Arnav Kumar stated, " We are building the rails for global student mobility. Over the past year, we have built the product suite to cover an international students' lifecycle. We have also put in place a scalable playbook that is replicable across geographies. We will continue to build new product lines and deepen the existing ones to offer delightful experiences to international students across the globe." Amit Anand, Founding Partner of Jungle Ventures added, "Trust and Affordability is the key to unleash the full potential of the Study Abroad sector. The team at Leap has done a great job in leveraging the advancements in the ed-tech and fintech sectors, to create a predictable, transparent, and best-in-class experience for students looking to pursue overseas education and related financing. We are excited to increase our commitment significantly with this round and continue to help Arnav and Vaibhav build the largest platform globally serving international students." "Over the last 18 months since founding, the Leap team has been agile and has materially expanded their offering across multiple needs of students looking to study abroad, including financing, counselling, and test prep. The desire for Indian students to study abroad is stronger than ever and we believe that Leap, with its vertically integrated strategy, can become the leading platform enabling these students," said Ashish Agrawal, Managing Director at Sequoia Capital India. In August 2021, the company announced that it plans to hire 500 employees by the end of the year, in India and abroad, to fortify its product and technology stack. About Leap Founded in 2019, Leap ( leapfinance.com and leapscholar.com ) is the first online platform to offer end-to-end services for students pursuing international education and careers. Headquartered in San Francisco, with offices in Bangalore (India), Leap offers counselling services, visa services, education loans, and other financial products tailored for international students. About Owl Ventures Owl Ventures is the largest venture capital fund in the world focused on the education technology market with over $1.3 billion in assets under management. The Silicon Valley-based firm invests in the world's leading education technology companies across the education spectrum encompassing PreK-12, higher education, and the future of work (career mobility/professional learning). Owl Ventures has deep domain expertise and leverages a global network of Limited Partners, investors, and strategic partners to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses into transformative category-leading companies. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/study-abroad-platform-leap-raises--55-million-in-series-c-round-led-by-owl-ventures-301372566.html SOURCE Leap

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[September 09, 2021] Evisort Recognized as Overall Leader for Contract Management and CLM in G2 Crowd's Fall 2021 Report

Evisort, the leading provider of contract management and AI solutions, today announced that it has been recognized as an Overall Leader for both Contract Management and Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) categories within the G2 (News - Alert) .com, Inc's Fall 2021 Grid Report. Additionally, Evisort was also named as the provider of Best Support in the Mid-Market for both categories. G2 is the world's largest tech marketplace where businesses can learn about new technology. It plays a unique role in helping businesses make better software purchasing decisions by leveraging more than 1.4 million authentic, verified reviews. "We're honored to be named as Leaders for Contract Management and Contract Lifecycle Management on G2, as the recognition is based on the feedback and opinions of our users," said Jerry Ting, CEO and Co-Founder of Evisort. "Our customers' opinions and feedback are crucial to our success. We know our growth is dependent on delivering for them, and we'll continue to provide exceptional service and new innovations this year and beyond." Evisort's Contract Intelligence Platform is an end-to-end contract lifecycle management, analytics, and repository solution that protects, scales, and accelerates businesses. Evisort can automatically understand key provisions in contracts without needing extensive human review. It's built for legal, sourcing & procurement, sales, finance, and IT departments at growing companies and global enterprises such as Microsoft (News - Alert) , BNY Mellon, McKesson, and Keller Williams.



In addition to saving lawyers hours of review time per contract, Evisort's ability to create automatic insights into contracts is a true competitive advantage for its customers. The insights extracted provide companies the ability to quickly leverage their contracts to pivot as new regulations, world events, or business directions arise without slowing down or turning to outside counsel. The platform provides companies the ability to centralize their current contracts, standardize workflows, accelerate contract creation, and automatically create data from existing contracts, all without the need for coding or programming. About Evisort

Founded in 2016 by Harvard Law and MIT (News - Alert) alumni, Evisort is the leading provider of contract management and AI technology for legal, procurement, sales, finance, and IT teams. Evisort's Contract Intelligence Platform delivers rapid ROI in 30 days by centralizing contracts with no migration, using AI to track and search metadata and provisions without manual data entry, and enabling teams to draft, redline, approve, sign, report on, and renew contracts. Evisort is headquartered in Silicon Valley and backed by leading strategic and institutional investors including General Atlantic, Vertex (News - Alert) Ventures, M12 ( Microsoft's venture fund), Amity Ventures, Village Global, and Serra Ventures. Learn more by visiting the website and follow @Evisort on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. About G2 Founded in 2012, G2 is the world's largest tech marketplace where businesses can discover, review, and manage the technology they need to reach their potential. With more than 1.4 million real, verified reviews, G2 plays a unique role in helping businesses make software purchasing decisions. Leveraging peer reviews, users can get authentic feedback from real users across several categories to make better technology decisions. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005666/en/

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[September 09, 2021] FINEOS Co-Sponsors First Ever GroupTech Connect: Untangling the Group Insurance Value Chain for 2030

FINEOS Corporation (ASX:FCL) today announced its co-sponsorship with Vericred, of the inaugural GroupTech Connect, a unique event that will host a conversation around resolving the growing complexity of the Group Benefits insurance value chain. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005041/en/ As the global leader of Employee Benefits core administration systems, FINEOS is well acquainted with the partnerships and various players across the Group Benefits insurance value chain. As the industry looks to the future and prepares for 2030, the next few years will be crucial to insurers seeking to keep/grow market share in the Group Benefits business as they radically change product and distribution models and the underlying technology that supports those models. GroupTech Connect provides a forum for industry leaders to explore the technology across the Group Benefit ecosystem, core systems, external distribution, and tech partners to meet the increasing challenges reshaping the Group Benefit value chain landscape. FINEOS and Vericred, the platform powering digital quote-to-card experiences in health insurance and benefits, have partnered to bring together a rich lineup of speakers across brokers, core admin systems, carriers, insurtechs and more. Speakers will share the unique challenges within the insurance value chain today and how they are working to meet the challenges of 2030, starting with keynote speaker, Amy Friedrich - President of US Insurance Solutions at Principal.



The agenda for GroupTech Connect will feature FINEOS and Vericred executives and Group Benefit insurance industry experts to include: Keynote Speaker - Amy Friedrich, President of US Insurance Solutions at Principal. Making Insurance More Human: Now and in the Future

Panel Session - A Look Ahead: The Future of Distribution in Health and Benefits in 2030 featuring panelists: Beata Rogala (Centro Benefits), Jimson Tharayil (Acrisure [Suvaun]), Jared Carlson (Assurity Life). Moderated by Michael Levin (Vericred)

Panel Session - Building a Core Platform for Employee Benefits Success in 2030 featuring panelists: Scott Morgan (Dearborn Group), Meredith Barnes-Cook (Ushur), and Megan Holstein Esq. (FINEOS). Moderated by Chuck Johnston (FINEOS)

Panel Session - The Journey to Connectivity: Standards, Middleware or Point Solutions? featuring panelists: David Reid (Ease), Dan Langevin (Vericred), S. Yousef Hashimi (EY) and Jennifer Daniel (Aflac). Moderated by Jason T. Andrew (FINEOS)

Townhall discussion with live Q&A

Networking cocktail hour Commenting on the FINEOS sponsorship of GroupTech Connect, FINEOS CMO Chuck Johnston said, "We're pleased to co-sponsor the first such event for the Group Benefits space that brings great minds together to discuss the complexity of the insurance value chain. Our key focus will be on how insurance carriers and technology providers can come together to take a deep look at redesigning the value chain and how purpose-built technology and out of the box thinking can impact the Group Benefits industry in 2030 and beyond."

"It's hard to think of a better sponsor for GroupTech Connect than FINEOS," says Jay Weintraub, CEO and Co-founder of InsureTech Connect. "This is the first year for GroupTech Connect, which takes place Monday, October 4th between 1pm and 6pm PT; and as our goal with GroupTech Connect is to encourage collaboration between Group insurers and insurtechs, we are thrilled to have a partner known for their collaborative spirit and work driving digital transformation in the insurance space." InsureTech Connect is the world's largest insurtech event, offering unparalleled access to the most comprehensive gathering of tech entrepreneurs, investors, and insurance industry incumbents. Access to GroupTech Connect is limited to InsureTech Connect attendees as a pre-conference offering which will take place in-person on October 4 2021, at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas prior to InsureTech Connect. Registration is now open for both events. To learn more, visit https://www.fineos.com/events/grouptech-connect-2021/. About FINEOS Corporation FINEOS is a leading provider of core systems for life, accident and health insurers globally with 7 of the 10 largest group life and health carriers in the US as well as 6 of the largest life insurers in Australia. With employees and offices throughout the world, FINEOS continues to scale rapidly, working with innovative progressive insurers in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. The FINEOS Platform provides core administration capabilities including absence management, billing, claims, payments, policy administration, provider management and new business and underwriting; all of which are configurable to operate independently or as FINEOS AdminSuite, an end-to-end core administration suite. For more information, visit www.FINEOS.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005041/en/

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[September 09, 2021]

CGTN: China, UK to strengthen cooperation on climate change, biodiversity

BEIJING, Sept. 9, 2021 /CNW/ -- China and the UK have expressed willingness to strengthen dialogue and cooperation in tackling global climate change and achieve positive results at the upcoming United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference and the Global Biodiversity Summit.

Chinese Vice Premier Han Zheng and Alok Sharma, president-designate of the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26), made the assurance during a video meeting on Tuesday.

COP26 will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in November, while the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Conention on Biological Diversity (COP15) will be held in south China's Kunming City online in October 2021 and offline in October 2022.







Han stressed that global solidarity and cooperation are needed to tackle climate change.

Expressing expectations for COP26, Han hopes that the climate conference will send a strong political signal for firmly upholding multilateralism, respecting multilateral rules and promoting actions. He also expects that the delegates at COP26 will actively transform climate goals into specific policies and actions, and complete the negotiations to meet the Paris Agreement.

Both countries have maintained good cooperation in dealing with climate change and have set stronger carbon emission reduction targets to meet carbon neutrality, Han said, also calling both sides to exploit their advantages and strengthen dialogue related to climate change.

China, which holds the presidency of COP15, is willing to work with the UK to promote the success of the two conferences, Han said.

Hailing China's efforts in tackling climate change, Sharma said the UK looks forward to expanding exchanges and cooperation in areas such as climate finance, energy and carbon trading and is willing to strengthen dialogue and coordination with China to achieve positive outcomes at COP26 and COP15.

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SOURCE CGTN
[September 09, 2021] Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Building Advisor Wins FacilitiesNet.com Vision Award for Analytics & Management Software

Schneider Electric, the global leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, today announced its recognition in the FacilitiesNet.com Vision Awards. In a year of record-breaking Vision Awards entries, an independent panel of judges chose Schneider Electric's (News - Alert) EcoStruxure Building Advisor as a winner in the Analytics & Management Software category. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005738/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Building Advisor is a suite of analytic monitoring services that unlocks operational performance and remote maintenance of buildings. The solution provides actionable insights into a building's operations and identifies areas of improvement and faults to help optimize a building's inefficiencies. FacilitiesNet.com is the digital home for readers of Building Operating Management and Facility Maintenance Decisions magazines visited by an average of 135,000 facility professionals a month ranging from building owners, facility executives, operation heads, maintenance engineers. The Vision Awards honor innovation and excellence in products contributing to the efficient, profitable operations and management of institutional and commercial buildings in the United States "We are honored to be recognized by FacilitiesNet in its 2021 awards program," said Manish Kumar, SVP of Digital Buildings, Schneider Electric. "EcoStruxure Building Advisor leverages the latest technological advancements, ensuring facilities and building managers are equipped with the most innovative tools to better enhance their buildings' operations. There has never been a more critical time to invest in building management as mountin regulatory, energy and occupant well-being pressures push building efficiency and resiliency to the forefront."



Kumar continued, "With the implementation of EcoStruxure Building Advisor, facilities and building managers can shift from the conventional approach of reactive, scheduled, and on-site maintenance to a more efficient and effective approach of leveraging remote, automated, continuous monitoring, and condition-based maintenance. Enterprise customers and those with multiple buildings with diverse BMS systems have particularly benefited from the open, BMS agnostic, digital twin technology and global outreach of Schneider Electric to standardize facility operations and maintenance with EcoStruxure Building Advisor." With EcoStruxure Building Advisor, building managers are able to respond more proactively with data-driven decisions to reduce maintenance costs, improve asset value, increase occupant satisfaction, and create more sustainable and energy-efficient buildings. Based on customer results, Schneider Electric has reported a 20% reduction in energy cost to organizations leveraging EcoStruxure Building Advisor, achieving over $20 million in cost avoidance attributable to energy savings and reducing unplanned maintenance costs.

In addition to these cost savings, EcoStruxure Building Advisor also provides: More accurate analysis, diagnoses, and recommendations: Using a Digital Twin (News - Alert) approach for HVAC Equipment & Systems makes the accuracy of analysis, detailed diagnosis, and recommendation of corrective actions far superior when compared to human skill-based or rules-based software. This Digital Twin is continuously improved based on information from 200,000 HVAC equipment connected in eight different building categories across 20 countries.

Using a Digital Twin (News - Alert) approach for HVAC Equipment & Systems makes the accuracy of analysis, detailed diagnosis, and recommendation of corrective actions far superior when compared to human skill-based or rules-based software. This Digital Twin is continuously improved based on information from 200,000 HVAC equipment connected in eight different building categories across 20 countries. Increased efficiency and productivity: Leveraging a hybrid delivery model of remote HVAC experts and local execution teams, EcoStruxure Building Advisor has enabled completion of over 16,000 tasks, which has saved approximately 260,000 hours of on-site service engineer time to detect, diagnose and create a maintenance ticket.

Leveraging a hybrid delivery model of remote HVAC experts and local execution teams, EcoStruxure Building Advisor has enabled completion of over 16,000 tasks, which has saved approximately 260,000 hours of on-site service engineer time to detect, diagnose and create a maintenance ticket. Improved tenant satisfaction: EcoStruxure Building Advisor helps achieve compliance to ISO50001 standards or sustainability goals based on energy efficiency improvements, improving indoor air quality to make buildings healthier for occupants in the building. Organizations across the world and buildings in life-sciences, healthcare, universities, offices, airports, stadiums use Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Building Advisor to ensure facilities and buildings are safe, reliable, energy-efficient, and sustainable. Boston Scientific, University of Iowa, among many others, have achieved success to meet sustainability goals, claim utility incentives, and improve indoor air quality creating healthier buildings for occupants. If you're interested in learning more about Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Building Advisor, visit here. About Schneider Electric Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On. Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency. We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries. We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive and Empowered values. www.se.com Discover Life Is On Follow us on: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Blog Hashtags: #LifeIsOn #FacilitiesNet2021Awards #EcoStruxure #EcoStruxureBuildingAdvisor View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005738/en/

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[September 09, 2021] ACORE Capital Hires Alternative Investments and Capital Markets Professional Jennifer Wildeman as Managing Director

ACORE Capital, LP ("ACORE"), one of the largest credit managers focused on commercial real estate lending, is pleased to announce that alternative investments and capital markets professional Jennifer Wildeman has joined the firm as Managing Director. In this role, Wildeman will work to grow and diversify ACORE's investment management platform. She will report to Michael Romo, Senior Managing Director and Head of Capital Raising. Wildeman brings to ACORE expertise in portfolio construction, business development and investor relations. She joins the firm from Aksia, a specialist alternative investment research and portfolio advisory firm, where she served as a Senior Portfolio Advisor. In this role, Wildeman was a trusted advisor to a wide range of institutional investors and responsible for sourcing and advising on private investment opportunities with a focus on private credit. Wildeman will leverage her vast investor network - which includes pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations and healthcare organizations - to advance ACORE's capital raising initiatives. "Having worked closely with Jenn in different roles over the years, I have always been impressed by her unique capabilities," said Romo. "She's an incredible talent who has established herself as one of the most trusted private credit advisors to istitutions. We look forward to leveraging Jenn's expertise, client relationships and understanding of portfolio construction to expand ACORE's universe of investors as we scale our investment management platform and introduce new solutions."



Prior to Aksia, Wildeman was a member of the Investment Research Group within PNC's (News - Alert) Asset Management Group with a focus on alternative investment products including hedge funds, private market partnerships, and funds of funds. She was active in all aspects of investment manager due diligence in the alternative investment arena and was instrumental in the build out of PNC's single-strategy hedge fund and private markets platform. Before that, Wildeman worked with Gapstow Capital Partners, an alternative asset manager with funds investing in private equity funds, hedge funds, and privately structured deals in U.S. financial institutions. "The investment professionals at ACORE have been executing CRE debt strategies successfully for more than 25 years, positioning ACORE as a leader in today's CRE debt markets. I look forward to working with the team and my institutional network to develop new and innovative client solutions to advance the business and build out the platform," stated Wildeman.

Wildeman graduated from Columbia University in New York with a dual bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science. About ACORE Capital ACORE Capital, LP is a leading commercial real estate finance company and debt fund manager with approximately $17 billion of assets under management. ACORE is focused on originating, acquiring and managing first mortgages, B-notes, mezzanine debt and preferred equity throughout the United States. ACORE, which is an acronym for Alpha Commercial Real Estate, specializes in providing borrowers with customized financing solutions at competitive rates and flexible terms. For more information, please visit www.acorecapital.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005741/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and 260 Aircraft Achieve EASA Certification, Paving Way for European Deliveries

Textron Aviation today accomplished a major milestone with its newest twin-turboprop models, the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260, as both aircraft achieved European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification and will begin deliveries to customers throughout the region. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005747/en/ The Beechcraft King Air 260 (Photo: Business Wire) The Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260 are designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company. "EASA certification begins a whole new era for the Beechcraft King Air in Europe," said Tom Perry, vice president of Sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa. "The King Air has been the turboprop of choice throughout this region for more than five decades, and the new 260 and 360 will build on that legendary reputation. We have incorporated innovative and next generation technologies that enhance the flying experience for an already proven aircraft." Renowned for their versatility and reliability, King Air turboprops have been a popular choice across Europe with more than 460 aircraft throughout the region. Nearly half of all King Airs in Europe are owned and operated in France, Germany and the United Kingdom. A typical King Air 360 flight with four passengers and a single pilot has a maximum range of 3,345 km (1,806 nautical miles), allowing it to complete flights such as London to Athens or Frankfurt to Moscow without stopping to refuel. Similarly, the King Air 260 has a maximum range of 3,185 km (1,720 nautical miles), allowing four passengers and a single pilot to take complete flights such as Rome to Madrid or Paris to Stockholm without refueling. About the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and 260 The King Air 360/360ER and 260 models represent the next generation of the legendary King Air turboprop family, building on its reputation of versatility and reliaility. The aircraft offer the latest technological advancements in the cockpit along with providing additional comfort to the passenger experience.



The King Air 360/360ER turboprop features the addition of the Innovative Solutions & Support (News - Alert) (IS&S) ThrustSense Autothrottle. The autothrottle supports pilots in their critical mission of delivering people or cargo by automatically managing engine power from the takeoff roll through the climb, cruise, descent, and go-around phases of flight. Another key addition to the cockpit is a digital pressurization controller, which automatically schedules cabin pressurization during both climb and descent, reducing pilot workload and increasing overall passenger comfort. The aircraft also has a lower cabin altitude at the aircraft's certified ceiling of 35,000 feet, providing greater comfort for passengers, especially during longer flights.

The King Air 360 cabin, meanwhile, offers a stunning new look with craftsman-built cabinetry, partitions and side ledges, and high-quality finishes, along with a selection of six interior schemes. Other amenities that come standard on the King Air 360 include pull-out work tables, power outlets, USB charging stations and a private aft lavatory. The King Air 260 is also equipped with the IS&S ThrustSense Autothrottle system, as well as digital cabin pressurization. The aircraft now also features the Collins Multi-Scan RTA-4112 weather radar, providing pilots with a fully automatic system that is optimized to detect short, mid and long-range weather. The new King Air turboprops were introduced in 2020, with the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER achieving U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in October 2020 and the King Air 260 in March 2021. King Air Leadership Nearly 7,600 Beechcraft King Air turboprops have been delivered to customers around the world since 1964, making it the best-selling business turboprop family in the world. The worldwide fleet has surpassed 62 million flight hours in its 57 years, serving roles in all branches of the U.S. military and flying both commercial and special mission roles around the world. About Textron Aviation We inspire the journey of flight. For more than 90 years, Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, has empowered our collective talent across the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands to design and deliver the best aviation experience for our customers. With a range that includes everything from business jets, turboprops, and high-performance pistons, to special mission, military trainer and defense products, Textron Aviation has the most versatile and comprehensive aviation product portfolio in the world and a workforce that has produced more than half of all general aviation aircraft worldwide. Customers in more than 170 countries rely on our legendary performance, reliability and versatility, along with our trusted global customer service network, for affordable and flexible flight. For more information, visit www.txtav.com | www.defense.txtav.com | www.scorpionjet.com. About Textron Inc. Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defense, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Hawker, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Arctic Cat, Textron Systems, and TRU Simulation + Training. For more information, visit: www.textron.com. Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking statements which may project revenues or describe strategies, goals, outlook or other non-historical matters; these statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, changes in aircraft delivery schedules or cancellations or deferrals of orders. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005747/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Paul J. Napoli and Hunter J. Shkolnik Honored by Best Lawyers in America

Best Lawyers in America has honored five attorneys at Napoli Shkolnik PLLC as Best Lawyers in the areas of Mass Tort Litigation/Class Actions - Plaintiffs, Personal Liability Litigation - Plaintiffs, Product Liability - Plaintiffs, and Medical Malpractice Law - Plaintiffs. Best Lawyers in America selects its honorees based on peer voting, recognizing attorneys whose quality of work and ethical standards earn them the respect of their colleagues. Napoli Shkolnik is a nationally recognized law firm that has built an impressive track record by bringing a client-focused approach to complex, often large-scale litigation, largely in the areas of pharmaceutical and medical malpractice, environmental law, personal injury, and product liability. Headquartered in New York, the firm has additional offices across the United States, affording the resources and reach to effectively pursue difficult cases and win favorable outcomes for its clients. Paul J. Napoli, Of Counsel to Napoli Shkolnik, has focused on mass tort litigation for most of his 25-year professional career, obtaining significant settlements for his clients. Along with civil rights attorney Ben Crump, Mr. Napoli is currently leading a lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson, alleging that the company targeted women of color in its marketing of potentially unsafe products. A tireless advocate for discriminatory issues, Mr. Napoli recently published The Price of Profiling, an article to raise awareness about racially biased marketing.



Hunter J. Shkolnik is a distinguished attorney who leads discovery and trial teams on mass tort pharmaceutical and medical device litigation for the firm, and who concentrates on significant personal injury cases in the area of drug, automobile, aviation, and heavy truck product liability. He is currently Counsel for Nassau County, in the New York Opioid Jury Trial, where the state of New York along with Long Island counties has brought legal action against some of the largest opioid manufacturers and distributors. Nicholas R. Farnolo primarily works on product liability litigation, handling all phases of significant civil actions from intake to settlement or trial. He has successfully represented numerous clients in the areas of mass tort, class action, mechanical product liability, aviation, and commercial and personal injury.

Shayna E. Sacks handles mass tort litigation in the areas of pharmaceutical products liability, personal injury, medical malpractice, and medical device liability cases. She has amassed extensive experience in pharmaceutical malpractice litigation, serving in key plaintiffs' roles on landmark cases. Christopher L. Schnieders' emphasis is in complex pharmaceutical and medical device actions, professional liability suits, and personal injury litigation. He has worked extensively on nationally recognized pharmaceutical and medical device cases, including Paxil, Prozac, Transvaginal Mesh, Celebrex, and Yaz. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005758/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Manhattan West Appoints Reggie Tucker as Managing Director

Manhattan West, a modern investment company with a vertically integrated platform of in-house services and investments, is pleased to welcome Reginald "Reggie" Tucker to the Venture Capital team as Managing Director. Mr. Tucker brings more than a decade of experience to Manhattan West, as a capital allocator in both public and private markets, venture capital and private debt. He will bring his deep network of limited partner and general partner relationships to the organization as it builds out its venture capital division, complementing the firm's private equity, real estate and private debt investment strategies. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005191/en/ Mr. Tucker brings more than a decade of experience to Manhattan West, as a capital allocator in both public and private markets, venture capital and private debt. (Photo: Business Wire) Manhattan West's entrepreneurial, energetic culture, and unique geographic and relational access to the fast-growing venture capital ecosystem in Los Angeles attracted Mr. Tucker to the firm. He joins a highly skilled, well-credentialed team with deep experience as allocators, investors and entrepreneurs that have generated significant momentum in recent months. "I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to join an emerging, minority-owned firm like Manhattan West with such a depth of investment experience, talent and intellectual capital," said Reggie Tucker, Managing Director - Venture Capital, Manhattan West. "It's an honor to join a firm where my core values and investment philosophy align perfectly. We think differently as investors and as a team, and our collective support for each individual investment strategy across the others on the platform will enable us to build several disruptive, leading-edge funds."



Mr. Tucker will be charged with building Manhattan West's new venture capital growth opportunities fund leveraging his markets, fundamental investment decision making, creative investment structuring expertise and broad network. His first fund will allocate across the venture capital opportunity set through fund investments, co-investments and directs as well as strategic investments in emerging and high-growth opportunities primarily in early to growth-stage. "An investor of Reggie's caliber and background joining Manhattan West signifies a true inflection point for the firm," said Lorenzo Esparza, CEO, Manhattan West. "Not only is Reggie uniquely skilled at sourcing opportunities across both hard to access funds as well as new and emerging firms and co-investments, but he's truly a leader in his field. Above all that, he will elevate our culture and is the perfect fit for the next-generation investment platform that we are building at Manhattan West."

Prior to joining the team at Manhattan West, Mr. Tucker served as Managing Director at Orange (News - Alert) County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) for the past two-plus years where he had oversight of all private markets. There he had direct oversight over more than $500 million in capital commitments per year as he helped build out the private equity and venture capital programs and related co-investment strategy. He also contributed to sourcing and evaluating new, niche and non-traditional investments for the "unique strategies" asset class. Mr. Tucker has held investment leadership roles at the New York State Common Retirement Fund (NYCRF) and the State of Connecticut Retirement Plans and Trust Funds (CRPTF). Manhattan West's vertically integrated platform of services and investments represents the make-up of a next-generation investment firm. Its creative thinking and "get things done" environment empowers the team to focus on establishing a high degree of trust with its clients, partners and shareholders while executing on strategic initiatives through its pragmatic approach and delivering high-quality results. About Manhattan West Established in 2016, Manhattan West was launched by a group of financial professionals that departed J.P. Morgan. Immediately, a culture of financial innovation took root and the business has been evolving ever since. With the addition of highly skilled professionals from elite schools and impressive work pedigrees, Manhattan West services high net worth and ultra-high net worth clients and families. Manhattan West provides financial services including business management, tax, insurance and planning. Additionally, clients have access to alternative investments in real estate, venture capital, private equity and private debt instruments. To learn more about us, please visit manhattanwest.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005191/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Valued to be $10.5 Billion by 2026, Extruders Slated for Robust Growth Worldwide

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new market study published by Global Industry Analysts Inc., (GIA) the premier market research company, today released its report titled "Extruders - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics". The report presents fresh perspectives on opportunities and challenges in a significantly transformed post COVID-19 marketplace. FACTS AT A GLANCE

Edition: 8; Released: April 2021

Executive Pool: 443

Companies: 38 - Players covered include Battenfeld-Cincinnati Austria GmbH; Breyer GmbH; Clextral SAS; Coperion GmbH; Davis-Standard LLC; Everplast Machinery Co., Ltd.; Extrudex Kunststoffmaschinen GmbH; Gneuss Inc.; Jingu Group; Kabra ExtrusionTechnik Ltd.; KraussMaffei Group GmbH; Leistritz AG; Milacron Holdings Corp.; NFM Technologies; Presezzi Extrusion S.P.A; Reifenhauser GmbH & Co. Kg Maschinenfabrik; SML Maschinengesellschaft mbH; The Japan Steel Works Ltd.; Theysohn Group; Toshiba Machine Co., Ltd.; Useon (Nanjing) Extrusion Machinery Co., Ltd. and Others.

Coverage: All major geographies and key segments

Segments: End-Use Industry (Building & Construction, Transportation, Consumer Goods, Other End-Use Industries); Type (Single Screw, Twin Screw, Ram)

Geographies: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; Spain; Russia; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific (Australia; India; South Korea; and Rest of Asia-Pacific); Latin America (Argentina; Brazil; Mexico; and Rest of Latin America); Middle East (Iran; Israel; Saudi Arabia; United Arab Emirates; and Rest of Middle East); and Africa. Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass  Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry



ABSTRACT-

Global Extruders Market to Reach $10.5 Billion by 2026

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Extruders estimated at US$8.8 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$10.5 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 2.9% over the analysis period. Single Screw, one of the segments analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 2.8% CAGR and reach US$5.7 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Twin Screw segment is readjusted to a revised 2.5% CAGR for the next 7-year period. The U.S. Market is Estimated at $2.4 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $2.1 Billion by 2026

The Extruders market in the U.S. is estimated at US$2.4 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$2.1 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 5.4% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 0.8% and 2.2% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 1.4% CAGR.

Ram Segment to Reach US$3.8 Billion by the year 2026

In the global Ram segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 2.7% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$2.4 Billion in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$2.9 Billion by the close of the analysis period. China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. More MarketGlass Platform

Our MarketGlass Platform is a free full-stack knowledge center that is custom configurable to today`s busy business executive`s intelligence needs! This influencer driven interactive research platform is at the core of our primary research engagements and draws from unique perspectives of participating executives worldwide. Features include - enterprise-wide peer-to-peer collaborations; research program previews relevant to your company; 3.4 million domain expert profiles; competitive company profiles; interactive research modules; bespoke report generation; monitor market trends; competitive brands; create & publish blogs & podcasts using our primary and secondary content; track domain events worldwide; and much more. Client companies will have complete insider access to the project data stacks. Currently in use by 67,000+ domain experts worldwide.

Our platform is free for qualified executives and is accessible from our website www.StrategyR.com or via our just released mobile application on iOS or Android About Global Industry Analysts, Inc. & StrategyR

Global Industry Analysts, Inc., (www.strategyr.com) is a renowned market research publisher the world`s only influencer driven market research company. Proudly serving more than 42,000 clients from 36 countries, GIA is recognized for accurate forecasting of markets and industries for over 33 years. CONTACTS:

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Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

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Info411@strategyr.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/valued-to-be-10-5-billion-by-2026--extruders-slated-for-robust-growth-worldwide-301372650.html SOURCE Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

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[September 09, 2021] A $97.2 Billion Global Opportunity for Fitness Bands by 2026 - New Research from StrategyR

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new market study published by Global Industry Analysts Inc., (GIA) the premier market research company, today released its report titled "Fitness Bands - Global Market Trajectory & Analytics". The report presents fresh perspectives on opportunities and challenges in a significantly transformed post COVID-19 marketplace. FACTS AT A GLANCE

Edition: 9; Released: April 2021

Executive Pool: 428

Companies: 16 - Players covered include Fitbit, Inc.; Garmin Ltd.; Healbe Corp.; iFit; iHealth Lab, Inc.; Jawbone; Jaybird; Misfit, Inc.; Movable; Nautilus, Inc.; Polar Electro Oy; Runtastic GmbH; Xiaomi, Inc. and Others.

Coverage: All major geographies and key segments

Segments: Segment (Fitness Bands, Smartwatch, Other Segments)

Geographies: World; United States; Canada; Japan; China; Europe (France; Germany; Italy; United Kingdom; and Rest of Europe); Asia-Pacific; Rest of World. Complimentary Project Preview - This is an ongoing global program. Preview our research program before you make a purchase decision. We are offering a complimentary access to qualified executives driving strategy, business development, sales & marketing, and product management roles at featured companies. Previews provide deep insider access to business trends; competitive brands; domain expert profiles; and market data templates and much more. You may also build your own bespoke report using our MarketGlass Platform which offers thousands of data bytes without an obligation to purchase our report. Preview Registry ABSTRACT-

Global Fitness Bands Market to Reach $97.2 Billion by 2026

Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the global market for Fitness Bands estimated at US$33.3 Billion in the year 2020, is projected to reach a revised size of US$97.2 Billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 19.4% over the analysis period. Fitness Bands, one of the segmens analyzed in the report, is projected to record a 23.1% CAGR and reach US$5.6 Billion by the end of the analysis period. After a thorough analysis of the business implications of the pandemic and its induced economic crisis, growth in the Smartwatch segment is readjusted to a revised 19.3% CAGR for the next 7-year period.



The U.S. Market is Estimated at $12.1 Billion in 2021, While China is Forecast to Reach $16.9 Billion by 2026

The Fitness Bands market in the U.S. is estimated at US$12.1 Billion in the year 2021. China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$16.9 Billion by the year 2026 trailing a CAGR of 18.6% over the analysis period. Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 17.3% and 16.7% respectively over the analysis period. Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at approximately 14.3% CAGR. Other Segments Segment to Reach US$1.5 Billion by the year 2026

In the global Other Segments segment, USA, Canada, Japan, China and Europe will drive the 15.7% CAGR estimated for this segment. These regional markets accounting for a combined market size of US$492.4 Million in the year 2020 will reach a projected size of US$1.4 Billion by the close of the analysis period. China will remain among the fastest growing in this cluster of regional markets. More

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Info411@strategyr.com View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-97-2-billion-global-opportunity-for-fitness-bands-by-2026---new-research-from-strategyr-301372325.html SOURCE Global Industry Analysts, Inc.

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Elvisridge Capital Completes Senior Secured Financing Program for FlashHouse.com

Michael Southard, Managing Director of Elvisridge Capital, has announced the completion of a senior secured financing program for FlashHouse. FlashHouse provides homeowners with instant access to liquidity in the sale of their homes, offering a simple and seamless real estate experience.

"The purpose of this senior secured financing program is to help FlashHouse continue to grow in the Ohio marketplace," Southard explained. "We find their business model to be a promising one that fills an important niche in the real estate industry."

Homeowners can request a cash offer on their home by visiting FlashHouse.com and answering a few questions about the features of their property. Th FlashHouse team of real estate professionals uses proprietary technology to provide the homeowner with a fair and accurate offer within 24 hours. Homeowners are under no obligation to accept the offer and can cancel at any time before closing. Those who accept the offer benefit from a streamlined digital-first experience, concierge-style customer service, flexible closing dates, and fast payment once the real estate transaction is complete.







"The team at Elvisridge has been wonderful to work with," said FlashHouse Co-Founder and CEO Stephen London. "They are great partners for growing companies, and we look forward to continued collaboration."

Elvisridge Capital is a private investment firm focused on purchasing entrepreneurial businesses in the sportfishing and landscape product industries. In addition, the company provides senior secured debt and mezzanine financing as growth capital to businesses in the Midwest and Southeastern United states.

For more information about Elvisridge Capital, visit www.elvisridgecapital.com, email info@elvisridgecapital.com, or call 216.678.9900.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005797/en/
[September 09, 2021] Mission Control Teams Up with University of Kentucky Esports

ST. LOUIS, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mission Control , a software platform that enables organizations to gather and grow their communities through gaming and esports has partnered with the University of Kentucky, an innovator in collegiate esports. Together, they will provide a comprehensive and relevant gaming and esports experience to students and the larger University of Kentucky gaming community. Mission Control has partnered with the University of Kentucky to provide a comprehensive gaming and esports experience "We are excited to partner with Mission Control and provide their platform to our growng gaming community," says Heath Price, Associate CIO, University of Kentucky, "As we welcome our students back to campus and showcase our new UKFCU Esports Lounge, this platform can help unite Big Blue Nation through a diversity of communities for both competitive and casual gamers."



Mission Control will provide University of Kentucky with a strategy and execution of a successful community esports program to enable current, future, and even former students to get involved in campus activities. Through the Mission Control platform, students will be able to seamlessly play, and communicate, with other gamers on campus, allowing them to foster relationships through their shared passion of video games. The University of Kentucky will begin using Mission Control in the fall semester to host recurring esports leagues in conjunction with other gaming programming. These leagues, and the conversations and interactions that they create, will serve to keep their students engaged, and socially active, year around.

ABOUT MISSION CONTROL

Mission Control is a platform for gathering and growing community using recreational esports, similar to a local adult softball league or college intramurals  just with video games. Organizations  whether a community group, college, LAN Center, or something else  use Mission Control to gather their community, host leagues of various game titles, and manage their esports' operation. Gamers use Mission Control for a casual, social experience doing something they love with others in their community. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mission-control-teams-up-with-university-of-kentucky-esports-301372725.html SOURCE Mission Control GG

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[September 09, 2021] World-Renowned Schmidt Ocean Institute, Robert Downey Jr.'s FootPrint Coalition, and Philippe Cousteau, Jr. To Accept Awards at AltaSea's Second Annual Blue Hour

AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, together with LA City Council District 15, is hosting its second annual Blue Hour, an event that will amplify and promote the benefits of a healthy ocean and growing blue economy, as well as educating the next generation on ocean exploration and conservation, through the work of world-class artists. Blue Hour: Ocean of Inclusion will be a two-part visual experience, with artist exhibits preceding the main event. The event will take place at Angels Gate Park in San Pedro on October 9, with the artist exhibits from 4:30-6 PM and the main event from 7-9 PM. Tickets to the event are on sale now. More information can be found here: https://altasea-project-blue.org/the-blue-hour-2021/. AltaSea - a unique public-private ocean institute that convenes and nurtures the best and brightest pioneers and organizations in science, business, and education - hosted the first-ever Blue Hour in 2020, a drive-in experience that included a first-of-its-kind art installation projected onto the USS Iowa, a retired battleship-turned-museum moored on the San Pedro waterfront. "As Jacques Cousteau once said, 'The sea, the great unifier, is (our) only hope.' Blue Hour: Ocean of Inclusion will celebrate that very thought in one of the most unique events in Los Angeles," said AltaSea CEO Tim McOsker. "Art has the ability to cross barriers and unite us, and by blending art and ocean sustainability, this event will inspire and promote our mission of advancing the blue economy while preserving the ocean for future generations." For this year's Blue Hour, AltaSea is partnering with the Korean Cultural Center of Los Angeles, the Korean Friendship Bell Preservation Committee, Angels Gate Cultural Center, and the Department of Recreation and Parks. AltaSea will present three awards throughout the evening, recognizing select individuals who have both paved the way and inspired the next generation: Explorer Award, Schmidt Ocean Institute

NextGen (News - Alert) Award, EarthEcho International

Innovation Award, FootPrint Coalition



Dr. Jyotika Virmani, Executive Director of the Schmidt Ocean Institute (SOI). Dr. Virmani, the first executive director of SOI, leads the global nonprofit in its work to advance the field of oceanographic science through innovative research and technology. Since its founding by Wendy and Eric Schmidt, the former Google (News - Alert) CEO, in 2009, SOI has worked to advance oceanographic research, discovery, and knowledge, and catalyze sharing of information about the oceans. Philippe Cousteau, Jr., co-founder of EarthEcho International, will accept the NextGen Award. Cousteau, inspired by the legacy of his grandfather, famed ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, is a multi-Emmy-nominated TV host, author, speaker, and social entrepreneur. During his career, he has hosted many TV programs for BBC, CNN, Discovery, Travel Channel, and others. His organization, EarthEcho International, was founded in 2005 with his sister, Alexandra, in honor of their father, Philippe Cousteau Sr., to provide knowledge and develop tools in youth around the world that drive meaningful environmental action to protect and restore the ocean planet. With a reach of over 2 million people in 146 countries, EarthEcho supports the next generation to become environmental leaders who will transform the future.

Accepting the Innovation Award will be Rachel Kropa, Managing Director, FootPrint Coalition. FootPrint Coalition - founded by actor, producer, and activist Robert Downey Jr. - makes investments, provides grants, and creates media for the purpose of advancing and scaling environmental technology. Kropa, the former head of Creative Artists Agency Foundation, leads FootPrint Coalition's scientific and philanthropic initiatives. The event will feature multiple art exhibits, including a gallery from Schmidt Ocean Institute's Artist-at-Sea program. Like the Blue Hour, the program seeks to use art to help conceptualize and broaden the awareness of the important research Schmidt Ocean Institute is doing on-board their research vessels. Dr. Carlie Wiener, the Director of Communications and Engagement Strategy of SOI, will host a Q&A session on the Artist-at-Sea program at the VIP Salon. Dr. Wiener has over thirteen years of experience in marine science communications. Dr. Wiener has taught several courses throughout her career, specializing on communicating oceanography and marine science to the public. She has over twelve publications printed in top scientific research journals across the country. A highlight of the evening will be a sneak preview of four-time Emmy award-winning filmmaker and marine biologist Rick Rosenthal's upcoming nature series PLANET CALIFORNIA, offered exclusively for Blue Hour attendees. Combining the visual arts with natural history, the series celebrates California's wildlife and wild places, especially its stunning ocean habitats. Hosting the Blue Hour will be multi-Emmy award-winning journalist, Val Zavala. Zavala spent 30 years as a broadcast journalist at KCET in Los Angeles, winning numerous journalism awards. During her career, Zavala has covered a broad spectrum of Southern California issues, including politics, the environment, and the economy. Over the past year, Zavala has served as moderator for many webinars in AltaSea's Project Blue webinar series. About AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles AltaSea at the Port of Los Angeles, located on 35 acres at North America's leading seaport by both container volume and cargo value, is dedicated to accelerating scientific collaboration, advancing an emerging blue economy through business innovation and job creation, and inspiring the next generation, all for a more sustainable, just, and equitable world. For more information on AltaSea, please see our website: https://altasea.org. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005802/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Worldwide Enterprise External OEM Storage Systems Market Revenue Increased 9.7% During the Second Quarter of 2021, According to IDC

According to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Storage Systems Tracker, global market revenue for enterprise external OEM storage systems grew 9.7% year over year to $6.9 billion during the second quarter of 2021 (2Q21). Total external OEM storage capacity shipped was up 27.9% year over year to 22.1 exabytes during the quarter. Revenue generated by the group of original design manufacturers (ODMs) selling directly to hyperscale datacenters declined by 7.7% year over year in 2Q21 to $6.4 billion, while capacity shipped grew 13.8% year over year to 88.7 exabytes. Enterprise storage capacity shipments for the entire market (External OEM + ODM Direct + Server-Based Storage) increased 25.2% to 156.1 exabytes. "The external storage systems market recovery observed during first quarter of 2021 continued even stronger during the second quarter," said Zsofia Madi-Szabo, research manager, Infrastructure Platforms and Technologies at IDC. "The degree to which demand returned was highly influenced by the rate at which each regional economy has recovered from the difficulties associated with the global pandemic." Enterprise External OEM Storage Systems Results, by Company Dell (News - Alert) Technologiesa was the largest external enterprise storage systems supplier during the quarter, accounting for 26.8% of worldwide revenue. HPE/H3Cb was the second largest supplier during the quarter with 10.9% of revenue. NetApp and Huawei (News - Alert) tied* for third place with 9.9% and 8.9% of total revenues, respectively. Three vendors, Hitachi, IBM, and Pure Storage, tied* for fifth place in the market with shares of 4.9%, 4.7% and 4.1%, respectively.







Top 5 Companies, Worldwide Enterprise External OEM Storage Systems Market, Second Quarter of 2021 (Revenues are in US$ millions) Company 2Q21 Revenue 2Q21 Market Share 2Q20 Revenue 2Q20 Market Share 2Q21/2Q20 Revenue Growth 1. Dell Technologiesa $1,860.1 26.8% $1,689.7 26.7% 10.1% 2. HPE/H3Cb $756.7 10.9% $659.7 10.4% 14.7% T3. NetApp* $685.0 9.9% $612.6 9.7% 11.8% T3. Huawei* $619.5 8.9% $489.0 7.7% 26.7% T5. Hitachi* $338.3 4.9% $352.4 5.6% -4.0% T5. IBM (News - Alert)* $322.9 4.7% $504.6 8.0% -36.0% T5. Pure Storage* $287.4 4.1% $256.5 4.1% 12.0% Rest of Market $2,061.0 29.7% $1,752.8 27.7% 17.6% Total $6,930.8 100.0% $6,317.2 100.0% 9.7% Source (News - Alert) : IDC Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Storage Systems Tracker, September 9, 2021.

Notes: * IDC declares a statistical tie in the worldwide enterprise external storage market when there is a difference of one percent or less in the share of revenues or shipments among two or more vendors. a Dell Technologies represents the combined revenues for Dell and EMC. b Due to the existing joint venture between HPE and H3C, IDC is reporting external market share on a global level for HPE and H3C as "HPE/H3C" starting from 2Q 2016. Per the JV agreement, Tsinghua Holdings subsidiary, Unisplendour Corporation, through a wholly owned affiliate, purchased a 51% stake in H3C and HPE has a 49% ownership stake in the new company. In addition to the table above, a graphic illustrating the worldwide market share for the top 5 enterprise external OEM storage systems companies in 2Q21 and 2Q20 is available by viewing this press release on IDC.com. Flash-Based Storage Systems Highlights The total All Flash Array (AFA) market surpassed $2.7 billion in revenue during the quarter, up 7.6% year over year. The Hybrid Flash Array (HFA) market surpassed $2.8 billion in revenue, up 13.3% from the year ago quarter. Regional External Storage System Highlights Storage revenue in China grew 33.3% year over year. Japan declined 21.2% in 2Q21 compared to 2Q20, while Asia/Pacific (excluding Japan and China) was up 15.4%. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) grew 3.7% on a year-over-year basis with Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) showing double-digit growth of 26.0%. The United States was up 5.9% and Canada grew 29.5%. Latin America saw its first growth in external storage revenues this quarter since 1Q20, up 12.5%. Taxonomy Notes IDC defines an Enterprise Storage System as a set of storage elements, including controllers, cables, and (in some instances) host bus adapters, associated with three or more disks. A system may be located outside of or within a server cabinet and the average cost of the disk storage systems does not include infrastructure storage hardware (i.e., switches) and non-bundled storage software. The information in this quantitative study is based on a branded view of the enterprise storage systems sale. Revenue associated with the products to the end user is attributed to the seller (brand) of the product, not the manufacturer. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sales are not included in this study. The IDC Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Storage Systems Tracker is a quantitative tool for analyzing the global disk storage market on a quarterly basis. The Tracker includes quarterly shipments and revenues (both customer and factory), Terabytes, $/Gigabyte, Gigabyte/Unit, and Average Selling Value. Each criteria can be segmented by location, installation base, operating system, company, family, model, and region. The Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Storage Systems Tracker is part of the Worldwide Quarterly Enterprise Infrastructure Tracker, which provides a holistic total addressable market view of the five key enabling infrastructure technologies for the datacenter (servers, external enterprise storage systems, purpose-built appliances: HCI and PBBA, and datacenter switches). For more information about IDC's Worldwide Enterprise Storage Systems Quarterly Tracker, please contact Lidice Fernandez at 305-351-3051 or lfernandez@idc.com. About IDC Trackers IDC Tracker products provide accurate and timely market size, vendor share, and forecasts for hundreds of technology markets from more than 100 countries around the globe. Using proprietary tools and research processes, IDC's Trackers are updated on a semiannual, quarterly, and monthly basis. Tracker results are delivered to clients in user-friendly Excel deliverables and on-line query tools. Click here to learn about IDC's full suite of data products and how you can leverage them to grow your business. About IDC International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. With more than 1,100 analysts worldwide, IDC offers global, regional, and local expertise on technology, IT benchmarking and sourcing, and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries. IDC's analysis and insight helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community to make fact-based technology decisions and to achieve their key business objectives. Founded in 1964, IDC is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Data Group (IDG), the world's leading tech media, data, and marketing services company. To learn more about IDC, please visit www.idc.com. Follow IDC on Twitter (News - Alert) at @IDC and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the IDC Blog for industry news and insights. All product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005847/en/

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[September 09, 2021] INVESTIGATION REMINDER: The Schall Law Firm Announces it is Investigating Claims Against The Boston Beer Company, Inc. and Encourages Investors with Losses to Contact the Firm

The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. ("Boston Beer" or "the Company") (NYSE: SAM) for violations of the securities laws. The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Boston Beer announced on September 8, 2021, that it would withdraw the 2021 financial guidance that was released on July 22, 2021. The Company blamed the withdrawal on decreased demand for its hard seltzr products. The Company also disclosed that it expects hard seltzer inventory write-offs, shortfall fees to third-party brewers, and other negative financial events associated with decreased demand for its products. Based on this news, shares of Boston Beer fell by almost 4.5% in intraday trading on September 9, 2021.



If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate. We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA (News - Alert) 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com, or by email at brian@schallfirm.com.

The class in this case has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member. The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005902/en/

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INVESTOR ALERT: Law Offices of Howard G. Smith Announces Investigation of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (SAM) on Behalf of Investors

Law Offices of Howard G. Smith announces an investigation on behalf of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. ("Boston Beer" or the "Company") (NYSE: SAM) investors concerning the Company's possible violations of federal securities laws.

On September 8, 2021, after the market closed, Boston Beer announced that it was withdrawing its 2021 financial guidance issued on July 22, 2021 as a result of a decrease in demand for its hard seltzer products. The Company further disclosed that it expects to incur hard seltzer-related inventory write-offs, shortfall fees payable to 3rd party brwers, and other costs associated with the drop in demand during the remainder of fiscal year 2021.







On this news, Boston Beer's share price fell approximately 5% during intraday trading on September 9, 2021, thereby injuring investors.

If you purchased Boston Beer securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Howard G. Smith, Esquire, of Law Offices of Howard G. Smith, 3070 Bristol Pike, Suite 112, Bensalem, Pennsylvania 19020 by telephone at (215) 638-4847, toll-free at (888) 638-4847, or by email to howardsmith@howardsmithlaw.com, or visit our website at www.howardsmithlaw.com.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005933/en/
[September 09, 2021] Foresite Welcomes Industry Veteran as Vice President of Sales Accelerating Growth and Expansion Plans

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Foresite, a cybersecurity solutions provider, is pleased to announce industry veteran Media Landry joins as Foresite's Vice President of Sales. Media's responsibilities will encompass sales leadership to support the company's strategic growth and expansion strategy. Media brings over 20 years of sales and leadership experience to Foresite with a proven track record of success in the managed security and compliance marketplace. Prior to joining Foresite, Media held executive sales leadership roles at NTT, Solutionary and IGX Global where she played an integral role in the growth, M&A, and people development of those companies. "Media is an outstanding addition to our Foresite team," said Matt Gyde, CEO and Chairman of Foresite. "She is well known and respected in the industry. As we continue to grow our SaS security offerings, Media's experience will uniquely position her well to lead our growth initiatives while bringing value to our customers."



"I'm extremely excited to join such a dynamic and client focused organization at such a pivotal time in our growth plan. Our team will be aggressively growing our client base, presenting new outcome-based solutions to our existing clients and strengthening our partnerships. We offer clients a full suite of world class cyber security solutions that include managed security and consulting services, that are critical in today's every changing threat landscape. I'm fortunate to be joining such a well-respected group that provides a hands-on approach to solving client's business challenges.", stated Media Landry, VP of Sales at Foresite. About Foresite:

Foresite is a global cybersecurity SaaS solutions provider, delivering a range of solutions designed to help our clients meet their cybersecurity and compliance objectives. In the face of increasingly persistent cyber-threats, Foresite's solutions empower organizations with vigilance and expertise to proactively identify, respond to, and remediate cyber-attacks and breaches where they occur. For more information, visit us at www.foresite.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/foresite-welcomes-industry-veteran-as-vice-president-of-sales-accelerating-growth-and-expansion-plans-301372832.html SOURCE Foresite

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[September 09, 2021] $10K HAVEN Grant Helps Arkansas Army Veteran with Home Repairs

U.S. Army Reserve Veteran Jeffery Darrough, who served tours in Iraq and Kuwait, recently received a $10,000 Housing Assistance for Veterans (HAVEN) grant to make repairs on his Arkansas home. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006005/en/ U.S. Army Reserve veteran Jeffrey Darrough, seen here with his wife, Joyce, received a $10,000 HAVEN grant from FBT Bank and Mortgage and FHLB Dallas to make repairs to his home. (Photo: Business Wire) At the age of 17, Master Sergeant Darrough decided to enter the Army Reserve on a last-minute whim. "Ironically, I went to support a friend who was signing up to join the Army, and the rest of my friends and I ended up taking the required test, as well. We all passed except for the friend that actually wanted to sign up," says Master Sergeant Darrough. It did not take much convincing for Master Sergeant Darrough to join the Army after that. He spent 26 years in the Army, including six years of active duty. During his service, he helped move supplies from Kuwait to Iraq. Now 54, Master Sergeant Darrough suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder and memory loss, which complicated his ability to get re-acclimated to civilian life. He and his wife purchased an older home that required extensive and expensive renovations. That'swhen he discovered the HAVEN grant, offered by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas).



Master Sergeant Darrough got connected with FBT Bank and Mortgage to apply for and receive the grant. HAVEN funds, which are awarded through participating FHLB Dallas members like FBT Bank and Mortgage, assist with necessary modifications to homes of U.S. veterans and active-duty, reserve or National Guard service members who became disabled as a result of military service occurring after September 11, 2001. The funds may also be awarded to Gold Star Families, who lost a loved one during this time frame. Master Sergeant Darrough's grant covered the installment of vinyl plank floors throughout the home, new toilets and new plumbing.

"This was our first time helping with the program and it was a simple decision to join," said FBT Bank and Mortgage Assistant Vice President Daniel Pledger. "Helping local veterans and their families through HAVEN is a big part of being a community bank. I think the HAVEN program is outstanding, and we plan to help other veterans apply for the grant." Master Sergeant Darrough said it would have taken longer to complete the renovations without the grant. "If I had not received the grant, I probably would have had to push back the repairs I needed. There is no way I could have gotten it all done at once," he said. "The HAVEN program took my worries away, and it was a tremendous blessing." Greg Hettrick, first vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, says HAVEN is a unique program because it provides important services those who have served in the military. "HAVEN is a prime example of the mission of FHLB Dallas and its members, such as FBT Bank and Mortgage, to provide services that support the community in a compelling way," said Mr. Hettrick. "We consider it a privilege to partner with FBT Bank and Mortgage to fund these needed home improvements to Master Sergeant Darrough." About FBT Bank and Mortgage FBT Bank and Mortgage is a full-service bank established in 1931. Now operating in five locations, FBT Bank and Mortgage is focused on the communities it serves, offering state-of-the-art products and services while delivering personalized attention to customers. To learn more, go to fbtbank.com. About the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas is one of 11 district banks in the FHLBank System created by Congress in 1932. FHLB Dallas, with total assets of $58.6 billion as of June 30, 2021, is a member-owned cooperative that supports housing and community development by providing competitively priced loans and other credit products to approximately 800 members and associated institutions in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas. For more information, visit our website at fhlb.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006005/en/

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Cleveland Clinic Commits $2.5 Million to Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition to Advance Lead Poisoning Prevention Efforts With United Way of Greater Cleveland

The Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition has received a $2.5 million gift from Cleveland Clinic to the Lead Safe Home Fund. The five-year financial commitment will help support a collaboration with United Way of Greater Cleveland to remove harmful sources of lead exposure from local homes.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006022/en/

An estimated 67% of all housing units across the state were built before 1980 and contain lead-based hazards, according to the Ohio Department of Health. Children living in Cuyahoga County are at the highest risk for lead exposure, and Cleveland is at the epicenter of this health crisis with lead poisoning rates topping nearly four times the national average.

Cleveland Clinic's $2.5 million gift toward advancing the work of the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition's lead poisoning prevention efforts is the single largest gift to United Way of Greater Cleveland's Impact Institute and one of the top ten largest commitments made to United Way of Greater Cleveland in the organization's history.

"For far too long, children in Cleveland have been robbed of the ability to live up to their full potential because of lead poisoning," said Augie Napoli, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland, a founding member of the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition Steering Committee. "United Way and the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition are continuing to work closely with patners across our community to find innovative, long-term solutions to ensure safe and healthy housing options are available to all families and children living in Cleveland, and we're grateful to the Cleveland Clinic for supporting that important, life-saving work through their $2.5 million investment."







The Lead Safe Home Fund, a first-of-its-kind, public-private sector partnership, provides families and property owners with the resources they need to make homes lead safe. This, along with investments from the public sector, private sector, and other philanthropic partners brings the total pool of funds to nearly $45 million.

"Our communities can only be safe and healthy when every person has the opportunity to live in a safe and healthy home," said Cleveland Clinic CEO and President Tom Mihaljevic, M.D. "It is our goal to create the healthiest communities for everyone. By providing direct support to the communities and partnering with existing organizations like United Way and the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition, our neighbors can prosper and live healthy lives."

Expected, near-term outcomes include the following: feasible and equitable Lead Safe Certificate implementation; healthy homes, safe from lead, across the City of Cleveland; expansion of the qualified lead-safe workforce, with an emphasis on training and hiring Cleveland residents; training and financial aid to qualifying landlords; and widespread lead poisoning prevention education and outreach.

Cleveland Clinic is actively engaged in screening, treating and preventing childhood lead exposure and poisoning. Each year, Cleveland Clinic Children's providers screen thousands of youth for elevated blood lead levels in its primary care offices and through its school-based healthcare mobile unit. In addition, the hospital is implementing a best practice protocol to flag pediatric patients with high lead levels in its EPIC (electronic health records) system. These patients will receive ongoing medical care and counseling, education and referral to a network of community resources and support services in their county.

The Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition launched in 2019 to address lead poisoning through a comprehensive, preventive, and long-term approach. This approach protects Cleveland's children by merging smart, adaptable public policies with knowledgeable agencies willing to collaborate; proven community programs and leaders; and public and private sector accountability.

"Lead poisoning is a public health crisis with a housing solution. This Cleveland Clinic investment underscores the fact that safe, decent housing improves health outcomes," said Kim Foreman, Executive Director of Environmental Health Watch and the Lead Safe Resource Center, and a member of the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition Steering Committee. "Lead poisoning affects us all and we all have a responsibility to address it. Thank you to the Cleveland Clinic for understanding this collective responsibility and joining the work to ensure that no child is poisoned by lead."

Initial support for the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition came from the Mt. Sinai Health Care Foundation, The George Gund Foundation, the Saint Luke's Foundation, The Cleveland Foundation, the Bruening Foundation, the Sisters of Charity Foundation, the Third Federal Foundation and United Way of Greater Cleveland. Today, the Coalition includes more than 500 members representing housing (including both landlord and tenant interests), health care, community development, government, philanthropy, academia, and neighborhood advocates. The Lead Safe Home Fund includes investments from the public sector (State of Ohio, Cuyahoga County, the City of Cleveland), philanthropy, and private sector (banks, CDFIS, and healthcare institutions).

On June 21, 2019, United Way of Greater Cleveland and the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition held the Lead Safe Cleveland Summit to raise awareness about lead poisoning, participate in collaborative discussions and develop long-term solutions to prevent lead poisoning and create a lead-safe city for all Clevelanders.

On Friday, Sept. 10, United Way will host its Annual Community Meeting virtually at 4 p.m. Registration is complimentary and open to all at www.unitedwaycleveland.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006022/en/
[September 09, 2021]

TAAL Announces Appointment of New Board Member

TORONTO, Sept. 9, 2021 /CNW/ - TAAL Distributed Information Technologies Inc. (CSE: TAAL) (FWB: 9SQ1) (OTC: TAALF) ("TAAL" or the "Company"), a vertically integrated blockchain infrastructure and service provider for enterprise, announced today that Dr. Daniel Diemers has been appointed to the Company's Board of Directors until the next annual general meeting of the shareholders. Dr. Diemers will also serve as a member of the Company's Technology Committee.

Dr. Diemers is co-founder and partner of SNGLR Group, a VC and tech firm focusing on exponential technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence, and is a member of the national Blockchain Task Force (now Swiss Blockchain Federation). Dr. Diemers joins Mr. Baker, Ms. Rosati, Mr. Strub and Mr. Darcy as the fifth independent director of the Company.

Stefan Matthews, TAAL's Executive Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer stated, "Daniel provides a wealth of experience in the blockchain and technology sectors as we continue to build and expand our Board to ensure we have a diversity of experience and skills in addition to a strong contingent of independent directors to guide our business. Our focus is on growth in revenue while ensuring management of risk. I am extremely pleased with our emerging Board composition."

About TAAL Distributed Information Technologies Inc.

TAAL Distributed Information Technologies Inc. delivers value-added blockchain services, providing professional-grade, highly scalable blockchain infrastructure and transactional platforms to support businesses building solutions and applications upon the BitcoinSV platform, and developing, operating, and managing distributed computing systems for enterprise users.

Visit TAAL online at www.taal.com

The CSE, nor its Regulation Services Provider, accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Taal Distributed Information Technologies Inc.
[September 09, 2021] Tyler Technologies Acquires Arx

Tyler Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: TYL) announced today it has acquired Arx, a cloud-based software platform which creates accessible technology to enable a modern-day police force that is fully transparent, accountable, and a trusted resource to the community it serves. Through this acquisition, Tyler will add Arx's software solutions, Arx Alert and Arx Community, to its public safety software suite. With Tyler's newest public safety offerings, law enforcement will benefit from tools that foster transparency internally and externally, build trust with the communities they serve, reduce risk, and ensure a better quality of life for public safety personnel and the public. Critical data can be easily accessed by members of the community to understand crime, community calls for service, department accountability, and how police are responding in their neighborhood. "The acquisition of Arx allows Tyler to offer a full suite of public safety solutions designed to maximize efficiency and safety for law enforcement officers while increasing transparency and trust-building with the communities they serve," said Bryan Proctor, president of Tyler's Public Safety Division. "We look forward to the opportunities ahead as we leverage the scale and scope of our public safety portfolio to ensure the needs of the community and law enforcement agencies are met with the highest quality. We're excited to welcome Arx to the Tyler team."



Through Arx Community, citizens, businesses and community organizations can better understand community policing activity and how to build stronger community partnerships. Community members can access pertinent crime data, agency accountability data, and enforcement action data. The community will have direct insight into both crime and policing that impact their neighborhoods. With instant access to data, communities can feel more confident and build more trust with their policing partners.

"Tyler shares our vision of creating a more unified community for citizens and those that protect them," said Bo Cheng, co-founder and president, Arx. "Through that shared vision, Tyler and Arx will work in partnership to accelerate our growth and scale our impact as we help police departments create safer and more equitable communities, with technology and intelligence that makes public safety data clearly seen, analyzed, and appropriately acted on." Founded by Bo Cheng and Andrew McKeever, Arx is based in Detroit, Michigan. Arx management and staff will become part of Tyler's Public Safety Division based in Troy, Michigan, and its current employees are expected to remain working remotely. About Tyler Technologies (News - Alert) , Inc. Tyler Technologies (NYSE: TYL) provides integrated software and technology services to the public sector. Tyler's end-to-end solutions empower local, state, and federal government entities to operate more efficiently and connect more transparently with their constituents and with each other. By connecting data and processes across disparate systems, Tyler's solutions are transforming how clients gain actionable insights that solve problems in their communities. Tyler has more than 27,000 successful installations across more than 11,000 sites, with clients in all 50 states, Canada, the Caribbean, Australia, and other international locations. Tyler has been named to Government Technology's GovTech 100 list five times and has been recognized three times on Forbes' "Most Innovative Growth Companies" list. More information about Tyler Technologies, an S&P 500 company headquartered in Plano, Texas, can be found at tylertech.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909005697/en/

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[September 09, 2021]

Cogeco Communications Inc. to Participate in BMO Capital Markets' 22nd Annual Media & Telecom Conference

MONTREAL, Sept. 9, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - Cogeco Communications Inc. (TSX: CCA) announced today that it will be participating in BMO Capital Markets' 22nd Annual Media & Telecom Conference to be held virtually on September 14, 2021. Philippe Jette, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cogeco Communications Inc., will participate in an interactive discussion at 1:45 p.m. (EDT).

A live audio webcast of the discussion will be available on the day of the conference on the Cogeco Communications website at http://corpo.cogeco.com/cca/en/investors/investor-relations/.







ABOUT COGECO COMMUNICATIONS INC.

Cogeco Communications Inc. is a communications corporation. It is the 8th largest cable operator in North America, operating in Canada under the Cogeco Connexion name in Quebec and Ontario, and in the United States under the Atlantic Broadband brand in 12 states. The Corporation provides residential and business customers with Internet, video and telephony services through its two-way broadband fibre networks. Cogeco Communications Inc. subordinate voting shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: CCA).

SOURCE Cogeco Communications Inc.
[September 09, 2021] State Street Corporation Announces Public Offering of Common Stock

State Street Corporation ("State Street") (NYSE: STT) today announced that it intends to sell 21,724,217 shares of its common stock in an underwritten public offering. The offering will be conducted as a public offering registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. All of the shares in the offering are to be sold by State Street. State Street intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to fund a portion of the cash consideration payable for, and certain costs associated with, the acquisition of Brown Brothers Harriman Investor Services ("BBH Investor Services"). Completion of this offering is not contingent upon the completion of the acquisition of BBH Investor Services. If the acquisition of BBH Investor Services is not completed, State Street will use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and BofA Securities are acting as underwriters for the proposed offering. The offering is being made pursuant to an effective registration statement on Form S-3 (including a prospectus) filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the " SEC (News - Alert) "). Prospective investors should read the prospectus forming a part of that registration statement and the preliminary prospectus supplement related to the offering and the other documents that State Street has filed with the SEC for more complete information about State Street and this offering. These documents are available at no charge by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, the prospectus and prospectus supplement relating to the offering, when availble, may be obtained from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC at Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Prospectus Department, 200 West Street, New York, NY 10282, telephone: 1-866-471-2526, facsimile: 212-902-9316 and BofA Securities at BofA Securities, NC1-004-03-43, 200 North College Street, 3rd floor, Charlotte NC 28255-0001, Attn: Prospectus Department.



This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the shares of State Street's common stock, nor shall there be any offer, solicitation or sale of the shares of State Street's common stock in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. About State Street Corporation

State Street Corporation (NYSE: STT) is one of the world's leading providers of financial services to institutional investors including investment servicing, investment management and investment research and trading. With $42.6 trillion in assets under custody and/or administration and $3.9 trillion* in assets under management as of June 30, 2021, State Street operates globally in more than 100 geographic markets and employs approximately 39,000 worldwide. *Assets under management as of June 30, 2021 includes approximately $64 billion of assets with respect to SPDR products for which State Street Global Advisors Funds Distributors, LLC (SSGA FD) acts solely as the marketing agent. SSGA FD and State Street Global Advisors are affiliated. Forward Looking Statements Statements in this release that are not strictly historical, including statements regarding the terms of the proposed offering, the timing and completion of the offering, State Street's intended use of proceeds, the acquisition of BBH Investor Services and any other statements regarding events or developments that State Street expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future, are "forward-looking" statements. There are a number of important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those suggested or indicated by such forward-looking statements and you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risks and uncertainties relating to capital markets conditions and completion of the offering, the ability of the parties to the acquisition of BBH Investor Services to satisfy the conditions to the acquisition on a timely basis and such parties' ability to complete the acquisition on the anticipated terms and schedule, including the ability to obtain regulatory approvals. Additional information regarding the factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements is available in State Street's SEC filings, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 and its subsequent SEC filings. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this release, and State Street does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006119/en/

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[September 09, 2021] Insight Select Income Fund Declares Quarterly Dividend

Dividend Declaration The Insight Select Income Fund (INSI) (the "Fund") today declared a quarterly dividend of $0.20 on September 9, 2021. The total distribution of $0.20 will be payable on October 27, 2021, to shareholders of record at the close of business on October 13, 2021, with an ex-dividend date of October 12, 2021. The Fund's last four quarterly dividend payments from ordinary income equates to approximately $0.80 per share. The Fund is a diversified closed-end management investment company whose investment objective is to seek a high rate of return, primarily from interest income and trading activity, from a portfolio principally consisting of debt securities. The Fund will also seek capital appreciation principally by purchasing debt securities at prices that the Adviser believes are below their intrinsic value. The Fund will also look to benefit from trading securities to optimize the risk adjusted yields in the Fund. Insight North America LLC, the Fund's investment adviser, provides fixed income asset management to a variety of institutonal clients including corporations, governmental entities, employee benefit plans, private funds and registered investment companies.



This press release is not for tax reporting purposes but is being provided to announce the amount of the Fund's distribution that have been declared by the Board of Trustees. A portion of the Fund's current distribution may include sources other than net investment income, including a return of capital. Investors should understand that a return of capital is not a distribution from income or gains of a Fund. As required under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, a notice with the estimated components of the distribution will be sent to shareholders at the time of payment if it does not consist solely of net investment income. The notice should not be used to prepare tax returns as the estimates indicated in the notice may differ from the ultimate federal income tax characterization of distributions. After the end of each calendar year, investors will be sent a Form 1099-DIV informing them how to report distributions received during that year for federal income tax purposes. Statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements as defined by the United States securities laws. You should exercise caution in interpreting and relying on forward-looking statements because they are subject to uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond the Fund's control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.

An investor should consider a Fund's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210909006127/en/

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[September 09, 2021]

FILTEC Demonstrates the Future of Craft Brew Inspection at the Craft Brewers Conference, Booth #824

DENVER, Sept. 9, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FILTEC (www.filtec.com), the leader in quality assurance inspection solutions for brewers around the globe, is set to demonstrate their latest solutions at the Craft Brewers Conference, booth #824. The conference runs from September 9-12, 2021 in Denver, Colorado and includes the largest brewing trade show in the United States.

FILTEC Demonstrates the Future of Craft Brew Inspection at the Craft Brewers Conference 2021, Booth #824







At the BrewExpo America Tradeshow, FILTEC will demonstrate firsthand their Fill-level, Case Inspection, Thermal Glue Inspection, and Cap Inspection solutions.

"For craft brewers who are ready to take their fist steps into automation, we are here to help," states FILTEC Product Manager, Christian Beck. "We work closely with many craft brew labels, all of whom face environmental challenges - such as water usage and finding line employees during COVID  and who want to be stronger competitors on a national and even global scale. Our solutions support scalability, reduce waste, and increase efficiency.

FILTEC is also offering a discount to craft brewers who want to add fill level inspection to their lines, as opposed to manual product weighing, which can be inaccurate and costly. Until September 30, 2021, craft brewers can take 15% off the FILTEC X-Ray Fill Level inspection system which can include the INTELLECT smart inspection platform.

"With FILTEC on their lines, craft brewers can rest assured that a perfect can or bottle of beer reaches their customers," states Beck.

To learn more about FILTEC and their Craft Brew offer, visit: https://info.filtec.com/craft-brewers-conference-2021

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/filtec-demonstrates-the-future-of-craft-brew-inspection-at-the-craft-brewers-conference-booth-824-301373024.html

SOURCE FILTEC
The commemoration of a perpetual 'war of terror' will dominate news content starting now.



Some of the local angles are captivating, others are forced.



What we notice is a very obvious effort to steer clear of recent WHITE HOUSE FAIL in Afghanistan and the implications going forward as the dominant American military was ordered to retreat and now seem hampered in confronting the threat of terrorism by way of occupation.



Accordingly . . .



Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com news links . . .

Terrorist Tribute Tourism

9/11 traveling memorial stops in Kansas City A traveling memorial to remember the victims and the heroes of 9/11 made a stop Wednesday in Kansas City. It's part of a project started 20 years ago to make sure Americans never forget. Kansas City firefighters and veterans were part of a silent ceremony unveiling a massive U.S.

Existential Fight Threatens Minor Inconvenience

After 9/11 Attacks 20 Years Ago, Kansas City Sports Fans Adjust To Clear Bags And Security Checks The security checks at Kauffman and Arrowhead Stadiums are among the most enduring signs of how much security has changed since the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon 20 years ago. And steps toward insuring a safe environment at sporting events are constantly evolving.

Making New Friends Following Historic Cultural Shift

Muslims in Kansas City reflect on 9/11 terror attacks OVERLAND PARK, Kan. - Whenever Laeeq Azmat hears about an attack, he hopes it doesn't involve a Muslim. "If something else happens and there is somebody else involved, it is just terrorism," he said. "But if a Muslim is involved, it becomes the whole Muslim community is blamed for that."

Old School News Dudes Remember Historic Collapse

Even 20 years later, the 9/11 attacks still shock KC's conscience. What has changed? Twenty years after the devastating attacks of 9/11, former Kansas City FBI spokesman Jeff Lanza joins Dave Helling and John Holt for this edition of "4Star Politics." Lanza discusses the region's reactions that day in 2001, and what has changed - or hasn't changed - since.

Kansas City Group Therapy Session Inspires Healing

Where were you on 9/11? We asked Kansas Citians to share their stories Anyone old enough to remember 9/11 has a story of where they were when the world trembled. Here are eight from Kansas Citians. I stood looking up at a television in the Kansas City Star 's newsroom a little after 8 am local time when a second plane struck the World Trade Center.

Blogger Bill Shares Personal Story

Long-time KC journalist remembers nephew lost on 9/11 with new book KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One Kansas City journalist was trying to write about what the world was watching on Sept. 11, 2001. During that daunting assignment, he got the news that changed his job and his life. Now, 20 years later, he's written a book.

Footballer Pregame Dedication

Chiefs to observe 9/11 remembrance during season opener KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City Chiefs will be among teams to observe 9/11 remembrances as part of Sunday's season opener against the Cleveland Browns at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. On Tuesday, the league announced that viewers watching any of the games in the noon window on CBS and FOX will see a tribute video narrated by actor Steve Buscemi.

Developing . . .
There are already a few protests planned along with a great deal of tough talk from activists.



As regular www.TonysKansasCity.com readers know . . . Part of the campaign to demand more affordable options is to attempt to convince mainstream local denizens.

And so . . . Progressive media has dutifully helped to offer a sympathetic glimpse at the plight of the working poor.



One example . . .



A 'wave of evictions' faces Kansas City's tenants Delivered every Tuesday and Thursday morning A donation to The Beacon goes beyond the newsroom. We amplify community voices, share resources and investigate systems, not just symptoms. The Beacon in your inbox. In-depth reporting delivered every Tuesday and Thursday morning.

And here's an even more militant alternative screed that also takes on the criminal justice system . . .



KC Plans to Build $250 Million Jail Amidst the Most Devastating Housing Crisis In Decades The Jackson County Justice System announced its intentions on building a new detention center on top of a currently low-income community, effectively expelling current residents from the area. The violent planned construction comes when there is an unprecedented housing crisis and the jail population in Jackson County, MO continues to explode.

Developing . . .
Just as we predicted earlier today . . . The Courthouse reached out and SMACKED DOWN at defiant local biz that refuses to follow pandemic precautions.

We'll talk about this more tomorrow but for now here's a peek at the word from Executive Frank White's Administration . . .

Jackson County Executives Office statement on Raes Cafe

KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Jackson County Executives Office Chief of Staff Caleb Clifford has issued the following statement regarding Raes Cafe in Blue Springs:

Jackson County is committed to protecting the health and safety of our residents. As part of that commitment, we have issued public health orders when necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in our community. On August 30, 2021, our county legislature approved a 30-day extension to our current health order which requires masks be worn indoors and will be in effect until 11:59 p.m. on October 7, 2021.

Throughout the pandemic, our residents have continually shown an amazing amount of sacrifice, selflessness and compassion. In particular, our small businesses and their employees have acted heroically despite the risks they face from the virus and non-compliant customers. That is why we are proud to say that we have been able to work with every business owner when we have received complaints and have never had to seek a court order to ensure our public health order is being followed.

Despite numerous warnings and attempts by the County to work with the business's owner, she has refused to take corrective action and has made it clear that she has no plans to do so. That is why, for the first time during the pandemic, the County will be seeking a court order to close the business.

###

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com news link . . .

Jackson County seeking court order to shut down Rae's Cafe KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- The Jackson County executive's office released a statement late Wednesday saying they will be seeking a court order to close Rae's Cafe. The restaurant, which was closed last week for not following the county mask mandate, reopened last weekend as a private club.

Jackson County to seek court order to close Rae's Cafe KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Jackson County will seek a court order to close a Blue Springs restaurant that has repeatedly violated COVID-19 health orders. Caleb Clifford, the Jackson County executive's office chief of staff, said in a statement Wednesday night that the decision was made due to Rae's Cafe in Blue Springs not complying with requests to follow the orders.

Developing . . .
Johnstown, PA (15901)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning with thunderstorms becoming likely this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High 78F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
Paul and Juanita Hurd pose for a photo at Veterans Freedom Park in Logansport on Tuesday, Aug. 24, 2021. The pair were part of a bus tour in New York City on 9/11.
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Canton, GA (30114)

Today

Mostly cloudy this morning with showers developing this afternoon. High 78F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional rain showers. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Canton, GA (30114)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will give way to occasional showers during the afternoon. High 78F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Overcast with rain showers at times. Low 66F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Good for: Local cuisine, Child-friendly

Dining options: Breakfast, Lunch, Takeout

Description: Located in the Old London Coffee House, which dates back to the 1700s, Reds Sandwich Shop has been visited by many Celebrities, Congressman, Senators and even First Lady Barbara Bush. A relaxed, friendlly atmosphere in a historic building is the perfect place to join Salem locals for the BEST breafkast and lunch menu in town. The food is delicious, all home-style cooking at pricing so reasonable you almost feel guilty. Having visited numerous restaurants in Salem that charge outrageous pricing for mediocre food, Red's Sandwich Shop is the crown jewel of the city in terms of excellent food, great prices, and a lovely environment with a friendly staff. They offer an extensive breakfast and lunch menu, Dinner Specials, and a daily $6.95 Special.. And when they say roasted turkey, they mean roasted turkey -- whole turkeys are roasted on the premises and carved for your order. In a tribute to Thanksgiving, their Home Style Turkey Sandwich (roasted turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce and gravy) is out of this world! Wonderful specialty items from Chicken Marsala and Chicken Piccata to Chicken Pot Pie are made to order. Soups and chowders made fresh daily. For a variety of sandwiches from open-faced, to club, to roll-ups -- they cannot be beat. Red's is an award-winning restaurant that received the "BEST BREAKFAST ON THE NORTH SHORE" award for 24 years in a row! I cannot rave enough about this restaurant. If you have only one restaruant to visit in Salem, make it Red's.
Ukraine and Thailand have agreed to hold a constituent meeting of the Joint Trade Commission in the near future so that to increase trade and strengthen business ties.

The Ukrainian Ministry for Foreign Affairs informed this following a meeting of Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (CDTO) Dmytro Senik and Chettaphan Maksamphan, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to Ukraine with Residence in Warsaw, Ukrinform reports.

The diplomats discussed the development of relations between Ukraine and Thailand, in particular, the revival of political contacts, consultations between the Ministries for Foreign Affairs.

"Dmytro Senik and Chettaphan Maksamphan noted the importance of launching the activities of the Joint Trade Commission in order to increase trade and strengthen business ties. The interlocutors agreed to unite efforts so that the commissions constituent meeting be held in the near future, reads the report.

In addition, the Ukrainian deputy minister thanked the Thai side for its support in granting the AIPA Observer Status to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine. The relevant decision was announced at the 42nd AIPA General Assembly, which took place in Brunei Darussalam on August 23-25.

Senik also proposed that digital COVID certificates be recognized between the two countries so that to simplify the travel conditions of citizens.

According to the Ukrainian Ministry for Foreign Affairs, the volume of Ukraine-Thailand trade in goods and services reached $367 million in 2020. In the first half of 2021, the volume of trade in goods between Ukraine and Thailand amounted to $163 million, which is 38% more than in the same period last year.

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The World Bank is ready to allocate $230 million to Ukraine by December 2021 as part of the COVAX initiative, the Ukrainian Finance Ministry's press service has reported.

According to the report, a meeting was held between Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko and World Bank Regional Director for Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine Arup Banerji.

"The parties discussed the project 'Ukraine Emergency COVID-19 Response and Vaccination.' Arup Banerji noted that the Bank is ready to allocate $230 million to Ukraine by December 2021 under the COVAX global initiative," the report said.

Both parties also discussed the allocation of additional funding to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, financial and banking sector reforms, the implementation of pension reform in Ukraine and the conditions for obtaining a Second Economic Recovery Development Policy Loan (DPL).

A $350 million loan agreement between Ukraine and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) was signed in June 2021 for the First Economic Recovery Development Policy Loan.

Photo: Finance Ministry's press service

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The Verkhovna Rada has voted down draft resolution No. 5380 "On the Appeal of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to the Congress of the United States of America on Granting Ukraine the Status of a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA)."

Some 24 MPs voted for the document at an extraordinary meeting of the Verkhovna Rada on Wednesday, September 8, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

The draft resolution asked the Ukrainian parliament to call on U.S. Congress to grant Ukraine the status of a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA).

The document states that Ukraine's staying in the "gray zone" of international security and Russia's violating current international security legislation will threaten every European and -- given the nuclear blackmail of the Russian leadership -- the whole world.

"An important element of the response to such a global challenge could be the deepening of the bilateral partnership between Ukraine and the United States. There is the experience of such a partnership in international politics  the United States' Major Non-NATO Ally. This status has been granted to countries that are in a state of peace, such as Zealand or Japan, and to countries at risk of hostilities, such as South Korea, Afghanistan or Israel," the appeal said.

It notes that as of today, the security situation in eastern Ukraine is deteriorating due to Russia's building up its military presence near Ukraine's borders and in the temporarily occupied Ukrainian Crimea and through Russia's provocations in the temporarily occupied part of eastern Ukraine.

The author of the draft resolution is Oleksii Honcharenko, an MP from the European Solidarity faction.

Verkhovna Rada Chairman Dmytro Razumkov earlier convened an extraordinary parliament meeting on September 8 to consider the draft resolution "On the Appeal of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to the Congress of the United States of America on Granting Ukraine the Status of a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA)."

Ukraine's Ambassador to the United States Oksana Markarova said the MNNA status is given to countries that do not plan or cannot join NATO.

Markarova recalled that Ukraine has the status of an Enhanced Opportunities Partner (EOP), which provides great opportunities for enhanced cooperation with NATO and improving Ukraine's interoperability and capacity building.

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The Council of Permanent Representatives of the EU member states at the level of ambassadors (COREPER) on Wednesday supported the decision to extend for the next six months the package of sanctions for actions undermining the sovereignty and independence of Ukraine.

Thats according to Ukrinforms source in diplomatic circles in Brussels.

"COREPER has green-lighted foreign policy agenda items. The one concerning Ukraine has yet to be approved by the EU Council in writing before it is published in the Official Journal of the European Union. Only after that will it be possible to discuss its content in more detail," the source said.

Ukraine has welcomed the decision of the Committee of Permanent Representatives of the EU to extend sanctions against 177 individuals and 48 legal entities who undermine the sovereignty of our state.

"We welcome the decision of the EU Permanent Representatives Committee to extend for the next six months, until March 15, 2022, the EU's personal sanctions against 177 individuals and 48 legal entities in connection with their actions that undermine/threaten the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine," First Deputy Foreign Minister Emine Dzheppar wrote on Twitter.

According to the diplomat, the EU sanctions should continue until the full deoccupation of the Ukrainian territories. Ukraine will work with the EU to expand the scope of sanctions, including to those responsible for rights violations, including the illegal detentions in Crimea on September 3 and 4.

As Ukrinform reported, the European Union on March 17, 2014, applied restrictive measures for actions undermining or threatening the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine, after Russia unleashed aggression against Ukraine.

Since then, the EU Council has been extending the package every six months. The last time such a decision was made was on March 12, 2021, when the sanctions were extended until September 15, 2021. The restrictive measures include travel restrictions, asset freezes, and a ban on financing the banned persons and entities.

Read also: EU condemns new searches and detentions in occupied Crimea

At the moment, sanctions apply to 177 persons and 48 entities.

In addition, restrictive measures taken by the EU in response to the Ukraine crisis include economic sanctions against certain sectors of Russian economy, which were extended for six months until January 31, 2022, as well as restrictive measures in response to the illegal annexation of Crimea and Sevastopol, which are limited to the territory of the Crimea and Sevastopol, and which were extended for a year, until June 23, 2022.

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Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has called on Russia to stop taking revenge on innocent people for the failure of Moscows campaign to disrupt the Crimea Platform summit.

The statement came during Kulebas online briefing on Thursday, September 9, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

The Minister reminded that on September 3-4, after illegal searches of Crimean Tatars homes, five men  Eldar Adamanov, Nariman Dzhelyalov, Aziz Akhtemov, Asan Akhtemov, and Shevket Useinov  were illegally detained.

Read also: Chubarov calls on Western leaders to snub Putin

"There can be no other interpretations than to acknowledge that these raids and arrests are part of Russia's revenge for Ukraine's successful holding of the Crimea Platform summit. After their campaign to disrupt the summit failed, Russia resorted to what they do best, which is repression, and over their own mistakes and miscalculations, they are forcing innocent Crimean Tatars to pay the price, throwing them behind bars and bringing grief to their families," said Kuleba.

He stressed that all the accusations against the held men were absurd and politically motivated, stressing that Ukraine would work with partners to ensure that all political prisoners held by Russia be released.

In this context, Kuleba recalled that during his visit to Washington, he handed to the U.S. State Department a full list of Ukrainian prisoners held in the occupied Donbas, occupied Crimea, and Russia, while during a summit of presidents of Ukraine and the U.S., Volodymyr Zelensky also raised the issue.

"We will use every opportunity to have our people released. I have one appeal to the Russians: Stop showing your pettiness. If you can't stop the government of Ukraine from fighting for Crimea and liberating the peninsula, you shouldn't attack innocent people. If you are so cool, respond to us at the level of interstate relations, not through persecuting innocent people, the head of Ukrainian diplomacy emphasized.

In response to the question regarding the Crimea arrests, the minister noted that the Ukrainian side has two tasks to fulfill: the first is to ensure that these people are not tortured and treated with dignity while behind bars, and the second the task is to have them released.

"The experience of the past seven years has proven that public awareness and rallying international community's attention to the fates of these illegally detained citizens is very important for fulfilling the first task. And this is exactly what we did first of all  you have seen the statements of Ukraine and many other states on the issue. Liberation is a different task  here we need to work through the so-called quiet diplomacy, behind the scenes, with different countries that can help us in this. And this is exactly what were doing now," Kuleba summed up.

Adamanov and Useinov were sentenced to 14 and 15 days of administrative arrest for "disobeying the lawful demands of police officers" (Article 19.3 of the Administrative Code).

Background

On September 3-4, illegal searches were carried out in Crimean Tatars homes in the occupied Crimea, followed by detentions of Crimean Tatars  public figures and ordinary citizens. Among those detained is Nariman Dzhelyalov, First Deputy Chairman of the Crimean Tatar People's Majlis, who on August 23 took part in the inaugural summit of the Crimea Platform, Ukraines initiative toward deoccupation of Crimea.

The FSB also detained four more activists  Eldar Adamanov, Aziz and Asan Akhtemovs, and Shevket Useinov.

Read also: EU condemns new searches and detentions in occupied Crimea

Along with Crimean Tatar cousins, Aziz and Asan Akhtemovs, Nariman Dzhelyalov is being accused of complicity in inflicting physical damage to a gas pipe that fed one of Russias military units in the occupied peninsula.

Another two Crimean Tatars, Eldar Odamanov and Shevket Useinov were arrested for 14 and 15 days respectively for resisting police.

im
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal has proposed holding a summit of the Lublin Triangle at the level of the prime ministers of Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania in the near future.

Shmyhal stated this at a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki as part of the 30th Economic Forum in Karpacz, Poland, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

"The Lublin Triangle is acquiring new quality forms of cooperation. I have proposed holding a meeting of the heads of government of the Lublin Triangle countries in the near future so as to bring our trilateral cooperation to a new level," Shmyhal said.

He also stressed Ukraine's desire to become an "integral part of the Three Seas Initiative," which currently unites only EU countries.

"The member states of the initiative have repeatedly emphasized the prospects for such cooperation. I believe that this format will help bring our economies closer and improve our relations," Shmyhal said.

He also thanked Morawiecki for Poland's active support for the Crimea Platform, including Polish President Andrzej Duda's participation in the August summit of the Platform.

Shmyhal thanked Morawiecki for Poland's continued support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, Warsaw's strong position on Russia's aggressive actions, including the extension of sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine's European integration.

op
Up to 90,000 hospital beds could be allocated for those who have contracted coronavirus.

Thats according to Minister of Health Viktor Liashko who reported to the Verkhovna Rada Committee on National Health, Medical Care, and Medical Insurance on Wednesday, Ukrinform reports.

We have three scenarios of coronavirus development in Ukraine  optimistic, moderate. and pessimistic. By each of these scenarios, we have sufficient bed stock to be deployed. Speaking of maximum numbers, we will need to provide some 82,000 beds, which we already had in reserve at year-start, and we potentially understand that we can deploy up to 90,000, but then it is a matter of critical impact on the health care system as we will once again be suspending scheduled hospitalizations to prioritize COVID patients, Liashko said.

As of today, the minister adds, 38,000 beds have been deployed exclusively for COVID-19 patients, of which more than 37,000, that is, over 90%, have an oxygen supply.

According to the Minister, currently about 75% of COVID-19 patients require hospitalization, of whom 65% need oxygen support.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, more than 10 million COVID-19 vaccine jabs have been administered in Ukraine since the launch of the inoculation campaign. For the past 24 hours, on September 7, almost 150,000 people have been vaccinated.

Throughout the pandemic, 2,303,276 Ukrainians contracted COVID-19, of whom 2,216,017 recovered and 54,114 died.

im
During a working visit to the Netherlands, Prosecutor General Iryna Venediktova met with relatives of the MH17 victims at the Schiphol court complex.

According to Ukrinform's own correspondent in The Hague, Venediktova met with Anton Kotte, who lost his eldest son, daughter-in-law, and grandson, and Pete Plug, who lost his brother, daughter-in-law, and nephew.

Iryna Venediktova expressed her condolences and stressed that the MH17 case is one of the key priorities for Ukraine in the work of the prosecutor's office.

She also stressed that the ongoing trials in the Netherlands into crimes committed in Ukraine during the armed conflict are all extremely important.

After the meeting, Venediktova attended todays court hearing.

Today, the relatives of the MH17 victims continue with their speeches.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, Prosecutor General of Ukraine Iryna Venediktova met with her Dutch counterpart Theo Hofstee, his deputy who is also head of the Joint Investigation Team (JIT) in the MH17 downing case, Digna van Boetzelaer.

The parties discussed issues of international legal cooperation between the offices and further interaction in the MH17 case. Under the JIT Agreement, the leading country in the inquiry is the Netherlands, which coordinates the actions of its national units. In early September 2021, changes were made to the JIT composition after PG Iryna Venediktova took the helm of the Ukrainian side.

Background

Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, en route from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, was shot down over the occupied area of Donetsk region on July 17, 2014. There were 283 passengers and 15 crew members on board. All of them died.

The international Joint Investigation Team reported that the plane had been shot down from a Buk missile system that belonged to the 53rd Anti-Aircraft Missile Brigade of the Russian Armed Forces stationed in Kursk.

On June 19, 2019, the JIT named four suspects believed to be involved in the transportation and combat use of the Buk missile system, from which MH17 flight had been downed. Three of them are Russians: Igor Girkin (Strelkov), former colonel in Russia's FSB intelligence service and former so-called "defense minister" of the self-styled "Donetsk People's Republic"; Sergey Dubinskiy, general (at the time of downing  colonel) of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces and head of the self-proclaimed "Main Intelligence Directorate of the Donetsk Peoples Republic"; Oleg Pulatov, lieutenant colonel of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the General Staff of the Russian Armed Forces. The fourth suspect is Leonid Kharchenko, a Ukrainian civilian, who fought on the side of the so-called "Donetsk People's Republic."

In March 2020, the District Court of The Hague began the consideration of the case over the downing of Flight MH17.

im
The Finnish government has decided to reinstate restrictions on unnecessary (tourist) travel by citizens coming from Ukraine, according to a special website of the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry.

From September 6 this year, travel for tourist purposes to Finland is allowed only to citizens who arrive with confirmation of the full course of vaccination against COVID-19 and provided that 14 days have passed since they received a second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

At the same time, the possibility of entry into Finland with a PCR test has been abolished.

According to the website, Finland recognizes seven vaccines: Pfizer-BionTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, Johnson & Johnson, BIBP/Sinopharm, Covishield, and CoronaVac.

A month ago, Finland reopened its borders and lifted all entry restrictions for Ukrainian citizens, allowing them to cross the border with both a vaccination certificate and a negative PCR test taken no later than 72 hours prior to entry.

op
Under normal circumstances, small boats criss-cross the Logone River, which marks the border between Cameroon and Chad, in both directions. But over the past three weeks, 11,000 Cameroonians, 98 per cent of them women and children, have taken a one-way trip to Chad.

Cameroons Far North region has just experienced the deadliest intercommunal violence in its history between Choa Arab herders and Musgum fishermen and farmers. Since 10 August, 19 villages have been torched and 40 villages have been abandoned by their fearful residents. At least 45 people have been killed and 74 others injured.

Another 15 people have gone missing and are feared to have died while trying to cross the Logone river to Chad.

"I saw dead people, right in front of my eyes."

Jean-Pierre Semana, a 52-year-old Choa Arab Cameroonian, crossed safely with his wife and six children to Oundouma, a village on the Chadian side of the river. "It was the war that brought me to Chad," he said. "I was forced to flee. During my flight, I saw dead people, right in front of my eyes."

The population of Oundouma has tripled in a fortnight with the arrival of 3,000 refugees. The rest of the refugees are scattered in seven villages along the Logone river.

The UN Refugee Agency, UNHCR, and its partners have distributed basic necessities, set up community kitchens to serve hot meals and erected four communal shelters, but the need for more food, water and shelter remains urgent with many refugees still sleeping under trees amidst frequent downpours.

"We are in the middle of the rainy season and malaria is affecting 76 per cent of the population, refugees and host communities alike," said Iris Blom, UNHCR's Deputy Representative in Chad, who visited Oundouma recently.

She added that UNHCR has set up mobile clinics and distributed medication and mosquito nets, but the heavy rains have made the roads leading to the isolated villages where refugees are sheltering almost impassable.

Despite the difficulties caused by the rains, it is their absence that is the root cause of the clashes that drove the exodus from Cameroon.

Climate change is a reality in this region of the Sahel where temperatures are rising 1.5 times faster than the global average and the UN estimates that 80 per cent of farmland is degraded. Over the past 60 years, the surface of Lake Chad, of which the Logone River is one of the main tributaries, has decreased by as much as 95 per cent.

Faced with this situation, the Musgum fishermen and farmers have dug vast trenches to retain the remaining river waters so they can fish and cultivate crops. But the muddy trenches create traps for cattle belonging to the Choa Arab herders. On several occasions, their cattle have become stuck in them and even broken their legs trying to get out.

It was one such incident that triggered the clashes that broke out on 10 August. Traditional weapons including bows and machetes were taken up and the dispute quickly escalated.

Amina was heavily pregnant when she fled the violence in Cameroon. She gave birth just two days after arriving in Chad with the help of a local midwife.  UNHCR/Aristophane Ngargoune

Amina Moussa, a 20-year-old Musgum woman, was heavily pregnant when the violence forced her to flee. She felt her first contractions while she was still travelling.

"I had to rest every 100 metres," she recalled from the home of a local family in Oundouma where she has found refuge. "My delivery was facilitated by a village midwife two days after I arrived here.

Amina left her husband behind and has received no news of him since arriving in Chad.

Cameroon has deployed security forces and undertaken disarmament operations and mediation to put an end to the clashes. Although relative calm has been restored, many of the refugees and 12,500 people displaced within Cameroon will not return immediately, especially those whose homes were burned down.

Farmers have been unable to tend to their crops for several weeks in the middle of the rainy season, a crucial time when crops require a lot of care. Much of the harvest is now lost.

UNHCR and its partners are supporting the Cameroonian and Chadian authorities to respond to the emergency but finding longer-term solutions to the impacts of climate change is a more complex challenge.

A large-scale infrastructure project named Transaqua to divert water from the Congo River basin to Lake Chad through a 2,400 kilometre-long canal has been under consideration for decades, but the first dig is not yet in sight. If and when it goes ahead, it would replenish only the Chari River, the Lakes main tributary, but would have limited impact on water levels in the Logone River.

In the meantime, resources to deal with the humanitarian impacts of the climate emergency are limited. Chad already hosts 510,000 refugees and Cameroon 450,000 and as of 1 August, UNHCR's operations in both countries were severely underfunded with less than half of the financial requirements for 2021 covered. Additional funding is urgently needed to respond to the needs of the forcibly displaced in both countries.

Additional reporting by Moise Amedje Peledai and Helen Ngoh Ada in Cameroon
Caroline Van Buren, UNHCRs Representative in Afghanistan  UNHCR/Susan Hopper

The past week has been an extremely turbulent one for Afghanistan, but UNHCR staff and partners remain in the country, delivering aid and protection to many of the countrys 3.5 million internally displaced people, including over half a million forced to flee their homes since the start of this year. Representative to Afghanistan for UNHCR, Caroline Van Buren, explains how her colleagues are adapting and responding to the humanitarian crisis wherever they can safely do so.

What is the situation in Kabul at the moment? And how are you and your staff feeling?

Currently, the situation is relatively calm. Skirmishes continue in some areas, and we still hear some sporadic gunfire, but less than in the first couple of days. The situation is slowly going back to some kind of normality.

We dont know what the future holds, whats going to happen, we dont know when a government will be in place. So, were taking it day-by-day and hoping for the best.

We are okay under the circumstances. Speaking to staff, they are still confused. Some of them are scared, some of them want to return to work.

Given the security situation, to what extent are you able to provide assistance at the moment? And what kind of assistance are you providing?

We have access in all 34 provinces, in 299 out of 450 districts. It might be okay in one area and not okay in another area, so its a mixed bag and we have to ensure staff safety. Up until now, the Taliban have respected our premises and our operations. But the situation is changing all the time, and we have to be cautious, not just for UNHCR and our staff, but also for our partners. We work with a lot of partners throughout the country. Most of them are national NGOs and they have more access than we do in certain areas.

We are doing the emergency response for people who have been displaced, who need lifesaving assistance immediately; people who ran away from their homes with absolutely nothing. We provide core relief items, we provide shelter, water, healthcare, sanitation, food. We also provide cash assistance where possible.

We started the emergency response some time ago because the conflict has been ongoing. After the announcement in May that the international military forces would leave, we really had this surge, but the conflict has been ongoing. This year alone, weve provided emergency assistance to over 200,000 people.

What are the most urgent needs right now, especially for people who have been recently displaced?

Definitely food, but also shelter, water, sanitation, and core relief items like plastic sheets, buckets, blankets and gas cylinders for cooking. Also, dignity kits for women and hygiene kits. Basic relief items that people need when they run away from home without being able to take anything.

When youre going out to do those distributions, how are you ensuring the safety of staff and partners?

The Taliban is encouraging us to resume our activities; theyre saying that theyll provide the necessary security. So, for now, in most areas we are resuming our work, but we must have the greenlight from the Taliban to do so.

To what extent are Afghans able to reach and cross borders in search of safety?

Most borders are closed. The only place where people can move in and out currently is at Spin Boldak  thats the border with Pakistan  where we have business as usual. Over the last couple of days, 20,000 people [have come] out, 19,000 people [have come] in. These are not necessarily asylum-seekers; this is a very busy border and these are the numbers that we have regularly. We have people who go to Pakistan for medical care, we have people who go for school, for work, to be with their families. And we have the same number of people coming into Afghanistan. For Spin Boldak, you exit through Kandahar, and our colleagues and our partners are saying there is free movement. There are checkpoints, but there are no major issues.

Other border points, for instance the border points with Iran  you need a travel document and a visa. This is why some people are using smugglers to move through irregular border points.

The borders with Tajikstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are closed for the movement of people and other borders are only open for commercial traffic such as trucks bringing supplies.

Theres been a lot of focus on evacuations from Kabul airport and offers of resettlement from various countries. For those who dont know, please can you explain the difference between evacuations and resettlement and UNHCRs different role in those two processes?

Different countries are evacuating their citizens, their permanent residents, as well as Afghans who worked for them. UNHCR is not involved right now. When it comes to resettlement is when we become involved, but we only do resettlement from the country of asylum. So, an Afghan citizen would have to leave the country of origin, go to a country of asylum and then, if there are no solutions in the country of asylum, then we look for a third country, and this is what we call resettlement. Its a lengthy process that involves a number of interviews and checks and, unfortunately, it is only available to a very small proportion of the most vulnerable refugees.

Which population groups are you most concerned about right now?

Journalists and other media professionals, people who are perceived to support the former government, people who are perceived to support international military forces and members of minority ethnic groups. For women and girls the policy is not yet clear, it differs from area to area. In some areas, were being told that women should stay home and cannot work. In other areas, depending on the work theyre doing, they are allowed to work.

What can be done to help Afghans in need right now?

The first thing that were asking is for countries to keep their borders open so that Afghans who want to leave and seek international protection can do so.

The second thing wed like to ask is support for people who are internally displaced  lifesaving assistance for those who had to leave their homes.

And then we also need support for regular programming as we call it  restoring the lives and livelihoods of people who are returning home; rehabilitation and construction of damaged infrastructure; ensuring people have livelihoods.

So, these are the three levels: first, keep the borders open, second provide emergency lifesaving assistance, and then lets rehabilitate and construct damaged infrastructure and facilities so people can return home.

All of these things will require support from the international community and currently, our response in Afghanistan is only 43 per cent funded.

I hope that the focus on Afghanistan will continue and that it will not go away after a few weeks. UNHCR is here for the long run.

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Meghalaya police seize Yaba tablets worth Rs. 1.8 crores

Shillong, Sep 9 (UNI) Meghalaya police has recovered 8.471 kg of Yaba tablets worth Rs. 1.8 crores and arrested three persons, including a woman, police said on Thursday.

Based on source information that a woman had recently received a consignment of suspected narcotics, the Anti Narcotics Task Force East Khasi Hills conducted a search at the residence of the suspect at Lapalang area and recovered the Yaba tablets, Superintendent of Police Sylvester Nongtnger said.

Further, on the leading of the accused two more suspects were arrested.
In this April 17, 2018 file photograph, Donnie Rowe sits in the Putnam County Courtroom in Eatonton where he later pleaded not guilty in the shooting deaths of a pair of state corrections officers during an escape from a prison transport bus on June 13, 2017, in Putnam County.
Ouagadougou, Sept 9 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Sep, 2021 ) :Floods and other natural disasters in the West African state of Burkina Faso have claimed at least nine lives and injured 87 people since August, authorities said Thursday.

More than 20,000 people have been affected and "major damage has been seen, notably with homes destroyed and public infrastructure damaged," according to minutes of a cabinet meeting.

Nine were killed, while 12 of the 87 injured were in a serious condition, a statement said.

Communication Minister Ousseni Tamboura, who is also government spokesman, said the victims either drowned or were crushed in unstable dwellings.

The disasters hit one-third of the provinces and 22 towns or cities.

Other Sahel countries also saw torrential rains and floods, such as neighbouring Niger, which has recorded 64 deaths and 70,000 people affected since June.

Tamboura said food, hygiene kits and anti-Covid protection had been distributed in Burkina Faso, as well as funds to help "vulnerable households" repair damage.

The rainy season, from May to mid-October, is often deadly, even when rainfall is moderate, because of poor drainage systems in many homes.

Last year, the government of the former French colony earmarked five billion CFA francs ($9 billion / 7.5 million Euros) in emergency funds for flooding victims. Thirteen people died.
PortauPrince, Sept 9 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Sep, 2021 ) :Haiti's government published a draft new constitution Wednesday and again plugged the idea of such a reform as the country remains mired in crisis since the assassination of President Jovenel Moise.

"A new constitution would not be a panacea to resolve all of our problems," Prime Minister Ariel Henry said.

"But if we manage to agree on this way of organizing governance in a more balanced and efficient way, it will be a point of departure for other agreements on the future of our country," he said.

Haitian politicians and everyday people are deeply divided over how their poor and disaster-prone nation should be run right now, as it tries to recover from the killing of Moise in his residence on July 7.

The government formed after the assassination, led by Henry, wants general elections to be held as soon as possible, while the opposition says there should be a transitional government for two years.

Besides legislative elections -- which actually should have been held in 2018 but were delayed -- and presidential elections, the government wants to push through a constitutional reform that Moise had already begun.

The new charter would strengthen the powers of the president, at the expense of parliament.

It would do away with the position of prime minister and create a vice presidency, which would be filled at the same time as the president in a single round of voting.

Such an arrangement is designed to help Haiti avoid the gridlock it is painfully used to in getting things done: now, every time there is a new government, parliament needs to approve the prime minister's policy agenda, and this is always tied up in endless debate among lawmakers.

Defenders of the new constitution say it would help battle the chronic problem of corruption by making it easier to hold trials in regular courts of government officials, cabinet ministers and the president once he or she leaves office.

As it stands now, the rarely used procedure for trying such officials is for the lower house of parliament to bring charges and the senate to hold a trial.

"Immunity is not synonymous with impunity," said Mona Jean, a lawyer who sits on the committee that drafted the new constitution. "A government job must not be a source of illicit enrichment." Henry did not specify how he thinks the new constitution should be voted on.

Moise had proposed a referendum, scheduled by the electoral administration for November 7 of this year, but the idea proved controversial, with critics saying it violates the current constitution.

It was written in 1987 after the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship and forbids "any popular consultation aimed at modifying the constitution through a referendum."
Havana, Sept 9 (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Sep, 2021 ) :For two months, Yunior Consuegra, 24, has been locked up along with hundreds of others arrested at historic anti-government protests in Cuba on July 11. His mother has seen him only once, and is beside herself with worry.

When she did manage to see him six days after his arrest, Mayda Yudith Sotolongo told AFP, her son had been "beaten" and had "bruises on his arms and back." The young man, a car mechanic, was born deaf in one hear and has a brain tumor. He told his mother by telephone that he had contracted the coronavirus in prison.

Consuegra is accused of public disorder, but has not yet been brought before a judge.

Her son, insisted Sotolongo, had gone out on the street that day "out of curiosity", and observing riot police clamping down on protesters, tried to make his way back home safely, but failed.

She herself spent four days in jail for insisting to see her son, telling police that if, to have information about him she had to go to prison herself, they should arrest her.

They did, but this brought Sotolongo no closer to her son.

From her humble home on the outskirts of Havana, the 50-year-old nurse has little option left but to pray for an end to her "worst nightmare".

Consuegra's story is far from unique.

Cuban forces arrested 949 people, according to the Cubalex rights group, in a massive clampdown on the biggest protests to hit the communist island since the revolution that brought Fidel Castro to power in 1959.

In a spontaneous outburst of anti-government sentiment, thousands took to the streets on July 11 in some 50 cities and towns, chanting "Freedom!" "Down with the dictatorship!" and "We are hungry!" Cubalex says 437 remain behind bars.

Charges include contempt, public disorder, vandalism and propagation of the coronavirus epidemic for allegedly marching without face masks.

The government has not provided detention numbers, but says 62 people had been tried by August 5. Sixty-one were found guilty and given sentences ranging from eight months to a year.

Forty-five have lodged appeals.

In the city of Santa Clara in central Cuba, the family of Randy Arteaga, 32, fret about his fate. He is accused of the crime of resistance.

"We are worried. He has been in prison for almost two months, without a trial date," his niece Misaday Arteaga, 21, told AFP.

"He has a six-year-old daughter."There are scores of similar testimonies, but several families contacted by AFP did not wish to speak for fear of reprisals.
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Afghanistan's neighboring countries including Pakistan, China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan during a Ministerial meeting on Wednesday exchanged views on the evolving situation in Afghanistan for a regional approach

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Sep, 2021 ) :Afghanistan's neighboring countries including Pakistan, China, Iran, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan during a Ministerial meeting on Wednesday exchanged views on the evolving situation in Afghanistan for a regional approach.

Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi chaired the Ministerial meeting on Afghan issue held virtually, a press release issued here by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

Sharing Pakistan's perspective, Foreign Minister Qureshi emphasized the importance of proceeding with a realistic approach in view of the changed reality in Afghanistan.

He added the well-being of the Afghan people must remain the focus, as they had suffered enormously due to prolonged conflict and instability for more than forty years.

The foreign minister underlined that a shared approach would help Afghanistan on its path to peace and stability and would result in enhanced economic integration and realization of connectivity projects.

Foreign Minister Qureshi drew the attention of the international community to addressing humanitarian crisis and preventing economic meltdown in Afghanistan as the key priorities.

He expressed the hope that the meeting would lay strong foundation for a robust regional engagement on the situation in Afghanistan.

The participants welcomed Pakistan's initiative to organize the meeting and concurred on the importance of the mechanism of Afghanistan's neighbouring countries to address common concerns and advance shared objectives.
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The National Command Authority (NCA) on Wednesday asserted that Pakistan would take all measures to ensure the strategic stability in the region without entering into an arms race

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th Sep, 2021 ) :The National Command Authority (NCA) on Wednesday asserted that Pakistan would take all measures to ensure the strategic stability in the region without entering into an arms race.

Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired 25th meeting of the NCA held here at the Headquarters of Strategic Plans Division.

All members of the NCA including Federal Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Defence, Finance and Interior; Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee; Chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force; and Director General Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) attended the meeting.

According to a press release issued here by the PM Media Wing, NCA expressed full confidence in the command and control systems as well as security measures in place to ensure comprehensive security of strategic assets of Pakistan.

The NCA re-affirmed that Pakistan as a responsible nuclear state would continue to contribute meaningfully towards the global efforts to improve nuclear security and nuclear non-proliferation measures.

A detailed briefing was given to NCA on evolving conflict dynamics in the region.

The NCA noted with concern the destabilizing massive arms build-up in the conventional and strategic domains.

The NCA viewed these developments as detrimental to peace and security and asserted that Pakistan would take all measures to ensure the strategic stability in the region without entering into an arms race.The NCA reiterated maintaining Full Spectrum Deterrence in line with the policy of Credible Minimum Deterrence and expressed satisfaction on the development of strategic capabilities.

The NCA appreciated high standards of training and operational readiness of the strategic forces, and appreciated the scientists and engineers whose dedicated contributions have enabled Pakistan to successfully pursue the desired objectives.
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VIENNA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) Austria vowed on Wednesday to throw an 18 million euro ($21 million) lifeline to vulnerable people in Afghanistan, where a half of the population depends on humanitarian aid for survival.

"To deal with the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan and the region the government agreed... to unlock 18 million Euros [in aid] from the foreign ministry's Foreign Disaster Fund immediately and without red tape," a statement read.

Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said Austria wanted to spend money in the region to avert another migrant flow to Europe.

His deputy, Werner Kogler, said this would the biggest disbursement since the disaster fund was set up in 2005.

The foreign ministry said 10 million euros would go to the UN refugee agency, 5 million to the UN Women agency for gender equality and 3 million to the UN World food Programme. Austria spent 11 million euros on humanitarian and development projects in Afghanistan over the past four years.
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BALYKCHY (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) The next Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) drills will be held in October in Tajikistan in close proximity to the Afghan border, CSTO Joint Staff Chief Anatoly Sidorov announced on Thursday.

"In addition to the collective rapid deployment forces, we have rapid reaction forces, this component of our organization is even more powerful. It will be involved in the exercises that we will hold at Tajikistan's training grounds in the immediate vicinity of the border with Afghanistan in October," Sidorov told reporters.
The UK branch of the environmental organization Greenpeace accused Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday of lying to the public about climate commitments, claiming that the British government secretly agreed to remove binding temperature commitments in the Paris climate change agreement from the UK-Australia trade deal

LONDON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th September, 2021) The UK branch of the environmental organization Greenpeace accused Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Wednesday of lying to the public about climate commitments, claiming that the British government secretly agreed to remove binding temperature commitments in the Paris climate change agreement from the UK-Australia trade deal.

"The UK government pledged to embed the environment at the very heart of trade, including supporting the Paris Agreement on climate and zero deforestation in supply chains. Signing an Australian trade deal with action on climate temperature commitments secretly removed is the polar opposite of everything Boris Johnson publicly pledged and rips the heart out of what the agreement stands for," Greenpeace UK executive director John Sauven said in a statement.

The environmental group claims to have seen a leaked email in which ministers Liz Truss (International Trade), David Frost (EU Relations) and Kwasi Kwarteng (business) are named as agreeing to drop any reference to the commitments in order to get the post-Brexit trade agreement with Australia.

It also recalled that last month Johnson wrote to Greenpeace and other environmental organizations to give them assurances that any trade deal with Australia would include a chapter on trade and environment.

"Details from the leaked email demonstrate that what Boris Johnson wrote in that letter was a lie," Greenpeace UK added.

According to Greenpeace, the Australian government is a "climate and environmental laggard," as it has committed to cut carbon emissions by only 26%-28% by 2030, and uses coal to generate more than half of its power.

Sky news broadcaster also claimed to have seen a leaked government email proving that British ministers agreed to bow to pressure from Australia on climate commitments.

Reacting to the reports, Labour lawmaker Anna McMorrin said it was "dreadful" and that, instead of leading by example as the host of the upcoming UN Climate Conference - or COP26 - to be held in Glasgow in November, the British government is "failing at every turn."
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) A high-level review meeting on Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir takes place in the Home Ministry in the wake of Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, government sources told Sputnik on Thursday.

The meeting was chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah and attended by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Army Chief Gen. MM Naravane, IB and RAW chiefs and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the sources said.

Security situation in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and bordering areas alongwith Pakistan was reviewed at the meeting.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will participate in a meeting of the foreign ministers' council of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) on September 15, and the meeting will focus on Afghanistan, Russian Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday.

"On September 15, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will take part in a joint meeting of the Council of Foreign Ministers, the Council of Defense Ministers and the Committee of Secretaries of Security Councils of the Collective Security Treaty Organization," Zakharova told a press conference, adding that the event will take place in Dushanbe and focus on "the situation in Afghanistan."
The United States plans to launch the James Webb Space Telescope on December 18 from French Guiana on an Ariane rocket supplied by the European Space Agency, NASA said on Wednesday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th September, 2021) The United States plans to launch the James Webb Space Telescope on December 18 from French Guiana on an Ariane rocket supplied by the European Space Agency, NASA said on Wednesday.

"The agency set the new target launch date in coordination with Arianespace after Webb recently and successfully completed its rigorous testing regimen - a major turning point for the mission," NASA said in a press release.

The new date also follows Arianespace successfully launching an Ariane 5 rocket from Europe's Spaceport on the northeastern coast of South America in July - the first for an Ariane 5 since August 2020, the release said.

NASA is currently packing the telescope in California for shipment to the Ariane launch site, the release added.

Unlike its predecessor, the Earth-orbiting Hubble telescope, the Webb observatory will orbit the sun about a million miles from Earth. From that position, the telescope will be able to explore every phase of cosmic history - from within our solar system to the most distant galaxies in the early universe, according to NASA.
(@FahadShabbir)

CAIRO (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) South Sudan's President Salva Kiir offered Ethiopia and Sudan to moderate a row over the dam that Ethiopia built on the Blue Nile, the South Sudanese foreign minister told Sputnik on Thursday.

"There has been a lot of impasse, things are not moving. He is ready to help, to mediate, because he doesn't believe in war," Beatrice Wani-Noah said on the sidelines of a cooperation forum in Cairo.

Sudan and Egypt fear that the upstream dam, Africa's largest hydroelectric power plant, will cut their water supplies once it becomes fully operational. Ethiopia hopes that the dam will increase cheap power generation.

The three have sat through many rounds of talks since 2011 in a bid to agree how the dam should be filled. Tensions rose in summer of last year after Ethiopia started filling a reservoir behind the dam without reaching a deal with the downstream neighbors.
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The Suez Canal Authority had to briefly suspend navigation, as a Panama-flagged bulk carrier, 225-meter (738 feet) long and 32-meter wide, got stuck, blocking four other vessels from entering the international waterway before it was successfully refloated, the Canal's authority said on Thursday

CAIRO (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) The Suez Canal Authority had to briefly suspend navigation, as a Panama-flagged bulk carrier, 225-meter (738 feet) long and 32-meter wide, got stuck, blocking four other vessels from entering the international waterway before it was successfully refloated, the Canal's authority said on Thursday.

"The Suez Canal Authority reacted quickly to the incident with the Coral Crystal container ship, which ran around and got stuck temporarily, the sixth column in the northern colony, at 54 km point in the canal," the press release said.

The container ship was successfully refloated shortly after it got stranded and resumed its voyage to Port Sudan, without affecting the navigation at the canal, according to a statement from Suez Canal Authority.

In March, when the giant Panama-flagged Ever Given cargo ship got stuck in the canal, the navigation through the vital international waterway was halted for almost a week, causing a serious disruption to global trade.
DUSHANBE (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin that Dushanbe will only support an inclusive government in Afghanistan, where seats for Tajik civil servants will be reserved, the country's foreign ministry said on Wednesday.

The remarks were made at a virtual meeting devoted to Afghanistan with over 20 foreign ministers, the UN, the EU, and NATO involved.

"The Foreign Minister stressed that Tajikistan will support only an inclusive government with the participation of all ethnic groups, in which the Tajiks of Afghanistan will take their deserve seats," the foreign ministry said in a statement.

The foreign minister also expressed concern over the violence against ethnic Tajiks in the Panjshir valley and called on the international community to pressure the Taliban (banned in Russia) to reach a political settlement with resistance groups, the statement added.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced they formed an interim government, with Taliban co-founder Mullah Hasan Akhund as its head.
Turkey and Egypt discussed the normalization of bilateral relations during the second round of exploratory consultations in Ankara, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday

ANKARA (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 08th September, 2021) Turkey and Egypt discussed the normalization of bilateral relations during the second round of exploratory consultations in Ankara, the Turkish Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.

The delegations, headed by Turkish Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sedat Onal and his Egyptian counterpart, Hamdi Sanad Loza, met in the Turkish capital on Tuesday and Wednesday for the second round of consultations. The first round took place on May 5-6 in Cairo.

"They addressed bilateral issues as well as a number of regional topics, such as the situation in Libya, Syria, Iraq, Palestine and the Eastern Mediterranean. The two sides agreed to continue these consultations confirming their desire to make progress in areas under discussion and the need for further steps to facilitate normalization of their relations," the ministry said in a statement.

Turkish-Egyptian relations deteriorated after the ousting of Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013 and the bloody clashes that followed. Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan harshly condemned the actions of the Egyptian military against supporters of the ousted president.

Turkey and Egypt recalled their ambassadors for consultations in August 2013, which resulted in Cairo declaring the Turkish ambassador persona non grata and Ankara replying in kind to the Egyptian ambassador.
Ukraine is ready to hold a meeting of the Normandy Four foreign ministers at any time, relevant effort intensified this fall, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Thursday

KIEV (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) Ukraine is ready to hold a meeting of the Normandy Four foreign ministers at any time, relevant effort intensified this fall, Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said on Thursday.

"Preparations for a meeting of the foreign affairs ministers of the Normandy-format countries continue. Our French and German colleagues are making effort to agree on a date that would be acceptable for all of us. I hope very much that [Russian Foreign Minister] Sergey Lavrov will confirm participation in the meeting.

We have much to talk about," Kuleba said at a briefing.

Kiev is ready to hold the meeting at any time, the minister assured.

"Advisers to the Normandy-format [countries] leaders held a videoconference yesterday, which means certain movement on the Normandy track resumed after the summer end. We are ready to hold the ministerial meeting as soon as possible, we do not even need any significant preparations, since w are ready to hold this conversation at any time," Kuleba continued.
(@FahadShabbir)

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 09th September, 2021) The percentage of workers in the United States who say their employer requires coronavirus vaccinations for all employees more than doubled in the past month, a new Gallup poll revealed on Thursday.

"Nineteen percent of US employees now say their employer has such a policy in order for them to return to the workplace, compared with 9 percent in the prior survey from July, and 6 percent or less before that," a press release explaining the poll said.

Fifty-five percent of employees, down from 62 percent in July, say their employer is encouraging but not requiring vaccinations, while 26 percent say their employer has not done either, the release added.

The latest results are from the August 16-22 COVID-19 tracking survey, based on web interviews with more than 1,800 US workers who are members of Gallup's nationally representative panel, according to the release.
Several hundred people gathered in Virginia state capital Richmond to witness the dismantling of the statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee from the State Capitol territory

RICHMOND (Virginia) (UrduPoint news / Sputnik - 08th September, 2021) Several hundred people gathered in Virginia state capital Richmond to witness the dismantling of the statue of Confederate general Robert E. Lee from the State Capitol territory.

The statue, installed in 1890, was removed after almost two hours of preparation when technical workers secured it with construction wires. A special crane lifted it from the pedestal and put it on the ground nearby.

People met the historical moment with applause and songs. "Hey, hey, goodbye," they chanted when the statue left its historical place.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam initiated the removal in June 2020, at the height of the protests against racism that erupted after the police murder of George Floyd in the state of Minnesota. However, getting legal approvals took several months.

"This is the step in the right direction," Northam told reporters after the removal was complete. "I want to thank the people of Richmond and all across the Commonwealth for doing the right thing."

He also noted that now Virginia will be a welcoming state to everyone.

The statue's torso was detached from the horse for further transportation to a secure storage, where the statue will stay until a further decision over its destiny, state's authorities said.

During the Civil War in the United States, Lee led the forces of the Confederacy - a group of southern states that fought for the preservation of the institution of slavery. Calls for the removal of monuments honoring Confederate figures became widespread after last years' protest movements against systemic racism following Floyd's death.
The World Health Organization (WHO), a Geneva-based UN agency, has called for an extension of a global moratorium on coronavirus booster doses, so as to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40 percent of its population

UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 9th Sep, 2021 ) :The World Health Organization (WHO), a Geneva-based UN agency, has called for an extension of a global moratorium on coronavirus booster doses, so as to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40 percent of its population.

"A month ago, I called for a global moratorium on booster doses at least until the end of September, to prioritize vaccinating the most at-risk people around the world who are yet to receive their first dose," said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters at a news briefing in Geneva on Wednesday.

"There has been little change in the global situation since then, so today I am calling for an extension of the moratorium until at least the end of the year, to enable every country to vaccinate at least 40 percent of its population," he added.

Tedros acknowledged that third doses might be necessary for at-risk groups, but said: "We do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated." In early August, WHO called for such a moratorium as countries had been deliberating whether there's a need for a booster jab against the fast-spreading Delta variant of the Covid-19.

Tedros, the WHO chief, also said he was "appalled" after hearing comments Tuesday from a top association of pharmaceutical manufacturers that vaccine supplies are high enough to allow for both booster shots for people in well-supplied countries and first jabs in poorer countries that face shortages. He said that's already been the case.

"I will not stay silent when companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the world's poor should be satisfied with leftovers," he told a news conference. "Because manufacturers have prioritized or been legally obliged to fulfill bilateral deals with rich countries willing to pay top Dollar, low income countries have been deprived of the tools to protect their people.

" However, the latest forecast from COVAX, the WHO-led international Covid-19 vaccine campaign, has pointed to a 25 percent reduction in the number of doses going through COVAX if without urgent action from G20 countries and vaccine manufacturers, according to Bruce Aylward, senior advisor to the WHO director-general, at the briefing.

"We are in a situation where there's an incredible outcry across the world about the huge equity gap on vaccines that's only gotten worse since May," he said.

According to WHO's statistics, globally 5.5 billion vaccine doses have been administered, but 80 percent have been administered in high- and upper-middle income countries. Even though high-income countries have promised to donate more than one billion doses, less than 15 percent of those doses have materialized.

"We don't want any more promises. We just want the vaccines," Tedros said.

He reiterated that third doses may be necessary for the most at-risk populations, but for now, "we do not want to see widespread use of boosters for healthy people who are fully vaccinated." He vowed not to stay silent when the companies and countries that control the global supply of vaccines think the world's poor should be satisfied with leftovers.

During the G20 Health Ministers' Meeting in Rome earlier this week, the WHO head requested countries to meet global vaccination targets by swapping near-term vaccine deliveries with COVAX, fulfilling dose-sharing pledges by the end of September, and facilitating the sharing of technology, know-how and intellectual property to support regional vaccine manufacturing.
Columns and letters of The Daily Beacon are the views of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Beacon or the Beacon's editorial staff.
Valdosta, GA (31601)

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Partly cloudy early followed by scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. High 84F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

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Valdosta, GA (31601)

Today

Partly to mostly cloudy with scattered showers and thunderstorms developing this afternoon. High around 85F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%..

Tonight

Scattered thunderstorms early, then variable clouds overnight with more showers at times. Low 72F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Pope Francis received the president of Chile, Sebastian Pinera, in an audience at the Vatican on Thursday morning, after which President Pinera met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and the Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher.

Holy See Press Office

This morning, Thursday 9 September 2021, His Excellency Mr. Sebastian Pinera Echenique, President of the Republic of Chile, was received in audience by the Holy Father Francis, and subsequently met with His Eminence Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and His Excellency Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States.

During the cordial discussions, appreciation was expressed for the existing good bilateral relations, as well as for the joint commitment to peace, social justice, and the protection of the poor, the marginalized and the most vulnerable.

The parties focused on the countrys domestic situation, paying particular attention to socio-economic development, the process of reform of the Constitution and relations with the Catholic Church. In this regard, serene cooperation was hoped for, in view of the contribution the Church makes for the good of the entire population in the charitable, educational and social spheres, especially in this critical period of the pandemic.

The talks also enabled an exchange of views on a number of matters relating to international and regional current affairs and the promotion of peace and human rights in the world.
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The United Nations agency U.N. Women expressed its profound disappointment Wednesday at the lack of female participants in Afghanistans new Taliban transitional government.

It is unacceptable that the international community would accept that women are not part of the government, U.N. Womens deputy representative for Afghanistan, Alison Davidian, told reporters via a video call from Kabul. Not just for Afghanistan, but for any country.

In announcing a new acting government on Tuesday, the Taliban  known for their severe repression of womens rights during their previous tenure in the 1990s and early 2000s  presented a slate of male-only ministers. The Ministry of Women's Affairs was also missing from the list.

Respect for womens rights is a litmus test for any governing authority and against which any governing authority must be judged, Davidian said. But with the announcement yesterday, the Taliban missed a critical opportunity to show the world that it is truly committed to building an inclusive and prosperous society.

U.N. Women has been working in the country for more than a decade, and its presence in Afghanistan is one of its largest, with some 75 national and international staff across the capital and five provincial offices.

But the road to more freedoms has been a slow one, with women still overwhelmingly illiterate and underrepresented in the workforce. The 2004 constitution enshrined gender equality as a principle, and women who have enjoyed nearly two decades of progress do not want to see that disappear. There has also been progress to establish laws making violence against women illegal.

Fighting back

Davidian said their extensive network of female civil society, human rights defenders and leaders has reported worrying rights rollbacks, such as women not being allowed to go to work or run errands without a male relative escorting them.

For the past week, women have been taking to the streets demanding their rights.

We are seeing through the protests that Afghan women will not give up their rights; they will not be erased, Davidian said.

She urged the international community to fund women-led civil society organizations to protect gains.

This is the engine for progress. These are the drivers for progress and accountability, she said.


The World Health Organization says genomic sequencing capability is being improved in Africa to better detect, monitor and respond to COVID-19 mutations.

Several variants of the coronavirus are circulating in African countries. The Delta variant is, by far, the most contagious and virulent. The variants have sparked flare-ups of this deadly disease. However, the Delta variant is most responsible for prolonging Africas third pandemic wave.

The World Health Organization says Africas COVID-19 third wave is now tapering off after a two-month surge, with the number of new cases decreasing by 23% last week. The World Health Organization says the case load remains extremely high, though, with more than 165,000 new weekly cases reported.

WHO Regional Director for Africa Matshidiso Moeti says the WHO is supporting countries in scaling up pathogen surveillance through genome sequencing. She says together with the South African National Bioinformatics Institute, the WHO is launching a new Regional Center of Excellence for Genomic Surveillance in Cape Town.

Knowing which variants are circulating and where is critical for informing effective response operations  The continent lags far behind the rest of the world when it comes to sequencing, accounting for only 1% of over 3 million COVID-19 sequences conducted worldwide. So, this ground-breaking initiative aims to initially support 14 Southern African countries to scale up their genomic sequencing by 15-fold each month, she said.

Moeti says analysis will shed light on the pathways COVID-19 is using to spread into communities. On the vaccine front, she notes Africa still lags far behind the worlds richer nations in inoculating its inhabitants.

In the past week, the COVAX Facility has delivered over 5 million doses to African countries. I was saddened to read that three times as many doses have been thrown away in the United States alone  15 million doses since March 2021. This is enough vaccines to cover everyone over 18 years in Liberia, Mauritania, and the Gambia, for example, she said.

Moeti says high-income countries have not kept their pledges to share 1 billion doses globally. So far, she says only 120 million doses have been released.

She notes only 3% of the continents 1.2 billion people are fully vaccinated. She says Africa has passed the sad milestone of 200,000 lives lost to the coronavirus, lives that could have been saved had they received a dose of the vaccine.


A greater share of U.S. soldiers survived the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq than those who fought in previous wars. Advances in medicine and new concepts about trauma care over the past 20 years have made the difference. VOA's Carol Pearson reports on the most dramatic advances.
The leader of Guineas main opposition party, the Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea (UFDG), says the countrys September 5 coup was justified because President Alpha Conde was illegitimate after he changed the constitution to run for a third term.

Speaking to VOAs James Butty in an exclusive interview through an interpreter, Cellou Dalein Diallo said all the ills of Guinean society cited by the military junta had been identified and denounced by his party.

Asked if he would personally participate in a unity government if the military were to ask him to do so, Diallo said he would personally not join a transitional government but would designate members of his party to take part.

Diallo claimed to have won the October 2020 presidential election, but the electoral commission declared Conde the winner, and the Guinean Supreme Court validated the results in favor of President Conde.

Diallo said he would run again for president in a new election.

The election followed a March 2020 constitutional referendum that paved the way for Conde, 83, to extend his stay in office. The opposition said at least 21 people were killed during protests against the referendum in Nzerekore, Guineas second largest city. The Guinean government refuted the allegations.

Conde won the 2010 and 2015 elections, but critics said he became increasingly authoritarian.

Diallo told VOA he would highly recommend that the fight against corruption and human rights abuses should be a top priority for the military government. He said the military junta should make it possible for victims of human rights abuses during the Conde administration to get justice.

Regional bloc ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) has condemned the September 5 coup. As the group meets this Thursday in an emergency summit to discuss the military takeover in Guinea, Diallo said he hopes ECOWAS will help Guinea put together a transition process that leads to a free and fair election.
James Butty

The vice president of the Zimbabwe Rural Teachers Union says while he welcomes the governments desire to get all Zimbabweans vaccinated for COVID-19, he feels the idea of a mandate for government workers may violate their constitutional rights.

Gibson Mushangu says every Zimbabwean has a constitutional right to accept or deny taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

This week, Zimbabwe Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi reportedly said government workers who do not want to be vaccinated against COVID-19 should resign from their government jobs.

He said the government did not intend to force citizens to take the vaccine, but that each Zimbabwean had a responsibility to the nation.

Mushangu says the government could have first educated the public about the importance of vaccination.

According to the Ministry of Health, 14 Zimbabweans succumbed to COVID-19 yesterday and 135 tested positive for coronavirus. The country has recorded 125,931 cases since March last year, 117,822 recoveries and 4,517 deaths. To date, a total of 2,782,103 people have been vaccinated against COVID-19.
The Nigerian army said Thursday that its troops had arrested a high-profile member of the Boko Haram extremist group in northern Borno State, where the rebels' 12-year insurgency is concentrated.

Army spokesman Onyema Nwachukwu said Yawi Modu was detained along the Damboa-Wajiroko road, a notorious route where both the extremists and Nigerian troops have recorded casualties over the years.

Nwachukwu said the army also raided two locations in Borno and a neighboring area where improvised explosive devices materials were made. The sites were believed to have been used by Boko Haram and its breakaway faction Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP).

He did not provide further details regarding the operation, other than saying 251 bags of urea fertilizer used in making explosives were also recovered and "two notorious Boko Haram terrorists" arrested.

In some parts of northeast Nigeria, authorities have banned the importation of urea fertilizer, citing its use by extremists in making bombs.

The reported arrests come a week after the army said nearly 6,000 members of the jihadi group surrendered in the northeast, marking one of the largest defections since the insurgency began there 12 years ago.

Nwachukwu said the "obvious depletion" faced by the extremists is prompting them to be "desperately acquiring IED materials to make explosive devices with which to unleash terror on innocent civilians."

The U.N. Development Program estimates that the conflict has resulted in 350,000 deaths, with 314,000 of those from indirect causes.
Taliban authorities allowed a Qatari charter flight to leave for Doha from the Kabul airport Thursday, the first flight for evacuees to take off since the United States ended its military operation in Afghanistan on August 31.



Today, the United States government facilitated the departure of U.S citizens and lawful permanent residents on a chartered Qatar Airways flight from Hamid Karzai International Airport. We can confirm that flight has safely landed in Qatar, said National Security Council spokesperson Emily Horne in a statement.

The Taliban have been cooperative in facilitating the departure of American citizens and lawful permanent residents on charter flights from HKIA. They have shown flexibility, and they have been businesslike and professional in our dealings with them in this effort. This is a positive first step.



Horne added that the U.S. will continue these efforts to facilitate the safe and orderly travel of American citizens, lawful permanent residents, and Afghans who worked for us and wish to leave Afghanistan.



Multiple media reports say roughly 200 people were on board the flight Thursday, but VOA has not been able to independently verify the number.



Qatar's special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani spoke to reporters at the Hamid Karzai International Airport Thursday, stressing that it was not an evacuation flight but stating that Americans and other Westerners were on board.



The Qatari envoy said there may be another flight Friday and people should feel that this is normal.

Speaking alongside al-Qahtani, Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said that experts from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates have been working to get airport systems back up and running for commercial flights.



Mujahid said he expected the entire airport operation to be in place soon, enabling both domestic as well as international flights to resume.



In a statement to VOA, a State Department spokesperson declined to provide additional details regarding the Thursday flight out of Kabul.



As we have said, our efforts to assist U.S. citizens and others to whom we have a special commitment are ongoing, but we arent in a position to share additional details at this time, the spokesperson said.



U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin met with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani in Doha, earlier this week seeking support for the evacuation of Americans and at-risk Afghans left behind in Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover.



The administration said it also has been working with the Qataris to get flights operational from Kabul.



We're working through all of these components, and it's the reason why the secretary of State is on the ground, in the region, discussing and negotiating as we speak, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told VOA Wednesday.



Thousands left behind



However, there are many at-risk Afghans as well as some Americans still stranded in Afghanistan, said Hazami Barmada, an independent humanitarian assisting in evacuation efforts. Estimates vary of how many Afghans qualify for special visas for their work with the United States or because of their status as vulnerable groups but they are believed to number in the thousands.



As of Thursday evening local time in the city of Mazar-e-Sharif, at least one flight of 705 people, including nine Americans, nine U.S. legal permanent residents and 170 holders of the Special Immigrant Visa are still waiting for the green light to depart, Barmada told VOA. SIVs, as theyre commonly referred to, are visas for Afghans working as interpreters and other positions supporting the 20-year U.S. operation there.



We understand that there's a lot of negotiations happening currently between the State Department and the Taliban from what we understand, through the negotiator. And we're really hoping that our flights are not left behind, especially since they've already had the promise of departure, Barmada said.



It is unclear how many charter flights are awaiting departure in Mazar-e-Sharif. A State Department official said they are aware of only two charter planes in Afghanistan trying to leave.



On Wednesday U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken laid the blame for the delayed departures on the Taliban.



As of now, the Taliban are not permitting the charter flights to depart, Blinken told reporters at Ramstein Air Base in Germany. Weve made clear to all parties, we made clear to the Taliban, that these charters need to be able to depart, and we continue every day, virtually every hour, to work on that.



Concerns regarding foreign nationals unable to leave Afghanistan are misplaced, VOA was told Thursday by Bilal Karimi, a member of Taliban Cultural Commission.



Routine commercial flights remain suspended but as soon as they are resumed anyone intending to leave or come into the country and has with valid documents, passports and visas will be free to do so, he said.

Charter flights confusion



While the U.S. insists it has no role in preventing flights from departing, the administration also maintains that the lack of American personnel on the ground and inability to verify passengers documentation and flight manifests tare among the main reasons these flights have not been able to take off.



So, a number of these planes, they may have a handful of American citizens, but they may have several hundred individuals where we don't have manifests for them, we don't know what the security protocols are for them, we don't know what their documentation is, the White House press secretary told reporters Wednesday.



Are we going to allow a plane with hundreds of people, where we don't know who they are, we don't know what security protocols have been put in place, to land on a U.S. military base? Psaki asked.



Blinken acknowledged "a fair amount of confusion" around charter flights and said the United States government is "working to do everything in our power to support those flights and to get them off the ground."



The Taliban took control of Kabul on August 15, marking the end of a stunning military campaign that overran most of Afghanistan.



The return to power of the fundamentalist movement has worried thousands of Afghans, mostly educated and those who worked with international forces, that they may face Taliban reprisals. These locals want to leave the country, but Taliban leaders are urging them to remain and help them in the reconstruction of Afghanistan to prevent an economic meltdown.



The Taliban announced their caretaker government Tuesday, but some of their controversial actions, including an alleged crackdown on journalists and anti-Taliban protests, already have raised doubts about whether the Islamist movement will live up to its commitments to protect human rights and not retaliate against former Afghan government officials.



VOA's Nike Ching contributed to this report.


FILE - In this March 7, 2021 file photo, activists shout slogans, as protesters and activists gather at Republique square on the eve of the International Women's Day in Paris. France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday. The measure will also include free medical visits around contraception, and will start Jan. 1, 2022
Stowe, VT (05672)

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Scattered thunderstorms developing this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High near 75F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

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Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Stowe, VT (05672)

Today

Thunderstorms - a few could contain very heavy rain, especially this afternoon. A few storms may be severe. High around 75F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

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Showers early, then cloudy overnight. Low 52F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
After waiting in line for three hours to park her vehicle at the Elements Music and Arts Festival in Lakewood, Pennsylvania, on Friday, September 3, attendee Blair Hemlepp encountered something odd when she finally got to the front of the line  a parking attendant told her to manifest an available spot.

Unsurprisingly, it didnt work. There was no spot.

Instead, Hemlepp had to park diagonally down a walking trail. She and her group of friends then trekked half a mile to where shuttles were supposed to drive them to the festival grounds, but instead, another worker greeted the group and informed them that the shuttle spot had moved another half mile or so down the mountain. Hemlepp and thousands of her fellow festivalgoers headed down the muddy hill, lugging their camping gear, until they reached a giant grassy lot. They werent given much instruction there, either.

There was some guy with a megaphone screaming profanities about, like, his penis or something, but he wasnt actually telling anybody what to do, Hemlepp says. Another volunteer told her to sleep in her car and try again the next day.

So, she and her group sat in a line of sorts for eight hours, before learning there were no more shuttles coming. She lugged her gear back up the mountain, got in her car, and headed to a hotel about an hour away. She never made it to the three-day festival.

Hemlepp is just one of possibly thousands who had an awful experience at the music, arts, and camping festival, which took place Friday through Monday over Labor Day weekend, with a lineup of EDM artists including Diplo, CloZee, Griz, and Chris Lake. The event, held on 150 acres of private land about three hours outside of New York City, began as a one-day event in 2013 and upgraded to a three-day event by 2017. This year, about 7,000 fans attended. Elements social-media pages are now flooded with those same people demanding a refund. There are zero staff helping and the few volunteers have no clue whats going on, (We) were so dehydrated because the free water was out or we had to pay 4$ for a small bottle of water, and This festival was an unmitigated disaster, were just some of the comments left on Instagram throughout the weekend. Many compared the situation to the Fyre Festival fiasco.

Elements Festival  I stepped away for a few days after the insanity of last week, but coming back to some absolute horror stories this weekend including 16 hour waits to access camping that was full, cars completely stuck in mud from Ida's rains + much more.



See comments below. pic.twitter.com/jokD3MmTOk  Festive Owl (@TheFestiveOwl) September 5, 2021

Between tickets, parking passes, and a hotel stay, Hemlepp says she spent about $1,500 on the festival. She emailed the festival asking for a refund but hasnt heard back.

A representative from Elements told Vulture on Wednesday that because of Hurricane Ida, which hit the area earlier in the week, the festival was unable to use two-thirds of its parking area and had to relocate its primary lots on Friday. No one from our team was instructed to tell anyone to sleep in their cars, a rep told Vulture. The festival disputes all other claims of negligence and mismanagement.

Two other attendees, Saliana Rosenfield and Landis Hennessy, did make it inside the festival, but said that by Saturday morning the festival had run out of filtered water to drink and the Porta Potties were full, leaving people to go to the bathroom outside. Space was limited, so some attendees set up their campsites near the overfilled Porta Potties. Defeated by the bad experience, Rosenfield and Hennessy left at 8 p.m. Sunday. On their way out, their car got stuck in the mud; they had to pay a local $80 to tow it out. Three hours later, they were free.

An Elements rep told Vulture that some areas of the parking were saturated from the rain and they had a team of towing vehicles prepared to assist with any car that was stuck. Every vehicle was able to leave by the end of the festival, the rep said, and added that though certain restroom areas were not serviced as frequently as they could have been by our vendor, there were multiple restroom banks available at all times.

The line that we waited in for 6+ hours, causing us to miss all of Fridays lineup pic.twitter.com/YU24u3LC9j  claudibles (@richhomieclauds) September 5, 2021

My car getting towed (with construction equipment) through the mud that they charged us $110 to park in pic.twitter.com/WWlVcYLfNo  claudibles (@richhomieclauds) September 5, 2021

Hi everyone  we would like to take a moment to sincerely apologize for how difficult it was to get into the festival yesterday for some of our community. pic.twitter.com/IAOoqUUOrU  Elements Music & Arts Festival (@elementsfestnyc) September 4, 2021

Kolby, an attendee who declined to give his last name for professional reasons, says he wants a refund because the festival didnt offer the activities it promised. The site had a lake, which the festival advertised as a place to swim while listening to music played on the nearby Water Stage. But at some point Saturday, Kolby says two EMTs showed up and began instructing everyone to get out of the water, because all water-related activities were canceled.

They started screaming Shark!, Kolby says. They started screaming all sorts of different things. They asked everyone on land on the count of three to yell, Get out of the water! with them, because they had no way to project their voices other than yelling.

Kolby heard rumors about why they had to evacuate the lake  because of insufficient staffing, or a dangerous algae bloom, or that one of the septic tanks had burst and drained into the lake  but nothing was confirmed. The Northern Wayne Fire Company did not return our request for more information, and the Pennsylvania State Police say they did not receive any calls from the festival.

All advertised activities were allowed during the weekend, an Elements rep told Vulture. People were allowed in the lake within the safest area bordered by the dock.

In 2020, Forbes interviewed Elements Festival co-founders Timothy Monkiewicz and Brett Herman about how they planned to host a safe festival in the middle of a pandemic. The two told Forbes they created a consulting service company, called Tested Contained Retreats, to ensure attendees were COVID-19-free. For this years festival, Elements attendees had to prove they had a negative COVID-19 test or were vaccinated, according to its website, but when it came time to present the proof, Kolby says the festival workers didnt even scan the QR code, leaving him nervous about being in such a large crowd. On top of that, there were no sanitation stations anywhere, he says. One attendee posted on Facebook that since returning from Elements, they had tested positive for COVID-19.

We used CrowdPass to verify attendees during the changeover, and performed offline checks when there were issues with internet availability, an Elements rep told Vulture.

Another attendee, Emily L., who declined to give her last name for professional reasons, is vegetarian and said the festival ran out of food options for her, so she ended up eating just the bananas and Nutella she brought. According to the festivals website, attendees were allowed to bring one factory-sealed water bottle, no larger than one liter, because refill stations would be available (according to Emily, there were only three), but when the festival ran out of water, Emily says she found some water bottles near a stage and passed them out to attendees.

Although wait times were longer than we had expected, food and water were available throughout the event, an Elements rep told Vulture.

absolute shit show we waited over 10 hours and never got in pic.twitter.com/Vtvxwg5k6L     .  (@ifakeitsoreal) September 5, 2021

Selected comments from the Elements Facebook group and Instagram page pic.twitter.com/tUMF4QY0Au  claudibles (@richhomieclauds) September 5, 2021

Emily is a regular of festivals; shes been to about 15 total and she likes to rate them based on logistics and safety, music production, and overall vibes. She didnt rate Elements particularly well.

Based on my time with my friends and the social aspect, I would give it a seven [out of ten]. In terms of music and art, that was also a seven. Amazing. Logistics? Zero, she says.

Frank Prochilo, a civil litigation attorney in New York, is gathering information from Elements attendees to look into the possibility of filing a lawsuit. He says that because the festival didnt live up to its promises, like having water and food, attendees deserve compensation and a full refund.

With this festival, Ive never seen anything like this before, Prochilo says.

(That might not be entirely true, of course, if you remember 2017s Fyre Festival, a music festival executed so poorly that the founder, Billy McFarland, pleaded guilty to one count of committing wire fraud to defraud investors and attendees. While attendees were promised luxury villas and nice meals, they received FEMA tents and cheese sandwiches. The disaster produced two documentaries.)

The Elements team released a statement apologizing for any disappointments or logistical issues. We have set up a dedicated email address at elements2021@elementsfest.us, where we welcome your comments and will respond to every email we receive, part of the statement reads.

A statement from our team. pic.twitter.com/cBpuAQs88F  Elements Music & Arts Festival (@elementsfestnyc) September 8, 2021

This is a developing story and will be updated accordingly.
Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photos by Publishers

For many of us, 2021 feels like a year dedicated to recovery mode, the aftermath of something life-changing and unpredictable where we now have the opportunity to start to pick up the pieces from the year before. Of course the publishing industry, like so many others, was negatively impacted in 2020, but one of the few genres that continued to carve out a path forward (like it always has) was romance.

In some ways, it shouldnt be surprising that the romance genre still found a way to thrive during the coronavirus pandemic and its lingering effects on our world. The essential tenets of the genre  a central love story and an emotionally satisfying resolution (typically referred to in shorthand as a HEA, for Happily Ever After, or HFN, for Happy For Now)  are grounded in hope and happiness. In a world of uncertainty, readers have clung to books that will give them the promise of their basic premise, and this year featured so many that served as a light in the darkness. (This list will be updated on a monthly basis.)

For the Love of April French by Penny Aimes $15 $15 Photo: Publisher For the Love of April French is a romance that seems like a dichotomy at first glance; how can a book about BDSM and kink manage to also be one of the sweetest stories ever written? But thats what makes Aimess work so perfect here. Its effortlessly inclusive and insightful, accessible for those who may not be very familiar with the kink lifestyle, illustrates an emotionally mature relationship between two people who have realistic and relatable struggles, and ultimately reminds us of what the romance genre is capable of  which, actually, is just about anything. April French starts off as a character who is relationship-avoidant, and most of the time shes just the last fling for someone else right before they meet the One. But when she strikes up a conversation with Dennis Martin at her local kink club and they end up spending one incredible night together, keeping it casual might not necessarily be in the cards anymore. Can April let down her guard to let herself have the love and commitment she hasnt even known shes been craving all along? $15 at Amazon Buy $15 at Amazon Buy

Bombshell by Sarah MacLean $7 $7 Photo: Publisher MacLean kicks off a brand-new series with a bang  and a bold, assertive heroine who embraces her scandalous reputation proudly and without shame. Lady Sesily Talbot is used to possessing a certain notoriety, but now, shes using it to her advantage. As a key member of a clandestine girl gang whose main mission is to take down unrepentantly terrible men, shes wielding her wiles in ways that the majority of people in society circles would never expect. The only hiccup? The return of Caleb Calhoun, the American who broke her heart years ago and has somehow made his way into her orbit again. Of course, we know these two are destined to collide eventually, but how it happens is in particularly incendiary fashion. MacLean is a master at weaving passion and vulnerability equally in her characters, and Bombshell serves as proof that when it comes to historical romance, shes one of the best for all these reasons and then some. $7 at Amazon Buy $7 at Amazon Buy

Heartbreak For Hire, by Sonia Hartl $15 $17 now 12% off $15 Photo: Publisher If Charlies Angels were actually a breakup agency, youve already got a partial sense of Hartls charming, hilarious, and devastatingly hot adult romance debut. Brinkley Saunders is part of a company that offers a specialized service to jilted exes, unhappy professionals, or anyone with an ax to grind against someone whos wronged them: revenge. Its not a totally glamorous job, but it pays the bills, and its something to do while she works on nailing down her longtime dream of having her own art gallery where she can show off her paintings. Everything seems to be going to plan, until Brinkleys boss decides that their heartbreak agency could use a little more male energy  and when Brinkley comes face-to-face with her new co-worker, she discovers that Mark is someone she was hired to carry out revenge against once upon a time. Whats more? She came way too close to breaking one of her major rules that night: Never sleep with a target. Turns out that Brinkleys attraction to Mark has never really gone away, either, but beneath the playful banter and bickering, theres a lot of trust that needs to be rebuilt between them on both an emotional and physical level. Hartl skillfully manages to merge a romance with a story of learning to love and prioritize ones self, all while tackling relatable workplace issues head-on, and the end result is a rom-com that really needs the adaptation treatment ASAP. $15 at Amazon Buy $15 at Amazon Buy

It Happened One Summer, by Tessa Bailey $13 $16 now 19% off $13 Photo: Publisher For those who are still mourning the end of Schitts Creek  and also wanted Alexis Rose (Annie Murphy) to get her own happily-ever-after by seriess end  Baileys rom-com scratches that itch and then some. It Happened One Summer is packed full with the trademarks shes best known for as an author, including scorchingly steamy romantic tension and a hero who could get his own Ph.D. in dirty talk. Hollywood It girl Piper Bellinger has always been known for making headlines, but when her latest flavor of the month breaks her heart, she decides to throw a slightly illegal rooftop party  which is the last straw where her stepfathers patience with her antics is concerned. Being banished to a beach town in the Pacific Northwest is punishment enough, but Piper and her sister have also been charged with renovating the dive bar that used to belong to their late father, a local hero in Westport. The first time Piper runs into big and burly sea captain Brendan, its loathing at first sight  although keeping her distance is easier said than done in a small town like this, and as they encounter one another more and more, the two start to become real proof of the opposites attract concept in action. The only question that lingers is whether this will just be a sexy summer fling or possibly something more. $13 at Amazon Buy $13 at Amazon Buy

Incense and Sensibility, by Sonali Dev $12 $16 now 25% off $12 Photo: Publisher The latest installment in the Rajes series (each of which takes a Jane Austen title and completely flips it on its head) is quite possibly its most moving and profound, tackling themes of grief and trauma for characters that must embrace self-discovery and understanding before they can heal  and ultimately, reconnect with one another for an utterly sweeping slow burn of a romance. Yash Raje is driven by the dream of becoming Californias first Indian governor, and hes prioritized that goal over just about everything else in his life. After he survives an attack on his life at a rally, Yash begins to lose hold of the composure he thought he possessed  but if his emotional struggles get out, it could be a PR nightmare. Enter India Dashwood, close family friend and best friend to Yashs sister, whos professionally qualified to help this ambitious man manage his stress levels. But Yash and India have their own shared secret, too: a brief night of intimacy and passion between them ten years ago, one that Yash cant help but remember the second India walks back into his life again. Their journey to a happy ending is one filled with angst and emotion, and Devs reimagining transcends the classic novel to become its own iconic text in the process. $12 at Amazon Buy $12 at Amazon Buy

The Queer Principles of Kit Webb, by Cat Sebastian $14 $16 now 13% off $14 Photo: Publisher Some historical romance novels are truly exemplary not just because of the deserved happy ending they offer their characters, but the established systems in place they masterfully interrogate in the process. Sebastians trade debut, The Queer Principles of Kit Webb, manages to be so many different things at once: a charming and mesmerizing romance, a comedic heist novel that perfectly encapsulates the Be Gay Do Crimes slogan, and a story that wrestles on the page with class difference and the inherent privilege that comes with wealth and possessions. Percy, Lord Holland is seeking a way to bring about his own fathers downfall, but in order to do that, he needs to hire someone skilled in procuring items in a most illegal manner. Enter: Kit Webb, a mostly retired highwayman who owns a coffee shop and has no interest in returning to his former line of work, thank you very much  but he does begrudgingly agree to teach Percy how to pull off the job. Too bad all of those sparring and thieving lessons will only bring them closer together, to a point where Kit comes to the very distressing conclusion that he cant sit idly by while Percy risks his life  not while he himself is beginning to possess very real feelings for this nobleman and aspiring highway robber. $14 at Amazon Buy $14 at Amazon Buy

Neon Gods, by Katee Robert $13 $15 now 13% off $13 Photo: Publisher Mythological and fairy-tale retellings are almost a dime a dozen in romance, but the truth is theres a reason these iconic legends are mined over and over again  with each revamping as memorable as the last. One of the undeniable standouts of 2021, however, goes to Katee Roberts modern and very sexy reinterpretation of the Hades and Persephone story in Neon Gods, the first in her planned Dark Olympus series. In this world, the gods in question are merely avatars for powerful people, with each holding control over a certain territory. There has been a tentative peace between those who have taken the titles of Zeus and Hades for some time  at least until society princess Persephone Dimitriou, confronted by the possibility of an arranged marriage to the current Zeus, flees to the forbidden undercity. Finding herself the unwitting guest of the mysterious Hades is one thing; pretending to be his in order to thwart Zeus might be more than shes entirely prepared for. The two strike a bargain with mutual vengeance in mind, but in binding themselves together against a common enemy, theyll find true partnership (and love) where they least expect it. $13 at Amazon Buy $13 at Amazon Buy

Seven Days in June, by Tia Williams $17 $27 now 37% off $17 Photo: Publisher Eva Mercy is a single mother and successful author of a best-selling Twilight-esque paranormal romance series, but shes feeling burned out on her current career trajectory and wants to pursue other stories for a change. When she unexpectedly encounters literary darling and famous recluse Shane Hall at a writers event, the two are practically propelled back in time to the wild week of infatuation they had when they were teenagers, a love affair that was forced to end almost as instantaneously as it began. Meanwhile, the rest of the world doesnt know that theyve been using one another as inspiration for each others books for years. Second-chance romances are a tough needle to thread; the writer has to weave both past and present together, crafting two different love stories that are equally believable in pursuit of that inevitable happily-ever-after that occurs by the final page. Seven Days in June is about the intoxicating, all-consuming power of first love, of young love, but its also about the deepening and complicated love between two people who run into each other years later, hearts still tender and bruised, and recognize that their feelings for one another have become something even stronger with time. $17 at Amazon Buy $17 at Amazon Buy

The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes by Xio Axelrod $8 $15 now 47% off $8 Photo: Publisher The Girl with Stars in Her Eyes isnt just a romance novel about rock music; its a book that literally sings, with lyrical prose that will keep you turning page after page well into the night. Antonia Toni Bennett (and yes, shes heard all the jokes) grew up with mostly just a guitar for company. When a 12-year-old Toni meets 13-year-old Sebastian Quick, they make a pact to escape their small town together  but when he turns 18 he bails out by himself and leaves her behind. Years later, Toni is still living her dream as a performer, even if shes only playing in local Philadelphia bars and laying in backup tracks on other artists albums. Getting the chance to try out for a spot in the Lillys, one of the hottest new girl bands out there, is a dream opportunity  until she runs into her old childhood friend Seb and realizes hes one of the people who could either make or break her dream. Never mind the fact that shes never fully forgiven him for abandoning her all those years ago, either. Whether you want an agonizingly good slow-burn romance, an ode to indie rock, or some amalgam of the two, this novel is as impossible to get out of your head as any earworm  but you should definitely read it with the music that was written specifically to accompany the book! $8 at Amazon Buy $8 at Amazon Buy

Happy Endings by Thien-Kim Lan $13 $16 now 19% off $13 Photo: Publisher Lams debut romance is a genuine gift and a reminder of the fact that romances can be just as much about second chances as they are about falling in love for the very first time. Trixie Nguyen is a refreshing, sex-positive heroine who makes a living selling adult toys. She genuinely adores her job instructing women about how to make sex a more pleasurable experience. Making a fresh start in Washington, D.C., after a bad breakup feels like the best next step  but then she comes face-to-face with Andre Walker, her ex, tending bar at her very first pop-up event! As if that werent enough, it turns out Andre originally dumped her via a Post-It note, which is obviously going to demand some serious groveling. At first, Trixie and Andre decide not to pick up where they left off but to try something new: being friends with benefits. The only problem is that theyre reminded all too quickly of just how well they work together, both in and out of the bedroom, and soon the benefits start to outweigh the desire to keep their situation strictly friendly. When Trixie sets her sights on a new co-op initiative in the neighborhood, Andres concerned itll threaten the legacy of his late mothers restaurant, and the two are left with a decision to make between business and pleasure  as well as the real possibility of starting over together. $13 at Amazon Buy $13 at Amazon Buy

People We Meet on Vacation $10 $16 now 38% off $10 Photo: Publisher In a landscape that cant even technically be described as post-pandemic yet, where many of us are longing for the ability to escape the quarantine of our homes and simply go places, theres something about Henrys latest romance that offers both immense satisfaction and an intense hunger for travel and making lasting memories with the people we love. Poppy and Alex have arguably nothing in common, but theyve been best friends for years, and they celebrate their long-distance dynamic in a very specific way: every summer, they take a vacation together. Or they did until two years ago, when one fateful summer night changed everything between them, and they havent spoken since. Now, Poppys navigating feelings of millennial ennui at her job, but she does remember the last time she was truly happy: on a trip with Alex. Convincing her former BFF to take one more trip with her is almost the easy part; realizing theres still one huge secret thats been hanging over their entire friendship is what could drive them apart forever. In her follow-up to the equally compelling Beach Read, Henry has solidified a name for herself as an author with the ability to write romances that burst with both humor and emotional yearning. $10 at Amazon Buy $10 at Amazon Buy

Hot Copy, by Ruby Barrett $6 $6 Photo: Publisher Office romances can be a tricky tightrope to navigate, especially between two characters where the playing field isnt entirely level, but Barretts rom-com debut is a refreshing take on navigating romance in the workplace and confronting the obvious power dynamic issues with realism and care. Corinne Blunt is used to people having preconceived notions about her ice-queen status, but shes only gotten to the executive level by operating in a certain light. Of course shes always had some level of awareness around it, but when she overhears someone laughing at a co-worker giving her an especially rude nickname, she decides to wield her authority against the assumed offender: new intern Wesley Chambers. To Corinnes chagrin, however, Wesley is all too happy to work hard and try to prove himself to his new boss, and the warmth he exudes soon proves strong and sincere enough to melt the ice shes built up around her heart too. This book exemplifies all of the best parts of the genre, with sweetness and steaminess abounding in equal measure. $6 at Amazon Buy $6 at Amazon Buy

The Intimacy Experiment, by Rosie Danan $11 $16 now 31% off $11 Photo: Publisher Danans follow-up to her sparkling, sexy debut The Roommate (released in September of last year) is more introspective and emotional than its predecessor, but with that same captivating prose that made her first release so successful even in the height of a difficult publishing landscape. Naomi Grant, the best friend and ex of The Roommates Josh, has been poised to make the jump from sex worker to sex educator since the start-up they co-founded together hit big. The only problem is that due to her background, shes having trouble finding gigs as a lecturer. Enter Ethan Cohen, a rabbi who has been tasked with attracting a younger generation to his synagogue and only three months to do it. When the two team up for a seminar about intimacy in the millennial world, crafting a syllabus that revolves around love and sex proves to be the spark that lights the match of their burning attraction for one another. This book tackles issues of religion and romance in a way that makes them simpatico, not opposing forces, and Naomi is a lead with nuance who owns her past without shame, while Ethan never expresses judgment or condemnation towards her at any turn. $11 at Amazon Buy $11 at Amazon Buy

Act Your Age, Eve Brown, by Talia Hibbert $12 $16 now 25% off $12 Photo: Publisher Hibberts dazzling Brown Sisters series comes to a close with the newest release featuring likely the wildest sister, but the good news is Hibbert really wraps things up on a high note. Eve Brown cant seem to get anything right no matter how hard she tries  and when her latest antics ruin an expensive wedding, her parents finally put their foot down. She needs to get her act together, even if she doesnt know how to do that yet. Interviewing for an open chef position at a bed and breakfast seems like the right move, but then she accidentally runs over the owner with her car. Oops! Jacob Waynes used to being in control of everything, but with a broken arm and a business that needs him, hell have to rely on the last person he wanted to help out around the place. These two characters are a true case of opposites attracting, and even though they get off on the wrong foot, the heat between them is smoldering. $12 at Amazon Buy $12 at Amazon Buy

Accidentally Engaged, by Farah Heron $10 $16 now 38% off $10 Photo: Publisher Accidentally Engaged does what all good romance novels do best: Its full of emotion, fun, and family, with that ultimately satisfying HEA that will settle in your stomach like a home-cooked meal. Reena Manji isnt the biggest fan of her family shoving themselves into every detail of her life, but she can focus on her baking, something reliable and delicate to put her efforts into. When her father conveniently moves his newest employee, Nadim, in across the hall from her, it feels like a very obvious setup situation. But he cuts a nice figure and he enjoys her bread, two things in his favor. When her career takes an unexpected downturn, Nadim even agrees to fake an engagement with her so she can enter a couples contest. They might be playing at pretending to be a match, but when the secret gets out, what will happen when her family catches wind? $10 at Amazon Buy $10 at Amazon Buy

Honey Girl, by Morgan Rogers $12 $17 now 29% off $12 Photo: Publisher Honey Girl isnt your typical romance novel  at least not in its more strictly defined terms  but its one of the most powerful coming-of-age stories debuting this year and it should be required reading for any millennial who finds themselves buckling under the weight of expectation. Wielding her newly earned Ph.D., Grace Porter decides to go on a girls trip to Vegas to celebrate. Shes not the type of person who would party hard and get drunkenly married to a woman she doesnt even know  and yet thats exactly what she does. Deciding to throw caution to the wind, Grace jets off to New York to spend time with a wife who might as well be a stranger, and over one memorable summer, begins to fall for her. The question is: Is Grace actually running to someone, or running away from something else? $12 at Amazon Buy $12 at Amazon Buy

Love at First, by Kate Clayborn $9 $16 now 44% off $9 Photo: Publisher Clayborn writes romances that are engaging, heart wrenching, and so ultimately satisfying that you wont want to put the book down. When he was a teenager, Will Sterling encountered the girl of his dreams on an apartment building balcony, but she never even knew he was there. Sixteen years later, hes back, dealing with the unexpected surprise of his uncles passing and the inheritance of a new apartment he never wanted. But he doesnt expect hell run right into his dream girl from all those years ago, or that shell want nothing to do with him now. Nora Clarke is definitely taken aback by her handsome new neighbor, but when she learns his plans to rent out the apartment, she tasks herself with preserving the buildings community, throwing a wrench in at every turn. That might be easier said than done when every second she spends in Wills company forces her to acknowledge their connection. $9 at Amazon Buy $9 at Amazon Buy

The Ex Talk, by Rachel Lynn Solomon $14 $16 now 13% off $14 Photo: Publisher Solomons a YA author, but in her adult rom-com debut, she pens a love letter to radio  as well as anyone who cant ever get enough of NPR in their earbuds. Shay Goldstein has been a producer at a Seattle public radio station for almost ten years, but her latest struggle occurs in one tall, handsome coworker named Dominic Yun, who name-drops his masters degree in journalism at every opportunity and thinks he knows it all. But the station is in dire straits and needs an infusion of new programming, and when Shay casually suggests a show hosted by exes who used to date each other, their boss jumps at the idea. Unfortunately, he also decides Shay and Dominic should be the hosts. The only problem? Theyve never dated. Not only are they going to have to fake a past relationship, theyll have to fake a break up too, and over the course of their research, the two begin to wonder if maybe they might be falling for each other for real. $14 at Amazon Buy $14 at Amazon Buy

Shipped, by Angie Hockman $13 $16 now 19% off $13 Photo: Publisher What do you do when your long-standing professional enemy is also someone youve never laid eyes on  until now? Thats the premise of Hockmans charming contemporary romance, about an overworked heroine named Henley Evans who gets the chance to prove herself when shes up for her dream promotion at the cruise line where she works. However, theres one other person in contention for the same role: the companys social media manager, Graeme Crawford-Collins. Their boss informs them theyll need to draft a proposal to prove why theyre the best candidate for the gig  and what better place to do that than on location in the Galapagos Islands, on one of the companys very own cruise ships? The first time she lays eyes on Graeme IRL, Henleys shocked to discover hes nothing like what she imagined, and when theyre forced to work together, she realizes that her loathing for him may not be completely hate-based after all. Hockmans debut is smart, witty, and charming, with steamy on-page chemistry that will make you want to take a dip even in winter. $13 at Amazon Buy $13 at Amazon Buy
SEND. Photo-Illustration: Vulture; Photo by Kim Newmoney

For seven years, Gabe Liedman, along with his co-hosts Jenny Slate and Max Silvestri, helped shape the Brooklyn comedy scene with their weekly stand-up showcase show Big Terrific. Then, as these things go, they all moved to L.A., one by one, to achieve tremendous Hollywood success. Liedman has worked as a writer on shows including Kroll Show, Transparent, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and PEN15, on which he was also the first showrunner. Now, Liedman is the co-creator of Q-Force, Netflixs new animated series about a team of queer spies. Ive had the experience of writing for straight shows that have queer side characters, Liedman says, so it was a freeing experience where you dont have to scrap day to day to try and insert that identity into an existing thing  The whole house is gay. The door is gay. The roof is gay, so its like, Now just go in the house and make a show.

On Vultures Good One podcast, Liedman discusses Q-Force, the pandemic hitting mid-production of the first season, the surprising backlash to the shows first teaser, and Big Terrific. You can read an excerpt from the transcript or listen to the full episode below. Tune in to Good One every Thursday on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Overcast, or wherever you get your podcasts.

On How the Pandemic Affected Writing Q-Force

I have a million fears about the show coming out and how its going to hit people, but one of the biggest ones is, Are people going to watch the show and realize it was written by people who are fucking scared for their lives and not in great places mentally? The pandemic hit hard while we were writing episode four, so [episodes] four through ten were all written in isolation. The way we did things in the olden days, we would sit around a big round table with a whiteboard altogether, and we would chat and we would work things out. What is the digital equivalent to a whiteboard? Now theres a bunch of apps that are designed specifically for television writers, but we didnt know about them at the time, and we had to figure it out on the fly. Eventually we figured out what Zoom was. But I dont know what the hell we were doing at first. But having a daily schedule was a real lifesaver for a lot of people.

Ive been a part of television shows that crumble and disappear and fall apart for various different reasons, so it became this really important thing to me as the manager to make sure that that did not happen. Like, this was a life-and-death situation, and I needed to make sure that everyone got paid and had food to eat. Thats what it felt like to me. I felt: If we can just show up every day and do this, well be happier. But also, like, we wont die.

On the Backlash to the Shows First Teaser

It was a really big reaction. It really surprised me. The stuff that people were saying made sense, but the magnitude of it really surprised me. Whats tricky is that was 15 seconds of the show, and it was put together by a huge corporation, and it was timed to come out during Pride. All those ingredients are like a homemade bomb; you know its not going to go great. I knew that something like this is going to rub some people the wrong way for sure.

But I think there are a couple of things going on, if I can be honest. I think if there were 9,000 queer shows out there, then maybe everyone would feel perfectly represented, and it wouldnt be a fucking thing, and people wouldnt care. Theres more queer shows now than there ever have been, but theres still not a ton, so each one feels really loaded to certain parts of the community. And some people are just really anxious about how the community is going to come across. I 100 percent get that.

I also think that theres a bit of a generational thing going on. People of all different ages have different relationships with their identities and grew up in different climates where certain things are acceptable and certain things arent. And I think we showed our millennial ass a little bit in that teaser. For me  someone whos about to turn 40, who came up in New York City as a stand-up comedian  it felt really, really bold and exciting and cool for me to talk about sex and asses. That was a real mission of mine. If I was ever political in any way, it was in that way of just standing in a very straight space  in a dive bar in the East Village, surrounded by the John Mulaneys and Eugene Mirmans of the world  and just being like, The way I have sex makes me fucking fart. But thats not what everyones experiencing  everyone has different relationships with sex  and that short teaser came across as hypersexual to people.

One part of the comments that broke my heart, if I can really just open up for a second, were the people who were like, Great, now my fuckin tormentors have new shit to say to me. I hate that. That feels bad. My intentions dont count for shit  its public property now; its out there. But for whatever its worth  if its worth anything slightly above shit  I was trying to do the opposite. I was trying to say, The shit bullies are saying to you is wrong. The shit theyre making fun of you for is the best and its what makes you shine. I love that part of you. Not everyones in a place where theyre safe to express themselves fully, and I hope for a world where they are, but I wanted to give them peace.

I think there are other comedians and show creators out there who would have been like, I dont give a fuck what people say. Im going to do my thing, and Im just not that person. I am the opposite of that person. I really, really, really care what the audience thinks. I always have. And I dont mean this in a I told you so way, but I want the show to come out and for people to realize were on the same side of the argument. The show was not created by cishet people. Were not the butt of the joke; were the ones making the jokes. But that will either happen or not. I cant really control it. You put your best intentions into it, and then its just not your property anymore.

On the Influence of Big Terrific

If you were to ask potential audience members, What do you hate about stand-up comedy?, it would be When the comedian picks on me from the stage and Being called out, or what a comic would call crowd work. I think if you were to ask most people, thats their fucking nightmare, and thats what keeps them from going to comedy shows  that, suddenly, itll turn on them. So Jenny and Max and I were like, Lets just never pick on the audience. This is our show. Well have the mic. Its not about shutting down hecklers. That was really important, and thats what kept people coming back to see what was probably pretty edgy comedy at the time.

Also the fact that the three of us were  and still are  very, very close friends who actually have a relationship with each other. Thats something that bled into the night. That it was probably palpable how much we liked each other. We would sit in a spot offstage that was very visible and laugh at each others jokes and give each other really warm intros. Then for the guest comics that were people that we admired and actually liked, as opposed to whos the hottest thing right now, we gave them a venue and a lot of stage time  to certain people who werent getting stage time elsewhere, but they had the right vibe. The audience felt it was going to be a pleasant evening, where you laugh your ass off and have a million beers. It probably helped that we were not charging a dime at the door.

I cant give myself any credit really for anything in life, but I am so pleased with what I see happening in New York with the new wave of talent thats coming up. In the olden days, there were a lot of comics who werent happy that I was coming up, and that was really palpable. I felt a lot of people who I admired just were like, Were not rooting for you, buddy. It was a very defining vibe, and I really didnt want to do that. When I first met John Early, he had just graduated from college and I was like, Youre really funny. I felt, It doesnt cost me anything to get excited about whos next. Its actually really fun.

I love what the comedy scene has become. I dont bemoan front-facing camera videos. Its an art form, and its really, really fucking funny. I am excited about whats next, and trying to make sure I dont close the door behind me. Whats the point? Theyre coming anyway. There are just a lot of feelings, a lot of vibes, a lot of sentiment that I got coming up like, Youre going to wear that onstage? Im just not going to be that person, and I never will be.

On His Identity As a Comedian

I think about this so much that its embarrassing. The idea I wish I could chop out of my head, but it wont go anywhere, is that there are so many young comedy fans out there who have no idea that Im a comedian, and its such a big part of how I see myself. But to the young people going to Club Cumming and the shows that exist these days, they have no fucking idea who I am. And thats so fair because Ive never set foot on that stage, and I dont put out work. So, like, how would they know? But it plagues me a little bit, because I really do think of myself as a comic, and it is a scary thought to be like, I guess Im not. So occasionally, I dust it off; I make sure to get to Largo and local venues here. I opened up for Jenny Slate on a couple of tour dates when I had the availability, and it felt good to flex that muscle again. It is a really big part of my self identity, but I dont think it is a big part of my public identity anymore. It feels weird.
Surging Covid-19 cases -- and the increasing proportion reported in children -- are causing many health experts to worry about the outlook as the school year gets underway across the entire country.

But Dr. Anthony Fauci said there shouldn't be a big uptick "if we do it right."

"We've gotta get the school system masked in addition to surrounding the children with vaccinated people," said the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. "That's the solution."

In Miami-Dade County Public Schools, 13 school employees have died from Covid-19 since August 16, the school district and local teacher union told CNN. All 13 -- four teachers, one security monitor, one cafeteria worker and seven school bus drivers -- were unvaccinated, they said.

"I think this underscores the big tragedy that we see occurring across America," Miami-Dade County Public Schools Superintendent Alberto Carvalho said Tuesday.

"Even though in my community, 98% of individuals have gotten at least one dose of the vaccine, there is still a lag specific to individuals that represent ethnic minorities in Miami-Dade."

The 13 school employees who died were African Americans and were unvaccinated, according to their families, Carvalho said.

Since vaccine mandates are illegal in Florida, the best thing Carvalho can do is offer incentives to teachers to get fully vaccinated, including a $275 stipend to any employee who shows proof of vaccination, he said.

Schools, particularly in the South, started their new year in August and many districts, notably those without mask measures in place, saw an explosion of cases.

Doctors and experts warn it could happen again when students in much of the rest of the country return to school after the Labor Day weekend unless there is strong action to keep the virus in check. Fauci and other officials across the US have stressed masks in schools and vaccination for those eligible are crucial.

"These little ones don't have the choice to take the vaccine. It's up to us," Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said during a back-to-school event in Rochester on Wednesday. "For goodness sakes, we're adults and we know what protects them, so it shouldn't be that hard to say, the science says, put them in a mask. You wouldn't let them run across the street without looking, you certainly wouldn't put them in a crowded classroom without a mask."

While officials believe the federal government is limited on broadly mandating vaccines, President Joe Biden is expected to deliver a major address this week on the next phase of the pandemic, which will include components related to schools, private companies and requirements for federal employees, two sources familiar with the speech told CNN.

Ahead of the speech, poll data from Gallup on Tuesday showed more Americans now disagree than agree that Biden and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have communicated a clear plan of action in response to Covid-19.

The speech comes as the impact of the pandemic on schools becomes clearer.

Children now represent 26.8% of the weekly Covid-19 cases, according to new data. Over two weeks, from August 19 to September 2, there was a 10% increase in the cumulated number of Covid-19 cases in children since the beginning of the pandemic, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Pace of vaccinations may be slowing again

Meanwhile, data published Wednesday by the CDC shows an average of about 356,662 people are initiating their Covid-19 vaccination each day -- an 18% drop from last week and a 26% drop from a month earlier.

But those slowing numbers may have been affected by the Labor Day holiday, and could pick up again in the coming days.

US officials continue to stress the way out of the pandemic is through vaccinations.

"What we've got to do to get to a successful place with Delta is vaccinate enough people, develop enough in the way of therapeutics and treatments, such that we're not losing nearly as many people every day, every week, every year to the Delta virus," US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy told CNN's Jim Acosta on Wednesday.

A large, real-life study confirmed that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are about 90% effective at keeping people 50 and older out of the hospital. Johnson & Johnson's vaccine also had high effectiveness, the team found, but "additional data are needed."

The study, led by the CDC, found that two shots of Pfizer's or Moderna's mRNA vaccines were 91% effective against infection leading to an emergency department or urgent care clinic visit, 89% against infection leading to hospitalization and 90% against infection leading to an ICU admission.

Even among people 85 and older, effectiveness was 85% or higher, the team wrote. Johnson & Johnson's vaccine was 73% effective against emergency department or urgent care clinic visit and 68% against infection leading to hospitalization, the team found.

The study showed the mRNA-based vaccines were highly effective among people 85 or older and those with chronic medical conditions.

Reinforcements going to hospitals

The lagging vaccination rates and climbing case numbers are keeping the pressure on the health care systems in many states.

In Kentucky, hospitals are facing critical staffing shortages and getting pushed to the brink for ICU beds, Gov. Andy Beshear said Tuesday, forcing the closure of some surgery rooms to create ICU centers and more beds to address the influx of Covid-19 patients.

The state has stepped in to help by providing Covid-19 testing via third-party vendors that set up outside of hospitals, freeing up hospital emergency room staff and clinicians to prioritize other healthcare needs for the community, Beshear said.

The governor said he also requested FEMA strike teams and has had a nurse strike team deployed up at St. Claire Regional Medical Center, which has been overwhelmed in treating the influx of Covid-19 patients.

Less than half of Kentucky's population is fully vaccinated against the virus, according to CDC data.

Reinforcements are also on the way for health care workers treating Covid-19 patients in Idaho, Arkansas and Alabama.

Each state will get a 20-person US Army North (ARNORTH) team that includes nurses, respiratory therapists, and medical doctors. Six teams are already deployed, with three teams in Louisiana, two in Mississippi, and one in Alabama.

"This is the first time Department of Defense medical assets have deployed to support both Idaho and Arkansas during the pandemic," ARNORTH commander Lt. Gen. Laura J. Richardson said. "We are proud to be called upon to support our local, state, and federal partners there, and in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi, in this whole-of-government response."

New data suggests unvaccinated people are at least several times more likely to test positive

The best protection against hospitalizations, health experts have emphasized, is vaccination.

Data from local health departments in Utah, Virginia and Seattle's King County suggests that unvaccinated people are at least four times -- and up to nine times -- more likely than vaccinated people to test positive for coronavirus, and that gap has grown in recent weeks.

About 53.2% of all Americans are fully vaccinated, according to CDC data. Those numbers are not yet where experts say they need to be to protect the majority of Americans.

In August, the FDA authorized an additional Covid-19 vaccine dose for certain immunocompromised people. And while the effort to vaccinate the entire population continues, officials are now preparing for the rollout of booster doses for a larger population.

The boosters do not indicate that something is wrong with the first two doses, Fauci said Tuesday. Rather, the third dose may just be part of a full vaccine regimen.

The White House is expected to kick off its booster plan the week of September 20. At that time, up to 5.2 million people may be eligible to receive their third dose.

The plan is to allow third doses starting eight months after a person receives the second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna mRNA vaccines, although the timing could fluctuate.

It's not clear what the timing will be for a second dose of the single-dose J&J vaccine, which more than 14 million people received, according to the CDC.

"That might be two doses for a J&J, but for the mRNA, we know from studies that are already ongoing in Israel now, that when the degree of protection against infection and even severe disease goes down to a certain precarious level, when you give the person that third boost, you dramatically increase the level of protection," Fauci said.

"Even more so than before the boost, it goes up to and beyond the level of protection."

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A fast moving cold front cleared DeKalb County early Thursday morning, ending rain chances for all of North Alabama the next 5 days.

Behind that cold front a much drier and cooler air-mass is rushing in from the north the rest of today. To get a sudden shift in weather conditions it usually takes gusty winds.

North winds late Thursday morning into the early afternoon will gust as high as 25 mph and drop to a steady 10-20 mph through this evening.

Temperatures will be near 80 during this afternoon with those breezy north winds and low humidity. That little fall-like feel to the air is back to start your Friday with most spots dropping to the mid to upper 50s by sunrise.

It does warm some for the weekend and we keep the sunshine going. Highs climb to the mid to upper 80s both Saturday and Sunday and it'll even stay dry to start the work week. In fact, our next chance of rain isn't until next Tuesday and even then, it's only 20%.

While everything is pretty quiet in our weather world, Tropical Storm Mindy is making landfall along the Florida Panhandle. It's bringing gusty wind and heavy rain to the coast while posing no threat to North Alabama.
A Morgan County man charged in connection with the Jan. 6 Capitol riot has reached a plea deal with the U.S. Government, court documents reveal.

Federal prosecutors filed notice of the plea agreement Wednesday afternoon in their case again Lonnie Coffman of Falkville.

The one-page notice says both sides have agreed to resolve the case prior to trial.

Prosecutors say they anticipate a Sept. 29 hearing can now be a plea hearing.

Details of the plea agreement have not been released.

Coffman was caught in Washington, D.C., with guns and Molotov cocktails outside the Capitol.

He was been in federal custody since his arrest.
An internal investigation within the Huntsville Police Department is ongoing after an email was sent to employees promoting a fundraiser in support of former officer and now convicted murderer William Darby.

Police Chief Mark McMurray says this email was sent out Tuesday morning and the department had no knowledge about the email until it was already sent.

He also said that employee was asked to recall the email and the employees who it was sent to were notified this was not an appropriate action.

A fundraiser was started by a group in Pennsylvania in support of former Huntsville Police Officer William Darby, who has been sentenced to 25 years behind bars for the shooting of Jeffrey Parker in 2018.

According to the police department this fundraiser was shared by an officer to other employees asking for their support to help out their former colleague a direct violation of city policies, according to the department.

In a statement sent to me from the Huntsville police department, McMurray said:

'There is no organized effort within the police department to fundraise or otherwise for William Darby. The attachment within the email and the information presented on it are not affiliated with the Huntsville Police Department."

"HPD will not condone any inappropriate use of city property, time or resources," he said.

People WAAY 31 spoke to agreed with the department's response saying the employee overstepped with their support especially after the facts of the case came out and Darby was convicted.

"When a court makes a decision, or a jury makes a decision you know that's the process at work and I think police officers have to be very careful about trying to inject themselves too much into situations it's just very difficult," said Kevin Harris, who lives in Huntsville.

"I think that's appropriate for private groups to be involved in that but I don't like the police department promoting that themselves but private citizens should always be able to support causes as they believe," Hunter Garnett, who lives in Huntsville, said.

I did reach out to the woman over the organization selling these shirts she told me she did not want to answer any questions. The police department did not get into any details on the position this employee held or what disciplinary action will be taken.
The Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals has upheld the conviction of a Lauderdale County murderer, Attorney General Steve Marshall announced Thursday.

Alfonzo Ramon Jarmon, 38, was convicted in Lauderdale County Circuit Court on December 12, 2020, for the murder of Charles Perkins. This was his second time being found guilty of the murder.

The evidence at trial showed that on April 29, 2016, Jarmon shot Perkins, in the head while Perkins was standing in the front yard of his own residence.

Two witnesses saw the shooting of Perkins and a nearby witness standing in the crowd at the crime scene told police it was Perkinss next-door neighbor, Jarmon, who shot and killed him.

Jarmon was originally convicted of Perkins murder in October 2017, but the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals reversed Jarmons conviction and ordered a new trial primarily because Jarmons original trial counsel collapsed and suffered a serious medical incident during closing arguments, according to Marshalls news release.

Lauderdale County District Attorney Chris Connollys office successfully prosecuted this case and the subsequent retrial and obtained a guilty verdict.

Jarmon was sentenced to life imprisonment. Jarmon again sought to have his conviction reversed on appeal.

The Attorney General's Criminal Appeals Division handled the case during the appeals process, arguing for the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals to affirm Jarmons conviction.

Marshall commended Assistant Attorney Generals Yvonne Saxon and Cameron Ball for their successful work on this case, and thanked District Attorney Chris Connolly and his staff for their valuable assistance in defending the murder conviction.
A family and community is mourning the loss of a North Alabama nurse who died from COVID.

46-year-old DeAnna Pounders Russ died on Friday, and her mother, Teresa Pounders just two days later.

DeAnna Pounders Russ and Teresa Pounders DeAnna Pounders Russ and Teresa Pounders

Both suffering from COVID-19.

Now, her husband is left struggling with the same fatal virus.

WAAY-31 spoke to Russ' family to learn more about her

The community of Russellville is trying to come to grips to losing someone who loved ones remember as a phenomenal nurse, devoted mother and wife.

The family says it's too soon to speak on her passing, but they gave us permission to use pictures and left us with some lasting words on her behalf.

Many people on Facebook saw DeAnna as a ray of light and someone who would speak to anyone, no matter if she knew them or not.

The family told WAAY-31 this is something no one can prepare you for: losing a matriarch and having to hold on to hope of not losing another of the family.

From her obituary, DeAnna is described as a fierce family lover, a protector and a fighter.

They say she would do whatever she could for her loved ones and only hope her legacy of being a fighter will live on beyond its days.

DeAnna fought for days but ultimately passed on Sept. 3 at North Alabama Medical Center.

DeAnna's husband is still in the hospital, battling with COVID and the family asks for your prayers for him.

Her daughter-in-law told us she is thankful to everyone and words cannot express how much DeAnna will be missed.

The family is holding a private family graveside service at Crooked Oak Cemetery in Tuscumbia.
News of Western Wahkiakum County and Naselle

September 11 is National Emergency Responders Day. This week it seems appropriate to honor our own emergency responders as we get close to the 20th Anniversary of September 11, 2001. I remember that day very well and I know many of you do as well. I was working in my office at Fuller Seminary and heard on the radio. I drove to Fred Meyer in Ballard and bought a tiny TV so we could see for ourselves because it was so unbelievable to imagine. We were all stunned and quiet because it was difficult to see it happening. I know many of you have stories much the same. It was like Mt. St. Helen's erupting, but this was man made and thus worse. I wonder how many of our young people know much about that day. It seems as we move on from continual conflicts like two world wars, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan, war becomes an everyday thing we take for granted. I pray that is not the case as more years go by. Lord, grant us peace.

Photos of the Week: #1 Sheriff's Department: At last week's Senior Lunch Club's luncheon, Sheriff Mark Howie and Undersheriff Gary Howell joined our group. They try to come to one each month, and their presence is most welcome. They listen to the group, answer questions, and update us on what's happening for them in the county. Mark told me he has 20 positions in his department, including dispatch, corrections, deputies, jail, civil and emergency management. He also has seven reserve deputies plus search and rescue. They are available 24/7 and cover the entire county.

Photo #2: Naselle Fire Department: The whole group of volunteers came together for this shot, sent by Nate Engleson, along with an update on Chief Doug Sandell. "Hi, Karen. I'm just letting you know Doug Sandell is home after his five week recovery from liver and kidney transplants. He was doing so well they let him come home early. Initially they told him it would be up to three months before he would be able to leave the hospital. He will be recovering at home with his wife for a while."

For much of his working life, Doug has been a log truck driver for Harvey Johnson. I first heard about Doug's situation from Bud Strange who sent me information on the activities folks in Naselle were doing to help raise funds for Doug's health care expenses. He is healing well. Individuals, businesses, and others in the area, including Astoria and the Peninsula, came together to help raise as much as possible to help him with his bills. The big garage sale last spring raised over $30,000, and I'm sure more has been given since. May God bless Doug's healing and get him actively back on the crew soon. If you would like to donate to Doug's expenses, send a check made out to Doug Sandell to 52 Upper Naselle Rd, Naselle WA 98638. And thank you for caring.

Photo #3 From Nate: "The Naselle Fire Department got together when we heard he was on his way home. I decided to text everyone to welcome him home just a few minutes after he arrived on Wednesday. Eleven members showed up. We then grabbed the trucks and drove to his house. The first truck in line was the first truck we bought new back in 1956. For our welcome home parade for Doug, we had four fire trucks, an ambulance, and a rescue truck. We welcomed him with lights and a siren or two. Doug's a huge asset to the community and the Naselle fire department where he's been Chief since 1989. We are so happy to have him back and at home. Best of luck, Doug!"

Harvest Festival October 2: Lots of flyers and Facebook messages are advertising a Harvest Festival on October 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Miller Homestead at 5127 SR4 west driving west past the Deep River Highway Bridge. The Miller Homestead sign on the left will show the location. It is the third left hand turn after crossing the Deep River Bridge. The flyer advertises hay wagon rides, games, hay bale maze, live music, vendors, photo booth, and pumpkin patch. Admission is $25 for family and $8 for individuals. Pumpkin patch and hay wagon rides will be open every Friday and Saturday till the pumpkins are sold out. Vendors are welcome. Contact Christina Miller at (360) 783-2891 or email: millerhomesteadmarket@yahoo.com to register as a vendor or to get more information about the festival.

Calendar:

Rod Run at the Beach on Peninsula September 10-12.

Fiber Arts Festival at Fairgrounds in Skamokawa. Pre-register for classes at http://www.wahkiakumfair.org. I have attended many fiber arts events in years past. Seeing the creativity with fabric and fibers builds our awareness of how art can be found in so many places. Attending is a great idea as the winter months are coming when we need inside activities and how better than to knit, quilt, make a rug or needlepoint.

Bingo at Johnson Park: September 25 from 6  8 p.m. Plenty of food and prizes.

Covered Bridge Dinner: Set for October 4 at the Bridge in Grays River. A limited number of tickets will be available soon.

Senior Lunches: The Senior Lunch Club will host the monthly potluck luncheon on September 15 at noon at Rosburg Hall. CAP box lunches are available every Thursday at noon for pick up at Rosburg Hall. Call Denise at (360) 762-3111 to order yours.

Word for the Week: Gratitude.
One sent to the hospital with gunshot wound to the arm after shots fired in Decatur
SF: We dont know for sure. Remember first that most, if not all, vaccine-induced side effects appear within the first two months of immunization, which is exactly what has happened with Covid-19 vaccines. We know that there is a risk of rare blood clots with the AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson vaccines among those younger than 40 or 50, but only after the first dose, so a third shot of these vaccines in those who already had two should be ok. However, these shots use a viral vector that the immune system may come to recognize, potentially making a third shot less effective. With the mRNA vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, theres a risk of heart inflammation in younger individuals after the second shot, which may increase after a third. Mixing vaccines may provide a more effective boost, but may also introduce or heighten the above uncommon risks. Clinical trials happening now will provide more information, but they may not tell us much about rare side effects. As for dosing, data from the U.K., which is one of two countries along with Canada that have systematically used a longer dosing period between the first and the second shot, suggests that the protection afforded by this schedule was at least as good if not better. We still dont know whether the immunity will wane at a slower pace. U.K. data doesnt address this yet; we need more time to get a better picture.
 The Americans with Disabilities Act allows a worker to request an exemption from a vaccine mandate if she has a disability thats covered by the law. In such a case, the employer must communicate with the worker to determine whether an exemption is a reasonable accommodation given her disability and job responsibilities -- and isnt an undue burden for the employer. Failing to engage in that process or provide a reasonable accommodation could be grounds for a lawsuit. A worker with a health condition that compromises her immune system has a good chance of prevailing on a claim if she has a doctors advice that she should avoid a vaccine. An employer would need to show that allowing a worker to remain unvaccinated would cause an undue burden or pose a direct threat in the workplace, which would be difficult to do if there are alternatives available such as working from home or moving to an area segregated from coworkers. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which enforces federal laws against job discrimination, has said that ADA protections apply to Covid vaccines.
It would be nice if there were some official show of U.S. support for these courageous protesters. But its unlikely. As Biden has said many times in the last several months, the post-withdrawal plan is for the U.S. to retain an over the horizon capability to target terrorists in Afghanistan. That means the U.S. will need Pakistans approval for flights over its airspace.
In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, the attacks seemed to have changed America in lots of other ways beyond the rise of the security state. It was feared that the economic damage would be severe and lasting. It wasnt. For aggregate measures such as GDP, employment and the Standard & Poors 500 Index, it seems to have been so fleeting that Im not even going to bother with charts. The U.S. economy had already been in a recession since March 2001 as the technology-stock bubble deflated, and the attacks briefly accelerated the downturn, but by the end of the year GDP was growing again. The S&P retraced its post-attack losses in less than a month. Stocks started falling again after that and employment declines continued into 2003, but other factors such as the tech bear market and the China shock in manufacturing surely played a bigger role than 9/11.
It is unlikely to be much of a consolation for Washington, but the government in Kabul will also alarm other countries with an interest in Afghanistan. For instance, there will be disquiet in China about army chief Qari Fasihuddin, who has had a long association with the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, which Beijing accuses of terrorism in its Xinjiang province. (The Trump administration last year removed the ETIM from the State Departments list of terrorist groups.)
Its been 30 years since the Kennedy Center established its visionary Ballet Commissioning Project, which brought together leading choreographers and the nations top ballet companies. Paul Taylors Company B is one of the glories that resulted. Taylor created it in 1991 simultaneously for his company and the Houston Ballet, and it was an instant success. Its somewhat deceptive jitterbug vibe is accompanied by World War II-era recordings by the Andrews Sisters, leading many to believe it was an antiwar piece, but Taylor denied this. Still, themes of lost innocence, untimely death and stoic perseverance ring clearly in Company B, along with a strong sense of optimism. Considering what weve all been through this past year, this work may feel especially restorative. Company B and the joyous Esplanade Oct. 7-9 at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater. kennedy-center.org.
In the coming days, Sullivan could find himself in court, but it wont be for his own case. He could serve as a witness in the gun possession trial of a man he helped arrest. If that happens, it will place Sullivan in the position of testifying for the U.S. attorneys office, the same agency that is investigating him.
County Health Officer Travis Gayles said last week that about 790 students were put in the quarantine pending results category. Those individuals were identified as close contacts to someone who showed a coronavirus symptom and was awaiting test results. Of those, 199 were confirmed as close contacts to someone who tested positive for the coronavirus and were asked to continue quarantining, Gayles said.
We have to expect to see a surge this winter . . . and we need to do something, because no one wants to go back to capacity limits and restrictions on businesses, he told reporters Wednesday. We want to make sure that the residents whove been vaccinated can go out and enjoy the things we told them theyd be able to enjoy when they got vaccinated.
Latest: Jan. 6 hearings open with visceral accounts of Trump supporters assault on police

A sprawling investigation: What we know so far about the Capitol riot suspects

Six hours of paralysis: Inside Trumps failure to act after a mob stormed the Capitol

Profiles of three involved in the attack: A horn-wearing shaman. A cowboy evangelist. For some, the Capitol attack was a kind of Christian revolt.

Video timeline: 41 minutes of fear from inside the Capitol siege
Raquel Coombs, a spokeswoman for Frosh, said in a statement that the team will shape the scope and methodology of the audit, including the manner in which cases for review will be selected. She said once the design team finishes its work, Frosh will select the members that will conduct the audit.
Federal prosecutors did not identify Harris as the threatened member of Congress  saying only that the member was from Maryland  but Harris identified himself as the victim. He first revealed in January that he had been threatened after he reportedly carried a gun through a metal detector near the House chamber. A spokesman said at the time that Harris never confirms whether hes carrying a gun for self-defense for security reasons, because his and his familys lives have been threatened by someone who has been released awaiting trial.
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A man who identified himself as a relative of Braxton said the family did not want to talk. Efforts to reach Joyners relatives were unsuccessful. Police said they do not yet know of a motive but suspect the shooter or shooters were targeting one or more people in the crowd, and they are trying to determine if street crews were involved.
In announcing the indictment, prosecutors with the U.S. attorneys office in Maryland said Vanderpool allegedly deprived the woman of the right to be free from unreasonable seizure by a person acting under color of law, which includes the right to be free from unwanted sexual assault by a police officer.
We have a court ruling and so the statues going to come down, he told WRVAs John Reid on Tuesday, on the eve of Lees departure from Richmonds famed Monument Avenue. And I do hope, John, that they put it someplace like a battlefield or a museum so that we wont forget our history. And I do hope that we, in fact, recognize how wrong the graffiti and the violence was around statues, and that we have to stand up for law enforcement, not demean them and defund them.
According to reports from the period and research by local author Dale Brumfield, the capsule was crammed with 60 items. Most of it was Confederate memorabilia, Lee family history and the like. But Brumfield discovered one intriguing item on the list: a picture said to show President Abraham Lincoln in his coffin. If its in there, and if it survives, that would be a tremendous find, he said  one of only a handful known to exist.
We worked our butts off for Winsome, he said. We love her as a candidate. We truly believe in her. We held this campaign together and it doesnt make sense to put new ballplayers on the field in the ninth inning.
One signal of how many of the worlds richest economies plan to use their leverage over the militants is likely to come when the Group of Seven finance ministers meet in coming days, said Kanni Wignaraja, director of the United Nations Development Programs regional bureau for Asia and the Pacific. Those governments hold billions in frozen Afghan government assets in their banks  most of them in the United States  and control deciding votes in the international financial institutions that have suspended payments to Afghanistan.
No, the recall is not over, and the results still very much in the balance. But polls and mail-in ballot returns are all trending toward Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) in an overwhelmingly Democratic state, pulled along by his message to reject for reasons of public health, womens reproductive rights and environmental policy a Republican-led recall effort mounted against him three years into his first term.
Mr. Chipmans long record as a partisan, anti-Second Amendment activist raised plenty of concerns about how hed administer federal firearms laws, Grassley said. The employees of ATF and the American people deserve an ATF director who carries out the mission of the agency with respect for the Constitution and for all agency employees. The evenly divided Senate Judiciary Committee deadlocked over Chipmans nomination in late June, and Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) would have had to hold several procedural votes to discharge the nomination from the committee. Democrats appear never to have had the votes to do so.
The delta variant has upended calculations on the virus, sending new infections surging to more than 150,000 a day and daily deaths to 1,500. At the same time, Bidens approval rating has fallen in recent weeks, with Americans less supportive of his handling of the pandemic. Defeating the pandemic was among his central promises, and White House aides believe that his ability to deliver on it will be critical to the success of his presidency.
Consider one of the more unusual interfaith gatherings in the mid-20th century: the arrival of tens of thousands in Aaronsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1949 for the 150th anniversary of Salem Lutheran Church. A Jewish man named Aaron Levy had founded the town in the 1700s and deeded lots to German Protestants for use for houses of worship and a cemetery. Prominent Christians, Jews and at least one Muslim leader  the vice president of the U.N. General Assembly  overfilled the town for the sesquicentennial event headlined as a call for the End of Prejudice. The Rev. Curt Wingert, pastor of the church for the last two years, said the congregation  which also held a community prayer service on 9/11  still has a pewter Communion set given to it by Levy.
I had no idea that Ganga was holy. I didnt know anything about Indian culture or Hinduism. What I knew was that it was a river and I knew there were mountains. I was always a nature person. I spent as much time in the mountains as I could. I read about Rishikesh in our Lonely Planet guidebook. I saw a river and mountains and I thought: That sounds really nice. When we got there, I was hot and tired. I wanted to put my feet in the river. I came down to the banks of Ganga not knowing anything about the sacredness of this river. It happened really suddenly and unexpectedly. I later learned Ganga is a goddess who lived in the heavens and came down to Earth in this form as a river. She came down to Earth to grant liberation to souls. About a third of India is fed by food grown in the Ganga River basin. So shes the bringer of life and health as well as the bestower of liberation to souls. Its also believed a bath in Ganga purifies us from sins weve committed in our ignorance. When we emerge from Ganga we are new. Our minds are purified. We have been shown the light and experienced liberation.
On this solemn anniversary, we cannot rely solely on the rhetoric of remembrance and unity. Our country must continue to heal from the trauma of 9/11, and that means grappling with the painful experiences of those of us who became targets of suspicion overnight  and were treated as such by some of our neighbors, co-workers and elected officials. Any attempt to sweep this history under the rug dishonors the memory of those we lost, whereas an earnest effort to build a better, more just society is truly the only way we can heal.
Herrmann and DaBaron see the Soulful Walk and Talks as tending to the essential spiritual needs of those facing homelessness, and they hope to continue and expand the program as the federal eviction moratorium lifts. Yet DaBaron and Herrmann also pointed to structural changes that need to take place. New York state implemented a new eviction moratorium on Sept. 1 that extends until January 2022. But the moratorium doesnt address the citys lack of affordable housing, the income cliffs that foster dependance on government programs and the health and safety risks facing those in congregate shelters, where many former Lucerne residents are finding themselves since the hotel shelter closed this summer.
At Chinas national congress next fall, Xi is expected to retain his title as general secretary of the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP), a move that would upset a decades-old system of term limits and leadership succession. To build momentum, he is pushing an agenda of tackling income inequality under the banner of common prosperity, a campaign that gives officials and companies rallying around the cause opportunity to show their loyalty before the reshuffle of party personnel.
In one regional office of the outsourcing company Tech Mahindra, an employee said agents removed face masks and shields  a requirement in the Philippines  to breathe or unmuffle themselves on long calls. The employee, Mel, who spoke on the condition that they be identified only by a nickname because they were not authorized to comment publicly, said the company was operating at almost full capacity as of July, against regulations designed to prevent contagion.
Pyongyang is so strict about its border enforcement that it has ordered any trespassers  even animals  to be shot without warning, according to an October 2020 decree obtained by NK News, an outlet that follows North Korean affairs. The previous month, North Korea shot dead a South Korean official who disappeared from a fisheries boat, later dousing the mans body in oil and setting it on fire in an apparent anti-coronavirus measure, South Korean military officials said.
Its not possible for books being used for instruction in our schools to portray Kemal Ataturk as a paradigm of a moral leader who benefited the people, the ministry said in a statement Thursday. Because, as its well known, Ataturk and the Young Turks are responsible for crimes against people like the Armenian Genocide, of the Pontian Greeks, the Assyrians.
The White House said before the flight that there were roughly 100 U.S. citizens left in Afghanistan. But several veterans groups have said that number is too low because many citizens never bothered to tell U.S. officials they were in the country. And they said the figure overlooks green-card-carrying permanent U.S. residents living in Afghanistan who want to leave.
Charlene Thomas, 73, passed away while at the Daviess Community Hospital, Sept. 8, 2021. She was born April 23, 1948, in Washington, to Eugene Matteson and Eileen (Best) Matteson. Charlene was a homemaker who loved to play the piano, enjoyed genealogy, and liked to play cards and board games
Trusted local news has never been more important, but providing the information you need, information that can change sometimes minute-by-minute, requires a partnership with you, our readers. Please consider making a contribution today to support this vital resource that you and countless others depend on.
Until recent days, Nicole Kidman has been in Hong Kong shooting the Amazon series Expats. But unfortunately for the Australian actor and producer, the project has generated more negative attention than positive  so whats going on?

An Amazon representative denied Nicole Kidman left the shoot for Expats early. Credit:Getty

Firstly, what is Expats all about?

The series is an adaptation of Janice Y. K. Lees book The Expatriates, a social satire published in 2016 about three foreign women going through their own personal crises and daily dramas in Hong Kong.

Describing Lee as a female, funny Henry James in Asia, The New York Times has said the novel portrays an affluent community of contemporary Westerners whose lives centre on motherhood, their clubs, social causes and managing the help.

Kidman, whose Blossom Films has the rights to the book, is starring as well as executive producing the series. She recruited Chinese-American Lulu Wang, best known for the acclaimed drama The Farewell, to direct.
Australias medicines regulator has restricted the prescription of ivermectin, after unfounded claims it can be used to treat COVID-19 led to a spike in use of the potentially dangerous anti-parasitic drug.

In recent months, prescriptions for the ivermectin, usually used to treat infections such as scabies and ringworm, have been filled at a rate three to four times the usual amount.

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It is believed that this is due to recent prescribing and dispensing for unapproved uses, such as COVID-19, the Therapeutic Goods Administration said in a statement.

Such shortages can disproportionately impact vulnerable people, including those in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

General practitioners will only be able to prescribe the drug for scabies and a set list of parasitic infections.

Specialists including infectious disease physicians, dermatologists, gastroenterologists and hepatologists can prescribe the drug for patients whose conditions fall outside the list if they believe it is appropriate.

Ivermectin is not approved for use in COVID-19 in Australia or in other developed countries, and its use by the general public for COVID-19 is currently strongly discouraged by the National COVID Clinical Evidence Taskforce, the World Health Organisation and the US Food and Drug Administration, the TGA said.

The regulator expressed concern about social media posts that recommended the drug be taken at rates much higher than safely prescribed, as well as the possibility people were taking ivermectin as an alternative to COVID-19 vaccination.

Earlier this month, it was reported a man from western Sydney presented to Westmead Hospital with vomiting and diarrhoea after taking ivermectin.

In August, the TGA issued a warning against self-medicating with the drug after imports increased.

People who have taken ivermectin are advised to call the poison information hotline on 13 11 26 or triple zero (000) in an emergency.
Captain Phil Paterson will never forget the looks of gratitude on their faces.

As he prepared to pilot a Qantas flight from South Africa to Australia during the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, Captain Paterson watched hundreds of anxious passengers file aboard.

"You could tell they were pretty pleased to be getting out because seat numbers were limited," he said. "It was good to be part of that because you knew you were helping out in a small way."

Qantas has operated 167 government-subsidised repatriation flights since March 2020. Credit:Louise Kennerley

Since that moment in April last year, Captain Paterson has flown about 15 of the 160 Qantas repatriation flights into Australia, leading to him spending four months of this year isolating in quarantine. The veteran Boeing 787 pilot has played an integral part in Qantas returning 26,000 people home on government-subsidised flights, although tens of thousands of Australians remain stranded overseas due to strict arrival caps.
Sydneysiders wanting to enjoy new freedoms for the vaccinated on Monday may have to settle for soggy picnics, or mark the calendar for the following weekend, with a string of rainy days forecast for next week.

But this weekend will provide a taste of summer and prime conditions for lockdown exercise, with the mercury predicted to climb into the high 20s on Saturday and Sunday with plenty of sunshine.

A red sunrise at Avalon on Friday ahead of a warm day with a warmer weekend predicted. Credit:Nick Moir

Bureau of Meteorology senior forecaster Neale Fraser said it would be a warm weekend before a cold front moves through the states south-west on Sunday, cooling things off in the city from Monday.

He said temperatures will be well above average throughout the state on Saturday and most areas, aside from alpine regions, will reach at least 20 degrees.
Tracy Westerman is aiming to single-handedly do what no government has by creating an army of Indigenous psychologists in the hope of curbing soaring rates of suicide in Aboriginal communities.

The WA Indigenous psychologist is mentoring and financially supporting about 30 Indigenous psychology students through scholarships via her charity, The Westerman Jilya Institute for Indigenous Mental Health.

Western Australia Indigenous psychologist Dr Tracy Westerman.

More than 10 of those scholarships will be made possible by proceeds raised at the Jilya World Suicide Prevention Day fundraising concert with performances by acts including John Butler and Indigenous artists including Gina Williams and Guy Chouse on Friday at UWAs Winthrop Hall.

The students from across the country are trained in clinical and cultural best practice response to the needs of at-risk Aboriginal communities to arm them with the tools needed before returning home in coming years to provide psychological support to their own populace.
What is inexcusable is the gaping flaw which saw overpayment of a staggering $13 billion to entities with no mechanism to compel repayment. The government succeeded in making some very rich people even richer while still hunting down pensioners for a few lousy dollars in overpayments. Then it used Pauline Hanson to scuttle crossbench Senator Rex Patricks bill to force the disclosure of payments to all companies and entities with a turnover of more than $10 million. JobKeeper has made some very rich people richer. Credit:Dionne Gain Responses to calls for corrective action have been as mulish and as tone-deaf as passing legislation implementing only six of the recommendations of the Respect@Work report on the eve of the National Summit on Womens Safety. There are no apologies only insistence that it was worth the money and how unfair and counterproductive it would be to name those who overclaimed. Morrisons aversion to transparency remains deplorably consistent and universal. After he was caught sneaking off to Hawaii during the bushfires, he blamed staff for failing to announce his absence. The office wont do that again, he said. You learn from these things.

Apparently not. He claimed that same office only told him about the Brittany Higgins rape allegations after they were published. Then at the weekend he snuck off to Sydney, spent the Fathers Day weekend with his family then returned to Canberra. Loading It may have been within the rules for politicians, but it made a mockery of the all in it together homilies. He would have done better to be upfront about the trip rather than posting an old photo with his wife and daughters designed to leave the impression that, like a lot of dads, he had missed out on precious family time. His defence, that he lives in Sydney, like the revelation by Laura Tingle on ABCs 7.30 that his home state has received a much higher proportion of vaccines, only enhances his status as the Prime Minister for NSW. When the proverbial hit the fan over his trip, Morrison made contact with Labor leader Anthony Albanese to confirm Albanese would adhere to his long-standing practice of not getting stuck in when families were involved, then he bought himself cover by making sure a version of that undertaking was briefed to media.

One day, his lack of candour, his remorseless political calculations, will be the death of him. So could the JobKeeper scandal if its not fixed. Morrison has been extraordinarily agile in re-pivoting on every issue which has gone belly-up, and it is not for nothing that in the upper echelons of Frydenbergs Treasury department they only half-jokingly call him Just In Time Josh. He cuts it fine then somehow manages to get where he needs to be in the end. Morrison and Frydenberg should use the moral authority of their offices to insist  not ask politely  companies return the money. They could do it today, or tomorrow. Its not too late, before this scandal turns catastrophic. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Credit:Justin McManus Just for some perspective on how much is involved, it is $1300 for every Australian household, and more than double that proposed by Albanese for everyone who got vaccinated. At least they would have spent it here.

Louis Vuitton bagged almost $6 million from JobKeeper then, voila, managed to lift its dividend to its parent company in France by $6.6 million. Recouping that money would go a long way to providing shelter for vulnerable women and children, or the homeless or to ventilate schools or save struggling small businesses. There are literally thousands of ways it could be spent to improve the lives of ordinary people. Loading It doesnt take a genius to work out Labors election advertising. There will be testimonials, tears and outrage, contrasting the governments treatment of disabled pensioners with that of luxury car dealers. Strong against the weak, weak against the strong, Albanese says of the Morrison government. The shadow assistant treasurer, Andrew Leigh, instrumental in getting the issue up, gives a taste of what lies ahead.
The secretary of state and his German counterpart met at a U.S. base in Germany that has become a key transit point for evacuees from Afghanistan.
First of 2 public meetings on tentative LMPD contract to be held next week
Walgreens pharmacist Stephanie Rosado, left, gives Tina Stath her Moderna COVID-19 vaccine shot on Monday at the AHEPA apartments in Merrillville, Ind. (Kale Wilk/The Times via AP)
Mount Ogden Hike Tradition Continues at WSU

September 9, 2021

OGDEN, Utah  On Oct. 4, 1922, over 350 Weber College students and faculty climbed the rough hills of Ogden with college president Aaron Tracy and planted a Weber flag on top of Mount Ogden. Almost every year since then, students and community members have continued the tradition, which will take place this year on Sept. 18.

This hike showcases the culture of Weber State and honors the original team that hiked the peak in 1922 to announce WSU as a beacon in the local area and a symbol of the school's passion and legacy, said Hayley Prine, Outdoor Program coordinator. We are a part of Ogden and the surrounding area. We want to be a resource and a friend to our awesome local community members.

Hikers are welcome to make the climb to Mount Ogden on their own from a variety of trailheads or to join the guided group, which will include WSU President Brad Mortensen. The Outdoor Program will lead the trek from Snowbasin Resorts Moose Plaza. This group will leave at 8:30 a.m. Due to COVID restrictions, advanced registration is required here. Group participants need to arrive a few minutes early and wear a mask before departure.

Because the hike is scheduled earlier in the year than usual, participants may ride the gondola back down the hill from Needles Lodge to Moose Plaza.

The weather tends to be slightly more predictable and the gondola will be running to shorten the descent route, Prine said. We also wanted to welcome students back to campus with lots of options for meaningful experiences as early as possible. We hope students meet each other, as well as WSU faculty, staff, administration and folks from the Ogden community, and feel a sense of unity and belonging at this program.

For trail information and registration, visit the WSU Mount Ogden Hike Tradition page.

For photos of previous hikes, visit these links.

wsuucomm.smugmug.com/Homecoming/Mount-Ogden-Hike

wsuucomm.smugmug.com/Alumni/Eric-Dowdle-Weber-State/i-CHPHVXb/A

wsuucomm.smugmug.com/Alumni/Eric-Dowdle-Weber-State/i-2zHMP7H/A

Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
HARTFORD  In a solemn ceremony, hundreds of law enforcement members from across the country paid their respects to Connecticut state police Sgt. Brian Mohl, who was killed last week when he was swept away in floodwaters of Ida.

A 26-year veteran, Mohl served in troops across western Connecticut, impacting thousands of lives from fellow troopers to residents, state police Col. Stavros Mellakas said.

Brian was extremely intelligent, witty and had a friendly sense of humor. He was well-liked by everyone who knew him. While at work, Brian often spoke fondly of his wife and family. As a state police sergeant and supervisor for our troopers for over 20 years, he could be counted on to get the job done, said Mellakas, the commanding officer of state police who once served with Mohl at Troop L in Litchfield.

Mohls commitment to his family and his state police colleagues was in focus as they spoke of the dedication to a career that he used to support those closest to him.

To know Brian is to know sacrifice, Brian gave up countless hours of sleep to not only serve his community but also to his family and his friends. ... He worked so that others could live their lives to the fullest and to follow their dreams, the troopers younger sister, Laura Mohl Singh, said.

Sgt. Corey Craft, Mohls friend of three decades, described how the two would banter back and forth. It really could have been a good reality TV show, said Craft, whose stories about Mohl repeatedly drew murmurs of laughter from those assembled.

Soon after Mohl bought a home in Danbury, Craft said he began parking in his friends driveway, making it his office. This drew Mohls aggravation, which delighted Craft.

This began to annoy him, which made my day even better, Craft recalled. One day, he said, Mohl told him if youre going to be here so much, why dont you pay rent?

To Craft, that was an invitation. He and a few other state troopers showed up with a U-Haul and moved Craft into Mohls house, waking him from his sleep in the process.

The reason I bring this up is while I was there, I saw an amazing Mohl family, said Craft, who recalled being invited to family barbecues by Mohls parents.

Family and friends recalled the 50-year-old trooper for his profane nicknames, the cryptic text messages he would send, and his seemingly endless love for Costco.

I hope theyre represented here today, said Gary Williams, who was part of the 105th training troop alongside Mohl at the Connecticut State Police Academy. He will be sorely missed by that company

If you didnt know Mohl, youd think he was a cranky old man, Williams said. But, no matter how he tried to mask it behind the grumpy exterior, Brian loved us, he said.

The world lost an amazing human, not just an amazing trooper, Craft said. Mohl gave 27 years to the state of Connecticut, he gave his family and friends so much more.

Mohl was died last week while working the midnight shift at Troop L in Litchfield as Ida slammed Connecticut with historic rainfall and severe flooding. Police said Mohl reported around 3:30 a.m. Sept. 2 that he was caught in fast-rising waters near Jacks Bridge Road in Woodbury, state police officials said.

A massive response ensued, and despite pinging the troopers cellphone, his state police vehicle was not found until after daybreak when the water started to recede. About an hour later, authorities found Mohls body in the nearby river. He was flown to Yale New Haven Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, officials said.

Mohl is among 25 state police troopers who have been killed in the line of duty since the agency was formed in 1903.

Mohl is survived by his wife and 14-year-old son, Brian, along with a step-son and step-daughter and three grandchildren. He is also survived by his parents, George and Frances Mohl, of Hopewell Junction, N.Y., three brothers and two sisters, and many other family members, according to his obituary.

Brian truly had a big heart, said Frances Gordon, the troopers other sister.

Law enforcement was a dream for Mohl and his two brothers, who serve in the New York State Police, his sister said.

I cannot think of a better way for Brian to leave us, serving and protecting the public, Gordon said.

A procession of troopers fired a 21-gun salute on a rain-soaked field outside the Hartford theater on Thursday. As the ceremony ended, a last call went out for Mohl on the police radio.

Your brothers and sisters will take the watch from here, it said.
AP

OLATHE, Kan. (AP)  A suburban Kansas City man has been sentenced to more than 30 years in prison in the death of his 75-year-old mother, who was emaciated and riddled with infected bed sores when she died at home in 2019.

Raymond McManness, 54, was sentenced Wednesday to 374 months, the Kansas City Star reported. McManness, of Olathe, pleaded no contest in July to second-degree murder and physical mistreatment of his mother. Police said McManness didnt seek medical care for Sharon McManness before she died.
BRATISLAVA, Slovakia (AP)  Slovakias government apologized on Wednesday for World War II legislation that stripped the countrys Jews of their human and civil rights.

Marking the 80th anniversary of the Jewish Code adopted on Sept 9, 1941, the government said in a statement that it feels a moral obligation today to publicly express sorrow over the crimes committed by the past regime.
On Thursday, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) gave schools throughout the state the go-ahead to keep serving free meals to students throughout the 2021-22 school year.

Following the extension of the USDA's Seamless Summer Option, which was traditionally only available during the summer, participating schools will continue to offer healthy meals at no charge to students, while also receiving a higher than normal reimbursement rate for each meal served.

The pandemic brought many economic challenges to our families, so we are very happy that healthy meals will be available at no charge for all students throughout this critically important school year, said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen I. Ayala. Many of our students rely on schools to meet their nutritional meals. Study after study shows that proper nutrition supports improved performance in school. We encourage school districts to participate to help fuel learning renewal this year.

Illinois families should contact their local school to find out if they are participating in the Seamless Summer Option this school year or other federal school nutrition programs, such as the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Special Milk Program. Local schools can also provide other details about their meal service.

The Seamless Summer Option is funded by the USDA and administered by ISBE.

More information about school nutrition programs can be found on the ISBE website.
Kentucky State Police Post 2 in Madisonville, Kentucky, is currently seeking applicants for two separate positions of Police Telecommunicator I and Police Telecommunicator II.

Telecommunicators at KSP Post 2 in Madisonville will assist citizens and officers in Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Muhlenberg, Todd, and Webster Counties.

KSP says the position is an essential one that requires a person who:

Has excellent communication skills.

Has the ability to handle extremely stressful and challenging conditions.

Can handle flexible work schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Has the ability to learn and adapt, especially in areas of technology.

The starting salary of a Telecommunicator I is $24,072.96 a year and a Telecommunicator II is $29,129.28 a year.

KSP says telecommunicators also receive a $900 clothing allowance and a $5,500 annual training stipend, after completion of the dispatch academy. Health, dental, and vision insurance are available as well.

To apply for Telecommunicator I, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

High school graduate,

Shall not have been convicted of a felony or other crimes pursuant to KRS 15.540.

Telecommunicator I applications must be submitted by Sept. 19, 2021.

To apply for Telecommunicator II, the applicant must meet the following requirements:

High school graduate.

Must have three years of experience in the transmission, receiving and relaying of electronic information for law enforcement, emergency medical, fire, emergency management, military communications or traffic operations.

College will substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of two years.

Must be currently certified as a Telecommunicator by the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council (KLEC). Must provide documentation of successful certification as a LINK/NCIC operator within 30 days of employment in this job classification.

Shall not have been convicted of a felony or other crimes pursuant to KRS 15.540.

Telecommunicator II applications must be submitted by Sept. 14, 2021.

To apply for either position, visit careers.ky.gov.

Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Ronald Cobb, Police Telecommunications Supervisor (Post 2) by email at Ronald.Cobb@ky.gov.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

Still rather warm and humid with partial sunshine and a late-day shower or thunderstorm..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. Few showers and thunderstorms possible.
Reading, PA (19601)

Today

Still rather warm and humid with partial sunshine and a late-day shower or thunderstorm..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy. Few showers and thunderstorms possible.
WYOMISSING, Pa.  It wasn't a tornado but straight-line winds that caused widespread damage in Berks County on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service, which will not be conducting a storm survey of the area.

From Wyomissing to the Wernersville area, the storm uprooted large trees and blew limbs around like they were twigs.

"It looks like a war zone now," said John Good. "It's just a mess."

In the 1200 block of Monroe Avenue, an uprooted tree sliced through the roof and brick walls of a home's garage as it fell.

"It was exactly 7 minutes to 11 when we heard what sounded like a locomotive," said Maryann Kelly.

She and her husband scrambled into their home's basement during the tornado warning. Their brand-new Hyundai Sonata and decades' worth of Christmas ornaments and mementos may now all be lost.

"I just hope and pray no one else is in this position," Kelly said. "It's just overwhelming."

On the grounds of the Wernersville State Hospital in South Heidelberg Township, the storm pulled several large trees out of the ground and tossed them to their side amid others that were left standing. Several benches were also overturned.

There were no reports of injuries related to the storm.

The storm comes a week after Ida flooded parts of the region and spawned several tornadoes in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

+1 NWS confirms that tornado touched down near Hamburg There are reports of trees down and a roof blown off a house in Tilden Township.

The last tornado to hit Berks was on Aug. 18, when an EF-1 twister touched down in Tilden Township, near Hamburg. The National Weather Service estimated that the tornado had peak winds of 95 mph as it traveled 1.10 miles along the ground. No one was injured.
HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) -- A Connecticut State Police sergeant who died in the line of duty during the remnants of Ida was laid to rest on Thursday.

Sergeant Brian Mohl, a 26-year veteran with the CT State Police, was swept away by flood waters in Woodbury last Thursday.

During his funeral on Thursday, he was described as a man who was dedicated, honorable, and respected, but that wasn't all.

"Its hard for me to wrap my head around the fact that my brother is gone. Its harder still to think about how he left this world alone in a stormy night. But its harder yet that I cant imagine that Brian wont be with us to create more family memories for the rest of our lives," Mohl's sister Laura Mohl Singh said during his funeral on Thursday.

The funeral began at 11 a.m. Thursday at the Xfinity Theater in Hartford.

A gun salute followed by TAPS honored him.

Based on the eulogies heard on Thursday, Mohl was the same person whether in uniform or not.

He was known for being kind, compassionate and supportive. He could also be straightforward.

Mohl was also a devout family man, a devoted father and husband, and a colleague you could lean on.

"Brian, please know you made a difference in the lives of others and we will continue to carry that mission and your memory forever in our hearts and minds," said CT State Police Col. Stavros Mellekas.

Being a trooper, along with two of his siblings, thats what they always wanted to be growing up.

Law enforcement from around the U.S. paid their respects to Mohl, some traveling as far as New Mexico.

A wake was also held at the Xfinity Theater on Wednesday where a long line of uniformed men and women honored the memory of Sgt. Mohl while offering their condolences to his family.

Officers from police departments across the state and beyond paid their respects on Wednesday, including New York State Police.

"He was a man of honor. A man of valor. Very wise man and a man who loved his family," CT State Trooper Pedro Muniz said during Mohl's wake on Wednesday.

Two of Mohls brothers are members of the New York State Police force.

They say it was in important support Connecticut State Police during this time.

We all act in solidarity with one another because we know in these very difficult times, we just have to be together and show support so we can get through these very difficult times, said New York State Police Sgt. James Whittel.

Mohl entered the State Police academy in 1994 and worked at several troops before arriving to Troop L in Litchfield.

Brad Cole of K9 First Responders brought Niko to help troopers cope during the services.

The group is a crisis intervention team where trained handlers use dogs to connect with first responders whove experienced psychological trauma.

We have met with some people who are directly involved in the incident. So, theyre able to see us again, reconnect and be able to have a moment of respite, Cole said.

Cole coordinated with other law enforcement to have more handlers and trained dogs be at Wednesdays visitation.

While the healing begins, many troopers are remembering Mohl as a leader.

Twenty-six years under his belt. He knew what he was doing, and he knew how to do it well, Muniz said.

Family of fallen state police sergeant releases statement The death of a Connecticut State Police sergeant who was swept away by flood waters in Woodbury has been ruled an accident.

The State Police Union has set up a fund to help Mohls family after it received several inquiries from fellow troopers, other law enforcement officers, and the public asking how they could provide financial assistance.

Connecticut mourns death of state police sergeant WOODBURY, Ct. (WFSB) - The entire state is mourning, after a Connecticut State Police (CSP) 

Anyone wishing to donate can search for the Venmo account @csp-union or a check can be sent to the Connecticut State Police Union, with a notation stating Sgt. Brian Mohl.

Donations can be mailed to: Sgt. Brian Mohl Fund, c/o CSPU, 500 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118.

"The State Police Union will work tirelessly to honor and pay tribute to Sergeant Mohl for the sacrifice he made to fulfill his oath of office as a State Trooper. We ask you to keep Sergeant Mohl, his family, and his Brother and Sister Troopers in your thoughts and prayers during this terribly difficult time," the union said in a press release.
The schedule for West End Live 2021 has been revealed!

Running later this month, the weekend sees a variety of iconic shows performed for free in front of uber-fans in Trafalgar Square.

Jason Manford and Ruthie Henshall will host the event, which has stipulated that all attendees aged 18 and over demonstrate their Covid status to gain entry. The event will also be BSL interpreted by Sue MacLaine, Marco Nardi and Caroline Richardson.

We've got the full schedule laid out here (take a breathe, it goes down a fair way).





Saturday 18 September

11.00 AM  The Prince Of Egypt

11.15 AM  Disney's Frozen

11.25 AM  Wicked

11.40 AM  Come From Away

11.55 AM  Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cinderella

12.05 PM  Hamilton

12.25 PM  The Phantom Of The Opera

12.40 PM  Mary Poppins

1.05 PM  Les Miserables

1.20 PM  Tina  The Tina Turner Musical

1.30 PM  Jersey Boys

1.50 PM  Mamma Mia!

2.05 PM  The Book Of Mormon

2.10 PM  Dreamgirls

2.25 PM  HMS Pinafore

2.35 PM  Magic Goes Wrong

2.50 PM  Ben Stock's West End Sing-A-Long

3.00 PM  Ferris & Milnes

3.15 PM  The Choir Of Man

3.30 PM  Doctor Who: Time Fracture

3.45 PM  Vanara The Musical

4 .00 PM  Bring It On The Musical

4.10 PM  What's New Pussycat?

4.20 PM  & Juliet

4.30 PM  Dear Evan Hansen

4.50 PM  Six

5.00 PM  Event Ends





Sunday 19 September

12.00 PM  Back To The Future The Musical

12.10 PM  Pretty Woman: The Musical

12.20 PM  Disney's The Lion King

12.30 PM  Amelie The Musical

12.45 PM  Pippin

1.00 PM  Matilda The Musical

1.05 PM  HMS Pinafore

1.20 PM  Grease The Musical

1.30 PM  Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World The Musical

1.45 PM  Six

2.00 PM  Roles We'll Never Play

2.15 PM  The Barricade Boys

2.30 PM  Best Of British Pop

2.45 PM  Children Of Eden 30th Anniversary Concert

2.55 PM  The Great Gatsby

3.05 PM  The Choir Of Man

3.20 PM  Queenz  The Show With Balls!

3.40 PM  Stop The Show  Mark Read

3.50 PM  Mtfestuk2021

4.05 PM  The Last Five Years

4.20 PM  Rock Of Ages

4.35 PM  Magic Mike Live

4.45 PM  Heathers The Musical

5.00 PM  Event Ends
It's not often that I realise I am entirely the wrong demographic for a theatre outing. I thought Frozen, with its girl power story of two sisters uniting to save the world through love and sisterhood, would suit me and my friend down to the ground. But as we walked into the sumptuously remodelled Drury Lane Theatre, I wasn't quite so sure. We seemed to be the only people in the audience who weren't dressed in blue satin dresses or purple cloaks  or their parents.

This is the problem for Frozen, the musical. The 2013 Disney cartoon on which it is based is so popular with young children, families have found themselves watching it on solid repeat. Its sisters Elsa, who has the magic power of freezing anything she puts her mind to, and Anna who refuses to leave her to her fate, are indelible brand images, their clothes filling countless dressing up boxes. There's also a comic snowman (Olaf) and a kind ice-seller, Kristoff, to mimic and enjoy.

Stephanie McKeon and Obioma Ugoala

 Johan Persson

Michael Grandage's stage production consequently can't stray too far from the original without alienating the people it seeks to attract. On Broadway, this proved a problem. The show opened to slightly chilly reviews, and closed permanently when lockdown came, after only 850 performances. But the US doesn't have the British tradition of panto  and if you regard Frozen as an unseasonal Christmas treat, then it is the most enormous fun. It's got snow, ice, comic characters, mystic figures with eyes that light up and some belting songs, with new numbers added by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez to the seven, in the film. The book by Jennifer Lee has its problems  the girls are on separate adventures, Anna accompanied by the comic characters, Elsa stuck in her ice palace  but it is also a celebration of sisterly affection and the heroines are anything but sinecures.

Grandage and his team  designer Christopher Oram, and lighting designer Neil Austin  have thrown every theatrical trick in the book at the show to make it come to theatrical life, and a lot of it sticks. The opening scenes where the inseparable young princesses Elsa and Anna (charming Tilly-Raye Bayer and lively Asande Masike) are torn apart by Elsa's magical powers are fluidly and energetically staged, with warm yellow lights bathing a medieval palace, with high windows, massive doors and painted wood-panelled walls sliding in and out of place.

Samantha Barks

 Johan Persson

Once Elsa's powers are revealed at her coronation, the production doesn't try to disguise the fact that a stage can't do things as seamlessly as a cartoon: the icicles that snap into place at the side of the stage are beautiful but clearly unreal. Yet Austin's wonderfully inventive lighting, and the simple tricks of curtains covered with crystals, does make the new ice palace the most magical place. Its sheer size makes Anna's journey across a 70ft ice bridge, with Kristoff (a beaming and endearing Obioma Ugoala) and his reindeer Sven (an amazingly balletic Ashley Birchall, inside a shaggy costume) pretty impressive.

The fact that you can see Craig Gallivan as he manipulates the model of the snowman Olaf, and speaks his lines, adds rather than detracts from the humorous effect. Rob Ashford's choreography contributes a certain swirling liveliness for a lot of peasants on the move, and one brilliantly effective number to Hygge, where naked (well, body-stockinged) sauna takers with twigs are transformed into a chorus line.

In the centre of all this busy action, of course, are Stephanie McKeon and Samantha Barks. Barks' is a beautiful Elsa, the crystal clarity of her voice cutting through the soaring "Let It Go", but also bringing a tender wistfulness to songs such as "Dangerous to Dream". McKeon is terrific fun, her wide-eyed Anna coloured with exactly the right sense of adventure and determination. Together the sisters  who now have a song where they reflect their feelings for each other  power the show, bringing warmth to its frozen heart. Which is exactly as it should be. It isn't art, but it isn't a cartoon either.

You exit via the gift shop, but you will have been entertained en route.
Authorities say a Suffolk County employee secretly installed dozens of machines in his workplace in a cryptocurrency scheme and cost the county at least $6,000 in electricity bills
Programme Budget Officer, Tunis, Tunisia

Organization: UNICEF - United Nations Childrens Fund

Country: Tunisia

City: Tunis

Office: UNICEF Tunis, Tunisia

Grade: NO-A

Closing date: Sunday, 12 September 2021

Programme Budget Officer, NOA, FT, Tunis, Tunisia#11773

Job no: 544061

Position type: Fixed Term Appointment

Location: Tunisia Division/Equivalent: Amman(MENA)

School/Unit: Tunisia

Department/Office: Tunis, Tunisia

Categories: Operations and Business Management

UNICEF works in some of the worlds toughest places, to reach the worlds most disadvantaged children. To save their lives. To defend their rights. To help them fulfill their potential.

Across 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, every day, to build a better world for everyone.

And we never give up.

For every child, Hope...

The Programme Budget (and HACT) Officer works in close collaboration with a range of staff in the CO, external partners and agency counterparts in support of effective programme management and delivery. S/He provides regular feedback on the status of implementation through monitoring benchmarks and advises on improvements to keep activities on track.

How can you make a difference?

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

Supports the Programme and Planning Specialist and the Deputy Representative in overall planning, monitoring and management of Programme budgets, performance and implementing partnership (IP), using key organizational tools such as VISION, eTools and others as relevant

Contributes to the preparation of reports, Programme documents and correspondence with government by providing information, preparing tables and drafting analytical sections, related to budget, programme performance and IP management. Prepares background information for use in discussions with government and other organizations.

Prepares and analyses monitoring and reporting information for supervisor and team on budget, office scorecard performance indicators, and IP management to drive efficient management and accountability for results. Prepares data for review in CMT and programme meetings, following-up on actions to address areas requiring attention across the office.

Supports annual budget planning and regularly monitors budgets and financial expenditures of section by employing applicable tools, ensuring compliance with UNICEF rules and regulations, keeping supervisor informed and advised on actions for decision and/or follow up.

Helps prepare periodic or ad-hoc financial and performance management reports relating to country office and donors to support the office in optimizing use of programme funds.

Serves as a HACT Focal Point for the Programme, in close collaboration with the HACT focal point for Operations. Provides technical support in HACT implementation to all sections. Contributes to HACT training of UNICEF staff members and implementing partners. Support programme sections to effectively use eTools to plan, document and analyses result from assurance activities.

Serves as eTools Focal Point for the Programme, providing assistance to programme officers in the use of the system and serving as PCARC Secretariat. Facilitates the development of Programme cooperation agreements (PCAs), Programme Documents (PDs), and/or Small-Scale Funding Agreements (SSFAs) by orienting staff and partners on the use of all modules related to civil society organizations.

Supports the programme section in researching, compiling, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data and information from a variety of sources on subject matters relevant to the work of the section to facilitate programme delivery as well as preparation of reports, working papers and presentations.

To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have...

A University Degree in administration, finance, or any other related field of discipline relevant to the job is required

A minimum of one year of programme administration, accounting and programme monitoring work experience is required. Prior experience in programme management, finance functions is an asset.

Relevant experience in a UN system agency or organization is considered as an asset.

Fluency in French, English and Arabic is required. Knowledge of local language of the duty station is considered as an asset.

For every Child, you demonstrate...

UNICEFs values of Care, Respect, Integrity, Trust, and Accountability (CRITA) and core competencies in Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results.

The UNICEF competencies required for this post are...

Core Values

Care

Tags business management central africa monitoring and reporting performance management programme management

Respect

Integrity

Trust

Accountability

Core Competencies

Demonstrates Self Awareness and Ethical Awareness (1)

Works Collaboratively with others (1)

Builds and Maintains Partnerships (1)

Innovates and Embraces Change (1)

Thinks and Acts Strategically (1)

Drive to achieve impactful results (1)

Manages ambiguity and complexity (1)

Functional Competencies

Analyzing (2)

Applying technical expertise (2)

Planning and organizing (2)

Following Instructions and Procedures (2)

To view our competency framework, please visit here.

Click here to learn more about UNICEFs values and competencies.

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages all candidates, irrespective of gender, nationality, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of the organization.

UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and UNICEF, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, abuse of authority and discrimination. UNICEF also adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Background checks will include the verification of academic credential(s) and employment history. Selected candidates may be required to provide additional information to conduct a background check.

Remarks:

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and advance to the next stage of the selection process.

Advertised: Aug 23 2021 W. Central Africa Standard Time Application close: Sep 12 2021 W. Central Africa Standard Time

Link to the organizations job offer: https://unjobs.org/vacancies/1631001587089
Willmar, MN (56201)

Today

Partly cloudy. High 76F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 63F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph.
SKOPJE, North Macedonia (AP)  Police and public health officials in North Macedonia say at least 10 people died and many others were injured in a fire at a makeshift hospital for COVID-19 patients.

The blaze occurred late Wednesday in the western city of Tetovo, where the facility was set up following a recent spike in infections in the region.
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Winchester, VA (22601)

Today

Partly cloudy with afternoon showers or thunderstorms. High 86F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Winchester, VA (22601)

Today

Partial cloudiness early, with scattered showers and thunderstorms during the afternoon. High 86F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms early, then cloudy skies after midnight. Low 63F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
PARIS (AP)  France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday.

FILE - In this March 7, 2021 file photo, activists shout slogans, as protesters and activists gather at Republique square on the eve of the International Women's Day in Paris. France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday. The measure will also include free medical visits around contraception, and will start Jan. 1, 2022 (AP Photo/Lewis Joly, File)

PARIS (AP)  France will offer free birth control to all women up to age 25 starting next year, the health minister announced Thursday.

The measure will also include free medical visits about contraception, and will start Jan. 1, Health Minister Olivier Veran announced on France-2 television.

All contraceptive methods were already free for girls up to 18 years old, and that is being expanded to all women up to 25. Abortions in France are free for everyone.

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Veran said young women are using contraception less than they used to, and that the main reason is financial. He didn't cite specific data. Frances state health care system covers some birth control costs but not all of them.

Its intolerable that women arent able to to protect themselves, arent able to use contraception if they make that choice, because it would cost too much, Veran said.

The measure will cost the government about 21 million euros (nearly $25 million) per year, he said.

Finally! tweeted Alyssa Ahrabare of activist group Osez le feminisme. The high price of medical consultations and contraception blocks access for several women to this essential right that allows them to keep control of their bodies and lives.

The health minister didn't address contraception methods for men, or specify whether the measure would apply to trans and nonbinary people. The Health Ministry did not respond to queries seeking clarification.

Several other European countries offer free or subsidized contraception. Contraceptive methods cost nothing in Britain, for example, and Spain's health system provides funding for 48 different birth control methods, and those administered in health centers are free.
The average cost of treating a COVID-19 patient who needs intensive care in Canada is estimated at over $50,000 compared with $8,400 for someone who's had a heart attack, a new report says.

A nurse attends to a patient in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit at Surrey Memorial Hospital in Surrey, B.C., Friday, June 4, 2021. The average cost of treating a COVID-19 patient who needs intensive care in Canada is estimated at over $50,000 compared with $8,400 for someone who's had a heart attack, a new report says. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jonathan Hayward

The average cost of treating a COVID-19 patient who needs intensive care in Canada is estimated at over $50,000 compared with $8,400 for someone who's had a heart attack, a new report says.

Data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information show the average cost for patients being treated for the virus is more than $23,000, which is four times higher than a patient with influenza.

Ann Chapman, interim director of health spending and primary care at the agency, said the report reinforces the economic consequences of a serious illness, though it does not include the cost for doctors.

The report released Thursday says those with COVID-19 remain in hospital for about 15 days, twice as long as the typical pneumonia patient whose treatment cost is about $8,000, and that more of those sick with the virus are admitted to ICU and ventilated. One out of every five of them dies in intensive care.

The agency estimated the cost of COVID-19-related hospitalization in Canada, excluding Quebec, at nearly $1 billion between January 2020 and March 2021, the period covered by the report. It says the cost tripled between November 2020 and March.

Chapman said data on costs from the fourth wave of the pandemic, up to September, is expected to be released in December.

She said the average COVID-19 patient who spends time in the ICU stays in hospital for 21 days and is much sicker than most other patients.

Dr. Donald Redelmeier, a professor at the University of Toronto's faculty of medicine, said costs spiral quickly for any patient receiving intensive care.

"The one major distinction about COVID patients in the ICU is they stay a long time. They take a long time to recover, if they recover at all," he said.

It's not unusual for patients who've contracted the virus to remain in ICU on a ventilator for over a month as they're treated by multiple personnel including physiotherapists and respiratory therapists, he said.

Indirect costs are another economic consequence of the pandemic because some patients are reluctant to seek care in emergency rooms and others, including cancer patients, have had their treatment delayed due to backlogs, noted Redelmeier, who is also a staff doctor at Sunnybrook Hospital.

Walter Wodchis, a health economist at the University of Toronto's Dana Lana School of Public Health, said treating COVID-19 patients is just one aspect of the pandemic's overall cost to society.

"There are more hospitalizations among youth for mental health-related reasons than in prior years. And we've lost a lot of life years from people who've ended up on opioids. I don't think the increase in opioids was independent of the COVID crisis."

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In British Columbia alone, 1,011 people died of suspected illicit overdoses between January and June, the highest-ever death toll in the province for the first six months of a year.

Wodchis said isolation during the pandemic has caused others to leave the workforce, and layers of costs are associated with those decisions.

Hospital costs for those with COVID-19 who later recover may be lower in the end compared with perhaps $80,000 over a decade of care for patients with cardiovascular diseases based on years of poor eating habits, for example, he said.

Wodchis also noted the report was based on data up until March 2021 when vaccines were less readily available.

"I think we need to have a more generic, general discussion about how do we allocate the scarce health-care resources, as opposed to singling out one population."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 9, 2021.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australia's government confirmed Thursday that it refused to allow climate change goals to be written into a proposed free trade deal with Britain, as pressure mounts on it to make more ambitious commitments to cut carbon emissions.

CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australia's government confirmed Thursday that it refused to allow climate change goals to be written into a proposed free trade deal with Britain, as pressure mounts on it to make more ambitious commitments to cut carbon emissions.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the trade deal under negotiation with Britain was not the document to include U.N. goals to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial temperatures, and preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit.)

It wasnt a climate agreement; it was a trade agreement, Morrison said.

In trade agreements, I deal with trade issues. In climate agreements, I deal with climate issues, he added.

British ministers had agreed to bow to pressure from Australia to drop binding commitments to the Paris climate change agreement from the bilateral trade deal, Sky News reported citing an email from an unnamed British official sent last month.

The report angered environmentalists who questioned Britains commitment to curbing greenhouse gas emissions ahead of hosting a U.N. climate summit, known as COP26, in Scotland in November.

Trade Minister Dan Tehan said climate targets were never part of free trade agreements that Australia enters into.

This agreement recognizes were signed up to Paris and that well meet our Paris targets, which we will do hands down, Tehan told Radio 4BC.

We got a fantastic outcome both for Australia and the U.K. in that F.T.A., which were seeking to finalize at the moment, Tehan added, referring to a free trade agreement.

Reducing emissions is a politically fraught issue in Australia, which is one of the world's largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. The nation is also one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Resources Minister Keith Pitt said in a statement on Thursday that coal remained Australias largest export after iron ore and that wont be changing any time soon.

This followed U.N. Special Adviser on Climate Change Selwin Hart this week urging Australia to phase out coal.

Australia has not budged from its 2015 pledge at the Paris climate conference to reduce emissions by 26% to 28% below 2005 levels by 2030 ahead of climate talks in Glasgow.

The conservative government aims to reduce emissions to net-zero and preferably by 2050, but wont commit to that target.

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Opposition leader Anthony Albanese accused Morrison of holding Australia back on renewable energy opportunities to create jobs and reduce energy prices.

The Paris commitments are something that Australia has signed up to, but which Australia continues to sit in the naughty corner with the rest of the world, Albanese said.

The whole world has signed up to net-zero emissions by 2050. Scott Morrison continues to be a recalcitrant when it comes to climate change action, Albanese added.

Greenpeace executive David Ritter accused Australia of diplomatic bullying to weaken the global climate effort.

The Morrison government is resorting to sleazy backroom deals and pressure tactics to shirk the commitments it has made to the world on climate change, Ritter said in a statement.

Jonathan Pershing, deputy to U.S. presidential climate envoy John Kerry, told a climate forum last month it would be really helpful if Australia were more ambitious in reducing emissions.
TORONTO - Canadian bank CEOs say they are looking to grow their U.S. operations as the country shows a strong economic rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Brian Porter, president and CEO of Scotiabank, addresses the company's annual meeting in Calgary, Tuesday, April 12, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

TORONTO - Canadian bank CEOs say they are looking to grow their U.S. operations as the country shows a strong economic rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scotiabank CEO Brian Porter, speaking Thursday at the bank's virtual Financials Summit, said the country was showing a stronger rebound than other markets Scotiabank operates in like the Caribbean and Latin America.

The economic recovery isnt even around the globe, as we all know. Clearly the U.S. is leading the pack.

He said that Canada wasn't far behind, though in the second quarter the U.S. recorded GDP growth of 6.6 per cent, while Canada's GDP saw a revised dip of 0.3 per cent.

Porter said Scotiabank is looking to expand its U.S. wealth business through an acquisition, though he said it wouldn't be sizable dollar-wise.

The one piece of the business wed like to add over time is a bigger U.S. presence in terms of our wealth business.

RBC CEO Dave McKay said the bank is looking to use its base in the U.S. to tap into the potential $60 billion to $70 billion of mid-sized corporate revenue up for grabs in lending and transactions.

The bank will use its base of City National Bank, the Los Angeles-based operation it acquired in 2015, plus its U.S. Wealth and Capital Markets segments to snag both corporate and high net-worth clients.

We aspire to acquire a number of new clients through those channels...these are all growth vectors for us in a very large, but competitive, profit pool."

BMO chief executive Darryl White said the bank continues to expand its capacity in the U.S. so that when excess liquidity from government programs wind down, the bank will be ready for growth.

Were opening new businesses in commercial (banking) in places like Florida, like Texas, like Colorado as recently as a couple of weeks ago."

TD Bank CEO Bharat Masrani also said that more growth will come in the U.S. once programs like the Paycheck Protection Program wind down.

"Once all this extraordinary fiscal and monetary side clears off, were feeling very happy as to where were headed.

He said that with more than 10 million clients, TD already has a strong presence to grow organically, but they're still looking to grow their wealth management offerings, and he wouldn't rule out more mergers and acquisitions.

"Theres a huge amount of potential there, and if there is a way that M&A might accelerate our growth aspirations, of course we should look at it seriously.

CIBC chief executive Victor Dodig said the bank has expanded in the U.S. with several acquisitions in recent years, including Wellington Financial in 2018 to launch its innovation banking division for tech clients.

The bank has reorganized it innovation banking division to merge the Canadian and U.S. sections into a single cross-border entity as it chases the huge flows of capital into the space.

We are seeing really good growth in the technology space. Were emerging as a leader in Canada, and we have a good footprint in the U.S. from Silicon Valley right through to Boston," said Dodig.

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The bank also bought a Chicago-based bank for almost $5 billion in 2017, as well as made several wealth management acquisitions in recent years.

Dodig said that in seven years the U.S has gone from representing less than five per cent of the bank's revenue to approaching 21 per cent.

He said the bank's target is around 25 per cent of revenue from the U.S., and CIBC is looking for organic growth as it expands commercial banking to markets like New York, California and Texas, and adds private banking capabilities in 15 markets including plans to roll out storefront private banking over time

Were really pleased with the investments in the U.S.," said Dodig.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept 9, 2021.

Companies in this story: (TSX:BNS, TSX:RY, TSX:TD; TSX;BMO, TSX:CM)
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday it would seek to restart a process that could restrict mining in Alaskas Bristol Bay region, which is renowned for its salmon runs.

FILE - In this July 13, 2007, file photo, workers with the Pebble Mine project test drill in the Bristol Bay region of Alaska, near the village of Iliamma. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, it would seek to restart a process that could restrict mining in Alaska's Bristol Bay region, which is renowned for its salmon runs. The announcement is the latest in a long-running dispute over a proposed copper-and-gold mine in the southwest Alaska region. (AP Photo/Al Grillo, File)

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday it would seek to restart a process that could restrict mining in Alaskas Bristol Bay region, which is renowned for its salmon runs.

The announcement is the latest in a long-running dispute over a proposed copper-and-gold mine in the southwest Alaska region.

FILE - This June 25, 2019, file photo shows people gathered outside U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski's office in Juneau, Alaska, to protest the proposed Pebble Mine. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, it would seek to restart a process that could restrict mining in Alaska's Bristol Bay region, which is renowned for its salmon runs. The announcement is the latest in a long-running dispute over a proposed copper-and-gold mine in the southwest Alaska region. (AP Photo/Becky Bohrer, File)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in November 2020, under the Trump administration, denied key authorization for the proposed Pebble Mine following an environmental review from the agency months earlier that the developer had viewed as a favorable to the project.

In the rejection decision, a corps official concluded the project would result in significant degradation of the aquatic ecosystem and that it was contrary to the public interest.

The Pebble Limited Partnership, the mine developer owned by Canada-based Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd., is appealing that determination.

As the Biden Administration seeks lower carbon emissions for energy production, they should recognize that such change will require significantly more mineral production  notably copper, Mike Heatwole, a Pebble partnership spokesperson, said in an email. The Pebble Project remains an important domestic source for the minerals necessary for the administration to reach its green energy goals.

Restrictions on mining in the region were proposed but never finalized under the Obama administration.

In 2019, during the Trump administration, Matthew Leopold, who was EPA general counsel, directed then-regional administrator Chris Hladick to decide whether to move forward with the proposed restrictions or withdraw them.

Hladick withdrew them and the agency at the time said it was removing what it called an outdated, preemptive proposed veto of the Pebble Mine and allowing the project to be vetted through the permitting process.

Earlier this year, a divided appeals court panel, in a case challenging the 2019 action, concluded a regional administrator was allowed to take the actions Hladick did only if the discharge of materials would be unlikely to have an unacceptable adverse effect.

The matter was sent back to a lower court to determine if the EPAs action was arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion or contrary to law.

U.S. government attorneys, in a court filing Thursday, said the EPA acknowledges that it did not address the standard that the Ninth Circuit subsequently determined must be met for withdrawal of a proposed determination.

The EPA, in a statement, said it is asking the judge to vacate the 2019 action. If granted, it said that would automatically reinitiate" the review process, through which mine-related activities could be restricted or prohibited.

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan called the Bristol Bay watershed an Alaskan treasure that underscores the critical value of clean water in America. Todays announcement reinforces once again EPAs commitment to making science-based decisions to protect our natural environment.

He added: "Whats at stake is preventing pollution that would disproportionately impact Alaska Natives, and protecting a sustainable future for the most productive salmon fishery in North America.

The EPA has said Bristol Bay supports the world's largest sockeye salmon runs and that the watershed contains significant mineral resources.

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Nelli Williams, Alaska director for Trout Unlimited, one of the groups that sued over the 2019 action, said proposed restrictions would provide an important layer of protection that makes it much more difficult for the Pebble Partnership, or any other companies in the future, to mine the Pebble ore deposit.

Northern Dynasty President and CEO Ron Thiessen, in a statement Thursday, said the Pebble project "can be designed, built and operated with industry-leading environmental safeguards while generating significant financial returns over multiple decades.

The company touted a preliminary economic review it said also looked at potential expansion possibilities and alternative ways to recover gold.

But the statement said neither Northern Dynasty nor the Pebble partnership has proposed or intends to propose any of these development alternatives in the near-term for regulatory approval.

___

This version corrects the spelling of the first name of the director for Trout Unlimited.
TOKYO (AP)  Objective, science-based monitoring is the key to safely carrying out the planned release of treated but still radioactive water at Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant, an International Atomic Energy Agency official said Thursday.

In this image made from video, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency Lydie Evrad, speaks to media via video conference concerning the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, damaged in the massive earthquake and tsunami in 2011, Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. The three-member team led by Evrard, is in Japan for a five-day visit for a preliminary talks and visit to the nuclear power plant to prepare for the IAEA's multi-year monitoring and review of the planned water discharge, which is expected to take decades. (Foreign Press Center Japan via AP)

TOKYO (AP)  Objective, science-based monitoring is the key to safely carrying out the planned release of treated but still radioactive water at Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant, an International Atomic Energy Agency official said Thursday.

A three-member IAEA team led by Lydie Evrard, head of the agency's Department of Nuclear Safety and Security, is in Japan for preliminary talks and a visit to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which suffered reactor meltdowns after a massive 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

The team is preparing for years of monitoring by the IAEA before, during and after the planned discharge of water into the sea, which is expected to take decades. The water was used to cool the plant's reactors but started to leak after the disaster. The water is treated, and some is reused as cooling water and the rest is stored in tanks.

The government and the plants operator, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, announced plans in April to start releasing the water in the spring of 2023 so hundreds of storage tanks at the plant can be gradually removed to make room for other facilities needed for its decommissioning.

The idea has been fiercely opposed by fishermen, local residents and Japans neighbors, including China and South Korea.

Japan has requested IAEAs assistance to ensure the discharge meets safety standards, to gain the understanding of the international community, and to prevent rumors that may hurt the reputation of food products from the Fukushima area.

More than a decade after the disaster, Fukushima fisheries and agricultural products are still shunned by many consumers.

Evrard said her team and the Japanese side discussed data necessary to compile a safe and transparent plan as well as how to disseminate information to concerned communities in Japan and abroad.

The project is unique because of the technical specificities, the duration of the release and the level of international and regional interest and scrutiny that the plan will receive, she said.

After another preparatory discussion next month, the IAEA will send an 11-member team of experts to Japan in December for a fuller review of the project, which would include another visit to the plant, officials said.

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That team will characterize the water to be released and evaluate the safety of the discharge process and its radiation impact on humans and the environment. It also plans to conduct water and marine water sampling.

Evrard said that team will have members from multiple countries, possibly including China and South Korea, for greater transparency and to address diverse views.

She said her team will listen to all concerns expressed and will provide answers by conducting a science-based review carried out in an objective and transparent way.

The contaminated water at the plant has been stored in about 1,000 tanks, which the plants operator, TEPCO, says will reach their capacity late next year.

TEPCO plans to send the water through an undersea tunnel and discharge it from a location about 1 kilometer (0.6 mile) away from the coastal power plant after further treating and diluting it with large amounts of seawater to bring it below releasable limits. The plan still needs approval by the Japanese Nuclear Regulation Authority.

Government and TEPCO officials say tritium, which is not harmful in small amounts, cannot be removed from the water, but all other isotopes selected for treatment can be reduced to safe levels. Controlled release of tritium from normal nuclear plants is a routine global practice, officials say.
NEW YORK (AP)  Franklin Anchahua cleared thick layers of dust in offices, apartments and even in a chapel in lower Manhattan for weeks after the Sept. 11 attacks.

Franklin Anchahua-Herrera sits for a portrait in a room that he shares with his father, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2021, in the Queens borough of New York. Anchahua-Herrera has several health conditions certified by the World Trade Center Health Program that are approved for treatment benefits for individuals who worked at the site in the aftermath of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. (AP Photo/John Minchillo)

NEW YORK (AP)  Franklin Anchahua cleared thick layers of dust in offices, apartments and even in a chapel in lower Manhattan for weeks after the Sept. 11 attacks.

At first, he treated his heartburn and acid reflux with herbs his mother would send from Peru. He avoided available health programs because he lives illegally in the U.S. and feared deportation.

Until the discomfort was too much.

It was awful. I needed medical treatment, a specialist. I also had breathing problems, said Anchahua, 50, who sought care for the first time at Bellevue Hospital in 2011.

He and other immigrants, mostly Spanish-speaking clean up workers, have long asked to obtain legal immigration status in the U.S. as a way to compensate for the work and subsequent health problems they suffered after the attacks.

But 20 years after 9/11, only several dozens are still participating in protests and making the request, while others have abandoned that fight.

It is hard to find a job here without immigration status, Anchahua said. Attorneys who helped us years ago told us we would get immigration papers but, look, 20 years have passed and we have nothing."

Not as visible as those who worked on the World Trade Center rubble pile, some of these cleaners didnt seek medical help immediately because they feared deportation, ignored how to navigate the application process or did not know help was available.

While some say they feel forgotten by the U.S. government, others returned to Latin America.

Hired informally by cleaning companies, they cleared debris, asbestos and dust inside lower Manhattan buildings for months without adequate protective gear. Some are struggling to cope with how the disaster transformed their lives, saying they are also treated for anxiety, depression and post traumatic disorder.

A few of them are organizing a small protest in October to push the government to establish a pathway for legal residency for immigrant cleanup workers.

They have done similar protests in the past. Former U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley announced a bill in 2017 to put Sept. 11 responders and cleanup workers on a fast track to legal immigration status in the U.S. His office estimated then that 1,000 to 2,000 immigrants would be covered.

The bill did not go very far; it was not reintroduced by any of Congressman Crowleys fellow cosponsors after he retired.

The office of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who defeated Crowley in midterm election primaries in 2018, told AP it was actively exploring the possibility of reintroducing the bill.

The Congresswoman is also supportive of greater immigration reform, co-sponsoring many pieces of legislation that would have provided a path to citizenship for these workers as well as others, said Ocasio-Cortez spokesperson Lauren Hitt.

While many of the cleaners were from Latin America, others were from Poland and other European countries. They organized in different groups and shared information about medical help and forms of compensation.

Rosa Bramble Caballero, a licensed clinical social worker, has helped these workers for 15 years, first in partnership with state and local programs to assist them and afterward voluntarily, organizing meetings at the basement of her office in Queens.

Dozens of cleanup workers have shown up there to talk, eat chicken and cheese empanadas, and sip coffee together.

This became a space so they could feel safe, talk about their lives, about their needs, but most of all, support each other, not feel alone, said Bramble Caballero.

Lucelly Gil, a 65-year-old Colombian, is a regular at the Queens gatherings.

She received compensation from the federal victims fund after developing breast cancer and takes medication for rhinitis and gastritis. She is being treated for depression and uses an asthma inhaler.

Gil spent six months cleaning debris in lower Manhattan, at government offices, banks and restaurants. She made about $60 for every eight hours of work.

She said she had nightmares for a long time after seeing first responders retrieve body parts. She vividly remembers her cough while working and the rashes in her skin after tearing down fiberglass insulating paper from walls.

Instead of giving us some compensation, they could have given us (immigration) papers, she said. All of us, all of the Hispanic workers, we saw the consequences of that cleanup work later on."

More than 112,000 people have enrolled in the federal World Trade Center Health Program, which offers free medical care to people who can document that they were exposed to dust from the twin towers, regardless of their immigration status.

Many of those enrollees have mild or controllable conditions, like heartburn, chronic sinus problems or asthma, that are common in the general public and may or may not be linked to the attacks. Others are more seriously ill or developed conditions rare for their age group.

Joan Reibman, medical director at the World Trade Center Environmental Health Center, which has treated cleanup workers for years, said that many of them have developed a significant reduction in lung function, digestive disorders and PTSD.

They were exposed to terrible sights in those days, she said.

They faced barriers in seeking care, like economic vulnerabilities and not belonging to a union, she said.

Many of them were not aware of the programs because they were not connected in the same way that many other responders were. Many of them were also not English speakers, said Reibman.

About 800 cleanup workers are treated at the WTC Environmental Health Center, one of several places they could potentially get care.

The medical programs do not ask about immigration status.

About four years ago, Anchahua, the Peruvian immigrant, received $52,000 after filing a claim against the cleaning company he worked for in lower Manhattan after the attacks. Early last year he moved back to Peru to assist her elderly mother and a sick brother.

He decided, however, to return to New York this year after not finding work in his homeland and concluding that he needed to continue medical treatment. He asked the U.S. government for a humanitarian visa, which was denied. He crossed the border illegally through Mexico last month.

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Luis Soriano, another cleanup worker, also left for Latin America but decided not to return to the U.S.

My mother was getting old so I moved to Ecuador in 2016. But my health wasn't great," said the 59-year-old artisan mannequin maker in a phone interview.

Soriano cleared debris for three months around Fulton Street. He still sometimes feels fatigue or shortness of breath.. Medication for that, however, is expensive in Ecuador and he cant afford it, he said.

We need to be remembered. We were all immigrants who contributed to the U.S. We worked hard there, paid taxes, grew old there. Some cleanup workers I knew died of cancer, he said. We should all be remembered for what we did.

___

This story has been updated to correct the spelling of Franklin Anchahuas last name.
PHOENIX -- Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says President Joe Biden is overreaching with his new requirement for employees of large businesses to be vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19.

A woman wearing a face mask to protect against COVID-19 uses an exercise machine at a public park in Beijing, Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

PHOENIX -- Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey says President Joe Biden is overreaching with his new requirement for employees of large businesses to be vaccinated or regularly tested for COVID-19.

The Republican governor said the Biden rule requires pushback and response but declined to say how the state would respond.

Ducey has encouraged people to get vaccinated but has worked aggressively to block mandates of all kinds, including for vaccines and face coverings.

Ducey said the Biden administration rule will lead people to quit their jobs, leaving businesses and schools in a lurch. ___

MORE ON THE PANDEMIC:

 In COVID-slammed Idaho, schools risk buckling hospitals

 WHO: Africas already thin vaccine supply to drop by 25%

A police officer walks past burned hospital equipment on the site of a destroyed field hospital following a fire in North Macedonia's northwestern city of Tetovo, early Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. The government of North Macedonia will hold an emergency meeting Thursday over a fire overnight that ripped through a field hospital set up to treat COVID-19 patients, leaving numerous people dead. (AP Photo/Visar Kryeziu)

 President Biden to lay out plans to boost vaccine uptake

 Long COVID can affect children and teens as well as adults

___

 See AP coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.

___

HERES WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

LOS ANGELES -- The Los Angeles board of education has voted to require students 12 and older to be vaccinated against the coronavirus if they attend in-person classes in the nations second-largest school district.

The boards vote Thursday makes Los Angeles by far the largest of a very small number of districts with a vaccine requirement. Nearby Culver City imposed a similar policy last month for its 7,000 students. LA has about 630,000 students.

A man wearing a face mask to protect against COVID-19 stands amid a rock formation at a public park in Beijing, Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

Under the plan for Los Angeles, students 12 and up who participate in sports and other extracurricular activities need to be fully vaccinated by the end of October. Others would have until Dec. 19.

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MINNEAPOLIS __ More than 100 Minnesota schools from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade reported infections last week as students returned to classrooms across the state, according to a weekly COVID-19 report released by the Minnesota Department of Health on Thursday.

The figure is up from previous weeks but remains a fraction of the number of infections reported in schools during a surge in virus cases statewide late last year.

Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm said during a Thursday briefing that officials remain concerned about the growth in cases in school and childcare settings and the broader implications that has for transmission in communities as students go back to school. Malcolm stressed vaccinations for all people 12 and older, as well as masking for all students, teachers, staff and visitors regardless of vaccination status, among other mitigation methods.

The decisions we make as individuals dont just affect us individually, they have ripple effects that go deep into the community, she said. We do know, all of us, how important in-person learning is for students and we need to take the right actions to make that in-person learning possible and safe.

Just over 72% of Minnesotans 16 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and more than 68% have been fully inoculated as of Tuesday, according to a state dashboard.

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Marriott human resources recruiter Mariela Cuevas, left, talks to Lisbet Oliveros, during a job fair at Hard Rock Stadium, Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla. The number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits fell sharply last week to 310,000, a pandemic low and a sign that the surge in COVID-19 cases caused by the delta variant has yet to lead to widespread layoffs. (AP Photo/Marta Lavandier)

LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said President Joe Bidens order that private businesses require employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is not the right answer for boosting vaccination rates.

I have been consistent in the freedom of businesses to require their employees to be vaccinated, and I have opposed the government from saying businesses cannot exercise that freedom, Hutchinson, a Republican who chairs the National Governors Association, said in a statement. The same principle should protect the private sector from government overreach that requires them to vaccinate all employees.

Some of Arkansas largest employers are already requiring workers to get vaccinated.

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HELENA, Mont.  Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte is calling a new vaccination mandate that could affect as many as 100 million Americans unlawful and un-American.

Gianforte, a Republican, said in a Tweet on Thursday that he is committed to protecting Montanans freedoms and liberties against this gross federal overreach.

Montana is the only state in the U.S. with a law that makes it illegal for private employers to require vaccines as a condition for employment. That new requirement appears to clash with parts of the mandate, which tells all private businesses with 100 or more employees to require them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 or get tested weekly for the respiratory virus.

The Montana law was passed earlier this year by the Republican-dominated state Legislature despite pushback from the states hospital association and other medical groups straining under the weight of a new surge in COVID-19 infections.

Three packages of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine sit in cold storage Friday, Aug. 13, 2021, in the Cameron County Public Health's pharmacy in San Benito, Texas.(Denise Cathey/The Brownsville Herald via AP)

A Montana Hospital Association spokesperson said in an email on Thursday that their legal counsel will evaluate the new mandate to determine how to comply with federal and state law.

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JACKSON, Miss.  Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves sharply criticized President Joe Bidens announcement that employers with at least 100 workers would have to require the workers to be vaccinated or tested weekly for COVID-19.

The President has no authority to require that Americans inject themselves because of their employment at a private business, Reeves wrote on Twitter. The vaccine itself is life-saving, but this unconstitutional move is terrifying. This is still America, and we still believe in freedom from tyrants.

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OLYMPIA, Wash. - Washington Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday that starting next week, the states indoor mask mandate will be expanded to include outdoor events with 500 or more attendees, regardless of vaccination status.

The new requirement  which takes effect Monday  comes days after a similar outdoor mask mandates took effect in the states two most populous counties, King and Pierce, due to rising COVID-19 cases.

An indoor mask mandate, regardless of vaccination status, has been in place in Washington since Aug. 23. Last month, Oregon was the first state to reinstitute a statewide mask requirement for outdoor public areas where people are close together.

Stephen Chilton, owner of the Rebel Lounge, sits in his music club Thursday, Aug. 26, 2021, in Phoenix. Chilton has struggled to keep his business open in the months since COVID hit Arizona. Arizona on Friday, Aug. 27, surpassed the milestone of 1 million confirmed coronavirus cases after the state reported new infections amid continued wrangling over vaccinations and mask requirements. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

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WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden has announced sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant.

Speaking at the White House Thursday, Biden sharply criticized the roughly 80 million Americans who are not yet vaccinated, despite months of availability and incentives.

Weve been patient. But our patience is wearing thin, and your refusal has cost all of us, he said, all but biting off his words. The unvaccinated minority can cause a lot of damage, and they are.

The expansive rules mandate that all employers with more than 100 workers require them to be vaccinated or test for the virus weekly, affecting about 80 million Americans. And the roughly 17 million workers at health facilities that receive federal Medicare or Medicaid also will have to be fully vaccinated.

Biden is also signing an executive order to require vaccination for employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government  with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.

Biden announced the new requirements in a Thursday afternoon address from the White House as part of a new action plan to address the latest rise in coronavirus cases and the stagnating pace of COVID-19 shots that has raised doubts among the public over his handling of the pandemic.

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Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga is seen through a teleprompter as he speaks during his news conference at his office in Tokyo, Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. Japan announced Thursday it is extending a coronavirus state of emergency in Tokyo and 18 other areas until the end of September as health care systems remain under severe strain, although new infections have slowed slightly. (Kim Kyung-Hoon/Pool Photo via AP)

HARTFORD  Connecticut officials expressed concerns about inconsistent mask wearing and people shunning coronavirus vaccines after 37 people became infected in outbreaks at a summer camp, group home and a party.

Gov. Ned Lamont and acting state heath Commissioner Deidre Gifford said most of the people who became infected were not vaccinated and some of them spread the virus to relatives who did not go to those locations. All three outbreaks happened last month. Officials did not release the locations of the three outbreaks.

Also Thursday, the state Department of Correction reported that a 78-year-old state prison inmate died after contracting the coronavirus for a second time.

The male prisoner was detained at the MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield and died early Wednesday morning. Officials said he had several underlying health issues and had recovered from his first coronavirus infection last December.

The inmate, who was serving a 40-year sentence for sexual assault and risk of injury to a minor, was the first state prisoner to die from COVID-19 since January and the 20th inmate to die during the pandemic.

__

BOSTON  The U.S. Education Department has announced a new grant program for schools that get state funding withheld for defying state mask policies.

The measure aims to push back against governors in Iowa, South Carolina and other states attempting to block schools from requiring masks among students and teachers. Some states, including Florida, have withheld the salaries of school leaders who have required masks in defiance of state orders.

FILE - United Airlines employees work at ticket counters in Terminal 1 at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago, on Oct. 14, 2020. United Airlines said Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, that more than half its employees who weren't vaccinated last month have gotten their shots since the company announced that vaccines would be required. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh, File)

Those schools will soon be able to apply for federal grants under Project SAFE to make up for any money lost due to implementing public health measures backed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Education Secretary Miguel Cardona says school officials should be thanked, not punished, for taking steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and this program will allow them to continue that critical work of keeping students safe.

The money will come from an existing pool of federal funding that the Education Department can use on a range of student safety initiatives. The agency says it will invite districts to apply in the coming weeks.

___

ROME  Italy has sent two vaccination teams to the Sicilian island of Lampedusa to vaccinate newly arrived migrants against the coronavirus.

Interior Minister Luciana Lamorgese has decreed that migrants arriving in the country must be inoculated. Italys virus czar, Gen. Francesco Figliuolo, said in a statement that starting Thursday two teams began work on Lampedusa alongside local health authorities and Italian Red Cross to administer the vaccines.

Lampedusa, a tiny island closer to Africa than the Italian mainland, is one of the main destinations of African-based migrants who pay Libyan or Tunisian smugglers to cross the Mediterranean in hopes of reaching Europe.

Some 40,000 migrants have arrived in Italy by boat so far this year, twice as many as in 2020 and nine times as many as 2019.

President Joe Biden speaks in the State Dining Room at the White House, Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021, in Washington. Biden is announcing sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an all-out effort to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

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ANKARA, Turkey  Turkeys health minister says the countrys first locally developed COVID-19 vaccine is close to seeking approval for emergency use.

Fahrettin Koca tells reporters that the nation aims to start mass producing Turkovac, which uses an inactivated virus technology, in October.

The vaccine was developed by Erciyes University. Late-stage trials began in June. Turkey also hopes to export Turkovac to other countries.

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LANSING, Mich.  Michigan health and business officials are renewing a plea for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, citing hospital workforce shortages, unnecessary deaths and concerns that end-of-summer travel and the return to school could fuel a surge in cases.

About 59% of Michigan residents 12 and older have been fully vaccinated, and 65% have gotten at least one dose. Those figures trail behind the national rates of 62% and 73%.

Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association, says hospitals are near capacity as coronavirus caseloads rise and high numbers of non-COVID-19 patients seek care they delayed earlier in the pandemic.

Bryna Makowka, who has a teenage son joins anti-vaccine protestors outside the Los Angeles Unified School District administrative offices in Los Angeles Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021. Makowka, said it should be up to parents, not the board, to decide for their children. The Los Angeles board of education is expected to vote Thursday on whether to require all students 12 and older to be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus to participate in on-campus instruction in the nation's second-largest school district. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

Peters says that our staffing is stressed to a level that we have not seen previously, and one of the ways to prevent that is to get the vaccine.

___

HONOLULU  An officer with the Honolulu Police Department says he has been suspended without pay and faces termination for not complying with the citys COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Cpl. Mark Kutsy was on patrol this week when he was pulled off duty and forced to turn in his gun and badge.

Kutsy says hes willing to submit to weekly testing. But Honolulu is in the only county in Hawaii not giving an option to test in lieu of vaccination.

State workers also have a vaccination mandate, but they can undergo weekly tests instead.

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FRANKFORT, Ky.  Gov. Andy Beshear says just 90 adult intensive care beds are available in Kentucky as strained hospitals confront the surging delta variant of the coronavirus.

In this photo provided by the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service, U.S. Army Capt. Corrine Brown, a critical care nurse, administers an anti-viral medication to a COVID-19 positive patient at Kootenai Health regional medical center during response operations in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, on Sept. 6, 2021. Roughly 11,000 kids in Coeur d'Alene were getting ready for their first day of school when Idaho public health officials announced this week that northern hospitals were so crowded with coronavirus patients that they would be allowed to ration health care. Kootenai Health has had to move some patients into a conference room and get help from the military to deal with the flood of coronavirus patients. (Michael H. Lehman/DVIDS U.S. Navy/via AP)

Beshear says that's a pandemic low, and that means if you get COVID and need to be hospitalized, there has never been a greater likelihood that theres not a bed for you or your family members, or your friends.

Beshear adds that 60 of 96 hospitals in the state currently face a critical staffing shortage. The limited number of ICU beds also will put those in non-virus related emergencies in danger of not receiving care, such as car crash victims.

In the governor's words, Our hospital situation has never been more dire in my lifetime than it is right now.

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BRUSSELS  Belgiums vaccination task force says people with a weakened immune system will be offered an extra dose of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines next week.

The task force says the measure is for people over 12 who have reduced immunity due to a condition or a medical treatment. That includes cases of congenital immune disorders, cancer treatments or chronic dialysis.

The task force says their bodies are less responsive to the vaccine and an additional dose is recommended for optimal protection against severe disease progression, hospitalization or even death.

Up to 400,000 people among Belgium's 11.5 million inhabitants will be eligible for an extra shot.

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COLOMBO, Sri Lanka  The Sri Lankan health ministry inoculate young people ages 12 to 18 against COVID-19 soon, saying the move will help reopen the schools, which have been closed for more than six months.

Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella says about 2 million students will be vaccinated and classes for grades 7 to 13 could begin when that is finished.

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The government imposed a lockdown Aug. 20 that runs through Sept. 13. The health ministry says 62% of the population above age 20 is vaccinated.

___

WASHINGTON  Researchers say federal government data significantly understated the ravages of COVID-19 in nursing homes last year.

Official numbers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are missing about 12% of cases among nursing home residents and 14% of deaths. Thats according to new estimates published Thursday in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Network Open, by a Harvard researcher and her team.

It translates to thousands of missing data points, suggesting more than 118,300 nursing home residents died of COVID-19 last year, or about 30% of all coronavirus deaths nationally.

The researchers attributed the data holes to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services not requiring nursing homes to report cases and deaths until May 2020, well into the pandemic. The new estimates rely on numbers from states that required fuller reporting.
GLAZED windows and limits on lighting are options the City of Winnipeg is considering to save birds from flying into buildings.

GLAZED windows and limits on lighting are options the City of Winnipeg is considering to save birds from flying into buildings.

Approximately 25 million birds die in Canada annually by colliding with windows, according to a study used as part of the citys research into the problem.

"Were losing our birds, especially our migratory birds, at a really fast rate," said Kevin Fraser, a University of Manitoba associate professor who studies the species. "Light and windows are huge threats."

Winnipeg is part of the Mississippi flyway, a major migration route for birds.

"A really large number of our migrants... are meeting their end with buildings, so anything we can do to reduce the reflectivity of windows... is ultimately going to help bird populations," Fraser said.

There are also year-round Manitoba birds to protect, he said.

A city public service report recommends Winnipeg adopt the Canadian Standards Associations bird-friendly design standards, which include installing glazed windows or placing visual markers for birds, on panes 16 metres above the ground and higher, or at the height of adjacent mature tree canopies.

"We dont want them to think they can fly into a nice patch of habitat when really its a solid window," Fraser said.

The report suggests a "lights out" policy. If passed, top floors of city high-rises would be dark at nightfall.

"Birds are using different kinds of light," Fraser said. "Theyre using starlight, theyre using polarized light at sunset... Theyre attracted (to office light) and theyre pulled in from the migration."

Most birds migrate at night, when its cooler and theres often less wind and fewer predators, Fraser said.

The proposed policy shouldnt be a safety issue for pedestrians, said Coun. Cindy Gilroy, who chairs the property and development committee. Light used to help Winnipeggers on paths and roadways filters downwards; it will be unaffected.

"If you look up at night, youll see many big, taller buildings are all lit up," Gilroy said. "Its not environmentally friendly, and its not healthy for our... birds and our natural habitats."

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Should the "lights out" initiative happen, city staff will look at birds flight patterns and strategically turn off lights in public buildings, Gilroy said. Winnipeg may encourage private businesses to follow suit during migration seasons.

"I just think that in terms of climate change, and in terms of making sure that we are protecting our wildlife, and as we grow our city, this is really important," she said.

The report recommends the city update its website to provide information for homeowners and businesses about being bird-friendly. It also suggests the city add bird-friendly design to zoning bylaws.

On Feb. 12, the property and development committee asked city staff to create a report on bird-friendly urban design guidelines for a bylaw. Employees looked at legislation across Canada and the United States.

The committee will review the report on Tuesday.

gabrielle.piche@freepress.mb.ca
For the Progressive Conservative government to regain popularity and hang on to power in the 2023 provincial election, it will need a transfusion of new blood and ideas.

For the Progressive Conservative government to regain popularity and hang on to power in the 2023 provincial election, it will need a transfusion of new blood and ideas.

That's the message of well-known leadership hopeful Shelly Glover, who Friday launches her campaign to run Manitoba.

"Shelly Glover offers the best opportunity to rejuvenate the party and capture another successful mandate from Manitobans," her campaign website states.

It shows the former Winnipeg police officer and Conservative MP wearing a health-care aide uniform, holding a mask  a not-so-subtle reminder of her outspoken criticism of the Pallister government's handling of the COVID-19 crisis.

Glover, 54, trained as a health-care aide during the pandemic to volunteer at understaffed personal care homes and has called for Manitoba to establish a seniors advocate to speak up for them.

Brian Pallister announced last month he was retiring as PC leader. On Aug. 31, the party caucus voted for Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen to serve as a caretaker premier until membership elects a new leader Oct. 30.

Glover, whose campaign slogan is "Integrity Honesty Compassion," has also called out the PC government for its departure from legislative norms, including tabling 19 bills without providing the text or any details.

"We will have a government built on consultation, communication, and collaboration," Glover's campaign promised.

"This will be accomplished with input from Manitobans, party members, MLAs, front-line workers and subject matter experts. We have wonderful people with huge hearts and amazing ideas, and those ideas need to be the core of our government."

Tuxedo MLA and former health minister Heather Stefanson and McPhillips MLA Shannon Martin have also said they plan to run for the Tory leadership.

Martin, who tweeted his support Thursday for safe injection sites in Manitoba, said he's truly "progressive" and believes a leadership race is good for the party and all Manitobans.

"It requires a healthy competition where people are are able to to bring forward their their ideas, their vision," said the former probation officer who ran a non-profit agency connecting people who have health challenges with meaningful jobs.

Establishing safe injection sites for those struggling with addiction is a progressive and pragmatic approach to an issue rather than ignoring, hiding or punishing it, Martin said in an interview.

"Addictions issues are in all of our communities, and turning a blind eye to that is not going to solve it," he said.

"You can't simply punish people into the right behaviour," said Martin. "These issues all have underlying causes. In many instances, there is psychological trauma. There is physical addiction. There's a reason."

He's yet to officially announce his candidacy or launch a website, but that's coming, Martin said. In the meantime, he's raising issues on social media.

Stefanson has been campaigning for weeks, and is believed to have the majority of the PC caucus supporting her.

Her motto "Together with Heather" pledges to listen to Manitobans rather than telling them what to do  one of the chief complaints made about Pallister's leadership style. The longtime Tuxedo Tory has said she plans to take a less combative and more collaborative approach to governing, should she win.

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Former PC party finance official Ken Lee is reportedly also seeking the leadership, but his conditional candidacy has not been confirmed.

To run for PC leader, every candidate must be approved by the party leadership election committee, sell at least 1,000 party memberships at $20 a piece by 5 p.m. Sept. 15, and pay a $25,000 entry fee.

The PC Party of Manitoba would not confirm any candidate has yet been declared a conditional candidate.

"While several individuals have publicly declared their intention to seek the leadership, it is party practice to disclose only those candidates who have completed the application process and been approved as a candidate," leadership election committee Keith Stewart said in an email.

"We will have more to share as we approach the close of nominations."

carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca
Indigenous leaders in Manitoba have praised Premier Kelvin Goertzen for striking a collaborative tone even as they lobby him to scrap a handful of contentious bills.

Indigenous leaders in Manitoba have praised Premier Kelvin Goertzen for striking a collaborative tone even as they lobby him to scrap a handful of contentious bills.

"He called me within an hour or so after he was announced (as premier on Sept. 1). I think that's significant, and we're looking towards having conversations and dialogue," said Manitoba Grand Chief Arlen Dumas.

Goertzen replaced Brian Pallister, who resigned as premier after five years of driving much of his government's policies and legislation.

Manitoba Metis Federation President David Chartrand said Goertzen should proceed with an Indigenous land acknowledgement without holding a consultations; the NDP had argued that would only delay implementing one. (Daniel Crump / Winnipeg Free Press files)

The Manitoba Metis Federation, which clashed with Pallister for years over various issues, has also sensed a massive shift in direction in the short time since Goertzen took over.

"They want a new relationship; they definitely want to sit down and create that partnership and nation-to-nation recognition," said president David Chartrand.

On Tuesday, Goertzen said he was open to adding an Indigenous land acknowledgement, in addition to a prayer, at the start of daily sittings of the legislature.

Lagimodiere might redeem himself: Chartrand The head of the Manitoba Metis Federation said Indigenous Reconciliation Minister Alan Lagimodiere might be able to overcome his rocky start. click to read more The head of the Manitoba Metis Federation said Indigenous Reconciliation Minister Alan Lagimodiere might be able to overcome his rocky start. Im waiting to see, said federation President David Chartrand. This olive branch is now being given by the (PC) Party, to sit down with the Metis government. Lagimodiere made national news when he said residential schools were started with good intentions, just moments after he was sworn in. That had followed his predecessors resignation over former premier Brian Pallisters racially charge comments on the motives of colonizers. Lagimodiere later apologized for those remarks. Chartrand said the Metis already felt excluded, with the province partnering more with First Nations on everything from COVID-19 data-sharing to the official Manitoba 150 celebrations. On Tuesday, Chartrand said he spoke with Lagimodiere, after having publicly declined a call on July 15. He thanked me for the call. I told him a lot, and he said 'what do we do from here?'" Chartrand said. He asked Lagimodiere to have departmental staff be more cooperative, from simply addressing correspondence to the correct person to giving advanced notice when funding agreements wont be renewed. It has to be from the deputy minister, all the way down.  Dylan Robertson Close

He announced last week he would scrap five controversial pieces of legislation, including a bill that would ban protesters from railways, which was sparked by national demonstrations in support of hereditary chiefs of the Wet'suwet'en band in B.C. as they fought against a pipeline in early 2020.

Although Goertzen's approach is a welcome change, the Tory government passed legislation in May that the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs opposes. The bills deal with the sale of Crown land, trespassing laws, and ending the First Nations' exemption from smoking regulations.

The AMC had asked the Tories to scrap those bills, and could sue now that they are law.

Manitoba Grand Chief Arlen Dumas said that Goertzen called him within an hour of becoming premier. (Mikaela MacKenzie / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Meanwhile, the PC government's 2020 budget bill gave the province retroactive authority to claw back money from the federal baby bonus for kids in foster care, which it has done for years.

This week, the assembly filed its submission in a court challenge to the budget bill, arguing it breaches the Constitution to have Manitoba retroactively absolve itself of liability, and to bar future court challenges of the clawback.

The assembly argues the Pallister government has treated foster kids "as commodities instead of protecting and caring for their well-being and safety," and that the province is breaching the 2005 child-welfare reforms laid out in the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry.

"There are some very contentious issues that are happening; a lot of it is very wrong-minded and tone deaf, and hopefully the new premier can take a look at these things," Dumas said.

"In good faith I will challenge this new leader to really take a look at the processes his predecessor initiated, and remove them, so we can actually have a proper and meaningful conversation."

CP Indigenous leaders in Manitoba have praised Premier Kelvin Goertzen for striking a collaborative tone. (David Lipnowski / Canadian Press files)

The Metis federation is also planning its own legal challenge to the child-welfare clawback. The federation has issues with the Tory government, including Pallister's decision to scrap a multimillion-dollar payout from Manitoba Hydro to the Metis in early 2018.

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The Metis also want the province to change its messaging on Interlake flood outlets, saying the government mischaracterized environmental concerns as holding up the project.

"Goertzen made it very clear that his government wants to strike a new relationship with the Metis in Manitoba," said Chartrand, who said the premier promised to examine the issues and get back to him.

"Two months is a long time, in politics."

Both Dumas and Chartrand said they want the Manitoba government to work collaboratively with Indigenous leaders instead of dragging disputes through the courts.

Chartrand said Goertzen should proceed with an Indigenous land acknowledgement without holding a consultations; the NDP had argued that would only delay implementing one.

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
A Winnipeg man went to a field near Higgins Avenue on the long weekend to lay tobacco on the spot where his friend had died of an overdose recently.

A Winnipeg man went to a field near Higgins Avenue on the long weekend to lay tobacco on the spot where his friend had died of an overdose recently.

To his surprise, three tents had been set up to provide a safe space for people to use drugs.

"When he found out this was an overdose prevention activity, it really moved him," said Jonny Mexico, co-ordinator for the Manitoba Harm Reduction Network, on Wednesday.

"Its a very temporary measure, and a very temporary solution to a longstanding problem of overdose death in our province and poisoned supply across Canada."

The site was illegal. Mexico hopes their decision to open it sent a strong signal to politicians that Winnipeg needs a safe consumption site.

"Every day that passes, another person has died," Mexico said. "Each of those numbers has a name and each of those individuals has people who loved them dearly and miss them dearly."

At least 260 people went to the site on the long weekend. Volunteers gave out more than 5,000 syringes and distributed more than 130 Naloxone kits, which are used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose, Mexico said.

People were also able to get free food, see a nurse and take other harm-reduction supplies such as condoms.

Mexico said the unfunded site, led by community members, filled a gap during a weekend when many community organizations were closed.

"Ideally, there would be multiple locations for supervised consumption where people can use (drugs) in their neighbourhoods," said Mexico. "Its a direct community response to the fact that there are over 500 overdose deaths per year, and the fact that there is a lot of government inaction around a solid strategy for harm reduction."

City Coun. Sherri Rollins, who volunteered at the pop-up site, has been advocating for safe consumption sites in Winnipeg.

"It was the full gamut of harm reduction," Rollins said.

"Were experiencing a housing crisis and a drug poisoning crisis, and I do think its our job as community leaders to meet community where theyre at. This pop-up met a lot of needs."

A city report on the feasibility of a supervised drug consumption site will be discussed by council next month.

Rollins noted permanent safe consumption sites have popped up in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec.

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"What stands out to me here is an ideologically opposed provincial government that is getting in the way, in many cases, of the delivery of primary health care and housing," she said.

Mexico explained community organizations want multiple sites around the city where safe consumption, drug testing and other services can be accessed.

Many organizations are prepared to host a permanent supervised consumption site in their facility, Mexico said.

"This was the first time this type of action happened in Winnipeg; we provided services, and as a result the world didnt end. We didnt see crime go up in the area, people just came in, did what they were going to do and carried on with their day."

julia-simone.rutgers@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @jsrutgers
A Fisher River Cree Nation man has been arrested after multiple false reports of an armed student forced the lockdown of American schools and drew large-scale police action.

A Fisher River Cree Nation man has been arrested after multiple false reports of an armed student forced the lockdown of American schools and drew large-scale police action.

On Wednesday, RCMP said they were acting to assist the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Homeland Security when Manitoba officers executed a search warrant Aug. 30 at a Fisher River home.

An 18-year-old man was arrested and police seized a number of electronic items, RCMP said.

Police described the incidents  two in Tennessee and two in North Carolina  as "swatting," a name given to false reports that describe a life-threatening situation meant to provoke an armed police response.

RCMP media relations manager Sgt. Paul Manaigre would not elaborate on any motive behind the hoax phone calls.

In past swatting incidents in North America, some suspects made deceiving calls after online disputes, typically over video games.

The 18-year-old has been released and will appear in court Dec. 7 at Peguis First Nation.

Just before 8 a.m., Aug. 10, a person who claimed to be a student at Volunteer High School in Church Hill, Tenn., told 911 dispatchers he was in the school's main bathroom with a gun and was headed to another area of the building, the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office said in a Facebook post.

Sheriffs deputies and the Church Hill Police Department responded and searched for a potential active shooter, while agencies from surrounding counties went on alert and helped with the evacuation of the school.

Law enforcement later declared the threatening phone calls to be a hoax.

Parents of students from Volunteer High School in Church Hill, Tenn. escort their children away from the Armed Forces Reserve Center building in Mount Carmel, Tenn. after reports of an active at the school on Aug. 10. (Larry N. Souders / The Associated Press files)

It was the second day of classes.

"I thought, Oh my gosh, people are dead. I need to get there,'" a mother of two students told local newspaper Rogersonville Review.

In the neighbouring state of North Carolina, Watauga High School was the site of similar events Aug. 18.

At about 3:20 p.m., Boone Police Department received an anonymous call a student had made threats of causing harm; police cleared the school and deemed students safe.

Soon after, local agencies determined it was a hoax and began working with Tennessee counterparts over the similar false reports.

Manitoba police were first contacted for help Aug. 17, after U.S. law enforcement traced fake calls to the province. RCMP and the Winnipeg Police Service said they later determined the messages came from Fisher River, 190 kilometres north of the capital city.

So-called swatting is not new to Canada.

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In March, a 15-year-old who had previously lived in Saskatchewan was arrested for numerous 2020 incidents across the United States and Canada, the Saskatoon Police Service said. The youth was arrested by the Louisiana Sheriffs Office and faced charges in New Jersey, as well as potential extradition to other American jurisdictions.

On Wednesday, Manaigre said RCMP would have to look into whether there have been other swatting incidents in the province.

WPS Const. Jay Murray said swatting isn't common in Winnipeg, but does occur.

However, it's typically done differently, with a local focus: people place false calls to a nearby address to watch the emergency response or make fake calls to disrupt "someone locally," such as a criminal rival, Murray said in an email.

"The interesting thing about the RCMP investigation is that the incidents occurred in the USA  a significant distance from the suspects location. Weve seen in the past that this sometimes has happened to members of the online gaming community while they stream," he said.

erik.pindera@freepress.mb.ca
The province is expanding COVID-19 vaccine clinics into public spaces to boost the vaccination rate.

The province is expanding COVID-19 vaccine clinics into public spaces to boost the vaccination rate.

Currently, 78 per cent of Manitoba adults are fully vaccinated.

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Two city parks are set to host vaccine clinics this weekend and future pop-up clinics are planned as part of a strategy to make it as easy as possible for people to be inoculated.

On Saturday, vaccines will be offered at Assiniboine Park in the pavilion parking lot from noon to 5 p.m. On Sunday, a vaccine clinic will be open at Kildonan Park on the service road between the pool and Rainbow Stage from noon to 5 p.m. The park clinics were announced Wednesday as part of a partnership between the provincial vaccine task force and the City of Winnipeg. This summer, clinics were held in provincial campgrounds, shopping malls and at The Forks.

"As we continue to move forward in increasing the number of people receiving a COVID-19 vaccination, our vaccine rollout strategy is ever evolving. This strategy is wide-ranging from First Nations and community hosted clinics, to focused immunization teams visiting provincial, national, urban parks and malls," a provincial government spokesperson said in a statement.

Last week, 506 vaccinations were administered over four days at Winnipegs Outlet Mall, The Forks and Polo Park mall.

The province says such pop-up clinics have "proven successful."

"The goal of these clinics is to further eliminate any barriers which may have otherwise prevented people from receiving either their first or second vaccine dose," the spokesperson stated.
A primary rule thats taught in kindergarten: dont throw stones. Apparently, some people didnt get the message.

Justin Trudeau, security officers and journalists were pelted with a handful of gravel on Monday as the Liberal Party leader campaigned in London, Ont. Its an alarming escalation by the angry anti-vaccine protesters who have greeted Mr. Trudeau with raised middle fingers and chanted obscenities at his recent campaign stops.

Mr. Trudeau sought to downplay the incident: "There was little bits of gravel. Its no big deal."

With respect, it is a big deal. A robust democracy embraces many methods of protest, but when Canadas elected leader is assaulted with pitched projectiles, thats over the line.

The bounds of civility are not always clear in the emotional heat of protests. What separates permissible protests from improper aggression such as Mondays stone-throwing debacle?

To begin with, physical assault is always unacceptable, even if the stones tossed are small. Protests must stop short of potentially injuring other people.

Accordingly, protests last week that hindered functions at several hospitals across Canada, including Winnipegs Health Sciences Centre, were deplorable because people could have been harmed. Ambulances were impeded while delivering patients to the emergency department and other individuals opted to skip appointments rather than risking the wrath of protesters, meaning patients medical conditions could have worsened.

Attempts to gauge the legitimacy of protest tactics get less clear, and more subjective, when the damage is to property and not to people.

Take, for example, the sculpture in front of the Pantages Playhouse Theatre on Main Street, which commemorates protesters overturning a streetcar in 1919. The iconic act was vandalism by any legal definition, but it is widely celebrated because the streetcar was upended during the Winnipeg General Strike, and the vandalism became a symbol of workers united in the struggle for a better life.

In the same grey area involving destruction of property during protests, the Manitoba Legislature currently has two empty plinths where statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth stood until Canada Day, when they were toppled during a protest honouring victims of residential schools established by colonial decree. Its illegal to destroy public statues, but police have not laid criminal charges.

Obviously, protests that break laws in the interests of social justice are sometimes overlooked by authorities, who presumably have an ear to the ground of widespread public sentiment. Central to the issue, however, is who decides  the authorities, not the protesters  whether lawlessness has a moral basis that makes it worthy of leeway.

JOHN WOODS / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS PPC Leader Maxime Bernier speaks in Winnipeg on Sept. 6.

Just ask Maxime Bernier. The leader of the Peoples Party of Canada might believe his rejection of public-health orders has a moral basis and is a social-justice issue, but its not his decision to make. Manitoba RCMP charged him in June under the Public Health Act for an illegal assembly and for failing to self-isolate once he got to Manitoba.

His brief time-out in Winnipeg apparently had little impact. He returned to Manitoba this week, and continued to openly violate public-health orders.

As Mr. Bernier is considered a prominent leader among Canadas anti-vaxxers, some people might regard it as fair turnaround that he was struck by a (presumably) pro-vaxxer-tossed egg at an event last week. As was the gravel thrown at Mr. Trudeau, however, such an expression of disagreement must be condemned in no uncertain terms.

Remember the childhood lesson: throwing stones (or eggs, or anything else) is unacceptable, regardless of the target.
OTTAWA - The time has come for Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau to start taking the protests dogging his campaign a little more seriously, a security expert and a member of an anti-hate group say.

A man, top right, throws gravel at Liberal leader Justin Trudeau, left, as the RCMP security detail provide protection, while protesters shout at a local microbrewery during the Canadian federal election campaign in London Ont., on Monday, September 6, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

OTTAWA - The time has come for Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau to start taking the protests dogging his campaign a little more seriously, a security expert and a member of an anti-hate group say.

While they don't think the threat has reached the level where he needs an American-style secret service bubble to protect him, they say the rising displays of anger dictate that he takes more precautions.

Trudeau's campaign has been repeatedly stalked by vocal groups of protesters  he has called them "anti-vaxxermobs"  that have shouted racist and misogynist slurs at his security detail while hurling obscenities and, in some cases, death threats at the Liberal leader.

The seriousness of the disruptions escalated noticeably on Monday when dozens of protesters, some carrying signs criticizing COVID-19 vaccines and lockdowns, surrounded Trudeau's campaign bus in London, Ont., and threw a handful of gravel at him.

The RCMP declined to comment on what extra precautions they might be talking, beyond saying they constantly review their safety measures.

But a retired RCMP officer who served in the protection details of former prime ministers says Trudeau needs to reconsider the political gain of doing such events, because the next time he could face something more dangerous than gravel.

"Next time, maybe it'll be something harder, or pointier or hotter, and these things have a tendency to ramp up, particularly when you're dealing with people now who are under this long-term stress of having been locked up due to COVID," says Chris Mathers, the founder of an international security consultancy.

"We all have friends that we thought were normal, and we see now that they're perhaps not so much. And these are the kinds of people that are coming out."

Mathers' previous protection assignments included serving on the security detail of Brian Mulroney in the 1980s when the then-prime minister sparked angry protests by showing friendship to American president Ronald Reagan. Mathers was in the Quebec City hotel when the two leaders sang "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling" as angry protesters slammed metal barricades outside.

Mathers dismisses some pundits who have opined that Canada needs to adopt a harder security line akin to the U.S. Secret Service. He says comparing the protection requirements of an American president to a Canadian prime minister is "apples to oranges."

Mathers says he knows his ex-colleagues are taking the threats extremely seriously today and are dealing with a client  Trudeau  who is also heeding their advice quite closely.

"My friends who protect the PM did say one thing about him  he always stays in the box, which is in the square of bodyguards, unlike some of the other prime ministers," Mathers says.

Evan Balgord, the executive director of the Canadian Anti-Hate Network, says it is possible that some of those following Trudeau could be fantasizing about using violence against their perceived enemies.

In their view, those would include Trudeau and public health officials who they blame for the COVID-19 lockdowns,he adds.

Balgord says the groups that have been stalking Trudeau's campaign across the country are organized and believe in conspiracy theories around COVID-19 pandemic.

"I am actually a little bit surprised that more precautions haven't been taken by the prime minister's entourage in particular, to try to keep him safe," Balgord said.

"An unstable person in that environment might take it upon themselves to act out on everybody's shared fantasy of killing the prime minister."

Balgord describes the groups that have been protesting against Trudeau as a "violent insurrectionist movement" that doesn't believe in democracy or in science.

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Although the anti-lockdowns movement is "loose" and includes many who are not members of hate groups, it still contains many extreme far-right groups, he says.

He says these groups are organizing their protests in chats groups that his organization monitors on Facebook and Telegram, which allows far-right activists to try to further radicalize those who believe in COVID-19 conspiracy theories. He says they are spreading racist and anti-LGBTQ messages.

Mathers says Trudeau's security detail is also trying to track hostile movements in cyberspace, but the challenges there are growing as more people turn to encrypted apps to cover their tracks.

But he also says the protesters are not as sophisticated as some fear, noting they are getting their information from social media.

"Some people fall victim to their more basic desires, and urges," he said.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 8, 2021.
Minnesota Senate Republicans have elected Sen. Jeremy Miller (R- Winona) to the Leader position after Sen. Paul Gazelka announced he was stepping down last week.

Its an honor and a privilege to be elected by my peers as Leader, Miller said. But just as when I became Senate President, as I enter this new role my constituents in southeast Minnesota will remain my top priority, and I look forward to bringing our values to the forefront: values like lowering taxes, historic funding for the education of our students, stabilizing healthcare markets, fixing MNLARS, prioritizing small businesses, and supporting our law enforcement.

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Im incredibly proud of the way our majority has improved the lives of every Minnesotan over the last five years. As we head into a bonding year, we will invest in the top priorities for the state and create a fair and transparent redistricting process for the next election.

Assistant Senate Majority Leader John Jasinski (R-Faribault) issued the following statement regarding Millers election:
St. Thomas University student Gisela Castro Medina, 19, the former chairwoman of the school's Republican Party chapter, also faces criminal charges for allegedly recruiting girls for Lazzaro.

According to the lawsuit, Medina targeted young women or girls on social media and introduced them to Lazzaro to be used for sex in exchange for money and gifts. The lawsuit says the girl was 14 when she befriended Medina in 2018. In May of 2020, when the girl was 16, Medina recruited her to meet Lazzaro and began grooming her, explaining that he was a powerful, prominent and wealthy businessman and political figure.

From May to July 2020, Lazzaro arranged for cars to bring the girl to his home on several occasions, and he committed multiple commercial sex acts against her, the lawsuit says.

After months of repeated sex trafficking of the girl, Lazzaro attempted to coerce her into silence, the lawsuit says. According to the lawsuit, after the girl posted something about Lazzaro and Medina on social media, Lazzaro's attorneys reached out to the girl's father in July 2020 and offered the family hush money and a non-disclosure agreement. The attorney allegedly suggested that the girl was aggressively seeking to defame the Lazzaro and Medina, the lawsuit says.
Council President Lisa Bender noted that the proposal arose from a citizens' petition campaign and told her colleagues that it was their ministerial duty to do everything we can to approve language for the ballot this November.

Frey told reporters the proposal's supporters tried to hide the ball from the voters with the earlier, vague language. While the mayor is allowing the new language to go on the ballot, he said he still opposes the substance of the proposal.

It eliminates the police department and creates a department of public safety," Frey said. "It gets rid of the position of the chief of police. It gets rid of the requirement to fund a minimum number of police officers. And it changes the reporting structure so that the head of that department would report to 14 different people  13 council members and the mayor.

The injunction to keep the language off the ballot was sought by former City Council Member Don Samuels, his wife, Sondra, and businessman Bruce Dachis. Their attorney, Joseph Anthony, called Anderson's ruling a courageous and correct decision. Anthony said he was planning to consult with his clients about whether the revision was acceptable to them.

The proposal has caused concerns among some centrist Democratic leaders that it could harm the party not just locally but nationwide, as Republicans use fears over public safety to try to woo back suburban swing voters. U.S. Rep. Angie Craig, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar and Gov Tim Walz spoke out against the measure last month, while two prominent progressives, U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar and state Attorney General Keith Ellison, endorsed it last week.

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

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"He is evil in the flesh," Judd said. "Just because you have mental health issues, does not mean you are not criminally liable."

Judd identified Justice Gleason, 40, as one of the victims. Citing a state privacy law, Judd only identified the other victims as a 33-year-old woman, her infant son and the boy's 62-year-old grandmother. Facebook posts and public records show Gleason was in a relationship with Theresa Lanham and they had a baby boy, Jody, in May. Lanham's mother, Catherine Delgado, owned the property and lived there. Gleason also had an 11-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.

According to Judd and court records, on Saturday evening, about nine hours before the attack, Riley stopped his truck and confronted Gleason as he mowed his lawn. Riley, who lives 30 miles away in Tampa (50 kilometers), told Gleason that God had sent him to prevent a suicide by someone named Amber.

Gleason and one of the other victims told Riley no one by that name lived there and asked him to leave. They called 911, but when authorities arrived, Riley was gone. A deputy searched the area, but didn't find Riley. Judd said given the circumstances, there wasn't much more that could be done.
The party's anti-monopoly enforcement and crackdown on how companies handle information about customers are similar to Western regulation. But the abrupt, heavy-handed way changes have been imposed is prompting warnings that Beijing is threatening innovation and economic growth, which already is declining. Jittery foreign investors have knocked more than $300 billion off Tencent's stock market value and billions more off other companies.

I expect that over the next year or two we are likely to see a very rocky relationship develop between the political elite and the business elite, Michael Pettis, a finance professor at Peking University's Guanghua School of Business, said in a report.

Chinese officials say the public, consumers and entrepreneurs will benefit from higher incomes and more regulatory oversight of corporate giants. Parents welcome curbs announced last month that limit children under 18 to three hours of online games a week and only on weekends and Friday night.

I feel this is a good rule, said Li Zhanguo, the father of an 8-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl in the central city of Zhengzhou. Games still have some addictive mechanisms. We cant count on childrens self-control.

The crackdowns reflect party efforts to control a rapidly evolving society of 1.4 billion people.
Irfan Popalzai, 12, among those boarding the flight with his mother and five brothers and sisters, said his family lives in Maryland.

"I am an Afghan, but you know I am from America and I am so excited (to leave)," he said.

As the group prepared to board earlier, Qatari officials gathered on the tarmac of Kabul airport to announce the airport was ready for the resumption of international commercial flights after days of repairs. Extensive damage to the travel hub in the frenzied final days of the U.S. airlift that evacuated over 100,000 people from the country had raised questions over how soon the transport hub could resume for regular commercial flights. Technical experts from Qatar and Turkey have been racing to restore operations.

"I can clearly say that this is a historic day in the history of Afghanistan as Kabul airport is now operational," said Qatari special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani.

"Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes," al-Qahtani added, noting that another commercial flight would take off on Friday. "Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan."
It is quite possible that reducing jobless benefits while the economy remains weak could ultimately slow down the recovery, at least in some parts of the country. Thats because people who lose benefits but are still unable to find or accept available jobs now have less spending power. The local businesses they rely on then have less money coming in. This, besides the obvious humanitarian argument, is one reason to extend some version of enhanced benefits in places where covid is still wreaking havoc on the job market, and where persistent child-care and school closures are making it difficult for parents to maintain reliable employment.

The best and most obvious remedy? Clamp down on covid transmissions. As has been the case since early 2020, the virus is in control of the economy; to get the economy back on firmer footing, we must control the virus.

This is easier said than done, of course, particularly in some Republican strongholds. In Florida and Texas, for instance, the governors have forbidden vaccination mandates, making it harder for consumers and workers to safely resume their normal economic lives. By barring schools from requiring students to wear masks, politicians have virtually ensured that more students will go into forced quarantine and schools will shut down again, jeopardizing both childrens academic progress and their parents work arrangements.
Thousands of refugees from Afghanistan have arrived at Fort McCoy. The base currently has capacity for about 13,000 people and they expect to continue receiving new visitors for a while.

I, along with several of my colleagues in the Wisconsin legislature who represent districts near Fort McCoy, visited with Maj. Gen. Darrell Guthrie, senior commander at Fort McCoy and commanding general of the Army Reserves 88th Readiness Division on Aug. 25. He is overseeing all of the operations at Fort McCoy. Our goal was to understand the mission, ask questions and share the concerns of our constituents. Since my visit, I have been monitoring the mission at Fort McCoy and asking additional questions.

During my visit, we received a thorough briefing from Guthrie, the State Department, the Department of Homeland Security and members of Guthries team. We took a driving tour of Fort McCoy to observe the operations and I saw many families playing in the yards around the barracks and on the playgrounds. I saw busy laundromats, people hanging laundry to dry and walking around the base talking on cell phones and with each other. I saw people rebuilding their lives. I saw relief.
COLUMBUS  The Columbus City Council unanimously approved Tuesday an emergency mask order for city buildings that will go into effect Thursday.

The ordinance also included language requiring employees to get vaccinated or show theyve been tested for COVID-19

Columbus previously had a mask ordinance in place for city buildings, however it was removed in May after the CDC loosened mask recommendations in building for vaccinated people.

We were happy to observe more normal activities and reinstate activities in Columbus like the Fourth of July and the farmers market, Columbus Mayor Mary Arnold said. Unfortunately, now there are serious concern not only about the rise of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin and Columbia County but also the emergence of the more serious Delta variant.

Cases, deaths and hospitalizations for COVID continue to rise, Arnold said.

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I dont want a single person in Columbus to get sick or die from COVID, Arnold said.

The order was done for health and safety of the employees and those they come in contact, Columbus City Council President Ian Gray said.
CrashWednesday at 3:13 p.m. police responded to Hillyer Street at West Brown Street for a report of a two-vehicle crash. No injuries were reported and a 52-year-old Waupun man was cited for failure to yield right of way.

Disturbance  Thursday at 6:24 p.m. police responded to a residence in the 400 block of East Franklin Street for a report of a physical disturbance. The suspect, a 37-year-old Waupun woman, had left the scene prior to law enforcement arriving. She was taken into custody on a probation and parole warrant on Friday at the same residence. The woman was transported to the Dodge County Jail. Charges of disorderly conduct and strangulation/ suffocation were referred to the Fond du Lac County DAs Office against the woman.

Traffic Stop  Friday at 1:10 p.m. police conducted a traffic stop in the first hundred block of Fox Lake Road. A 43-year-old Waupun man was cited for operating after revocation  second offense.
Horicon Bank celebrated its 125th anniversary Tuesday with a community picnic at Discher Park, attended by well over 1,000 people.

Sunny skies and warm temperatures made for a pleasant backdrop as young and old alike played carnival games, rode a carousel, took pictures in a photo booth, learned about monarch butterflies and viewed a historical movie about the bank.

Amy Banaszak, advertising specialist at Horicon Bank, said she was thrilled by the large turnout to mark the special occasion.

We werent sure how many to expect and planned for about 700 people. Its awesome that so many people are here and having a great time, she said.

Lines stretched throughout the park for the food and drink from local vendors. Chef Chanse put on a buffet that included pulled pork, chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, watermelon, corn on the cob and chips. Chippys Popcorn Creations, the Ice Cream Station and Guths Candy provided lots of treats for the crowd. Rock River Tap and Hardware Hank were on hand to help serve refreshments.

Horicon Bank President Fred F. Schwertfeger thanked everyone for coming and explained that bank employees follows a C.A.R.E. mission.

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California Gov. Gavin Newsom will get a boost in the final days of a campaign that is trying to kick him out of office from the nation's most prominent Democrat: President Joe Biden.

Biden will join the first-term Democratic governor in the Southern California city of Long Beach on Monday, the day before voting ends. He's the last of a string of prominent Democrats who have come to the deep-blue state to assist Newsom as he faces a recall election.

Vice President Kamala Harris, a California native, campaigned alongside him Wednesday, and former President Barack Obama appeared in a campaign ad urging Californians to vote no on the recall.

Biden's visit, his first to California since taking office in January, underscores the importance of his party maintaining the governorship in the nation's most populous state, which has the fifth-largest economy in the world. California has been the breeding ground for progressive policies on climate change, immigration and more. Beyond Harris, a handful of Biden's Cabinet members have roots in the state.
Nearly two-thirds of the more than 200 companies responding to a mid-July survey in the tech-centric Bay Area said they are expecting their workers to come into the office two or three days each week. Before the pandemic, 70% of these employers required their workers to be in the office, according to the Bay Area Council, a business policy group that commissioned the poll.

Even Zoom, the Silicon Valley videoconferencing service that saw its revenue and stock price soar during the pandemic, says most of its employees still prefer to come into the office part of the time. "There isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to returning to the office," Kelly Steckelberg, Zoom's chief financial officer, recently wrote in a blog post.

But the biggest tech companies, which have profited even more than Zoom as the pandemic that made their products indispensable for many workers, aren't giving employees much choice in the matter. Apple, Google, Amazon, and Microsoft have made it clear that they want most of their workers together at least a few days each week to maintain their culture and pace of innovation.

That well-worn creed sounds like backward thinking to Ed Zitron, who runs a public relations firm representing technology companies  and which has been fully remote since it launched in 2012.
DETROIT (AP)  Ten sexual assault victims sued the University of Michigan on Thursday over a policy that limits the number of people who can offer public comment at meetings of the school's governing board.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of nine men and a woman who said they were molested by Dr. Robert Anderson during his decades as a campus physician. They said they were denied an opportunity to address the Board of Regents in July, in violation of Michigan's open meetings law.

The university caps the number of speakers and limits the number of people who can talk about a specific topic at five.

Regents have been meeting by video conference during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2017, The number of speakers was increased to as many as 17, under certain conditions, from 10.

Five people who said they were assaulted by Anderson spoke in July, spokesman Rick Fitzgerald said.

Regents have the authority to establish rules by which members of the public may address a meeting of the board, and the process in place at U-M is consistent with those at other Michigan public universities, Fitzgerald said.
Citing those victories, along with her experience as a cancer survivor, Kleefisch described herself as a fighter while drawing comparisons with former President Donald Trump, who won Wisconsin in 2016.

There were people who said it could not be done, but instead Donald Trump became one of the most successful policy presidents of our time, Kleefisch said.

Kleefisch also chaired the Wisconsin Coalition Against Homelessness, which in late 2017 proposed a series of bills that would provide $7.5 million in new spending over two years to combat homelessness in the state. Despite receiving strong support in the state Assembly, only one of the eight bills  to provide $1 million in added funding to support emergency homeless shelters over two years  has come to fruition.

Last Friday, Kleefisch announced she would be departing her role as president of the 1848 Project. Democrats have criticized the organization as a way for Kleefisch to hide donors, abuse the tax code, and avoid the scrutiny that comes from being an announced candidate.
When coronavirus patients flooded hospitals in November and December, nurse Jackie Rehberg worked the COVID-19 unit at SSM Health St. Marys Hospital in Madison even as she was concerned about her own health because she was pregnant.

As she went on maternity leave in May, shortly after vaccines became widely available, cases and hospitalizations plummeted. By the time she returned last month, a surge fueled by the delta variant was underway. Her 12-hour shifts, the protective clothing she must wear and the uncertain fate of her patients remain the same, but this wave feels different.

Before, there was a lot more fear, Rehberg said. This time its more frustrating. At times, it can feel really infuriating because there is a vaccine out there that can help prevent some of the severe illness that were seeing.

Wisconsin topped 1,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations this week for the first time since early January, up from 74 patients with coronavirus infections in hospitals in early July. Amid staffing shortages and depleted patience, health care workers are exerting themselves with familiar routines, this time in disbelief.

Theres a real sense of anger at this COVID surge, said Dr. Doug Hobson, a palliative care specialist at St. Marys. The idea that there are members of our community who will not do the bare minimum to protect themselves  but also to protect their friends, loved ones and neighbors  is so hard to understand.

Statewide, as of Wednesday, 1,039 patients were in hospitals with COVID-19, nearly a third of them in intensive care, according to the Wisconsin Hospital Association. More than 91% of the states ICU beds were in use, the state Department of Health Services said.

Dane County had 88 COVID-19 hospitalizations, including 28 in intensive care and many transfers from other counties. Thats the highest level since late January and about five times the tally from two months ago, though well below the countys peak of 179 hospitalizations in mid-November.

About 70,000 doses of vaccine were given in the state each of the past two weeks, the most since mid-June. Still, only 52% of residents are fully vaccinated, well below the herd immunity level of 80% or so that health officials say can prevent outbreaks. The figure in Dane County is 69.7%, the highest rate in the state.

Staff burnout

On Tuesday, when a Wisconsin State Journal reporter and photographer visited St. Marys COVID-19 unit, nurse Alex Finch and respiratory therapist Kristie Reilly were in the ICU, which had eight coronavirus patients, all of them on ventilators to help them breathe. The hospital had a total of 20 COVID-19 patients, 15 of them not fully vaccinated. The five who were fully vaccinated are age 65 or older.

Finch typically works 12-hour shifts three days a week, but lately shes been doing that four or five days a week or logging 16 hours at a time. Even on days off, as she walks her dog or reads a book, she cant stop thinking about her unit, which she said is perpetually short staffed.

The whole time, in my head, I think, I should be at work, I should be helping, she said. A day of rest isnt really a day of healing. You feel so guilty.

The capricious nature of COVID-19 takes an emotional toll, as patients can decline rapidly with little warning.

Youll see somebody get better and better, and then youll be off for a day or two and come back and learn, Oh, they died, Finch said. Theres someone else in that room and were starting the fight all over again.

Among co-workers, mental health challenges are mounting. Many of them are seeking grief counseling, she said. Many have started on anti-depressants. A few have been having panic attacks, at work.

Reilly also does 12-hour shifts, moving from the COVID ICU to the regular COVID floor or wherever a respiratory therapist is needed. Each time, she has to put on and take off gloves, a gown and a face shield. She and the others also wear two face masks, including an N95, and caps on their heads.

On Tuesday, for lunch, Reilly ate half of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich before heading to another room. Theres days I dont drink anything, she said. We dont get much of a break because the patients are so sick.

The night before, she was tending to a COVID-19 patient when her pager went off, calling her to the emergency room to help put in a breathing tube. Afterward, she returned to the COVID floor.

Were exhausted, mentally and physically, said Reilly, who worries about exposing her son to the coronavirus. Hes 11, several months shy of turning 12 and becoming eligible for the vaccine. We cant go through this again.

Many of her unvaccinated patients tell her they wish they had been immunized. She recalls a Zoom meeting in which a dying, unvaccinated man begged his family to get the shots. You just hope he got through to some of them, she said.

Quote Were exhausted, mentally and physically. We cant go through this again.  Kristie Reilly, St. Mary's respiratory therapist

Death and denial

At other Madison hospitals, staff are similarly perplexed by the surge and preparing for the worst, again.

UW Hospital recently reconverted a dozen rooms to negative air flow, for potential COVID-19 patients, after switching the rooms back to regular care in the spring, said Dr. Jeff Pothof, chief quality officer for UW Health. He said administrators are considering when they might have to postpone elective procedures, as local hospitals did twice in 2020.

UnityPoint Health-Meriter  which had 27 COVID-19 patients Wednesday, 10 of them in the ICU  is also gearing up for more of a crunch. This summer when volume was low, one doctor was in charge of seeing COVID-19 patients each shift, said Dr. Kristin ODell, medical director for the inpatient doctors known as hospitalists. Now its two, and a third may soon be needed again, she said.

Im heartbroken that this is ongoing at the level it is, ODell said. Were tired.

At St. Marys, Hobson helps struggling COVID-19 patients stay comfortable and families decide whether to continue life support. Denial about the seriousness of the pandemic among some people is hard to take, he said.

After one of his patients died from COVID-19 complications, he got an angry call from a family member, he said. The person asked Hobson to remove COVID-19 from the death certificate. He refused, saying that lying on the document would be against his ethics.

Even now, a year and a half later, theres still so much misinformation that we have not been able to breach, and thats sad, he said.

With 8-year-old twins at home, Hobson carries personal and professional stress from the pandemic as it picks up again. We dont have time to cry and debrief and support each other because we have to rush to the next patient thats dying, he said.

On Rehbergs COVID-19 wing, a step down from the ICU, three patients died within 24 hours last weekend, two of them while she was on duty.

As a charge nurse who manages the floor, shes acutely aware of the nurse staffing shortage affecting St. Marys and most hospitals around the state and country, especially units like hers. Many of her colleagues have fled to jobs with few or no COVID-19 patients, such as surgery departments, outpatient clinics or infusion centers.

That means her 32-bed unit sometimes has seven nurses working instead of eight, forcing some nurses to care for five patients instead of four. They cant hire people fast enough, she said. As soon as you get someone in and trained, someone else is leaving.

Whether the current COVID-19 surge keeps escalating or wanes, St. Marys will do what it can to keep up, Rehberg said. But that wont be without consequences.

We can do this as long as we need to, but I think we are going to lose more nurses in the process, she said.
Quality of Life in Gauteng declines amidst pandemic  study

The Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO) has released the results of the latest iteration of the Quality of Life Survey 6 2020/21 (#QoL2021).

The GCRO is a research institute that helps build the knowledge base to make the Gauteng City-Region competitive, spatially integrated, environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. It is a partnership between Gauteng Provincial Government, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg, and organised local government in Gauteng (SALGA-Gauteng).

GCRO has conducted Quality of Life (QoL) Surveys every two years since 2009. We define quality of life broadly and look below the surface of how Gauteng residents live, to understand their experiences, perceptions and challenges. We consider living conditions, socio-economic circumstances, self-reported health and well-being, psychosocial attitudes and beliefs, and perceptions of government, service delivery and local challenges. The findings inform Gauteng City-Region strategic planning and policy. The data is made freely available, and is used by government, academics and civil society.

The GCRO QoL 2020/21 results were presented at an online launch hosted by Wits University and attended by Gauteng Premier David Makhura on Thursday, 9 September 2021.

Mr Rashid Seedat, Executive Director of GCRO, says: There is no doubt that 2020 and 2021 will go down in the history of the world as an extraordinary period. The results of the survey reflect the mood of a City-Region confronted by a new, uncertain and challenging social and economic reality brought about by the pandemic.

The final QoL 2020/21 dataset records the lived experiences of 13 616 of Gautengs residents. Participants were randomly sampled in each ward of the province. Data was collected by a team of dedicated fieldworkers from October 2020 to May 2021. Starting just five months after SAs first hard lockdown in March 2020, data collection spanned the second peak of COVID-19 infections in early 2021 and varying levels of lockdown.

The QoL 2020/21 Survey balanced questions used in previous survey iterations with new content. New content included the impact of COVID-19, social mobility, and experiences of violence. The project explored the quality of life for Gauteng residents across 12 major themes:

The impact of COVID-19 (NEW) Transport Poverty, inequality and social mobility (NEW) Hunger and food security Experiences of violence and safety (NEW) Health Community and social attitudes Migration and moving home Basic service access and satisfaction Environment and extreme events Governance Quality of Life and well-being

The QoL 2020/21 findings show an overall Quality of Life Index score of 61 out of 100. This represents a substantial decline from 64 out of 100 in the previous survey, conducted in 2017/2018.

Some other key findings from the detailed presentations made at the online launch include:

Economic impact : The economic impacts of the pandemic are extreme, with many respondents reporting reduction in salaries and working hours, as well as job losses.

Grants and social support have provided some crucial protection to the most vulnerable.

However, in general, the most advantaged have experienced the least economic fallout, while Black African respondents and those with lower levels of education have been hit hardest.

Social fabric : The data show evidence for substantial, and growing, psycho-social distress. Levels of crime are high, and issues of safety and security are of great concern to residents. Residents of the province are exposed to high levels of violence in their lives. Over half of adults report experiencing physical or sexual abuse before the age of 18. One in five men have experienced physical violence over the past year, and five percent of women have experienced intimate partner violence. Self-reported health has worsened, and a higher proportion of respondents are at high risk of depression, showing some decline in mental health.

However, there is also evidence for strengthening social fabric, particularly at local levels, and even growing tolerance. Nonetheless, positive shifts are not evenly distributed across the population.

Service delivery : There is relative stability in the delivery of many basic services, and relatively high satisfaction with government response to COVID-19.

But many residents feel let down, even abandoned, by government. Government satisfaction has been deeply, negatively affected.

Quality of life : The QoL 2020/21 data highlights an overall decrease in well-being since 2017/18. This decrease is seen across almost all of the seven dimensions of the Quality of Life Index, with the most substantial reductions in the dimensions of governance and socio-economic status.

While Quality of Life Index scores have fallen for all population groups, Black Africans are the only population group whose scores have fallen below 2013/14 levels.

While we cannot demonstrate causality, our longitudinal data enable us to assess where shifts in responses have coincided with the arrival of the pandemic, and where they are a continuation of trends pre-dating the pandemic, says Seedat.

Along with the third peak in COVID-19 infections, the violence, looting and arson that engulfed Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal in early July 2021 took place following the completion of data collection. The impact of these events is not reflected in survey results.

However, we are conscious that they will have further impacted the experiences, perceptions and beliefs of Gauteng residents, says Seedat.

The launch presentation and report signals GCROs commitment to ensuring that the results of the survey are accessible and widely shared, and can contribute to the recovery of the Gauteng province from one of the most painful periods in recent history.

About the Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO)

The GCRO is a research institute that helps to build the knowledge base that government, business, labour, civil society and residents all need to make the Gauteng City-Region competitive, spatially integrated, environmentally sustainable and socially inclusive. The GCRO collects data and benchmarks the city-region; provides policy analysis and support; undertakes applied research; publishes critically reflective academic work; and participates in international conferences and exhibitions. GCRO is a partnership between the Gauteng Provincial Government, the University of Johannesburg, the University of the Witwatersrand (Johannesburg), and organized local government in Gauteng (SALGA-Gauteng).

Click the following link to access the full media pack online:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12yHVKuYsN3ICjt4SnJyZag2nuqbwkPEf?usp=sharing
NEW YORK (AP) - Judge Judy Sheindlin will return to television on on November 1 with Judy Justice, a new show where she will arbitrate cases on the little-known IMDb TV, a free streaming service offered by Amazon.

It will put the tart-talking judge in competition with herself, since CBS Media Ventures is still selling syndication rights to reruns of the old Judge Judy show.

That court show's success made Sheindlin widely considered the highest paid star in television but her ending with CBS after 25 years was rocky.

Based on a picture, she'll have a new red robe on Judy Justice. Her law clerk granddaughter, Sarah Rose, will be an analyst on the new show.
UTICA, N.Y.  Employees at Mohawk Valley Health System have until Sept. 27 to get the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a state mandate requiring health care workers to be vaccinated in New York.

MVHS President and CEO Darlene Stromstad says about 20% of the networks workforce is still unvaccinated. With about 4,000 workers total, that means roughly 800 have decided not to get the shots.

Stromstad said MVHS is now assessing how to handle the potential loss of those workers if they dont comply.

"So, we right now are going department by department and really trying to identify what we think we will lose because of people quitting or being terminated because they won't get the vaccine," she said. It's really...it's a great concern. We are looking at where we will either curtail or close services. Its pretty profound, yes."

Stromstad said the other 80% of workers are either vaccinated or scheduled to get vaccinated, and MVHS is really proud of those results.

MVHS, like other hospitals, was facing a staffing shortage even before the pandemic.

According to Stromstad, MVHS is working with other hospitals and organizations to create a strategy to meet patient needs in the case they lose a significant amount of workers.

The hospital system sent letters to workers earlier this week reminding them of the deadline to get vaccinated, saying proof of vaccination or a valid medical exemption is required "as a condition of continued employment."
UTICA, N.Y.- Utica College officially opened the Francis A. Wilcox Intercultural and Student Organization Center Wednesday.

Members of the campus community and local citizens attended a formal ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony.

The Wilcox Center will also have areas for meetings, studying, relaxing and meditation.

"Students were really asking for more meeting space. It was harder and harder for student organizations to find kind of a hub of their own," said Utica College President Laura Casamento.

Also, Casamento announced the creation of the Francis A. Wilcox Fellowship.

This scholarship fund will provide $5,000 to 20 students annually, which makes it the largest endowed scholarship in the college's history.

UC's Women's Resource Center and some members of the college's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Division will be housed in the building.
Two Royal Navy patrol ships left the United Kingdom on Tuesday for a five-year deployment that will see them act as "the eyes and ears" of Britain from the west coast of Africa, to the west coast of the United States, according to a British Defense Ministry statement.

"Two-thirds of the world is our playground," said Lt. Cmdr. Ben Evans, commanding officer of HMS Spey, a 2,000-ton, 300-foot-long offshore patrol vessel that will team with HMS Tamar for a mission that is not expected to see them return to their Portsmouth home port until 2026.

While patrolling the waters of the Pacific and Indian oceans, the warships will venture as far north as the Bering Sea and as far south as New Zealand and the Australian state of Tasmania.

In the center of that region is China, with whom tensions have been heating up with Britain's top ally, the United States.

"They will act as the eyes and ears of the Navy -- and nation -- in the region, working alongside Britain's allies, carrying out security patrols to deal with drug-running, smuggling, terrorism and other illegal activities, joining in exercises with other navies and armed forces, and flying the flag for Global Britain," the Defense Ministry statement said.

Global Britain is the country's post-Brexit blueprint to exert British influence around the world in a number of areas, including in the case of the two warships, military security.

Britain in March released a sweeping review of its military and foreign policy, in which it recognized a tilt toward the Indo-Pacific in the coming decade and warned of the challenges coming from China.

HMS Spey and HMS Tamar each carry a crew of 46, members of which the Royal Navy says will be swapped out as frequently as every few weeks as the service tries to get regional experience to its crews, while not burning them out on the far-flung mission. That will also allow the ships to spend up to nine months at a time at sea, the navy said.

'2,000-ton Swiss Army knives'

The ships will not have a permanent base in the Pacific. Instead, they'll call in bases and ports of allies and partners as best suits their mission, the navy said.

Along with their normal crews, the ships will host up to 52 Royal Marines or other troops, who can help with specific missions, "a versatility which makes the vessels '2,000-ton Swiss Army knives,'" according to the navy statement.

The ships headed west into the Atlantic from Portsmouth to begin their deployment Tuesday. They will go through the Panama Canal to make their way to their new Pacific patrol area.

Spey and Tamar have gotten World War I-era "dazzle paint" for their Pacific mission. The paint scheme was meant to make warships harder to track a hundred years ago, at time when the British fleet was regarded as the best in the world.

"With our paint schemes, we stand out -- we look different. We'll be flying the White Ensign together in the Indo-Pacific region. People will know that the Royal Navy is back," said Evans, Spey's commander.

UK allies and partners around the region have already gotten a taste of the modern Royal Navy this summer with the deployment of Britain's largest warship, the aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, to the region.

The UK's Carrier Strike Group 21, which also includes American and Dutch warships, left Britain in May on a seven-month deployment that has seen it go as far as South Korea, where it completed three days of exercises with the South Korean Navy last week.

That followed the first-ever exercises between US and British carrier strike groups as the carrier USS Carl Vinson and its escorts held combined exercises with the Queen Elizabeth in the Pacific. F-35 stealth fighter jets from both carriers conducted training operations during those exercises.

UK-Japan defense cooperation

The Queen Elizabeth visited the Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan this week, with senior Japanese defense officials and military officers visiting the carrier on Monday.

"The visit of the British carrier strike group holds great significance, to maintain and strengthen a free and open Indo-Pacific," Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said after his visit to the Queen Elizabeth, according to a Reuters report.

Yokosuka is also the homeport of the American carrier USS Ronald Reagan, the only one of the US Navy's 11 aircraft carriers that is based outside the United States.

That is seen as a symbol of the strong US defense commitment to Japan, the kind of ties Britain wants to promote in the Pacific with the Queen Elizabeth and its other warships.

"The visit to Japan of HMS Queen Elizabeth and other UK vessels of the Carrier Strike Group is a confident embodiment of the close and deepening relationship between the UK and Japan," British Ambassador to Japan Julia Longbottom said in a statement.

"The UK-Japan relationship has a long history. We believe this visit marks the elevation of our defense and security relationship to a new level," she said.

All three partners, Japan, the UK and the US, have been vocal about what they term the increasing Chinese threat to security around the Asia-Pacific.

In its defense white paper released this summer, Tokyo took a strong stance against what it called China's "unilateral attempts to change the status quo in the East and South China Seas," and it mentioned Britain as a key partner in sharing its vision of a "free and open Indo-Pacific."

For its part, China has scoffed at the presence of the UK carrier and other warships in the region.

Writing in Chinese state media when the Queen Elizabeth transited the South China Sea in late July, Wu Shicun, president of China's National Institute for South China Sea Studies, described the UK carrier deployment as an attempt to "relive the glory days of the British Empire."

"The South China Sea was a symbol of Britain's glorious colonial past, through which the old-time empire that prided itself on its worldwide colonies shipped back the fortune and treasures it plundered in Asia," Wu wrote.

On Wednesday, Hu Xijin, editor of the state-run tabloid the Global Times, brushed off the significance of the pride of the UK fleet in Pacific waters.

"The British aircraft carrier's visit to Japan was regarded by Chinese netizens as a hug of two hired thugs of the US. In the eyes of Chinese netizens, Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier is useless as a dredger," Hu said on Twitter.

The-CNN-Wire

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BENTON COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)  Indiana State Police Detectives have located two suspects in a burglary that occurred in Fowler. According to ISP, Caleb Oppelt and Paija Bennett were both suspects in a burglary that occurred on February 9, in Benton County.

Caleb Oppelt was located in a residence in Frankfort Wednesday. When officers arrived Oppelt ran from the house but was taken shortly into custody with the help of a K-9 officer.

Oppelt had an active warrant for his arrest for the following charges:

Two Counts of Burglary - Level 1 Felony

Two Counts of Conspiracy to Commit Burglary - Level 1 Felony

3Two Counts Aggravated Battery - Level 3 Felony

Paija Bennett was located in Minnesota and extradited to Benton County. He is currently being held in Benton County Jail and will face the following charge:

Two Counts of Burglary - Level 1 Felony

As we previously reported, detectives had believed both suspects had fled the state and were considered armed and dangerous.
LOGANSPORT, Ind. (AP)  A public funeral will be held Sept. 14 for the 22-year-old Marine from Logansport who was killed in Afghanistan.

U.S. Marine Cpl. Humberto Sanchez was one of 13 military service members killed inside the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, by a suicide bomber on Aug. 26. At least 170 Afghans also were killed.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Sept. 14 at LifeGate Church, 831 Burlington Ave. in Logansport. Burial with full military graveside rites will follow at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Logansport.

Public visitation will occur 1-7 p.m. Monday at the church.

Gundrum Funeral Home announced the arrangements Tuesday.

Sanchez is scheduled to arrive at Grissom Air Reserve Base Sunday morning. There will be no ceremony upon his arrival in Logansport.

Sanchez was among 17 members of his Logansport High School class who joined the military after their 2017 graduation.

Eleven Marines, one Navy sailor and one Army soldier were among the dead, while 18 other U.S. service members were wounded in Thursdays bombing, which also claimed the lives of more than 160 Afghans. Officials have blamed the bombing on Afghanistans offshoot of the Islamic State group.
Lows this morning ran 51-55.

Highs today should reach 75-81.

Lows of 50-55 are expected tonight with some patchy shallow fog, especially near water & low-lying areas.

Highs of 78-85 are expected Friday with lots of sunshine, low humidity & a calm wind becoming south at 5-10 mph.

The weekend looks very warm to hot & dry with 87-91 Saturday with LOW HUMIDITY & 88-94 Sunday with higher humidity. Heat indices Sunday will run 91-98.

Heat on the move eastward Friday-Saturday:

Monday & Tuesday look hot & rather humid with highs 90-95 with heat indices 93-100.

Projected temperatures on the afternoon of Monday, September 13:

Tropical system may make landfall in Texas & those remnants will likely move up through Mississippi to Tennessee, then Ohio & Pennsylvania early to mid-next week. They will be pulled southeastward by our surface cold front pushing southeastward.

For us, with that front, Isolated to scattered storms (25-35%) are possible Tuesday evening-night to Wednesday (mainly before 1 p.m. Wednesday).

MARGINAL RISK of severe weather is possible (Level 1 of 5) for isolated severe storms.

The tropical remnants will intercept much moisture, so that is why I kept the rainfall coverage at 25-35%.

It will turn a bit cooler & less humid Wednesday with high near 84 & low Wednesday night near 60.

After 78-85 Thursday, we heat up again & the ridging dominates with above to well-above normal temperatures here. The storms track will be the Northern Plains & southern Canada.

Afternoon temperatures Friday, September 17:

Tropics will be active with areas to watch for landfalling systems now to September 30:

1. Texas Initially

2. Florida, Carolinas, Bahamas

3. Overall East Coast from Virginia to Maine

4. Northern Mexico

Strong surface cold front should pass around September 20-21.

Storms are possible with SLIGHT RISK parameters suggested. At first, the front looked more anafrontal with less severe risk, but it is looking more katafrontal now. So, severe risk has increased.

Shot of much cooler air comes in for real taste of Fall!

Potentially near/record warmth could occur for a brief time in the October 7-14 time frame as above to well-above normal temperatures occur frequently in the first half of October.

Overall below normal rainfall trend is expected now to mid-October, unless we can really get a tropical system into our area or remnants tropical moisture in.

Date, Day Conditions Daily high/morning low:

83/53...Sept. 10, Fri. Patchy Shallow Fog AM, Mostly Sunny, NOT Humid, Calm Wind Becoming S 5-10 mph....Records: 97-1983

90/61...Sept. 11, Sat. Mostly Sunny, NOT Humid, However (Dew Points 55-61), SW Wind 15-30 mph......Records: 96-2013

92/68...Sept. 12, Sun. Partly Cloudy then Mostly Sunny, More Humid Dew Points 63-68, Heat Index to 94, SW Wind 10-20 becoming Light & Variable.....Records: 98-1897

92/64...Sept. 13, Mon. Mostly Sunny, Dew Points 65-70, Heat Index to 96, SW Wind 15-30 mph.....Records: 99-1939

93/67...Sept. 14, Tue. Becoming Pt. Cloudy, Dew Points 65-70, Heat Index to 98, Isolated Evening-Night Storms (25%), MARGINAL RISK for Severe, SW Wind 15-30 mph....Records: 99-1939

84/68...Sept. 15, Wed. Pt.-M. Cloudy, Humid, Isolated to Sct'd Storms (25-35%), MARGINAL RISK for Severe, E to SE to SW to NE 10 mph.....Records: 100-1939

84/60....Sept. 16, Thu. Pt.-M. Cloudy, , Less Humid, NE to E Wind 5-10 mph....Records: 98-1939

90/65....Sept. 17, Fri. Pt. Cloudy to Mostly Sunny, NOT Humid, (Dew Points 55-61), S Wind 5-15 mph....Records: 93-1891

94/68....Sept. 18, Sat. Mostly Sunny, Humid (Dew Points 65-70), Heat Index to 100, SW Wind 15-30 mph.....Records: 93-1891

94/73...Sept. 19, Sun. Mostly Sunny, Humid, Heat Index to 100, SW Wind 20-30 mph...Records: 94-1891

94/75...Sept. 20, Mon. Partly Cloudy, SSW Wind 15-30 mph, Heat Index to 102, Isolated Shower/Storm (20%)...Records: 95-1940

88/75...Sept. 21, Tue. Showers/Storms Likely with SLIGHT RISK Parameters for Severe...Records:

71/55...Sept. 22, Wed. Partly Cloudy, NW Wind 15-25 mph.

72/43...Sept. 23, Thu. Partly Cloudy, NNE Wind 10-15 mph.

74/45...Sept. 24, Fri. Mostly Sunny, E to SSE Wind 5-15 mph.

83/57...Sept. 25, Sat. Partly Cloudy, SW Wind 15-25 mph.

87/66...Sept. 26, Sun. Partly Cloudy, Few Showers/Storms, SW Wind 20-30 mph.

74/57...Sept. 27, Mon. Partly Cloudy, NE Wind 5-10 mph.

72/46...Sept. 28, Tue. Sunny, E Wind 2-5 mph.

77/46...Sept. 29, Wed. Mostly Sunny, S Wind 10-15 mph.

82/54...Sept 30, Thu. Mostly Sunny, SW Wind 10-20 mph.

83/60...Oct. 1, Fri. Partly Cloudy, SW Wind 10-20 mph.

86/65...Oct. 2, Sat. Partly Cloudy, SW 15-25 mph.

82/66...Oct. 3, Sun. Mostly Cloudy, Some Sct'd Showers/Storms Possible, SSW 10-20 mph.

74/57...Oct. 4, Mon., Becoming Partly Cloudy, W Wind 10-15 mph.
TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. (WLFI)- The Tippecanoe Health Department updated the public Wednesday on how COVID-19 is affecting the community.

So far 98,001 people are fully vaccinated in the county. An additional 2,628 have had their first dose of either the Pzier or Moderna vaccine. 59.4 percent of all eligible people are fully vaccinated in the county and 52.7 percent of the total county population is fully vaccinated. That is less than county health officials' goal of 70 percent. They say once the county is 70 percent vaccinated the spread of COVID-19 will be much less.

Those who made themselves available for questions during the press conference included County Health Officer Dr. Jermey Adler, West Lafayette Mayor John Dennis, Franciscan Health Dr. Daniel Wickert, and Dr. Esteban Ramirez, the chief medical officer of the Protect Purdue Health Center.

Since the county hasn't reached its goal of 70 percent fully vaccinated, the Delta variant of the virus is continuing to spread. Tippecanoe County Health Officer Jeremy Adler says that the county's positivity rate is 5.8 percent. Meaning we are still considered a high transmission community. The county would need to have a transmission rate of less the 5 percent to no longer be considered high risk.

Dr. Adler says the CDC's recommendation is that communities with high community spread should be wearing masks inside.

However, county commissioners have not shown support for creating a mask mandate. County Commissioner Tom Murtaugh attended the press conference in the audience and wasn't wearing a mask.

Breakthrough cases of fully vaccinated individuals were also a topic of discussion during the press conference. The number of people who have tested positive for COVID-19 after being vaccinated remains low. Less than .6 percent of cases are breakthrough cases.

"Between May 10th and July 31st fully vaccinated individuals only accounted for 14.5 percent of new COVID-19 cases," said Dr. Adler. "So in other words, 85.5 percent of people in our county who got COVID-19 between May 10th and July 31st were actually unvaccinated."

Between that same time frame, there were only 9 hospitalizations of Tippecanoe County residents who were fully vaccinated and two deaths. The two deaths were people that were 75 years of age and older. 20 deaths occurred of people that were unvaccinated during that same time.

Along with all of that, the demand for testing continues to be high. This has prompted the Indiana state department of health to open up some of the sites they have closed.

Many people are having to wait a long time to get a test and their results. This comes as some travel locations are requiring a negative COVID-19 test regardless of if you are vaccinated or not.

"We obviously have some logistics to work out but the time frame the state gave was that they were hoping to have those up and running in the next 1 to 2 weeks so we hope to make that happen," said Dr. Adler.

The health department did not indicate where the state testing site will be located at this time. As of right now, the Indiana State Department of Health is allowing Rapid antigen testing to be accepted without a confirmatory PCR. This applies to testing done in a clinical setting. This does not apply to congregate living facilities.

Another announcement that was made at the press conference is that Franciscan Health is experiencing a shortage of adult crutches.

Due to supply chain issues, the hospital has been told they may not get the amount they need until the end of the month.

That's according to Doctor Daniel Wickert. If you have a pair of new or gently used aluminum crutches you can donate them to the hospital.

To find out how to do so you can call the Franciscan Health Foundation at 765-423-6812 for details.
BEIJING, Sept. 9 (Xinhua)  General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday sent a message of congratulations to Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) on the 73rd anniversary of the DPRK's founding.

In his congratulatory message, Xi noted that over the past 73 years since the DPRK's founding, the WPK has united and led the DPRK people to make relentless efforts and achieve great successes in advancing the socialist cause.

As a comrade and friend, China is sincerely happy about that, he added.

Noting that the DPRK people are now thoroughly carrying out the decisions made at the 8th Congress of the WPK and going all out to promote economic and social development, Xi said China is confident that under the strong leadership of the WPK Central Committee headed by Kim, the DPRK people, forging ahead in unity, will surely build their country better.

He stressed that the traditional friendship between China and the DPRK, which has kept growing stronger over time, is a precious treasure shared by the two sides.

Xi recalled that in recent years, he and Kim have maintained close communication and guided bilateral ties to steadily move forward and continuously produce gratifying results, which has further enriched the China-DPRK traditional friendship.

Emphasizing that he attaches great importance to the development of the China-DPRK relationship, Xi said he is ready to work with Kim to promote bilateral friendly and cooperative relations for steady and sustained development and lift the ties to higher levels, so as to create more benefits for both countries and their people.

(Source: Xinhua)
Kentucky hospital pushed to its limits as lawmakers extend state of emergency due to COVID-19 surge
Five people detained and two firearms recovered after armed police attend incident in Penycae

Armed officers attending a property in Delfryn, Penycae have recovered two firearms.

Police have confirmed that three men and two women have been detained for offences associated with the incident.

Local officers will remain in the area as the property continues to be searched, however there are no ongoing concerns for public safety.

A spokesperson for North Wales Police said: Thanks to the local community for your information and assistance.

If you need to contact us about this incident, please use our live webchat or call 101 ref Z132865.

Original: North Wales Police say there is no cause for public concern, as armed officers attend an address in Penycae this morning.

A short statement reads, We are currently dealing with an incident in Delfryn, Penycae.

There is no cause for public concern, however please avoid the area whilst officers deal safely with the incident.

Thank you for your cooperation.

(Thanks to Geraint for the top image)
Health board hits back with evidence after media wrongly reports claiming anti-vaccine mood hardening in North Wales

Claims that anti-vaccine sentiment is becoming stronger in North Wales are not borne out by the evidence, the regions health board has said.

Last week, Reach PLCs Daily Post title ran a story on the latest uptake figures of the Covid-19 vaccine headlined Anti-vaccine mood hardens as 93% of unjabbed people refuse call-up on one day.

It highlighted figures which showed health staff called 1,513 people in the area to offer appointments on a single day and only 111 took up the opportunity.

However, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board has dismissed the titles suggestion that pockets of vaccine refuseniks are digging in.

It said the number of people who actively refused the vaccine was low, with most of the calls simply going unanswered.

In her latest weekly update, Gill Harris, the health boards executive director of nursing and midwifery, said: In last weeks COVID-19 vaccination update we provided an overview of the lengths our staff have gone to in order to ensure that people have the opportunity to be vaccinated.

We cited the efforts of our COVID-19 Vaccination Contact Centre staff, who attempted to contact around 1,500 people over the Bank Holiday weekend, leading to 111 booked vaccination appointments.

This was reported by some of our local media as evidence of anti-vaccine mood hardening across the region. However, this is simply not borne out by the evidence.

Almost 60 per cent of the 1,500 phone calls made by our staff went unanswered, while over half of those we managed to speak to said they had already been vaccinated, had an appointment booked, or planned to book online.

Appointments were booked for 20 per cent of those we managed to speak to, while just seven per cent said they did not want to be vaccinated.

Over 80% of people in North Wales now double jabbed

Nearly 90 per cent of the eligible population of North Wales have had their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, while 82 per cent have had their second.

Ms Harris said: We have seen good take up among 16-17-year-olds with almost 10,000 COVID-19 vaccinations administered.

To enable further take up across our broad geography we will be deploying our mobile vaccination units to target those aged 16-17, as we are well aware that this age group can find it difficult to travel to vaccination centres because they are more reliant on public transport and lifts from family members.

In support of this we will be working with our local authorities and colleges across the region over the coming weeks.

Wed like to remind all those eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine that its quick and easy to book your first or second dose using our online booking service or by attending one of our walk in sessions, for which appointments are not required.

COVID-19 vaccine booster

The health board is still awaiting final advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) on the scope of the COVID-19 booster programme.

Ms Harris said: We ask those who are likely to be eligible based on the JCVIs interim advice to please be patient and remember that there is no need to contact us to book an appointment. You will be contacted directly when it is your turn.

Due to the way in which the COVID-19 and Flu vaccinations are delivered and the expected start dates for the respective campaigns, it will not be standard practice to give people these jabs at the same time.

Recruitment success

Following a recruitment event last month, the North Wales health board will be welcoming around 50 additional staff into its vaccination teams in the coming weeks.

In some cases, new recruits will replace current vaccination staff, who are returning to their substantive roles across the health board.

Further recruitment events may be held in the coming weeks. Ms Harris said: These will be widely publicised on social media and on our website.

Update: USA megacorp Gannett Co. Inc. subsidiary Newsquests local title North Wales Pioneer had a go at this article, but pulled the quote the health board was challenging into their headline without qualifying that mood hardening was actually not true
Radical intervention needed to save Wales town centres says minister

A radical intervention is needed to save Wales town centres.

That was the message Deputy Minister for Climate Change, Lee Waters on a visit to Bangor yesterday where he revealed how the Welsh Government will respond to the publication of two major reports on town centre regeneration.

Last week the challenges facing towns and cities across Wales were laid bare in aRegenerating Town Centres in Wales report by Audit Wales, which revealed that one in seven shops on Welsh high streets are vacant.

This is despite 892.6m being invested and leveraged by the Welsh Government into town centres over the last seven years.

Adrian Crompton, auditor general, described Welsh towns and city centres as facing challenges similar to the regeneration of 1945 post-War Britain

Speaking yesterday the deputy minister said that a joined-up intervention to lift town centres is needed, along with and an effort to tackle out-of-town development, if we are to succeed in turning things around.

In Bangor Mr Waters met with local leaders and heads of community organisations to discuss the findings of Professor Karel Williams report Small Towns, Big Issues and Regenerating Town Centres in Wales
NASHVILLE, TN (WSMV) - Gov. Bill Lee slammed President Joe Bidens decision as Tennessee continues to battle COVID-19.

The news of presidents newest vaccine mandate for sizable employers broke during the governor's news conference. He called it a terrible decision.

Biden announces new vaccine mandates that could cover 100 million Americans President Joe Biden on Thursday imposed stringent new vaccine rules on federal workers, large employers and health care staff in a sweeping attempt to contain the latest surge of COVID-19.

Despite right now, 55 percent of all ICU beds statewide being filled with COVID patients. He's remained staunch, allowing businesses and school districts to make their own decisions. Not taking kindly to the president's stringent vaccine rules.

"I think it's a terrible idea," Lee said. "I'm always gonna encourage anyone to comply with the lawI think it's a bad idea."

The governor was also pressed why he didnt wear a mask meeting with children in Perry County to which he responded, Im vaccinated and Im going to act like that.

According to the Tennessee Department of Health, the number of patients hospitalized due to COVID is 3,789. On Sept. 8, there were 3,776 hospitalizations due to COVID, which was a record in the state. To read more on this data, click here.

Later Thursday evening, Lee took to Twitter with a thread regarding The President's orders.
A paraplegic man is coming forward tonight with a warning he says everyone who counts on home assistance needs to see. He came to our Chief investigative reporter Jeremy Finley to expose this.
On April 22, 1993, 18-year-old Stephen Lawrence and Duwayne Brooks were attacked by five racist white youths in Eltham, south east London. Stephen was stabbed to death.

The case is a running sore in public anger against the police and judiciary, the focal point of outrage at injustices and oppressive policing, particularly against black youths. The latest exploration of the case is three-part ITV drama series Stephen, written by Frank Cottrell-Boyce and his son Joe, and directed by Alrick Riley.

It follows on from ITVs 1999 film, The Murder of Stephen Lawrence, written and directed by Paul Greengrass. Greengrass is one of Stephen s executive producers, alongside Jed Mercurio, creator of the popular police corruption drama Line of Duty. The quality of the Stephen production and the warm welcome it has received provide further evidence of the anger that continues over the case, and the sympathy for the Lawrence familys struggles for justice. The performances are uniformly excellent, with Sharlene Whyte and Hugh Quarshie outstanding as Stephens parents, Doreen and Neville Lawrence. (Quarshie also portrayed Neville in the 1999 film).

Hugh Quarshie as Neville Lawrence, Steve Coogan as Clive Driscoll and Sharlene Whyte as Doreen Lawrence (Credit: ITV Drama)

The series focuses on the cold case investigation launched by Detective Chief Inspector Clive Driscoll (Steve Coogan) in 2006. Coogans performance is clearly committed, and speaks to the sympathies that abound. It is not without problems, although these are not his doing.

The Cottrell-Boyces have based their script extensively around Driscolls own 2015 memoir, In Pursuit of the Truth. The effect is to push the real issues of police corruption and injustice into the background by focusing on Driscolls quest for truth.

Stephen Lawrence (Wikimedia Commons/Fair Use)

Driscoll was compulsorily retired in 2014, following his success, at last, in securing two murder convictions in the Stephen Lawrence case. There is some evidence that he was forced out by senior officershe told press the decision had been made above me.

Steve Coogan as Clive Driscoll (Credit: ITV Drama)

His honesty made him a useful investigator of high-profile cases, but clearly came at a cost. He was disciplined and his 1998 investigation into paedophile abuse at a south London care home scrapped, after he expressed interest in interviewing an MP for corroborating evidence. He has attributed his compulsory retirement to speaking out about that case.

The real Driscoll seems to be that staple of British fiction, the honest copper. This is hardly representative of the reality of the police. Making him the linchpin of the drama allows his own good intentions to obscure the real issues.

Stephen Lawrences murder triggered a travesty of justice. No formal crime scene was established at the time. Police had the names of the murder suspectsGary Dobson, David Norris, Luke Knight, and brothers Neil and Jamie Acourtwithin hours, but made no effort to interview them. They were not arrested for a fortnight.

In the programme, Neville (Quarshie) explains bitterly of the police investigation, Its us they harassed, not the racists. Duwayne Brookss phone was bugged, while undercover Metropolitan Police officers spied on the familys campaign for justice as soon as it was established.

Hugh Quarshie as Neville Lawrence (Credit: ITV Drama)

The delayed arrests meant vital evidence was lost, and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decided there was insufficient evidence for a trial. At a private prosecution in 1996, the judge directed acquittal on the same grounds.

Attempting to restore the credibility of the widely discredited police in the eyes of the public, the incoming 1997 Labour government ordered an inquiry into Stephens death, under Sir William Macpherson. It confirmed the polices failure to abide by elementary procedures and raised queries about possible collusion between local criminals and police to cover-up what took place on the night of Stephens death.

David Norriss father, Clifford, was a well-known local convicted armed robber and drug dealer. One month before Stephens murder he tried to pervert the course of justice over another stabbing involving his son and Neil Acourt. Close relations were repeatedly suggested between Clifford Norris and police, especially Detective Sergeant John Davidson, leading to obstruction of the investigation.

Macpherson examined none of this. Instead, Macphersons calculated act of catharsis was to find the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) guilty of institutional racism, thereby concealing the racism and possible malpractice of individual officers.

No one was to be held to account. Officers under investigation were allowed to retire early. Brooks was compensated for his mistreatment by police, but this was not accompanied by any reprimand of the officers responsible. The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said no action would be taken against officers accused of withholding information from the investigation.

Macpherson also recommended a review of the double jeopardy principle, whereby a person cannot be tried for the same offence twice. Public revulsion at the crime and the impunity of Stephen Lawrences known killers gave Labour a convenient figleaf for abolishing this cornerstone of English law as part of the 2003 Criminal Justice Act.

The same Act extended stop and search powers and began enabling non-jury trials, among other repressive provisions, but the 2012 convictions of Dobson and Norris were used to give this a liberal air. The overturning of double jeopardy is taken at face value in Stephen.

The Macpherson inquiry and its conclusions were a deliberate attempt to defuse public anger, but the case did not go away.

The drama begins with Driscoll finding the case files and re-opening the case. Cottrell-Boyce shows a deeply held lack of trust in the police among those campaigning for justice, with Neville expressing no confidence at all in the CPS.

Driscolls decision to take the case is presented as a personal choice by an honest and earnest copper. Its not right, is it? A case like this needs solving, we see him say. He talks about commonsense coppering, because We [the MPS] failed to do our job. After all, If we cant solve a murder like Stephens, whats the point of us?

That really is the central question, but not one the series can address.

Despite showing the residual lies about Stephen and his family that continued to circulate among police officers and more widely, and hinting at the political sensitivity of senior officers, the series takes in good faith a changed MPS post-Macpherson.

It pulls no punches on the state of the police before then, but this is put into the mouth of Driscollthe one good apple. Pondering the delay in making arrests when everyone knew who was responsible, Driscoll is seen explaining that This was the 90s. Officers would make arrests for fun, he says, and the fascist British National Party (BNP) would be more welcome in south London police stations than innocent black youth.

The series is strong on exploring how the forensics case in Stephens murder was jeopardised. The delayed arrests led to the assumption there was no forensic evidence, so checks went undone. The MPS, describing the attack as brief, lowered expectations that there would be any evidence to find. Driscoll declares that phrase was as good as an alibi.

A complete and thorough new forensic investigation turned up fibres from Stephens shirt on Dobson and Norriss clothing, and a minuscule but definitive stain of Stephens blood on Dobsons jacket. This allowed the new murder trial in 2012, where both were convicted.

Stephen continually points to some of the real stories here without being able to pursue them. It hints at the MPSs efforts to limit the investigation and its fallout, without going further. Details of the investigation are leaked to the press. During the trial, negative press stories turn out to be based on statements from MPS Press Office.

Police corruption is a constant presence in the series, and couldnt be otherwise. When former detective Neil Putnam accused Davidson of corruption, the IPCC announced an investigation only into whether Davidson had relations with Clifford Norris. Doreen (Whyte) says contemptuously I never thought it was one detective.

Sharlene Whyte as Doreen Lawrence (Credit: ITV Drama)

In fact, the recently concluded Independent Panel Investigation into the still unsolved 1987 murder of journalist Daniel Morgan, in nearby Sydenham, pointed to endemic police corruption. The inquiry concluded that, far from the MPS being not honest in their dealings on the case, it had been the single greatest obstacle to justice. Morgans Southern Investigations private investigators firm was described as a hub of corruption between serving and retired officers and the media, particularly with Rupert Murdochs now defunct News of the World tabloid.

A 2014 review of possible corruption and the role of undercover policing in the Lawrence case raised possible corruption links between the Lawrence and Morgan investigations. It also found that intelligence about police corruption was not disclosed to Macpherson, meaning that his careful catharsis was an even more extensive cover-up of reality.

Stephen shows the IPCC saying they found no evidence of Davidsons corruption, despite not even interviewing him. The end text of the drama reports that subsequent investigations found reasonable grounds of Davidsons corruption, but no proven connection with Clifford Norris. A National Crime Agency review later concluded there was no evidence against Davidson.

Concluding the trial, the judge congratulates Driscoll in this case that has shamed and humbled the MPS. As the evidence suggests at least three other killers, he expresses hopes that Driscoll will carry on.

Building on the real Driscolls honesty, Cottrell-Boyce portrays him as a stubborn thorn in the side of the MPS. When his team wonder aloud whether there is actually any interest in them solving the case, Driscoll states, Were not doing it for the Met.

Although this may not have been the writers intention, it raises some false hopes of justice from that quarter. Notwithstanding his personal probity, Driscoll remained dedicated to the MPS, which the writers show. We see him loyally accepting a senior officer taking the credit for responsibility after the successful convictions, telling a colleague, Id have been SIO [Senior Investigating Officer] if wed lost.

He was then ousted from the investigation. As the end credits note, the MPS wound up its inquiry in 2020, with the result that The rest of the gang who killed [Stephen] may now never face justice.

Joe Cottrell-Boyces description of Stephen as a story about white terrorism and a police force serving white communities while disregarding black lives is far from the essential issues revealed. Certainly there was racism, but the cover-up after Stephens murder was not about police serving white communities. The essential truth being concealed in all this is that the police are not neutral arbiters in or a reflection of society but an arm of the capitalist state, overseeing class justice.

What change has Macphersons landmark report and identification of institutional racism brought to police since?

Current MPS Commissioner Cressida Dick (Sian Brooke)a continual background presence in the series, monitoring and advising on the politically sensitive aspects of the case and eventually calling Driscoll in to remove him from further investigationwas hailed as the first female Met Commissioner in 2017. She was the senior Met officer responsible for the 2005 shoot-to-kill operation that saw an innocent man, Jean Charles de Menezes, shot seven times in the head without warning at point blank range by Metropolitan Police officers.

In 2011, police shot and killed unarmed black man Mark Duggan in Tottenham, sparking the London riots, suppressed with a draconian crackdown on working class youths. An IPCC inquiry called Duggans killing reasonable and proportionate force.

Stephens end credits note the discovery that the Lawrence family campaign was spied on by undercover police officers. In 2013, undercover officer turned whistleblower Peter Francis revealed that he was told to sabotage a better investigation campaign into the murder by digging up dirt and disinformation. Intelligence was fed back to the security services.

As part of police infiltration of the Militant Tendencys Youth Against Racism in Europe organisation in the 1990s, Francis also spied on campaigns by other families protesting the death of their loved ones in custody or at the hands of police. These included Brian Douglas, who died from a police baton blow after his car was pulled over in a stop and search, and Wayne Douglas, whose death in a police cell in Brixton was ruled accidental.

Post-Macpherson, the MPS continued in its role as a repressive state body. It is not a reformed institution, nor is it reformable. Last year, Doreens lawyer Imran Khan told the Undercover Police Inquiry that there had been very little change. In the obstruction of Stephens murder investigation, not a single police officer was disciplined or sacked, while the undercover spies have, to date, evaded proper scrutiny.

Cottrell-Boyce, Coogan et al, as with the vast majority of ordinary people, want to see justice for the Lawrence family, and their sympathetic treatment is welcome, but no hope can be pinned on such institutions to deliver it.
Former Georgia prosecutor Jackie Johnson was indicted on September 2 for shielding the men who chased down and murdered Ahmaud Arbery on February 23, 2020.

A Glynn County, Georgia grand jury returned a felony charge against the former Brunswick Judicial Court District Attorney for violating her oath of office, along with a misdemeanor for hindering a law enforcement officer.

Jackie Johnson, the former district attorney for Georgias Brunswick Judicial Circuit (Credit: Glynn County Sheriffs Office)

Arbery, a 25-year-old African-American man, was pursued by three white men as he was jogging in the Satilla Shores neighborhood just outside Brunswick, Georgia. One of the men confronted and shot Arbery with a shotgun at close range.

The father and sonGregory and Travis McMichaelarmed themselves and followed the jogger in their pickup truck, while their neighbor William Roddie Bryan joined the chase in his own vehicle and blocked Arberys escape. As Bryan recorded the incident on smartphone from his car, Travis got out of the pickup and shot Arbery several times while his father, who was also armed with a handgun, looked on from the bed of the pickup truck.

Brunswick law enforcement authorities did not arrest any of the three attackers and they remained free for more than two months until Bryans video of the shooting was posted online. Up to that point, Gregory McMichael claimed that he and his son were attempting to make a citizens arrest of Arbery, who they claimed was behind a string of robberies in Satilla Shores. There is no evidence that Arbery ever committed any crimes in the area.

The indictment against prosecutor Johnson includes a transcript of a phone call from Gregory McMichael that says, Jackie, this is Greg. Could you call me as soon as you possibly can? My son and I have been involved in a shooting and I need some advice right away.

Although there is no record showing that Johnson called McMichael back, the indictment states that Johnson showed favor and affection toward Gregory during the investigation, and interfered with police officers at the scene by directing that Travis McMichael should not be placed under arrest.

The evidence for Johnsons favorable treatment of the killers includes the fact that Greg McMichael had worked as an investigator in her office, retiring in 2019, and that he also previously worked as a police officer in the area.

On March 8, 2020 two Glynn County commissioners accused Johnson of preventing the McMichaels from being arrested immediately. Commissioner Allen Booker said at the time, The police at the scene went to her, saying they were ready to arrest both of them. These were the police at the scene who had done the investigation. She shut them down to protect her friend McMichael. Another Commissioner, Peter Murphy, said that police at the scene had concluded that there was probable cause to apprehend the McMichaels, but they were told not to make the arrest by Johnsons office.

The attorney for the Arbery family, Lee Merritt, said in a statement that prosecutors must be held accountable when they interfere with investigations in order to protect friends and law enforcement. Ahmaud Arberys mother, Wanda Cooper Jones, posted her reaction on Facebook, stating, Former DA Jackie Johnson....Indicted!!! JusticeForMyBaby!!!!

The process, which has now taken more than fifteen months to complete, began after the announcement in May 2020 by Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr that an investigation by state and federal authorities was being conducted into the handling of the killing of Arbery. Carr asked the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to investigate both DA Johnsons actions as well as those of Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney George Barnhill. So far, no charges have been announced against Barnhill.

First Johnson and then Barnhill abruptly recused themselves from the investigation of Arberys murder. In a letter to the Glynn County Police Department, Barnhill stated that the McMichaels were in hot pursuit of a burglary suspect with solid firsthand probable cause, in their neighborhood and it appears their intent was to stop and hold this criminal suspect until law enforcement arrived. Under Georgia Law this is perfectly legal. Barnhill, furthermore, wrote that it clearly appears that the McMichaels had firearms being carried in an open fashion.

While the indictment of former District Attorney Johnsonshe lost her bid for reelection on November 4is by no means a guarantee that a conviction is forthcoming, the exposure of the details of the protection given to Arberys killers is an illustration of exactly how the law enforcement system functions in towns and cities across the US.

If the video of Travis McMichael shooting Ahmaud Arbery had not surfaced, there would likely have never been any investigation into what happened on February 23, 2020, and the murder by a former police officer and his son would have been deemed justified.

Individuals who are either currently active or former members of police departments carry out acts of wanton and brutal violence against working class and poor people on a regular basis and they are permitted to lie about what they have done and are simultaneously protected from prosecution by authorities within the system. Meanwhile, these working-class individualsif they are lucky enough to survive the violenceare themselves often charged, convicted and sent to jail on the basis of false evidence and testimony manufactured for the purpose of covering up the real crimes committed against them.

While the racism of law enforcement officers, prosecutors and judges and others plays a role in the targeting of individuals for this treatment, police violence and murder are directed against working-class and poor people of all races and ethnicities. A database of police murders maintained by the Washington Post shows, for example, that the total number of people killed by police in the state of Georgia since 2015 is 240. This includes 95 white, 95 black, 14 Hispanic, 3 Other and 33 Unknown. More than half of these individuals did not flee before they were shot and the majority of them were men between the ages of 18 and 44. Approximately 10 percent of the shootings did not include police body camera footage, and therefore the explanations of what happened provided by authorities is subject to serious doubt.
The state governments in New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria are rapidly lifting safety restrictions as they prepare to end lockdowns next month. Each day, announcements of mass infections and hospitalisations, and a growing number of deaths, are accompanied by declarations that it is necessary to reopen the economy.

Underscoring the bipartisan character of this profit-driven campaign, the drive to end lockdowns is being spearheaded by Victorias Labor Premier Daniel Andrews and Gladys Berejiklian, the head of the Liberal-National Coalition government in NSW.

NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian (Screenshot, ABC News)

They are implementing a plan that was signed off by the National Cabinet, comprised of the state and territory leaders, most of them Labor, and the federal Coalition government. It insists that the population must learn to live with the virus, in line with the deadly herd immunity program that has resulted in healthcare catastrophes around the world.

This morning, Berejiklian announced that the lockdown of Sydney will end next month, the Monday after 70 percent of the adult population is fully-vaccinated. This inoculation rate, which triggers the start of reopenings under the national plan, may be reached in the middle of October. Berejiklian vowed that mass face-to-face teaching in the schools would begin resuming from October 25, so the lockdown will be lifted before then.

The announcement was made as NSW reported another 1,405 daily infections. While the growth in case numbers has slowed over the past week, the state is recording between 1,200 and 1,500 infections per day.

Already, the NSW healthcare system is on the brink of a collapse, with nurses and doctors warning publicly that staffing levels are inadequate for the 1,175 COVID-19 cases admitted to hospitals, 202 people of them in intensive care, 80 requiring ventilation. At least 1,700 more are supposedly receiving hospital grade care in their homes.

The criminal character of the reopening plan is underscored by the fact that the lifting of the lockdown coincides exactly with what the NSW government itself predicts will be the sharpest crisis of the hospitals. Modelling it released earlier this week predicts that the states intensive care units (ICUs) will enter into a code black in late October, signifying that they are overwhelmed and that demand for critical care services significantly exceeds organisation-wide capacity. ICU patients would exceed existing beds by almost 100.

The modelling states that the government will respond by activating a triage system, under which medical care will be allocated based on the likelihood of survival, meaning some critically-ill patients may be left to die. Staff-to-patient ratios, already at dangerous levels, will be further increased.

The dire predictions in the official modelling understate the extent of the crisis. It is based on cherry-picked and misleading data, and asserts that ICUs have a surge capacity of 700 beds additional to those already open, despite the fact that there are no extra nurses or doctors to staff them.

The reopening, which will inevitably result in a major spike in infections, can only exacerbate the disaster in the hospitals. This was indicated by a report in the Australian today that senior figures in NSW Health, including the states Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant, had called for a vaccination rate of between 80 and 85 percent before the lockdown was ended.

Chant reportedly pointed to the experiences of Israel and the United Kingdom as examples of how communities could still suffer if reopening occurred without adequate vaccination coverage and restrictions in place, resulting in high case numbers, hospitalisations and other adverse effects on health systems.

The health officer, however, was overruled by Berejiklian. The plan to end the lockdown is labelled the roadmap for freedom, aping British Prime Minister Boris Johnsons description of July 19, when his government lifted all restrictions as freedom day. Johnson has since declared that 50,000 annual COVID fatalities are acceptable. Berejiklian has said the population must put things in perspective and recognise that you are going to have death.

A NSW government press release today said the roadmap was designed by the government and industry, i.e., the major corporations. Treasurer Dominic Perrottet, who was reportedly agitating in cabinet for an immediate end to inadequate safety restrictions during the early stages of the outbreak in July, told the press conference that the roadmap is aimed at providing certainty to business.

While everything is being done to ensure a full resumption of corporate profit-making activities, millions of workers and children are being placed at great risk. The lockdown will be ended the Monday after the 70 percent target is reached, even though it takes up to three weeks after inoculation for immunity to be developed.

The 70 percent figure, moreover, accounts for only around 56 percent of the population. Vaccines were approved for 1216-year-olds earlier this month, but Berejiklian insisted today that inoculation rates among this cohort were not counted in the 70 percent target. There is no vaccine available for children under 12. A third of all infections in the current outbreak have been among children and teenagers.

Under these conditions, hundreds of thousands are to be herded into the classrooms in a school reopening that begins on October 5 and will see every year level return by November 8. There will not even be a mask mandate for students under 12. This threatens a similar scenario to that playing out in the US, where each week teachers are dying and hospital paediatric units are overflowing with children infected by COVID.

The end of the lockdown will see the reopening of hospitality venues, including pubs, restaurants and cafes, with patronage restricted to those who are fully-vaccinated and density supposedly limited to one person per four square metres. The same rules will apply for all retail, as well as hairdressers and nail salons, while gyms can have as many as 20 customers present at any one time.

Stadiums and other mass outdoor events can proceed with up to 5,000 spectators. Cinemas, theatres, music halls, museums and galleries will open with up to 75 percent capacity. Home gatherings of up to five vaccinated adults will be permitted, along with outdoor gatherings of 20. Weddings and funerals can be held with 50 attendees and religious services can resume. Travel will be permitted throughout NSW and camping grounds will reopen.

Taken together, the measures signal open slather, abandoning any pretence of seeking to limit the spread of the virus. Already, the government announced today an end to lockdown measures in regional areas of the state that have not recorded COVID cases for the past 14 days, even if the virus has been detected in sewage systems.

The same program is being pursued in Victoria, where Premier Andrews has abandoned earlier claims that his government is attempting to end transmission in the current outbreak. A lockdown ends for all of regional Victoria, except the city of Shepparton, at midnight tonight, despite multiple exposure sites throughout the state. The same preparations for a reopening based on arbitrary vaccination figures are being drawn up, as Melbournes infection numbers grow rapidly, reaching a new high of 324 cases today.

Modelling cited by the Age this week predicts a ten-fold rise in total cases, to 18,000 by October 16. This would be accompanied by some 800 hospitalisations, with warnings that Victorias healthcare system, which has even less ICU capacity than NSW, could be overwhelmed.

Workers and young people are being brought face to face with the deadly logic of the capitalist market. Everything, including the health and lives of the population, is subordinated to the profit interests of the largest corporations and banks. The preparations for a dangerous reopening must be fought, including through the formation of rank-and-file workplace committees, and a political struggle against Labor, the Liberals and the entire establishment, based on a socialist program to eradicate the virus and ensure life.
Shocked by polls that at one point suggested that California Governor Gavin Newsom could lose the recall election set for next Tuesday, September 14, the national Democratic Party has flooded the state with campaign surrogates, backed by a huge infusion of corporate cash, seeking to maintain its political control of the most populous US state.

The gubernatorial elections are dominated by the expanding pandemic. New cases in the state have risen to 15,000 a day, the highest level since the beginning of February. With the reopening of schools to in-person instruction, over 24,000 pediatric cases were recorded last week and hospitalizations are surging.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign event for California Gov. Gavin Newsom at the IBEW-NECA Joint Apprenticeship Training Center in San Leandro, Calif., Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The recall campaign is being driven and financed by far-right forces opposed to the most minimal restraints on the spread of the pandemic. Newsom himself, however, has presided over the reopening of schools and businesses throughout the state, in line with the policy of the Democratic Party and the Biden administration.

Vice President Kamala Harris was the highest-ranking Democrat to stand side-by-side with Newsom, appearing Wednesday in the Bay Area suburb of San Leandro. Harris praised Newsom in extravagant terms, portraying the multimillionaire scion of the San Francisco moneyed elite as a friend of working people who stands for workers rights. The real content of this claim is that Newsom is a close ally of the union apparatus, a key instrument in suppressing opposition in the working class, particularly to the reopening of schools.

It was symbolic that the site chosen for the HarrisNewsom rally was the IBEWNECA Joint Apprenticeship Training Center. The acronyms stand for International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (the electricians union) and National Electrical Contractors Association (the employers lobby). Such labormanagement joint facilities are conduits for the corporate payment of millions of dollars to corrupt union officials and the promotion of corporatist schemes against the working class.

Harris followed a group of prominent Democrats who campaigned with Newsom across southern California on the Labor Day weekend, including Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota. On Labor Day itself, Newsom appeared with Representative Karen Bass, the left-talking congresswoman from Los Angeles, at a center for black voters in Baldwin Hills.

Former president Barack Obama recently shot an ad defending Newsoms pandemic policies, declaring that the outcome was a choice between protecting our kids and putting them at riskeven though it is Newsom himself that is overseeing the reopening of schools, which will guarantee the mass infection of children and teachers alike.

The most significant support for Newsom has come from Bernie Sanders. The senator from Vermont and former presidential candidate, who carried California convincingly in the presidential primary last year, defeating Joe Biden, appeared in a campaign ad urging a no vote on the recall of Newsom, which has been running virtually non-stop on California media for two weeks, with a particular focus on Latino voters.

Sanders has entirely buried his supposed differences with the Democratic Party leadership to play the role of Senate cheerleader for Bidens legislative agenda, in his capacity as chairman of the Budget Committee. In electoral politics, even though he remains nominally an independent, he is rushing to the rescue of the California governor who is the epitome of the corporate Democrats whom Sanders regularly denounced in his two presidential campaigns.

The Democratic rescue operation for Newsom is to culminate in an appearance by President Biden, now expected to take place next Monday, on the eve of September 14, the final day for dropping off ballots in the election, which is being conducted entirely by mail.

Voters have only two choices to make on the ballot. The first question is whether Newsom should be removed from office. The second question is who should replace him, but that will be moot if the recall is defeated. Recent polls have shown the no vote ahead, by varying margins, meaning Newsom would remain in office, and show far-right African-American talk-show host Larry Elder leading in the replacement ballot, where there are 46 candidates to choose from, but no prominent Democrats.

The Socialist Equality Party has called for a no vote on the recall, because it was engineered by ultra-right Republican groups who want to eliminate even the most minimal mitigation measures against the spread of the pandemic. The SEP is running educator David Moore for governor and urges a vote for him in the replacement vote. A vote for David Moore is a class-conscious vote for the independent political organization of the working class based on socialist principles.

More than 6 million ballots have been returned already, and registered Democrats account for a clear majority, well over 50 percent, while registered Republicans account for about 25 percent, and registered independents for the remainder. This is in line with the overall registration figures in the state, which the Democratic Party has dominated for the past two decades.

On the central issue in the campaign, the coronavirus pandemic, each candidate is aligned with his respective faction of the ruling elite. Elder is an open proponent of the policy carried out by Republican governors in Florida, Texas and other states, of dropping all restrictions and opposes mandates of both vaccines and mask wearingherd immunity without any pretense of fighting the pandemic.

Newsom espouses the mitigation strategy of the Biden administrationfull reopening of schools, with mandatory mask wearing and mandatory vaccination of teachers, limited restrictions on bars, restaurants and in-person services like barber shops, but no restrictions on the operations of giant corporations and agribusiness.

Both candidates, like the US ruling elite as a whole, dismiss any possibility of eliminating or eradicating COVID-19, which has already killed more than 67,000 people in California and infected 4.4 million, or one in every nine people in the state.

As the New York Times noted, in a remarkable admission, From the start, Newsom decided to avoid making the race a referendum on his tenure. In other words, the Democratic governor did not want an up-or-down vote on his record, which large numbers of Democratic voters condemn. Instead, he sought to intimidate them with the prospect of something even worse.

Elder has certainly obliged, providing an endless stream of ultra-right provocations. He has embraced Trumps conspiracy theories about the 2020 elections being stolen, and embraced a litany of other ultra-right views, opposing abortion and sex education, and abolition of the minimum wage.

The emergence of Elder as the leading candidate to replace Newsom likely accounts for much of the apparent shift in popular sentiment against recalling the governor, who is widely despised as the epitome of ruling class arrogance and entitlement. The financial disparity between Newsom, who has raised $60.5 million to fight the recall, and Elder, who has raised $8.3 million, much of it from outside California, is also having an impact.

Unlike elections for public office, where contributions are limited to $32,500 to any one candidate, the recall is regulated like a referendum vote, so that under state law individuals and organizations can give unlimited amounts of money. More than $50 million out of Newsoms $60 million haul has come in donations of more than $100,000 from wealthy individuals, corporations and unions. The California Teachers Association, which alongside the national teachers unions has supported forcing students back into crowded classrooms, gave $1.8 million, the second-largest donation to the no campaign.

The bulk of this corporate money comes from Silicon Valley and Hollywood, both mainstays of the Democratic Party. The biggest single donor is Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings, who has given $3 million to the campaign for a no vote. Connie Ballmer, wife of former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, chipped in $1 million, and Priscilla Chan, wife of Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, added $750,000. Others include Marissa Mayer, of Google and Yahoo, $200,000, and Laurene Powell Jobs, widow of the Apple founder, $400,000.

The surge of campaign cash is powering the media campaign that appears to have boosted Newsoms prospects of survival. While the poll numbers have fluctuated considerablybut always showing Newsom and the no vote in the leadthe ballot numbers reported so far suggest that recall advocates hopes of a hugely disproportionate turnout among Republicans will not materialize.

A clear sign of the flagging fortunes of the recall campaign is the turn by its advocates to preemptive claims that the election is being stolen by Newsom and the Democrats. The most prominent advocate of the stolen elections hoax, ex-President Donald Trump, weighed in on Tuesday, telling Newsmax, Its probably rigged. Theyre sending out all ballots, the ballots are mail-in ballots, adding that in those circumstances, no one is going to win except these Democrats.

The only candidate in the elections who is advancing a program that represents the interests of the working class is the candidate of the Socialist Equality Party. The WSWS urges its readers to vote no on the recall, but to reject the bipartisan conspiracy against the working class and fight for a program to eradicate the pandemic by voting for David Moore .
Left: Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (AP Photo/Francisco Seco), Top-right: Protest against BC's reopening plan (Facebook), Bottom-right: Sudbury Vale miners' picket line (USW Local 6500)

The Socialist Equality Party (Canada) will hold an online meetingCanadas pandemic election, the resurgence of working class struggle, and the fight for socialismon Saturday, September 18 at 1:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. To attend, please register here.

The meeting, which will be held in English and French, will advance a fighting program for the working class to eradicate the COVID-19 pandemic, and oppose the intensified assault on workers social and democratic rights that Canadas next government will mount, whichever party or combination of parties leads it.

All the parties vying for office after September 20th agree that the working class must bear the cost of the pandemic, which they view as an opportunity to reorganize Canadian capitalism to make it more competitive against its international rivals. All support the ruling elites profits before lives strategy, and the gutting of the remaining anti-COVID-19 social distancing measures amid a Delta variant-driven fourth wave of the pandemic that threatens to have catastrophic consequences for children and young people. While this criminal policy is advocated most aggressively by the hard-right Conservatives and the big business Liberals, the prioritization of corporate money-making over the protection of human lives is fully endorsed by the nominally left New Democrats and the Quebec first Bloc Quebecois. The NDP began the election campaign by appealing to the Governor General to use her authoritarian powers to prevent the calling of an election on the grounds that the outgoing parliament, which oversaw a $650 billion bailout of the rich and super-rich, was working well.

The election campaign has starkly laid bare the vast gulf that exists between the official capitalist parties and the broad masses of working people. The political establishment is focused on rearming Canadian imperialism for war, aligning Ottawa with US imperialisms aggressive diplomatic, economic, and military-strategic offensive against China, and stepping up the exploitation of working people while gutting social spending to ensure corporate Canadas profitability.

The working class, on the other hand, is entering ever more openly into direct struggle to claw back the concessions given up over the past four decades and secure decent-paying, secure jobs. While this growing militancy and opposition to the status quo finds no expression in the official election campaign, recent months have witnessed a resurgence of strikes across Canada and internationally. A key feature of these actions is that they have increasingly developed in open rebellion against the nationalist and pro-capitalist trade unions.

The Socialist Equality Party (Canada) is intervening in the election campaign to provide this developing class anger a voice and political perspective. The SEP insists that none of the burning problems confronting working peoplethe combatting of the deadly pandemic, the threat of war, mounting social inequality, or environmental devastationcan be answered without mobilizing the working class on a socialist-internationalist program to break the stranglehold the capitalist elite exercises over all aspects of political, social, and economic life.

We encourage all WSWS readers, workers, and young people, who want to join this fight or learn about the socialist perspective to register here to attend.
In a speech to the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs last month, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for greater emphasis on common prosperity and the need to regulate excessively high incomes and encourage high-income people and enterprises to return more to society.

The remarks came in the wake of moves by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) regime to rein in huge privately-owned corporations, including the tech giants Tencent and Alibaba, food delivery company Meituan, internet ride-hailing company Didi and online education companies TAL Education, New Oriental and Gaotu Techedu.

China's President Xi Jinping speaks during the BRICS Business Council prior the 11th edition of the BRICS Summit, in Brasilia, Brazil, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)

Individuals such as Tencents Tony Ma and Alibabas Jack Ma have amassed huge personal fortunes$US53.1 billion and $45.3 billion respectivelyas their business empires have expanded. Their obscene levels of wealth stand in stark contrast to the 600 million Chinese earning just 1,000 yuan or $154 a month, who according to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang could not afford the rent, let alone other necessities, in a mid-sized Chinese city.

In response to Xis speech, Tencent Holdings has pledged $15 billion for various initiatives related to the environment, education and rural reform, saying the announcement was a response to Chinas wealth redistribution campaign. It said half would be used for sustainable social value innovation and the rest for social charity programs to contribute to common prosperity.

Last week Alibaba promised to provide a similar amount by 2025 to common prosperity in China. Its statement said the money would be used to support micro, small- and medium-sized enterprises, help the digitalisation of underdeveloped areas and expand healthcare capability in less developed areas.

Bloomberg has reported that 73 of Chinas listed firms, both private and state-run, have told their shareholders they will be making contributions to common prosperity.

The corporate announcements are clearly motivated by concerns of further state intervention in their businesses as well as being directed to areas that assist in their further expansion, rather than seriously addressing social inequality. The processes of capitalist restoration presided over by the CCP have opened up a huge and widening gulf between rich and poor in China.

According to the Credit Suisse Research Institute, Chinas richest 1 percent own nearly 31 percent of the countrys wealth, up from 21 percent in 2000. An HSBC report put the size of Chinas middle classes, earning between $15,000 and $75,000, at 340 million people. While $15,000 is relatively modest income by Western standards, it is at least eight times the amount earnt by the 600 million people referred to last year by Premier Li.

President Xis call for common prosperitya term he has increasingly used over the past yearreflects the deep fear in the CCP apparatus of the enormous social tensions being generated by entrenched inequality. He told officials in January that common prosperity was not just an economic issue but a major political matter bearing on the partys foundation for rule, adding: We cannot let an unbridgeable gulf appear between the rich and the poor.

As the figures show, however, the gulf is already unbridgeable. The hundreds of millions of people struggling to survive on less than 1,000 yuan a month live in a world far apart from the multi-billionaires. The very fact that Xi is compelled to call on the countrys super-wealthy oligarchs to sacrifice makes a mockery of the CCPs threadbare but continuing claims to be socialist or communist.

Yao Yang, an economics professor at Peking University, indicated in an email to the New York Times that he supported Xis new orientation, saying China had to be fair and just. He admitted: China is one of the worst countries in terms of redistribution, despite being a socialist country. Public spending is overly concentrated in cities, elite schools and so on.

The pressures bearing down on working people have been heightened with Chinas economic slowdown. The years of 10 percent GDP growth are no longer. Previously, the CCP regarded 8 percent annual growth as necessary to provide sufficient employment to ward off social tensions. Now, however, the growth rate has fallen to 6 percent and shows no sign of recovering.

Xi has no intention of reversing the processes of capitalist restoration initiated in 1978 with Deng Xiaopings pro-market agenda. Deng, who notoriously declared to get rich is glorious, argued that China had to let some get rich first to lift the economy.

According to the state-run Xinhua newsagency, last months meeting of the Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs discussed creating conditions that are more inclusive and fair for people to get better education and improve their development capabilities and providing chances for more people to become wealthy.

Han Wenxiu, deputy director of the Central Financial and Economic Affairs Commission Office, reassured the wealthy that the government would not rob the rich to help the poor. He said the idea was not egalitarianism but reducing the wealth distribution gap between the urban and rural areas and firmly preventing polarisation.

Hans comments were clearly aimed at heading off any panic among the corporate elite and foreign investors by signalling that the shift is largely cosmetic and no significant inroads will be made into their profits.

Pro-market political commentators have nevertheless hit back. The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post, which is owned by Alibaba, last Friday featured Peking University economics professor Zhang Weiying who argued: If we lose faith in market forces and rely on frequent government intervention, it will lead to common poverty.

Xi has nominated the eastern coastal province of Zhejiang as a demonstration zone for his common prosperity program. Its recently released plan sets 2025 as the target for average disposable income per person to reach $11,500up 40 percent from current levels. Economics professor Li Shi, who advised provincial officials on the plan, suggested in a newspaper article that the province could promote collective bargaining to give employees a stronger voice in wage negotiations.

Lis suggestion highlights the contradiction that the CCP regime confronts. Entrenched social inequality is generating class tensions that threaten to explode. But allowing a stronger voice to workers to lift incomes also threatens to trigger working-class struggles under conditions of a slowing economy. As is the case around the world, workers in China are moving into confrontation with capitalist class and the CCP bureaucracy that defends its interests.
Dana Incorporated World Headquarters in Maumee, Ohio [WSWS photo]

After Dana auto parts workers overwhelmingly rejected a concessionary tentative agreement, the UAW and USW have announced they are forcing workers to keep working under the old contract indefinitely.

The UAWs first official statement following the vote reads in its entirety: The Tentative Agreement (TA) was rejected and were continuing to work under a day-to-day extension. We are starting to meet with the locals to identify issues.

Workers at Dana plants across the country are livid that the UAW and USW are making them stockpile parts under the old contract.

One worker at Fort Wayne, Indiana, told the World Socialist Web Site: This is BS. What is there to work on except to strike? This speaks volumes about what the unions think of us. It just reaffirms what we all think, which is theyre conspiring with the company to try and give us a sell-out deal. They just want to keep our dues coming in to pay their absurd salaries.

To add insult to injury, workers at Fort Wayne and Paris, Tennessee, received notice that they are mandated for work on Saturday and possibly Sunday. Every hour that the unions force workers to stay on the job is an extra cushion for the corporation. One worker from St. Clair, Michigan, said the UAW is forcing workers to stockpile so much product that the parts are filling up the plant. A worker in Paris, Tennessee, said, Even though they are running out of material and cant run presses, theyre still forcing us to work without rest.

There are growing concerns among workers that the unions are conspiring secretly behind their backs to override the no vote and impose the same contract workers just rejected.

Workers at several different plants contacted the World Socialist Web Site to report that local unions were convening meetings that they feared were intended to discuss forcing through the same TA. One local union official reportedly told workers in Danville, Kentucky, that the company had refused to negotiate any further. The worker said, We figure the meeting is to force the contract through, and explained that workers were not allowed at the meeting.

Another worker in Fort Wayne told the WSWS that the UAW, USW and Dana held a conference call Wednesday to plan their next move against the workers.

On Wednesday, the World Socialist Web Site contacted USW Communications Director Jess Kamm Broomell, who claimed she did not know the result of the vote. Kamm Broomell requested written questions but then did not reply to them.

The WSWS also contacted UAW Public Relations Director Brian Rothenberg, who said workers reports of meetings between the UAW and Dana were factually inaccurate, but provided no additional information. The WSWS then wrote Rothenberg the following questions:

Is a strike deadline set? If so, what is the date. If not, why not? Will the UAW stop mandating workers overtime? Have negotiations resumed? If so, what specific demands is the UAW raising this time? Is there a maximum number of days the old contract will be extended day-to-day, or is the extension indefinite?

Rothenberg did not respond.

There is every reason to suspect that the UAW and USW may attempt to force through the TA despite the no vote, or else force a revote on a new TA that is substantially the same as the old one.

Workers in St. Clair, Michigan, report that Dana demanded the UAW call a re-vote after 97 percent of workers at the plant voted no. In Lima, Ohio, eyewitnesses report that UAW Local 1765 President PJ Meyer became hysterical and assaulted a worker who had asked whether the UAW was planning to override their no vote. The worker apparently touched a sensitive nerve. Workers in Lima report that Meyer has returned to work, implying he was not punished.

Workers are getting badly hurt as a result of the UAW and USWs decision to extend the old contract. In Fort Wayne, witnesses tell the World Socialist Web Site that a worker slipped on oily ground and banged her head hard against the concrete floor. This injury should not have happened, because workers should not be working at all after the old contract expired on August 18. The UAW and USW have transformed the old slogan no contract, no work into a new one: no contract, more work!

On Tuesday, the Dana Workers Rank-and-File Committee issued an open letter to the UAW and USW. The letter reads, You, the UAW and USW, are engaged in an ongoing conspiracy with the company against the working class. Our generals are making us dig trenches for the enemy.

The open letter concludes by demanding the UAW and USW: (1) immediately refuse all company requests for mandated overtime, (2) call strike votes by Friday at plants that have not yet held such authorizations, (3) announce any strike will involve all the plants together, (4) set strike pay at 100% of workers wages, and (5) livestream all future meetings with the company and allow rank-and-file representatives to attend and supervise such meetings.

Workers are raising their heads after decades of betrayals to confront not just Dana but the forces that stand behind Dana: the Big Three, the banks that fund them, the network of wealthy shareholders and ultimately the entire corporate establishment that runs the two parties and the government. Danas treatment of its workers parallels the treatment of the entire working class by the ruling elite during the coronavirus pandemic. In the US as in almost every capitalist country, the ruling class is sending workers children back into schools as the Delta variant soars and has sent parents to work with no regard for their health, just to fuel corporate profits. A united movement of the working class against massive levels of inequality is a historical necessity.

To unite with Dana workers in a common fight, join the Dana Workers Rank-and-File Committee. Email danawrfc@gmail.com or text (248) 6020936.
The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) has launched a campaign to defeat a series of anti-democratic laws that were rushed through the Australian parliament on August 26. Under conditions of an almost complete media blackout, Prime Minister Scott Morrisons Liberal-National Coalition government, fully backed by the Labor Party opposition, pushed the bills through both houses of parliament in a little over 24 hours.

The unprecedented measures demand that political parties, without parliamentary seats, must treble their membership lists from 500 to 1,500. This will affect 36 registered parties, including the SEP, which now must submit a new list of members in less than three months, under conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns across various states. All 36 parties will be deregistered if they do not meet the new requirements.

An SEP public meeting in 2017

The SEP has begun a determined campaign to defeat these laws and for the repeal of any restriction on parties and individuals who seek to contest the elections. On Sunday 19 September, the SEP is holding an online public meeting to discuss its campaign and how to advance this fight. Click here to register.

At the same time, the SEP is appealing to all supporters and readers to become an SEP electoral member today, join the campaign and help the party retain its registration to defeat this attack.

The following comments are the first in a series of interviews and statements from electoral members opposing the new measures and voicing their determination to ensure the SEP remains a registered political party

* * * *

Alan Sutton, a warehouse worker from Moruya on the far south coast of New South Wales (NSW), was shocked by the swift passage of the new legislation and urged workers and young people to speak out against it.

Alan Sutton

I only came to know about the laws because I read about them on the WSWS, he said. I thought it was outrageous and so I wrote to my member of parliament to complain. But I realised that the electoral laws had already gone through parliament, despite the fact I got onto it very quickly.

Clearly they want to stifle any dissent. You cannot rely on the mainstream media to report anything. The WSWS is one of the very, very few places where you can find out about important things like this, he said.

I sent emails out with the web site articles to several people I know. One texted me back and said she was very angry and was writing to complain to some or another parliamentarian. She has agreed to support the campaign against these laws by signing up as an electoral member.

Sutton, who became an electoral member in 2020, said there was a parallel between the Morrison governments new election laws and its recent decision to block public access to the National Cabinet minutes.

The pandemic is giving them the opportunity to be anti-democratic, to hide things from view, to exclude from the ballot any dissenting voices, so that you can only vote for the established parties that are in parliament.

But I think it is more than the pandemic. The pandemic has exacerbated thingsits the economic questions, the inequality. The inequality in society was there before the pandemic, but it was getting worse, and now its worse again. Thats the big issue.

Dr. Melvin Tan, an educator with 27 years experience and a long-standing electoral member of the SEP from Melbourne, said the new election laws discriminate against smaller political parties and were an attack on working people.

Dr. Melvin Tan

I believe the government is doing this to eliminate or sideline other political parties and views from having a presence or voice in the Australian political landscape. This is a disservice to democracy, he said.

The media and government are happy to keep this change under the radar, because they know it is unfair, deceitful and undemocratic. The ruling political parties do not want any honest political critique on how poorly the pandemic is being managed by the federal or state governments. These laws serve to restrict political commentary.

I believe in the importance of a party that speaks and acts in the interest of workers. The Labor Party claims to be the political representative of Australian workers, but it doesnt want to be exposed by other political parties that are, in fact, truer to that proposition.

Tan called on workers, young people and students to join the party: I recommend being an SEP electoral member to support a workers party that provides Australians with an alternative political perspective to the major parties. I believe that the work of the SEP is important and worthy of support.

Lance, who lives near Newcastle in NSW, became an electoral member in 2017, when he was 19 years old. A former student, he was recently employed in a cafe, but is now unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new laws are an attempt by the Australian government to stop the freedom of the people from electing who they want to be in government. They are an attack on peoples rights to choose political representatives, he said.

The ruling elite is aware that the general public is very hostile toward the two-party system. Regular people are looking for an alternative to the major parties. The elite is trying to restrict and reduce the political options, because it is scared that workers are turning away from the established parties and will look for another party to protect their interests.

Scott Molloy, a network technician at the University of Newcastle, north of Sydney, said: These bills are directly subtracting from the democratic rights of the individual to make an informed vote.

Anyone worth their political kudos has long ago realised the writing on the wall for the existing duopoly. The passage of these bills shows that the two main parties are both on the same team, and can only present the illusion of choice between them.

It also shows they are deeply scared for their political future, that of growing numbers of dissatisfied voters, which begins in smaller parties. By seeking to turn these oppositional parties into no-named options, they hope to assuage their concerns. It is an attempt to defang the people before they use their fangs.

David Beeman is a semi-retired maritime worker, electoral member and long-time supporter of the SEP, and its forerunner, the Socialist Labour League (SLL). He met the SLL and backed its struggle against the anti-working-class Hawke and Keating Labor governments from 1983 until 1996.

David Beeman

This legislation is totally anti-democratic and designed to stop smaller parties from being represented. It is absolutely counter to democracy. You should be able to call yourself whatever you like and be put on a ballot.

I also oppose the fact that people already have to hand over their name and address to the government [for the party to be registered]. Its supposed to be a secret ballot, but they dont seem to care about that democratic aspect of it.

Theres no doubt that every measure that is being enacted now, whether its so-called controlling of the pandemic, or unemployment or housing, is bound up with increasing forms of authoritarianism. It has nothing to do with the majority of peoples interests, but everything to do with generating profits for a tiny number of people.

Beeman said government responses to COVID-19 exposed their priority of making profits over people's health, welfare and security.

Workers are treated like cannon fodder and are being driven back to work to generate profits. Living with COVID is absolutely homicidal and really the most careless attitude towards peoples lives, he added.

Theres no future for the working class in voting for the two-party system, Beeman said, and urged people to join the campaign and become SEP electoral members.

Whats needed is the building of a party capable of dealing with these huge tasksthe pandemic or climate change or social housingall of these issues. Its critical that people understand that socialism is the only way forward. Otherwise, theres really only a barbaric future, such as the ruthlessness you can see with the pandemic.
Ford's Flat Rock Assembly plant south of Detroit has been closed through Friday in response to the leaking of 1,000-3,000 gallons of benzene into the local sewer system. A state of emergency was declared last Thursday for the city of Flat Rock, as well as for Wayne and Monroe counties. Voluntary evacuations are being urged for residents in more than 1,100 homes in the surrounding area.

The leak recalls the public health disaster in Flint, Michigan, after the city's 100,000 residents were exposed to lead-contaminated water when city officials switched the municipal water supply to the Flint River. The Flint River has been heavily contaminated by decades of industrial activity by General Motors and other auto companies.

The leak also compounds the public health disaster in Michigan from the coronavirus pandemic, where it has officially claimed 21,000 lives. Wayne County, which includes Flat Rock as well as Detroit, has recorded over 5,000 deaths, the highest number of any county in the state.

The leak was first indicated by residents who reported smelling fumes in the community as early as Tuesday, August 31. Ongoing investigations by EGLE (The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy) and other state and federal agencies have determined that the gas has spread through four square miles of the sewers.

Benzene is a chemical that is a colorless or light yellow liquid at room temperature. It has a sweet odor and is highly flammable. According to the CDC, inhaling high levels of benzene can lead to drowsiness, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, headaches, tremors, confusion, and unconsciousness. At the highest levels of exposure death can occur.

Long-term exposure to benzene causes harmful effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive bleeding and can affect the immune system, increasing the chance of an infection. Women who breathed high levels of benzene for many months have been found to have irregular menstrual periods and a decrease in the size of their ovaries.

The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has also determined that benzene causes cancer in humans. Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene in the air can cause leukemia, which is cancer of the blood-forming organs.

Potential exposure areas in the city have been split up into two zones. In zone 1 residents have been encouraged to evacuate. Zone 2 remains under investigation for exposure. Residents living between the two zones have expressed frustration at the confusing division of the two areas, which are not physically connected and leave a gap which covers a residential area and the site of two public schools.

Caption for image: Highlighted areas indicate the locations of the Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant, and zones 1 and 2. Screenshot taken from Google Maps

Our concern is, how do you do a cutoff? said Flat Rock resident Amy Gomez to the Detroit Free Press. Were literally like six houses away (from the cutoff). Every day the zone keeps expanding. So are we going to be asked to evacuate in a couple days?

The source of the leak was traced to the local Ford Flat Rock Assembly Plant, which produces Mustangs. A statement released by Bob Holycross, vice president of sustainability, environment and safety engineering for Ford, admitted that Ford discovered what originally looked to be a relatively small leak in a pipe that carries gasoline used to fuel vehicles built at the plant. We shut down the fuel pipe, called in experts to remove gas from a containment tank and the primary storage tank, and notified officials of what we found. We believed then that the leak was contained to our property Today [September 3], we determined that the scale of the fuel leak was much larger, and that Ford is the likely source of the problem in Flat Rock.

The Flat Rock plant had been closed for the Labor Day weekend and Ford is keeping production shut down at the plant until the end of the week.

Flat Rock Assembly Plant workers, many of whom live in the nearby area, as well as many other residents, have had to evacuate their homes. Authorities have stated that it could take weeks for response teams to determine how widespread the exposure is and when it will be safe for residents to return home.

We urge Michiganders in the affected areas to take swift action and evacuate their homes, said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at MDHHS, in a news release. You may not be able to see or smell the vapors that could put your health at risk, and we recommend everyone in the affected area consider relocating until further notice and we can confirm it is safe to return to your homes.

Dr. Khaldun added that theres also no known specific treatment for benzene exposure and, really, the best thing is to remove someone from the exposure risk. Responding to questions from city residents Dr. Khaldun stated that if it were her, she would evacuate.

Contradicting the urgent note from Dr. Khaldun, Elizabeth Hertel, state health and human services department director, stated on Sunday, We dont believe there is any imminent danger to residents at this time, however we are acting out of an abundance of caution.

Adding further confusion, Kory Groetsch, who is the environmental public health director for the department of health and human services, has said it is a voluntary, recommended evacuation.

I can bring half the knowledge, which is the science, but the other half is how people feel about it in the community, how you process risk, Groetsch said.

I just want to know whether we should evacuate, Darrell Gore, a Flat Rock resident, told the Detroit Free Press. Were in Zone 1, we're in the hotbed. I have two young children. I want to do whats safe for myself and my family. If its voluntary, what would they do in this situation? I mean, Im not really getting clear answers on whether or not we should stay or go.

Students at River Heights Academy Charter School, which is located in the center of the affected area, will be attending the opening of classes at the Wayne County Community College Downriver Campus, which is located approximately 10 miles to the north of the affected area in Flat Rock. River Heights Academy Charter School plans to begin classes as scheduled on Tuesday, September 7.

However, there are five other schools in the nearby Flat Rock school district. Four of these schools opened for in-person education on Tuesday. This is despite the fact that all four of the schools are less than a mile from either zones 1 or 2. District officials claimed on Sunday that all of the school buildings were tested and did not show any signs of exposure to the gas leak.
New Zealands largest city, Auckland, remains in a strict level 4 lockdown, with schools and the vast majority of businesses closed, to suppress an outbreak of the Delta variant of COVID-19. The rest of the country, however, dropped to level 2 restrictions yesterday, meaning schools, public buildings and most businesses have reopened. The reopening of schools, in particular, risks spreading the virus if it is present in the community.

The entire country went into a lockdown on August 18 after a man tested positive for the highly infectious coronavirus. As of today, testing had detected a total of 868 cases associated with the outbreak. Of these, 264 people have recovered. Almost all the cases are in Auckland, with 9 active cases in Wellington, the capital.

COVID-19 'Alert Level 4' highway sign near Wellington. Picture taken April 23, 2020. (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

One person has died in the outbreak, a Maori woman in her 90s, and 31 people remain in hospital, five in intensive care.

Daily case numbers, which peaked at 85 on August 29, are now trending downwards as a result of the lockdown. There were 13 new cases reported today, 15 yesterday and 21 the day before.

New Zealands Labour Party-led government is still officially committed to a strategy of eliminating the Delta variant. That this can be done was demonstrated last month when China stamped out an outbreak using public health measures including mass testing and restrictions on movement and business activity.

Auckland University professor Shaun Hendy, who has modelled the spread of the virus, told a parliamentary committee yesterday that the estimated effective reproduction, or R, number for the outbreak had fallen to about 0.4. A number below 1 indicates that the average infected person is not passing on the virus to someone else. Hendy said elimination could be achieved within weeks, provided the level 4 lockdown in Auckland is maintained.

The removal of most restrictions outside Auckland, however, has significantly increased the risks. Thousands of workers, mostly truck drivers, are permitted to travel across the Auckland boundary. In Australia, truck drivers have spread the virus between different states.

The government only announced on Monday that these workers need to be tested for the virus. After a backlash from the freight industry, the government extended the deadline for workers to get tested to Thursday next week.

The reopening of schools and childcare centres outside Auckland, with virtually no restrictions, poses a major danger. With children not eligible for vaccination, schools have been one of the major centres for the spread of the virus internationally. In New Zealand, 121 children have tested positive for the Delta variant in the last three weeks.

Epidemiologist Michael Baker told Radio NZ he was most concerned about the situation in schools. Unlike businesses and public transport, there is no requirement for face coverings in schools and no limits on indoor gathering sizes. Baker said children are missing out on one of these essential protections [masks] if we do get an outbreak. And of course they are great at transmitting the virus to their families.

The unions have not criticised the reopening policy. The Post-Primary Teachers Association and NZEI Te Riu Roa (the primary union) are simply echoing the governments statements that masks are recommended but not required. Anecdotal reports suggest that many teachers and children are not wearing masks.

The fact that less than a third of people aged over 12 are fully vaccinated increases the dangers. This includes workers in highly-exposed jobs who continue to work during the lockdown, such as public transport, meat processing and supermarket workers. Dozens of supermarkets have been listed by the Ministry of Health as potential exposure sites visited by someone with the virus.

Severely overcrowded and understaffed hospitals also pose a risk. On Saturday, a patient was admitted to a general ward at Middlemore Hospital in South Auckland. He was only tested and found to be positive for COVID-19 after spending the night in a hospital room with three other patients, who reported that he had symptoms of the virus.

Even after the patient had been swabbed, he was not immediately taken out of the shared room because there were no isolation spaces on the ward, according to the Ministry of Health. Twenty-nine hospital staff were temporarily stood down while they and the patients were tested.

Authorities yesterday said they did not know how the man, and eight of his family members, had caught the virus. There are a total of 30 unlinked or mystery cases, about 3 percent of known infections. Epidemiologists have warned that there should be zero unlinked cases before any easing of restrictions in Auckland.

The outbreak has placed immense pressure on working people. The government is providing hundreds of millions of dollars in so-called wage subsidies, which are given to businesses whose revenue has been impacted by the lockdown. Employers remain free to cut wages and sack workers. Many casual workers, such as relief teachers, have gone entirely without pay.

In an attempt to repair its image amid soaring grocery prices, supermarket chain Foodstuffs, whose workers receive close to the minimum wage, announced a temporary 10 percent pay bonus during the lockdown. The company, which is part of a duopoly in New Zealand, made a profit of $205 million in the year to March.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Social Development figures show the number of people receiving a benefit increased by 4,578 in the first week of the level 4 lockdown, the biggest weekly rise since the MarchApril lockdown in 2020. There are 358,000 people relying on welfareabout 8.7 percent of the working-age population.

Stuff reported on Tuesday that food insecurity has worsened, with the ministry receiving over 40,400 emergency food grant requests in the week ending August 27, more than double what it received at the same time last year.

The billions of dollars being spent by the government will be recouped from the working class through intensified austerity measures. A pay freeze has already been imposed across the public sector, including teachers and healthcare workers. This month, in the middle of the outbreak, emergency benefits for migrant workers were axed.

Even if the current NZ outbreak is suppressed, every country remains at risk while governments throughout the world lift restrictions and declare that the population must live with the virus. Millions have died as a result of such policies, which are aimed at keeping businesses open and profitable.

The Ardern government has come under pressure to move away from its elimination strategy from sections of business and the political establishment. Opposition National Party leader Judith Collins recently urged the government to end nationwide lockdowns as a policy when 70 to 75 percent of the eligible population are vaccinated. A similar policy has been adopted in Australia, where federal and state governments are preparing to ease restrictions in the middle of a catastrophic outbreak, brought about by the refusal to impose a strict lockdown.
The fascistic demonstrations in support of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro on September 7, Brazils Independence Day, made clear to the world that Latin Americas largest country is threatened with an authoritarian coup.

The recognition in Brazilian and international newspapers of the imminence of this threat is unprecedented in the 35 years since the fall of the bloody military regime that came to power in a US-backed coup in 1964 and ruled Brazil for more than two decades.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro poses for photos with the soldiers during annual military exercises by the Navy, Army and Air Force, in Formosa, Brazil, Monday, Aug. 16, 2021. (AP Photo/Eraldo Peres)

September 7 marked a new stage in Bolsonaros drive to establish a dictatorial regime in Brazil, which he has advanced since his first day in power. It is the culmination of a series of moves in recent months that have included the unprecedented dismissal of the military command and a campaign demanding the introduction of printed ballots to lay the groundwork for charging that Brazils next presidential elections in 2022 will have been rigged if he is defeatedas now appears likelyat the polls.

Tuesdays events were prepared over months by Bolsonaro and his clique of fascistic civilian and military advisors, and directly coordinated with extreme right-wing allies in the US and internationally. With the organized support of far-right groups, police commanders, business associations and other reactionary institutions, crowds composed of the most reactionary elements of the Brazilian middle class, off-duty police and other backward elements were brought to the streets with the stated goal of legitimizing Bolsonaros assumption of absolute power.

The main banners raised by the far-right protesters called for immediate military intervention, the overthrow of the Supreme Court (STF) and the criminalization of communism in Brazil. Posters and t-shirts worn by the demonstrators had slogans in both Portuguese and English, signaling their identification with the far right in the US.

Bolsonaro participated in the two main events, in Sao Paulo and Brasilia, where he gave rabid speeches after staging helicopter flights over the demonstrations. In Brasilia, where he spoke alongside his vice president, Gen. Hamilton Mourao, and cabinet ministers, Bolsonaro defined the day as an ultimatum to all three branches of the Brazilian government.

He turned his most violent attacks against STF minister Alexandre de Moraes, who is conducting inquiries into threats to the constitutional order that involve the president himself and his supporters. Bolsonaro stated at the event in Sao Paulo that he will no longer comply with any decision by Mr. Alexandre de Moraes. And, in the language of a mobster, he exclaimed: I want to tell the scoundrels that I will never be arrested!

Bolsonaro explicitly threatened the overthrow of the judiciary system, demanding that either its president, Luiz Fux, brings Moraes to heel, or this power may suffer what we do not want.

These speeches unequivocally legitimize violent actions by his fascist supporters. During the day, there were serious concerns over a potential invasion of the supreme court building by Bolsonaros supporters in Brasilia, emulating the Capitol siege during the January 6 coup attempt in the United States.

On Monday night, on the eve of the demonstration, a horde of protesters broke through Military Police barriers and entered the Esplanada, or the outdoor mall between the ministry buildings, claiming they would storm the STF the next day.

The lack of any police effort to contain the invasion, as well as the officers refusal to search the demonstrators, set off an alarm in the upper echelons of the Brazilian state. Concerned that an attack would take place without any police interference, the STF discussed calling in the Armed Forces to defend its headquarters from fascistic forces incited by the president of the republic.

To interpret the fact that the invasion of the STF was ultimately not carried out as a reason to dismiss the serious threats raised by this episode would be an act of criminal political complacency. But such complacency abounds within Bolsonaros supposed opposition, the Workers Party (PT) and its petty-bourgeois pseudo-left satellites. The PT, which has curried favor with the military and urged confidence in its constitutionalist loyalties, will work only to politically disarm workers and prevent any resistance to a coup.

The Morenoite website Izquierda Diario, which had previously claimed that last Januarys storming of the US Capitol was not a coup and that Trump had no real intention of remaining in power, today strives to deny the unquestionable relation between the January 6 coup in the United States and the September 7 coup rehearsal in Brazil.

An article titled Protest in Brasilia: too far from the Capitol and from Bolsonaros predictions, by the Brazilian Morenoite leader Andre Barbieri, seeks not only to diminish the significance of January 6 in the US, but to say that what happened in Brazil was even less important. The article concludes by saying that Bolsonaro has no possibility to apply coups given the enormous division in distinct segments of the ruling class, the opposition of other institutions of the bourgeoisie and the antipathy of US imperialism headed by the Democratic Party.

The dismissal of dictatorial threats in Brazil by the Morenoites, based on the crudest pragmatic calculations about divisions within the ruling class, or the supposed distaste of the Democratic Partythe same party that was in power in 1964for coups, confirms the assessment made by the World Socialist Web Site that with its dismissal of the January 6 coup, they were not only anesthetizing and politically disarming US workers who face a continuing threat of fascistic dictatorship, but they are setting the stage for advancing this policy in other countries.

The connection between the events unfolding in Brazil and the coup promoted by Donald Trump in the US is glaringly obvious.

Jair Bolsonaro has carefully studied the gospel of Donald Trump, inspired by his actions in the 2020 US election to claim a threat of electoral fraud in Brazil, thereby laying the groundwork for a coup. But there is also direct coordination between the Brazilian fascists and their allies in the United States and elsewhere. As was revealed by the WSWS, Eduardo Bolsonaro, son of the Brazilian president, directly participated in the preparations for the invasion of the Capitol in Washington on January 6.

Serving as an intermediary between Bolsonaros plans in Brazil and the international far right, Eduardo Bolsonaro participated in meetings in recent weeks with promoters of the January 6 coup and representatives of the fascist Alternative for Germany.

In the second week of August, Eduardo promoted his fathers coup maneuvers over the printed ballot at Mike Lindells Cyber Symposium. And just three days before September 7, Eduardo inaugurated the Brazilian edition of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), which had the virtual participation of Donald Trump Jr. and the presence of Trumps former adviser Jason Miller, who met personally with Jair Bolsonaro while in Brazil.

The development of these fascist forces around the world and their promotion to important positions in governments of different countries is not an arbitrary process. Its objective roots lie in the profound crisis of world capitalism that has been radically exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The explosion of social inequality and the capitalist policies of normalization of social murder are fundamentally incompatible with democratic forms of government.

This is being graphically demonstrated in Brazil, where the billionaires have doubled their share of national income during the pandemic, while tens of millions of Brazilian workers were thrown into poverty. Recorded COVID-19 deaths are approaching 600,000, while the spread of the Delta variant is fueling a devastating new wave of infections and deaths.

This same crisis is driving an international wave of working class struggle, with strikes that are challenging the decades-long domination by the corporatist union bureaucracies and mass protests against the bourgeoisies murderous response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bolsonaros turn toward dictatorship fundamentally represents a capitalist reaction against the class struggle that is explosively unfolding in Brazil.

Against the coordination of fascistic forces in the US, Brazil and around the world in the promotion of coups and brutal new dictatorships, the international working class must unite across national boundaries in a common struggle for socialism. The most urgent question confronting workers and youth determined to fight against a return to dictatorship, the murderous response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the deepening of the social crisis is the building of a new revolutionary leadership based on the program of socialist internationalism. This requires the construction of a Brazilian section of the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI).
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during a media conference at the end of an EU-Canada summit at the European Council building in Brussels, Tuesday, June 15, 2021. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Far-right protesters threw gravel and small rocks at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at an election campaign stop Monday in the southwestern Ontario city of London. Since August 27, when Trudeau was forced to cancel a campaign appearance in Bolton, Ontario, after a virulent right-wing mob threatened him with acts of violence, the Liberal leaders campaign appearances have been dogged by anti-vaxx, anti-mask protesters and other far-right elements.

Typically the protests have included no more than a few dozen right-wing extremists. Some have carried signs accusing Trudeau of treason and communism or chanted Lock him up!, a slogan popularized by supporters of Donald Trump, the fascistic former US president.

Media observers agree the protests mark something new in Canadian politics. In two decades covering federal politics, I have never seen the kind of frenzied contempt directed at a politician as that aimed at Justin Trudeau at campaign events in Ontario on Friday, wrote John Iveson, a right-wing National Post columnist who can hardly be accused of exaggerated sympathy for Trudeau, following the cancelled Bolton rally. Theres no doubt that had the 200 or so protesters in Bolton, a town 50 kilometres northwest of Toronto, been able to get their hands on the Liberal leader, they would have torn him limb from limb, such was the manic rage.

On September 1, five days after the Bolton events, unruly protests denouncing COVID-19 vaccines and all public health measures to counter the deadly virus were held outside hospitals in more than a dozen cities across Canada. Led and dominated by the far-right, the protests turned violent in British Columbia, where a health care worker was assaulted.

The leaders of all five parties with representation in the last parliament have rushed to condemn far-right violence and tout their democratic bonafides. Conservative leader Erin OToole had to explicitly distance his party from the Bolton protest, many of whose participants wore pro-Conservative Party T-shirts, and announce that party volunteers who had joined the anti-Trudeau-rally would be excluded from future campaign activities.

The key question these events raise for working people is how is it that far-right forces, mobilized by the likes of the fascist Proud Boys, La Meute, and the III Percenters and without broad popular support, can be playing such a prominent role in a Canadian election. The answer to this question is two-fold. Firstly, the far-right has been emboldened by the increasing support it and its chauvinist, anti-social, and authoritarian views are receiving in Canada and internationally from sections of the ruling class, its political representatives, and the military-security apparatus. Secondly, as the result of the systematic decades-long suppression of the class struggle by the trade unions and the social-democratic NDP politicians, the working class has been prevented from politically asserting itself through mass struggle and advancing its own program to answer the deepening capitalist crisisincluding the ruling class ruinous profits before lives pandemic policy.

The responsibility of the political establishment

No politically literate worker can take OTooles attempts to distance the Conservatives from the far-right protests seriously. Canadas Conservatives, like their US Republican and British Conservative allies, have long-established and burgeoning ties to the social conservative and libertarian right. Broad sections of the Conservative Party were Trump enthusiasts. Ontario Premier Doug Ford styled himself as the Trump of the North during his 2018 provincial election campaign, and sections of the party explicitly endorsed Trumps economic nationalism and anti-immigrant chauvinism.

A former minister in Stephen Harpers government of austerity, war and reaction, OToole won the Conservative leadership by mobilizing the anti-abortion, anti-gay religious right-wing of the party and deriding his chief opponent, Harpers former Defence and Foreign Minister, Peter McKay, as a closet Liberal. During the current election, OToole and his Conservatives have made a calculated appeal to the anti-vaxx movement.

Maxime Bernier, who now heads the Peoples Party of Canada, which openly patterns itself after Alterative for Germany (AFD) and other European neo-fascist parties, came within a hairs breadth of winning the Conservative Party leadership in 2017. After leading every preceding round of voting, Bernier lost the race for party leader to Andrew Scheer, himself a devotee of the far-right Catholic group, the Opus Dei, on the 14th ballot. Peoples Party activists have appeared prominently at the anti-Trudeau protests.

Conrad Black, the failed media mogul, published a column in his former Canadian flagship, the National Post, last Saturday that endorsed both OToole and Bernier under the title Erin OTooles platform is imaginative, but Maxime Bernier is the most impressive leader.

Trudeau has sought to turn the far-right protests to his political advantage by painting his party and government as democratic bulwarks. Nothing could be further from the truth. Like the progressive parties of government of the other imperialist powers, Canadas Liberals long ago abandoned any program of social reform. Instead, they have provided austerity to working people and massive tax cuts to big business and the rich, pursued rearmament, aggression and war in the name of human rights, and instituted sweeping attacks on democratic rights that lay the groundwork for authoritarian rule. The Trudeau Liberal government has further expanded the draconian powers of the national-security apparatus, routinely criminalizes worker struggles, and has developed contingency plans to deploy the military against native protests.

Trudeau, especially when Trump occupied the White House, has touted the liberal, democrats French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel as his closest international allies. Macron has stoked Islamophobia, connived with Marine Le Pens fascist Rassemblement National, and ordered the police and military to brutally repress the Yellow Vest protests against social inequality. Merkels Grand Coalition facilitated the emergence of the fascist Alternative for Germany as the official opposition in parliament, and has adopted its key policies on refugees and the coronavirus pandemic.

The truest measure of Trudeaus claims to be a staunch defender of democracy is the close working relationship his government had with the far-right Trump administration throughout its four years in office. With the full-throated backing of Canadas ruling elite, the Liberal government bent over backwards to accommodate itself to Trump, so as to preserve and expand the Canada-US economic and military-security partnership. This included intimate collaboration with the fascistic US Immigration and Customs Enforcement to round up and deport immigrants from war-torn countries and impoverished parts of Latin America. It also involved the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement in line with Trumps strategy of making it a more explicit US-led economic bloc to wage trade and strategic conflict with China and Russia.

For a half-year, beginning with Trumps June 1, 2020 attempt to invoke the Insurrection Act to deploy the military to crush mass protests against police violence, Trudeau and the Canadian government remained conspicuously silent about Trumps very public attempts to subvert the American constitution and establish a presidential dictatorship. After the events of January 6, 2021, when a fascist mob stormed the US Capitol in a bid to stop the certification of Biden as president and enable Trump to hold onto power, Trudeau and the Liberal government followed the example of the Democrats in the US by downplaying the coup attempt, and covering up the role substantial sections of the Republican Party and military-security apparatus played in facilitating and organizing it.

For like reasonsthat is out of fear that the exposure of the growth of the far right within the putrefying institutions of capitalist democracy would galvanize working class opposition Trudeau, his government and the corporate media were at pains to trivialize military reservist Corey Hurrens July 2020 attempt to assassinate the prime minister. Although there is strong evidence of significant support for, and an active far-right presence within the Canadian military, the political establishment united to bury the affair.

In pursuit of Canadas predatory global interests, Ottawa and the Canadian Armed Forces, under Liberal and Conservative governments alike, routinely collaborate with far-right forces. This was true in 2004, when Canadian imperialism collaborated with the remnants of the Tonton Macoutes in ousting Haitis democratically elected president Jean-Bertrand Aristide; and remains true in Ukraine where Canada helped sponsor a fascist-spearheaded coup in Kiev in 2014 and now is helping integrate the political descendants of the Nazi collaborator Stepan Bandera and his Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists into the Ukrainian military and security forces.

At home, ruling circles have also cultivated fascistic forces, with the aim of intimidating working class opposition to savage attacks on their jobs and living standards. Last year, management at the Federated Cooperatives Ltd. oil refinery in Regina, Saskatchewan, deployed far-right United We Roll activists against picket lines established by locked-out workers and their supporters.

Over the past eighteen months, every Canadian government, from Horgans NDP in British Columbia to the hard-right Kenney government in Alberta and Trudeaus Liberals at the federal level have responded to the pandemic by systematically prioritizing corporate profits over saving workers lives, resulting in 27,000 officially recorded COVID-19 deaths. If excess deaths are taken into account, the true figure is closer to 50,000. In promoting their homicidal back-to-work/back-to-school campaign and the elimination of all social-distancing, Canadas ruling class, as in the US and Europe, has increasingly relied on anti-vaxxers and other anti-science far-right forces as their shock troops.

It is within this fetid political environment that far-right thugs feel emboldened to threaten Trudeau, and exploit the distress of ruined small businesspeople and other backward layers of the middle class by denouncing all public health measures.

The political suppression of the working class

But this is only part of the story. The key factor in maintaining the political environment in which far-right forces can act with virtual impunity is the political suppression of the working class. The New Democrats and trade unions have systematically sabotaged every expression of independent working class opposition to the ruling elites policies of war abroad and attacks on living standards at home, and its homicidal profits before lives strategy in response to the pandemic.

The New Democrats have spent the past two years propping up the Trudeau Liberal minority government, ensuring that it had a parliamentary majority to implement its massive $650 billion bailout of big business and the rich. The trade unions have enforced the ruling class policy of keeping the economy open through one devastating pandemic wave after another; systematically isolated every working class struggle that has erupted; and deepened their collaboration with the government and big business to make Canadian capitalism more competitive. By preventing the working class from mobilizing its social power to impose a science-based pandemic policy that puts people before profit, and unifying its myriad struggles into a counter-offensive against capitalist austerity, lay-offs, and wage and benefit cuts, the unions have left the field open for far-right forces to assume political prominence completely disproportionate to their minuscule popular support.

This state of affairs can and will change swiftly, provided that the most class conscious workers and youth, organized in a revolutionary party, wage a determined struggle to mobilize the independent political power of the working class and win it to a socialist program. Recent months have witnessed a rapid upsurge of working class struggle in Canada and internationallyan upsurge characterized by a rebellion against the unions and a determination to claw back concessions given up over the past four decades. This wave of strikes and job actions found its most conscious expression to date in the formation by Volvo Trucks workers in Virginia of the Volvo Workers Rank-and-File Committee, which fights to unify autoworkers on an international basis and mobilize the working class in opposition to the corrupt, pro-employer and nationalist trade unions. The committee strengthened the self-confidence of the workers, helping to unify the six-week strike in Virginia with Volvo Cars workers in Belgium, who waged their own wildcat job action against a company-union effort to lengthen the work week.

The lessons of these struggles must inform working people seeking to combat the threat posed by the far-right. The decisive question is to intensify the struggle to mobilize the working class independently of all representatives of the capitalist class, including the New Democrats and trade unions, which act as the chief obstacles to such a fight. Workers should resolutely reject any attempt to align them with the likes of NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, Unifor President Jerry Dias, and the Canadian Labour Congress, the very leaders and organizations whose smothering of working class opposition has emboldened the far-right. Dressed up as means to unite democrats in opposition to fascism, these rotten alliances invariably become new mechanisms for the unions and left parties to prevent working people from asserting their own independent class interests in the struggle against the far-right. They are modelled on the disastrous popular front politics pursued by the Stalinist Communist Parties in the 1930s, which led to the bloody defeat of the Spanish revolution, disarmed the French working class following the 1936 general strike, and paved the way for World War II and all of its associated atrocities.

Workers should instead intensify their efforts to build rank-and-file committees to coordinate and organize workers struggles in every workplace. This must be combined with a political fight for a socialist and internationalist program aimed at putting an end to the capitalist profit system and the threats of militarism, social inequality, authoritarianism and fascism to which it gives rise. This struggle must find its highest expression in the building of the Socialist Equality Party as the mass socialist party of the Canadian working class.
Yesterday, Britains Conservative government pulled a vote planned by the Labour Party on scrapping the 20-a-week increase to Universal Credit brought in last year. The uplift is due to end on October 6, on the final day of the Tory Partys annual conference. Cabinet Minister Jacob Rees-Mogg will give an update on the decision to pull the vote today.

Universal Credit is a social security payment rolled out since 2013 as a combination and replacement of several different welfare benefits. It is set at such a pitifully low level that ending the 20 increase will plunge millions of people, including millions of children, into desperate financial circumstances overnight. The withdrawal is the largest one-off welfare spending cut in British history, outstripping the Tories 1988 slashing of housing benefits and even the 1931 cut to unemployment benefit during the Great Depressioncarried out by the National Government under former Labour leader Ramsay MacDonald.

Former Labour Party leader Ramsay MacDonald who was prime minister from 1929 to 1935

Roughly six million people receive Universal Credit payments, in households containing 3.4 million children. The benefit is a punitive system, offering minimal support, often delayed, and reduced by a host of possible sanctions, reductions and caps. The standard monthly amount for a couple over 25 is 509.91, with an additional 237.08 for a first child. Someone with a disability or health condition which limits their capacity to work, a definition policed with abysmal cruelty, can claim an additional 342.63 a month.

The Joseph Rowntree Federation (JRF) estimates that the governments 1,040 a year cut will immediately throw half a million people into poverty, including 300,000 children. In fact, families with childrenespecially single-parentswill be disproportionately impacted. The majority of those affected are working families.

In its statement, the JRF used the example of a typical family of five receiving Universal Creditwith three children, one parent in full-time work and one in part-time, living in a medium-cost areato show the devastating effect of benefit cuts in recent years. In 2013/14, the family would have scraped through at 271 a month above the poverty line. Today, even with the 20 increase, they are below the poverty line. After the cut, they will be 150 a month below.

Action for Children has carried out a similar analysis and reports that the typical low to middle-income sole-earner family two children will be 1,800 a year poorer come October 6 than they were in 2010.

According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, 2.3 million people will be pushed into debt after October 6 in order to afford essential bills. Save the Children report that 47 percent of people are concerned they wont be able to live on the money they have left, and another 18 percent were unsure.

One hundred different organisations, including charities, childrens doctors and public health experts, have written to the government opposing the cut, warning it will cause immense, immediate and avoidable hardship. Not only are the Tories proceeding, they have refused to publish the analysis of its impact, demanded in a Freedom of Information request by the Poverty Alliance, claiming it would not be in the public interest.

For huge numbers of people, the sudden withdrawal of vital support will come as a painful shock. Surveys have found that between 18 and 36 percent of recipients are not aware of the planned cut, rising to over 40 percent in Greater London and over half among young people.

The axe will fall just six days after the scrapping of the furlough job support scheme at the end of September. The Resolution Foundation estimates than some 900,000 people will still be on the scheme when it ends and, if they do not find a job or leave the labour market altogether, will be moved onto Jobseekers Allowance at 74.70 a week for the over-25s and 59.20 a week for under-25s.

UK Jobcentre

The effect of these attacks could be far worse than predicted, coming amid a sharp rise in the cost of living. Rents outside London grew 5 percent in the year to the end of July, according to property website Zoopla, an increase of more than 450 a year for the average billthe largest the site has seen. In areas like Wigan, Greater Manchester, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, Hastings, East Sussex and Norwich, the figure is closer to 10 percent. Falls in already sky-high rents in London, as a result of the pandemic, have bottomed out and rents are expected to begin climbing again later this year.

More than 1.5 million households receiving Universal Credit in February 2021 were private renters, 55 percent of whom already did not receive enough housing support to make the rent.

Last month, the UKs energy regulator Ofgem lifted the price cap on energy tariffs to its highest-ever level, leading to the biggest rise in energy bills in a decade for as many as 15 million customers and their families. Eon UK, Scottish Power, Ovo Energy, EDF Energy and British Gas all announced increases of 12 percentroughly 139 a year.

Petrol prices reached their highest level since 2013 and diesel their highest since 2014 in July. RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams commented, Right now its hard to see what it will take for prices to start falling again.

The cost of food is also expected to increase, with the Financial Times reporting, UK retail trade signals prospect of higher food prices, and Nestle, Procter and Gamble and Unilever all warning of hikes. Prior to the 20 increase, 43 percent of Universal Credit recipients were food insecure.

At the end of August, co-coordinator of the Independent Food Aid Network Sabine Goodwin wrote in the BMJ (formerly, British Medical Journal) to warn a perfect storm is brewing. Food banks, she said, were preparing for the busiest and most difficult winter on record as result of the Universal Credit cut and price rises. The scale of the disaster about to unfold cannot be overestimated.

The Tories are pushing workers and their families over a financial cliff edge as a whip to enforce their herd immunity-inspired return-to-work agenda and to create as exploitable a labour force as possible as the economy is fully reopened. Confronted with a manifold economic crisis due to COVID and Brexit, the ruling class is seeking to resolve it through a brutal assault on the working class.

Not a peep of opposition has been heard from the Labour Party. The party is a trusted pillar of British capitalism, but the degree to which it categorically refuses to associate itself, even rhetorically, with the slightest suggestion of a redistributive policy is remarkable. Through its efforts, political debate is kept wholly within the bounds set by Johnsons Tory governmentthe most right-wing in British history.

While pledging to vote against the Universal Credit cut, Labour has done absolutely nothing to mobilise opposition. Its alternative policy, set out by shadow work and pensions secretary Jonathan Reynolds last month, is to rename the benefit and tinker with the taper rate at which it is withdrawn as people earn more income. In Reynoldss words, We think the way the system operates, it interacts with people who are in low-paid work, does not work sufficiently well for them.

Asked by how much Labour would reduce the taper rate, Reynolds did not answer, saying he would need to cost that properly. Asked whether Labour would reintroduce the paltry 20-a-week increase, he replied, I cant give a specific commitment on that at this stage.

It should be remembered that this is the same party touted by pseudo-left groups like the Socialist Workers Party just a few years ago as having undergone a radical social democratic rebirth under former leader Jeremy Corbyn, whose manifesto offered a glimpse of jobs, homes and public services for the 99%, protection for our environmentand making the capitalist class pay, according to the Socialist Party.

The truth is that Corbyn did not change a spot on the Labour Party. His departure as leader has revealed what he, the SP and the SWP did their utmost to concealthat he spent his tenure in close political collaboration with a party of Thatcherite monsters who cannot distinguish themselves from the likes of Boris Johnson.

The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) warned from the moment of Corbyns election as Labour leader: No one can seriously propose that this partywhich, in its politics and organisation and the social composition of its apparatus, is Tory in all but namecan be transformed into an instrument of working-class struggle. This prognosis has been confirmed. The task now for workers and young people is the building of the SEP to lead the working class in the immense class battles that lie ahead.
In a speech at the White House before union executives on Wednesday afternoon, President Biden pledged a series of measures to strengthen the official union apparatus. The hand-picked audience included, among others, Liz Shuler, the newly installed president of the AFL-CIO.

Biden said that he intended to be the most pro-union president in the history of the United States. When Congress passed the 1935 Labor Relations Act, he declared, it didnt just say you can have unions It said that we, the government should encourage unions and collective bargaining.

Joe Biden (Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia Commons)

His remarks repeated the themes of his speech in March of this year, when he openly backed the efforts of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) to unionize workers at Amazons Bessemer, Alabama, warehouse.

Bidens aggressive promotion of the unions expresses a growing fear within the ruling class of a rank-and-file movement from below that is beginning to escape from the control of the bureaucratic apparatus.

Wednesdays speech comes as the coronavirus pandemic is once again surging out of control, with an average of more than 160,000 cases and more than 1,200 deaths every day. The unions, including the American Federation of Teachers and the National Education Association, are playing an essential role in enforcing the reopening of schools for in-person learning, which has already led to a massive spike in infections among children and teachers.

Behind the scenes, moreover, the Biden administration is intensely discussing with union officials the developing rebellion of rank-and-file workers against the collaboration of the unions with management in imposing concessions contractsfirst at Volvo Trucks in the summer, where workers rejected three contracts backed by the United Auto Workers (UAW), and now at auto parts maker Dana, where workers have just overwhelmingly rejected a contract backed by the UAW and the United Steelworkers (USW). In both cases, the World Socialist Web Site has assisted workers in setting up rank-and-file committees to organize opposition.

In his speech, Biden presented the existing trade unions as essential instruments for raising and defending the living standards of workers. Among the gains won by workers that the unions help secure, he said, are health care, a pension, higher wages with a safer workplace that protects us against discrimination and harassment the eight-hour day, a weekend, time-and-a-half overtime, safety standards, sick days, victories for all of us.

These gains were won through the bitter struggle of workers, including in the mass movement that led to the formation of the industrial unions in the first decades of the 20th century. But the corporatist organizations represented by the officials he was addressing have for decades collaborated in the destruction of all of these past conquests.

The situation at Dana is emblematic. In plants overseen by the UAW and USW, under contracts they have forced through, the eight-hour day is non-existent. Workers are regularly forced to work 12 hours a day, seven days a week, for weeks at a time, in brutal sweatshop conditions.

Throughout the auto industry, the UAW has effectively abolished the eight-hour day through the imposition of alternative work schedules, with 10- or even 12-hour days and weekends on straight (non-overtime) pay. Last year, the UAW rammed through an agreement with Fiat Chrysler (now Stellantis) that mandates a 12-hour, seven-day schedule for skilled tradesmen at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant outside of Detroit.

The unions have also overseen the systematic elimination of defined-benefit pension plans (as opposed to retirement benefits tied to the stock market) and the destruction of health care for current workers and retirees. Only 4 percent of private-sector workers currently have full defined benefit plans, down from 60 percent in the 1980s. The proliferation of two-tier wage and benefit plans guarantees poverty-level wages with few if any benefits for younger workers.

As for safety standards, for the past 18 months the unions have played the central role in forcing workers to labor amidst a deadly pandemic that has killed more than 670,000 people in the United States alone. When autoworkers downed tools in March 2020, it was the UAW, working closely with the auto companies, which organized the return to work. And it was the unions that helped ensure that there were only eight major strikes last year, the third lowest level since 1947.

Biden added that workers who join unions gain power In a simple word, a union means there is democracy. Autoworkers at Volvo Trucks might beg to differ, after they voted in June and July to reject three concessions contracts brought back by the UAW, only to have the UAW organize a re-vote on the third contract, which it declared had been passed by 17 votes. It is routine for the unions to try to ram through agreements without giving workers the chance to even read the full contract, as the UAW and USW sought to do over the past week at Dana.

Bidens aggressive promotion of the unions is motivated by two interrelated factors.

First, Biden represents a section of the ruling class that sees in the unions critical instruments for the suppression of class struggle. While Trump and dominant factions of the Republican Party have cultivated fascistic organizations as a spearhead against working class unrest, the Democrats have focused on utilizing the unions as a labor police force over the workers.

Decades of betrayals, however, have profoundly undermined the credibility of these organizations in the eyes of workers. In the case of the Amazon warehouse in Bessemer, the campaign of the AFL-CIO and the RWDSU failed miserably, despite the support it received from virtually the entire media and most of the political establishment. Only 13 percent of workers at the plant voted in favor of bringing in the union. The National Labor Relations Board responded last month by recommending a revote .

Second, Biden and the Democrats see in the unions important instruments for promoting national chauvinism and militarism, particularly in the wake of the humiliating debacle in Afghanistan. In his speech on Wednesday, Biden trumpeted his own variant of Trumps America First nationalism, long backed by the trade union executives in the audience: The Buy America Act became a hollow promise, he said. Im going to make it a reality.

Biden made a point of singling out the role of the UAW in working with the auto companies in increasing the production of electric vehicles (EVs). The Big Three have decided that along with the support of those unions we [will] own the market. The American ruling class sees domination of the EV market as central to its economic competition with China, which is accompanied by an increasingly confrontational military policy.

The strategy of the Biden administration is corporatismthe integration of the government with the corporations and the unions based on the defense of the capitalist system and the interests of the ruling class. Measures such as the Pro Act, which Biden championed on Wednesday, are aimed at strengthening this tripartite alliance.

The unions Biden was speaking of and speaking to on Wednesday bear no relationship to the function traditionally associated with the term union. They are corporatist syndicates, controlled by upper-middle class executives who live off of the exploitation of the workers they claim to represent. Biden said more than he perhaps intended when he declared on Wednesday in explaining his support for the unions: When has the middle class done better that the wealthy havent done incredibly well?

He concluded with a worried note. Wall Street could go on strike, he said, but if there was a strike movement in the working class, wed be in real trouble. He added: I say that to make a generic point. I think we significantly underestimate, and I think even you guys sometimes underestimate, the incredible value you bring to the safety, security and growth of the economy.

Spoken to an assembly of privileged bureaucrats, the message was clear: You people play a critical role in preventing real trouble and defending the safety and security of the ruling class. Rank-and-file workers, however, will have their own say in the matter.
Here is a look at the life of John Brennan, former director of the CIA.

Personal

Birth date: September 22, 1955

Birth place: North Bergen, New Jersey

Birth name: John Owen Brennan

Father: Owen Brennan

Mother: Dorothy Brennan

Marriage: Kathy (Pokluda) Brennan

Children: Kyle, Kelly and Jaclyn

Education: Fordham University, B.A., 1977; University of Texas at Austin, Masters in Government, 1980

Other Facts

Studied at the American University in Cairo during college.

Speaks Arabic.

Was considered a shoo-in for the position of CIA director after US President Barack Obama's election in November 2008. Brennan dropped out of the running for the job after being criticized for supporting the enhanced terrorist interrogation techniques in use since September 11, 2001.

Timeline

1980 - Brennan joins the CIA's Directorate of Operations as a Career Trainee.

1981 - Joins the CIA's Directorate of Intelligence.

1982-1984 - Political officer at the US Embassy in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

1984-1989 - Works in the Office of Near Eastern and South Asian Analysis in the Directorate of Intelligence.

1990-1992 - In charge of terrorism analysis in the Director of Central Intelligence's Counterterrorist Center.

1994-1995 - CIA's daily intelligence briefer at the White House during the administration of US President Bill Clinton.

1995-1996 - Executive Assistant to then-CIA Deputy Director George Tenet.

1996-1999 - CIA Chief of Station in Saudi Arabia.

1999-2001 - Chief of Staff to then-CIA Director Tenet.

March 2001-March 2003 - CIA Deputy Executive Director.

March 12, 2003-December 6, 2004 - Founding director of the CIA Terrorist Threat Integration Center.

October 2004-August 2005 - Interim Director of the National Counterterrorism Center.

November 2005-January 2009 - President and CEO of The Analysis Corporation.

2008 - Intelligence adviser to then-Sen. Obama during his presidential campaign.

January 20, 2009-March 2013 - Assistant to President Obama for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism.

January 7, 2013 - Nominated by Obama to be director of the CIA.

February 7, 2013 - Testifies before the Senate Intelligence Committee as part of his confirmation hearings.

March 7, 2013 - Confirmed by the Senate, 63-44.

March 8, 2013 - Brennan is sworn in as CIA director.

March 11, 2014 - Sen. Dianne Feinstein of the Senate Intelligence Committee claims the CIA secretly monitored the computers of congressional staffers while they were conducting an internal review of the spy agency's detention program. Feinstein says Brennan told her that the CIA had looked at the computers due to concerns that staffers may have obtained documents they were not authorized to see. Brennan responds that Feinstein's statement is false. "As far as the allegations of CIA hacking into Senate computers, nothing could be further from the truth," Brennan says.

July 31, 2014 - Brennan apologizes to the Senate Intelligence Committee, acknowledging that the CIA did, in fact, look at their computers.

November 20, 2014 - In a letter to CIA staffers, Brennan announces that an internal review is being launched to assess whether the agency should change its organizational structure as it copes with an ever-changing array of national security issues.

December 9, 2014 - The Senate Intelligence Committee releases a summary report that details the CIA's harsh interrogation techniques, which included mock executions of detainees and rectal feeding. The report found these techniques were not effective means of obtaining accurate information.

December 11, 2014 - Brennan defends the CIA's practices during a news conference, declaring that the CIA obtained useful intelligence from detainees, including information that led to the Osama bin Laden raid.

March 6, 2015 - In a memo to CIA staff, Brennan announces changes to the agency's structure in response to cybersecurity concerns and an increasingly complex counterterrorism landscape.

January 15, 2017 - Tells Fox News' Chris Wallace that he doesn't think US President-elect Donald Trump has "a full appreciation of Russian capabilities, Russia's intentions," and that Trump's public displays of contempt for the US intelligence community could undermine national security. His remarks are made after Trump rejects intelligence agencies' reports of claims that Russia has compromising information on the President-elect.

January 20, 2017 - Leaves office.

May 23, 2017 - Brennan tells House Russia investigators that Russia "brazenly interfered" in US elections, including actively contacting members of President Trump's campaign, but Brennan stops shy of dubbing it "collusion."

September 4, 2017 - Is named a distinguished fellow for global security at Fordham Law School's Center on National Security.

September 19, 2017 - Is named a distinguished non-resident scholar and senior advisor to the Intelligence Studies Project (ISP) at the University of Texas at Austin.

March 17, 2018 - After Trump tweets about the firing of former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, Brennan blasts the President, tweeting, "When the full extent of your venality, moral turpitude, and political corruption becomes known, you will take your rightful place as a disgraced demagogue in the dustbin of history."

June 1, 2018 - In an op-ed published in The Washington Post, Brennan accuses Trump of "lying routinely to the American people without compunction, intentionally fueling divisions in our country and actively working to degrade the imperfect but critical institutions that serve us."

August 15, 2018 - Trump announces that he has revoked Brennan's security clearance.

August 16, 2018 - In an op-ed for the New York Times, Brennan says Trump revoked his security clearance to "scare into silence" critics.

October 12, 2018 - In an op-ed published in The Washington Post, Brennan writes that if Saudi journalist and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi was killed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, it was with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's authorization. Brennan writes that his death must be addressed by the US Intelligence community and the Trump administration.

August 31, 2020 - In an op-ed for The Washington Post, Brennan says Trump intends to do whatever necessary to stay in office and "there should be no doubt in anyone's mind that he will attempt to suffocate the flow of any intelligence to Congress that could upend his ruthless ambition."

October 6, 2020 - Brennan's memoir, "Undaunted: My Fight Against America's Enemies at Home and Abroad," is set for release.

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The morning of September 11, 2001, is one that most of us will never forget.

A total of 2,977 people were killed when 19 men highjacked four commercial airplanes. The terrorists crashed two planes into the World Trade Center, one into the Pentagon in Washington, DC, and another crashed outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden orchestrated the attack.

New York City

The images that stick with most people from the day are the two plans that crashed into Lower Manhattan's two World Trade Center towers.

Hijackers crashed American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 into the towers.

In New York alone, 2,753 people were killed. That includes 343 New York City Firefighters, 23 New York City police officers, and 37 officers from the Port Authority.

Washington, DC

American Airlines Flight 77 was hijacked that morning as well. Terrorists crashed the plane into the Pentagon, the heart of America's military.

In that crash, 184 people were killed.

Shanksville, PA

Shanksville is often told as a story of heroes who overtook hijacked Flight 93.

The plane crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, killing 40 people.

It isn't known for sure what the target for Flight 93 was. The plane crashed into a field, potentially saving lives in an attack on a building, when passengers and crew fought back and tried to take control of the plane's flight deck.

Timeline of the attacks on the morning of 9/11

8:46 a.m. ET - American Airlines Flight 11 (traveling from Boston to Los Angeles) strikes the North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.

Center in New York City. 9:03 a.m. ET - United Airlines Flight 175 (traveling from Boston to Los Angeles) strikes the South Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City.

9:37 a.m. ET - American Airlines Flight 77 (traveling from Dulles, Virginia, to Los Angeles) strikes the Pentagon Building in Washington.

9:59 a.m. ET - South Tower of WTC collapses in approximately 10 seconds.

10:03 a.m. ET - United Airlines Flight 93 (traveling from Newark, New Jersey, to San Francisco) crashes in a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

10:28 a.m. ET - North Tower of WTC collapses. The time between the first attack and the collapse of both World Trade Center Towers is 102 minutes.

Below you'll find embedded videos of news coverage from the morning of 9/11. As a warning, some of these videos may be hard to watch.

CBS News - 9/11/01: The towers are hit

CBS News - President George Bush visits ground zero days after 9/11

President Bush's Address to Nation on Terrorist Attacks, 9/11/2001

CNN - 9/11: South Tower collapses, Pentagon hit

CBS News - 09.21.01: The final call from Flight 93
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has visited Afghanee evacuees at Camp Atterbury.

The governor's office said he went to learn more about "Operation: Allies Welcome." That is the name the government gave the operation to bring refugees into the United States.

Camp Atterbury is about 40-miles south of Indianapolis.

"I'm so proud to see the work being done by the Indiana National Guard and our federal partners in such a short time to help these evacuees," Gov. Holcomb said. "There has been an outpouring of kindness from Hoosiers to welcome those who aided and protected us."
NEWTON, Ill. (WTHI) - Just after midnight on August 24th there was a fire at Yesterday's Pub. Flames ripped through the historic building destroying the business. But it also destroyed the home of its owners, Dale and Pixie Mahaney.

Now the local community is helping out. Folks from all around have been working to pick up the pieces.

The fire began in the front room of the pub. There is a lot of water and smoke damage throughout. But a surprising amount of the building is still intact. Already crews have hauled out six dumpster loads and there is still a lot to do.

The First National Bank in Olney has set up a fund for donations. American Legion Riders of Post 14 are also planning an event in Saint Marie on the 25th. All to help fund the rebuild efforts.

Richard Hooper with Post 14 says, "It's his home and everything. To have a veteran down like that is, it hits me. I'm a veteran and it just hurts to see it. So we've got to step in to try to help them out."

The benefit in Ste. Marie begins at 8 am on Saturday, Sept. 25th at the American Legion Post 932.
(CNN) -- A pastor who felt called by God to pray on the US Capitol grounds on the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks won't be able to, a federal judge decided on Thursday, because the security concerns around the building are still too great.

The Rev. Patrick Mahoney's short-lived legal challenge prompted Judge James Boasberg of the DC District Court to reflect upon the new reality around the Capitol, which remains restricted following the January 6 insurrection and as federal authorities continue to fear violence and large crowds.

During a court hearing Thursday, Boasberg brought up the insurrection, as well as an April attack where a man crashed a car into a barrier guarding the Capitol and killed an officer.

"Unfortunately what happened on January 6 may change the ability of many people to access the Capitol in the way they've done so traditionally in my lifetime," Boasberg told lawyers for Mahoney, to whom the Capitol Police refused to give a permit for his prayer vigil.

Mahoney's attorney, Joshua Dixon, said in court that because Mahoney felt called to pray in a specific location on the western front lawn of the Capitol -- and not a few yards away outside the area -- his freedom of religion was being denied, and a "quintessential public forum" was shut down. Dixon also noted that members of Congress have held gatherings on the Capitol grounds.

But a Justice Department lawyer, representing the Capitol Police, argued that the current security situation, including upcoming demonstrations planned for the Capitol grounds, prompted law enforcement to recommend keeping parts of the Capitol grounds closed to groups.

Boasberg agreed that was reasonable.

"People have died, and to say that the government can't assess security in these circumstances seems naive," Boasberg told Mahoney and his lawyer.

Mahoney, in a statement following the hearing, said he was disappointed in the ruling but would "continue to passionately work to ensure the First Amendment and free speech are once again honored and celebrated on the grounds of the United States Capitol."

Several areas around the Capitol that previously allowed for permits are closed to groups larger than 19 people until further notice, according to the Capitol Police.

Since more restrictive fencing came down around the Capitol in July, 13 people and groups have asked for access to area 1 -- the area in front of the Western front of the building -- where Mahoney wanted to pray. Only members of Congress have been able to hold events in that area, according to documents in the case.

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TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI)  Saturday marks 20 years since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. Todays high school students weren't even alive yet when the attacks happened two decades ago.

A Wabash Valley teacher was in the classroom when terrorists flew planes into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a Pennsylvania field. He is still educating students about what happened and what has changed since.

Jim Mann teaches an honors course combining history, economics, and political science. Mann has worked at Terre Haute South Vigo High School since 1997.

LINK | Man who took rescue tools to Ground Zero reflects on days spent there 20 years later

He was in the classroom on a statewide testing day no one expected would mark a turning point in history, for the country and the world.

"So much was happening right before our eyes and it wasn't something we were used to seeing."

On Tuesday, September 11th, 2001, Mr. Mann talked with his students about the terrorist attacks unfolding in real-time before them, answering questions as best he could.

Now, 20 years later, he's teaching juniors and seniors, who had not yet been born the day the nation was attacked, about what happened that day.

"I think they have an appreciation that this was a changing event in the United States."

His lesson has evolved over the last two decades but starts with what happened and then what changed.

"If you want to understand America in the 2020s you have to understand September 11th, 2001, and the change that was made."

Students discuss the United States' response to the attacks, liberty versus security, the death of terrorist mastermind Usama bin Laden, and now the end of the war in Afghanistan.

Mann says he and his fellow teachers were honest with students 20 years ago when they did not have the answers. Today, he still says it's okay to admit you don't know but pledge to learn together.

"You just have to figure out a way to communicate with the students to get them to understand that this did happen in the past but it impacts us today."
(CNN) -- The summer of 2021, which produced numerous extreme weather and climate disasters, was also the hottest on record in the US and tied with the Dust Bowl summer of 1936, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The average temperature from meteorological summer -- June, July and August -- was 2.6 degrees Fahrenheit above the 20th-century average, NOAA reported Thursday. This summer's average temperature "technically exceeds the record heat of the 1936 Dust Bowl summer," though by just 0.01 degrees, it also noted.

Scientists reported in August that global temperatures are increasing faster than previously thought, and the window is rapidly closing to cut human reliance on fossil fuels and avoid catastrophic climate change.

The state-of-the-science report from the United Nations' Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change said the planet is careening toward a critical threshold that world leaders agreed in the Paris accord should be avoided to prevent worsening impacts.

More than 18% of the contiguous US experienced record warm temperatures this summer, NOAA reported. California, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon and Utah each reported their warmest summer on record, and 16 other states had a top-5 warmest.

"Last month brought Hurricane Ida, numerous wildfires and devastating floods, capping off a summer of record heat and rainfall for many states throughout the country," the NOAA report stated.

The announcement comes on the heels of last month's NOAA announcement that July was the hottest month on record for the entire planet.

In addition to having record heat, the summer also saw above-average precipitation for the country, despite historic drought conditions in the West. Precipitation across the US was more than 12% above normal summer levels, with Mississippi, Alabama, Massachusetts, Michigan and New York all experiencing top-5 wettest summer

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North Korea has been barred from competing at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing as part of its punishment for its "unilateral decision" to drop out of the Tokyo Games this summer, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said Wednesday.

Pyongyang chose not to send its athletes to the Summer Games due to concerns its athletes could contract Covid-19 and bring the virus back into the impoverished nation. Experts believe a Covid-19 outbreak would overwhelm North Korea's dilapidated health care infrastructure.

The IOC said it gave North Korea's Olympic Committee "a fair opportunity to be heard," but also communicated "very clear warnings about the consequences of its position" not to send athletes to Tokyo.

"The IOC provided reassurances for the holding of safe Games and offered constructive proposals to find an appropriate and tailor-made solution until the very last minute (including the provision of vaccines), which were systematically rejected," the statement said.

In response, the IOC suspended the North Korean Olympic Committee until the end of 2022, which effectively bars the country from formally competing in Beijing. The IOC said if any North Korean athletes qualify for the Winter Olympics through processes already taking place, it "will take an appropriate decision in due course for the athlete(s) concerned."

There are also financial penalties tied to the suspension. North Korea will not receive any assistance from the IOC during the period of suspension, and the IOC said North Korea will not get a share of the money earned from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, as the country "did not contribute to the success of the Olympic Games." However, those funds had already been withheld due to the punishing international sanctions levied on the Kim Jong Un regime for its pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles.

North Korea has not publicly commented on the suspension.

To date, North Korea has been able to prevent a major outbreak of Covid-19 thanks to a series of draconian public health measures. North Korea has severed almost all of its ties with the outside world in 2020 to prevent an influx of coronavirus cases. Foreign diplomats and aid workers have also fled the country en masse, citing shortages of goods and extreme restrictions on daily life.

From a public health standpoint, the government's response appears to have worked. North Korea has not reported a major outbreak of Covid-19, and there have been no indications one has taken place, though experts doubt Pyongyang's claim the country has not seen a single case of the virus.

However, the decision to close North Korea's border has affected trade with Beijing, an economic lifeline the impoverished country needs to keep its people from going hungry, and a food crisis has reported, tied in part to both inclement weather and trade issues.

Prices of some staple goods reportedly skyrocketed in Pyongyang this summer. Experts say rice and fuel prices remain relatively stable but imported staples such as sugar, soy bean oil and flour prices went up. Residents said non-staple items such as a small packet of black tea sold for around $70, while a packet of coffee fetched more than $100.

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On Wednesday, the Biden administration requested that all Trump appointees appointed to boards at the nation's military academies -- a group that includes longtime Trump adviser Kellyanne Conway -- resign. Conway, in a letter rejecting Biden's request, said that his call to resign would constitute a "break from presidential norms."

Yes, she really said that. "A break from presidential norms."

This is, to be kind, a little rich coming from Conway, who spent years by then-President Donald Trump's side as he smashed every presidential norm possible.

There was the travel ban from seven Muslim-majority countries.

There was time he said that there were "very fine people on both sides" of the white nationalist riots in Charlottesville, Virginia.

There was the time he pulled the United States from the Paris climate accord.

There was the time he told the Proud Boys, a white supremacist organization, to "stand down and stand by."

There was the time he referred to some African nations as "s*** hole countries."

There was the time when he told four freshman Democratic lawmakers -- three of whom were born in the United States -- to "go back and help fix the totally broken and crime-infested places from which they came."

There was the time that he suggested to the president of Ukraine that America had done a lot for the country and all he was asking in return was that they investigate Joe Biden, his likely 2020 rival.

There was the time he publicly scoffed at the need for mask-wearing to slow the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic -- and his ongoing refusal to make a clear call -- without hedging -- that every eligible American should be vaccinated.

There was the time when he helped incite a riot at the US Capitol that left five people dead and more than 100 police officers wounded.

And was the time post-presidency that he decided to offer ringside commentary for a fight on the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terror attacks.

There were a lot of other times, too, when Trump bent -- or flat-out broke -- "presidential norms."

And he reveled in it.

"My use of social media is not Presidential - it's MODERN DAY PRESIDENTIAL," Trump tweeted in July 2017. "Make America Great Again!"

At a campaign rally in 2019, Trump expounded on his view of the presidency -- and how he was changing it.

"It's much easier being presidential, it's easy," he said. "All you have to do is act like a stiff... And everybody would be out of here so fast! You wouldn't come in in the first place!"

Conway, like so many other political pros who had been in and around Washington long before Trump came to disrupt the presidency, went along with every last bit of this revolution. In fact, she coined the single most memorable -- and telling -- phrase of Trump's entire presidency when in response to false claims made by White House press secretary Sean Spicer about the size of the crowd at Trump's inauguration, Conway said this: "You're saying it's a falsehood. And they're giving -- Sean Spicer, our press secretary -- gave alternative facts."

Alternative facts, indeed.

Conway's comments are part of a broader attempt by the former president and some of his closest advisers to gaslight the country into believing that how they remember the last four years is not, in fact, how the last four years actually were.

Just last month, former Trump White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said, straight-faced, that "when President Trump was president, you didn't see crisis after crisis. You just didn't see it."

And, in May, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy tried to re-frame a phone call he had on January 6 with Trump. "What I talked to President Trump about, I was the first person to contact him when the riots was going on, "McCarthy said, in a major flip flop from his previous comments on the riot and the President's role in it. "He didn't see it. What he ended the call was saying -- telling me, he'll put something out to make sure to stop this. And that's what he did, he put a video out later."

This is all consistent with Trump's infamous pledge to supporters that "what you're seeing and what you're reading is not what's happening."

The thing is, we remember what happened. We remember the norms that Trump gleefully smashed -- and the damage done. And that means that the likes of Conway, McEnany and McCarthy can't gaslight the country -- no matter how hard they try.

The-CNN-Wire

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Update Sept. 13, 2021

The special election is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 25.

Original article below

HOUSTON, Miss. (WTVA) - Houston Alderwoman Kellie Atkinson announced her resignation on Tuesday, Sept. 7.

Mayor Stacey Parker confirmed she spoke with him on Tuesday about the decision.

Parker did not say the reason behind the resignation, preferring that Atkinson provide that information.

She shared a statement on Thursday, Sept. 9.

She was in her second term as alderwoman, the mayor said.

The city is working with the Secretary of States Office to determine the next step.
HOUMA, La. (AP)  New Orleans has lifted a nightly curfew as the city moves closer to regaining full power, but 96% of utility customers in Louisiana's hardest-hit communities are still without electricity.

Meanwhile, more than a quarter of a million children are still unable to return to schools.

Executives with a Louisiana utility firm say theyre on track to have power restored to 90% of New Orleans by late Wednesday evening.

Hurricane Ida left all of New Orleans in the dark and more than 1 million people without power after it slammed into the state as a Category 4 storm on Aug. 29.

Tens of thousands of people are also still without water.
STARKVILLE, Miss. (WTVA) - The Oktibbeha County Chancery reached an agreement Wednesday that Ferretti Property residents will have nine more days to vacate the primacies, which is next Friday.

Tenants with certain health conditions have until October 14th to leave the complex.

WTVA reached out to the landlord about this matter, but she wouldnt comment.

Starkville Strong is working to help those people find homes.

They are looking for housing availability for people outside of the Starkville area and need your help.

The organization said they are struggling with helping people find homes.

There will be a Rental Assistance Fair on Tuesday, September 14th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Level III Building on Main Street in Starkville.

For more information, click here.
Morgantown, WV (26505)

Today

Thunderstorms. A few storms may be severe. High 78F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 80%..

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Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low near 65F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 80%.
Charleston, WV (25311)

Today

Isolated thunderstorms this morning, then mainly cloudy during the afternoon with thunderstorms likely. High 78F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%..

Tonight

Thunderstorms during the evening will give way to cloudy skies after midnight. Low 64F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 70%.
The Carnival Pride will sail from Baltimore Sunday on a seven-day trip to the Bahamas, the first ship to carry passengers from the state-owned ports cruise terminal in 18 months because of the pandemic.

The voyage, which requires both COVID-19 vaccines and tests for all passengers, marks a return to the Cruise Maryland terminal in Locust Point for the first time since the Royal Caribbeans Grandeur of the Seas arrived back at a closed terminal due to COVID-19 restrictions in March 2020.

Carnival and port officials will greet the departing passengers with a celebratory ribbon cutting. But the cruise leaves amid a still-raging delta variant that has prompted the federal government to issue new guidance on testing before cruises.

Whether or not youre among those visiting the sandy beaches of Freeport, Nassau and the private island of Half Moon Cay next week, heres what you should know:

What are the vaccine requirements?

All passengers will be required to present proof of vaccination and a negative test result within three days of boarding the 88,500-ton, 965-foot cruise ship Sunday.

Passengers are required to have received their second dose of vaccine at least two weeks before the day of departure and bring a physical vaccination card with them.

Is the ships capacity being limited?

Carnival is operating at about 70% capacity on all its ships to allow for more social distancing, according to spokesman Vance Gulliksen.

What changed in the CDCs pre-cruise testing guidance?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tightened its guidance this week on how many days before a cruise all passengers  regardless of vaccination  should take a COVID-19 test. The guidance has been revised from three days to two days beforehand. The Pride cruise Sunday leaves one day before that new rule goes into effect.

Given the change, Carnival is developing plans to offer rapid tests before cruises at mobile testing sites within walking distance of the port terminals, the company said. More information is expected to be posted on the cruise lines website once the rapid tests are available.

Story continues

Are health experts concerned about cruises resuming?

Christopher Thompson is uncomfortable with the idea of out-of-town cruise passengers descending on Baltimore, eating at its restaurants and staying in its hotels while the ultra-contagious delta variant circulates in the city and around the country.

Thompson, an immunology and microbiology professor at Loyola University Maryland, said requiring vaccinations and tests before boarding the ship is a good step. But he warned that the effects of vaccination are waning with each new variant, and negative tests are only about 80% accurate.

Theyre the right things to do if youre going to move forward with this, he said. But its still scary to me.

Thompson suggested increasing the testing requirement to two tests, 36 hours apart, which would provide a higher level of certainty that all passengers are COVID-free, he said. The cruise lines should encourage masking and offer testing at sea, he suggested.

Maybe even in the middle of the cruise would be prudent, he said.

Whats happening to celebrate?

Port of Baltimore Executive Director William P. Doyle, Carnival President Christine Duffy and Carnival Pride Captain Maurizio Ruggiero will cut a ribbon and welcome the first guests aboard in a #BackToFun event in the terminal before the ship leaves.

Were thrilled to be back in Baltimore, providing our guests with the relaxing vacation theyve been so patiently waiting for but also supporting the local economy and offering our crew members an opportunity to support their families back home, Duffy said in a statement.

Doyle said the Prides return will be a great day for the Port of Baltimore, which boasts a location directly off Interstate 95, only 15 minutes from BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, and near plenty of the citys tourism and dining attractions.

We have waited a long time to welcome back the Carnival Pride to Charm City, Doyle said. Cruise from Baltimore, enjoy our great city, and sail to some of the most incredible tropical paradises in the world.

Carnival is Baltimores most popular cruise line, and the Pride has carried more than 1 million passengers since 2009, according to the company.

Baltimore has been a wonderful partner for more than a decade and we are delighted to get Back to Fun in this key market which serves hundreds of thousands of guests in the Northeast and along the Atlantic coast, Duffy said.
After his first runway show Thursday afternoon at the Skyline Drive In on the East River, with Manhattan as the backdrop for his new American look, Peter Do couldnt hold back the tears.

Im really proud of what we accomplished because we started with very little, said the Celine and Derek Lam veteran who has become one of the most buzzed-about New York designers in three short years.

More from WWD

Thats the promise of America that hopefully still exists, and the promise of the fashion industry, where so many immigrants have found success for themselves and their families.

I wanted to show the skyline as a nod to the point of arrival for my parents, which is why Im here, said the designer, who at 14 moved from Vietnam to the U.S. His mom works as a nail technician and his father was a construction worker. For us, New York has always been home. But with the rise of COVID-19 and Asian American hate, with people telling us to go back to where we came from, Ive been thinking a lot about Vietnam.

Which is where the collection began.

Not with a dragon or lotus, but through the hazy lens of the women who brought me up, said Do, remembering how his grandmother used to dress for church back in Vietnam.

Now that he has six collections under his belt, and support of retailers like Bergdorf Goodmans Linda Fargo, hes eased up on some of the edgy toughness that marked his earlier work. I realized there is strength in softness, he said of listening to customer feedback.

The result was fluid silk and linen dresses over trousers after the traditional Vietnamese ao dai styles, lighter pleated skirts for his four-piece suits and sliding-off-shoulders shirts treated almost like accessories  perfect for warming climes. T-shirts and dresses came with airy portholes in the backs  instant AC.

Story continues

Covetable oversize dumpling bags and new styles of his sturdy boots and transparent heels should create more opportunities to buy into the brand. Meanwhile, striking floral and shard-like crystal embroideries on razor-sharp tailoring will appeal to the designers ever-growing Hollywood fan base. The MTV Awards are coming up this weekend after all.

Launch Gallery: Peter Do RTW Spring 2022

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Gov. Gavin Newsom is on track to survive a recall election in deep-blue California after initially causing Democrats severe heartburn, with veteran Republican insiders blaming GOP front-runner Larry Elder.

The conservative talk-radio host motivated previously complacent rank-and-file Democrats  which neutralized Newsoms biggest challenge of voter apathy  by catering to the Republican base with polarizing rhetoric and adamantly opposing mask and vaccine mandates amid a resurgence of the coronavirus. In a state where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans 21, Elder made himself the perfect foil for Newsom  enabling the Democratic incumbent to make the campaign about the GOP rather than his embattled leadership.

Newsom has successfully framed the race as him versus Elder, and Democratic voters are responding by voting, said Rob Stutzman, a GOP operative in Sacramento who advised former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Republican who succeeded Gray Davis after the Democrat was recalled from office in 2003. Elder has no appeal outside of GOP voters.

Elder, a 69-year-old whip-smart and engaging black Republican who is at times combative, is poised to finish first among candidates vying to replace Newsom in Tuesdays recall.

But it will be a Pyrrhic victory if fewer than 50% of California voters support removing the governor from office. A flurry of recent polling suggests that is exactly what will happen. In the RealClearPolitics survey average, the number of respondents who will no on recall leads 55.4% to 41.8%. Republicans who voted in their partys win in the 2003 recall who spoke with the Washington Examiner Thursday say the data are believable.

Before Elder, the race was all about Gavin, and our polls were looking very good, said a Republican consultant in California. If the election had been four or more weeks ago, we would have won.

NEWSOM SOUNDS ALARM ON CALIFORNIA RECALL, PULLING WHITE HOUSE INTO THE RACE

Story continues

Elder received some support outside of the traditional conservative circles.

Democrat Gloria Romero, who served as her partys majority leader in the California Senate, even cut a television advertisement for the Republican.

Yes, Im a Democrat. But the recall of Newsom is not about political party, she said in the spot. Meanwhile, Elders Republican critics concede the GOP faced several hurdles in this special election campaign that have nothing to do with Elder, as is true for the party in every statewide contest.

The Democratic Party enjoys a 22.4 percentage point advantage over Republicans among registered voters, and Newsom and the anti-recall forces vastly outspent the pro-recall groups and the handful of Republicans seeking to replace the governor. Additionally, former President Donald Trump, broadly viewed as the leader of the Republican Party, is disliked in California. In contrast, top Democrats  President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, and former President Barack Obama  are popular.

Despite all of that, some Republicans claim Elder squandered opportunities to hobble Newsom when he was on the ropes. Voters were upset with the governor for infamously ignoring his own pandemic and tired of his coronavirus regulatory regime. There was frustration over closed public schools, rising crime, and a homelessness epidemic. The state unemployment agency overseen by Newsoms administration was beset by fraud and mismanagement.

Democrats agree.

Earlier this summer, Democratic strategists who lived through the 2003 recall worried Newsom could be toppled despite California becoming a deeper shade of blue since then. Some believe this recall might have ended similarly if a centrist, such as former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, emerged as the consensus GOP contender. Elders swift rise after entering the race late compared to the rest of the Republican field has them breathing a huge sigh of relief.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Had the GOP rallied around Faulconer and he was able to raise the same amount of money as Elder  which is pretty impressive  would this have been a different race? Sure, said Andrew Acosta, a veteran Democratic consultant in the Golden State. But the GOP would never do that because the base is not there. Elder is clearly the gift that keeps giving for Gavin.

This is over, added Garry South, the Democratic operative who was Daviss chief political adviser in 2003. Newsom beats it by double digits.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Campaigns, 2022 Elections, California recall, Larry Elder, Gavin Newsom

Original Author: David M. Drucker

Original Location: As Gavin Newsom's recall prospects brighten, Republicans point fingers at Larry Elder
The Falcons signed punter Dom Maggio over the offseason to provide competition for Sterling Hofrichter, and now three days from the start of the 2021 regular season, neither player is on the teams active roster.

Both Maggio and Hofrichter were waived/injured but would return to Atlantas injured reserve list after clearing waivers. On Wednesday, the Falcons waived Maggio from the injured reserve list with a settlement, reports ESPNs Michael Rothstein.

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Hofrichter remains on the teams injured reserve list and former Georgia punter Cameron Nizialek is set to start in Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.

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Sep. 9Fully vaccinated people in Hawaii will soon be able to show digital proof of their vaccination status on mobile phones before entering businesses and other venues that require it.

Gov. David Ige and Office of Enterprise Technology Director Doug Murdock on Wednesday the state-issued Hawaii SMART Health Card, which saves the CDC vaccination card digitally on the mobile phone and replaces the physical card. Opting into the program, which begins Sept. 10, is voluntary. Individuals who don't want to participate may still show their physical card.

"This will help to prevent the use of fake vaccination cards, " said Ige, adding that businesses will be able to scan the QR code using a verification app.

The announcement comes just days before the start of the Safe Access O 'ahu program, which requires people to show physical proof of their vaccination status or negative COVID-19 test before entering restaurants and bars, indoor gyms and entertainment venues such as bowling alleys, arcades and zoos. The program is slated to go into effect on Sept. 13. Maui County is also launching a Safer Outside program that will require proof of vaccination to enter restaurants, bars and gyms beginning Sept. 15.

Ige said the new digital program through the Safe Travels Hawaii website makes it more convenient for those who have been vaccinated in Hawaii.

More local businesses and government agencies are requiring proof of vaccination status for workers, patrons and customers. 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach and Highgate Hawaii on Wednesday became the first hotel company in Hawaii to for employees and guests.

"Participation in the SMART Health Card program is purely voluntary, but it aims to make it easier and more convenient for patrons to present proof of vaccination at restaurants, gyms, other businesses and establishments that require it, " Ige said in a statement. "The digital Health Card supports counties that require proof of vaccination at certain businesses and venues. It's another step toward protecting the health and safety of our residents and visitors, while also balancing the need to support local businesses and Hawaii's economy."

Story continues

As of Wednesday, 64.7 % of the state's population was fully vaccinated, and 72.9 % had received at least one dose, according to state data.

About 177, 000 Hawaii residents eligible to receive the shots, out of a total population of 1.42 million, still haven't been vaccinated. Children under the age of 12, who comprise another 216, 000 people, aren't yet eligible.

The pace of vaccinations slowed to a crawl earlier this summer, but has picked up in recent weeks amid the latest surge in COVID-19 cases. The Food and Drug Administration also gave full approval to the Pfizer-BioN Tech's coronavirus vaccine last month, likely swaying more people to get vaccinated, while also paving the way for more vaccine mandates.

In order to obtain a Hawaii SMART Health Card, residents must have received two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or one dose of Johnson & Johnson, followed by a 14-day waiting period. Vaccination information will be automatically verified against the state vaccination database.

The state's database cannot verify certain vaccination records, including vaccination data from the Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs and certain federal vaccine programs.

Unvaccinated residents or those who cannot sign up for the Hawaii SMART Health Card can provide physical documents, including a CDC vaccination card or, when permitted, a negative COVID-19 test result.

The Hawaii SMART Health Card is only available to people vaccinated in Hawaii and can be accessed at after signing up for an account. State officials say they are looking at expanding the system to allow residents to upload negative COVID-19 test results.

The health pass is similar to those rolled out in New York, California and Louisiana.

The push to require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test comes amid the highest surge in coronavirus cases in Hawaii since the start of the pandemic. Hawaii's hospitals have been stretched thin as COVID-19 patients, the majority of whom are unvaccinated, fill intensive care units. There are signs that the sharp rise in cases has started to plateau, but health officials still worry that an increase in hospitalizations could result in health care officials having to begin rationing lifesaving care.

On Wednesday, the Department of Health reported 380 new coronavirus cases, significantly lower than the seven-day average of 702 new cases. But the lower number could reflect fewer people getting tested over Labor Day weekend. So far, hospitalizations have remained steady with 436 hospitalized as of Wednesday, according to Hawaii Lt. Gov. Josh Green, who appeared on the Honolulu Green has said that if the number approaches 500, the state will have to start rationing critical care.

Green also suggested that the state should consider using the newly built 144-bed psychiatric facility at the Hawaii State Hospital if the number of hospitalized patients does outstrip resources. The $160 million forensic facility has sat vacant for months.

The new building was built to provide enhanced security and more space for patients, nearly all of whom have been ordered to the hospital by the courts after committing minor or serious crimes. The patients are currently being housed in other facilities on the hospital's campus.

However, Gov. David Ige quickly shot down the idea.

"The Hawaii State Hospital is a forensic, mental health facility, and so it was never designated as a hospital and certainly I don't believe it has the capacity to provide all of the services necessary for a patient who needs acute care, " said Ige.

Ige said the state was still negotiating with hospital workers on procedures within the new facility, which was slated to open in August.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health, which oversees the hospital, also said in a statement that the facility was not yet licensed for patient care. Neither Ige nor the Health Department provided a date on when patients would be transferred.

Green, in response, noted that it's the Health Department that licenses the hospital and said it's something he believes could be expedited.

"As we search for solutions to the overwhelming surge at our hospitals, whose ICUs are past full capacity, the new Hawaii State Hospital provides a unique opportunity to spare the hospitals the impossible decision to ration care, a decision we should never accept, " Green said by text. "The state hospital, which is still likely several months away from housing people struggling with mental illness and addiction, could almost immediately accom modate people who are discharged from our many stressed hospitals, it could accommodate people who need isolation or quarantine but can't afford it, and it could help bring us back from the brink of the COVID surge."

by
LOS ANGELES  The recall election aiming to oust Gov. Gavin Newsom could make California the next target of right-wing campaigns aiming to discredit the results of an election.

Maybe it already has.

Former President Donald Trump, Fox News' Tomi Lahren and the leading Republican candidate to replace Newsom, Larry Elder, raised the prospect this week of voter fraud playing a role if Newsom comes out victorious in the vote Sept. 14.

The California Republican Party created an election integrity website for voters to report suspicious election activity, aiming to "ensure every vote is counted and verified."

California could become the next focus of costly recount efforts and audits in response to claims of election insecurity. Similar efforts after the 2020 election in states including Arizona, Georgia, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania failed.

One of the recall organizers called the voter fraud claims false and a disservice to the state.

"I think the people, the pundits of the world like Tomi Lahren and others who are fueling this fire, need to back off," Randy Economy, a former Trump campaign volunteer who served as an adviser and spokesman in the recall effort, told USA TODAY.

California recall: New polls favor Newsom by comfortable margin

Keep Gov. Gavin Newsom, or kick him out of office? What to know about California recall election.

Economy, who worked for former Rep. Doug Ose before he dropped out of the recall race for health reasons, applauded California election officials, describing them as "heroes" who are under an "enormous amount of pressure" as they battle being labeled "villains." He said candidates, similarly, shouldn't make voter fraud claims.

"I think it's most important for the candidates to make their case on why they should be the governor and why Newsom should go," Economy told USA TODAY. "To continue to make this a circus-like atmosphere is not doing anybody any good."

Story continues

Vice President Kamala Harris and California Gov. Gavin Newsom wave to supporters on Wednesday during a rally against the California gubernatorial recall election in San Leandro, Calif.

In an interview Tuesday night on Newsmax, Trump predicted the race would be "a rigged election." Trump has repeatedly criticized mail-in voting in California, saying the practice would make the 2020 presidential race the most "INACCURATE AND FRAUDULENT Election in history."

Also Tuesday, Lahren claimed, "The only thing that will save Gavin Newsom is voter fraud." Elder, a conservative radio host who polls show leads the pack of 46 candidates vying to replace Newsom, said Wednesday, "I believe that there might very well be shenanigans, as it were in the 2020 election."

Voter fraud claims garnered momentum late last month after a man was arrested in Torrance, about 20 miles southwest of Los Angeles. He was found with 300 unopened ballots in his car. The ballots were among thousands of other pieces of mail, along with drugs and a loaded firearm. Police said the ballots hadn't been tampered with.

California governor recall election night guide: What to watch for as results come in

California is a primarily blue state, where registered Democrats outnumber Republicans nearly 2 to 1. A Democrat, Newsom was elected in 2018 after he won nearly 62% of the vote, outpacing Republican John Cox by about 24 percentage points. Cox is again running to replace Newsom but lagging in the polls.

The state expanded the accessibility of vote-by-mail before the 2020 election because of the pandemic and allows ballots to be automatically sent to all registered voters. Signatures on ballots are verified by the state, and if one is missing or does not match the person's signature on file, that person will be contacted. Each ballot has its own unique bar code and is watermarked, so officials can verify it, ensure votes are tabulated correctly and prevent votes from those who are not registered or who attempt to vote multiple times.

As of Monday, more than 6 million people, or 27.3% of Californias 22.3 million registered voters, had returned their ballots.

Contributing: Tom Coulter, Palm Springs Desert Sun; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: California recall: Donald Trump, others already claiming voter fraud
Greensboro, NC (27407)

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Areas of patchy fog early. Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 86F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph..

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Cloudy. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 68F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Other wells at the research site showed no detectable amounts of pesticides.

In an Aug. 20 email to Yoder, Tom Buell, administrator for the Department of Environment and Energys Monitoring and Remediation Division, said further testing of the well was being done. Those results have not yet been made public.

Although the concentrations are minuscule -- equal to roughly one drop in a 14,000-gallon pool -- the results show how quickly the compounds can move through the environment, said Shannon Bartelt-Hunt, chair of UNLs Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering in the College of Engineering.

These are compounds that are fairly mobile in water, they dont stick to soil as much as some other types of compounds, and the soils there are more transmissible, Bartelt-Hunt said, referring to the sandy soils in the Todd Valley, the ancient channel of the Platte River that cuts across Saunders County.

Its a sign things from the surface are moving vertically, she added.

But whether vertical movement is happening on AltEns property or is occurring where pesticide-contaminated stormwater is running away from the site toward the Platte River is unknown and in need of further study, Bartelt-Hunt said.
YORK  A deputy with the York County Sheriffs Department and his canine partner, Loki (one of the countys narcotic detection dogs), are responsible for the finding and seizure of 1,420 pounds of marijuana during a traffic stop in York County, on Interstate 80.

This seizure is one of the largest in York County, in recent history.

York County Sergeant Alex Hildebrand said the street value of the marijuana is nearly $3 million.

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Sergeant Hildebrand explained, A York County deputy who was assigned to the York/Seward Interdiction Task Force conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 80 near the York exit. The suspect vehicle was a 2021 Mercedes Sprinter van.

During the contact, the deputy noted the overwhelming odor of raw marijuana coming from the van. The deputy also observed there to be large duffel bags filling the cargo area of the van, Sergeant Hildebrand said further.

Loki alerted to the presence of illegal substances.
New Delhi: Election Commission of India on Thursday (September 9) decided to hold bypolls for the six Rajya Sabha seats, including one each in West Bengal, Assam, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh while two seats in Tamil Nadu, on October 4.

The Rajya Sabha seats have fallen vacant due to various reasons like resignations, death and end of the tenure of members.

The Madhya Pradesh Rajya Sabha (RS) seat got vacant after BJP leader and former Union cabinet minister Thaawarchand Gehlot was elevated as the Karnataka Governor in July.

Election Commission of India to hold Rajya Sabha bypolls for six seats - one each in West Bengal, Assam, Maharashtra & Madhya Pradesh & two seats in Tamil Nadu on October 4 Bypolls for an Assembly Council seat in Bihar to be held on October 4 pic.twitter.com/wj2AU0l7yv  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

The West Bengal Rajya Sabha seat fell vacant after the resignation of TMC leader and cabinet minister in West Bengal government Manas Ranjan Bhunia.

In Assam, the seat held by assembly speaker Biswajit Daimary fell vacant after he resigned from the membership of the upper house of Parliament and his earlier party, the Bodoland People's Front, and joined the BJP before the recent polls in the state.

The two seats in Tamil Nadu fell vacant due to the resignation of AIADMK leaders K P Munusamy and R Vaithilingam who are now members of the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly.

According to reports, the BJP may field Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal from the Assam seat as he is yet to become a member of either house of Parliament.

The Maharashtra seat got vacant due to the death of Congress leader Rajeev Satav in May this year due to COVID-19 infection. In Puducherry, the RS seat will fall vacant soon as the term of incumbent member N Gokulakrishnan ends on October 6.

The EC said in its order that all "broad guidelines of COVID-19" have to be followed during the election process, that is from the time of issue of notification to the counting of votes.

According to the ECI, "The chief secretaries of states concerned are being directed to depute a senior officer from the state to ensure that the extant instructions regarding COVID-19 containment measures are complied with while making arrangements for conducting the election."

Meanwhile, the Election Commission will also conduct bypolls for an Assembly Council seat in Bihar to be held on October 4.

(With Agency Inputs)

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New Delhi: This year, the much-awaited monsoon festival of Hartalika Teej is being celebrated on September 9. The day is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati, with women observing fasts (vrat) seeking their blessings.

The festival of Hartalika Teej is celebrated on the third day of the bright half of the North Indian Lunar month of Bhadrapada.

ALSO READ: Hartalika Teej 2021 Date: Puja timings, shubh muhurat and Lord Shiva-Devi Parvati connection!

WHY WOMEN CELEBRATE HARTALIKA TEEJ?

On this day, women dressed in bright new clothes pray to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. They observe a fast (also known as nishivasar nirjala vrat) which commences during the evening of Hartalika Teej and is broken the next day after a full day's observance which involves women refraining from even drinking water.

The devotees offer their prayers to Mata Parvati, who prayed with utmost dedication and devotion, to get married to Lord Shiva. The goddess is worshipped under the name of Hartalika or Maa Hartalika.

Hartalika Teej is celebrated with much grandeur chiefly in the states of Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra.

WHAT IS TEEJ?

Teej refers to the third day which falls each month after the new moon or the Amavasya, and the third day after the full moon night of every month. There are various types of Teej celebrated in the country. The monsoon festival of Teej includesHaryali Teej, Kajri Teej and Hartalika Teej respectively.

'Teej' basically refers to monsoon festivals celebrated in various parts of the country.

Here's wishing a Happy Hartalika Teej to everyone!
New Delhi: All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi will be starting Phase 2/3 trials of Hyderabad-based COVID-19 vaccine manufacturer Bharat Biotech`s nasal vaccine soon, according to informed sources.

Amid ongoing research in many countries to develop nasal spray to help prevent COVID -19, Bharat Biotech`s intranasal vaccine received regulatory approval for second Phase trials in August.

Sources said that the country`s premier hospital and research center will be starting trials within a couple of weeks and an application has been put to seek the mandatory permission of the AIIMS Ethics Committee.

Bharat Biotech`s nasal vaccine clinical trial`s principal investigator will be Dr Sanjay Rai. After getting the ethics committee`s nod, the second phase of the trials will be conducted on volunteers who will be administered the two doses of the vaccine with a gap of four weeks in between.

The adenoviral intranasal vaccine BBV154 is the first of its kind COVID-19 vaccine to undergo human trials in India. According to the ministry of science and technology, the Phase 1 trial in healthy volunteers of age groups ranging from 18-60 years was well tolerated.

Trials for the Phase 3 trial will commence after the completion of Phase-2 clinical trials. AIIMS Delhi has also done clinical trials of Covaxin in the age group of 2 to 18 years.

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New Delhi: Civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Thursday (September 9) unveiled a 100-day plan to bring major reforms in Indias civil aviation sector. The plan is going to focus on 16 areas including policy measures and the development of airports as well as heliports, aiming to give a boost to the civil aviation sector which has been adversely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and is slowly coming on the recovery path.

We have a 100-day plan for the Ministry on the basis of which we'll be answerable to the stakeholders transparently. Under this 100-day target, we have three main foundations - 1) infrastructure, 2) policy targets and 3) reforms initiative, Scindia said in a press conference.

We have a 100-day plan for the Ministry on the basis of which we'll be answerable to the stakeholders transparently. Under this 100-day target, we have three main foundations - 1) infrastructure, 2) policy targets and 3) reforms initiative: Civil Aviation Min Jyotiraditya Scindia pic.twitter.com/JGtLrMv8uO  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

The 100-day plan has been prepared after combined consultations. Out of the total 16 areas, 8 relate to policy while four pertain to reforms in the aviation sector. Moreover, the minister announced that six heliports would be developed in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand under the regional air connectivity scheme UDAN.

There's a complete ecosystem in civil aviation sector - with airlines, airport operators, we have MROs where maintenance, repair & overall is done, there are flying-training orgs, cargo sector, ground handling sector, aircraft manufacturing sector, Scindia said. Also Read: Future-Reliance deal: SC stays Delhi HC proceedings, asks NCLT, CCI, SEBI not to pass final orders

The ministry also unveiled a new policy for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) activities. The 100-day scheme will continue from 30th August to 30th November. It has 16 main points - 4 of which are under infrastructure, 8 under policy targets, and 4 under reforms, he noted. Also Read: TCS opens biggest recruitment drive': Check eligibility and how to land your dream job

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New Delhi: As the threat of third COVID-19 wave looms large, the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday (September 9) banned the installation of idols at public places on Ganesh Chaturthi, PTI reported.

The decision was taken at a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, where he directed officials to ensure that no Ganesh idol is installed at public places and people celebrate the festival at home, a government spokesman said.

The UP CM also asked the officials to check that no unnecessary crowding happens at any place during the festival. The CM said all necessary arrangements should be made for the festival and religious beliefs of people be given due respect, the spokesman added.

Uttar Pradesh logged 11 new COVID-19 cases and no fresh fatality, which pushed the total tally to 17,09,503 while the death toll stood at 22,863, according to official statement issued on Thursday. Out of the 11 fresh coronavirus cases, three have been reported from Gorakhpur and one each from Allahabad, Gautam Budhnagar, Lucknow, Jalaun, Maharajganj, Varanasi, Auraiya, Mathura. There are currently 199 active COVID-19 infections in the state.

Meanwhile, National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI) chairperson Dr N K Arora emphasised COVID-19 appropriate behaviour is important during the forthcoming festive season. Arora warned that the third wave of COVID-19 can hit the nation if any new mutation emerges during this festive season.

Apart from COVID-19, UP is also combatting dengue which has led to several deaths. Identifying the cause, ICMR Director-General Dr Balram Bhargava said the majority of deaths in Mathura, Agra and Firozabad districts of Uttar Pradesh were due to dengue fever caused by D2 strain. Deaths in Mathura, Agra and Firozabad are due to dengue fever caused by D2 strain, which can cause haemorrhaging that could be fatal," ANI quoted him as saying. Experts say that dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2 or D2) is known to be the most virulent strain and can cause severity in disease.

(With agency inputs)

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New Delhi: The BRICS Delhi declaration on Thursday expressed "concern" over the latest developments in Afghanistan, caution against the country's territory might be used by terrorists as a sanctuary.

The Delhi Declaration was issued after the 13th BRICS summit hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for "settling the situation by peaceful means" and " refraining from violence" when it comes to the ongoing crisis in the country. Summit saw the participation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brazil President Bolsonaro, South Africa President Ramaphosa.

The joint statement stressed on the "need to contribute to fostering an inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue" so as to ensure "stability, civil peace, law and order in the country."

While condemning in the "strongest terms" the terrorist attacks near the Hamid Karzai Kabul International Airport, the declaration underscored the "priority of fighting terrorism, including preventing attempts by terrorist organizations to use Afghan territory as terrorist sanctuary "and to "carry out attacks against other countries, as well as drug trade within Afghanistan."

India has been concerned about Pakistan-based international terror groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba using Afghan territory, something that New Delhi has conveyed during the NSA Ajit Doval and Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, General Nikolay Patrushev meeting earlier this week.

China has its own concerns about Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM), an Uyghur Islamic extremist organization using Afghan territory to destabilise restive Xinjiang further.

The declaration also saw emphasis on the "need to address the humanitarian situation and to uphold human rights, including those of women, children and minorities." Since the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, worry is that the group will not respect the rights of women and other ethnic minorities.

With the announcement of so-called "acting" government by the Taliban which has no representation from women and the presence of the Haqqani network, the fears have only confirmed the true intent of the extremist group which has deep linkages with Pakistan.

During the talks, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brazil President Bolsonaro backed India's line on Afghanistan, especially when it comes to the issue of terrorism.

Sanjay Bhattacharyya, India's G20 Sherpa after the summit said, There is a very strong sense of consensus which is supportive of our perspective on the developments in Afghanistan and in the region.

Afghanistan's geographic proximity with three BRICS countries - India, China and Russia - makes the issue an important part of regional discussion. Next week will see the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit which will be hosted by Tajikistan and Afghanistan yet again will dominate the proceedings. The three BRICS countries are also part of the 8-member SCO grouping.

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New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday informed that a cyclonic circulation is hovering over parts of west Madhya Pradesh and adjoining east Rajasthan extending up to middle tropospheric level tilting southwestwards with height.

The IMD predicted that the circulation is likely to persist for the next three days and a low-pressure area might form over north and adjoining central Bay of Bengal around September 11, which is likely to become more marked during subsequent 48 hours.

In another tweet, IMD said that under the influence of likely formation of a low-pressure area, consequent strengthening of lower-level westerlies along the west coast, north Konkan, south Gujarat region, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh might witness fairly widespread rainfall with very heavy falls during September 12 to September 13.

Informing about the influence of cyclonic circulation over west Madhya Pradesh, IMD predicted that fairly widespread rainfall with isolated heavy to very heavy falls is likely to occur over Gujarat, southeast Rajasthan and west Madhya Pradesh from September 9 to September 12.

"Rainfall activity is likely to increase with heavy falls over south Haryana, southwest Uttar Pradesh from September 11 to September 12. Isolated heavy to very heavy falls is likely over Uttarakhand and isolated heavy falls are likely over the Jammu division and Himachal Pradesh during the next three days," it said in another tweet.

It further informed that reduced rainfall activity is likely to continue over south peninsular India till September 11 and increase thereafter with scattered to fairly widespread rainfall from September 12 and isolated heavy falls are likely over Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh on September 13.

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New Delhi: There are plenty of facts that point to Pakistans role in helping the Taliban capture Panjshir. It has now come to light that there was a quid pro quo involved. According to credible sources, the Taliban sought the help of the Pakistan army to capture Panjshir in return which they promised to help Pakistan in Kashmir.

Zee News Editor-in-Chief Sudhir Chaudhary on Thursday (September 9) discussed the nefarious plan of Pakistan-Taliban to annex Kashmir.

The Panjshir, which was never before captured by any army of the world including the Taliban, finally fell. This was certainly not possible without the help of the Pakistan army.

Many leaders of the Northern Alliance, who fought against the Taliban in Panjshir, had also repeatedly claimed that Pakistan's army was also involved in the battle. Iran has also expressed concern over this and has said that it will investigate the role of Pakistan in Panjshir.

For 74 years, Pakistan is dreaming of capturing Kashmir, yet it has never been able to do so. It is again dreaming the same, this time with the help of the Taliban.

The huge cache of weapons and modern guns that the US army has left behind in Afghanistan will sooner or later fall into the hands of terrorists who want to capture Kashmir. In fact, the smuggling of these weapons has already started through Pakistan and Afghanistan border.

The Taliban are likely to give full support to Pakistan in Kashmir. They will also be supported by terrorist organisations such as Al-Qaeda that has claimed many times that its mission is to liberate Kashmir in the same way that the Taliban liberated Afghanistan.

Despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan could never capture Kashmir, because the Indian Army never let it happen. But with the help of the Taliban, Pakistan is hoping to take Kashmir back to the 1990s.

Many Pakistani leaders have claimed that one day they will hoist their countrys flag not just in Kashmir but also in Delhi. After losing the 1965 war, Pakistan's leader Zulfikar Ali Bhutto openly told the world at the United Nations that they are ready to fight a war with India for a thousand years. After this, when Pakistan lost the war with India even in the year 1971, a new doctrine was prepared in Pakistan Military Staff College, Quetta, in which it was written that since Pakistan can never win in a conventional war with India, they will use terrorism to weaken India. Soon after that, Pakistan started sending terrorists to Punjab and Kashmir to destabilise the region.

Pakistan always wanted to set up a puppet government in Kabul in which terrorists of the Haqqani network get major roles so that it can get help from them later on.

Notably, the incidents of terrorism in Kashmir increased significantly when the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 1996.

Pakistan will try to do the same this time. The Haqqani network can help them in this. The Haqqani network, which is considered an offshoot of Pakistan's intelligence agency ISI, has the most influence in the newly formed Taliban government.

After capturing Afghanistan, the Haqqani terrorists may now turn their attention towards Kashmir. This would give a big advantage to Pakistan. India needs to be prepared.

Read more about Taliban here: Taliban's History

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Barmer: Union Ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari on Thursday inaugurated an emergency landing strip at Satta-Gandhav stretch on National Highway 925 for Indian Air Force (IAF) planes.

A Hercules C-130J plane of the IAF, carrying the two ministers and Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, conducted a mock emergency landing on the national highway on Thursday. NH-925 is India's first national highway to be used for emergency landing of IAF aircraft.

#WATCH | C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari & Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria onboard lands at Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/BmOKmqyC5u  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

The two Union Ministers also witnessed multiple aircraft operations on the emergency landing facility (ELF) of NH-295 on Thursday. Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet also conducted a mock emergency landing at the ELF in front of the two ministers.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, and Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat attend a programme held on the occasion of inauguration of Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/2lLTe7qZVA  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

An-32 military transport aircraft and Mi-17v5 helicopter of the IAF also landed at the ELF, showing its complete operational readiness to act as an auxiliary military airbase.

#WATCH | C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari & Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria onboard lands at Emergency Field Landing at the National Highway in Jalore, Rajasthan pic.twitter.com/BmOKmqyC5u  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the 3-km section of the Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925 as an ELF for the IAF.

In October 2017, fighter jets and transport planes of the IAF had conducted mock landings on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway to show that such highways can be used by the IAF planes for landing in case of an emergency.

The Lucknow-Agra Expressway, which is not a national highway, comes under the Uttar Pradesh government. Officials said a total of 27 other highways, apart from the one in Barmer, are being currently studied jointly by the IAF and the NHAI to see if emergency landing strips can be developed on them.

The emergency landing strip, which was inaugurated on Thursday, is part of the newly developed two-lane paved shoulder of the Gagariya-Bakhasar and Satta-Gandhav section having a total length of 196.97 km and costing Rs 765.52 crore under the Bharatmala Pariyojana.

This highway project will improve connectivity between villages of Barmer and Jalore districts located on the international border. Apart from the emergency landing strip, three helipads (size 100x30 metres each) have been constructed in Kundanpura, Singhania and Bakhasar villages under this project, according to the requirements of the IAF and the Indian Army.

The ELF and three helipads have been developed so as to strengthen the security network on the western international border of the country. During normal time, the ELF will be used for smooth flow of road traffic and during the operations of ELF for the IAF, the service road will be used for smooth flow of road traffic.

The ELF was constructed in 19 months. The work commenced in July 2019 and was completed in January 2021. The work was carried out by GHV India Pvt Ltd under the supervision of the IAF and the NHAI.

(With Agency Inputs)

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New Delhi: In a major decision, the Cabinet Committee on Security on Wednesday approved the procurement of 56 C-295 medium transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force to replace its ageing Avro planes which were first inducted around 60 years ago.

Sixteen aircraft will be delivered in a flyaway condition by the Airbus Defence and Space of Spain within 48 months of signing the contract while the remaining 40 planes will be manufactured in India, according to the defence ministry.

The cost of the procurement is expected to be in the range of Rs 18,000 to Rs 20,000 crore, people familiar with the project said.

The 40 planes will be manufactured in India by a consortium of the Airbus Defence and Space and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) within 10 years of signing the contract.

"Today, Cabinet Committee on Security approved the procurement of 56 C-295MW transport aircraft from M/s Airbus Defence and Space SA, Spain for the Indian Air Force," the defence ministry said in a statement about the decision by the prime minister-led committee.

The C-295MW aircraft is a transport plane of 5-10 tonne capacity.

"Sixteen aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition from Spain within 48 months of the signing of the contract and forty aircraft will be manufactured in India by TATA consortium within 10 years of the signing of the contract," the ministry said.

"This is the first project of its kind in which a military aircraft will be manufactured in India by a private company. All 56 aircraft will be installed with indigenous electronic warfare suite," it said.

The in-principle approval for the Avro replacement programme was accorded around nine years ago.

"All 56 aircraft will be installed with indigenous electronic warfare suite. The project will give a boost to the aerospace ecosystem in India wherein several MSMEs spread over the country will be involved in manufacturing of parts of the aircraft," the ministry said.

A large number of detail parts, sub-assemblies and major component assemblies of aero structure are scheduled to be manufactured in India.

"The programme will act as a catalyst in employment generation in the aerospace ecosystem of the country and is expected to generate 600 highly skilled jobs directly, over 3000 indirect jobs and an additional 3000 medium skill employment opportunities with more than 42.5 lakh man-hours of work within the aerospace and defence sector of India," the ministry said.

"During the process of manufacturing in India, it is expected that all the suppliers of TATA Consortium who will be involved in special processes will gain and maintain globally recognized National Aerospace and Defence Contractors Accreditation Program (NADCAP) accreditation," it said.

The ministry said the programme will provide a major boost to the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan' (self-reliant India initiative) as it offers a unique opportunity for the Indian private sector to enter into technology-intensive and highly competitive aviation Industry.

"The project will augment domestic aviation manufacturing resulting in reduced import dependence and expected increase in exports," it said.

The ministry said before completion of the deliveries, a servicing facility for C-295MW aircraft is scheduled to be set up in India.

"It is expected that this facility will act as a regional MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) hub for various variants of C-295 aircraft," it said.

"In addition, the OEM (original equipment maker) will also discharge its offset obligations through direct purchase of eligible products and services from Indian offset partners giving a further boost to the economy," it added.
Chandigarh: Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij on Thursday said the government is ready for a probe into last month's clash between farmers and police but warned that farm leaders too could face action if they're found to be at fault. Vij offered an "impartial" inquiry into the "entire Karnal episode" as farmers continued their dharna outside the Karnal district headquarters for the third day demanding action over the August 28 lathicharge.

Their main demands centres around the suspension of then SDM Ayush Sinha, who was caught on tape allegedly telling policemen to "break heads" of farmers if they cross the line. The minister made it clear that "nobody can be hanged without a probe just because someone demands it".

"We are ready for an impartial probe, but this will not only be related to (former Karnal) SDM (Ayush Sinha), but the entire Karnal episode. In this (probe), if farmers or their leaders are found guilty, then whatever action is deemed fit will be taken," Vij told reporters in Ambala. The minister, however, said, "Only genuine demands (of farmers protesting in Karnal) can be accepted."

We are ready to conduct a fair investigation but it's not only the SDM (Ayush Sinha) who will be probed, the entire episode will be investigated too. If farmers and their leaders are found guilty, action will be taken against them too: Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij pic.twitter.com/3wvS7yazgq  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

"We cannot hang anyone because someone says so... Is the country's IPC (Indian Penal Code) different and the farmers' IPC different? It cannot be like this and punishment is always given as per the offence committed. To find out the offence, a probe has to be conducted," said Vij referring to their demand of suspending the IAS officer.

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha had earlier said a murder case should be registered against Sinha over his alleged remarks to policemen. About the farmers protesting in Karnal, he said anyone has the right to hold a protest in a peaceful manner. "Farmers are holding an agitation in Karnal which is their democratic right," said Vij, while adding "our officials are regularly holding talks with them. Dialogue is an integral part of any democracy".

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The Haryana government has extended the suspension of mobile Internet services in the district till Thursday midnight, an order issued by state Home Department said. "Mobile Internet services in Karnal district will remain suspended from 07:00 hours till 23:59 hours of September 9," said the order issued on Thursday (September 9).

Another round of talks between district officials and farmers protesting over the police lathicharge had failed on Wednesday after which the protesters said they will continue their sit-in "indefinitely" at the district headquarters. Meanwhile, into the third day of the dharna, protesters are staying put at the gate of the mini-secretariat complex in Karnal, though farm union leaders have said officials and the public won't be stopped from entering it.

A mahapanchayat was held in the city and then the dharna began on Tuesday evening after an earlier round of talks between district officials and the farm leaders had also "failed". Farmer union leaders had earlier sought registration of a case against those involved in the lathicharge in Karnal.

The protest leaders had also claimed that a farmer died after the August 28 violence, an allegation rejected by the administration. The farm leaders had demanded a compensation of Rs 25 lakh and a government job for the family of the deceased farmer.
Jorhat: A day after a boat capsized in the Brahmaputra river, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday (September 9) visited the accident site and met the victims who were rescued at the hospital.

He also ordered the police to register a criminal case and initiate a high-level probe into the incident.

Visited the boat accident site near Nimati Ghat & took stock of the present situation & rescue operations by @NDRFHQ & SDRF. Have directed Jorhat Dist Admin to register a criminal case on the accident. A high-level inquiry will also be instituted today, Sarma said in a tweet.

Visited the boat accident site near Nimati Ghat & took stock of the present situation & rescue operations by @NDRFHQ & SDRF. Have directed Jorhat Dist Admin to register a criminal case on the accident. A high level inquiry will also be instituted today. pic.twitter.com/gLyk9X54l5  Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 9, 2021

He also shared pictures of his meeting with the victims at Jorhat Medical College & Hospital.

I met those injured in boat accident & enquired about their health. Also urged doctors to ensure best treatment, he tweeted.

At Jorhat Medical College & Hospital I met those injured in boat accident & enquired about their health. Also urged doctors to ensure best treatment. We also met other rescued passengers. My gratitude to Good Samaritans whose timely & exemplary interventions saved many lives. pic.twitter.com/pVoANOu4u1  Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) September 9, 2021

The chief minister ordered a ban on all single-engine private boats from plying to Majuli with immediate effect and announced that the construction of a proposed bridge between Jorhat and Majuli will start from November 2021 and will be completed in four years.

He further said, From today, plying of private ferries will be stopped as they don't have marine engine. If owners wish to convert single engine to marine engine, GoA will provide grant of Rs 10 lakh with 75% subsidy.

At least one person is dead and two more are missing after a private boat with 90 people onboard capsized and sank in Brahmaputra on Wednesday evening, following a head-on collision with a government-owned ferry near Nimati Ghat.

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Gender bias and misogyny are so deep rooted in the Indian society that it doesnt even shock anymore when people on responsible posts make bizarre statements. Thankfully, the law is there to take care of such situations.

The principal of a government higher secondary school in Madhya Pradeshs Rajgarh district was booked for allegedly asking girl students, who were not in uniform, to take off their dresses, police said on Sunday.

As per a complaint filed by three girls with Machalpur police station, principal Radheshyam Malviya (50), on seeing them in normal clothes and not the schools uniform, told them to come wearing uniforms next time, an official said.

However, as per the complaint, when the girls replied that they had not got their uniforms stitched as school had just started, but assured him they would do the needful by Monday, Malviya got angry and told them to take off what they were wearing currently, he said.

In a video that went viral on social media, the complainants can be heard saying that the principal told them such dresses were spoiling the boys of the class.

After children from the school protested, we booked Malviya on Saturday evening under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and IPC provisions for use of force intended to dishonour, insult the modesty of woman by words, gesture etc, Machalpur police station sub inspector Jitendra Ajnare told PTI on Sunday.

We are going to get the statement of the three girls recorded in a court on Monday. We had gone to the principals home to arrest him but we couldnt find him, Ajnare said.

When contacted, Rajgarh District Education Officer (DEO) BS Bisoriya said action would be taken in the case after the Machalpur Block Education Officer forwards documents and details about to it to him.

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New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested a Sri Lankan national Arasaratinam Ramesh alias A Ramesh, 37, in Vizhinjam Arms case on Tuesday (September 7). "The accused is a Sri Lankan national and an arms and drugs trafficker having links with Vizhinjam Arms case," said NIA in a statement.

The accused was residing on rented premises in Kerala`s Ernakulam district. The accused was produced before the Special NIA Court in Ernakulam on Wednesday (September 8) and sent to judicial custody.

The case was initially registered on April 5, 2021 at Vizhinjam police station in Kerala`s Thiruvananthapuram district relating to seizure of illegal arms and ammunition from arrested accused aboard Sri Lankan fishing boat Ravihansi in the Arabian Sea.

"Huge quantity of narcotics drug was seized from Sri Lankan fishing boat in the Arabian Sea on March 25-26 this year. Upon investigation in the case it was found that the accused had illegally possessed five AK-47 Rifles and 1,000 9 mm ammunition," NIA stated.

NIA had re-registered the case as of May 1 this year and taken over the investigation. NIA had earlier arrested two accused in the case on August 2 this year.

"Investigation has revealed that arrested accused is the brother of earlier arrested accused Suresh Raj and has been actively assisting him in the collection of arms, ammunition and drugs trafficking through international sea route," the NIA said.

"During a search conducted at his rented premises in Ernakulam earlier, NIA had seized incriminating documents relating to the transactions of drugs and arms," added the NIA.

ALSO READ: India reports rise in COVID-19 infections, Kerala adds 30,196 cases in 24 hours

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New Delhi: A high-level military delegation of Pakistan was on a secret visit to Myanmar from September 1 to September 5, according to sources. Pak military is learnt to have made this overture to build its relation with Myanmar taking a cue from China.

During its visit, Pakistan offered military cooperation with Myanmar defence forces in the field of aircraft repairs, maintenance and Naval munitions.

Myanmar Airforce is using Chinese made JF 17 jets assembled in Pakistan. TJF-17 is co-developed by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex and Chinas Chengdu Aerospace Corporation.

Reports coming in also say that senior Myanmar Police officers are currently taking training in Karachi in the field of mine disposal techniques.

Notably, relations between Pakistan and Myanmar have been strained since the Rohingya crisis of 2017.

The visit of the Pakistan Defence delegation after the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan is very significant as China is constantly trying to enhance its footprints in many countries.

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New Delhi: Congress MP Manish Tewari on September 8 had written to Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, and urged him to seek an explanation from Max Healthcare after it charged a COVID patient 1.8 crore for more than a fouth-month stay.

In a letter to the Ministry of Health, Tiwari said an explanation should be sought from the hospital as to why a a patient was charged Rs 1.8 crore. He also said that the Delhi government should do the same, and conduct an equiry, adding that there's a need to "set up independent regulator for health and pharmaceuticals industry".

Letter to @MoHFW_INDIA @mansukhmandviya urging him to call for an explanation from @MaxHealthcare as to why a patient was charged 1.8 crores.Delhi Govt should do the same

Also to set up independent regulator for Health & Pharmaceuticals industry@attorneybharti @ArvindKejriwal pic.twitter.com/ikr2CaVAql  Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) September 8, 2021

But the matter came to light when a day earlier, on September 7, Aam Admi Party MLA Somnath Bharti had also slammed the hospital in few of his tweets. "What's the maximum you have heard a hospital charging for curing corona? Rs 25 lakh? Rs 50 lakahh? No, it's whopping Rs 1.8 crore!" he wrote on Twitter tagging Max Hospital, Saket. He wrote that the hospital charged this unbelievable amount "to a wife for her husband and then shouted at her when she took my help to ask for a discount. Heartless!"

Whats the maximum you have heard a hospital charging for curing Corona?? 25 lacs? 50 lacs?..no it's whopping 1.8 cr! .@MaxHealthcare Saket charged this unbelievable amount to a wife for her husband n then shouted at her when she took my help to ask for a discount. Heartless!..1/2  Adv. Somnath Bharti  :  ! (@attorneybharti) September 6, 2021

The MLA said that the wife had spent all her savings and possibly sought financial help to pay for this fat medical bill. He condemned the behaviour of the hospital's group head, who he accused of berating the woman, and allegedly saying that the family should be grateful that they saved the patient and not complain of the bill.

Also read: India reports rise in COVID-19 infections, Kerala adds 30,196 cases in 24 hours

The patient, a 51-year-old man, had to be hospitalised for more than four months - he was admitted in April-end and was released in the first week of September this year. A statement by Max Healthcare stated, "The 51-year-old male patient was brought into the Emergency of Max Hospital, Saket on April 28, 2021 suffering from severe Covid pneumonia. He was soon shifted to the ICU. As his health continued to deteriorate he was initiated on ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation) on May 10, 2021 in order to prevent further damage to his COVID-impacted lungs. The patient was managed on ECMO in an awake state for nearly 75 days. The case was extremely challenging as the patient was diabetic, hypertensive and developed multiple complications such as gall bladder infection, weakness and clotting in lower limbs, loss of brain function owing to the liver dysfunction and sepsis. He was taken off the ECMO on July 23, 2021 but the patient continued to stay in the ICU till August 16, 2021. The patient remained hospitalised for almost 4 and half months and was discharged on September 6, 2021. ECMO is a highend and niche technology, available only at selected hospitals across the country and used only in severe heart/lung damage cases. The patients family was apprised of his medical condition and counselled regarding the cost of treatment regularly. The patient and his family were satisfied with the care and treatment received and expressed their appreciation for Max Sakets multi-disciplinary team of senior clinicians and staff. "

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In a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday said there have been efforts since he came to power seven years back to turn the country into a "Hindu Rastra". While referring to the law against instant triple talaq, the Hyderabad MP mentioned the 'plight' of Hindu women, directing a personal barb at Modi.

Ending his three-day trip to Uttar Pradesh, where his party plans to contest 100 seats in the upcoming assembly polls, Owaisi alleged that Dalits and Muslms have become victims of mob lynching since 2014. He mentioned the murder of Mohammad Akhlaq, who was attacked by a mob on suspicion of cow slaughter at a village near Dadri in UP's Gautam Buddh Nagar in 2015. "Such atrocities are taking place because Modi is the prime minister and the BJP government is helping such elements," he charged at a public meeting at the Imambara near Katra Baradari in Barabanki district.

Also watch: Owaisi slams CM Yogi in Barabanki rally, says, "they want to make India a Hindu nation"

Hitting out at the Samajwadi Party, the Congress and the Bahujan Samaj Party, the AIMIM leader said they seek Muslim votes but observe a silence on such attacks on the minority community. "Ever since Narendra Modi became prime minister, efforts are on to demolish secularism and make the country a Hindu Rashtra," he said.

The district administration had initially denied the AIMIM permission to hold the rally but agreed later after an assurance from the organisers.

Criticising the triple talaq law, Owaisi said, "The BJP leaders talk about injustice against Muslim women subject to talaq but remain mum on the issue of the plight of Hindu women discarded by their men."

Owaisi asked why the SP and the BSP "hesitate" to talk against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The law identifies non-Muslim communities in neighbouring countries whose members can seek Indian citizenship on grounds of religious prosecution up to a cut-off date. He also referred to the razing of a mosque in Ram Snehi Ghat tehsil on the Barabanki-Ayodhya border in May by authorities who said it was an illegal structure. But the local community insisted that it had stood there for a century.

The AIMIM chief said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath "sacrificed" the mosque when there was talk of replacing him in the state.

Owaisi hit out at "Modi-Yogi" governments over the deaths of thousands of people during the coronavirus pandemic, attributing them to a shortage of oxygen and lack of proper treatment.

He said bodies of many Covid victims were disrespectfully released in the rivers. The All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen leader began this election tour from Ayodhya district on Tuesday and addressed a public meeting in Sultanpur the next day.

The trip to the politically sensitive state ended with the rally at Barabanki, on the doorsteps of capital Lucknow. Both the SP and the BSP have criticised him for being a "spoiler of Muslims votes" to help the ruling BJP.

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Lucknow: Heralding the arrival of a new era of the states healthcare sector, CM Yogi Adityanath launched all-out efforts in his 4 years of service to the state to make UP a world-class healthcare destination at par with the best in the country.

In the past four years, the health services in Uttar Pradesh have vastly improved with the Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath puts it on its priority. Not only has the state successfully battled with COVID-19 but with various health schemes, the Yogi Government has benefitted lakhs of people.

Under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, more than 6.25 crore persons of the state have been benefited so far, while more than 1.44 crore people have been issued a golden card of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana.

Medical facilities are being provided to needy families through Mukhyamantri Jan Arogya Abhiyan. Under this scheme, over 42.19 lakh eligible beneficiaries have received a cover of Rs 5 lakh each in empanelled hospitals.

Realising the vision of the empowerment of the poorest, CM Yogi has given instructions to organise Garib Kalyan Mela on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay i.e. September 25 in all 826 development blocks of Uttar Pradesh. In this, new people will be linked to Ayushman Yojana .

Rapid Work On Medical Infrastructure In UP

The work of establishing medical colleges under One District One Medical College in 75 districts of the state is going on a war footing. In 16 districts, medical colleges will be established on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The operation of these medical colleges will provide many facilities to the people of the state and they will not have to run to other districts for treatment. A policy is this regard is likely to be finalised in the near future.

These Districts Will Have Medical Colleges on PPP Model

The districts in which medical colleges will be constructed on the PPP model are: Baghpat, Ballia, Bhadohi, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Hathras, Kasganj, Maharajganj Mahoba, Mainpuri, Mau, Rampur, Sambhal, Sant Kabir Nagar, Shamli and Shravasti. The Uttar Pradesh Government will soon introduce a policy on this.

Golden Health Card will be made for registered workers and their families

The state government is preparing to make golden health cards for all the registered workers and their family members. Under the special campaign run by the Labor Department till September 12, golden cards will be made by organizing camps at the offices and blocks of the department.
New Delhi: The CBI has taken over two more FIRs from the Jharkhand Police to look into the alleged conspiracy behind the death of Dhanbad Judge Uttam Anand who was mowed down by a three-wheeler while on a morning jog on July 28, officials said on Wednesday.

One FIR relates to an alleged theft of three mobile phones from the home of one Purnendu Vishwakarma while the other is for the theft of a three-wheeler of Sugnu Devi which was allegedly involved in the incident.

Officials said the theft of the autorickshaw took place days before the incident but was reported to the police only on July 29.

In her complaint, the autorickshaw owner, Sugni Devi, said the vehicle was stolen on the night of July 17 from outside her residence. She claimed that she had tried to trace it on her own but failed hence the delay in reporting the theft.

The owner of the three mobile phones, Purnenedu Vishwakarma, said the devices were stolen on the night of July 28 from his residence while he was asleep. He claimed that he was preoccupied and since mobiles were not very costly he reported the matter on August 13, officials said.

According to Vishwakarma, some people posing to police personnel had visited him on August 10 and told him that the mobile phones were stolen by one Rahul Kumar Verma. It was on this basis that he named Verma in the FIR, they said.

Officials said the CBI wants to look into the claims made by the complainants which is why the FIRs were taken over from the Jharkhand Police. These cases were reported as isolated incidents by the state police.

Going by the procedure, the agency has taken over these FIRs as its own cases.

The CBI conducted narco-analysis on two accused, autorickshaw driver Lakhan Verma and his accomplice Rahul Verma, who was named as accused in mobile theft case too, nearly 15 days after the incident involving the judge.

The agency has also increased the reward amount for information about the crime to Rs 10 lakh. The 49-year-old judge was allegedly mowed down by a heavy autorickshaw in Dhanbad while he was on a jog on the morning of July 28.

CCTV footage showed that Uttam Anand was jogging on one side of a fairly wide road at Randhir Verma Chowk when the vehicle veered towards the judge, hit him from behind and fled.

The CBI has recreated the accident scene, while experts of the Central Forensic Scientific Laboratory have collected evidence from the spot.

After being handed over the case by the Jharkhand government, the CBI dispatched a 20-member team under its ace investigator V K Shukla, recently awarded among best investigators by the Union Home Ministry, to investigate the matter.

The Jharkhand High Court and the Supreme Court have also kept an eye on the case.

The Jharkhand High Court bench of Chief Justice Dr Ravi Ranjan and Justice Sujit Narayan Prasad had directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to initiate a probe at the earliest. The court had also directed the government to hand over all the documents of the case to the CBI.

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New Delhi: Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) is looking to hire engineers and supervisors in civil discipline. Interested candidates can apply on the official website of BHEL at bhel.com.

The last date to submit the application form is September 24. The BHEL recruitment drive will fill up to 7 vacancies of engineer (FTA-Civil) and 15 vacancies of supervisor (FTA-Civil).

Eligibility criteria:

Engineer (FTA- Civil)

Candidates must have bachelors degree in engineering/technology in civil engineering. Candidates should have 2 years' post qualification experience in execution of reinforced cement concrete structures (RCC) / structural steel fabrication and erection work / Piling work/ RCC Chimney in infrastructural industries such as power plant, steel plant, cement plant, refineries, petro-chemicals or any other large scale industrial / infrastructure projects.

Supervisor (FTA-Civil)

Interested candidates must possess full-time diploma in civil engineering from a recognised Indian University/ Institute with minimum 60% marks in aggregate for General/OBC/EWS and SC/ST candidates should have minimum 50% marks. Candidates should have 2 years' post qualification experience in execution of Reinforced Cement Concrete Structures (RCC)/ structural steel fabrication and erection work/ piling work/ RCC chimney in infrastructural industries such as power plant, steel plant, cement plant, refineries, petro-chemicals or any other large scale industrial / infrastructure projects.

Age limit:

Candidates should not be more than 34 years of age as on September 1, 2021. However, for OBC (Non Creamy Layer) category, the upper age limit is relaxable by 3 years and for SC/ST category candidates, it is relaxable by 5 years.

BHEL Recruitment 2021: How to apply

1. Visit the official BHEL website at bhel.com

2. Click on "Current Job Openings" under 'Career with BHEL' section on the homepage

3. A new page will open, click on BHEL PSER needs experienced Engineers and Supervisors in Civil discipline on Fixed Tenure Appointment basis"

4. Click on 'Apply Online' and then 'I accept'

5. Choose your preferred post and click on 'Submit' option

6. Fill the application form and submit

7. Download the form for future reference

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New Delhi: The Punjab police department has announced openings for Constables in Technical and Support Services (TSS) Cadre. A total of 2340 vacancies have been notified out of which 3 percent posts have been reserved for sportspersons.

The Punjab Police recruitment will be done for the following domains: Information Technology Services (IT), Community & Victim Support and Counselling Services, Forensic Sciences (FS), Human Resource Management, Legal Services and Road Safety and Regulation.

Interested candidates can apply for the jobs on iur.ls/punjabpolicerecruitment2021.

Punjab Police Constable Recruitment - Important Dates:

Start date of online application  September 9, 2021 (9 am)

Last date to apply  September 29 (23:59 pm)

Punjab Police Constable Recruitment - Age Limit:

The minimum and the maximum age of recruitment for Constables will be 18 years and 28 years respectively as on January 1, 2021.

Punjab Police Constable Recruitment - Selection Process:

The selection process will be conducted in 2 phases - Phase-I (Test 1 and Test 2) and Phase-II (Physical Measurement Test, the Physical Screening Test and Document Scrutiny).

The final merit list shall be released on the recruitment portal iur.ls/punjabpolicerecruitment2021 and the official website of Punjab Police punjabpolice.gov.in.

Also Check: Coal India Recruitment 2021: Last day to apply for 588 Engineer vacancies tomorrow, pay scale up to Rs 1.6 lakh

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New Delhi: Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has directed advised the state health officials to be cautious against the Nipah virus and to take more precautions to prevent its outbreak.

Addressing the media in New Delhi, Bommai said on Wednesday that the officials have been advised to take precautionary measures in the wake of Nipah virus cases reported in the neighbouring state of Kerala.

"The health department secretaries and a panel of experts have been instructed to take early measures," he stated. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Govinda Karajola, ministers V Somanna and CC Patil and MP Shivakumar Udasi were also present with the chief minister.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Karnataka government issued an advisory to prevent the outbreak of Nipah virus infection in the state and instructed the district administrations to monitor the arrivals from Kerala for symptoms like fever, altered mental status, severe weakness, headache, respiratory distress, cough, vomiting, muscle pain, convulsion and diarrhoea.

It also instructed the authorities to spread public awareness in this regard and develop a systematic surveillance system to identify clusters of encephalitis cases for early detection of Nipah outbreaks.

Meanwhile, Kerala reported its first death due to the Nipah virus on Sunday following which the Centre advised immediate public health measures for the state.

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Mumbai: Equity benchmarks Sensex and Nifty ended marginally higher on Thursday led by gains in Bharti Airtel, Nestle India and TCS despite negative cues from global markets.

After trading in a range through the day, the 30-share Sensex ended 54.81 points or 0.09 per cent higher at 58,305.07 -- its all-time closing high.

The NSE Nifty rose 15.75 points or 0.09 per cent to settle at 17,369.25.

Bharti Airtel was the top gainer in the Sensex pack, jumping around 3 per cent, followed by Nestle India, Tata Steel, Bajaj Finserv, HCL Tech and ITC.

On the other hand, Titan, UltraTech Cement, Bajaj Auto, HDFC Bank and Axis Bank were among the laggards.

"There is slight risk-off mode in global markets during the last few days and this has impacted the bullish sentiments in India too," said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

Many experts feel that there can be a correction in the large caps that have been leading the rally this year. So part of the fresh money is now moving into new areas like PSU banks. But this is likely to be a short-term trend, he noted.

Elsewhere in Asia, bourses in Hong Kong, Tokyo and Seoul ended with losses, while Shanghai was positive.

Equities in Europe were trading on a negative note in mid-session deals.

Meanwhile, international oil benchmark Brent crude rose 0.29 per cent to USD 72.81 per barrel.

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#mute
New Delhi: As Mumbai reels under high daily COVID-19 cases, the city police issued instructions to celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. The Mumbai police have banned darshan of Ganapati idols in pandals and directed the organizers to arrange digital darshan, ANI reported.

The city police have imposed Section 144 CrPC from September 10-19. More than 5 people will not be allowed to gather at a place. No Ganpati processions will be allowed, the police said in its order.

Mumbai Police issues an order, prohibiting darshan of Ganapati idols in pandals on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi; says organizers should arrange digital darshan  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

Mumbai Police impose Sec 144 CrPC in Mumbai from 10-19 Sept. No Ganpati processions will be allowed. More than 5 people not allowed to gather at a place. Devotees to take darshan of Lord Ganesha online. Order applicable under the jurisdiction area of Mumbai Police Commissionerate  ANI (@ANI) September 9, 2021

The decision comes as the Maharashtra government on Wednesday (September 8) prohibited Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at public places in view of COVID-19. People have been advised to celebrate the festival at home. "It is prohibited to visit the idol of Lord Ganesha or visit the mandap and darshan should be made available online or through electronic means," a statement released by the Maharashtra Home ministry said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar had said a third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic has already arrived, only to clarify later that she meant the third wave was at the "threshold of Mumbai". "Given the experience of the first two waves, it is in our hands to to stop it," Pednekar was quoted as saying by an official release.

Meanwhile, Mumbai on Wednesday logged 530 new coronavirus infection cases, the highest since mid-July this year, and four fatalities, a senior Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) official said, as per PTI. The caseload in the financial capital mounted to 7,47,608 and the death toll reached 16,004. The city has 3,895 active COVID-19 cases, and its average recovery rate is 97 per cent, the official added.

This year, Mumbai reported the highest number of 11,163 daily cases on April 4, 2021, while the highest 90 fatalities were witnessed on May 1, 2021.

With 4,174 new coronavirus cases and 65 fresh fatalities on Wednesday, the total tally of infections rose to 64,97,872 and the toll to 1,37,962 in Maharashtra, a health department official said. The state has currently 47,880 active coronavirus cases.

(With agency inputs)

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Mumbai: Bollywood star Kareena Kapoor Khan says she felt 'terrible' when she was trolled for naming her sons Taimur and Jehangir. In a recent interview with The Guardian, the 40-year-old talked about her pregnancy phase, her new book 'Kareena Kapoor Khan's Pregnancy Bible', trolling around the names of her children she shares with actor-husband Saif Ali Khan.

The star couple welcomed their second baby, a boy on February 21 this year. They have faced a lot of criticism on social media over the names of their kids.

Referring to the trolling as 'unfathomable', Kareena said these are the names that they had liked and that there is nothing much more to it. "Honestly, these are names that we just liked; it's nothing else. They are beautiful names and they're beautiful boys. It's unfathomable why somebody would troll children. I feel terrible about it, but I have to just focus and get through it. I can't be looking at my life through the trolls," the actor told the British newspaper.

While the pair had revealed the name of their first child Taimur, born in 2016 to the media, they refrained from doing so when it came to their newborn. The name of their second son Jehangir, also called Jeh, however, surfaced on social media when her recent book was released. When asked if she was worried about the religiously polarised India in which her children are growing up, Kareena said, "Please don't ask me this question. You know how it is; it's very complicated. I'm really sorry."

She also discussed the issue of pay parity in Bollywood and the never-ending debate on nepotism. Addressing the issue of equal pay, Kareena said there has been a shift in Bollywood as a lot of female actors have started being vocal about it. "Just a few years ago, no one would talk about a man or woman actually getting equal pay in a movie. Now there are a lot of us being very vocal about it," she said.

"I make it quite clear what I want and I think that respect should be given. It's not about being demanding, it's about being respectful towards women. And I think things are kind of changing," she added. Kareena, who hails from the iconic Kapoor film family of the Indian film industry, said she has got work purely on the basis of her hard work. "When Karisma (her elder sister) joined the film industry, she was the only one in the family working. So it was us, the women, who took the dynasty forward," she said.
New Delhi: Superstar Akshay Kumar's mother, Aruna Bhatia left this world for her heavenly abode on September 8, 2021. A day after, the actor turned a year older, and on his special day, he shared a picture with his late mom, missing her immensely.

Akshay Kumar wrote: Would have never liked it this way but am sure mom is singing Happy Birthday to me from right up there! Thanks to each one of you for your condolences and wishes alike. Life goes on.

Would have never liked it this way but am sure mom is singing Happy Birthday to me from right up there! Thanks to each one of you for your condolences and wishes alike. Life goes on. pic.twitter.com/PdCGtRxrvq  Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) September 9, 2021

Bellbottom star broke the news of his mother's demise on social media and several celebrities including an ocean of fan following extended condolences.

The exact cause of her death is still unknown, although she was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Hiranandani Hospital in Mumbai a few days back.

Her last rites were performed on the same day in the afternoon at Pawan Hans Crematorium in suburban Mumbai. Many Bollywood big shots including Rohit Shetty, Riteish Deshmukh, Sajid Khan, Bhushan Kumar and Ramesh Taurani among many others paid their last respects.

Inconsolable Akshay with his wife Twinkle Khanna, her cousin Karan Kapadia were seen at the funeral.

Several celebrities such as Ajay Devgn, Salman Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Dia Mirza, Vindu Dara Singh among others extended condolences and mourned the demise of Akshay's mother.

Also, in the evening, Akshay was seen at director Aanand L Rai's residence as latter's mother too died on September 8, 2021. He extended condolences for his major loss.
New Delhi: Shershaah actor Sidharth Malhotra paid a heartfelt tribute to Captain Vikram Batra on his birth anniversary on Thursday (September 9). Sidharth took to his Instagram to thank Vikram Batra for his valour, wisdom and love for the nation. The army Captain died at the age of 25, during the Kargil War after capturing the Battle of Point 5140 from the Pakistani army in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dear Shershaah, They say that those who touch our lives, stay in our hearts forever. And Captain Vikram Batra, you have touched our lives immensely with you valour, wisdom, charm & love for the nation. You will stay in our hearts forever...In your loving memory, Jai Hind, the actor captioned his post along with a collage of Vikram Batra made by Karan Johars Dharma Productions.

Sidharth recently appeared in the Dharma Productions film Shershaah where he essayed the role of Captain Vikram Batra. The movie was released on Amazon Prime Videos and was appreciated by both audiences and critics. Shershaah has also become the most-watched movie on Amazon Prime Videos.

The film also stars Sidharth Malhotras rumoured girlfriend actress Kiara Advani in the role of Vikrams fiance Dimple Cheema.

On the work front, Sidharth will next be seen in Shantanu Bagchis Mission Majna along with South superstar Rashmika Mandanna.
New Delhi: A large asteroid nearly twice the size of the Empire State Building in New York will fly past Earth on Thursday (September 9, 2021), according to the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's asteroid database browser.

The asteroid known as 2010 RJ53, is approximately 774 meters (2,539.37 feet) in diameter will zoom past the planet today. The asteroid will pass by approximately 366,000 kilometers away from the planet which means it will be closer to earth than the moon.

Despite the close distance, it is very unlikely that 2010 RJ53 will impact the Earth. NASA has already declared the planet free of any risk of an asteroid impact for the next century.

Though, there is danger of a potential gravitational tug which can change an object's path. The danger of an asteroid impact remains among the worst possible natural disasters that could happen to the planet.

Reasearchers and astronomers around the world, including NASA monitor nearby asteroids and calculate their trajectory to see if they pose any threat to the planet.

Asteroids frequently fly by the Earth, with asteroids the size of the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt and another the size of the US Pentagon having passed by earth in late August.
New Delhi: Global smartphone brand realme on Thursday launched two new smartphones -- realme 8s 5G and realme 8i -- and along with that, the company has introduced its first-ever tablet for the Indian consumers.

The realme 8s 5G will be available in two storage variants 6GB+128GB and 8GB+128GB priced at Rs 17,999 and Rs 19,999, respectively. While realme 8i is priced at Rs 13,999 for the 4GB+64GB and Rs 15,999 for the 6GB+128GB variant.

The realme Pad will be available in three storage and connectivity variants -- 3GB+32GB (Wi-Fi) priced at Rs 13,999, 3GB+32GB (Wi-Fi+4G) at Rs 15,999 and 4GB+64GB (Wi-Fi+4G) at Rs 17,999.

"The two new additions in our number series -- realme 8s 5G and realme 8i -- are yet another testimony in realme's commitment to introduce the industry's first products for its consumers, providing them with a never-before experience," Madhav Sheth, Vice President, realme and Chief Executive Officer, realme India and Europe, said in a statement.

Equipped with a 90Hz ultra-smooth display and a 6.5-inch full screen, the realme 8s 5G houses 5000mAh battery with a 33W Dart charge. It features a 64MP nightscape camera and has a 16MP AI Beauty Selfie camera.

The smartphone is powered by MediaTek Dimensity 810 5G processor and it comes in universe blue and universe purple colour options.

realme 8i features a 6.6-inch LCD display with 120Hz refresh rate, 5000mAh battery with an 18W Fast Charge. It is the first smartphone in India to be powered by MediaTek Helio G96 processor.

The smartphone has a 50MP AI triple Camera and a 16MP selfie camera. It will be available in two colours -- space black and space purple.

Meanwhile, the company's first tab -- realme Pad -- comes with a 10.4-inches WUXGA+ full screen. It is powered by an octa-core MediaTek Helio G80 gaming processor.

"With the launch of realme Pad, we have strengthened our vision towards creating an interconnected world to make everything connected to let everyone of you have the opportunity to enjoy technology-connected life," Sheth said.

The tablet features an 8MP ultra-wide-angle front camera. It is equipped with a 7100mAh mega battery and also supports an 18W quick charge. It will be available in two colours -- real Grey and Real Gold.

The company also said that the 3GB+32GB (Wi-Fi) version will be available soon.

realme has also unveiled two new Bluetooth speakers -- Cobble Bluetooth Speaker and Pocket Bluetooth Speaker.

The first sale for realme 8s 5G and realme 8i are scheduled for September 13 and September 14, respectively. While the realme Pad is scheduled for September 16. Both the smartphones and realme pad will be on realme.com, Flipkart and mainline channels.
New Delhi: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (September 9) said that Afghanistan should not become a source of terrorism and turn into a threat to its neighbouring countries. Russian President made the statement at the 13th BRICS summit, which was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The withdrawal of US forces and its allies from Afghanistan has led to a new crisis, and it's still unclear how this will affect global and regional security. It is for good reason that our countries have paid special attention to this issue, Putin said at the virtual summit also attended by Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

He added, Afghanistan should not become a threat to its neighbouring countries, a source of terrorism and drug trafficking.

Further, Putin asserted that Russia is ready to continue cooperation with its partners in the BRICS group in all fields. "I expect our work today to be substantive and fruitful and I would like to point out once again that Russia is ready to continue close cooperation with all BRICS members in all fields," Putin said as per Russia's official TASS news agency, PTI reported.

The theme for this years BRICS summit was "Intra-BRICS cooperation for continuity, consolidation and consensus." Praising the theme chosen by India, Putin said it is quite 'relevant'. In fact, this is the goal that the entire international community is facing and five BRICS members play a significant and notable role in achieving this goal, the Russian President said.

The BRICS summit ended with the leaders adopting New Delhi Declaration on Afghanistan, where the BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) leaders called for refraining from violence and settling the situation by peaceful means in the war-torn nation, via inclusive intra-Afghan dialogue to ensure stability, civil peace, law and order in the country, ANI reported.

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New Delhi: Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on Thursday (September 9, 2021) arrested a top leader of the banned militant outfit Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) Imdadul Haque alias Uzzwal Master from Dhaka's Basila area.

In an operation launched at midnight, the RAB raided a house in Mohammadpur area where he had taken shelter. Acting on a tip-off, the RAB team cordoned off a nearby building early Thursday morning, RAB Spokesperson Commander Khandaker Al Moin told Dhaka Tribune.

RAB seized a huge cache of arms and ammunition, a bullet-proof vest, 3 lac Bangladeshi taka and some Jihadi literature. He is being questioned.

Imdadul Haque was living on rent and had introduced himself as a worker at a printing press. He had even told the landlord that soon his family members will stay with him.
Beijing: China`s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday announced USD 31 million aid to Afghanistan, endorsing the new caretaker government "Islamic Emirate" of Taliban. Hua Chunyin, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, said the decision was announced during the first meeting of the foreign ministers of Afghanistan`s neighbouring countries and would be "for emergency use to the Afghan people", reported CNN.

China will provide almost USD 31 million worth of food, winter weather supplies, vaccines, and medicine to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also announced that China will donate 3 million vaccine doses to Afghanistan in the first batch, according to the Chinese state news agency Xinhua.

It is not clear when the vaccines are scheduled to be delivered, reported CNN.

Speaking at the Foreign Minister`s meeting in Beijing via video link, Wang also said the United States and its allies were more obligated than any other country to provide economic and humanitarian assistance to the Afghan people.

Following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and subsequent Taliban takeover, Wang said the US should "assume their responsibilities" in the country by helping ensure its development and stability while "respecting the sovereignty and independence of Afghanistan," Xinhua reported.

On Tuesday, the Taliban announced the formation of a hardline interim government for Afghanistan, filling top posts with veterans of the Islamist militant group who oversaw the 20-year fight against the US-led military coalition.

China shares a 50-mile (80 kilometres) border with China`s western region of Xinjiang at the end of the narrow Wakhan Corridor and has a substantial investment in the wider region through Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Following a high-profile meeting between Taliban leaders and the Chinese foreign minister in Tianjin in July, Wang called the Taliban "an important military and political force in Afghanistan" and declared that they would play "an important role in the country`s peace, reconciliation and reconstruction process", reported CNN.

In return, the Taliban called China a "good friend" and pledged to "never allow any forces to use the Afghan territory to engage in acts detrimental to China," according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry at the meeting.

Last week, a Taliban spokesperson called for closer relations with Beijing in an interview with Chinese state broadcaster CGTN.

"China is a very important and strong country in our neighbourhood, and we have had very positive and good relations with China in the past," Zabihullah Mujahid said. "We want to make these relations even stronger and want to improve the mutual trust level."

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New Delhi: The Australian High Commissioner Barry O'Farrell has expressed "deep disappointment" over "lack of inclusiveness" when it comes to the Talibans announcement on the new government in Afghanistan. The Taliban on Tuesday announced a 33-member government, which is being led by Prime Minister Mohammad Hassan Akhund and two deputies-- Maulavi Abdul Salam Hanafi and Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar. 17 of whose names have been announced are on the United Nation's terror list.

Envoy Barry O'Farrell said, "Australia is deeply disappointed by the lack of inclusion in the new governments make up, particularly there are no women, no representation from Hazara community, no ethnic minorities, no members of the former govt, it includes two members of Haqqani, Haqqani network which as we know is a terrorist organization.

Kabul fell to the Taliban on August 15 and since then heartbreaking visuals have emerged of people-- Afghans and foreigners trying to leave the country. Resistance is also taking shape in Panjshir, which is still not under complete Taliban control even though the group has claimed otherwise.

The Australian high commissioner said, his country is "consulting our closest partners in ensuring a joint approach in the engagement with the Taliban", listing the focus is that "Taliban ensures safe passage" to those who want to leave "cease violence, peruses an inclusive govt, prevents violent extremism within Afghanistan, prevents outward terrorism from Afghanistan, pursues an inclusive government, prevents growth of extremism within Afghanistan, prevents terrorism from Afghanistan and upholds human rights, particularly of women and girls", adding "we will judge the govt of Afghanistan by its action and shape engagement with Taliban."

The worry over Afghanistan becoming safe have for international terrorists has been raised by several countries. India has specifically mentioned about the territory might be used by Pakistan-based international terror groups like Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The comments by the Australian envoy come just a day before Australian foreign and defense ministers land in Delhi for the first India-Australia 2+2 ministerial dialogue on Saturday. The meet will see the participation of Defense minister Rajnath Singh and EAM S Jaishankar from the Indian side. The meet will naturally see discussions on many issues like Afghanistan, an aggressive China, Indo Pacific coordination.

Australia wants to do much more with India with both countries being ambitious about the ties. Under Malabar exercises, forces of India, US, Australia and Japan are undertaking exercises in Guam. Part 2 of the exercise will take place in Bay of Bengal from September 11 to 14. Both are part of the Quad and leaders of grouping are expected to meet in Washington later this month for the first in-person summit.
The first international commercial flight since the end of last month's chaotic Western airlift from Afghanistan left Kabul airport on Thursday (September 9) with more than 100 passengers on board, officials said. As well as offering hope to people still stranded in Afghanistan and fearful of the new Taliban government, the event marked an important step in the Islamist group's efforts to bring a degree of normality back to a country facing economic collapse and a humanitarian crisis.

"We managed to fly the first plane with passengers just an hour ago," Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said in Islamabad, thanking Taliban leaders for helping reopen the airport. About 113 passengers were on board, including US, Canadian, Ukrainian, German and British citizens, a source with knowledge of the matter said.

The flight, operated by state-owned Qatar Airways, later landed at Doha's Hamad International Airport, Al Jazeera news channel reported. The source said the passengers were taken to Kabul airport in a Qatari convoy after safe passage was agreed. In Doha, they will initially stay in a compound hosting Afghan and other evacuees.

Although international flights have flown in and out with officials, technicians and aid in recent days, this was the first such civilian flight since the hectic evacuation of 124,000 foreigners and at-risk Afghans that followed the Taliban`s seizure of the capital on Aug. 15. Qatari special envoy Mutlaq bin Majed al-Qahtani described Thursday`s flight as a regular one and not an evacuation. There would also be a flight on Friday (September 10), he said.

Also read: 7-8 people would beat us up with sticks till we passed out: Journalists recall Taliban horror

"Call it what you want, a charter or a commercial flight, everyone has tickets and boarding passes," al-Qahtani said from the tarmac, quoted by Al Jazeera. "Hopefully, life is becoming normal in Afghanistan." Reuters could not immediately confirm if any Afghan nationals who did not have a passport from a second country were onboard.

The flight came two days after the Taliban announced an interim government made up of men, including Islamist hardliners and some wanted by the United States on terrorism charges. Foreign countries saw the new government`s make-up as a signal the Taliban would not try to broaden their base and show a more tolerant face as they had suggested they would do.

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Tokyo: Japan extended emergency COVID-19 restrictions on Thursday (September 9) in Tokyo and other regions until the end of this month to curb infections and prevent hospitals being overwhelmed.

Announcing the extension, ratified earlier by an advisory panel, Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said it was needed to shore up a medical system still stretched by serious cases even though new infections were falling and vaccinations were rising.

"Inoculation of all those who wish to be vaccinated will be completed in October or November," Suga told reporters. "And from then, we will be able to ease restrictions by using proof of vaccination or testing results."

Japan has been struggling with a fifth wave of the virus and last month extended its long-running curbs until Sept. 12 to cover about 80% of its population.

The number of severe cases and the strain on the medical system have not eased sufficiently in Tokyo and surrounding areas to allow restrictions to be lifted. The measures will now stretch until Sept. 30, including for Osaka in the west.

Japan`s emergency curbs have centred on asking restaurants to close early and refrain from serving alcohol. Residents are being urged to work from home as much as possible and refrain from travel.

Some signs of improvement around Japan mean two prefectures out of 21 will move from the state of emergency measures to more targeted restrictions, and a number of other prefectures will remove all curbs.

"I believe we`re starting to see results, but it`s still too early to lower our guard," Health Minister Norihisa Tamura said.

INTERNATIONAL ENTRY RESTRICTIONS

The Nikkei newspaper reported that the government was moving towards easing international entry restrictions by reducing quarantine times for vaccinated travelers. The move has been urged by Keidanren, Japan`s main business lobby, and foreign chambers of commerce.

"We welcome any proposal to re-open Japan`s borders to business travel, as part of a science-based approach to preserving public health," Christopher LaFleur, special advisor to the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, said.

LaFleur said many of Japan`s top trade partners allow vaccinated travelers to enter freely and mandate quarantines of 10 days for those without shots, and that it was "reasonable that Japan adopt the same policy."

Local media have reported that the government may allow restaurants to resume regular business hours and alcohol sales as the vaccination push nears completion in October and November.

Authorities are considering plans that would reward businesses that maintain current infection controls, such as foot traffic limits, or encourage in-store checks of vaccination and testing status. About half of the population has now been fully vaccinated in Japan.

Tokyo`s new daily coronavirus infections totaled 1,834 on Wednesday. Japan has reported around 1.6 million cases and 16,436 deaths but the death rate has declined in the latest outbreak. The 1% fatality rate compares with 1.6% in the United States and 1.9% in Britain.

Shigeru Omi, Japan`s chief health advisor, said on Wednesday (September 8) the pandemic fight was shifting to focus more on the threat of new viral variants or a possible decline in the effectiveness of vaccines.

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Kabul: With help from countries likes Qatar, Turkey and UAE, the Kabul airport is expected to be operational for international flights in three days, a media report said on Thursday (September 9).

According to the Khaama News report, the technical teams from Qatar and Turkey are working alongside Afghan engineers at the Hamid Karzai International Airport.

"The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan asked Qatar and Turkey to send their experts and help them in repairing the airport which was made ready for domestic flights in three days but international flights are yet to take off and land from the airport, the report said.

"Big screens, computers, scanners, and other electronics have been donated by Qatar and UAE and the technical teams are now busy installing them in terminals," it added.

The report said that damages worth up to $20 million were inflicted on the airport amid the US troops withdrawal and massive evacuation carried out by several other countries till August 31.

The Taliban have allowed people with relevant documents to travel abroad after the announcement of the interim government on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, China has announced USD 31 million aid to Afghanistan, endorsing the new caretaker government. Hua Chunyin, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, said the decision was announced during the first meeting of the foreign ministers of Afghanistans neighbouring countries.

The country will provide funds for food, winter weather supplies, vaccines, and medicine to the Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also announced that China will donate 3 million vaccine doses to Afghanistan in the first batch, according to the Chinese state news agency Xinhua.

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Kabul: The Taliban has introduced several conditions to restrict protests in Afghanistan after forming a new government in the country. These conditions include taking permission from the Ministry of Justice while purpose, slogans, place, time and all 'other' details of the protest need to be shared with the government authorities, as reported by Pajhwok News.

Details of the protest need to be shared with the security agencies 24-hours prior to the protest. The interim Taliban government added that any consequences for those who protest without approval would be their own responsibility.

The developments came amid an increase in the protests against the Taliban in the country. The Taliban gunmen recently fired into the air to disperse anti-Pakistan protesters in Kabul.

Video clips on Tuesday showed people running as gunfire was heard. There were no immediate reports of injuries. People were protesting against the Taliban and Pakistan's alleged interference in Afghanistan's affairs, with the Islamist group calling the neighbouring nation its "second home".

Earlier on Wednesday, residents of Faizabad took to the streets to support the resistance in their fight against the Taliban.

On September 7, a group of women also held a protest in Balkh province calling to preserve the achievements of the past 20 years and demanding women`s representation in the future government in Afghanistan.

Similar protests were also held in Kabul, Parwan and Badakhshan province. These protests are being held majorly by Afghan women to demand rights and female representation in the caretaker government formed by the Taliban in the war-torn country.

As the Taliban took control of Afghanistan once again after 20 years, experts believe that Afghan women are most likely to face an uncertain future under the terrorist group regime.

The Taliban`s seizure of the war-torn country came after international forces withdrew from Afghanistan, with the United States officially beginning its departure back in May and now it`s on the verge of ending its military mission.

Dr Sajjan Gohel, a security and terrorism analyst, had informed that women are scared out of their (Taliban) minds, according to Four Nine, a prominent womens magazine in the West.

"From the Afghan women I`ve spoken to, it`s incredibly traumatic. You`re looking at an entire generation who only read about the Taliban in books. Now, they`re having to live side-by-side with what is effectively a misogynistic cult" Dr Gohel added.

He also said that he believes we are going to see a return "to some degree of what we saw in the 1990s".

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Kuwait City: US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin III met Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah on Wednesday (September 8) to extend gratitude to the Persian Gulf country for assisting the US in evacuating citizens from war-torn Afghanistan.

"Just met w/ the Kuwaiti Prime Minister, Minister of Defense & Minister of Interior to thank Kuwait for its crucial support in facilitating the safe transit of US citizens and evacuees from Afghanistan, and reaffirmed our bilateral strategic partnership," Lloyd said in a tweet.

Separately, the Secretary met Prime Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Minister of Defense Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah, and Minister of Interior Sheikh Thamer Ali Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah to discuss opportunities for advancing the US-Kuwait partnership, a statement from the US Department of Defence informed.

Lloyd is travelling to visit four Persian Gulf nations including Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to meet with the regional partners and thank them for their cooperation during the evacuation from Afghanistan, Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said on Friday (September 3).

Meanwhile, the Secretary also had the opportunity to meet with US service members to thank them for their efforts in support of Operation ALLIES REFUGE.

His engagements included a meeting with members of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and the Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force, Crisis Response, based in Kuwait.

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New Delhi: After ending the 20-year war in Afghanistan, the US is not in a hurry to recognise the new Taliban-led interim government, PTI cited a top White House official as saying.

Addressing reporters on Wednesday (September 8), White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said, "No one in this administration, not the President nor anyone on the national security team, would suggest that the Taliban are respected and valued members of the global community. They have not earned that in any way, and we have never assessed that. This is a caretaker cabinet that does include four former imprisoned Taliban fighters.

Psaki said that currently the US is engaging with the Taliban who are overseeing and controlling Afghanistan to get the American citizens out of the war-torn nation. "We have not conveyed we're going to recognise it and nor are we rushing to recognition. There's a lot they have to do before that. What we are working to do is to engage with them because they oversee and control Afghanistan right now to get American citizens, legal permanent residents, Special Immigration Visa (SPV) applicants out of Afghanistan," the news agency quoted White House Press Secretary as saying.

Psaki asserted that the United States is watching the ongoing developments in Afghanistan. It's whether they let people depart the country who want to depart, whether they treat women across the country as they have committed to treat them and how they behave and operate. And, therefore, we're not moving toward recognition," she added.

The US ended its longest war after it withdrew its last troops from Afghanistan on August 30. This 20-year war has reportedly taken the lives of nearly 2,500 US troops and around 2,40,000 Afghans, and cost America some $2 trillion.

The Taliban announced an interim government on Tuesday and said Mullah Mohammed Hasan Akhund - an associate of the group's late founder, Mullah Omar - will be the acting prime minister, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar will be the deputy PM and Mullah Sirajuddin Haqqani, who is on a U.S. terrorism wanted list, will be the interior minister. No women or outsiders have been allotted any post in the government so far, Reuters reported. The Taliban had captured Kabul on August 15 leading to a total collapse of the Ashraf Ghani-led government.

(With agency inputs)

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